So, here's the latest..
I went to see Ryan yesterday, and he is like a new man. He was sitting up in bed and eating mountains of hospital food. They still have no idea what bug has invaded his body, but they have been counter-attacking with antibiotic warfare. It's working.
He is still sick, but definitely has turned a corner. They say that he could have died without treatment.
What a time to contemplate our own mortality, and all that.
Ryan was totally healthy on Saturday, and standing at death's very door that night. How mindful that makes me of the certainty that one day I shall stand before my Maker. What if Ryan had faced Him this week?
Death is surprising and unexpected.
I went to McDonalds the day my sister died. It seems like a flippant thing to have ordered burgers and McNuggets when she was standing in the Presence of the Most High. It was surreal at the time. We had to get some food, and all those smiling teenagers flipping french fries had no idea that my world had changed forever. They told me to "have a nice day" as I gave them my money. And then we planned her funeral.
Life is surprising and unexpected.
You and I do not know what today will bring. Moments of serendipity, or sudden illness? God knows.
Hmm...Didn't Solomon say that there is more wisdom to be found in the consideration of death than at the Par-tay?
Oh, dear. Deep thoughts, indeed!
Thursday, August 31, 2006
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Brain-deficient Dr.s and my Diva Complex
The latest on Ryan...
Don't mind the raging fever or the excruciating pain, or the fact that he's in the hospital. They still have no idea what's wrong with him. You'd think that Doctors, with all their schooling, would be able to figure something out.
Last night he was taken for an MRI, which revealed nothing. His white blood count is up, which means the antibiotics are doing good work.
I haven't talked to them this morning, yet. More may have happened in the night; so I'll let you know when I have some news.
Meanwhile....
I am up and ready for day 3 of school. More sleep would have been nice, but alas, it was not to be.
The boys are getting ready for school, and I am slamming coffee.
I have been studying prayer in Scripture, and I learned why people don't like to do it. It's like lighting a really bright lantern in my soul that reveals all the ugliness in there. Spending time with God shows me all this stuff in me that I'd rather not illumine. It also shows me that God is even Bigger than I thought. It's all about Him, when I thought it was all about me. It's a melancholy moment.
Most of the time I think I'm really quite wonderful. I get that one complex where I think you should all think I'm wonderful, too. It's that Emperor's New Clothes thingy, where all of Y'all knew I was naked the whole time, and only I was deceived. There's lots of moments like that in my life.
You'd think with all that nakedness, there would be a little more scandal.
Just kidding, Yvonne.
Anyway, I am off to cook breakfast and jump into school. You should pray for me!
Don't mind the raging fever or the excruciating pain, or the fact that he's in the hospital. They still have no idea what's wrong with him. You'd think that Doctors, with all their schooling, would be able to figure something out.
Last night he was taken for an MRI, which revealed nothing. His white blood count is up, which means the antibiotics are doing good work.
I haven't talked to them this morning, yet. More may have happened in the night; so I'll let you know when I have some news.
Meanwhile....
I am up and ready for day 3 of school. More sleep would have been nice, but alas, it was not to be.
The boys are getting ready for school, and I am slamming coffee.
I have been studying prayer in Scripture, and I learned why people don't like to do it. It's like lighting a really bright lantern in my soul that reveals all the ugliness in there. Spending time with God shows me all this stuff in me that I'd rather not illumine. It also shows me that God is even Bigger than I thought. It's all about Him, when I thought it was all about me. It's a melancholy moment.
Most of the time I think I'm really quite wonderful. I get that one complex where I think you should all think I'm wonderful, too. It's that Emperor's New Clothes thingy, where all of Y'all knew I was naked the whole time, and only I was deceived. There's lots of moments like that in my life.
You'd think with all that nakedness, there would be a little more scandal.
Just kidding, Yvonne.
Anyway, I am off to cook breakfast and jump into school. You should pray for me!
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
Bigger problems than mine
Well, now we seem to have bigger problems than mild scandal and sore feet.
My sister's Man is in the hospital. He has a mystery illness that seems to have the Doctors baffled. There's pain and a fever and he's really, really sick. There doesn't seem to be an explanation at this point. We are praying for him. Ryan is his name. You know my sister, Dani ....she's the one with a brand-new baby. So, you could pray for that entire family, and I'll keep you posted as we learn more.
My foot still hurts, but it doesn't seem to matter all that much. Perspective is a wonderful thing.
My sister's Man is in the hospital. He has a mystery illness that seems to have the Doctors baffled. There's pain and a fever and he's really, really sick. There doesn't seem to be an explanation at this point. We are praying for him. Ryan is his name. You know my sister, Dani ....she's the one with a brand-new baby. So, you could pray for that entire family, and I'll keep you posted as we learn more.
My foot still hurts, but it doesn't seem to matter all that much. Perspective is a wonderful thing.
Saturday, August 26, 2006
Whine....
My foot hurts and I don't know why.
Chuck said, "put ice on it and elevate it."
Sound advice!
My Mother (the R.N.) said, "put a cold bottle of wine on it, and sip from the bottle."
Sounder Advice
So, I finally painted my green stripe. I have had this green stripe in my kitchen, way up high, where I couldn't reach when I painted the kitchen brown. I pulled out the ladder and did it today. The green stripe has been a wonderful conversation piece, though. I expect I shall miss it. People who sat in my living room would allow their eyes to drift upwards to view this shocking border along the ceiling. I think the first question they would ask had something to do with whether or not it was intentional. It was very amusing.
I know it made me look lazy. And I was, so I guess that's ok.
The next home improvement is either going to be wallpapering my bathroom, or painting the hallway. The hallway boasts the only white walls still in the house.
I got a quote on painting the exterior of the house. That was in April or May. The painter calls every month or so to let me know that I am still on his list. The house needs to be painted before the Second Coming. It really does!
I need landscaping- badly! And new flooring. Light fixtures. Money.
If I were very rich, I would have that house by the sea that I told you about, and it would have formal gardens with a fountain. And Gargoyles. And griffons and dragons and statues of Greek mythology. Lots of statues.
And Ivy.
I started out telling you about my hurt foot, and I end up dreaming of riches!
If I were rich I would go to the doctor...He would probably tell me to elevate my foot and put ice on it. What fun would that be?
Chuck said, "put ice on it and elevate it."
Sound advice!
My Mother (the R.N.) said, "put a cold bottle of wine on it, and sip from the bottle."
Sounder Advice
So, I finally painted my green stripe. I have had this green stripe in my kitchen, way up high, where I couldn't reach when I painted the kitchen brown. I pulled out the ladder and did it today. The green stripe has been a wonderful conversation piece, though. I expect I shall miss it. People who sat in my living room would allow their eyes to drift upwards to view this shocking border along the ceiling. I think the first question they would ask had something to do with whether or not it was intentional. It was very amusing.
I know it made me look lazy. And I was, so I guess that's ok.
The next home improvement is either going to be wallpapering my bathroom, or painting the hallway. The hallway boasts the only white walls still in the house.
I got a quote on painting the exterior of the house. That was in April or May. The painter calls every month or so to let me know that I am still on his list. The house needs to be painted before the Second Coming. It really does!
I need landscaping- badly! And new flooring. Light fixtures. Money.
If I were very rich, I would have that house by the sea that I told you about, and it would have formal gardens with a fountain. And Gargoyles. And griffons and dragons and statues of Greek mythology. Lots of statues.
And Ivy.
I started out telling you about my hurt foot, and I end up dreaming of riches!
If I were rich I would go to the doctor...He would probably tell me to elevate my foot and put ice on it. What fun would that be?
Friday, August 25, 2006
Afternoon Slump
I really should come up with something interesting to blog about. I have no idea what that ought to be, though.
Today I did laundry and cleaned the house. That was Responsible of me.
I did lots of kid stuff this week.
I went to The local puddle a couple times to play in the water with my kids.
I went to the water slide park and ran around like a silly girl. I screamed a lot there. It was wonderful.
I also did the usual workish sorts of things that had to be done.
You know, a cup of coffee would help a lot. My problem this afternoon is that I have absolutely no discernable brainwave activity. Perhaps I shouldn't operate heavy machinery. If I would begin to sleep from time to time, I expect the situation would change for me. I am one of those adults who requires a daily nap for optimal performance. Naps are totally wasted on children.
I think water slide parks are totally wasted on children, too. If I owned Roaring Springs, I would have an Over 21 day every couple weeks. I would serve appetizers and cocktails, and I would have live music. Then the grownups could run amok without children and their snotty noses. Adults could have fun and laugh and get some pretty good exercise, too. I would make a fortune because everyone would want to be there.
I am going to go get some coffee....
Today I did laundry and cleaned the house. That was Responsible of me.
I did lots of kid stuff this week.
I went to The local puddle a couple times to play in the water with my kids.
I went to the water slide park and ran around like a silly girl. I screamed a lot there. It was wonderful.
I also did the usual workish sorts of things that had to be done.
You know, a cup of coffee would help a lot. My problem this afternoon is that I have absolutely no discernable brainwave activity. Perhaps I shouldn't operate heavy machinery. If I would begin to sleep from time to time, I expect the situation would change for me. I am one of those adults who requires a daily nap for optimal performance. Naps are totally wasted on children.
I think water slide parks are totally wasted on children, too. If I owned Roaring Springs, I would have an Over 21 day every couple weeks. I would serve appetizers and cocktails, and I would have live music. Then the grownups could run amok without children and their snotty noses. Adults could have fun and laugh and get some pretty good exercise, too. I would make a fortune because everyone would want to be there.
I am going to go get some coffee....
Monday, August 21, 2006
Monday
The Last Monday of Summer
I woke up so happy this morning, with a prayer on my lips.
Today will be a detail day. I have stuff to do around the house and yard, make a deposit, buy toilet paper. But nothing that I Must Do. Mowing the lawn is the closest thing to an obligation that I have. That makes me happy.
We girls at bible study have been talking about what Celise calls "squishability." That is a wonderful word for the ability to squish loads of activity into a day. It barely dawned on us to pray for less to do rather than for more squishability.
Less to do would be a wonderful thing.
The single most difficult thing about being a single mom is having to do everything. I have to parent the kids, take care of the house, pay the bills, deal with the yard, the car, the shopping, maintain relationships. I manage to do a little bit of everything, but I do nothing well.
Hey! I do Nothing, and I do it Well!
That's some consolation.
Perhaps I should embrace that.
...But then who would buy toilet paper?
I woke up so happy this morning, with a prayer on my lips.
Today will be a detail day. I have stuff to do around the house and yard, make a deposit, buy toilet paper. But nothing that I Must Do. Mowing the lawn is the closest thing to an obligation that I have. That makes me happy.
We girls at bible study have been talking about what Celise calls "squishability." That is a wonderful word for the ability to squish loads of activity into a day. It barely dawned on us to pray for less to do rather than for more squishability.
Less to do would be a wonderful thing.
The single most difficult thing about being a single mom is having to do everything. I have to parent the kids, take care of the house, pay the bills, deal with the yard, the car, the shopping, maintain relationships. I manage to do a little bit of everything, but I do nothing well.
Hey! I do Nothing, and I do it Well!
That's some consolation.
Perhaps I should embrace that.
...But then who would buy toilet paper?
Sunday, August 20, 2006
The importance of socks
Good socks are very important.
Have you given this much consideration? You've probably thought about it more than you realize. ( I was going to say "more than you think," but you can't really think about something more than you think. Its impossible.)
I raided M's sock drawer today and found a wonderfully comfortable pair.
I own woolen socks, which you can't really wear with shoes because they're too thick.
I have striped socks with individual toes. Those can't really be worn either. Although they are very funny. They have pink stripes.
There's socks with holes,
and socks that have lost their better half (can we call them 'divorced'? Maybe there is hope for them to be reunited...which is why I have a drawer full of them. I am a hopeless romantic.)
and socks with that annoying seam across the toes....
My sister, Amanda, use to call that annoying seam by a funny name. She would say that her "limbs" were bothering her, and she would sit down and start adjusting. She meant the seam in her sock and not the end of her leg. She was, like, 3 at the time, and maybe 18 inches tall. I don't know why she called them 'limbs,' but it was very amusing. She named her pacifier when she was little, too. She called it Myrna.
I was talking about socks...
A girlfriend was just yelling at her kid to put on shoes. He was running around outside in his socks, and she was afraid he'd get holes. Darn it! (if you got that joke, I am very proud of you.)
See how often you think of them?
Uncomfortable socks can be so distracting. They can ruin your whole day.
You must wear socks the right thickness and color for your clothes.
They have to be washed and folded, somehow. I hate folding socks!
You see them every day. They are a huge part of your life.
Who knew?
Socks could be the Key to True Happiness.
So, the moral of this story is:
Spend more on socks.
Have you given this much consideration? You've probably thought about it more than you realize. ( I was going to say "more than you think," but you can't really think about something more than you think. Its impossible.)
I raided M's sock drawer today and found a wonderfully comfortable pair.
I own woolen socks, which you can't really wear with shoes because they're too thick.
I have striped socks with individual toes. Those can't really be worn either. Although they are very funny. They have pink stripes.
There's socks with holes,
and socks that have lost their better half (can we call them 'divorced'? Maybe there is hope for them to be reunited...which is why I have a drawer full of them. I am a hopeless romantic.)
and socks with that annoying seam across the toes....
My sister, Amanda, use to call that annoying seam by a funny name. She would say that her "limbs" were bothering her, and she would sit down and start adjusting. She meant the seam in her sock and not the end of her leg. She was, like, 3 at the time, and maybe 18 inches tall. I don't know why she called them 'limbs,' but it was very amusing. She named her pacifier when she was little, too. She called it Myrna.
I was talking about socks...
A girlfriend was just yelling at her kid to put on shoes. He was running around outside in his socks, and she was afraid he'd get holes. Darn it! (if you got that joke, I am very proud of you.)
See how often you think of them?
Uncomfortable socks can be so distracting. They can ruin your whole day.
You must wear socks the right thickness and color for your clothes.
They have to be washed and folded, somehow. I hate folding socks!
You see them every day. They are a huge part of your life.
Who knew?
Socks could be the Key to True Happiness.
So, the moral of this story is:
Spend more on socks.
Friday, August 18, 2006
I am flighty
I am swamped. I should absolutely not be writing today, because I need to spring into action and start getting some stuff done.
However, I want to vent.
There's something I don't like about myself that is causing me difficult: My mind is fragmented. I forget stuff because there is too much rolling about in my head.
Case in Point-
Last night I needed to take the garbage down to the curb because the garbage collectors have been coming before 7 in the morning lately. I forgot. I woke in a panic when I heard the truck, and I missed the opportunity.
Or-
I double-book myself all the time. If I don't write stuff down, I am liable to make two plans for the same timeframe, and totally cause people annoyance. I have done this today, for instance.
The bottom line is that I am too busy.
Yes, I know that you all knew that. I know it, too. The question is WHAT DO I DO ABOUT IT?
I have to say "no" more. I have to discipline myself to a schedule. I must, Must, MUST write everything down.
The reason that I don't do that more is that I want to be with people. I love my friends, and being diligent about responsibilities means that I can't play.
Plus, I think some of it is that flighty personality I am strapped with. If I could choose my personality, I'd be Choleric/ Melancholy. Then my house would be clean and I would do everything well.
As it is:
I want to go to Saver's with Jenine,
I want to go to TJMaxx and More with Patsy,
I want to go to Roaring Springs with Elke,
I want to go to Eagle Island with Kara,
I want to have you over and linger over coffee or wine...
I want, I want, I want
(Blogging is very Narcissistic.)
Anyway....
I need to clean the house and parent and homeschool and pay the bills. Where is the fun in that?
Ugh!
However, I want to vent.
There's something I don't like about myself that is causing me difficult: My mind is fragmented. I forget stuff because there is too much rolling about in my head.
Case in Point-
Last night I needed to take the garbage down to the curb because the garbage collectors have been coming before 7 in the morning lately. I forgot. I woke in a panic when I heard the truck, and I missed the opportunity.
Or-
I double-book myself all the time. If I don't write stuff down, I am liable to make two plans for the same timeframe, and totally cause people annoyance. I have done this today, for instance.
The bottom line is that I am too busy.
Yes, I know that you all knew that. I know it, too. The question is WHAT DO I DO ABOUT IT?
I have to say "no" more. I have to discipline myself to a schedule. I must, Must, MUST write everything down.
The reason that I don't do that more is that I want to be with people. I love my friends, and being diligent about responsibilities means that I can't play.
Plus, I think some of it is that flighty personality I am strapped with. If I could choose my personality, I'd be Choleric/ Melancholy. Then my house would be clean and I would do everything well.
As it is:
I want to go to Saver's with Jenine,
I want to go to TJMaxx and More with Patsy,
I want to go to Roaring Springs with Elke,
I want to go to Eagle Island with Kara,
I want to have you over and linger over coffee or wine...
I want, I want, I want
(Blogging is very Narcissistic.)
Anyway....
I need to clean the house and parent and homeschool and pay the bills. Where is the fun in that?
Ugh!
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
When I grow up....
My kids seem to think that when they grow up, they can do anything they want to. All kids think that, don't they?
So I got to thinking what I would Do and Be if I could have my heart's desire.
I would be fluent in several Languages. Latin, Spanish, French, Ancient Greek, and Hebrew, and maybe German.
I would travel the world visiting missionaries. That would be my ministry! I would bring them tokens from home and encourage them.
My handsome husband would be strong and brilliant, and we would worship the ground I walk upon.
I would hold several black belts and be proficient with Broad sword, Long sword, and Fans.
I would paint china like my Granny. It's a dying art, you know.
I would be a fabulous housekeeper, and have a lovely formal garden around my Victorian mansion overlooking the ocean. Plus, I'd have guest quarters so that you could come and stay any time you want.
I would run and weight train every day, so I'd be slender and strong.
My hair would be long enough to sit on. And I'd have really cool clothes.
I'd have more kids, and home educate them. I'd adopt some, too.
I'd write books in my free time.
What would you Be and Do if there were no limits?
If God allowed me to be and do all the things I want, I suppose I wouldn't be nearly as dependant upon Him. That would be bad, huh?
So I got to thinking what I would Do and Be if I could have my heart's desire.
I would be fluent in several Languages. Latin, Spanish, French, Ancient Greek, and Hebrew, and maybe German.
I would travel the world visiting missionaries. That would be my ministry! I would bring them tokens from home and encourage them.
My handsome husband would be strong and brilliant, and we would worship the ground I walk upon.
I would hold several black belts and be proficient with Broad sword, Long sword, and Fans.
I would paint china like my Granny. It's a dying art, you know.
I would be a fabulous housekeeper, and have a lovely formal garden around my Victorian mansion overlooking the ocean. Plus, I'd have guest quarters so that you could come and stay any time you want.
I would run and weight train every day, so I'd be slender and strong.
My hair would be long enough to sit on. And I'd have really cool clothes.
I'd have more kids, and home educate them. I'd adopt some, too.
I'd write books in my free time.
What would you Be and Do if there were no limits?
If God allowed me to be and do all the things I want, I suppose I wouldn't be nearly as dependant upon Him. That would be bad, huh?
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
Auntie Margi
Martial arts allows me to hit people and throw them around, so that I can release my aggressions in a socially acceptable manner. It's really very therapeutic. Plus, my children are involved in the classes with me. That way I can yell at them and they can punch me, and we all go home happy. It's fun.
When I was a little girl, my Auntie Margi was a budding martial artist. She was the coolest Aunt in the world because she was a teenager, and she wore braces on her teeth. I always wanted to get braces, because she had braces. Then I got them and they hurt, but that's not really very interesting. The point, albeit a limited one, is that I don't remember ever wanting to be a martial artist even though my favorite Aunt was one.
I did want to be a missionary because of her, and that might still happen someday.
I wanted to be a Japanese Cheerleader for Stanford. (That's true! Would I make that up?) Auntie Margi was never a Japanese Cheerleader for Stanford. Nor for Biola, and that is where she actually went to college. She did go to Japan on a missions trip.
But I don't think I ever wanted to be a tough girl. I liked pink and dolls and tea parties and stuff.
But then God gave me boys. So, it somehow seemed wrong to allow my boys too many tea parties. I took them to learn to defend me gallantly, instead. This is how I think, you know "defend me gallantly' and stuff like that. I have envisioned them as Mighty Defenders of Women and Children. Manly Men.
And then I signed up, too. What does that make me?
It's fun to be such a dichotomy. I can invite you into my pink living room with doilies and antimacassars, and if you try to attack me, I can kick your sweet derriere! I'm real tough until I break a nail.
Actually, now that I am into this sport, I really want to have a black belt like my favorite Auntie.
I could be a Black Belt Missionary to Japan, but I don't know how to work Stanford into the story. I'll keep working on that.
When I was a little girl, my Auntie Margi was a budding martial artist. She was the coolest Aunt in the world because she was a teenager, and she wore braces on her teeth. I always wanted to get braces, because she had braces. Then I got them and they hurt, but that's not really very interesting. The point, albeit a limited one, is that I don't remember ever wanting to be a martial artist even though my favorite Aunt was one.
I did want to be a missionary because of her, and that might still happen someday.
I wanted to be a Japanese Cheerleader for Stanford. (That's true! Would I make that up?) Auntie Margi was never a Japanese Cheerleader for Stanford. Nor for Biola, and that is where she actually went to college. She did go to Japan on a missions trip.
But I don't think I ever wanted to be a tough girl. I liked pink and dolls and tea parties and stuff.
But then God gave me boys. So, it somehow seemed wrong to allow my boys too many tea parties. I took them to learn to defend me gallantly, instead. This is how I think, you know "defend me gallantly' and stuff like that. I have envisioned them as Mighty Defenders of Women and Children. Manly Men.
And then I signed up, too. What does that make me?
It's fun to be such a dichotomy. I can invite you into my pink living room with doilies and antimacassars, and if you try to attack me, I can kick your sweet derriere! I'm real tough until I break a nail.
Actually, now that I am into this sport, I really want to have a black belt like my favorite Auntie.
I could be a Black Belt Missionary to Japan, but I don't know how to work Stanford into the story. I'll keep working on that.
Monday, August 14, 2006
The last of summer
It's Monday morning, and I am well rested. This is rare. I think it has something to do with actually indulging in the biblical command for a day of rest. We did almost nothing yesterday. We didn't even go to church!
It was wonderful.
So, I am ready for the week.
We have two weeks left of summer, and lots to do.
I had determined to take the boys camping thrice this summer, and we've only been once. I really would like to do that again before the weather gets chilly.
We have free passes to the Water park that we need to use.
I still need to have a garage sale, too.
All-in-all, we've had a very fun summer. The boys were more social this summer than ever before.
M' has a couple of friends that he wants to spend all his time with, and a pretty little girl down the street that he seems to think of all the time. I am so not ready for the teen years!
We hung out at Eagle Island (the local puddle) lots and lots. D' finally learned to swim. Now that's all he wants to do!
This school year we are going to maintain a brisk pace. The boys and I are doing martial arts 3 and 4 days a week. We are learning to wield a sword! M' is going to take more art lessons this year. D' really hasn't exhibited a great interest in anything outside of martial arts, so we'll see how long that lasts. With all that, and my little bible study group, we are going to have something to do every day.
I guess we just have to dive in until we resurface next summer.
But not yet...I have 2 blessed weeks left.
It was wonderful.
So, I am ready for the week.
We have two weeks left of summer, and lots to do.
I had determined to take the boys camping thrice this summer, and we've only been once. I really would like to do that again before the weather gets chilly.
We have free passes to the Water park that we need to use.
I still need to have a garage sale, too.
All-in-all, we've had a very fun summer. The boys were more social this summer than ever before.
M' has a couple of friends that he wants to spend all his time with, and a pretty little girl down the street that he seems to think of all the time. I am so not ready for the teen years!
We hung out at Eagle Island (the local puddle) lots and lots. D' finally learned to swim. Now that's all he wants to do!
This school year we are going to maintain a brisk pace. The boys and I are doing martial arts 3 and 4 days a week. We are learning to wield a sword! M' is going to take more art lessons this year. D' really hasn't exhibited a great interest in anything outside of martial arts, so we'll see how long that lasts. With all that, and my little bible study group, we are going to have something to do every day.
I guess we just have to dive in until we resurface next summer.
But not yet...I have 2 blessed weeks left.
Friday, August 11, 2006
"Oar" is not a verb
I have no idea how to tell you how funny today was. I laughed and laughed!
Kara and Lisa and I floated the river.
Kara was having a Princess Complex and had to recline languidly across the boat whilst Lisa and I rowed. I offered to feed her grapes, only we didn't have any. She didn't want to get wet, or cold, or have to work hard. That would be icky.
Kara did ask us at one point, "Should I oar?"
Lisa and I rolled our eyes. "Oar" is not a verb.
Lisa was very serious about safety, and wore her life jacket. She kept her cell phone close in case of emergency. It was wrapped in 5 (or was it 6?) little zip-lock bags and stuffed down in her cleavage. . I don't think she could have answered it if it actually rang.
Jenine was supposed to come, only she didn't. I don't know why. Were were you, Jenine?
I don't know what was so funny. Kara kept welling up with laughter about the slightest things. That, in itself, was very amusing!
Before we got in to the river, when we were filling the boat with air...Lisa was talking to us...then the strangest thing happened! Lisa began to run.
Away from us.
Fast.
Kara started laughing, "what is she doing?"
I started laughing, too. "Jogging, seems to me."
Kara said, "Do you think she might not ever come back?"
I shrugged.
She did come back after a bit.
Walking.
So off we went.
Kara sat in the boat on an air mattress
and on the inflatable boat -seat-thingy
and on a life jacket.
In all, I think she was four feet above river level.
Me and Lisa "oar-ed."
We had a very fun time....
If you haven't ever floated down the Boise River, You HAVE GOT to try it!
Kara and Lisa and I floated the river.
Kara was having a Princess Complex and had to recline languidly across the boat whilst Lisa and I rowed. I offered to feed her grapes, only we didn't have any. She didn't want to get wet, or cold, or have to work hard. That would be icky.
Kara did ask us at one point, "Should I oar?"
Lisa and I rolled our eyes. "Oar" is not a verb.
Lisa was very serious about safety, and wore her life jacket. She kept her cell phone close in case of emergency. It was wrapped in 5 (or was it 6?) little zip-lock bags and stuffed down in her cleavage. . I don't think she could have answered it if it actually rang.
Jenine was supposed to come, only she didn't. I don't know why. Were were you, Jenine?
I don't know what was so funny. Kara kept welling up with laughter about the slightest things. That, in itself, was very amusing!
Before we got in to the river, when we were filling the boat with air...Lisa was talking to us...then the strangest thing happened! Lisa began to run.
Away from us.
Fast.
Kara started laughing, "what is she doing?"
I started laughing, too. "Jogging, seems to me."
Kara said, "Do you think she might not ever come back?"
I shrugged.
She did come back after a bit.
Walking.
So off we went.
Kara sat in the boat on an air mattress
and on the inflatable boat -seat-thingy
and on a life jacket.
In all, I think she was four feet above river level.
Me and Lisa "oar-ed."
We had a very fun time....
If you haven't ever floated down the Boise River, You HAVE GOT to try it!
I'm fat
I have been eating unbelievable amounts of really good food. This is the leading cause of obesity.
You know how we always say that age slows down our metabolism? There may be some truth in that, but I don't know. I think that the real thing is that as I get older, I appreciate good food with candlelight and soft music and wine. It's a whole sensual experience. Heaven knows I don't get many of those!
I care less about what I look like in swim wear.
Gaining weight = going shopping for new clothes.
Lively accessories cover a multitude of sins.
Do you see how I am feeling about this? Here I sit writing to you rather than running. I am deeply happy about it!
Plus, all of my friends seem to be doing the very same thing. Why would I want to make them look bad by being all skinny? (this is where I nudge Kara).
See?
Eating makes me happy, gets me shopping, fulfills my need for creativity and sensuality, and it makes me a better friend! Why would I stop?
You know how we always say that age slows down our metabolism? There may be some truth in that, but I don't know. I think that the real thing is that as I get older, I appreciate good food with candlelight and soft music and wine. It's a whole sensual experience. Heaven knows I don't get many of those!
I care less about what I look like in swim wear.
Gaining weight = going shopping for new clothes.
Lively accessories cover a multitude of sins.
Do you see how I am feeling about this? Here I sit writing to you rather than running. I am deeply happy about it!
Plus, all of my friends seem to be doing the very same thing. Why would I want to make them look bad by being all skinny? (this is where I nudge Kara).
See?
Eating makes me happy, gets me shopping, fulfills my need for creativity and sensuality, and it makes me a better friend! Why would I stop?
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
a little update
I have been neglecting you terribly. I am so sorry!
The truth is that Chuck came to town, and I always disappear from the radar when he is here.It's an odd thing. Here in my life I have my friends and my children and a vast variety of work to do. When Chuck comes to town, it's like being on a date for a week. He is sort of in vacation mode, so I don't get anything done.
We've had fun, though, there's no arguing that!
Last weekend we went to a really beautiful place called Black Canyon reservoir. The boys got to fish and we picnicked and the kids swam. It was really fun. We went hiking and watched the sun set. Plus, I get to learn stuff...
For myself, I find that I am not very spontaneous.
I like to have a plan and work the plan.
I like to measure the value of my day by how much I have accomplished.
I know this may be surprising to you, but I am speaking in comparison to Chuck. He likes to be outside and to have fun and to see everyone else have fun too.
Chuck will say, "What would you like to do today, D'?"
"I want to go swimming!"
Chuck will ask, "What would you like to do today, M'?"
"I want to go fishing!"
Chuck then inquires, "What would you like to do today, Dearest?"
"I would be so happy if we could stick close to home and get the house clean and do a bunch of yard work!"
Chuck says, "No, Really."
At this point I scramble a little trying to think of something else that would thrill my soul and take us all outdoors...Inspiration strikes!
"What would you like to do today, Chuck?" I ask.
"I'd like to get outside and do some hiking." He loves to hike.
So I say, "Let's go hiking and fishing and swimming!"
This never works! He always ends up sighing wearily and asking , "But, what do YOU want to do today?"
We have this discussion every day. I know that M' wants to fish and D' wants to swim, and Chuck wants to hike. I think everyone knows that I want to clean, but once in a while I suggest shopping just to spice things up.
This morning I could go and clean the kitchen before Chuck makes an appearance, but instead I am blogging. Obviously, my time management skills could stand some review.
However,
I did get some homeschool stuff done. We start schooling in a couple weeks, so I have been planning my lessons and gathering supplies. The schedule of the school year is welcome after a couple months of summer.
I have daycare kids who seem to think it is my job to feed them, so I must away for now!
The truth is that Chuck came to town, and I always disappear from the radar when he is here.It's an odd thing. Here in my life I have my friends and my children and a vast variety of work to do. When Chuck comes to town, it's like being on a date for a week. He is sort of in vacation mode, so I don't get anything done.
We've had fun, though, there's no arguing that!
Last weekend we went to a really beautiful place called Black Canyon reservoir. The boys got to fish and we picnicked and the kids swam. It was really fun. We went hiking and watched the sun set. Plus, I get to learn stuff...
For myself, I find that I am not very spontaneous.
I like to have a plan and work the plan.
I like to measure the value of my day by how much I have accomplished.
I know this may be surprising to you, but I am speaking in comparison to Chuck. He likes to be outside and to have fun and to see everyone else have fun too.
Chuck will say, "What would you like to do today, D'?"
"I want to go swimming!"
Chuck will ask, "What would you like to do today, M'?"
"I want to go fishing!"
Chuck then inquires, "What would you like to do today, Dearest?"
"I would be so happy if we could stick close to home and get the house clean and do a bunch of yard work!"
Chuck says, "No, Really."
At this point I scramble a little trying to think of something else that would thrill my soul and take us all outdoors...Inspiration strikes!
"What would you like to do today, Chuck?" I ask.
"I'd like to get outside and do some hiking." He loves to hike.
So I say, "Let's go hiking and fishing and swimming!"
This never works! He always ends up sighing wearily and asking , "But, what do YOU want to do today?"
We have this discussion every day. I know that M' wants to fish and D' wants to swim, and Chuck wants to hike. I think everyone knows that I want to clean, but once in a while I suggest shopping just to spice things up.
This morning I could go and clean the kitchen before Chuck makes an appearance, but instead I am blogging. Obviously, my time management skills could stand some review.
However,
I did get some homeschool stuff done. We start schooling in a couple weeks, so I have been planning my lessons and gathering supplies. The schedule of the school year is welcome after a couple months of summer.
I have daycare kids who seem to think it is my job to feed them, so I must away for now!
Friday, August 04, 2006
What would Wilma say?
This is a recent picture of me and Chuck. Notice how slender and naturally blond I am. See how very masculine Chuck is in his caveman suit? He's the outdoors type, and I'm kind of a city girl.
Contentions
Good morning to you all.
I was awake in the night writing a profound and life-changing blog in my head. It was monumental! Brilliant!
But it's gone now.
I have in it's place a thick fog which I am counting on the coffee to clear.
I was reading Proverbs this morning and thinking about The Contentious Women. It's really bad to be contentious. If you are contentious, then you are argumentative, and you cause strife.
I like to argue, but I don't like strife.
I like friendly arguments.
I have this one friend named Suzie, and her husband Dan is so much fun to argue with. He is one of those people with whom you can really debate without ever getting angry. Chuck would say that is an argument without a quarrel.
But I don't suppose that's what Proverbs is talking about.
Why is an quarrelsome woman so bad? Somehow it mars God's design for biblical femininity. The opposite of Contentious, then, what would that be? Compliant? Nah, God seems to appreciate women with spunk. Look at Abigail. That girl had chutzpah!
Perhaps the key would be Respect. A respectful woman who can state her case without bludgeoning her husband with her opinion.
I should work on that.
I don't really have a husband. But if I did, I think I would be the sort that could be awfully contentious. It's more than liking to argue for me. It's that I have done things my own way for so long, that I might want to impose that upon him. So, maybe being flexible is part of the antidote.
If you are a married woman who has thought this thru, you should comment and tell me all your wisdom.
If you are a married man, and have thoughts on this, I'd love to hear your wisdom, too.
I am pondering....
I was awake in the night writing a profound and life-changing blog in my head. It was monumental! Brilliant!
But it's gone now.
I have in it's place a thick fog which I am counting on the coffee to clear.
I was reading Proverbs this morning and thinking about The Contentious Women. It's really bad to be contentious. If you are contentious, then you are argumentative, and you cause strife.
I like to argue, but I don't like strife.
I like friendly arguments.
I have this one friend named Suzie, and her husband Dan is so much fun to argue with. He is one of those people with whom you can really debate without ever getting angry. Chuck would say that is an argument without a quarrel.
But I don't suppose that's what Proverbs is talking about.
Why is an quarrelsome woman so bad? Somehow it mars God's design for biblical femininity. The opposite of Contentious, then, what would that be? Compliant? Nah, God seems to appreciate women with spunk. Look at Abigail. That girl had chutzpah!
Perhaps the key would be Respect. A respectful woman who can state her case without bludgeoning her husband with her opinion.
I should work on that.
I don't really have a husband. But if I did, I think I would be the sort that could be awfully contentious. It's more than liking to argue for me. It's that I have done things my own way for so long, that I might want to impose that upon him. So, maybe being flexible is part of the antidote.
If you are a married woman who has thought this thru, you should comment and tell me all your wisdom.
If you are a married man, and have thoughts on this, I'd love to hear your wisdom, too.
I am pondering....
Thursday, August 03, 2006
So the pressure mounts...
I keep hearing of more people who are reading, and I am thrilled by that.That is because I am a little silly, and I love to have an audience. Some of my other friends are picking up this habit, too. It appears to be contagious.
The thought crossed my mind that I ought to write frequently and be extraordinarily witty and brilliant. Um, that may be too much to ask.
Writing something that others are reading keeps me thinking about my dream to write a book or two someday. I am struck by how very difficult it is.
How would I stay on the same topic long enough to make a chapter?
How would I find a way to tie all these Sanguine stories together into an entire book?
How does one write for a broad audience? ...or an audience of broads?
I was thinking that I could write to single mom's, but they have no time to read.
I would write about death,
and divorce,
and what Meth does to a family,
and financial ruin.
I would also write about family
and friendship,
and Jesus
and hope,
and kids,
...and stuff.
I would include a lot of humor, and personal reflection.
It would probably be very boring.
Actually, it did occur to me that people might not buy it if I market it as a non-fiction. They may not believe me!
It's easier to write about other people, than to write about myself. So, if you are reading this and I know you well at all, you should be forewarned. I will use you in my book, but I can change your name to protect you if you are innocent. If you are guilty, then I guess you are kind of out of luck.
I could make up great names for you, too!
How about Mildred? Or Hidegard? Or Clementine?
Would those names add to the believability of my story?
I would have to see if I could hire Yvonne as my consultant, because she has a stunningly accurate memory. Or I think she does. How would I know if she didn't when I don't remember?
Chuck is always teasing me because I remember in emotion rather than in specific. For instance, I could have a general impression that you were mean yesterday, but I can't really remember what you said that hurt me...that sort of thing. It's quite inconvenient when I am arguing, because I have no examples of any of my points. It would be a bother when writing a book, too, I should think. O, well...
I keep hearing of more people who are reading, and I am thrilled by that.That is because I am a little silly, and I love to have an audience. Some of my other friends are picking up this habit, too. It appears to be contagious.
The thought crossed my mind that I ought to write frequently and be extraordinarily witty and brilliant. Um, that may be too much to ask.
Writing something that others are reading keeps me thinking about my dream to write a book or two someday. I am struck by how very difficult it is.
How would I stay on the same topic long enough to make a chapter?
How would I find a way to tie all these Sanguine stories together into an entire book?
How does one write for a broad audience? ...or an audience of broads?
I was thinking that I could write to single mom's, but they have no time to read.
I would write about death,
and divorce,
and what Meth does to a family,
and financial ruin.
I would also write about family
and friendship,
and Jesus
and hope,
and kids,
...and stuff.
I would include a lot of humor, and personal reflection.
It would probably be very boring.
Actually, it did occur to me that people might not buy it if I market it as a non-fiction. They may not believe me!
It's easier to write about other people, than to write about myself. So, if you are reading this and I know you well at all, you should be forewarned. I will use you in my book, but I can change your name to protect you if you are innocent. If you are guilty, then I guess you are kind of out of luck.
I could make up great names for you, too!
How about Mildred? Or Hidegard? Or Clementine?
Would those names add to the believability of my story?
I would have to see if I could hire Yvonne as my consultant, because she has a stunningly accurate memory. Or I think she does. How would I know if she didn't when I don't remember?
Chuck is always teasing me because I remember in emotion rather than in specific. For instance, I could have a general impression that you were mean yesterday, but I can't really remember what you said that hurt me...that sort of thing. It's quite inconvenient when I am arguing, because I have no examples of any of my points. It would be a bother when writing a book, too, I should think. O, well...
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
I wrote this last night...
It's been a fun day for me, but I was in a sour mood. I think I was just tired. I told Patsy that I was dying of cancer. She rolled her eyes.
Patsy and I met at Starbucks this morning for a brief conversation. I was going to have coffee, but didn't feel like it once I got there, so I didn't. We talked about our kids. Her boy is all grown up, and I am in crisis over the fact. He was about 12-years-old yesterday. Her girls are getting big, too, but they are still young enough that I can be in denial.
My oldest is growing up fast, too. He wants to go to summer camp and flirt with girls and hang out with fiends...oops! I mean "friends." He is not allowed to do any of those things, in case you were wondering.
This all means that I am entering a new demographic.
I used to be young mom and drive a minivan and wear cute clothes on play-dates at Chuck-E-Cheese.
Now I am pushing 40. It is having a different effect on me than you might think. Other than the fact that my kids think I'm embarrassing, most parts of my age are great. I like that I don't have to be cool anymore.
Patsy and I met at Starbucks this morning for a brief conversation. I was going to have coffee, but didn't feel like it once I got there, so I didn't. We talked about our kids. Her boy is all grown up, and I am in crisis over the fact. He was about 12-years-old yesterday. Her girls are getting big, too, but they are still young enough that I can be in denial.
My oldest is growing up fast, too. He wants to go to summer camp and flirt with girls and hang out with fiends...oops! I mean "friends." He is not allowed to do any of those things, in case you were wondering.
This all means that I am entering a new demographic.
I used to be young mom and drive a minivan and wear cute clothes on play-dates at Chuck-E-Cheese.
Now I am pushing 40. It is having a different effect on me than you might think. Other than the fact that my kids think I'm embarrassing, most parts of my age are great. I like that I don't have to be cool anymore.
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