Sticking To It

Have you gotten your seasonal flu vaccine yet?

I've had several people ask me what I think about the flu vaccines (both seasonal and H1N1). Having worked in healthcare and emergency preparedness for years, I'll be the first to admit that I'm biased. From a public health perspective, I am all for getting vaccinated and doing our small part to help protect ourselves and minimize the spread of disease. I remember being hospitalized as a child with the Russian flu and would like to avoid the same experience with my own child. At the same time, I appreciate that the choice should be personal and left up to individuals.

Please, make it a priority to take the time to review the facts and then do what you feel is right for you and your family. The West Coast Wagners have all been "stuck". Little Miss didn't even notice and was just excited about the Dora band-aid.

There you have it folks, that's my opinion and I'm "sticking" to it.

Market Fresh

One of my favorite things about Summer and the small town in which we reside is the weekly Farmer's Market. I simply adore it.

In addition to people-watching, street musicians, and a festival-like atmosphere, the bushels and baskets of fresh, organic produce are dreamy. Today's purchases included cherry tomatoes, a sweet cucumber, leafy green spinach, fingerling potatoes, carrots, zucchini, a sweet onion, fresh corn, strawberries, and a bag of roasted hazelnuts. We can't forget the soft whole wheat pretzel we snacked on while shopping. I look forward to that tasty treat each time we go!

The only thing better would be the ability to grow and make all of this ourselves. Then again, that would take a lot of time...dirt...and work (Not to mention actually having a green thumb and extra land). While we are planning to attempt a small garden next year, we'll always look forward to our local Farmer's Market visits!

Blog On

Some may wonder if bloggers are going to go by the wayside now that Facebook has become the "in" trend. I sure hope not. Blogging is a great way to document a family journal, express opinions and exercise creative thinking.

One of the best benefits of participating in the blogging community is exposure to a number of creative ideas. For example, I discovered that even dish soap could look pretty from a post shared by Kelly at Sketching Life. I found a similar bottle at Bed Bath and Beyond and vava-voom, our soap looks sophisticated!



I enjoy trying recipes that the Pioneer Woman shares on her cooking blog, including this delicious Bolognese Sauce (i.e., "Spaghetti Sauce" for us simple-folk). I've had fun checking out the cake creations at Jessicakes (and can't help but envy Jessica's new found talent).

Since I started blogging, I discovered Etsy, a website where people can sell their homemade goods. Being that I'm not the most crafty of gals, I'm more in tune with being a "buyer" from this site. Specifically, I really like briar.claire, a seller who makes the cutest girls hair clips. I bought a few for our Little Miss and will surely be buying more.
Most importantly, I've learned about specific prayer needs through blogging. Prayer requests from complete strangers and yet real people with real needs. Our family was so blessed by the many prayers that were uttered on our behalf when our Little Miss was born, many from people we've never met. It's now our turn to pay it forward.

Blog on friends!

Sooie, Sooie…Here Pig!

Is it just me or is it getting even harder to follow the news these day? As if the failing economy itself hasn’t been enough to keep our nerves on end, we now have the swine flu to contend with. Swine flu? Had anyone even heard of such a thing before this past weekend?

Yet again, my addiction to keeping up with current events has me in knots. It’s easy to forget that the regular flu has already killed thousands this year alone. While we should all be cautious and take proper precautions, we also need to keep things in perspective (has anyone else been tempted to run out and buy face masks before they are out of stock?).

Regardless of the fact that I have to remind myself on an hourly basis of a few key life verses (Phil 4:6-7,"Be anxious for nothing..."), I do believe that we can find some encouragement in all of this.

Jesus said, “But when you hear of wars and commotions, do not be terrified; for these things must come to pass first, but the end [will not come] immediately…Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom…And there will be great earthquakes in various places, and famines and pestilences; and there will be fearful sights and great signs from heaven." (Luke 21:9-11)

God is faithfulling fulfilling His promises. I believe He is showing us yet another sign of the end times. Even if the swine flu fizzles out, other disease and trials are inevitable. Jesus alone, in His redemption and grace, has offered to save us. Have you accepted His offer? If not, why wait?

...now…is that my throat hurting?...A cough I hear?...Could it be???

Trendsetting Favorites

As you've heard before, I'm notorious for having a lot of favorites. For example, if you were to ask me what my favorite color is I'd immediately say, "Red. Definitely red." A minute later I'd change my mind and say, "Oh wait, I really meant green. It reminds me of nature." Get my drift? Thus, with that disclaimer, here are a few of my "current" favs:

I love my new Haflinger house shoes (a.k.a., slippers). They may not be beautiful but they sure are comfy. I'm not one for wearing shoes in the house and I relish the opportunity to give my feet their freedom as soon as I enter the door. At the same time, I'm not a fan of going barefoot so these slippers are perfect for me. My toes get room to move and my arches still get supported. There is one slight problem however...

They have an "indoor/outdoor sole". While my intent is to "solely" (no pun intended) wear them inside, they have a bit more support than normal slippers which led me to completely forget I wasn't wearing shoes as I rushed out the door with our Little Miss this morning on our way to...


Another favorite of both the Little Miss and I. Our girl absolutely adores going to her gymnastics class each week and loves playing on the uneven bars and beam. I like that they design their curriculum to develop the kiddo's confidence level and that they incorporate music. Of course, there is a problem with The Little Gym as well. It's located right next door to another recent finding of mine...


Le Patissier, a delicious and authentic French bakery with adorable decor (don't you love the white tablecloths, pink striped walls and black/white toile drapes?). I intentionally avoided this place at first, not wanting to give the pounds of butter in the croissants any opportunity to add themselves to my thighs. The downfall happened about a month ago when I had a work-related meeting scheduled there.

I am wise enough to avoid this scrumptious bakery most of the time. Today however, after Little Gym and with the stylin' slippers still on my feet, Little Miss and I just had to make the stop. The bakery was busy with customers so if you happen to see people in our area wearing Haflinger slippers out and about, know that the trend started with Yours Truly.

A Good Read

I just finished reading Frank Peretti's novel "Monster" and would highly recommend it. I've always enjoyed Peretti's books and this one certainly kept me on the edge of my seat. If you're looking for a good read and haven't already checked this out, try it. I think you'll like it.

Planning to be Random

I was "tagged" by my friend Sam a few weeks ago and was asked to post 7 random facts about myself. Since I'd already confessed 6 random quirks in a prior post and didn't know how much more you all could stand to know about me, my initial temptation was to pretend like I just missed the request. However, since Joani, Janelle and Mel have all faithfully followed through, I figured I too would jump on the band wagon. Here you go, 7 random facts:

1) I have a hard time being random.
It wasn't only that I'd already posted those quirks, I also just plain had a hard time coming up with random facts. I'm a "planner" by nature. I get paid to manage a team of project managers and large projects. What do project managers do? We plan. This request to share random facts has just reiterated my need to plan as I've had to ponder ideas for weeks now. Speaking of planning...

2) I really enjoy planning parties and surprises for others.
Coordinating events, including coming up with the details (a theme, decorations, and food) is something I truly enjoy. I much prefer to do this for others than to have it done for me. I think it's because this is one way my (limited) creative side can be exercised. Party planning does have it's downfall though because it often brings to light one characteristic that I struggle with...

3) I have a tendency to be somewhat of a perfectionist.
I can go detail-overboard. I don't expect perfection in everything, and try not to put that expectation on others, but I can be hard on myself in certain areas. The best example I can give is when I finished my thesis. Many graduate students have to do a number of re-writes before they are approved. Since I was so thorough in reviewing my drafts, by the time I presented, my graduate committee had no corrections. It wasn't that I was a genius, it was that I can be anal retentive. That leads me to another quirk...

4) Color coordinating is very important to me.
While I am far from a fashionista, "matching" is something I'm a stickler about. This crazy need relates to both clothing and decorating. Poor Mr. Wagner doesn't even attempt to pick out an outfit for our Little Miss for fear that it will not meet my color coordinating standards. However, being that one of my first memories of my husband-to-be was of him wearing a mismatched plaid shirt with striped shorts, his cautionary approach may not be such a bad thing. Speaking of my main man...

5) I had a crush on my hubby for a long, long, long time.
Ok, so this isn't new news for most of you. It was actually the same day that he was wearing the mismatched outfit that he first caught my attention. We were at a church picnic playing beach volleyball with a group of friends. The rest is history (about 7 years later!)...

6) I can be stubborn.
Some may think that I must be extremely patient to have waited for Mr. Wagner that long. In actuality, those who know me well can tell you it's probably more likely the fact that I can be a little stubborn (a quality inherited from my dear, sweet Dad). Once I realized that Mr. Wagner had the qualities God had laid on my heart for a husband, I knew he was worth the wait (so yes, I did have one very short season of dating someone else during that time but let me remind you again, I did have 7 years to fill. Elizabeth Elliot didn't even have to wait that long!). And...

7) I completely love being a wife and mom.
The wait was more than worth it. A day doesn't go by where I'm not reminded of just how blessed I am to be Mrs. Wagner and together, how incredible it is to have the joy of parenting our Little Miss. There are no words that could fully describe just how thankful I am for my husband and child. I'm so glad I have a lifetime to do my best to try to show them.

Pushing Daisies

I have a confession to make. I've given into two things recently for which I am normally diametrically opposed: 1) Theme Rooms and 2) Craft Projects.

While I am all for having a few "like" items in a room, decorating with a single, obvious theme is not my style (For those of you who like that sort of thing, I mean no offense. I've seen a number of very cute and tasteful theme-oriented rooms. My bias is focused on my own home). This phobia may stem from the fact that as I was growing up, ceramic frogs were everywhere in our house (was that really popular in the 70s/80s?). My view has also been influenced by the strawberry items that adorned the clothing store my mom owned. Whatever the cause, themes are something I've always avoided. Until now.

We recently converted our guestroom into a guest/playroom. Along with this change came the need to redecorate. I wanted something fun for our Little Miss and yet not too over-the-top so as to annoy our guests when they are visiting.

Mistake #1: As I was pondering the plan, I had the atypical urge to complete a craft project. I'm going to blame my friend Joani for this one. She's often doing amazing crafts. Since I can't sew beautiful quilts like her (I'm lucky to sew on a button), I decided I'd try a collage of sorts.

Mistake #2: I made the trip to a local craft store. After I recovered from the culture shock of entering into that abyss, I found just what I was looking for: colorful paper with a variety of complementary designs ("fabric"), a glue stick ("thread"), and a daisy-shaped paper punch ("pattern"). While it was simple to construct, my own husband and mother didn't believe me when I told them I'd made it (not too surprising considering they both know me well).

This picture alone didn't constitute the theme room. I fear I may have crossed the boundary when I ordered this from Potterybarn Kids (Mistake #3). It was in the same colors of the room AND had a daisy to boot so I couldn't resist (For those of you who look closely, yes, I could have made this too. As I told you however, the craftiness was fleeting).

I think our Little Miss is going to enjoy this new room. To all our future house guests, please accept my apologies in advance if the decor leaves you dreaming of pushing daisies.

It's Officially Here!

Summer, oh how I love thee. Welcome my friend. Your sunny days and clear skies have been truly missed. When I think of you, I envision beautiful flowers (not in our yard obviously) and my mouth waters as I imagine the yummy scent of meat grilling on the BBQ. We have a lot of dates planned, you and I. I'm looking forward to picnics in the park, camping trips, hiking and mountain-biking, berry picking and eating, riding my horse, swimming in the neighborhood pool, and maybe even water skiing at the lake.

What are your favorite things about Summer?

(Usually) Do Everything Without Complaining

I'm not one for complaining. I can't remember ever having sent back food that I ordered, even if it was cold (granted, I've not been the victim of a meal served with a bug or human appendage visibly floating on the surface). Bad waiters/waitresses? I still leave a decent tip. If someone were to cut in front of me in a long line, I'd grumble to myself, and maybe to whomever is with me, but I wouldn't say a thing to the actual offender.

Today however, I admit...I tattled.

Hubby has had to listen to my grumbling on a daily basis for the past week. The first thing he's been hearing out of my mouth when he walks in the door hasn't been a welcoming "Hi Honey, how's your day been? Dinner's on the table. I love you. Can I help you take your shoes off? Bring you anything to drink?" (Wait, let's get real. Even on my best of days, I'd have to be heavily medicated for all those words to pass through these lips at any one time).

Instead, Mr. Wagner has been bombarded with "is IT still there?" and an "Ugh!!!" after he responds affirmatively.

I didn't want to do it but my mind kept ruminating on thoughts of the expensive, monthly "home owners association fees" that our neighborhood is charged for just these sort of things. I finally caved. Yes, I confess, it is I who submitted a "confidential covenant rules violation form" (i.e., I complained).

Dear Neighbors, I really am sorry and don't mean any ill feelings. It is a pretty color of blue. It's just not meant for your front door (at least not when the rest of us have to follow the "approved" earth-tone color scheme).

If you truly like it, please don't let my opinion interfere with your creativity. Keep it if you must. I'll turn my cheek and look the other way. After all, it's not like you painted it bright green and yellow.

Remembering Our Heroes

This Memorial Day, we would like to say “thank you” to all the veterans and public servants who have sacrificed their time, families, health, and even their lives, to faithfully serve our country.

Pause for a moment and put aside thoughts of the seemingly-never-ending presidential election. Forget differences and Republican vs. Democrat titles. Let’s get back to “United We Stand” and remember those who have and are still serving our country.

Obama, Hillary and McCain, please take a seat. Today is a day to honor our “every day” heroes. In the military or in public service, we thank you.

Photo courtesy of www.ace-clipart.Com

Birthday Scrooge has a Change of Heart

Sometime after my 20th birthday I turned into the "Birthday Scrooge". While I always enjoyed celebrating the day when I was younger, as I've gotten older I'd much prefer to surprise others on their birthdays (Maybe it's because that also means they are the ones turning another year older?).

Yes, today is THE day, I am officially another year older. Before you ask, no, I am not going to tell you what "year" that is. And for those of you tempted to leave it in the comments, just remember, I have the power to "delete" you and I'm not afraid to use it. Ha, ha.

The good news is that miracles of all miracles, I'm not feeling like a Birthday Scrooge today. I had a busy week so it helped that I didn't even have a chance to think about ways to avoid today. Plus, my team at work made sure that I couldn't hide when they decorated my office. The biggest reason I'm not feeling "Scrooge-like" today is that my dear sweet Mr. Hubby was kind enough to let me sleep in. He woke with our Little Miss and went into work late just so I could catch a few extra zzz's. I am so grateful and that alone is making this a great day.

I did have one revelation after all the phone calls this morning...my family needs vocal lessons. Simon would have a hay-day critiquing them; American Idols they are not. Regardless, I love 'em and wouldn't trade the off-key, squeaky squeals for anything. Thank you all.

Signs of Spring

If any of you are like me, now that it's March you are counting down the days to Spring. Literally. Thankfully we got a brief taste of the sun in late February when we had a few days of uncharacteristically nice weather. God was being merciful because in the Northwest, the rainy season is often like the Energizer Bunny, it keeps on going...and going...and going. God knew I was ready to squash that silly Wabbit.

As grumpy as I may sound, I do really enjoy this time of year. The transition from Winter to Spring is a welcomed colorful change. Who doesn't appreciate the sight of tulips and daffodils sprouting and cherry blossoms blooming? Love it, I do. Oh wait, there is one problem with these "signs" that seems to get me every year (other than allergies). They also mean that I am turning another year older soon. Back to grumpy I go. Where is that Wabbit anyways?!

Photo courtesy of www.freefoto.com

6 Random Quirky Things

Joani, one of my favorite gals, "tagged" me on her blog to write six random, quirky things about myself. I didn't realize how strange I really am (no comments necessary) until I started writing these down. I'm sure I could keep going but the game only asks for 6 items so that's all you're gonna get:

1. I do not like crumbs in my milk (or tea, coffee, hot chocolate…pretty much any liquid I’m drinking for that matter!). You know how people like to “dunk” cookies, doughnuts, biscotti, etc. in their drinks? That’s all fine and dandy but the fear of left-over slimy crumbs in the bottom of the glass prevents me from dunking anything (thanks to Hubby for reminding me of this quirk when he put crumbs in my tea the other night…on purpose, can you believe it?!)
2. I’m a news junkie. I have a slightly obsessive need to know what’s happening around the world and locally. I don’t read the detail under every story but do check online news sites (www.cnn.com, etc) a couple times a day to read the headlines and key news stories. I think the addiction stared post-911. I used to be an avid newspaper reader but have now gone “paperless”.
3. I’m a picky public restroom connoisseur. I don’t like to “go” just anywhere. I like when restaurants or stores have really fancy bathrooms. You know, the kind that actually have separate little “rooms” instead of stalls, where you have your own individual sink and real, clean and fresh towels? That’s quality at it’s finest. Of course, I’ve only been to a couple of places with bathrooms like that in my lifetime to date, but I’d “go” back to them all! Thankfully, if I’m in another country, I’m much more lax about this quirk (I’ve done my time on plenty of “squatty” pots in China and Europe and managed just fine).
4. I leave myself voice mail messages as reminders. If I’m driving in the car and can’t write something down, I’ll call my voice mail at home or work and leave myself a message with a reminder. The super quirky part about that is that I always, always, always unconsciously end the message saying “thank you”. Why in the world would I need to thank myself when I’m leaving myself a reminder? I know, weird.
5. I could be considered borderline germaphobic. I try to always use a paper towel to open a public restroom door on my way out (after washing my hands of course!), I use hand sanitizer whenever possible after shaking people’s hands (however if I know the person well, I don’t typically feel the overwhelming need to clean my hands post-shake. Strange differentiation, eh? As if knowing someone personally makes any difference to the germs!). I’m not super obsessive about all of this but am definitely “overly cautious,” especially after spending 2+ months with the Little Miss in the NICU (where you have to disinfect everything and be extra careful about washing up). I think this behavior also ties back to the picky public bathroom quirk above.
6. I don’t like the smell of an open bag o’ Doritos. Worse yet is smelling someone’s breath who just finished eating Doritos and a PB&J sandwich. Doritos and peanut butter do not make for minty fresh breath! This random quirk is thanks to my dear, sweet, older Bro who loved eating both when we were growing up. Of course, he also enjoyed breathing on his innocent sister afterwards (thanks Bro! I will get you back someday!).

OK, no more confessions out of me. Now, onto other friends! Here's a "tag, you're it!" to Dani, Liz and Tim to post 6 random, quirky things about themselves on their blogs. Don't worry, if you choose not to respond (or have already done this in the past), I won't be offended.

P.S. Joani, don’t let Mark tease you too much. As you can see, I too have the need to check several blogs almost daily!

Slowing Dowwwwnnnnnnn...

Is anyone else feeling the rush of the Christmas season? I have to confess that this week, I'm guilty of giving into the overwhelming feelings of stress. It's not that I've been busy trying to make our home look like this (wouldn't that be lovely?!):


Instead, it is the stress of normal L.I.F.E. In one week, our small family has had one job interview, 3 doctors appointments and 2 Physical Therapy appointments all on top of our normal daily activities and work. Add preparing for the upcoming holidays, needing to clean a messy house and dealing with a backlog of laundry and "POOF!" my brain cells start to vaporize. All of you moms out there with more than one kiddo, I don't know how you do it this time of year. I have total admiration for each of you.

All this "busy-ness" has reminded me to step back and sit quietly for a moment. To listen to what Jesus really wants us to reflect on during the holiday season. To remember that Christmas really is about Him coming in human form, as a child born to the virgin Mary, to later die on the cross and be raised up again so that we may have eternal life.

I still have a lot to get done before Christmas approaches (I'm always such a procrastinator when it comes to Christmas shopping). I'm sure I'll continue to have moments of anxiety due to all my "to do's". Many of you are probably feeling likewise. Even in all of this, let's do our best to remind each other to slow down, focus on Jesus and enjoy this holiday season.

It's Game Day!

Our apologies to the millions of readers that we have out there in blogsphere (ha! ha!). We really haven't gone away, we've just been busy like everyone else with the Thanksgiving holiday. Honestly, I'm also suffering from a bought of writer's block. I haven't exactly recovered from the block but we did want to recognize the big "Civil War" game today.

One of our nearest and dearest friends, Jack, is an avid Duck fan (don't hold that against him, other than that, he's next to perfect!). Since Jack is so important to us, we've really been trying to feel sympathy for the Ducks this year. To go from being ranked #2 in the nation to losing their starting...and 2nd string and potentially even their 3rd string...QB's is a serious roller coaster ride and does deserve a little emotional outpouring. So we, along with our Beaver fan friends Robert and Samantha, even walked into a Duck store last weekend to buy Jack a birthday present. It was painful, but we made it happen. It wasn't hard to find a cheezy gift there. Take a peek:

Here's our Little Miss with Jack's present. Poor girl, notice the look on her face? She's thinking "Mom! WHY am I holding this thing? The colors are just so wrong! Who would choose that tone of green and yellow? Yuck!"

More..."I can't do this. I'm soooo embarrassed by the 'O'. Cover it up, cover it up!"
Well Jack, we tried. Guess the Little Miss is just too smart to pose with a fuzzy "Ducky" stocking. She did have one last thing to tell you though, "Go Beavs!"

(I know I very well may regret this post after the game today but I just couldn't resist. We do love you Jack!)

Thankful for the little things

As Thanksgiving Day approaches I’ve been thinking more and more about the “little” things in life that I’m grateful for. Of course I’m most thankful for God, family, friends, health, our country and the provision of all of our physical needs. I’m thankful to be a wife and mom and daughter. When I reflect back on last November 20th, I’m extra thankful to have our Little Miss home with us as it’s been exactly a year since she was discharged from the hospital.

Even with all of that, I keep being reminded of the less important things in life that bring a smile to my face. It’s these things that I often take for granted and overlook as I go about my day. Here are just a few things that come to mind. I am thankful for:

• Our Garage. It’s so nice to be able to park in a warm, dry place (thank you Hubby for the sacrifice that you make by parking your car outside!).
• Chai Tea. My latest addiction. What a great treat to have a cup of steamy, decaf Chai in the evening while sitting next to the fireplace in a comfy chair, covered with a soft chenille blanket (add Norah Jones playing softly in the background and it would be perfect).
• Drive-thru Coffee Stands. These little businesses are an incredible invention! I so enjoy stopping by the one near our house to order my “soy latte with sugar-free vanilla and hazelnut syrup” (It may be a strange order but I do feel special when the servers have my order memorized. Really, I only stop once…maybe twice…a week).
• Migrating Birds. We get thousands this time of year flying over our house and resting in the fields nearby. I am fascinated by the sounds they make and their meticulous formations. How DO they do that?
• Slow-Cooker Chicken Taco Soup. Yum! Enough said.
• My Bed. I love climbing into our comfy bed at night and snuggling under the down comforter. Webster should have that as the definition of C-O-Z-Y!
• Sweaters. For as long as I can remember, I’ve always had an obsession for soft, warm sweaters. Turtlenecks, cardigans, V-necks or crew-necks. Plain, stripes or patterns. Cashmere (I wish), lambs wool or angora (wait, not angora. I must be allergic because it always makes me sneeze). Sweaters are one clothing staple that I wouldn’t want to do without.
• Elliptical Machine. Odd to be thankful for something that results in sweat and hard work but I am happy that my Hubby agreed to let me get one last year. That way I don’t feel too guilty when I skip my runs because it’s cold and wet outside.

There's obviously a "theme" here. Can you tell it’s been raining and chilly lately? Since it’s almost Thanksgiving, I’ll even sum up the courage to be thankful for THAT. This week.

I admit it...I'm a health freak

Before you read on, I must make a disclaimer. I am a native Oregonian.

We all know that Oregonians are stereotyped as being liberal environmentalists who are health freaks. I don’t exactly have the liberal part down but our family is “environmentally aware” (Meaning that we feel strongly about recycling, reducing waste and caring for our environment. No, we don’t camp out in trees overnight to protect spotted owls). Health freak…well, not entirely (I have a sweet tooth and definitely have poundage to lose as a result)…but yes, I admit I have a slight obsession with healthy eating and healthy living. Isn't the first step to recovery admitting it?


I’d buy all organic, free-range, hormone and antibiotic free, grain-fed, all natural, 100% whole grains, no preservatives (etc., etc.) items if healthy food wasn’t so darned expensive. It’s frustrating that you have to pay MORE for foods processed LESS, is it not?

I make as much of our Little Miss' food as possible (obviously she must really like to eat since she seems to love my concoctions), try to make sure my family gets plenty of veggies (we still need to improve in that area), usually limit my meat consumption to one time/day or less, have been progressively decreasing the portion sizes of our meat and try to limit red meat to a couple times a month at the most (much to Hubby's dismay).
I’ve always been sort of a health-nut related to nutrition but most recently, I’ve even taken my obsession as far as to try buying environmentally friendly cleaners and all-natural, paraben and sodium lauryl sulfate free beauty products (with the exception of make-up. There are just some things a girl cannot, and should not, give up).
Who knows how long my health freakish obsession will last but for now, we’ll continue to increase our tofu and tempeh consumption (sorry Honey), shop more at the local Co-op, buy the
most highly-recommended organic foods …and be happy that we live in a state where even these changes still leave us feeling “mainstream”.

P.S. There are some things that humans just shouldn't try to live without. Notice the bib that says "I love chocolate" (thanks Mel!). Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants after all!

His & Hers...Enjoying our Differences

I enjoy figuring out how Hubby and I are created "uniquely" as man and woman. Some may say that males and females are the same (with exception of the obvious physical differences). We would beg to differ. Equal in God's eyes, yes, but created with very different characteristics, gifts and roles.

It's been enlightening for us to figure out even the simple differences such as our "tastes" and "likes". For the most part we have very similar tastes so things stand out when we have opposite preferences. For you husbands and wives out there, what are some of YOUR differences? Here are just a few of ours:

"HIS" Favorites - Lots of Pulp OJ, Milk Chocolate, Crunchy Peanut Butter, Strawberry Lemonade, Thick crust pizza, Soft bread, Miracle Whip, Colby Jack Cheese, Mexican Food, Math, Movies: Action and Suspense, TV: How It's Made, Extreme Engineering, Modern Marvels, Store: Home Depot

"HER" Favorites - No Pulp OJ, Semi-Sweet Chocolate, Creamy Peanut Butter, Peach Iced Tea, Thinner crust pizza, Crusty-on-the-outside french bread, Mayo, Provolone, Thai Food, Any-subject-other-than math, Movies: Romantic Comedies, TV: Divine Design, House Hunters and Moving Up, Stores (plural!): Macy's, Anne Taylor Loft, Old Navy, Potterybarn, IKEA....

Regardless of our differences we are so blessed. Thankfully we share similar views for important topics like our beliefs, values, morals and politics. We also love the outdoors and enjoy doing a lot of the same hobbies together. And unlike many couples, we recognize how blessed we are to have many of the same close friends.

So, we will continue to buy "His" and "Hers" orange juice, peanut butter and chocolate chips. We will race to the remote when we both want to watch TV and will humor each other by watching the other's favorite movies. Most importantly, we will continue to enjoy learning more and more about our similarities and yes...even our differences...for as long as we both shall live.

Rain, rain, go away

The rain is officially here. "Good-bye" Summer, "hello" Fall. I know I'm supposed to be thankful for the rain and really, I am, deep, deep down inside (I do thank God for the clean air, green grass, trees and natural irrigation for the harvest season). Superficially though, I am not a fan of rain. Hubby always makes a point of thanking God when it rains and I do agree, yet I confess I often have more of a "grumbling" spirit about it.

It's not that I don't like precipitation. I LOVE snow and all that comes with it (snow-covered mountains and trees, skiing, snowmobiling, snow-shoeing, etc.). Cold, rainy, and windy weather is a different story. Unless I'm inside looking out, snuggled up in a blanket next to a fireplace, I much prefer when it's dry. Hard to believe that I've lived in the Pacific Northwest my whole life eh?

Instead of giving way to my grumbling spirit, I'm going to focus on the beauty that God brings through rain. Like these flowers (speaking of flowers, remember my "not-so-green-thumb"? Well, we now have marigolds in our window-box and yes, half are almost dead. I'm hoping the rain revives them). Oh sorry, I digress, back to my more "positive" outlook.

I will be thankful for the mud puddles that our Little Miss will get to stomp through and the extra laundry that will bring. Oh, again, I digress. Rain, I will be thankful for the streams that are filled and the yellow jackets that are killed (sorry little guys!).

Rain, I will be thankful for football season (I'd like to be thankful for our alma mater's team but so far they are not making us proud). Humpf!!! Being thankful for these large, wet, drops is sure hard today. Guess it's a good thing that I'll have about 5 months of rain to work on that?!