1) 30 Days of Night Horror.... I closed my eyes ALOT.... about 30 minutes into the movie I left the
room! It was just that bad.
2) Jesse Stone: Innocents LOST Investigation.... Tom Sellec (Looking very good) Interesting dialog, 'same old, same old' kinda detective story.
3) Limitless Thriller..... Great concept. I wont a life time supply of little clear pills too!!!
I watched them in that order. I would not recommend the first for anything, it was BAD. The second was okay, but not at all great. The third was good! I don't know that I would watch it again, but I did love the concept. Made me wonder what I could do to up my brain power, naturally!
Just sharing my movie views!
Sunday, October 30, 2011
LIVE LIKE I WAS DYING
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XiOcW_YR1G8
He said: "I was in my early forties,
"With a lot of life before me,
"An' a moment came that stopped me on a dime.
"I spent most of the next days,
"Looking at the x-rays,
"An' talking 'bout the options an' talkin’ ‘bout sweet time."
I asked him when it sank in,
That this might really be the real end?
How’s it hit you when you get that kind of news?
Man whatcha do?
An' he said: "I went sky diving, I went rocky mountain climbing,
"I went two point seven seconds on a bull named Fu Man Chu.
"And I loved deeper and I spoke sweeter,
"And I gave forgiveness I'd been denying."
An' he said: "Some day, I hope you get the chance,
"To live like you were dyin'."
He said "I was finally the husband,
"That most the time I wasn’t.
"An' I became a friend a friend would like to have.
"And all of a sudden goin' fishin’,
"Wasn’t such an imposition,
"And I went three times that year I lost my Dad.
"Well, I finally read the Good Book,
"And I took a good long hard look,
"At what I'd do if I could do it all again,
"And then:
"I went sky diving, I went rocky mountain climbing,
"I went two point seven seconds on a bull named Fu Man Chu.
"And I loved deeper and I spoke sweeter,
"And I gave forgiveness I'd been denying."
An' he said: "Some day, I hope you get the chance,
"To live like you were dyin'."
Like tomorrow was a gift,
And you got eternity,
To think about what you’d do with it.
An' what did you do with it?
An' what can I do with it?
An' what would I do with it?
"Sky diving, I went rocky mountain climbing,
"I went two point seven seconds on a bull named Fu Man Chu.
"And then I loved deeper and I spoke sweeter,
"And I watched Blue Eagle as it was flyin'."
An' he said: "Some day, I hope you get the chance,
"To live like you were dyin'."
"To live like you were dyin'."
"To live like you were dyin'."
"To live like you were dyin'."
"To live like you were dyin'."
I think its time I put this in practice!
He said: "I was in my early forties,
"With a lot of life before me,
"An' a moment came that stopped me on a dime.
"I spent most of the next days,
"Looking at the x-rays,
"An' talking 'bout the options an' talkin’ ‘bout sweet time."
I asked him when it sank in,
That this might really be the real end?
How’s it hit you when you get that kind of news?
Man whatcha do?
An' he said: "I went sky diving, I went rocky mountain climbing,
"I went two point seven seconds on a bull named Fu Man Chu.
"And I loved deeper and I spoke sweeter,
"And I gave forgiveness I'd been denying."
An' he said: "Some day, I hope you get the chance,
"To live like you were dyin'."
He said "I was finally the husband,
"That most the time I wasn’t.
"An' I became a friend a friend would like to have.
"And all of a sudden goin' fishin’,
"Wasn’t such an imposition,
"And I went three times that year I lost my Dad.
"Well, I finally read the Good Book,
"And I took a good long hard look,
"At what I'd do if I could do it all again,
"And then:
"I went sky diving, I went rocky mountain climbing,
"I went two point seven seconds on a bull named Fu Man Chu.
"And I loved deeper and I spoke sweeter,
"And I gave forgiveness I'd been denying."
An' he said: "Some day, I hope you get the chance,
"To live like you were dyin'."
Like tomorrow was a gift,
And you got eternity,
To think about what you’d do with it.
An' what did you do with it?
An' what can I do with it?
An' what would I do with it?
"Sky diving, I went rocky mountain climbing,
"I went two point seven seconds on a bull named Fu Man Chu.
"And then I loved deeper and I spoke sweeter,
"And I watched Blue Eagle as it was flyin'."
An' he said: "Some day, I hope you get the chance,
"To live like you were dyin'."
"To live like you were dyin'."
"To live like you were dyin'."
"To live like you were dyin'."
"To live like you were dyin'."
I think its time I put this in practice!
FIRSTS FOR ME
This weekend away, was a first for me, in so many ways. And I loved it!
There are things that I learned, new things that I saw, stories I loved.
Let me share some firsts.....
There are things that I learned, new things that I saw, stories I loved.
Let me share some firsts.....
- I slept within listening distance of Oak Creek (something I have wanted to do since I was little)
- I watched an owl fly
- I crossed a one lane bridge
- I saw a passenger train
- I saw more old trucks in one place than ever before
- I was complimented on a talent I was not aware I was good at
- I watched coyotes play
- I was serenaded
A bit of Heaven.....
The area is red rock hills and high desert.
The foliage is as close to 'fluffy' as I have ever gotten. And the leaves are changing!
The rain in the past week has caused the creek to be the color of rich,
slightly reddish chocolate milk. (Again with the many many joys of chocolate!)
I love the way the mist rises up from the creek as the sun comes up in the morning.
The way you can see every star out there.
The way the air smells...like just air.
The way the cold feels on your skin.
I love how as the sun sets, the temperature plummets,
and as the sun comes back up it drops again.
I love the sound the breeze in the trees, the birds, the bugs.
But the sound of the creek has always been my favorite sound.
I like the owl that lives near by. I saw him fly by.
I loved how the Heron perched on the branch, as though allowing us to spectate.
The ducks played in the water.
The coyote kept tabs on the rabbits, squirrels and other critters.
I loved every moment!
Desire Fulfilled
I have longed to go where there was beauty and quiet.
I have longed for time that was free from responsibility and have to's.
I have longed to enjoy doing nothing. Staying up late, sleeping in.
Not following a time frame, only being dictated by what I wanted to do.
I think I have wanted this all my life. And although a weekend away sounds so trivial.
This is my first ever.
I will be 45 in a month.
I plan to never let a desire go unfilled again.
How grateful I am to my friend who has provided me with this simple opportunity.
I do not have the words to explain the peace I feel.
Watching America's Favorite Pasttime
I don't watch tv often, maybe an hour a month, maybe. But I know that if the conditions where right; cable fitting in my budget, I would easily get sucked back into the true AMERICAN PAST TIME.... Television.
Friday night I watched the final game of the World Series. Texas and Saint Louis.
The Cardinals won their 11th series. And it was a home win. I guess it was a good game. I love to watch all sports, but I don't know enough about them to understand. I think if there had been some fighting or a little bloodshed it would have been more enjoyable. Not really blood shed, just excitement.
Not that I am into all that, but the silly game kept putting me to sleep.
I did however enjoy the commercials! The car companies know how to entertain in a very brief time frame. Chevrolet gets my vote for the best! Well done!
Thursday, October 27, 2011
....In History
I would like to think that I will be remembered for things that I have done in my life time. Perhaps the kind of mom I am, the friend I was. It wont be for my stellar baking skills or my travel portfolio. But I think if I am to be remembered it will be on a positive note.
In comparison .... this week in 1881 Wyatt, Virgil and Morgan Earp, along with Doc Holliday did that little "Shoot Out" thing at the 'O.K. Corral', with the Clantons and the McLowrys. Three men were killed and two were hurt in less than a minute.
Now I ask you....what kind on nonsense is that? Way too much non productive time on these boys hands. Yet they were remembered for it! Why?
I am sure I have done something that will speak well of my time and no one died because I needed an attitude adjustment. Go figure!!
In comparison .... this week in 1881 Wyatt, Virgil and Morgan Earp, along with Doc Holliday did that little "Shoot Out" thing at the 'O.K. Corral', with the Clantons and the McLowrys. Three men were killed and two were hurt in less than a minute.
Now I ask you....what kind on nonsense is that? Way too much non productive time on these boys hands. Yet they were remembered for it! Why?
I am sure I have done something that will speak well of my time and no one died because I needed an attitude adjustment. Go figure!!
Earthquake! Really....Really?
3.6 Magnitude earthquake rattles Prescott area jolt felt in Cottonwood.
Tuesday 10/25/11 11:20am. (AZ Republic)
I am Heading there on FRIDAY
I wonder.....is this just God trying to tell me that I should not look for peace and calm anywhere....
OR
Is this the earth shaking I have been looking for??????
YOU HAVE TO WONDER!!!
(See My life is a comedy! Feel Free To Laugh!)
Tuesday 10/25/11 11:20am. (AZ Republic)
I am Heading there on FRIDAY
I wonder.....is this just God trying to tell me that I should not look for peace and calm anywhere....
OR
Is this the earth shaking I have been looking for??????
YOU HAVE TO WONDER!!!
(See My life is a comedy! Feel Free To Laugh!)
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Listening to our feelings
Feelings, I believe, are your spirit communicating with the physical, worldly side of us.
Like when you get an uncomfortable feeling around someone, or a peaceful feeling in a sacred place.
The way we get emotional over things that are so important to us.
I taught my youngest to listen to what her spirit is saying to her. About a year ago we had gone to a hardware store. As we were parking, a couple of men parked next to her side of the car. They were rough and scary looking. She was afraid to get near them. She kept her eyes on me and hesitated. I motioned for her to come to me, and I smiled and walked to her. We talked about how she felt and what it told her. Then as we were walking through the store, we walked past a family. The family was sweet and warm, and happy. I asked my daughter how that family made her feel. We talked about the difference in feelings and what the feelings told her. We talked about how we need to learn to listen to the feelings we get. How we need to learn to react to the feelings and not take time to analyze. Because those feelings we get can save us from disaster.
I believe we need to learn to listen to the feelings, they will help us along our path.
I remember as a teen I would get this feeling when I went to certain peoples homes.(I baby sat at these homes in high school.) It was a feeling I had never felt before. After a while, I came to realize that the feeling was HOME. I hadn't felt that feeling of belonging, love, peace, and happy before that. Where you could be yourself, where you were welcome and you are wanted. I got a glimpse of this feeling every now and then. When I moved in with my foster family, I was immersed in this feeling. And I flourished. But the next stage in my life, I searched for that feeling again. Every so often I would get a fast and fleeting feeling that reminded me. But I longed to have it all the time.
I can say now that I have acquired that feeling all the time. Not only is it in my home, but it is in me. I am happy where I am, with who I am. I am listening to what I feel and what is around me. I know that I need to listen to my feelings when it comes to the people I am putting in my life and how they make me feel. Do I have all the things I have wanted, or that I think I need? No, but for the first time in my life, I think I am truly happy. Life feels right.
The other day my son said, "Mom, it doesn't matter where we are, when we are together it feels like home."
I agree!
Monday, October 24, 2011
Sunday, October 23, 2011
The next chapter....
As my children get older and their social lives expand, my role as Mom is changing. I have played the maternal role for 25 years. I have always had little kids in my home. And now, for the first time I only have teens and young adults. They have plans and dates and schedules to keep. They dont want to hang out with mom as they use to. They have lives. Two of mine are older than I was when I started this career. Yet I still don't feel any older.
I adore my children, not just the ones I gave birth to but also the ones that have been added to my family. They all have a place in my heart. I not only love them but I like them also. I have enjoyed watching them grow and change, learn and succeed. They delight and thrill me. They teach me things daily. I am a very very proud Mom! I like what they think, what they say, what they believe and who they are. Even when I don't agree with them, I still am proud of everything about them.
I have loved being the mom. It is the one thing in my life I hope to be remembered for. I was asked recently what my accomplishments in life have been. (I had just listened to a man tell me all the places he had been and things he had done thus far in his life. I was in awe with all he had told me. Yet as the question was asked of me, no thoughts of the places I had not been or the things I had not done came to mind.) I simply said "I have four amazing children. I have succeeded at being a mother."
The only thing greater in my mind than being a good mother, is to be a wonderful grandmother. I hope someday to get that opportunity as well!
This week my Cookie had her first weekend away with friends. She was away Wednesday through Sunday. She had a wonderful time, did new things, made new friends, went outside her comfort zone. It was a great experience for her. My son had dates to go on, movies to see, dinners to be enjoyed. He had his senior photos taken. He even helped his dad work on his car. He did spend part of this Sunday with me. But the facts are.... my children are growing up. My role is changing.
I have the opportunity to do things I want to do, go places I want to go, and I get to find new people to share my time with. Although that sounds amazing, it is so totally outside what I have done all my adult life. Outside my comfort zone. Don't get me wrong....I like being a priority. But it is all new to me.
So here is to the next chapter in my life.
I adore my children, not just the ones I gave birth to but also the ones that have been added to my family. They all have a place in my heart. I not only love them but I like them also. I have enjoyed watching them grow and change, learn and succeed. They delight and thrill me. They teach me things daily. I am a very very proud Mom! I like what they think, what they say, what they believe and who they are. Even when I don't agree with them, I still am proud of everything about them.
I have loved being the mom. It is the one thing in my life I hope to be remembered for. I was asked recently what my accomplishments in life have been. (I had just listened to a man tell me all the places he had been and things he had done thus far in his life. I was in awe with all he had told me. Yet as the question was asked of me, no thoughts of the places I had not been or the things I had not done came to mind.) I simply said "I have four amazing children. I have succeeded at being a mother."
The only thing greater in my mind than being a good mother, is to be a wonderful grandmother. I hope someday to get that opportunity as well!
This week my Cookie had her first weekend away with friends. She was away Wednesday through Sunday. She had a wonderful time, did new things, made new friends, went outside her comfort zone. It was a great experience for her. My son had dates to go on, movies to see, dinners to be enjoyed. He had his senior photos taken. He even helped his dad work on his car. He did spend part of this Sunday with me. But the facts are.... my children are growing up. My role is changing.
I have the opportunity to do things I want to do, go places I want to go, and I get to find new people to share my time with. Although that sounds amazing, it is so totally outside what I have done all my adult life. Outside my comfort zone. Don't get me wrong....I like being a priority. But it is all new to me.
So here is to the next chapter in my life.
Quote of the Day
The longer I live the more my mind dwells upon the beauty and wonder of the world… I have loved the feel of the grass under my feet, and the sound of the running streams by my side. The hum of the wind in the treetops has always been good music to me, and the face of the fields has often comforted me more than the faces of men.
I am in love with this world...I have tilled its soil, I have gathered its harvest, I have waited upon its seasons, and always have I reaped what I have sown.
I have climbed its mountains, roamed its forests, sailed its waters, crossed its deserts, felt the sting of its frosts, the oppression of its heats, the drench of its rains, the fury of its winds, and always have beauty and joy waited upon my goings and comings.
by: John Burroughs
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Whole living means...Finding pockets of time to devote to things that make you feel spiritually, physically and emotionally balanced. Jessica Seinfeld
Perhaps I just need to refocus the time I have to ensure balance...I will try!
Perhaps I just need to refocus the time I have to ensure balance...I will try!
MargaritaVille
I went to "MargaritaVille" for dinner tonight.
No, not the nightclub, but a cozy, fun, come as you are establishment.
Where the people are real and delightful.
Where the food is good and the conversation flows from one topic to another.
There was great story telling and great laughter!
I fell in love with the Fat Man and his Wife!!
I want what they have achieved in 40 some years of marriage.
I love MargaritaVille!!!
Friday, October 21, 2011
5 & Diner
Took the kids to dinner last week! They are, by far, some of the funnest dinner dates ever!!!
My Daughter....The Author
My kids are delightful!
(When I was younger I wrote stories also. I never did anything with them. I have written some things in the past year. I like them, but not for sharing. I think I would like to write a children's book someday, maybe the stories I told my kids when they were small. I think I would also like to write a book on the things I have learned in life. It could be marketed as a comedy!!!)
Amazing Grace
I have been watching inspirational movies lately.This one is no different. It is historical, inspirational
and awe inspiring. The power of good, of love, of
passion for your beliefs and convictions.The need to make the world a better place. It made me want to learn more. It made me cry.
I loved this movie and highly recommend it!http://www.imdb.com/video/screenplay/vi330694937/
Thank You For The Perfect Breakfast
A slice of bread from Kristan (who has always showed me just what I truly have wanted in life), homemade strawberry jam from Suzi (who has always showed me how pure and sweet each day can be)
and a calm heart from a friend.
I thank you all!
I thank you all!
A Treat....
Amy and Mark made Bread Cake last night. I think it is the same as bread pudding. ( She learned it from her Grandmother) It was delicious.
But the true treat was the two cute kids in my kitchen! Always a TREAT!
Sunday, October 16, 2011
My Phone
I can not even imagine my life with out my cell phone.
This morning I have already had whole conversations with a dear friend and my daughter over text.
I am still in bed, I haven't spoken to anyone other than my dog and she is not offended at my morning breath. I love that I can update my children, view their happenings, send mass info to all, surf the net, read email, a book or watch a movie, blog, and even talk face to face with someone far away, all from my iPhone. I love that I can talk to anyone at anytime. I love that the text conversation is recorded so I can go back and find information that was given to me. I will admit that I am guilty of sending text to the wrong recipient. I did that again just this morning. Know me, love me! My phone is the first thing I touch in the morning and the last thing I touch at night!
I do have an iPhone fetish. I admit it, and embrace it. I LOVE my phone....the Guru was right, again!
But gosh darn that auto correct!!!!
This morning I have already had whole conversations with a dear friend and my daughter over text.
I am still in bed, I haven't spoken to anyone other than my dog and she is not offended at my morning breath. I love that I can update my children, view their happenings, send mass info to all, surf the net, read email, a book or watch a movie, blog, and even talk face to face with someone far away, all from my iPhone. I love that I can talk to anyone at anytime. I love that the text conversation is recorded so I can go back and find information that was given to me. I will admit that I am guilty of sending text to the wrong recipient. I did that again just this morning. Know me, love me! My phone is the first thing I touch in the morning and the last thing I touch at night!
I do have an iPhone fetish. I admit it, and embrace it. I LOVE my phone....the Guru was right, again!
But gosh darn that auto correct!!!!
Beauty is a vital nutrient
Beauty can inspire, relax, transport away from the daily grind, and make you more productive.
Saturday, October 15, 2011
The Ultimate Gift
I watched this movie today...I have seen it before. It is long, but powerful. I cried, again. But it is so inspiring.
Lessons to be learned...over and over again!
It is from the book 'The Ultimate Gift' by Jim Stovall
The lessons it teaches are...
The final song is amazing also 'Legacy' written by Kelly Morrison Preformed by Ed Goggin
Lessons to be learned...over and over again!
It is from the book 'The Ultimate Gift' by Jim Stovall
The lessons it teaches are...
The Gift of Work The Gift of Laughter
The Gift of Money The Gift of Dreams
The Gift of Friends The Gift of Giving
The Gift of Learning The Gift of Gratitude
The Gift of Problems The Gift of a Perfect Day
The Gift of Family The Gift of Love
The final song is amazing also 'Legacy' written by Kelly Morrison Preformed by Ed Goggin
Last night I went to Octoberfest at a friends church. It is the second year in a row, so I guess I can claim this as a tradition! I liked the band, and all the fair activities.
I enjoyed evening, I enjoyed those I was with!
I woke up this morning at about 5am, to the dog sweetly asking for attention. I went into the kitchen to get a drink of water (it's almost 7:30 now and I have yet to get that water).
Instead I opted to be domestic. I have bread sticks rising in the oven and beef stew started in the crockpot. I ground flour from oats, rice and whole wheat, and labeled it. I am attempting a recipe for Texas Road House rolls as well. And I think I have enough all purpose flour to attempt beer batter bread also....and yes I do have the can of beer for just this occasion.
My house is perfectly clean, and all the laundry is washed and put away. I need to make my bed and go get the oil changed in the car this morning. While I am out I will get more flour, so I can make White Chocolate, Pecan Cookies again. They are yummy cookies! A friend is coming over to take a peek at the funny thing the car is doing. He is a great man!!
I plan on going to the car show, out at Scottsdale Pavilions tonight. I hope to enjoy all those wonderful classics with my friend who is also a true enthusiast at heart. It looks to be a fun night!
On Thursday I saw my 'Sister/Cousins' (no cult thing by the way, just old fashioned fate and family bringing us together)...it had been far too long since I had joined them for Girls Night In. We made cute girl food and one of us got totally toasted! We chatted about all that we had been doing since we had been together last, and what our next steps are. We shared updated life paths and directions we hope to go in. I love these women. As we chatted, I came to the realization as I did again this morning (as I sit here in my kitchen in just a tshirt and apron, with flour all over me), my goals in life are simple.
My wants are basic. My hope is to add a man to my life who wants the same things. Who wants a woman who likes to play house. Because that's what I want. . . the happy home, the fun, the domestic tranquility and the comfortable adventure. I'm not looking for a ring on my finger, just a hand to hold.
Bread sticks are out of the oven! They look perfect! Here is to a wonderful weekend!!!
http://eatcakefordinner.blogspot.com/2011/04/texas-roadhouse-rolls-copycat-recipe.html
http://www.azcentral.com/thingstodo/events/The_Scottsdale_Pavilions_Car_Show_934500443221
http://fullbellies.blogspot.com/2011/05/homemade-olive-garden-bread-sticks.html
I enjoyed evening, I enjoyed those I was with!
I woke up this morning at about 5am, to the dog sweetly asking for attention. I went into the kitchen to get a drink of water (it's almost 7:30 now and I have yet to get that water).
Instead I opted to be domestic. I have bread sticks rising in the oven and beef stew started in the crockpot. I ground flour from oats, rice and whole wheat, and labeled it. I am attempting a recipe for Texas Road House rolls as well. And I think I have enough all purpose flour to attempt beer batter bread also....and yes I do have the can of beer for just this occasion.
My house is perfectly clean, and all the laundry is washed and put away. I need to make my bed and go get the oil changed in the car this morning. While I am out I will get more flour, so I can make White Chocolate, Pecan Cookies again. They are yummy cookies! A friend is coming over to take a peek at the funny thing the car is doing. He is a great man!!
I plan on going to the car show, out at Scottsdale Pavilions tonight. I hope to enjoy all those wonderful classics with my friend who is also a true enthusiast at heart. It looks to be a fun night!
On Thursday I saw my 'Sister/Cousins' (no cult thing by the way, just old fashioned fate and family bringing us together)...it had been far too long since I had joined them for Girls Night In. We made cute girl food and one of us got totally toasted! We chatted about all that we had been doing since we had been together last, and what our next steps are. We shared updated life paths and directions we hope to go in. I love these women. As we chatted, I came to the realization as I did again this morning (as I sit here in my kitchen in just a tshirt and apron, with flour all over me), my goals in life are simple.
My wants are basic. My hope is to add a man to my life who wants the same things. Who wants a woman who likes to play house. Because that's what I want. . . the happy home, the fun, the domestic tranquility and the comfortable adventure. I'm not looking for a ring on my finger, just a hand to hold.
Bread sticks are out of the oven! They look perfect! Here is to a wonderful weekend!!!
http://eatcakefordinner.blogspot.com/2011/04/texas-roadhouse-rolls-copycat-recipe.html
http://www.azcentral.com/thingstodo/events/The_Scottsdale_Pavilions_Car_Show_934500443221
The Shortest Member Of The Band
I went to Octobefest with some friends tonight. There was a great band there; they played a wide range of music. My favorite part of the band had to be the shortest member. He may have been five, but I would bet anything he was four! His guitar was just the right size for his little self and the boy had rythem! He was darling!!
Friday, October 14, 2011
Facing Your Challenges Head On
Sometimes we are faced with things we have no choice in. So we take care of them. They give us experience and confidence for the next challenge along the path. As teens we start to take on these encounters with life. As parents we watch and pray, guide and nudge. As adults we breath deeply and take that step on our own. These are life lessons.... part of "Life 101".
But I think it takes something more to face our weaknesses and personal challenges in the same manner. I have listened to a couple of people in the last week, tell their story of facing, head on, their own personal short comings.
I was amazed and in awe at the level they went to, the steps they took, to overcome their handicaps. I was so very impressed. The desire to overcome, to improve, to move past and start enjoying was so powerful, that they moved their mountain.
One of these people told me of his fear of heights. How he had felt he had no personal control over this area in his life. So he went sky diving. Not only did he do this horrifying thing, but he repeated it numerous times. Each time there was an issue, making this scary event so much more terrifying to him. Yet, the desire was there to be in control of this area of his self confidence. He said that each time was still scary, but he grew less afraid and more self confident. The process took him a few years. But once he reached the point that he could truly laugh as he jumped, he no longer felt like out of control or like tempting fate any longer. He is an old man now and has a tough time going up a ladder because he now has vertigo. Ironic I suppose. I was very impressed with his story. He was delightful!
The other story is very different, I think I listened to it with my jaw hanging open. Again, steps were taken to improve self, conquer weaknesses, face fears. After listening to this story it made me take a good look at self improvement and desire to have confidence in every aspect in my own life. I believe both these people were put in my life for such a brief periods to teach me this, to inspire me. I am grateful!
Taking charge of your life starts with the desire to improve. I think there is freedom in that.
(If you want to know the rest of the second story you will have to ask me. It's not G-Rated, so I'm not blogging it, but wahoo, What An Adventure!)
But I think it takes something more to face our weaknesses and personal challenges in the same manner. I have listened to a couple of people in the last week, tell their story of facing, head on, their own personal short comings.
I was amazed and in awe at the level they went to, the steps they took, to overcome their handicaps. I was so very impressed. The desire to overcome, to improve, to move past and start enjoying was so powerful, that they moved their mountain.
One of these people told me of his fear of heights. How he had felt he had no personal control over this area in his life. So he went sky diving. Not only did he do this horrifying thing, but he repeated it numerous times. Each time there was an issue, making this scary event so much more terrifying to him. Yet, the desire was there to be in control of this area of his self confidence. He said that each time was still scary, but he grew less afraid and more self confident. The process took him a few years. But once he reached the point that he could truly laugh as he jumped, he no longer felt like out of control or like tempting fate any longer. He is an old man now and has a tough time going up a ladder because he now has vertigo. Ironic I suppose. I was very impressed with his story. He was delightful!
The other story is very different, I think I listened to it with my jaw hanging open. Again, steps were taken to improve self, conquer weaknesses, face fears. After listening to this story it made me take a good look at self improvement and desire to have confidence in every aspect in my own life. I believe both these people were put in my life for such a brief periods to teach me this, to inspire me. I am grateful!
Taking charge of your life starts with the desire to improve. I think there is freedom in that.
(If you want to know the rest of the second story you will have to ask me. It's not G-Rated, so I'm not blogging it, but wahoo, What An Adventure!)
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Monday, October 10, 2011
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Listening to the moment....
I have spent most of my life trying to out run my past and trying to catch up to my future. Never feeling like I was were I needed to be. Always feeling as though I was a bit lost, but that my good intentions and aim for my future were pointing me toward the right direction.
Once in a while, I believe that there are moments when clarity, reality and peace all come together. And if you don't stop and have that 'out of body' moment; to listen, to think, to ponder, to take a good evaluating look around, you will miss the opportunity to take a fresh step forward.
I am in one of those moments right now.
A situation in my life, that I have felt was vital, just became less. At the same time I realized that I am truly happy where I am and with me. I feel such a love for those in my life right now (could I have felt this love and peace had I not gone through this vital moment...no I don't think so; again growing pains can bring about great progress). I have also been confronted with questions I had to answer about me and my life, that could only be answered by me....and I was speechless.
This caused me to look closer. To step outside myself, to listen, to think, to ponder and to take that good evaluating look around my life. Not at what I was or what I did or what I thought I had wanted. Not at what my long range goals are or at my big picture. Just at where I am, who I am, what I am doing and what I want right now. I wrote it all down. I didn't think before I wrote, I just wrote what was in my heart. I was very surprised and overwhelmingly delighted with what I had written. Almost like for the first time ever, my spirit, body and mind all got a glimpse of me at the same time. And I cried. What is on this piece of paper is honest, it's for me alone to see. It is plain, just short brief answers. It is clear, no hidden pieces to come back to, just facts and feelings right now. Have you ever listened to someone speak or tell things about you? And you get to see a side of you that others see, from a point of view that you maybe don't see from. I saw that in me. For the first time in my life I felt totally connected with me. I saw where I am, who I am, what I am doing and what I want for right now.
And I like what I saw.
I am grateful to each of my four children, for the interaction I have had with them this week. Small and simple perhaps, but insightful, both into their lives and also into my own. I am grateful for my dear friends. Those I associate with daily, for their love and support, and also for their sassy attitudes and ability to move forward through the adversity they face. I am grateful for friends that I have had forever (or maybe it just feels like forever). For their ability to show me that life is the same and wonderful, as it changes. They are grounded to what they are, and I love that about them. They show me that as life changes, life still goes on, and we can adapt and change with it, without losing who we are or what we want out of it. I am grateful to new friends who are showing me new things, teaching me that life has variety and options, even though we are all looking for the same things. That sometimes doing and viewing from a different vantage point can make all the difference, adding that spice in life we crave.
Do I know what I want out of life? Yes I think I do. I want to be a happy.
Once in a while, I believe that there are moments when clarity, reality and peace all come together. And if you don't stop and have that 'out of body' moment; to listen, to think, to ponder, to take a good evaluating look around, you will miss the opportunity to take a fresh step forward.
I am in one of those moments right now.
A situation in my life, that I have felt was vital, just became less. At the same time I realized that I am truly happy where I am and with me. I feel such a love for those in my life right now (could I have felt this love and peace had I not gone through this vital moment...no I don't think so; again growing pains can bring about great progress). I have also been confronted with questions I had to answer about me and my life, that could only be answered by me....and I was speechless.
This caused me to look closer. To step outside myself, to listen, to think, to ponder and to take that good evaluating look around my life. Not at what I was or what I did or what I thought I had wanted. Not at what my long range goals are or at my big picture. Just at where I am, who I am, what I am doing and what I want right now. I wrote it all down. I didn't think before I wrote, I just wrote what was in my heart. I was very surprised and overwhelmingly delighted with what I had written. Almost like for the first time ever, my spirit, body and mind all got a glimpse of me at the same time. And I cried. What is on this piece of paper is honest, it's for me alone to see. It is plain, just short brief answers. It is clear, no hidden pieces to come back to, just facts and feelings right now. Have you ever listened to someone speak or tell things about you? And you get to see a side of you that others see, from a point of view that you maybe don't see from. I saw that in me. For the first time in my life I felt totally connected with me. I saw where I am, who I am, what I am doing and what I want for right now.
And I like what I saw.
I am grateful to each of my four children, for the interaction I have had with them this week. Small and simple perhaps, but insightful, both into their lives and also into my own. I am grateful for my dear friends. Those I associate with daily, for their love and support, and also for their sassy attitudes and ability to move forward through the adversity they face. I am grateful for friends that I have had forever (or maybe it just feels like forever). For their ability to show me that life is the same and wonderful, as it changes. They are grounded to what they are, and I love that about them. They show me that as life changes, life still goes on, and we can adapt and change with it, without losing who we are or what we want out of it. I am grateful to new friends who are showing me new things, teaching me that life has variety and options, even though we are all looking for the same things. That sometimes doing and viewing from a different vantage point can make all the difference, adding that spice in life we crave.
Do I know what I want out of life? Yes I think I do. I want to be a happy.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
2AM
I love listening to the wind in the trees and the soft beautiful sound of the wind chimes. I have my window open and it's chilly. It sounds perfect and feels perfect. As a little girl I always wanted to live somewhere with lots of trees and green, I always wanted there to be a creek nearby. All the sights and sounds were so wonderful to me. One of my favorite places is Oak Creek Canyon. It's as close to heaven as I have ever been. Look it up! I want to show it to you.
I have one tree, it's my neighbors. I want a forest!
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Lock Down At The Harbor
My Cookie stayed after school today to hang out with friends (I miss her being little enough to still call it a play date). Her one friend's mom is a teacher at the school. So my daughters group of friends gets to hang out and have the run of the school, until teacher stuff is finished.
Today, I got home late, I had a ortho appointment right after work. I forgot that she had plans with her dad and needed to be home at 4pm. So as soon as I realized it I called to her. At that time I found out that all the kids who had stayed at school where stuck there. The school was in a lock down. I chatted with her for a few minutes. Calmed her. Someone had been seen a man with a gun in the neighborhood. And when that was reported, the school went into lock down. All after school program kids, all after school sports kids, all after school kids where brought in and could not leave. So I let her know she was in the safest place and she would be fine.
I live less than two blocks from the school. I can hear the announcements from home. I should have worried about this gun man that was on the lose. I did hear the helicopters right over head. But gosh darn the the weather is so great today. So I opened all the doors and windows and figured if this mad man picked my home to socialize at, my 8 pound ferocious dog would protect me! After all, I know that lock down is just protocol, and that if we were in true harm then someone would have all the kids on my block head home too.
When I got the call from the school an hour later, I went to get Cookie. I drove, although walking might take 5 whole minutes, in slow motion. All the kids where in one hall, each parent had to sign there own out. I got to see some parents I just never get to see anymore, some teachers I love too. We went home and my daughter headed for her afternoon with her dad.
I am grateful that the school and the police department take good care of our kids. I am thankful for great teachers and friends that add to my children's lives. I am so grateful for our ginormous guard dog too. And so very thankful for the perfect weather we enjoyed for this nifty learning experience.
(When Cookie left to go with her dad, she made sure I locked the front screen door. So I did. She said she wanted to know I was safe. I didn't tell here that every window was open and the back screen door doesn't even have a lock. After all.....I have Fido to keep me safe!)
Today, I got home late, I had a ortho appointment right after work. I forgot that she had plans with her dad and needed to be home at 4pm. So as soon as I realized it I called to her. At that time I found out that all the kids who had stayed at school where stuck there. The school was in a lock down. I chatted with her for a few minutes. Calmed her. Someone had been seen a man with a gun in the neighborhood. And when that was reported, the school went into lock down. All after school program kids, all after school sports kids, all after school kids where brought in and could not leave. So I let her know she was in the safest place and she would be fine.
I live less than two blocks from the school. I can hear the announcements from home. I should have worried about this gun man that was on the lose. I did hear the helicopters right over head. But gosh darn the the weather is so great today. So I opened all the doors and windows and figured if this mad man picked my home to socialize at, my 8 pound ferocious dog would protect me! After all, I know that lock down is just protocol, and that if we were in true harm then someone would have all the kids on my block head home too.
When I got the call from the school an hour later, I went to get Cookie. I drove, although walking might take 5 whole minutes, in slow motion. All the kids where in one hall, each parent had to sign there own out. I got to see some parents I just never get to see anymore, some teachers I love too. We went home and my daughter headed for her afternoon with her dad.
I am grateful that the school and the police department take good care of our kids. I am thankful for great teachers and friends that add to my children's lives. I am so grateful for our ginormous guard dog too. And so very thankful for the perfect weather we enjoyed for this nifty learning experience.
(When Cookie left to go with her dad, she made sure I locked the front screen door. So I did. She said she wanted to know I was safe. I didn't tell here that every window was open and the back screen door doesn't even have a lock. After all.....I have Fido to keep me safe!)
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
This Week I Will Cook....(No Guarantee For Next Week Though!)
This Weeks Menu
M- Chili w/Corn Cheddar Biscuits
T- Beef Stroganoff
W- Leftovers
TH- Gnocchi and Cheese
F- Swedish Meatballs
S- Nachos
S- Chicken Pot Pie
MAGIC
This was a perfect rainbow,
from my front yard.
from my front yard.
Now I am out on my patio, and
the rain is pouring and the temperature is dropping!!
You can't tell me that Awesome Weather isn't Magic!!!
October Family To Do List
Decorate for Fall/Halloween
Go to Prescott To See Fall
Go to a Corn Maze
Make Homemade Funnel Cakes
Go on a hike
Have a Halloween PartyGo to the October Fest With Friends
Decorate Pumpkins
Do a Halloween Craft
Make Pumpkin Pies
Make treat bags and Deliver
Read Little Ghosties Together
Pick Halloween Costumes
Go Trick-or-Treating
Make Homemade Soup
Bake Bread
Fly a Kite
Fly a Kite
Make a "Thankful for" tree
Open All The Windows And Let Fall In
Have Fun!!!
Quote of the Day
"Is there one general thing that works for everyone?"
"Yes, 'Figuring out what you want', and 'Asking for it'!"
Very hard things to do.
"Yes, 'Figuring out what you want', and 'Asking for it'!"
Very hard things to do.
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Day For Baking
Today I Will Be Baking!
Baking is not my best skill, but, as they say
"You only get better with practice".
So today I have a nice little bakery list ready to attack.
Not sure how much will get accomplished,
but I have the time and the ingredients,
so I may as well get this started.
so I may as well get this started.
(I don't think is really matters that
I am still in my nighty and bare feet,
I did put an apron on !!!)
I am still in my nighty and bare feet,
I did put an apron on !!!)
- Chocolate Chip Cookies (Note: Save some dough to take to Kyle)
- Peach Cobbler (one of my favorites)
- Apple Crisp
- Rustic Italian Crusty Bread
- Peanut Butter Cookies
- Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
- Cheddar Biscuits
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Captures Your Heart!
When the kids have brought home someone they like,
I have also fallen into 'like' with them.
But with Amy....it was 'love'.
She is DELIGHTFUL!
Amy and Mark Very Best Friends
 |
| Dance Lessons In the Living Room |
Pardon the language, but Mr. Tupac does have a point!
 |
| Pardon the language, but Mr. Tupac does have a point! Leave the pieces and move on! |
Giving
Giving is something I feel is part of both love and service. The opportunities for giving is all around us. I know that I need to be more aware. Giving a smile, remembering a need, doing a small kindness; these things are all effortless, and should be done constantly. Doing so will touch others, but also will make the giver happy, lower our stress, improve our physical being and draw others to us. I have this need to give, but I often have issues with receiving. Remembering to let others serve is something I need to learn to be gracious at. Accepting love and service should come as freely as serving others, as service should be given as easily as receiving.
~Giving to others can be the most powerful thing we can do for ourselves.
~We should approach gift giving as an opportunity to honor the people we really love.
~By accepting gifts from others we share our strength.
~Service to others should be given out of love, only then is it truly service and not obligation.
~Kindness is something we are each born with, but if we don't practice giving and receiving it daily we will lose that attribute.
~By sharing what you know with others we will learn the lessons we are in need of learning.
~Simply being present and taking part are often the most valuable gifts we can give.
~Sharing what we have unconditionally, will increase abundance for both.
~Take time to be thoughtful and considerate is often the greatest of contributions.
~The right gift does not need to be grand and showy, but simple and well thought.
whole living body+soul in balance
~Giving to others can be the most powerful thing we can do for ourselves.
~We should approach gift giving as an opportunity to honor the people we really love.
~By accepting gifts from others we share our strength.
~Service to others should be given out of love, only then is it truly service and not obligation.
~Kindness is something we are each born with, but if we don't practice giving and receiving it daily we will lose that attribute.
~By sharing what you know with others we will learn the lessons we are in need of learning.
~Simply being present and taking part are often the most valuable gifts we can give.
~Sharing what we have unconditionally, will increase abundance for both.
~Take time to be thoughtful and considerate is often the greatest of contributions.
~The right gift does not need to be grand and showy, but simple and well thought.
whole living body+soul in balance
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)