I just wanted to make an update about biking Emily to school. We are somewhere between 14 and 15 weeks into school. That's about 70 days, and not that I have gone every morning (Eric takes her on the Scooter when he can...but now it is getting too cold for that), but nearly every day I'm making the trip to school on the bike. It's nearly 560 miles that I've biked in the past few months, and all with around 65 pounds in the trailer. Let me just say that with that continual exercise, I am feeling quite fit. AND, I especially find the windy days the most valuable exercise days...that trailer really catches the wind and I have to pump hard in order to make progress. It's definitely made me stronger!
I really love riding the bike and have benefited from the "have to" of school transport. Yes, it is still our CHOICE to do it this way, but it's that nudge of expectation that keeps me going. I'm a little disappointed that there won't be school next week because then I'll have to create reasons to get on the bike...and with nowhere to go if the coolness stays.
18 November 2011
17 November 2011
Proof Copy
It is here! It is here!
This is one of the most exciting personal accomplishments (differentiated from family/eternal goals) of my life. I have helped write and book and we've published it! Granted, in this day and age, being "published" and publishing a book are two separate things. Nonetheless, I will claim my goal of getting a book published. This has thrown me forward into completing other tasks and taking my writing more seriously.
So, I have this book now in printed form where I can spot those errors you don't notice until it is printed and I can also verify that the layout works. It's so exciting and fun. Seeing our work in this format is exhilarating.
Mr. Jarrett and I are meeting again today so I can show him the book. He made a request this time, one that I realize needs to be put down on paper for my own posterity. He wants me to tell him MY life story. I'm very excited to do this and start (again) on writing my autobiography. This is my passion...well, one of them. It's just so addicting! But, I guess that is how every passion is, right?
So, be looking for my announcement that you can get your own copy! (Seriously, it is something my family is totally into...a personal history, a family member, WWII, etc.)
This is one of the most exciting personal accomplishments (differentiated from family/eternal goals) of my life. I have helped write and book and we've published it! Granted, in this day and age, being "published" and publishing a book are two separate things. Nonetheless, I will claim my goal of getting a book published. This has thrown me forward into completing other tasks and taking my writing more seriously.
So, I have this book now in printed form where I can spot those errors you don't notice until it is printed and I can also verify that the layout works. It's so exciting and fun. Seeing our work in this format is exhilarating.
Mr. Jarrett and I are meeting again today so I can show him the book. He made a request this time, one that I realize needs to be put down on paper for my own posterity. He wants me to tell him MY life story. I'm very excited to do this and start (again) on writing my autobiography. This is my passion...well, one of them. It's just so addicting! But, I guess that is how every passion is, right?
So, be looking for my announcement that you can get your own copy! (Seriously, it is something my family is totally into...a personal history, a family member, WWII, etc.)
14 November 2011
Bunnies in the Attic
Okay, so they aren't real bunnies, nor are they in the attic. However, it's frustrating to think that my vacuum cleaner does not have a long enough hose to slurp up the dust bunnies that have been residing atop my cabinets. Instead, I got to fluff them out of hiding and try to chase them to the floor where I'd be better able to grab them with the vacuum.
It's amazing where dirt and dust and the like can hide...and stick. I need a taller ladder, but most of the (inside) house has now been washed ...and some places need a touch up of paint because I scrubbed a little harder than I should. Still, it's nice to have that Fall Cleaning done.
And, it was nice to be able to get all of that cleaning done with the windows open and enjoying all of the nice, fresh, warm air of today. I love this time of year in Georgia. It's warm during the day and cool to cold at night. It's fantastic and perfect weather for biking.
And as for those bunnies...rest in peace in the bliss of the trashcan.
It's amazing where dirt and dust and the like can hide...and stick. I need a taller ladder, but most of the (inside) house has now been washed ...and some places need a touch up of paint because I scrubbed a little harder than I should. Still, it's nice to have that Fall Cleaning done.
And, it was nice to be able to get all of that cleaning done with the windows open and enjoying all of the nice, fresh, warm air of today. I love this time of year in Georgia. It's warm during the day and cool to cold at night. It's fantastic and perfect weather for biking.
And as for those bunnies...rest in peace in the bliss of the trashcan.
11 November 2011
Productive Day
Without having to break up the day with Emily's school schedule, I was a most productive mommy today. I made some pajama pants for my tall and skinny Emily. I finally got around to making my flannel board which is MUCH more transportable and store-able than it would have been had I made it a couple of years ago when I purchased the material. I got the kitchen clean, and have had time to be a mommy to my girls and a listening ear for one of my best friends. VERY productive and I'm quite pleased that it isn't even dinner time yet!
10 November 2011
My Collection
I'm somewhat concerned about what people may think after reading this, but I promise, it is all kosher and above-board. For whatever reason, I collect men. Yes, you read that correctly. I only realized that I have this "collection" today as I was pondering on people I love. Don't get me wrong, I also have a "collection" of women in my life, but I haven't had as tight of bonds with women (that isn't to say I didn't have great girls as friends...but you know, the hero-type didn't really happen until later) until my adulthood, so the list is quite a bit shorter.
My whole life, I have adopted many grandpa's along the way. It never mattered to me that they weren't my biological ones. They just always made me feel happy and appreciated and will just listen to me...or share their own stories with me. Sadly I did not have those relationships with my biological grandfathers...mostly due to physical distance and the fact that they are both gone now, too.
My first memory is of a neighbor gentleman who owned a little cafe in our town. In this case, both 'D' and his wife 'F' were like doting grandparents to me. I would skip over to their house and sweep their porch for 5 cents (which I would later spend on candy in their store). I have always kept fond memories of this couple...people who I didn't stay in contact with but ones I can't wait to see again in the next life. As we approach the Christmas season, I have vivid and fond memories of their gigantic (seriously, it was kind of bent over at the top to fit in the room) white Christmas tree. It was spectacular and I loved that my family sang Christmas carols to them every year and we received a plate of goodies in return. In my mind, that is still the perfect Christmas setting.
The next individual I remember adopting is Mr. L. He was an elderly farmer and loved to have us come across the street to visit. He wrote me a couple of times while I was away at college and I'm sure he never knew how much I adored him. I never knew his wife, but he was very fun loving and affectionate. I'm sure she was spoiled....and probably dished it out as it was given to her, too!
Another gentleman who was fun loving and enjoyed giving me a hard time was Bro. L down in Lake Havasu. He was a very handsome old man and taught me that joy is the true pursuit in life.
Next was "Grandpa W". Oh, what a joy he was! He was so devoted to Christ and read his Bible every day. He only ever asked one thing from me and sadly I was unable to help him. Still, he was this loving and kind gentleman who promised to take care of me if my husband ever left me. And I know he totally would have, had the need ever been a reality.
And, of course "Elder W" who I still look to as a grandpa figure. This was another couple who were just perfect for and to each other. They are an example to both my husband and me of the kind of marriage and family we desire to have and are striving to create.
My next grandpa became a relative. Grandaddy was an amazing man. I was blessed to literally sit at his feet and listen to his stories of his life and learn his testimony and insights to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Beautiful. A man I definitely hope I'm living worthy so I can see him again.
There are also a couple of gentlemen in my current ward who I adore and am so grateful for their love and support. One in particular, Bro. G, always finds the right moment to give me a compliment and send me sky high that I have won his praise. And, someday I will discover the "secret" identity I have from Bro. P...but he won't tell me until I'm "older." He always makes me feel beautiful.
Now I have Mr. J who is an incredible friend, distant family and finds the way to be an incredible blessing to our family at every turn.
Then there is another set of men who are more like uncles or fathers to me. Responding to an inquiry, my companion and I met the "N's" who I love both of them dearly. They really helped me to love my singing voice and, well, I bragged on them in the last post. Really, their humility and meekness is just so moving. Along the same time, I met another couple who reached out to me after the mission and helped me transition into the "real" world. They, too, captured my heart and appreciation. That also spurs me onto memories of two different bishops I served with about the same time who gave me great council and insight into truths of life living the gospel. In like manner, my mission president has been another great example and influence in my life.
That isn't even to mention the wonderful father AND father-in-law I have been blessed with. Great men. PLUS, of course, my wonderful husband who teaches me so much every day.
I just want to acknowledge during this month of thanks that I have plenty of wonderful examples of good men in my life. I am also grateful for those men who I have mentioned that honorably hold God's priesthood and have further blessed my life. There are wonderful women I love, too, but today I want to say thanks to the men of my life.
My whole life, I have adopted many grandpa's along the way. It never mattered to me that they weren't my biological ones. They just always made me feel happy and appreciated and will just listen to me...or share their own stories with me. Sadly I did not have those relationships with my biological grandfathers...mostly due to physical distance and the fact that they are both gone now, too.
My first memory is of a neighbor gentleman who owned a little cafe in our town. In this case, both 'D' and his wife 'F' were like doting grandparents to me. I would skip over to their house and sweep their porch for 5 cents (which I would later spend on candy in their store). I have always kept fond memories of this couple...people who I didn't stay in contact with but ones I can't wait to see again in the next life. As we approach the Christmas season, I have vivid and fond memories of their gigantic (seriously, it was kind of bent over at the top to fit in the room) white Christmas tree. It was spectacular and I loved that my family sang Christmas carols to them every year and we received a plate of goodies in return. In my mind, that is still the perfect Christmas setting.
The next individual I remember adopting is Mr. L. He was an elderly farmer and loved to have us come across the street to visit. He wrote me a couple of times while I was away at college and I'm sure he never knew how much I adored him. I never knew his wife, but he was very fun loving and affectionate. I'm sure she was spoiled....and probably dished it out as it was given to her, too!
Another gentleman who was fun loving and enjoyed giving me a hard time was Bro. L down in Lake Havasu. He was a very handsome old man and taught me that joy is the true pursuit in life.
Next was "Grandpa W". Oh, what a joy he was! He was so devoted to Christ and read his Bible every day. He only ever asked one thing from me and sadly I was unable to help him. Still, he was this loving and kind gentleman who promised to take care of me if my husband ever left me. And I know he totally would have, had the need ever been a reality.
And, of course "Elder W" who I still look to as a grandpa figure. This was another couple who were just perfect for and to each other. They are an example to both my husband and me of the kind of marriage and family we desire to have and are striving to create.
My next grandpa became a relative. Grandaddy was an amazing man. I was blessed to literally sit at his feet and listen to his stories of his life and learn his testimony and insights to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Beautiful. A man I definitely hope I'm living worthy so I can see him again.
There are also a couple of gentlemen in my current ward who I adore and am so grateful for their love and support. One in particular, Bro. G, always finds the right moment to give me a compliment and send me sky high that I have won his praise. And, someday I will discover the "secret" identity I have from Bro. P...but he won't tell me until I'm "older." He always makes me feel beautiful.
Now I have Mr. J who is an incredible friend, distant family and finds the way to be an incredible blessing to our family at every turn.
Then there is another set of men who are more like uncles or fathers to me. Responding to an inquiry, my companion and I met the "N's" who I love both of them dearly. They really helped me to love my singing voice and, well, I bragged on them in the last post. Really, their humility and meekness is just so moving. Along the same time, I met another couple who reached out to me after the mission and helped me transition into the "real" world. They, too, captured my heart and appreciation. That also spurs me onto memories of two different bishops I served with about the same time who gave me great council and insight into truths of life living the gospel. In like manner, my mission president has been another great example and influence in my life.
That isn't even to mention the wonderful father AND father-in-law I have been blessed with. Great men. PLUS, of course, my wonderful husband who teaches me so much every day.
I just want to acknowledge during this month of thanks that I have plenty of wonderful examples of good men in my life. I am also grateful for those men who I have mentioned that honorably hold God's priesthood and have further blessed my life. There are wonderful women I love, too, but today I want to say thanks to the men of my life.
09 November 2011
To A Couple I Love
I feel like I have been greatly blessed with the people who have been a part of my life. I believe that "family" is more than those with blood ties. It is created from those who love you even in your faults, but who are willing to help you overcome them.
There was a couple who was just fantastic to me while I was on my mission...and forever after. We'll call them the "N's". Such wonderful, humble, loving people. They have been an example to me of what a marriage should be: best friends having fun and enjoying one another's company. They didn't need anyone else, although they did allow others into their unique circle. They never spoke ill of the other. They just loved each other so deeply. They were inseparable.
Well, the time for the physical separation happened last week. Husband "N" has been through the ringer with health issues: stomach ulcers, cancer, etc. His body finally gave out last week and he is on to the next life and receiving that relief from the pain he has experienced over the past umpteen years. I wonder how much pain he has been relieved from and how much new pain is there as he is separated from his wife this way...and her, too. He probably feels even worse for her.
Even at this sad moment in time, I am grateful for the bonds that tie us together. I am grateful to be worthy of being notified of such an event. I'm grateful that I, too, can call my close friends after long periods of time to say "I love you" and it not to be awkward.
There are a great many wonderful people in my life. If I haven't called lately to tell you, know that I do love you and that it is my own feelings of unworthiness or "uninterestingness" that keeps me from doing so more often.
To the "N's": I love you with my whole heart. You have been special individuals and a special couple in my life. Thank you for teaching me all that you did...especially the stuff you didn't even know you were teaching. I love you and I'm sorry for missing the opportunities to call and tell you as much. If I could put a recording on here, I'd dedicate "I Know That My Redeemer Lives". In lieu of my own recording, I dedicate this to you.
There was a couple who was just fantastic to me while I was on my mission...and forever after. We'll call them the "N's". Such wonderful, humble, loving people. They have been an example to me of what a marriage should be: best friends having fun and enjoying one another's company. They didn't need anyone else, although they did allow others into their unique circle. They never spoke ill of the other. They just loved each other so deeply. They were inseparable.
Well, the time for the physical separation happened last week. Husband "N" has been through the ringer with health issues: stomach ulcers, cancer, etc. His body finally gave out last week and he is on to the next life and receiving that relief from the pain he has experienced over the past umpteen years. I wonder how much pain he has been relieved from and how much new pain is there as he is separated from his wife this way...and her, too. He probably feels even worse for her.
Even at this sad moment in time, I am grateful for the bonds that tie us together. I am grateful to be worthy of being notified of such an event. I'm grateful that I, too, can call my close friends after long periods of time to say "I love you" and it not to be awkward.
There are a great many wonderful people in my life. If I haven't called lately to tell you, know that I do love you and that it is my own feelings of unworthiness or "uninterestingness" that keeps me from doing so more often.
To the "N's": I love you with my whole heart. You have been special individuals and a special couple in my life. Thank you for teaching me all that you did...especially the stuff you didn't even know you were teaching. I love you and I'm sorry for missing the opportunities to call and tell you as much. If I could put a recording on here, I'd dedicate "I Know That My Redeemer Lives". In lieu of my own recording, I dedicate this to you.
How To Know When a Gift Stinks
I've noticed a few things in my gift-giving years. First of all, I really hate gifts. I know that sounds really awful, but it is really true. I hate the wondering if the person is going to like it and being there to see it opened is even worse (although, receiving gifts is much worse in my book...I don't like THAT at all).
I've made gifts for lots of people and have exercised my ability, or inability as the case may be, to sew. I can tell if people liked it because I will either a.) hear about it or b.) see it worn. And, in the best cases, both will happen.
In the latest instance, I can tell that it wasn't what it was cracked up to be. Granted, the items I made were new and a whole different pattern brand was used. But, the way I know...the recipient hasn't made a single comment on it. That's okay. I guess it is different when you are paying for it versus getting a complete gift. In this case, it was my time and effort that was the gift, not the purchase of materials and that's a major difference.
Still, it just brings me right back to the whole gift-giving. I hate it and I probably always will.
I've made gifts for lots of people and have exercised my ability, or inability as the case may be, to sew. I can tell if people liked it because I will either a.) hear about it or b.) see it worn. And, in the best cases, both will happen.
In the latest instance, I can tell that it wasn't what it was cracked up to be. Granted, the items I made were new and a whole different pattern brand was used. But, the way I know...the recipient hasn't made a single comment on it. That's okay. I guess it is different when you are paying for it versus getting a complete gift. In this case, it was my time and effort that was the gift, not the purchase of materials and that's a major difference.
Still, it just brings me right back to the whole gift-giving. I hate it and I probably always will.
04 November 2011
Cutest Outfit, Ever!
I am so in love with working with velour. Seriously, it made the more adorable blessing outfit. I'm pleased with the results AND I used another nifty tool called "snap tape". Seriously, amazing.
Of course, I'd share the picture, but I tragically did not take one with my camera, only my phone. So, we'll all just have to wait and see how it fits the recipient.
And, some day, once upon a future time, I really would love to have a sewing station. I'm not saying I require a whole room, but a space that I can just leave in the midst of a project and not worry. I'd like, in that space, for a table a bit taller than my dining table, and a chair slightly taller than my dining chairs. Why? Because I get this killer back pain as I hunch over and create.
The End.
Of course, I'd share the picture, but I tragically did not take one with my camera, only my phone. So, we'll all just have to wait and see how it fits the recipient.
And, some day, once upon a future time, I really would love to have a sewing station. I'm not saying I require a whole room, but a space that I can just leave in the midst of a project and not worry. I'd like, in that space, for a table a bit taller than my dining table, and a chair slightly taller than my dining chairs. Why? Because I get this killer back pain as I hunch over and create.
The End.
01 November 2011
Family, Distant or Close
We just got home from an enjoyable evening with our friend Mr. Jarrett. I took him the latest modifications on his book. It was exciting to print the first page to decide on size and formatting. It's incredible to be at this stage.
After fiddling with that a little and deciding on the next steps to take, we all went out to dinner with him. I was a little concerned because Gianna hasn't been herself lately and I didn't want him to be perturbed by small children in a restaurant. He was delighted and was completely entertained by her. In fact, he declared her to be a genius which I am totally pleased by. Of course, I think my children are some of the brightest and best children out there, so I'm flattered when someone else says so, too. He ended up paying for all of our meals (which was NOT cheap!) and made me promise not to wait long to call.
On the ride home, Eric and I again discussed the need for me to go visit him more frequently. I realize that the book may never come to print because we can forever tinker with it AND it keeps an "excuse" for us to stay in contact. I need to show him that this is more than a working relationship. I adore the man and don't mind spending time with him. I don't think he knows how much I idolize him and am tickled to know that we share ancestors and I can truly call him family.
I've heard people comment that they don't know what individuals do when they don't have "family" around...generally referencing immediate family members (parents, siblings). I KNOW that we create our own "family" through our selection of friends. It's just all the more incredible when a friendship is forged and then the family connection is discovered.
On this, a day when we are supposed to remember our ancestors, I want to say that I am grateful for the great Family Tree that connects us to my beloved friend Mr. Jarrett. I'm honored to be in company like his.
After fiddling with that a little and deciding on the next steps to take, we all went out to dinner with him. I was a little concerned because Gianna hasn't been herself lately and I didn't want him to be perturbed by small children in a restaurant. He was delighted and was completely entertained by her. In fact, he declared her to be a genius which I am totally pleased by. Of course, I think my children are some of the brightest and best children out there, so I'm flattered when someone else says so, too. He ended up paying for all of our meals (which was NOT cheap!) and made me promise not to wait long to call.
On the ride home, Eric and I again discussed the need for me to go visit him more frequently. I realize that the book may never come to print because we can forever tinker with it AND it keeps an "excuse" for us to stay in contact. I need to show him that this is more than a working relationship. I adore the man and don't mind spending time with him. I don't think he knows how much I idolize him and am tickled to know that we share ancestors and I can truly call him family.
I've heard people comment that they don't know what individuals do when they don't have "family" around...generally referencing immediate family members (parents, siblings). I KNOW that we create our own "family" through our selection of friends. It's just all the more incredible when a friendship is forged and then the family connection is discovered.
On this, a day when we are supposed to remember our ancestors, I want to say that I am grateful for the great Family Tree that connects us to my beloved friend Mr. Jarrett. I'm honored to be in company like his.
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