I love relaxing mornings off where I can sit in my favorite recliner (an old blue worn-leather chair that plugs into the wall… yep, an electric recliner, it’s pretty sweet.), savor a cup of coffee, and ponder the thoughts and whispers of my heart. I’m such an introvert in that I really recharge by being quiet. I love people and friends and spending good times together (like last night, hanging out with the clan down at McMenamins), but I really get refreshed by taking a few calm moments to listen to the inner-thoughts of my heart, that so often get shoved to the side in the to-do lists of life.
Someday I want to build a house and include this quiet morning place into the blueprints.
Saturday, January 27, 2007
Thursday, January 11, 2007
In Pursuit of Balance
Sometimes this life gets going at such a crazy speed; my little brain feels like it can’t take it anymore.
I had a wonderful time at home for Christmas, enjoying lots of food and football with my dad. Catching up with old friends in our old hometown, and driving to Bellingham, Canada & Seattle to see many other precious friends. Life was at a good speed, maybe even a little slow.
I’ve been home for just under a week and have felt shot out of a cannon. Four days later, I’ve finally answered all the emails sitting in my inbox, waiting for me. Meetings, appointments, to-do lists abound.
Tonight was the first evening that I’ve actually done more than just sleep at my house. I’ve been out and about every other night. Mostly good stuff, but I’ve come to realize I do so much better when I’ve had some quiet down time. I’m very much an introvert in that way – I recharge by being quiet (& sometimes alone).
The crushing speed and demands of life made me feel a little overwhelmed and unbalanced today. As much as I really do enjoy my job, I desire a time in life where I don’t have to work so that I can continue to have a warm place to sleep and food in the fridge. Will I ever have the opportunity to make a home for a family? To keep a cozy and clean house? Cook meals for loved ones? Or at least have the time to make it to the grocery store before 8 p.m.? Some days it feels like such a far off dream. But I’m holding onto that dream and trying to learn how to stay balanced in the craziness that is called life. I really don’t think it is ever going to slow down.
I had a wonderful time at home for Christmas, enjoying lots of food and football with my dad. Catching up with old friends in our old hometown, and driving to Bellingham, Canada & Seattle to see many other precious friends. Life was at a good speed, maybe even a little slow.
I’ve been home for just under a week and have felt shot out of a cannon. Four days later, I’ve finally answered all the emails sitting in my inbox, waiting for me. Meetings, appointments, to-do lists abound.
Tonight was the first evening that I’ve actually done more than just sleep at my house. I’ve been out and about every other night. Mostly good stuff, but I’ve come to realize I do so much better when I’ve had some quiet down time. I’m very much an introvert in that way – I recharge by being quiet (& sometimes alone).
The crushing speed and demands of life made me feel a little overwhelmed and unbalanced today. As much as I really do enjoy my job, I desire a time in life where I don’t have to work so that I can continue to have a warm place to sleep and food in the fridge. Will I ever have the opportunity to make a home for a family? To keep a cozy and clean house? Cook meals for loved ones? Or at least have the time to make it to the grocery store before 8 p.m.? Some days it feels like such a far off dream. But I’m holding onto that dream and trying to learn how to stay balanced in the craziness that is called life. I really don’t think it is ever going to slow down.
Friday, October 13, 2006
... adjustments & yearning...
I am so very thankful for this little orange kitten sitting in my lap right now. Through some unexpected circumstances, I became a cat owner about 6 weeks ago. Who knew when I said yes to taking her, how grateful I would be for her now.
I think one of the hardest things about this season in my life is the inability to really rely on people. Close friends are wonderful, but they end up taking jobs across the country (or world) or getting married and leave you a bit lonely. Roommates are great – but they up and move on you unexpectedly, causing you to frantically find a solution to the monthly rent. I so long for someone to journey through life with – someone who is along for all the adventures, sorrows and changes. Someone who you can learn to lean on and trust, knowing that they are doing the same. Someone to come home from the grocery store to, a meal waiting to be prepared and shared.
Instead, here I sit – housing situation up in the air, a close friend on the verge of two becoming one, another friend on the road (literally) to a new life. But I also have a little orange tabby sitting in my lap purring. I do not want to become the crazy cat lady, but to have someone who relies on you and loves your homecomings is a good thing for my soul right now.
And in the meantime, I will wait upon the Lord. He knows the desires of my heart and I know His timing is perfect.
I think one of the hardest things about this season in my life is the inability to really rely on people. Close friends are wonderful, but they end up taking jobs across the country (or world) or getting married and leave you a bit lonely. Roommates are great – but they up and move on you unexpectedly, causing you to frantically find a solution to the monthly rent. I so long for someone to journey through life with – someone who is along for all the adventures, sorrows and changes. Someone who you can learn to lean on and trust, knowing that they are doing the same. Someone to come home from the grocery store to, a meal waiting to be prepared and shared.
Instead, here I sit – housing situation up in the air, a close friend on the verge of two becoming one, another friend on the road (literally) to a new life. But I also have a little orange tabby sitting in my lap purring. I do not want to become the crazy cat lady, but to have someone who relies on you and loves your homecomings is a good thing for my soul right now.
And in the meantime, I will wait upon the Lord. He knows the desires of my heart and I know His timing is perfect.
Thursday, September 28, 2006
It Pays to Research
My car, Sam, which has been a wonderfully reliable vehicle until recently, has had a bit of an upset stomach of sorts. Or perhaps it would be considered a cold.
I've noticed things not running as smoothly (and my gas running lower than normal) and then the dreaded Check Engine Light came on... dum, dum, dum...
After throwing away about $100 on it, my wonderful research papa discovered a recall on my car - with people describing the same problems I was having.
So, after many unanswered calls to the local dealership service department, I finally got through - and learned that I am covered under the recall! Yeah!
Thanks, Papa, for taking care of me yet again.
I've noticed things not running as smoothly (and my gas running lower than normal) and then the dreaded Check Engine Light came on... dum, dum, dum...
After throwing away about $100 on it, my wonderful research papa discovered a recall on my car - with people describing the same problems I was having.
So, after many unanswered calls to the local dealership service department, I finally got through - and learned that I am covered under the recall! Yeah!
Thanks, Papa, for taking care of me yet again.
Friday, August 18, 2006
Summer
This summer has been brimming full – it’s hard to believe that soon August will be drawing to a close. Where exactly did summer rush off to? These last few months have been full of activity, road trips, laughter, deadlines, planning, spontaneity, new faces and adventures, quick but much anticipated visits with old, dear friends. All in all, time well spent.
A few things I have loved about this summer:
Flip-flop Tans
Which is a sure sign that your toes have been free for a good part of the sunny months. Too many days in work boots is not a good thing.
Road Trips
Be it a spontaneous trip home, heading west to the coast a few times, an anticipated trip down to LA and then Mexico, they’re all good. (Minus the cramming 8 people into a truck twin-cab)
Lemonade
I have forgotten what a delightful treat this is on a hot, summer day.
Friends Getting Engaged
There is something so sweet about walking through life with someone, hearing and experiencing the ups and downs together, and then being about to witness such happiness.
Western Horseman
Check out the August 2006 article, page 42.
Thunderstorms
Being a true Seattleite, I miss the rain. So, when the high desert rolls out their lightning shows, I love it.
Which also brings me to the things that aren’t so great about summer…
Forest Fires
Much of the summer has been clouded in smoke. One of the larger fires being only 10 miles away. I’m so not used to this.
Funerals
Not the best way for a family reunion. I say the next time we all get together is for a wedding.
Rooster Cows
I don’t know what is wrong with the neighbor’s cow, but it has a problem. Not so pleasant early in the morning.
Farmers Tans
See Friends Getting Engaged. With this, brings a Maid of Honor dress. Not a bad thing at all, unless I can’t get rid of a few crazy tan lines. Fake and bake, here I come.
A few things I have loved about this summer:
Flip-flop Tans
Which is a sure sign that your toes have been free for a good part of the sunny months. Too many days in work boots is not a good thing.
Road Trips
Be it a spontaneous trip home, heading west to the coast a few times, an anticipated trip down to LA and then Mexico, they’re all good. (Minus the cramming 8 people into a truck twin-cab)
Lemonade
I have forgotten what a delightful treat this is on a hot, summer day.
Friends Getting Engaged
There is something so sweet about walking through life with someone, hearing and experiencing the ups and downs together, and then being about to witness such happiness.
Western Horseman
Check out the August 2006 article, page 42.
Thunderstorms
Being a true Seattleite, I miss the rain. So, when the high desert rolls out their lightning shows, I love it.
Which also brings me to the things that aren’t so great about summer…
Forest Fires
Much of the summer has been clouded in smoke. One of the larger fires being only 10 miles away. I’m so not used to this.
Funerals
Not the best way for a family reunion. I say the next time we all get together is for a wedding.
Rooster Cows
I don’t know what is wrong with the neighbor’s cow, but it has a problem. Not so pleasant early in the morning.
Farmers Tans
See Friends Getting Engaged. With this, brings a Maid of Honor dress. Not a bad thing at all, unless I can’t get rid of a few crazy tan lines. Fake and bake, here I come.
Friday, April 07, 2006
I love you, Papa
I keep getting harassed for not updating (sorry Dad & Kevo), but life has been keeping me in a sprint for the last couple months and I haven't had much time to sit and just ponder away at life, which is always when I get inspired to write.
Our season for the ranch opened up this past week and it has been great. A bit tiring (I come home at the end of a long workday ready to just crash, my brain still going a mile a minute), but it has reminded me why I am here. I love working with kids, especially watching the smile slowly creap onto their face after being here on the ranch. One instance this week - a young teen came for the first time and I could barely get a word out of her at the beginning, and especially not a smile. At the end of our time together, working and riding a horse, she has such a big, beautiful smile on her face, and she even gave me a hug at the end. Yep, there is such a reward in serving others in a way that energizes my spirit.
As I settle into the routine of the year, I am hoping I won't get so behind on updates. :) Thanks for giving me grief, guys.
Our season for the ranch opened up this past week and it has been great. A bit tiring (I come home at the end of a long workday ready to just crash, my brain still going a mile a minute), but it has reminded me why I am here. I love working with kids, especially watching the smile slowly creap onto their face after being here on the ranch. One instance this week - a young teen came for the first time and I could barely get a word out of her at the beginning, and especially not a smile. At the end of our time together, working and riding a horse, she has such a big, beautiful smile on her face, and she even gave me a hug at the end. Yep, there is such a reward in serving others in a way that energizes my spirit.
As I settle into the routine of the year, I am hoping I won't get so behind on updates. :) Thanks for giving me grief, guys.
Monday, January 23, 2006
Coastal Destination
Two weekends ago, a few of the girls, Gus (my roommates Jack Russell terrier) and I crammed into Becca’s car with the trunk jammed full of stuff, a full tank of gas, and enough roadtrip food to last us a week. A few phone calls the night before at 11 p.m. confirmed our plans for a spontaneous trip and we headed west with no clear destination except the coast.
As we headed over the pass towards the ocean, I was thankful I wasn’t driving. It was snowing pretty heavily as we hit the summit, but it slowly turned to rain. Ahh, I almost forgot what the weather was like in the valley – overcast, rainy, gloomy skies. But it was still a balm for my soul. One can stay cooped up in one place for only so long (didn’t I just get back from Seattle less than 3 weeks ago?) before you go stir crazy.
We hit up the small coastal towns (me being very thankful I didn’t live in a small coastal town) and spend many hours on the beach. Getting soaked for the most part. But also enjoying a rich sunset with the familiar grains of sand beneath my feet. So many memories of my year in Cannon Beach came flooding back to me.
Life is good when you are living it.
As we headed over the pass towards the ocean, I was thankful I wasn’t driving. It was snowing pretty heavily as we hit the summit, but it slowly turned to rain. Ahh, I almost forgot what the weather was like in the valley – overcast, rainy, gloomy skies. But it was still a balm for my soul. One can stay cooped up in one place for only so long (didn’t I just get back from Seattle less than 3 weeks ago?) before you go stir crazy.
We hit up the small coastal towns (me being very thankful I didn’t live in a small coastal town) and spend many hours on the beach. Getting soaked for the most part. But also enjoying a rich sunset with the familiar grains of sand beneath my feet. So many memories of my year in Cannon Beach came flooding back to me.
Life is good when you are living it.
Tuesday, January 17, 2006
The 4's
4 jobs you’ve had in your life:
1) Admin Assistant
2) Flower Arranger (I’m so not artistic either…)
3) Nanny
4) Horseback Riding Instructor
4 movies you would watch over and over:
1) How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days
2) Dirty Dancing
3) Grease
4) Sweet Home Alabama
4 TV shows you love to watch:
1) Gilmore Girls
2) Extreme Makeover: Home Edition
3) I have no TV service…
4 places you’ve been on vacation:
1) Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii
2) Vermont in the fall
3) Cabo, Baja Peninsula, Mexico (well, it was a mission trip…)
4) Oradea, Romania & Budapest, Hungary (another mission trip…)
4 websites you visited daily:
1) G-mail
2) Ms. Rich
3) Ms. Rich’s Kinja
4) Relevantmagazine (more on a weekly basis)
4 of your favorite foods:
1) Lasagna
2) Mom’s Potato Salad
3) Enchiladas
4) Steak @ Outback Steakhouse
4 things you would change about your house:
1) More square footage
2) Ability to control heat
3) Drawers for silverware and other kitchen items
4) Having an oven
4 favorite authors:
1) Robin Jones Gunn
2) Nicole Johnson
3) Don Miller
4) Kim Meeder
1) Admin Assistant
2) Flower Arranger (I’m so not artistic either…)
3) Nanny
4) Horseback Riding Instructor
4 movies you would watch over and over:
1) How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days
2) Dirty Dancing
3) Grease
4) Sweet Home Alabama
4 TV shows you love to watch:
1) Gilmore Girls
2) Extreme Makeover: Home Edition
3) I have no TV service…
4 places you’ve been on vacation:
1) Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii
2) Vermont in the fall
3) Cabo, Baja Peninsula, Mexico (well, it was a mission trip…)
4) Oradea, Romania & Budapest, Hungary (another mission trip…)
4 websites you visited daily:
1) G-mail
2) Ms. Rich
3) Ms. Rich’s Kinja
4) Relevantmagazine (more on a weekly basis)
4 of your favorite foods:
1) Lasagna
2) Mom’s Potato Salad
3) Enchiladas
4) Steak @ Outback Steakhouse
4 things you would change about your house:
1) More square footage
2) Ability to control heat
3) Drawers for silverware and other kitchen items
4) Having an oven
4 favorite authors:
1) Robin Jones Gunn
2) Nicole Johnson
3) Don Miller
4) Kim Meeder
Friday, December 16, 2005
Ahhh … Christmas time
I love this season – the joy that is felt in giving gifts, hot drinks sipped with good friends, beautiful decorations and the reminder of the paramount event that took place over 2000 years ago.
I am sitting in my room, snuggled up in my new wool blanket. The sounds of Pac-Man float in from the living room, where my roommate is attempting to beat her own high score on her new acquired Atari game. The smell of evergreen once graced our apartment, but that died out too soon.
My two roommates and I purchased a bushy little Noble tree we named Herbert, only for him to meet his demise a week and a half later. It wasn’t due to a lack of water, as he was replenished whenever he needed it. Rather, he was baked to death. Something was wrong with the furnace downstairs (we have no control over the heat; we get whatever drifts up from downstairs) and it felt like a sauna in our tiny little living quarters for a while there. Thankfully it is now fixed and we are no longer hallucinating of the tropics in the summertime. We are no longer boiling in our sleep, but Herbert didn’t make it.
Nevertheless, we didn’t let that dampen our holiday spirit. There are paper snowflakes hanging from the ceiling mimicking the real ones outside, and stockings hung with cheer. Gingerbread cookies and peppermint chocolates were made and devoured, and Roommate Christmas is happening tonight (dessert at a fun restaurant and gift exchange).
I have only a few more days until I fly home for two weeks as well. I am looking forward to this much-needed trip home. Time spent with family and friends is so precious to me and I plan on savoring every moment. Many more Christmas memories are waiting to be made.
I am sitting in my room, snuggled up in my new wool blanket. The sounds of Pac-Man float in from the living room, where my roommate is attempting to beat her own high score on her new acquired Atari game. The smell of evergreen once graced our apartment, but that died out too soon.
My two roommates and I purchased a bushy little Noble tree we named Herbert, only for him to meet his demise a week and a half later. It wasn’t due to a lack of water, as he was replenished whenever he needed it. Rather, he was baked to death. Something was wrong with the furnace downstairs (we have no control over the heat; we get whatever drifts up from downstairs) and it felt like a sauna in our tiny little living quarters for a while there. Thankfully it is now fixed and we are no longer hallucinating of the tropics in the summertime. We are no longer boiling in our sleep, but Herbert didn’t make it.
Nevertheless, we didn’t let that dampen our holiday spirit. There are paper snowflakes hanging from the ceiling mimicking the real ones outside, and stockings hung with cheer. Gingerbread cookies and peppermint chocolates were made and devoured, and Roommate Christmas is happening tonight (dessert at a fun restaurant and gift exchange).
I have only a few more days until I fly home for two weeks as well. I am looking forward to this much-needed trip home. Time spent with family and friends is so precious to me and I plan on savoring every moment. Many more Christmas memories are waiting to be made.
Thursday, November 24, 2005
Rejoice Always
I’ve opted to skip Thanksgiving at home in order to spend two weeks during Christmas, which I am very much looking forward to.
But it was a good Turkey Day, regardless. A few girls from the ranch and I had dinner at the home of a friend of ours, someone who moved to Oregon from Chicago partly because of the ranch. It was a feast, not only for our taste buds and stomachs, but also in relationship. It is so good to cultivate friendships and then come together to celebrate them.
To sit around a beautiful and bountiful table, sipping on wine, sharing of who we are – it feels so good to relax and rejoice in the small things that we have to be thankful for.
Rejoice always, pray consistently, and be thankful in all circumstances.
But it was a good Turkey Day, regardless. A few girls from the ranch and I had dinner at the home of a friend of ours, someone who moved to Oregon from Chicago partly because of the ranch. It was a feast, not only for our taste buds and stomachs, but also in relationship. It is so good to cultivate friendships and then come together to celebrate them.
To sit around a beautiful and bountiful table, sipping on wine, sharing of who we are – it feels so good to relax and rejoice in the small things that we have to be thankful for.
Rejoice always, pray consistently, and be thankful in all circumstances.
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