A while ago I wrote about some of my favorite things. This list contains, in no particular order, things that bring a smile to my face.
My Favorite Things:
Sunflowers
Candles
Good N Plenty's
Diet Dr.Pepper
Bubble Bath
California Rolls
Live concerts
Walking outside
Estes Park / Alluvial Fan
Waterfalls
Dark Chocolate
Almonds - and almond butter
Terriyaki marinated steak
A good bottle of Pinot Noir
Cowboy hats and Wranglers
pickup trucks
Pizza from Liberty Deli in NYC
cool hats
sassy shoes
Annual Labor Day weekend trip to Estes Park
Monday, August 25, 2008
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Whew!
It has been a week.
I've hardly slept.
Every night this week has been a big. I had church events four nights this week. Crazy! But more than that...I've been dedicated to watching the Olympics. I've never watched them like this before. And for someone who doesn't watch anything on TV with regularity, it's been an odd feeling anxiously walking in the door and flipping on the great competition!
I have been fascinated with so many of the events. I've never watched swimming before, in fact I don't know if I could have told you the difference between all the different strokes. But now I not only know the difference, but understand how important breathing and turning is to winning a competition as well.
And of course I've loved the beach volleyball for many years. Kerri Walsh & Misty May-Treanor are on FIRE! I have loved watching them any chance I get on local broadcasting. What a great night when they won gold again. But how could I have missed Rogers and Dahlhauser the past couple of years? I was on the edge of my couch shouting with joy when Roger and my future husband won gold for the USA!
There have been so many exciting moments watching the Olympics. But my sleep has suffered. Therefore, my mind has suffered. While I'll miss the games, I am anxious for a more normal sleeping pattern to return to my life. I've turned into one of those "old" people I used to make fun of when they'd be tired all day if they stayed up past midnight. Wow, when did that happen?
I've hardly slept.
Every night this week has been a big. I had church events four nights this week. Crazy! But more than that...I've been dedicated to watching the Olympics. I've never watched them like this before. And for someone who doesn't watch anything on TV with regularity, it's been an odd feeling anxiously walking in the door and flipping on the great competition!
I have been fascinated with so many of the events. I've never watched swimming before, in fact I don't know if I could have told you the difference between all the different strokes. But now I not only know the difference, but understand how important breathing and turning is to winning a competition as well.
And of course I've loved the beach volleyball for many years. Kerri Walsh & Misty May-Treanor are on FIRE! I have loved watching them any chance I get on local broadcasting. What a great night when they won gold again. But how could I have missed Rogers and Dahlhauser the past couple of years? I was on the edge of my couch shouting with joy when Roger and my future husband won gold for the USA!
There have been so many exciting moments watching the Olympics. But my sleep has suffered. Therefore, my mind has suffered. While I'll miss the games, I am anxious for a more normal sleeping pattern to return to my life. I've turned into one of those "old" people I used to make fun of when they'd be tired all day if they stayed up past midnight. Wow, when did that happen?
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Me...trying to be funny
This morning after our staff meeting we all went back to the garage here at the office. Recently we had a free-standing shelf built that takes up the entire length of the garage. We were talking about how to secure it to the wall. One of the guys started talking about finding the studs and attaching something to the unit and securing it into the studs. "We just need to find the studs," he said. I replied, "well, I'm an exceptional stud finder...well, then again, I'm still single at 30...maybe I'm not that good afterall."
Yes, it's always good when you can laugh at yourself and where you find yourself in life. And that's part of what this blog is all about.
A few months ago I attended at Sweet Sixteen party for two girls in our high school youth group. It hit me that night that I have been dating as long as they have been alive. Wow! That was a shocker. You'd think in all that time I'd be much wiser when it comes to dating. And while I've learned many, many lessons, I'm sure there are many more for me to learn. So, I decided to break out my journals, and share some of what I have learned, and if I feel a bit vulnerable, share some of what I still struggle with as well.
More on those to come...
Yes, it's always good when you can laugh at yourself and where you find yourself in life. And that's part of what this blog is all about.
A few months ago I attended at Sweet Sixteen party for two girls in our high school youth group. It hit me that night that I have been dating as long as they have been alive. Wow! That was a shocker. You'd think in all that time I'd be much wiser when it comes to dating. And while I've learned many, many lessons, I'm sure there are many more for me to learn. So, I decided to break out my journals, and share some of what I have learned, and if I feel a bit vulnerable, share some of what I still struggle with as well.
More on those to come...
Two Pics...
I just got two pictures from when my sister and her family were in town. Check them out. One with me and my nieces...Ashlee & I were both wearing our black halter tops that day...big deal. And the other is all of us at the Alluvial Fan in Rocky Mountain National Park. Truly one of the most beautiful places in Colorado.
Enjoy!
Sunday, August 17, 2008
The Farmer's Daughter in me...
We have been getting great rain since Thursday night. It's the kind of rain that drizzles and drips all day long. The kind of rain that darkens the sky and you can tell these clouds are going to be around for a while. The kind of rain where you open your bedroom windows, curl under the covers, and get the best night of sleep you've had in a long time.
Growing up on a farm, I've learned to welcome the rain, no matter what it might interrupt. I was supposed to be in a 5K yesterday with a friend. We were ready to take on the elements when we got to the start. But the two days of rain had made the trail too muddy and they decided to cancel the event. I was bummed. But I kept that to myself. We need this rain.
Even this morning as we get ready for this to clear out and return to the typical August 90 degree days, I'm reveling in the cool and moisture. I'm hoping we squeeze in one more day of this cool damp weather before it gets hot again. It's been such a nice respite from our regular weather. Only in Colorado.
Growing up on a farm, I've learned to welcome the rain, no matter what it might interrupt. I was supposed to be in a 5K yesterday with a friend. We were ready to take on the elements when we got to the start. But the two days of rain had made the trail too muddy and they decided to cancel the event. I was bummed. But I kept that to myself. We need this rain.
Even this morning as we get ready for this to clear out and return to the typical August 90 degree days, I'm reveling in the cool and moisture. I'm hoping we squeeze in one more day of this cool damp weather before it gets hot again. It's been such a nice respite from our regular weather. Only in Colorado.
Sunday, August 10, 2008
The Last Day...
Tomorrow morning my sister and her family start their trek back to Wisconsin. They've been on the road and away from home for almost three weeks. It's time for them to head back and get the girls ready for school. This year, they all will be at school all day long. Big step.
For me, today is the last day I'll get to hang out with them, and hold them close. We'll all be together in six weeks for my brother's wedding. But that will be such a whirl wind trip, I doubt we'll really get a chance to just be together.
It's been a fabulous 10 days with them. We've had lots of time to laugh. In fact, us ladies spent a very humorous moment in a Kohl's dressing room Friday night. I think the margaritas at dinner may have helped the situation. The crazy dress I tried on didn't hurt either.
I spent a couple of hours with each niece on a special "date" designed just for them. They each chose what they wanted to do and Aunt Sarah had the opportunity to spoil them all with a treat of their choosing as well. Of course High School Musical and Hannah Montana were the favorites.
But mostly we've just enjoyed each others company. Like last night, I laid on the couch downstairs with my legs somewhat curled. One niece laying in the crook behind my legs, her head on my thigh. Another neice laying in the crook in front of me. What a great feeling. And then when they went to bed, the oldest took their spot and snuggled a while with me. I'm going to miss that feeling.
But what am I doing here blogging? I should be home with them soaking up the last moments of their trip!
For me, today is the last day I'll get to hang out with them, and hold them close. We'll all be together in six weeks for my brother's wedding. But that will be such a whirl wind trip, I doubt we'll really get a chance to just be together.
It's been a fabulous 10 days with them. We've had lots of time to laugh. In fact, us ladies spent a very humorous moment in a Kohl's dressing room Friday night. I think the margaritas at dinner may have helped the situation. The crazy dress I tried on didn't hurt either.
I spent a couple of hours with each niece on a special "date" designed just for them. They each chose what they wanted to do and Aunt Sarah had the opportunity to spoil them all with a treat of their choosing as well. Of course High School Musical and Hannah Montana were the favorites.
But mostly we've just enjoyed each others company. Like last night, I laid on the couch downstairs with my legs somewhat curled. One niece laying in the crook behind my legs, her head on my thigh. Another neice laying in the crook in front of me. What a great feeling. And then when they went to bed, the oldest took their spot and snuggled a while with me. I'm going to miss that feeling.
But what am I doing here blogging? I should be home with them soaking up the last moments of their trip!
Thursday, August 7, 2008
I just can't help myself
I'll be the first to admit I'm a sucker when it comes to my neices. They are just the cutest little girls ever! I don't know if I'll ever be a mom someday, so I love that I get to spoil them rotten...and I do. I just can't help myself when they put their little hands in mine, pull me up to a High School Musical or Hannah Montanna item they REALLY, REALLY want.
This has been a great week with my family. I've had "dates" with two of my nieces already...and one more to go on Saturday. Special time with just Aunt Sarah - who knew they would get so excited? I think they are on to me. I think they know I have a hard time saying "no" to them. I think they know that their little faces just brighten up my day. That holding them in my lap makes me feel so good. That holding their hand while we walk through the mall makes me feel so important and special.
Yes, it's been a very good week. I'm tired from the sleepover, the shopping, playing games, singing songs, climbing mountains, and in general being around all their un-ending energy about everything! But that's the beauty of kids...they get excited about everything. No matter how small they it is either the best thing or the end of their world as they know it. Such drama, such joy all rolled into a little body...and I'm thankful they are in my life.
This has been a great week with my family. I've had "dates" with two of my nieces already...and one more to go on Saturday. Special time with just Aunt Sarah - who knew they would get so excited? I think they are on to me. I think they know I have a hard time saying "no" to them. I think they know that their little faces just brighten up my day. That holding them in my lap makes me feel so good. That holding their hand while we walk through the mall makes me feel so important and special.
Yes, it's been a very good week. I'm tired from the sleepover, the shopping, playing games, singing songs, climbing mountains, and in general being around all their un-ending energy about everything! But that's the beauty of kids...they get excited about everything. No matter how small they it is either the best thing or the end of their world as they know it. Such drama, such joy all rolled into a little body...and I'm thankful they are in my life.
Monday, August 4, 2008
Is this me?
I recently took this temperement test. I love these types of tests because they make me feel less crazy because somebody already figured out that it's o.k. to be this way, and took the time to write about it. So, here's the breif description of my temperment...and I have to say I agree with the majority of what it says!
Idealist Portrait of the Champion (ENFP)
Like the other Idealists, Champions are rather rare, say two or three percent of the population, but even more than the others they consider intense emotional experiences as being vital to a full life. Champions have a wide range and variety of emotions, and a great passion for novelty. They see life as an exciting drama, pregnant with possibilities for both good and evil, and they want to experience all the meaningful events and fascinating people in the world. The most outgoing of the Idealists, Champions often can't wait to tell others of their extraordinary experiences. Champions can be tireless in talking with others, like fountains that bubble and splash, spilling over their own words to get it all out. And usually this is not simple storytelling; Champions often speak (or write) in the hope of revealing some truth about human experience, or of motivating others with their powerful convictions. Their strong drive to speak out on issues and events, along with their boundless enthusiasm and natural talent with language, makes them the most vivacious and inspiring of all the types.
Fiercely individualistic, Champions strive toward a kind of personal authenticity, and this intention always to be themselves is usually quite attractive to others. At the same time, Champions have outstanding intuitive powers and can tell what is going on inside of others, reading hidden emotions and giving special significance to words or actions. In fact, Champions are constantly scanning the social environment, and no intriguing character or silent motive is likely to escape their attention. Far more than the other Idealists, Champions are keen and probing observers of the people around them, and are capable of intense concentration on another individual. Their attention is rarely passive or casual. On the contrary, Champions tend to be extra sensitive and alert, always ready for emergencies, always on the lookout for what's possible.
Champions are good with people and usually have a wide range of personal relationships. They are warm and full of energy with their friends. They are likable and at ease with colleagues, and handle their employees or students with great skill. They are good in public and on the telephone, and are so spontaneous and dramatic that others love to be in their company. Champions are positive, exuberant people, and often their confidence in the goodness of life and of human nature makes good things happen.
Idealist Portrait of the Champion (ENFP)
Like the other Idealists, Champions are rather rare, say two or three percent of the population, but even more than the others they consider intense emotional experiences as being vital to a full life. Champions have a wide range and variety of emotions, and a great passion for novelty. They see life as an exciting drama, pregnant with possibilities for both good and evil, and they want to experience all the meaningful events and fascinating people in the world. The most outgoing of the Idealists, Champions often can't wait to tell others of their extraordinary experiences. Champions can be tireless in talking with others, like fountains that bubble and splash, spilling over their own words to get it all out. And usually this is not simple storytelling; Champions often speak (or write) in the hope of revealing some truth about human experience, or of motivating others with their powerful convictions. Their strong drive to speak out on issues and events, along with their boundless enthusiasm and natural talent with language, makes them the most vivacious and inspiring of all the types.
Fiercely individualistic, Champions strive toward a kind of personal authenticity, and this intention always to be themselves is usually quite attractive to others. At the same time, Champions have outstanding intuitive powers and can tell what is going on inside of others, reading hidden emotions and giving special significance to words or actions. In fact, Champions are constantly scanning the social environment, and no intriguing character or silent motive is likely to escape their attention. Far more than the other Idealists, Champions are keen and probing observers of the people around them, and are capable of intense concentration on another individual. Their attention is rarely passive or casual. On the contrary, Champions tend to be extra sensitive and alert, always ready for emergencies, always on the lookout for what's possible.
Champions are good with people and usually have a wide range of personal relationships. They are warm and full of energy with their friends. They are likable and at ease with colleagues, and handle their employees or students with great skill. They are good in public and on the telephone, and are so spontaneous and dramatic that others love to be in their company. Champions are positive, exuberant people, and often their confidence in the goodness of life and of human nature makes good things happen.
The Big Party
Yesterday afternoon my parents house and yard were filled with music, food, laughter, and chatter. It was a wonderful sound! All the hard work we put in the past few weeks, and especially the past two days, allowed us all to really enjoy the event.
30 people came to celebrate 60 years of life well-lived. It was a bit odd celebrating their birthdays in August, when their birthdays are in Feb and Nov. But no one seemed to care. Everyone enjoyed sharing stories, catching up with old friends, and grubbing on some amazing hamburgers!
My parents really are blessed. As we gathered to pray for our food, I looked around the circle that had formed. People from all stages of their life were their. Family, friends from church, old friends from BSF days, neighbors, all there to celebrate them. They have touched so many people in their life, and after all these years, so many people still care for them and love them. It humbled me to think that I don't even come close to their love and care for others. I realized I want to be more like them.
My mom has always put other people first. Always. As long as I can remember, she has always been doing for someone else. Helping in any way she possibly can to make sure that others are taken care of before her. And my dad! He's one of the most generous people I know. Even Saturday night he shows generosity to me that I was not expecting. Amazing man. I really am blessed to have such shining examples of how to treat others in my life.
And I can't close without mentioning my sister. She is truly wonderful. It was so much fun planning this party with her. We work so well together. I am the organizer and planner. She's so often the do-er. We worked hard this weekend to make this day special...and I think we did. I am confident that our parents felt honored and celebrated yesterday...and that's all that we could ever have asked for. We only wish our brother could have been here to join in the celebration.
What a success!
30 people came to celebrate 60 years of life well-lived. It was a bit odd celebrating their birthdays in August, when their birthdays are in Feb and Nov. But no one seemed to care. Everyone enjoyed sharing stories, catching up with old friends, and grubbing on some amazing hamburgers!
My parents really are blessed. As we gathered to pray for our food, I looked around the circle that had formed. People from all stages of their life were their. Family, friends from church, old friends from BSF days, neighbors, all there to celebrate them. They have touched so many people in their life, and after all these years, so many people still care for them and love them. It humbled me to think that I don't even come close to their love and care for others. I realized I want to be more like them.
My mom has always put other people first. Always. As long as I can remember, she has always been doing for someone else. Helping in any way she possibly can to make sure that others are taken care of before her. And my dad! He's one of the most generous people I know. Even Saturday night he shows generosity to me that I was not expecting. Amazing man. I really am blessed to have such shining examples of how to treat others in my life.
And I can't close without mentioning my sister. She is truly wonderful. It was so much fun planning this party with her. We work so well together. I am the organizer and planner. She's so often the do-er. We worked hard this weekend to make this day special...and I think we did. I am confident that our parents felt honored and celebrated yesterday...and that's all that we could ever have asked for. We only wish our brother could have been here to join in the celebration.
What a success!
Sunday, August 3, 2008
Star Gazing
I open my eyes to see the stars shifting in the sky.
I lay quietly as I have so many times before.
There before me spans the heavens, wide, dark, vast.
In a moment, my thoughts turn to the You, the one I love.
How did You create such an amazing scene for me to enjoy?
I feel so small, yet You touch me in a way that is intensely personal.
We begin to talk.
You tell me you love me.
I tell you how much I need you.
You tell me you love me.
I tell you the hurt in my life.
You tell me you love me.
I tell you I’m scared.
You tell me you love me.
Over and over again I hear Your voice.
“I love you. I have always loved you. I am always with you.”
And one by one I see them; Your special language to me.
It is then that I know You are thinking of me, at that very moment, You are thinking of me.
One by one each star shoots across the night sky, right in front of me.
Of all the places in the world for a star to fall, You choose for it to go right before me.
I ask to see it again. To know You are thinking of me.
I ask again and again and again.
Over and over, one by one, You release them to make their descent.
I lay there for a while longer.
Soaking in what just happened.
Replaying over in my mind what I just saw, just experienced.
I gather my things and start walking away, fully aware that You are walking with me, Your arms surrounding me, Your love filling me.
I lay quietly as I have so many times before.
There before me spans the heavens, wide, dark, vast.
In a moment, my thoughts turn to the You, the one I love.
How did You create such an amazing scene for me to enjoy?
I feel so small, yet You touch me in a way that is intensely personal.
We begin to talk.
You tell me you love me.
I tell you how much I need you.
You tell me you love me.
I tell you the hurt in my life.
You tell me you love me.
I tell you I’m scared.
You tell me you love me.
Over and over again I hear Your voice.
“I love you. I have always loved you. I am always with you.”
And one by one I see them; Your special language to me.
It is then that I know You are thinking of me, at that very moment, You are thinking of me.
One by one each star shoots across the night sky, right in front of me.
Of all the places in the world for a star to fall, You choose for it to go right before me.
I ask to see it again. To know You are thinking of me.
I ask again and again and again.
Over and over, one by one, You release them to make their descent.
I lay there for a while longer.
Soaking in what just happened.
Replaying over in my mind what I just saw, just experienced.
I gather my things and start walking away, fully aware that You are walking with me, Your arms surrounding me, Your love filling me.
Friday, August 1, 2008
This morning I couldn't sleep. I woke up at 5:30am with lists of things to do running through my mind...in fact, I just thought of one more. ...o.k...that's written down on the list now.
This weekend is a big weekend in our family. We celebrate my parents birthdays. Even though they are months apart, they both turn 60 this year. We are throwing them a party. It has taken several weeks and lots of planning, but we are seeing everything come together.
Yesterday, my sister and her family drove into town. It was so great to see my nieces again. Man, how I've missed them! Such little women they are turning out to be! I cannot wait for sleepover at Aunt Sarah's house next week, swimming in the pool, and on and on. They have a whole list of to do's while they are in CO.
And then there's the big weekend coming up in September. My little brother gets married! I cannot believe it! I'm torn, though. I am thrilled for him - and love his fiance. She's a great addition to our family - such a great fit for him. But of course, it makes me think about my own relationship life - or lack there of right now - and wonder if I will ever be able to stand next to someone someday and pledge all that I am, my life and my future, to one man. My eyes mist just thinking about it.
Just so much going on. So many good things. My heart is filled with love and joy right now. And my mind is still racing. I better get on with my day and make sure I get all the to-do's crossed off my list...I LOVE that feeling!
This weekend is a big weekend in our family. We celebrate my parents birthdays. Even though they are months apart, they both turn 60 this year. We are throwing them a party. It has taken several weeks and lots of planning, but we are seeing everything come together.
Yesterday, my sister and her family drove into town. It was so great to see my nieces again. Man, how I've missed them! Such little women they are turning out to be! I cannot wait for sleepover at Aunt Sarah's house next week, swimming in the pool, and on and on. They have a whole list of to do's while they are in CO.
And then there's the big weekend coming up in September. My little brother gets married! I cannot believe it! I'm torn, though. I am thrilled for him - and love his fiance. She's a great addition to our family - such a great fit for him. But of course, it makes me think about my own relationship life - or lack there of right now - and wonder if I will ever be able to stand next to someone someday and pledge all that I am, my life and my future, to one man. My eyes mist just thinking about it.
Just so much going on. So many good things. My heart is filled with love and joy right now. And my mind is still racing. I better get on with my day and make sure I get all the to-do's crossed off my list...I LOVE that feeling!
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