Zofia

Gifts are something worth sharing about.

PEOPLE are the some of the best gifts we can ever receive.

RELATIONSHIPS are so important to all of us.

As I type this, my good friend Zofia is asleep in our spare room. She was our neighbor in Winnipeg. Our houses were so close that one could reach out our north-south facing windows and touch the other! Her oldest son's room looked into our room. (Those blinds stayed closed 90% of the time!! )

Zofia is a gift. She won't mind if I tell you about her, she is a very open person and believes that if parts of her story can encourage or inspire others, then it should be shared.

She moved from Poland with her husband and young son 20 years ago. I might be getting details mixed up, but I think her first home in Winnipeg was in the basement suite of a house on the street we lived on - but not the house she eventually bought.

Her children are (today) between the ages of 8 and 26. Her youngest three children were born in Canada. She will be a grandmother in a few months. She laughs when I talk about her looks, but she is very young looking and -in my opinion -glamorous - especially when she is going to church. :) Her commitment to the Polish Catholic faith is complete, and her youngest child is now attending catechism each week.

After some difficult times in her life, she spent some time reflecting. She calls it her awakening. I was privileged to be close enough in proximity and relationship to journey along with her on parts of the process. She even says that one day at lunch I called her 'strong' and convinced her that she might be. I think she was just open and ready to grow.

The awakening was in many ways spiritual (or at least, that was the most evident part to me). She became increasingly aware of God's presence in her life and realized that he'd been there all along, but she just hadn't been as aware. All of a sudden, music, sunrises, conversations, tears, patients in her health care role, her children -most things in her daily life - took on new meaning and she saw something deeper. Her world was different. There was a new beauty in every day and I actually saw this happening in her. Conversations with her changed, her voice and even her face changed as she 'awoke' to something new. She started each new day feeling with a security and faith that were becoming companions and increasing her joy.

There have been many changes in her life since she 'awoke' - most of them difficult ones. But she continues to align her life and choices with the things she's realized. For example, she told me last night that her children will find very little in the way of 'things' under the tree at Christmastime from now on - instead money will be spent on EXPERIENCES to enjoy together. (they went on a four week holiday to Europe this past summer and she takes them to plays and performances as often as she can...)

Zofia is a poet.

We spent some of our time together typing and editing her poetry... I'm attaching two of my favorites.. one old (from when we were neighbors) and one that she just shared with me.

(remember that english is Zofia's 2nd language.. so try to hear the poems with a wonderfully accented voice... :)

Droplets that Broke the Spell

The droplets were falling slow
From every direction that I’ve ever known
Every one came on time, landed deep
I couldn’t run away from them or skip

The droplets were timely, it wasn’t a chance
They would not allow me to live in the same trance
Every one brought its message, made me think
If I continued on the same course, I would only sink

The awakening had happened to me
Because my spirit was meant to be free
Wasn’t meant to be suppressed and kept in a cage
Such a treatment is certain to trigger some rage

The next chapter is up to me to write
If only the guidance sustains by my side
I received special tool, I can’t afford to lose
I hope the page stays open so I can use
The gift that I was presented for free
Which was the understanding that made me to see
That everything is different, nothing is the same
I was allowed to enter another life game

The awakening had happened to me
Because my spirit was meant to be free
Was meant to be loved, cherished every day
Such assurance is certain to keep me on the right way

My heart’s deep desire is answered at last
I need to stay tuned, so it would not pass
I hope the droplets will continue to appear
So one day I can say: “ I am completely free, without fear.”

The Power of Thought
There is way more here for me
Than your naked eye can see
I am following my dream
Its not triggered by a sin
There is thought behind my action
You could say I’m on a mission
The light is green, its only fair
I’m taking time to thoroughly prepare
My intention stays the same
Regardless of what you say
It will not weaken my strength,
It does not matter what you think
The presumption is on you
The conclusion that you drew
Is a product of your thought
Will not change the way I talk
There is way more here for me
Than your naked eye can see
I will try and try again
As long as it won’t cause pain
As long as its meant to be
The result will come, you’ll see
Impossible is nothing, dear,
Something whispers to my ear
Don’t you try to stop me now,
I’m determined, my dear pal
I feel this internal need,
I’ll try hard- I might succeed
I will not be stopped by fear
I’ll pursue my dream, its near
If I gave up, never tried,
I could waste my entire life

Merry Christmas

I found a neat video posted on one of Jamie's sites; the Little Flowers Community. It's an advent reflection assembled by Christine Sine, check it out here.
I've had a link to Jamie's blog ever since I started blogging. He's a fellow Winnipeg-er, and co-directs YWAM Urban Ministries Winnipeg with his wife. We don't know each other well, but I've learned a bit from reading his ideas -I'd encourage you to check his blog from time to time. I'm usually inspired when I do. The Little Flowers community is an intriguing partnership with Mennonite Church MB - I almost wish we still lived in Winnipeg so I could learn more about it!

I also got this you tube video from a friend. It has scenes from the Nativity Movie set to Christmas music.

If you have a minute, enjoy!

** look for an upcoming post with Christmas photos.. we had an awesome and memorable celebration with the Shields' and the Marsolais' --- fiddling and playing the spoons were part of the evening program :) .. and we weren't even in Quebec! Crazy things happen when you get all the french speaking people in one town together on Christmas day...!! **

Can you feel it?

There are a couple of repeated messages/news items that I keep hearing lately.. some people are connecting them. I'm with them...

First, the economy is the biggest news item going. Even the seasonal cards and letters we received at work were laced with references to our sagging and struggling economy. You can't open a magazine or a news site without hearing about how bleak and difficult things are.

Second, is a growing desire to return to simpler lifestyles, frugal choices.. consuming less and losing the motivation to accumulate stuff. Being more contemplative about how we live... a desire for more being replaced with a desire for less... Macleans had a cover article about frugality recently that helped me to see that this is a bigger trend than I had thought.


Have you noticed it too? This week, I was reflecting on this and wondered if the Spirit of God is behind it all.. you know, we (I?) tend to think of the Spirit often in terms of our personal lives, our own needs, relationships, our context... (or maybe thats just me) - we sometimes neglect to consider the larger picture, the ways that a sovereign God interacts with humanity and creation. It seems like there is something afoot in North America. I'm excited about what this means for North American Christians... Many people are listening, caring, longing to rightly respond... I read their books, blogs, and articles. Even though I have difficulty connecting the overall state of Christianity in our culture with the individual people that I interact with and know... the truth is that the church has somehow failed the rest of the world. It feels like we're realizing that, and wanting to do more about it. It feels like real justice, mercy, compassion, selflessness are increasingly pursued and noticed. It feels like we're seeing that we need to do more than send a few missionaries or service workers overseas, or more than sending a cheque in the mail. It feels right.

__________________________________

So often during this advent season, I've bowed my head to pray and the prayer that springs immediately to mind is: 'Come, Holy Spirit..'

So now, I pray it for our world.. Come.. Holy Spirit.. be sovereign over our lifestyles, our culture, our blind spots, our priorities.
___________________

My growing Christmas wish list:

• I wish for children all over the world to be cared for.



• I wish for diseases and medical concerns that could be easily treated in the first world to be easily treated everywhere.



• I wish to be cured of Affluenza.



• I wish for no children to be involved in the sex trade.



• I wish for no children to ever have to become soldiers.



• I wish for access to clean water for people all over the world.



• I wish for people with much to be willing to share, to take responsibility.



• I wish for sustainable lifestyles all over the world.



• I wish for corrupt governments to become just.



• I wish for the horrible disease of greed to be cured.



• I wish for people people to stop doing nothing because they think they can't make a difference anyway.



• I wish for courageous, innovative, inspired leaders to show us how to rethink our faith and our responsibilities.

I hope some of you readers will interact with these observations.. I know I'm not the only one thinking about this stuff...

My Christmas List

... maybe its advent conspiracy, or maybe it was the message in church yesterday, or some combination of recent reflections... but I've been thinking about what I really want for Christmas. Christmas lists are one LIST I never got into the habit of making.. so for Mom, who told me on Sunday that she reads this blog often .. here, finally, is the Christmas list you always asked me for... although, maybe this isn't what you had in mind? :)

• lots of conversations where people are truly themselves, not being false or pretending


• to have lower expectations and be less critical


• to be the kind of person who always offers dignity and grace to EVERYONE


• to be wiser about time- maybe more efficient


• FUN!!


• lots of eye contact, hugs and other evidences of relationship


• a sense of true connection with others


• to trust God more, be worried less


• to offer the kind of friendship that really hears and doesn't judge


• a cleaner house


• to grow in discernment, taking seriously the command to really see and really hear


• A book recommended to me called "the same kind of different as me"

small town life ...

... there is something amazing and awesome about living in a small community.

Coming from a lifetime city dweller, living in a little village is awesome. Wide open spaces, long walks on country roads any time of day, bike rides past farms and acreages, so many important things are nearby, horses trot down Main street, fairs that the whole town attends... so good.

Even better (for an extrovert, anyway :) are the relationships that are so easy to maintain and friends who are always nearby. If you need a listening ear, someone to laugh with, a little impromptu celebration, some encouragement or someone to tell you what you need to hear... all close by.

I just had a great night - a reminder of how good it is to live in a really great community.

Thanks, ladies!

A girly post...

..... About emotions........
My emotions have gotten the best of me a couple of times lately. I've been unusually teary, angry, or sad around people who have not really seen me in those ways before. (well, because I used to live in Winnipeg where my sisters are, so if I felt a need, there was always one of them with a shoulder to cry on or a floor to stomp on.)

So, I was feeling a little down on myself for being emotional. Especially in public kinds of ways...

But then, I thought about it. and I realized, hey, wait a minute.. where and who would I be without emotions?? And didn't I learn a long time ago that a blessing or a burden are just different sides of the same coin? Why am I feeling like this is a huge burden?

Why don't I instead consider the blessings of emotion. And I made a long list of things that fill me up on the inside:

• hugging my kids.
• seeing my daughter up on a stage, singing with a beautiful choir
• singing a song of worship to God
• appreciating my husband as he just does what he does and is who he is
• decorating the Christmas Tree, all the remembering
• The Word became flesh and moved in to the neighborhood. Unbelievable.
• praying for friends and family
• hearing about someone's journey
• the everyday sounds in our house.. like kids playing guitar or giggling on the phone
• babies
• being on teams of amazing people
• collaborative journals :)
• watching my kids interact and communicate well (it does happen every so often...)
• I could go on but its 11:32pm.

I'm feeling pretty thankful for the privilege of being emotional.

Spilling over

In researching and reading many wonderful books, I ask myself some questions.. like:

1. Why must I work? Why can't I just read and study and learn and be inspired?


2. How did these people get so smart?


3. and other questions like that. I also get distracted with coffee, facebook, snacks, many things.

So, I will inspire (bore?) (annoy?) (challenge?) you with some of the quotes I'm reading, because staying on track and just studying is so very difficult for me.

Peter Toon, in a book called God's Kingdom for Today: "When we ask ourselves 'how do we love ourselves', the answer, if we are honest, must be that we love ourselves selfishly. We are sinners, and we tend always to think of ourselves first. Therefore, since Jesus knew that our hearts are imperfect, he made clear the meaning of loving others by giving it definite content. After washing the sweaty feet of his disciples, he said "a new commandment I give to you, love one another'.. Later that day, Jesus referred to himself as the 'true Vine' to whom his disciples are united. He said, love one another as I have loved you. So, to love the neighbor is to imitate Christ; it is to love as he loved."

Have you ever known someone who somehow believed in you more than you could ever believe in yourself? The unwavering confidence of Jesus Christ in the church over the centuries is staggering - and its not because the church has earned it. - from The Magnificent Obsession, Swartz

The kingdom of God aches for courageous people who are willing to treat the wounds within the church.... more from Swartz.

...think about it!

It's so expensive!!!

How often do we say that? In my mind, anytime I'm in a retail establishment, that statement is like a skipping CD over and over and over as I shop and compare and decide what to leave on the shelf and what to take home ... and how do I determine what is expensive and what is affordable? By comparing items to each other, of course. I do this all the time!!

But I was just doing a little surfing (explained once again by the fact that I'm supposed to be writing a research paper!) and I was on the Me to We site... I heard Craig Kielberger in Winnipeg a while back, at the Delta (where all the best breakfast meetings were always held with the tastiest orange juice in the city!.. and a parking lot that took me ALL the years I lived in that city to figure out!)...anyway, Me to We is marketing clothing now, so I was having a look. and of course, it ran through my head.....These t-shirts ARE SOOOO EXPENSIVE. and then a post began to form in my mind.

I was remembering a video I watched on Jeff's site, all about the product chain from production to consumption to disposal ... and one of the things mentioned was EXTERNALIZING COSTS. -Fancy phrase for something that retailers and manufacturers conspire to do in order to make other (poorer) people pay so the wealthiest people in the world can have more stuff for less money. (Thats the kelly interpretation)

Think about it.. I'll tell you a little of my journey with thoughts like this. I have been thinking about it. You know those shoe boxes we send to children in developing countries? Our family did them for years, some years we'd do 5-6/year. Then, one year, there was this great new store to help us with the shoebox items... Dollarama. I shopped at the first one in Winnipeg, on N. Henderson. It was awesome! They had much better selection than other dollar stores we'd bought items from, and I could get stuff for boys or girls, all ages, all in one stop. Great! Doing good deeds and convenience all wrapped up in one nice package with big green and yellow lettering. Makes me all ready for the holidays.
But hold on... how can these toothbrushes and pens and puppets and books and flashlights and crayons and socks and dolls and masks and toys all be $1 each?!?!??! How can the overhead, the wages, the shipping, the marketing, the manufacturing, everything be covered by my measly little loonie?

Something is fishy here... It just doesn't make sense. Someone, somewhere is paying for this because there is NO WAY that the costs and profits (and you can bet your very last loonie that Profits aren't the thing being sacrificed for me to pay low prices!!) are being covered by the retail price I'm paying.

Hey... wait a minute... I wonder if the economic circumstances in all those countries where the thousands and thousands of shoe boxes are being sent are helped or hindered by my ability to buy goods for $1 and ship it back to them in a nice Christmas-y box? ... Hmmmm...

So back to Me to We... that 'expensive' clothing? Here's some info about it...

"Our product line is domestically produced, sweatshop-free and made using certified organic cotton and bamboo. In addition, 50 per cent of our profit goes to our charity partner, Free The Children, to support development projects in rural and impoverished areas across the globe. It’s responsible clothing for responsible living."

Not really that expensive, now that I think about it.

... when something is INEXPENSIVE for me... its likely EXPENSIVE for someone, somewhere. So comparing items on the shelf to each other... probably not really the right considerations to determine what is or is not expensive.

Happy Shopping.. and Merry Christmas.

hilarious conversations

I just read two very funny accounts of Kindergartners funny suppertime conversations. Very entertaining.
Yes, I am supposed to be writing a paper... Thats usually when I waste time blogging, when I'm supposed to be doing something else ... anyway, I thought I'd post about some hilarious conversation in our house yesterday...
Owen was supposed to be home around 9pm and didn't waltz in until about 9:35. He comes banging loudly into the house (think Kramer...) and says...

"Hi, I'm late. Tall tale or truth?"

dad says, (of course) "tall tale, please"

O begins... "Well there were these deranged monkeys - orange and black ones - in the trees by the church. Just as I was walking by, ON TIME, they lunged at me and Trevor. LUNGED at us! They had machetes!! We were so shocked! Well, not that shocked, because they're the same deranged monkeys we ran into last week... and we thought we'd defeated them then. But they've been lying in WAIT for us all this time, just bidding their time. I wonder what they've been eating?! Anyway, we tried and almost had them beat. But then, they took our shoes and cut our heads off with their machetes. (he is a teenaged boy) We'd have been almost on time, except that we had to run all the way to Saskatoon, (with no shoes)to the hospital, to have our heads sewn back on. To tell you the truth, its a miracle I'm only this late...I hope those monkeys have gone to torment some kids in Hague or something..."

Mom: truth, please?

O: I was in the middle of a good video game. I didn't want to lose.

Collaborative Journals and Advent

Lisa and I spoke at the Hepburn Ladies retreat. The planning committee told us that women were loving the yearly retreat, but often felt like busy-ness kept them from deeper connections on a regular basis (...everyone's life is so full) So, we asked ourselves what could be done to make the retreat to last longer than a weekend.. how connections made could continue, and women could keep 'journeying' together.

We came up with this idea of Collaborative Journals. In preparation, we did one together from the beginning of Sept. to the end of Oct. The way we did it was to pass it back and forth on Sundays... each having the journal one week on, one week off. Each week, each entry was different and unique. Some entries were prayers, some reflections, some poetic, some incorporated pictures and scrapbook-like pieces... sometimes we talked back and forth through the pages...

At the retreat, there was a sign-up for any women who wanted to do their own collaborative journals. All four we brought were spoken for, and even more women took the idea away and added their own creative twists. We've heard about lots of collaborative journaling taking place: spouses , mothers and daughters, small groups, even families.

This process reawakened my passion for journaling... I haven't stopped since early Sept. My previous pattern was to journal through anxious or difficult times, but not otherwise. I've started a journal with my sisters (I look forward to getting it no later than Dec. 8, Lisa!!) and was inspired to start another one with a good friend I really miss -- Cory, it will arrive in your mailbox shortly!


I was planning a post about advent conspiracy, but Jess did a really great job of that, so you can just read hers. Our church is engaging in AC this year, and I am looking forward to how that will be. The season quickly approaches, and I am so looking forward to it. I LOVE this time of year. I have so many great memories of family times around our advent wreath, the kids doing little puppet shows, praying for friends and family, preparing together for Jesus' birth. I hope to decorate the house soon. Although I've heard our favorite tree, Sir Uglyton, may have been pitched, so I might be very sad when the boxes come upstairs....

I found this funny little thing here ---- Some signs and symptoms of The Advent Virus:

* A tendency to think and act spontaneously rather than on fears based on past experiences. * An unmistakable ability to enjoy each moment. * A loss of interest in judging other people. * A loss of interest in interpreting the actions of others. * A loss of interest in conflict. *A loss of the ability to worry. (This is a very serious symptom.) * Frequent, overwhelming episodes of appreciation. * Contented feelings of connectedness with others and nature. * Frequent attacks of smiling. * An increasing tendency to let things happen rather than make them happen. *An increased susceptibility to the love extended by others as well as the uncontrollable urge to extend it.

recently...

with mom at thanksgiving.

yes, I really did make them pull over on the #1 Highway.

i liked this in the store. Didn't want to pay for it, but I liked it...

Auntie Karen and Syd.

My kids in the same room, not fighting. On film.

"It's called a Ta-Too"... you know, like the guy on Fantasy Island...?

At Pine Ridge Hollow with Pepere Legault. I mean Haily.

TJ looking a little scared. Well, Eryka can intimidate anyone...

Owen and Haily at Grandmas.

I'm 11 years old all over again..

I'm typing this post from Winnipeg. I came unexpectedly, decided in about 20 minutes last Thursday that I was hopping a ride with Sheryl and her mom the very next morning ... right now, Karen is downstairs doing the dishes.. she is sort of conversing with me, but I don't want to do any more dishes. All of a sudden I felt like... hey, I can sit up here and do something else and by the time I get down there, she'll be done... hmmm. So, here I type. (I don't regularly shirk chores like that - I'm far too task oriented for that... but I also don't usually take off to another province with no forethought...)
So, I'll tell a bit about my weekend... I'm feeling quite restored, and I know I needed to be with my sisters. They know every story about me, every weakness, every background detail that leads to how I respond to any current reality. I needed strength that comes from them, and I'm feeling able to get on with things once I get back to real life.
Friday was a very fun day of driving, I ended up with Rick and Sylvia after a funny story involving pulling over unexpectedly on the #1 highway. Driving between Brandon and Elie was not very fun, but the ironic thing is most people have experience with bad conditions on that stretch. Saturday we went for Brunch at Lisa's (eggs benny, her specialty) with fresh raspberries on the side, I was spoiled.
Then we spent the day at Sargent Park watching Brads jr. boys team from Calvin Christian play in a volleyball tourney. I had time to take Lorries truck to Hulls for a quick stop - I don't think there is anywhere like that in S'toon. Karens in the evening, visiting and laughing....
Today Carol and I went to Mountain Bean, the new coffee shop in N. Winnipeg that I hadn't been to yet. (Sisters arent only biological...:) (Except the one that is downstairs saying "What are you DOING??!" most definitely IS a blood relative!!)
Tomorrow I'm going to take Mom out for coffee, and hang out with Cory and my niece Ally after school. And maybe I'll check out one of my favorite 2nd hand stores in Charleswood.... Oh! I hear the water draining... must be time to go downstairs for a game of scrabble...

surveying the cross

Mostly, surveying the cross results in feelings of overwhelming grief and overwhelming thankfulness... grief that it was necessary, thankfulness that there was a plan and Jesus was willing. Thankfulness too for what is available because of the cross.

Today though, I was standing beside my daughter in church, and i was the usual weepy mess during worship songs... (why is that, by the way? It is so rare that I am not moved by the words. It happens when I'm at home too, when I'm driving, or anytime I concentrate on the message... it drives my husband crazy. And why do I keep wearing mascara to church?!)

My daughter is singing. beautifully. She does that. I'm not just biased, she has an angelic voice. And I was gripped by the fact that i am so passionate, way down to the bottom of my toes and even deeper, about my kids knowing God. I mean KNOWING Him... for real. Not in a meeting anyone else's expectations kind of way. Not in a 'its what everyone around me does' kind of way. Not even in a 'its morally right' kind of way...

Nope, what I'm passionate about is that they end up walking through life side by side with Jesus, having no doubt that they're silly sheep who desperately need the guidance, voice, and wisdom of the Shepherd. Recognizing that there is something within them that can only be addressed by the cross of Christ. ... Laying down the wish to manage it themselves. I'm passionate that they become people of love and kindness, grace and forgiveness, purpose and passion, - and also that they accept those things from others and from God when they need it. I guess I'm passionate that they become Kingdom people; with a real and earthy love for God that doesn't need to be organized or structured, but is just deep and just true.

So today, I surveyed the wondrous cross... and realized that one of the most important things to me, of all things in the big wide world, is that these young ones who have been miraculously entrusted into my family, that they too would be awestruck by the wonderful cross.

"The Wonderful Cross"

When I survey the wondrous cross

On which the Prince of Glory died

My richest gain I count but loss

And pour contempt on all my pride

See from his head, his hands, his feet

Sorrow and love flow mingled down

Did ever such love and sorrow meet

Or thorns compose so rich a crown

O the wonderful cross,

O the wonderful cross

Bids me come and die and find that I may truly live

O the wonderful cross,

O the wonderful cross

All who gather here by grace draw near and blessYour name

Were the whole realm of nature mine

That were an offering far too small

Love so amazing, so divine

Demands my soul, my life, my all

--Chris Tomlin

[ www.azlyrics.com ]

Full

You know how you feel after a turkey dinner? Full, but not room for another bite. Well, maybe a little pumpkin pie...


That is how I'm feeling right now, but not in the physical I've eaten lots kind of way, but in the spiritual I've received lots kind of way.


I was just a collaborator on a ladies retreat speaking assingment. The preparation, the delivery, the experience, the women I was with, the leading of the spirit... FILLING. better than pumpkin pie, even with whipped cream.


My son just turned 13. The last two nights around the supper table, talking, eating his fave meals, perusing the journal we made him, seeing him begin to grasp 'growing up'.... FILLING. better than mashed potatoes with corn all smushed over the top.


Bethany College is awesome. Christ focused post secondary education, young people who are committed to figuring out what they're called to; what service is; how they can make a difference, what 'church' means, how they can live out their love for Jesus in transformational ways... being able to be involved in that in the smallest of ways... huge privilege..... FILLING. better than squishy, soft, white buns with real butter.


HOME - not the dwelling you live in, but the marriage and family and relationships and laughter and community and even conflict that are safe, accepting, truthful, comfy, right, ... FILLING. better than mom's peas with the creamy sauce.

Tonight there was a church business meeting, where many from our congregation gathered to talk honestly about things important to this group of believers. There was such an earthy love for God and for all people expressed, some courageous moments, and some statements of commitment about caring for our community and not getting hung up things that distract us from our purpose as the body of Christ.... FILLING. better than stuffing with cranberries in it.


Guidance from God. Deep 'gut' feelings...There are times when you wonder, and times when you're sure. It is FILLING to be sure and to trust.

For the Lord your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior.

He will take delight in you with gladness.

With his love, he will calm all your fears.

He will rejoice over you with joyful songs.

just like Bette.. without the eyes :)

so, we've been doing these celebrity personality quizzes. I'm a Bette Davis. Can you see the resemblance? I just wore that gown to work last week, maybe you missed it. Caused quite a stir in the caf at lunch time.

See the quizzes here.

They're surprisingly accurate and don't take long. And they're fun. For those of you who are coming to the Hepburn retreat this weekend; we will be exploring some personality fun on Friday night...

ok, here are my results...

Bettes are direct, self-reliant, self-confident, and protective.

How to Get Along with Me
* Stand up for yourself... and me.
* Be confident, strong, and direct.
* Don't gossip about me or betray my trust.
* Be vulnerable and share your feelings. See and acknowledge my tender, vulnerable side.
* Give me space to be alone.
* Acknowledge the contributions I make, but don't flatter me.
* I often speak in an assertive way. Don't automatically assume it's a personal attack.
* When I scream, curse, and stomp around, try to remember that's just the way I am.

(hmmm... sounds right so far...)

What's Hard About Being a Bette
* overwhelming people with my bluntness; scaring them away when I don't intend to
* being restless and impatient with others' incompetence
* putting too much pressure on myself
* getting high blood pressure when people don't obey the rules or when things don't go right

Bettes as Children Often
* are independent; have an inner strength and a fighting spirit
* seize control so they won't be controlled
* figure out others' weaknesses
* take charge in the family because they perceive themselves as the strongest, or grow up in difficult or abusive surroundings

Bettes as Parents
* are often loyal, caring, involved, and devoted
* are sometimes overprotective
* can be demanding, controlling, and rigid

Demanding? Independent? Impatient? Stomp?

..... really.

you should do one too. I've seen two Hepburnites compared to Hepburns... Audrey and Katherine.

Broken

I felt prompted this morning to revisit a familiar place in Scripture.. John 15. And I came away with new insight ... our abiding is not only a commitment to remain with, abide in, connect ourselves intentionally to Jesus... its also about COMPLETION. As in, my brokenness is healed/addressed and I am made more 'complete' as I dwell with (abide in) Jesus.

... my profound thought for today.

Shalom.

Who do you think I am?

An article has captured my imagination. It's from the Walrus magazine. An artist has met with a few random Canadians, asking them to use the identification tools (similar to those used by police investigators) to create composite pictures of themselves.

"The result is a study in the complexity and conflictedness of identity, of the subtle disjunctions between how we look from the outside and how we think of ourselves from the inside."

...yeah... what he said.

check it out here (and don't miss out on the bonus 'online only' images.. they're the most interesting ones!) Scroll down to get the article text after the first image, then scroll through the images... It's worth the time, pretty fascinating!

I've been considering the importance of self awareness, and self acceptance lately. Studying this group of photos reveals how the gap between how we see ourselves and how we really appear. (or how others see us) It's pretty amazing to see the "I wish I was...." come through the composites that show how individuals see themselves...

I think my composite would look like this: (at least lately, this is how I see myself...)

Some days, or at least for a few moments some days, I'd think I must look like this:

But the me I'm longing to be most of the time looks sort of like this: I couldn't leave it at funny, had to inject some sap... and I really do miss the days when my kids were littler!!!!

This & that & even more...

hmmm, whats new with us... some people were asking for a bit of an update...

Brendan and I are going to a Steve Bell concert next weekend in S'toon.. on a DATE. A great reminder of Winnipeg and a great way to spend an evening together. Can't wait! Sometimes it feels like we've been married every minute of the 15 years we'll soon be celebrating.... other times, I have no idea where the time has gone! As I was ordering the tickets, we almost called up another couple and asked them to join us, and then pretty much simultaneously we both said.. hey.. wait a second... how about just the two of us go? Now.. who wants to feed our kids next Sunday night?!

Owen and Syd are enjoying school this year - they were ready for summer to be over. Volleyball games start this week, we're looking forward to that. O says he has mastered overhand serves in practices so far. He is actually a very changed guy from the one who moved from Winnipeg. He is a full head taller than me and its downright weird. He's still playing guitar, and his band's name (I think?!) is sense of security. (changed from soul poured out..) They haven't played in church or anywhere yet this year, we'll see... I hope to hear them soon. Syd is going to start guitar along with her voice lessons in Oct. She'd probably prefer piano, but we have three guitars and zero pianos so that sort of made the decision! She continues to develop and be a preteen girl. What can I say.. there is plenty of screaming and screeching in our house - both the good kind (Joe Jonas is soooo cute!) and the not so good kind (stay out of my room! and I LIKE that moldy milk on the dresser!)

Some recently read books to recommend:
The Source (Michener): I finally finished this book that I started in July. I loved it!! It was a challenging read, but a worthwhile one. The history of Israel was fictionalized, but there was enough accurate history to make it interesting and informative.

Pillars of the Earth (Follett): Another great read about history, especially church history. My understanding was expanded, and I really grew in my understanding contextual faith. Our practices are related to the practices of those around us, no matter how unique we think we might be... and change to any 'cultural' practice, be it around expressing faith or any number of things.. is slow in the coming. Fascinating bit of info is that Ken Follett calls himself a very unspiritual person.. yet he wrote something that sure speaks powerfully about spirituality and the body of Christ. Reader warning: there are some pretty graphic scenes that almost made me stop reading. I'm glad I didn't.

the Shack (Young); A book that was highly recommended by several people. Would I call it life changing? I'm still sitting on the fence. What I liked best about this book was that it was somehow affirming to me personally. I felt after reading it like the way I relate to God was perhaps not as strange and girly and silly as I've always thought. I grabbed The Barbarian Way a couple of weeks ago, I've heard that its supposed to be for late-comers to faith like me, you know, the ones who just sort of invent their own brand of expression because they don't know all the rules? I won't be reading it for a while though... I would most definitely encourage others to read the Shack. I think it stretches us in lots of good ways.

What else? I'm taking a Mark course, taught by Tim Geddert, all next week. I'm really ready for a change of pace, and I don't think its such a stretch for me to actually take part in a Bethany class. It's not a good time.. would there have ever been a good time?! I'm taking it for Seminary credit, so my assignments are slightly different that our students. I'm pretty pumped about it. The commentary we're using was actually written by the instructor, so I think he knows his stuff. I hear that he's one of the best and most interesting teachers around.

We're looking forward to being in Winnipeg for Thanksgiving. Can't wait to see family and friends.. especially TJ, Eryka and Haily! (they're the ones who really change between visits!) Two of my sisters have moved to new homes, so we'll be checking those out for the first time, and I look very forward to sunday at KPAC, except, what will it be without Liza? I'm a bit disappointed about that! I think we're putting together a girls night out - or maybe a breakfast on the Saturday (oct 11?) at Pineridge Hollow? If any winnipeggers are reading and want to come and have a preference, let me know... we're flying there and driving back, so it'll be really nice to have a bit less road time this trip. The bad news is we won't be there for Christmas. Our budget said a simple Hepburn Christmas is just the right thing...

a couple of final newsy things: We are now part of a supper club (this is for you, Kim :) and it is so, so, so awesome. I heartily recommend other families consider one if the supper rush is a frustrating experience. How it works is this: You get together with a couple of other families, and each family takes a turn cooking for all the families. (So, ours is three families - I make supper once for everyone, and then, two glorious nights each week, supper shows up at my door.) So far, it has meant I just work later, but at some point in the near future, there will be an hour of peace and calm in my house between work and eating. How awesome is that? And, we have so far sampled all the family favorites from each participant... what a blessing to somehow feel part of other families' traditions!
my next idea is a PROJECT club. I'm pretty sure Lisa is either interested or I've pushed her hard enough; but either way, we're looking for a couple of others.. so, each month, you rotate houses and devote a couple of hours to a project.. redecorating a living room, organizing a closet, cleaning out a pantry.. whatever! Interested?

Theres the update, from all of us. Take care, and have a wonderful week!

friendships

Wounds from a friend are better than kisses from an enemy. It says that in Proverbs. I want to express that in life. I want to trust the Lord to 'wound' me in order to bring about growth and transformation inside me - and for the most part, He'll be needing others to co-operate with Him. Are you up for that? Are you committed to playing this role with all your friends?

There are so many encouragements about friendship and supporting each other in Scripture.
How do we do that.. how do we have the courage to speak honestly to each other... in love? Do you experience that in friendships? Do you feel truly held up, loved for who you are as well as who you aren't?

I'm preparing for an upcoming retreat where I'll be sharing the speaking duties with an incredible new friend and woman of God.. we want to talk about relationships, and the theme of the weekend is friendships.

God encouraged me through friends this week, and I received love and concern, prayers and encouragements through the hands and words of God's people. I was reminded how vital it is that we submit to each other and hear what needs to be heard. Its vital that we have the courage to say what needs to be said, too. I received other kinds of gifts through friends, too.

One friend told me that I had slighted my husband in a conversation where she was present. She was sort of sheepish as she said it, but concluded with 'I love you and I know you want to grow, and I know you can handle this.' I realized immediately that she was right, I had intervened unnecessarily in a situation I should have let alone. I went from our visit straight to Bren to ask for forgiveness. Later in the week, another friend interrupted me mid-sentence as I described something I was rather passionate and intense about, and asked if I meant to be coming across as angry and defensive... because if that wasn't my intent, then I needed to change my tone. Hmm. Two brave 'confrontations' from people who know how much I want to be like Jesus and who love me enough to push me toward that impossible goal I'll be working at for my whole life.

How about you? I'm really interested in how we love, encourage, push, and challenge each other. Has a friend wounded you in necessary ways? Have you received meaningless kisses from people who don't really care about your transformation as a disciple? Has a challenging truth been lovingly shared with you? How commom is this? What does the content of our friendships say? I'm interested in knowing...

What's New?

A tag from Jess: State five things that are new in your life - they could be anything from a profound personal realization to a new favorite restaurant. Here goes...

1. New BED - Bren and I went bed shopping for the first time ever during the summer. We purchased an overpriced and overstuffed mattress that makes bedtime really great. Gettinguptime is not so easy. We also got high thread count sheets for the first time. I highly recommend both!


2. New understanding of devotion(s) - A very wise woman helped me to crystallize my own thoughts about 'personal devotions' - she said that putting an 's' on the end of the word 'devotion' takes something that is beautiful and worthy and makes it ugly. Well said! It is better to live a life of devotion, that is expressed through all manner of experiences, than it is to check a task off our daily to do list. I get to work with some of the amazingest people at Bethany. They're a pretty smart and gifted bunch.


3. New deepening friendships - Now that we're not so new in our community, relationships are getting a bit deeper and true friendships are developing. I am blessed, but also have frequent pangs of grief as I miss old friends, (Lorrie, Lisa, Karen, Cory, Carol, Heidi, Zofia, Jilly, and many others...) and old haunts, (my kitchen on Seymour, Grace Cafe, the Robins on Lag and Grassie, the Robins on Mountain at Main), and in general, the old life we had that was pretty awesome.

1. New understanding of ABIDING - "I can do all things through Him who strengthens me." - Philippians 4:13. Or: "I can do nothing, and any efforts are in vain, without giving everything to Jesus and receiving from Him what is needed for every circumstance, relationship, need, and conversation"- (Biblegateway couldn't help me find the verse for that one :)


2. New love for my husband - Through two opportunities that were somewhat gut wrenching, I've seen Bren make decisions and commitments that have re-opened my eyes to what a great person he is. I really like him a lot, and I really like being married to him forever and ever. I wish once again that we could get to exhilarating, really good and right places without mucking along beforehand. Nope, it just don't work that way!


3. New purse - I got a LUG bag in August after looking for a new purse all summer, throughout Manitoba and Saskatchewan. I'm really not materialistic , but I L O V E this bag. It was worth the wait and every penny.

I'm tagging: Rob & Carol, LT, Chris & Bec, Jeff, and one of the two bloggers-in-hiding I know that have pages designed but haven't yet started posting... you know who you are!

** about devotions: I realized after i wrote this that it sounded kind of harsh.. not meant to be so. I just hear more guilt and UN-life giving sentiment associated with the commonly used term 'devotions'. I know that there's more than that out there....

*** another new thing: Supper Club!!! I can't believe I forgot this in the original post!! Once per week, we make supper for ourselves and two other families.. we deliver two suppers and eat the third. And then , twice per week, the other families do the same, so we end up with supper being delivered to our door -Hot and Ready to EAT Twice every week! I am pumped about this idea.

what's in a name?

I've changed my name.... sort of. A lot of people have asked me about it, so I figured I'd blog about it here and then it would answer at least some of them....

I've taken my maiden name again and hyphenated it with my married name. It's kind of a reminder of who I am. That probably sounds weird, but its probably okay to be weird.

See, we've been in Hepburn now for a year, and it looks like we're staying a while. We feel at peace and continue to feel like this is the right place for us.


But here's the thing; In my 'old life', I had opportunities to remember my family's cultural background (french canadian.. or maybe Franco Manitobain?!) ... meetings at the school, kids activities, committees I was on, fairs/festivals we could attend...it never dawned on me to think of my family heritage, probably because I never had occasion to forget it.


Here in Hepburn, there is no evidence whatsoever that there are two official languages in this country. Or maybe there are - high German and low German. Core French isn't even offered in the High School as an option. And unless I'm annoyed with my kids in front of someone, I have no occasion to speak French.. the kids sure don't want to hear it around the house! I could so easily lose sight of what used to be an important part of my life, and I don't want that to happen.
The other thing is that there is a prevailing culture within the community that I now live in.. I want to honor that one without forgetting my own.. So, my new-old last name will remind me where I came from. Because I don't want to forget.


FYI: I wanted to put a little picture on this post, so I went to a clip art site and searched "French". nothing good to post, but all the clips were of either Food or People... my two favorite things. Now I know I wasn't switched at birth. I wonder what would happen if I typed Mennonite....?

Sustainer

God is our sustainer.  We know this.  We sing about it, we listen to sermons about it, if we are preachers or teachers we tell stories about it.  Its part of our christian speak, its one of the things we believe,  yet often skate right over grasping deeply.  Our cultural practices aren't helpful either, we don't leave a lot of room for being 'sustained'.  We ensure all of our needs are met, our plans are carefully exectuted, t's are crossed and i's are dotted.

In spite of us,  God intrudes into our independent and insulated lives.  He speaks, He moves, He guides, He teaches.  Maybe we miss it more than we observe it.

This is Leadership Week at Bethany.  All of the student leaders (RA's, interns, and student council) are on campus for a while before everyone else comes this weekend.  It's been great having these amazing young people around.  The campus is alive.  there is learning in all sorts of spaces, mostly not classrooms!  Students are praying and talking in quiet little groups, they're singing worship songs accompanied by a lone guitar, they're seeking out mentors from staff and faculty, they're preparing spiritually for the year ahead.  Finally, we remember why we're here, and all petty worries about the papers on our desk and the mountain of work is put into perspective.

Into this context God has made it clearer than ever to me that He is our sustainer.  In our lives, in our families, at Bethany College, he sustains and provides for it all.  He holds it all together, and that is for some reason so much more than a sunday school lesson today. 

It is a privilege to be part of the Leadership team at Bethany College.   Today, we were invited to join the end of a footwashing service, where young leaders dedicated themselves to the task of serving the students who have not yet arrived on campus.  As I walked into the chapel at the end of the service, my eyes were immediately teary, there was something heavy and beautiful and ALIVE in that room.  There was a pulsing, vibrant sense of love and dedication, of surrender and faith that could only be missed by the hardest of hearts.  I was humbled by the privilege of praying into the lives and ministry of future world changers who long to be trained and prepared for a life of service.  I was deeply and poignantly reminded why I'm at Bethany, why any of us is at Bethany, and what all of us are working toward.. and how much bigger than Bethany that purpose is.

a repeated message throughtout the week and the day: And God Sustains It All.

I've found my theme word for the year.

Local Events

We're planning to check out a couple of events locally this weekend:

World Vision is presenting One Life; a presentation that will promote understanding and awareness about AIDS as a global concern.

http://http//www.worldvision.ca/ContentArchives/content-stories/Pages/OneLifeExperienceKicksOffCross-CanadaTour.aspx

There is something that I heard about called the We Are Many festival. Its a multi generational fair, with childrens performers, workshops, an arts emphasis, and lots of other informative stuff that helps us understand and bring home sustainability concerns.

http://www.wearemanyfestival.com/

reflections, raspberries, and God speaks...

I had a great opportunity to hang out with a very young man over the weekend. (I was babysitting a 3 year old) His visit was so timely, and was occasion to 'tie up' some things that have been going around and around in my head for quite some time. Some explanation...

Before we moved to Hepburn, our kids were just starting to move towards greater independence. Owen had started biking to friends houses who lived a few blocks away, Sydney was growing in her interest and ability to make some of her own plans and decisions. Moving from the inner city to a small village opened the door to way more exploration and independence on both their parts. We just had the first year where there were no sitters needed for inservices from school, and they've spent a summer with many unsupervised days. How did we get here so fast? And there was so much I still wanted to do and teach them while they were really little, I didn't get the chance....
Clearly, I haven't exactly been embracing this 'increased independence' concept, so the whole year has felt like being asked to let go of something I'm not nearly ready to admit exists, never mind let go of. My young visitor provided the context for me to get over it!!.... As I watched my kids interact with him a bit, Owen gave him a big hug, and the familiarity he had with this little guy was heartwarming. Sydney played and read with him, and he followed her around asking lots of questions, which she patiently answered, giggling at the language of a 3 year old. I suddenly realized my kids are in a stage where they need less 'care' (in some ways), and where they're learning and preparing more and more to care for others. (I know this will be a long stage!) And .... maybe its too early to say, but I feel okay with it - finally!

Another reflection:
I was picking raspberries over the weekend, and I noticed that only some of the bushes produce fruit. I remember learning that raspberry plants produce fruit only every 2nd year. I was astonished, now that its late in the season, to notice that the 'fruit bearing' bushes are looking pretty grim by now. They're exhausted, tired, worn out. Not only is the fruit gone, but the leaves are dried up and the branches are spindly. They look as if they've become totally spent in the process of bearing fruit. ... The bushes that didn't produce any berries this year, however, look lush and healthy. They're downright robust. Not a raspberry in sight, but beautiful, fruitless green leaves and healthy branches galore! Hmmm.

And a final thought:
Monday, I took the day off. I wanted to hang out with the kids before school starts. I also promised myself that I'd have healthier work habits this year. I ended up having one of those really yucky upsets with my son. (Not the day I envisioned!) ... The kind where I needed to ask his forgiveness, but I had really been pushed beyond any reasonable boundary testing to a ridiculously unacceptable place. In our house we're not supposed to say "I'm sorry, but (insert reason why I don't truly have to take responsibility for my actions here). " We're supposed to simply say "I'm sorry. Will you forgive me?" However, I found myself saying "I'm sorry, but... " I guess parents have that prerogative?!?! Anyway, a few miserable hours went by, while a very sorry boy spent some time actually reflecting ... and then demonstrated genuine repentance. It had a fragrance (just a whiff, but it was unmistakable!) of maturity. The kind I don't think I've seen before. The kind that is necessary for real understanding. Wow. I really wish it was easier to get to those places. I wish there was a map that gave us really clear directions, avoided all the bumpy, rotten, stinky spots and arrived at the sweetest, perfectest destination, without any scratches, bruises, upsets, or scars. I haven't found that map yet. Until then, I'll take the messy stuff that leads to the Wow! moments. Just maybe not everyday.... !

So three little reflections that pretty much summarize my times and talks with God over the last few days. Sometimes, this is how He speaks. Through little visits, tiny interactions, young people, messy situations, creation, broken places, gentle guidance ... all coming together to say: "I'm here.. I'm with you... "

Inspired

I've been at the Leadership Summit, an annual gathering of awesome leaders from various sectors who come together to teach and inspire people all over the world (via Satellite Feed).  Right now, its almost midnight and I can't sleep because I'm compelled to do something with all the phrases, thoughts, ideas, and axioms (thats for you, Lisa!) jumping around and bumping into each other inside my head.  

Here are some of the inspiring messages and words I need to "deposit" for now:

• Redemptive.  Redemption.  Redeemed
• When something is "funky", engage.  Ignoring stuff thats easier to NOT deal with does not make it go away.

• People move very slowly between believing in Jesus and being completely Jesus centred.  Lots of people park at belief for their whole lives.  They're missing out.
• Leaders call fouls; its part of the territory.  They even call them on themselves.
• We've spiritualized mediocrity.
• Take responsibility.  
  
• confess.  
• I will refuse God nothing.  I will respond to Him without delay.
• Unapologetic.
• holy discontent
• heal wounds. reconcile people to eachother.
• inexperience can be an asset.
• failure isn't an option.  It's a necessity.
• the culture is not to blame.
• Bring it on.
• They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.
• Carte blanche pour mon Seigneur.  Chaque jour.  Tout le temps.  Vraiment.
• we pursue being totally safe.  and we end up being totally stuck.
• in a world of pain and suffering, despair.. the church really is the plan for healing, redemption, and hope.  Like, for really real.  Not just words or concepts, we're it.
• ijm.ca
• your wallet and your schedule follow your heart.
• spiritual growth is scandalously simple.
• extravagant love.  extravagant beauty.  extravagant joy.
• evaluate by outcome.
• Calling is holy.  
• love and abide.  love and abide.  love and abide.
• Dignity and love for all.

Ahh..thats it.  I will not think about the great books I noted, or that Brendan bought.  I will not make mental outlines of the Bethany implementation list.  I will not summarize the insights gleaned by categories inside my head.  Now, I will sleep... but be advised ... the next couple posts will likely be more of the same.. though, hopefully more coherent...

summer-y stuff

A post about our summer so far...

.. the kids checking out the changes to their rooms, after mom and dad had spent some kid-free time sprucing them up...



Bren and I after an awesome bike ride immediately following a rain storm... we were wet and muddy. ...see?!?
spraying the dogs from the shed roof - and making them jump, bark, and yelp as if they were on fire.

other stuff we've been up to - this is a mixup of the whole family's activities:

• lots of good bike rides. There's the small square (Hildebrand-Klein) and the big square (Andres-Peters-Fehr-Van Kuik)
• lots of bbq suppers, followed by smores. Great when its just us, great when there are extra friends!
• getting things done in the house and yard - enjoying the new spaces and feeling of being settled
• reading: Sydney has discovered the Heartland series for young girls, Kelly is reading the Source (started in early July and still not done!), and Bren is reading two books: one about WW2, and one called BOOM, about the 60's decade.
• working; Shepherd's Villa is hoping to implement a new day program for older residents, and I'm working on year end/audit. Owen's job is to mow the large lawn.. payment will be a new amp in the fall...
• getting ready for a couple of new Bethany staff coming to Hepburn, realizing that we've been here for a year already!
• trying to motivate the kids to not spend too much time on the couch... or too much money on the new slushies at the Co-op
• spending lots of time at the Jeschke's - that's only one member of the family :) - and he's often in their hot tub
• applying for seminary
• starting to learn how to play killer bunnies (ah.. um.. you just kill eachother's bunnies. that's it.. what's to learn?!?)
• getting to know our friends and neighbors better
• thinking about ways to deepen the experience or practice of living in community. Wondering if it's necessary. Praying.

Owe nothing to anyone—except for your obligation to love one another. If you love your neighbor, you will
fulfill the requirements of God’s law. For the commandments say, “You must not commit adultery. You must not murder. You must not steal. You must not covet.” These—and other such commandments—are summed up in this one commandment: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Love does no wrong to others, so love fulfills the requirements of God’s law. Romans 13

ahhhh... Winnipeg

Ben and Ang had a funny list about being from Winnipeg on their blog. I had to repost it here to make any former Winnipeggers laugh. I don't know if this is funny if you still live in Winnipeg.. or if you never lived in Winnipeg.. but its certainly hilarious to me!

Winnipeg has its own version of traffic rules. Never forget that downtown Winnipeg is composed in large part of one-way streets. The only way to get out of the center of town is to turn around and start over when you reach the river. All directions start with, 'Go down Portage.'

The 8:00 a.m. Rush hour is from 6:30 to 9:30a.m. The 5:00 PM rush hour is from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. Friday's rush hour starts on Thursday morning.

If you actually stop at a yellow light, there's no chance you're from Winnipeg. Yellow lights are for sissies.

Lagimodiere Blvd. Can only be pronounced by a native Winnipegger, so do not attempt the phonetic pronunciation. People will simply tilt their heads to the right and stare at you. (And let's not forget Noter Dayme! And of course, Portidge.)

Bugs and Perogies are a way of life. Deal with it.

Construction on the Winnipeg streets in summer is a way of life and a permanent form of entertainment. (Especially those dopey-looking city workers holdingup signs in traffic that say in big orange letters 'SLOW'. )

Many bizarre sights can be explained simply by realizing, 'Oh, we're in Transcona!'

Construction crews aren't doing their job properly unless they close down all lanes except one during rush hour.

If someone actually has his turn signal on, it was probably left on at the factory where the car was made.

Buying a Winnipeg street map is a waste of money since the termination or continuation of any street is entirely at the discretion of the Works Department of the City: e.g.: Salter, Isabel, Balmoral, Colony, Memorial, Osborne, Dunkirk. You've gone two miles down the same road and the name changes seven times.

Exit and entry ramps on the Perimeter Hwy. are just the recommended way of entering and exiting, feel free to exit at any grassy point you wish.

Going South to you means Grand Forks.

Your 1 July picnic was moved indoors due to frost.

You have more miles on your snow blower than your car.

You find 0 degrees 'a little chilly.' But it is still t-shirt weather.

Domestic Bliss

Being on holidays meant that I could spend some good times in the kitchen, something that I enjoy when unhurried, not so much when I'm rushed - then it becomes a chore. I cooked a couple of meals for good friends, kept lots of healthy snacks around (it also helped that it was only Bren and I, food hung around for a lot longer than when the kids are constantly scavenging for snacks!) Thought I'd post a couple of favorite summer recipes today.

Bean Salad
(this is a good one!! Really - bean salad was always a last option for me ... until I ate this one!)

1 lb green beans, fresh (I used frozen this time, it was okay, but fresh is better)
1 can chick peas or mixed beans (large can)
1/3 c red onion, chopped fine
2 T fresh dill (dried is okay)

Dressing: 2 T red wine vinegar, 2 T olive oil, 1 T sugar, 1 T dijon mustard, salt and pepper to taste.

Cook green beans 3 or so minutes, drain and chill under cold water. Add other beans, mix with dressing and let sit for a while before serving.

Hummus
1 can chick peas, drained and rinsed
1/4 c sour cream
2 T Tahini (I don't use this - keep meaning to buy it, though!)
2 T lemon juice
1 t lemon zest
2 t garlic, minced
1/2 t sesame oil
1/2 t sugar
1/4 t cumin
1/4 t coriander

Blend in food processor. Serve with raw veggies, crackers, pita crisps, whatever you have on hand.

Incidentally, both of these recipes originate from my good friend Cory.... who I miss often and didn't get to see when we were in Winnipeg. She is an amazing hostess, homemaker, mom, and friend.. I always enjoyed hanging out with her! Many of my favorite recipes came from casual meals at Cory's place.

Our other domestic project has been Sydney's room, which had a domino effect throughout the house and resulted in other projects everywhere. Here is a glimpse:



Yes, the room is very, very pink. Syd chose the colors. She has a very small room for her bed, and then the above photos are in the 'sitting room'. The two rooms are connected. by a doorway, though. She's been home for three days, so it no longer looks like this!

Unfortunately, our poor yard is still unattended. We'll get there yet!

What I'm not reading, and "stuff"

I haven't been doing any 'spiritual' reading lately. Not a devotional book, not the Bible, nada. I'm sort of disappointed with myself, because I usually do spend time reading those... especially on vacation. Normally, I come away from vacations filled up with some insight or new learning, something that energizes me for weeks afterward. Not this time. Hmmm. I don't like it. I feel sad about it.

While I've not been reading, (at least very recently), I've been at home sorting and decluttering and re-organizing our house. Sydney is now in the basement, and the office is in the process of coming upstairs in the recently vacated spare room. I'm amazed at the stuff we have. Actually I'm amazed at the s**t we have.

Granted, the move here was quick and we didn't really sort anything, we just threw things into boxes and threw the boxes onto a U-Haul .. I started work after living here for two days, and so we'd still not really unpacked a lot of stuff. (Who knew a year was so short?!) But still, I'm trying to be self-evaluative here, and I keep asking myself: "Kelly, why did you ever bring this into the house? What makes you think you need this? Why are you looking to make space for this?"

The answer is inevitably something that starts with 'what if....' or 'maybe....' As in 'maybe at thanksgiving, I'll fill this wicker cornucopia thing with fallen leaves and autumn florals' or 'what if I get really crafty someday and then I'll need these needles/pieces of fabric/ribbons/10 year old pine cones' .... WHO do I think I'm fooling? I've carted around tons of CRAP for years!! And, yes, I sometimes use it, but mostly, it just moves from house to house - but not only that, it GROWS from one house to the next. I really want to stop this behaviour. I think I might need an intervention.

The one thing I defend (at least for now) is BOOKS. I love books. And I've read at least half of the books I own. Maybe even more. Someday I'll read them all. Really, I will.

Home Sweet Home

Aaahhh.
Tonight Bren and I will sleep in our own bed. In our own house. We've had a marvelous time away, but it is really good to be home!
Here is a brief glimpse of the past two weeks: (photos will come... either here or on fb!)

We started out by taking three days to get to the Whiteshell, so we stayed in Yorkton then in Neepawa before arriving in Winnipeg for a lunch at Brendan's mom and dads, then on to the Whiteshell. We discovered that as a family we're ready to move on from hotels with pools/waterslides. The Bed and Breakfast route is awesome. In Neepawa, we stayed at Vivian's house on Vivian Street. She was a great host!

Our week at the lake was awesome. We had tons of fun, relaxed a lot, and ate like royalty. This week of vacationing together is truly a gift. It's challenging to pull off for many reasons, but each year is a poignant reminder of why its so important. Highlights were the Pine Point hike and the three littlest family members. Eryka is outrageous (one night she was caught in her sister's bassinet, sucking on a soother after having sprayed mosquito spray in her mouth. When Lisa checked if she was asleep, she whispered that her mouth was too spicy to be sleeping. She is full of something....!!) TJ is such a sweetie, it was awesome to just watch him interacting with everyone, his big eyes taking it all in. Haily is too cuddly and cute. I loved putting her to sleep and watching the big kids act all ga-ga with her. Pine point is awesome mostly because Paul seems to love taking us all out there.. he grew up sliding down those rapids and its great to see him passing on that same love to his nephews and nieces. There were tons of other highlights too, but I'm trying to be brief...!!!

We were in Winnipeg for two whirlwind days, then Bren and I took two days to get home. We came through the Duck Mountains and stayed at a B & B in Kamsack the first night. We visited many small towns, shopped a bit, went to several museums, and learned a lot about our province. It was good to be together and to go wherever the wind blew us. In Watson, we had a long talk with an older gentleman who owns a very unique little hardware store. People are so interesting!

Before the kids get home, we want to address some un-done things from when we first moved in, get Sydney's room ready for her return, and shuffle the spare room/office space. There is lots to do.. oh, and the yard needs a lot of attention too!

A quick note about holiday reading: I borrowed a book called The Source (James Michener) from the Bethany library before leaving... its a fictional account of the story of Israel, but the history is accurate.. I've been learning lots and have been captivated. It's not an easy, fluffy read, but its so worth it. Bren can't remember me taking so much time with a book, but there is a lot of info in each chapter! I recommend it highly!