And that's the truth....

Helllooooo Spring!

2010-04-08T08:56:00.000-07:00

Oh, look , I still have a blog. Haven't been here for so long that perhaps I don't even remember how to use it. But maybe I'll give it a try. Drum up some new followers. Blather on about some of the less boring aspects of my rather mundane life. So....here we go.

Currently have all our kids back in the house. Whitney and Travis put their house on the market and realized that it was easier to keep it clean and staged if they and their dogs weren't living there. It's all working out great. Four dogs can be a circus at times, but since we have no "real" grandchildren, the grandpuppies keep us entertained. Alex sleeps at the house but isn't there much. He's working two jobs and hangs with his pals when he's off, so we pass each other, get a quick update and a hug and life is good.

My mom had a small stroke in early winter, so we finally moved them to The Waterford Assisted Living. Not a move they are thrilled to have made, but a necessary one. They get great care. We had all hoped they would adjust and take part in the activities that are offered there, but instead they tend to stay in their room (except for meals which is a whole 'nother subject) and complain about how bored they are. *sigh* Had hoped for more, but at least they are safe and secure. I guess when you are 86 you get to choose what you will and won't do. I try to get over to see them every couple months.

I'm still working, Keith is still working, which I guess is good these days. It is what it is.

In February we got to go to Maui for ten days with Whitney and Travis and our friends, Gail and Roch. Nothing like a lotta sunshine and warmth in mid winter to make life better. Wish we could do it every year, but this way, it means that much more when we can get there. We saw all the sights, including the whales and got lots of beach time. That's as it should be, right?

I've become an obsessed fan of Celtic Thunder in case you hadn't heard. I am on their Street Team (now officially titled the Washington State Celtic Thunder Fan Club). That's a long story - really the result of requesting information about a show in Spokane. I have made some very fun connections with a lot of great people, including the lads themselves. Their music makes me happy and they are just incredibly nice down-to-earth people who enjoy keeping in contact with their fans. My husband actually started this obsession, so he only has himself to blame. He found them on PBS and took me to my first show in Dec. 08. Since then I have gone to two more shows, purchased all available cds and dvds and become rather busy keeping up with them on Twitter, Facebook, CT website, MySpace...... I got to visit with Ryan and George on their recent visit here for a PBS appearance. I have gotten notes and emails back from them - always very exciting. They're touring the US again this fall and yes I have tickets.....to three shows and one of those with Meet and Greet tickets. :) I am very excited to go to the show in Portland because I get to sit with all my fun Seattle friends that I have met through CT. Keith just indulges me....in a way its payback for the FIVE Smothers Brothers show I have attended with him.

No big plans for the summer except to get some serious sun time of which we have been sorely lacking of late. Maybe a trip to a Mariners game......they're supposed to win the league this year. I've heard THAT before, but still, Safeco Field, garlic fries.....that's good win or lose. :)

Ahhhh - Summer!!!!

2009-07-15T09:06:00.000-07:00

I know, I know, I know. I have been a blogging slacker of late. So for my many followers (all 6 of you - haha!) here is your update as to why I have been slacking:

Summer is my FAVORITE time of the year. Summer is also my BUSIEST time of the year because we go places and do things and have company and, and.... So far this summer we have had different family and friends popping in and out and have gone to Seattle and Montana and are headed for the Oregon coast next week. My niece and her family are coming this weekend and I am excited to get to play with them! Our friend Lauren is in town with her kids while her husband is in Iraq so I plan to spend time playing with them as well. Dan and Mishell will be back in Aug. and we need to get down to Eugene to see Keith's mom before summer is over. We have a camping trip planned in Aug. with our friends Gail and Roch, and one in Sept. with sisters and spouses. No wonder summer goes by too fast!!!!

As you can see from my Maui countdown, I spend a lot of time anticipating the fun trip we have planned for Feb. Condo is booked, watching for cheap flights (no such thing), shopping for summer clothes, planning activities and dreaming about sunny beach time! It's so great that by the time winter hits I will have this little escape to look forward to.

Also on the schedule for fall - my awesome husband is taking me to a Celtic Thunder concert in Seattle in November. We'll do an overnighter, take in the concert and likely a few of our favorite Seattle sites. CT is, well, let's just say, my favorite group, and I am very excited to see them live once again. (Went to their show here in Spokane last December.)

For those of you who followed the puppy saga - all of Sydney and Taz's babies found homes. Three of them are with people we know so we get to watch them grow up. They are so adorable, but rather glad I am not house breaking and training one right now. Syd and Taz are old and mellow like their owners so I'm thinking, why start over?

Well, wouldn't want to overwhelm anyone with my exciting life, so I will save the rest for another post. Hope you're all enjoying summer as much as I am!

The Strange World of the Internet

2009-06-19T12:08:00.000-07:00

I am struck lately by our obsession with all things internet. Now, mind you, I am not preaching here. I have fallen victim to overuse at times myself. And I tell myself that if I were not cruisin' the net while watching t.v., I'd just be watching t.v. which I can't stand to do without something else going on. For some it's just an outright addiction. And as I peruse blogs, Facebook, websites, etc., etc., I am feeling just a little creeped out by this whole "putting your life out there for all the world to read." I have a blog and at times, I probably say more than I should or than anyone would really want to know. But there are people who literally put every intimate thought on an internet page that any stranger can read. And people who "chat" with other people who have the same interests, but will never ever meet. Why do we do that?!

My theory is this: part of the reason is that we long for connectivity and we have become so independent and disconnected with people that we are satisfied with internet "friends". Never actually "talk" to them, just watch and maybe message them. It's easy to put a completely different personna out there and hide behind our computers. Another theory: we use it as an escape from what we really need to be doing or from the stresses of every day life. It's an avoidance technique. Neither of these reasons is really that healthy.

I'm NOT saying it's all bad for sure. I have reconnected with childhood friends, stayed in touch with people I would not have in any other format, allowed it to become my "letter writing" for family and close friends. It has helped me to get to know people I already know better and to find out we have things in common that draw us together. But it still strikes me as a little weird. Do I really need to know every detail of what's going on in the world and in the lives of people I don't know? What is it about the human condition that we are so compellingly drawn to all things internet? Are we that bored with our real lives?

Do you have sites you visit or people you chat with that no one knows you have? And why is that? Do you spend hours reading blogs of people you will never meet? What is it you are afraid you are missing out on? Do you not have enough real live relationships in your life? What is it about your past that you can't move on from?

Again, a disclaimer here: I ask this because I have found myself searching to see if I can learn what happened to people from my past. Some of them it would be fun to see again, but I probably never will and many I wouldn't care to. I have looked for people who share my interests - do I not have enough people around me that share my interests? I have sought out information about people whose lives are train wrecks - celebrity or otherwise. And thus, my curiosity about our human curiosity.... something to ponder.

Ahhh.....Summer

2009-06-12T21:04:00.001-07:00

I haven't blogged much lately because I am too busy enjoying my favorite time of the year. We have been having awesome summer weather! I love wearing shorts or skirts and flip flops. No bundling. No goosebumps. No snow. No bad roads. Beautiful loooonnng sunny days! I love summer!!!! I know it's not officially summer yet, but we have had enough temps in the 80's to make it feel like summer is here to stay.

It makes my day to have just a half hour or 45 minutes to sit out on the deck in the mid morning with iced tea and my MP3 for tunes. It totally energizes me. It makes me have a very upbeat positive outlook to meet the challenges of the day. I think, I pray, I rest. It makes me grateful.

I know, I know....I should feel that way every day. But something about summer just makes it easier for me. And I'm hoping for a long, hot one!!!

"Outside the Walls"

2009-06-01T12:21:00.000-07:00

I have to admit that I am still a little in awe of the "success" of Timberview's "Outside the Walls" project yesterday. Over 300 people turned out to do service projects in the community in Jesus' name. I haven't heard all the stories yet, but I want to share about my experience.

Our team volunteered at our nearby high school -Mt. Spokane where our kids attended (and graduated she added proudly!). Our hope was to be able to reside, paint, and build a new door for an athletic shed much in need of repair. With the help of donations from our local lumber store, Ziggy's (thank you very much, Dean and Vern), several guys on our team did the carpentry work and then others painted (two coats!) all siding and trim (navy blue and maroon - school colors, of course). We had enough people to also scour the entire property for trash and also a team that did weeding under the bleachers (not the most pleasant job, but done with great enthusiasm!). Three guys also did an entire cleanup up of the baseball dugouts and improved the walkways, as well as hauling off the collected trash and some other no longer needed items. Our whole team was awesome and I think everyone loved the experience. One student from our church youth group came BY HIMSELF (no support from friends or family and he didn't know any of us) and jumped in and worked so hard side by side with the team. Keith and Travis both talked to him and I was told he is a senior at the school and just wanted to get involved with the project and just wanted to give back!!! As Pastor Glenn would say, "HOW COOL IS THAT!?"

One of the most rewarding parts, of course, was when the Mt. Spokane baseball coach arrived with his team for a game. He was amazed and so grateful. He wanted a list of names so he could thank each team member individually. He has gotten parent volunteers at times, but NEVER a church group willing to give up a Sunday. Impressed doesn't describe his reaction.

I think "Outside the Walls" spoke volumes about the heart of Timberview. I think it said WAY more than Pastor Glenn could ever say on a Sunday. It put us out there with folks who might never be exposed to church life any other way. It said we are about putting our faith into action. Can't wait to hear about the ripple effects of this unconventional ministry!

Summer Reading

2009-05-30T15:10:00.000-07:00

So earlier this year, I was silly enough to make a top ten list for 2010. On that list, I mentioned that I wanted to read one book a month. Well, here we are, first of June and I have read three. Now if you count Bible books, I'm in good shape. But that's not the reading I was talking about. I think it's very easy these days to depend on electronic media to enlighten and entertain us. I still think it's important and enjoyable to actually sit down with a hard copy and read. Thus, my commitment to make more time to do it.

My current read is "Cast of Characters" by Max Lucado. Max is one of my favorite wordsmiths - puts spiritual things into down to earth words that still point toward heaven. This is a great read because it is broken into short chapters about different Bible characters. I can read a chapter or two in a very short amount of time and will likely be able to get through the whole book without forgetting the plot while I take too long a break between reading experiences.

I was especially captivated by his chapter on Matthew. The tax collector. The shady character that was considered a pariah in his society. The one that hung out with roughians. The one whose friends Jesus wanted to meet, so told Matthew to throw a party for them. The one to whom Jesus said, "Follow me" and he followed.

Max says it better than I could, so forgive the lengthy quote. But it's a good one!

"Quite a story. Matthew goes from double dealer to disciple. He throws a party that makes the religious right uptight, but Jesus proud..... What do we do with it? That depends on which side of the tax collector's table you find yourself. You and I are Matthew. Don't give me that look. There's enough hustler in the best of us to qualify for Matthew's table. Maybe you've never taken taxes, but you've taken liberty with the truth, taken credit that wasn't yours, taken advantage of the weak. You and me? Matthew. If you're still at the table, you receive an invitaion. "Follow me." So what if you've got a rube reputation? So did Matthew. You may end up writing your own gospel. If you've left the table, you receive a clarification. You don't have to be weird to follow Jesus. You don't have to stop liking your friends to follow Him. Just the opposite. A few introductions would be nice. Do you know how to grill a steak?"

"Sometime ago I was asked to play a game of golf. The foursome included two preachers, a church leader and a 'Matthew, B.C.' The thought of four hours with three Christians, two of whom were pulpiteers , did not appeal to him. I'm happy to report that he proclaimed the experience painless. On the ninth hole he turned to one of us and said, 'I'm glad you guys are normal.' I think he meant this: 'I'm glad you didn't get in my face or club me with a King James driver. Thanks for laughing at my jokes and telling a few yourself. Thanks for being normal.' We didn't lower our standards. We were nice. Normal and nice."

"Discipleship is sometimes defined by being normal. A woman in a small Arkansas community was a single mom with a frail baby. Her neighbor would stop by every few days and keep the child so she could shop. After some weeks her neighbor shared more - she shared her faith. The friends of the young mother objected. 'Don't you know what those people teach?' 'Here is what I know,' she told them. 'They held my baby.'

Normal and nice. Sinners and saints in the same room. I know how to grill a steak. I know how to hold babies. I think Jesus would like that answer.

Sydney's Babies are Growing Up

2009-05-24T15:57:00.000-07:00

The babies aren't so much babies anymore. Five weeks, running everywhere, chewing on anything, getting into all kinds of mischief.....but SOOOO adorable. I spend way too much time playing with them - on the premise, of course, that they need to be socialized for their new owners. In a week or so, the ad will go in the paper and around 7-8 wks. hopefully they will all be gone. Quick - before I get attached. My mantra: "They grow up to be dogs; big, hairy, dirty dogs....."

Seattle Sunshine

2009-05-23T16:25:00.000-07:00

Spent the last two days in the "big city" of Seattle. Seattle in the sunshine is exquisitely beautiful like no other city. The sun on all that water, the varigated shades of green from the overgrowth of plant life, row upon row of sailboat masts in the sound, cruise ships docked at the piers, the outline of the space needle, snow capped Mt. Rainier in the distance. Incredible.

We took a road trip to Seattle with our friends the Teals to take in a Mariners game at Safeco Field. Granted, the game was not heart stopping by any means - the Mariners lost to the Angels. But there is just something fun about being inside the ballpark, taking in the sights and sounds. And the garlic fries and BBQ pork sandwiches aren't bad either.

On Thursday we had lunch on the pier at Anthony's, then walked through Pike Street Market, and even had coffee at the original Starbucks. It's always fun to people watch in downtown Seattle. And there was even a demonstration; something to do with being green, saving the endangered species, biofuels, etc. - SOOOO Seattle. On Friday we ventured to Ikea - always a Seattle hotspot - and had lunch at Maggie Bluff's on Elliot Bay. We sat outside and enjoyed the awesome view of the Seattle sound with downtown skyscrapers in the background. One of my favorite dining establishments (pictured above).

All in all, it was a very delightful and refreshing time. I won't even mention the traffic jam on Snoqualmie that took us three hours to navigate. With good friends to visit with, the time went by reasonably fast. I'm ready to go back, and I just got home.

And They're Off.......

2009-05-17T21:56:00.001-07:00

Now that the weather is nice, the puppies love to be out in the yard, prancing, climbing, wrestling, exploring.... It's a bit of a chore to get them all out and back in, but it's very fun to watch them play. Two have homes and new names. Two to three more weeks and hopefully they will all be settled in with new families. The best kind of puppies - ones you can spoil and love and pass on to someone else to raise.

A Sad Day in Idol Land

2009-05-14T10:11:00.000-07:00

I am addicted to American Idol. Granted, I could do without some of the hoopla filler stuff that they do to make the show longer and "more exciting", but I love watching the contestants sing their hearts out. This season has been the most interesting yet, with the field of talent being exceptional. From early auditions I have followed the story of Danny Gokey. He is a church music director from Milwaukee. His wife died of a heart condition 10 months ago. He has a foundation for kids in his wife's name; it's called Sophia's Heart. I found Danny charming and humble and amazingly talented.

Though he's had a great run and made it to the top three, he was eliminated last night. They showed his hometown visit and did a recap of his Idol adventure. I actually shed tears! Though bittersweet, in a way it's better for him not to be under the Idol contract and be able to make his own recording deal and do music his own way. I will purchase whatever he produces as I love his voice and his story.

So now we're down to Adam and Kris. Adam is not my cup of tea, though the kid has pipes. I will be rooting for Kris, another humble family guy who sings my kind of music. One more week and I will have to find something else to do with my Tuesday and Wednesday nights. And that's not all bad.

Their Eyes Are Open!

2009-05-08T16:41:00.000-07:00

Back by popular demand.....the Gang. None to thrilled about being photographed. They are really getting fun now with more playfulness in their box and the occasional bark or growl. Syd is spending less time with them and they rely on each other to be playmates as well as pillows. Next few days they will start on some solid food - let the fun begin.

Looks like Penny will likely have bright blue eyes, Bailey may have one brown and one blue. Part of the fun of Aussies is how different they all look. Even the three tri-colors have very distinct markings. Two definitely have homes and possibly a third. And that's the way we like it....uh-huh, uh-huh.

Cause to Celebrate

2009-05-04T13:55:00.000-07:00

Had my five year checkup with my oncologist this morning. FIVE YEARS cancer free! No more blood draws, CTs, x-rays, drug side effects, six month visits to see him. At my last visit we had had a discussion about the fact that Tamoxifen (my nasty drug of choice) is no longer effective for recurrance odds after five years, and we talked about me doing another drug for a few years as a security blanket. Since that visit he had done a lot of research about whether there would be any advantage in that protocol and told me today that the side effects would outweigh the benefits and evidence didn't support the added years of drug therapy making you live any longer. He said it was my choice, but he and his nurse practioner both agreed that they would not start the Arimidex if they were in my shoes. The Tamoxifen has been leaching on my bones a bit and while I don't have osteoporosis, he could see evidence on the bone density scan. Nothing a healthy diet, long bone exercise and a calcium supplement won't correct. But taking the Arimidex would likely only contribute to thinning bones.

I look back over the five years and am extremely grateful that my life is so healthy and full now. Overall I feel better now than I did before I went through treatment. There are some lingering consequences that I have to live with, but they are minor in comparison to losing my life. While I know that our days are in God's hands, I am grateful for the extra time I have. I can't even fathom how great heaven will be, but I also know that life here is amazing (well most of the time) as well and I'm happy to be living it.

Let's party!!!!

Our Friends are Getting Old

2009-05-02T22:46:00.000-07:00

Tonight we attended the 60th birthday bash of our friend Jim Peterson. We have know Jim and Linda for something like 25 years. Keith called on Linda at one of the big pediatric offices in town. They helped us find our house in Colbert, where they became our neighbors just two houses away. Their kids babysat our kids. Then they had a surprise #3 son , Nick, who is just a year older than our youngest, Alex. The boys were friends growing up. Jim and Linda were like Alex's other parents. He even went on a vacation to Mexico with them. (And they have a few stories to tell!)

When you know Jim and Linda you are automatically adopted into their HUGE extended family. We know their parents, their siblings, their aunts, uncles, cousins. They are all so much fun to spend time with. We have watched our kids grow up, graduate, get married, have babies (well, their kids, not ours yet on the baby thing). Even though they live so close, we don't see each other all that often. But when we do, it's like we've never been apart.

It was a grand evening where so many, including their kids, gave tribute to Jim. Alex had such a great time catching up with Grandma Pat, the Peterson clan, including his "adopted" brother and sister, Corey and Rebecca, all the cousins, nieces and nephews. I am grateful to their influence in his life. Just goes to show, one never has too much family.

60 - sheesh!!! That sounds old. Must be our friends are much older than we are. Happy birthday, Jim.

The Latest Puppy Pics

2009-04-29T17:39:00.000-07:00

Sydney's little darlings are now ten days old. They still specialize in eating and sleeping, but they are also practicing barking and growling and exploring their box. They LOVE being cuddled and we are happy to oblige. Soon they will be too busy to be bothered with that.

In order of appearance from top to bottom: Kanga, Roo, Penny, Bailey, and Boomer. More photos of the gang when their eyes open in a few days.

Puppy Update

2009-04-24T08:58:00.000-07:00

Our sweet little babies are growing like weeds! I will post more pics in a couple days, but in the meantime, here is Sydney with her little posse. She is so proud! And she is very good at counting them. She knows when we have abducted one or two and isn't happy until all five are accounted for. She's an awesome mama.

Sydney's Little Charmers

2009-04-19T13:54:00.000-07:00

Though it was a late night/early morning arrival, Sydney did a great job of bringing her five darling pups into the world without an ounce of help. We had had her x-rayed and they predicted four. After four we all went to bed. This morning there were five!! They are all very healthy and eating like pigs!! We have one blue merle female, one red merle female, two tri-color females and one tri-color male. They are all sooo snuggly! I only posted pics of the two merles and one of the tris as Sydney was getting impatient with me stealing her babies. You can be sure there will be many more photos to come.

Secrets and Lies

2009-04-16T08:50:00.000-07:00

Isn't that a movie title? The topic is an interesting one for me as of late, so I thought I'd attempt to sort out my thoughts about secrets.

While I'm not one who likes the whole idea of having secrets at all, I suppose there are good and bad secrets. There are secrets kept in order to bless someone with a happy surprise, like surprise 50th birthday parties. Oh, that's not a good example of a good secret, because I don't enjoy surprise parties. But some do, and that would be a good secret. There are good secrets that are kept so that someone else can reveal them at the best time for them; joyful occasions such as engagement or pregnancy. I, for one, hope that when my daughter is pregnant, she will not keep it a secret for long. But that's just me. Where I work, I am forced to keep secrets in order to not break the rule of confidentiality. You just don't tell what happens in a church setting. Period. Good or bad. But I have a hard time with secrets that cause me to lie to keep them, whether good or bad. I have found it best just not to say anything at all because I am a lousy liar anyway, but at times I have felt backed into a corner in order to lead people away from discovering a secret.

But what I'm struggling most with is other kinds of secrets. The ones where it is not clear-cut whether keeping the secret is good or bad. Currently I know two pretty big secrets that I wish I didn't know. One is about something that happened in the past and I can discern that it wouldn't do anyone any good to share it. The other seems a ridiculous secret that I can't understand the big deal about keeping it a secret. Both are secrets about things that people shouldn't be doing. They are attempting to cover up something.

Just this week my Precept study in II Samuel was all about David's big secret. He got involved in something he should not have. And instead of fessing up and asking forgiveness from God and the parties involved, he did a major cover up job. You can read the whole snowball effect of David's secret in II Sam. 11 & 12. It resulted in lies, and more lies, and plotting, and eventually murder. There were huge consequences not only for him, but there were ripples of consequences for so many others.

It seems to me that MOST secrets are to cover something up, to save face, to hide out so that people can continue to do what they want rather than what they should. These are a great burden for others who know the secret. I once had to confront a friend about a secret relationship and it didn't end well. My friend no longer has anything to do with me. There is a difference between hiding out and just sharing something in confidentiality. I have no problem keeping conversations to myself in order to be of help to someone who's struggling or just needs to vent. But I feel a sense of obligation to confront bad secrets head on. They are often just the snowflake in a huge snowball of destruction that is to come.

Well, not sure I've got it all figured out yet. Some secrets are easy to keep and some are hard. Wish I didn't have to keep ANY. Wish people didn't put themselves in the position of needing to keep bad secrets. Wish it wasn't my responsibility to respond or intervene (i.e. Nathan the prophet in II Sam.). Found a couple quotes I think are true about secret keeping:

"Nothing weighs on us so heavily as a secret." Jean de LaFontaine, French poet

"Where secrecy or mystery begins, vice or roguery is not far off." Samuel Johnson

"Three can keep a secret if two are dead." Benjamin Franklin

Extremes of Dark and Light

2009-04-09T20:25:00.000-07:00

Easter. I love the fact that Easter, like Christmas, is really a big party that's all about Jesus. It's totally a celebration of new life that includes bunnies and eggs and baskets and pastel dresses. It's a party!! I love the joyful part that comes with Easter Sunday morning. The putting on the party clothes and going to the party (church) where we sing happy songs about Jesus' coming back to life. The having a fun family dinner with ham and scalloped potatoes and deviled eggs. It's a happy, happy day.

But there is this other part of the Easter event that comes before the party. It's the dark side that includes remembering that Jesus had to lose His life to get it back. It's the part that many of us might give fleeting thought to as we approach the Easter Sunday party. It's the part that I must acknowledge before I can truly celebrate. It's knowing that He willingly gave up His life so I could have mine. And it didn't happen in a pretty way. There was pain, there was suffering, there was separation, there was sadness. But if there weren't that, the party wouldn't mean much, would it?

And so, we go to Good Friday service first. It's a heavy occasion where we focus on the dark side. We acknowledge, we remember, we confess. Why do we do it? Because if we didn't, we wouldn't be able to enjoy the party in the same way. It's like coming out of the blackest dark into the brightest bright sun. It's much like a glorious warm spring day after a long, cold winter. It's so much sweeter after having gone through the bitter part.

I embrace the contrast. Tomorrow is a heavy day. And then comes the party!!

Happy Easter!!!

Heellloooo, SPRING!

2009-04-06T09:00:00.000-07:00

It took it's sweet time, but I think spring is FINALLY here. Yesterday when I came back from Newport, I was able to roll up my sleeves and pant legs and soak up a little Vitamin D out on our deck. It wasn't HOT by any means, but it was pleasantly warm and bright. I have come to learn that just 20 minutes a day in the sun not only gives me a nice healthy (but not skin cancer inducing) glow, but it does tremendous things to my state of mind. My MP3 player and a very large glass of iced tea make it extra refreshing.

And so as I type, I am watching the outdoor temperature rise and am getting itchy to move out to the deck. I WILL make myself start some laundry. I WILL do some prep for my Precept class tomorrow. I WILL tidy up the t.v. room and kitchen. But I will do them QUICKLY because I can hardly wait to stir up the giant peach iced tea, put on my shades and head out the back door. Ahhhh, spring! And the best thing of all is that summer will soon follow. Yee-haw!

Girlfriend Getaway

2009-04-05T17:40:00.000-07:00

I am blessed to have a number of amazing women in my life. Of course I must mention my mother and my sisters here as they are the amazing women that I have known the longest. I also still keep in touch with my nearly 40-year friend Mishell. My relationships with them are incredibly important to me, but sadly, I don't get to spend quality time with them as often as I'd like.

I have been so fortunate through the paths of my life that I have had women friends who, for a season, have had great influence on me and I have had especially meaningful relationship with. Six years ago I met my friend Gail, who at the time was my job share partner. I also soon discovered she was my neighbor. She became my support system as I went through cancer treatment. We became prayer partners, confidants, counselors. Our husbands became friends. Her kids are like my own. We have shared countless adventures, including a ten-day Maui getaway, Thanksgiving at Fairmont, Canada, and a camping trip to the St. Joe River. This friendship was unexpected and God-ordained. It blesses me every day.

My friendship with Gail has also included sharing other friends that on our own, we would have likely not crossed paths with. As I have gotten to know Gail's circle of friends, I have come to appreciate the godly, fun-loving, warm, transparent people they are. Over time they have allowed me to infiltrate their circle and have embraced me as not just Gail's friend, but their friend as well. I have laughed with them, cried with them, shared experiences, feelings, beliefs.

This weekend we took part in a girlfriends' getaway to The Inn at the Lake near Newport, WA. This group lives and loves to have fun and that's what we did. We traveled to Sand Point, ID for lunch and shopping, then settled into the beautiful Bed and Breakfast on Diamond Lake. We took over the lower level of this immense house, enjoyed the lovely rooms and warm hospitality. From time to time, we reflected on some of the harder things some of us are going through. But mostly it was a time of great conversation, delighting in the fact that God gives us friends.

I am so thankful that God taught us to be in relationship. Life would be really hard without it. Sometimes relationships are hard, too, but they are worth any pain involved. Now that our little getaway is over, I am left feeling deeply satisfied and blessed. And I crave more opportunities for those relationships to flourish. Here's to spending quality time with the people God placed in my life. It's sooo much better than trying to do life alone.

Stations of the Cross

2009-04-02T19:29:00.000-07:00

One of the advantages of my job is that I have opportunities to expand my spiritual horizons. Our weekly staff meetings usually offer a chance for us to encourage and pray for each other along with discussing and making decisions regarding ministry and church business. But this week was extra special as we took our staff meeting on the road. We actually left the Timberview walls and took a field trip to the Student Chapel at Gonzaga University to view the Stations of the Cross. (Thanks, Whitney, for being our hostess and being our "in" at GU).

The Stations or Way of the Cross are depictions of the last hours of Christ. The Stations in the Student Chapel are beautiful three dimensional wood carvings. Pastor Glenn led us around the room to the fourteen stations and gave us a guide to follow. Following along with the scriptures added to the impact of the detailed carvings. I found it to be a powerful and memorable experience as I focused on what Christ experienced on his way to the cross. I was especially struck by the depiction of Simon coming to Christ's aid when the cross became too heavy. Of course God in the flesh could have done it all without help, but he chose to embrace humanity and let Simon come alongside. Christ can do all things, but he chooses to let us help him. I've meditated on that fact for the past two days. He doesn't NEED my help, but he WANTS my help. Profound. Humbling. Awe-inspiring.

This will remain a highlight of the Easter season for me this year. It's easy to become desensitized to Christ's suffering as we celebrate His resurrection year after year. Dying on the cross was not a simple act of mercy for mankind. It was brutal, painful, sacrificial. I don't want to overlook that. But I'm glad the fifteenth Station depicting the resurrection has been recognized as a vital addition to the Stations of the Cross. I love a happy ending.

March Sadness

2009-03-27T21:27:00.000-07:00

Weelllll......it was pretty sad to watch the Zags be totally dominated by the Tarheels. UNC was strong inside, outside and every other way. Zags struggled inside - no answer for Hansbrough. They struggled outside - no answer for Lawson. They beat themselves with turnovers. But it was the Sweet Sixteen. Pretty impressive to end the year in the top sixteen of the nation. It was a great run -thanks Bulldogs for a very entertaining year of basketball.

It appears to me that the bracket builders for the year did a good job of setting up the tournament to really be the best of the best in the final four. I think some really exciting games are ahead. I just wish GU was in one of them.

So not that I know that much, but here are what seem to be some pretty obvious suggestions for next year. 1. Recruit another BIG inside guy. Sacre will be back, but how long will it take him to get in the game after a major injury? He has little experience against the tough teams. Will Foster aint gonna do it unless they send him to soccer camp over the summer and teach him some footwork and how to get off the floor. Another Ronny Turiaf is what I'm thinking. 2. Recruit some scrappy players. We're known as a finesse team. That doesn't go far against the Big East. Ira Brown shoulda played more just to be a feisty sparkplug under the net. 3. Bouldin is amazing, but when he gets shut down or has an off night, we don't have another answer for leading the team. They call Pargo the leader, but he is too inconsistent. Hopefully Goodson will be part of the answer to compliment Bouldin. 4. Don't rely on the WCC to be an indicator for how competitive we are. We need more games against the big guns later in the season.

Bottom line, it's still very impressive for little old Gonzaga University to be a major player in NCAA basketball. They've put Spokane on the map. I'm still a huge fan. Let's not be hanging our heads. We have some work to do, but I'm already looking forward to what next season will bring. I'm proud to say I am a Zagmaniac.

Second Round Heart Attack

2009-03-21T20:05:00.001-07:00

So my Zags nearly did me in tonight. Keith and I had no choice but to abandon my parents and head for a sports bar that would be airing the GU-Western Kentucky game. My sister and bro-in-law joined us for dinner and refreshments. A few more Zags fans and a lot of U of M fans filled up the place. There were multiple televisions going, but as the Uof M women slowly faded into the sunset, everyone became engaged in the Bulldog battle. It was a great environment in which to watch the game as no one seemed to mind when we had outburts of enthusiasm or disappointment at the Zags performance. The Zags did not disappoint, but they definitely made it heart-wrenching along the way. A couple of times I had to just not look as it came down to the last seconds with Goodson pulling off the last two pointer with 7 seconds left in the game. Talk about cutting it close - sheesh!

Sweet Sixteen. Taking on a one-seed. The what-ifs are swirling around in my head. Weirder things have happened. Go Zags!

First Round Jitters

2009-03-20T10:02:00.001-07:00

How fortunate I am to have a daughter that works at Gonzaga University and is willing to go stand in line at ungodly hours to get tickets so I can see live games at the McCarthy Center. Spokanites can testify to the fact that tickets are very hard to come by and pricey to say the least. I have gotten to take in 3, count them, THREE games. Thanks, Whit!

Needless to say I have become a true Zagmaniac. I rarely miss the televised games and cringe in frustration when they are moved to ESPNU which almost no one in Spokane has access to. I love being at McCarthy with the crazy Kennel Club which makes it too loud to talk over. I enjoy watching the players mature and become "stars" of sorts. Too much fun.

So my Zags are once again in the NCAA tourney. They have had first round stumbles the last two years, so I was getting nervous for them before the game ever started. They came in as a #4 seed this year - best placement ever. They were playing an Akron team who had no tourney history. Should have been a walkover. BUT, it IS March Madness. And it IS the crazy first round where Cinderella teams blossom (i.e. Davidson last year). And the team seemed to have first round jitters, too. Akron lead a good portion of the first half as Gonzaga looked like deer in headlights. I was pacing. Had to leave the room a couple times. Hid behind the couch at one point repeating the mantra, "We're a second half team, we're a second half team". Seriously, I thought I might have a mini breakdown. But the boys are back. They wore Akron down and won rather decisively after keeping the Zips from scoring for 24 minutes. PHEW! I can breathe again.

On to Round 2. The expected rival would have been Illinois, but they fell to Western Kentucky last night. Could be good for the Zags. I'm hoping their jitters and mine won't be evident on Saturday. On to the Sweet Sixteen!

Thirty Year Reunion

2009-03-09T09:51:00.000-07:00

I've been trying to think how to word this without insulting anyone, including myself. On Saturday we participated in a gathering of our old friends (see? It just doesn't sound good, but I can't figure out how to say, "friends we have known for a really long time who really are getting to be older than dirt"). ANYWAY, you get the picture. We had dinner with Mac and Lorraine, Dale and Judi, Jon and Kristi, Milan and Nancy at the Halls' new home in Chattaroy. It was a grand reunion with MUCH laughter and reminiscing about the "good old days". We caught up on all our kids, recent happenings, jobs (or lack thereof - so sorry, Milan). And as is the case when old people get together, there were colonoscopy stories, tales of caring for aging parents, updates on medical maladies, and reliving events of the past. We caught up on friends who have moved on, friends who we never hear from, and friends that we decided to vote off the island.

The best part was realizing that even after 30 years, we still have so much in common and enjoy each other's company. We laughed till there were tears and it felt like we picked up right where we left off the last time we were together. We even stayed up till after 11:00!!! We're hoping this gathering will happen more often. But it's so easy for time to slip by, life to be busy, all of us nurturing newer relationships, spending time with our kids when they let us. But I feel a Cone backyard BBQ coming on. If it ever stops snowing.

View from a Hospital Waiting Room

2009-03-04T16:56:00.000-08:00

I recently spent a whole very long day at Deaconess Medical Center while Keith had a procedure to improve his atrial fibrilation. Whitney came and spent the day with me and we had lots of time to people watch. Interesting places, hospitals. Interesting people of all kinds.

We watched several families come and go in the cardiac surgery waiting room. We also watched two patients who were being closely guarded by police types. We saw a plethera of pregnant people waiting to get ultrasounds. There was the very odd little man who made us just a teeny uncomfortable as he waited in the same waiting room with us. He was probably 40, with his mother, drinking a LOT of vitamin water and searching for People magazines. There weren't any, so he settled for a gaming magazine. He was up and down about twenty times before they called his name. His mother was busy watching Judge Judy. When they did finally come to get him, he took ALL of his Vitamin water with him. There was a very cute older couple. She was a little unsteady and he was very patient and caring, helping her at every turn - very sweet. There were hospital workers who were talking about losing their jobs. There was one girl who spent her whole shift wheeling a cart back and forth from one area to another. She was clearly bored and talked to anyone who would listen. There was a large group of teenagers who descended upon the cafeteria at lunchtime. They didn't appear to be workers or visiting anyone - maybe a field trip?

Just a little snippet that probably reflects the world in the bigger picture. I think it's sometimes good to be a captive audience and just take in the people around you. It made me wonder about their stories. It made me think sometimes it would be good to take the time to ask.

2009-02-28T17:37:00.000-08:00

Is anyone else enjoying the Washington State end of the season run of victories? It's immensely satisfying to see them take out UCLA, Arizona and Arizona State in their last three games. What a time to peak! Go Cougs!

Keeping It Real

2009-02-27T17:49:00.000-08:00

I am always fascinated (?), shocked (?), amazed (?), appalled (?), when people we are intimately connected with, whether it be family or close friends, choose to avoid just talking about important issues. I guess my perspective comes from having gone through some pretty tough things in life and coming to the realization that it's just so much better if you just get real with those you care about. To me, life is toooo short for game playing or avoidance hoping that it will all just go away. I can't imagine just not talking to someone when there is something that needs to be dealt with even though the conversation may be uncomfortable.

Relationships are my priority. To me it's what life is all about. I value those that God has placed in my life enough to be real with them. To be perfectly honest, I have come to the place where I mostly cut my losses with those who have chosen to be less than genuine and honest. Not that everything has to be said in a relationship, but the more I experience and learn in life, the more I know that life is too short to play games with the things that matter. And not that EVERYONE shouldn't be offered grace when we are less than our best in a relationship, but at some point we must face the music with each other if the relationship is to survive.

I think about Jesus and how he always got real with people. He didn't always say what they wanted to hear and he was willing to have those hard conversations. Pastor Glenn recently posted some great guidelines as to when to NOT say something. But there is a flip-side and times when we need TO say something. Especially with those close to us.

I'm left pondering this delicate balance..... It's interesting that more than one of the blogs I follow have addressed this "to say or not to say" issue this week. Must be a universal concern. More pondering......

Stretching my Comfort Zone

2009-02-26T09:03:00.000-08:00

I'm not one that enjoys being the center of attention or up in front of large groups of people. I know some of you are surprised by that since I have been leading a Bible study for 14 years, have spoken at retreats and been on worship teams. I have found my little comfort zone and I don't often breach it.

This week Pastor Glenn asked me to share in Sunday Service. Gaaahhhh! Fear! Trepidation!! Increased blood pressure!!! The topic? Spending time in the Bible. How can I NOT talk about that?! It's what I've been intensely passionate about for the last 14 years. I would somehow be ignoring my gift if I refused to share what I have learned. Fortunately I only have to fill 4-5 minutes - TWICE!!! (Two services- aarrgghh!)

So I will share about how I grew up in a Christian home that valued the Bible. As a kid I remember watching my mom read her Bible - it was modeled for me. Went to Sunday School. My Grandma Bennett insisted that I learn the Books of the Bible, the 23rd Psalm, the Lord's Prayer and a variety of verses. Later on I went to Northwest Christian College where I took Bible classes, New Testament and Old - learned a lot about what the Bible said.

Then I will talk about the fact that 16 years ago I got into an in-depth Bible study on Sermon on the Mount. They called it a Precept Upon Precept class and it taught me the inductive method of Bible study. That's when I came to understand that God's Word is living and active and transforming. God speaks to us through His Word. I learned not only WHAT the Bible says, but WHAT IT MEANS, and WHAT IT MEANS TO ME. I also realized that the knowledge moved from my head to my heart. I now realize that there is always more to discover in Scripture. There are layers upon layers and I never will KNOW all the wonders that are in the Bible.

I also will say that studying the Bible isn't easy. It would be great if we could just put it on our Ipods and have it sink into our brains while we do other things. It would also be great if we could learn one concept and move on to the next, but we have to keep being reminded of what we have already learned. Bottom line, we have to WORK at it. It's hard for God to use it to speak to us if we aren't putting ourselves in it. It's like training for a race. You wouldn't show up to do a marathon if you hadn't trained. Neither should we go around speaking for God without doing the necessary preparation.

So there it is. My 4-5 minutes of fame. Pray for me. I have great things to say if I can drag myself up to the microphone.

Where Does the Time Go?!

2009-02-15T10:42:00.000-08:00

So this week Whitney and Travis have birthdays; they are both turning 25. TWENTY-FIVE!!!!! They may be that old, but that would mean that I'm.....well, let's just say older than THAT. To comprehend that my baby girl came along 25 years ago is sort of....incomprehensible. Seems like just yesterday. I think since this is a milestone birthday, it gives me license to reminisce a bit.

I remember the day she was born. And the day before that. And the day before that. AND the day before that. It took her that many days (63 hours of labor) to decide to enter the world. A bit of a traumatic beginning, but it all ended well. She was a teeny tiny perfect little version of me. Now, over time she has taken on some of the physical and character traits of her father, but when she was born, she was a me clone. We were SOOO excited and happy with our little girl. We (I should probably say "I" here) dressed her in pink and ruffles and bows and loved showing her off. We knew from the start that she would be brilliant, talented, beautiful, and practically perfect in every way. She hasn't disappointed. Twenty five years later, we are so proud of the wonderful, godly woman she has become. She gives so much of herself, works hard at what she takes on, finds joy and laughter in so many things, uses her God-given gifts faithfully. She chose a wonderful husband who enhances everything she is and does. And one of these years, they will hopefully give me amazing grandchildren (sorry guys, it just HAD to be said).

Happy birthday

Whitney Mishelle &

Travis Benjamin Franklin.

We love you both!!!!

A Dog's Life

2009-02-06T11:10:00.000-08:00

I'm feeling a little reflective as my poor husband had to put one of our pets down today. Now mind you, she was ancient. I don't know what it is, but our pets tend to live extra long lives. She was 15 years old, had cancer, and had basically become a skeleton with skin on. She has been "dying" for a year and a half now and my biggest fear was that she would choose to do it when someone else was dog sitting for us. But the fact that the day finally arrived is still sad.

Shasta was a pound puppy. Some mix of shepherd and ??? We were looking for a new pup and our kids fell for her bright eyes and big ears. We are dog people and each one becomes part of the family. This one must have liked being part of our family because she hung around long after she could have left gracefully. I could get very sentimental here and tell "Marley and Me" type stories, but instead I choose to acknowledge her life, and her death, and keep going.

Life is fleeting even in the animal kingdom. Life with a pet is a mixed bag. They bring lots of joy, but their lives are short. It's the sacrificial choice you make when you bring one home. And so, we celebrate the years of joy and remember the fun we had with Shasta. She was a good and faithful friend.

Searching For God Knows What

2009-02-02T12:00:00.000-08:00

I am a list maker. I do better with the structure of having a piece of paper remind me what I need or want to accomplish. My brain isn't what it used to be. Much to my frustration, it forgets WAY more than it used to. Thus my recent list of things I hope to accomplish in 2009. Thanks to my list, I'm making progress.

One of the items on my list is to read at least one book each month. That probably doesn't sound like much of an accomplishment, but for me it really is. Due to all my Precept preparation and the distractions of t.v. and the internet among other things, I get little time for recreational reading. I was an avid reader as a kid. Long Montana winters and two static-ridden t.v. channels left LOTS of time and little else to do but read. I poured through books. Even as an adult, being a night owl, I used to read books at night when I went to bed - lots of books. But now due to my advancing age, I read two pages at night and I'm gone. Takes a long time to read a book that way. I usually manage to get through a book or two on vacations that allow for reading time. Those vacations are few and far between. Therefore, I have to PURPOSE to read books. With that said, here is short review of my January 2009 book (even though I actually finished it today, Feb. 2).

I just finished Donald Miller's "Searching for God Knows What". He is the author of "Blue Like Jazz" which was huge on the best seller lists a few years ago. For some reason I never got around to reading that one, but Whitney left this one at our house over Christmas break and I decided to take advantage of the fact that I didn't have to "find" something to read for my first book of the year. And with THAT said, I am left pondering the quirky, out of the box approach to Christianity that Miller portrays. Like "The Shack" it challenges the box I have put God in. It tells a great deal about our human condition and how in many ways, our attempt to be "religious" has gotten it all wrong. I don't agree with every point he makes, but many of his points challenged me to take another look at WHAT I believe and how I LIVE OUT what I believe. Good stuff.

Though lengthy (my apologies), I will share one quote from Miller that I have read over a few times:

The Jesus on CNN, the Jesus in our books and in our movies, the Jesus that is a collection of evangelical personalities, is often a Jesus of the suburbs, a Jesus who wants you to be a better Yuppie, a Jesus who is extremely political and supports a specific party, a Jesus who has declared a kind of culture war in the name of our children, a Jesus who worked through the founding fathers to begin America, a Jesus who dresses very well, speaks perfect English, has three points that fulfill any number of promises and wants you and me to be, above all, comfortable. Is this the real Jesus?

Is Jesus sitting in the lifeboat with us, stroking our backs and telling us we are the ones who are right....that we are the ones who are going to survive and others are going to be thrown out because we are Calvanists, Armenians, Baptists, Methodists, Catholics; because we are Republicans, Democrats, conservatives or liberals: because we attend a big church, a small church, an ethnically diverse church, a house church, or is Jesus acting in our hearts to reach out to the person who isn't like us-the oppressed, the poor, the unchurched- and to humble ourselves, give of our money, give of our time, our creativity, get on our knees before our enemies in humility, treating them as Scripture says, as people who are more important than we are? The latter is the Jesus of Scripture: the former, which is infinitely more popular in evangelical culture, is a myth sharing a genre with unicorns.

I would recommend this book as one that challenges the "norm" in our churches today. I like Miller's way of thinking and the questions he asks. He titles a few of his chapters, "Fine Wine", "Naked", "Children of Chernobyl", " Adam, Eve and the Alien", and "Lifeboat Theory". A good book for those who think outside of the box, and for those of us who tend to live within it.

Looking Down the Road

2009-01-27T16:22:00.000-08:00

Wish I could say I had something new and exciting to blog about. Winter continues and my disdain for the month of January remains. I don't like being cold, I miss the sun, I passionately dislike bundling up, I don't enjoy it being dark by 5:00. However, we are in the home stretch now. I realize there isn't generally a lot of change of weather in February, but there is something about the fact that it is short and one month closer to spring that makes it better. Almost there!

It totally boosted my spirits that today we are booking our condo for February 5-15, 2010. You may be thinking that it's a long way off, but one more January to survive with the reward of Maui beach time...... Gail and Roch and Whitney and Travis are going, too, and I'm am SOOO looking forward to it. Some of my favorite people in my favorite place in the world!

Another fun thing is that I officially started my new Executive Assistant position at Timberview. I am looking forward to a little something different than what I have been doing for the last six years, and I even have my own office space. I think the world of Pastor Glenn and look forward to assisting him in ministry. Delightful!

We are enjoying a nice new high def, blue ray t.v. thanks to one of the companies Keith distributes for and we added a new entertainment center (one thing ALWAYS leads to another....). We'll be hosting a small Superbowl gathering on Sunday to break it in.

So despite the weather, there are good times, good friends and things to look forward to. Another January bites the dust.....

Top Ten Report

2009-01-13T19:25:00.000-08:00

I was looking over my Top Ten for 2009 list and realized I am actually making some progess already. Here's the update:

1. Get back to healthy eating and hit the elliptical at least four days a week. I have been eating much healthier, but it's hard to hit the elliptical when it's broken.
2. Make it to the Oregon coast. Nope.
3. Sponsor a child through Childcare International. Signed up to sponsor a little boy in India. I am excited to send our first check.
4. Paint at least one room in the house. Thinking about it.
5. Get my car back from the mechanic whose had it for four months rebuilding something. I don't want to talk about it.
6. Continue purging the house of unnecessary junk. Cleaned up the basement, made piles to go to Goodwill.
7. Read at least one book a month. Currently reading two.
8. Get more creative in the cooking department. Found new recipes for Cooking Day and tried 4 of them.
9. Make mini trips to Montana, Eugene, Seattle. Have to wait till weather is more cooperative.
10. Make plans to get out of town next winter - WAY out of town. Already cruising the net for Maui tickets and condos for Feb. 2010.

THERE ! Two blog posts to brighten your day!

January Doldrums

2009-01-13T19:06:00.000-08:00

So my friend Kathryn who is a blog addict like myself, pointed out to me that it has been awhile since my last blog. So I asked myself, "Self, why has it been so long since you blogged?" And I answered myself, "Because I'm not thinking anything blogworthy."

It's January. The worst month of the year in my estimation. It's winter. It's cold. It's foggy. It's gray. It gets dark at 4:30. Christmas is over. It's a long stretch till spring. I'm not going anywhere tropical. I have to bundle every day. I can't wear flip flops. My elliptical is not working right. (Are you enjoying my blog post yet?)

Consequently, this is why I haven't blogged. I have the January blues. I'm sure my readers don't need to read my whine, but since Kathryn insisted.....

I am ATTEMPTING to do things to get through the month: cleaning and reorganizing, reading, listening to music, watching reality t.v., eating, sleeping...... and then I start over again tomorrow. I will get there. But in the meantime, I don't have much to blog about.

My readers can hope that something exciting or catastrophic happens so it will give me something to report. Or they can just tolerate the sporadic nature of my blogging.

Welcome to January. My "favorite time of year."

2009 Top Ten

2009-01-03T09:09:00.000-08:00

The snow has subsided for the moment. The temp this morning is around -10. The sun is shining brightly on the snow. Getting around is still a challenge. Roofs are collapsing all over town. Water issues abound from broken pipes and backed up ice dams. Happy 2009!

In light of the fact that I have a need to refocus my thoughts in order to stay positive, here's my list of top ten things to do in 2009:

1. Get back to healthy eating and hit the elliptical at least four days a week.

2. Make it to the Oregon coast.

3. Sponsor a child through Childcare International.

4. Paint at least one room in the house.

5. Get my car back from the mechanic whose had it for four months rebuilding something.

6. Continue purging the house of unnecessary junk.

7. Read at least one book a month.

8. Get more creative in the cooking department.

9. Make mini trips to Montana, Eugene, Seattle.

10. Make plans to get out of town next winter - WAY out of town.

I challenge each of my readers to make a Top Ten List (or at least Top Five) and leave it in my comments.

Snowman Army

2008-12-29T10:04:00.000-08:00

There is not much to be done when you have over four feet of snow. There was a glimmer of hope yesterday when the sun came out and temps were in the 40's. There was quite a bit of melting and settling. However, it was short lived as now it is snowing so hard we're having a white-out. Four to five more inches predicted. Hopes dashed.

So what to do.....

Perhaps we should build a snowman army. We certainly have enough snow. It would be good exercise and we would have something to show for it other than large piles all around the yard. We could build tall ones, short ones, in-shape ones, plump ones, action figure types, high fashion ones, baby ones.....the possibilities are limitless! And at this rate, they would last till spring!

And just to confirm what you may be thinking, it is distinctly possible that I am losing it.

I'm Done

2008-12-26T23:05:00.000-08:00

I have tried to make the best of a bad winter. Have I mentioned how much I dislike winter? But now I am done. It's snowing like crazy and we are supposed to get 6-12 more inches tonight and tomorrow. Christmas kept my spirits up, but now that, too, has passed and we just have winter. At this rate, I won't even be able to put the Christmas stuff away because we can't get to the boxes that are in our shed. The snow plows can't keep up with it. We didn't get garbage or mail service the last few days. Don't know if we will be able to get out at all tomorrow. I'm done, I tell you!!

By way of entertainment today, Keith, Whitney and Travis and I went to see "Marley and Me". We thought this would be a fun, lighthearted family movie for dog lovers. Do not take small children to see this movie. I cried like a baby. I don't want to reveal the plot for those of you who will choose to bring your day into a total downer, but let me just tell you, it didn't lift my spirits. I had to come home and hug my dogs and granddogs! I didn't need to be further depressed, thanks! I should have read the book and then I would have known what I was getting into. The only forewarning was that groups of of people with red eyes kept walking out of that theater as we were standing in line.

I'm so done I am ready to hibernate till spring. But only if my dogs will join me....

Christmas Night

2008-12-25T22:33:00.000-08:00

As I may have mentioned, our house has been full of people, dogs and activity since the big snowstorm hit last week. It has been crazy and FUN. Whitney and Travis (plus "the girls"), and Alex have been here at the house since last Friday. Despite MORE snow and somewhat nasty roads, we were able to keep our usual Christmas Eve tradition of going to church. We were joined by Trav's brother, Casey, who despite his best efforts to get to Ohio, was stuck in Spokane. After church we had a good time snacking, visiting, playing games, etc. More joyful festivities....

I did have a chance in the late evening after the stockings were hung and the last of the gifts placed under the tree, to turn out all the lights except those on the tree and a plethera of candles, turn on some of my favorite Christmas tunes, and just contemplate Christmas. I was almost overwhelmed by the beauty of the scene before me and the reason for it all. I listened to Faith Hill's "A Baby Changes Everything" and got a little teary as I thought of how much the birth of Jesus means to me. He wasn't just any baby, he was THE baby that changed the world.

And now the gifts have all been opened, the dinner devoured, the dishes done, the games played. Another Christmas has come and gone. It's sad and satisfying all at the same time. I don't want to lose those moments in the dark. I want to continue to "ponder in my heart" as Mary did what it really means that Jesus came into the world in the form of a baby, one of us, yet still all of God. A baby changes everything.

The Snownami Saga continues....

2008-12-24T09:29:00.000-08:00

Well, this has been quite a winter already considering official winter only started Sunday. We have about three feet of snow with another 6-10 inches predicted for this evening. Goodie! (Sarcasm here). Keith is planning to get some of the pile off of our roof today. What we have so far has been very lightweight snow, but what is predicted is supposed to be wetter/heavier and he didn't want to end up with too much weight on top of the accumulation up there. Thankfully, Travis and Alex have been around to help him with much of the shoveling. Grateful once again for having family near by!

It has been a blast having "the zoo" at the house since last Friday. Having Whit and Trav, Chloe and Ali move in has made being housebound much more fun. If it had to happen, this is about the best time. We all have scheduled time off for the holidays anyway, so it hasn't been too stressful trying to get to work. Last night Whitney and I even ventured out to the Gonzaga game (sadly they played terribly and lost to a team they should have squashed. Whit says maybe she won't take me to any more games :( ). Travis's brother, Casey, ended up stuck in Spokane for Christmas so he will be joining us for Christmas starting this evening. The more the merrier as long as he doesn't mind lots of doggie kisses!

All in all, it's not been so bad. As much as I DON'T enjoy snow and cold, the timing of it has made it tolerable. Now if it carries into January, THAT won't be fun.

Christmas Vacation Family Style

2008-12-21T22:21:00.000-08:00

Well, there has been one huge benefit to Snownami 08. Whitney, Travis, Chloe and Ali moved into our house on Friday when they could no longer navigate their alley to get their cars out. They were feeling house bound, as were we, so they decided to come spend the week prior to Christmas. It's totally great! We have watched Christmas movies, done some baking, worked on a Christmas jigsaw puzzle, played some Wii, eaten a LOT. We have been totally entertained by the granddogs - they are quite funny together - and throw our dogs into the mix, it's a bit of a zoo, but a fun one.

It's almost like going on a mini-vacation in spite of the nasty white and cold outside. In here it's very cozy with all the best company - our kids. Alex has been in and out, too (his Suburu navigates most any roads and he HAS to get out to spend time with his friends). Have I mentioned how much I love spending time with our kids? Can't imagine a better Christmas!

Same Song - Verse Two

2008-12-19T08:45:00.000-08:00

We just have a bunch (or perhaps a pile, a wad, a load) of snow. And it's still coming. It is incredibly beautiful, but three inches would have been equally pretty. THIS is what I don't enjoy about winter. THIS reminds me of growing up in Montana and being snowed in. THIS was fun for about a day. IF I had all my shopping done, all my groceries packed away in the cupboard, all my cards mailed, I could just sit back and let it happen. I like my house, but I don't like the feeling of being stuck in it. Lessons in patience, practicing slowing down, learning to just take a breath and let life happen without everything being neatly finished and in order. The "overachiever perfectionist slightly OCD" in me screams to get it all done. I have SUCH a hard time leaving things unfinished. And so we will venture out today before the next "pile" comes. Dumb, I know. But I just have that "one more thing" to accomplish. THEN I will relax and "enjoy" our Snownami. Or not....

And the world stood still.....

2008-12-18T07:54:00.000-08:00

Spokane is completely locked down today. We have at least 20" of snow in most areas. All the schools are closed, including Mead and Gonzaga (yay for days off, right Whit and Trav?). Mass transit has about three routes open. Government offices are closed. Plowing is non-stop. I couldn't get out of our neighborhood even if I had to. But the Timberview office is closed today. SNOW DAY!!!!! Hmmm.......I think I'll address my Christmas cards, maybe see if I have enough supplies to do some baking, maybe watch "Elf" one more time...... Okay, so maybe snow isn't THAT bad.

When Can I Look Forward to a Little Global Warming?

2008-12-17T19:49:00.000-08:00

Today we got the first BIG snow of the winter season. I do want to point out that according to the calendar, it STILL isn't winter. But that has never stopped the Spokane weather. We got a dumping of snow and bitter cold that created driving havoc. For the first time since we have lived in Spokane (30 years), they actually closed city streets. There were commuters stuck EVERYWHERE. What a mess!

All this to declare once again, that I cannot believe the global warming theory. Nope, not buying it. Our winters are colder and nastier than they have been in decades. As for global warming - bring it on! I realize they say Florida will be under water and polar bears will be stranded on icebergs in the arctic, but really, I could probably live with that if it meant shorter, warmer winters in the Pacific Northwest. And until I see the tide rising, I will steadfastly remain in denial. And that's the truth......

The Big Chill

2008-12-14T07:17:00.000-08:00

We finally got our first real snow. It didn't come in the form of the HUGE blizzard that the weather folks predicted. We didn't get the 8-12 inches they thought we were going to. I have a little sympathy for these guys - Spokane weather is supposedly some of the hardest to predict. And better to caution people more than less, I guess. We ended up with a couple inches of very wet snow and then it promptly turned into an Arctic freeze which has now left two inches of ice on the roads. Have I mentioned how much I don't enjoy winter driving? Mostly I don't enjoy other people's winter driving. The temp right now is 6.4 degrees - BRRRR! Have I also mentioned how much I don't enjoy bundling? I know, I know I should make the best of it since I have chosen to live in a place where winter is the longest season. And I know there are some people who really love snow and couldn't wait for it to get here. But technically winter doesn't start till December 21 - it would have been okay with me if it had waited till then.

So this morning I am up early, watching the news, drinking coffee, and getting ready to bundle to go to church. My first choice would be to hibernate till spring, but then I guess I would miss out on a lot. Especially Christmas. So maybe I will wait till the first of the year to hole up till those first warm spring days. No Maui this year (boooo!!!!). Guess I'll pile on the sweaters, get out my mukluks, put the hand warmers in my gloves......and it begins......SIGH.

This is Christmas

2008-12-12T13:05:00.000-08:00

I think I may have mentioned how much I love Christmas. I transform the house, take in all the parties, make special trips to look at lights, play endless Christmas music, bake way more cookies than my family needs to eat, and so on and on......

But the best part of Christmas for me is hearing about people being generous and blessing other people. THAT is what the Christmas spirit really is - reflecting Christ's love by loving others. I am a member of the Advent Conspiracy which is a group committed to making Christmas more selfless and less materialistic (go to timberview.org and click on the ROCK blog page to learn more). Recently I have been touched by the generosity of our church family to sponsor families in need. I have gotten to be in on Whitney doing a good deed for two very deserving boys. I have heard countless stories of extreme generosity in extreme economic conditions. It warms my heart.

This morning was extra heart-warming as I got to listen to the radio as my friends Kathryn and Leland were recipients of "Christmas Wish" sponsored by KZZU. Their friend Michelle wrote a very touching letter about all the Bonnetts have been through and the station picked them to receive an abundance of gifts. I cried through the whole thing. It was sort of like Extreme Home Makeover on a smaller scale (that show ALWAYS makes me cry). I had been in on the secret and it really was an incredible blessing to watch unfold. I know it's hard and humbling to be on the receiving end of such a thing, but I can't think of anyone who deserved it more.

We have about two more weeks to spread the love and I am already thinking of ways that we could bless others. If you hear a story, please pass it on. It makes my day, my week, my Christmas season!

PAARRTEEE!

2008-12-05T14:48:00.001-08:00

I spent the better part of my day off today putting the finishing touches on the decorating and cleaning house. Keith helped me out and I was able to get things pretty well back to normal after not having time to clean for the last two weeks. Even though we were gone five days in that two weeks, Alex was here with five dogs - need I say more?

I'm totally ready to party now. It begins tonight with our staff Christmas party. I'm looking forward to an amazing prime rib dinner, gift exchange and good fellowship. Tomorrow we get to spend the evening with the Bievers and Mays at Gail and Roch's house. On Sunday after church we're going to Kathryn and Leland's to watch the Seahawks game. And last but not least, on Monday we are going to see Celtic Thunder at the Spokane Arena. I'm very much looking forward to all of these events.

All of these occasions will include food, of course. I will be investing in an elliptical machine right after the first of the year.

Aaahhh.....Christmas.

2008-12-03T21:24:00.000-08:00

I am a creature of habit. I try to be open to change, but when it comes right down to it, I like traditions. Especially when it comes to Christmas. My traditions usually include decorating the house right after Thanksgiving. I like to make it last as long as possible.

However, THIS year we were out of town for Thanksgiving weekend. THIS year Thanksgiving is later than usual. THIS year the week after Thanksgiving has been especially busy. THIS year I have struggled for the last three days to get the tree up and house decorated. I didn't have the nice leisurely day after Thanksgiving to spend the whole day listening to Christmas music, drinking the hot spiced cider, decorating the trees (yes, I have two), setting up the nativities, arranging the snowmen and Santas, and so on. Then in the evening, I like to sit in front of the tree in the dark and just take it in.

But, tonight after work I FINALLY got the trees up and MOST of the decorating done. It didn't have the same magic as usual and felt like a lot of work. But it's done. And sitting in the dark staring at the living room tree (the extra fancy red, white and sparkly snowflake designer-type tree), NOW it's Christmas. I still have the nativities to set up and the snowmen to arrange, but NOW it feels like the celebration I look forward to each year. NOW I'm ready. NOW it's about taking time to enjoy the celebration, remember the reason, and once again have the best birthday party for the best baby ever.

Our Boost to the Economy and Other Black Friday Adventures

2008-11-30T21:29:00.000-08:00

We actually did it and lived to tell the tale. As I previously reported, Travis talked us into getting up before dawn on the day after Thanksgiving and heading out to the stores to check out the shopping frenzy that is Black Friday. Here is an abbreviated play-by-play:

We left Bob and Debbie's house at 3:30 a.m. Our first stop was an absolutely necessary one: Starbucks. From there we watched the lines grow and snake around Best Buy. Some crazy shoppers had actually been camping in tents outside the building since TUESDAY!!!! Forget Thanksgiving, it was ALL about the deals. No need to comment - I'm sure we're all on the same page about that. We drove around checking out the lines at the other stores in the area. The one that made us laugh was the three Asian people standing outside Staples. Looking for doorbuster office supplies - ha, ha!! From there we ventured to Target. The line was just beginning to form at 4:45 for the 6:00 a.m. opening. At this point Travis bolted and we were helpless to stop him. He was getting in line. He started interviewing people as to what it was they were standing in line to get, and decided he would do the mad dash for Guitar Hero for Wii. There was no talking him back into the car, so one by one, we joined him in line. I was totally impressed with the organizational team for Target. There were plenty of security folks to keep order and the store was reorganized to prevent any stampedes (sounds like WalMart could have taken lessons.) Travis was second to obtain his acquisition and we were out quickly. From there we were off to J.C. Penney as I had my eye on a doorbuster leather jacket. Mission accomplished. By that time we needed sustenance, so grabbed a quick breakfast. Brief stops at Kohl's and Sears (one Christmas gift checked off). Overall, most everyone was good natured, the store employees very helpful, and supplies were plenty. There was one rude honking incident when someone couldn't get to Kohl's as quickly as they wanted (which also incited my husband to drive VERY slowly through the parking lot while Whitney and I shouted, "Get out of his way before he jumps out of his car with a gun or something." Keith assures me he had an escape plan if that had actually happened - yeah, right!).

The moral of the story: we actually had fun watching the people and even doing our part to boost the economy. I might even be convinced to do it again - at least if we are in a place where there is tax free shopping. There's something extra enticing about saving that extra 8%!!!

Schmonlin Thanksgiving

2008-11-30T21:01:00.000-08:00

We had a joyous Thanksgiving with the Schmid and Franklin families. Bob is Keith's "other brother" and he, Debbie and the kids are just like family, so it was great fun to spend the holiday with them. We were also joined by another family who are friends of the Schmids - 14 in all. As predicted in a previous post, there was a LOT of cooking, clean up, football and napping, but it was all great fun and we were very THANKFUL to be able to share it with great friends and family. Bob had to go back to work (he's a pilot for Horizon Air) on Friday, but we had fun with Debbie, Landon, Kaylin and Kyra. It was extra fun to be around the kids as they decorated the house for Christmas.

Our weekend also included a quick visit with our niece, Rachel, her husband Mike and their girls. We hadn't seen them in a long time and it was great to visit with them, catch up with their family, see their lovely home, and even have some fun with all the crazy dachshunds who are also members of the Salter family. We would have loved to have had more time to spend with them.

As the saying goes, "Time flies when you're having fun." The weekend went WAY too fast. There's just never enough time to do everything and see everyone we would like to. We missed having Alex with us - just didn't seem right without him there, but road trips with Whit and Trav are always great fun for us.

And now we look forward to Christmas. While we were gone Alex set up the tree and brought in the boxes of decorations. So many good times to anticipate and more holiday stories to blog......

I Can't Believe What I Can Be Talked Into...

2008-11-24T21:27:00.000-08:00

Those of you who read regularly know that my son-in-law is one of my favorite people and because I have such a soft spot for him, I have a very hard time telling him "no" to anything he asks of me. Thanks to Trav I now know more about football than anyone needs to because I watch practically ALL the games while running Stat-tracker, keeping track of not only MY Fantasy points, but everyone in my league's Fantasy points. It's a crazy obsession (don't say I didn't warn all of you about my latent competativity).

So his latest request challenges all my rules of ideal shopping. While in Portland, he wants us to get up pre-dawn to hit the stores on Black Friday and people watch. Not necessarily intending to purchase anything, but just to watch the people go nuts over what they perceive to be unresistable deals. First of all, I am not a morning person. I generally am not fully awake till sometime around 9:00a.m. and only after at least two cups of coffee. Let's just say I'm a slow starter. And my perfect shopping experience involves going to the stores when they are LEAST busy. I pretty much refuse to go to Walmart, but if and when I do, I like to go late at night or in the middle of the day on a Monday when I think the fewest amount of crazy Walmart shoppers will be there and the lines will be reasonable in length. But Trav tells me this will be FUN! I'm not too sure about that part, but I am game to give it a try this once. Because he asked me.

Report to follow.....

Attitude of Gratitude

2008-11-24T11:01:00.000-08:00

We're looking forward to sharing a Schmonlin Thanksgiving in Portland with The Schmid and Franklin families. Bob and Debbie and their kids are like family to us. We can't wait to spend some time with them and the fact that the Franklins will be with us will make it even more fun. We also hope to see Keith's niece and her family while we are in town. Our plans also include some crazy early morning tax-free shopping on Black Friday, a trip to Ikea, heading to Newberg to see a couple of Whit's college roommates and who knows what other adventures we might undertake. It will be a fun family getaway.

Thanksgiving to me is more a daily mindset than a holiday. Sure, it's nice to take a day to be especially thankful to God for His love and care for us, but it often ends up being a lot of work for the cook and cleanup crew, overeating till we can barely move, watching football, and taking a nap. Somehow that picture doesn't necessarily reflect the attitude of gratitude that I want to portray. Since I am a firm believer in making celebrations last as long as possible, maybe we could all think about having WAY more "thanksgiving" days throughout the year. If not that, maybe we could just be better at openly expressing our thankfulness every day. I think that would bring more glory to God than one holiday. I'm going to work on that - how about you?

Granddog Sleepover

2008-11-22T09:59:00.000-08:00

The Cones and Franklins are looking forward to a Thanksgiving weekend getaway to Portland (except Alex who may be abandoning us because he can work all weekend here in town :( ). One of the downsides (and there are more than one, mind you) to being dog owners is that you have to figure out what to do with the dogs when you leave town. Our dogs are adults now and can be left with minimal supervision in our back yard. However, Whitney and Travis's dogs are basically still youngsters and tend to get into mischief when left alone. What one doesn't think of to get into, the other one does. And without mom and dad at home, they tend to bark (doing the watchdog thing), which makes the neighbors less than happy.

It would not be a problem for them to stay in our backyard with our dogs except that we leave access to our garage for our dogs and if Chloe and Ali had the same access, the entire contents of the garage within reach would probably end up in the backyard. Keith suggested we put them in what used to be our pygmy goat pen and barn. In order to make sure that this situation will work, we're doing a test run. Chloe and Ali are coming to spend the night. This is not exactly the kind of grandchild sleepover I had pictured when Whit and Trav got married, but I do greatly enjoy time with the granddogs. If this works, it could be the answer to the doggie dilemna.

I'll keep you posted.

Those Wise Guys Had it Figured Out

2008-11-20T20:49:00.000-08:00

Every evening the news seems more dismal in regards to the current U.S. economy. Dropping stocks, unemployment, mortgage foreclosures, bankruptcies. And to top it all off?! Consumers are actually planning to spend LESS for Christmas this year. Can you believe it?! People are out of work and they are cutting back? Who would have thought?! Imagine not being able to purchase new game systems for every child. How can people live without all the latest electronic gadgets? How shocking to think that some won't be able to purchase that GIANT hi-def flat screen complete with blue ray dvd and 842 channels!

Okay, I confess to sarcasm in case you didn't recognize it. I know the recession is hurting a lot of people. I know some have lost their jobs or are losing their homes not because of bad choices, but because of someone else's bad choices. I have the greatest sympathy for those folks. I've even BEEN those folks. But in my humble opinion, a lot of what is going on is a correction that needed to happen. Granted, this is a hard way to do it. I'm concerned for the average American family who is taking the brunt of the mess. But maybe, just maybe, if we had cut back a few years ago, it wouldn't be so traumatic now. Maybe if we had been better stewards of God's provision along the way and not succumbed to the materialistic bent of our nation, it wouldn't be so scary right now. I am not, of course, referring to any individuals, but to our nation as a whole. We blew it and now we are paying for it. Now it has snowballed to the place where modest spending for Christmas is resulting in store closures, job losses, bankrupt malls, and on, and on, and on.....

I like Christmas gifts as much as anyone. And I'm sorry if my cutting back affects the economy negatively, but getting back to the basics where joy came from the simple things and it was about more than the gifts doesn't seem so bad to me. And if I have to buy less stuff so that I can give more to others, I can live with that. I'll be praying for those of you who are struggling financially and are trying to figure out how to eat, let alone shop this Christmas. May it be the richest Christmas you have ever known. Remember the fact that though the kings brought gifts, it wasn't at all about the gifts, but about the worship. And that doesn't cost a thing.

Christmas Anticipation

2008-11-18T18:18:00.000-08:00

I am totally already in the mood for Christmas. It is my favorite holiday hands down and I embrace so many aspects of it. I love that it is all about that one special life - a baby like no other. But I also enjoy everything else that comes with the celebration of the birth of Christ. I love the music, the decorating, the card exchanging, the gift giving, the gatherings, the Christmas sweaters, the cookies, the church services, the family times.

I think part of the reason I am already jumping to Christmas even though Thanksgiving hasn't come and gone yet is that at Timberview where I work, we start making plans for Christmas in early November. Another reason is that I see it in all the stores and I have already done a good chunk of the shopping. I start making my Christmas cards in November so I have time to get them all done. My first official Christmas gathering will be at Kim's house on Saturday.

Some of you may think it is WAY to early to get enthused, but I say, "Let's make the best celebration of the year last as long as possible." Some may have the opinion that we should avoid all the secular so that we don't lose focus of the meaning behind the season. I say, "It's one of the most important times of the year, let's embrace ALL of it while keeping Christ at the center." Some would say that it's just another day. And I would say, "It's just the most important day (along with Resurrection Day of course)."

And so for me, it begins. I can't wait to put up the tree, bake the cookies, wrap the gifts, sing the carols..... It's all a big ol' party for a most amazing Child.

A Very Full Social Calendar

2008-11-16T21:16:00.000-08:00

This was a week all about spending time with people. I am not generally a social butterfly and though I have lots of meaningful relationships, I'm not necessarily one who socializes every night of the week. This last week included a visit from my sis and bro-in-law, a bunko night, "tea" with Kathryn, a card-making party at my house, Christmas shopping with Whitney and Kathryn, dinner at Olive Garden with Whit and Trav, and small group. PHEW! Definitely great times all around, but now I am ready for a down day. I read a book once that suggested that introverts get their energy from having solitary time while extroverts get their energy from being with people. I am definitely more the former than the latter. Tomorrow I intend to sleep in, drink coffee in my p.j.s till I feel like showering, finish a book I started on the plane to Baltimore, do a little laundry, and reorganize my craft room while listening to Christmas music. My idea of a nearly perfect day.

I can't resist reporting that I had an outstanding Fantasy Football week, finishing first for the week and moving up three spots in the league. This is due in part to the fact that Whitney took pity and gave me her number two quarterback, Kurt Warner. I feel a teeny bit guilty that she had a lousy week, but not too guilty as she is still at the top (though being challenged by Keith who has been in hot pursuit for several weeks now). My success was not solely based on that great trade since most of my players finally all had good weeks at once. I probably can't expect it to happen consistently since, after all, it is a game that is predictably unpredictable. But for this week, I am doing the happy endzone dance.

We're looking forward to spending Thanksgiving in Portland. It will be a Schmonlin (Schmid, Cone, Franklin) holiday with side visits to family, friends, and Ikea. Hoping the nasty Gorge weather holds off till we get back as we have had some pretty interesting trips through there this time of year.

Next will be all the prep for the Christmas season. I'm already in the mood and have over half of my shopping done. I can't wait!

Sunshine on My Shoulders Makes Me Happy

2008-11-13T10:19:00.000-08:00

Isn't that a song title? Yes, I can hear it going through my head right this minute. "Sunshine almost always makes me high..." Okay, well it is a 70's song. Anyway, today is warm and sunny with a light breeze. It doesn't feel like fall! There's just something about a sunny day that makes EVERYTHING better. I feel positively giddy!

Predictably Unpredictable

2008-11-11T20:27:00.000-08:00

So Fantasy Football has become my new fall distraction. As I have previously mentioned, I knew it would become practically an obsession for me as I have difficulty with failure and I am fairly highly competitive when it comes to games of any kind. I don't mind losing occasionally, but I don't like getting demolished so to speak. I have been known to quit a game in the middle if there is no hope of being at least to some degree "in the game". But though I've been in the cellar virtually from day one, I have hung in. Allowing the computer to pick my players was my first big mistake, and despite my valiant efforts, I have been unable to snag any of the "big guns". Mediocre players seldom become great overnight, though there have been some bright moments between injuries that continue to give me enough hope to keep playing.

So, what have I learned? I have learned that Fantasy Football is a game that is predictably unpredictable. Just when you line your players up just so, someone falls down and hurts themselves, or has a bad day against the defense, or winds up in court for a drug charge, or as soon as I drop them they start scoring like crazy. Like this week, for instance. Bernard Berrian, who scored over 30 points last week, just didn't show up in the game this week. Not one single catch - therefore not one single point. Jake Delhomme, my QB who has been at least consistently mediocre, scored 2.94 points. How do you strategize THAT?!

However, there is something to be said for being a part of the game. Hope springs eternal for some unknown reason. Maybe next week I can move up a place. Maybe next week, ALL my players will have a good week. Maybe my daughter who is WAY in first place, will take pity and trade me her back up QB who is second in the league in scoring behind her starting QB (and she did!). I'm shooting high - 5th place (okay maybe that's shooting TOO high....)

And so all of this rambling to say WHAT, you ask. It's just that I have noticed that Fantasy football is much like the rest of life. We never know what's happening next, what's coming down the pike, what next week might bring. There are injuries, bad days, tough defenses, dropped passes, penalties..... But there are also the touchdowns. And those make it worth playing the game. Not too profound, I know. But sometimes the simple analogies are the easiest to grasp. Jesus told the Church at Philadelphia to "hold fast", keep playing, don't let the injuries get you down because the touchdowns are coming. Okay, so He didn't say it just like that, but I think that's what He meant. That I can do.....

And I can live with the fact that life and fantasy football are predictably unpredictable because eventually there are the touchdowns and even the Superbowl.....

Contentment

2008-11-10T08:29:00.000-08:00

I can't believe we're headed into mid-November. Thanksgiving is just around the corner and Christmas after that. My calendar is already starting to fill with holiday happenings.

This fall has been one of mixed feelings. Some of my friends have gone through life's toughest moments. Being friends with them means experiencing the great sadness and struggle. And on the flip side, there have been some really great times this fall. The fact that we haven't had snow yet (knock on wood or whatever you do to prevent it happening after you mention it) helps my spirits immensely. I always struggle with the days being so short and having to bundle in winter gear. This fall has been mild. I have spent some quality time with friends and family. I had a delightful day yesterday cooking with Whitney as Keith, Travis and all of our dogs (there are five when the granddogs come to visit) hung out. It wasn't anything particularly special or unusual, it was just satisfying. I feel blessed and thankful for much. I am content.

Christmas is one of my very favorite times of the year and I'm already looking forward to the decorating, gatherings, church events, time with family. Yet I am very aware that Christmas will be hard for those who are missing someone special. I remember very clearly the first Christmas after we lost Brandon. Painful more than anything. I am thankful that those are memories now and Christmas brings so much joy and contentment.

About mid-January I will need to be reminded about contentment. By then I will likely be tired of the snow and cold. By February I will need to start noticing that the days will be getting longer. By March I will be able to see spring on the horizon and count the days till that first 60 degree day. In the midst of winter, I will look for those satisfying days like yesterday.

Contentment - that will be my goal in the months ahead.

History in the Making

2008-11-04T20:40:00.000-08:00

Having just returned from visiting Washington DC and being effected by the profound history of the things that I saw there, the election scene tonight seemed more important somehow. I remember passing by the Whitehouse just a week ago and thinking, "Get ready - the new folks are on their way." I was so struck by Lincoln's words at his memorial and how what he did during his presidency eventually allowed for an African American to go all the way to the top.

Whether or not we agree with the outcome of the election, we can't deny the remarkable juncture in history that has taken place tonight. And whether or not we agree with the views of our new president, we can't deny that it is an important moment in time for a country that has been racially divided virtually it's entire existence. Unlike many voters, I don't believe President Obama will be the answer to all of our country's woes. But I am grateful that a great barrier was broken and we never again have to question whether the color of someone's skin sets limits on what they are capable of doing in this great and free nation of ours. And because I believe what I believe, I will respect the office of the presidency and the person of the president for the next four or more years. I will pray for his leadership and the decisions he will make. And I will always remember this night as one that made a significant impact on history.

The Answer to The Ailing Economy

2008-11-02T10:49:00.000-08:00

I think mostly I am in denial about the economic state of things. I refuse to even look at our 401K statements. Often it's a challenge to pay our usual bills while paying college tuition at the same time. Seems like everytime we get a little ahead, something breaks. Keith's medical bills this year have been a burden - even the 20% copays add up.

But I refuse to worry about money. I refuse to let what I think I need rule my thoughts and actions. I have determined that everything we own is really God's and it will all burn one day anyway. Pastor Glenn gave a great sermon this morning about putting our trust in the One who owns it all. He doesn't let the birds starve, nor will he let us starve. Sometimes there is the temptation to skip our tithe check and "give it later". Later never happens.

So while the bills keep coming, the cars and appliances continue to break, the medical bills show up in the mailbox, I refuse to worry. I can do what I can do and let God do the rest. Scripture tells us not to worry about tomorrow as each day has enough trouble of it's own. Amen to that. Denial is sometimes not a bad thing.....

I love these words that Pastor Glenn used to close out his sermon today:

The Ticker on Wall Street isn't looking so great these days.

But here’s how the ticker on God's economy reads today.

God’s character today: Perfect and Unchanged.

God’s patience today: Endless and Unchanged.

God’s heart for a hurting world: Enormous and Unchanged.

God’s moral compass: Steadfast and Unchanged.

God’s love for you: Amazing and yes -- Unchanged.

The market may have dropped, but nothing in Heaven has changed today. God is still sovereign. Jesus still sits on the throne at the right hand of His Father. He is our solid rock – our unwavering anchor and our only true hope in a worrisome world. Now more than ever I challenge you to Trust in Him.

2008-10-31T12:43:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween!!!

I miss the days when our kids used to spend hours figuring out how to dress up for Halloween. Countless trips to Value Village over the years! We don't get trick-or-treaters at our house, so we are going out to dinner with Whitney and Travis. Alex likes to hand out candy at a friend's house where they get LOTS of trick-or-treaters, so he won't be joining us. There is still a little kid in my 6'3" son. He likes to dress up and have fun with all the munchkins who come to the door. Whit and Trav will head off to a party and Keith and I will come home and maybe see if we can catch "The Great Pumpkin" - one of my favorites!

Keith and Cathey's Excellent East Coast Adventure

2008-10-30T11:19:00.000-07:00

Aside from having a great visit with the Milarchs, we were fortunate to be able to take in some of the touristy sites in the area. We spent two whole days on the Washington Mall checking out the monuments, taking a bus tour of Arlington Cemetery and downtown DC. We also got to visit the National Aquarium at Baltimore with Ben, Lauren and the kids.

Spending time in the historical district of downtown DC made me quite reflective. We spent some time at most of the monuments and visiting them left me feeling awed at the history behind each of them. Standing at the base of the Washington Monument and looking up feels like it goes on forever. I loved reading the words of President Lincoln at his memorial - they gave me a new perspective on the Civil War. The war memorials were the most inspiring. The Vietnam Memorial is so understated, but very powerful. America's shame became a black marble chronological list of all who gave their lives in a war we never intended to win. The Korean War Memorial was haunting. Pictures don't do justice to standing near the soldiers "walking" out of the woods. The World War II Memorial was my favorite. President Bush oversaw the building of this monument and it is impressive. Each state and U.S. colony who played a part in the war is represented around a beautiful pool and fountain. It's interesting that the building of the War Memorials went backwards in order, starting with Vietnam. There is no memorial for World War I, but there probably will be in time.

The Washington Monument from the Lincoln Memorial.

The wall - Vietnam Memorial.
Korean Memorial. World War II Memorial.

Arlington Cemetery is spectacular and awe-inspiring. The rows and rows upon rows of our nation's heroes, known and unknown, left me speechless. We visited the grave sites of JFK, RFK, President Taft, Challenger and Columbia Astronauts, John McCain's father and grandfather and so many other familiar names. The changing of the guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers brought tears to my eyes. At each change of guard, the incoming guard takes a vow to never leave his post. While on duty, each guard steps off 21 paces, clicks his boots together, places his gun on the opposite shoulder and paces 21 steps back then clicks his boots and changes shoulders again as an honorary 21 gun salute. This goes on 24-7.

Tomb of the Unknowns. Robert Kennedy's marker - he requested a simple white wooden cross.

John F. Kennedy, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis and their two infants who died at birth. The Eternal Flame burns regardless of weather. It's interesting that John Jr. is not buried here, but was buried at sea.

It also struck me that in each of those buildings we walked around in the downtown DC area, the business of running the U.S. government takes place. We saw the Whitehouse, the capitol, the different department buildings. We had lunch in the Ronald Reagan International Trade Building. It all made me feel very patriotic.

Our nation's capitol and the White House.The State Department and the Dept. of Agriculture.

The National Aquarium is amazing. We spent all day there and didn't spend long at any one exhibit. Madeline and Max love going there and we were delighted to be able to share that adventure with them. Ben also took us to see Andrews Air Force Base where he works. He does secret secret stuff - flying helicopters around D.C. and hauling dignitaries and such. We even got to see where they store Air Force 1. We're very proud of Ben and the work he does on our country's behalf. We;ll be praying for his safety when he leaves for Iraq in March.

There was much more to see, but it was a fulfilling trip. When we go back (looks like Ben and Lauren will be in MD for at least a few years) we would like to get to the Smithsonian museums and perhaps rent a car and drive through some of the nearby cities and states. It all made me realize how very young the West is in comparison to the rich history of the East.

All in all, a delightful and excellent adventure.

Visit with the Milarchs

2008-10-30T11:04:00.000-07:00

Keith and I just got home from traveling to White Plains, MD, to spend some time with Lauren, Ben, Madeline and Max. We had a great time catching up, going to church, seeing the sights, palying with the kids, eating the local cuisine, taking in the fall colors, eating more, playing cards, watching football, eating again..... It was tons of fun to interject ourselves into the busy life of the Milarch family and get to know the kids again. This was a trip we will always remember fondly. Lauren and Ben were great hosts, trying to keep us entertained while still keeping up with everything their kids are involved in. I remember well the days of preschool and birthday parties. Thanks, Lauren, Ben, Moo and Max!

Here are some fun pics of the Milarch family:

Travel Plans

2008-10-23T09:52:00.000-07:00

Keith and I are headed to Baltimore tomorrow to spend some time with the Milarch family. We have known Lauren since she was about 10. She and Whitney were friends through the dance groups that they were in, and Lauren spent a lot of time with our family over the years. She and her husband Ben moved from Spokane to White Plains, MD, last year as Ben is a helicopter pilot in the USAF. Their daughter Madeline is our god-daughter and their son Max is Whitney and Travis's godson. Both "Moo" and Max took part in Whit and Trav's wedding. We are excited to go see them and also see a part of the country we have never been to before. You might send up some flares for this young family. Lauren has been diagnosed with M.S., Max has recently been diagnosed as autistic, and Ben is being deployed to Iraq for a year. That's some pretty hard stuff to deal with as a "single" mom. Lauren is hoping to move back to Spokane while Ben is gone. We would love to have her and the kids back in the area.

Off to the friendly skies bright and early in the a.m. I'm sure I'll have lots of pics and stories when we get back.

Oh Happy Day

2008-10-21T17:28:00.000-07:00

Today was a pretty good day. Just going for a walk in the beautiful fall sunshine helps the mindset. On top of that my Fantasy Football team had a relatively good week. Now mind you, my top scoring player hurt himself and could be out indefinitely, but just in time, my other running back is back after an injury. Two of my wide receivers are returning from this disabled list. Things are looking up! I acknowledge that I am still in the cellar in my league, but watch out! I might end up in, like, in 6th place. Yee-haw! I also got a number of my Facebook hatchlings fully fed and released into the wild before I leave for Maryland. What more could I have hoped for?!

Some days are all about the little things.....

The Dome Series

2008-10-19T22:17:00.000-07:00

We're pretty big baseball fans in my family, but we are pretty disappointed with the idea of the World Series being played out indoors. The Red Sox were our only remaining hope, but alas. Keith will watch just to see the umpiring (he has a unique perspective when watching games on t.v.), but I'm not much interested anymore.

I usually enjoy watching the Seahawks, but their season is pathetic at best. I won't even mention the Cougars.

Bring on college basketball - I'm ready for Zag season!

Fall, Fantasy Football and the Pursuit of the Trivial

2008-10-18T10:53:00.000-07:00

One of my friends who thinks a lot like I do in many areas of life, pointed out to me that my blog has been rather deep and profound lately and that she misses the "fun" stuff. So, at least for this blog, I will address the shallow, meaningless, trivial "other" stuff in my life.

1. Fall. There are some great things about it. I love the colors, the crisp sunny days, football, apple cider, pumpkins, Halloween, Thanksgiving. If it didn't lead into winter, it would be my second favorite season. There's something friendly, yet foreboding about fall. I love those fall days when the temperature defies the pattern and I don't have to wear a coat.

2. Fantasy football. This year I am writing off as a learning experience. I have made all the moves I can to get some higher point players, but they just aren't out there and the ones that are keep getting injured. I'm in the cellar this week and just hope to move up a couple notches before the season is over. On the flip side, I am in second place in our office pool. Go figure.

3. New season of television. I confess to enjoying television. In Montana there wasn't much else to do in the winter. As a kid I also read "bazillions" (Karen term) of books. My dad liked t.v. too, so we would watch it together. So though I rarely watch it in the summer, it helps pass the time in the winter. New shows have begun, new episodes of old shows have also started. I like Biggest Loser, Dancing with the Stars and look forward to new American Idols. (The best of reality t.v. in my opinion). I like crime and medical dramas (CSIs, Law & Orders, House, etc.), and I also like some of the quirky reality things out there (Ace of Cakes, Project Runway, What Not to Wear). I get restless just sitting and watching, so usually I'm multi-tasking while watching. I wonder what a modern version of a variety show would look like, and I long for a prime time cartoon that doesn't offend me. Whatever happened to Saturday night Flintstones and Jetsons? I still live for the Peanuts holiday specials. What are your favorites?

4. Gonzaga basketball. The thought of Bulldog basketball gets my blood pumping. I was a big fan before Whitney started working at G.U., but now following it is just one of my favorite fall/winter pastimes. Whitney even took me to a game last year - fabulous! Most years it carries me all the way through till March Madness. Go Zags!

There you go, my friend. Mindless drivel at it's best. I hope to see a comment from you.....

What Would We Do Without Friends?

2008-10-18T10:27:00.000-07:00

I can't imagine what my life would be like without the amazing relationships I have.

My Montana family is the best. My Mom and Dad are the MOST amazing parents ever. My sisters are people I LOVE spending time with and as their kids grow up, they are becoming my friends also. Mishell, my sister-friend since 7th grade, will always be the one who knows me better than anyone. I would call all of these friends as well as family. I have friends and family who live in other states that I don't talk to often, but when we do it's like we've never been apart.

My kids are also my friends. Just being around Whitney, Travis and Alex lightens my spirit. Now that they are adults, the relationship changes from just parent-child, to friend-friend. I am so blessed to have them close by. They are good people.

I have other special friends in my life that are as close as family. Of course the Bievers are among the closest, but several others are highly valued, incredible friends. Some I've met through church and work, some through other circumstances. Keith and I have a LARGE circle of friends that would be tough to live without.

Yesterday I was pretty down after saying a final goodbye to Seth at his memorial service. The past several weeks have been all about the Bonnetts and just being there for them. Yesterday I let be about me. It was emotionally draining and hard. I could have curled up under the covers and stayed there indefinitely. But Trav and Whit, Gail and Roch, realized that I just needed to unwind, relax and be with them. They are awesome friends.

I have learned through the years that while we keep some friends for life, others are for a season. It has been my experience that God has a way of putting just the right people together for just the right times. Sometimes those "arranged friendships" last forever, some drift apart. And I am so grateful for all those I call friends. You know who you are.

One Foot in Front of the Other

2008-10-17T13:26:00.000-07:00

Today was Seth's celebration service. It was incredibly beautiful and emotional. Each song, picture, tribute and message was touching. Tears and hugs abounded. Randy gave a sweet tribute through tears. Beth put together a beautiful slide show that included all of us who got to hold Seth in his last days on earth. April and Jillian sang an incredible version of "Glory Baby" a song written and recorded by Watermark. Pastor Glenn gave a lovely message about the significance of Seth's life in six short months. It was awesome. There was food. There was fellowship. There were flowers. There was a lot of love floating around.

Now I'm toast. I know Kathryn is, too. The finality and the exhaustion are taking it's toll. There have been too many days of just trying to suck it up and get through it all. Now there's nothing left to do. Seth has a perfect home and the rest of us are stuck in a broken one.

Pastor Glenn keeps whispering, "One foot in front of the other". I've been doing that all week, but the steps are getting smaller and with less conviction. I'm not sure I could even walk to the mailbox right now, and I can only imagine how Kathryn and Leland are feeling. I know tomorrow is a new day and God will give me strength for whatever that day brings. For today, I can only sit and stare and miss Seth and Brandon.

I know, I know. "One foot in front of the other". Maybe tomorrow.

Where Do Those Quirky Random Thoughts Come From?

2008-10-16T22:37:00.000-07:00

So today was a difficult day as we said goodbye to Seth once more and laid him to rest at Fairmont Memorial Park. It was poignant that Seth was buried in the same cemetery and the same section of that cemetery that Brandon was 20 years ago. In fact, Kathryn and I have decided that they are neighbors really.

I have always wondered if I am just weird, or if other people who are going through tragic circumstances experience strange and random thoughts at the most awkward times. I won't go into the details of some of my quirky thoughts because some people would find them at best odd and at worst sick. But Kathryn popped off with a couple of comments today that confirmed to me that it really is normal to be weird in times like these (sorry, Kathryn - but you have to admit....). And perhaps these thoughts are God's protection during deep pain. Perhaps He knows we need a little comic relief just to survive and brings these thoughts into our heads.

We laughed together a couple of times today when one of our minds would go places most people would not understand if they had not experienced this phenomenon. I was pretty much always afraid to tell people where my head went sometimes in the midst of hospital vigils, meetings with funeral directors, memorial services, etc. Now, after spending time with K & L this evening, at least I know I am not alone in my bizarre random thoughts. Whether we're normal or not, I'm still not sure. I don't think I'll ask anyone because I'm still sort of afraid of the answer.

The Club

2008-10-15T07:37:00.000-07:00

My friends Kathryn and Leland are the most amazing people. They are walking through indescribable pain and yet ooze the grace of God from every pore. They have allowed Keith and I to walk alongside them because we have found an unbreakable bond and also because as we have gotten to know each other in deeper ways, we realize how much we enjoy and need each other. We are members of a most unfortunate group: The Club. The Proper name would be The Parents who have Lost a Child Club. Matt and Marlene are part of it now, too. It's not a club you choose or want to join - the membership is forced. Once you're in it you can't drop your membership and the dues are extremely costly.

I have to believe that people who belong to this club get more "head tilts" than other clubs. If you see me, ask me to demonstrate. I also have to believe that God values the members of this club in a special way and He gets it. He is an eternal member of this club. As I read in Scripture that those who love the Lord will suffer, I guess I feel like Keith and I, Kathryn and Leland, Matt and Marlene understand that more than most. For those who love the Lord, this life is not necessarily easier. But we are privileged in a special way to experience God's pain first hand. We come through the fire more refined. I wouldn't ask to do it again, but I know that what I understand now about God and life, has taught me in ways that no human could teach me. And because I did it, I get to be in The Club with some pretty amazing humans and one AMAZING God.

Cooking Frenzy

2008-10-13T09:58:00.000-07:00

In light of the recent economic downturn and the fact that the cost of EVERYTHING is hurting our checkbooks, Whitney and I decided to get together every three weeks or so to make freezable meals that we can share. Whitney is especially busy with her job as well as lots of volunteer activities, so preparing meals at home has been a challenge. I don't have the excuse of being too busy; I just don't enjoy cooking. (Yes, it's true, I am NOT the perfect wife). Eating out just plain costs too much as much as we enjoy it. So yesterday was our Cooking Day.

We start with each of us finding recipes we want to try that are easy, economical and healthy. We keep track of recipes we love so we can reuse them as well as trying new ones. We save ingredients from time to time, too, to keep the costs down. We bring our recipes together on a Sunday after church, make a shopping list, head to the store to get everything we need (we split the cost of groceries), then assembly line the production. Yesterday we made 7 different main dishes and 1 soup. When we divided into portions, we came up with enough food for 11-14 meals per family. It was a lot of work, but when we were done, seeing all those containers packed away in the freezer was SO rewarding. Now on those days we work, we just pull something out, warm it up, add a salad or side dish and we're done. Fantastic!!! And it has the side benefit of spending time together which is at a premium these days.

The reason I am posting this is not to brag about our brilliance, but to suggest that others find a friend, split the costs and work, and reap the rewards. Good times!

Morning After

2008-10-13T08:50:00.000-07:00

I can remember little about the days immediately following Brandon's death. It's all pretty much a blur of which I remember pieces rather than days. I do remember them as being incredibly hard. My heart remains heavy for Kathryn and Leland as they walk through this valley that happens now. They are missing their precious boy deeply as they take steps to try to put their family and life back together without him. They will need the strength that only God can provide more than ever. They will need their friends and church family to be especially sensitive and supportive. They may not even be able to sort through what it is they really need. Please keep praying. Please keep loving them.

This is the "grieving with hope" that Scripture talks about. There is no doubt that God is in control, that He is merciful and loving, that we have hope of sharing eternity with Seth. But in this broken life, it just hurts. We need to cling to the hope in the midst of the hurt. That's what I am working on today.

Seth's Homecoming

2008-10-12T08:22:00.001-07:00

I love that Seth is now whole and perfect and safe in the arms of Jesus. He went to his new heavenly home at about 5:30 this morning. His Mom and Dad were there to send him on his way. When our son died 20 years ago, our daughter Whitney who was four at the time said, "It's okay cuz there are lots of toys in heaven." I'm pretty sure Seth is playing like never before.

Brief Moments of Light

2008-10-11T16:22:00.000-07:00

Keith and I spent the evening with our favorite hospital residents last night. We shared a little chicken teriyaki and broccoli beef (so glad we picked your favorite, Kathryn!). We took turns holding Seth and telling stories and just being together. It's such a strange situation to be in - something so difficult and painful sprinkled with teeny little glimpses of light in the darkness. Leland met a pro football player in the elevator (Only Leland would recognize a player who went to the Superbowl in 1985!). Kathryn laughed out loud during a conversation with her 2.5- year- old, Kaleigh. Keith told about scaring a little old lady in the elevator. We laughed over my "third party offense" that K & L find amusing. (I know you are reading this, Kathryn and you can stop smiling now!)

Thank God He gives us brief moments of light to carry us through what otherwise seems to be endless dark clouds. Keith and I are happy that we can still share smiles with Kathryn and Leland even if they are smiling at our expense. I'm grateful for moments of joy in the midst of the deepest sorrow. Life is incredibly complicated, isn't it? Sometimes I wish I could figure it all out, but mostly I'm just glad I don't have to and that God already did.

God's Approach to Anger

2008-10-11T14:38:00.000-07:00

So in light of recent blogging, I have spent some time thinking about and studying the Biblical approach to anger and when it is appropriate. There are scriptural examples of anger in the life of Christ. He got angry over wrong doing and distressed over people's stubborn hearts. He got angry at the wrongdoing and the harm it did in God's Kingdom and he got angry at individuals who caused harm to others. Nowhere does it say we shouldn't get angry, but that we should not let our anger consume us.

I am not an angry person - I just don't go there much. I am usually quite patient with people. When I do get angry, it's generally over quickly after I have had a chance to vent. Perhaps to use my blog to vent isn't the best choice but perhaps it is better than landing in the middle of someone. At least on a blog the reader can decide if it applies to them. And it is MY blog. I don't want it to be harmful, but I want it to be real. I think we need to see each other struggle with hard things in life. I think we need to not display a "perfect" personna where everything is always rosey. However, I also don't want other people to "get on board" with my feelings about something I write about. I need to be aware of the power of words.

So my apologies if I offended anyone with my indignation about people's harmful behavior in regards to Kathryn and Leland. I don't apologize for feeling strongly about protecting them. But most likely I should have taken more time with my response and been more gentle with my words. Jesus' anger looked at motives. I need to do that, too. I don't know anyone that would want to hurt Kathryn and Leland. But I also know they can be hurt by well-intentioned words.

So my conclusion, if there is one because I am still working on this process, is that we all need to look at motives, be gentle with words, admit we are human, be angry about the things that make God angry and continue to be real with each other. I'm feeling very real lately.....

Fantasy Football and Other Fall Frights Revisited

2008-10-11T14:22:00.000-07:00

O boy!!! Another week of having to drop players to the bench because they are injured. They don't make a bandaid big enough! Seriously, my starting lineup has been decimated by owies. I am so slim in the WR area that it's pathetic, my main QB has had the consistency of jello on a hot day, I never have been able to snag a decent defense. It shouldn't be this hard! Oh well, hope springs eternal.... Maybe Boldin will be back in a week or two, maybe Royal's ankle won't need surgery, maybe Berrian can play next week, maybe Hasselbeck will.....well, there's too much to hope for there. Maybe I should just start looking forward to next year!

Some Perspective

2008-10-10T22:42:00.000-07:00

For those of you who read my most recent blog post and are wondering where it went, I have chosen to delete it, not because I necessarily feel any differently or have a need to defend the feelings behind the words, but because wisdom prevails and Pastor Glenn said much the same thing without the bite on his blog (see Link on my Blog List to the right). I recognize that because of my closeness to Kathryn and Leland's situation as well as my history, I am probably more defensive on their behalf than I should be. They are doing very well and don't need me to fight their battles for them.

For those who know them, I do continue to ask that each of us be sensitive when we talk to them, to guard our words and our actions so as not to cause them any added pain. They are making life's hardest decisions and they only need God's help to do so. They don't need our advice, only our presence.

Keith and I continue to find our time with Kathryn, Leland and Seth a blessing. They continue to trust God in all things. God truly has given them grace for each moment. Please continue to pray for the whole family as each day brings a new challenge. And God is the strength they need to meet each of those challenges.

Followers

2008-10-08T20:20:00.000-07:00

So I noticed that a few of my blog friends started noting their "followers". I'm interested to know who reads my blog on a regular basis. For instance, I had no idea Jean read my blog regularly. I had no idea that what I write might be interesting enough for people to check it out more than once. I had no idea blogging would take on a life and community of its own.

So if you do check out my blog every so often, I'd love to know you're out there. Maybe I should start a list for what people would like to see on my blog. A blog menu of sorts. I'm open to suggestion.

I know for sure that I have a "follower" in real life. We have had our female Australian shepherd, Sydney, for six years now. While I enjoy dogs, I'm not crazy about what it means to live with them (dirt, hair, worse than that....) and having grown up on a ranch, my idea of having a dog is one that lives outside and works for its keep. However, this amazing dog won my heart early on. She is very smart, super expressive and truly a companion. As I go from room to room in the house, she follows me from place to place, and lays near to where I am. I can actually carry on a conversation with Syd and we both know what we are talking about. She's mostly very tidy and not much trouble. Sort of the ideal pet and not a bad follower, either. I do think she's one of a kind in that she has birthed six puppies and none are quite like her.

Anyone else out there have a favorite follower?

Blog Addiction

2008-10-07T21:03:00.000-07:00

My name is Cathey and it's been four days since my last blog. This was pointed out to me by my friend Kathryn who apparently thinks I should blog at least once a day so she has something to read while sitting at the hospital. Blogging is a serious addiction -not only for those who blog, but for those who read other people's blogs. I have a list that I check every day. Now mind you, SOME people will go WEEKS between blogs. This is very disappointing for those of us who check our blog lists every day. SOME people blog more than once a day. I have only done that once and it really was more about breaking up a lengthy blog than it was needing to blog three times. So, anyway, Kathryn, this one's for you!!!

We've been hanging out at the hospital some and tonight we took dinner and some very unhealthy snacks up to Seth's room so Kathryn and Leland would be spared at least ONE night in the hospital cafeteria. Seth's condition hasn't changed much in the past few days. And so we wait. I told Kathryn it's a terrible oxymoron - wanting it to be over and being scared to death it will be. We continue to pray for God's intervention and timing.

Kathryn also told me I should blog about fantasy football, I think just because it's mindless entertainment for her - ha, ha! I had another dismal week. Two of my players got hurt and left mid-game. My Seahawks defense LOST me points and their tight end scored zero in their embarrassing loss to the Giants. Two people in my league actually had worse weeks than me, but the pathetic scoring of my team seems to be becoming a pattern - BLAH! So what to do.....more adding and dropping? Begging my daughter for a trade since she's over 100 points ahead of everyone else? Pretending I just don't care? Refusing to watch Stattracker? Good thing I have these very important decisions to distract me, right Kathryn?

Oh yeah, I didn't mention that Keith and I ran away to Missoula for the weekend, took in a wedding and a movie, did a little shopping, enjoyed the ride through the beautiful colors of fall all while reading "The Shack" out loud. Enjoyable little getaway for just the two of us.

Today Whitney and Travis have been married two whole years. They are such the happy couple and we couldn't be more delighted. Being around them just makes me smile.... And I won't even mention the fact that I STILL don't have any grandkids..... :)

Ready or Not

2008-10-03T08:56:00.000-07:00

I got an email from Kathryn this morning. It was beautiful. Her faith is NOT shaken. She is COMPLETELY trusting God with Seth. She and Leland are making decisions that are life's hardest, but they are doing it so unselfishly. There is no doubt in my mind that God gave this special baby to the perfect parents. Please continue to pray for God's intervention and that His mercy and love will reign.

This situation with Seth is SOOO familiar to Keith and me. It has brought back a LOT of memories. But as time has healed our hearts, we don't find it painful for ourselves as much as the fact that the pain we are feeling is empathy for Kathryn and Leland. We know from experience that God will carry them, but they are feeling the hardest kind of hurt that we as humans can feel. I know God hurts for that pain, too.

It's cool and cloudy today - kinda feels like my heart. I'm not ready for the change of seasons, but it will come whether I'm ready or not. Life happens whether we are ready or not. Thank God we can't see what's coming down the road. Thank God He can.

Seth Update

2008-10-02T12:06:00.000-07:00

Please continue to pray for my friends Kathryn and Leland and their six-month old son, Seth. They got very bad news today that the neurologist doesn't feel Seth is going to be able to live on his own and the family has decided to let him go without extraordinary measures. His health is failing and know one knows for sure how long he will live. It's such a devastating situation for this family and all who know them. Please continue to pray for them as they go through this terribly painful process of giving their baby back to God.

Fantasy Fizzle

2008-09-30T19:49:00.000-07:00

I have to say this Fantasy Football thing is a ride. Amazing how it can change from week to week; bad, good, mediocre, bad. Well, that's sort of the state of my team. I keep messing with it just to see if I can improve from week to week - moving players around, shifting according to the schedule, attempting to guess which QB or RB will have a good week based on all sorts of statistics and opinions. I am learning: 1. Don't depend on the computer to draft your players. 2. Don't think that one great week will lead to another 3. Players get injured and mess up the whole plan. 4. Don't have 6 players have a bye week at the same time. 5. Don't believe the pre-season hype. 6. Don't overthink or you will put the wrong player on the bench.

For this season, my goal is just to stay out of the cellar. For next year, draft a decent QB, a couple good WRs and RBs, a better than average defense. I've figured out that generally TEs don't help your point total a whole lot and kickers just need to be consistent. So live and learn. It's a long season, so maybe by the end of it I will have figured a few things out.

Eternal Perspective

2008-09-30T19:36:00.000-07:00

I've been reflecting a lot lately due to losing Mitch, praying for Baby Seth, visiting my parents, reading "The Shack", studying Revelation 1-3, listening to Pastor Glenn's sermon series..... Sometimes I think God has to bring me up short, hit me over the head, shake things up to remind me about eternal perspective. It's so easy to get caught up in the day to day routine, buzzing through life and not spending enough time with the proper priorities. Consider me reminded, God!

A Time of Respite

2008-09-28T09:44:00.000-07:00

Just what the "Doctor" ordered - some time away. I really needed to just step out of my life for a few days to reenergize, get some perspective, and just breathe. I have spent the last couple days with my Montana family. Even the drive over with amazing scenery and some good tunes helped. The colors are just starting to turn in the Rockies and I'd be hard pressed to find a more beautiful depiction of God's creation.

While here, between visiting with my Mom and Dad and sisters, I read "The Shack". It's a pretty amazing book that I may have to read twice to absorb. It rattles the cages of our assumptions about God. it challenges what we may have come to believe about His purposes and ways with us. It is a book that leads to pondering about our lives and how we are living them. The section about judging God gave me a lot of food for thought. If you haven't read it, do. You will think of tons of people you will want to share it with. It isn't the Bible; it may not even be completely accurate; it may take some liberties that are somewhat off-base. But it's thought provoking, endearing and challenging. I highly recommend it.

One more day here, then I head back home. I'm ready to tackle life there again, though parts of it continue to be hard. With the help of "Papa" (read "The Shack") I will push onward and upward....

When Life Hurts

2008-09-24T20:08:00.000-07:00

I've spent the last two days just trying to absorb the fact the Mitch is gone. I didn't see him for many weeks as he was at UW Medical Center hoping to get to transplant. Because he was away for so long, it doesn't seem real that he is really gone. I know where he is, but I still keep feeling like he will show up at church or drop me an email. Usually going to the memorial helps with the closure, but I will be out of town so won't have the opportunity to experience that. I have tried today to picture him in heaven, but so far it just all seems kind of unreal. My heart is so heavy for his family. Outliving your kids is not how it's supposed to go. Losing your husband of only a few weeks just seems unfair. Saying goodbye to a 28-year-old brother is a tough one. I will come to a time of celebrating for Mitch's victory over death, but for now I'm just sad.

Today Kathryn called me to say that Seth is doing poorly. His health is deteriorating and they think his brain injury is "cascading". I went to the hospital and arrived when they were doing an MRI to see if the damage is worse than before. His parents are devastated. Even though I've seen that same scene before 20 or so years ago, I felt unequipped to be of help. I'm so glad I got to hold Seth the night before his surgery when he was all smiley and talkative. This little boy and his family are in God's hands and we just pray for a miracle.

Though my faith is strong and I totally trust in God and his dealings with us, it's still painful. I know He knows that pain. I know He knows what's best. I know someday I will understand all of that. I know that just because we believe, we are not immune to the hardest moments of a broken world. And I know that because we go through pain, it doesn't take away from God's mercy and love for us. But for tonight, I'm kinda done. I don't have the energy left to be positive or hopeful. I'm emotionally tapped. I'm too tired to pray even though I am trying. I'm thankful for a new day tomorrow and am ready to take on whatever that day brings good or bad.

"Show me your ways, O Lord, teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior and my hope is in you all day long." Psalm 25:4-5

Mitch Steps into Eternity

2008-09-23T13:40:00.000-07:00

It's a sad day for our church and for anyone that knew Mitch Thomas. Mitch died this morning from the effects of the leukemia he has been battling for the last 16 months. To know Mitch was to know his voracious appetite for things of the Lord, his exuberance for life, his caring about people, his joy in the many relationships he knew. I will miss his presence here, his popping into the church office to chat, and our deep conversations about what it's like to live with the thing called cancer. But I rejoice that he has stepped into the glorious eternity God prepared for him.

Way to go, Mitch!

Current News...

2008-09-22T16:59:00.000-07:00

Updates: Seth is slightly improved today and more responsive. They can see neurological damage on the eeg, but the surgeon was more optomistic that he will improve. He responded to his daddy's voice today and that made EVERYONE feel better. Keep praying for an amazing, "unexplainable" recovery! On the flip side, Mitch is not doing well and the family has been called to Seattle. While I have prepared myself for this eventuality, it still leaves me with a very heavy heart.

Now, this will seem like a weird transition, but the distraction is helpful if not a little disturbing....

.....Fantasy Football Week 3. Boo! Hiss! BAD! I dropped two places this week as my players were pretty much non-productive. I have to stick with Delhomme in week 4 as my other TWO choices have bye weeks as do three of my other players AND my kicker and defense. It's not going to be pretty! I have plugged as many holes as I can and just hope for the best. Seems like the weeks I have little time to play with it, the better I do. As I am headed to Montana this weekend to spend some time with my Mom and Dad and probably won't even THINK about football, I'll probably do great!

The season is definitely turning - there's threat of frost tonight. Save the tomatoes!!!! It's a time of transition in many ways, not just the seasons. This thing called life definitely has it's seasons, too. Some are warmer and more fun than others. Some we just shiver against and wait for change. God does a pretty great thing by making each one have a beginning and an end. I guess we couldn't appreciate the warm ones if we didn't have the others. So I accept the turning, bracing for the cold, and anticipating the next warmth. Bring it on!

More Prayer Needed

2008-09-19T16:39:00.000-07:00

Our baby Seth had a bad episode on Wednesday night - stopped breathing and heart stopped. They think it was due to a blockage in his breathing tube. They were able to resusitate him and he has done well since. Oxygen sats are up and stable; he is off the ventilator. Now the concern is that they did a brain MRI and think there may be some residual damage from the episode. Only time will tell. He is still on sedation and it may just be a bad day for him, but Kathryn feels he is not quite himself. They do not need one more thing to worry about, so we are praying that it's only temporary. Please do continue to hold this family up in prayer. As I know well, it's not fun to have a sick baby and the stress is HUGE. I'll update when we know more....

FF Week 2 - Moving Up

2008-09-16T20:21:00.000-07:00

So this week I didn't have time to worry about my Fantasy Football team or even watch the games. The result? I scored second highest in points. My hero is Arizona wide receiver Anquan Boldin - he scored 43 points. If only I had a decent QB, I could have easily won Week 2. Now mind you, I am still in 6th place out of 9, but considering how dismal my first week was, this is encouraging. I refuse to even acknowledge that my husband has 78 more points than me and is in first place. As long as I'm not in the cellar.....

And now, week three. I picked up QB Matt Cassel just to have another option at that position. I'm still not sure who to start - having three choices is harder than two! I probably won't mess with my line up a whole lot, but wondering if I should move Torry Holt into a starting position as he had a good week on my bench in Week 2 or would it be better to go with Anthony Gonzalez from the Colts? Input appreciated! I have to gain some ground on my husband so he won't gloat so much.

Interpretation Needed

2008-09-16T20:09:00.001-07:00

This was part of an art exhibit in a new sculpture park on the Seattle waterfront. Any guesses as to what this piece of art is all about?

Sunny Seattle

2008-09-16T19:55:00.000-07:00

I know Seattle has a rep for always being gray, but when the sun shines there, it's one of the most beautiful cities I've ever seen. We drove over on Saturday to attend a wedding and had some extra time so we headed down to the piers. They have recently completed a new sculpture park (very artsy - very Seattle) so we walked around and checked out all the exhibits. It's right on the waterfront and the art was marginal, but the walk in the park was awesome.

What Coulda Been

2008-09-15T16:43:00.000-07:00

Trav shared this funny website on his blog. Thought you might enjoy "me" through the decades.

Newest Seth Update

2008-09-12T08:30:00.000-07:00

Kathryn reports that they did take Seth back to surgery last night and found they had nicked an artery and that was where the bleeding was coming from. Can you imagine trying to work on a teeny tiny heart with teeny tiny arteries and veins? Apparently it was only a small setback as his condition improved after they fixed the problem. Keep praying for his QUICK recovery!

Urgent Prayer Needed

2008-09-11T22:09:00.000-07:00

Just got an update from Kathryn that they were thinking Seth would have to go back into surgery due to the fact that he was bleeding from his chest tubes. Please pray that they can fix any leaks and get him back on the road to recovery. Pray for his parents, too, as they go through this worrisome process.

Seattle Here We Come

2008-09-11T17:20:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy week so I haven't had much time to fret about Fantasy Football Week 2. I did make some changes in my roster and just hope for the best since to really be good at this, I think you would have to study up a lot more than I have time for. With the new players I picked up and the trying to figure out opponents and what that means for my players, etc., I have pretty much decided I will probably decide wrong anyway. But, as I have confessed, I'm a little competitive and I can't just give up, so I will continue to play the game and hope for the best.

I spent last evening at Sacred Heart Hospital with Baby Seth before his big surgery today. I got to cuddle with him a little and pray with his mom and dad. He came through the surgery today but is having some trouble with oxygen levels so last I heard they were thinking of intubating him. We had hoped his recovery from this one would be easier than the last, and maybe ultimately it will be. For now we need to just keep praying.

We're off on another adventure as we head off to Seattle for Chris and Andrea's wedding. We have known Chris since he was two and it will be fun to watch him marry his high school sweetheart. Our families were close as our kids were growing up and we went to the same church. Then Chris and Andrea both went to SPU with Whitney, so they reconnected. Chris was the d.j. at Whit and Travis's wedding. Whit, Trav and Alex are all going along. In keeping with our belief that weddings are important, we are happy to be making the trip. Not to mention a road trip with our kids is about the most fun I can think of....

Fantasy Football Woes

2008-09-08T09:08:00.000-07:00

Yep, this pretty much sums up Week One.

Well, my lack of football saavy and letting the computer pick for me was definitely evident Week One. Matt Hasselbeck and his offensive crew were a bust against Buffalo. Two of my wide receivers scored less than 5 points and the highest point players were on my bench. Two of my bench players got injured and my team looks a little like a train wreck. I'm stressing out over which of my running backs and quarterbacks to start this week and something tells me I will end up with the right guy on the bench. This is fun, right? Travis assures me that the loser this year gets first picks next year - there's always hope, right? Except that I probably will know no more about football next year. Oh well, it's fun to have something to whine about.....

It's definitely feeling fallish around here in the mornings and evenings --- AAACK! I'm not done with summer yet! I'm not ready for being cold and bundling. I dread snow and icy roads. Winter puts such a downer on fall. I miss summer already....shorts and flip flops, absorbing Vitamin D on my deck, long evenings.......SIGH. No Maui this year......double SIGH!

Can you tell I have a Monday state of mind today? I think I'll go for a walk to inspire an attitude adjustment. I'll try not to think about whether Jake Delhomme will do better or worse than Matt Hasselbeck and whether to start Reggie Bush or Maurice Jones-Drew and who I could pick up to replace my two injured wide receivers...... Help me out here, people!

Time to Send Up Some Flares

2008-09-05T14:02:00.000-07:00

From time to time I have mentioned Baby Seth who was born with a severe heart defect. He came through his first surgery well and now it's time to do Phase 2. He will have the "Glenn" procedure on Sept. 11. Please add Seth and his parents, Kathryn and Leland (as well as bros and sis) to your prayer list for that day. He is adorable; huge eyes and awesome smile. You know me and babies, I would love to get my hands on him more, but they have to be very careful not to expose him to stuff, so I've had to satisfy myself with playing with his toes. I'll be praying BIG time on the 11th.

Also I have mentioned my friend, Mitch Thomas, son of our former pastor. He has a very aggressive form of leukemia. It appears there isn't much more they can do for him and they are sending him home after battling for 16 months. We all know God can do miracles, and we pray for that, but we also trust God in how he cares for Mitch and what his will is. Please pray for the family (especially his new wife Chelsea) as it is hardest on them. "May the peace of God that passes all understanding guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus".

Labor Day Family Adventures

2008-09-05T13:23:00.000-07:00

Our old stomping grounds.

Keith and I haven't made the trek to Eugene recently. Part of that is due to the fact that I have been running back and forth to Montana to be with my dad during his ill health (he's doing much better) and Seattle for weddings. Part of it is that it IS a trek and you really need at least four days to do it. We have done it in less and it's painful.

Anyway, over the long Labor Day weekend we piled in the car and drove straight through. By Portland we were both getting fidgety so we passed the time by my reading out loud a new book by Craig Groeschel called "It". It's an excellent book about church life that has been filtering around the office. "It" helped pass the time quite nicely. Driving into Eugene always evokes a lot of memories as we both attended Northwest Christian College and that's where we met. We were happy to pile OUT of the car at Mom Cone's. We spent two days with her then drove up to Portland, had lunch with Keith's brother, David, and his wife, Rockie, then headed to Bob and Debbie Schmid's for dinner and to spend the night. Good times all around. Spending time with the Schmones (Schmid-Cone - we've officially adopted each other as family) always results in laughing till we cry and talking till wee hours of the night (except Keith who now has to go to bed no later than 9:00 as he is a senior citizen).

As our parents have begun to get older, I see a trend. Whenever you go to their houses, they try to give you things. I know that they are just wanting to "take care of business" so it will be easy on us kids later on. But it still feels awkward. I have expressed this to my parents and Mom Cone and promised them that there would be no fighting over "stuff" when they are gone. My mom and dad have become minimalists - they don't want a lot of stuff and have it pared down to pretty much the basics and a few photos and sentimental items. Mom Cone, on the other hand, seems to be waiting for the next depression and she admits that she can't throw anything away. Her house is FULL - every nook and cranny_ of items that she enjoys and has collected over the years. It's not a criticism; merely an observation. You can spend hours just cruising her house and yard looking at all the stuff and wondering about the story behind it. Every time we have visited she has encouraged us to "claim" our favorites. We have not been able to do that as it just seems morose somehow. But this time, Keith gave in and pointed out a couple things he wouldn't mind having. The funny part was, that though the house is FULL of stuff, every thing he picked out was already spoken for. He finally just said, "Mom, just give me what you want me to have." We laughed about it most of the way back to Portland. And we did come home with a carload of things she wanted us to have.

The reason I mention any of this is that now that I'm 50 and Keith 55, I'm already looking around my house and thinking, "We have too much stuff! We must purge NOW! Maybe we could just keep a chair or two to sit in front of the television. Surely someone who shops at Goodwill would be delighted with our cast offs. We could eat on paper plates! We could sleep on the floor! We could share towels and toothbrushes and......" Okay, that's where I draw the line. But I do think there are a few cupboards to clean out and a garage in desperate need of organization. I'm starting this weekend.....