We are fortunate enough to have season tickets to both the Sounders and Seahawks. A few years ago a friend of ours gave us a business card that gave us access to a prime parking location. We still have to walk a few blocks to the stadium but we don't have to pay for parking. For me, it makes the games much more enjoyable. I have always hated paying to park.
Over the past few years the parking attendant has been the same young gentleman. (I'm guessing he is in his mid twenties, maybe early thirties). He has always seemed pretty friendly and we feel like we know him.
The last Sounders game was very cold and this is when we got the idea to bring this man a coffee for the next game. So tonight we ordered a Starbucks mocha, made sure it was extra hot and delivered it to our parking attendant. We finally introduced ourselves and started chatting with him. He told us he had never been to a Sounders game but he did like watching soccer. Since we had two extra tickets that we were unable to get ride of we asked him if he wanted to use them. He told us his wife probably wouldn't let him. We encouraged him to ask her to come too.
He had to finish his job as a parking attendant and call his wife but together they joined us at halftime to watch the rest of a very fun Sounders game.
It was so fun to meet someone new, learn a little about their life, and to know that it was a blessing to them.
I love being blessed by others but it is truly so much better to bless others.
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Thursday, April 28, 2011
My sweet tooth
This is a confession. I have a sweet tooth. I like to think I don't because I want to act healthy. I want to know that I can say no to sweets. In fact, I just tried it. I gave up sweets for Lent and spent 40 days craving ice cream shakes, cookies, and some of my favorite chocolate treats. For the most part I resisted the temptations but there were a few moments of weakness, including my ice cream and cookie to celebrate our first date anniversary.
And then Easter came. My boys participated in three easter egg hunts. The last hunt was the biggest where they walked away with more than 50 easter eggs. The bad part about these easter eggs is they were filled with my sister's favorite candies, a striking similarity to my favorites.
The last five days has been a contrast to my healthy eating of the previous 40 days. I guess I do have a sweet tooth after all.
And then Easter came. My boys participated in three easter egg hunts. The last hunt was the biggest where they walked away with more than 50 easter eggs. The bad part about these easter eggs is they were filled with my sister's favorite candies, a striking similarity to my favorites.
The last five days has been a contrast to my healthy eating of the previous 40 days. I guess I do have a sweet tooth after all.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Tolo embarrassment
Something embarrassing that happened at school.
It was my junior year of high school and I was finally feeling confident enough (or maybe I was still a little naive) to ask a boy to our tolo. I thought he was cute and I didn't care that he was an entire grade younger than me. So I left a note on his car that said something similar to "You probably don't know me but do you want to go to tolo with me?" He looked me up in our yearbook and said yes.
A few weeks later I was on my way to tolo with this boy. I was dressed in this cute little red dress which I must say I wore quite well. After our dinner we went up to the top of the Space Needle. Yes, a romantic little adventure but I had no expectations or hopes of any hand holding or kissing. I was just enjoying the company and hoping I didn't do anything to embarrass myself.
As we stepped onto the observation deck I noticed that it was very windy (as it should be when you are that high up). I clutched onto my dress so it wouldn't blow around. We were barely on to the observation deck when my date stepped on the back of my little 1/2 inch high heel red shoe. I reached down to put my shoe back on and must have simultaneously let go of my dress. As soon as I stood up the wind came and my dress flew up. My date, my friend and her date were all looking in my direction. They did try their best to pretend they didn't see anything but then quickly realized they couldn't escape my embarrassment.
"Whoa! Sneak peek?" My friend responded.
All I could do was grab my dress and walk back inside to save myself from the wind.
It was my junior year of high school and I was finally feeling confident enough (or maybe I was still a little naive) to ask a boy to our tolo. I thought he was cute and I didn't care that he was an entire grade younger than me. So I left a note on his car that said something similar to "You probably don't know me but do you want to go to tolo with me?" He looked me up in our yearbook and said yes.
A few weeks later I was on my way to tolo with this boy. I was dressed in this cute little red dress which I must say I wore quite well. After our dinner we went up to the top of the Space Needle. Yes, a romantic little adventure but I had no expectations or hopes of any hand holding or kissing. I was just enjoying the company and hoping I didn't do anything to embarrass myself.
As we stepped onto the observation deck I noticed that it was very windy (as it should be when you are that high up). I clutched onto my dress so it wouldn't blow around. We were barely on to the observation deck when my date stepped on the back of my little 1/2 inch high heel red shoe. I reached down to put my shoe back on and must have simultaneously let go of my dress. As soon as I stood up the wind came and my dress flew up. My date, my friend and her date were all looking in my direction. They did try their best to pretend they didn't see anything but then quickly realized they couldn't escape my embarrassment.
"Whoa! Sneak peek?" My friend responded.
All I could do was grab my dress and walk back inside to save myself from the wind.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
A full bucket
I don't like spending money. It gives me a lot of anxiety and stress whenever I have to buy something. This is usually why I send my sister to the store for me. Not only is she a savvy shopper but she buys cute clothes and knows when she finds a bargain.
I am, however, a sucker for books. There's that scene in Beauty and the Beast when the Beast gives Belle the whole library. I understand her elation.
Anyways, the Easter bunny didn't do very well on baskets this year but he did leave a few books for the boys. This was one of them.
I read it to my boys this evening. At first I wasn't sure if it was really appropriate for my 4 and 2 year old because there were people doing mean things to the main character. But in the end it shows how we can fill up each other's buckets. When we do this we also make our buckets full.
Hopefully I can continue to teach my children how to add drops to buckets instead of taking them away.
I am, however, a sucker for books. There's that scene in Beauty and the Beast when the Beast gives Belle the whole library. I understand her elation.
Anyways, the Easter bunny didn't do very well on baskets this year but he did leave a few books for the boys. This was one of them.
I read it to my boys this evening. At first I wasn't sure if it was really appropriate for my 4 and 2 year old because there were people doing mean things to the main character. But in the end it shows how we can fill up each other's buckets. When we do this we also make our buckets full.
Hopefully I can continue to teach my children how to add drops to buckets instead of taking them away.
Monday, April 25, 2011
A Royal Wedding
There is certainly a lot of publicity about this upcoming royalty wedding. To be honest I haven't watched. It's not that I don't care, it's more that I don't want to get caught up in the celebrity gossip.
What would it be like to marry royalty? How would your life change? I would imagine you would already have a lot of confidence and a great deal of maturity to handle everything just leading up to the wedding; the courtship, the engagement, the planning. Sometimes I think I could handle it but then I remind myself of my last emotional breakdown where I cried because....oh I can't even remember anymore.
I don't plan on watching the wedding but I'm sure I will take a peek when I see reviews or replays. I want to be in the know when it comes to celebrity gossip but I don't want to know too much.
For the record, I think Kate is beautiful.
What would it be like to marry royalty? How would your life change? I would imagine you would already have a lot of confidence and a great deal of maturity to handle everything just leading up to the wedding; the courtship, the engagement, the planning. Sometimes I think I could handle it but then I remind myself of my last emotional breakdown where I cried because....oh I can't even remember anymore.
I don't plan on watching the wedding but I'm sure I will take a peek when I see reviews or replays. I want to be in the know when it comes to celebrity gossip but I don't want to know too much.
For the record, I think Kate is beautiful.
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Easter Egg Training
This past weekend was filled with some wonderful Easter traditions, mostly numerous Easter egg hunts. As my 4 year old and 2 1/2 year old went looking for eggs I couldn't help but think I need to start training them for Easter egg hunts.
Maybe it's just because my memories involve mad dashes, increased heart rates, and endless searching for the last possible Easter egg that just might still be buried underground.
This year my boys had three easter eggs and with each one they didn't have enough focus and weren't aggressive enough. This has to change, especially if I am going to get my Twix bars and Reese's peanut butter cup fix.
Initially I thought their laid back style was just a reflection of their age. They would see an egg and it took a few minutes to register before their eyes would light up. So, yes they were excited, but then, instead of quickly running to grab the egg, they would think about it and finally pick up the egg to put it in the basket. However, there were a few times when one of my sons would pick up an egg and for whatever reason (maybe it wasn't heavy enough) would throw it back on the ground.
It was so hard to watch all of this unfold. My competitive nature wanted me to tell them to go quickly, get as many as they could and to find the hardest ones. And right along side of them was their cousin. The same age as one of my sons, 2 1/2, but younger than my oldest, running as fast as he could, anxious to get the next egg, and trying to carry as many as he could. He does not need Easter egg training but maybe he can give my boys a few pointers.
I'm hoping for a little improvement for next year.
Maybe it's just because my memories involve mad dashes, increased heart rates, and endless searching for the last possible Easter egg that just might still be buried underground.
This year my boys had three easter eggs and with each one they didn't have enough focus and weren't aggressive enough. This has to change, especially if I am going to get my Twix bars and Reese's peanut butter cup fix.
Initially I thought their laid back style was just a reflection of their age. They would see an egg and it took a few minutes to register before their eyes would light up. So, yes they were excited, but then, instead of quickly running to grab the egg, they would think about it and finally pick up the egg to put it in the basket. However, there were a few times when one of my sons would pick up an egg and for whatever reason (maybe it wasn't heavy enough) would throw it back on the ground.
It was so hard to watch all of this unfold. My competitive nature wanted me to tell them to go quickly, get as many as they could and to find the hardest ones. And right along side of them was their cousin. The same age as one of my sons, 2 1/2, but younger than my oldest, running as fast as he could, anxious to get the next egg, and trying to carry as many as he could. He does not need Easter egg training but maybe he can give my boys a few pointers.
I'm hoping for a little improvement for next year.
Friday, April 22, 2011
Mowing through chores
Today was beautiful. I had the chance to be outside and was able to complete one of my favorite chores, mowing the lawn.
It may seem a little odd but I have always loved this chore. My parents would often ask if I wanted to empty the dishwasher or mow the lawn. I didn't have to think twice it was always to mow the lawn. If I was a little smarter I should have always said emptying the dishwasher since it takes less than 5 minutes. Mowing the lawn took at least 45 minutes.
Today I had loads of laundry to finish, floors to sweep, and many other chores but I was more than happy to finish mowing hte lawn. And what a gratifying chore to complete.
It may seem a little odd but I have always loved this chore. My parents would often ask if I wanted to empty the dishwasher or mow the lawn. I didn't have to think twice it was always to mow the lawn. If I was a little smarter I should have always said emptying the dishwasher since it takes less than 5 minutes. Mowing the lawn took at least 45 minutes.
Today I had loads of laundry to finish, floors to sweep, and many other chores but I was more than happy to finish mowing hte lawn. And what a gratifying chore to complete.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Student lessons
Something students these days should know.
Kindergarten - You aren't going to learn to read from watching tv. You are going to learn to live by going outside to play.
1st grade - You can never say please or thank you enough.
2nd grade - Boys should always open the door for girls. Girls should let them and politely say thank you.
3rd grade - If a boy chases a girl around the playground (or vice versa) the best way to get him/her to stop is to ignore him/her. If you react and make it into a big deal he/she will keep chasing you.
4th grade - Sara, I know Katie is your friend and now you are mad because Katie is friends with Megan but Megan can still be friends with you. It's ok to have more than one friend.
5th - It's ok if you aren't good at math. It's ok if you aren't good at reading. It's ok if you aren't good at writing. You aren't going to be good at everything. It's not ok to give up. Always keep trying your best.
6th - Your teacher, your coach, your parents and every other important adult in your life is working really hard for you and cares very much for you.
7th - Deodorant is important. Wear it even if you don't think you stink.
8th grade - Don't worry about buying the latest fashion item. You will grow out of it soon. It will be out of style sooner and your money is best spent elsewhere.
9th - Be nice and kind to everyone. You never know what the person is going to to do for you later in life.
10th grade - You are not entitled to everything.
11th - If a phone rings, or beeps you don't have to answer it. There is no obligation to respond right away.
12th grade - Even though your valedictorian gives a speech about entering the real world, you are not about to enter the real world.
College - Don't worry if you failed one test in college. No one will ask you about it a year later....or two years later....or 10 years later.
Post - college - Just because you have a college degree it doesn't mean you will have a high paying job when you graduate. In fact, it doesn't even mean you will have a job.
Kindergarten - You aren't going to learn to read from watching tv. You are going to learn to live by going outside to play.
1st grade - You can never say please or thank you enough.
2nd grade - Boys should always open the door for girls. Girls should let them and politely say thank you.
3rd grade - If a boy chases a girl around the playground (or vice versa) the best way to get him/her to stop is to ignore him/her. If you react and make it into a big deal he/she will keep chasing you.
4th grade - Sara, I know Katie is your friend and now you are mad because Katie is friends with Megan but Megan can still be friends with you. It's ok to have more than one friend.
5th - It's ok if you aren't good at math. It's ok if you aren't good at reading. It's ok if you aren't good at writing. You aren't going to be good at everything. It's not ok to give up. Always keep trying your best.
6th - Your teacher, your coach, your parents and every other important adult in your life is working really hard for you and cares very much for you.
7th - Deodorant is important. Wear it even if you don't think you stink.
8th grade - Don't worry about buying the latest fashion item. You will grow out of it soon. It will be out of style sooner and your money is best spent elsewhere.
9th - Be nice and kind to everyone. You never know what the person is going to to do for you later in life.
10th grade - You are not entitled to everything.
11th - If a phone rings, or beeps you don't have to answer it. There is no obligation to respond right away.
12th grade - Even though your valedictorian gives a speech about entering the real world, you are not about to enter the real world.
College - Don't worry if you failed one test in college. No one will ask you about it a year later....or two years later....or 10 years later.
Post - college - Just because you have a college degree it doesn't mean you will have a high paying job when you graduate. In fact, it doesn't even mean you will have a job.
Monday, April 18, 2011
little things
Sometimes its the little things that get to me. They seem to creep their way into my thoughts and I simply start having a pity party. It's hard to even begin to explain what it is that gets to me. It might be the fact that I didn't get a full 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep or it could be the piles of clothes or the long to do list that never gets accomplished. Or maybe the dirty shower I see every morning as I tell myself today I need to clean the shower and then I never do. Sometimes its the little moments when I wonder why my body isn't as perfect as I want it to be.
I hate (and I rarely use the word hate) how these things can quickly get to me.
Most of the time it seems to slowly fade away. But there are other times I have to stop, pray and be thankful for all that I am blessed with. It's so easy to say and so hard to do. We all struggle. We all have pain. We all long for perfection. It is only through my faith in Jesus, knowing He is perfect, and He can comfort that gets me through these days of little things.
I hate (and I rarely use the word hate) how these things can quickly get to me.
Most of the time it seems to slowly fade away. But there are other times I have to stop, pray and be thankful for all that I am blessed with. It's so easy to say and so hard to do. We all struggle. We all have pain. We all long for perfection. It is only through my faith in Jesus, knowing He is perfect, and He can comfort that gets me through these days of little things.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Where would I be?
I worked at a Christian Summer Camp shortly after college. This was also before I met my husband. It was a time in my life where I didn't have too much responsibility so I could make little money and be a counselor at a summer camp. The circumstances leading to my hire and actually working there happened very quickly but I am so thankful I had the chance to be part of this summer camp. It was another life experience that helped me grow in my faith as a follower of Jesus.
One of the great things about that camp was the opportunity I had to spend some time with the camp director. I approached her and asked if she would do a bible study (or a book study) with me. She was a very busy lady but still took the time to mentor me, pray with me and encourage me in my life. We did an exercise together that challenged me to be confident in God's plan for my life and to also embrace the place I am in at the moment. Oh, that's so hard to do.
She asked me to pick an occupation and a place where I would want to be working. It could be anywhere in the world.
My initial answer contained excuses. I don't want to move far from my family. I want to be married and have kids. I can't do that because I don't have any experience.
Her response. Don't think about those extra things. What would you do if you didn't have to worry about family? If you knew you would be married (eventually) with kids? If you had the instruction and experience to pursue it.
So, what did I want to do?
I wanted to be a dancer in Australia (I may have changed the country...but it was definitely not an American location)
The 2nd part of this exercise was to come up with two other "careers" and locations that would eventually take me to be a dancer in Australia.
I don't remember exactly what my other two were but I think it was a teacher and a dolphin trainer. A teacher in England and a dolphin trainer in Hawaii.
I think about this exercise often, especially as I am in the middle of wiping bottoms, building train tracks and employing my mommy voice. I love where I am in my life. I love what I do. But I know I don't have to lose sight of things that make me happy for whatever strange reason that may be....even if it is as a dolphin trainer just so I can swim with dolphins.
One of the great things about that camp was the opportunity I had to spend some time with the camp director. I approached her and asked if she would do a bible study (or a book study) with me. She was a very busy lady but still took the time to mentor me, pray with me and encourage me in my life. We did an exercise together that challenged me to be confident in God's plan for my life and to also embrace the place I am in at the moment. Oh, that's so hard to do.
She asked me to pick an occupation and a place where I would want to be working. It could be anywhere in the world.
My initial answer contained excuses. I don't want to move far from my family. I want to be married and have kids. I can't do that because I don't have any experience.
Her response. Don't think about those extra things. What would you do if you didn't have to worry about family? If you knew you would be married (eventually) with kids? If you had the instruction and experience to pursue it.
So, what did I want to do?
I wanted to be a dancer in Australia (I may have changed the country...but it was definitely not an American location)
The 2nd part of this exercise was to come up with two other "careers" and locations that would eventually take me to be a dancer in Australia.
I don't remember exactly what my other two were but I think it was a teacher and a dolphin trainer. A teacher in England and a dolphin trainer in Hawaii.
I think about this exercise often, especially as I am in the middle of wiping bottoms, building train tracks and employing my mommy voice. I love where I am in my life. I love what I do. But I know I don't have to lose sight of things that make me happy for whatever strange reason that may be....even if it is as a dolphin trainer just so I can swim with dolphins.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
No Shortcuts to the Top
I just read No Shortcuts to the Top by Ed Viesturs with David Roberts
My first book review.
My husband had read this and thought I would like it too. Since I had an upcoming weekend without kids I was excited that I would be able to spend some time reading it.
After starting the first two pages I was a little bummed because I knew this wasn't going to be a book that I would be able to consume in one evening. My hopes of reading three or four books during my kid free weekend were slowly fleeting away. The first two pages hooked my interest and compelled me to read through the entire book.
It is not a gripping, page turning, exciting story. However, it is a very interesting story of Ed Viestur's quest to climb all 14 mountains that are over 8,000 meters. Along the way we learn about Ed's personal journey as he balances his career, his social life and his desire to be a mountaineer. It is more interesting to me because he currently lives on Bainbridge Island and spent many years in the greater Seattle area. Reading about places he lived or visited that are familiar to me makes a book that much more enjoyable.
I did not finish my book during my kid free weekend but I was able to finish it just a few days after.
This book has me thinking about climbing Mt.Everest Rainier. Maybe I can add that to my list of life goals. I will have to think about it a little more. It does sound like a challenge.
My first book review.
My husband had read this and thought I would like it too. Since I had an upcoming weekend without kids I was excited that I would be able to spend some time reading it.
After starting the first two pages I was a little bummed because I knew this wasn't going to be a book that I would be able to consume in one evening. My hopes of reading three or four books during my kid free weekend were slowly fleeting away. The first two pages hooked my interest and compelled me to read through the entire book.
It is not a gripping, page turning, exciting story. However, it is a very interesting story of Ed Viestur's quest to climb all 14 mountains that are over 8,000 meters. Along the way we learn about Ed's personal journey as he balances his career, his social life and his desire to be a mountaineer. It is more interesting to me because he currently lives on Bainbridge Island and spent many years in the greater Seattle area. Reading about places he lived or visited that are familiar to me makes a book that much more enjoyable.
I did not finish my book during my kid free weekend but I was able to finish it just a few days after.
This book has me thinking about climbing Mt.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Nada Prada
What do the contents of your handbag/purse “say” about you?
Nada Prada. Nada Purse.
Just a wallet. Barely bigger than the size of a credit card it contains my driver's license, credit, debit, starbucks and library card. There are a few insurance cards and a business card from a salon. Of all my things the little pictures I have of my family are the very first things you see.
What does this say about me?
Simple - I don't like to carry stuff. The more stuff I have to carry the more stress it seems to add to my day. Yet, I often stress when I don't have something I need. A kleenex or a pen. But somehow I have always survived and I have learned to manage when I haven't had something.
Low Maintenance - I don't need much. It doesn't take me very long to get ready for the day or to get up and go somewhere.
It's that simple.
Nada Prada. Nada Purse.
Just a wallet. Barely bigger than the size of a credit card it contains my driver's license, credit, debit, starbucks and library card. There are a few insurance cards and a business card from a salon. Of all my things the little pictures I have of my family are the very first things you see.
What does this say about me?
Simple - I don't like to carry stuff. The more stuff I have to carry the more stress it seems to add to my day. Yet, I often stress when I don't have something I need. A kleenex or a pen. But somehow I have always survived and I have learned to manage when I haven't had something.
Low Maintenance - I don't need much. It doesn't take me very long to get ready for the day or to get up and go somewhere.
It's that simple.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Daylight
I woke up this morning at what seemed to be an insanely early time, just so I could get a workout in at the gym. I am going to bed this evening because I am tired. But the thing that makes me happy is that even at the insane time that I wake up the sun is almost up. And now that I am almost ready for bed it seems as if the sun just went down for the day.
I love this time of year when the days start to get longer and the weather (in theory) starts to get warmer. It makes living in this part of the world one of the best places to be. I want to cherish these longer days because they quickly turn into short cold days. If only I could slow down time.
I love this time of year when the days start to get longer and the weather (in theory) starts to get warmer. It makes living in this part of the world one of the best places to be. I want to cherish these longer days because they quickly turn into short cold days. If only I could slow down time.
Monday, April 11, 2011
The Magic Pill
I am someone who needs 8 hours of sleep. I'm still not sure how I survive those first months of each of my children's lives when I don't get nearly that much sleep but now when things are (somewhat) normal I need 8 hours of sleep. I try really hard to get into bed by 9:30 so I can be sleeping by 10:00 so that I can wake up at 6:00 to go for a run (or other workout) before the little ones wake up for the day. Even tonight it's past 10:00 and I am just finishing up my writing (my goal to write something every day) and I am tired but still want to read some of my book I am currently reading.
Oh, how I wish there was a magic pill that meant I didn't have to go to sleep. But then would I really get anything done. I would probably still have a messy house, a long list of things to do, lots of blogs to read, phone calls to make, e-mails to send, and books to read. If all these things still existed I think I would still try the magic pill. But until that comes around I'm off to try and get my 8 hours of sleep. Wish me luck!
Oh, how I wish there was a magic pill that meant I didn't have to go to sleep. But then would I really get anything done. I would probably still have a messy house, a long list of things to do, lots of blogs to read, phone calls to make, e-mails to send, and books to read. If all these things still existed I think I would still try the magic pill. But until that comes around I'm off to try and get my 8 hours of sleep. Wish me luck!
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Slowing Down for Starbucks
This past weekend my husband and I took a trip down to Eugene, Oregon. We were fortunate enough to have our relatives watch our boys so that we could have a weekend away. But our weekend away was a sort of business trip so there wasn't much in the way of relaxing, but we got away without kids and that counts for something.
Whenever we go on trips we try to make the drive as enjoyable as possible and this includes a stop at Starbucks. It's nice to make part of the drive go by faster while sipping on a little treat. I never feel guilty about the cost or the calories when a Starbucks is part of the trip.
As we were driving back I was talking to my sister or actually texting with her since that is how a lot of communication is done these days. She hadasked texted me to see what I was doing next weekend and if I wanted to play soccer. I told her we had plans to have dinner with some friends. Her response was "You guys only slow down for Starbucks."
Sometimes it seems to be true. Our lives seem to get filled up with so many different activities that it becomes challenging to actually sit and breathe. We relish the weekends or days where we have nothing on our calendar and can just hang out with no agenda. But at the same time our days are filled with wonderful things, with family, friends, and making memories. We do hope we can always slow down for Starbucks but also hope to slow down to enjoy these memories we are making.
Whenever we go on trips we try to make the drive as enjoyable as possible and this includes a stop at Starbucks. It's nice to make part of the drive go by faster while sipping on a little treat. I never feel guilty about the cost or the calories when a Starbucks is part of the trip.
As we were driving back I was talking to my sister or actually texting with her since that is how a lot of communication is done these days. She had
Sometimes it seems to be true. Our lives seem to get filled up with so many different activities that it becomes challenging to actually sit and breathe. We relish the weekends or days where we have nothing on our calendar and can just hang out with no agenda. But at the same time our days are filled with wonderful things, with family, friends, and making memories. We do hope we can always slow down for Starbucks but also hope to slow down to enjoy these memories we are making.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
A rule I broke
This is part of Mama Kat's Writing Workshop. (Mama Kat is a friend of mine from high school and I'm excited that I will be able to participate in her writing workshops)
My dating life was, well let's just say I didn't have much of a dating life. Looking back I can see some of the things I may have done that prohibited me from actually meeting guys. My biggest obstacle was the many rules I created for actually going on a date.
1. He has to ask me out.
2. He must have the following qualities. blah, blah, blah, blah
3. I have to know him or at least have some mutual friends.
He asked me out. He was a complete stranger. I had no idea who he was, except that he played soccer on a different team. I googled his name.
He wasn't on a (watch out for this guy) list. I took a risk and broke my rule. We went on a date.
8 years later we are more than happily married with 3 wonderful kids.
Some rules are meant to be broken.
My dating life was, well let's just say I didn't have much of a dating life. Looking back I can see some of the things I may have done that prohibited me from actually meeting guys. My biggest obstacle was the many rules I created for actually going on a date.
1. He has to ask me out.
2. He must have the following qualities. blah, blah, blah, blah
3. I have to know him or at least have some mutual friends.
He asked me out. He was a complete stranger. I had no idea who he was, except that he played soccer on a different team. I googled his name.
He wasn't on a (watch out for this guy) list. I took a risk and broke my rule. We went on a date.
8 years later we are more than happily married with 3 wonderful kids.
Some rules are meant to be broken.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Instilling Values
As a mother I am constantly thinking about what is best for my boys. From activities they are involved in to friends they encounter I worry, wonder, and pray about their lives. One of the most important things for me is that my boys know God and Jesus. I want them to see the beauty that surrounds us as one of God's wonderful creations. I want them to know that each and every person was beautifully and perfectly created by God. I want them to know they can always talk to God. In my many efforts to teach them and show them these things I was able to witness one of the many ways God is working on their little hearts.
I was playing with the boys when I looked out the window and saw an ambulance at the end of our road. It obviously was there for some medical emergency. We don't know these neighbors but it still had me wondering what could have happened. I pointed out the ambulance to the boys mostly because of their great interest in fire engines, trucks, aid cars, or anything with wheels. Colt was excited to see it. Brody saw it too and quickly came running to me.
"Mom, Mom. I prayed for the people in the ambulance."
I know I can't do it all and so I am reminded that I too must pray for wisdom, guidance, and patience as I raise these sweet, tender hearted little boys.
I was playing with the boys when I looked out the window and saw an ambulance at the end of our road. It obviously was there for some medical emergency. We don't know these neighbors but it still had me wondering what could have happened. I pointed out the ambulance to the boys mostly because of their great interest in fire engines, trucks, aid cars, or anything with wheels. Colt was excited to see it. Brody saw it too and quickly came running to me.
"Mom, Mom. I prayed for the people in the ambulance."
I know I can't do it all and so I am reminded that I too must pray for wisdom, guidance, and patience as I raise these sweet, tender hearted little boys.
Monday, April 4, 2011
running buddy
During my last year of teaching we had a long term substitute for our P.E. teacher. Her name was Andrea and my students absolutely adored her. (I really wish she would have been my long term substitute). Over the few months that our teaching overlapped I got to know Andrea a little bit. I learned that she was a runner in high school and she seemed very nice. Fast forward to 6 or 7 months later when I was going for a run in my neighborhood. When I first saw her I didn't know it was Andrea but I remember thinking "well, she's fast." Once I recognized her I stopped her and confirmed that I knew her from Sunny Hills.
Now almost 3 years later Andrea is one of my best running buddies. She is faster than me which is great because it pushes me to go a little harder. She only lives a few blocks away so we meet regularly in the early morning to get in a run before the day starts. The past few months we have been running three days a week with a hard workout on Wednesdays. I don't like those days.
She's on spring break this week. So this morning I had to drag myself out of bed and go for a run by myself. It was painful, both physically and mentally. But I did it. I'm proud of myself any time I go for a run. But while I was running I was reminded of two things I am thankful for. I am thankful I can run and I am so thankful for a running buddy. Especially a running buddy who rarely cancels on me and is always up for another race.
Now almost 3 years later Andrea is one of my best running buddies. She is faster than me which is great because it pushes me to go a little harder. She only lives a few blocks away so we meet regularly in the early morning to get in a run before the day starts. The past few months we have been running three days a week with a hard workout on Wednesdays. I don't like those days.
She's on spring break this week. So this morning I had to drag myself out of bed and go for a run by myself. It was painful, both physically and mentally. But I did it. I'm proud of myself any time I go for a run. But while I was running I was reminded of two things I am thankful for. I am thankful I can run and I am so thankful for a running buddy. Especially a running buddy who rarely cancels on me and is always up for another race.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Neighbors
Somewhere I heard "Neighbors are like family. You don't get to choose them. You are stuck with them." Fortunately I have been stuck with a great family. And as neighbors go I have been stuck with some great neighbors. Growing up next door to the Rice family was one of my great memories from childhood. I have many memories that I will likely share on this blog, but it is important to first understand their family.
The Rices had 8 kids. Their oldest twin boys were the same age as my brother. The next in line was Brian who was only 2 months younger than me. Next, was another boy that was a few weeks older than my youngest sister. (this meant that my older sister didn't have a built in neighbor playmate). Their 5th and 6th children were girls. Number seven was another boy and their last child was a girl. All these kids were about two years apart. (except the difference between the twins and Brian was three). And to answer your question, yes they are Catholic.
They started building their house at the same time my parents built ours. Essentially we have known them since I was born (since I was born in that house...the same one my parents live in now).
They are one of the sweetest families you will meet. They genuinely care about people and never hesitate to make others feel included in things. We were always invited on their camping trips, mountain climbing excursions, or walks to our local State Park. And every one of those trips was always an adventure.
One day my Aunt came over to visit with her family. This was my mom's sister. She was married to Steve and had 4 kids (at the time). We were all hanging out at our house when we noticed that Steve was talking to our neighbor Jim. They seemed to really hit it off. It didn't take us very long to learn that Steve and Jim were brothers! Isn't this odd? How could two brothers not know where each other live and not make that connection earlier? Well, apparently Jim & Steve came from a family of 14 kids and there was such an age difference between them that they hadn't really kept in touch. Whenever our cousins would come to visit we would send them over to visit their other cousins. It's such a crazy world!
More neighbor stories to come....
The Rices had 8 kids. Their oldest twin boys were the same age as my brother. The next in line was Brian who was only 2 months younger than me. Next, was another boy that was a few weeks older than my youngest sister. (this meant that my older sister didn't have a built in neighbor playmate). Their 5th and 6th children were girls. Number seven was another boy and their last child was a girl. All these kids were about two years apart. (except the difference between the twins and Brian was three). And to answer your question, yes they are Catholic.
They started building their house at the same time my parents built ours. Essentially we have known them since I was born (since I was born in that house...the same one my parents live in now).
They are one of the sweetest families you will meet. They genuinely care about people and never hesitate to make others feel included in things. We were always invited on their camping trips, mountain climbing excursions, or walks to our local State Park. And every one of those trips was always an adventure.
One day my Aunt came over to visit with her family. This was my mom's sister. She was married to Steve and had 4 kids (at the time). We were all hanging out at our house when we noticed that Steve was talking to our neighbor Jim. They seemed to really hit it off. It didn't take us very long to learn that Steve and Jim were brothers! Isn't this odd? How could two brothers not know where each other live and not make that connection earlier? Well, apparently Jim & Steve came from a family of 14 kids and there was such an age difference between them that they hadn't really kept in touch. Whenever our cousins would come to visit we would send them over to visit their other cousins. It's such a crazy world!
More neighbor stories to come....
Saturday, April 2, 2011
Journal? Blog?
Brad asked me if this blog what I was going to have on this blog. Was it going to be like a journal? And honestly, I don't know. I am not sure what I am going to write about or what this blog will end up being like even a year from now. I do hope that I will be consistent in my writing and over time will see improvement or at least I will become a more confident writer.
A few of the topics I might write about.
My old neighbors
My new neighbors
Soccer
Funny stories
Mom thoughts
Book ideas
Other goals/dreams
I'm sure there will be others. I'm open to ideas. :)
A few of the topics I might write about.
My old neighbors
My new neighbors
Soccer
Funny stories
Mom thoughts
Book ideas
Other goals/dreams
I'm sure there will be others. I'm open to ideas. :)
Friday, April 1, 2011
Accountability
When I first started thinking about running a marathon I was going on some shorter runs with my neighbor, Brian. (I will probably have lots of stories with him in them.) He was a lot faster than me but graciously ran at my pace for every single run. I told him I had thought about running a marathon and he encouraged me to sign up for one. He told me once I signed up then I would have to do it. Well, I listened to him and signed up. About 5 months later I finished my first marathon.
Although I did a lot of training on my own he ran parts of my long runs with me. But the bottom line is that I had told him I was running a marathon. I was accountable to him. I knew if I didn't finish it he would ask me why. I eventually told other people of my plans to run a marathon. I learned along the way that I accomplish more and follow through with my plans if I tell people and ask for accountability. This is part of the reason I have started this blog so that I can tell a few more people about my hope to write a children's book but also to be accountable to actually writing something. These posts will not always (and probably rarely) be about children's books, but they will encourage me to write something every day. With more practice I will become a better writer (well, hopefully anyways.)
Although I did a lot of training on my own he ran parts of my long runs with me. But the bottom line is that I had told him I was running a marathon. I was accountable to him. I knew if I didn't finish it he would ask me why. I eventually told other people of my plans to run a marathon. I learned along the way that I accomplish more and follow through with my plans if I tell people and ask for accountability. This is part of the reason I have started this blog so that I can tell a few more people about my hope to write a children's book but also to be accountable to actually writing something. These posts will not always (and probably rarely) be about children's books, but they will encourage me to write something every day. With more practice I will become a better writer (well, hopefully anyways.)
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