Traditions

So I've had enough of the yearly comments made by my children under their breath (and over their breath) about how we don't have any Christmas traditions in our family.

Now I could argue that. (There has always been a Christmas tree, Scott.)

But then again, growing up, they had to be flexible with their holidays as they shuttled back and forth between parents and adapted to a blended family. Maybe their point is valid.

This is the year it's gonna change. There will be TRADITIONS.

New socks on Christmas Eve. From now until the day I die, each one will open a present on Christmas Eve that will contain a new pair of socks. Everyone will have happy feet.

A pickle in the Christmas tree. That's right. A pickle. It is a Norwegian tradition (from what I've heard). I'm adopting it. The pickle is hidden in the tree and there is a treat for every girl and boy who can find it :-)

And lastly, there will be music. Jingle Bells and other tunes played on wrapping paper tubes. Those lovely cardboard instruments resonate a fabulous tone when whacked on one's own (or someone else's) head.

Everyone should have a few traditions tucked in their heart pocket as they go through life. I hope I'm not too late. Merry Christmas to all.

Slugs, Snails, Puppy dog tails

Does every boy need a dog?

Or is it that every dog needs a boy?

Driving the Dream

So I didn't get an interview with University of Utah. It knocked the wind out of me for a moment. Then I realized. That first rejection letter is like getting the first dent in your car. It's a big deal. All of the subsequent dings, however, are barely mentionable.

So it will be with getting into PA school.

The first dent. Done.

Now I can refocus on driving. I'm sure there will be a few more dings along the way, but they will be more inconvenient, than upsetting. As long as the car still drives, I'm still in the game. For as long as it takes.

Today

I've been to Scotland and back. There is much to say. But its a bit overwhelming at the moment to put thoughts, pictures and stories into any kind of coherent offering.

So... I would just like to say. That today. I stained E. coli in microbiology lab and looked at it under the microscope.

I'll call you!

Historically, I have been dragged into the cosmos of technology one microchip at a time and only then by very persistent and determined children. Not so with this iPhone. The minute I saw it, I was knocking and begging at the door of opportunity. I wanted one SO BAD that I had to have the "grown-up" talk with my heart (you know, the one about your money being committed elsewhere yadah, yadah, yadah....) When my family presented me with a box, just the right size and weight, my heart skipped out of its pocket and became erratic (another "grown-up" talk about being grateful so as not to be disappointed). But, there it was, sitting in my hand!!! Stunned and dazed. Then giggles, then tears and then a weird gripping and wringing of my hands (a gesture I have adopted when I am emotionally "over the top", I guess.)

I listened so hard to all the instructions so I would do everything right. I got my itunes loaded, all my phone numbers in, took a few pictures, surfed the internet, downloaded a really cool medical app and a princess app for Scarlet, checked my email and sent a couple of celebratory texts. It wasn't until this morning, when I realized I didn't know how to make a phone call! (True story)

THANK YOU FAMILY! I wanted it so much. So much. Thank you.

Haiku Two

Sleeping ok now

Still reach for the phone on the late night drives home.

Old habits always flicker with hope.

Still not in Hawaii

Soon, no longer in Iowa.

Hearts breaking. Hearts mending

Transitions. A messy concept.

I've been brave. Can I cry now?

She's being brave. She's definitely crying.

Touch down.

Touch back.

Still point, then

Back to the endless ocean

Heaven

Avocados.

Chocolate brownies.

God's gift to man.