Cake Anyone?

I turn 51 tomorrow. I know I am getting older because I’ve moved the font size from 12 to 14. I look back on the past 12 months—a short 12 months and wonder how it is that time really does speed up. I am very clear in my memories of being 8 years old and how I was even 8 ½ years old for what seemed like forever. I don’t remember any part of the 1950’s but I have lots of memories of "time” starting for me during the early 1960’s. I could almost believe that the changes that have taken place over the last few decades could be a convincing argument that I was born on another planet—some would still agree that I was. Still I treasure most, some memories that now are only written about. Walking to school for kindergarten at the age of 4-- alone—the 6 to 8 blocks would never be safe for a 4 or 5 year old in today’s world. Trick or Treating in our neighborhood where there were literally hundreds of small children out walking the streets collecting “safe” candy without supervision—my Mom was at home passing out walnuts to the Trick or Treaters. I remember being in highschool before the dress code was changed permanently to allow girls to wear jeans to school. I ‘d like to say we’ve only moved in an upward direction but honesty would tell you that all that has changed our modern day world is not all good. Still, I look back on my 51 year history and feel richly blessed. Age and the aging process changes us, softens us, teaches us better I hope, to love each other. I hope I am a better listener, that I have a more gentle heart—I think I cry easier. I’d like to say age possibly even refines us—not just that as I have gotten older I “have” to sleep with a down pillow, or that the Burberry cashmere scarf my sister sent me for me birthday is one of the most heavenly feeling things I’ve had around my neck—it rivals the taste of really good dark chocolate. Amazing to me is that some of this refining doesn’t require developing a taste for—it’s immediate. Some of that refining is reflected in how my heart and eyes see life. My friendships mean more, my relationships with my family mean more, --anyone who knows any of my daughters will know and understand the gratitude that I feel daily for having them in my life. I read their blogs about the little people—my grandchildren-- in their lives and can only smile knowing that the pride I feel for my grown daughters is such a treasure to me. My faith continues to be an anchor and beacon that willingly hones and directs me—I need only listen. So here’s to 12 more months of being 51. My Mom is cooking Sunday dinner tomorrow—cake anyone?

It's Huskie Football

Isaac decided to go out for football this year. Because we were treking through most of the month of August, he got a late start with the preseason practicing. He said the first week was so hard he just wanted to quit. I was proud of him for "hanging in there" and toughing out the daily practices. Over the next several weeks a conditioned and smiling Isaac is wrapping up this season with his team--the Huskies. Isaac is attending a brand new middle school this year and so this is the first team for this new school--and they haven't had a great winning season. But, for #47 -- well, he's an all star :)

A Visit From A Sister

We were delighted this weekend to have Michelle visit from Utah. Her visits are never long enough and so here it is Monday and she's already left to return home--ok, to her job and her cat too. She spent some time looking at real estate as a possible home once she decides to make a nest someplace. We also did some shopping and had lunch at Rembrandt's. Visits from loved ones are never long enough or often enough. She plans on returning for Thanksgiving so until then--God speed and drive safe.

So, this whole "visiting thing" got me thinking about ALL the reasons WHY you would want to visit us here in Eagle--besides coming to see family--

1. We traveled all over the US this summer and I am honest when I claim that bar none--Boise has the very best car wash--I mean the best --and it's also affordable--like $5 and they have awesome vacuums--the kind that can suck anything you don't want in your car--wrappers of all sizes, somebodies worn out socks, and all the STUFF in the small little cracks you can never get but can still see.

2. We are only 20 minutes from the airport--anytime, day or night.

3. We are also only 20 minutes from the Boise Temple. I am willing to go with or babysit for anyone wanting to attend.

4. We have an awesome $1 theater here. Any new movie will hit the $1 theater in a matter of just a few weeks. They also have the BEST homemade carmel corn--the kind that's still warm but it doesn't stick to your teeth--oh and it's only a $1 too, along with drinks, and candy. By the way, their restrooms are clean too. I've been to more movies since moving to Eagle, than I have in the past 10 years.

5. If you're visiting during the summer, then we have rivers to float and lakes to swim and boat in--all about 20 minutes away. If you come in the winter, we have Bogus Basin, great for skiing and snow boarding--also about 40 minutes--from our door to the slopes.

6. We have some great shopping all within about 20 min. max. There's Home Fabrics for great deals on all sorts of designer fabric and lots and lots of trims and tassels--all at bargin prices. There's also a new favorite of mine Grabbles. It's a home decor store with GREAT prices open only and every Thursday. You can change the look in a room on the cheap and love it too. Another favorite for me here in Eagle is that I am only a few minutes away from 3 church book stores. I can stop in for a new read or just browse on my way home from the grocery store or the car wash. There are 2 more up scale malls that are planned for opening in the next year or so but I am minutes from the only Marshalls in the whole state of Idaho and of course we have Costco--Ernie's favorite--for lunch too--and Sams Club--what more could you want. :)

So perhaps I am pleading my case and recruiting all family, friends and loved ones--come for a visit--maybe, just maybe you'll like it or even love it and decide to stay.

Family Reunion Notes

Iam happy about the positive response to the family reunion. Sara suggested that a save the date be sent out to everyone to help get the word out and to have a reminder to pin next to your calendar. Lacey agreed to help with that task so this is a heads up to the save the date card that will find it's way to your mailbox in the next two weeks. Please let me know if you don't get the invite.