It's always surprising to me the random events that change my perspective on life. It never fails that every time I think I have things figured out, something always happens or changes. It's an awesome learning experience, but the process of figuring out what the lesson is isn't always quick, and it isn't always easy. At the very least I realize that nothing in my life is completely solid, no decision, philosophy, feeling...everything is and will always be constantly changing, exceptions to the rule will always have to be made, and matters of the heart are ever evolving. Speaking in absolutes doesn't seem to serve me well because most of the time, at some point, I change my mind. I guess some people would call me indecisive for this, or unable to stick to my convictions. I like to think this makes me flexible, and am coming to accept that it isn't a character flaw. Situations arise, circumstances change, and all I can ever expect myself to do is deal with what I have at the time in the best way that I can. Maybe there is no absolute resolution to certain things. Maybe taking what you can get when you can get it isn't being "weak", maybe it is just coming to realize that when it comes to other people in a constant state of change, as we all are, sometimes expectations only cause disappointment. Sometimes I think I get caught up dissecting and over analyzing situations and outcomes in order to find some resolution when at the end of the day, it simply is what it is.

The "Shack"

Just wanted to post a picture from the lake trip. We had a great time with David & Danielle. It was really nice to spend some quality time with them, and especially nice for me to get to know Danielle a little better. As you can see, we took out a pontoon one of the days we were there. The weather was nice, but it did get rainy, dark and really windy for about 20 minutes when we were out on the boat, and the waves in that lake were UNREAL. 3-4 foot swells were really rocking the boat and at one point the entire front of the boat got slammed on the water so hard it went under for a few seconds. Kind of scary!!

TGIF!

Busy Friday leading into a busy weekend. I'm house/dog sitting for my boss this weekend in Roscoe, and will also be trying to get ready to leave next week. Dr.'s appt. on Monday, and I wanted to get a massage because my back has been hurting, but I don't think I am going to have time for that. Need to clean my house, and most definitely need to do laundry. I wanted to pull some weeds too, but again..not sure that's going to happen!!
I am really enjoying my bike this summer. Brian and I did 10 miles on the trails Wednesday, and it felt great. It's such a nice way to enjoy the outdoors. I think Brian really likes it too. Thanks Sue! :)
I have finally undertaken the task of redecorating the dining/living room, and am looking forward to making some furniture purchases. It's only been 5 years in the making! I'm sure when I get done it will be about time to move again. :)

Well, I better get back to the grind. More soon.

PS: What's up with the weather? brrr! (60 degrees in mid July?)

Well, my camera broke...

so I don't have any pictures from this weekend. And of course, yesterday it just magically starts working again. GRRR! Nice timing. Anyway, we had a great day w/David, Danielle and Chloe. She is so much bigger, and I swear she looks like a different baby. She SMILES now, which just makes me fall in love with her even more (didn't know that was possible!).
I always kind of thought that kids were not for me. You know...you go out to eat and there's a screaming kid at the table next to you. Or, you're on a plane stuck next to the baby that won't stop crying for 4 hours. Or, my personal favorite, the kid in the grocery store that has a complete meltdown because they can't get what they want. I never ever thought I would have the patience to deal with that. And in my opinion, that's the easy stuff! What in the world would I do with a some sassy rebellious teenager? I mean, there should be a guide or a manual or something for raising kids. And this is all assuming the BEST. The worst case scenarios are just terrifing.
Anyway, my point was going to be that it kind of changes when your brothers/sisters start having kids. At least it has for me. It's different when you love them so much that you'd do anything for them. Chloe's not even my kid, and I can't think of anything I wouldn't do for her. So I guess I get it. Maybe people aren't "stuck" with kids.
Maybe I could have one.
When I'm 50 or something.
:)

I missed my blog!!

Over the last month I realized I miss writing in my blog. Sure, it's a public forum, and some of the stuff that I write about is personal. BUT it is my blog, and if you don't like it you can always just not read it. :)

On another note...................................
July is shaping up to be an awesome month!
We spent the 4th w/Brian's family and had a great time....ate lots of good food, and set off some fireworks. It's so nice when we can get together with our families. I sort of didn't appreciate that before, but now it's just fun, which is a nice place to be at. It is crazy to think how different we are, and how different our relationship is from when we started out 5 years ago. The wonderful thing is that it's all been learning and positive, and growing together...becoming better people. I don't think I could ask for anything more!

This weekend David and Danielle are coming for a visit with little Chloe, and I can not express how excited I am to see her!!! I'm sure she has grown so much and I probably won't even recognize her. I wish we lived closer to each other, but I'll take what I can get for now. :) Expect lots of pictures on Monday!

Next weekend we will be getting ready for our trip to the "Shack" in Mauston, WI. David and Danielle are coming with us...SO EXCITING!...and it's going to be 4 days of being out on the water and relaxing by the lake. My boss was kind enough to extend the offer of the use of his lake house to us this summer, and we couldn't pass it up!
So, lots is happening...summer is here...life is good!