Dreaming Big

I updated my list, removing some of the items that either didn't seem feasible or make sense anymore. My new goals start with "action" and more attainable at this time in life. I revise to include a Yo Yo Ma concert, Madonna, NYC, new work, adoption, tithing, volunteering for a non profit that means something to me, spending time with my parents. I need to revise it again to include more health related area as I need to improve my health. I shall consider to dream and determine how to put it into action.

I'm also dreaming about what to do for my birthday. No definite plans at the moment but I'm starting to grow ideas. Part of the fun is planning.

A Servant's Heart

For awhile now, one of the spiritual muscles I've been wanting to flex more is serving (volunteering) on Sundays (or where needed) at church. I've been struggling between my selfishness with time and the desire to give my time in some way. I've started serving at church in two ways.

Small Group.
The first way I serve at church is as a co-leader of a small women's group. We meet each week on a regular basis. Our time together is spent getting to know one another and living life together. It's not just about what we did that day or the work we do in our jobs but we are able to connect at a much deeper level. We share what is making us joyful in our days, what saddens us. We discuss what life struggles we are experiencing right now and how we can support one another. We study the Bible and reflect on our pastor's message from the Sunday before. We pray together. We pray for each other's lives and we pray for the community beyond us. We pray for those who are sick or struggling. We pray. We praise.

When Loving Hearts Come Together.
I took this photo as part of my 365 Project (a photo everyday of my life for one year). It's one of my favorite shots I've ever done because it symbolizes what "community" really means. Every heart is different but together it's beautiful!
These are the hands of the women in my group.

Helping lead these women week in and week out is such a special time for me. I get to see how God is transforming them in their lives, building deeper faith in them and watching them love upon each other. It's a place of healing and feeling uplifted. It's a safe place where we can share life.

It took some courage for me to be a leader. Considering the time commitment and being in a leadership position (my natural tendency is to be a follower) is character building. But, learning how to be one is a life lesson. It is a blessing to be here.

Good morning. Welcome!
One of the other ways starting out as small step, I dipped my toe between two ministries; the Welcome team and the children's ministry. For one Sunday each month or so I'd serve on one team and on another the other team. Back and forth, back and forth I'd volunteer my time never really dedicating my efforts in a meaningful or impactful way. Where is God calling me to serve? Why does the time spent between the two ministries still leave me feeling empty? I prayed about it and felt He was asking me to be more focused with my time and not so scattered so that the time I do spend there can be used really getting to know the people who crossed the doors, meeting and knowing them.

On Sunday mornings, if you bring your child to the children's ministry, twice a month you will find me at the entrance checking them in and simply saying "Good morning. Welcome! I'm so happy to see you." What a joy it is to be around young children. I don't have any of my own but to see their vibrant, smiling faces brings a little bit of joy into my own heart. My role seems small and easy but really I find it to be important. After all, it was that first warm, friendly "Hello" I received when I first visited this church that had me coming back again... and again... and again. May I just be a piece of that "Hello".

Tomorrow morning when our church opens the doors at our new location I will be there to welcome the little ones and their parents.

I am humbled.
Serving is a humbling experience. It's getting outside of yourself, your own needs, your own desires to serve something so much greater than one person can possibly be. I'm humbled to let go of precious time where I sometimes would rather be using to fulfill my own needs but instead I use it to be available for another. Serving doesn't come naturally to me. I'm a selfish person. I am humbled.

A Year of 40

My birthday isn't until July. But I consider my list to be valid for the entire year that I'm 40. Haha! The list is continuously revised as my "think bigger" dreams evolve.

I haven't been good about keeping up this blog but I plan to do better as the special milestone year kicks off. Why celebrate a birthday for one day when you can celebrate the entire year of being that age.

My latest check off of this list is starting my own artsy business. Last November I signed up to be an Independent Demonstrator with Stampin' Up!. I hosted my first workshop in February and am planning another in April.

I would have had one in March but I caught the flu bug and am still recovering from it so unfortunately that workshop was cancelled. Being and ID with SU is bound to be an interesting experience. It's life consuming even when you don't want it to be. I realize I need to be much, much more organized to make room for conducting business. So, I'm taking my time getting it rolling and doing it one workshop at a time for now.

40 is bound to be interesting. In discussion is a trip to Italy with my BFF Kim. Hopefully finances and timing will work out. Our goal is to hit the mediterranean country within our big year. Can't wait!

What shall I check off next? I have a lot of work ahead of still to do.

Less Than a Year

Since my last post a year ago, I've gotten busy with getting my craft on! 

In November 2010 I bought myself a dSLR camera.  After the photography class I couldn't wait to pick up a "fancy" camera and start shooting.  So, when the sales started up for the holiday season I jumped in and got myself a camera kit.  A new obsession began. 

In January I started a new project called "365 Project" where you take a photo of your life each day for a year.  You can see it on my 365 project site.  It's been a transformational project, bringing more peace and creativity into my life.  It's tough thinking of topics day in and day out (which is why I have tons of photos of Lucy on there) but often times the result is worth the time.

Through the year I've started getting more involved in a scrapping/crafting group.  We'll be planning our first retreat in November with a beach house in northern California where we will craft all weekend.  Very excited!

The year has taken me on a trip to Banff/Jasper area in Alberta, Canada.  The views were stunning.

And now, it's September.  It seems as I get older the days pass by faster.  It amazes me that we can see Halloween on the horizon with the holidays just beyond. 

So, it makes me wonder why does 40 have to seem so "final"?  I need to set goals beyond 40 because when I reach July next year, I want to celebrate it with joy and excitement.  I don't want the "over the hill", black balloons, tombstone reminders.  Middle age is right in front of me and I don't think I'm ready.  I need to travel through a couple more rites of passage before I get "old".

Wait, 40 is the new 30, right?

Time after time...

Hilarious! 

I can't believe it's been months since I've blogged here.  While things have changed, nothing has changed as well.  The niece and nephews are growing and maturing.  Work, home are constant and not changing.  I've done a lot of stuff and I've done a lot of nothing.  My 20th High School reunion just passed by.  Where has the time gone?

I've reignited or maybe it's more like I've begun to focus more on my creative self.  Recently, I took a photography class and have been getting more and more into card making.  Fancy papers, adhesive, punchers, stamps... it's my meditation.  You can find me at Studio Julz.

Off I go to get my craft on!

New York City

New York City! It's a wonderful town. I finally made it there and spent several glorious days eating, watching Broadway shows, seeing Hugh Jackman and Daniel Craig in "A Steady Rain", shopping, touring this fantastic city. I heart NYC!

Oh Baby

On August 27, my newest nephew was born into this world. I was there from the time my sister-in-law was at 4cm until he emerged. This little guy was clear that he wasn't going to make it easy to make his grand entrance but after mommy's perseverance, he emerged just before midnight with a loud, strong cry. He is one of the most beautiful people in my life. Seeing him just moments after he was born is an experience I will never forget. I finally held him the next day, after all the tiring excitement of the previous night. Holding him in my arms, I found myself softly speaking to him in Chinese which is odd since English is my first language. But the rhythm of the language was lulling and familiar.

An unexpected moment for me was when they put him on my sis-in-law's chest for the first time. I happened to be standing right next to her and hearing her sigh and the look on her face, I felt the world stop and a moment of pure satisfaction envelope around us. I pray that someday I will have a similar experience.

Welcome little one! I'm so glad you're here.

NYC, Here I Come

I'm going. Yippee, I'm going. With little on my touristy agenda, I plan to pretend to be a New Yorker for a few days. I am so excited!

C&C in town for a visit

I love them. I don't have kids but they are my closest people to them; my beloved niece and nephew. My cousin was getting married so the whole family was in town to celebrate and witness the nuptials. C&C came too and for one night their parents went off on an overnight date and my parents and I hung out with them. I've loved them at every age they've been through. Now that their a tween and a teen, they are a new delight. A new experience for my psyche. With their parents away, they turned to me for security and entertainment. We had the best time laughing, joking, singing, jumping (oh, the jumping pictures... they still make me smile), exploring, eating, and more laughing.

Some of my favorite days!

Decluttering: Moving Furniture

Your home is supposed to be your sanctuary. I've been staring at mine for months now thinking "how do I make this my sanctuary...what can I do to make this space fresh and inspiring". I am met with silence and the dampening of my creative spirit.

My younger brother (who is actually older than me... let's call him "little brother") and sister-in-law who are expecting their first child soon so they have been eagerly nesting. Part of their nesting efforts included decluttering to make room for the baby. Lucky me, I'm the receiver of their generosity. Last weekend, they called me and said "we're ready to move the shelf to your place". This isn't any old shelf, but a very large one that my brother renovated years ago. I wasn't expecting to get furniture at this time but I had no choice but to accept since it was the only time they were available. This sudden offer forced me to quickly decide what I was going to do with the remaining furniture left in that room where the shelf would be residing. A small desk sat there holding a TV, though originally intended for a computer. Over the years, its intentions had been altered. I decided to place this small desk in a corner of my kitchen facing the family room TV. So, now it sits in this perfectly placed corner.

This small movement of putting an "old" desk in a new space has created a new vision of functionality and creativity. I now have a convenient work space where I can keep my laptop, mail, and basic office supplies. Originally kept in my home office space, I found that my clutter usually ended up in the kitchen and not quite making it up the stairs to the office, causing my main area of living to be messy and uncomfortable. The flow of positive energy was definitely off kilter. I'm not finished organizing this space, but the creative juices are flowing vigorously.

Because I now have a "communication center" in my kitchen, it has opened up other areas for reorganization. I am once again excited about my living space.

Spinning Wheels

I've recently returned from a vacation to North Carolina with a dear childhood friend (KBM). We've known each other since we were 5 years old. From schoolmates to roomates we have turned into travel mates, having been to the west coast, the east coast and over the pond to Spain and London. It's always a giggled filled time when we adventure together.
Our travels this time brought us to an area closer to her home, along the Carolina coast; an area called The Outer Banks. A beautifully authentic area, my greatest delight was the small island of Ocracoke. A whisper of a town I wiggled my way in and out of boutique stores and tasty restaurants, fluffy (windy) beaches and little water ways lined with stilted homes. One of my favorite spots was on the seat by the window at the Ocracoke Coffee Company, munching on a delicious bagel, cappucino in hand under a spot of sunlight. It was an easy and relaxing morning for sure!

One of my must dos on the trip was to rent bicycles and ride around an island. KBM was up for my request and there we were at The Slushy Stand renting our bikes. Wheels spinning we headed out on the road past sailboats, cemetaries, candy stores, and girlie shops. We even parked our bikes to check out a lighthouse and some light hiking in a nature reserve.

Our wheels kept spinning as we left Ocracoke. This time we were on our way to Hatteras to see the nation's tallest lighthouse passing through coastline on the right and sand lining the sound on the left. Moving north, we stopped at intervals to dig our toes in the powdery sand while being blown away by the gale winds. I never knew I could find so many particles of sand up my nose, in my ears, and on my scalp. The seashells were large and evidence from the depths of the ocean. Encountering wind and kite surfers lining the shower we skipped in our step when one surfer asked us to help him land and catch his kite. Moving through small villages and spots along the beach, we eventually landed at our hotel in Kill Devil Hills.

We woke with the sun to travel further north for an exciting adventure that awaited us. First, a quick walk towards the blast of the ocean behind our hotel. Lined with wooden fences and sun glaring in our eyes, it was a lovely way to wake up for a new day. Off we went to one of our trip's highlights; Corolla Beach Jeep Tours. Wild descendants of the Spanish Mustang roamed freely and we were hoping for the occasional sighting. Unfortunately, we were not so lucky but flying along the beach in a 4 wheel drive, we were entertained by petrified wood, the line of sand far reaching towards the state of Virginia, the confusion of a poorly developed map causing us to get somewhat lost, and the hilarity of getting stuck on a sand dune requiring us to be rescued by three strong men.

Heading home we stopped off for a climb up the Jockey's Ridge Sand Dunes for beautiful views of the ocean and sound. Toes massaged by the soft sand the expanse of the dunes made us envision a journey to the Sahara desert. Thankfully, we found our way back to the parking lot. One last stop to Roanoke Island's Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, arriving just 5 minutes before the museum closed. Thankfully the nature trail was still open so we pretended to be the first settlers and followed a path with clues allowing us to imagine the difficulties the explorers would have encountered in making a new home on this land, particularly when it came to learning for the Native Americans of that time.

The second part of our trip was in the opposite direction toward the Blue Ridge Mountains which line the Appalachian Mountains to a city called Asheville where America's Largest Home was nestled in the vast estate property belonging to the Vanderbilt family. They called it The Biltmore. Surrounded by trees, the estates yard was designed by the same landscaper who created New York's infamous Central Park. The home was gilded with European treasures and carefully designed architecture that left our mouths hanging. A beautiful garden lay to the side of the home, complete with a small lake and waterfall. A beautiful sight indeed!

The remaining part of my visit was exploring a closer area where KBM lives, particularly the historical college campus of UNC in Chapel Hill. Meeting her friends and indulging in special treats made my last day of vacation a joy. Carolina girls are perhaps some of the nicest people I have ever met (beyond Michiganders, of course).

Traveling with KBM is always a delight. And, in our true nature as expressionists, it wouldn't be vacation without over 1,000 photos between us. Until our next trip, I have beautiful memories to keep me inspired for the days ahead.

Keeping Sabbath

I'm a "To Do List" kind of girl. I have difficulties with putting everything down, letting them be, and simply just stopping in life to breathe and listen to God's whispers. I usually have a "to do" list for that, too. First, listen to a sermon, then pray, then journal, then... and the list goes on. But, to actually STOP, rest, and rely on Him solely, that's a tough one. I recognize this discipline is my challenge so I'm adding it to my list. LOL! Ok, another to do list, I know.

A couple times in the last month or so, I haven't had plans on my Friday or Saturday which in some ways as a single girl is the downfall of a flailing social life. But, in others it's a blessed event. I do all the chores I normally would do on a Sunday on my Saturday so by the time Sunday comes along, I have more time on my hands than I know what to do with (unless I'm checking stuff off my to do list). This weekend was one of those times. Thankfully, I already knew I had plans on Sunday so intentionally did chores on Saturday but boy did it feel good!

On an additional note, I think keeping Sabbath also falls under my goals of decluttering and simplifying my life. It's a day of much less worry, clutter, and complexity. I'm all for the simplicity it offers.

It's Mother's Day today. My brother, sister-in-law and I are celebrating. No, I'm not a mom to a human child but I have Lucy. In their eyes, I'm a mom so I get to celebrate this year. Very exciting!

I'm off. Brunch, doggie walk, Star Trek @ IMAX (supposed to be a fabulous movie), and a Mexican dinner. I can't wait!

I'm off to

Mandy Moore

Random thought...

A friend of mine says of the celebrities out there, I look a little bit like Mandy Moore.



Hmmm... I'll take that.

Skydiving

As if!
I would never jump out of a plane (unless I was forced and had a quality assured, top of the line parachute on my back). Although, I randomly daydream of being an airborn/freefalling acrobat. Now, wouldn't that be something to brag about?

Ever have one of those really tough days at work that makes you question what your real purpose in life is? This question usually pops up in my mind when something at work happens that doesn't sit well with me. I had one of those days yesterday. There's no blaming of people or tasks, just the accumulation of the situation and the lack of realizing my true purpose. In this respect I seem to be on the Route 66 of living a life of purpose.

So, I ask myself "What is the color of my parachute?".

A Bible verse comes to mind:
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future". -Jeremiah 29:11

Lucy

You are my waggy tail, perky eared, treat obsessed, sweet dog who brings me so much joy. I looked a long time for you. During my final visit to the shelter before you came home with me, you were the only one who waited quietly and patiently amongst all the other canines who were freaking out in their cages as I walked by. You were different and seemed comfortable with me right from the beginning. You came to me during a time in my life when I needed companionship and unconditional love.

You've been a part of my life for over 9 months now and every day you greet me exultantly. You are my personal trainer, forcing me to get my derriere off the couch and out on the pavement every day. A natural comedienne, you crack me up and bring me more laughter than I've had in years. Just the thought of hearing you howl (or is that your version of singing) when I sing at high pitches brings tears to my eyes, it is so funny. I love the way you play with your pals at the park and your obsession to follow strangers who have treats in their pockets. You demonstrate how truly obedient you REALLY can be!

No husband, no children yet, but I have you! And you make me happy!

Baby Quilt: The Fabric

I'm getting ready to welcome a new baby nephew and I couldn't be more excited about this. I've decided the one gift I would LOVE to give this baby is a personally made quilt to wrap him up in and make him feel loved. The only problem is that I've never quilted before. I can sew with a machine and I'm generally pretty crafty, so why not try.

I've finally picked out the fabrics I'm going to use. It took quite awhile but I had fun evaluating the colors and trying to figure out which pairings to commit to. I think I have a decent selection that will grow with him (nothing on it says "baby" so even as a 3 or 4 year old, he may still enjoy being wrapped up in it).

Now, I just have to figure out what are some of the best techniques and tips to actually put this thing together.

Dyson DC25

I'm in LOVE!
He's strong, consistent and comes with a warranty. His name is Dyson and he's an "animal". He's purple and rolls with a ball, allowing him to be flexible and get to all those hard to reach spots. I've been the lucky receiver of 3 hand-me-down vacuums in my adult life and have finally invested in a new one to call my very own. This partnership will aim conquer all the cluttered dust, grime, and dirt, making my rooms more beautiful and comfortably homey.

He sucks! I used him for the first time today and was in complete awe to see the immediate effects. Completely grossed out, the bin began to fill with dog hair, my hair, dust, and who knows what else. BLEAH! Upside, my carpet is whiter and I have a newfound sense of "aaaaahhhhhhh".

This weekend, we will have another date and will delve deeper in our relationship cleaning the house.

Dyson is a step toward decluttering and simplifying my life.

Running like a girl

I have a tendency to run like one, but I take pride in that. I certainly wouldn't want to run like a boy. That would require a sex change and, um, that's of no interest to me. Besides, girls look better in running skorts and the t-shirts are cut better. Plus, our running hats come in more colors, like pink!
I'm probably the world's slowest runner (no, seriously!). It sounds weird, I know, but I don't do races to race other people. I generally race against my own goals, like completing the race. A few years ago, I decided to train with Team in Training (to benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society). I was able to complete 3 half marathons over a couple years. It was probably one of the most rewarding and empowering experiences I've ever had.
I've done smaller races since then (mostly 5Ks) but as I was building my "40 List" the desire to do another one came over me. Of all the races I've been hearing about that seem feasible and fun-filled is the Disneyworld race. After sharing this idea with KBM and KDF, they both showed interest in doing it with me. The idea of Disney characters cheering me on and having a Donald or Mickey or even a Tiara (Princess Half) medal is very appealing. Anyhow, after some discussion and keeping in consideration that they require a 16 min. mile pace, we are considering on running it in about a year and 3/4 from now. It's awhile, but considering that I am the slowest runner right now, it is needed time.
The challenge now is to find a good training program to follow.

On your marks, get set...

Following Faith

^{A big part of my life journey is growing deeper in my relationship with God. To some who are not believers, this is a big idea and probably one that is difficult to grasp, but I'm a believer. I'm a Christ follower. I love my God.
He is my comfort, my peace, and I draw strength from His word. Perhaps this sounds odd to some, but to me, I am more balanced and less lost when I am connected with Him. He inspires me to be a better person; more compassionate, honest, joyful, forgiving, and fearless.
I'm not perfect, in fact, I'm incredibly flawed, often to my dismay. But, He is perfect. So, why not follow One who is perfect than to follow all the imperfection of this world.}

Your love, O LORD, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies. -Psalm 36:5

Strawberry Walnut Salad

*****
1/2 bag of mixed greens
thinly sliced fresh strawberries (as many as you want)
dried cranberries
handful of walnuts

Wash and dry greens. Slice strawberries. Place first three ingredients in a bowl. Toss. Toss in walnuts before eating to maintain fresh crunch.

Delicious and healthy!