1.  Accept the Good

We watched Things We Lost in the Fire not long ago and I really liked it.  (caveat: adult themes involved, not everyone will love it)  There was something very engaging about Benicio Del Toro.  His great line in the movie was Accept the Good, because you are most certainly going to have to accept the bad.  That part is a given.  Into every life some rain shall fall etc.  The truth is pain and fear can make it nearly impossible to accept the beauty that is still there. It is all encompassing.  Some times in our lives it is a struggle to accept the good things still with us.  I disagree with some Christians who consider this ingratitude.  I think it is more like trying to hear a whisper in a snowstorm. It is a great skill, a great grace.  Sometimes it comes easily.  Sometimes it requires heroic effort.  

2.  Anne Rockwell

I smiled as I dropped Anne Rockwell books into the library bag this week.  I have been reading them to my children since the very beginning.  The simple retro-style  illustrations and honest, conversational text are endearing.  If you haven't picked one up in a while and you have some little ones at home, do.  

At the Supermarket

Show and Tell Day

Apples and Pumpkins

3. Adventures in Grocery Shopping

True story.  Happened as the bagger followed me to the car the other night:

Bagger (surveying my purchases): So, you guys havin' a party? 

Me: Uh no.  Just…. dinner.  We have 9 people in the house.

Bagger: Wow!  So, you have, like, 6 kids?  

Me: ?   (I explained we have 10 and 7 are here.  He still didn't catch his math.) 

Bagger: So how old is the oldest? 

Me: 25

Bagger: Wow, so, like, my age!  

Me: sigh : P <g>

4. And Southwest Asia

A better story. Brendan and Tess were discussing his catechism lesson.  Did God make all things?  Yes.  Because as Brendan explained God is King of the World.  Tess piped in that He was king of "Gern-a-mee" too. And Colorado.  Then they brainstormed some other places they could think of.  After which B chimes in… "and Southwest Asia!"  Yes, dear, and Southwest Asia.  He might possibly be a homeschooler. <g>

5. Thrift Finds

We scoped out a new thrift store this week.  Mostly a fact finding trip but I rarely leave empty handed.  Found some more salt glazed pottery, a large (18in) old crucifix and some kitschy painted pieces. 

When I came home from aforementioned grocery shopping husband had found places for each piece.  It's nice to have an thrifting enabler. <g>

6. Home Interiors

I found this site which hosts images of country style homes.  Some are too cute for my taste but I love the old pieces.  And I love that these are not professionally staged.  They are real homes.  

7.  Fence Friday