***See EDIT at bottom***
So, it's Tuesday...not to crazy of a day, just another day...
But, today was positively wonderful. Pourquoi? Because, my dear ones, I was blessed to have an absolutely delightful lunch date with Miss Susie. Miss Susie is one of my greatest role models when it comes to living as a woman of God. She teaches the Reflections class at my church, and taught me when the same class when I was in high school. Reflections is, in a way, and for lack of a better term, a "charm course" for young women growing up in faith. It teaches girls to see themselves as daughters of the King, and to love the qualities and gifts He has given us as individuals. It also teaches how to act and present yourself as a poised and appropriate lady, when it comes to dress, hygiene, make-up, and some basic home presentation tips, as well. It's quite a rigorous course, but a lot of fun and a great period of learning - and Miss Susie has a wonderful gift that allows her to relate to junior high and high school aged girls. Anyways, I absolutely adore this woman and respect her more than I can describe to you here. She and I have been trying to get together to have a lunch/coffee date for the last 5 years or so...we finally did it! We went to Chuy's...yumm :) We talked and talked and talked, for a good two hours or so. It was so wonderful! We talked about some trials we've had, joys, "plans," and general chit-chat and catching up - it's hard to really catch up when you only have a few minutes here and there on Sundays/Wednesdays. Pure joy to simply visit with her.
Oh my gosh. Did anyone see Live! with Regis and Kelly today? Martin Short was co-hosting with Kelly and, wow - it was probably one of my favorite episodes of that show. I'm almost tempted to say Mr. Short should be Kelly's new co-host! Ok...I know that's asking a lot, and I do adore Regis, but Martin was so funny, yo! For example, they were discussing reality TV and Martin says this: I get bored with the celebration of ignorance...read a book. Brilliant; my thoughts exactly, Mr. Short!! How awesome that he said that, though! I was beaming with agreement.
I got to read more this afternoon and took a 2.5hr nap...I use that term loosely, for it was quite noisy in my house...my dad is loud :/ But it was still nice to just lay. I was super tired for some reason.
Tonight we had a committee meeting for the youth group's Valentine's Day Dinner Fundraiser thing-a-ma-bobber...I like being able to help out and it's nice to be treated as and thought of as an adult in the congregation that I "grew-up" in. After our little meeting it was down the hall to Bible study - we finished the book of Esther! Next week we decided we are going to start working our way through I Samuel - yay! One of my favorites.
And that, lovelies, was pretty much my day. Oh! One more thing before I forget: for all you crafty/nesty readers, take a gander at Nesting Place's newest blog. She has an awesome give-away going on, and if you don't like what she has up for grabs the website she's partnered with for this one is AwEsOmE!! Super great deals for scrapbooking/crafting/nesting in general :)
***EDIT: So...I goofed last night and totally left out about half of my shout-out paragraph...woops! The site with the scrapbooky stuff giveaway is The Idea Room, Nesting Place was a Daysprings giveaway, equally as awesome, I just totally left out the part about The Idea Room which was to correspond with the awesome site peachycheap.com, which has all the scrapbooking steals. So, there ya go...my baaad!***
With that, I'm off. Nighty-night.
Shalom,
~MW
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Monday, January 25, 2010
A full day...
Hello all and a happy Monday to each and every one of you! Why yes, yes I did have a delightful Monday...whaaaa? How is this possible??? I was ÜBER productive!!
So, today, I woke up in a cheery, though slightly groggy, mood and took the wee ones to school. There was actually a thin layer of ice on the windshield this morning! Wasn't exactly expecting that, but living about 5-10min away from the boyos' school makes such pleasant/un-pleasant surprises not so big-a-deal. Faja happened to be home still, so he was gracious enough to pour the cold water across the windows for me. Thanks Faja! Well, the boys got off on a good foot and then it was home for me to make something of my day. I spent some time on the internets perusing my bloggy friends' recent events, crafty ideas, menus for the week, etc...I hadn't spent a good chunk of time catching up on blog stuffs in a while, so it was quite delightful. After my ease into my day...I hit the ground running.
The list for the day:
- Dust and wipe down all of the fans downstairs
- Scrub down the kitchen & wash the dishes
- Scrub and oil the kitchen table
- Sweep
- Attempt to fix the funkified couch cushions
- Clean "my" bathroom
- Run some laundry
I am VERY happy to say that I completed all of the above by 2pm. I even had time to shower and shave my legs!! Yeah, I was pretty satisfied with my day and so spent the rest of my afternoon reading away...glorious joy. Another plus from today was that the weather was absolutely gorgeous! Therefore, my dear readers, I got to leave the door open ALL DAY LONG...I love days like this when I can infuse "my" home with the crisp cool air of the great outdoors - heavenly. The critters enjoyed the freedom to go in and out as they pleased as well. The kitties even ventured out into the backyard a little bit.
Take a look at just one of the fans I cleaned today...and this one is right off the kitchen so the dust was basically glued on, due to all of the oily grease from frying things in the kitchen...yummm...
During my morning productivity I was afforded a little break time in which I played outside with the puppy-dogs. Look at these cute little pups!
I also did some very basic photoshop playing today...obviously =)
Well, all, it's time to settle down for an evening of LOST with the wee ones. Hope you all had a blessed Monday!
Shalom,
~MW
So, today, I woke up in a cheery, though slightly groggy, mood and took the wee ones to school. There was actually a thin layer of ice on the windshield this morning! Wasn't exactly expecting that, but living about 5-10min away from the boyos' school makes such pleasant/un-pleasant surprises not so big-a-deal. Faja happened to be home still, so he was gracious enough to pour the cold water across the windows for me. Thanks Faja! Well, the boys got off on a good foot and then it was home for me to make something of my day. I spent some time on the internets perusing my bloggy friends' recent events, crafty ideas, menus for the week, etc...I hadn't spent a good chunk of time catching up on blog stuffs in a while, so it was quite delightful. After my ease into my day...I hit the ground running.
The list for the day:
- Dust and wipe down all of the fans downstairs
- Scrub down the kitchen & wash the dishes
- Scrub and oil the kitchen table
- Sweep
- Attempt to fix the funkified couch cushions
- Clean "my" bathroom
- Run some laundry
I am VERY happy to say that I completed all of the above by 2pm. I even had time to shower and shave my legs!! Yeah, I was pretty satisfied with my day and so spent the rest of my afternoon reading away...glorious joy. Another plus from today was that the weather was absolutely gorgeous! Therefore, my dear readers, I got to leave the door open ALL DAY LONG...I love days like this when I can infuse "my" home with the crisp cool air of the great outdoors - heavenly. The critters enjoyed the freedom to go in and out as they pleased as well. The kitties even ventured out into the backyard a little bit.
Take a look at just one of the fans I cleaned today...and this one is right off the kitchen so the dust was basically glued on, due to all of the oily grease from frying things in the kitchen...yummm...
During my morning productivity I was afforded a little break time in which I played outside with the puppy-dogs. Look at these cute little pups!
The kitties also enjoyed some playtime today...oh how they make me laugh.
I also did some very basic photoshop playing today...obviously =)
Well, all, it's time to settle down for an evening of LOST with the wee ones. Hope you all had a blessed Monday!
Shalom,
~MW
Friday, January 22, 2010
Friday! Friday! Tonight I'll party with my friends!
...Ok...so by friends I mean the wee ones, but it's all good - we're friends too :)
So, since Christmas the wee ones and I have been trying to complete all 5 seasons of LOST to prepare for the start of season 6 - all of our questions will finally be answered! {We hope...}
On that note I need to thank whoever sets the dates for when my favorite TV shows start back up, because starting LOST, the final season, on my bday is the BEST birthday present EvEr!!! So, thanks guys/gals! You're the best.
Anyways, when the boyos get home from school today we will begin the final push. We missed a week of watching while I was down in CS, so we are slightly behind...just slightly. But, we are almost half-way through season 3 and should get beyond that point tonight. We plan to watch LOST all weekend long, in and around our other activities. Like my shopping extravaganza with 'Chuck' and hopefully 'Rose', as well. BUT! We will finish the previous seasons by Feb 2 - we have no other option but to succeed in this...or else...well, we will just be failures...and a poor excuse for LOST fans. This would bring the utmost shame to our heads and family name...the utmost.
Ok, enough dramatics for today! On to other things.
Isn't it amazing how no matter what you are doing in any given season of your life Fridays are still that light at the end of the tunnel? I was thinking about this last night (of course, while watching LOST with the wee ones), and had to chuckle to myself: I don't do any kind of strenuous activity right now, I don't have a job that I hate (or even one that I enjoy - Fridays are still like gold then), I'm not in classes, I'm just tottering along doing whatever, whenever and yet, I still look forward to Friday with as much hope and excitement as if I were working or in school...maybe it's because I know I will get to spend more than a few rushed hours in the evenings with my little brothers... I don't really know, I just like Fridays, and think I always will, until they finally make the work week 4 days long, that is ;)
Yesterday I worked on ISD apps for subbing for 5 HOURS. 5 hours!! No joke!! {Maybe that's why I'm so excited about today...?} I don't want to look at another online application interface for like...oh, I don't know...ever! Ugh, but, they are complete, so that's a plus. I'm holding off on my AISD app, because they charge you for finger printing and some of the other districts don't. So, if I can get away with not paying for my finger printing, I will! And then I'll apply for AISD. Frugality prevails! Haha.
I also ran by James Avery yesterday to see if there was anything I could/wanted to exchange a charm for...I got a lovely ichthys charm for graduation, but it's a little bulky for my tastes and so wanted one that was little more dainty or something, but didn't really find anything that really jumped out at me. I contemplated getting a 2nd A&M charm, one that I could wear on a necklace chain (I already have one sautered on my charm bracelet)...I dunno if that's over-kill though. I was thinking it would be nice to have just the charm that I could wear whenever since I don't wear my charm bracelet all them time...but I can't decide. There was a lovely ichthys there that was kind of "swirly", meaning it had curly-ques and everything in it's design, but I just couldn't decide. Thoughts?? Suggestions??
Ok, ladies, here's a confession/question for you all: WHAT DEODORANT DO YOU USE?! For the last few months I have been sweating profusely (sorry boys...gross, I know, but whatever, such is life)...and I cannot seem to find one that keeps me at least somewhat dry...I just want a little dryness. Is that so much to ask?? Ugh, I don't even have to be doing anything and it feels like Niagara Falls under there - so not cool. My mom swears by Mitchum Clear Gel, and I've been using that to no avail...I've tried the "prescription strength" stuff, and haven't really had any luck there either. I'm a freak, I know. But, I know there have to be other people out there with the same question, so I'm going to buck-up and ask it for all of us. I am woman! {That last bit was for you Rach}
Anyways, today I plan on finishing Out of the Silent Planet. I finally finished The Road and I have to say I think I enjoyed it. I wasn't too fond of the ending, I felt it was a little lacking, but I think that was the point...did leave Cormick with room to make it into a series of some sort if he wants to, though; since he does seem to write in series/trilogies, etc. Anywho, I'm pretty behind on Harry Potter, and I still can't find the box that Redeeming Love ended up in...hmph, I am frustrated. I think once I finish Out of the Silent Planet I will hit up The Life of Pi. It's sitting in my parents' garage, so I may as well take advantage of a free book with no deadlines for return, right?? Right.
Well, all, I'm off to read my day away and maybe run some errands with my faja. Happy Friday!!
Shalom,
~MW
So, since Christmas the wee ones and I have been trying to complete all 5 seasons of LOST to prepare for the start of season 6 - all of our questions will finally be answered! {We hope...}
On that note I need to thank whoever sets the dates for when my favorite TV shows start back up, because starting LOST, the final season, on my bday is the BEST birthday present EvEr!!! So, thanks guys/gals! You're the best.
Anyways, when the boyos get home from school today we will begin the final push. We missed a week of watching while I was down in CS, so we are slightly behind...just slightly. But, we are almost half-way through season 3 and should get beyond that point tonight. We plan to watch LOST all weekend long, in and around our other activities. Like my shopping extravaganza with 'Chuck' and hopefully 'Rose', as well. BUT! We will finish the previous seasons by Feb 2 - we have no other option but to succeed in this...or else...well, we will just be failures...and a poor excuse for LOST fans. This would bring the utmost shame to our heads and family name...the utmost.
Ok, enough dramatics for today! On to other things.
Isn't it amazing how no matter what you are doing in any given season of your life Fridays are still that light at the end of the tunnel? I was thinking about this last night (of course, while watching LOST with the wee ones), and had to chuckle to myself: I don't do any kind of strenuous activity right now, I don't have a job that I hate (or even one that I enjoy - Fridays are still like gold then), I'm not in classes, I'm just tottering along doing whatever, whenever and yet, I still look forward to Friday with as much hope and excitement as if I were working or in school...maybe it's because I know I will get to spend more than a few rushed hours in the evenings with my little brothers... I don't really know, I just like Fridays, and think I always will, until they finally make the work week 4 days long, that is ;)
Yesterday I worked on ISD apps for subbing for 5 HOURS. 5 hours!! No joke!! {Maybe that's why I'm so excited about today...?} I don't want to look at another online application interface for like...oh, I don't know...ever! Ugh, but, they are complete, so that's a plus. I'm holding off on my AISD app, because they charge you for finger printing and some of the other districts don't. So, if I can get away with not paying for my finger printing, I will! And then I'll apply for AISD. Frugality prevails! Haha.
I also ran by James Avery yesterday to see if there was anything I could/wanted to exchange a charm for...I got a lovely ichthys charm for graduation, but it's a little bulky for my tastes and so wanted one that was little more dainty or something, but didn't really find anything that really jumped out at me. I contemplated getting a 2nd A&M charm, one that I could wear on a necklace chain (I already have one sautered on my charm bracelet)...I dunno if that's over-kill though. I was thinking it would be nice to have just the charm that I could wear whenever since I don't wear my charm bracelet all them time...but I can't decide. There was a lovely ichthys there that was kind of "swirly", meaning it had curly-ques and everything in it's design, but I just couldn't decide. Thoughts?? Suggestions??
Ok, ladies, here's a confession/question for you all: WHAT DEODORANT DO YOU USE?! For the last few months I have been sweating profusely (sorry boys...gross, I know, but whatever, such is life)...and I cannot seem to find one that keeps me at least somewhat dry...I just want a little dryness. Is that so much to ask?? Ugh, I don't even have to be doing anything and it feels like Niagara Falls under there - so not cool. My mom swears by Mitchum Clear Gel, and I've been using that to no avail...I've tried the "prescription strength" stuff, and haven't really had any luck there either. I'm a freak, I know. But, I know there have to be other people out there with the same question, so I'm going to buck-up and ask it for all of us. I am woman! {That last bit was for you Rach}
Anyways, today I plan on finishing Out of the Silent Planet. I finally finished The Road and I have to say I think I enjoyed it. I wasn't too fond of the ending, I felt it was a little lacking, but I think that was the point...did leave Cormick with room to make it into a series of some sort if he wants to, though; since he does seem to write in series/trilogies, etc. Anywho, I'm pretty behind on Harry Potter, and I still can't find the box that Redeeming Love ended up in...hmph, I am frustrated. I think once I finish Out of the Silent Planet I will hit up The Life of Pi. It's sitting in my parents' garage, so I may as well take advantage of a free book with no deadlines for return, right?? Right.
Well, all, I'm off to read my day away and maybe run some errands with my faja. Happy Friday!!
Shalom,
~MW
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
I'm still alive!
Ok lovelies, I know I have been M.I.A. for forever. My bad.... I was busy... Alright, so I may have taken the last week off from blogging, just because I could. Lame? Maybe, but I'm back now!
I know some of you are still patiently waiting for my post on resolutions, but I kind of have a problem: I may or may not have misplaced my notes from that Sunday because I managed to forget my journal that morning so I took my notes on a piece of scratch paper, which I cannot find. So, until they post the sermon or I corner Chaplain Willis and beg him for his notes, I'm stuck with trying to remember everything I wanted to remember on my own - it's going to take a bit of time.
Now, for some updates!
So, what have I been up top that has been keeping me from you?? Well...For starters I got to spend the whole week with the lovely Alyssa down in C-Stat. We celebrated her belated bday on Saturday - oh, it was lovely. We definitely made some awesome memories this week. Aside from hanging with Alyssa I was working in the lab with Dr. Wharton and Aubs. Made some progress with some stuff that needed to be finished up, took some pictures of some wasps, you know, the usual. I had lots of lunches with peoples, LOTS of coffee dates...oh my gosh, I think I drank more coffee last week than ever before...oh, no, that's a lie, actually - the most coffee I have ever had in a week was during finals this past semester...that was a lot of coffee. Went to some movies, etc. It was great to get to hang with BMetz and KZhaurova and Aubs - I have missed my bug dorks. Oh my goodness, Friday night was ridiculous: after a lovely dinner with the Humphreys and some quality YouTube perusing, Alyssa and B and I went over to Cam's for some classic signs followed by hide and go seek in the dark...yes, you read that correctly. Alyssa and I were up til about 3:30am...we felt SO OLD!! Haha, it was sad. We experienced a few of those "we aren't in college anymore" moments, too. But it was great fun, and we slept well that night. It was a huge blessing to get to attend worship at Living Hope the last two Sundays as well - and my quality time with the Humphreys followed by quality time with B this Sunday before I hit the road back to A-town was absolutely wonderful. Basically, I had an awesome week. I cannot wait to go back for another of week of work and visiting.
I will say this, though: it was a very odd feeling to be back in C-Stat and not be a student. Alyssa and I talked about this feeling a bit and how it is so strange that it sets in almost over-night. You, know...that feeling of not being in college anymore, but not exactly starting that next stage of your life. There are lots of names for it: time of waiting, limbo, in-between...I'm calling it my intermission. It really is just that to me. The drama that is my life isn't over yet, but it's time to take a little break and stretch my legs...err, brain...get a little snack, etc. It's weird and has its ups and downs, but I am excited to see what growing comes out of this time that God has graced me with. Because really, I am very fortunate to have this opportunity to simply be.
Well, all, it is time to get things really rolling...taking the wee ones to see The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus around 2 - should be good!
Happy Tuesday.
Shalom,
~MW
I know some of you are still patiently waiting for my post on resolutions, but I kind of have a problem: I may or may not have misplaced my notes from that Sunday because I managed to forget my journal that morning so I took my notes on a piece of scratch paper, which I cannot find. So, until they post the sermon or I corner Chaplain Willis and beg him for his notes, I'm stuck with trying to remember everything I wanted to remember on my own - it's going to take a bit of time.
Now, for some updates!
So, what have I been up top that has been keeping me from you?? Well...For starters I got to spend the whole week with the lovely Alyssa down in C-Stat. We celebrated her belated bday on Saturday - oh, it was lovely. We definitely made some awesome memories this week. Aside from hanging with Alyssa I was working in the lab with Dr. Wharton and Aubs. Made some progress with some stuff that needed to be finished up, took some pictures of some wasps, you know, the usual. I had lots of lunches with peoples, LOTS of coffee dates...oh my gosh, I think I drank more coffee last week than ever before...oh, no, that's a lie, actually - the most coffee I have ever had in a week was during finals this past semester...that was a lot of coffee. Went to some movies, etc. It was great to get to hang with BMetz and KZhaurova and Aubs - I have missed my bug dorks. Oh my goodness, Friday night was ridiculous: after a lovely dinner with the Humphreys and some quality YouTube perusing, Alyssa and B and I went over to Cam's for some classic signs followed by hide and go seek in the dark...yes, you read that correctly. Alyssa and I were up til about 3:30am...we felt SO OLD!! Haha, it was sad. We experienced a few of those "we aren't in college anymore" moments, too. But it was great fun, and we slept well that night. It was a huge blessing to get to attend worship at Living Hope the last two Sundays as well - and my quality time with the Humphreys followed by quality time with B this Sunday before I hit the road back to A-town was absolutely wonderful. Basically, I had an awesome week. I cannot wait to go back for another of week of work and visiting.
I will say this, though: it was a very odd feeling to be back in C-Stat and not be a student. Alyssa and I talked about this feeling a bit and how it is so strange that it sets in almost over-night. You, know...that feeling of not being in college anymore, but not exactly starting that next stage of your life. There are lots of names for it: time of waiting, limbo, in-between...I'm calling it my intermission. It really is just that to me. The drama that is my life isn't over yet, but it's time to take a little break and stretch my legs...err, brain...get a little snack, etc. It's weird and has its ups and downs, but I am excited to see what growing comes out of this time that God has graced me with. Because really, I am very fortunate to have this opportunity to simply be.
Well, all, it is time to get things really rolling...taking the wee ones to see The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus around 2 - should be good!
Happy Tuesday.
Shalom,
~MW
Thursday, January 07, 2010
Random thoughts from today.
Doing MORE laundry today...that's really the only part of the cleaning I've done for Mamma so far...I'll tackle the Christmas decor later on this afternoon.
Nesters and homemakers...anyone who cares how their home looks (no matter the size), really...look here for some awesome ideas on decorating with little knick-knacks/accessories. So simple! Scale, stagger, layer!
Mamma's car is all pretty and shinny again! ServiceKing did a great job fixing it up - thanks for taking care of us, Darrell!
It's pretty chilly today - I loooove these northerly winds. Makes me happy as a lark...I could probably sing all day today, if Mamma didn't need to study :/
A note about Mamma's studying: Her classes don't start for another week and a half or so, but she already has to study for some of her classes!!! She has an EXAM on the FIRST DAY OF CLASSES in one of them!!! Over 20 chapters!!!!! That should be illegal...but, my mom is awesome :)
Looking forward to seeing Skate, Chamilton, and Catia of Moria this evening - it will be delightful to finally reunite with those lovely ladies. Love them!!!
Also looking forward to my Buttered Rum date with Mamma, directly following the reunion...and of course LOST with the wee ones. I love my life right now...can I please fast forward to being a house wife?? ;) KIDDING!!! Please, Lord, not yet! I still need to figure out how to take care of myself all on my own!
The roommies reunion with the North Bardell Ladies, on Friday, will be wonderful as well. It's been a while since all 4 of us have been together. Looking forward to it!!
Much to do, much to do! Hope to get some reading done, too!
Shalom!
~MW
Nesters and homemakers...anyone who cares how their home looks (no matter the size), really...look here for some awesome ideas on decorating with little knick-knacks/accessories. So simple! Scale, stagger, layer!
Mamma's car is all pretty and shinny again! ServiceKing did a great job fixing it up - thanks for taking care of us, Darrell!
It's pretty chilly today - I loooove these northerly winds. Makes me happy as a lark...I could probably sing all day today, if Mamma didn't need to study :/
A note about Mamma's studying: Her classes don't start for another week and a half or so, but she already has to study for some of her classes!!! She has an EXAM on the FIRST DAY OF CLASSES in one of them!!! Over 20 chapters!!!!! That should be illegal...but, my mom is awesome :)
Looking forward to seeing Skate, Chamilton, and Catia of Moria this evening - it will be delightful to finally reunite with those lovely ladies. Love them!!!
Also looking forward to my Buttered Rum date with Mamma, directly following the reunion...and of course LOST with the wee ones. I love my life right now...can I please fast forward to being a house wife?? ;) KIDDING!!! Please, Lord, not yet! I still need to figure out how to take care of myself all on my own!
The roommies reunion with the North Bardell Ladies, on Friday, will be wonderful as well. It's been a while since all 4 of us have been together. Looking forward to it!!
Much to do, much to do! Hope to get some reading done, too!
Shalom!
~MW
Wednesday, January 06, 2010
Ah free time...
Happy Wednesday, all!
So, I have a confession to make: today, after I dropped of the wee ones at school...I...went back to bed!!! **cowers in shame** I know! I know!! I was going to try and not do that..but, I was just so tired! And I even went to bed early last night {after the nightly ritual of watching LOST with the wee ones, of course}! *sigh* I'm sorry...I'll try to do better tomorrow... I also slept 'til about 11... Again, I know...
Anyways, now that my confession is done and over with, on with the post! So, I finally finished my 2010 post, and was happy to click my "Publish Post" button on that one. It's kind of rambly, I'm sorry to say...but, whatever.
Today has been pretty blah, other than undertaking the task of STAINING MY INSECT DRAWER!! OK, just and FYI: wood stain is sticky!! I mean, really sticky...like, I had to use a scrub-brush to get it off my hands sticky. I suppose if I were a proud owner of some Go-Jo I may not have needed a scrub-brush, but alas, I am not that awesome. Maybe some day... But, the drawer is looking good. It will soon be a dried rich chestnut color. Yummm! It was a white pine initially. Pine is nice, but I've always been a fan of the darker woods, or at least oak dark...pines are bit too light for me. Thank progress for the development of wood stains! I'm really excited about it, with the exception of the part where I screwed up royally and spilled some stain on my insect board...looks like I'll be investing in some form of white-wash. Oh well. But that was a fun accomplishment, for sure. Here's some picturas for yas:
In other things, I would like to direct you all to my dear friend Mak's blog. She is an amazing woman of God and she is currently reading a book which is bringing up a lot of contemplation within her spirit. I think you all might do well to take a gander at her thoughts - eye-opening, to say the least. Truly a young woman after God's own heart. You can find her here.
Well, now it's off the get the wee ones - they both had practices after school today, so they weren't done at their normal time...gave me more time to chillax with the mamma and play on le internet ;)
Cheers!
~MW
So, I have a confession to make: today, after I dropped of the wee ones at school...I...went back to bed!!! **cowers in shame** I know! I know!! I was going to try and not do that..but, I was just so tired! And I even went to bed early last night {after the nightly ritual of watching LOST with the wee ones, of course}! *sigh* I'm sorry...I'll try to do better tomorrow... I also slept 'til about 11... Again, I know...
Anyways, now that my confession is done and over with, on with the post! So, I finally finished my 2010 post, and was happy to click my "Publish Post" button on that one. It's kind of rambly, I'm sorry to say...but, whatever.
Today has been pretty blah, other than undertaking the task of STAINING MY INSECT DRAWER!! OK, just and FYI: wood stain is sticky!! I mean, really sticky...like, I had to use a scrub-brush to get it off my hands sticky. I suppose if I were a proud owner of some Go-Jo I may not have needed a scrub-brush, but alas, I am not that awesome. Maybe some day... But, the drawer is looking good. It will soon be a dried rich chestnut color. Yummm! It was a white pine initially. Pine is nice, but I've always been a fan of the darker woods, or at least oak dark...pines are bit too light for me. Thank progress for the development of wood stains! I'm really excited about it, with the exception of the part where I screwed up royally and spilled some stain on my insect board...looks like I'll be investing in some form of white-wash. Oh well. But that was a fun accomplishment, for sure. Here's some picturas for yas:
In other things, I would like to direct you all to my dear friend Mak's blog. She is an amazing woman of God and she is currently reading a book which is bringing up a lot of contemplation within her spirit. I think you all might do well to take a gander at her thoughts - eye-opening, to say the least. Truly a young woman after God's own heart. You can find her here.
Well, now it's off the get the wee ones - they both had practices after school today, so they weren't done at their normal time...gave me more time to chillax with the mamma and play on le internet ;)
Cheers!
~MW
Tuesday, January 05, 2010
2010: A Brand New...Decade!
Wow, day 6 of not only the new year, but the new decade!
A new decade, all my own! I was thinking about the last two times I have entered into a new decade...The first one was in 1990, I was just about 3yrs old so, of course, I do not remember that at all. The next one was in 2000. Now, THAT I remember - but, I remember that it was a new millennium, more than anything else. It never crossed my mind that it was the start of a new decade, because I was around to witness the start of a new millennium! Who gets to see that?! What a celebration that was... But even still, at the near age of 13 it didn't really mean much other than it was going to be an even bigger New Year's celebration than ever before. I didn't really grasp the significance of it all. But this year, as we enter into the "double-digits" of the 2000's it really means something.
Why does it mean so much, though? I've been trying to figure that out. Because, when you stop and think about it, each year could, technically, be the start of another decade of your life...technically. It's so strange to think about. A decade is a long time...and yet, the last one seems to have gone by in a flash - even though the first few years of it seem like they were in a different lifetime.
Where will the Lord take my life over the next 10 years? What am I going to do? Who will I meet? What will I accomplish - for the Lord, myself, others, the World?? So many unanswered questions. And yet, having those questions unanswered is OK. I'm not really afraid of what lies ahead. Anxious to finally know what will happen, yes, but afraid, no so much. Do I experience moments of terror when I think about the possibilities and hurt the next 10 years might hold, absolutely. I'd be lying if I said I don't. But, over all, I have a peace about the next 10 years.
"God is always in control, and always prepares the way." This is something that was brought up in my Tuesday night Bible study. We are working our way through the Book of Esther, and that is the general theme of the story. No matter what happens, God is always in control, and God always prepares the way for our salvation. This notion is encouraging to me. And, notion is a poor choice of words, for it's so much more than a notion...it's a lifestyle, a promise, a true understanding of Who and What God is. He is all powerful, all knowing, and through Him we have absolutely nothing to fear! How liberating is that?! Through Him we have NOTHING to fear! Our God truly is an awesome God. He never forgets us, never forsakes us, never leaves us. Basically, He's awesome.
What a blessing and grace-FULL gift it is to be found in Him.
I sometimes find myself getting discouraged and frustrated...or, rather, impatient...with God when I don't see "results". I too often forget that my desired results do not always match up with His **known** results. He is all knowing. He knows what is best for His children, and He knows how much we can handle. And...much to our dismay, He knows how to discipline His children. He knows us. He knows me. He knows you. He quite simply...knows. Wow.
Another thing I do, far too often, is forget to listen. I get so caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life, that I forget to listen for God's responses to me. I don't exactly mean that literally, while I don't doubt that He does indeed still literally speak to people, I know He often uses other means to speak to us...Scripture, other people, etc. But He, in my case at least, tends to do His speaking quietly and subtly. Wouldn't it just be a whole lot easier if He sent messages through fireworks in the sky or something??? Or via postcard...??? Haha. It definitely would. But, then I think maybe we wouldn't stand in so much awe of Him and the ways in which He moves and speaks to us. I dunno, maybe I'm just rambling now, but I've been thinking about this a lot lately, in response to some impatiences {is that a word?? it is now!} I've been having. I want things to happen in my time, but I can't see what He sees, and so my time may not be the best time for these things to happen in. So I will try to be still, and listen, and wait, and...be patient. Oh Patience, you and I have never been too close...wanna help me out a little bit there?? Come on, let's be friends!
Well, now that I have chased another little rabbit hole, I think I will close, but leave you with this:
A new decade holds endless opportunities...let God show them to you. Be still. Be quiet. Listen. Wait. Be patient. Cling to His providence and turn your will over to His. I know...much easier said than done, but we all have to start somewhere!
Happy New Year...Happy New Decade...Happy 2010!!
Shalom,
~MW
P.S. - Be looking for a post on new year's resolutions! Had a great sermon on them at church last week that I think will blow your minds!!
A new decade, all my own! I was thinking about the last two times I have entered into a new decade...The first one was in 1990, I was just about 3yrs old so, of course, I do not remember that at all. The next one was in 2000. Now, THAT I remember - but, I remember that it was a new millennium, more than anything else. It never crossed my mind that it was the start of a new decade, because I was around to witness the start of a new millennium! Who gets to see that?! What a celebration that was... But even still, at the near age of 13 it didn't really mean much other than it was going to be an even bigger New Year's celebration than ever before. I didn't really grasp the significance of it all. But this year, as we enter into the "double-digits" of the 2000's it really means something.
Why does it mean so much, though? I've been trying to figure that out. Because, when you stop and think about it, each year could, technically, be the start of another decade of your life...technically. It's so strange to think about. A decade is a long time...and yet, the last one seems to have gone by in a flash - even though the first few years of it seem like they were in a different lifetime.
Where will the Lord take my life over the next 10 years? What am I going to do? Who will I meet? What will I accomplish - for the Lord, myself, others, the World?? So many unanswered questions. And yet, having those questions unanswered is OK. I'm not really afraid of what lies ahead. Anxious to finally know what will happen, yes, but afraid, no so much. Do I experience moments of terror when I think about the possibilities and hurt the next 10 years might hold, absolutely. I'd be lying if I said I don't. But, over all, I have a peace about the next 10 years.
"God is always in control, and always prepares the way." This is something that was brought up in my Tuesday night Bible study. We are working our way through the Book of Esther, and that is the general theme of the story. No matter what happens, God is always in control, and God always prepares the way for our salvation. This notion is encouraging to me. And, notion is a poor choice of words, for it's so much more than a notion...it's a lifestyle, a promise, a true understanding of Who and What God is. He is all powerful, all knowing, and through Him we have absolutely nothing to fear! How liberating is that?! Through Him we have NOTHING to fear! Our God truly is an awesome God. He never forgets us, never forsakes us, never leaves us. Basically, He's awesome.
What a blessing and grace-FULL gift it is to be found in Him.
I sometimes find myself getting discouraged and frustrated...or, rather, impatient...with God when I don't see "results". I too often forget that my desired results do not always match up with His **known** results. He is all knowing. He knows what is best for His children, and He knows how much we can handle. And...much to our dismay, He knows how to discipline His children. He knows us. He knows me. He knows you. He quite simply...knows. Wow.
Another thing I do, far too often, is forget to listen. I get so caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life, that I forget to listen for God's responses to me. I don't exactly mean that literally, while I don't doubt that He does indeed still literally speak to people, I know He often uses other means to speak to us...Scripture, other people, etc. But He, in my case at least, tends to do His speaking quietly and subtly. Wouldn't it just be a whole lot easier if He sent messages through fireworks in the sky or something??? Or via postcard...??? Haha. It definitely would. But, then I think maybe we wouldn't stand in so much awe of Him and the ways in which He moves and speaks to us. I dunno, maybe I'm just rambling now, but I've been thinking about this a lot lately, in response to some impatiences {is that a word?? it is now!} I've been having. I want things to happen in my time, but I can't see what He sees, and so my time may not be the best time for these things to happen in. So I will try to be still, and listen, and wait, and...be patient. Oh Patience, you and I have never been too close...wanna help me out a little bit there?? Come on, let's be friends!
Well, now that I have chased another little rabbit hole, I think I will close, but leave you with this:
A new decade holds endless opportunities...let God show them to you. Be still. Be quiet. Listen. Wait. Be patient. Cling to His providence and turn your will over to His. I know...much easier said than done, but we all have to start somewhere!
Happy New Year...Happy New Decade...Happy 2010!!
Shalom,
~MW
P.S. - Be looking for a post on new year's resolutions! Had a great sermon on them at church last week that I think will blow your minds!!
My new "routine"
Top of the morning to you, loves! And a very Happy 2010 to you all.
I've been up since 6:30! And I'm still awake!! I'm liking this new routine, I think. As of yesterday, I am getting up circa 6:30, taking the "wee ones" to school (haha, makes it sound so juvenile, when really one is a senior in high school and the other a sophomore...ah well, I enjoy it!), coming home and starting my day (well, that whole starting my day thing is new development, as of this morning...we'll see if I can keep it up...). Today, mom is off of work, but has an orientation dealy for her nursing classes, so she'll be gone all day. But, since she didn't need to leave until 8 or so, she and I were afforded the opportunity to enjoy a little early morning chat as she finished getting ready for the day.
Now that she is "off to school" {I'm so ridiculously proud of her} I have the house to myself. I have started the laundry that has been piling up at the foot of stairs, taken care of my emails, and of course facebook, and now here I sit: cup of fresh coffee, some oatmeal, and my lappytop.
Aside: Food packages are so educational now-a-days! As I was making up my oatmeal I was reading the package to pass the time...did you know that most dinosaurs lived for 50-60yrs?! Best pet ever, am I right?! They would live almost your entire lifetime! That settles it, I'm getting one :)
So, here I sit. Blank canvas that is the internet in front of me. First, though, I really enjoying taking the boys to school and picking them in the afternoons - give me some sense of purpose right now. This wouldn't be a part of my day had the J-man not gotten himself into another accident...woops! But I like it. After just one day, though, I totally get why our parents were so frustrated with us when they would ask us, "How was school today?" And we would begrudgingly reply, "Fine." "Did anything exciting happen?" "No." "Anything bad happen, then??" "I dunno..." "Well, OK then..." I mean come on!!! I'm your big sister, give me something here, kids!!! Haha, well, I've decided that I am going to try to work on this little issue of one to two worded answers. HA! Wish me luck!
Now that everyone is off for the day I'm left to my own devices...it's weird to not really have anything that I need to do...all...day...long. I was tired of the incessant lounging that occurred over Christmas (not the company, just the lack of activity) after about 4 days, so I'm sure I will soon be tired of this, too. But, having this time is such a blessing. My parents are truly spoiling me right now by allowing me to simply be. I think they, even more than I myself, really know how tired I was (am) after this last semester. I cannot thank them enough for letting me rest and recuperate - I was definitely in need. Part of me feels guilty, because everyone else is back into the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and I'm just chillin', but then I think about my 4.5yr college career - it kind of makes me want to die, but then I remember that it's over for a spell. Thank you, Lord for granting me this intermission. I have time to read again...I'd almost forgotten what a novel looked like! I think the only thing that allowed me to remember that there are beautiful works of art in the form of words on pages bound together was my amazing class on J. R. R. Tolkien {If you ever have the chance to take a class on him...at any point in time, do it! You will NOT be disappointed}...such an amazing, eye-opening, and inspiring class. That class actually made me appreciate my dendrology class even more. Tolkien's love of trees increased my joy of learning about them and helped me to recognize their beauty even more.
But, back to my free time! I started my book list!!! I can honestly say that I am currently reading 3 books! 3 WHOLE BOOKS!! I don't know that I have ever done this...but, let me just tell you: it is marvelous. I am so enjoying this. My current undertakings include: The Road - Cormac McCarthy, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire - J. K. Rowling, and Redeeming Love - Francine Rivers. The Road I am tackling because I feel like I need to, out of service to my generation, plus it's supposed to be good, plus it was given to me by the Seaner. And, I can honestly say that I am enjoying it! It's weird, to say the least, but it has this sort of draw that keeps you wanting to turn the page to find out what happens next. I approve. Goblet is a re-read. I never finished the Harry Potter series, and so decided I would start over from the last book I read completely and go from there (I only made it about a quarter of the way through Order of the Phoenix). And, Redeeming Love is just one I've always wanted to read...just never got around to it.
Next I will be reading:
Bitterwood - James Maxey (dragons!!)
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, of course
Out of the Silent Planet - C. S. Lewis.
As I mark books off and add others to the empty slots I'll let you know.
Aside from reading, I also plan to do some crafties. Before the weekend comes I will be staining my insect drawer...finally...so that I can finally place all of my little gems into their forever home, safe and sound :) I can't wait! I've never stained anything before, but the wonderfully generous Mr. Freeman has loaned me a can of his stain so I can test the waters...err, wood?? I'll take pictures and let you know how it all turns out. I think that will be on tap for tomorrow. Maybe I can get the mamma to help me out, or at least sit with me.
In other crafties, I plan to **attempt** to make a dent in the years of scrapbooking I have to catch up on...we'll see if that happens... I also want to finally tackle some of those blank canvas boards I acquired almost two years ago {Note to self: do not attempt to do a lot of projects while in college...it just won't happen. School always wins the time battle. Hmf!} I have some ideas for them, hopefully they will turn out as I envision them. I also have a long overdue baby blanket that needs knitting...I have maybe a 16th of it done.
There is one other thing I think I am going to attempt to do while I'm home. Each day I hope to tackle one portion of my mother's house and really, really, really clean it for her. She just doesn't have the time to do it anymore, what-with being a student, a working nurse, a mother, and a pastor's wife. I think I am going to do this for her. She's just as tired I was when I was in school and she has way more responsibilities than I did. I feel like this is a just a little something I can give back to her. One less thing she has to worry about getting done in the all-too-short 24hr days we live.
Well all, I have a 2010 post that I'm working on, currently, and I hope to have that up by the end of the day, but for now I'm going to go mark some things off my to-do lists. Happy day to you!!
Shalom,
~MW
I've been up since 6:30! And I'm still awake!! I'm liking this new routine, I think. As of yesterday, I am getting up circa 6:30, taking the "wee ones" to school (haha, makes it sound so juvenile, when really one is a senior in high school and the other a sophomore...ah well, I enjoy it!), coming home and starting my day (well, that whole starting my day thing is new development, as of this morning...we'll see if I can keep it up...). Today, mom is off of work, but has an orientation dealy for her nursing classes, so she'll be gone all day. But, since she didn't need to leave until 8 or so, she and I were afforded the opportunity to enjoy a little early morning chat as she finished getting ready for the day.
Now that she is "off to school" {I'm so ridiculously proud of her} I have the house to myself. I have started the laundry that has been piling up at the foot of stairs, taken care of my emails, and of course facebook, and now here I sit: cup of fresh coffee, some oatmeal, and my lappytop.
Aside: Food packages are so educational now-a-days! As I was making up my oatmeal I was reading the package to pass the time...did you know that most dinosaurs lived for 50-60yrs?! Best pet ever, am I right?! They would live almost your entire lifetime! That settles it, I'm getting one :)
So, here I sit. Blank canvas that is the internet in front of me. First, though, I really enjoying taking the boys to school and picking them in the afternoons - give me some sense of purpose right now. This wouldn't be a part of my day had the J-man not gotten himself into another accident...woops! But I like it. After just one day, though, I totally get why our parents were so frustrated with us when they would ask us, "How was school today?" And we would begrudgingly reply, "Fine." "Did anything exciting happen?" "No." "Anything bad happen, then??" "I dunno..." "Well, OK then..." I mean come on!!! I'm your big sister, give me something here, kids!!! Haha, well, I've decided that I am going to try to work on this little issue of one to two worded answers. HA! Wish me luck!
Now that everyone is off for the day I'm left to my own devices...it's weird to not really have anything that I need to do...all...day...long. I was tired of the incessant lounging that occurred over Christmas (not the company, just the lack of activity) after about 4 days, so I'm sure I will soon be tired of this, too. But, having this time is such a blessing. My parents are truly spoiling me right now by allowing me to simply be. I think they, even more than I myself, really know how tired I was (am) after this last semester. I cannot thank them enough for letting me rest and recuperate - I was definitely in need. Part of me feels guilty, because everyone else is back into the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and I'm just chillin', but then I think about my 4.5yr college career - it kind of makes me want to die, but then I remember that it's over for a spell. Thank you, Lord for granting me this intermission. I have time to read again...I'd almost forgotten what a novel looked like! I think the only thing that allowed me to remember that there are beautiful works of art in the form of words on pages bound together was my amazing class on J. R. R. Tolkien {If you ever have the chance to take a class on him...at any point in time, do it! You will NOT be disappointed}...such an amazing, eye-opening, and inspiring class. That class actually made me appreciate my dendrology class even more. Tolkien's love of trees increased my joy of learning about them and helped me to recognize their beauty even more.
But, back to my free time! I started my book list!!! I can honestly say that I am currently reading 3 books! 3 WHOLE BOOKS!! I don't know that I have ever done this...but, let me just tell you: it is marvelous. I am so enjoying this. My current undertakings include: The Road - Cormac McCarthy, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire - J. K. Rowling, and Redeeming Love - Francine Rivers. The Road I am tackling because I feel like I need to, out of service to my generation, plus it's supposed to be good, plus it was given to me by the Seaner. And, I can honestly say that I am enjoying it! It's weird, to say the least, but it has this sort of draw that keeps you wanting to turn the page to find out what happens next. I approve. Goblet is a re-read. I never finished the Harry Potter series, and so decided I would start over from the last book I read completely and go from there (I only made it about a quarter of the way through Order of the Phoenix). And, Redeeming Love is just one I've always wanted to read...just never got around to it.
Next I will be reading:
Bitterwood - James Maxey (dragons!!)
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, of course
Out of the Silent Planet - C. S. Lewis.
As I mark books off and add others to the empty slots I'll let you know.
Aside from reading, I also plan to do some crafties. Before the weekend comes I will be staining my insect drawer...finally...so that I can finally place all of my little gems into their forever home, safe and sound :) I can't wait! I've never stained anything before, but the wonderfully generous Mr. Freeman has loaned me a can of his stain so I can test the waters...err, wood?? I'll take pictures and let you know how it all turns out. I think that will be on tap for tomorrow. Maybe I can get the mamma to help me out, or at least sit with me.
In other crafties, I plan to **attempt** to make a dent in the years of scrapbooking I have to catch up on...we'll see if that happens... I also want to finally tackle some of those blank canvas boards I acquired almost two years ago {Note to self: do not attempt to do a lot of projects while in college...it just won't happen. School always wins the time battle. Hmf!} I have some ideas for them, hopefully they will turn out as I envision them. I also have a long overdue baby blanket that needs knitting...I have maybe a 16th of it done.
There is one other thing I think I am going to attempt to do while I'm home. Each day I hope to tackle one portion of my mother's house and really, really, really clean it for her. She just doesn't have the time to do it anymore, what-with being a student, a working nurse, a mother, and a pastor's wife. I think I am going to do this for her. She's just as tired I was when I was in school and she has way more responsibilities than I did. I feel like this is a just a little something I can give back to her. One less thing she has to worry about getting done in the all-too-short 24hr days we live.
Well all, I have a 2010 post that I'm working on, currently, and I hope to have that up by the end of the day, but for now I'm going to go mark some things off my to-do lists. Happy day to you!!
Shalom,
~MW
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