Just before lunch I heard a whoop from The Husband's office. He had just received word that the PSC (Public Service Commission) had declined to approve Rocky Mountain Power's request for an additional fee on net metering customers - generally those with solar panels.
Unbelievable.
It isn't over by any stretch of the imagination.
The power company will be back. They've said so. But this time, they'll come back with evidence from some real studies as to whether the fee is justified. They won't be in front of the PSC again without having done some real work.
It will be a long, hard issue to resolve. Even the PSC (consisting of 3 members) couldn't agree amongst them what the ruling should be - there was one abstaining member. The attorneys are assured of income for some time to come.
Still...The Husband did an amazing thing. He worked hard, around his day-job, nights, weekends, without any legal training - to stop the monopoly from having their wants just rubber-stamped. His contribution was, in my opinion, essential to today's ruling. It took courage and determination and perseverance and I am so pleased for him. One person can make a difference.
Soap
I like bar soap in the shower. And not just any bar soap, but floral scented bar soap. (I don't want fruit scented soap - I dislike smelling of food.) Picky, yes, I am.
My ancient back-of-the-cupboard discovered plumeria scented soap is almost gone. Time for some new. Went on a quest the other day and ended up in The Body Shop where I found some soap that will do, although it wasn't quite what I had in mind. Bought four bars. They'll last me awhile.
Brought them home to put away in the cupboard and wow! (Re-) discovered two bars (large chunks really) of rose scented soap The Husband had gifted me quite some time ago. The large rose soaps last months at a time, particularly when there's only me using them and only each morning in the shower. Won't be needing any floral scented bar soaps for most likely several years. I so love the way flowers smell.
Came across this quote recently that I haven't been able to get out of my mind. How grateful I am to occasionally (and at just the right time) happen on someone whose kindness breathes a spark of life back into my heart.
In everyone's life, at some time, our inner fire goes out. It is then burst into flame by an encounter with another human being. We should all be thankful for those people who rekindle the inner spirit.
My ancient back-of-the-cupboard discovered plumeria scented soap is almost gone. Time for some new. Went on a quest the other day and ended up in The Body Shop where I found some soap that will do, although it wasn't quite what I had in mind. Bought four bars. They'll last me awhile.Brought them home to put away in the cupboard and wow! (Re-) discovered two bars (large chunks really) of rose scented soap The Husband had gifted me quite some time ago. The large rose soaps last months at a time, particularly when there's only me using them and only each morning in the shower. Won't be needing any floral scented bar soaps for most likely several years. I so love the way flowers smell.Came across this quote recently that I haven't been able to get out of my mind. How grateful I am to occasionally (and at just the right time) happen on someone whose kindness breathes a spark of life back into my heart.
In everyone's life, at some time, our inner fire goes out. It is then burst into flame by an encounter with another human being. We should all be thankful for those people who rekindle the inner spirit.
August
This has been the strangest August ever. I don't think our air conditioning has been on for a week - maybe more. First it was the "monsoon" moisture (which they say is a weather pattern, not specifically storms) then it was a series of storms. We've had lots and lots of rain.
We stood on the front porch for a bit last evening watching the lightning show in the sky - followed, of course, by the thunder, sometimes nearly simultaneously. Our family includes members who lovelovelove the rain/lightning/thunder. It really was exhilarating to see. (Though I was relieved when The Husband made it home from his meeting with the ginormous umbrella intact and it hadn't acted as a lightning rod!)
Since it was so wet out this morning my twice-a-week walking partner begged off and I got to walk alone. Chose to walk the circuit to the library and home - returning books validated my need for a morning walk. Reached the park and couldn't figure out why the sprinklers were creating such dense water. Only to find as I walked closer it wasn't the sprinklers but a heavy mist the likes of which I've only seen when we've visited the east / south. Even though it dissipated the closer I got I still managed to capture the flavor with my phone. (When I returned home our weather station registered 94% humidity. Yes, really, in Utah.)
I read an article in this morning's paper by a young mother - whose editorials I don't often read. Today I mostly liked what she wrote as she explained the things she considered / hoped for as her daughter starts the school year. She emphasized the need for kindness. I enjoyed her thoughts - and agreed with her - more than I expected to. Since we have several grandchildren starting new schools this year she struck a chord with me.
I'm grateful I read her words on kindness. They were a reminder to me that I need to be kinder and less frustrated with those who seem to lack the desire to put others first. It prompted me to sit down and write a note to a sister we visit teach, who can be a challenge, and be kinder than I am naturally wont to be. I'm grateful there are others who value kindness. I hope my loved ones run into those who do - and practice that same attribute.
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| Unusual mist. |
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| Yet another lovely sunrise. |
I'm grateful I read her words on kindness. They were a reminder to me that I need to be kinder and less frustrated with those who seem to lack the desire to put others first. It prompted me to sit down and write a note to a sister we visit teach, who can be a challenge, and be kinder than I am naturally wont to be. I'm grateful there are others who value kindness. I hope my loved ones run into those who do - and practice that same attribute.
Flowers and Stitches
• Had a lovely walk by myself this morning - perfectly cool and the morning quiet provided nourishment to my spirit.
• Walked past these morning glory plants. When I was a youngster I loved the morning glory - the way they'd be open early. I loved their colors against the green. Now I understand what a nuisance they can be. (The Husband theorizes there's a mother morning glory plant somewhere deep in the earth from which all surface morning glories spring. He despises them since they are near impossible to eradicate and encroach pretty much everywhere.) I still like them - their shape, the colors - they're a happy flower.
• I have an issue with my phone. Yes, it's a smartphone. So smart it corrects my words and spelling when I text. Which often is fine, the person I'm texting can manage to get the gist of my message in spite of an over zealous auto-correct. But for some unknown reason my phone refuses to let me enter "hope". It always replaces it with the word "hippie". I use the word hope quite a lot. Hippie - not so much, if ever. Even when I go back and fix hippie to hope my phone will still change it. What message is the universe sending me? (If anyone in my small circle gets a text from me that says "hippie" just translate it to "hope" and we'll be fine.)
• I've been working on a project. I'm sort of a fussbudget about my sewing - always a bit frustrated by my inability to make things perfect. I'd love to be an expert needlewoman (maybe in my next life?) but it just isn't in me - I haven't the ability to achieve that level of skill, wishes notwithstanding. I love counted cross-stitch for the precision the medium allows. Always thought that stamped cross-stitch was for less competent stitchers. What little I knew! The ink and the threads will never conspire to be perfect - ain't gonna happen, no way. I'll finish this project but will be somewhat embarrassed to present it as a gift. In spite of doing my very best (and laboring many hours) , it will look somewhat amateurish. Perhaps the recipient will be able to look past the attempt and see the love I shared with every pass of the needle.
Today I'm grateful to see a friendly neighbor at the store and be welcomed with a smile and quick chat. Kind souls will ever be needed and sometimes seem in too short supply. I'm grateful an for offer of a place to stay should we venture to explore across the pond. I'm grateful for Heavenly Father's creation of hugs.
• Walked past these morning glory plants. When I was a youngster I loved the morning glory - the way they'd be open early. I loved their colors against the green. Now I understand what a nuisance they can be. (The Husband theorizes there's a mother morning glory plant somewhere deep in the earth from which all surface morning glories spring. He despises them since they are near impossible to eradicate and encroach pretty much everywhere.) I still like them - their shape, the colors - they're a happy flower.• I have an issue with my phone. Yes, it's a smartphone. So smart it corrects my words and spelling when I text. Which often is fine, the person I'm texting can manage to get the gist of my message in spite of an over zealous auto-correct. But for some unknown reason my phone refuses to let me enter "hope". It always replaces it with the word "hippie". I use the word hope quite a lot. Hippie - not so much, if ever. Even when I go back and fix hippie to hope my phone will still change it. What message is the universe sending me? (If anyone in my small circle gets a text from me that says "hippie" just translate it to "hope" and we'll be fine.)
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| Perfection eludes me. |
Today I'm grateful to see a friendly neighbor at the store and be welcomed with a smile and quick chat. Kind souls will ever be needed and sometimes seem in too short supply. I'm grateful an for offer of a place to stay should we venture to explore across the pond. I'm grateful for Heavenly Father's creation of hugs.
My Thoughts Are All Over The Place
Sitting in Primary yesterday, waiting for my turn at the piano - lost in my thoughts - I suddenly realized my sweet little bespectacled friend was standing in front of me waiting to get my attention. Just standing there. Waiting. Patiently. She was most anxious to tell me about her two cousins visiting with her and how fun it was. She has such a delight for life! I love that she's always ready to share that delight with me. It totally brightened my Sunday.
Went for a walk this morning - it was howling wind but I could have walked in it forever. Rounded a small corner of the trail and came upon this grave - new since last week. Once again, I wished to know the whole story. I imagine someone carefully placed their pet under that pile of rocks. Tugged at my heart a little. (But then the cynic in me wonders if it isn't just some kids fooling around. My heart and my reason are often at odds with each other.)
Headed out earlier and stopped at a farm-stand. I so love that experience. There's something "grounding" about being able to purchase seasonal food grown locally direct from the harvest. It somehow feeds something in my soul. And then later feeds my body. I guess that connection is for my whole being. Sound sappy? Yes, perhaps it does. But it just feels good to me. (A favorite memory: driving through South Carolina and buying the most ginormous fresh peaches - and being frustrated at the wasted juices dripped down my arms and onto the ground. I can almost taste it still.)
Went for a walk this morning - it was howling wind but I could have walked in it forever. Rounded a small corner of the trail and came upon this grave - new since last week. Once again, I wished to know the whole story. I imagine someone carefully placed their pet under that pile of rocks. Tugged at my heart a little. (But then the cynic in me wonders if it isn't just some kids fooling around. My heart and my reason are often at odds with each other.)
It's almost soup season!
Paint the interior of the house? Or splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime trip across the pond? It frightens me to even think of it. Then my reason steps in and says why not? Be adventuresome! Make some brand new memories! The Husband is much braver than I.
I'm grateful today for middle of the night storms that remind me how snug and safe I feel inside our comfortable home. For rain that nourishes the earth. For gorgeous sunrises. For roses. And for arms that hold me tight and ease some heart-pain. For selflessness.
Weekend
Not sure how I feel about the weekend so far.
• Should have opened the mail in reverse order. Instead I got the good news first - then the bad. I'm definitely a good news last kind of person. I'd have rather opened the bill first and the unexpected refund check (for several hundred dollars) last.
• Headed out to run some errands. They're always more fun, go faster and lighten my burden better when they're shared with someone I care about.
• I'm officially done with Facebook.
• Having rigorously adhered to good eating principles this entire week, we had some treats today. Culver's frozen custard and a kouign aman made for delightful eating but managed to give me a bit of indigestion. Guess I shouldn't indulge quite so heavily.
• Trying out some cream on my aching foot. Arthritis can be more painful than I've thus far experienced. This stuff takes up to two weeks to help. I'm on day 5. I think I feel a bit of relief. I refuse to let it get me down. (Between my foot and The Husband's mouth we've been a teensy whiny lately.)
• Pulled a steak from the freezer that The Husband grilled for our dinner. Added a salad, fresh sliced tomato, fresh cantaloupe and we had a wonderful meal.
• Received a text from a little sweetheart of mine.
• Replenished my (completely empty) basket of library books.
• I managed to mostly sleep through the thunder and lightning at 4:30 this morning. When it's cool and there's just a small breeze it's the best sleeping weather!
• Am supposed to accompany someone in church tomorrow. Haven't heard a word from her. So maybe I'll get a bye.
Tonight I'm grateful for unselfish people. For the ability to repent of my mis-steps. And that it's ok to have a treat once in a while, knowing that tomorrow we'll be ready to return to our better / healthier eating.
• Should have opened the mail in reverse order. Instead I got the good news first - then the bad. I'm definitely a good news last kind of person. I'd have rather opened the bill first and the unexpected refund check (for several hundred dollars) last.
• Headed out to run some errands. They're always more fun, go faster and lighten my burden better when they're shared with someone I care about.
• I'm officially done with Facebook.
• Having rigorously adhered to good eating principles this entire week, we had some treats today. Culver's frozen custard and a kouign aman made for delightful eating but managed to give me a bit of indigestion. Guess I shouldn't indulge quite so heavily.
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| Made from hot peppers. |
• Pulled a steak from the freezer that The Husband grilled for our dinner. Added a salad, fresh sliced tomato, fresh cantaloupe and we had a wonderful meal.
• Received a text from a little sweetheart of mine.
• Replenished my (completely empty) basket of library books.
• I managed to mostly sleep through the thunder and lightning at 4:30 this morning. When it's cool and there's just a small breeze it's the best sleeping weather!
• Am supposed to accompany someone in church tomorrow. Haven't heard a word from her. So maybe I'll get a bye.
Tonight I'm grateful for unselfish people. For the ability to repent of my mis-steps. And that it's ok to have a treat once in a while, knowing that tomorrow we'll be ready to return to our better / healthier eating.
Sunrise
There wasn't much of a sunrise this morning, too many heavy clouds. So the air just sort of lightened and grew bright enough to see.
Read this description of the morning - made me wish I had the aptitude with words that this writer does.
"One of the perks of getting out early every morning is that I get to see the sun come up. A gob-smackingly glorious sunrise at the start of the day is practically a daily event around here, and every one of them is absolutely free of charge. ...I always stop whatever I'm doing and take them in. I'd hate to think I'd gotten so jaded that I didn't recognize a gift from heaven when it was staring me right in the face....It was the kind of sunrise that practically begs you to pull out your cell phone and capture its magnificent beauty for the benefit of generations to come--but it didn't fool me. I've learned the hard way that it's only when you take a picture and look at it later that you realize it's all an elaborate trick. The true glory of a sunrise is that it's fleeting. Try to freeze it in time, and the very core of its beauty is lost."
I read that and felt like I'd met a kindred spirit - another soul that revels in the dawn of the day as much as I do. Delightful!
And while I enjoy having company and not being out there alone in my feelings, I often think I'm all alone in the crowd. I think differently than others, and am fully aware that I don't march with all the rest. Understanding that we are all unique, I often feel out of place because I'm different.
Still, there can be value and beauty in standing (all by one's self) tall. Take this pretty little flower amongst the weeds. I'm not sure if I'm the pretty little flower amongst the weeds, or if I'm the weed amongst the flowers. I'd like to say it doesn't matter, that there's room for all of us. That's at least the ideal anyway: a place (and room for) everyone.
I'm grateful that we aren't all the same. It's sometimes difficult to be the "odd one out". But I think life would be much less colorful and interesting if we all were the same. (Part of this is offshoot thinking after having just finished reading The Giver by Lois Lowry in preparation for the movie that I now think I won't be seeing.) Sameness isn't enriching.
I spent some time today at the back door trying to spot the bird whose song I noticed. It wasn't a song I recognized. But it was lovely. I never did manage to identify the bird, but am so grateful it left behind its music.
Read this description of the morning - made me wish I had the aptitude with words that this writer does.
"One of the perks of getting out early every morning is that I get to see the sun come up. A gob-smackingly glorious sunrise at the start of the day is practically a daily event around here, and every one of them is absolutely free of charge. ...I always stop whatever I'm doing and take them in. I'd hate to think I'd gotten so jaded that I didn't recognize a gift from heaven when it was staring me right in the face....It was the kind of sunrise that practically begs you to pull out your cell phone and capture its magnificent beauty for the benefit of generations to come--but it didn't fool me. I've learned the hard way that it's only when you take a picture and look at it later that you realize it's all an elaborate trick. The true glory of a sunrise is that it's fleeting. Try to freeze it in time, and the very core of its beauty is lost."
I read that and felt like I'd met a kindred spirit - another soul that revels in the dawn of the day as much as I do. Delightful!
And while I enjoy having company and not being out there alone in my feelings, I often think I'm all alone in the crowd. I think differently than others, and am fully aware that I don't march with all the rest. Understanding that we are all unique, I often feel out of place because I'm different.
Still, there can be value and beauty in standing (all by one's self) tall. Take this pretty little flower amongst the weeds. I'm not sure if I'm the pretty little flower amongst the weeds, or if I'm the weed amongst the flowers. I'd like to say it doesn't matter, that there's room for all of us. That's at least the ideal anyway: a place (and room for) everyone. I'm grateful that we aren't all the same. It's sometimes difficult to be the "odd one out". But I think life would be much less colorful and interesting if we all were the same. (Part of this is offshoot thinking after having just finished reading The Giver by Lois Lowry in preparation for the movie that I now think I won't be seeing.) Sameness isn't enriching.
I spent some time today at the back door trying to spot the bird whose song I noticed. It wasn't a song I recognized. But it was lovely. I never did manage to identify the bird, but am so grateful it left behind its music.
Books / Place
Started a new book this afternoon - one I requested from the library a long long time ago. 3 pages in and I was done. (I so dislike filthy language. And I have sort of a mental rule. If it appears on the first few pages - and with frequency - then that book is history. Recommendations notwithstanding - there is too much to read that will lift me to waste time on something that won't.)
So then I picked up the next book from my little stack. This one was an author I'd read before so I knew I was safe. Got to page 30 and read this: "I envied him. It must be nice to know exactly where your place in life is."
That started the old mental gears turning. Where exactly is my place in life? I've long wondered that very thing.
For much of my childhood my place was the middle child - the one expected to fill that middle slot, to be quiet, be obedient and behave.
Then I married (YAY!) and found that my place was the usual wife/mother slot. Happy to do it. (Often wished I was better equipped for that position, but still, I gave it a valiant effort.) The mothering part sort of ebbs as the children fledge the nest. The wife part is still a joy.
But is there more? Is there an exact place for someone like me in this world? Someone fairly ordinary without fame, fortune, beauty or talent?
Why Yes! There is! My Place: the fixer of inside-out hoods on other people's apparel. And cleaner of glasses! Walking through the grocery the other day, I noticed this young teen with her Mom and sibs in the aisles. (We seemed to have the same shopping pattern.) I noticed her cute glasses. Wondered how she could possibly see through such cloudy lenses. Had to restrain myself from whipping out my glasses cleaning accoutrements to fix her vision.
I guess that's an ok place for me to be. It is important to be able to see a person's eyes - and equally important for them to be able to see the world.
The Husband has begun a tradition that I am thoroughly enjoying. There's a little shop at the airport he's become loyal to. Whenever he goes into the office he stops in at this little shop just before boarding his plane heading for home. He buys these little packages of chocolates. They're a pretty good deal - especially for airport fare. He usually buys three packs. I hoard them, savor the knowing I can have one whenever I want. They're just the right size to share (or not, depending on my level of chocolate need and whether or not I'm alone.) I am the lucky beneficiary of The Husband's generosity - on so many levels!
Today I'm grateful again for my little rain slicker. Grabbed it on my way out the door this morning knowing I would be graced with heaven's moisture before I made it home. What a lovely walk I had: the sky was an ever changing delight to my eyes, both in light and color, the temperature just perfect for my rain jacket, the trail less busy because of the rain and my shoes supported my aching foot enough to do 4 1/2 miles.
And I'm so grateful for my ability to read. My enjoyment of that has added untold dimension to my life.
So then I picked up the next book from my little stack. This one was an author I'd read before so I knew I was safe. Got to page 30 and read this: "I envied him. It must be nice to know exactly where your place in life is."
That started the old mental gears turning. Where exactly is my place in life? I've long wondered that very thing.
For much of my childhood my place was the middle child - the one expected to fill that middle slot, to be quiet, be obedient and behave.
Then I married (YAY!) and found that my place was the usual wife/mother slot. Happy to do it. (Often wished I was better equipped for that position, but still, I gave it a valiant effort.) The mothering part sort of ebbs as the children fledge the nest. The wife part is still a joy.
But is there more? Is there an exact place for someone like me in this world? Someone fairly ordinary without fame, fortune, beauty or talent?
Why Yes! There is! My Place: the fixer of inside-out hoods on other people's apparel. And cleaner of glasses! Walking through the grocery the other day, I noticed this young teen with her Mom and sibs in the aisles. (We seemed to have the same shopping pattern.) I noticed her cute glasses. Wondered how she could possibly see through such cloudy lenses. Had to restrain myself from whipping out my glasses cleaning accoutrements to fix her vision.
I guess that's an ok place for me to be. It is important to be able to see a person's eyes - and equally important for them to be able to see the world.
The Husband has begun a tradition that I am thoroughly enjoying. There's a little shop at the airport he's become loyal to. Whenever he goes into the office he stops in at this little shop just before boarding his plane heading for home. He buys these little packages of chocolates. They're a pretty good deal - especially for airport fare. He usually buys three packs. I hoard them, savor the knowing I can have one whenever I want. They're just the right size to share (or not, depending on my level of chocolate need and whether or not I'm alone.) I am the lucky beneficiary of The Husband's generosity - on so many levels!Today I'm grateful again for my little rain slicker. Grabbed it on my way out the door this morning knowing I would be graced with heaven's moisture before I made it home. What a lovely walk I had: the sky was an ever changing delight to my eyes, both in light and color, the temperature just perfect for my rain jacket, the trail less busy because of the rain and my shoes supported my aching foot enough to do 4 1/2 miles.
And I'm so grateful for my ability to read. My enjoyment of that has added untold dimension to my life.
Wishes
This Monday finds me with a few wishes:
• Wish I had slept better last night.
• Wish I had managed to get a picture of the coyote we saw loping across the field. (Fortunately he was headed away from us rather than toward, although he did stop to look at us for a minute. Glad we weren't the only ones who saw him.)
• Wish I had a knack for cooking - grocery shopping might be more interesting that way.
• Wish I had a nickel for each smile I saw, I could get a snow cone!
• Wish I weren't quite so clumsy. (Provided a couple smiles for others that way.)
• Wish my foot were pain free.
• Wish we could see some of our chilluns/ grandchilluns more often.
• Wish the the little farm stand up the hill would post prices - I think I get charged differently (for the same stuff) each time I go there.
• Wish I hadn't tried on my swim-suit this morning (in preparation for our beach trip). Not a good way to start Monday. I've got that "old matron plumpness"thing going on. :^(
• Wish people would recognize that other drivers might have the right of way and to yield / be careful.
• Wish I would remember things when I need them rather than after the fact.
On the other hand:
• Since I slept so poorly last night and have walked a fair amount today, I'm likely to sleep really well tonight.
• Even though I didn't get a picture, it was so great to see the wildlife in the area. I heard a couple meadowlarks and lots of other morning greetings from the songbirds. And the trail wasn't very busy.
• Even though we eat very simply, and plain food, there is plenty - we never go hungry.
• I may be clumsy but that keeps me careful.
• My foot may hurt, but I've got comfy shoes and two feet that still manage to carry me around (though it would be nice if I had even a teensy speck of grace.)
• If we can't see the relatives very often, I'm grateful for video chats, for texting, for email and for those relatives who choose to use them to stay in touch.
• Fresh ready-to-eat watermelon, cantaloupe, tomatoes, corn-on-the-cob: delightful whatever the price.
• Fortunately the beach trip is after high season, it will be less crowded, I can wear things to cover-up the fat and I'm so old nobody cares anyway. (Thanks, My Love, for loving me anyway.)
• I'm thankful my car has great brakes - even though I had the right of way and she's an oblivious selfish (dare I be so unkind?).
• I remember those I love and I guess that's more important.
Proverb of the day: Nice always matters. (Now if I can only put that into practice - always.)
• Wish I had slept better last night.
• Wish I had managed to get a picture of the coyote we saw loping across the field. (Fortunately he was headed away from us rather than toward, although he did stop to look at us for a minute. Glad we weren't the only ones who saw him.)
• Wish I had a knack for cooking - grocery shopping might be more interesting that way.
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| Stunning morning sky! |
• Wish I weren't quite so clumsy. (Provided a couple smiles for others that way.)
• Wish my foot were pain free.
• Wish we could see some of our chilluns/ grandchilluns more often.
• Wish the the little farm stand up the hill would post prices - I think I get charged differently (for the same stuff) each time I go there.
• Wish I hadn't tried on my swim-suit this morning (in preparation for our beach trip). Not a good way to start Monday. I've got that "old matron plumpness"thing going on. :^(
• Wish people would recognize that other drivers might have the right of way and to yield / be careful.
• Wish I would remember things when I need them rather than after the fact.
On the other hand:
• Since I slept so poorly last night and have walked a fair amount today, I'm likely to sleep really well tonight.
• Even though I didn't get a picture, it was so great to see the wildlife in the area. I heard a couple meadowlarks and lots of other morning greetings from the songbirds. And the trail wasn't very busy.
• Even though we eat very simply, and plain food, there is plenty - we never go hungry.
• I may be clumsy but that keeps me careful.
• My foot may hurt, but I've got comfy shoes and two feet that still manage to carry me around (though it would be nice if I had even a teensy speck of grace.)
• If we can't see the relatives very often, I'm grateful for video chats, for texting, for email and for those relatives who choose to use them to stay in touch.
• Fresh ready-to-eat watermelon, cantaloupe, tomatoes, corn-on-the-cob: delightful whatever the price.
• Fortunately the beach trip is after high season, it will be less crowded, I can wear things to cover-up the fat and I'm so old nobody cares anyway. (Thanks, My Love, for loving me anyway.)
• I'm thankful my car has great brakes - even though I had the right of way and she's an oblivious selfish (dare I be so unkind?).
• I remember those I love and I guess that's more important.
Proverb of the day: Nice always matters. (Now if I can only put that into practice - always.)
No Pictures Today
But I still have a few thoughts.
Saw the movie The Hundred Foot Journey the other night. I so enjoyed it. Our husbands were good sports about seeing something a bit less shoot-em-up and I think even ended up glad they succumbed to female pressure. Such a refreshing change.
Then saw Hercules. I don't do well with the kind of violence shown in that film - people mad and crazy to injure, maim and kill another in as gruesome a fashion as possible. I don't like that display of the deep dark despicable part of a person. (I didn't mind, however the display of great muscles.)
There was however, a good line (the only one I remembered that I liked / agreed with): the man who wants nothing is the man who has no price. Yep.
I'm still learning (at my advanced age) to be independent. To not hurt so much when I'm not included in stuff. Seems like a long process.
It appears everyone around me is a runner. The majority of cars around sport the window stickers 26.2 or 13.1. Somehow I always feel like it's a subtle finger-point at those who don't run, an expression of superiority, of belonging to an exclusive club. Imagine my delight when I saw this window sticker the other day: 0.0. A non-runner! YAY! Reminding me once again that we don't all need to be the same and in fact it's likely best that we aren't all the same.
Churros from Morelia's are the best. Handmade. From scratch. None of those uniform mass-produced ones. These were delightful (even for white bread). Worth the carbs.
I can feel a hint of fall in the air. The last few nights have been in the 50's. Enough for a light blanket and good sleeping. I so enjoy the cooler weather. (And no, I'm not ready for Christmas, am trying to avoid thinking about it, all that stress and effort to be kind and thoughtful with little impact. Maybe I'll skip it this year.)
Today I'm grateful for windows that open letting in the fresh night air, for people who keep their dogs from barking every second and for ibuprofen to soften the arthritis pain in my foot. Walking is much more fun than hobbling.
Saw the movie The Hundred Foot Journey the other night. I so enjoyed it. Our husbands were good sports about seeing something a bit less shoot-em-up and I think even ended up glad they succumbed to female pressure. Such a refreshing change.
Then saw Hercules. I don't do well with the kind of violence shown in that film - people mad and crazy to injure, maim and kill another in as gruesome a fashion as possible. I don't like that display of the deep dark despicable part of a person. (I didn't mind, however the display of great muscles.)
There was however, a good line (the only one I remembered that I liked / agreed with): the man who wants nothing is the man who has no price. Yep.
I'm still learning (at my advanced age) to be independent. To not hurt so much when I'm not included in stuff. Seems like a long process.
It appears everyone around me is a runner. The majority of cars around sport the window stickers 26.2 or 13.1. Somehow I always feel like it's a subtle finger-point at those who don't run, an expression of superiority, of belonging to an exclusive club. Imagine my delight when I saw this window sticker the other day: 0.0. A non-runner! YAY! Reminding me once again that we don't all need to be the same and in fact it's likely best that we aren't all the same.
Churros from Morelia's are the best. Handmade. From scratch. None of those uniform mass-produced ones. These were delightful (even for white bread). Worth the carbs.
I can feel a hint of fall in the air. The last few nights have been in the 50's. Enough for a light blanket and good sleeping. I so enjoy the cooler weather. (And no, I'm not ready for Christmas, am trying to avoid thinking about it, all that stress and effort to be kind and thoughtful with little impact. Maybe I'll skip it this year.)
Today I'm grateful for windows that open letting in the fresh night air, for people who keep their dogs from barking every second and for ibuprofen to soften the arthritis pain in my foot. Walking is much more fun than hobbling.
Reason
One of the reasons I like Thursdays so much is because that's usually the day The Husband comes home (when he travels). In support of that fact, he is even now on the plane heading for home. I will sleep better tonight.
Had a delightful day yesterday just doing exactly what I wanted to do. Loved it.
Was startled awake at 5:20 a.m. by a pretty loud crack of thunder, followed almost immediately by the lightning and then the pelting down of rain. Really hard rain. For about ten minutes. After scurrying around closing the windows then of course, the rain stopped. Figuring I'd be inside on the treadmill I finally ventured out on the front porch to assess the sky. Fairly clear, so I braved the trail and had a wonderful walk. By myself. Going my pace. Thinking, praying, finally listening to my iPod. I love watching the day waken out on the trail.
Had a phone call from someone I don't usually hear from. It brightened my day. And...I'm getting better at ignoring calls from numbers I don't recognize.
Was nice to be invited to a baby shower. She's a sweetie and will be a very cute Mom.
I really like when I have things to look forward to. Right now I have a couple, or three or four. 1) The Husband will be home soon. 2) Haircut in the morning, I always feel better after a good haircut. I'll plan on tomorrow's being a good one. 3) Food and a movie with some friends of ours on Saturday. 4) Some books to read, and one waiting for me to retrieve from the library 5) A trip to the beach! YAY! (Number 5 is a bonus - and bonuses are pretty much always good!)
I'm grateful tonight for people who are kind. For garages to keep the cars clean and safe. For alarm systems that enable a bit of sleep when The Husband is away. For chocolate.
Had a delightful day yesterday just doing exactly what I wanted to do. Loved it.
Was startled awake at 5:20 a.m. by a pretty loud crack of thunder, followed almost immediately by the lightning and then the pelting down of rain. Really hard rain. For about ten minutes. After scurrying around closing the windows then of course, the rain stopped. Figuring I'd be inside on the treadmill I finally ventured out on the front porch to assess the sky. Fairly clear, so I braved the trail and had a wonderful walk. By myself. Going my pace. Thinking, praying, finally listening to my iPod. I love watching the day waken out on the trail.
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| Beautiful morning sky after the rain. |
Was nice to be invited to a baby shower. She's a sweetie and will be a very cute Mom.
I really like when I have things to look forward to. Right now I have a couple, or three or four. 1) The Husband will be home soon. 2) Haircut in the morning, I always feel better after a good haircut. I'll plan on tomorrow's being a good one. 3) Food and a movie with some friends of ours on Saturday. 4) Some books to read, and one waiting for me to retrieve from the library 5) A trip to the beach! YAY! (Number 5 is a bonus - and bonuses are pretty much always good!)
I'm grateful tonight for people who are kind. For garages to keep the cars clean and safe. For alarm systems that enable a bit of sleep when The Husband is away. For chocolate.
Halfway There
To The Husband's arrival! It's been ok so far, I've managed to keep pretty busy.This book was left for me to read - it's a short read. But oh, how fabulous! Mr. Saunders was invited to give the convocation address at Syracuse University. How I wish I had heard him give this in person. His basic premise is to be kind; that there are plenty of things you can regret in life, but you will never regret being kind. And if you pass up opportunities to be kind you will regret those lost opportunities. And the kinder you are, the more those impulses to be kind will fill you and find outlet.
This is one of those things that everyone wants to share because it has such impact.
Today I'm grateful for people who don't just walk past you in the store, but stop and get your attention so you can share some conversation. I'm grateful for thoughtful people who find good books to share. I'm grateful for video chats on my computer. I'm grateful for the way the air smells just after the rain.
And I'm grateful for those who are kind, who teach me by their example how I should be. I'll continue to strive for that.
Anxious
I'm a bit anxious. Certain things around this house are concerning me. Here's a short list:
1. The washing machine is making funny noises. (The last time I had it looked at the repairman said they are really only made to last about 10 years these days. We're going on 14 years with it, I feel like I'm living on borrowed time.)
2. The refrigerator seems to be having difficulty maintaining the desired coldness. (We've had to keep setting the temperature knob higher. This appliance is also going on 14 years.)
3. We've lived without a light in the microwave for several years - now the touchpad is loose - it feels like it has separated from it's mounting. (Also nearly 14 years old.)
4. We recently got a new router. Our home phone line is actually a VOIP. Now if the phone rings nothing happens when we answer - only dead air. (The Husband will fix it I'm sure when he finds a minute or two.)
5. I was gifted a new FITBIT. I've loved my Zip. Someone thought I needed to upgrade my model. Spent quite some time on Saturday trying to activate the new One. With absolutely no success (although the battery on the new One did charge with no trouble). FITBIT has no phone support, everything has to be done via email. So an email we sent. Thus far we've had no reply. I'm anxious and antsy. I have a new gadget. I want to use it!
I am easily frustrated and irritable when things don't work the way they should. I am also, though, unwilling to spend money on new things when the old ones are limping along. I just have this vision in my head of all our money - that The Husband works so hard to earn - sprouting wings and just flying off into outer space, completely disappearing.
It's a tad difficult for me to find something positive about my anxiety. I don't like feeling anxious about stuff. I think I need to focus on being grateful that we have all these luxuries instead of my unease and worry. I am hopeful. Hopeful the appliances will keep plugging along and that the issues with the other things can be resolved. Hope will keep me going.
1. The washing machine is making funny noises. (The last time I had it looked at the repairman said they are really only made to last about 10 years these days. We're going on 14 years with it, I feel like I'm living on borrowed time.)
2. The refrigerator seems to be having difficulty maintaining the desired coldness. (We've had to keep setting the temperature knob higher. This appliance is also going on 14 years.)
3. We've lived without a light in the microwave for several years - now the touchpad is loose - it feels like it has separated from it's mounting. (Also nearly 14 years old.)
4. We recently got a new router. Our home phone line is actually a VOIP. Now if the phone rings nothing happens when we answer - only dead air. (The Husband will fix it I'm sure when he finds a minute or two.)
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| Zip (old) left, One (new) right |
5. I was gifted a new FITBIT. I've loved my Zip. Someone thought I needed to upgrade my model. Spent quite some time on Saturday trying to activate the new One. With absolutely no success (although the battery on the new One did charge with no trouble). FITBIT has no phone support, everything has to be done via email. So an email we sent. Thus far we've had no reply. I'm anxious and antsy. I have a new gadget. I want to use it!
I am easily frustrated and irritable when things don't work the way they should. I am also, though, unwilling to spend money on new things when the old ones are limping along. I just have this vision in my head of all our money - that The Husband works so hard to earn - sprouting wings and just flying off into outer space, completely disappearing.
It's a tad difficult for me to find something positive about my anxiety. I don't like feeling anxious about stuff. I think I need to focus on being grateful that we have all these luxuries instead of my unease and worry. I am hopeful. Hopeful the appliances will keep plugging along and that the issues with the other things can be resolved. Hope will keep me going.
Monday Morning
It was a strange weekend. We puttered, slept in, puttered, movied, ate, and just generally enjoyed being around each other knowing that we'd be apart this week. I am so grateful for a job that he enjoys. I'll be even more grateful come Thursday 11:00 p.m. when he returns home.Friday morning on the way to the dentist we looked off to the west and loved the view! About 5 or 6 hot air balloons were rising in the sky. One looked like the basket was entangled in the top of a tree. They were close and pretty and reminded us of that anniversary trip we took and rode in a hot air balloon. Loved it! The Husband took this picture out the sun roof as I was driving along - pretty good for holding the phone/camera up through the roof and snapping the shot while tooling along at 40 mph (on a bumpy road).
Treated ourselves to a small kettle corn at the movie. That popcorn was the best thing about that 2 hours. Into The Storm shoulda stayed out of the storm. It was barely worth the $7.75 we spent for admission (had a coupon for a matinee for $1). Next weekend's fare promises to be much much better.
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| Too bad there's so much haze in the air. |
And I'm going over things in my head - I think I've managed to come up with a fairly busy week. I like to fill my time extra full when The Husband is gone, seems less lonesome that way.
This morning I'm grateful for shoes that don't hurt my feet, for a home where I feel comfortable and secure, cellphones to keep in touch and for something to look forward to. Pretty good for a Monday morning.
I Generally Like Fridays
And so far this one has been no exception. I got to get out with The Husband first thing this morning and in the process chat with some kind people. (Even though going to the dentist wouldn't be my first choice of places to find people to chat with. At least it was The Husband being worked on and not me; and yes, he's doing fine. Our bank account not so much.)
It was still 72 out on our way home so the car windows were down. A young man driving parallel to us for quite some way down the road also had his windows down - and his radio cranked and was belting out the song. Quite unselfconsciously. I wished I could have better heard the song so we could have sung along with him. A song-jam traveling down the road, might have been fun. (Though I think The Husband has the better voice.)
We were poking along behind a small pickup that finally pulled over to the side of the road. Of course we had to look see who was driving so indecisively and all either one of us noticed was his old-fashioned thick handlebar mustache: lime green. I'll probably always wonder and never find out what that's all about.
Was grateful today for mis-delivered mail. It meant my sweet neighbor came to the door with it and in the process we had a mini-gabfest. Fun!
Yesterday morning's walk took me past a particular yard. An older guy is frequently out tending the garden. He greeted me like an old friend and offered me a plum "or two, or a dozen". I chose a couple that are currently ripening on our counter. How much more pleasant generosity is when it is so freely and happily shared!
Made a quick run to Costco. It was my least favorite part of the day given the plethora of noise and confusion. I did however marvel to myself about the abundance that surrounds us. Piles of boxes of fruit and vegetables. Stacks of cartons of eggs and milk. Freezers full of meat and cheese and butter. All for the taking with no rationing or limits. How very blessed we are.
I just had to stop the car and pull over so I could take a picture of this blossom. It was easily 10" across - my arm almost wasn't long enough to take the picture and get my hand in the shot for comparison. The bush was loaded with lots of flowers the same size. Isn't our world beautiful?
I'm grateful today for people who notice my car in a parking lot and text me just to be friendly. I'm grateful for good dental care and insurance that helps pay for it. I'm grateful for plenty to read and for free books that end up on my Kindle and Nook apps. And for people who are kind about receiving mis-directed texts - and also grateful that I wasn't being rude or foul in that mis-directed text (not that I'm in the habit of doing so). I'm grateful.
It was still 72 out on our way home so the car windows were down. A young man driving parallel to us for quite some way down the road also had his windows down - and his radio cranked and was belting out the song. Quite unselfconsciously. I wished I could have better heard the song so we could have sung along with him. A song-jam traveling down the road, might have been fun. (Though I think The Husband has the better voice.)
We were poking along behind a small pickup that finally pulled over to the side of the road. Of course we had to look see who was driving so indecisively and all either one of us noticed was his old-fashioned thick handlebar mustache: lime green. I'll probably always wonder and never find out what that's all about.
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| Free fruit! |
Yesterday morning's walk took me past a particular yard. An older guy is frequently out tending the garden. He greeted me like an old friend and offered me a plum "or two, or a dozen". I chose a couple that are currently ripening on our counter. How much more pleasant generosity is when it is so freely and happily shared!
Made a quick run to Costco. It was my least favorite part of the day given the plethora of noise and confusion. I did however marvel to myself about the abundance that surrounds us. Piles of boxes of fruit and vegetables. Stacks of cartons of eggs and milk. Freezers full of meat and cheese and butter. All for the taking with no rationing or limits. How very blessed we are.
I just had to stop the car and pull over so I could take a picture of this blossom. It was easily 10" across - my arm almost wasn't long enough to take the picture and get my hand in the shot for comparison. The bush was loaded with lots of flowers the same size. Isn't our world beautiful?
I'm grateful today for people who notice my car in a parking lot and text me just to be friendly. I'm grateful for good dental care and insurance that helps pay for it. I'm grateful for plenty to read and for free books that end up on my Kindle and Nook apps. And for people who are kind about receiving mis-directed texts - and also grateful that I wasn't being rude or foul in that mis-directed text (not that I'm in the habit of doing so). I'm grateful.
Oddities
Noticed several oddities today.
• Heading over to the freeway I noticed some flashing lights that as they drew nearer proved to be on a police car. Which was escorting a house down the street. Would have liked to have gotten a picture. I'm certain the route was carefully chosen for it's three lanes wide status. The house took up the entire three lanes. Not something you see every day for sure.
• Saw a semi trailer being pulled by a tiger painted truck cab. Yep, orange and black tiger stripes.
• Had a chat with a kind lady at the grocery. She didn't mind that I didn't care for the brownie samples she was dispensing - even offered to go get me a brownie sans frosting/filling if I'd like. She was a sweetie.
• Sat down to work on a book that was taking me a while to finish. Ended up startling myself awake with some unladylike noises coming from my nose. Even though I'm not really a "napper" it surely felt good.
Spent a little time out on the driveway looking at the moon playing hide and seek amongst the clouds and watching the near constant lightning strikes across the valley. Reminds me how blessed we are to be surrounded by such beauty - even amid the storms.
• Heading over to the freeway I noticed some flashing lights that as they drew nearer proved to be on a police car. Which was escorting a house down the street. Would have liked to have gotten a picture. I'm certain the route was carefully chosen for it's three lanes wide status. The house took up the entire three lanes. Not something you see every day for sure.
• Saw a semi trailer being pulled by a tiger painted truck cab. Yep, orange and black tiger stripes.
• Had a chat with a kind lady at the grocery. She didn't mind that I didn't care for the brownie samples she was dispensing - even offered to go get me a brownie sans frosting/filling if I'd like. She was a sweetie.
• Sat down to work on a book that was taking me a while to finish. Ended up startling myself awake with some unladylike noises coming from my nose. Even though I'm not really a "napper" it surely felt good.
Spent a little time out on the driveway looking at the moon playing hide and seek amongst the clouds and watching the near constant lightning strikes across the valley. Reminds me how blessed we are to be surrounded by such beauty - even amid the storms.
Tuesday Catch Up
We had a fairly nice weekend - caught a movie that was actually pretty much worth seeing (even for a reluctant watcher of science fiction like myself) which was accompanied by a bucket of popcorn that tasted extra delicious since she was scant with the butter which is how I like it, not how The Husband prefers it.
A quiet Sunday felt complete with church and texts from kids we love. Received a delightful hug and conversation from my sweet 5 year old bespectacled and pigtailed friend. She was happy to inform me that coloring was...well...her talent! (Remembering it still makes me smile.)
Monday found me on the treadmill because of the welcome rain. Being on the treadmill meant I got some serious reading done - YAY! Then I headed out to lunch with a couple friends to celebrate a birthday. I hope she likes the gift. (It's a good thing we have lots of chances to find just-the-right gift, I need lots of practice!)
The Husband ended up at the dentist with a broken tooth. Crown prep will begin in earnest.
This morning's walk provided a sighting of a youngish deer - still had the white spots on its back but I saw no sign of Mama. That's my favorite way to start a day. Since my morning walk this has been an ordinary day, but the kind of day I love: puttering around here, starting and completing the laundry, snatching a few minutes to read a book, getting in some stitching. Simple, low key, low stress, calm. Rejuvenating.
Was enlightened as to the definition of an extrovert / introvert, a definition I hadn't heard before but have since found on the internet so it must be completely true. At any rate, it makes complete sense to me. An extrovert is one who is energized by being around other people. An introvert derives his/her energy from being alone. (Frankly I think most of us have a bit of each in us.) I can totally see this in people I know.
Both The Husband and I are fond of the Rose Of Sharon. They are one of the bright spots in an August garden. Walking past this one this morning, I came nearly nose to nose with a hummingbird looking for breakfast. Freezing in place I watched for as long as it took for her decide to zip off. Lovely way to greet the day.
And today I'm grateful for good performance reviews, for dental insurance, for a house built on fairly solid ground (they had a landslide that crushed a house in North Salt Lake today) for welcome rain in the midst of summer heat and for an awareness of the good that's around me, thanks to Heavenly Father.
A quiet Sunday felt complete with church and texts from kids we love. Received a delightful hug and conversation from my sweet 5 year old bespectacled and pigtailed friend. She was happy to inform me that coloring was...well...her talent! (Remembering it still makes me smile.)
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| Rose Of Sharon |
The Husband ended up at the dentist with a broken tooth. Crown prep will begin in earnest.
This morning's walk provided a sighting of a youngish deer - still had the white spots on its back but I saw no sign of Mama. That's my favorite way to start a day. Since my morning walk this has been an ordinary day, but the kind of day I love: puttering around here, starting and completing the laundry, snatching a few minutes to read a book, getting in some stitching. Simple, low key, low stress, calm. Rejuvenating.
Was enlightened as to the definition of an extrovert / introvert, a definition I hadn't heard before but have since found on the internet so it must be completely true. At any rate, it makes complete sense to me. An extrovert is one who is energized by being around other people. An introvert derives his/her energy from being alone. (Frankly I think most of us have a bit of each in us.) I can totally see this in people I know.
Both The Husband and I are fond of the Rose Of Sharon. They are one of the bright spots in an August garden. Walking past this one this morning, I came nearly nose to nose with a hummingbird looking for breakfast. Freezing in place I watched for as long as it took for her decide to zip off. Lovely way to greet the day.
And today I'm grateful for good performance reviews, for dental insurance, for a house built on fairly solid ground (they had a landslide that crushed a house in North Salt Lake today) for welcome rain in the midst of summer heat and for an awareness of the good that's around me, thanks to Heavenly Father.
Book
I just finished this little book - noticed in a store the other day and requested it from the library. While I don't agree with everything in it (and when do we ever?), and it is somewhat self-congratulatory, the basic premise is solid. Everyone, working or not, can benefit from being nice.I really like next to last summary paragraph: "If you take anything away from this book, we hope it's the realization that there is untapped potential in even the smallest good deed, and that it can have a multiplier effect strong enough to change the world. Yes, a random act of kindness can help you become wealthier, healthier and wiser. But, most of all, it will make you happier."
This was just the shot of "good" I needed this week.
Along with this tiny occurrence: I was traversing the aisles of the grocery yesterday. Caught a glimpse of the brown shorts/shirt of a UPS guy hurrying past the end of my aisle. Next thing I know, he's come back to the end of the aisle just to say hi to me (someone he remembers from his deliveries). How thoughtful and how kind. Made me want to order something.
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| Supplies |
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| All done. |
The end result was this cute little mason jar candle holder complete with battery powered candle. Probably fairly useless in the larger scheme of things, but I was pleased. I think they both liked it and hopefully will smile once in awhile when they catch sight of it, knowing that I'm grateful they're my friends.
Today I'm grateful for beautiful sunrises, for enough stuff for dinner and for a day when I can absolutely stay at home the entire day if I choose. (And yep, I think I'm choosing that.)
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