When a neighbor gave us a couple of feral kittens, I didn’t have high expectations that they would stick around long. We fed them, let them lounge on our patio furniture, and waited to see if they would “adopt” us. It’s a good think they’re patient. We’ll let you judge from the pictures below whether or not it has worked out. 🙂
She has named this one “Pony.” He’s a very patient kitty.
It’s a good thing these kittens are laid back.
Playing “firefighter” trying to rescue kitty from the tree.
Even Morgan is a fan of the kittens. (They’re not big fans of her.)
We’re working on the term “gentle” with the toddler. Good thing Mena (kitty) is patient.
Retail therapy? More like I need therapy after this retail experience. (image from target-addict.com)
I remember noticing how beautiful the sky was behind the Target sign, and actually thinking to myself, “today will be a successful shopping day.” The automatic doors whooshed open as I entered the store, kid free. I felt good, light on my feet. Being alone will do that to you. I quickly found matching shoes for the girls (for an upcoming wedding), and decided to take a little “me” time to–dare I say–try on a few clothes. I can’t remember the last time I stepped foot in a dressing room. Think…think…think…nope, can’t remember.
As I headed over to hosiery to find some leggings, I passed the clearance bra rack. I backed up. After all, the last one I’d bought had a detachable front. …
The girls with their uncle and new aunt.
When my brother introduced me to his girlfriend Luisa, it seemed very strange. She seemed so…familiar. Had I met her before? No. She was from California, and they’d met on vacation in Mexico. So why, then, did it feel like I’ve always known her? Why did conversation flow so easily? Why did I feel like I could trust her instantly? I don’t know why, all I know is that it’s wonderful. Soon, they’ll marry. My two girls will toss flowers down the aisle, and I will witness my brother marry one of my dear friends.
Their courtship was brief, but no one questioned how quickly they were engaged. Their relationship is completely natural, loving and comfortable. I’ve never seen my brother more happy. He’s relaxed. Smiles come easily. He’s found …
Such a pretty dog, and an integral part of our family.
After years of failed attempts, I finally captured a decent photo of our sweet dog Morgan today. Her all-black coat gives little contrast, meaning most photos were a black blob. But today, the lighting was just right. I was experimenting with my new (to me) camera while playing outside with the girls, and I snapped this picture. I was thrilled. After all, we’re not completely certain how long we’ve got left with her.
Last week, we found out that she had a mast cell tumor growing on her left side. (You can see the shaved patch and stitches in the photo.) This week, we found out her cancer is at Stage 2, meaning it has the potential to grow. While this isn’t the best news, …
No title. No paycheck. Just benefits.
Was it really just six months ago that I walked into my boss’s office, closed the door, and spoke the words I never thought I’d say?
I’m really sorry, but I’m leaving. I’m going to stay home with my girls. It’s just something that I need to do.
I was dreading that encounter, but she was compassionate and understanding. I had to focus on my long-term goals, rather than the short-term awkwardness. Once that was over, I had to tell the girls’ daycare provider. This was perhaps the hardest thing of all. Not only was I taking away a big part of her income, she truly loved the girls. But she understood, too.
Two weeks later, it was just me and the girls (and the occasional babysitter/daycare stay). I don’t think anything …
There it is. My pride and shame. (But mostly, my pride.)
It’s funny how things work out. I’ve long dreamed of seeing my name in print. And I mean real print. The kind that comes hot off the press, and leaves a pulp and ink smell on your fingers. The good stuff.
Today, that happened. I received a package in the mail from MennoMedia. Inside, were two issues of the February 2013 issue of Purpose, a monthly periodical used for worship and personal devotions. Opening up the cover, I saw my name. In the table of contents. Even though I was well aware I’d submitted an article, and that it had been accepted, it still took awhile to process. Was this for real? Yes. Yes it was.
And while my heart swelled with pride, my head …