No in-between with my luggage.
Either I have the tiny black rolling case left over from college (you know the one), or I have the mammoth Ralph Lauren rolling beast which I can barely navigate when stuffed with -- a few of my favorite things.
So I got onto the Hertz rental car bus and the exchange when something like this.
Me: Hey there!
Him: Girl, do you need some help?
Me: I Know! It was the only thing I had available in my closet.
Him: And it looks like you filled it up......with EVERYTHING that was available in your closet!
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
"My January Project"
Since the beginning of Nov., I have coined the phrase, "That's my January Project". This has helped me feel better about not getting things done that need my attention but aren't totally crucial.
So far the list is:
1. Coat Rack for the Children's outer wear (which is currently strewn across the floor of the mud room).
2. Clean off my desk at work.
3. Call a plumber about the broken knobs on the basement bathroom sink, the kitchen sink, the master bathroom bathtub and the guest bathroom shower.
4. Organize our home office.
5. Hang art in my new house.
6. Train myself on all the equipment I am clueless about at the church.
7. Start doing yoga again (I want to join Lifetime fitness but it is very expensive).
8. Get some boundaries.
9. Start reading again.
10. Begin futuring for my job rather than just riding the wave of the urgent.
11. Get into a schedule of having people over for dinner once a week - to practice hospitality.
So far the list is:
1. Coat Rack for the Children's outer wear (which is currently strewn across the floor of the mud room).
2. Clean off my desk at work.
3. Call a plumber about the broken knobs on the basement bathroom sink, the kitchen sink, the master bathroom bathtub and the guest bathroom shower.
4. Organize our home office.
5. Hang art in my new house.
6. Train myself on all the equipment I am clueless about at the church.
7. Start doing yoga again (I want to join Lifetime fitness but it is very expensive).
8. Get some boundaries.
9. Start reading again.
10. Begin futuring for my job rather than just riding the wave of the urgent.
11. Get into a schedule of having people over for dinner once a week - to practice hospitality.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Christmas At Resurrection
Huge Christmas Production.
December 7th through the 14th (Rehearsals and Performances).
December 7th through the 14th (Rehearsals and Performances).
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Friday, November 28, 2008
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Happy Thanksgiving - from the ranch
The children and I drove down to "Papa's Ranch" for the holiday. Thanksgiving at the ranch is a special tradition for us.
Papa cooks breakfast for us every morning and Kimaw's Thanksgiving day feast is delectable.
There are always out-doorsy activities for us to do. We take long walks, play on hay bales, climb on lichen laced boulders, and search for wildlife. Last year, we shot clay pigeons. This year, we're going fishing.
Earlier today, we went down to the barn with Papa to try and figure out what type of varmint had been squatting there. I pushed my kids on the home-made tire swing. Papa showed us his latest taxidermy (giant caribou antlers from his recent big-game hunting trip to Alaska).
I cherish times like this.
Monday, November 17, 2008
I spend more $$ on my dogs than on my children.
Did I say that my dogs were awesome? I take it back.
Today I got the twins groomed. Also, they needed a shot or two and a check-up to make sure that they are physically fit enough for next weeks neuter.
They did great! They look great! They are in great shape! All for the low low price of $508. Wait, I did get a $25 credit for a vet referral from my neighbor.
Next weeks bill: $270 per dog. That is a total of $540 or $135 per testicle.
So in two weeks, we will have spent $1,080 on two four-legged mooches who have no idea how good they have it.
I would get rid of them except for the fact that I already have a huge investment in them!
I should have stuck with cats.
Today I got the twins groomed. Also, they needed a shot or two and a check-up to make sure that they are physically fit enough for next weeks neuter.
They did great! They look great! They are in great shape! All for the low low price of $508. Wait, I did get a $25 credit for a vet referral from my neighbor.
Next weeks bill: $270 per dog. That is a total of $540 or $135 per testicle.
So in two weeks, we will have spent $1,080 on two four-legged mooches who have no idea how good they have it.
I would get rid of them except for the fact that I already have a huge investment in them!
I should have stuck with cats.
Friday, November 14, 2008
Our Pups
Well they just turned a year old a few weeks ago - - won't be pups much longer! Apollo and Starbuck are getting pretty big. They each weigh about 65 pounds right now. The vet says they will probably both get up to about 90!
This was one of the best "quality of life" purchases we have made. These dogs are amazing!
Catastrophe Overted...
Creighton was driving home from work and happened to glance down a side-street (just off the busy street on which he was driving).
He noticed the head of a little boy (18-20 months roughly). As he looked closer, he noticed that the boy was chasing after his puppy - and that the boy was totally naked!
He whipped around the block to confirm what he thought he saw.
Once again, that was a naked baby boy chasing a puppy near a busy feeder road in Kansas City on a 38 degree day.
So Creighton, slams the car in park and runs to the boy. He wraps the child in his fleece and begins to walk from house to house in an attempt to find out who this AWH pair belongs to. Boy knows one word for sure: Puppy!
After about the 5th house, Creighton notices that the dog heads across the street in a "Lassie-I'll-point-the-way" fashion. So he follows.
Open garage door. Open entry door. Creighton enters the house yelling, "HELLO! ANYONE HOME??"
The dad comes running when he hears the racket. Jaw drops. Eyes as wide as saucers. All he could say was, "Tyler?"
Creighton recounted the story to the man who stood there in shock. The man said, Thank you."
Creighton said, "I need my fleece back."
Silly baby.
Bad daddy.
Good puppy.
He noticed the head of a little boy (18-20 months roughly). As he looked closer, he noticed that the boy was chasing after his puppy - and that the boy was totally naked!
He whipped around the block to confirm what he thought he saw.
Once again, that was a naked baby boy chasing a puppy near a busy feeder road in Kansas City on a 38 degree day.
So Creighton, slams the car in park and runs to the boy. He wraps the child in his fleece and begins to walk from house to house in an attempt to find out who this AWH pair belongs to. Boy knows one word for sure: Puppy!
After about the 5th house, Creighton notices that the dog heads across the street in a "Lassie-I'll-point-the-way" fashion. So he follows.
Open garage door. Open entry door. Creighton enters the house yelling, "HELLO! ANYONE HOME??"
The dad comes running when he hears the racket. Jaw drops. Eyes as wide as saucers. All he could say was, "Tyler?"
Creighton recounted the story to the man who stood there in shock. The man said, Thank you."
Creighton said, "I need my fleece back."
Silly baby.
Bad daddy.
Good puppy.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
The UMC in the 21st Cntury
Four Areas of Focus: A conversation is taking place across the United Methodist Church about a vision of ministry and mission for the 21st century. Inspired by the UM ministries around the globe, this vision has emerged as the Four Areas of Focus for the future of the United Methodist Church. They are:
1. Developing principled Christian leaders for the church and the world.
2. Creating new places for new people and renewing existing congregations.
3. Engaging in ministry with the poor.
4. Stamping out the killer diseases of poverty by improving health globally.
1. Developing principled Christian leaders for the church and the world.
2. Creating new places for new people and renewing existing congregations.
3. Engaging in ministry with the poor.
4. Stamping out the killer diseases of poverty by improving health globally.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
My Badass Brood of Jedi
Finally getting my holloween photos up!
Everyone got REALLY into their roles.
As always, Cosmo gets to be the animal or mascot. In this case - - the Master.
Whitby loved being Ahsoka (and loved putting on make-up).
Canon was very serious about being Anakin.
And Creighton got to bust out his legit light saber replica. Obi Wan at his best.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Petting Zoo - Sunday
While we lived in Lawrence, we heard about this place called Deanna Rose Childrens Farmstead. We visited it twice and the kids LOVED it.
I knew it was in the city but never really paid attention to the actual location - - because I rarely pay attention to where I am going, especially if I am not driving.
Come to find out, Deanna Rose is literally 3 minutes from my house!!
I am so excited!
We took the kids on Saturday and on Sunday.
Cos fell asleep on Sunday because we went during his usual naptime. So I just snuggled with him for an hour while the other kids played.
What a dreamy day.
Friday, October 24, 2008
Thinking about election day....
I feel pretty confident about Obama - - but now and then I waiver.
I am PRO-LIFE, and I, like so many of my friends want abortion to end. If I was a one-issue voter, I would not check the Obama box. But when I look at the big picture - I see Obama as the transformational leader this nation needs.
Education
Environment
Economy
Equality
Health Care
Global Playing Well With Others....
On these issues, Obama has a more compelling message of hope and change.
I know that Gov't programs are failing at truly caring for the working poor and the homeless, union systems are in need of repair, Universal Healthcare won't solve all of our medical problems and hard-working Americans like my dad will be taxed at a heavier level.
But I don't hear any plausible alternatives from John McCain.
And I DO think that reform is in our future.
I don't want to be cliche but I do believe that there is hope for this country.
I am willing to give Barack a chance to lead us to a better place.
We'll see what happens on the 4th....
I am PRO-LIFE, and I, like so many of my friends want abortion to end. If I was a one-issue voter, I would not check the Obama box. But when I look at the big picture - I see Obama as the transformational leader this nation needs.
Education
Environment
Economy
Equality
Health Care
Global Playing Well With Others....
On these issues, Obama has a more compelling message of hope and change.
I know that Gov't programs are failing at truly caring for the working poor and the homeless, union systems are in need of repair, Universal Healthcare won't solve all of our medical problems and hard-working Americans like my dad will be taxed at a heavier level.
But I don't hear any plausible alternatives from John McCain.
And I DO think that reform is in our future.
I don't want to be cliche but I do believe that there is hope for this country.
I am willing to give Barack a chance to lead us to a better place.
We'll see what happens on the 4th....
Obsession de jour: Pumpkin Ale
Watch out Hornsby's Crisp Apple Hard Cider! This fall you have some competition. Pumpkin Ale. My friend Janelle introduced it to me.
At first it tastes like Ale.
Then, it tastes like pumpkin pie.
You might be thinking, "eeew". But give it a try!
It's quite good. Especially on a cool autumn evening.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Hello again!
I have been off the radar for a couple o weeks...
We sold our house in Lawrence and bought a house in Overland Park. We had a three week window to get out of the Lawrence house and get into something else. Everything worked out beautifully (even though we were homeless for 3 days). But our moving truck came to our new residence yesterday and everyone slept in their own bed last night!
Now, my commute is 8 minutes door to door.
Big thanks to Jen and Lance Johnson for letting us have a family sleep-over. Thanks to Lynn Carter and Shannon Ocsody for taking children off my hands for a while so I could pack up my house.
We sold our house in Lawrence and bought a house in Overland Park. We had a three week window to get out of the Lawrence house and get into something else. Everything worked out beautifully (even though we were homeless for 3 days). But our moving truck came to our new residence yesterday and everyone slept in their own bed last night!
Now, my commute is 8 minutes door to door.
Big thanks to Jen and Lance Johnson for letting us have a family sleep-over. Thanks to Lynn Carter and Shannon Ocsody for taking children off my hands for a while so I could pack up my house.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
To Buy or Not To Buy
So.... We are stuck right on the fence. Should we buy and gain instant equity - taking the risk of owning property in this scary market? Or should we rent - free from the commitment of ownership but not gaining any equity and "throwing away" our rent money?
It seems like renting would be a good option right now. To not be tied down to property in light of America's financial crisis sounds good. But if we buy and weather the recession, we will probably come out on top in the end.
What is the smartest thing to do?
It seems like renting would be a good option right now. To not be tied down to property in light of America's financial crisis sounds good. But if we buy and weather the recession, we will probably come out on top in the end.
What is the smartest thing to do?
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Refresh 2008
I am the coordinator for Refresh '08, a conference for United Methodists in campus ministry.
If you know ANYONE in ministry with college students or on a campus ministry board, or someone remotely interested in campus ministry - - Please pass on the info for Refresh.
Refresh is a highly interactive 3 days of resourcing and connecting with others in our specialized ministry.
December 15th - 18th 2008. The Woodlands UMC, The Woodlands TX.
Monday, September 29, 2008
On the topic of "isms"
Cosmo-isms:
"Mommy, I wanna hold you."
(Every morning) "Is it mornin' mom?"
"I wanna do it myself!" (about everything)
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Deward-isms
My dad is a trip - - in a good way.
I have chronicled, in years past, some of his axioms: Deward-isms.
Recently our conversations have revolved around the topic of money and more specifically, real estate purchases.
So here are some Deward-isms of late:
"You make your money in the details."
"I didn't get to where I am today by paying people full price."
And my personal favorite:
"I'm not buying anything today unless I am paying fifty cents on the dollar."
Perhaps you have a "dad-ism" you'd like to share....
I have chronicled, in years past, some of his axioms: Deward-isms.
Recently our conversations have revolved around the topic of money and more specifically, real estate purchases.
So here are some Deward-isms of late:
"You make your money in the details."
"I didn't get to where I am today by paying people full price."
And my personal favorite:
"I'm not buying anything today unless I am paying fifty cents on the dollar."
Perhaps you have a "dad-ism" you'd like to share....
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
A Sight for Sore Eyes
We finally have a contract on our house! Only trick is, they want to move in October 9th!
For some, this might be a problem. For the Alexanders, who live in a constant state of "wingin' it", - - piece of cake.
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Butterflies
Today we took the kids out to the Baker Wetlands to catch and tag butterflies. The Monarch butterflies use the Baker Wetlands as a kind of rest stop on their journey down to Mexico for the winter. They fill up their tanks, grab a ham and cheese....
KU has a Monarch research department, so for the last 3 Septembers, we have gone out to the Wetlands, to help these entomologists tag butterflies, so they can be tracked on their travels.
It truly has been such a joy for the family. I love the unique memories this gives the children. It's something they will never forget.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Axioms
I have really been loving Bill Hybels leadership book AXIOMS.
The chapters are 2 pages long so I feel like I am getting somewhere!
Chapter I read today was about hiring leaders.
Might seem hokey, but he always looks for the 3 C's: Character, Competence, Chemistry.
Character is top priority (in church work clearly) and that is what he spends the majority of his time checking out. Even takes people on outings to "observe" the way the handle certain situations.
Next, Competence. No brainer. You definitely need someone with the right qualifications - skills, experience, talent...etc.
Third is Chemistry. He talks about the importance of a person being a good fit within the team. "Don't overlook this", he warns, "Your team and the work will suffer if they don't have chemistry".
In the past, we (Creighton and I) have brought people on our teams just because we need to fill a position or we were in a bind or because the person really really really wanted to be there. We learned the lesson of the 3 C's early on - - and we're still learning. I'm glad to hear Bill articulate it in this memorable way.
The chapters are 2 pages long so I feel like I am getting somewhere!
Chapter I read today was about hiring leaders.
Might seem hokey, but he always looks for the 3 C's: Character, Competence, Chemistry.
Character is top priority (in church work clearly) and that is what he spends the majority of his time checking out. Even takes people on outings to "observe" the way the handle certain situations.
Next, Competence. No brainer. You definitely need someone with the right qualifications - skills, experience, talent...etc.
Third is Chemistry. He talks about the importance of a person being a good fit within the team. "Don't overlook this", he warns, "Your team and the work will suffer if they don't have chemistry".
In the past, we (Creighton and I) have brought people on our teams just because we need to fill a position or we were in a bind or because the person really really really wanted to be there. We learned the lesson of the 3 C's early on - - and we're still learning. I'm glad to hear Bill articulate it in this memorable way.
Wipe that smirk off your face, Poo.
Poor Baby.
Cos is home - sick today. He shat his pants 3 times at pre-school yesterday...and barfed in the car this morning.
I feel sorry for him, but for me it means I get to work from home. It's quite nice to have a break from the commute today!
Sunday, September 7, 2008
List: 2
Talked about a list of functions that I WISH were a part of my everyday life. I have not carved out time for these important life goals. Maybe it's because I have it in my mind that I have to do each one an hour a day - so I put it off completely.
1. Practice Spanish
2. Work out
3. Practice guitar
4. Pray and immerse myself in the Word an hour a day
5. Do one-on-one's with each of my children (at least once a week)
And while I am on the topic of lists. Here is the list of classes I would take if I had the margin:
1. Akido or Kung Fu
2. Spanish
3. Guitar
4. Yoga instruction
5. Photography
6. Web design
I'd love to hear from you about some of your "lists".
Important Sidenote:
This is in no way meant to evoke guilt.
I do not feel guilty - I merely want to write this as a way of saying, "Keep Moving Forward!"
1. Practice Spanish
2. Work out
3. Practice guitar
4. Pray and immerse myself in the Word an hour a day
5. Do one-on-one's with each of my children (at least once a week)
And while I am on the topic of lists. Here is the list of classes I would take if I had the margin:
1. Akido or Kung Fu
2. Spanish
3. Guitar
4. Yoga instruction
5. Photography
6. Web design
I'd love to hear from you about some of your "lists".
Important Sidenote:
This is in no way meant to evoke guilt.
I do not feel guilty - I merely want to write this as a way of saying, "Keep Moving Forward!"
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Natalie
Natalie Merchant is a savant. Raw, naked humanity is her inspiration. Her art is always profound and exegetic. Want earthy and authentic? Natalie will never disappoint.
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