1. DODGER TOES.
Now I can't say for sure, but I'm thinkin' that painting my toes Dodger blue and then attending a game helped my favorite team win. It's just a theory. I don't have empirical proof. Yet. We'll see if the magic Dodger toes score a win for my team next time I go.
2. REMUDDLING THE BACKYARD.
It all started innocently enough. You know, throw a little roundup on the weeds, fertilize and re-seed the grass. Easy, right? YEAH RIGHT! The "spruce up the backyard" idea has turned into nothing short of a complete overhaul. I guess I should have expected it. I'm married to a man who firmly believes that if you're going to do it, you'd better do it right. And he's right. Again. Plus, we've had friends volunteer their time and company, the kids have gotten pretty handy with a shovel and the best part? We've saved over $700 by doing it ourselves.
3. HOSPITALITY.
I love making guests feel welcome. Here's what one of my typical "welcome centers" looks like. A basket with travel-size toiletries, nice (not raggedy!) towels, a pitcher with water and glasses plus fresh flowers. I think it makes a warm, gracious welcome, don't you?
4. STAIR CLIMBERS.
Well, the babies are old enough to learn how to navigate the stairs. We've been practicing for a few weeks now. I've taught them how to sit down, flip over and slide down on their bellies–feet first. We practice once or twice each day. Of course, I still keep the gate up and they are not allowed to play on the stairs. I can't believe how fast they are growing up! Waaaaaaaah.
There are a lot of stereotypes about California and L.A. Let me debunk a few: Orange County is NOT L.A. Also, not everyone surfs. But one thing is true: the traffic is just as horrible as you've heard. The last time we drove from the OC to a Dodger game I was literally grinding my teeth in irritation as we crept along @ 5mph on the 110. Still, there are plenty of good reasons to live here. Especially during the "winter."
6. WRITING: a disclaimer, of sorts.
My writing has taken an unexpected direction recently. Part of me really needs to be able to write about my fundamentalist past. I've decided to frame my thoughts in view of how I've recovered/am recovering and how my life has changed since leaving a legalistic church. These posts will not be incident or name specific. So, if you're looking for who/what/where/when you'll probably be disappointed. Mainly, my hope is to put into words the journey I've been on for the past 6.5 years. I'll be dealing with ideas and beliefs more than actual events or people. Lastly, I would love to hear your feedback. Feel free to ask questions or send emails. My hope is that in some small way, something I write will be helpful to someone. After all, the final message of my story is that love and marvelous grace conquer all! I hope you stick around. This should be an interesting ride…..
7. A GREAT BIG THANK YOU!
You know, sometimes blogging is scary. I mess up, I say the wrong thing, it doesn't come out right. I've had to delete posts, hash out my thoughts in the comment box. And yet, I am so touched by those of you who are so kind, loyal and encouraging! WOW. I'm humbled and amazed by the grace you extend to me. Thank you so, so much for the kind words, Tweets and emails. Thank you for reading here. Thank you for caring.
Thanks for putting up with me! ((((hugs))))
And please check out Jen F.'s 7 QT's, too!
