This was a great week. Gracie and I drove to Appleton to participate in a national program call Feed My Starving Children. We assembled packages of nutritional foods, full of vitamins and grains that so many starving people need to live. We were told that wonderful people were initially sending food to these third world countries. Finally, a relief worker said please stop sending these foods. The people receiving the food were in such a progressed state of starvation, that their bodies couldn't process these foods. They would be wasted.
So some wonderful people came up with a formula of protein, vitamins, veggies and grains that will help people in their recovery. We saw pictures of an eight year old boy who weighed less than 20 pounds. After weeks and months of nutrition, we saw his progress. He is now 75 pounds and living a healthy life. In our meager two hours of volunteering, our group churned out enough boxes of food to feed 76 children for an entire year. In two hours! What a terrific experience. And suddenly my high gas and electric bill means not so much.
Another high to my week was some special time with my sister. I picked her up Wednesday. To the cottage we went. With Gracie and her friend, Abby. We were a riot. Listening to 80's music and singing all of the words. Making the younger girls car dance with us. I'm sure we laughed more than we ever have. And the young ones followed suit. I'm pretty sure there was some eye rolling going on, too. But never mind, it was more than we could have ever hoped for. We had the time of our lives!
And then the down. On Friday I watched the news about the horrible tragedy in Colorado. A time that should have been fun and entertaining turned deadly. Tragic. The stories that are starting to surface. Not of the grim gunman, but of the survivors and the those who were killed. What wonderful people. These stories define humanity. Not the sick and sad story of the one who caused the chaos. The focus should be on those who overcome. Those who perform random acts of bravery and kindness. Whether it was holding a hand. Closing a door or reuniting friends and family. These seemingly small acts meant the world to people and in some cases saved lives.
Every week has ups and downs. Some are more significant than others. Some say we need to feel the downs to enjoy the ups. I think there is some truth in this. Of course no one wants anyone to suffer tragedy, but how we react often defines us. This was a week that renewed my faith in the need to help humankind. Whether the help is right here in North America or across an ocean, when we join forces we can make a big and positive difference.
Monday, July 23, 2012
Monday, July 16, 2012
Happy Birthday, Scott
It's a great day here at the De Broux household. It's Scott's birthday. Forty-nine. I don't think he'd mind me telling you. It's a bit of a badge of honor for him. This is a year some say you might want to forget. We say no, actually, it is part of our story. This year has been rough and tough, no doubt. But it is part of who we are.
Amongst all of the anxiety, sadness and uncertainty, there are many bright spots. We have had a constant stream of family and friends visiting and calling us. That kind of support can't be bottled. Even after visitors leave or the phone is hung up, the warmth of the memory stays with you. It is medicine that can't be prescribed.
It's also been a year of realization. My superman is still a hero in my mind. But his physical limitations are greater than they have ever been. It's hard. Probably harder for him than me. It doesn't matter. He still looks the same. He still has the sense of humor that made me fall in love with him. He just can't move mountains like he used to. His strength is on it's way back. It's happening in a slow but sure way. There is no map for this. I can say this, a positive attitude is where it's at.
Gracie and I have done a little makeover on our guy. We've updated his wardrobe a bit. He is not looking 20 something, not even 30 something, but definitely early 40 something. And he smells wonderful with his new cologne on. This day will be a celebration. Of learning to live life to the fullest. Each day. It's a day to realize that there are different kinds of strength. So if we don't answer the phone it's probably because we are partying like rockstars. Please try back later!
Amongst all of the anxiety, sadness and uncertainty, there are many bright spots. We have had a constant stream of family and friends visiting and calling us. That kind of support can't be bottled. Even after visitors leave or the phone is hung up, the warmth of the memory stays with you. It is medicine that can't be prescribed.
It's also been a year of realization. My superman is still a hero in my mind. But his physical limitations are greater than they have ever been. It's hard. Probably harder for him than me. It doesn't matter. He still looks the same. He still has the sense of humor that made me fall in love with him. He just can't move mountains like he used to. His strength is on it's way back. It's happening in a slow but sure way. There is no map for this. I can say this, a positive attitude is where it's at.
Gracie and I have done a little makeover on our guy. We've updated his wardrobe a bit. He is not looking 20 something, not even 30 something, but definitely early 40 something. And he smells wonderful with his new cologne on. This day will be a celebration. Of learning to live life to the fullest. Each day. It's a day to realize that there are different kinds of strength. So if we don't answer the phone it's probably because we are partying like rockstars. Please try back later!
Sunday, July 8, 2012
A Letter To Gracie
This past week we were up at the cottage and did lots of walking down memory lane. Stories were told and laughs were enjoyed. It got me thinking. There is so much I want to tell Gracie. And so on my drive home from my week and a half of bliss, I made a list for her:
Drive no more than five over the limit, baby. This was brought home to me about two weeks ago. Scott and I had just switched from his driving to me taking a turn at the wheel. No further than three miles down the road I was pulled over. For excessive speeding. I got off with a warning. Thankfully. But it brought up a story of days gone by. Of Scott's insurance dropping us after we returned from our honeymoon because of two speeding tickets I had received. Yes, do not follow in your mama's footsteps here.
A good bra is always a good investment. It makes a world of difference. Enough said.
Be sweet. Even when you don't feel like it. When people aren't being sweet and you are, it has a way of speaking volumes. A lot of the time people will rectify their behavior.
Find a mate that is beautiful on the inside. The outside attraction is often the first step. But what's most important is the beauty of the person's soul. I lucked out on this one. Your dad fits the bill on both accounts for me.
Coffee is the nectar of gods. I'm not kidding.
Trust your gut. Your mom is psychic. I trust my gut. Like all of the time. My gut has served me well. It has kept me out of danger. It has helped me with life altering decisions. Trust your gut feeling.
Your heart will break. Someone, a friend, family member or boyfriend will hurt you. Perhaps unintentionally. But guaranteed you will be hurt. Don't let this stop you from opening your heart to people and situations. Here is the truth. The heart heals. If you allow it. And when it heals it is even stronger.
Less is more. Buy good shoes. No, great shoes. They should look nice and feel better. And this costs money. Big money. And speaking of money, be smart. Stay out of debt. Pay your bills and save for a rainy day. There will be rainy days.
Tattoos. Wait. I'm not saying don't get one. That would be hypocritical of me. But wait. And make sure it means something to you. Something that you can live with your whole life.
Find a favorite swear word. I know, I can hardly believe I'm writing this. The reality is that you will need to vent or blow off steam sometimes. So find one that you can live with and that won't gravely offend others. And every time you use it, pay your child one dollar. Hopefully the word won't be used too often.
Finally, please know that I am always here for you. Even when you need to talk to me about something that you know I don't want to hear. Especially then. I don't expect you to be perfect. I'm not. Your dad's not. We know that you will make mistakes. It's how you react to them that makes or breaks you.
One more thing. Do things that make you uncomfortable. Not in a bad way, but a good way. Try new things. Confront the unknown. You will feel and be very brave.
I know there's more. I know that you'll roll your eyes at some of this. And I'm ok with that. You are a strong, smart and beautiful young lady. I know I had a little something to do with that. And this makes me smile.
Drive no more than five over the limit, baby. This was brought home to me about two weeks ago. Scott and I had just switched from his driving to me taking a turn at the wheel. No further than three miles down the road I was pulled over. For excessive speeding. I got off with a warning. Thankfully. But it brought up a story of days gone by. Of Scott's insurance dropping us after we returned from our honeymoon because of two speeding tickets I had received. Yes, do not follow in your mama's footsteps here.
A good bra is always a good investment. It makes a world of difference. Enough said.
Be sweet. Even when you don't feel like it. When people aren't being sweet and you are, it has a way of speaking volumes. A lot of the time people will rectify their behavior.
Find a mate that is beautiful on the inside. The outside attraction is often the first step. But what's most important is the beauty of the person's soul. I lucked out on this one. Your dad fits the bill on both accounts for me.
Coffee is the nectar of gods. I'm not kidding.
Trust your gut. Your mom is psychic. I trust my gut. Like all of the time. My gut has served me well. It has kept me out of danger. It has helped me with life altering decisions. Trust your gut feeling.
Your heart will break. Someone, a friend, family member or boyfriend will hurt you. Perhaps unintentionally. But guaranteed you will be hurt. Don't let this stop you from opening your heart to people and situations. Here is the truth. The heart heals. If you allow it. And when it heals it is even stronger.
Less is more. Buy good shoes. No, great shoes. They should look nice and feel better. And this costs money. Big money. And speaking of money, be smart. Stay out of debt. Pay your bills and save for a rainy day. There will be rainy days.
Tattoos. Wait. I'm not saying don't get one. That would be hypocritical of me. But wait. And make sure it means something to you. Something that you can live with your whole life.
Find a favorite swear word. I know, I can hardly believe I'm writing this. The reality is that you will need to vent or blow off steam sometimes. So find one that you can live with and that won't gravely offend others. And every time you use it, pay your child one dollar. Hopefully the word won't be used too often.
Finally, please know that I am always here for you. Even when you need to talk to me about something that you know I don't want to hear. Especially then. I don't expect you to be perfect. I'm not. Your dad's not. We know that you will make mistakes. It's how you react to them that makes or breaks you.
One more thing. Do things that make you uncomfortable. Not in a bad way, but a good way. Try new things. Confront the unknown. You will feel and be very brave.
I know there's more. I know that you'll roll your eyes at some of this. And I'm ok with that. You are a strong, smart and beautiful young lady. I know I had a little something to do with that. And this makes me smile.
Monday, July 2, 2012
Mornin' Sunshine
Mornin' sunshine is how I start my day. Every day. The alarm goes off. The dogs start to stir. I can read their minds. They are saying, hustle it up lady. We're hungry and we have to pee! Sorry guys. I, too, have needs. I enter my bathroom and can't avoid my mammoth mirror. And on this particular day I am spectacularly beautiful. Mornin' sunshine, I say. To my ponytail that looks like Pebbles from the Flintstones. To my dark circles under my eyes. To my, wait, what is that? I get my reading glasses from the nightstand. I look closer. How is it that a forty-five year old woman has a blemish that big?
On autopilot I turn on the coffee machine. Fill the dog food bowls. Feed the dogs. Hook up the leashes, grab a plastic bag and off we go. And truly it is a beautiful day with gorgeous sunshine. It's a great day to be alive. When we return from our walk, I feel energized and young. I take the stairs two at a time. Until I start hearing this horrible crunching sound. It's coming from my knee. What? Oh yeah, for a minute I forgot my age. I forgot that this knee started making funky sounds a couple of years ago. And now I remember. The doctor said we shouldn't do anything to this knee until the crunching hurts. Well, it's starting to. You aren't 18 anymore, Ann.
To the shower, lotions and potions applied and dressed in comfy clothes, I feel ready to greet the world. I've had my week or so of being a slug. I needed that after school was out. Long cups of coffee. Good Morning America. Live With Kelly. Get off your butt, Ann! But I have to say I needed it. I needed the transition. I've been running so fast and hard this year that a break was long overdue. I love working full time and in the school that I do. But you add in the happenings of my family and I was tired. Just saying. Not complaining.
Now being well rested and excited about the rest of summer, I walk the line of feeling young and living the reality. Middle age is right where I want to be. I'm in good health. I have gray hair. There is a fix for that. I have a few aches. They're minor. She-ra lives on. And I have lots to look forward to. Especially the sunshine that wakes me every morning. And the sunshine I see in the mirror every day.
On autopilot I turn on the coffee machine. Fill the dog food bowls. Feed the dogs. Hook up the leashes, grab a plastic bag and off we go. And truly it is a beautiful day with gorgeous sunshine. It's a great day to be alive. When we return from our walk, I feel energized and young. I take the stairs two at a time. Until I start hearing this horrible crunching sound. It's coming from my knee. What? Oh yeah, for a minute I forgot my age. I forgot that this knee started making funky sounds a couple of years ago. And now I remember. The doctor said we shouldn't do anything to this knee until the crunching hurts. Well, it's starting to. You aren't 18 anymore, Ann.
To the shower, lotions and potions applied and dressed in comfy clothes, I feel ready to greet the world. I've had my week or so of being a slug. I needed that after school was out. Long cups of coffee. Good Morning America. Live With Kelly. Get off your butt, Ann! But I have to say I needed it. I needed the transition. I've been running so fast and hard this year that a break was long overdue. I love working full time and in the school that I do. But you add in the happenings of my family and I was tired. Just saying. Not complaining.
Now being well rested and excited about the rest of summer, I walk the line of feeling young and living the reality. Middle age is right where I want to be. I'm in good health. I have gray hair. There is a fix for that. I have a few aches. They're minor. She-ra lives on. And I have lots to look forward to. Especially the sunshine that wakes me every morning. And the sunshine I see in the mirror every day.
Sunday, June 24, 2012
Her Story
Okay, this is my little play on words. I want to tell you about a little history. Like the history of revolutionary times. Of my history. And of the history that Gracie experienced last week.
My family has always taken trips that involved history. We have been to the east coast and traveled many miles. We have experienced battlefields and museums. We have visited Williamsburg and interacted with people who tell the stories of colonial times. We love this mixture of learning, living and exploration. All three generations of us.
And this brings me to her story. My parents have given Gracie a trip every year for Christmas for the past three years. They have been to New York. They have been to San Francisco. This year their trip was to Boston.
Each year we have encouraged Gracie to take pictures and keep a journal. It is so wonderful to see her trips through her eyes and to focus on her thoughts that she records in her journals. She has her Daddy's photographic eye and her Mama's like to write. What is so cool is that we have been to these places, too. We see her visions and know what she is experiencing because we have been there.
What is unique about her experiences is that she has her own twist on the story. On history. She has seen the same monuments and learns the same information. She takes pictures of things that we have seen. But she has her own time with them. She has walked the same miles, but in her own shoes. She has unique experiences that will form her. She and my folks had a lot of special moments. Not the kind that you schedule.
One particular experience on this trip to Boston really touched me. Gracie and mom and dad had eaten lunch at a fabulous Italian restaurant. They all commented that the food was delicious, but there was too much of it. They asked for boxes for their leftovers. As they walked back to their hotel they passed a shelter for veterans. They decided to stop and offer the shelter their leftovers. This experience forever changed Gracie. The people at the shelter thanked them for their kindness. Gracie has always had a kind heart. I think she was surprised at how a small gesture meant so much. And it made her realize how fortunate we are. It also inspired her to do more.
This wonderful gift from her grandparents was multifaceted. It was a present of the past and of her future. All from history. Gracie's story is touched by so many. By Paul Revere. By Harvard Yard. By the stories of the Revolution. Stories that her family has helped her experience. And they have helped her continue the story of her family. Their desire to pay it forward and be kind to others. Even complete strangers. This has all made Gracie who she is and who she will be. This is her story and I'm so proud to be a part of it.
My family has always taken trips that involved history. We have been to the east coast and traveled many miles. We have experienced battlefields and museums. We have visited Williamsburg and interacted with people who tell the stories of colonial times. We love this mixture of learning, living and exploration. All three generations of us.
And this brings me to her story. My parents have given Gracie a trip every year for Christmas for the past three years. They have been to New York. They have been to San Francisco. This year their trip was to Boston.
Each year we have encouraged Gracie to take pictures and keep a journal. It is so wonderful to see her trips through her eyes and to focus on her thoughts that she records in her journals. She has her Daddy's photographic eye and her Mama's like to write. What is so cool is that we have been to these places, too. We see her visions and know what she is experiencing because we have been there.
What is unique about her experiences is that she has her own twist on the story. On history. She has seen the same monuments and learns the same information. She takes pictures of things that we have seen. But she has her own time with them. She has walked the same miles, but in her own shoes. She has unique experiences that will form her. She and my folks had a lot of special moments. Not the kind that you schedule.
One particular experience on this trip to Boston really touched me. Gracie and mom and dad had eaten lunch at a fabulous Italian restaurant. They all commented that the food was delicious, but there was too much of it. They asked for boxes for their leftovers. As they walked back to their hotel they passed a shelter for veterans. They decided to stop and offer the shelter their leftovers. This experience forever changed Gracie. The people at the shelter thanked them for their kindness. Gracie has always had a kind heart. I think she was surprised at how a small gesture meant so much. And it made her realize how fortunate we are. It also inspired her to do more.
This wonderful gift from her grandparents was multifaceted. It was a present of the past and of her future. All from history. Gracie's story is touched by so many. By Paul Revere. By Harvard Yard. By the stories of the Revolution. Stories that her family has helped her experience. And they have helped her continue the story of her family. Their desire to pay it forward and be kind to others. Even complete strangers. This has all made Gracie who she is and who she will be. This is her story and I'm so proud to be a part of it.
Monday, June 18, 2012
Monday, Monday
So it's the first Monday off for me. Ahhh. I woke up at my regular time. Creature of habit, dogs on a schedule, I had to. We walked further than normal. I came home to a cup of coffee that I thoroughly enjoyed. Right to the last drop.
I'm a bit of a news junkie. I turned on a morning news show. Simultaneously, I checked out a news website online. And this is what I learned. Looks like Greece dodged a financial disaster. A man set a world record walking a wire across Niagra Falls. Rodney King died. And a hockey mom stepped out on the ice to break up a fight that wasn't being handled by the refs. Hmmm.
Then I decided to stretch out on the floor with some yoga poses. This went well until my dogs got hip to what I was doing. Next thing I know I was being slobbered to death. Then my pony tail got stepped on. Scrap the stretching. Note to self. Next time go upstairs and shut the door before stretching.
One of my goals this summer is to clear clutter. This simple girl has a pile of papers to go through. They are neatly diguised on the counter. You may hardly notice them. It's because I've made them look so pretty. They are stacked orderly. Vertically. Like little soldiers. And in the corner. But the jig is up and I'm doing it. It's time. Please don't let me find anything that was important and needed to be addressed last month.
It's time to get back to my basics. The stuff that I base my life on. The simple stuff. And now that it's hot out, and I'm wearing tank tops all the time, there's the constant reminder of my simplify tattoo. Yep, there it is. Keep it simple girl. Don't get bogged down by the clutter. Clean it up and take time to stretch.
I'm a bit of a news junkie. I turned on a morning news show. Simultaneously, I checked out a news website online. And this is what I learned. Looks like Greece dodged a financial disaster. A man set a world record walking a wire across Niagra Falls. Rodney King died. And a hockey mom stepped out on the ice to break up a fight that wasn't being handled by the refs. Hmmm.
Then I decided to stretch out on the floor with some yoga poses. This went well until my dogs got hip to what I was doing. Next thing I know I was being slobbered to death. Then my pony tail got stepped on. Scrap the stretching. Note to self. Next time go upstairs and shut the door before stretching.
One of my goals this summer is to clear clutter. This simple girl has a pile of papers to go through. They are neatly diguised on the counter. You may hardly notice them. It's because I've made them look so pretty. They are stacked orderly. Vertically. Like little soldiers. And in the corner. But the jig is up and I'm doing it. It's time. Please don't let me find anything that was important and needed to be addressed last month.
It's time to get back to my basics. The stuff that I base my life on. The simple stuff. And now that it's hot out, and I'm wearing tank tops all the time, there's the constant reminder of my simplify tattoo. Yep, there it is. Keep it simple girl. Don't get bogged down by the clutter. Clean it up and take time to stretch.
Thursday, June 14, 2012
The Things I Love
This post isn't about the people I love. I don't have enough time or space to accomplish that. This post is about the things that make me smile. On a daily basis. Some are what you might expect. Others are a bit odd. Go figure. So here goes.
Superman blue nail polish. I love the color blue. And I'm pretty sure that when I wear this polish on my toes I have super powers. Just saying.
The smell of coffee greeting me in the morning when I have been wise enough to load the machine the night before and remember to set the timer.
I love when my dog Bailey jumps up on my lap and is one half inch from my face. I then say, well, Bailey, I don't think we could be any closer. And he moves in so that our noses touch. Smart dog.
I love my windows open and the smell of fresh air.
My new fuzzy blanket. Yes, I said it, my blanket. It was only $12.99 and has comforted me and helped me sleep like no other.
Marshall's deals. This store has everything. On sale. And the store on my side of town is always organized. I can find things without digging. Love it.
I love the little stone that a friend bought me that has the word SIMPLIFY painted on it. More than once I have carried this in my pocket. A gentle reminder to stay focused on what's important.
I love riding in cars with heated seats.
I love reading all day and not feeling guilty about it.
I love maple donuts and bacon. Heart attack, I know. I'm just speaking in terms of the occassional treat.
I have to have lip balm. Right now my favorite is the super huge Bonne Bell Lip Smacker in Dr. Pepper. And yes I am 45. Totally brings me back to my teenage years.
Love my sweatpants. Yep. The ones from my daughter's favorite store. Thankfully she's ok with me shopping there. Not so thankfully when she wants to wear them.
So these are a few of the things that bring me comfort and joy. These are the things that in a small way make me who I am. These are small, not expensive and sometimes free. They are also the things that I look forward to. Each and every day.
Superman blue nail polish. I love the color blue. And I'm pretty sure that when I wear this polish on my toes I have super powers. Just saying.
The smell of coffee greeting me in the morning when I have been wise enough to load the machine the night before and remember to set the timer.
I love when my dog Bailey jumps up on my lap and is one half inch from my face. I then say, well, Bailey, I don't think we could be any closer. And he moves in so that our noses touch. Smart dog.
I love my windows open and the smell of fresh air.
My new fuzzy blanket. Yes, I said it, my blanket. It was only $12.99 and has comforted me and helped me sleep like no other.
Marshall's deals. This store has everything. On sale. And the store on my side of town is always organized. I can find things without digging. Love it.
I love the little stone that a friend bought me that has the word SIMPLIFY painted on it. More than once I have carried this in my pocket. A gentle reminder to stay focused on what's important.
I love riding in cars with heated seats.
I love reading all day and not feeling guilty about it.
I love maple donuts and bacon. Heart attack, I know. I'm just speaking in terms of the occassional treat.
I have to have lip balm. Right now my favorite is the super huge Bonne Bell Lip Smacker in Dr. Pepper. And yes I am 45. Totally brings me back to my teenage years.
Love my sweatpants. Yep. The ones from my daughter's favorite store. Thankfully she's ok with me shopping there. Not so thankfully when she wants to wear them.
So these are a few of the things that bring me comfort and joy. These are the things that in a small way make me who I am. These are small, not expensive and sometimes free. They are also the things that I look forward to. Each and every day.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)