Pants, Prayers, and Priesthood

Over the past six months or so, in my cultural world, a lot has been made of these three subjects.  Many of you know exactly what I am talking about, but a few of my distant friends, not living along the I-15 corridor will be utterly confused.

In my world and from a very young age, I was taught/believed in very traditional gender roles - the father being a provider, overseer, and patriarch of a home, while the mother bore, nurtured, and taught children.  Both were divine callings from God and were the most important work one could do.  I was very much a traditional girl.  I loved playing with dolls, learning household chores and arts, and couldn't wait until the day I found my prince charming who would complete me.  I not only found comfort in the outlining of the role that was laid before me, I LOVED the idea.  I remember my mother teaching me and I, singing the words of a song; "When I grow up, I want to be a mother, and have a family.....one little, two little, three little, babies of my own.  Of all the jobs, for me, I'll choose no other.  I'll have a family.....four little, five little, six little blessings in my home."   As you can see, I literally took those words to heart.  I am a stay-at-home mother of six and it is MY calling.  As I have gotten older, I have come to realize that not all young girls feel/felt the way I did or had the same dreams I did. 

 This post is to acknowledge those girls/women, who, through no fault of their own, have found themselves "uncomfortable" or "unfit" for the callings presented to them from a very young age; not to demean those who embraced their calling, as I did, because to support and understand another's feelings, even if they differ from our own, doesn't mean that we have to abandon that which speaks to us.

I have one daughter, that from an early age didn't "fit".  Maybe this had to do with the fact that she was the only girl her age at church, maybe it's because she has a tendency to compare, but maybe it's simply because she came with a different set of talents, strengths, and interests than your traditional girl.  She waited in anticipation for Activity Days (the girls equivalent of Boy Scouts in our church) as she had watched her uncles be involved in Scouts; playing basketball, hiking, tying knots, scuba diving, and building things out of wood and metal....just to name a few.  Later I found out how disappointed and out of place she felt while making hair bows, jewelry, and writing/talking about her feelings.  None of these are her strong points or interested her in the slightest.  They only made her feel like something was wrong with her.  These activities also made it very apparent to her that she was different and that to be happy, she needed to conform to "love" these types of stereo-typical girl activities to be accepted and to prepare for her role as a homemaker/mother.  As we all know (in adulthood), not all mothers love to cook, craft, or are the "touchy-feely" type of women, but by the gender biases presented to her at a young age, her interpretation was to shame who she really was and to do her best to change.

About six months ago, there was a push, by a small group of ladies, to wear pants to church.  Traditionally, in my religion, women wear dresses to church.  This being deemed "their best dress".  This idea was proposed to show support of those who had felt marginalized over the years.  Some ladies feel their "best" in a dress (I being one), but some have felt very uncomfortable in a dress, not even like themselves.  On the onset, I found this to be a refreshing idea and since there is no hard and fast rule about what is to be worn on Sunday, only  "Church members are encouraged to wear their best clothing as a sign of respect for the Savior, but we don't counsel people beyond that", I saw no harm in it.  I also felt like trying to understand and support was a very Christlike thing to do.  Boy, was I wrong.  What followed were vicious back and forths over social media, death threats to those promoting the idea to wear "their best dress pants", and those offering support called to repentance.  I think this display of hostility against a cultural/social norm, not a rule, speaks volumes of the correlation found in my culture.

So, here we go again, with another push. This time for prayer equality in our upcoming General Conference where no woman has ever offered the opening or closing prayer.  There is no rule about this social norm either, but in 1978, then-church President Spencer W. Kimball did make an official statement allowing women to pray in sacrament meetings, saying "there is no scriptural prohibition against sisters offering prayers" and adding that it is "permissible for sisters to offer prayers in any meetings they attend." This has spawned another war of words over what is right for women in the church and what is wrong; where there is room for equality and where there isn't, and what equality looks like.

I am also aware of a petition going around to move the church in a direction of granting women the right to hold the priesthood.  This is a very touchy subject to most and one that I am not going to really get into.  I will say that child-bearing has long been held as woman's equivalent gift to the man's priesthood gift.  Unlike a woman's gift of child-bearing, given to her (and all women for that matter, regardless of faith, unless physically impossible) just by her mere genetic make-up, a man's ability to hold the priesthood is a validation of his morality.  She can share in his priesthood through marriage, but can't directly address God in the same way as her spouse.  So what is a woman's equivalent to a man's gift of fatherhood???  Just wondering?

Since I am inactive in my faith, I didn't take part in the Wear Pants to Church day.  Although, if I were active, I like to think that I would have had the courage to show up wearing my pants, even though I realize there would be a social price to pay.  I am inactive for my own reasons and don't fit into other proverbial "boxes".  So, when the reaction to questions that push the social norm, is "if you don't like it, just leave the church", be aware that it is people like me that you are asking to leave.  People that have invested.  People that have loved and served.  People that want to bring their best selves and share, even if they don't exactly fit.  People that believe that sometimes asking questions is what moves us forward. People that long to be a part of what has made them who they are.  People who love the gospel and are willing to endure the social fallout, because of the good that they see there...

or maybe, like me, they will eventually just get tired of trying to fit, being judged for it, take your advice, and just stay home next Sunday.  Don't be too surprised.

Differences.....

Over the past decade or so, through personal and professional decisions (not that I/we are professional at anything, but farming is our profession), I have been introduced and exposed to new ideas and thoughts.  This has been such a lovely experience for me - to meet new people, hear diversity of thought, and to view all aspects of my life through new eyes.  

 

You see, I live in a conservative, monochromatic, small community.  Not that we don't have our share of town kooks and weirdos (I, probably being one of them).  It is a great place to live.  A safe place.  A place I love.  Yet, when anyone attempts to do anything "outside the box", questions arise.  "Why do things differently?", "Isn't the status quo good enough for you?",  "Do you think you are better than the rest of us?", are all things said when new thought or behavior is introduced.  I think this is a natural human reaction, so I am not being disparaging.  I am just acknowledging that a lot of diversity of thought doesn't arise in a community filled with people of the same religious, economic, and cultural backgrounds.  Sometimes new views or thoughts are met with fear, simply out of ignorance.

This became very apparent for me in San Fransisco, while I was there chaperoning a high school band/orchestra trip.  San Fransisco is such the opposite of Preston, Idaho.  Instead of fields of corn, there were rows of houses.  In lieu of snow capped mountains reaching skyward, there were skyscrapers.  There were bridges instead of barns.  All of which fascinated me.

 

I was also fascinated by the talk I overheard on the bus.  I was surrounded by talk of "I would hate to live here", "it is so ugly here", "why would anyone want to live here?".  I, myself, probably wouldn't want to live in San Fransisco, but it does have some things my little town just can't offer.

 

  I am not sure how the kids felt when I tried to change their attitude of fear into one of inquiry.   They might have just wanted the old lady to be quiet.  Regardless, we talked of the music scene there, the diversity of cultures, and how nice the weather was year round.  I tried to point out the nice things about what we were experiencing and hopefully they could see that different doesn't have to be a comparison.  Different doesn't have to mean bad.  It can just mean different.

I really love the picture I posted above.  Why?  Because it symbolizes this whole thought for me.  We all have things we value: things we like and dislike, things we believe and reject, and things that are important to us.  Those things are what defines us as individuals -  it's the rock that is our foundation.   But what I have experienced and what I believe, is that our foundation should never inhibit us from building bridges to others:  other cultures, other religions, other views, and other ways of life.  There is value there.  If not for us, for those living that existence.  To demean their way of life, simply because it is different, without first trying to understand and learn from it, is to demean them as human beings. 

I took this picture while on our tour of Alcatraz.  It is a good reminder to me that out of the most dismal, desolate places, beauty can grow.  That the positive can be found in all kinds of places, if you are willing to look for it.

My Personal Inversion

It's been awhile since I have blogged.  Not that anyone can tell, but I have had an aversion to even logging into my blog.  Why?  I don't know.  I guess sometimes we just need a break from things....even good things.  It's been a nice outlet for me to blog, but lately, I have felt less than inspired to do anything.  What is wrong with me?

I hear a lot of people talk about having Spring Fever.  I suppose that is what you call it when you are ailing from a longing for sunshine, green grass, and the ability to go outside without your nose hairs freezing.  (Or is it when you start feeling more frisky than normal?)  Anyway, I'm not sure if this is what is causing me to want to jump out of my skin or if it's my lack of desire/creativity.

The only way to describe how I feel, is to say that I feel trapped.  Trapped in my house, trapped by the weather, trapped by my responsibilities, and trapped by my own attitude.  Yes, I feel like Randy in that obnoxious snow suit and I want to yell through my suffocating scarf, "I can't put my arms down"!

Sometimes I wonder if this funk I am feeling isn't weather induced, but is due to my age.  Don't women have "issues" around forty?  Can I blame it on my hormones?  Those poor hormones seem to get blamed for more than their fair share....but then again, they do cause us all so much suffering, why not blame them?  Could it be a midlife crisis?  Hell, I hope not!!

On my path to recovery, I saw this posted to my friend's facebook wall.  It seemed to resonate and I shared it there, so sorry for the repeat here.

I commented on her post, as did other friends.  One lady had this to say "Why? "Busy" to me implies accomplishing things, being involved. What does it mean to you if you find it negative?" 

 I went on to explain, that to me, "busy" is doing without purpose.  She followed up my comment with "So what do you call doing WITH purpose?".  This got me to thinking.....and evaluating the feelings of frustration that I have been struggling with lately.  I still haven't come up with a word that would describe "doing with purpose", but I do know that I want to live "with purpose".

As I looked at the things that have occupied my time lately, I realized that I have been living with an imbalance in my life.  The scale's a little heavy on the busy side and light on the purpose side.  I need an adjustment.  This is what I have been trying to achieve, as of late.

So why my break from blogging?  I guess like a lot of other endeavors, it started out fun and then it turned into a "to-do", and finally it felt like a burden.  With all the other "to-do"s that I can't ignore, this was one of the first to go.  I guess I have realized that I shouldn't feel like I have to blog, I should just do it when I feel like I want to or when there is a "purpose".

I do realize that as long as my life is filled with children, it will also be filled with some kind of "busy".  This is unavoidable and a small price to pay for those sarcastic, crazy, fun, lovely creatures that are my kids, but I am ready to do a little spring cleaning of the unnecessary, non-purpose things that somehow have found their way onto the "to-do" list and clutter my mind and my well-being.

So, I am going to open the window, let the fresh air of optimism and creativity fill the corners of my cluttered mind and blow off the dust of monotony.  I will plan fun adventures with my friends, take time to watch good movies, and see the value and beauty of being still. 

 Don't all hamsters need a break from their wheel at least once in awhile?

(Did I just equate myself to a rodent?  Wow - that's an all time low...)

*Also, I would love to hear your word/words for "doing with purpose". 

At Last

How could I pass up, on this, the day of love, the chance to post my most very favorite love song of all time?  I LOVE this song and it's simplicity.

And how could I not dedicate it to the guy who makes my life worth while and still can make me smile?  Love you, Dave.  Thanks for blessing me with a life full of kids, laughs, adventure, meaning, joy, and LOVE.  Here's to us!!

  We all define our own relationships and what it means to show true love.  Some show it with expensive gifts or big productions, but some choose to show it in little ways everyday.  Thanks, David, for making sure I feel loved everyday.  Your quiet, patient way, without need of recognition, means so much.  You see the "real" me and my potential.  Thanks for always encouraging me to be daring, live life to it's fullest, and support me in all my crazy endeavors.  I love you more than you will ever know.

Happy Valentine's Day to all!!  Here's hoping that you've found your true love and enjoy a day celebrating that special someone.

Media Monday - Love On Many Levels

When you are younger, Valentine's consists of puppy love, secret crushes, and shuffling through the box of Scooby-Doo Valentine's to find the best one to give to that special someone.  Then, as you mature (or so you think), you finally get to spend Valentine's with that someone special on a real date and maybe receive your first bouquet of flowers.  Now, a husband and six kids later, I view Valentine's as not just a day to celebrate romantic love relationships, but all of the relationships that I love.  I think this movie addresses all of the various "love" relationships in life: romantic relationships, family relations, and love within a community.

It is definitely quirky, crazy, and abnormal.  I LOVE this movie.  Plus, even as a reclusive, slightly frumpy, strange young man, Ryan Gossling is still to die for.  So, give it a try, what have you got to lose, but a few hours.

Another thing I love about this movie is the music.  It's mostly original score, but to me, some of the most romantic music has no words at all.  It leaves you alone to just feel what it is you want/willing to feel.  Here's a sampling:

I hope we all can appreciate the good and lovely relationships that surround us everyday.  Grateful for those that fill my life with love - no matter how weird and abnormal I seem to be.

Scenes in Red and White

Just because Valentine's brings to mind visions in red and white.....

Just a sampling of the things I love.....

in red and white.

Love red and white enamel ware

and aprons

and vintage pot holders,

kitchen gadgets,

canisters,

and sewing notions,

thread and trim.

What do you love in red and white?

How Do You Know You Are Loved???

This is how!!

When you receive a box on your doorstep addressed to you from your dear friend in Washington!!

You open it and.....

it's filled with glorious treasures!!

What a lovely way to brighten my otherwise dreary, housecleaning day.  Here's a sampling of what was inside.  I just couldn't help, but share!

I love the option with the Peter Pan collar.

Or maybe I should make up this one!

Or this one....

Or any of these would do...but then I think I need a hat.

I think this is my favorite!!  Can you tell I'm a little giddy about the whole thing?  And, there was more prizes....

some fabric too!!

So how do you know you are loved?  When someone knows you well enough to know what it is you love and to think of you often enough to pick up treasures for you along their way.  I am just so happy - love you, Debra!!  Wish the miles didn't separate us, so I could give you a giant hug.  Although it might be kind of scary, the damage we could do, if we lived closer!!  The thought of it just makes me smile!!  Thanks for loving me!

Walking the Line

It being Monday, and me previously declaring Media Monday, I thought I would share one of my favorite romantic movies.  It's not one with a fairytale ending necessarily, but it does address the villains that some face - strained family relations, marital issues, and drug abuse.  It's a true life story with ups and downs and messiness.  Amongst the messiness that is life, a true love story is found.  That is what I love.  That is what is real.

After watching the show, I grew to have a new appreciation for the darkness in Johnny Cash's music.  I had never before been a fan, but I now listen to him on a regular basis.  He doesn't hide hurt and pain with flowery lyrics or melodies.  He's a straight shooter.  I like that.  He can be dark yet still embrace the beauty of love - it's usually not all one way or another.  My take-away from the movie is that life is hard and messy, but can be tolerated, rejoiced even, if you have the love of another.  Also, that loving someone means you love all of him/her - good and bad, agree and disagree - and that you see the best in one another, help each other find it, and expect it.  Also, that truly loving someone means that out of respect for that person, you put him/her first, not your own desires.  Whether it's as big as being true to each other or as small as turning their socks right side out.

 I think he says it best in this song.  I actually find this song truly romantic.  Who would have thought?

When you find true love it should be cherished and handled very carefully.....and if that means walking the line, it's well worth it.

My Thing for Bing

After my last post, I felt the need to take a little break.  I cannot say enough how grateful I am for such love and support.  Life is good.

With the new month, I am ready to put the bone chilling cold behind me and bask in the warmth of the month of love - yeah for February!!  

I have always struggled with Valentine's Day.  I most definitely have someone I love....well, lots of people I love, but I just never know the best way to convey how much they all mean to me.  As trite as it might seem, nothing seems to say "I love you" quite like a great love song.  A lot of love songs produced in the last twenty years seem to lack sincerity to me.  Ones from the Golden Era seem to resonate with me on a level that newer ones just don't.  Lyrics from the past are simple and sincere.  They aren't complicated with the quirks of modern day relationships.  In the spirit of the month I thought I would try and share a few of my favorites.  Here is one of my all time favorite singers singing a beautifully simple, heartfelt desire - 

I adore Bing Crosby and his smooth, soothing voice. That is probably why Emilee and I encouraged Steven to be Bing for his wax museum project.  I loved Bing before, but after helping Steven with his research, I realized what an accomplished man he truly was.  I only wish he was around a little longer so we all could get a little more of him.

Here is Steven's take on Bing -

 

I was so proud of him.  He did a terrific job!  Enjoy your month of love!

Setting the Record Straight

My weekend was mostly filled with joy and the laughter of family at home.  Amid the ciaos, there was one event that I have tried to push to the back of my mind, but it keeps bubbling up and then bringing me down.  I have tried hard not to address it in one way or another because I loath drama and I feel like I would only be opening myself up for criticism and judgement - which doesn't promote any kind of love or understanding.  With all that said, I feel the need to set the record straight and possibly avoid some questions.  I do realize that writing this post might also cause more questions, but answers to those questions are personal and as I try to respect others' rights to their own journey, I would hope that those who care about me most, would do so in return.

I believe it is no secret that David and I are no longer active in our faith.  This was not a rash decision that we made to convenience our desires to be worldly, immoral, or lazy. This decision came after years of thought, study, and prayer - all the things that we were raised knowing were best in making life decisions.  We truly tried to make sense of the things that were uncomfortable to us, but we realized that this was impossible for US.  The morality that we were raised trying to attain, kept us from shelving our questions.  I am not assuming that this need be the case for anyone other than myself and David, as many can push aside questions or take things on faith.  Wherever anyone finds peace and the inspiration to do good, I honor and have no desire to disrupt.
 

  Making such a decision has not been easy for many reasons. There are the questions that many have of why, the social fallout for our children and ourselves, and the isolation of not being able to express the myriad of emotions and thoughts that you are experiencing because they will be misconstrued as an agenda.  I have neighbors that will not wave at me anymore, as if all the good that once made "me" has been lost through my disaffection.  All of these things I have learned to deal with.  They are all consequences of my decision to remove myself, but in an effort to be respectful of others', I have left my life open to speculation.  I have heard rumors that I/we have been offended, that we are angry, or that we have been led astray by anti- mormon literature.  All of these are false.  I wanted nothing more than to continue in the way of my heritage and to make sense of all of it, but I have now realized that for me personally, I am happier just accepting that it is not the place of inspiration and peace that it once was.  I was very sad for a long time, but I have found peace with my decision and I am happy.  I am happy wrestling with the questions and living my life with as much integrity as possible, not by doing what will keep me popular or above scrutiny.

I know that talk will happen and most just try and fill in the blanks with reasons of why.  This might make them feel more at peace, but when the rumors are so far from the truth, they are hurtful and sting.  I heard over the weekend that a rumor is floating that David and I are getting divorced.  At first it was laughable, but as I pondered who had said this and was passing it on, it became very hurtful, so I felt a real need to set the record straight.  I have done some questionable things in my life, but choosing to marry David is the one truth that I have never questioned.  This is what has sustained me through all of the difficult times.  We are truly best friends and our love and devotion for each other is solid.  David is the most wonderful husband and father that anyone could ask for.  I know a good thing when I see it/got it. He and the children are my world and that is where I find my peace and joy.  End of story......or at least I hope so.

I love my life and this man.

*I view this post as a declaration.  I would ask that no one try to engage me about who/what/when this happened, as more gossip isn't the answer.  I just needed to clear my head.  As for those of you that had no idea about my inactivity, I would hope that you could still see me for who I am and love me regardless of what you feel are my flaws and I will return the favor.  I would also respectfully decline any inquiry as to why we are no longer active as the discussion seems to bring about more misunderstanding than not.  Peace and love to you all.

Fun with Flora

Yesterday I was lucky enough to spend the whole day with my niece, Flora. I say "lucky", because my brother and sister-in-law actually asked my oldest daughter, Emilee, if she would babysit while they went to the Sundance Film Festival.  How fortunate I was that Emilee had class all day and that they accepted my offer to come and play. 

Our time together was mostly spent on the floor with toys.  A few pictures were taken and I laughed a lot.  I think the best part was rocking her to sleep.  That's when I remembered how much peace a baby can bring.  What a precious time for me.  She won't remember a thing, but I won't forget our one on one time together.

Flora's funny squishy face.

Growling at me.

Eager to learn to crochet.

What a sweet baby!

Thank you Ryan and Heidi - what a treat!!

Media Monday

In an endeavor to organize my thoughts and my blog, I have decided to cover certain topics on certain days.  Monday has been deemed Media Monday.  This is where/when I get to share any form of media that I have found inspiring over the past week.  To launch this idea, I have decided to share a magazine that inspires me.  It's a little difficult to find.  It's not mainstream enough to be found at your big box stores, but can be found at JoAnn's or other various crafting stores.

I believe that it's published in the UK.  It is beautifully inspiring, filled with photos, patterns, and spotlights of different artists.  It's a little more pricey than some, but it always comes with a little "freebie" that you can use in making one of the crafts in the magazine or use in one of your own. 

This issue came with a calendar for the upcoming year.  The photos are amazing and inspiring - in makes you want to jump inside and live there.

I've decided to use my calendar to schedule out my creative endeavors, aside from my everyday, crazy, run around duties that govern most of my life.  My time being creative is special to me and so it's planning should have a special place all it's own.

It would seem wrong on Media Monday to not mention the inauguration of our new president.  What a great opportunity to visit with my children about the workings of our government and the great freedoms we are lucky enough to be granted simply by being born in the right place at the right time.  Also, the fact that it is taking place on Martin Luther King Day is significant.  Many choose to complain about the loss of personal freedoms, but we live in a time where more freedoms have been granted to more people than at any other.  I am happy and blessed to be an American and days like today help me to refocus, not on what I think is wrong, but with all that is so right.  We have come a long way and for that I am proud.  Happy Monday to you all.

From Mirror....

"From mirror, to window, to door"

I ran across this quote this morning.  I jotted it down quite a few months back from a lecture I heard while at a women's conference in Moab, Utah.  I really can't remember the context of which the quote was taken, but it's not necessary as all things speak to us differently at different times.  I have pondered on it and have come to find it brilliant.

We look in mirrors everyday.  We check our hair, our teeth, our makeup.  We worry so much about how others will perceive us that we tend to only focus on the attributes at the surface, but are these attributes truly what define us?   I hope not.  How often to do we pick up our mirrors and really look at who we are?  Do we see what those around us see?  Our faults?  Our strengths?  Our potential?  Or, is all of it too hard to deal with?  It's so much easier to slap on some lipstick and call it good.

The first of a new year is always a good time for self evaluation.  So many of us do it and so many of us lose sight of it a week or two in.  Change is hard and it takes time.  But most importantly, it takes a vision of what COULD be and resolve to make it so. 

Like looking out a window, as you step closer to who you truly are and your potential, your view expands as to what is possible.  To see your potential and how it can affect others and the world around you, can be overwhelming, yet empowering.  It's like admiring a beautiful landscape through a window, dreaming of what adventures you could have if you only had the courage to make it so.

Opening the door, the door that is the possibility of all that you could be, is the scariest part.  In opening the door, you open up yourself to criticism and maybe even ridicule.  That is difficult.  It's not like having a bad hair day that you can fix tomorrow, it's a judgement of who YOU are.  The trick is learning that the joy of the adventure truly outweighs the dismissal of your endeavors.  Those who want to judge will judge and those who are willing to embrace and love will choose to do so regardless.

I have so many beautiful examples of courage in my life.  Those women who embrace possibility and face it head on and never look back.  These women are the ones that encourage me to look in the mirror, dream as I gaze out my window,  push me out the door with their enthusiasm, and believe in my journey.  Thank you for seeing ME - not the outside me, but the inside me.  Your love and enlightenment inspire me along my journey.

Hoop Dreams - Maybe...

I most definitely love my kids.  This means that I want to make them happy.  This also means sacrifice.  Every Mom knows that you spend a lot of time facilitating things for children because it is important to them, not you.  Motherhood isn't about you at all...

You see, five of my six kids love basketball.  Most of my children are taller than average, so it seems like a pretty good fit.  Anymore, to insure that they get the opportunity to excel at what they love, you must go above and beyond trying to help them improve their skills, learn to be aggressive, and also to play on a team with others.

This would be okay for someone with a couple of kids, or someone who's children didn't all love the same thing.  I would be lying if I didn't say that there are times I feel overwhelmed by the sheer amount of time I spend running kids to and from practices and games, but it was all of my own doing.  Plus, you can't allow one to pursue his/her love and not the others.

So after this long rant about how picked on I am, I just want to say with all things considered, I am super proud of each of my children's determination, dedication, and their resolve to do their best.  When I stop long enough to catch my breath and look at it in a different perspective, I am getting way more back in return than I have invested.

Just wanted to share some pics of my kiddos.

Hannah driving in.

Lottie shooting.

Maren going up for the rebound.

Herman handling the ball.

Steven's lay up.

Even with all the time invested, they still miss shots, make mistakes, don't always get the credit they deserve, and deal with disappointment, but isn't that life?  That is really what I hope they take away - life lessons and skills.

Just to clarify.....I do not have NBA dreams for my children.  With all of the basketball, I wonder if we've been mistaken for that "crazy basketball family".  But really, who cares?  My kids love it and I love them, so there you go.

*Just a shout out to Elite basketball and their amazing coaches.  They have a lot to do with the progress my kids are making.  Thanks DB and Jeff!!

Missing Gigi

By the end of summer, I am really anxious for cooler weather and less to do outside.  Summer is an endless cycle of pipe moving, yard work, and sweating.  But just like most of you, I am currently wishing for warmer temperatures and some time out of the house.  Lately I've felt like a caged animal - scary as that might be.

In an effort to cheer myself up, I've been looking - while longing - at some inspirational photos of warm weather activities and thinking lovingly of my time spent with Gigi.  We spent so many hours together last summer.  There were exciting times, frustration, and a sense of satisfaction.  I truly long to be with her again.  Too bad she is covered with a tarp and all locked up for the winter.

I am anxious to be reunited, but until then, I have been inspired to do some fun projects that will enhance her beauty.  

I found this picture on pinterest, of course.  What better way to spend my time couped up in the house than making an afghan of granny squares for my sweet Gigi that once belonged to my granny?  I am excited to get going on this!  Here is some of the yarn that I bought...so bright and cheery!

I have this great book with a bunch of granny square variations.  Now the hard part, choosing which design to use.

 I am also gearing up to make some cute out door lights for her with cups, fabric, and a little modge podge.  Finally, I've been working on some fun projects with spray paint and thrift finds.  You can check those out under the Re-use, Re-purpose, Re-cycle tab at the top of this page.

We always seem to wish for what we don't have - cooler weather, warmer weather, more Symphony bars in the freezer...  Anyway, I will choose to be grateful for my time inside, because it's time that I can get ready for some fun in the sun!!

Cross Over the Bridge

I just heard some sad news.  During Lottie and my Sunday tradition of watching the CBS Sunday Morning News, I was made aware that, last Tuesday, Patti Page passed away.  

A lot of my peers, I imagine, have no idea or would care much of her passing.  I, on the other hand, am slightly saddened.  You see her Greatest Hits album is like the soundtrack to the time spent at Grandma and Grandpa Fonnesbeck's house.

My love of Patti Page was born of convenience.  When Grandpa wasn't out in the yard playing with us, he was in the front room, watching golf.  We didn't really care who was up by how many strokes, who'd just birdied hole 16, or who'd just won the coveted green jacket.  We just didn't want to sit and watch that boring sport.  During these times is when Grandma would have us dust her dining room table legs for a quarter.  I'm sure this was done to curtail our rambunctious nature while inside.  Our task was always done to the sounds of Patti Page.  We would start the record, crawl under her ornate table and spend the first couple of songs dusting.  Then we would finish out the record while visiting, singing along, or dancing.

We all became very familiar with Patti and her classic songs.  How happy I was a few years back when I found her Greatest Hits on CD.  I immediately ordered it and spent a day sewing and thinking of my grandparents who had passed away years previous.  It was so fun to hear those songs as an adult and realize her musical talent on a new level.  I love old music.  It was long before autotune and the other technological advances that artists use today.  You know that what you hear is REAL.  Here's one of my favorite songs.  It also seems fitting somehow to share it, since she has crossed over to another place.

Now, I am headed upstairs to dig through my stack of CDs in hopes of honoring her and my grandparents today.

Being Grateful To Be Uncomfortable

As this year has come to an end, I can only be grateful.  The past year has been filled with many wonderful moments spent with family and friends.  It also included many new adventures and opportunities that have pushed my limits and helped me to better understand myself and the world around me. Sometimes it is only when we move out of our comfort zone that we discover things we never imagined.  I found this quote and love it.

"Be willing to be uncomfortable. Be comfortable being uncomfortable. It may get tough, but it's a small price to pay for living a dream."
Peter McWilliams

So, like everyone else, I have been evaluating my year and making my own resolutions on how to better myself and benefit those around me.  There are some dreams that I would like to pursue, some crazy ideas to investigate, and a lot of hard work ahead, but I want to push myself to be "uncomfortable".

One of the crazy ideas that I have been tossing around came to me over a the past few months.  It will take me out of my comfort zone and probably make others wonder about my sanity.  I have set up another blog to record my thoughts about my journey of self discovery and insight.  You can check it out @ www.skirtingit.blogspot.com.  Here's a picture to give you some kind of idea of what I will be doing.

I hope you will check it out, as I would love to have you travel this strange journey with me.  Isn't any road traveled more enjoyable when accompanied by friends?  I say, yes!