Remember When...Imagine It.

As I sit here, listening to some lovely piano music, I glance at the cover art. It's amazing how a simple
image can transport you back in time. This image happens to be some leafy green trees swooping out
over bushes and green grass, warmed by the glow of a golden sunlight. It pulls me back to when I
was 4-6 years old. I either think of visiting a kind older lady, a friend, or just being at home.
Afternoons consisted of a nap, playtime, and a snack. I would look outside on a green, golden lit
world and joy in either dreaming of or actually playing in it. (By the way, I still firmly believe in such
a routine, no matter how old you are. ;) )

What warm memories delight you today?

Random '80's Happy Thoughts

I've been feeling really nostalgic lately...the '80's was when I was really little. I started having clear
memories when I was 2 yrs. old, so I remember some of what adults dressed like, etc. The
bright happiness of rainbows, or the soft effect of the cinematography is not lost on me. I love that
soft glow that they somehow infused into movies. Not all are like that, I understand. But really, it
is cool. Here're some happy thoughts from the '80's for me. Some are memories, others are from
research.

• Pacman (Woot, woot, neeeeerum...beep beep!)
• '80's nintendo game console, complete with Super Mario Bros.
• Strawberry Shortcake ( As in the cartoon. Nothing BUT the original!)
• Big, curly hair
• teased bangs
• eyeshadow: gray, blue, and yellow
• lipstick: pink, peach
• Barbie with glorious, long blonde hair and decked out in candy pinks,blues, and cherry reds
• jelly sandals (I admired those when I was around 3-4 yrs. old)
• jelly bracelets
• gloriously huge sunglasses with dipped temple arms (!!!)
• My '80's vintage acid wash denim biker jacket (It puckers and poofs in all of the right places.)
• Big earrings, namely colorful hoops
• Quiffs! Oh, I am SO loving the fact that they are making a comeback! This hairdo is awesome on guys. Longer on top, short on the sides. This look can be polished or breezy. Just comb back and let the whisps brush the forehead. :)
• Cropped cardigans
• boat shoes
• granny boots
• sweater dresses
• Lace tops. Oh my word. I've waited since I was 8-9 years old for these to come back. It's a dream come true!
• Dolman Sweaters
• Tights. I love to wear these with dresses and skirts.
• Bandanas knotted into a bow on the top of my head.
• Rainbows on clothes and jewelry.

What's something happy you can think about today?

My Gummy Bear Heaven and '80's Hair

So I've got an obsession with gummy bears, or gummies in general. My dear friend Rachel,
in all thoughtfulness, brought home a large gummy bear on a stick for me. Of course I'm thrilled!
I had to capture this delightful creature. Thanks SO much to Rachel for getting him for me!

On a side note, I'm totally digging many '80's trends right now. Not all, some. :) So here
you go. My teased bangs and side pony. How fun. :) Also note the yellow eyeshadow and
bow. :)

Yay! My Split End Prevention Plan :)

As some of you know, I am obsessed with long hair. I've managed to grow my very fine hair down

to my waist. This is very exciting for me...and I'd like to see just how much longer I can get it. Most
of the time my hair damages very, very easily...esp. in the winter months. I recently purchased some
"Everyday Shea"  shampoo and conditioner in huge bottles from Whole Foods market. The formula is
so rich that it made my hair look dirty after 2 washings. I was a bit disappointed, and tried to figure
that maybe I would use it for every other washing. I did that for awhile. After being disappointed about
both extremes of extremely oily, then extremely dry and static-y, I opted to experiment. I washed
with a regular shampoo (you can use just about anything that has a very effective surfectant), then
followed with "Everyday Shea" shampoo. Concentrate the shampoo on the roots, then use the rest
very lightly through the length. When using the conditioner, focus on the length, not the roots. Shea
butter is so rich that it works hard to saturate and protect. I follow this routine with argan oil, gel, or
a mixture of both. If you're going to use gel, use a kind that DOES NOT have alcohol in it. You can
find argan oil on Etsy.com. This stuff is so amazing! I only use about a quarter sized amount for my long
hair: it's just that rich. Otherwise I recommend Garnier Nutrisse hair oil. I've also read that jojoba oil
is an awesome option, as well (I have yet to try this one). Anyway, I hope you find this helpful. After
years of trying to pamper my hair and prevent damage, I have finally met with success. I hope you find
this helpful. My split ends are now few and far between! Praises be! :D

Things I'm Grateful For

It's that time of year where people stop to really think about what they are thankful for. I've paused

to think lately, at the prompting of others, as well as just seeing how truly fortunate I am, about the many

things that I am grateful for.

I AM GRATEFUL FOR:

1)The security I have in my salvation in Christ Jesus:

(To better understand the plan of salvation, you can go to  http://bible.org/article/gods-plan-salvation .)

"For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Rom 8.38-39)

2) God's gift of all 5 senses, and the full use of my assets. I can see, smell, touch, taste, and hear. I can

walk/run and work with my hands. I can serve others. How wonderful!

3) God's gift of beauty. He didn't give us a flat, grey world. He chose to give us many wonderful things to

enjoy. A sunset with inky black tree silhouettes, flowers, vibrant fall leaves, and the toasty smells of

leaves and wood burning. All of these are Autumn delights that I treasure. I also just love the smell of the

leaves changing along with the crispness of the Fall air.

4) Again, coffee. :) I had an amazing cup of peppermint coffee this morning. I also love my cinnamon

cappucinos.

5) Cozy blankets, and warm hoodies.

6) Friends to share in laughter.

7) My dear friends' precious baby girl Ariana. :) I'm just a little biased. She's very precious.

8) I am amazed that God allowed me to travel abroad this year. Lately I've taken it more for granted;

but when I really thing about it, it's astounding. God actually let me do what I've been dreaming of

doing! It makes me wonder what other incredible things He has in store for me.

What are you thankful for? Make sure to stop and count your blessings. It just might turn your day around! :)

Jimmy Dean "Low Cloud" Commercial

So I was in the middle of catching some of Martha Stewart's show on TV, and another ridiculously
goofy ad came on. As soon as the solution was given to the problem in the ad, I couldn't help
laughing out loud. As at least a few of you know, I am VERY MUCH a morning person, and strongly
understand and approve of the solution for the "low cloud". :D

God's Encouragement in the Small Things

Do you ever have days where you doubt yourself and your aspirations? I don't know of
anyone who doesn't have those off-days when discouragement sets in. However, if we
stop and look around us, God whispers to us in some of the most unexpected ways. I
can be in a gift shop, and there will be something with a Scripture verse or an inspirational
quote that leaps out at me. More often than not I am not even looking for something
to supply my need at the moment. It was placed there for a reason. God knew I would need
it to be there when I looked up at that very moment.

Today's encouragement was handed off to me by Gramma in the form of a Dove chocolate.
It reads simply: "Keep believing in yourself and your dreams."

So, you out there. Are you doubting what God has in store for your life? We all have those days,
don't we? We all need to be reminded on a regular basis that, even when things don't go the way
we planned, that God has our best interest at heart. It's always hard when you're in the moment.
Keep in mind Jeremiah 29:11 which reads:

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm
you, plans to give you hope and a future."

Believe that God will help you to be all that you need to be in every moment that He gives you!

Autumnal Happy Thoughts/Beautiful Things

Here are some happy thoughts of late~

~A gracious spirit.
~A warm, infectious smile.
~A deep, sparkling joy that only God can provide.
~Generosity.
~Humility.
~Playfulness.
~Anything floral~Wildflowers, clothes, hair pieces, journals, and jewelry.
~Hanging clothes out on the line, then experiencing the freshness afterwards.
~Feathers.
~Lace, always lace.
~Clear blue skies filled with fluffy white clouds and pure, golden sunshine.
~Acorns.
~Autumnal leaves in hues of gold, rust, plum, and wine.
~Pumpkin~pies, bars, pumpkin spice lattes, cheesecake, etc.
~Apples~cider, crisp, and pie.
~Thick, cable knit sweaters.
~Praying by the riverside.
~My deep red boots with the buttons up the sides.

THE RESUME A MOTHER SHOULD HAVE

I realize that I am NOT a mother...I am, however, the oldest child in my family. I've also
paid really close attention to the roles that mothers play in the lives of their families. As
my own mother is on a vacation for a few weeks visiting her parents, I have thought even
more in depth about the important position of wife and mother. Whoever thinks mothers
hardly do anything is confused or uninformed! I have gained a deeper appreciation and
respect for mothers in general, and especially for the lady friends that God has allowed me
to be with. I am also appreciative for the experience that He is giving me in being able to assist
in this type of role, whether it be at home, with friends, or at church.

Read on to see what kind of a resume I think mothers should be allowed to
have (give or take whatever does or doesn't apply).

THE RESUME A MOTHER SHOULD HAVE

~Counsellor
~Psychologist
~Housecleaning
~Waitress/Cooking Manager
~Taxi Service
~U.S. Postal Delivery Woman
~Peacemaker
~Day Care Director
~Pharmacist
~Nurse
~Accountant
~Financial Aid Consultant

THANK YOU MOTHERS! What would we do without you?

European Fanta!

Ok, so I'm not just a little obsessed with this awesome beverage. Could it be nectar from
above? Has it really surpassed my coffee passion? Oh my stars! I daydream often about
the luxury that I experienced in Europe. Trust me, I love my coffee just as much as ever~
but FANTA! ... I've only tried lemon and orange, but would dearly love to try the other
flavors below!

So a cousin of mine linked me to an Amazon.com source where you can get it imported.
They only have it in stock at certain times, so I sign up to be notified when they have it.
I haven't buckled down and gotten any...YET. But let me just show you some of the options.
Fanta Fruit Twist:

Imported from Britain.

Shokata (Elderberry lemon):

Imported from Europe.

Cherry:

Product of Serbia.

Exotic:

Product of Macedonia.

Mandarin:

Imported from Europe.

Cream Soda:

Imported from Canada.

Lemon:

Product of Serbia.

Orange (ADORE!!!):

Imported from Europe.

It's nothing like what you can get in the USA; so if you ever get the chance to travel, or you just want
to try something novel, I highly encourage you to sample this amazing beverage! Enjoy! :)

"Es aprotu mazliet Latvijas." >" I understand a little Latvian."

One of my happy thoughts lately has been the Latvian language. The way it sounds. The rythm
that it makes when you speak it. The accent. I had no idea just how much I would like this
language. As I stayed in Latvia for a month, I learned many words. I didn't realize just how many
until I got home and typed out all that I could remember. In the middle of different conversations
I would be having with various people I would be like "Oh! I still need to add THAT one to my
list!"

As my visit to Latvia proved to be one of the most wonderful things I have ever experienced,
I want to learn more of the language as I aspire another visit. I want to be able to see the Latvian
people grin with delight as an American visitor greets them in their language. :) (Not that I haven't
experienced this already...I just want to do it in a more advanced way.)

My latest accomplishment is: "Es priecajos tevi redzet!" > "I'm happy to see you!"

I think that the above statement captures the overall sound of the Latvian language.

For a sample, you can check out this YouTube video that I've been using to add to my
vocabulary:

Catching up...again.

Sooo....another week is just about over, and I'm playing catch up again.

Monday was mostly spent getting ready for Gundar and Kathy's arrival.
Tuesday Elizabeth and I went to the market in Riga, then to the airport to wait
for Gundar and Kathy's arrival. They had a long, difficult trip as they had some
difficulty with a delayed flight, then missed their next plane. They had to wait for
another plane that would bring them to Riga. Originally scheduled to arrive at
11:00 in the morning, they didn't arrive until after 4:00. Elizabeth and I did lunch,
browsed magazines, had coffee, and visited all in the airport while we waited. It
was truly a pleasure to see Gundar and Kathy arrive safely!
Wednesday Kathy, Elizabeth, Rachel, Ariana and I did some more serious
shopping at some malls in Riga. I was worn out. I actually tired of shopping
that day!
Thursday the family and I went out to eat for Gundar and Kathy's 39th
wedding anniversary.
Friday (today) I wandered into Ogre with Rachel to a coupla large shopping centers,
came back and chilled here at the house.
Tomorrow looks like we're going to have some family cousins come to visit, then
*may* head back to Riga for some last-minute souvenir shopping.

Have a good day everyone!

To the Cave

Whee!

One of the several extremely long sets of stairs that I have encountered in Latvia.

Neat little bridge leading to the cave.

Just a sample of the many engravings that we saw.

A memorial, perhaps???

Rachel getting a close-up.

Matthew found his wading experience delightful.

Turaida Castle Pt. 2

I could be wrong, but I think this was an outdoor oven.

Ta-da!

Turaida Castle Pt. 1

Elizabeth and I were the ones to trek into this castle after Matthew, Rachel, and I had done the rope course.
Sorry, I don't have any pictures of that particular venture at the moment...but let's just say that those who
know Rachel can see pictures on her Facebook. You'll see just what a daredevil I was.:p Matthew and
Rachel were the most daring and conquered the 3rd level while I backed down. The first 2 levels were
enough for me. I had a blast and would actually dare to at least do the first 2 levels over again.

Anyway...here're pictures of the castle, me, and Elizabeth.:)

I'm wonder woman! Wait...it's attached to the wall.

The original in-floor heating.

I thought of my dad when I observed all of this.

Cesis Castle Pt.2

This part looks like the remains of a fortress outside of the castle...either that or a courtyard.



This is from the same room as that awesome ceiling, I believe. I love how soft and glowy it looks.



I took this picture looking out of a window.

Matthew said that these stairs look like they need to be swept. I have to agree with him. For some reason this tickled my funny bone.:)

Cesis Castle Pt. 1

Matthew and I were given the go-ahead as Rachel and Elizabeth had already seen the castle.

Matthew brandishing our lantern.

Front view.

According to all appearance and pictures, I assume that this is an outdoor oven. Pretty sweet. I wouldn't mind having some smoked meat from there, or a loaf of bread for that matter.:)

A place to vent. :p

I thought this swing was cool.

More castle ruins.

A tent with a spread of chairs. Looks to me like someone is ready either for a concert, a speech, or a reception.

Matthew looking epic as he dares to traverse the unknown.

Me looking not-so-epic...but I still think all of this is cool!

I found it interesting that this had wood and stone combined.

So interesting...a glowing passage. This looks like something you would imagine from a novel.

This ceiling made me exclaim in awe.

More soon!

Cars in Latvia Pt. 2

Here're the pictures as promised.:)