Thanks Melinda for the photos! We love you all.
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Thursday, November 12, 2009
As always . . .
For the last couple of weeks, I have been feeling very sorry for my poor husband.
I have always considered myself a certain kind of person, and I think, as I consider myself, that I purposely fly over the glaring faults in my character. That's why I have been avoiding the word obsession to describe my recent behavior. But I have decided to come clean. Obsession is the correct word, no matter how much I dislike it.
Almost a week ago, I finished the third draft of my book. It took me about two weeks to extensively edit and revise 311 pages of story. As you can imagine, during that time, no laundry got done, no grocery shopping or cleaning, not even much conversation. Poor Steve! I hope to sell a billion copies of this book and make it worth it to him (not that he cares; we've already decided we don't want to live in a castle). I hope someday I can look back on this period of my life and call it "working," rather than obsessive.
So with the draft done, it is finally ready to be seen by eyes other than mine. I have emailed my precious book to five close friends (well, four close friends and one close brother). That was five days ago. I have been antsy all week, waiting to find out what people are thinking. It is amazingly vulnerable, to leave something that I've spent so much time and energy on in the hands of other people. I will have to get over that if I ever want to publish it.
If you're one of those friends (or my brother), I am so excited and scared to find out what you think. If you're not one of those, I promise you'll get to read it eventually . . . when it comes out in hard cover . . . for $15.95. (Just kidding, I have no idea how much it would cost.)
In the meantime, I need to get working on another book, something to get my mind off the waiting. But I seem to have lost all my motivation to actually write. I need another story idea . . . Maybe I just need to find another soundtrack. Most of this book was written to the beautiful tones of Anthony Warlow and Jekyll and Hyde. Any suggestions for good, obsessive music?
I have always considered myself a certain kind of person, and I think, as I consider myself, that I purposely fly over the glaring faults in my character. That's why I have been avoiding the word obsession to describe my recent behavior. But I have decided to come clean. Obsession is the correct word, no matter how much I dislike it.
Almost a week ago, I finished the third draft of my book. It took me about two weeks to extensively edit and revise 311 pages of story. As you can imagine, during that time, no laundry got done, no grocery shopping or cleaning, not even much conversation. Poor Steve! I hope to sell a billion copies of this book and make it worth it to him (not that he cares; we've already decided we don't want to live in a castle). I hope someday I can look back on this period of my life and call it "working," rather than obsessive.
So with the draft done, it is finally ready to be seen by eyes other than mine. I have emailed my precious book to five close friends (well, four close friends and one close brother). That was five days ago. I have been antsy all week, waiting to find out what people are thinking. It is amazingly vulnerable, to leave something that I've spent so much time and energy on in the hands of other people. I will have to get over that if I ever want to publish it.
If you're one of those friends (or my brother), I am so excited and scared to find out what you think. If you're not one of those, I promise you'll get to read it eventually . . . when it comes out in hard cover . . . for $15.95. (Just kidding, I have no idea how much it would cost.)
In the meantime, I need to get working on another book, something to get my mind off the waiting. But I seem to have lost all my motivation to actually write. I need another story idea . . . Maybe I just need to find another soundtrack. Most of this book was written to the beautiful tones of Anthony Warlow and Jekyll and Hyde. Any suggestions for good, obsessive music?
Saturday, October 24, 2009
The Lady of Shalott
She left the web, she left the loom,
She made three paces through the room,
She saw the water-lily bloom,
She saw the helmet and the plume,
She look'd down to Camelot.
Out flew the web and floated wide;
The mirror crack'd from side to side;
"The curse is come upon me," cried
The Lady of Shalott.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
An update
So, anyone who has facebook knows my semi-big news: I finished the first draft of my book yesterday. It was pretty exciting, as it is a first for me. To celebrate, Steve and I went to a Legos store (turned out to be a disaster: it took forever to find a parking spot, and the store was full of obnoxious kids) and then Applebee's. While we were at Applebee's, we caught the back end of a really terrible football game, which killed the mood a little. But regardless, I was feeling pretty proud of myself.
Then, back in rational-thinking-mode, I remembered that the story is going to require extensive revisions to turn it into something viable. I'm sorry to say it, but the first 25 pages are extremely boring. Even I get bored reading them, and I have a personal investment in the character! So I need to start the editing process. I expect this will take longer than actually writing the book took. Sadness. But I hope to have a book worthy of being published when I'm done, so bring on the red pen!
Then, back in rational-thinking-mode, I remembered that the story is going to require extensive revisions to turn it into something viable. I'm sorry to say it, but the first 25 pages are extremely boring. Even I get bored reading them, and I have a personal investment in the character! So I need to start the editing process. I expect this will take longer than actually writing the book took. Sadness. But I hope to have a book worthy of being published when I'm done, so bring on the red pen!
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Writing
I can't believe it is already October 11. This month is going by so quickly. Of course, I encourage time to go as quickly as possible, because the more it goes, the closer we get to hopefully having a family!
Anyway, today in church, one of my good friends cornered me and asked if I would like to join in a writing group she wanted to start. She had been working on a book, and another of our friends has also been writing one. I hesitantly revealed that I am also working on a book (as usual, I am almost always working on a book . . . ask me how many I've finished). So we all agreed to form this writing group and get together to offer suggestions and constructive criticism.
Here's the problem: I am really self-conscious about my writing. There are only a few people scattered throughout my past that have been allowed to read anything I've written. Although I do want to be published, I have a hard time allowing other people to see things in rough form. Also, for the book I'm currently writing, I keep changing lots of things, and I need to re-write quite a bit of it. So how do I gain the courage to allow these two good friends to see into the part of me that I usually keep locked away and hidden? I don't know. But I think they will provide a good impetus for me to get writing. I love to write, I really do. I get sucked into stories and have a hard time coming out. It is relaxing and enjoyable, and invigorating at the same time. I just need help getting things finished. So, this writing group could be perfect.
Updates to come . . .
Anyway, today in church, one of my good friends cornered me and asked if I would like to join in a writing group she wanted to start. She had been working on a book, and another of our friends has also been writing one. I hesitantly revealed that I am also working on a book (as usual, I am almost always working on a book . . . ask me how many I've finished). So we all agreed to form this writing group and get together to offer suggestions and constructive criticism.
Here's the problem: I am really self-conscious about my writing. There are only a few people scattered throughout my past that have been allowed to read anything I've written. Although I do want to be published, I have a hard time allowing other people to see things in rough form. Also, for the book I'm currently writing, I keep changing lots of things, and I need to re-write quite a bit of it. So how do I gain the courage to allow these two good friends to see into the part of me that I usually keep locked away and hidden? I don't know. But I think they will provide a good impetus for me to get writing. I love to write, I really do. I get sucked into stories and have a hard time coming out. It is relaxing and enjoyable, and invigorating at the same time. I just need help getting things finished. So, this writing group could be perfect.
Updates to come . . .
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Poetry
Today I have an obsession with poetry. I particularly have been enjoying works by my favorite poet, Alfred, Lord Tennyson. I have already put some of this on Facebook, but I want to quote from one of my favorite poems here. This is from In Memoriam, A.H.H., which is an extremely long poem Lord Tennyson wrote about his friend Arthur. There are 131 sections, but I will just quote a few.
54:
Oh yet we trust that somehow good
Will be the final goal of ill,
To pangs of nature, sins of will,
Defects of doubt, and taints of blood;
That nothing walks with aimless feet;
That not one life shall be destroy'd,
Or cast as rubbish to the void,
When God hath made the pile complete;
That not a worm is cloven in vain;
That not a moth with vain desire
Is shrivell'd in a fruitless fire,
Or but subserves another's gain.
Behold, we know not anything;
I can but trust that good shall fall
At last--far off-- at last, to all
And every winter change to spring.
So runs my dream: but what am I?
An infant crying in the night:
An infant crying for the light:
And with no language but a cry.
59.
O Sorrow, wilt thou live with me
No casual mistress, but a wife,
My bosom-friend and half of life;
As I confess it needs must be;
O Sorrow, wilt thou rule my blood,
Be sometimes lovely like a bride,
And put thy harsher moods aside,
If thou wilt have me wise and good.
My centred passion cannot move,
Nor will it lessen from to-day;
But I'll have leave at times to play
As with the creature of my love;
And set thee forth, for thou are mine,
With so much hope for years to come,
That, howsoe'er I know thee, some
Could hardly tell what name were thine.
67.
When on my bed the moonlight falls,
I know that in they place of rest
By that broad water of the west,
There comes a glory on the walls;
Thy marble bright in dark appears,
As slowly steals a silver flame
Along the letters of thy name,
And o'er the number of thy years.
The mystic glory swims away;
From off my bed the moonlight dies;
And closing eaves of wearied eyes
I sleep till dusk is dipt in gray:
And then I know the mist is drawn
A lucid veil from coast to coast,
And in the dark church like a ghost
Thy tablet glimmers to the dawn.
Isn't that beautiful? I love this poetry. I could go on and on, but I will spare the rest of you. Enjoy!
54:
Oh yet we trust that somehow good
Will be the final goal of ill,
To pangs of nature, sins of will,
Defects of doubt, and taints of blood;
That nothing walks with aimless feet;
That not one life shall be destroy'd,
Or cast as rubbish to the void,
When God hath made the pile complete;
That not a worm is cloven in vain;
That not a moth with vain desire
Is shrivell'd in a fruitless fire,
Or but subserves another's gain.
Behold, we know not anything;
I can but trust that good shall fall
At last--far off-- at last, to all
And every winter change to spring.
So runs my dream: but what am I?
An infant crying in the night:
An infant crying for the light:
And with no language but a cry.
59.
O Sorrow, wilt thou live with me
No casual mistress, but a wife,
My bosom-friend and half of life;
As I confess it needs must be;
O Sorrow, wilt thou rule my blood,
Be sometimes lovely like a bride,
And put thy harsher moods aside,
If thou wilt have me wise and good.
My centred passion cannot move,
Nor will it lessen from to-day;
But I'll have leave at times to play
As with the creature of my love;
And set thee forth, for thou are mine,
With so much hope for years to come,
That, howsoe'er I know thee, some
Could hardly tell what name were thine.
67.
When on my bed the moonlight falls,
I know that in they place of rest
By that broad water of the west,
There comes a glory on the walls;
Thy marble bright in dark appears,
As slowly steals a silver flame
Along the letters of thy name,
And o'er the number of thy years.
The mystic glory swims away;
From off my bed the moonlight dies;
And closing eaves of wearied eyes
I sleep till dusk is dipt in gray:
And then I know the mist is drawn
A lucid veil from coast to coast,
And in the dark church like a ghost
Thy tablet glimmers to the dawn.
Isn't that beautiful? I love this poetry. I could go on and on, but I will spare the rest of you. Enjoy!
Monday, September 21, 2009
Fish: A Comedy in One Act
The Scene: A Winning Smile Orthdontics, waiting room
The Cast: Diane, Julie, Dr. McDevitt, miscellaneous patient
The Time: present day
Patient: Gross! There's a dead fish in your fish tank!
Julie: Oh no. I'm sorry. We'll take care of that at lunchtime today.
Dr. McDevitt: Diane, fish that dead fish out of the fish tank.
Diane: No, thank you.
Dr. McDevitt: (silence, because she's already left)
Diane: (silence, thinking about the last time she had to fish a dead fish out of the tank)
At lunch time:
Diane (armed with gloves on both hands, several paper towels and a fish scoop): takes lid off fish tank to get out the dead fish. It was difficult to find, as it wasn't in the same place Julie told her it was. Finally finding it, she got into the fish tank up to her elbow and scooped up the fish, dumping it into a cup.
Diane: Eek (upon finding that the fish in the bottom of the cup is still breathing)
Diane: Here you go (putting fish back into the tank; she watches with dismay as it begins to swim . . . upside down and very sickly)
Diane: Julie! This fish is not dead!
Julie: You're right.
Diane calls Dr. McDevitt
Diane: Dr, the fish isn't dead. It looks pretty sick, but it's still breathing.
Dr. McDevitt: Just flush it down the toilet.
Diane: Dr! I can't! I can't kill the fish!
Dr. McDevitt: I'll look at it later.
Later
Dr. McDevitt: Well, Diane, you fish the fish out, and I'll flush it down the toilet.
Diane: Dr, I don't think I can do that.
Dr. McDevitt: Think of it as euthanasia.
Diane: But I don't approve of euthanasia.
Dr. McDevitt: Neither do I.
Julie: You'll be an accessory to murder!
Dr. McDevitt: It will be fine. Just get the fish out.
Diane (armed with gloves on both hands, several paper towels and a fish scoop): takes lid off fish tank to get out the dead fish. It was difficult to find, as it wasn't in the same place as before.
Dr. McDevitt (hysterically laughing): You have a hand glove on, but you're in water up to your elbow! Ha ha!
Diane: Finally finding it, she got into the fish tank up to her elbow and scooped up the fish, dumping it into a cup.
Diane: Here you go, Dr.
Dr. McDevitt: takes fish away.
Diane: It's still breathing.
Julie: Not anymore.
THE END
The Cast: Diane, Julie, Dr. McDevitt, miscellaneous patient
The Time: present day
Patient: Gross! There's a dead fish in your fish tank!
Julie: Oh no. I'm sorry. We'll take care of that at lunchtime today.
Dr. McDevitt: Diane, fish that dead fish out of the fish tank.
Diane: No, thank you.
Dr. McDevitt: (silence, because she's already left)
Diane: (silence, thinking about the last time she had to fish a dead fish out of the tank)
At lunch time:
Diane (armed with gloves on both hands, several paper towels and a fish scoop): takes lid off fish tank to get out the dead fish. It was difficult to find, as it wasn't in the same place Julie told her it was. Finally finding it, she got into the fish tank up to her elbow and scooped up the fish, dumping it into a cup.
Diane: Eek (upon finding that the fish in the bottom of the cup is still breathing)
Diane: Here you go (putting fish back into the tank; she watches with dismay as it begins to swim . . . upside down and very sickly)
Diane: Julie! This fish is not dead!
Julie: You're right.
Diane calls Dr. McDevitt
Diane: Dr, the fish isn't dead. It looks pretty sick, but it's still breathing.
Dr. McDevitt: Just flush it down the toilet.
Diane: Dr! I can't! I can't kill the fish!
Dr. McDevitt: I'll look at it later.
Later
Dr. McDevitt: Well, Diane, you fish the fish out, and I'll flush it down the toilet.
Diane: Dr, I don't think I can do that.
Dr. McDevitt: Think of it as euthanasia.
Diane: But I don't approve of euthanasia.
Dr. McDevitt: Neither do I.
Julie: You'll be an accessory to murder!
Dr. McDevitt: It will be fine. Just get the fish out.
Diane (armed with gloves on both hands, several paper towels and a fish scoop): takes lid off fish tank to get out the dead fish. It was difficult to find, as it wasn't in the same place as before.
Dr. McDevitt (hysterically laughing): You have a hand glove on, but you're in water up to your elbow! Ha ha!
Diane: Finally finding it, she got into the fish tank up to her elbow and scooped up the fish, dumping it into a cup.
Diane: Here you go, Dr.
Dr. McDevitt: takes fish away.
Diane: It's still breathing.
Julie: Not anymore.
THE END
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
It Really is Superior
Yay! A reason to blog!
We spent Labor Day weekend in Minnesota and Wisconsin with Steve's parents and sister. It was so wonderful to see them, as it's been more than a year. We drove all night Thursday night, leaving about 8:30, and got to Wisconsin at 4 in the morning, local time. Then we had to sleep in the car for a couple of hours, waiting for Melinda to wake up. We only got a little time with her, because she had to go to work.
We arrived in Minnesota about 2:00, and I went immediately to bed while Steve talked to his dad. That night, we ate a fabulous dinner and looked at the moon and Jupiter through Dad's telescope. The next day, we drove up to Duluth, MN. It was so beautiful up there. I love forests and mountains, and the lake was spectacular. I got to wade around in it for a few minutes. It wasn't too cold right up next to shore, but there were people swimming in it for some reason. Crazy people.
After my feet were dry, we wandered along the beach and shore of Lake Superior. Then we got back in the car and drove for another hour along the coast to a place called Gooseberry Falls, which features several beautiful waterfalls. Steve and I got to do a little hiking and jumping (across water), and it was great.
After church on Sunday, we left for Wisconsin again. The trip was fine, except we took a wrong turn at Albuquerque and ended up in the Wisconsin Dells. The place was bright and flashy and reminded me of a little Las Vegas, despite being secluded in a bunch of forest. Finally we reached Madison, Wisconsin, and spent the night with Melinda. She fed us a good breakfast the next morning, and we made our final journey home. We took the long way home, through Bloomington, Illinois, instead of Chicago, because there was so much traffic going to Chicago. Oddly, when we stopped in Bloomington for lunch, we remembered that we'd eaten at that exact same spot (well, across the street) on our initial trip to Columbus.
Now it's back to school and work and piano. I much prefer vacations, although I love sleeping in my own bed!
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Ode to Steve
I am seriously unimpressive when it comes to writing on a blog. Almost an entire month with no posts. I don't really have any new pictures, although I will try to get some pictures of the house we are staying in right now. We have been here for more than two weeks, with only a few days left, so I better get some pictures soon.
This has been a pretty productive morning for me. I actually got up before Steve left for work (unfortunately doesn't happen very often on Fridays). I took Newton (the dog we are taking care of at the moment) for a run. It was the first time I've been running outside since we've been in Columbus. There is not really a good place for me to run at our own house, but in the neighborhood we're house-sitting in, there are better places. Then I got ready for the day, including doing my hair (again, doesn't happen very often). I am currently doing some laundry, and I have already been grocery shopping. Now I'm working on my piano class and making lunch.
Yesterday I spent a considerable portion of the day thinking about how much I love Steve. It is amazing to me that we have been married for more than three years. During that time, we have had only one major altercation, and very few serious disagreements. Steve has taught me to play baseball and pool, has stopped me from smuggling food into movie theaters, and taught me about doing regular maintenance on cars and computers. He is the most kind and patient man in the world. He loves kids more than anyone I know, and he is so good with them. Children tend to love Steve without even thinking about it. He is so strong spiritually, always helping me to pull myself together when things are rough. I can always count on him to do what he says he will, and he is always available whenever I or anyone else needs help. I love him so much!
This has been a pretty productive morning for me. I actually got up before Steve left for work (unfortunately doesn't happen very often on Fridays). I took Newton (the dog we are taking care of at the moment) for a run. It was the first time I've been running outside since we've been in Columbus. There is not really a good place for me to run at our own house, but in the neighborhood we're house-sitting in, there are better places. Then I got ready for the day, including doing my hair (again, doesn't happen very often). I am currently doing some laundry, and I have already been grocery shopping. Now I'm working on my piano class and making lunch.
Yesterday I spent a considerable portion of the day thinking about how much I love Steve. It is amazing to me that we have been married for more than three years. During that time, we have had only one major altercation, and very few serious disagreements. Steve has taught me to play baseball and pool, has stopped me from smuggling food into movie theaters, and taught me about doing regular maintenance on cars and computers. He is the most kind and patient man in the world. He loves kids more than anyone I know, and he is so good with them. Children tend to love Steve without even thinking about it. He is so strong spiritually, always helping me to pull myself together when things are rough. I can always count on him to do what he says he will, and he is always available whenever I or anyone else needs help. I love him so much!
Monday, July 27, 2009
Updated A-Z Reading Challenge List
A- The Age of Innocence, by Edith Wharton
B- The Battle of the Labyrinth, by Rick Riordan - Completed
C- City of Embers, by Jeanne DuPrau - Completed
D-
E- Ethan Frome, by Edith Wharton
F- Funny in Farsi, by Firoozeh Dumas (recommended by Beth Lybbert) -Completed
G- The Great Gatsby, by F. Scott Fitzgerald
H- The Holy Bible, King James Version
I- Igraine the Brave, by Cornelia Funke - completed
J- Jane Eyre, by Charlotte Bronte
K- Kids Say the Darndest Things, by Bill Cosby - Completed
L- Les Miserables, by Victor Hugo
M- Mansfield Park, by Jane Austen - Completed
N- Nemesis, by Agatha Christie - Completed
O- The Once and Future King, by T.H. White
P- Peter and the Starcatchers, by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson - Completed
Q-
R- Run Silent, Run Deep, by Edward Beach - Completed
S- The Screwtape Letters, by C.S. Lewis - Completed
T- Tomorrow's Dream, by Janette Oke - Completed
U- The Universe Between, by Alan Nourse - Completed
V- Vanity Fair, by William Thackeray
W- Witch World, by Andre Norton
X-
Y-
Z- The Zookeeper's Wife, by Diane Ackerman
B- The Battle of the Labyrinth, by Rick Riordan - Completed
C- City of Embers, by Jeanne DuPrau - Completed
D-
E- Ethan Frome, by Edith Wharton
F- Funny in Farsi, by Firoozeh Dumas (recommended by Beth Lybbert) -Completed
G- The Great Gatsby, by F. Scott Fitzgerald
H- The Holy Bible, King James Version
I- Igraine the Brave, by Cornelia Funke - completed
J- Jane Eyre, by Charlotte Bronte
K- Kids Say the Darndest Things, by Bill Cosby - Completed
L- Les Miserables, by Victor Hugo
M- Mansfield Park, by Jane Austen - Completed
N- Nemesis, by Agatha Christie - Completed
O- The Once and Future King, by T.H. White
P- Peter and the Starcatchers, by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson - Completed
Q-
R- Run Silent, Run Deep, by Edward Beach - Completed
S- The Screwtape Letters, by C.S. Lewis - Completed
T- Tomorrow's Dream, by Janette Oke - Completed
U- The Universe Between, by Alan Nourse - Completed
V- Vanity Fair, by William Thackeray
W- Witch World, by Andre Norton
X-
Y-
Z- The Zookeeper's Wife, by Diane Ackerman
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Learning
Something I have had on my mind a lot is the lack of education and learning I am receiving right now. I'll admit, it has been very difficult for me to not be in school. I often feel like my brain is atrophying, which is a very uncomfortable thought for someone like me, who has always loved to learn. I did apply to go back to school to work on a master's in English, but I was not accepted at this time. So I often spend time wondering what I can do now to keep my brain in functioning form. I did more things after I finished school, including some Old English translations and reading of some classics I'd never gotten around to while I was in school.
But it's been more than a year now since I graduated from ISU, and I need something more to do with my brain.
It's for that reason that I have undertaken my A-Z Reading Challenge. I have a list of twenty-six books (actually about twenty-one, as my list isn't complete yet) that I am going to try to finish before the end of the year. Of course, it would be a lot easier if I wasn't also reading many other books at the same time. I can't help it! Everything is so interesting! Anyway, I am excited to have a goal, something to require my brain to read more than Twilight or the Mitford books.
But I don't think this is enough of a goal for me. I am contemplating trying out some other subjects, like philosophy or math. My question is, how do you keep your brain striving after something when you're out in the real world? What goals do you try for, or what activities do you engage in that keep your brain moving? I could use any suggestions.
I am going to re-post my A-Z Reading Challenge as well, in case anyone has any further suggestions. I have tried to incorporate some of the suggestions already given. Now I am more curious about what other things people do to keep learning.
But it's been more than a year now since I graduated from ISU, and I need something more to do with my brain.
It's for that reason that I have undertaken my A-Z Reading Challenge. I have a list of twenty-six books (actually about twenty-one, as my list isn't complete yet) that I am going to try to finish before the end of the year. Of course, it would be a lot easier if I wasn't also reading many other books at the same time. I can't help it! Everything is so interesting! Anyway, I am excited to have a goal, something to require my brain to read more than Twilight or the Mitford books.
But I don't think this is enough of a goal for me. I am contemplating trying out some other subjects, like philosophy or math. My question is, how do you keep your brain striving after something when you're out in the real world? What goals do you try for, or what activities do you engage in that keep your brain moving? I could use any suggestions.
I am going to re-post my A-Z Reading Challenge as well, in case anyone has any further suggestions. I have tried to incorporate some of the suggestions already given. Now I am more curious about what other things people do to keep learning.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Holiday (Sorry this is so late)
Here are a few pictures from our recent holiday to Utah and Idaho. Sorry it's taken us so long to get them up.
We had such a great time on vacation. The two hour time difference was a struggle for a few days, but we eventually got used to it (by staying up way too late). I got my fill of playing games, including Nerts, Farming Game, Milles Bornes, Pit, and Go Fish. Hopefully that will satisfy me for another year. And we got to see almost all of mine and Steve's siblings. It was so much fun to spend time with everyone. We only regretted that we didn't have enough time to spend several days with each family.
One thing you will notice about this blog is that there aren't very many pictures. Somehow, we didn't take pictures of many of the people we saw and spent time with. Sorry, everyone. Regardless of whether we have a picture of you, we loved seeing everyone! That includes Nadine and her kids, including Melissa, Nic, Derek and Amanda, and Aimee, Faith, Tyler and Jordon. Gary and Sarah and their four wonderful kids. My fabulous parents, whom I love very much. Steve (I have added Viva La Vida to my playlist, by the way). Shannon, who played games with me. Jason and Kiley and their little beautiful boys. Chris and Angie, now parents of two. Andy and Kim. The Hebdons. Thanks for everything, everyone. We appreciated your hospitality and kindness. We love you all!
Cat tails near Shoshone Falls.
That is Shoshone Falls behind us. It was very full, and beautiful.
Shoshone Falls.
Cows!
Steve next to the truck we drove. He was a better driver in this particular vehicle. We enjoyed helping my dad around the farm for a couple days, although I did break his tractor. Sorry, Dad.
Me standing next to a tractor, which both Steve and I learned to drive.
My little funky-chicken-mobile. I drove this car for years. It runs better now than it did when I drove it, although it is still pretty funky.
My beautiful sister and her youngest, Annie.
Nichole's unique talent.
A cute little waterfall up Logan Canyon.
Me standing in front of a creek in Logan, Utah. The water is so clear you can hardly tell it is water.
This is Steve and I standing in front of a mountain.
Steve next to my wonderful father's (very dirty) truck.
Mountains!
Nichole and Justin Cullumber, not fitting into a cart. Aren't they great?
We had such a great time on vacation. The two hour time difference was a struggle for a few days, but we eventually got used to it (by staying up way too late). I got my fill of playing games, including Nerts, Farming Game, Milles Bornes, Pit, and Go Fish. Hopefully that will satisfy me for another year. And we got to see almost all of mine and Steve's siblings. It was so much fun to spend time with everyone. We only regretted that we didn't have enough time to spend several days with each family.
One thing you will notice about this blog is that there aren't very many pictures. Somehow, we didn't take pictures of many of the people we saw and spent time with. Sorry, everyone. Regardless of whether we have a picture of you, we loved seeing everyone! That includes Nadine and her kids, including Melissa, Nic, Derek and Amanda, and Aimee, Faith, Tyler and Jordon. Gary and Sarah and their four wonderful kids. My fabulous parents, whom I love very much. Steve (I have added Viva La Vida to my playlist, by the way). Shannon, who played games with me. Jason and Kiley and their little beautiful boys. Chris and Angie, now parents of two. Andy and Kim. The Hebdons. Thanks for everything, everyone. We appreciated your hospitality and kindness. We love you all!
Cat tails near Shoshone Falls.
That is Shoshone Falls behind us. It was very full, and beautiful.
Shoshone Falls.
Cows!
Steve next to the truck we drove. He was a better driver in this particular vehicle. We enjoyed helping my dad around the farm for a couple days, although I did break his tractor. Sorry, Dad.
Me standing next to a tractor, which both Steve and I learned to drive.
My little funky-chicken-mobile. I drove this car for years. It runs better now than it did when I drove it, although it is still pretty funky.
My beautiful sister and her youngest, Annie.
Nichole's unique talent.
A cute little waterfall up Logan Canyon.
Me standing in front of a creek in Logan, Utah. The water is so clear you can hardly tell it is water.
This is Steve and I standing in front of a mountain.
Steve next to my wonderful father's (very dirty) truck.
Mountains!
Nichole and Justin Cullumber, not fitting into a cart. Aren't they great? Sunday, June 21, 2009
A to Z Reading Challenge
It's not like I really need anything more to read. I read more than anyone else I know, and yet I always find more things. But I am going to try this anyway.
The idea is to take a book starting with each letter of the alphabet, for 26 books in total. Or author's names, but I'm going to use book titles. I may add author's names in the future, because that will give me more to read,but at the moment, 26 seems like enough. I have already thought of a few, but I could use any suggestions. I am not real picky about genre, as I like to read all sorts of things. However, I do prefer books that are G or PG. GIGO, y'know. Anyway, I'd love to hear your suggestions, or we can trade titles if anyone else desires to do this with me. I'll let you know how it's going!
A-
The Age of Innocence, by Edith Wharton
B-
The Battle of the Labyrinth, by Rick Riordan - completed
C-
City of Embers, by Jeanne DuPrau - completed
D-
E-
Ethan Frome, by Edith Wharton
F-
Funny in Farsi, by Firoozeh Dumas (recommended by Beth Lybbert)
G-
The Great Gatsby, by F. Scott Fitzgerald
H-
The Holy Bible, King James Version - completed
I-
Igraine the Brave, by Cornelia Funke - completed
J-
Jane Eyre, by Charlotte Bronte
K-
Kids Say the Darndest Things, by Bill Cosby - Completed
L-
Les Miserables, by Victor Hugo
M-
Mansfield Park, by Jane Austen - completed
N-
Nemesis, by Agatha Christie
O-
The Once and Future King, by T.H. White
P-
Peter and the Starcatchers, by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson
Q-
R-
Run Silent, Run Deep, by Edward Beach - Completed
S-
The Screwtape Letters, by C.S. Lewis - Completed
T-
Tomorrow's Dream, by Janette Oke - Completed
U-
The Universe Between, by Alan Nourse - Completed
V-
Vanity Fair, by William Thackeray
W-
Witch World, by Andre Norton
X-
Y-
Z-
The Zookeeper's Wife, by Diane Ackerman
I will post more as I come up with more titles. There are several things I'd like to add, like War and Peace, but I'm not sure I have the literary stamina for it anymore. Perhaps I'll try. I also would like to add some good non-fiction, but I'm a little scared of it. Any suggestions?
The idea is to take a book starting with each letter of the alphabet, for 26 books in total. Or author's names, but I'm going to use book titles. I may add author's names in the future, because that will give me more to read,but at the moment, 26 seems like enough. I have already thought of a few, but I could use any suggestions. I am not real picky about genre, as I like to read all sorts of things. However, I do prefer books that are G or PG. GIGO, y'know. Anyway, I'd love to hear your suggestions, or we can trade titles if anyone else desires to do this with me. I'll let you know how it's going!
A-
The Age of Innocence, by Edith Wharton
B-
The Battle of the Labyrinth, by Rick Riordan - completed
C-
City of Embers, by Jeanne DuPrau - completed
D-
E-
Ethan Frome, by Edith Wharton
F-
Funny in Farsi, by Firoozeh Dumas (recommended by Beth Lybbert)
G-
The Great Gatsby, by F. Scott Fitzgerald
H-
The Holy Bible, King James Version - completed
I-
Igraine the Brave, by Cornelia Funke - completed
J-
Jane Eyre, by Charlotte Bronte
K-
Kids Say the Darndest Things, by Bill Cosby - Completed
L-
Les Miserables, by Victor Hugo
M-
Mansfield Park, by Jane Austen - completed
N-
Nemesis, by Agatha Christie
O-
The Once and Future King, by T.H. White
P-
Peter and the Starcatchers, by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson
Q-
R-
Run Silent, Run Deep, by Edward Beach - Completed
S-
The Screwtape Letters, by C.S. Lewis - Completed
T-
Tomorrow's Dream, by Janette Oke - Completed
U-
The Universe Between, by Alan Nourse - Completed
V-
Vanity Fair, by William Thackeray
W-
Witch World, by Andre Norton
X-
Y-
Z-
The Zookeeper's Wife, by Diane Ackerman
I will post more as I come up with more titles. There are several things I'd like to add, like War and Peace, but I'm not sure I have the literary stamina for it anymore. Perhaps I'll try. I also would like to add some good non-fiction, but I'm a little scared of it. Any suggestions?
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Piano Recital and More
For people who live comparatively quiet lives, Steve and I have had quite a week. On Sunday, we had two wonderful couples from our church over for dinner and games. They were a lot of fun, and we enjoyed getting to know them a little better. Monday, we both had to be at work at 8:30. After work and three piano lessons, I came over to the home of Kent and Cassie Barrett. They asked us to house-sit for them while they are out of town this week. Steve went over immediately after he got off work to let the dog out. That night, the missionaries came over with a couple of junior companions to practice giving the first discussion. That was really fun, as I'd never heard it before. Afterwards, Steve and the Elders played pool for several hours. Then we had to go back to our home to grab all our stuff, and I did a load of laundry and played more pool. We got to bed well after midnight, by which time I was exhausted.
Tuesday I worked all day, then came home to do more laundry and try to get some dinner together before my visiting teachers came. After they left, I went to teach one more lesson; then Steve and I played more pool before going to bed after midnight again.
Today was my big day: my year-end piano recital! I did a combined recital with my good friend Nicole Trejo, and it was great. Nicole's students went first. She's a good teacher, and her students all did very well. Then my students went, and I was very pleasantly impressed with them. Some of them I know must have done some good practicing before they came. After all my students, Nicole and I each played a solo. We both did pretty well. It's always nice when you can leave a recital feeling pleased with your own performance; it makes up for the times when you leave ready to cry. I am not teaching again until July 7, and I am pleased to have the break. I love to teach, but it is emotionally exhausting to prepare for a recital and it will be nice to have some time off.
Here is me with all of my students who played. I am missing two who were not able to perform. Aren't they a great looking bunch of musicians? I am so proud of all my students. It's such a rewarding job, to be able to impart the love of high art to more people. At times I feel frustrated when I'm not able to communicate my enthusiasm and knowledge in an effective manner. But when there is an "aha" moment, when they understand something or play something perfectly, that we are able to share in a joy that doesn't come any other way. If any of you have wanted to take lessons but haven't started, please start. Music is one of the greatest gifts God has given us to share His love with us. And if you live in the Columbus area, I might be able to take on another student or two.
I hope to post a video of myself playing in the next few days. Thank you, Kristen!
Tuesday I worked all day, then came home to do more laundry and try to get some dinner together before my visiting teachers came. After they left, I went to teach one more lesson; then Steve and I played more pool before going to bed after midnight again.
Today was my big day: my year-end piano recital! I did a combined recital with my good friend Nicole Trejo, and it was great. Nicole's students went first. She's a good teacher, and her students all did very well. Then my students went, and I was very pleasantly impressed with them. Some of them I know must have done some good practicing before they came. After all my students, Nicole and I each played a solo. We both did pretty well. It's always nice when you can leave a recital feeling pleased with your own performance; it makes up for the times when you leave ready to cry. I am not teaching again until July 7, and I am pleased to have the break. I love to teach, but it is emotionally exhausting to prepare for a recital and it will be nice to have some time off.
Here is me with all of my students who played. I am missing two who were not able to perform. Aren't they a great looking bunch of musicians? I am so proud of all my students. It's such a rewarding job, to be able to impart the love of high art to more people. At times I feel frustrated when I'm not able to communicate my enthusiasm and knowledge in an effective manner. But when there is an "aha" moment, when they understand something or play something perfectly, that we are able to share in a joy that doesn't come any other way. If any of you have wanted to take lessons but haven't started, please start. Music is one of the greatest gifts God has given us to share His love with us. And if you live in the Columbus area, I might be able to take on another student or two.
I hope to post a video of myself playing in the next few days. Thank you, Kristen!
Sunday, June 14, 2009
A Day at the Farm
Yesterday we went on a little drive out to areas southeast of Columbus. We started our excursion at A.W. Marion State Park, where this lovely lake is located. There were a whole bunch of geese hanging out next to the lake, including several very cute goslings.
Next we went to a place called the Living Historical Farm at Slate Run. They run this farm as if it was still 1880, including no electricity, tractors, automobiles, etc. It was pretty cool. The farm house was original to 1850 something, and has been restored. They also had a bunch of animals. We took a bunch of pictures, but here are a few favorites.
Here is Steve next to a gigantic draft horse. They have four of them, and they use them to farm 60 acres of crops, which is a lot, considering their farm equipment is from the 1880's.
Melinda, this rooster is for you, compliments of Steve.
I am standing next to a very old drill, which supposedly they still use to plant crops. They have a whole fence lined with the steel wheels on another part of the farm, so apparently these wheels need to be replaced a lot. There was a lot of other farm equipment, and most of it looked like the stuff we used to play on out in our old pasture.
Here we are at the end of our day, standing in front of one of the covered bridges in Ohio. It is pretty cool, although there is no water underneath it. There are a lot of covered bridges in Ohio, apparently, although we haven't seen very many of them yet. I can't imagine why they needed covered bridges. Maybe some of our Ohio friends can help me out!
Next we went to a place called the Living Historical Farm at Slate Run. They run this farm as if it was still 1880, including no electricity, tractors, automobiles, etc. It was pretty cool. The farm house was original to 1850 something, and has been restored. They also had a bunch of animals. We took a bunch of pictures, but here are a few favorites.
Here is Steve next to a gigantic draft horse. They have four of them, and they use them to farm 60 acres of crops, which is a lot, considering their farm equipment is from the 1880's.Melinda, this rooster is for you, compliments of Steve.I am standing next to a very old drill, which supposedly they still use to plant crops. They have a whole fence lined with the steel wheels on another part of the farm, so apparently these wheels need to be replaced a lot. There was a lot of other farm equipment, and most of it looked like the stuff we used to play on out in our old pasture. Here we are at the end of our day, standing in front of one of the covered bridges in Ohio. It is pretty cool, although there is no water underneath it. There are a lot of covered bridges in Ohio, apparently, although we haven't seen very many of them yet. I can't imagine why they needed covered bridges. Maybe some of our Ohio friends can help me out!Saturday, June 13, 2009
Introducing our family
As all of you know, Steve and I are just Steve and I at the moment. However, we do have one thing we look after, and that is our amazing plant, Caesar. His full name is actually Caesar Side Salad. My mother gave him to us for Christmas in 2006, and I named him Caesar Side Salad to let him know he had no chance for survival. I am not a plant person. I am really not a plant person. I love to look at plants, but they tend to die the moment they come into my keeping. Funny, considering I grew up on a working farm.
When we got him Caesar had just a few leaves and maybe one eight inch tendril. We lived in Pocatello, Idaho, at the time, which didn't help him. The air in Pocatello is very dry. I kept him watered and he stayed on our kitchen table, attracting bugs and dirt, but hey! what we do for our kids. Somehow he stayed alive and kept growing.
When we moved to Columbus, Caesar exploded. The humidity in Ohio is many times what it was in Pocatello, and Caesar definitely approved. Despite getting watered less than the cacti in Arizona, Caesar has flourished until he has been making some attempts to conquer our living room. The kitchen table is now safe, fortunately, because he is bigger than it. Now he sits above our stereo, getting very little sunlight, and is happy as a clam. Or a long plant.
Anyway, from the very beginning we tried to wage pyschological warfare against Caesar. Somehow he has survived the longest odds. Steve asked me this morning when the last time I watered him was, and I was able to truthfully say, only a week ago. Of course, before that the last time was about a month previous.
Anyway, from the very beginning we tried to wage pyschological warfare against Caesar. Somehow he has survived the longest odds. Steve asked me this morning when the last time I watered him was, and I was able to truthfully say, only a week ago. Of course, before that the last time was about a month previous.
To anyone who is like me, unable to care for plants, yet wants something green and leafy in your house, get a plant like Caesar. He is able to withstand nuclear missiles, I suspect, and doesn't require much natural sunlight. And for those of you who are not like me, please don't stage a plant humane society uprising against me. I promise I'll get around to watering him . . . very soon!
Friday, June 12, 2009
Steve and I recently went to a waterfall called Hayden Falls in Columbus. The water was crystal clear at the bottom. Had it not been 8:00 pm and slightly chilly, we probably would have gone wading. It was very beautiful. We don't have pictures of the Indian Run waterfall yet, but soon we will get back over there and take some pictures. It's interesting that there are such beautiful waterfalls in a place that's so flat!
First Post
Well, everybody, I guess I am breaking down and doing the blog thing. I feel a little silly, honestly, but I love reading people's blogs, so I guess I should get on the bandwagon. Of course, this presupposes that I will actually have things to say when I start typing. On Fridays, I work late, so I had time to get all the bills paid and eat lunch before coming to work. I love Fridays because it gives me a little time to myself. I can listen to music that Steve doesn't like, and I don't have to worry about who else is in need of my time. I also get to sleep in.
I have been reading about something called the A-Z challenge for books, and I think I am going to participate in it as soon as I can come up with a whole list of books to read. It has been a long time since I've had a reading goal. At the moment I only read whatever I feel like, and it seems a little lazy to me. Most of you know how abhorrent the idea of being lazy seems to me.
Anyway, this is enough for a first post. At some point I will think of something worthwhile to put on here, and then it may be worth reading.
Love to all!
I have been reading about something called the A-Z challenge for books, and I think I am going to participate in it as soon as I can come up with a whole list of books to read. It has been a long time since I've had a reading goal. At the moment I only read whatever I feel like, and it seems a little lazy to me. Most of you know how abhorrent the idea of being lazy seems to me.
Anyway, this is enough for a first post. At some point I will think of something worthwhile to put on here, and then it may be worth reading.
Love to all!
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