Reiteration

The essence of the christian life is knowing and walking with God.  

It is about sticking with Him when the sky is blue and also when 

it is filled with clouds.  

It is about pressing on.  

~ Greg Laurie

Beach

We spent a good amount of time at the beach last summer... 

because we could, 

and because we love it, 

and because it's an easy place to be!  

At least once a week we packed it up and headed west, 

returning hours later, sandy and sun kissed.  

Here are some of my favorite shots from our lazy days last summer...

One of my little boys with his Dad

  Zach's water baptism

Freckles and watermelon

I took this shot lying on my back... the sky, in all its azure!

A day at the beach with cousins!  What could be better?

Encounter

I could not resist... 

a post about this moment... when my brother and family visited in July.  

It was on this occasion, during a visit to the San Diego Zoo, 

a random and most hilarious encounter took place.

Women (strangely) dressed as trees,  

on stilts with long extensions on their arms. 

Our curiosity had us immensely 

intrigued and drew us in for a closer look.  

As we watched this performance, my poor brother 

landed right in the path of this "tree-lady".   

  

Now... Uncle Matt is a funny guy.  

The look on his face was one of sheer astonishment, and this episode 

had those of us who witnessed it, laughing out tears!!

Amazingly, I was able to capture of few shots dispite my 

(almost) uncontrollable laughter.  You truly had to be there!

Happy Birthday, Little Brother!  

Great memories live on forever!!

Profound Truth

"The Bible teaches that our biggest struggle in life is 

with God because we want to be in control.  

We want to be God."

Rick Warren

More Than Just a Fad

Take a look at this car I recently ran across in the mall parking lot.  

Notice the license plate cover in conjunction with the window art.  

Contradictory, yes?  I recently saw a bumper sticker that read:  

It is a poverty to think that a child should die so that 

you may live as you wish.   ~ Mother Theresa.  

Bold.  Direct.  Impactful.  

Interesting that both of these examples have the ability to offend.  

Personal expression, right or wrong often comes at a price.  

Geography Lesson

I'm so naive.  I guess in part, I have avoided it.  Yesterday, as I was organizing, I ran across a map of the U.S.   I stared in awe... oddly... as if it had never occurred to me before this moment.

  

I know I'm far away here, but suddenly looking at it this way seemed really far.  Could it be because this was the week (and they come with little warning)... the one in which so many moments were spent missing you? Something drew me into the stare, perhaps because I haven't really purposed to study the map since we moved.  I giggled at how struck I was by the distance.  

The kids have recently been challenged by Grandma to learn the fifty states. For every one they remember on a written test, they'll have the opportunity to earn a dollar.  Not a bad deal, I say. I'm reminded that I took that very test in high school, and quite honestly I'm curious as to what my brain has retained.  

What I know for sure... as I stared today, all I remember seeing was Ohio and California and the many miles between them.  Not real confident, if given the chance, I would reap a great reward (not that this challenge is an option for parents!).  

I'll have to try, none the less!  

Thursday @ Starbucks

Morning...  

I'm well rested and peaceful.  Warm sunlight comes through the bottom of a window pane at Starbucks, and enhances the relaxed mode I find myself in.  I've moved my seat because the a/c has me chilly, and the warmth on my feet now has me very satisfied.  There's acoustic music playing in this small venue - if even a bit too loud... and somehow this point amazes me, because despite so, it's in this environment that I have some of my best quiet time with God.  

I often intentionally park here on mornings that I'm down the hill early and have time to kill in between happenings.  And I love this time... and it has nothing to do with my fondness of their Cinnamon Dolce Latte.  Rather it's the fact that, here, I'm away from the throws of home... from the laundry and the phone and the list.  Amazingly, I can spend hours studying God's word this way.  

No.  This is not a plug for Starbucks, nor do they need my sales pitch.  But I do recommend you try it, or something like it, especially if you're looking for a way to make time with God a priority.  Maybe it works for you, maybe not.  Either way, I do so hope you'll figure out for yourself what does. Because time with the Lord is sustenance in this crazy world we live.  

Eighteen

Here's to all it's been, and who we've become trying to figure it out...

So thankful to be doing life with you by my side.

Happy Anniversary

I love you sweet William

In Search of Greater Things...

I ventured out today... on a mission to find (of all things) gourds.  Random, I know.  But cooler temperatures are flattering my propensity for fall... a reminder of my love for it, which in turn had me searching for my latest fascination... fall gourds.   

 

I ran across an artist who paints and carves upon these unique vegetables from the pumpkin/squash family, of whom I inquired where to find these very natural (I do so love all things natural) and quite amazing gourds.  She let me in on some info about a local gourd farm (the largest in the world - producing 300K/year), and so today I was on the hunt to find it. 

 

Right off the start I was a bit apprehensive as I was traveling in an area new to me.  I made my way on a remote stretch of country road, mostly through canyons and winding road which at times cut through reaching oak branches with the sun falling in at random places.   There were soft swails or dips in the road to accommodate the mountain run off water in rainy season (is there really such a thing here?), and to my surprise... I actually drove through a running creek bed.  Every now and then I had a peak of the surrounding mountains. 

I will admit, I found myself hoping for a break in the foliage, which created a sense of being hemmed in... claustrophobic-like.  I was also keenly aware that I might not have cell reception should I run in to trouble.  I pushed myself, despite these slightly uncomfortable thoughts... and as I did so, my fear was replaced with absolute awe at the beauty unfolding at every bend of this windy road.  It was the kind of drive you see in the movies, really... and as I trekked on in my journey, the only disappointment was found in my inability to fully take in the surroundings as I paid close attention to the road before me.

  

Happily, I did find the farm.  It was interesting to say the least.  To think that this farm exists solely to produce and sell gourds on such a level is, well... wild to me.  Anyway, It was good to have reached my destination, and a starting point in which to begin my return home.  But perhaps what was most impacting today was the ability, and more importantly, the blessing of pursing something, be if every so slightly challenging, and finishing it.  Should I decide to make the trip again, I'm quite sure it will be with much less apprehension.  Perhaps that is what today's trip was all about.  

While the details of my story may seem smallish, the accomplishment of conquered fear has me quite satisfied, not to mention, very pleased that I have something to show for it.

 

Forever Friend

This precious scene came in the mail a few weeks ago.

There wasn't a letter or card.

Nothing else was necessary.

Kate sent it to me.

And I cried.

She knew I would.

We've known each other that long.

 

Feel the Heat

This is what soccer looks like @ 105 degrees!  The coach's theory: "if you can play in this, you can play in anything".  I suppose that would be correct, and despite the heat, this girl had a great time muscling her way to the ball.  She admitted to me later that she likes competition. That will serve to keep her motivated... not that she needs much help!

Icy cold towels helped keep the body cool, along with tons water & Gatorade.

What looks like a thunder head is actually a smoke 

and steam cloud rising from the fires in LA.  

The extreme temperatures and dry winds are making their 

mark once again this fire season.

Waiting!!

To my sister-cousins, you've been very patient... 

Here I post pics from a special (and entirely too short!) visit with Laura and Jennifer back in July.  The girls were staying in Northern CA with their uncle, so we made arrangements to connect in the middle.  It was a blazing hot Sunday afternoon, one that had everyone running to the coast... which in turn had us creeping in traffic!  By the time we arrived in Santa Monica, the girl's day at the beach was near its end.  However, we spent inside an hour together enjoying some laughs and the goodness of each other's company. 

So glad we were able to grab that hour!! 

Thanks for looking us up girls... Love you!!

After we parted company, Bill and I took these two 

for a tandem ride on the beach. 

 We ended the day with Italian and giggles!!  

Fun all around!

Refresh Button

God's timing is perfect.  

My great friend Renee visited a few weeks ago.  I marvel at the precision of God's plan and the perfect ways He meets our needs despite our ability to perceive this (have I mentioned this before?).  Certain moments help to reset our hearts and minds.  Every once and a while I get it... Renee's visit was one of those gifts.  

Psalm 23:3 "... he restores my soul"

Renee is that friend who spurs me on, to embrace the 

challenge... she inspires me to move forward.

  

"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper 

time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."  Galatians 6:9

"A longing fulfilled is sweet to the soul..."  Proverbs 13:19

Love you friend!

Today's Simple Pleasures...

A satisfying hot shower for sore worked muscles.

Checking items off the list of Things To Do.

A phone call to Jen in the morning and one from Kate in the afternoon. 

Lunch date with a new friend.

Evening at home alone with son Ethan:

* Chose Your Own Adventure reading

* a game of Blokus 

* watching the sun go down 

* listening to the sounds of the evening - did we hear the same things?

* exchanging back massages

 * quality time

Starbucks strawberry passion tea from my sweetheart.

Relaxing jazz music.

I'm ready to call it a day... it's been a good one!

Decision

It was the first week of school and Bill and Zach were horsing around in the pool at the end of the day.  I sat and witnessed their wrestling match, giggling at them in their attempt to overpower one another, as if to obtain supremacy (the male race is such a mystery to me... weird, really).  Any way, after the match was over, Zach brought up the topic of baptism.  He informed us that he wanted to join the rest of our family at the beach for a proclamation of his faith.  

What joy!  Bill and I have wanted to do this for some time, and invited the children to also consider it for themselves when they were ready.  We were thrilled that each of them shared the desire to make a public statement of their faith.  

I am pleased to announce, last Sunday all five of us were baptized in the Pacific Ocean, along with thirty five others from our church.  

August 23, 2009... 

For all the world to know... praise God!  

Rain!!

It's raining!  

Praise God!  It's been nearly eight months without it - no kidding!  I sat outside under our loggia this morning enjoying my berries and granola along with the sweet smell and sound of the rain. What a departure... to long for the rain.  As I discussed the weekend weather with our friend Paul yesterday, he pointed something out... "You're sounding like a Californian", he said.    

Don't know that I'll ever fully convert, but it is nice to appreciate something from the old life in the new.  

Petitions

I wear jeans with holes in them.  Remarkably, I bought them that way.  

Yes, I know some of you may be concerned about the fashion trend it appears I've fallen prey to. Rest assured.  As I look back, I have always worn holy jeans, and well before they were all-the-rage.  I remember a time in my life when I literally wore through the knees of my favorite pair. I was a new mom, and madly in love with one blue-eyed baby boy.  Those blissful days were spent on the floor, playing and chasing that little guy around the house... on my knees.  

Hard to imagine fifteen years have passed since then.  That little boy now towers over me, does all my heavy lifting and keeps me up to date technologically.

And I'm still on my knees...    

5 * 7 * 10

Back at it again... the first day of school for our gang.  Summer seems to have been a blink.  With longer breaks throughout the year, the hiatus is more like a long holiday rather than the lazy summer our Midwest upbringing has us used to.   This year we're doing tenth, seventh and fifth grade (this was the only shot I managed to get in the hustle out the door)... and how did I get here?!  The thought occurred to me this morning that not many years from now, the first day of school will be nothing more than a grouping of precious memories.  That sobering reality has me jumping in more than ever to try and embrace the time we have together as a family. The quick pace of life has me focused on what sweet moments today holds.  

 

Permission to Come Aboard, Captain?

A little game this couple played multiple times 

while keeping cool 4th of July week.    

Halle took in all of Uncle Matt's crazy fun...

The two of them are not likely to forget the waves 

they made together on the high seas.

A Word Aptly Spoken

On a bumper sticker this afternoon:

Change is inevitable... Struggle is an option

Just for me.  

This quote, that is. 

It has me back to the contemplation mode.  

And this is a good thing.  

The absence of posting here might very well say enough.  

I'm coming around again after some months of unveiled grief, 

some unlikely surprises and the crazy curve balls of life.

Another process likely to produce growth.

I'm pretty sure of it.

The Wonder of Boys

Night Noises

Bill and I were sitting outside rehashing our days, the kids having just returned inside for showers after and evening swim.  A small bobcat jumped up from the vanishing edge of our yard and joined us as he strolled the perimeter of what seemed to be his nightly beat.  He had no reservations, despite the fact that we sat there, speaking audibly of him.  It appeared this cat had been around our pool before, as he strolled with confidence yet looked puzzled as his drinking hole was well lit.  I could see him meowing, although it was not heard.  Bill and I wondered if this over sized cat was a friendly type or a vicious meat eater just looking innocent. As he turned I called to him gently, he glanced and calmly walked off the edge.  Hmmmm.... perhaps that would explain the wrestling we hear as we sit out under the stars each night.  

Caution

Doing this:

May result in this:

But... if you're this guy:

You manage to find ways to do this:

and this:

and this:

Way to make the most of a summer stumper, Ethan!

You're awesome!!

Anticipation

Like cold water to a weary soul, so is good news from a distant land.  Proverbs 25:25

This verse describes the enthusiasm rising here as we anticipate the arrival of my brother and sister-in-law, and nephews Owen and Sam next week!!! Their upcoming visit is such good news, and knowing it's only a week away has us talking of all the fun we'll have together.  I'm sure the time until they get here will go fast as we get ready for them, and it's likely with all the fun to be had, their time here will fly on by, but I'm praying it slows down to a steady week long trickle, if only in my mind!  Can't wait!!

Plant Life

My camera is not home yet.  I had plans to pick it up last week, but never did.  Sadly, not a lick of today's wonderful Father's Day hike was captured in photography.  I'll be happy to have my camera by my side again.  

Here are some pics from my archives... shots from a recent garden tour Bill and I enjoyed on a saturday afternoon in the spring. 

 

Artichoke

Cliche

 

When it Rains it Pours.  It's a strange thing... the truth of it, no?  

In one week I lost my favorite bracelet AND my camera broke, and these after a cascade of much larger issues.  I was drenched in a matter of days.  

I will tell you, that while the lost bracelet can be replaced, the point is, it was my favorite. But the camera... that was The Icing on the Cake.  

Now I was crying.  After all the week rounded out to be, I thought I'd crawl into a hole.  

Good news... I found the bracelet in a random and unlikely place the following week.  And my camera is in for repair.  I'm picking it up today.  

Yea!!

Roots

I keep a single Buckeye nut in the drawer of my desk.  

There aren't many things to accompany it, and I like it that way.   

It's there, nearly alone, in full view each time I go there in search of something.

Once a Buckeye, always a Buckeye!!

With Age Comes Beauty

I picked up a book last week while at the doctor's office.  I was so drawn to it that I decided I needed my own personal copy.   The book is a collection of wisdom and insight gleaned from women in their elder years.  Yes, some entries are a little strange, but for the most part, the eloquence, depth and poetic passion of these remarkable women and their life experiences are inspirational.  

Flipping through the pages of this book encouraged me in that, while there will always be a struggle, I can exist out of control.   As women, we have the gift of pushing through the pain and difficulty for an often greater purpose.  

I'm so thankful that God is my source of strength in life's challenges.  

If you're interested, the book is called Wise Women - A Celebration of Their Insights, Courage and Beauty.  

Anniversary

It's been exactly one year today.  A year since we packed up our things and moved cross-country with a new adventure ahead of us.  

Yes, this year has surely kept us out of the box.... at times, I'll be honest, down right uncomfortable.  But for the greater part, many wonderful things inhabit our new life here.  And somehow, something about here and now (almost) feels normal.  

As I revisit all that has happened in this year of transition and the time leading up to it, I remember one difficult conversation between Halle and I that spring.  She was experiencing great sadness over the idea of leaving Ohio, and it was at that moment that I had nothing to offer... a time that I had yet to make peace with the idea myself.  I was wrestling with God. However, with His help (and a lump in my throat) I spoke words that were not only a comfort to Halle, but also to me:  The promise that our loving God, who had so graciously blessed us in life, would once again prove Himself faithful in ways we were unable to imagine.  

The journey that began last summer would - and has revealed that truth.

Now, one year later, acclimation still taking place, and as I continue to wrestle in new ways with what God has for us, I want to tell you... He IS faithful.   The name of this blog is a friendly reminder to me of the work God does when we are open to what He allows.  

His grace is abundant.  His blessings are bountiful.  His mercy is new moment by moment.  

Truth Revealed

What lies behind us

and what lies before us 

are tiny matters compared to

what lies within us.  

Ralph Waldo Emerson

Gentle Reminder

How easy it is to get held up on the past rather than stepping forward into the future.  Nothing positive comes of wallowing in regret.  This is especially true when one is not In The Word and focused on What Really Matters.  

I've been distracted, yet gratefully reminded that I must refocus and re-prioritize, and appreciate the life I'm living today.  Which leads me to the humility that comes (once again) in realizing God's amazing, unending grace.  Just as the Israelites continued to ebb and flow in their trust of Him, so am I.  Yet, despite my natural tendency to fear or doubt, HE doesn't hold it against me.  

Today I'm thanking God for the gift of life... and the changes that inevitably come with it... and for His grace that walks along beside me... even when I'm unaware.  

On being born.....

"Did you feel like you got a new toy when I was born?"  

This was Halle's question to me a week after her 10th birthday.  The dialogue started with a comment about wishing every day could be a birthday-kind-of-day. 

Little does she know... to her Mama she's "birthday special" every day.