I'm sure that for many Spring is a time of renewal! For me, the fall season is a season of renewal. I love the cool, crisp air, the vibrant colors changing on the trees and then crunching under foot. It is a wonderfully fresh feeling and it helps me thrive.
Work is busy right now as it is the end-of year wrap-up and beginning of the new year! We are already working on the November issue and November is always good! It is the start of so many things ... the beginning of my baby's life (as she was born in November ... hard to believe it was 17 years ago! YIKES!) It was the beginning of my brother's life (will be 40 years ... I love that!!! That one doesn't make me feel old, it's just fun to remind him that he'll soon be 40. Of course, he'll remind me that I am still older ... but that's OK! I'm sure he'd say wiser, too! LOL!!! It's the beginning of Christmas preparations and the month of my favorite holiday ... Thanksgiving! I love this holiday because it is a time of family gatherings, reflective thoughts on the blessings in life and no obligations for gifts, etc. It's just a holiday of sharing and I love that!
Of course, we can not forget that it is also the beginning of boy's high school basketball season! Carlinville's first home game is Nov. 24 and I am excited about it! A new school, new team, new crowd. I loved going to the Routt games, and I'm sure I'll love the Carlinville games, too. Just won't get to go to quite as many, as they play a lot of their games south. Cost of gas will limit my travels a bit!
In any case, fall is for fresh starts for me! Wishing you a fall of freshness, too!!
Blessings,
Lisa
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Friday, September 26, 2008
Finally time to post!
Life can get so busy ... and it seems to be for me, though there are days that I'm not sure what I 'm busy with.
Right now I am in Washington, D.C. at the Association for Women in Communications National Conference. I am the Springfield Chapter president and my chapter and my office graciously agreed to send me. I am learning a lot that I can use in both roles! So, I believe it will be beneficial and will help me be better in business, both my 9-5 job (though it isn't really 9 - 5), as well as my freelance work of writing, marketing and pr.
Today we had the privilege of touring the Newseum. It displays all of the major of events of history as depicted through the media. There was so much information, spread out over 6 floors, that in the two hours we had it was impossible to go through everything ... we hit the high points.
It is amazing to me all of the things that our nation has gone through ... the first printed newspaper, magazines ever printed. First broadcasts on both television and radio. So many basic things such as these. But there was so much more in depth information ... the display of the UniBomber's hideout house; a 4-d movie that showed Nellie Bly's courageous willingness to expose the horrid treatment women were receiving in an insane asylum by going undercover as a mental health patient; we saw details of the Oklahoma City bombing; Pattie Hearst's ordeal; the beginning of comics/cartoons; an interactive area for people to record themselves as a tv reporter;
I must say the most moving experience for me was the 911 exhibit ... it was incredible listening to so many people who had been there and literally saw the event first-had ... many were journalists, photographers and the emotion with which they spoke was heart-wrenching. Both men and women left the exhibit wiping tears from eyes for the senselessness of this event. As with many others, I know exactly where I was that fateful morning on 2001. I was the PR Director of a local college. As soon as we heard, faculty, staff and students migrated to the student lounge and gathered together to watch as everything unfolded. We cried ... we stood in disbelief. Many of us prayed as we stood there and on that day and throughout the week we held prayer services. It was one of those events ... very tragic ... that for short time at least, brought people together. Brought people to God. Helped us gather as a nation to stand together.
It was a wonderful glimpse into our history, though so much of it is dismal. It makes me wish I had paid more attention in history classes over the years. Perhaps it will help me pay more attention today!
Right now I am in Washington, D.C. at the Association for Women in Communications National Conference. I am the Springfield Chapter president and my chapter and my office graciously agreed to send me. I am learning a lot that I can use in both roles! So, I believe it will be beneficial and will help me be better in business, both my 9-5 job (though it isn't really 9 - 5), as well as my freelance work of writing, marketing and pr.
Today we had the privilege of touring the Newseum. It displays all of the major of events of history as depicted through the media. There was so much information, spread out over 6 floors, that in the two hours we had it was impossible to go through everything ... we hit the high points.
It is amazing to me all of the things that our nation has gone through ... the first printed newspaper, magazines ever printed. First broadcasts on both television and radio. So many basic things such as these. But there was so much more in depth information ... the display of the UniBomber's hideout house; a 4-d movie that showed Nellie Bly's courageous willingness to expose the horrid treatment women were receiving in an insane asylum by going undercover as a mental health patient; we saw details of the Oklahoma City bombing; Pattie Hearst's ordeal; the beginning of comics/cartoons; an interactive area for people to record themselves as a tv reporter;
I must say the most moving experience for me was the 911 exhibit ... it was incredible listening to so many people who had been there and literally saw the event first-had ... many were journalists, photographers and the emotion with which they spoke was heart-wrenching. Both men and women left the exhibit wiping tears from eyes for the senselessness of this event. As with many others, I know exactly where I was that fateful morning on 2001. I was the PR Director of a local college. As soon as we heard, faculty, staff and students migrated to the student lounge and gathered together to watch as everything unfolded. We cried ... we stood in disbelief. Many of us prayed as we stood there and on that day and throughout the week we held prayer services. It was one of those events ... very tragic ... that for short time at least, brought people together. Brought people to God. Helped us gather as a nation to stand together.
It was a wonderful glimpse into our history, though so much of it is dismal. It makes me wish I had paid more attention in history classes over the years. Perhaps it will help me pay more attention today!
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Almost forgot about Hurrican Gustav ...
My brother lives in Slidell, LA. So last weekend was long, not just because it was Labor Day weekend, either. We spent much of the weekend watching the progress of Gustav ... and praying that he and others would be safe and that Gustav wouldn't take out his house like Hurricane Katrina did. Prayers were answered! His house is fine and he was able to go back on Tuesday. Life is good! God is good! Thanks for the many prayers you all sent up! Very much appreciated!
Just another Friday night!
I was looking forward to a quiet evening at home! Mike had to work the football game at his school, and Kristian had plans to go to the Glenwood game with her friends. Her friends decided not to go, so we got to hang out together instead. And we were quite a pair. She has been doing lunges in PE class, so could hardly walk. I twisted my back getting up from a squatting position while taking pictures for work the other night. (A sign I'm getting older and not as flexible, huh?) In any case, I could hardly turn to look out the back window of the car. In spite of our aches and pains we had a great evening together!
We went to the bank and opened a checking account for her. She already had one at another bank, but it wasn't convenient for her ... this one is. She does pretty well managing her money. And we encourage that. Mike and I neither one were really taught the money management thing very well. In light of that, have made some mistakes along the way and are correcting them now. Tomorrow we even start a course at church ... David Ramsey's Financial Peace University. I'm really looking forward to it! I don't think Mike is going to go to the meetings (Sunday is his lesson plan, get-ready-for-the-week night.) He has promised he will read the materials, watch the DVDs, and work with me on it! We've been doing really well as of late communicating about the finances! This will only help us in that area : )
Back to Kristian and me. She is taking Culinary Arts at CACC (Capital Area Career Center) and needed a pair of shoes that would be comfortable and safe so, of course, we headed to the mall. Found some cute little jackets that were so cheap we couldn't afford not to buy them ... until we tried them on ... looked at each other and said ... "Uh, no!" They were way cuter on the hangers! So, we left them ... I know Mike will be proud of us for that! LOL!!!
We did find a dress that she wants to wear to an upcoming wedding ... so we'll go back and get that later. We moved on to find the shoes. She said, "Mom let's go to Hot Topic." I'm pretty sure I rolled my eyes and said OK, sure that we couldn't possibly find the shoes she needed in there. I stand corrected. Not only did they have them, they had them marked down 50% and then another 50% off of that ... $9 : ) YAY!!! So, she got those and a $5 pair of black canvas tennies. A successful visit to the mall. We listened to her music on the way to and from. Stopped and got a treat at the Cookie Factory and headed back home, where we went our separate ways. She headed downstairs to watch her TV shows, and I watched a depressing movie and sat on the couch crying! Yes, I know I could have changed the channel, but sometimes a good cry is a good thing!
Zach stopped by and showed me his new car. Bought a 2007 Chrysler 300. It was dark outside, so didn't get a good look, but I think it was like a slate color blue/gray. Beautiful interior and the main thing he needed ... lots of leg room! Remember, by baby boy is 6'11" : ) He seemed pleased with it, got a good deal, and I know he'll be safe in it. His other car was in poor shape. He's stopping by sometime today so he can show Mike. Perhaps it will be daylight and we can actually see it : )
OK ... I've read the paper already, had breakfast and checked e-mail ... must go to the grocery store and start my Saturday!
Happy weekend!
Lisa
We went to the bank and opened a checking account for her. She already had one at another bank, but it wasn't convenient for her ... this one is. She does pretty well managing her money. And we encourage that. Mike and I neither one were really taught the money management thing very well. In light of that, have made some mistakes along the way and are correcting them now. Tomorrow we even start a course at church ... David Ramsey's Financial Peace University. I'm really looking forward to it! I don't think Mike is going to go to the meetings (Sunday is his lesson plan, get-ready-for-the-week night.) He has promised he will read the materials, watch the DVDs, and work with me on it! We've been doing really well as of late communicating about the finances! This will only help us in that area : )
Back to Kristian and me. She is taking Culinary Arts at CACC (Capital Area Career Center) and needed a pair of shoes that would be comfortable and safe so, of course, we headed to the mall. Found some cute little jackets that were so cheap we couldn't afford not to buy them ... until we tried them on ... looked at each other and said ... "Uh, no!" They were way cuter on the hangers! So, we left them ... I know Mike will be proud of us for that! LOL!!!
We did find a dress that she wants to wear to an upcoming wedding ... so we'll go back and get that later. We moved on to find the shoes. She said, "Mom let's go to Hot Topic." I'm pretty sure I rolled my eyes and said OK, sure that we couldn't possibly find the shoes she needed in there. I stand corrected. Not only did they have them, they had them marked down 50% and then another 50% off of that ... $9 : ) YAY!!! So, she got those and a $5 pair of black canvas tennies. A successful visit to the mall. We listened to her music on the way to and from. Stopped and got a treat at the Cookie Factory and headed back home, where we went our separate ways. She headed downstairs to watch her TV shows, and I watched a depressing movie and sat on the couch crying! Yes, I know I could have changed the channel, but sometimes a good cry is a good thing!
Zach stopped by and showed me his new car. Bought a 2007 Chrysler 300. It was dark outside, so didn't get a good look, but I think it was like a slate color blue/gray. Beautiful interior and the main thing he needed ... lots of leg room! Remember, by baby boy is 6'11" : ) He seemed pleased with it, got a good deal, and I know he'll be safe in it. His other car was in poor shape. He's stopping by sometime today so he can show Mike. Perhaps it will be daylight and we can actually see it : )
OK ... I've read the paper already, had breakfast and checked e-mail ... must go to the grocery store and start my Saturday!
Happy weekend!
Lisa
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Everyone has issues ...
When I think about the things in my life that I sometimes worry about ... health, finances, relationships, etc., there are often issues in the lives of those around me that seem so much more significant.
My best friend's father-in-law passed away yesterday. She has recently had to put her father in a nursing home so that he would receive the care he needed. And they have two small children to care for in the middle of it all.
My boss' 10-year old dog got sick suddenly, and now he has to decide whether surgery is the best route or whether it will be best to put him down. Anyone who has pets knows they become a "human-like" part of the family. So the decision will not be an easy one.
And I recently found out that someone I interviewed for a magazine profile who said that her son was the light of her life has learned that at only 11 years old, has a rare childhood cancer. I can't even imagine how she must feel.
Another close friend is trying to stop smoking; another is dealing with job issues; my Mom is facing another surgery; my Dad is unhealthy and won't face it or take care of himself. Issues everywhere ... we all have 'em!
So, as I have told a couple of folks lately ... the cool thing is no matter what our issues are, whether we think they are big or small, God doesn't see them as we do. He handles all of them in the same manner. He sees each of us as important, as well as the cares and burdens we carry, and He celebrates our victories with us, too!
He is an awesome God and I'm glad He walks with me and is willing to handle my "issues." Allow Him to handle yours, too!!
Wishing you a day full of blessings!
Lisa
Honestly,
My best friend's father-in-law passed away yesterday. She has recently had to put her father in a nursing home so that he would receive the care he needed. And they have two small children to care for in the middle of it all.
My boss' 10-year old dog got sick suddenly, and now he has to decide whether surgery is the best route or whether it will be best to put him down. Anyone who has pets knows they become a "human-like" part of the family. So the decision will not be an easy one.
And I recently found out that someone I interviewed for a magazine profile who said that her son was the light of her life has learned that at only 11 years old, has a rare childhood cancer. I can't even imagine how she must feel.
Another close friend is trying to stop smoking; another is dealing with job issues; my Mom is facing another surgery; my Dad is unhealthy and won't face it or take care of himself. Issues everywhere ... we all have 'em!
So, as I have told a couple of folks lately ... the cool thing is no matter what our issues are, whether we think they are big or small, God doesn't see them as we do. He handles all of them in the same manner. He sees each of us as important, as well as the cares and burdens we carry, and He celebrates our victories with us, too!
He is an awesome God and I'm glad He walks with me and is willing to handle my "issues." Allow Him to handle yours, too!!
Wishing you a day full of blessings!
Lisa
Honestly,
Monday, August 18, 2008
School Days, School Days ...
It was obvious at our house this morning that today was the first day of school : )
I got up, normal time, went for my walk ... 2 miles today.
Came home ... Mike had already gotten up and was ready for his first day, just finishing up breakfast and then he headed out.
I was in the back of the house after my shower and heard the front door open ... thought perhaps Mike forgot something ... nope ... it was Zach! Wanted to know if the shirt he had on (for his first day of work ... at Chatham Elementary) was wrinkled enough to need ironed : ) I had him throw it in the dryer with a damp towel.
Then I headed downstairs to wake Kristian up at the appointed 7 a.m. hour ... an hour she hasn't seen in some time! Surprisingly, she woke up in a good mood, talked to me and everything : )
Back up stairs to gather all of my things so I could go to work. As I left, Kristian was getting her keys out and getting ready to leave; Zach was having a bowl of cereal while waiting for his shirt. Buddy (our yellow lab) was looking confused ... why in the world was Kristian up and moving, Zach visiting at this bizarre a.m. hour and Daddy already gone.
Love having my family up and moving in the a.m. The hustle and bustle is good ... and everyone having their day's purpose ahead of them!!!
How was your family's first day of school?
I got up, normal time, went for my walk ... 2 miles today.
Came home ... Mike had already gotten up and was ready for his first day, just finishing up breakfast and then he headed out.
I was in the back of the house after my shower and heard the front door open ... thought perhaps Mike forgot something ... nope ... it was Zach! Wanted to know if the shirt he had on (for his first day of work ... at Chatham Elementary) was wrinkled enough to need ironed : ) I had him throw it in the dryer with a damp towel.
Then I headed downstairs to wake Kristian up at the appointed 7 a.m. hour ... an hour she hasn't seen in some time! Surprisingly, she woke up in a good mood, talked to me and everything : )
Back up stairs to gather all of my things so I could go to work. As I left, Kristian was getting her keys out and getting ready to leave; Zach was having a bowl of cereal while waiting for his shirt. Buddy (our yellow lab) was looking confused ... why in the world was Kristian up and moving, Zach visiting at this bizarre a.m. hour and Daddy already gone.
Love having my family up and moving in the a.m. The hustle and bustle is good ... and everyone having their day's purpose ahead of them!!!
How was your family's first day of school?
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Back to school!
Ahhh, back to school time! Well, for Mike & Kristian, anyway : ) We'll have some adjusting to do this week, as school starts for both of them tomorrow.
In preparation, mine and Mike's Friday night date night was a visit to the mall for some school clothes ... at least the start of his school clothes. He's excited because it's mostly going to be t-shirts and shorts : ) Remember, he is a P.E. teacher/coach! He'll also be teaching behind the wheel for Driver's Ed. Afterwards, we met friends for dinner ... beer and pizza at a local Italian restaurant ... we had fun! Note to self: Need to make an effort to get together with friends more often!!
Saturday was the day to get the rest of Kristian's school clothes. It was fun, too! And, when Kristian and I shop, it usually begins as a fun outing, but typically doesn't end that way. Yesterday, we went to the mall ... hit one store ... then got her ears pierced (again ... this is the fourth time, I think.) She has very sensitive ears so they usually get infected. We've tried Titanium this time ... hopefully, it will work! After we finished shopping she said "Mom, we should go see Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants 2 tonight. So, not only did she want to go shopping with me (I offered to give her money and just let her call a friend to go. ... she said she wanted to go with me!) but she wanted to actually hang out later, too!! YAY!!! It has been a great weekend! Hopefully, that will lead into a great week!!!
In preparation, mine and Mike's Friday night date night was a visit to the mall for some school clothes ... at least the start of his school clothes. He's excited because it's mostly going to be t-shirts and shorts : ) Remember, he is a P.E. teacher/coach! He'll also be teaching behind the wheel for Driver's Ed. Afterwards, we met friends for dinner ... beer and pizza at a local Italian restaurant ... we had fun! Note to self: Need to make an effort to get together with friends more often!!
Saturday was the day to get the rest of Kristian's school clothes. It was fun, too! And, when Kristian and I shop, it usually begins as a fun outing, but typically doesn't end that way. Yesterday, we went to the mall ... hit one store ... then got her ears pierced (again ... this is the fourth time, I think.) She has very sensitive ears so they usually get infected. We've tried Titanium this time ... hopefully, it will work! After we finished shopping she said "Mom, we should go see Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants 2 tonight. So, not only did she want to go shopping with me (I offered to give her money and just let her call a friend to go. ... she said she wanted to go with me!) but she wanted to actually hang out later, too!! YAY!!! It has been a great weekend! Hopefully, that will lead into a great week!!!
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