KCalla's Blog - Life in Alaska

Ok, I'm done blogging on this page!

2008-11-01T07:38:00.002-07:00

So long... Farewell....

With helping with our hospice website, Facebook, and two other message boards I frequent, there is absolutely NO reason to try to maintain this blog.

Take care!

How many pots do you use?

2008-10-21T09:06:00.005-07:00

I just finished making chicken soup for my family tonight and 2 patients. One of the patients has a sinus infection so maybe this will help him.
How CAN I dirty 5 pots making ONE pot of soup!

Whole chicken - one pot
Barley - one pot
carrots, celery, onion - one skillet
crock pot - oops not big enough so dump into the big pot but first boil the chicken broth and angel hair noodles in that...
potatoes - ANOTHER pot!

And then I throw it all in together. You can just IMAGINE my kitchen! Off to wash the pots... Have a good day!

All together now...

2008-10-14T07:50:00.004-07:00

Huddle with me and sayBRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!

Temperature this morning 5°F!

Ok, another great quote!

2008-10-07T07:24:00.002-07:00

Waving Hello!!

This is good. Found it on Mark Hollis' facebook.

It's a shame to have enough religion to know who to dislike, but not enough to be nice.

Two more quotes I found on his page. This man always makes me smile and he's the BEST speaker/preacher I have ever heard!

'Diplomacy is the art of saying, 'Nice doggie' . . . until you can find a rock.'

'If things get any worse, I'll have to ask you to stop helping me.'

Feeling Grateful!

2008-10-04T08:28:00.002-07:00

Twice now I've had my car to the shop - related to fender benders. Both times Seekins Ford has given me a free rental. I never ask why but I'm thankful! I'm driving a Ford Focus and enjoying the front-wheel drive on these icy roads!

I enjoyed the ladies conference SO much last night. It refreshed my soul! It's such a beautiful thing to gather with women and listen to His Word. The speaker is Lori Carouthers from Texas and she was as funny as Chonda Pierce! She spoke on "Traveling Light" and having Peace in the Journey. So good.

There was a lady from our church standing behind me during opening prayer - and I tell you, listening to her pray brought tears to my eyes and gave me goosebumps. She has shared her testimony before of what God has brought her out of (her life was a wreck for many years) and she is just FILLED with the love of God! During snack/visit time I went up to her and my word... that lady talked NON-stop with a grin on her face the whole time! Cracked me up! I had plenty of time to eat my plate of snacks! She wanted me to share her room at the hotel with her but I knew I'd get NO sleep! ROTFLOL

Besides, Katie was home baking chocolate chip cookies for me when I got home.

I LOVE WEEKENDS!

I am such a quote lover.

2008-10-01T07:25:00.003-07:00

I don't know why, but I love reading good quotes and pondering them throughout my day. I ran across a good one this morning!

We should be taught not to wait for inspiration to start a thing.
Action always generates inspiration. Inspiration seldom generates action.
~Frank Tibolt

I've cancelled my year and a half long membership at the athletic club and am waiting for my eliptical to arrive. Right now I'm riding on inspiration because I'm not doing any action! ;o) It snowed...and the days are getting shorter. Time to get some ACTION going!

Welcome to Winter!

Email triumphs over speaking to a real person!

2008-09-21T10:28:00.002-07:00

We've been calling our cable company this summer to get our cable line buried. Each time I called I was told we are *on the list.* Last Thursdays call revealed we are now on the list for Spring 2009! I was irked so sent the following email to Human Resources, Admins, and Complaint/Praise Dept.

We had cable tv installed in November 2007. We've been waiting all summer for them to come and dig it in through our driveway. I've called 3 times in the last 6 weeks. Last night they tell me it's scheduled for Summer 2009!!!

Please get this in if you can! We've been unable to use our circular driveway since LAST November!
Then included contact info.

I had the nicest, lengthiest response on my cell phone. They are coming! Monday! Apparently this guy's supervisor from Anchorage emailed him immediately to see "what was going on up there in Fairbanks!" Yaaay!

And to think we always try to get past the automated to speak to *real* people! I'm certainly pleased! Or will be if it truly gets done on Monday!

What happens when you clean the pantry??

2008-09-20T21:42:00.002-07:00

You find marshmallows and rice krispie cereal and make rice krispie treats!!! A family favorite.

And you also "know" (for once) what you need when you head to the grocery store!! Where did those THREE containers of Progresso Garlic/Herb bread crumbs come from???

And....we're down to ONE can of tuna! *gasp* AND...we CAN'T go to Sam's for more because every single person in the state is stocking UP at Sam's with their Permanent Fund Dividend!!!

Rick tried to get fuel for 2 of the houses he's building and they told him it would be 10 days...they are so backed up with everyone suddenly ordering fuel!!

Definitely a GOOD thing for those living in Alaska!!

Silly Quote

2008-09-18T21:06:00.005-07:00

This made me laugh when Katie sent it to me. And yes, aren't we all a bit like this?

"I have CDO, it's like OCD only in alphabetical order
like it should be."

Another Gadget!!!

2008-09-15T19:10:00.002-07:00

I've been using the furminator on Molly, our beagle. And today when I vacuumed...it only took 2 "swipes" before my green light came on telling me the vacuum wasn't picking up any more dirt/hair!!! (I love my Kenmore Progressive vacuum with this intelliclean feature.)
This is a GREAT tool for removing dog hair!! In Alaska, they sell it at Fred Meyers.

Closing a chapter in my life

2008-09-14T06:08:00.006-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, dear sweet Bean came up from Anchorage and picked up my piano! My Dad purchased that piano when I was 4 years old. I enjoyed it for many years and even played the piano at church for many years but that chapter of my life is over! Now... I play the radio! It sounds even better!

Be blessed Bean and make beautiful music on that piano along with your beautiful singing. And don't drive Jen and Alaina NUTS ok!

She paid for this piano in a beautiful way! She sang to us a song (opera), she sang at a competition (and won!) in Anchorage just recently. It was beautiful, standing outside on a beautiful fall day and listening to her beautiful voice. I just love this sweet, smiling young woman!!

And thank you for packing it up and treating it so carefully. I wonder how hard it will be to get it up the long flight of stairs in your house!! Don't hurt yourself!

After the vacation...

2008-08-10T20:20:00.006-07:00

Life does get right back up to hectic speed! Katie left for Georgia for a March of Dimes Youth Conference. Hot and humid. Makes her realize she wants to NOT attend college in the south or the east. Good. West coast is closer! This summer she's been to D.C., Denver, Washington twice, Oregon with the family, and Atlanta. Good for her and good for me to see that life "home alone" with my hubby is going to be A-OK!!

Every SINGLE day since we've been home from our vacation, it's rained. At least that is what it has felt like. The fair is over so maybe we'll get some sunshine! In fact, in between the rain showers today, the sun has shone! I keep promising Molly a walk but then I look out and it's pouring. What a rainy summer it's been. So glad we had the warm sunshiney days in Oregon!

Yesterday, Katie, Molly and I went to Angel Rock so she could prepare for her AP History biome project. Although it was overcast, it didn't rain while we were there and we had a GREAT time! So FUN!

Molly sniffed every tree and rock. She was in dog heaven. Me? I LOVE spending time with my daughter. She's so fun. I'm beginning the "last year" as she begins her Senior year in High School. I'm so excited for her future. But I am treasuring every precious moment I have with her.
Hope we have a long Indian summer. Ok, it's stopped raining, the sun is shining...time to take a walk with Molly!

Vacation to Oregon

2008-07-26T19:03:00.001-07:00

What a wonderful vacation! We had a great time in Oregon. The first 4 days Rick was with us while we visited 3 colleges in Portand. Concordia, Portland State, and Univ. of Portland (our favorite in Portland.) The campuses were absolutely beautiful! The vegetation was lush and the buildings old. We did lots of walking, enjoying the beautiful weather and just relaxing and being together.
We "touristed" all over Portland but the highlight was definitely meeting my longtime "internet" friends, Al and Dotti Coon. I just love these guys. We had a wonderful evening with them at the Newport Bay Resturant in Portland.

After getting Rick safely on the plane Friday night, Katie and I "navigated" with our GPS over to Trader Joes and Kohls. The Vancouver area where Al and Dotti live is just beautiful! Hmmm. Since Dotti "feels" like a sister - I'd LOVE to move there some day!

The next morning we took off for Corvallis to go to a concert our friends, Jimmy and Holly's son Kerry was in. That kid can PLAY the guitar! Beautiful day! So good to be sitting next to Holly and Jimmy on the grass. I've sure missed them since they left Alaska.
I cannot begin to tell you how PRECIOUS our time was with this family. I've known them since they were first married. Jimmy was a hair designer and no one could cut my hair like him. Holly and I have spent many many days together. I miss her SO much. The boys have grown in to great young men. Great family. They had us for dinner and we went out to eat several nights. Other than visiting colleges, we hung out with them! And laughed. Jimmy is just a riot!
We had a "girls" day out at the coast and it was "just like the good 'ol days" with Holly. We also met some longtime Alaskan friends for chowder in Newport but I FORGOT to take their picture. Love you Jack and DeVonna!!

Corvallis has the "most favorite" college! OSU - and we also visited Western Oregon Univ. I sure would love to have Katie going there and living close to Jimmy and Holly. Our last evening there, they made us an amazing dinner of chicken, "amazing potatoes" and absolutely FABULOUS grilled vegetables! Katie and I have cooked up several batches since we got home. Just can't get enough.
The greatest highlight of that evening though was a drive to Jimmy's work, Knife River Trucking, where he drives a 54-wheeler (yes, bigger than an little ol 18 wheeler!!!!) and hauls pre-stressed concrete beams that are 180' long! He actually drives the back of the truck from the cab. Amazing. And no, Cameron is probably not going to follow his father's footsteps. He'll probably be a famous soccer player!!
It was so fun to learn about Jimmy's work and it was a beautiful drive! Thanks guys! We had a GREAT time with you. You'll be dear friends forEVER!!

Beautiful weather. Beautiful country. And most importantly - GOOD FRIENDS and Good Memories!

PURE TERROR also known as...

2008-07-04T13:23:00.005-07:00

Pincher Bug

And we hate them. (No that's NOT to strong of a word!) We've been known to pull over franctic and screaming when driving as one crawls up from the front of the dashboard towards us. I unlovingly abondoned my Sweet SIL (picture bleached blonde hair/and monster black bug), years ago in the frozen food section of Foodland as one crawled out of her hair. She stood there screaming and I moved back laughing and feeling panicked and unable to help!
Here's today's local online story about these bugs and the comments below had me Laughing Out Loud!! Katie thinks that some Alaskans have NOTHING to do on the fourth of July to be responding with so many comments! And so...if you're not busy today...read this STORY.

Continuing Saga...1 hour later.... I'm BACK! I hate nature! I hate nature! I was outside brushing Molly and thought I felt something in my pants but no.....
Came back in the house and felt something DEFINITELY crawling inside my pants! It was ONE OF THOSE bugs!!! I got it out and Katie very bravely got it on a notebook and out the door! I can't believe it!

Update on kitchen...

2008-06-29T08:38:00.003-07:00

I've not posted the "end result" of our remodel because it's not done! It's painted, fixture replaced, and new dining room table and server are here. Katie's in charge of window treatments and wall decorating and she's off galavanting here and there. Once it's finished... I'll put up a picture. Hopefully before Christmas? I'm in no hurry.

I found a good tasting fruit!!

2008-06-29T08:32:00.003-07:00

The little doughnut peaches at Fred Meyers are sweet, juicy and tasty!! Of course at $3.49/lb they are a real treat! Most summers I try different fruits from the local grocery stores and find them picked way to soon and once they ripen, tasteless and mushy but these are delicious! It's not easy to stop at just one! And I'm sure Rick would love to have them sliced and covered with heavy cream but I'm not sure that will happen!

Happy Dance!

2008-06-27T07:54:00.004-07:00

This made me smile!

Video

There is also a new one out. Fun to watch all the people having fun doing the happy dance!!

Make the most of THIS day and love those around you!

Thanks Kathy for sharing this!

Cooking at Camp

2008-06-15T16:34:00.007-07:00

We had a great girls road trip down to Anchorage and spent two nights with Jen and Alaina.

Nothing like a road trip with Katie!!

Monday through Friday morning, Katie was a camp counselor (9 girls) and I joined Pastor Greg and Karen Newell and Pastor J.R. Markle (chief dishwasher and boy were those pots shiney!) to cook at camp. We worked long hours from early morning and well into each evening. It was a LOT of work... but mostly, it was FUN! We fed 125 kids 3 meals a day. That's a lot of food and dishes but the camp has an amazing kitchen and Jen has a very well thought out menu! Here's some pictures (click to see larger):

Karen and Greg preparing bacon and pancakes.

See the steam?!?

J.R. and Greg shining the pots - they had continual smiles on their faces even though their feet were TIRED!!

Karen and I hang on to the pot while Greg "fluffs" those mashed taters!

I'm grateful for this week. It was a good break from my "regular job" and my heart was so encouraged by the kindness, fun, and comradrey during this week. And the counselors, leaders, and kids - what a GREAT group!! I gave my heart to God at camp when I was 9. It's an amazing time for kids.

Some parents pack up their troubles and send them off to summer camp. Not these kids. They are a blessing!

Baby Robins have Arrived!!

2008-06-05T20:46:00.004-07:00

Rick leaned a ladder up against the house this spring and a robin quickly built her nest on top!

Well, the robins have arrived so soon he'll be able to use his ladder again. It's been SO fun to watch the mama make her nest and hatch her eggs. She's become accustomed to our presence.

Remodeling Time!

2008-05-07T08:27:00.015-07:00

My wonderful son is taking down the 8 year old, *dated* fruit basket wallpaper and the blue paper in the dining room and kitchen! I love this kid! Here's some pictures. I'll put up some *after*...but who knows when we will be done! He will need to texture (to match the rest of the house) and paint and replace upper cabinets. Quite a job... one I've been wanting to do for several years! LOVE MY SON!!

Of course.. you know...this means we are thinking about selling the house! This type of work never gets done until we're ready to move! This time will be to a much smaller house! Yaaay! Less housework!

Gearing up for a busy summer!

2008-05-04T07:52:00.003-07:00

We'll be doing a lot of driving to the airport this summer to see Katie off and pick her up. She has 7 trips (D.C., Denver, Atlanta, Washington twice, church camp 2 times) and a family vacation to Oregon. That gives her 3 weeks home this summer. I guess Rick and I will be enjoying practicing the "empty nest" routine! We do love that all these trips have been given to her. She has studied hard and applied herself all through school and this is simply God's favor and blessing over her! I'm sure the 12 weeks of summer will fly by for all of us.

Here's a great "father/daughter" picture:

Ok...life fell apart.

2008-05-01T05:42:00.006-07:00

As you can tell by my lack of posting! Time to get back on track and start blogging again!

Mid-April I had a serious health issue "crop up." Shingles. A disease that usually affects "older" people (oh no!) that have previously had chickenpox. I spent 2 weeks with increasing pain on my back and side to the point where I could hardly make it through the day and got very little sleep at night. Finally, the rash developed and it could be diagnosed! If you EVER get shingles, get on an anti-viral medication! It stops the development of the rash and really really helps the pain!

We've completed our hospice Patient Care Volunteer training and we have a great group of new volunteers "ready to be placed!" They are all wonderful people and I'm so glad to know each and every one of them!

Today is May Day! Life will return to normal although the weather has been acting very much like winter still. 4"s of snow yesterday! Do I live in Alaska or what?

We also have a new director at work and we are really enjoying her kindness! Our former director has moved on to be the local United Way director. She was an amazing lady too and was instrumental in getting our new building built and us all moved in!

So, since I'm "back in the saddle again," I'm actually going to start swimming again! Yaaay! This year is going by so quickly but we are looking forward to school ending and summer sunshine!

This is my co-worker's last day before vacation... so glad I'm feeling better before I start wearing both "hats."

Springtime in Alaska

2008-04-07T07:40:00.004-07:00

A very nice priest of the local Episcopal church sent out this photo. He labeled it:
2008 Beaver Church Office in early April - I found it amusing and so TRUE to Alaskan Springtime! After a few days of 50° temps and snow melting like crazy, we have dropped back to the teens with snow. Am I smiling? Sorta. I'm so ready for warmth and sunshine!
Beaver, Alaska is located in the Interior. You can read more about it HERE.

My days have been busy with hospice training and regular work hours. The family is doing well. Ben and Char are home from their vacation to Idaho and Washington. Chloe, their cat, tried her hardest to destroy their home but Katie spent many hours "visiting" and pacifying her.

Life is good.

And here's ANOTHER cool video

2008-03-14T08:13:00.002-07:00

I guess today is my day to receive GOOD videos from friends! Thanks Tina.

Elderly woman witnesses to man trying to rob her:

Video - A Brain Scientist's Stroke Experience

2008-03-14T07:54:00.003-07:00

Neuroanatomist Jill Bolte Taylor had an opportunity few brain scientists would wish for: One morning, she realized she was having a massive stroke. As it happened -- as she felt her brain functions slip away one by one, speech, movement, understanding -- she studied and remembered every moment. This is a powerful story about how our brains define us and connect us to the world and to one another.

Time Mangement

2008-03-12T07:55:00.008-07:00

I've been listening to Randy Pausch, a professor from Carnegie Mellon who is fighting pancreatic cancer. (his website) He's well known (was even on Oprah) for his "Last Lecture" - Achieving Your Childhood Dreams which you can view on YouTube. I'm especially enjoying his lecture on Time Management. Lots of wisdom and humor in these videos. You don't want to miss them.

Rick is safely in Las Vegas for his conference and called us from *poolside* as he enjoyed the 70° "summer" weather.

Katie and Molly have invaded his side of the bed so I'm plenty toasty.

Work is busy and I'm enjoying the new routine of having a real office! I actually hung my first picture! Also attending a prayer conference the next 3 nights at my church. (I will survive my sweet hubby being away...)

Through a link on Randy's page I also found a quote that just made me laugh, so I'll share.

"Don't be so humble - you are not that great." - Golda Meir

Want to join me in prayer?

2008-03-08T18:07:00.003-08:00

I've been praying for this little girl for quite some time now...

www.carepages.com Search: HealingHallie

Thought you all might like to join me. She's just as cute as a BUG and God has layed her on my heart.

More Pictures

I'm already a member of CarePages because of a friend's son. It only takes a minute to register. Hallie's mom is really good about updating.

Tidbits

2008-03-06T06:53:00.002-08:00

* Living the life of computer/phone issues and learning new programs at work, in the midst of regular patient care. I still have hair on my head so haven't torn it ALL out!

*I'm doing well in my routine of getting the house in order, dinner prepped, and out the door by 6:30 to swim and head to the office! I've almost been swimming for one year now! It's just my *thing* and I love it so much. Got my hair cut yesterday and my hairstylist said my hair was in excellent condition. Probably the lovely swim cap I don!

* Molly the beagle has an ear infection. I'm sure you needed to know that.

Ok, so life is crazy and go go go but who's ISN'T!!! Hope all is well in your life! If I think of something interesting to post... I will!

Oh! I hope to go to First Friday this week to see my friend Susan's photography display! I need some beautiful photography for my bare office walls. And HER photography is gorgeous!

A Moving Experience

2008-02-26T17:30:00.001-08:00

I'm VERY anxious to move in our new building. We had Phone and IT training today. Thursday morning we "take up residence" in our new building! My desk is HUGE for my small office but Katie helped me arrange the furniture and I'm happy! More flat space to spread out papers I guess!
Here's our new building. This is a HUGE improvement over our 40 year old rental building where the floors are so UNlevel the receptionist practically has to hold on to the edge of the desk to keep from rolling backwards!! And... after 5 years I have an office instead of working from home!

Still a bit chilly!

2008-02-06T09:57:00.000-08:00

-47° But you won't find me hangin' around in the treetops! My floors are mopped and it's getting light out so I'm hitting the road!
Ice Fog and ALL!

*click on picture to see larger*
Those look like two COLD eagles!

Thou Shalt NOT Whine!!!

2008-02-05T08:23:00.000-08:00

Therefore I shall leave you with one word.

Long long winter.

2008-02-03T07:32:00.000-08:00

Good day to you! I haven't been posting much simply because it's the middle of winter and just getting out and about in these cold temps takes much of my energy.
Work is busy with a hospice couple that I've been with since July, going through many changes. I'm spending lots of "free" time at the hospital with them.
We are also moving into our new office the end of next month - no more working from home in my PJ's!!
We finally completed the painting of Katie's room. We discovered that the problem with it needing so many coats is that the base was clear and it should have been a white base. If you click on the "painting picture" you'll see her smiling. After the FOURTH coat...not so much smiling! It's done though!

Here's a picture of the wall along with the "bright spot" of the amaryllis that is blooming profusely! Yaaay! Life!

I also had a friend recovering from shoulder surgery so I fixed lots of meals and did lots of physical therapy as she recovered at our home.
Other than that, life... just getting through the cabin fever time!
Hope all is well at your house!

Makes me wonder...

2008-01-15T18:01:00.000-08:00

Why my last name isn't Jobs! What an innovative company!

I just watched the video of the new MacBook Air today and I'm just drooling!

My little 12" Powerbook is still going strong after 2+ years with nary a blue screen of death, no virus and system updates to run, and still has a great battery life! Sure would like one of these new fandangled ones though. Hmmmm.... maybe my sweet hubby is getting tired of his (stuck at his desk), old Dell desktop! VERY spendy though!

What to do when it's 40 below

2008-01-14T17:14:00.000-08:00

Always follow your dog's initative...

That's certainly what I did today! It is FREEZING outside! Hopefully it will be over tomorrow. Heat wave: -20!!!

Feel Great in 2008!!

2008-01-10T09:22:00.000-08:00

I received this quote from a 84 year old gentleman this morning. Started my day with a laugh. Of course...his emails always do! At 84, his computer time is ALL fun time! Thanks Red.

"Health nuts are going to feel stupid someday, lying in hospitals dying of nothing."

A Wonderful Teaching on Cross-Cultural Communication

2008-01-06T03:31:00.000-08:00

This was one of the most informative and enjoyable presentations on communications I have seen.

Father Dr. Michael Oleksa’s presentation on the Iceberg Theory of Communications. It was very enjoyable and so nice to be able to see it from the convenience of my computer. Father Michael Oleska's teaching is available through Windows Media Player. I was unable to open it through Firefox. I *think* you must use the Explorer browser.

This is a Windows Media Player presentation and I had to use Explorer to access it. Firefox would not open for me. Log onto mms://wm.uaa.alaska.edu/ansbs/AKHumForum.wmv and watch the hour long video presentation by Father Oleksa on communication.

Archpriest Michael J. Oleska, Alaskan Orthodox missionary for nearly three decades, completed his doctoral work in Church History and Patristics at the Orthodox Theological Faculty in Presov, Slovakia, in 1988. Upon completing a year of research and teaching at Moscow's St Patriarch Tikhon Theological Institute, he was elected Dean of St Herman's Seminary in Kodiak, Alaska, in 1996. He is also the editor of Alaskan Missionary Spirituality.

Just a little dopey!

2007-12-27T10:27:00.001-08:00

After a wonderful Christmas with our family and my dau-in-law's wonderful folks, I awoke to the CRUD the "day after." Yesterday I never got out of my jammies and was miserable all day!! Today I have a patient to take to and from chemo and have a friend flying in from Georgia so I rummaged through my rarely used medicine box and found something that will dry me up...make my nose run (now is THAT an oxymoron?) and ease the aches. Well, it seems to be working although I'm feeling a little dopey! Maybe it's just a passing thing?? Could make for an interesting day though! Hope you all are having a wonderful Christmas break! Watch out for a ditzy looking woman trying to drive her car to and from today! I will wait until it's light out at least!!

The Best Part of Christmas

2007-12-14T17:28:00.000-08:00

Is spending time with your children. We are so happy and blessed to see THEM happy, blessed, and leading such exciting lives. Nothing is more precious than our families.

May your Christmas be a time of loving your family and friends.

Most days...

2007-12-13T22:38:00.000-08:00

This is me! Hope your Holiday preparations are going well! Molly, our beagle, ate an entire bag of foil wrapped Hershey's miniatures. And survived!
Peanut butter balls are finished and distributed therefore Katie and I are now able to "give up sweets." We caved a few times...
Presents are all purchased. Now we just have to find the tape!!
Hope you are all doing well and remembering that Jesus IS the reason for the season!

Time to Reflect

2007-12-12T11:36:00.001-08:00

"The question you always have to ask yourself is:
'What's behind the things we see happen?'"
~Traditional Chief Peter John

Chief Peter John was born in Rampart and lived to be 102 years old. He lost his parents when he was young and was sent to St. Mark’s Mission School in Nenana where he learned reading and writing. He lived a subsistence lifestyle and married Elsie Silas when he was 25. Peter and Elsie had ten children and adopted another four. Today they have three daughters of their children living. Peter was a disciplined student of his own culture and he has also studied the Bible. He held the post of Village Chief on and off since 1945 and he was a central figure in the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act. In the early 1990s, he was named Traditional Doyon (Chief) for the Interior Athabascans, a post he will retain for life (from The Gospel According to Peter John, 1996).

Chloe! Get DOWN from there!

2007-11-25T10:14:00.000-08:00

See why our Christmas decorating will be done AFTER our grand-kitty goes home?

I found her in the dryer and stretched out on a kitchen towel on the kitchen counter. Nothing is off-limits to "our" grandkitty!

Thanksgiving - A Favorite Holiday

2007-11-24T08:53:00.000-08:00

There's nothing like having 4 days to relax and enjoy family! We've also been watching our grand-kitty Chloe rule the roost while she stays with us. Molly didn't drool... she just CHASED Chloe for the first 2 days! Finally, they both calmed down and Chloe has found her "spot" on top of the table in the living room on the soft blanket Katie gave her.
We also had cable tv installed yesterday by one very "sniffly-sick" (but nice) installer. I refused to take the remote he was handing me and asked him to lay it on the shelf. After he left, I used a Purell wipe and cleaned that thing! The funny thing about our new "cable" is that channels 20 and up are not working!! I'm looking forward to the Holiday music channel...although I have 209 Chrismtas songs on my ipod so why do I care!?!
The temps here have been wonderful - 40°! Katie finished putting up the outdoor lights yesterday. This is a FIRST for our home and I know our neighbor across the street (for the last 23 years) who is a Christmas light lover, is thrilled!! Here Amy, this pic's for you... just in case you haven't seen them yet! MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Well, I'm off to vacuum and go swimming. Tonight's turkey...Alfredo maybe?
Hope everyone is having a relaxing Thanksgiving weekend!

Love these people!

2007-11-18T07:44:00.000-08:00

We learn to do something by doing it, there is no other way. ~John Holt

Here's the latest group of Patient Care Volunteers, newly trained for hospice service. What a great bunch (2 are missing from this photo.) After spending 36 hours of training together... well lets just say we have all bonded. I am SO excited to have them as part of the "hospice team." Thanks guys for your commitment and friendship! And thanks Amanda for the bunny ears! LOVE YOU ALL!

How do we get OFF this hamster wheel?

2007-11-09T07:29:00.000-08:00

I always think that with the coming of the snow and the darkness of Alaska winters, life should slow down! Not so at this household, this winter. Along with celebrating birthdays, we've been in the hamster wheel going like 90 around here. We're living out of daytimers and computer calendar programs. For me, rest, good food, swimming, and water keep me going and I try to make all those things happen. Katie on the other hand... has the unending homework and activites. 8 hours of sleep a night are not happening for her. She has very little free time for doing the "fun stuff" like... hanging the Christmas lights outside and playing tennis. I worry about her. And I wonder how our lives will change when she's off to college in a year and a half. I keep hearing of people starting their Christmas shopping and I am just NOT ready to add that to my list! My hospice training is over Nov. 17th and then I'll take a deep breath and try to regroup.

Not EVERYone in this house is busy though...we have a dog that struggles with boredom when we are to busy to play with her. Although... life can be soooo good for her when my son comes over.

We will be babysitting our "grand-kitty" Chloe in a few days while the kids go to Seattle and Las Vegas for Thanksgiving. I'm SURE I'll have to put up pictures of Chloe.

I'm hoping we don't end up with "soggy carpet." You see, when Molly gets nervous... she drools. It's gross. And it will take some adjustment for Molly when Chloe arrives to rule the roost. Fortunately Chloe is de-clawed and will be a "JOY" I'm sure to have in our home!

And so, remember to take a deep breath and take care of yourself during this upcoming holiday season. The one thing I'm doing for myself is a Beth Moore Bible study - "A Woman's Heart - God's Dwelling Place" She is an amazing teacher and I love it. It's drawing me closer to Him. There really IS life in God's Living Word.

Tears of Laughter...

2007-10-26T21:08:00.000-07:00

I'll never forget the first time I saw this. I about wet my pants I laughed SO hard. To this day... I generally get tears of laughter in my eyes.

Everyone needs HUMOR like this in their lives!!! I know everyone has probably seen this...but it's a fun one to watch!!

Alaskan Recipe

2007-10-25T07:19:00.000-07:00

This was in last night's paper. I've seen this dish at potlaches and fund raisers but have never chosen to take any. It is truly a sought after and delicious dish for those that have eaten it through the years. For my Weight Watcher friends... I do NOT know what the points would be per serving on THIS recipe!!

Wonderful Women!!

2007-10-24T17:24:00.000-07:00

My sweet daughter-in-law and I flew to Anchorage and were joined by her Mama. We had 3 FULL days of Youth Convention (800+ kids), eating, shopping, did I say eating... and enjoying each other's company. What a brave girl Char is, hanging out with both her Mom and Mother-in-law. I LOVE these two! It was so fun to watch their giggling and laughing and love for each other. No wonder I have such a great daughter-in-law - she has GREAT parents!

Here's the *only* picture of us taken on the last morning as we sat on the floor and *rested* before a full day of shopping. Boy did we shop!! We are a bit frazzled looking...but still having fun!

The Art of Re-Gifting.

2007-10-13T05:51:00.000-07:00

Have you ever received a gift and loved it so much you wanted to share it with someone you love? I received this beautiful flower arrangement and was afraid it would freeze (18° out) before I was able to get it home so I headed over to my daughter-in-law's office and "regifted" it to her. They are beautiful aren't they! Well come Friday evening, she shows up at the door with these still beautiful flowers to "regift" them to me! This young woman is the very person that "taught" me that re-gifting is fun and ok to do. This gift has come full circle and now my home is filled with the wonderful scent of fresh flowers! Anyone want me to pass them on to you?!? *smile* I do love flowers!
Thank you Sonia for the most beautiful flowers I've ever received... you are a delightful friend.

Oh to be available and do the right thing... although difficult.

2007-10-07T19:31:00.000-07:00

I recently made this video to use at our hospice training. For me, it was the most difficult and precious time as a hospice volunteer - a time for me to put down my prejudices and grow. Thank you Chris. I still miss you SO much.

Ahhh It's a Mork and Mindy Saturday!!

2007-10-06T11:51:00.000-07:00

It's the first snow of the year!! Not a heavy snow, but it is coming down!! Katie's sleeping on the couch after a Key Club Lock-in at school last night. Molly's sleeping on her bed under the blanket and *snoring.* My last Saturday home before hospice training begins for 6 weeks. PERFECT day!!
Tonight we pick up Jen at the airport, head to the Lemongrass Restaurant for a girls night out... and then enjoy a visit with her until Tuesday.

Whelp, Nanu, Nanu!!! (First season is the best.)

School is WORK!!!

2007-09-28T09:45:00.000-07:00

Well, Katie was up until 2 am this morning finishing this French Project. (And up for school at 5 am.) I think it's absolutely fabulous and deserves an A+!! It represents "life in a french apartment building and all that they are doing."

Here are some closeups. All the words are in French but they include all the *necessary* sentences. Can't read a ONE of them!! (click on pics to see larger)

All together it looks like this. And the counter behind it? Well it's just a MESS! One I was more than happy to "help" clean up for her as she walked bleary eyed out the door to school!

My little girl.

2007-09-27T05:49:00.000-07:00

She's ALWAYS sweet, funny, and a blessing to have around - what little she's around... with school, tennis, volleyball, and youth group.

Next month she turns 17. Impossible!! I sure do love her.

Ever have a snarky day?

2007-09-25T21:18:00.000-07:00

And you just feel like doing this?

Vacation page and review

2007-09-19T10:24:00.000-07:00

Here's a page of pictures and review of my trip to California for those that are interested.

California Trip

Ya Gotta Have Friends....

2007-09-18T08:27:00.000-07:00

Every once in a while, a person comes briefly into your life and they change your whole outlook on life. This woman inspires me to laugh and love.

Here is her latest email from Honduras where she works in the Peace Corps. Quite a gal. Interesting read.

Hey Guys,

Hmm. Let’s see here. Last month, we were “in feria.” To be “in feria,” one must embrace the oddities and bizarre rituals that the San Marcos fair has to offer. This includes but is not limited to: watching bulls gore soccer players in an attempt to be the last man standing (read: alive), betting on cock fights with tio Olman (Olman's uncle), riding the extremely questionable fair rides (imagine all of the ones from the States that were banned in the 70s and then add 40 years of wear and tear without proper maintenance), and, of course, bumping and grinding your way through the streets during “carnaval” the “dancing extravaganza” that is San Marcos. . .

My favorite, by far, was watching fellow volunteer, Gabe, attempt to get his “groove thing on” during carnaval. I think that Olman and I have never laughed so hard before in our lives. You see, Gabe is a gangly gringo that has absolutely NO rhythm whatsoever (fact). In this very “macho” Honduran culture, Gabe is frequently seen sporting a women's, over-sized straw gardening hat. . . ENuf said. Anyway, Olman’s sister Silgian took pity upon Gabe and danced with him for nearly 20 minutes. (She later tells me that he confessed that he only knows how to dance to (brace yourself here) rap music!?!) After that, Gabe braved the streets in search of new dance partners. It was fabulous because most of the girls took one look at him and thought “oooohhhhh, he‚s got dollar$!!!” Poor Gabe only lasted one song max with each of his Honduran partners. . . Thank goodness money isn’t everything!

Right. This month's theme is “Stupid Things To Do When Bored.”
1. Hitch Hike. On the whole, flagging down a ride with someone is not so dim-witted in my area it's actually quite economic and MUCH faster than the bus (sure nearly every driver has a can of beer wedged in between his crotch alongside his .22 but who's to judge?). It's just when they stop to give you a lift and FAIL to mention the vital little piece of information that they're going to be filling the truckbed with firewood that irks me.
Now, instead of being the cream filling of an “Annie Oreo” in the cabin (drunk Honduran male + Annie + drunk Honduran male), I decide to take my chances on the tailgate. Can we say “stupid?!” Needless to say, I STILL have bruises in VERY unfortunate places (making it extremely difficult to sit down without wincing) and falling from a moving vehicle definitely puts me in that “clumsy” category that borders on “crazy.”
2. Vaccinate Rabid Dogs. This month was “vaccinate your mangy mutt” here in San Marcos and the surrounding communities. I have been lending my highly unqualified and somewhat sketchy services to the cause and, thus far, have miraculously managed to remain “bite-free” despite the fact that my partner in crime “Tigre” had a substantial junk of meat taken off his calf just the other day. . .

3. Collect random things. Yuki and I have a new pet - his name is “Sal” (Salt) and he's a 6‚" long black slug that lives in our kitchen making frequent excursions to the pila and living room. Every day is a new adventure with Sal because you never know where you‚re going to find him ˆ in the door jam, on the counter next to the fruit bowl‚ from your big toe, etc.

4. Write your own Musical. Yuki and I have recently discovered new and rather odd ways to entertain ourselves in our spare time. . . It all began with the release of RENT on HBO. I explained to Yuki one night that musicals are complete crap because NOBODY in real life bursts out into song at every emotional turning point. She laughed at my obvious insensitivity to the “arts” and then it just became like second nature to burst into song to say “goodnight” or “dinner‚s ready” or “have a good day!” Our choreography is getting pretty good ˆ I'd say we'll be ready for Broadway in a couple more months. . .

6. Cross a river after Hurricane Felix. . . Sure, it was only considered a “tropical storm” by the time it reached my town but one must use their “better” judgment when attempting to brave “makeshift” bridges of log and cable haphazardly intertwined. . . About midway through, Junior and Alexander (my tag-along buddies) decided that they couldn’t stand it anymore, and started crossing from the other bank. That would be mistake #1 excessive weight. The second problem was that my tennis shoes have lost all traction and fall into the category of SUPER SLIPPERY when wet. Anyway, to make a long story short, the wee little sticks could not support our weight and gave way. For some bizarre reason, I made the split decision that if I chucked my camera away from me (we’re talking spiral football throw here), I could magically rebalance my weight on the cable and save myself from drowning. . . Obviously, I was wrong. . . Anyway, by the time Junior found the camera, it had snails growing on it and I was so far downstream at this point, I didn’t really care. I hoisted myself up on the bank with the aid of what can only be described as Honduras version of poison ivy and have been suffering the consequences ever since!!! Needless to say, I will not be crossing rivers for a while nor sending pictures!
(Thus, you should cherish the pics in the attachment all the more!!!)

So that’s it for now - just wanted to mention that I am NOT working for the NGO “Bridge of Peace” anymore as they have unfortunately decided to shift their focus from the students in the rural school system to the district administrators and employees. However, I am joining forces with a new NGO called Enrich the World to continue working in the schools.

Ok. Better run. My crazy neighbor Paco (who suffers from dementia) is screaming at me from the internet window as I believe he is lost (he lives 2 blocks away) and appears to be sporting only his tighty whities. . . I just keep telling myself that I am a master at crowd control.
Later Taters,
Annie (former Hospice Patient Care Volunteer)

Hearing complaints...

2007-09-17T06:12:00.000-07:00

... that I'm neglecting my blog. I'm back from a WONDERFUL vacation to California and heading into a busy work time (my co-worker leaves on vacation Wed.) so I've not posted much. I'll update about my fun trip soon! Take care!

Sure Sign of Fall

2007-08-28T07:08:00.000-07:00

At 5 a.m. this morning, Molly was baying out the window at this mama moose and 2 calves. At 6 a.m. it was light enough to snap their picture (although not very clear.)
This is a sure sign that winter is just around the corner! We are definitely back in "routine" as Katie has to be to school at 6:30 every morning for French 3. She was able to rearrange her schedule though so she gets out of school at 10:40, free to come home! Makes for plenty of time to study and lay in the sunbeam with Molly!

First day of school - a Junior

2007-08-20T08:12:00.000-07:00

Isn't she pretty
Truly the angel's best
Boy, I'm so happy
We have been heaven blessed
I can't believe what God has done
through us he's given life to one
But isn't she lovely made from love ...

Say Cheese! And Thank You!

2007-08-16T06:06:00.000-07:00

I am so privileged to work with this kind doctor through our hospice organization. We just learned that our volunteers would now have to pay $59 for their yearly TB tests and so...I approached Dr. Carroll to see if he could help us. He graciously said, "We'll do it for free at my office." Such a kind man. He cares so much for the patients we both serve and is so supportive of our volunteer organization.
I stopped by to talk to him, and knowing that he is a wine connoisseur I guessed he was also familiar with cheese. I asked him if he knew of Vincent cheese (Katie and I LOVE it) and he said, "No, where is it from?" I said, "Fred Meyers!" He rolled his eyes at me, smiled, and offered me some fresh peaches on the counter.
I picked up two packages at Freds and wrote a thank you for his help with our TB test concerns and am delivering it today.

It's from Holland by the way... and it's FABULOUS with thinly sliced apples. Try some!

Making a difference in a young person's life.

2007-08-16T05:56:00.000-07:00

Funny thing happened yesterday... Katie's summer job ended and a package arrived at our door yesterday from her boss. It was a pewter paperweight with "What would you attempt to do if you knew you could not fail?" written on it. Very nice. It's also the second one she's received! Her favorite teacher in middle school gave her the same gift 3 years ago. So now there's two on our bookcase. It's just such a blessing when people "speak into" our children's lives.

I just called... to say... I LOVE YOU!

2007-08-11T08:03:00.000-07:00

Are you singing along with Stevie Wonder yet? It's a "favorite" song on my Ipod!!
I read the following, in a Journey's (Bereavement Newsletter) last night:
As a grief therapist, I've found that most "unfinished business" concerns expressing or hearing the words that matter the most: "I love you." We torment ourselves for not having expressed our love or not hearing those words from the one who has died. Even if we know we loved and were loved, we want to hear our love expressed.
It's a lesson for all of us to remember - to tell the people in our lives that we love them.
And so... you can sing it to them along with Stevie, you can leave notes around, and you can practice saying it SEVERAL times a day to those you LOVE!!! The more you say it, the easier it is!! And fun too!

Little things make a difference.

2007-08-09T08:00:00.000-07:00

Last week I was with a couple at the Cancer Treatment Center. The doc was teasing the gentleman that he really needed a trim. I offered to give him a cut and Dr. C. looked at me like "and do you know how to DO that?" I reassured him that I had just given my husband a haircut that morning. Yesterday, this gentleman called me and reminded me that he had an upcoming appt. with the doc and still needed a haircut!
When I arrived at their home, we transfered him in to a wheelchair and his wife held his head upright and I began. There were giggles and laughs and fun comments on how this haircut would turn out. We all started singing "oldie" songs from our past. We were having so much fun singing, I had to keep bringing myself back to what I was doing!! The cut turned out WELL! In fact, we rolled him over to a mirror and he kept gazing at his reflection - looking pretty pleased with himself! WHEW!
I was thrilled to do such a "small thing" that would help him to feel so much better about himself. He's a young man (47), great sense of humor, and this couple has wormed their way deeply into my heart. I love them and their kids a LOT!
Today...we go to the doctor again. I sure hope Doc "comments" on his new do!
Thank you Lord, for allowing me to bring a smile to this man. Thank you for allowing me to be in their lives.
Today I get my own haircut. I'm going to try to convince Scott, (my 24 yr old hairstylist) to take the hospice training so people can get "designer" haircuts! Good idea doncha think?!?

Wedding Anniversary - 4 years!!

2007-08-09T06:00:00.000-07:00

There is one couple that has influenced my OWN marriage so much in the last few years. I've watched them the last four years as they loved, laughed, played, and cared for each other. It's been beautiful to watch. I've learned (from these kids!) that one of the most important *Rules* of marriage is to have "fun" and to never let that fade away. My sweet daughter-in-law, Char, has brought so much into our lives. We are SO blessed to have our kids in our lives and to watch them with joy in our hearts and lots of laughter too!

Happy 4th Anniversary Young'uns! We love you!

Health & Humor adds to life!

2007-08-04T06:42:00.000-07:00

Rick and I have started on a new liquid health supplement that was "sold" to us by a friend of ours. The first night, after we received it in the mail and started using it, our friend called to see how it was going. I was talking about the packaging, how soon it came, how it tasted, etc. and my DH said, "Tell Nick, I ripped 2 phone books in half today on accident!" (He's such a nut.) Nick told his wife and I could hear her in the background saying, "Well you tell Rick that I was leaping tall buildings with a single bound today without even trying!!" Such goofs.

I am interested to know if this product "works!" I, on the other hand, have no such spectacular results so far except that I had plenty of strength to swim non-stop for an hour yesterday!
Life is good at our house. We are enjoying the "winding down" of summer and since the Fair has started... the weather seems to recognize that fact and is cooling off too. Love it.
Katie's playing tennis and still working, my big thing this weekend is taking some fresh catnip over to my "Grand-kitty" Chloe Callahan. Love being a grandma!

Most FUN airplane flight I ever had....

2007-07-26T17:40:00.000-07:00

Have any of you ridden on Southwest Airlines? I had the pleasure a few years back and was highly entertained. Thinking back to that flight.... I googled SW airline flight attendant messages and found some funny ones. Hope these bring a smile to you. And DO CHOOSE Southwest Airlines if you have a chance!!

*******************************

- Occasionally, airline attendants make an effort to make the "in-flight safety lecture" and their other announcements a bit more entertaining. Here are some real examples that have been heard or reported:

- "There may be 50 ways to leave your lover, but there are only 4 ways out of this airplane..."

- Pilot - "Folks, we have reached our cruising altitude now, so I am going to switch the seat belt sign off. Feel free to move about as you wish, but please stay inside the plane till we land ... it's a bit cold outside, and if you walk on the wings it affects the flight pattern."

- As the plane landed and was coming to a stop at Washington National, a lone voice comes over the loudspeaker: "Whoa, big fella. WHOA!"

- From a Southwest Airlines employee.... "Welcome aboard Southwest Flight XXX to YYY. To operate your seatbelt, insert the metal tab into the buckle, and pull tight. It works just like every other seatbelt, and if you don�t know how to operate one, you probably shouldn't be out in public unsupervised.

-In the event of a sudden loss of cabin pressure, oxygen masks will descend from the ceiling. Stop screaming, grab the mask, and pull it over your face. If you have a small child traveling with you, secure your mask before assisting with theirs. If you are traveling with two small children, decide now which one you love more.

- Weather at our destination is 50 degrees with some broken clouds, but they'll try to have them fixed before we arrive. Thank you, and remember, nobody loves you, or your money, more than Southwest Airlines."

- "As you exit the plane, please make sure to gather all of your belongings. Anything left behind will be distributed evenly among the flight attendants. Please do not leave children or spouses."

- "Last one off the plane must clean it."

- And from the pilot during his welcome message: "We are pleased to have some of the best flight attendants in the industry ...Unfortunately none of them are on this flight...!

- Heard on Southwest Airlines just after a very hard landing in Salt Lake City: The flight attendant came on the intercom and said, "That was quite a bump and I know what ya'll are thinking. I'm here to tell you it wasn't the airline's fault, it wasn't the pilot's fault, it wasn't the flight attendants' fault.....it was the asphalt!"

- Another flight Attendant's comment on a less than perfect landing: "We ask you to please remain seated as Captain Kangaroo bounces us to the terminal."

- After a real crusher of a landing in Phoenix, the Flight Attendant came on with, "Ladies and Gentlemen, please remain in your seats until Captain Crash and the Crew have brought the aircraft to a screeching halt up against the gate. And, once the tire smoke has cleared and the warning bells are silenced, we'll open the door and you can pick your way through the wreckage to the terminal.

- Part of a Flight Attendant's arrival announcement: "We'd like to thank you folks for flying with us today. And,the next time you get the insane urge to go blasting through the skies in a pressurized metal tube, we hope you'll think of us here at US Airways."

Rick's Birthday Celebration

2007-07-22T07:09:00.000-07:00

I sure love this guy! We had a great time last night at the Pump House Restaurant with our family.
We celebrated Rick's birthday with all of our favorite people! US - the Callahan Clan!
It was a beautiful, sunny, evening and the food was delicious. The company was even better!

Char was our official photographer as I left my camera behind. Of course she had us pose for the "traditional" family picture.

Here's a picture of "us girls."

And one Mother/Daughter photo.

Organizing Day!

2007-07-18T20:35:00.000-07:00

Ok, my desk wasn't as bad as this picture...
but I sorted my piles today and then filed away the piles! I found the Community Health Aide list for AK that I thought I had misplaced - lots of old phone numbers, etc. etc. So much of my work is done in the field and in my car that I have to reign things in sometimes. Updated and updated... everything! I even went through our "personal stuff/info" notebook and updated everything!

It feels SO good to know where everything is. I ready to start organizing the Hospice Fall training. Traveling Training is coming together. My resources are restocked in my "patient bag." Volunteer files still need updated...but that has to done at the office when there is no receptionist. I may go in some evenings next week to get them up to date.

After weeks of "feeling behind" in paperwork...it sure feels GOOD!!! I think it was the swimming this morning that gave me the "can do" for 8 hours of paperwork!

Maybe I should go tackle Rick's piles. But I'm sure he knows EXACTLY what is in every pile...

Holding a Stranger's Hand

2007-07-15T16:28:00.000-07:00

Yesterday and today myself and hospice volunteers have been sitting with a man who is alone up here and at the end of his life. His family is coming from out-of-state - arriving this evening. In the mean time, we sat with him, held his hand, held the phone to his ear when loved ones called, and cared. This morning I received a call from a dear friend of his and it was precious to me to learn a bit about this man, who now is no longer a stranger. This man was the foreman for the "Earthworks" Amelia Earhart project of Stan Herd. Beautiful art.

I'm so grateful for the volunteers that said yes and have been there. My heart is full this afternoon. I do love the work of Hospice.

Heavy Heart

2007-07-11T07:23:00.000-07:00

Recieved a call last night that a dear man, who just opened Harley's Diner (very cool restaurant with lots of smiling people working there) died in a motorcycle accident last night. It just hit my heart SO hard! I have trouble understanding my emotions some times. I work with people at the end of their life daily and generally I do ok. Sometimes though...my heart just feels like it's going to break. As in this case. Please pray for his wife Colleen and 2 (grown) sons.
Today I have a "difficult" transport of a patient to the doctor. Once again, young man, a heart breaking story. I think I need some shower/prayer time this morning before I put on a smile and head out the door. It's rainy today. But I'm thankful that we have a loving God and that both these men love Him.

Fireweed

2007-07-10T21:57:00.000-07:00

My friend Susan and her husband, Steve, recently took a drive up to Eagle Summit and the Arctic Circle.
She took some AMAZING pictures of the fireweed covered hills and I want you all to see them! Click Here and scroll about 2/3rds of the page down. Click on the individual pictures for a closer look at God's amazing handiwork and Susan's incredible photography!
Fireweed is edible. In Alaska, candies, syrups, jellies, and even ice cream are made from fireweed.

The Middle of Summer

2007-07-06T07:33:00.000-07:00

This is the time of year when I'm rarely on the computer. Morning computer time is work oriented and evenings are spent enjoying the "Midnight Sun." Above is a picture taken of the midnight sun by an Anchorage woman at Eagle Summit. Located 108 miles from Fairbanks, this summit towers 3,624 feet high, well above the timberline..
If you click on the picture you can see all the bugs that were in the air when she snapped the photo. I'm surprised the mosquitoes didn't fly away with her camera! You'd NEVER see Katie outside in those buggy conditions!
The only time we've been to Eagle Summit is in the middle of winter when the wind was blowing and you had to follow close behind a snow plow to make it over the summit. A harrowing experience but worth it to visit our friends that ran the now closed, Arctic Circle Hot Springs. (50 miles south of the Arctic Circle.)
Life is busy and good. Katie and I had a great time on our road trip and camp experience. A much needed break from work.
I'm also looking forward to a trip to California in Sept. to visit family (both Rick's and mine) and do some job shadowing at 2 volunteer hospices.

Rambling Updates

2007-06-15T16:44:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share a few updates for those that read this blog.

First, I received my Zoomer swim fins last night and used them today on my 40 laps. The arms are the most efficient source of swimming propulsion but have only a small percentage of the body's muscle mass. Zoomers fins increase the efficiency of the kick enough to make continuous use of the legs possible and worthwhile. The legs work harder but because they have a small blade, they do not overload the leg muscles. Today I was able to complete one length of the pool in 25 strokes rather than 33. But I'm working much harder using the larger body mass of the legs. AND, I can tell that my leg muscles really got a much better workout. And, it's nice to be able to do my 40 laps in 1 hour instead of 1 hr. 20 minutes! Who knows...I may move up the number of laps as I get stronger. I definitely have found "my" favorite workout. I feel refreshed after swimming, my appetite is not increased, my knees are not hurting as much and my back is not hurting at all! No tension across the shoulders like I usually have at night. And...I've lost over 10 lbs!
The other thing I'm enjoying is the library book: French Women Don't Get Fat on cd's in my car. I'm enjoying food like I never have, nothing is forbidden, I've cut back on carbs and sweets but certainly enjoy them when I have them. This book is teaching me to ENJOY food and portion down. It's been a great encouragement!
And the last update... since getting a refrigerator thermometer and keeping my fridge at 37° I'm finding that it keeps vegetables and all foods much longer!! Great little investment.

Katie and I leave on our "Annual Girls Road Trip" with our friend Carla next Friday. It's a 5-6 hour trip with some beautiful scenery! We'll overnight in a hotel, shop in Anchorage - Great Harvest Bread where they give you HUGE samples, 5th Avenue Mall (probably 3 stores and we'll be shopped out), and our favorite resturant, Organic Oasis. Then, over night with our dear friends, Pastor Alaina and Pastor Jen, and head to Kids Camp in Big Lake for a week. Katie will be "camp slave" and I'll help Carla cook in the kitchen. I'm much better at filling ice, chopping, and doing dishes than the actual cooking so I'm VERY thankful Carla, the REAL cook is going along!

Our Favorite Song-Anyway - by Martina McBride

2007-06-13T11:00:00.000-07:00

Rick watched this music video and shared it with me. We absolutely love it and downloaded the song from ITunes. Thought I would share. It has a great message!!
It's worth the wait...waiting for it to load! Have a GREAT day!

Summertime in Alaska

2007-06-06T05:56:00.000-07:00

Here's Katie, escaping the bugs in the grass. The trampoline is our meeting place for conversation and very little bouncing.
Everyone is going 90 miles an hour this time of year and enjoying the sunshine.
Katie loves her summer job but still finds time to play. Her youth group gets together for kick ball, football, and ping pong. Playing is ALWAYS fun!
Rick was out "playing" with a fork lift last night - starting the clean up of the burned shop.
Awwww summertime. Goes so fast! I'm still looking for a *lawn boy* to help with mowing.

Fellowship

2007-06-04T08:46:00.000-07:00

This was in my inbox this morning and I liked it... so thought I would share.

GOT FELLOWSHIP?
By Rev. Dawn Scott Jones

Fellowship. What a great word. It comes from the idea of two people sitting together in a ship. By necessity, these two men or women would have to be companions, working and watching together, sharing community and conversation. Together they could enjoy the strength of relationship and experience the smooth sailing that camaraderie brings.

But what if one of the men in that close confinement was rude and arrogant? What if one of the women on that boat was a constant downer, endlessly complaining about her troubled marriage or deviant children? The ride would be on rough waters to say the least. Fellowship like that could cause you to look for the nearest Port of Call or even tempt you to jump overboard!

It's important to choose carefully who you fellowship with. "Do not be deceived: 'Bad company corrupts good morals'" (1 Cor. 15:33, NASB).

But what if we plunged a little deeper into this idea and thought about it in terms of the attitudes we fellowship with? If we were to check the "passengers" that are on board in the cabin of our hearts what would we find there? Would there be the stow-a-ways of discouragement or depression? Perhaps you would find pride, bitterness, or faultfinding.

Maybe you have never thought about fellowship in this way before, but the attitudes we stow are as important as the company we keep. I am fellowshiping on a daily basis with my own thoughts and those attitudes, like friends, are affecting my behavior. If I am bound to a negative thought life, am I not fellowshiping with darkness?

"Do not be bound together with unbelievers; for what partnership have righteousness and lawlessness, or what fellowship has light with darkness?" (2 Cor. 6:14).

This Scripture is clearly speaking of our associations, but it's interesting to visualize this biblical truth to include the fellowship of our own attitudes. If we are listening to the voices of anxiety, we may be fellowshiping with the darkness of fear. How could we launch out into the deep places with God if fear is rowing against us? That fellowship would keep us anchored to the shores of safety and comfort. Or how could we set sail with negativity as our navigator? We would find ourselves seeing everything through a dense fog and then be surprised when we arrive at the wrong destination.

Because I am with myself 24/7 I am feeding my own spirit all the time. Therefore it is important to know what I am fellowshiping with. If faith comes by hearing (see Rom. 10:17) then what does my heart hear me say? Does the inner fellowship of my attitudes increase my own faith or do I discourage myself and provoke my own unrest? Faith does indeed come by hearing, but so does doubt and fear. If I hear a negative report, these two shipmates are all too ready to climb on board and set sail with me.

Of course there are times when our fellowship is invaded by pirates. The hostile takeover of our serenity is often a real threat. So we must be diligent to carefully watch the compass of our thought life and not let it wander into enemy territory or places of danger. Random thoughts will try to enter your boat and ride with you, tormenting your mind and heart.

How much better it would be to voyage with the peace of Christ! To descend into the bottom of the vessel and find Jesus at rest there in spite of the storm around me. How inviting it sounds to raise the sail of hope and embark on a journey, knowing that joy and wisdom will travel with me. This is the fellowship I long for.

We cannot underestimate the power of our associations. Take inventory of your cargo and throw doubt, fear, anxiety, depression and bad attitudes overboard. Invite Jesus' thoughts and words into your fellowship.

Great Applesauce/Wheat Germ Muffins

2007-06-03T07:06:00.000-07:00

My friend, Sally made these muffins for us and we just HAD to have the recipe! Katie is now eating them every morning for breakfast and snacks. I've got a second "dbl" batch in the oven right now! Ok, so here they are on the left, done! I'm dropping some off for my friend Susan and her hubby before the leave for their camping trip to the Kenai Penninsula this morning.

Sally's Applesauce Wheat Germ Muffins (easily doubled)
12 muffins - oven 400°F
Butter inside and top of a regular size (1/3C.) muffin pan.

In large bowl combine:
1 1/2 C. unbleached flour
1 C. toasted wheat germ
2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. baking soda
3/4 tsp. salt
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. freshly grated nutmeg
3/4 C. walnut (or pecan) pieces
2/3 C. dried cranberries (not craisins, too sweet - bulk from Fred Meyers)
2/3 C. Ghiradelli DBL (60% cocoa) chocolate chips

In a medium bowl combine:
1 large egg beaten
1/2 C. loosely packed light brown sugar
1/3 C. Vegetable oil (canola)
1 C. applesauce (no sugar added)
1/2 C skim milk

Mix wet ingredients with the dry ingredients until just evenly moistened. Spoon batter into muffin cups. Sprinkle topping (4 tsp. sugar, 1/4 tsp. cinnamon) on top of each muffin.
Bake 17 minutes or until done. Let sit in pan a few minutes before removing. Serve warm, not hot. *Great served with a plate of fresh fruit!

Link to an article on Super Foods That Everyone Needs. In case you don’t feel like clicking, here they are:

* Beans
* Blueberries
* Broccoli
* Oats
* Oranges
* Pumpkin
* Salmon
* Soy
* Spinach
* Tea (green or black)
* Tomatoes
* Turkey
* Walnuts
* Yogurt

Mermaid in the Pool

2007-06-03T06:15:00.000-07:00

Last Friday, I was swimming my laps and noticed the woman in the lane next to me. She was the most graceful swimmer! She was doing all kinds of graceful movements and at the same time really "moving" through the water.
Once finished, and in the locker room, I saw my friend/hospice volunteer, Teri. She was the swimmer I saw! Teri is a 76 year old woman that just radiates kindness. She said that she had been a State winner in swimming when she was young and in school.
Teri also attributed part of her expertise to the "Zoomer" fins she uses. She says they increase the amount of workout your legs get when swimming and I'm watching a set on EBay to bid on!
Do I need more contraptions to help me swim? Yeah! I need all the help I can get! I am up to 40 laps and don't plan on increasing the # but would sure like to get it done faster and more gracefully. This woman is an inspiration to me. I hope in 20 years I'm still as active!

Bad News... Good News

2007-05-27T16:19:00.000-07:00

It's a beautiful Sunday here! The wind is blowing about 25 mph and all the bugs are GONE!! I've been out mowing. Good news... our 4 hour hospice plant sale brought in $15,000. Bad news... our office landlord called this morning and a steam pipe broke in our office and everything got REALLY steamy and hot. I can't imagine the damage to computers, copiers, and files. Aersol cans exploded, etc. Good news... we break ground on our new hospice office mid-June. Bad news... our shop was on fire again?!? Good news... neighbor's saw the smoke and called us and Rick was able to put it out with a hose. Bad news... back to mowing for me!! Good news... Memorial Day will be a day of REST for all of us at this house!

MORE LIGHT AND LESS NOISE

2007-05-23T06:13:00.000-07:00

Something to ponder:
A great story from one of America's greatest story tellers, Abraham Lincoln, was related by the president during those anxious days of the American Civil War. A delegation of well-meaning patriots tried to impress upon the president the gravity of the war. They implied that his administration was neither as wise nor good as it ought to be. He listened carefully, then responded with a memorable anecdote.

He told them that he once had a neighbor who found himself in a tight situation. He was traveling home one dark and rainy night. There were few bridges in the country and he came to a stream that he would have to ford. But because of the darkness and the rain, he couldn't see well enough to know just where to cross.

Lightning flashed and he saw his way for the briefest moment. But the man was perplexed because there seemed to be more thunder than lightning. He was convinced that every lightning flash was followed by several loud peals of thunder. The poor man just stood at the edge of the stream in his confusion about how to proceed. He finally prayed, "O Lord, if it is just the same to you, give me more light and less noise."

The delegation clearly got the point that the president needed more solutions and less complaining - more light and less noise.

Some people are more like light and others are more like noise.

Some people shed light on solutions. Others only make a din about the way things are.

Some people help us to see the situation more clearly. Others just sound off about who's to blame.

Some people show a better way. Others clamor about the present course of action.

Some people offer to help. Others wail about the problem.

The sun rises every morning and sheds light, vanquishing the night's darkness. The rooster also rises every morning and makes noise, which does nothing about the darkness.

How could things be different if you were more like the sun than the rooster? What if you decided today to contribute to the light? -- Steve Goodier

Time consuming fingerprinting!

2007-05-19T06:46:00.001-07:00

Life has certainly taken a busy turn! I'm now rolling 2 sets of fingerprints for, and helping over 60 volunteers fill out the new online background check for Health and Social Services. Add that to the daily patient care at hospice... and it's BUSY in my world.
On the up side, Katie is now an "upper classman" - a Junior! Schools out and all finals are over. She does have quite a bit of "homework" to prepare for her AP classes beginnng in August! Poor kid! We celebrated with banana splits last night and the night before we had chinese with Ben and Char at their new home on their new lovely dining room set! What a beautiful home Ben built!
Katie also starts her new job at Design Alaska on Monday. I hope she loves this job and learns a LOT!
Rick, is frantically looking for land to build 5 group homes. Land is hard to find!
That's it from the Callahan world.

Apple(s) of My Eye

2007-05-13T20:21:00.000-07:00

My children are the *apple of my eye* that is - cherished, my pride and joy. This Mother's Day they blessed me with flowers, a card, and a special *M* with "love you because..." written all over it. Even the pet name of "Mama Callahan" from my sweet daughter-in-law makes my heart full every time I hear her say it.

They are amazing kids. Full of godly character and a joy to watch as they grow, mature, and consistently make good choices for their future.

Thank you for making my day perfect.
I am richly blessed.

Science Experiments in your fridge??

2007-05-12T16:38:00.000-07:00

I know I found a few in ours today. It's a rainy Saturday and Rick was home to help me pull it out and clean underneath... my my my... it had been a WHILE! Dust bunnies were proliferating under there! I'm also glad Rick was home to help me put all the shelves, glass, and contraptions back in there! What happened to the old-time simple ice box!!
So my question today is: At what temperature do you keep your fridge? Most websites I looked at, recommended 37°. I guess I need a refrigerator thermometer to find that out!
What a nice rainy day "project." Now....about that dirty ceiling fan in the living room... just turning it on high doesn't seem to be working....

Katie's French Project

2007-05-10T08:36:00.000-07:00

Katie, Rita, and Amy worked very hard on this video. In fact, Rita and Katie were up well past midnight getting it edited from tons of footage. It's a french alphabet song and is also about a boy and girl breaking up. They had so much fun and I think they did a GREAT job! They could not get the Itunes song to import into IMovie so they had to record it off the net through the computer microphone so the music isn't as clear as they wanted. All in all, I think it deserves an A!!!

We are juicing!

2007-05-09T08:50:00.000-07:00

Here's Katie helping make our juice. We are making carrot, sprout, and spinach juice every day. It tastes wonderful and has to be nutritious... right? This little healthy juicer I ordered is pretty much a joke though! It takes forEVER and you have to cut the carrots so small to get them through that I've started slicing them in the food processor first, (adding to the mess.) My friends, Hoby and Mary Lou have offered me their "loaner" juicer and I think I'll take them up on it! If this new way of eating "sticks" I'll get a good one down the road.

Our newest Hospice Patient Care Volunteers

2007-05-08T10:22:00.000-07:00

I can't begin to express my *joy* of getting to know each and every one of these lovely women. They are full of grace, compassion, and enthusiasm for helping our hospice patients live each day with hope and a smile. They come from all walks of life but each carry with them a HUGE heart and ALL that they need to do this special service called Hospice. My job now is to get them placed quickly!
It is a pleasure to have them in our organization!

Sweet Potato Fries!

2007-05-03T07:11:00.000-07:00

These Alexia Sweet Potato Fries are our current favorite when we have boca burgers or BLT's! Cooked in the oven, they are crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. VERY tasty! They are in the organic freezer section at Freds but I don't know "how" nutritious they are because the ingredients do list some preservatives and such. They are great for a treat though and my family loves them.

Let me impress you!

2007-05-02T11:42:00.000-07:00

I was up at 4:30 this morning to get Katie off to school for a Staff Breakfast at 5:45 this morning so I went to the club and did my 30 laps, came home, worked a bit, and then walked the "hill and loop" with my friend Susan and Molly (my beagle.) Aren't I just the exercise guru today!!
It was quite hilarious to see the expression on Susan's face when a fenced dog caught Molly's attention and she started in with her "beagle baying"!!! LOL This is only Molly's second walk of the summer and she could use a little training! Susan helped me work with Molly, and by the time we had passed about 4 dogs, Molly was "whine-ing" instead of baying! I was quite proud of her. She will be sleeping for the rest of the day I'm SURE!
I'm also looking forward to the arrival of my Healthy Juicer. Katie and I are really having a good time trying to cut back on the processed foods and to incorporate more raw foods into our diet. I think we are on a health quest! And last night, when we heard on the news that the same product that was causing all the dog/cat deaths has been found in the chicken feed... well we just about cried as chicken is our main meat! Makes you wonder what our "food chain" really has in it! Maybe we should just survive on chocolate. I may discuss that with Katie. I know she'll agree with me!

Orange Rubber Bands

2007-04-29T20:34:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful day! I woke up with a stiff neck this morning...but made it to church. After church (we all drove separate cars because we were all going separate ways after church) I went to the athletic club and swam 30 laps. A gentleman came up to me and asked WHY the orange rubberbands. I told him that I start with a pile, move one over with each completed lap so that I don't have to concentrate on what lap I'm on and I can think and pray while I swim. He thought I was brilliant. LOL

Then I picked up a birthday present for my 72 year old friend who lives down the road (he lost his wife last fall and I've continued to keep in contact.) He's asked me to be on his Med-Alert response list so I'm going over tomorrow at 9 a.m. to learn his new fandangled combination entry for his home. I got him kalamata olives, hummus, ak-mak sesame crackers and rye krisp, and two good kinds of cheese. Oh and a Birthday card. I know this gentleman likes his wine so maybe he can "snack" on these things. I'm not good at knowing what to get for men. He doesn't eat sweets.

THEN... my friend Sherry came over and she and I took Molly for a walk up the hill and loop in my neighborhood. She wasn't even winded on the hill! I...couldn't speak at all! But at least I had the strength to get UP the hill! Some years... my first time, I've had to stop and rest. So I can tell my swimming is paying off!

Now, after a big salad...I'm hanging out with my family for the evening. Perfect day! And my stiff neck is almost gone!

Comfort

2007-04-26T18:22:00.000-07:00

We give comfort
and receive comfort
sometimes at the same time...

(Thanks Jennifer for giving me this card!)

I'm preparing this morning for our hospice class, Being of Service, and I want to share some quotes from In the Service of Life by Rachel Remen MD
1. Serving is different from helping. Helping is based on inequality; it is not a relationship between equals.
2. When we help, we may inadvertently take away from people more than we could ever give them; we may diminish their self-esteem, their sense of worth, integrity and wholeness.
3. Helping incurs debt. When you help someone they owe you one. But serving, like healing, is mutual. There is no debt. I am as served as the person I am serving. When I help I have a feeling of satisfaction. When I serve I have a feeling of gratitude.
4. I think I would go so far as to say that fixing and helping may often be the work of the ego, and service the work of the soul.
5. Over time, fixing and helping are draining, depleting. Over time, we burn out. Service is renewing. When we serve, our work itself will sustain us.
6. Lastly, fixing and helping are the basis of curing, but not of healing.

I constantly ask myself, am I helping or serving.
Am I operating from my heart or my ego?
It's so easy for me to slip into the "it's all about me" mode!
Have a great day.

Talking about dead chicken!!!

2007-04-23T19:44:00.000-07:00

I love the little picture to the left. Poor Jimmy! But the reason for this post is to tell you how MUCH we love those rotisserie chickens you can purchase at the grocery store! Throw in a veggie, a salad, and some sort of seasoned pasta and you've got a great meal.

I wonder if I'll quit cooking when Katie leaves home. Maybe I should start stocking up on Ensure for Rick! Poor guy. At least they are adding new flavors so he will have some variety!

Today was great! I worked from home and took a break and walked 3 miles with my friend Susan. So far, I'm not too sore but I'll probably feel it upon waking tomorrow!

No more Taxi Mom!

2007-04-16T18:13:00.000-07:00

She's OFF! As soon as we picked it up after school, she was back to the school to help with an event! I'm SO happy for her. She is such a wonderful young lady.

My baby is definitely growing up. My goodness... her car is newer than mine! But I still love my car!

Just Keep Swimming... Just Keep Swimming

2007-04-12T16:15:00.000-07:00

Oh! I feel just like Dory! My family joined a local athletic club and they have a great pool! Not to cold... not to hot! But... because of arthritis in my neck I was in PAIN from doing the Freestyle stroke. NOW...I'm very much a funny looking dork with my NEW snorkel, my goggles, and of course, my nose plug. How can one snorkel without your nose plugged!?! I'd put up a picture but you would all laugh!! I'm having so much fun though and with all these contraptions I can "Just Keep Swimming..." with NO neck pain! I love it! I think we are all going tonight. But I'm the only swimmer in the family. I go early early in the morning before work and it's working out great.

Work, on the other hand is very very busy. Hence the lack of posting. I'm right in the middle of a 36 hour training, 2 times a week (+ work.) Tuesday night Dr. Carroll and Dr. Shihadeh taught the class - (local oncologist & radiation oncologist.) Amazing, compassionate men. And so full of knowledge. An article came out in our local paper Tuesday about the uninsured often not receiving quality care or necessary treatment when faced with cancer. Very proud to say...not in THIS town. A patient has never been turned away or refused treatment because of financial difficulty. Again.... I pay tribute to these men and to our Cancer Treatment Center.

Good Tasting Water!!

2007-04-04T21:02:00.000-07:00

I found this great flavorer for water and it makes water so refreshing and easy to drink! No after taste! SweetLeaf liquid stevia! A friend told me about it and I purchased it at our local Sunshine Health food store and I love the cinnamon flavor. There are lots of different ones but I haven't tried them. For my 32oz water bottle I put 8 - 10 drops in.
Stevia: From a South American plant called Stevia, this herb has an abundance of positive effects. The whole leaf contains numerous phytonutrients and trace minerals and is much sweeter than sugar with out negative effects. It can sweeten with no calories, no carbohydrates, no tooth decay and is diabetic safe. Stevia nourishes the pancreas and does not raise blood glucose levels, making it not only safe for diabetics but also beneficial.

Our Grieving Hearts

2007-03-31T20:16:00.000-07:00

It is with deep saddness that I make this entry. The last 2 weeks our hearts and minds have been consumed with thoughts and prayers for Rob and Leanne. After about a 2 week battle with lymphatic cancer, Rob died on March 27th. Words can't express the feelings of loss and deep sadness we feel.
Many people have supported them in presence and prayers throughout this brief illness. It's not fair. But through it all my faith in a faithful God has never wavered.

You know, I work in hospice, but even so, when you lose someone you've known for 26 years, the pain is so numbing. Such heaviness weighs down your heart. Rick was down with Rob and Leanne at the hospital in University of Washington. On the final day, Rick prayed over him. Part of that prayer was, "Your life of integrity has raised walls of protection around your wife, your children and grandchildren, and to your future generations." Thank you Rob... for your life. We will never forget you and we make a commitment to love and care for your family in the days to come.

When Jen called to tell me that Rob was gone, I was looking at this picture online:
An amazing local photographer, Susan Stevenson, took this picture in Homer a couple of weeks ago. When I saw it, my thoughts went immediately to Rob and the words that came to mind were, "Soaring With Purpose." Susan graciously gave me a print (it looks so much better than the image you can see here) and I gave it to Leanne today. I hope God speaks to her heart through this picture. I love you Leanne and Bethany and Kendra.

Fire!

2007-03-17T00:36:00.000-07:00

Our shop burned down while we were at church. You can see the edge of our house in the picture. Thankfully it wasn't our house and we have good insurance. The whole neighborhood turned out and we still have about 5 fire engines out front. We our counting our blessings though and Katie is thinking maybe the foundation would make a great tennis court.
And because my dear husband had no shop to "go to" this morning, I awoke to all the dishes washed and the kitchen clean!
Ben and Rick are both mourning the loss.

A Wonderful Spring Break!

2007-03-15T11:30:00.000-07:00

With Daylight Savings time it's sunnier later! Too bad the temps are still hovering at -25 to -30 below.
Work has been busy but Katie and I always make time to attend (and videotape) a wedding!! Alton is a trumpeter for the Army and stationed on Ft. Wainwright.
Vanessa is a new hospice volunteer and just moved this winter from Germany to be with her fiance', Alton.
Chaplain Murray officiated and was even able to do Vanessa's vows in German! And now they are married!!

Sweet couple!

Yesterday was my dear friend Brenda's birthday. She's MUCH younger than I, (10 years) but I always give her a hard time about getting old. And so, in her card, that Katie made for her, I wrote,

"They tell you that you'll lose your mind when you grow older. What they don't tell you is that you won't miss it very much."

Brenda runs a 10 bed assisted living and most of her patients (whom she loves dearly) have Alzheimers. So this saying really did speak to her heart. It's amazing to see the love of God, and the love for these sweet people that Brenda has. I love her so.

Today I'm invited to have lunch with a woman that is a Grief Recovery Specialist along with several of my coworkers. Tonight is stay home with our favorite Dad/Husband, night and then we have a conference at church starting Friday - Sunday night with Leif Hetland. God used this man last year when he did a Father's Heart Conference at our church to really change my heart, my attitude, and my life. I'm very excited about this Soaring Eagles Conference.

So... we are having a wonderful spring break! I have this teenage daughter that tells me she loves me all through the day. What could be more perfect than that.

I love my family.

2007-03-03T21:08:00.000-08:00

I had such a wonderful time reuniting with my family, celebrating my Aunt Doris' 90th birthday, and sharing stories, pictures, hugs, and even a few tears with 8 of my 10 1st cousins. I'm so thankful for this trip. It has changed my life. I come from good stock. All wonderful, caring, funny, and sincere people. Put the cursor over picture for title.

Interesting info about powdered milk and free radicals.

2007-03-01T13:27:00.000-08:00

Interesting tidbit I learned from my dental hygentist the other day. According to her, powdered milk should never be used because it is almost completely free radicals. Interesting huh! Even Wikipedia speaks to this issue.
I love my hygentist. Through the years she has become my nutritional and dental care cheerleader. She is taking her board exams this month to complete her Masters in nutrition so I *listen* when she speaks.
Ellen also got me completely hooked on using a shower flosser (if you use it it will be the best $27 you ever spent) every morning and regular flossing at night. Add a Sonicare electric toothbrush to that and you'll have great dental hygiene!

Doesn't this post just make you want to go brush and floss your teeth?

Trip and Celebration!!!!

2007-02-21T14:21:00.000-08:00

Thanks to the goodness of my dear husband and daughter, I'm heading to Lincoln Nebraska tonight on the *red-eye*! Sunday, February 25th will be the 90th birthday of my Dear Sweet Aunt Doris that I know I have not seen since the late 60's!! This is how I remember her. Beautiful red lips and always a smile and a big bear hug. I'm SOOO excited!!

Also, EIGHT of my first cousins will be flying in too. Six of them I have not seen since I was probably 13. I am so BLESSED to be able to see them all!! What a family reunion huh!! This is the only picture I have of us all together. I believe I'm the youngest, at 51! (Click on the picture to see it larger.)

Amazing Dancing Horse

2007-02-19T23:20:00.000-08:00