Piece of the Puzzle

Half Full Or Half Empty

2012-01-21T21:49:00.012-07:00

Is the glass half full?

Or is it half empty?

I don't recall when I first heard this or when it was explained to me that optimists are positive, while pessimists are negative. Optimists are praised as positive thinkers who see the best in situations while pessimists are regarded those who see the worst in a situation-the doom and gloom person. It isn't as if the optimist is right and the pessimist is wrong. Both are equally correct. What I'm proposing is that we do away with the positive/negative connotations regarding individuals and their respective perceptions. Let's embrace both views as perfectly accurate descriptions expressed on the basis of how God has hard-wired each of us.

Negative isn't always such a bad thing. The person who gets a negative report from his cancer biopsy is thrilled and happy. A positive report would be bad. It isn't as if the pessimist is wrong to say the glass is half empty and the optimists view is right. I'm not sure why so many people insist we all have a positive attitude towards everything.

The person who is hard-wired by God with the gift of encouragement, looks at the glass and sees it is half full. She merrily goes about enjoying her half full glass. The what-some-people-refer-to-as pessimistic person looks at his half empty glass realistically. Realizing it is half gone, rather than go about enjoying the last of his milk, goes to check in the refrigerator to make sure there is more. Seeing there isn't, he sets the last half of his glass in the refrigerator and runs to the grocery store for more milk. Blissfully ignorant, the optimist finishes her glass and knows everything will work out for good, as it always does.

I have more to say on the subject, but am woefully out of time. Today, as I look at this glass, I compare it to my life. In just 50 days, I will be celebrating my half-century birthday. Since I plan on living to be 100, my life is half over, or half begun. I'll take both.

Twins?

2012-01-15T19:59:00.001-07:00

I realize

that this is Sarabeth's dog...

But,

are these

not

two peas in a pod?

(same faces in each pic)

A New Year-Expect God To Surprise You

2012-01-09T14:48:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it is already January ~~4th~~ 9th, 2012. Two thousand Eleven, it seems, was a year of travel, moves, and visitors. I never realized our home has a revolving door, or that traveling could be so much fun.

I took 7 trips, including the around-the-world flight.

I had kids move away or move home 7 times.

Not counting the kids and their friends, I had houseguests on 9 separate occasions. We never had more than 11 here at one time. Large groups for dinner I lost count a long time ago.

Last year's theme could be summed up as Travel To Gather With Family.

I am looking forward to seeing what 2012 has in store. The theme this year: Expect God To Surprise You. I can't wait to see what God has planned. I'm looking forward to seeing where God takes each of my family members, our growth, stepping out into new territory, going deeper, and living out the Abundant Life.

December 29th, 2011

2011-12-29T22:01:00.000-07:00

Barely awake, eyes still closed, Michael whispered, "Are you awake sweetie?" I smiled answering, "not quite," to which he responded:

"Happy Anniversary." Startled, I struggled to open my stuck shut eyes. I could hardly believe it. Today is my anniversary? I, the romantic in our relationship, the one who has never forgotten an anniversary and works hard to make sure he doesn't ever forget, apparently DID forget. OMG!

Twenty-eight years ago we said "I do."

In fairness to me, a lot has happened this past week. We had a snow storm,

Michael's 58th birthday,

Christmas Eve,

a niece to share Christmas with us,

and an engagement...

yes an engagement!

Christina

& Danny

The cute couple

Congrats to Danny & Christina.

Happy Anniversary Michael.

The Christmas Story

2011-12-18T17:33:00.001-07:00

I can't remember the last time our church had a Children's Christmas Pageant. It might have been 1995. Christopher played a shepherd, Elisabeth was Moses. No, that isn't a mistake, she really did play Moses, white beard and all. (It would take too long to explain.)

This morning, I watched the children perform the Christmas Story. I was a little surprised to hear Mary and Joseph sing so off key. I cringed more than once. Who cast these children in the part as the Virgin Mary and her beloved Joseph, when it was clearly a musical part? I did realize, the chosen songs were very difficult. I was distracted.

I looked hard at each of the children, trying to figure out who they belonged to. Not a one of them was familiar. I thought back to when my kids performed. I recognized each and every child or at least the family they belonged to. The choir director's daughter sang the solos, my best friend's son was the one picking his nose.

Today was different. I felt removed from the children. These were elementary students. The parents might be young, like I was-early 30's or even late 20's. I didn't know a single one of them.

Joseph began screeching....I mean singing again. I wondered how old he was. Most likely he was 10 or so. Tears filled my eyes. These are Ethan's peers. He is nine. Under "normal" circumstances, Ethan could be a part of this performance.

What I wouldn't give to watch him play Joseph and hear him singing off-key. Oh to see him dressed as a shepherd, bringing gifts to the baby Jesus, or the angel who forgot her line. If Ethan lived here, and was a typical child, I'd know these children as Ethan's friends, the kids in the choir.

Instead, this song seems more appropriate:

Silent Night. Holy Night.

What I Did Today

2011-12-13T09:10:00.000-07:00

I awoke at 4:30 this morning. I could not get warm. My body hurt. My sinuses hurt. I must be running a fever. I struggled to fall back asleep. By 6:30 I crawled out of bed for Tylenol. Brrr...it was cold. I checked the thermostat, and even though it was set to 70, it was only 66 degrees. I went back to my bedroom; the thermostat read 56. I wasn't running a fever at all. The furnace was simply not doing its job.

My phone wasn't doing its job either. Or maybe it was the fault of the cell phone carrier. Either way, I was getting some text messages 2 hours after they were sent. One message asked what I was doing. At that moment I was waiting in the chiropractor's office. If I'd received it when it was sent, I was actually waiting in line at the post office.

Instead of getting together with Elisabeth, I chose to get my hair colored. I sent her a text: Jennifer is going to do my hair at 6. Jen is a family friend. Elisabeth & I sometimes get our hair done together. A few hours later, I notice a text from Elisabeth that said she was getting her hair done at 6 by Jen. I laughed. I started a text, "So did Jen schedule us for the same time so we could go together?" Then I realized I was reading messages from my outbox. My brain is not doing a great job today either.

I left dinner on the stove, before rushing out for my hair appointment. I was tired when I returned. In spite of my family sharing that dinner was delicious, I opted for a bag of popcorn instead. My teeth were none too happy, and my crown decided it was tired of doing its job. I swallowed the part that broke off. Guess tomorrow I'll make a dentist appointment. I hope he's doing his job better than my last dentist.

1st Christmas Wish List

2011-12-10T23:50:00.000-07:00

Michael asked me what I wanted for Christmas. He asked me if I could make a list. While listening to this Christmas song, I came up with an idea.

Music Soothes The Soul

2011-12-07T11:24:00.000-07:00

I love Christmas music! I have over 50 Christmas CD's and even more music downloaded. My favorites this year are two a cappella albums. One was playing this morning.

Hark! the herald angels sing,
Glory to the new born King,

Immediately my thoughts floated back to the last time I remember this sung A-capella. I blogged about it here. It was a Sunday afternoon. I stood in his hospital room. The melody reverberated up and down the hallway. None of us knew, that two days later, he would join the angels in heaven singing glory to the Prince of Peace & King of Kings. It's been almost two years since my father-in-law went on to glory.

Every time I hear this song, I'll remember that moment two days before his passing, when it sounded like angels singing just outside his hospital room.

An Airline Story

2011-12-06T08:11:00.006-07:00

I've said it before, but I must say it again, "I love Southwest Airlines." I don't mean to offend my sister, who works for another airline. I do intend to inform Frontier Airlines that I don't plan to fly on their animals any time soon. I'll explain how wonderful Southwest's customer service is, and how not-so wonderful theirs is. (Story to follow soon.)

Last Wednesday, my mother-in-law and I prepared to board our 5:45 p.m. flight. We were headed home to Denver after spending 8 days in Arizona for Thanksgiving and a wedding. When called to preboard, I grabbed my mother-in-law's carry-on bags in addition to mine and we walked towards check in. In passing the wheelchairs, she somehow caught her leg on a piece of exposed metal holding the foot rests. Before she even pulled her pant leg up, I knew her leg was bleeding.

My mother-in-law, Elizabeth, is 84 and on blood thinners. It doesn't take much to tear her skin. I immediately asked the attendant taking the boarding passes if there was a first aid kit somewhere and explained what happened. She said one of the flight attendants would have a bandage.

I assisted Elizabeth into the front row of our aircraft, and asked a flight attendant for help. It was obvious at this point, that she was bleeding quite a bit and needed more than a bandaid. The flight attendants were very kind, called paramedics, and did all they could to make us comfortable, in spite of a delay in the boarding process. Even the pilot came by to offer words of encouragement.

After wrapping her wound, the paramedics offered to take Elizabeth to the hospital. Just wanting to get home, she asked that she be allowed to remain on the plane. The boarding process resumed.

In spite of a nearly full flight, the seat between Elizabeth and I was left alone to allow her to elevate her leg. Once all of the passengers were finished boarding, our flight took off a few minutes late. Throughout the flight home, the flight attendants continued their compassion and helpful assistance.

At one point, Elizabeth became cold and began shaking. Darlene (or Darlena) one of the flight attendants offered her a cup of hot tea, but she couldn't find any decaffeinated. Darlene then looked through her own purse, retrieved a bag of peppermint tea, and graciously offered it.

The pilot landed the plane on time, in spite of the delay we caused. We arrived safely and were able to see a doctor close to home.

Employees of Southwest Airlines went above and beyond their normal duties with a cheerful attitude. This is a sign that they enjoy their jobs in a rewarding, positive work environment. Hats off to Southwest Airlines for making travel so pleasant.

"Treat others just as you want to be treated." Luke 6:31

Time Is Flying

2011-12-05T10:10:00.000-07:00

It's December. Really. Just in case you haven't noticed. Except for two poinsettia plants, my home is not adorned with Christmas loveliness. The boxes marked "Christmas" are tucked away. I haven't even pulled out the top box marked "First."

Today is the 5th of December and I have not opened the first box. The "First" box doesn't contain meaningful first memorabilia inside. No special ornaments to commemorate our first Christmas together, or the celebration of a baby's first Christmas. Nope. It is marked first so that when December 1st sneaks up on me, I know which box to pull out of storage. I have time for the rest, but this one needs to be opened by November 30th. It contains the Advent Calendar.

Filled with memories of excitement and anticipation, the Calendar is showing signs of age. The edges are tattered. The stitching on pockets are torn. One of the treasures went missing 3 years ago. It's a Christmas tree with pockets. Each day, a gift is pulled from a pocket and hung on the tree. I think about replacing it every year. Somehow, in the busyness of the season, it has never happened. Many times I imagined designing my own calendar with a Nativity scene to count down the days. I envisioned making one for each of my children to reduce the bickering of whose turn it was to do the calendar.

We had a system for regulating the calendar. The rule was: the first one out of bed earned the privilege of changing the calendar. December is a brutal month with kids. Evenings are filled with choir concerts, plays, parties, and other holiday activities that make for late nights and early mornings. The calendar was a wonderful motivation to get them out of bed, and ready for school. More than once I heard Sarabeth bribing Hilary, "if you get up right now, I'll let you do the calendar."

Occasionally I'd hear tiny feet, tip-toeing down the hall in the wee hours of the morning. Later when I'd get out of bed, I'd find each of them fast asleep. The moment their eyes opened, the thrill of victory enticed them from their bed. But the haze of sleepiness would draw them back under the covers.

One Saturday I walked by the girls' bedroom. I saw Elisabeth lying in bed. I was surprised. Don't all kids bounce out of bed on the weekends?

"Do you feel okay?" I whispered, trying not to wake her sisters. Raising her head slightly off the pillow, leaning closer, she whispered back, "Yes, but I wanted to let Hilary do the calendar today. I can't get out of bed yet." Hilary's competitive nature wouldn't allow herself to be handed a win. It must be earned. She had to actually beat her siblings out of bed, or somehow the thrill of the calendar wasn't the same.

I'm not sure if it was Christina or Christopher, but one (or maybe both) enjoyed being a trickster. After their younger sisters would go to bed, they'd often sneak in and switch the calendar. They'd chuckle smugly upon hearing their sisters argue over who cheated the first one out of bed. I finally wised up and would make the calendar right each night, before heading to bed.

So many memories....

I don't want to put up the Advent Calendar this year. Visions of sugarplums dancing aren't the thoughts frolicking in my head. Instead, I envision the calendar on December 24 empty; looking as if I have many days to left to shop before Christmas. No one, little or big, lives here counting down the days with stars in their eyes.

Maybe it is time to pass the calendar on to Ethan. Or maybe it's time to throw it away.

Twenty more days until Christmas.

Hebrews 12:1 Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us

Catching Up

2011-11-16T23:02:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is Grandparent's Day...at least it is at Ethan's school. I can't wait. Just wish it didn't mean I have to wake up earlier than usual.

Last Friday I went to the mountains for a Ladies Overnight Retreat, that turned into two nights. Am I blessed or what?

Last night, Michael's mom fell. I was in the kitchen and didn't hear her. Thankfully, she was able to call out and Michael heard her, but not for a few minutes. She bumped her head, and her arm, but is doing well. Kind of scary, and wondering how to prevent this from happening again.

Michael surprised me. We are the proud owners of new bedroom furniture. It looks like a completely different room. All that's left to do is paint the walls. Hoping to do that the first week of December (after I rip down the wallpaper that's adorned our walls for more than 20 years.) So exciting!

I hope to get back to regular blogging soon.

Injustice

2011-11-10T20:17:00.000-07:00

He was excited. He hadn't been swimming in weeks. His mom, a nursing student and single, was pretty busy with homework, clinicals, and caring for him. Going to the pool was a treat.

A couple of moms sat near the pool, while their kids played. Both were preoccupied. Maybe they'd had a difficult week too. Absorbed in their own little worlds, neither looked up as the children encircled the boy. They began laughing and splashing with all of their might.

The boy couldn't fight back. He couldn't turn or swim away. He couldn't yell or call for help. He gasped for air, unsure of how to make it stop. Engrossed in her Twilight book, the one mom didn't even look up when the boy's mom yelled. The other glanced briefly in the kids direction, but couldn't be distracted from the game, flashing and beeping on her phone.

What makes kids think it is okay to bully the one boy with disabilities? The only one who can't stand up for himself?

The boy longed for someone to play with him. He was desperate for a friend. He didn't understand that the kids didn't like him. He tried to join their game of water tag. Peering over to see if the boy's mom was watching, one of the kids turned his back to her, as he whispered taunts, teasing the boy for not being able to speak.

When I heard this story, I was angry. Where is the tolerance for those who are different???
How can these mothers allow such injustice? Ethan did not choose to be disabled. This isn't a lifestyle choice. He was born this way. Parents who are too busy to take the time to teach their children right from wrong have no business having children.

An Anniversary

2011-11-08T17:25:00.001-07:00

Today marks my parents fifty-third anniversary. Happy Anniversary Mom & Dad!

Have you ever wished you could have known your parents when they were younger? If you'd met them in high school, would you have been friends with them? If there was such a thing as time travel, we could all go back to the future.

It reminds me of a story my dad told after my grandmother died. He was dating my mom's best friend, and they decided to go to the beach. The three of them were sitting in the front seat of his car. Back then, most vehicles had bench seats and no seatbelts so you could pile quite a few people into them.

While they were driving, dad noticed a woman following them, and weaving a bit. She honked a couple of times and was wildly waving something out of her car window. My dad remarked, "there is a crazy lady following us."

Both girls in the car looked back to see what was going on and what this crazy lady was waving out of her window. My mom recognized her immediately, sinking a little lower in her seat. "You better pull over, it's my mom."

Grandma didn't want her little girl to forget her sack lunch for her day at the beach.

Changes

2011-10-28T11:24:00.001-06:00

It was 80 degrees on Monday when I attempted to capture Autumn's awesome splendor.

I don't recommend snapping photos while driving. As I was leaving the post office, I couldn't help myself.

At this time of year, it is easy to miss out on the changing colors.

The splendid array of red, yellow, and gold is short lived. The foliage quickly turns brown, and is transformed into glorious heaps of leaves, crunching beneath my feet. I resist the childish urge to throw myself into a pile of them.

As is often the case in Colorado, heavy, wet snow hastens the process.

By Wednesday, a blanket of white covered the landscape .

Beneath the weight

Of heavy branches,

Nature's colors disappeared.

So did our electricity.

Play Nice

2011-10-18T14:54:00.000-06:00

If you can't say something nice....then don't say anything at all.

I have nothing to say today.

Technology-deleted

2011-10-15T09:37:00.000-06:00

I spent the last 3 days working on this blog post. In one second, it disappeared. The automatic save button kicked in the second I hit the wrong key and saved...nothing. Ah, technology, my friend and foe.

It's Their Third

2011-10-10T10:04:00.000-06:00

Happy Anniversary Christopher & Lauren!

Meeting Camden

2011-10-05T16:53:00.002-06:00

Ethan met Camden on Saturday.

Ethan couldn't say Camden. Instead, he rocked the puppy back and forth saying "baby."

He was hugging and loving her so much, I took him to Good Times to get some lunch.

Mostly it was to give the poor puppy a break.

After ordering our food at the drive-though window, Ethan began pointing and saying something. It looked like he was pointing at this:

He then said "baby....dog....baby.....dog." I then remembered that Good Times used to make a spoonbender for dogs, or a pawbender.

It's frozen custard with peanutbutter sauce and dog bones. When we got to the window, I asked. Sure enough, they still carried them. When I handed it to Ethan to hold, and told him what it was, he high-fived his grandma as if to say, "way-to-go Gramma! You always know what I mean."

Camden LOVED Good Times as much as Ethan does. I'm not sure if she was cold or was merely over excited but she shook the entire time she was eating.

Ethan pointed to his chest, bending close to Camden and repeatedly said, "E...E...E" He wanted Camden to know that the only reason she was enjoying this treat was because "E" had ordered it for her.

I think she got the message that he really loves her.

Texting Tuesday

2011-10-04T13:08:00.000-06:00

Some messages encourage:
"Love U"
"Awesome thanks!"
"Omg best, spaghetti, Ever."
"Hey ma, how are you?"
"Thanks for the toaster oven."

Some discourage:
"Dad never called me."
"I think I might explode."

Some need courage:
"Yes pray for me that I have God's strength...I'm exhausted."
"Arg mom, so mad."
"Breakups are so hard."
"I'm missing a pair of jeans."
"Thanks. I've had some hard days but good ones too:)"

Some are cute:

Some are funny.
"What are you guys dating."
"Eating"
"Whoops."

Some are cute and funny:

Here are a few of my favorite text messages from this week:

"Can we meet for lunch today?"

"Mom, check your FB. You will be so proud of me."

"I'm going to be in Denver tonite. Just checking to see what you are doing."

The last one was from my sister. I got it this morning. I'm so excited.

Thinking Of You

2011-10-01T14:40:00.026-06:00

I thought of you today. Cruising down the highway, my hair blowing in the wind, I felt the warmth of the Colorado sun beaming down on me. I smiled.

It wasn't because it felt like a beautiful summer day, that I thought of you. You love Autumn's gentle breezes and cooler temperatures. I thrive in the heat of summer.

It wasn't the melodies I sang, as the tunes reverberated through my car. Although music soothes and satisfies the rhythms of my soul.

It was delight. It was pleasure. It was joy in my heart that I thought of you today.

Rich and full, I cannot imagine life without you.

God's creation is magnificent; His plan for family genius. Marriage is a wondrous relationship and I wouldn't want to experience it with anyone else.

Interesting Day

2011-09-29T08:47:00.000-06:00

Bright & early Tuesday, very early, the phone rang. The last time this happened was Thursday and Sarabeth called to say she'd been in an accident. I don't like phone calls when I am tucked so cozily in my bed, dreaming happy thoughts.

This phone call was urgent, but not scary. Ethan was sick and Christina had no one to watch him. She could not skip out on her clinicals. I said I would come, but at that moment I could not compute how long it would take me. The drive normally takes 1 hour and 5 minutes if all is well. If there is traffic or bad weather the leisurely drive becomes very long. This estimation does not include actually getting out of bed, and becoming coherent enough to get myself together. Five hours of sleep is not nearly enough for me.

Upon arriving, Ethan seemed to be doing quite well thanks to a dose of Tylenol. Unfortunately, it was the last of it, so I figured in a bit, we'd go to the store and buy some more. I told Ethan that we would go to Target and get him some more medicine, but I didn't no where the store was located. He immediately picked up a picture of a Transformer.

"Ttttt..." and he pointed to his chest, "E...e...e..." I understood.
"Ethan, grandma doesn't know where the Target store is. I will look it up on the internet and see if I can find one. IF I can find the store, and IF they have the Transformers Autobot Rachet, I will buy him for you."

I couldn't remember my daughters address, but was hoping the one I picked was the closest. It's hard to google directions without an address. When I tried with the street name, the directions claimed to take over an hour to get there. That couldn't be right. We got in the car and I hoped Ethan might know the way, haha.

At the end of his street, I thought I should turn right to get to the main road. "Ethan, which way do I turn to get to Target?" He immediately pointed to the left. He again repeated his plea for, "T...t...t" and I assured him we'd look for Transformers. We wound around a few roads, and at every turn, Ethan would sit up straighter in his seat and begin pointing.

One particular street was more like a highway, with the speed limit of 55. No stores were visible and as I drove along, I thought there was no way this could be the right way. We were headed to no-wheres-ville. Up over a hill, Ethan sat up, jabbered something and pointed. Sure enough, there was Target.

As I turned the car off, Ethan said something resembling "good job" and high-fived me. What an exciting day! We did find Autobot Rachet. I received another high-five.

I should have remembered the way home, but we came in on a one-way street. Just to make sure it wasn't a fluke, I started to turn back the way we came. I was immediately corrected with gestures and verbal cues. Ethan had to direct me back to his house. I was pretty excited about this. He fooled me into believing he doesn't pay such close attention to details.

Terrorism Drills

2011-09-23T15:18:00.000-06:00

Today in Denver, a terrorism-based emergency response exercise was executed. First responders from 100 different agencies tested residents with loud noises, simulated weapons, smoke, emergency and other actions. In addition, the area hospital emergency rooms were filled with mock patients.

These drills are important. It's encouraging to believe that in case of a disaster, our emergency personnel are well prepared.

The only downside to these drills, is if someone happens to have a real emergency. Or your daughter has an accident on the way to school and is taken by ambulance to the hospital. When that happens, a parent is not allowed to go back to see their injured child, as the ER is too busy with pretend emergencies The parent is left to wait 3 hours in the waiting room. No hugs, no reassuring words of comfort-only text messages.

It wasn't her fault. Traffic was stopped on the highway. The driver behind was not paying attention, or was on her cell phone, or....

Even though SB was stopped, her car was forced into another car. Thankfully, aside from bumps and bruises, and having to wear a neck brace, she is okay. Her car didn't fare as well.

911-The Weekend

2011-09-12T09:30:00.003-06:00

On Saturday, Ethan was here. After playing baseball, he busied himself driving his 16 cars and trucks across the kitchen floor.

After dinner, he was bothered. His grandpa had loaned the trailer out to a neighbor. Upon its return, Grandpa left the trailer parked out front. Ethan new full well that this is not where the trailer belongs.

He tried valiantly to attach the trailer to his go-cart,

and move it to the back of the house.

I laughed. He donned his grandpa's work gloves,

and climbed into the trailer

in an attempt to figure out

what was keeping it from moving.

He cranked the front up and down several times the way he's seen Grandpa do.

When it began getting dark,

he finally believed me when I told him Grandpa was waiting until morning to pull it around to the back.

I was surprised to see Michael attach the trailer to his mower, early the next morning, before Ethan was awake. It was probably just as well.

Something went wrong and the trailer landed in the ditch.

I was thankful that we didn't have to dial 911 & Ethan's grandpa had not ended up in the ditch underneath the trailer.

911

2011-09-11T16:22:00.000-06:00

Nine, One, One, three little numbers. Two of the 10 numbers found on a phone key pad. Before telephones, I don't think these digits held great significance, unless you happened to be born on 9/11 or had 911 dollars in your pocket.

In the late 1960's and early 70's, the numbers 911 became the official code for emergencies. Anywhere in the U.S., I can dial 911 on a telephone and have police, fire, or ambulance services dispatched to my location. Nine, one, one is synonymous with receiving emergency help.

In 2001, September 11 became a date forever etched in the hearts and minds of Americans. Many remember how the day started, probably typical of most days. It was a Tuesday. I know that because I began my morning at a 5:30 a.m. prayer meeting. I returned home by 6:45. I made breakfast, packed school lunches, and took my kids to school.

I came home and began cleaning the kitchen. I continued praying over pressing events from earlier in the morning. I mulled over the seemingly strange topics we'd prayed for in our early morning session. Sometime after 9, Michael turned the television on because he'd heard something on the internet about a catastrophic emergency developing in our country. The rest of the day is mostly a blur, with the exception of being glued to the t.v., and the terrible devastation shown over and over.

Recently, 911 took on a different kind of significance. Thankfully, nothing as monumental or fatefull as September 11, 2001. Christopher & Lauren moved to New Orleans in August. Their new home address: 911 Louisiana Lane (or something like that.) Hilary moved into an apartment near the college. Her apartment number is 911. Interesting that I have 2 of my kids calling home to 911.

Tomorrow I'll share how we spent 9/11/11.

Labor Day Weekend

2011-09-07T23:41:00.003-06:00

Labor Day weekend marks the end of summer.

The weather takes a nose dive around this time.

Last Thursday Michael went golfing. It was 99 degrees.

On Sunday we went boating. It was a balmy 72.

The boys fished.

Ethan loves fishing.

Men are serious about fishing.

Then some of the boys felt the need to jump in the cold water.

Someone said Ethan jumped.

I'm not sure I believe it.

I didn't post the photo

of the sheer terror on Ethan's face.

Sam couldn't let his manhood go unchallenged.

(Those were his words before jumping.)

Michael and Brian did not feel compelled to jump.

Notice the sweatshirt crowd

Sam caught a fish, but I didn't get a pic.

Feet dangled in the water

I told you it was cold.

The weather grew warmer

We enjoyed the ride.

For a moment, I thought I was back at the beach.

Ethan drove the boat.

"No grandpa, I've got it."

"No really, go sit down."

Ahoy!

A pirate-y ship

What?

You didn't see me on the boat?

I was there...

by the food,

where else did you think you'd find me?

Senior Moment

2011-08-31T20:00:00.001-06:00

My mom-in-law has been waiting for a phone call-for nearly two weeks. I began to wonder if her Dr. was out of town, excusing his tardiness for not calling back. She hates to go anywhere, for fear that he'll call the moment she walks out the door. (She didn't give him her cell phone number since "it's long distance.) Instead, she carries around the phone wherever she goes. Usually that is sitting on the front porch.

Yesterday Michael went outside to talk to her. He asked her why she had the t.v. remote with her. She looked at the table beside herself. Sure enough, there was the remote control to her television. No wonder she hadn't heard back from the doctor's office.

(Just in case you are wondering...no, I am not poking fun at my mother-in-law. I can't. We have a good relationship and can laugh at ourselves for having a senior moments. It happens to me all of the time. I run downstairs to get something. I find myself standing in the family room, racking my brain, trying to remember what I went down there for. I know the moment I go back up the stairs, I will reach the top remember what it is I wanted. Instead of going up, I wander to the kitchen, then the laundry room, even open the pantry or refrigerator hoping to jog my memory. It doesn't usually work, so I head back up the stairs. The moment I step off the tope one, I figure it out and back down I go.)

I Hate It When...

2011-08-30T14:47:00.000-06:00

I go to the gym,
Set my water bottle down,
Come back later,
Take a big swig,
And it tastes funny, kind of sweaty/salty.

I glance around,
A few feet away,
I see another water bottle,
Identical to mine.

Cough,
Choke,
Spit.

I look around.
I'm really not interested
In sharing my water bottle with anyone I see.

I wonder if the matching water bottle owner thinks I just drank from "his" water bottle.

Cycling

2011-08-29T16:18:00.001-06:00

Pro Cycling descended upon Colorado over the weekend.

The race rolled close to home,

giving us a glimpse of the crazies that come out,

and what a big event cycling is.

Look closely at the determination on the yellow shirt,

That is the look of a winner-Levi Leipheimer.

Go USA!

Birthdays and Catching Up

2011-08-27T12:42:00.000-06:00

I am so excited I can hardly stand it. I'm planning for my next birthday. It's going to be a doozy. I have 29 weeks or 203 days until the big day. That means 153 days until....well, you will just have to check back and see. I hope I don't disappoint myself. I've been known to do that.

Speaking of birthdays, I've missed a few this year. My lovely married-into-the-family daughter, Lauren, had her birthday recently.

She is everything we ever hoped and dreamed of for our son. Add to that she is the woman I prayed for, the little girl that I knew was out there waiting to become his lovely wife, his companion and partner for life. We adore her.

Speaking of adorable, Ethan had his birthday in July. I can't believe he is 9 years old. He is all boy, loves baseball,

motor vehicles,

and working on things.

He also has a very tender, sweet side.

He found a baby doll the other day.

He was fascinated and kept repeating "baby?"

Speaking of babies, my baby boy turned 27 in July.

In August, he and Lauren moved to New Orleans. Christopher started law school last week. He is smart, funny, thoughtful, responsible and fun. (He takes after his dad.)

Speaking of dads, mine has begun writing down stories from his past. It has been fascinating to hear about his early years. I've added a link in my sidebar. Dad's mother died before I was born and hearing stories makes me wish all the more that I could have met my grandmother. I'm told I look a lot like her. In fact, one day my dad was at my home and did a double-take. He said it was as if he was a boy again watching his mother cooking in the kitchen.

Speaking of kitchens...I have some cooking to do.

The Fun Grandma

2011-08-15T16:18:00.001-06:00

A Good Grandma lets her grandson spend the night.

A Fun Grandma stays up until 1:30 a.m. with her grandson when he spends the night. Then stays up another hour to unwind.

A Good Grandma gets up early the next morning so the two can have breakfast.

A Fun Grandma convinces her grandson he'd like to snuggle in grandma's bed for at least another hour as 5 hours is not nearly enough sleep. Then she makes him gluten free pancakes.

A Good Grandma watches her grandson play baseball.

A Fun Grandma plays baseball with her grandson, wears the obligatory cap when outfielding and helmet when pitching-even though it gives her hat hair.

A Good Grandma lets her grandson take a bubble bath in her big tub.

A Fun Grandma lets her grandson go fishing in her big tub.

A Good Grandma lets her grandson have mini Reese's Peanut Butter Cups after dinner.

A Fun Grandma helps her grandson eat a bag of mini Reese's Peanut Butter Cups after dinner, of course.

A Good Grandma lets her grandson help bake cookies.

A Fun Grandma lets her grandson wear an apron, take food orders, make drinks, and cut with sharp knives.

Let everything that has breath praise the Lord

2011-08-07T14:31:00.001-06:00

Praise God in his holy place.
Praise him in his mighty heavens.

Praise him for his mighty acts.
Praise him for his immense greatness.

Praise him with tambourines and dancing.

Praise him with sounds from horns.

Praise him with harps and lyres.

Praise him with stringed instruments and flutes.

Praise him with loud cymbals.

Praise him with crashing cymbals.

Let everything that breathes praise the Lord!

Hallelujah!

Randoms

2011-07-30T09:00:00.000-06:00

Massive mosquito bites make for miserable nights.
Calling customer service should create calm, not commotion.
Hot, humid weather has me hankering for the beach.

Highest Phone Bill Ever

2011-07-15T12:57:00.000-06:00

Our T-mobile phone bill arrived in the mail yesterday. It was 350 pages long, printed on both sides of the paper.

The grand total?

Yes, you read that correctly: $2,720.07

Apparently 3 weeks ago, when we bought SB her new phone, they changed our plan. Unlimited text messaging was inadvertently removed. We were charged 20 cents for each incoming and outgoing message.

Really? Did they think we wanted to pay two thousand, seven hundred & twenty dollars and seven cents instead of paying a monthly unlimited fee?

Summertime

2011-07-14T12:57:00.000-06:00

If Only I Had A Tripod

2011-07-06T11:41:00.000-06:00

Hope everyone had a Happy 4th of July. I sat in the sand, watching fireworks over the ocean. It was beautiful! One day I get a tripod to take pictures of fire in the sky.

No More Velcro

2011-06-25T22:56:00.003-06:00

I can hardly believe it. Twenty-two??? When did that happen?

What a year it has been!

Last June was your 21st birthday.

In the fall, amidst the vibrant colors, changes began.

January found us saying good-bye as you headed off to London.

Your semester abroad was filled with adventures and new friends.

You spent time in the ER & returned home to surgery,

As soon as you were well, you became CNA certified and are almost ready for more life experiences.

So proud of you. I'll bet those who thought the velcro would never lose its stickiness would be too.

(Sorry I forgot to hit publish on your birthday, and left this sitting unposted for so long.)

Relationships Are Tricky

2011-06-21T03:12:00.001-06:00

I confess, early on I took you for granted. It wasn't until the busyness of life began to crowd you out, that I realized how important you are. I began wishing I could spend more time with you. I thought about you more and more. I couldn't get enough of you. I longed for life to slow down, so we could spend bigger blocks of time together.

More recently, our time together is much more satisfying. I am completely refreshed by you. Why is it, when I'm most content, it becomes easy to put you off? I avoid you as much as possible so I can do things that I want to do, in spite of your gentle tugging. But I count on you to be there for me the minute I need you.

Tonight you let me down. The moment I felt you vying for my attention, I didn't ignore you. I turned off the computer, shut out the lights, and gave you my undivided attention. I've missed you!

What happened to your peaceful presence? I thought since we've had so little time together, my generosity tonight would yield an extra hour or two with you.

Oh sleep...I'm so sorry that I've kept you waiting. Please come back to me. I really do need you. Don't let me down now.

Just Three More Days

2011-06-15T14:45:00.001-06:00

Christopher and Lauren will be home on Saturday.

Their two plus years of teaching in South Korea is at its conclusion.

While I'm busy thinking of the first meal we'll share together, the first hug, the first family get together,

on the other side of the world, they are are drinking in their lasts.

Their daily walk to school will end.

They'll take their final Subway in Seoul.

One last time they'll eat Korean kimchi,

and shop at a local market.

They'll say good-bye to friends who've become like family.

When Christopher and Lauren departed for their teaching adventure, it wasn't without a bit of sadness. But they left home knowing they would return.

This leaving is different. Most likely they will never see the children again.

A final, wistful good-bye to their school

and friends,

their apartment, and life as they now know it.

They may even miss their very private mailbox.

Maybe not.

There is no promise that they'll have the opportunity to walk the streets of Seoul and experience its culture.

The week I spent in Korea, I fell in love with the people. In that brief moment in time, the city of Seoul captured my soul.

So while everyone here is excited for their return, Christopher and Lauren are most likely leaving with mixed emotions-uncertainty of ever being in this corner of the world again.

Nevertheless, they will remain forever connected to this place. Their hearts were woven into the fabric of life in Seoul, South Korea.

The investments they made in the lives of the children will be everlasting.

This was their home.

Flowers, a little late

2011-06-12T11:18:00.000-06:00

Just as parents are kind to their children,
the LORD is kind to all who worship him,
because he knows we are made of dust.

We humans are like grass or wild flowers that quickly bloom.
But a scorching wind blows, and they quickly wither to be forever forgotten.

The LORD is always kind to those who worship him,
and he keeps his promises to their descendants
who faithfully obey him.

My Trip

2011-06-09T00:04:00.054-06:00

When I read about the Virtuous Woman, I think of my mom. She's successful at all she puts her hand to and works diligently at it. She's smart, clever, and creative. She's always busy, but never stressed and hurried.

Growing up, I knew there was nothing my mom couldn't do.

A good woman is hard to find, and worth far more than diamonds.

Way back when I was in third grade, it was common to go home for lunch. One day, after walking home I mentioned to my mom that it was my day to share a science experiment with the class. This was back before take-home folders and when making 25 copies of notes was more arduous than hand-written ones. So kids were just supposed to remember these things-which apparently I didn't.

Mom didn't flip out on me. Not only did she make lunch for me and my siblings, but she helped me come up with a cool, fun science project. We played in talcum powder and water and I knew I had the smartest mom in the whole world. She could have been angry, but she wasn't.

Yesterday was Mom's Birthday.

As soon as the cake was set in front of her, she magically turned 17 again. (Yes, she did switch those candles.)

This is my dad and mom, me and my 2 sisters and 2 nieces.

I flew to Phx. to celebrate Mom's birthday with her. This is my wonderful sister-in-law and brother who always let me stay at their house and play with their girls.

Happy Birthday Mom!

I'm On Vacation

2011-06-08T14:36:00.000-06:00

Did I mention I'm on vacation?

In the Arizona Desert

Watching my nieces & nephews swim

I left my family at home to fend for themselves. They are fending quite nicely. Wondering if I will have a job when I get back.

You Capture-Games

2011-06-02T23:53:00.001-06:00

I took these pics through the chain link fence.

Grandpa giving E his water bottle.

Safe!

Oh The Things Kids Say

2011-05-31T10:50:00.002-06:00

I phoned my brother the other day. His 8 year old daughter answered the phone. We chatted for 23 minutes. I have no idea where my brother was, I never talked to him. I do know where my sister-in-law was. Oh the tales a talkative kid can tell.

To be fair, I did ask about her first trip to Disneyland. Her favorite thing was Space Mountain, no Thunder Mountain was more fun. TinkerBell has a secret home and a secret friend. Leah also told me that getting her ears pierced didn't hurt, but Tara cried. Nobody noticed her pretty pink earrings but Gramma. Tara was banned from the computer because she didn't clean up her messes, but she got to use the computer today. Only Tara didn't really clean up, she just sat in her room coloring in her color book.

I could hear Tara in the background during most of the conversation, but not her daddy. Leah's daddy was taking them swimming, even though the water might be cold. That was when she told me her mommy wasn't home. And the reason she wasn't home? Because her daddy cheated on her mommy.

I about died laughing. If I didn't have 5 kids, who'd also been little once, I might have been shocked. But I knew there was a logical reason for her to say this. I knew her daddy hadn't actually "cheated" on her mommy. I know my brother better than that.

I probably shouldn't have, but I couldn't help but mention it to my sister-in-law when I talked to her the next day. I'm not sure she found it as funny as I did.

I sometimes wonder what secret things Ethan would say if he could.

Change

2011-05-26T17:05:00.000-06:00

Who thought it would be so hard? Or so exciting and exhilarating? I like the variety change brings in my life. I don't like the adjustments that come with change.

Take technology, it is always changing, evolving into something "better." (At least that is the claim by Techies.) How amazed we all were when cell phones first emerged. I loved having a phone available for use on trips in case of an emergency. I got used to carrying a phone with me everywhere I went, so I was accessible in case someone needed me. Then I enjoyed the freedom of text messages, taking pictures, internet access. But with each new phone, I experience operator frustration. I can't figure out how to adjust the volume, add new numbers, or how to use the latest feature. Once I am comfortable with the new gadget, I don't ever want to change again. That is, until something better comes along, or the old one is dropped in the toilet.

I change to the new, but complain when life doesn't function exactly as before. I long for the old, the comfortable, what once seemed easy. The new might be better, but I struggle. What once took a moment, now takes twice as long because I haven't learned or figured out the new. It is cumbersome. I wonder if I made a mistake in opting for better. Was the old one really that bad? I become more agitated when I don't get a choice, like when blogger makes changes that I didn't ask for. I struggle to upload or format photos that used to be a piece of cake. I curse those in charge. (Not really, but I'm sure some do.)

I read in the bible how God chose Moses to bring deliverance to the Children of Israel. They were slaves. After several setbacks, they were miraculously set free and dined on supernatural provisions. Yet it wasn't long before they complained and desired to be back in Egypt, back to their slavery. I never understood how that could happen. Why would anyone want to go back to their days of hardship? Why wouldn't they embrace the new?

I think I understand now. I don't like to be pushed out of my comfort zone, not even for something better. I murmur and complain in much the same way the Children of Israel did. Slavery was more comfortable than having to learn a new way of life.

I don't want to hold on to the old, when the new offers promise for a better future, and greater achievements. Change comes with a price, but sometimes I'm not sure I want to pay it. Whether it's a new job, moving to a new city, or a changed relationship, it requires effort. I'm pushed out of lazy mode into careful deliberation, and struggle through learning the new.

I think this is exactly why God prompts change. When we aren't willing to accept change, it sometimes feels like the rug is pulled out from underneath us. When everything remains the same, it is easy to remain comfortable, to be lazy and quit putting for effort. We become selfish and self-centered. We don't take think about the world around us. In a life of ease, we can manage without God. We forget to depend on Him and choose to just go about our business. It's usually not to exciting or thrilling, but it's easy. Change is hard, but pushing through frees us from our lazy self and offers greater potential, more promise and opportunity.

Randoms

2011-05-18T09:34:00.000-06:00

Random Thoughts in list form
1. We moved Hilary out of her dorm in just 2 trips to the car.

2. Grocery shopping is more fun when George Strait sings in the background.

3. My family laughed at me last night. I made bacon, eggs, pancakes, & hash browns. Michael commented that he asks for this all of the time and wonders why I don't make it more often. I denied this, stating emphatically that he has never asked me to make breakfast food for dinner. When my brain feels foggy, I do ask if he has any ideas for dinner. He occasionally "suggests" bacon & eggs. I don't classify that as "asking" me to make this for dinner. His response was something like:

"Really? You thought I'd suggest something I didn't want to eat??? Do I ever suggest that you make brussel sprouts or macaroni & cheese? Hahahaha....." Go ahead and laugh, family, but it makes total sense to me.

Just for clarification, I honestly believed he was suggesting bacon and eggs as an easy-to-fix meal, not necessarily because he "wanted" that to eat. I cook things all of the time that I wouldn't necessarily choose to eat mainly because someone else likes it or because it is an easy-to-cook meal.

4. Ethan loves baseball.

5. I should be very careful uploading baseball photos to Ethan's Ipad. He knows instantly when his videos have been deleted and has an instant meltdown, locking himself in the bathroom, in spite of me telling him "Grandma will fix it!"

6. We finally celebrated Christina's big birthday.

7. The birthday dinner with the Men in Black (backwards hats.)

These Are The Rules

2011-05-09T01:03:00.001-06:00

For those of you who haven't had the chance to play baseball with Ethan, let me share the rules with you.

1. The pitcher must mimic a professional, complete with leg lift, when throwing the ball.

2. The batter must wear a helmet.

3. If at all possible, a catcher and or umpire should squat behind the batter. Before the pitcher may pitch, the catcher must pull his imaginary face mask over his face. Notice the last picture...Ethan is demonstrating how he plays baseball with only his stuffed animals as players. Mr. Dinosaur is the ump, and the dog is the dog catcher.

4. When the batter hits the ball, he is required to run randomly. One of the other players must catch the ball and tag the batter. Helmets and hats must be exchanged, so the players can switch positions.

I nearly died laughing when I saw how well Ethan's little "friends" played by his rules.

The pitcher has the glove on and is ready to throw.

The batter has on the helmet and is ready to hit.

He swings, he runs, he scores! Time to switch positions.

The pitcher is ready.

Helmet on, the batter is ready.

The pitch is thrown.

The batter strikes out!

Happy Day!

2011-05-08T15:21:00.001-06:00

I ran across this pic the other day. In this photo, my mom is the same age as I am now. I mean, like exactly 9 weeks after her 49th birthday this was taken. I had my 49th birthday 9 weeks ago today. Why does she look so much younger?

By the time she was my age, Mom had raised 4 children to adulthood, had 8 grandchildren, went back to school, earned her degree and became a teacher. While working full time, she also received her Master Degree, volunteered her time and talents, spent two years out-of-the-country teaching abroad...and the list goes on. Twenty-two years later she is as busy as ever.

Jesus tells a parable in Matthew 25 about the Kingdom of God. He says it is like a man who travels to a far away country, leaving talents with his servants. To one he gives 5, another 2, another 1. My mom is one of God's servants who received many talents. God knew He could trust her to use those talents and multiply them.

Not only does she serve in her church and community, but she has always gone above and beyond as a mom and grandmother. She has always treated us as individuals, considering our own unique personalities, gifts and talents. I marvel that even at age 70, she gives weekly art lessons to one of her 7 year old granddaughter. Four of her grandsons have lived with her and Dad, including my own son during his last year of college. She richly gives and invest her time in the lives of others.

Even stray animals seem to find their way to her home, knowing she will feed them and care for them. Her compassion naturally extends to animals too.

My mom is truly multi-talented. Her creative, generous spirit is a reflection of the Father. I can't wait to see what God gives Mom to do when she gets to heaven. "His lord said, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord."

I love you Mom! Happy Mother's Day.

When I Am Old

2011-05-06T21:09:00.000-06:00

When I am old, first thing in the morning, I'll slip on a pair of high heeled shoes. Even when I'm wearing a silky night gown, just like my grandma did.

When I am old, I will enjoy a fresh cup of strong coffee with real cream and sugar. Grandma drank her coffee weak. It smelled delicious but looked more like tea rather than the rich, smooth brew I will drink.

When I am old, I want to look pretty. I will fix my hair every day, even if nobody cares. I'll change the color and style often, just to keep life interesting. I'll wear nothing but fancy clothes, even if I have no place to go.

When I'm old, I will drive a great big Cadillac. Or maybe I'll still own my little yellow car. Either way, I will drive a bright color vehicle-no silver, or gray or white for me. I remember my grandma drove a big car, like she owned the freeway.

I'm not sure about hobbies, but when I am old, I will be on a mission. I'll be part of the church ladies and stay busy. I'll blog about more important things than the weather. Grandma never had a chance to blog or use the internet. I'll bet she would have loved it.

I Need More Kids

2011-05-03T10:41:00.000-06:00

I sometimes laugh as I hear mothers discuss the trials of teaching their children to become independent and responsible. Tales and threats of forcing a kid to walk to school after missing the bus, having to take a lower grade for forgotten homework, or letting junior go hungry when he forgets his lunch. Are they truly motivated by the lofty ideal in parenting or are they merely annoyed at the inconvenience of childishness, taking the easy way out?

Whenever the call came saying my child forgot his lunch, a book report, gym shorts, or whatever... or I received a text asking "can you bring 2 dozen cupcakes to my 6th hour class" or "please call the school and tell them I'm sick," "I have cramps, can you come get me?" as a good, in line for the mother-of-the-year award mom, I immediately dropped everything and ran to help my child.

It didn't matter that the baby needed a nap, that a load of clothes would be forgotten in the washing machine until the next day, that the floor needed to be vacuumed, that I had errands to run, or that we were out of milk and I needed to go grocery shopping. It never mattered what the immediate need of the child was, it was always way more important than whatever I was doing at that moment. Was I annoyed at the inconvenience or agitated at the irresponsibility of their forgetfulness?

Are you kidding me? I delighted in every single interruption. Hopping in the car and driving 20 minutes to school each way was way more fun than laundry. Not only did the days scenery change, but I often had the chance to chat with another adult in the school office about "these forgetful kids."

I guess that makes me guilty for taking the easy way out. I was selfish and rescued my kids by delivering their homework to them. Other moms hated me. They totally didn't get it. They heard stories of how I would sometimes deliver a hot lunch to my kid, handing it off as they walked into the cafeteria-usually fast food from the local burger joint with fries to share. Other moms didn't know that I purposely had not made lunches that morning so I had an excuse to grab a burger for myself.

I had an excuse as to why I couldn't do lots of unpleasant tasks. I didn't have time to make phone calls for the PTA, because I needed my phone free in case one of kids needed me. I never had time to iron clothes, as I was barely able to keep up with the 3 loads of laundry I washed each day. When the call came, laundry could wait. Ironing could always wait.

Gosh, I miss those days.

Lists

2011-04-28T09:38:00.000-06:00

Do I make lists? No! I despise lists. I do not enjoy being able to check off things I've done. I get no satisfaction seeing all of the little check marks. I hate lists. I suspect, my husband, rather likes lists. Michael puts sticky notes all over his computer so he knows what needs to be done and when. He is charmed by his organizational skills. Years ago, he saw his wife was a bit overwhelmed. He imagined how wonderful it would be if he could make her life easier by helping her become organized.

In our kitchen hung a whiteboard. It stood above our corded phone, making it simple to jot down phone messages. It was highly visible. One morning, before leaving for work, Michael created a to-do list for me. What a darling. He mentioned that as each task was completed, I could simply erase it from the marker board. How accomplished would I feel at the end of the day, when the board was wiped clean?

This went on for several days. Each day, the list grew, as hubby joyously added to it. Occasionally and very reluctantly, I would wipe off a line or two. Every evening, upon returning home, Michael would inspect the board. By the third or forth day, he casually remarked, "Your board is getting full. What did you do today? I see you didn't get that phone call made or my shirts ironed. Some of these things have been on there since the first day." The man clearly had not noticed the furor brewing beneath the surface.

"Of course I got those things done!" I snapped. "You wrote them on the board, didn't you????" Still clueless, he continued with his questions.

"Then why didn't you erase them?" He was becoming dangerously close to me unleashing a torrent of hostility, but I held back.

"I was just a little bit busy with ironing, making phone calls, cooking breakfast, lunch, and dinner, changing diapers, and taking care of the kids to come back in here to erase this stupid board." I didn't actually use the word stupid, but I did enunciate every word crisply and sharply to get my point across.

"But wouldn't it be easier to see what you still had left to do if you erased the tasks you've already done? That way nothing will get lost in the middle of the list."

I honestly don't remember what else was said that night. The poor man had no idea how much I hate lists. But suffice it to say, he has never suggested I make a to-do list He knows without a doubt that I find no satisfaction in crossing off all I accomplish in a day-especially when the list is written by someone else.

Thoughts Of A Child Part 2

2011-04-26T20:35:00.000-06:00

(Two years ago, I started this series but never finished it. The first part is here.)

The family sat down to eat dinner. "Daddy, can I read my book to you? It's my homework so I have to read it to someone."

"Sure, sweetie. After dinner." He turned to Melanie. "How was your day?"

"Busy, but great. We finished up at church and are ready for Easter." She contemplated asking her husband why he was late getting home, but decided not to press him.

"I had a bear of a day today," Bill volunteered. "On the way home, I got pulled over. I was doing twelve over...a lousy 12 miles over the speed limit and she gave me a ticket. I was doing 67 in a 55. The ticket is a hundred and twenty-six dollars. One hundred and twenty-six lousy dollars!!! Can you believe it?"

Madison interrupted, "is a hundred dollars a lot, Daddy? That's a lot of money, huh." Bill had almost forgot the children were listening.

"Yes, it is a lot of money. But I have to pay it. That's what happens when you do something you shouldn't do. Daddy broke the law, and now I have to pay." It wasn't really what he wanted to say. He wanted to say, "what the @&$#$? This isn't fair, I didn't realize it was a 55. Others were zipping past and they didn't get stopped." But he didn't. He kept is cool for the sake of his children.

Zach jumped into the conversation. "Dad, you got a ticket from a girl?"

"Yes, son. It was a female police officer." He winked at Zach.

"Daddy, that lady policeman was a mean lady."

Before Madison could go any further, Bill turned to his wife. He was exhausted and didn't want to think about the ticket or his arduous day. He wanted to relax.

"So, is your sister coming over Sunday? And what are we having for Easter dinner?"

"Yes, Nancy and the kids will be here. I had planned to have ham, but the grocery store had lamb on sale. So I bought a leg of lamb." As soon as the words slipped out, Melanie knew what was coming. Her eyes immediately scanned the face of her daughter. Just as she thought. Madison's eyes filled with tears and her face was sad. Melanie wondered how she could help her little girl make sense of this. She almost wished they lived on a farm. Maybe if they butchered their own animals or lived back in the days of Laura Ingalls Wilder this wouldn't be so hard. Hunting and killing animals would be an every day occurrence of survival.

You Capture Spring

2011-04-21T10:03:00.000-06:00

My tulips finally opened up!

This poor guy couldn't figure out how to get out of the fence.

Baseball

Not For The Faint Of Heart

2011-04-20T16:37:00.000-06:00

I so want to post the pictures of Sarabeth's dermoid cyst. Actually she and I were very curious to know what was inside. The surgeon did his best to not open it up, but saved that for the pathologist. The color photos he gave us of the cyst, I have posted elsewhere for anyone who would like to see. Let me know, and I'll give you the link. Or I suppose I could post it here and let those who care to click on it do so at their own risk.

A Big Day

2011-04-19T08:45:00.004-06:00

This is Sarabeth and I at Charing Cross in London.

This is the on the walk from our hotel to her home.

Today we will be at the hospital. She's having that pesky cyst taken care of. The surgery is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. I will try to update at the bottom of this post to let you all know how she is doing. Thanks for your prayers. God is good!

11:07 a.m.-They just took her back to start. Will take between 20 minutes and an hour and a half.

1:00 p.m. In recovery. Went well, just waiting to see her. We won't be able to see her until she gets to her room.

2:45 p.m. In the room with Sarabeth. She did great. Depending on how she does, she may be able to come home sometime tomorrow.

Chag Sameach Pesach

2011-04-18T19:25:00.000-06:00

The next day a great multitude that had come to the feast, when they heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, took branches of palm trees and went out to meet Him, and cried out:
      “ Hosanna!
      ‘ Blessed is He who comes in the name of the LORD!’
      The King of Israel!” (John 12:12-13)

What transpired between this verse, and a few days later when the crowd could be heard shouting,
      “Crucify Him! Then Pilate said to them, 'Why, what evil has He done?'
       But they cried out all the more, “Crucify Him!”

Jesus had performed great miracles for the people, even raising Lazarus from the dead prior to the shouting of Hosannas. The multitudes were shouting and proclaiming Jesus as their King. Within a very short period of time, they called for his death.

I don't mean to diminish the importance of the life of Jesus, but I can't help but think of fair-weather friends. When the Denver Football Team goes into the play-offs and the Super Bowl becomes a reality, everyone becomes a fan. The town turns Blue & Orange. The praises of the Denver Broncos are shouted everywhere. If they should win the big game, parades and great pomp and circumstance takes place. More often than not, they experience a loss and a great number of people who previously spoke glowingly of their winsome now hurl nothing but insults. No fanfare, no parades, no orange and blue face painting.

In fairness to Jesus, the religious leaders of the time were behind the scenes trying to discredit him and incite the people against him. I wonder how many people had been touched by Jesus, healed, saw the miracles, eaten bread with the 5000, and yet turned their back on him? In the end, even those closest to Jesus, his 12 disciples, & closest friends, did not stand up for him. When Jesus faced his darkest hours and asked them to pray, none stayed awake for even an hour. Of course, had they known what was about to come, quite possibly they would have stayed awake and prayed? It's hard to know.

But I have to ask myself, am I a fair-weather friend of Jesus? When life is good, His miracles and blessings are evident and I'm found shouting Hosanna!

Do I run to Him when trouble comes, pouring out my woes, but don't take the time to listen to what is on His heart? Do I hear Him when He asks, "Will you watch with me one hour?" Am I so close to His heart that I understand how important that time of watching and praying is, even if I don't understand or don't know what lies ahead?

Friday Frowns Upsidedown

2011-04-15T10:36:00.000-06:00

Five Reasons To Smile:
1. I went with Sarabeth to sign her surgical papers. She was asked if she would be willing to participate in a Clinical Trial. All she needed to do was donate 8 small vials of blood and she received $100. What college student doesn't need extra cash?

2. Hearing that Ethan phoned last night. Even though I missed the call, as I was out grocery shopping, he did get to talk to his grandpa. That's really who he wants to talk to anyway. It has been awhile since he has called to say good-night. Probably haven't talked to him on the phone since before our trip in March.

3. Getting a random apology from Christopher. He thought he and his siblings had been inconsiderate way back when they were "total punk kids." My kids were NEVER punk kids. But how thoughtful of him.

4. Getting together with a friend for lunch today. I haven't seen her in 3 years. I can't wait to catch up with her. How long can we hang out and still call it lunch?

5. Getting this text message: Dear Mom. I cannot even begin to explain how much I appreciate all the nice things you do for me. You really get me through hard times and make me so thankful for who I am. I love you so much. I couldn't ask for a better mom. Hilary (If I find out someone stole her phone, and sent me that message, I will still be smiling.)

Attitude of Gratitude

2011-04-13T05:51:00.000-06:00

In the busy of every day life, I often take things for granted. Big stuff, little stuff, even important stuff becomes an automatic expectation. An expectation that I believe will always be there, will always remain the same, forgetting that in a moment of time, it could all be taken away.

I expect the grass to turn green in the Spring, and brown in the Winter. Sometimes, I expect my husband to know how much I appreciate him. I forget to thank him and express my gratitude to him for his sense of humor and the security I carry with me each day knowing that he would do anything for me.

Each morning, without a thought, I place my confidence & trust upon him. He thoughtfully carries their full weight squarely upon his shoulders.

Today, I want to thank my love. I want to remind him how much I appreciate him, even though I don't express it very often.

The Miracle Diet

2011-04-12T09:47:00.000-06:00

The past few years, I've noticed symptoms of aging (gasp!). Rather than the typical, "I'd like to lose a few pounds" my thoughts lean more towards, "I just want to be healthy." As much as I hate to admit it, losing weight would most likely make me a healthier.

Back in November, I went in for my annual doctor visit. She didn't chide me for not losing weight, but seemed pleased that I hadn't gained from the previous year. She wasn't as happy with the bloodwork results. My total cholesterol had jumped up to 254. They (whoever the powers may be) prefer it to be between 100-199.

Once before my cholesterol hit 229 and the cardiologist gave me a prescription for cholesterol-lowering medication. Instead of taking it, I lost 22 lbs. in 3 months. When I went back in, he was very pleased. Having had success before with weight loss=lower cholesterol, I made a plea to the new Dr. I suggested she give me 3 months to lose weight and change my numbers. If this lifestyle changed didn't result in more pleasing numbers, I'd consider meds. She agreed. She even let me slide through the holidays and told me not to have my blood drawn again until the end of March.

I'm not sure what happened in January and February, but instead of losing, I actually gained weight. I'm blaming that on a lot of things. As most of you know, we traveled in March, and we ate out EVERY SINGLE MEAL. Sixteen glorious days of eating out.

Upon my return home, my doctor had left 4 messages on my phone, reminding me that I was due to have my blood drawn. I cringed and felt like the biggest loser. Dutifully, I went in and waited for her dreaded phone call. Early the next morning she called.

"Your blood work came back normal, both your lipids and liver function." I couldn't believe it! I asked her to send me a copy of the results. I needed to see them in black and white. My total cholesterol had dropped nearly 60 points. Unbelievable!

I think it must have been the Kimchi I ate, no less than 10 times on our trip. I think I'm going to incorporate it into our diet. It is a miracle food.

(This restaurant was rather steamy.)

Secret Obsession

2011-04-10T08:52:00.000-06:00

I have a confession to make. First I must say, when I traveled to Korea, I didn't have a lot of expectations-mostly because I just didn't know what to expect. I knew the culture would be foreign to me, so I went with an open mind. I was told to be prepared for having my personal invaded, that bubble around me where most of us Westerners prefer to live.

What I hadn't expected to see in downtown Seoul, was men in black. Black suits that were expertly tailored to fit perfectly to each man. Shiny, polished black shoes that make a certain sound as the heel taps the floor.

I love a man in a suit, with shiny shoes. There, I said it. I can't explain why, but oh how I loved walking through a sea of men wearing custom fitted suits, & looking down at their fresh, shined shoes. It was hard to keep from pointing my camera everywhere and snapping away. Even though I didn't think they'd notice, I tried to be polite. Unfortunately, I never did capture the moment.

I do believe this obsession comes from my dad. No, he doesn't love a man in a suit. But Dad wore a uniform, & I don't believe I ever caught a glimpse of his shoes when they didn't gleam. As a little girl, I loved watching him polish his boots.

About once a week, in the evening, I'd see Dad collect his boots, set out the black leather shoe polish, a cloth, and his soft, buffing brush. He'd dab a bit of the black cream onto the shoe and begin gently rubbing it into the leather. There's something manly & rugged about the scent of shoe polish and seeing the care he took to keep his boots looking new.

Sometimes he would use the time to shine his belt with the tiny loops that held his bullets. It was usually at the same time he'd take apart his gun and clean & polish it too. Seeing the care he took instilled a healthy respect for both man and gun.

In the morning, as he'd kiss me good-bye, I beamed with pride. I can still hear the sound of his boots, see the crease in his perfectly, pressed pants, and see the shine of his shoes as he walked out the door. As a little girl, it left me feeling all was right with the world. Dad was in control. He could handle anything.

Maybe that is why I felt so happy & comfortable in downtown Seoul.

What To Do...

2011-04-07T16:01:00.005-06:00

Standing in my kitchen last night, contemplating what to cook for dinner, everything in me wanted to run. Part of the feeling stems from the fact that I still don't have a working refrigerator. The rest of me wanted to run down the block, enter the subway station, and board a train.

I missed Seoul.

I missed the food.

I missed meeting Christopher and Lauren for dinner.

Having spent so much time in London, it felt like I should be able to walk out my front door, round the corner,

to wait for a double-decker bus with Sarabeth and get a bite to eat at a local pub.

I miss the city, but as I write, Sarabeth is in a plane somewhere over the ocean, headed for home.

I resisted the urge to run, and instead rustled up something for dinner. Having a second 'fridge downstairs (thankfully), I must have stepped up and down those stairs 50 times. Each time I did, I imagined I was headed to the subway or underground. Walking back up, I envisioned myself emerging from Picadilly Station

or in the middle of downtown Seoul.

Maybe, just maybe, the reason my eyes itch and water as the grass turns green, my nose runs and I sneeze as soon as the trees bloom, and I cough with congestion as the weeds grow wild making it difficult to breathe is all just God attempt at letting me know, I belong in the City.

In my heart is a city girl fighting to get out of the country.

Dancing In The Rain Of Life

2011-04-07T12:15:00.001-06:00

Thirty

2011-04-05T16:04:00.002-06:00

Thirty years ago, at 5:04 p.m., I became a mom to the most beautiful baby.

Eight years ago, she became mom to my 1st grandson.

Happy Birthday Christina, just as beautiful as the day you were born!

Wish we could spend the day together.

Blessed Part 2

2011-04-04T12:45:00.000-06:00

Ten years ago I never would have guessed my velcro-baby, Sarabeth would venture off alone to spend a semester living in England.

Daily walks through hundreds of years of her British Heritage,

mingling in the culture,

including Camden Town.

drinking in the experience of afternoon tea,

and sipping cider in the pub.

Navigating the Tube,

or Underground,

whatever name you prefer,

double-decker buses,

crazy drivers

and bus schedules,

she got lost and used it as a time of learning and adventure,

accepting it as part of the journey.

Courageously, she braved the public health care system

Endured the pain and uncertainty of a medical emergency,

Triumphantly overcame all obstacles.

Forever changed, my little girl grew more confident, determined; embracing whatever came her way,

and walked gracefully through to the other side.

Love you Sarabeth! Thanks for sharing London with us.

Blessed Part 1

2011-04-02T10:56:00.000-06:00

Ten years ago, I didn't imagine my son married & living abroad. I certainly would not have believed Michael and I would fly around the world to visit Christopher and Lauren in Seoul, then meet up with our daughter in London.

It's been fun to journey with them via pictures, email & regular video chats. But I can't quite put into words what it was like to literally live in their ~~worlds~~ countries for a week & share their every day living experiences.

The rich cultural immersion was so much more than if we'd merely taken a tour.

Michael and I are so very blessed.

Christopher and Lauren sacrificed their bed, sleeping on the floor in their tiny, studio apartment so we could spend more time together.

One of the highlights of the week was spending an afternoon at their school. We saw their classrooms & interacted with the children.

One boy named Mike wanted to know who we were, exclaiming that Michael looked just like Santa Claus. I thought it was the beard, since I never saw any of the Korean men with facial hair.

Mike said it was the glasses too. Michael wondered if there were any other outstanding features the boy might have associated with the jolly old elf.

We met their principal, who is a gem, and couldn't stop telling us how proud we should be of these two. We couldn't agree more.

It was hard to say good-bye, but we were off to see Sarabeth. We left content; having witnessed seeds that were planted so many years ago through prayer, now in full bloom.

Rooted in love & commitment, honor & intergrity, their depth & growth of character was splendidly displayed.

Why Do They Have To Die?

2011-03-30T07:50:00.004-06:00

Thank-you Brian
and Elisabeth!
I'm so grateful you are observant, and noticed the water leaking on the hardwood floor, while we were out-of-the country.

That at midnight, you spent 2 hours rescuing the food from our dying refrigerator. My goodness, what would we do without you? (Hilary would say, "if anything happens, turn off the water," lol.)

Changing Of The Guard

2011-03-28T21:45:00.001-06:00

Standing outside Buckingham Palace (with the Bobbys)

to watch the changing of the guards.

Does this look like a serious weapon or what?

I was hoping to see the red coats, but it was still awesome!

Never A Dull Moment

2011-03-26T15:02:00.003-06:00

Sarabeth and I headed down to the Picadilly Circus. I have a photo hanging on my wall of this train station from 10 years ago. The photo was taken of Christina and her cousin when they came to London with my parents.

I was tired and decided not to take my nice camera. Instead, I tossed my point and shoot in my purse and off we went. Boy did I miss a great photo op!

Not sure if you can get the full detail, but when we arrived at the top of the stairs, we were met by chants, beating drums and a mass of people. Police were everywhere. We decided to go back down to the Tube. We should have known. Sarabeth's house parents warned us of going to the West stations for safety reasons, due to the protests.

Being on vacation, I haven't kept up on the latest news.

We passed a group of policemen on their way up.

We tried to manuever our way through town, but at one point, we heard sirens and saw 3 helicopters hovering overhead. Three police vans were lined up.

The police had donned their riot gear-shields and batons.

I would have felt a lot safer if the police carried guns.

British Museum and the London Dungeon

2011-03-24T15:27:00.007-06:00

London is magnificent! It is has been so fun to share the experience with Sarabeth and see where her home has been these past few months.

For those who are wondering, aside from a cold virus, she is doing well right now. Looks like she will be able to wait until April to have surgery and our time here won't be spent using the British Health Care System. That makes my heart very glad.

Yesterday we ventured out to the British Museum.

Fascinating place. I enjoyed seeing the stone carvings from places like Ninevah and Egypt that were from 700 BC.

Truly incredible, the stories etched in rock in massive pieces.

Outside the museum, was a street vendor. I had to try the cornish ice cream.

As Michael described it, a cross between ice cream and whipped cream.

Later in the day, we visited the London Dungeon, where we shared in the horrors of British past. Jack-the-Ripper, Sweeney Todd, The Great Fire of London, Bloody Mary and the likes.

I only wish we could have brought our camera inside. After the tour, I took this pic of Sarabeth:

For Ghost Hunter fans, I took this picture right before the last one.

What's with the red mist?

Lastly, a terrifying capture:

London

2011-03-23T12:04:00.002-06:00

What is London without a photo shoot in a red phone booth?

This was at the Picadilly Station.

Big Ben

I love seeing the sculptures

and architecture of both old and new.

Flying

2011-03-22T01:02:00.006-06:00

Time flies when you are having fun. We are having a grand time in turbo speed. When traveling so much happens in a short amount of space, there isn't time to blog much. Trying to keep a written journal to catch up later.

Busan has an interesting bit of history. Michael's dad spoke of it as a place he spent time during the Korean War.

We found these photos of what the area looked like in 1950-1953.

We so wished we could share these with Grandpa, knowing they most likely would spark stories from that time.

This last one, the top shows the area back then and the bottom the current look of the same location.

It was especially poignant watching this older gentleman browse the locks of love. He seemed to be searching, as he picked through them, turning them to read what was written. He was alone, and I couldn't help but wonder if sometime in years past, he and his lover had penned their forever loved and locked it onto the fence.

We also visited an instrument museum, which was fascinating.

As you can see,

Christopher was the grand master at playing instruments.

A 10 second video

and one more:

A Few Photos

2011-03-20T02:34:00.007-06:00

Just returned from Busan on the KTX. Pretty impressive to ride a train going 300 km/hr., or roughly 180 mph.

I realized a little late, at the fish market, that I had my camera on manual focus, but didn't attempt to focus, so he claritity is lacking.

After browsing through so many live and dead fish,

we opted for something else for dinner....

pizza hut,

at the mall,

And watched a show in the middle of the mall.

Will share more later, and this is just a random photo where we were obviously a little nervous about what we were eating.

And the kids.

Happy Birthday Hilary!!!

2011-03-18T17:51:00.000-06:00

My baby is 19 today. One more year, and the teen years will officially end. For both of us. I guess we'll have to start acting like grown ups soon.

I love everything about you, Hilary-how beautiful you are both inside and out,

your silliness,

your loving care with Ethan,

forever finding ways to keep us entertained.

You aren't afraid of challenges,

and love making us laugh.

You inspire others to be there best,

and never forget to laugh.

How did we get such a wonderful daughter?

Our family just wouldn't be the same without you.

Happy Birthday Hilary, wish we were with you!

Signs That You Are In Korea

2011-03-16T01:30:00.007-06:00

You know you are in Korea when:
you have Bulgogi Bimbob for lunch

Nights look like this:

You see buildings and people everywhere

You share the streets with cars,

Your blog has mysterious Korean characters showing at the top:

Home looks like this:

And you get to spend time with Lauren & Christopher

And Derek too!

Happy Birthday To Me!

2011-03-14T01:10:00.003-06:00

Wow, what a long flight it was from San Francisco to Seoul. We were served 3 meals. I'm trying to take lots of pictures. At the moment, this was the best birthday photo. After traveling for 24 hours, with no sleep, I looked rather spent in. Prior to our trip, I slept for about an hour and a half after a very busy day. I needed way more sleep than I did in my previous post.

Off to take a nap. Here's one more of the birthday in Christopher and Lauren's lovely studio apartment where we are staying. They are giving up their bed to sleep on the floor. Is that amazing or what?

I Need Sleep

2011-03-11T22:14:00.002-07:00

Tick tock, tick tock, counting down of the clock. In less than 5 hours, I have to wake up. I am supposed to board a plane that will take me halfway around the world. It doesn't seem real or even possible, but ready or not, here I come.

I feel like I'm forgetting so many things, leaving too many things unfinished. Five minutes into the flight, I most likely will remember what all I've forgotten. It feels uneasy.

I almost started to cry in the store tonight. Even though I am so very excited to see my kids in 2 countries, an overwhelming sadness of the ones I'm leaving behind hit me. What if we never come home? What if....I think the 4 1/2 hours of sleep I had last night is catching up to me.

I'm also uneasy about leaving someone else in my kitchen. This is where I am most at home. It's like letting someone else wear your shoes and socks. It is just weird. Especially since there is no time for her to get acclimated to.....well, to my way of doing things. I was serious when I told you I was a food nazi. Very serious. Ask any of my family members. It's one thing to let others help out in my kitchen, it's something completely different letting them have full control. And I won't be there! It makes me scared.

I'm off to dreamland, the short version. Tomorrow is the real deal.

Hi, My Name Is Joanne. I'm A...

2011-03-10T07:50:00.000-07:00

I'm a food nazi. I shamelessly admit it. Truthfully, I was a little ashamed last week. I hurt someone's feelings. I'm becoming more and more proficient in offending others, while protecting my gf food. I've done it 3 times in the past week-that I'm aware of. So I confess, I'm a food nazi. I will always be a food nazi.

When it comes to avoiding wheat gluten, I am over the top careful. Too frequently, Elisabeth gets sick from accidental ingestion of wheat gluten. Or barley. Or oats. Or Rye. She tries not to make it an issue. She doesn't want to be "one of those people" who constantly complains how easily cross-contamination happens or how sick she gets. She doesn't it to be an imposition on her friends and family, or make them uncomfortable. She doesn't want to trouble them. So I do it for her, happily. Sometimes it embarrasses her.

What does a food nazi look like? Let's just say, I view wheat gluten and her cohorts as the enemy. I do everything I can to keep them out of my home and away from my kitchen. So far, that has not been possible. When I see toast crumbs in the butter, or on the counter, I tend to freak out. I border on OCD.

When making a sandwich on wicked wheat bread, you commit a grand faux pas if you stick your knife in the mayo, spread it on a slice, then dip it back in the jar. You have just contaminated an entire jar of mayonnaise . If I didn't see it happen, and I use that mayo to make salad dressing, I inadvertently introduce gluten into what I believe is a gluten free meal. I am left wondering what made my daughter so sick, when I was so careful.

Sometimes it is preferable for others to NOT try to prepare gluten free food. When Sarabeth arrived in London, her new family knew she couldn't eat gluten. They very carefully prepared a soup recipe that they believed was gluten free. Before serving their lovely stew, a decision was made to thicken the soup. What ingredient was used? Flour. Good ol' gluten-stuffed wheat flour. So their careful attempt at making gluten free soup was sabotaged.

At Thanksgiving, one of Sarabeth's friends painstakingly attempted a gluten free dinner. She took Sarabeth shopping and had her oversee the preparations to make sure she had lots of gluten free food Sarabeth could eat. Gluten free turkey, stuffing, pie crust...she even thickened her gravy with cornstarch instead of flour. Right before serving the dinner, the host grabbed a dinner roll and dipped it into the gravy to taste for seasonings. And with that quick dunk, she contaminated the gravy with gluten, making it inedible for Sarabeth.

Unlike most 12 step programs, I'm not here to change. I feel it's my job to bring an awareness to others-and force them to change, when necessary. Believe me, it's necessary.

I'm Done

2011-03-08T09:37:00.001-07:00

I was reading PW's blog regarding grammar and the use of "done" and "finished." She explained:

"it was drilled into me time and time again that while both 'done' and 'finished' meant 'brought to completion or accomplished,' DONE was used to describe things. FINISHED was used to describe people.

This is an overly simplified description of the rule, but in general, this is how I always understood it:

Correct: I am finally finished with my homework.
Incorrect: I am finally done with my homework."

PW wondered if this was an antiquated rule of grammar. I find it interesting that I've never heard of this rule. Not that this doesn't mean anything, it's just that I've been around longer than most. (Based on the fact that I'm older than the median age-way older.)

At the end of a day, I often say, "I'm done." While some would laugh and say, "Cakes are done, people are finished," I think I'm correct in this usage when I say "I'm done." As in, "Lord, if you don't take me out of the fire now, I'm gonna be burnt to a crisp. I'm done already."

Which makes me think of Jesus' last words on the cross, "It is finished." (That is, if he'd spoken in English.) I'm glad he said His task was truly finished, as opposed to "I'm done. Get me out of here."

Some Just Naturally Give

2011-03-05T20:25:00.005-07:00

I was on the phone to my sister, Laurie. We had nearly 2 hours of catching up to do. While we were chatting, my nephew was busy evesdropping. Every few minutes he'd interject into our conversation until finally my sister asked, "will you just talk to Paul?"

Paul got on the phone. I inquired about school and asked how he enjoyed the cruise with his broken arm. After a few minutes, my sister got back on the phone. Paul went back to talking in the background.

"Hey mom! Has Aunt Joanne ever gone on a cruise?"
"No, Paul. She hasn't."
"Mom, we should take her on a cruise. Don't you think Aunt Joanne would like to go on a cruise?"

I hear my sister laugh.

"Yes, Paul. If we bought Aunt Joanne a ticket to go on a cruise, I'm sure she would absolutely love it. Now can you please go to bed so I can talk to my sister?"

I laughed too. My nephew has a heart of gold.

When Paul was 2, I stayed at my sister's home so I could meet his new baby brother. Laurie had some serious magnetic locks on everything in her house. Paul was a little houdini. The first day there, my sister was busy with the baby, and Paul wanted a drink. I filled his sippy cup with juice. He grinned and said, "Tank you."

Later in the day, after his dad came home, we were visiting in the living room. I watched Paul wander into the kitchen. A few minutes later, he appeared in the doorway. His chubby little hands were wrapped tightly around a glass of water. Somehow he had managed to climb up onto the counter, get a glass from the cupboard, and fill it halfway with water. He toddled in my direction, sloshing a bit of water with each step. I jumped out of the chair, to rescue both the glass and save him from completely soaking his shirt. He looked very pleased with himself as I took the cup.

His dad scolded him for climbing on the counter. But I looked beyond his disobedience. I saw a little boy with a generous spirit. This tall-for-his age two year old stood as a gentle giant: kind, thoughtful, & selfless. He was returning my earlier favor by offering me a refreshing drink.

Before going to bed, he needed a pull-up. Laurie was again busy with the baby, so Paul helped me find the diapers. I got a big hug before he went to bed. Early the next morning, I heard little footsteps upstairs. In hopes that I could be helpful to my sister, I hopped in the shower, so I'd be ready for the day. Within a few minutes, I heard tapping on the door. I poked my head out of the shower, "who is it?" No answer. I finished as fast as I could, knowing Paul must be waiting on the other side of the door.

Knock, knock, knock...I turned the shower off and quickly grabbed a towel. The tapping continued and then I heard a little voice, "open de door." I could tell his lips were pressed against the crack on the ground, where the floor and the door didn't quite meet. "Open de door, Aunt Doanne, open de door." His voice was urgent. Not quite dry, I pulled my clothes on and opened the door.

There stood Paul with his arms raised.

"Here you go." To my amazement, Paul held his gift up for me. Clutched in his hands was a pair underwear. My big girl panties that he must have found after foraying through my suitcase.

"Why thank-you Paul!" If I'd known of his generous offering, I wouldn't have bothered to dress so quickly. I could have opened the door wearing a towel and accepted his gift more readily. I hoped I didn't disappoint him since I was already dressed. I would never want to discourage this big-hearted boy.

I really should let Paul take me on that cruise. Afterall, it would encourage his kindness and give him great satisfaction.

The Countdown Begins

2011-03-02T19:13:00.002-07:00

I was thinking of doing a 2 week countdown to our trip, or at least a 10 day one. This morning I decided to figure out what day I needed to start. Well, that would be a week ago. Or at the very least 2 days back. I now have 7 days, 17 hours, and 17 minutes until the plane takes off with me in it. (And at this moment those numbers really are the exact. I did NOT make them up.)

What this really means is: I won't be losing 15 lbs. before my departure. Which really means: I have nothing to pack, nothing to wear. Oh my word! How exciting this trip is going to be, it really and truly means I can take an almost empty suitcase and come back with lots of souvenirs. Either that or I'll be wearing the same two outfits the entire time I'm there-or going naked.

I am not going naked...not one single day. Aren't you glad to hear that?

Thank-you all who took my bathtub poll. Your answers confirmed my own thoughts on the subject. Consequently, I won't be having a bathroom remodel while I'm out of the country. Come on, nobody does that. Oh yes they do! My neighbors had a wall torn out, their kitchen completely remodeled, a bathroom, and I can't remember what else. While the destruction/construction was taking place, they spent 6 weeks in Australia. I kid you not. They came home to a completed house. How cool would that be?

I couldn't afford to do both anyway. But I can dream.

Speaking of dreams, I have a dream. In my dream, nobody is sick. I don't wake up to 4 urgent phone messages/texts or emails needing me to call/text/skype ASAP. I won't hear about an early morning ER visit from the dorm kid. Instead I'll hear all is well, she had a wonderful night studying, then sleeping, and getting an amazing grade on her test.

I won't hear that my Londoner needs surgery and wonder if it can wait until she gets home or if it will be done in a foreign country with a national health care system. Instead I will hear of her travels to Ireland & Scotland. I will meet up with her in a few weeks and see the sights with her, without worrying about things like surgery.

In my dream, there are no coughs or doctor visits that might prevent my mother-in-law from traveling. No fever, severe pain or trips to the emergency room because nobody can figure out what is causing it. Both Elisabeth's will wake up and forget what it feels like to be sick instead of not being able to remember a day when all was well.

If my dream goes well, we'll meet up with our Korean couple kids, and try new foods and hear them tell about their decisions about coming home.

I have not heard from my grandson or daughter this week. Not once. I sure hope that means not only that all is well, but that life is grand and good.

It's A Birthday

2011-02-23T09:42:00.007-07:00

When I was 24, I became pregnant with my 3rd child. I had an instant connection with my unborn baby. I was my mom's third child. My mom was also my grandmother's third child. Being third is superb!

I like to believe the number 3 is special. (This is my mom, me, my dad, Christopher, Elisabeth & Christina. Dad is my age in this photo. See how white his hair is? Imagine me just the same.)

My number 3 child turns a magical age today.

She is 24-the same age I was when she arrived into this world.

Happy Birthday Elisabeth!

I Feel Like A New Person

2011-02-22T10:35:00.005-07:00

I just took a shower! I know, it isn't usually something to celebrate, just one of those things you do whether you feel like it or not. Today it was heavenly-my first shower in 4 days. I know what you are thinking...WHAT? This is the same person who tells us she washes her hair EVERY SINGLE DAY and spends loads of time messing with it.

Last Thursday I spent 3 hours in the shower. The water was not running. I scraped every little bit of caulking from the seams and edges. I used 3 different tools, 3 cleaning products during those 3 hours. I think it was a record. I then waited 3 days for it to completely dry out before asking the man of the house to recaulk it. I asked him to please try to find the very best mold and mildew resistant caulking on the market. When he responded with, "they have caulking that resists mold?" I knew why I'd spent 3 long hours with blood, sweat, and tears.

In the meantime, I took glorious soaks in the bathtub. I'd forgotten how wonderful my skin feels submerged in silky softness. Memories of childhood danced in my head. I thought of my days as a young mom, when I only dreamed of a few moments of bathing in privacy. I would have given up anything to lounge leisurely in this lap of luxury.

On Saturday, my bath was quick. Ethan was here. I had quite a workout washing and rinsing my hair in the tub. That was the day I remembered the harried times of mothering young children and bathing as fast as humanly possible. It made me wonder...was Jesus ever able to bathe in private once he began his public ministry?

Can you just imagine him sneaking off to the river to bathe, only to find hoards of people following him? His job as a "mom" was way harder than any mom I know. He had so many children, always wanting something, demanding, pleading, begging. He had to steal away just to find time to pray, I can only presume how difficult it must have been to find a moment of private for daily things like go to the bathroom.

Gosh my life is easy.

All of this to say, would you buy a home that didn't have a bathtub? Why or why not? I've put a poll up in my sidebar and would love to hear your thoughts. Yes you. Thanks!

Monday Morning

2011-02-21T08:15:00.000-07:00

Did anyone notice? A couple of posts back, I mentioned I felt like a million bucks ? I was having a good hair day. I complain a LOT about my hair, and when it looks nice, I often say nothing. Would it seem like bragging if I proclaimed, "I look fabulous today?" The more humble approach would be: "I'm having a GREAT hair day." Either way, I really should say it more often.

Growing up, back before it was stated in such terms, I rarely had a good hair day. I do remember the terms, "Day 1" and "Day 2" girls being thrown around. In case you missed it, a Day 1 girl was one whose hair tended to be oily. Her hair looked best the first day it was washed. (Nobody but nobody washed their hair every day.) A Day 2 girl had dry hair that reacted strongly to shampoo, straining every direction in search of moisture. By the second or even third day, it would finally calm down a bit-just in time to wash it again.

I had incredibly curly hair. It was during the 70's and afros were big then. Very big! I think the real reason for their popularity is because products didn't exist that could tame or smooth tight curls. It was easier to go with the natural bend of hair. The bigger the better, the more the merrier. The only problem was my blonde hair and light skin didn't fit in with the rest of my afro sporting friends.

Nevermind. I forgot, there were a few of us that stood out.

He Said That?

2011-02-17T20:48:00.004-07:00

I was talking to my son a few weeks ago. In case you don't recall, he & his wife are teachers in Seoul, Korea. The children are very interested in the daily life of their Western Teachers. One of the third graders had an important question for Christopher.

Student: "Teacher, how long have you been married?"
Christopher: "Two and a half years."
Student: "Why no baby? It only takes 1 year after you are married, then you have
to have a baby."

Christopher had to stop and think about this one. Before he could answer, the student continued, "you don't want to be a father?"

Christopher: "Not today little one, not today."

Interesting

2011-02-15T15:33:00.002-07:00

It was a beautiful, sunny day in Colorado. It's days like this, I dream up any excuse to run to the store-just so I can drive my car. I don't like shopping at Whole Foods much, but they carry items other grocers don't. It was the perfect place to stop while out on a leisurely drive.

I didn't get too far through the produce department, when an older woman approached me.

"It's amazing we can get eat at all, with the prices so high." I turned and smiled. Before I could respond, she pushed her cart closer.

"The few things I buy, I want to eat them up as soon as I get home. I get so hungry shopping. Then I don't have any left." She looked me up and down, as if sizing me up, then continued, "You'd think we'd all lose weight-but I can see that we don't." Ouch. I believe I was included in that comment.

"And look at tsyou!" I was beginning to feel a wee bit self conscious. "Tsyou are dressed like it was summer." Her thick accent caused me to wonder if she was from Jersey. "You know, it is steell winter. That is how you get the flu. It may be nice now, but in a couple of hours, it will be cold. You will see." I could only nod.

"Now look at me," she said, pointing to her black wool coat, and then to her bright orange sweater. "You see these?" She asked, tugging at the fabric of her fleece pants. "I stayed up late last night making them from an old piece of fabric I had laying around." Her black pants didn't look new, and had quite a bit of cat hair entwined in the material.

"I just did a little of this, and a bit of that." As I examined her clothing, I noticed the tangerine colored sweater was hand knit. I remarked how beautiful it was." She smiled.

"I made it myself, and this too." She pointed to what looked like a daffodil yellow silk blouse, peeking out at her neckline. "You know, the clothes these days, aiya, they are so cheap and thin." I noticed her look me up and down again. Although my top was a bright coral color, it could certainly be considered flimsy. It is one I usually pull on in the morning, when I'm working around the house. Normally I change before going out, but today I didn't. I had my hair cut and colored last night and in spite of my flimsy shirt, I felt like a million bucks. Funny how a good hair day can do that.

"Oh, and let me show you something else." She took off her hat, which wasn't quite the orange of her sweater, more of a cantaloupe color. She turned the hat over to reveal the inside. I looked, but wasn't sure what I was supposed to see. It was tannish and tattered looking. "You see? It is a beret. But I painted it." I realized the beige areas were merely the former color where the paint hadn't reached. The paint had caused the hat to be stiff, but it fit well upon her head, like a perfectly puffed beret.

She ran her fingers through her white hair, trying to smooth it down. "I quit coloring my hair because I look good in white hair, don't you think?" She set the beret atop her head. "People are always asking me what I do with my time. I am creating fashion...clothing out of nothing, beautiful clothing and fashion...if only I could market..." Her voice trailed off as if she was deep in thought. My guess is she often wondered how she could make money from her fashions-from- nothing, but hadn't come up with the means yet.

"And thiz jacket, it used to have a zipper. But I could not close it anymore, so I took it out. And you know those long coats, this was like that, so I just shortened it. And see how good it fits?"

She bent down to show me her shoes. I'd never seen anything quite like them. They looked a bit like sneakers on 4 inch platforms. "Theze had none of this," motioning to the laced area,"I painted all of thiz." I told her she was certainly doing an amazing job of transforming things into unique, one-of-a-kind fashion pieces.

"Yes, yes," and with that, she began pushing her cart down the aisle, "I'll be seeing you." She waved. I wasn't sure what to think of this little lady. I went back to my shopping.

A few aisles later, I heard her talking to the man at the meat counter. I busied myself reading labels. A moment later, she passed me. Her mouth was full. "You just missed it. Some tasty meat samples back there." She kept walking. It was then that I began to wonder. Whole foods usually has lots of samples throughout the store. This little lady most likely counts this as a meal, devouring every sample she can get. Her way of supplementing her food budget. She certainly was resourceful. I couldn't help but wondered what had drawn her to speak to me. Besides my foolishness of not dressing properly, I think it was the the bright shirt, and stylin' hair. I didn't fit in with the usual crunchy granola clientele of the Natural Grocer.

The More Things Change, The More They Stay The Same

2011-02-11T08:48:00.001-07:00

Is it Friday already? How does that happen? It's Sunday, I blink. It's Wednesday, then Friday. I think back to when I was in elementary school. Gosh the days were long. They ran into weeks and months. The school year seemed endless and summer so far away.

I remember being 5 years old. Kindergarten. My very first teacher, Mrs. Preston was old, very old. It wasn't because I was so little either. Her face was adorned with soft wrinkles and creases formed at the edges of her mouth, when she smiled. Silver strands of hair were pulled back tightly, to form a perfectly round bun. Mrs. Preston would walk up and down the rows of desks, inspecting each child's work-usually a picture or drawing. Peering up at her through thick spectacles, her eyes seemed enormous, yet gentle. I knew my teacher must be a hundred years old.

My favorite part of the day was snack time. I don't really remember a snack, but I do recall bringing a nickel every day to purchase a carton of milk to drink. We stood in two straight lines, boys in one, girls in the other. We'd wait for the school janitor to come and open the milk machine. He was a large man who wore drab brown pants and a a shirt just as plain. Attached to his belt, he had the biggest set of keys I'd ever seen. He jingled when he walked down the long concrete corridors. The coins in his pocket clinked too.

I didn't usually see him as he twisted and turned the keys, but I could hear them. I did my best to follow the rule of standing perfectly still in a straight line. Being the second to the shortest in my class, only Doug was shorter, I could only see the back of the head in front of me. It was almost always a girl with long, silky hair-unlike my own that was short and curly.

The door would clank open and out wafted the scent of wet, cardboard milk cartons. I loved that smell. After handing over my nickel, I was given a red container of whole milk and a paper straw. I carried my straw carefully. If it was bumped or bent, it stayed pinched, making it nearly impossible to suck milk through it. Mrs. Preston did not allow for wastefulness. I was afraid to ask for a second one, if the first was ruined. I only did twice, when I'd received a defective one. On the occasions where I'd been careless, I did not. Instead, I'd push my straw as far down into the milk as it would go, tip the carton and suck as hard and fast as I could. It would have been improper and too crude to pick up the carton and drink from it.

I loved nearly everything about school that first year, even the very long walk home. There was only one exception-being picked to be the sunshine. Each morning, after saying the Pledge Of Allegiance, we sang 2 songs. The first was almost always a patriotic song. Then came Good Morning Sunshine. Before singing Mrs. Preston picked a child to stand in front of the class. She'd place a bright yellow sun, cut from construction paper, around the child's face. I was very shy and never, ever wanted to be the shining star, as every child stared and sang, "Good Morning little sunshine, how are you today..."

Each day I silently pray, "please God, let her pick someone else, don't let her see me," and I'd stare at the ground until she called a child's name. Most days, my prayer was answered. A few times God must not have heard me. As soon as the ring of paper was around my face, I could feel the warmth. I knew my face must be glowing red, as it felt on fire. I tried hard not to see the faces as the singing grew louder. The song seemed to last forever and before it was over, hot tears stung my eyes.

A moment that lasted a lifetime. And now a lifetime seems but a moment ago. I have flashbacks of those moments in Kindergarten where I sweat profusely. Nobody sings the Good Morning Little Sunshine Song, and others call them hot flashes, but the burning feels the same. Next year, I'll be 5 again, followed by a big round circle. I'll pretend it's the yellow sun and wear it for all to see.

Tuesday Truths

2011-02-08T15:36:00.006-07:00

Ah, I needed an excuse to blog. So here it is: Ten Truths, but one is a Lie
(Answer at the end.)

1. One of my daughter's surprised me this week with this:

2. I want to get my belly button pierced.

3. I love temporary tatoos.

4. Another daughter surprised me with this a week ago:

5. I don't have a single tatoo.

6. I love temporary peircings.

7. I've wanted a tatoo since I was 16.

8. I had my ears double pierced, but it was so painful, I let the second holes close up.

9. Belly button piercing hurts, according to the one in the above photo.

10. I'm wearing red boots.

Christopher was right. I have NEVER wanted my belly pierced, not even once.

And these are my red boots. (Even though they look brown here.)

Lose Those Extra Pounds

2011-02-02T09:14:00.003-07:00

With the national debt and out-of-control government spending sky-rocketing every day, I wonder how much money is wasted on research. I read an article today declaring, "Getting tonsils out tied to kids' weight gain." This research was gathered from 9 different studies spanning a 40 year period.

Scientists aren't sure why this happens, but believe that this surgery might be contributing to childhood obesity.

Really? The article reports a couple of theories as to why children have a greater-than-expected weight gain following a tonsillectomy. I have my own theory, not mentioned in the report.

Is it possible, that most-or at least the majority of children getting their tonsils out were sick a lot? When children are sick, have fevers/infection, and a painful, swollen throat, most likely they are not eating as much as they would when healthy. The weight gain is most likely a normal catching up from being ill.

Recently, my mother-in-law asked me about my favorite comfort food. I wasn't sure exactly what she meant. She mentioned that when her children were under the weather, she cooked them soft boiled eggs. She associates soft boiled eggs as especially comforting when her stomach is off.

I tried to remember if my mom prepared special food for me, when I was sick. I couldn't think of anything. I didn't get sick much. When I was sick, eating was the last thing on my mind. Quite possibly, my body needed a break from the digestion process in order to expend its energy attacking the invading germs. The best healing came not from comfort food, but from fasting.

I really shouldn't knock this kind of research. I should embrace their theory that states, "when children have enlarged tonsils, they're spending more energy (calories) to breathe. Once they're removed, breathing is easier and uses less calories." Weight gain would then ensue.

I had my tonsils out when I was 15.

That is the real reason I am overweight.

I wonder if I can get the government to fund a study to test this theory. Does expending more energy on breathing cause weight loss? I could begin running, or exercising, forcing me to gasp for air. I might lose weight. And I'd have asthma to thank for shedding those pounds.

If They Could Just Stay Little

2011-01-31T18:52:00.003-07:00

I wish I had little kids. The news announced that tomorrow will be a snow day. I loved the glee & excitement a snow day produced on the faces of my children. Squeals of delight, laughter, and celebration always followed the "snow day" announcement. Typically, the kids had to wait until 6:00 a.m. to know whether or not they had a day off of school. Today, they announced it early for tomorrow. It wasn't because of anticipated snow as much as the subzero temperatures.

But I didn't get to experience the fun of sharing this exciting news with anyone. Instead, I get a text message from the college Hilary attends with the following:

"CSUPD is investigating an unspecified and currently unsubstantiated general threat to campus. As a precaution, please be vigilant when on campus today and report anything or anyone suspicious to CSUPD immediately by calling 911." 9:00a.m.

At 1:00 p.m., "CSUPD continues to work with the FBI to determine the validity of the threat made to campus earlier today. Law enforcement officials do not believe there is a present or imminent threat to campus at this time. However, CSUPD and the Public Safety Team remind you to always be vigilant about your surroundings and report anything suspicious by calling 911."

I used to think it was fun, watching my kids get older. I'm not so sure anymore.

Blessed

2011-01-30T10:03:00.002-07:00

Blessed be the Lord,

Who daily loads us with benefits,

The God of our salvation!

Selah

Busy Day

2011-01-27T12:44:00.004-07:00

I didn't realize I could move so fast in the morning. It's been awhile since I had to jump out of bed and be on my game. Guess who spent the night?

His trucks were stacked neatly.

He had a bubble bath in Gramma's tub.

Before going to bed, he realized he'd forgotten his baseball, bat, and glove. He called his mom to complain. She interpreted for me.

Bright and early, we went to Walmart today to buy a bat and ball.

Grandpa, who works from home, was on a conference call and needed it quiet, so it didn't take much for Ethan to talk me into Good Times for lunch.

Ethan watches a lot of baseball. He knows it takes an entire afternoon for the pros to play, so why would we cut ours short? He coerced his Aunt El to join our baseball team. No matter how many times she asked if she could take a turn batting, Ethan would only allow her be the catcher. She had to wear an imaginary catcher's mask and squat like a pro. It was important to Ethan that she keep that mask off the top of her head. Not that she ever pretended to move it, but he must have envisioned her acting like a real catcher. After every swing, Ethan gently reminded her by reaching over with his pincher fingers and sliding it down her face. The boy has quite the imagination.

I wish I'd been able to make a video of the entire scene. I laughed so hard. But once he places a cap on my head, I'm recruited and have to keep my game on. I'm not allowed to do anything else.

Hollywood

2011-01-23T14:26:00.000-07:00

Took a stroll down Hollywood's Walk of Fame today.

Boy did we see some sights!

These pictures don't depict the crowds and craziness that we experienced.

My sister, Carolyn & I, enjoyed people watching.

After the walk, we planned to find the famous HOLLYWOOD sign.

While taking in the sights, Michael glanced across the street. Lo and behold, peeking out between the floors, there it stood.

Having a grand adventure!

Love Hate Relationships

2011-01-19T10:08:00.003-07:00

I hate it when I feel like I can't complete a thought. As sometimes happens, I've created many posts which sit unfinished in my saved box. I hate that. (Did I say that already?)

Other things I hate:
Getting my haircut. (That's all I'm going to say.)

Leaving on a trip and last minute packing, because I my laundry isn't finished.

My sister having a layover in Denver, spending the day with her, but not getting one, single, stinkin' picture.

Things I love:
Watching...

this little boy,

Play baseball,

Pitching like a pro,

And stopping to enjoy a bit of snow off of his baseball bat.

January 13, 2011

2011-01-13T14:39:00.000-07:00

Today is a big day. A day of adventure, a day of good-byes. As we speak, Sarabeth is packing a few forgotten and last minute additions to her already overstuffed bag. She's rather quiet, but then so am I. We both know when the conversation turns to leaving for the airport, the good-byes will begin, & so will the tears.

Great Britian/England. My grandmother's family is from England. Living in London should cause Sarabeth to feel like she's returned to her roots.

My mom and dad drove up last week to give Sarabeth a set of hot pink luggage for her trip. They didn't want her suitcase getting lost. That happened to Lauren when she flew to France for a semester in Paris. Lauren's bag didn't arrive for 13 days. Thirteen Days! She didn't even have a change of clothing. Sarabeth took lots of extra stuff in her carry-on. Just in case her bright colored bag disappeared for a few days.

(What a creeper! Maybe not the best place to stand, lol. We stopped to take this at the airport in almost the same place as one of our pics with Christopher and Lauren when they went to korea.)

Sarabeth will visit with her British Relatives (second cousins once, or is it twice removed?) who live "across the pond." These are the children of my grandmothers first cousin. If my grandmother was alive today, we'd be celebrating her birthday. She would have been 101 years old today. Seems like an appropriate day to fly to London.

Have a wonderful Adventure, Sarabeth. We love you!

Top Ten...err..Four

2011-01-08T22:28:00.000-07:00

Thursday's "You Capture" photography assignment was to post your top 10 photos for 2009. I started to browse through photos and pick ones that made me smile. It was fun to look back through and remember the events of the year. Sadly, for many I didn't have any great photos to mark those occasions. Lots of mediocre and not-so-good ones, but none that were outstanding.

Ethan and water go together like green grass and sunshine.

I love flowers, and orange!

The beach...no explanation needed.

I don't love these critters, but it was a fun trip to San Diego with Michael.

This years photos will be different. I believe I will take a photography class. I think I HAVE to take one. Michael bought me a new camera and I can't wait to take amazing photos. But I realize the camera alone won't produce them if the operator doesn't know how to use it. That's like buying the best oven out there, but if you don't know how to cook, a gourmet meal isn't going to magically pop out of it.

Looking Back And Forward

2011-01-05T00:02:00.008-07:00

I was looking back at last January. I laughed when I read this on my blog:

I doubt I'll ever be a world traveler, sampling exotic foods. I won't be going to fancy shmancy restaurants to entice my taste buds with enchanting new delicacies. It isn't happening. So I can't be expected to have a clue about such culinary delights. (Remember that when dining at my home.)

In March, when we literally travel around the world, I suspect we will be sampling many exotic foods. To get an idea, I perused my son and daughter-in-laws blog. I swiped a couple pics of some dishes they've made at home in their tiny apartment.

Aren't these gorgeous?

How exciting is this? My food blog could take on a whole new look. This trip will be the adventure I never thought I'd take.

I can promise you, though, I am not nearly as courageous as Christopher & Lauren. I enjoy trying new cuisines, but I will not be taste testing all dishes.

Christopher mentioned that the eyes of these got stuck between his teeth.

I saw videos of creatures moving on sticks. They quit moving once dipped in hot oil, but I think I'll pass.

I doubt I could choke down anything with eyes either. But it will be a grand adventure!

When dining at my home, don't expect to see anything this exotic...but maybe Lauren will teach me how to make one of her creations.

Monday Morning Merriment

2011-01-03T11:15:00.001-07:00

1. Seven hours of sleep! (Which required sleeping until 10:30 a.m.)
2. Remembering last Sunday morning. I snuggled with a sweet 8 year old, who snuck in my bed.
3. The sun is shining.
4. Slowing, sipping peppermint coffee, savoring the moment.
5. Seeing snow sparkling in the sunlight.

(And apparently I can't remember that it is 2011. I knew I'd posted this, but I didn't see it. Then I found it back in January of 2010)

A Happy New Year To You

2010-12-31T19:42:00.004-07:00

Today is the first day of 2011. Instead of my usual recap of the previous year or a list of New Years Resolutions, I'm choosing to look ahead to what this year will bring. I am not a big planner, so was surprised to see events on the calendar.

In January:

My parents are coming to visit.

In 13 days, Sarabeth heads off to London.

My sister has a layover, so I'll get to see her.

Michael's sister arrives.

In 20 days, Michael and I fly to California to visit my other sister.

The rest of the year looks similar. Trips & getting together with family.

Why do I have the feeling that I'm about to be hit by a few curve balls also? I was never good at dodge ball, so I hope they aren't pitched too fast or too hard. I'm okay if it is a wild ride. I do enjoy rollercoasters.

Let It Snow

2010-12-30T07:32:00.003-07:00

If the temperature is really going to drop, I say "Let it snow!" I realize other areas have experienced lots of the white stuff lately. We have not. We are in a drought from lack of snowfall. I washed my car yesterday, hoping to ensure the snow will actually fall.

In other news, Michael and I celebrated our wedding anniversary yesterday. I read that the modern day gift for the 27th is a sculpture. We didn't exchange gifts. Instead of presents for Christmas, Anniversary, & birthdays this year, we are taking a trip. We're putting on our adventure pants and flying around the world. Literally.

In an effort to make my birthday a big celebration, Michael booked our trip the day before my birthday this year. He figured it would be wonderful to be in Seoul, S. Korea with Christopher & Lauren. I'll never have another birthday quite like it. It will be my shortest birthday ever.

I noticed on the calendar, we "spring ahead" to daylight savings time at 2:00 a.m. on my birthday. I won't even notice. Just before my fellow Denverites jump ahead, losing an hour of sleep, I will have crossed several time zones and be disembarking on another continent. I will have spent the first half hour of my birthday on the airplane. The last 7 1/2 hours will be spent in Korea. My birthday will be shortened to 8 hours or 1/3 of a normal day. So I don't feel cheated, I'm not sleeping a wink on my birthday. I'm staying awake the entire 8 hours.

To make it all of the way around the world, Michael and I are flying home via London to visit Sarabeth-author of Adventure Pants. I hope when we return, I can still fit into mine.

Happy, Happy Birthday!

2010-12-24T06:46:00.002-07:00

Except for the color of his hair,

He hasn't changed a bit, over the years.

Okay, maybe just a wee bit.

He is much more distinguished looking!

He is kinder, gentler, more tender-hearted. Like fine wine, he has mellowed with age. He is wise & compassionate, yet strong & courageous. He is level-headed & keeps his cool when faced with difficult and stressful situations. He is fun & funny. I love his sense of humor and his laugh.

To my darling, I love you! Happy 57th Birthday.

Where Are You Christmas?

2010-12-23T10:06:00.004-07:00

Up late again last night with, "Donde Esta Santa Claus" song stuck in my head:

I know that I should be sleeping,
But maybe he's not far away,
Out of the window I'm peeping,
Hoping to see him in his sleigh.

Or maybe it was the Champagne...it had a LOT of bubbles.

We sat around the kitchen table, clinking our glasses & sharing memories of Michael's Dad. It was one year ago, that he left this earth for a better place. I laughed so hard I cried. Or was it the other way around?

Or maybe it was the Champagne...it had a LOT of bubbles.

Last summer, for Grandpa's 86th birthday, I made a slideshow for him. We watched the scenes from the previous years spent with us unfold. I smiled with joy reliving so many great times, I got teary-eyed remembering.

Or maybe it was the Champagne...it had a LOT of bubbles.

It was a lovely evening, in the midst of the busy season. When we finished, as I do every year, I went to my bedroom, closed the door, and got busy wrapping, while listening to Christmas music. That was when the song got stuck in my head.

Or maybe it was the Champagne...it had a LOT of bubbles.