Pieces of Life

It's always nice to wake up in the morning. It means that I am still alive: ready to wrestle and pin down those annoying trifles of life. Well, maybe not ready, per se. But ... able (?). At any rate, I woke up this morning. Enough said.

Saturday evening (around 5 pm), I suddenly felt like vomiting. I didn't vomit (thank goodness!) and the feeling stayed put until 8 pm or so. In the meantime, my head felt fuzzy and explode-ish. Jesse said I had a high fever. Fever make me crazy girl so we went to bed early on a Saturday night. After a restless sleep, I woke up Sunday morn and ta-da: fever was lessened. I'm still not sure what got me because I have no other symptoms. Thankfully, my body appears to be on the mend and I am doubly thankful that I did not give it to anyone else.

My next topic of discussion is all about weather. (Keep reading; weather in Saskatchewan is the most interesting on the planet. Ha!) We've lost friends and acquaintances this winter and several of those losses were a direct result of the weather. Day 1: -50* C. Day 2: -10* C. Day 3: 2*C. Day 4: 1*C. Day 5: -18* C. Freezing, thawing and freezing again leads to melting, storming and freezing roads. This leads to vehicle accidents; often, it seems, the crashes are big truck versus small(er) car. It wasn't the cold weather or the warm weather that bothered me or made road conditions so bad. It was the frequent changes of temperature. The past three days have been steady, however, and I cannot help but feel joyous about the sunshine. This morning at work, I kept mentioning the weather to the customers. The first five all made some remark in true Eeyore spirit: "Well, I just hope it stays this way..." Oh Saskatchewan peoples, you amuse me!

When we first moved into our house, we noticed the office had been leaking. Jesse was concerned about putting his computer into that space for this very reason. However, after covering the computer with plastic for months and never having it leak again, we slowly forgot about the danger and stopped being so cautious. One evening right after Valentine's Day, Jesse got home from work while I was still teaching music... and noticed, to his great dismay, that there was water leaking onto his computer. Upon further inspection, he discovered that his keyboard was directly dripped on and even after many ministrations of drying and putting a million screws back into it (who knew keyboards needed that many implements to hold themselves together!!), only half the keys worked. The circuit board was literally fried. :-P Thankfully, the computer itself was unharmed but it is now covered entirely by plastic bags when not in use.

This is horrible (and not funny at all) but I always giggle in spite of myself: he was putting together dvd of movie clips for the memorial service of a friend (he had to go borrow a keyboard from his parents so he could actually finish the project). By the time he was finished, there were no less than 6 drips dripping all around him. He would be busy working away when suddenly, "Ahhh!! ANOTHER ONE??!" He had bowls sitting everywhere. He would actually have to reach around a bowl to work on his computer. Yeah, imagine that one in your head. As I said: horrible, not funny at all. But such a sketch, eh? Btw, I do find his determination inspiring and my sympathies are with him. I think we need to (1: move the computer. (2: try to figure out where the leak is coming from and why it only leaks there every two years.

Minot was graced with our presence last Monday and Tuesday. We stayed at a hotel, shopped and, most importantly, got Lydia's passport on the roll. Actually, most importantly, we relaxed and had fun. :-) I was a bundle of nerves from living life and needed some down time. We had so much fun. Waterslides, shopping for gifts, buying underwear (that was annoying), eating (hot pretzel bites smothered in melted butter and dipped in sugar cinnamon...), watching a movie... AND I also had two cups of chai.

I love tea and I love chai the best. Add cream and a small dab of sugar to a thick brew of chai and you hold a little bit of heaven in a mug. The world is a better place with a cuppa chai. :-)

On the 16th, we held/attended a memorial service for a good friend of ours. He was part of our theatre group and well loved. We think his life ended much too soon. He did leave a legacy, however. He brought happiness to each life he touched. Because he was an American transplanted into Canada, I was asked to play the anthems for both countries at the service. It was an honor that I will not soon forget. If you think of his family (wife, mother, children, grandchildren...), a prayer for peace and joy to them would be most appreciated. We will never forget you, Dean.

So yeah. Life just keeps moving on. Rapidly. Always good but sometimes the good is really good. (It's been mostly really goods since I met Jesse. :-)) I kept waiting for a moment of inspiration to write but suddenly decided to today was the day I would make my inspiration. Thus, the jumbled thoughts of a certain person who wishes there were more hours in the day. Each moment is a precious gift. I am enjoying mine and I hope you're having great fun with yours!

General Awesomeness

Today I am thankful. There is so much in my life that makes my heart glad. To be honest, I had my "complaining" days lately. During the past week... well, let's just leave it at: I am not a good sick person. :-) However, being a fair-weather person is not something I like to be and when Tuesday rolled around with me feeling like a walking skeleton, I decided to begin a "What I am Thankful For" post; because there are so many reasons to be thankful for in any state of being. This is the completion of that post. It took awhile to evolve. :-)  

I am thankful for God. He is magnificent. He never ends. There is always More of him. He forces me to think for myself and to become a stronger, deeper person. As each day passes, I find myself more entwined with his presence and the excellence of his spirit. In some ways, it is the easiest thing in the world; it also can be incredibly difficult to cast away my fears and embrace Love. But I know that nothing is impossible. There is so much to say about God but I think I will leave it at that.

I am thankful for Jesse. When we first began our relationship, I feared that our love for each other was only a passing fancy. It didn't feel like a passing fancy but how can you know? I learned very quickly that a relationship can only move forward if each has complete faith in the other. Jesse has proven himself in every way possible. He is not perfect but he is perfect for me... and guess what? He says the same about me. Our love grows stronger, deeper, fuller each day. When Jesse asked if we could date, he told me that he felt our meeting and getting to know each other was no accident: we were meant to be together. I believe this with all my heart: God hand-picked us for each other.

I am thankful for our house: it's old; it's meandering; it's home. The kitchen is over a century. Someone who has lived in our neighborhood for 40 years came into the store the other day and I asked him when the renovations took place. He thought for awhile, then he said that they took about 20 - 30 years to complete. I can see why. They are extensive. I love everything about our house... well, minus the leaks in the bedroom and office. Lol. I've been awakened by water dripping on my hand.

I am thankful for my jobs: piano/voice teacher and part-time receptionist at the local Pharmasave. My studio is here at home. I teach 15 students, three days a week. They are the light of my life and the balm of my soul. I love their imperfections, their joys and griefs... I love how each week brings a new challenge in teaching them. I help them and they help me. All of us have become better musicians... not just them. :-) Teaching music and voice has definitely been the most difficult task I have ever undertaken. I think about my students constantly. I plan lessons. I send kids to festival. I advise them to attend The Kenosee Lake Kitchen Party. I study instruction books to see which ones I like or dislike. But it isn't the teaching that is the hardest part. The hardest part is getting to know my students: I care and I get involved. They are all my friends. I respect them and they respect me. It's exhausting but it's the most rewarding, beautiful thing I have ever been involved in. :-)

Pharmasave has been a really great experience. Plus: I have the best bosses, managers and co-workers. Plus: I have learned so much. Downside: standing on concrete for 8 hours a day kills my knees, back, neck, etc, etc. Plus: I really hope to be working there for a few years (or until our kids come along).
 Pharmasave has actually become a second home to me and my coworkers have become second family. They are all like sisters. We vary greatly, we have different problems and we handle our different problems in different ways. But we all have the same goals. I suppose I could admit to Pharmasave being a bit of an exclusive club: if you're really lucky, you get in. ;-) (Actually, if you're a pleasant person who isn't afraid of hard work, we'd probably allow you a membership!)

I am thankful for good health: this morning, I woke up feeling... good. I've been sick for two weeks. Not the kind of sick that has you laying in bed (though there were a few days of that) but the kind of sick that you notice. Lack of energy, headaches, diarrhea, dehydration, etc., etc. The great thing about being sick is how much you enjoy being well afterwards. Lol. Today is one of those days. It's like, "YES! I can teach 7 students today. Bring 'em on!" I am eating healthy and taking walks and drinking lots of water and cranberry juice... ahhh. :-)

Between these things and every small circumstance that makes up my life, I am awesome. God is awesome. The cat is awesome. (Some days.) (I shall write more about him later.)

Life. I shall enjoy it while I have it. :-)

a Post of MaNY ThinGs

[Note: this post contains a series of comments regarding flu symptoms that I knew you would want to read all about. Enjoy!]

Instead of many words, the month of March showed my life in a series of pictures. It was so much fun! I really enjoyed the challenge of finding something unique to take a picture of. Actually, not only unique in subject; shape, composition, angle, size, color and many other things that make up a good photograph made it a good month for me and my camera.

The big question now is: will I decide to take another photo challenge in April? The answer is... I don't know. ;-)

There are a couple reasons I am hesitating but mostly, the problem is that my energy level is way down because of this cold/flu. Sam had it first, then Di; Jesse got it next... and of course, I was the last in line. Jesse was getting well by the time I got it. I don't think I have it as badly as any of the other three. I have no idea about Sam's symptoms, but Di and Jesse were coughing badly, had a fever, no strength whatsoever, etc, etc. They were so sick. There was a day when I thought I was going to have to take Jesse to the hospital. But he started getting better and he is on the tail-end of it now.

As I said, I didn't get it as badly. Part of that is due to my overdosing of oregano oil, vitamin D and ginseng. I don't have the cough, thank goodness! But there is an down side to my version of this: my symptoms seem to come and go as they please. For instance, a week ago Thursday, I started feeling sick. I was sick until Monday night, then I suddenly felt better and was improving until Friday. Suddenly, in the afternoon, my air was cut off. I could not get my throat to open up. I was wheezing and coughing and could not catch my breath. Between Jen and myself, we got it fixed (luckily, I was at work). Saturday, I was feeling much better... even great. Sunday, I was sick all day. All solids and fluids were through me in a flash. I was getting dehydrated. I managed to stop the flow by evening and come morning, there I was: feeling GREAT. All morning, I was feeling awesome. Noon rolled around and suddenly, I was feeling horrible. It felt like I got slugged in the stomach. Stuff was going through me again... I had to leave work at 1 pm and go home. I was so disappointed.

But I have decided that there are a couple ways of dealing with this. I could complain and moan. I could just think about myself. I could ask God, "Why?" Or, I can be thankful for the rest... the chance to read... the ability to write blog posts and share my little universe with people across the world... I can trust that He doeth all things well.... I can be full of faith and love in this very moment... I can rest content in His love for me. I think I'll choose the "Or" option. :-)

...even the very hairs on your head are all numbered... 

Because of the past week or so, I have been able to do a lot of reading. I finished "The Golden Compass" trilogy and "The Hunger Games" trilogy. I found both series to be amazing in their own way. "The Golden Compass" is written from an atheist/agnostic perspective. While I certainly did not agree with some of his theories, I did carefully consider what he had to say. I really enjoyed The Dust. I have had a similar theory for a couple years because I see colors. People, living objects, sounds/tones all have different colors. I feel that these colors come from their souls or spirits. These colors are the equivalent, or at least have similarities to Pullman's Dust. But there is one major difference in our beliefs: I believe God is in Dust or the colors (or whatever you wish to call it). Pullman does not. I believe that God is an Infinite Being with no beginning or end. Pullman teaches... well, the exactly opposite.

I did agree with his view of religion and the Church: both have been the destruction of many souls... snuffing out life after life. Is this to say that The Church is at fault? Partially. But it is up to us, as human beings, to seek out Truth. People can order us about, confiscate, bully, manipulate, try to hide the inside of the tomb or whatever they choose to do. However, I think it is easier to follow orders than to seek our way to God and Truth. When it's just me and God having a chat in eternity, I will not be able to say, "He/she/it made me do that." No, it was MY choice. It was MY choice to sit around helplessly and let people tell me what to do or to learn to walk on my own. It was MY choice to allow the abuse or to stand up for what was right. MY choice to remain in a bad situation or move on. MY choice to react in anger or in love. No one made me do anything. God didn't even make me do anything. He threw open doors, even pushed me a bit. But in the end, it was up to me to make the decision. Such is a scary realization. This is why people do not want to think for themselves: the responsibility of freedom feels threatening. That is why the Church, religion or even our communities and our homes, have so much power. But only because we allow it.

And Jesus answered, I am the way, the truth and the life: no man cometh unto the Father but by me....

Just to clarify, just as I have a right to make decisions means that other human beings do as well. They may hold beliefs that I do not agree with at all. That does not mean that I judge them or do not take them seriously. I change my mind all the time. That means that I used to be wrong or may be wrong now. So, I expect others to have different ideas than I do, or wrong ideas. I respect the learning process... I must admit that I respect it more for having been there so many times myself.

At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes.

The Hunger Games was quite a reading experience. They're brutal. If it had not been for the overlapping theme of Hope, getting through them would have been even more difficult. I don't want to give too much away because I want people everywhere to read these books but I shall allow myself a small comment: You may not enjoy these books but they are worth reading. And PLEASE do not stop after book one... or even book two. Read them all. The story is not complete until the very end.

And where is now my hope?

mOre snaPshoTs

    Jesse asked Sara what his name was. She thought for a moment, then she said,             "I'm Jesse."

Avoiding a skunk waddling across the highway and having my husband still congratulating me on this feat two days later.

Forgetting to bring any night clothing with me on the trip therefore, having to buy new ones at Superstore in Regina. It was a mistake that turned into a good thing: I LOVE them. They are so warm and cozy, I could wear them 24/7. Unfortunately, I can't! (Professional image up-keep.)

Watching Ghost Protocol in the Galaxy theatre and feeling my stomach churn over the tall building with lots of glass part. I think I may have yelped a couple of times.

Going to Boston Pizza and eating at midnight. They have the most delectable Christmas dessert there: Peppermint Brownie Delight. Side note: Jesse and I aren't big fans of peppermint and chocolate mixed together. I mean, come on: two great flavors, why mix them? But the picture of this one was pretty convincing so, we ordered it. Picture this: two hot brownies, two big scoops of vanilla ice-cream (the kind with chunks of vanilla in it), raspberry syrup and chocolate syrup drizzled over, then... the final touch: crushed peppermint candy canes over everything. It. Was. Heavenly.

Our second test of 'in sickness and in health'. Half an hour before we arrived at my parents, Jesse came down with some sort of head cold/flu. His fever was very high, he ached all over, he was shaking and shivering and coughing. At one point, he was so weak that he couldn't even move. I finally got him to take some Advil and that seemed to help keep his fever down. He doesn't often get sick, but when he does, he REALLY does.

Ruth got herself into some trouble for being too noisy while Jesse was trying to sleep. Hannah scolded her soundly for almost waking up her "brother-in-law"... the idea of a five-year-old having a brother-in-law cracks me up. And it gets better: Sara is two.

Exchanging presents at Lindsey's place. She got us several awesome gifts but the one I am going to mention is the SKITTLES!!! Hehe. I love having friends who get you what you want for Christmas.

Sitting in our living room and not having to worry about the mosquitoes. They are finally gone. Good ol' Raid.

Getting the mail and seeing that my new camera had arrived. I am (so, SO!!!) excited about the camera. Jesse is excited about the tripod. And Snow is happy because ...

....he got salmon flavored Kitty Treats for Christmas. (Jesse calls them Cat Crack.) We're good cat owners because we only give him one at a time. Amen.

Celebrating the New Year with my family and many folks from the Endeavour Church. It was a lot of fun and we rang in the tick-tock of Midnight with a rousing chorus of Onward Christian Soldiers. Mainly because I was too exhausted at that point to think of anything else creative.

Jamming with Ellie and Lydia for the first time in months. I actually can't remember the last time we did that. It was good and it brought back pleasant memories of our family band and all the hours we used to practice together. I am glad we were able to bond in this way over the years. Music is magic and it is definitely alive and well.

Eating supper at Brewsters with Sam. This restaurant is also where two dear friends waitress, so between Jesse, Sam, Gillian, Brie and awesome, awesome food, it was a pleasant experience for me. I will be going back there again.

Watching five different movies in two days while in Regina. We watched The Adventures of Tintin, The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, Arthur Christmas, Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol and Sherlock Holmes Game of Shadows. All were brilliant. I definitely want to review each of them for Ponderings. What a treat to be able to go sit in a darkened theatre and watch things come to life on the big screen.

It was -4* C. today. In January. In Saskatchewan. That's really warm. And the snow and ice were all melting and falling off the car. Weather predictions say it's supposed to last all week. ::happy sigh::

Today my husband told me I am prettier than Marilyn Monroe. (In context, it doesn't sound weird. Lol!) It never fails: he makes me feel beautiful, smart and best of all, strong and good. I am really blessed to have such a man.

The best snapshot of the week is simply that God answered my prayers regarding several matters: Jesse and I drew ever closer through this holiday season, the visit with my family went well, Christmas with the in-laws was so good and last, but most certainly not least, Jesse is getting better.

Happy Holidays for all, forever. Cheers!

Feeling Better

Thank you all so much for the prayers! I just wanted to let you guys know that between my (future) mother-in-law and Jesse, Monday saw me at the doctor's office getting a prescription of antibiotics. I have making heady improvements since then. Each day feels remarkably better than the last. :-) I am trying to gather the strings of my life now and figure out what needs to be done with them. Lol. Trying to get lessons scheduled in, etc, etc.

Plus, I'm still feeling a bit weak. I vacuumed and mopped this morning and started supper. And, I am tired. But I was able to find more energy for a longer period of time than I've had in awhile.

I hope you are all feeling well. Stay healthy. :-)

It's raining here today. I am excited... maybe spring is on the way. Maybe!!

P.S. Gabi, you brightened my evening yesterday. Thank you!! :hugs: Hi to Peter. 

Please Pray...

Wow. I must admit that I never thought I would spend my four day weekend bed/house-ridden. Naw. I intended to spend it cleaning and getting ready for another week of teaching... Lol. Well, I've had a little chance to do the latter. But it's so hard to concentrate when you're feeling sick. sick. sick.

And no, I'm still not over this. Yesterday morning saw me throwing up violently and yesterday afternoon and evening found me huddled on the couch with Jesse, recovering from yesterday morning.

This morning, my stomach is deciding whether it should explode or not. I honestly do not feel very well at all. I am just so tired.

But I am still able to sleep! That's a blessing. :-)

Please pray that I'll be on the road to recovery soon and that I'll know whether I should go see a doctor or not. I really don't want to go on antibiotics but this thing is feeling on the verge of out of control. I really need to be back to work on Tuesday and I really need to be back teaching on Tuesday!! Please pray also that I'll hang on to Jesus for dear life...

Thank you. May health be yours...

Let Not Your Hearts Be Troubled

Appreciation is the highest form of prayer, for it acknowledges the presence of good wherever you shine the light of your thankful thoughts.
Alan Cohen

Interesting thought. I've also been thinking of Paul's statement, "For I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content..." Some days are easier than others to feel content in. But if we can just hold on in the rough moments... if we can just see that small glimmer of silver lining. And for me, just to hang on to that knowledge of God wanting only the best for me. 

This morning, I woke up with a fever and all that good stuff. :P I will be glad when this is done and over with. But I am also glad it has happened. It has taught me some lessons and it has forced me to be a better person. 

It has also made me realize who I can count on to go through with me when things aren't all rosy and cheerful. That alone is invaluable. 

But do you know... the one thing it has brought to me? The strength. I did not realize that I could be thankful in spite of everything that has gone wrong today. That is so good. :-) 

Have you learned a truth today? Have you been reminded of a truth today?   

let me be glad

I am sick and miserable. I ache and shiver. Everything hurts. God, what are you doing?? I don't want to skip anymore work! And what about teaching? I feel so weak and tired. My head hurts and I can't even form a proper thought process. I wish Jesse were here. I wish I was feeling well and on top of the world. I hate my weak body. I hate my weak mind. I am scared of getting pneumonia again. I'm scared stiff...! 

Wait a minute.

::rereads::

That doesn't sound like the me I want to be at all. That sounds like a discouraged, whimpering human being who is being whupped by a petty illness. Ok. Maybe not petty. But it definitely isn't the worst by a long shot. Ok. So maybe it is a bit petty. Just a cold. Just a virus.

Come on, Naomi. Think of one thing to be thankful for.

God. 

Describe, Him, Naomi.

Always. Love. Forgive. Just. Faithful. How could I ever take my gaze from Him?

Think of another thing, Naomi.

Jesse. 

Truth. Courage. Wisdom. Human. Love. I have also forgotten the times with no you in them. 

Understanding co-workers and employer. 

Kind. Helpful. Honest. Doing their very best to like me. :-)

Lindsey: 

Always there for me. Brimming with love and helpfulness. What would I do without her? 

I am already feeling better. :-) I am blessed. I am so blessed. Fear is something that I do not have to greet. Peace and love and faith can be mine tonight.

Sweet dreams, readers. Goodnight!

From the Queen of Randomness

The show went well! In fact, it went really well. Once up on stage, my nervousness vanished and I was able to play and sing and enjoy myself.

Several musicians and friends of Michele's are coming to stay the weekend and we have been preparing. Last night, Michele made turtle cheesecake (it's a new recipe and she made her own caramels, which are wonderful but didn't quite turn out the way the recipe said so she is worried about serving the cake to company and I wondered since she had enough ingredients to make another one if we shouldn't sample this one just to make sure but she said no. Twice.) (there, I knew I could write a run-on sentence! ;-)) and lasagne, which I am quite looking forward to. I get to make french bread to go along with it!! Yay.

Went to the theatre meeting yesterday for the Easter play. It looks like it's going to be a murder mystery of sorts. I'm not sure if I am going to have a part or not. I have never memorized so many lines (well, I've memorized entire books of the Bible but that's a little different!) and I've definitely never been in a play that required so much  from me. It could be a good experience. :-) That being said, with everything else going on, I might regret committing. We shall see.

I've been reading "The Princess Bride". And laughing. Interesting thing: the book is not better than the movie. They're both equally creative. And funny.

One of my students wants to learn how to play "If I Die Young" (The Band Perry) on the piano. So I have been trying to learn it so I can teach her. I like the challenge. And I like the song. It's a bluegrass number with really nice words. Kind of a Appalachian Anne of Green Gables song.

It was *30 F (-1* C) yesterday!!!! Wow. I ran outside with no long sleeves on and I was not cold at all. I love this weather.

I watched "Appaloosa" the other day. I was so annoyed at the end of it. :sigh: Seriously, three very good actors. Three of my favorites. You wonder if any of them had ever read any westerns at all. :-P Plus, Ed Harris' character randomly loses his temper for no real reason and nearly beats a teamster to death. Interesting. I wonder why he put that into the movie? Just because he'd always wanted to randomly nearly beat someone to death? Can you tell I'm still annoyed? ;-)

And while we're on the topic of movies, has anyone watched "Young Victoria"? Opinion?

Anyone a Doctor Who fan?

I should go eat something and try to stem the tide of my cold. Or allergies. Or whatever it is. I started getting a sore throat when I began dealing with all of deceased Yoda's hair. Now my nose is running like a faucet. Lol. I'm taking zinc in case it is a cold. Maybe I should be taking more stuff. Hmm.

I am so glad God loves me.

Anyways, this is my random-ist post ever. Enjoy, Bekah dear! ;-) (And anyone else who may read this.) 

Well, I haven't been bored! ;-)

It seems like I've been crazy busy for the past few weeks... Before Christmas, I worked for about two weeks on a Christmas present for Michele. It was a scrapbook about camp 2010; pictures, memories, quotes, etc. I spent about 8 hours a day on it and rarely left my room in that time. Lol. I really should start my projects a bit earlier in the season... I finished it last minute, as usual! But Michele liked the finished product so I'm not complaining. And, FYI, I do love scrapbooking. :-)

However, there were some very frustrating moments and I would complain bitterly to myself and my friend (fellow scrapbooker) Lindsey. Because it was a secret, I couldn't exactly write about it via my blog. So, you missed all of the really sarcastic remarks about how much I love the person who decided 12" x 12" scrapbook paper should not be exactly 12" x 12". So frustrating!!! Trying to get the paper on the page and having it go crooked, etc. Ahhhh!! Lol. Another one of my greatest moments of sarcasm was directed at the sticky things I'd bought instead of double sided tape. Mistake. Finally, I was smart and went into town and found some of said tape (somewhat of a miracle, according to the people I had asked!) which made my existence a whole lot easier. :-) 

Christmas for the first time in 15 years was lovely. I really enjoyed the dinners, the games, the conversations, the gifts, the decorations, the people... The best part of it was seeing Jesse again. He arrived safely in Saskatoon after spending his two weeks in Europe and oh, was I delighted to look into his face again... :-) :-) After Christmas, we went up to see my family in Endeavour. It went over quite well. The kids really liked him and Mom said they did, so I'm happy. :-)

Next day:
I meant to post this yesterday morning but I wasn't able to finish it in time. Jesse took me to Regina for what he termed our 'big date'. It was very fun and both of us were feeling quite well for only having just recovered from the flu. We enjoy our road trips because they give us time to talk and feel like we're accomplishing something at the same time. ;-) :-) We went shopping at comics/used books stores and ate a lunch with my dear friends Ray and Tahnis. We also saw The Voyage of the Dawn Treader in 3D which was amazing. I really enjoyed that movie. :-) For those of you who haven't seen it, I would recommend the experience.

Back to the flu topic, has anyone else gotten it? It seems like almost everyone here has... nasty bug. I didn't have it nearly as badly as some, however. For that I am grateful. I have been taking some preventatives and hoping that tides me over. I am so glad I only felt sick and didn't actually have too many symptoms. Vomiting automatically sends the flu to a completely different level. :-P

So, this is my brief update. I am sorry to let it go for so long. May your weekend be beautiful and full of joy. Hugs!

Life has been interesting.... :-) We got a new strain of the cold we had just gotten over, so some of us have been fighting it again. Thankfully today I woke up feeling much better!

It's good to realize that one can indeed live without a computer but I must say, I really miss writing. I will be so glad to have my laptop working again!

Sara is starting to talk. The other day, she wanted something and I told her that she needed to say "Please" so she did. :-) Then, yesterday, I spotted her and waved, saying, "hello!" and she responded by saying the same thing back to me. It's so cute! I can't get over how fast she's maturing. Ruth didn't start talking until she was over 2 years old. :-) I'm sure Sara will be walking before too long, as well.

More interesting Stuff... ;-P

Our darling Dudley... after he finished making a complete mess out of our living room. ;-)

Summer plans:

1: Teaching at a children's camp in the month of July.

2: Helping at another children's camp for the next 6 days.

3: Attending first week of Kenosee Lake Kitchen Camp as a student.

4: Going to John Arcand's Fiddle Fest.

5: Attending second week of Kenosee Lake Kitchen Camp as a student.

Excepting Johnny's Fiddle Fest, our entire summer will be spent at one location. I've never been away from home/family for so long... the longest I've spent away from home was a little over three weeks. This is bordering on 2 months.

My biggest fear is that I will not be the best witness that I can be. The children we will working with are not church going children... they have been sponsored to attend this Bible Camp. It's going to be a challenge. :-) Last summer, the director of the camp came to me and my sisters and asked if we would be willing to teach the next summer. During the conversation, I had a strong feeling that this was what God wanted for me and it hasn't gone away since the moment I heard the request. That alone is amazing because it's not usual for me to feel so strongly about something being God's will. I prayed and others prayed about it and the details have been coming together...

So my fears are unfounded and my excitement is not. I can't wait to experience what God has planned!! :-D

We're making lists of stuff we need to purchase... I would really like to bring as little as possible but it's better to have too much than too little. I hate being away from home and running out of essentials. :-P

It feels good to be on the mend! We're still not 100% but I'm hoping that it will be so, soon. The symptoms from this virus seem to be of the tenacious sort. Some days, I'm good... other days, not so good. We are scheduled for music twice in the near future so we have been practicing each morning before school. Invariably, one of us will have to leave in the middle of a song because suddenly something comes and we can't breath and we're gagging, etc, etc. This morning it was me. :-P Lol. Ever since we've begun practicing, my lungs/back have been hurting quite a bit. It's not too bad but it's getting to where I'm having trouble getting comfortable in any position. However, I'm sure it will pass in time... I'll just have to keep busy to keep my mind off of it. I'm not sure what's happening inside that's making them hurt but I imagine that it's from them being cleared out after having this cold.

We had some 'exciting' times this week when my parents took Sara to the ER to get X-rays of her left ankle, which was very sore. There was literally no swelling... at least that we could tell... and little to no heat. But she was in a lot of pain for a couple days. You feel so helpless when you can't do anything to help. Even Baby Tylenol didn't work that well. :-P Anyway, the X-rays showed nothing was broken. They thought that she had bruised her ankle somehow (we're still wondering how it happened... maybe she slipped while pulling herself up on something?) and that it would simply take time to heal. Since then, she's been obviously in a lot less pain and is starting to put a little weight on it. Such a relief. I hate it when babies are in pain. I hate it when anyone is in pain but it seems worse with babies and young children because they can't tell you how it happened or what hurts, etc.

We have company today... For dinner, we're having fried chicken and mashed potatoes... with tapioca pudding for dessert. It's almost time so I will close this up and get it ready to go for tomorrow. Mom is going into Preeceville so I will have a bit of 'net time, hopefully. :-)

Oh yes. I was going to thank everyone who writes a comment. It makes my day to read what you have to say about my ramblings... In fact, I might even say “I blog for comments”. Lol! :-D Is that bad?

Sick :-(

My sister Lydia is posting this for me today. I am pretty sick. Mom is going to try giving me two soaks (they usually help) but if I'm not well enough by tomorrow, she's taking me to a doctor. Prayers for my health are greatly appreciated. I so do not want to lose another year but I know that God has it all under control. Please pray that I will be able to say goodbye to the fear. Thanks so much.

In Washington! :-)

I'm in the van with my mother, sisters and dearly beloved grandmother. :-) It's a pleasant morning in western Washington, with the sun filtering down through the trees, a slight breeze making the leaves tremble with joy. We're on our way to town to pick up ingredients for making homemade icecream for the anniversary party. And Grandma is talking about making salmon for dinner. :-) So, it's a happy time at the moment.

I was wondering if you all could pray for us? We are scheduled to sing at the party but a number of us are battling colds. (Surprise! :-P) As the head of the group, I'm feeling a little stressed. I know that it will all work out for the best in the end, but I need patience and wisdom as I make decisions that will be pleasing to the Lord. It will be fun to see everyone again and a little nerve wracking singing for them. LOL! A lot of these people have known us since we were babies. ;-) Lovingly, of course. Hehe.

The trip went fairly well. The first day, Ruth got car sick.... she didn't warn anyone so it went on her pillow and Hannah's sleeve (who was seated next to her). Ruth hadn't been feeling well all day, so it wasn't a big surprise. Needless to say, we were so very glad to arrive in MT that night! 17 hours on the road that day and over 11 yesterday. That's a lot of hours on the road. We were doubly glad to finally see our grandparents again. :-)

Happy Canada Day!! :-)

the search continues

The land search was quick this time... My Dad and brother came back home yesterday. In Maple Creek, it was blizzarding and the wind was howling; typical Saskatchewan winter weather. :-P


Jesse said that at one point, they could feel the back of the truck jerk towards the edge of the road.... which just happened to be a steep embankment. He said that it was only because they were in the front of the truck that it didn't go over. Of course, Martha then informed him it was lucky he's so fat. Sibling love is the greatest. hehe.

When they arrived in Saskatchewan, Dad realized all the pictures he had seen on the internet of that area been taken at the park. Said park has trees and generally looked inviting. Needless to say, this trip was unprofitable, so once again, we're out of options. It will be interesting to see what God will bring into our lives. He's always taken care of us before, so I'm not real worried. One nice thing about this excursion was that they were able to stay with some friends in Medicine Hat, Alberta. It is good to be in contact with them again!

When Dad and Jess went through the US border on their way back home, Dad accidentally (he realized afterwards) told the border guard that they had just been visiting friends in Medicine Hat, British Columbia. The funniest part about that mistake was that the border guard didn't even blink. LOL!

I'm not feeling as good as yesterday but definitely better than earlier this week. I always seem to forget how good it is to feel good... but right now, I'm reveling in it. ;-)

Thank you!

Thanks all for the comments/feedback on the last post. I appreciate it!

This morning I woke up feeling better than I have in awhile. I practiced the piano for almost an hour, then worked on our 2008 dvd. Around 3 pm, I was tired and my lungs were sore. But it was so nice to feel that improvement in the morning. Thank you so much for your prayers. They mean a lot to me.

I am posting a video that I made the other day of Lydia and Jesse when they had their little accident in the Frisbee game. I hope you enjoy it... we love it, but that's us. ;-)

May I Ask a Favor?

Sometimes I look at my blog and wonder... "Who reads this?" Even if it's just a peek every now and then, could you post a comment to let me know that you do take a peek? :-)

Also, can you tell me if you find my blog to be boring, interesting or just 'blah'? I love getting feed back!!

Oh... for those of you who can't post comments, just drop me an email. The little envelope at the bottom of the post is for just that purpose. Thanks! :-)

An update on my health: my lungs are clearing up. (I am so happy!) They do hurt a lot more now, I assume because they aren't used to all that wonderful oxygen. But I am getting better. :-) If you took the time to pray for me, thank you! :-)

Pneumonia

I have been diagnosed with pneumonia. I had it in March but apparently it came back or has never really left my system. I am relieved that it's this because it explains a lot of symptoms/concerns I've been having.

God is good. I mean it.

Could you pray that His healing hand would touch my body? And, more importantly, that I would keep a thankful attitude. :-) I love to complain... and there is so much to be thankful for. :-)I pray I keep that in mind.

The flu

That's what has been happening around our house! We thought we were going to miss it but it hit us. We only have four more to go before we're through with this and then we'll be ok. :-)