Monday, June 16, 2008

All I needed to know I learned at a funeral...

We've all seen those cute posters talking about how we learned everything we need to know about life in kindergarten but after the last few days I've experienced, I think I learned even more from attending a funeral...

As I sat there listening to all the wonderful things people had to say about Jason's Grandma Phyllis, I felt like I was hearing one of the best sermons ever said in church. I know most funerals are sad and depressing but this one was full of laughter and yes tears too. I heard stories of how Grandma always took care of everyone before herself and how she used to grow her garden, can the beans, and make huge dinners that could feed an army. I also heard how special she made people feel and how much richer everyone's lives are for having known her. I know mine is...

I found myself yelling at Janie today for breaking something, and without realizing it I was thinking back to something David had said at the memorial about how Grandma never yelled at them for an accident and that she was always reminding them that things are just things. They are never as important as people. I know we all know that, but do we really act out our days like we should?

On a day that was so sad, and a loss that was so large I had this overwelming feeling that I was being transformed in some way. I felt like I was given such a huge reminder about what life is really about and what is really important. In a world that is so easy to fall into the trap of wanting to be like the Jones' there was this amazing woman who had so much love inside of her for not only her family and friends but for God and His son that she couldn't help but to live a life they would be proud of. Not once at that memorial did I hear how big her house was, or if she drove a fancy car or had a big job title attached to her name. She lived for Christ and left a legacy for all of us to live up to. She will be so very missed...






Phyllis Eldene Lindal


October 6, 1916- June 9, 2008

Wednesday, June 4, 2008

A different world



I never thought I would be one of "those people"...You know, one of those moms that buys organic foods, wooden toys, cloth diapers etc. This has been a long road of coming to this point but I feel like a force outside of myself is steering the ship so to speak. I am extremely proud to be cloth diapering my little one. It's not that much extra work, and it's saves us money- oh and it's better for the environment too! I've stopped using my dishwasher (crazy I know!) and cut our electric bill by $30-$50 a month! This week I found myself giddy over a newly hung clothes line! What has the world come to!?! Every morning and every evening I actually enjoy hanging clothes for a few quiet moments to reflect by myself and I really enjoy the time I spend watering our garden in hopes of a bountiful harvest. Until then, I am searching out great deals at the grocery store. Just today I have processed over 10 lbs of green beans that are now ready to freeze for the winter! It's funny how life has a way of working itself out. I'm not sure how I got on the this journey to a more natural existance but I am really enjoying the ride!