If you live in Colorado, I find that it is essential to have a well-thought out biking theology. The reason? Elevation!
Not long ago a friend of mine in Oklahoma posted her running log, which included a commentary on great dislike for the "hills" she had to run. The small print noted there was a total change in elevation of 30 feet. It still makes me giggle. I think there's a 30 foot elevation change from one end of my driveway to the other. Well, maybe I indulge the truth...but not by much.
Elevation in Colorado is serious business. All of my bike rides include an elevation change of no less than 1,000 feet. I can't even run around my neighborhood without descending or ascending several hundred feet in either direction.
So biking theology = good idea! Mine is very simple. Go uphill first. This makes perfect sense to me. If you bike uphill first, enduring all the strain and tough work of long hills, you will be rewarded at the end of your ride with a fun, easy, downhill coast. There are several cliches that come to mind that fit this theology. "Work hard. Play later." * "No pain. No Gain." * "The difference between try and triumph is a little umph."
The interesting thing is that about 95% of the bikers I pass on the trails do not share this biking theology. That is — they go downhill first, then uphill. It makes for an interesting ride. As I dig deep and pedal uphill, hoards of bikers fly past me — going downhill — all smiling and greeting me with a cheery "Good morning!" I huff out a "Hi" or "Morning" trying not to expend too much precious energy. I rarely smile.
(Side note: I would think it would only take one bike ride with the incorrect theology to realize a change was needed, but this does not seem to be the case because I continue to be the odd biker on the trail...going the "wrong" direction first.)
Oh, but the tables do turn; and I am the better for it. As I come flying downhill, I pass all those cheerful bikers but there is a vast difference in their countenance. They no longer shout cheerful greetings; they rarely smile or even look up. I, on the other hand, become Pollyanna on the trail and share joy and happiness wherever I pedal — downhill!
PS. My daughter and I tested my theology this morning when we rode our bikes to her piano lesson. It was a quick 15 minute downhill ride to get there. We were smiles and giggles the whole way. The ride back was a very steep (probably the steepest in town) long uphill...and it was hot! It took us 45 minutes. We were grumbles and sweat the whole way. That's not a ride we'll be doing again — at least not any time soon.
Showing posts with label Ramblings. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Ramblings. Show all posts
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Monday, July 25, 2011
Venting or confessing over a not-so-clean kitchen
Most of my friends know that, for me, Mondays are cleaning/laundry days. I spend the whole day cleaning the entire house and doing all the laundry. My philosophy is this: I don't want to be a slave to housework. So I do it once a week. That's it! By the weekend the mess is usually driving me crazy, but I force myself to let it go and not make my family uptight with my deranged need for spotlessness.
Now during the summer, I allow other activities to intermingle with cleaning day. We go for a bike ride or spend a couple hours at the pool or venture to the library. The goal is to still have fun with my kids while accomplishing my goal of cleaning the house once a week.
Today was just such a day. I even spent an hour reading in the hammock (one of my favorite summer activities). The house was finally clean and it was time for me start dinner. I was just beginning to pull all the ingredients out of the fridge when I felt a "shower" of soda on me. To my utter surprise and horror, I turned to see a soda can that had been dropped on the floor - spewing ALLLLLLL of its contents ALLLLLL over my newly cleaned kitchen. From top to bottom. From one end to the other.
I'm not gonna lie. I saw red! I couldn't speak! I stood there holding back my wrath with every ounce of self control I could muster. "Please go downstairs and do not return until I call for you." That's all I said but I was also thinking, "You better thank your lucky stars I've been learning about self control and didn't open a can of...." You get the picture. I can honestly say I have never been that angry at one of my children. (The anger arose from the disobedience that led to such an awful accident...not at the accident itself.)
I didn't even know where to start. Not only were the cabinets dripping with soda, I was dripping with soda. As I wiped down the cabinets and floor I thought about my reaction.I was thankful the Holy Spirit closed my mouth. Goodness knows that's not always the case. I've been studying and praying for days about living a disciplined life. This was my first big test...and dare I say I passed? No. I didn't pass, but I didn't fail either. There was a supernatural control that rose up in me, and I was able to keep my anger and venting inside. But I fumed on the inside...maybe a little longer than necessary. Will there be a day when I don't react on the inside so strongly? Will grace ever fully take over my heart and mind so that anger isn't even an option?
Do you know people like that? They just never get angry? My husband is one of those people. I'm certain that in the past 16 years that I've known him, I've seen him get angry. Once. But the truth is I can't even recall it. My memories of him are full of times when he had the right to be angry, but he responded with grace and patience instead. I wish I were like that. I'm learning that a disciplined life allows grace to take over. That's what I long for. More fruit of the Spirit in my life. More of Him. Less of me.
I've made way worse mistakes in my life. And the price tag was much higher than a dirty kitchen. This simple truth alone should allow me to be more grace-filled and forgiving. Lord, let it be so.
* The names of the guilty in this story have been withheld to protect their identity. ☺
Now during the summer, I allow other activities to intermingle with cleaning day. We go for a bike ride or spend a couple hours at the pool or venture to the library. The goal is to still have fun with my kids while accomplishing my goal of cleaning the house once a week.
Today was just such a day. I even spent an hour reading in the hammock (one of my favorite summer activities). The house was finally clean and it was time for me start dinner. I was just beginning to pull all the ingredients out of the fridge when I felt a "shower" of soda on me. To my utter surprise and horror, I turned to see a soda can that had been dropped on the floor - spewing ALLLLLLL of its contents ALLLLLL over my newly cleaned kitchen. From top to bottom. From one end to the other.
I'm not gonna lie. I saw red! I couldn't speak! I stood there holding back my wrath with every ounce of self control I could muster. "Please go downstairs and do not return until I call for you." That's all I said but I was also thinking, "You better thank your lucky stars I've been learning about self control and didn't open a can of...." You get the picture. I can honestly say I have never been that angry at one of my children. (The anger arose from the disobedience that led to such an awful accident...not at the accident itself.)
I didn't even know where to start. Not only were the cabinets dripping with soda, I was dripping with soda. As I wiped down the cabinets and floor I thought about my reaction.I was thankful the Holy Spirit closed my mouth. Goodness knows that's not always the case. I've been studying and praying for days about living a disciplined life. This was my first big test...and dare I say I passed? No. I didn't pass, but I didn't fail either. There was a supernatural control that rose up in me, and I was able to keep my anger and venting inside. But I fumed on the inside...maybe a little longer than necessary. Will there be a day when I don't react on the inside so strongly? Will grace ever fully take over my heart and mind so that anger isn't even an option?
Do you know people like that? They just never get angry? My husband is one of those people. I'm certain that in the past 16 years that I've known him, I've seen him get angry. Once. But the truth is I can't even recall it. My memories of him are full of times when he had the right to be angry, but he responded with grace and patience instead. I wish I were like that. I'm learning that a disciplined life allows grace to take over. That's what I long for. More fruit of the Spirit in my life. More of Him. Less of me.
I've made way worse mistakes in my life. And the price tag was much higher than a dirty kitchen. This simple truth alone should allow me to be more grace-filled and forgiving. Lord, let it be so.
* The names of the guilty in this story have been withheld to protect their identity. ☺
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
What's not to love about Wednesday?
This morning I woke up and went for a mile run around the neighborhood. As I neared the top of the first hill, I was taken with the view - city in one direction and mountains in the other. I stopped, thinking to myself, "I never want to be so hurried that I don't have time to stop and be thankful." So I stood and praised God for all the blessings in my life as I took in the beautiful scenery.
That was followed by breakfast on the deck (one of my favorite things about summer) and more time with God. I love to start my mornings listening to the birds and the breeze through the trees. It makes me feel like I am worshipping God with all of creation.
The kids and I had plans to go to the pool, but they begged me to let them play in the childcare area first. Really!?! OK...so I dropped them off and rode the stationary bike while I read a fantastic book by Elisabeth Elliott. An hour of uninterrupted reading. That just doesn't happen to me very often.
So I thanked the kids by swimming with them all afternoon. We snacked on lots of fresh fruit and veggies and swam till we were too tired to go on. Our time in the sun was followed by a nap for all! I relished laying on the bed listening to the afternoon rain and feeling the cool breeze blow in the windows. And the thought occurred to me (as it often does), "I am so blessed."
Blessed. Not because I don't have troubles or trials or failures or broken dreams. Blessed. Because I have a Heavenly Father who gives me days like today - days of reprieve. My daily bread. His portion for me.
That was followed by breakfast on the deck (one of my favorite things about summer) and more time with God. I love to start my mornings listening to the birds and the breeze through the trees. It makes me feel like I am worshipping God with all of creation.
The kids and I had plans to go to the pool, but they begged me to let them play in the childcare area first. Really!?! OK...so I dropped them off and rode the stationary bike while I read a fantastic book by Elisabeth Elliott. An hour of uninterrupted reading. That just doesn't happen to me very often.
So I thanked the kids by swimming with them all afternoon. We snacked on lots of fresh fruit and veggies and swam till we were too tired to go on. Our time in the sun was followed by a nap for all! I relished laying on the bed listening to the afternoon rain and feeling the cool breeze blow in the windows. And the thought occurred to me (as it often does), "I am so blessed."
Blessed. Not because I don't have troubles or trials or failures or broken dreams. Blessed. Because I have a Heavenly Father who gives me days like today - days of reprieve. My daily bread. His portion for me.
Monday, June 27, 2011
What's your masterpiece?
As the kids and I rode bikes this morning I saw a sign outside of a landscaping shop that read, "Make today your masterpiece."
I thought that was so beautiful and couldn't quit thinking about it. If I looked at my day as an opportunity to create a masterpiece, what would I do?! How would I handle things differently? What things would I relinquish because they didn't meet the "important" factor. What things would I make time for no matter what because they are eternal?
These are the very questions God laid on my heart a couple of months ago, and I've been praying about them every day since. Here's what I've come up.
In making today my masterpiece I will:
I thought that was so beautiful and couldn't quit thinking about it. If I looked at my day as an opportunity to create a masterpiece, what would I do?! How would I handle things differently? What things would I relinquish because they didn't meet the "important" factor. What things would I make time for no matter what because they are eternal?
These are the very questions God laid on my heart a couple of months ago, and I've been praying about them every day since. Here's what I've come up.
In making today my masterpiece I will:
- Worry less
- Pray more
- Play hard (with my kids)
- Cut out the distractions (Facebook)
- Enjoy being active (bike rides, hikes, swimming with the kids)
- Become a good hand-holder (that one's for you Tim)
- Smile more
- Sigh less
- Enjoy reading (because I can, not because I have to)
- Eat lots of fruits and veggies (one of my favorite things about summer)
- Schedule less (I'm enjoying an open calendar where we can do whatever we feel like each day.)
- Cuddle in the hammock
- Listen to great tunes
- Throw open the windows
- Not stress about tomorrow
- Live in the moment
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Three things on Thursday
1) I was seriously thinking about taking a summer break from blogging until I read my friend Emily's blog and copied her post title. The thing is...I love blogging! But I have been very distracted playing with my kids this week. We've had a picnic every single day (even Monday when it rained...we picnicked in the basement). We've played Barbies, the Wii, and finished a 500 piece puzzle (thanks Grandma for the difficult glow-in-dark puzzle). We went to the pool for the first time today since summer break started (good riddance chicken pox)! So I may not take a complete break from blogging, but my guess is you'll see much less of me as I soak up all the free time I have with my kids. I'm loving our "no schedule" summer!!! (And that's a big deal coming from a gal who lives by her calendar.)
2) I started today in traffic court. Not something I've shared with anyone - (yes it's embarrassing) - and now it's out there for the world wide web. I was so upset and anxious about the whole thing when it first happened three weeks ago, but I worked through it with God and He gave me overwhelming peace about it all. By the time I left the house this morning, I was slightly annoyed at the inconvenience (it cut into my play time with the kids), but I was not the least bit anxious. I was only there an hour, but I managed to memorize Psalm 19 during my wait. That's what I call "God working all things for good." Let's just say it cost me a pretty penny to memorize that verse!
3) Next weekend Tim and I will be going to Breckenridge to celebrate our 13 year anniversary! How can it be?! I don't feel old enough to be married that long.... This will be our first anniversary trip without our kids. We've always taken family vacation the week of our anniversary; so needless to say, I am SUPER excited. We'll be staying at the same place where we spent part of our honeymoon. (It should be dually noted that the kids are equally excited to spend the weekend with Nanny and Papa!)
2) I started today in traffic court. Not something I've shared with anyone - (yes it's embarrassing) - and now it's out there for the world wide web. I was so upset and anxious about the whole thing when it first happened three weeks ago, but I worked through it with God and He gave me overwhelming peace about it all. By the time I left the house this morning, I was slightly annoyed at the inconvenience (it cut into my play time with the kids), but I was not the least bit anxious. I was only there an hour, but I managed to memorize Psalm 19 during my wait. That's what I call "God working all things for good." Let's just say it cost me a pretty penny to memorize that verse!
3) Next weekend Tim and I will be going to Breckenridge to celebrate our 13 year anniversary! How can it be?! I don't feel old enough to be married that long.... This will be our first anniversary trip without our kids. We've always taken family vacation the week of our anniversary; so needless to say, I am SUPER excited. We'll be staying at the same place where we spent part of our honeymoon. (It should be dually noted that the kids are equally excited to spend the weekend with Nanny and Papa!)
Sunday, March 13, 2011
I need more of this
This morning I put on a dress for church (something I rarely do in the winter). Nate saw me and asked, "What's that Mommy?" I said, "It's my dress." With lots of excitement he asked, "Is it a princess dress!?!"
I decided right then and there I need warm weather so I can wear dresses more often. I could get used to being called a princess each week!
I decided right then and there I need warm weather so I can wear dresses more often. I could get used to being called a princess each week!
Friday, January 14, 2011
There's a stirring...
I didn't make any New Year resolutions...or even write out my yearly list of goals and dreams. I've just wrestled with this stirring deep within me. It's a stirring that beckons me to the Word of God throughout the day, wakens me in the night to pray, calms my anxious thoughts and deepens my longing for more of Him! That's my focus for 2011 - more of HIM! To know Him...not just by name...but in relationship and experience. To keep my pace in step with the Holy Spirit...to keep my eyes focused on the author and perfector of my faith...to laugh at the days to come because I know they belong to my Lord. May you also feel a stirring deep within that will take you to new heights in the new year. We serve a gracious, merciful and just King. We are blessed!
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Confessions of an unfit Mom
I have a 2-year-old little boy who wants to be potty trained. He has a Mom who is too busy to make it happen.
Sad, huh?!
Nate is so ready to be out of diapers. He says things like, "No diaper! Big boy potty. Go potty." The problem is I don't have enough down time to commit a day to potty training.
This makes me feel like a failure. An unfit Mom. Like I'm too caught up in other things. Like my priorities are all wrong.
At the beginning of this school year I decided to be intentional about not being too busy. I wanted to have lots of time for Nate and be available to my friends and family. Somehow things slowly warped into super, crazy, busy, full days. How does that happen?!
I lead women's Bible study. Volunteer once a month at Emma's school. Chair the 5K fundraiser for Emma's school (our first one will be next spring). Take card orders. Attend stamp camp once a month. And all the daily things of being a wife and mom like cleaning, cooking, laundry, pick up Emma from school, do the shopping, take Emma to her activities, keep Nate from breaking his neck, keep Nate on a schedule, keep Nate engaged and entertained, help Tim with various office needs (research, newsletters, mailings), etc. The list goes on and on. It gets to the point where exercise and daily time in the Word are rushed. Things I enjoy become burdensome. Oh dear, things HAVE to change.
The one thing I know for certain...daily time in the WORD should and will be my number one. It's the one thing I HAVE to have. I crave it! I long for it! I can't live without it.
Exercise is a close second for my own stability. And being a wife and mom come before all other activities. So judge me if you must, but I will be adding potty training to my calendar so I can make sure it happens. And I'll be looking for ways to cut back on outside activities. And I will guard my family time fiercely. And I will not leave the house or jump into a project before I have spent time with the One who gives me strength for the day.
I will lean into my Lord who makes me fit for the job.
Sad, huh?!
Nate is so ready to be out of diapers. He says things like, "No diaper! Big boy potty. Go potty." The problem is I don't have enough down time to commit a day to potty training.
This makes me feel like a failure. An unfit Mom. Like I'm too caught up in other things. Like my priorities are all wrong.
At the beginning of this school year I decided to be intentional about not being too busy. I wanted to have lots of time for Nate and be available to my friends and family. Somehow things slowly warped into super, crazy, busy, full days. How does that happen?!
I lead women's Bible study. Volunteer once a month at Emma's school. Chair the 5K fundraiser for Emma's school (our first one will be next spring). Take card orders. Attend stamp camp once a month. And all the daily things of being a wife and mom like cleaning, cooking, laundry, pick up Emma from school, do the shopping, take Emma to her activities, keep Nate from breaking his neck, keep Nate on a schedule, keep Nate engaged and entertained, help Tim with various office needs (research, newsletters, mailings), etc. The list goes on and on. It gets to the point where exercise and daily time in the Word are rushed. Things I enjoy become burdensome. Oh dear, things HAVE to change.
The one thing I know for certain...daily time in the WORD should and will be my number one. It's the one thing I HAVE to have. I crave it! I long for it! I can't live without it.
Exercise is a close second for my own stability. And being a wife and mom come before all other activities. So judge me if you must, but I will be adding potty training to my calendar so I can make sure it happens. And I'll be looking for ways to cut back on outside activities. And I will guard my family time fiercely. And I will not leave the house or jump into a project before I have spent time with the One who gives me strength for the day.
I will lean into my Lord who makes me fit for the job.
Monday, August 2, 2010
A New Day!
I am so grateful that each day is a new start!
For the past several weeks I have grown increasingly frustrated with my mothering skills and lack of knowledge in how to handle a spirited 21-month-old little boy and a 7-year-old that just wants more of my attention. Nate's behavior has been out of control and Emma's behavior was reflecting her frustration in a home that grew increasingly less peaceful.
Every night I would pray and ask God for answers, and every morning I felt Him leading me to the Word...this is where you will find answers. But my time in the Word was short due to busy days, fighting kids, and let's face it...my want to in the Word was gone. I was exhausted before my feet hit the floor each morning.
But God...don't you just love those two words?! God had a wonderful weekend in store for us that would change all that. We spent lots of time as a family and with family and with friends. It was fun and relaxing. The turning point came when we had dinner with some new friends on Saturday night. They are a little older than us but Godly parents with wisdom that they graciously poured over us. They gave us advice about parenting, discipline, finances and priorities...all peppered with the grace of God. It was exactly what we needed. Tim and I came home excited about the changes for our home and future.
I spent quite a bit of time in Scripture and prayer on Sunday. Tim and I spent time talking, and we decided to make some changes in the way we discipline our children, how we spend our money and what our priorities as a family would be. We wrote things down. We prayed. We talked to our children.
This morning I woke up excited! It's cleaning day in our home, and I believe in teaching the children to help. But I also saw the need to make it fun. So as we worked along, I would randomly call out "BREAK" and we would meet in the center of the house for a round of the hikey pokey, or to bust out some dance moves or to race cars along the floor. These breaks would only last about 2-3 minutes, but it was all the motivation my children needed. We got the house clean in half the time it usually takes me to do it alone, and we had fun along the way.
The best part is I instituted a new discipline method with Nate, and he has responded really well to it. I think I've gotten his attention and he is getting it! I also spent time talking to Emma over breakfast about various discipline topics, and she, too, responded quite well.
I'm reminded of one of my favorite verses in Lamentations about the newness of the day. Thank you Lord that each day is a new day and that we can always start over.
"Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." Lamentations 3:21-23
For the past several weeks I have grown increasingly frustrated with my mothering skills and lack of knowledge in how to handle a spirited 21-month-old little boy and a 7-year-old that just wants more of my attention. Nate's behavior has been out of control and Emma's behavior was reflecting her frustration in a home that grew increasingly less peaceful.
Every night I would pray and ask God for answers, and every morning I felt Him leading me to the Word...this is where you will find answers. But my time in the Word was short due to busy days, fighting kids, and let's face it...my want to in the Word was gone. I was exhausted before my feet hit the floor each morning.
But God...don't you just love those two words?! God had a wonderful weekend in store for us that would change all that. We spent lots of time as a family and with family and with friends. It was fun and relaxing. The turning point came when we had dinner with some new friends on Saturday night. They are a little older than us but Godly parents with wisdom that they graciously poured over us. They gave us advice about parenting, discipline, finances and priorities...all peppered with the grace of God. It was exactly what we needed. Tim and I came home excited about the changes for our home and future.
I spent quite a bit of time in Scripture and prayer on Sunday. Tim and I spent time talking, and we decided to make some changes in the way we discipline our children, how we spend our money and what our priorities as a family would be. We wrote things down. We prayed. We talked to our children.
This morning I woke up excited! It's cleaning day in our home, and I believe in teaching the children to help. But I also saw the need to make it fun. So as we worked along, I would randomly call out "BREAK" and we would meet in the center of the house for a round of the hikey pokey, or to bust out some dance moves or to race cars along the floor. These breaks would only last about 2-3 minutes, but it was all the motivation my children needed. We got the house clean in half the time it usually takes me to do it alone, and we had fun along the way.
The best part is I instituted a new discipline method with Nate, and he has responded really well to it. I think I've gotten his attention and he is getting it! I also spent time talking to Emma over breakfast about various discipline topics, and she, too, responded quite well.
I'm reminded of one of my favorite verses in Lamentations about the newness of the day. Thank you Lord that each day is a new day and that we can always start over.
"Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." Lamentations 3:21-23
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Summer. Oh how I love thee. Let me count the ways!
1. Waterskiing!
2. Lunches in the kids' fort.
3. Dinners on the deck.
4. Going to the zoo.
5. Painting my toenails.
6. Going to the pool!
7. Riding bikes.
8. Going for hikes.
9. Driving with the windows down.
10. Afternoon rain showers.
11. Reading in the hammock.
12. Annual family picnic at the park.
13. Fresh fruit.
14. No schedules.
15. Watermelon!
16. Homemade ice cream.
17. Chillin' on the lake.
18. Picking berries at Great Grandma Gladys's house.
19. Play dates at the park.
20. Barefeet.
21. Flipflops.
22. Shorts.
23. Tank tops.
24. No make up!
25. Lazy days.
26. Fun-packed weekends.
27. Open windows.
28. Cool mornings
29. Warm evenings.
30. Corn on the cob.
31. Colorado PEACHES!
32. Camping trips.
33. Afternoon naps.
34. Playing in the irrigation ditch at Great Grandma Gladys's house.
35. Flowers in bloom.
36. Deer in velvet.
37. Lemonade.
38. Popcicles.
39. Lawn games.
40. No school.
41. Hot sunny days.
42. Swimsuits.
43. The smell of sunscreen (Alba is the best!)
44. Family birthday celebrations.
45. BBQs with friends.
46. Fishing.
47. Sunglasses.
48. Roadtrips.
49. Weddings.
50. Sidewalk chalk.
So tell me, what are your favorite things about summer?!
2. Lunches in the kids' fort.
3. Dinners on the deck.
4. Going to the zoo.
5. Painting my toenails.
6. Going to the pool!
7. Riding bikes.
8. Going for hikes.
9. Driving with the windows down.
10. Afternoon rain showers.
11. Reading in the hammock.
12. Annual family picnic at the park.
13. Fresh fruit.
14. No schedules.
15. Watermelon!
16. Homemade ice cream.
17. Chillin' on the lake.
18. Picking berries at Great Grandma Gladys's house.
19. Play dates at the park.
20. Barefeet.
21. Flipflops.
22. Shorts.
23. Tank tops.
24. No make up!
25. Lazy days.
26. Fun-packed weekends.
27. Open windows.
28. Cool mornings
29. Warm evenings.
30. Corn on the cob.
31. Colorado PEACHES!
32. Camping trips.
33. Afternoon naps.
34. Playing in the irrigation ditch at Great Grandma Gladys's house.
35. Flowers in bloom.
36. Deer in velvet.
37. Lemonade.
38. Popcicles.
39. Lawn games.
40. No school.
41. Hot sunny days.
42. Swimsuits.
43. The smell of sunscreen (Alba is the best!)
44. Family birthday celebrations.
45. BBQs with friends.
46. Fishing.
47. Sunglasses.
48. Roadtrips.
49. Weddings.
50. Sidewalk chalk.
So tell me, what are your favorite things about summer?!
Friday, July 23, 2010
What a weekend it was...
This summer we've been trying to get to the lake at least once a week. We love to take different friends and family, especially those who don't normally get to go. Last weekend we went with my parents, nieces from Texas and my sister's family. It was a total blast...as you'll see from all the great pictures.
We did lots of tubing and swimming. It was the best place to be that day since it was 104 degrees in Pueblo!
We did lots of tubing and swimming. It was the best place to be that day since it was 104 degrees in Pueblo!
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Rainy day play date
Yesterday our church had a kid's movie day, and because it was cold and rainy we decided to go. Everyone brought a sack lunch and the kids ate and watched Hermie. I thought Nate was so cute in the middle of all the girls eating his lunch.
Nate sitting there only lasted till his food was gone. Then he was all over his sister and trying to escape the movie room.
This is my dear friend Kelly's girls. They were so darling in their matching outfits!
Nate sitting there only lasted till his food was gone. Then he was all over his sister and trying to escape the movie room.
This is my dear friend Kelly's girls. They were so darling in their matching outfits!
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
A Tribute To My Brother Man
I am jittery with excitement to go to OKC next week! We get to spend time with lots of family, eat at some of my favorite restaurants, take the kids to the waterpark, spend time with old friends, have a girl's day out and, oh yes....watch my baby brother get married!!! heehee
I laugh because my "little" brother is a foot taller than I am. And he is 13 years my junior, but that hasn't stopped us from being close over the years. Tomy is a special guy. He has a great big heart...great big talent...a great big calling...and a great big sense of humor. He makes me laugh more than anyone I know!
I always joke that Tomy turned out way better than the rest of us (there's three more of us) because there are 17 years between the first and last child in our family. After that many years, you tend to figure some things out. Parenting included.
But the truth is, Tomy is just special. That boy is smart! Plus, he's been blessed with raw, God-given talent. Anything Tomy attempts, he can do...and he does it well. That includes playing the guitar, piano and trumpet. Snowboarding. Wakeboarding. Playing games, pool and doing magic tricks. Taking pictures, making videos and creating graphic designs.
I've got lots of fun and special memories of Tomy growing up. When he was about 7, I took him roller blading on my college campus and he taught me how to use my brake properly. (See, he really is smart! And he mastered roller blading before his 20 year old sister did.) When he was 3, I took him to the park in the middle of winter and we skated on the ice pond in our tennis shoes. When he was 14, I drove him and his buddy to dinner and the school dance in our '57 Chevy. There were middle school band concerts, high school football games, and college visits. Days on the lake. Days on the mountain. Camping trips. Holiday meals. Guitar Hero. Games, games and more games.
But one of my most profound memories of Tomy is when he was 5. I was a sophomore in college, and there was a rumor that a certain gang was targeting girls in red cars. I had expressed my fears to my Mom and Dad, and apparantly Tomy had overheard. That night I was telling him a bedtime story, and when we started to say our prayers, Tomy asked me about it. I tried to be discrete about the details, but his reponse was so profound and a sign of the call that God would later place on his life. Tomy said, "You don't need to be afraid. God is always with you and will protect you. Nothing bad will happen to you." I've never forgotten those words from a 5 year old whose faith has only grown and inspired me over the years.
I always knew the girl who stole Tomy's heart would have to be special, too. His female equal if you will. God blessed Tomy with a wonderful, precious, lovely girl named Melinda. She is every bit as smart and talented and gifted and called as Tomy.
I can't wait to see Tomy and Mendy join hearts and hands in what I believe will be one of the most special weddings I've ever attended. I can't wait to call Mendy sister. I can't wait to see a young man named Tomy receive the greatest blessing of his life - his bride Melinda.
Tomy, I want you to know how proud I am of you. You chose the path for your life's journey very early, and I've never seen you waiver from it. Your faith is strong and solid and inspiring. You are so blessed! Despite what people say, the honeymoon does not have to end. Marriage is the most wonderful thing when you are married to the person God created for you. And there's no doubt in my mind that Mendy is that person. I am proud to call you brother. I love you.
I laugh because my "little" brother is a foot taller than I am. And he is 13 years my junior, but that hasn't stopped us from being close over the years. Tomy is a special guy. He has a great big heart...great big talent...a great big calling...and a great big sense of humor. He makes me laugh more than anyone I know!
I always joke that Tomy turned out way better than the rest of us (there's three more of us) because there are 17 years between the first and last child in our family. After that many years, you tend to figure some things out. Parenting included.
But the truth is, Tomy is just special. That boy is smart! Plus, he's been blessed with raw, God-given talent. Anything Tomy attempts, he can do...and he does it well. That includes playing the guitar, piano and trumpet. Snowboarding. Wakeboarding. Playing games, pool and doing magic tricks. Taking pictures, making videos and creating graphic designs.
I've got lots of fun and special memories of Tomy growing up. When he was about 7, I took him roller blading on my college campus and he taught me how to use my brake properly. (See, he really is smart! And he mastered roller blading before his 20 year old sister did.) When he was 3, I took him to the park in the middle of winter and we skated on the ice pond in our tennis shoes. When he was 14, I drove him and his buddy to dinner and the school dance in our '57 Chevy. There were middle school band concerts, high school football games, and college visits. Days on the lake. Days on the mountain. Camping trips. Holiday meals. Guitar Hero. Games, games and more games.
But one of my most profound memories of Tomy is when he was 5. I was a sophomore in college, and there was a rumor that a certain gang was targeting girls in red cars. I had expressed my fears to my Mom and Dad, and apparantly Tomy had overheard. That night I was telling him a bedtime story, and when we started to say our prayers, Tomy asked me about it. I tried to be discrete about the details, but his reponse was so profound and a sign of the call that God would later place on his life. Tomy said, "You don't need to be afraid. God is always with you and will protect you. Nothing bad will happen to you." I've never forgotten those words from a 5 year old whose faith has only grown and inspired me over the years.
I always knew the girl who stole Tomy's heart would have to be special, too. His female equal if you will. God blessed Tomy with a wonderful, precious, lovely girl named Melinda. She is every bit as smart and talented and gifted and called as Tomy.
I can't wait to see Tomy and Mendy join hearts and hands in what I believe will be one of the most special weddings I've ever attended. I can't wait to call Mendy sister. I can't wait to see a young man named Tomy receive the greatest blessing of his life - his bride Melinda.
Tomy, I want you to know how proud I am of you. You chose the path for your life's journey very early, and I've never seen you waiver from it. Your faith is strong and solid and inspiring. You are so blessed! Despite what people say, the honeymoon does not have to end. Marriage is the most wonderful thing when you are married to the person God created for you. And there's no doubt in my mind that Mendy is that person. I am proud to call you brother. I love you.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
9:02 AM
I should have posted this yesterday, but my mind is all over the place these days. I figured better late than never. Just like most people remember where they were when Kennedy was shot, so many people remember their whereabouts when the OKC bombing occurred.
Fifteen years ago (on April 19) at 9:02 AM, I was living in Oklahoma City attending college at SNU. It was my junior year, and I was just getting ready for my first class of the day. All of a sudden I heard a loud explosion and felt a shake of the building. Unusual, but I didn't think much of it. It wasn't until I walked down to the lobby of the dorms that I realized something serious had happened. People were huddled around the TV watching in horror the unfolding nightmare of the Oklahoma City bombing.
Numerous friends and classmates remained glued to the TV, knowing they had loved ones in the building when it was bombed. Knowing my family back in CO would be worried, I tried to call them; but the phone lines were jammed and we were unable to communicate for several hours. (This was prior to everyone having internet and email access or even cell phones.)
In the days that followed I was in awe of how the people of OK came together and supported each other. I, along with several classmates, volunteered in the afternoons at the Redcross and Feed The Children. Anything I could do to help gave me a sense of purpose in such a tragic time. I'll never forget walking downtown, standing near the bombed federal building - with its contents dangling in the wind, unable to process such a horrific act. Or driving down the interstate and seeing every single car with its headlights on in support of the rescue effort.
It's a weird thing to realize you've been closely involved with a major event in our history. We were all affected that day...us Americans...because it was a random act of violence that could have happened anywhere. So many lives were impacted with the loss of their loved ones (one of my classmates lost her mother that day); and yet so many lives were touched by the rescue effort of hundreds of people from around the country.
This Sunday, April 25, I will run to remember in the Oklahoma City Marathon. Along with 4 friends I will run the marathon relay and honor those lives who passed before on us April 19, 1995.
Fifteen years ago (on April 19) at 9:02 AM, I was living in Oklahoma City attending college at SNU. It was my junior year, and I was just getting ready for my first class of the day. All of a sudden I heard a loud explosion and felt a shake of the building. Unusual, but I didn't think much of it. It wasn't until I walked down to the lobby of the dorms that I realized something serious had happened. People were huddled around the TV watching in horror the unfolding nightmare of the Oklahoma City bombing.
Numerous friends and classmates remained glued to the TV, knowing they had loved ones in the building when it was bombed. Knowing my family back in CO would be worried, I tried to call them; but the phone lines were jammed and we were unable to communicate for several hours. (This was prior to everyone having internet and email access or even cell phones.)
In the days that followed I was in awe of how the people of OK came together and supported each other. I, along with several classmates, volunteered in the afternoons at the Redcross and Feed The Children. Anything I could do to help gave me a sense of purpose in such a tragic time. I'll never forget walking downtown, standing near the bombed federal building - with its contents dangling in the wind, unable to process such a horrific act. Or driving down the interstate and seeing every single car with its headlights on in support of the rescue effort.
It's a weird thing to realize you've been closely involved with a major event in our history. We were all affected that day...us Americans...because it was a random act of violence that could have happened anywhere. So many lives were impacted with the loss of their loved ones (one of my classmates lost her mother that day); and yet so many lives were touched by the rescue effort of hundreds of people from around the country.
This Sunday, April 25, I will run to remember in the Oklahoma City Marathon. Along with 4 friends I will run the marathon relay and honor those lives who passed before on us April 19, 1995.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Running Ready
In two weeks from today I'll be running the Oklahoma City marathon with some good friends and some new friends. I'm feeling ready and can't wait for a girl's weekend! It will be my first night away from Nate, and my first night away from my family in over two years.
Although I know I will greatly miss my BLESSINGS, I know it will be a refreshing weekend away. Can't wait to see my brother Tomy and Mendy and Amy...cant wait to eat at Abuelos...cant wait to sleep in...cant wait to celebrate at Mendy's bridal shower...cant wait to eat dinner without having to feed someone else.
Yep, I'm ready!
Although I know I will greatly miss my BLESSINGS, I know it will be a refreshing weekend away. Can't wait to see my brother Tomy and Mendy and Amy...cant wait to eat at Abuelos...cant wait to sleep in...cant wait to celebrate at Mendy's bridal shower...cant wait to eat dinner without having to feed someone else.
Yep, I'm ready!
Friday, March 12, 2010
The Pay Off
I started running for the first time since high school about 5 months ago, and training for my first 5K began about 2 months ago. I cannot believe I'm doing this! When I first started, it was difficult to run a mile. Now I am running 3 miles with relative ease. Tomorrow is the big day!!! I am so excited and not the least bit nervous. My next 5K will be 6 weeks after this one, so I am looking at this one as a warm up for OKC. My goal is to improve my time between races by at least a minute per mile. Here's to a big pay off!
Monday, February 8, 2010
Beauty Divine
Today I'm feeling reflective. Pensive. Anxious. Alone. There's just a mix of feelings that when you put them all together add up to a big jumbled heart.
I've been praying all morning...for peace, wisdom, guidance, strength. We have a lot on our emotional plates right now. A family member dying. A family member's unexpected passing. A family member's extended illness. Conflicting schedules. Disappointments.
As I was sitting and reflecting on some Scripture I had read, I became aware of a song playing in the background. It was "Beauty Divine" by Brandon Heath. I heard these words, and they spoke volumes to me.
"Quiet your mind...We're not alone. He makes Himself known in time. His own time."
I'm thankful for this reminder today. I am not alone. I have a friend who is "Himself my peace."
I've been praying all morning...for peace, wisdom, guidance, strength. We have a lot on our emotional plates right now. A family member dying. A family member's unexpected passing. A family member's extended illness. Conflicting schedules. Disappointments.
As I was sitting and reflecting on some Scripture I had read, I became aware of a song playing in the background. It was "Beauty Divine" by Brandon Heath. I heard these words, and they spoke volumes to me.
"Quiet your mind...We're not alone. He makes Himself known in time. His own time."
I'm thankful for this reminder today. I am not alone. I have a friend who is "Himself my peace."
Thursday, February 4, 2010
From the diary of a picky eater (name withheld to protect the not-so-innocent)
- No, I will not eat that lunch meat even though I devoured it for 3 months straight!
- Yes, I want a banana...and another one...and another one...and another one.
- No, I will not eat cooked carrots today...unless they are smothered in mashed potatoes...then I will eat lots of them!
- I will scream until you give me those blueberries...then I will throw them on the floor because I have decided I do not like fruit of any kind. Except bananas. I want a banana!
- I refuse to eat green beans even though I have always loved them. Not today. Today I hate green beans.
- Today I will eat steamed asparagus and broccoli...mainly because you never thought I would eat such things.
- I used to love bread. Now I will refuse anything that resembles bread.
- Rice Chex. Some days I love them. Some days I loathe them. Guess which one is today?!
- I will always eat pasta...unless I decide I won't. For now, I will. I love Ramen!
- Cookies! Brownies! Ice cream! Why can't I have these all the time? You are so unreasonable, Mom!
- Jerky! I love Daddy's homemade elk and antelope and deer jerky. Gimme!!!
- No, I don't like meat. Get that chicken away from me.
I wonder why my Mommy gets so worn out at meal time?
Monday, February 1, 2010
What a weekend!
We had a busy weekend with lots of fun activities. Emma went to a cheer clinic on Saturday morning and got to cheer at half time during the varsity basketball game that night. What fun! I did get pictures, but they have been taken hostage by Tim's phone. As soon as I figure that out, I will post them.
And in a moment of weakness, I suggested to my friend Amy and my future SIL Mendy that we form a relay team to run the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon in April! They said "yes" and had two other runners to join us in a matter of minutes. So I guess we are doing this thing.
It occured to me afterwards that perhaps I should run my first 5K before signing up for another one. Thankfully, I am just doing a 5K leg of the race...so here we go!
Oh, and the icing on the cake for this race is that my Mom and sister are going with me (my first girl's weekend in over 2 years...and my first time away from Nate overnight) and we will get to attend Mendy's bridal shower!!!! YEAH! I am so excited!!! Plus we get to see my brother Tomy! I submit this trip can't get much better!
And in a moment of weakness, I suggested to my friend Amy and my future SIL Mendy that we form a relay team to run the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon in April! They said "yes" and had two other runners to join us in a matter of minutes. So I guess we are doing this thing.
It occured to me afterwards that perhaps I should run my first 5K before signing up for another one. Thankfully, I am just doing a 5K leg of the race...so here we go!
Oh, and the icing on the cake for this race is that my Mom and sister are going with me (my first girl's weekend in over 2 years...and my first time away from Nate overnight) and we will get to attend Mendy's bridal shower!!!! YEAH! I am so excited!!! Plus we get to see my brother Tomy! I submit this trip can't get much better!
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Shhh.....can you hear that?!
I am alone for the first time this week! At first I was confused by what I heard, but then I settled in...comfortably...into the silence! Drinking a latte. Alone with my thoughts. What pleasure!
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