Remember how I said that libraries just seem to attract the coolest people?
Well, my friend Donna is one of them. I met her in 2004 when I started working at Troy University in Dothan. And honestly... in the beginning I was scared of her. Haha... I don't know why. She just seemed sort of intimidating to me. And that's probably because Donna has a strong "go-get-'em" personality. She doesn't let things get in the way of her accomplishing the things she wants to do... And I admire that a lot.
She once said something along the lines of "Well, you just take that leap of faith... and if you end up falling on your face, you just get up and start walking again." That's not really a direct quote. It was 2 years ago, and I don't remember the words precisely. But basically, that was the gist of it. And, like I said, I admire that. Because I don't necessarily have that kind of chutzpah.
Of course, over time, I stopped being so intimidated by her and realized how awesome and fun she really is. She introduced me to a whole lot of awesomeness -- like Aspen mulling spices for spicing up apple cider and Edgar's Bakery in Birmingham. There was one treat at Edgar's that she was trying to replicate and she would bring in to work all the "attempts" for us to gobble up. And let's just say that was thoroughly enjoyable.
She also taught me how to sew and make "I Spy" quilts. So here's how that went: she brought her light-weight Singer sewing machine to work and we put it in the back room (a.k.a. periodicals storage and lunch room). And we'd work on our quilts during breaks and lunch. It was seriously awesome. I managed to get 3 quilts made this way, one for each of my nieces and nephew (I've since added to my list of nieces and nephews, but haven't managed to make anymore quilts yet... Clearly I need to go to work with Donna again.)
And when I left Dothan to head to graduate school in Tuscaloosa, Donna was one of the dear friends it was so hard to say good-bye to. As a going-away gift/birthday present, she gave me a piece of Polish pottery so that I'd always remember her (she collects that). And it has sat in a special place in my home (wherever that may be) ever since. Because, even though I can't imagine every forgetting her anyway, it's a constant reminder of a dear friend who taught me much and who still makes me laugh with her anecdotes. She seriously has some of the most hilarious stories, like the guy in the Pinto in Alaska in the middle of winter; or her friend who managed to hit the squirrel, even though she was driving 5 miles per hour specifically to miss the squirrel.
Donna is just one of those people who added a whole lot of brightness and laughter to my life, and I'm glad I still get to see her every time I go back to Dothan. I know there will come a day (probably sooner than later) that she will retire and move away... But until then, I'll just look forward to our visits in my old stomping grounds of Troy Dothan :).
What are you grateful for today?
Saturday, November 30, 2013
Friday, November 29, 2013
Vaccinations
So there are a few things in life I don't enjoy.
One of those things is shots. You can ask my mom. In my younger years, I was pretty much an embarrassment to her when I had to get shots or have blood drawn. I'm not talking about when I was 4 or 5... I'm talking about when I was 12 and 13. Let's just say there was a time that required me to be held down by a couple of large orderlies in order for them to draw my blood. Not one of my prouder moments, but I seriously hated shots and blood draws. I felt very strongly that, if I was meant to have needles stuck in my skin, I'd have been born with them there.
I've managed to get over those issues in my old age.
Another thing I really don't enjoy is hearing my baby girl cry in pain. I can actually say I hate that. It is heart-breaking.
So I didn't look forward to today and the 6-month check-up. Because with it comes the vaccinations. And though I really don't like shots (they don't feel good, after all); and I really hate to hear my baby cry in pain... I believe that vaccinations are a blessing -- and are among the best things I can do for my baby girl whom I love so very much.
How grateful I am to live in a time -- and a place -- when things like tetanus and polio can be largely avoided because of medical advancements. It is hard to realize that, even though we live such an abundant life, it isn't so for everyone, even in this day and time. And I have to acknowledge how grateful I am for the fact that I have access to the vaccinations -- however unpleasant -- for myself and my baby girl. And as I pondered that fact this morning while I gave thanks in prayer for the availability of them, I realize I want to do something to help people whose circumstances are different than my own. I want to help some mother somewhere else be able to get what she needs to protect her baby.
Because even though it is awful to hold my baby's hands still and keep her secure on my lap while 3 needles are jabbed into her legs... And even though it is heart-breaking to hear her cry in pain as a result... I know it would be far more heart-breaking to lose her to a disease that was completely preventable. And so I do it. Because I love her.
What are you grateful for today?
I know not everyone shares my views on vaccinations. I respect others' right to have their own opinion, but this is mine.
One of those things is shots. You can ask my mom. In my younger years, I was pretty much an embarrassment to her when I had to get shots or have blood drawn. I'm not talking about when I was 4 or 5... I'm talking about when I was 12 and 13. Let's just say there was a time that required me to be held down by a couple of large orderlies in order for them to draw my blood. Not one of my prouder moments, but I seriously hated shots and blood draws. I felt very strongly that, if I was meant to have needles stuck in my skin, I'd have been born with them there.
I've managed to get over those issues in my old age.
Another thing I really don't enjoy is hearing my baby girl cry in pain. I can actually say I hate that. It is heart-breaking.
So I didn't look forward to today and the 6-month check-up. Because with it comes the vaccinations. And though I really don't like shots (they don't feel good, after all); and I really hate to hear my baby cry in pain... I believe that vaccinations are a blessing -- and are among the best things I can do for my baby girl whom I love so very much.
How grateful I am to live in a time -- and a place -- when things like tetanus and polio can be largely avoided because of medical advancements. It is hard to realize that, even though we live such an abundant life, it isn't so for everyone, even in this day and time. And I have to acknowledge how grateful I am for the fact that I have access to the vaccinations -- however unpleasant -- for myself and my baby girl. And as I pondered that fact this morning while I gave thanks in prayer for the availability of them, I realize I want to do something to help people whose circumstances are different than my own. I want to help some mother somewhere else be able to get what she needs to protect her baby.
Because even though it is awful to hold my baby's hands still and keep her secure on my lap while 3 needles are jabbed into her legs... And even though it is heart-breaking to hear her cry in pain as a result... I know it would be far more heart-breaking to lose her to a disease that was completely preventable. And so I do it. Because I love her.
What are you grateful for today?
I know not everyone shares my views on vaccinations. I respect others' right to have their own opinion, but this is mine.
Thursday, November 28, 2013
My Precious Lynnaea
On this Thanksgiving, this day set aside to be grateful for all we have (though, truthfully, we should be thankful every day); I decided to write about the greatest blessing I received this year.
And she is my daughter Lynnaea.
This time last year, she was a secret no one knew, except her dad and me. This time last year, I was waiting for my first doctor appointment to hear her little heart beating.
It is so hard for me to believe she is now 6 months old. That at the beginning of this year, I was just barely starting to feel her wiggle around inside of me. That I wasn't sure if she was a she or not (and we didn't find out until she was born!). That every month or so, I waited anxiously to hear her little heartbeat. It is hard for me to believe, even though I know it's true, that I have actually gone through labor and delivery and survived the sleepless nights. It's so unbelievable to me at times that she is mine. That the wonderful little baby girl with the roly-poly arms and legs sitting up on the floor playing with her toys as I write this is my sweet girl. That I am her mommy. But it's true.
She has changed my world. She has changed my life. She has changed me. She has brightened my world. She has improved (and sometimes complicated) my life. She has made me a better person. She has taught me how to be more patient, more loving, more compassionate. She has given me reasons to work on being more kind, less judgmental. More positive, and less pessimistic. To really examine myself so that I can work on being the best example for her I can be.
She puts a smile on my face faster and easier than anyone or anything else in the whole world... And she does it just by being herself.
It's hard to explain, really, but since having her, I think I feel more deeply.
I am grateful every single day for this precious life that has been entrusted to my care. I feel inadequate more often than not. But I feel blessed. And thankful. Though I can clearly remember what life was like before she was here, I can't imagine life without her from here on out. Nor do I want to. I hoped for so long to have a baby -- and feared for so long it would never be. She helps make my dreams come true.
I have much to be thankful for. Much that makes my life blessed. And my sweet Lynnaea is at the top of that list, every day. And so, this Thanksgiving, I give thanks for all my blessings. But especially for her.
What are you grateful for today?
And she is my daughter Lynnaea.
This time last year, she was a secret no one knew, except her dad and me. This time last year, I was waiting for my first doctor appointment to hear her little heart beating.
It is so hard for me to believe she is now 6 months old. That at the beginning of this year, I was just barely starting to feel her wiggle around inside of me. That I wasn't sure if she was a she or not (and we didn't find out until she was born!). That every month or so, I waited anxiously to hear her little heartbeat. It is hard for me to believe, even though I know it's true, that I have actually gone through labor and delivery and survived the sleepless nights. It's so unbelievable to me at times that she is mine. That the wonderful little baby girl with the roly-poly arms and legs sitting up on the floor playing with her toys as I write this is my sweet girl. That I am her mommy. But it's true.
She has changed my world. She has changed my life. She has changed me. She has brightened my world. She has improved (and sometimes complicated) my life. She has made me a better person. She has taught me how to be more patient, more loving, more compassionate. She has given me reasons to work on being more kind, less judgmental. More positive, and less pessimistic. To really examine myself so that I can work on being the best example for her I can be.
She puts a smile on my face faster and easier than anyone or anything else in the whole world... And she does it just by being herself.
It's hard to explain, really, but since having her, I think I feel more deeply.
I am grateful every single day for this precious life that has been entrusted to my care. I feel inadequate more often than not. But I feel blessed. And thankful. Though I can clearly remember what life was like before she was here, I can't imagine life without her from here on out. Nor do I want to. I hoped for so long to have a baby -- and feared for so long it would never be. She helps make my dreams come true.
I have much to be thankful for. Much that makes my life blessed. And my sweet Lynnaea is at the top of that list, every day. And so, this Thanksgiving, I give thanks for all my blessings. But especially for her.
What are you grateful for today?
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
Home-Made New York Style Bagels (and the Friend Who Showed Me How!)
So I swore up and down I wouldn't make these again. Especially all by myself. Don't get me wrong: it's not because they aren't completely chewy-delicious. They just require a large time commitment. And I was pretty sure I didn't want to commit that much time to it ever again.
But then, for some reason, I have been craving a really good bagel lately. I'm a bagel girl quite often. That's another thing I used to have almost every morning when I was working: a bagel with cream cheese. And usually I just go with those store-bought (sometimes from the day old bread store...) multi-packs. Easy.
Then, one day, my friend Ani (who has since committed the ultimate no-no and moved halfway across the country... ;)) mentioned that she had an awesome bagel recipe -- and she'd be happy to come over and help me make them. I was a pretty hungry preggo woman back then -- with no job and not much to do. So I was all for this experience -- especially since it resulted in yumm-o bagels! We ended up quadrupling the recipe (well, okay, we made double the recipe twice). And though not technically hard, it does take time. And it does dirty a lot of dishes.
But the end result is so fantastic. I ended up with 30-something bagels of different varieties. I sliced them all, plastic-wrapped them, and froze them. And enjoyed eating them over time.
And swore I'd never do it again. Especially by myself.
Just one more time I have learned to "never say never" (ack! split infinitive... my Grammar teacher would so not approve...). Because some cravings just drive you to do crazy things.
Like make more of these bagels.
And sure, it wasn't nearly as fun making them alone as it was with a friend. And these aren't nearly as pretty as the ones I made with Ani, because I'm more impatient. But I survived -- and I'm eating one now. And it turned out yummy :).
So, thank you Ani... You are awesome -- and so are the bagels. And I'm grateful for you both!
The recipe can be found here. I recommend you at least double the recipe, because it's an awful lot of work for just 8 bagels -- even if they are phenomenal.
What are you grateful for today?
Tuesday, November 26, 2013
My Sense of Smell (and Taste!)
About once or twice a year, usually when the seasons change significantly, I come down with a mild cold. Mostly it's just pesky. And usually, for at least one day, I lose my sniffer. And, sadly, my taster as well.
It's looking like I'm heading into that time period as I type. Blah.
On the up-side, it did make me remember how grateful I am for my sense of smell. Both for the fact that I can enjoy pleasant aromas and for the fact that I can taste deliciousness!
True, having a stuffed-up nose does make poopy-diaper changes a little less unpleasant. And there are a few other instances when I wouldn't mind not being able to smell.
But for the most part, I love that I can enjoy scents such as flowers, fresh-baked cookies, home-made bread baking, my baby's "baby smell," the smell of my husband's deodorant (which just makes me think of him!).
I'm glad I can determine if I smell stinky and need a bath and deodorant ;)!
And I'm glad I can taste such wonderful things like fresh-baked cookies, home-made bread, mint hot chocolate, oranges, cheesy potato soup....
I don't know if there are some people who do not have the ability to smell and taste, if there are people born without the privilege. But I do know I'm grateful that I can do both (on most days ;)). Because what a wonderful world of smells and tastes I would miss out on, if it were not so!
What are you grateful for today?
It's looking like I'm heading into that time period as I type. Blah.
On the up-side, it did make me remember how grateful I am for my sense of smell. Both for the fact that I can enjoy pleasant aromas and for the fact that I can taste deliciousness!
True, having a stuffed-up nose does make poopy-diaper changes a little less unpleasant. And there are a few other instances when I wouldn't mind not being able to smell.
But for the most part, I love that I can enjoy scents such as flowers, fresh-baked cookies, home-made bread baking, my baby's "baby smell," the smell of my husband's deodorant (which just makes me think of him!).
I'm glad I can determine if I smell stinky and need a bath and deodorant ;)!
And I'm glad I can taste such wonderful things like fresh-baked cookies, home-made bread, mint hot chocolate, oranges, cheesy potato soup....
I don't know if there are some people who do not have the ability to smell and taste, if there are people born without the privilege. But I do know I'm grateful that I can do both (on most days ;)). Because what a wonderful world of smells and tastes I would miss out on, if it were not so!
What are you grateful for today?
Monday, November 25, 2013
Cuties (or "Those Little Oranges")
I don't know why, but I love these little oranges. I love that they are easy to peel. I love that they are almost always seedless. I love that they are small. And full of flavor (usually). And healthy.
I ate a ton of these things when I was pregnant. In my efforts to curb my even-more-sweet-than-usual sweet tooth with something healthy.
I always get excited when I start seeing them for sale again in the stores! And then they go on my grocery list pretty much until their season is over again.
I know it's a pretty small thing to be grateful for... But I am a firm believer that so often the small things are the things that add big joys to life!
What are you grateful for today?
Sunday, November 24, 2013
Primary Program Sunday
Today was the Primary Program during Sacrament meeting at church. And it was awesome.
I used to work with the Primary kids at church (kids ages 3 to 11), and I can say they are amazing. Smart, sweet, funny, fun, and so many other things. Though I've never hustled so much in my life (the weeks I had to teach always found me standing in front of the younger group, sweating like crazy for some reason... I think it's all the energy!), I have to say that serving in Primary with those wonderful kids was one of my favorite callings ever. They truly are amazing. They say the darndest things (as the saying goes). But they are so smart -- and like little sponges. Soaking up everything.
After 2 years of working with the kids, I was released from my calling in Primary, because I was about to have a little one of my own.
But today, I got to see all the kids in Sacrament meeting as they talked and sang -- teaching us the things they have been learning. And it was just so sweet. I love to hear their little voices from the front of the chapel, coming through the microphone. I love to watch them stand and sing the songs that they have been learning all year. There's just something special about Primary Program Sunday -- and everyone seems to feel it. Because everyone seems to be just a little more attentive... a little more focused on the pulpit as the children take their turns. And the kids just shine with happiness and excitement and joy as they say their part and sit back down.
I just get the warm fuzzies... And today I did. I'm grateful I was able to be there to enjoy it.
What are you grateful for today?
I used to work with the Primary kids at church (kids ages 3 to 11), and I can say they are amazing. Smart, sweet, funny, fun, and so many other things. Though I've never hustled so much in my life (the weeks I had to teach always found me standing in front of the younger group, sweating like crazy for some reason... I think it's all the energy!), I have to say that serving in Primary with those wonderful kids was one of my favorite callings ever. They truly are amazing. They say the darndest things (as the saying goes). But they are so smart -- and like little sponges. Soaking up everything.
After 2 years of working with the kids, I was released from my calling in Primary, because I was about to have a little one of my own.
But today, I got to see all the kids in Sacrament meeting as they talked and sang -- teaching us the things they have been learning. And it was just so sweet. I love to hear their little voices from the front of the chapel, coming through the microphone. I love to watch them stand and sing the songs that they have been learning all year. There's just something special about Primary Program Sunday -- and everyone seems to feel it. Because everyone seems to be just a little more attentive... a little more focused on the pulpit as the children take their turns. And the kids just shine with happiness and excitement and joy as they say their part and sit back down.
I just get the warm fuzzies... And today I did. I'm grateful I was able to be there to enjoy it.
What are you grateful for today?
Awesome Parents-in-Law
We spent the majority of today at my husband's parents' house. And we got home way passed munchkin's bedtime. And she had a rough time going down. Which is rare for her. Thus, this post is going to be brief (and it's also technically written on the 24th...).
I do have to say that, when it comes to parents-in-law, I feel like I hit the jackpot in so many ways. Because mine are awesome.
My mother-in-law is a strong woman with a ton of experience in things like sewing, gardening, living frugally, canning, and food storage (yeah, they kind of go hand-in-hand, but they don't necessarily have to...). Seriously, she is an amazing woman. She is so thoughtful, always making sure to send a card for special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries -- and she hand-makes each one! She has a neat tradition for birthday cards for her grand-kids, and I have to admit, I'm pretty excited to start saving up our sweet girl's for her for when she's old enough to understand it. I'm grateful to have this wonderful woman as an example and a source.
My father-in-law is reserved and observant. And he is so wonderful with our baby girl. I will never forget the way his face lit up when he walked into our hospital room to see his newest grand-daughter for the first time. It melted my heart. It is a joy to see him interact with her and I am so grateful we live close enough that this can happen often(ish). I always enjoy sitting down to talk with my father-in-law and getting to know him more and more. And I realize that he is very wise.
And these two wonderful people raised a really wonderful man: my husband. Actually, it can be argued (and will be) that they actually raised 5 wonderful men. And they did. They instilled in my husband the value of hard work. They also instilled in him the value of a dollar and how important it is to be self-reliant. And I am so grateful that they did. What a blessing to know them; what a blessing to call the family.
What are you grateful for today?
I do have to say that, when it comes to parents-in-law, I feel like I hit the jackpot in so many ways. Because mine are awesome.
My mother-in-law is a strong woman with a ton of experience in things like sewing, gardening, living frugally, canning, and food storage (yeah, they kind of go hand-in-hand, but they don't necessarily have to...). Seriously, she is an amazing woman. She is so thoughtful, always making sure to send a card for special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries -- and she hand-makes each one! She has a neat tradition for birthday cards for her grand-kids, and I have to admit, I'm pretty excited to start saving up our sweet girl's for her for when she's old enough to understand it. I'm grateful to have this wonderful woman as an example and a source.
My father-in-law is reserved and observant. And he is so wonderful with our baby girl. I will never forget the way his face lit up when he walked into our hospital room to see his newest grand-daughter for the first time. It melted my heart. It is a joy to see him interact with her and I am so grateful we live close enough that this can happen often(ish). I always enjoy sitting down to talk with my father-in-law and getting to know him more and more. And I realize that he is very wise.
And these two wonderful people raised a really wonderful man: my husband. Actually, it can be argued (and will be) that they actually raised 5 wonderful men. And they did. They instilled in my husband the value of hard work. They also instilled in him the value of a dollar and how important it is to be self-reliant. And I am so grateful that they did. What a blessing to know them; what a blessing to call the family.
What are you grateful for today?
Friday, November 22, 2013
My "Little" Brother Brad
The truth is, I can't remember life without my brother Brad. He was born not quite 13 months after me -- on November 22nd -- (and now that I totally understand what it is to have a baby, I think my mom was either crazy or super-mom...), so Brad's always just been there.
As siblings do, we've had our close times and our not-so-close times. But mostly we've been close.
And hopefully I don't embarrass him with some of my memories. I don't think I will. But you just never know.
So, I don't remember this, but according to my dad, I was kind of like Brad's security blanket when we were little kids. I guess he figured he was safe as long as I was around. The only evidence I've seen that this is true is on an old family video of our birthday party (I was turning 3 and he 2, I believe). He'd been hanging around me, and then I walked away. He started to look really sad and uncertain, and my dad ended up calling him over. I don't know if Brad was feeling scared because I left or not, but my dad says that was the case.
I remember feeling protective of Brad when we were growing up. His first day of kindergarten was a hard one for him -- because he didn't go to pre-school, and had never been away from my mom. As such, he cried a lot and made himself sick. I don't remember a lot of details about that, but I know I was distraught over the whole thing.
Of course, I also remember slapping him to make sure "all the laughs were out of" him (so we could sneak downstairs and spy on my dad watching TV). Just FYI -- all the laughs were not out of him until the 4th or 5th slap. (Yes, yes, apparently I was a cruel sister...).
And I remember the time he tried to squeeze gak through the holes of a cotton blanket because his friend Tommy had done so with his nylon football jersey (the results were not consistent...). And being the awesome sister I am, I laughed at him until he was so mad he kicked me out of his room... until I threatened to tell our dad. (Good news: the gak came out in the wash).
I remember Brad being friends with a kid at church I had a major crush on, and so Brad would invite him to come over and spend the night. (Yes, this was a time when I actually told him about my crush -- and he was a good brother... he kept it on the DL).
And I remember there came a day when my "little" brother wasn't so little anymore. So I had to stop calling him that. He's now taller than I am. And stronger too. I learned that lesson during one of our teenage-years fights... And he learned that a Physiology book is pretty hefty and not a fun thing to get smacked with. Hmmm... I should have been nicer.
Sometimes, when Brad was stationed overseas (like in Turkey), he would call me in his free time. And that meant a lot to me.
Brad has an ability to make me laugh like no one else. And it's always with the stupidest stuff ever. Like years ago, when we lived in Panama, there was this stuff called MILO, and it was a type of chocolate malt mix. And it didn't seem to mix in very well -- it always had this thick layer of the stuff floating on top of the milk. And so one day, Brad spooned some up and said, "Hey, you want a bite of my MILO?" And I don't know why that was even funny, but it hilarious. And we still laugh about it. So when I saw a can of it at Wal-Mart in Dothan while we were down there, I totally took a cell phone picture and sent it to him with that quote.
Brad also had an annoying tendency to make up lyrics to songs. Annoying lyrics. For a short time, he was always inserting the word "phone" into the song -- and it irritated me. For example, Chris Isaac's song "Somebody's Cryin'"... Brad would sing, "So please... Return the [phone] you took from me." He thought it was hilarious. Probably more because it irritated me than anything else.
And I know that I was really glad that Brad was right there to start a new high school with me when we moved to Dothan before my Senior year. I had someone to eat lunch with, and so did he. We didn't feel quite so alone in a new school.
So, honestly, the list could go on. Thirtysomething (yikes! are we really that old?) years will do that for you... I just love my "little" brother. And I'm grateful for him. Even though I probably haven't taken the time to really tell him that lately. He has added a lot of fun to my life. And I appreciate him and the closeness we've shared over the years. I miss him living close. And I wish I'd have taken advantage more of when he was here. But I'm still grateful for the memories -- and the hope of being able to make many more.
Happy Birthday, Bradymus. You rock.
What are you grateful for today?
As siblings do, we've had our close times and our not-so-close times. But mostly we've been close.
And hopefully I don't embarrass him with some of my memories. I don't think I will. But you just never know.
So, I don't remember this, but according to my dad, I was kind of like Brad's security blanket when we were little kids. I guess he figured he was safe as long as I was around. The only evidence I've seen that this is true is on an old family video of our birthday party (I was turning 3 and he 2, I believe). He'd been hanging around me, and then I walked away. He started to look really sad and uncertain, and my dad ended up calling him over. I don't know if Brad was feeling scared because I left or not, but my dad says that was the case.
I remember feeling protective of Brad when we were growing up. His first day of kindergarten was a hard one for him -- because he didn't go to pre-school, and had never been away from my mom. As such, he cried a lot and made himself sick. I don't remember a lot of details about that, but I know I was distraught over the whole thing.
Of course, I also remember slapping him to make sure "all the laughs were out of" him (so we could sneak downstairs and spy on my dad watching TV). Just FYI -- all the laughs were not out of him until the 4th or 5th slap. (Yes, yes, apparently I was a cruel sister...).
And I remember the time he tried to squeeze gak through the holes of a cotton blanket because his friend Tommy had done so with his nylon football jersey (the results were not consistent...). And being the awesome sister I am, I laughed at him until he was so mad he kicked me out of his room... until I threatened to tell our dad. (Good news: the gak came out in the wash).
I remember Brad being friends with a kid at church I had a major crush on, and so Brad would invite him to come over and spend the night. (Yes, this was a time when I actually told him about my crush -- and he was a good brother... he kept it on the DL).
And I remember there came a day when my "little" brother wasn't so little anymore. So I had to stop calling him that. He's now taller than I am. And stronger too. I learned that lesson during one of our teenage-years fights... And he learned that a Physiology book is pretty hefty and not a fun thing to get smacked with. Hmmm... I should have been nicer.
Sometimes, when Brad was stationed overseas (like in Turkey), he would call me in his free time. And that meant a lot to me.
Brad has an ability to make me laugh like no one else. And it's always with the stupidest stuff ever. Like years ago, when we lived in Panama, there was this stuff called MILO, and it was a type of chocolate malt mix. And it didn't seem to mix in very well -- it always had this thick layer of the stuff floating on top of the milk. And so one day, Brad spooned some up and said, "Hey, you want a bite of my MILO?" And I don't know why that was even funny, but it hilarious. And we still laugh about it. So when I saw a can of it at Wal-Mart in Dothan while we were down there, I totally took a cell phone picture and sent it to him with that quote.
Brad also had an annoying tendency to make up lyrics to songs. Annoying lyrics. For a short time, he was always inserting the word "phone" into the song -- and it irritated me. For example, Chris Isaac's song "Somebody's Cryin'"... Brad would sing, "So please... Return the [phone] you took from me." He thought it was hilarious. Probably more because it irritated me than anything else.
And I know that I was really glad that Brad was right there to start a new high school with me when we moved to Dothan before my Senior year. I had someone to eat lunch with, and so did he. We didn't feel quite so alone in a new school.
So, honestly, the list could go on. Thirtysomething (yikes! are we really that old?) years will do that for you... I just love my "little" brother. And I'm grateful for him. Even though I probably haven't taken the time to really tell him that lately. He has added a lot of fun to my life. And I appreciate him and the closeness we've shared over the years. I miss him living close. And I wish I'd have taken advantage more of when he was here. But I'm still grateful for the memories -- and the hope of being able to make many more.
Happy Birthday, Bradymus. You rock.
What are you grateful for today?
Thursday, November 21, 2013
Our Safe, Warm Shelter
It's cold outside. Last night, it got down to freezing. And I'm pretty sure it will get there again tonight.
But I had no idea how cold it was last night, because I was safe and warm inside our apartment. It wasn't until we went on an early afternoon walk (because it was beautiful outside -- and I had no idea the temperature!) that I realized just how cold it was! Because it was still cold at 1:00 this afternoon.
And when we walked back in the door after our 10 minute walk as a family... Oh the warmth felt so amazingly good. And I just knew that needed to be my "grateful" for today.
Because it is such a blessing to have a safe place to live. A place to shelter us from really cold nights and blustery winds. A place we can work to make a sanctuary and a safe place spiritually and emotionally as well as temporally and physically. A place to call our own -- a place to make our home.
It's kind of funny.... I walk in and out of our apartment almost every day. And it isn't often that I realize what a blessing it is that we have such a nice place to live. But it's definitely a wonderful thing that we have a roof over our heads, walls to keep out the weather, and warmth to keep us... well, warm.
It makes my life happy and cozy and comfortable. It makes my little girl's life safe.
And for those things, I am grateful.
What are you grateful for today?
But I had no idea how cold it was last night, because I was safe and warm inside our apartment. It wasn't until we went on an early afternoon walk (because it was beautiful outside -- and I had no idea the temperature!) that I realized just how cold it was! Because it was still cold at 1:00 this afternoon.
And when we walked back in the door after our 10 minute walk as a family... Oh the warmth felt so amazingly good. And I just knew that needed to be my "grateful" for today.
Because it is such a blessing to have a safe place to live. A place to shelter us from really cold nights and blustery winds. A place we can work to make a sanctuary and a safe place spiritually and emotionally as well as temporally and physically. A place to call our own -- a place to make our home.
It's kind of funny.... I walk in and out of our apartment almost every day. And it isn't often that I realize what a blessing it is that we have such a nice place to live. But it's definitely a wonderful thing that we have a roof over our heads, walls to keep out the weather, and warmth to keep us... well, warm.
It makes my life happy and cozy and comfortable. It makes my little girl's life safe.
And for those things, I am grateful.
What are you grateful for today?
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
I seriously don't have a creative or crafty bone in my body.
And that's one reason I love Pinterest (and was easily sucked in!). Because I can copy other people's creativity (well, sometimes ;)...).
I have pinned ideas for the Halloween party, Christmas presents, fun for kids...
...And food. Oh my goodness, have I ever pinned some food. And I've tried a lot of them -- and found several I love! Last year (and now this year), I have found a lot of ideas for Christmas goodies :). I'm looking forward to those!
And since it's been a long day, and my brain has pretty much already shut off, I'll just link a few of the things I've done and liked (food and otherwise!).
Pecan Pralines
"I Love You because..." frame
Frozen Hot Chocolate
Chicken, Broccoli, and Cheese Skillet
Candy Corn Fruit Cups
Memory Jar
Almond Poppyseed Bread
Pink Hot Chocolate
So there you have it... Several things I've found on Pinterest that have been helpful to and enjoyed by me!
I'm grateful for a site like Pinterest to collect good ideas (or whatever) all in one place. And I'm so grateful for all those people who have the creativity and craftiness and talents that I don't -- and who are willing to share them!
What are you grateful for today?
And that's one reason I love Pinterest (and was easily sucked in!). Because I can copy other people's creativity (well, sometimes ;)...).
I have pinned ideas for the Halloween party, Christmas presents, fun for kids...
...And food. Oh my goodness, have I ever pinned some food. And I've tried a lot of them -- and found several I love! Last year (and now this year), I have found a lot of ideas for Christmas goodies :). I'm looking forward to those!
And since it's been a long day, and my brain has pretty much already shut off, I'll just link a few of the things I've done and liked (food and otherwise!).
Pecan Pralines
"I Love You because..." frame
Frozen Hot Chocolate
Chicken, Broccoli, and Cheese Skillet
Candy Corn Fruit Cups
Memory Jar
Almond Poppyseed Bread
Pink Hot Chocolate
So there you have it... Several things I've found on Pinterest that have been helpful to and enjoyed by me!
I'm grateful for a site like Pinterest to collect good ideas (or whatever) all in one place. And I'm so grateful for all those people who have the creativity and craftiness and talents that I don't -- and who are willing to share them!
What are you grateful for today?
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
Libraries
I love libraries.
I could just stop there, but I won't.
I have used libraries for as long as I can remember. The first library was the one on Fort Clayton in Panama. I can remember going upstairs to the children's section and reading picture books. And then, as I got older, I remember using the encyclopedia for a couple of school reports (one of which was on Sweden). As time went on, they also started housing their videos up there, and we would go and check out VHS tapes.
Then I got really old and had to start typing up my reports, rather than just hand-writing them. And that was a time when we might have had a computer, but it was an old Apple-type with green print on the screen; and then I don't think we had a printer. Because I remember going to the library (again on Fort Clayton) and hunting and pecking my way through a paper on Agatha Christie's And Then There Were None for Mrs. McDade's 8th-grade English class. (Fortunately I learned to type the following year in high school!)
I also remember checking out CDs from that library, and books on hermit crabs -- after we managed to kill several of them and not being able to figure out why... Turns out we were trying to make pets out of the wrong kind -- the saltwater kind. And they didn't take too well to the fresh water we offered them. After reading up on things, we knew how to catch the fresh-water crabs -- at night, with coconut, along the Causeway.
Then we moved to Dothan. And guess where my very first job was... Yep, a library. I was a children's room worker, and I had an awesome boss. And that's when I realized libraries weren't just great fonts of information -- they were also awesomely fun. For real. And maybe part of that is the people with whom I worked... But I still attribute it to libraries, because they clearly attract some of the coolest people ever. Because every library I've worked in has had just such people -- and I've worked in several libraries. And I planned to make that my career (if I didn't get my first choice of getting married and being a stay-at-home mom); so I got my degree to become a professional librarian.
And okay, so it never happened that way. But I still love libraries. I love that I can get any book I want to read (pretty much) and it's free (as long as I return it on time!). I love that I can borrow movies of all kinds and TV shows -- and I've been doing that a lot lately (including today -- and the movie I'm currently watching -- The Day After Tomorrow -- has a library that saves people's lives. I'm just sayin'.). And it's free! I love that, in the digital age, I have access to all sorts of information through the virtual library collection. And I also love that I can download some songs I like -- for free -- and to keep! All because of libraries.
And yeah, I know there are predictions out there that libraries will one day disappear. But they've been saying that for decades (I learned that in library school). And maybe I'll be proven wrong... But I, for one, will always enjoy the feel of a book in my hand -- even if it is cool to have like a kajillion books on one electronic gadget. There's just something timeless about turning pages of paper. And, the technology of paper never becomes incompatible ;).
So yeah, I totally love libraries. They rock. Always. And I'm grateful for libraries -- for the memories, the tools, the pleasures, the entertainment. I plan to be a library patron for the rest of my life, and I hope that it's always an option!
What are you grateful for today?
I could just stop there, but I won't.
I have used libraries for as long as I can remember. The first library was the one on Fort Clayton in Panama. I can remember going upstairs to the children's section and reading picture books. And then, as I got older, I remember using the encyclopedia for a couple of school reports (one of which was on Sweden). As time went on, they also started housing their videos up there, and we would go and check out VHS tapes.
Then I got really old and had to start typing up my reports, rather than just hand-writing them. And that was a time when we might have had a computer, but it was an old Apple-type with green print on the screen; and then I don't think we had a printer. Because I remember going to the library (again on Fort Clayton) and hunting and pecking my way through a paper on Agatha Christie's And Then There Were None for Mrs. McDade's 8th-grade English class. (Fortunately I learned to type the following year in high school!)
I also remember checking out CDs from that library, and books on hermit crabs -- after we managed to kill several of them and not being able to figure out why... Turns out we were trying to make pets out of the wrong kind -- the saltwater kind. And they didn't take too well to the fresh water we offered them. After reading up on things, we knew how to catch the fresh-water crabs -- at night, with coconut, along the Causeway.
Then we moved to Dothan. And guess where my very first job was... Yep, a library. I was a children's room worker, and I had an awesome boss. And that's when I realized libraries weren't just great fonts of information -- they were also awesomely fun. For real. And maybe part of that is the people with whom I worked... But I still attribute it to libraries, because they clearly attract some of the coolest people ever. Because every library I've worked in has had just such people -- and I've worked in several libraries. And I planned to make that my career (if I didn't get my first choice of getting married and being a stay-at-home mom); so I got my degree to become a professional librarian.
And okay, so it never happened that way. But I still love libraries. I love that I can get any book I want to read (pretty much) and it's free (as long as I return it on time!). I love that I can borrow movies of all kinds and TV shows -- and I've been doing that a lot lately (including today -- and the movie I'm currently watching -- The Day After Tomorrow -- has a library that saves people's lives. I'm just sayin'.). And it's free! I love that, in the digital age, I have access to all sorts of information through the virtual library collection. And I also love that I can download some songs I like -- for free -- and to keep! All because of libraries.
And yeah, I know there are predictions out there that libraries will one day disappear. But they've been saying that for decades (I learned that in library school). And maybe I'll be proven wrong... But I, for one, will always enjoy the feel of a book in my hand -- even if it is cool to have like a kajillion books on one electronic gadget. There's just something timeless about turning pages of paper. And, the technology of paper never becomes incompatible ;).
So yeah, I totally love libraries. They rock. Always. And I'm grateful for libraries -- for the memories, the tools, the pleasures, the entertainment. I plan to be a library patron for the rest of my life, and I hope that it's always an option!
What are you grateful for today?
Monday, November 18, 2013
Our Comfy Bed
In case you needed a good laugh today, I can give you one... So you know what my husband and I purchased on our wedding day?
A mattress.
Prior to that, when we were both living the single life in our own places, I had an air mattress (made for one person), and he was sleeping on a foam pad.
Based on that, I think the mattress was a good purchase.
But we still didn't have a bed. And the little house I had been renting (and to which he moved into when we got married) was very small (just over 500 square feet). And we needed some serious storage, especially once all of his stuff was added to mine! So my husband designed and built our bed -- with storage underneath and on top. And then he added "air conditioning" (a fan he hung) for those warm Summer nights. :). It makes all the difference.
I'm grateful for the bed. I am grateful that I've pretty much always had a bed of sorts for sleeping. It is one of those things I don't often think of on my list of things for which I'm grateful. And that's because, like so many other things I enjoy, I've pretty much always had one.
But I am grateful to have a soft, but firm, place to rest my tired body every night. And I'm grateful that I have a bed that is easy to get into and out of a million times when I'm pregnant (because don't all we women know that's what happens eventually?). I'm grateful I have sheets to put on it to keep it clean (even if they do create more laundry ;)). I'm grateful for pillows (because I always sleep with 2 of them). I'm grateful I can snuggle in all warm and cozy on cold Fall nights.
I'm grateful for this comfort -- because that is what it is. I could sleep on the floor. But how grateful I am that I don't have to.
P.S... Please excuse that adorable little butterball on the bed... She happens to like it too ;).
What are you grateful for today?
Sunday, November 17, 2013
Jeni E
I don't know why, exactly, but Jeni has been on my mind quite a bit the last few weeks. She is one of the wonderful people I met in Tuscaloosa; and though we aren't geographically near each other anymore, and we mostly keep in touch through facebook and blogs, I know she was placed in my life as a blessing from Heavenly Father. And I am forever grateful for that.
Jeni and I met when we were assigned as Visiting Teaching companions for church. And let me just say that Jeni is an awesome visiting teacher. She was a great example to me in that area -- and though I have not made many improvements as a visiting teacher, I do want to one day live up to the example she set for me.
And so, yet again, Visiting Teaching brought me a sweet friendship. A sweet friendship during a time of my life when I was lonely and feeling alone. When we would go out Visiting Teaching on Sunday afternoons, Jeni would always invite me to stay for dinner with her family. And it was always so nice. For one thing, this girl can cook! I have gotten several of my most popular recipes from her. And I can't think about (or make) oreo truffles, bacon-cheese mini appetizers, or broccoli with cashews in garlic butter sauce without thinking of her. But more importantly, Jeni made me feel welcome in her home. It felt like home. And that meant a lot to me, especially at that time in my life.
Jeni is out-going and friendly to everyone. Another way she is a great example to me. Because, though I don't think I'm a rude person, I definitely don't go out of my comfort zone and approach people to say hello. I'm more of the wallflower type when I'm in a group of people I don't know. Or even when I'm in a familiar place full of familiar faces and there are a few new faces.
I consider Jeni one of my "fru-fru" friends. And by this, I mean someone who has that knack for making a home look homey and feel warm and inviting. Someone who enjoys pampering and such. I often joke that I didn't get that girl gene. I would be a terrible interior decorator. And I don't know anything about hair styles or fashion. And so, when I decided to get my first "real" haircut as an adult (usually my mom (or someone else) trims it straight across -- yes, I'm that fashionable) because I was losing so much of my hair and hoped a nice haircut would revitalize my hair... Well, I asked Jeni to accompany me. And she did. It's one of the best memories I have of our friendship. Because it meant a lot to me that she would recommend someone and then go with me in support of something that -- to me -- was a big deal.
And when I left Tuscaloosa, Jeni baked me a mint chocolate cake. Because she knew of my love for mint and chocolate together. And it was delicious. And she is amazing. Because she did all these things -- and more -- with two little ones to take care of. And she did it all so well. Jeni is like super-mom to me :). And I admire her so much. She truly is, to me, charity personified.
So, though we are miles away from each other now. And though we don't talk or visit as we once did... I am forever grateful that I met Jeni and that she was (and is) my friend. And I am grateful for a loving Heavenly Father who knew I needed a friend like Jeni -- and who placed her in my path once upon a time in Tuscaloosa.
Jeni and I met when we were assigned as Visiting Teaching companions for church. And let me just say that Jeni is an awesome visiting teacher. She was a great example to me in that area -- and though I have not made many improvements as a visiting teacher, I do want to one day live up to the example she set for me.
And so, yet again, Visiting Teaching brought me a sweet friendship. A sweet friendship during a time of my life when I was lonely and feeling alone. When we would go out Visiting Teaching on Sunday afternoons, Jeni would always invite me to stay for dinner with her family. And it was always so nice. For one thing, this girl can cook! I have gotten several of my most popular recipes from her. And I can't think about (or make) oreo truffles, bacon-cheese mini appetizers, or broccoli with cashews in garlic butter sauce without thinking of her. But more importantly, Jeni made me feel welcome in her home. It felt like home. And that meant a lot to me, especially at that time in my life.
Jeni is out-going and friendly to everyone. Another way she is a great example to me. Because, though I don't think I'm a rude person, I definitely don't go out of my comfort zone and approach people to say hello. I'm more of the wallflower type when I'm in a group of people I don't know. Or even when I'm in a familiar place full of familiar faces and there are a few new faces.
I consider Jeni one of my "fru-fru" friends. And by this, I mean someone who has that knack for making a home look homey and feel warm and inviting. Someone who enjoys pampering and such. I often joke that I didn't get that girl gene. I would be a terrible interior decorator. And I don't know anything about hair styles or fashion. And so, when I decided to get my first "real" haircut as an adult (usually my mom (or someone else) trims it straight across -- yes, I'm that fashionable) because I was losing so much of my hair and hoped a nice haircut would revitalize my hair... Well, I asked Jeni to accompany me. And she did. It's one of the best memories I have of our friendship. Because it meant a lot to me that she would recommend someone and then go with me in support of something that -- to me -- was a big deal.
And when I left Tuscaloosa, Jeni baked me a mint chocolate cake. Because she knew of my love for mint and chocolate together. And it was delicious. And she is amazing. Because she did all these things -- and more -- with two little ones to take care of. And she did it all so well. Jeni is like super-mom to me :). And I admire her so much. She truly is, to me, charity personified.
So, though we are miles away from each other now. And though we don't talk or visit as we once did... I am forever grateful that I met Jeni and that she was (and is) my friend. And I am grateful for a loving Heavenly Father who knew I needed a friend like Jeni -- and who placed her in my path once upon a time in Tuscaloosa.
Saturday, November 16, 2013
Hot Chocolate
There is just something wonderful about hot chocolate. Especially on cold nights. And especially with my sweetie while we watch some cheesy Hallmark Christmas movie. (Because we might as well start getting into the feel of Christmas, right :)?)
Truth be told, when I was still working, I had hot chocolate every. single. morning. Even in the summer. Some may say that's called an addiction. I just call it yummy.
My mom used to send me Land-o-Lakes packets -- all different flavors -- when I still lived in Alabama. We didn't get those down there for some reason. My favorite is the mint chocolate.
Last year I learned that if you buy the Nestle hot chocolate mix at Costco and just add significantly more hot cocoa mix than water, you get some really good rich stuff. I had it at a Relief Society activity, and I went back for seconds. It was so good. Then I served it at a craft get-together at my house in January. It was that good.
But tonight I made the home-made stove-top recipe found on the Hershey's container (this is one of my favorites). And we used almond extract -- because I love that flavor (and smell). I should get some mint extract one of these days. Because I do so love chocolate and mint together.
Yep, it almost doesn't matter what kind, I love hot chocolate. And I love sipping it on cold nights. It just makes me feel like Christmas :).
What are you grateful for today?
Truth be told, when I was still working, I had hot chocolate every. single. morning. Even in the summer. Some may say that's called an addiction. I just call it yummy.
My mom used to send me Land-o-Lakes packets -- all different flavors -- when I still lived in Alabama. We didn't get those down there for some reason. My favorite is the mint chocolate.
Last year I learned that if you buy the Nestle hot chocolate mix at Costco and just add significantly more hot cocoa mix than water, you get some really good rich stuff. I had it at a Relief Society activity, and I went back for seconds. It was so good. Then I served it at a craft get-together at my house in January. It was that good.
But tonight I made the home-made stove-top recipe found on the Hershey's container (this is one of my favorites). And we used almond extract -- because I love that flavor (and smell). I should get some mint extract one of these days. Because I do so love chocolate and mint together.
Yep, it almost doesn't matter what kind, I love hot chocolate. And I love sipping it on cold nights. It just makes me feel like Christmas :).
What are you grateful for today?
Friday, November 15, 2013
Baby (and Mommy) Play-Dates
Today we enjoyed some company -- and some hot chocolate to boot :).
See, there were several of us pregnant at the same time in my church congregation (Ward). And it was really a nice thing. We would compare notes as our pregnancies progressed. We attended each other's baby showers. Most of us were going to be having a baby for the first time. And it was just all-around nice to have that camaraderie of going through things together. At least that's how I felt. I can remember as d-day approached for each of us (I was #3 out of 5, so right in the middle!), I would think, "Well, she made it through... My turn is getting closer." Seeing the two before me 'survive' the whole labor process (both of them were also first-time moms) gave me hope that I would survive too. Haha... I guess that sounds funny. But I was treading in unknown territory. And it was just comforting to see the others make it through! (Yes, I know women have been doing this from the beginning of time, but still.)
Anyway, so now a few of us get together every so often with our babies. Two boys and a girl (in fact, of those 5 who were pregnant at the same time, I was the only one who had a baby girl). And today was one of those baby (or mommy) play dates. And it's still just nice to sit and talk with women who are going through a lot of the same things as you. You can discuss things like teething, sleeping, milestones, weight, doctor's appointments, etc.
And it's so fun to see these adorable babies together -- especially now that they are actually aware of things! Today my little girl was absolutely smitten with those two handsome boys who came over and "played." She sat -- supported by her Boppy -- for two hours and just watched happily, occasionally reaching for toys. She was seriously enthralled. And even did a little bit of talking with them.
It was just so cute. And such a nice "mommy-break" where we could all visit and enjoy some adult conversation while the babies were happy.
Yeah, these kinds of things just make my day. And I'm grateful they can happen every now and again.
What are you grateful for today?
See, there were several of us pregnant at the same time in my church congregation (Ward). And it was really a nice thing. We would compare notes as our pregnancies progressed. We attended each other's baby showers. Most of us were going to be having a baby for the first time. And it was just all-around nice to have that camaraderie of going through things together. At least that's how I felt. I can remember as d-day approached for each of us (I was #3 out of 5, so right in the middle!), I would think, "Well, she made it through... My turn is getting closer." Seeing the two before me 'survive' the whole labor process (both of them were also first-time moms) gave me hope that I would survive too. Haha... I guess that sounds funny. But I was treading in unknown territory. And it was just comforting to see the others make it through! (Yes, I know women have been doing this from the beginning of time, but still.)
Anyway, so now a few of us get together every so often with our babies. Two boys and a girl (in fact, of those 5 who were pregnant at the same time, I was the only one who had a baby girl). And today was one of those baby (or mommy) play dates. And it's still just nice to sit and talk with women who are going through a lot of the same things as you. You can discuss things like teething, sleeping, milestones, weight, doctor's appointments, etc.
And it's so fun to see these adorable babies together -- especially now that they are actually aware of things! Today my little girl was absolutely smitten with those two handsome boys who came over and "played." She sat -- supported by her Boppy -- for two hours and just watched happily, occasionally reaching for toys. She was seriously enthralled. And even did a little bit of talking with them.
It was just so cute. And such a nice "mommy-break" where we could all visit and enjoy some adult conversation while the babies were happy.
Yeah, these kinds of things just make my day. And I'm grateful they can happen every now and again.
What are you grateful for today?
Thursday, November 14, 2013
Warm Fuzzy Socks
I get cold feet. Like seriously cold. Like ice cubes. You can ask my husband.
So when Fall starts rolling around in the Pacific Northwest and the days get chilly fast... Well, my feet do too.
And that's where warm fuzzy socks come in to rock the Nilla Life. Because don't they just look so cozy!?! I have several pairs, given to me by my aunt and some friends, and I will be wearing them until sometime in April, I'm sure. I love it.
And I'm grateful I have them. Because any socks would be helpful. But warm fuzzy socks? Yeah, they are the awesomest ;).
What are you grateful for today?
Wednesday, November 13, 2013
Stacy T
Talented. Strong. Faithful. Creative. Reserved. Wise.
Did I mention incredibly talented?
These are words I use to describe my friend Stacy. She is amazing. She is another of my Alabama friends. Another of those reasons I hold Alabama so dear. One of those people I must see whenever I return. Stacy is part of many of my most favorite memories from my years in Alabama. And I am so grateful to have enjoyed her friendship these many years -- and that she remains among my dearest friends.
Stacy and I were visiting teaching companions in our younger days. And I honestly can't say when our friendship blossomed. But it did. And I am glad.
I have been blessed by Stacy's many talents. She has created treasured keepsakes for me over the years -- from a "Party Chick" at my going-away party to Twilight goodies (with authentic Forks stuff!) to a collage to remind me of going through the Temple for the first time. Her skills truly amaze me.
She took beautiful pictures of my then-boyfriend, now-husband and I when we went down to visit my dad. And I am always amazed by her photography. She has an eye for detail and manages to snap some of the most wonderful shots. Some posed, others not. But always beautiful. Always capturing something special.
Stacy is kind and giving. Willing to share -- and not just her talents. (She lent us the stroller that our munchkin-girl enjoyed wheeling around in while we were in Alabama).
Stacy is a great example to me. I will never forget going on a youth Temple trip and walking into the baptistry and seeing Stacy and her husband in all white. And I knew in that moment that I aspired to have what they have. She was the epitome of so many of the things I hoped to become and achieve.
Yes, Stacy is just an amazing and fun friend. You can't really surprise her by flying down from Washington for her Twilight party unannounced (because she'll dream about you doing just that very thing and somehow know -- when you're hiding behind a car to jump out and say surprise! -- that you're there (though the odds would be against it)).
But you can get her to smile by eating peanut m&ms while singing Super Trooper in your best Pierce Brosnan singing voice.
And that's good enough for me :). Su-pa-pa Troo-pa-pa
What are you grateful for today?
Did I mention incredibly talented?
These are words I use to describe my friend Stacy. She is amazing. She is another of my Alabama friends. Another of those reasons I hold Alabama so dear. One of those people I must see whenever I return. Stacy is part of many of my most favorite memories from my years in Alabama. And I am so grateful to have enjoyed her friendship these many years -- and that she remains among my dearest friends.
Stacy and I were visiting teaching companions in our younger days. And I honestly can't say when our friendship blossomed. But it did. And I am glad.
I have been blessed by Stacy's many talents. She has created treasured keepsakes for me over the years -- from a "Party Chick" at my going-away party to Twilight goodies (with authentic Forks stuff!) to a collage to remind me of going through the Temple for the first time. Her skills truly amaze me.
She took beautiful pictures of my then-boyfriend, now-husband and I when we went down to visit my dad. And I am always amazed by her photography. She has an eye for detail and manages to snap some of the most wonderful shots. Some posed, others not. But always beautiful. Always capturing something special.
Stacy is kind and giving. Willing to share -- and not just her talents. (She lent us the stroller that our munchkin-girl enjoyed wheeling around in while we were in Alabama).
Stacy is a great example to me. I will never forget going on a youth Temple trip and walking into the baptistry and seeing Stacy and her husband in all white. And I knew in that moment that I aspired to have what they have. She was the epitome of so many of the things I hoped to become and achieve.
Yes, Stacy is just an amazing and fun friend. You can't really surprise her by flying down from Washington for her Twilight party unannounced (because she'll dream about you doing just that very thing and somehow know -- when you're hiding behind a car to jump out and say surprise! -- that you're there (though the odds would be against it)).
But you can get her to smile by eating peanut m&ms while singing Super Trooper in your best Pierce Brosnan singing voice.
And that's good enough for me :). Su-pa-pa Troo-pa-pa
What are you grateful for today?
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
The Ginormous Winter Squash Grown (and Given) by My In-Laws
I only wish I had thought to take a picture of the squash when it was all in one piece. Because it was huge. (This picture that shows the empty "shell" pieces isn't even showing all of them...). Oh, and I guess I'm snooty, because I only took the majority of the orange for my use. But my husband scooped out the rest -- green and all. He'll be eating that over the next week, I'm sure...
There was a time in my life when I didn't like squash of any kind (well, okay... minus pumpkin. Because I adore pumpkin pie). But when I started growing zucchini and acorn squash in my own garden, I decided I wanted to eat what I grew. And I have to say I rather like squash. So it was a treat that my in-laws sent it home with my husband the other night when he went out for a brief visit.
We ended up roasting this entire winter squash, and I mashed most of it for use in pumpkin pie and winter squash rolls. But I also pureed some of it with water and turned it into baby food! Which is why it's in the ice tray. We're freezing it so it keeps longer, and then we just take out one cube at a time! It's pretty exciting to me -- but maybe I'm just a dork ;). See, while in Alabama, I introduced our munchkin to squash. And she loves it. But I didn't see any at Wal-Mart the other day (it was probably there, but I've found having a baby along makes me take less time to look through everything if I don't spot it quickly), so I was sort of bummed. Until I realized I could make my own!! And she taste-tested some of the stuff I kept out of the ice tray for use immediately, and I'd say we have a winner!
So the way I see it, this squash saved me some money on pumpkin pies, rolls, and baby food! And made our little girl happy :).
And it gave us a little entertainment. Because this thing was not going down without a fight. As my husband was using one of our (what we thought was) sturdier knives, he had it plunged into the squash to almost the hilt. And he was pushing it down to try to cut a slit. And snap! So much for that knife. Seriously, it was crazy. That's the other picture I wish I'd have taken: The squash with 3/4 of a knife blade stuck in it and no handle... He ended up taking it out on the porch and using a hatchet. I suppose this is why my mother-in-law uses a meat cleaver when she cuts into hers...
What are you grateful for today?
Monday, November 11, 2013
Those Who Serve(d)
Where I grew up, I was surrounded by those serving in the American Armed Forces. All branches, in fact. Because of that -- and the various military bases we drove through frequently in Panama -- I still get nostalgic whenever I'm on a military facility (or anything that resembles one) now that I'm Stateside.
Despite that, the truth is that I have been sort of detached from those who serve or who have served in the Armed Forces. I guess I never really realized what a sacrifice is being made (by those serving as well as their families) -- and I took for granted the things those servicemen and women were serving for. I didn't realize (or maybe I just didn't want to realize) the horrors some of them experience. The danger. The fear. The sadness they witness. I can remember how it actually hurt me when I finally realized that my younger brother -- who served in the Air Force for several years and was sent to Iraq for a time -- had witnessed and experienced truly terrifying and sad things. How I ached for him as I felt like he had lost some of his innocence. I'm not exactly sure why, but even up to that point, I wanted to protect him from those things. Even though we were adults, he was my "little" brother.
That experience, among other things, helped me realize more of what these men and women are doing every day so that I can enjoy all that I enjoy. And I do still take it for granted, you know... The fact that I am so free. I don't even know all the ways I'm free, because they always have been a part of my life. I say that, because until I heard someone speak in church about his own experience in another country (he was there as an exchange student of sorts), it never occurred to me that there are some people who can't even leave their village without permission from the authorities -- while meanwhile I can fly across the country and not notify anyone at all. And this is because we have people who serve to protect my freedom to do so.
So I feel like this is sort of disjointed. But it's just the thoughts floating in my head. I need to do better at remembering how precious my freedoms are. And how precious are those who fight for them. Because freedom isn't free.
What are you grateful for today?
Despite that, the truth is that I have been sort of detached from those who serve or who have served in the Armed Forces. I guess I never really realized what a sacrifice is being made (by those serving as well as their families) -- and I took for granted the things those servicemen and women were serving for. I didn't realize (or maybe I just didn't want to realize) the horrors some of them experience. The danger. The fear. The sadness they witness. I can remember how it actually hurt me when I finally realized that my younger brother -- who served in the Air Force for several years and was sent to Iraq for a time -- had witnessed and experienced truly terrifying and sad things. How I ached for him as I felt like he had lost some of his innocence. I'm not exactly sure why, but even up to that point, I wanted to protect him from those things. Even though we were adults, he was my "little" brother.
That experience, among other things, helped me realize more of what these men and women are doing every day so that I can enjoy all that I enjoy. And I do still take it for granted, you know... The fact that I am so free. I don't even know all the ways I'm free, because they always have been a part of my life. I say that, because until I heard someone speak in church about his own experience in another country (he was there as an exchange student of sorts), it never occurred to me that there are some people who can't even leave their village without permission from the authorities -- while meanwhile I can fly across the country and not notify anyone at all. And this is because we have people who serve to protect my freedom to do so.
So I feel like this is sort of disjointed. But it's just the thoughts floating in my head. I need to do better at remembering how precious my freedoms are. And how precious are those who fight for them. Because freedom isn't free.
What are you grateful for today?
Sunday, November 10, 2013
My Sunday School Class
Currently at church, I am serving as the Sunday School teacher for those who are 12 years old. And I love it.
I don't consider myself to be a good teacher. But I am grateful for the opportunity to try to improve in my ability to teach. And I so enjoy getting to know these kids as they are on the cusp of those longed-for teenage years. (I've been there, done that, and I'm not sure why every kid wants to be a teenager (I did too, I remember) -- but it's pretty universal. They can't wait to get to 13.) But there is just something fun about these kids. They know a lot. They are so interactive. But they aren't at the age where they think they know it all (yep, I've been there already too ;)). They are willing to learn. Willing to ask questions. Willing to participate.
And okay, so I love to bake them goodies so they'll at least enjoy my class a little bit, since I'm definitely not the coolest of cool. But they are really good kids, and I like to do nice things for them anyway. So I'd probably bake them goodies and bring them treats anyway. And I hope they will go away from my class having learned at least one thing.
Today we talked about financial and temporal self-reliance. And hopefully we discussed some things they can do in the future as adults. And hopefully we talked about ways they can help their family even now to be more self-reliant (like acknowledging that maybe their parents don't have money to buy them an iPod, for example). These are smart kids with great thoughts and ideas.
And I really appreciate when they ask questions. Because then I can learn too. If I don't have an answer right away, I can come home and ponder it, study it, and return with a response for them.
A few years back, I was teaching this same class (but with 13 year olds as well). And at that time, it was definitely one of my favorite callings. It was a great group of kids then, too (and they are all almost done with high school now... yikes!). And sure, one of them told me I'm old because of all my gray hair (out of the mouths of pre-teen babes...). But that same one told me, when I was being released to serve in a different capacity, that they didn't want me to leave because I was awesome -- and not just because I brought them candy. Haha... It was one of the moments that felt so rewarding.
I just feel a genuine love for these kids. They are fun and funny. They are full of life and hope and they have their whole lives ahead of them. I feel it is a privilege to have the opportunity to teach them. And to be taught by them. And for that, I feel humbled and grateful.
What are you grateful for today?
I don't consider myself to be a good teacher. But I am grateful for the opportunity to try to improve in my ability to teach. And I so enjoy getting to know these kids as they are on the cusp of those longed-for teenage years. (I've been there, done that, and I'm not sure why every kid wants to be a teenager (I did too, I remember) -- but it's pretty universal. They can't wait to get to 13.) But there is just something fun about these kids. They know a lot. They are so interactive. But they aren't at the age where they think they know it all (yep, I've been there already too ;)). They are willing to learn. Willing to ask questions. Willing to participate.
And okay, so I love to bake them goodies so they'll at least enjoy my class a little bit, since I'm definitely not the coolest of cool. But they are really good kids, and I like to do nice things for them anyway. So I'd probably bake them goodies and bring them treats anyway. And I hope they will go away from my class having learned at least one thing.
Today we talked about financial and temporal self-reliance. And hopefully we discussed some things they can do in the future as adults. And hopefully we talked about ways they can help their family even now to be more self-reliant (like acknowledging that maybe their parents don't have money to buy them an iPod, for example). These are smart kids with great thoughts and ideas.
And I really appreciate when they ask questions. Because then I can learn too. If I don't have an answer right away, I can come home and ponder it, study it, and return with a response for them.
A few years back, I was teaching this same class (but with 13 year olds as well). And at that time, it was definitely one of my favorite callings. It was a great group of kids then, too (and they are all almost done with high school now... yikes!). And sure, one of them told me I'm old because of all my gray hair (out of the mouths of pre-teen babes...). But that same one told me, when I was being released to serve in a different capacity, that they didn't want me to leave because I was awesome -- and not just because I brought them candy. Haha... It was one of the moments that felt so rewarding.
I just feel a genuine love for these kids. They are fun and funny. They are full of life and hope and they have their whole lives ahead of them. I feel it is a privilege to have the opportunity to teach them. And to be taught by them. And for that, I feel humbled and grateful.
What are you grateful for today?
Saturday, November 9, 2013
Becky M.
Prior to our vacation in Alabama, I wouldn't have been able to remember when I first met Becky M. But she remembered, so now I know :)...
We met at a Fall Festival on the Lewis Farm probably around 2004.
I knew her from church. She was in my Ward at the time. But it wasn't until a while later that we actually hung out and became friends. And I'm glad we did. Because Becky is one of the sweetest, kindest, most generous people I know.
One of the greatest memories I have is going over to her house in 2006 and playing a bunch of games with a group of people. The one I remember best was PIT. I had so much fun! And then, that October, I was invited to go over for a Halloween party. I dressed up as a witch (a last-minute costume). Becky was Princess Leia. I have to say Becky throws some awesome parties. The Halloween-themed food table was great. And we had a few other "theme" parties after that... The St. Patrick's Day party, the Luau before I moved away...
And Becky is very thoughtful when it comes to gifts. When I was moving away, she made me a nice warm fleece tie-blanket/quilt with the University of Alabama all over it, since I'd just finished school there. And she included a can of boiled peanuts for me to take with me to Washington. In case I ever felt home-sick. I ended up saving them for a long time and then ate them with my husband back when we were in our early dating days. Just to introduce him to something Southern. And so, of course, I thought of Becky while eating them. Just as I do almost year-round with the Alabama fleece. It's almost always on our couch, because I like to snuggle up under it on the cold days (of which there are many!)...
Becky is one of those sweet friends who lent us baby gear while we were in Alabama. She let us borrow their pack and play. And believe you me, it was put to good use! And it meant so much that she would do that for us. Then she did a great get-together for all those fabulous ladies with whom I used to go to church in Alabama. And it was just so awesome to see everyone in one place and laugh and eat some delicious food. Definitely one of the highlights of my trip.
Becky amazes me with everything she does. She is so patient!!! And with 4 kids between the ages of 1 and 6, I have to say I admire her immensely! She is a great example.
And I remember one day in November of 2007. I was back visiting from school for Thanksgiving, and I was having a really hard time emotionally. I called Becky and asked if her husband would give me a Priesthood Blessing of comfort. Sweet generous Becky, without any hesitation, told me to come on over. And this is how Becky is. So kind and generous. Willing to do whatever she can to help. And her husband is very kind as well. I shouldn't leave him out. They are just awesome people. And I'm grateful to know them and call them my friends. They have been a bright spot in my life for several years now, and I'll always be grateful for that and hope for many more.
What are you grateful for today?
We met at a Fall Festival on the Lewis Farm probably around 2004.
I knew her from church. She was in my Ward at the time. But it wasn't until a while later that we actually hung out and became friends. And I'm glad we did. Because Becky is one of the sweetest, kindest, most generous people I know.
One of the greatest memories I have is going over to her house in 2006 and playing a bunch of games with a group of people. The one I remember best was PIT. I had so much fun! And then, that October, I was invited to go over for a Halloween party. I dressed up as a witch (a last-minute costume). Becky was Princess Leia. I have to say Becky throws some awesome parties. The Halloween-themed food table was great. And we had a few other "theme" parties after that... The St. Patrick's Day party, the Luau before I moved away...
And Becky is very thoughtful when it comes to gifts. When I was moving away, she made me a nice warm fleece tie-blanket/quilt with the University of Alabama all over it, since I'd just finished school there. And she included a can of boiled peanuts for me to take with me to Washington. In case I ever felt home-sick. I ended up saving them for a long time and then ate them with my husband back when we were in our early dating days. Just to introduce him to something Southern. And so, of course, I thought of Becky while eating them. Just as I do almost year-round with the Alabama fleece. It's almost always on our couch, because I like to snuggle up under it on the cold days (of which there are many!)...
Becky is one of those sweet friends who lent us baby gear while we were in Alabama. She let us borrow their pack and play. And believe you me, it was put to good use! And it meant so much that she would do that for us. Then she did a great get-together for all those fabulous ladies with whom I used to go to church in Alabama. And it was just so awesome to see everyone in one place and laugh and eat some delicious food. Definitely one of the highlights of my trip.
Becky amazes me with everything she does. She is so patient!!! And with 4 kids between the ages of 1 and 6, I have to say I admire her immensely! She is a great example.
And I remember one day in November of 2007. I was back visiting from school for Thanksgiving, and I was having a really hard time emotionally. I called Becky and asked if her husband would give me a Priesthood Blessing of comfort. Sweet generous Becky, without any hesitation, told me to come on over. And this is how Becky is. So kind and generous. Willing to do whatever she can to help. And her husband is very kind as well. I shouldn't leave him out. They are just awesome people. And I'm grateful to know them and call them my friends. They have been a bright spot in my life for several years now, and I'll always be grateful for that and hope for many more.
What are you grateful for today?
Friday, November 8, 2013
Chick-Fil-A
Let me begin by saying I consider it a personal affront that there is no Chick-Fil-A near me. Rumor has it that there is one around the UW campus. But who is going to travel that far for the opportunity? Not this girl.
And so I must always add a trip to Chick-Fil-A to my Alabama adventure list -- every time I go. And just be grateful it exists at all and is a treat I can enjoy every now and then. Because it totally rocks the Nilla Life.
There is just something delicious about Chick-Fil-A. And I really appreciate that it's real chicken -- and you can tell! Another bonus is that I've never bitten into cartilage while eating their Original Chicken Sandwich, which in my opinion means they must go to great lengths to remove that offending piece of yuckiness from their chicken breasts. (If I bite into it, it ruins the whole meal for me... It's happened in other restaurants. Ick.). And I love their waffle fries. And if you go in the mornings, you should get the chicken minis. Yum.
My husband had never been to a Chick-Fil-A before this trip. And okay, so he wasn't as blown away as I was. But that doesn't change my love for this yummy "fast food." So every time I go back to Alabama, I'll do as the cows request and "Eat Mor Chikin."
Those cows are smart.
What are you grateful for today?
Thursday, November 7, 2013
My Dad
I have a great dad.
He loves me and my siblings. He always provided for us when we were growing up. I can remember how he would walk to work every morning when I was a teenager. We had everything we needed and so much of what we wanted. I know my dad went without a lot of things he would have enjoyed having so that we kids could have things we either needed or wanted.
My dad is a family man. He always has been. His idea of a nice time was time spent with his family -- whether it was camping at the Aquativity Center on the Atlantic Side or going to the Bacarron River for the day. I admit that, as teenagers, we gave him a hard time with this... We weren't interested in the family time. And it's regrettable now. Unfortunately I learned too late that I needed to cherish those times. .
If I was to list all my favorite memories about my dad, this post would go on forever. But I still want to share a few.
One of my favorite sounds is my dad's laugh. I don't know why. But I know that several of the movies and tv shows I love are ones I watched with him and heard him laughing through. I think there is a connection there. He likes to joke around. The first time he met my husband was before we were married. We'd flown down to visit my dad so they could meet. Well, my husband has quite an ability to pack away food (and stay skinny). It quite impressed my dad. And my dad started (good-naturedly) calling my then-boyfriend "hoover" -- you know, like the vacuum. Other times I can recall his laughter involve roosters that crow at midnight in Panama, a guy singing (very poorly, I might add) Dust in the Wind over and over and over again at about midnight in Panama, fake (or fig, if you can hear properly) trees, and getting sprayed by something while driving into Boquete.
My dad has a good heart. He recognizes pain and loneliness in others, and I sincerely believe he empathizes with them inwardly, even if he doesn't know exactly how to do it outwardly. He also does kind things for people. Most often his family. For example, knowing that we were coming down to see him, he fixed up one of the spare rooms. He bought a mattress for the bed that he had moved in there and then made the bed up with the pillow shams and everything. And bought contoured pillows for our heads ;). It is a seemingly small thing, but it was really nice and thoughtful.
My dad has been my protector. And while he doesn't fill that role anymore, he used to. And he did it well. He would comfort me when I needed comfort. He would talk soothingly to me when I was scared. He has worried about me -- even in my adulthood. I remember when I was going to move to Tuscaloosa to work and attend school. He rode up with me the week before I was to move to help me find a place I could afford to live. It was a high-stress day. And we both ended up crying when I found nothing (because I wasn't going to live in the place with the skull drawn on the neighbor's door...). I know my dad aches with me. And I know he rejoices with me too.
My dad taught me to drive. I remember the first time he was going to have me drive a particular stretch of road alone. He spent about 5 minutes before actually letting me do so telling me everything he'd already been telling me... Plus, he emphatically told me (multiple times), "Remember... If anything goes wrong, just turn off the key. The car will stop." I know it's because he was worried about me.
My dad surprised us all the first Christmas I was living here in Washington. He decided to fly out and not tell anyone he was coming. Irony being what it is, it was the year of the great big snow (2008) and his plane got turned around to Salt Lake City before finally being able to land the next day... And then, once he was here, he spent his time and money making sure all his kids had snow chains for their vehicles.
My dad is a good grandpa. And I'm glad my little girl (and hopefully-future children) will have him as one of their grandpas. I have enjoyed watching him light up around his grand-kids. He loves taking them for walks in their strollers when they are really little. And it was so wonderful that my sweet girl was able to enjoy this time with her grandpa.
They say women often marry men who are like their fathers. I can definitely see many similarities between my husband and my dad. And that's a great thing :).
My dad isn't perfect. But he's a wonderful dad. And I'm glad he's my dad. It is because of my dad that I can understand and comprehend the existence of my Heavenly Father. It is why I can so easily believe and know my Heavenly Father loves me. And one of the best blessings He ever gave me is my earthly father. And I am grateful.
What are you grateful for today?
He loves me and my siblings. He always provided for us when we were growing up. I can remember how he would walk to work every morning when I was a teenager. We had everything we needed and so much of what we wanted. I know my dad went without a lot of things he would have enjoyed having so that we kids could have things we either needed or wanted.
My dad is a family man. He always has been. His idea of a nice time was time spent with his family -- whether it was camping at the Aquativity Center on the Atlantic Side or going to the Bacarron River for the day. I admit that, as teenagers, we gave him a hard time with this... We weren't interested in the family time. And it's regrettable now. Unfortunately I learned too late that I needed to cherish those times. .
If I was to list all my favorite memories about my dad, this post would go on forever. But I still want to share a few.
One of my favorite sounds is my dad's laugh. I don't know why. But I know that several of the movies and tv shows I love are ones I watched with him and heard him laughing through. I think there is a connection there. He likes to joke around. The first time he met my husband was before we were married. We'd flown down to visit my dad so they could meet. Well, my husband has quite an ability to pack away food (and stay skinny). It quite impressed my dad. And my dad started (good-naturedly) calling my then-boyfriend "hoover" -- you know, like the vacuum. Other times I can recall his laughter involve roosters that crow at midnight in Panama, a guy singing (very poorly, I might add) Dust in the Wind over and over and over again at about midnight in Panama, fake (or fig, if you can hear properly) trees, and getting sprayed by something while driving into Boquete.
My dad has a good heart. He recognizes pain and loneliness in others, and I sincerely believe he empathizes with them inwardly, even if he doesn't know exactly how to do it outwardly. He also does kind things for people. Most often his family. For example, knowing that we were coming down to see him, he fixed up one of the spare rooms. He bought a mattress for the bed that he had moved in there and then made the bed up with the pillow shams and everything. And bought contoured pillows for our heads ;). It is a seemingly small thing, but it was really nice and thoughtful.
My dad has been my protector. And while he doesn't fill that role anymore, he used to. And he did it well. He would comfort me when I needed comfort. He would talk soothingly to me when I was scared. He has worried about me -- even in my adulthood. I remember when I was going to move to Tuscaloosa to work and attend school. He rode up with me the week before I was to move to help me find a place I could afford to live. It was a high-stress day. And we both ended up crying when I found nothing (because I wasn't going to live in the place with the skull drawn on the neighbor's door...). I know my dad aches with me. And I know he rejoices with me too.
My dad taught me to drive. I remember the first time he was going to have me drive a particular stretch of road alone. He spent about 5 minutes before actually letting me do so telling me everything he'd already been telling me... Plus, he emphatically told me (multiple times), "Remember... If anything goes wrong, just turn off the key. The car will stop." I know it's because he was worried about me.
My dad surprised us all the first Christmas I was living here in Washington. He decided to fly out and not tell anyone he was coming. Irony being what it is, it was the year of the great big snow (2008) and his plane got turned around to Salt Lake City before finally being able to land the next day... And then, once he was here, he spent his time and money making sure all his kids had snow chains for their vehicles.
My dad is a good grandpa. And I'm glad my little girl (and hopefully-future children) will have him as one of their grandpas. I have enjoyed watching him light up around his grand-kids. He loves taking them for walks in their strollers when they are really little. And it was so wonderful that my sweet girl was able to enjoy this time with her grandpa.
They say women often marry men who are like their fathers. I can definitely see many similarities between my husband and my dad. And that's a great thing :).
My dad isn't perfect. But he's a wonderful dad. And I'm glad he's my dad. It is because of my dad that I can understand and comprehend the existence of my Heavenly Father. It is why I can so easily believe and know my Heavenly Father loves me. And one of the best blessings He ever gave me is my earthly father. And I am grateful.
What are you grateful for today?
Safe Travels
So, after 2 airporters, 4 planes, and a whole bunch of car rides, our vacation is over and we are home. Safe and sound. Tired. But safe and sound.
And for that, I am grateful.
P.S... For the record, even though it's technically Thursday -- at 12:30 a.m., I haven't gone to sleep yet, so I am counting this as Wednesday's post ;).
What are you grateful for today?
And for that, I am grateful.
P.S... For the record, even though it's technically Thursday -- at 12:30 a.m., I haven't gone to sleep yet, so I am counting this as Wednesday's post ;).
What are you grateful for today?
Tuesday, November 5, 2013
Sweet Home Alabama
It's kind of funny: I wasn't born in Alabama. I didn't grow up in Alabama. I spent 10 years of my life in Alabama, though. And somehow, it has ended up feeling like home.
Talk about eating some crow. Because I never dreamed I would feel the way I feel.
I loathe the heat. And if you've never had the privelege of "enjoying" an Alabama summer, let me just tell you: it's HOT. (And I'm serious about my feelings about the heat. My friend Julie just told me that it's the only time she's ever heard me whine and complain -- when I'm hot in the South... haha. I should probably work on that...). The weather in Fall is beyond beautiful. Pretty much perfect. Not a cloud in the sky, with chilly nights and mornings and warm days full of sunshine. This has been a pretty perfect week, weatherwise.
I'm not really a huge fan of cockroaches either. Being that I've never seen one in Washington, I kind of forget they exist until someone mentions them when I'm back visiting...
(Basically what I'm saying here is that you should never look for sweltering weather or roaches on my gratitude list...).
And yet, despite those things, Alabama is what feels like home now. It's where my heart yearns to return -- for good. (Shocking, I know).
Maybe it's because I became an adult here.
Or maybe it's because I matured into adulthood here. I graduated high school here. Graduated college here -- twice. I learned how to be independent and support myself here. I made friends who are near and dear to my heart here (in other places too, of course, but this bears mentioning). I made great memories here.
And though my heart yearns to come home for good, I don't know that we ever will. It may never be right for our family.
Regardless, though, I'll always be grateful for sweet home Alabama. And I'll always love coming home, even if only for a short time.
What are you grateful for today?
Talk about eating some crow. Because I never dreamed I would feel the way I feel.
I loathe the heat. And if you've never had the privelege of "enjoying" an Alabama summer, let me just tell you: it's HOT. (And I'm serious about my feelings about the heat. My friend Julie just told me that it's the only time she's ever heard me whine and complain -- when I'm hot in the South... haha. I should probably work on that...). The weather in Fall is beyond beautiful. Pretty much perfect. Not a cloud in the sky, with chilly nights and mornings and warm days full of sunshine. This has been a pretty perfect week, weatherwise.
I'm not really a huge fan of cockroaches either. Being that I've never seen one in Washington, I kind of forget they exist until someone mentions them when I'm back visiting...
(Basically what I'm saying here is that you should never look for sweltering weather or roaches on my gratitude list...).
And yet, despite those things, Alabama is what feels like home now. It's where my heart yearns to return -- for good. (Shocking, I know).
Maybe it's because I became an adult here.
Or maybe it's because I matured into adulthood here. I graduated high school here. Graduated college here -- twice. I learned how to be independent and support myself here. I made friends who are near and dear to my heart here (in other places too, of course, but this bears mentioning). I made great memories here.
And though my heart yearns to come home for good, I don't know that we ever will. It may never be right for our family.
Regardless, though, I'll always be grateful for sweet home Alabama. And I'll always love coming home, even if only for a short time.
What are you grateful for today?
Monday, November 4, 2013
Date Nights With My Sweetie
Date night, though it shouldn't be, tends to be a rarity for my husband and me these days. It's important, I know that. It's good for us to get away from the routine and the baby and just be together. Continuing to date after marriage is a marriage strengthener. And we should do it more. The truth is, often times since our baby girl has arrived, we have had date night at home -- after she goes down for the night. Sometimes this entails a movie. Other times we try to beat each other at chess (he always wins). And it almost always involves ice cream. And these are decent (and inexpensive) date nights for us.
But sometimes it's good to be able to get out of the house and do something completely different.
Tonight we had that opportunity with some nice in-house baby-sitting from Grandma and Grandpa (these are some serious perks to vacation...)! And it was a treat. We went to the National Peanut Festival -- the event around which I actually planned our trip. And I got the fried twinkie I've been hoping to get for ages. (It's not bad, in my opinion, but definitely not anything to spend $4 on ever again...). And we walked around holding hands -- like we were dating again ;). And sometimes you just need dates like this. Even if you're a lot older than you used to be and you feel tired and worn out after walking around the fair for 2 hours...
So I'm grateful for date nights -- this one and every one. And I'm realizing I need to make sure we do them more often!
What are you grateful for today?
But sometimes it's good to be able to get out of the house and do something completely different.
Tonight we had that opportunity with some nice in-house baby-sitting from Grandma and Grandpa (these are some serious perks to vacation...)! And it was a treat. We went to the National Peanut Festival -- the event around which I actually planned our trip. And I got the fried twinkie I've been hoping to get for ages. (It's not bad, in my opinion, but definitely not anything to spend $4 on ever again...). And we walked around holding hands -- like we were dating again ;). And sometimes you just need dates like this. Even if you're a lot older than you used to be and you feel tired and worn out after walking around the fair for 2 hours...
So I'm grateful for date nights -- this one and every one. And I'm realizing I need to make sure we do them more often!
What are you grateful for today?
Sunday, November 3, 2013
Being Able to Attend Church Wherever I Go
I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (also known as Mormons). And I love that no matter where I am in the world, when Sunday rolls around, I can find a ward or branch (names for congregations) of my faith and worship there -- and it will be familiar.
Today I attended church in my old stomping grounds. It just so happened to be Stake Conference, so it wasn't the typical Sunday meetings. (A stake is a collection of Wards -- or congregations -- in a specific geographical location. Twice a year, all the Wards meet together in one place -- which in this area happens to be the Dothan chapel -- and have a conference where we hear our local leaders speak). But I love that I always know where I will be attending church, and that I always know it will feel like home.
And though I'm miles away from where I call home right now, and though these speakers aren't technically my local leaders, the doctrine and things they were teaching are the same I would hear from my local Washington leaders, and they are applicable to me. Because it is better to avoid temptation than to have to resist it. And I want to create a home where there are fewer temptations to resist by avoiding them altogether. Because I can be better about getting out of my comfort zone and sharing my testimony with others. And I can certainly take to heart the need to be kind and to look outward and be welcoming, rather than having tunnel vision and focusing only on what I am doing.
To me, it is a great blessing to always know where I'll be on Sunday, whether I'm home or abroad. It is a great blessing to know I'll be uplifted and feel the Spirit as I hear truth. And for that, I am grateful.
What are you grateful for today?
Today I attended church in my old stomping grounds. It just so happened to be Stake Conference, so it wasn't the typical Sunday meetings. (A stake is a collection of Wards -- or congregations -- in a specific geographical location. Twice a year, all the Wards meet together in one place -- which in this area happens to be the Dothan chapel -- and have a conference where we hear our local leaders speak). But I love that I always know where I will be attending church, and that I always know it will feel like home.
And though I'm miles away from where I call home right now, and though these speakers aren't technically my local leaders, the doctrine and things they were teaching are the same I would hear from my local Washington leaders, and they are applicable to me. Because it is better to avoid temptation than to have to resist it. And I want to create a home where there are fewer temptations to resist by avoiding them altogether. Because I can be better about getting out of my comfort zone and sharing my testimony with others. And I can certainly take to heart the need to be kind and to look outward and be welcoming, rather than having tunnel vision and focusing only on what I am doing.
To me, it is a great blessing to always know where I'll be on Sunday, whether I'm home or abroad. It is a great blessing to know I'll be uplifted and feel the Spirit as I hear truth. And for that, I am grateful.
What are you grateful for today?
Saturday, November 2, 2013
"Panama Food" from Publix
I grew up in Panama. That's a "grateful" for another day. But some of the perks of that growing-up time were the various foods I got to enjoy :). Unique things that are phenomenally tasty. And, in case I haven't mentioned it before (but I'm pretty sure I have... and that I probably will again...): I'm a foodie.
I grew up eating things like arroz con pollo; empanaditas (and I really liked the cheese ones from the street vendor); raspados (okay, so this was just shaved ice, which wasn't exactly "ethnic" -- but we added leche (or sweetened condensed milk), and that seems to have made it unique, because when I tell people about it, they say "Really!?!" And some people think it sounds disgusting. But I think it's awesome that way.); san cocho; maracuya juice (which I believe is passion fruit juice); guandu (or pigeon peas); patacones (please correct me if I'm spelling that wrong); yucca frita...
The list could go on and on... Deliciousness.
There are some things I've been able to have since moving away from Panama. We make our version of arroz con pollo as well as some empanadas. But there are many things I don't get to enjoy unless I go back to Panama. Or so I thought! It turns out, there are quite a few of the things I enjoy for sale in the U.S. And apparently Publix (at least the one in Dothan) carries several of these things. And fortunately for me, my dad is only too thrilled to keep these items in stock!
So since being here visiting my dad, we've enjoyed arroz con guandu; tejadas; patacones; yucca frita; and maracuya juice.
And it makes me happy. I may need to buy a few cans of the guandu and take them back with me, because I've yet to find them in the stores in Washington (and I've looked in some, but not all, so if you happen to know a place, clue me in!!)
Sure, it's not quite like the "real deal." But it is a treat and something to remind me of my fabulous
childhood. And something to share with my hubby, to give him an idea of the yumminess that I used to enjoy so easily :). And which I took for granted, quite honestly.
If only I could find some authentic carne en palito... (Yeah right. My dad probably still wouldn't let me eat it! He said it was monkey. Hahaha. And truthfully? He may have been right. But man oh man was it yummy (yes, I totally had some once at a football game)).
What are you grateful for today?
I grew up eating things like arroz con pollo; empanaditas (and I really liked the cheese ones from the street vendor); raspados (okay, so this was just shaved ice, which wasn't exactly "ethnic" -- but we added leche (or sweetened condensed milk), and that seems to have made it unique, because when I tell people about it, they say "Really!?!" And some people think it sounds disgusting. But I think it's awesome that way.); san cocho; maracuya juice (which I believe is passion fruit juice); guandu (or pigeon peas); patacones (please correct me if I'm spelling that wrong); yucca frita...
The list could go on and on... Deliciousness.
There are some things I've been able to have since moving away from Panama. We make our version of arroz con pollo as well as some empanadas. But there are many things I don't get to enjoy unless I go back to Panama. Or so I thought! It turns out, there are quite a few of the things I enjoy for sale in the U.S. And apparently Publix (at least the one in Dothan) carries several of these things. And fortunately for me, my dad is only too thrilled to keep these items in stock!
So since being here visiting my dad, we've enjoyed arroz con guandu; tejadas; patacones; yucca frita; and maracuya juice.
And it makes me happy. I may need to buy a few cans of the guandu and take them back with me, because I've yet to find them in the stores in Washington (and I've looked in some, but not all, so if you happen to know a place, clue me in!!)
Sure, it's not quite like the "real deal." But it is a treat and something to remind me of my fabulous
childhood. And something to share with my hubby, to give him an idea of the yumminess that I used to enjoy so easily :). And which I took for granted, quite honestly.
If only I could find some authentic carne en palito... (Yeah right. My dad probably still wouldn't let me eat it! He said it was monkey. Hahaha. And truthfully? He may have been right. But man oh man was it yummy (yes, I totally had some once at a football game)).
What are you grateful for today?
Friday, November 1, 2013
Technology
Another quick post. But I'm grateful for technology. Technology that allows me to write this blog post from Alabaster while visiting my friend. Technology that allows me to keep in touch across the miles -- and keep a goal I set to be grateful every day.
I'd write more, but it's nearly midnight in Alabama... And I still need my warm shower ;).
What are you grateful for today?
I'd write more, but it's nearly midnight in Alabama... And I still need my warm shower ;).
What are you grateful for today?
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