You might have noticed that I might have taken somewhat of a hiatus from blogging. We at the Butler house have had some mighty change going on. (You think I'm pregnant, don't you?) Last Sunday, Adam and I announced to our congregation that we will be pursuing seminary in August 2010. Didn't see that one coming, did you, Internet?
We will most likely be going to Chicago; North Park Theological Seminary to be exact. Adam is hoping to get two Masters while we're there: Divinity and Non-Profit Administration. And how crazy would that be to say, "My husband is a Master of the Divine." I feel arrogant just thinking it. Hopefully, I will be able to finish a degree while we're there, too. Maybe English or Pre-Med, what do you think? Ha, just kidding. That would be on the Worst Decisions Of My Life List.
That's where we are right now, planning to move from one ridiculously cold climate to another. I'll keep you updated on plans as they come.
Happy Wednesday.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Friday, September 18, 2009
Noonday prayers
Adam and I had a meeting at the Catholic unversity down the street around 12:30 yesterday, so he thought it would be cool if we would hit up noonday prayers with the monks right before our meeting. All the hip kids were doing it, so why couldn't we? Okay, truth be told, it was the monks, two other people, and us. Real cool. Anyway, we hit up noonday prayers and to be honest, I was kind of nervous. I had never done anything in the Catholic church before. If you don't know what's going on, its kind of intimidating. I was intimidated.
So, we walk in and kind of look around for a couple minutes, and one of the fathers walks over to see what we're up to, can he help us with anything? Adam was super confident and told him that we were hoping to join you for noonday prayers. Oh, great! the father said. Why don't you sit here, we're just about to start.
The bell rings on campus for noon, and the monks start to file in. There was so much tradition in the chapel, that I wasn't really sure what to do. Am I being disrespectful by standing up because I am a woman? There are no sisters here, I am the only woman. Am I being disrespectful by chanting with the monks? I am the only woman. Should I just sit down? Would that be disrespectful? I am a woman. I am the only woman.
I don't ever recall feeling this way or thinking like this. I didn't feel inferior because I am a woman, I just felt out of place. I felt like I should let the men do their thing, and then later I should get together with some women and we could do our thing.
I'm not sure if these were just or right feelings, if they were feelings or thoughts from the Enemy, if they were simply my mind trying to wiggle its way out of a first time experience.
Ladies -- have you ever felt this way? What was the situation that the feelings came from? Did you feel that your thoughts and feelings were justified?
So, we walk in and kind of look around for a couple minutes, and one of the fathers walks over to see what we're up to, can he help us with anything? Adam was super confident and told him that we were hoping to join you for noonday prayers. Oh, great! the father said. Why don't you sit here, we're just about to start.
The bell rings on campus for noon, and the monks start to file in. There was so much tradition in the chapel, that I wasn't really sure what to do. Am I being disrespectful by standing up because I am a woman? There are no sisters here, I am the only woman. Am I being disrespectful by chanting with the monks? I am the only woman. Should I just sit down? Would that be disrespectful? I am a woman. I am the only woman.
I don't ever recall feeling this way or thinking like this. I didn't feel inferior because I am a woman, I just felt out of place. I felt like I should let the men do their thing, and then later I should get together with some women and we could do our thing.
I'm not sure if these were just or right feelings, if they were feelings or thoughts from the Enemy, if they were simply my mind trying to wiggle its way out of a first time experience.
Ladies -- have you ever felt this way? What was the situation that the feelings came from? Did you feel that your thoughts and feelings were justified?
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
thinking...
could phone manufacturers come up with NOT annoying ringtones? Could they even exist? And can people PLEASE STOP PICKING THE MOST ANNOYING ONES? And if your ringtone is annoying, please pick up your phone RIGHT AWAY, right away. The other people within a confined space do not want to hear Big & Rich sing really loudly about saving horses, nor do they want to hear a techno dance groove. Just thinking.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Whelp, its official
So, remember when I said I had exciting news that I couldn't share yet? Well, now I can share it. Adam and I are now officially (said like o-fficially) the State Directors for the Not For Sale campaign. Crazy, I KNOW. We spent the better part of today hanging out in the Not For Sale tent at a music festival up here in New Hampshire, chatting it up with some of the staff of Not For Sale. It was pretty stinkin sweet. We had a few casual conversations with David Batstone himself, and in my mind I am trying not to think about the fact that he is who he is. I'm reading his book. That he wrote. That I bought it at a major bookstore. People have heard of him. Lots of people. Good thing I didn't freak out.
Some of you five people that read this here blog may be asking what this gig might entail. Basically, this means raising awareness about human trafficking, organizing events, and helping people find out how God has gifted them to fight the injustice of modern day slavery. This is new for New Hampshire, so it really is gonna be whatever we make it. Its one of the things I love about NFS. It is whatever we make it. If we want to pour 80 hours a week into this, we can do that. If we want to pour 10 hours a week into this, we can do that. We could not be more excited about this opportunity to get people involved in the fight against slavery.
Some of you five people that read this here blog may be asking what this gig might entail. Basically, this means raising awareness about human trafficking, organizing events, and helping people find out how God has gifted them to fight the injustice of modern day slavery. This is new for New Hampshire, so it really is gonna be whatever we make it. Its one of the things I love about NFS. It is whatever we make it. If we want to pour 80 hours a week into this, we can do that. If we want to pour 10 hours a week into this, we can do that. We could not be more excited about this opportunity to get people involved in the fight against slavery.
Friday, July 24, 2009
woah.
Last night, Adam and I had 22 of the CHIC students at our house for a reunion of sorts. To tell you the truth, I had no idea that our house could hold so many people. It was such a cool thing, to be able to use our house for its intended purpose.
Anyway, being that it is Friday, and being that Friday equals Things I Learned Day on this here blog, I thought I would share a little of what I learned at CHIC.
1. 20 hours on a bus as a 24 year old is very different than 20 hours on a bus as a 16, 17, or 18 year old. I may still be feeling the repercussions. I know I'm still young, but hey! I can feel pain, too.
2. There are days that watered down disgusting coffee is a glorious thing. Example: Stay up until 1am after an exhausting two day day (the one with the bus,) wake up at 7am, walk the bleary-eyed half mile to breakfast. Pour that cup of coffee and relish in the fact that it is chock full of caffeine, even if there is only powdered non-dairy creamer. Glorious.
3. Even more glorious than a watered down disgusting cup of coffee chock full of caffeine - that first cup of actual coffee after said gross coffee. WITH REAL CREAM!
4. Worshipping with 5500 other people is a little intoxicating.
5. Helping high school girls process the things they've learned is one of the biggest joys of my life. It could be my calling.
6. I HAVE to do something about the 27 million slaves in this world. It pisses me off that we have allowed this, as the body of Christ.
7. Valleys fill first.
8. Shane Claiborne is one of my favorite speakers. ever.
9. Watching high school boys react to a spoonful of Blazin' sauce from Buffalo Wild Wings is one of the funniest things to do. No, really, try it.
10. This is the verse God keeps bringing me back to: "He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God." Micah 6:8
I could keep going, but I have a husband and a dog waiting at home for me so we can trek down to Rhode Island.
Peace out.
Anyway, being that it is Friday, and being that Friday equals Things I Learned Day on this here blog, I thought I would share a little of what I learned at CHIC.
1. 20 hours on a bus as a 24 year old is very different than 20 hours on a bus as a 16, 17, or 18 year old. I may still be feeling the repercussions. I know I'm still young, but hey! I can feel pain, too.
2. There are days that watered down disgusting coffee is a glorious thing. Example: Stay up until 1am after an exhausting two day day (the one with the bus,) wake up at 7am, walk the bleary-eyed half mile to breakfast. Pour that cup of coffee and relish in the fact that it is chock full of caffeine, even if there is only powdered non-dairy creamer. Glorious.
3. Even more glorious than a watered down disgusting cup of coffee chock full of caffeine - that first cup of actual coffee after said gross coffee. WITH REAL CREAM!
4. Worshipping with 5500 other people is a little intoxicating.
5. Helping high school girls process the things they've learned is one of the biggest joys of my life. It could be my calling.
6. I HAVE to do something about the 27 million slaves in this world. It pisses me off that we have allowed this, as the body of Christ.
7. Valleys fill first.
8. Shane Claiborne is one of my favorite speakers. ever.
9. Watching high school boys react to a spoonful of Blazin' sauce from Buffalo Wild Wings is one of the funniest things to do. No, really, try it.
10. This is the verse God keeps bringing me back to: "He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God." Micah 6:8
I could keep going, but I have a husband and a dog waiting at home for me so we can trek down to Rhode Island.
Peace out.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
an amazing week
Last week, Adam and I went down to the University of Tennessee in Knoxville with about 35 of our high school students. Why in the world would I go down to TENNESSEE, Land Of The Humid Bugginess And The Humidity And The Bugs, Not To Mention The Vols in the middle of the summer? For one of the most transformative weeks that I have ever gotten to be a part of. Every three years, the Evangelical Covenant Church gets all of its high school students together for a week of goodness. We call this week CHIC, which stands for Covenant High In Christ. Clever, huh? Okay, more like old school, but it stuck when it was introduced back in 1956.
Taken from the Evangelical Covenant Church's website: "CHIC exists to be a catalyst that inspires Christ-like change, challenge students to see themselves as part of something bigger and inspire students towards the journey of following Christ. Through CHIC, we want to see students be a Christ-centered community (Genesis 28:3),confident in their relationship with Christ (Romans 8:38-39) and committed to doing justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly wih their God (Micah 6:8)."
Each morning had a different focus; Our Experience with World, with Others, with Self, and with God. Two directors from the Not For Sale Campaign joined us for the World day, and shared how we can become Backyard Abolitionists. God spoke to Adam and I on that day specifically, and our lives will never be the same. Stay tuned for some exciting announcements that I cannot share yet. But be ye not afraid, for they are exciting.
Anyway, that is not where I planned to go with this post. These high school students, 5200 to be approximate, became passionate about what justice looks like in this world. They began to understand the depths of who God is. They loved each other. Some had the chance to have the "call" affirmed. Some now know that New England is and will always be their mission, for it is quite the mission! I know I'm using cliche terms here, and I hate it, but I can't for the life of me come up with anything other words to describe these phenomena.
There are so many stories that I want to share, but they can't find the right way out yet. Again, be ye not afraid, for they will work their way through of my fingers and onto these keys. Until then, go in peace.
Taken from the Evangelical Covenant Church's website: "CHIC exists to be a catalyst that inspires Christ-like change, challenge students to see themselves as part of something bigger and inspire students towards the journey of following Christ. Through CHIC, we want to see students be a Christ-centered community (Genesis 28:3),confident in their relationship with Christ (Romans 8:38-39) and committed to doing justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly wih their God (Micah 6:8)."
Each morning had a different focus; Our Experience with World, with Others, with Self, and with God. Two directors from the Not For Sale Campaign joined us for the World day, and shared how we can become Backyard Abolitionists. God spoke to Adam and I on that day specifically, and our lives will never be the same. Stay tuned for some exciting announcements that I cannot share yet. But be ye not afraid, for they are exciting.
Anyway, that is not where I planned to go with this post. These high school students, 5200 to be approximate, became passionate about what justice looks like in this world. They began to understand the depths of who God is. They loved each other. Some had the chance to have the "call" affirmed. Some now know that New England is and will always be their mission, for it is quite the mission! I know I'm using cliche terms here, and I hate it, but I can't for the life of me come up with anything other words to describe these phenomena.
There are so many stories that I want to share, but they can't find the right way out yet. Again, be ye not afraid, for they will work their way through of my fingers and onto these keys. Until then, go in peace.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Vaca pics, day 1
Balanced Rock, Arches National Park
Here's the rest of the album (keep in mind that I haven't really had the ability to edit them yet...sorry)
ENJOY!
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Va-cay!!!
As I type this, my husband is mowing the lawn for the second time in a week. The grass grew a good 3 inches this week, and that is not one ounce of exaggeration. THAT IS HOW MUCH IT RAINED, PEOPLE! This was the rainiest June in the history of Manchester. Seriously, its in the record books.
Anyway, he is mowing now so that our yard doesn't look like a jungle when we get back from vacation. Ahh, vacation. Such a precious idea that has manifested itself into reality as of noon yesterday. We land in Vegas tonight at 11:12pm MDT. As I promised my mother, I will not blow it all on the slots. She did, however, tell me that as long as we had enough food and gas money to make it home, everything was fine. Vegas, here we come!!! Okay, truth be told, we are only spending enough time in Vegas to see the fountain at the Bellagio and sleep. We rented a car, so from Vegas, we have general ideas as to what we will be doing (visiting some pals in Boulder and then hit some National Parks) but as a whole, we're probably going to wing it. OH, THE POSSIBLITIES!
It is somewhat freeing to not know exactly where I will be 24 hours from now. I know that I will be the farthest west I have ever been, but other that that, Lord knows where I'll be. Freeing, I tell you. Freeing.
I'll be updating some from the road; pics, maybe videos...hang on to your seats, folks. Its gonna get crazy.
peace OUT.
Anyway, he is mowing now so that our yard doesn't look like a jungle when we get back from vacation. Ahh, vacation. Such a precious idea that has manifested itself into reality as of noon yesterday. We land in Vegas tonight at 11:12pm MDT. As I promised my mother, I will not blow it all on the slots. She did, however, tell me that as long as we had enough food and gas money to make it home, everything was fine. Vegas, here we come!!! Okay, truth be told, we are only spending enough time in Vegas to see the fountain at the Bellagio and sleep. We rented a car, so from Vegas, we have general ideas as to what we will be doing (visiting some pals in Boulder and then hit some National Parks) but as a whole, we're probably going to wing it. OH, THE POSSIBLITIES!
It is somewhat freeing to not know exactly where I will be 24 hours from now. I know that I will be the farthest west I have ever been, but other that that, Lord knows where I'll be. Freeing, I tell you. Freeing.
I'll be updating some from the road; pics, maybe videos...hang on to your seats, folks. Its gonna get crazy.
peace OUT.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Reality
This one is going to be heavy, so be prepared.
In the past week, I have had two good friends go through miscarriages. Since we have been married, I haven't had to deal with friends losing babies. This is the first time that I have been hit this hard by something like this. My heart BREAKS for these friends.
I think the reason it hits me so hard is that pregnancy is a very real situation for us now. It could happen any time no matter what precautions we do or don't take. I don't even like using terms such as precautions in regards to a pregnancy, like its swine flu or the common cold or AIDS. Those are things you take precautions against. Pregnancy is a gift, a child, a life. To lose a child, whether born or unborn, must be heart wrenching. My prayer is that these friends can live through the pain. I don't have many more words. I can't even begin to imagine...I just can't imagine anything. My prayer is comfort, peace, and closeness now more than ever.
In the past week, I have had two good friends go through miscarriages. Since we have been married, I haven't had to deal with friends losing babies. This is the first time that I have been hit this hard by something like this. My heart BREAKS for these friends.
I think the reason it hits me so hard is that pregnancy is a very real situation for us now. It could happen any time no matter what precautions we do or don't take. I don't even like using terms such as precautions in regards to a pregnancy, like its swine flu or the common cold or AIDS. Those are things you take precautions against. Pregnancy is a gift, a child, a life. To lose a child, whether born or unborn, must be heart wrenching. My prayer is that these friends can live through the pain. I don't have many more words. I can't even begin to imagine...I just can't imagine anything. My prayer is comfort, peace, and closeness now more than ever.
Monday, June 15, 2009
It actually doesn't work like that...
No, ladies and gentlemen, the appointment schedule does not run on a point system. If you are early one day, you do not get points that can then be deducted when you are late. Your last doctor may have let you operate on this 'point system' back in 1645, but this is modern day America. We work on a day-by-day system; clean slate, if you will. Oh, except if you are late every day (WHICH YOU ARE.) Please show up at your designated time slot. Thank you for your time.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
things I've learned this week:
1. There are some words that will always be funny, no matter how old I get.
2. If faced with the dilemma of giving up coffee, it would be a hard fight...even though I can't even finish ONE CUP.
4. Sometimes its fun to skip things. Even if it drives me crazy not to follow rules.
5. I might just have to put a 3 somewhere else so it doesn't feel left out.
6. I have a tendency to find myself in a rut. I just like doing the same things, and I'll be darned if you even try to introduce variety into my day. MAYBE I LIKE BEING BORING. sometimes.
7. I have discovered an affinity for using the caps lock key. Its fun, I promise. TRY IT.
3. The name of the news service Reuters is not pronounced 'rooters' or 'ruders' as in, "The rooters for the Yankees were severely disappointed this week when they were swept by the Red Sox," or "Those kids are so much ruder than your kids." Reuters is actually pronounced like 'roiders' as in one who takes steroids. (Oh, the things you learn while watching the West Wing with a smart husband.)
8. We rescued a very attached dog who does not like to cuddle, just pet and nuzzled. Oh, and she likes to pee when we leave. Oh, she also likes to poop in the special pen/kennel/area we crafted for her. Did I mention she likes to pee when we leave? We've had her for 2 years, but sometimes I want to kick the living...
I'll stop myself there.
2. If faced with the dilemma of giving up coffee, it would be a hard fight...even though I can't even finish ONE CUP.
4. Sometimes its fun to skip things. Even if it drives me crazy not to follow rules.
5. I might just have to put a 3 somewhere else so it doesn't feel left out.
6. I have a tendency to find myself in a rut. I just like doing the same things, and I'll be darned if you even try to introduce variety into my day. MAYBE I LIKE BEING BORING. sometimes.
7. I have discovered an affinity for using the caps lock key. Its fun, I promise. TRY IT.
3. The name of the news service Reuters is not pronounced 'rooters' or 'ruders' as in, "The rooters for the Yankees were severely disappointed this week when they were swept by the Red Sox," or "Those kids are so much ruder than your kids." Reuters is actually pronounced like 'roiders' as in one who takes steroids. (Oh, the things you learn while watching the West Wing with a smart husband.)
8. We rescued a very attached dog who does not like to cuddle, just pet and nuzzled. Oh, and she likes to pee when we leave. Oh, she also likes to poop in the special pen/kennel/area we crafted for her. Did I mention she likes to pee when we leave? We've had her for 2 years, but sometimes I want to kick the living...
I'll stop myself there.
(an hour and) seven minutes in (computer) heaven
On Tuesday, Apple announced their new line of MacBooks. So what, you say. Well the good news for anyone needing a new computer, like my husband and I, is that they also announced "end-of-life" price cuts for their old models. We had been looking at a mac for more than a year, but we just couldn't justify buying one when our other computer was getting us by. When Adam heard about this announcement from his friend Chase, we hastily made the decision to purchase one before the new model was shipped.
I drove about 30 minutes south down to the nearest Apple Store, got lost about 3 times on the way, and pulled up giddily to the mall. I wasn't sure what time the mall closed, so I begrudgingly stopped by Au Bon Pain to grab a delicious sandwich that I shoved down my throat pretty much whole while I twittered about the event. You will notice two Ahhhhhhhh!s. The first was an ahhh-why-must-i-have-the-urge-to-eat-at-a-time-such-as-this ahhh. The second was a revelation (i.e. ahhhh! i-am-about-to-buy-a-freaking-mac-ahhhh.) As I reflected on these events later that night, I wish I would have had more time to enjoy that sandwich. It could have been more delicious (romaine, tomato, cheddar, roasted red peppers, red pepper hummus all on whole grain bread.) It was one of those sandwiches that was über healthy and I kind of felt like a pretentious *ahem* eating it. Oh, it was fantastic...I think. But I digress. I finally get the whole thing down, and walk right on into the Apple Store. I have to say I felt kind of weird walking in there, never having had much experience with a Mac. Don't worry, I got over it quick. One of the things I love about Apple is their employees don't have to be straight edged. This guy named James with the biggest mohawk I have ever witnessed helped me out. He was super nice, and if you were supposed to tip your salesman, he would have gotten a big tip.
I ordered an upgrade to my memory and it took a while, so I browsed The World Wide InterWeb for a while, getting to know a Mac. Let me tell you, it was computer heaven. COMPUTER HEAVEN. Granted, it took them about an hour to finish upgrading, but I didn't mind so much except that I had to pee.
Now, as we speak, I am sitting at Starbucks, writing to you on a perfect, beautiful end-of-life MacBook Pro and computer life could only be a little better. Adam told me "Happy Birthday" when I got home. Happy birthday to me! I guess 24 isn't so bad after all.
Just had to brag a little. just a little.
Ok, I'm done.
I drove about 30 minutes south down to the nearest Apple Store, got lost about 3 times on the way, and pulled up giddily to the mall. I wasn't sure what time the mall closed, so I begrudgingly stopped by Au Bon Pain to grab a delicious sandwich that I shoved down my throat pretty much whole while I twittered about the event. You will notice two Ahhhhhhhh!s. The first was an ahhh-why-must-i-have-the-urge-to-eat-at-a-time-such-as-this ahhh. The second was a revelation (i.e. ahhhh! i-am-about-to-buy-a-freaking-mac-ahhhh.) As I reflected on these events later that night, I wish I would have had more time to enjoy that sandwich. It could have been more delicious (romaine, tomato, cheddar, roasted red peppers, red pepper hummus all on whole grain bread.) It was one of those sandwiches that was über healthy and I kind of felt like a pretentious *ahem* eating it. Oh, it was fantastic...I think. But I digress. I finally get the whole thing down, and walk right on into the Apple Store. I have to say I felt kind of weird walking in there, never having had much experience with a Mac. Don't worry, I got over it quick. One of the things I love about Apple is their employees don't have to be straight edged. This guy named James with the biggest mohawk I have ever witnessed helped me out. He was super nice, and if you were supposed to tip your salesman, he would have gotten a big tip.
I ordered an upgrade to my memory and it took a while, so I browsed The World Wide InterWeb for a while, getting to know a Mac. Let me tell you, it was computer heaven. COMPUTER HEAVEN. Granted, it took them about an hour to finish upgrading, but I didn't mind so much except that I had to pee.
Now, as we speak, I am sitting at Starbucks, writing to you on a perfect, beautiful end-of-life MacBook Pro and computer life could only be a little better. Adam told me "Happy Birthday" when I got home. Happy birthday to me! I guess 24 isn't so bad after all.
Just had to brag a little. just a little.
Ok, I'm done.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
why???
I didn't finish my coffee this morning. Although, that could be because THERE WERE CHUNKS IN MY COFFEE. It makes me really happy when there are chunks. And by happy, I mean ridiculously angry.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
not in a week...
I haven't been able to finish a cup of coffee in a whole week, and it is becoming unnerving. I used to chug it down and be ready for the second cup within 15-20 minutes. Now, I'm like a little old lady who is scared to let it touch her lips for fear that it might jump out and scare the living poo out of her. You know the face; the squinty eyes, the tight lipped mouth, just waiting for it to reach out and rip my lips off. What is this morning ritual coming to???
In a couple weeks, I will turn the big 2-4. Useless age. The only thing you get with 24 is slightly more clout. I am getting old, as evidenced by the coffee experience. I get to say that in one year, I can rent a car. That's pretty much it.
Hopefully, I can finish a cup of coffee when I get older.
In a couple weeks, I will turn the big 2-4. Useless age. The only thing you get with 24 is slightly more clout. I am getting old, as evidenced by the coffee experience. I get to say that in one year, I can rent a car. That's pretty much it.
Hopefully, I can finish a cup of coffee when I get older.
Monday, June 8, 2009
thought:
I can't chew a piece of gum for more than an hour and a half. just in case you were wondering.
Friday, June 5, 2009
Things I've learned this week
Wow, its almost been a week since I blogged. Yikes.
This hasn't been a particularly special week, but I learned and realized some things (shocking but true.)
1. When I want to type 'things,' it almost always comes out 'thinkgs' first.
2. When you are grossly overweight (i.e. 400 lbs, 5'11", 55.8 BMI) you cannot make fun of how fat or disgusting 'fat people' are. You are essentially making fun of yourself, but in an unintentional way.
3. When it comes time to procreate, I'm glad that Adam will be the father of my children. I cannot think of a more handsome, qualified, loving man to become a father, much less the father of my children.
4. There are certain things in life you cannot control. I feel like I've known this before, but there are times that it evades me.
5. Sometimes, the maturity of high school sophomores overwhelms me. Sometimes, the immaturity of sophomores overwhelms me, too.
6. Sushi with good friends is very expensive, but well worth it. (Yes, Adam had sushi. Shocking, but true.)
7. One day, I will replace my toddler's apple juice with pickle juice just to see the awesome reaction on that toddler face when he/she realizes something just isn't right.
8. I am created by God to love community, to need community, and to thrive inside of community. I feel like I've known this before, too, but there are times that it evades me as well.
9. I get emotionally attached to characters in television shows.
10. Apparently, I am the same way with TV on DVD as I am with cable, as described here (first paragraph only)
11. just kidding, I only learned 10 thinkgs this week.
This hasn't been a particularly special week, but I learned and realized some things (shocking but true.)
1. When I want to type 'things,' it almost always comes out 'thinkgs' first.
2. When you are grossly overweight (i.e. 400 lbs, 5'11", 55.8 BMI) you cannot make fun of how fat or disgusting 'fat people' are. You are essentially making fun of yourself, but in an unintentional way.
3. When it comes time to procreate, I'm glad that Adam will be the father of my children. I cannot think of a more handsome, qualified, loving man to become a father, much less the father of my children.
4. There are certain things in life you cannot control. I feel like I've known this before, but there are times that it evades me.
5. Sometimes, the maturity of high school sophomores overwhelms me. Sometimes, the immaturity of sophomores overwhelms me, too.
6. Sushi with good friends is very expensive, but well worth it. (Yes, Adam had sushi. Shocking, but true.)
7. One day, I will replace my toddler's apple juice with pickle juice just to see the awesome reaction on that toddler face when he/she realizes something just isn't right.
8. I am created by God to love community, to need community, and to thrive inside of community. I feel like I've known this before, too, but there are times that it evades me as well.
9. I get emotionally attached to characters in television shows.
10. Apparently, I am the same way with TV on DVD as I am with cable, as described here (first paragraph only)
11. just kidding, I only learned 10 thinkgs this week.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
I could be the Cookie monster.
I'm sitting here eating a snickerdoodle, one of my favorites. Its not the best I've ever had, but I don't come by them very often and I have to utilize every chance I get.
There is also a dessert reception going on at this very moment for a choir concert featuring choirs ranging from the 4th grade to the 12th grade. One reason I love dessert receptions is that everyone brings cookies. Can I just tell you that I love cookies? I always have, and I think chances are, I always will. They are just so stinking delicious. How can you not resist the chewy or crunchy amazingness wrapped up in 7 heavenly bites? I had to stop buying cookies from the store because I will eat them...all of them. Adam doesn't usually help. I could finish off the package in about 3 fell swoops, leaving a trail of crumbs the whole way.
Cookies have gotten a lot harder to enjoy since we made the conscious decision to evaluate our buying power. Are we unknowingly funding slavery by our purchases? Most often, when we buy chocolate, we are (granted, its in a small way, but everything helps.) A slave that was rescued from one of the cocoa farms in the Cote d'Ivoire said in a BBC interview that eating chocolate that came from Cote d'Ivoire was like eating his flesh. It kind of stuck with me. Long story short, we decided that we could not knowingly buy or eat chocolate that was not Fair Trade Certified. (There was a big push from the US Government to eliminate slavery from this process in 2001, and they say they are working on it. Statistics show that not much has changed.)
Most of the good cookies have chocolate in them! Oreos, Chocolate chip cookies, M&M cookies, brownies, mud pie cookies, the list could flow forever. Yikes...guess my new favorite cookie is the snickerdoodle. I was so happy when I saw it at the reception tonight. My heart rejoiced with all the anticipation of savoring every last morsel and nugget of the cinnamon goodness.
Just popped the last crumb in my mouth, and it was magnificnent. Thank you, Jesus!
There is also a dessert reception going on at this very moment for a choir concert featuring choirs ranging from the 4th grade to the 12th grade. One reason I love dessert receptions is that everyone brings cookies. Can I just tell you that I love cookies? I always have, and I think chances are, I always will. They are just so stinking delicious. How can you not resist the chewy or crunchy amazingness wrapped up in 7 heavenly bites? I had to stop buying cookies from the store because I will eat them...all of them. Adam doesn't usually help. I could finish off the package in about 3 fell swoops, leaving a trail of crumbs the whole way.
Cookies have gotten a lot harder to enjoy since we made the conscious decision to evaluate our buying power. Are we unknowingly funding slavery by our purchases? Most often, when we buy chocolate, we are (granted, its in a small way, but everything helps.) A slave that was rescued from one of the cocoa farms in the Cote d'Ivoire said in a BBC interview that eating chocolate that came from Cote d'Ivoire was like eating his flesh. It kind of stuck with me. Long story short, we decided that we could not knowingly buy or eat chocolate that was not Fair Trade Certified. (There was a big push from the US Government to eliminate slavery from this process in 2001, and they say they are working on it. Statistics show that not much has changed.)
Most of the good cookies have chocolate in them! Oreos, Chocolate chip cookies, M&M cookies, brownies, mud pie cookies, the list could flow forever. Yikes...guess my new favorite cookie is the snickerdoodle. I was so happy when I saw it at the reception tonight. My heart rejoiced with all the anticipation of savoring every last morsel and nugget of the cinnamon goodness.
Just popped the last crumb in my mouth, and it was magnificnent. Thank you, Jesus!
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
This weekend, we had our first non-parental family visit...Nana came to town. Nana is the hub's maternal grandmother. As a fairly newlywed who hasn't really gotten to know the family yet (these things take time,) I have to admit that I was a little terrified. I also have to admit that I am probably the worst housekeeper and for this reason, I was even more terrified. Anyone who knew me growing up knows that my problems as a teenager all boiled down to homework and housework. I mean, what teenager doesn't have those problems? Oddly enough, I never grew out of it. I still hate both. Anyway, since I am not a good housekeeper, I get really nervous when people come over. Mostly because I feel like they are going to know I spent the last six and a half hours frantically rushing around the house, trying to undo a few weeks of not dusting, sweeping, wiping, or tidying. When someone is going to stay the night, I get extra nervous.
So, Nana comes into town, and I feel like she is bringing with her white gloves and a bucket of cleaning supplies so she can disinfect the house before anything else. I know she actually isn't going to do these things, and I know it is ridiculous to think these things will happen. This is just the irrational fear in the back of my mind. *Not unlike the fear that shoes will protect me from the things that come to attack me once the lights go out...no really, I'm afraid of the dark and I wholeheartedly believe that shoes will protect me. Like I said, irrational for someone who has made it past her 7th birthday.
All in all, we had a great visit with Nana. I can safely say that she did not die from sleeping in our house, nor did she bring white gloves. I had a great time getting to know a little bit more about her and her past. I also got to hear what my husband was like as a kid, which was fantastic.
I can now say that I have gotten past the first non-parental family visit...whew.
So, Nana comes into town, and I feel like she is bringing with her white gloves and a bucket of cleaning supplies so she can disinfect the house before anything else. I know she actually isn't going to do these things, and I know it is ridiculous to think these things will happen. This is just the irrational fear in the back of my mind. *Not unlike the fear that shoes will protect me from the things that come to attack me once the lights go out...no really, I'm afraid of the dark and I wholeheartedly believe that shoes will protect me. Like I said, irrational for someone who has made it past her 7th birthday.
All in all, we had a great visit with Nana. I can safely say that she did not die from sleeping in our house, nor did she bring white gloves. I had a great time getting to know a little bit more about her and her past. I also got to hear what my husband was like as a kid, which was fantastic.
I can now say that I have gotten past the first non-parental family visit...whew.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
If any of you are looking for some good new music (or just plain good) check out Jake Armerding (www.jakearmerding.com) He has an album that just came out. He did a release party at Bethany on Sunday. It was a. ma. zing. Amazing. I guess you could call his music folk/americana/bluegrass/awesome.
Let me know what you think.
Let me know what you think.
Tears over dances.
So, the fact that we don't have cable seriously hinders my TV watching ability for any channel but ABC. I am really okay with this because if there is cable anywhere within a 100ft. radius of my body, its like someone abducts my body and inhabits it. I have no willpower. "What? You say I have been watching this Law & Order: SVU marathon for 6 hours? Hmm. Ooh, here comes another one. As soon as this one is over..." Needless to say, our apartment fell into serious disrepair. Also needless to say, it is a good thing we don't have cable.
Last night was the season finale of Dancing With The Stars (DWTS hereafter.) Hooray! It was the only thing on and the husband was at a Sox game (for staff team building...right.) No way that I'm gonna sit in silence or do actual housework. So, DWTS finale. I have watched the show a couple times, my faves being the three that end up in the finale. I think I've always wanted to be a dancer because if I'm not paying attention, my body will start contorting itself when people are dancing. Anyway, I'm watching the show, subconsciously contorting and when each of the dancers are done, the tears inevitable start. Why? Not sure. Maybe because they did a great job, maybe because I wish that was me, maybe because I am a female.
The end of the two hour show finally comes (not counting the hour re-air of the previous night's show) and I am laugh/crying for the contestants. Now, (SPOILER ALERT) the two that are left are Gilles Marini, an exotic model/actor who the ladies love (not me in particular, but whatever,) and Shawn Johnson, the 17 year old Olympic Gold Medal gymnast. If I had to pick a fave, she would be it. She was scaring me there for a couple weeks, but here she was in the finals! Of course, they draw it out for goodness knows how long, and the whole time I'm thinking "Gilles is gonna win. I want Shawn to win, but Gilles is gonna do it. You had a good run, Shawn...come on, WIN!" And then they announced Shawn was the winner...roll, tears, roll. I cried for a good 5 minutes. Oh, the humanity.
Last night was the season finale of Dancing With The Stars (DWTS hereafter.) Hooray! It was the only thing on and the husband was at a Sox game (for staff team building...right.) No way that I'm gonna sit in silence or do actual housework. So, DWTS finale. I have watched the show a couple times, my faves being the three that end up in the finale. I think I've always wanted to be a dancer because if I'm not paying attention, my body will start contorting itself when people are dancing. Anyway, I'm watching the show, subconsciously contorting and when each of the dancers are done, the tears inevitable start. Why? Not sure. Maybe because they did a great job, maybe because I wish that was me, maybe because I am a female.
The end of the two hour show finally comes (not counting the hour re-air of the previous night's show) and I am laugh/crying for the contestants. Now, (SPOILER ALERT) the two that are left are Gilles Marini, an exotic model/actor who the ladies love (not me in particular, but whatever,) and Shawn Johnson, the 17 year old Olympic Gold Medal gymnast. If I had to pick a fave, she would be it. She was scaring me there for a couple weeks, but here she was in the finals! Of course, they draw it out for goodness knows how long, and the whole time I'm thinking "Gilles is gonna win. I want Shawn to win, but Gilles is gonna do it. You had a good run, Shawn...come on, WIN!" And then they announced Shawn was the winner...roll, tears, roll. I cried for a good 5 minutes. Oh, the humanity.
Monday, May 18, 2009
"Slumdunder Mifflinaire"
Okay, this post has nothing to do with the title. Its just a phrase that is stuck in my head. Has been since Thursday.
I called the husband this afternoon, asked him what he was doing. Not an uncommon conversation, as many of you understand. Apparently he is in the process of assembling something for me. Wahoo! He won't tell me what it is and now I can't wait to get home, assuming it will be done today. Knowing him, he will probably tell me I can't go into the basement or the 2nd bedroom or something. He knows how much I hate restrictions.
Also, apparently I'm really good at guessing things that he gets me. Normally, this is a really good thing...except he's learning. Now, he won't give me one clue or hint to let my mind do its thing.
*On a completely unrelated issue, my best friend is having a baby really really soon...like she could be in labor right this very second. She was due on Saturday and I have been on edge every time my phone rings. I get really crazy when I miss a call. This, friends, is exciting stuff. Baby best friend, hurry your late self up. Thanks.
I called the husband this afternoon, asked him what he was doing. Not an uncommon conversation, as many of you understand. Apparently he is in the process of assembling something for me. Wahoo! He won't tell me what it is and now I can't wait to get home, assuming it will be done today. Knowing him, he will probably tell me I can't go into the basement or the 2nd bedroom or something. He knows how much I hate restrictions.
Also, apparently I'm really good at guessing things that he gets me. Normally, this is a really good thing...except he's learning. Now, he won't give me one clue or hint to let my mind do its thing.
*On a completely unrelated issue, my best friend is having a baby really really soon...like she could be in labor right this very second. She was due on Saturday and I have been on edge every time my phone rings. I get really crazy when I miss a call. This, friends, is exciting stuff. Baby best friend, hurry your late self up. Thanks.
Friday, May 15, 2009
Parental Rights
This morning on our local ABC affiliate's website, there was a link to a story about Daniel Hauser and his decision to refuse chemotherapy for Hodgkin's lymphoma. Daniel Hauser is 13 years old.
I bet you think I'm going to rail on this kid's parents for abusing or neglecting their child. I'm not.
Why is it that the people of this country cannot choose non-medical treatment? Forget the fact that this is a 13 year old child who is scared. Forget about the fact that he is citing religious reasons for this decision. Forget about the fact that his parents are being painted as parents who step aside and let their child govern himself (I'm not sure this is the case, but whatever.) Forget about the fact that this 'religious leader' is probably a nut job, a crack pot, a quack-a-roni. Forget these things and look at the rights of the parents.
When does the government have the right to step in and make choices for the parents? At what point is this acceptable? If the parents of this child simply abhor the idea of six months of chemo and then radation for their child, why is it not okay for them to choose a different route? Is this actually neglect or is this a strange grey area?
These people believe that chemo and radiation will be far worse than the cancer itself. In all actuality it may not be, but it very well could be. Does the law have to force them to comply with the recommendations of Daniel's doctor?
I don't know the answers to these questions. They are just flying through my head right now.
UPDATE: A Minnesota judge ruled Friday that 13-year-old Daniel Hauser must get medical treatment for cancer.
Questions are still flying, just in case you were wondering.
I bet you think I'm going to rail on this kid's parents for abusing or neglecting their child. I'm not.
Why is it that the people of this country cannot choose non-medical treatment? Forget the fact that this is a 13 year old child who is scared. Forget about the fact that he is citing religious reasons for this decision. Forget about the fact that his parents are being painted as parents who step aside and let their child govern himself (I'm not sure this is the case, but whatever.) Forget about the fact that this 'religious leader' is probably a nut job, a crack pot, a quack-a-roni. Forget these things and look at the rights of the parents.
When does the government have the right to step in and make choices for the parents? At what point is this acceptable? If the parents of this child simply abhor the idea of six months of chemo and then radation for their child, why is it not okay for them to choose a different route? Is this actually neglect or is this a strange grey area?
These people believe that chemo and radiation will be far worse than the cancer itself. In all actuality it may not be, but it very well could be. Does the law have to force them to comply with the recommendations of Daniel's doctor?
I don't know the answers to these questions. They are just flying through my head right now.
UPDATE: A Minnesota judge ruled Friday that 13-year-old Daniel Hauser must get medical treatment for cancer.
Questions are still flying, just in case you were wondering.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Wahoo!!
Hooray! Today marks my favorite day of the week. That's right. Wednesday. Love it.
Why do I love Wednesdays so much?
1. Have you ever said Wednesday like its spelled? It is so super fun. Go ahead, you try...I'll wait. ... See, wasn't that fun? p.s. I have to say it like this every time I spell it. every time.
2. From the glorious months of January to May, LOST is on. Oh, LOST, how I adore thee.
3. Every Thursday, I have the day off. That means that Wednesday is like a mini-Friday. Yessssss.
4. During the school year, there is church supper on Wednesday nights. I don't ever eat it, but the fact that it is there makes me happy. not sure why.
5. During the summer, Adam doesn't have to work on Wednesday nights. And that is awesome.
6. I drink one soda per week, at lunch time on Wednesday. Dr. Pepper, you are so magnificent and you burn my tongue and my throat in such a splendid way. We should do this more often. Wait, wait. no, we should not. You keep me up into all hours of the night and the burning might not be so healthy. Just a guess. Let's keep it to Wednesday.
7. Being that my mini-Friday is a Wednesday and no one else's is, there are less people at the places I want to go. Coffee? short line, less loud. Dinner? short line, less loud. Movies? short line, less loud. You see a pattern? Me, too.
8. When I go to sleep on a Wednesday, I know that I get to cuddle in the morning. yay! Anticipation. You can't stop it.
9. Most of the time, I don't shower on Wednesday mornings, because I have done so on Tuesday. That might gross some of you out, but its natural...don't worry. And from what I can tell, I don't smell. Back to the original point -- it takes me less time to get ready in the morning for work on Wednesday, meaning.......that's right, I get to sleep a little later! yeah!
10. Its just Wednesday. How can you not love a Wednesday?
Why do I love Wednesdays so much?
1. Have you ever said Wednesday like its spelled? It is so super fun. Go ahead, you try...I'll wait. ... See, wasn't that fun? p.s. I have to say it like this every time I spell it. every time.
2. From the glorious months of January to May, LOST is on. Oh, LOST, how I adore thee.
3. Every Thursday, I have the day off. That means that Wednesday is like a mini-Friday. Yessssss.
4. During the school year, there is church supper on Wednesday nights. I don't ever eat it, but the fact that it is there makes me happy. not sure why.
5. During the summer, Adam doesn't have to work on Wednesday nights. And that is awesome.
6. I drink one soda per week, at lunch time on Wednesday. Dr. Pepper, you are so magnificent and you burn my tongue and my throat in such a splendid way. We should do this more often. Wait, wait. no, we should not. You keep me up into all hours of the night and the burning might not be so healthy. Just a guess. Let's keep it to Wednesday.
7. Being that my mini-Friday is a Wednesday and no one else's is, there are less people at the places I want to go. Coffee? short line, less loud. Dinner? short line, less loud. Movies? short line, less loud. You see a pattern? Me, too.
8. When I go to sleep on a Wednesday, I know that I get to cuddle in the morning. yay! Anticipation. You can't stop it.
9. Most of the time, I don't shower on Wednesday mornings, because I have done so on Tuesday. That might gross some of you out, but its natural...don't worry. And from what I can tell, I don't smell. Back to the original point -- it takes me less time to get ready in the morning for work on Wednesday, meaning.......that's right, I get to sleep a little later! yeah!
10. Its just Wednesday. How can you not love a Wednesday?
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
An open letter to all the other drivers on the road (especially you, Mr. blue Chevy Silverado):
Cutting me off is never a good idea, it just makes me angry. If your circumstances require this abominable action (which yours, blue Chevy Silverado, did not) please, please go the speed limit (Mr. Chevy Silverado) once you are in front of me. If the speed limit is 55, please do not go 50 or 45 or even 40. Please go at least 55, because we are in the fast lane and that is what the fast lane is for. Fastness.
If you choose not to do this, I can't promise anything. Okay, so I probably won't flip you off or yell at you, I may just give you a hand throw-up and a dirty look that you probably won't see. But know that it makes me angry, and I'm not really a fan of being angry. Plus, it makes me look bad when I tell my husband not to be angry because you cut him off. So, please, all other drivers, don't cut me off.
Thanks.
If you choose not to do this, I can't promise anything. Okay, so I probably won't flip you off or yell at you, I may just give you a hand throw-up and a dirty look that you probably won't see. But know that it makes me angry, and I'm not really a fan of being angry. Plus, it makes me look bad when I tell my husband not to be angry because you cut him off. So, please, all other drivers, don't cut me off.
Thanks.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Shhh...
Don't tell Adam, but I kind of like listening to WEEI, a sports talk radio out of Boston. He left it on in my car and I was just too lazy to turn it off. Again, don't tell Adam, but I really started to enjoy it.
I am becoming more and more like my mom, more than I ever thought possible. This isn't a bad thing, Mom, not a bad thing at all. Happy Mother's Day (a day late).
I am becoming more and more like my mom, more than I ever thought possible. This isn't a bad thing, Mom, not a bad thing at all. Happy Mother's Day (a day late).
Bonnie (our 4year old puppy who is probably not a puppy anymore) had a bad day on Saturday. We got up early (for a Saturday) and went for a walk with some friends. We both brought our dogs and set out on a leisurely walk around the pond. Bonnie pulled the whole time, which does not make Adam happy. She then thought it would be a good idea to pace back and forth across the trail. Also not making Adam happy. About a quarter of the way around the pond, a beautiful tan husky comes sauntering our way.
Now, Bonnie has always gotten pretty excited when she sees other dogs. We've always attributed it to her liking them. I am learning that it is a false attribution.
Husky, saunter, etc. What does my dog think would be a good idea?? A lunge and a bite.
By the way, I wonder what goes through a dog's head when it lunges at other dogs.
"They will love me more if I take a chunk out of that beautiful dog that is way bigger than me"
"Mmmmm..."
or, my favorite, "Maybe this dog will want to have fun."
Luckily, no contact was made, but it was super scary. Looks like my dog gets to be cooped up for the rest of her existence. Oh, the life of a dog owner.
Now, Bonnie has always gotten pretty excited when she sees other dogs. We've always attributed it to her liking them. I am learning that it is a false attribution.
Husky, saunter, etc. What does my dog think would be a good idea?? A lunge and a bite.
By the way, I wonder what goes through a dog's head when it lunges at other dogs.
"They will love me more if I take a chunk out of that beautiful dog that is way bigger than me"
"Mmmmm..."
or, my favorite, "Maybe this dog will want to have fun."
Luckily, no contact was made, but it was super scary. Looks like my dog gets to be cooped up for the rest of her existence. Oh, the life of a dog owner.
Friday, May 8, 2009
As I walked out of Panera this morning with my breakfast splurge of the delicious bacon egg and cheese ciabatta, an older gentleman went out of his way to hold the door open for me.
It got me thinking. Where has this tradition gone? I don't really remember the last time anyone under the age of 50 (besides my husband) held open a door. I know I'm a young, able body that can handle opening a door myself, but it really does make a gal feel nice.
It got me thinking. Where has this tradition gone? I don't really remember the last time anyone under the age of 50 (besides my husband) held open a door. I know I'm a young, able body that can handle opening a door myself, but it really does make a gal feel nice.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
The finer things
Oh, FailBlog. How I love thee.
( failblog.org ) if you haven't had a chance to wander over there.
*Some of you might want to turn on the G-rated option, it can get graphic.
( failblog.org ) if you haven't had a chance to wander over there.
*Some of you might want to turn on the G-rated option, it can get graphic.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Give it a go.
Ok, here goes the typical 'first post' post. Actually, nevermind. I'm just gonna give it a go. (While I was having breakfast this morning, I was compiling a list of things to blog about in my head. Funny how when I actually sit down to blog, all the ideas evaporate. Yeah...funny.)
I was roaming through Hannaford yesterday afternoon and I ran into someone that goes to our church. She was picking up a bottle of wine and gave me the halfway embarrassed grin, I guess because I caught her redhanded. Ha. There's this idea that if you are pastoral staff (or are married to pastoral staff) you don't drink or play cards or gamble or go to bars or dance or listen to anything but Michael W. Smith. Oh, friend, how wrong you are. But thats another post for another day (until I actually sit down.) We had communion at church yesterday, and I made a comment that I wish it wasn't so taboo to have actual wine during communion. It was one of those times that I didn't know I thought that way until it came out of my mouth. I was a little surprised, but I went with it.
The reason I wish it wasn't so taboo is because the death of Jesus isn't this sweet, happy thing. Grape juice, on the other hand, it pretty sweet and sometimes happy. I think it would present an interesting theological piece to the equation. This tradition comes from Passover, in which bitter wine is always served (or supposed to be, anyway.) We need to remember the suffering, the pain, the sacrifice in order to know the goodness and the fullness of his death. Will a bitter wine help me with that? Not sure, but it could.
I was roaming through Hannaford yesterday afternoon and I ran into someone that goes to our church. She was picking up a bottle of wine and gave me the halfway embarrassed grin, I guess because I caught her redhanded. Ha. There's this idea that if you are pastoral staff (or are married to pastoral staff) you don't drink or play cards or gamble or go to bars or dance or listen to anything but Michael W. Smith. Oh, friend, how wrong you are. But thats another post for another day (until I actually sit down.) We had communion at church yesterday, and I made a comment that I wish it wasn't so taboo to have actual wine during communion. It was one of those times that I didn't know I thought that way until it came out of my mouth. I was a little surprised, but I went with it.
The reason I wish it wasn't so taboo is because the death of Jesus isn't this sweet, happy thing. Grape juice, on the other hand, it pretty sweet and sometimes happy. I think it would present an interesting theological piece to the equation. This tradition comes from Passover, in which bitter wine is always served (or supposed to be, anyway.) We need to remember the suffering, the pain, the sacrifice in order to know the goodness and the fullness of his death. Will a bitter wine help me with that? Not sure, but it could.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)