I joke a lot about how old I feel, not really because of any mental or physical aging, per say, but because everyone around me seems to be growing up and changing. My baby sister graduated from college in May, decided to continue to live four states away, and got a "real job". My little brother owns his own home and is getting married in May. Youth group kids that I remember from when they were in high school are getting married and one even has an adorable little girl! But 28 is not really that old considering I am hard pressed to remember a time when I didn't have a computer in my home.
Granted I was spoiled since my dad owned his own IT company, so I'm pretty sure we had a computer before a lot of people. And I do remember dos; that awful blue screen, having to remember exactly how to type the file you wanted, and word was basically a typewriter on a screen. Still, I can't remember not having one. If you told me today to write a research paper without using the internet, I don't think I could do it.
Computers have come a long way in my lifetime and I remember things changing as windows was upgraded; now you can play solitaire! The internet was introduced; turn computer on, make sandwich while you wait for dial-up, play on the internet till someone needs the phone. Then there was instant messaging; lose hours of sleep as chatting to all my friends at once replaced talking on the phone long into the night. Now even that has been taken one step further with my new favorite thing, facebook!
I always enjoy chatting with my friends online, and I knew of facebook, however the fact that anyone can just look you up and be your friend was a little unnerving to me. There are people I've known whom I'd rather not find me so easily; for some it was hard enough to sever ties the first time, so that was my excuse not to join. Then I started getting bugged to sign up, and I went to my 10 year reunion and had fun catching up with people there, so I decided that after my exam I would go for it.
Now I'm officially addicted. I've been throwing virtual snowballs, sending plants, getting in bar fights, kidnapping people, and beating up mobsters, and I can't make myself stop! I love seeing what other people are up to through the status updates, checking out people's pictures, and writing on the walls of people I haven't seen in years! I've owned a digital camera for a long time but usually forget it at home, or bring it with me and then forget to take a single picture. Now I want to take pictures of everything so I can post them on facebook, because I'm sure everyone cares about what my cat looks like when she's mad and how many pine needles are already in my house from the giant Christmas tree in the family room.
I have to get myself under control here before I start scanning old prom pictures and making videos of my breakfast...
Anyone want to join my mafia wars family? :)
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Phillies Parade
So I've never been a huge baseball fan, having only really begun to actually sit down and watch it from time to time and go to games here and there since I married an avid baseball player, watcher, & follower. However, I have always been a Philadelphia fan and I did grow up as a huge Flyers fan as well as kept up with the Eagles. I won't get into my crazy fandom history but I've been a Jersey girl all my life and no matter what, will always feel a special bond with the city of Philadelphia.
It's really a great city for so many reasons. Philly is known for some of the best food, sharing it's name with soft pretzels, and cheesesteaks, being home to Tastycake and some of the best restaurants you'll ever eat at. My favorite part about going to South Street when I was in school to get design supplies at Pearl was the fact that it was located directly across from Jim's; my personal favorite cheesesteak place. Philadelphia is also known as a sports town with fans who bleed Eagle's green, passionately hold onto grudges against players who have scorned them, and have the ever-present mantra of "maybe next year".
Throughout the history of sports there have been teams who have dry spells, the Red Sox only broke the curse of the Bambino five seasons ago, the Cubs are still waiting for their curse to be broken, and I could name more then a few teams that, for the sake of the franchise, had better hope there are blue skies ahead. But throughout my lifetime the city of Philadelphia has been practically winless. A quarter of a century and not a single trophy, parade, or team to boast about is a long time for a city with the passionate fans, and longevity that Philadelphia's teams have. We have four teams who have called Philly home for at least 40 years. Teams which have always been at least decent, they give you hope, they have bright shining moments of "almost" for fans to cling to, but always seem to fall just short.
Then the Phillies in the last three innings of a game which began two days earlier ended on the perfect note of a perfect season for closer Brad Lidge as he struck out Eric Hinske to clinch the world series and Philadelphia, with a collective cry that was equal parts joy and surprise, was no longer a city of perpetual losers. I went to the parade here because it was three blocks from my office and I just didn't want to be so close and miss it, so around 12pm, half the office set off to watch. Unfortunately, had we really wanted to be there and see everything, we would have had to be there first thing in the morning. As I arrived to work at 8:30 there were people in the streets with Phillies gear on walking around, yelling, horns honking and becoming the makings of a ridiculous crowd. By the time my coworkers and I arrived we were probably at least 60 people deep and couldn't see a thing. Every time someone started cheering it started a wave of people following suit so I would raise my camera over my head and just start taking pictures. I'll post a couple that I took, but it's really not much to look at. But I was determined to be there and I'm glad I can at least say I was a little part of my favorite city's history.
People gathered in an open parking garage close to where we stood.
This was my view for the start of the parade thanks to the guy in front of me who let his kids take turns being on his shoulders. Not his fault really, but still...
That's the Phanatic through the trees, you see him, right?
I told you so.
Yay Confetti!
That's probably someone important, I just can't see.
Cool Phillies flag waved by someone passing by.
People were climbing anything they though would give them a better view.
Just in case you're interested, I found the Philadelphia team's dates established and the last year they won a championship. Just because I was curious.
Flyers est. in '67 haven't won since back-to-back cups in '74 & '75
76ers est. in '39, haven't won since '83
Eagles est. in '33, haven't won since '60 (!)
Phillies est. in 1889, haven't won since '80...until now!
It's really a great city for so many reasons. Philly is known for some of the best food, sharing it's name with soft pretzels, and cheesesteaks, being home to Tastycake and some of the best restaurants you'll ever eat at. My favorite part about going to South Street when I was in school to get design supplies at Pearl was the fact that it was located directly across from Jim's; my personal favorite cheesesteak place. Philadelphia is also known as a sports town with fans who bleed Eagle's green, passionately hold onto grudges against players who have scorned them, and have the ever-present mantra of "maybe next year".
Throughout the history of sports there have been teams who have dry spells, the Red Sox only broke the curse of the Bambino five seasons ago, the Cubs are still waiting for their curse to be broken, and I could name more then a few teams that, for the sake of the franchise, had better hope there are blue skies ahead. But throughout my lifetime the city of Philadelphia has been practically winless. A quarter of a century and not a single trophy, parade, or team to boast about is a long time for a city with the passionate fans, and longevity that Philadelphia's teams have. We have four teams who have called Philly home for at least 40 years. Teams which have always been at least decent, they give you hope, they have bright shining moments of "almost" for fans to cling to, but always seem to fall just short.
Then the Phillies in the last three innings of a game which began two days earlier ended on the perfect note of a perfect season for closer Brad Lidge as he struck out Eric Hinske to clinch the world series and Philadelphia, with a collective cry that was equal parts joy and surprise, was no longer a city of perpetual losers. I went to the parade here because it was three blocks from my office and I just didn't want to be so close and miss it, so around 12pm, half the office set off to watch. Unfortunately, had we really wanted to be there and see everything, we would have had to be there first thing in the morning. As I arrived to work at 8:30 there were people in the streets with Phillies gear on walking around, yelling, horns honking and becoming the makings of a ridiculous crowd. By the time my coworkers and I arrived we were probably at least 60 people deep and couldn't see a thing. Every time someone started cheering it started a wave of people following suit so I would raise my camera over my head and just start taking pictures. I'll post a couple that I took, but it's really not much to look at. But I was determined to be there and I'm glad I can at least say I was a little part of my favorite city's history.
People gathered in an open parking garage close to where we stood.
This was my view for the start of the parade thanks to the guy in front of me who let his kids take turns being on his shoulders. Not his fault really, but still...
That's the Phanatic through the trees, you see him, right?
I told you so.
Yay Confetti!
That's probably someone important, I just can't see.
Cool Phillies flag waved by someone passing by.
People were climbing anything they though would give them a better view.Flyers est. in '67 haven't won since back-to-back cups in '74 & '75
76ers est. in '39, haven't won since '83
Eagles est. in '33, haven't won since '60 (!)
Phillies est. in 1889, haven't won since '80...until now!
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Reunion
Back in August I had my 10 year high school reunion which I must admit I was a little wary about going to at first. I didn't really have a good reason not to go, I haven't moved very far away and it wasn't like there was anyone I was dreading to see or I had changed for the worse. So after being talked into it by Andria who insisted I'd regret it if I didn't, I found the perfect dress, awesome shoes, and couldn't think of any reason not to go.
But that was back in August, and I've been meaning to post this picture for a while now. I'm really good at making excuses as to why I haven't, one of which being that I was trying to find a picture that would be a good representation of me from high school, while not being totally embarrassing. I was unsuccessful so picture this: Kim, 15ibs heavier with slightly chubby cheeks wearing baggy jeans and an oversize flannel shirt, long straight hair and rocking bangs.
I have to say, it was a good day. I had a soccer game in the morning and Chris and I asked our friends Andria and Jon if we could hang with them the rest of the day instead of going home just to meet up with them later since we were planning on carpooling. So Andria and I made hair and nail appointments and spent the day being pampered and getting ready to look fabulous while Chris and Jon spent the afternoon playing video games. The reunion itself was fairly uneventful and with the exception of an awful senior video put together for graduation with everyone looking 10 years younger and dorkier (ok, maybe just me) and it reminded people of who wasn't there. It was nice to see people and learn who was married, had kids, living somewhere else, etc. I'll probably go back in another 10 years too, as long as I have no reason not to.
But that was back in August, and I've been meaning to post this picture for a while now. I'm really good at making excuses as to why I haven't, one of which being that I was trying to find a picture that would be a good representation of me from high school, while not being totally embarrassing. I was unsuccessful so picture this: Kim, 15ibs heavier with slightly chubby cheeks wearing baggy jeans and an oversize flannel shirt, long straight hair and rocking bangs.
I have to say, it was a good day. I had a soccer game in the morning and Chris and I asked our friends Andria and Jon if we could hang with them the rest of the day instead of going home just to meet up with them later since we were planning on carpooling. So Andria and I made hair and nail appointments and spent the day being pampered and getting ready to look fabulous while Chris and Jon spent the afternoon playing video games. The reunion itself was fairly uneventful and with the exception of an awful senior video put together for graduation with everyone looking 10 years younger and dorkier (ok, maybe just me) and it reminded people of who wasn't there. It was nice to see people and learn who was married, had kids, living somewhere else, etc. I'll probably go back in another 10 years too, as long as I have no reason not to.
Monday, October 6, 2008
Ahhhhh!!!
That was a huge sigh of relief from me. After months of studying a giant book filled with all sorts of design trivia and silly practice questions, practice projects and a stress knot in my shoulders the size of a golf ball, the exam is finally over!
I don't even know what to do with myself now that I actually have free time again. There's the house I've neglected to clean for about a month, the basement I still have projects to finish in, business cards to design, books I want to read, fall decorating I want to get done, and probably a zillion more things I could list. Not to even mention all the friends I haven't seen in weeks because I've been in study-induced hibernation.
I will have to wait till probably January before I know if I passed or not, but now that it's all said and done, I think it went okay. I know I didn't remember everything I should have or needed to, but I believe I did enough to pass which is all I could really ask for.
I'll let you all know when I find out!
I don't even know what to do with myself now that I actually have free time again. There's the house I've neglected to clean for about a month, the basement I still have projects to finish in, business cards to design, books I want to read, fall decorating I want to get done, and probably a zillion more things I could list. Not to even mention all the friends I haven't seen in weeks because I've been in study-induced hibernation.
I will have to wait till probably January before I know if I passed or not, but now that it's all said and done, I think it went okay. I know I didn't remember everything I should have or needed to, but I believe I did enough to pass which is all I could really ask for.
I'll let you all know when I find out!
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Go See Juno!
I love Netflix because there's rarely a movie that I just have to see as soon as it hits theaters, and since the turn-around time from theater to video isn't that long anymore I can usually wait to get it in the mail. We also love not having to spend hours wandering around a video store trying to decide on what we want to watch, plus there's no going back out for a movie once you're already home. Although we do still have movies we got for Christmas that we haven't watched yet since we always have one from Netflix to watch, but that's another story.
Of all the movies I count on my favorite genre lists, teen pregnancy films aren't usually a movie subject I want to run right out to see, but I have heard nothing but good things about Juno ever since it became the little indie film that could. Correction, I have heard nothing but phenomenal, rave reviews for it. So after seeing or reading something last week that brought it back to my mind I checked to see where it was on our list and bumped it up to the top.
I enjoyed every minute of the hour and a half long Juno. It was a clever story, every character was dead-on; from Rainn Wilson who makes a quick cameo to Ellen Paige who's a little too witty and calm for a 16 year old, yet somehow the character still lends itself to her mature sarcasim. I laughed so hard I was literally wiping tears off my cheeks at some of the fantastic dialoge and was still touched by an ending I didn't quite expect. Just thinking about some of the great quotes makes me smile and I am going to have to own it so it can join Zoolander and The Princess Bride as my favorite movie-speak movies.
I can't remember the last time I saw such a well rounded movie with comedic elements worthy of any of my favorite Stiller or Ferrell flicks as well as dramatic elements so well played they make you feel like you're actually looking in on someone else's private moment. Needless to say I'm giving it 5 stars.
Of all the movies I count on my favorite genre lists, teen pregnancy films aren't usually a movie subject I want to run right out to see, but I have heard nothing but good things about Juno ever since it became the little indie film that could. Correction, I have heard nothing but phenomenal, rave reviews for it. So after seeing or reading something last week that brought it back to my mind I checked to see where it was on our list and bumped it up to the top.
I enjoyed every minute of the hour and a half long Juno. It was a clever story, every character was dead-on; from Rainn Wilson who makes a quick cameo to Ellen Paige who's a little too witty and calm for a 16 year old, yet somehow the character still lends itself to her mature sarcasim. I laughed so hard I was literally wiping tears off my cheeks at some of the fantastic dialoge and was still touched by an ending I didn't quite expect. Just thinking about some of the great quotes makes me smile and I am going to have to own it so it can join Zoolander and The Princess Bride as my favorite movie-speak movies.
I can't remember the last time I saw such a well rounded movie with comedic elements worthy of any of my favorite Stiller or Ferrell flicks as well as dramatic elements so well played they make you feel like you're actually looking in on someone else's private moment. Needless to say I'm giving it 5 stars.
Monday, August 11, 2008
Politics, of which I know nothing about
I've never been very knowledgeable on politics and I don't tend to keep up on the issues of the candidates running for office, whatever the office may be. I've been a republican because that's what my parents are and for the most part I know my beliefs line up on the conservative side of the fence. Honestly, when it comes down to it, I am content to just pick up on things from conversations with people I trust rather then do the research myself, and my favorite statement when talking about the upcoming presidential election is "When was the last time people have voted for a candidate, rather then simply against the other candidate?" And I guess this is also my excuse for not making a point of being informed of the issues and the stances the candidates take on them. I know who I don't want as my president so I don't bother to make sure I'm making an informed decision. Also, since I am so ill-informed, I'm afraid to get caught up in someones well-written speech or column and make a bad decision based on falsified information or political double speak where I'm not understanding what's there between the lines. Whew, I'm exhausted just thinking about how dumb I am about politics.
But this article, I feel, pretty much sums up where my views lie, and it's interesting that the author says these used to be liberal beliefs until about 40 years ago. "Why I am Not a Liberal" This is also my new favorite site for reading about the depressing options we have for president, the more I hear about Obama the more disgusted with him I become. Just check out his stance on abortion, it's not for the faint of heart. But unfortunately, McCain doesn't seem to want to take advantage of his opponent's weaknesses, so I guess I'm hoping to see a little more strength in his campaign in the coming months. The person I have been most impressed with has been Cindy McCain. But at least that's something.
But this article, I feel, pretty much sums up where my views lie, and it's interesting that the author says these used to be liberal beliefs until about 40 years ago. "Why I am Not a Liberal" This is also my new favorite site for reading about the depressing options we have for president, the more I hear about Obama the more disgusted with him I become. Just check out his stance on abortion, it's not for the faint of heart. But unfortunately, McCain doesn't seem to want to take advantage of his opponent's weaknesses, so I guess I'm hoping to see a little more strength in his campaign in the coming months. The person I have been most impressed with has been Cindy McCain. But at least that's something.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Half Blood Prince!
Well, I said after the last movie that I wasn't getting my hopes up for the remainder of the Harry Potter movies, but it seems I just can't help myself! I don't want to look forward to seeing them like I am and I do a good job when there's nothing teasing me, but I just saw this trailer and a behind the scenes clip on youtube and I don't know how to not be excited for the next movie!
So, we'll see what happens. The fifth one was really the only movie I was really upset with the interpretation for, so I'm hoping it was because the writer that adapted the first four screen plays was to blame because he wasn't available. Since David Yates will be back as the director, I can only hope having the original writer back will put the movies back on track. Since there's no more books to look forward to, I guess I'll just have to be content with whatever they come out with in November.
So, we'll see what happens. The fifth one was really the only movie I was really upset with the interpretation for, so I'm hoping it was because the writer that adapted the first four screen plays was to blame because he wasn't available. Since David Yates will be back as the director, I can only hope having the original writer back will put the movies back on track. Since there's no more books to look forward to, I guess I'll just have to be content with whatever they come out with in November.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Na-na na-na na-na na-na BATMAN!
Oh man, I can't say enough how much I love the latest installment of Batman! We went with a group of people on Friday night after Chris's softball game, and then again on Sunday after convincing John and Stephanie they needed to see it too. I can't even remember the last movie I saw on opening weekend, let alone twice in one weekend. But it was that good. I grew up with Batman. Those movies, along with Indiana Jones, were my Star Wars; movies that were beloved by most of my generation but I never saw until I became an adult. And just like Chris sat me down to watch all the Star Wars when the first 3 episodes came out, I made him sit with me and catch up on all the Batmen that had gone before. I was never a comic book fan so I didn't know the discrepancies between the Batman movies and the original stories, but I loved the super hero films for what they were. Even when the third and fourth installments were infused with cheese and rubber nipples (just who's idea was that??) I still had a soft spot for the Batman movies. I loved the Bond-esque toys he got to use and the fact that unlike most super heroes he was a regular guy just trying to fight crime with no real super power (unless you can consider being really, really ridiculously rich to be a super power). I even enjoyed the over the top characters that played the villains, Jack Nicholson's Joker and Jim Carry's Riddler being two of my favorites.
In 2005 when Batman Begins came out I was psyched for another take on my favorite super hero and was overall impressed with director Christopher Nolan's version. It was darker then any before with Christian Bale playing Bruce Wayne as more then just a pretty-boy billionaire with an interesting nocturnal hobby. He portrays him as deeply disturbed, a bit necessary when you think about the likely-hood of a grown man dressing as a bat in order to fight crime, and he gave his back story great believability. There was a new underlying presence of mobsters giving Batman an unending supply of bad guys to go after and a little more realism to the story. And there was just something in Cillian Murphy's cold eyes that made him a great villain.
Than around this time last year I heard that the second one was coming out; hooray!! And that Heath Ledger was going to play the joker; what?? Mr. Brokeback Mountain is going to be the joker? Nicholson's mouth was perfect in that plastic-y smile and his laugh along with his jittery, silly movements were just great, how is Ledger going to play this part? Then as time went on I started hearing more and more about the intensity and sheer craziness he was giving to the character, and I started getting excited about it. I really couldn’t help myself, even if his joker couldn’t hold a candle to Nicholson’s, there was still a new Batman movie to look forward to. Of course Ledger’s death in January gave the movie even more hype then it was already getting since the first one was so well done. Than as people started getting advance showings and critics even started talking about an Oscar nod along with a good shot at winning a posthumous golden statue, I couldn’t wait any longer! And I pushed aside the somewhat nagging feeling that I might be getting geared up to be supremely let down.
However, The Dark Knight did not disappoint. From beginning to end it was non-stop action, crazy stunts, cool bat-toys, and a psychopathic Joker who both creeped me out and made me laugh out loud. If you loved the first Batman you have to see this one too. I applaud the well developed characters, the solid acting all around and the fact that they’re not afraid to shock the audience with a death or special effect or plot twist. I may even have to see it again…
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Holy Guacamole!
I have never really been a fan of guacamole. Which is strange since as far as eating green food goes, I generally love it all, broccoli, string beans, and snap peas are just a few of my favorites. However, avocados have always ranked fairly low on my list of green food that I actually want to put in my mouth. I also don't really know what to do with them or have recipes to use them in so I've never bothered with them.
Then, last summer I learned how to make awesome guacamole from a friend's mom and I feel it has now been tried and true since I have converted many other guacamole-haters with this recipe. I've made it here and there for game nights or get togethers with family and friends, and then I read an article that listed the benefits of avocados and now I feel I need to start eating a lot more of this super-food.
One of the common impressions of avocados is this is just a fattening food and there are better ways of getting healthy vitamins and minerals. However in this day and age where everything is way more complicated then just labeling something as a fatty food or a healthy food, I think it merits a second look at how the benefits outweigh the possible negatives.
Consider this:
3 avocados mashed
4 Tbsp mayo
1/2 red onion chopped fine
1/2 lime's worth of juice
salt to taste
Leave a couple of pits in to keep it from browning too fast and enjoy! I also found that it's easier to mash the avocados with a pastry cutter or potato masher rather then a fork, especially if the avocado isn't quite ripe yet.
(Facts found on Hass.com and health.MSN.com, photo from sxc.hu)
Then, last summer I learned how to make awesome guacamole from a friend's mom and I feel it has now been tried and true since I have converted many other guacamole-haters with this recipe. I've made it here and there for game nights or get togethers with family and friends, and then I read an article that listed the benefits of avocados and now I feel I need to start eating a lot more of this super-food.
One of the common impressions of avocados is this is just a fattening food and there are better ways of getting healthy vitamins and minerals. However in this day and age where everything is way more complicated then just labeling something as a fatty food or a healthy food, I think it merits a second look at how the benefits outweigh the possible negatives.
Consider this:
- Avocados contain 20 different vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients (these help prevent many chronic diseases) including vitamins E, K, & C, iron, potassium, foliate, and fiber.
- Avocados help enable your body to absorb fat-soluble nutrients from other healthy vegetables when eaten together including beta-carotene and antioxidants. (For example, the healthy beta-carotene in carrots can't be absorbed by your body unless eaten with something containing fat such as salad dressing or dip)
- Avocados are virtually the only fruit that contain monounsaturated fats which help lower cholestoral and risks of heart disease and stroke. (They're generally found in oils.)
- Avocados contain lutein which help maintain eye health as we age.
3 avocados mashed
4 Tbsp mayo
1/2 red onion chopped fine
1/2 lime's worth of juice
salt to taste
Leave a couple of pits in to keep it from browning too fast and enjoy! I also found that it's easier to mash the avocados with a pastry cutter or potato masher rather then a fork, especially if the avocado isn't quite ripe yet.
(Facts found on Hass.com and health.MSN.com, photo from sxc.hu)
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Widget, gadget and other fun words to say
Look at me getting all technologically advanced.
I was so proud of myself for figuring out how to add a youtube video without having to ask Chris to show me first. Now I've added a widget so I can share my favorite books on my blog too! This of course means I now have another site that I have to keep maintained, but I thought it was pretty cool.
I was so proud of myself for figuring out how to add a youtube video without having to ask Chris to show me first. Now I've added a widget so I can share my favorite books on my blog too! This of course means I now have another site that I have to keep maintained, but I thought it was pretty cool.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Rent!
I had a fabulous weekend as I got to visit my cousin Jenny in Maryland so we could see RENT at a The Wolf Trap Theater near where she lives, along with her, as she puts it, hopefully someday sister-in-law. This all started last summer when Jenny, her sister Pam and I went to see Wicked at the Miriam Theater in Philly which was amazing and I'd highly recommend that show to anyone. We had so much fun we decided we needed to plan to do it at least once a year. Unfortunately, Pam couldn't join us again, and Megan wasn't able to for the second time either. But I love Rent, it's my favorite show, and Jen had seen the movie and knew how much I loved it, so we just had to see it while it was in town. I am so glad we did.
The Wolf Trap Theater is a non profit, open air theater which allows you to bring outside food and beverages with you and eat on the lawn. I was completely enamored with this concept since at any venue I've been to in Philadelphia, they completely gouge their captive audience with food and beer prices. I felt like I was getting away with something as we carried our cooler full of beer and sandwiches right through the front gates. Jenny even remembered to pack pickles. We sat on the lawn, with lots of other picnickers before the show and ate our dinner, enjoying the laid back atmosphere, and the breeze that made the summer weather slightly less sticky.
Months ago when Jenny first mentioned the show, she had told me that her brother-in-law works at the theater, so we could probably get good tickets, and when we arrived he got us tickets in row F with a senior discount! So naturally, we were thrilled to have cheap seats so close to the stage. Then, not long after we had sat down and started eating, he came over, handed us new tickets and receipts for a refund for the old tickets. We were now sitting in row B, dead center, and it didn't cost a thing!!! This, of course, prompted giggly, faux-snotty remarks of how far away row F was, and how that just wouldn't have been acceptable.
The show itself was fantastic, as usual, and while the performers weren't quite as good as the cast I saw in Philly several years ago, their energy made up for what they may have lacked in talent, which still wasn't much. I soaked it all in, trying hard not to sing along to all the songs, and informed Chris on Sunday when I got home, that I have to get the soundtrack.
While I fought with the inevitable feelings of these actors not being exactly the same as the ones I remember, Collin's voice should be deeper, Angel should have more rhythm, Maureen needs to be a little more leather then denim... I was particularly impressed with the guy cast as Roger who, unlike the original Roger, sort of a grunge rocker al la Kurt Cobane, looked a little like Billy Joe from Green Day sporting guy-liner and bleached blond spiky hair. I liked the image change very much as I had never particularly found Roger attractive as the male lead, but it was this guy's voice that really blew me away. He sang with such emotion and had such vocal control I think I could have listened to him sing the entire show by himself.
Here's a you tube video here of him singing "One Song, Glory" from the show for you guys to enjoy too. And as a fun side note, we read in the program later that he won South African Idol. We thought it was funny, but unfortunately his music is a little boy band-ish, but he did do a pretty good job of keeping his accent in check during the show.
Also, the link to the Wolf Trap theater for anyone who wants to check it out, if you happen to live down there or are planning on visiting. http://www.wolf-trap.org/
The Wolf Trap Theater is a non profit, open air theater which allows you to bring outside food and beverages with you and eat on the lawn. I was completely enamored with this concept since at any venue I've been to in Philadelphia, they completely gouge their captive audience with food and beer prices. I felt like I was getting away with something as we carried our cooler full of beer and sandwiches right through the front gates. Jenny even remembered to pack pickles. We sat on the lawn, with lots of other picnickers before the show and ate our dinner, enjoying the laid back atmosphere, and the breeze that made the summer weather slightly less sticky.
Months ago when Jenny first mentioned the show, she had told me that her brother-in-law works at the theater, so we could probably get good tickets, and when we arrived he got us tickets in row F with a senior discount! So naturally, we were thrilled to have cheap seats so close to the stage. Then, not long after we had sat down and started eating, he came over, handed us new tickets and receipts for a refund for the old tickets. We were now sitting in row B, dead center, and it didn't cost a thing!!! This, of course, prompted giggly, faux-snotty remarks of how far away row F was, and how that just wouldn't have been acceptable.
The show itself was fantastic, as usual, and while the performers weren't quite as good as the cast I saw in Philly several years ago, their energy made up for what they may have lacked in talent, which still wasn't much. I soaked it all in, trying hard not to sing along to all the songs, and informed Chris on Sunday when I got home, that I have to get the soundtrack.
While I fought with the inevitable feelings of these actors not being exactly the same as the ones I remember, Collin's voice should be deeper, Angel should have more rhythm, Maureen needs to be a little more leather then denim... I was particularly impressed with the guy cast as Roger who, unlike the original Roger, sort of a grunge rocker al la Kurt Cobane, looked a little like Billy Joe from Green Day sporting guy-liner and bleached blond spiky hair. I liked the image change very much as I had never particularly found Roger attractive as the male lead, but it was this guy's voice that really blew me away. He sang with such emotion and had such vocal control I think I could have listened to him sing the entire show by himself.
Here's a you tube video here of him singing "One Song, Glory" from the show for you guys to enjoy too. And as a fun side note, we read in the program later that he won South African Idol. We thought it was funny, but unfortunately his music is a little boy band-ish, but he did do a pretty good job of keeping his accent in check during the show.
Also, the link to the Wolf Trap theater for anyone who wants to check it out, if you happen to live down there or are planning on visiting. http://www.wolf-trap.org/
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Words to live by
For the past few years I've been meeting with two of my closest friends to share our lives and study God's word together, and while "bible study" is a good, common term for our meetings, over the years it's turned into more than just a bible study to me. A few weeks ago on my way to Kim's house there was a huge rainbow in the sky that I couldn't take my eyes off the whole time I was driving; all the while I was praying that it'd stay till I got to Kim's and fumbling with my camera phone at red lights just in case it didn't. It stretched from one end of the sky to the other and even had a shadow rainbow that shimmered in and out of view next to it. I wasn't far from her house, and the three of us did get to enjoy it together, standing on Kim's porch taking pictures, making the neighbors wonder. What a blessing it was to start our night together with a reminder of God's promises, and such a beautiful one at that!So we have been meeting for a while and we've studied all sorts of things, different study books, the Proverbs 31 woman, going through various books of the bible. Currently we're in the book of 1 Peter since we started in James and enjoyed it too much to stop there. Last night we were reading the fourth chapter and after reading it and discussing it for a few minutes I realized that I really needed to commit verses 7 - 11 to memory.
"The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen."
(Words in bold are mine, because those are the things I need to remember every day.)
It's really eye opening to consider the fact that if it's God's will, I may not have tomorrow. Today could be my legacy, the footprints that remain for those I left behind to remember me by. So what do people see? Did I love others despite their attitudes, serve them without grumbling, and go about my day with a grace that transcends my own flesh? Or did I leave a cloud of frustration, stubbornness, and complaint in my wake?
Unfortunately the days I let the little things get to me are not few and far between, but I'm going to be working on that.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
NeoCon
I just got back, last night at 11pm, from a trip to Chicago my office sent me on. Every year the city hosts a huge trade show called NeoCon for anyone in the industry at their merchandise mart which is a huge building on the canal that houses showroom after showroom of furniture, fabrics, carpets, wallcoverings, kitchen & bath fixtures, you name it and there's probably a showroom for it somewhere. It was a great, whirlwind trip, and beyond the merchandise mart I just want to recommend Chicago for anyone looking for a cool city to visit because I can't wait to go back with Chris to do a little more exploring.
I'll give you as much of a condensed version as I can. Our plane landed around 9am, we caught a cab and went straight to the mart where we checked our bags and tried to figure out where the heck to go. The building was huge and pretty difficult to navigate, especially with so many people there. Every time I turned around there was another line for a different set of elevators, it was crazy! I'd like to say we eventually figured it out, but it was just not possible to get the map in your head in less then 2 days. We signed up for a seminar, which was very informative, about the evolution of the open work space and how that will continue to change as the baby boomers retire since we'll have only one new worker coming in for every two leaving. If you're interested in seeing how it's evolving, google "google Zurich office" and check out their office in Zurich, it's pretty cool. We collected as much of the free stuff the showrooms were giving out as we could which was a lot of bags, some notebooks and pens, food & drink, and even teddy bears and my personal fav, soccer balls! That stuff plus all the product literature we picked up and my shoulders are still sore! After a Herman Miller showroom tour and my first ever red bull we finally found our hotel, checked in, and got to relax for a little while & shower before meeting back up with the Herman Miller people for dinner.
Being taken to dinner by furniture reps is always an experience because the company is picking up the tab. They ordered way more food then the 5 of us would ever eat and we drank two bottles of wine which were over $100 each! It was a very nice, relaxing way to end the evening as everyone was very friendly and the conversation flowed well for the almost three hours that we sat in the restaurant. Good stuff. Then I got to watch the last 2 minutes of the Celtics game "which Chris" before bed.
Yesterday I was up way too early which I'm blaming on the combination of not being in my own bed, and the red bull. So I lounged around a little, took my time getting all the junk I'd acquired the day before packed and ready for the plane ride home. We checked out around 8:30, grabbed a quick breakfast and lugged all of our stuff back to the mart so we could hit a couple more showrooms before our time was up. Then we took a cab to Navy Pier and took an architectural ferry ride/tour along the canal which was a great way to end the trip. Still work-related but we got out in the sun, it was a beautiful day, and got to sit down and enjoy the city a little bit.
And now, for any of you interested in seeing Chicago, here are the few tips I have to offer.
1. Try to fly out of Midway airport instead of O'Hare. O'Hare was crowded, had really long lines, both checking in and security, and a lot of connector flights go through there so for a fairly small airport it's full to the brim with people.
2. Take the train! We spent almost $40 on a cab ride from the airport to the mart on Tuesday morning and $2 a person to take the train back Wednesday afternoon. Trains go to downtown from both airports, orange line from Midway and blue line from O'Hare.
3. Check out Navy Port! This is where we took the Architectural ferry tour from, but they had so much more I wish we had had a little time to walk around. There are at least a half dozen different boat tours to chose from, shopping and even some carnival rides, and that's just what I did see.
4. As some of you may know, Chicago was where Frank Lloyd Wright began his career as an architect where among other things, he popularized the prairie style home in the 1900's. I don't want to get into an architecture lesson but there are many different tours you could take to see some of the really cool buildings he designed. I was a little sad I didn't get to see the Robie House which I had done a project on in Design 2.
5. And I would be remiss not to mention the fact that Chicago has two baseball teams to watch, the Cubs at Wrigley Staduim and the White Sox at the much lesser known U.S. Cellular Field (I had to look it up). FYI, Red Sox play the White Sox in August. :)
I'll give you as much of a condensed version as I can. Our plane landed around 9am, we caught a cab and went straight to the mart where we checked our bags and tried to figure out where the heck to go. The building was huge and pretty difficult to navigate, especially with so many people there. Every time I turned around there was another line for a different set of elevators, it was crazy! I'd like to say we eventually figured it out, but it was just not possible to get the map in your head in less then 2 days. We signed up for a seminar, which was very informative, about the evolution of the open work space and how that will continue to change as the baby boomers retire since we'll have only one new worker coming in for every two leaving. If you're interested in seeing how it's evolving, google "google Zurich office" and check out their office in Zurich, it's pretty cool. We collected as much of the free stuff the showrooms were giving out as we could which was a lot of bags, some notebooks and pens, food & drink, and even teddy bears and my personal fav, soccer balls! That stuff plus all the product literature we picked up and my shoulders are still sore! After a Herman Miller showroom tour and my first ever red bull we finally found our hotel, checked in, and got to relax for a little while & shower before meeting back up with the Herman Miller people for dinner.
Being taken to dinner by furniture reps is always an experience because the company is picking up the tab. They ordered way more food then the 5 of us would ever eat and we drank two bottles of wine which were over $100 each! It was a very nice, relaxing way to end the evening as everyone was very friendly and the conversation flowed well for the almost three hours that we sat in the restaurant. Good stuff. Then I got to watch the last 2 minutes of the Celtics game "which Chris" before bed.
Yesterday I was up way too early which I'm blaming on the combination of not being in my own bed, and the red bull. So I lounged around a little, took my time getting all the junk I'd acquired the day before packed and ready for the plane ride home. We checked out around 8:30, grabbed a quick breakfast and lugged all of our stuff back to the mart so we could hit a couple more showrooms before our time was up. Then we took a cab to Navy Pier and took an architectural ferry ride/tour along the canal which was a great way to end the trip. Still work-related but we got out in the sun, it was a beautiful day, and got to sit down and enjoy the city a little bit.
And now, for any of you interested in seeing Chicago, here are the few tips I have to offer.
1. Try to fly out of Midway airport instead of O'Hare. O'Hare was crowded, had really long lines, both checking in and security, and a lot of connector flights go through there so for a fairly small airport it's full to the brim with people.
2. Take the train! We spent almost $40 on a cab ride from the airport to the mart on Tuesday morning and $2 a person to take the train back Wednesday afternoon. Trains go to downtown from both airports, orange line from Midway and blue line from O'Hare.
3. Check out Navy Port! This is where we took the Architectural ferry tour from, but they had so much more I wish we had had a little time to walk around. There are at least a half dozen different boat tours to chose from, shopping and even some carnival rides, and that's just what I did see.
4. As some of you may know, Chicago was where Frank Lloyd Wright began his career as an architect where among other things, he popularized the prairie style home in the 1900's. I don't want to get into an architecture lesson but there are many different tours you could take to see some of the really cool buildings he designed. I was a little sad I didn't get to see the Robie House which I had done a project on in Design 2.
5. And I would be remiss not to mention the fact that Chicago has two baseball teams to watch, the Cubs at Wrigley Staduim and the White Sox at the much lesser known U.S. Cellular Field (I had to look it up). FYI, Red Sox play the White Sox in August. :)
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Update
So Mason had an unfortunate upset in the first round of the CAA's losing to Towson by one heart-breaking goal. Apparently neither team was down by more then one goal the entire game and Towson scored the winning goal with only 37 seconds left in the game. Unfortunately it seems it just wasn't meant to be as I can't imagine how much closer the game could have been and I'm sure my parents had residual white knuckles for hours.
On a brighter note, Megan did receive one final honor. In a ceremony the night before the game she was one of 11 players in the whole conference, which encompasses 8 teams, to be named to the First-Team All-CAA. She was over the moon, and even I couldn't stop smiling after hearing her talk about it. :)
On a brighter note, Megan did receive one final honor. In a ceremony the night before the game she was one of 11 players in the whole conference, which encompasses 8 teams, to be named to the First-Team All-CAA. She was over the moon, and even I couldn't stop smiling after hearing her talk about it. :)
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Bragging Rights
Entitlement to boast about something; the informal right to brag and boast about an achievement you've made.
Generally speaking, my achievements aren’t much to brag about, especially not on my blog. Getting right out of bed when the alarm clock goes off at 6am; hanging my clothes up as I take them off instead of throwing them on the hooks conveniently located in my closet; actually walking or driving past a Barnes & Noble without going inside and buying another book (have I mentioned how much I like to read?). These would all be small accomplishments for me as I go about my life. But as this semester comes to an end, and more specifically, as lacrosse season ends, I have something truly awesome to brag about.
Megan, my little sister, is a senior this year at George Mason University, which means the end to her collegiate lacrosse career as a Division I starter in midfield for the Mason team. The Bartlett’s have always been athletic, not to mention competitive, which makes us contenders on a field if nothing else, but Megan has emerged as the athlete of the family. I am so proud of her and what she’s achieved in all four years that she’s been away at school, but especially in this past season. She’s always been super exciting to watch when she’s in her element and the Mason team this year is playing as a unit like never before. They ended the regular season with a 12-4 overall record which includes a record breaking 7 game winning streak and a 6-1 record at home. When she finally says her farewell her name will remain on more then a few school record lists including; most goals in a game (5), most goals in a season (26), most ground balls in a career (144), and this is to name only a few. Plus, these are her numbers before the tournaments begin, although I'm not sure if those stats will "officially" count. She will forever have the honors of CAA player of the week and the second player ever from Mason to be named Nike Player of the Week.
I think that whenever the saying “going out with a bang” is referred to, there should be a picture of my sister, because she’s taken on her last season with all the fierceness of a woman not willing to go out quietly. She emerged as a true leader, deserves some of the credit for the way the team has come together this year, and for someone going into a season with just 7 goals total over three seasons, to score a whopping 26, it's just unbelievable!
The regular season is over but Mason is one of 4 the teams to have made it to the CAA tournament this weekend and if they get what they deserve they’ll be headed to the NCAA tournament at the end of May with champion rings to prove their right to be there. Selfishly I want it all for Megan, she’s overcome bad ref’s, misplaced criticism from the coaches, and in my slightly biased opinion, she deserves perfection this season. However, come what may, there’s so much to brag about and I couldn’t be prouder. If nothing else, they'll be playing overseas in June, savoring a trip she's earned and a game she loves to play.
Go Mason! Go Megan!
Generally speaking, my achievements aren’t much to brag about, especially not on my blog. Getting right out of bed when the alarm clock goes off at 6am; hanging my clothes up as I take them off instead of throwing them on the hooks conveniently located in my closet; actually walking or driving past a Barnes & Noble without going inside and buying another book (have I mentioned how much I like to read?). These would all be small accomplishments for me as I go about my life. But as this semester comes to an end, and more specifically, as lacrosse season ends, I have something truly awesome to brag about.
Megan, my little sister, is a senior this year at George Mason University, which means the end to her collegiate lacrosse career as a Division I starter in midfield for the Mason team. The Bartlett’s have always been athletic, not to mention competitive, which makes us contenders on a field if nothing else, but Megan has emerged as the athlete of the family. I am so proud of her and what she’s achieved in all four years that she’s been away at school, but especially in this past season. She’s always been super exciting to watch when she’s in her element and the Mason team this year is playing as a unit like never before. They ended the regular season with a 12-4 overall record which includes a record breaking 7 game winning streak and a 6-1 record at home. When she finally says her farewell her name will remain on more then a few school record lists including; most goals in a game (5), most goals in a season (26), most ground balls in a career (144), and this is to name only a few. Plus, these are her numbers before the tournaments begin, although I'm not sure if those stats will "officially" count. She will forever have the honors of CAA player of the week and the second player ever from Mason to be named Nike Player of the Week.
I think that whenever the saying “going out with a bang” is referred to, there should be a picture of my sister, because she’s taken on her last season with all the fierceness of a woman not willing to go out quietly. She emerged as a true leader, deserves some of the credit for the way the team has come together this year, and for someone going into a season with just 7 goals total over three seasons, to score a whopping 26, it's just unbelievable!
The regular season is over but Mason is one of 4 the teams to have made it to the CAA tournament this weekend and if they get what they deserve they’ll be headed to the NCAA tournament at the end of May with champion rings to prove their right to be there. Selfishly I want it all for Megan, she’s overcome bad ref’s, misplaced criticism from the coaches, and in my slightly biased opinion, she deserves perfection this season. However, come what may, there’s so much to brag about and I couldn’t be prouder. If nothing else, they'll be playing overseas in June, savoring a trip she's earned and a game she loves to play.
Go Mason! Go Megan!
#24 Megan in action
Mom & Dad escorting Megan on the field for her Senior Day Game
The whole family was able to make it for senior day!
Thursday, April 3, 2008
I've Been Carded
Last night I finally signed up for my Gloucester County Library card! Some of you may think I’m crazy that this is considered a highlight for me, but I was really excited to finally get it. The library was one of the first buildings I saw when we began looking in Logan Township for a house. Ask Chris, I think he was in the car with me when I pointed it out to him with all the enthusiasm of an 8 year old hearing the ice cream truck turn down the street.
I know it sounds strange, but there’s always been something really soothing to me about being around books. Maybe it’s the atmosphere and how in a Library everything seems hushed, almost reverent to the literature housed inside its walls. Or maybe it’s because seeing all those books lined up, and knowing I can take any one off the shelf and experience a story just by turning the pages opens up a world of possibilities to me. I really don’t know, but I love it and it makes me smile to know I’m now a card carrying member.
It also makes Chris smile knowing I won’t be spending so much money at Barnes & Noble.
On a side note, I don’t know about you guys but that bubble-gum pink was getting to me. Unfortunately that was the closest I could find to a purple template so I’m just going to have to be named Wisteria without prominently displaying it. If anyone knows how to create your own template, let me know!
I know it sounds strange, but there’s always been something really soothing to me about being around books. Maybe it’s the atmosphere and how in a Library everything seems hushed, almost reverent to the literature housed inside its walls. Or maybe it’s because seeing all those books lined up, and knowing I can take any one off the shelf and experience a story just by turning the pages opens up a world of possibilities to me. I really don’t know, but I love it and it makes me smile to know I’m now a card carrying member.
It also makes Chris smile knowing I won’t be spending so much money at Barnes & Noble.
On a side note, I don’t know about you guys but that bubble-gum pink was getting to me. Unfortunately that was the closest I could find to a purple template so I’m just going to have to be named Wisteria without prominently displaying it. If anyone knows how to create your own template, let me know!
Monday, March 31, 2008
Q&A
I enjoy writing, and I have lots of opinions, so this should be easy for me. Pick a topic and go! But I can’t seem to think of anything good. I’m also highly critical of myself, so that’s not helpful. But I don’t want to be a one-hit-wonder, forever destined to share that label with the likes of Il Devo and The Lipps. Except, yeah, that’s not really the same since I’ve never been famous and I definitely can’t sing. Anyway, now that I’ve made the commitment to make up a name and put myself out there I can’t fall into laziness and just be content to stop there.
I have a page,
Look at me!
But it hasn’t been updated
Since 2003!
So for now, I’ll get you guys involved. I love hearing what other people think as much as I like having my own opinion heard, so here’s the question. What is either your favorite, or least favorite movie adaptation of a book? If you know me at all you know I love to read. I take a book with me almost everywhere I go, even if I know I won’t have any time to read it. When I go away for a weekend I always bring at least two, just in case. So I have read many books either with the intention of seeing the movie later, or having the happy accident of reading it only to find it is, or will be a movie too. Plus, I’m always interested in hearing about a new author from a trusted source, so have at it.
I’d have to say my all time favorite is The Green Mile; written by Steven King but without all his signature craziness and gore, an excellent story and an excellent adaptation.
Runner up would have to be Big Fish which was really interesting since both pieces can stand alone, but together they expand on each other in a way that makes the story as a whole more complete.
Consolation prize goes to Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, since nothing comes close to reading the books, but for this movie they made really great choices of what to keep and didn’t get too crazy with adding things that weren’t in the books.
My least favorites were Silence of the Lamb and Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix simply because the books were too good for the movies they made from them.
I’m currently trying to decide if I want to do the book/movie thing for Kevin Spacey’s new movie 21, based on the book Bringing Down the House which I guess is where this rabbit trail came from.
I have a page,
Look at me!
But it hasn’t been updated
Since 2003!
So for now, I’ll get you guys involved. I love hearing what other people think as much as I like having my own opinion heard, so here’s the question. What is either your favorite, or least favorite movie adaptation of a book? If you know me at all you know I love to read. I take a book with me almost everywhere I go, even if I know I won’t have any time to read it. When I go away for a weekend I always bring at least two, just in case. So I have read many books either with the intention of seeing the movie later, or having the happy accident of reading it only to find it is, or will be a movie too. Plus, I’m always interested in hearing about a new author from a trusted source, so have at it.
I’d have to say my all time favorite is The Green Mile; written by Steven King but without all his signature craziness and gore, an excellent story and an excellent adaptation.
Runner up would have to be Big Fish which was really interesting since both pieces can stand alone, but together they expand on each other in a way that makes the story as a whole more complete.
Consolation prize goes to Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, since nothing comes close to reading the books, but for this movie they made really great choices of what to keep and didn’t get too crazy with adding things that weren’t in the books.
My least favorites were Silence of the Lamb and Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix simply because the books were too good for the movies they made from them.
I’m currently trying to decide if I want to do the book/movie thing for Kevin Spacey’s new movie 21, based on the book Bringing Down the House which I guess is where this rabbit trail came from.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Welcome and then some
I must say I’ve been hesitating jumping on the blog-wagon for quite some time, as I’ve been equally unsure of what to name my page and uncertain if what I would say is really important enough to write down. Not a self-esteem issue, but more of a nothing-terribly-exciting-seems-to-happen-in-my-world-lately issue. I missed the opportunity to share the drama of buying our second home, and we don’t have kids, actual or impending, to share about at the moment. And while Chris and I were excited to purchase an exercise bike, it’s not the kind of thing you jump on the internet to share pictures of with your friends and family.
One thing has been on my mind lately though, since in less then a week we get to celebrate Easter. As with any holiday, every time I walk into a store I’m assaulted with all things pastel; baskets, assorted stuffed animals, candy, eggs both plastic and edible, and a multitude of other things they’re trying to sell anyone who unwittingly gets sucked into the vortex of holiday crap that is the “seasonal isle”. This is a natural part of life that I’ve generally come to accept, as I truly believe that some stores would stock road kill if they thought it’d turn a profit, but that’s another topic for another day. However, it seems to me that somehow the holiest of all Christian holidays has become buried under the miles of chocolate bunnies and plastic grass.
Folks, this is it. The Holiday. The one that if you’re going to recognize a true meaning to celebrate, Jesus’ sacrifice for our sins would be the one to raise your glass to. Giving thanks around a table set with a big turkey dinner is a great reminder of how blessed I am. Remembering our nation’s birth by watching fireworks and eating burgers is a lot of fun. The birth of Jesus is a really important thing to honor and thank God for. But when you strip away everything my faith is based on till you get to the one fact that you can truly stand on alone, it is Christ’s death on the cross, resurrection and what that means for me.
A year or two ago I became frustrated enough that I made the decision not to incorporate the Easter bunny in this holiday when I have a family. I questioned the purpose of a giant rabbit hiding eggs and leaving baskets full of goodies and what that had to do with Christ’s sacrifice and my salvation because of it. I not only came up with no good reason for this, I further learned it was a pagan symbol for fertility which got carried over when early Christians borrowed the spring equinox for their holiday.
Now, I was raised in a household where we did holidays right. We got together with family, had good food, gave thanks, went to church, and I have fond memories filled with love and generosity and eating. I am in no way saying that I’ve decided to boycott Easter. There will be ham and cake and chocolate in my house this weekend, as well as lots of family, friends, and love. I even have a small Easter basket to fill with goodies, but I will be the one filling it, and that’s the way it’ll stay even when I have kids. But this is my challenge and I suppose my charge to you as well, to not let the most important Christian holiday be overtaken by a society screaming about the man in the bunny suit and taking all the attention away from the Man on the Cross.
I’m hereby reclaiming Easter for the sake of my Savior.
One thing has been on my mind lately though, since in less then a week we get to celebrate Easter. As with any holiday, every time I walk into a store I’m assaulted with all things pastel; baskets, assorted stuffed animals, candy, eggs both plastic and edible, and a multitude of other things they’re trying to sell anyone who unwittingly gets sucked into the vortex of holiday crap that is the “seasonal isle”. This is a natural part of life that I’ve generally come to accept, as I truly believe that some stores would stock road kill if they thought it’d turn a profit, but that’s another topic for another day. However, it seems to me that somehow the holiest of all Christian holidays has become buried under the miles of chocolate bunnies and plastic grass.
Folks, this is it. The Holiday. The one that if you’re going to recognize a true meaning to celebrate, Jesus’ sacrifice for our sins would be the one to raise your glass to. Giving thanks around a table set with a big turkey dinner is a great reminder of how blessed I am. Remembering our nation’s birth by watching fireworks and eating burgers is a lot of fun. The birth of Jesus is a really important thing to honor and thank God for. But when you strip away everything my faith is based on till you get to the one fact that you can truly stand on alone, it is Christ’s death on the cross, resurrection and what that means for me.
A year or two ago I became frustrated enough that I made the decision not to incorporate the Easter bunny in this holiday when I have a family. I questioned the purpose of a giant rabbit hiding eggs and leaving baskets full of goodies and what that had to do with Christ’s sacrifice and my salvation because of it. I not only came up with no good reason for this, I further learned it was a pagan symbol for fertility which got carried over when early Christians borrowed the spring equinox for their holiday.
Now, I was raised in a household where we did holidays right. We got together with family, had good food, gave thanks, went to church, and I have fond memories filled with love and generosity and eating. I am in no way saying that I’ve decided to boycott Easter. There will be ham and cake and chocolate in my house this weekend, as well as lots of family, friends, and love. I even have a small Easter basket to fill with goodies, but I will be the one filling it, and that’s the way it’ll stay even when I have kids. But this is my challenge and I suppose my charge to you as well, to not let the most important Christian holiday be overtaken by a society screaming about the man in the bunny suit and taking all the attention away from the Man on the Cross.
I’m hereby reclaiming Easter for the sake of my Savior.
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