Nothing Like the Scenic Route

When I saw that the weather forecast showed sunshine through the end of this week - with temps around 60 degrees, I asked Julie and Kaela if they'd like to join me for a hike to Kentucky Falls. Unfortunately, Kaela had other plans, but Julie was game.

It had been about 10 years since I'd done this particular hike, but the route to get there had hung pretty strong in my memory. The cut-off for the BLM road is only about 45 minutes from where we live, but then it's about 16 miles of traversing through the coast range to get to the trailhead. No worries, Julie (and Syd) don't get car sick - and since I had an avid audience, I played a cassette tape of one of my all-time favorite speakers, Lori Salierno, when she spoke at Jesus Northwest back in 1995....that woman is amazing - and her message kicked off a very fun, positive day. =)

This is a picture of the vista as we climbed, climbed, climbed up into the coastal mountains. No, that's not snow....it's just the fog settling into the valleys.

After winding through the mountains, we finally arrived at the parking area by the trailhead - only to smell and discover smoke pouring out of both sides of the hood. Uh oh..... Julie and I figured we weren't going to lift the hood to demonstrate our vast skills of mechanics until it cooled down - so, hey, if it starts or not, we might as well go for a hike. (However, the entire time it loomed in my mind that "what if it's my fault? - did I go too long before getting the oil changed? - quick end-to-the-story answer to that - no, it wasn't my fault, we're pretty certain it was from the transmission failing)

So, Kentucky Falls is only a half mile into the hike - and hey, if you are going to drive that far (and overheat your car) - you might as well proceed past these falls and go all the way down to the twin falls at the end of two miles.....


It really is spectacular to be at the base of these two falls. One of them is very obscured by the shade, where the other was shining in the sunshine - you can see them both at the edges of this image:

The falls to the right - more in the shade:

The falls to the left - in the sunshine:

On the return trip (which was all uphill) - we stopped and played a bit to capture more pics of Kentucky Falls at its base





Upon returning to our vehicle, we were pleased to see that none of the dipsticks showed low fluid levels, and it was no longer stinking or smoking. It started right off, which was also a good sign. So, it would have been smart to not press our luck and return directly home, but oh no - we had different plans in mind. Somehow, we took a wrong turn - and by the time we'd realized it, we'd found our way down the mountain along a different path. We were not at all excited by the idea of turning back to the previous intersection and having to push the engine back up an incline, so we figured we'd find a main route soon enough. No such luck. And no map. And no cell service. Fortunately, we did start with a full tank of gas. Eventually, we encountered a woman walking along the road (exercising) - and asked her how to get to a main road. She told us we'd hit up with Reedsport in about 6 miles. REEDSPORT? Are you kidding? We were so far off from our original route...

I snapped a picture of a map of the route we took - if you look closely you can see Kentucky Falls in red - part way between Florence and Eugene. Somehow, we took a wrong turn and found our way considerably south.No worries, after a good laugh, we found that Reedsport had a Dairy Queen that served delicious blizzards - and were able to take Highway 38 on home - showing Julie the highlights of the elk reserve and the cute and quaint town of Elkton along the way.

While there were a few wrong turns and breakdowns along the way, I think both Julie and I would both say it just added to the fun we had. For sure, another great memory day....

"B" and Me

Occasionally John will call Brayden simply "B" - so I thought that made for a cute title.....

Another date night for the two of us.....once again at the theater - that's "our thing". Right before winter break, Brayden's class did a short unit on mythology - and his teacher read aloud PERCY JACKSON AND THE OLYMPIANS - THE LIGHTNING THIEF. Brayden really enjoyed the book and has been reading the sequels. He "strongly urged" me to choose that as my next audiobook to download on my ipod - as that's what I do when I work out. As you've probably determined by now, I'm a big sucker for fantasy and sci-fi - and sometimes these books aimed at pre-teens are right up my alley. Listening to them while I work out is a hugely needed distraction. I also was quite fascinated with the Greek and Roman mythology growing up - I still remember seeing CLASH OF THE TITANS as a very small child in a drive-in theater - and loving it. Interesting side-note - in our study of Genesis this year, our pastor noted that some of these very myths could have been based on the Nephillim that roamed the Earth prior to the flood......wild!

So, anyway.....back to the date night - I listened like crazy yesterday to complete the last 3 of the 12 or so hours of the audiobook. (And, no it wasn't all exercising - I wish!). I did it - so I was ready to take Brayden to go see the movie - just him and I. I love, love, love these times with him - getting junk food for dinner, spoiling him more than normal - holding his hand as we race to the ticket counter. And, having him clutch on to me during the scarier scenes.

As far as the movie goes - I think if you'd never read the book, and you were the right "demographic" - you'd really enjoy it. Brayden and I were disappointed that there were considerable differences between the screenplay and the book - but it was necessary in order to condense and simplify the plot. Just different..... No worries, though, we were super captivated throughout.

The great thing is, this is a 5 book series, and based on the box office results, I'm guessing we'll have some guaranteed date nights in the not so distant future awaiting us!

P.S. - Not to be outdone, John and Mikayla had their own special time too - roasting s'mores at Johnny Oceans - and picking out (yet another) Webkinz. They made up hand motions to their favorite "date night" song (Free to Be Me) - and altogether had a blast. No pictures though....=(

Birthday Lunch at Cornerstone

There's a group of about 10-12 women that comprise my "friendship circle" - in terms of ladies my age. This group (varying by a couple of people on each occasion, depending on who's the one being honored) tries to make an effort to celebrate each others' birthdays. Today was kind of nice because we got to celebrate two at once.....Amy and Nancy.


Amy's birthday was way-back-when in December, but it's always such a rough time to get together everyone. And, that's without the extra complication of her neck surgery and recovery. It worked out perfectly tying it in with Nancy's celebration.


And, Nancy - her birthday was last week. Two very extraordinary women that are very loved by all of us. As you can see by these last two shots, one of the best parts of these gatherings are sharing the hilarious cards folks give each other. So funny!!


Here's the group of us. Lisa Q. was supposed to be there, and she had nearly left the house when her daughter had to be picked up from her school with a migraine. We missed you Lisa!


Next up - Lisa S. - where shall we meet to celebrate you?

If It's Not Going to Snow.....Then Welcome Spring!

As I've been whining, unlike much of the Eastern half of the United States - the Northwest has been very warm in comparison to usual years. It's a classic "El Nino" weather pattern - and just like Vancouver's Winter Olympics, our results have been lack of snow. In fact, that week we stayed in Sunriver after Christmas is really one of only a couple weeks this whole season that they had snow - I consider it a huge gift from God that He gave us that special week of fluffy white stuff!

So, I'm giving in. I'm no longer hoping for snow...(though in Oregon, it has arrived as late as April)......I'm heralding the return of spring, which, we shouldn't be surprised, is coming very early. The next three days are supposed to be right around 60 degrees - and, I think that means I'm pulling out the capris. I'm super excited for a hike which I'll be taking with Julie and Kaela on Friday as well....there should be some spectacular pictures on that day.....right before the rains return. Because even though our snowpack is low, and the temps have been warmer - it still seems like we've had just as much "wet and gray" as always......

So, come back to us sunshine - and welcome little flowering buds. We've missed you!

Ideas Anyone?

Lovely ladies who visit my blog-

I am seeking ideas for your most successful womens' events put on through your church. We are trying to do a little brainstorming - thinking outside the box to try to attract more of the younger generations. More as to why I'm asking later, but in the meantime, if you've ever put on or attended a fantastic event - please share!

Gettin' Outta Dodge

I wonder where that expression came from.....oh well, it makes for a good title post for the weekend.

I'm sitting in the Schillings cozy living room, watching the DVR'd Olympic Opening Ceremonies from last night. The rest of the family is going to head out to watch Traig's basketball game, however, I've volunteered to stay behind so the three girls can remain here - and not be bored in the gym. I'm such a giver......

The dogs will be here to protect me as well. Baxter is such a cuddle-bug.
Ironically, while we've escaped here to the Michael and Michele's house - our house back in Eugene was used as an escape last night for Kelli and Julie. I gave Julie the go-ahead to use our drier, and after starting some laundry, (and with a few texts of encouragement), they settled in, enjoyed our pantry full of sugar-laden goods, and tv. (Though I understand our remotes were just a little persnickety with them.....) It feels good to know the house is being loved in even in our absence.

Sometimes it just feels good to get away. Even if it means just transferring my rear end from one couch (at home) to another (here). But, here means no rooms that need to be cleaned, or other chores begging for completion (except what I brought). It's a get-away - and we're very thankful for it.

What Happens When You Let Two Eight Your Old Girls Use Your Make-Up

They thought it would be a really great idea to try and apply the make-up on each other with blindfolds on.....this was the end product:
Scary, huh?

Poor Mikayla still had cheeks that were bright red this morning from scrubbing so hard to get it all off last night!

How thankful I am for both of them to have each other - may this sweet little friendship last a long, long time!

Womens' Retreat

Last Friday, Lisa and I hit Camp Harlow for the Friday night event of our church's annual Women's Retreat. Since Brayden had an early morning basketball game, and John had a Mens' Breakfast also through our church (not the best timing), it didn't work for me to attend the Saturday event. (However, I was able to sneak in to listen to one of our college gal's testimony - both Laurel and Darcy did so great).

That was the main reason I was there - to support the efforts put forth by the college students. They were asked to provide a fun, entertaining Friday night, and they totally succeeded in those goals.

These two gals are Mary Ann and Abby, impersonating their alter-egos: "Pam and Gladys" two tv celebrities with their North Dakota talk show (that airs at 3am!). They are so hilarious!

This trio did a fantastic job with worship.....

This picture shows me and Lisa with our dear friend, Ann. Ann's been a part of our life since 2006 when she was the leader of the Bible Study we were part of. Our group bonded tremendously. Unfortunately, we weren't able to keep that same group together, but Lisa and Steph H. are able to still meet with her on Wednesday mornings, and, in a fun demonstration of how life goes full-circle, John has had the great opportunity to meet with her son who is a college student at the UO. Ann has a huge heart for the collegians - in fact, it was her and Kaela who orchestrated Friday night's activities. So, while I'm not still in her Bible Study (I can't make that morning time work with my kids' school time), I am blessed to be able to cross paths with her frequently. =)

At the far left is Laurel - the gal I snuck in on Saturday to listen to..... - seated in the middle is Mary - our head pastor's wife. Our pastor has only been at our church for less than two years, but we all love them so much. I look forward to getting to know them even better.

Becky (on my left) and Becca (on my right) - are housemates - and two gals I really like.

And, last but not least, Kaela and I..... =)

So, that's the Womens' Retreat......a quick visit, but fulfilling visit!

AAA - It's Not Just for Travel Discounts

I've been a AAA member for the last several years - strictly for the discounts it's provided when we travel and, of course, the extra coupons we get that have saved us a ton at the local outlet mall (that you get when you are a member). Up until today, I have never used the membership for its primary purpose - which would be automotive/roadside assistance.

But, that all changed this afternoon. About a mile after hearing a mysterious pop, my van decided to betray me. I thought for sure the transmission had final failed me. It has been an issue for a while - and all of a sudden it felt like the car had skipped to third gear. It was making a terrible rumble, and I couldn't drive very fast. I pulled off and called John. He suggested restarting it, but we both felt like the "end was near" and a lot of money was soon going to need to be forked out to replace or repair it. Restarting it, didn't help, in fact the whole car started shaking, and we barely made it to the next pull-off. I told John I started to smell something, and - could it be - oh yes, it is a very FLAT tire. Whew!!!!! That, we could handle.


Since I've never changed a flat tire (I know, so bad) - and since I've had this membership that I've paid for - why not use it. And, by golly, I'm really appreciating it at this point. Way to go AAA!

Mikayla was quite entranced by the whole experience (after the initial scare of our van rebelling against us) - she even peered underneath the vehicle to determine where the spare tire was. The gentleman that AAA dispatched was such a nice guy, "Ron" - I felt totally comfortable with him helping us out and making small talk. And, of course, I felt comfortable not having to be the one to change the tire!

So, that was my excitement for the day. Here I thought getting my eyes dilated was enough excitement (and it would have to be the day that it was super sunny here!).....

How about you? I read on Sara's Facebook that the "Snowmegedon" has wreaked its havoc in her neck of the woods....(and, yes, I'm jealous). Also, any favorites among the Superbowl ads?

Superbowl Sunday!

About two days ago, John and I determined that the upcoming weekend was when the Superbowl was being planned - and we didn't have plans. The Whites were headed to Steph's family's house - so without them around to hole-up and be cozy with, we had to make alternative plans. So, we threw an invite out to the Quigs and Meyers on Saturday - and set out some "word-of-mouth" invites towards the collegiates - and this is what we came up with:

It was a house full of folks - and fun folks at that. We whipped up some grub - taco style - and encouraged everyone to return as needed to keep filling up.

In this picture: Becca, Julie, Kaela, and Kelli =)

Aaron and Will got thrown into this shot.

And, oh yeah - I was there too......

Aaron loves to mess with the perfect picture set-up....you'll note he's often the one doing the goofy pose. He couldn't resist messing with the boys in our efforts to capture them being silly.

Meanwhile, the girls took advantage of the gorgeous day outside (it's about time!) - and jumped away.

During halftime, while I introduced the girls to the features of the Wii Fit Plus - the kids, guys, and Heather - played a serious game of street football.

At this point, Heather had joined us - (in the center), as well as Cyrus - just next to Will.

Kelli, Emily, and Heather - posing right as the second half was beginning.

At this point, the Saints are up - and that's making the bulk of this crowd pretty happy. The commercials have been okay - lots of them focusing on men needing to reclaim their manhood - not sure what that says about society. It seems the E-Trade baby commercial has brought about the most laughter....

Post-game update: The SAINTS WON! And, this is my favorite image of the night, Drew Brees holding his baby boy. Brayden was able to pass on the trivia that his little boy was born on Drew's 30th birthday. So heartwarming, I am happy for Drew, for the Saints, and of course, the whole town of New Orleans which is overdue for some serious celebration.....
All in all - a very successful party, especially when you consider how little effort went into throwing it together. =)

Triple Date Night

Julie has been wanting to get us and the Whites together for a triple date since we've hit the new year, and tonight we were finally able to make it happen.

Thanks to Lisa, who was so kind as to come over and bring her kiddos for a playdate - and be the designated adult in the house - we were able to take off and head to Applebees and then hit the movie "When in Rome". Dinner was enjoyable, in and of itself, it just got more entertaining as the evening wore on. =) As for the movie, I thought it was really cute. In fact, I'm not even sure why it earned the PG13 rating - it was really clean and sweet as can be for a chick flick. It doesn't hurt that I'm a big fan of my ex-Veronica Mars, Kristen Bell.

When the movie ended, we giggled out in the lobby - even more so as Will and Julie posed in this cardboard ad for an upcoming movie.


Back at home, we brought out the Wii Fit Plus game - a newer update of the game involving the balance board. It now allows you to switch out players much quicker - a feature that was lacking in the original version. One of the new games on this version involves having your character in a chicken costume and literally flapping your arms to virtually fly from platform to platform. It's hilarious to participate in - and perhaps, even funnier to watch being done. Julie actually put together a super funny video on her blog, putting our silly movements to fast speed and music.


I hate to say it, but Travis' performance on this round of entertainment was lacking.....he just wasn't on his "game". Poor guy, the time comes in everyone's life when some young whipper snapper comes in and shows you up. Will has done that to Travis, I think...... =)

Excellent dinner, excellent movie - and of course, excellent company - GREAT, GREAT night!

Morning Madness

It's gonna change, by golly, I even threatened a "family meeting" to sort it all out.

I'm so sick of walking out the door frustrated with my children - and then dropping them off at school feeling guilty for not making the "best of each and every moment".

Why would I be frustrated, you wonder?

A few examples:

- pokey puppy Brayden - who takes 5 minutes to get down the hallway to just get started putting on his shoes
- inevitably, the call down the hallway, "Mom, do you know where my shoes are?"
- the shoes mysteriously being located at Brayden's "dumping ground" - between the couch and and the bonus room tv
- the arguing between the children - Brayden pestering, Mikayla over-reacting
- neither child able to determine what the clock says - and just what that means as to when we need to walk out the door
- apparently I'm the ONLY ONE who recognizes the sound of Sydney needing to come out or in
- while the children are old enough and capable to get the cereal bowl out, pour the cereal in the bowl, and even (over)fill it with milk - they can't quite figure out how to get the bowl to the sink when they are done
- the arguing between the children.....
- brushing teeth, "Oh, was I supposed to do that before we leave?"
- homework not done, and somehow that's Mom's fault - and if it's not, the tears of irresponsibility only serve to slow us down
- the arguing between the children......

Get the picture?

Here's the crazy thing - during the month of December, when we had the Countdown Calendar, the kids were perfect at all of this stuff - ready a full half hour early - BECAUSE.....they couldn't access the Countdown Calendar's activity for the day until they were all done with their morning chores..... But, somehow, now that we've hit 2010, they've forgotten it all.

Change is comin'......I promise!

Here We Go Again!

Braces: Child #2, Phase #1.
(It's probable both kiddos will need to where their braces for two different time periods...)

Mikayla chose red and blue rubber bands in honor of the Olympics. (We reasoned her teeth were the white in trying to maintain the patriotic theme). She's super excited - and between all of the "tools" the orthodontist gave her and the water pic I gave in and purchased (I figured the deal I got for $35 at Kohls was worth the cost in comparison to the potential cavities and/or lectures she'll receive for not flossing enough, or massaging her gums......) - in fact she's currently in the bathroom playing with it. (Whatever gimmick works......).

So, here we go again. Hopefully, it will be as relatively pain free and successful as Brayden's Phase 1 was......

Feeling Like A BIGGEST LOSER To Be So LOST In the Life of My Favorite BACHELOR, CHUCK

How about that for a blog post title?

There's no clues as to what keeps me entertained in the evening hours, huh?

Seriously, I find myself extremely thankful in these icky winter months for the cozy shows that my family follows in the evenings. On certain days that it just rains and rains - considering an upcoming episode of CHUCK - being able to cuddle up with my best friend to watch it - that's what gets me through.

When I'm on minute 17 of my workout, and think "Do I really want to continue?" - considering the plight of those contestants on BIGGEST LOSER - that's what gets me through.

As for BACHELOR - well, that's just a guilty pleasure. I followed Jake on the previous season with Jillian and think he is a really upstanding guy. Why he has kept Vienna on, well, that's beyond me - but haven't we all met folks in our life that act a completely different way depending on who their company is? I think that and serious immaturity is her story. My favorite is Tenley - and of course, that would have nothing to do with the fact that she's from Oregon - and actually has ties to a few people I know..... =)

Finally, LOST. Sigh...... That show is like a puzzle that those of us viewers have been putting together for the past five years. I love the depth of it - the challenge. It's almost its own mental sharpening tool just trying to figure it all out (not to mention trying to remember what happened nearly 9 months ago!). John and I had to hit the pause button a couple of times to remind ourselves what was going on, and what had gone on. These are the days that I love my DVR, and I love my east coast feed on DirecTV (we got grandfather'd into that when we initially signed up years and years ago before they offered local channels - it's a pretty fluke thing around here, as even employees of DirecTV aren't able to access that perk. For our family, who all like to be in bed by 9, it's a very beautiful thing). Tonight, we were able to watch AMERICAN IDOL, the premiere 2 hour episode of LOST and fast forward through the highlights of BIGGEST LOSER before 9:30.

And, yes, this is the post that I hesitate to blog about - because I can just imagine what might be rolling through the random reader's mind. But, hey, why start worrying about that now, huh?
=)

P.S. One of the only bummers about the east coast channels is getting their weather forecasts - currently New York City has had about two hours of snow already - with school delays/closures already being talked about. I'm not such a happy camper about this El Nino weather pattern that has kept us plenty gloomy - but has kept the snowfall at bay......ick.

Life's Seasons

This is from the daily devotional I read - since I'm big on the whole "seasonal" thing - I thought I'd share it with you all.

Life’s Seasons

To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven. (Ecclesiastes 3:1)

The beauty in the way God designed the four seasons is that, though each one is distinct, they all work together to bring life and growth. Spring is a period of freshness and new life. Summer sees growth and productivity. Autumn is a time for harvesting the rewards of past labors. Winter is the season of dormancy and closure. Each season has its own unique beauty and makes a significant contribution to life.

Just as God planned seasons in nature, He planned seasons in life as well. Life has its springtime, when we begin new things and look excitedly toward the future. Summer comes and we work diligently in the heat of the day at all that God has assigned to us. With autumn comes the fruition of things begun at an earlier time in our lives. Winter brings an end to a particular period in our lives. Sometimes winter brings hardship, but we remain hopeful, for another spring is just around the corner!

In God’s perfect design for our lives, He has planned for times of fruitfulness and activity. He will also build in times of quiet and rest. There will be times when He asks us to remain faithful doing the same work day after day. But there will also be periods of excitement and new beginnings. By God’s grace, we will enjoy seasons of harvesting the fruit of our faithfulness. By God’s grace we will also overcome the cold winters of heartache and grief, for without winter there would be no spring. Just as it is with the seasons of nature, these seasons in our lives work together to bring about God’s perfect will for each one of us.

Way to Go, Oscar

This isn't exactly the "yeah, it's February post" I had in mind, but when I read about this in our newspaper this morning, I thought it was pretty amazing.

A cat that predicts when the residents of the hospice care facility in which it lives will die. So accurate, in fact, that nurses know to call relatives alerting them that their loved ones will probably be passing away within hours. If denied entry into the patient's room, the cat will cry and scratch at the doors/walls to gain entry - and once it does, it curls up right next to the patient and stays with him/her until it's time.

My parents both have extraordinary relationships with animals - and I've grown up considering them to be more than just pets - or wildlife, but capable of enriching our lives tremendously. There's a reason God was so adamant about instructing Noah so carefully on how to save them all (species-wise). I've heard it said that having a beloved pet in someone's life is better than any multi-vitamin - or prescription one could be given, it really can make that big of a difference.

So, kudos to "Oscar the cat" in Rhode Island today. What a talent that cat has, and a unique gift to offer extraordinary comfort in a person's last hours, when even our own human nature would not naturally guide us to do the same.

A Little of This and a Little of That

I was just reminded that I haven't posted since Thursday, so I guess I need to get my act together. January and February tend to be a bit like that. Less posts per month as there aren't as many "preserve in the memory books" activities. But, for the record, (Kelli and Julie), I was planning on posting today - I just had to finish the ugly chore of paying bills for the month! =(

Rewinding a bit, Friday was a fantastic day with Michele - nothing over the top, but just super relaxing. We hit the 30% off the entire store sale at Old Navy and were able to score some "Orlando Bound" items. Patrons there nearly witnessed a catfight between the two of us over what appeared to be the last Mickey Mouse t-shirt (a size that would have fit Mikayla or Ellie) - but thankfully, an employee was able to unearth just two more t-shirts - exactly the sizes needed for Michele's two girls. (Note, I said Michele's two girls, as I had won and taken custody of the one we first found).

It was bittersweet as 5pm rolled around and everyone was whining that Michele and the kids had to go home (Michael wanted their company, afterall). It just goes to show how much we all treasure being together. Fortunately, for me and my kids, Travis and Stephanie had agreed to give me a pity invite to their house for the viewing of a Blazer Game with Julie and Will. I was kind of pleased when I wasn't the only party crasher when Aaron showed up too. (John was gone from Friday through Saturday late afternoon for a leadership retreat). I spent my time trying to shush my kids to shutting them in the other part of the house with the dogs - they were so wound up!!! Throw in their maddening pleas and requests to Aaron and Will for wrestling, and its downright embarrassing. Are they happy children? oh yes! Are they quiet children? Oh no!

The next morning brought another fine basketball game from Brayden and his team - and while watching, Mom brought up the movie, "Avatar". Her and Dad LOVED it - so she's been itching to have me see it. Only problem with that is my husband is anti-sci-fi - so he was not at all willing to go with me. Hmmmmmm, day to kill with the kids. Coupons about to expire for up to $12 in theater costs. John gone for the day. Travis and Stephanie game to go with...... Deal sealed. We didn't check the movie times until about 11:30 - both of the major cinemas in town showed the 3D version at noon, so the five of us literally raced to get to the theater ASAP. Unbelievably, after, what, 6 weeks? - at the box office - the lines for the tickets, concessions - and unavailability of seats in the auditorium shocked me. Fortunately, the Whites, kids, and I worked well as a team, and I was able to walk in with all snacks in hand just as the previews started - a real MUST for my movie going experience.

Regarding the movie- Well, for sure, I can see what the hype was about. I do think it deserves Oscar's Movie of the Year. I always think that ought to happen when the crowds and critics actually agree on a movie. If you are able to go in and put aside any stereotypes, religion, politics, or propaganda that you think the movie is trying to sell - I think it would be hard not to be "wow'd". I enjoyed it a lot. So did the kids, although Stephie got some rare cuddle time with Mikayla over some of the scary parts. I talked to the kids about some of the issues that might be of concern before we walked in, and they accepted the movie for the entertainment it was, rather than being "taken" by some subliminal message. I think I'll let it go at that - I sure don't want to spark an "Avatar" debate on my blog.

Needless to say, the timing was perfect - as John came home just about a half hour (of major cleaning time) after we did. The Whites joined us last night for some X Games and about 4 DVR'd episodes of "Flash Forward". I hope ABC continues that program - as the four of us are all very sucked in. This week, "Lost" - I'm so excited......

This morning brought church - and a visit from Will and Andrew - and later this evening, I will actually attend CCF for the first time this year......

So, that's about it. Now you can see why I usually just eliminate these kind of posts, it's all a bit boring - but at least now it's down in the memory books......

Time to Lighten Up......

Enough already of the heavy stuff.....how about some pictures to celebrate our "Friday" of the week (the kids have no school tomorrow and Michele and the kids are coming down to play.... )

First up, a picture of Red (sorry Steph) with John - his second birthday sundae (which he didn't even eat) that was brought to him with folks merrily singing. This dinner was hosted by John's mom - thanks for a great time, Leona!!!

All these pics were taken from my cell phone, so the quality is sketchy - but I thought this one to be post-worthy - what a couple of cutie-girls - zipping around the neighborhood on Christina's scooter....... =)

Then, this picture just reminded me of that greeting card line with the close-ups of dog's noses..... I love my Sydney.......

Finally, here's another shot of Mikayla, Mom, and Pansy. This time Mikayla is atop an English (Dressage) saddle - one of mom's. It seems to fit her style and size much better. Pansy and Mikayla are making strides (literally), however, Mikayla still needs to teach Pansy that the instructions should be coming from her and not Mom or I as we walk around the arena with her. No complaints, though - it is such a treasured time for all 4 of us (Pansy included, I think!)......

Surrender

Obviously, yesterday's blog post was very vague. I hope I followed up with anyone who was concerned for me that it wasn't a major crisis or anything.

In fact, on the contrary, sometimes circumstances that are so difficult for someone like myself to deal with, can turn into the most glorifying thing for the Lord. Because, any good that results has to be from HIM! And, yesterday, I can testify that on at least four different occasions, I truly felt the guidance, peace, and protection that only He can provide. For my part, this time I listened. And, I surrendered. And, I found myself taking paths I wouldn't have come up with on my own, and as a result - great things came about.

Not everything is happy-happy-big-smiles now.....but, some great things have come about and there is no longer stress in my life. Ah, the joy found in surrender.....

Conflicted

I spent a big chunk of yesterday really bothered. It stemmed from disagreeing with a couple of decisions/points of view of other people - and I think some of my biggest irritation is that it bothered me that it bothered me so much!

Why do I get so worked up about certain things? In my effort to prove another's point of view is wrong, I puff up my own righteousness (at least in my mind), and of course, disqualify the other person's righteousness - thus eliminating their claim to the "right answer". The good news is, NOW, this whole scene just plays out in my mind - and I'm able to recognize it is wrong - very wrong. But, it nags, it aches - and it reminds me when I wake up in the morning that something is still off.

So, now, how to proceed? Do I share my opinions directly (knowing they won't be received - as I've gone down that path before), or do I share my concerns with someone who might have the opportunity to make change happen. Do I defend my position strongly, daring to potentially offend, or do I encourage grace and restoration?

Ultimately, this morning, it hit me that I've been in these positions before. (Thankfully, not for a while). And, while Christians may find lots of things to argue about - those who claim they are following the Lord, are unable to argue with the clear commands God has given us. So, if I make sure that's what my heart and mind are dwelling upon - then, if or when a time comes to communicate, the words should be communicated from a basis of love. There's not a lot of gray area in the Bible about choosing NOT to love one another...pretty much, it's not a choice. So, I need to work on my own heart before I start fighting any other battles.

Sportin' Contacts

Today, I walked into Costco not able to read the sign at the end of the parking lot, and walked out able to read the sign clearly - without a pair of glasses atop my nose. Yes, this lady is wearing contacts for the first time in her life. And, I was shocked and pleased that it only took about 20 minutes for me to get through the eye appointment that brought forth the contacts.

The receptionist was surprised as well. Apparently, a first-timer doesn't usually walk out so quickly with contacts already placed correctly in ones' eyes. But, in many ways, I'm not such a first-timer, as I've been the one placing contacts in Brayden's eyes since the summer after his kindergarten year. That had to prepare me a little.

I can't say these contacts are "love at first sight" (ha ha, couldn't help the pun).... I suspect I'll request a pair even more breath-able when I meet with the eye doctor in our follow-up appt. next week. He gave me the sample pair, and I don't even know what they were.... I do appreciate being able to see well long-distance, but my eyes aren't as used to wearing corrective vision for things up close (i.e. - doing this typing).

But, all in all - a very good thing. I'm so tired of wondering where my corrective vision sunglasses are - and being totally limited to just wearing them when I want to see outside in the summer. And, gosh, it's nice to sit down on my couch and be able to read the DirecTV guide on the television without squinting - or trying to track down my regular glasses.

How many of the rest of you readers where contacts? If so, when did you start wearing them, and what kind do you wear?

This Weekend, I'm a Fan of.....

- a gorgeous blue-sky, sunny day in the middle of January
- friends willing to take our kids giving us a great Saturday date-day
- "carnita" tacos from Mucho Gusto
- 75% off clearance sales from Macy's
- hilarious birthday cards
- Wii Carnival Games
- Red Robin birthday dinners
- hitting a strike bowling (though it was a terrible game for me.....)
- Bello's couples massage =)
- "Meet the Parents" and "Meet the Fockers" (the third sequel comes out in July!)
- watching an honor student high school senior from Colorado realize she is Olympics-bound in figure skating.....
- Brayden scoring 8 more points in Saturday's basketball game... I really hate to admit this, but we are all super surprised by his talent this year!