This weekend I plan to do nothing.
Well, not exactly nothing. I have housework to do. (Of course.) And I have a paper due for my online class that I need to finish. And I have the scrapbook of our spring break Seattle trip half done and I would like to finish that. But by nothing, I mean that there is nothing planned. I have no meetings or appointments or birthday parties. I have no one counting on me to go anywhere or do anything. That seems to be rare in my life these days and so I am going to take complete advantage of every minute of it.
I might even take time to do some of my favorite things like watch a chick flick, read a book, take a nap, or write in one of my many journals.
So don't call me...unless you want to watch "Pride and Prejudice."
Friday, April 27, 2007
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
35 Continued
When I turned 35 last month, it didn't bother me at all that I was getting older. I'm alive. I'm healthier than I've been in a year. My family is wonderful. I only have a few wrinkles and gray hairs. My life is good. So turning a year older was okay.
That is until yesterday. I was filling out a survey from when I got the car serviced and it asked what age group I was in. For the first time, I had to mark the little box next to 35-44 instead of the little box next to 25-34. I moved up a whole age bracket. I'm officially in the third available age bracket on such surveys. There are only five brackets and I'm in the middle one. That's getting a little too close to the 65+ box if you ask me.
But at least I'm at the low end of that age group...and I have 10 years before I move up again.
That is until yesterday. I was filling out a survey from when I got the car serviced and it asked what age group I was in. For the first time, I had to mark the little box next to 35-44 instead of the little box next to 25-34. I moved up a whole age bracket. I'm officially in the third available age bracket on such surveys. There are only five brackets and I'm in the middle one. That's getting a little too close to the 65+ box if you ask me.
But at least I'm at the low end of that age group...and I have 10 years before I move up again.
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
Spring Has Sprung
10 ways teachers know that it's spring in North Idaho:
1. Forgotten jackets fill the hallway after dismissal (Students need them in the morning but not in the afternoon.)
2. The gloves and boots from winter finally go home.
3. Plants are growing in Dixie cups on windowsills.
4. Newly hatched chicks peep in at least one classroom.
5. Curriculum revolves around looking at bugs instead of spelling "bugs" and planting seeds instead of counting seeds.
6. Students get more and more "energetic" every day.
7. Recess gets a little longer every day. (Especially when I'm on duty!)
8. Students' eyes stray toward the windows a little more than usual.
9. Teachers' eyes stray toward the windows a lot more than usual.
10. The countdown to summer begins. (30 days left!)
1. Forgotten jackets fill the hallway after dismissal (Students need them in the morning but not in the afternoon.)
2. The gloves and boots from winter finally go home.
3. Plants are growing in Dixie cups on windowsills.
4. Newly hatched chicks peep in at least one classroom.
5. Curriculum revolves around looking at bugs instead of spelling "bugs" and planting seeds instead of counting seeds.
6. Students get more and more "energetic" every day.
7. Recess gets a little longer every day. (Especially when I'm on duty!)
8. Students' eyes stray toward the windows a little more than usual.
9. Teachers' eyes stray toward the windows a lot more than usual.
10. The countdown to summer begins. (30 days left!)
Friday, April 20, 2007
Music To My Ears
What I am about to write only very few people know. And I wouldn't tell just anyone this information because it could harm my reputation. But since I know that I can trust you to keep this just between us, here goes. When I started "going with" my husband when I was in fifth grade and he was in sixth grade, our song was "Islands In The Stream" by Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton. (Pause to give you time to laugh.) I know it's ridiculous, but it was 1983 after all and it was a top ten song. And then in 1989 when we resumed our relationship after a few years apart, our song was Sherriff's "When I'm With You." (That's a totally awesome song. Some might even say it's rad!) And now, after almost 15 years of marriage, we don't officially have a song. But I find myself thinking of him when I hear certain songs. Most recently, it's "Easy Silence" by the Dixie Chicks. Here are a few lines of the song that make me think of him.
When the calls and conversations
Accidents and accusations
Messages and misperceptions
Paralyze my mind
Busses, cars, and airplanes leavin'
Burnin' fumes and gasoline and
Everyone is running and I
Come to find the refuge in the
Easy silence that you make for me
It's ok when there's nothing more to say to me
And the peaceful quiet you create for me
And the way you keep the world at bay for me
The way you keep the world at bay for me
After everything we've been through in the past year, he has never complained once about my craziness. As a matter of fact, in his arms is the one place that I have always felt safe and loved. I can't quite figure out why I was blessed with him as my husband, but I'm sure glad I was.
When the calls and conversations
Accidents and accusations
Messages and misperceptions
Paralyze my mind
Busses, cars, and airplanes leavin'
Burnin' fumes and gasoline and
Everyone is running and I
Come to find the refuge in the
Easy silence that you make for me
It's ok when there's nothing more to say to me
And the peaceful quiet you create for me
And the way you keep the world at bay for me
The way you keep the world at bay for me
After everything we've been through in the past year, he has never complained once about my craziness. As a matter of fact, in his arms is the one place that I have always felt safe and loved. I can't quite figure out why I was blessed with him as my husband, but I'm sure glad I was.
Thursday, April 19, 2007
10 Reasons
10 Reasons Why I Love Kathy:
1. She makes me laugh.
2. She thinks like me.
3. She has a movie quote for every situation.
4. She always gives me plenty of time to study menus.
5. She appreciates the 80's just as everyone should.
6. She plans the best chick trips.
7. She is always ready to discuss Grey's Anatomy on Friday mornings.
8. She finds the best deals in town and tells me about them.
9. She calls me just to tell me what the guy in line in front of her has in his grocery cart.
10. She makes everything fun.
Happy Birthday, Kathy. I love you.
1. She makes me laugh.
2. She thinks like me.
3. She has a movie quote for every situation.
4. She always gives me plenty of time to study menus.
5. She appreciates the 80's just as everyone should.
6. She plans the best chick trips.
7. She is always ready to discuss Grey's Anatomy on Friday mornings.
8. She finds the best deals in town and tells me about them.
9. She calls me just to tell me what the guy in line in front of her has in his grocery cart.
10. She makes everything fun.
Happy Birthday, Kathy. I love you.
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
5 More Things To Be Happy About
*family resemblances (blue eyes and cowlicks) :)
*Japanese brush painting
*erasing a full blackboard (or whiteboard)
*Rice Krispie treats
*the sound of rain in the roof gutter (during a nap)
*Japanese brush painting
*erasing a full blackboard (or whiteboard)
*Rice Krispie treats
*the sound of rain in the roof gutter (during a nap)
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
April 17
One year ago today, my life changed. I was involved in a serious car accident where I was run off the road (accidentally) and my Ford Explorer rolled, what I feel like was, three times. I remember thinking, "Please don't roll, please don't roll," as I drove into the ditch and then thinking of my family and praying, "Please don't let me die," as I rolled. Those were 10 of the longest seconds of my life. I finally stopped rolling and the car landed on its wheels. The first thing I saw was a lot of people running toward my car. I had apparently rolled long enough for several cars to have time to stop and the drivers to run to my aid. I was actually surprised that I was okay. I said aloud several times, "I'm okay, I'm okay." I instantly tried to get out of the car, but the driver's side door was smashed closed. As started to try to climb out of the passenger's side, several people who had stopped to help told me to stay still until I got checked out. I found out in the next few minutes that among those who had stopped were 3 EMTs, a nurse, and a doctor. What a blessing. They knew just what to say and do until the ambulance arrived. I was able to call my husband and tell him what had happened and ask him to come to the scene which was only a few miles from home. When help arrived it seemed like a hundred people: emts, police officers, firefighters. They all surrounded me, asked me about my condition and did what they had been trained to do. I wanted to have my husband take me to the hospital, but they encouraged me to go in the ambulance just in case there were injuries that they couldn't see. I agreed and they proceeded to tear the door off the driver's side of the car. I said, "Hey, don't wreck my car!" to which they all laughed and someone said, "She's okay mentally." Then they put a neck brace on me and strapped me down to a board. As they were doing this, my husband arrived and I will never forget the look on his face. The worry and love that I saw there are forever etched in my memory. I assured him that I was okay, but honestly I was assuring myself just as much. They loaded me into the ambulance and began monitoring me. I remember hearing this sound that sounded like a really fast heartbeat and thinking, because it was so fast, that it couldn't be that. But as I paid attention to my breathing, it affected that sound and I realized that it was my heart beating so fast. Amazingly, I wasn't really scared. I think it was a little bit of adrenaline and a whole lot of the holy spirit. At the hospital, the doctor's checked me out, gave me a tetanus shot and three stitches in the back of my head, watched me for a while and let me go home. Just over four hours after I had left home, I was back with some sore muscles, a slight headache, and a new appreciation for life.
I would like to say that all has been well since then, but the truth is, I went through months of pain and physical therapy for my back, neck and shoulders, and more recently, a pretty severe case of post traumatic stress disorder and anxiety disorder. It's amazing what your brain can do under extreme stress and how it affects your body. I thought I was dying, but it turns out it was just my brain telling me that and my body making me feel that way. After months of medical care, I am so very glad to say that I am doing much better. I still have moments and even days when I struggle with the anxiety, but compared to the worst days, those are easy.
The worst part now is that a couple of times a week, the boys talk about my accident as we drive past the scene. Yesterday, Josh said, "Mom, I'm glad you didn't die." All I could say, with tears in my eyes, was, "Me, too." And it's true. I thank God everyday for my life and a little while longer to raise my kids and love my husband. I thank him for healing my body and my mind. I thank him for bringing me closer to him through it all and for reminding me who's in control. And most of all, I thank him for being there with me that day one year ago, when, as my car rolled, I felt his presence and his arms around me.
I would like to say that all has been well since then, but the truth is, I went through months of pain and physical therapy for my back, neck and shoulders, and more recently, a pretty severe case of post traumatic stress disorder and anxiety disorder. It's amazing what your brain can do under extreme stress and how it affects your body. I thought I was dying, but it turns out it was just my brain telling me that and my body making me feel that way. After months of medical care, I am so very glad to say that I am doing much better. I still have moments and even days when I struggle with the anxiety, but compared to the worst days, those are easy.
The worst part now is that a couple of times a week, the boys talk about my accident as we drive past the scene. Yesterday, Josh said, "Mom, I'm glad you didn't die." All I could say, with tears in my eyes, was, "Me, too." And it's true. I thank God everyday for my life and a little while longer to raise my kids and love my husband. I thank him for healing my body and my mind. I thank him for bringing me closer to him through it all and for reminding me who's in control. And most of all, I thank him for being there with me that day one year ago, when, as my car rolled, I felt his presence and his arms around me.
Friday, April 13, 2007
Show and Tell
Today we had:
1 white plastic pony named Sparkle
2 tiny dolls
1 pink hippo named Lola
1 Mister Potato Head
3 stuffed cats
1 movie
2 Bionicles
1 "locker" (You know, the kind shaped like a heart that you wear around your neck and put pictures in.) :)
And...
1 pet turtle named Leonardo who, during chapel, got out of his box and escaped down the west hall, down the south hall, and into the kitchen where he startled a parent who referred to him as "some kind of reptile thing."
1 white plastic pony named Sparkle
2 tiny dolls
1 pink hippo named Lola
1 Mister Potato Head
3 stuffed cats
1 movie
2 Bionicles
1 "locker" (You know, the kind shaped like a heart that you wear around your neck and put pictures in.) :)
And...
1 pet turtle named Leonardo who, during chapel, got out of his box and escaped down the west hall, down the south hall, and into the kitchen where he startled a parent who referred to him as "some kind of reptile thing."
Hope
This morning in chapel, we had a special presentation about Lifeline of Hope, the orphanage aid organization that our church and school support. The man who was here had a slide presentation to show the kids and since our class was first to chapel, we watched as he turned on his projector and got to his first slide. This slide showed a little girl about a year old being held by an aid worker. She was nearly bald, not very clean, not very well taken care of, and obviously sad. These pictures always bring tears to my eyes as I think of my own children and how truly blessed we are.
But I was surprised when I looked at the student next to me. She, too, had tears in her eyes. She looked up at me and said, "My eyes are really watery." When I asked her what was wrong she just pointed to the picture up on the wall. It reminded me once again why I do what I do. Why I teach at a Christian school. Why I teach God's children. These children learn everyday about the love and kindness of our Lord and this morning I saw what that can do. It can, and does, instill in them that same love and kindness toward each other and the world.
But I was surprised when I looked at the student next to me. She, too, had tears in her eyes. She looked up at me and said, "My eyes are really watery." When I asked her what was wrong she just pointed to the picture up on the wall. It reminded me once again why I do what I do. Why I teach at a Christian school. Why I teach God's children. These children learn everyday about the love and kindness of our Lord and this morning I saw what that can do. It can, and does, instill in them that same love and kindness toward each other and the world.
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Whirlwind
Last week for spring break, our family took a trip to Seattle. The boys were so excited and we had been talking about it for weeks, so when the day finally came, we were all ready and raring to go. We loaded up the car with all we would need for three days away and plenty of provisions for a 5+ hour road trip. Before we were even out of the driveway, the snack bag had been opened and cracker crumbs littered the floor. And before we even reached Spokane, those most dreaded words were uttered, "How much longer?" I lost count of how many times I actually answered that question and took to telling them each time we passed a sign that showed how many more miles to Seattle. We also played "guess how many more miles" and "what's growing in the field." (There are signs on the fences that tell what's growing in the fields for about 15 miles of highway somewhere in the middle of Washington.) The funny thing was, even though they couldn't wait to get there, they never got bored. I know this because they never played their gameboys; they were "saving them until they were bored." The best part about the drive was the hours of conversation that Arrty and I were able to share. Between the questions and comments of the boys, we were able to solve the world's problems. (Well, at least a few of our own.) So, here's a brief account of our whirlwind tour of Seattle.
Tuesday: Get to the hotel with just enough time for a swim in the pool before bed.
Wednesday: Woodland Park Zoo (favorites: baby tiger, komodo dragons, gorillas)
(favorite memory: Josh practicing his navigating skills with the zoo map
and Adam up close and personal with the gorillas.)
Wednesday night: Mariners game (favorites: the Moose and cotton candy)
(favorite memories: Josh's face as he watched every moment of the game
and Adam's running commentary about everything but the game.)
Thursday: Aquarium and Harbor Cruise (favorites: sea horses, jellyfish, octopus)
(favorite memories: watching the boys watching the octopus feeding time
and the history of Seattle from the cruise tour guide)
Thursday lunch: Crab Pot (favorite: cracking the crab legs with the hammer)
Thursday night: The Museum of Flight (favorites: watching planes land and take off)
Friday: Pacific Science Center (favorites: bugs, dinosaurs, butterfly house)
(favorite memories: Adam's study of entomoligist gear and Josh's butterfly
search)
Other favorites: gift shops, flattened penny souveniers, swimming in the pool, Papandrino's pizza, seeing the Space Needle, beautiful weather for everything
We had so much fun even though we were so busy. We have already talked about all the things we need to do the next time we visit the Emerald City.
Tuesday: Get to the hotel with just enough time for a swim in the pool before bed.
Wednesday: Woodland Park Zoo (favorites: baby tiger, komodo dragons, gorillas)
(favorite memory: Josh practicing his navigating skills with the zoo map
and Adam up close and personal with the gorillas.)
Wednesday night: Mariners game (favorites: the Moose and cotton candy)
(favorite memories: Josh's face as he watched every moment of the game
and Adam's running commentary about everything but the game.)
Thursday: Aquarium and Harbor Cruise (favorites: sea horses, jellyfish, octopus)
(favorite memories: watching the boys watching the octopus feeding time
and the history of Seattle from the cruise tour guide)
Thursday lunch: Crab Pot (favorite: cracking the crab legs with the hammer)
Thursday night: The Museum of Flight (favorites: watching planes land and take off)
Friday: Pacific Science Center (favorites: bugs, dinosaurs, butterfly house)
(favorite memories: Adam's study of entomoligist gear and Josh's butterfly
search)
Other favorites: gift shops, flattened penny souveniers, swimming in the pool, Papandrino's pizza, seeing the Space Needle, beautiful weather for everything
We had so much fun even though we were so busy. We have already talked about all the things we need to do the next time we visit the Emerald City.
Monday, April 02, 2007
TGIF&S&S
I love weekends. As much as I enjoy my job and my students, I love weekends. There is a certain freedom and excitement that only seem to belong to Friday nights and Saturdays and Sundays. And this weekend was especially great.
On Friday night, three of my sister-friends took me out for a belated birthday celebration complete with dinner (chicken taco salad at America's Cheesecake Cafe), a movie (Premonition--I give it three out of four stars), and ice cream (germanchokolatekake at Cold Stone Creamery). We laughed and talked and enjoyed each other's company just as we always do. It reminded me once again why I love these ladies. (Just don't ask Katrina about recycling!) :)
Saturday morning I spent a few hours cleaning house and playing with the boys. (I can ninja fight with the best of them!) This all sounds very ordinary, but in the midst of it all, I thanked God, because not so long ago I was barely able to get off the couch, no less fight off two miniature ninjas. I was happy.
Saturday afternoon, I attended the very sweet wedding of a very special couple. Weddings always remind me how much I appreciate my amazing husband.
Saturday night I made homemade pizza with the boys; messy and slow, but fun and yummy. After they went to bed, we watched "The Prestige." It was a great movie, but even better was the conversation we had afterwards about all the twists and turns. We decided that we need to see it again.
Sunday afternoon we all went to the movies and saw the digital 3D version of "Meet the Robinsons." It is amazing. This new kind of 3D is so much better than the old kind. The boys loved it. They kept trying to reach out and grab things that came flying toward them. The story in the movie was great, too. Then we discussed our favorite characters from the movie over Chinese food for lunch. Mine is "Goob."
Sunday evening, just before the sun went down, we went for a walk. Living out in the country gives us the perfect place to walk. When we first moved to our new house six years ago, we walked with both boys in a double stroller. The next summer one walked and one was in a stroller. Since then, they have both walked, but with many stops along the way to look at a bird or pick up a rock. And this year, we walk and they ride their bikes, which they love. No matter how we travel, it's a great time together.
So, this was a great weekend full of family and friends and fun. Which, if you ask me, is the best kind of all.
On Friday night, three of my sister-friends took me out for a belated birthday celebration complete with dinner (chicken taco salad at America's Cheesecake Cafe), a movie (Premonition--I give it three out of four stars), and ice cream (germanchokolatekake at Cold Stone Creamery). We laughed and talked and enjoyed each other's company just as we always do. It reminded me once again why I love these ladies. (Just don't ask Katrina about recycling!) :)
Saturday morning I spent a few hours cleaning house and playing with the boys. (I can ninja fight with the best of them!) This all sounds very ordinary, but in the midst of it all, I thanked God, because not so long ago I was barely able to get off the couch, no less fight off two miniature ninjas. I was happy.
Saturday afternoon, I attended the very sweet wedding of a very special couple. Weddings always remind me how much I appreciate my amazing husband.
Saturday night I made homemade pizza with the boys; messy and slow, but fun and yummy. After they went to bed, we watched "The Prestige." It was a great movie, but even better was the conversation we had afterwards about all the twists and turns. We decided that we need to see it again.
Sunday afternoon we all went to the movies and saw the digital 3D version of "Meet the Robinsons." It is amazing. This new kind of 3D is so much better than the old kind. The boys loved it. They kept trying to reach out and grab things that came flying toward them. The story in the movie was great, too. Then we discussed our favorite characters from the movie over Chinese food for lunch. Mine is "Goob."
Sunday evening, just before the sun went down, we went for a walk. Living out in the country gives us the perfect place to walk. When we first moved to our new house six years ago, we walked with both boys in a double stroller. The next summer one walked and one was in a stroller. Since then, they have both walked, but with many stops along the way to look at a bird or pick up a rock. And this year, we walk and they ride their bikes, which they love. No matter how we travel, it's a great time together.
So, this was a great weekend full of family and friends and fun. Which, if you ask me, is the best kind of all.
Thursday, March 22, 2007
How I Made $3
Last Saturday was a busy day. The boys and I went into town to run some errands and on the way, Josh asked me if he could ride his bike when we got home. I reminded him that his tire was flat, but assured him that we would stop at Target to get a tire pump so we could pump it up. So, before heading home we did just that. After several minutes in the bike gear aisle, I chose an electric air pump. (Who needs all the work of a hand pump anyway?) We also got training wheels for Adam's two wheeler so that he could ride, too.
We went to the grocery store and post office and headed home. Before I could even get out of the car, Josh had the garage door open and was waiting for me to get the pump ready. As soon as I got the milk put away, I went outside and opened the package of our new pump. I was surprised to find that it ran from the cigarette lighter in a car, not a regular outlet. (Lesson #186 on reading labels.) I've never in my life plugged anything into a car cigarette lighter, and when I plugged in the pump and turned on the switch nothing happened. (Who knew that the car had to be on?) The look of disappointment on Josh's face was unbearable, so we loaded 3 bikes (their two-wheelers and Adam's tricycle just in case the training wheels didn't work) into the back of the van and headed north to the gas station in the closest "town." We drove around the building with no air station in sight, when at last there it was. The boys were so happy. And so was I. If I went through all this and they still didn't get to ride their bikes I don't know what I would have done.
I was through about 3 of the 7 tires I had to fill when a lady parked two spots away from me and started walking toward me. She asked, "Are you good at that?" I smiled and answered, "I can get air in the tires." She said, "My front tire is low and I usually get more air out than in. My daughter usually does it for me, but I think my tire is really low. Could you check it for me?" Of course I obliged and stopped what I was doing and headed toward her car. The air hose was tangled and I had to get it untangled so that it would reach her car. The hose was dirty, so I was too by the time I was finished. We used her guage to check her tire and it was so low that it didn't even register. She said it needed to have 30 lbs. of air, so we aired it up and checked it until it got there. She kept thanking me over and over and saying how glad she was that I was there. Then she said something that didn't strike me as significant until later. She said, "You are such a Godsend." She also offered to give me something for helping her, but I refused. As I finished airing up the bike tires, though, she came over and gave me $3 to "buy a treat for the boys."
It wasn't until I was driving home that I began to think about what had happened that afternoon. Maybe I really was a Godsend. Maybe He sent me to that place at that time to help that woman. All the circumstances of the day had led me there. One little change and I wouldn't have been there to help her air up a tire that I have since found out was dangerously low to drive on. I pray daily for God to use me and I think that Saturday was one of those wonderful times when I realized just how He chose to do so. So as I drove home, I got tears in my eyes and said a prayer thanking Him for the opportunity to serve and asking him to care for the lady in the car.
So I returned home with full bike tires, $3, and dirty hands. But that day, and I hope everyday, they were my Father's hands.
We went to the grocery store and post office and headed home. Before I could even get out of the car, Josh had the garage door open and was waiting for me to get the pump ready. As soon as I got the milk put away, I went outside and opened the package of our new pump. I was surprised to find that it ran from the cigarette lighter in a car, not a regular outlet. (Lesson #186 on reading labels.) I've never in my life plugged anything into a car cigarette lighter, and when I plugged in the pump and turned on the switch nothing happened. (Who knew that the car had to be on?) The look of disappointment on Josh's face was unbearable, so we loaded 3 bikes (their two-wheelers and Adam's tricycle just in case the training wheels didn't work) into the back of the van and headed north to the gas station in the closest "town." We drove around the building with no air station in sight, when at last there it was. The boys were so happy. And so was I. If I went through all this and they still didn't get to ride their bikes I don't know what I would have done.
I was through about 3 of the 7 tires I had to fill when a lady parked two spots away from me and started walking toward me. She asked, "Are you good at that?" I smiled and answered, "I can get air in the tires." She said, "My front tire is low and I usually get more air out than in. My daughter usually does it for me, but I think my tire is really low. Could you check it for me?" Of course I obliged and stopped what I was doing and headed toward her car. The air hose was tangled and I had to get it untangled so that it would reach her car. The hose was dirty, so I was too by the time I was finished. We used her guage to check her tire and it was so low that it didn't even register. She said it needed to have 30 lbs. of air, so we aired it up and checked it until it got there. She kept thanking me over and over and saying how glad she was that I was there. Then she said something that didn't strike me as significant until later. She said, "You are such a Godsend." She also offered to give me something for helping her, but I refused. As I finished airing up the bike tires, though, she came over and gave me $3 to "buy a treat for the boys."
It wasn't until I was driving home that I began to think about what had happened that afternoon. Maybe I really was a Godsend. Maybe He sent me to that place at that time to help that woman. All the circumstances of the day had led me there. One little change and I wouldn't have been there to help her air up a tire that I have since found out was dangerously low to drive on. I pray daily for God to use me and I think that Saturday was one of those wonderful times when I realized just how He chose to do so. So as I drove home, I got tears in my eyes and said a prayer thanking Him for the opportunity to serve and asking him to care for the lady in the car.
So I returned home with full bike tires, $3, and dirty hands. But that day, and I hope everyday, they were my Father's hands.
Friday, March 16, 2007
Green Thumb and Halo
Today for show and tell in kindergarten we had:
1 Polly Pocket
1 Barbie Horse
1 stuffed puppy named butterfly
2 Batman dolls...I mean action figures
1 Roboreptile
1 pink make-up purse
And...
1 "Gardening" Angel "to watch over me and keep me safe." :)
1 Polly Pocket
1 Barbie Horse
1 stuffed puppy named butterfly
2 Batman dolls...I mean action figures
1 Roboreptile
1 pink make-up purse
And...
1 "Gardening" Angel "to watch over me and keep me safe." :)
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Trivia
Question (in chapel this morning): When Esau was born, was his hair silver or red?
Answer (from a 4 year old): Green!
(Just in time for St. Patrick's Day!) :)
Answer (from a 4 year old): Green!
(Just in time for St. Patrick's Day!) :)
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
The Awakening
For my American Literature class I have been reading stories from the late 1800's and the early 1900's. Crane, London, Okison, Gilman, Garland, Freeman, Jewett. Boy, can these guys (and gals) write. The language is beautiful and amazing and brilliant. The stories are captivating and emotional. I have begun to feel like I have been deprived in my 35 years that I have never read some of these author's works. (I did read Call of The Wild by Jack London, but I was too young to appreciate it.)
This week we read Kate Chopin's The Awakening. I was once again struck by the wonderful writing. I had never read this story before, and couldn't put it down. Never have I enjoyed homework so much. In this story, Edna, a wife and mother, begins to "awaken" to her more independent and sensual side. I could see the slow progression from her little flirtations to all out rebellion. Her situation was common in those days. She had a socially acceptable marriage, two sons, (who were taken care of by a nanny), a big house, and spent summers at the coast. But, without understanding why, she felt unhappy. Her unhappiness confused her and she tried to make it go away. No matter what she did, though (painting, music, gambling, moving), she still wasn't who she wanted to be. Her husband certainly didn't understand her. (Depression in women was so misunderstood back then.) When she finally realized what would make her happy, it didn't come to be. The story didn't have a happy ending, but it was written so amazingly well that I didn't mind.
Reading writing of this caliber is a little intimidating for someone who someday wants to write a book. But at the same time, it gives me something to strive for. (Especially knowing that Kate Chopin did all of her writing in the afternoons while her 6, yes 6, children napped or played around her writing table!) All of these classics have definitely made me hungry to read more. I can't wait to read what's next!
This week we read Kate Chopin's The Awakening. I was once again struck by the wonderful writing. I had never read this story before, and couldn't put it down. Never have I enjoyed homework so much. In this story, Edna, a wife and mother, begins to "awaken" to her more independent and sensual side. I could see the slow progression from her little flirtations to all out rebellion. Her situation was common in those days. She had a socially acceptable marriage, two sons, (who were taken care of by a nanny), a big house, and spent summers at the coast. But, without understanding why, she felt unhappy. Her unhappiness confused her and she tried to make it go away. No matter what she did, though (painting, music, gambling, moving), she still wasn't who she wanted to be. Her husband certainly didn't understand her. (Depression in women was so misunderstood back then.) When she finally realized what would make her happy, it didn't come to be. The story didn't have a happy ending, but it was written so amazingly well that I didn't mind.
Reading writing of this caliber is a little intimidating for someone who someday wants to write a book. But at the same time, it gives me something to strive for. (Especially knowing that Kate Chopin did all of her writing in the afternoons while her 6, yes 6, children napped or played around her writing table!) All of these classics have definitely made me hungry to read more. I can't wait to read what's next!
Friday, March 09, 2007
5 More Things
Here are 5 more things to be happy about today.
(I love this calendar!!)
*singing in the shower
*exploring a foreign city
*rereading Pride and Prejudice
*chips and dip
*an empty seat next to you on the plane
(I love this calendar!!)
*singing in the shower
*exploring a foreign city
*rereading Pride and Prejudice
*chips and dip
*an empty seat next to you on the plane
Sunday, March 04, 2007
35
Today I turn 35. Not so long ago, I couldn’t imagine being 35. I don’t feel 35. I don’t really feel any age, I just feel like me. 35 is good, though. I like being my age. I would not want to be a teenager again for sure and the twenty somethings were kind of weird; I wasn’t really sure where I fit in. But now I feel comfortable. Old enough to know better (most of the time) and young enough to be young. So here I am, closer to 40 than to 30 and halfway to 70. I have learned a few things in my short time on earth. Here are 35 of them.
*Sunny days make me feel better than gray days.
*A child’s laughter is the best sound on earth.
*Good meals are best shared with good friends.
*God’s timing is perfect.
*Change little boys’ diapers as fast as possible.
*Father (and Mother) really do know best.
*It’s fun being married to my childhood sweetheart.
*Always order the combination plate (and be prepared to share).
*God did not give me a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, love, and self-discipline.
*Wear pajamas as much as possible.
*Summer vacation is best spent on the beach.
*A clean house makes me feel good.
*Prayer is my most powerful tool.
*There’s nothing better than a good nap.
*Sisterhood gets better with age.
*Marriage to a godly husband is a great gift.
*Bugs aren’t scary at all in the hands of a five year old.
*Music soothes the savage beast and the grumpy child.
*Going to the movies alone is good.
*Teaching children (especially my own) is very rewarding.
*Grace is amazing.
*Sister-friends are the best friends.
*Chasing butterflies is good exercise for body and soul.
*Sometimes I need help.
*Motherhood is wonderfully scary.
*Health is underrated.
*The Lord truly works in mysterious ways.
*Ice water is my favorite drink.
*Laughter really is the best medicine.
*The book is always better than the movie.
*Eating cold watermelon on a hot summer day is the best.
*Family is why we are here.
*God’s ways are best.
*God’s ways are best.
*God’s ways are best.
*Sunny days make me feel better than gray days.
*A child’s laughter is the best sound on earth.
*Good meals are best shared with good friends.
*God’s timing is perfect.
*Change little boys’ diapers as fast as possible.
*Father (and Mother) really do know best.
*It’s fun being married to my childhood sweetheart.
*Always order the combination plate (and be prepared to share).
*God did not give me a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, love, and self-discipline.
*Wear pajamas as much as possible.
*Summer vacation is best spent on the beach.
*A clean house makes me feel good.
*Prayer is my most powerful tool.
*There’s nothing better than a good nap.
*Sisterhood gets better with age.
*Marriage to a godly husband is a great gift.
*Bugs aren’t scary at all in the hands of a five year old.
*Music soothes the savage beast and the grumpy child.
*Going to the movies alone is good.
*Teaching children (especially my own) is very rewarding.
*Grace is amazing.
*Sister-friends are the best friends.
*Chasing butterflies is good exercise for body and soul.
*Sometimes I need help.
*Motherhood is wonderfully scary.
*Health is underrated.
*The Lord truly works in mysterious ways.
*Ice water is my favorite drink.
*Laughter really is the best medicine.
*The book is always better than the movie.
*Eating cold watermelon on a hot summer day is the best.
*Family is why we are here.
*God’s ways are best.
*God’s ways are best.
*God’s ways are best.
Friday, March 02, 2007
5 More Things
Here are 5 more things to be happy about (edited by me).
--a whiff of spring (I'm soo ready for more than just a whiff!)
--crab cakes with tarter sauce (Yum!)
--the crisp feel of new money (Preferably 100s. They do make those, don't they?)
--a puppy rolling on its back (As long as it belongs to someone else.)
--the red rocks of Sedona, Arizona (It's warm there, right!?!?)
Have a happy day!
--a whiff of spring (I'm soo ready for more than just a whiff!)
--crab cakes with tarter sauce (Yum!)
--the crisp feel of new money (Preferably 100s. They do make those, don't they?)
--a puppy rolling on its back (As long as it belongs to someone else.)
--the red rocks of Sedona, Arizona (It's warm there, right!?!?)
Have a happy day!
Thursday, March 01, 2007
Thursday Morning
I have been sick for a week. Stomach flu. The worst. But this morning I woke up feeling almost normal. I even smiled when I woke up and realized that I was feeling better. So I got up, got myself and the boys ready for school and went out to start the car. In the last few days we have gotten about 14 inches of new snow, including about 3 that I had to clear from the car this morning. After one little complaint to myself about winter, I did what I had to do. So I got everyone and everything loaded into the van and started to pull out of our long driveway. About halfway to the road, we stopped. (Did I mention the 14 inches of snow?)
Reverse. Spin. Forward. Spin. Reverse. Spin. Forward. Spin. Get out to check. See nothing that should keep me from moving. Reverse. Spin. Forward. Spin. Tromp up the driveway to get the shovel. Shovel around the tires. Reverse. Spin. Forward. Spin. 20 minutes later, call my "knight in shining whatever" to rescue me.
I just knew that he would get home, get in the van and pull right out. Then I would know that it was a girl thing. But fortunately...I mean unfortunately, it took him over half an hour to get us out. He had to jack up the van and put a board under the tire spinning on ice under all that snow. I'm not exactly sure how it happened that I got so stuck, but since the little rollover I had last spring, I am of the mind that everything happens for a reason. Maybe we were meant to be on the road a little later than usual today. Or maybe I was meant to have 20 extra minutes to clean the kitchen. Either way, I'm thankful that I made it to school, AND the dishes are done. And I'm especially thankful for my knight who didn't complain once, but actually smiled while he dug snow from under my van!
Reverse. Spin. Forward. Spin. Reverse. Spin. Forward. Spin. Get out to check. See nothing that should keep me from moving. Reverse. Spin. Forward. Spin. Tromp up the driveway to get the shovel. Shovel around the tires. Reverse. Spin. Forward. Spin. 20 minutes later, call my "knight in shining whatever" to rescue me.
I just knew that he would get home, get in the van and pull right out. Then I would know that it was a girl thing. But fortunately...I mean unfortunately, it took him over half an hour to get us out. He had to jack up the van and put a board under the tire spinning on ice under all that snow. I'm not exactly sure how it happened that I got so stuck, but since the little rollover I had last spring, I am of the mind that everything happens for a reason. Maybe we were meant to be on the road a little later than usual today. Or maybe I was meant to have 20 extra minutes to clean the kitchen. Either way, I'm thankful that I made it to school, AND the dishes are done. And I'm especially thankful for my knight who didn't complain once, but actually smiled while he dug snow from under my van!
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Twinkle, Twinkle
There are several reasons why living thirty minutes out of town doesn't make sense for our family. We drive two different cars into town at least once a day. Work, school, and church are all in town. Most of our family and friends live in town. But then, every once in a while, a moment happens when I am so glad to live where we live.
I had one of those moments last night. I walked out on the porch to shake out a tablecloth and looked up. The sky was dark and clear and the moon and stars were shining brightly. I have always loved the fact that we can see the stars so well from our front yard. It's one of my favorite parts about living out in the country. But last night it just struck me in a different way. I stood on the porch, in the cool breeze, thanking God for his amazing creation and for making me a part, although a tiny part, of his world. Although looking up at the galaxy made me feel so very small, I smiled because the spirit reminded me that God loves the tiny dot that is me.
I had one of those moments last night. I walked out on the porch to shake out a tablecloth and looked up. The sky was dark and clear and the moon and stars were shining brightly. I have always loved the fact that we can see the stars so well from our front yard. It's one of my favorite parts about living out in the country. But last night it just struck me in a different way. I stood on the porch, in the cool breeze, thanking God for his amazing creation and for making me a part, although a tiny part, of his world. Although looking up at the galaxy made me feel so very small, I smiled because the spirit reminded me that God loves the tiny dot that is me.
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