Here it is!
1.) One book that changed your life.
The Holy Bible: By God
I pray it will continue to change my life.
2.) One book that you have read more than once.
The Mark of the Lion series by Francine Rivers
I have read many books more than once, but this one comes to mind as I read the series (more than 1000 pages) most recently while waiting for Talia’s arrival.
3.) One book you would want on a desert island.
Two come to mind. The Bible if I suspected I would never make it home. A survival guide if I though rescue was possible.
4.) Two books that made you laugh.
1. Diary of a Worm by Doreen Cronin
2. A Long Way from Chicago by Richard Peck
While this book was written for late elementary or middle school children, I think most adults would find it to be a hoot. It is a nostalgic look at summers spent in the South with a hilarious, spirited grandma.
5.) One book that made you cry.
Love You Forever by Robert Munsch, illustrated by Sheila McGraw
6.) One book you wish you'd written.
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austin
I would love to have such wit and intelligent conversation.
7.) One book you wish had never been written.
The Awakening by Kate Chopin
This highly esteemed novel paints in disgust the treasure of being a wife and mom. The heroine, being both, is so dissatisfied with her life that she ends it. This final scene is so poetically written, that it seems to condone her actions. It has been 10 years since I read this book and I still find it repulsive.
8.) Two books you are currently reading.
Emma by Jane Austin
What to Expect: The First Year by Eisenberg, Murkoff, and Hathaway
9.) One book you've been meaning to read.
The Case for a Creator by Lee Strobel
I actually began this book several years ago and never finished it.
***
For the 1-2-3 meme, the directions are:
1) Pick up the nearest book (of at least 123 pages).
2) Open the book to page 123.
3) Find the fifth sentence.
4) Post the next three sentences.
5) Tag five people.
CSS: The Missing Manual: David Sawyer McFarland (obviously Jon’s book).
1. Launch your Web browser and open the file chapter_6 - text.html (see figure 6-10).
As usual, you will be working on a Web page from CosmoFarmer.com. In this case there’s already an external style sheet attached to the page, adding some design and layout touches.
Tagged: Angie (double tagged), Melody, Sarah, Joy (when you have a chance; I will give you a few months), Claudia
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Monday, March 24, 2008
Hidden Treasure
Sometimes you search for treasure, other times you stumble upon it, and occasionally you receive it as a gift. Treasure, by all means of acquisition, has been the theme for this week.
Hunted Treasures
Two weeks ago I would have assumed "geocaching" referred to world banking or international ATMs (Okay, I would have known the difference between cache and cash if I had seen it in writing). Today it is a new family hobby. In the past week, Jon and I have embarked on five successful geocaching adventures. Just in case some of you shared my ignorance, I will attempt to enlighten you.
Geocaching is a "sport" whose participants search for caches hidden all over the world. Geocachers find these caches using handheld GPS devices and a little detective work. Some caches require clue decryption and riddle solving. Others are solved in stages, the final stage resulting in the discovery of the cache. Most require a little hiking and patient searching. Inside every cache is a log where all previous geocachers have signed and dated their discovery. Most caches have various (and sometimes comical) items of negligible value. You can bring an item from home (or from a previous cache) and exchange it for a new found item. Geocaching adventures can range from easy (found in a few minutes) to difficult (taking months to solve). Caches can be hidden in bustling cities, popular tourist locations, or remote forests. Some geocachers even treasure hunt in the eerie shadows of moonlight. If you are curious, you can read more at www.geocaching.com.
Combining the challenge and competition of gaming with the exercise and adventure of hiking, geocaching has quickly become a family pastime. We could not enjoy this hobby if it weren't for Jim and Melody. They not only introduced us to geocaching, they are also letting us borrow their GPS unit. Here we are on a few geocaching adventures.
Chance Treasures
Jon and I had a conversation this month about the existence of four-leaf clovers. We know with certainty that they exist as Jon happened upon one today. It is estimated that there is 1 four-leaf clover for every 10,000 three-leaf clovers. Jon is so observant!
Gifted Treasures
Baby Bonnet: Auntie Nikki and Auntie Angie bought Talia a beautifully handmade bonnet, dress, and sweater. Nikki and Daniel drove all the way to South Carolina to commission these adorable pieces that Talia will treasure and possibly pass on to our future granddaughter (should we be blessed with one in the distant future). Talia has tried them on several times, but she finally got to wear the ensemble for Easter Sunday. Mommy took quite a few pictures. Nikki and Mom also posted some beautiful pictures of Talia in her bonnet on their blogs.
Talia: Every day I am reminded of the amazing treasure that God has entrusted to our care. Talia fills our hearts with joy, laughter, and love. Training up Talia is an enormous task that we prayerfully take up daily. She is a pleasure to parent, but we know that God's wisdom will become ever more precious as she grows. We are treasuring every moment.
He will be the sure foundation for your times,
a rich store of salvation and wisdom and knowledge;
the fear of the LORD is the key to this treasure.
Isaiah 33:6
Hunted Treasures
Two weeks ago I would have assumed "geocaching" referred to world banking or international ATMs (Okay, I would have known the difference between cache and cash if I had seen it in writing). Today it is a new family hobby. In the past week, Jon and I have embarked on five successful geocaching adventures. Just in case some of you shared my ignorance, I will attempt to enlighten you.
Geocaching is a "sport" whose participants search for caches hidden all over the world. Geocachers find these caches using handheld GPS devices and a little detective work. Some caches require clue decryption and riddle solving. Others are solved in stages, the final stage resulting in the discovery of the cache. Most require a little hiking and patient searching. Inside every cache is a log where all previous geocachers have signed and dated their discovery. Most caches have various (and sometimes comical) items of negligible value. You can bring an item from home (or from a previous cache) and exchange it for a new found item. Geocaching adventures can range from easy (found in a few minutes) to difficult (taking months to solve). Caches can be hidden in bustling cities, popular tourist locations, or remote forests. Some geocachers even treasure hunt in the eerie shadows of moonlight. If you are curious, you can read more at www.geocaching.com.
Combining the challenge and competition of gaming with the exercise and adventure of hiking, geocaching has quickly become a family pastime. We could not enjoy this hobby if it weren't for Jim and Melody. They not only introduced us to geocaching, they are also letting us borrow their GPS unit. Here we are on a few geocaching adventures.
Chance Treasures
Jon and I had a conversation this month about the existence of four-leaf clovers. We know with certainty that they exist as Jon happened upon one today. It is estimated that there is 1 four-leaf clover for every 10,000 three-leaf clovers. Jon is so observant!
Gifted Treasures
Baby Bonnet: Auntie Nikki and Auntie Angie bought Talia a beautifully handmade bonnet, dress, and sweater. Nikki and Daniel drove all the way to South Carolina to commission these adorable pieces that Talia will treasure and possibly pass on to our future granddaughter (should we be blessed with one in the distant future). Talia has tried them on several times, but she finally got to wear the ensemble for Easter Sunday. Mommy took quite a few pictures. Nikki and Mom also posted some beautiful pictures of Talia in her bonnet on their blogs.
Talia: Every day I am reminded of the amazing treasure that God has entrusted to our care. Talia fills our hearts with joy, laughter, and love. Training up Talia is an enormous task that we prayerfully take up daily. She is a pleasure to parent, but we know that God's wisdom will become ever more precious as she grows. We are treasuring every moment.
He will be the sure foundation for your times,
a rich store of salvation and wisdom and knowledge;
the fear of the LORD is the key to this treasure.
Isaiah 33:6
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Our Baby Is Growing Up So Fast!
I am amazed at how much Talia learns and grows every day. Whether it is pulling off her mittens, righting herself as she starts to tip over, or having "ah ha" moments as she discovers she can knock on the door, we can see her little mind constantly at work.
Talia's second tooth broke through on Monday. While new teeth are a big change, I think I am most amazed at her ability to sit up. It seems that our Talia has gone from dependent baby to independent little girl as she sits and plays. We love to watch her look at an object, pick it up, play with it, put it down, then grab another toy and begin the process again. Sometimes she decides that one toy is not enough. She gets her teething ring around her arm, her book on her lap, and one block in each hand. I call this multitasking. Here are a few pictures of our big baby.
Long Talia!
The disappearing legs trick.
Daddy tells Talia secrets.
Talia won't be pinched this St. Patrick's Day! If you click on the picture and look at a larger size, you should be able to see at least one of her new teeth.
Talia and Daddy show off their tongue talents.
Too cute!
Talia tries some of Daddy's apple.
Apple motivation.
Our friends' son Spencer turned one this week. He had a circus themed birthday party. It was very fun for all ages. Here is Spencer with his mommy.
Spencer's family incorporated some first birthday activities from the Korean culture. Here he is in traditional attire with his daddy.
In true circus theme, Pinky the clown entertained us all. Talia was curious of this lady whose uniqueness rivaled Mommy's. She watched Pinky,
Looked at Mommy for reassurance,
Then watched her some more.
Talia took turns watching the clown and playing with toys.
We both had loads of fun!
Talia's second tooth broke through on Monday. While new teeth are a big change, I think I am most amazed at her ability to sit up. It seems that our Talia has gone from dependent baby to independent little girl as she sits and plays. We love to watch her look at an object, pick it up, play with it, put it down, then grab another toy and begin the process again. Sometimes she decides that one toy is not enough. She gets her teething ring around her arm, her book on her lap, and one block in each hand. I call this multitasking. Here are a few pictures of our big baby.
Long Talia!
The disappearing legs trick.
Daddy tells Talia secrets.
Talia won't be pinched this St. Patrick's Day! If you click on the picture and look at a larger size, you should be able to see at least one of her new teeth.
Talia and Daddy show off their tongue talents.
Too cute!
Talia tries some of Daddy's apple.
Apple motivation.
Our friends' son Spencer turned one this week. He had a circus themed birthday party. It was very fun for all ages. Here is Spencer with his mommy.
Spencer's family incorporated some first birthday activities from the Korean culture. Here he is in traditional attire with his daddy.
In true circus theme, Pinky the clown entertained us all. Talia was curious of this lady whose uniqueness rivaled Mommy's. She watched Pinky,
Looked at Mommy for reassurance,
Then watched her some more.
Talia took turns watching the clown and playing with toys.
We both had loads of fun!
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Bittersweet
On Sunday night we returned from a trip to Southern California. The trip was full of tears, reminiscing, reunions, and laughter. We wept for our loss, but celebrated the life and heavenly home-coming of my grandmother. Hours were spent rummaging through old family photos. I saw my Uncle Steve and Aunt Mary for the first time in perhaps 13 years. Talia enjoyed playing with Aunt Mary. It was fun to see my cousin Jacqueline who is becoming kind, smart, and beautiful young lady. Hopefully she will forgive me for calling her "big," but the last time I saw her was when she was 7. It was also nice to see her dad, Uncle Roger. My dad's cousin, Mike, and his wife, Mary, were also present. I have many memories of Christmas Eves spent at Grandmother's house with them and their sons. We also laughed and sang. It was wonderful to be home with Mom, Dad, Nikki, and Angie. Talia was cuddled, entertained, loved, and spoiled by her grandparents and aunties. With all the reunions and activities, I neglected to take many pictures. I did manage a few. Here is Talia dancing with Uncle Beau, Grandma, and Grandpa.
Daddy had fun with Talia. Here is proof.
Because I forgot to post these in our previous trip photos, here are some pictures from the Jelly Belly Factory.
On another note, Talia's first tooth broke through. She began teething while in Southern California. She did such a great job mourning that Daddy had to take her out of the service to help her regain her composure. I will try to capture a picture of her little tooth soon.
Revelation 21:4
And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.
Daddy had fun with Talia. Here is proof.
Because I forgot to post these in our previous trip photos, here are some pictures from the Jelly Belly Factory.
On another note, Talia's first tooth broke through. She began teething while in Southern California. She did such a great job mourning that Daddy had to take her out of the service to help her regain her composure. I will try to capture a picture of her little tooth soon.
Revelation 21:4
And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.
Celebrity Morph by MyHeritage
Jon and I were playing around on the computer this morning morphing pictures and trying celebrity look-alikes. I wouldn't put much stock in the accuracy of the look-alikes because they change when you try a different photo. This site also has a meter to see which parent your child most resembles. With the photos we tried, Talia looked 4% more like Mommy than Daddy. I imagine this would work better when comparing adult children to parents. This is a pretty fun waste of time :).
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
My Loving Grandmother
The news stung. I believed that two years of mourning the loss of her personality would spare me the grief of losing her life. I was wrong. Through God's grace, my sadness is overpowered by the joyful realization that our separation is only temporary. But it still hurts.
Memories of days spent at Grandmother and Granddaddy's house replay in my mind. I see loving faces, I hear laughter and loud talking, I smell basted turkey roasting in the oven, I taste delectable pies and tangy lemon drops, and I feel warm hugs and soft kisses. Whether it was the holidays, making apricot preserves, snapping freshly picked peas, or just my turn to spend the night, I am wrapped up in warm memories of two beautiful people who lavished me with love.
Grandmother encouraged me with words of love and praise. During some of my less secure years, she made me feel beautiful. Her kindness lifted me up. Grandmother told us many times how proud she was of her "chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry" granddaughters. Grandmother made me believe in true love. She told me many times that God had blessed her with two wonderful husbands that she loved deeply. Her deep, intense mourning at the loss of Granddaddy bore witness to this passionate love.
One precious memory of Grandmother involved a curious little girl eyeing a beautiful hot pepper growing in the garden. I asked Daddy what it was and he encouraged me to try a bite (I still remember paying no head to that mischievous smile). I bit into that glossy red fruit and was soon wailing, my mouth on fire. You should have seen Grandmother. She simultaneously let Dad have her fury while whisking me to the bathroom to squelch my burning mouth. Nobody could mess with her grandbabies, not even her loving son! That was Grandmother, loving and gentle, yet equally passionate and strong.
Here are a few pictures of my grandmother:
Mom returned to me a Christmas card that I made for Grandmother when I was a child. I composed a little rhyme for her. While simple and far from literary genius, the words still ring true.
"To my grandma I'd love to say,
I love you much in every way."
I really do.
Memories of days spent at Grandmother and Granddaddy's house replay in my mind. I see loving faces, I hear laughter and loud talking, I smell basted turkey roasting in the oven, I taste delectable pies and tangy lemon drops, and I feel warm hugs and soft kisses. Whether it was the holidays, making apricot preserves, snapping freshly picked peas, or just my turn to spend the night, I am wrapped up in warm memories of two beautiful people who lavished me with love.
Grandmother encouraged me with words of love and praise. During some of my less secure years, she made me feel beautiful. Her kindness lifted me up. Grandmother told us many times how proud she was of her "chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry" granddaughters. Grandmother made me believe in true love. She told me many times that God had blessed her with two wonderful husbands that she loved deeply. Her deep, intense mourning at the loss of Granddaddy bore witness to this passionate love.
One precious memory of Grandmother involved a curious little girl eyeing a beautiful hot pepper growing in the garden. I asked Daddy what it was and he encouraged me to try a bite (I still remember paying no head to that mischievous smile). I bit into that glossy red fruit and was soon wailing, my mouth on fire. You should have seen Grandmother. She simultaneously let Dad have her fury while whisking me to the bathroom to squelch my burning mouth. Nobody could mess with her grandbabies, not even her loving son! That was Grandmother, loving and gentle, yet equally passionate and strong.
Here are a few pictures of my grandmother:
Mom returned to me a Christmas card that I made for Grandmother when I was a child. I composed a little rhyme for her. While simple and far from literary genius, the words still ring true.
"To my grandma I'd love to say,
I love you much in every way."
I really do.
Monday, March 3, 2008
In Praise of Beach Vacations
We returned from our cheese vacation on Thursday night, unpacked, did laundry, replenished our dwindling food supply, repacked and left for Bodega Bay on Sunday morning. Jon's parents rented a house on the beach (not technically on the beach, but there were no other houses in front of ours) and invited a couple from church and our family to join them. Here is a picture of some of us. If you look closely, you can see our yellow house above Cheri's head.
Jon's parents and the Lindblooms graciously gave us the bedroom with this view.
Poor Jon had to work for two days while the rest of us enjoyed ourselves. Talia and Mommy went on a four mile hike with Grandma, Grandpa, Dave, and Cheri. Mommy was pretty tired by the end, and so was Talia. Grandpa even helped carry Talia part of the time. It was a beautiful hike and the weather was perfect.
Daddy did get in on some of the fun. Here are Daddy and Daughter.
Daddy showed Talia a new type of chair. Talia loved it!
Grandpa discovered an activity that helped Talia put a cork in it.
We enjoyed the beach. Jon and I played "rock of challenge." I tried to invent a new game called "straight line challenge." The goal is to choose a straight path along the shoreline and walk without veering, regardless of the ebb and flow. It sounded like a good idea, until I was soaked nearly to my hips. Jon was smart enough to not participate, chalking it up to another one of my hare-brained ideas. Here we are in some of my more sane moments.
This one is just for fun! Come on people, the photographer isn't even running!
They obviously would have lost "straight line challenge."
Here are our generous hosts.
We went to the restaurant were Hitchcock's "The Birds" was filmed. You literally sit over the water. We watched seals playing and diving birds fishing. Talia went for a walk with Grandpa and came back with a stuffed sea gull. That girl knows how to charm the men in her life.
We had a wonderful trip! Thanks again Grandma and Grandpa!
Jon's parents and the Lindblooms graciously gave us the bedroom with this view.
Poor Jon had to work for two days while the rest of us enjoyed ourselves. Talia and Mommy went on a four mile hike with Grandma, Grandpa, Dave, and Cheri. Mommy was pretty tired by the end, and so was Talia. Grandpa even helped carry Talia part of the time. It was a beautiful hike and the weather was perfect.
Daddy did get in on some of the fun. Here are Daddy and Daughter.
Daddy showed Talia a new type of chair. Talia loved it!
Grandpa discovered an activity that helped Talia put a cork in it.
We enjoyed the beach. Jon and I played "rock of challenge." I tried to invent a new game called "straight line challenge." The goal is to choose a straight path along the shoreline and walk without veering, regardless of the ebb and flow. It sounded like a good idea, until I was soaked nearly to my hips. Jon was smart enough to not participate, chalking it up to another one of my hare-brained ideas. Here we are in some of my more sane moments.
This one is just for fun! Come on people, the photographer isn't even running!
They obviously would have lost "straight line challenge."
Here are our generous hosts.
We went to the restaurant were Hitchcock's "The Birds" was filmed. You literally sit over the water. We watched seals playing and diving birds fishing. Talia went for a walk with Grandpa and came back with a stuffed sea gull. That girl knows how to charm the men in her life.
We had a wonderful trip! Thanks again Grandma and Grandpa!
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