Been thinking about this phrase a lot. It all started when I was reading a novel and the main character's entire relationship with his wife started when he rescued her from a riptide. She was really fighting him and he calmed her by telling her it was ok, she was safe, he had her.
The expression means that someone is keeping you safe or watching out for you by making sure there isn't something behind you that you can't see that might harm you. Basically an expression of unequivocal concern and support.
There are times in our lives when we need to have another's back. As parents that is pretty much the rule - you pretty much always have your kids' back. (It is a plus when the child has the parent's back!) It can also happen with good friends, even with "not so good" friends - we might sometimes find support from unexpected sources. Spouses are frequently ones who back us up - I think we generally count on our spouse to have our back.
Usually this kind of support comes in an abstract way - not tangible like being saved from a riptide. Someone will voice their agreement, or think of you when you need to talk, or bring you chocolate, or invite you somewhere - include you when perhaps you might not have expected to be included.
Once in awhile, it seems, we really need to have that clear declaration that someone cares enough to pledge their loyalty, their concern and their mindfulness. It can really help get us through a difficulty, climb out of that ravine, traverse that mountain...
I so love knowing that Heavenly Father - and the Savior are there. They will always have my back. Doesn't mean that I won't ever feel a sense of loneliness or maybe even desertion. I need to keep my eyes on that eternal perspective. Someone always has my back. I'll try to be the kind of person that always has my eyes on another, having their back.
Coat Of Many Colors
I didn't post yesterday - didn't want to share my "bleghh"-ness. I rarely wake up ornery, but yesterday was a doozy. Before I was even halfway across the bedroom after sliding out from under the covers I just was mad. I woke up mad and mostly stayed that way all day long. Feelings are hurt and it makes me upset and yes, I do need to grow up. Even when The Husband was doing his best to cheer me up it just wasn't happening - I even responded to his texts to not make me laugh - I just wasn't ready yet.
I really don't recall ever waking up feeling quite that angry/hurt/upset before. And frankly, I guess I just didn't quite know how to handle it. Although the wonderful chocolate filled chocolate cake at Applebee's for dinner dessert was a huge benefit. Too bad dinner was so late in the day. I should have resorted to chocolate earlier. Next time it will be my first remedy.
Anyway, I noticed in the shower that this skin on my body is currently a coat of many colors. I have multiple layers of tan - everywhere. I am my normal color wherever my swimsuit covered. My thighs have several gradations of tan, from where my swimsuit stopped, to the shorts I was wearing over the swimsuit to the tan from the capris I wore all summer.
You can see the strap line from my suit, and then the v on my neck from the shirt I wore and the farmer-sleeve tan lines.
The most marked is the (formerly) angry red rash on my feet from the sun sensitivity. It's healing much more quickly now and is down to about 15% of the original size and color. Lots of teensy red bumps/blisters, itching, pain. I have the same thing on my ankles. I'm thinking I might next be stuck wearing socks on the beach when the sun is beating down. It's a small price to pay for the loveliness of being at the beach.
In the meantime, I'll look at the many colors on my skin and remember how much fun it was to be at the beach.
I really don't recall ever waking up feeling quite that angry/hurt/upset before. And frankly, I guess I just didn't quite know how to handle it. Although the wonderful chocolate filled chocolate cake at Applebee's for dinner dessert was a huge benefit. Too bad dinner was so late in the day. I should have resorted to chocolate earlier. Next time it will be my first remedy.
Anyway, I noticed in the shower that this skin on my body is currently a coat of many colors. I have multiple layers of tan - everywhere. I am my normal color wherever my swimsuit covered. My thighs have several gradations of tan, from where my swimsuit stopped, to the shorts I was wearing over the swimsuit to the tan from the capris I wore all summer.
You can see the strap line from my suit, and then the v on my neck from the shirt I wore and the farmer-sleeve tan lines.
In the meantime, I'll look at the many colors on my skin and remember how much fun it was to be at the beach.
Take Time To Listen
I spent the afternoon with a friend at the LDS Church Museum perusing the International Art Exhibit. Eye candy. Uplifting. A young friend of ours from the Singles Branch that The Husband was involved in had a painting there, and there was a quilt by a lady from the quilt group I belonged to - what fun to see something by someone we know.
My absolute favorite of the entire collection was titled "A Time To Listen" - a painting of a girl tuning her violin. It's a relatively small painting, in beautiful colors. The young lady has her head bent close in to her instrument listening to the sound of the strings as she tightens them up to make sure they're in tune. (You can see it here: Make Known His Wonderful Works.)
The little explanation card next to the painting talked about how our world is filled with lots of noise, some of it intrusive. And to truly hear, we have to lean in, concentrate and pay attention.
If we want to hear inspiration from the scriptures, answers to our prayers, or wisdom from our Heavenly Father we must be equally focused.
I loved that the words and the painting evoked a response from me - I immediately wanted to just be quiet and listen. I think really listening is a skill that we don't cultivate enough.
My absolute favorite of the entire collection was titled "A Time To Listen" - a painting of a girl tuning her violin. It's a relatively small painting, in beautiful colors. The young lady has her head bent close in to her instrument listening to the sound of the strings as she tightens them up to make sure they're in tune. (You can see it here: Make Known His Wonderful Works.)
The little explanation card next to the painting talked about how our world is filled with lots of noise, some of it intrusive. And to truly hear, we have to lean in, concentrate and pay attention.
If we want to hear inspiration from the scriptures, answers to our prayers, or wisdom from our Heavenly Father we must be equally focused.
I loved that the words and the painting evoked a response from me - I immediately wanted to just be quiet and listen. I think really listening is a skill that we don't cultivate enough.
Back To Real Life
This morning it was back to real life. Playtime is over for awhile. It felt good to be back on the elliptical - I'll be trying to drop those 4 pounds I gained over the vacation. Laundry is almost caught up, same with the ironing. Still need to apply the vacuum and steamer to the floors.
It rained all night long, rained most of the morning. That means: cooler temps! YAY - it's fall! And here is the evidence:
It rained all night long, rained most of the morning. That means: cooler temps! YAY - it's fall! And here is the evidence:
Went to lunch with some friends - oh, how I enjoy getting together with them! All the way to pick them up I kept wishing I'd had my camera, the clouds were so stunning nestled in the canyons of the mountains. On the way home I had to stop several times and snap some shots with my phone. It would have been nice to manage the picture without the road, but I would have needed an additional foot in height and an additional foot in arm's length. (I've become a big fan of the saying: the best camera is the one you have with you - and most everyone has their phone these days.)
I so love this time of year, the heat of summer is gone and I look forward to the layers that disguise the extra fat cells around my middle that summer clothes don't quite manage.
And though I enjoyed our vacation tremendously, it feels good to get back to some sort of routine. Undoubtedly in another few days I'll be whining about the need for a vacation. You just can't please some people....
Last Vacation Day
And it was a good one. Except.....
when you're driving down the street and look up only to see some lady coming straight toward you driving on the wrong side of the road!!
I seriously think she was just anxious to get in front of the long line of cars waiting to turn left and just decided to go around them. Those rules, you know, are for everyone else.
We saw a movie this afternoon, and while I continue to be bothered by the ubiquitous unpleasant language, this one was actually pretty good. Trouble With The Curve. A movie more about relationships than anything else; be kind, it's a good thing.
when you're driving down the street and look up only to see some lady coming straight toward you driving on the wrong side of the road!!
I seriously think she was just anxious to get in front of the long line of cars waiting to turn left and just decided to go around them. Those rules, you know, are for everyone else.
We saw a movie this afternoon, and while I continue to be bothered by the ubiquitous unpleasant language, this one was actually pretty good. Trouble With The Curve. A movie more about relationships than anything else; be kind, it's a good thing.
Thoughts on Shelling
One of the mandatory activities at the beach is looking for shells. (It really is just an excuse to spend days at a time meandering along the edge (or even completely in) the surf, letting the sound wash over our troubles and wave them away.) The Atlantic water is so much warmer than the Pacific that it is really a treat to be out in it.
I have a jar that I fill with my shells (and my memories). Usually the shells we find are broken like these. Not often do we find them whole.
First thing on the beach, The Husband found this larger conch shell. They are fairly rare for us to find. We have found several in the past, although usually they're inhabited and we can't bring ourselves to kill the inhabitant just for a keepsake.
The Husband also found the sand dollars. They are a treasured prize. It seems we rarely find them unbroken and when we do, they somehow don't manage to survive the trip home intact. The yellow one I call the "potato chip" shells because they look so much like, well, potato chips, and the other is a shark's eye shell (upside down - I'm amazed that I actually know the correct name) and they are generally quite easy to find.
With each visit we find the prevalence of shells varies from kind to kind. This year we found a lot of these little spirals. And for the first time found the ones I call "pincushion" shells. Even more fun, they were unbroken.
This is the second year we've found these sort of tube shells, although last year they were all really small.
The real hunt, though, is for whole sand dollars. This year the storm brought in lots of them down at the west end of the island. By the time we got there, they were pretty much picked up. Although, amazingly, we managed to find a few and most of them made it home.
I've thought about the quest for the perfect shell. Even when we manage to find unbroken shells, they often have cracks. Or they carry "baggage" like this one.
I have a jar that I fill with my shells (and my memories). Usually the shells we find are broken like these. Not often do we find them whole.
With each visit we find the prevalence of shells varies from kind to kind. This year we found a lot of these little spirals. And for the first time found the ones I call "pincushion" shells. Even more fun, they were unbroken.
This is the second year we've found these sort of tube shells, although last year they were all really small.
I've thought about the quest for the perfect shell. Even when we manage to find unbroken shells, they often have cracks. Or they carry "baggage" like this one.
Sometimes the "baggage" is easily removed, others - not so much. The Husband smilingly teases me about my propensity to pick up the broken ones, the ones where I can see the beauty of the inside. I tell him they have character. He just chuckles and humors my collection of broken shells that no one else would want.
I finally told him I hoped Heavenly Father could see past my cracks and baggage and will love me the same, my hope is that He can see the inner beauty that I hope I have. And that I can remember to look for the inner beauty in others, in spite of their chips and baggage. I have a bit of difficulty with that. My resolve is to do better.
Sunset Beach
We've had relatively few vacations in our marriage, until the last few years. The beach is always a draw for us - we tend to want to go there the most. Our favorite of all the beaches we've been to is on the east coast. We love that it is a quiet family beach, people take generations of their families there on a regular basis.
Being that it is off the beaten path, it is a teensy bit more complicated to get there, but the laid-back lifestyle fits our vacation requirements to a "T". I've learned that I can go an entire week without make-up or curling my hair. I don't die, I'm just not comfortable. Don't like looking less than my best for The Husband.
Here are a few of the stand-outs from this last week:
We ate: hushpuppies (though not enough of them), b-b-q, seafood, and more seafood, Carrabba's Italian for our anniversary, snacks on the beach (wheat thins remain my favorite cracker), homemade ice cream from the Calabash Creamery (a solid tradition), Smoothie King (no Jamba Juice in the south) and Cocoa Krispies (a rare indulgence). (I still don't understand how we went for a week without any real chocolate.)
We slept in some but also got up early enough for the sunrise. (The morning light is my absolute favorite light of the day.)
We went to church in Shallotte - had to take a picture (hurriedly, that's why the blur) of this sign above the toilet paper in the restroom . Haven't seen one like that. And I agree, little things make a big difference - especially paper towel dispensers that actually have paper towels in them for when you wash your hands. (Obviously, this bathroom was missing the towels.)
We had: all kinds of weather which made the week interesting. Sunshine, clouds, storms - which meant rain - more sunshine, more clouds, and more sunshine.
The storm made for some big waves, lightning w-a-y off in the distance over the ocean that woke us up at night and also made...seafoam! Don't recall seeing this before. Tickled my fancy.
We learned we could leave our sandals by the steps and no one would bother them. Walking in the sand barefoot is sooo much better.
And noticed that the steps have had to be replaced in a few places because of the encroaching beach. This particular stair-over-the-dune (or if you prefer, a stile) was the one right next to our house. We figured there are about 5 steps buried under the sand.
My distaste for stairs remains firmly in place after this trip. The houses are built on stilts because of the proximity to the ocean, so there are stairs up to the house, stairs inside, stairs to the beach, stairs back from the beach. If I lived there my backside would probably be in better shape due to the stair-exercise.
We saw: countless seagulls, egrets, herons, some deer (we weren't aware there were deer on the island) giant turtles, a couple cockroaches (thank heavens only a couple), people, beautiful houses, a fair amount of beach umbrellas, 50 pound watermelon being sold from the back of a pick-up parked by the side of the highway, handwoven baskets similarly marketed, wandering rabbits, jumping fish, and an alligator! (Little Jimmy, as opposed to Big Jimmy. They both spend their nights in the ocean marsh on the east of the road and then traverse to the pond of the golf course to spend their days amongst the golfers who park their carts right next to the alligators without even a hint of reaction.)
I learned that even with prodigious application of sunblock (and then careful avoidance of water and rubbing so as to not remove the sunblock) I still get sunburned on the tops of my feet. Never fails. Although this time it doesn't seem quite as bad.
Lesson 2: the most important accessories for me for the beach are my hat and my sunglasses. (An easily removable shirt over the swimsuit is also helpful.) Also decided that $16 chairs from Wal-Mart are better than the $20 ratty chairs we've rented in the past.
We also learned that the distance from the west-most stair-stile to the west end of the beach is just barely under 2.5 miles so the round trip was about 5 miles that took us roughly 2 1/2 hours. Perfect pace, perfect to be out as the sun rose, not too many other shell-seekers out and about and apples eaten as we walked made a good breakfast.
Beach activities included reading, sitting, walking along the surf, reading, napping, eating, shelling, and more of the same - over and over. The beauty of our surroundings seeping into our souls seems to be a kind of therapy. And for me, even more so with my favorite person in the whole world.
This was a grand way to celebrate our 42nd anniversary. Heavenly Father receives my eternal gratitude for helping me to find this man - the one who isn't afraid to work hard, and has never complained about doing so, who treats me as though I am someone extraordinarily special, who never seeks any recognition for all he does - always "above and beyond", and who would rather still be at the beach. I'm sorry a week wasn't quite long enough, we'll go again.
I read a quote this morning (by Andy Rooney I think) that said something along these lines - "If you smile when no one else is around, you really mean it." I did that this last week, more than once. And yes, I think I really did mean it.
Our biggest surprise: being met at the end of a long flight by The Daughter and Grandson! Hugs, smiles and frozen custard - a delightful way to complete our trip.
And now.... in spite of the mountains of laundry, the stacks of mail and the pile of bills to catch up on, I'm grateful for our safe return. For me, there will never be any place like Home.
Being that it is off the beaten path, it is a teensy bit more complicated to get there, but the laid-back lifestyle fits our vacation requirements to a "T". I've learned that I can go an entire week without make-up or curling my hair. I don't die, I'm just not comfortable. Don't like looking less than my best for The Husband.
Here are a few of the stand-outs from this last week:
We ate: hushpuppies (though not enough of them), b-b-q, seafood, and more seafood, Carrabba's Italian for our anniversary, snacks on the beach (wheat thins remain my favorite cracker), homemade ice cream from the Calabash Creamery (a solid tradition), Smoothie King (no Jamba Juice in the south) and Cocoa Krispies (a rare indulgence). (I still don't understand how we went for a week without any real chocolate.)
We slept in some but also got up early enough for the sunrise. (The morning light is my absolute favorite light of the day.)
We went to church in Shallotte - had to take a picture (hurriedly, that's why the blur) of this sign above the toilet paper in the restroom . Haven't seen one like that. And I agree, little things make a big difference - especially paper towel dispensers that actually have paper towels in them for when you wash your hands. (Obviously, this bathroom was missing the towels.)
The storm made for some big waves, lightning w-a-y off in the distance over the ocean that woke us up at night and also made...seafoam! Don't recall seeing this before. Tickled my fancy.
We learned we could leave our sandals by the steps and no one would bother them. Walking in the sand barefoot is sooo much better.
And noticed that the steps have had to be replaced in a few places because of the encroaching beach. This particular stair-over-the-dune (or if you prefer, a stile) was the one right next to our house. We figured there are about 5 steps buried under the sand.
I learned that even with prodigious application of sunblock (and then careful avoidance of water and rubbing so as to not remove the sunblock) I still get sunburned on the tops of my feet. Never fails. Although this time it doesn't seem quite as bad.
Lesson 2: the most important accessories for me for the beach are my hat and my sunglasses. (An easily removable shirt over the swimsuit is also helpful.) Also decided that $16 chairs from Wal-Mart are better than the $20 ratty chairs we've rented in the past.
Beach activities included reading, sitting, walking along the surf, reading, napping, eating, shelling, and more of the same - over and over. The beauty of our surroundings seeping into our souls seems to be a kind of therapy. And for me, even more so with my favorite person in the whole world.
This was a grand way to celebrate our 42nd anniversary. Heavenly Father receives my eternal gratitude for helping me to find this man - the one who isn't afraid to work hard, and has never complained about doing so, who treats me as though I am someone extraordinarily special, who never seeks any recognition for all he does - always "above and beyond", and who would rather still be at the beach. I'm sorry a week wasn't quite long enough, we'll go again.
I read a quote this morning (by Andy Rooney I think) that said something along these lines - "If you smile when no one else is around, you really mean it." I did that this last week, more than once. And yes, I think I really did mean it.
Our biggest surprise: being met at the end of a long flight by The Daughter and Grandson! Hugs, smiles and frozen custard - a delightful way to complete our trip.
And now.... in spite of the mountains of laundry, the stacks of mail and the pile of bills to catch up on, I'm grateful for our safe return. For me, there will never be any place like Home.
I'm Thinking Early Today
Noticed a guy walking his dog ahead of me on the trail this morning. I was walking faster, so I was "dogging" their heels in a short time, causing some consternation with the dog who thought he'd found a new friend and kept turning around to give me his attention. Since he is a great dane, his owner/master had a hard time controlling him every time the dog would turn around and wait for me to come play with him. His back was at my waist height. And even though he was a very friendly dog, I was grateful his (yes, a very tall man) owner kept a good grip on his leash. If he'd run to me and put his paws on my shoulders to greet me - as has actually happened to me in the past - he would have knocked me to the ground. Too bad I couldn't get to my phone in time to take a picture.
But I did get this one. Yes, I know these sunflowers are the weed kind. But how can you look at this field of yellow and not get a smile on your face? It was a much happier sight than the picture indicates.
And I read this quote first thing this morning, and loved it. Good words to live by, and thanks, Ben for your wisdom.
"The best thing to give to your enemy is forgiveness; to an opponent, tolerance; to a friend, your heart; to your child, a good example; to a father, deference; to your mother, conduct that will make her proud of you; to yourself, respect; to all men, charity." --Benjamin Franklin
We'll be heading to bed early because of our early a.m. flight. I'm still praying for good weather, it has been looking pretty iffy. Still, though, I'm anticipating with pleasure the beach, the hush puppies, the fresh seafood, the bbq - seems like a lot in there about food, but the beach is still number 1 on the list of enjoyments!
But I did get this one. Yes, I know these sunflowers are the weed kind. But how can you look at this field of yellow and not get a smile on your face? It was a much happier sight than the picture indicates.
And I read this quote first thing this morning, and loved it. Good words to live by, and thanks, Ben for your wisdom.
"The best thing to give to your enemy is forgiveness; to an opponent, tolerance; to a friend, your heart; to your child, a good example; to a father, deference; to your mother, conduct that will make her proud of you; to yourself, respect; to all men, charity." --Benjamin Franklin
We'll be heading to bed early because of our early a.m. flight. I'm still praying for good weather, it has been looking pretty iffy. Still, though, I'm anticipating with pleasure the beach, the hush puppies, the fresh seafood, the bbq - seems like a lot in there about food, but the beach is still number 1 on the list of enjoyments!
My Silliness
In a bit we'll be heading out for our week at the beach. Along about this time - a week or so before a trip - I always start to get a little crazy-silly in my head.
I'm a natural worrier. Yes, I understand that it is a counterproductive trait, accomplishes next to nothing and isn't becoming. Still, that's the way I came, that's who I am. I try to keep the worrying in check, try to keep it to myself - try not to be obvious about it. (And yes, I've managed to garner a bit of ribbing-criticism from others for this very thing. I'm dealing with it - I'm so much improved over how I used to be.)
Before a trip I find myself concerned about coming home. (My favorite place to be.) I enjoy getting away. I enjoy seeing other parts of this wonderful world, sampling the beauty (and yes, the food) native to areas other than my own. Besides - it's good for me.
But I'll catch myself thinking: better wait until I get home to stock up on - whatever it is - I might not come home and then the money would be wasted. I might go down in a plane crash. Do the kids know where our wills are? Will they fight over things - or will they like each other and get along? Should I label the gifts I've been working on for some friends, so the kids will know who to give them to? Will they know where to look for the little bits of money I've secretly stashed in private places?
Traveling is out of my comfort zone. It's a big world out there. It makes me nervous. Some psychologist would probably have a field day analyzing this weird silliness of mine. I've always (in my head) applauded those who travel with ease and aplomb. Not an ability I share.
But there it is. Basically: I'm a wee bit scared. Between now and the time I arrive back home I'll stew and fret - hopefully mostly in my mind - about the safety of our travel, about the weather, about the kids at home, about the cost, about pretty much everything.
The upside: I'll be with The Husband, my very favorite person in the world. I know he'll do his best to keep me safe. Unfortunately a lot of that will be out of his control.
Please wish me "Bon Voyage" and more importantly: "Return Safe!" (And, Kids, the embroidery is for Joan.)
I'm a natural worrier. Yes, I understand that it is a counterproductive trait, accomplishes next to nothing and isn't becoming. Still, that's the way I came, that's who I am. I try to keep the worrying in check, try to keep it to myself - try not to be obvious about it. (And yes, I've managed to garner a bit of ribbing-criticism from others for this very thing. I'm dealing with it - I'm so much improved over how I used to be.)
Before a trip I find myself concerned about coming home. (My favorite place to be.) I enjoy getting away. I enjoy seeing other parts of this wonderful world, sampling the beauty (and yes, the food) native to areas other than my own. Besides - it's good for me.
But I'll catch myself thinking: better wait until I get home to stock up on - whatever it is - I might not come home and then the money would be wasted. I might go down in a plane crash. Do the kids know where our wills are? Will they fight over things - or will they like each other and get along? Should I label the gifts I've been working on for some friends, so the kids will know who to give them to? Will they know where to look for the little bits of money I've secretly stashed in private places?
Traveling is out of my comfort zone. It's a big world out there. It makes me nervous. Some psychologist would probably have a field day analyzing this weird silliness of mine. I've always (in my head) applauded those who travel with ease and aplomb. Not an ability I share.
But there it is. Basically: I'm a wee bit scared. Between now and the time I arrive back home I'll stew and fret - hopefully mostly in my mind - about the safety of our travel, about the weather, about the kids at home, about the cost, about pretty much everything.
The upside: I'll be with The Husband, my very favorite person in the world. I know he'll do his best to keep me safe. Unfortunately a lot of that will be out of his control.
Please wish me "Bon Voyage" and more importantly: "Return Safe!" (And, Kids, the embroidery is for Joan.)
More Hidden Messages?
I'm still on the receiving end of well-wishes for my big day last week.
But I wonder if there isn't some hidden message here:
Three - yes three bottles of soap. Does it seem like I don't wash my hands? I promise I do - at least once a week whether they need it or not!
Seriously, though, thanks to all those people who made it a point to visit, to hug and to gift. It is surely balm to my heart.
And switching thoughts here, we had a couple of trees trimmed last week. They thought it would take an hour - at least that is what they scheduled. They arrived somewhere in the vicinity of 10 a.m. Three tree-trimmers.
We were almost heading out for our evening at the symphony when they finally left around 5 p.m. That was one long hour. The Husband loves the results - I'm still thinking on it. I just feel so exposed - those two aged cottonwood trees, one in each corner of the backyard have screened our yard from the trail-users on the trail that backs our yard.
The light will be beneficial come next summer, though when The Husband plants the garden under one of those cottonwoods. And now I'm wondering - what sort of fertilization qualities the cotton from those trees possess - perhaps we can forego fertilizing the veggies!?
I wish I had pictures of the before, but only the after. They are majestic trees, yes?
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But I wonder if there isn't some hidden message here:
Seriously, though, thanks to all those people who made it a point to visit, to hug and to gift. It is surely balm to my heart.
And switching thoughts here, we had a couple of trees trimmed last week. They thought it would take an hour - at least that is what they scheduled. They arrived somewhere in the vicinity of 10 a.m. Three tree-trimmers.
We were almost heading out for our evening at the symphony when they finally left around 5 p.m. That was one long hour. The Husband loves the results - I'm still thinking on it. I just feel so exposed - those two aged cottonwood trees, one in each corner of the backyard have screened our yard from the trail-users on the trail that backs our yard.
The light will be beneficial come next summer, though when The Husband plants the garden under one of those cottonwoods. And now I'm wondering - what sort of fertilization qualities the cotton from those trees possess - perhaps we can forego fertilizing the veggies!?
I wish I had pictures of the before, but only the after. They are majestic trees, yes?
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Nashi
It is the harvest season (albeit an early harvest this year) for the Nashi pears. The whole area a block south of our street used to be an orchard - Nashi pears, peaches and other assorted fruit.
The pears are absolute ambrosia. I remember the first year we were aware of them I thought the fruit couldn't possibly be as delicious as people said they were. And I was so very wrong! (And just FYI - don't bother spending the money for the pricey ones sometimes found in the grocery. They taste nothing like the fresh ones!)
There are some trees left in some of the yards, but not lots and lots. Some of the tree owners are generous with the fruit, and others not quite so much. We are fortunate enough to be on the list of one the generous tree owners. Last year we were invited to go over and pick as many as we wanted - I felt a bit greedy with all the fruit that was hauled out of that yard, enough for the grandchilluns to munch on for weeks and weeks.
This year he delivered a huge box - there is more than enough for us to eat, and I've already been sharing them around. The pears from their trees are always larger than some of the others we see. And his wife doesn't even really care for them.
They are round like an apple, taste more like a pear (which they are) but with a very mild apple sort of crunch. This photo makes them look more green than they really are, and they yellow as they ripen.
It is hard to feel guilty having a couple a day - fruit is healthy, right?
Rather I choose to be grateful to be the recipient of our friends' generosity.
And even more aware and grateful for the bounty of this beautiful earth that Heavenly Father created for us.
The pears are absolute ambrosia. I remember the first year we were aware of them I thought the fruit couldn't possibly be as delicious as people said they were. And I was so very wrong! (And just FYI - don't bother spending the money for the pricey ones sometimes found in the grocery. They taste nothing like the fresh ones!)
There are some trees left in some of the yards, but not lots and lots. Some of the tree owners are generous with the fruit, and others not quite so much. We are fortunate enough to be on the list of one the generous tree owners. Last year we were invited to go over and pick as many as we wanted - I felt a bit greedy with all the fruit that was hauled out of that yard, enough for the grandchilluns to munch on for weeks and weeks.
They are round like an apple, taste more like a pear (which they are) but with a very mild apple sort of crunch. This photo makes them look more green than they really are, and they yellow as they ripen.
It is hard to feel guilty having a couple a day - fruit is healthy, right?
Rather I choose to be grateful to be the recipient of our friends' generosity.
And even more aware and grateful for the bounty of this beautiful earth that Heavenly Father created for us.
Farewell, My Friend
This morning I said farewell to a lifelong friend.
I can't remember ever not having this friend. Family legend has it coming to our family via my Grandparents who purchased it "used" back in the dark ages. At one time we researched this particular piano and came up with a possible manufacture of 1925 or thereabouts.
I took a couple years worth of lessons - all my parents could afford - and from there we were best buds. I can't recall Mom ever telling me to practice, I doubt she needed to. This friend of mine was always waiting and ready for me to plunk down on the bench and reach out my hands and start the communication process.
Our relationship was limited only by my skill (or lack thereof), the music available and my time parameters. I took every emotion imaginable to this piano - my joy, my frustration, my anger, and when pushed to play when I really didn't want to play - my reluctance. Still, though, there was a connection.
We've hauled this piano from home to home, city to city, state to state. It truly has been my steadfast friend. I shall always consider it so.
Recently I've been thinking about sending it to another home. Didn't think anyone would actually want it. It has been through some stuff. And clearly needs a loving touch. Then....I heard from my cousin that she was looking for a piano. Didn't want to spend a lot. She has a granddaughter in need of a piano. Today was moving day.
My cousin brought her kids and grandchilluns and a large trailer and they had that heavy friend of mine loaded in nothing flat. Added a couple towels for protection and cinched down the straps and off they went.
I confess: my heart was sad. I think my cousin is doing something wonderful for her granddaughter. No one can really hurt this piano - after all, it once jumped over the side of a pick-up truck, and left every single ivory topped key strewn across the pavement. But....for someone with a desire to learn to play the piano and not many other options, well, I think this is a good place for my friend. And a side benefit is this little girl will enjoy the piano her great-great grandmother once played.
One might ask - what about my own children? That was a mental process I went through over and over. Child #1 already has two pianos and not really room for another. (They aren't quite like children in that there's always room for one more....) Child #2 is living "lean" and doesn't really want that kind of encumbrance. Child #3 purchased the piano that he and his wife chose together - and he does not play. Child #4 has access to a piano anytime she wants.
I do expect a bit of grief concerning my peremptory decision to donate the piano to a good cause. I have been the recipient of such grief in the past - from my siblings. However, I stand firm. The piano was mine. And it was more my friend than anyone else's. I sincerely doubt that anyone in the piano's history spent as many hours with it as I did and I'm certain no one spent more.
And my hope: that a new friendship is formed. One as abiding and beneficial as ours has been. I wish you find your new home to be a good one. Farewell, my friend, I will miss you.
And The Celebration Continues....
I was treated to a french toast breakfast at Kneaders. Yum!
These earrings were a gift from a friend-couple - they got them when they were on their cruise earlier this year to Alaska. She said when she saw them (apparently Alaska's state flower is the forget-me-not) she was reminded of Pres. Uchtdorf's talk last year - such a memorable and applicable talk - about the forget-me-not. I love them all the more for the connection.
Brought the mail in and noticed this coupon on the back of the Joann's circular. Never would have noticed it a couple years ago. But 20% off your entire purchase? And now I fit the category!
Don't quite know how to feel about that.
I have always felt like I had a deep affinity for music. I've always thought that music is an extra-extra blessing from Heavenly Father. One that truly helps us through this life.
Tonight was our first symphony concert of the season. The music of Billy Joel was highlighted and performed. The musicians were amazing-their talent and expertise seemingly unlimited. Really a fabulous evening that had nearly everyone immersed and enjoying every note.
Except for the older lady sitting next to me. During one musical selection alone I saw her check her watch three times. It really wasn't her kind of music. And we got a kick out of the lady in front of us: she was really into the music but hadn't a lick of rhythm, couldn't clap in time to the music with the rest of us for anything. Still, though, she was having a ball.
And tomorrow? A wedding reception in the evening, a visit with a cousin in the morning, a rehearsal in the afternoon and if we're able, a movie in the middle somewhere. It sounds like all we do is party. How grateful I am for the fun we are able to find in every day.
Brought the mail in and noticed this coupon on the back of the Joann's circular. Never would have noticed it a couple years ago. But 20% off your entire purchase? And now I fit the category!
I have always felt like I had a deep affinity for music. I've always thought that music is an extra-extra blessing from Heavenly Father. One that truly helps us through this life.
Tonight was our first symphony concert of the season. The music of Billy Joel was highlighted and performed. The musicians were amazing-their talent and expertise seemingly unlimited. Really a fabulous evening that had nearly everyone immersed and enjoying every note.
Except for the older lady sitting next to me. During one musical selection alone I saw her check her watch three times. It really wasn't her kind of music. And we got a kick out of the lady in front of us: she was really into the music but hadn't a lick of rhythm, couldn't clap in time to the music with the rest of us for anything. Still, though, she was having a ball.
And tomorrow? A wedding reception in the evening, a visit with a cousin in the morning, a rehearsal in the afternoon and if we're able, a movie in the middle somewhere. It sounds like all we do is party. How grateful I am for the fun we are able to find in every day.
What A Day!
First thing this morning we went for a shortened version of my morning walk. The Husband took the day off to be with me and it was surely a treat to be with him the whole day. This first shot was taken a few houses up the street. Still am not sure why the toilet is displayed so prominently on the front porch. But it was unusual enough for me to take note.
Then off to our local eatery for breakfast. The Husband had called ahead and had them make two of my favorite chocolate bundtlette cakes without the frosting (in my opinion, the only way to have cake). We had our breakfast with a bundtlette dessert. Yum! Saved the other one for later.
On the way out of the restaurant I looked down and spied this penny which I promptly picked up for good luck.
Then it was off to the stores. I managed to snag a deal on a sweater: regularly $34 for which I paid $10.56 (including tax). And...it's cute!
Got The Husband a new pair of shoes. Then off to the mall where I got a new pair of shoes. These aren't the shoes I bought. Just had to make note of a pair of shoes some lucky soul will no doubt absolutely love:
Home to rest up for a minute - and to answer the door multiple times. I was brought Sweet Tooth Fairy Cake Bites, refrigerator cakes, flowers, Nothing Bundt Cake-let, cards, plums, soap and hugs.
Then off to dinner at Cheesecake Factory and then a meander around the mall to settle our overfull stomachs. Leaving the restaurant we beheld this lovely sunset on the mountains - if you can ignore the cars in the parking lot.
I've enjoyed phone calls (also texts and voicemails) from children, grandchildren and friends, have received good wishes via e-mail and have generally felt unworthy of all the attention and care from others. (When I apologized to the daughter for interrupting a visit to answer the door she brought me up short with her comment about not minding that other people love me, too. I had only been thinking of the inconvenience to another, not that the inconvenience meant people were expressing their affection. )
I has been an amazing day. I am overwhelmed with the attention I've received. Thanks, My Love for all you always do to make me cherished. And to my family: thank you for being my family and for the love I've felt from you all. I'll work hard to deserve it.
And I'm thinking I will most likely sleep mighty fine tonight. It has been a great day.
Then it was off to the stores. I managed to snag a deal on a sweater: regularly $34 for which I paid $10.56 (including tax). And...it's cute!
Got The Husband a new pair of shoes. Then off to the mall where I got a new pair of shoes. These aren't the shoes I bought. Just had to make note of a pair of shoes some lucky soul will no doubt absolutely love:
I has been an amazing day. I am overwhelmed with the attention I've received. Thanks, My Love for all you always do to make me cherished. And to my family: thank you for being my family and for the love I've felt from you all. I'll work hard to deserve it.
And I'm thinking I will most likely sleep mighty fine tonight. It has been a great day.
Wednesday's Random Mind-Wanderings
My morning bike ride (12 1/2 miles) was in 51 degree weather - loved - it and netted me a spontaneous smile and a bit of conversation from a friend-couple that I saw on the trail.
Came in the house to find this rose from our yard. Every year I determine that I will have fresh-cut roses in the house the whole summer long. And for the last few years, it's just too hot to go out and work in them. Because cutting means pruning and dead-heading and so on. Such a sweet gesture from The Husband.
Received a fun e-mail this morning. You know, one of those you like to share with others. In the past there has been a friend that I couldn't wait to share stuff like this with. Can't do that anymore. Miss it.
A friend brought over some Nashi pears the other night. They are quite early this year. And they taste so wonderful. I'm so glad all the trees - from the orchards that were here long before the houses - weren't removed.
And I just had to share the progress of the orchid. It is looking mighty fine, can't wait to see the blooms. If I remember, this is one orchid that has quite a pleasing scent. Up close you can see there will be lots of blossoms on this one stem. What fun.
And a last thought: I remember when the smaller home computers were just new. The hype was that they were going to be so useful (true, they are) and would save us so much time. I'm wondering about that saving time thing. It seems like I spend a lot of time on my computer (and who'd have thought I'd have not only a computer all my own, but two of them if you include my iPad). I'm not saying that it is necessarily a bad thing. Just wondering what I'm doing with all that time I'm saving.....
I was asked to play for a gal in our ward to sing on Sunday in Sacrament meeting. I hope the music isn't really hard, I'm still waiting to see it.
And, as usual, I'm really stretching to find something interesting to say on a Wednesday.
Came in the house to find this rose from our yard. Every year I determine that I will have fresh-cut roses in the house the whole summer long. And for the last few years, it's just too hot to go out and work in them. Because cutting means pruning and dead-heading and so on. Such a sweet gesture from The Husband.
A friend brought over some Nashi pears the other night. They are quite early this year. And they taste so wonderful. I'm so glad all the trees - from the orchards that were here long before the houses - weren't removed.
And a last thought: I remember when the smaller home computers were just new. The hype was that they were going to be so useful (true, they are) and would save us so much time. I'm wondering about that saving time thing. It seems like I spend a lot of time on my computer (and who'd have thought I'd have not only a computer all my own, but two of them if you include my iPad). I'm not saying that it is necessarily a bad thing. Just wondering what I'm doing with all that time I'm saving.....
I was asked to play for a gal in our ward to sing on Sunday in Sacrament meeting. I hope the music isn't really hard, I'm still waiting to see it.
And, as usual, I'm really stretching to find something interesting to say on a Wednesday.
Grocery Store and Serendipity
Made my usual Tuesday afternoon trek to the grocery store. Tuesdays because by then the deliveries have come in as opposed to Monday morning when they haven't. And I noticed something - again - that is a bit disconcerting. Several times in the last little while I've been to the grocery and found.....empty shelves.
I don't know the reason. There could be many. But, it does bother me a bit. And then it reminds me how much I've always taken for granted the plenty we have in this country. The abundance of food on shelves, the variety and multitude of things for the taking - just plunk down a bit of money and it's mine. I don't want to be a person who takes things for granted.
So today, I'm grateful for our grocery stores and the bounty of food they hold. My hope is that we never have to endure what it means to have stores with mostly empty shelves - and the few things that are on the shelves too expensive for us to buy. That would be hunger not only for the body, but also for the soul.
Serendipitously, I happened to call the Symphony office to see where our season tickets are. We buy them in May, they are printed and sent out in August and we have them in our eager hands for the performances throughout the season. But, ours never arrived.
Come to find out they had a huge problem with the printers and the mailing. Lots of subscribers never received their tickets. Including us. But the serendipitous thing is - our first tickets are for Friday night - 3 days from now. Had I waited to call until next week, we'd have missed our first concert.
I choose, though, to think this is more than serendipity (I just love that word and it's meaning). I believe this is one of those tender mercies, where The Lord makes clear His hand in our lives. In this instance, saving us inconvenience, money and irritation. I'm doubly looking forward to Friday night - it will be an extra-special evening because my being there will be a tender mercy.
I don't know the reason. There could be many. But, it does bother me a bit. And then it reminds me how much I've always taken for granted the plenty we have in this country. The abundance of food on shelves, the variety and multitude of things for the taking - just plunk down a bit of money and it's mine. I don't want to be a person who takes things for granted.
So today, I'm grateful for our grocery stores and the bounty of food they hold. My hope is that we never have to endure what it means to have stores with mostly empty shelves - and the few things that are on the shelves too expensive for us to buy. That would be hunger not only for the body, but also for the soul.
Serendipitously, I happened to call the Symphony office to see where our season tickets are. We buy them in May, they are printed and sent out in August and we have them in our eager hands for the performances throughout the season. But, ours never arrived.
Come to find out they had a huge problem with the printers and the mailing. Lots of subscribers never received their tickets. Including us. But the serendipitous thing is - our first tickets are for Friday night - 3 days from now. Had I waited to call until next week, we'd have missed our first concert.
I choose, though, to think this is more than serendipity (I just love that word and it's meaning). I believe this is one of those tender mercies, where The Lord makes clear His hand in our lives. In this instance, saving us inconvenience, money and irritation. I'm doubly looking forward to Friday night - it will be an extra-special evening because my being there will be a tender mercy.
Piano
I've been grumpy in the past about my seemingly assigned seat at the piano bench, usually in a corner of the (take your pick) R. S. room, primary room, chapel, baptism, funeral, fireside, Senior Care Center, or any number of other occasions.
Not that I don't enjoy playing for all of those things. I really always have. I just (and w-a-y too vocally - a thing that I now regret) mentioned how I could do other things besides use my ten fingers and a toe-on-the-pedal.
My thinking has shifted. I now really prefer sitting behind the piano in the the corner of the room. It encourages me to attend things I otherwise might not, and contribute and be a witness to or experience things I otherwise might not be able to.
I was invited to play for a baptism yesterday - the son of my visiting teacher. What (yet again) a privilege. I always come away from occasions where I get to play feeling so uplifted, with a fresh buoyancy in my heart (and feet), feeling just a teensy bit needed and valued.
Perhaps the ultimate motivation is selfishness. I'd like to think there's a bit more to it than that, even though I am the one who benefits the most.
Not that I don't enjoy playing for all of those things. I really always have. I just (and w-a-y too vocally - a thing that I now regret) mentioned how I could do other things besides use my ten fingers and a toe-on-the-pedal.
My thinking has shifted. I now really prefer sitting behind the piano in the the corner of the room. It encourages me to attend things I otherwise might not, and contribute and be a witness to or experience things I otherwise might not be able to.
I was invited to play for a baptism yesterday - the son of my visiting teacher. What (yet again) a privilege. I always come away from occasions where I get to play feeling so uplifted, with a fresh buoyancy in my heart (and feet), feeling just a teensy bit needed and valued.
Perhaps the ultimate motivation is selfishness. I'd like to think there's a bit more to it than that, even though I am the one who benefits the most.
Success
Read an article this morning. The basic premise was that the key to success is to feel gratitude. The article went on to explain that the emotion of gratitude is like a muscle and the more one exercises it the stronger and more resilient it becomes.
I've long felt that gratitude is huge in our lives. And as important as repentance is in our daily reconciling with Heavenly Father, I believe gratitude is its worthy companion.
Tonight one thing I'm grateful for is that I wasn't sitting near that old guy (at Olive Garden) who was sitting at the table combing his hair. He actually had quite nice mostly gray hair, thick and wavy and a tad longer than lots of men. But, really....combing it at the table in a restaurant?
On a more serious thought - I love September. I'm so grateful to see the end of the really hot summer weather. I love the cooler nights. I love the sense of settling in, snuggling down for the pending winter.
All during the night last night and throughout the day we've had some weather. Cooler temps, lots of clouds being tossed through the sky by the wind, and later this afternoon and evening some pretty substantial thunder and lighting punctuated with rain.
Was called out on the back patio just before 8 p.m. to see this:
It looked almost like the sky was sending a good-night smile. (ya, I know, it's upside down, but it still looked like happiness to me.) In my mind, gratitude generally (if not always) equals happiness. Tonight I'm grateful for rainbows.
I've long felt that gratitude is huge in our lives. And as important as repentance is in our daily reconciling with Heavenly Father, I believe gratitude is its worthy companion.
Tonight one thing I'm grateful for is that I wasn't sitting near that old guy (at Olive Garden) who was sitting at the table combing his hair. He actually had quite nice mostly gray hair, thick and wavy and a tad longer than lots of men. But, really....combing it at the table in a restaurant?
On a more serious thought - I love September. I'm so grateful to see the end of the really hot summer weather. I love the cooler nights. I love the sense of settling in, snuggling down for the pending winter.
All during the night last night and throughout the day we've had some weather. Cooler temps, lots of clouds being tossed through the sky by the wind, and later this afternoon and evening some pretty substantial thunder and lighting punctuated with rain.
Was called out on the back patio just before 8 p.m. to see this:
It looked almost like the sky was sending a good-night smile. (ya, I know, it's upside down, but it still looked like happiness to me.) In my mind, gratitude generally (if not always) equals happiness. Tonight I'm grateful for rainbows.
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