Well, I'm back from a busy weekend, and my head is FULL of information that's threatening to seep out of this noggin of mine. It was weird taking a workshop that was two full weekend days! It's like a Sunday, - my day of rest and usually attending church- has been skipped out of the past 7 days.
But then I watched this and I heard a good message. It's 11 minutes long, but it's interesting, so you might want to watch.
Every step is an arrival from Elevation Church on Vimeo.
As I was watching this, a few thoughts went through my mind. (One was that his t-shirt was very distracting! ;)
I thought about our neighbours across the street who have such struggling family relationships. Teens on drugs, kids abandoned by their biological fathers, overwhelmed mom, common law husband always on the road, financial issues, and it goes on. And then late into the night, Dave and I lay awake in bed, listening to a major yelling and swearing session going on in their driveway. Mom and biological son. And it went on. And we lay there, wondering what we should do about it. She is our tenant, but she's also someone I've gotten to know and she's a wonderful person. And her son was raging on and on. And neither of them budged. She's told me before she's not allowing him in the house if he's on drugs or uncontrolled. At this point, Dave decided he'd better get up and see what he could do. (At this point, I'm thinking I'm glad I'm not a man!).
I peered out the window into the night as he walked across the street to her driveway. I couldn't see what was going on, but he was out there an awfully long time. I hoped all was settling down, because the yelling stopped. I was thinking that we have an empty bedroom downstairs and maybe T. could sleep there for tonight.
More than a half hour later, Dave returns and tells me that T. really does love his mom, but he gets on these rages where he can't stop. He had calmed down, was apologetic, and was going for a walk to cool down. And then Dave mentioned that he had offered our spare room downstairs if T. wanted to stay there tonight. Amazing how Dave and I were thinking the same thing!
T.'s response was, "Oh, I couldn't come and stay with you, a nice, Christian family." Huh?! I didn't know how to respond to that. How DO you respond to that? This poor young man has no self-love, no self-respect, nothing. And we are too good for him??!! It's so sad that neighbours see us that way.
Anyway, somehow, the video reminded me that we don't have to be perfect when we come to Jesus. He changes us one little step at a time. He works IN us. It's not about performance, although there's something in us that wants to perform and get pats on the back. It reminds me not to set people up for failure by expecting too much of them. And not to expect too much of ourselves! Or to be judgmental.
This guy in the video (Steven Furtick, author of Sun Stand Still) sort of irritated me, and I wondered why. Then I realized that I had higher expectations of him because he was a pastor and a writer, etc. And he reacted oh, so wrongly towards the other movie goer. I'm so judgmental sometimes. God forgive me.
And then, Dave heading across the street, and just seeing if he could help-- I was so proud of him because that WAS the right thing to do. A small thing. A small step. An arrival.
Showing posts with label real life. Show all posts
Showing posts with label real life. Show all posts
Jun 22, 2011
Welcome!
And I hope you keep reading. It's not THAT much fun to blog if nobody's reading, right? Mind you, I journal sporadically, so I must get something out of writing just for writing's sake.
Anyway, we all know that comments make a blogger happy, so I hope you will drop me a line now and then.
You're probably wondering WHY I switched to a private blog? I probably wouldn't have switched if I didn't have a 'professional' presence on the web, too. (teaching with an online school and another blog for the official 'teacher' side of me).
Maybe I have a few privacy issues (Dave would say I do!), but it just feels weird thinking that possibly the families and colleagues I work with could read my personal blog. Chances are, they haven't, wouldn't, and would probably glance at it and never return. BUT, it's the 'not knowing' that kept on rearing its head like a gopher out of a gopher hole. So, I put an end to that naggy feeling that kept me awake at night (not really) and decided to go private. Now I feel like I can stop wondering so much if/who is reading. Call me paranoid, if you'd like. Just not to my face!! ;)
Funny thing is, I don't mind at all if strangers read my stuff. The more the merrier. I like making new friends. It's the people who sort of know me, but not really!! What does that say about me, any of you wannabe psychologists out there?
Anyway, now I can share all about my very personal issues... ha!! Probably not, but at least if I spill the beans on something a little more personal at times, I won't have insomnia over it. I'll just have supportive group of blog buddies to say "Yeah, I know what you mean, I'm with ya", or "what the ?? You crazy woman!!" or something like that.
Anyway, I won't be blogging too much in the next week or so, because I am in my CRAZY time with work (report cards) and Jill is flying back to Vancouver next week from her European escapade and we're going to take a couple of days to have a little get away (maybe) and go pick up our girl, and I'm away for 2 days this weekend, taking an out of town course on Irlen testing (I'll leave you guessing what that is, but it's going to be interesting!) ;)
Hope you're all enjoying the first days of summer. Hurray for school being OUT (almost!!)
Jun 8, 2011
Dress for Success (**fixed link!**)
I came across this blog about a young woman who is raising funds for orphans in India by wearing the same dress for 100 days, but in a different way each day (accessorizing, etc.).
Not only is this an awesome idea, but it's interesting to see how she changes things up each day, as well! Check it out!
Not only is this an awesome idea, but it's interesting to see how she changes things up each day, as well! Check it out!
Apr 26, 2011
Apr 9, 2011
Doldrums
And I’m not even referring to my lack of blogging lately! It’s my cooking that is suffering greatly. Everything tastes the same! And I’m lacking imagination to come up with something palate-pleasing. My palate hasn’t been pleased in a while.
I have a whack of cookbooks, but not as many as some people I know. And still I am flummoxed when considering what to make for supper. Am I the only one with this strange condition? I think it’s related to the ‘I Have A Whole Closet Full Of Clothes But Nothing To Wear!!’ Syndrome. In fact, I think those two often rear their ugly heads together.
So..if you could only keep ONE cookbook in your home (and it couldn’t be online!), which would it be? Oh, and if you have a favorite supper recipe, feel free to share that, too! I might get inspired!
Mar 13, 2011
Let us pray
After hearing about and seeing (online) the unfathomable devastation that has occurred in Japan these last couple of days, I feel a little overwhelmed. I’m going to post a cherry blossom pic over on my sidebar to remind me to pray for Japan (an idea from a fellow blogger) and other places around the world that are in desperate situations.. It helps to have a visual reminder.
I keep looking at videos and imagining the fear and stress that is going on there right now. How can I even complain about the things I complain about when in so many parts of the world, people have experienced horrific events, and are just struggling to physically survive?
It’s hard to make sense of this all. It feels weird having conversations about mundane things when we’ve all just witnessed such a tragedy.
Not that I understand the how’s and why’s, but I believe that prayer changes things.
P.S. Here's a site listing ways to help: http://philanthropy.com/article/Charities-Respond-to-Pacific/126706/
I keep looking at videos and imagining the fear and stress that is going on there right now. How can I even complain about the things I complain about when in so many parts of the world, people have experienced horrific events, and are just struggling to physically survive?
It’s hard to make sense of this all. It feels weird having conversations about mundane things when we’ve all just witnessed such a tragedy.
Not that I understand the how’s and why’s, but I believe that prayer changes things.
P.S. Here's a site listing ways to help: http://philanthropy.com/article/Charities-Respond-to-Pacific/126706/
Jan 22, 2011
What a Girl Wants
Came across this fun little video here. I dedicate it to all my friends and rellies who are currently in the 'cute little kids' parenting stage. Hope you have a date night in your future!
Jan 13, 2011
Big Little Procedure *update* *update #2*
Two of my YA children are going for Laser Eye Surgery today (in less than an hour!!).
I won’t be there post-op, because they had to drive 3 hours from here to get it done.
I’m a little worried.
If you’re the praying kind, would you send one upwards for them and their doctor today?
** So far so good! The procedures went well, and they are now on Day 2 of recuperation. Besides itchy eyes, nothing too painful (although Day 3 (Sat) is supposedly the painful day). The 'lenses' come off their eyes on Monday. This is a PRK procedure, not Lasik, so it has a longer recovery period. Thanks for praying!! The kids should be home Monday evening or Tuesday morning.
**** Home again, and recovering well. The doctor said tests showed better vision than expected at this point. And they will notice marked improvement in the next few weeks, as well. So, it's all good so far. Thanks for your prayers and interest!
I won’t be there post-op, because they had to drive 3 hours from here to get it done.
I’m a little worried.
If you’re the praying kind, would you send one upwards for them and their doctor today?
**** Home again, and recovering well. The doctor said tests showed better vision than expected at this point. And they will notice marked improvement in the next few weeks, as well. So, it's all good so far. Thanks for your prayers and interest!
Nov 20, 2010
Troubling
..to say the least. Other words come to mind .. sickening, sad, shocking, unbelievable.... I don't really know if this is legitimate or not, BUT it has been the topic of talk shows, etc lately.. so I'm assuming it's really true.
A couple is deciding the fate of their unborn baby by how many votes for life (by live birth) or death (by abortion) they receive at this website: http://www.birthornot.com/ by early December.
I know.. unbelievable. And IF this child is given the gift of live birth, how will he feel when years from now he finds out that his parents played this sickening game? Outcome determined by an internet vote?
Again... don't want to dwell on this. It makes me angry.
What have we as a society become? Is human life precious or not? Made in the image of God?
P.S. This may be a good time to remind all of you faithful readers to vote for the Pregnancy Care Centre of Kamloops in the Joey's Only $25K giveaway to a nonprofit centre in Canada. Miraculously, we are VERY close to winning!!! It's all over at the end of November! Vote for #22! And please pass this on. http://www.pregnancycarekamloops.com/
THANK YOU!
A couple is deciding the fate of their unborn baby by how many votes for life (by live birth) or death (by abortion) they receive at this website: http://www.birthornot.com/ by early December.
I know.. unbelievable. And IF this child is given the gift of live birth, how will he feel when years from now he finds out that his parents played this sickening game? Outcome determined by an internet vote?
Again... don't want to dwell on this. It makes me angry.
What have we as a society become? Is human life precious or not? Made in the image of God?
P.S. This may be a good time to remind all of you faithful readers to vote for the Pregnancy Care Centre of Kamloops in the Joey's Only $25K giveaway to a nonprofit centre in Canada. Miraculously, we are VERY close to winning!!! It's all over at the end of November! Vote for #22! And please pass this on. http://www.pregnancycarekamloops.com/
THANK YOU!
Nov 19, 2010
All in a Day's Work
Some of the obligations of my work take me out to the far reaches of the universe. Well, not quite that far, but several times a year, I take the trek up one of our local mountain roads to a little picturesque community called Pinantan Lake, where one of my homeschool families reside.
Unfortunately, even though there may be little evidence of winter in the valley today (except for icy winds!), on this trip, I've got the challenge of lonely, snowy roads ahead.. It's the beauty of the scenery that lures me on, though. I have my iPod to listen to, and my Timmy's coffee in hand, so I'm ready. Just me tootling up the highway, then turning onto the slippery, winding, climbing road, snaking past fields and hills and forests. A few cars whiz purposefully past me, sending up swirls of glittering snow, the drivers intent on heading into town. I, however, am retreating from the busyness of the city. To the beauty and peacefulness of 'the countryside'.
I spend a few hours enjoying the chattering of the children, poring over their work samples, listening to them recite Bible verses, showing me what they can communicate in sign language, and watching break dancing performed by the 7 year old. It's really quite enjoyable.
Then I'm off with a bag full of portfolio samples in my back seat, my little car puttering down the mountain, my hands gripping the steering wheel a little harder because it's still blowing snow all around me.
Back in town, I meet up with a friend for coffee at Starbuck's, a really great way to celebrate completing another item on my 'to do' list, don't you think?
Unfortunately, even though there may be little evidence of winter in the valley today (except for icy winds!), on this trip, I've got the challenge of lonely, snowy roads ahead.. It's the beauty of the scenery that lures me on, though. I have my iPod to listen to, and my Timmy's coffee in hand, so I'm ready. Just me tootling up the highway, then turning onto the slippery, winding, climbing road, snaking past fields and hills and forests. A few cars whiz purposefully past me, sending up swirls of glittering snow, the drivers intent on heading into town. I, however, am retreating from the busyness of the city. To the beauty and peacefulness of 'the countryside'.
I spend a few hours enjoying the chattering of the children, poring over their work samples, listening to them recite Bible verses, showing me what they can communicate in sign language, and watching break dancing performed by the 7 year old. It's really quite enjoyable.
Then I'm off with a bag full of portfolio samples in my back seat, my little car puttering down the mountain, my hands gripping the steering wheel a little harder because it's still blowing snow all around me.
Sep 7, 2010
I Do and I Don’t
I’m not one who needs or wants a lot of activity and busyness in my life, although I love to live with purpose and enjoy doing a variety of meaningful and just plain FUN activities. I love to be home, but I also love to work and play(!) together with others towards a common goal. I just know that I have a limit. And if I step over it, well, let’s say we all suffer. Sad, but true.
So, as I was listening to a program on my iPod this morning, I thought of all the things I enjoy doing and some I just won’t bother to do anymore because of time and energy constraints.
As Proverbs says: To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven.
Now is the time to do and not to do, based on priorities at this time in my life. Saying No to one thing means saying Yes to another.
So, here are a few things I DON’T do:
I don’t clean my house religiously anymore.
I don’t darn socks.
I don’t cook or bake from scratch all the time. I am not opposed to prepared foods once in a while!
I don’t iron my husband’s clothes.
I don’t scrapbook anymore. Wayyyyyy behind, but oh well.
I don’t refinish furniture.
I don’t have an immaculate yard or house.
I don’t have people over (in a formal way) on a regular basis. I go with the flow.
I don’t say yes to every need that comes across my path.
I don’t make many homemade gifts (just some cards and sometimes a knitted item or baked goods).
How about you? What DON’T you do, even though it may be a ‘good thing’?
So, as I was listening to a program on my iPod this morning, I thought of all the things I enjoy doing and some I just won’t bother to do anymore because of time and energy constraints.
As Proverbs says: To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven.
Now is the time to do and not to do, based on priorities at this time in my life. Saying No to one thing means saying Yes to another.
So, here are a few things I DON’T do:
I don’t clean my house religiously anymore.
I don’t darn socks.
I don’t cook or bake from scratch all the time. I am not opposed to prepared foods once in a while!
I don’t iron my husband’s clothes.
I don’t scrapbook anymore. Wayyyyyy behind, but oh well.
I don’t refinish furniture.
I don’t have an immaculate yard or house.
I don’t have people over (in a formal way) on a regular basis. I go with the flow.
I don’t say yes to every need that comes across my path.
I don’t make many homemade gifts (just some cards and sometimes a knitted item or baked goods).
How about you? What DON’T you do, even though it may be a ‘good thing’?
Sep 6, 2010
Wonder Tea
Feeling Calmed.
Feeling Soothed.
Feeling Restored.
Doesn’t that sound pleasing? A great marketing ploy, really. Imagine if a cup of tea could really do that!? Well, it doesn’t hurt to sip herbal tea, anyway, and I really do enjoy each of these blends.
I think I’ll be drinking a cup of ‘Feeling Calmed’ tea first thing tomorrow morning as I plunk myself back in front of the work computer and hunker down, meeting deadlines and goals.
I’ll be choosing ‘Feeling Soothed’ as I encounter glitches and frustrations attempting to input vast amounts of information in a timely manner. Or when I glance at my calendar and realize it’s going to be ONE BUSY MONTH!
I’ll guzzle a few cups of ‘Feeling Restored’ at the end of the week as I wind down from appointments, meetings, commitments, and of course, the everyday stuff that takes up time and energy.
Oh, I’ll still have my morning cuppa java, though. But as the weather gets cooler and life gets busier, I see ‘tea with a purpose’ in my future.
Aug 18, 2010
The Oregon Coast Camping Experience Part 2
Now, where did I leave off on highlights of our Oregon Coast trip? Oh, yes.. 9 of us—my hubby, son, sister, b-i-l, 3 nephews and girlfriend in 3 cars… 3 days of fun.. more to come..
Day 4
Woke up and enjoyed a breakfast of bacon and eggs. Plans for the day included a trip to the Tillamook Cheese Factory, and of course, sampling delicious ice cream while we were there! Bought a couple of kites, and the cousins had fun for hours on the beach back at the campsite.
After supper, we headed to Cape Lookout Park hiking trail – the same one my girlfriend and I had experienced 3 years ago! And it was as beautiful as I remembered! The views were incredible! Made it back just as the sun was going down.
Day 5 Cool and breezy. Had a simple breakfast of granola and packed up our tent and belongings to head down to North Bend/Coos Bay.
Stopped at the Devil’s Punchbowl (but it was empty). Lots of views of the vast ocean. Arrived at our campsite about 4:30 pm. The site was more treed, but alas, we were not too near the ocean, and what we could walk to was just a cove. Not real scenic. We all played a game of Imaginit around the campfire, which was a hoot!
Day 6 Dune Buggy Day!! The prebooked and highly anticipated expedition! Arrived at the Dunes about 10:30 a.m. Unfortunately, I realized I had left my driver’s license at home in BC! So, no dune buggy handling for me. I’d be the passenger only, which was really okay with me, at that point. One word to describe this experience…. Overwhelming! Actually, that’s not a strong enough word.
Tim was itching to get going!
Even before we were settled into our assigned buggy, I began feeling apprehensive.. I’ve never been one to enjoy taking a lot of risks, especially where safety is concerned. The mandatory video we watched before heading out, didn’t help; in fact, it sealed it for me. Everything that could go wrong was explained in detail. Lots of warnings, etc. I have a pretty active imagination, I guess, because suddenly it didn’t sound like so much fun to me. What was I thinking? I don’t remember feeling any fear as I called days earlier, booking our rides. But now… yikes. I’m not proud to say I was a total wimp for the next two hours, begging to be let out (but of course, where do you go when you’re trapped in mountains of sand with only other thrill -seeking dune buggy-ers around?) My sister had pity on me and jumped into our buggy, as Dave left for the sanity of an exciting ride with our b-i-l Matt. Guess what? We ended up following the guys into some trails that we probably shouldn’t have started out in, and we promptly got stuck!! We both felt like the buggy was going to tip at that point, but jumping out was probably not a good idea. That didn’t stop us, though. Thankfully, my capable nephew rescued us and set us on the right track once again. Only a few minutes later, we followed the guys up this very steep hill and promptly stopped right before we reached the top. There we sat, almost vertical, frozen by the fear of backing down, and not being able to go forward. Luckily, the guys came around and saved us once again. So, as you can see, although we were laughing our heads off at times, I REALLY was praying that time would fly so we could head back.
I would show you a video clip of this, but it would have been all a blur and the only sounds you would hear would be my squeaky voice terror-filled voice commanding whomever to slow down because we were surely going to roll over. Not really something I want the world to hear!
Oh, I forgot to mention that all the guys (and I think my sis did, too, except near the end) LOVED it! Their 2 or 3 hours wasn’t long enough by a long shot. I so wish I had a little bit of that ‘throw caution to the wind’ personality. Like when I was young…. hey, who am I kidding?! For better or worse, I am and pretty well always have been, a ‘play it safe’ kinda gal.
I do know that I probably will never again choose to ride the dunes again. A ride along a beach, yes; scaling mountains of sand? NO.
But I’d be happy to sit and watch from a safe perch somewhere.
This is more like it:
Day 4
Woke up and enjoyed a breakfast of bacon and eggs. Plans for the day included a trip to the Tillamook Cheese Factory, and of course, sampling delicious ice cream while we were there! Bought a couple of kites, and the cousins had fun for hours on the beach back at the campsite.
After supper, we headed to Cape Lookout Park hiking trail – the same one my girlfriend and I had experienced 3 years ago! And it was as beautiful as I remembered! The views were incredible! Made it back just as the sun was going down.
Day 5 Cool and breezy. Had a simple breakfast of granola and packed up our tent and belongings to head down to North Bend/Coos Bay.
Stopped at the Devil’s Punchbowl (but it was empty). Lots of views of the vast ocean. Arrived at our campsite about 4:30 pm. The site was more treed, but alas, we were not too near the ocean, and what we could walk to was just a cove. Not real scenic. We all played a game of Imaginit around the campfire, which was a hoot! Day 6 Dune Buggy Day!! The prebooked and highly anticipated expedition! Arrived at the Dunes about 10:30 a.m. Unfortunately, I realized I had left my driver’s license at home in BC! So, no dune buggy handling for me. I’d be the passenger only, which was really okay with me, at that point. One word to describe this experience…. Overwhelming! Actually, that’s not a strong enough word.
Tim was itching to get going!
Even before we were settled into our assigned buggy, I began feeling apprehensive.. I’ve never been one to enjoy taking a lot of risks, especially where safety is concerned. The mandatory video we watched before heading out, didn’t help; in fact, it sealed it for me. Everything that could go wrong was explained in detail. Lots of warnings, etc. I have a pretty active imagination, I guess, because suddenly it didn’t sound like so much fun to me. What was I thinking? I don’t remember feeling any fear as I called days earlier, booking our rides. But now… yikes. I’m not proud to say I was a total wimp for the next two hours, begging to be let out (but of course, where do you go when you’re trapped in mountains of sand with only other thrill -seeking dune buggy-ers around?) My sister had pity on me and jumped into our buggy, as Dave left for the sanity of an exciting ride with our b-i-l Matt. Guess what? We ended up following the guys into some trails that we probably shouldn’t have started out in, and we promptly got stuck!! We both felt like the buggy was going to tip at that point, but jumping out was probably not a good idea. That didn’t stop us, though. Thankfully, my capable nephew rescued us and set us on the right track once again. Only a few minutes later, we followed the guys up this very steep hill and promptly stopped right before we reached the top. There we sat, almost vertical, frozen by the fear of backing down, and not being able to go forward. Luckily, the guys came around and saved us once again. So, as you can see, although we were laughing our heads off at times, I REALLY was praying that time would fly so we could head back.
I would show you a video clip of this, but it would have been all a blur and the only sounds you would hear would be my squeaky voice terror-filled voice commanding whomever to slow down because we were surely going to roll over. Not really something I want the world to hear!
Oh, I forgot to mention that all the guys (and I think my sis did, too, except near the end) LOVED it! Their 2 or 3 hours wasn’t long enough by a long shot. I so wish I had a little bit of that ‘throw caution to the wind’ personality. Like when I was young…. hey, who am I kidding?! For better or worse, I am and pretty well always have been, a ‘play it safe’ kinda gal.
I do know that I probably will never again choose to ride the dunes again. A ride along a beach, yes; scaling mountains of sand? NO.
But I’d be happy to sit and watch from a safe perch somewhere.
This is more like it:
Aug 16, 2010
Enough is Enough
Couldn't help myself. I've only tried about 1000 times. Just can't do it.
Hair in my eyes drives me crazy! I tried to grow my bangs out. (Why are they called BANGS, anyway?!?)
I cut them. Again. Didn't have the patience to let a professional do it.
I feel so much better now.
Hair in my eyes drives me crazy! I tried to grow my bangs out. (Why are they called BANGS, anyway?!?)
I cut them. Again. Didn't have the patience to let a professional do it.
I feel so much better now.
Aug 11, 2010
The Island Experience
Thought I’d share a few pictures of our last week spent with Dave’s mom while she was recovering from her hip replacement surgery. It wasn’t really a holiday (especially not for HER!) , but staying at the condo which is a stone’s throw from the water, listening to the sound of the waves lapping on the shore, and looking out at the ocean --- well, I couldn’t complain too much! It was still a getaway of sorts. And we were glad to be able to help out where we could. By the end of the week, Mom was doing a lot better.
Smoke for the BC Interior wildfires made its way to the Island. We had a couple of days of very gray, smoky skies.
Aaaah…much better. Most of our days looked like this:
Lots of sail boats…
7 juicy blackberries in the hand are worth more than..
… 1000 not-quite-ripe ones in the bush!
Along the SeaWalk… near the 50th parallel ..
..sits a bench with a special plaque set in the cement. Dave’s dad (at the age of 23) and his new bride came to CR in 1953 to set up the town’s first chiropractic clinic--for all of the town’s 200 or so people! Some were skeptical, but he proved himself over and over, building a very successful and highly respected practice for 44 years.
Strolling along, pushing Mom in the wheelchair. Soon she will be walking it once again!
I never tire of taking pictures of driftwood!
Along with dinner with old friends, enjoying some time with family, and other little excursions here and there, the week flew by. Now it’s back to some sort of routine. Before I know it, it’ll be back to school!! I’m not ready!!!!
Aug 3, 2010
The Touristy Thing
The other day, I slipped my feet into my sandals, slung my pack over my shoulders, checked for my wallet, plugged in my iPod, and began my half hour walk into the sleepy downtown area of Vancouver Island's Campbell River (population 30,000?). I don’t usually prefer to spend time alone window shopping – I think it would be a whole lot more fun with a girlfriend, – but this time I was looking forward to it.
Dave and I have been staying at his mom’s oceanfront Condo for the past few days, helping her as she is recuperating from hip replacement surgery. I’m in charge of the cooking/cleaning/shopping/laundry, and Dave is looking after foot massages, helping his mom with her exercises, appointments, and just being a listening ear. Oh, I often chat along, too, but it’s a special time for his mom to have time with her son, whom she doesn’t see too often since we live about 8 hours away from here (including a ferry ride).
Anyway, sometimes one needs time away and I heard there was a little used bookstore on the main street heading into town. So, I took the trek into town, admiring the view of the water as I went along. I spent a good 45 minutes in the store, scanning the crowded aisles for some good reads. Unfortunately, the prices weren’t as good as Value Village! I have a hard time paying more than a few dollars for a used book, unless it’s a collectible or something I’ve been looking for for a while. But, to its credit, the shop did have a discount bin, and I found 2 summer holiday reads for Dave—for the total price of $1. Even if the books were duds, it would be no big loss. Nothing for myself, though, but it didn’t really matter, since I did take along a backpack full of books from home for this holiday. It’s not like I NEEDED to purchase any more books. Sometimes it’s just fun to treasure hunt, though.
Feeling somewhat peckish, I headed across the street to a Booster Juice-type shop and ordered a delicious ginger/mango/coconut smoothie – the best ever! – and sat outside and sipped it as I rested my weary legs and began reading one of Dave’s books. Once I was ready to move again, I bee-lined it to the yarn shop I spotted across the street. What a wonderful place! So, I browsed a while and finally decided upon a few skeins of sock yarn – projects for Christmas presents (I’m hoping).Then, I popped my ear buds in once again, and began my exit back to the Condo.
Several hours away was just what I needed. Time alone. Quiet. Relaxing. And a good brisk stroll felt great! I’ve been sitting around and eating a bit too much lately! I’d show you pics, but my camera cord is at home, so that will have to wait.
Do you ever take the time away from your home and family, simply enjoying your own company?
Dave and I have been staying at his mom’s oceanfront Condo for the past few days, helping her as she is recuperating from hip replacement surgery. I’m in charge of the cooking/cleaning/shopping/laundry, and Dave is looking after foot massages, helping his mom with her exercises, appointments, and just being a listening ear. Oh, I often chat along, too, but it’s a special time for his mom to have time with her son, whom she doesn’t see too often since we live about 8 hours away from here (including a ferry ride).
Anyway, sometimes one needs time away and I heard there was a little used bookstore on the main street heading into town. So, I took the trek into town, admiring the view of the water as I went along. I spent a good 45 minutes in the store, scanning the crowded aisles for some good reads. Unfortunately, the prices weren’t as good as Value Village! I have a hard time paying more than a few dollars for a used book, unless it’s a collectible or something I’ve been looking for for a while. But, to its credit, the shop did have a discount bin, and I found 2 summer holiday reads for Dave—for the total price of $1. Even if the books were duds, it would be no big loss. Nothing for myself, though, but it didn’t really matter, since I did take along a backpack full of books from home for this holiday. It’s not like I NEEDED to purchase any more books. Sometimes it’s just fun to treasure hunt, though.
Feeling somewhat peckish, I headed across the street to a Booster Juice-type shop and ordered a delicious ginger/mango/coconut smoothie – the best ever! – and sat outside and sipped it as I rested my weary legs and began reading one of Dave’s books. Once I was ready to move again, I bee-lined it to the yarn shop I spotted across the street. What a wonderful place! So, I browsed a while and finally decided upon a few skeins of sock yarn – projects for Christmas presents (I’m hoping).Then, I popped my ear buds in once again, and began my exit back to the Condo.
Several hours away was just what I needed. Time alone. Quiet. Relaxing. And a good brisk stroll felt great! I’ve been sitting around and eating a bit too much lately! I’d show you pics, but my camera cord is at home, so that will have to wait.
Do you ever take the time away from your home and family, simply enjoying your own company?
Jul 27, 2010
the Holiday
Well, I think it’s time to reminisce about some of the highlights of our 8 day trip to through Washington, down the Oregon Coast, and into Northern Californ-I-A. And I’ll do it with pictures, for the most part…
Washington – we zipped down to Leavenworth, a little Bavarian-type village nestled in the hills of Washington, about 3 hours south of Osoyoos.
Car show – okay, this wasn’t a highlight for me, but it was neat to see so many perfect looking (and incredibly expensive!) Corvettes in one place.
Ice cream – licorice was the hands down favorite!
This T-shirt – perfect for the avid fisherman!
Southern Washington – the Windfarm!! So huge, so vast, so… strange!! Almost looked like another planet. Made me feel so small.
more to come…
Jul 25, 2010
A Million Miles in 8 Days
..or so it seemed. Will be back soon to tell you all about our trip down the Oregon Coast!
For now, I have camping gear to clean and organize and mountains of laundry to attend to. All the fun stuff... the price that must be paid for leaving the comforts of home and roughin' it!
For now, I have camping gear to clean and organize and mountains of laundry to attend to. All the fun stuff... the price that must be paid for leaving the comforts of home and roughin' it!
Jul 6, 2010
It must be Summer
School’s out!!
It’s been a busy week and a half or so. Unlike my usual life, we’ve had lots of company come through, some unexpected, but all welcomed. And we’ve had ‘social engagements’ coming out of the ying yang. Some work related, some church related, and then of course, friends and relatives. And there have been barbeques with friends and family. Am I tired yet?
And I’ve been enjoying cooking a few different items as well. Ever had quinoa? That’s ‘keen-wah’, according to foodie daughter, not ‘kwin-oh-wah’, as I first pronounced it. Anyway, I made a salad with it last week, and it was yummy.
And I cleaned out and organized my pantry (it got to the point where I was embarrassed to let anyone look in there that wasn’t blood related!) I’ve even labeled items! Crazy me.
So, last year my friend from years gone by, whom I hadn’t really communicated with for over 18 years, ‘friended’ me on Facebook. This inspired us to start an online book study together once a week this past winter, and this in turn led us to plan a reunion. Well, she and her husband were driving down from Alberta to visit family in Vancouver, and of course our fair city is right there on the way. So, I invited them over for coffee after all these years. And the four of us had a great time. So much, in fact, that I said, when you come through on your way home, come over for supper! So I’ve seen her twice in a week! It was one of those serendipities in life. I guess it was just time for us to reconnect. And I’m glad we did.
Two days ago, I got a call from my mom and dad, who I knew were heading out on holidays, but their time schedule is often a mystery, even to them. They don’t like to commit to plans, because it limits their holiday choices. You have to know them to understand this, but it is the way they are. It’s a running joke amongst the siblings. So, no I wasn’t surprised when Mom called out of the blue and said they were in town (!)- but it was just at the right time, because I was in a bit of a funk on Sunday, but having them come over pulled me right out of that. It was so nice to have them over for a couple of days, and now they’re carrying on to their next destination! Mom and I went out for coffee and had mother/daughter time, which I appreciate more and more as I get older. We can have some good talks, and I appreciate her wisdom and her ways more and more. She spoiled me and bought me some clothes, just ‘cause she wanted to. It was all good.
And the weather is nice today!
Looks like summer. Feels like summer. Smells like summer. Tastes like summer. Must be.
It’s been a busy week and a half or so. Unlike my usual life, we’ve had lots of company come through, some unexpected, but all welcomed. And we’ve had ‘social engagements’ coming out of the ying yang. Some work related, some church related, and then of course, friends and relatives. And there have been barbeques with friends and family. Am I tired yet?
And I’ve been enjoying cooking a few different items as well. Ever had quinoa? That’s ‘keen-wah’, according to foodie daughter, not ‘kwin-oh-wah’, as I first pronounced it. Anyway, I made a salad with it last week, and it was yummy.
And I cleaned out and organized my pantry (it got to the point where I was embarrassed to let anyone look in there that wasn’t blood related!) I’ve even labeled items! Crazy me.
So, last year my friend from years gone by, whom I hadn’t really communicated with for over 18 years, ‘friended’ me on Facebook. This inspired us to start an online book study together once a week this past winter, and this in turn led us to plan a reunion. Well, she and her husband were driving down from Alberta to visit family in Vancouver, and of course our fair city is right there on the way. So, I invited them over for coffee after all these years. And the four of us had a great time. So much, in fact, that I said, when you come through on your way home, come over for supper! So I’ve seen her twice in a week! It was one of those serendipities in life. I guess it was just time for us to reconnect. And I’m glad we did.
Two days ago, I got a call from my mom and dad, who I knew were heading out on holidays, but their time schedule is often a mystery, even to them. They don’t like to commit to plans, because it limits their holiday choices. You have to know them to understand this, but it is the way they are. It’s a running joke amongst the siblings. So, no I wasn’t surprised when Mom called out of the blue and said they were in town (!)- but it was just at the right time, because I was in a bit of a funk on Sunday, but having them come over pulled me right out of that. It was so nice to have them over for a couple of days, and now they’re carrying on to their next destination! Mom and I went out for coffee and had mother/daughter time, which I appreciate more and more as I get older. We can have some good talks, and I appreciate her wisdom and her ways more and more. She spoiled me and bought me some clothes, just ‘cause she wanted to. It was all good.
And the weather is nice today!
Looks like summer. Feels like summer. Smells like summer. Tastes like summer. Must be.
Jun 2, 2010
Oh, bother!
How hard is it to think and say only positive things? Mighty difficult, actually. With this PMC, I'm so aware of what I'm saying, especially after the fact.
Yesterday (Day 1 of PMC), I barely had my eyes open and I blew it.
You see, each and every morning we wake up to DJ voices, commercials and (sixties) music of the local AM radio. My husband is a radio technician, so he considers setting the music alarm to 'his' station the 'good employee' thing to do. He's very loyal to his radio stations, he is.
The first words that came out of my mouth were: "I hate that commercial so much". I can't say much more about it, though, because that would be negative talk, and I don't want to go there.
I guess I'll have to start getting up before the radio turns on in the morning... or I'll have to think of something encouraging to say about annoying radio ads (oops, there I go again!).
Yesterday (Day 1 of PMC), I barely had my eyes open and I blew it.
You see, each and every morning we wake up to DJ voices, commercials and (sixties) music of the local AM radio. My husband is a radio technician, so he considers setting the music alarm to 'his' station the 'good employee' thing to do. He's very loyal to his radio stations, he is.
The first words that came out of my mouth were: "I hate that commercial so much". I can't say much more about it, though, because that would be negative talk, and I don't want to go there.
I guess I'll have to start getting up before the radio turns on in the morning... or I'll have to think of something encouraging to say about annoying radio ads (oops, there I go again!).
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