I cannot believe it has been two and a half years since my last blog post. Life is crazy for all of us. Some lives are crazier than others. Many days I think my life is the craziest. Living between 2 states, being a 24/7 caregiver of an adult child, working part time, wife, mother, gardener, chauffeur, nurse, housekeeper, book keeper, keeper of the schedule, volunteer, long haul driver, God's servant. Yup, that pretty much sums it up. Any free time I have you may catch me planning and training to walk Camino de Santiago or curled up listening to a novel. I would say reading a great novel but my eyesight isn't what it used to be. It is much easier to just listen to a great novel than muddle through the reading of it.
I bet you are thinking...walk Camino de Santiago? What the heck! Yes, it has been a long since dream of mine to walk this trail in Spain. Over 500 miles of walking for no other reason than to do it.
Oh, maybe there are a few reasons.
1. Alone, quiet time
2. Mind clearing
3. Can I walk 500 miles? I don't know, we"ll see.
4. Somewhere deep inside me is me. Some days I am not sure where me is anymore. I hope I find her on the trail.
5. I have strength but I know there is an inner strength that is there. I need it to come out.
6. No one knows what can be accomplished until put to the test.
7. Testing...1...2...3...
8. Beautiful scenery
9. Faith promoting. Faith promoting? you say. I say YES! FAITH PROMOTING!!!
I guess that wraps up my short list of reasons.
If you could do something, anything, what would it be? Maybe skydive or river raft down the Amazon. Maybe drive cross country or scuba dive. Maybe just have an uninterrupted nap or even an ice cream cone you could call your own. We all want, need and even crave something to savor. A memory to pull from the deepest part of our mind when things are tough, sad, mind boggling and that one thing is what we can hold onto that NO ONE can take away.
Friday, June 26, 2015
Tuesday, January 29, 2013
Day 4 of a much needed break
Cozumel...Just the name is intriguing.
Cozumel is an island in the Caribbean sea off the coast of Mexico. The scenery is breathe taking. The waters are an unimaginable color of blue. The water is so clear you can see forever into the depths of the ocean.
There is much to do here. Scuba diving, Snorkeling, Caving, Kite surfing and there are 2 Dolphinariums, one of which we visited today.
The place sits right in the ocean. There are several areas where the dolphins swim. They have trainers also and we did an encounter with 2 trainers. All 8 of us participated in this amazing adventure.
First, we climbed down into the ocean area where the dolphins were swimming. We lined up on this steel deck that was underwater. The trainers gave us instructions of the do's and don'ts while in the cove. The very first thing the dolphins did was swim very close to us so we could all feel its slippery skin. Next, by twos we swam out and a dolphin swam to us and we could hold it in the water. That was awesome. (BTW, I may say awesome 100 times in this post because everything was awesome).
Have you ever kissed a dolphin or had one kiss you? Well I know can say I have. What a sweet experience.
By twos we swam out further but not close to each other and one dolphin came up behind us and either pulled us while we held onto their dorsal fin or with our legs locked they pushed us with their noses on our feet so fast that we actually came up out of the water. Now that was AWESOME!
At one point one of the make dolphins swam into our area for a little nooky. We had to stay on the platform as they can get very aggressive and they swim by so fast while this is occurring they didn't want anyone to get hurt, That was crazy,
Near the end of our encounter one of our trainers had Christian and Amanda play a game with the Dolphins. She had these floating rings that she had them throw out and the dolphins hooked them on the noses to bring them back. Well, Christian's didn't do her job but Amanda's did and brought hers back to her. Hooked to Amanda's was a cup with a lid and the trainer ask Amanda to open the cup up and take out the contents. She struggled with it for a few minutes but it finally opened. She thought it was going to be a treat for the dolphin but instead it was a treat for her. Inside was an engagement ring. Christian proposed with us all there looking on. It was wonderful.
Trying to get this proposal all arranged was quite the feat. Little secret meetings with the purser and then meeting with our tour guide and handing over the ring to someone we didn't know. Meeting with security at the encounter so we could get them our movie camera to film the proposal. All things that caused Amanda strife and anxiety and wondering why Christian was disappearing several times. But in the end it was all worth it.
She said YES!!!
Upon arriving back to our state rooms the room steward had decorated their room with things we had brought with us. Hearts, balloons, streamers and confetti. Still on a high from the proposal this just added to it. With a happy engagement cake Nicole made arrangements to be brought to dinner to help us all celebrate, this couldn't have ended up any better. Welcome to the family Amanda.
We LOVE you.
Cozumel is an island in the Caribbean sea off the coast of Mexico. The scenery is breathe taking. The waters are an unimaginable color of blue. The water is so clear you can see forever into the depths of the ocean.
There is much to do here. Scuba diving, Snorkeling, Caving, Kite surfing and there are 2 Dolphinariums, one of which we visited today.
The place sits right in the ocean. There are several areas where the dolphins swim. They have trainers also and we did an encounter with 2 trainers. All 8 of us participated in this amazing adventure.
First, we climbed down into the ocean area where the dolphins were swimming. We lined up on this steel deck that was underwater. The trainers gave us instructions of the do's and don'ts while in the cove. The very first thing the dolphins did was swim very close to us so we could all feel its slippery skin. Next, by twos we swam out and a dolphin swam to us and we could hold it in the water. That was awesome. (BTW, I may say awesome 100 times in this post because everything was awesome).
Have you ever kissed a dolphin or had one kiss you? Well I know can say I have. What a sweet experience.
By twos we swam out further but not close to each other and one dolphin came up behind us and either pulled us while we held onto their dorsal fin or with our legs locked they pushed us with their noses on our feet so fast that we actually came up out of the water. Now that was AWESOME!
At one point one of the make dolphins swam into our area for a little nooky. We had to stay on the platform as they can get very aggressive and they swim by so fast while this is occurring they didn't want anyone to get hurt, That was crazy,
Near the end of our encounter one of our trainers had Christian and Amanda play a game with the Dolphins. She had these floating rings that she had them throw out and the dolphins hooked them on the noses to bring them back. Well, Christian's didn't do her job but Amanda's did and brought hers back to her. Hooked to Amanda's was a cup with a lid and the trainer ask Amanda to open the cup up and take out the contents. She struggled with it for a few minutes but it finally opened. She thought it was going to be a treat for the dolphin but instead it was a treat for her. Inside was an engagement ring. Christian proposed with us all there looking on. It was wonderful.
Trying to get this proposal all arranged was quite the feat. Little secret meetings with the purser and then meeting with our tour guide and handing over the ring to someone we didn't know. Meeting with security at the encounter so we could get them our movie camera to film the proposal. All things that caused Amanda strife and anxiety and wondering why Christian was disappearing several times. But in the end it was all worth it.
She said YES!!!
Upon arriving back to our state rooms the room steward had decorated their room with things we had brought with us. Hearts, balloons, streamers and confetti. Still on a high from the proposal this just added to it. With a happy engagement cake Nicole made arrangements to be brought to dinner to help us all celebrate, this couldn't have ended up any better. Welcome to the family Amanda.
We LOVE you.
Monday, January 28, 2013
Day 3 of a break much needed
Today is the day I have been waiting for for several years. John, McKensie and I are going to Chichen Itza!
Yeah, Yeah, Yeah. A few years ago John and I went to Tulum and loved it so much we wanted to see Chichen Itza also.
Christian, Amanda, Nicole, Sherry and Paul all went to a resort to lay on the beach, play beach games and water play also. I'm sure they will have fun but it cannot compare to Mayan Ruins.
WOW! Totally exceeded my expectations. The history of Mayans is fascinating to me. I am amazed at the buildings, agriculture, textiles and art. Our tour guide gave us a great initial run down of the area we were traveling into as well as the culture.
Now for a little history lesson....
Chichen Iza means: At the mouth of the well at Itza. It is one of the largest Maya cities. There are many styles of architecture which suggests the people who occupied this area came from many other areas. It is suggested that no one person was a ruler there but more like a council through elite ruling lineage although in recent years some have called into question this theory. It is not clear if the inhabitants left the area of their own accord or if they were conquered. Spain did come in the early 1500's. They did lay claim to much of the land but after a few years the Maya's revolted and ran them out. By the Late 1500's Spain had once again layed hold on the area and established a large working cattle ranch.
In the mid to late 1800's there were books written on this area and an influx of people from all over the world came to see for themselves this beautiful land. In the early 1900's the United States worked in tandom with the state of Yucatan to conduct archeological digs and fact finding.
El Castillo
At the North Platform of Chichen Itza is the Temple of Kukulkan (a Maya feathered serpent diety similar to the Aztec Quetzalcoatl, This step pyramid stands about 98 ft high and has 9 square terraces. The 4 faces of the pyramid have protruding stairways. At the bottom of the Northeastern staircase there are carved serpent heads. periodically Mesoamerican cultures superimposed other structures of already built ones. They did this with El Castillo. There is another Temple buried under this one. They found inside the temple chamber a Chac Mool statue and a throne in the shape of Jaguar, painted red and with spots made of inlaid jade.
On the Spring and Autumn equinoxes, in the late afternoon, the northwest corner of the pyramid casts a series of triangular shadows against the western balustrade on the north side that evokes the appearance of a serpent wriggling down the staircase. Some have suggested the effect was an intentional design by the Maya builders to represent the feathered-serpent god Kukulcan. Archaeologists have found no evidence to support such an assertion.(This picture is not my own. It depicts better then mine of the serpent like area coming down the pyramid.)
The Great Ball Court
On each side of the great ball court there are Temples. One Temple is in ruins. The other 3 are wonderful. The Temple of the Jaguar had been open to the public until 2006. Patrons could go into the throne room and see not only the throne but also the large mural that depicts a battle scene.
The very large area is where they played a game with a ball that weighed approx 5 lbs. They were only allowed to touch the ball with their shoulders, elbows, hips and knees. The object was to get the ball into the hoop that is hooked to the stone wall. There are players and a captain although the captain is the only person that can put the ball into the hoop. Once the ball is in the hoop that team wins. The winner captain is also beheaded by the looser captain. They felt as though this was the greatest reward because they could go to the great beyond where they would have greater glory.
There is so much more I could tell you of this area but it may take all day to read if I did. This area is rich in history and I hope that you one day will be able to see if first hand.
Yeah, Yeah, Yeah. A few years ago John and I went to Tulum and loved it so much we wanted to see Chichen Itza also.
Christian, Amanda, Nicole, Sherry and Paul all went to a resort to lay on the beach, play beach games and water play also. I'm sure they will have fun but it cannot compare to Mayan Ruins.
WOW! Totally exceeded my expectations. The history of Mayans is fascinating to me. I am amazed at the buildings, agriculture, textiles and art. Our tour guide gave us a great initial run down of the area we were traveling into as well as the culture.
Now for a little history lesson....
Chichen Iza means: At the mouth of the well at Itza. It is one of the largest Maya cities. There are many styles of architecture which suggests the people who occupied this area came from many other areas. It is suggested that no one person was a ruler there but more like a council through elite ruling lineage although in recent years some have called into question this theory. It is not clear if the inhabitants left the area of their own accord or if they were conquered. Spain did come in the early 1500's. They did lay claim to much of the land but after a few years the Maya's revolted and ran them out. By the Late 1500's Spain had once again layed hold on the area and established a large working cattle ranch.
In the mid to late 1800's there were books written on this area and an influx of people from all over the world came to see for themselves this beautiful land. In the early 1900's the United States worked in tandom with the state of Yucatan to conduct archeological digs and fact finding.
El Castillo
At the North Platform of Chichen Itza is the Temple of Kukulkan (a Maya feathered serpent diety similar to the Aztec Quetzalcoatl, This step pyramid stands about 98 ft high and has 9 square terraces. The 4 faces of the pyramid have protruding stairways. At the bottom of the Northeastern staircase there are carved serpent heads. periodically Mesoamerican cultures superimposed other structures of already built ones. They did this with El Castillo. There is another Temple buried under this one. They found inside the temple chamber a Chac Mool statue and a throne in the shape of Jaguar, painted red and with spots made of inlaid jade.
On the Spring and Autumn equinoxes, in the late afternoon, the northwest corner of the pyramid casts a series of triangular shadows against the western balustrade on the north side that evokes the appearance of a serpent wriggling down the staircase. Some have suggested the effect was an intentional design by the Maya builders to represent the feathered-serpent god Kukulcan. Archaeologists have found no evidence to support such an assertion.(This picture is not my own. It depicts better then mine of the serpent like area coming down the pyramid.)
The Great Ball Court
On each side of the great ball court there are Temples. One Temple is in ruins. The other 3 are wonderful. The Temple of the Jaguar had been open to the public until 2006. Patrons could go into the throne room and see not only the throne but also the large mural that depicts a battle scene.
The very large area is where they played a game with a ball that weighed approx 5 lbs. They were only allowed to touch the ball with their shoulders, elbows, hips and knees. The object was to get the ball into the hoop that is hooked to the stone wall. There are players and a captain although the captain is the only person that can put the ball into the hoop. Once the ball is in the hoop that team wins. The winner captain is also beheaded by the looser captain. They felt as though this was the greatest reward because they could go to the great beyond where they would have greater glory.
There is so much more I could tell you of this area but it may take all day to read if I did. This area is rich in history and I hope that you one day will be able to see if first hand.
Sunday, January 27, 2013
Day 2 of a much needed break
Dancing on the deck, much needed sunshine, and of course the lemon-aide with the obligatory umbrella.
There is nothing I don't like about cruising. Okay, maybe one thing....the day they end. Several years ago John and I went on our first cruise and we haven't looked back.
A day at sea is a day for lounging in the sunshine with nothing else to do but bask. John doesn't much care for basking. He finds other things to do like taking classes at the gym, going to the art auction, taking more classes and eating all the wonderful concoctions they come up with.
My idea of a day at sea is nothing. I want to lay in the sun, nap, dance on deck and listen to an audio book on my iPod. All of which I did.
Nicole and I did a fun thing but I cannot mention it yet. I don't want to spoil the surprise. More to come on that in a few days.
There is nothing I don't like about cruising. Okay, maybe one thing....the day they end. Several years ago John and I went on our first cruise and we haven't looked back.
A day at sea is a day for lounging in the sunshine with nothing else to do but bask. John doesn't much care for basking. He finds other things to do like taking classes at the gym, going to the art auction, taking more classes and eating all the wonderful concoctions they come up with.
My idea of a day at sea is nothing. I want to lay in the sun, nap, dance on deck and listen to an audio book on my iPod. All of which I did.
Nicole and I did a fun thing but I cannot mention it yet. I don't want to spoil the surprise. More to come on that in a few days.
Saturday, January 26, 2013
Much needed break
Yesterday Nicole's friend McKenzie flew into Wichita to spend a week in the sun with us. Nicole picked her up and the immediately went for some girl time....Tips and Toes. Mani / Pedi is a great way to kick of a fun vacation.
We love McKensie. She has been Nicole's friend for about 2 and a half years. McKensie was assigned to Nicole as her buddy at Special Needs Mutual. Even though she was only Nicole's buddy one year they have remained friends and periodically do things together.
We left after work last night to drive to New Orleans to meet up with Christian, Amanda and Amanda's parents, Sherry and Paul. We are all going on a cruise together. They actually flew in last Wednesday and enjoy Mardi Gras before hand and we are going to enjoy it after the cruise as well as THE SUPER BOWL!!!. Of course, John and I are happy about the Super Bowl this year as our favorite team is playing...49ers baby! They will play the Ravens. It will be a great match up. I hope we prevail.
The drive was seriously stupid. The first time Mapquest has let us down. We followed the directions exactly but instead of it taking us 8 hrs it took us 15 hrs and we were seriously frantic about whether or not we would miss the boat. Well, we didn't but we didn't have too much time to spare. When we return we will drive over to Dallas and head North. It can't be any longer and we can see some familiar terrain.
Let the fun begin!
We love McKensie. She has been Nicole's friend for about 2 and a half years. McKensie was assigned to Nicole as her buddy at Special Needs Mutual. Even though she was only Nicole's buddy one year they have remained friends and periodically do things together.
We left after work last night to drive to New Orleans to meet up with Christian, Amanda and Amanda's parents, Sherry and Paul. We are all going on a cruise together. They actually flew in last Wednesday and enjoy Mardi Gras before hand and we are going to enjoy it after the cruise as well as THE SUPER BOWL!!!. Of course, John and I are happy about the Super Bowl this year as our favorite team is playing...49ers baby! They will play the Ravens. It will be a great match up. I hope we prevail.
The drive was seriously stupid. The first time Mapquest has let us down. We followed the directions exactly but instead of it taking us 8 hrs it took us 15 hrs and we were seriously frantic about whether or not we would miss the boat. Well, we didn't but we didn't have too much time to spare. When we return we will drive over to Dallas and head North. It can't be any longer and we can see some familiar terrain.
Let the fun begin!
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
Our New Years Eve
I have not really kept up with how Nicole has been and her progress the past couple of years. I guess in light of last night this is as good a time as any.
While John and I were packing up to drive to KS, Nicole's leg looked more swollen and was more painful. I had taken her into the Burn Unit for a check on her leg a few weeks ago as it was very swollen, red, hot and painful. The nurse practitioner said all was well even though it looked like cellulitis to me. (No, I am not a Dr. but I am the mom and I have very good intuition.) John and I agreed I should take her to the U and have it looked at.
The ER Dr confirmed that it was cellulitis and immediately started her on IV antibiotics. Cellulitis can be a dangerous thing. I wanted to rant and scream about the nurse practitioner but I didn't although when they asked me why I hadn't brought her in to have it looked at I told them what happened with the nurse practitioner and I had felt at the time it was cellulitis but was dismissed. This Dr. was so nice. Listened to all I had to say and in the end said "Mothers know best". Yup. I whole heartedly agree!
Well, 3 IV bags of antibiotics as well as being sent home with oral antibiotics and hopefully this will get under control without too much more to do. She will need to be seen every few days to make sure we are on the up and not sliding back again.
While John and I were packing up to drive to KS, Nicole's leg looked more swollen and was more painful. I had taken her into the Burn Unit for a check on her leg a few weeks ago as it was very swollen, red, hot and painful. The nurse practitioner said all was well even though it looked like cellulitis to me. (No, I am not a Dr. but I am the mom and I have very good intuition.) John and I agreed I should take her to the U and have it looked at.
The ER Dr confirmed that it was cellulitis and immediately started her on IV antibiotics. Cellulitis can be a dangerous thing. I wanted to rant and scream about the nurse practitioner but I didn't although when they asked me why I hadn't brought her in to have it looked at I told them what happened with the nurse practitioner and I had felt at the time it was cellulitis but was dismissed. This Dr. was so nice. Listened to all I had to say and in the end said "Mothers know best". Yup. I whole heartedly agree!
Well, 3 IV bags of antibiotics as well as being sent home with oral antibiotics and hopefully this will get under control without too much more to do. She will need to be seen every few days to make sure we are on the up and not sliding back again.
Sunday, December 30, 2012
I am so lame!
I WANT to keep my blog up but it seems as though I can't seem to do it. I don't know what my problem is. I have made goals, let my self notes, set my alarm but to no avail it doesn't happen. I guess I will just make some blog posts now, try to do some catching up and hopefully be able to keep it going.
Monday, September 3, 2012
No Cell Phone Weekend!
Memorial Day Weekend! Just the thought of it makes me smile. I love everything about Memorial Day Weekend. First of all, it is a long weekend. The kind I especially like, with the holiday on Monday.,
Friday night, after the kids got off work, we packed our truck and headed out to Colorado to a cabin we rented for the weekend. The kids and I driving from UT and John driving from KS. Speedily we drove through the night so we could meet up with John as soon as possible. I couldn't wait to get him in my arms. With each passing month it is more difficult to be separated over the long, windy, endless road.
As luck would have it we arrived at the same place within minutes of each other. Ah, Heaven.
Our first stop was the Butterhorn Bakery in Frisco, CO. Great breakfast place with to die for blueberry croissants. They have skillets, pancakes and other delicious items but there is nothing like the croissants. (I wish I had a picture of them and of course the app that lets you smell them, too.)
Did I mention this is a NO CELL PHONE WEEKEND! That means no texting, calling, facebooking or playing games unless it directly involves all the other weekend participants. (We did take our phones to contact each other if we got separated, which did happen twice)
After unpacking our feet found us browsing in Breckenridge, CO. Oh how we love it there. Such a quaint ski town. We love the slow pace and little shops. Of course we had to go into the furrier. We always seem to find our way to a furrier shop. I love to try them on. All of them. All different styles, colors, lengths. No buying today, but, one day I WILL have a sheared Beaver car coat.
By not having cell phones to interact with it leaves plenty of time to cook great food with the ones you love. One of the meals we made was french dips. Not just any old sliced beef. Nope. One that has been cooked all day in the crock pot with fresh whole seasonings.
First I measure out the seasonings and make a rub out of it. Next I make a bed for my meat to lay on so it is not sitting directly on the bottom of the crock pot. I use celery and onions.
Next I rub the seasonings all over the meat and put it on the bed of veggies. I also add 1/2 cup of water at this point.
Friday night, after the kids got off work, we packed our truck and headed out to Colorado to a cabin we rented for the weekend. The kids and I driving from UT and John driving from KS. Speedily we drove through the night so we could meet up with John as soon as possible. I couldn't wait to get him in my arms. With each passing month it is more difficult to be separated over the long, windy, endless road.
As luck would have it we arrived at the same place within minutes of each other. Ah, Heaven.
Our first stop was the Butterhorn Bakery in Frisco, CO. Great breakfast place with to die for blueberry croissants. They have skillets, pancakes and other delicious items but there is nothing like the croissants. (I wish I had a picture of them and of course the app that lets you smell them, too.)
Did I mention this is a NO CELL PHONE WEEKEND! That means no texting, calling, facebooking or playing games unless it directly involves all the other weekend participants. (We did take our phones to contact each other if we got separated, which did happen twice)
After unpacking our feet found us browsing in Breckenridge, CO. Oh how we love it there. Such a quaint ski town. We love the slow pace and little shops. Of course we had to go into the furrier. We always seem to find our way to a furrier shop. I love to try them on. All of them. All different styles, colors, lengths. No buying today, but, one day I WILL have a sheared Beaver car coat.
By not having cell phones to interact with it leaves plenty of time to cook great food with the ones you love. One of the meals we made was french dips. Not just any old sliced beef. Nope. One that has been cooked all day in the crock pot with fresh whole seasonings.
First I measure out the seasonings and make a rub out of it. Next I make a bed for my meat to lay on so it is not sitting directly on the bottom of the crock pot. I use celery and onions.
Next I rub the seasonings all over the meat and put it on the bed of veggies. I also add 1/2 cup of water at this point.
Thursday, May 24, 2012
Today I was thinking, "A goal I had for this year was to keep my blog up and I haven't kept that goal." Well, today I am post an amazingly fun activity Nicole and I did today.
Chili Peppers!
You see....Our Carlston family reunion is next month. We are having it in one of the most scenic areas. S*N*O*W*B*I*R*D
I am so excited for this reunion because for one thing, John and I have not been able to attend one yet. Another reason...This will be the first time in about 5 years that all of John's siblings will be in the same place. With 3 siblings living out of the state of Utah and 4 siblings in Utah it has been hard to get the whole pack together at once.
One of the nights, Sarah and I are making a Mexican feast for the whole crew. Carne Asada, Cilatro Lime Rice, Black Beans, Pico, rounding it out with freshly made tortillas. Getting back to the Chili Peppers. Here they are.....
They are so cute! These are actually Tootsie Rolls dipped in chocolate.
How are they made you ask? Easy - Peasy
First you unwrap midget tootsie rolls. I used 4 per chili pepper.
Microwave them for about 15 secs to just warms them so they are easier to mold together. Shape them to look like a chili pepper and then stick a small pretzel stick in the top for stem (don't break it off yet). Lay them out on wax paper. When you have made as many as you need, melt a package of Wilton's red chocolate discs over simmering water, careful not to get any water into the chocolate or it will seize. Dip the tootsie rolls into the red chocolate from the bottom to near the top so it starts to look like a chili, like so....
When these are all dry, (which take about an hour), break the pretzel near to tootsie roll but long enough for a stem. Melt a package of Wilton's green chocolate disks just like you did the red. Dip the tops in the green to make the tops of the chili's.
These were fun to make and at a tasty treat.
You see....Our Carlston family reunion is next month. We are having it in one of the most scenic areas. S*N*O*W*B*I*R*D
I am so excited for this reunion because for one thing, John and I have not been able to attend one yet. Another reason...This will be the first time in about 5 years that all of John's siblings will be in the same place. With 3 siblings living out of the state of Utah and 4 siblings in Utah it has been hard to get the whole pack together at once.
One of the nights, Sarah and I are making a Mexican feast for the whole crew. Carne Asada, Cilatro Lime Rice, Black Beans, Pico, rounding it out with freshly made tortillas. Getting back to the Chili Peppers. Here they are.....
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Morocco
I love Morocco!
Granted, I haven't been there but I love everything thing I have read, seen in books or on the internet, the food I have eaten and the music I have heard. And OH! the smell of the spices. That, in itself is worth wanting to go there.
Morocco! Just saying the name invites intrigue.
Marrakesh! Another word of intrigue. Just the word lights me up.
Nestled at the foot of the snow capped Atlas mountains. Marrakesh beckons me.
The first place I want to hit when I get there is the souks. Djemaa el Fna. The square bustles with acrobats, story-tellers, water sellers, dancers and musicians. By night food stalls open in the square turning it into a huge busy open-air restaurant.
Sometimes I can smell what I think they will smell like. Spicy and musty, but not musty like mold musty more like intrigue musty. I can also smell animals nearby, food cooking and perfumes. At those times I close my eyes and can hear the venders hocking their wares, haggling with passerby's. I can see others sitting, drinking their tea (I hope that I am invited to sit and have mint tea with someone) and people watching like I would be doing. I would be in heaven weaving in and out of the alleys looking at the food and other items that are new to me but the place I am really looking for is the spices.
I am a spice hound. I love to spice things up when I cook especially with things that are not readily used or not found anywhere near where I live. When we moved 3 and a half years ago I was cleaning out my spice cupboard. I had 78 bottles of spices and herbs. There are not many I have come across that I haven't loved.
I think next I would hunt for a tagine. Or maybe 3 or 4. A tagine is a terra cotta cooking vessel. They have a pot/dish like bottom with a domed or peaked lid that one cooks in. I do not have one at this time but I so want one. Many of the dishes I cook I know would be so much better if only I had a tagine. This is the one I want first.....
Then, this one....
The first one is for cooking. The second one is for serving! How wonderful the food would taste if it arrived on the table served in this amazing vessel. Just looking at this vessel makes my mouth water.
And of course using the cookbook - The Food of Morocco by Paula Wolfert (once I purchase it) will be a gem in my collection. I do have the previous version but I cannot wait to get this one. Here is a link to her website
http://www.paula-wolfert.com/ There are recipes, articles and much more.
Ya know, Morocco is the first place on my Bucket List to visit. I have been many places and yet I haven't been here. I hope in the near future my number one choice on my list is lovely Morocco.
Granted, I haven't been there but I love everything thing I have read, seen in books or on the internet, the food I have eaten and the music I have heard. And OH! the smell of the spices. That, in itself is worth wanting to go there.
Morocco! Just saying the name invites intrigue.
Marrakesh! Another word of intrigue. Just the word lights me up.
Nestled at the foot of the snow capped Atlas mountains. Marrakesh beckons me.
The first place I want to hit when I get there is the souks. Djemaa el Fna. The square bustles with acrobats, story-tellers, water sellers, dancers and musicians. By night food stalls open in the square turning it into a huge busy open-air restaurant.
Sometimes I can smell what I think they will smell like. Spicy and musty, but not musty like mold musty more like intrigue musty. I can also smell animals nearby, food cooking and perfumes. At those times I close my eyes and can hear the venders hocking their wares, haggling with passerby's. I can see others sitting, drinking their tea (I hope that I am invited to sit and have mint tea with someone) and people watching like I would be doing. I would be in heaven weaving in and out of the alleys looking at the food and other items that are new to me but the place I am really looking for is the spices.
I am a spice hound. I love to spice things up when I cook especially with things that are not readily used or not found anywhere near where I live. When we moved 3 and a half years ago I was cleaning out my spice cupboard. I had 78 bottles of spices and herbs. There are not many I have come across that I haven't loved.
I think next I would hunt for a tagine. Or maybe 3 or 4. A tagine is a terra cotta cooking vessel. They have a pot/dish like bottom with a domed or peaked lid that one cooks in. I do not have one at this time but I so want one. Many of the dishes I cook I know would be so much better if only I had a tagine. This is the one I want first.....
Then, this one....
The first one is for cooking. The second one is for serving! How wonderful the food would taste if it arrived on the table served in this amazing vessel. Just looking at this vessel makes my mouth water.
And of course using the cookbook - The Food of Morocco by Paula Wolfert (once I purchase it) will be a gem in my collection. I do have the previous version but I cannot wait to get this one. Here is a link to her website
http://www.paula-wolfert.com/ There are recipes, articles and much more.
Ya know, Morocco is the first place on my Bucket List to visit. I have been many places and yet I haven't been here. I hope in the near future my number one choice on my list is lovely Morocco.
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Nicole and Ryan
Nicole is engaged!
We are thrilled. Her beau's name is Ryan. He is a great match for her. We have known his family for 20 years and have loved them from the beginning. We met them when we were living in TX while John was going to Chiropractic school. They really embraced us and we felt so much love from them.
There is no wedding date yet. It will be no sooner then the end of 2012. It certainly will not be a quick engagement like in a lot of weddings. First of all he lives in another state. It will be a while before he will be able to move to UT and then after that the ate will be set. Nicole and Ryan will live in UT. I am sure it will be somewhere near us.
They are both looking forward to the day they will be sealed in the Temple. More details to come as they happen.
Monday, January 2, 2012
10 can soup
One of our most favorite soups to make is Chicken Tortilla Soup. We have made it for 15 or so years and each time I do it is comfort to the soul.
Years ago when I started making it the kids would call it 10 can soup because it takes 10 cans to make it.
2 large cans of chicken
2 cans of chicken broth
1 lg can of petite diced tomatoes
2 cans of Ranch Beans
1 7oz can of diced chilies
1 can of corn, drained
In a large pot add all the ingredients and warm through.
Can serve with crushed tortilla chips, shredded cheese, sour cream and olives.
When we serve this, first we crush the tortillas in a serving bowl then ladle the soup on top. Adding a dollop of sour cream, some cheese and a few olives to finish it off.
This is a great soup to warm up with in the winter but it is not so heavy that it cannot be made int eh summer also.
I hope your family loves this as much as we do.
Years ago when I started making it the kids would call it 10 can soup because it takes 10 cans to make it.
2 large cans of chicken
2 cans of chicken broth
1 lg can of petite diced tomatoes
2 cans of Ranch Beans
1 7oz can of diced chilies
1 can of corn, drained
In a large pot add all the ingredients and warm through.
Can serve with crushed tortilla chips, shredded cheese, sour cream and olives.
When we serve this, first we crush the tortillas in a serving bowl then ladle the soup on top. Adding a dollop of sour cream, some cheese and a few olives to finish it off.
This is a great soup to warm up with in the winter but it is not so heavy that it cannot be made int eh summer also.
I hope your family loves this as much as we do.
Sunday, January 1, 2012
Standard Works
OK...here goes.
I, Angi, will read the Standard Works each day to meet my goal of reading the entire Standard Works by December 31, 2012.
John and I are driving back from UT to KS when I decided to take up this challenge.
http://dailyclosertochrist.com/the-daily-journey/
This blog is Emily Freeman's. She, in my opinion, is a spiritual GIANT! I love her. I have read her books, heard her speak numerous times and been enamored by her words. I hope you will pop over to her blog and check it out. Join me in the reading of the Standard Works this year. I know it will lead me on a spiritual journey, none like I have been on before.
So...back to the drive. As we are driving through Colorado I am scanning my Facebook on my phone when a fellow Facebooker is taking on the challenge and challenging others. My heart was warmed at the thought. I immediately got my iPad out and opened my scriptures. I have begun...
I, Angi, will read the Standard Works each day to meet my goal of reading the entire Standard Works by December 31, 2012.
John and I are driving back from UT to KS when I decided to take up this challenge.
http://dailyclosertochrist.com/the-daily-journey/
This blog is Emily Freeman's. She, in my opinion, is a spiritual GIANT! I love her. I have read her books, heard her speak numerous times and been enamored by her words. I hope you will pop over to her blog and check it out. Join me in the reading of the Standard Works this year. I know it will lead me on a spiritual journey, none like I have been on before.
So...back to the drive. As we are driving through Colorado I am scanning my Facebook on my phone when a fellow Facebooker is taking on the challenge and challenging others. My heart was warmed at the thought. I immediately got my iPad out and opened my scriptures. I have begun...
Happy New Year, 2012!!!
Here it is...the beginning of a new year.
This past year has been an everything year. An everything year is one that everything happens. 'Happens' means so much going on, good, bad and indifferent.
I hardly got around to blogging last year which is too bad for you and me both. I don't have the record I want and I forget much of the details that it is hard to go back and fill in the blanks.
This year my resolve is to be a better blogger as well as get more organized (meaning, dejunking stuff) plan a wedding, work on my degree, try to finish my book and still be a wife, mother, caregiver, housekeeper, chef, assistant, student, neighbor, good citizen, taxi driver, gardener, disciple of God and all around good person. Now besides all of the above
I also have taken up the challenge to read the Standard Works by Dec 31, 2012. I have never read them ALL. Yes, I have studied them but to actually read them cover to cover has been a little bit (oh who and I kidding) a lot overwhelming.
This year, too, will be a busy year. But, since I am Wonder Woman I will be able to accomplish it all.
This past year has been an everything year. An everything year is one that everything happens. 'Happens' means so much going on, good, bad and indifferent.
I hardly got around to blogging last year which is too bad for you and me both. I don't have the record I want and I forget much of the details that it is hard to go back and fill in the blanks.
This year my resolve is to be a better blogger as well as get more organized (meaning, dejunking stuff) plan a wedding, work on my degree, try to finish my book and still be a wife, mother, caregiver, housekeeper, chef, assistant, student, neighbor, good citizen, taxi driver, gardener, disciple of God and all around good person. Now besides all of the above
I also have taken up the challenge to read the Standard Works by Dec 31, 2012. I have never read them ALL. Yes, I have studied them but to actually read them cover to cover has been a little bit (oh who and I kidding) a lot overwhelming.
This year, too, will be a busy year. But, since I am Wonder Woman I will be able to accomplish it all.
Sunday, December 25, 2011
Christmas 2011
Christmas is one of my most favorite holidays. Who am I kidding...it is my favorite holiday. Not because of the presents but because of all that Christmas means.
It actually starts right around Thanksgiving. We set up our Christmas tree and decorate our home. All done while listening to Christmas music. Not the Jolly ones about Santa but the meaningful ones about Christ and family. After we are done decorating, we turn off the lights, light a fire and light the tree. MAGIC! There is something mesmerizing about watching the lights on our Christmas tree. Each night that follows it is the same ritual. I will never get tired of it.
I like to have the Christmas shopping done BEFORE Thanksgiving so I can relax and enjoy the holidays and not be stressed out trying to get gifts, go to parties, make food, get my neighbor gifts ready and all the other things we do during December. But this year that didn't happen. I did have a lot taken care of, but not all.
I love to have a wrapping day where I wrap all the presents I have purchased so far. I get my list out that I keep all year as to what I have purchased and for whom. After reviewing it, I get out all the presents, wrapping paper, tapes, scissors, ribbon and accoutrements. Let the wrapping begin!
There are so many things to do during this wonderful month. The lights at Thanksgiving Point, the lights at Temple Square, driving around just looking at the magical wonderment's of strangers yards. But, amongst all the excitement one thing we do has been a tradition since 1997. We go to our friends home in Wichita and we read The Forgotten Carols, complete with the music of course. Now, I know many of you know what that amazing story is about and how it touches so many lives but for those of you who don't you need to investigate it.
It is the story of carols written about different aspects of Christ's birth and life from essentially outsiders perspectives. For example...the Inn Keeper. And how one man has been there to witness it all. An amazing story for the season.
I wish our home was bigger or at least the living areas were set up differently. When we have large gatherings of people for dinner I want to have them all sitting at tables that touch but yet have plenty of room to walk around. I also would like to not have to displace all my living room furniture in the mean time. We love to have family over to celebrate and what better way to do it them dine on deliciousness. When I say deliciousness I mean it. Turkey, Ham, Braised Pork, Prime Rib or Cornish Hens. Other accompaniments like garlic mashed potatoes, regular whipped potatoes with all the yumminess of cream, butter and chives, green beans with bacon and onions, cheeses, fondue, and desserts of all kinds. Can you say salivation?
Christmas morning is the pinnacle of the entire celebration. We don't get up early anymore as the kids now are adults. They like to sleep in as much as we do. We have rituals about opening gifts and if I ever try to deviate everyone always says NO!!!
We start the morning with the Christmas stocking. Each person goes in turn and opens theirs while everyone else watches. After, we make and eat breakfast. Quiche, home fries with a spin, juice and hot cocoa. After clean up we all head back to the glow of the Christmas tree and warmth of the fire.
The presents are passed out by name and when they are all distributed we open them one by one from youngest to oldest so each of us can see the their joy and the care that someone took to choose the gift. I love to see this process as it brings me great joy to see the joy and happiness of each person. What more can you ask for then to be with your family celebrating Christ's birth.
Merry Christmas everyone.
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Lundgreen Reunion 2011
What a weekend!
Every other year, John's mom's side of the family head to Antimony, UT to renew family ties. Love is had for all. 1985, 3 weeks after Christian was born was our first one for this generation. John and I brainstormed the idea, got a couple of other cousins to help out and viola we had ourselves a great time. This was our 14th one.
It is a 3 day event. (It started out as a 4 day event years ago) Saturday family members start coming around noon just in time for lunch and hugs all around. As everyone gets settled, the visiting begins. First generation cousins, second generation cousins and third generation cousins. It won't be long before there are 4th generation cousins. Oh My!
Each time we meet, a different family is in charge of all the activities for the weekend. We have old fashion games like pennies in the hay, balloon stomp, water balloon tossing and sack races. This year we also had minute to win it, which was a lot of fun. There is cotton candy, snow cones and an old fashion ice cream bar.
In past years we have had skits, karaoke, sock hop, pictures taken in old western clothes and western dance lessons.
It wouldn't be a reunion at the ranch without trail rides, a rodeo, hay rides and trying to dress sheep in clothes. I love to go out the the corrals and watch the kids with the animals. One highlight is chasing calves with money taped to them. Who doesn't want to chase a cow with money on them? The kids get so excited if they can grab a buck or two.
Sundays are reserved for a family devotional. We used to all go to the Antimony ward but as we got bigger and bigger they asked us not to come and have our own thing. I guess when your visitors out number your members it is too much. No worries, our own is as good or better. This year, Robyn and Gary Beynon had returned form being Mission Presidents in Brazil and they spoke and gave report on the happenings while they were gone. WOW! that was great and powerful.
Sundays are also reserved for using the shocking machine, listening to songs from the old Edison Cylinder Phonograph, crafts, writing to missionaries and service men and of course more visiting. But the grand finale is Sunday night (at least I think so). This is the time when we talk about past generations of Johns family. Grandma and Grandpa Lundgreen and their stories as well as past generation stories. Then the best thing happens........
Burns and Mona sing!!!!
Burns is John's uncle, he's married to John's auntie. He plays guitar and crones for all to enjoy. It is a sing along also. Songs like There's a hole in the bottom of the sea, I met a bear and the best one is, (at least I think so) The long tall Texan. Of course other songs are sung but These are my favs.
We do so many fun things during the weekend but Sunday night when we all get together and listen to stories and sing the songs. Nothing is better then that to me. It just solidifies all that family means to me.
Another thing I love is seeing all the cousins. Even though I am the married into the family cousin I feel loved equally. Each person brings their own personality and love to the scene. Our children look forward to this gathering each time. They too renew their souls by this gathering. I love to see them hanging out with cousins they haven't seen in 2 years and also strengthening their bonds with cousins they see regularly. Another thing I love is how they forge friendships with everyone. Family is family but it is better when family is your best friends, too.
As the weekend winds down and good byes are said I get a little melancholy. I am already looking forward to 2013. Its a good thing all these people are just a phone call away.
Every other year, John's mom's side of the family head to Antimony, UT to renew family ties. Love is had for all. 1985, 3 weeks after Christian was born was our first one for this generation. John and I brainstormed the idea, got a couple of other cousins to help out and viola we had ourselves a great time. This was our 14th one.
It is a 3 day event. (It started out as a 4 day event years ago) Saturday family members start coming around noon just in time for lunch and hugs all around. As everyone gets settled, the visiting begins. First generation cousins, second generation cousins and third generation cousins. It won't be long before there are 4th generation cousins. Oh My!
Each time we meet, a different family is in charge of all the activities for the weekend. We have old fashion games like pennies in the hay, balloon stomp, water balloon tossing and sack races. This year we also had minute to win it, which was a lot of fun. There is cotton candy, snow cones and an old fashion ice cream bar.
In past years we have had skits, karaoke, sock hop, pictures taken in old western clothes and western dance lessons.
It wouldn't be a reunion at the ranch without trail rides, a rodeo, hay rides and trying to dress sheep in clothes. I love to go out the the corrals and watch the kids with the animals. One highlight is chasing calves with money taped to them. Who doesn't want to chase a cow with money on them? The kids get so excited if they can grab a buck or two.
Sundays are reserved for a family devotional. We used to all go to the Antimony ward but as we got bigger and bigger they asked us not to come and have our own thing. I guess when your visitors out number your members it is too much. No worries, our own is as good or better. This year, Robyn and Gary Beynon had returned form being Mission Presidents in Brazil and they spoke and gave report on the happenings while they were gone. WOW! that was great and powerful.
Sundays are also reserved for using the shocking machine, listening to songs from the old Edison Cylinder Phonograph, crafts, writing to missionaries and service men and of course more visiting. But the grand finale is Sunday night (at least I think so). This is the time when we talk about past generations of Johns family. Grandma and Grandpa Lundgreen and their stories as well as past generation stories. Then the best thing happens........
Burns and Mona sing!!!!
Burns is John's uncle, he's married to John's auntie. He plays guitar and crones for all to enjoy. It is a sing along also. Songs like There's a hole in the bottom of the sea, I met a bear and the best one is, (at least I think so) The long tall Texan. Of course other songs are sung but These are my favs.
We do so many fun things during the weekend but Sunday night when we all get together and listen to stories and sing the songs. Nothing is better then that to me. It just solidifies all that family means to me.
Another thing I love is seeing all the cousins. Even though I am the married into the family cousin I feel loved equally. Each person brings their own personality and love to the scene. Our children look forward to this gathering each time. They too renew their souls by this gathering. I love to see them hanging out with cousins they haven't seen in 2 years and also strengthening their bonds with cousins they see regularly. Another thing I love is how they forge friendships with everyone. Family is family but it is better when family is your best friends, too.
As the weekend winds down and good byes are said I get a little melancholy. I am already looking forward to 2013. Its a good thing all these people are just a phone call away.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Sub Zero Contest
Months ago Christian entered the Sub Zero Ice Cream Contest. First you submitted online ice cream concoctions that you love to make when you go to Sub Zero Ice Cream. Christian is a connoisseur of sorts of ice cream and he loves to make up many different kinds of flavor togetherness.
One of the items he submitted was Pistachio ice cream with almonds, maraschino cherries and dark chocolate flakes. 184 people submitted recipes and 12 were chosen. The company heads actually made every recipe submitted, tried them all and decided which ones they thought were the best.
Today the 12 semi finalist competed at Provo Towne Center for a chance to win a years supply of Sub Zero Ice Cream. Not just maybe one cup a week but the winner could go every day and get a medium bowl everyday for a whole year. Now that is a lot of ice cream. Just up Christians alley.
Each ice cream was made and then people at the mall were able to taste test each one and vote. People could text in their vote or vote online. The lines were insane with everyone jockeying to try all the different kinds. Christian was like a circus barker. He stood right up on his chair and called out to people and told them about his ice cream. The CEO and the Marketing Director both commented to John and I about his salesmanship skills.
Unfortunately, Christian did not win. Although we did hear many people mingling around saying they loved the pistachio the best and even one of the Sub Zero head guys was telling another person he thought the Pistachio was the best the vote didn't come out that way. The person that did win actually had over 50 votes right when the voting started. I think she just told everyone and their dog to vote at this website and or text at a certain time. There was even people on the Sub Zero page that talked about the contest and how they wished the pistachio had won.
Christian had fun and it was a a great time for all.
Who knows, maybe one day he will have a place of his own so everyone can come and enjoy all the other concoctions he makes. Ribs that are to die for, desserts that rival even the most accomplished pastry chefs, Mexican food, Italian food. You name it he can probably whip it up.
Friday, April 22, 2011
Lets fix this
Today we are headed to the hospital for Nicole to have surgery on both feet.
In December she broke both feet and now surgery is warranted. Her right ankle that had an open fracture will be opened up for tendon repair while the left foot was thought to have hair line fractures but after the cast was taken off it was discovered she had 3 complete fractures and with walking on it they shifted and healed in many different directions. The Doctor will need to break those bones, realign them and pin them. (By the way, her shoulder healed beautifully.)
Nicole will not be able to put any weight on either foot for 1 week and then minimal weight on only one foot for another week. Stitches will be removed after 2 weeks. After that she will be able to bear weight on both feet for 2 weeks before her second check up.
Her Doctor said things went well and is hoping for the best.
In December she broke both feet and now surgery is warranted. Her right ankle that had an open fracture will be opened up for tendon repair while the left foot was thought to have hair line fractures but after the cast was taken off it was discovered she had 3 complete fractures and with walking on it they shifted and healed in many different directions. The Doctor will need to break those bones, realign them and pin them. (By the way, her shoulder healed beautifully.)
Nicole will not be able to put any weight on either foot for 1 week and then minimal weight on only one foot for another week. Stitches will be removed after 2 weeks. After that she will be able to bear weight on both feet for 2 weeks before her second check up.
Her Doctor said things went well and is hoping for the best.
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Special Needs Church
What a great weekend we had in Moab but now it is back to reality.
On the way back to Lehi I wrote my talk that I am giving in church today. Nicole and I are speaking in another ward. We are speaking with the Special Needs Mutual Group.
Nicole attends Special Needs Mutual each week which is such a highlight in her week. 2 weeks they work on YW things. It is either a lesson or maybe one of the values. 1 week another ward comes and gives mutual to them. Activities, games, crafts are all included and other things too. One week is usually a dance. When the other ward comes and shares mutual with Special Needs then the following Sunday Special Needs goes to their ward and does the sacrament program.
2 special needs "kids" speak plus their buddy as well as a leader from the YW and YM organization and 1 parent. I am the parent this week. My topic is:
"How is having a Special Needs child blessed our lives."
How can I even do justice to this topic? We have had many blessings come into our lives from the moment Nicole took her first breath. How can I look into her beautiful face and not see the miracle of God working in our lives.
Nicole was born with the umbilical cord wrapped 3 times around her neck. She was being strangled but before the cord could get tightened she aspirated in the birth canal. We didn't know it at the time but that was the beginning of our journey with Nicole and the brain injury that occurred which has caused her to have the many difficulties she has suffered with during her life time.
Nicole has Christ-like love. She loves everyone. From a young age she would say this or that person was her friend and she loved them. 99% of the time she didn't even know them. It didn't matter who they were, the color of their skin or economic circumstance, she loved them.
Nicole has taught us patience, kindness, trust, love, understanding, determination, humility, hope, faith and peace. No, life has not been a rosy path. We have had many trials and tribulations stemming from her underlying condition. She has been stubborn, trying, unreasonable and sometimes a down right pill to parent but she can also be the sunniest sunshiny spot of my day.
Schedules are a must for us. We have to plan way in advance and talk about changes in advance to help Nicole become familiar with the change. Not that we can't do something at the spur of the moment but our days go more smoothly when it is planned out. For many years we couldn't live day to day or even hour to hour, it was more like minute by minute or moment by moment.
YES, having a Special Needs Child can be frustrating at times, many times I even want to pull my hair out or even just go in my closet and scream and cry, but, there are also many days when I laugh at the funny things she does or says. I also love teaching her new things even if I have taught those things to her in the past many times.
She is a gentle reminder everyday of serving and loving the least of these....
On the way back to Lehi I wrote my talk that I am giving in church today. Nicole and I are speaking in another ward. We are speaking with the Special Needs Mutual Group.
Nicole attends Special Needs Mutual each week which is such a highlight in her week. 2 weeks they work on YW things. It is either a lesson or maybe one of the values. 1 week another ward comes and gives mutual to them. Activities, games, crafts are all included and other things too. One week is usually a dance. When the other ward comes and shares mutual with Special Needs then the following Sunday Special Needs goes to their ward and does the sacrament program.
2 special needs "kids" speak plus their buddy as well as a leader from the YW and YM organization and 1 parent. I am the parent this week. My topic is:
"How is having a Special Needs child blessed our lives."
How can I even do justice to this topic? We have had many blessings come into our lives from the moment Nicole took her first breath. How can I look into her beautiful face and not see the miracle of God working in our lives.
Nicole was born with the umbilical cord wrapped 3 times around her neck. She was being strangled but before the cord could get tightened she aspirated in the birth canal. We didn't know it at the time but that was the beginning of our journey with Nicole and the brain injury that occurred which has caused her to have the many difficulties she has suffered with during her life time.
Nicole has Christ-like love. She loves everyone. From a young age she would say this or that person was her friend and she loved them. 99% of the time she didn't even know them. It didn't matter who they were, the color of their skin or economic circumstance, she loved them.
Nicole has taught us patience, kindness, trust, love, understanding, determination, humility, hope, faith and peace. No, life has not been a rosy path. We have had many trials and tribulations stemming from her underlying condition. She has been stubborn, trying, unreasonable and sometimes a down right pill to parent but she can also be the sunniest sunshiny spot of my day.
Schedules are a must for us. We have to plan way in advance and talk about changes in advance to help Nicole become familiar with the change. Not that we can't do something at the spur of the moment but our days go more smoothly when it is planned out. For many years we couldn't live day to day or even hour to hour, it was more like minute by minute or moment by moment.
YES, having a Special Needs Child can be frustrating at times, many times I even want to pull my hair out or even just go in my closet and scream and cry, but, there are also many days when I laugh at the funny things she does or says. I also love teaching her new things even if I have taught those things to her in the past many times.
She is a gentle reminder everyday of serving and loving the least of these....
Moab
For Christmas this past year, Christian gave John and I a weekend at the Sorrel Ranch in Moab. This is the weekend we are going to take advantage of it. We are so excited.
This ranch is located on a beautiful river. Our room overlooks the river and has a beautiful fireplace which I sat beside many hours while there. The grounds were equally beautiful. Horseback riding, volleyball, hiking trails and much more.
We had dinner at the Ranch which was one of the best meals I have ever eaten. I had duck and John had lamb. Half way through our meal we traded plates because they were both so great we each wanted to have some of each others food. It wasn't good enough to just have a taste or two.
Unfortunately it was raining when we were done with dinner so we head right back to our room. We wanted to take a stroll in the moon light but that was a no go.
We slept in but still was able to eat and get on our hike before the sun crested the red rocks surrounding this ranch. We were so excited to get these great pics.
Our hike was amazing as hiking in the Moab area is always amazing. The red rocks, the fresh air, the huge tumble weeds........
We had such a fun weekend together. Catching up on the weeks that we have been apart. Just quiet time. Back to reality now.
This ranch is located on a beautiful river. Our room overlooks the river and has a beautiful fireplace which I sat beside many hours while there. The grounds were equally beautiful. Horseback riding, volleyball, hiking trails and much more.
We had dinner at the Ranch which was one of the best meals I have ever eaten. I had duck and John had lamb. Half way through our meal we traded plates because they were both so great we each wanted to have some of each others food. It wasn't good enough to just have a taste or two.
Unfortunately it was raining when we were done with dinner so we head right back to our room. We wanted to take a stroll in the moon light but that was a no go.
We slept in but still was able to eat and get on our hike before the sun crested the red rocks surrounding this ranch. We were so excited to get these great pics.
Our hike was amazing as hiking in the Moab area is always amazing. The red rocks, the fresh air, the huge tumble weeds........
We had such a fun weekend together. Catching up on the weeks that we have been apart. Just quiet time. Back to reality now.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
