(more daybooks at Peggy's )

FOR TODAY Nov. 8, 2010

Outside my window… sunrise and slush.  We had impressive snowfall the past few weeks followed by rain which left things a bit soggy.  The sunrise over the trees has been new and different daily.  It has become a ritual of mine to see what the day brings us in that regard. I am rarely disappointed. 

I am hearing… about 50% less than I was last week this time. It's been a rough week. We had a seemingly mild,  but surprisingly hard to shake, virus run through the house.  I honestly didn't feel terribly sick at all comparatively.  (though it is possible my pain perspective is a bit skewed)  Within a couple days my ear filled up, infected, and the eardrum ruptured.  Just. Like. That. At this writing there is still incredible pressure and hearing loss, which I am praying is reversible.  I am sporting a cotton ball, even broke down and am taking medication, and having flashbacks to my 6yo self – post ear tube surgery.  And let me tell you an ear tube would probably provide a good deal of relief at this moment. : / 

 Pondering these words…

"I had said to God, 'You know I have no time to be ill.' I was heard beyond my hopes and I boasted of it to myself a little. Then He seemed to answer, 'Since you have no time to be ill perhaps you will have time for much trouble?' And I assure you I have not been spared. You see, in this world it is like that. We must carry the cross in one way or another.  We say to our Lord, 'I don't want that.' Often He hears us but often alas! for our unhappiness. It is better to take patiently what comes to us. There is always joy beside the pain." – Zelie Martin (linked below)

There is always joy beside the pain. 

From the learning rooms…   Second quarter is off to a strong start.  I am more confident we will finish strong now that we have a better idea of what to focus upon for the quarter grades and what the school is expecting. It is challenging but the younger the student the easier the transition has been and the quicker they have developed the necessary study skills. 

From the kitchen… silly surprises. I was in a foggy viral daze the other day when I started cracking eggs.  I vaguely noticed some marker on the top of the egg in hand and assumed our grafitti artist had been there too. Then happened to look closer at the carton and realized I had been punked.  ; )  

Not a bad way to start the day.  They do keep me laughing lol. 

 I am thankful for…  an opportunity Asher and Alannah had to spend the weekend in Munich with the young people from our tiny chapel.  They have been invited on several occasions but it's too far to drive and drop off and we didn't want Alannah to tackle the train alone.  Asher's arrival made this time possible. Alannah talked by phone with an older German friend who walked us through the ticketing and itinerary.  Another girl, also traveling to the Munich gathering met them at their second to last train change (there were many of them on an 8 hr journey!) and helped navigate the rest of the way. 

(with her German friend en route)
It was a short but memorable weekend of games and fun and fellowship. 

(changing trains)

We are so proud of them that they figured it all out and so pleased they are getting to make these connections.  

(rectory)

I am wearing… likely boot cut jeans and a sweater. And boots for that slush. And a slouchy hat over my cotton ball'd ear. Does this sound attractive or what lol?  Heading out to shop for Tess' birthday cake supplies in a bit.  I was rereading some of Helen's (Castle of the Immaculate) thoughts about ironing (and generally preparing for church further in advance) here and thought I would share.  I absolutely agree.  It is a small thing that does say alot. Coming from a military home we realize that while appearance is not the most important thing it DOES convey a loud message about our self respect and the respect we wish to show to others. 

Around the house…. more little Christmas tea light holders from the thrift shop.  Reorganized the girls wardrobe/closet this wknd.  It was one big laundry basket.  Much better now. They really need a second pole for hangers. 

More house inspiration here on Flickr – which seems to be where I hang out online more and more. (Very encouraging, that community is!)  The corners of this home are so soothing and simple and vintage. 

I am creating… Christmas gifts which may arrive on time but more than likely not. Here is hoping. I hope to bring some hand sewing on our trip for a change of pace.   Need some inspiration?  Check out these adorable carolers.  

I am reading…  Finishing the Story of a Family finally.  It's been years of on and off reading.  At this age and stage of life, and what it has thrown at me,  I can relate to Zelie Martin.  I cannot tell you how she inspires me. 

A few plans for the rest of the week…  Bavaria!  Though there will be no Zugspitz for me this year.  There will be castles and snow and a warm house in the mountains however. I'll take it. : ) 

Tess will kick off her four year old year in the Alps. amazing to me still.

A picture thought I am sharing…

at the rectory in Munich