Poetical Curiosity

Creative Flight, Silence, and Helping Out

2008-09-16T14:01:00.000-07:00

* Three planes flying in formation over my town.

* Quiet hours to myself.

* Being the emergency contact for a friend's child and picking him up from school when he was sick and they couldn't reach his mom. It was nice that he knew me well enough that I provided comfort for him when he needed it.

Comfort, Enjoyably Wasting Time, and a Pretty Table

2008-04-02T08:37:00.000-07:00

* Honey ginger lemon tea when the ickies come on strong.

* Finding Lost episodes on the internet.

* Spreading my nice red tablecloth on the table and leaving it there all day.

Nerves, Red, Smiles

2008-04-01T04:47:00.001-07:00

* The butterflies that are fluttering more intensely in my tummy as it nears time for my MRI.

* Buying red towels for my master bath.

* Practicing great big smiles on people in everyday situations.

June, Purity, Similarities

2008-03-31T04:49:00.000-07:00

* Meeting June, with whom I share an almost spiritual sisterhood. I've never experienced a near-instant bond like this before.

* Witnessing all the teens standing before the church, pledging their commitment to living pure lives. They had just completed the True Love Waits Bible study.

* The gal at church who Tim thinks looks just like Jennifer Garner with a bee sting (think Martin Short in Pure Luck).

Found, English, New Funny Phrase

2008-03-29T02:13:00.000-07:00

* Finding my camera battery charger in my bottom drawer, buried under random stuff I rarely use. Oh, yeah! That's where I put it!

* I'd like to study how America's language evolved differently than that of the British. I'm intrigued by the way the British spell words (such as "tyre" and "diarrhoea"). Also interesting is hearing the British radio dj's interviewing American actors and musicians.

DJ: "Have you had an rows among your band mates?"

Dumbfounded band mates: "Row? Huh?"

DJ: "Oh, sorry. Arguments."

* Last Sunday, having lunch with a Scotsman who regularly said, "Oh my giddy aunt!" That phrase is now officially entering my Rotation of Ridiculous Phrases.

Lloyd, Betsy, and Oncoming Traffic

2008-03-28T02:08:00.000-07:00

* The phrase "Lord love a duck" cracks me up, so I've added it to my Rotation of Ridiculous Phrases. Even funnier is my two year-old's version of it: "Lloyd Little Duck"!

*Lord love a duck" is quickly surpassing my number one ridiculous phrase: "Heavens to Betsy."

* There's a road sign between base and where I live that warns "Oncoming traffic in middle of road." Isn't that scary?! I don't know why it's there or what it means. I've never seen the oncoming traffic anywhere but in their own lane. How ominous.

The Early Birds Get The Worms

2008-03-27T03:13:00.000-07:00

* Pulling myself out of bed at 5:30am. I've decided to write for one hour before everyone wakes up in the mornings. I usually plan these things, then deiced I'll implement them at some later day; this time, yesterday, I decided to do it the next morning. By the time I had looked up a few scriptures online, check My eBay (I won!) and organized my Bookmarks, I only had enough time to write 6 lines, all of which were crap. But those are 6 lines of crap closer to a full article.

* The fat pigeons that eat their breakfast in my still unfinished backyard.

* When I told Zach that the pigeons were eating seeds, bugs and worms, he was thoroughly disgusted! I told him that to birds, worms are breakfast sausage. That made things a little better.

Illumination, Mauvelicious, and Thoughtful Gift

2007-11-19T11:14:00.000-08:00

* Driving past houses and offices early in the morning while it's still dark out. When there are lights on in the rooms, you get a glimpse of the lives of the real people that live beyond the cold stone walls. One house has what seems to be a painting studio at the top of the house, another room I saw was the living room of an elderly women who likes art. I saw a balding man in an office painted a hideous orange color.

* Finding a shade of lipstick that perfectly matches my lip color. It's called "Mauvelicious." :)

* A new diary given to me by a friend as thanks for a favor. It's hand beaded, red, and came with a matching pen. When I exclaimed that I loved it, she said, "As soon as I saw it, I knew it was you!" It surprised and blessed me that she knew me well enough to pick something out for me that I would have chosen myself.

In The Clutches Of Fall

2007-11-07T12:10:00.000-08:00

Worldwide Air Waves, Soft Light, and Candor

2007-11-04T14:06:00.000-08:00

* Listening to international radio from the internet via some wireless contraption Tim brought home. I heard two stations from Russia, one from Helsinki, another from Antigua, and several from the US, all on the stereo system in my bedroom in Germany. Ah, modern innovations!

* The beautiful red and black Japanese lantern sitting on my window sill. I've never had the slightest interest in Japanese lanterns till I got this one on a whim. Now I think I'd like a room full of them.

* Surprising an unsuspecting guy with candor. Christians tend to be great at glossing over stuff; it was rather a relief to be frank, but it left poor J fumbling a bit.

Frothy, Harry Never Fails To Soothe, and Singled-Out Sheep

2007-11-02T08:04:00.001-07:00

* After all these years I still don't see the appeal in foam at the top of a drink, specifically coffee. Tim loves it, oohing and ahing over a frothy cup like the coffee somehow tastes better with a layer of bland, annoying milk foam covering it. It's beyond me.

* Walking through the commissary, alone, with my iPod pumping Chanson du Vieux Carre : Connick On Piano, Volume 3 directly into my ears. It was peaceful and a totally opposite experience from frantically working my way through the store with four kids in tow.

* The hundreds of sheep that appeared in several of the fields seemingly overnight. Many of them have ominous red dots on their backs.

Adolescent Infatuation, Veggies, and Pants

2007-11-01T02:53:00.000-07:00

* The good and the bad of middle school love, according to Sean. The good: in class, sitting behind the girl you like. The bad: sitting in front of her.

* The delicious anticipation of roasted vegetables for dinner: gathering the ingredients, setting them on the counter and impatiently waiting for the right time to begin peeling and cutting them.

* Paying to have my pants hemmed, then getting them back only to discover that I've lost enough weight that they no longer fit me. I'm not sure if I should be happy about the loss, or upset that I paid to have them shortened for no reason.

Honesty, Emails From My Brother, and "Growding Up"

2007-10-30T02:43:00.000-07:00

* I opened up to someone about an issue in my life that I am hesitant to talk about and discovered that it is something she struggles with as well. Being transparent with her was painful at first but it became common ground where we could relate and deepen our friendship, as well as giving her encouragement. I went away blessed, not only because she trusted me enough to share her struggles, but also by how God uses his children as his hands and mouth, to offer love and hope.

* Exchanging emails with my little brother. He is smart, articulate and writes meaty emails. He's the only one in my family that I can count on to write regularly and enough to fill my need for significant communication.

* Zach is revealing an extremely competitive side of his nature. He's all about racing everyone these days, in any way he can dream up. He races Ian in getting dressed, me when washing our hands, when walking up stairs, and in eating. Yesterday I was sitting on the floor when he started eyeing the length of my legs in relation to his. He looked at me suspiciously and asked, "Mom, why did you beat me in growding up?"

Necklace, Bakery On Wheels, and Buttons

2007-10-25T12:17:00.000-07:00

* Wearing the necklace Heather gave me a few years ago. I haven't worn jewelry much over the last few years, spending most of the past 5 years either pregnant or with a newborn, but lately I've cracked open the jewelry box. I've rediscovered many forgotten treasures, including the beautiful necklace from Heather. When she sent it to me I loved it instantly and I was blessed not only by the gift, but also that she knew me well enough to choose a perfect gift for me.

* Standing in the entry to the medical clinic today when a German bakery truck pulled into the parking lot, its horn honking persistently. It pulled up right in front of me and the sides opened up almost miraculously revealing rows of pastries. From behind me, a horde of people- military and civilians alike- came pouring out of the building and gathered around the truck.

* When I get a secondhand piece of clothing with buttons, I often consider replacing the buttons. Replacing the buttons makes it my own as well as reduces the chance of someone recognizing my clothes as their castoffs. I recently came into possession of 5 previously owned jackets and I'm trying to decide which, if any, of the lucky jackets get makeovers.

Dental Hygiene, Constructive Reading, and Fire

2007-10-23T02:59:00.001-07:00

* The whole family brushing its teeth extra well because we had appointments to have them cleaned. It would make more sense to skip brushing them a few times and really make the hygienists work for their pay.

* The dental hygienist asking if I ever read Webster's Dictionary. He suggested reading 5 entries a day to broaden my vocabulary and make people think I was really smart. He says he does it all the time.

* It occurred to me last week how nice it must be for smokers to always have a lighter handy. I'm not a smoker, but I think I'd enjoy walking around with capacity for fire in my pocket.

Response, Superheros, and a Splash of Color

2007-10-22T03:13:00.000-07:00

* When I asked the German lady in the Chinese store if she spoke English, she put her forefinger and thumb together and flicked them at me in response. She had a very pleasant expression on her face and she continued to look at me expectantly, so I assumed this wasn't some sort of Chinese insult. It's the first time I've received that response.

* One of Zach's favorite pass times is inventing superheros. He's come up with Doctor Temperature and Fenton The Hero, among others, and the latest is Burping Soda Man. His dearest dream is to grow up and save someone; I think he'll have a very interesting title when that happens.

* I pulled enough boring white Kleenez out of the hotel dispenser and discovered beautiful lavender tissue underneath - an unexpected splash of color in an otherwise unexceptional hotel bathroom.

Today I'm celebrating 100 Poetical Curiosity posts! That's 300 observations of the beautiful, odd, thought-provoking, smile-inducing and subtle happenings around me.

Museum Of Me, Snubbed, and Shining The Sink

2007-10-18T03:10:00.000-07:00

* The kids standing proudly by their "Museum Of Me" projects at Parent's Night. The assignment was to showcase their interests, hobbies, families and aspirations. A great way to help kids to define themselves in their own minds in their late tween/early teen years.

* Being ever-so-slightly snubbed and not knowing why. D was friendly in a professional way as we did business, without a hint of personal recognition despite past friendly dealings on a personal level. Interesting. It didn't help that I couldn't attempt to reach her on a personal level because I couldn't remember her name! Oops. Maybe she thought I was snubbing her.

* Shining the sink. I spent about 20 minutes on it - cleaning, scrubbing, shining, drying -and it's given me 2 hours of satisfaction (so far).

Smoke, Country Boys, and Playing Dress-Up In My Own Clothes

2007-10-17T02:58:00.000-07:00

* Driving through the countryside and catching a whiff of piles of leaves burning. "Smells like fall," Tim commented.

* The shiny red tractor driving up and down the field with three boys sitting on the back, very low to the ground. As they passed large rocks, they jumped out, grabbed them and hopped back on the tractor, placing the rocks next to them. It looked like fun for little kids, and the work was getting done too. It got me thinking of the broad differences between the lives of country kids and city kids.

* Getting somewhat dressed up for no reason at all other than running errands and going shopping. I wore my new silky, leopard print tank top with dark jeans and strappy high heels. My purple purse matched the small patches of purple in the shirt and I wore the bouncy purple scarf I got for a euro in Trier. My newly colored copper hair was curled and hair sprayed. On base, I shopped for storage containers to organize my closet, bought a few groceries, ran for change from the gas station so Tim and the kids could wash the van, and bought dinner from the Turkish restaurant. By the time I got home, I was happy to slip back into sweats and resume the closet project.

Batteries, Sun, and Losing Weight

2007-10-14T01:01:00.000-07:00

* Ian talking to 2" Bob The Builder and Wendy figurines: "Hi Guys!... Hi Bob!... Hi Wendy!... Ah, need batteries..." as he turns them over in his hands looking for where the batteries belong so they'll answer him.

* It looks so warm outside; the sun is shining and there's not a cloud in the sky. But when I step out onto the front steps, it's very chilly. I prefer to stay in and let my eyes fool me into believing it's balmy out.

* The distress at pulling on my newer, smaller jeans and barely managing to get them buttoned. In the two-and-a-half weeks since Tim came home, I've managed to gain back 5 of the nearly 15 I lost while he was gone. Losing that weight was such a boost to my confidence- I realized it can be done and I feel better when I fit into my real clothes rather than my fat clothes. As of today, I'm back on the wagon. Two weeks from now I will fit comfortably back in my jeans. (That will be one of my PC's for that day!)

Tiramisu Masterpiece, Lilacs, and Feeling Lighter

2007-10-13T07:53:00.000-07:00

* Watching the waitress prepare Tim's tiramisu in the kitchen. She didn't know we could see her. She poured vanilla sauce on half the plate, swirled in chocolate sauce and plopped a chilled, pre-made tiramisu next to the sauce mixture. All this she garnished with 2 slices of star fruit and a pile of whipped cream ran through artistically with a wafer cookie. She gleamed with pride when Tim exclaimed that it looked great.

* The warm weather is tricking the lilacs that it's spring. There are a few sickly looking flowers and more buds thinking of trying their hand at a early debut.

* The power of hugs and humor to lighten moods.

Cupcakes, A Party, and Silliness

2007-10-12T08:59:00.000-07:00

* Chai latte cupcakes with spiced frosting. Great adult birthday cupcakes, and perfect for fall.

* The family pulling together a small birthday celebration. Everything they bought for the occasion was from a local German store. I thought that was very appropriate for my last birthday in Germany.

* Ian and Zach hamming it up for a few short videos with my new camera.

More Raving About The Fog, King Of The Table, and Kissing 31 Good-Bye

2007-10-11T01:09:00.000-07:00

* When I drove the kid to school this morning there was a perfectly blue sky in some places and the thickest fog imaginable in other places. I had never seen anything like it until we moved to Germany. The little dips in the landscape and the small valleys surrounded by trees make for the perfect fog traps. It is like a dream to move from the surreal mist into the brilliant morning sun. I will love this beautiful extreme forever.

* Ian finishing his breakfast, then moving on to the other side of the table to polish off Zach's abandoned food. When I leaned in close to him and whispered, "Are you eating Zach's food?" he answered, "No, it's mine."

* Experiencing my last day of being 31.

Autumn, Tea Things, and "Ich spreche kein Deutsch!"

2007-10-10T06:32:00.000-07:00

* The somber, chilled feeling that comes when fall has truly settled in. About half the trees have lost their leaves, the sunshine is hazy, and soup is the best option for dinner. It's definitely fall.

* New tea cups and a new birthday tea pot. I was blessed with several new ones in the past week.

* Being spoken to in German and having no idea what is being said to me. Lately it seems to be happening often. In Bernkastel we were scolded by a lady who appeared to be opposed to the way we were transporting the stroller down the stairs. In Cologne, at the zoo, an elderly couple asked us a question about an exhibit; a dad commented lightheartedly about his son's behavior.

Nature

2007-10-09T06:16:00.001-07:00

Dandelions, Babies, and The Perfect Purse

2007-04-28T02:20:00.000-07:00

* Ian's delight in shaking the dandelion "puff balls". He shakes, smiles at them as they float away, then says, "Look! Butterflies!"

* News of new babies being born. Looking back, welcoming each of my four babies was the highlight of my life.

* Finding the perfect red purse. I've been looking for it for months, and finally found it yesterday at the BX. Never mind that it seems too dark for spring or summer and would be great in the fall.

Falling Petals, Veggie Dinner, and Painting

2007-04-26T03:09:00.000-07:00

* The warm spring breeze blows the petals off the flowering trees. Driving through the falling, swirling beauty makes me smile.

* A vegetarian dinner that no one complained about.

* Resuming my plans to paint. On one hand, this is sad because it means I'll be in this house until January rather than leaving this summer. On the other hand, I've decided to be daring with my color choices since I only have to live them for nine months.

Stop and Listen, Fall Planning, and Video Podcasts

2007-04-25T03:38:00.000-07:00

*

* Tulips and those who plant them. The thoughtfulness and planning that goes into planting them in the fall so they can be enjoyed in the spring.

* I couldn't comfort him, Tim couldn't comfort him, food couldn't quiet him... but a soundless video podcast on my iPod captivated Ian on the flight home last week. He stopped crying and watched the 10 or so short Blue's Clues and Diego podcasts over and over.

Old Wive's Tales, Victim, and Today

2007-04-23T22:49:00.000-07:00

* Overhearing a conversation at the BX about pregnancy and old wive's tales. The young ladies are convinced their friend is having a boy because she still looks good in her very early pregnancy, since a girl baby would "steal the mom's beauty."

* The anguish of the young man working at the BX who was involved in some sort of fight or incident while at work. He said, "I get it from them all day at school, now they're bringing it to my work!" I hurt for him and can't help but wonder why some people feel the need to beat others down.

* The final countdown till decisions must be made regarding our future. Even this very day is a crucial day.

Soldiers, Friends, Emotions

2007-04-20T14:28:00.000-07:00

* The soldiers coming back from the desert who doted on my boys and helped us out so much on the flight to America. They were so happy to be headed home, and commented that they haven't seen their kids for 6 months. They blessed us by defending our country, and again with their friendliness and helpfulness.

* Seeing my friends. Hearts can stay close even when years and miles and oceans separate them.

* The joy of being home, the sadness of saying good-bye, and the uncertainty of the future.

Privacy, Remembering, and Coffee

2007-04-12T22:49:00.000-07:00

* The curious way American women put up with using public restrooms with very little privacy. I first noticed it when I went into the restroom at a Mexican restaurant in town. In the huge spaces between the wall and the door of the stall, I could see a woman using the toilet. When I entered the stall next to hers, I discovered that the toilet seat is only several inches above the bottom of the stall wall. Later, at Fred Meyer I found the same lack of privacy. I had to look away from the stalls as I waited in line, for the sake of the women who I could clearly see through the enormous gaps in the construction of the stalls. It is shocking and unacceptable to me. I will avoid using public restrooms such as these whenever I can.

* Being here in my hometown and having long-forgotten phone numbers come back to me. Suddenly, I remember B's home phone number, H's work number, my mom's cell and work numbers, the number to Papa Murphy's Pizza and the numbers of several other friends.

* The over-flow of coffee shops that have sprung up all over this town. How much coffee can one town of 13,000 drink?

Old Friends, The Last Days of Jesus, Easter Service

2007-04-07T11:00:00.000-07:00

* Bumping into old friends every few minutes at a community event in our home town. Some of these people I haven't thought of for years, some of them I can't even remember their names.

* The Last Days of Jesus Production put on every year in our hometown. Growing up here, I never really thought about what a powerful event it was. Seeing it this year, especially through the eyes of 3 year-old Zach, reminded me of how awesome and thought-provoking it is.

* A Protestant Easter service in a Catholic church. Unique. Beautiful. Interesting.

Cheering Up, Silence, and Home

2007-04-02T01:03:00.000-07:00

* Feeling discouraged and having the most unexpected person cheer me up. I'm sure she didn't even know she did it.

* Savoring silence.

* Unplanned visits home. I do a fairly good job of shoving the pain of missing family and friends aside most of the time, but at the prospect of seeing them again it all comes back. I miss home.

My Apologies

2007-03-27T02:17:00.000-07:00

I apologize for the lack of posts here. After a week of dealing with stomach viruses, very little seems poetically curious. I'll be back when my brain recovers from the onslaught of smells and sights too vicious to discuss.

Bus Driver, New Life, and Waking Up

2007-03-23T00:54:00.000-07:00

* When I take the kids to their bus stop, I always wait with them until they get on the bus. A few months ago I was waving at them when the elderly, German bus driver caught sight of me and waved back. I felt embarrassed for him, that he thought I was waving at him. The next time I noticed him looking around for me. I made it a point to wave at him specifically. He gave me a big smile and a wave back. Now it's our routine. I wave at the kids; I wave at the bus driver. He always looks around for me and his face lights up when he sees me waving. At first it seemed like an odd, novel thing to be doing, until I realized that each day I trust this man to get my kids safely to school so I may as well brighten his day a bit. A happy man is more likely to think clearly and drive safely, don't you think? I hope he understands that this is my way of showing him gratitude.

* Four years ago (either today or tomorrow, I can't remember and I don't feel like rummaging through journals right now to figure it out), we had been in Germany approximately 6 weeks when I decided to do a home pregnancy test. We were "trying" and I was a day late. A baby is always miraculous, but for us it was doubly so. We had been separated five years earlier, and had gone through most of a messy divorce before reconciling days before the final court date. We moved back to our hometown, renewed our marriage vows, joined the military and moved overseas. It had been 7 years since our last child was born. That March morning as I put the test down on the edge of the bath tub I prayed, "God, show me something good." Within seconds a second line appeared. All my plans to calmly and cleverly break the news to Tim and the kids went out the window. I started shaking and ran from the room yelling, "Tim! Tim!" Sean and Kristine thought I had seen a spider, Tim thought someone had died. I showed Tim the test and he couldn't stop smiling. Kristine and I both cried. It was one of the best, most memorable days in our family. When little Zach joined the family in November, we would never be the same for the new life he brought to us.

* The relief of waking up from a nightmare you thought was real.

Futility, "Grounded", and Dark Chocolate Meets The Earl

2007-03-22T02:18:00.000-07:00

* Our neighbor, in a hooded coat, shaking snow from the tulips in her garden. She made it through about half the garden when she stood up-right, put her hands on her hips and squinted toward the sky, from which there was a steady snow fall. She turned and went back inside.

* I was never grounded as a child; that's not a punishment my parents used. When I heard that my friends were grounded, I felt bad for them but thought the term "grounded" was funny.

* Putting a Dove dark chocolate in my mouth, then taking a sip of strong earl grey tea. I haven't done this for far too long. It's awesome. (I tried dissolving chocolates in my early grey and using earl grey to mix up powdered hot chocolate but couldn't get it right. It's worth pursuing though.)

Limericks, Spring Snow, and Peace

2007-03-21T05:58:00.000-07:00

* Discovering The Limerick Lounge and writing my first couple of limericks. It's harder than it might seem, but hopefully gets easier with practice. Here is a sample:

I was up all night with my child
My eyes are drooping, my hair is wild
I need some coffee
And maybe a toffee
In hopes my fatigue will be mild

I once had a friend named Janine
Who went to London for tea with the queen
She found it a bore
So walked out the door
With crumpets stuffed into her jeans

(The idea is that Janine stole crumpets, but I'm not sure it came across just right! LOL! I'll work on that one!)

* I went to bed last night while snow fell outside. That was okay because it was still winter then. I woke up this morning to snow and it's been snowing off-and-on all morning. That's not okay because now it's spring.

* Peace that passes understanding. It's real and can't be conjured up on our own. It's a gift from God.

Snow, TV, and Decision Time

2007-03-19T02:47:00.000-07:00

* Waking up to an inch of snow covering all the beautiful spring blooms. Much of it melted off, and it's currently snowing again.

* I spent most of Saturday night watching tv, something I do about once a year. I saw cartoons (before The Boys went to bed), a British make-over show, bits of Monk and Secret Window, a Saturday Night Live from late January/early February, and an exceptionally old SNL. My conclusion: there's no better way to turn the brain off and go on auto-pilot like sitting in front of the tube. Hours sped by but felt like minutes. And when I turned it off, I felt like I'd spent a lot of time with nothing to show for it. (My other conclusion is that SNL has really become lame since I last saw it. Not that I was ever much of a fan...)

* Continuing to contemplate the future. We have a huge decision to make and the weeks to make it are slipping away. Either decision we make feels terribly wrong and right at the same time.

My New HCJ CDs!

2007-03-18T12:35:00.000-07:00

British Accents, Unexpected Plans, and Less Stuff = Less Stress

2007-03-17T01:19:00.000-07:00

* The many British people I'm meeting lately. I'd pay them for their accents.

* Last minute weekend trips.

* Packing light. I'm going to see much I can do without.

Eggs, Dedication, and Favorite Topic of Conversation

2007-03-16T05:16:00.000-07:00

* The Easter eggs hanging in trees on the lawns of many German homes. Some are cheap plastic eggs, others are higher quality, beautifully painted wooden eggs. A very quaint tradition.

* The woman who lives across the street, huffing and puffing all day in her garden. She's so dedicated, and it shows in her beautiful flower beds and garden.

* The adorable way Ian tries to make conversation with everything that interests him. It might be the sky or the sheep in the field across the street, but he always talks about his favorite thing: food. "Hi, sheep! Yummies! Applesauce! Cereal!"

Dancing, Talking, and Contemplation

2007-03-15T01:18:00.000-07:00

* It seems only dancing can pull Ian away from food! At "Family Night" at the club a couple nights ago, twenty-one-month old Ian had just settled in with a plate of spaghetti, chicken nuggets, and a corn dog when the DJ announced that it was time for all the kids to go on stage and dance. He started squealing "Dance! Dance!" and struggling to get out of his high chair. I had never really noticed him dancing and was surprised he was so excited about it. He was the only one of my four kids who went forward, and there was no stopping him. He bounced, swayed, clapped, bobbed his head, and tried his hardest to snap his fingers. He was up there through at least three songs.

* An unplanned, unexpected heart-to-heart with a friend.

* Contemplating a 20 week training program to run a 10k. If I commit I want to stick with it, so I'm attempting to evaluate my endurance level - not only for such a long run but also for the many weeks of conditioning.

Veterinarian, Wild Weather, and Purple Hair

2007-03-12T06:02:00.001-07:00

* I told Zach we were taking Gretchen to the "doggy doctor." He started giggling, and instantly I knew what he was picturing: a dog on its hind legs wearing a lab coat and a stethoscope around its neck.

* Crystal clear weather. Blue skies. Warm breeze. A heavenly day in mid-March. Next week's forecast: snow.

* The tendency for elderly German women to dye their hair one of many shades of purple. Sometimes it's only a big chunk of color right in front, sometimes it's smaller chunks mixed with chunks of another color (such as black) all over, at other times it's one solid head of maroon, purple or even reddish pink hair. Yesterday I drove past a woman walking down the street with hair the most beautiful shade of lavender lilacs.

Confidence, Red Hair, and Worship

2007-03-12T02:04:00.000-07:00

* Discovering confidence. Some people are born with it, some people acquire it early in life, some us find it budding in our 30's and do all we can to cultivate it so it blooms to its fullest.

* The intriguing relationship between having the confidence to do something and the confidence that doing that something gives. For example, I've always loved red hair and have colored my hair red a few times. Inevitably, I found that the red hair drew attention and I felt like I stuck out "like a sore thumb". I couldn't take it, so I never kept the red hair. (The same goes for my feelings about having a short hair cut.) Someone said something to me a couple weeks ago that totally clicked in my mind. She encouraged me to "own it." She pointed out how some people know their style and preferences and go with it without thought to what others think - they own their style. I ruminated on that for awhile, then decided it was time to own red hair. It took confidence to make the decision, but now that I have it, I love it. It does draw attention, but for the first time in my life I don't care. And the short red hair gives me confidence. I think this is what is referred to as "coming full circle."

* I stood on the stage and sang on the worship team at our church for the first time. (This also took confidence!) The thing that struck me is how only a few people sing, clap, raise their hands or - yikes! - even look alive out there in the congregation. My first reaction is that I should always be in the congregation, so as to add to the life out there, but Tim says the purpose of worship leaders is to show people in what ways its okay to worship God. Interesting thought.

Tulips, March, and Heather Returns

2007-03-10T04:58:00.000-08:00

* The tulips blooming among the leaf-less rose bushes in the traffic circle in Bitburg.

* The slow-dawning realization that March isn't as terrible as I've always thought. I've hated this month for as long as I can remember, so much so that I deliberately never had a baby in this month. In fact, I've always felt sorry for people born in March. This is the month that is neither truly winter and not yet spring. After a long, grey, cold winter season, March is like the purgatory of the months. Not quite living, but certainly not heaven. Maybe it's because we had such a mild winter here, but it feels like spring now, softening my feelings toward this innocent month.

* Heather's purported return to the blogosphere.

Prayer, Nests, and Neighbors

2007-03-06T00:43:00.000-08:00

* Prayer first thing in the morning. It changes my perspective for the whole day.

*Birds flying around with sticks and twigs in their mouths. They're all so busy building nests.

* Meeting a German neighbor who speaks perfect English.

Signs of Spring Photo Edition

2007-03-05T01:04:00.000-08:00

Sunshine, Hay, and Sleep

2007-03-02T00:12:00.000-08:00

* Thick clouds that break and let in an hour of brilliant sunshine. The clouds are rolling back in- I think the grey is making a come-back.

* The little red Volkswagen that drove by with a huge bail of hay in the back seat.

* Sleeping in the middle of the day. I got very little sleep last night so when the opportunity presented itself I took it. I slept 3 hours and would have slept many more if Tim hadn't called and woke me up.

Lamb, Waffles, and Kitchen Re-Organization

2007-03-01T03:36:00.000-08:00

* The first baby lamb of the season in the field I pass when going to town.

* Making waffles for Zach, who's been requesting them since he heard them mentioned on both The Backyardigans and Veggie Tales.

* Plans to rearrange my kitchen counters today. Every six months or so it does me good to step back and ask if I'm using my space efficiently.

Clouds, Good-bye, and Prayer

2007-02-28T07:50:00.000-08:00

* Big, grey clouds that looked like huge bubbles of paint in the sky.

* Saying good-bye to a friend and her daughter. B was pregnant with H when she arrived at this base, and now H is 3 years old. Today was the final farewell. While I'm glad to have known them, the good-byes aren't getting any easier.

* A group of moms in a circle praying.

Itty-Bitty Food, Sleep, and Laughter

2007-02-27T08:52:00.000-08:00

* The appeal of mini-foods to little kids. We bought mini-bagels and mini -boxes of raisins today and the boys could hardly wait to get home.

* The deep sleep brought on by exhaustion.

* Emails that make me laugh out loud. Laughing in general is a really good thing and as enjoyable as can be.

Fires, Rose Tea, and Great Expectations

2007-02-26T02:50:00.000-08:00

* Driving home from church last night and seeing multiple fires burning all over the countryside. It marks the beginning of spring here, when the communities get together and burn their Christmas trees. I'm sure there's more to the story than that, but I don't know it.

* The anticipation of receiving the package of rose tea I've been waiting for. We got a notice that a package is in for us-- I can almost taste the tea now. The company only sells it a few weeks a year, and I missed it last year. It's been nearly two years since I had this kind.

* Great Expectations by Charles Dickens. I'm only on chapter 5, but I've laughed out loud in those 5 chapters more than I have in any of the whole books I've read recently.

Soup, Recipes, and Blue-Blue Choo-Choo on Base

2007-02-23T00:11:00.000-08:00

* The comfort of a steaming bowl of soup.

* Inventing recipes: pulling all your favorite flavors into a dish you can't help but love.

* More than six months ago, Zach started talking about a "blue-blue choo-choo on base." One day he was chattering on about it and added a sentence that sounded like, "Do you really mean that?" The rest is history: he says "Blue-blue choo-choo on base. Do you really mean that?" every single night as I am tucking him and Ian in bed. When I had surgery and Tim took over tucking-in-bed responsibilities, he had to be educated on the nightly routine of Zach repeating his sentence and the standard reply of, "Oh, yes, I mean that." Now Ian, 20 months old, says it every night too. I never miss a beat, always answering in the affirmative, but I don't even know what he's talking about.

Spring, Sleep, and Less is More (Time)

2007-02-22T00:55:00.000-08:00

* I took the kids to their bus stop this morning, and parked by a wild, brambly old bush. I could barely contain my excitement when I realized the bush HAD BUDS!!! Spring, here we come!

* Falling asleep without intending to. I walked into my room with a dvd, intending to watch the end that I missed because I fell asleep when I watched it with Tim. I put it down and thought, Maybe I'll lay down on the bed for a minute and listen to a podcast on my new iDream pillow. Before I knew it, I was out of it and Sean was talking to me. The great guy was taking care of end-of-the-day business for me: blowing out candles, putting the dog away, letting Tim's guests in and out of the house, putting laundry in the dryer. He covered me up and left me with a small light on, dozing until I woke up at midnight and got ready for bed for real.

* Eliminating about half my Blogline feeds. In theory, this should mean less time spent checking blogs I don't really care about.

ADHD, Fog, and Meters

2007-02-21T01:41:00.000-08:00

* Trying to find the perfect balance of smiley tolerance and stern silence to spur the hairdresser on without irritating him. He is a classic attention deficit/hyperactive case. I was on a time limit, but he was determined to reach his goal of interrupting the hair cut 100 times, with trips to the window to open the shade, to the radio to change the station, a dozen stops at his co-worker's station to give his opinion of the cut she was doing, answering the phone a handful of times, and long, slow, slurpy sips of his Coke. He laughed and sang loudly in my ears. He was in his own little world. By the time my cut was done his next 2 appointments were waiting. (The cut turned out well. Had I upset him, maybe I wouldn't be so happy with the result!)

* Thick, thick fog that prevents seeing more than 200 meters outside the windows. It's beautiful and eery.

* Being American and measuring distance in meters.

Magazines, Plants, and Lightning Striking the Brain

2007-02-19T01:07:00.000-08:00

* Scouring magazines for good hair cuts. I'm looking for people who have fine hair like mine and similar face face shapes. I have only 24 hours left to make up my mind.

* Watering my plants. Truly a curiosity as to why I thought of it.

* Middle-of-the-night epiphanies.

Painted Toenails, Kristine Cooks, and Proof

2007-02-18T01:07:00.000-08:00

* I painted my toenails purple. I rarely do that and The Boys were enthralled. They laid on their tummies and examined my toes while I brushed my teeth.

* Kristine asked to make dinner last night. After a survey of what was available, she decided on vegetable soup. With me offering directions from the reclining chair, she chopped onion, sauteed it in olive oil, added chopped garlic (I got up to demonstrate smashing the whole clove and removing the peel, then chopping.), and water and the carrots, celery and tomatoes. She took my suggestions for adding a can of white beans and a handful of Italian spices and thickening it a bit with cornstarch. It was really, really good. I'm thinking this could be the start of a good thing. Eventually I envision turning over a few week day meals, maybe even Thanksgiving dinner. I could let her loose in the kitchen as Potluck Sunday approaches too. Having a child that cooks might turn out to be one of the best things that has happened to me in awhile.

* Watching a movie with no expectations and loving it.

Cat, Health, and Hair

2007-02-17T06:43:00.000-08:00

* The cat who lives in the house across the street who goes into the field and plays with the sheep. The sheep ignore her, but she has great fun running at them and jumping into the air when they move.

* The end of Ian's cold.

* Finally making that scary hair appointment. I have 3 days to make up my mind on the cut I want.

Stars, Birds, and Dickens

2007-02-16T02:22:00.000-08:00

* Tim and the kids left before sunrise. I opened the rolladen (shade on the outside of the window) so the sun would wake me up once it made its appearance. I was met with the breath-taking view of a sky full of bright, twinkling stars. I'm absolutely bird-brained when it comes to astronomy, but I'm sure one of the "stars" was actually a planet, and I saw several distinct constellations. It was beautiful.

* The big V-shaped formation of birds sensing a change in seasons and flying over my house yesterday.

* Finding a 1965 paper back version of Great Expectations by Charles Dickens last night on my book shelf downstairs. I nearly bought it a couple of weeks ago at the BX, but held off with a slight suspicion that I already owned it. I've never read Dickens, and am looking forward to starting it.

Sunshine, Laughing, and Getting Rich

2007-02-15T02:38:00.000-08:00

* There's nothing like a glimpse of spring to lift the winter blues: when the sun shines in the mornings, it comes right in my bedroom window. It's a glorious experience, waking up to the sun. The heavy metal shades that cover the outside of our windows were cracked open a bit, and the sun shined through the cracks, bounced off the long mirrored closet in the room and reflected back into my eyes. Besides the sun, the first thing I was aware of this morning was the smile on my face.

* Laughing with Ian in the middle of the night. He has a nasty cold and woke up with a stuffy nose and cough and a touch of fever. I stumbled out of bed, picked him up, took him to the kitchen were we ate a banana together and cracked each other up.

* Reading a friend's book on how to get rich in seven years.

View, Hiding, and Chewy Candy

2007-02-08T06:39:00.000-08:00

Wintry Mix, Snow Globe, and Binoculars

2007-02-07T04:15:00.000-08:00

* The weather term "wintry mix."

* The slow, steady falling snow makes me think of what it must be like to live in a snow globe.

* Zach calls binoculars "eye lookers." He cracks me up!

Hair, German JWs, and Syrup

2007-02-04T01:49:00.000-08:00

* Contemplating hairstyles. What a scary/exciting/nerve-wracking venture. I want something new but don't want another disaster. I'm still growing out last summer's disaster.

* German Jehovah's Witnesses knocking on our door. American JWs can't get their message through to me. German JWs may as well not even try. It's hard to spread a message through charades and hand movements. Language is important when conveying ideas.

* Kristine swears there was a lady walking through the commissary cradling her real maple syrup, with a dreamy smile on her face.

Vanity Sizing, Coma, and Sam Hill

2007-02-03T02:44:00.000-08:00

* Vanity Sizing. What an emotional boost.

* Watching Coma with Tim and seeing him yelling at the tv in frustration when the movie ended abruptly. We both laughed when he calmed down.

* I've heard, probably even said, the term "Sam Hill" a million times (as in "What in the Sam Hill is that?") and never knew it stood for "hell" and "damn." (Sorry if I've offended anyone by typing those words.) My dad used to say it all the time, and he's definitely not a cusser.

Bizarre Coincidence, Baking Dreams, and Dream Intruder

2007-02-02T01:15:00.000-08:00

* When I had surgery a couple of months ago, the anesthesiologist and the male nurse were chatting with me and verifying that I was me. The nurse asked what my social security number is, and then my birth date. He smiled when I said my birth date and looked over at the anesthesiologist. It turned out that, in some bizarre coincidence, both the nurse and the anesthesiologist shared my birthday. I just remembered this yesterday when I saw the anesthesiologist in the commissary.

* Reading through my new cookbook last night for a couple of hours before going to bed, then dreaming about baking all night.

* At 2 in the morning, Zach wandered into my dream. I was baking and taking pictures of it. I knew in the dream he was out-of-place, so I opened my eyes and he was standing by my bed.

Lighting, Moon, and Old/New Jeans

2007-02-01T02:44:00.000-08:00

* I love the favorable light of my bathroom. I look ten times better in the mirror there than anywhere else. If only I could light the whole world in just the same flattering light. It could be that I need to replace those bulbs that went out on my side of the mirror. I once heard J say that the best self-esteem booster in the world is dim light bulbs. I think he's right.

* Opening the front door this morning to let the dog out and seeing the huge luminous moon perched above the roof of the barn.

* Skinny pants- at first it seemed like a bad dream, but this pair I bought is a breath of fresh air after too many years in flared leg jeans.

Rides, Sun, and Bed Time

2007-01-31T04:11:00.000-08:00

* Noticing the way different parents deal with the coin operated car and airplane at Burger King. One mom gave her preschooler countless quarters to ride the airplane many times. I allowed one ride only, with both boys in the car because the plane was too small for both. A mom sitting by the rides shared that she never lets her kids know that the toys will move and play songs if quarters are inserted, so her kids love playing on them despite that they never move or make noises.

* The sun peaking out from the clouds and warming the inside of the car so much that we had to open the windows for some cool air.

* The way Sean values when I tuck him in bed and pray with him.

German Food, Growing, and The End

2007-01-30T10:56:00.000-08:00

* The ultimate comfort food: German. For lunch we went to the German cantina on base (a restaurant, not a bar) where we had grilled chicken salad swimming in a liter of thin milky salad dressing, a cabbage roll with sausage, savory vegetable soup, and potatoes. Always potatoes; mashed with just a hint of nutmeg, and fries. There's no comfort at the waistline, but the soul feels oh, so good.

* Breakfast out with the boys. They're growing quickly. I found myself feeling very grateful that they could both sit straight in their chairs and eat from the menu. So much has changed in a year.

* Finishing a really good book.

15 Years, Stand By Me, Lotion

2007-01-29T03:55:00.000-08:00

* Fifteen years passing since Tim asked me out for the first time.

* Staying up late to watch an old movie.

* The watermelon, key lime, and chocolate scented lotions at the BX. (I there was one that smelled of coffee I would surely buy it.) What is this odd desire to smell like food?!

Beautiful Sound, Poetry, and Pablo Neruda

2007-01-28T01:08:00.000-08:00

*The way hearing poetry makes me want to write it.

*A single line- maybe only the theme- for a poem.

*Bidding on a signed first edition Pablo Neruda book on eBay that I know I won't win. Eventually it will reach a price I'm not willing to pay.

Snowfall, Cartoons, and Pumpernickel

2007-01-27T05:43:00.000-08:00

* The first snowfall of the season. It's not much, but the kids are as excited as if it were a couple of feet.

* Cartoons. Not as flashy as computer animated images, but somehow far more comforting.

* Long forgotten pumpernickel, discovered still fresh at the back of the fridge.

Snow, A Break, and Outcries of Disgust

2007-01-26T03:16:00.000-08:00

* The first flurries of snow I've seen all season. The sun was shining while they blew around.

* Tim getting Ian up this morning and changing his diaper, giving him a bath, and getting him dressed.

* Zach's loud exclamation of "Holy moly!" when he saw the contents of Ian's diaper.

Telemarketer, Birthday Boy, and Vegetables Worshipping

2007-01-24T03:08:00.000-08:00

* Phone rings. I answer, "Hello?"

Slight delay, then a young man's voice begins prattling on in German.

I interrupt, "Sprechen zie englisch?"

He giggles. The giggling continues as he says, "Yes, a little." He hesitates. Then giggles some more. "Uh....."

I say, "I'm sorry I don't speak deutsch."

"I don't speak English well." More giggling, then he continues, "I call because you.....unterlaggen....(More giggling) lotto player."

"Lotto player?" I repeat. Good grief, a telemarketer.

"Uh, you no understand." he continues giggling.

"No, that's okay." I use my tone of voice to convey that I want this ridiculous call to end. He takes the hint.

"Ok. Cioa!"

* Celebrating the 33rd birthday of my husband.

* A Veggie Tales worship cd. It's a little weird that my kids think that talking and singing vegetables are normal. It's awesome though to hear them singing modern worship songs like they were any popular children's songs.

Cold, Absorbed, and Tim's Car Sign

2007-01-24T02:31:00.000-08:00

Playing catch up for all the days I missed. A special 3 photo edition of today's Poetical Curiosity.

Granny Smith, Recipes, and a Website

2007-01-24T02:00:00.000-08:00

* The smell of Granny Smith applesauce in Ian's hair after breakfast. I almost hated to wash it out!

* Spending the morning sorting through recipes, trying to decide.

* Setting up a surprise website for my husband's business. I think I was more excited than he was.

Breakfast, Sleep, and Blog

2007-01-20T12:34:00.000-08:00

* Special birthday breakfast: eggs, hashbrowns, cinnamon rolls, and bacon all in honor of turning thirteen. The friends who slept over didn't appreciate everything, but the Birthday Boy did, and that was the point.

* Going to bed early.

* Finding the blog "Writer Quotes."

Lavender, The Jitters, and 13

2007-01-19T09:31:00.000-08:00

* A tea light under a water-lavender oil mix in a shallow glass bowl. The pleasant scent is filling half the upstairs in the house. I haven't lit it since we moved here. Now I wish I had lit it months ago. How many hours of soothing scent I've missed!

* The dog is jittery today at the silence. After two days and a night of howling wind, she is unnerved by the quiet.

* Prompted by my son's birthday, I spent a bit of today contemplating my own 13th year. What a terribly awkward time that was.

Relief, Wee-woy, and Lights Out

2007-01-17T11:57:00.000-08:00

* The way poor Ian's pitiful cries turned to happy cooing as I used warm wet cotton balls to unstick his eyes and remove the Pink Eye goop. When I was done he said "More!" and reached for another cotton ball. I wet it for him and he held it to his eye.

* Zach pronouncing Eeyore like "Wee-woy." Sometimes the proper pronunciation doesn't even come to my mind when I try to say Eeyore.

* The astounding motivation I felt to get the housework done quickly when the lights went out. Not knowing when they would be coming back on, I rushed to get things done before dark. The lights came back after only an hour, and most of my scheduled chores had been done.

Kneading, Phone Call, and Paninis

2007-01-17T07:24:00.000-08:00

* Kneading bread with The Goo Goo Dolls playing in my ears. Kneading is so therapeutic. I usually rely on the bread machine to do everything when making bread, but I decided to make bread sticks today so I had to knead, rise and bake without mechanical aid. This may be the start of a new phase of bread making for me. It was awesome.

* A comforting phone call from my friend B. She saw my bulletin on MySpace about the car accident and called to check on us.

* Finally making panini sandwiches based on the sandwich I had at the Walnut Festival in Vianden, Luxemburg. I like trying to copy good food I have while out and about.

Tim, Sean, and Kristine

2007-01-16T07:58:00.000-08:00

* Tim: for putting his arms around me last night and kissing me; for that moment when I saw his silhouette in the bedroom doorway as he walked away to go to work and I felt a prayer of safety for him and the kids; for thinking about me and calling before even stepping out of his wrecked car; for going to work even though he was offered the day off; for kissing all of us before leaving this afternoon; for eating whatever I make for dinner; for keeping the car full of all their necessary fluids and taking care of all the repairs; for bringing home the bacon...and the blue cheese and the mangoes and the soy milk and the meals from Papa Razo's; for marrying me and loving me and your family.

* Sean: for being so responsible to wake your sister up each morning and get ready for school without prompting; for your grace-full behavior concerning the car accident; for not complaining about the pain or the unsightly bruising; for sitting by your little brothers and keeping them happy with dvd's and your Nintendo DS; for your happy, resounding laugh; for having such a great smile; for taking care of the dog so faithfully; for saying you will always be a man of God; for making me a mama.

* Kristine: for being so quiet every morning so the little ones will stay asleep; for getting in the car and waiting for Dad; for sitting up straight and keeping your seat belt across your hips like I always nag you to; for being patient at the krankenhaus during all the x-rays and examinations; for letting me hug you while you cried in the waiting room; for going to school despite the wreck; for being so big and finding Dad after school; for being helpful and kind; for loving your brothers; for having a unique sense of humor that I love; for being my only daughter.

Cute, No Cooking, and Laughing

2007-01-15T08:46:00.000-08:00

* Pulling my hair into two tiny buns, like bug antenna on the back of my head. Since my first boyfriend called me "cute" more than 17 years ago I've resisted fitting the description; today I'm embracing it. Tim and the boys didn't notice. Kristine did right away and immediately pronounced it... CUTE!

* A day of not cooking because almost everyone in the house has a stomach virus. I found time to read a chapter of the book I'm having a hard time putting down.

* Laughing so hard while reading that book last night I could hardly catch my breath, then dreaming of laughing while reading.

Dusk, Favorite Tea Cup, and Pitching In

2007-01-14T08:16:00.000-08:00

* Emerald-green hills layered under a rich blue sky at dusk.

* Sipping tea from the cup I brought back from home two years ago. I bought it at the tea shop there and wrapped it really well before packing it in my suitcase. It made the journey without mishap.

* Tim cleaning the floor while I clean the little boy that vomited there. There's nothing like parental teamwork.

Butterfly, Italian Sandwich, and Reading In Bed

2007-01-13T07:25:00.000-08:00

* A butterfly in the front lawn in January.

* Three cheese panini sandwiches.

* Going to bed right after the little boys and reading for two hours.

Language, Bakeries, and Pleasant Play Times

2007-01-12T11:42:00.000-08:00

* Visiting a new German town, very near the Luxemburg border, where the language is slightly different than we're used to.

* Bakeries.

* Zach's sudden interest in playing in his room for hours at a time. I've been organizing it and putting up posters, making it a more pleasant place to hang out.

Mr. Nice Guy, Safe Driving, and A Thought

2007-01-11T11:41:00.000-08:00

* The great guy who works at the restaurant who always pays special attention to us because he "knows us." He goes out of his way to helps us out, and I don't even know his name.

* The manager of the commissary speaking over the public address system, warning everyone of bad road conditions, and urging us to be careful and safe.

* Having a thought I've never had before.

Tears, Jeans, and Boots

2007-01-10T11:52:00.000-08:00

* Tears of sadness and joy at the same time.

* Vanity sizing. It's the only explanation for the small skinny jeans I fit into in the dressing room today.

* 50% off lipstick red winter boots. Still, I didn't buy them. Should I?!

The End, R, and Bread

2007-01-09T12:05:00.000-08:00

* How everything always seems to work out in the end.

* An email message from R, my long-lost friend from elementary school days.

* My "hatin' to love it" relationship with bread. Adkin's and South Beach Diet were made for people like me. I wasn't made for them.

A, No-Labor Meals, and Pictures

2007-01-08T11:56:00.000-08:00

* A, a friend from high school I haven't seen for nearly 13 years, advising me about cameras and picture editing programs through MySpace messages.

* The beautiful ease of frozen dinners.

* 130 pictures of a loaf of bread.

Bugs, Jason, and The Holy Spirit

2007-01-07T11:40:00.000-08:00

* Zach woke me up, tugging me out of bed and yelling, "There's a bug running around my room! Get up, Mama! There's a bug running around my room! Help me! Get up!" I stumbled out of bed, reached for my glasses and asked, "Is it on the ceiling?" He answered, "No. It's running around on my bed." I pulled my jeans on. "Is it big or little?" He says, "It's big! Hurry, Mama! There's a big bug running around my room!" He was truly upset. When we walked into his room, he hurried to the opposite side of the room from his bed, pointing and yelling, "There! See it? A bug!" He was pointing at a small piece of lint. Good Grief.

* The way my little brother always tries to make time to email me, despite a full-time job, the Army, and a girlfriend.

* That unmistakable still small voice.

Mama's Love, Rain, and Garage Doors

2007-01-06T12:20:00.000-08:00

* Caring for a succession of sick kids. No matter how old they are, they need Mama when they don't feel well.

* My German neighbor running through her garden to get in out of the rain.

* The joys and frustrations of garage door openers.

Walnuts, HCJ, and Snapping

2007-01-05T12:23:00.000-08:00

* Tim eating a whole walnut off the top of my dessert, right after learning from the allergist (and a bunch of allergy pin pricks all over his back) that he really isn't allergic to them, despite what he's believed for more years than I've known him. He was hesitant, even refusing for a minute, then popped it into his mouth.

* Zach's enthusiasm for Harry Connick, Jr.

* "Mama, Look!" Ian called me to turn in the van and see him rubbing his index fingers and thumbs together in an adorable attempt at snapping his fingers. He was so proud of himself.

New ID, My Author-Daughter, and a Former Acquaintance

2007-01-03T11:17:00.000-08:00

* The desire to abandon myself and be someone new, even if just in the form of a MySpace page.

* Kristine writing books for her little brothers. Very sweet.

* Recognizing someones name from my old church, which I haven't attended in about seven years. I wonder how many people I used to know still go there. I would love to go back and visit.

Friends, Recipe, and The Boys With Their Friend H

2007-01-02T13:28:00.000-08:00

* Having friends over for dinner.

* Making the Lime Chicken Soft Tacos better by winging it than by following the recipe.

* Despite his beloved friend being at his house, Zach fell asleep on the couch. Ian enjoyed H's full attention for the rest of the night.

Nap, Instant Messaging, and Shock-Inducing Filth

2007-01-01T13:36:00.000-08:00

* A much-needed two hour nap.

* Instant messaging with Tim's Italian cousin. I don't know him very well and appreciated that he was willing to spend a few minutes chatting with me.

* Zach's shocked response of "GOLLY!" to the outrageously filthy public restroom.

POP!, Fireworks, and Nancy

2007-01-01T04:13:00.000-08:00

* The pop of the champagne cork right at the stroke of midnight.

* Standing in a wild rain/wind storm to see the fireworks exploding all around our house.

* A long talk with my mother-in-law on her birthday. I'm grateful for the way our relationship has changed and grown over the years. Happy Birthday, Nancy!

Conversation, New Hobbies, and Japanese Snacks

2006-12-30T12:06:00.000-08:00

* Communicating with my German landlord over the phone. His thick accent and broken English, the delay between the time I hear the words and understand them- it all makes for a very interesting conversation.

* Learning to knit.

* Hot Wasabi Peas.

God Bless Steve Jobs, Weight Loss, and Elmo

2006-12-29T09:53:00.000-08:00

* The soundtrack of my life playing in my ears, courtesy of my new iPod. Ah, nothing beats Harry Connick, Jr. at the end of a long day. Or any time, for that matter.

* The prospect of finally losing the post-baby weight, thanks to my new get-fit accountability buddy, Heather!

* My boys's fascination with Elmo.

American Movies in German, Knitting, and Boy's Best Friend

2006-12-28T15:07:00.000-08:00

* Old James Bond movies in German.

* Making plans with my daughter to teach ourselves how to knit with the book she got for Christmas.

* Ian straightening the dog's sweater, then sending her off with a kiss and a "There you go!" ("Geh goo go!")

White Trees, Anticipation, and Steam

2006-12-27T13:55:00.000-08:00

* Beautiful, white trees covered in frost.

* The excitement of waiting for the first anticipated snowfall.

* Standing on the toilet with croupy Ian so we can reach the steam hovering high up, near the ceiling.

ER Docs, Croup, and Sound Sleep

2006-12-26T13:35:00.000-08:00

* Kind doctors who understand that, even though the preschooler is running full-force around the room gleefully getting into everything, when the decision was made to visit the ER he really was feverish and lethargic.

* Satisfactory explanations for an illness, and finding the proper way to deal with it. (Knowing is half the battle, and Ian will be fine.)

* Coming home to find Zach already in bed asleep.

Annual Movie, Christmas Breakfast, and Ill Child

2006-12-24T12:48:00.000-08:00

* Our yearly Christmas Eve watching of It's A Wonderful Life.

* Looking forward to the family's annual Christmas breakfast. Somehow the rather mundane breakfast foods of cinnamon rolls, oranges, eggs, bacon, and spiced tea make for a festive meal that is eaten with more delight than any other meal of the year.

* Cuddling a feverish son. He leans on me, eyes rather empty, face expressionless. When I start to pass him off to his sister so I can finish the baking, he cries and reaches for me. When I stay, he calms and sleeps.