It started like this

A Tale of Two Mothers - India

2012-02-13T15:43:00.000-07:00

just finished reading Learning to Breathe!

2012-02-12T18:29:00.003-07:00

Learning To Breathe
My Year Long Quest to Bring Calm to My Life

excerpt

Priscilla's website

Enjoyed this book tremendously. Outlines the importance of taking time to heal and being open to opportunities.

peace and warriors

2012-01-17T20:33:00.002-07:00

The Give Back Yoga
Foundation website

Received a note today…

From the founders of The Give Back Yoga Foundation, we gratefully acknowledge your generous 2012 donation of XX, which will be used to support the Veterans Yoga Program. Your support enables veterans to receive our range of multi-media yoga and meditation products donated by leading yoga masters for their practice.
For your information, we are currently sending to veterans two new products: Karen Soltes’ iRest Yoga Nidra: Easing into Stillness (she teaches at the Washington, DC, VA hospital as part of the War Related Illnesses and Injuries Study Center), and Suzanne Manafort’s "Breathe In, Breathe Out: Quick and Easy Breathing Practices to Help Balance the Nervous System,” designed for the Mindful Yoga Therapy for Veterans Coping with Trauma Program, a component of the PTSD Rehabilitation Residential Program (PRRP) in Newington, CT. PTSD VA info

No comments from the skeptics..

If these warriors are finding peace – that is peace in my book.

Yoga for me serves two purposes – makes me stronger and allows me to set aside uninterrupted time with hopefully not a lot of mind chatter – some call that peace.

winning with women

2012-01-14T15:48:00.003-07:00

catchy ring...
This morning I attended my first Winning with Women meeting.
Observations

Organized and thoughtful but not stuffy or "agenda" driven.

This was not a women's GOP "luncheon" it was an active conversation relaying information and ideas that will lead to direct action. The kind of meetings I prefer.

Gathered together were like minded ladies asking tough questions... putting together pieces and ideas to bridge change in the future.
Many of the women in the room had facts in which in some ways harder to work with rather than emotions. But the facts are good. My emotions will not stand up in a heated discussion but proven evidence of cronyism and out of control power hunger (rather representation of the people) will stand.
I will keep these ladies in the radar and I am sure I will bumping into them along the way.

[free-them] 2011 PSA

2012-01-11T13:11:00.000-07:00

2012-01-11T13:02:00.002-07:00

I skipped my hand at guessing NH - but I probably would have gotten pretty close.
My classes started on Monday so I am weaning my self a bit from C-SPAN. It is too early in the process to get overloaded on that.
I have to thank the current administration for recognizing today as Human Trafficking Awareness Day. We had over 60 people at the task force meeting last night and many more people at the GOP open house. It is the season of busyiness. I am enjoying it.

one off for Iowa

2012-01-04T15:30:00.002-07:00

But I am sure I will not be that luck for NH and SC.

1. Romney – most stable of the pack.
2. Paul – most unstable of the pack, but he is likeable in that crazy uncle kind of way. came in 3rd
3. Santorum - solid on the social issues, but right now that is not the issue came in 2nd
4. Gingrich – I know…. -
5. Perry - a Texan, AF Veteran
6. Bachman – solid -
7. Huntsman – like him – but they say he is a wolf in sheeps clothing.

They are now headed to New Hampshire - I wish I could head that way for the chaos.
The Caucus here is Feb 7th, My daughter's 21st birthday.
21 years ago I did not even understand the caucus process and I am not sure I even completely understand it now.

How Eskimos Keep Their Babies Warm by Mei-Ling Hopgood

2012-01-04T09:40:00.000-07:00

Suraya Sadeed = someone I would like to buy chai some day

2012-01-02T22:28:00.002-07:00

Wow - Just finished reading Forbidden Lessons in a Kabul Guesthouse.

from her website

about Suraya:

Few people reach the stage in their lives that Suraya did in 1993 – one wherein a secure lifestyle in the USA is abandoned in preference for a knife-edge existence running bundles of cash dollars, aid and, most crucially of all, hope, into some of the most remote and war-ravaged villages on earth – in Afghanistan. Suraya Sadeed reached that point in her life by accident; she was propelled to take on her life mission by circumstances beyond her control. Yet at the same time her education, business acumen, rebellious nature, and her innate generosity of spirit meant that she was uniquely qualified to take on the punishing, yet extraordinary fulfilling humanitarian work. In her words: “I had never received the kind of welcome as I did in the craggy mountains and wind-blasted plains of Afghanistan, from people who had so little to share with me. It took my very breath away, and humbled me beyond words.”
Suraya was born and raised in Kabul, Afghanistan and immigrated to the United States after the Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan. In the US she became a successful business woman. During the height of the Afghan Civil War (1993), Suraya returned to Afghanistan and was shocked by the horrific conditions of children and the destruction of her homeland. That same year, she established a non-profit organization; Help the Afghan Children, Inc. Since then, Suraya's courageous efforts in providing humanitarian aid, medical care, education, and hope against seemingly insurmountable odds in some of the most inhospitable conditions imaginable, have directly benefited an estimated 1.7 million Afghan children and their families.

aaa

2012-01-02T08:15:00.003-07:00

Excited to be volunteering on several campaigns this season.
I will use this location to post about them soon... Love the idea of volunteering for the sake of change.

I am watching a fair amount of cspan and I love it.

Learning more about social media and twitter - improving more each day.

Excited to start school again.

Looking to travel by April.

2012

2012-01-02T08:13:00.001-07:00

Happy New Year.
No official resolutions.
I have so many bouncing in my heart and head = just better left unsaid.

Read more, give more, be more, do more, learn more

Just started reading
Forbidden Lessons in a Kabul Guesthouse
By Suraya Sadeed

I have five books waiting to be read - but my text books should be here tomorrow so - assuming those will be set aside.

getting excited

2011-12-29T11:50:00.001-07:00

I have to remember some of these inspiring words are speeches – crafted my media consultants.
But darn ---- I am getting more and more excited to the 2012 Road to the White House.

Predictions for Iowa Caucus

1. Romney – most stable of the pack.
2. Paul – most unstable of the pack, but he is likeable in that crazy uncle kind of way.
3. Santorum - solid on the social issues, but right now that is not the issue
4. Gingrich – I know….
5. Perry - a Texan, AF Veteran
6. Bachman – solid -
7. Huntsman – like him – but they say he is a wolf in sheeps clothing.
No matter what - any of these are better than current state.

my favorite gift this year

2011-12-29T11:27:00.009-07:00

I am thankful for good friends - and extremely lucky to have a talented and skilled friend that hand carves ornaments and turns beautiful wood bowls! Thank YOU! They are beautiful.

For those that are coming to the Zonta Pikes Peak Glass Slipper Ball on Jan 28th one of his bowls will be in the silent auction.

So proud to have this Michigan craft wood here in Colorado!

If you are interested just let me know and I can make the connection.

last few days of 2011 - actions

2011-12-29T11:17:00.003-07:00

Final days to give. They need it and you need the tax deduction.

Here are things that matter to me and could use a second look…

USO = link enough said, right. This is an outstanding organization and is working hard for our veterans.
Indy Give – link Colorado Springs focused and it includes Human Trafficking Task Force of Southern Colorado. Give local.
Fisher House – link amazing organization… Providing a "home away from home" for military families to be close to a loved one during hospitalization for an illness, disease or injury
Sloan Kettering – link I have been donating to this organization ever since I read the book by Laura Landro Survivor info on book – and since I lost two people this year to cancer it will always be on my list.
Kiva – website microlending – love this organization, I feel empowered that I can help in my small investment in someone’s life.
Refugees website the more I learn of the plight of a refugee the more I feel I need to act.

While I love hiking, yoga, nature, politics and animals – I feel we just need to focus on people at the moment.

amazing read - recommend

2011-12-17T13:52:00.002-07:00

Nothing prepared me for the loss of my mother. Even knowing that she would die did not prepare me. A mother, after all, is your entry into the world. She is the shell in which you divide and become a life. Waking up in a world without her like waking up in world without the sky; unimaginable. And because my mother died relatively young – fifty-five- I feel robbed of twenty years with her I’d always imagined having. (Meghan O’Rourke, p.10)

I did not write these words but I feel as if I have thought them a thousand times.
The Long Goodbye by Meghan O’Rourke is probably the best memoir I have read all year and probably the most insight look on grief I have ever read.

author website

An excerpt The Long Goodbye Excerpt

good reading

2011-12-15T03:23:00.000-07:00

Thoroughly enjoyed the entire book
Linda Yellin gives me hope and Randy proves I have a second chance.

check

2011-12-12T09:30:00.003-07:00

Baby Shower - complete - thank you for all of the support for Ocean! Chelsea has everything she needs... Pictures to be posted later. But good food and good friends!

Painting - almost complete - thanks to my awesome nephew Paul!
Packed and ready for Buenos Aires.

Taking two book to reads on the plane - plus the Kindle.

Both of them Memoirs... of course

Sometimes I Feel Like a Nut -Jill Kargman (so far very funny) Jill's site
The Last Blind Date - Linda Yellen Linda's site

Opting to leave the TouchPad at home - too much to carry.
If you need anything from BA - let me know.
I actually had a few unique requests...

until then.

THE INVISIBLE WAR - Sundance Trailer (12/02)

2011-12-05T22:02:00.000-07:00

I Wore the Ocean in the Shape of a Girl: A Memoir

2011-12-05T16:31:00.006-07:00

finished reading this weekend

I will be thinking about the author Kelle Groom for awhile.

if you like memoirs... try it.

unnecessary updates

2011-12-02T17:52:00.003-07:00

ok it is December 2, 2011 and my short list is long.
I have one more soldier care package to send. – smaller group than years in the past – but technically that is a good thing.
I am adopting a military family here in town – so I will not have to mail any of that – that is for next week!

I am traveling for a week to Argentina – so I need to prep things in advance.

Last night we finished the Angel Tree presents from the tree at work. My daughter said - “mom, she wanted a scarf – you could have made her one.” Feeling slightly guilty about the scarf purchased at Walmart and Made in China – I grabbed the crochet hook and the largest yarn we had. I knitted a scarf in three hours – 40 minutes of it walking very slowly on the treadmill. It is moderately difficult to do both things at once but I did not want to give up either tasks.

Surprisingly, We picked up a few trinkets from the dollar store. Chelsea learned from her internship at the nursing home that toiletries are needed and they like bright shiny things. Dollar stores usually have plenty of the like on hand.

Focus..

I am currently reading Wore the Ocean in the Shape of a Girl: A Memoir
Author website
NY Times review
It is a hard read – emotionally. I am hoping for the best of author

Off to drill for the weekend – the last for year. It has been a rough year in regards to that. Hoping to start 1sg School in Jan and move forward.

I need to wrap my head around the fact I am hosting a baby shower in week.

Also, need to pick up the table top Christmas Tree from Whole Foods and oh... impulsively getting the entire main level of my house painted beginning on Tuesday.

perfect.. Chicks with Guns

2011-11-27T21:50:00.004-07:00

I do not own this yet -

but I am looking forward to when I do...

Chicks with Guns by Lindsay McCrum

It was featured on NPR. NPR link

Homeless Veterans - need our help

2011-11-27T07:41:00.003-07:00

I saw a facebook post that grabbed my attention today -

If this does not stir somethign up inside of you, I am not sure what will.
Here are some facts.

VA estimates that 107,000 veterans are homeless on any given night.
23% of the homeless population are veterans
33% of the male homeless population are veterans
47% served Vietnam-era
17% served post-Vietnam
15% served pre-Vietnam
67% served three or more years
33% were stationed in war zone
25% have used VA homeless services
85% completed high school/GED, compared to 56% of non-veterans
89% received an honorable discharge
79% reside in central cities
16% reside in suburban areas
5% reside in rural areas
76% experience alcohol, drug or mental health problems
46% are white males, compared to 34% of non-veterans
46% are age 45 or older, compared to 20% non-veterans

Veterans’ Children Also Carry the Burden of Hunger
Feed Our Vets

Homeless Women Veterans
Article from Huffington Post

Here are some ways to help.

Every Purchase Funds Meals for Homeless and Hungry Veterans.
The Veterans Site

Additional Facts

Just do something...

What brought a huge smile today?

2011-11-21T09:27:00.000-07:00

Driving to work and I ended up behind a truck and trailer loaded with Christmas trees.
The pine limbs were spilling out the side of the truck and all I could see were trunks bouncing in front of me.
I passed him because clearly he cannot accelerate over 50.
It was an early 70's blue Ford pick truck with the guy had on a flannel shirt gripping the steering wheel smiling.
Now that made me smile.
Hoping all of the trees find good homes and his truck trailer make through the season.
I am thankful for that small glimpse of real life today.

TEDxPentagon - LT John Pucillo, USN - No Limits, No Excuses

2011-11-20T21:17:00.000-07:00

Finished reading Maman's Homesick Pie

2011-11-11T21:17:00.002-07:00

Finished reading this on my flight from Chicago to Detroit. I enjoyed the stories and the honest writing on these pages. Donia Bijan paints a beutiful story about her family and the trials they faced coming to the US from Iran.
Donia created her own path and followed her dream to become a chef.
The recipes look very tastey and she had me hooked on her very first recipe in the first chapter.
Persian Cardamom Tea.
Love Cardamom.. the smell, the taste and the memories
Link to National Geographic Traveler Article

take action

2011-11-09T06:04:00.000-07:00

GET OUT THE WORD!

FWD this Video: There's a Famine in the Horn of Africa

2011-11-08T22:03:00.001-07:00

Floods in Thailand

2011-11-08T14:21:00.001-07:00

Three months of heavy monsoon rain have flooded a third of the Thailand since late July, most severely in the Chao Phraya but also in the Mekong River basin. Northern and central areas were worst hit initially but now the run-off is draining south, threatening the capital city Bangkok as it combines with a seasonal high tide.

Thailand’s Meteorological Department has been issuing detailed and regularly updated forecasts. According to the most recent one, during 28-30 Oct, the moderate high pressure area from China extends to cover the Northeast of Thailand and the South China Sea. The westerly trough will move across the upper North of Thailand. During 31 October–3 November, another high pressure area from China will extend to cover upper Thailand causing cool weather.

hoping that the ground can find a way to absord this water!

do something...women and children in the Horn of Africa need you!

2011-11-07T11:35:00.001-07:00

Right now 13.3 million people are in crisis because of the Famine, War, and Drought in the Horn of Africa.

This is the worst drought in 60 years, the worst famine in 20, and there is non-stop violence.

Today, you can make a big difference by taking part in FWD Day. It’s our massive push to spread awareness and ensure the Horn of Africa tragedy no longer goes overlooked.

Our goal is to generate 13M+ tweets and shares of the FWD facts. Celebrities like Uma Thurman, Josh Hartnett, Geena Davis, Lance Armstrong, and Anthony Bourdain are on board. Check out their videos at: youtube.com/usaidvideo. But we need you to show your support too! Join the powerful FWD coalition by:

· Tweeting with the #FWD hash-tag,
· Sharing updates from the USAID Facebook page,
· E-mailing your friends and telling people about usaid.gov/FWD,
· Creating your own video on YouTube, or
· Texting “GIVE” to 777444 to donate $10.Saving lives doesn’t take a lot. It just takes a lot of us. Help us reach our goal of 13.3M shares—FWD facts, FWD relief!

2011-11-03T11:49:00.001-06:00

support local charities - human trafficking task force

2011-11-01T10:21:00.000-06:00

Yoga Journal - Yoga Well-Being - In Need of Yoga Nidra

2011-10-29T12:56:00.000-06:00

Yoga Journal - Yoga Well-Being - In Need of Yoga Nidra

sleep yoga

ideas

2011-10-23T09:51:00.002-06:00

The Four “Ps”
Governments and international organizations have declared that an effective response to human trafficking must include four key elements (US State Department & UNODC):

1. Prevention—decrease the number of people trafficked.

2. Protection—increase protection, support to victims and survivors.

3. Prosecution—investigate and prosecute traffickers, strengthen laws and legal responses.

4. Partnerships—to bring together diverse experiences, amplify messages, and leverage resources of law enforcement, service providers, community members, and survivors.

colorado project.combat human trafficking

2011-10-12T20:34:00.002-06:00

Comfort

Blueberry
Yoga
Telluride
Noosa
Socks, Wool

13

2011-10-10T13:00:00.003-06:00

I am not superstitous.
But I have never been a fan of the number 13.
This year marks 13 years since my mom last took a breath here on earth and of course I am not a fan of that yet.
We are celebrating her tonight in a small way at the Cracker Barrel.
She loved that place and often chose that place for familiarity and consistency.
Chelsea was little then and she would walk her through the toys and candy areas while we waited.

13 misses

her laugh

her handwriting

seeing her twirl her hair

snippets Guiding Light

her excitement for flea marketing and cookies jars

Christmastime with her

Tabu perfume

her tenacity

compassion

practical opinions

her excitement for Chelsea

her voice

her hands

well.. ok then

2011-10-09T10:31:00.000-06:00

It is too painful to make sense of any of this

2011-10-07T10:46:00.001-06:00

The Happy Movie

2011-09-29T22:49:00.002-06:00

screening OCTOBER 26, 2011 6:30-830 Armstrong Hall - Colorado College

ABOUT THE FILM
From the Academy Award® nominated director Roko Belic (Genghis Blues) comes a new cinematic adventure. HAPPY is a feature‐length documentary that leads viewers on a journey across 5 continents in search of the keys to happiness. The film addresses many of the fundamental issues we face in today’s society: how do we balance the allure of money, fameand social status with our needs for strong relationships, health and personal fulfillment?
Through remarkable human stories and cutting‐edge science, HAPPY leads us toward a deeper understanding of why and how we can pursue more fulfilling, healthier and happier lives. HAPPY takes the viewer from the bayous of Louisiana to the deserts of Namibia, from the beaches of Brazil to the mountains of Bhutan. Listen to the wisdom of a Kolkata rickshaw driver, the compassion of a volunteer at Mother Teresa’s Home for the Dying and the knowledge of some of the world’s leading happiness researchers. Witness as middle school students applaud the bravery of their classmates during a moving presentation on bullying. HAPPY combines real‐life human drama and cutting‐edge science to provide insights into the mysteries of happiness.

KEY POINTS
• Connectedness: strong relationships with friends, family and community make people
happier.
• Generosity: giving increases happiness.
• Novelty: breaking out of routine makes people happier.
• Play: people who experience physical aerobic exercise are happier.
• Flow: engaging in a fully absorbing hobby makes people happier.
• Health and Longevity: people who are happy are healthier and even live longer.
• The formula for happiness is not the same for everyone, but research shows that almost
everyone can become happier.
WEBSITES
• Movie Site: www.thehappymovie.com
• Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/HAPPY‐ADocumentary/
115243518492062
• Twitter: http://twitter.com/TheHappyMovie
• Happiness Blog: http://happymentary.blogspot.com/
• YouTube: http://youtube.com/WadiRumProductions
• Vimeo: http://vimeo.com/wadirum

HAPPY - Trailer

2011-09-29T22:48:00.000-06:00

"The Worth Of Things" by Melissa Axel ♥ ☆ ∞ with Laurie Maves ART

2011-09-28T09:09:00.001-06:00

2011-09-18T05:14:00.000-06:00

Tossed and turned all night
Puppy was up three times
The Fire alarm is now beeping
And no milk for the coffee..
But still looking forward to the incline, church, yoga and picking up a few groceries later.

Official Sex+Money Documentary Trailer-HD

2011-09-17T12:05:00.001-06:00

The only way not to find this problem is simply not look for it.

2011-09-17T11:53:00.003-06:00

4th Annual Human Trafficking
Awareness Symposium
10/21/11, 6:00 - 8:00 pm

Film: Sex + Money See the human face of suffering where in our world, children are bought and sold, women ravaged for pocket change. The abuse of sex and money drives the global trade in human beings.
See also that the authors observed, in the midst of tragedy, remnants of strength, hope and dignity.

10/22/11, 8:00am - 4:00pm
Symposium: Supply & Demand
8:00 - 8:30 - Human Trafficking 101
8:30 - Registration
9:00 - Opening
4:00 - Closing

Youth With A Mission Campus
505 Pope's Bluff Trail
Colorado Springs, CO 80907

National, State, and Local Information - Featuring:
Linda Smith - Founder and President, Shared Hope

Beth Klein - Klein Frank, P. C. Michael Holtby, LCSW, BCD
AnnJanette Alejano-Steele, Ph.D - Director, Laboratory to Combat Human Trafficking
Amanda Finger, Executive Director, Laboratory to Combat Human Trafficking
Anne Darr, Victim Specialist, FBI

Aubrey Terry, MSW, Women's Resource Agency
Chris Burns, Sgt., Co Springs Police Dept.

Sarah Ray, Co-Founder Yobel Market

$15 Registration
INCLUDES FRIDAY FILM, LUNCH, SYMPOSIUM
SOME SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE

MORE PROGRAM AND REGISTRATION DETAILS TO FOLLOW!

Fountain 5K for the Fallen

2011-09-03T09:24:00.002-06:00

airplane fiction reading...

2011-08-28T09:20:00.004-06:00

I should have been reading my homework... but.... easy read and enjoyable. Good airplane/airport pick.

When their men go off to war, Babe, Millie, and Grace, three childhood friends in Massachusetts, live on letters, and in dread of telegrams that can bring only bad news. But as the war drags on, and when peace breaks out, they experience changes that move them in directions they never dreamed possible. The women lose their innocence, struggle to raise their children, and find meaning and love in unexpected places.
And as they change, so does America—from a country in which people know their place in the social hierarchy to a world in which women’s rights, the Civil Rights movement, and technological innovations present new possibilities and uncertainties.
Yet Babe, Millie, and Grace remain bonded by their past, even as their children grow up and away and a new society rises from the ashes of the war.
A story of war, loss, and the scars they leave, Next To Love depicts the enduring power of love and friendship, and illuminates a transformational moment in American history.

rope yoga

2011-08-25T04:40:00.001-06:00

Seriously. amazing.
My birthday treat. I have been eyeing this studio and made time during my trip to go.
It was very powerful and focused on upper body strength. I still love hot, but hoping I can find something in CO like this.

familiar places

2011-08-25T04:34:00.000-06:00

2011-08-02T15:50:00.002-06:00

I feel as if I need or should be doing something. Not sure what but something.
I feel like I barely scratch the surface.
Then I read a book like the The Thirdwave and I know I am only scratching.
The Thirdwave Book Site
I think I am read to jump and never look back but I know I feel like I cannot right now. But really I can.

strange -

2011-08-01T10:36:00.004-06:00

I just finished readng Love Shrinks over the weekend. It is a memoir of a marriage counselor and self-help author that writes about her own failed marriage. I read it with my eyes wide open - very interesting and disturbing.

excerpt

Run for Congo Women - Denver 2011

2011-07-30T21:41:00.001-06:00

Join us for Run for Congo Women - Denver on Sunday, July 31, 2011 at Washington Park! This is a 3.1 mile run/walk in the park (mostly paved terrain). Dogs and strollers are welcome, and the event is on rain or shine. We'll have live music and raffle prizes! Check-in/registration begins at 7am and the run/walk begins at 8:30am.

this says a lot...

2011-07-19T15:02:00.002-06:00

Kiva

Kiva is now in Detroit! Kiva recently launched a new non-profit, community coalition to bring more than $500,000 in microloans to Detroit small businesses.
Our First Kiva City
Kiva City is a new way for Kiva to accelerate the growth of U.S. microfinance by empowering communities. Our first Kiva City is Kiva Detroit, a partnership between Kiva, Michigan Corps, Knight Foundation and ACCION USA to expand the reach of Kiva lenders to the entrepreneurs in Detroit.
Kiva City was announced by President Bill Clinton at CGI America. You can see the video here.

Kiva City
Kiva Detroit is the first Kiva City, a new initiative that enables US communities to bring Kiva to their local entrepreneurs. Kiva City creates alliances between Kiva, local civic leaders, local community organizations, and financial institutions. A Kiva City alliance, such as Kiva Detroit, enables Kiva to expand the reach of its lenders, through the help of the local community.

according to the WSJ

2011-07-19T10:27:00.001-06:00

Buying and selling dogs is illegal in Iran, unless they are guard dogs or used by police. Dogs are considered ‘haram,’ or ‘unclean’ in Islam.

OLovesM

2011-07-18T10:16:00.002-06:00

Discovered this in Aspen!
Welcome to OLovesM– we are a line of unique bags created from un-used yoga mats, and other materials that companies were going to throw away. I have given them refuge for their remnants, and created the OlovesM Bag Line. Enjoy your bag and remember: You are using a bag that IS making a difference!

All our bags are proudly made in the USA

Check out the website - and share along the way!
WebStore - Really a Must!

Aspen

2011-07-17T21:37:00.003-06:00

Beaver Dam near Maroon Bells

Apsen Flowers

Yes, I could move here...

San Luis Peak

2011-07-04T08:42:00.002-06:00

HP TouchPad

2011-07-01T09:01:00.003-06:00

Yes, I work in High Tech - but I "operate" at home pretty much low tech. I do not have an MP3 player, I do not have a SmartPhone, I just recently turned off my cable and I keep things relatively simple. But, this month I am going to step things up... I am ordering the HP TouchPad!

HP TouchPad Store

Yeah!

I love Aspen, I love the Aspens

2011-06-28T10:34:00.000-06:00

2011-06-22T05:45:00.001-06:00

Choices… choices..
Analysis
More and more.
The lists never get smaller.
For about the last year I have been using Kiva.org.
I am a huge advocate of microlending and Kiva makes the process somewhat easy. The selection process is what makes this difficult.
I typically spend about 45 minutes narrowing down my choices. I debate on country and the project.
I carefully look at all the pictures. I know a pictures is worth a thousand words… So I study them. Then I read the Bios.
It has been great to watch the results. I guess for me it is the small things sometimes!

Cheyenne Cannon

2011-06-19T08:21:00.001-06:00

so lucky to have amazing friends that love to cook

2011-06-19T08:18:00.003-06:00

Brown Rice and Swiss Chard

Shrimp and Sea Bass

Peppers stuffed with Cheese

How to make Moroccan Tea

2011-06-09T13:10:00.002-06:00

How to make Moroccan Tea

Add two tablespoons of loose green tea (Sultan - yellow/green box) To a Teapot

Pour one cup of boiling water over top.

Let sit for a minute

Pour one cup of the tea into a glass slowly without shaking. Let sit.

Poor another cup of very hot water into the teapot and shake and swirl the loose tea.

Pour a second cup of tea - this will be discard.

They believe by shaking the tea and water together any dirt will be washed away as the tea leaves have opened.

Pour the first tea glass back into the pot and fill the pot with hot water leaving enough room to add the mint leaves.

Place the tea pot back over the heat and reboil. Remove from heat and add a handful of fresh mint leaves.

Add approximately 3/4 cups of sugar to the pot.

To mix the sugar tea you should slowly pour cups of tea and filter from the glass to the pot several times.
When you serve the team pour the tea so that each glass has foam on top. This represents good tea.

Also, it is said that if you stir with a metal spoon it ruins the flavor so avoid at all costs!

Wednesday

2011-06-08T05:23:00.003-06:00

Midweek.
We have been goign to the classroom for the three days now. Some volunteers come from anywhere between a week to three months so it is very transient group. The children are pretty much happy to see anyone that walks in saying hello, sings songs, makes crafts and ultimately has the coveted stickers. As like everyone around the world stickers are key to any 3-5 year old's heart. So, if you consider this bring more stickers.
The house is very comfortable and the routines move effortlessly.
I went back to the medina to pick up a few gifts, scarves and camel purse for Abby.
I am reluctant to spend a ton of money in the medina. I know they survive on tourism but I am not completely convinced that all funded is actually good.

oh btw

2011-06-06T14:29:00.002-06:00

Bread is sacred and cannot be placed in the trash or food waste!
Khobst is the same reference as Iraq but Mohammed mentioned that they do not samoon at all.
The good thing is that use and recognize the word shoof. which mean listen/look to grab the attention. I suprisingly new the words Lion and Princess assad/alymira.. both equally imporant to children and children stories - and yet it was important to us in Iraq too!

2011-06-06T14:20:00.003-06:00

Cannot upload the photos until later. But the trip is going very well. There is a mixture of volunteering and cultural exchange. Yes, I am using my arabic but I still have so much to learn it is incredible. I am working in the inner city of Rabat at the IBNY street school. The children are children of beggars and they have a safe place to go during the day for education, food, clothing and a clean environment. Sadly, for their parents begging can be the best option of choice as the economy is not that great and the jobs are scarce.
Lots of singing, reading, coloring and small chit chat. They enjoy the attention and especially the singing.
The capital city is very cosmopolitan and in fact the home base does not reflect most of how Moroccans live. Which is ok. It is large home that can fit up to 30 volunteers. We are less than 1/2 that now.
We are near the ocean and there is plenty of humidity in the air.
The medina is jammed packed with vendors selling goods. Contemplating any major purchases.
We shall see the rugs do not compare to the rugs from Iraq. They are known for shoes and leather tanning.
The meals have been very tasty and have been able to eat easily with no problems.

H-24

2011-06-01T06:01:00.000-06:00

Almost ready.
Last night I picked up a new memory card, baby wipes and chewable pepto.
I have the suitcase packed even with a little room in case I have last minute add ons.
Exhausted the mental note check list. Even added band aids and Neosporin.
I need to grab sunscreen just in case.

I downloaded a few books for the kindle. I had not used it too much but the last month I have used it more.

I am ready. The door opened – I am walking

Slovenia

2011-05-29T07:52:00.003-06:00

Mission Complete.

Slovenia is one of the most beautiful places I have visited.

Traveling always gives me a time to think and analyze this trip with no exception.

No big ah-has just a few mental notes.

3 weeks until Morocco

2011-05-21T06:10:00.004-06:00

I will post updates here and on fb.
Cross Cultural Solutions

Morocco, known locally as “Al Maghrib,” has been occupied by numerous groups since ancient times, including the indigenous Berbers as well as Romans, Arabs, Spanish, and French. Though Morocco gained independence in 1956, the country still carries influences from all of its previous inhabitants. Present-day Morocco is home to over 34 million people. Over half of the population is concentrated in urban areas, but 40 percent of residents rely on agriculture for their livelihood.

looking for ward to chai, visiting and the sooq.

Blown away

2011-05-21T05:58:00.003-06:00

This is probably one of the best books I have read in the last few years. I am so inspired by the Rye Barcott. I sent him a note and thanked him for his all around service. Once you read this you will want to act... in some manner.

** I recommend this to everyone, hands down.

The website for the book with additional details...

It Happened on the Way to War

To find out more about Kiberia in Africa visit

Power of 26

2011-05-02T06:39:00.000-06:00

Loved...loved it

2011-04-17T18:25:00.002-06:00

Day of Honey A Memoir of Food, Love, and War by Annia Ciezadlo The stories of Iraqi cultute and food made me smile.

2011-02-11T05:03:00.000-07:00

All during my deployment I carried these small notebooks in my pockets. They were light colors and not your normal soldier notepads. I scribbled endlessly and tried to capture Arabic. I saved them and now treasure them. Last night after a very long day I found a package on my steps from a very dear friend. It was my Chinese New Year package – When we get busy these things just happen. Inside were three brand new mini notepads. She had no idea the significance of the one’s I have now, so I am taking this a sign that these too will carry traces of another great adventure.

1/2 Way Finished Reading

2010-12-16T19:43:00.004-07:00

The Dirty Life
on Farming, Food and Love
By Kristin Kimball

I am definitely enjoy this book.
I ordered it prior to Santa delivering the Kindle.

Article on NPR... excerpt too

The Kindle only has reference type books right now but will download some for the trip.

this week -

2010-12-16T19:32:00.002-07:00

Dec 14, 1941 - Oct 10, 1998
Happy Birthday!

2010

2010-11-11T20:56:00.000-07:00

Veteran's Day....
Thank you.

very good...

2010-10-04T14:12:00.002-06:00

Dr. Coppola, author of Coppola: A Pediatric Surgeon in Iraq, had reservations as he left behind his wife and three sons for a war he did not understand. But Dr. Coppola would fulfill the promise he made to six years of service in exchange for a military-issued medical scholarship that allowed him to pursue his dream of being a pediatric surgeon. Twice-deployed to the 332nd Air Force Theater Hospital in Balad, Dr. Coppola bore witness to some of the most appalling aspects of war, including soldiers and children battered and mutilated in the crossfire. Shaken by what he saw, he passed sleepless nights writing letters to friends and family.
link
Coppola Blog

great episode

2010-08-24T21:18:00.000-06:00

Ep. 17: Inside the Episode

2010-08-24T21:11:00.002-06:00

The Journal Keeper- A Memoir

By Phyllis Theroux

one of my favorite excerts from the book

An author was asking people what they thought was there purpose…
He asked the question of an Orthodox priest in Greece after his sermon.
The priest said, “I am glad you asked. For me the answer is found in an experience I had as a young shepherd. One of my sheep had gotten lost, and I searched all over until I had came to a cave. I couldn’t see into it but I had a bit of metal and I angled it to reflect the sun and the rays lit up the interior, where I saw the lamb in back of the cave. Since then I have thought this is what I want to do – shine light into other people’s lives.”

“I loved this singularly honest and graceful book. The Journal Keeper reminds us that there is no such thing as an ordinary moment, and certainly no such thing as an ordinary life.” —Elizabeth Gilbert, best-selling author of Eat, Pray, Love

light reading

2010-07-04T07:08:00.003-06:00

Finished reading ...

The Butcher and the Vegetarian by Tara Weaver

Book website

Well done and interesting...

Happy 4th of July!

2010-07-04T07:06:00.001-06:00

Declaration of Independence!
Happy 4th of July.

just stating the obvious....

2010-06-13T07:31:00.001-06:00

but important for the world to understand...

GLOBAL: Healthy women mean healthier nations

WASHINGTON, 13 June 2010 (IRIN) - Progress in reducing maternal mortality and morbidity is still "tragically slow". Now, the United Nations has unveiled a global initiative based on government, civil society and private sector cooperation that could save the lives of up to one million women during pregnancy and childbirth. Progress in reducing maternal mortality and morbidity is still "tragically slow". Now, the United Nations has unveiled a global initiative based on government, civil society and private sector cooperation that could save the lives of up to one million women during pregnancy and childbirth. click to read the rest of it

join me - Race for Congo Women

2010-06-13T07:22:00.002-06:00

Run for Congo Information

Denver, CO 5K - Join us June 27, 2010!

Women for Women International supports women in war and post-war regions—like our sisters in the Democratic Republic of the Congo— with financial assistance, job skills training, rights awareness education, trauma counseling, and small business assistance so they can rebuild their lives.

of note

2010-06-13T07:08:00.002-06:00

blog on COIN and other things of special interest.
Small War Journal Blog

Love this, very interesting. I have watched the You tube clip three times thus far
video link - General McChystal

added playlist to the bottom

2010-05-14T15:45:00.001-06:00

Warrior Games in Colorado Springs

2010-05-12T20:16:00.002-06:00

Pictures from the Wounded Warrior Games in Colorado Springs at the Olympic Training Center.

What an honor to watch the game.
Support the Wounded Warrior Project or the USO!

2010-05-11T05:18:00.000-06:00

Nomination of a Supreme Court Judge that has never been a judge is like nominating a lawyer to Secretary of State that has never practiced public diplomacy. I am just thinking out loud today.

WSJ Blog on the Supreme Court Justice Nomination
The president went to Harvard, and barely defeated a primary opponent who went to Yale. His predecessor went to Yale and Harvard, and defeated opponents who went to Yale and Harvard, and Harvard, respectively. The previous two presidents also went to Yale, with Bush I defeating another Harvard grad for the presidency. And once Elena Kagan gets confirmed, every Supreme Court Justice will have attended Harvard or Yale law schools. I know that Harvard and Yale attract a disproportionate percentage of America’s talented youth, but still, isn’t this a bit much? Are there no similarly talented individuals who attended other Ivy League schools, other private universities or (gasp!) even state law schools?

Happy Mother's Day.

2010-05-09T07:29:00.002-06:00

I am home for Mother's Day which is strange. This house has so much of my mother still left in it - it is a safe place! When I see her writing or something that she probably touch last, it just helps.
I visited both cemetaries yesterday. I had the same horrible incident happen to me again... I could not find my Dad's grave. After 10 minutes of walking in the same section I thought it was in, I went to the office to ask for assistance. I was real close, just not close enough. It made my heart to ask, but I could not find it. I was sad because the grave stones were dirty and there were no flowers. I know it is early in spring. But we have to teach the next generation to keep the graves up! Admittedly I had bought cheap flowers made from China but at least there is some color of rememberance now.
The weather was not great but the sun tried to come out but did not do a very good job of actually warming anything. They are predicting more the same for today.
I am meeting my brother and his family at church and then we are off to Toledo for eating/shopping. My niece is hilarious. Well mannered polite and pretty funny.

My vacation ends on Tuesday afternoon and I will find my new routines again.
We have showers, graduations and weddings coming up and then in the fall I want to travel again. I cannot believe Breanne is graduation and more shockingly Kara is getting married. For a thousands reason I want her to wait, but she is ready.

I need to register for my next class and begin to sort and clean! I am actually looking forward to decluttering and getting rid of extra stuff we have been walking around for years. I just need to decide the things I really want to collect. The books, winnie the pooh, black bears, GI Joe, crystal, longaberger, polish pottery and Princess House is no longer practical. I really like the idea of collecting only two dollars bills and a few nice pieces of collectibles. I honestly did not by any collectibles on the trip to Germany. Don't get me wrong the Polish Pottery was gorgeous just not practical. :) Chelsea on the other hand is begin to collect on her own! You cannot go wrong with Le Cruset!

I picked up stuff for the food bank again. The economy here is depressed for sure. But I guess not so bad them for to put up a new Walmart. But so many of the store fronts are closed and many people on unemployment. I am grateful for everything I have.

vacation reading

2010-05-03T00:44:00.002-06:00

I have time to read which for me is always a good vacation.
Chelsea and I are both reading the Chelsea Handler books. They are pretty funny. The laugh out loud funny, She has a way with writing her stories and she has a lot of stories.

The Victoria’s Secret Catalog Never Stops Coming and Other Lessons I Learned From Breast Cancer - (Scribner, 2001) - By Jennie Nash

author's website Kate Braestrup
Marriage and Other Acts of Charity. She is a game warden chaplain in Maine. Very thoughtful book

update

2010-04-26T02:51:00.002-06:00

good weekend
We ate, walked, talked and explored.
Friday Night - Thai Food in Landstuhl. good.
Saturday - Day trip to Dachau. it was a long bus ride. But definitely something I need to see.
Sunday - French- German hike. very good.

I have visited the Fisher House twice so far since I have been here.
I have a link to the organization on the right since I started my blog. This is an amazing organization. Go check it out. They have two houses here on LRMC. We dropped off flowers the first day and cookies today. I chatted for a few minutes and they suggested that I bring maybe grapes and bananas. All of the snacks go by quick! That is definitely doable.

wow

2010-04-22T13:17:00.002-06:00

I just finished reading Jim Beaver's book Life's That Way. His website
First of all, this book will rip your heart in pieces.
It is a book that compiles all of the emails he sent to friends and family when he found out his wife was diagnosed with Stage 4 Lung Cancer.
I had not heard of him or his wife prior to picking up this book. So, the star factor did not come into play. I just read every single word as if I was part of the group he was emailing. The emails are so raw it is unbelievable.

in Germany

2010-04-18T15:45:00.002-06:00

Thank goodness I made it here before the smoldering ashes of the volcano closed down countless airports. But I made it here two days prior. It is so good to see her. Just to hang out and view life as she sees it now. We had a good 1st weekend. There is plenty to take in.
I finished two very good books.
The first one is a memoir written by Ellen Greene. Absolutely fabulous. I recommend it to anyone who wants an insightful look at love and the trials that life will take you through. Remember the Sweet Things.

The second book was very inspirational. I finished the last few chapters on the train to Trier. I shed a tear or two, but it also motivated me in a way like no other. The Unforgiving Moment by Craig M. Mullaney.

It's the small things

2010-04-09T19:57:00.002-06:00

just the small things...
Elliot's tiny hands.
Abby's little voice.
Michael's shy voice and sweet looks.
The neighborhood cat that now eats on my moms porch. (she would freak out).
kind thoughts.
small words.
tulips, green grass

Airport reading

2010-04-09T07:34:00.002-06:00

Yesterday was a travel day.

My flight from Colorado Springs was oversold so I took the voucher to take a later flight,

I figure I might as well take what I can since they just charged me $25 to check my bag.

I finished reading Falling Apart in one Piece by Stacy Morrison link and Lunch in Paris by Elizabeth Bard blog for Elizabeth Bard.

Both easy reads and enjoyable. Stacy Morrison writes an amazing memoir of her journey through seperation and eventual divorce and the drama that follows.
Elizabeth tells her amazing memoir of her life in Paris, marrying a frenchman and the adventures.
Both books focus on the relationships - the strength, the weak and the determination to continue.

we made it

2010-04-05T20:32:00.002-06:00

The Battalion is home.
Welcome Ceremony is complete.
Now I am just working on taking care of things.
Yoga, bills, junk mail, cleaning, packing, sorting, eating...
The weather is enjoyable.
I had an awesome massage today at Matteo's Day Salon.
It is good to catch up with family and friends.
I took my nephew to see "How to Train a Dragon". He liked but noted that Batman flies better.
I watched the Last Song. Oh my that is a tear jerker. It is good but pretty raw on the emotions.

inching closer...

2010-03-30T10:17:00.003-06:00

Literally, inching closer.
Demob almost complete.
Waiting on Transportation.
The good news is that the weather is getting better in Colorado. :)
Plans for Friday:
Hot Yoga
eating
hanging out
blueberries and mineral water

Looking forward to Easter - church, kiddos, cooking, eating

A book to pass the time....

2010-03-29T09:41:00.003-06:00

I found this book in the free book room. It helped pass the time on the flight and waiting for demob.

Donated care of the organization

Operation Paperback

They put a white label over the books they donate and I have seen them all over Iraq. These books reach soldiers. Over the last two weeks we have been waiting hours and hours. So, extra books are always helpful.

Synopsis from the publisher

In this compelling, heartfelt novel from the bestselling author of Tuscan Holiday and The Friends We Keep, a family reunited for the holidays explores the price of secrets, the power of regret, and the choices that can change everything…
The Rowans’ rambling Maine farmhouse is just big enough to contain the family members gathered there in the week before Christmas. Becca Rowan has driven north from Boston with one thought in mind—reclaiming the daughter she gave up when she was a frightened teenager. Raised by Becca’s older brother and his wife, Rain Rowan, now sixteen, has no idea she was adopted. And though Becca agreed not to reveal the truth until Rain turned twenty-one, lately that promise, along with all her career success, counts for little in the face of her loneliness and longing.
But while Becca anticipates shock at her announcement, she’s unprepared for the depth of her family’s reactions. Her brother is angry and fearful of losing the daughter he adores; her sister Olivia, oblivious to her crumbling marriage, reveals long-buried resentments, while Becca’s parents are torn between concern and guilt. And as the Rowans’ neighbor, Alex, draws her deeper into an unexpected friendship, Becca begins to challenge her own preconceptions about family, about love, and about the courage needed to live with—and sometimes change—the decisions we make…

finished more...

2010-03-24T23:33:00.002-06:00

Yestersay I picked up this book in the free library room, since my stay here has been longer than expected. It was a quick read. A good airport/wating book. Looking for to Europe soon..

Italian for Beginners
By Kristin Harmel

Thirty-four-year-old Manhattan accountant Cat Connelly has always lived life on the safe side. But after her little sister gets married, Cat wonders if she has condemned herself to a life of boredom by playing by the rules. She decides to take a chance for once, accepting an invitation to spend a month with an old flame in Italy. But her reunion with the slick and gorgeous Francesco is short-lived, and she finds herself suddenly alone in Rome. Now, she must see if she has the courage to live outside the lines for the first time - and to face a past she never understood.

finished reading

2010-03-23T10:54:00.002-06:00

Precious (Push Movie Tie-in Edition)
Sapphire's Story: How 'Push' Became 'Precious'

Evidently this movie turned a lot of heads and the book was a huge hit.
The story behind it is very sad, but to be honest I probably will not see the movie.

I respect the writing.

The story is poignant and brutal.

2010-03-23T10:48:00.001-06:00

strawberries
figs
parsnips
lettuce
beets
yogurt
blueberries
gooseberries
turkey hot dogs
vernors
baklava

just finished reading

2010-03-22T09:04:00.003-06:00

Between Here and April
By Deborah Copaken Kogan

about Between Here and April

When a deep-seated memory suddenly surfaces, Elizabeth Burns becomes obsessed with the long-ago disappearance of her childhood friend April Cassidy. Driven to investigate, Elizabeth discovers a thirty-five-year-old newspaper article revealing the details that had been hidden from her as a child—shocking revelations about April's mother, Adele.

Elizabeth, now herself a mother, seeks out anyone who might help piece together the final months, days, and hours of this troubled woman's life, but the answers yield only more questions. And those questions lead back to Elizabeth's own life: her own compromised marriage, her increasing self-doubt and dissatisfaction, and finally, a fearsome reckoning with what it means to be a wife and mother.

awaiting

2010-03-22T08:57:00.002-06:00

awaiting...

waiting...

a waiting...

waiting for transportation...