As I write this, I should be packing for our first road trip out of the Lone Star State. Mounds of laundry surround me, rain is slamming against our windows, and Sebastian is happily curled up against my legs on the couch. We talk about our Life Roads quite a bit, and what our plans, hopes, dreams and desires are. We have a President-Elect who oftentimes speaks of the very same topics and had burned "Yes We Can" into our hearts and minds and given our country a new-found sense of hope in the midst of much crisis.
Scott's dear grandmother passed away on Christmas Eve and we are traveling back to Illinois to bid our farewells and celebrate her long, full life with our family and friends. This will be our first trip "home" since we left last summer and has been weighing heavily upon my mind the last few hours. It seems as if we all have a sense of what "home" means and for some of us it isn't where we grew up, but the place that feels safe and familiar and one that pulls at your heartstrings each time you have a fleeting thought about it. Obviously, Chicago will always be home for Scott and I. Texas is well, Texas. We have family here and have made some very good friends, but when we start talking about our future hopes and plans and dreams, our hearts and minds go straight back to the Windy City. I am chuckling to myself as I sit her with my cup of tea and ponder what to write exactly. Some of my blogs from the spring time exhibit my desperation to leave the hustle and bustle and yuppie-ness that was, indeed, our "home". Looking back, it was making us irritable and crazy on some levels. The best thing we could have done at that point was what we actually did do~we left. For this city girl, 1000 miles, seven months, countless phone conversations with my sister -in-law and my best friend have opened my eyes to the fact that home is definitely NOT where you make it (what a dumb saying), but home is where your heart belongs and where you feel safe and at peace. You can survive living anywhere, but when you're at peace with your surroundings, you are finally at home.
If anything has been learned in this life of mine, its that above all else, peace and faith are very important. Temporary homes serve their purpose in life and are sometimes necessary to teach us perseverance, patience and temperance, but ultimately we must find our way back home on our Life Road.
Please keep Scott's father and family in your prayers through this sad time. Wishing everyone a blessed and safe New Year that will bring peace and happiness wherever you may be....in your homes.
Until again,
~Red
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Monday, November 3, 2008
Life Road, Part II
As I have said in the past to you blog-readers, I am not always sure who is reading my stuff. For those of you who know me well, the Life Road blog will be further insight into my life, my choices, my family dynamic. This is a very difficult few days for me as I approach the anniversary of my mother's passing. No matter how many days, weeks and years go by, November 9 is just plain difficult. In the midst of sadness, though, I wanted to be able to share insight on death, loss, life, and choices because in the last few weeks I have known three people who suddenly passed away~its just a fact of life that we all will endure at one point or another, some more frequently than others too. So, just make your Life Road a priority and be aware of your decisions and actions. One never knows when our jobs here are done and we will be called to a greater purpose, so live and love and forgive. Daily.
Enough rambling from me for today. Funnier blogs are on the horizon, as Texas has given me a load of hilarious material!
Until again,
Red
Enough rambling from me for today. Funnier blogs are on the horizon, as Texas has given me a load of hilarious material!
Until again,
Red
Life Road
It seems so unreal to me at certain points in my life how quickly time passes. It just tick, tick, ticks right on without much notice until one day....whew....we have an entire list of things yet to do, another paper pile to purge, phone calls still to return, conversations that should have been had that we haven't "had time for", places to be, friends and family to see~our days don't seem to have enough hours, our weeks don't have enough days, our year is short on weeks. Time marches on...another year has passed, the holidays are fast approaching, and its almost time to resolve ourselves to a brand new year with new goals, good intentions, less stress.
Eight years ago this week, I spent days upon days in the hospital with my mother while she struggled her way to a peaceful state. During those sleepless nights and exhausting days, I learned not only about pain, suffering, death, peace, love, perseverance and joy~but also about the strength of family. I learned that time should never be taken for granted, as our days are planned out for us before we enter this earth. I learned that in death there is also life~sounds cliche, I know...this is something that we learn from Christ at an early age. But when you are holding the hand of your mother as she braves the unknown, you have to hope that there is life beyond, and when she leaves, your heart can only survive and move forward if you believe that she is indeed in a Heavenly place. The strength of family came to me through not my siblings, but in cousins that love me as a sister and took care of me when I couldn't take care of myself; who held me close and provided that shoulder to cry upon as it had never been provided so unconditionally. They let me cry, they cried with me. They held me, they also gave me space. They always knew (and still do) what to say and the exact moment to say it. My dear aunt, who still proves to be a motherly woman to me, who loved me as no one else could and understands me more than I sometimes understand myself, even now. My uncle, who in few words gave me a place to feel safe and find rest (and humored the above-mentioned women in all of their whims...in fact, he still does!). A friend that I have known my entire life, who is still my best friend to this very day. My father~whose heart broke more than any of ours the day that my mother left this earth, the very man who gives and gives and gives to and for all of his children; without him, I truly would be nothing. This does not mean that we siblings didn't grieve and share with one another~we most definitely did so. But eight different personalities don't grieve, accept, and move forward at the same pace sometimes. Part of growing and maturing is learning acceptance and practicing forgiveness, which inevitably bring about an attitude of gratitude and grace.
For some of us, family does not always mean your parents, your brother, your sister, aunts, uncles, grandparents. Sometimes our closest "family" are our friends that know us much better than those whose blood we claim to share. Maybe they are classmates from years ago, maybe they are part of your church family or friends that you work with; maybe its your husband, wife, partner, maybe it really is your brother or sister. These are the people that "get" us, that understand and manage to accept us for who we are, without judgement or suggestion. It makes sense, really, that our friends would likely love us "more"...we choose to enter each other's lives on equal ground and of solid mind; we pick one another, after all! I once had a very heated discussion with someone that was very close to me about the small number of close friends that I actually had at that time. I tried to explain that in my heart and mind, it was not about how many friends I possessed, but the bond that I shared with those friends. It was so infuriating to me that I was being asked to explain the unexplainable and to defend these extremely close bonds that I shared (and still do) and considered family. That discussion never did end in resolve, but in choosing shortly after that to go down an uncharted pathway on my Life Road, I ended up in a far different, and much more stable, loving, and peaceful place.
Being the youngest of eight children, and birthed much later than all of my siblings, I lack the closeness shared by those that grow up together. My entire life I always felt so left out in their reminiscing, their activities, their lives. Honestly, I am young enough to be the daughter of several of them, so imagine growing up in a full house, yet a lonely one. At the time, I didn't really understand the family dynamic, as most of my memories within our home just involved my brother David, who was 9 years older than me. If he were here today, I could easily say "he gets me", he always did! Even surrounding my mother as she bravely smiled at us and shared encouragement until her very last breath, I didn't realize that I had been walking around in a world almost all alone. You would assume that being in a large family one would have a constant support system, always a shoulder to cry on, a non-judgemental opinion and words of wisdom to be had. My Life Road has brought me to this day, this very moment and I no longer feel so alone, but this I credit to choices~sold, thorough choices that I made for myself in order to finally, finally be able to live in a peaceful state, surrounded by those that I choose to hold close to my heart.
Eight years have passed, almost to the day, since my mother left this world. I never knew that on the morning of November 7, when I went to cast my vote for Al Gore, that it would be the last time I would sit with my mother and chat, just like any other day. That was the day that we took her to the hospital for the last time and she left this world two days later. I certainly didn't prepare for the void~as I don't think anyone really can~and its a void that goes unfilled even now. But, my Life Road and the choices made along the way have allowed me to exude confidence and have shaped my into the woman that I have become. Recently, an old friend reminded me of a time in the third grade when my brother David came to our classroom near the end of the school year to be a shining light of encouragement and a role model; he came to tell our class about what it felt like to graduate from high school. I had forgotten all about this particular memory, until a few days ago, and in sharing some of my Life Road story with this friend, the subject of my brother and his tragic passing was discussed. My point is this: Even though we may sometimes feel that the crossroads is too much to bear, that we are overwhelmed and confused, we must always find peace in following our hearts and the will for our lives. Even that day back in 1983, David knew somehow that he would be a leader, a teacher, a student, a friend, a husband, a father, a role model. He followed through with his Life Road and his legacy exudes that fact. We all should be so motivated, dedicated, and brave to hop on our bikes without the training wheels and trust in what lies ahead.
I guess that when contemplating which way to go on the road of Life, sometimes we approach a crossroad and we have to make a decision. Contemplating that Fork isn't always easy, and sometimes it doesn't end up the way we hope for or with the people that we expect to be in our next chapter, but one thing is guaranteed~the road goes on, as time also does, and we have to keep moving forward. As I have said before, in life there will be death, but also in death, there is life.
Live a joyous, productive, and loving week ahead. Hug yourself if no one is there to hold you~smile at a stranger, call your best friend. Whisper "I love you" in the ear of your soulmate.
Until again,
Red
Eight years ago this week, I spent days upon days in the hospital with my mother while she struggled her way to a peaceful state. During those sleepless nights and exhausting days, I learned not only about pain, suffering, death, peace, love, perseverance and joy~but also about the strength of family. I learned that time should never be taken for granted, as our days are planned out for us before we enter this earth. I learned that in death there is also life~sounds cliche, I know...this is something that we learn from Christ at an early age. But when you are holding the hand of your mother as she braves the unknown, you have to hope that there is life beyond, and when she leaves, your heart can only survive and move forward if you believe that she is indeed in a Heavenly place. The strength of family came to me through not my siblings, but in cousins that love me as a sister and took care of me when I couldn't take care of myself; who held me close and provided that shoulder to cry upon as it had never been provided so unconditionally. They let me cry, they cried with me. They held me, they also gave me space. They always knew (and still do) what to say and the exact moment to say it. My dear aunt, who still proves to be a motherly woman to me, who loved me as no one else could and understands me more than I sometimes understand myself, even now. My uncle, who in few words gave me a place to feel safe and find rest (and humored the above-mentioned women in all of their whims...in fact, he still does!). A friend that I have known my entire life, who is still my best friend to this very day. My father~whose heart broke more than any of ours the day that my mother left this earth, the very man who gives and gives and gives to and for all of his children; without him, I truly would be nothing. This does not mean that we siblings didn't grieve and share with one another~we most definitely did so. But eight different personalities don't grieve, accept, and move forward at the same pace sometimes. Part of growing and maturing is learning acceptance and practicing forgiveness, which inevitably bring about an attitude of gratitude and grace.
For some of us, family does not always mean your parents, your brother, your sister, aunts, uncles, grandparents. Sometimes our closest "family" are our friends that know us much better than those whose blood we claim to share. Maybe they are classmates from years ago, maybe they are part of your church family or friends that you work with; maybe its your husband, wife, partner, maybe it really is your brother or sister. These are the people that "get" us, that understand and manage to accept us for who we are, without judgement or suggestion. It makes sense, really, that our friends would likely love us "more"...we choose to enter each other's lives on equal ground and of solid mind; we pick one another, after all! I once had a very heated discussion with someone that was very close to me about the small number of close friends that I actually had at that time. I tried to explain that in my heart and mind, it was not about how many friends I possessed, but the bond that I shared with those friends. It was so infuriating to me that I was being asked to explain the unexplainable and to defend these extremely close bonds that I shared (and still do) and considered family. That discussion never did end in resolve, but in choosing shortly after that to go down an uncharted pathway on my Life Road, I ended up in a far different, and much more stable, loving, and peaceful place.
Being the youngest of eight children, and birthed much later than all of my siblings, I lack the closeness shared by those that grow up together. My entire life I always felt so left out in their reminiscing, their activities, their lives. Honestly, I am young enough to be the daughter of several of them, so imagine growing up in a full house, yet a lonely one. At the time, I didn't really understand the family dynamic, as most of my memories within our home just involved my brother David, who was 9 years older than me. If he were here today, I could easily say "he gets me", he always did! Even surrounding my mother as she bravely smiled at us and shared encouragement until her very last breath, I didn't realize that I had been walking around in a world almost all alone. You would assume that being in a large family one would have a constant support system, always a shoulder to cry on, a non-judgemental opinion and words of wisdom to be had. My Life Road has brought me to this day, this very moment and I no longer feel so alone, but this I credit to choices~sold, thorough choices that I made for myself in order to finally, finally be able to live in a peaceful state, surrounded by those that I choose to hold close to my heart.
Eight years have passed, almost to the day, since my mother left this world. I never knew that on the morning of November 7, when I went to cast my vote for Al Gore, that it would be the last time I would sit with my mother and chat, just like any other day. That was the day that we took her to the hospital for the last time and she left this world two days later. I certainly didn't prepare for the void~as I don't think anyone really can~and its a void that goes unfilled even now. But, my Life Road and the choices made along the way have allowed me to exude confidence and have shaped my into the woman that I have become. Recently, an old friend reminded me of a time in the third grade when my brother David came to our classroom near the end of the school year to be a shining light of encouragement and a role model; he came to tell our class about what it felt like to graduate from high school. I had forgotten all about this particular memory, until a few days ago, and in sharing some of my Life Road story with this friend, the subject of my brother and his tragic passing was discussed. My point is this: Even though we may sometimes feel that the crossroads is too much to bear, that we are overwhelmed and confused, we must always find peace in following our hearts and the will for our lives. Even that day back in 1983, David knew somehow that he would be a leader, a teacher, a student, a friend, a husband, a father, a role model. He followed through with his Life Road and his legacy exudes that fact. We all should be so motivated, dedicated, and brave to hop on our bikes without the training wheels and trust in what lies ahead.
I guess that when contemplating which way to go on the road of Life, sometimes we approach a crossroad and we have to make a decision. Contemplating that Fork isn't always easy, and sometimes it doesn't end up the way we hope for or with the people that we expect to be in our next chapter, but one thing is guaranteed~the road goes on, as time also does, and we have to keep moving forward. As I have said before, in life there will be death, but also in death, there is life.
Live a joyous, productive, and loving week ahead. Hug yourself if no one is there to hold you~smile at a stranger, call your best friend. Whisper "I love you" in the ear of your soulmate.
Until again,
Red
Monday, September 15, 2008
There (Was) a Storm a-coming...
I thought this would be the easiest way to update a vast amount of concerned friends and family as to our survival of our very first tropical storm...Ike.
Texas is a BIG state...very large, in fact! It has amazed me since I landed here that so many others have also overlooked the actual size of the 2nd largest state in the USA! For example, I recently had a request from an un-named family member who was planning a visit to a far-off west Texas town (but not El Paso...haha) and wanted to know if they "could swing by here" for a few days. Um, sure, if driving seven hours out of your way is included in swinging-on-by...please be my guest! So, in regards to Hurricane Ike, the DFW Metroplex is northwest of Galveston and Houston, and we did see a period of fairly heavy rain and some pretty hefty wind gusts (normal for this Windy City gal), but thankfully...no damage here or in the surrounding area at all. I admit it...I was somewhat giddy with anticipation to have a little weather excitement, without power failure and damage, of course, to write about and report, but alas, nothing. I have seen more weather in 30-some years of tornado watching than I did during the much anticipated arrival of Ike.
Scott is here in Texas and we have spent the last two weeks catching up, hanging out, being silly, having fun (fun that doesn't cost money, by the way!). We had a lovely Labor Day weekend with Eric, Jeni, Zach and Tom & Theresa, along with Uncle Phil and Aunt Laura, and cousin Chris. Sebastian is thrilled at his Dadder's arrival, too. We are busy making great friends, finding a church, putting Scott's clothes away...sitting by the pool, drinking wine, grilling out...its no wonder that you haven't seen any recent blogging activity from me!
The much anticipated blogs previously mentioned (some more than once) will most definitely arrive this week, so please keep on checkin'! You will more than likely notice that when they are finally posted, the dates will be changed for accuracy. I have been journaling since being without online access and my plan is to transfer my journal blogs to this blog for your reading pleasure. :)
Also~the first ever Cowgirl Music Challenge has begun! Help me to compile a list of songs that are in, about, for, in regards to, by, etc: Texas, Texans, living in TX...you get the idea. Suggestions must be legitimate, accurate, and include the artist's name as well. The most helpful helper will win a prize of my discretion, which will most certainly have something to do with Texas. ;)
Again, comments are welcome; either via this very site or private email...please let me know if you're reading. Blogging takes a significant chunk of time, and though enjoyable for me to be writing in this medium, I only will continue to do so if there is interest.
More updates coming...
Until again,
~Red
Texas is a BIG state...very large, in fact! It has amazed me since I landed here that so many others have also overlooked the actual size of the 2nd largest state in the USA! For example, I recently had a request from an un-named family member who was planning a visit to a far-off west Texas town (but not El Paso...haha) and wanted to know if they "could swing by here" for a few days. Um, sure, if driving seven hours out of your way is included in swinging-on-by...please be my guest! So, in regards to Hurricane Ike, the DFW Metroplex is northwest of Galveston and Houston, and we did see a period of fairly heavy rain and some pretty hefty wind gusts (normal for this Windy City gal), but thankfully...no damage here or in the surrounding area at all. I admit it...I was somewhat giddy with anticipation to have a little weather excitement, without power failure and damage, of course, to write about and report, but alas, nothing. I have seen more weather in 30-some years of tornado watching than I did during the much anticipated arrival of Ike.
Scott is here in Texas and we have spent the last two weeks catching up, hanging out, being silly, having fun (fun that doesn't cost money, by the way!). We had a lovely Labor Day weekend with Eric, Jeni, Zach and Tom & Theresa, along with Uncle Phil and Aunt Laura, and cousin Chris. Sebastian is thrilled at his Dadder's arrival, too. We are busy making great friends, finding a church, putting Scott's clothes away...sitting by the pool, drinking wine, grilling out...its no wonder that you haven't seen any recent blogging activity from me!
The much anticipated blogs previously mentioned (some more than once) will most definitely arrive this week, so please keep on checkin'! You will more than likely notice that when they are finally posted, the dates will be changed for accuracy. I have been journaling since being without online access and my plan is to transfer my journal blogs to this blog for your reading pleasure. :)
Also~the first ever Cowgirl Music Challenge has begun! Help me to compile a list of songs that are in, about, for, in regards to, by, etc: Texas, Texans, living in TX...you get the idea. Suggestions must be legitimate, accurate, and include the artist's name as well. The most helpful helper will win a prize of my discretion, which will most certainly have something to do with Texas. ;)
Again, comments are welcome; either via this very site or private email...please let me know if you're reading. Blogging takes a significant chunk of time, and though enjoyable for me to be writing in this medium, I only will continue to do so if there is interest.
More updates coming...
Until again,
~Red
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Updated Update
Well, Sebastian and I have made it into our 2nd week and are enduring the hottest temperatures of our lives so far! I am still enamoured by Cowboy Love....nothing the weather here can destroy in my mind and thoughts! Missing Scott tremendously~if absence indeed makes the heart grow fonder, then I will burst upon his arrival!!! (Sebastian is missing his dadders very much, too.)
I have one box left to unpack, one load of laundry to do, countless emails and phone calls to return, blogs to read, blogs to write and post, interviews to attend, decisions to make, friends to meet, wine to drink, pet socials to make it to...In the City with Red's new location has not made her less busy!
Upcoming blogs to be posted--keep an eye out for these over the weekend when I have time to relax and write:
Goodbye, Windy City
Cowboy Love, Part 2
To Kill a Mockingbird
Dog-Walkin'
Ramblings, Recommendations, and Random Suggestions
Surprise Anderson Announcement (gonna keep you guessing on this one for a few...)
Many thoughts in mind, not enough time to write it all down until the week comes to and end, but promise you many laughs, much giggling, a few 'a-ha' moments, and maybe a tear or two.
Until again,
~Red
I have one box left to unpack, one load of laundry to do, countless emails and phone calls to return, blogs to read, blogs to write and post, interviews to attend, decisions to make, friends to meet, wine to drink, pet socials to make it to...In the City with Red's new location has not made her less busy!
Upcoming blogs to be posted--keep an eye out for these over the weekend when I have time to relax and write:
Goodbye, Windy City
Cowboy Love, Part 2
To Kill a Mockingbird
Dog-Walkin'
Ramblings, Recommendations, and Random Suggestions
Surprise Anderson Announcement (gonna keep you guessing on this one for a few...)
Many thoughts in mind, not enough time to write it all down until the week comes to and end, but promise you many laughs, much giggling, a few 'a-ha' moments, and maybe a tear or two.
Until again,
~Red
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Hey Ya'll, Red in the City is officially in a new city!
So, it's happened without much of a headache and is official--I am a proud resident of the Lone Star State! Sebastian and I left Chicago on Friday morning and arrived in Irving, Texas on Sunday afternoon to our temporary digs...aka, swanky loft apartment in swanky part of town (unknown to me when choosing!). We've met a ton of great people and dogs already and I think its pretty safe to say that the amount of friendliness here is amazing, to say the least. Far different than our walks in Lincoln Park, that's for sure!
Being away from Scott is challenging, but worth the heartache and stress for a few weeks that will allow us to make the most solid and permanent choices necessary. Lots of people are already planning visits--Jeni, Eric and Zach over Labor Day weekend; my dad sometime in August (to deliver my awesome antique lamps, of course!), my friend Laura from Chicago is considering a plane ticket, and my niece Ashely might come before she is off to college at the end of the month~so, lots to keep me busy and help the time pass more quickly!
Sebastian is great~I think that he will be even better once the movers arrive today with some of our belongings; at that moment, I think we will both feel more "at home" in this place.
Hmmm....interesting/funny things so far??? Mostly too tired to think straight, and the wine rack is empty--Sunday's arrival was great! Uncle Phil and Aunt Laura and Papa T were all here with big hugs and open arms (that, and they also took me grocery shopping and out for a much-needed dinner!). So, some people had previously tried to scare the crap out of me by describing the plethora of bugs, rodents, reptiles, etc that might (or might not) be found in my new city. Hello, I have lived in Chicago for a decade and have seen rats bigger than some of your dogs and Thanksgiving turkeys!!! So, I did not give it much thought until.....let's just say that Uncle Phil, scientist that he is, managed to not only scare the crap out of me (pretty hard to actually do since I ate way too much fast food in the course of three days! ick!) but also caused me to jump off of my aerobed at least 10 times during the first night here. I thought that I had tarantulas and scorpions in bed with me...so, thanks Uncle Honey!!! Seriously, though---I have asked almost every person I have encountered so far about the above-mentioned list of scary things, and the general consensus is that I am most likely pretty safe from all scary-listed things above in my swanky third-floor loft. Whew! So, I have been working on catching up on my lost sleep the last two days!
Movers are finally coming this afternoon and more interviews on the horizon. Still promising Cowboy Love, Part 2 in the very near future!
Comments???? Please??? Who is reading this stuff?????
Until again,
~Red
Being away from Scott is challenging, but worth the heartache and stress for a few weeks that will allow us to make the most solid and permanent choices necessary. Lots of people are already planning visits--Jeni, Eric and Zach over Labor Day weekend; my dad sometime in August (to deliver my awesome antique lamps, of course!), my friend Laura from Chicago is considering a plane ticket, and my niece Ashely might come before she is off to college at the end of the month~so, lots to keep me busy and help the time pass more quickly!
Sebastian is great~I think that he will be even better once the movers arrive today with some of our belongings; at that moment, I think we will both feel more "at home" in this place.
Hmmm....interesting/funny things so far??? Mostly too tired to think straight, and the wine rack is empty--Sunday's arrival was great! Uncle Phil and Aunt Laura and Papa T were all here with big hugs and open arms (that, and they also took me grocery shopping and out for a much-needed dinner!). So, some people had previously tried to scare the crap out of me by describing the plethora of bugs, rodents, reptiles, etc that might (or might not) be found in my new city. Hello, I have lived in Chicago for a decade and have seen rats bigger than some of your dogs and Thanksgiving turkeys!!! So, I did not give it much thought until.....let's just say that Uncle Phil, scientist that he is, managed to not only scare the crap out of me (pretty hard to actually do since I ate way too much fast food in the course of three days! ick!) but also caused me to jump off of my aerobed at least 10 times during the first night here. I thought that I had tarantulas and scorpions in bed with me...so, thanks Uncle Honey!!! Seriously, though---I have asked almost every person I have encountered so far about the above-mentioned list of scary things, and the general consensus is that I am most likely pretty safe from all scary-listed things above in my swanky third-floor loft. Whew! So, I have been working on catching up on my lost sleep the last two days!
Movers are finally coming this afternoon and more interviews on the horizon. Still promising Cowboy Love, Part 2 in the very near future!
Comments???? Please??? Who is reading this stuff?????
Until again,
~Red
Monday, July 14, 2008
Moving Update
Wow, moving day is almost here~time has gone by so quickly and I am not ready!
Just a quick little update and then regular posting will begin again next week after I am settled in the Lone Star State....
The movers come tomorrow...Tuesday...to pick up all of our stuff to drive it to Texas. Scott is going to temporarily stay with our good friend, Jimmy, here in Chicago until I secure a new job down south and get our temporary apartment situated. We rented a small apartment in Irving, TX for a few months while we look around for houses, jobs, etc. Its pretty cute...check out the website: www.loftsatlascolinas.com Its a very secure apartment community, which will be perfect for Sebastian and I while we wait for Scottie to join us. (Plus, all elevators...good for our bud and his arthritic joints!)
I will begin my journey on Friday morning, stopping in St. Louis to see my cousin Amy Minch, then continuing on to Tulsa on Saturday. Sunday will complete the driving portion of this excursion, arriving in Irving in the early afternoon. Then the real journey will begin!
Please feel free to call and check in with me while I am driving with Sebastian. My cell phone is 773-307-8547.
Prayers in general are always appreciated, but are also being summoned especially this week.
Cowboy Love, Part 2 coming soon....
Until again,
~Red
Just a quick little update and then regular posting will begin again next week after I am settled in the Lone Star State....
The movers come tomorrow...Tuesday...to pick up all of our stuff to drive it to Texas. Scott is going to temporarily stay with our good friend, Jimmy, here in Chicago until I secure a new job down south and get our temporary apartment situated. We rented a small apartment in Irving, TX for a few months while we look around for houses, jobs, etc. Its pretty cute...check out the website: www.loftsatlascolinas.com Its a very secure apartment community, which will be perfect for Sebastian and I while we wait for Scottie to join us. (Plus, all elevators...good for our bud and his arthritic joints!)
I will begin my journey on Friday morning, stopping in St. Louis to see my cousin Amy Minch, then continuing on to Tulsa on Saturday. Sunday will complete the driving portion of this excursion, arriving in Irving in the early afternoon. Then the real journey will begin!
Please feel free to call and check in with me while I am driving with Sebastian. My cell phone is 773-307-8547.
Prayers in general are always appreciated, but are also being summoned especially this week.
Cowboy Love, Part 2 coming soon....
Until again,
~Red
Monday, June 30, 2008
Cowboy Love, Part 1
Wow, I am terrible at posting! I used to be so good at maintaing it, as well as keeping in touch with my family and friends and the month of June has escaped me! I have a feeling that the next few weeks will be busy as well..
Cowboy Love, Part 1...
(No, I am not ever going to be a Dallas Cowboys fan...)
Scott and I have been in Texas for a week now with Tom (my father-in-law). It has been exciting, interesting, exhausting, and most of all...really fun. I am In Love with Texas. If Texas were a man, I would marry him, cowboy hat and all. :)
We are moving here. Yep, its happening. July 22 to be exact. I need to get myself organized here and re-packed this morning, but watch for details later in the week. Cowboy Love, Part 2 will be posted soon...
Until again,
~Red
Cowboy Love, Part 1...
(No, I am not ever going to be a Dallas Cowboys fan...)
Scott and I have been in Texas for a week now with Tom (my father-in-law). It has been exciting, interesting, exhausting, and most of all...really fun. I am In Love with Texas. If Texas were a man, I would marry him, cowboy hat and all. :)
We are moving here. Yep, its happening. July 22 to be exact. I need to get myself organized here and re-packed this morning, but watch for details later in the week. Cowboy Love, Part 2 will be posted soon...
Until again,
~Red
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Thanks for Looking!
Welcome, again!
I just sent out a massive email announcing the launch of my blog so this may be your first visit~glad you're here!
(This isn't a new blog space for me, but one that I haven't utilized much due to posting on another site, that conveniently has LOST most of my material...arrgh!)
Just a few clarifications for the quick emails that I have already received in the last ten minutes...
1) No, I am not pregnant. Whew...you can breathe easily now! (so can we!)
2) Duh, Scottie, aka: Scott Anderson...is my HUSBAND of almost three years! Seriously? You didn't know that? I have some new news, but that's not part of anything new in this household!
3) No, Sebastian is not my adopted-from-another-country-son. He is our Chocolate Labrador that will be seven on July 25. Really? Another silly question!
4) For the other random questions--those thoughts/situations will definitely be reflected upon in my blogging realm. Perhaps they have been previously and most likely will be shared again. (wink, wink!)
5) And lastly, No, I absolutely do not drink wine mixed with vodka. Nor do I drink wine every night. Or vodka every night. I enjoy a nice glass of wine and write some of my funniest pieces while partaking. (Well, at least I think they're funny...) And, yep...I hate Lincoln Park. Read on in the blogging history for some of the reasons why!
Again, please feel free to share any and all comments. I love the thoughts of others, and most likely at some point in time, you too will be written about in this very space. :) Don't worry~if I don't like your comment, I will just delete it before anyone else has the opportunity to see it!
Thanks for joining the inner world that I call my own.
Until again,
~Red
I just sent out a massive email announcing the launch of my blog so this may be your first visit~glad you're here!
(This isn't a new blog space for me, but one that I haven't utilized much due to posting on another site, that conveniently has LOST most of my material...arrgh!)
Just a few clarifications for the quick emails that I have already received in the last ten minutes...
1) No, I am not pregnant. Whew...you can breathe easily now! (so can we!)
2) Duh, Scottie, aka: Scott Anderson...is my HUSBAND of almost three years! Seriously? You didn't know that? I have some new news, but that's not part of anything new in this household!
3) No, Sebastian is not my adopted-from-another-country-son. He is our Chocolate Labrador that will be seven on July 25. Really? Another silly question!
4) For the other random questions--those thoughts/situations will definitely be reflected upon in my blogging realm. Perhaps they have been previously and most likely will be shared again. (wink, wink!)
5) And lastly, No, I absolutely do not drink wine mixed with vodka. Nor do I drink wine every night. Or vodka every night. I enjoy a nice glass of wine and write some of my funniest pieces while partaking. (Well, at least I think they're funny...) And, yep...I hate Lincoln Park. Read on in the blogging history for some of the reasons why!
Again, please feel free to share any and all comments. I love the thoughts of others, and most likely at some point in time, you too will be written about in this very space. :) Don't worry~if I don't like your comment, I will just delete it before anyone else has the opportunity to see it!
Thanks for joining the inner world that I call my own.
Until again,
~Red
Friday, May 30, 2008
Grass, Rain and Laptops
So, I was walking Sebastian a few mornings ago, minding my own business (as usual)...until I came upon a women who was cutting her front yard grassy patch. With SCISSORS. They appeared to be kitchen shears. In my mind I thought, "Hmmm, why not get yourself one of those handy-dandy human powered lawnmower thingys and save yourself some time, not to mention your back?". Yep, These were the Thoughts in my Mind. In reality, I began giggling uncontrollably and then Sebastian decided to lift his leg on her fence. tee hee~what on earth are people thinking sometimes?
Raining, yet again, and getting warmer and more humid, making for yet another great hair day. Luckily, my lovely sister-in-law turned me onto the absolute best curly hair stylist....no excuse me...he is an ARTIST...a few weeks ago and I have an amazing new haircut that allows me embrace my curls in all of their loveliness. Thanks, Jeni!
Ah, cupcakes. Chicago is filled with cupcake bakeries and every few months it seems as if another one opens. (Side note: yuppies don't mind paying $4 a cake for their uncontrollable, spoiled, bratty, misbehaving kids*) I follow a blog belonging to a fellow Chicagoan and she often writes about her cupcake searches too. On Wednesday, she had a cupcake mishap (her cat vomited on a box of cupcakes meant for a birthday celebration) and needed recommendations for a different bakery to purchase more~apparently, she frequents one particular bakery often and didn't want to go back in there to replace the vomit-ruined dozen. This reminded me to not only give her a good rec'o, but to also share my devout dedication to one Cupcake Bakery in particular here in Chicago-Swirlz, on Belden.
For those of you who know me personally or who follow my blogs, you know that my brother David passed away last August, leaving behind his wife and two teenage daughters. They came to stay with Scott and I for a few days before Christmas and had their first Chicago cupcake experience. My older niece, Ashley, is graduating from high school this Sunday (by the way, check out my family album of pics on myspace.com/gracefuldaisy for these gorgeous girls-Ash has red hair just like mine!), and in planning her party we couldn't decide on what kind of dessert would best emulate Ashley's personality and accomplishments of the last year. We decided on cupcakes and I began to investigate all avenues of cupcake purchasing vs. baking them myself...then the question of transporting them from Chicago to Green Bay in humid weather became an issue...I wrote a letter to the manager and owners of Swirlz and told them of my brother, his passing, his three precious girls, and their Christmas Cupcake Experience. I told them that I wanted to do something special for Ashley, as this was going to be the family's first big milestone since David left us, and a difficult one at that. I was hoping for some kind of courtesy discount, or maybe just a few free cupcakes on top of my substantial order for the party. What happened next is almost unbelievable~the wonderful people of Swirlz in Chicago not only embraced this tragic story and upcoming event with the care and concern you would expect of just close friends or family members...they were so touched by the story of my nieces and their perseverance and faithfulness and have donated, yes donated, every single cupcake necessary for Ashley's party. This is just another example of the goodness to be found within our communities, and proves yet again that my brother undoubtedly touched many lives and hearts without ever coming face to face with so many people. So, patronize Swirlz on Belden as often as you can if you live in Chicago~they have awesome cupcakes and friendly service! (Thanks, Paula, for all of your diligent attention to detail and for embracing our family during this time!) *oh, yeah, Scott and I DO have to transport above mentioned cupcakes x 150 somehow on Saturday! Pray for cool weather!*
I am trying to catch up on emails and such that have gone by the wayside this week, from our ancient desktop. Ugh. I was goofing around last night on amazon.com via the laptop (which also houses four years of my writings and ideas, and everything for my current school project), when suddenly it went dark. As in....lights out, good night, see ya later. Dark. And not coming back on. I have tried everything to troubleshoot the problem and the best I have been able to do so far is see the outline of my desktop icons and background picture...but, its still in the dark. It's going in today to those wonderful guys called the Geek Squad...so let's cross our fingers and hope for the best! I will be absolutely crushed if all of my material that has been written, edited, rewritten, submitted, denied, etc. is GONE. (Yes, I know...time for also purchasing external hard drive to periodically back things up. You'd think we would have learned our lesson a few years back...) So, if you try to email me this weekend with no response, its because 1)I am out of town (duh, didn't you read the paragraph about cupcakes being transported???) and 2)I will not have my trusty laptop with me for a few days.
On another side note...please do not tell me about the SATC movie if you see it before me!!! I can't see it until later next week and am avoiding any and all spoilers in regards to it....SO KEEP IT TO YOURSELF, PEOPLE!!!
Lovely weekend wishes to everyone.
Until again,
~Red
Raining, yet again, and getting warmer and more humid, making for yet another great hair day. Luckily, my lovely sister-in-law turned me onto the absolute best curly hair stylist....no excuse me...he is an ARTIST...a few weeks ago and I have an amazing new haircut that allows me embrace my curls in all of their loveliness. Thanks, Jeni!
Ah, cupcakes. Chicago is filled with cupcake bakeries and every few months it seems as if another one opens. (Side note: yuppies don't mind paying $4 a cake for their uncontrollable, spoiled, bratty, misbehaving kids*) I follow a blog belonging to a fellow Chicagoan and she often writes about her cupcake searches too. On Wednesday, she had a cupcake mishap (her cat vomited on a box of cupcakes meant for a birthday celebration) and needed recommendations for a different bakery to purchase more~apparently, she frequents one particular bakery often and didn't want to go back in there to replace the vomit-ruined dozen. This reminded me to not only give her a good rec'o, but to also share my devout dedication to one Cupcake Bakery in particular here in Chicago-Swirlz, on Belden.
For those of you who know me personally or who follow my blogs, you know that my brother David passed away last August, leaving behind his wife and two teenage daughters. They came to stay with Scott and I for a few days before Christmas and had their first Chicago cupcake experience. My older niece, Ashley, is graduating from high school this Sunday (by the way, check out my family album of pics on myspace.com/gracefuldaisy for these gorgeous girls-Ash has red hair just like mine!), and in planning her party we couldn't decide on what kind of dessert would best emulate Ashley's personality and accomplishments of the last year. We decided on cupcakes and I began to investigate all avenues of cupcake purchasing vs. baking them myself...then the question of transporting them from Chicago to Green Bay in humid weather became an issue...I wrote a letter to the manager and owners of Swirlz and told them of my brother, his passing, his three precious girls, and their Christmas Cupcake Experience. I told them that I wanted to do something special for Ashley, as this was going to be the family's first big milestone since David left us, and a difficult one at that. I was hoping for some kind of courtesy discount, or maybe just a few free cupcakes on top of my substantial order for the party. What happened next is almost unbelievable~the wonderful people of Swirlz in Chicago not only embraced this tragic story and upcoming event with the care and concern you would expect of just close friends or family members...they were so touched by the story of my nieces and their perseverance and faithfulness and have donated, yes donated, every single cupcake necessary for Ashley's party. This is just another example of the goodness to be found within our communities, and proves yet again that my brother undoubtedly touched many lives and hearts without ever coming face to face with so many people. So, patronize Swirlz on Belden as often as you can if you live in Chicago~they have awesome cupcakes and friendly service! (Thanks, Paula, for all of your diligent attention to detail and for embracing our family during this time!) *oh, yeah, Scott and I DO have to transport above mentioned cupcakes x 150 somehow on Saturday! Pray for cool weather!*
I am trying to catch up on emails and such that have gone by the wayside this week, from our ancient desktop. Ugh. I was goofing around last night on amazon.com via the laptop (which also houses four years of my writings and ideas, and everything for my current school project), when suddenly it went dark. As in....lights out, good night, see ya later. Dark. And not coming back on. I have tried everything to troubleshoot the problem and the best I have been able to do so far is see the outline of my desktop icons and background picture...but, its still in the dark. It's going in today to those wonderful guys called the Geek Squad...so let's cross our fingers and hope for the best! I will be absolutely crushed if all of my material that has been written, edited, rewritten, submitted, denied, etc. is GONE. (Yes, I know...time for also purchasing external hard drive to periodically back things up. You'd think we would have learned our lesson a few years back...) So, if you try to email me this weekend with no response, its because 1)I am out of town (duh, didn't you read the paragraph about cupcakes being transported???) and 2)I will not have my trusty laptop with me for a few days.
On another side note...please do not tell me about the SATC movie if you see it before me!!! I can't see it until later next week and am avoiding any and all spoilers in regards to it....SO KEEP IT TO YOURSELF, PEOPLE!!!
Lovely weekend wishes to everyone.
Until again,
~Red
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Crazy Dog Lady
I am crazy dog lady.
Yes, today a stranger called me crazy for talking to my dog. I wasn't bothering anyone, I swear. He sneezed; I blessed him. How is that crazy?
Okay, maybe it is a little strange to people who might not have pets. Or to people who have children and pets, because these people tend to forget that their pets were once their children.
Or maybe I am crazy dog lady because I actually tried to explain myself to this stranger who insulted me. I am sure that he thinks I am REALLY crazy dog lady now after my feeble attempt to elaborate on the reasons why I have conversations with Sebastian.
Huh. Well, sometimes it is really lonely here and I talk to Sebastian because of that.
Actually, that isn't true.
Lonely or not, I always talk to him. He is my loyal friend, a listener without verbal comment. He understands, people. He does. I can see you judegmentally shaking your head and agreeing with the stranger on the street. My dog is my child. He's smart. He's here when you aren't. He loves me without stipulations and without expecting anything more than some pats on the head, a few belly rubs, and random long walks. He doesn't care what I look like, what I say or how I say it. I don't have to wait for him to return phone calls, emails or make plans weeks in advance because of busy schedules. He's adaptable and sweet. He knows my moods sometimes before I do. And, I know if the weather is changing for the worse because of his actions. We have communication, my dog and I. That isn't crazy. It's called connection. Love. Friendship without expectations.
Maybe I am not crazy dog lady after all.
Or if I am, then so be it. I wouldn't give him up for anything in this world.
Yes, today a stranger called me crazy for talking to my dog. I wasn't bothering anyone, I swear. He sneezed; I blessed him. How is that crazy?
Okay, maybe it is a little strange to people who might not have pets. Or to people who have children and pets, because these people tend to forget that their pets were once their children.
Or maybe I am crazy dog lady because I actually tried to explain myself to this stranger who insulted me. I am sure that he thinks I am REALLY crazy dog lady now after my feeble attempt to elaborate on the reasons why I have conversations with Sebastian.
Huh. Well, sometimes it is really lonely here and I talk to Sebastian because of that.
Actually, that isn't true.
Lonely or not, I always talk to him. He is my loyal friend, a listener without verbal comment. He understands, people. He does. I can see you judegmentally shaking your head and agreeing with the stranger on the street. My dog is my child. He's smart. He's here when you aren't. He loves me without stipulations and without expecting anything more than some pats on the head, a few belly rubs, and random long walks. He doesn't care what I look like, what I say or how I say it. I don't have to wait for him to return phone calls, emails or make plans weeks in advance because of busy schedules. He's adaptable and sweet. He knows my moods sometimes before I do. And, I know if the weather is changing for the worse because of his actions. We have communication, my dog and I. That isn't crazy. It's called connection. Love. Friendship without expectations.
Maybe I am not crazy dog lady after all.
Or if I am, then so be it. I wouldn't give him up for anything in this world.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Life Goes On
Life has to go on~it must, and it will.
It is necessary that each day propel us forward. We've all heard of it, the Circle of Life...you're born into this world; you live; and then you're gone. In this life, there will be death. Its a fact, its nothing new. Its not a surprise. It is what it is. We lose people that we love; we lose people that we don't love as much. Why, in the midst of life, when death strikes, do we regress and act as if this situation has never happened to anyone but US???? Why do some of us move forward gracefully, and others digress to the point of dying within themselves?
I am full of questions, though short on answers. Should we feel guilty for moving foward after losing someone we love? What if others around us want to constantly, and consistently, drag us down with them, when in fact we have tried so hard to get up each day and move on? How should we handle these dark clouds around us? Do we alienate them (further) from our lives, or blindly jump into the chaos they create, all in "the name of family"? Who decides what the limits are? In the grand scheme of life, shouldn't we expect death, and maybe even learn to welcome it when its time?
Shouldn't someone be in charge of keeping all of these clowns in line? I refuse to let my life become a circus and am proud of the fact that in my own little family unit, we have grieved, grown, and pressed on. What effect will this decision have on me?
That's an answer that I do know...I will be a one (wo-)man show.
And, what do we do when someone bypasses boundaries that we have strived to set? Confrontationally or gracefully, there will always be someone that isn't satisfied. How, in good faith and for personal sanity, can we draw the line and be sure that someone doesn't come along with an eraser? And when the lines are crossed, how do we move foward as broken souls?
This has been a mildly frustrating day. If you try to call me and my phone doesn't work, its because I have disconnected it!!!! We all know I wouldn't really do that, but it sure is tempting! Don't worry, a glass of wine and I will be back to my normal self.
Please share thoughts.
Until again,
~Red
*Scottie, you are always included in my one (wo-)man show. No worries for you!
It is necessary that each day propel us forward. We've all heard of it, the Circle of Life...you're born into this world; you live; and then you're gone. In this life, there will be death. Its a fact, its nothing new. Its not a surprise. It is what it is. We lose people that we love; we lose people that we don't love as much. Why, in the midst of life, when death strikes, do we regress and act as if this situation has never happened to anyone but US???? Why do some of us move forward gracefully, and others digress to the point of dying within themselves?
I am full of questions, though short on answers. Should we feel guilty for moving foward after losing someone we love? What if others around us want to constantly, and consistently, drag us down with them, when in fact we have tried so hard to get up each day and move on? How should we handle these dark clouds around us? Do we alienate them (further) from our lives, or blindly jump into the chaos they create, all in "the name of family"? Who decides what the limits are? In the grand scheme of life, shouldn't we expect death, and maybe even learn to welcome it when its time?
Shouldn't someone be in charge of keeping all of these clowns in line? I refuse to let my life become a circus and am proud of the fact that in my own little family unit, we have grieved, grown, and pressed on. What effect will this decision have on me?
That's an answer that I do know...I will be a one (wo-)man show.
And, what do we do when someone bypasses boundaries that we have strived to set? Confrontationally or gracefully, there will always be someone that isn't satisfied. How, in good faith and for personal sanity, can we draw the line and be sure that someone doesn't come along with an eraser? And when the lines are crossed, how do we move foward as broken souls?
This has been a mildly frustrating day. If you try to call me and my phone doesn't work, its because I have disconnected it!!!! We all know I wouldn't really do that, but it sure is tempting! Don't worry, a glass of wine and I will be back to my normal self.
Please share thoughts.
Until again,
~Red
*Scottie, you are always included in my one (wo-)man show. No worries for you!
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Sleeping With My Eyes Wide Open...
Thanks to each of you that sent private comments about my last blog. My general rule in life is one that just simply steers us forward simply, kindly and with love for both the known and unknown. My brother has indeed touched my life in the thirty three years that I knew him, and through his children his presence is still very much real and familiar. So, you're welcome, you unnamed commentors--any little piece I can share to help move you forward is generously given.
Okay, onto the new day...
Tonight I have been extremely busy reading and writing and brainstorming. The clarity that I experienced last week has caused the creative juices to flow faster than usual (or at least faster than they have in awhile), and I can't seem to type fast enough to keep up with myself! In the midst of this busyness, I am also getting ready to start my new job, entertain my in-laws, partake in Memorial Day activities, clean my house, and pass my class with flying colors! Whew...oh yes, and also spend time with Scott and Sebastian and continue to contemplate our future living situation! I don't have very much on my plate at the moment, so what is wrong with me????
I barely slept last night at all. Two glasses of wine, four Tylenol PMs, and cuddling with Sebastian didn't even help. This city is making me crazy these days. The traffic, the sirens, the rude and pretentious neighbors, the expense, the dirt, dust and pollution~I believe that I have reached my limit within these city limits. One would never guess that within the hustle and bustle that you can feel isolated and even lonely. Seriously...I have a wonderful life with a husband that I adore, a dog that is my child, and friends that are closer than family. My in-laws are by far the most normal of families and I am blessed to have been welcomed with open arms. It's just the city...I long for a yard and trees and grass. Flowers. Tomato plants. Going barefoot. Stars. Quiet. Peace. That is what it really boils down to...peace. I'm thankful for where I am; grateful for who I have become; content with where I have been. But, confused about where I will venture to next...
The point is, and its not that exciting, is that I think today, at some point, I was literally sleeping with my eyes wide open. I was still writing, but just on autopilot. I read some of what I wrote this afternoon and didn't even remember writing it at all. I'm not under the influence, nor have I ever touched drugs...just tired today, and still have more to accomplish before my day ends and sweet slumber abounds.
Does this happen to anyone else? And, is there anything that works more effectively than overmedicating with over-the-counter stuff + wine???? Preferably only legal substance suggestions that are safe, please!
Until, again...
~Red
Okay, onto the new day...
Tonight I have been extremely busy reading and writing and brainstorming. The clarity that I experienced last week has caused the creative juices to flow faster than usual (or at least faster than they have in awhile), and I can't seem to type fast enough to keep up with myself! In the midst of this busyness, I am also getting ready to start my new job, entertain my in-laws, partake in Memorial Day activities, clean my house, and pass my class with flying colors! Whew...oh yes, and also spend time with Scott and Sebastian and continue to contemplate our future living situation! I don't have very much on my plate at the moment, so what is wrong with me????
I barely slept last night at all. Two glasses of wine, four Tylenol PMs, and cuddling with Sebastian didn't even help. This city is making me crazy these days. The traffic, the sirens, the rude and pretentious neighbors, the expense, the dirt, dust and pollution~I believe that I have reached my limit within these city limits. One would never guess that within the hustle and bustle that you can feel isolated and even lonely. Seriously...I have a wonderful life with a husband that I adore, a dog that is my child, and friends that are closer than family. My in-laws are by far the most normal of families and I am blessed to have been welcomed with open arms. It's just the city...I long for a yard and trees and grass. Flowers. Tomato plants. Going barefoot. Stars. Quiet. Peace. That is what it really boils down to...peace. I'm thankful for where I am; grateful for who I have become; content with where I have been. But, confused about where I will venture to next...
The point is, and its not that exciting, is that I think today, at some point, I was literally sleeping with my eyes wide open. I was still writing, but just on autopilot. I read some of what I wrote this afternoon and didn't even remember writing it at all. I'm not under the influence, nor have I ever touched drugs...just tired today, and still have more to accomplish before my day ends and sweet slumber abounds.
Does this happen to anyone else? And, is there anything that works more effectively than overmedicating with over-the-counter stuff + wine???? Preferably only legal substance suggestions that are safe, please!
Until, again...
~Red
Monday, May 12, 2008
Peace, Life and Moving Forward
Monday, Monday...
I am sitting here at my desk, taking a break from reading overload (not fun reading, actually reading for a class that I am taking), and wanted to share a few thoughts with those of you that know and love me. Monday is usually the start of a busy work or school week for most of us, and today didn't seem much different until right about now...
I spent an amazing week with my sister-in-law and nieces in Wisconsin last week. Not only was the week relaxing and restful and a nice break from the hectic city of Chicago, I came home with a new-found sense of peace. Yes, peace. Never have I been in a place that exudes such a calm and I have to say that it was the least place that I would have expected it to come from, especially regarding the loss of my brother and friend, David.
The last nine months have been a very long and winding road for our family, both as individuals and as a unit. Each one of us has our own family unit, and my brother left behind his family unit of two daughters and a wonderful wife, as well as sisters, brothers, our father, aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, wonderful inlaws, a load of good friends, and a church family who loved him more than we can fathom. Being with the kids last week was refreshing, comforting, and actually a lot of fun! They have his sense of humor and his love of life. To see the three of them together, pressing on in the midst of change and learning to step forward and still embrace life, love, and one another is remarkable. I am ashamed for the down times I have spent missing my brother when I see their progress with each other and their surroundings. They have taught me to look forward with the grace and understanding that I think can only come from accepting the situation and finding the peace and goodness that has transpired since.
I wanted to share this in hopes of inspiring someone today. Live life fully, without regrets. Sometimes we don't get a second chance to right the wrongs on our path, so please try to life as wholly and full of love as possible. For each situation that we endure, there is someone else in this world that is suffering even more than us. In life, there will be death and grief. Our faith in God and our love for our family and friends can be a source of great strength to press on.
Smile at a stranger. Say please and thank you often. Help someone carry their groceries. Feel the warm spring breeze and sit in the sunshine for a few minutes during your lunch break. Be kind and gentle and you will too find the peace that I have recently found.
I am sitting here at my desk, taking a break from reading overload (not fun reading, actually reading for a class that I am taking), and wanted to share a few thoughts with those of you that know and love me. Monday is usually the start of a busy work or school week for most of us, and today didn't seem much different until right about now...
I spent an amazing week with my sister-in-law and nieces in Wisconsin last week. Not only was the week relaxing and restful and a nice break from the hectic city of Chicago, I came home with a new-found sense of peace. Yes, peace. Never have I been in a place that exudes such a calm and I have to say that it was the least place that I would have expected it to come from, especially regarding the loss of my brother and friend, David.
The last nine months have been a very long and winding road for our family, both as individuals and as a unit. Each one of us has our own family unit, and my brother left behind his family unit of two daughters and a wonderful wife, as well as sisters, brothers, our father, aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, wonderful inlaws, a load of good friends, and a church family who loved him more than we can fathom. Being with the kids last week was refreshing, comforting, and actually a lot of fun! They have his sense of humor and his love of life. To see the three of them together, pressing on in the midst of change and learning to step forward and still embrace life, love, and one another is remarkable. I am ashamed for the down times I have spent missing my brother when I see their progress with each other and their surroundings. They have taught me to look forward with the grace and understanding that I think can only come from accepting the situation and finding the peace and goodness that has transpired since.
I wanted to share this in hopes of inspiring someone today. Live life fully, without regrets. Sometimes we don't get a second chance to right the wrongs on our path, so please try to life as wholly and full of love as possible. For each situation that we endure, there is someone else in this world that is suffering even more than us. In life, there will be death and grief. Our faith in God and our love for our family and friends can be a source of great strength to press on.
Smile at a stranger. Say please and thank you often. Help someone carry their groceries. Feel the warm spring breeze and sit in the sunshine for a few minutes during your lunch break. Be kind and gentle and you will too find the peace that I have recently found.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Doggie Manners and a Yuppie Neighborhood
Last night, I took Sebastian for a long stroll around our yuppie neighborhood. No, I didn't take time to apply lipstick or anything other than yoga pants and my fleece before venturing out...but that is standard for me, and I am okay with it. Anyway, there is a certain house/apartment that we pass on every walk. We can't help but pass it, as it is RIGHT ON OUR STREET. Since the weather has been crazy and crappy (see previous blog), it was pleasant but chilly last night and we were enjoying it and minding our own business.
Now, each time we pass this certain house with the elderly couple in question, their two dogs decide to flip out and try to attack us, whether they are behind the glass of the windows or in the yard. To remind those of you that might not know me very well, my dog weighs 85 pounds. He likes other dogs, he really does. But, when we are accosted by dogs who carry the "little man syndrome", my dog sometimes acts aggressively (as I would if barraged by a short man with a loud voice). Last night was different though, and many of yesterday's events led up to my meloncholy mood in the evening. I had been thinking quite a bit about my mom and brother and their passing, wishing to God that just one more time I would be able to pick up the phone and call my mom and hear her voice...so, during our walk, I vowed to try to be nice and frienldy to each person that I came across, with or without dog attached. I don't know why I bother...
Let me just say this...living in a neighborhood that makes me feel like I have to spend an hour getting ready to take Sebastian out drives me completely WACKY. I come from the school of "treat others as you'd like to be treated", and therefore am generally a good soul that exudes friendliness. Huh. Not acceptable in this neighborhood. Some of the very same people that I see on a weekend evening, when I am showered with hair and makeup complete--they are friendly and nice at these times--look right past me when I sport my au natural look with a bun (Come on people, Pentecostals look like this every day of their lives and you don't judge them, do you???) *Please note, I am Christian, kind of Catholic, and enjoy makeup, cutting my hair, drinking alcohol, and wearing pants...I am not Pentecostal in any form.*
Back to the story--As I vowed to be nice, I thought about many things, and all of the reasons that I might become uptight as I pass this house that might not have anything to do with their ill-behaved shih tzus. So, I was going to be nice. I really, really was. As I approached, I saw the couple cuddling together on their couch and thought...wow...they are just people, too, and they are so cute; what is wrong with me? Then, out of NOWHERE.....we were attacked by their unsupervised dogs without any fair warning. I, of course, flipped out and caused my own dog to probably act more stressed than he really was (we both lost a year of our lives during this incident). And then, this cute and relaxed couple...the elderly and cute little old lady...tried to attack me!!! Seriously? She came out of her house with a BROOM...what was she going to do, HIT ME WITH IT??? Disgusted. Frustrated. Angry...dogs or not, cute cuddly old couple or not...not acceptable AT ALL. End of Story.
A note to all of you dog owners who inhabit city areas...watch your animals ALL OF THE TIME. Pretend they are kids who need training and discipline and GOOD MANNERS. Their actions reflect on you, you damn yuppies. Take a plastic bag with you on EVERY walk. You should know by now that nature will call whenever your dog needs to GO, and its common courtesy to pick up their poop--I don't want to step in it, nor do I want my dog to stick his nose in it. Next time you leave it in the vicinity of my house, I am going to pick it up and generously deposit it on your doorstep, or maybe next to your car so you step in it while wearing your $600 shoes. (Don't get me wrong, I have some shoes of that caliber as well and understand the need for their purchase.) Dogs need exercise. The City of Chicago has several dog friendly areas. You didn't know that? Well, you would have if you took your dog to the vet once in awhile, because they actually issue a tag that you put on your dog's collar so you dont get ticketed in these dog park areas. You can't get this tag without current vaccinations, etc. And, every vet in this city will give you a pamphlet and a lecture about how important doggie exercise is.
Morons. Just because you can live in Yuppieville and afford its perks doesn't mean that you're actually intelligent. Didn't your parents teach you any manners? You should be ashamed of yourselves for your ill-behaved pets and children.
Pick up the dog poop. Be friendly. Would it really be difficult for you to smile and be nice?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)