Joy Dare
Three Gifts of His Promises
This dare is difficult for me because I do not know His promises. So, I did a little research, the best I could do with the few minutes left of the evening, and found that promises are plenty. I am revisiting my beliefs and exploring religion/spirituality more in depth for the first time in my grown adult life. I do not want to inadvertently be disrespectful to those who are well versed in the Bible and following of God, so I feel more comfortable answering in terms of promises to myself and my fellow man for the time being.
882. The gift of a happy heart to treat others as I wish to be treated.
883. The gift of easing a mind and heart with a compliment or a helping hand.
884. The lightening of myself when focusing on not worrying, being kind, living in gratitude, putting my best foot forward in all I do.
885. A peaceful night with the girls.
886. Good news from Andy that 2 teams of 10 of his competing students made it through to the finals tomorrow.
887. People having passion for what they do, and witnessing this first hand by watching Andy.
888. Getting to try Indian food today. I have only had Indian food one other time and it was so long ago that today felt like my first introduction. So many new flavors and spices! Delicious.
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Start #1: Gifts 871...
Joy Dare
Three Gifts Entwined
871. My fingers entwined in Andy's as we hold hands at night in bed.
872. My girls arms entwined in mine in many exuberant hugs each day as the moment strikes us all at different times.
873. The lives of those who come and go into my life at just the right times.
874. Reading Ann Voskamp's words that echo my own thoughts of how much can you really fit into a day, for what purpose is it all there, and making time for gratitude.
874. Day three in a row of meditation moments and twists in the morning in an effort to release anxiety and worry.
875. A full refrigerator.
876. A thoughtful coworker who just gifted me a box of scrap booking materials for the girls that she won't use anymore, her recycled issue of Real Simple issue that addresses use of time, budgeting, and as Andy so graciously pointed out to me last night that I missed - being more optimistic;), and a turkey sausage that her boyfriend refuses to eat.
877. Lunch with new, smiling ladies today.
878. Learning lessons from both of my girls today. From Lily - it is okay to give money to friends if that is what you choose to do based on the information you have at the time and it is what you feel in your heart you want/need to do. From Emmy - there is nothing wrong with asking for what you want/need, like asking your sister's first grade teacher during her conference if she has a lollipop you can have. I tried to "correct" both of them today, but in reflecting back on these moments, I see how beautiful they both really are and that I am the one who gets to learn.
879. Resilience - how easily we forgive each other in our household and how quickly we all move on.
880. Help and concern from immediate family.
881. Another great Daisy Girl Scout meeting tonight with Lily: picking up trash at a park; making necklaces out of rocks (repurposing), paper, paint and modge podge (wow, never used this stuff before - so fun!); collecting a donation for tweens at a shelter; singing, and; wishing a positive thought to each person in the circle to close the night.
Three Gifts Entwined
871. My fingers entwined in Andy's as we hold hands at night in bed.
872. My girls arms entwined in mine in many exuberant hugs each day as the moment strikes us all at different times.
873. The lives of those who come and go into my life at just the right times.
874. Reading Ann Voskamp's words that echo my own thoughts of how much can you really fit into a day, for what purpose is it all there, and making time for gratitude.
874. Day three in a row of meditation moments and twists in the morning in an effort to release anxiety and worry.
875. A full refrigerator.
876. A thoughtful coworker who just gifted me a box of scrap booking materials for the girls that she won't use anymore, her recycled issue of Real Simple issue that addresses use of time, budgeting, and as Andy so graciously pointed out to me last night that I missed - being more optimistic;), and a turkey sausage that her boyfriend refuses to eat.
877. Lunch with new, smiling ladies today.
878. Learning lessons from both of my girls today. From Lily - it is okay to give money to friends if that is what you choose to do based on the information you have at the time and it is what you feel in your heart you want/need to do. From Emmy - there is nothing wrong with asking for what you want/need, like asking your sister's first grade teacher during her conference if she has a lollipop you can have. I tried to "correct" both of them today, but in reflecting back on these moments, I see how beautiful they both really are and that I am the one who gets to learn.
879. Resilience - how easily we forgive each other in our household and how quickly we all move on.
880. Help and concern from immediate family.
881. Another great Daisy Girl Scout meeting tonight with Lily: picking up trash at a park; making necklaces out of rocks (repurposing), paper, paint and modge podge (wow, never used this stuff before - so fun!); collecting a donation for tweens at a shelter; singing, and; wishing a positive thought to each person in the circle to close the night.
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Start #1: Gift 870
870. So thankful for Andy in my life. I have been a bear to be with since Sunday (well, Andy may argue that I, in our lifetime together, traverse the miles between bear, bear cub, and back again). Emotions have been coursing through me, roving, not quite sure where they belong yet; some of them are lashed out in hasty words, others are held in - percolating, while still others are jotted down in a notebook at my bedside table. The words that have recently escaped before their time have been based in fear and insecurity, and a fraction of hormone surge.
Andy patiently listens. He watches me while I flail wildly with my words and gestures. He offers suggestions for the things he knows he can help with that we have agreed to partner together on, like our finances. And for things he, like I, don't have answers for, he listens. In the craze of our days, he takes the time to hug, and fills small moments with his love for me and for food: The lone lemon wedge put in a small plastic bag in the bottom of my lunch bag today to add to the leftover homemade chicken soup he made on Sunday - this that I brushed off as unnecessary and a waste of time, to him is to love and to take care. Today, I am grateful to him for these thoughts and gestures, for this patience and softness, for him being my husband, and for the lemon wedge that I forgot to add to my soup so that we could talk about it tonight.
Andy patiently listens. He watches me while I flail wildly with my words and gestures. He offers suggestions for the things he knows he can help with that we have agreed to partner together on, like our finances. And for things he, like I, don't have answers for, he listens. In the craze of our days, he takes the time to hug, and fills small moments with his love for me and for food: The lone lemon wedge put in a small plastic bag in the bottom of my lunch bag today to add to the leftover homemade chicken soup he made on Sunday - this that I brushed off as unnecessary and a waste of time, to him is to love and to take care. Today, I am grateful to him for these thoughts and gestures, for this patience and softness, for him being my husband, and for the lemon wedge that I forgot to add to my soup so that we could talk about it tonight.
Monday, March 26, 2012
Start #1: Gifts 861...
Joy Dare - Dare You!
Three Gifts Redeemed
I feel like there is a much more profound meaning to this word, but I can't quite think in that capacity at this moment, so here's what I have:
861. Coupons!
862. Not in past tense yet, but a certificate for a massage that I have on hand waiting for the perfect moment.
862. A friend's offer for help Andy heal his wrist.
863. Coming around the bend into Sonoran Mountain Ranch after work tonight and seeing almost all at once how the desert is in full bloom here: bursting fuchsia blooms on prickly pear cactus, brilliant orange rods of flowers on yucca, some delicate pink fuzzy flowered bush that I don't know the name of and don't have time to look up right now, and so much more. This beauty was the first thing on my whole drive home that transported my thoughts to the here and now of what lay in front of me.
864. Homemade chicken soup for dinner last night (I forgot to include that one last night).
865. Talks yesterday and today of setting intentions and asking for what we want.
866. Lunch outside with a friend.
867. Reconnecting with family.
868. Waking up early this morning to make time for stretching, meditation, and a load of laundry.
869. Recognizing that my days need to be different, and working to ensure that they are, if even just a little bit at a time.
Three Gifts Redeemed
I feel like there is a much more profound meaning to this word, but I can't quite think in that capacity at this moment, so here's what I have:
861. Coupons!
862. Not in past tense yet, but a certificate for a massage that I have on hand waiting for the perfect moment.
862. A friend's offer for help Andy heal his wrist.
863. Coming around the bend into Sonoran Mountain Ranch after work tonight and seeing almost all at once how the desert is in full bloom here: bursting fuchsia blooms on prickly pear cactus, brilliant orange rods of flowers on yucca, some delicate pink fuzzy flowered bush that I don't know the name of and don't have time to look up right now, and so much more. This beauty was the first thing on my whole drive home that transported my thoughts to the here and now of what lay in front of me.
864. Homemade chicken soup for dinner last night (I forgot to include that one last night).
865. Talks yesterday and today of setting intentions and asking for what we want.
866. Lunch outside with a friend.
867. Reconnecting with family.
868. Waking up early this morning to make time for stretching, meditation, and a load of laundry.
869. Recognizing that my days need to be different, and working to ensure that they are, if even just a little bit at a time.
Sunday, March 25, 2012
Start #1: Gifts 854...
Joy Dare - Dare You!
Three Gifts Almost Gone
854. This miserable bronchitis has almost left my chest.
855. The gift of this very yucky day almost done, and knowing that tomorrow will be a new day.
856. All the sugar in the house in its various forms and temptations is almost gone.
857. Removing Winnie The Pooh from my pillow last night when I climbed into bed as it reminded me that Winnie and Emmy were there snuggling with me yesterday morning.
858. Our neighbor and her daughter stopping by to see if they could whisk the girls off to the park after dinner. This gift gave Andy and I an hour to talk and clean, and the girls a chance to wind down from the day and get to know Audrey and her mom a bit better.
859. Lily handling a lot this weekend. In her sensory driven world, Lily rode a horse while wearing a helmet and enjoyed a fun, but long and hard day, went to a party after, had her first sleepover at a good friend's that same night, went to an Italian fest today, and rode more spinning rides than I can count on both hands (most with the lights and blaring music that accompany). She did such an amazing job today and I'm proud of her for coming so far in her journey. She did tell me when she put her head on her pillow, "Mom, I feel like I'm still spinning." But I think the thrill was worth it;)
860. Getting to end the night talking with my dad on the phone.
Three Gifts Almost Gone
854. This miserable bronchitis has almost left my chest.
855. The gift of this very yucky day almost done, and knowing that tomorrow will be a new day.
856. All the sugar in the house in its various forms and temptations is almost gone.
857. Removing Winnie The Pooh from my pillow last night when I climbed into bed as it reminded me that Winnie and Emmy were there snuggling with me yesterday morning.
858. Our neighbor and her daughter stopping by to see if they could whisk the girls off to the park after dinner. This gift gave Andy and I an hour to talk and clean, and the girls a chance to wind down from the day and get to know Audrey and her mom a bit better.
859. Lily handling a lot this weekend. In her sensory driven world, Lily rode a horse while wearing a helmet and enjoyed a fun, but long and hard day, went to a party after, had her first sleepover at a good friend's that same night, went to an Italian fest today, and rode more spinning rides than I can count on both hands (most with the lights and blaring music that accompany). She did such an amazing job today and I'm proud of her for coming so far in her journey. She did tell me when she put her head on her pillow, "Mom, I feel like I'm still spinning." But I think the thrill was worth it;)
860. Getting to end the night talking with my dad on the phone.
Saturday, March 24, 2012
Start #1: Gifts 845...
Joy Dare - Dare You!
A Gift Sung, A Gift Written, A Gift Painted
845. The many birds I heard singing today as they devoured the fruit of an overgrown pomegranate tree.
846. The raw words, emotions expressed by Ann Voskamp.
847. The 9 horseshoes painted today by Lily and her fellow Daisies at a Girl Scout outing.
848. A fun, beautiful day at Krazy Horse Ranch, Black Canyon City, AZ with an equally fun, beautiful, group of girls.
849. Being surrounded by nature, horses, and sunshine all day today.
850. Witnessing an intimate moment shared between a girl (my Lily) and her horse (for today) Snickers as they said goodbye.
851. Hearing from a dear friend that the time has come for her to be on her own, at the brink of the next chapter in her life. So very excited for her to have arrived at this destination and ready for the next journey.
852. Seeing another friend able to release, a much needed release, in the comfort of good friends.
853. So much quiet in the house, and a gorgeous AZ night, so peaceful that I can hear the crickets chirping outside through the patio screen door.
A Gift Sung, A Gift Written, A Gift Painted
845. The many birds I heard singing today as they devoured the fruit of an overgrown pomegranate tree.
846. The raw words, emotions expressed by Ann Voskamp.
847. The 9 horseshoes painted today by Lily and her fellow Daisies at a Girl Scout outing.
848. A fun, beautiful day at Krazy Horse Ranch, Black Canyon City, AZ with an equally fun, beautiful, group of girls.
849. Being surrounded by nature, horses, and sunshine all day today.
850. Witnessing an intimate moment shared between a girl (my Lily) and her horse (for today) Snickers as they said goodbye.
851. Hearing from a dear friend that the time has come for her to be on her own, at the brink of the next chapter in her life. So very excited for her to have arrived at this destination and ready for the next journey.
852. Seeing another friend able to release, a much needed release, in the comfort of good friends.
853. So much quiet in the house, and a gorgeous AZ night, so peaceful that I can hear the crickets chirping outside through the patio screen door.
Friday, March 23, 2012
Start #1: Gifts 839...
Joy Dare - Dare You!
Three Gifts Spoken
839. The gift of open mic poetry, the art and feeling of spoken word.
840. The gift of our president's art of speech, which I feel is very eloquent.
841. The gift of loved ones' voices - whispers in ears, and voices across miles by phone and Skype.
842. Learning the beautiful meaning, for the first time in my life, of a very beautiful word - Eucharisteo.
843. The gift of healing - so powerful for body and for mind. I feel like I get the chance to start over again, to live closer to what is really important (and figuring out exactly just what is really important).
844. An evening in with Andy and our girls - watching Mamma Mia, laughing, looking at recipes together of delicious things we would like to make, eating ice cream, just being together.
Three Gifts Spoken
839. The gift of open mic poetry, the art and feeling of spoken word.
840. The gift of our president's art of speech, which I feel is very eloquent.
841. The gift of loved ones' voices - whispers in ears, and voices across miles by phone and Skype.
842. Learning the beautiful meaning, for the first time in my life, of a very beautiful word - Eucharisteo.
843. The gift of healing - so powerful for body and for mind. I feel like I get the chance to start over again, to live closer to what is really important (and figuring out exactly just what is really important).
844. An evening in with Andy and our girls - watching Mamma Mia, laughing, looking at recipes together of delicious things we would like to make, eating ice cream, just being together.
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Start #1: Gifts 832...
Joy Dare - Dare You!
Three Gifts Found in Women Today
832. That women see no boundary between what a man can do and what a woman can do.
833. The ability to stop and take the time to nurture amidst the increasing demands of self and society.
834. That with science, openness to change, and acceptance, there are many ways in which a woman can become a mother and that the this choice is hers to make.
835. Thankful for the gift I have received in sickness today - another day home with my girls on their Spring Break.
836. A gift that I received today from the friend I began this 1000 gift journey with: One Thousand Gifts, A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are, Ann Voskamp. Thank you dear friend!
837. An appointment in an hour with my chiropractor to get myself back on my track to health and taking care of myself.
838. Extra time today to rest and to take time for giving thanks.
Three Gifts Found in Women Today
832. That women see no boundary between what a man can do and what a woman can do.
833. The ability to stop and take the time to nurture amidst the increasing demands of self and society.
834. That with science, openness to change, and acceptance, there are many ways in which a woman can become a mother and that the this choice is hers to make.
835. Thankful for the gift I have received in sickness today - another day home with my girls on their Spring Break.
836. A gift that I received today from the friend I began this 1000 gift journey with: One Thousand Gifts, A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are, Ann Voskamp. Thank you dear friend!
837. An appointment in an hour with my chiropractor to get myself back on my track to health and taking care of myself.
838. Extra time today to rest and to take time for giving thanks.
Saturday, March 17, 2012
Start #1: Gifts 820...
Joy Dare - Dare You!
A Gift Turned, A Gift Folded, A Gift Hung
820. A season turned; Winter to Spring, warmth in the air, and flowers blooming everywhere.
821. A gift folded is the many baskets of clean laundry scattered about the floor that get folded by Andy and I together while watching streams of Modern Family.
822. Unique artwork and photos hung on walls of homes I've lived in an visited; makes me feel so at home and filled with life.
823. Surprises. I am so thankful for the joy simultaneously felt by Bumpa, Grammy, Lily, Emmy and I when we surprised Mom and Dad by picking them up at the airport last night.
824. Thankful for how life slows down with company.
825. Our patio, an extension of our living space to share time together on while surrounded by sky and fresh air.
826. Prime people watching at the downtown Irish Fest today, I certainly got a feast.
827. Thankful for more opportunities that test my judgement. Just when I think I have come so far, I am presented with two occasions today when I made snap judgements about people I didn't even know based on one very brief interaction with one, and one simple observation of another. They both helped me realize that I still have a long way to go to non-judgement because neither made me feel very good inside.
828. Fun with the family all piled into one car. Felt so good to be more and more comfortable and goofy as the day went on.
829. A shared meal together.
830. Grammy getting to do story time with both her grandgirls.
831. Hugs from Mom and Dad before bed.
A Gift Turned, A Gift Folded, A Gift Hung
820. A season turned; Winter to Spring, warmth in the air, and flowers blooming everywhere.
821. A gift folded is the many baskets of clean laundry scattered about the floor that get folded by Andy and I together while watching streams of Modern Family.
822. Unique artwork and photos hung on walls of homes I've lived in an visited; makes me feel so at home and filled with life.
823. Surprises. I am so thankful for the joy simultaneously felt by Bumpa, Grammy, Lily, Emmy and I when we surprised Mom and Dad by picking them up at the airport last night.
824. Thankful for how life slows down with company.
825. Our patio, an extension of our living space to share time together on while surrounded by sky and fresh air.
826. Prime people watching at the downtown Irish Fest today, I certainly got a feast.
827. Thankful for more opportunities that test my judgement. Just when I think I have come so far, I am presented with two occasions today when I made snap judgements about people I didn't even know based on one very brief interaction with one, and one simple observation of another. They both helped me realize that I still have a long way to go to non-judgement because neither made me feel very good inside.
828. Fun with the family all piled into one car. Felt so good to be more and more comfortable and goofy as the day went on.
829. A shared meal together.
830. Grammy getting to do story time with both her grandgirls.
831. Hugs from Mom and Dad before bed.
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Start #1: Gifts 811...
Joy Dare - Dare You!
Three Gifts Found in Silence
811. In silence, I relish the sound of Andy's heartbeat when I lay my head on his chest at the end of the night.
812. The gift of peacefulness and stillness born of silence.
813. Hearing things that are otherwise not heard; tonight it was birds singing on an otherwise quiet street, and my breath as I meditated in the last moments of dusk in my car parked outside of the home where Lily's Daisy meeting was.
814. So grateful to Miss Kim and Miss Jean for taking on the challenge of becoming Daisy/Girl Scout leaders for this school year. I loved hearing their perspective, and then Lily's later of this evening's focus: honesty and fairness.
815. Such a beautiful group of girls to hear Lily when she chose for the first time tonight to talk about her sensory feelings with anyone other than her family. From what I understand from Miss Jean and Lily, they heard her expressing her needs, respected her for her difference, thanked her for telling them, asked how they could help, and then acted on her response.
816. Thankful for the gift of seeing our daughter Lily gain confidence in herself and courage in expressing herself and what she feels important.
817. Lily standing up for her friend at school today to another girl who doesn't always seem to have the nicest things to say.
818. Thankful for the gift of Daisy meeting nights. They give Lily and I one-on-one time to share together; it's as if I see her for who she is for the first time since the last meeting - this amazing, grown-up beauty of a girl, both inside and out. I catch glimpses of the woman she may be and it makes me thrilled and proud to be witness to the process.
819. Soundtrack to the delicious movie Chocolat playing softly as I type.
Three Gifts Found in Silence
811. In silence, I relish the sound of Andy's heartbeat when I lay my head on his chest at the end of the night.
812. The gift of peacefulness and stillness born of silence.
813. Hearing things that are otherwise not heard; tonight it was birds singing on an otherwise quiet street, and my breath as I meditated in the last moments of dusk in my car parked outside of the home where Lily's Daisy meeting was.
814. So grateful to Miss Kim and Miss Jean for taking on the challenge of becoming Daisy/Girl Scout leaders for this school year. I loved hearing their perspective, and then Lily's later of this evening's focus: honesty and fairness.
815. Such a beautiful group of girls to hear Lily when she chose for the first time tonight to talk about her sensory feelings with anyone other than her family. From what I understand from Miss Jean and Lily, they heard her expressing her needs, respected her for her difference, thanked her for telling them, asked how they could help, and then acted on her response.
816. Thankful for the gift of seeing our daughter Lily gain confidence in herself and courage in expressing herself and what she feels important.
817. Lily standing up for her friend at school today to another girl who doesn't always seem to have the nicest things to say.
818. Thankful for the gift of Daisy meeting nights. They give Lily and I one-on-one time to share together; it's as if I see her for who she is for the first time since the last meeting - this amazing, grown-up beauty of a girl, both inside and out. I catch glimpses of the woman she may be and it makes me thrilled and proud to be witness to the process.
819. Soundtrack to the delicious movie Chocolat playing softly as I type.
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Start #1: Gifts 801...
Joy Dare - Dare You!Three Gifts Round
801. Fruits in circles: grapes, apples, oranges, melons.
802. Oh's cereal, a bit of a weakness of mine.
803. The invention of the wheel that has made it easy for me to get around town in my car, fly in an airplane after its wheels have left the runway, and that will be on the roller blades and bicycle that are on my wish list:)
804. A gift I forgot to include earlier that is really two in one. My husband's recent self-proclaimed "BA" status, how he's earning it over and over again these days, and how he's not afraid to make sure I know. He took that plumbing in the guest bathroom and showed it who's the boss. So proud of him for researching, taking pictures, comparing prices and knowledge of employees at Lowe's and Home Depot, and made the successful repair so we again have cold and hot water running in that shower - just in time for a visit from Mom and Dad. Whew!
805. A great supervision at work, looking forward to starting the process of PHR (Professional in Human Resource) certification!
806. Andy deciding to try massage therapy/alternative healing first as opposed to surgery, and the gift of having a provider we feel safe with and can afford.
806. A fairly empty grocery store after work tonight that allowed me to take my time and add up item by item to make sure I stay within budget.
807. Our refrigerator that was barren this morning now full with healthy foods!
808. Treats for everyone for our company this weekend. Mom's favorite wine, Hansen's Cherry Vanilla Creme Soda for Dad and the girls, and Oreos for us all:) Yum!
809. Hearing from a friend today, "Life is what you make it. It doesn't come wrapped up in a box with a pretty bow on it - It's what you make it to be."
810. Running my first 2 miles tonight! I never once in my life thought I would ever run two miles. I am so excited and feel exhilarated!
801. Fruits in circles: grapes, apples, oranges, melons.
802. Oh's cereal, a bit of a weakness of mine.
803. The invention of the wheel that has made it easy for me to get around town in my car, fly in an airplane after its wheels have left the runway, and that will be on the roller blades and bicycle that are on my wish list:)
804. A gift I forgot to include earlier that is really two in one. My husband's recent self-proclaimed "BA" status, how he's earning it over and over again these days, and how he's not afraid to make sure I know. He took that plumbing in the guest bathroom and showed it who's the boss. So proud of him for researching, taking pictures, comparing prices and knowledge of employees at Lowe's and Home Depot, and made the successful repair so we again have cold and hot water running in that shower - just in time for a visit from Mom and Dad. Whew!
805. A great supervision at work, looking forward to starting the process of PHR (Professional in Human Resource) certification!
806. Andy deciding to try massage therapy/alternative healing first as opposed to surgery, and the gift of having a provider we feel safe with and can afford.
806. A fairly empty grocery store after work tonight that allowed me to take my time and add up item by item to make sure I stay within budget.
807. Our refrigerator that was barren this morning now full with healthy foods!
808. Treats for everyone for our company this weekend. Mom's favorite wine, Hansen's Cherry Vanilla Creme Soda for Dad and the girls, and Oreos for us all:) Yum!
809. Hearing from a friend today, "Life is what you make it. It doesn't come wrapped up in a box with a pretty bow on it - It's what you make it to be."
810. Running my first 2 miles tonight! I never once in my life thought I would ever run two miles. I am so excited and feel exhilarated!
Monday, March 12, 2012
Start #1: Gifts 796...
Joy Dare - Dare You!
A Gift in Wind, in Water, in White
796. Flying kites in the wind with kids
797. Water that flows freely through so many sources making our lives so very easy, such as the weekend: through a hose in the backyard to wash the dog; through the kitchen faucet to wash the dishes; through the sprinkler system to help things grow and make my digging easier; through the hose in the front yard to wash the car; through the refrigerator water line to drink clean, cold, water; through the washing machine to wash all the sheets and blankets; and through the pipes to the shower and bathtubs to get us all squeaky clean. Bodies of water, especially the ocean - such power, life and peace all wrapped in one. I am grateful that I have had the opportunity in my lifetime to grow up near water, and to live minutes from an ocean.
798. White clouds floating, traveling across the sky; my white wedding dress; crisp, clean white sheets and pillowcases; Andy's white t-shirts Clorox clean; plain white paper that whispers, "Create."
799. Another innovator, pioneer, changing the face of education. Learn about the man behind the vision here, and the direct site is Kahn Academy. I feel grateful to have witnessed such life-changing men in the past couple of days, and the technology that has made both of their missions possible.
800. Pandora Mumford & Sons channel that accompanied most of my chores yesterday.
A Gift in Wind, in Water, in White
796. Flying kites in the wind with kids
797. Water that flows freely through so many sources making our lives so very easy, such as the weekend: through a hose in the backyard to wash the dog; through the kitchen faucet to wash the dishes; through the sprinkler system to help things grow and make my digging easier; through the hose in the front yard to wash the car; through the refrigerator water line to drink clean, cold, water; through the washing machine to wash all the sheets and blankets; and through the pipes to the shower and bathtubs to get us all squeaky clean. Bodies of water, especially the ocean - such power, life and peace all wrapped in one. I am grateful that I have had the opportunity in my lifetime to grow up near water, and to live minutes from an ocean.
798. White clouds floating, traveling across the sky; my white wedding dress; crisp, clean white sheets and pillowcases; Andy's white t-shirts Clorox clean; plain white paper that whispers, "Create."
799. Another innovator, pioneer, changing the face of education. Learn about the man behind the vision here, and the direct site is Kahn Academy. I feel grateful to have witnessed such life-changing men in the past couple of days, and the technology that has made both of their missions possible.
800. Pandora Mumford & Sons channel that accompanied most of my chores yesterday.
Sunday, March 11, 2012
Start #1: Gifts 789...
Joy Dare - Dare You!
Three Gifts Read
These three read in the last three days:
789. Wherever You Go There You Are - Jon Kabat-Zinn, brings me stillness before bed
790. Bear Snores On - Karma Wilson, such fun to read with the girls an a family favorite
791. The Quiltmakers Gift - Jeff Brumbeau, gorgeous watercolors and touching story/powerful message
792. A shared Reiki space, time, laughter, and silence
793. A powerful short documentary and those featured in it who I haven't forgotten since I watched on Saturday www.kony2012.com. It is mind boggling to see the evil that one man alone is capable of and the dichotomy compared to the documentary maker - the good he is capable of generating with his own mind, determination, and one promise to help make one life better, and in turn, tens of thousands of children's lives better, and their families' lives changed forever.
Imagine if in 2012 (part of the goal of this film) the collective consciousness - to help, to create positive change, to eradicate evil, to give a child, all children, a childhood of safety, love, peace and nurturing - infused the planet and all of humanity. What would our world look like then? I read a comment online that someone, or perhaps more than one, doubts that "sharing" or "liking" this film on our world of social media will change anything.
I say, look at this one man who has caused a reaction to spread worldwide, to at least watch and listen. From the website: Thank you to all who are supporting this movement for justice. 324,942 notes - 6 March 2012 Whether you are one who has been spurred to action or not, I believe that by just watching the film strikes a chord that resonates as energy, the very energy that our world is comprised of. This energy alone has the capability to initiate change. I also believe that if the thought is there - if someone is moved emotionally by this film and thinks, perhaps, that life should be better, must be better, for the Invisible Children and their families - that this thought is capable of contributing to the positive energy of the movement to aid the many who are on the front lines fighting for this cause.
794. When thinking of this in terms of giving thanks, how does anything really compare? How can I possibly express the gratitude for the life I have and live when seeing a reality of what I could have - what is real for far too many? I am grateful that I will go to sleep in my house, in my bed, under my covers, next to my spouse - the love of my life, with the peace of knowing my daughters are both asleep in their beds, under their covers, tucked in tight with their favorite stuffed animals, safe to dream the dreams that three and seven-year-olds deserve, and not live with the fear in my every breath worrying if we will all still be together, safe, come morning.
795. I am ever so grateful for the basic necessities: water, shelter, food, clothing, love
Three Gifts Read
These three read in the last three days:
789. Wherever You Go There You Are - Jon Kabat-Zinn, brings me stillness before bed
790. Bear Snores On - Karma Wilson, such fun to read with the girls an a family favorite
791. The Quiltmakers Gift - Jeff Brumbeau, gorgeous watercolors and touching story/powerful message
792. A shared Reiki space, time, laughter, and silence
793. A powerful short documentary and those featured in it who I haven't forgotten since I watched on Saturday www.kony2012.com. It is mind boggling to see the evil that one man alone is capable of and the dichotomy compared to the documentary maker - the good he is capable of generating with his own mind, determination, and one promise to help make one life better, and in turn, tens of thousands of children's lives better, and their families' lives changed forever.
Imagine if in 2012 (part of the goal of this film) the collective consciousness - to help, to create positive change, to eradicate evil, to give a child, all children, a childhood of safety, love, peace and nurturing - infused the planet and all of humanity. What would our world look like then? I read a comment online that someone, or perhaps more than one, doubts that "sharing" or "liking" this film on our world of social media will change anything.
I say, look at this one man who has caused a reaction to spread worldwide, to at least watch and listen. From the website: Thank you to all who are supporting this movement for justice. 324,942 notes - 6 March 2012 Whether you are one who has been spurred to action or not, I believe that by just watching the film strikes a chord that resonates as energy, the very energy that our world is comprised of. This energy alone has the capability to initiate change. I also believe that if the thought is there - if someone is moved emotionally by this film and thinks, perhaps, that life should be better, must be better, for the Invisible Children and their families - that this thought is capable of contributing to the positive energy of the movement to aid the many who are on the front lines fighting for this cause.
794. When thinking of this in terms of giving thanks, how does anything really compare? How can I possibly express the gratitude for the life I have and live when seeing a reality of what I could have - what is real for far too many? I am grateful that I will go to sleep in my house, in my bed, under my covers, next to my spouse - the love of my life, with the peace of knowing my daughters are both asleep in their beds, under their covers, tucked in tight with their favorite stuffed animals, safe to dream the dreams that three and seven-year-olds deserve, and not live with the fear in my every breath worrying if we will all still be together, safe, come morning.
795. I am ever so grateful for the basic necessities: water, shelter, food, clothing, love
Thursday, March 8, 2012
Start #1: Gifts 779...
Joy Dare - Dare You!
Three Gifts Loud
779. My voice singing in the car on my drive to and from work.
780. My daughters' voices singing in the care on our drive to and from school.
781. Emmy screaming in the backyard this afternoon just because she can.
782. Being thanked for the "sanitary and efficient" way that I pick other people's paper towel pieces up off the floor in the restroom at work with another paper towel. What a thing to be noticed for, but the thank you email this person sent to me opened up a beautiful exchange and story that she shared with me for appreciating the "little things". Cheers to feeling thrilled with the little things and to noticing many more of them.
783. Another beautiful message today in a phone call with someone very special to me: Nobody can take away the beauty of you and all that makes you uniquely you and beautiful. This is the one thing you have sole control over in life, and it is a gift for others to be privileged to share. Not an exact quote, but hopefully I captured the essence, because it brought tears to my eyes as she spoke.
784. So grateful for my teeth - that I still have them all, that they help me smile, eat, and talk. Coming to terms with needing some repairs, but I do still have them - have them all.
785. A walk with Lily after dinner to count desert trees (palo verde), cactus (saguaro, barrel, prickly pear, ocotillo), bird nests, and one lizard. Thank you Mrs. Worthington for this enjoyable homework assignment that gave us time together at sunset to enjoy our natural surroundings and each other.
786. Andy and I working on showing people how we want to be treated. We are important too.
787. Grateful that I am not a survivor of physical abuse, and that my children can say the same. If only every child out there could hold that truth in their heart. I am thankful to the many who work to prevent child abuse.
788. Thankful for the extra sleep I will get tonight when I go to bed shortly.
Three Gifts Loud
779. My voice singing in the car on my drive to and from work.
780. My daughters' voices singing in the care on our drive to and from school.
781. Emmy screaming in the backyard this afternoon just because she can.
782. Being thanked for the "sanitary and efficient" way that I pick other people's paper towel pieces up off the floor in the restroom at work with another paper towel. What a thing to be noticed for, but the thank you email this person sent to me opened up a beautiful exchange and story that she shared with me for appreciating the "little things". Cheers to feeling thrilled with the little things and to noticing many more of them.
783. Another beautiful message today in a phone call with someone very special to me: Nobody can take away the beauty of you and all that makes you uniquely you and beautiful. This is the one thing you have sole control over in life, and it is a gift for others to be privileged to share. Not an exact quote, but hopefully I captured the essence, because it brought tears to my eyes as she spoke.
784. So grateful for my teeth - that I still have them all, that they help me smile, eat, and talk. Coming to terms with needing some repairs, but I do still have them - have them all.
785. A walk with Lily after dinner to count desert trees (palo verde), cactus (saguaro, barrel, prickly pear, ocotillo), bird nests, and one lizard. Thank you Mrs. Worthington for this enjoyable homework assignment that gave us time together at sunset to enjoy our natural surroundings and each other.
786. Andy and I working on showing people how we want to be treated. We are important too.
787. Grateful that I am not a survivor of physical abuse, and that my children can say the same. If only every child out there could hold that truth in their heart. I am thankful to the many who work to prevent child abuse.
788. Thankful for the extra sleep I will get tonight when I go to bed shortly.
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Start #1: Gifts 762...
762. Thank you dear friend for sharing the Joy Dare that I'm adding starting today. Here's the link if you would like to add the Joy Dare to your daily gifts... Joy Dare
Joy Dare, March 7 - Three Gifts in the Kitchen
763. Emmy's clothes strewn across the kitchen floor where she often strips down after school to change into a dance/princess dress. The trail starts at the threshold of the kitchen and ends in front of the kitchen counters where either Andy or I are getting dinner ready and she stops in for help to close up the back of her dress.
764. How uncluttered and put together I feel after the kitchen is cleaned up for the night, lunches are made and put in the fridge for the next day, and the over-counter lights are dimmed.
765. Grateful for Andy and I stopping to talk tonight in the kitchen while making lunches and prepping tomorrow's crock pot dinner; Andy sitting on the crux of the kitchen counter swinging his legs to and fro and I propped on our multi-purpose Ikea stool that I don't know what we would all do without, petting Molly as Andy and I talked about our future.
766. Cake pops yesterday, baklava today, and my sweet tooth in moderation:)
767. A picture is worth a thousand words, but in this case, just one for me for right now: Love
768. Surviving another late-night, late into the month budget session together. Not as late into the month as last time, and for this we are grateful.
769. Having money in the budget this month to cover unexpected dental work and car repairs.
770. 11-year engagement anniversary, remembering when it all began.
771. Getting my ring back from our favorite Flagstaff jeweler today. When Andy pulled it out of his pocket and gave it to me as he told the story of his conversation with Jeff, I felt like I was getting engaged all over again - giddy, and arms thrown around each other in embrace.
772. Arriving to work safely after a long drive way too early in the morning after getting way too little sleep the night before.
773. Inspiration from a friend to stay the course just when I needed it.
774. Opportunity.
775. Sending the CEO something I drafted today for approval before I sent it out and getting this response: Love it!
776. The most AMAZING tacos I've ever had, made right here in our kitchen tonight: Slow Cooker Pork Tacos. Andy made it in the crock pot, and I served it tonight with corn tortillas, cheddar cheese, the pork, shredded red cabbage, and a squeeze of lime juice. I was too hungry to cut the cilantro.
777. Finding Lily at school at the front office after a mix-up from our normal pick-up today. The time that I was without her for those few moments between the two felt like an eternity.
778. Reading in bed for a few minutes before turning out the light. It is such a great unwinder for me and I am so grateful for starting to do this again, even if I am a few blinks from slumber.
Joy Dare, March 7 - Three Gifts in the Kitchen
763. Emmy's clothes strewn across the kitchen floor where she often strips down after school to change into a dance/princess dress. The trail starts at the threshold of the kitchen and ends in front of the kitchen counters where either Andy or I are getting dinner ready and she stops in for help to close up the back of her dress.
764. How uncluttered and put together I feel after the kitchen is cleaned up for the night, lunches are made and put in the fridge for the next day, and the over-counter lights are dimmed.
765. Grateful for Andy and I stopping to talk tonight in the kitchen while making lunches and prepping tomorrow's crock pot dinner; Andy sitting on the crux of the kitchen counter swinging his legs to and fro and I propped on our multi-purpose Ikea stool that I don't know what we would all do without, petting Molly as Andy and I talked about our future.
766. Cake pops yesterday, baklava today, and my sweet tooth in moderation:)
767. A picture is worth a thousand words, but in this case, just one for me for right now: Love
768. Surviving another late-night, late into the month budget session together. Not as late into the month as last time, and for this we are grateful.
769. Having money in the budget this month to cover unexpected dental work and car repairs.
770. 11-year engagement anniversary, remembering when it all began.
771. Getting my ring back from our favorite Flagstaff jeweler today. When Andy pulled it out of his pocket and gave it to me as he told the story of his conversation with Jeff, I felt like I was getting engaged all over again - giddy, and arms thrown around each other in embrace.
772. Arriving to work safely after a long drive way too early in the morning after getting way too little sleep the night before.
773. Inspiration from a friend to stay the course just when I needed it.
774. Opportunity.
775. Sending the CEO something I drafted today for approval before I sent it out and getting this response: Love it!
776. The most AMAZING tacos I've ever had, made right here in our kitchen tonight: Slow Cooker Pork Tacos. Andy made it in the crock pot, and I served it tonight with corn tortillas, cheddar cheese, the pork, shredded red cabbage, and a squeeze of lime juice. I was too hungry to cut the cilantro.
777. Finding Lily at school at the front office after a mix-up from our normal pick-up today. The time that I was without her for those few moments between the two felt like an eternity.
778. Reading in bed for a few minutes before turning out the light. It is such a great unwinder for me and I am so grateful for starting to do this again, even if I am a few blinks from slumber.
Monday, March 5, 2012
Start #1: Gifts 741...
741. Trees along Central Ave growing out of their winter branches, sprouting forth Spring in the bright green of new leaves.
742. Coming home in the evenings or waking up on weekend mornings to a hot air balloon dotted sky. Not sure if I've mentioned that one before, but after three years, it still doesn't get old.
743. Sharing in the joy of showering a baby on the way and his lovely mother. I witnessed such beauty as each guest expressed their heart-felt wishes for baby Ronan to arrive in May.
744. Adults acting like kids while we painted alphabet letters for a new baby's room.
745. Seeing others' homemade arts and crafts - a mother-daughter team of talent - and getting to know them both. Check them out at Besitos Couture. So inspiring to see others' creativity in action.
746. Laughter and wine shared with neighbors.
747. Watching kids focusing their 100 percent concentration on Just Dance 3.
748. Playing in a lush carpet of green grass with my girls - gymnastics, Simon Says, What Time Is It Mr. Fox?
749. Seeing how radiant and angelic my girls look with their golden blonde caramel hair glowing in the late afternoon sun as it flows behind them while running, tumbling and twirling in the grass.
750. Pausing, enjoying a Fat Tire exactly how it should be enjoyed - sitting on a front porch with my face to the sun, soaking up every minute of pleasure and conversation.
751. Chino Bandidos, had to get our fix!
752. The Scottsdale dog show, and seeing how much fun Lily, Emmy and Harlee had getting to greet all dogs big, small, fluffy, shaggy, and everything between.
753. Andy and I being inspired by the documentary Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead. So excited at the potential of a juice fast in our near future!
754. Seeing how hard Lily and Emmy are trying to make positive changes based on all our work together last week. After a difficult week, I feel the transition into positive reinforcement, and how much better of a response this gets from us all!
755. Walking Lily into Bobcat Den this morning to hear a table full of kids yell from across the room, "Wow, Lily! Your robot is so cool! Nice job, Lily! That is so cool! That's better than my brother's robot!" Christy the Robot, who holds books for you so you can read, is quite the invention and concoction of color. We had so much fun making her together with Lily. The look on Lily's face at hearing her peers' comments was imprinted on my heart all day long.
756. Lily and Emmy. What can I say. I feel like I'm having a love affair with them, as if the sun has just come out to dry up the puddles after a week of rain. I love their unique personalities and how beautiful they make them.
757. Sitting on the kitchen floor with Emmy on my lap eating a banana before bed.
758. Watching the self-made videos that Lily recorded on Andy's iPhone at the dentist office today while Andy got his crown. I laughed so hard I had tears pouring down my face. She is hysterical, and I can see her making documentaries or something along those lines (as well as so many other things) in the future.
759. The little bird who has taken up residence on our back patio, perched on the multi-colored lights we have strung. He or she, not sure what gender yet, returns every night to the same place and rests until morning.
760. Sunsets, those shared with special people, or in perfect solitude.
761. Safety.
742. Coming home in the evenings or waking up on weekend mornings to a hot air balloon dotted sky. Not sure if I've mentioned that one before, but after three years, it still doesn't get old.
743. Sharing in the joy of showering a baby on the way and his lovely mother. I witnessed such beauty as each guest expressed their heart-felt wishes for baby Ronan to arrive in May.
744. Adults acting like kids while we painted alphabet letters for a new baby's room.
745. Seeing others' homemade arts and crafts - a mother-daughter team of talent - and getting to know them both. Check them out at Besitos Couture. So inspiring to see others' creativity in action.
746. Laughter and wine shared with neighbors.
747. Watching kids focusing their 100 percent concentration on Just Dance 3.
748. Playing in a lush carpet of green grass with my girls - gymnastics, Simon Says, What Time Is It Mr. Fox?
749. Seeing how radiant and angelic my girls look with their golden blonde caramel hair glowing in the late afternoon sun as it flows behind them while running, tumbling and twirling in the grass.
750. Pausing, enjoying a Fat Tire exactly how it should be enjoyed - sitting on a front porch with my face to the sun, soaking up every minute of pleasure and conversation.
751. Chino Bandidos, had to get our fix!
752. The Scottsdale dog show, and seeing how much fun Lily, Emmy and Harlee had getting to greet all dogs big, small, fluffy, shaggy, and everything between.
753. Andy and I being inspired by the documentary Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead. So excited at the potential of a juice fast in our near future!
754. Seeing how hard Lily and Emmy are trying to make positive changes based on all our work together last week. After a difficult week, I feel the transition into positive reinforcement, and how much better of a response this gets from us all!
755. Walking Lily into Bobcat Den this morning to hear a table full of kids yell from across the room, "Wow, Lily! Your robot is so cool! Nice job, Lily! That is so cool! That's better than my brother's robot!" Christy the Robot, who holds books for you so you can read, is quite the invention and concoction of color. We had so much fun making her together with Lily. The look on Lily's face at hearing her peers' comments was imprinted on my heart all day long.
756. Lily and Emmy. What can I say. I feel like I'm having a love affair with them, as if the sun has just come out to dry up the puddles after a week of rain. I love their unique personalities and how beautiful they make them.
757. Sitting on the kitchen floor with Emmy on my lap eating a banana before bed.
758. Watching the self-made videos that Lily recorded on Andy's iPhone at the dentist office today while Andy got his crown. I laughed so hard I had tears pouring down my face. She is hysterical, and I can see her making documentaries or something along those lines (as well as so many other things) in the future.
759. The little bird who has taken up residence on our back patio, perched on the multi-colored lights we have strung. He or she, not sure what gender yet, returns every night to the same place and rests until morning.
760. Sunsets, those shared with special people, or in perfect solitude.
761. Safety.
Friday, March 2, 2012
Start #1: Gifts 732...
732. The power of Excel, and thankful to an amazing, knowledgeable, personable, wonderful instructor at my training today.
733. Getting to read my Runner's magazine for a few minutes at lunch today, my birthday issue:)
734. Picking Emmy up at school today and seeing all the high school girls who help care for her there so excited to see her after they returned from a field trip. Gives me flashbacks of Lily when she was at COOP. The gamut of relationships our young children build is incredible to me. It is a gift to see these bonds unfold throughout the year.
735. Seeing Andy amidst a sea of his students as they exited the bus from their field trip, and knowing what a difference he's made with his students and for many others for their book drive/community service event today. The power of positive change overshadowed any difficulty we had last night and that lingered this morning.
736. Aunt Mindy, Uncle Donny, and Harlee having Lily bonding time today for her early release day.
737. Watching and helping Lily learn how to roller skate.
738. Investing the time tonight to get organized so I won't feel so cluttered and chaotic in my brain tomorrow (at least, that is my hope!).
739. A clean kitchen counter. Let me repeat that (because it won't last long): a clean kitchen counter.
739. Andy at his mom's for the night
740. So grateful that I went with my gut and watched the movie that called to me tonight on Netflix called Entre Nos. This unsuspecting film gave me appreciation for so much tonight: literacy (and makes me want to go back to volunteering my time with Literacy Volunteers ); a bed to sleep on; walls, curtains, and a roof overhead; knowing where my next meal will come from; safe, stable, employment in a clean environment; my husband and children and their huge capacity for love of me and so many others; a woman's strength; a woman's compassion.
733. Getting to read my Runner's magazine for a few minutes at lunch today, my birthday issue:)
734. Picking Emmy up at school today and seeing all the high school girls who help care for her there so excited to see her after they returned from a field trip. Gives me flashbacks of Lily when she was at COOP. The gamut of relationships our young children build is incredible to me. It is a gift to see these bonds unfold throughout the year.
735. Seeing Andy amidst a sea of his students as they exited the bus from their field trip, and knowing what a difference he's made with his students and for many others for their book drive/community service event today. The power of positive change overshadowed any difficulty we had last night and that lingered this morning.
736. Aunt Mindy, Uncle Donny, and Harlee having Lily bonding time today for her early release day.
737. Watching and helping Lily learn how to roller skate.
738. Investing the time tonight to get organized so I won't feel so cluttered and chaotic in my brain tomorrow (at least, that is my hope!).
739. A clean kitchen counter. Let me repeat that (because it won't last long): a clean kitchen counter.
739. Andy at his mom's for the night
740. So grateful that I went with my gut and watched the movie that called to me tonight on Netflix called Entre Nos. This unsuspecting film gave me appreciation for so much tonight: literacy (and makes me want to go back to volunteering my time with Literacy Volunteers ); a bed to sleep on; walls, curtains, and a roof overhead; knowing where my next meal will come from; safe, stable, employment in a clean environment; my husband and children and their huge capacity for love of me and so many others; a woman's strength; a woman's compassion.
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Start #1: Gifts 724...
724. Busy days filled with questions from others to me, from me to others leads to answers, learning and growth, right?
725. Christy the Robot is coming along nicely.
726. Delicious homemade pizza that Andy and the girls made before I got home late from a long day at work and a long drive home stuck in traffic.
727. Emmy and I finally getting our snuggle in at bedtime after an evening filled with conflict after conflict.
728. Lily having just one more minute of alertness before slumber to put her arm around my neck and tell me she loves me, and answers, "It's okay," after I apologize to her for yet more prior conflict.
729. Thankful that Andy and I are both still here at the end of the night given our conflict this evening, knowing I had a strong urge to be somewhere else, anywhere else, and would bet that he feels the same.
730. Just finishing work for the day.
731. Finding the positive in a difficult day.
725. Christy the Robot is coming along nicely.
726. Delicious homemade pizza that Andy and the girls made before I got home late from a long day at work and a long drive home stuck in traffic.
727. Emmy and I finally getting our snuggle in at bedtime after an evening filled with conflict after conflict.
728. Lily having just one more minute of alertness before slumber to put her arm around my neck and tell me she loves me, and answers, "It's okay," after I apologize to her for yet more prior conflict.
729. Thankful that Andy and I are both still here at the end of the night given our conflict this evening, knowing I had a strong urge to be somewhere else, anywhere else, and would bet that he feels the same.
730. Just finishing work for the day.
731. Finding the positive in a difficult day.
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