Imagine It: Uninhibited Flight Through Galaxies

I'm floating, flying through galaxies. Refreshing winds blow
about and support me. Everything is black--no, now there's a puff
of purple, a splash of magenta, and a dash of blue. I pick up
speed. Nothing is impossible as I soar through the stars and
let my imagination run wild.

I spin, dip, and lay on my back as I coast each current that comes
my way. It's all so amazing! I'm released into a state of
euphoria.

Now things are zooming in. I'm hitting the speed of light.
Streaks of magenta and white stream passed me, then blue,
into more sparkling black skies. Now I'm seeing a haze
of gold into more magenta. I slow down. I coast. I float. I'm still.
I pause in awe of the stars and planets as they orbit.

Fragrance of the Moment: Jewel by Mark

So this summer I've been more in the mood for what I would normally
consider an autumnal fragrance. I discovered, however, that it really does
suit a summer day more often than not. I've had it for several years, and
have been enjoying it immensely of late.

Jewel's notes include: Casablanca lily, macchiato flower, warm vanilla
and liquid caramel. I would say it's very sweet, feminine, and warm.


Interested? You can find some here. : )

Imagine It: Sunset Beach

Today in my imagination vacation I am going away to the beach. Soft zephyrs stir 

teal and aqua colored waters as they lap at the shore. The shore is golden, tan, 

and brown. I look up at the sky. It's as if God has taken a large paint brush with

watercolor paints and washed the sky in a gradation (bottom to top) of 

mandarin orange, peach, and pink smeared with sky blue and teal. I'm in a breezy

sundress, strappy sandals in hand as I let the powder soft sand seep between my

toes. I'm off to walk the length of the beach as I allow it all to sink in.

Carefree

I can see her now. A girl of ten dressed in a
fluffy white dress with short sleeves, and a hem
billowing around her knees. Golden blonde curls
frame her joyful little face, then tumble down
around her slender shoulders. Her countenance
is jubilant and liberated.

The day is deliciously good-sunshine warming
sky and earth with its cheerful glow. The rays
of this fiery orb are sheer liquid radiance. Come
away with this young girl and drink of what she
has to offer. Arms lifted high, she runs, skips,
and twirls through a meadow filled with long,
flowing grasses that wave and dance in the balmy
breezes. Her eyes twinkle with peace and
merriment. She has cast her care to the wind. She
is in her own rich, imaginative fairy tale.
She is carefree.

Grey Blue, Taupe, and Cherry Red

Hm, so what colors have I been craving this summer? Taupe, grey blue, and cherry red.

Taupe is very earthy, natural, and soothing. It's reminiscent of tree bark, driftwood, and
80's neutrals. It goes very well with my coloring, so that's a plus.

Grey blue is like a moody sea under an overcast sky. It's restless, yet it's relaxing as it ebbs
and splashes.

Cherry red is very, very cheerful. It's the perfect pop of color to go with the above neutrals.

What colors inspire you today?

Twilight Faerie Whimsy

Hues ranging from pink, blue, and lavender
creep up the serene sky as the earth succumbs
to twilight. Balmy breezes blow, and a
smattering of stars peek through the onset of
eventide. This is what dreams are made of.

Faeries lurk in their tiny homes waiting
for their rendezvous. Moonlight peers out from
above the sunset. Tall grasses wave
their greeting to the luminous orb as he smiles
down on them. Flowers lift up their essence as
a sweet offering of hospitality
to happy wanderers. Millions of fireflies dance
amidst all of it.

Trees reach up in inky black, lacey silhouettes
against the last hurrah of flaming pink sky.
The sun is going on holiday.

There they go! Did you see it? A turn of a
silvery faerie wing against an indigo sky,
tilted just so that the moonlight gilds it
ever-so-slightly. Soon you see another, and
another. They want to experience each blossom,
bud, and mysterious light sensation. They dance,
they fly. Each little faerie dressed to impress,
with the finest of silks, leaves, and tiny blooms
to adorn them. They are carefree, for where they
are is free from turbulence. ~*~

Gain Commercial - Revolving Door

For some reason the fact that the poor guy is so irresistably fresh, everybody just about has
their noses pressed to him, and the look on his face, cracks me up immensely. :D

Fine Summer Breezes

Today I am refreshed and renewed with the excitement of a beautiful day. The sun sparkles on and through everything. The temps are in the 80's, and the wind is balmy and refreshing. I love how said wind blows
through my hair as I go about my tasks. Today is a day where I am eager to check the mail or hang out the
laundry. The birds sing and talk to each other as they fly around and go about their chores. They love this
day too, and it shows.

The leaves dance. Everything is so alive, green, and colorful. The peonies nod in agreement, and the iris
sway in unison. How glorious! I feel like my batteries are recharged from the sun. It makes me happy.
I'm eager to soak it all up and get my tan. Summer is pretty much here.

More importantly, however, is the unexplainable joy that the Lord has seen fit to bless me with today.

Time to hang out some more laundry!

How have you been given joy today?

Earthy, Artisanal, and Mysterious: Imagine It.

Today I find myself very much in the mood for earthy, artisanal, and romantic things. Things that
speak of mystery and intrigue. Think of going into an old opera house just to explore. You find
an old piano and costumes. You wonder who the people were that wore these things, what
their lives were like, and how they would have felt dressing up in these garments. The colors
are gold, burgundy, burnt orange, black, mustard yellow, and chocolate brown...maybe with a
hint of luminous spring green touched by light golden yellow. Everything is warm, intriguing, and
inspiring. Think masquerades. Who played the piano? What was it like? You let your imagination
wander to the wonderful things that could have taken place in that room.

Other than that the more urban side is fascinating...scuffed black jeans and dark jackets and tops.
Women with blonde hair done big in the front with a chignon in the back, accented by hairsticks
or headbands. Men in their aviator shades with short hair tousled in the front, their faces shadowed
from lack of a razor. Everything is rugged, chic, elegant, or combination of suave and rustic...think
high heels and black ankle boots, or leather and pearls.

A mysterious evening out on the town, city lights and cool breezes tease you. There are friends
waiting to be made, discoveries yet to be had. Someone is wearing cologne with spices in it, and
the smell of exhaust and smoke mingles with the spice and cool of the evening. You go to a coffee
house, and the warm nuttiness of espresso reaches out and embraces you. Good conversation
and company are enjoyed by you and your friends. City lights twinkle around you.

Embrace mystery, wonder, and warmth. What intrigues you today?

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: