Wonderful Wednesdays

Psalm 68:6 says that, "God places the lonely in families."  This scripture is so true.  It has happened numerous times in my own life.  

A Place for Failure

In college I had a couple of professors that encouraged my classes to take a break before grad school, to venture into the world, so to speak, before continuing our music education.  At the time this sounded preposterous.  Why not continue while information was fresh?  How valuable could experience really be?  Why would I want real-world experiences in place of musical experiences?

First Day

The first day of school is finally ending for me.  It's been an awesome day, but exhausting since it wasn't over until 10:30 (an hour and a half past my school bedtime, for those that don't know). On top of leading an after school choir, teaching piano lessons daily, after school meetings, yoga, mid-week Bible study prep, programs for each grade level, volunteer opportunities, race training, my writing project, and any other random things that comes my way during the week, I've joined a choir on Monday nights this year. 

I know it sounds crazy to try to squeeze one more thing in, but I haven't sung in a choir since I moved to Dallas three years ago.  It's a part of a who I am, and I'm trying to save that part of me from completely dying.  After leaving rehearsal tonight, I am convinced I'm making the right decision to be singing again!  Rehearsal ran like a college choir rehearsal, he labeled my voice as "dark chocolate", and neither my vocal chords nor my sight reading skills are as rusty as I'd feared- JOYLIST!  Here's to Christmas music in the fall, musical growth and professional development!  I would love for this chorale to be my chance to dust the cobwebs off and vocally grow so that I might eventually audition for a professional chorus in the area.

My evening as a first day student went well, but my morning as teacher went even better.  As usual, I didn't sleep well last night and I had the jitters most of the day.  I have never been more excited about a school year than I am this one!  There are several reasons I believe this to be so, but one of those reasons is that I had a total life perspective shift this summer...

Nature Baby

This weekend was the last weekend of summer, so naturally I packed in one more trip to see dear friends.  My trip to visit was much overdue, and it wasn't until I saw them that I realized how much I've missed them.

Rosemarie, or Mz. Wag as I still call her, was my choir accompanist in college.  We quickly became friends and have been so for the past thirteen years.  She and her husband, Jim, are very dear to me.  The weekend consisted of catching up, good food, nature, naps, a movie, church, more catching up and more sleep.  It was wonderful!  I couldn't have picked a better way to end this summer and begin the school year.

The Waggoners have a beautifully landscaped garden, on the lake, complete with every animal, insect and bug you can imagine.  I encountered a family of deer on my morning jog, cranes inching into the water and a huge dead snake on the side of the road.  Hummingbirds graced their windows as squirrels lept through the trees.  Watching each of these animals made me feel very much a part of life, realizing how significant I am in my insignificance.

  As I sat on dock reading and writing yesterday,

I Dreamed a Dream

In conjunction with a writing project, I am also working on a compositional project. In college I dabbled with composing; I even took private composition lessons. 

Looking back, I realize that I never really put all I had into it. I took a lot for granted back then, and was an even worse procrastinator than I am now. This is my 10th year out of college, and hindsight is 20/20. I've decided to tap back into some of those dreams and talents I had before I let "life" get in the way.  

Getting today's mailbox treat was like greeting an old friend!!!  (Finale is music notation software for the computer.)

I'm Baaaaack!!!!

This summer I have single-handily failed at my goal to blog daily (A Day in the Life).  At the beginning of the summer things were crazy with my parents getting ready to move back overseas.  In the middle of the summer it was work and Bible study (Life Calling) that kept me busy.  The past few weeks travel northward stood in the way (you can see photo documentation of my travels on my Facebook page in the "August 2013" album).  And, we started back to school this week.  It's been a very full summer, to say the least!!!

All these were major contributors and are excuses to a degree, but the main reason I've been silent this past month and a half is that this summer, a good friend and I decided to embark on a writing project.  I wanted to take a step back to focus on that and get a clear direction from God, without the distraction of any other writings.  Stepping back allowed me clarity in several areas of my life.  As of tonight, my resolution is to resume my goal of blogging something everyday.  

My world these days, in bullet form:

Lasagna Roll-Ups

It seems that my last few posts have either been about daily life or recipes.  Today it's a recipe.  Will be back to posting more personal blogs soon.  

I have entertained at home quite a bit the past couple of weeks.  I love the fact that my apartment re-decorating (Design on a Dime) is finished; it just feels so much cozier and is perfect for having friends over!  I've used my visitors as guinea pigs for new recipes.  Being single and living alone are not a good combination for recipe experimentation on a regular basis.  This is compounded by the fact that I'm not a huge fan of leftovers.  But, I LOVE to cook, so have enjoyed having a reason to do so.

This weekend a friend posted a recipe for lasagna rolls on her Facebook.  They looked delicious in the picture.  I changed the recipe up a little to fit my preferences.  They were easy, very good and were a hit with my guests.  The individual rolls made presentation much nicer than a piece of lasagna.

The recipe lends itself to creativity.  You could add ricotta, Italian sausage, homemade pasta sauce, etc.

ADY's LASAGNA ROLL-UPS

Carry On!

Tonight before bed, I was reading the poetry of one of my favorites, Robert Service. I am currently in the process and planning of a couple of major ventures that seem impossible. I know that God is a God of the impossible and not just the difficult, but when I think about the particular projects I'm currently involved in, I know I can't do them in my own strength. Because of this, doubt creeps in as my faith waivers.

The following poem really hit home. If you find yourself, or have ever found yourself, wanting to give up because the path you're on seems difficult, perhaps even impossible, be encouraged today by
the words of another...

Design on a Dime

At the beginning of the summer I began tackling a couple of remodeling projects.  In May I started with my balcony-  Man, I Feel Like a Woman.  My living room was next on the redecorating list.  You might remember my post in June with pictures of my mom and me repainting a chest "mermaid green" to go with the new look- Summer Break Has Begun.  It's taken me a little longer than anticipated, but I am finally finished with my summer project!  

I had originally purchased vintage travel posters from the 1920's as a focal point and theme, hoping to go with an art deco feel.  This proved much harder than I imagined.  Apparently, art deco has not recycled through the area in which I live.  Travel is my favorite thing on earth, and I knew I wanted to weave it in somehow, but ended up not using the travel posters.  I had to start from square one, but this ended up giving me many more options.

A couple of my friends have a great eye and were willing to help me finish up decorating, so this week we hit the stores and got it done.  I'm really pleased with the purchases we decided on.  I was able to keep a travel theme, tie in my love of birds and the whimsical and use the color palette I wanted to.  I used several things I already had.

Shout out to the "Design on a Dime" decorating team: Mother, Daddy, Karena and Karen.  I wouldn't be near as pleased with the result without any of them!  And, they didn't argue when I picked my St. Francis of Assisi figurine as my MUST KEEP item. :)

Below are the before and after pictures.  You'll notice that I changed out several pieces of furniture.  I loved the look of my old decor, but I was ready to personalize and brighten things up a little more.  Besides, I'm the kind of person that needs change every few years.  Note: The before pictures were taken during the day on my digital camera.  The after pictures were taken at night on my cell phone.  You'll probably notice, not only a difference in picture quality, but lighting as well.  I kept the wall colors the same, so even though they appear darker in the after picture, they are the exact shade as they are in the before pictures; the room is very bright.  You can click on any picture for a larger view.




DRUM ROLL, PLEASE...............

In Season: Blueberries

It's the time of year that I can't eat enough blueberries.  I love blueberries anytime, but right now they are in season and are light enough to go well with this hot weather.

A friend generously gave me several pints of fresh blueberries last week, so I pulled out a favorite recipe and made a batch of muffins to share.  This recipe yields approximately 36 muffins and produces the most moist blueberry muffins I've ever eaten.  Try them for yourself; you won't be disappointed!

Ann’s Awesome Blueberry Muffins

Life Calling

On Sunday mornings I lead a small-group Bible study with my friend, Karena.  In conjunction with our group, this summer I am participating in Priscilla Shirer's Bible study, Gideon, with the women's ministry at my church.  The theme of this powerfully written study is, "Your weakness. God's strength."  If you are looking for a good Bible study to do, this is it!

Last Wednesday night the presenter had us chart out the following: our weaknesses; our calling/God's purpose for our lives; what we need from God; and our goals (as they relate).  This didn't present too much difficulty for me.  I strongly feel that God is currently in the process of aligning things in my life for big changes in the near future.  I can visibly see how He has me training for plans He whispered to me years ago.  Because of this, these four categories are regularly in the forefront of my thinking.

This week I had to jump ahead a lesson, because Karena and I were given the opportunity to present last night's session to the group .  As we met to combine our ideas and make a plan, I started feeling myself being challenged by the chart I made last week.  

On Pain, Joy and Sorrow

In approximately 48 hours my parents will board a plane headed for Monrovia, Liberia (West Africa).  Although, every minute of every day holds its own uncertainty, four years of absolute uncertainty seems like a pretty big pill to swallow. 

Diary of a Wimpy Kid

I like to think of myself as a strong person.  I moved out of my parents' house twelve years ago and have lived the past seven of those years without a roommate.  Anything that's required in my life, from finances to washing machine repairs, I do myself.  I have grown quite adapt at taking care of every detail in my day-to-day life, including the emotion stresses of it all.  I know the strength this requires.  Although it is not all done to perfection, and I do have a small circle of people I have to call on to help me at times, I do pretty well on my own, all things considered.  I take pride in my independence, in the fact that I can do things without the help of others.      

Silence is Golden...

...especially when that silence is the result of making money! 

An out-of-town friend texted me the other day and asked if I had a boyfriend.  I asked what prompted the question and he replied that the last time I disappeared from the internet was when I was seeing someone.  

I wish a boyfriend was the culprit for my virtual disappearance the past couple of weeks, but it's not.  

Daddy's Girl

Nine days ago was a special day, however this is the first chance I'm having to post anything since then.

Today's post is in honor of Father's Day...

Summertime Treat

Summer is in full swing.  That means longer days, more free time and opportunities to catch up with those we love.  

Here is my favorite summertime treat.  It's super easy, yummy and quite impressive visually.  This cake isn't heavy and has a nice, refreshing kick.

The Head Should Be Connected to the Heart

THIS is what I should be doing right now:

  

Followed by THIS:

Hair, Hair, Hair, Hair

Two days in and I'm already longing for cold weather, fireplaces, scarves, and hot mochas!  I am not a girl that likes heat.  In fact, the only thing I enjoy in the summertime is the swimming pool and the ability to travel north and avoid the unbearable Texas heat.  But, enough whining.

Summertime is the best excuse for a haircut.

Summer Break Has Begun

I had to work yesterday morning, but I'm still counting it as the first official day of summer.  After work I headed to see the family, and as usual, we packed the afternoon full.

We girls went shopping to find a new curtain for my living room.  I can't start the remodel without it. We looked every place imaginable a couple of months ago, but never found anything I really liked.  Today, however, we found a cute set at Pier One and it was on clearance!

Here is the first piece to my "new" living room... 

Moore Part 5 of 5

I spent this past Memorial Day weekend in Moore, OK doing disaster relief work with Convoy of Hope.  The only internet access I had was on my phone, so I journaled on notebook paper.  Finally having a chance to type it all out.  I will post each day's entry separately.  Pictures will appear larger if you click them.

MONDAY, May 27th

Moore Part 4 of 5

I spent this past Memorial Day weekend in Moore, OK doing disaster relief work with Convoy of Hope.  The only internet access I had was on my phone, so I journaled on notebook paper.  Finally having a chance to type it all out.  I will post each day's entry separately.  All pictures can be seen in a larger view by clicking them.

SUNDAY, May 26th

Moore Part 3 of 5

I spent this past Memorial Day weekend in Moore, OK doing disaster relief work with Convoy of Hope.  The only internet access I had was on my phone, so I journaled on notebook paper.  Finally having a chance to type it all out.  I will post each day's entry separately.  

SATURDAY, May 25th

Moore Part 2 of 5

I spent this past Memorial Day weekend in Moore, OK doing disaster relief work with Convoy of Hope.  The only internet access I had was on my phone, so I journaled on notebook paper.  Finally having a chance to type it all out.  I will post each day's entry separately.

FRIDAY, May 24th

Moore Part 1 of 5

I spent this past Memorial Day weekend in Moore, OK doing disaster relief work with Convoy of Hope.  The only internet access I had was on my phone, so I journaled on notebook paper.  Finally having a chance to type it all out.  I will post each day's entry separately.  

THURSDAY, May 23rd

Buried Alive

Buried alive, but still breathing! 

My silence this past week is no indication of a lack of activity.  

This past week I...

A Twister of Fate

(The following post was typed yesterday.)

On this day two years ago a little town, that I was barely familiar with, experienced a catastrophic F5 tornado.  One hundred and fifty one families lost someone they loved.  Hundreds of people were injured and displaced, most losing all of their material possessions.

An entire community was changed forever in Joplin, MO on May 22, 2011.

A twenty-nine year-old girl from Texas was forever changed as a result of this infamous tornado.

***

Kinsley and Her Ady

I didn't have to work today.  Ironically enough, it was a pre-scheduled "bad weather day".  Last night I came to my parents' and today I got to spend the entire day with my niece, Kinsley.

Click the pictures for a bigger glimpse into our day...

Social Painting

Last night I hosted a social painting party for my women's Bible study group.  Even though we missed the other six in our group, we girls had a blast!  We started with blank canvases and a black and white picture of our pattern.  Once we'd gotten a good idea of what we were going to do, "went to town" painting.

Week in Review 5.17

CURRENTS

Feeling: Like my allergies are going to kill me.  Excited that we are on the downward slide of the school year.  Ready for a slower paced few months.

Watching:  Last Friday I saw "Gatsby"- it was SO good!!! I don't often leave a theater, from seeing a movie based on a book, and think they kept the integrity of the book and its message intact, but I did with this movie.  It was lavish, edgy, imaginative, creatively used cinematography, showcased great acting, used contemporary music, had beautiful costumes, utilized color and filter to create mood, overall good adaptation of the literature and had nice special effects. It's a MUST see!  

Sweet Surrender

Today has been a REALLY long day. It's 9 PM and I'm just getting home.  I worked 1/2 day, drove an hour each way to the hospital, spent the afternoon with my grandad, who's in ICU, and my parents, taught five piano lessons and went on a wild goose chase to four stores in an unsuccessful attempt to find a new power cord for my router. I am physically and emotionally drained. 

My heart is heavy as I type.  My parents are set to leave in less than two months, my only living grandparent is in ICU and has had a rough day, emotions are high among all the extended family, the current events make me miss my Grandmother- who at the time of her death, six years ago, was my best friend - and I'm coming home to an empty house for what seems like forever. 

Today, as I've questioned God, argued with Him, and struggled to rest in both His prescence and promise, He has gently reminded me once again of my time with my niece. 

Nothing Lasts

"I was thinking how nothing lasts, and what a shame that is."

-Benjamin Button-

Got a text after lunch today that my only living grandparent, Granddaddy, had been in a car accident, had a heart attack and was being rushed to the hospital.

Today I...

Strength and Honor are Her Clothing

1982

Happy Mother's Day to the person I've been the closest to the longest, "Mother".  She is...

Week in Review 5.10

CURRENTS

Feeling: Really good.  Happy with life. :)  Allergies bothering me.

Watching:  "Castle"

Reading: "Changing Gears" by Nancy Sathre-Vogel

Paper Tigers

Tonight I have been reading a book I just purchased entitled, "Changing Gears" by Nancy Sathre-Vogel.  It is the true story about a family of four that took three years and rode their bicycles from Alaska to Argentina.  I found out about this book from a blog I follow- Bohemian Travelers and it hasn't disappointed so far.

At the very beginning of the book, the author describes the moment she questions if she is up for an undertaking of such magnitude.  She describes lying in bed and asking herself the question,

10,000 Reasons

"The sun comes up, it's a new day dawning

It's time to sing Your song again
Whatever may pass, and whatever lies before me
Let me be singing when the evening comes"

-Matt Redman, "10,000 Reasons"- 

I am not a huge fan of modern choruses.  Hymns get my vote 100% of the time; I think they are full of sustainable "meat" and not "fluff".  But, every once in a while a chorus will come along that really hits me.  "10,000 Reasons" is one of those- it has been playing on my iPod and in my head for about three weeks now.  If you're unfamiliar with it, click the link to hear it.

Even though each dawning day brings with it a new song, I find that in my life it seems to carry with it the refrain of yesterday as well.  

Bach and Beyond

The orchestra members were warming up.  The persistent chime of the gong was calling music lovers to their seats.  Excited chatter was accompanied by the sound of scurrying feet coupled with melodic snippets.  All elements of the concert coming together for a brilliant opening.  There was only one problem.  The final piece, the conductor, was slated to appear in five minutes and seat EB7, at the Meyerson, was still empty.

Man, I Feel Like a Woman

Power Tools.

Potting Plants.

Two Trips to Home Depot.

Four Trips to Wal Mart.

DIY Projects.

Spray Paint.

First Time to Have Live Plants.

Yep, I feel like a woman today, or at least a real adult.

*****

Week in Review 5.3

CURRENTS

Feeling: On Wednesday, as I was driving home for the first time ALL day at 10pm, I called Kristina.  After about ten minutes of verbal ranting and childish whining, she suggested I need rest and "alone time" (I rank high on the introvert spectrum).  Boy, was she right!  

Life Lesson Plans

Twenty five.  The number of teaching days left in this school year.  I am counting down, as is every kid  at my school.  I know this by their actions.  The end is in sight and they are checking out.

Many of my upper grade classes have recently decided the following: they don't have to do what they are told; my instructions are negotiable; and that they are too cool for our music lessons.  I undersand this attitude, to a degree, but it is contagious and if I don't nip it in the bud quickly, pretty soon I'm going to have a coup d'état take place in my classroom.  As dramatic as that may sound, step into a fifth grade class full of peer pressure, insecurity and strong personalities with attitude and you'll quickly realize that I'm outnumbered! ☺

Week in Review 4.27

CURRENTS

Feeling: I'm still feeling a little worn out these days.  Working two jobs, trying to fit everything into my schedule, and having a personality that demands downtime is keeping me feeling exhausted.  My current bad eating habits are making it worse.  The weather changes are keeping the arthritis in my back flared up. And, this week has brought with it feelings of loneliness (not to be confused with feelings of "aloneness"). But, I have still felt happy in spite of the above.

Home Team

As I've sat here on my lunch break thinking about what I should write today, only one thing has come to mind: relationships.  Now before you get all excited about the possibility of a post about romantic relationships, don't!  At thirty-one and single, I would be safer writing about how to care for your twenty cats than about how to relate to the opposite sex, and I don't even own any cats. (see yesterday's post)  No, this is a post about people.

Present Day Bridget Jones

If the title of this post is confusing, then you were, obviously, not a young adult in 2001.  "Bridget Jones's Diary" is a movie starring Renee Zellweger,  Colin Firth and Hugh Grant, about the escapades of a single woman named Bridget.  IMBD's description reads, "A British woman is determined to improve herself while she looks for love in a year in which she keeps a personal diary."  Yep, that about sums my life up.  Well, minus the whole British thing- a minor detail. 

Only the Lonely

Sometimes it's just a fleeting thought.

It is often a sudden jab in the gut.  

There are moments that it is a physical ripping in the chest.  

And, on rare occasion it is a crippling emotion that overtakes the senses.

You're Gonna Miss This

The days left before my parents head back to Africa are getting fewer.  For me, this means as much weekend family time as possible.  

If you've noticed how often my hair style and length changes, then you will not be surprised to find out that I like change.  A few years ago when my mom was visiting the states, she and I gave my apartment a complete make-over.  That was about six years ago and I have the itch to do it again.  Next month we are going to completely redecorate my apartment and I can't wait!!!  I'm changing motifs, colors and furniture.  

Week in Review 4.19

CURRENTS THIS WEEK

  

Feeling

Happy

No Greater Love

Wow! What a heavy week this has turned out to be.  So much pain and suffering in such bold print across our nation these last few days.  As I have tried to shake the heaviness of it all, I am continually reminded of Christ and His love for us.

Cookie Monster

I have spent the days since my last post with people I love.  Five sets of people in five days- I am blessed...and tired.  My time has been full, so writing has gotten pushed to the back burner.  Tonight I cheat and post one of my favorite chocolate chip cookie recipes from one of my favorite Amy's.  :)

Come to the Table

Thanks to my friend, Kristina, I read a blog post today written by one of my favorite modern authors. After multiple conversations over dinner with dear friends these past few weeks, this post puts words to how my heart feels.

The following is taken from Storyline Blog and was written by Shauna Niequist.  Click the links to read more from her!

A New Approach to the Table

Week in Review 4.12

CURRENTS THIS WEEK

  

Feeling

Stressed.

Cleaning House

I was able to see my childhood pen-pal last month when she and I both ended up in LA at the same time (Head in the Clouds).  She and her husband are both musicians and are conducting workshops in Fort Worth this weekend and lucky for me, they opted to stay at my place!  As a result, this evening has consisted of preparations for company this weekend.  

Crash and Burn

Tonight I have no deep thoughts.

There are no analogies on my mind.

I'm not in the mood to write about favorites in my life.

Drawing a Blank

I set out blogging with the intention of disciplining myself to writing something everyday, whether it be good or bad, interesting or boring.  My purpose was to turn my thoughts into words on a daily basis.  This goal makes me really focus on the people, thoughts, words, events, etc. of my daily life.  Having a desire to write about life helps me to actually FOCUS on MY life.  With that said, I was reminded today at school that it has been a couple of days since I’ve blogged.

Clear the Stage

They played this at my church this morning.

"Anything I put before my God is an idol

Anything I want with all my heart is an idol

And anything I can't stop thinking of is an idol

And anything that I give all my love is an idol"

Week in Review 4.5

CURRENTS THIS WEEK

  

Feeling

I'm feeling like this has been a particularly long week.

Book Bombing

Ok, before you avid readers think this is a post about burning books, Ray Bradbury style, let me put your mind at ease and simply say, it is not.  You're safe to continue reading.  :)

Hidden In Sight

“So I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. 

For everyone who asks, receives; and he who seeks, finds; and to him who knocks, it will be opened." -Luke 11:9-10

My kindergarteners have this music game they love called, "Turtle, Turtle".  One student hides a stuffed turtle somewhere in the room and another student looks for it.  The clues are given by which dynamic the class sings.  If they sing the little song loudly (forte), the searcher is close to the hidden turtle, but if they sing quietly (piano), the searcher is far away.

Note to Email Subscribers

I am working to get my subscriber email settings where I want them.  I am hoping to have everything the way I want it by the end of the week, please bear with me.  I apologize if you get repeat posts in your inbox, multiple posts, or uncompleted posts today.  I've changed a few settings, but the email generator is automatic, so it may seem a little confusing today.

Picking Thorns

A few weeks ago I went hiking in CA with my brother and sister-in-law (Head In the Clouds).  At one point, while crossing a stream, I slipped.  I quickly put my hands in front of me to break my fall.  My ego was a little hurt, but that seemed to be all...at the time.  

Serendipitous Treasures

Community.  Life Together.  Laughter.

Growth.  Bearing Burdens.  Love.

Encouragement.  Connection.  Acceptance.

Things we all desire.  Things we all need. 

Lessons Learned the Hard Way

We all make mistakes, it's one of the many things that makes us human.  
What contributes to our uniqueness, however, is how we make them and what we learn from them.  

Saturday Morning Infomercials

This is a public service announcement from yours truly.

If you're not familiar with these products, perhaps you should be.

They are staples at my house.

PRODUCTS I LOVE

Heigh Ho, Heigh Ho

It's off to work I go.  Spring break is officially over and I am settling back into routine rather nicely.  As I left Texas last week, I took with me a couple of personal things to sort out.  Upon returning I am quickly realizing that God honored my prayers and I have been able to refocus my perspective on a couple of things that desperately needed to be reshaped.

After spending the week with my brother and sis I concluded my spring break with even more family and fun at home.  I got to spend the weekend loving on this adorable little girl...

Surfer Girl

Ok, so maybe not a surfer girl, but I am now a kayaking girl.  After sleeping in yesterday, we packed lunches and took off for Newport Beach.  The temps were close to 80º; perfect weather for the beach. 

California Dreamin'

What a long day!  It's been non-stop since we started this morning and at 11:00, it's the day winding down.  C and J planned a GREAT day- the kind where you just go, go, go.  I need more days like this where my brain turns off and I can just enjoy my surroundings.  I will definitely be "California Dreamin'" tonight!

Highlights of the Day:

Head in the Clouds

Headed to Pasadena

This morning started early CA time and late TX time.  My body is still confused as to which it should be functioning by.  Caleb, Jaclyn and I enjoyed breakfast and set out for a mountain hike near Pasadena.  Pasadena is about 30 minutes away from Caleb's house.  Jaclyn packed us a picnic lunch and we took off.  The drive out provided a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains.  It was a gorgeous day: clear and in the lower 70's.

We hiked in Angeles National Forest.  The goal: to see waterfalls.  

Travel Colored Glasses

One of the many perks of being a teacher is that I get a week off of work every spring.  This spring break I am getting to visit my brother and his wife in Los Angeles.  I'm super excited to be their first overnight guest as a married couple.

As I was roaming through the airport today, I was once again reminded of why I love traveling so much.

A-dream Take Two

If a picture paints a thousand words, then this is my longest blog entry to date!

Weekend With A-dream

Ethan and Evan, one of my best friend's kids, are spending the weekend with me.  I've known the Lipsey boys practically since they were born and they've called me "A-dream" since they were old enough to talk.  They are two of four of my pseudo nephews/nieces.  I love them to death and we always have a fun time together.

They Say It's Your Birthday

Today has quite possibly been the birthday I've had since I turned nine.  I'm pretty sure I say that every year, well every year except year twenty-nine when I got dumped by my boyfriend ON my birthday, but that's another story.  My special day just seems to get better as time goes on!


My birthday celebrations actually started Sunday when my parents, sister and brother-in-law surprised me with one of my favorite meals and gifts.  On Wednesday my best local girlfriend and her parents had dinner, cake and gifts for me.  And today....

Another Year Has Gone By

Most people come up with yearly resolutions on January 1st.  I don't do this; it's way too much pressure for me.  I'm an all or nothing kind of girl, and when I am not on track with my resolutions by February, I'm done for the year.  I do, however, still set resolutions for myself.  I'm very goal oriented and this helps me not only focus on the future, but it gives me a gauge for how far I've come.  

I set my yearly goals on my birthday each year.

Role Models

"So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone..."

Galatians 6:10

When I was little, one of my favorite things to do with my dad was to visit people in the hospital and go to nursing home services once a month.  I know, this is a little odd, but I'm leaving out that I loved helping him with funerals when I was in high school.  :)  As a pastor's kid you grow up doing these things and don't even realize how abnormal it is until you're grown.

I can remember taking in the smells of hospitals, loving the food, being intrigued with how they were like little cities, and admiring the nurses walking the halls.

Ode to Malawian Culture

I daydream A LOT.  I spend a lot of time thinking about people, life, cultures, travel, the future, what links us together and other random things.  Today I found myself thinking about where my life has been and where I want it to go.  I pondered the term, 'hero'.  I thought about relationships and life events that shape us.

Upswing

This morning, when I fell out of my desk chair, I knew it was going to be a good day! 

This crazy Texas weather can't make up its mind.  Every three days we get a good taste of spring, only to have it ripped from us and replaced with winter.  Today I had to wear thermal underwear under my wind pants.  If you've ever worn wind pants- for those of you born in the 80's I KNOW you've worn them- you know how slick they are on certain surfaces.  Let me tell you, that slickness is multiplied by about 100 when you start layering.  I sat in my chair and immediately slipped out onto the ground.  Luckily, this happened before I had a class.  

No Good Deed Goes Unpunished

Disclaimer: I don't really believe the title of this entry.  :)

In college God, through a mutual friend, gave me one of the best roommates ever.  Although we always had a good relationship, our friendship has grown even deeper in the years since graduation.   Kristina is a vital member of my “inner circle”.   She is deeply caring, creative, an incredible cook, adventurous, appreciates the small things in life, is passionate about people and relationships, has a heart for God and His ways, and sooooo much more.  I am so grateful to call her one of my closest friends.  If you get a chance, check out her blog- All Is Well (she’s also an great writer).

We had a wonderful time of catching up, encouragement and good food.  Life keeps us from getting together often, but when we do have a chance, I leave with my heart feeling just a little bit happier.   On this occasion Kristina brought me a gift- a book entitled, “One Good Deed a Day, a journal”. 

A Day in the Life

The primary reason I started blogging was to become disciplined to writing something everyday.  Yes, I've already been unsuccessful a week into it, but that's the point.  Someday I will travel the world,  hopefully live in another country, and when that time comes I would like to be disciplined enough to write my experiences out.  I spent the summer in Malawi two years ago and my biggest regret is not writing out my thoughts, feelings and experiences. I would come in from a long day of work (I interned at a music school) and would make every excuse why I wasn't in the mood to journal.  I thought that I would remember everything, because life there was SO different than it is here.  Two years later, my memory is like an impressionistic painting.  I don't want to repeat this.  Besides, when the time comes, I want to have enough practice that I can write everything out well.  

The Benefits of Stretching

One of the best things about yoga, in my opinion, is the fact that it's an exercise built around stretches.  Research shows that stretching improves the following: flexibility; range of motion; circulation; pain and relaxation. (LIVESTRONG Benefits of Stretching)  I love to stretch!

Stretching is not always comfortable.  Actually, if I am not in class on a daily basis, stretching is sometimes painful, but the pain is tolerable because I know that it's good for me.

Happy, Happy, Happy

In honor of tonight's Ducky Dynasty marathon:
Things that make me happy...