I love my family.
They're crazy, fun, and even though we don't always say it, we love each other. I felt that this weekend. Possibly one of the first times that I truly realized how much our family loves each other. It was my cousin, Matt's, wedding. He was the cousin who could really bridge the age gap. Even though my bros and I were so much younger than the rest of them, he could bring us all together. He would always include everyone in hanging out at family get-togethers. Even me who felt I had nowhere to fit in. Matt has a way of making everyone feel like he really cares about you and wants to know all about what you're doing and how you're doing. Everyone feels that way about Matt.
So his wedding was a true celebration. We had a party with an amazing Irish band (yay for Irish pride!) on Friday, wedding and sweet, sweet reception Saturday, and an open house with Mass on Sunday at my aunt and uncle's house. It was just a huge, Landers party. I danced and laughed the night away with my cousins and spouses/girlfriends on Saturday, and then was overwhelmed by the generosity of family on Sunday. What a beautiful weekend.
I am overwhelmed by the love and blessing of MY family.
Monday, July 02, 2007
Thursday, June 28, 2007
What makes ME come alive?
He asked me what made me come alive. Whew. What a question, and not an everyday question either. It's a question I should probably know the answer to. But I don't. I mean, yes, Jesus makes me come alive. The Holy Spirit does, but he wanted to know what else. So I gave him an answer. It was a half-hearted answer, and more of a questioned answer than a statement.
"People?" I replied, "Um....people make me come alive. I mean, I love being around people, and when I'm with people then I'm happy and alive....."
"Does writing make you come alive?" He prompted.
"Well, yeah, but not in the way that I want it to. I don't think I do enough of it."
"You need to make a habit of it, huh?"
"Yeah, maybe, probably."
"What else?"
I struggled, "Well, grand adventures...the everyday ones and the foreign land ones. Yeah, that's what makes me come alive..."
While those are all valid answers, they don't suffice for me. I feel like I just gave the everyday answers that are programmed into my memory so I don't struggle or have to think. What makes me come alive? What makes me come alive? Not a question that we often get to answer or think about. We should, though. I thought I knew what made me come alive, but now I'm not so sure. I've changed within the past year. The things that motivate me are different from one, two, three years ago. What makes me come alive? Not just a question I can give a one word answer to. And that's what I did yesterday.
What I want to know, friends, is what makes you come alive.
"People?" I replied, "Um....people make me come alive. I mean, I love being around people, and when I'm with people then I'm happy and alive....."
"Does writing make you come alive?" He prompted.
"Well, yeah, but not in the way that I want it to. I don't think I do enough of it."
"You need to make a habit of it, huh?"
"Yeah, maybe, probably."
"What else?"
I struggled, "Well, grand adventures...the everyday ones and the foreign land ones. Yeah, that's what makes me come alive..."
While those are all valid answers, they don't suffice for me. I feel like I just gave the everyday answers that are programmed into my memory so I don't struggle or have to think. What makes me come alive? What makes me come alive? Not a question that we often get to answer or think about. We should, though. I thought I knew what made me come alive, but now I'm not so sure. I've changed within the past year. The things that motivate me are different from one, two, three years ago. What makes me come alive? Not just a question I can give a one word answer to. And that's what I did yesterday.
What I want to know, friends, is what makes you come alive.
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Beat the heat right out of Iowa
It's hot outside. Extremely hot. So hot that I felt like melting into a puddle and wasting away into nothingness yesterday. So hot that all I wanted to do was swim. Anywhere. But I couldn't find that anywhere to swim. BUT I thought that before I got too complain-y, I should perhaps check and see what Rwanda's conditions are. I mean, we are, after all, going to be working under that African sun instead of sitting in a car in Iowa. I figured (well, after some suggestion from a wise friend) that I should maybe consider what I'm going to be doing in Rwanda before complaining about weather here.
But I can still complain.
...aaand another source:
(http://www.africaguide.com/country/rwanda/info.htm)
....aaaaand one more, just for fun.
"Elevation accounts for Rwanda's generally mild temperatures, which average 70° F (21° C) year-round at Kigali, for example, in the interior highlands."
(http://www.britannica.com/eb/article-40757/Rwanda)
Based on these extensive research findings, I conclude:
IOWA, YOU STINK!
You are waaaaay too stinking hot for your own good! You are even hotter than freaking AFRICA. Than Rwanda! 1 degree south of the EQUATOR!
I know, I know, you'll promise to get cooler soon. And that is the problem. Tomorrow it'll probably be 20 below zero out, while today it is 110 with a heat index of 157!!
Goodness gracious!
So yes, I can complain about the weather in Iowa, even though I am going to Rwanda, because, frankly, it's hotter here than there. I'm glad I'm beating the Iowa heat by going to Africa, as ironic as that statement seems (I know, I know, not all of Africa is on the equator, but people generally think of hot hot hotness when they think of Africa, so I am merely speaking of that stereotype).
*sidenote: a friend told me the other day that this is predicted to be the hottest summer on record.
I shake my fist at Iowa hotness!!!! On the other hand...I do get to go swimming today, thanks for the beautiful weather, Iowa!
But I can still complain.
- The sun shines nearly all year round, and, whatever the season, the mean daily temperature is close to 24 C (76F).
- The minimum night temperatures is around 10C (50F) and maximum daytime temperatures ranges about 34C (94F).
- During the dry seasons, which last from December to mid-March and from June to the end of August, frequent light cloud cover yields a pleasant, never stifling, temperature.
- Kigali , the capital city, is located on
...aaand another source:
(http://www.africaguide.com/country/rwanda/info.htm)....aaaaand one more, just for fun.
"Elevation accounts for Rwanda's generally mild temperatures, which average 70° F (21° C) year-round at Kigali, for example, in the interior highlands."
(http://www.britannica.com/eb/article-40757/Rwanda)
Based on these extensive research findings, I conclude:
IOWA, YOU STINK!
You are waaaaay too stinking hot for your own good! You are even hotter than freaking AFRICA. Than Rwanda! 1 degree south of the EQUATOR!
I know, I know, you'll promise to get cooler soon. And that is the problem. Tomorrow it'll probably be 20 below zero out, while today it is 110 with a heat index of 157!!
Goodness gracious!
So yes, I can complain about the weather in Iowa, even though I am going to Rwanda, because, frankly, it's hotter here than there. I'm glad I'm beating the Iowa heat by going to Africa, as ironic as that statement seems (I know, I know, not all of Africa is on the equator, but people generally think of hot hot hotness when they think of Africa, so I am merely speaking of that stereotype).
*sidenote: a friend told me the other day that this is predicted to be the hottest summer on record.
I shake my fist at Iowa hotness!!!! On the other hand...I do get to go swimming today, thanks for the beautiful weather, Iowa!
Monday, June 25, 2007
Weekend Dreams
I went in a hot-air balloon this weekend.
Okay....so I almost went in a hot-air balloon this weekend. Kat and I had near adventure after near adventure this past weekend. It was grand! Small-town and large-town festivaling. BBQ pork to spongy, squishy fields. We cursed the low clouds and cheered the excellent pizza. But best of all this weekend was hanging out with Kat and her lovely family at her grandparents' cutest house ever, making an excellent breakfast and eating it on the screened-in porch with birds singing and accompanying us in morning feasting, and watching TWO sets of fireworks with her relatives. Zipping across country roads to make the second set.
I almost went in a hot-air balloon this weekend, but that doesn't matter.
I went in a hot-air balloon this weekend.
Okay....so I almost went in a hot-air balloon this weekend. Kat and I had near adventure after near adventure this past weekend. It was grand! Small-town and large-town festivaling. BBQ pork to spongy, squishy fields. We cursed the low clouds and cheered the excellent pizza. But best of all this weekend was hanging out with Kat and her lovely family at her grandparents' cutest house ever, making an excellent breakfast and eating it on the screened-in porch with birds singing and accompanying us in morning feasting, and watching TWO sets of fireworks with her relatives. Zipping across country roads to make the second set.
I almost went in a hot-air balloon this weekend, but that doesn't matter.
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
A Taste of China
I FINALLY got to see Elsie last night. We talked for hours and hours about life, classes, our summer, and adventures. Amazing! Then, we inevitably moved to our favorite topic when we're together...food. We always talk about food at some point when we're together. Then, of course, we got hungry. I asked her where she likes to eat Chinese, and she told me May House. I'd always wanted to go there, but hadn't yet, so of course, we went. Oh, my, goodness! It was exactly the taste I had missed since coming back to the states almost a year ago. Sooooooo good! But the best part was being there with Elsie. She was impressed with my chopsticks skills, which made me proud. After the meal I had only finished 1/2 of my Beef Noodle Soup...the bowl was HUUUGE! (remember that dish, Kel? we had it a few times, but one of the times i remember was when we were at the place near Robert's...and yes, it had cilantro, i know how you looooved that!) YUM!
I FINALLY got to see Elsie last night. We talked for hours and hours about life, classes, our summer, and adventures. Amazing! Then, we inevitably moved to our favorite topic when we're together...food. We always talk about food at some point when we're together. Then, of course, we got hungry. I asked her where she likes to eat Chinese, and she told me May House. I'd always wanted to go there, but hadn't yet, so of course, we went. Oh, my, goodness! It was exactly the taste I had missed since coming back to the states almost a year ago. Sooooooo good! But the best part was being there with Elsie. She was impressed with my chopsticks skills, which made me proud. After the meal I had only finished 1/2 of my Beef Noodle Soup...the bowl was HUUUGE! (remember that dish, Kel? we had it a few times, but one of the times i remember was when we were at the place near Robert's...and yes, it had cilantro, i know how you looooved that!) YUM!
Monday, June 11, 2007
An Old Friend
She was a good dog. She was a good dog that we loved for almost 18 years. She was a troublesome pup, a sweet dog, a life-saver, and a loyal friend. My dad loved her and adored her. We all did. But we had to say goodbye to a dear, dear friend today.
Babe had gotten very sick the last year of her life. It was hard to see her in such pain, but she was a trooper until the end. Her many years of chasing cattle and chewing bones ended today as her tired, old body couldn't keep up with her puppy heart.
Here's a story that I wrote about Babe last fall.
* * *
It was so comfortable lying on this bench. It was Babe’s favorite spot to while away the day. There she lay, head on her front paws, her tail wagging lazily in the Iowa breeze. She gazed over the landscape before her, her eyes roving over the large, round-topped barn, plastic fence, and creaky swing set in the backyard. She let out a long sigh and closed her eyes. Babe thumped her tail on the worn, canvas bench seat. The edges were frayed from countless chewing and ripping with her claws. There was a nice worn spot in the middle cushion that was her favorite spot to lie.
Just as she was drifting off to dreams, she heard a whistle and a shout. Babe’s ears immediately perked up, and her tail began to wag furiously.
“Yeah, Babe, come on! It’s time for chores!” Brian yelled at her.
Babe sat up, her girth falling to the earth in folds beneath her as a result of gravity. She lazily slid off of the bench and slowly trotted over to the side of her master. Sitting crookedly, leaning on one paw, she gave her most pathetic brown-eyed gaze to her owner.
“Come on, girl, you won’t get off that easy today,” Brian scolded her, but softening, and giving her a pat on the head, “We’ve got a busy day today. How about you come in the truck with me?” Brian pulled open the squeaky white door of his Ford truck and patted the cracked leather seat. Babe wagged her tail, and jumped up into the truck with a wheeze and a grunt. It was getting harder to move every day. Brian slammed the door shut, climbed into the driver’s side, and gave Babe another pat on the head.
“You’re a good dog, Babe. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”
* * *
We'll live without her, but she will always be missed. She holds a place in all of our hearts, as well as in our flower bed. Thanks for all of the years and memories, Babe, my babygirl!
She was a good dog. She was a good dog that we loved for almost 18 years. She was a troublesome pup, a sweet dog, a life-saver, and a loyal friend. My dad loved her and adored her. We all did. But we had to say goodbye to a dear, dear friend today.
Babe had gotten very sick the last year of her life. It was hard to see her in such pain, but she was a trooper until the end. Her many years of chasing cattle and chewing bones ended today as her tired, old body couldn't keep up with her puppy heart.
Here's a story that I wrote about Babe last fall.
* * *
It was so comfortable lying on this bench. It was Babe’s favorite spot to while away the day. There she lay, head on her front paws, her tail wagging lazily in the Iowa breeze. She gazed over the landscape before her, her eyes roving over the large, round-topped barn, plastic fence, and creaky swing set in the backyard. She let out a long sigh and closed her eyes. Babe thumped her tail on the worn, canvas bench seat. The edges were frayed from countless chewing and ripping with her claws. There was a nice worn spot in the middle cushion that was her favorite spot to lie.
Just as she was drifting off to dreams, she heard a whistle and a shout. Babe’s ears immediately perked up, and her tail began to wag furiously.
“Yeah, Babe, come on! It’s time for chores!” Brian yelled at her.
Babe sat up, her girth falling to the earth in folds beneath her as a result of gravity. She lazily slid off of the bench and slowly trotted over to the side of her master. Sitting crookedly, leaning on one paw, she gave her most pathetic brown-eyed gaze to her owner.
“Come on, girl, you won’t get off that easy today,” Brian scolded her, but softening, and giving her a pat on the head, “We’ve got a busy day today. How about you come in the truck with me?” Brian pulled open the squeaky white door of his Ford truck and patted the cracked leather seat. Babe wagged her tail, and jumped up into the truck with a wheeze and a grunt. It was getting harder to move every day. Brian slammed the door shut, climbed into the driver’s side, and gave Babe another pat on the head.
“You’re a good dog, Babe. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”
* * *
We'll live without her, but she will always be missed. She holds a place in all of our hearts, as well as in our flower bed. Thanks for all of the years and memories, Babe, my babygirl!
Saturday, June 02, 2007
Dog Days of Summer
The sunshine.
The fresh air.
The splashing water.
Picnicking today with good friends and an adorable dog. Burgers grilling, iced tea in plastic cups, and warm peach pie covered the picnic table. After we filled our bellies, we explored, splashing through creeks. Bailey kept us all laughing as she waded and jumped in the water. Struggling against the current, Kim tried to keep hold of her and prevent her from being swept downstream. Emerging from the water, she tried to shake her wet hair that plastered her body to get dry. She still looked like a rat. Adorable. With more energy than the rest of us, she kept us walking through tiredness, always wanting to run ahead, pulling Kim behind her. Getting back home, we all crashed for naps...even Bailey.
Beautiful summer days.
The sunshine.
The fresh air.
The splashing water.
Picnicking today with good friends and an adorable dog. Burgers grilling, iced tea in plastic cups, and warm peach pie covered the picnic table. After we filled our bellies, we explored, splashing through creeks. Bailey kept us all laughing as she waded and jumped in the water. Struggling against the current, Kim tried to keep hold of her and prevent her from being swept downstream. Emerging from the water, she tried to shake her wet hair that plastered her body to get dry. She still looked like a rat. Adorable. With more energy than the rest of us, she kept us walking through tiredness, always wanting to run ahead, pulling Kim behind her. Getting back home, we all crashed for naps...even Bailey.
Beautiful summer days.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Beary StrangeSomewhere deep in Bear Country
Lives the Berenstain Bear family
They're kind of furry around the torso
They're a lot like people, only more so
The bear fact is that
They're just like you and me
The only difference
Is they live in a tree
This is an excerpt from the theme of the public television show "The Berenstain Bears." Now, I absolutely love the Berenstain Bears. I read the books as a child, and now Dennis and I watch the television show at work during our lunch break everyday. While I do love this show, I cannot help but note the falsehoods in the song. I know it's a children's show, but honestly, "They're a lot like people, only more so"??? "They're just like you and me, the only difference is they live in a tree"????? What do these statements even mean?? Who wrote this theme song? How was it seriously approved and used for the show? I'm all for using your imagination (I do everyday), but I just cannot understand how something could be more human than a human. Dennis and I just laugh and shake our heads everyday....crazy Berenstain Bears.
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
My name's not Alexander, but...
"Are you mad?"
"Yes!"
"Why are you mad?"
"Because I feel like it, okay?"
I wanted to laugh so bad when I said that, but something deep inside me forced me to scowl and grumble. Why was I acting like such a baby? Why was I acting like such a brat? The answer truly was that I just felt like being angry. I woke up too early with too little sleep, a tire on my bike was flat (and it had been going flat a lot recently), I had to ride Steven's bike to work, I didn't WANT to ride Steven's bike to work, I didn't have a rack on his bike on which to secure my purse, so it kept hitting me in the leg and falling off my shoulder, the bike kept switching gears on me when I didn't want it to....I was just mean. All of that stuff wasn't a big deal, but I forced myself to make it a big deal. I truly did want to laugh and shrug everything off, but my pride wouldn't let me. As my favorite childhood book would have proclaimed:
"It was a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day."
...But it actually wasn't all that terrible. It wasn't even all that horrible. After work, I walked out into the sunshine to find Chaz had ridden my bike to work and he had bought me a new tire. How I am spoiled. I am thankful for his grace and forgiveness when I treat him badly. Then, I had some much needed girl time with Kim last night. Shopping and Auntie Anne's pretzels (only for $1 because the high schooler working thought Kim was cute). What could be better?
"I guess everyone has bad days...even in Australia."
"Are you mad?"
"Yes!"
"Why are you mad?"
"Because I feel like it, okay?"
I wanted to laugh so bad when I said that, but something deep inside me forced me to scowl and grumble. Why was I acting like such a baby? Why was I acting like such a brat? The answer truly was that I just felt like being angry. I woke up too early with too little sleep, a tire on my bike was flat (and it had been going flat a lot recently), I had to ride Steven's bike to work, I didn't WANT to ride Steven's bike to work, I didn't have a rack on his bike on which to secure my purse, so it kept hitting me in the leg and falling off my shoulder, the bike kept switching gears on me when I didn't want it to....I was just mean. All of that stuff wasn't a big deal, but I forced myself to make it a big deal. I truly did want to laugh and shrug everything off, but my pride wouldn't let me. As my favorite childhood book would have proclaimed:
"It was a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day."
...But it actually wasn't all that terrible. It wasn't even all that horrible. After work, I walked out into the sunshine to find Chaz had ridden my bike to work and he had bought me a new tire. How I am spoiled. I am thankful for his grace and forgiveness when I treat him badly. Then, I had some much needed girl time with Kim last night. Shopping and Auntie Anne's pretzels (only for $1 because the high schooler working thought Kim was cute). What could be better?
"I guess everyone has bad days...even in Australia."
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
I Love My Bicycle...
I love the white paint, green and yellow John Deere written on the side, with green and yellow stripes. I love the white fenders accenting the skinny tires. I love the old, huge reflectors on the back and front. I love the large, worn leather seat that is hard as anything, but strangely comfortable. I love the girl-style of the bike (so I can wear skirts while riding...and of course I do!). I love the large handlebars that allow me to sit straight as I ride. I love the road-bike-like gear shift. I love the sweet, new brakes the Ames Bike Club oh-so-kindly put on my bike. I love the sweet, old-fashioned odometer/spedometer on the handlebars, I love the bike bar on the back which allows me to carry packages and purses without holding them. I love the amazing, loud, ringy-rusty bell on the right handlebar. I love the way the fenders squeak and the bike clicks as I ride it down the streets of Ames. I love the fact that this amazing, sweet, awesome, dream-bike of mine only cost $40!
Mostly, I love that Chaz bought this beloved bike for me because I did not have enough money...I still have to pay him back (I also love that he doesn't charge interest...hehe).
I love the white paint, green and yellow John Deere written on the side, with green and yellow stripes. I love the white fenders accenting the skinny tires. I love the old, huge reflectors on the back and front. I love the large, worn leather seat that is hard as anything, but strangely comfortable. I love the girl-style of the bike (so I can wear skirts while riding...and of course I do!). I love the large handlebars that allow me to sit straight as I ride. I love the road-bike-like gear shift. I love the sweet, new brakes the Ames Bike Club oh-so-kindly put on my bike. I love the sweet, old-fashioned odometer/spedometer on the handlebars, I love the bike bar on the back which allows me to carry packages and purses without holding them. I love the amazing, loud, ringy-rusty bell on the right handlebar. I love the way the fenders squeak and the bike clicks as I ride it down the streets of Ames. I love the fact that this amazing, sweet, awesome, dream-bike of mine only cost $40!
Mostly, I love that Chaz bought this beloved bike for me because I did not have enough money...I still have to pay him back (I also love that he doesn't charge interest...hehe).
Sunday, May 20, 2007
A definition of marriage and weddings
Steve and Chelsi's wedding was yesterday. Widely anticipated by myself, it came and went all too quickly. It was probably the most beautiful wedding I have ever been to. Was it because everything was meticulously planned down to the last iota of a detail? Was it because thousands and thousands of dollars had been spent by all involved? No and no. It was beautiful because it was simple, lovely, and all about the couple's love. It perfectly suited the two getting married.
It was a day-long celebration. At dawn, the couple got baptized together a few yards from where they would later be married. The rest of the day was spent eating, sleeping, and fellowshipping with the couple and others involved in the wedding. It was so nice to actually get to spend some time with the bride and groom. It was a gorgeous day, so exploring and playing games were all options. At six, all of the guests arrived to eat supper. The tables were beautifully decorated with fresh wildflowers the family had picked up earlier. The wildflowers were all from a garden and arranged by the family. At 7:45, it was announced that the wedding ceremony would be held outside. Then, the couple was married under a beautiful canopy decorated with vines, with the ground scattered with colorful rose petals. Chelsi looked absolutely gorgeous in a simple wedding dress her and her sisters had made. It was beautiful! Steve looked handsome in a light brown suit. The bridesmaids looked beautiful as well, in dresses they had all picked out. Brown was the only stipulation. The guys wore suits with brown ties of their choice. The couple served the guests communion, praise songs were sung, and they were announced just as sun was setting. After the ceremony, there was dessert and dancing, toasts and talking. It was delightful.
One of the best parts, however, was the message on love Josh, the pastor, shared. Marriage is often taken too lightly these days. It is often gone into too lightly and broken even easier. Weddings, while beautiful, can be commercial and plastic. Gorgeously planned and perfectly executed, but without feeling. Josh told us that sometimes people even change their vows from "as long as we both shall live" to "as long as we both shall love." However, God ordains marriage as a physical symbol of His relationship with us. The way a husband and wife are to love each other and be committed to each other is the way God feels about us. Josh said, "Isn't it nice to know that when times get rough, God doesn't commit to us only 'as long as we both shall love'?"
It was absolutely refreshing to see these two beloved people come together as one in such a simple and lovely way. They committed to each other to be together for life, and I know they will honor that commitment. They didn't need a fancy wedding to do it, either. They focused on their love as opposed to the decorations and look. And this is what made that wedding the most beautiful one I have ever been to.
Steve and Chelsi's wedding was yesterday. Widely anticipated by myself, it came and went all too quickly. It was probably the most beautiful wedding I have ever been to. Was it because everything was meticulously planned down to the last iota of a detail? Was it because thousands and thousands of dollars had been spent by all involved? No and no. It was beautiful because it was simple, lovely, and all about the couple's love. It perfectly suited the two getting married.
It was a day-long celebration. At dawn, the couple got baptized together a few yards from where they would later be married. The rest of the day was spent eating, sleeping, and fellowshipping with the couple and others involved in the wedding. It was so nice to actually get to spend some time with the bride and groom. It was a gorgeous day, so exploring and playing games were all options. At six, all of the guests arrived to eat supper. The tables were beautifully decorated with fresh wildflowers the family had picked up earlier. The wildflowers were all from a garden and arranged by the family. At 7:45, it was announced that the wedding ceremony would be held outside. Then, the couple was married under a beautiful canopy decorated with vines, with the ground scattered with colorful rose petals. Chelsi looked absolutely gorgeous in a simple wedding dress her and her sisters had made. It was beautiful! Steve looked handsome in a light brown suit. The bridesmaids looked beautiful as well, in dresses they had all picked out. Brown was the only stipulation. The guys wore suits with brown ties of their choice. The couple served the guests communion, praise songs were sung, and they were announced just as sun was setting. After the ceremony, there was dessert and dancing, toasts and talking. It was delightful.
One of the best parts, however, was the message on love Josh, the pastor, shared. Marriage is often taken too lightly these days. It is often gone into too lightly and broken even easier. Weddings, while beautiful, can be commercial and plastic. Gorgeously planned and perfectly executed, but without feeling. Josh told us that sometimes people even change their vows from "as long as we both shall live" to "as long as we both shall love." However, God ordains marriage as a physical symbol of His relationship with us. The way a husband and wife are to love each other and be committed to each other is the way God feels about us. Josh said, "Isn't it nice to know that when times get rough, God doesn't commit to us only 'as long as we both shall love'?"
It was absolutely refreshing to see these two beloved people come together as one in such a simple and lovely way. They committed to each other to be together for life, and I know they will honor that commitment. They didn't need a fancy wedding to do it, either. They focused on their love as opposed to the decorations and look. And this is what made that wedding the most beautiful one I have ever been to.
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
cranky worker
Working for the summer has left me exhausted. The work's not hard...it's actually fun. I love the CTLT family. It's just those early mornings that are really cramping my style. Oh well, I suppose I must get used to it for teaching. By 9, I'm cranky and ready for bed. It's 11, I'm gonna head to bed now. I'm getting unbearable to be around, so it must be time to go.
Oh, I went for a run tonight with Chaz. Yes, that's right. I went for a run. I hate running. Loathe it, in fact. I like him.
Working for the summer has left me exhausted. The work's not hard...it's actually fun. I love the CTLT family. It's just those early mornings that are really cramping my style. Oh well, I suppose I must get used to it for teaching. By 9, I'm cranky and ready for bed. It's 11, I'm gonna head to bed now. I'm getting unbearable to be around, so it must be time to go.
Oh, I went for a run tonight with Chaz. Yes, that's right. I went for a run. I hate running. Loathe it, in fact. I like him.
Monday, May 14, 2007
My Trip Home
mommy and daddy picking me up, driving sleepy, sleeping in, brothers jumping on me, grilling burgers, eating food, baby bunny, skinny Babe, crazy Ozzie, mischevious Leroy, dressing up, wedding, mommy/daughter time, shopping, tv watching, more sleeping, bloody noses, punches, bruises, brother beating, church going, brother teasing, radio singing, eating eating, grandma's jokes, money for Rwanda, apple pie, stories, laughter, "pathetic brushes with greatness," driving home, brother secrets, hugs and kisses, family love, driving back...missing them
mommy and daddy picking me up, driving sleepy, sleeping in, brothers jumping on me, grilling burgers, eating food, baby bunny, skinny Babe, crazy Ozzie, mischevious Leroy, dressing up, wedding, mommy/daughter time, shopping, tv watching, more sleeping, bloody noses, punches, bruises, brother beating, church going, brother teasing, radio singing, eating eating, grandma's jokes, money for Rwanda, apple pie, stories, laughter, "pathetic brushes with greatness," driving home, brother secrets, hugs and kisses, family love, driving back...missing them
Friday, May 11, 2007
Roomies
Kim's my new roommate. It's exciting! It's nice to come home and see her beauty in my living room. It's nice to decorate and girlify our apartment. Amy's slowly moving out, and that is sad, but it is time for my next stage in life. Well, by slowly I mean that she's preparing for marriage at the end of the month. *sigh* another one bites the dust...lucky girl.
I look over the roommates of my past. They've all only lasted a year (with the exception of my family....but that just goes without saying).
First there was Mikala—she was delightful. We were so different, but we got along so well. We watched ABC Family all day long, including many "Prince of Bel-Air" marathons. 8 AM to 12 AM full of Will Smith.
Then there was Allison—Dancing Fridays, "Worst Song Ever" times, singing, cuddle raping, etc. etc. All around good times. I now consider her one of my greatest friends. Our friendship made a large transition over the course of that year, and I am so thankful that we keep in touch and still enjoy each other's company.
This year I transitioned to an apartment and life with Amy—With opposite schedules, it made it hard to see each other. I'm a night owl and a sleeper-inner, while she's an early to bed, and early to riser. We still had good times, however. Chatting it up, girl-style, and preparing for her wedding. It's been an amazing first apartment experience.
And now....Kimberly—Who knows how long we'll be together? However long it is, I know it will be k-razy! Good times of laughing, chatting, decorating, and giggling are sure to ensue.
So yes, there are my history of roomies. There have been good times. I miss the past, but I am excited for the future. Who knows who my next roomie will be?
Kim's my new roommate. It's exciting! It's nice to come home and see her beauty in my living room. It's nice to decorate and girlify our apartment. Amy's slowly moving out, and that is sad, but it is time for my next stage in life. Well, by slowly I mean that she's preparing for marriage at the end of the month. *sigh* another one bites the dust...lucky girl.
I look over the roommates of my past. They've all only lasted a year (with the exception of my family....but that just goes without saying).
First there was Mikala—she was delightful. We were so different, but we got along so well. We watched ABC Family all day long, including many "Prince of Bel-Air" marathons. 8 AM to 12 AM full of Will Smith.
Then there was Allison—Dancing Fridays, "Worst Song Ever" times, singing, cuddle raping, etc. etc. All around good times. I now consider her one of my greatest friends. Our friendship made a large transition over the course of that year, and I am so thankful that we keep in touch and still enjoy each other's company.
This year I transitioned to an apartment and life with Amy—With opposite schedules, it made it hard to see each other. I'm a night owl and a sleeper-inner, while she's an early to bed, and early to riser. We still had good times, however. Chatting it up, girl-style, and preparing for her wedding. It's been an amazing first apartment experience.
And now....Kimberly—Who knows how long we'll be together? However long it is, I know it will be k-razy! Good times of laughing, chatting, decorating, and giggling are sure to ensue.
So yes, there are my history of roomies. There have been good times. I miss the past, but I am excited for the future. Who knows who my next roomie will be?
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Tuesday, May 08, 2007
Coming Through
He came through for me. As always. Before I even asked for it. He knew. But of course he knew...he knows everything about me. He knows more about me than I know about myself. It's crazy to think about but absolutely wonderful all at the same time. He knew what I needed, and he provided for me. All I had to do was take the time and listen. Then this morning, I met him again on my bike ride to work. Beautiful morning. I started singing to him. About the skies, and the early morning dew, and the trees, and the sun. I swerved my bike back and forth across the pavement and sang to the heavens. He always comes through for me. Even though I don't deserve it. I just need to take time for him.
(p.s. Yes, Steven, this is about Jesus.)
He came through for me. As always. Before I even asked for it. He knew. But of course he knew...he knows everything about me. He knows more about me than I know about myself. It's crazy to think about but absolutely wonderful all at the same time. He knew what I needed, and he provided for me. All I had to do was take the time and listen. Then this morning, I met him again on my bike ride to work. Beautiful morning. I started singing to him. About the skies, and the early morning dew, and the trees, and the sun. I swerved my bike back and forth across the pavement and sang to the heavens. He always comes through for me. Even though I don't deserve it. I just need to take time for him.
(p.s. Yes, Steven, this is about Jesus.)
Monday, May 07, 2007
Bad Mood
I've been cranky lately.
I've been moody. I've been downright depressed.
Maybe you didn't know that. Maybe you didn't even notice...except I've made it pretty obvious. That's why I've needed you around more. That's why I've been silent when you call me to say you're staying longer, you need more time, you're busy, tired. That's why I've shut my mouth and scowled when things haven't gone the way I wanted them to. It's why I've yelled and grumbled.
It's why I've tried hard to make special time for us.
Because I'm lonely. And I've needed you.
It's why I've dressed up, put makeup on, tried to smell good, cooked. Just to be around you. Just to have some special time with you after all of the stress of schoolwork is done.
Don't tell me we have all summer.
I know we have all summer.
But right now is when I need you. There will be a time soon when I will be fine with you not being around for a little while. Fine when you want to hang out with someone else. Fine when you have to sleep. I won't bother you with sighs and silence when you can't be around. I know I'm being selfish. I don't like it. But I've just...needed you.
That's why I've been cranky.
And that's why I need you to remind me of the only one who can never make me feel lonely. ever.
I've been cranky lately.
I've been moody. I've been downright depressed.
Maybe you didn't know that. Maybe you didn't even notice...except I've made it pretty obvious. That's why I've needed you around more. That's why I've been silent when you call me to say you're staying longer, you need more time, you're busy, tired. That's why I've shut my mouth and scowled when things haven't gone the way I wanted them to. It's why I've yelled and grumbled.
It's why I've tried hard to make special time for us.
Because I'm lonely. And I've needed you.
It's why I've dressed up, put makeup on, tried to smell good, cooked. Just to be around you. Just to have some special time with you after all of the stress of schoolwork is done.
Don't tell me we have all summer.
I know we have all summer.
But right now is when I need you. There will be a time soon when I will be fine with you not being around for a little while. Fine when you want to hang out with someone else. Fine when you have to sleep. I won't bother you with sighs and silence when you can't be around. I know I'm being selfish. I don't like it. But I've just...needed you.
That's why I've been cranky.
And that's why I need you to remind me of the only one who can never make me feel lonely. ever.
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
People trust me with scissors
I cut Steven's hair tonight.
Like....really cut it. He let me. Kim supervised. First Chaz trusted me with his head of hair, and now Steven with his beautiful, precious locks that he cares oh-so-much about.
...People should know better. I've never cut hair before. My bros and dad wouldn't even let me. Well...I might have buzzed Sam's hair once, and I've clipped cattle, but not cut, cut hair. But, I guess after two attempts, I'm getting better. I always start with a mistake and then gradually improve my cutting ability. But that mistake is what kills it. I cut the side of Steven's hair grossly short and straight. It's because he psyched me out. I couldn't fix it. I wanted to just continue the cut and make his hair look like a monk's, but he wouldn't let me. I also wanted to do a bowl cut, but he wouldn't let me do that, either. Instead, I resigned to butchering his hair.
But now he just told me that it might actually be one of the better haircuts that he's gotten. I feel a little better.
I cut Steven's hair tonight.
Like....really cut it. He let me. Kim supervised. First Chaz trusted me with his head of hair, and now Steven with his beautiful, precious locks that he cares oh-so-much about.
...People should know better. I've never cut hair before. My bros and dad wouldn't even let me. Well...I might have buzzed Sam's hair once, and I've clipped cattle, but not cut, cut hair. But, I guess after two attempts, I'm getting better. I always start with a mistake and then gradually improve my cutting ability. But that mistake is what kills it. I cut the side of Steven's hair grossly short and straight. It's because he psyched me out. I couldn't fix it. I wanted to just continue the cut and make his hair look like a monk's, but he wouldn't let me. I also wanted to do a bowl cut, but he wouldn't let me do that, either. Instead, I resigned to butchering his hair.
But now he just told me that it might actually be one of the better haircuts that he's gotten. I feel a little better.
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
You like doing that??
Today has been the longest day ever, but at the same time, it's flown by. I was up until 5 this morning trying to finish my multigenre research paper on the genocide in Rwanda. Goodness. Talk about looooong hours of work. However, I am tremendously pleased with the final product. After Chaz slapped a big, red handprint on the front of the book, and I painted my name and the title of my piece, I picked it up, examined the cover, and declared, "I think this is the best thing I've ever done." (strictly in terms of schoolwork).
...And I think it is. Despite the fact that it has caused me massive amounts of sleep deprivation over the past few months (late night finishing daily writing, late night learning journaling Sunday, late night finishing the thing last night), it has truly been a joy. It is one of the best projects I have ever done. I've had fun. I've learned. I've researched and written more than any other paper I've done. I've stretched my limit. I enjoyed learning and writing and putting together the final product. I'm proud of my work. And I worked hard in the process.
And that, my friends, is what education should be.
Today has been the longest day ever, but at the same time, it's flown by. I was up until 5 this morning trying to finish my multigenre research paper on the genocide in Rwanda. Goodness. Talk about looooong hours of work. However, I am tremendously pleased with the final product. After Chaz slapped a big, red handprint on the front of the book, and I painted my name and the title of my piece, I picked it up, examined the cover, and declared, "I think this is the best thing I've ever done." (strictly in terms of schoolwork).
...And I think it is. Despite the fact that it has caused me massive amounts of sleep deprivation over the past few months (late night finishing daily writing, late night learning journaling Sunday, late night finishing the thing last night), it has truly been a joy. It is one of the best projects I have ever done. I've had fun. I've learned. I've researched and written more than any other paper I've done. I've stretched my limit. I enjoyed learning and writing and putting together the final product. I'm proud of my work. And I worked hard in the process.
And that, my friends, is what education should be.
Thursday, April 12, 2007
Blasé
He's out at "Guys Night." I'm supposed to be doing homework. But I'm failing miserably, as usual. Did horrible on a test today. Tons to do for next week. But I'm blogging, and checking things on the internet, and reading "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix," and doing dishes, and anything else that can preoccupy me from doing the work that looms over me. As Rachel Vickers' Music History class does, so does my homework loom loom loom. haha. That girl makes me laugh.
Drove to CF yesterday. Wanted to see Kel, but I didn't. Chaz bought a car. Crazy. My little man's all grown up! Art for Africa this weekend...should be an amazing time.
Eh, who am I kidding? I'm not getting anything done tonight...I'm going to bed.
He's out at "Guys Night." I'm supposed to be doing homework. But I'm failing miserably, as usual. Did horrible on a test today. Tons to do for next week. But I'm blogging, and checking things on the internet, and reading "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix," and doing dishes, and anything else that can preoccupy me from doing the work that looms over me. As Rachel Vickers' Music History class does, so does my homework loom loom loom. haha. That girl makes me laugh.
Drove to CF yesterday. Wanted to see Kel, but I didn't. Chaz bought a car. Crazy. My little man's all grown up! Art for Africa this weekend...should be an amazing time.
Eh, who am I kidding? I'm not getting anything done tonight...I'm going to bed.
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