LOVE DOES

 

 

I started reading the book, Love Does, after my dear friend at 10,000 Reasons suggested I needed a break from research articles.  After a quick download (or is it upload?) to my Kindle, I grabbed a cup of hot green tea and settled on the couch under my favorite blue blanket.  I set my phone to silent, not wanting to be disturbed, and began reading. What I didn't finish in the home, I finished on my flight home.  (Yes, that was me dabbing away tears during the final chapter).  A delightful story of one man and his love for all things whimsy, it is sure to warm your heart.  If nothing else, it'll have you thinking about what LOVE DOES in your life. 


Here's a glimpse into mine...



Most people wouldn't drive four hours through tornado warnings to attend a wedding in which they only know the bride... who they haven't seen in years.   But, LOVE DOES. 

 

 

Raising $2,300 could intimidate anyone.  But, LOVE DOES...

and brings along a friend to help raise over $4,600.  And because love is bold, it'll walk 60-miles in three days. 

 

 

 Needing shelter from a sweltering New York summer day may seem impossible.  But LOVE DOES offer a place of rest for all who seek it. 

 

 

 

Work never takes a break.  But, LOVE DOES and takes you on a grand trip because "work can wait".

 

 

  We often wonder what moves kids.  LOVE DOES.  And then they send postcards and painted tiles to NYC after 9/11 to show their own love.  

 

 

 

Life is an adventure.  You may not always understand the change of tides, the storms that linger, or the waves that crash on you.  But, LOVE DOES.  And it will be there, waiting. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sweet Mess

A few years ago, my sister packed what little she had in the home we shared and moved to North Carolina to pursue a second degree.  Suddenly feeling alone, I found myself tying on an apron and learning my way around the kitchen.  Known for setting off the smoke detector while boiling ramen noodles and having to extinguish a grease fire with one of those clunky red extinguishers (true story), I knew it would be challenging.  At the least, it would offer a chuckle or two- things I’d been missing since she left.   

After two years of whipping up meals, I never got called to be on Top Chef.  I’m not sure why they thought my microwaveable meals weren’t Top Chef worthy.  But, since cooking didn’t work for me and I still wanted to wear my apron, I tried my hand at baking.  It wasn’t pretty- still isn’t- but boy did it taste good.  (I didn’t join Weight Watchers just to step on a scale each week!) 

And so, here I am today…  covered in powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and food coloring.  I’m starting to think I enjoy baking because it’s a reflection of my life:  messy, but oh so sweet!

 

 

Running on empty

My poor friends with children always seem to be tired.  Good golly, I’m always tired and I don’t even have kids… or pets…or an excuse! But, I digress.  Back to what I was saying.  My darlin’ friends, with their sweeter than sugar kiddos, are sleep deprived, up to their eyeballs in toys, and swimming in piles of laundry.  Don’t believe me?  Ask Mrs. Texas!  So, when I saw these cute little fellas over at IOU Letterpress, I just KNEW I had to have them! 

First, who doesn’t love receiving mail (that isn’t requesting a payment)?  And secondly, who could refuse a proposal this genuine?  This isn’t just your casual, in passing, hope-they-forget-you-mentioned-it offer.  Oh no, when delivered in the mail on luxury paper this says, “Why yes, I am an angel coming to rescue you.”   So, if you’ve heard your dear friend crying for help, grab one of these. (And maybe save one or two for me!) I doubt she’ll be able to refuse!

Changing your life... one word at a time.

The rain has started here, which means only one thing… winter has officially begun in southern California.  I know. I know.  We have very little, if anything, to be complaining about.  However, in our defense (wait, am I suggesting I’m now one of them?), rain in SoCal is like snow in DC; it requires actual thinking when preparing to dress for the day and an additional 15 minutes for your commute.   In fact, enough rain and you could find yourself out of work for the day (or in my case, skipping a trip to the grocery store) and instead, opting for a good book, an old pair of sweatpants, and a giant cup of hot tea.  Lately, this has been my book of choice:

 

If you haven’t heard of this book (shame on you), then you’re in for a real treat.  Go ahead, grab a cup of tea (or cocoa) and settle in for a few minutes.  This, my darlings, is about to change your life. 

“My One Word”, written by, Mike Ashcroft, is a book for those of us who like the idea of resolutions but feel they always fall short of actually making an impact on our lives.  Though it is written with a religious perspective, it can easily be adapted.  In fact, for some with no or very little religious foundation, it can be the spark that lights a fire.  (You can see for yourself as you take a peek in to my dear friend Emmy’s life and how one word changed it.)

The idea behind the book is as sweet and charming as the small coastal town in which it was written.  Mike Ashcroft, with the help of Rachel Olsen (on faculty at UNCW- a little shout out for my alma mater!!) have written, what I would consider a guide, to becoming more like the person you aspire to be and with just ONE step.  Their light-hearted and witty approach keeps you engaged and focused on making a resolution to change your life (and those around you) and then keeping it.   

So, grab your Kindle, head to Barnes and Noble, or log on to Amazon and buy yourself a copy. Not in the mood to purchase?  Visit the website http://myoneword.org/about/, which will give you enough information to get started without the book. Then, come back in a week and hear about my “One Word” and how it’s already changing my life. 

A letter of thanks...

 

Dear Friends, Family, and Personal Cheerleaders,

This morning, I write each of you with an overwhelming sense of pride and honor (mixed with the sweetest tears of joy). Words could never begin to touch on the emotions I have as I move forward as the Military Spouse of the Year for our military installation. My hope is that within me, you will find a reflection of every spouse who humbly stands beside their Marine. This recognition is not meant for me alone, but is for each husband, wife, and significant other whose strength and sacrifice provides the love and support our service members need to do what they do best. Your devotion to the military and those that serve in its name is just as deserving as I. This is not a life you accept, it is one you live and love. It is not done alone, but alongside those you admire and recognize as “family”. Because of each of you, military and civilian, I stand here today, not surviving, but thriving, in this ever changing life. Thank you. I hope that as the year progresses I represent the compassion each of you has bestowed upon me in my life and with the kindness and humility that inspires others to do more, give more, and live more.

Over the next few weeks, I will begin preparing to face the next round of voting and hope that once again I can call on each of you for your support. I hope you find that after reviewing profiles of the other Marine Corps installation winners, that you will find I am the best representative and advocate for all Marine Corps spouses. And if you do, it would be my honor to have your vote on February 5^th, 2013. Again, thank you for your continued support and encouragement.

 

With great respect and admiration,

Kacie

It's hard work being a CEO...

Recently I became the CEO of a highly recognizable company – The Household.   There were several disgruntled employees (dust bunnies, coffee stains, empty refrigerator, hungry husband), but ultimately they gave in and emphatically brought me on board and welcomed me in to my new position.  This was just a mere few weeks ago and already I feel as though the changes I’ve made have been for the best (not to mention long overdue). 

In my first week, I knew I would be faced with the inevitable- letting go of things that have been a staple of The Household.  This task was of course, quite daunting, and left me with extreme anxiety as I began my job.  Shortly after starting, I pulled out the broom and began sweeping up the mess that had been left for too long.  The dust bunnies were the first to go and didn’t even put up a fight.  They knew their time here was over.  The coffee stains had other plans and proved to be quite resistant.  It was a struggle for power, but I eventually won.  The empty refrigerator was replaced with the help of some much needed resources (which I’ll happily share, soon) and I’m proud to say that business here at The Household is off to a great start in the new year. 

Below you’ll find a list of a few of those changes that deserved immediate attention as well as the solution that has made a positive difference.  My hope, is that as CEO’s of your own companies such Home.Is.Where.The.Mess.Is and Cottage.Gone.Crazy, you’ll find some peace in knowing these resources exist and won’t put a dent in your budget!

 

Problem One:  Empty Refrigerator

Visit this online recipe box and you’ll be ready to fill your fridge and your bellies with easy, no nonsense, healthy choices to those every day classics you forgot existed.  Yes, your meal can look like this:

www.skinnytaste.com
And it IS as good as it looks!

Don’t forget to head on over to the planning department for my favorite meal planner forms to help you with your shopping.  This will save you time and money when walking the aisles of your grocery store.  My tip, plan meals that involve some of the same ingredients over a two week period; one trip to the store and you’re done.  If you’re a CEO of a larger company than mine, you might prefer this.  If you’re lucky enough to have “assistants”, take a moment to look here before embarking on your next trip (the former teacher in me would appreciate you making it a “teachable moment”).

 

Problem Two: Overworked Employees

Right in line with the Empty Refrigerator issue, I found that my one and only employee was working two jobs, with very little to show for it.  I brainstormed and immediately thought of Thankful Thursdays.  Each Thursday I make a different sweet treat for him to share with his boss (GREAT option) or take to his other job.  I’ll start sharing my Thankful Thursdays in the future, but for now, enjoy this little sweet treat recipe from Kacie’s Cupcakes (my “other” job).

Triple Chocolate Peanut Butter Surprise

Prep Time: 5 Minutes

Cook Time: 20 Minutes

Level: Easy

Serves: 16-18 Cupcakes

 

Ingredients:

1 box of triple chocolate cake mix (Ghiradelli)

**Whatever else is necessary to complete the box recipe**

1 box of instant fudge pudding (surprise!)

1 bag of Peanut Butter Cups

1 bag of Reese’s Peanut Butter Chips

Jiffy’s Peanut Butter (or whatever you prefer, those this is the BEST for icing)

1 bag of powdered sugar

½ lb unsalted butter at room temperature (or ½ cup Crisco for that crisp icing)

1 teaspoon vanilla (more to taste if necessary)

 

Directions:

1.     Prepare cake mix as directed on box.  Add ½ the dry pudding mix.  Pour in to cupcake molds (I always spray mine and try not to use liners unless making them for others. I spray my liners, too). 

2.    Unwrap the PB Cups. Push the PB Cups upside down in the middle of each cupcake so that they are flush with the top of the mix.

3.    Bake as directed.  NOTE:  You can NOT put a toothpick through these so always check your cakes starting at 5 minutes before the buzzer is set to expire.  Check often so they don’t burn.

4.    Eat extra PB Cups (check for quality control, of course!)

5.    Let cool for 5 minutes in tin, then transfer to wire rack.  Let cool completely.

6.    Prepare Icing:

a.     Sadly, I don’t have an exact measurement, as I like to just continuously taste until I think it is perfect.  But, start with:

·   1 cup of peanut butter, 1 cup of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla, and ¼ cup of softened butter.

·   Beat butter and peanut butter until creamy.

·   Slowly add the powdered sugar by ¼ cups.

·   Add vanilla.

·   Continue until you have reached your desired consistency and taste, alternating between the powdered sugar and peanut butter. Add more butter if you’d like it to be creamier. (I almost ALWAYS use an entire bag of powdered sugar-  ooops! )J

To Ice Cupcakes:  Place in Ziploc bag.  Cut one corner off to make a small triangle.  Squeeze gently and swirl as you go! Sprinkle PB chips on to! 

 

In a rush?!?!  Use a store brand container of icing, add peanut butter, whip and go! J

 

Problem Three: BORED CEO

Don’t let the day to day routines get you in a rut.  Remember, CEO’s take vacation days, too!  Get out and enjoy things (and the company of others) that make you happy.  I recommend at least once a week.  Gather with other CEOs and consider it a business meeting!

 

A small CEO meeting along the shores.  We were "planning" for sure!

I Choose Faith

Recently a friend posted an article that, quite frankly, hit a nerve.  Perhaps it’s because I had only a couple hours of sleep from anxiety of a new semester, only enough time for one cup of coffee this morning instead of my usual three, or that my stomach was growling.  But it hit that nerve and my thoughts suddenly gushed out in the form of words which found their way on Facebook.  My friend, bless her heart, never saw it coming.  

I wasn’t mean in my post.  Nor did I attack her.  However, I did want to stand my ground, which had just been firmly pulled out from underneath of me.  My world, the one I had spent the past 14 years building (I became a follower at 16), was not only questioned but mocked.  Suddenly, the woman who is always quiet and poised became loud and heard.  (That’s the thing about us southern women; we can only hold our tongues for so long.)

Here is what I said (because one must always own what they say):

Of course, I would be the one that has to come up with a response to this post (which is in the works). However, just to touch on the end... we all believe in something. That something can be God or it can be nothing. Suggesting our beliefs should not be worn outside our homes and church is upsetting. Why should we not wear who we are when those who don't believe are always letting the world know exactly how they feel about God?  If those that don't believe in Him can discuss Him so freely, then why can't I?

To which her response was:

I think (without being able to go back and reread at this moment) that the point she's driving at is that we get criticized all the time for verbalizing our beliefs in nothing. We get told frequently that we're going to Hell, or that we're damming or children, or we're sinners, etc. it very rarely goes the other way. I would never criticize someone for their belief in God, but i do ask that those who believe keep their judgments to themselves. Talk about God all you want, but do not force him into my life or pass judgment onto me for not believing the same way.

Oh I should’ve had that second cup of coffee:

Sadly, it does go the other way. The entire article called us believers, liars. It was a rant that went on to tell us all that we have sold our kids on a lie, made fools of ourselves, and our children are the reason the world is the way it is. Though each are entitled to their own, I'm tired of hearing from non-believers that they are offended by the strength of our faith and the voice that does not shake. I do not pass judgment on you for the way you wish to raise your child, but please, do not pass judgment on us because we have chosen a different path.

She, also a big time caffeine fan, and probably having withdrawal, then said:

I totally disagree. She simply stated how she sees things. She did not call anyone out. She simply stated the other side of the coin. She never once said that anyone who believes in God is a liar, just that she cannot believe and these are her logical reasons why.

I've never EVER passed judgment on anyone who does believe, and certainly have never called anyone a liar, a fool, etc. But what I have heard, TO MY FACE, is that I'm evil, damning my child to an eternity of fire and brimstone, and that we deserve that. REALLY? Whether I believe in Heaven/Hell, God/Satan or not...is that something a so-called "good Christian" should say to another human being, regardless of religious belief?

I'm not offended by the strength of anyone's faith. I am offended when they say the things aforementioned. I am offended when they try to force my child to believe. (For example, when an adult told Maddie not to say "Oh my god!" because it was wrong to take HER lord's name in vain and she was committing a sin.) I am offended when they say I'm a bad person because I think differently than they do. You don't need to believe in god to be a good person, who serves others and teaches their child/ren to do the same. Atheists experience a different kind of religious persecution, the same as many Christians have throughout the years.

And… I threw in the towel.

Until now…

 

I respect this person.  She is an extremely talented professional photographer, an amazing mother to a spunky kiddo, and a phenomenal wife (I assume because I’ve never heard otherwiseJ).  I would consider her my friend (and hope she does as well and hasn’t bought a voodoo doll since I decided to open my mouth).  She also happens to be a nonbeliever who has chosen to raise her child without religion.  Hence, the reason she posted the article in the first place. 

I am an extremely talented napper, amazing mother to a thousand dust bunnies, and also a phenomenal wife (because he better not say otherwise).  I would consider myself her friend (and have NOT bought a voodoo doll because that would just be mean!).  I happen to be a believer who has chosen to follow and serve the Lord.  Hence, the reason I’ve posted this response to the original article:

I Choose Faith

I write this as Mumford & Son’s “I will Wait for You” plays loudly, bringing to life the words of my heart.  I remember the first time hearing the lyrics and the tears that flowed as I heard myself speaking to God through their song. 

“Well you forgave and I won’t forget.  So tame my flesh and fix my eyes…and I’ll kneel down and wait for now.  I’ll kneel down.  I will wait for you.” 

 I have heard this song a thousand times since and each time it gives me chills and brings me to tears.   I wonder how many others have heard this song and found themselves wondering where God fits in to their lives.  Perhaps they hear God speaking to them…

I will wait for you. 

Our God is patient.  He waits for each of us.  He waited 17 years for me.  And if he has to wait a lifetime for you, he will. 

Like a father, he waits for all of his children to come home.

Why do I believe this?

I believe because I can’t imagine living a life for no purpose other than to die.  If there is no Heaven or Hell, then why exist?  Why work so hard to leave a legacy for our children, if in the end, it won’t matter?  If there is no consequence for the life we lead and no reward for the path we’ve chosen, then why do believers (and nonbelievers) place so much emphasis on “doing what’s right”?  If, when our life is over there is nothing, then what harm is there to have spent a lifetime as a reflection of the love God has shown us?  I believe because to me, there is no other choice. 

And, when I have children, they will hear his words and know his love.  It will be up to them to make the decision as to whether to accept Christ in their hearts and follow a life of faith.  I will not make the choice for them.

And you?  If you have made a choice not to follow Christ, then my faith should not bother you; for you do not believe in such things as Heaven or Hell.  The cross that hangs around my neck should hold no meaning to you and therefore should be of no offense.  And when I say, “God bless you” when you sneeze, do not be angered for those words are of no value to you.   

But when you say…I want my children to be free not to believe and to know that our schools and our government will make decisions based on what is logical, just and fair—not on what they believe an imaginary God wants… understand that those terms can only be defined by right and wrong, which was established by God.

Still have doubts?  Read this!

Oh SNAP!

 If you've ever driven through a small, southern town on a Sunday afternoon, you've probably noticed a porch full of people- families gathered together after church.  Grandchildren are running around, parents are sipping sweet tea, and the youngest is always perched on the lap of the oldest in attendance.  The south is notorious for Sunday gatherings, though I'm sure they're not the only ones.



My grandmother, southern and modest, having her leg shown
after my Papa pulled up her skirt.

In our family, Sundays were always spent at my grandparents' home, either swimming in their pool during the spring and summer months or fighting for the corner spot on the couch in front of the fireplace the rest of the year.  There was always sweet tea, brownies, and chocolate candy despite the fact my grandfather is diabetic.  It was the comfort of being with family, the ease in which we came and went, and the release of stress that occurred when you walked in the door that I cherished most.  The memories are etched in my mind I just wish I had some to hold.


My grandfather, not really a fan of cameras, is hardly in any of the pictures I do have.  Now that I am 2,000+ miles from home and my grandmother has passed, I wish I had more.  Which brings me to the reason I'm writing today:  take pictures.



Like my grandfather, I also hated being in pictures (though I was always about snapping them).  I never like my outfits, hair... basically, I never liked the way I looked.  And so, I always found a reason to leave the room when a camera was around or turn my head right as a picture was being snapped.  That is, until I realized that life is not forever. 

Some time after my grandmother was diagnosed with Alzheimer's (which you can read about here), I realized how important these family relics were.  I made my plea as we gathered for holidays and my grandpa, finally understanding, smiled for at least a few.  By the time we were married, my grandmother barely knew who I was.  I never got a picture of us together with her in my wedding gown (something I will regret forever), but rushed home after our honeymoon to take one in their yard.  Her hair was ruffled, her makeup missing, and her clothes mismatched.  She would've died if she knew what she had looked like-  to me it is one of my most cherished pictures.  She is real and that picture gives me a look in to what I hope will one day be our future-  standing with our grandchildren after they're married. 



With my grandparents celebrating our first week of marriage. 

So now, I beg you, take pictures.  Lots of them. And then... BE IN THEM!  You may not like the way you look, the awkward face you've made, or the lack of perfect hair and make-up.  But, the person taking it loves you the way you are.  And one day, they will be all that's left.  Have them taken by friends, family, and finally- professionally!  One day, you will be happy you did!

 



Flying High

My husband is sweeter than honey - truly.  Each day my life with him is a blessing.  Most girls grow up imagining a life in which they marry their prince charming, few are so lucky.  Of those few, even fewer continue to find themselves being “swept off their feet”.   Since 2008, he’s done just that.  Recently, he literally swept me off my feet and had me “floating” on air.

  

Since arriving in southern California, I’ve made more than one comment on the hot air balloons I see taking off and how wonderful it would be to see both the coast and mountains from the sky at sunset.  We’d chat about it for a minute or two, but I never gave it another thought.  To me, it was like saying I wanted to visit Maine or own an Audi convertible.  Something I would like to do, but never expect to do.  My husband, always wanting to share new experiences with me, tucked my comments away.

Slightly excited about taking off!

Earlier this fall, he surprised me with an afternoon ride up the coast.  We arrived at a small store where I quickly learned we would be taking off after a champagne toast for a tour over the horse farms and orchards of SoCal.  It was an experience of a lifetime; one that will never be forgotten.

As we drifted over southern California’s coastline, I thought about how lucky I was to have him.  I looked at our life and thought… some people really do live happily ever after. 

I've got a bucket, but no list...

Bucket lists are popping up everywhere these days. They're hanging on refrigerators, stuffed in purses, and checked off on blogs. It seems as though everyone has one and if they don't, they've at least considered it. But why?

I started thinking about bucket lists, what they mean and the value they hold, and I couldn't help but wonder if we're so consumed in the ending that we forget to live. Perhaps that's why the bucket list fascinates so many people; knowing the end will eventually come, you prepare by making expansive lists of things you'd like to do, places you'd like to see.

Perhaps it's just me, but lists make me cringe. (Maybe because I'm thinking of the one hanging on my fridge at the moment, detailing everything I must do before this house can be placed on the market.) They're like this evil force, staring me in the face, begging to be marked off and completed. When I think about my dying days, the last thing I'd want to think of is my incomplete list or the far-fetched, lofty ideas I never had a chance to chase. (That trip to Greece, probably never happening.)

So, instead of a bucket list, I'm contemplating just a bucket (and a few sticky notes). As I complete various tasks, visit different places, and enjoy new experiences, I could drop a sticky note in the bucket. At the end, at best, it would be full of things I probably never imagined doing (fixing my leaking toilet on my own -YES!). I could continue to live and as unexpected opportunities take place, log them, and then drop them in the bucket. There's no limitations and no scary list daring me to complete it.

Yes, I think I'll take that bucket... and that sticky note. I just made homemade key lime pie ice cream. Who saw that coming?

He never asked to move mountains...

          The leaves have turned brilliant shades of orange and yellow, reminding us that fall is here.  The darkness comes earlier and mornings are filled with crisp air.  Summer is gone.  The town, painted orange each weekend, is alive again with fans cheering for their local college- UT.  Soon the first snowflakes will drift to the ground, fires will be burned, and families will gather for the holidays.  Life in Knoxville seems as it always has, months steadily passing.

          But for one family, they stand still as the world outside whirls around them, seasons blurring, and time passing too quickly for them to keep up.  For them, the world stopped in August, the day they heard the words no parents ever want to hear.  Their son, Patrick, was diagnosed with Rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare form of cancer.  It was a moment in time, but one that will never be forgotten; a reminder that our lives are not our own. 

Psalm 34:18 - The Lord is near to the brokenhearted, And saves those who are crushed in spirit.

          Seventeen.  That’s the age in which my cousin was diagnosed with cancer.  A senior in high school, his concerns were no longer about what he would do after the year was over, entertaining thoughts of prom, or avoiding the cops at the Friday night parties after the football games, but instead centered on treatments and blood counts.  His life had changed, but Patrick remained the same.  

“Every day another child, another family, another community is affected by cancer.”

-Anonymous

 

          In the south, God is the biggest part of our life.  So, it didn’t surprise me to see a prayer group forming shortly after his diagnosis.  Planned for an afternoon in the local park, an invitation was sent to prayer warriors across his town.  Still under the weather, Patrick was unable to attend.  I waited impatiently by my computer, refreshing his Facebook page, hoping to catch a glimpse of those coming together to pray for him.  What surprised me was the volume of people as pictures began posting.  His sister, Jessica, wrote of the people who didn’t even know him in attendance and the prayers that were being offered.  Prayers that in time, would make a positive difference throughout his journey. 

“The most wasted of all days is one without laughter.”

-e.e. Cummings

 

          Since August, his sister and mother have both been keeping Facebook pages- highlighting improvements and asking for prayers when needed.  I’ve enjoyed reading comments from family and friends and those I’ve never met and probably never will.  I especially enjoyed this post by his mom:

 

Today has been a better day, Praise God! He had a waffle, another grilled cheese, and then ate 2 pcs of thin crust cheese pizza. Teenagers!

I laughed until I cried when I saw this message and then later a picture of him with a fake mustache.  My husband, unsure of what to say or do, just put his arm around me.  It was the first time since I had heard the news that I had considered that he was a teenager.  I had made comments before, “look at the people you’re bringing to God” and “even my atheist friend said she prayed last night”, but suddenly those comments seemed small and insignificant.  Yes, in the south we are about God, but we are also about people.  And his mother’s comment about teenagers, reminded me that though God is moving mountains through Patrick, the only thing he wants, is to be rid of cancer; to be a teenager. 

          And so, Patrick fights not just the cancer, but the everyday battles of being a teenager.  He argues with his parents, steals kisses from his girlfriend, and finds time to be goofy.  He still dreams as big as he ever has, flirts with the nurses, and makes plans for the future.  He eats greasy pizza, shoots guns with the guys, and drives his car fast.  He doesn’t complain, though he has reason to, but instead remains his sweet, southern self. 

Everyone has their inspiration, mine just fights cancer.

          So, Patrick, I write this for you.  Thank you for reminding me that a dirty house isn’t the end of the world, though I almost always tend to think so; for kick-starting my mornings, as my work is more personal because of you; for sharing your stories however hard they may be, inspiring me to be more; and for just being you, reminding me that in this world that’s all we ever need to be.  I pray for your health, your hope, and your faith.  But mostly, I just pray for you.  We love you!

Patrick's High School shows their support.

Frozen Yogurt and a Good Laugh

 

By golly, it’s hotter than hog’s breath in the middle of July and considering it is now October, I’m just not happy about it.  To make matters worse, we don’t have air conditioning.  Southern California has much to offer, but a nicely cooled home isn’t one of them- at least not if you’re within a bike ride or casual stroll to the shore.  Just to bring my core temperature down, I had to indulge in a trip to my favorite frozen yogurt shop for dinner.  (The thought of turning on an oven still makes me sweat.)  And because I knew my neighbors would also be in need of salvation, I dragged them with me.  We updated one another on the latest happenings in our lives, planned for the upcoming holidays, and vowed to do it more often.  We come from different walks of life, each of us having taken a different course, and somehow amidst all that God does in this world, He still found time to bring us together.  Last night we might have just taken on the heat (and won!), but it’s a start.  Who knows what we’ll take on next?

Conventional wisdom says...

"Conventional wisdom says that your 30th birthday is a milestone.  I don't believe this is true.  Every birthday is a milestone.  Each year brings growth, heartache, joy and wisdom.  Believe me, though, when I say the gathering of years go faster and faster.  Don't try to cram too much into each day, or even week.  Most things turn out to be pretty insignificant in the grand scheme of things.  Love your husband, love your family and friends, love your faith and love your country.  These things are what life is intended to be."

 

Love,

Mom

 

 

Last month I celebrated my 30th birthday.  Whew, just saying the number makes me squeal... with delight!  Yes, despite what most people might think, I am thrilled to have reached such a "milestone" in my life.  And, my mother is right.  The years have passed quickly, gaining momentum with each tear, laugh, moment, event, and holiday.  And though the years have started to blur, I hope to never forget these few simple truths I've learned about myself and life.



1- Anyone can make a difference in the life of another.   Be the positive difference.  One day it might just change the world.  Okay, maybe not the whole world, but their world.

2- God provides the things I need; I just have to ask.  In other words, it's okay to admit I can't do life alone.

3- My mom was right... about a lot of things, but mostly that the word "hate" is quite possibly the filthiest word in the English language.  And hearing children say it, makes me cringe.

4- I dance to my own music.  A father-daughter dance doesn't require outdated music, awkward swaying, or excessive tears.  And yes, "Sweet Child o' Mine" by Guns n Roses is absolutely acceptable at a wedding.  Thanks, Dad.

5- Change is inevitable, though not always welcomed.  Some changes are small, creeping up on us and happening before we even realize they've taken place.  Others hit us all at once making us question the foundation on which we stand.  Regardless of the size of impact, change is hard.  We accept what we can and adapt when we can't. 

6-  Know when to end... a fight, a project, an adventure, a friendship.  Actually, this even applies to relationships.  When the excitement is over and you feel exhaustion setting in, pull the plug and call it done!

7- Live fearlessly or at least try.   That means not simply existing from moment to moment, drifting wherever life takes me, but choosing my moments, driving my time, taking some risks, having more fun.

8- Take a leap of faith.  Shortly after we married, I found myself faced with the decision of leaving my career.  The thought of breaking the news to a class of 24 children nearly broke me, but I had made a choice based on faith (and the love of my extremely supportive husband).  Taking a leap requires doing what you think you can't and then never looking back once you jump.  Unless of course, you're taking a peek to see how far you've come.

9-  Glance back at life, but don't stare.  We often hear we should never look back and though I can appreciate one's concern with spending too much time in the past, I believe it's okay to take a glance from time to time. 

10- Be thankful.  “What if you gave someone a gift, and they neglected to thank you for it – would you be likely to give them another? Life is the same way. In order to attract more of the blessings that life has to offer, you must truly appreciate what you already have.” -Ralph Marston  Yup, that pretty much says it all. 

11- Understand that dreams change.  When I was little, I wanted to play professional baseball (for the Yankees).  Shortly after, I realized I lacked what it took to ever become a professional athlete, never mind the fact I was female (Shocker!).  Instead of dismissing my dream, I changed it. I vowed to one day visit Yankee Stadium.  Little did I know, God was already working on making my dreams a reality (no matter how much they had changed throughout the years) and in the summer of 2010, I not only visited, but I was invited to sit in the dugout.  Dreams do come true, just not always in their original forms.

 

12- Never lose your childlike innocence.  All those things that used to make you happy as a kid?  Well, guess what-  they still can!

 



13- Just be you.  Often times I find myself wondering why I don't walk in designer heels, have perfectly pressed blouses from high-end stores, or reach for my check book in my larger than life designer purse with a label the size of Texas which can be recognized a mile away.  But then, I remember that I tend to topple in heels, regardless of the designer, pressed blouses always hang awkwardly, and I can barely find my car keys in my small clutch leading me to believe I'd never find them in a Mary Poppins purse.  My hair's not perfect and my make-up is far from flawless, but I can wear the heck out of some worn-out jeans and cowboy boots!  And you know what?  Those gals with all that glam love me regardless.  My point is... in a world that works so hard to make you just like everyone else... JUST BE YOU!  No one else is more perfect for the job!