This has been an interesting few days. I've been mulling some thoughts around since Thursday or Friday night last week, but today, during a staff prayer time, it was broadened a bit, but not in the usual way. More like, um, broadened in my mind. Much of the same, but more. That doesn't make much sense, but there you have it.
So. Over the weekend I had conversations with several friends unexpectedly about deeper things. Things that we feel "weird" about, things we are struggling with, things that are making day-to-day life harder than we think it should be. It was a wide range of topics and ranged from our professional to personal lives, as well as our external to our internal lives. The outcome of each was that we would be committed to praying each other through this week. (Thank the good Lord for Christian friends.)
On to today: I don't go to the prayer time every week (though I often wish I could find the time), but some weeks I can tell I need extra time in prayer - not for myself, but for others, and for the fellowship of other believers. And since I'm still fairly new (less than a year, yet) at this job and in this city, these are people I see around (some more than others) but don't necessarily interact with much, and especially not outside of work projects. Today, we talked about navigating times of grief and knowing and trusting that God is still good. Because he is. He really is. It's too easy to lose track of that when you're hurting. Duh. (Yes, I'm typing that.)
Sometimes grief is due to loss of life (in one way or another) - death of a loved one, or even disaster in a city or country. There are SO MANY stories in the news these days about explosions, murders, sex trafficking, lack of clean water, starvation, orphaned children, and the list just keeps going on. But today what struck me was that sometimes the grief we experience is due to smaller things. Things like finances, or relationships, or loneliness, or an overly full task list.
When we see these things in light of the catastrophes around the world, we often push our "little" things away as they aren't really that big of a deal. I'm alive, I have clean water and plenty of food, I have not been sold to slavery of any kind, I have people to lean on, and I am not afraid for my life every moment of the day. But even when we try to put these things into perspective (which is important), we still come out hurting. And sometimes, we push it down well enough that later it erupts and is (or feels) even worse than before.
I don't have a solution, except this: to pray. Pray for one another. Pray honestly, pray often. If you don't know details, that's ok. Pray for the person. Pray for peace, for dependence on God. You can pray that for anyone - a Christian to remember to do so; an unbeliever to turn to him, maybe for the first time. If you do know more details, pray specifically! Boldly ask God for things. Don't forget to pray for yourself as well. It is easy to get hung up there, so always remember to pray for others, but it is important to lift yourself up as well. It builds relationship with him, which is how we really are able to get through. It also helps your relationships with those around you. When you pray for someone it changes your perspective about them. It doesn't fix issues magically, and it may not mean you're besties-for-life now. In fact, you may never talk to them again (see: forgiveness doesn't mean you have to reconcile the relationship to what it was previously). But it does make things better for both of you, even if one of you doesn't know it (yet?).
And... pray for those you don't agree with, for those you don't respect, for those you don't like. If they are in your sphere of influence or interaction, even a little bit, pray for them. Rather than just getting irritated or confused or frustrated, pray! It will take more than that, of course, and you may still have frustration or confusion; conversations will need to happen and solutions found - even if they aren't what everyone wants. But without prayer it becomes 'my way' vs. 'their way' and we pit ourselves against each other when, in the end, we're trying to reach the same goal. (This is often true even if we aren't all Christians - if we're working together, there's a reason, and it usually has some common purpose even if we understand that purpose differently.) So keep on praying!
One more thought and then I'll stop... each time I encounter grief of any kind, a change has occurred. Or many changes have. Even if it is good, and it isn't always, something has been lost. I have found that even when it was something I may have wanted to lose, the loss of it is still jarring to my internal system/thinking and an adjustment has to be made - I grieve what I knew. That idea of grief is fairly new in my working consciousness, and I struggle to not just dismiss it. "I wanted this, what's wrong with me," is often what I hear myself or others saying when good change has happened and they aren't doing well with it. Of course, this is true in unexpected change or changes you weren't entirely sure about as well.
Don't underestimate your struggle. Don't overestimate it either. It's tempting to go one way or the other. Don't diminish, but do keep perspective. Most importantly: do keep praying.
This post is much (MUCH) longer than I anticipated. The following verse is my current email signature on my personal emails. Every time I send an email I'm reminded. I have it posted by my desk at work as well. Romans 12:12NLT says, "Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying." It's the best advice there is. Our confident hope is in Jesus Christ. He has won, so we can rely on him, talk to him, and have patience and yes, even joy.
Showing posts with label friends. Show all posts
Showing posts with label friends. Show all posts
Wednesday, January 27, 2016
Monday, October 13, 2014
Who are we, really?
I've had a strange couple of weeks. I feel overwhelmed, stressed out. I know that some of it is from lack of sleep which comes from lack of exercise and... stress. Work has been busy, but not really much more than normal. I have found I have less time for God, less time for friends, and less motivation in both departments. I have only really stayed on top of work because of my ridiculous sense of responsibility, but that just makes everything all the more draining.
The problem is, I'm having a really hard time identifying the source of this unrest. It has caused no less than 6 mild migraines, which doesn't help either. I feel simultaneously terrified of making a change, and completely stuck in almost every way. It's very strange. I don't like it.
I pray constantly, but have not had a dedicated time of prayer due to the schedule I'm keeping. Except as I try to fall asleep at night (or go back to sleep in the middle of it), and then, I'm usually praying that I can stop thinking about everything for long enough to fall asleep and be rested enough to do tomorrow. God has been good, gracious and faithful, and I keep getting through each day, each night, each week - He truly is awesome and I don't deserve what He gives me. And still... I feel this way.
So yesterday, and again this morning, it has had me thinking about my capital 'P' Purpose, and about who I really am. What am I doing here on this earth? Why am I still here instead of in heaven celebrating and worshiping my great God? I know that everything I attempt to do, if done with the right heart attitude and work ethic is glorifying to Him and gives purpose to my life. I know that there are many people who value me not just for what I can do but for the relationships we share, or have shared. I am grateful for them and for the work God has allowed me to be part of, but now, I am feeling like a change is in order... I just don't know what that means.
I also realized (today) that I seem to have 'holed up' internally, so to speak. I am a fairly emotional person. Most of you already know that. I'm not good at hiding how I feel, and even if I manage it, it does not last for very long. I get teary at movies, I cry reading books, and at the thought of people I care about moving away I sob. I am still tearing up at books, but that's it, and has become rare. What's wrong with me? Who have I become? I'm tempted to watch the saddest movie ever just to see if it upsets me, but then, part of me doesn't want to do that... we'll see what the week holds. The potential of a couple of friends moving away saddens me, but emotionally I feel like "oh well, I'll miss them, but it's whatever." WHAT?? Maybe once/if they actually go, I'll find the emotion that is lacking, but for someone who can't usually keep it hidden, I'm shocked. Not to say i burst into tears during the day all the time, but often it'll come out on my pillow, and that's not happening either. I just feel sort of lethargic and like I'm going through the motions more than anything else. Maybe I'm having too many emotions, so they're stuck and they just won't come out.
So, if you're the praying type, please be praying for me. Pray that God would show me His clear direction, His clear guidance for my life, and in the mean time, that I don't get discouraged taking step after step on faith. I trust Him, I do, and yet, I wish He would give me a break and shed a little more light on the path ahead. And if you see me, please encourage me - but please, don't patronize me. I do that enough to myself.
NOTE: I also realize I should say: I completely recognize that there are people struggling with much worse in the world - even people in my life - and I do not discount that fact. I think you can see in what I've written above that I fully know that God has and is taking care of me. Many things are good and well for me. But this feeling of ... whatever it is is beginning to feel like it will never go away, and that's not good, which I also recognize. So, I ask for prayer, I write to get it out, and I trust that God will, as He always does, follow through with me - because I am not forsaken. I am special, I am loved, and I am His. And He protects and guides His own. I just wish it was a little more clearly and quickly. So, for me, right now, this is my struggle. I continue to pray for those others to help keep my perspective, and trust that He will lead me out when He sees fit.
The problem is, I'm having a really hard time identifying the source of this unrest. It has caused no less than 6 mild migraines, which doesn't help either. I feel simultaneously terrified of making a change, and completely stuck in almost every way. It's very strange. I don't like it.
I pray constantly, but have not had a dedicated time of prayer due to the schedule I'm keeping. Except as I try to fall asleep at night (or go back to sleep in the middle of it), and then, I'm usually praying that I can stop thinking about everything for long enough to fall asleep and be rested enough to do tomorrow. God has been good, gracious and faithful, and I keep getting through each day, each night, each week - He truly is awesome and I don't deserve what He gives me. And still... I feel this way.
So yesterday, and again this morning, it has had me thinking about my capital 'P' Purpose, and about who I really am. What am I doing here on this earth? Why am I still here instead of in heaven celebrating and worshiping my great God? I know that everything I attempt to do, if done with the right heart attitude and work ethic is glorifying to Him and gives purpose to my life. I know that there are many people who value me not just for what I can do but for the relationships we share, or have shared. I am grateful for them and for the work God has allowed me to be part of, but now, I am feeling like a change is in order... I just don't know what that means.
I also realized (today) that I seem to have 'holed up' internally, so to speak. I am a fairly emotional person. Most of you already know that. I'm not good at hiding how I feel, and even if I manage it, it does not last for very long. I get teary at movies, I cry reading books, and at the thought of people I care about moving away I sob. I am still tearing up at books, but that's it, and has become rare. What's wrong with me? Who have I become? I'm tempted to watch the saddest movie ever just to see if it upsets me, but then, part of me doesn't want to do that... we'll see what the week holds. The potential of a couple of friends moving away saddens me, but emotionally I feel like "oh well, I'll miss them, but it's whatever." WHAT?? Maybe once/if they actually go, I'll find the emotion that is lacking, but for someone who can't usually keep it hidden, I'm shocked. Not to say i burst into tears during the day all the time, but often it'll come out on my pillow, and that's not happening either. I just feel sort of lethargic and like I'm going through the motions more than anything else. Maybe I'm having too many emotions, so they're stuck and they just won't come out.
So, if you're the praying type, please be praying for me. Pray that God would show me His clear direction, His clear guidance for my life, and in the mean time, that I don't get discouraged taking step after step on faith. I trust Him, I do, and yet, I wish He would give me a break and shed a little more light on the path ahead. And if you see me, please encourage me - but please, don't patronize me. I do that enough to myself.
NOTE: I also realize I should say: I completely recognize that there are people struggling with much worse in the world - even people in my life - and I do not discount that fact. I think you can see in what I've written above that I fully know that God has and is taking care of me. Many things are good and well for me. But this feeling of ... whatever it is is beginning to feel like it will never go away, and that's not good, which I also recognize. So, I ask for prayer, I write to get it out, and I trust that God will, as He always does, follow through with me - because I am not forsaken. I am special, I am loved, and I am His. And He protects and guides His own. I just wish it was a little more clearly and quickly. So, for me, right now, this is my struggle. I continue to pray for those others to help keep my perspective, and trust that He will lead me out when He sees fit.
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
on lethargy
ever have one of those days when you just cannot accomplish ... ANYTHING??
today was like that. yesterday was full of meetings, which sort of kills the day. then i went home to clean (yay for finally putting christmas away!) and followed that with some fun things (dye your hair, paint your nails, watch quirky british detective-meets-horticulture show) for myself; my reward for a crazy week last week.
today i planned to accomplish much. but after "settling in" at work took FAR more than the usual 20 minutes this morning, i kind of just putzed around until lunch, then rushed back for a meeting after which i ACOMPLISHED NOTHING. seriously, i know i did get some things done today, but i just felt so lethargic! i couldn't shake it either, so that was a little weird. usually i can shake it by taking a little walk, getting some fresh water, or chatting to a friend for a few minutes. today, no dice. i couldn't get focused. i couldn't even remember from one moment to the next what it was i was planning to do next!
yes, i know: tomorrow's another day! it will keep! it's ok to have days like this! we all do! but it certainly was a little disconcerting. not terrible, but i sure hope it doesn't continue into tomorrow or it will be a very very VERY long night - and that would not be good!
in a little bit, i'm off to small group to connect with friends and God's Word. here's hoping it resets both my energy and focus levels and makes tomorrow much more productive. ;)
today was like that. yesterday was full of meetings, which sort of kills the day. then i went home to clean (yay for finally putting christmas away!) and followed that with some fun things (dye your hair, paint your nails, watch quirky british detective-meets-horticulture show) for myself; my reward for a crazy week last week.
today i planned to accomplish much. but after "settling in" at work took FAR more than the usual 20 minutes this morning, i kind of just putzed around until lunch, then rushed back for a meeting after which i ACOMPLISHED NOTHING. seriously, i know i did get some things done today, but i just felt so lethargic! i couldn't shake it either, so that was a little weird. usually i can shake it by taking a little walk, getting some fresh water, or chatting to a friend for a few minutes. today, no dice. i couldn't get focused. i couldn't even remember from one moment to the next what it was i was planning to do next!
yes, i know: tomorrow's another day! it will keep! it's ok to have days like this! we all do! but it certainly was a little disconcerting. not terrible, but i sure hope it doesn't continue into tomorrow or it will be a very very VERY long night - and that would not be good!
in a little bit, i'm off to small group to connect with friends and God's Word. here's hoping it resets both my energy and focus levels and makes tomorrow much more productive. ;)
Monday, January 16, 2012
Doctor in the House
I'm obsessed with Doctor Who. Those who know me IRL are not surprised by this statement. Well, maybe you are - it goes in waves. I love the show, but lately, I've been missing it, so I've been compensating in other ways: watching older episodes/re-watching the Christmas episode, making DW crafts, and so on. (yes, crafts.)
I love that it helps me escape in an interesting, thought provoking way. I love that I can have fun conversations with friends (and strangers) face to face as well as over the internet about the joys of the Doctor's world, etc. I love that I can talk about it with a dear friend at work who geeks out over it as much as I do. I love that my dad, mom, youngest brother, and his girlfriend will all geek out over it with me, discuss the possibilities to come, and watch previous episodes together pointing out the things we hope the other didn't miss. Oh, and the quoting of all the good lines. We've had entire conversations that are mostly just quoting sections of one episode after another. good fun. ;)
Sometimes you just need that little escape into something that is fun, still interesting, but has nothing whatsoever to do with your normal life. I've also been hoping to catch up on "Classic Doctor" but am having trouble finding episodes at all, much less in order (which I'd prefer).
What get's you relaxed/geeked out?
I love that it helps me escape in an interesting, thought provoking way. I love that I can have fun conversations with friends (and strangers) face to face as well as over the internet about the joys of the Doctor's world, etc. I love that I can talk about it with a dear friend at work who geeks out over it as much as I do. I love that my dad, mom, youngest brother, and his girlfriend will all geek out over it with me, discuss the possibilities to come, and watch previous episodes together pointing out the things we hope the other didn't miss. Oh, and the quoting of all the good lines. We've had entire conversations that are mostly just quoting sections of one episode after another. good fun. ;)
Sometimes you just need that little escape into something that is fun, still interesting, but has nothing whatsoever to do with your normal life. I've also been hoping to catch up on "Classic Doctor" but am having trouble finding episodes at all, much less in order (which I'd prefer).
What get's you relaxed/geeked out?
Friday, December 16, 2011
It's been 3 months...
quite literally.
how did that happen?
well, i did say i'd be on hiatus...
i think often of things i'd like to write, but don't have the time. or it seems too mundane to write an entire post about. i assume most bloggers feel the same way, but somehow find a way around it. or are just better writers than i am. or maybe most of them just have more interesting lives...
in any case, we're less than 1 1/2 weeks from Christmas, and i'm giddy with thoughts of family, friends, babies, pedicures, cookies, delicious food of all kinds, and general happiness. oh, and time off work. i can't wait. my twin nephews are 3 1/2 months old, and they are adorable as ever (as is my niece) and i just wish i had (if not a time machine to be able to re-do periods of time and do EVERYTHING) at least a space machine that would allow me to travel the 2 hours in seconds so i could go visit more often. this would help with friendships as well.
maybe i should invent that.
yes. i'll get on it.
well, that's really all the time i can spare today - and it will probably be another (but hopefully not as) long span of time before i write again... if you have ideas of what i can write about/stories you'd like to hear, leave comments, let me know. :)
Until then - have a happy Christmas!
how did that happen?
well, i did say i'd be on hiatus...
i think often of things i'd like to write, but don't have the time. or it seems too mundane to write an entire post about. i assume most bloggers feel the same way, but somehow find a way around it. or are just better writers than i am. or maybe most of them just have more interesting lives...
in any case, we're less than 1 1/2 weeks from Christmas, and i'm giddy with thoughts of family, friends, babies, pedicures, cookies, delicious food of all kinds, and general happiness. oh, and time off work. i can't wait. my twin nephews are 3 1/2 months old, and they are adorable as ever (as is my niece) and i just wish i had (if not a time machine to be able to re-do periods of time and do EVERYTHING) at least a space machine that would allow me to travel the 2 hours in seconds so i could go visit more often. this would help with friendships as well.
maybe i should invent that.
yes. i'll get on it.
well, that's really all the time i can spare today - and it will probably be another (but hopefully not as) long span of time before i write again... if you have ideas of what i can write about/stories you'd like to hear, leave comments, let me know. :)
Until then - have a happy Christmas!
Thursday, January 20, 2011
It feels like friday
it's thursday, but for some reason it's felt like friday all day - perhaps because of the tumbleweeds rolling through the building...
tomorrow (the real friday) will feel even weirder, i guess... we'll see. hopefully the (extra) silence will make for a(n extra) productive day.
i've been busy today, though i feel unproductive. i'm getting more used to the changes i'm experiencing, and was helped immensely by my small group's discussion last night - which was phenomenal despite being extra small. God truly is good, and He is showing me little by little that He's the One carrying me as i navigate new waters in many areas of my life. i feel the strength behind me, His arms cradling me. while this isn't the best time in my life, it's becoming more and more apparent that it certainly isn't the worst either (which i already knew, but it's nice to have that fact enunciated).
plus as a bonus, my best friend had the best idea today, and is going to research making it a reality - and it will help us both gain a little perspective and a bit of much needed rest - and soon.
i can't wait.
tomorrow (the real friday) will feel even weirder, i guess... we'll see. hopefully the (extra) silence will make for a(n extra) productive day.
i've been busy today, though i feel unproductive. i'm getting more used to the changes i'm experiencing, and was helped immensely by my small group's discussion last night - which was phenomenal despite being extra small. God truly is good, and He is showing me little by little that He's the One carrying me as i navigate new waters in many areas of my life. i feel the strength behind me, His arms cradling me. while this isn't the best time in my life, it's becoming more and more apparent that it certainly isn't the worst either (which i already knew, but it's nice to have that fact enunciated).
plus as a bonus, my best friend had the best idea today, and is going to research making it a reality - and it will help us both gain a little perspective and a bit of much needed rest - and soon.
i can't wait.
Saturday, January 15, 2011
God is good
yesterday was another hard day, which i knew it would be, but ended up being so for more reasons.
i hate that.
but i went out with 2 wonderful friends last night for some good food and an amazing (true) love story while curled up on a couch with a gigantic, delicious, red velvet cupcake and homemade cream cheese frosting (the leftovers of which i will eat today).
still, this morning, i was thinking about the discouraging stuff from yesterday (it's hard to escape the blues).
but i had my life group meeting with my lovely ladies and we talked of forgiveness, where our focus is, and how we should truly be thinking about life and its circumstances.
after they left, i planned an evening with a friend (for tonight). i already have seen things that remind me of yesterday's difficulties, and i know i will have to deal with those again next week.
but God is good. He is in control. and He has given me a weekend filled with Himself and friends and laughter to help me keep going.
God is truly good.
i hate that.
but i went out with 2 wonderful friends last night for some good food and an amazing (true) love story while curled up on a couch with a gigantic, delicious, red velvet cupcake and homemade cream cheese frosting (the leftovers of which i will eat today).
still, this morning, i was thinking about the discouraging stuff from yesterday (it's hard to escape the blues).
but i had my life group meeting with my lovely ladies and we talked of forgiveness, where our focus is, and how we should truly be thinking about life and its circumstances.
after they left, i planned an evening with a friend (for tonight). i already have seen things that remind me of yesterday's difficulties, and i know i will have to deal with those again next week.
but God is good. He is in control. and He has given me a weekend filled with Himself and friends and laughter to help me keep going.
God is truly good.
Friday, December 24, 2010
"Whoops."
It's December 24th.
Which means I've missed 3 days for BEDID.
But you know, I'm ok with that. They've been good, full, yet restful days.
I baked a ton of cookies (yes, exaggeration...but we did bake a lot) with a good friend. Then I went to another friend's house to eat pizza, watch a movie, and talk into the wee hours of the night (we hadn't seen each other for far too long, especially considering that she lives relatively close). It was a day full of hugs, laughter, good conversation, and people & things that make me happy.
The next day I finished baking the cookies we hadn't gotten to, and made another batch of home made granola (yum). This was followed up with the end of cleaning, a Christmas movie or two, a couple viewings of the Nutcracker (different versions), wrapping presents, and packing to leave.
Yesterday was full of joy as well, starting with breakfast with a dear friend, and hours of talking, hanging, just generally loving on each other. Then I headed to my parents where I'll be with family until at least Monday, maybe Tuesday.
So, BEDID's gonna take a break (I wondered even at the beginning if this would happen). I've done pretty well, and we'll see what happens, but no expectations until next week, ok? ;)
Yes, it's December 24th.
Christmas Eve.
I get to see more family tonight, and Christmas day is tomorrow!
I love Christmas for so many reasons, but mainly because of the reason that it's a joyful time (Jesus). He really is the Reason for the season, and it's so much bigger than this day! I also love that all my family celebrates for this reason too.
Which means I've missed 3 days for BEDID.
But you know, I'm ok with that. They've been good, full, yet restful days.
I baked a ton of cookies (yes, exaggeration...but we did bake a lot) with a good friend. Then I went to another friend's house to eat pizza, watch a movie, and talk into the wee hours of the night (we hadn't seen each other for far too long, especially considering that she lives relatively close). It was a day full of hugs, laughter, good conversation, and people & things that make me happy.
The next day I finished baking the cookies we hadn't gotten to, and made another batch of home made granola (yum). This was followed up with the end of cleaning, a Christmas movie or two, a couple viewings of the Nutcracker (different versions), wrapping presents, and packing to leave.
Yesterday was full of joy as well, starting with breakfast with a dear friend, and hours of talking, hanging, just generally loving on each other. Then I headed to my parents where I'll be with family until at least Monday, maybe Tuesday.
So, BEDID's gonna take a break (I wondered even at the beginning if this would happen). I've done pretty well, and we'll see what happens, but no expectations until next week, ok? ;)
Yes, it's December 24th.
Christmas Eve.
I get to see more family tonight, and Christmas day is tomorrow!
I love Christmas for so many reasons, but mainly because of the reason that it's a joyful time (Jesus). He really is the Reason for the season, and it's so much bigger than this day! I also love that all my family celebrates for this reason too.
Monday, December 20, 2010
Girl's Night In!
Tonight my dear friend had dinner prepared for several of us friends at her house. We had a WONDERFUL time of laughter, good food, too many cookies, too much cake, joy, hugs, games, good conversation...the list goes on.
I've just noticed, I'm writing as if it's still Sunday night, but realize that it's become Monday morning (I just got home about 10/15 minutes ago)!
Good friends are good for me. They keep me grounded, lift me up, and encourage me. They love me for who I am now, and encourage me in my walk with our amazing God.
What a fabulous way to end a busy season & start a vacation!
I've just noticed, I'm writing as if it's still Sunday night, but realize that it's become Monday morning (I just got home about 10/15 minutes ago)!
Good friends are good for me. They keep me grounded, lift me up, and encourage me. They love me for who I am now, and encourage me in my walk with our amazing God.
What a fabulous way to end a busy season & start a vacation!
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Snow Songs
it's snowing.
powdery, fluffy, beautiful.
i got to sing alot already this week, and there's more coming.
including in my car and office tomorrow.
Christmas music of many varieties and for many reasons.
and, tomorrow's my last day of work before a long vacation.
full of family and friends.
fabulous.
happiness.
powdery, fluffy, beautiful.
i got to sing alot already this week, and there's more coming.
including in my car and office tomorrow.
Christmas music of many varieties and for many reasons.
and, tomorrow's my last day of work before a long vacation.
full of family and friends.
fabulous.
happiness.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
tonight, a summary
rehearsal for this weekends' services, conversations with friends while driving a short-ish drive, small group composed of Christmas goodies & the reading of Christmas stories (kids picture books, to be exact), laughter, friends, farkle, conversation with my dad
win.
win.
Monday, December 13, 2010
Old Movies of Joy
(ok, so I wrote this post and forgot to post it last night... so technically it's from December 12th, but hey, we knew I'd miss ONE, right?? ;) Moving on...)
tonight marked another wonderful evening at a friend's house (well, actually the house of her and her husband) watching yet another wonderf- well, another old movie, anyway.
Christmas in Connecticut - it was wonderful in that it brought together friends, made us laugh (1945 was apparently an interesting year...and full of inuendo...) at the characters, the story (how many times, when someone walked onto screen, we all went "uh-oh" in the most melodramatic way, i don't know. i should have counted), and the funny lines. don't worry, everything was "hunky-dunky" by the end of the night. ;)
oh, and it was topped off by many sweets - kettle corn, home-made Christmas cookies, home-made peanut brittle, chips & salsa... the list goes on.
perfect end for a crazy week, to be surrounded by friends. even if i did have to drive home in the freezing cold and wind. ;)
tonight marked another wonderful evening at a friend's house (well, actually the house of her and her husband) watching yet another wonderf- well, another old movie, anyway.
Christmas in Connecticut - it was wonderful in that it brought together friends, made us laugh (1945 was apparently an interesting year...and full of inuendo...) at the characters, the story (how many times, when someone walked onto screen, we all went "uh-oh" in the most melodramatic way, i don't know. i should have counted), and the funny lines. don't worry, everything was "hunky-dunky" by the end of the night. ;)
oh, and it was topped off by many sweets - kettle corn, home-made Christmas cookies, home-made peanut brittle, chips & salsa... the list goes on.
perfect end for a crazy week, to be surrounded by friends. even if i did have to drive home in the freezing cold and wind. ;)
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Parties
I have another party to go to today. And I told them I'd help with something, so I'm sort of obligated to go... and I know I'll have a blast once I'm there - good friends, old & new, good food, games, songs (Christmas carols - so classic, so fun), etc.
But right now I just wish I could put on my pj's, hop under a heavy warm blanket and read Mansfield Park and Harry Potter the rest of the day. Perhaps with a cup of hot chocolate.
Well, relationships are important, and promises are made to be kept, not broken. Bring on the fun! ;)
But right now I just wish I could put on my pj's, hop under a heavy warm blanket and read Mansfield Park and Harry Potter the rest of the day. Perhaps with a cup of hot chocolate.
Well, relationships are important, and promises are made to be kept, not broken. Bring on the fun! ;)
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Chicago in Winter
Dec. 5th time edit: This was posted last night, barely, as you can see from the time stamp, but it didn't go through! Force published it - Goal of BEDID, not lost. ;)
With the snow that fell last night, and the lights in the city, I don't think it can be denied that Chicago is beautiful in the winter. And yes, I failed to take my camera out of my purse, so I have no pictures to prove it.
I was downtown tonight with friends at the Aqua building (gorgeous, I'll point it out for you sometime) to celebrate a good friend's 30th birthday. A few of us met up part way into the evening. The rest had gone to Christkindlmarkt in Daley Plaza, then journeyed to the Aqua building (where the birthday girl works) for homemade pizzas, appetizers, salad, wine, and soda. Mmm. It was rounded out by chocolate fondue for dessert, plus 2 birthday cakes (both delicious, so I hear, though I only had room for one tiny piece). Then we moved to the media room (think small theater) to watch Elf. Of course, the cakes, fondue, sodas, water, wine, and popcorn were available for consumption.
It was a lovely, fabulous evening, the ride there and back was filled with snowy land/cityscapes and Christmas lights on both residences and businesses alike.
Thanks to my friend for having a birthday, and for giving us a place to celebrate it!
With the snow that fell last night, and the lights in the city, I don't think it can be denied that Chicago is beautiful in the winter. And yes, I failed to take my camera out of my purse, so I have no pictures to prove it.
I was downtown tonight with friends at the Aqua building (gorgeous, I'll point it out for you sometime) to celebrate a good friend's 30th birthday. A few of us met up part way into the evening. The rest had gone to Christkindlmarkt in Daley Plaza, then journeyed to the Aqua building (where the birthday girl works) for homemade pizzas, appetizers, salad, wine, and soda. Mmm. It was rounded out by chocolate fondue for dessert, plus 2 birthday cakes (both delicious, so I hear, though I only had room for one tiny piece). Then we moved to the media room (think small theater) to watch Elf. Of course, the cakes, fondue, sodas, water, wine, and popcorn were available for consumption.
It was a lovely, fabulous evening, the ride there and back was filled with snowy land/cityscapes and Christmas lights on both residences and businesses alike.
Thanks to my friend for having a birthday, and for giving us a place to celebrate it!
Friday, December 3, 2010
Friends, Christmas, & Movies
Last night a friend agreed to come over when I spontaneously asked her after she spontaneously called me from Walmart.
Then I found Santa Claus is Comin' to Town on ABC. (One of my favorite Christmas movies ever, even if it is "for kids").
She arrived in the middle of it, we finished it out, then popped in a chick flick filled with Amy Adams, and Michael Buble songs.
After she left, I sat in my lovely apartment, enjoying the Christmas decorations I have, reading my book, catching up on some YouTube subs.
All in all, a good way to (almost) end a week that has been trying in many ways. I don't doubt that there will be more trials to come, but the little things like these are what keep you going and get you through. All praise to Him Who knows what He's doing!
Then I found Santa Claus is Comin' to Town on ABC. (One of my favorite Christmas movies ever, even if it is "for kids").
She arrived in the middle of it, we finished it out, then popped in a chick flick filled with Amy Adams, and Michael Buble songs.
After she left, I sat in my lovely apartment, enjoying the Christmas decorations I have, reading my book, catching up on some YouTube subs.
All in all, a good way to (almost) end a week that has been trying in many ways. I don't doubt that there will be more trials to come, but the little things like these are what keep you going and get you through. All praise to Him Who knows what He's doing!
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
September is the new August
My dear friend has this...well, it's not a saying, it's more a fact that most people in her life know. August is busy, crazy busy, and just plain crazy. The two of us talk to each other several times during the week - sometimes more than once per day - but in August, you can see the proverbial tumbleweeds rolling across the dusty, western type streets. Communication is at the lowest possible, all that is heard are the necessary cries for help and extra prayer to get through the day.
I realized today that my September is similar to her August. However, mine is not just one month. It is stretched to include the last two weeks of August. I just want summer to be over - isn't that awful?? (It is still too hot, so even though some people are starting to be sad that it's fall, it still feels like summer to me - when it's 93 degrees, I just can't call it fall, sorry.) I am so busy, it's crazy. It all needs to be done, it's not worthless (for the most part), but it's crazy busy. And, of course, there literally isn't enough time in a day. Some days I actually contemplate grabbing the blanket from the back of my chair, and the sweater too, and curling up on a pew in the sanctuary for awhile before I have to get back to work. I have actually been asked (several times over the past few years, and by more than one person) where my room is, where my bed is, if I live there (in jest, of course, but seriously? this has to be an issue...) It's shocking that I've had a few posts now in the last couple weeks, but of course, I've not been sleeping well...
So, there are only 2 things keeping September in a positive light:
1. my birthday
2. my niece's birthday
That, and, of course, the fact that God is truly in control.
Even (and especially) when it's crazy.
Bring it on.
I realized today that my September is similar to her August. However, mine is not just one month. It is stretched to include the last two weeks of August. I just want summer to be over - isn't that awful?? (It is still too hot, so even though some people are starting to be sad that it's fall, it still feels like summer to me - when it's 93 degrees, I just can't call it fall, sorry.) I am so busy, it's crazy. It all needs to be done, it's not worthless (for the most part), but it's crazy busy. And, of course, there literally isn't enough time in a day. Some days I actually contemplate grabbing the blanket from the back of my chair, and the sweater too, and curling up on a pew in the sanctuary for awhile before I have to get back to work. I have actually been asked (several times over the past few years, and by more than one person) where my room is, where my bed is, if I live there (in jest, of course, but seriously? this has to be an issue...) It's shocking that I've had a few posts now in the last couple weeks, but of course, I've not been sleeping well...
So, there are only 2 things keeping September in a positive light:
1. my birthday
2. my niece's birthday
That, and, of course, the fact that God is truly in control.
Even (and especially) when it's crazy.
Bring it on.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Musings on my Strange Soft Spot
*before you get any wrong ideas, read thoroughly. please.*
**it may get long...you have been forewarned.**
(ok, wow, I could write a book, apparently. plan to take breaks unless you have 10-12 minutes to spare.)
I have always had a heart that goes out to those kids (well, people) with special needs (especially kids; but when we face it, those kids grow up, and they are some of the sweetest people I've ever met as adults) or who have a disability of some kind.
I have had very little interaction with these folks. Because of that, I am (a bit?) nervous around them. It has nothing to do with them, though. I think (when I try to examine the inner workings of my mind) that it's because I'm afraid I'll hurt them or offend them, which I want desperately not to do.
When I was in college, a friend babysat regularly for a family whose youngest (of 3) had Down Syndrome. She was the most adorable, precious, sweet little girl I'd ever seen/heard stories about. I couldn't get her off my mind.
I worked in the bookstore on campus, and one week that year, we had a clearance sale - and staff got first pick. I randomly found a book of pictures - pencil drawings, portraits of these beautiful people - many of whom had disabilities of some kind, several with Down Syndrome. I read the intros and poured over the pictures for hours that weekend. Literally. Their faces are an open book. No hidden agenda, it's all right there. Rarely do you see such intense interest in anything once a person is above the age of ... well, 3 or 4. Rarely do you see such pure joy - especially over the simplest (and yet most amazing) things. I love that book. It's on a shelf in my home, and I stumble on it from time to time and pour over it all over again.
Yesterday night, when I was exhausted, but unable to sleep, I browsed through the Netflix Instant Viewing library of documentaries (I had talked to a friend about documentaries this past weekend, and thought I'd see if there were any I wanted to watch sometime). I found one about a guy with Down Syndrome, made by his childhood friend when they were older (and still good friends). I added it to my queue thinking I'd watch it "someday." Tonight, I jumped on Netflix (ah, happiness) to watch a little something before getting ready for bed. I hadn't thought about watching a documentary. I was thinking 'half-hour cartoon/show/something stupid' to unwind. But nothing hit me right. I kept going in circles, unable to make a decision...except I kept coming back to Up Syndrome. So I decided to start it (on Netflix, it's about an hour long). I watched about 15 minutes before I had to make a statement on Facebook about how wonderful it is, complete with the link to the trailer. I watched 35 minutes before I could make myself turn it off to attempt the other stuff I needed to do.
While watching it, I went in my room for a blanket/sweatshirt (windows open, breezy, I was cold), and I saw the shelf. That shelf. I pulled the book. I poured. The inspiration hit. I started writing.
I went back and forth.
Do I write this?
How do I do it so I don't offend anyone?
How do I make myself clear on what I do/feel/think, when I'm still not 100% sure that I've got it all figured out?
Isn't that the point of this whole thing? To wonder about stuff? To get out the feelings, the thoughts, the ideas?
YES. Yes, it is.
Most people know I have a HUGE soft spot for kids. I love them. They are hilarious, they are sweet, they are funny. They can be crazy, rude, disrespectful (I mostly blame the parents, but sin, of course, is a large factor too), naughty. But they are precious. They see so many things so simply. I can connect with a child so quickly, so deeply. When they hurt, it makes me hurt. I want to make everything better for them - not easy, better. I want each child to grow up strong, faithful, knowing that God is so much bigger than even they can imagine - and they can imagine much more than most of us.
Kids with disabilities like Down Syndrome (or any - physical, mental, emotional - for that matter) strike me the same way - and yet differently. Their lives are so much more complicated in some ways, so much more simple in others. The life experience they've been dealt is a direct result of sin in the world - what did they do to deserve it? No more than I did to be where I am.
Again, when I was in college, there was this great place where many developmentally disabled people live and work. They also work in several of the businesses in the area, including the local Panera, McDonalds, and on campus at the dining hall and the student center. One of my classes required time in a small group (3 college students, 3 friends from this place, and their 2 helpers) 2-3 times per week for the majority of the semester. I can only remember one of their names, but they were amazing. The sweet girl was so quiet, but if you got her going on something she liked, man, she could be occupied for hours - she'd even get up enough courage to tell you almost a sentence and a half about it. Daniel on the other hand, was by far the most outgoing. He wanted to make sure you knew as much as he did about everything around him. He told us about each day at work when we saw him. He told us about shooting pool and how to make sure the balls went in the holes. He loved to walk from the cafeteria to the rec center. The days he was not smiling were few and far between.
Ok, so back to my statement about being nervous around these special people. I have realized as I wrote this that I have had more interaction than I thought. There was also a handful of little kids at my church (nursery through early elementary) that I had (minimal to weekly) interaction with over the past few "ministry seasons" (years). One LOVED to tell jokes of any kind, especially the kind that make no sense whatsoever. One was a sweet infant who smiled more than any other baby I've seen - including the one I'm biased about. One was always jumping and running to his classroom to learn about Jesus. So awesome. Maybe part of my issue is that it's still a new person - someone I don't know yet. I have some shyness in that way (regardless of age or gender or anything else), and it can present itself in a stand-off-ish, I'm-too-good-for-you, or I-don't-know-how-to-handle-you kind of way sometimes (so I've been told). I think this is magnified by the reasons I listed earlier. I really don't want anyone I am interacting with to feel rejected, on the fringe, like an outcast, or that their being included because "I have to." I want them to feel loved. To feel wanted. To see God through me.
Pray for these people. They are often misunderstood. Pray for their families. They have been through much together. Pray for others around them, that interactions would be positive, not negative. Pray for the church, that it would not have a reputation of neglecting these important souls. Love these people. It's one of the best things you can do.
I recommend looking at the pictures from the book (see link above). I recommend watching at least part of the documentary if you can find it (link above, another one here.)
One last thought. I have contemplated through the years the idea of adoption. Since college, that thought has included the thought of a special needs child. Now, I know I am no where near ready to do any kind of adopting at this point. I don't know if that is even something God wants for me. It scares me to think I could be a parent to a child (naturally or otherwise) with such needs that I know so little about. But I would rather figure it out, leaning on God (with my future spouse; I don't really think I'd like to parent alone if I had the choice), and loving that child to the best of HIS ability. It is a ... thing ... in my heart. I don't have a good word. I don't know if it's a desire. All I know is, I love to love kids. I love to help them learn and grow. I love to see them making sense of things, figuring it out. I love seeing them singing praises to Jesus (I'm getting a lump in my throat just thinking about it). If God wants me to be the parent of a child who has extra hurdles to jump, I don't want to be closed to the idea. I want to embrace it, that sweet child, my family, and Him, and see what amazing things He can do.
All praises be to the King of kings, and the Lord of lords, He is wonderful!
Revelation 19
**it may get long...you have been forewarned.**
(ok, wow, I could write a book, apparently. plan to take breaks unless you have 10-12 minutes to spare.)
I have always had a heart that goes out to those kids (well, people) with special needs (especially kids; but when we face it, those kids grow up, and they are some of the sweetest people I've ever met as adults) or who have a disability of some kind.
I have had very little interaction with these folks. Because of that, I am (a bit?) nervous around them. It has nothing to do with them, though. I think (when I try to examine the inner workings of my mind) that it's because I'm afraid I'll hurt them or offend them, which I want desperately not to do.When I was in college, a friend babysat regularly for a family whose youngest (of 3) had Down Syndrome. She was the most adorable, precious, sweet little girl I'd ever seen/heard stories about. I couldn't get her off my mind.
I worked in the bookstore on campus, and one week that year, we had a clearance sale - and staff got first pick. I randomly found a book of pictures - pencil drawings, portraits of these beautiful people - many of whom had disabilities of some kind, several with Down Syndrome. I read the intros and poured over the pictures for hours that weekend. Literally. Their faces are an open book. No hidden agenda, it's all right there. Rarely do you see such intense interest in anything once a person is above the age of ... well, 3 or 4. Rarely do you see such pure joy - especially over the simplest (and yet most amazing) things. I love that book. It's on a shelf in my home, and I stumble on it from time to time and pour over it all over again.
Yesterday night, when I was exhausted, but unable to sleep, I browsed through the Netflix Instant Viewing library of documentaries (I had talked to a friend about documentaries this past weekend, and thought I'd see if there were any I wanted to watch sometime). I found one about a guy with Down Syndrome, made by his childhood friend when they were older (and still good friends). I added it to my queue thinking I'd watch it "someday." Tonight, I jumped on Netflix (ah, happiness) to watch a little something before getting ready for bed. I hadn't thought about watching a documentary. I was thinking 'half-hour cartoon/show/something stupid' to unwind. But nothing hit me right. I kept going in circles, unable to make a decision...except I kept coming back to Up Syndrome. So I decided to start it (on Netflix, it's about an hour long). I watched about 15 minutes before I had to make a statement on Facebook about how wonderful it is, complete with the link to the trailer. I watched 35 minutes before I could make myself turn it off to attempt the other stuff I needed to do.
While watching it, I went in my room for a blanket/sweatshirt (windows open, breezy, I was cold), and I saw the shelf. That shelf. I pulled the book. I poured. The inspiration hit. I started writing.I went back and forth.
Do I write this?
How do I do it so I don't offend anyone?
How do I make myself clear on what I do/feel/think, when I'm still not 100% sure that I've got it all figured out?
Isn't that the point of this whole thing? To wonder about stuff? To get out the feelings, the thoughts, the ideas?
YES. Yes, it is.
Most people know I have a HUGE soft spot for kids. I love them. They are hilarious, they are sweet, they are funny. They can be crazy, rude, disrespectful (I mostly blame the parents, but sin, of course, is a large factor too), naughty. But they are precious. They see so many things so simply. I can connect with a child so quickly, so deeply. When they hurt, it makes me hurt. I want to make everything better for them - not easy, better. I want each child to grow up strong, faithful, knowing that God is so much bigger than even they can imagine - and they can imagine much more than most of us.
Kids with disabilities like Down Syndrome (or any - physical, mental, emotional - for that matter) strike me the same way - and yet differently. Their lives are so much more complicated in some ways, so much more simple in others. The life experience they've been dealt is a direct result of sin in the world - what did they do to deserve it? No more than I did to be where I am.
Again, when I was in college, there was this great place where many developmentally disabled people live and work. They also work in several of the businesses in the area, including the local Panera, McDonalds, and on campus at the dining hall and the student center. One of my classes required time in a small group (3 college students, 3 friends from this place, and their 2 helpers) 2-3 times per week for the majority of the semester. I can only remember one of their names, but they were amazing. The sweet girl was so quiet, but if you got her going on something she liked, man, she could be occupied for hours - she'd even get up enough courage to tell you almost a sentence and a half about it. Daniel on the other hand, was by far the most outgoing. He wanted to make sure you knew as much as he did about everything around him. He told us about each day at work when we saw him. He told us about shooting pool and how to make sure the balls went in the holes. He loved to walk from the cafeteria to the rec center. The days he was not smiling were few and far between.
Ok, so back to my statement about being nervous around these special people. I have realized as I wrote this that I have had more interaction than I thought. There was also a handful of little kids at my church (nursery through early elementary) that I had (minimal to weekly) interaction with over the past few "ministry seasons" (years). One LOVED to tell jokes of any kind, especially the kind that make no sense whatsoever. One was a sweet infant who smiled more than any other baby I've seen - including the one I'm biased about. One was always jumping and running to his classroom to learn about Jesus. So awesome. Maybe part of my issue is that it's still a new person - someone I don't know yet. I have some shyness in that way (regardless of age or gender or anything else), and it can present itself in a stand-off-ish, I'm-too-good-for-you, or I-don't-know-how-to-handle-you kind of way sometimes (so I've been told). I think this is magnified by the reasons I listed earlier. I really don't want anyone I am interacting with to feel rejected, on the fringe, like an outcast, or that their being included because "I have to." I want them to feel loved. To feel wanted. To see God through me.
Pray for these people. They are often misunderstood. Pray for their families. They have been through much together. Pray for others around them, that interactions would be positive, not negative. Pray for the church, that it would not have a reputation of neglecting these important souls. Love these people. It's one of the best things you can do.
I recommend looking at the pictures from the book (see link above). I recommend watching at least part of the documentary if you can find it (link above, another one here.)
One last thought. I have contemplated through the years the idea of adoption. Since college, that thought has included the thought of a special needs child. Now, I know I am no where near ready to do any kind of adopting at this point. I don't know if that is even something God wants for me. It scares me to think I could be a parent to a child (naturally or otherwise) with such needs that I know so little about. But I would rather figure it out, leaning on God (with my future spouse; I don't really think I'd like to parent alone if I had the choice), and loving that child to the best of HIS ability. It is a ... thing ... in my heart. I don't have a good word. I don't know if it's a desire. All I know is, I love to love kids. I love to help them learn and grow. I love to see them making sense of things, figuring it out. I love seeing them singing praises to Jesus (I'm getting a lump in my throat just thinking about it). If God wants me to be the parent of a child who has extra hurdles to jump, I don't want to be closed to the idea. I want to embrace it, that sweet child, my family, and Him, and see what amazing things He can do.
All praises be to the King of kings, and the Lord of lords, He is wonderful!
Revelation 19
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Going into Monday...
As I prepare to head to bed, I thought I'd better get these -ahem- thoughts down before I forgot. Because I think I'll need to remember them a few times this week.
I serve a great and mighty God, Who has gone above and beyond anything I can even imagine - I can't even come close to actually comprehending what He's done for me - and how much He loves me. He has given me gifts (relationships with people, helping others, singing, playing the piano, listening, praying, I could sit and think of more, but let's move on) that I can use better than someone who hasn't got those gifts from Him. My responsibility is to do the very best that I can in this world, in the situations that present themselves on a weekly, daily, hourly (minutely?) basis. As long as that is my goal (glorifying Him by using the gifts He's graciously given me), there is no such thing as failure. No matter what does or does not get accomplished in this place, in the world, in my life, my job, my relationships with others, if (IF) I am truly doing my best FOR HIM, I cannot fail. He won't let me fall and smudge His Name. I do not (absolutely do not, no chance, no question about it) have enough strength or force of will to do that day in day out - sometimes even hour or minute in or out - but He does.
Therein lies my confidence. My ability to persevere. My ability to continually pray to the One Who is my Rock, my Strength, my Guide, my Protector, my Savior, my Peace. Because of these things (promises He's made to me - not that it'll be easy, but that He will never leave my side), I can be content in Him. It doesn't mean I have to like the situation(s), but I have to trust Him, have confidence in Him. And because I know that He's the One in charge, I can be truly fearless in the fact that I am His, He is mine (!), and He knows what's gonna happen even when I don't (which is almost always). Peace that transcends understanding. Contentment.
Glory to God, forever.
I serve a great and mighty God, Who has gone above and beyond anything I can even imagine - I can't even come close to actually comprehending what He's done for me - and how much He loves me. He has given me gifts (relationships with people, helping others, singing, playing the piano, listening, praying, I could sit and think of more, but let's move on) that I can use better than someone who hasn't got those gifts from Him. My responsibility is to do the very best that I can in this world, in the situations that present themselves on a weekly, daily, hourly (minutely?) basis. As long as that is my goal (glorifying Him by using the gifts He's graciously given me), there is no such thing as failure. No matter what does or does not get accomplished in this place, in the world, in my life, my job, my relationships with others, if (IF) I am truly doing my best FOR HIM, I cannot fail. He won't let me fall and smudge His Name. I do not (absolutely do not, no chance, no question about it) have enough strength or force of will to do that day in day out - sometimes even hour or minute in or out - but He does.
Therein lies my confidence. My ability to persevere. My ability to continually pray to the One Who is my Rock, my Strength, my Guide, my Protector, my Savior, my Peace. Because of these things (promises He's made to me - not that it'll be easy, but that He will never leave my side), I can be content in Him. It doesn't mean I have to like the situation(s), but I have to trust Him, have confidence in Him. And because I know that He's the One in charge, I can be truly fearless in the fact that I am His, He is mine (!), and He knows what's gonna happen even when I don't (which is almost always). Peace that transcends understanding. Contentment.
Glory to God, forever.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
It's a good time for a pick-me-up
And these things did the trick:
1. conversation with a wonderful friend
2. prayers of that friend, and another, both of whom love me
3. dinner and conversation with my dad and my youngest brother (on his first night back from the uk)
4. Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends (stupid, silly, wonderful
cartoon -thanks to Hulu)
5. The Smurfs (classic) (thanks to Hulu, again)
6. Little Dorrit, BBC version (always the best)
7. finishing Blue Like Jazz (hoping to anyway)
8. all of this with windows open (day 2), no air on all day
(freshness, joy)
9. the idea of a donut breakfast in the morning...
Hopefully, it'll last me through... Friday, when I get to see yet another friend, whom I've not seen since May!
Headache? Yes.
Surviving? Because God is good.
1. conversation with a wonderful friend
2. prayers of that friend, and another, both of whom love me
3. dinner and conversation with my dad and my youngest brother (on his first night back from the uk)
4. Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends (stupid, silly, wonderful
cartoon -thanks to Hulu)
5. The Smurfs (classic) (thanks to Hulu, again)
6. Little Dorrit, BBC version (always the best)
7. finishing Blue Like Jazz (hoping to anyway)
8. all of this with windows open (day 2), no air on all day
(freshness, joy)
9. the idea of a donut breakfast in the morning...
Hopefully, it'll last me through... Friday, when I get to see yet another friend, whom I've not seen since May!
Headache? Yes.
Surviving? Because God is good.
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