all quiet on the western (southern?) front

there are times when I don't feel like writing here. why not? not sure - it's not because I'm too busy, really, though I guess I'm always sort of on the go. Sometimes it's just because I'm feeling a bit morose, and my chipper witticisms are not forthcoming. And then I think, maybe I should have to some deep thoughts to express to the world... But I don't have any great ones. It's weird how we're made - us humans - to need relationships. My roommate thinks I'm on the phone all the time. My last roommate said the same thing. They may be right- I'm not nearly as good at quietness as I used to be. Is that less spiritual? Am I trying to fill my spiritual tank with people time? I think in large part that's what my tank needs, but I also know it needs more than that - like relating to God is real and I need to make space for it. I wish it were easy - like I just felt joyful every morning when I awoke. That's what heaven's for, I guess. : )

home again!

So - the roadtrip was a success. I got to see crowlo, her babies and hubby, and a plethora of precious people in D.C. I also almost got a date in D.C., while killing time in a starbucks. A couple of guys were sitting outside at a table directly across the glass wall from the table where I was sitting, and they started a conversation by writing on a napkin and putting it against the window! I thought it was cute. I'm a sucker. I also felt like since I didn't live there, there would be no harm in playing along. so, fellows, keep this in mind next time you see a cute chick at starbucks. : ) (caveat: I'm not claiming to be a cute chick, but these guys must have thought I looked interesting enough to converse with by napkin.)

That was NOT the highlight. the highlights were hanging out with babies (3 altogether), sleeping every night for almost as long as I wanted, and discovering who my friends have become. Crowlo is a veritable artsy crafsty mommy instructor person. And the D.C. family - amazing! From college sweethearts to mom and dad with a pumpkin for a son. The single folks I saw - you were equally valuable to my heart...and refreshing. Makes me remember I'm not behind - it's just that the "married with babies" folks are ahead. : )

Buying a condo. I'm going to do it. I shall live like a pauper for a little while, but I own a fold out couch in addition to my bed, so do not hesitate to visit!!!

I don't own much else. I'm ok with that.

cheers! E

roadtrip

I'm going on one. Starting now. Destinations: Binghamton, NY (to see CGR) and D.C. (to see 5 fabulous folks - one new folk. Born in July). I'll keep you updated, or give you a whirlwind synopsis when it's all over.

btw, it is gorgeous here! The leaves are starting the change, and it's absolutely breathtaking just driving home from work. I'm a fortunate gal. Feel free to visit.

rethinking feminism

Today I discovered a very good reason for getting married, or at least having some loyal male friend who will do anything for you.
Today, I mowed the lawn. O yes. It hadn't been done since July. 3 months. mmhmm. fortunately, we have a lot of trees, so only a small section was really overgrown. But, there were lots of limbs that had fallen, and I wanted the grass shorter before the leaves started falling in earnest, so it would not be a major pain to rake them.
My objectives:
1.pick up branches/limbs prior to mowing
2.rake areas not amenable to mowing (steep slope at front of yard)
3.mow lawn.

Sounds simple, right? hah! I spent almost 4 hours on these objectives. And I only finished the front lawn!!!! By the time I finished, it was pitch black outside, and had been for the last 1/2 hour of my work. I feel quite certain the neighbors suspect I'm, ahem, not quite right. But by the time I got the lawnmower to work properly, I was bound and determined to finish tonight. I could not stand the thought of still having it to do tomorrow. Thank goodness there were leaves on the grass, the reflection of which I could see from the street lamps, to show me where I needed to guide the lawnmower. It remains to be seen what kind of job actually got done - I'll be eager to take a peak at it in the morning when the sun comes up.

So, for all my feminist haranges, I do think that having a male-type person around do take care of such matters would be quite nice. Until then I shall consider moving into a condo where I don't have a yard to mow. : )

When I finished, I caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror
and was quite amused at my degree of dishevelment - I've included a picture for all to enjoy - my appearance and my mood. : ) !

where my treasure is...

So, I've been sitting around pondering how to save money, with this underlying anxiety about "what if I don't have enough for my loans/emergencies/etc." I was playing around with making a budget this am (I woke up at 4. I don't know why. but what else do you do when the rest of the world is sleeping?). anyway, I had gotten it all sorted out when I started reading my bible. Which I really wanted to do, mind you. And guess what I read??

Luke 12...
But God said to him," You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?" This is how it will be with anyone who stores up things for himself but is not rich toward God.
But seek his kingdom, and these things will be added to you as well.
For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Hah! so much for savings. But the question is, what does it mean? Who should I be giving money to? And should I, since I'm in a lot of debt.

But, I think it's true, and that I can either live a life that makes me feel like I am making myself secure, or I can live on the edge a bit. Not save enough to feel good about it, and instead try to give stuff away to people/causes that I think honor God.

the adventure continues...