Great Expectations...(Not the Novel)..Part 1.

Expectations. Big word. Big Concept. Our pastor talked about our expectations and how our own expectations can lead to great disappointment or hurt feelings. Oddly enough my four year old demonstrated this perfectly when he received a gift from his teacher. He collapsed in tears when he opened his gift (at home) and found a book instead of a brand new train. Yup. "But she knows I like trains!" he quietly cried. I felt bad, he was so disappointed...but needless to say, his expectations were a little too great for the small gift bag he held in his hands.
It applies to so many things, our friends our family, holiday traditions, our bosses, our churches..the list goes on. Our expectations vs reality.
I admit,on more than one occasion my expectations have been too high and I have suffered disappointment. At some point you place a certain expectation on a person and they don't live up to what you have defined, you get angry or upset with them...but was it their fault? or mine? I think there is a balance there (but that is part II).
For instance, I think I can give a gift maybe with a great deal of personal investment which for me would be writing, a photograph, special music.. something from the heart and I can be all excited to leave it for someone on Christmas and it's met with a lukewarm gratitude. Hurt feelings? sure. Great expectations for my very own idea? *gulp* yes. Perhaps in my own grandeur I thought the gift was fantastic and I was "expecting" a great reaction. When it doesn't happen...feelings are hurt, resentment maybe? So many feelings can spawn of such an idea. I think we all do it to some point.
I have even done it to people. I expect them to handle something the way I would or better than what they are capable of...once again great expectations...great disappointment. Subconsciously I expect something from someone and when it doesn't happen, I am frustrated and maybe even angry with them. yikes. what an awesomely, ugly admission. But it's true. So, just a check point... are your great expectations leading to some hurt feelings? disappointment? maybe :)
Now..expecting great things from a great God...no disappointment there .

Santa baby...

Over 80 and (my grandma) getting her first visit with Santa. Tell me if that doesn't put a smile on your face...not sure what will ;)

If nothing else watch the video

This is how I spent my morning watching and listening to Graham and Randi's journey via Heartland Church in Indy. If you have a moment or a half hour while you are multi- tasking. Click on the link here and then click on "While you are waiting on a miracle". The video quickly summarizes their journey since Graham's accident. Then Graham's father preaches a little about the accident and the test of the faith that exudes from this. Graham and Randi then come on stage for a bit. However, if you have a quiet time...this is worth the investment. :)

We don't play holiday music...

I don't listen to the radio much, but on my drive yesterday the station (a secular one) DJ said..."We don't play holiday music, but if you are looking for Christmas music, we are your station."
It was small, but it made me smile. Maybe it's just me but there seems to be a resurgence in using the word "Christmas" this year. It's as if there is a subtle, yet noticeable rebellion among many to go against the whole "holiday wishes" and wish someone a Merry Christmas. I had TWO cashiers wish me a Merry Christmas AND post office person do the same. What I say? Is it possible? And you know what happened? I wished them a Merry Christmas back and no lightning bolts struck us, no one fell over in the lobby because they heard such an exchange... yup..it was almost as if.... Christmas was coming...not some obscure holiday ;)

A breath away...

That's all that stands between now and eternity. Today is going to be a long day for the Middleburgh community, school and extended family and friends of a young man who passed away yesterday. Sometimes, when you look back on an entire year you see how quickly it can go and fragile life is. No one holds a baby in their arms and wonders if by the time he graduates high school he will be facing the end of his life. That's hard stuff.

No one marries their true love wondering what will happen when they suffer a traumatic brain injury and no one expects that when their kiddo takes off in his car that the next phone call will be about the crash that followed one precarious turn in the road.

I could go on and on about people special to me or special to people close to me that have suffered enormous hurt this year. Heartache is only a breath away.

So. today. In the rush of the days events, breathe in and breathe out...and be thankful for that very miracle. Tonight, when you put your kids to sleep, put your cheek on their chest and listen to the rise and fall of their breathing, kiss your loved ones, say your sorry, pass out a few free hugs and perhaps most importantly, open your Bible and decide what this life (as quickly lived as it can be) is about. God knows the heartache, the soul searching, the aches in the pains, so His love is the only substance gracious enough to fall into. Reconcile your heart, For God so loved the world... it's a popular verse because it's true...but we are to choose Him. Now, when the hearts are weak and perspective is ripened with the curse of reality, God is there.

In the stalls....

When one walks into the famous Metropolitan Museum of Art the last thing you would expect is one of the highlights of the entire endeavor to occur in the bathroom. So, there we were...Crystal and I in the middle of Manhattan taking a little "break" from the photography exhibit only to overhear a trio of 80-year-old southern belles in the bathroom.
"This paper is sooooo rough," says one southern laden accent to another from the stall.
"It hurt my bum, who knew paper could be so rough," explains the next stall over while the third primps her hair in the mirror.
We try not to giggle, but the conversation was just hysterical.
"Who brought this paper in here anyway? The Russians?" At that I think we burst into giggles. The conversation ricocheted back and forth until they assured themselves that toilet paper had never been so rough and their bums were sure to be sore.
After Crystal said hello and they commented on her earrings...they did mention they were three widows traveling together making the most of their lives now. It was an "ah ha" moment, the next great American Novel...could surround those three ladies. But it was also reminder of how great they were making their lives. Loved ones had been lost, but they were making the most and enjoying the time they had now....maybe not including the METs tissue paper ;)

Thanksgiving Night..

Is a favorite. I love it because the TRULY excited people (But not the overly crazy) have their Christmas lights on already. I pretend it's just for me (haha)..as we drive home in the dark, with tummy's full and barely awake. The lights that eluded me for the days prior are now "on". It is almost like there is an unspoken code about WHEN it's ok to start getting ready for Christmas and when it is proper to put the lights up. I am good with Thanksgiving night - I like to look on my drive home.
Thanksgiving night, I will then admit, did including watching the Taylor Swift Thankgiving special featuring her new album, which I am still acclimating too. I mean, I like it and it IS moving up on my scale of appreciation...it didn't blow me away. I still haven't downloaded ALL the albums I want..Josh Groban, Sarah McLachlan and Joshua Radin...I think there is more but I can't think right now.

Irony - it wasn't too long ago that stores were banning Christmas music, this year..it seems Christmas music was playing before Halloween.

Did I Just Do That???

Yup. I did. Confrontation is not my thing, not even close. But last week in the mall in Albany I had to put the end to a screaming two year old's tantrum in the hallway. Mind you, if you know me at all, you will know this was slightly out of character... :) However, as I sat in a restaurant and the screams of the child escalated for five, ten and nearly 15 minutes without another adult in sight and entire restaurant murmuring about the situation with things were getting a little uncomfortable. I heard one woman lean over to another and say"some parents should be shot." YIKES! I began to feel like I was on that show "What Would You Do". If you have not seen it, it's a fantastic show. No camera's were in sight as far as I could tell, but I eventually was the one that meandered out to the hallway and gently, nicely (and with knees shaking) talked to the child and found her mother who was, believe it or not, just standing in line at a store a mere 10 feet away. Sigh.

The mom was twice my size and a wee bit taller so as she approached me...I could feel my insides churning and silently begged her not to scream at me in the middle of the mall. I can't think of a bigger set up for a huge confrontation then when you approach another mom about her child... (mama bear syndrome on high alert) Then I looked back over my shoulder and I was like... a whole restaurant had my back at this point. The conversation was short and I felt like I had to apply some survival mode awareness. "don't let them sense fear"..not sure what that applies too, but I did my best! I don't think I make a friend that day nor did we go out for coffee to discuss how to deal with screaming children in the mall. But the screaming at least had stopped.

Not sure what made me do it, I had friend tell me it's what coaching has done to me... enough parental confrontations and I'm a pro ;)

So, to make myself feel better I went to starbucks where I watched a little girl sit at at table and color while her mom read a novel. Much more my speed. :)

I shot an 8-pointer...

with my camera of course and was so bummed that I did not have my telephoto lens with me! However, this dude was just hanging out in the fields when I drove by. I have to admit..I thought it was one of those fakes that people put in their front yards for some reason I have yet to even understand yet.... but this guy was real. Oh so very real. :)

If.

If you knew the ending,
would you still let me write my story?
If my sky let stars fall
would you make a wish for me?
If my truth lay hidden
would you search it out?
and if I failed more than I succeeded
would you believe in me?

It's illegal to text and drive...but what about..

Taking pictures? Ok, I wasn't really driving. I pulled over like a responsible, law abiding citizen and snapped this picture of Vroman's Nose in Middleburgh. It's the signature trademark of the Schoharie Valley and I see it every time I drive, our soccer field sits in the forefront and during the fall it's just amazing. The fog rolled in yesterday morning and it just looked..well..cool :)

I think people's most endearing qualities...

are the ones they try to hide:)
Honestly....I got to thinking about it after listening to this song, by Blake Sheldon...about one million times. I love knowing someone can admit that they dance in the kitchen or they sit and watch cartoons with no kids around. I like it when I find out someone laughs out loud at their own jokes and can willingly admit their flaws...cuz honestly that's the good stuff. So many times we try to keep it together in front of others (guilty) that when we unravel a little bit - that's when we fall in love with people and find we are more alike then ever imagined. It's just a thought, but yea - I kinda like the song :)

Ever wonder what makes people think of you...

There are things, situations, songs, sights, sounds and smells that bring certain people to mind. Ever wonder what makes people think of you? I'm going the positive route here, not wondering what people may want to kick my bum around...actually- maybe I would want to know!
Anyway, a song pops on and it can bring me right to a person and a situation or a smell can remind me of something someone made one time. I can hardly process every thought of every day, but it's amazing what small thing can bring someone to mind. We probably all do it more than we realize.
I heard a line on a show the other night and I chuckled knowing exactly who, in my reality, would say something like that. A summer night, a cold chill, a verse, a specific coffee mug, a place I have been before and seen again from a distance, a quiet moment, a disjointed giggle for a hidden joke that only a certain someone would know..yup I could go on.
certain things trigger certain thoughts of certain someone(s), so ya kinda gotta wonder...how that works...vice versa :)

The Paradox of Life

That was the title of the sermon at church this morning and the short video clip has been running through my mind all day. I may not remember them all, so I might have to add more later as I let it run through my mind.

Here it goes:

We have taller buildings, but shorter tempers.
We have more technology, computers and smart phones but less effective communication.
We have bigger homes for smaller families.
We have conquered outer space, but are out of touch with our inner space
We have more professionals and yet more problems.
We have more tv channels and nothing good to watch
We have elaborate houses, but broken homes
We have more degrees, but less common sense
We have more conveniences, but less time.
We buy more and enjoy 'things' less
We have more money, but more debt
We have a bigger social network, but we feel more alone
We know how to rush, but have forgotten how to wait
Under a starry sky we are in awe of the design, but we ignore the Designer.

Shoot The Moon

I don't have the lens power to get the moon like it needs to be "had"... but it was still so fun to try last night while it was as BRIGHT as ever. My favorite one became my blog header :) enchanting to say the least!

Kitchen Inspiration

So let's cut right to it. I am not culinary artist. In fact, I am barely scratching the service of creative when I get into the kitchen. It's no secret to anyone that knows me. Don't get me wrong, I am tons of food and people eat here two or three nights a week, which I love. BUT I don't deviate much from what I know. I have a dear friend, no matter when she comes over or what she cooks, she more than once has said .."well I was looking around for new recipes..." Yea, I don't do that ...much. Mc CORMICK may saved my mundane existence..maybe. I hate to be a commercial ... but check it out here. I just bought that one...they are less than $2. I had to laugh, because tho I was on my way to step out and try something new, the first one I bought was for Shrimp Primavera - which I make regardless. Oh well, it's my internal struggle with change seeping right through to the things I cook ;)

"I like" just a simple read...so i posted it...

A touch is just in the skin

a look is just in the eyes

but what in your skin

makes my heart quicken

what in your eyes

makes my heart nearly stop

A word is simply spoken

a smile just a curve of the lips

what in your voice makes me sigh

and in your smile makes me dream

A poem is nothing more than words

a song just merely chords

so why does your rhyme bring me tears

and your sonnet never leave my mind

One night you could walk out the back door...

This was on my right

and this was on my left...no joke.

Here, There and Everywhere

I was told I was crazy :) yup, someone said it right to my face.... of course he said it in jest, but I know he meant it. Why? First and foremost because I willingly work with 19 teenage girls from August to November every year. I LOVE this time of year. I don't completely fall in love with the fall, because in my heart I want more summer, but I love the soccer season. I honestly can't remember a time in my life where fall didn't bring soccer -as a player or as a coach. Every year it's always a bunch of work to get ready, to prepare 19 girls to work together for a common goal.... so that is where I was told I was crazy. I add coaching to working, parenting - not to mention embarking upon a small, new photography business that has kept me in a whirlwind of work the past two months!
I say all that - because playing soccer was a passionate endeavor, coaching soccer is a whole new, amazing passion that gives you extreme highs and lows that can't be created anywhere else.
This past week, I watched a girl hit the shot of her life...just as her father was getting out of his car and rushing to get to the field. After the game - he was bursting with pride at what she had done...and he should have been - it was an incredible hit. But, it was special to watch her face light up as her dad recounted the seconds leading up to and following her goal. It was a moment among hundreds and I have many more I could go on and on about - but that was the most recent. So, yea- I am crazy :) But I love the crazy.
I also realize- I am much more energized during the fall and had to wonder what that was all about. I think - it's because I am doing something that I love and that spills over. So may I suggest, if there is something you absolutely love to do, take some time this week and do it! Draw, write, create, run, laugh, sing really loud for no reason, write a song, dream, praise the Lord you are alive to see today - oh..and come watch us play ;)

a few ramblings...

If I asked why
would you have an answer?
I don't think you would
searching for secrets underground
smiles ride the wind
nightmares cling to memories
dreams escape with wings
if you could hold me
i would let you

sometimes...

you wish you could understand people :)
and sometimes...maybe it's best you didn't.
I think it is what makes life interesting..
or at the very least..never boring.
I saw this :
Some people let go easy
Some people are easy to let go of
Sometimes it's easier to let go
then be the one left behind


I had to wonder what the person was thinking when they wrote it. Lots of ways to go with that. Lost love? Broken friendship? The passing of a loved family member? There are definitely people I apply those few sentences too, but thankfully not many :)
God has richly blessed me with real friends and a steadfast family...so for those that come and go...I am secure in those that come and and decide to never go.

Photo (s) of the Week (s) :)

Seriously - one of the best colors in a sunset I have ever seen. It was even taken on my lil point and shoot camera... beeeeautiful!

Today was a good day...

If you breathed in and out
you let a good memory invade your thoughts
you tasted food
or your favorite drink quenched your thirst.

Today was a good day
if you smiled
or if you cried
emotions are priceless

Today was a good day
if you could name at least one person that loves you
you could name one person you love
or you simply have known love

Today was a good day
if one foot could be put in front of the other
you turned your face toward the sunshine
your skin felt cool in a breeze

Today was a good day
if you swatted away an annoying bug
put your barefeet in the grass
or had a bbq with your family

Today was a good day
if you got to work
stressed over your tasks
and still managed to cross off a few "to-do's"

Today was good day
if you could wake up
find your way through another day
and fall asleep tonight.

Only because, I did those things today...and though none of them are seemingly a big deal...I know someone dear to my heart who could not.

Would you like some water?

It was a simple question, but it hit me. One of my closest friends from college met tragedy face to face last week. It happened so fast, one minute we were 14 hours apart and the next we were in the halls outside the ICU nearing midnight in Albany, NY. Stranger things have happened, but wow. The story is on Facebook under Praying For Graham if you are a facebooker.
However, it was night #2 as she sat in the halls wondering why her brother had to suffer a traumatic brain injury in an accident. It was all very eerie for me, hearing the same diagnosis as my brother had when he was hurt a few years ago. The shock in her face was still unsettled as the events wreaked havoc with her emotions.
However, while we sat there together (the halls felt uncommonly dark) an elderly gentleman needed a seat. Her husband sat next to me and moved our bags off the seat and we all smiled. Nice right? Complacent actually. My friend stood up and looked over at the man..."Do you need a drink of water?" he shook his head and said thank you. "Are you sure?" She continued. "Do you need anything, I would get it for you?"
Though the man didn't take her up on her offer, her ability to think outside of her own circumstances was unbelievable to me. I remember barely hanging on to sanity when it my brother, but in the simplest of fashions, she made sure the elderly man in the halls with us was ok.
The whole idea goes with her brother's song "People Matter" which is out on his CD. Get it, it's good :)
It was a simple question, but to the man in the hall it was gesture of real kindness. For my friend, it spoke volumes about her...she wasn't too wrapped up in her own nightmare to see a need in another human being. I am thinking, I noticed that for a reason.

What Not To Say...

Ya know the book ... Eat This Not That. If it hasn't already been written...I may have to venture to write a "Say This, Not That" series.
In times of crisis it IS hard to know what to say when you are in the midst of someone facing the worst day of their life. Sometimes, it's nearly impossible to write something in a card or say something of comfort. If you don't know what to say...then say that. Admit it. Admit you have no words of comfort, admit you might not understand the pain they are going through, admit that even throwing out a Bible verse might not be the best thing at the moment.
Our pastor had a great sermon two weeks ago on using the verse Romans 8:28 when you are looking to comfort someone who is hurting. To sum it up...Don't use it. That's a hard concept to swallow when you are looking crisis in the face. Trust me, I had someone email it to me one time after my brother's accident...I can't begin to describe what went through me then...so. I won't. :)
I happened to purchase Ken Ham's "How Could a Loving God...." a few weeks ago and let me tell you, the timing couldn't have been better. As I have watched people I love like my own family hurt and cry this past week, so many questions come up. My faith has been challenged. This book is really wonderful, it digs deep into those questions and answers with verses other than Romans 8:28 ;) and keeps the faith rather than destroying it.
So I will have to think on my concept of "say this, not that". I think it necessary :) I know whenever tragedy hits people are moved, emotional and reach out in a desperate hope to those they know are hurting. However, its hard to filter through "good intentions" when you are the one trying to make it to another day and sometimes people's words just make it worse.
A few key ideas...don't say "I know how much this hurts." Don't say it, unless you have lived it.
"God is in control" - though I fully believe this is true- it unleashes an anger in people..because the inevitable "why" questions is on stage next...thus...the book by Ken Ham. It's an easy read, if you are Christian - this book is almost a must. It asks some tough questions about this imperfect life. God IS in control, but the answers to tragedy, to life are not summed up in a neat little package...but the within the beautiful disaster of life, we have hope, we have promises and we have the tools to navigate it all.

It wasn't the reunion we had planned...

Anyone close to me knows this week has been tough. With the traumatic accident hurting families near and dear to me, it's been a challenge emotionally and spiritually. My best friends from college are all descending upon the beautiful city of Albany, but for a reason none of us had planned. A young man was hurt in a rodeo accident and suffered a brain injury. As he still "sleeps" it's a all too familiar feeling watching sisters, mothers, brothers, friends and a beautiful young wife try to stay together and face this huge obstacle before them.
Oddly enough, three roomies from college and best friends who haven't seen each other in years have been hugging, smiling and seeing each other again for the first time within the hallways outside of the ICU at Albany Med.
It's scary not knowing the outcome, knowing that only God has the answers and we merely have to abide in the knowledge that He has the control and not us. We have to understand that there may not be understanding right now and that the questions are enumerable. But faith binds us together, a family ravaged by a tragedy is emerging strong in the Lord and though it's not the reunion we had planned, we are all in it together. Miles have melted away this week, distance is a stranger, crisis demands attention....And together... we pray for Graham.

It comes in threes...

or so I was told. I am not sure about that, but the past couple of weeks have unfolded a bunch of mishaps all glued together...and more than three!
*A disclaimer - the following post is not a complaint, merely a re-telling of events so that either you will laugh at the unfortunate or it will comfort you to know..it happens to everyone.

July 4th - after several problems...it finally happened...all systems in the house backed up. No toilets, no showers and very quick dish washing. Having company over was a little daunting so visitors were limited;) So, without much warning - soon enough our front lawn was dug up only to reveal a calamity of errors in a previous septic system. awesome.
Simultaneously in the transfer of a BUNCH of money from one financial institution to another..it was lost. Yup. lost. After a million hours on the phone and three days of stress, the money was found.
AND who wouldn't love to be on one of the most heavily traveled roads in Albany just in time to have your car stall...but God allowed me to find the side of the road and at least get the car into a parking lot..where the problem was actually pretty minor.
Went to a concert...had a blast..but lost the tickets in the car somehow and overshot my exit, only to turn around and come face to face with all the traffic of opening day at the Saratoga Race Track and THEN Brad Paisley never even mentioned my name...sheesh.
I was all excited when I purchased my NEW camera only to find out a week later my credit card had never been charged because the register failed and the purchase was "never made".
I went to mow part of the lawn with the push mower, the one wheel rusted out and fell off which only led to use using the riding mower - which also had a part come loose and the a piece of the deck fell out, used the weed trimmer...and the string went far far away somewhere. ( I hate landscaping anyway).
Austin ended up with 102 fever for a few days and the short cut I took last week....was not so much a short cut as it was a scenic drive :)

All - in-all nothing horrible and life changing, could have been better, definitely could have been worse. I have to admit, at some point you just laugh and wonder...what next? A friend and I did manage to pound five cheese burgers, three snack wraps and a giant coke....so that was perk!
Now its a quiet morning. I have had two days all to myself (and a night) and its easy to reflect on the good stuff - like toilets that flush.

Picture of the week....(but only cuz I FINALLY got my new camera!)

Once Upon A Time...

you take it from there ;)

does this count as pic of the week?

I told Austin to be serious.... this is the face I got....

Closet Novelists Are Everywhere...

You see them in grocery stores, they stalk blogs, you may even hang out with them and have no idea they can venture to lands far away and put together stories that maybe the world would want to read.

In the past couple of months I have had heard at least three people say, "If I was going to write a book, I would write about..." and let me tell you...the ideas are really good!!! The idea of writing to express thoughts is nothing new, but it is certainly a thread that connects millions of people...I mean...how many blogs do you think exist in this world? Most of them are for personal outreach whether it be writing, journaling, keeping up with family, posting humor and sharing thoughts. It's amazing how many people even admit they have scratched down a few ideas and even logged hours writing out a story that someone may or may not ever read. The idea of writing a novel is a romantic notion. Your name on a cover and the dream of walking into Barnes and Noble with your book on the shelf. However, the journey to get to that point is less romantic, less idea and slightly grim....just ask a few potential authors-in-the-making that are struggling to find someone to publish their thoughts.

So, though most of the population will never be on the top 10 best sellers list, I believe there are masterpieces in closet spaces. It's hard for the "writers" to lend their thoughts to would-be critics or friends, it's like opening up a very vulnerable space with the fear that it will be rejected, scorned or that your "great" idea is rather...not-so-great.

But, whether or not the writer in you is resistant to share or comfortable in opening up, I hope if you love to write...that you write regardless of what the published world has to offer :)

I MIGHT even have scratched down one or two thoughts myself ;)

And So It Begins...

To see a passion of my own spark just a small interest in my own children...well, I have to admit, it's exciting. It must be what a painter sees when his child presents his first watercolor masterpiece or when a musician hears her little one singing in the back seat completely on key or the novelist watching his son evolve into a bookworm...something of you can be seen in them. They may never do more than dip a toe in the shore of what is a vast ocean of interest for me, but at least they know it, at least they feel what its like to be out there with a ball at their feet. They came off the fields with smiles, sweaty faces and smelly shin guards...and the memories came rolling back. It's not my turn anymore...it's theirs and they may love it as I did or they may not. The choice is theirs....but tonight...at least they found a liking to something I have loved :)

Just a snapshot...

I kinda sorta forgot my "picture of the week" detail. So, I will make up for it. Actually, I have a good enough excuse that I have been busy with work as an actual photographer..so if I was to have a good excuse, I like that one. But, this shot was neat - everyone loves that late summer sun just before its sets on the day. The kids had been fishing and left the pole leaning against the bench they were using. I liked it - so - I shot it :

Breaking The Norm...

This is gonna be deep..so watch out!

Since four wonderful, amazing and talented friends have posted their "1 million reasons I love summer" blogs...I'm gonna deviate. I am going to break the norm..I am going to say the 10 things I hate about summer...

1) bugs and their bug bites

2)spiders and the way they think they can just hang out in the corners and you'll never see them.

3)people who try to convince me camping is fun

4)getting thrown into various bodies of water

5)blisters on my toes from sandals I haven't worn in 10 months

6)sweaty armpits...

7)bee stings

8)pretending I am going to start some sort of garden type thing

9) Rainy days when the weatherman said it was supposed to be 85 and sunny

10) I don't think I have 10...cuz ..um....I am a HUGE summer fan ;)

there.

Camp fires, counter tops and kitchen tables....

The three best places for conversations :) The past two weeks have been gifts for fantastic people and intriguing conversation and well, they all took place out at our camp fire, at the counter or at my kitchen table. I am not sure there is just one element that allows conversation to unfold and even allow some of my friends to peel back some layers and be a little more exposed. I am certainly surrounded by fascinating people. It may be the ambiance of a crackling fire late at night or the calming of the dim lights at the counter top or the relaxing consumption of food that can turn dinner conversation into debates, story telling and lots of laughter. Whatever the trigger may be, it's always fun for me to dig a little deeper into the people I am around just about every day!

I DID learn that ONE of my friends has the gift of guitar and from what I hear, rumor has it that his voice is pretty good....so...I'm thinking....a camp fire might just be the place to unravel this little bit of talent. See, I am safe knowing he won't read this...but those who know him will..and I say...pass the news on..it's out there. I even have the song picked out...so if you are around in late August...that's his deadline. :D


PS: maybe after today - I can add picnic table. ya just neva know.

Anyway- its been an interesting couple of weeks and I say, my kitchen table, counter, and camp fires are always open. :)

connections

I set a goal for this week, it was small...but I did it. I touched base with three photographers far better and more experienced than myself and I'm really excited about it. I don't know all of them personally, but I feel like I do now! The process of growing in this field is ongoing and the learning never ending. I'll list them here in a bit because if I think they are fantastic and definitely top notch. So, here's to garnering as much as I can and improving as much as possible.

Pics and thoughts.

I ALMOST forgot to post my pic for the week. Actually, there wasn't a lot because THE picture of the week will forever be in my mind as I didn't have my camera with me. Lesson learned. Well, maybe.

I read that if you have to explain a photograph or a picture, it probably isn't that good. :) haha. But I will enumerate regardless. Have ever gone to a venue that is usually busy and active, but returned when its empty and quiet? I've walked onto a soccer field before a huge game before anyone else has come. It's silence is very unique and calming. Recently after a championship softball game I was covering, this bag was accidently left behind (eventually recovered).

The field had just been vacated after the well attended competition and it was ironic that the main ingredient of the game itself remained. So, perhaps not explaining the photograph, but explaining why it was taken!

Also ironic because I think we all have our moments where we feel we are really important, perhaps to someone or to some event, but once that time is over we feel left behind or cast aside. It's like we make an investment and then...well...in the very place we were cheered on....we are somewhat forgotten. But, then again if we are sticking with sports metaphors...I guess you have to ask if you always play to win or you simply play for the love.

Summer is for....

so many things I can hardly list...reading, concerts, bonfires, swimming, birthdays! oh and tons of family and friend time. However, my summer reading list is daunting...I wanna read everything. It all started with a friend giving me four books ( two of which are Nicholas Sparks) and then I walked into Barnes and Noble with my friend Stacey - with the idea to "browse". I was not successful. I bought my latest James Patterson fix (for $6!!) I blame stace. ;)
THEN.. my mom suggested Outrageous Grace - written by Grace Fabian - a missionary tied to the church I grew up in whose husband was killed while translating the Bible into the Nabak language in Papua New Guinea. I actually remember that happening, but I was really young, so if you are game for a pretty raw story - check it out here.
And finally I really want to read The Wednesday Letters... my list continues, but those are a few calling out to me on the book shelf ;)
Concerts - yup. 2 so far!
and hopefully a little theater at the end of August :D
This summer is going to fly.

Dear Price Chopper Lady...

My sincerest apologies for my actions Monday afternoon. I was one of those people I would blog about, you know, the kind that seems like they are in a rush and they don't take the time to appreciate what is around them. I was the one wielding the cart like a NASCAR driver through the produce aisle with reckless abandon. You see, I was trying to get to a friend's house before 2! I was trying desperately to get to the strawberries and then whip around to the corn, but you see you somehow stopped your cart on one side and were browsing the produce on the other...I couldn't squeeze through...and then someone was behind me... I was stuck. Stuck in the produce section with the clock ticking away...waiting for another text message to pick up something ;) It was a pressure cooker situation! I tried to say excuse me, but you weren't really listening...so I merely nudged your cart and tried to slip past you without notice. I MAY have brushed by you slightly causing you to give me a dirty look, which I probably deserved, but I was on a mission. I was on mission for corn, chips and strawberries and I had only so much time to get there.

So, perhaps we both lack in supermarket etiquette. I should be more patient and plan my route better and well maybe none of us should park our cart on one side of the aisle and shop in the other...it's just not aisle savvy.

Perhaps when you are browsing the Internet and I am sure you do, you seem like the browsing type...you could accept my apology.

I won't ramble on about lawn sale etiquette (tag sale, yard sale, garage sale whatever you call em.) Sometimes, really...junk is really junk...it's not a treasure for ANYONE. Ok, I'm done. phew.

Do you have.....

somone you trust? I mean, REALLY trust. I hope everyone has at least one. I ask, because it's an easy word to say. It is not an easy word to FEEL. There are plenty of people I like, plenty of people I enjoy, but few I can really, really trust.

Whether it be one person or several or different people for different things, everyone should have at least one person they can go to and be able to breathe. That one person you feel you can confess anything too and they would still wrap you up in a hug, that one person you can admit your faults to and they still can say they love you, the one person who sees the ugly side and makes you feel more beautiful because of it.

It seems like a simple question until you really start to dig around inside yourself and you kind grimace at your blemishes or squirm under your secrets - but somehow- it is easier to breathe when you have someone who knows all that too and confirms...that you are somehow still huggable ;)

Sometimes, I think trust is bigger than love itself, but that's just me :) So, I hope you have that, I do.

So they are building a new house...

Yup. My parents decided (without my consent believe it or not) to build a new house. It's not very far from where they are now, a little more obscure, away from two busy roads and sunk into the woods where I am sure my dad will relish the quiet and privacy...mom might need to get on a "chat" more now and then:)
I am truly excited for them, but wow! We have lived in the house where they are now for MOST of my life. I am sure they will have the same nostalgic quandries I do, but it will be weird to relinquish the rights to just drive up that driveway and walk into the house.
I am not a HUGE Miranda Lambert fan... but this song...well..mite have to claim it for awhile... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DQYNM6SjD_o


It's funny I remember getting my room and thinking it was "my own", my very new room to which I completed it with lavender walls and unicorn bed sheets. I didn't learn to play guitar in my room, but I learned to write. I spent HOURS handwriting novels, yes hundreds of pages and I still have them. Of course, now I look at them and giggle, but back then, it was a brilliant masterpiece that would one day meet publication - I was sure of it ;) It will be sad saying good -bye to the house that owns most of your childhood memories and since I am SOOO good with change...I am sure I will adjust quickly :)

All in all - it will be an awesome move from my parents..I mean, they will be about two miles out of my way when I drive to work, but I guess it's not TOTALLY about me :D

OH and in a totally unrelated topic...
My song that I was belting out when I missed my exit after a photoshoot..is this one... luv it :) FREE - Zac Brown Band.... seriously - play it really loud while your driving...you might miss your exit too..it could happen.

Might not always get this lucky...

but as far my finding a photo of the week...this bald eagle made it happen. I was photographing another event - and he just flew overhead....cool huh?

Another Austin moment..

As he curls up beside me this morning and asks to snuggle...I have a mom moment..."of course you can." So we snuggle and watch Dinotrain together....to complete this moment, he looks up at me with big brown eyes and says.."I love you mama,"

Ah. such sweetness..and then..

"But I love chocolate too, actually I REALLY love chocolate and trains and dinosaurs and race cars and bulldozers and cement mixers."

So close to a Hallmark moment....at least I made the list ;)

Ah. May 16

It was seven years ago today my brother was t-boned by a van in which the impact allowed him to suffer one of the most serious brain injuries a human can sustain and live ( I use the term "live" loosely). I am not sure a "May 16th" with go by without those thoughts in my head nor will it pass without my parents reliving those hours where they learned their child had been hit and was facing emergency brain surgery...that would last eight hours with no promising out come...
this is a little of what my mom wrote in reflection of today:

Seven years, is it a long time or a short time? I guess it is all relative. To my mom, at 86 years old, it probably is a short amount of time. To my grandson, Andrew, it is his entire life.

Seven years ago, our precious Joshua was in a horrific car accident which left him clinging to life, enduring an 8 hour brain surgery. It is an old story but it will never end….to us.

God told the Israelites to set up memorials to remember what God had done for them. This is my memorial…remembering Joshua’s accident and knowing what God has done.

God does not want us to look back to remember those who have done wrong to us or to think our lives have been tough. As a Christian, I am a new creature in Jesus Christ. I WILL look ahead to my mansion in heaven. Until then I am to live here with the scars. Scars are reminders; I choose to be reminded of God’s graciousness during a time in my life when I could only utter, “God, this is too hard.” He knew, He cared, He supplied.

Amber introduced this song by Legacy Five to me. If I had the talent, I could have penned these words. They express where I was.

“Lord stay close to me, as I journey through the darkness of this great unknown.

Lord, stay close to me, though I've place my faith in You, I feel so all alone.

My heart trembles like a child as I walk each scary mile.

And the only prayer my lips can find to speak is Lord, stay close to me.”

Despite my doubts, my fears, and perhaps my anger, God did not leave me even when I “felt” so all alone, He was there. I will choose to look at what God has given us even though we all, as a family, suffered greatly during Joshua’s recovery. We were never given hope by medical doctors that he would survive, and if he did, that he would ever lead a “productive life”.

God had a different plan. His plan is perfect. Had Joshua died he would be celebrating his 7th birthday in Heaven. But, God in His infinite wisdom, chose to leave Joshua here, for a while longer. In the last seven years I have learned much: God loves Joshua more than I do, God can speak and lead Joshua when I can’t, God can give me peace to “let Joshua go”…again.

It took 2 years for Joshua to be able to leave home again. Then he lived and worked in Walton, NY for 4 years before moving to South Otselic, NY to be the local school’s IT person last fall. He is employed doing what he went to college to learn. He rents a house and maintains it very well. He has a lovely young woman in his life. He still comes home once in a while. And most importantly, He still loves God and serves Him. What more could a mother want?

So, next time you “feel” all alone. You aren’t the only one who has been there. Most of us have. The important thing is to KNOW that you are not alone. Our Creator God, God of the Universe, our Redeemer, our Fortress, our Comfort, our Great Physician, He is there with you, holding you, caring for you, and waiting for you to turn to Him.

Seven years? Compared to eternity?

--------------------------------------------------------

She's pretty amazing huh?

So, yes today was a melancholy day of reflection, but it was a good day all the same. There will forever be the unanswerable "why" - but really who are we to ask? I will forever be grateful my brother's life was spared, I will forever be grateful for what I have learned since then.

Just a few amazing moments...

I had the pleasure of photographing 34 World War II veterans from the local area be escorted to the Albany International Airport Saturday morning. A sunny morning and 40 bikers with American Flags and state police provided the ultimate escort through local towns until the war heroes were met at the airport. I had to wonder what was going through their minds. They were all 20 years old or so when they flew out of our country to fight against another. It was all so long ago, but to them, the memories are vivid. The emotions were written in their overwhelmed expressions as they watched policemen flash their lights and traffic stop to allow their bus to pass through. It was precious to see them talk and joke around with so many sad memories haunting their past. However, they would all say it was worth it, they all said it was for freedom. Yup, something I think my generation may take for granted more often they we care to admit. But, it was not taken for granted Saturday, not when I was able to hug and shake hands with so many men who seemed so impressed that a day was created just for them.
I have to admit, the tears came easy when I watched them all walk down the corridor of the airport and people awaiting their own flights stood to salute or clap for them. It's hard to explain the emotions that pumped through the airport Saturday morning, but it was amazing all the same.
Here is one of my favorite pics of the day: The rest are posted on my photography blog.

A challenge....

The idea is nothing new... in fact I kinda got it from Josh Lloyd when he challenged himself to photograph something every week. I photograph for work all the time, but there is something, well, rigid about that. So...I am going to try to find something "different" to photograph each week. Not sure what that will be, but I know when I drive around I often see something and I think, "hmm, that could be a neat pic". PLUS...this will force me to have my camera with me at all times because it never fails that when I leave it behind...I see something cool.

So, here's the first photograph....

He was sitting outside the gas station while I was waiting for someone...scratching off a lottery ticket...which I thought was fitting considering his hat ;)

Also in the week of small accomplishments. I have completed week two of Insanity...sheesh. AND. FINALLY. watched Casablanca...from beginning to end..with barely an interruption. It was ironic because then the following night I was watching a show and they kept quoting lines from that movie. Random. Oh and I was able to watch The Outsiders a bit ago too... two classics from two very different era's :). Mission accomplished. Now...deadline.

Lacey...

Once upon a time...there was a girl...who I roomed with at college...I cannot divulge all of our "endeavors" BUT I can say - though we had a blast in college...we have definitely morphed since those days at LU. The biggest change....we had children. However, Lace decided to have four, I stopped at two. The thing is...the very girl who stressed out over good grades handles four kids like a genius.

The best part is: when she writes her blog its hard not to giggle all the way through it. Why? Because if you ARE a mom, you just KNOW exactly what she is going through...but somehow she finds that awesome sense of humor....so check it out...

http://jakesaysmaybetomorrow.blogspot.com/2010/04/good-times-at-kindergarten-registration.html

When You Wonder If You Can Forgive THAT Person...

You can't really understand the pain of any circumstance unless you have traveled the road yourself. You can sympathize, but you cannot empathize. I cannot understand your hurt and you can't truly understand mine...unless of course...we have suffered the same.

If you have five free minutes, click on the post below. It is written by a friend of my mother's. They share a common likeness...a child who has suffered a severe brain injury.

http://steveandhannahsmith.blogspot.com/2010/04/update-42910-day-171.html

The circumstances are different in many ways, but the biggest difference is this : My brother's accident was simply that...an accident. It was horrific and gut wrenching, but there was no one to blame, unless of course we chose to blame God himself...but that was not an option. In this lovely mother's situation, her family was turned inside out and upside down by a drunk driver. Her blog is the statement read in court as the man was sentenced...please read and even if you don't have children - try to understand the depth of her forgiveness evolving from the caverns of despair. I pray most of us are never asked to forgive like this, but are we able to forgive the more "minor" infractions incurred on our rather thin skin? Just askin'. T'wasn't an easy pill for me to swallow myself.

*(after thought)

I was thinking of this post and had to add one little thing..matters of a hurt heart are never trite. I was never suggesting that unless you have gone through a major trauma in your life you should be open armed and forgiving. Each person has their own experiences and their own recesses of hurtful life events. The post was merely a taking off point, a point at which I hope, we can all sit back and hope perspective situates itself hand in hand on our walk through whatever that may be :)

Thought this take on "drugs" was a lil better than what I am used to...

puzzle pieces

Austin to me: "Am I God's puzzle?"
um what?

Austin again: "Am I God's puzzle?"

Me: "Why do you ask that?"

Austin: "Well, He put me together. I must be His puzzle. Did he do a good job mom?"


"Yea kiddo, I think he did a good job of putting you together."

Big Austin Boy Smile."That's because I am His puzzle"

:)

Slightly Insane...

Ok, so - a runner I am not. In my head, its a great idea, in my knees- eh not so much. However, I relented and embraced the new Insanity work out by Beach Body. I had done P90x and I probably will again, BUT check out the link. I only post this so you know I am doing it. Then you'll say to me... "hey how's that work out going" and I will have to answer you...and hopefully my response will be..."good, doing it every day!" or something close.

It should be here by the end of the week...so next week...the journey begins! yikes!

Octopus...Octopi? and all its glory

Ok, so this may be the most random thought process ever, you may just want to stop reading now if you mind random ramblings :)

Anyway - last Friday we visited the battleship Wisconsin and Nauticus in Virginia. As the kids got tired we went in to watch this IMax movie on the Octopus. It was fascinating...not as fascinating as the shark one (but that is a whole other post...still looking for people to go diving with me!) There are over 300 kinds of Octopus(octopi?) and really - I had never paid much attention to them before, I mean, I loved Pearl in Finding Nemo - but this was a whole new level of ocean floor viewing. The fascination is that God made 300!!!! kinds and my favorite one ( can't remember the name) is one that can transform to look like a number of other sea creatures to protect itself. It made itself to look like sand, an owl!, a nest of snakes, coral...seriously I am not doing it justice...I am just saying wow- very creative. But really, why? In just one species there are 300 variables and if not for a select few scientists who would even know about it!? There so many ways to go on that, but it leads me to at least express this thought. Many people I love and care about are hurting, barely putting one foot in front of the other every morning and just trying to come up for enough air to take their next breath. I understand that feeling..all too well. But, as I watched the Octopus - the stupid, random (very cool sea creature)...God thought enough about that creature to give it the coolest forms of protection, hunting mechanisms, and even good looks ;) ok, maybe not - but since God managed to care enough to be creative and savvy with the octopus and He cared enough to make 300 kinds and give them all a unique way to survive life, well then I know God cared enough about each person in my life (including myself and every human being ever made) to protect us, give us the breath we need to survive, face the day ahead, and even - if we need to - a way to hide from danger...a respite if you will. If He designed a way for the octopus to survive its daily struggles ( I mean life can't be easy with so many tentacles all the time), then each day we are given enough to make it through - cuz...YOU are SLIGHTLY more important than the octopus :) just sayin.

What if I were a twin?

I have known several sets of twins and for every dynamic duo I can say that they may look an awful lot alike, but have always been as opposite as two people can be. We saw these two lovely ladies several times a couple of times walking on the boulevard and they were ALWAYS dressed exactly alike. I wanted to take their picture so badly without seeming like a stalker of some sort. Our last day at the beach- guess who we sat down next to..... :)



Seriously? Are they not the most endearing? I kept wondering... did they ever argue about what they were going to wear? Who got to pick the color of their beach bags? Does one think stripes make her look fat, but goes with the flow anyway? Which one is assertive? Which one is more easy-going? Shy or out going? Cheeseburger or vegetarian? Coffee or wine? I wonder if I were a twin...haha...I will just leave it at that....


oh and a two people asked... the picture on my previous post with austin running in the water...no the water wasn't THAT blue. I have a filter on my lens. The water was pretty for sure, but the filter accents the blues :)

Ps. I Like it here too (part two)

Ok, so my last post conjured up all the nostalgia of my home-land..but...maybe just maybe...I could like it here too......

I think so.

I like it here...

I love visiting New York City. The key word being "visiting". I enjoy the thrill of going there and seeing all there is to see. I must have sat in Central Park for an hour just watching people of every walk of life pass ( or skate, run, ride horseback, bike) me by. It's amazing such completely different world is only a couple of hours away not to mention one of the most influential cities in the world. I embrace the huge scale of it all and I really could just sit and watch people all day long ( from a Starbucks window seat of course!)

However, I like it here. I like where I am and where I live. I like my space ( and those who visit my mountain know I have a lot of it). I enjoy sending my kids outside to play and not having to chase them step for step worried I would lose them in a sea of people. (Though we came close last year with Austin at Washington Park..ugh).

I enjoy the quietness of my backyard and the sweet breeze that lulls life to sleep at night. I like the giant pond that reflect the sun...which sets behind the mountains and not behind the skyscrapers. Yup, at times its inconvenient (i.e. seven foot high snowbanks.), but overall I guess I'm a country girl. I like being barefoot in the grass, I like the quietness of my road and I enjoy the slow pace of my mornings (people know how important that is to me).

So, I am always thrilled to go to NYC and immerse myself in a culture that is as unique as each person that walks its streets, but I am glad when I leave and I start seeing rivers and hills replacing streets and buildings. That's just me. It's funny how two worlds can be so close, yet so far apart.

Books....

I have once again started more than one book, but I think its a habit I will never change. I DID read The Last Song by Nicholas Sparks in three days. I can't help it. Even though his stories are usually predictable there is something that just sucks you right in...well at least me...and I don't stand a chance.
However, I am also reading Crazy Love, by Francis Chan. It is a whole new type of love story. A real one. A Godly one. I picked it up at the conference I went to a few weeks ago. I saw right through what they were trying to do...they gave us "breaks" throughout the day to browse the book store. Yup. Turn me loose for breaks in a book store like I am not, at some point, going to BUY one. Maybe it was because the cover was red and I like that color, or I liked the title, or something. But out of the hundreds of books I picked this one - I had never heard of nor had I ever heard for the author. There is One who is inlove with us, but....are we inlove with Him? Get the book. or you can borrow it....
Ok, and yes I am reading The Note. However, a trip to the beach in a little while...I might be able to knock off one or two more...hee hee.
We'll see! Any more book suggestions? I want em.

My heart broke a little...in a good way.

I am currently working on a feature piece regarding an annual trip World War II veterans from our county venture on every spring. It's called the honor flight, a trip that is organized by various regional hubs to escort veterans to the WWII memorial in Washington D.C.

So today, I spent an hour on the phone interviewing two wonderful men from the war. The textbook information lifted off the history books and began to breathe with real memories as these men told their story. Their voices were shaky, but their minds were sharp. I had to speak slowly, but even better...I had to listen slowly. My heart broke just a little as they spoke patiently, articulately and passionately about their voyage. They all know that their bit of history is falling further away as 1,000 veterans pass away every day! Their stories, well, they pass too unless we capture them. I had that moment today. I captured two. I am not sure I am done. After a few minutes with these men I felt like I had been touched by something precious, it can't be explained. There were tears in my eyes ( not exactly a hard core reporter.) But I didn't want to be. These men had traveled the world, sacrificed so much and here they were thanking me profusely for working on an article (humbling).

I aim to deliver their articles personally, at least I would like to. I want to shake their hand ( eh, I know me..I'll hug em).

I'll post the article once it is published. I won't do it justice. But, I'll try.

A quote from one that I am sure to use:

"I hope future generations see this memorial," he said. "Freedom was not free. It had to be paid for."

same guy - two songs

I think its funny - how one singer (Jaron..who is growing on me) can write this song (I may giggle when I hear it) Pray For You (which actually, I think has a nice melody) and this one Beautiful To Me... the video isn't that great...but the words...yup :) I like.... lots. Same guy-two slightly different songs.

BTW - thanks for those who asked. The photo shoot yesterday went better than I thought it would! I would have never been able to shoot it indoors, so thank the Lord it stopped raining. The overcast skies were perfect and the house was located in an older part of the main street - so some nice backgrounds and impromptu set ups. Crazy! but...fun ;) I'll post once I get permission to do so!

Shootin' on the Fly!

Ok, nothing like a panicked mother asking you to shoot her son's senior portraits ASAP. Could I come to the house? um sure. Could I do it between baseball practice and after school ( 45 minutes) Um. ok. Could I please bring a background...what?

Ok, so I agree- only because hopefully it will be PR...but I am kinda walking into this photo shoot completely blind. It's rainy - so the chances of outside shots are slim, I have no idea what their house is like...so lighting will be an impromptu deal...hmmm.

Kinda wish I could stick me a little Joe McNally in my back pocket right about now.

Wish me luck!

YIKES!

*giggle giggle*

You know those moments that are supposed to be really serious...but something strikes you funny..and you are doing all you can do to NOT laugh? I know, it's awful...but for some reason it happens to me...lots. Everyone around seems locked in, serious, totally lost in the moment - but my mind is circling in a realm where seriousness was lost a few steps back and tears for the moment are replaced by the staunch face of one trying not to giggle.

Yup. That's me, but at least someone else admitted to me they did the same thing, so I had to breathe a sigh of slight relief that I had not completely lost my mind. I have to be vague in order to protect the innocent (and slightly more serious) parties in this story.

However, it has happened more than once. Church. School. Serious Conversation. Funerals ( I know). Weddings. You name it. I seem to have an issue here. Perhaps, I have a deep rooted problem with getting personal and I replace it with a giggle fit ;) haha. I have no idea. Dr. Phil here I come.

The only problem is, when I look back at the moment...I still find it funny.

Award? me? wha??

If you haven't checked out her blog yet. You should. Jill Kemerer is an published author in the making. You'll see her at some point when you are grazing through inspirational books at your favorite bookstore, until that day, you can follow her journey to being published (and she will be). So many people have the desire to be a writer and rightfully so, they are good at it. Very few have the gumption, grit and determination to really dig in and get it done. The non-sexy side of writing I guess you could say. For those that do stick with it, it is quite a journey to endure. Jill is one of them and she is connected to a number of others that I think can really open your eyes to the world of writers and publishers and all that falls in between.
So...it had to make me smile when I was on her blog and saw this award for me, from her. I had to follow the rules;) and post it. So, thanks Jill for that little bit of sunshine! Now...I feel like I should write something creative. :)
Never-the-less. Thanks for the award. :)

Tragedy and Triumph in Loudonville

I spent the day in Loudonville listening to Evelyn Husband Thompson speak. I will probably expand on it in detail at some point. BUT if you have some "google" time read some stories about her. A woman, a mother, a widow, a wife with a love for Jesus that is REAL. Yes, real, not the kind you just talk about, sing about or even read about...the one you LIVE about. She was the wife of the Col. Rick Husband who died when the space shuttle Columbia failed to land about seven years ago. She and her children stood waiting to welcome him home, but he never came... he went to a different home..

I will, I am sure at some point talk about her more. For now...I'm tired and I have to set the clocks ahead - lose that hour of sleep...BUT -gain a lil more sunshine!!

here we go...

With a little help...I finally decided on this concept for a business card for what will hopefully become a nice photography jump for me. My site is gaining ground and this was the next thing on my "to do" list. I have to admit..I am excited and nervous, BUT thanks to some very dear people who have been a fantastic encouragement to me... it's a step in the a direction I want to go. So! With some deep breaths, a prayer for God's will and some beautiful eyes (my cousin's daughter)...here we go!

Get Out Of Jail Free...

I wasn't going to post this..but I can't resist.

So...this is a hypothetical story...of course.

On the way home from school yesterday, Gregg MAY have gotten pulled over by a cop after he MAY have picked up Andrew from the elementary school.

The cop MIGHT have seen him swerve when he tried to pull his cell out of his pocket and place it in his cup holder. IF the cop did stop Gregg, it MIGHT have just upset Andrew enough that he started crying in the back seat.

The cop MIGHT have seen Andrew with tears in his eyes crying: "Please don't arrest my dad."

If this were a real story - I would say having a crying child in the back begging for their father's freedom from jail is possibly a very effective technique.

No ticket issued.

The end.

You Never Know...

One of my best friends from college posted a status message on facebook that read "Be nice to everyone you meet, they are fighting a battle you know nothing about." I could probably stop my post right there and leave everyone who reads it to ponder those words. Her post affected a lot of people because it triggers a slight guilt to wash over you...at least it did me.

How many times have I been impatient with the cashier at the store? the slow driver in front of me? the obnoxious kid? the mopey adult? the stubborn friend? I am sure I could go on.

For me its a progressive idea. I love to watch people, but watching people with that phrase stampeding through my thoughts gives a whole new dimension to the art of watching people.

I should know better:

For example. After my brother's accident a few years ago - he was in Illinois, I was home in NY trying to put one foot in front of the other - waiting for the news of my brother. Would he live? Not sure. I got through each day, by the grace of God. In line at the store, with my five month old baby - my phone rang. My dad was on the other end. I stopped loading groceries and listened. The cashier was obviously annoyed and people behind me were impatient. But every phone call brought news of my brother. My dad had called to let me know Josh had opened his eyes... a monumental thing in light of his coma.

I finished the phone call quickly and the tears brimming my eyes - and mumbled an apology and I remember thinking..."if only they knew the battle I was fighting".

So, today. be nice to everyone you meet...... :)