SimplyBySandi

Busy Busy Bee...

2012-02-03T21:20:00.005-05:00

There are lots of new things (which stem from old things) going on in my life right now. That unlike the reflection in the coffee cup above is not necessarily visible on the surface (I was sitting by a window in a restaurant on 15th Street in downtown DC when I took this photo...couldn't resist the reflection of the building across the street in my coffee I guess). All good, but it is keeping me busy as a bee.

I have just been hired to teach at my local quilt shop, Material Girls Quilt Boutique. I am so excited to get back into quilting. I have been a quilter for 25 years and have taught off and on over the years. The last class I taught was about 10 or so years ago. Just before 9-11 happened. I went into in home sales for a while selling Stampin' Up products. Did that for almost 4 years. After finding out I was expecting my little guy who is now 7, I gave up all the extra activities that took me out of the house. I focused on being the healthiest pregnant mom I could be (my older son was 14 at the time). Then after giving birth I could not justify being out of the house with a brand new babe who needed to bond with his momma...and me with him. I made the right choice...never one doubt about it. Now he has swim practice twice a week, soccer practice once a week, and ice skating lessons once a week. All in the evenings. My hubby takes him to swimming, because for some reason they don't like little boys in the womens locker room, or moms in the mens locker room...tee hee hee. On soccer night it is all guys so I stay home to get dinner going once I am home from work. Ice skating however, is my favorite physical activity to do with him so we all go to the rink to ice skate before his lessons.

Now that I will be teaching again I plan to do it on one of the evenings he is at the pool for swim practice. It won't take away from our time together and I get to do some girl stuff I enjoy (not that there are only females interested in quilting). I have a laundry list of new ideas for classes I want to teach...have pretty much been given free reign over what classes I teach, what day and time they are to be held, and how often. Fun is on the horizon people and I am ready to meet the challenge with much enthusiasm.

I have been working on knitting my Tea Leaves Cardigan I started last February, 2011. It is coming along nicely, and I cannot wait to wear it. Malabrigo worsteds are my most favorite yarns...so soft and snuggly, and beautiful saturated colors. This sweater is going to be my go to sweater for everyday wear. I can just feel it in my bones everytime I pick it up and work on it. I chose a beautiful shade of dark green for this particular pattern. Green goes with everything! Think about it...flowers of all colors have green leaves, grass is green, trees have green leaves...green goes with every color of everything in the whole world! As do sunshine yellow, sky blue, and earthy browns. Black and white are not the only paints in the paint box to go with all other colors.

Have also been working on writing and illustrating a childrens book...this has been my dream since I was a child. We will see how far it goes, but I am giving it my all. It is quite a process and I love every minute of it. I will at least have some colorful artwork to frame and hang on my walls if it doesn't work out. :)

Hope everyone has a wonderful and creative weekend...I know I will. Tomorrow we are planning our vegie garden for the spring and summer so we can get our seeds ordered. So, I will be busy with lots of creative things (with a little ice skating thrown in for good measure!).

Just Words for Now...

2011-12-30T22:12:00.003-05:00

I have no idea why my computer which is only a year old has decided to stop accepting new photos I try to upload. It is very annoying, especially since I would very much like to put up some Christmas photos, among others. So it's going to be just words for right now...

Today was a rather nice day...my little guy and I had an appointment at his dentist office first thing this morning, then we proceeded to do exactly and only what we really wanted to do for the rest of the day.

We left the dentist office and went to the local bagel shop for bagels, chocolate milk, and coffee, followed by a little shared newspaper reading...the style and comic sections of the Washington Post. Next we made our way across the parking lot to our favorite place...a bookstore (the exception being an ice skating rink). We perused shelf after shelf full of glorious books for about 3 hours! I kid not...we are true book addicts...came away with the complete Laura Ingalls series. Once we left there we went across the highway to both of the craft & hobby stores in our area...we had three 50% off coupons to make use of, and that we did.

The little boy who sat across from his momma reading the newspaper today, has grown all too quickly from a newborn babe to a seven year old. I want to savor every single moment I can with him...I know first hand that these days will be only a sweet memory years from now. His big brother, now 22, grew up way too fast. When I look back on that time with him I am so grateful that I had the forethought to really pay attention and be in the moment. I have so many sweet memories because I did pay attention and lived every single moment to the fullest with him. I feel so blessed to be able to do this all over again.

It will be a new year in about 25 hours from now. I plan on starting the new year the same way I am ending the old one...by living loving learning in the moment.

If you don't do anything except be present in the new year on a daily basis, then you will have done everything! God Bless You and Happy New Year!

It's Getting Closer...

2011-12-04T21:25:00.007-05:00

He had the most lengthy conversation I have ever seen anyone have with Santa...he asked him how he became Santa. He was listening so intently. I couldn't hear what Santa was saying to him, but I got the complete story several times in the days following his visit. I do think that is the longest he has ever sat that still while awake...well, with the exception of the first time we took him to see The Nutcracker at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC when he was 4. I had to keep checking to see if he was awake, because from the time it started he was so mesmerized by it that he didn't move a muscle or make a peep.

We are just about ready for the big day...have lots of fun things left to do...I have the neccessary things done, but we enjoy the doing right up to the day. Even after the day we are so still in the spirit of Christmas that we continue listening to Christmas music, watching Christmas movies, and making Christmas crafts.

Catching Up...Bits and Bobs of Summer and Autumn Fun...

2011-11-06T11:27:00.054-05:00

Watercolor palette has beeen calling to me...need to paint soon...

From this...

to this...

and this...Not bad for our first vegetable garden...

Just hanging out on the boardwalk at the beach...

Getting ready for all the holiday craft fairs...

Who is chasing who? Awesome detail on the firefly don't you think...

Relaxing and blowing bubbles...a favorite pastime...

Shrimp fritters...

Mr. Teddi Tinkerman...his official name...

Afternoon kitchen tea with my little guy...

Out for his first spin without training wheels...

I see you looking at me...

Dinner! Yum! well, after it is cooked it will be...

Blanket town...

Gathering materials...

Stitching them together...

For the cutest scarecrow ever!

Trick or treating with friends...

Spooky stew afterwards...kale, potatoes, kidney beans...

Last okra from the vegie garden...

Preparing fried okra...

Last bell peppers...

Knitting socks...

New venture...

Broccoli, chicken, cheddar ring...

Doughnut french toast with warm strawberry jam...

Birthday pumpkin carving cookout/party...

Reading everything in sight...so much fun learning to read...love it!

First time for fondue...fun fun fun...

Random Posts...

2011-09-28T18:57:00.014-04:00

For a little while there will be random posts, here and there. There are quite a few photos and happenings from this summer.

We are now into the school year full swing, as I am sure everyone is...homework, rushing out the door in the morning, earlier bedtimes, and on, and on...missing summer already. I have however, been able to make it to a few art festivals. I am feeling really inspired to start painting again, among many other things. I love art and seeing what others are doing just gets my creative juices flowing like crazy!

Below are a few things I found at the art festivals I have attended recently...I love baskets and I love pottery! (Have been taking basket weavings classes since February this year...my next endeavor shall be to learn pottery.)

The larger basket holds four of my current knitting projects with room to spare...I love it! The man I bought the baskets from is from Ghana. He has been in the US for about 30 years...was a professional soccer player when he first came here, and when he retired from that he started making these traditional elephant grass baskets to sell. They are the same as the ones you can find online at fair trade sites. It is amazing to watch him weave them...he has recently accepted a position with the professional soccer organization back in Africa, and will be leaving the states to return home. It was truly a priviledge to meet him...he is a very kind and joyful person. Good luck and safe travels to you Mohammad Attiah!

Attended an awesome heirloom harvest festival at Thomas Jefferson's home (Monticello, in Charlottesville, Virginia) weekend before last. I am already planning my vegie garden for next spring, summer, and fall. Also, thinking about planting some berry plants...strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries. I am definitely addicted to growing my own food now. Very satisfying.

Updates to Come...

2011-09-16T10:50:00.008-04:00

Things have been very busy all summer...I have not been posting as much as I would like to. Since school has started back things are a little more scheduled now. Getting back into routines has been challenging...we are total summer people. We enjoy the relaxed schedules and days of doing nothing but playing, swimming, reading, painting, traveling, etc...

There are a few updates to come. I have many "irons in the fire" (code for personal and family projects). I am at the point in my life when doing it all is not working any longer. It is a struggle deciding what to let go of, and what to keep. There are many personal projects I want to complete, but not at the expense of time spent with my little. He is growing so fast just as our older son did...sometimes I believe it is in fact much faster. So, I am looking more toward projects we can enjoy together. He is such a funny little guy. So much like me that it is scary. The 22 year old is just like me in many of my good ways, and the little one (7 yrs) is just like me in some of my not so good ways. So we really need to work on that.

Since it is Friday, I am going to post a photo of a moment I want to remember...see www.soulemama.typepad.com. Then sometime in the next couple of weeks there will be updates with photos to cover the last couple of months.

My beautiful Drew, on his 21st birthday last year...he loves music...plays all the time. His soul is music to my heart always.

Loving This Right now...

2011-09-16T10:45:00.003-04:00

Just starting to get into yoga...it is definitely not easy but I am willing to work at it daily. Found this 20 minute routine on YouTube.com...Loving it!!!

Update on the Vegie Garden...

2011-06-16T19:54:00.013-04:00

The cukes and melons are growing...

The sunflowers are thriving...

The tomatoes are full of blooms...

There are 18 okra plants...

The corn is 3 feet tall...

The squash plants are huge...

The pole beans are off and running...pun intended...

The radish patch and the first radish picked...

It was the first of many...

All is alive and well. It is so exciting to have planted all of this and for it to be growing and producing...There are already plans for a bigger garden next year, and soil work in the off season...cannot wait!

Planting and Welcoming New Lives...

2011-06-05T18:31:00.016-04:00

We love the spring and summer months so much...there is so much to do outside that the inside kind of gets neglected. I suppose that is the way it should be though. The need to get outdoors is a way bigger pull than to stay in and do laundry, or clean a nasty toilet...let's see toilet bowl-outside-toilet bowl-outside...duh! Outside wins hands down!

The little blue spruce had been named Elsie, but as of this morning its name has been changed to Alfrid. Yes, the little person in our household likes to name all the plants and trees and flowers..."They are living things, Momma!" (and I quote). We have Fern, Charlotte, and Emma. They are lambs ear stalks with flowers on them. There is also Abigail, Muriel, and Ingrid. They are Japanese Irises. Oh, and Gladys. She is the lone gladiola in the flower garden. So, it is Alfrid, for the baby blue spruce...with an emphasis on the "id". I love it!!!

Digging the hole...

Patting down the soil with Daddy...

Watering it in...

Done!

We also have a new member of the family...Snowflake better known as Prometheus (at least until I find out what that means exactly)...it is a white male betta fish. I never knew they came in white...but they do...he did! We have had a blue one named Finnegan and a red one named Kierkgard (not sure I spelled that right, my college age son named him...he is a philosophy major)LOL.

A Long Long Day...

2011-06-04T23:40:00.013-04:00

Photos now...words tomorrow...long long day, and I have no energy left for writting

Always Be Kind...If You Can't Don't Say Anything...

2011-06-03T19:17:00.015-04:00

People amaze me...the ones who get their feelings hurt, because they are not actually listening to what you may be saying. It's all about them all the time. You know the ones you regret having asked the question, "How are you today?" Because the answer is never positive like "good", or "fine", or "fantastic", or whatever positive feeling most people experience at least once in a while. Instead the answer is always something negative. The ones who say whatever they want, to whoever they want, regardless of whether it may hurt another persons feelings, or offend them in some way. Be it small or large it doesn't matter...it is still very rude.
You feel bad after being around them...you leave with this feeling of wanting to call the most positive people you know so you can be recharged with optimism. The longer I live the more I realize how important it is to be a person whom people leave feeling good...like they are better for having been around you...like they matter...they feel encouraged.

So, please always be the kind of person who inspires others to be kind but if you can't then don't say anything...silence is better than negativity...

A few things I feel good about...

Flowers for no reason except "just because" from my little guy...

Yummy and crunchy cinnamon toast hot from the oven...should really be called candy toast...

The busiest and most loving little fella I know...

The most intuitive and philosophical person I know...

And the best big brother ever...

The best husband and daddy around...bar none!

Now after all the gushing I just did all over my computer screen...I am off to prepare for a yard sale and lemonade stand here tomorrow...

Have a spectacular weekend...try to surround yourself with people who make you feel good about them (and yourself too of course)...

Almost Missed Posting Today...

2011-06-02T23:44:00.003-04:00

15 minutes left to get a post in for today...just relaxing in the living room with a book and realized I had not written a post for today. It will be short and sweet as I am on my way to go to sleep.

A good day it was. Stayed within my calorie range for sure, but I need to work on my sugar and carb count...I am doing "The Fat Belly Cure". Well, a version of it and "Primal Eating", and a little bit my own common sense, all together. Made a great dinner of roasted sweet potato with olive oil, kosher salt, pepper, rosemary, and roasted sesame seeds...marinated onion in red wine vinegar, and smoked chicken. Very delicious...my own recipes.

I am off to sleep now...much like my little guy on the way home from "Stomp" back in March...

A Post a Day...

2011-06-01T19:02:00.003-04:00

Okay, so I am not the most prolific blog posting person on the internet. I am going to conduct a little challenge with myself...I challenge me to post every day for the entire month of June 2011, with at least one photo. The photo may or may not have anything whatsoever (is that one word?) to do with the post...We will see what comes out...tee hee.

This week has been very busy so far. Nothing noteworthy, unless you count fertilizing the vegie garden (will have up to date pics after tomorrow), getting my statements in the mail in record time today at work, or starting a diet...well, not a diet but a life change in my eating habits with the goal being to get in shape and lose about 35 pounds. Whew! Run on sentence!

My boys are into summer full swing. My college age son and all his friends are home from school for the summer. Working, swimming, and playing music seem to be the main events on the agenda for them right now. We had a concert downstairs on Sunday evening. After feeding them tacos for dinner they proceeded to entertain us with awesome music...they are quite good together as a group. A little classic rock (AC DC "Back in Black") was played as well as a rather eclectic arrangement of song choices from different genres of music.

My little one is still in school until the 20th, but has started swim team practice as of yesterday. He is planning his birthday events, which is 4 weeks from today, and is about to drive us nuts. I think he has finally settled on Hershey Park for the day with family friends. I am sure whatever we end up doing will be fun for all involved.

I do have a little (read huge) before and after house/photo project going on right now...more on that later.

Off to do some housework now, and start a new knitting project I plan on having finished for vacation in 6 weeks.

School is almost out...Hurray!!!

More Living Life in Photos...

2011-05-28T23:57:00.025-04:00

This is just a little bit of the living we have been doing...being present in the moment and savoring every little or big thing. Time goes by way too fast to ignore all the possibilities there are in just a single moment...blink and it is gone forever.

Observing in awe the world around us and beyond...

Enjoying the many wonders in nature...

Handmade valentine's and homemade chocolate candy...

His first indoor soccer season has come and gone...

New photo collages for the wall...

Blocks being built into whole towns...

Math wizard award being collected by the little guy...

Lots of books being read and enjoyed...

Strawberries to be picked...

Lots of baking going on...

Lots of cooking going on too...

Learned basket weaving...first basket...

Still not finished...

Second basket...and Easter basket for the little guy...

Third basket for a dear friend...

New library...office...art studio for little guy, hubby and me...

New bedroom newly painted and carpeted for college son...

Have been doing alot of knitting...

New hat for the little guy...(boyfriend hat from ravelry)

New hat for hubby...boyfriend hat from Ravelry...

Knitted a third hat on my own for college son, but it was too, too big...more like a very slouchy hat. He was not into it...so new hat for me...

Hope living in the moment is part of your day...we are here but for a short time we might as well make the most of it. Enjoy your day...

My favorite quotes:
"Butterflies count not months but moments and have time enough..."
"Be happy for this moment...for this moment it is your life"

Slowing Down to Actually Live Life...

2011-05-18T19:02:00.016-04:00

Our first ever vegetable garden...planted on Mother's Day...

I have often wondered how, when life is so busy, do we slow down to actually live life...to live it the way we really want to. Everyday there seems to be something pulling at us. Whether it's our jobs, chores around the house, cars in need of repairs, sick children, grocery shopping to be done, or any one of a million things, it doesn't really matter what it is that is demanding our attention. All the truly important things tend to take a back seat to whatever it is.

It has to be a conscious decision to make sure we are present in our lives...this is why I haven't been as present here in blogland as I would of liked for the last year or so. I have been trying to be present in my life with my family and friends.

These photos are the living I (we) have been up to...in no particular order...

3 Yummy Treats from 1 Yummy Fruit...

2011-03-06T16:11:00.010-05:00

Oh, what a gorgeous and yummy fruit the Meyer Lemon is. Had a few on hand to try them. I squeezed the juice out for a pitcher of homemade lemonade, ate the flesh just because, and cooked the skin into candied citrus peel.

I remember being in elementary school, about 2nd or 3rd grade, and a girl in my class had this in her lunch pretty much every week. She gave me a piece to try and I have never forgotten that yummy goodness...sweet but tangy...I was hooked.

Several years later when I was a 7th grader, I tried my hand at this oh so simple candy. Much to my disappointment it was a complete failure! I never tried it again. All these years later I decided to give it another try. I have come to realize that it was possibly due to my impatient nature that the candy had not turned out as it should (read I didn't let it cook long enough).

So as I write here on my blog, I wait patiently for the boiling sugar and water to cook the lemon peel to a tender translucent gem. I still cannot wait to taste it, but I am a much more patient and experienced cook now.

Okay, you are going to get a chuckle out of this...the candy still has not turned out right! I think I was a little too patient. The candy cooked past the syrup stage and into the hard tack stage...anyone care to try my lemon peel brittle?

This is live blogging at it's best folks...no time delays used here...

It actually tastes really good...maybe I have come up with a new taste sensation...so I can keep the title of my post. Hurray!

New Post With Pics Coming Soon...

2011-01-09T17:28:00.002-05:00

It has been quite a while since my last blog post...been busy living life. I do miss it however, and want to be able to do it right. Have been working on some new projects and they've been taking up what little free time I do have. The little guy takes the majority of my free time, but that is definitely as it should be...we are working on something together. Be back soon! Hope the new year is going well for everyone out there in blogland...Sandi

Retiring Iris...

2010-03-26T09:33:00.004-04:00

I have been having major issues with Iris (yes, I named my computer)...it's probably time to start thinking about a new one. She has always been a good laptop, but I think I have just worn her out over the last almost 5 years. My husband tells me that 5 years is usually about what you get out of a laptop. He does the purchasing of computers and such for his job with the Treasury Department, so I am sure he knows what he's talking about.

It may be a little while until regular posts start happening here...at least while I look for Iris the 2nd...Luckily I have everything backed up to my portable hard drive, so no worries there. So, I guess it's retirement time for Iris...

Wow! Glad Knitting Is Not This Hard...

2010-02-28T10:11:00.005-05:00

I happened upon this video this morning...I am so glad knitting is not this hard. Doesn't seem to be too relaxing does it?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VVRfVEONxJQ

I still haven't learned to link to things...will learn...but for now please copy and paste to your address bar. Sorry for the inconvenience.

More to come later today with photos. I am working on my yarn stash and my sewing room, trying to get them both reorganized.

A Cup Of Memories...(#1)

2010-02-18T23:36:00.011-05:00

This was a gift to me last year on Valentine's Day from my youngest. It is one of my favorite coffee cups, not because of what it looks like but because of the sweet memory it holds. I look at this cup and remember the huge grin on my little guys face...he was so proud that he had a beautiful new cup for his momma to drink her daily hot chocolate from. The single heart with the echoing outlines...mimicks the loving vibrations from the heart of a 4 year old child excited to present a gift to someone he loves. Every time I look at it I see his sweet smile and remember I am loved unconditionally by this innocent little human being who thinks I can do no wrong.

I usually end up with a coffee cup when looking for a souvenier to remember a place, an event, or a trip by. It is something that is practical and useful, and usually very inexpensive. I have many of them...each one holds a different but fond memory. Some are gifts from friends and family, and some I have picked up at various times over the last 27 years.

With many coffee cups comes many memories. So every once in a while there will be a coffee cup photo here, and the memory that goes along with it...if anyone would like to send a photo and story of their favorite coffee cup, I would love to see and read them. Just e-mail them to me (my contact info is in the right panel toward the bottom). If I receive 10 or more stories I will have a random drawing, and the winner will receive a gift card to a "well known" coffee shop (don't know if I can mention brand names here). All photos and stories will be posted here on my blog as well.

The coffee cup plays a big part in our daily lives...it holds the beverage of our choice to get the day started, to end the day, or to simply get us through our day. All kinds of coffee, tea, hot cocoa, etc...are consumed every day by many people in their favorite coffee cup. Warm and cozy memories attached to such an ordinary object turn it into a priceless treasure...a cup of memories.

The Perfect Evening Out...

2010-02-12T00:01:00.005-05:00

The perfect evening out...is rich with intriguing conversation, good food, laughter, and someone you never ever have to explain yourself, your thoughts, or your feelings to. A person who not only knows you, but can also relate to what makes you the person you are. A person you don't feel like you have to tip toe around for fear of offending them. Someone you can truly be yourself with.

I just came home from the evening out I describe above, refreshed and relaxed, and ready to start a brand new day tomorrow, with renewed enthusiasm. A true friend who supports and encourages, and whom you do the same for, can do that for your spirit.

What a blessing my friend is. Whether it's a 10 minute conversation on the phone, or a dinner out like the one this evening. I always leave feeling calm, understood, inspired, and invigorated. Ready to take on whatever comes my way.

So, thank you dear friend...can't wait until next time. The conversation is never the same, and there's definitely never a dull moment!

Snowy Day...Happy Creative Play...

2010-02-10T21:15:00.041-05:00

Another snow swept through our area today. The second one in less than a week, kept us indoors again. We managed to keep busy...very busy!

An early morning photography session of the near blizzard conditions...I understand records are being broken for the area we live in. There hasn't been this much snow in one winter season since the 1800's...not sure of the exact year.

More Valentine's being made...these are for his kindergarten class. Butterflies and birds for the girl's and robots for the boy's.

A yummy crusty bread fresh from the oven...my favorite with butter and honey.

A new crocheted hat was requested...stitched up in about 2 hours. I hadn't crocheted anything for about 23 years! I learned how to knit that long ago and gave up my hook...not intentionally. I learned to crochet at 10 years old and crocheted everything imaginable. I had forgotten how easy, fun, and quick crocheting is.

And last but not least...a beautiful new painting, done together after watching a few painting dvd's. We love the colors. I see many more collaborations in the near future! Happy Day...

Loving Nesting In The Winter...

2010-02-08T16:07:00.010-05:00

The truth is I used to dread the onset of the winter months. The last few years however, I have come to love them almost more than summer time, which has always been my absolute favorite season. I honestly don't know what brought on such a change, but I'm guessing it has something to do with having a little one again. He becomes so excited about the snow and the winter holiday's that it is contagious! Not to mention the fact that we have more time for our crafting and artistic endeavors. Oh, and the baking and cooking...always more fun in cooler weather...

The recipe below is one my mom made when I was a little girl, and I have been making it for the last 27 years. It is a very "Simple Potato and Onion Soup", which is absolutely delicious. Hope you will try it out and let me know what you think...

Peel and cut into 3/4" cubes 4 large russet potatoes, as well as peel and dice 2 medium onions.

Place the potato and onion along with a stick of butter or margerine, and 8 cups of water in a 5 to 7 qt. soup pot with lid. Bring to a boil over medium heat and cook until potatoes are done through and starting to get soft enough that they are getting a bit smaller than they started out.

At this point add 4 cups of whole milk to the soup pot, then in a small bowl measure out 1/4 cup of white corn meal (not yellow it is too sweet), to the cornmeal add about a cup of the hot broth from the soup pot, and whisk until all lumps are gone. Add this corn meal paste to the soup and stir thoroughly to incorporate. Next add the second stick of butter or margerine, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Turn heat down to a simmer and let cook for about 5 minutes with lid on, but do not bring to a boil again. Remove from heat.

The finished soup will have smaller chunks of potato, the onion will have cooked down a bit too, and the soup will be thicker, but not thick just kind of creamy. There are approximately 10 servings. Enjoy!

I have loved this soup my entire life and it is a very budget friendly recipe.

Lazy Winter Days Are The Best...

2010-02-07T21:12:00.021-05:00

Worked on this photo project all day long...enjoyed it way too much...it's all I did all day! Lazy snowy winter days are the best...and adding captions to my photos was quite addicting!

The day started off venturing outside for the first time since the big snow fall started on Friday. Someone couldn't even wait five minutes to get dressed in proper snow gear...at one point he was out there in his pj's with flip flops on his feet! You got to love it...

Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow...

2010-02-06T20:52:00.012-05:00

Today, as the snow quietly and gently covered everything outside, we were at play inside. The electricity went out for about 5 hours, so we were forced to find something to do that did not involve television, wii, or the internet. Oh, how sweet it was. I think we will have regular weekly technology power outages from now on. What a blessing to disconnect from all the electronic devices we so often let occupy our spare time. Here are just a few pics of how the day evolved...

Valentine's were being crafted by little hands...out of newspaper comics, self adhesive cardstock, and stickers...

A randomly striped scarf for my oldest is on the needles. It was intended for a Christmas gift, but was no where near done in time, and of course he needs it right now...

When the weather ouside is frightful...Stay inside and play by the fire...it's so delightful...Let it snow...let it snow...let it snow. I love love love it!

Hope you are enjoying a wonderful winter day, too.

Better to Have a Hard Time than No Time...

2010-01-31T23:03:00.020-05:00

Okay. It's been a week since we moved my oldest off to college, and I am still alive. We do miss him terribly, but have talked to him daily. We didn't call today. I thought I would give him a chance to call us. Of course, there was no call because I am sure he is thoroughly enjoying being on his own. That's okay because I know we did a good job of raising him to be an independent, strong and self reliant person. So Yay!

Our little guy however has had a little bit of a hard time adjusting to his big brother being gone. The university is 2 1/2 hours away. When we were driving back home last Saturday, he cried and sobbed, and sobbed and cried, the whole drive back! It was heart breaking...I didn't think he would take it so hard. It was an adventure until it came time to leave and he realized his brother wasn't coming back home with us. Honestly, we did not keep it a secret that we were moving him away to college. I know he is 5 but I thought he knew what we were talking about.

Him and I had a very busy day at home today. Homemade scones turned into a full fledged tea with mix matched china, the scones with butter and strawberry jam, a nice pot of tea, and strawberries with whipped cream. All very delicious! After our impromtu tea he headed out with his dad to play in the beautiful snow we got yesterday. All in all it was a very relaxing and very happy day.

My decision to "love the moment" has been serving me well. I am less stressed over things that I normally would fret about. I even had a laugh at work the other day over a moment that normally would have been very infuriating to me. I just keep my new mantra of "love the moment" in the forefront of my mind. I heard my dad say something to a customer on the phone and it was like a lightbulb moment to me...he was listening to a customer complain about how hard he had had it lately and his response to him was, "better to have a hard time than no time". I wrote it down so I wouldn't forget it! This is so true...

Love the Moment...Whatever it May Be...

2010-01-23T03:44:00.006-05:00

I am, at this moment in time, sitting in a hotel room after spending the day moving my oldest away to college for the first time. He has been at the local community college for the last 5 semesters, and transferred for the Spring 2010 semester to an in state University, 2 1/2 hours away from home.

I am so excited for him, but at the same time sad to see him gone from our home. My little one, who is only in kindergarten, is gonna miss his big brother terribly. We cleaned, and set up, and decorated, and washed things for 6 hours! It all came together very nicely however. The color theme for his room and bathroom is black, charcoal gray, and eggplant, with touches of stainless. Very urban chic, it is. He has always had a flair for the more dramatic color scheme.

After finishing up we enjoyed a simple dinner of pizza and soda pop from our favorite Eastern Shore pizzeria. Pepperoni, sweet peppers, and extra cheese! Yummy...

Tomorrow morning we will finish up by making a trip to the local Target, Home Depot, and grocery store for the neccessary amenities, food, and a fan for his bedroom. Then off we will go on the return journey home.

He has gone from kindergarten to a junior in college in the blink of an eye...much faster than I would have ever imagined. Life does fly by at a very unpredictable pace!

I keep reminding myself to "love the moment" whatever it may be...you don't know what the next moment may bring.

Perspective About Life Becomes So Clear...

2009-12-15T23:51:00.006-05:00

Wow...it has been two whole months since my last post. So much has gone on in that time. Drew, our oldest has been accepted to a four year college of his choice, we have been to Disney World, celebrated Thanksgiving, started getting ready for Christmas, and sadly Drew just lost his best friend on Sunday. The funeral will be this Friday, and Drew will be writing and delivering an eulogy at his funeral.

I cannot believe this has happened again. Josh, was the most beautiful young person in every way. He lit up the room whenever he was around. He was happy go lucky, always smiling, kind, very personable, polite, and a funny person. He had a sincere and honest spirit about him, was very good with little ones, and had a very distinctive skip to his walk. In a good way of course. Whenever I would ask Drew as he was going out the door, "Where are you off to?", more time's than not it has been "I'm going to Josh's". He was just one of those people to whom everyone was drawn to. You know the person you really enjoy being around, but you can't explain it. It just is. He will be dearly missed by many people, but at the top of that list is my son. My heart breaks for him, knowing that there is nothing I can do to ease the pain of such a devastating loss.

As I watch him mourn his best friend it is very humbling to realize what a sensitive and empathetic young man he has become. The little boy I have been raising for the last two decades of my life is no longer. In his place is a confident, calm, and compassionate grown up. Who until very recently I was worried about being able to handle the sometimes cold, harsh realities of life. How relieved I am to realize there is no longer a need to worry. I am confident he is going to be just fine, and I can now become the mom to him that is also his friend and confidant. We have always, I am proud and honored to say, been very close and have always had an open and honest relationship. Being able to talk with your child about anything in life that could possibly come up, is the best possible goal a parent could hope to attain.

It is in times of sorrow, such as these, that your perspective about life becomes so clear...sleep well dear Josh...You will be missed by many.

I Finally Have Photos...

2009-10-11T00:18:00.004-04:00

After much trial and error I have figured out how to upload photos from my camera memory card...it helped to load the camera software onto my computer (I've only had the camera since last September 2008)! I do not claim to be a technology wiz so...

This is a short post tonight. It is late and I am off to bed. I will get this blog up to par soon.

Have a very restful and pleasant night.

Woo Hoo!!! I finally have photos!!!

Taking It in a Different Direction...

2009-10-09T21:00:00.005-04:00

I have been doing a lot of thinking and self reflection the last few months, and decided some things in my life were in need of change. I feel like I have been bombarded with negativity. Some put on me by others, and some I put on myself. I made the decision to cut ties with certain negative people who are toxic to everyone around them. The kind of negativity that when you are around them you literally start to feel bad. People you are not able to be yourself around, because they take everything you say and twist it into something negative. Life is too short to waste time trying to measure up to some impossible standard someone else has set for everyone but themselves.

I would like to have more joy and laughter in my life. Instead of dwelling on how I wish things were, I am going to focus on the good things right in front of me. The moments of everyday life that are often overlooked. I am going to look for the joy and laughter, the sunlight and love, the kindness and warmth. No more dreading the mundane jobs of housekeeping. I am going to find the joy in even the smallest of things. How things feel, smell, sound, taste, and look. Whatever makes me smile is what will get my attention.

Seeing and hearing the negative in the news everyday is bad enough. I do have a choice of how much I let into my everyday life, and I choose less... much, much less!

I am in denial you say? No, I am finally learning at 47 years of age that I don't have to put up with certain things. Negativity for no reason, is one of the things I am not willing to put up with any longer. I don't like mean people and I don't have to put up with anyone being mean to me or others I care about. I am not a mean person and would feel horrible if I ever hurt another person's feelings. I have seen so much of this behavior lately and it is very discouraging. All people deserve to be treated with respect and love.

My favorite quote is, "Be happy in this moment for this moment is your life". I am going to take this to heart and remind myself of it everyday. As a result I am going to rethink this blog and will be taking it and my attitude in a different direction...a much more upbeat and positive direction.

In The Blink of An Eye

2009-08-24T21:10:00.003-04:00

My Little guy just started kindergarten today...and I was a mess after I dropped him off at school this morning! Being the independent boy that he is, he practically ran from the van to get into school. He did however, turn around to smile and wave three times before heading inside. I am so happy that he is so secure in the fact that we would be back for him in the afternoon, after school was over for the day. I would rather him be that way instead of not wanting to go, and crying.

It was hard for me because the last few days I have not slept well. Due to thinking about how fast the time has gone and how much faster it will go now that he is in school full time. It has taken no time at all for him to reach 5 years old! You give birth to this beautiful baby one day and in the blink of an eye that baby is off to school...

I picked him up and he was one exhausted kid. He laid down on the couch for about an hour and a half once we got home. Not too long after that he was outside with his dad and their golf clubs. Oh, to have that much energy! What I could accomplish in an afternoon...

Until next time...don't blink to fast you may miss something!

Here We Go...

2009-06-04T22:31:00.008-04:00

Here I am. I have been decluttering my house for the last several days. One small area at a time. As they say, "Baby steps". We have 27 years worth of stuff, and I am so tired of it that finally I am determined to not let anything get in the way of decluttering and clearing all the unused stuff out!

I will admit that most of the clutter is mine. I am a book-a-holic, so we have a not so small library in our basement. I have all kinds and colors of fabrics and threads as well as the quilting books and patterns to go with it all. I have all the usual fine art supplies for watercolor, oil, and acrylic painting (books included). I started out cross stitching years ago. My yarn stash, knitting books, and knitting needles could rival a small yarn shop's inventory. I used to sell rubber stamps for a well known stamping company, for which I had to keep a well stocked supply to demonstrate at parties (this turned into scrapbooking). Then there are all the other odds and ends used in creating arts and crafts, which I have aquired through the years. Did I mention my collection of cookbooks?

I have always been a person who likes to create things. Ever since I was a little girl sitting at my mom and grandmother's feet, playing with buttons, scraps of fabric, and thread, while they sewed clothing for themselves and me. I was encouraged to use my hands to make something from nothing. I caught on quickly and never let go.

As much joy as I have gotten over the years out of making things, all the "stuff" has become a touchy subject in my family. I have also finally become tired of looking at all the piles of clutter. I am on a mission in such a way that I have never been before. I am putting my family's well being, and my own, first for a change. Don't get me wrong, when it comes to important issues I have always done that, but I also have always put other "fun" things first. No more...it has started to affect my mood, my husbands mood, and because of our moods it trickles down to the boys.

It will take a while, you know, it took the last at least 18 years to get this way so it won't be cleared out over night, but it will be cleared out sooner than later.I am actually enjoying getting rid of things. I look at it as making way for a restful environment, more time for fun family outings with a clear mind, and more time for creating with my little guy who loves art as much as his momma.

Here we go...

Rain Rain Go Away...

2009-05-18T20:11:00.004-04:00

Today I am fighting with all that I am made of to not spin down into the black hole of depression which I have known before. I am not quite sure where this is coming from. I have been free of depression for just about 9 or 10 years. With the exception of almost 5 years ago when I gave birth. I had a three week bout with postpartum depression. Other than that I only experience the blues once in a while like anyone else does.

I am convinced that springtime and the end of another school year has something to do with it. My little guy will finish up his last year of preschool this week on Friday. In the fall he will be in kindergarten already! My older son has just finished his second year of college and will be 20 in August. I've had other things on my mind this past week as well. I lost a baby 9 years ago today at midnight. My cousin's death was almost a year ago now. Too many of my friends are too busy to get together these days. It's all a little overwhelming and very lonely.

I am not fond of change I will admit, but I usually handle things better than I have been of late. I am in desperate need of some fun! We were planning on going to New York City this weekend for 5 days, but had to cancel due to some unexpected expenses, the swine flu helped a bit, and our oldest wasn't going to be able to go at the last minute. I can take a hint. We were not supposed to go for some reason...

All the rain this spring has given way to some beautiful green grass, flowers, and trees. I am ready for some sunny days though, so the weather will warm up. So rain, rain go away...come again another day.

How was your day? I am done getting things off my chest. Now do I dare post this or hit delete?!

A Bittersweet Mother's Day...

2009-05-08T22:54:00.006-04:00

As I sit here thinking about how lucky I am to be able to have another go a being Momma to my second little guy, it is bittersweet. My 36 year old cousin passed away last June from cancer. She had three kids. This will be her kid's first Mother's Day without her, and her mom's first Mother's Day without her as well. I also have a friend who's son passed away last August. His 23rd birthday was today. I remember hearing her sister in law talk at his funeral about her memories of him coming home from the hospital on Mother's Day, soon after he was born.

Life throws us curve balls every once in a while, and it is how we choose to respond that shows us what we are truly made of. It is with great admiration that I write this post tonight. My friend and her husband are still weathering the storm that was created the day their son passed, but they do so with grace. I believe God has shown them mercy with all the love, support and compassion that surrounds them. People really are good and they do come through in hard times. I just wish it didn't take hard times for people to show up for others.

My cousin has been on my mind all week. This time last year we were getting ready to meet her and her family in Savanah, Georgia to go on to Disney World with them for a week. She died three weeks after we returned from Florida.

So this Mother's Day I will treasure every moment with my son's no matter what we do or don't do. I will inhale the breathes of fresh air which are their personalities, and be thankful to God that he has blessed me with two beautiful boys. Without them my life would most certainly be incomplete.

To Nicole, I know you will be looking down upon those who miss you terribly, and God will grant us the grace to get through the day. We will remember happy times with you and treasure them always until we meet again someday in God's Kingdom. I love you, Nicky.

To Michael, Happy Birthday. You are sorely missed. I'm sure your family spent the day reminiscing about the day you were born. I didn't really know you that well, but what I did know of you was truly a pleasure.

To all those in blogland, I wish for you a peaceful Mother's Day, and the ability to make the most out of every day, not just holidays. Give thanks for those you love and cherish the smallest of moments with them.

Where Does The Time Go...

2009-04-23T23:40:00.003-04:00

My little guy is four and will be five in about 2 months. It seems as though he was just a 2 week old new born last month. How is this possible? There are four weeks of 4 year old preschool left for him. I would love to slow time, but since I know that is not possible I will instead spend every moment I can snuggling, reading to, talking to, playing with, teaching, and loving my sweet little boy. I don't want to miss one precious moment. He is the most energetic and lively little person I have ever known. Everyone loves him and he loves everyone. He's funny and smart and loves life. Not much gets by him and I am positive he will not miss out on anything he wants in life.

My older son will be 20 in August. This seems utterly impossible to me that he is no longer a little guy. Again I feel as though he were just a baby yesterday. How do we let the years go by so quickly without realizing the important moments are slipping away when we're not looking. He is a strong, intelligent, funny, and loving human being. I love spending time talking with, and listening to him. He is a gentle soul and always has been a very easy going person. We have always had a close relationship and can talk about anything. He loves his little brother and his little brother idolizes him.

Two boys, fifteen years apart in age...where does the time go...

Eventually...

2009-04-13T10:58:00.004-04:00

There are many things on my personal "To Do" list. It is personal because it has nothing to do with my family life, and it is not a matter of life and death if these thing don't happen. Maybe I should treat them as though they are life and death so I would get them all done. I have many big aspirations about many projects. My writing, knitting, quilting, paintings, books to read, clay projects, new artistic skills I would like to try, scrapbooking, tweaking my blog (adding photos to the content), setting up my etsy shop, crafts with my little one, time with friends, etc...as you can see the list goes on and on and...I keep telling myself I will involve my four year old in these activities, and that will allow me to work on them. Ha! That never works, because in order to get to them I feel I "should" do the household chores first, then I can "play". When the chores don't all get done I then feel as if I can't do the fun stuff. It is a never ending cycle! I use to do the things I love when I felt like it, but I have let the "shoulds" invade my psyche. This is a quick and effective way to bring to a screeching halt a persons creativity!

One of the lies I tell myself is, "I suppose if I really wanted to do the things on my list I would JUST DO IT!" I think I do this to try and feel better about not doing what I want. Why as women do we constantly tell ourselves the lie that EVENTUALLY when we have time we will get to it (whatever "it" may be)?! I need to do the fun stuff sometimes or I get very grouchy. Yet, I rarely do the activities I listed, so as you can probably imagine I am and have been very grouchy lately!

So here's what I'm thinking...it would actually benefit my family for me to get to some of the items on my list. Right?! No more grouchy wife and momma. No more telling myself, "When I have time I will ________." No more putting fun last.

Yes, I'm sure I will do this EVENTUALLY...

A Person's Perceptions Are As Individual As Their Fingerprints...

2009-03-31T00:11:00.006-04:00

If three different people were to read the same story, more than likely you would get three different perspectives on that story. This is what happened last Friday evening at the writer's group I belong to. I read a piece I had written for my Nonfiction Magazine Article class, which had been well received the evening before in my class, by the instructor as well as other class members. The goal of this writer's group is networking, and helping each other to become the best writer's we can be. One of the activities at the meetings is for anyone who wishes to, to read their work aloud. After the reading other members can either verbally critique what had been read, or write their critique on an index card, meant for the writer's eyes alone. I never read the critique's at the meeting. I will usually wait until I am home and settled in for the night. I like to savor the good one's, and to decifer the one's which I am not clear what the person was trying to say. I had quite a few critique's Friday. All different perspective's, some made no sense whatsoever, other's appreciative of my writing and honest story telling. I write nonficiton primarily. So they are not only commenting on my technical writing skills, but also my opinion or style of writing has come under scrutiny. There are those who totally do not get what the piece is about and they can be the most critical and downright nasty. How what I've written is being percieved is like night and day from one person to the next. It's as individual as a person's fingerprints...to each his own...

Put Away for Safe Keeping...

2009-03-22T22:37:00.006-04:00

Have you ever put something away in a specific spot for safe keeping, and then when you need it you cannot find it? I have (I use the word "have" loosely) a file folder full of poems, essays, and other pieces I have written over the last 11 years, and I am unable to lay my hands on it. Over the last few years I have come across it several times and always put it away so I wouldn't misplace it. Ha! A lot of good that did me...it's been misplaced. My house is not that big and I have turned it upside down looking for my folder of written work. I am just hoping that the last time I ran across it I didn't toss it out in frustration while decluttering my home. Some of my best writing, I am eager to find it. Wherever it may be, it definitely is safe...safe from me...

1 Rainy Day + 1 Lovely Friend + Easy Conversation = A Wonderfully Enjoyable Time...

2009-03-16T18:57:00.010-04:00

It has been a little more than 2 years since my friend and I have seen each other. Over the last couple of years there have been tentative plans to get together, but the usual happened, "something came up" (mostly on my part). Sunday however, we made it to our planned destination, and it was a wonderful time. I have known my friend since June of 1995, we both signed up to take a year long "Baltimore Album" quilt class. We are about the same age and being the two youngest in the class, we naturally gravitated toward each other. We discovered we have sons the same age, and over the years many of the same beliefs and values surfaced as well. The conversation was, and always has been, very easy. Months or even years may pass since last we saw one another, but each time it's as if we pick up the conversation (usually very brief) right where we left it. There is a great deal we have in common and the funny part is we have never really "known" each other. As cliche' as it is, "cut from the same cloth" is how I would describe us. Faith, family, home, friends, and creative work are priorities we both value. So this time together on Sunday, was significant. This was the first time, in the almost 14 years that we've "known" each other, that we sat down, shared a meal, shared more of ourselves (and our lives), and really started to get to know each other. In some ways it's like having a brand new friend, but in reality it was the continuation of a friendship that has spanned over a decade of time. There is a mutual fondness for one another and it has always been as though we are kindred spirits. It is in times like these when I can truly see the hand of God in my life. I cherish this very special friend and look forward to many more get togethers in the future. Friends of the heart are indeed a rare find in life meant to be cherished. Though it was a gray rainy day, sharing time with a lovely friend was a bright spot and a blessing...

To the Scrap Pile...

2009-03-14T22:09:00.004-04:00

Well, I am scrapping the essay I wrote. After class Thursday evening I decided to take it in a different direction. My brain is doing loop de loops! I have so many topics I want to write about, but I can't seem to collect my thoughts on anything specific. I need to get them out of my head, onto paper or computer, then I will be able to focus on one idea at a time, enough to actually write something! I am a total procrastinator, and it's got to stop. I love writing. I love reading about writing. I love talking about writing. I love listening to others talk about their writing. It goes on and on...but I need to be disciplined with my writing time and devote a specific time frame to just writing. Everyday. No surfing the internet, no talking on the phone, no sitting in front of the television, set my alarm and get up in the morning. These crucial adjustments are desperately needed, or nothing will take place on the blank page (or screen) that sits before me.

A cluttered mind definitely makes for a tough road to writing...

Not the Perfect Fit After All...

2009-03-08T17:01:00.007-04:00

Come to find out the magazine I thought was the perfect fit for my essay, isn't. You have to actually live in Austin, Texas where the magazine is published. I discovered this, not in my 3 inch thick writer's market book, but online at the magazine's website. I suppose it is a local Austin publication so they want people who know the area, the people, etc... Oh well, I will find a "perfect fit".

Today was an awesome day at church. The pastor gave an amazing message. Love it when you leave church feeling better than when you went in.

The weather is quite warm today. Almost too warm for this time of year. I am looking forward to a nice quiet evening because of this "heatwave" we are having though. The little guy has run himself all day today, so I know he will be asleep in no time after his bath and dinner. Speaking of which I better go get dinner on the table...

Extreme Conditions...

2009-03-07T14:55:00.005-05:00

Wow! Just 3 days ago it was below freezing...today it is in the mid 70's! How the weather can so fast is beyond me. Listening to the forecast on the news last night, it will be back down to 40 by the end of next week. I seriously think I was the one person (who I know) enjoying the snow and cold this past week. I have a pair of mittens on my knitting needles for my preschooler, a new hat on a second set of needles for my college son, and a new hat going for my husband on yet a third pair of needles. Yes I am a bit of an over achiever when it comes to projects. I usually bite off more then I can finish in one season, but these are relatively small projects I will finish for sure.

My query letter was not as well written as I had hoped. Got to class Thursday night and it was pretty much torn to shreds by the critique's I received from my fellow classmates. Don't get me wrong though, I was very thankful for all the constructive criticism. I am taking the class to learn. I was thankful, because had I sent it off in the current state it was in there definitely would be no editor in their right mind who would ask me to send them my finished essay/article. I learned a valuable lesson, always read whatever you write, out loud to yourself, before you even think of sending it off to an editor. That, and edit it about 50 times so it is as tightly written as possible! I have to write the query again, but will be able to do so with a bit more knowledge of how to do that, than I had before. So I say thank you to my fellow writer's...

Snow Beautiful Snow...

2009-03-02T11:28:00.006-05:00

Today is the 30th anniversary of when my husband and I started dating! Wow, time flies...

Here in Maryland, we finally got a significant amount of snow! As well as the day off from work...what to do first? Writing or knitting? Maybe some housework I didn't get to this weekend? Nah!!! Fun stuff definitely. Snow angels, snowmen, photos of the snow, and anything else we can think of to do with the snow. We have been wishing (praying) for a good snow since Christmas, and it worked. My little guy is happy, and in his words, "I'm so cited, Momma!" I know there are those who hate to see the white stuff, but not us. This snowfall cancelled a business trip that my husband was to leave for this afternoon, and no school or work. It's good all around. Just be and enjoy it, I say. We're planning on getting the most out of this break in routine.

Oh! By the way, I got my query letter written night before last. Once I started writing, it came together nicely. With the letter done, I then tweaked the article a bit. Got out my "Writer's Market" book and found a magazine to send the query to almost immediately. This was a surprise since the book is about 3 inches thick! I found the perfect fit for my article though. Keep your fingers crossed for me that the editor accepts my proposal, and they want to publish the article (it's more like an essay-which they accept too). It's a little scary, but at the same time exciting. This has been a dream for a long time, and to finally be doing something about accomplishing that dream...well, let's just say it feels good. There's a quote I like: "What would you do if you knew you would not fail?". I could have done this a long time ago, but listened too much to my negative thoughts and didn't think I had a chance. We'll see...have a spectacular day everyone!

I am Stuck...

2009-02-28T16:40:00.005-05:00

I've got to write a query letter for my writing class, for an article I haven't even written yet. I'm finding it very difficult. I may have to write the article then the letter. It's like writing fiction for me, writing a letter about something that hasn't been written yet, and I am no good at fiction writing. We had dinner with friends (three other couples) last night. It was fun, but I had this writing assignment in the back of my mind the whole time...ugh! I love the class though, and am learning a lot. There is more to nonfiction publishing than I realized. However, when it is broken down step by step, like is being done in this class, it makes it all seem possible. I would not have known where to start on my own otherwise. Thursday, a few people had their query letters and read them aloud. It was quite intimidating. They were all very well written. This week we are finishing those up, and are to send them to a magazine editor. The next assignment is the article that was proposed in the letter. This is the easy part of the assignment in my opinion.

On the home front, we are supposedly going to have a significant snowfall here in the next couple of days. I hope we actually get a good amount of snow, that will stick around for a few days. What usually happens is a little snow, then immediately after rain follows melting it all. When you have a little guy who just wants to play in the snow you wish for it. I think I will set up my writing area this evening. I'll post some before and after photos if I do.

I'm off to write a query letter...wish me luck.

Each One of Us is Unique with Something to Offer the World...

2009-02-19T22:32:00.008-05:00

Just returned from my writing class, so inspired I don't know where to start with the assignment for next week. The one real focal point that the instructor keeps trying to drive home with everyone in the class is do your research. Research, research, and research some more. In other words know the market. I had an idea what magazines I wanted to query, but a couple of them are not publishing the type of articles I would lean toward writing. There is a lot of reading and comparing to be done, between the different magazines out there. I love nonfiction. It lends itself so easily to so many topics. Every person has a story to tell that would be of interest to someone else("Experience is the best teacher" and all that)...when I started thinking about some of the experiences of my life it amazed me, because I realized I am a stronger person than I ever thought I was. Not only stronger, but smarter than I've given myself credit for, or anyone else has ever given me credit for.

Condoleeza Rice, was recently on a talk show speaking about what she is going to do now that she is the former Secretary of State. She was also talking about what incredible parents she had growing up and she referred to them as "Extraordinarily ordinary". Each of us is unique in our life experiences, and if we have the ability to convey that into the written word then all the better. We should all use our God given talents, whatever they may be (extraordinary or ordinary), by turning them into something for the betterment, of ourselves, others, and possibly the world outside of our immediate daily surroundings. Someone, somewhere, will be touched by what we have to say.

1st Step (a very small step) to Starting My Writing Career

2009-02-16T21:09:00.004-05:00

I am taking a nonfiction writing class at my local college, and part of the homework for class last week was to submit something to Reader's Digest. I submitted an original quote this evening...so, we'll see... Supposedly it is a real task to get anything published in their magazine. It may be that they have a regular staff of writer's. I collect quotes but I also write my own original one's, too. A good quote can say quite a lot in just a few choice words.

I actually wear the quote I submitted, on a hand stamped silver bracelet that a dear friend made for me for Christmas. I had sent her the quote a while ago, and the bracelet showed up with a note saying it was a gift. (So thoughtful!) The website for her business is http://www.mountaingirlsilver.com/. Go over and check it out. There are really beautiful silver jewelry pieces there. If you do order anything please let her know Sandi sent you. I don't get anything for promoting her work. It's just my way of sending the love back to E...Thanks!

Testing....

2009-02-16T04:35:00.008-05:00

Here we go. I am starting this blog not being sure what the main focus will be. It may start out as a blog following my adventures writing my first book. We'll see...I am thinking it will be maybe 3 posts a week at first, until I get into the swing of keeping a regular blog. I am into so many things it's hard to choose. For now it may be a hodge podge of posts at first. It will fall into place as I write I'm sure. However, I am definitely going to be joining Marta from www.martawrites.blogspot.com on 2.23.09 for her "writing 101 project". Thanks for joining me on my new adventure...