karapy

some of my favorite things here

2008-09-06T10:11:00.000-07:00

The local co-op where I can buy many of the goodies I enjoyed back home.

Neighborhood sidewalks

Amazing scenery- greenery everywhere and breath taking sunsets!

Seeing the sun everyday:)

10 minute drive to work

Going to church with people our age again.

Jason making dinner more and helping out around the house DAILY;0

Crock-pot meals

the time to bake and cook again

flea markets

garage sales

dental insurance

late Sunday morning breakfast (b/c church is at night here)

Life in the South

2008-09-06T09:59:00.000-07:00

Jason and are settling in here. Work is going better than expected and I am so thankful for the opportunity to continue my personal and professional development in such a progressive and supportive environment. As a family we have decided that Jason will use this time to write and try to get published in preparation for his future schooling. We have made many changes in the last few months as a couple and we are doing surprisingly well. On Sunday evenings we have been attending church at All Souls which is a comfortable mix of Presbyterianism and Pentecostalism for us. We hope to visit local churches on Sunday mornings to experience the church culture here. Life is truly going well and we are very blessed- we defiantly see purpose in our move and trust that we will continue to unravel the plan.

Creative Energy

2008-07-30T15:44:00.001-07:00

This week I turned my carry on bag into an underwear and sock "drawer" and my shoe box (the only one I brought from home) into a jewelery box. I was getting real tired of rooting through 3 different bags to find the right accessory so instead I now hang my earrings over the edge of the box and lay my necklaces out in the bottom of the box- it is a great set-up and it was absolutely FREE!

Week Two

2008-07-30T15:15:00.000-07:00

Our second week here is going MUCH better. This weekend we hit up some more garage sales. We got our first chair- a wooden rocker. Jason's rear end was starting to hurt from sitting on the floor so we really had to do something and fortunately we came across some folks who were down sizing from a farm house. At the next garage sale we met Jennifer and Joey who will be married in 3 weeks. We bought a full mattress and box spring set and a microwave (a very clean one I might add) from them and they even offered to deliver it the next day. When Joey brought the stuff by on Sunday he also offered us the furniture he didn't sale the day before. So we got a desk, futon, and four chairs all at no extra cost. We felt really blessed by his generosity. Jason and I both slept like babies on our new bed. On Monday at work another intern from this area offered us a coffee table, 2 end tables, a dresser, and a box full of extras - we gladly accepted. This week we are feeling very thankful for all God has provided!

ALL in one day...

2008-07-20T14:10:00.000-07:00

My parents offered to drive our stuff out so Jason and I could spend a few more days fixing up our house. We managed to get it all done and feel very satisfied with the outcome. We will miss our girl for the year- we have been blessed by her character and charm! Thursday morning we headed to the airport and thankfully our flight to Nashville went very smoothly. Chris my brother-in-law gave us fabulous advice to get on the first flight out of PDX and it worked (we had standby tickets)- thanks Chris! Mom and Dad met us at the airport and we all headed downtown for dinner. What we saw of Nashville was less than impressive however, we did stumble upon a great BBQ place to eat- Jacks Bar-B-Que (http://www.jacksbarbque.com/). Early on Friday morning we saw Mom and Dad off at the airport. We went back to the hotel and slept for a few more hours. When I woke up I could feel a migraine coming on. By 10am I had locked myself in the hotel bathroom to keep the light out of my eyes. We had to check out at noon so Jason loaded us all up while I laid on the bathroom floor trying to keep my nausea at bay. Jason drove the 2 and 1/2 hour drive to our new home for a year. I thought I was feeling better and then while driving along the freeway this happened,
Me- "Jason my stomach really hurts, I think I am going to barf."
Jason- "just let me know and I can pull over"
Me- dry heaving
Jason- "roll down the window" as he is pulling onto the shoulder
Me- opening car door and letting it all out "ok I think I am all done"
Jason- "we can wait a minute"
Me- and yet again I find myself hanging out the door for several minutes
Jason- back on the road again

I did feel better and I thought well this will probably be the worst part of our day. Once in town we picked up our keys and headed to our apartment. On the way over I found out we wouldn't have electricity until Monday- yikes! As we opened the door to our new home we were greeted with a cloud of smoke. Obviously my inquiry about ridding our apartment of smoke before we arrived hadn't meant much over the phone... While unloading the car I fell off the stairs and twisted my foot ruining one of my favorite pairs of pants and bruising the top of my foot. It began to swell immediately. Jason did the rest of the unloading! In an effort to avoid the apartment Jason and I headed out for the night. When we returned Jason informed me of the unclean state of our apartment. I have wondered sometimes if Jason notices/cares about how clean I keep things and in this case it became apparent that he does. We both slept well our first night in town and when woke up we happily found the electricity had been turned on. We spent the day hitting up yard sales in an effort to furnish our apartment. Shopping is tiring work so last night we spent the night at home, trying to adjust to our surroundings. Since our arrival we have been enjoying the greenery (which is very similar to home)and the beautiful southern sunsets.

Tennessee

2008-07-20T14:04:00.001-07:00

we are finally here.. nothing like I thought it would be and possibly much harder than I imagined. Please keep us in your prayers- I see very clearly that this will give both J and I an opportunity to be more like Christ and the truth is this really really hurts! I feel broken, stripped, alone...

music for my soul

2008-07-20T14:03:00.001-07:00

In the process of moving far far away from friends and family I am listening to songs that remind me that God is in control. Check out some of my favs-

Annie Bethancourt's song "the birds of the air" (for some reason the link won't work so you'll have to go to my space and search Annie Bethancourt)

My little sis told me about JJ Heller and along with "Save Me" I really like "Small" and "Only Love Remains" (again for some reason the link won't work so you'll have to go to my space and search JJ Heller) -she is from Nashville and I am hoping to see her live while I am out south maybe with my sister?:)

veggies anyone?

2008-06-20T11:27:00.000-07:00

I feel like a little kid again with my garden- each day I go out back to check on my little ones and to measure any new growth. Just this week my seeds turned into veggies- WOW. I officially have green and yellow beans growing:) My lettuce has started to sprout too- oh how I love my greens! Sadly, the more shaded areas of my garden aren't doing as well but I think a little time might be just what they need(my fingers are crossed:)

The beans were the first to sprout!

I used the cilantro for dinner last night- I loved picking it right before I put it on the table.

At dinner time I can't wait to be able to say, "what kind of greens would you like in your salad tonight?"

Homemade Goodies

2008-06-10T11:38:00.001-07:00

My friend Annie is quite the cook/baker and she has inspired me to make more things from scratch. So last night an hour before the guests showed up I thought, "what can I make for dessert?" In an effort to use what I already have, I remembered Annie and her good old fashioned homemade ways. I called her for the brownie recipe she made for us in Sun River and gave it a try. Yum, Yum- I love homemade treats. Plus it feels good to make something with the stuff I already have. I have been thinking about the time before boxed mixes and how everyone cooked/baked from scratch and how dependant I have become on mixes and pre-made stuff. I am eager to pick-up some of the old fashion skills our society has tossed aside in pursuit of instant gratification. Take sewing for instance- I think I would enjoy the process of picking out fabric and patterns and putting the peices all together. In my book that would be time and creative energey well spent.

Annie's Brownies:
1/2 cup butter, melted
1 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla
2 eggs
1/2 cup flour (I used whole wheat and no-one noticed:)
1/3 cup cocoa
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
(Per Jason's request, I added 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips and they were great- I think next time I would decrease the butter a bit because of the added oil in the chocolate chips...)
Pre-heat oven to 350
Mix all ingredients and put in a 9 inch pan
Bake for 20-25 (or until you start smelling them)

the weather out there

2008-06-10T11:16:00.000-07:00

Yesterday as the rain came down I did find myself wondering what it was like in Knoxville... If you ever wonder what temps we might experience in Tennessee check out the site below

http://www.wunderground.com/cgi-bin/findweather/getForecast?query=37920

Our first "going away party"

2008-06-09T10:05:00.000-07:00

Yesterday afternoon the youth group had a going away party for us. This is an event that has been in the making for awhile now and so the reality of us leaving in one month hit me hard yesterday. I so don't feel ready to go... I am having a lot of mixed emotions- mostly sad. I think this is consistent with the way I process, 1st stage: overly optimistic, 2nd stage: overly sad, and 3rd stage: realistic. I think I have moved into the overly sad stage and will be here for awhile. Jason and I have a great life here and leaving will be hard- yes I realize we will grow and learn much but change is very hard. I wish I could have all the people I love together and hold them really close and tight.

This week

2008-06-06T09:55:00.000-07:00

Monday- returned home from a long weekend in Sun River. Paul, Annie, Eli, and Mindy joined us and we had so much fun playing games, eating yummy food, and enjoying the outdoors. We've been friends with the Robinsons for 7 years now and spending the weekend with them reminds us what great friends they have been throughout the years. Going on vacation with Mindy is like living with her- SIMPLY WONDERFUL!

Tuesday- celebrated our 8th anniversary with Beth & Jeremiah who were married on the exact same day as us! Upon rising, Jason cut roses from our garden and filled our living room with arrangements. I spent the day planting my first garden. First I weeded, which I discovered I actually enjoy digging each weed up individually- it feels like victory over and over again. I planted leeks (maybe too many:), red, green and white onions, carrots, beets, green and yellow beans, squash, kale, and brussel sprouts. I also planted a few herbs. I will plant purple and green cabbage, mint, rosemary, corn, snow peas, and a variety of lettuces this weekend. We have a large garden area and I am so thankful for the room to grow many herbs and veggies. In the evening Johnsons came over and we grilled salmon and asparagus (both in season) and a side of jasmine rice with lime and cilantro (Beth great idea -it was so tasty!) After dinner we played games and laughed with one another. Then we headed to OBA in the Pearl for happy hour. It was a treat to celebrate our friendships and our marriages together.

Wednesday- dissertation work:) and dinner at the Robinson's. It seems like they are always coming here so we decided to head over to their apartment for dinner. We had yummy homemade chicken noodle soup and bread- Annie is a great cook! We had strawberry shortcake and whipped cream for dessert. We played card games and 10,000 to end the evening!

Thursday- more dissertation work and dinner with 2 of our favorite high school girls.
We made what we had and enjoyed each other's company.

Today- I hope to clean the house, finish up some odds and ends and make Zuppa Tuscana for dinner- Annie gave me the recipe and Jason loves it. Tonight we will enjoy dinner with one of my friends from GFU.

Tomorrow- Rain or shine we are leveling and seeding the back yard:) We got it ready 2 weeks ago and it has been muddy since so tomorrow we are going for it regardless of the weather.

The BIG Move

2008-05-22T11:04:00.000-07:00

We calculated our move today and it is only 2,534 miles. It will take aprox. 1 day (24hrs) + 13 more hours of non-stop driving to reach our new home. Traveling at a pace of about 5-7 hrs per day will require a whole week of traveling- Yikes this is a long ways away! Camping and brown bag meals seem like the most economical and fun to me but Jason isn't too keen on a weeks worth of instant oatmeal and pb & honey. Of course we'll take our french press and stumptown coffee to get the mornings rolling. I am hoping I can talk Jason into a few brief hikes and possible off the routed path excursions. We are headed out in about 6 weeks and I think our latest decision is not to bring much because of the cost of moving it all there and back. I can't believe how expensive it is to move- 1 bedroom for about $2000. So we'll arrive with little and find some needed goods on craigslist or at goodwill. This will be quite the adventure!

Wrapping up loose ends

2008-05-15T09:00:00.000-07:00

I have stumbled across another weakness of mine or shall I say it has been brought to my attention that some of my behavior is counter-productive to my relationships. So here it is, I am a starter but not always a timely finisher. I am enthusiastic about the beginning and jump in head first. I get going on the project but sometimes leave a lot of loose ends to be taken care of later (date still to be decided). This causes me a great deal of anxiety and worry because I usually have to hold on to all little pieces that need to be wrapped up. Well this might work, and probably use to when I was working on one or two projects at a time, but now that I have at least 10 things going all the time the loose ends are strangling me! I see this affecting my relationships too because it means when trying to focus on any one thing or person I have a zillion other thoughts of what I need to do next- so much for quality time. I am jumping all over the place all the time just trying to manage the loose ends. Also, I often lack a sense of accomplishment because by the time I complete the project I am so mad at myself for dragging it on that there is no celebration in its completion! In fact most tasks usually become dreaded by the end and I am just relieved to be finally done. I am not sure how to remedy this problem but am confident that I will have many more opportunities to practice wrapping up loose ends in a timely fashion.

Money, Sex, and Power by Richard Foster

2008-05-15T08:42:00.000-07:00

I finally finished this book today. It has taken me almost one year to complete because it is quite thought provoking and convicting. I have thoroughly enjoyed the book because of the counter-culture perspective it presents and its applicable nature to my daily life.

In reading the epilogue today, I really appreciated this section on Living the Vows

"The vows of simplicity, fidelity, and service are for all Christians at all times. They are categorical imperatives for obedient followers of the obedient Christ. They are the beginning point from which we explore the depths of the spiritual life and discover our mission in the world...The vows call us to a vigorous social witness. We stand in contradiction to the dominant culture, which has given its soul to the vows of greed, permissiveness, and selfishness. We critique empty values of contemporary society, and call it to joyful discipleship to Christ."

just one more round

2008-05-08T16:24:00.000-07:00

so I've picked up the knitting needles again. Yes, I am still working on Jason's birthday sweater of 2004. Lets just say I've gotten lots and lots of practice on this project! Back at it again and enjoying myself.

good morning

2008-05-05T09:04:00.000-07:00

I stumbled across this quote this morning and it spoke volumes to me about the anxiety within that I try to avoid daily. At times it seems counter-intuitive to think that if I choose to avoid my anxiety it will only get BIGGER, forcing me to deal with it eventually. I just want it to go away because honestly it feels too messy to deal with. So I think, "By not acknowledge the anxiety it will go away." I've tried this a few times and it doesn't seem to be effective or a very efficient way of handling my emotions. This quote spoke of my experiential finding.....

"When you repress or suppress those things which you don't want to live with, you don't solve the problem because you don't bury the problem dead- you bury it alive. It remains alive and active inside you." John Powell

Today is that FRIDAY!

2008-02-22T07:37:00.000-08:00

I awoke this morning at 6:20 to find an email awaiting me from National Matching Services Inc. I couldn't bring myself to read it right away so I went to the bathroom and then read a few friend's emails informing me that they had been matched. Finally, I opened the email and found that I too had been matched. Thankfulness and sadness gripped my heart....Thankful that the work is done (those that didn't match have to enter the Clearinghouse on Monday and start the interviewing process all over again). Sad because on Monday we'll find out where we are going and the chances of staying in the area are slim to none. All along I've been telling J, "its only for a year." And it is but we are so rooted here and I really, really don't want to leave our family and friends. I'll post the news on Monday.....

Only a Friday Away

2008-02-14T12:47:00.000-08:00

Next Friday we find out if I matched and then the following Monday we find out where I matched... I didn't think I was anxious about the upcoming news but my behavior tells me otherwise. I am eating a lot more chocolate - usually in the evenings when the day slows down and I have time to think about our UNKNOWN future. I am craving coffee all day long in order to increase my already rapid thought process and avoid any chance to process the potential required changes in the near future. I have been waking up several times a night consumed with "What if's" about next year. Falling asleep is anxiety ridden because my mind naturally wanders to the Internship File, which usually remains under lock and key until my head hits the pillow. To be honest I am scared to find out the news next week because things are going to change and I like where we are in life. I am afraid of my response to the news and the disappointment I am sure to feel regardless of the placement.... because it is final - I have no more say in the matter and change is hard for me!

This week I have come to realize that the site I ranked #1 is where I whole heartedly want to be next year and this makes the process all the more risky. At the core I do know and believe that God is in control and that he can use me anywhere- and even still the angst remains.

he's been calling me bangs

2008-01-29T10:21:00.000-08:00

Fortunately, I have not had many bad haircuts in the last 10 years, not bad enough to remember anyway. However, a few weeks ago I went in for a bang TRIM and unfortunately my usual hair stylist was out but because I was leaving town the next day for another interview I settled. I was nervous about the trim in the first place but decided that un-kept hair might not reflect well in my upcoming interviews so I cautiously approached the swirling chairing and put on the black wrap. I asked for a TRIM and boy did I get one. My bangs were so short- I was speechless. I have always wondered what I would look like with bangs straight across my forehead but this was not the ideal time to try out a new look. I left the hair on the floor and started on my way home, dodging all reflections of my new do. On the car ride home Annie and I laughed so hard we cried. She gave me several pep talks (I think she got some good practice in for the speeches she will one day give to Eli) about how my character will shine through at the interviews and that hair style really isn't that important anyway and if a site doesn't pick me because of my hair than I really don't want to be in that shallow of an environment anyway. I was feeling a little bit better, then Paul arrived at the house and the first thing he said to me was, "What did you do to your hair? Why are you wearing it that way?" A little while later J came home and noticed the big change too- there was lots of laughter in the kitchen that night! Mindy was encouraging, "they'll grow out and if you got your eyebrows waxed they might look better. I even have a friend we could call and ask to do it." The eyebrow wax did help but the bangs still were too short- especially for the hairstyle I currently have. My sister came for the weekend and said, "what is up with your hair?" I told here that I was planning to get the rest of my hair cut to match the bangs when we returned from my last interview and that sadly my original plan to start growing out my hair had been thwarted. As predicted, my bangs have grown out a bit in the last few weeks but in the meantime Jason has adopted a new nickname for me "bangs" -it really is affectionate and we laugh every time he says it. I am excited for my appointment on Thursday- I like feeling cute and a hair cut can really make or break this feeling. This experience has given me a new appreciation for a GOOD HAIRCUT! I pay my stylist not just for the cut but for the creativity and ability to shape my hair in a way that is flattering- given the texture of my hair and features of my face. Now I know she is worth every penny and more!

you know you've found the right doctor when....

2008-01-29T10:07:00.001-08:00

You smile when you find your yearly reminder in the mail.

You are excited to make a follow-up appointment- even it is for your yearly exam!

You can ask her to hold your hand when blood is being drawn and she actually does it with a smile on her face and warmth in her touch- NO SHAMING INVOLVED!

You create a blog to tell all your friends how important it is to find the "right" doctor and you are oozing with delight about finding your own "right" doc because you too have experienced the "not so right" doc just like so many other women out there.

Ladies be encouraged, there are in fact some good side-bed mannered docs out there- happy hunting!

at home and back to work

2008-01-24T18:28:00.000-08:00

I flew in last night and I am back in the swing of things my first day back.

Made breakfast for my love

Prepared all my meals at home- YUMMY real food!

Did my weekly household chores

Paid some bills and called to inform others that their $$$ was in the mail- OOPS!

Started working on my dissertation again- yikes I've got to get BUSY

Wrote and sent a few thank you notes to the interviewers at my most favorite sites:)

Visited my gym- it feels good to work out at my neighborhood gym again

Went tutoring with Jason

Hung out at one of my favorite coffee shops doing homework and BLOGGING!

Now I've got to get back to work as I only have a few more hours to finish my to do list for the day.

Breaking the silence...

2008-01-24T17:54:00.000-08:00

I am in a blog funk..... For the last several months (dating back to the start of internship applications and prelim dissertation deadlines- August?)although I love to chat it up, I haven't been in the "mood" to blog. Quite frankly my energy level has been depleted and the last thing I feel like doing, inside or outside of school, is writing. Even though I've been away from school the last month, I have been exhausted by internship interviews. Some of the interview days were from 8am to 6pm with 7 personal interviews packed in and I needed 2 days to rest off the nerves and prepare for the next one. My words have been taken up and my creativity spent. The good news is that things are a changing as I finished the last of my in person interviews on Tuesday! This trip was simply wonderful for several reasons:

1. It marked the end of my 5 week travel with only 4 days spent at home.

2. My younger sister Koy'a joined me and we had a girl's weekend- I can't remember the last time it was just the 2 of us!

3. The part of Cali we visited was 5 miles from the beach and the town was more beautiful than expected! The landscape was very green and the hills were a rollings.

4. I didn't have to fly alone- I have decided that I really don't like to fly and being alone only makes it worse.

5. I celebrated the completion of my last interview with a movie (Juno), shopping (BR), and a 30 minute massage with my sister.

Well, those are just a few of the top reasons why this trip was so relaxing and refreshing. As the words return I hope to find myself back in the mood to share the happenings of my life.

The FIRST INTERVIEW

2007-12-20T20:57:00.000-08:00

I am proud to say that I DID IT- I made it through my first interview and feel pretty good about the whole thing to be honest. The best part of the interview was my ability to be ME- really me. I wasn't overly nervous and I felt comfortable. The interviewers asked thoughtful questions but not the kind that are really a "TEST" Other than its location I was ready to rank the site today. The population is ideal, I'd be working in a foster boarding home and a group home of unwed mothers and their children (0-5). The staff seemed warm and knowledgeable. It is a Catholic organization so faith is acknowledged and accepted. Therapy and diagnosis are emphasized and the orientation is both dynamic and cbt. It was a great place for a first interview - I thought to myself at one point, "Kara, you really do know a lot about working with kids." It was a confidence booster. I am glad it is over and I look forward to a few weeks of rest in between the next set of interviews.

THE COUNT

2007-12-13T09:30:00.000-08:00

So far I have 9 interviews, 1 rejection, and 4 more to be decided by Friday.

I can't even begin to tell you how amazed I am. Honestly, I was hoping for a couple of interviews and would have been thrilled with 4. Jason, Mindy, and I would joke about only being able to take 7 due to finances. So far I am flying to 3 places and trying to knock out 2 interviews per air flight. And it just so happens that J & I have been accruing air miles for the last 7 and a half years. Right now (perfect timing) we have enough for 4 round trip tickets. I have 5 interviews scheduled, am negotiating with 1 site, and am trying to decide if I should go to the 3 others..... We are thinking "so do we really want to live in Florida, Connecticut, or California?" I think Connecticut is out and Florida might be in its way too but we vacillate with California because even though it is expensive. it is the closest to our family who we are already starting to miss and nothing is finalized yet! The locations of the sites I have already confirmed interviews are: Kentucky, Tennessee, Louisiana, and NY. The sites in Kentucky and Tennessee are only 2 hrs apart so J will hopefully join me on this trip and we will drive from site to site. Jason and I haven't done much traveling since our honeymoon so this will be a fun adventure for us. I love car trips, as a result of my childhood vacations:)- thanks Dad and Mom, but J doesn't seem to get excited about them unless it is in APPALACHIA territory. Looks like this trip will be a WIN WIN- I love when that happens! Thanks for all your prayers and your willingness to hear me talk about my grad school experiences over and over. Friends and family I could not have done this with out you all- thanks for your love and support. MORE TO COME...

Deep Roots: Part I

2007-12-06T11:48:00.000-08:00

Today I blog about many things because I can- I am actually taking the time to sit at a coffee shop, sip on coffee, and write about the things I WANT TO- hope you enjoy

I saw a picture that reminded me of my love of lakes and rivers. (I'd post the picture but can't get it to work!) As a child my parents took the family camping every year and on these vacations we would swim, ski, inter-tube, float, wade, or any other activity that one could do in water. These are my favorite childhood memories- I was free to run a muck. I fondly think of the warm summer days lounging around with my loving family and surmise that summer is in fact my favorite season because of these formidable experiences. As an adult I realize how much work it was for my parents- thank you Mom and Dad for working so hard on my behalf! I am indebted to you for the love and affection you have shown me throughout the years!

The picture also reminded me of the many summers I spent at Dorena lake as a teenager. Koy'a I think fondly of the years we spent growing together. You are the kind of sister who loves, loves, loves, and loves some more. Jason tries to analyze our relationship and often says, "Kara you take care of Koy'a more like an the oldest sibling would." I of course pipe in and say, "Koy'a takes care of me too J. We are this way (naturally I psychologize our relationship- just trying to remain consistent)because we shared a room and even when we didn't we still acted like we be. We were only 19 months apart- In my memory Koy'a has always been there and will always will be. This makes "us" special friends." Koy'a thank you for loving me, enjoying me, and pursuing me.

Naturally this brings me to Kaysia- my adult years have been showered with Kaysia's generosity. She has been the "older sister" who naturally helped her little sis out time and again. I think fondly of when I first moved to "her" city and she made the time to work out with me- oh the YMCA. I think it was Kaysh who got me into exercising- most who know me when asked about me would mention my enthusiasm for exercise and would find it hard to imagine me without it. What a great example Kaysh was for a young, very young (late bloomer:) aspiring girl in a new city. Thanks Kaysh for loving me with both your words and deeds throughout the years. I appreciate your thoughtfulness and know that I can always count on you.

More to come on my roots....

Update- I did it!

2007-11-29T20:41:00.000-08:00

Well it is over and yes I passed. I must say I am disappointed with the "let down"- I still have all the adrenaline but am feeling exhausted. I should sleep for days but my mind is racing! In fact now my mind feels even more full with all the loose ends I've let unravel over the last 3-4 months. Might I also mention that with the holiday season upon us and the increase of traffic and RAIN, running errands is even less desirable. As if taking clothes to the dry cleaners or picking up air filters for the furnace was ever that enjoyable in the first place.....

I am thankful it is over but truly I wish it were all over- including the internship interviews and placement for next year. Sometimes I wish it were more about "getting there" then about the "process of getting there" because the process is the hardest part.

Thanks for all your prayers and encouragement!

Prelim or Bust

2007-11-27T20:11:00.000-08:00

Well tomorrow is a big day for me as I am scheduled to present my dissertation proposal to my committee. I am seeking their approval and the green light to start collecting the data. After 12 years of volunteer schooling, I am both aware of how blessed I am to have the opportunity to gain this education as well as the exhaustion I currently feel as a result of this pursuit. I wish my presentation tomorrow brought closure but I am aware that this marks another beginning. If I pass I will start collecting the data like a mad women as I aim to have it all gathered by the end of this semester so I can start analyzing the data and writing up the results and discussion during the summer. I want to be done with this project by the time I leave for internship. It will take more hard work and discipline to meet this goal.

Please keep me in your prayers tomorrow from 4-6 as I present. I'll post the outcome......

4 months and counting

2007-11-25T21:51:00.000-08:00

Can't believe it has been four months since my last entry. I made promises and failed to keep them.... This semester has been the hardest for me so far and I found extra words were few and far between. I am looking forward to catching up on sleep- not sure this is possible- and spending time with friends and family. I must admit that knowing we are likely to be leaving this summer stirs up a desire to disconnect now. It is hard to think about all I'll miss while away. The closer the reality of moving comes the less appealing it sounds. Thats all for now.

No more blogging promises- just one day at a time.

29 has come and gone

2007-07-02T00:37:00.001-07:00

I celebrated my 30th birthday last week..... I had a wonderful day and felt very loved throughout the evening as I was surrounded by good friends. Here is to another year of love, peace, and hope.

good smelling things....

2007-06-09T11:37:00.000-07:00

I love this scent.

An unpredictable story...

2007-06-08T13:34:00.000-07:00

It is my belief that we all live according to a narrative. The stories we tell ourselves are powerful promoters of thoughts, feelings and actions. I see the outworking of this in my marriage. The other day in an argument, Jason questioned my conclusion about his behavior. I discovered that my interpretation of the situation was based on one of the roles I've traditionally scripted Jason to play. Here are a few of the stories I tell myself and the consequential behavior it leads to.

1. I am the hard worker in our marriage and he is the smart one - I clean and he reads
2. Jason is a night owl and Kara is the early bird- He tucks me in nightly and I try to rouse him in the wee hours of the afternoon.
3. Kara is the emotional one and Jason is the logical one- Kara plays the emotionally disturbed individual while Jason is the hero who convinces her that all is well.

These stories are true in part but are far from the whole. The high price for the type of black and white certainty I am drawn to is FREEDOM and HOPE- for change. In addition, I often lack acceptance of change when it inevitably occurs. Caught in the prescribed roles of my story I forget that both Jason and I possess the ability to create our own lines. I like scripts as they provide a sense of security, I can read ahead and know how it is all going to turn out. The script I've been living by and imposing on my husband isn't consistent with the Christian narrative I embrace as it lacks the potential for human change and growth.

This week we laughed at some of our recent observations:
1. On several occasions Jason has dragged me to bed after midnight.
2. Jason cleaned the toilet.
3. He was up 2x this week before me
4. He showered before we went out and I didn't!
5. A recent conversation:

Kara: lets invite people over
Jason: tonight?
Kara: how about right now?
Jason: I thought you'd want us to clean up the place first?
Kara: It's not that messy.

I blogged a few weeks ago about my new found appreciation and enjoyment of surprises- I think my thoughts today are connected. I am eager to be surprised as Jason and I create the pages of our novel together- i love unpredictable books that hold me in suspense and force me to read on......

a good morning

2007-06-08T13:00:00.000-07:00

Jason and I actually did it- we planned a coffee date at Stumptown before he left for work at 11:00 today and we followed through. For most this activity might seem commonplace however for Jason and Kara this is anything but ordinary. Jason likes to sleep in and I am usually consumed with my morning "to do" list. I was thankful this wasn't the case this morning as we walked hand in hand to our local Stumptown dealer. We sipped coffee and read together for an hour. It was Jason who had to take off first while I stayed to finish my book. What a wonderful way to start my day.

I just finished reading...

2007-06-08T12:38:00.000-07:00

This was a thought provoking book- religiously and politically. I am eager to hear other's thoughts on the ideas presented by Ayaan Hirsi Ali.

Things I've come to enjoy

2007-05-25T10:11:00.000-07:00

1. knitting anywhere- on the bus, in line at the coffee shop, in the car, watching Law & Order
2. Stumptown coffee- you can always count on a good cup of coffee.
3. Taking a break after working hard
4. Candle lit showers
5. morning workouts
6. staying up late
7. Riding the bus- we have a great public transportation system
8. Music and concerts
9. The crisp morning air
10. reading
11. the online dictionary and thesaurus
12. living with house-mates
13. apple juice sweetened cranberries- yum, yum
14. Fall
15. Blueberries and Cream
16. Variety- in my schedule, clothes and food
17. Popcorn with brewers yeast
18. Camping at the beach
19. NPR
20. Jason's sense of humor
21. Saturdays without a TO DO LIST- that means no chores either.
22. blogging
23. mix matched outfits- "variety is the spice of life" so my husband tells me.
24. a man's hand touch in the garden

Jason brought these in from the yard today- they remind me of my mom. When I was a child we typically had a vase, in the center of the kitchen table, filled with colorful roses. My mother tended to the roses back then much like Jason tends to ours now.

25. working in the yard with Jason- it is fun to work on projects together!

Here is our first section of new grass. Looking at our house from the street, this is the far left side of our driveway. Our neighbor re-did his entire lawn with sod over the weekend and upon completion found that he had a few pieces left over, so he offered them to us. Yesterday, we tilled, raked, and leveled the ground in preparation of the sod. We are excited to transform the outside of our home.....

We decided to make the rest of the long strip (it goes all the way back to the end of our property line in the backyard, alongside the garage)part of the vegetable garden. We will get some good top soil and see what we can grow this late in the season.

26. I've also come to enjoy the saying, "SOME is better than none."

unraveled at the seams

2007-05-24T16:54:00.000-07:00

Since we bought our tickets to NY in February, I have been planning on making significant progress on Jason's birthday sweater of 2003. Yes, I am aware that it is 2007 and that I have taken the sweater apart more times than I care to admit- so it is a work in progress, just like me. Back to the point- flying and knitting. I had envisioned a peaceful trip with my needles in hand and my yarn taking on an identifiable shape. My naive fantasy involving circular and double pointed needles in mid-air reveals the absence of any flying adventures I've had in the last seven years. Not until today, when a co-worker told me of her disdain for airport procedures, were my dreams of spools of yarn and rounds of needles ruined. I inquired and learned the many "No, No's" of the airfield. It is sad that knitting needles are now considered weapons. Can't blame a girl for having big dreams- the smile on her husband's face when she finally gave him his long awaited birthday gift. I look forward to the day when LOVE not hate and violence prevails- when the lamb will lay down with the lion again.

He said what?

2007-05-14T18:56:00.000-07:00

Jason: While I am gone, I need you to clean our bedroom.

As most of you know Jason has spent the last 7 years trying to get me to STOP cleaning. His love of learning was contagious and so instead of cleaning, he talked me into reading. I was excited to join Jason's world and as a result we currently house 5 book shelves worth of books and neither of has completed our final degree..... With each year of education the time allotted for cleaning gets scaled down. With the purchase of our home last year and all of the work that it required, my cleaning time become non-existent. And thus we arrive in the present and find Jason- the man who had almost convinced me that cleaning was an overrated luxury, similar to showers so he tells me, not a necessity- asking me to use my god-given cleaning abilities to rid our bedroom of dirt and dust. It was a request that I fantasized about many a nights over the course of our relationship. I also had an insight about the dynamics of our cyclical cleaning battles, "maybe I haven't exposed Jason to enough dirt?" This thought was succeeded by the following conversation...

Jason: "Kara, what's this pink stuff in the shower?"

Kara: "MOLD!"

Jason: "I've never seen pink mold in our bathroom."

Jason, a few minutes later: "how do you get it off?"

Kara: "clean."

This week Jason changed one of the long standing narratives in our relationship; Kara cleans and Jason doesn't notice. Jason not only noticed and requested the dirt be CLEANED, he also cleaned his first toilet in 7 years and scrubbed his first bathroom floor. When I awoke, my bathroom sparkled- I am convinced that he too possess the cleaning gift he just hasn't had the need or chance to use it yet:)

Surprised

2007-05-12T16:11:00.000-07:00

Just the other day I discovered how much I love surprises. I am someone who likes to be in control, so surprises have never been that attractive. However, my house-mate surprised me with a gift and I can't tell you how much I enjoyed it. The gift was wonderful but the thought that went into it was the real treat..... Below is a picture of the CD I was pleasantly surprised with.

PS- FEIST will be in Portland on June 25Th at the Crystal Ballroom.

Currently listening to....

2007-05-12T15:45:00.000-07:00

yet another great find by my Jason. So some women are greeted with flowers or possibly a freshly cleaned house when they get home, but my husband fills our lives with music.

Our Second Bathroom

2007-05-05T13:34:00.000-07:00

This is a view of the laundry area and bathroom coming down the stairs from the kitchen. At this point we had put up the walls to separate the 2 rooms, finished the plumbing, and filled in the big dirt hole with cement. You can see our patch-work behind the laundry sink.

The view from the stairs is much more endearing now.

You are looking at the back wall of our bathroom. The pipes have been inspected and we are ready to finish the framing.

This is the shower stall- we had to frame in the pipes that hung down from the ceiling so my father-in-law made it match the shower floor. What would we have done without Father Art?

With the help of my brother-in-law Joel, we got awesome tile and with the help of my mom we laid the tile in the shower- you never know when a tube of liquid nails will come in handy. I now keep an emergency supply in my furnace room- just in case.

This was a team project: Jason's great idea to use the same tile for the counter top- I love it! Kara and Father Art's team work to get it laid and finally Father and Son grouted and sealed the deal.

Now for the finishing touches- mirror above the sink, drawer knobs, paint the baseboards and the walls that we messed up while tiling and putting in the cabinet and toilet. We are so close to having 2 functional bathrooms- the hard work has been well worth the almost finished product! Jason and I couldn't have done it without the help of our family- thank you for the time, energy, and love that you've poured into our home.

The Robinson Family

2007-05-01T19:39:00.000-07:00

that's right- and baby makes three. Paul and Annie- (2 of the most wonderful people I know and if I was a betting women,I'd say 3 because Elias is one of the best combinations around)- welcomed their son into the world on April 14Th. On Saturday, I meet baby Elias and enjoyed the company of my good old neighbors. I recalled the days when J and I could just stroll over and say hi- no plan or gas money needed. Paul and Annie are salt of the earth kind of people. Paul is honest- "Kara, you know you really aren't humble" and Annie, she is sugar and spice and everything nice- except when she is telling J to shut up on the deck of our third story apartment. See why Jason and I like them, they keep us in line for each other......... We are blessed to have friends like Paul and Annie! check out the Robinson's Adventures @ http://parobinson.wordpress.com/

Another month.....

2007-04-01T18:00:00.000-07:00

Just taking a break from the books and thought I would inform you of my recent activities...... I am in over my head with school work! The pressure is on as the semester winds down. I am overwhelmed with thought of all I need to complete before the end. In 1 month School is out for summer . Although I have completed the credit requirements for my degree, I am contemplating taking a class in the summer- I must be a glutton for punishment. Summer courses are always much lighter and it is only one class verses four or five at a time. Although a full summer off from classes might just be the break I desperately need to recharge. The closer I get to being done the harder it is to stay focused and committed. I dream of a life without the pressure of due dates and late night cram sessions. I want a job I leave on Friday and don't think about until I return on Monday. I know the grass is always greener on the other side- that is how I got myself into another degree. I was working full time and wishing I could be a student again.... Now I am a student and am wishing for a 9-5 job. I am very thankful for the opportunity to get another degree. Jason has been so generous to support, encourage and walk alongside me. Without the love and continual support of my family and friends I would not be where I am- I am so blessed!! Thanks to you all for being patient with me and for listening to all the woes of my educational experience. I am truly grateful.

I'm still here

2007-02-15T18:27:00.000-08:00

Don't give up on me yet. It has been a week and counting since my last post. I have been busy reading my textbooks and planning for the future. It is hard to report on the present as I spend way to little time enjoying it. One day, one day - "if not now, then when" Tracy Chapman replies (this is off one of her early CDs). I don't do a good job of balancing all of the things I want to do, like to do, have to do and should do. My wise husband sums it up well, "Kara, your problem is that you have a full plate but you want to be a part of the clean plate club."

What I am listening to these days....

2007-02-01T21:47:00.000-08:00

I first started listening to Sherri Youngward when I was in Bible College. I forgot her name but ran into the college friend who first introduced me to Sherri's work and she reminded of the musician's name. My housemate got me this CD for Christmas and I am really enjoying it. I like the many scripture verses she incorporates into her music. Listening helps me remember my calling in this life- to serve God and others. I like music that encourages me to try and do what I was created to do- LOVE......

Ladies, he's my handyman

2007-01-20T20:41:00.000-08:00

A while ago Jason heard a scratching noise on the side of the house. He went outside only to find a squirrel in the left eve of our attic. It had already chewed two holes and didn't appear to be afraid of rocks or sticks. So Jason borrowed a neighbor's cat trap and tried to attract it with peanut butter and my favorite stash of nuts in the house- pecans. After a few weeks and no sign of the squirrel we thought our little problem had resolved itself. However, Jason heard the same noise on the other side of the house and sure enough when he went outside our pet squirrel greeted him. This time Jason left the trap outside under the right eve in hope that on the squirrel's way up the house he would get distracted by the aroma of nuts. Yesterday Jason checked the cage and sure enough his plan had worked. Jason and our good friend Jeremiah took the squirrel for a little ride and dropped him off at his new home- the forest. We are hopeful that this was the only squirrel living in the eves but just in case there are more, the cage is repositioned and we are eager to give another squirrel a new, better home. Watch out squirrels- Jason is on the loose and he's much more than your average handyman.

Comfort Clothes

2007-01-18T14:35:00.000-08:00

I have officially had the longest weekend ever- 6 days and counting..... I have enjoyed the time at home and am surprised by my productivity despite the inclination to just lie around and soak up the snow. Burr- it has been cold around here. I have found myself layering up each day for warmth and for comfort. In fact for the last 3 days I have layered myself up in the exact same clothes everyday. Yep that's right the same clothes, everyday- Jeans, tank top, thermal and a sweater I bought with my cousin at goodwill when I was 16. You might be tempted to attribute this crazy behavior to the weather but let me dissuade you my friend because on most weekends I do the same. I have favorite comfy clothes for each season and I look forward to wearing them often. Not to mention that it cuts down on the morning routine to already have an outfit that's not only picked out but tried out. I misled you when I disclosed this behavior was isolated to the weekend. During the week I spend my days at a variety of places- school, work and practicum. It is common for me to shuffle between 3 outfits for the whole week (and sometimes just 2 ). I think this behavior is innate. My niece has a favorite shirt and if her mom let her she would wear it around the clock- trust my sister did not nurture this sort of behavior. I like the simplification this adds to my life and I admire the kid in me that enjoys this so.

It is FINISHED.............

2007-01-17T19:38:00.000-08:00

I am proud to announce that I received my PGRE scores and finally obtained a passing score, as established by the program I am in. I have mixed feelings about the test as it was difficult for me on several levels. I re-established that I am not a good test taker and resented the fact that my status would be based on my ability to answer multiple choice questions. In fact this seems like the very thing they instruct us not to do with our clients. I am more than a score on a standardized assessment. How hard it was not to base my worth on the results of a test. I was constantly forced to consider my status in the eyes of my creator. WHO AM I? I asked myself over and over and by the last test I had come to the reality that even if I never passed this test I would still be able to fulfill my call to love others as Christ loves me. And maybe in some way- because of the challenge I faced, I am more able to love others who struggle in this area because I experienced the pain myself. The pain of this process was advantageous for my spiritual and emotional life. The process nonetheless was not enjoyable but the opportunity to become more Christ like treasured.

Baby, its cold outside

2007-01-16T14:03:00.000-08:00

This is the view from our local coffee shop on a snowy winter day. I was ready for a hot drink and a good book after I had waited at the bus stop for 45 minutes and still no sign of a bus. It was a nice day off to hang out and play with the roomies..... We played games (I can't believe how competitive I get) and watched the musical DREAMGIRLS at our local pub theater. Jason even came along- he found no enjoyment in the movie. In fact as we sat in the dark theater I looked over to find his head in his hands and possibly his fingers plugging his ears. Tomorrow classes have a late start with the possibly that they will be cancelled altogether:) I must admit that a 5 day weekend sounds lovely. Everyone needs a break once in awhile- hope you are enjoying yours to the fullest.

How to be in this world but not a part of it?

2007-01-14T14:49:00.000-08:00

Lately, I have been thinking about how I spend money. I wish I had the answers, to what is for me a difficult situation. Money is one of those things that you can't do without and yet it is so easy to over do it. I feel sucked into the consumerism- justifying what I have and what I want to more of. Honestly, I don't typically sit at home and day dream about the things I want or need. I often feel content with all that I have but when I am out and about I want, want, want.... It is like when I am out I forget about the overabundance that I have at home. I become unattached of the plush world I live in and reason that I must have more. When I get home and realize that my closet is overflowing, I am embarrassed and I promise myself I won't buy any more but the cycle inevitably starts again. When I went to Africa I didn't think about what I was wearing or if I fit in, I spent my time with the people and enjoying them.
So I am left asking myself how do I consume and not buy into the consumeristic mentality- for me it is a slippery slope! When can I get the things I like even if it means spending a little more? How do I enjoy the things I have and remain content even when I go out? It is so easy for me to find joy in things! I also see shopping as a stress reliever- I used to be able to window shop and not buy but somehow I buy into society's messages that "more is better" and "that my old stuff isn't good enough" or that "I woudl look so cute and I deserve to look cute" etc... Some of the people I admire most are those who have an abundance but who live mindfully of God and others. Their focus is not things but relationships.

Leaving on a jet plane, don't know when I'll be back again.

2007-01-14T14:24:00.000-08:00

Well it looks like, for the first time since we have been married Jason and I will be traveling this summer. I grew up taking car trips to California every summer to see family and to enjoy the sunshine. When not visiting family for our holiday, it was typical for us to drive hundreds of miles to site see and vacation. In fact some of my fondest memories are of the family driving through the night, sleeping in the car and using the trucker's bathrooms to shower and get ready for the next leg of the trip. I thought this was how all families vacationed. So now that I am all grown up and married I find out that not all families vacationed this way. Needless to say Jason does not like long car rides and in fact he is pretty content staying home. This does have its up sides too. However, it means that we do not travel much. I must admit that every summer we do get away, just not far away. All this to say that, we are planning a trip to New York this summer to see Jason's sister and some college friends. It all started when a friend from school offered us some tickets as her husband works for a airline (THANK YOU L). At this discounted rate Jason and I decided to try something new. Mostly because this summer might be our last opportunity for a while to go East. Generously, Jason agreed to site see and let me plan some of the trip. So - we are flying into DC (neither of us have been there) and meeting up with his sister's family, then we'll be off to Boston (another location neither of us have been) we will then head to upstate NY to stay with Jason's sister. Hopefully while we are there we will visit Montreal (yet another location we have not seen). The last half of our trip will be spent with our college friends and their little boy and new baby. We will head up to NY for a few days and fly out there. I am really excited about the trip and can't wait to see our family and friends.

How to find a good book?

2007-01-09T23:33:00.000-08:00

I am currently reading this great book my friend Annie suggested. I love reading but do not have the patience to pick up a book and find out if it is good. Lucky for me I have friends who seem to find really good books and then pass them along to me. I have yet to be disappointed.

an outing with a friend

2007-01-06T16:56:00.000-08:00

One of the highlights of the holiday break was

spending time with friends and family. Annie- is one of the most enduring shoppers I know. We often fill our time together running around town. She is also one of the cutest pregnant women I have ever seen. Annie dreamed of the day she would carry her own child and now that she is blessed with the opportunity, she carries him with pride and honor. It is a pleasure to watch Annie grow and bloom into a beautiful mommy. Elias is so lucky to have the Robinson's as parents.

Nephews: who could live without them?

2007-01-06T15:49:00.000-08:00

Nephews and nieces are one of the best parts of the Holidays.

What to talk about?

2007-01-06T15:29:00.000-08:00

Fellow bloggers-
I sometimes don't blog because I am not sure what to talk about. Do any of you face the same dilemma? I can hear my friends, "what Kara has nothing to talk about?" It is not that I couldn't talk about many, many things- I somehow have this notion that blog-talk must be noteworthy. The content of the blog should be deep and lengthy. When following such guidelines the blog becomes a chore, as each entry requires a great deal of creativity and forethought. YIKES! The blogs I enjoy most are those that are often short in length and informative about the blogger. I love my friend Annie's because she offers a variety of blogs- some deep, some funny, some thought provoking, and some informative. After her, proud three years of blogging, it appears she has the hang of it or maybe it just comes natural for a girl like Annie. I am hopeful that I too will get the hang of it.

The Gift Exchange.....

2006-12-26T18:22:00.000-08:00

After hearing a wise man speak to me about how Christmas is truly just a gift exchange and materialism at its worst- I am considering the idea of making my gifts next year. I like the idea of giving something I have made and that I think will be meaningful for the other person. I have made a few of my gifts in the past but am considering making them all? I am looking for gift ideas. Got any? Have you made gifts in the past that impressed you and that you would love to pass on? Feel free to share your ideas with me.

Hoping and Wishing and Praying

kara

Here we go again.....

2006-12-26T14:58:00.000-08:00

A year later and I am hoping to keep up with my blog better this time around. I started out strong but lost steam quickly. I so enjoy reading my friend's blogs and am hopeful they will enjoy reading mine too.

Speaking of friends- I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas. I was surprised by how quickly it came and went.... It was easy for the day to slip away and to be caught up in the American way of celebrating. Each year I hope that the next will be different and that I will spend more time celebrating the birth of my Savior.

May the Peace of Christ never leave you alone.

kara

Cabbage Patch Kids

2006-01-05T16:27:00.000-08:00

My niece Amelia received her first cabbabe patch doll this year for Christmas. Throughout the day she enjoyed changing her baby's clothes and diaper several times. As I watched her play childhood memories flooded my mind. The hours I spent playing with my cabbage patch dolls were numerous. It feels like just yesterday that I was that kid who was too excited for Christmas and all the gifts it ensured. However, I realize that my feelings about X-mas have evolved over the last few years. I am desirous for the reason behind the season to play a larger role in the holiday festivities. Our church does a really good job of remembering and celebrating the meaning of Christmas. A weekly service involving a meal, scripture readings and fellowship is offered during the weeks leading up to the day of Christ's birth. I have only attended a few of these services but have found them to be fulfilling. Honestly I find it satisfying to give and receive gifts from friends and family and see nothing wrong with this tradition. I am guilty however, of making gifts the focus of Christmas. I love new insights and am convinced that with each passing year I will be more intentional on how I choose to celebrate the birth of Christ.

Reunited

2006-01-05T16:11:00.000-08:00

Reunited and it feels so good. Holly and I went to high school together but went our separate ways after graduation. My mom ran into Holly and they exchanged phone numbers. I called Holly and we instantly connected again. Jason warned me not to scare her off but it turns out that the feelings were mutual- we were both very excited about our long overdue reunion. It has been almost three years since our reunion and I can't imagine my life without Holly. I am thankful for the open and honest friendship we share.

The Happy Couple

2006-01-05T15:57:00.000-08:00

Johansen Public Display of Affection..... So I had to bribe Jason to pose for this picture but the facade is convincing. We are enjoying the holiday break and the extra time we have had together. Marriage has been so good for me. I am thankful for the life Jason and I share.

It's a Tea Party

2006-01-05T15:25:00.000-08:00

Johnson family tradition states that tea parties are incomplete without the adornment of strainers. Coffee cake, ice cream, and a variety of teas made this tea party complete. It is always a PARTY with the Johnsons. It is so satisfying to talk and laugh with good friends.

The Secret Recipe

2006-01-05T15:15:00.000-08:00

Our friend Eden came over to watch Murderball and during inermission she made us one of her sorority's secret delicacies. Jason really thinks these wonderbread sugar laced treats are the bees knees. These were the perfect addition to the documentary debut. Murderball is intersesting and worth seeing. Happy viewing.......

In the beginning....

2006-01-05T14:57:00.000-08:00

And on the 8th day man created blogs, and God saw that it was good.
So this is how it all began... Annie came for a visit and she inspired me to start a blog. I am excited to write and share my thoughts. Hopefully my friends will enjoy communicating with me via this new venue.

Take care,
Kara