Thursday, May 30, 2013
The Unexpected Question
The Unexpected Question--
"I have a question to ask you," she said.
It was a summer day. Following me into my driveway was a car I did not recognize. When the car door opened, it was one of my former students. Teachers don't like to admit that some students hold a special place in their heart. That would appear to be playing favorites. However, I had always felt a bond with this young woman.
We sat in my family room and chatted about what was happening with her and her former classmates. I knew she had a secret, but that secret was hers to share. I would not ask about it unless she opened the conversation. Eventually, she asked if I knew. Yes, I did know. At that point the conversation shifted to more woman to woman things than to teacher/student things. We visited about how things would change. She was pregnant.
After talking about how the pregnancy was going, she said she had come to ask me a question. I honestly had no idea what was about to fill the space around my ears. It was evident she had given this question much thought. Would I be her birth partner?
Ok--she had been in my English classes in junior high and in chorus. She had been a performer in a few musicals. But, we had never talked about serious things with the exception of a short story or novel. And now she was asking me to perform a service that went way beyond my experience. To say I was surprised would be a gross understatement.
As I sat on the sofa facing her, my thoughts were whirling in my head. I had a few questions to ask her before I answered. How about a close friend? Or her mother? or a relative? No, she had made the decision that I would do the best job of coaching her through the birth.
What could I say? I said I was honored that she had thought about me. Yes, I would do that for/with her. But, if someone else came to her mind or she changed her mind, that was perfectly ok with me. We agreed. We would take the Lamaze classes. She would let me know when they started.
When she drove away, I was well aware that she had ticked off one important item on her list of things to get done. This precious young woman was about to embark on a new journey that would change her life forever. And I was allowed to be a small part of that change. Was I frightened? You bet. What if I did something wrong? What if I fainted? What if I got scared? What if.......
We did go to classes and learned the breathing techniques. I had had a natural childbirth and had attended the classes so there was a little knowledge about what to expect. She did really well at the classes.
The call--come now. Off to the hospital at break neck speed. I am not sure why we do this. Usually it takes a long time for a baby to pop into the world. There she was. Hooked up to the machine that would monitor her contractions. She was on a journey.
Together we worked that breathing. And then it was time for the baby to arrive. I coached her through the entire process. We worked like a team who had been doing this for years. A beautiful little girl came screaming into the world and into her mother's arms. Did I say we all cried? I think I cried more from relief that I had not messed this whole thing up!
After it was finished, I gathered myself to leave. A birthing nurse approached me with another question. By this time questions had begun to scare me. She said I had done the best job of coaching she had ever seen. Would I be interested in doing that for other women? Would I become a birth coach? Without any hesitation, I responded. No. I had agreed to do this for my friend. Once was enough.
Maybe the point of this is we never know what we might be asked to do. We always have a choice to say no, but saying no means we deprive ourselves and others of wonderful memories and blessings. I asked my friend why she had chosen me. She said she knew I could do this because I worked with junior high students, and she never saw me lose my cool. Was this an accurate picture she had of me? Heck no. I lost my cool many times. She just wasn't around!
Back to the point--before we automatically say no to something that is beyond our experience, maybe we should take a moment and think. Never in my life did I expect to be asked that question. Yet, that question and the shared time enriched me life. I had a choice. I could have said no because I was afraid. Was I afraid? Yes. But, I trusted her faith in me to do something so magnificent for her.
The unexpected knocks on our doors. Will you answer?
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
A Frustrating Day
A Frustrating Day--
Ever have a frustrating day? Of course you have. We all have those days when not much goes according to plan. Today I won the prize. The most frustrating day in awhile. It actually started four days ago.
Four days ago we realized we had no hot water. Not a real surprise as the hot water heater is 41 years old. I guess it simply got tired of doing the same boring job day after day after day. I know I certainly would.
We went to a store and purchased a new one. We knew it could not be installed due to the long holiday weekend. That was expected. The clerk told us we would be on the top of the list to have it installed Tuesday when the holiday weekend ended. Having a hot tub turned out to be a real blessing. At least we could sit in water! Washing hair in very cold water closes up those pores in the head. But the hair did get clean.
Tuesday arrived. The hot water heater would be installed early. Well, maybe not. Maybe mid-morning. Well, maybe not. Early afternoon? Well, maybe not. You get my drift. After a few phone calls that were not answered to our liking, we decided to return to the store and visit with the manager about the non-events of the day.
First, let me assure you, we were nice. More is accomplished with a touch of grace than with anger when things go so wrong. We took a timeline with us to share with the one in charge. We sat at a patio set. Our main challenge was the lack of communication. Phone calls not returned. Promises made that were not honored. The conversation took about twenty minutes.
The manager agreed with us that things had been handled badly. At the next meeting of all the associates communication would be addressed. We were thanked for bringing the events of the four days to her attention. She even took a sizable sum off the purchase price of the hot water heater. That came as a surprise as we had never given a thought to anything like that. Our purpose in the visit was to explain from a customer's point of view what had happened. We felt like we should do that face to face.
The hot water heater is to be installed in the morning. I will believe it when the plumber arrives and begins work.
It has been a frustrating few days. Other things added to the frustration. I won't bore you with the details.
Maybe it is the fact that one frustration piled up on another that made the day seem endless. Seems like when things begin to go south, everything makes the decision to jump on that wagon. Try as you might, the direction is already determined. You ain't stoppin it!
Tomorrow is a new day. A new beginning. Today's stuff will be a memory. I will have a blank page to fill with whatever I want. I am looking forward to that.
But, most of all I am looking forward to the return of a grateful spirit. This was nothing. Simply an inconvenience. So much to learn....
Ever have a frustrating day? Of course you have. We all have those days when not much goes according to plan. Today I won the prize. The most frustrating day in awhile. It actually started four days ago.
Four days ago we realized we had no hot water. Not a real surprise as the hot water heater is 41 years old. I guess it simply got tired of doing the same boring job day after day after day. I know I certainly would.
We went to a store and purchased a new one. We knew it could not be installed due to the long holiday weekend. That was expected. The clerk told us we would be on the top of the list to have it installed Tuesday when the holiday weekend ended. Having a hot tub turned out to be a real blessing. At least we could sit in water! Washing hair in very cold water closes up those pores in the head. But the hair did get clean.
Tuesday arrived. The hot water heater would be installed early. Well, maybe not. Maybe mid-morning. Well, maybe not. Early afternoon? Well, maybe not. You get my drift. After a few phone calls that were not answered to our liking, we decided to return to the store and visit with the manager about the non-events of the day.
First, let me assure you, we were nice. More is accomplished with a touch of grace than with anger when things go so wrong. We took a timeline with us to share with the one in charge. We sat at a patio set. Our main challenge was the lack of communication. Phone calls not returned. Promises made that were not honored. The conversation took about twenty minutes.
The manager agreed with us that things had been handled badly. At the next meeting of all the associates communication would be addressed. We were thanked for bringing the events of the four days to her attention. She even took a sizable sum off the purchase price of the hot water heater. That came as a surprise as we had never given a thought to anything like that. Our purpose in the visit was to explain from a customer's point of view what had happened. We felt like we should do that face to face.
The hot water heater is to be installed in the morning. I will believe it when the plumber arrives and begins work.
It has been a frustrating few days. Other things added to the frustration. I won't bore you with the details.
Maybe it is the fact that one frustration piled up on another that made the day seem endless. Seems like when things begin to go south, everything makes the decision to jump on that wagon. Try as you might, the direction is already determined. You ain't stoppin it!
Tomorrow is a new day. A new beginning. Today's stuff will be a memory. I will have a blank page to fill with whatever I want. I am looking forward to that.
But, most of all I am looking forward to the return of a grateful spirit. This was nothing. Simply an inconvenience. So much to learn....
Sunday, May 26, 2013
This Day Calls Us
This Day Calls Us--
This day calls you and me. Do we recognize its call?
Calls come when we are listening, and when we are not. It is possible they interrupt our routine thus causing us to miss them. The volume might be turned down--that would be the volume in our heads. Perhaps the call is one that we do not recognize. We might choose to ignore a call we do not recognize.
It could be we recognize the call, but it holds no interest for us. We make the decision to wait for the next call that has a better chance of catching our imagination.
What are these calls? Well, they could be a thought. Suddenly our mind is flooded with a thought that won't go away. For instance, the thought might suggest a new direction. That happened to me once. Alone in my house, I heard a voice--a thought?--suggesting I call a radio station. I wrote about this in my book. (You can buy one to learn about that call!) The end result of that call led me into a new experience. And it was a wonderful experience. My choice to answer that call was one of the blessings of my life.
Maybe the call is to explore our own space. To see it with new eyes. To appreciate it. Most of us do not live in mansions. Perhaps there are areas of our space in dire need of repair. When I was teaching, I never really saw all the things that needed attention in our home. But, when summer arrived, I saw them. In fact, I saw those areas much more than I saw the good. All those areas within my space drove me to distraction until they were made right. An important call for me to answer is the call that urges me to paint a picture on the land around our home. Creating beauty with plants, trees and shrubs is a call that I cannot ignore. There is a peaceful feeling that covers my being when I discover a plant flowering, a wildflower blooming, new growth on shrubs.
How about the space inside our heads? Do we feel a call to understand others? Do we continue to grow in knowledge? Are we kind? Do we feel called to forgive even when it is the most difficult thing we have ever done? That space inside our head has great power. It can deceive us. Yes, it can. With what do we fill our head? Whatever that is, it will spill out into our daily lives.
It could be a nagging. This call has an urgency to it. It is attempting to get our attention. Maybe someone is sick, and we have felt a nagging to visit. We may have put that off--pushed it into the back of our minds because we really don't want to do that. Or maybe it is a chore we have ignored. We are very aware that it is waiting to be completed. Or maybe we are being called to touch base with someone who needs our call. What shall we do with that nagging?
Could it be the call is urging us to take better care of ourselves? This call is a reminder that we are making choices about our lives. What we eat, how often we exercise both our bodies and our minds. So many calls. I will think about the calls I hear in my life. I will think about the ones I respond to, and the ones I don't. I think that will tell me much about myself.
I hear sleep calling to me right now. I will answer!
This day calls you and me. Do we recognize its call?
Calls come when we are listening, and when we are not. It is possible they interrupt our routine thus causing us to miss them. The volume might be turned down--that would be the volume in our heads. Perhaps the call is one that we do not recognize. We might choose to ignore a call we do not recognize.
It could be we recognize the call, but it holds no interest for us. We make the decision to wait for the next call that has a better chance of catching our imagination.
What are these calls? Well, they could be a thought. Suddenly our mind is flooded with a thought that won't go away. For instance, the thought might suggest a new direction. That happened to me once. Alone in my house, I heard a voice--a thought?--suggesting I call a radio station. I wrote about this in my book. (You can buy one to learn about that call!) The end result of that call led me into a new experience. And it was a wonderful experience. My choice to answer that call was one of the blessings of my life.
Maybe the call is to explore our own space. To see it with new eyes. To appreciate it. Most of us do not live in mansions. Perhaps there are areas of our space in dire need of repair. When I was teaching, I never really saw all the things that needed attention in our home. But, when summer arrived, I saw them. In fact, I saw those areas much more than I saw the good. All those areas within my space drove me to distraction until they were made right. An important call for me to answer is the call that urges me to paint a picture on the land around our home. Creating beauty with plants, trees and shrubs is a call that I cannot ignore. There is a peaceful feeling that covers my being when I discover a plant flowering, a wildflower blooming, new growth on shrubs.
How about the space inside our heads? Do we feel a call to understand others? Do we continue to grow in knowledge? Are we kind? Do we feel called to forgive even when it is the most difficult thing we have ever done? That space inside our head has great power. It can deceive us. Yes, it can. With what do we fill our head? Whatever that is, it will spill out into our daily lives.
It could be a nagging. This call has an urgency to it. It is attempting to get our attention. Maybe someone is sick, and we have felt a nagging to visit. We may have put that off--pushed it into the back of our minds because we really don't want to do that. Or maybe it is a chore we have ignored. We are very aware that it is waiting to be completed. Or maybe we are being called to touch base with someone who needs our call. What shall we do with that nagging?
Could it be the call is urging us to take better care of ourselves? This call is a reminder that we are making choices about our lives. What we eat, how often we exercise both our bodies and our minds. So many calls. I will think about the calls I hear in my life. I will think about the ones I respond to, and the ones I don't. I think that will tell me much about myself.
I hear sleep calling to me right now. I will answer!
Friday, May 24, 2013
The Crosswalk
The Crosswalk--
An observation for parents and caregivers of children--
I was crossing a very busy walkway. Cars were everywhere. There were stop signs and a crosswalk urging vehicles to stop. To be careful and watchful of those crossing legally. Traffic was heavy. While I waited for cars to pass, I observed something quite interesting.
An adult woman and child approached the crosswalk. The adult asked this question.
"Can you hold my hand? I want you to be safe. Thank you."
The child reached for her hand, and together they safely navigated the crosswalk and entered the store.
Before I could cross, I observed another adult and child. This is what I heard.
"Give me your hand."
She reached for his hand, and he snatched it away. She reached again. His little body became rigid, and he again refused. She finally took his hand. They proceeded into the store.
Both adults were concerned for the safety of the child in their care. Both wanted to be certain that an accident did not occur. Yet, the way they approached the situation was so different.
The first adult brought the child into the situation and explained why she wanted to take his hand. She asked if she could help him. And then she thanked him for agreeing. This child offered his hand because he understood why she was asking for it. As they walked into the store, they were smiling and talking. Such a pleasant thing to observe.
The second adult issued a command. He wanted no part of the command. He became quite upset that she wanted to hold his hand. He probably thought he was old enough to watch for cars. Or maybe the tone of voice caused him to rebel. He did rebel. She was right in taking his hand even if he didn't offer it. Safely always wins. There was tension between them as they walked into the store. He tried to pull his hand away all the way to the store. I wondered if he would have reacted differently had she asked for his hand instead of demanded it.
This encounter caused me to think about how we talk to one another even as adults. Adults become defensive when issued a command. We want to be involved in the process. We want to agree to do something rather than be told. A smart boss knows this. They engage their employees. They value their opinions. There are times when orders must be given for the safety of everyone. Those times are the exception. A leader understands that giving others their voice means a much happier workplace.
Spouses, partners, children, co-workers, friends, family--we all respond to a kind tone. And as I write this, I am aware that I don't always use a kind tone. Especially at home. I think I have some work to do!
Be safe this weekend!
An observation for parents and caregivers of children--
I was crossing a very busy walkway. Cars were everywhere. There were stop signs and a crosswalk urging vehicles to stop. To be careful and watchful of those crossing legally. Traffic was heavy. While I waited for cars to pass, I observed something quite interesting.
An adult woman and child approached the crosswalk. The adult asked this question.
"Can you hold my hand? I want you to be safe. Thank you."
The child reached for her hand, and together they safely navigated the crosswalk and entered the store.
Before I could cross, I observed another adult and child. This is what I heard.
"Give me your hand."
She reached for his hand, and he snatched it away. She reached again. His little body became rigid, and he again refused. She finally took his hand. They proceeded into the store.
Both adults were concerned for the safety of the child in their care. Both wanted to be certain that an accident did not occur. Yet, the way they approached the situation was so different.
The first adult brought the child into the situation and explained why she wanted to take his hand. She asked if she could help him. And then she thanked him for agreeing. This child offered his hand because he understood why she was asking for it. As they walked into the store, they were smiling and talking. Such a pleasant thing to observe.
The second adult issued a command. He wanted no part of the command. He became quite upset that she wanted to hold his hand. He probably thought he was old enough to watch for cars. Or maybe the tone of voice caused him to rebel. He did rebel. She was right in taking his hand even if he didn't offer it. Safely always wins. There was tension between them as they walked into the store. He tried to pull his hand away all the way to the store. I wondered if he would have reacted differently had she asked for his hand instead of demanded it.
This encounter caused me to think about how we talk to one another even as adults. Adults become defensive when issued a command. We want to be involved in the process. We want to agree to do something rather than be told. A smart boss knows this. They engage their employees. They value their opinions. There are times when orders must be given for the safety of everyone. Those times are the exception. A leader understands that giving others their voice means a much happier workplace.
Spouses, partners, children, co-workers, friends, family--we all respond to a kind tone. And as I write this, I am aware that I don't always use a kind tone. Especially at home. I think I have some work to do!
Be safe this weekend!
Thursday, May 23, 2013
Spin Cycle of Life
Spin Cycle of Life--
Sometimes I feel I am "stuck in the spin cycle of life." That is a quote I read from a Kristen Hannah book. It hit a spot with me. Stuck in the spin cycle--going round and round with no particular destination.
Could it mean that we do the same things, talk to the same people, walk the same walk day after day after day? Is that a bad thing? When you read that phrase, does it sound an alarm in your life, or does it feel familiar and comfy?
The key word is "stuck." There are millions of folks who would probably share that they love their life. It brings them joy just as it is. There is no thought of switching anything around. There is a peace for them in knowing what to expect each day. The daily routine is broken only when an unexpected event arises. They would disagree with the notion that they are stuck in anything. I agree with them. If happiness and contentment comes from a regular routine with no surprises, then certainly they are not stuck.
Then there are those of us who constantly seek something different. It can be as simple as driving home a new way. Maybe even going out of our way in order to do that. Or rearranging the furniture. That simple think breathes new life into a room. Maybe moving art around or taking something from another room and finding a new location for it. We like a certain amount of routine that gets our chores done. Beyond that, we are constantly on the look-out for an adventure. That adventure might be meeting a friend for lunch in a totally new place, trying food we have never tried before. It doesn't mean we alter our lifestyle. It means a steady routine of the same things kills our creative juices.
I will confess that I don't want to be stuck in the spin cycle of life. This world we have been given has so much to offer. I want to see more and do more. Some of that seeing and doing will require a bit of travel. Some of it won't. Having new experiences stirs my spirit. I feel refreshed by new experiences. Often those experiences give me the shove I need to do the thing I never thought I could do.
Writing falls into that category. Many years ago I had a very unique experience. I listened and followed that listening. And in the process I mentioned that writing was very difficult. Expressing myself in a way that others would understand was agony. The reply was if it were easy, everyone would be doing it. I was told to keep communicating through writing. There is no doubt in my mind that what I share is not world shattering. But, if what I write touches one person, it is more than enough.
However, I get stuck in that spin cycle often. My computer, desk, lamp, paper--all the things I need to write--are setting waiting. And what do I do? Avoid. I wash a dish, fold a load of laundry, check emails, watch a tv program--anything to avoid the solitary task of writing. I simply go round and round. Because of that, days may pass before I force myself to sit down, place my fingers on the keys and begin. How freeing it is when I quiet my spirit and write. Writing takes me in new directions. I think about who might be reading and what their lives might be like. The spin cycle is turned off.
So, now that I have shared my spin cycle story, do you find yourself in one, also? Do you put off the very thing that will bring you the most pleasure because of--who knows what? What would it take for you to move toward it instead of away from it?
Spin, spin, spin. Stop.
Sometimes I feel I am "stuck in the spin cycle of life." That is a quote I read from a Kristen Hannah book. It hit a spot with me. Stuck in the spin cycle--going round and round with no particular destination.
Could it mean that we do the same things, talk to the same people, walk the same walk day after day after day? Is that a bad thing? When you read that phrase, does it sound an alarm in your life, or does it feel familiar and comfy?
The key word is "stuck." There are millions of folks who would probably share that they love their life. It brings them joy just as it is. There is no thought of switching anything around. There is a peace for them in knowing what to expect each day. The daily routine is broken only when an unexpected event arises. They would disagree with the notion that they are stuck in anything. I agree with them. If happiness and contentment comes from a regular routine with no surprises, then certainly they are not stuck.
Then there are those of us who constantly seek something different. It can be as simple as driving home a new way. Maybe even going out of our way in order to do that. Or rearranging the furniture. That simple think breathes new life into a room. Maybe moving art around or taking something from another room and finding a new location for it. We like a certain amount of routine that gets our chores done. Beyond that, we are constantly on the look-out for an adventure. That adventure might be meeting a friend for lunch in a totally new place, trying food we have never tried before. It doesn't mean we alter our lifestyle. It means a steady routine of the same things kills our creative juices.
I will confess that I don't want to be stuck in the spin cycle of life. This world we have been given has so much to offer. I want to see more and do more. Some of that seeing and doing will require a bit of travel. Some of it won't. Having new experiences stirs my spirit. I feel refreshed by new experiences. Often those experiences give me the shove I need to do the thing I never thought I could do.
Writing falls into that category. Many years ago I had a very unique experience. I listened and followed that listening. And in the process I mentioned that writing was very difficult. Expressing myself in a way that others would understand was agony. The reply was if it were easy, everyone would be doing it. I was told to keep communicating through writing. There is no doubt in my mind that what I share is not world shattering. But, if what I write touches one person, it is more than enough.
However, I get stuck in that spin cycle often. My computer, desk, lamp, paper--all the things I need to write--are setting waiting. And what do I do? Avoid. I wash a dish, fold a load of laundry, check emails, watch a tv program--anything to avoid the solitary task of writing. I simply go round and round. Because of that, days may pass before I force myself to sit down, place my fingers on the keys and begin. How freeing it is when I quiet my spirit and write. Writing takes me in new directions. I think about who might be reading and what their lives might be like. The spin cycle is turned off.
So, now that I have shared my spin cycle story, do you find yourself in one, also? Do you put off the very thing that will bring you the most pleasure because of--who knows what? What would it take for you to move toward it instead of away from it?
Spin, spin, spin. Stop.
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
Forever Changed
Forever Changed--
The day begins like all other days. Alarms sound. People hit the snooze button for that extra few winks. Birds welcome this day with lovely songs. It is a day like all others.
Parents rouse sleeping children. Time to get ready for school. Wash faces, brush teeth, comb through sleep tangled hair. Where are the shoes? What outfit? All books in the book bag? Time for a quick breakfast before we kiss goodbye. Toast, scrambled eggs, pancakes, juice, milk. Or maybe a bar of some sort.
Everything in place for another day at school and work. An ordinary day. Parents drop off kids at school. Remind them to have a wonderful day. To be sure they do their lessons well. Eat all the food on their plate at lunch. See you in a few hours.
A day like all others. Parents and those who watch after children hurry off to begin their own day. Coffee first. Maybe coffee from the service station or the drive-thru. Cell phone charged. Thinking about the work that they will start in a few minutes.
It all started so innocently. The usual morning. Cranky kids, forgotten items, hugs and kisses. Families being families.
Another plan is in motion. One that will forever alter the lives of those in this small town. Wind is meeting wind. Clouds are forming. A different type of day is about to be born. One that will damage people, places and possessions.
And then the alarm sounds. It is the alarm that means a tornado is coming. People understand this. They have experienced this before. Terror grips their souls as they attempt to make the best decisions that will mean they and their loved ones survive. Where to go for safety? Did the school move the students to safe places? Yes, of course they did. But parents must ask that question.
This massive force of destruction has its way with this town and its people. It has a mind of its own. It works its horror and then moves on. It has no feelings. It simply is. It formed and grew into a monster. No one could stop it.
Where are the neighbors? Where are the homes and businesses? And where are the children? Those precious children who followed the instructions that hopefully would keep them from harm. They went to the safest place in the school. They covered their heads. They were afraid. Teachers calmly talked with them. Assured them that they would be ok. It was the right thing to do.
If only. If only the storm had veered a bit into fields where no homes stood. If only there had been another opportunity to brush back the hair from the face. if only there had been time to look into those eyes once again. If onlys can go on forever.
People will start over. That is what we do. In the midst of complete devastation and loss, people will stand tall. They will take care of others as well as themselves. They will offer solace to those whose loss is beyond words. It will take time--so much time.
Be kind to one another. In an instant everything can be so different. What we know can become what we knew. Take the time even when you think you don't have it to give, to love others simply because they occupy this planet with us.
Blessings to you all.
The day begins like all other days. Alarms sound. People hit the snooze button for that extra few winks. Birds welcome this day with lovely songs. It is a day like all others.
Parents rouse sleeping children. Time to get ready for school. Wash faces, brush teeth, comb through sleep tangled hair. Where are the shoes? What outfit? All books in the book bag? Time for a quick breakfast before we kiss goodbye. Toast, scrambled eggs, pancakes, juice, milk. Or maybe a bar of some sort.
Everything in place for another day at school and work. An ordinary day. Parents drop off kids at school. Remind them to have a wonderful day. To be sure they do their lessons well. Eat all the food on their plate at lunch. See you in a few hours.
A day like all others. Parents and those who watch after children hurry off to begin their own day. Coffee first. Maybe coffee from the service station or the drive-thru. Cell phone charged. Thinking about the work that they will start in a few minutes.
It all started so innocently. The usual morning. Cranky kids, forgotten items, hugs and kisses. Families being families.
Another plan is in motion. One that will forever alter the lives of those in this small town. Wind is meeting wind. Clouds are forming. A different type of day is about to be born. One that will damage people, places and possessions.
And then the alarm sounds. It is the alarm that means a tornado is coming. People understand this. They have experienced this before. Terror grips their souls as they attempt to make the best decisions that will mean they and their loved ones survive. Where to go for safety? Did the school move the students to safe places? Yes, of course they did. But parents must ask that question.
This massive force of destruction has its way with this town and its people. It has a mind of its own. It works its horror and then moves on. It has no feelings. It simply is. It formed and grew into a monster. No one could stop it.
Where are the neighbors? Where are the homes and businesses? And where are the children? Those precious children who followed the instructions that hopefully would keep them from harm. They went to the safest place in the school. They covered their heads. They were afraid. Teachers calmly talked with them. Assured them that they would be ok. It was the right thing to do.
If only. If only the storm had veered a bit into fields where no homes stood. If only there had been another opportunity to brush back the hair from the face. if only there had been time to look into those eyes once again. If onlys can go on forever.
People will start over. That is what we do. In the midst of complete devastation and loss, people will stand tall. They will take care of others as well as themselves. They will offer solace to those whose loss is beyond words. It will take time--so much time.
Be kind to one another. In an instant everything can be so different. What we know can become what we knew. Take the time even when you think you don't have it to give, to love others simply because they occupy this planet with us.
Blessings to you all.
Sunday, May 19, 2013
How Important is Encouragement?
How Important is Encouragement?--
What do you think? How important is it to be encouraged? Can you remember a time when you were lifted by someone's words? Do you remember a moment when you gave encouragement to another?
Let's examine those questions. Let's begin with the importance of encouragement.
Educators work very hard. When I was teaching, it was not unusual for me to bring home an armload of work to read through. I wish I had documented all those evenings and weekends I spent bent over writings that had to be read. And only by me. My students expected and received comments on everything they turned in to be read. Even when the work was less than I wished, I felt it was my job to find something positive to write on each paper. If I forgot to do that, students would bring the paper to me and request a comment.
You see, they wanted to believe that what they produced had merit. There was a need to be validated by me as their teacher. There were certainly times when I had to look extra hard, but I knew that one comment might be the only positive one that day. How could I refuse them?
I fully understand that many educators do not agree with me on this. Doesn't matter to me. I have seen the eyes of students light up when they received something good. Repeated failure does not motivate. One day years ago there was a knock on my front door. When I opened it, there stood two of my former students. They were now in junior college. They had never been to my home. After inviting them in, we sat in the family room and visited about what they were doing now that they were out of high school. I will never forget why they decided to stop by.
They wanted to show me their grades. Their comment humbled me. They said that they wanted to share their accomplishment with me because they knew I would be pleased for them, and that I had cared about them. Bring on the tissues. Sitting in my family room were two young women who were trying to make something of their lives. And they wanted to share that with me. When they left, I sat in the room thinking about my time with them. I was reminded once more of the value of every human life.
I am not alone in this. Many educators have this experience. We know everyone has value. I always felt it was my job to help students find their value. Believe me, I could write books on this subject.
What about a time you needed encouragement? Was it long ago or yesterday?
Ever heard anyone say they were taken for granted? I understand that statement. Certainly I have felt used. Humans seem to be wired to need encouragement. We function at a much higher level when we are valued. If we believe that others don't appreciate the effort we are making or the job we are doing, we can become quite discouraged. We can talk to ourselves and try to pump ourselves up, but it isn't the same as having another person acknowledge us.
I am never totally put together. There is always one more thing I could do to finish the look. So, when someone actually tells me that I look great, I beam. Isn't that the silliest thing? Something so trivial would carry such a punch. Just that little encouragement stays with me forever. I remember the time and place. I remember the person. Yes, this is shallow. There are many other examples I could give. However, it makes the point that we need encouragement on all levels. Try giving an honest compliment to someone and watch their face. Should we not always be willing to lift another?
Courage lives in the middle of encouragement. Maybe that is the clue. Maybe it takes courage to find the good in another when our own need is great. I understand that. But, I find my greatest joy in reaching out to others. I tend to forget my own needs in the process of sharing life with them. Courage might mean I look another person in the eyes and tell them I admire their ability to create, or paint, or write, or care for others. We don't want to invade another's space so courage is needed to step toward another human in a meaningful way. Who knows. That very day maybe the day they need it they most.
It would be wonderful to be remembered as an encourager. I would love that. If I helped another reach a goal or believe in their ability to achieve their greatest dream, that would be enough for me. I will say this again--our time on this earth is so limited. We do not get do-overs. We get one shot. What if someone needs me to lift them, and I am too self-absorbed to see?
So, go forth this coming week and be that encourager to just one person. The checker at the grocery store, the teller at the bank, the co-worker who drives you insane, the husband/wife/partner who never thanks you for all you do to make their life work, the child who asks thousands of questions, the teen who thinks you are a dork--pick just one. Maybe start with the easy one which is not the teen!!:) Try giving away one tiny bit of encouragement this week. And then think about the reaction of the person receiving and your own reaction. Spend a little time contemplating how we could change the world by offering this to others.
Personally, I think you must be pretty great if you are reading this! Blessings.
What do you think? How important is it to be encouraged? Can you remember a time when you were lifted by someone's words? Do you remember a moment when you gave encouragement to another?
Let's examine those questions. Let's begin with the importance of encouragement.
Educators work very hard. When I was teaching, it was not unusual for me to bring home an armload of work to read through. I wish I had documented all those evenings and weekends I spent bent over writings that had to be read. And only by me. My students expected and received comments on everything they turned in to be read. Even when the work was less than I wished, I felt it was my job to find something positive to write on each paper. If I forgot to do that, students would bring the paper to me and request a comment.
You see, they wanted to believe that what they produced had merit. There was a need to be validated by me as their teacher. There were certainly times when I had to look extra hard, but I knew that one comment might be the only positive one that day. How could I refuse them?
I fully understand that many educators do not agree with me on this. Doesn't matter to me. I have seen the eyes of students light up when they received something good. Repeated failure does not motivate. One day years ago there was a knock on my front door. When I opened it, there stood two of my former students. They were now in junior college. They had never been to my home. After inviting them in, we sat in the family room and visited about what they were doing now that they were out of high school. I will never forget why they decided to stop by.
They wanted to show me their grades. Their comment humbled me. They said that they wanted to share their accomplishment with me because they knew I would be pleased for them, and that I had cared about them. Bring on the tissues. Sitting in my family room were two young women who were trying to make something of their lives. And they wanted to share that with me. When they left, I sat in the room thinking about my time with them. I was reminded once more of the value of every human life.
I am not alone in this. Many educators have this experience. We know everyone has value. I always felt it was my job to help students find their value. Believe me, I could write books on this subject.
What about a time you needed encouragement? Was it long ago or yesterday?
Ever heard anyone say they were taken for granted? I understand that statement. Certainly I have felt used. Humans seem to be wired to need encouragement. We function at a much higher level when we are valued. If we believe that others don't appreciate the effort we are making or the job we are doing, we can become quite discouraged. We can talk to ourselves and try to pump ourselves up, but it isn't the same as having another person acknowledge us.
I am never totally put together. There is always one more thing I could do to finish the look. So, when someone actually tells me that I look great, I beam. Isn't that the silliest thing? Something so trivial would carry such a punch. Just that little encouragement stays with me forever. I remember the time and place. I remember the person. Yes, this is shallow. There are many other examples I could give. However, it makes the point that we need encouragement on all levels. Try giving an honest compliment to someone and watch their face. Should we not always be willing to lift another?
Courage lives in the middle of encouragement. Maybe that is the clue. Maybe it takes courage to find the good in another when our own need is great. I understand that. But, I find my greatest joy in reaching out to others. I tend to forget my own needs in the process of sharing life with them. Courage might mean I look another person in the eyes and tell them I admire their ability to create, or paint, or write, or care for others. We don't want to invade another's space so courage is needed to step toward another human in a meaningful way. Who knows. That very day maybe the day they need it they most.
It would be wonderful to be remembered as an encourager. I would love that. If I helped another reach a goal or believe in their ability to achieve their greatest dream, that would be enough for me. I will say this again--our time on this earth is so limited. We do not get do-overs. We get one shot. What if someone needs me to lift them, and I am too self-absorbed to see?
So, go forth this coming week and be that encourager to just one person. The checker at the grocery store, the teller at the bank, the co-worker who drives you insane, the husband/wife/partner who never thanks you for all you do to make their life work, the child who asks thousands of questions, the teen who thinks you are a dork--pick just one. Maybe start with the easy one which is not the teen!!:) Try giving away one tiny bit of encouragement this week. And then think about the reaction of the person receiving and your own reaction. Spend a little time contemplating how we could change the world by offering this to others.
Personally, I think you must be pretty great if you are reading this! Blessings.
Friday, May 17, 2013
Moving Along with the Bathroom
Moving Along with the Bathroom--
Granite installed. Colors are perfect. Sink installed. Still no water. A waiting period of 24 hours while everything sets. Did someone forget to tell me that? Plumber said I am his first job Monday morning. I am grateful for that placement on his work list.
Seeing the vanity with its lovely top setting in the bathroom--me thinks the project will move along a bit faster than originally planned.
Step one almost done!
Enjoy the beautiful day.
Granite installed. Colors are perfect. Sink installed. Still no water. A waiting period of 24 hours while everything sets. Did someone forget to tell me that? Plumber said I am his first job Monday morning. I am grateful for that placement on his work list.
Seeing the vanity with its lovely top setting in the bathroom--me thinks the project will move along a bit faster than originally planned.
Step one almost done!
Enjoy the beautiful day.
Questions
Questions--
Even if we live to be 100, life is short.
Honestly, I never thought much about being old until I arrived at that point in life. And now I think about the years I have lived. Questions flood my mind.
Did I love people enough? Was I present when others needed me? Did I listen more and talk less? Was I caring? When others needed help, did I offer? Did I tell those I love dearly how much they mean to me? Did I say thank you often? Could others count on me to keep my word?
What if we posted these and other questions where we could read them everyday? What if we took one of the questions and made that our goal for a day or a week? What if after that week, we added another question? And so on until all the questions were assigned their own place in our lives. Concentrating on one question at a time could bring such positive energy into our lives. After we completed the original questions, would we see a change in ourselves and the way we view the world and others? Would others see a change in us?
We all have habits we can adjust. We all have attitudes that might need a little tweak. We all could use an extra dose of kindness occasionally. Life is busy. It is very easy to think more of ourselves than others. Simple things irritate us. Would keeping a question a week in front of us make a difference in how we react to this world we live in?
There is time for all of us to accept the challenge to be a kinder person. There is time for all of us to share with others how special they are. How they enrich our lives simply by occupying this planet with us. There is time to practice listening. Listening is hard work. It requires concentration. Not only on what is being shared, but also what isn't. It is a skill that can be developed. This is a gift we can give others--the gift of listening.
Yesterday I was in a line at Starbucks. All the chairs and tables were occupied. People were reading, working on computers, visiting with friends. There were the usual sounds--the expresso machine doing its thing, the blender grinding ice and the buzz of people.
"Shut up!" she yelled very loudly.
It was startling. Out of the ordinary. It caught the attention of everyone in the room.
I turned to see what had caused such an outburst. At a table very close to me sat a woman and two young teen-age girls. It was evident they were working on homework. There was an Algebra book open and paper with computations on it. As my glance took all of this in, one of the young girls jumped up from her chair and quickly marched out of the store. The woman caught my gaze. She mouthed the words, "I don't care" and then quickly said, "I do care."
What do you do in a situation like that? There is the question for the hour. A situation has presented itself. Do you smile and turn away? Do you offer yourself to a person in despair? What is the right thing to do?
I stood there for a bit--in the line with all the others looking away from the woman. And then I walked over and comforted her. She said her daughter had told her to shut-up five times while they were working on the math assignment. She had had enough. I asked the age of her daughter. Thirteen. Well, there is most of the answer to the situation. Those junior high years are so difficult. Parents live with complete strangers all the time trying to figure them out. I didn't offer advice. She is a college professor. She travels all over the world. Yet this person she birthed has changed so much she doesn't recognize her. She can communicate with those in her classes and with people she meets in her travels. But this person sitting across from her in Starbucks is unrecognizable.
I wanted to offer some tips for living with junior high age people. That wasn't the time or place. We shared a few moments. I can still see the frustration and hurt on her face.
Her daughter returned to the room. Quite embarrassed, I am sure. I spoke to her. Asked her if she was ok. She said she was. Then I returned to my place in line. A young man walked past me with his drink. He whispered that what I had done was very kind. Then he asked if I were a teacher. I told him yes, but that I was retired. He said he thought I might be. He is a teacher, too. We shared just a few seconds, but those few seconds make me think about many things.
In fact, that exchange with him brings me back to the questions I wrote at the beginning of this blog.
You see, it is all about choice. We can choose to know. To go beyond seeing. Everyone in that room saw. You couldn't help but see. Knowing means we sense that we can help in a small way. Knowing means we take the chance. We step out of that zone that surrounds us. We reach out to another human. Some would say there is too much risk involved in walking into a situation uninvited. Yes, there certainly is risk. But for those of us who know, risk is not a word we ever use. We go where the need is. I don't know how to explain "know." It just is.
So, my question for you is do you have a question for your week? I have one for mine. If you are having a difficult time selecting one question, how about this one. Do I smile at others? That is an easy one to remember yet can be quite difficult to do.
Have I told you how much I appreciate that you are reading these words? It is my most sincere desire that what I write has meaning for you. Even the silly ones.
Be safe out there as you navigate your world. Our time is limited. Make it count.
Peace and Blessings!
Even if we live to be 100, life is short.
Honestly, I never thought much about being old until I arrived at that point in life. And now I think about the years I have lived. Questions flood my mind.
Did I love people enough? Was I present when others needed me? Did I listen more and talk less? Was I caring? When others needed help, did I offer? Did I tell those I love dearly how much they mean to me? Did I say thank you often? Could others count on me to keep my word?
What if we posted these and other questions where we could read them everyday? What if we took one of the questions and made that our goal for a day or a week? What if after that week, we added another question? And so on until all the questions were assigned their own place in our lives. Concentrating on one question at a time could bring such positive energy into our lives. After we completed the original questions, would we see a change in ourselves and the way we view the world and others? Would others see a change in us?
We all have habits we can adjust. We all have attitudes that might need a little tweak. We all could use an extra dose of kindness occasionally. Life is busy. It is very easy to think more of ourselves than others. Simple things irritate us. Would keeping a question a week in front of us make a difference in how we react to this world we live in?
There is time for all of us to accept the challenge to be a kinder person. There is time for all of us to share with others how special they are. How they enrich our lives simply by occupying this planet with us. There is time to practice listening. Listening is hard work. It requires concentration. Not only on what is being shared, but also what isn't. It is a skill that can be developed. This is a gift we can give others--the gift of listening.
Yesterday I was in a line at Starbucks. All the chairs and tables were occupied. People were reading, working on computers, visiting with friends. There were the usual sounds--the expresso machine doing its thing, the blender grinding ice and the buzz of people.
"Shut up!" she yelled very loudly.
It was startling. Out of the ordinary. It caught the attention of everyone in the room.
I turned to see what had caused such an outburst. At a table very close to me sat a woman and two young teen-age girls. It was evident they were working on homework. There was an Algebra book open and paper with computations on it. As my glance took all of this in, one of the young girls jumped up from her chair and quickly marched out of the store. The woman caught my gaze. She mouthed the words, "I don't care" and then quickly said, "I do care."
What do you do in a situation like that? There is the question for the hour. A situation has presented itself. Do you smile and turn away? Do you offer yourself to a person in despair? What is the right thing to do?
I stood there for a bit--in the line with all the others looking away from the woman. And then I walked over and comforted her. She said her daughter had told her to shut-up five times while they were working on the math assignment. She had had enough. I asked the age of her daughter. Thirteen. Well, there is most of the answer to the situation. Those junior high years are so difficult. Parents live with complete strangers all the time trying to figure them out. I didn't offer advice. She is a college professor. She travels all over the world. Yet this person she birthed has changed so much she doesn't recognize her. She can communicate with those in her classes and with people she meets in her travels. But this person sitting across from her in Starbucks is unrecognizable.
I wanted to offer some tips for living with junior high age people. That wasn't the time or place. We shared a few moments. I can still see the frustration and hurt on her face.
Her daughter returned to the room. Quite embarrassed, I am sure. I spoke to her. Asked her if she was ok. She said she was. Then I returned to my place in line. A young man walked past me with his drink. He whispered that what I had done was very kind. Then he asked if I were a teacher. I told him yes, but that I was retired. He said he thought I might be. He is a teacher, too. We shared just a few seconds, but those few seconds make me think about many things.
In fact, that exchange with him brings me back to the questions I wrote at the beginning of this blog.
You see, it is all about choice. We can choose to know. To go beyond seeing. Everyone in that room saw. You couldn't help but see. Knowing means we sense that we can help in a small way. Knowing means we take the chance. We step out of that zone that surrounds us. We reach out to another human. Some would say there is too much risk involved in walking into a situation uninvited. Yes, there certainly is risk. But for those of us who know, risk is not a word we ever use. We go where the need is. I don't know how to explain "know." It just is.
So, my question for you is do you have a question for your week? I have one for mine. If you are having a difficult time selecting one question, how about this one. Do I smile at others? That is an easy one to remember yet can be quite difficult to do.
Have I told you how much I appreciate that you are reading these words? It is my most sincere desire that what I write has meaning for you. Even the silly ones.
Be safe out there as you navigate your world. Our time is limited. Make it count.
Peace and Blessings!
Thursday, May 16, 2013
Journey of the Bathroom
Journey of the Bathroom--
Twenty plus years ago we redid our bathroom. The original bathroom was small and very dark. But it functioned. That was the important part when we purchased our home. Remodeling it gave it such a fresh look.
Now, it looks like some of the clothes that hang in my closet. Out of date and worn.
It is time to update it again. And not a moment too soon. There is nothing in it except the toilet that will be salvaged. Tearing it out is the simple part. Making the decisions from all available choices is the daunting task. I have always been able to make those decisions quickly. However, this is proving to be more than I had expected.
We decided to do it in stages. The first stage would be the vanity and all its trimmings which includes the lights and the mirror. Taking the large mirror down was a bit of a challenge, but it did come down. It is resting on the side deck. That is as far as we could carry it!
Next the vanity was removed. The new one was put in place minus the top. We made a selection at the store and were told we would need to make a trip to Chicago to see it. If there was a problem with the top, we could make a different selection while we were there. Everyone would be notified about the change before we left. So, off we went to Chicago.
Oh my. Whoever knew that granite came in so many colors. It was really fun to walk through the huge warehouse and see all the choices. We were told where our slab was located and happily went in search of that row. Well, when we saw it, we were astonished. It looked nothing like the sample in the store. There was no resemblance at all. This slab would not do. Neither of us liked it.
We were told to continue looking and to contact the helper once we made a selection. We could have been in there for days. Eventually we settled on a slab we both liked, told the person who made the changes and left for home. The slab would be transferred to a very small town to be cut.
Once it arrived, we would be able to drive the one hundred miles one-way to made the decision about where to cut the slab for the vanity top. We received the call. Since we have been without a bathroom sink for a month, we were excited to make the trip. We were that much closer to having that part of the bathroom functional again.
At the plant we were given safety glasses and led into the huge area where men were cutting granite and other types of stone. Slabs were everywhere. We were led to our piece and were quite surprised to see a piece that we had never seen before. When we made the selection in Chicago, I took several pictures with my cell phone. Now it was time to get those pictures. The man helping us was so apologetic. He retrieved the paper work, and there it was. The new choice. Somewhere along the lines of communication, there had been a breakdown. What to do?
He said he had a piece he thought I might like and would have it brought over. Nope. It didn't work at all. The next step was to call Chicago and see if the piece we selected still had our name on it. He would call me the next day with the news. He said we could drive back to his plant, or we could do this over the internet. I opted for the latter. Driving to Chicago is two hours one way. Driving to his plant takes almost that long. On the way home we talked about how with all this modern communication, mistakes are still made.
The next day he called and asked me if I had the sink that would be installed into the vanity. Yes, it had been delivered two days before. I had not opened the box. He needed information about it so they could cut the proper hole in the granite. I took a knife and opened the box. It was broken into three pieces. Well. Now what to do?
I called the store and told the bath design person about the broken vanity. She said to take pictures and send them. She would try to have another sink delivered--unbroken--before the installation day(which was only seven days away!) I listened to her and then made the decision to load the sink and return it. Who was to know if the second sink would arrive in one piece? So, I returned it and selected a simple bowl. She called the granite person with the dimensions.
The next day the correct slab arrived at the cutter. He emailed pictures. It is difficult to decide where to have the granite cut when the pattern is more fluid. We will see it for the first time when it is installed tomorrow.
Next, we will remove the whirlpool tub. It has been wonderful. I have spent many hours in it over the years. But it is time for it to go. Once it is out, a new window will be installed followed by a wall for the shower plumbing. Then the tile. After that the old shower will be removed and new cabinets will grace that space. Then all the tile work behind the vanity. Lights selected. Paint and new flooring.
Maybe we will be finished by fall!!:) We decided to do it in stages so we can see each step and make changes on a small scale instead of having it all done and wishing we had made different selections. It will be fun to watch it evolve into something functional and pretty.
Tomorrow is the big day. The top is put into place, the faucets are installed and the plumbing attached. Is that the correct way to say that?
Stage two is just around the corner!
Happy day to you all.
Twenty plus years ago we redid our bathroom. The original bathroom was small and very dark. But it functioned. That was the important part when we purchased our home. Remodeling it gave it such a fresh look.
Now, it looks like some of the clothes that hang in my closet. Out of date and worn.
It is time to update it again. And not a moment too soon. There is nothing in it except the toilet that will be salvaged. Tearing it out is the simple part. Making the decisions from all available choices is the daunting task. I have always been able to make those decisions quickly. However, this is proving to be more than I had expected.
We decided to do it in stages. The first stage would be the vanity and all its trimmings which includes the lights and the mirror. Taking the large mirror down was a bit of a challenge, but it did come down. It is resting on the side deck. That is as far as we could carry it!
Next the vanity was removed. The new one was put in place minus the top. We made a selection at the store and were told we would need to make a trip to Chicago to see it. If there was a problem with the top, we could make a different selection while we were there. Everyone would be notified about the change before we left. So, off we went to Chicago.
Oh my. Whoever knew that granite came in so many colors. It was really fun to walk through the huge warehouse and see all the choices. We were told where our slab was located and happily went in search of that row. Well, when we saw it, we were astonished. It looked nothing like the sample in the store. There was no resemblance at all. This slab would not do. Neither of us liked it.
We were told to continue looking and to contact the helper once we made a selection. We could have been in there for days. Eventually we settled on a slab we both liked, told the person who made the changes and left for home. The slab would be transferred to a very small town to be cut.
Once it arrived, we would be able to drive the one hundred miles one-way to made the decision about where to cut the slab for the vanity top. We received the call. Since we have been without a bathroom sink for a month, we were excited to make the trip. We were that much closer to having that part of the bathroom functional again.
At the plant we were given safety glasses and led into the huge area where men were cutting granite and other types of stone. Slabs were everywhere. We were led to our piece and were quite surprised to see a piece that we had never seen before. When we made the selection in Chicago, I took several pictures with my cell phone. Now it was time to get those pictures. The man helping us was so apologetic. He retrieved the paper work, and there it was. The new choice. Somewhere along the lines of communication, there had been a breakdown. What to do?
He said he had a piece he thought I might like and would have it brought over. Nope. It didn't work at all. The next step was to call Chicago and see if the piece we selected still had our name on it. He would call me the next day with the news. He said we could drive back to his plant, or we could do this over the internet. I opted for the latter. Driving to Chicago is two hours one way. Driving to his plant takes almost that long. On the way home we talked about how with all this modern communication, mistakes are still made.
The next day he called and asked me if I had the sink that would be installed into the vanity. Yes, it had been delivered two days before. I had not opened the box. He needed information about it so they could cut the proper hole in the granite. I took a knife and opened the box. It was broken into three pieces. Well. Now what to do?
I called the store and told the bath design person about the broken vanity. She said to take pictures and send them. She would try to have another sink delivered--unbroken--before the installation day(which was only seven days away!) I listened to her and then made the decision to load the sink and return it. Who was to know if the second sink would arrive in one piece? So, I returned it and selected a simple bowl. She called the granite person with the dimensions.
The next day the correct slab arrived at the cutter. He emailed pictures. It is difficult to decide where to have the granite cut when the pattern is more fluid. We will see it for the first time when it is installed tomorrow.
Next, we will remove the whirlpool tub. It has been wonderful. I have spent many hours in it over the years. But it is time for it to go. Once it is out, a new window will be installed followed by a wall for the shower plumbing. Then the tile. After that the old shower will be removed and new cabinets will grace that space. Then all the tile work behind the vanity. Lights selected. Paint and new flooring.
Maybe we will be finished by fall!!:) We decided to do it in stages so we can see each step and make changes on a small scale instead of having it all done and wishing we had made different selections. It will be fun to watch it evolve into something functional and pretty.
Tomorrow is the big day. The top is put into place, the faucets are installed and the plumbing attached. Is that the correct way to say that?
Stage two is just around the corner!
Happy day to you all.
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
More About Spring in the Country
More About Spring in the Country--
This week as we were coming around the corner of the house, we saw a ground squirrel scampering away with a tiny bunny in its mouth. My husband ran after it in an attempt to save the bunny. Too late. When our cat was alive, she kept the ground squirrel population to a reasonable number. She died at the age of 25 last year. We are now over-run with them. A challenge for us.
We have a deck that extends around most of our house. There is a vine that grows up and over one of the set of steps into the yard. A Robin built a nest on the railing. In full sight. We are trying to remember not to use those steps as she scolds us quite loudly when we forget. Aren't Robin eggs the most beautiful color of blue?
My husband had a stand-off with a opossum this week. They met at the garden. Neither would give ground to the other. Opossums have a vicious hiss. After quite a few minutes of staring one another down, the opossum gave up and headed into the woods. Not my favorite animal.
Our one Jack-in-the-Pulpit is huge. I was hoping it would send shoots so that others would appear. Not going to happen. I need to read about this plant. Just love it. Would like to have many of them. Maybe they are so special because they are difficult to locate.
A very large tree that helps shade one of my hosta gardens is quite dead. Not a single speck of green on it anywhere. It is way too large for my husband to cut by himself. I was thinking about what to plant in its place. Spring color would be lovely. Think we will plant two flowering trees. Now to locate someone to remove it. I feel a little sad when one of our trees dies. We have enjoyed the lovely shade it has so graciously given for many years. I will miss it, but life happens.
Several of our rose bushes were pruned by deer. They must prefer one of the bushes more than the others because one in a cluster of three is pruned almost to the ground. The other two were untouched. Go figure. I think that part of my garden will be a little lopsided this summer. I have threatened to put up signs in our yard with arrows painted on them pointing West. My hope is that the deer will read them and hurry off to another garden to spread their joy. Do you think deer can read signs? I was afraid you would say that!
No snakes yet. However, they will appear now that the weather is warm. I am not fond of snakes. You can tell me all the benefits of them sharing the planet with us, but I will probably turn a deaf ear. Anything that moves quietly and gives no warning until you almost touch them, is frightful. Last year I bent down to pick up a stick--it moved. Not good. Why couldn't they come equipped with a bell?
A few days ago I decided we needed to line the woods with plants. We gave a home to 36. Well, they looked sad in those small containers at the nursery. Try telling that to my husband. He is a gentle soul. I dug. He planted. He did comment that it looks much nicer. The next sentence out of his mouth sounded something like--no more plants. He knows those are hollow words. I think he feels he needs to say them. OK, I respond back to him. Both of us know the truth.
The hummingbirds are keeping us busy filling their feeders. In the South hummers are everywhere. It is a real treat to have them here. I am sure the same ones return every summer. Years ago one of my students visited relatives in Washington. Imagine my delight when she brought back a hummingbird nest for me. I have had it for many years. It is secure in a box where no one can touch it. It is so tiny and delicate. Very soft. It sets in the fork of a small branch. It is a prized possession. That was way before it was against the law to have one. Shhhh--it's a secret. I should probably donate it to a zoo so others can see what a nest is like. Is that against the law, too?
Changes are happening in the landscape. Summer is pushing spring out of the way. Summer has a way of doing that before I am ready. But, that is life on this wonderful planet we call home.
Talk again soon!
This week as we were coming around the corner of the house, we saw a ground squirrel scampering away with a tiny bunny in its mouth. My husband ran after it in an attempt to save the bunny. Too late. When our cat was alive, she kept the ground squirrel population to a reasonable number. She died at the age of 25 last year. We are now over-run with them. A challenge for us.
We have a deck that extends around most of our house. There is a vine that grows up and over one of the set of steps into the yard. A Robin built a nest on the railing. In full sight. We are trying to remember not to use those steps as she scolds us quite loudly when we forget. Aren't Robin eggs the most beautiful color of blue?
My husband had a stand-off with a opossum this week. They met at the garden. Neither would give ground to the other. Opossums have a vicious hiss. After quite a few minutes of staring one another down, the opossum gave up and headed into the woods. Not my favorite animal.
Our one Jack-in-the-Pulpit is huge. I was hoping it would send shoots so that others would appear. Not going to happen. I need to read about this plant. Just love it. Would like to have many of them. Maybe they are so special because they are difficult to locate.
A very large tree that helps shade one of my hosta gardens is quite dead. Not a single speck of green on it anywhere. It is way too large for my husband to cut by himself. I was thinking about what to plant in its place. Spring color would be lovely. Think we will plant two flowering trees. Now to locate someone to remove it. I feel a little sad when one of our trees dies. We have enjoyed the lovely shade it has so graciously given for many years. I will miss it, but life happens.
Several of our rose bushes were pruned by deer. They must prefer one of the bushes more than the others because one in a cluster of three is pruned almost to the ground. The other two were untouched. Go figure. I think that part of my garden will be a little lopsided this summer. I have threatened to put up signs in our yard with arrows painted on them pointing West. My hope is that the deer will read them and hurry off to another garden to spread their joy. Do you think deer can read signs? I was afraid you would say that!
No snakes yet. However, they will appear now that the weather is warm. I am not fond of snakes. You can tell me all the benefits of them sharing the planet with us, but I will probably turn a deaf ear. Anything that moves quietly and gives no warning until you almost touch them, is frightful. Last year I bent down to pick up a stick--it moved. Not good. Why couldn't they come equipped with a bell?
A few days ago I decided we needed to line the woods with plants. We gave a home to 36. Well, they looked sad in those small containers at the nursery. Try telling that to my husband. He is a gentle soul. I dug. He planted. He did comment that it looks much nicer. The next sentence out of his mouth sounded something like--no more plants. He knows those are hollow words. I think he feels he needs to say them. OK, I respond back to him. Both of us know the truth.
The hummingbirds are keeping us busy filling their feeders. In the South hummers are everywhere. It is a real treat to have them here. I am sure the same ones return every summer. Years ago one of my students visited relatives in Washington. Imagine my delight when she brought back a hummingbird nest for me. I have had it for many years. It is secure in a box where no one can touch it. It is so tiny and delicate. Very soft. It sets in the fork of a small branch. It is a prized possession. That was way before it was against the law to have one. Shhhh--it's a secret. I should probably donate it to a zoo so others can see what a nest is like. Is that against the law, too?
Changes are happening in the landscape. Summer is pushing spring out of the way. Summer has a way of doing that before I am ready. But, that is life on this wonderful planet we call home.
Talk again soon!
Friday, May 10, 2013
The Blog
The Blog--
I am enjoying sharing my thoughts with those of you who have found my blog. There is so much to write about.
If you read my blogs, would you consider letting me know what you think? Is there one that speaks to you? One that made you chuckle? One that made you think about your own life experiences?
Your thoughts help me as I make the decision about the next blog. Thank you for taking a few minutes to communicate with me! I sincerely appreciate it. And if you could, would you share my blog with others? That would be great!
Looking forward to hearing from you.
I am enjoying sharing my thoughts with those of you who have found my blog. There is so much to write about.
If you read my blogs, would you consider letting me know what you think? Is there one that speaks to you? One that made you chuckle? One that made you think about your own life experiences?
Your thoughts help me as I make the decision about the next blog. Thank you for taking a few minutes to communicate with me! I sincerely appreciate it. And if you could, would you share my blog with others? That would be great!
Looking forward to hearing from you.
The Long Road Trip
The Long Road Trip--
Car time is an important part of my life. It is essential that I have a certain amount of car time everyday to maintain a healthy attitude. My husband often says I should have been a semi driver. That might be fun if I could take the semi where I wanted to go. Love a road trip. Love to see new things and meet new people.
We usually have a destination in mind when we decide to take a road trip. That was the case last month. We were so excited about that trip. We were going to lease a cottage on the Oregon coast for a year.
We decided to buy a van and take many things we would need for the cottage with us. We loaded it. Dishes, linens, art work, silverware, pots/pans, kitchen things, a table, lamps. All of that and more was carefully packed into the van. The van would remain at the cottage. We had reservations to fly back to our home.
On the appointed day we were off. It is quite a distance from the Midwest to the Pacific Coast. Twenty-two hundred miles, I think. We quickly became accustomed to driving around 80 mph. So, the miles sailed by. No storms to contend with on the trip. No vehicle challenges. It was all going so well.
We arrived at the Oregon Coast and located the cottage. Ok--now I need to tell you that we had only seen the cottage through pictures. I had visited with the owner many times via email and phone. We were relying on honesty. Usually that approach works.
Our first glimpse of the cottage left us a bit stunned. But we are upbeat, positive people so we decided that after a night's rest in a motel on the coast, things would look better. They didn't! The next morning we drove to the cottage to begin unpacking the van.
It is interesting how each of us tried to convince ourselves that it would be ok. We didn't share our thoughts at that moment. We were both in denial, I think. So, we made trips to furniture stores and purchased a sofa, lamps, end tables, mattress, table and stools for the kitchen. Oh--and a tv that would be hooked up that Friday. We did all of this on Monday.
Then my husband began cleaning what was supposed to be clean when we arrived. That took more than half a day. Monday came and went. Tuesday morning we were up early. There were cabinets to clean and dishes to put away. Everything from the van had to find a place to live. Our own personal thoughts were still unshared.
A few things were a bother. The kitchen floor slanted so much we would need to support the legs on one side to keep it level. The living room floor was like walking into a ditch. The room shook when we walked across it. It seemed like it might cave in at any minute. And there was the issue of the bathroom sink. It had rust in the bowl and around the faucets. I was later told it was an antique. No excuse for rust.
Still, we kept a positive attitude. Surely we could use this cottage for a year and enjoy the coast.
Tuesday afternoon we had a little talk. That talk resulted in both of us being honest about our feelings. We could not call this cottage our home away from home. So, we decided to contact the owner and see what we could do.
Long story short, we drove away on Wednesday and began the trip back across country. We had arrived Sunday. We were back on the road Wednesday. We gave away many items, packed the sofa, end tables, lamps, table/stools in the van along with a few other items and headed back across country. We thought we might go to Yellowstone, but it was too early for that.
We arrived back in the Midwest Sunday. We had been gone nine days and had driven about 5,000 miles.
I realize many people think we are nuts. And perhaps they are right. However, we don't feel that way. We had much time to visit and dream about having a place on the coast. It didn't work out as we had planned, but it was fun just the same. We met some wonderful people on that trip. And I certainly got my car time in!:)
My son got a chuckle about our trip. His one comment was, "Mom, that is a long way to go for a sofa!" I agree. However, when someone comments on how lovely the sofa is, I have a great story to tell about how it came to live in our house. The end tables and lamps look lovely with it.
Our attitude is this--we had a dream. We did everything we could to see it come true. This time it didn't. There will be another time. We will make a plan and drive away. Who knows what the outcome will be. It is the journey that tells us who we are. Sometimes we reach an unplanned destination. When that happens, we look for a Starbucks and make a new plan.
Anyone interested in a white van? Give me a call!:)
Happy travels.
Car time is an important part of my life. It is essential that I have a certain amount of car time everyday to maintain a healthy attitude. My husband often says I should have been a semi driver. That might be fun if I could take the semi where I wanted to go. Love a road trip. Love to see new things and meet new people.
We usually have a destination in mind when we decide to take a road trip. That was the case last month. We were so excited about that trip. We were going to lease a cottage on the Oregon coast for a year.
We decided to buy a van and take many things we would need for the cottage with us. We loaded it. Dishes, linens, art work, silverware, pots/pans, kitchen things, a table, lamps. All of that and more was carefully packed into the van. The van would remain at the cottage. We had reservations to fly back to our home.
On the appointed day we were off. It is quite a distance from the Midwest to the Pacific Coast. Twenty-two hundred miles, I think. We quickly became accustomed to driving around 80 mph. So, the miles sailed by. No storms to contend with on the trip. No vehicle challenges. It was all going so well.
We arrived at the Oregon Coast and located the cottage. Ok--now I need to tell you that we had only seen the cottage through pictures. I had visited with the owner many times via email and phone. We were relying on honesty. Usually that approach works.
Our first glimpse of the cottage left us a bit stunned. But we are upbeat, positive people so we decided that after a night's rest in a motel on the coast, things would look better. They didn't! The next morning we drove to the cottage to begin unpacking the van.
It is interesting how each of us tried to convince ourselves that it would be ok. We didn't share our thoughts at that moment. We were both in denial, I think. So, we made trips to furniture stores and purchased a sofa, lamps, end tables, mattress, table and stools for the kitchen. Oh--and a tv that would be hooked up that Friday. We did all of this on Monday.
Then my husband began cleaning what was supposed to be clean when we arrived. That took more than half a day. Monday came and went. Tuesday morning we were up early. There were cabinets to clean and dishes to put away. Everything from the van had to find a place to live. Our own personal thoughts were still unshared.
A few things were a bother. The kitchen floor slanted so much we would need to support the legs on one side to keep it level. The living room floor was like walking into a ditch. The room shook when we walked across it. It seemed like it might cave in at any minute. And there was the issue of the bathroom sink. It had rust in the bowl and around the faucets. I was later told it was an antique. No excuse for rust.
Still, we kept a positive attitude. Surely we could use this cottage for a year and enjoy the coast.
Tuesday afternoon we had a little talk. That talk resulted in both of us being honest about our feelings. We could not call this cottage our home away from home. So, we decided to contact the owner and see what we could do.
Long story short, we drove away on Wednesday and began the trip back across country. We had arrived Sunday. We were back on the road Wednesday. We gave away many items, packed the sofa, end tables, lamps, table/stools in the van along with a few other items and headed back across country. We thought we might go to Yellowstone, but it was too early for that.
We arrived back in the Midwest Sunday. We had been gone nine days and had driven about 5,000 miles.
I realize many people think we are nuts. And perhaps they are right. However, we don't feel that way. We had much time to visit and dream about having a place on the coast. It didn't work out as we had planned, but it was fun just the same. We met some wonderful people on that trip. And I certainly got my car time in!:)
My son got a chuckle about our trip. His one comment was, "Mom, that is a long way to go for a sofa!" I agree. However, when someone comments on how lovely the sofa is, I have a great story to tell about how it came to live in our house. The end tables and lamps look lovely with it.
Our attitude is this--we had a dream. We did everything we could to see it come true. This time it didn't. There will be another time. We will make a plan and drive away. Who knows what the outcome will be. It is the journey that tells us who we are. Sometimes we reach an unplanned destination. When that happens, we look for a Starbucks and make a new plan.
Anyone interested in a white van? Give me a call!:)
Happy travels.
Thursday, May 9, 2013
My Friend Coming for Lunch
My Friend Coming for Lunch--
I enjoy being alone. It gives the opportunity to think and create. It allows time to just be in a world that tells us just being might not be enough. I am aware of my own thoughts when I take time to be alone. I hear myself better.
But, it is such fun to have a friend come for lunch! Enough of the quiet--let's have some laughs over a meal. Let's talk about the moments of our lives. The daily living things. What is happening with our kids, our spouses, our careers, our yards, our churches. And what is happening with us.
We tend to talk around ourselves, don't we? It is difficult to let the facade down and trust another person with the deep challenges. It is much easier to ask questions and listen. Must less revealing than to let another person know how troubled we are. Or how stressed we are. We don't wish to share that we have been hurt by life or people. That we are not all we seem to be.
Really? Exactly who are we fooling? Friends can take one look in our faces and see the real us. That is a wonderful thing. Friends who honestly care and know us want to share our lives--the good and the not so good. They are not frightened off by our failings. They love us through them.
Maybe we need to learn to trust another person with ourselves. Oh--that is so difficult. We fear rejection when we allow ourselves to share our true thoughts with another person. I know this. It has happened to me. From that experience I learned a most valuable lesson--rather I was reminded of the lesson I already knew. Be wise about the person/people you trust with your thoughts and beliefs.
So, my friend is coming for lunch. She and I talk about everything. We do not put up any walls. We don't always agree--isn't that great? We challenge one another to think in new ways. We sometimes change our minds about something we have held as truth for a long time. This is a growing relationship. We don't simply parrot back to one another what we want to hear. We share from a deep place that is sometimes quite different. She is a joy.
We will talk about the weather, our yards, our kids. We will laugh about some of the goofy things we have done since we last had lunch that are silly and fun. We will hug when we see one another. We will make a date to do this again.
And my heart will rejoice knowing that friendship is such a sweet thing!
Love, peace and lemonade!
(I borrowed this from a friend!)
I enjoy being alone. It gives the opportunity to think and create. It allows time to just be in a world that tells us just being might not be enough. I am aware of my own thoughts when I take time to be alone. I hear myself better.
But, it is such fun to have a friend come for lunch! Enough of the quiet--let's have some laughs over a meal. Let's talk about the moments of our lives. The daily living things. What is happening with our kids, our spouses, our careers, our yards, our churches. And what is happening with us.
We tend to talk around ourselves, don't we? It is difficult to let the facade down and trust another person with the deep challenges. It is much easier to ask questions and listen. Must less revealing than to let another person know how troubled we are. Or how stressed we are. We don't wish to share that we have been hurt by life or people. That we are not all we seem to be.
Really? Exactly who are we fooling? Friends can take one look in our faces and see the real us. That is a wonderful thing. Friends who honestly care and know us want to share our lives--the good and the not so good. They are not frightened off by our failings. They love us through them.
Maybe we need to learn to trust another person with ourselves. Oh--that is so difficult. We fear rejection when we allow ourselves to share our true thoughts with another person. I know this. It has happened to me. From that experience I learned a most valuable lesson--rather I was reminded of the lesson I already knew. Be wise about the person/people you trust with your thoughts and beliefs.
So, my friend is coming for lunch. She and I talk about everything. We do not put up any walls. We don't always agree--isn't that great? We challenge one another to think in new ways. We sometimes change our minds about something we have held as truth for a long time. This is a growing relationship. We don't simply parrot back to one another what we want to hear. We share from a deep place that is sometimes quite different. She is a joy.
We will talk about the weather, our yards, our kids. We will laugh about some of the goofy things we have done since we last had lunch that are silly and fun. We will hug when we see one another. We will make a date to do this again.
And my heart will rejoice knowing that friendship is such a sweet thing!
Love, peace and lemonade!
(I borrowed this from a friend!)
Monday, May 6, 2013
The Daily Walk
The Daily Walk--
Now that spring is in the process of arriving, life is happening in new ways around our place.
As soon as I can open my eyes and get myself in an upright position, I head outside for the walk-around. What is a walk-around? It is the morning walk around our property to see what has happened since I did the same walk the day before. It is a way to gauge the effect spring is having on plants and flowers in our gardens. Here is today's report.
All 500+ hosta are singing the praises of warm weather and rain. Many are approaching full growth while others are like me in the early morning--stretching a bit at a time. They will arrive at their full growth when they want to. I like that. Not all of them springing out of the ground to the same medley. When they first appeared as spears just above the dirt, I wondered how they knew it was time. I was wearing a coat, long pants and socks. Definitely not spring attire. But there they were--convinced it was their time to shine. It won't be long until the gardens are full to overflowing with beautiful leaves in a multitude of colors and textures. Welcome, hosta.
At the edge of one garden grew a large hydrangea bush. No blooms for years. This spring we dug it and transplanted it. Now, it is not easy to dig a hydrangea. The root system goes to the next state, I am sure. My thought is maybe it is in the wrong place? You think?? When we finally got it out of the ground, it broke into two very large pieces. We transplanted it to a new location and new foliage is everywhere. Very exciting to see what happens as it reaches its full growth. Maybe there will be blossoms. That would be such a treat.
Winter is hard here in Illinois. On my walk-around this morning I noticed holes in the beds. That simply cannot be. A trip to the nursery is on my schedule. I will find low growing shrubs that will fill in those areas where ground cover is not covering anything. Slowly I am moving from flowers to shrubs. Shrubs seem to last much longer than those delicate early flowering plants. I will miss their color, but it will be easier on my pocketbook.
Just outside my front door are two very large winter arrangements in tall red containers. My front door is red so it goes together well. However, the dead evergreen limbs that once were deep green are now dirt brown. Not pretty at all. I was ready to throw them all away and replace with large ferns for summer when I noticed a bird had built her nest in the one on the right side of the door. There went that idea. Everyone else has lovely spring or summer arrangements on their steps or door. I have dead winter. The baby birds have now hatched and are hungry all the time. Once they make their way into the world, I will make the change from winter to spring at my door. Why couldn't she have built that nest in a less busy spot? I will never understand the mind of birds!
About a foot from the bird nest was a pile of leaves in my plant bed. Reaching over to clean the bed, I realized that it was a rabbit's nest. Right by the door. I patted her fur into place and left them to grow large enough to eat my plants. Or maybe I will take them on a little trip to a forest where they can nibble away at all things protected! It is like a zoo at this place.
Last week there were five quite large deer eating away. Since they were on the edge of the yard, I didn't run at them like a mad woman. I think they might have been grazing on the bluebells. There are thousands of bluebells on this place. We can spare a few.
We have a breezeway on the front of our house. A bird has built a nest that looks like a column at the top of a window in that area of the house. Mud is splattered on that window. It looks like it has been dive bombed. And speaking of dive bombing, once Mother Robin has her nest built and the children are awake begging for food, she will dive bomb us if we walk anywhere near her nest. Sometimes I feel like we are captives all year--by winter weather and then by nature that lives with us!
Ferns are gracing the beds. They add a touch of lace to the broad leaves. A lovely contrast. Shooting Stars, Trillium, Blood Root, Spring Beauty, Trout Lily, Lily of the Valley and many other early wildflowers are showing themselves. Soon others will replace them. It is an absolute joy to see them emerge. When the weather warms just a bit more, Queen Ann's Lace will appear. I love that plant. Not in my plant beds but along the road side. I can't remember the weed that grows with Queen Ann's Lace--it has a small blue flower and grows alongside the paved road. I know tea can be made by boiling its root. Anyway, I love that plant. It needs no care whatsoever.
It is time to do some foundation planting. Have some shrubs to plant later today when I return from my book study. All beds need to be edged. Weeds dug out. The ritual of spring in the garden is here. Last year we were on a garden walk. It was the hottest day of the year! Yet, people came. We have much shade so they could be out of the blazing sun. It was a joy to share our gardens with them. I think that might be the only time we do that. I tend to overlook a few weeds and such in my gardens. However, if others will come to see them, I examine those same beds in a completely different light. So, once was enough.
Many of the flowering trees are wearing their spring color. Just beautiful. Pinks, reds, white, purple--all blossoming together. Every spring when they bloom, I want to rush to the nursery and buy ten more trees that will bloom next spring. Then I realize there is no space for another tree. If you are reading this, stop and go outside. Look. Examine. Smell. Touch. The days for those trees to shine are numbered. Don't miss their glory. You really are not so busy that you can't find five minutes to fill your soul with their gift.
Years ago I planted Money Plant. It is an old plant. Very difficult to locate in nurseries. I have it in abundance. The seeds are carried by wind, shoes and birds. So, it appears in the most unlikely places. The purple blossoms are gorgeous right now in the garden. Soon they will disappear and the plant will produce "money." I love that plant. Never water it. Just let it grow.
Gardens are so personal. Everyone has an opinion about how a garden should look. Gardens give people a chance to create. Mine change all the time. And I think those changes make it better. Gardeners know that just because a plant is in the ground doesn't mean it is in the best place. So, we move things. Many times. Gardens evolve just as the people who tend them evolve. It is a partnership.
And now I am going to make the list of plants and shrubs to be purchased at the nursery today. It is going to be a busy afternoon of planting and cleaning. Tomorrow when I do the walk-around, I will know that those holes are filled and be glad!
So nice to visit with you on this lovely spring morning. Have a wonderful day.
Now that spring is in the process of arriving, life is happening in new ways around our place.
As soon as I can open my eyes and get myself in an upright position, I head outside for the walk-around. What is a walk-around? It is the morning walk around our property to see what has happened since I did the same walk the day before. It is a way to gauge the effect spring is having on plants and flowers in our gardens. Here is today's report.
All 500+ hosta are singing the praises of warm weather and rain. Many are approaching full growth while others are like me in the early morning--stretching a bit at a time. They will arrive at their full growth when they want to. I like that. Not all of them springing out of the ground to the same medley. When they first appeared as spears just above the dirt, I wondered how they knew it was time. I was wearing a coat, long pants and socks. Definitely not spring attire. But there they were--convinced it was their time to shine. It won't be long until the gardens are full to overflowing with beautiful leaves in a multitude of colors and textures. Welcome, hosta.
At the edge of one garden grew a large hydrangea bush. No blooms for years. This spring we dug it and transplanted it. Now, it is not easy to dig a hydrangea. The root system goes to the next state, I am sure. My thought is maybe it is in the wrong place? You think?? When we finally got it out of the ground, it broke into two very large pieces. We transplanted it to a new location and new foliage is everywhere. Very exciting to see what happens as it reaches its full growth. Maybe there will be blossoms. That would be such a treat.
Winter is hard here in Illinois. On my walk-around this morning I noticed holes in the beds. That simply cannot be. A trip to the nursery is on my schedule. I will find low growing shrubs that will fill in those areas where ground cover is not covering anything. Slowly I am moving from flowers to shrubs. Shrubs seem to last much longer than those delicate early flowering plants. I will miss their color, but it will be easier on my pocketbook.
Just outside my front door are two very large winter arrangements in tall red containers. My front door is red so it goes together well. However, the dead evergreen limbs that once were deep green are now dirt brown. Not pretty at all. I was ready to throw them all away and replace with large ferns for summer when I noticed a bird had built her nest in the one on the right side of the door. There went that idea. Everyone else has lovely spring or summer arrangements on their steps or door. I have dead winter. The baby birds have now hatched and are hungry all the time. Once they make their way into the world, I will make the change from winter to spring at my door. Why couldn't she have built that nest in a less busy spot? I will never understand the mind of birds!
About a foot from the bird nest was a pile of leaves in my plant bed. Reaching over to clean the bed, I realized that it was a rabbit's nest. Right by the door. I patted her fur into place and left them to grow large enough to eat my plants. Or maybe I will take them on a little trip to a forest where they can nibble away at all things protected! It is like a zoo at this place.
Last week there were five quite large deer eating away. Since they were on the edge of the yard, I didn't run at them like a mad woman. I think they might have been grazing on the bluebells. There are thousands of bluebells on this place. We can spare a few.
We have a breezeway on the front of our house. A bird has built a nest that looks like a column at the top of a window in that area of the house. Mud is splattered on that window. It looks like it has been dive bombed. And speaking of dive bombing, once Mother Robin has her nest built and the children are awake begging for food, she will dive bomb us if we walk anywhere near her nest. Sometimes I feel like we are captives all year--by winter weather and then by nature that lives with us!
Ferns are gracing the beds. They add a touch of lace to the broad leaves. A lovely contrast. Shooting Stars, Trillium, Blood Root, Spring Beauty, Trout Lily, Lily of the Valley and many other early wildflowers are showing themselves. Soon others will replace them. It is an absolute joy to see them emerge. When the weather warms just a bit more, Queen Ann's Lace will appear. I love that plant. Not in my plant beds but along the road side. I can't remember the weed that grows with Queen Ann's Lace--it has a small blue flower and grows alongside the paved road. I know tea can be made by boiling its root. Anyway, I love that plant. It needs no care whatsoever.
It is time to do some foundation planting. Have some shrubs to plant later today when I return from my book study. All beds need to be edged. Weeds dug out. The ritual of spring in the garden is here. Last year we were on a garden walk. It was the hottest day of the year! Yet, people came. We have much shade so they could be out of the blazing sun. It was a joy to share our gardens with them. I think that might be the only time we do that. I tend to overlook a few weeds and such in my gardens. However, if others will come to see them, I examine those same beds in a completely different light. So, once was enough.
Many of the flowering trees are wearing their spring color. Just beautiful. Pinks, reds, white, purple--all blossoming together. Every spring when they bloom, I want to rush to the nursery and buy ten more trees that will bloom next spring. Then I realize there is no space for another tree. If you are reading this, stop and go outside. Look. Examine. Smell. Touch. The days for those trees to shine are numbered. Don't miss their glory. You really are not so busy that you can't find five minutes to fill your soul with their gift.
Years ago I planted Money Plant. It is an old plant. Very difficult to locate in nurseries. I have it in abundance. The seeds are carried by wind, shoes and birds. So, it appears in the most unlikely places. The purple blossoms are gorgeous right now in the garden. Soon they will disappear and the plant will produce "money." I love that plant. Never water it. Just let it grow.
Gardens are so personal. Everyone has an opinion about how a garden should look. Gardens give people a chance to create. Mine change all the time. And I think those changes make it better. Gardeners know that just because a plant is in the ground doesn't mean it is in the best place. So, we move things. Many times. Gardens evolve just as the people who tend them evolve. It is a partnership.
And now I am going to make the list of plants and shrubs to be purchased at the nursery today. It is going to be a busy afternoon of planting and cleaning. Tomorrow when I do the walk-around, I will know that those holes are filled and be glad!
So nice to visit with you on this lovely spring morning. Have a wonderful day.
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