Cre8tive Cowgirl

This week's word: GOALS!

2012-02-12T19:31:00.000-08:00

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Hi Friends! I hope this blog post finds you cozy, comfy and in a peace-filled state of mind. I’m preparing for a super busy week, one that is filled to the brim with “go”! I’m ready. I may not know EXACTLY what’s on the rise, though I’ll be prepared for it as much as possible. Looking down the barrel at the next five days, tomorrow is the only night that I don’t have some type of event or activity happening. Time management has become second nature and though the internal clock is always tickin’ I’m learning to find ways to enjoy myself as well.

This week’s word, (and I’d lourve your input!) is GOALS. I’ve been working through Marci Shimoff’s “Happy for No Reason” course as well as Paul Scheele’s Genius Code. I noticed that my goals/intentions are really “down to earth”. There was nothing earth shattering or impossible on my list. Just about everything I wrote down was “do-able”. Some goals will take time (that I currently don’t have an excessive amount of). Some goals will take money (quite a bit of it actually) but many of the goals that I hold are not that far out there. It’s not that I’m afraid to dream big, it IS that I know where I’m at right now, energetically, emotionally, physically, mentally, spiritually, financially……

I’d gladly welcome a large sum of money landing in my lap (I’m sure Id find some way to channel it!) and yet, I know that my goals are “rich” and entail much more consideration than, “can I afford this?” Instead I ask, “is this the best way to use my time, talents and resources?”

My major goal right now is getting my master’s degree. I had no idea that I would ever travel down this path. I love reading. I love libraries. I love technology. What I’ve learned: enjoy the journey. Unlike other classes and experiences, I’m not trying to power through the requirements. I’m doing something every day to inch toward this goal. I’m settling in, enjoying the journey and absorbing all I can. Instead of focusing on “getting done” I’m focusing on doing what I need to do AND then TOTALLY FEEDING MY SOUL throughout the day. I tend to put myself last and one of my goals for 2012 is changing this up and doing something that I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE daily...not just when I feel I have time to do it.

This week, I’ll contine focusing on goals, what I want to do, where I want to go, what I want to experience and what I’m willing to invest. Please join me. You’re invited to share what you’d like to do from here on. What is your greatest hope? What do you focus on every day? What have you committed to and what have you learned from this? How are you caring for yourself while working toward this goal?

Feel free to post here or on Facebook! I look forward to hearing about your experiences with GOALS!

Inspiration Is...doing what you heart

2012-02-07T15:02:00.001-08:00

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I found this great little reminder yesterday on a free printables web link. The author is Lori McDonough. I printed it to add color to this week. Based on my time, I may only get a couple of letters in today...and with my newly adopted version of any cre8tive time is quality time, "that'll do".

Inspiration for me comes when I least expect and usually always when I am most certainly NOT looking for it. In fact sometimes it arrives when my mind believes that "this really isn't a good time". In truth, we don't look for inspiration, it looks for us. If we are open, flowing, ready to absorb and relfect, then we see, feel, touch, taste, smell, hear and experience inspiration. And if it isn't the right time now, then there'll likely be another time in the future.

Even in our most busy alignment, we can purposely notice when inspiration has found us. Thanks to all the beautiful souls who have left me "inspiring" emails and notes today. I'm encouraging you to share these with others (and know that I'll also keep your privacy, if you've indicated this in the email!) I'm delighted this is offering an opportunity for reflection!

If you'd like to post your examples of Inspiration on your Facebook wall, you are welcome to tag me in it so that others who visit my wall can see!

I'm blessed to be connected to such awesome, cre8tive beings!

Robyn

ShareYour Inspiration!!!!

2012-02-06T18:11:00.000-08:00

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Since the new calendar year begin in January, I’v shifted my focus from the outer world to my inner being. I went through a really rough patch at the end of December. While I’m not a “whiner and complainer” by nature, I couldn’t help but notice themes of victimhood, sadness, lost hope, direction and grief. I’ve learned through my Journey practice that all emotions are “welcome here”. I no longer exclude those heavy, less than desirable ones as they are just emotions and “they too pass”. I also took them as signs that I was off track and out of alignment with my truest self.

I was determined to get "my groove back" but since I didn't know where I even lost it, I felt the best plan was to take a month to observe and what I noticed was that I was taking less time for me, specifically less time to putter, to play, to honor my creative muse. This type of deep, inner reflection has been supported by the winter season. Naturally this is a time to go within, see “what’s here” and clarify our intentions. While I notice that I don't have a lot of time to spare, I also notice that having time to create, share, inspire and be inspired is as important to me as eating nutritious, healthy food, exercising, brushing my teeth, and even breathing fresh air. As silly as it may sound, by not doing something creative daily, I lost my sense of direction. I think this is easy to do in the busy lives many of us lead.

In the past I’ve put my creative vibrations on hold for when I had more time. I dare not begin working on a card or writing something if I didn’t have time to finish my project because I may not get back to it for a month and I can’t stand leaving things incomplete! So instead of taking a few minutes to “create” I by-passed my creative urgings and just kept on working. In doing so, I wasn’t happier or more efficient….I was crabby! (True confession here…I know it’s hard to believe ;)

I have a strong feeling there are many others in the same non-creative canoe. We all know the value of prioritizing, yet I can easily prioritize myself away from what my heart and spirit most thrives on. My creative musings aren’t works of art, they aren’t masterpieces. They aren’t always for meaningful! Instead they are simply results of what happens when I allow my spirit to open, flow and create. If they do happen to inspire others, why that would tickle me pink, purple, yellow, orange and green! (Like exercise, I don’t do it to “get skinny” I walk, bike, hike and golf for the sheer enjoyment of moving and being outside.)

So it came to me that it would incredibly fun and it would also keep me accountable to my desire of consciously making creative time in my life if I invited others to join me. I am blessed with amazingly creative friends! My heart’s desire is to come together as a virtual community with the soul intention of having a creative forum to share, inspire and be inspired!

I’ll be post a word of the week, probably on Sunday and I'm inviting you to share how the word relates to you, what it means and how you’ve incorporated it into your week! You can drawn, doodle, paint, sew, knit, scrapbook, photograph, write, record, sing, dance, cook and DO ANYTHING that comes to mind, anything CREATIVE that you’d like to share with others of like heart and spirit.

You can leave your “musings” right here on the blog or on my Facebook wall. You can email me at crea8tivecowgirl@gmail.com to share any stories as well! I’ll post a new word each Sunday.

How about if we start this week with…..INSPIRATION? That feels fitting doesn't it?

Hangin On By A Thread

2012-02-05T12:55:00.000-08:00

Pryce came to me the other day in tears. Her favorite pheasant was about to die. He was literally “hanging by a thread”. Poor creature! I looked at the alligator tears on my daughter’s face and and smiling, I shared that I would do what I could to help her.
“Grab the scissors I told her.”
“No!” she shrieked.
“Trust me,” said I.
She nearly fainted when I snipped the braided rope away from the base of the neck and head of the stuffed dog toy. “I know it looks bad,” I told her “but in the end, your toy will be EVEN better.” She still didn’t trust me, that was easy to see, but what choice did she have? Her beloved dog toy and come to the end of its “rope” and was done dealing within its current state.
I took this as a lesson and shared that we often get to this place in our lives where we feel we are “hanging on by a thread”. Sometimes there’s little else that we can do, especially when we know the end (of the current phase) has been completed. We can lament the end, feel the sadness fully and then we have a choice: stay there in our misery or…..move on. If we choose the later, we’ll find that the end is also a new beginning. Things can look and feel different here and usually, they are better than before. I’m not saying we will be without sadness and scars, it’s just that we are gifted with the conscious choice of moving forward.
This is a challenging concept for a kid but I think she got it. I took her and the headless pheasant downstairs. Together, the three of us walked into the craft room where I pulled out my Grandma’s supply of thread and needles.
“You could pretend that you brought your pheasant to the Vet,” I said.
“No thanks,” she replied. “Do you know how to sew Mom?”
“Just watch Pryce.”
She did watch, she made sure that I was doing what appeared to be correct form from her 6 year old observation. Slowly and precisely the head of the pheasant was “tacked” on. She wanted reassurance that his head wouldn’t pop off, so I took a few extra stitches.
“Good as new,” I said. “Wait….. I think this version is EVEN BETTER.”
She took the new and improved pheasant in her arms and smiled up at me.
“Thanks Mom,” she said as she cradled her pheasant.

I thought I’d share this for anyone who feels like they’ve gotten to the “end of their rope” and are “hanging by a thread”. The advice I offer is to cut the thread and start over. The end is also a beginning. Sometimes we’re afraid to move forward because we don’t want to experience something worse. I think instead we may keep ourselves from experiencing something EVEN BETTER.

If we’ve done the best we can, with what we have, in the time we have, then that’s always enough. If your thread is frazzled and there’s nothing left to do but relax and let go……chances are there is something very new and improved already waiting for you.

The Next Phase

2011-12-10T12:26:00.001-08:00

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Hi Friends!

It’s been a while since I’ve posted and I wanted to provide an update for anyone who still reads the blog. As many of you know I’ve been in the midst of personal and professional transition. I knew a few things were coming down the wire, thanks to the Nine Star Ki philosophy that I follow. And while I have a good grasp on personal themes and energies of the month and year, it isn’t a substitute for actually going through and being in a full on experience…….of any kind!

The past five years have been amazing and I’ve LOVED every moment of being home, raising my children and expanding my personal path. It’s been a phrase of self-exploration, meaningful discoveries and investigations that weren’t possible had I not listened to my heart and followed what was coming through. It took for a me for quite a loop then when I realized that my path was once again shifting and not necessarily in a direction that I had seen coming. Nope, I sure didn’t plan on this one. After five years of being out of the education field, save for substitute teaching, I never planned on a return. The opportunity arose and after a lot of contemplation, I accepted. In August I became Maywood Public School’s librarian. This position required that I take additional classes to obtain a specialists degree. I started September as a college student with nine hours of classes, a full time job, a family and….an open mind. I had no idea how it would go only that it was sure to busy and probably stressful.

This return was significantly different from the previous 12 years of teaching. I realized as stepped back into this linear world with clocks, schedules and deadlines that I’d changed enormously. I’m not sure that I can describe these changes or that they would be relevant to reading. We all change and sometimes I don’t think we take the time to recognize and honor ourselves properly. No, most of the time, our focus is on all that stands before us: spouse, kids, home, laundry, dishes, breakfast, lunch, dinner, animal, homework, sports, tests, groceries…….who has time to contemplate when maybe our goal for the day is simply to get something on our plate to eat before we begin a second or third job for the night, before we crash wearily into the comfort of a bed we only spend 4 hours in?! That may sound extreme but that I’ve lived that scene once or twice in the past few months!

And there was no one to blame or be upset with. I had chosen this path or at least something deep inside me had felt it was the right way to go. I’ve loved books since I was a little girl. My favorite places to visit are libraries. I spent more time in my college library than I did in the bar, well, probably I did…..(no comment from Jamie, Danielle, Nancy or any of my other peeps who may be reading this!) The point is I LOVE libraries and not once in my life did I EVER consider going into this field. I have no idea why either, and let me tell you, I’ve been shaking my head and chuckling for the past few months at how I could have possible missed this field…HUGE OVERSIGHT!

I truly hesitated at the thought of giving up my personal freedom and the ability to create my own schedule. I love being at my home, hanging out with my animals and crafting a good life here at the Rafter Lazy H. I felt deeply nourished by the land, our place, my family and friends. I dove into expanding and honing my domestic skills. I learned to be a better gardener, can and preserve food, knit, sew (a little), cook from scratch, create new uses with old things, and writing. We brought in dairy goats and chickens, taking a few more steps toward self-sufficiency. I welcomed this “grounding” phrase after years of being on the go and traveling all the time.

Things don’t stay the same though, no matter how much we want them to. We all move on, we all change, grow and learn either with our conscious participation or resistance. We can embrace changes or we can deny them. We can give the power and responsibility away or we can co-create and align. I’ve always looked at life as an adventure. I never know what is coming my way and to me, that’s part of the fun. There are days that are not fun and days when I’m blessed out beyond recognition and yet I avoid labeling them. I feel the emotions, I allow them to come in and roll out. I take it all in.

Last Friday this current phase culminated in a personal goal that I didn’t even know I held. I’ve always loved learning and sharing. It’s part of my vibration and something that comes naturally to me. I had thought about getting a master’s degree and then when I left teaching I never gave it another thought; too much hassle, too much time, too much effort, too much money. In October I met with an amazing lady by the name of Dr. Rebecca Pasco. Ever hear of a golden key? She put in in my hand in this conversation! In this crystallizing moment I was reminded that our paths are not linear, they are meant to wind, weave, and take the “scenic route”.

I never looked for this job, this position, this career. It found me. I’ve only ever followed my heart in anything that I’ve ever done. If it feels right I do it, if it doesn’t I don’t. Gone are the days where I resist my own insight. Instead, even if it makes zero sense (to anyone including me) but it feels correct, I do it. I think my family and friends have seen this enough to know that it’s simply how I roll. So Dr. Pasco shared that not only could I get my specialists degree in library I would only be two classes away from a Master’s Degree, something clicked: this degree has been waiting a long time for me. I wasn’t going to spend money getting a degree in a field that I didn’t love. I wouldn’t have known that I love the library field had I not said “yes” to the opportunity that came to be a year ago at this time. I wouldn’t be in grad school if I hadn’t taken a chance and called Dr. Pasco. The amazing weave and web of this phase just feels magical to me! And all that was really needed was an open-mind and an open-heart. I’m thinking now we aren’t supposed to know how the dance will go, we’re just supposed to dance.

I wasn’t sure about the best way to offer an “update” and I’m a bit surprised at how much just “spilled out”. I’ve missed writing the blog and I’m happy to report that I’ll be posting much more often now that my classes are about wrapped up. I want to encourage you, wherever you are in your life, whatever you are facing or contemplating to say YES. Say YES to YOU. Go within, feel your truth. It is that simple, you can always wonder how things will turn out, but you don’t have to know. You can freely enjoy the path that you are walking on this day. You can let your heart lead the way and allow it to take you where it knows to go. I think we do ourselves a disservice when we work so hard to figure it all out because then we’re missing the joy of the present moment.

As we prepare to close the books on another year, I stand in awe and gratitude of all that I’ve been given. It’s really not the degree that I’m after, it’s the experience, the knowledge and the awareness of all that I am receiving, giving and learning along the way. Most of all, it is the opportunity to connect with others, to share, inspire and grow together. I think we have no idea how significant our impact and support is for others is. I was simply blown away with swelling gratitude, by the facebook responses I received when I posted that I’d made it into grad school. Those likes and comments were worth more than a million bucks to me!
So with all of my heart…thanks for reading. Thanks for your patience in between posts too. I’ll be happily sharing the new adventures, humor and story as they unfold. I hope you’ll keep “dancing” with me.

Keep on going..........

2011-09-01T16:50:00.001-07:00

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Cowboy Quote of the day: "If you're going through hell, keep going." ~Winston Churchill

I wouldn't necessarily qualify this month as hell, but some aspect of it are darn close. In the nine star ki philosophy, the energies of this month are related to two earth. Earth energies are known for being grounded, very grounded, and sometimes they get stuck, very stuck. No matter how hard we push, shove, insist, force and move, it may not appear to glean much progress. So we stop, wait and assess. Sometimes we start something new without fully realizing the implications involved. Yet, how can we know what the "new" will be like if we aren't willing to try it out, one taste at a time or.....by taking a whomping mouth-full!

My life has certainly taken on a new direction. I'm spending my days in a much more focused, linear manner. I'm not sure I'll always be doing what I presently do, though I can say that each day seems like a monumentally different shift! I can barely remember what I did last week, let alone focus on next week. Being so busy has helped me learn to prioritize my time, do what HAS to be done today and then carve out a little shameless time for myself.

How do I do this? I've had more than a few people inquire lately. Thanks so much for the love and support via, phone, text, email and facebook messages! I feel I have the MOST FANTABULOUS people in the world in my circle! I'm also blessed with amazing clients who actually take my advice and apply it! Here's what I'm offering for those of you who are wondering how to survive quantum acceleration, and conscious evolution:

1. Do at least one thing that YOU LOVE everyday

2. Get moving, whenever you can, whenever your schedule allows, walk, run, job, bike, swim, whatever....just do something physical every day.

3. Breathe. Whatever may be bothering you now, will likely be gone in a few days. If its still hanging around, it is there to teach you something. As soon as you learn it, the issue will clear itself up.

4. Do your best to sneak away to the sanctity of your bedroom and go to sleep early (especially if you have to get up early.) Even one night a week invigorates your body.

5. Don't react. If you hear news or information that is less than supportive....just listen. With so much energy swirling around, its easy to forget where we are and what others are going through as well.

6. Don't think. Stop trying to fix what is wrong, fix others or fix yourself. Just let it be. Accept who you are right now, all the blessings you already have and be grateful for the totality of the experience.

7. Play. Play with your dog, your kids, your friends, connect with others in meaningful and enjoyable ways. Focus on being with positive people, let the toxic ones go.

8. Breathe. It's essential. Sigh if you have to, scream if you must but take a lot of long, deep breaths and smile. It's does help you relax.

9. Do only what has to be done. If you don't get everything crossed off your list, you'll probably have an opportunity to do it tomorrow. If tomorrow doesn't come, it won't really matter will it?!?!

10. Get yourself an excellent planner. My favorite is the Mom Agenda. You can have it personalized if you want to. It's hard cover, it has a pocket in the front and in the back. There is a master calendar and then a weekly one with plenty of space. Write every, single, little detail down: passwords, emails, Christmas lists, birthdays, anniversaries, to-do's, goals, play lists, play dates, football games, church meetings, and anything else that may keep you awake at night! once you write it down, do it.

Easy-peasy-lemon-squeezy!

And one final thought; if the world around you appears to be moving fast, let this be an invitation for you to move even more slowly, with intention and integrity. Before you know it the "hell" you are walking through right now, just might transform itself into your next heaven.

The Long Awaited....Dilly Bean Recipe!

2011-08-16T08:18:00.001-07:00

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Hi Friends,

You may have noticed I've taken a little time away lately. The summer's rolled herself into August and we find that a new school year is just around the corner. Chad skipped a few rodeos and I gave up a little golf playing to spend a few days with our children before they start back to school next week.

I'll be posting more frequently as we settle into a routine. I say that with a little "tongue in cheek" because we never accomplished what remotely resembled a routine last year!

I've had several lovely peeps inquire about my dill bean recipe and so with out further delay, I fired up the ol 'puter today to post it on the blog. ENJOY! It's a favorite 'round these parts! I recently canned 25 pints. That should keep us stocked til....Christmas!

Dilly Beans
2lbs of fresh, tender green beans
cayenne pepper
4 cloves garlic peeled (I had at least two per jar because we all like garlic)
4 heads fresh dill or 2 t. dill weed
2 t. mustard seed
2 1/2 c. white vinegar
2 1/2 c. water
1/4 c. canning salt
*jalapeno or other peppers to give it a lil zing!

Wash tender beans, string if using that kind. Leave benas whole, trimming to fit jar; pack lengthwise into hot sterilzed pint jars. In each jar, add one dash cayenne pepper, one or two cloves garlic, one head of dill, and 1/2 tsp mustard seed. Combine the vinegar, mwater and salt in a saucepan; bring to a boil. Pour thi over the beans, filling to within 1/2" of the top. Seal immediately. Process in hot water bath for 10 minutes. Beans should stand in sealed jars at least 2 weeks before serving.

I also add dried peppers, whatever variety I have on hand.

PS If you know my brother or my cousin, Austin...you may want to hide them! hee hee Just kidding boys! Glad you love them!

I hear you October

2011-08-02T09:16:00.001-07:00

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I can taste October. I know she’s coming. It’s one of those inevitable things that you sense before you can see. I hold on to summer with all my might, both hands clinched down, as if my life depends on it. I love every bit of summer, even the heat. I may mention that it feels hot, but you won’t find me complaining about it.

I adore everything from fireflies to birds, moonlight nights, campfires and friends, plush grass (and weeds), a bountiful garden and cool mornings that burn up in the afternoon. There isn’t one that I detest about summer so naturally I never want it to go. Never! I could live eternally in this season and even if I live to be 90, I’m certain that the season will make feel young once again.

Summer’s warmth draws me out of the house and into the natural world more easily, though fall often beckons me in similar ways. Autumn is a transitional season, one that cushions the inevitable adrenaline decline that has built from May to August.

I secretly look forward to hot cider, campfires with a blanket wrapped around me and steaming mug of pumpkin spice coffee. It’s not the same as the passionate love affair I have with all things summer, more like a comfortable companion that I know waits for me year after year. I can gently rock into the red and gold brilliance, breathe in a little George Winston and relax.

This doesn’t mean I’m giving up on summer, not hardly! There’s still plenty of it left for me to savor and make memories with. There’s enough that I can distract my mind into thinking that it’ll last forever, even though my heart is whispering that it won’t. It will come around again, and so I’ll spend the next three months lying in wait, dreaming, planning, praying that it will arrive quickly, while at the same time appreciating what IS in front of me; be it soupy days or snow drifts.

I hear you October. I know you are on your way.

Friendship

2011-08-01T14:04:00.001-07:00

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Cowboy Quote of the Day: "When the solution is simple, God is answering." ~Albert Einstein

Is this not the coolest gift?!?! This gorgeous piece is the artistic cre8tion of my friend Ann. Ann is the official Johnston Family photographer and co-owner of Serendiptity Shots. She has an amazing eye for unique, fun pictures that truly captures the energy and essence of her subjects. I should add that she’s also patient and fast, she’s been capturing Ramon’s antics since she was two!)

This was my birthday gift and it truly brought tears to my eyes. Some of the quotes are from the blog, some she added because they were so uniquely ME, all of it from the heart. I LOVE it and I haven’t stopped staring at it!

Do you have a friend that really knows you and (still) loves you for just who you are? Consider yourself blessed! Though there are a lot of challenges that we face right now, the one thing we always have is each other. I don’t get to see my friend as often as I would like, I can’t just run over to her house and spew about my day, I can’t pick her up and share my triumphs over dinner but I know that she’s just a heartbeat away.

We all have challenges to deal with. We all have days that we’re just ready to close the books on and say good bye to. And we all have friends; they are the tickets that gets us through the rough spots and the companions that we share our joys and success along side of.

Here’s to the enduring ties of eternal friendship, may we all celebrate this joyful blessing!

(Thanks Annie, it was sooooo great to see you and Bob this weekend!)

PS Do any of you see the totally cool embedded name??? Bonus points if you do!

Still Here!

2011-07-27T07:05:00.001-07:00

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Yep, I’m still here and still kicking. Well sort of. With the help of copious amounts of coffee and Matevanna tea! It’s necessary in weeks like these. The end of the month finds me swamped as usual. I have the August monthly ki previews that I am kicking out (am delightfully amazed at how fluently these have come together!). I also have a fridge full of beans and cukes that are ready to process. My garden is way, way behind so thanks to my dear friends I was able to secure a load from the Eustis farmer’s market!

We have a slurry of to-dos in the next week, so much that my head is already spinning and it’s only 9 am. I’ve come to accept that this is my lot in life, for the time being. I suspect it won’t always be this hectic, or at least I hope it wont’ be. There’s enough to do that I have had to prioritize and focus my energies. I am now getting up anywhere from 5:30 to 6:30……without an alarm, if this tells you something?! For long term blog readers, you may recall my extreme detest of early morning? That too has passed. In the last month I’ve started a new program of getting up early to have coffee, do chores and sit in stillness before the chaos ensues. It’s working! I’m actually looking forward to and enjoying the early morning hours. Gee, not even a month in being 39 and I’m already accomplishing more than I did in the previous 38 years! (again, chuckle, chuckle!)

My goal is to update at least once a week. (Thanks to all you AWESOME peeps that have inquired about me and asked for more blog posts, I really appreciate the interest!) The next week is filled with appointments and client sessions, swimming lessons and a final push to bring things in order before the school year begins. As my outer world has got very busy, my writing time has been diminished. The good news is I have TONS of content for when things slow down enough for me to post more regularly!

Thanks for sticking with me and do check back for more updates. I will be teaching several classes, covering Feng Shui and Clearing Clutter come fall. I have offerings in North Platte, Imperial, Lexington and Kearney! The classes will be super fun and will include new content that I’ve been working on this summer.

Have superb day and a sunny, fun week!

39

2011-07-15T13:17:00.001-07:00

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Cowboy Quote of the Day: “Life may not be the party we hoped for, but while we’re here we should dance”~ Anonymous

I’m dancing today. In my tye-dye shirt and within my heart I am dancing and throwing a big party. I’ve been on the planet to experience 39 years of sunrises and sunsets. I’ve felt rain on my cheeks, sunshine on my skin and joy flowing through my heart.

I never know which direction the road will take me next and doesn’t this makes for a grand adventure?!?! Of all the situations I’ve experienced in my time here, the most amazing and powerful is LOVE. Love for self, for family, friends, animals, the earth, moon and stars. My spirit is soaring today in recognition of the rich abundance that continually surrounds me. It’s my deepest prayer that I can reflect that which is joy, peace, light, love, passion, beauty and grace to all those who are connected to me.

I’m sending rainbow colored balloons of laughter, appreciation and BIG LOVE to everyone today! It truly is a HAPPY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY. Thank you for being in my life, for supporting me, inspiring me, guiding me, laughing with me, loving me and sharing this journey together!

Masterpiece!

2011-07-14T12:57:00.003-07:00

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I might possibly be the most artistic clutz that I know. I say that because I am the last person to pull of a creation that is in anyway perfect. Most of the things I find and repurpose or make from scratch have flaws, many of them. Most of the time it doesn’t bother me but every now and then it scratches and pokes like a hidden burr in a sock.

Today was the day I designated to paint the counter tops in my bathroom. We have two more steps to complete before I retire from further bathroom updates. Counter tops and floors have been on the list for the past year. Since my finances are being channeled in other areas, home improvement ventures have taken a back seat. I thought a little paint would change the look of the room. Boy, was that right! It also has changed the look of the floor………

I wasn’t far into the painting when I went to unplug the ipod doc and move it. I lost my balance, tripped and over went the paint can. Yep. That’s how I roll. I have become masterful in the art of turning disasters into masterpieces or, er, well, at least something other than the original intended purpose. I lamented awhile, though I wasn’t heart broken; the carpet has its share of stains and was on its way out as soon as I could corner Chad long enough to cut and install tile.

Scrapbooking has helped me hone the art of mistakes. Applying my philosophy of “there are no accidents” (Kung Fu Panda) I started spreading out the paint…..and then I took more paint and just started playing. I then did something very brave and showed my kids, how their not-so-perfect Mama had decided to redecorate the floor. I got mixed reviews. The eldest was sure that it was a sun, the youngest was sure it was a giant turtle (her latest obsession) and we should add star fish to make it look like an ocean. The middle child just came up and patted me on the back, I’m sure he was thinking, THANK GOD it wasn’t me that spilled it!

I liked the idea of star fish. This is where my art gets abstract or….cave man like?!?! I can’t draw to save my bacon and I’m pretty sure star fish aren’t taupe. At any rate, I dove in and started painting. I doubt I’ll have to live with it long. My husband is NOT into abstract art of any kind, let alone that which has appeared on the bathroom carpet floor. This could be the motivation needed to help him drag the saw and tools out of the barn and back to the house though.

The counters didn’t turn out too bad. I did find a great way to add texture for any of you DIY’ers out there. It’s a mystery ingredient that is sure to cause wonder and awe. Here are the steps:

1. Randomly spill a large quart of rustoleum paint (the really smelly kind that stick to everything, including skin).

2. Next take the large blob of paint and swish it all over the floor or in my case carpet. As you notice this large puddle, simply dip your brush into the mess and apply to your counter top. Paint as fast as you can before the paint dries.

3. Here’s the kicker: The carpet has fuzzies, lots of them. When you dip your brush into the carpet paint, you’ll transfer these fabulous fuzzies directly to your counter top thus creating a very unique “texture”. And you don't have to do a thing but keep on painting!

4. Before you are done, be sure to take your brush and make fun designs all over the floor. This is sure to please your spouse, kids, pets and even guests. And remember there are NO MISTAKES, or ACCIDENTS, these are simply opportunities to exercise your cre8tive genius and showcase new disaster pieces (I’m sure they’ll increase your home's value)

Let me know if you have any questions, or comments. I’m sure that I have just earned my spot on the next segment of Home Improvement. I mean, who wouldn’t want to employ this unique talent?!?! And God forbid it go untouched, unused and unappreciated!

Happy Painting!

Master of Disaster

2011-07-14T12:57:00.001-07:00

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Feels like vacation?

2011-07-13T14:27:00.001-07:00

If I didn't know better, Id say my body/mind must have decided to take a mini vacation today. Try as I might, I can't force another task to be done. I've taped the walls and sinks in preparation for counter paint. Perhaps tomorrow? This is rare for me, as if I've run out of energy, drive and motivation.....all at once! What's quite interesting/disturbing is.....Im not bothered in the least. The kids have been hounding me to watch a movie with them and today....they got their wish = Mama time! Harry Potter whatever whatever is about to start. I think they've already seen it a dozen times. No matter, we're all hanging out together and Im soooo good with just sitting....at 4:30 in the afternoon (*rare) Im throwing the anchor overboard for now. More from the deck later. Perhaps I will learn a house clearing or stop-the-kids-from-fighting spell?! My only question, since I'm on vacation is who is going to cook us supper tonight? Wait....I suppose there's a spell for that too!

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So cute!

2011-07-12T09:16:00.001-07:00

I adore the old illustrations!

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I won't be cutting these illustrations out. I did buy a couple of books specifically for some decoupage projects. Birds are my selected subject matter and the older the book the better! My favorite buy of the day is a 1936 book with feathers on the cover and delightful colored illustrations. It was a whopping $2.00 score!

I'm not sure what the finished project is going to look like; I cannot wait to get started! I'll post as I go for those who are still with me!

Bird books!

2011-07-12T09:14:00.001-07:00

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Bird cage!.

2011-07-12T09:12:00.001-07:00

I bought this to put in the bathroom. My intention was to paint it yellow, but I sure do like the vibrant orange!

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Newest (old apron)

2011-07-12T08:49:00.001-07:00

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I just had to add this to my collection. I didn't have a cheery yellow one. (Yes, someday I really need to learn how to sew!)

Treasures!

2011-07-12T08:29:00.001-07:00

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Hi Friends,

If I have any blog followers left, let me just say thanks so much for tuning in and checking back. This has been my busiest summer on record. I’m not sure if it is the combination of my children getting older and being involved in more activities, or if it’s some wiring issue in my brain that makes me think I have more time than I do, to get in all the tasks that I need to. Perhaps it is a combination of both? I don’t remember being this busy ever. In the midst of all the actions, I’ve noticed my dreams and personal visions have shifting in discernable ways. Three years ago I was really into knitting and all things domestic. I jumped in and embraced by agricultural background. I grew a garden and learned how to preserve food. I brought in chickens for eggs, goats for milk. I made meals from scratch, unpacked my suitcase and put it in storage. I put down roots, deep ones.

Everything changes, this we know. Sometimes we may not be fully aware of those changes but they continue with, or without our conscious awareness. We can feel these shifts and even look to the outside to confirm that we are indeed in the midst of changes, yet, I think it’s normal to still not have a clue of how exactly situations are going to turn out, let alone what they will shape up to be until we are fully in them.

I thought by this year I’d be selling my goods at the Farmer’s Market, stocking my kitchen with an array of baked and preserved goods. I’d watch the chickens peck and turn the soil while I sipped my morning coffee. I’d make delicious goat cheese and soap. My garden would be plush and thriving. Perhaps I’d finally have a clothes line and a garage with ample storage, maybe even a back yard that wasn’t decorated in knee high weeds?

My reality though has shifted significantly. I still have chickens and goats. The girls are slacking off in their laying and the goats have escaped milking for the most part. We’ve been so busy that we hadn’t even made it to the garden to reclaim the onions that were planted in April. Our lives seemed to hit fast forward and for the entire month of June, it was all we could do to hang on.

This week is offering me a much needed opportunity to catch my breath. I ponder all the changes, shifts, jumps, bumps and dives that we’ve experienced since January and especially since June and I’m truly in awe. The busy times are forcing me to identify priorities. In the midst of laundry, dishes, housework, child care, animal care, writing, client sessions, golf, baseball and rodeo (not listed in prioritized order) there hasn’t been much time for me. “Me time” is important and yet it can be one of the easiest aspect of my life to push back.

Yesterday I rediscovered my love for creative ventures and old treasures. After the errands and orthodontist appointments we hit the used book store and antique shop. I’ve had several craft projects in mind, yet the time hasn’t been supportive to “dabble”. I love to let my heart lead my mind and wander about looking, appreciating and thinking of all the ideas that arise within me.

We found some great treasures; small, old bottles, a yellow and white apron, some great old bird books and a super nifty orange and yellow bird cage!

This week I’ll be repainting some old furniture that I salvaged from a discard pile. I also aim to paint my bathroom counter tops. I have some twigs that I plucked from a fence clearing mission back in April that will be painted canary yellow to go in the bathroom. That is if everything today goes as planned. So far so good.

Oh how I LOVE to decorate with old things. I’ve always known that about myself but yesterday seemed to solidify something deep in my soul. I had a vision refurbishing an old building and setting up my own antique store. I do not fancy myself as a business owner, I have no aptitude for sales or crunching numbers, let alone worrying about how to make rent. What I would love is the thrill of “hunting”, the joy of renovating an old building and decorating it with vintage and flea market finds. I know where my talents lie, perhaps I need a business partner that enjoys the more linear aspects while I exercise my talents in the astehtic and appearances department?! I’d want an old building with great character, soft comfy chairs and a place to read and drink coffee. Anyone care to join me here?!?!

In the meantime, here are some pictures of yesterday’s fabulous finds!

*Pictured above are the cute litte bottles we scored. I added the guinea feathers and dried rose. These bring a smile to my face as they perch on the kitchen window ledge.

2011-06-30T15:14:00.001-07:00

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Cowboy Quote of the Day: "Nature is wabi-sabi's mistress." ~Robyn Griggs Lawrence

Sometimes it’s the little things that make us pause with wonder. It seems I’ve been on the go for so long now, I don’t remember what it was like to have much down time. I’ve noticed that even our vacations and recreation time are filled with going, doing and exploring. One thing we can never claim is that we’re bored.

I’ve recently picked up a great little book titled “Simply Imperfect” by Robyn Griggs Lawrence (great name!) and I must say, it’s the perfect anecdote for a busy life. Though I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to embrace the principles of doing less, and doing it at a slower pace, I’d like to try. The aspect of the book that does resonate is the idea of honoring imperfection. For years, I’ve picked up random natural things to use in my decorating scheme; broken turkey eggs, pine cones, soap weed pods, wild flowers have all graced my tables, mantle and kitchen window.

Tuning into what others might dismiss as mundane and ordinary allows us to notice and appreciate aspects of our lives that would have otherwise gone undiscovered, such as this double blossomed dandelion. My special flower girl came waltzing into my office this morning and plopped it in front of my face! “I found something cool for you Mama,” she said as she handed me the single stemmed flower. “It has two on top!” She then skipped out of the office, leaving me with her find. I pondered this simple treasure for quite some time.

I realize that some people refer to these yellow plants as weeds but I’ve actually grown quite fond of them. Dandelion tea is delicious and refreshing. The roots make an especially robust, coffee flavored drink and the leaves are one of my favorite salad ingredients. Though my husband would love to spray the pesky invasion, I usually manage to persuade him to leave the boundaries past the lawn “wild and untamed”. This is where Pryce journeys out to pick me a wild bouquet in the mornings. Not on a regular basis, just when she thinks I need some flowers!

This was a loving reminder that even something as ordinary as a dandelion can hold wonder and delight if we are willing to pause long enough to contemplate and fully appreciate the gift being offered.

Lawrence shares, “Natural beauty is priceless. We can take in and appreciate a great view because we don’t have any home of owning it, and we can’t manipulate it (positively or negatively) to match our will. We don’t think we can improve on nature, so we witness it with the innocence of someone who’s powerless. With out egos out of the way, we can simply observe.”

Truly this blossom will fade and will be returned to the earth from which it grew. There’s no way to preserve it, only the image from the camera will remain and the gentle memory along with it.

We can appreciate what is here today, knowing that tomorrow, things around us may look and feel differently. Always there is an opportunity to stop, open and witness the natural beauty and abundanct blessings that are always present for those who are purposely looking.

Here’s wishing you a joyful Independence Day celebration. May the precious gifts of freedom, family and friends surround you.

Summer Time, Right?

2011-06-21T07:46:00.001-07:00

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Cowboy Quote of the Day: “Take nothing on its looks; take everything on evidence. There’s no better rule.” ~Charles Dickens

Happy First Day of Summer! For this sun-loving girl, I sure am bummed that I woke up to high winds and 56 degree temps. Brrrr! This is certainly not the way I had envisioned the first day of my favorite season.

What’s your ideal vision of summer? Mind involves a plush green, freshly mowed yard, (I secretly love the smell of cut grass), a hammock and a good book. Summer to me is fireflies and campfires flickering in a sultry, drawn out evening. Summer is rocking on the glider and staring at the moon and stars, wondering how I got so lucky to be right here. It’s the time when I get up with the sun, not because I have to but because it shines right on my face and gentle reminds me that a new day is on its way. Summer is slowly winding throughout the day, choosing what I will do or not do, focusing on nature and all of her splendor. Summer is crickets chirping, sprinklers running and weeds growing faster than my garden. Summer is laughter and lazy afternoons that wink at me and pretend to last forever. Summer always exists in my mind but I’m grateful when it finally becomes reality. Like the blossom of a flower, it’s short lived but I enjoy every moment and savor it like ice cream.

So it’s a couple of days behind. I’ve waited this long, a few more days probably won’t hurt.

Keep On Trucking and then....take a break!

2011-06-17T14:03:00.001-07:00

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Cowboy Quote of the Day:

“Push yourself again and again. Don’t give an inch until the final buzzer sounds.” ~Larry Bird.

Hi folks, back to blogging! My cowboy buddy, Ross, has been sending me some fantastic quotes but sadly I haven’t taken the time to write. I could do a quick blurb here and there on my phone but the keyboard is rotten (I got the droid x for a bigger reading screen and great camera, typing is difficult!)

We’ve had a busy spell since returning from our trip to Moab. I dare say a part of me perhaps stayed behind and has yet to catch up to the present me that has been trying to find some stability. We’ve had very late nights and unusually early mornings.

Our weeks are currently filled with baseball, golf, baseball, rodeo and a bit of laundry and dishes thrown in here and there. I’ve coached my children in the art of “drop your pants and the door and then head to your bedroom because I probably won’t make it down to the basement for another month. If you want clean clothes you’d better help me out!” So far we’ve been fine, they just had to wear slightly damp baseball pants to the game the other night.

I am declaring a time out as of, well, NOW! I’ll be coasting for a few days. I have a date with a great book and a hammock, perhaps a little golf, college baseball world series, and an attempt to do as little as possible. Looking back this spring, I really pushed, I felt like I spent the entire spring climbing a big mountain, so I made a promise that I would S L O W down, savor the summer and let a few things go that I would normally push myself to get done, finish, clean up, clarify and/or complete!

Don’t get me wrong, I think agree with ‘ol Larry’s above quote but I’m pretty sure he didn’t state those words in the month of June!

Have a relaxing weekend friends!

* “Victorious rock climbers” pictured above: Chad, Josh, Parker, Pryce and Brecken! Yay…way to work hard in the desert!

We love Jeeps

2011-06-01T09:48:00.001-07:00

Hi folks! We are on the go go go. I will be travel details when my breath catches up with me and I have a larger keyboard!

We rented a Jeep today. We have a trail to conquer. It beat the dually last year and we never made it to the top. Today....we will! I'm snapping pics like crazy and have some amazing shots to share!

Happy Trails!
RJ

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Rock Art!

2011-05-28T08:27:00.001-07:00

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Moab: Day One

2011-05-27T13:05:00.003-07:00

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Cowboy Quote of the Day:
“The most rewarding things you do in life are often the ones that look like they cannot be done,” ~Arnold Palmer

This is probably one of my all time favorite quotes that Cowboy Ross has sent so far! It’s very consist with my life and where I find myself to be right now. I’ve experienced one of the most active and intense cycles of my life this past spring. I know I’m in a location of transformation and change and I’ve done my best to keep things in perspective. Remaining positive is not always easy and I don’t hold myself to being that way all time; I prefer being “real” so that means I honor those down days and times when I am feeling less than motivated.

The “reward” for all my hard work has been knowing that I’d be heading to a favorite hiking spot in Moab. It really never looked like it was something I could do. We’d talked about it but when it came right down to it, there was always some reason to go somewhere else….kids weren’t big enough, too far, hot, the list goes on and on….In fact I pretty much put the idea out of my mind for a good long time. Last summer we head a break in the action and decided we’d give it a try. Driving 11+ hour in a car with three children under 11 (at that time) was not an image that I relished. And would they be able to keep up with their long-legged fathers stride? I sure can’t, I’m always bringing up the rear because there’s usually a cool photo op or a lizard or a flower or a rock…..!

My worries were unfounded. Moab was amazing. The people were super friendly, (much like being back at home) and we had an blast. We hiked over 20 miles throughout the four days were there and the kids kept up beautifully. The area is vastly different from good ol Nebraska. It’s mostly rocks and rugged land. There’s something magical about being there, especially hiking on a full moon night. It’s evolved into one of my favorite locations on the planet, simply because it is so unique. I have no plans of ever moving here, which is strange and funny because I usually always want to relocate to the place I’m visiting. However, that was not the case, I have no intention of making the place a permanent residence but I do plan to visit…..often. It’s also rare that all five of us like the SAME place.

So I’ve held my breath for the past two weeks hoping that it all worked out and it did. Everything that needed to get done so we could go, was. I was wondering that at 9:30 last night when Pecos was picking lettuce and spinach to take a long! We left at 10 pm, which may seem strange. Thanks to many years of night driving to rodeos, I was able to get us down the road a piece. I was done at 1:15 am, at which point I didn’t care where I slept! I can’t even tell you where we stayed because Chad drove another hour and a half! We put the anchor down and shut our eyes.

We were up this morning pretty early (I keep forgetting to put in light blocking devices in the camper). We dressed, walked the dog and loaded up. We’ve been driving most of the day with the exception of two stops thanks to Sparky (he needs his own “potta porty” as BS calls it!

We’ll arrive in Moab within the next two hours and from there, we’ll see where the red rocks take us! I’m so excited to be back in this country. There’s something deeply comforting and healing here. I can’t quite put my fingers on what it is exactly, a feeling or an energy perhaps. Whatever it is, it feels great and I like it!

Tomorrow I’ll be stopping into my favorite Gear Heads store to fill up with water and browse the smart wool socks. I have a feeling they will remember me…I was a familiar face last year!

I’ll be posting throughout the week and when I have service. We’ll be in an extremely remote location for a couple of days. We scoped it out last year and thought it would be cool to camper there (with a camper that we didn’t have at the time!) My cousins Josh and Brecken are already there and another Jeni, will join us tomorrow. It should be a fun, fun time!

I’m very grateful for this opportunity. It took a heck of a bunch of orchestration to pull this off the ground! Looking at our schedule for June, July and August this was about the only time we could fit in a vacation. We’ll return home to baseball, rodeos, camping, the river, and great times with friends. This feels like a pretty terrific way to kick off summer!

Just crossed the UTAH line! Whoot Whoot! We’re ready to get our hike on!

I'd like to thank the cute "biker chick" in the photo above for posing! She was very excited about finding a helmut for our bike excursions this week. She's modeling inside Good Will where she and I scored three bike helmuts, two pairs of baseball cleats, and three skirts (one of which was a Title Nine hiking "skort".) Oh I I LOVE gifts from the Universe like these!

2011-05-27T13:05:00.001-07:00

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Stop N Smell the Lilacs

2011-05-23T11:26:00.001-07:00

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Hi folks! I'm resuming my blog posts for a brief time this week. School is out, brandings are done and we've recently celebrated the beautiful nuptuals of one of my six boy cousins. It was a gorgeous and fun filled weekend and I'll get pics and a video posted as time allows.

This week we have much to do and only four short days to get it all done in before we head out to Moab. I am calling it a vacation but it may not be all that relaxing and quiet, we have much to see and do!

In the meantime, today is ESPECIALLY GORGEOUS! This is the ideallic spring day that exists always in my dreams and only rarely in my reality. The warm weather and ample sunshine make it difficult to concentrate on the Ki Previews but it is certainly conducive to free flowing thoughts and writing (which I DO appreciate!)

Since I don't know how many of you actually read this blog I have no idea if you've missed my postings or not.....so if I have a few Cre8tive Cowgirl fans out there, please know that I will be posting from the road, (as service and patience with my phone allow!)

And though it is busy, busy, busy around here I want you all know that I did take time to stop and smell the roses or in my case lilacs! This is one of my all time favorite sights and smells of the season. They flood my being with nastalgic memories of growing up on the Frauen Ranch and buring my nose deep inside Great Grandpa Jake's bountiful shrubs. Our four little twigs are now looking more full and robust so I couldn't help but pluck a stem to sniff while I let my fingers do the walking this afternoon.

Have a wonderful week!

Giving It Our All

2011-05-02T14:13:00.001-07:00

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Cowboy Quote of the Day:
"Don't cheat the world of your contribution. Give it what you've got."
~Steven Pressfield

I am doing my best to maintain a postive, happy attitude during the busiest months of my life (If you've seen my April flash by, would you kindly pass her on back to me? Thanks!)

I am in the midst of finishing up three classes from CSC's on-line library media program and while I'd like to say I've "aced" them, that would not be the truth, actully would be far from the truth in some aspects. What I have aced is my ability to learn, grow and remain ever so humble. If I thought I was "mart" in any way, that theory has been extremely tested.

Here are my contributions to the world this week:

One messy house that needs someone who has the time, talent and attention to bring her back into shape. By the look of my May calendar that is an unlikely possibility.

Two boys with really shaggy hair (if anyone would like to exchange eggs for hair cuts, I could keep you in constant supply. On both accounts)

A very smelly Marley that shouldn't be allowed in the house but he gets to come into the craft room and keep my feet warm anyway. I get over the smell after 15 minutes or so.

One authentically, genuine happy heart. For all the things I have going on, even if I am walking just to the edge of sheer meltdown and overwhelm, I feel very blessed for the many activities, discoveries and support that I've received. I do feel that I have some of the best pals in the Universe!

My final contributions include good doses of humor (something that has gotten me though this past ridiculously busy month) a diversion away form perfectionism (if the target lands anywhere close to the mark I'm calling it a "gimmie" and moving on to the next obstacle)and hopefully because of my current reality, I'm helping to shape independent, capable, creative, resourceful little human beings. That may be a stretch but they are going to have multiple opportunites for growth this week!

She Graduates Today!

2011-04-28T08:14:00.001-07:00

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Cowboy Quote of the Day:
"The best way to cheer yourself up is to try to cheer somebody else up."
~Mark Twain

Today marks the last day of Pooh's pre-school career. This is a bittersweet moment but I am embracing it with as much joy as I can muster. This is one excited girl! I think she's headed in a postive direction. She shared with her teachers that when she grows up she wants to be an otter trainer and a paleontologist! (I personally think she should begin with tying her shoes and waking up in a happy mood but maybe that will come?!)

I am at the end of a very busy week. I will be happy to complete my responsibilites and obligations but I have to say I am looking forward to some serious downtime....seriously. With the study of the nine star ki cycles I have a pretty good idea of what is going on, at least good enough to make sense of the world and happenings around me. That said the only thing I can control is my perception and how I react to the outside world. I feel like I've been riding on a roller coaster; experincing the most supreme highs and some very low places in there too. I think the key for me (and maybe for you as well) is allowing both happiness and sadness to be in my field as well as releasing the idea that there is nothing "set in stone". Everything changes; the sooner my being consciouly adopts this (it isn't always mind over matter) the more freedom I will feel.

Wherever you are today, whatever you've been fighting for, holding on to very tightly and struggling with or against, I'm going to offer you a radical approach.....just let go. I think there's peace in that.

Mom of the Year

2011-04-27T14:28:00.001-07:00

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Cowboy Quote of the Day:

"You can motivate by fear and you can motivate by reward. But both those are temporary. The only lasting thing is self motivation."
~Homer Rice

I used both fear and reward to motivate my children today. I am now preparing for the shiny "mom of the year" award that I am sure will follow this post.

Today was the dreaded "dentist day". It's a nasty word in this house. Of the five of us, this is the least favorite health professional we see. (No offence Dr. Simpson and staff, you all are great!) Our trip this morning entailed a four tooth extraction for Sparky, a check-up for Pecos and not one darn toy for BS. The tooth extraction was a bit rough. And I have to admit, I felt a bit terrible that I agreed to allow my nine-year-old to have four baby teeth yanked from his melon. The upside (hence: motivation) is that the pain would be a one-time deal (until he suffers the agony of braces in July.) If we took all those pearly whites out at once, he wouldn't have to repeat the process again in two months (and in the meantime feel lopsided until June. That's a plus, right?!

Pecos got off easy but not for long. He's got fillings that need to be replaced and a couple of lingering baby teeth that are going to be evicted as of June. They have the option to leave on their own....(encouragement AND motivation?!?!)

BS got off faily easy with the exception that she didn't get a single toy (*tears). However, she did score a cool new tooth brush, water bottle and pencil when she got her Kindergarten immunizations. Wow....lots of tears, and screaming there. I apologized to the sweet nurse and promised that she'd not see this child again until seveth grade.

Oh no, we're not done yet. Ol good buddy Pecos shed more than a few tears with his required seventh grade immunizations too. I figured since we were in already in town we might as well get as many things knocked of the to-do list as possible. In the eyes of my children that is translated as "let's see what else Mom can put us through today."

Long story short, all three walked out of WCDH bawling and lamenting about what a mean mom they have. They completely overlook the fact that most of the time they have clean socks and underwear and do not often go without food. They forget about the dollars good ol mother doles out for baseball gloves, pants and shoes, the rodeo entry fees and the occasional movie tickets. Nope none of that was remembered.

I did try to "soften" the pain buy doing what any uber-organized, caring mother would do....took them through the BK drive through. I know, I had a moment of extreme weakness. Ice cream for all, they got to choose the songs on the ipod (complete torture for me) and gradually the tears dried.

It's days like this that I smile. Most of the memories of my children are happy ones; I can't rightly recall a day when I got all three of them to bawl at the same time. Usually it's two against one, or one picking on the other, but ALL THREE?! Wow, I am TOTALLY MOTHER OF THE YEAR!

Now, where do I go to get that medal?!

Getting Cozi

2011-04-26T10:08:00.001-07:00

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"A little knowledge is a dangerous thing."
~English proverb

Are you Cozi? I’m getting that way! I’ve just found a stellar calendar and family organizer that I thought would be fun to share with my readers. This is a free website on the computer and is also available as an application for Android and Iphone users

Once you download the app, you can customize it to match your family members. It comes with a calendar, to do list, shopping lists and even an on-the-go Journal which can be made into a web page and linked with your Facebook account.

To do lists, shopping lists and reminders can be emailed to all members of the family (providing 1. they have an email 2. they check it!) These lists can also be sent as text messages for your on-the-go busy spouse and kids.

I’m always on the lookout for good (free) organizers for myself and clients. This is one I will share in my classes this fall. I am a perpetual calendar buyer (though I usually abandon them around the first of June!) I do however “keep my life” in my phone and have found it to be so much easier to keep track of a pen and notebook. I was forever misplacing my grocery list and one thing is for sure, I always have my phone with me!

What I love about this app is that the calendar and phone are linked so what I type in one shows up in the other! So cool! (sadly, I've spent the morning checking this out so I could bring you this wonderful information!) Clearly it is easy for me to find such positive distractions.

Accordin to the Robyn J. to-do list, I should be getting off of here and accomplishing something. The problem with such a great app is that is doesn't actually DO the work ;( At any rate, here's the website! http://www.cozi.com/

Dad n Daughter

2011-04-25T09:18:00.000-07:00

Cowboy Quote of the Day:
"You can't turn back the clock but you can wind it up again." ~Bonnie Prudden

If you've been reading this blog then you already know I've had a bit of a struggle with my current transition. It is amazing to think that six years ago today we brought home our teeny tiny girl. I snapped this photo one evening after Chad had got done fixing fence. I loved the dark blue sky in the background and though I don't remember for sure, I plunked the girl in his arms and said, "smile"! He's always a really good sport.

I have been lamanting about the passage of time and how much I'm going to miss having my girl at home with me in the fall, however I want to dispell any possibility that I miss it enough to have another! We're good.

We are certainly going to be winding up the clock this summer. I am pretty excited that the kids are all old enough to be riding and roping, hiking camping, swimming golfing,fishing and participating with us on our various adventures. Typcially Chad is getting ready to rodeo right about now, though he mentioned the other day that he may not go as hard as he did in the past. This was unwelcome news to the boys who did their best to encourage him to continue (they LOVE to go to rodeos and have learned that it gets them out of lawn mowing and other less-than-fun tasks about the place.) We'll see what happens, if he so chooses to stay at home, we have more than enough projects to keep him busy.

Baseball starts soon. Followed by golf league, starting for me tomorrow night (c'mon weather, straighten up will ya?!) We have horses that need to be legged up, a garden to finish planting, various outside projects that I only feel like doing when the sun is out. We have brandings, a wedding and, AND, AND a trip to Moab at the end of May! (I'm so excited I can hardly contain myself!) I have a feeling we are in for a busy, fast paced summer. So instead of looking back I am focused on embracing all that is coming down the line. This spring has required focus and determination and now I am ready for a ~~little~~ a lot of FUN!

What is it that you are MOST looking foward to this summer?

I'm hooked!

2011-04-24T09:39:00.001-07:00

Cowboy quote of the day~ "Time you enjoy wasting, was not wasted" John Lennon

It is said that a bad day fishing is better than a good day of work. After yesterday I couldn't agree more. We spent yesterday afternoon fishing with friends for Pooh's birthday.

I grew up with a grandads, dad and a brother who love fishing. I went along but never really embraced the sport. Fishing was a chance to sit by water, relax and read. Chad and I have taken the kids fishing a couple of times. They are good sports but they know if they want catch something other than moss they should solicit expert guidance.from Uncle Carl or our friend, Joe.

That changed yesterday. I left my book at home and vowed to pay attention. It paid off! She who shall remain nameless (wouldnt want to brag) is now a fishing convert. I couldnt have done it alone though....I had an adorable cheerleader, shocked boys, a patient coach, who helped land the catches and bait the hooks, and a Chad that is thinking "oh no, she's wants to learn something else"!

In truth, I got lucky, really lucky. And I have a long way to go before I could go alone. Hooking worms, landing the fish, getting it of the hook and then cleaning it is more than I know how to do. I learned a lot though and it was a fun way to spend Pooh's birthday!

And the best part, I didnt do a stitch of work. I think l'll be fishing a lot more!

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Happy Easter!

2011-04-22T12:47:00.001-07:00

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Cowboy Quote of the Day:
"No pain, no palm; no thorns, no throne; no gall, no glory; no cross, no crown." ~William Penn

I love this quote sent via Cowboy Ross. It speaks volumes about the holiday as well as what many family, friends and clients are encountering this month. Personally I feel like I've had a few more challenges and perceptions of restirction that I like to entertain. Yet without the darkness we may not appreciate the light. Without the challenges, the smooth times may not as sweet.

Polarity is continual aspect of our reality. We don't live in a utopian, dream world. It's real, it's gritty and sometimes raw. We can feel sliced to the bone and hit in the knees one minute and in the next, we may be dancing on the deck and singing praises. It's hard to sing praises when we feel low, yet that is the very time those praises carry us; in our deepest darkest challenge there also exists slivers of light, if we dare scan for them. Sometimes the light isn't visible to the eye but it can always be felt, within our hearts and souls. That light never goes out.

Easter is a wonderful time of renewal and reflection. We have an opportunity to begin again, start fresh and live life from a place of deep appreciation and awareness. Every day is a gift, filled with both hills and valleys. How we choose to navigate is up to us; and if we choose to see the challenges and any darkness, we can also find its polar opposite. The yin and yang. I dare say the world is big enough for both. Balance comes when we effeciently recongize the two and find our "happy place" right in the center; our hearts already know how to do this.

I'd like to extend a joyful Easter message to everyone, may you be blessed with an abundance of peace, hope and love. I may be taking a blog break as we'll celebrate Pooh's 6th birthday and a delicious Easter dinner at the Johnston Ranch.

Happy Hopping!

Muddin

2011-04-21T12:30:00.000-07:00

For those of you not on Facebook and are wondering what to do with all the melted snow/rain this spring, here's a novel idea, demonstrated by my lovely assistant Pryce (aka Blue Sparkle, Pooh, Lizzie Beans).

For those of you on Facebook that also find your way to my blog, sorry to overload you all with the same videos. Practice makes perfect-o!

Happy Easter, Happy Spring, Happy, Happy Everything~

Pryce's Clock Demo

2011-04-21T12:15:00.000-07:00

I finally figured out how to embed videos

Come On Out Here Mafia Wives

2011-04-20T07:26:00.001-07:00

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Cowboy Quote of the Day:
"My computer beat me at checkers, but I sure beat it at kickboxing."
~ Emo Philips

Every now and then I’ll turn on tv and listen to the morning news while I tidy up the kitchen. It’s not like coffee, I can go without GMA. Today I listened/watched with amusement as they interviewed four “mafia wives”. Interesting; I saw their fancy dresses and footage of the one with long black hair and a fur coat getting into the back of the car to be driven to who-knows-where.

The next image I saw was a greening pasture with seven horses grazing in the south pasture. I looked at my attire, white shirt with turquoise roses and my old “chore” pants. I’m dressed pretty nice from the waist up, no reason to wear anything decent for feeding animals. I’ll put on something “town worthy” in a couple of hours when I join BS at Kindergarten Round Up.

Thinking further, if producers truly wanted to create a captivating reality show, they should bring the mafia wives here, to a Midwestern farm-ranch location. I bet those gals, "glamed out" in their stilletos, would have had a ball fixing fence with us the other night. Oh it was a joy, let me tell you. It took only two hours to cut brush and overgrown plumb thickets out of the fence line and another hour to dig post holes, stretch the decrepit wire and pound staples in. The finish product looks like a work of art, the likes of which I doubt will ever make it to an east coast gallery, but it should. A straight fence says a lot……………

Times Marches On

2011-04-19T10:52:00.000-07:00

Cowboy Quote of the Day:

"Don’t cry because it’s over. Smile because it happened."

~Dr. Seuss

Tomorrow is a day that I have not been looking forward to. I knew it would come and yet there’s a part of me that’s been silently resisting it. My baby goes to Kindergarten Round-up tomorrow. She turns six on Saturday. The time has literally flashed before my eyes.

I think back to this week six years ago. I was completing my last week of teaching 5th and 6th graders. They had a fun little party and on Friday night I went home with the idea that I’d take the following week to play with Parker and get the baby room set up. I hadn’t had that much time to myself in…..(well, since 1998 when Pake was born!)

It wasn’t to be though. We went to a wedding reception in Sutherland the next evening and by 11:36 that night, we welcomed a tiny, adorable baby girl into our hearts. I have LOVED every minute of being home with her. I have not once looked back and wished for anything differently. And now, as time rolls on, we begin a new chapter.

Pryce is more than ready to go to school. She is happy and enthusiastic about learning. I can’t say that I am ready for the transition yet I know resisting it is pointless. I am smiling on all that has happened, truly we’ve been blessed with so many joyful experiences and I trust that we will continue to be. This is a milestone, the first of many that we’ll encounter together.

I know things change. We can’t possibly stop changes that are a natural part of the reality we live in. We also don’t do ourselves justice by living in the past and replaying those happy times because in doing so, we miss the gifts that are directly in front of us right now.

I have a lot of reasons to smile and the tears just affirm that I feel deeply, magically, unconditionally loved and blessed.

Learning To Dance......

2011-04-16T15:07:00.001-07:00

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Today's Cowboy Quote of the Day:
"Life isn't about waiting for the strom to pass, it's about learning to dance in the rain" ~author unknown

Happy Saturday Friends! I don't always post on the weekends but today I am in my office, working to get a jump on the week. I'd be foolish if I thought I had the luxury of time on my side. I don't. What I do have is the awareness that I need to be efficient and work smart. The next two weeks are going to be jam-packed full. I am living life fast forward so the more I can get done in my downtime, the easier I'll breathe when I'm right in the midst of it all.

For me, this means having the house picked up and tidy so that I can find things easily. It means setting realistic time lines and staying on task, resisting distractions and streamlining my energies. And the most important aspect is not just doing all these activites and meeting these requirements and responsiblities, it's about enjoying the entire process.

I've amended today's Cowboy Quote slightly to match the nice day we are having; "It's about learnign to dance in the sunshine when you feel like you have to much to be doing! Go ahead and do it anyway!" RJ

I'm outta here to go hang with the goats and chickens.

Worth the Risk

2011-04-15T10:09:00.001-07:00

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I’d like to formally introduce my friend, Ross. He sends me a cool “cowboy quote” every day. He’s done this without fail and it has become something I look forward to. I thought it would be fun to start sharing these with my fabulous blog readers!

Today’s Cowboy Quote of the Day:

“If you don’t risk anything, you risk even more” ~Erica Jong

As children most of us are taught to “play safe”. Because our parents love us so much, they try their best to prevent harm from happening to us. I’ve caught myself saying the same thing to my kids as my parents said to me, “Don’t do that!"

So despite all of those good intentions of keeping us from harm, we may also learn to avoid risks, preferring predictable, “safe” boundaries to make sure our bodies and our lives stay right on track. Though there’s nothing inherently wrong with playing it safe, it may also prevent us from really living, really knowing the depth of our character, our true strengths and how amazing we actually are.

Please know that I am not advocating dare devil invitations here. I am saying that sometimes we can, and should, do things that scare us, temporarily erasing the protective boundaries we’ve created. These boundaries can be self-protective mechanism, primarily to keep our fragile egos from feeling, embarrassment, fear, disappointment, inadequacy and the slurry of other human emotions some of us work really hard to keep hidden.

I say, do what you most love, focus on this and you’ll be guaranteed to experience the gamut of emotions that ensue on your road to success.

Specifically speaking, I started taking guitar lessons. This is an instrument that I’ve wanted to play since I was four. I remember playing on yard stick, tied with a string around my neck, while watching Hee Haw at Grandma Ruth and Grandpa Otto’s house. It’s never left me. A friend sold me her guitar about six years ago. I got it out of the case twice and put it away. My mind told me I’d never learn to play and it was too late in my life to ever be really good. Truth usually sounds and feels differently than the mind. The timing just wasn’t right.

In fact, the timing may never be right for things that we are hesitant to try. There are a myriad of excuses that can keep us safely protected from feeling anything that might cause us, embarrassment, pain, shame, fear and feeling defeated. If we’re feeling these things before we even start, why initiate the event in the first place? Usually because they are only surface “fears”, designed to keep us locked within the safety of our personal boundaries. This is where risk comes into play.

Are we willing to forgo the way we see ourselves in every day light, in contrast to the greatest vision we know we carry? Are we willing to push through those old cell memories of past failures and inadequacies to get to a higher level of experience? If we are then the risk is minimal in comparison to the outcome. And this becomes your “fearless driving rain”.

I risked seeing myself at something that I am NOT good at and have little natural talent for. I risked moving into a world that I knew nothing about; I’m not an authority and the only thing I have going is that I can sort of read music. Want to take a stroll in humility? Find something that you can’t do, at all, and start learning it!

I will likely never be on a stage, in front of a crowd of screaming, adoring fans (so there’s my fantasy!) I’ll probably not be belting out my favorite melodies to anyone other than my dog, the goats and chickens. What I am doing is risking my own self image, seeing, living and fully embracing the image of my clumsy, non-nimble fingers trying to make a cord sound like some sort of music!

This may not sound like a great risk on the scale of “things to do with your life” but it’s one that is teaching me a great deal. There’s no room for perfection, the goal is simply to be in the moment, and learn in a new, kinesthetic way, the likes of which I am most unaccustomed to. I am learning that I can’t just read and master something, it requires the “DOING” aspect. Repetition and consistency are what get me over the hump here; and yes, these are my weak areas (I usually can stick with a diet/exercise routine for about a week before I’m bored or distracted!)

So what is it that you are willing to risk? What is something that you’ve always wanted to try yet you’ve pushed aside? If you were to erase all negative self-talk, what would you set out to do, explore, experience? In other words, if there were so such thing as failure, what would love to succeed at?

You’re only may be holding back from something so amazing it has the potential to change your life. Go ahead, take that risk……..you may find you have everything to gain.

Toad and Salamander

2011-04-11T21:20:00.001-07:00

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As some of you may know, our daughter loves animals. I don’t mean like, I mean LOVE. I recently posted about our “house worm”, Herman Hazel. I must say I never thought that I’d have a child that was so fond of insects, bugs, snakes and the like. While I have a healthy respect for reptiles, they make my skin crawl. I’d developed an intense phobia of them that I am continuing to unwind. I’m a whole lot better around them than I used to be, which is a good thing, because Pryce seems to really enjoy them.

A few days ago, my friend sent a text message sharing that a person in North Platte had a fire belly toad and salamander for sale. Ross knows that our girl is into such creatures and thought of Pryce right away. (I’ve been meaning to introduce Ross to you....he’s the cowboy behind the quotes that I’ll be posting at the beginning of my blogs soon!)

So being the good Mama that I am, I sent a message to the lady letting her know I was interested. Though a series of text messages, we secured what was to be Pryce’s birthday present. The child was ecstatic when I shared that we were going to pick up this early gift. She could hardly contain her joy, “Is it a lizard Mama? ‘Cause I really want a lizard. I love them. I want one of my very own.” I just grinned, praying that a salamander was a lizard in her book and that she’d think the toad was cool……….even if she couldn’t touch it!

We met the girl, got the goods and headed back home. Pryce was strangely silent. I asked what was wrong. She looked at me from her booster seat and screamed, “This is the best birthday present EVER!” I think she was just shocked that I agreed to have these living creatures in the house. For Chad, this was a HUGE stretch, then again, even a dog is pushing it.

I explained very clearly that the frog was not to be touched. She was elated however, to find that she could hold the salamander. I think she picked him up about 10 times on Saturday morning. She gave him a tour of the place and told me that he was very happy in his new home. She also promised to keep her room clean. I even heard that I am the best mom in the world! I sure hope she remembers this when she’s 12 and especially and especially when she’s 16. Is there any way that I can use this as leverage? I’m sure going to try.

Sunshine Chiffon Cake

2011-04-11T13:55:00.003-07:00

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Hi Dear Readers,

Here’s the recipe for yesterday’s Sunday Cake Creation (as pictured on Facebook!) Many asked for the recipe so here it is! It seems that Sunday afternoons are about the only time I have these days for trying out any new recipes. (I think Chad is still in shock, two weekend in a row of new cake creations!) In a conversation with him and one of my best friends last fall, I stated, “You know you’re a REAL cook when you have a Kitchen-Aid mixer!” I had secretly coveted one for years but I never asked for one and I didn’t go out looking either. Last Christmas, “out of the blue” Santa delivered a gorgeous professional model to my kitchen. I squealed with delighted and promised Santa, whom I’m sure, was listening that I would be baking a lot more!

I do think Santa and even my family was wondering if I meant what I said on the Christmas morn; if anyone has been following me around lately, I seem to have my head in a book (not the pleasure kind either), fingers dancing on a keyboard, cleaning/ organizing, a lot of running here and there and not so much baking. I cook but in my mind, this is different from baking. Cooking equals drudgery to me (personal opinion) Anyone can patty up a hamburger and throw it on a grill but it becomes a cre8tive work of art when you use a mixer to add breadcrumbs, herbs and spices to the plain ‘ol burger!
Cooking for me requires that I have a meal out by a certain time and though I may spend hours preparing, it’s only going to take 10 minutes at best to eat. Baking on the other hand is without time frames. I only bake when I have the luxury to enjoy what I’m doing. I set aside time to measure the ingredients, read directions and carefully, consciously enjoy the process. Baking requires clean-up but it seems more calculated and manageable. Maybe that’s all in my head but that’s how it feels to me.

I’ve a list I’ve been keeping in my head of the different recipes I want to try; right now time is my greatest hurdle. I have the motivation I just don’t always have a couple of free hours available. I’ve been attracted to cakes, much to the joy of my family. We don’t eat a lot of sweets. Every now and then I’ll whip up a batch of cookies and we’ll gobble them down as an afterschool snack; more often though we’ll have popcorn, apples, crackers or jerky. I put in some busy days so time in the kitchen is kept to a minimum during the day with evenings reserved for final clean-up. It’s the most used room in the house so as a result, it becomes the messiest, very quickly.

The following cake is a delightful spring version. I used lemon but oranges could easily be substituted out. If I had a garden of cute little pansies, I’d add them to the top for added visual flair. The entire kitchen and dining room smelled of fresh lemon and offered us a delightful afternoon pick-me-up. This would be a great cake for a bridal or baby shower, spring luncheon or Easter dessert.

After zesting the lemons, I cut them into chunks and plopped them into a large jar with tea bags and boiling water. After the water cooled slightly I added ¼ cup of honey and we sipped this with our slice of cake.

Oh and don’t forget to get out that pretty cake plate that’s been sitting in the back of your cupboard! Serving your lovely cre8tions is even more fun this way. I’m making a point of using all those fancy dishes and serving pieces I received some 17 years go!

Also note this recipe was lifted straight out of the Kitchen-Aid manual so that’s who gets the credit! (not me!)

Sunshine Chiffon Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups sugar *or honey
1 Tbs. baking powder
½ tsp. salt
¾ cup cold water
½ cup oil
½ cup oil
7 egg yolks, beaten
1 tsp. grated lemon zest ( I used 4 lemons)
7 egg whites
½ tsp. cream of tartar

Lemon Glaze
1 cup powdered sugar
1 Tbs. butter or margarine, softened
3 Tbs. lemon juice

Combine flour, sugar, baking power, and salt in mixer bowl. Add water, oil, egg yolks, vanilla, and lemon rind. Attach bowl and wire whip to mixer. Turn to Speed 4 and beat about 1 minute. Stop and scrape bowl. Continuing on Speed 4, beat about 15 seconds. Pour mixture into another bowl. Clean mixer bowl and wire whip.

Place egg whites and cream of tartar in mixer bowl. Attach bowl and wire whip to mixer. Turn to Speed 8 whip 2 to 2 ½ minutes, or until whites are stiff but not dry.

Remove bowl from mixer. Gradually add flour mixture to egg whites. Fold in gently with spatula, just until blended.

Pour batter into ungreased 10” tube pan. Bake at 325 for 60 to 75 minutes, or until top springs back when lightly touched. Immediately invert cake onto funnel or soft drink bottle (I used Chad’s Shiner Bock, we don’t buy soda in bottles around here!) Cool completely. Remove from pan. Drizzle with Lemon Glaze and try your hardest to keep family from eating it in one setting!

*To make Glaze: combine powdered sugar and butter in small bowl. Stir in lemon juice, 1 tablespoon at a time, until glaze is desired consistency.

Have Eggs.....Will Bake!

2011-04-11T13:55:00.001-07:00

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Easter At The Farm.....Come Gather Your Eggs!

2011-04-10T11:46:00.001-07:00

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Hi Everyone!

My family and I would like to extend a SPECIAL INVITATION to vist our farm this Easter season. Starting this week, we thought it would be fun to offer families and small groups an opportunity to come visit our farm to gather eggs for coloring, hiding and Easter cooking!

Visitors are welcome to bring a picnic lunch, take a nature walk in the canyon, pet our ponies and play with the goats. Times are by appointment only.

Please bring "farm worthy attire", which means, OLD clothes and shoes! This is NOT a place for anything fancy that you don't want mud, dirt and yes, even poop on! (This is the reality of being on a real farm!) Remember to bring Easter baskets and cameras as there will be plenty of photo opportunities! Additional eggs may be available for purchase, depending on availablity.

The only cost this year is $2.00/dozen eggs. Donations are graciously accepted and any proceeds will be funneled right back into the feed/hay expense for the animals.We're also available for daycare, preschool and elementary field trips. We've had so much fun with our little farm that we thought it would be fun to share it!

To reserve your farm visit, get directions, and ask additional questions, please call 308.362.4426 or send emails to cre8tivecowgirl@gmail.com

We're working on "Summer At The Farm" activities, so please check in from time to time to see what may be coming down the line! We're thinking about offering "camping in the canyon" nights, trail rides, pick your own veggies, jam and canning classes! We're open to suggestions and would love to share our farm experinces with others who may be interested.

Feel free to share this post with others! HAPPY EASTER!!!!!

Cranes and Greens

2011-04-09T12:37:00.001-07:00

In addition to the delight of feeling the sun on my legs for the first time in months, we were also treated to this gorgeous display of sandhill cranes. They soared elegantly over hole #4. I am sure my game didnt look any better from above, but it was GLORIOUS to finally be golfing again. I'll be no good for anything the rest of the day!

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My Little Birdie Tea Cup

2011-04-08T12:02:00.001-07:00

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Sometime I might do a post on our holding vessels. There's something really special about the type, texture and color of our tea cups. I continaully switch on and off, depending on my mood and the type of tea. The newness has not worn off of this one! I've already packed it with me on a day trip. Crazy...I know!

Blueberry Bliss and Pineapple Kona Pop

2011-04-08T12:01:00.001-07:00

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The white pieces.....pineapple the little dark circles dried blueberries and pink flower petals. Not only is this beautiful, but can you smell that? Isn't it amazingly invigorating? It's a PERFECT tea for spring and makes a WONDERFUL cold brew for summer. My kids think this is better than kool-aid.

My Afternoon Indulgence

2011-04-08T11:56:00.001-07:00

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I’ve recently indulged in this lovely canister, filled to the brim with Blueberry Bliss and Pineapple Kona Pop. I don’t usually buy fancy teas, in fact, I most often brew up the herbs from my own garden and those that I purchase in bulk that don’t grow easily or aren’t as prevalent my neck of the woods. When I’m at home, I brew loose leaves, though I take tea bags along whenever I travel. As we all know it’s much healthier than soda and makes water a bit more…..interesting!

About 10 years ago, while taking my professional training to become a Feng Shui Consultant I came across a wonderful store in the mall, Teavana! It lived up to it's name; it was like walking into tea heaven for me. I had a difficult time deciding which ones to buy. Since I was on a tight budget I opted for a couple of small bags. I don’t even remember the name but I do recall it had chocolate pieces and sunflower leaves. I used it very sparingly and made it last for a year.

On a recent excursion, I came across a Teavana store at the Flat Iron Crossing Mall. Heaven, revisited. I only had a short time and their selections had expanded since the last time I walked through the doors. Though at anytime I could buy tea on-line, there’s something special, magical about being in a tea store where you get to smell and savor and taste test! I landed on this combination, and WOW! It was LOVE at first taste. The sample had been sweetened slightly with German Rock Sugar, which I did not purchase. I am blessed with a brother/family that provides me with delectable honey from North Central Nebraska. I also splurged on this adorable tea cup, saucer, strainer and lid…..with BIRDS! (see previous posts if this is confusing!)

I spent 9 years of my life drinking Dr. Pepper at 2 pm to get over the afternoon sludge. When I left teaching to be at home with my daughter, I still experienced tired time and a craving for soda. I replaced that craving with herbal teas. I take a 10 minute break to heat the water, brew the tea and sip. That’s all I do for that time. My mind races, I think of all the things I need to do by the time the kids burst in the door and I don’t respond. I just sip.

I could add up the money I would spend on soda and compare it to the cost of the tea but I can already tell that this canister of tea will last MUCH longer. It also contains vital nutrients. Add the honey super-food and savor; nothing to feel guilty about here! “Thank you Ma’am, I’ll have another!”

What’s your healthy indulgence? Please share in the comment section below.

The House Worm

2011-04-05T12:18:00.003-07:00

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Here's Herman. He is Pryce’s new house worm. She adores him. On Saturday she was helping her dad prepare the garden and she “rescued” him from the tiller. We have a girl that cries at the thought of worms being destroyed yet doesn’t flinch or bawl when her brothers tackle her.

It certainly puzzles me that somehow Chad and I have produced a worm-loving child. Chad will handle them but he’s not a fan. I avoid touching like them; they give me the creeps and they to closely resemble snakes. Pass. In fact, I purposely make sure that I have someone to bait my hook when I go fishing. The boys aren’t especially fond of worms either. Parker announced to his Uncle Carl on a fishing trip one day that he couldn’t touch any worms because he was “allergic” (which totally makes sense to me!) Pake screamed “snake” when he was three. Alas it was just a giant night crawler but that set him back from any love for the little things. Pryce is a different story. She is totally devoted for her worm friend.

Saturday: She came in with what used to be a box that held microwave popcorn. She’d filled the box with dirt and asked if I’d like to meet Herman. I responded with a kind no. She was undeterred and continued to pester. I agreed to have a look. I also announced that Herman would sleep outside on the chair.

Sunday: It was announced that Herman’s new name would be Hazel, but he was still a boy. She asked for a sucker stick so that she could dig up her worm friend. That is when I took this picture. There was worry that Herman had crawled out or that he dried up. We added water to the soil and a lettuce leaf. Worms don’t eat much, I’m told. Happy to find Herman, I mean Hazel she watched him for the better part of an hour. This child clearly does not have ADD, she focused better than some adults I know. Since Hazel had remained in his home. He got to stay in the house, on the metal organizer. I was told not to “broom” him if he crawled out. “Call for me Mom, I’ll come get him and put him back.”

Monday: Hazel’s name was changed back to Herman. His official name is Herman Hazel Johnston, every person should have at least three names, this includes worms. Pryce wanted Herman to join her for pre-school for show and tell. I told her she’d better ask her teachers. At noon she comes in with her daily arrival announcement, “Home, home home!” and “Good news Mama, Miss Colleen said Herman can come to school. We’re going to have an educated worm on our hands. Joy.

Pryce goes to visit and “cuddle” Herman and flips out because she can’t find him. I notice the soil is exceedingly damp. Maybe he drowned. Sad. After some poking and prodding, her tiny hands held up the worm triumphantly, “He’s alive! I think he looks much healther.” Do worms ever look sick? Apparently she picked up that if worms loose their slime they will die. She’s on guard to make sure that doesn’t happen.

I suppose this is one of the cheaper pets around. It is quiet, doesn’t require a lot of maintenance and keeps her well entertained. It makes me wonder what is coming down the road. As a friend pointed out, “her ‘pets’ are sure to get bigger, you may want to be cleaning a shot gone when they come to visit!” When that day comes, I’ll bet I’ll prefer having the worm won’t I?

So while I won’t be inviting Herman into my office to keep me company while I work, I’m loosening up a bit having him in the house. The delight and joy emanating from her is contagious! It’s fun to see her so interested and excited. I too get excited about a lot of things, but worms are not on that list. It will be fun to see if these interests in worms, lizards, snakes and bugs stick with her as she gets older.

What were you interested in as a child? Is that interest still present? Please share in the comment section below. I’m curious to know if the things that we love as children turn out to be career paths that we follow as adults. If this is the case, we may have a “worm herder” on our hands!

Meet Herman Hazel Johnston

2011-04-05T12:18:00.001-07:00

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Sunday Kind of Day

2011-04-03T17:37:00.001-07:00

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Oh Sunday, how I love thee, let me count the ways:

It’s quite amazing what a Sunday can do for the soul. I’ve had an active, week so as of 8 pm last night through 10 am today, I did very little. We spent the evening relaxing and visiting. I confess I did sleep in and… IT WAS GLORIOUS!!!

In fact I was so well rested that I did something completely irrational….I went outside and trimmed both Sami and Egypt’s hooves. Truly disgusting and laboring but with a plugged nose and ample rest, I dove right in. It’s a funny thing: I detest the back-breaking work, yet, once I start it becomes kind of addicting, I have a hard time stopping. It felt good to knock out that job. I wasn’t planning it but I’m very glad it’s out of the way. Two of four isn’t too bad. I'm going to need more rest before I tackle the next eight hooves.

Next, we took a fun family trail ride through the canyons. The kids had been asking me to go with them for the last couple of days. Chad was willing to take them but they begged Mom to hop on and ride along too. I’ve had a lot of responsibilities to take care of lately, so I’d put them off for long enough. I grabbed a cap, sweatshirt and down-filled jacket and prayed that George would be kind to my fragile body.. Chad assured me he had warmed him up but I’m always a bit skeptical. I’ve been dumped one too many times to really trust that! The ride was wonderful. I love looking at the world around me on the back of a horse.

Upon returning, I took advantage of the afternoon’s appearance of space and time and decided to bake an angel food cake…from scratch. I have wanted to try this for several months and again, there always seems to be a time factor lurking. I’m excited to say it turned out beautifully, despite the fact that I left out the salt. It ain't cooking around here unless I forget an ingredient or burn something!

Once dishes were done (I seem to dirty every bowl and spoon in the kitchen~no wonder my cooking episodes are few and far between) I descended into my craft room for three hours of homework/study. Ugg. The seven hours I put in on Friday did pay off. I mainly spent my time double checking and cross-referencing, said a prayer that I would actually get a passing grade and then hit click.

That brings me to this evening: goats needs fed, chickens need locked in, kids are hungry and it’s time to be thinking about our bedtime routine. Even though I slept in, I can say it won’t take much to shut these eyes and drift away. Wishing you a wonderful evening and a fantastic week.

Congrats Pecos!

2011-04-02T18:27:00.001-07:00

What a lovely day! The weather was perfect; the old garden was burned off, the new one tilled. Chad and Pryce planted lettuce and spinach in the raised bed.

Tonight we celebrated Pake's confirmation. His Uncle Jason, Aunt Jenny and little cousins joined us. The Mass was beautiful and supper was delicious! Now we're settling in for a much needed night off; light the firepit and put on some tunes!

Happy Weekend everyone!

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Spring Is Here!

2011-04-01T09:15:00.001-07:00

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I received the first indication that Spring is here. I know that it’s still premature and the chance of snow still lurks, we are in Nebraska after all. We won’t be out of the woods until next month. Three years ago, it snowed on May 1st.

That said, today is the first day that I’ve had the tangible, visceral notation of spring. I don’t know if I can put into words what this feels like to me; every year I wait for this indication, which is more like a subtle nod from Mother Nature. It’s that crisp feeling of exhilaration that comes through when I wake up and see the sun coming in my room, it’s the fresh smell that permeates my office window when I open it and hear the sound of birds chirping.

There's an invigorating breeze coming in,keeping me awake and on the cool side. I type for a bit and then walk into the kitchen where the temperature is significantly warmer. It's not as exciting though, I find myself pulled back to the office window, smelling the fresh air and noticing the green shoots that are pushing up amongst the dead patches of lawn. The sun plays a bit of peek-a-boo amongst thick blue-grey clouds.

I’m feeling more alive, which inevitably comes with this season. Spring isn’t my favorite but it does seem heavenly after a long, cold winter. I forget what it is like to walk out in the morning to do chores with out heavy coveralls, caps, and gloves. I forget how much I missed seeing a plush lawn, feeling warmth on my face when I stand on the deck and noticing the newness of the world around me. This feeling of freshness simply cannot be replicated by any other season.

My Son's Hint

2011-03-31T10:43:00.001-07:00

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This is what I saw on the fridge this morning. Apparently Pecos would like to go to the movie???!!!

It is probably a good idea to get out of the house and away from the computer for a bit.I feel like the keyboard has become my second home and really it's not very comfortable!

I realized that such activities are vital to our balance and well being. It's easy for me to remain in "work mode" though I know that play is also essential.

As an adult, how do you "play"? What activities do you participate in that bring you joy, inspiration, or even relaxation? When you are stressed what is the ritual, event or exercise that brings you into balance?

Whatever is on your plate at this moment, I encourage you to take a time out. Hug your significant other, kids, dogs, horses....goats and give yourself permission to enjoy doing something that beautifully supports YOU. Not doing anything is also a brilliant option, not one that I can possibly entertain at the moment but I'll consider it next month!

Spring Colds

2011-03-30T14:42:00.001-07:00

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Even though winter is supposed to be on its way out, we’ve had a fair share of snow and cold weather. Along with the soggy, early spring season colds and allergies also make their way in. I’ve gotten through the winter with only one nasty flu incident and for the most part I’ve been cold free, save last week. While away from home, my normal care routine, early mornings and late nights, I got run down, creating a perfect environment for a virus. Despite my best intentions, I’m now working with a lovely sinus infection, cough, stuffy nose…..you know, the “works”!

I’m not one to run to the doctor and I do what I can to avoid antibiotics. Maybe this is why they work well for me when I do need them?! Five years ago I landed in the hospital, facing emergency surgery with a swollen tonsil that was blocking my air way. I declined the invitation to go under the knife, assuring the doctors that the antibiotics would work. I knew they would because I rarely use them so I have no immunities built against them.

I’m not a rebel by any means, I’ll go to the doctor if I need to. I don’t like to watch my children suffer but I trust their body’s abilities to heal and will also allow them ample time to work through a cold or flu. I monitor their eating, activity and temperature to make sure they are getting better.

That said I do rely heavily on a variety of healing herbs, decoctions, essential oils and supportive practices to help alleviate symptoms of flu, coughs, colds, etc. My favorite is a combination of blue violet and coltsfoot. Both herbs are lovely to sip after steeping in hot boiling water and straining. Several cups a day keep my throat and body hydrated, not to mention they deliver essential vitamins.

The down side is that this treatment is not usually instant. When I’m sick I want to get better as fast as possible, who doesn’t right?! Though feeling under the weather can give us a chance to appreciate good health, slow down and take care of ourselves. In our fast paced life, we may not always turn the computer off or quit “work” once we reach the sanctuary of our homes. I’m certainly more prone to drive through my to-do list when I feel well as opposed to backing off and slacking a bit when I don’t feel up to par.

Of coarse, I would love to jump out of bed without hacking up the slew of gunk that’s collected in my sinus cavity but the first thing I reach for is usually a tea pot instead of pill or tablet. Like many things in my life, I’m willing to take the long way around. It may take a few more days for me to recover, to fully kick the cold but I learn just as much in the time I’m down. I find ways to re-appreciate my body and how it can heal. I find that I am more grateful when my nose finally comes unplugged or my ears pop open and the pressure is released. Sometimes such discomfort reminds me of these parts of my system that I forget about and/or take for granted. I very much dislike a cold, but I do know that lessons about in every situation.

Herbs can be gathered locally in your backyard. For those like me, who don’t have time they can also be purchased through the internet. I buy in bulk and keep a steady supply on hand. My favorite “go to” herbs are nettle (after it’s brewed, strained and chilled, it’s the most delicious, refreshing green tea around!) blue violet, oatstraw, coltsfoot, peppermint and sage. Rosemary, basil and lavender are also favorites; in addition to teas, they are excellent cooking herbs and favorite bath additions.

The combination pictured above just tastes like home~very soft, soothing and comfortable. It reminds me of slipping into a well worn nightgown after a hot bath. The first sip and subsequent ones, relax me, especially when I can’t slip into something flannel!

If you haven’t explored the world of herb and herbal teas, I encourage you to do so! It’s great fun learning and experimenting. Nothing can relax and ground you after a busy like a steaming mug of chamomile tea (another favorite!) The web is packed full of ideas, resources and recipes but if you’d like my first hand account, further ideas and suggestions, feel free to email me and I’ll share further.

Hot Coffee

2011-03-29T07:46:00.001-07:00

What would I do without my Polar Express mug of hot coffee? The answer: freeze and sleep. Perhaps not in that order......

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Quite the Contrast

2011-03-28T09:27:00.001-07:00

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And this is today's reality. It's quite different, wouldn't you agree?!
Enough is enough is what comes to my mind! For those of you living in or near Nebraska perhaps you join in this view? Don't get me wrong, I enjoy snow, early in the season. There's something lovely about watching a soft snowfall in front of a wood stove, good book in hand, cup of coffee nearby, quilts, and a dog on my lap. That's way past now. I'm ready for sun, warmth and green grass. Oh for the smell of freshly mowed grass...

I do find it interesting that our moods and outlooks are deeply tied in with the weather and what is happening outside our windows. It seems that when it's sunny, we are too; we feel more motivated to be outside, enjoying various activities, in lieu of staying in and keeping warm and dry.

No doubt staying inside is right where I need to be for the present. I have outside activities every night this week, which means that I need to maximize my indoor day time. I haven't posted for awhile but I will get back into the swing of it! Thanks to all of you who inquired about my absence (I actually didn't know I had so many readers! Ya'all know how to make me smile!

As always I have a ton of posts saved up in my head. The trick of late is finding the time to get them outta there. I read in a book that writers call this collecting. It's fair to say that I am in the "collection phase" right now. I'm gathering piles of information, data, observation and abundant recognition. What I recognize today is that white is one of my least favorite colors, especially when it is on the ground.

I'm thinking it's time to get our "spring" on. What say you?!

Life's Just a Little Busy Right Now!

2011-03-28T09:06:00.001-07:00

Sorry for the delay in blog posts. I have a different phone and blogger isn't uploading my pictures. In addition time is a precious commodity. We were gone last week and I have an activity every night this week. Uggg. I love being busy, I love my life and I enjoy doing what I do every day but wow.....I'm in serious need of some down time!

I loved this picture and wanted to share it with you, my wonderful blog readers. It reminds me of summer and all the joys that come along with sunshine and warm weather. I also love the grass! This abundance of winter, cold and snow is fostering a deep appreciation for all things green.

When we were in San Diego last week both boys noticed green grass as we were walking along. We toured Petco Park and salivated over the gorgeous green covering. We were all in agreement.....we want some too!

Happy Spring

2011-03-18T18:19:00.001-07:00

I awoke to a delicious, gentle rain. Nothing says spring time like rain. I'm ready for some rejuvination, it's been a long and productive week. I feel like my life is in fast forward mode and the stop switch has somehow been disabled! Maybe it's just on a timer......c'mon May!

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I'm Imagining Green

2011-03-15T14:32:00.001-07:00

Today is the kind of day I dream of: soft breeze, warm sunshine on my face and the assurance that consistently better days are on the way. Ahhhh I am breathing in the sunshine and relishing the warm rays. Feels like a little taste of heaven on my tongue. Exhale.

Ive been tending to some tasks but I'm just about to hit that little piece if dirt near my house for some communion with nature. I believe that a quiet walk in the sunshine has the ability to "cure what ails us."

Happy Trails

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My Kid

2011-03-14T11:26:00.001-07:00

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Most kids I know play with toys, real toys. For some reason my daughter is not like other kids; her current favorite toys are the lures in an old tackle box.

She started asking pestering her dad about digging the old, seldom used tackle box out of the tack room. As usual BS was relentless. Her efforts paid off and after a day of picking up corn from the field, Chad caved and got the dirty old thing out for her.

What a thrill, what treasures! She's in love with the yellow (sticky,smelly) worms and is at the height of her joy at finding several different frogs and small fish. She's removed the nasty hooks so she can play with all her friends. They've each been given lovely names, like "Fishy" and "Wormy" and "Froggy".

I'm not complaining, it's keeping her busy while I tend to some long overdue computer tasks. I just find it incredibly humorous that her most favorite play things aren't really considered "toys".

I can't imagine where she gets her quirky cre8tivity from. I should record the conversation, it's quite enlightening to say the least!

The Skinny On a Pellet Stove

2011-03-14T11:11:00.001-07:00

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I’m happy to report that my spring cleaning efforts were wrapped up yesterday afternoon. It’s a good feeling to look around my home and see that order has been somewhat restored. Given that five people and a dog occupy the space poses no simple feat for keeping the floors clean and debris free. The cupboards, drawers and fridge have been organized and amazingly….we can find things MUCH easier. The challenge is always to keep it up! My weekend was spent with a paint brush, transforming the master bath. I choose a charcoal grey color and am really amazed with the results. Can a bathroom look professional? I think mine does now. Not that I’ll be holding any important meetings in there but the color is certainly more sophisticated and delightful. I got a compliment from the man I share the space with so I think that’s a good sign.

I’m far behind in my postings but I wanted to share a bit more information about the wood stove. In today’s energy conscious society with the prices of heating homes on the rise, we were happily surprised when we did the “books” for our home operation costs. So far it’s cost about $350 from October to present to heat our entire basement. This includes our family room, craft room, bathroom and boys’ bedrooms. This is the only source of heat we have in the basement.

It’s heated the upper half as well so we’ve run our furnace a fraction of what we did prior to putting the stove. Our cost for propane this winter has been about $200.

The pellet stove we have burns both corn and wood. We experimented with corn first. It burns hot and isn’t clean at all. About every couple of days we had to clean out the stove. We found that wood pellets were slightly higher in cost but make up for it in efficiency and labor. There is hardly any ash with wood pellets so clean up is minimal.

In addition to cost savings, we’ve moved away from petroleum based to a renewable heat source. And unlike turning on a furnace and keeping it on, this stove regulates itself. A remote sensor will turn it off when it reaches the desired heat and start it up when it’s too cold. As a result, most of us prefer being downstairs. It’s definitely the warmest place for my usually chilly body and one of the coolest on a sweltering day.

If you are thinking about changing your heat source or looking for ways to save on heating costs, I encourage you to look into one of these stoves. If we could drive wood burning cars rights now, we’d be set.

Those of you interested in the type and cost of stove can message me. Chad has the dealer’s number and possibly a website for further information. I’m hoping our days of needing heat are going to be fewer and fewer. I think we all agree, tt’s time for spring, isn’t it?!

So Not In the Mood.....

2011-03-13T16:33:00.001-07:00

All signs of spring exist only in our hearts and visions. The weather is quite dismal. I'm relieved though, the spring cleaning is complete and our house is better shape. I need it to be; I think more clearly and I have me some thinkin' to do!

If the weather stays crappy, Im sure to get some desk work done at least!

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Here Birdie, Birdie

2011-03-10T08:30:00.001-08:00

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I am “into” birds right now ---big time! It started with finding an old bird cage on a treasure hunt in January. I put it in the master bathroom. I am currently searching for old bird watching books to use for a wall paper design. When I spied this adorable bird print last weekend the light bulb went off! The whisper of blue and bright orange border stuck with me and I brought this home yesterday. (It was more than I wanted to pay but I am a bargain hunter and anything over $10 is usually too much!)

It’s no secret that I love old things. And as many collectors know, it is easy to bring in a lot of old things, sometimes too easy! I am very careful in what I purchase. I have limited wall space so I tend to avoid any more prints or pictures unless I am willing to part with an existing one. I tend to contemplate, visualize and then purchase. I didn’t buy this print the day I saw it. I waited for four days. This is a gamble, I know, because many times I’ve lost out when I’ve waited and kicked myself later. I avoid impulse buying this way but sometimes it comes with regrets. It kept “calling” to me though and after much contemplation, I decided I’d part with my dollars and bring home the birds!

I will be repainting and redecorating the bathroom in Amhearst Gray. I thought this print would really look amazing on the charcoal wall but I’m undecided right now because the orange border looks outstanding in the Frank Blue guest bathroom! The birds and soft colors are the perfect “pick me up” and reminder that spring is on her way. We’ll approach 50 degrees today; we’re ready for it too.

The name of the print is The Bird Perch by H. Giacomelli. There is a tag on the back, lovingly, neatly taped that says French Illustrator—Color Plate and it is signed in the bottom left corner by the artist. I’ll have to do a little Google searching one of these days to find out more. I love that someone took the time to add that information to the back. I especially LOVE that it was typed, the old fashioned way, pre-computer keyboard. The print has been well taken care of, so perhaps it was worth the price?! I don’t know much about French painters but I do know that I LOVE these little birdies decorating my house!

What’s your favorite old time piece? What décor scheme is catching your eye this spring?

*and yes.....I did change the blog template to....you guessed it....a BIRD design! I may have found my mojo again!

That's more like it!

2011-03-08T06:45:00.001-08:00

Here the physical evidence of yesterday's excavation efforts. I found some pretty interesting items, including one brother's missing mp3 player, needle nose pliers, and four oreos minus the cream filling!

It took most of the day, but the closet and drawers now contain only clothes that fit and items she'll wear. It's useless to battle with her over tops that I think are cute and ones she can't stand. At this point she's a t-shirt and jeans kind of girl and I accept that.

School was called off today so my cleaning and clearing plan may move to the basement since the boys are home. We have two bedrooms to tidy up and one clutter gone wild toy closet, the craft room needs attention as does the bathroom and floors. I'm tossed though, I had planned on diving into our bedrooms and bathroom. It's time to downsize shoes and winter clothes. I'm also thinking about repainting my bathroom so I may take everything out today and see if my idea will work. I won't have a chance to paint for awhile but the momentum is gathering. This space is the last frontier in my three year DIY home reno; I want to be done!

It is time to get moving. As I've shared with my students, this is my seasonal routine (even if it still looks and feels like winter). I've spent three years doing deep detox. Those efforts are paying off. I can cover a lot of ground with less effort because clutter is not as monumental as it once was. I keep only what I love and only what I have room for. I go through the rooms often and pair down gradually and continually. I always feel better after this ritual. I'll be ready for spring, whenever she chooses to arrive!

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View from the dresser

2011-03-07T08:39:00.001-08:00

I'm not kidding here! Did you see the dog bowl with stuffed birds? And the three straws? Yeah....that'smy girl!

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See what I'm up against?

2011-03-07T08:36:00.001-08:00

Not only do I teach classes on the art of creating a beautiful home, I also share ideas and tips on how to effectively clear clutter.

Clearly my daughter is here to help me put these ideas into practice. I joke that she's going to have her own episode on hoarders but from the look of what's under her bed, it may be more than a good laugh.

She loves everything, including the potential worm farm that she keeps sneaking in and trying to grow. Try ad I may to enlighten her that a coffee can of dirt and water will NOT produce worms, no matter what the season! She's persistent, I'll give her that. I'm thinking thusvis a sad way to be spending spring break.....but then again....it's snowing so what the heck, right?!

I'm starting with the toughest room first, just as Ive instructed my students to do. This pit will make my kitchen spice cupboard seem easy.
Rolling up my sleeves now. Po' Girl is blasting on the iPod, chair tea is on the dresser and I'm about to dive intobthe abyss known as my kid's room. One little girl....one giant mess. Nothing that a couple of hours and a garbage bag can't fix!

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It's what?

2011-03-07T07:03:00.001-08:00

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Good news: I'm finally able to get into blogger on my computer. It was a little glitch that stumped me, but was a "cake walk" for my computer guy, Jeff!

Bad news: We are once again in the midst of a snowfall. I wouldn't call this a storm but the snow is piling up on the deck and the ground is getting harder to see. I'm so not in the mood for snow. I am ready for sunshine, clear skies and WARMTH! It is high time to be about the business of reclaiming my home, clearing and cleaning drawers and cupboards, opening windows and welcoming spring. Where the bleep is it?!?!?!? Not in Nebraska, that I can say.

I've got several topics I'll be sharing about; a cool photo gift, vintage honey dispensers and purses and a songwriting project. I know, I know, pretty riveting in the wake of rising gas and food prices. If nothing else perhaps the CC blog can be a welcome, joyful distraction. I'll be sharing more frequently so check back often.

It's nice to have a full keyboard and a head full of ideas. Now, to find the time to do all that I want to do!

Wishing you warm thoughts~

Spring Approaches

2011-03-03T06:21:00.001-08:00

Sunrises are coming sooner and days are lasting longer. This is when I begin to feel more alive, more awake and more vibrant. Warm weather does that to me.

My days have been a slurry of activity so my posts have been fewer. Life does that to me. I'm keenly aware of the necessity if positive being; it takes just as much effort to look at the upside as the downside, but for some reason, I seem to be trained in the later. I know how to retrain. The very demanding schedule I've created for myself is offering me great opportunities for practice. I don't remember ever having so much to do!

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So much for quiet time....

2011-02-27T14:38:00.001-08:00

I'm hiding out in my new space. We found a fantastic camper in Kearney and it is now parked in front of the house.

Since quiet and solace are rare commodities 'round these parts, I decided I'd sneak out here to study and type.

I got about an hour in before the kids found me!

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Wabi Sabi

2011-02-22T11:30:00.001-08:00

I watch themes roll in and out of my life. Since the beginning of February I've had an incedible urge to release, shed, unload, sell and give away many of my possessions.

Im not going anywhere that I know of, I just have a strong urge to clear out the clutter in my life. Simplify is my motto. It always had been but living within a nine fire kind enwrgy station for the majority of 2010 wasn't necessarily conducive to such aspirations!

It made complete sense then that the words waving sabi have been cropping up in my awareness. It directed me to the public library to investigate.This philosophy relates to honoring imperfections, balance through natural objects, finding joy in the mundane and ordinary and highlighting transient beauty in one's life and home. I so get this!!! And now I know the reason for why I pick up broken, muddy turkey eggs and pheasant feathers! Somewhere within my soul knew this ancient truth. My surface mind is now remembering. What divine timing too; my first class Clear Our Clutter is next Monday! I love how synchronicity works!

From the looks of this place, we've got a long way to go to get toto Zen. I trust that this will be an enlightening journey!

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Play like a team!

2011-02-19T15:32:00.001-08:00

The hours of practice and dedication are paying off; our 6th grade boys played fabulously in the Brady tournament today, taking second place! They get the concept of TEAM and winning or loosing aside, this is what rocks my heart!

We need each other. In life, love, work, play, in every situation we need people we can trust and depend on. Knowing that someone "has our back" allows us to do what we came to do. We become greater as we support those around us. We start with our family, our peer group, coworkers, community, state, nation and world. Monumental shits are happening right now. What we never thought would happen does, what we never dared to dream becomes reality. If there was ever a time to stand up, step out and believe the (seemingly) impossible.....NOW is a great time!

I've had one heck of a week. I'm no longer focused on the what ifs. I only have space and time for "focused vision". My eye is on the goal. I learned that from these 6th grade boys. Teachers are arriving in ALL forms these days!

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Road Trip

2011-02-18T11:01:00.001-08:00

For reasons beyond my control/knowledge I can't sign into blogger on my computer. The keyboard on my phone are challenging so this won't be a long post.

It's been an elightening week to say the least. I've experienced incredible depths and highs. Things may be balancing out but its pretty early to tell for sure!

What I know is this : I am blessed with an amazing array of friends. Hands down I am connected to great peeps! Perfectionists tendencies strike when I least expect then to. Passing a class is passing, sometimes an A or B is irrelevant when it comes to just getting something handed in the best you can. Be willing to see another's viewpoint. It's not going to be the same as yours but it can do a lot to bridge gaps, holes and tears in your heart! Finally stop trying to figure it all out. That part is totally pointless. I recommend taking a road trip, being out on nature and away from anything that hurts, bugs, annoys, scares and or challenges you.....at least for a few hours!

Breathe in. Breathe out!

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Poundin the Pavement

2011-02-12T07:30:00.001-08:00

It is Saturday morning and we are once again headed to a basketball tournament. Our team has continued to improve so we want to get them in as many tournaments as we can. The lessons they learn now are important, win or loose.

It's been a fast paced week, fun and productive. I'm feeling a deep urge to go through my house and spring clean. I've accumulated a good deal of items and I've enjoyed them but I am feeling its time to lighten the load and adopt a more minimalist stance. In reality I know I have way too much stuff to pull that off; I can feel a shift happening though. Quality items versus quantity is what I'm going for. I'm leaning towards a more mobile lifestyle in the coming years....I just haven't tamed those gypsy genes and I can feel their pull enticing me down the road.

Our kids are getting older and able to hike longer distances, a milestone I've been waiting for for the past 12 years! The baby is tough and she can hold her own on most trails. Moab here we come! We have at least three summer trips in mind (is it May yet?!)

I've done a fairly good job of keeping myself grounded. I've certainly enjoyed the past several years of less travel and home vibrations. I can hear the wind calling my name though and I know it will soon be time to explore. Its easy to be dormant and domestic in winter. As soon as it warms it'll be nearly impossible for me to resist packing a bag and heading into an outdoor adventure. I've dreamed of camping since the last fall....it's only getting stronger with me.

For the time being, we've got a few more weekends of basketball, working cattle, and various home/ranch responsibilities to tend to. I am blessed with fantastic clients to share with, fun classes to teach, great kids to work with, awesome friends to connect with and an amazingly comfortable, cozy bed to flop into at the end of the day. I can't remember what down time feels like but that's perfectly okay with me, I'm good with a rockin' fast pace for now. I'll find a quiet river to lay beside this summer. Time to keep pounding the pavement!

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Super Organized

2011-02-07T09:41:00.001-08:00

This is me, taking steps to amend my New Year's Resolutions for the past 15 plus years....and counting. I'll be the first to admit that tracking purchases and balancing my checkbook is about as exciting as watching a roof leak. It brings up pretty much the same emotions, frustration, fear/dread and rebellion.

I consider myself to be a cre8tive, free flowing being. Like my Ki energy, one water/three tree, I'm attracted to colorful adventure, schedule free days and love of the unique. That said, I'm coming around, growing wiser or just generally in a real funky location as I am (taking a deep breath) getting the left-brained, linear, sequential aspects of me, in-line.

Perhaps it was sitting through many evenings of "receipt punishment" explaining to my accountant (aka Chad) what I spent, why, where and how much. I have an excellent memory and yet, sadly, some expenses did escape my realm of consciousness.

It was enough of a "wake up" call that I have been working for days to come up with a more suitable plan for tracking expenditures and receipts. I had made it easier on myself, in the present moment by piling everything neatly by the stereo as I emptied my purse/bag. I then neatly carried the pile downstairs and plopped it near Chad's computer. And the stack neatly grew and grew, and grew. When it came time to input the information, Chad's was all neatly added, filed and stored. Mine..........looked like a paper blizzard. I'm ashamed to admit that for someone who considers herself to be fairily organized, this was an epic fail.

I vowed that I would come up with a better system, one that would actually make it easier for me and for my accountant. I purchased a small coupon holder and divided it into various categories; food, clothes, gas, kids, dining, etc. These receipts will then be filed in a monthly pocket folder with a copy of all expenditures. Chad can then grab the file notebook at the end of the month and head downstairs where he'll input and file them. I had found a cool "mom file" at Target for $17 bucks, which gave me the initial idea. I opted to use a similar style of folder at home, buy a pack of 8 pocket holders for $8.00, and punch some holes in 12 old copies of expense pages. At the end of the month I empty the blue coupon file, clip the receipts together in order of use and pop them in the pocket for Chad to take to his office downstairs for input. Perhaps this will mean a more "friendly atmosphere" in the craft room of Casa Johnston next January?!

In the short time I've been searching for a system, I've discovered the key to uber organiation is to clean out recepits first thing Monday morning and/or as soon as I return home at the end of the day. Like house cleaning, a continual effort creates efficiency and goodness knows I need to be an excellent time manager these days. My days are packed to the gills. In fact I would go so far to say that because of my intensely busy daily schedule, that I have HAD to become more aware of time management, prioritizing, task identification and completion. I guess I had it in me all along but it did take a change in my environment (inside and out) to really activate these organization skills.

Am I super organized? Oh heck no! I'm not even close. I am taking conscious steps to help me bring additonal order and balance to my mental, physical, emotional and spiritual levels. These organizational skills have lain dormant for many years as I may or may not have housed the belief that "organized is boring". Since I've been writing about change I can say that my new belief is "organization is essential if we are going to be successful and productive". To do what we want to do means that we will need to slow down long enough to complete what we feel we have to do. Do I like having to keep track of how much money I spend, on what items and when.........the answer, quite honestly is NO! That said, it does help me to recognize trends and tendencies and become more aware how much is going out.........(note to self: need to change that real soon!)

Are you super organized? And if so, what excellent strategies do you employ that help you make the most of your time and talents. Feel free to post in the comment section below.

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card number 4

2011-02-05T13:49:00.001-08:00

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card number 3

2011-02-05T13:48:00.001-08:00

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card number 2

2011-02-05T13:47:00.001-08:00

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Newest Card Creation

2011-02-05T13:46:00.001-08:00

Valentine's day is one of my favorite occasions for card crafting. This year Im incorporating black and white with either red or pink.....I'm loving it!

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Therapy!

2011-02-04T13:51:00.001-08:00

And not the retail kind either! This may appear to be a random post, but stay with the words and you'll see how this post matches the theme of change!

I haven't worn heels since a Dixie Chicks concert in 2002. It was around this time that I recognized I had something wrong with my left toe, I could barely bend it back into place. It wasn't until last summer that I decided I needed to do something about it! In November I had a bone spur removed. It was painful to say the least. I've stretched it daily and it is doing better but I'll be the first to admit that I am not naturally inclined to inflict pain on myself on a regular basis!

What I noticed was that stretching and bending REALLY HURT at the time but after a couple of hours or so, the constriction eased and I went longer without noticing pain. I made it a point to stretch my toe when I was typing, reading, brushing my teeth, and even eating! I worked it good but it still wasn't enough. What I needed was to have a "mold" that would hold my toe in an uncomfortable position for longer periods. What to do? What to do...........the answer: ORDER HEELS!

I found these cute "retro/vintage" looking ones and straped them on. The right foot feels....perfect. The left....OUCH. I found that I could only wear them for short periods of time at first. I've increased the time daily and today.......I've worn them since 8 am.

How does this support embracing change? What is your life feels painful and constricting? What might you be avoiding? When we sense pain, we tend to go in the opposite direction. Yet, sometimes, simply stoping and being willing to feel a bit of discomfort can actually reshape our thoughts and attitudes.

It is when we stretch, moving past our comfortable boundaries that we begin to grow. This growth need not happen all at once, it's more important that is happens continually. It's easy to become complacent and accepting of ourselves, the routines and relationships that we've created. None of us wish for discomfort and pain, yet in some ways, those less than supportive emotions and situations can open us to greater posibilites and postive changes. Just because something feels painful now doesn't mean it ALWAYS will. Sometimes we have to take small, calcuated steps toward a goal and intention. Great risk often implies amazing results. And if the results are not what you anticipated, rest assured, there will be a valuable lesson, either way.

One of the techniques I've learned is rather than avoiding and running from fear, we can stop and face it, head on. There's nothing more empowering to admit that something scares us or that we really hurt. Admitting how we feel, in any situation is vital for clarity. When we recognize the value of our thoughts, feelings and emotions, even if no one else feels this way or can understand our viewpoint, we can connect the dots and see what we have to work through. This is not an obstacle, this is a stepping stone! And rather than feel guilty, we can celebrate the fact that we have the ability to feel pain, as well as joy. We can't clear out old patterns, habits and beliefs if we don't know where they are showing up and holding us back in our daily lives!

Step intot that which hurts, physically/mentally/emotionally. It may feel like a large wall, but there's no reason that it can't be dismantled brick by brick. Become the architect of your life. Create new foundations. If there is pain, welcome it. Focus intently on where it is showing up. Breathe and relax into it.........in small doses of coarse. Listen to the body, it will tell us when we've had enough for the day. Honor your efforts, even the smallest ones. And if it makes you feel better, buy yourself a new pair of heels (or whatever footwear suits you best). There's no reason why you can't look great paving your own path. I doubt I will wear these out to the chicken coop/goat pen, but when I take them off and slide into the good ol Muck boots, I notice that the pain is significantly less than the time before and the time before that.

Where is pain showing up for you right now? What can be done to make it your ally? Drop any resistance. Open up, breathe and if the mood strikes, go ahead and KICK UP THOSE HEELS!

Embracing Change

2011-02-01T13:30:00.000-08:00

February is here and this marks the official shift of a brand new ki energy coming our way. Ki energies are those invisible life forces and "themes" that we work with each day, each month and each year. We are influenced by these natural energies; through careful observation and study we can recognize patterns around us, inviting us to acknowledge various lessons and opportunites to deepen learning of ourselves, others and the world around us.

Much is going on in our world right now. Change is here. Change has always been here and always will be. It just seems that the rate of change is something to take note of; we changing in accelerated ways. Technology and information exchanges happen in the blink of an eye and the click of a button. Phew! It can certainly be exhasting and can tax us on all levels.

I've sat with all the wonderful requests about suggestions for blog posting and I'll be sharing insight on embracing change, working with challenging situations and finding balance in daily life! Thank you for all the WONDERFUL suggestions. I've got ideas rolling now so stay tuned and you may just see your suggesting manifesting into a blog post! I appreciate the feedback and loved pouring through the emails. What fun.

Today, I'm reflecting on change. How we can change, shift and stay in the flow of our life. It seems that when we put our feet firmly down, resist and try to avoid change, that is when it knocks us off balance. Boulders in a river have the ability to divert the flow of energies around them. They stand their ground, unmoving and seemingly unchanged. However, they never see new view points, they don't have the gift of experincing new scenery or different people. They stay in the same place, day after day, year after year. The river stream can't force the rock to move but over time, it can wear it away. It can also create new channels around the boulder.. In life, we may want to be more like the river; flowing, adjusting, opening and allowing feedom between us and the boulders we meet along the way. Financial challenges, relationships, health problems, career shifts can all represent rocks in our stream, but they don't have to stop us. They may divert our attention for a bit, but it is us who determines the choice of going with the flow or resisting.

I encourage you to keep moving along. You don't have to go fast. You can stop and rest if you want or need to. By all means listen to your body and your heart. Take care of YOU. When the time comes to make a choice, we can use the best of the resources we have at hand. It's when we stop, when we resist and fight against those impossible boulders that we loose focus of the river and it's beauty. This boulder is probably not where we want to live. Let's move on then! Change is not comfortable. It can be scarry as hell. It can also be exhilerating, it just depends on how we look at it. This river we call life, will take us places we didn't know we wanted to be and once we're there, we may decide we never want to visit again! Just keep moving; often something better does arrive, especially if we Do know what we want MORE of!

Being open and allowing abundant blessing to flow into our lives is no match for any boulder that we encouter.

Peace on your journey!

Breathing In Kindness

2011-01-31T11:47:00.000-08:00

One kind word can warm three winter months~Japanese proverb

I took this picture at sunrise on the day of my birth in 2008. I reflect on the power of the sun's ability to shine even through the darkets of clouds. The heart is our "inner sun". It has the ability to open and allow us to feel love, even when the minds tells us to "close it down" and keep ourselves safe. But what do we miss if we play it safe? What experines pass us by if we are not willing to take chances? If we cling to what we know because we fear rejection, what amazing experiences are being pushed away?

I can't see the road ahead, I can only work with what is in front of me right now. I think one of the most important aspects of happiness is being willing to look at and work through some of the inner most fears we carry. Being afraid to get hurt often leads us to hurting more deeply than we need to. With enough worry, fear and uncertainty floating around our personal worlds as well as the globe, I hope we all remember to share at least few sincere and kinds words, with ourselves and one another.

Letting our light shine isn't always easy. Picking ourselves up after a fall requires great strength. Having our hearts broken indicates we have loved deeply. That is something to celebrate.....after the pain lessens. The greater the risk, the harder the fall.........or the higher the rise.....depending on how we choose to see it. And maybe, just maybe a more expansive viewpoint is what we are rewarded with when the dust clears? It doesn't have to scar us, but it can help shape our choices in the next moment and the moment after than and the moment after that...........

For all of you that read this, for all of you who are dealing with uncertainty, sadness, pain and fear, both known and unknown, keep that flame in your heart burning. It will serve you well. It may not make sense right now, but happiness is waiting for you, just under those clouds of doubt. Hold on to hope. Cling to possibility. Even if you can't see it yet, the light will find you.

What kind word do you most need today? What kind word can you give away?

~A special thank you to my cowboy buddy, Ross, for today's inspirational quote~

Progress!

2011-01-27T18:10:00.001-08:00

I haven't had a lot of time to knit, it will be a wonder if I ever learn to purl or add any other touches. Just the same, I adore the cre8tion of a simple scarf. I am absolutely LOVING this color!

It's been a busy week, more so than expected. I have many ideas to write about; thank you for all the WONDERFUL comments!

I will catch up soon, God-willing, right after...ummmm.....2026!

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Puddles of Mud

2011-01-25T18:01:00.001-08:00

What do you when life hands you
mud? You can splash in it, play with your child (or inner child) and forget about the world for a bit.

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So......what would you like to read about?

2011-01-24T09:05:00.000-08:00

I had a curious thought pop into my head........and since I'm feeling adventerous I'd like to open this post up to you, my very dear blog readers. I've written about my farm ventures, what I enjoy doing, the antics of my family and even a bit about my career and what I do here in this big 'ol world. I offer classes, both group and private, on a variety of subjects. I'd like to know if there is anything in particular that you, my readers, would like to read about?!?! Any topics that catch your eye, any themes that you'd like me to share my experience about?

What would you like to hear from me? Or are you good with my randomness? I kind of shutter here, it's sort of like I am back in high school waiting to draw the extemporaneous speaking topic! So let me hear you, either in the comment section, FB notes or good old email, if there is something that you'd like to hear more about. I'm always surprised to discover that a theme I may be working with is similar to one that others area dealing with. It confirms that we are all in this together. I don't claim to be an expert on anything; my intention is to inspire, delight and motivate others. I'd love to hear any suggestions you may have.

My inbox is waiting..............

Going To My Happy Place

2011-01-22T14:06:00.000-08:00

I am typing at the kitchen table and the wind is howling outside. I’ve been working on ki readings and enjoying this Saturday at home. The cold, damp, blustery day makes me want to go to my happy place.

This is a location I am extremely fond of. I rarely, if ever, visit it in the winter time. I’m sure it still beautiful qualities though I don’t venture too far off the beaten path, save for fetching groceries or going to basketball games. In the summer time, this scenario changes drastically. When the weather warms, I start preparing for camping season. I think it’s in my blood. My mom has pictures of me as a wee little tike in the back of the pickup topper that we used to take to Merritt Damn. My brother and I learned to water ski before we could drive. Any spare day we had, we begged to go to the river or to the lake.

Of all the places in the world, one of my favorites is the Niobrara River. It's a place I return to as often as I can. I LIVE for camping. There’s just nothing I like better than to sit by the water, watch the clouds roll in and out, listen to the lapping waves and just BE. I sometimes take a book and music, but mostly I just sit. This is what I dream about all year; when the deck is covered with snow, when my hands are freezing from milking the goat, when I curse the wind for nearly killing my back door (it is REALLY on it’s last breath here), when I slip and slide and nearly fall on my can, I stop, take a deep breath and……………go to my happy place!

Maybe camping appeals to me more because it is not something I can do all year round. It is a limited season, which is why I don’t feel bad when I hit the road for the weekend and go hang out somewhere near water and do nothing. I could very well be at home doing something productive, but why? Why would I want to miss an opportunity that is not as easy to access in the dead of winter? I dreaming of going camping all year long and when those invitations arise, I take them, guilt free, no matter how much I think I need to get done at the 'ol homestead. We hook up "Let'er Buck" and point her north to the Niobrara. Life is GREAT.

So, let the wind blow, let the ice, snow and sleet have their way for now. I know it can’t hold up against the warmth of summer, fireflies and full moons that are alive and well in my heart. I’m dreaming of a cozy camper with a fire ring blazing nearby, a trio of guitars strumming along, good food, great friends, stories, laughter, flip flops, shorts and tank tops. C’mon Summer……..I know you’re out there. I love you. I miss you and I am ready for you to steal me away from Old Man Winter!

lemongrass

2011-01-22T13:09:00.001-08:00

Apparently I didn't load the picture...so here it is

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My Fav Color

2011-01-21T13:36:00.001-08:00

I've posted often about my love of knitting. It keeps me grounded and focused. I'm more aware of colors and textures since I've started working with yarn. My new favorite color is lemongrass......I can almost smell it. I can't wait to wear it around my neck!

Maybe, just maybe I will finish it this weekend. I'm hoping for a little downtime.

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Worth Getting Out of Bed For!

2011-01-20T11:30:00.001-08:00

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How To Beat The Winter Blahs Part III

2011-01-19T11:42:00.001-08:00

Today’s installment of How To Beat The Winter Blahs arises from something I’ve been doing consistently since fall. It’s likely not something that would feel like resemble “a big deal”, yet it has made an impact on my outlook and perceptions, especially in the heart of a very cold, snowy winter season.

I’m talking about the blessing of chores and animals that rely on our care. Many of the people that read my blog are persons who take care of others, both in human and animal form. Service to others is actually vital to our well being! Taking care of others, be it feeding hungry animals, scooping the walk of an appreciative neighbor, giving a friend a ride to work, or making a home-cooked meal are all ways that we can connect more deeply to those around us.

It is easy, at least for me, to become closed in and constricted. I don’t like to go out and I hate being cold. So what is the one thing I have to do EVERY DAY? Feed animals. It doesn’t matter if it is 100 or 10 degrees. They rely on my for breakfast and supper. I find that when I make the effort to go out of my “comfort zone” (not without my smartwool socks and beanie) I open into a more expansive point of view. I notice the unique snow formations around the tomato tank. I appreciate the warmth of the coop and praise God for the invention of heated bowls! I notice and appreciate far more than I would if I was in the house and didn’t have such tasks to tend to.

I think it is easy in our fast-paced society to forget about the importance of service to others. Looking directly into someone’s eyes, expressing a sincere thank you, letting other people know they genuinely matter, even if the weather sucks, can and does lift the spirit. I believe this and I practice it daily.

It may seem hard to believe, but I have an intense hermit streak that I occasionally have to give in to. I could easily stay right here at home, not leaving for a month to connect with the outside world. I’m at home BEING ME! While that is great and good, it can close me off to others and the outside world. I forget that my problems and challenges are the same as those shared by others. I forget that “I’m not the only one that has ever felt this way.” Connecting to others and being in service IS important. Winter does make it challenging to get out and stay connected and yet, making that effort to get out is what can also free us from those blah, yucky feelings. I’ve found it’s usually not what we want to do, it’s what we know we need to, do that can get us unstuck!

I hope I don’t sound like I’m preaching to anyone! Several friends and even clients have asked what I do to remain “bubbly and sunny”, (me bubbly?!?!) and these are my recommendations:

1.) Surround yourself with LIFE, green, living growing things and especially vibrant colors. When it’s cold and dull outside, it is important to refresh and enhance our inner environments. Consider changing your pictures and art to brighter shades and tones. Just because it’s crappy outside doesn’t mean it can be colorful and refreshing inside!

2.) Get out and move. Move your physical body as much as you move your mental body. If you are in an office, it is VITAL that you get some time outside, breathe in fresh air and take the opportunity to be in nature. Winter tends to slow things down, moving helps counterbalance stagnation.

3) Be in Service To Others: No matter what flock you are tending, do it with full out JOY. Taking care of others can help us appreciate our gifts, traits and talents. It can also broaden our perspective as well as boost our own and others’ moral. The challenges that we deal with are likely the same as what others are dealing with too. Isolation and depression can be lifted when we share directly with others, especially when we can help them in a meaningful way.

Of coarse there are MORE ideas (always are!) so please share your favorites in the comment section below!

Happy sledding, or skiing or sliding or snowball fighting!

How To Beat The Winter Blahs Part II

2011-01-18T11:56:00.000-08:00

Weather wise today has been really blah. It was, and still is, cold and crisp. That break in the weather yesterday was a rare treat. We all knew it too. Whispy white flakes of snow layered the grown as I looked out the north window, though it didn't amount to much. It was just a reminder that winter is still very much present.....and it's not going to go away for awhile.

To counterbalance the effects of this season, I'm making at effort, sometimes a HUGE one, to get out and walk. While I'd love to walk at the same time every day, this doesn't always happen. Every day is different from the next and following a schedule has never been a forte of mine. I do set the intention to get out in nature and go for a walk daily, whenever the opportunity arises. This morning I rushed inside to get to the many things on my list. As I knocked them off, one by one, I contemplated skipping my walk: it was cold, blustery and well.......COLD. I dislike freezing and sweating so I tend to not enjoy my winter walks as much as those in other seasons. I mean really, if you have to wear a coat to work out, what's the point?!?!

My point is this......get moving! Even if you are not trying to firm up, shed pounds or get in shape, taking a walk does refresh your entire system and shifts your focus. I'm the first to profess that I am not a fan of winter and cold and yet sometimes, it is the perfect antidote to flaring tempers, poopy attitudes and the feeling of constriction that comes from being inside. Cabin Fever, SAAD and other forms of lower energies is probably a direct correlation of being stuffed inside for several months.

Of coarse we know this is true, yet, what we know does not always direct our actions. I could tell I needed to do something different when the kids were home and I had a claustrophobic reaction to their fighthing. Mama HAD to get outside! I don't think I've walked that hard and fast for a long time. The good news is, no heads rolled, all bodies remained in tact and I was able to "cool off" significantly (while sweating profusely) before I re-entered my quasi-Utopia! It made such an impact that night that I've been taking a daily, fast walk since. I can't really tell if it is helping my figure, I'm still piling on the layers but I'll make that assessment come Spring.

While walking certainly hasn't erased all my frustrations, it has helped a great deal in giving me time to refocus. I do feel more relaxed, refreshed and rejuvinated. There is still a part of me that would love to spend my day on the couch, wrapped in quilts and covered in great books, I just keep putting her off until next Sunday.

If you haven't hit the road in a whille, I encourage you to do so. It may be just what you need to get the blood pumping, lift your attitude/outlook. Even if you have to wrap up in a few extra layers, there are still many "treats" that Mother Nature has to offer. It's not her fault we have to suffer through this miserable

season!

Please note: The opinions expressed in this blog are solely based on the author's long standing attitude towards the drab, miserable, seemingly never-ending cold weather harbored by Winter. Someday when she has the funds to do so, she will live in a place that has summer year 'round. She will spend most of her day in a hammock, gazing at the ocean and an abundance of living GREEN plants. If you live in an area that is lusciously green and warm this time of year, please send her a picture, she's completely forgotten what is is like to be in such a location!

Seeing Red.....

2011-01-17T12:18:00.001-08:00

A close-up of view of the dashing RED petals!

How To Beat The Winter Blahs.....Part 1

2011-01-17T12:17:00.001-08:00

The difference in yesterday and today is like night and day. Yesterday we woke up to a frosty, foggy day that stayed bone-cold all day. It was pretty to look at but not to be IN. I came in to a hot, home-cooked breakfast and was thankful to see the perky, red blooms of my geraniums. I don't know how I got through previous winters whithout these delightful plants! Nothing denotes the look of home and garden more than geraniums. I love their light scent as much as I love their red petals. This is just the elixer I needed to get through a very blah day.

I purchased six potted plants last spring and two adorable geraniums that went in pots on either side of our entry way. Sadly these, with pretty pink petals, became fodder for the renegade goat (the same goat that ate my tomato plants not once, but three times). Being the frugal person I am, I was not going to let $60 worth of geraniums die with the first frost. No sir! At $10 per plant, I was not going to loose money by forgetting about them in the cold. I brought them in, trimmed them up, added soil to their wind/weather damaged appearance and made a nice home for them on the little red kitchen cart. The cart is the best storage device I have right now. If I put the squash in the pantry, I tend to forget they are there. I don't have a root cellar and our downstairs storage room is already full and a little on the warm side for root vegetables. The cart was an impromptu effort to keep the plants off of the floor. I'd taken two of the plants downstairs but with the wood stove and dry heat they weren't fairing well. Add the fact that they weren't being watered with half-full supper glasses and shrivel starts to happen.

I'd had the idea of hanging them in our south facing window, and again, space is limited so we added hooks to get them off the small cart. That brings the count to three on hooks, two on the cart and one in my bathroom, which also gets fair amount of sun during the day. I took this photo after the "hanging" and it brought a smile to my face. I now have a reminder of the past summer and the one to come; I'll take these back to their spots on the front of the house, garden shed, back door and chicken coop. I also have to say it was quite refeshing to take in the brilliant red petals on a very grey day. It was as if summer was just around the corner. And then......this morning........ an early spring appeared! Now I know that this is just a teaser, but I'm fine to be had in this way. It has been a most, sunny, glorious, WARM day and I've soaked it in. I remember now that I miss the chirp of birds and other sounds of spring time. It's challenging to describe, you just KNOW the energy of spring, that fresh, upward rising energy. Ahhhhhh!

So if you are finding the winter days a bit too harsh, I highly recommend bringing bright, living blooms into your space. We can't make winter go faster but we can find ways to infuse spring/summer within each day.

I Ususally Like Sundays

2011-01-16T16:01:00.001-08:00

Sundays, in my mind are ideal days to lounge around and savor the day. Piles of books to be read, scarved to be knit, dogs to scratch, coffee to drink, dreaming, puttering, relaxing. This is not how Sunday went down in my world today.

Upon our return from Mass, I jaunted outside to take care of a much needed task, cleaning the coop. I do this on a monthly basis, staying on top of the stink, even in deep winter. While I cleaned, Chad cooked up a delicious country breakfast consisting of potatoes, onions and left over sausage. It was delicious.

After that, the day just flew by. We spent quality time together working on Robyn's accounts and receipts. Poor Chad has his work cut out for him! My forte does not lie within such tasks as tax preparation. I know it is necessary and now I know I need a new, more efficient system of organizing what I buy and when. I am a very right-brained girl. It appears that I need to incorporate more left-brained techniques into the rush of my day. I have some ideas in mind to make it easy for Chad at the end of the month. This includes having a bill file near the door and my purse, so that I am not just "chunking" receipts into a basket and lugging them downstairs to be seen at a time fare into the future. I guess I've just discovered my New Year's resolution........again. If I remember right I tried this several years back and was clearly not successful!

So here we are, on Sunday evening. I'm ready for bed and praying that I do not dream of lost transactions and unaccounted for receipts. Though this wasn't my ideal day, I feel fortnuate that I live with a left-brained person who is wiling to put this all into a computer and make it "come out right". He needs to be patted on the back, living with me is not always an easy thing to do, especially when it comes to............tax preparation!

The chore threads

2011-01-14T06:41:00.001-08:00

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Chore Attire

2011-01-14T06:38:00.001-08:00

This is what I wear to work every morning: warm sweatshirt, beanie, smart wool socks, various layers. Smile is optional.....

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Stress Relief

2011-01-14T06:22:00.001-08:00

I design cards when the day' s events become too intense. I play with paper, scissors, glue and markers. There I said it.....Im a scrapbooking and craft addict.

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We Have the Power To.........

2011-01-12T07:05:00.000-08:00

Dear Blog Readers,

I miss you! I haven’t forgotten about you. It seems that this new year has arrived equipped with rocket fuel and I am being projected forward is several exciting and unexpected ways. Don’t worry though, I’m learning (albeit slowly) to balance all these fabulous experiences and you’ll soon see more in-depth and hopefully entertaining posts.

I’ve not been able to “mobile blog” as much because my old phone fizzled out. I replaced it with a different version and while I love the larger screen (MUCH EASIER TO READ) it is not conducive to sending random thoughts on the go. Again, adjustment required (seems to be my personal theme these days!)

So where do you find yourself being whisked away to as our year gets under way? As a Nine Star Ki practitioner (what I do when I’m not doing anything children, animal, home/ranch related) I can look at energetic themes and trends within each year and month. My personal themes indicate deep personal change and transformation which is both exciting and frightening. And the truth is it is all how we look at the situation(s). Do we cling to what we know? Or do we throw our hair back, jump on and ride the wave?

Perception, how we CHOOSE to look at any event or situation is going to be KEY to our happiness in the year to come. I’d like to share a wonderful quote shared via my good 'ol cowboy buddy, Ross, “If you’re not blessed thankful or lucky………change” ~Karma

Yep, that pretty much sums it up. Our happiness, our reality is entirely based on the perception we adopt. We can wake up to a gorgeous, snow crystal world, one that is unique and rare and could never exist in July or we can wake up grumbling and cursing old Man Winter. We can bundle up and build snowmen in a small town in Nebraska or we can ignore the opportunity to make other people laugh, sulking about this and that.

I really don’t know where we’re headed in the coming months but I have a pretty strong idea that how we choose to look at each day and every moment is going to determine our highest levels of success.

Face the sun, open your mind and heart and go forward to infect everyone around you with a positive, loving attitude. Together I DO believe we can all move mountains and……….huge piles of snow!

2011-01-11T12:55:00.001-08:00

I love that some cre8tive person(s) made snowmen on main street in Maywood!

Summer Thoughts.............

2011-01-10T11:24:00.001-08:00

These are just two of my summer icons~pineapple and spinach. Unlikely combinations and ones that probably should not be combined in the same meal but nontheless, they bring a summer sensation to my tastebuds.

I only buy pina when there is a good deal. It's rare that I would be willing to pay over four bucks for one; when they get down to two, I'm in.

Spinach is just a versatile food that I can always find a dish for it to go into. I grew my own for the first time last spring and it was DELICIOUS and easy. Did I mention easy? I actually tossed the tiny seeds into the ground and didn't expect much. It grew as good as most of my weeds, which means it's perfect for my garden.

I was fortunate enough to get several cuttings from it and even sent a few lucky Rafter Lazy H visitors home with a bag or two. Today, I noticed that my pile is nearly gone. BS decided that she adores these leaves as well and that is what she chomped down for lunch (with an ample amount of raspberry vinegarette dressing).

We'll cut the pineapple up for a snack later today. The kitchen has been cleaned, laundry is about to be tackled and then there's a pile of mail and a movie to watch. The kids are home today because of the snow so classes, computer, writing and anything related to high-levelthinking is likely a lost cause~!

I think I must really be missing summer. I've caught myself more than once in a daydream of riding a flashy, red cruiser bike down the street. My hair is blowing in the wind, the sunshine is kissing my face. I have an assorment of veggies and fresh flowers in the basket in front and I am just gliding along on a warm, windless day........in my shorts and tank top........with sunscreen and flip flops......ahhhhhhhhh Don't wake me 'til Spring!