It is the unspeakable privilege and comfort of all those that are in Christ Jesus that there is therefore now no condemnation to them. He does not say, "There is no accusation against them,’’ for this there is; but the accusation is thrown out, and the indictment quashed. He does not say, "There is nothing in them that deserves condemnation,’’ for this there is, and they see it, and own it, and mourn over it, and condemn themselves for it; but it shall not be their ruin. He does not say, "There is no cross, no affliction to them or no displeasure in the affliction,’’ for this there may be; but no condemnation.-Matthew Henry, Matthew Henry Commentary on the Whole Bible (pg. 1770)
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
It Shall Not Be Our Ruin
"There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." Romans 8:1
Friday, December 24, 2010
He's Here! He's Here!
My nephew, Isaac James, has arrived!
He (finally!) made his entrance at 6:34 pm last night.
He weighed 8 lbs, 4 oz. and measured 20 1/2 inches.
It was a long and hard delivery, but we're so thankful that mom and baby are healthy. Because Isaac had a very high fever at birth, only Amanda held him before he was ushered into the nursery. Mimi, Granddaddy, and Aunt Jessie have yet to hold this precious little baby. His dad got to hold him last night when Isaac finally made it back to their room. You can definitely tell Isaac is my brother's kid - see how he's sticking his tongue out? :)
My parents don't take [good]enough photos, so I'll post more after I've snapped some shots. Ha ha.
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Proud Teacher!
So proud of all my students! Here we are tonight at their Christmas recital!
They're becoming quite the performers. There were 55+ people in attendance tonight, and we enjoyed a potluck dinner together afterward.
They're becoming quite the performers. There were 55+ people in attendance tonight, and we enjoyed a potluck dinner together afterward.
I love my job!
Friday, December 17, 2010
Sweet Words
I haven't had much to say.
There is much to process before it can be said. (Obviously, right?) Really trying to learn how to rest - an incredibly difficult task! (See? I've already made it a checklist thing!)
I know I need to be soaking in Truth. I read this today. It's definitely not "light reading." Oh, but it is sweet reading. I commend it to you!
There is much to process before it can be said. (Obviously, right?) Really trying to learn how to rest - an incredibly difficult task! (See? I've already made it a checklist thing!)
I know I need to be soaking in Truth. I read this today. It's definitely not "light reading." Oh, but it is sweet reading. I commend it to you!
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Family Ties
I miss my sister the most on family days. I want you to feel like you're still a part of the family events, Julia, so I've posted some pictures for you.
This is at Amanda's baby shower last month.
Last weekend Uncle Bob and Kaitlin came to visit. Doesn't K look so grown up? We played Apples to Apples like we always do. :)
Here's Papa with his entourage. ;)
Kaitlin is laughing at an old picture!
Lastly, one with James and Amanda. There were several cameras going, so not everyone is looking.
So glad we were able to Skype today! We miss you so much! Next holiday I'll have pictures of our new nephew to share. :D
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Monday, November 22, 2010
Just a Little Longer...
I want a nap, but I'm terribly afraid that I just might not wake up until Christmas if I allow myself to stop!
That's all I have time to say.
I'm going to try and convince myself to push through.
(Or I might just sleep the day away. Is that an option? Someone say say yes.)
That's all I have time to say.
I'm going to try and convince myself to push through.
(Or I might just sleep the day away. Is that an option? Someone say say yes.)
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Halloween Happenings
I'm finally catching up on blogging!
Last Friday night my piano students participated in a Halloween Musicale. This is the second year Ms. Williams and I have collaborated to pull this together. So much fun! Here are my students (minus two who did not participate).
And here's the whole gang!
There was delicious food. We made mummy fingers (hot dogs wrapped in tortilla strips), strawberry ghosts (dipped in white chocolate), mummy apple pies (raisins for eyes:), and a host of other scrumptious spooky snacks. I think the kids' favorite ended up being the french fries - the frozen bag from Walmart. That will save me hours next year!
The kids drew numbers out of a pumpkin and then performed their pieces in that order.
All my students are soooo cute! I just love them. :D
Of course Ms. Williams and I were dressed for the occasion. She makes a great hillbilly. :) Yes, I know I'm Audrey Hepburn for every costume party, but I'm too busy to go reinventing the wheel. Cut me some slack. :)
Last weekend was one big party. On Sunday, Ty and I went with Gabe and Soph's family to a nearby corn maze. It was a blast! The actual maze only took us 35-40 minutes, but there were tons of other things to do there, as well.
Here's Soph on the hay ride. All of a sudden her hair has gone all wavy. I commented on it, and she said it was going to be curly, "Just like yours, Miss Jessie!" :)
This is me going down a very cool slide. It was quite uncomfortable, too, though you can't tell by my reaction.
And this is the birthday boy. Seven years old!
Gabe and Ty were our fearless leaders. Did I mention they got us through in record time? I love this picture. Gabe is all contemplative. :)
Here we are with all the kids (and a friend of Hannah's on the right).
I love these people. (Actually, I don't know the two in the background.)
There were plenty of snacks to munch on, too. Here the kids are eating fresh corn. I was feeling puny earlier in the afternoon, so Mrs. Cory saved the day by purchasing watermelon slices. Pure iron and water, she said.
We headed home after the corn maze just in time to see these two again - this time in costume!
These guys look familiar. :) Too bad Wesley didn't wear his curlers this time. They really made his "housewife" costume!
Maggie-moo. :)
Here are Grace and Ben on either side of me - looking older than ever! Gracie helped me make all the Halloween snacks for my recital, so it was wonderful to see her. I love watching all my kids grow up and playing even a small part in their lives.
Though I do feel like I'm getting very old...
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Check It!
This is what Erin and I are about to begin learning!
We have plenty of time to prepare for the school concerto competition next fall!
Well...that's actually debatable.
But the winner(s) get to perform with the school orchestra! How cool is that?
Judge for yourself.
We're stoked.
We have plenty of time to prepare for the school concerto competition next fall!
Well...that's actually debatable.
But the winner(s) get to perform with the school orchestra! How cool is that?
Judge for yourself.
We're stoked.
Friday, October 22, 2010
Fall Adventures!
Quick! Thirty minutes of free time! I'm making this a speedy blog! I have things to discover and learn! Mozart Sonatas to pick! I just spent nearly $100 on new Henle edition scores, and I'm stoked. (Yes, this coming from the girl who hates to spend money.) Can't wait for them to arrive! :D
Last night Ty took me to a local pumpkin patch! Afterward we painted a few at his house. Our big purchases are going to be carved on Monday! Oh, how I love this time of year. :) Don't you wish life would slow down so you could enjoy it?
Last night Ty took me to a local pumpkin patch! Afterward we painted a few at his house. Our big purchases are going to be carved on Monday! Oh, how I love this time of year. :) Don't you wish life would slow down so you could enjoy it?
Happy Friday!
Off to practice!
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Just Like Old Times
Today I had a Skype date with Tali Rose.
I sat in my practice room, and she sat at her dining room table.
Well, until I was kicked out to the hall (trumpets are so loud!)
Until she decided to make lunch.
She spent the majority of our conversation stirring this and that over the stove. I watched steam fill the screen, listened to broccoli sizzle; I almost smelled and tasted the spices.
As I sat in a cold hallway amongst strangers, I suddenly felt very near.
Then it hit me: this is how Tali and I hung out all last year.
Many times we'd make dinner "together," which usually entailed Tali throwing this and that into a pan while I sat on the kitchen bench squawking. I'd probably be a better cook if I'd have helped more, but Tali's just so good at multi-tasking. :)
Today was such a pleasant reminder. I am so thankful for simple, sweet moments.
I sat in my practice room, and she sat at her dining room table.
Well, until I was kicked out to the hall (trumpets are so loud!)
Until she decided to make lunch.
She spent the majority of our conversation stirring this and that over the stove. I watched steam fill the screen, listened to broccoli sizzle; I almost smelled and tasted the spices.
As I sat in a cold hallway amongst strangers, I suddenly felt very near.
Then it hit me: this is how Tali and I hung out all last year.
Many times we'd make dinner "together," which usually entailed Tali throwing this and that into a pan while I sat on the kitchen bench squawking. I'd probably be a better cook if I'd have helped more, but Tali's just so good at multi-tasking. :)
Today was such a pleasant reminder. I am so thankful for simple, sweet moments.
Friday, October 15, 2010
Take a Second Glance
How is it that a genuinely kind family has lived just two doors down for nearly ten years without my knowledge? Of course I knew the house was inhabited by relatively nice people. I waved when I noticed them outside, donated to the Boy Scouts when their son came by with goodies, etc., etc. But I never took the time to know them.
Last weekend I baby sat their two children (ages ten and eight) for the first time.
They are some of the sweetest, most polite, and most agreeable children I have ever met.
They were content to just be.
We had fun playing Stratego
(rather, I had fun losing to their mastermind son!),
watching (my dad watch) football
(this is going to be a lonnnng season!),
and eating raw peppers
(a personal new favorite, especially with hummus!).
This led me to thinking:
how many wonderful people have I passed by because I've failed to step outside of my own little life? The kind family two lots over is too close to overlook. The annoying classmate in the next seat is too close to overlook. The weary homeless man on the street corner is too close to overlook.
The list could go on.
I don't want to forget that God's heart beats for people.
Please be patient with me as I learn how to juggle responsibilities and relationships. :)
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Another Early "Morning"
I have been receiving these annoying advertisement messages on my phone. Usually I receive at least ten to fifteen a day. The worst part is that these often come in the middle of the night. Recently I've forgotten to leave my phone on a soft surface at bedtime, so the vibration (it's more like a growl!) sometimes wakes me.
Last night was no exception.
As is my habit, I jolted out of bed the moment I heard my "alarm." This leaves no room for discussion with myself about sleeping an extra hour. I hopped in the shower, got dressed, and checked the time.
It said 23:55.
"Good," I thought, "I'm on schedule."
I was assuming it was 3:55. I'm usually out of the shower in five minutes, so it all made sense. Or so I thought.
A double-take shattered my assumptions; I quickly swapped my jeans and sweater for jammies and hopped back into bed with wet hair. When my alarm went off for real, I hit the snooze.
Last night was no exception.
As is my habit, I jolted out of bed the moment I heard my "alarm." This leaves no room for discussion with myself about sleeping an extra hour. I hopped in the shower, got dressed, and checked the time.
It said 23:55.
"Good," I thought, "I'm on schedule."
I was assuming it was 3:55. I'm usually out of the shower in five minutes, so it all made sense. Or so I thought.
A double-take shattered my assumptions; I quickly swapped my jeans and sweater for jammies and hopped back into bed with wet hair. When my alarm went off for real, I hit the snooze.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Where Has the Time Gone??
Life is in full swing. I can't believe a month of school is gone!
Between practicing, teaching, observing classroom teachers, and attending classes and concerts, I don't have too much free time. I'm really seeking to find balance while at the same time work harder than I ever have. This proves to be quite challenging, but I refuse to give up living life. I'm settling for less sleep as a result. My family and friends have been very understanding. (For instance, yesterday Tyler had to settle for sitting on the couch next to me while I read textbooks.) So far I'm functioning, but this morning I almost fell asleep at the piano. :)
Erin has been bringing a dorm-size coffee maker to school and making coffee in her practice room at 5am. The other day she brought decaf, and I was a happy camper! Why they insist upon freezing us out I'll never know! I dress for winter inside and then sweat the whole way home with no A/C.
I'm so ready for winter! That means Tali Rose comes home, and I get to meet my sweet nephew!
Friday, September 17, 2010
Fridays and Fugues
Boy, am I thankful for Fridays! I had a great 4.2 mile run this morning!
I'm especially thankful for Wednesdays this week!
I had a wonderful piano lesson, and Ty came home! Doesn't get much better. :)
I've been working on Bach's 2nd Partita in C Minor. Two movements down, four more to go.
On Thursday I turned the page to the third movement. While it is a mere two pages, it is going to be a pain in the neck. I love, love, love Bach, but sometimes his music is insanely frustrating to learn! (Scratch that; it's usually frustrating to learn!) Nothing like a fugal movement that starts in measure one with four parts! I decided I should work on the fourth movement instead. :)
I'm just postponing the inevitable.
One of my classmates has played it before, so I asked his opinion; I knew already what his answer would be: learn it voice by voice.
Let me describe the process of learning a fugue.
1. Learn voice one.
2. Learn voice two.
3. Learn voice three.
4. Learn voice four.
5. Put voices one and two together.
6. Put voices one and three together
7. Put voices one and four together
8. Put voices two and three together.
9. Put voices two and four together.
10. Put voices three and four together.
(The word learn here really should read memorize, because that's the only way to guarantee you know each part.)
The Fugue from WTC Book 1 that I played last year was also in four parts. I clearly remember the struggle, but I also remember it was one of the most beautiful pieces I've played. It will be worth it.
But right now I'm only on step one. :)
This is for your listening pleasure (and please appreciate how much care went into creating such a lovely sound).
I'm especially thankful for Wednesdays this week!
I had a wonderful piano lesson, and Ty came home! Doesn't get much better. :)
I've been working on Bach's 2nd Partita in C Minor. Two movements down, four more to go.
On Thursday I turned the page to the third movement. While it is a mere two pages, it is going to be a pain in the neck. I love, love, love Bach, but sometimes his music is insanely frustrating to learn! (Scratch that; it's usually frustrating to learn!) Nothing like a fugal movement that starts in measure one with four parts! I decided I should work on the fourth movement instead. :)
I'm just postponing the inevitable.
One of my classmates has played it before, so I asked his opinion; I knew already what his answer would be: learn it voice by voice.
Let me describe the process of learning a fugue.
1. Learn voice one.
2. Learn voice two.
3. Learn voice three.
4. Learn voice four.
5. Put voices one and two together.
6. Put voices one and three together
7. Put voices one and four together
8. Put voices two and three together.
9. Put voices two and four together.
10. Put voices three and four together.
(The word learn here really should read memorize, because that's the only way to guarantee you know each part.)
The Fugue from WTC Book 1 that I played last year was also in four parts. I clearly remember the struggle, but I also remember it was one of the most beautiful pieces I've played. It will be worth it.
But right now I'm only on step one. :)
This is for your listening pleasure (and please appreciate how much care went into creating such a lovely sound).
Friday, September 10, 2010
Recovery Run
I just ran 3 miles for the first time in seven weeks.
It took me 34 minutes. 10 minutes longer than my good summer runs.
Cringe.
This is a very humbling thing to admit.
But the facts are the facts, and there's no getting around them.
The fact that I actually completed my run is success in my book.
So where do I go from here? I'm back at square one, but I don't intend to stay here. I didn't push myself today, because I'm letting my body tell me how much and how far; slowly I will work back up to a good pace.
Here's the long and short of it:
I am training for a half-marathon in January!
I've decided to make this my recovery race. No rigorous time constraints. Just completion.
Stay tuned.
It took me 34 minutes. 10 minutes longer than my good summer runs.
Cringe.
This is a very humbling thing to admit.
But the facts are the facts, and there's no getting around them.
The fact that I actually completed my run is success in my book.
So where do I go from here? I'm back at square one, but I don't intend to stay here. I didn't push myself today, because I'm letting my body tell me how much and how far; slowly I will work back up to a good pace.
Here's the long and short of it:
I am training for a half-marathon in January!
I've decided to make this my recovery race. No rigorous time constraints. Just completion.
Stay tuned.
Sunday, September 5, 2010
Good ol' Tension
It's a wonderful day.
I'm taking the command to rest quite seriously. I slept in, talked with my sister on Skype, went to church, started a new Sunday school class, took the day off piano practice, made some pita and cucumber dip, caught up on some homework, and walked over to the Madonna's house.
Maggie turns five tomorrow. They've invited me to join them for cake. :)
Can it be nearly five years have passed since I pushed her stroller around the block each week? Wasn't she just that toddler who loved to sit in my rocking chair and make phone calls from our land line? She makes me laugh and melts my heart every time she says "Miss Jessie."
I just can't believe she'll be five. Another unbelievable thing is that Gracie will be TWELVE this week - that makes me feel really old! She seems like she should still be Maggie's age!
It's a strange business, this thing called growing up. How can I feel so young and yet so old?
I often feel caught between childhood and adulthood. My first reaction is to shoo away any tension and search for comfort. That's why, many times, I choose to relive the past or dream of the future instead. Slowly I'm realizing that this tension is a part of growing, and that there is much to learn and love in the present. The past and the future have their places, but I live - present tense - in the here and now.
I don't want to miss what's going on today, what's going on relationally, just because I'm in a busy season. Already I feel as though these college years are eating up so much of my time. I don't want to wake up with a diploma only to find that so many have grown up or moved on without me. I truly want to invest in people and live life alongside those I care for. I'm praying for balance between doing what is required of me as a student and finding time to love on people. After all, relationships are what count in the long run.
Just some Sunday evening thoughts. So thankful for a chance to "live" a little extra this long weekend! I swam with a classmate on Saturday morning. (Did I mention that she also happens to be the girl who placed first in our age-division at my triathlon? I stood on the stand right next to her, and then she just happened to be in one of my classes! It was so funny when we figured that out! Crazy, huh?) I'm loving getting to know her, and we plan to train more together as I recover. Saturday evening I went with Tab and Erin to a school football game - my first time sitting in the student section! We girls had such a blast!
James, Amanda (and baby!) are coming over tomorrow, and then I'm heading to college group in the evening. Hello, applesauce cake! They'll never know it's healthy if you don't tell them...
I'm taking the command to rest quite seriously. I slept in, talked with my sister on Skype, went to church, started a new Sunday school class, took the day off piano practice, made some pita and cucumber dip, caught up on some homework, and walked over to the Madonna's house.
Maggie turns five tomorrow. They've invited me to join them for cake. :)
Can it be nearly five years have passed since I pushed her stroller around the block each week? Wasn't she just that toddler who loved to sit in my rocking chair and make phone calls from our land line? She makes me laugh and melts my heart every time she says "Miss Jessie."
I just can't believe she'll be five. Another unbelievable thing is that Gracie will be TWELVE this week - that makes me feel really old! She seems like she should still be Maggie's age!
It's a strange business, this thing called growing up. How can I feel so young and yet so old?
I often feel caught between childhood and adulthood. My first reaction is to shoo away any tension and search for comfort. That's why, many times, I choose to relive the past or dream of the future instead. Slowly I'm realizing that this tension is a part of growing, and that there is much to learn and love in the present. The past and the future have their places, but I live - present tense - in the here and now.
I don't want to miss what's going on today, what's going on relationally, just because I'm in a busy season. Already I feel as though these college years are eating up so much of my time. I don't want to wake up with a diploma only to find that so many have grown up or moved on without me. I truly want to invest in people and live life alongside those I care for. I'm praying for balance between doing what is required of me as a student and finding time to love on people. After all, relationships are what count in the long run.
Just some Sunday evening thoughts. So thankful for a chance to "live" a little extra this long weekend! I swam with a classmate on Saturday morning. (Did I mention that she also happens to be the girl who placed first in our age-division at my triathlon? I stood on the stand right next to her, and then she just happened to be in one of my classes! It was so funny when we figured that out! Crazy, huh?) I'm loving getting to know her, and we plan to train more together as I recover. Saturday evening I went with Tab and Erin to a school football game - my first time sitting in the student section! We girls had such a blast!
James, Amanda (and baby!) are coming over tomorrow, and then I'm heading to college group in the evening. Hello, applesauce cake! They'll never know it's healthy if you don't tell them...
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Linkin' it Up!
My friend, Matt, is attending Moody Bible Institute and recently started a blog with his thoughts and insights about his experiences there. I've already learned so much just by reading his posts! (It's like satellite seminary or something!)
Particularly of interest to me was his post on Grace. Sweet words to my soul. May they nourish you, as well, as you are reminded of the depths of God's Love.
"Grace means that all the goodness of God is transferred to our account because of Christ! We were chosen before we had any opportunity to do anything - good or bad! (Ephesians 1:4,6)"
Thanks, Matt! Always a great thing being reminded that there's nothing I can do to earn this Grace!
Particularly of interest to me was his post on Grace. Sweet words to my soul. May they nourish you, as well, as you are reminded of the depths of God's Love.
"Grace means that all the goodness of God is transferred to our account because of Christ! We were chosen before we had any opportunity to do anything - good or bad! (Ephesians 1:4,6)"
Thanks, Matt! Always a great thing being reminded that there's nothing I can do to earn this Grace!
Monday, August 30, 2010
Perfect Equation
1 letter from Tali
+1 postcard from Julia
+1 phone call from Kelly
+1 email from Angela
+1 hug from Mommy
+1 hug from Erin
+1 hug from Tab
+1 encouraging text from Ty
+1 sweet student in particular
+69588307543 different prayers offered on my behalf
______________________________________________________________________
A Love Note of infinite value from the Giver of Grace, delivered on a very difficult day
+1 postcard from Julia
+1 phone call from Kelly
+1 email from Angela
+1 hug from Mommy
+1 hug from Erin
+1 hug from Tab
+1 encouraging text from Ty
+1 sweet student in particular
+69588307543 different prayers offered on my behalf
______________________________________________________________________
A Love Note of infinite value from the Giver of Grace, delivered on a very difficult day
I am blessed. So thankful for people who live honestly beside me and align their hearts with mine.
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Blue
This morning I was awakened earlier than normal by a strange and disturbing cry.
I looked at my phone: 3AM. Then I walked out to the kitchen where Blue was sleeping in his crate.
He was crying.
Let me back up. Yesterday I noticed Blue wasn't feeling well. He's had trouble walking for the last six months or so, but recently it had become more laborious for him walk a lot. Yesterday I couldn't get him to get up out of his bed. He messed in the house twice, because he couldn't walk to the back door. In the afternoon I carried him to and from the backyard. The doctor had told us that Blue had a misplaced disc in his back, so we just assumed it was flaring up.
But yesterday I noticed he was not himself. I let him sit in the backyard for about an hour, thinking he might enjoy being outside. When I went back out to look for him, he was lying under the bushes and couldn't get up. I sat there with him, in the dirt, and then carried him inside so he could sleep comfortably in his bed. He lay in the kitchen by me while I chopped veggies and listened to Chopin's Noctures.
I knew he was sick, but until this morning I didn't know the severity of his sickness.
He was in terrible pain this morning, limply lying in his crate and distortedly opening his mouth for breath. Each time he heaved, he cried a terrible cry. I woke Mom and together we tried to comfort him, but he barely acknowledged our existence. We woke Dad and he loaded up the car, Blue inside his crate, and Mom and I took him to the emergency clinic.
After an examination, the doctor came in and told us that Blue's condition was very serious. His blood pressure was extremely low, and he was severely dehydrated. The doctor could not make a conclusive diagnosis without X-rays and blood-work, but he suspected kidney failure. He said Blue was suffering badly.
Mom and I talked, and then we went back to see Blue. He looked even worse - his cries now low moans - and his eyes were dull and cloudy. I had to make a very hard decision. All I wanted was to scoop him up, take him home with me, and rock him like a big baby. I wanted him to have his bed. But I knew that was a selfish wish, so instead I stroked his head while he breathed his last. My tears hit the table, and I kissed his head.
It's a strange thing to arrive to a clinic with your dog, and then leave with box. I felt its heaviness - his weight - as I carried his body home. Now a white box - adorned with green flowers and Blue's name with a heart - sits nearby. I don't quite know what to make of it. The finality of it all is too much to bear just yet. I'm truly feeling the weight of having so many that I love far away. I just never imagined that I'd have to say a last goodbye to Blue this soon.
I know this is lengthy, and I don't mean to spoil your Sunday. I'm thankful it's the Lord's day, as I need the closeness of fellowship. Tonight we're having a celebration service for my pastor, whose cancer has been in remission for five years now. I'm playing the piano for a song titled, "Healing is in Your Hands."
For me, it will be a time to praise a God who gives and takes away. I think I will feel that all too acutely.
I'll close by sharing some of my favorite memories of Blue.
-I remember clearly the morning I found the ad - "free dog" - in the classifieds. I was up early and the first to contact the owners.
-When we first met Blue, he charged in the room, hopped on the couch, and nestled his nose into our hair. Strange, yes, but I was enchanted. I'll never forget the crying boy in the other room, who was loathe to see his dog go. I feel his pain.
-When we had some remodeling done in our home, workers were in and out all the time. Henry the tiler was here for quite some time, and he brought his lunch with him every day. I don't know how many times Blue managed to scarf down Henry's sandwich. Henry actually grew very fond of Blue and made a game out of it.
-One thanksgiving we all transitioned from the dining room into the family room, leaving some food still on the table. Next thing we knew, Blue was on top of the table, nose in the turkey and potatoes.
-Blue had a nose for anything edible. In his younger years, he had enough spring to actually grab a loaf of bread off the counter. It's still common to see loaves of bread stacked on top of the toaster or in the middle of the island.
-I used to sneak him any dinner items I didn't like. ;)
-As much as he loved food, he always waited patiently for dinner. After I'd fill his bowl, I'd instruct him to wait. I could walk away, and still he'd sit, waiting for my command to eat.
-When we first brought Tootsie home, Blue would have nothing to do with her. He acted like an old fuddy duddy as the wired puppy annoyed him to no end. Before too long he warmed up to her, and they enjoyed playing together.
-One of Blue's other favorite spots was under my bed. Once Tali and I were having a sleepover and suddenly felt something moving beneath us. Turns out Blue had snuck under there without our knowledge.
-Blue had a knack for bolting out the front door if it was ever cracked open. He always went two places: our next-door neighbor's trash (I'm gone through their leftovers numerous times), or Maggie's house. Maggie, Emma, and Wesley were always so sweet to him. He always came home, and I always recognized his quiet scratch at the front door.
-Back in the day my brother was fond of throwing me in the pool. Blue barked and barked as I screamed, and once he even jumped in after me and saw me to safety.
-My friend Megan and I are used to love watching Wishbone. Many times when she came over we played detectives and Blue was our trusty sleuth dog.
-Blue and Tsukasa had a cute relationship. He liked her Japanese snacks and usually found some while she was packing. She would yell and yell, "Bruuu!" :) But every time she came home I heard her say to Blue, "I actually missed you."
-Once he found an entire bag of Reese's Peanut Butter Cups and Peppermint Patties (separate occasions). We found the wrappers and empty bags. He was fine.
-Blue had a bark! Our neighbors hated us for it, but he barked right on through any sort of shock collar. (De-barking was out of the question!) He was always on the hunt for squirrels and caught one once. I disposed of it very quickly. Until recently, there was a trail marked out in the backyard that Blue would run every day.
-Whenever I brought baby sitting kids over, the little ones loved to pet him. While Tootsie would have none of it, Blue always sat there and let the kiddos touch him. He was so sweet to children.
-Blue was a manly dog, but he let me dress him up every now and then. He hated his and Toot's matching winter sweaters. I tried a Batman Halloween costume once, but that was a no-go. His favorite was his Gator shirt, hands down! He also looked very handsome in kerchiefs.
-Every winter we make fires in the fireplace, and Blue loved to sit near the warmth.
-He knew some great tricks, and even had some cool spin moves in his younger years.
-He was the kind of dog that got into trouble quite often. But we all loved him for his curiosity and mischief (especially my sister, when he ate her hand-decorated Christmas cookies! ;) He was family - sometimes they mess with your stuff, but you love them anyway.
Most importantly, he was mine. Every time I walked in the door and said his name, his whole body seemed to nod in acknowledgement. He knew he belonged to me, and I loved him. I have many great memories of our time together.
And now the family photos. The dogs just had to squeeze in...
I looked at my phone: 3AM. Then I walked out to the kitchen where Blue was sleeping in his crate.
He was crying.
Let me back up. Yesterday I noticed Blue wasn't feeling well. He's had trouble walking for the last six months or so, but recently it had become more laborious for him walk a lot. Yesterday I couldn't get him to get up out of his bed. He messed in the house twice, because he couldn't walk to the back door. In the afternoon I carried him to and from the backyard. The doctor had told us that Blue had a misplaced disc in his back, so we just assumed it was flaring up.
But yesterday I noticed he was not himself. I let him sit in the backyard for about an hour, thinking he might enjoy being outside. When I went back out to look for him, he was lying under the bushes and couldn't get up. I sat there with him, in the dirt, and then carried him inside so he could sleep comfortably in his bed. He lay in the kitchen by me while I chopped veggies and listened to Chopin's Noctures.
I knew he was sick, but until this morning I didn't know the severity of his sickness.
He was in terrible pain this morning, limply lying in his crate and distortedly opening his mouth for breath. Each time he heaved, he cried a terrible cry. I woke Mom and together we tried to comfort him, but he barely acknowledged our existence. We woke Dad and he loaded up the car, Blue inside his crate, and Mom and I took him to the emergency clinic.
After an examination, the doctor came in and told us that Blue's condition was very serious. His blood pressure was extremely low, and he was severely dehydrated. The doctor could not make a conclusive diagnosis without X-rays and blood-work, but he suspected kidney failure. He said Blue was suffering badly.
Mom and I talked, and then we went back to see Blue. He looked even worse - his cries now low moans - and his eyes were dull and cloudy. I had to make a very hard decision. All I wanted was to scoop him up, take him home with me, and rock him like a big baby. I wanted him to have his bed. But I knew that was a selfish wish, so instead I stroked his head while he breathed his last. My tears hit the table, and I kissed his head.
It's a strange thing to arrive to a clinic with your dog, and then leave with box. I felt its heaviness - his weight - as I carried his body home. Now a white box - adorned with green flowers and Blue's name with a heart - sits nearby. I don't quite know what to make of it. The finality of it all is too much to bear just yet. I'm truly feeling the weight of having so many that I love far away. I just never imagined that I'd have to say a last goodbye to Blue this soon.
I know this is lengthy, and I don't mean to spoil your Sunday. I'm thankful it's the Lord's day, as I need the closeness of fellowship. Tonight we're having a celebration service for my pastor, whose cancer has been in remission for five years now. I'm playing the piano for a song titled, "Healing is in Your Hands."
For me, it will be a time to praise a God who gives and takes away. I think I will feel that all too acutely.
I'll close by sharing some of my favorite memories of Blue.
-I remember clearly the morning I found the ad - "free dog" - in the classifieds. I was up early and the first to contact the owners.
-When we first met Blue, he charged in the room, hopped on the couch, and nestled his nose into our hair. Strange, yes, but I was enchanted. I'll never forget the crying boy in the other room, who was loathe to see his dog go. I feel his pain.
-When we had some remodeling done in our home, workers were in and out all the time. Henry the tiler was here for quite some time, and he brought his lunch with him every day. I don't know how many times Blue managed to scarf down Henry's sandwich. Henry actually grew very fond of Blue and made a game out of it.
-One thanksgiving we all transitioned from the dining room into the family room, leaving some food still on the table. Next thing we knew, Blue was on top of the table, nose in the turkey and potatoes.
-Blue had a nose for anything edible. In his younger years, he had enough spring to actually grab a loaf of bread off the counter. It's still common to see loaves of bread stacked on top of the toaster or in the middle of the island.
-I used to sneak him any dinner items I didn't like. ;)
-As much as he loved food, he always waited patiently for dinner. After I'd fill his bowl, I'd instruct him to wait. I could walk away, and still he'd sit, waiting for my command to eat.
-When we first brought Tootsie home, Blue would have nothing to do with her. He acted like an old fuddy duddy as the wired puppy annoyed him to no end. Before too long he warmed up to her, and they enjoyed playing together.
-One of Blue's other favorite spots was under my bed. Once Tali and I were having a sleepover and suddenly felt something moving beneath us. Turns out Blue had snuck under there without our knowledge.
-Blue had a knack for bolting out the front door if it was ever cracked open. He always went two places: our next-door neighbor's trash (I'm gone through their leftovers numerous times), or Maggie's house. Maggie, Emma, and Wesley were always so sweet to him. He always came home, and I always recognized his quiet scratch at the front door.
-Back in the day my brother was fond of throwing me in the pool. Blue barked and barked as I screamed, and once he even jumped in after me and saw me to safety.
-My friend Megan and I are used to love watching Wishbone. Many times when she came over we played detectives and Blue was our trusty sleuth dog.
-Blue and Tsukasa had a cute relationship. He liked her Japanese snacks and usually found some while she was packing. She would yell and yell, "Bruuu!" :) But every time she came home I heard her say to Blue, "I actually missed you."
-Once he found an entire bag of Reese's Peanut Butter Cups and Peppermint Patties (separate occasions). We found the wrappers and empty bags. He was fine.
-Blue had a bark! Our neighbors hated us for it, but he barked right on through any sort of shock collar. (De-barking was out of the question!) He was always on the hunt for squirrels and caught one once. I disposed of it very quickly. Until recently, there was a trail marked out in the backyard that Blue would run every day.
-Whenever I brought baby sitting kids over, the little ones loved to pet him. While Tootsie would have none of it, Blue always sat there and let the kiddos touch him. He was so sweet to children.
-Blue was a manly dog, but he let me dress him up every now and then. He hated his and Toot's matching winter sweaters. I tried a Batman Halloween costume once, but that was a no-go. His favorite was his Gator shirt, hands down! He also looked very handsome in kerchiefs.
-Every winter we make fires in the fireplace, and Blue loved to sit near the warmth.
-He knew some great tricks, and even had some cool spin moves in his younger years.
-He was the kind of dog that got into trouble quite often. But we all loved him for his curiosity and mischief (especially my sister, when he ate her hand-decorated Christmas cookies! ;) He was family - sometimes they mess with your stuff, but you love them anyway.
Most importantly, he was mine. Every time I walked in the door and said his name, his whole body seemed to nod in acknowledgement. He knew he belonged to me, and I loved him. I have many great memories of our time together.
And now the family photos. The dogs just had to squeeze in...
Blue Bagel Smurf M: December 2, 1999 - August 29, 2010
Friday, August 27, 2010
May I Just Say...
...that I have the best mommy ever?
Each day she joyfully and carefully puts together several meal courses for me to take to school.
Yes, I'm twenty years old, and my mom makes my lunches. She even slips sweet notes in, too!
I have this handy dandy insulated lunch bag (that says TRIATHLON on the front - from the race I didn't do, ha!) that fits most everything. I slip in an ice pack on days when I take cold things (like yogurt).
Care to see what I handed my mommy last Sunday night? It now has a permanent place inside our kitchen cabinet. Every morning I open the fridge and a feast awaits me. It's like magic.
Thank you, Mommy!
I love you!
Each day she joyfully and carefully puts together several meal courses for me to take to school.
Yes, I'm twenty years old, and my mom makes my lunches. She even slips sweet notes in, too!
I have this handy dandy insulated lunch bag (that says TRIATHLON on the front - from the race I didn't do, ha!) that fits most everything. I slip in an ice pack on days when I take cold things (like yogurt).
Care to see what I handed my mommy last Sunday night? It now has a permanent place inside our kitchen cabinet. Every morning I open the fridge and a feast awaits me. It's like magic.
Thank you, Mommy!
I love you!
Jessie’s School Meal Schedule
Monday
PB and honey on Ezekiel bread
Carrots
1 granola bar
1 cheese stick
1 applesauce
Raisins
Tuesday
Turkey sandwich with onion, mayo, lettuce, cheese
½ cup Greek yogurt with coconut
Lettuce salad with almonds, craisins, carrots, boiled egg, limejuice
1 applesauce
1 cheese stick
Raisins
Wednesday
PB and honey on Ezekiel bread
Carrots
1 granola bar
1 cheese stick
1 applesauce
Handful almonds
1 egg salad sandwich on sandwich thin
Raisins
Thursday
Turkey sandwich with onion, mayo, lettuce, cheese
½ cup Greek yogurt with coconut
Carrots
1 applesauce
1 cheese stick
1 piece fruit
Raisins
Monday, August 23, 2010
Another First
Today marks my third "first" day of college!
I don't know what's happened to me. Saturday night I slept about five hours. I figured my tiredness the following day would set me straight on EST and I would fall asleep at my usual time (during school) of 8:30 or 9:00.
Not even close. I could not fall asleep last night. I don't know if it was excitement, nervousness, or that darn Pac-Man medicine I'm on. But I tossed and turned for nearly two hours before rising for a snack. Another long while and I finally drifted off asleep, waking every so often.
When my alarm buzzed at 4:30 this morning, I shot out of bed. I was wired! On four-ish hours of sleep! It hasn't stopped. Perhaps my enthusiasm is partially about our new music building. (Hooray!) I made it over there about 7:15, walking briskly through all the new hallways. I was even so bold as to ask the lethargic office lady if she loves her new office. (What?) She said it was alright. But really, the building is amazing.
At 7:30 the bookstore opened, and I was the first person in line to pick up online book orders. Then I had class at 8, 9:30, and 11:30. I grabbed a practice room during my hour break. Ensemble class was fun today, too! It was great to see all my piano friends again. As an added bonus, I even got the lesson time for which I was hoping! All of the class objectives and inspirational speeches thrilled me! (I'm seriously wondering what sorts of side affects these meds have.)
Driving with Jessica today made the day all the more exhilarating! I distinctly remember hugging her on our very first day of college before we went our separate ways on campus. I love that she was there today, too!
On the way home from school we stopped at the music store and purchased new books for all my students. I went to the store without a list (atypical for me, and a bad idea), but managed to come home with all the right levels, save one. All my Monday students were given the right books. (Score! I was racking my brain to remember all my students' names and levels off the top of my head.) The store clerk was nice enough to oblige my request to ring up my items separately, though it took forever.
I arrived home, organized all my receipts for parents, and prepared for lessons. I taught six consecutive students today. And I still have energy. (My voice is going a little, though. I'll have to remember to speak more softly and at a higher pitch, as my vocal tech prof always encouraged.)
I know this high won't last for long. This girl craves eight hours of sleep a night. I'm sure by the end of the week I'll be feeling tired and overwhelmed by my class load. Erin and I are already scheduled to play (something) at ensemble class next week.
But for now, I'm loving life.
:)
I don't know what's happened to me. Saturday night I slept about five hours. I figured my tiredness the following day would set me straight on EST and I would fall asleep at my usual time (during school) of 8:30 or 9:00.
Not even close. I could not fall asleep last night. I don't know if it was excitement, nervousness, or that darn Pac-Man medicine I'm on. But I tossed and turned for nearly two hours before rising for a snack. Another long while and I finally drifted off asleep, waking every so often.
When my alarm buzzed at 4:30 this morning, I shot out of bed. I was wired! On four-ish hours of sleep! It hasn't stopped. Perhaps my enthusiasm is partially about our new music building. (Hooray!) I made it over there about 7:15, walking briskly through all the new hallways. I was even so bold as to ask the lethargic office lady if she loves her new office. (What?) She said it was alright. But really, the building is amazing.
At 7:30 the bookstore opened, and I was the first person in line to pick up online book orders. Then I had class at 8, 9:30, and 11:30. I grabbed a practice room during my hour break. Ensemble class was fun today, too! It was great to see all my piano friends again. As an added bonus, I even got the lesson time for which I was hoping! All of the class objectives and inspirational speeches thrilled me! (I'm seriously wondering what sorts of side affects these meds have.)
Driving with Jessica today made the day all the more exhilarating! I distinctly remember hugging her on our very first day of college before we went our separate ways on campus. I love that she was there today, too!
On the way home from school we stopped at the music store and purchased new books for all my students. I went to the store without a list (atypical for me, and a bad idea), but managed to come home with all the right levels, save one. All my Monday students were given the right books. (Score! I was racking my brain to remember all my students' names and levels off the top of my head.) The store clerk was nice enough to oblige my request to ring up my items separately, though it took forever.
I arrived home, organized all my receipts for parents, and prepared for lessons. I taught six consecutive students today. And I still have energy. (My voice is going a little, though. I'll have to remember to speak more softly and at a higher pitch, as my vocal tech prof always encouraged.)
I know this high won't last for long. This girl craves eight hours of sleep a night. I'm sure by the end of the week I'll be feeling tired and overwhelmed by my class load. Erin and I are already scheduled to play (something) at ensemble class next week.
But for now, I'm loving life.
:)
Sunday in Seattle
Ironic that my last vacation post occurs on the first day of school. But all things must come to an end, and life moves on. :(
Last Sunday was another fun day in the city of Seattle. We started off the day great by attending Mars Hill Church. Mom and I are big "Marky" fans, so we loved it! Such a timely message for me with school starting today. (I'd post a link to the message, but it doesn't seem to be posted yet.)
After church we met up with Ning and Hu, old friends of Julia's and our family. Ning attended the same university as Julia and often joined us for holidays, just as another member of the family. One day she brought Hu to our home. He was so kind, washing dishes and offering to help, so Dad gave his approval. ;)
In September 2006, we flew to the Chicago area (where Hu was studying) to attend Ning's wedding. Her family was still in China, so we stepped in as her surrogate family. My dad gave her away, my mom stood in as her honorary mother, and my sister stood up next to her as a bridesmaid. (I offered to be the flower girl, but sixteen is a bit old for the position.)
A couple years ago they moved to the Seattle area, and we were so excited to visit them while we were out there!
Last Sunday was another fun day in the city of Seattle. We started off the day great by attending Mars Hill Church. Mom and I are big "Marky" fans, so we loved it! Such a timely message for me with school starting today. (I'd post a link to the message, but it doesn't seem to be posted yet.)
After church we met up with Ning and Hu, old friends of Julia's and our family. Ning attended the same university as Julia and often joined us for holidays, just as another member of the family. One day she brought Hu to our home. He was so kind, washing dishes and offering to help, so Dad gave his approval. ;)
In September 2006, we flew to the Chicago area (where Hu was studying) to attend Ning's wedding. Her family was still in China, so we stepped in as her surrogate family. My dad gave her away, my mom stood in as her honorary mother, and my sister stood up next to her as a bridesmaid. (I offered to be the flower girl, but sixteen is a bit old for the position.)
A couple years ago they moved to the Seattle area, and we were so excited to visit them while we were out there!
Lunch! (Note: never order as much food as the waiter reccomends at Buca di Beppo! We had pasta coming out our ears!)
Unfortunately, Hu was called in to work, so we had to continue on without him.
We went to the Exerpience Music Project and Science Fiction museums.
There was a whole section on the history of the guitar, so we saw some neat, old models.
One of the coolest things about the Experience Music Project was the interactive music lab. There were sound booths and other places where you could try out instruments and mix music. Some of the sections even gave you a short lesson and taught you a song. (I learned the bass part to "Wild Thing". :)
Tyler has given me a couple drum lessons, so I'm comfortable with a standard 4/4 beat. I decided this qualified me to teach everyone else.
That's the teacher in me! Doesn't my student look enthralled? :)
Ning looks like such a rocker! =P
Mom and Dad had fun, too! :D
Of course we had to pose with The Supreme's costumes.
We headed over to the Science Fiction museum (in the same building) next!
I know Ty likes his dinosaurs...
Stormtrooper!
I'm not a Star Wars freak (anymore...), but I'm not that in to science fiction films, so I latched onto the few familiar things in the museum.
I loved this, though! It showcased all the different weapons used in famous movies.
The Pac-Man that's eating away at my stomach?
Ning and I got a kick out of the Star Wars cookbook. (Really, I'm not a freak!)
Later we walked around outside around the Space Needle.
Ning and Hu, we had a wonderful time with you both! Thanks for welcoming us and spending time with us!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)