Thursday, September 28, 2006
Pondering the tough questions
House cleaning takes many forms at my home. Some days I use it as a time to contemplate and pray. Other times, I turn up the music and dance my way through it - this is not my boys' favorite thing (some of my music or any of my dancing). And other times, like today, my mind wanders and I ponder the important things in life.........if someone else cleans your house, do they tell you that your bathtub needs recaulked or that the shower head in your kids' shower is not really working properly?
Seriously, think about it. My boys are not going to say, "Hey Mom, the shower isn't putting out much water." No, they would really not notice until the silly thing completely quit working! So, would a housekeeper leave me a note, or would they just call a handyman to fix whatever needs fixin'? Maybe the housekeeper is sleeping with the handyman......
I amuse myself with little things like this to make myself feel better about scrubbing all surfaces of my own house. How would I possibly know what needed attention if I did not personally take care of it????
Truthfully, I would be willing to take that risk!
simple faith
House cleaning takes many forms at my home. Some days I use it as a time to contemplate and pray. Other times, I turn up the music and dance my way through it - this is not my boys' favorite thing (some of my music or any of my dancing). And other times, like today, my mind wanders and I ponder the important things in life.........if someone else cleans your house, do they tell you that your bathtub needs recaulked or that the shower head in your kids' shower is not really working properly?
Seriously, think about it. My boys are not going to say, "Hey Mom, the shower isn't putting out much water." No, they would really not notice until the silly thing completely quit working! So, would a housekeeper leave me a note, or would they just call a handyman to fix whatever needs fixin'? Maybe the housekeeper is sleeping with the handyman......
I amuse myself with little things like this to make myself feel better about scrubbing all surfaces of my own house. How would I possibly know what needed attention if I did not personally take care of it????
Truthfully, I would be willing to take that risk!
simple faith
Labels: Musings
Monday, September 25, 2006
Visions of a Pumpkin Farm
During lunch with friends yesterday, the conversation turned to their young adult children and a high schooler beginning to seek his future. We commented on the value of a college education and the doors it opens - even if you do not go in to your "education of choice field". We discussed Steve Irwin (crocodile guy) and how cool it was to see someone living out their passion. It seems that he always knew what he wanted to do when he grew up and was blessed to be able to live that out. Very few people accomplish that in their lifetime!
Almost all of us confessed that we did not have that in our lives - a one driving passion that defined what occupation we would find ourselves doing. At almost 40 and above, we were still batting around the question of "What do I want to be when I grow up?" Don't get me wrong - we all enjoy (most days) our chosen occupations. But waking up and immediately thinking, "I can't wait to begin my day" is not something that occurs often. I am sure most people ponder this on occasion.
Today I saw a magazine cover of a pumpkin farm. Red barn in the background, all sorts of pumpkins lined up to be sold and mums on a flatbed trailer. There are days I dream of being a pumpkin farmer. I love pumpkins and fall. I envision myself living a big, old, white farm house with a wrap-around porch. It would be a "city person" farm. One that exists for the purpose of personal enjoyment rather than monetary gain. Along with our pumpkin patch, we would have a vegetable garden, a sunflower patch and an entire small field of wildflowers. A menagerie of fun animals including setting hens, those really cool looking show roosters, peacocks, ducks, a donkey, and miniature cattle would live on our farm. I would have a Martha Stewart type knowledge of bee keeping, gardening, flowers, trees, etc. My days would be spent in simple pleasures at a slow pace. The joys of such an existence!
But alas, I know the reality of farm life - whether a "city person" one or a real one. It is hard work! I know my visions would soon fade and the reality of it all would not be my passion.
I think I will hold on to the vision anyway.......
simple faith
During lunch with friends yesterday, the conversation turned to their young adult children and a high schooler beginning to seek his future. We commented on the value of a college education and the doors it opens - even if you do not go in to your "education of choice field". We discussed Steve Irwin (crocodile guy) and how cool it was to see someone living out their passion. It seems that he always knew what he wanted to do when he grew up and was blessed to be able to live that out. Very few people accomplish that in their lifetime!
Almost all of us confessed that we did not have that in our lives - a one driving passion that defined what occupation we would find ourselves doing. At almost 40 and above, we were still batting around the question of "What do I want to be when I grow up?" Don't get me wrong - we all enjoy (most days) our chosen occupations. But waking up and immediately thinking, "I can't wait to begin my day" is not something that occurs often. I am sure most people ponder this on occasion.
Today I saw a magazine cover of a pumpkin farm. Red barn in the background, all sorts of pumpkins lined up to be sold and mums on a flatbed trailer. There are days I dream of being a pumpkin farmer. I love pumpkins and fall. I envision myself living a big, old, white farm house with a wrap-around porch. It would be a "city person" farm. One that exists for the purpose of personal enjoyment rather than monetary gain. Along with our pumpkin patch, we would have a vegetable garden, a sunflower patch and an entire small field of wildflowers. A menagerie of fun animals including setting hens, those really cool looking show roosters, peacocks, ducks, a donkey, and miniature cattle would live on our farm. I would have a Martha Stewart type knowledge of bee keeping, gardening, flowers, trees, etc. My days would be spent in simple pleasures at a slow pace. The joys of such an existence!
But alas, I know the reality of farm life - whether a "city person" one or a real one. It is hard work! I know my visions would soon fade and the reality of it all would not be my passion.
I think I will hold on to the vision anyway.......
simple faith
Labels: Pumpkins
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
A "Gold"en Day
I was in hypergold overdrive.
I vented to another gold friend - she understands my pain. Someone had dropped the ball on a project and I, being gold, had not only picked up the ball - I chose to run with it. I could have skillfully passed it off, but no - I am diligent and committed. She was running with her own ball - actually several. We golds tend to do this.
I phoned a friend to help me correct a perceived problem. She was sympathetic, to a point. She saw the folly of my problem and finally proclaimed, "You are being very gold about this." (Of course she is screaming orange - words like spontaneous and flexible describe her!) I relented, knowing she was right. I took her advice to "let it go."
Do you know what color you are? No, not what season. That was the '80s. I am looking for your personality color.
If you aren't familiar with this concept, it is fairly simple. You are given a couple of tests that determine if you are an introvert or an extrovert and then what your dominant and secondary personality colors are.
Things like this greatly interest me. I know most of my friends' personality colors and it is of great help in understanding them and what makes them tick. Just another look in to knowing someone better. Consequently, they also know me better.
I am an introverted gold/blue. To quote the profile my dominant personality is: "...dutiful and responsible to others. I cherish my home and family, and place priority on taking care of them. I am constantly striving to provide security and stability for those in my life." Key words include, but are not limited to: committed, loyal, accountable, dependable, and organized. My secondary personality: "seek(s) authenticity, peace, harmony, and balance in life."
These explanations focus on the positive in our personalities. But I am sure you can see that negatives also arise from our make-up. Hypergoldness happens to me when I am stressed and overwhelmed with my "to do" list. Things feel out of control, so I move in to super control mode. Thankfully, these days, those moments are not too many. God has blessed me with an assortment of friends who help direct me to the positive.
Most days, I seek my balanced life.
simple faith
I was in hypergold overdrive.
I vented to another gold friend - she understands my pain. Someone had dropped the ball on a project and I, being gold, had not only picked up the ball - I chose to run with it. I could have skillfully passed it off, but no - I am diligent and committed. She was running with her own ball - actually several. We golds tend to do this.
I phoned a friend to help me correct a perceived problem. She was sympathetic, to a point. She saw the folly of my problem and finally proclaimed, "You are being very gold about this." (Of course she is screaming orange - words like spontaneous and flexible describe her!) I relented, knowing she was right. I took her advice to "let it go."
Do you know what color you are? No, not what season. That was the '80s. I am looking for your personality color.
If you aren't familiar with this concept, it is fairly simple. You are given a couple of tests that determine if you are an introvert or an extrovert and then what your dominant and secondary personality colors are.
Things like this greatly interest me. I know most of my friends' personality colors and it is of great help in understanding them and what makes them tick. Just another look in to knowing someone better. Consequently, they also know me better.
I am an introverted gold/blue. To quote the profile my dominant personality is: "...dutiful and responsible to others. I cherish my home and family, and place priority on taking care of them. I am constantly striving to provide security and stability for those in my life." Key words include, but are not limited to: committed, loyal, accountable, dependable, and organized. My secondary personality: "seek(s) authenticity, peace, harmony, and balance in life."
These explanations focus on the positive in our personalities. But I am sure you can see that negatives also arise from our make-up. Hypergoldness happens to me when I am stressed and overwhelmed with my "to do" list. Things feel out of control, so I move in to super control mode. Thankfully, these days, those moments are not too many. God has blessed me with an assortment of friends who help direct me to the positive.
Most days, I seek my balanced life.
simple faith
Monday, September 18, 2006
Just the Facts, Ma'am
The weekend was a whirlwind of activity - literally as the wind swept down the plains of my panhandle state!
Just a few highlights to share.
Friday Morning Double Feature
Our neighborhood grade school is named after President William Howard Taft. Every year we declare a "William Howard Taft Day" and allow our kids to dress up as our largest President or his wife. For the last time, I tied a pillow to one of my boys and dressed him with his Dad's clothes to parade across the stage. Interesting fact: Taft actually got stuck in the tub at the White House and it took 8 men to get him out. They installed a special tub for him!
I was also treated (unexpectedly) to our 4th grades' tribute to the Cherokee Strip Land Run. Happening in September 1893, it was billed as "the greatest race in history" and helped to settle our part of the panhandle state. I am officially on my last tour of grade school programs - so far it does not make me sad. Check with me in the spring!
Friday Night Movie
As a family we watched the Chronicles of Narnia's The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. It was a great movie. Of course, I always recommend that you read the book before seeing the movie. As a bonus read The Magician's Nephew which is actually the first book in the series. It gives you an even better understanding of the movie!
Saturday in God's Country
I know many of you may think you live in God's Country, but you are mistaken. Really, check out the 23rd Psalm - my alma mater is located in God's Country. We spent a very hot and windy day tailgating. My husband's office does this at all home games. I will only write more about tailgating when I have time to do it justice. My beloved Cowboys won!
I did watch the end of the OU game on our satellite TV set-up. I must tell all my Sooner friends that you did get some crummy calls - I am sorry.
Sunday in the State Capital City
We went our State Capital City to watch The Rock & The Rabbi. A wonderful production of music and storytelling. If you have an opportunity to see this show, take advantage of it. It is in our panhandle state at several venues this month.
Sunday Night Race
One of my favorite shows made its season debut Sunday night - The Amazing Race. We all watch this show and analyze the contestants. It is fascinating to watch the dynamics of the teams and see individuals overcome personal issues and challenges. I would hate to put myself under such a spotlight in such stressful situations. Although I do think it would be an amazing adventure!
Thankfully, not all weekends are this busy! This is not a pace that suites my family. We tend to prefer our journey much slower......
simple faith
The weekend was a whirlwind of activity - literally as the wind swept down the plains of my panhandle state!
Just a few highlights to share.
Friday Morning Double Feature
Our neighborhood grade school is named after President William Howard Taft. Every year we declare a "William Howard Taft Day" and allow our kids to dress up as our largest President or his wife. For the last time, I tied a pillow to one of my boys and dressed him with his Dad's clothes to parade across the stage. Interesting fact: Taft actually got stuck in the tub at the White House and it took 8 men to get him out. They installed a special tub for him!
I was also treated (unexpectedly) to our 4th grades' tribute to the Cherokee Strip Land Run. Happening in September 1893, it was billed as "the greatest race in history" and helped to settle our part of the panhandle state. I am officially on my last tour of grade school programs - so far it does not make me sad. Check with me in the spring!
Friday Night Movie
As a family we watched the Chronicles of Narnia's The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. It was a great movie. Of course, I always recommend that you read the book before seeing the movie. As a bonus read The Magician's Nephew which is actually the first book in the series. It gives you an even better understanding of the movie!
Saturday in God's Country
I know many of you may think you live in God's Country, but you are mistaken. Really, check out the 23rd Psalm - my alma mater is located in God's Country. We spent a very hot and windy day tailgating. My husband's office does this at all home games. I will only write more about tailgating when I have time to do it justice. My beloved Cowboys won!
I did watch the end of the OU game on our satellite TV set-up. I must tell all my Sooner friends that you did get some crummy calls - I am sorry.
Sunday in the State Capital City
We went our State Capital City to watch The Rock & The Rabbi. A wonderful production of music and storytelling. If you have an opportunity to see this show, take advantage of it. It is in our panhandle state at several venues this month.
Sunday Night Race
One of my favorite shows made its season debut Sunday night - The Amazing Race. We all watch this show and analyze the contestants. It is fascinating to watch the dynamics of the teams and see individuals overcome personal issues and challenges. I would hate to put myself under such a spotlight in such stressful situations. Although I do think it would be an amazing adventure!
Thankfully, not all weekends are this busy! This is not a pace that suites my family. We tend to prefer our journey much slower......
simple faith
Labels: fun times
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
It was a beautiful day....
It was a beautiful day - the weather was wonderful, everyone left the house smoothly, I made it to yoga for the first time in months. The substitute instructor did not show, but I declared it a victory anyway. I had made the effort, that counted for something. I was feeling good! I took care of a couple of jobs and checked myself in the mirror. Hair decent, make-up decent......I think I will go have my passport picture taken.
Hit the pause button.
I am not that big on having my picture taken. I don't mind too much if I am in the prescence of a really good professional photographer. You know, the ones who care about backgrounds, lighting, soft focus, and digital touch-ups. I have only been fortunate enough to have met 3 of these "artists" in my life. None of them have worked at an official document photo site.
Journey with me to September of last year.......
My family is traveling to San Diego. We have a ridiculously early flight out. We make it to the airport and I hand over my driver's license for identification. It is expired. Not by much, only a few days - but airport security seems not to care.
I am pulled to the side for the public wanding. Without thinking I turn to hand my purse to my husband. Airport security really does not like this. I have earned myself a trip down the hallway to the "all but strip search" room.
They go through everything. I am given a "My aren't you organized!" compliment by one of the many security people I visit with. I am finally allowed to join my husband and boys who are waiting somewhat patiently.
One of them inquires, "Didn't you know that your driver's license was expired?" Well yes, I did. But you have a 30 day grace period to renew it. I offer what is a completely logical explanation of, "Every time I thought about it, I was not having a good hair day." I could tell by the look on their faces that none of them understood my dilemma - you have to remember that I live in a frat house!
Hit the play button.
I travel to the store where I have my photos developed. I hope the person at the counter is not the unfriendly one. One last check in the mirror - sunglass marks! I knew I should not have put them on......oh well.
Entering the store I am relieved to see that it is not the unfriendly girl. This girl is not overly friendly, but I at least think she does not dislike me. The process begins. She pulls down a white screen. (I was hoping the background would be blue, but okay.) She pulls out a little digital camera and says, "Are you ready?" I smile. She clicks, checks the picture and wants to take another one. Repeat the process.
After a few minutes, I return to the counter. She hands me the photos tucked in to a little blue card holder. I open the card.......
Inside my head: "Holy canolli! I thought I was having a decent hair day. The lighting is awful - look at all those shadows on my face. I think she used the second picture and I knew my smile was a bit weird. Surely I do not look that old!"
To the picture girl: "That's great. Thank you."
She rings me out, being nicer to me than normal. I think she takes some sadistic pleasure in taking horrible passport photos!!!
Oh well, at least the weather was lovely.
Simple Faith
It was a beautiful day - the weather was wonderful, everyone left the house smoothly, I made it to yoga for the first time in months. The substitute instructor did not show, but I declared it a victory anyway. I had made the effort, that counted for something. I was feeling good! I took care of a couple of jobs and checked myself in the mirror. Hair decent, make-up decent......I think I will go have my passport picture taken.
Hit the pause button.
I am not that big on having my picture taken. I don't mind too much if I am in the prescence of a really good professional photographer. You know, the ones who care about backgrounds, lighting, soft focus, and digital touch-ups. I have only been fortunate enough to have met 3 of these "artists" in my life. None of them have worked at an official document photo site.
Journey with me to September of last year.......
My family is traveling to San Diego. We have a ridiculously early flight out. We make it to the airport and I hand over my driver's license for identification. It is expired. Not by much, only a few days - but airport security seems not to care.
I am pulled to the side for the public wanding. Without thinking I turn to hand my purse to my husband. Airport security really does not like this. I have earned myself a trip down the hallway to the "all but strip search" room.
They go through everything. I am given a "My aren't you organized!" compliment by one of the many security people I visit with. I am finally allowed to join my husband and boys who are waiting somewhat patiently.
One of them inquires, "Didn't you know that your driver's license was expired?" Well yes, I did. But you have a 30 day grace period to renew it. I offer what is a completely logical explanation of, "Every time I thought about it, I was not having a good hair day." I could tell by the look on their faces that none of them understood my dilemma - you have to remember that I live in a frat house!
Hit the play button.
I travel to the store where I have my photos developed. I hope the person at the counter is not the unfriendly one. One last check in the mirror - sunglass marks! I knew I should not have put them on......oh well.
Entering the store I am relieved to see that it is not the unfriendly girl. This girl is not overly friendly, but I at least think she does not dislike me. The process begins. She pulls down a white screen. (I was hoping the background would be blue, but okay.) She pulls out a little digital camera and says, "Are you ready?" I smile. She clicks, checks the picture and wants to take another one. Repeat the process.
After a few minutes, I return to the counter. She hands me the photos tucked in to a little blue card holder. I open the card.......
Inside my head: "Holy canolli! I thought I was having a decent hair day. The lighting is awful - look at all those shadows on my face. I think she used the second picture and I knew my smile was a bit weird. Surely I do not look that old!"
To the picture girl: "That's great. Thank you."
She rings me out, being nicer to me than normal. I think she takes some sadistic pleasure in taking horrible passport photos!!!
Oh well, at least the weather was lovely.
Simple Faith
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Confessions of a Flag Lover
Hi. My name is Simple Faith and I love the American Flag.
Not "love - love" silly, as a grade schooler might say. But, you know, the type of love that respects, honors, and protects. The type of love that defines priorities in my life.
This love affair started as a child. My tiny town in the southwest corner of my panhandle state always had a huge (for us) 4th of July celebration. I grew up waving a flag while riding a bicycle or on a float in the parade.
But the true moment of falling completely in love happened while I was in high school. A veteran came and spoke to us in a school assembly one day. He was an older gentleman, missing an arm, and having an air about him of orneriness. He spoke of serving in the war (I don't remember which one) and of what the flag meant to him. He spoke of leading men to battle and of losing 50 men under his charge. When he looked at the flag, that is what he saw. The fifty stars symbolized the loss of life he had personally experienced. I was never able to see the flag the same again.
I became the type of girl who gets goose bumps when I see it raised and who stands at attention when the "Star Spangled Banner" is played. I became the type of girl whose heart aches when I see it flying at half staff, knowing that as a nation, we are in mourning.
I am the type of girl who flies my flag on official holidays (I even keep a listing of those days posted). I am the type of girl who sometimes flies my flag just because it seems like a wonderful day to do so. I am the type of girl who disposes of my worn flags properly.
I do not like to see the flag improperly used on clothing. I do not like to see faded or worn flags flown. And I do not like to see the flag disrespected or burned in protest.
On occasion, I still see the fifty stars and remember the veteran and his story. Sometimes the flag brings to rememberance the past and the victory and sacrifice of our nation. Other times the flag brings to rememberance courage, honor, discipline, and devotion. And there are even times as I see it flutter in the wind that I think of the constant winds of change that blow around us and the stability the flag represents in my life.
I hope my love affair with the American flag will last a lifetime!
Simple Faith
Hi. My name is Simple Faith and I love the American Flag.
Not "love - love" silly, as a grade schooler might say. But, you know, the type of love that respects, honors, and protects. The type of love that defines priorities in my life.
This love affair started as a child. My tiny town in the southwest corner of my panhandle state always had a huge (for us) 4th of July celebration. I grew up waving a flag while riding a bicycle or on a float in the parade.
But the true moment of falling completely in love happened while I was in high school. A veteran came and spoke to us in a school assembly one day. He was an older gentleman, missing an arm, and having an air about him of orneriness. He spoke of serving in the war (I don't remember which one) and of what the flag meant to him. He spoke of leading men to battle and of losing 50 men under his charge. When he looked at the flag, that is what he saw. The fifty stars symbolized the loss of life he had personally experienced. I was never able to see the flag the same again.
I became the type of girl who gets goose bumps when I see it raised and who stands at attention when the "Star Spangled Banner" is played. I became the type of girl whose heart aches when I see it flying at half staff, knowing that as a nation, we are in mourning.
I am the type of girl who flies my flag on official holidays (I even keep a listing of those days posted). I am the type of girl who sometimes flies my flag just because it seems like a wonderful day to do so. I am the type of girl who disposes of my worn flags properly.
I do not like to see the flag improperly used on clothing. I do not like to see faded or worn flags flown. And I do not like to see the flag disrespected or burned in protest.
On occasion, I still see the fifty stars and remember the veteran and his story. Sometimes the flag brings to rememberance the past and the victory and sacrifice of our nation. Other times the flag brings to rememberance courage, honor, discipline, and devotion. And there are even times as I see it flutter in the wind that I think of the constant winds of change that blow around us and the stability the flag represents in my life.
I hope my love affair with the American flag will last a lifetime!
Simple Faith
Labels: Life
Saturday, September 09, 2006
Salt Lake City, Utah
I spent a few days away from my small city traveling with my husband on a business trip. I accompanied him to Salt Lake City to a meeting at the Grand America.
We have flown in and out of SLC a few times and I have always thought the landing and take-off over the Great Salt Lake were beautiful. This time was a bit disappointing - I am not sure, but they must be having awfully dry weather. The Lake was not the brilliant magenta I have seen it and it was much murkier, not reflecting the sky like before. But that was one of the few disappointing things on the trip.
The Grand America is truly that - GRAND! It was built as part of the Olympic improvements when SLC hosted the 2000 games. Part of the fun of traveling is on occasion getting to stay in an extravagant hotel. I won't gush on too much about it - you might get the impression that I am a hotel snob. (I sleep in my share of tents when camping and cheap motels when traveling with ball teams, for those of you who don't know me.)
Downtown SLC was fun and eclectic. Beautiful architecture, pretty landscaping, and an interesting mix of Mormonism, Christianity, New Age, and Native Americanism. Lots of art galleries, shopping and restaurants to venture amongst.
Interesting highlights:
* A sign in a men's suit store that advertised "Complete Missionary Uniforms Available Here."
You don't see that everywhere!
* A Brazilian street musician - the music was beautiful and very few people were appreciating it.
* Lunch at a Brazilian restaurant that would bring all sorts of skewered meat to your table for you to try. A little scary, a little yummy......no, the restaurant was no where near the street musician.
* Dinner at a lovely little Italian Restaurant whose owner was constantly roaming about greeting and visiting with his guest. It was obvious that he knew each of his regular customers and greeted them warmly and hoped to make his new guest feel welcomed also. The fact that he looked like Doc from the "Back to the Future" movies was just a fun bonus!
Things I will do next time:
* Roam through Temple Square - ran out of time.
* Go watch the Tabernacle Choir practice - Thursday evenings and it is open to the public. My husband has been and says it is amazing!
* I will remember to not wear a black skirt and a white sweater set while in town. Someone on the trolley struck up a conversation with us (our accents gave us away - go figure) and asked us if we were Mormon.....he wasn't either. Obviously he did not see my cute black and white driving mocs that did not fit the dress code.
Life is always an adventure - embrace it!!!
Simple Faith
I spent a few days away from my small city traveling with my husband on a business trip. I accompanied him to Salt Lake City to a meeting at the Grand America.
We have flown in and out of SLC a few times and I have always thought the landing and take-off over the Great Salt Lake were beautiful. This time was a bit disappointing - I am not sure, but they must be having awfully dry weather. The Lake was not the brilliant magenta I have seen it and it was much murkier, not reflecting the sky like before. But that was one of the few disappointing things on the trip.
The Grand America is truly that - GRAND! It was built as part of the Olympic improvements when SLC hosted the 2000 games. Part of the fun of traveling is on occasion getting to stay in an extravagant hotel. I won't gush on too much about it - you might get the impression that I am a hotel snob. (I sleep in my share of tents when camping and cheap motels when traveling with ball teams, for those of you who don't know me.)
Downtown SLC was fun and eclectic. Beautiful architecture, pretty landscaping, and an interesting mix of Mormonism, Christianity, New Age, and Native Americanism. Lots of art galleries, shopping and restaurants to venture amongst.
Interesting highlights:
* A sign in a men's suit store that advertised "Complete Missionary Uniforms Available Here."
You don't see that everywhere!
* A Brazilian street musician - the music was beautiful and very few people were appreciating it.
* Lunch at a Brazilian restaurant that would bring all sorts of skewered meat to your table for you to try. A little scary, a little yummy......no, the restaurant was no where near the street musician.
* Dinner at a lovely little Italian Restaurant whose owner was constantly roaming about greeting and visiting with his guest. It was obvious that he knew each of his regular customers and greeted them warmly and hoped to make his new guest feel welcomed also. The fact that he looked like Doc from the "Back to the Future" movies was just a fun bonus!
Things I will do next time:
* Roam through Temple Square - ran out of time.
* Go watch the Tabernacle Choir practice - Thursday evenings and it is open to the public. My husband has been and says it is amazing!
* I will remember to not wear a black skirt and a white sweater set while in town. Someone on the trolley struck up a conversation with us (our accents gave us away - go figure) and asked us if we were Mormon.....he wasn't either. Obviously he did not see my cute black and white driving mocs that did not fit the dress code.
Life is always an adventure - embrace it!!!
Simple Faith
Labels: Travel
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Grown Up Girls Only!
Warning - if you are male, under 25, or freakishly thin, you will not relate to this post!!!
I bought my first body shaping undergarment today. I share this for two reasons. First, it is a milestone of sorts for a girl. Kind of like your first bra. It signifies a new stage in your life (whether you want to admit you are there or not!).
Secondly, I share this because it was pricey and it makes me mad that no one will see it to appreciate it. I am just vain enough that when I get something new and fabulous I want my friends to comment on it.
For practicality purposes, it does achieve what I was hoping it would. Although, I think I will have to also invest in one that comes up the rib cage.
There are just some things about "growing up" that I do not care for!
simple faith
Warning - if you are male, under 25, or freakishly thin, you will not relate to this post!!!
I bought my first body shaping undergarment today. I share this for two reasons. First, it is a milestone of sorts for a girl. Kind of like your first bra. It signifies a new stage in your life (whether you want to admit you are there or not!).
Secondly, I share this because it was pricey and it makes me mad that no one will see it to appreciate it. I am just vain enough that when I get something new and fabulous I want my friends to comment on it.
For practicality purposes, it does achieve what I was hoping it would. Although, I think I will have to also invest in one that comes up the rib cage.
There are just some things about "growing up" that I do not care for!
simple faith
Labels: Life
Monday, September 04, 2006
Frat House
I live in a house with my husband, two boys, and a male cat. The friends of my boys who frequent my house most often are male. By my own sense of fair play, you would think God had prepared me for this role by having me grow up around a male dominated family. That is not so!
I had no male cousins my age and no brothers. My world was full of strong women and not a lot of male interaction. My dad and my granddads were around, but not really a part of our social structure.
And yet, I find myself living in a frat house. Go figure.
Mostly I love it. My personality and parenting style most definitely fits boys. Although there are those occasional moments that I am completely at a loss. Football pants bring those moments.
When my youngest son decided to first play football, I went and purchased him a pair of football pants. They were not what he wanted. We returned to the store and tried again. These did not work either. I ventured to the store, and tried again - only with the same results. I was not prepared for such a complex problem. How could this be such an issue???
In one of my not so finest moments, I went to my husband's office. I encountered him and an unfortunate bystander in the hallway. Tossing the pants to him I briefly explained my problem ending with a statement that went something like, "I understand leotards. I understand tights. I do not understand football pants. You take care of it!"
Well, my husband came through with his usual flying colors - rescuing his damsel in distress. And I have proven capable of the task of buying football pants in subsequent years.
You know, not every girl is lucky enough to live in a frat house!!!
simple faith
I live in a house with my husband, two boys, and a male cat. The friends of my boys who frequent my house most often are male. By my own sense of fair play, you would think God had prepared me for this role by having me grow up around a male dominated family. That is not so!
I had no male cousins my age and no brothers. My world was full of strong women and not a lot of male interaction. My dad and my granddads were around, but not really a part of our social structure.
And yet, I find myself living in a frat house. Go figure.
Mostly I love it. My personality and parenting style most definitely fits boys. Although there are those occasional moments that I am completely at a loss. Football pants bring those moments.
When my youngest son decided to first play football, I went and purchased him a pair of football pants. They were not what he wanted. We returned to the store and tried again. These did not work either. I ventured to the store, and tried again - only with the same results. I was not prepared for such a complex problem. How could this be such an issue???
In one of my not so finest moments, I went to my husband's office. I encountered him and an unfortunate bystander in the hallway. Tossing the pants to him I briefly explained my problem ending with a statement that went something like, "I understand leotards. I understand tights. I do not understand football pants. You take care of it!"
Well, my husband came through with his usual flying colors - rescuing his damsel in distress. And I have proven capable of the task of buying football pants in subsequent years.
You know, not every girl is lucky enough to live in a frat house!!!
simple faith
Sunday, September 03, 2006
Tapestry Ponderings
My life is a tapestry that is rich with colors and textures all interwoven from my relationships with friends and family. Some relationships bring love, joy, laughter, wisdom, and humor. Some relationships, well they don't necessarily bring those things, but I wouldn't trade them. They add texture to my tapestry.
Today I am just thankful for the diversity of family and friends.
simple faith
My life is a tapestry that is rich with colors and textures all interwoven from my relationships with friends and family. Some relationships bring love, joy, laughter, wisdom, and humor. Some relationships, well they don't necessarily bring those things, but I wouldn't trade them. They add texture to my tapestry.
Today I am just thankful for the diversity of family and friends.
simple faith
Labels: Ponderings
