tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73137365632759877852024-03-06T00:23:55.821-08:00From the Mouth of a ProphetAmyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05660332698520474950noreply@blogger.comBlogger66125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7313736563275987785.post-83285487206727756492019-07-26T18:35:00.002-07:002019-07-26T18:35:56.143-07:00Thoughts on Joshua Harris
<p>As you may have heard, Christian author and former pastor Joshua Harris recently announced that he is in a place in his life where he does not consider himself a Christian. He and his wife are also in the process of getting a divorce and living apart from each other.</p>
<p>I don't want to get into the weeds here with all of it, but I do want to talk about my own experience with the so-called "purity culture" that I grew up in during the 90s and early 2000s.</p>
<p>It was meant to steer us away from sexual sin and promiscuity, which I completely understand, but looking back, I realize the teachings of Harris and the Ludy's was, frankly, legalistic and unattainable for so many young people.</p>
<p>From what I understand, Harris grew up in a very strict Christian home. His father was a big name in the homeschooling community and his views and book, I Kissed Dating Goodbye, naturally flowed out of his experiences.</p>
<p>I know about this culture because I grew up close to it. My parents weren't quite as strict as Harris' probably were, but they did what they did to protect me. I don't want to blame anyone here, but I do want to say that there were major holes in what I was taught and not taught regarding relationships and sexuality.</p>
<p>First of all, I look back now and think "Geez. That is unrealistic" when I think of making lists of qualities I wanted my future husband to have during Sunday school. Look, it's not bad to have a few things you want in a man, but a teenage girl who's read a few Christian fiction novels (the bad ones, not the good ones) and watched too many romantic movies is NOT going to have a realistic view of a partner. She's obviously going to want a Prince Charming from a fairytale.</p>
<p>Sadly, the world is full of imperfect people, myself included, who are just trying to get through life.</p>
<p>Here's what I want to point out regarding this point: It is EXTREMELY unfair to expect a man to be something you have imagined in your mind as the perfect mate.</p>
<p>He can never, ever live up to that standard, and you should check your pride and lay that idol down, NOW.</p>
<p>It is useless to serve something that doesn't exist and pine for someone who isn't real. Yes, you may fall in love one day, but I guarantee you it will not be with a perfect man.</p>
<p>Here's where I quote Austen (you knew it was coming, okay?). At least I think this is from Austen...</p>
<p>A great example is when Emma realizes she loves Mr. Knightley and they pledge their love to one another: "Perhaps it is our imperfections that make us perfect for one another."</p>
<p>Okay, now that's done, let's move on.</p>
<p>Through all the purity teaching years, no one ever talked to me about the single life. It was as if the church culture I was in didn't realize it existed, and if they did, the singles we knew were viewed as "odd." No one ever told me "If marriage happens" or "God may have set you apart for singleness."</p>
<p>Why didn't they mention this? It seems that the people who came up with these teachings were so focused on protecting the young ones from sexual sin that they did not think that some of us might find ourselves being single later in life. They pushed the marriage thing so hard and for so long that we all came to believe we'd get married someday.</p>
<p>That's a total set up for failure, in my opinion. If marriage is your greatest goal, you need to get out and live a little. Experience the world so that IF you ever do meet that special someone, you'll have some amazing experiences and life lessons to bring to the table.</p>
<p>Don't presume upon God when it comes to a mate, because you do not know His mind or what he has for you.</p>
<p>I preach this stuff all the time about how singles can live fulfilling lives no matter where they are. Why? Because we're FREE. And doesn't everybody like to be free?</p>
<p>I know I do.</p>
<p>Marriage is a sweet thing, something many of us want, and if someone ever comes along who loves me for me and not because they want to check a box, then we'll talk. Other than that, my single life is fulfilling and I am free to work and travel when I want and where I want.</p>
<p>I am free to fulfill my passions and be of service to my King and it is pretty awesome.</p>
<p>As to Harris falling away from his faith, if he is truly a Christian, he is sealed in Christ. My brother Joshua can't escape God's love for him, no matter how many books he writes or how much he is hurting emotionally.</p>
<p>I pray that he experiences Jesus in a new way and that the burden of the legalism, yes, LEGALISM he's been living under is burned away by the power of God's love.</p>
<p>Jesus is bigger than all the years Joshua has been in the dark. I hope he will keep walking forward and allow Jesus to speak to him and pull him into the light.</p>
<p>I also think it's GREAT that he is working as a soloprenuer in the marketing field. I can't stress enough how healthy it is for Christians to work in a secular field to grow their faith and increase their knowledge of God, because that happens when you aren't surrounded by Christians all the time. The community of believers becomes something even sweeter when we aren't taking it for granted.</p>
<p>Anyway. I hope my thoughts on this helped somebody out there.</p>
Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05660332698520474950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7313736563275987785.post-27498213489944585252019-05-28T11:16:00.000-07:002019-05-28T11:32:54.417-07:00Thoughts on the Alabama Abortion Ban
<p>In the wake of the Alabama Abortion Ban, I've been reading.</p>
<p>Shocker, I know.</p>
<p>More specifically, I've been reading a book titled "Natural Rights and the Right to Choose" that touches on natural law, progressivism, when a man becomes a human being, etc. It has been fascinating to read and study. I feel like I am gaining a greater grasp on the progressive side of things, and frankly it is terrifying.</p>
<p>According to the author, Hadley Arkes, progressives and the university elites teach moral relativism in everything because they have nothing new to show for all of their research. They don't teach liberal arts or the classics because they no longer believe in absolute truth, of which the classics are full. Hadley says they come into the university classroom and pontificate all over their students ideas that form no new arguments. They don't have anything new to say and it causes said arguments to go round and round in circles, essentially coming right back to where we don't want to be.</p>
<p>The place we don't want to be is essentially what the Nazis believed; that a human being is only a human being if they deemed it so. This way of thinking comes from the German philosophers like Nietzsche who believed in Nihilism: everything is nothing, so what's the point?</p>
<p>It is such a sad and deadly way to live your life, and eventually drove Nietzsche to madness.</p>
<p>The university elite keep telling these lies and in the meantime, demean and put effort into erasing our founding documents because they don't believe "all men are created equal." They believe our founding documents should be changed to fit the times, and that my friends, is very dangerous. It's the same thing with those who want to change the Bible. It gets us nowhere and we become what we said we hate: barbarians who only use people and don't believe they have human rights.</p>
<p>Pro-abortion advocates have fallen for these lies in the name of "progress," meaning they believe that a human is only a human when they deem it is a human. They refuse the truth that says a life is a life at conception. If children can be thrown away, then what else can be thrown away? We've seen it in Iceland where they say "We've eradicated Down Syndrome!" But in reality, they are only aborting babies in the womb who have it. That is not science. That is murder in the eugenics sense.</p>
<p>It is really hard for me not to say anything about this subject because it is a human rights issue. If we continue to pat ourselves on the back when our nations implement assisted suicide, abortion on demand and without apology, and a myriad other horrors, where are we headed? Human life is precious. Human life, from conception to the grave, is PRECIOUS. We must not allow ourselves to continue believing the lies of the university elites who know nothing new and who refuse to use scientific fact as a means to justify their claims.</p>
<p>Their arguments are wrong and only self-serving. We have to stop preaching this "women need abortion!" lie.</p>
<p>They don't, and neither does our society.</p>
<p>Abortion is only a ruse for murder of convenience. Nothing more. We need to love these mothers to the truth and continue valuing life as it begins in the womb. And a big part of this is telling women to value themselves enough not to have sex until they are in a committed relationship that can support a child. Sex is the pipeline for life, and it must be treated as such.</p>Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05660332698520474950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7313736563275987785.post-19334532034386124442019-03-31T20:55:00.001-07:002019-03-31T21:01:42.196-07:00Amy Falls in Love with the Deep South<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNo2zMeLD3D-ZjrgCrYuaFtJKHoV5feOCtqLfzUlpNcVzEcusgpKe9xf2jeyiNvZWgEWDQ5tHg5Iia9tE2u3y8BGf6YSlWKAqVhF-S3r1gy7fPZ9pt0bbQdEUsDtrmXK3rekSPPH4kv-4s/s1600/natchez.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNo2zMeLD3D-ZjrgCrYuaFtJKHoV5feOCtqLfzUlpNcVzEcusgpKe9xf2jeyiNvZWgEWDQ5tHg5Iia9tE2u3y8BGf6YSlWKAqVhF-S3r1gy7fPZ9pt0bbQdEUsDtrmXK3rekSPPH4kv-4s/s320/natchez.jpg" width="240" height="320" data-original-width="1200" data-original-height="1600" /></a></div>
<p>Caroline flew in on March 22nd and we've been having a time together ever since.</p>
<p>On Wednesday, we drove to Natchez, Mississippi to experience the Natchez Spring Pilgrimage Tour. In short, it was everything I never knew I wanted in a trip to the Deep South.</p>
<p>We stayed at the GardenSong B&B on Washington Street which is located in the heart of Natchez. The yellow house was built in 1836 and has a southern front porch with rocking chairs to sit in while you wave "hey y'all" to passersby. We climbed the creaky stairs up to the third floor where our room was located. The bedroom is tucked away at the very top and has its own bathroom (with 1940s green fixtures) with frog wallpaper.</p>
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<p>We had breakfast every morning at 8:30 in the dining room with the other guests and very much enjoyed getting to know them. We all swapped stories of the places we'd traveled in recent years and the antebellum homes in Natchez we toured the day before or were planning on touring.</p>
<p>I absolutely loved getting to know the people in the house with us because there is a sort of kinship among travelers that I don't think you can find anywhere else. The Deep South is such a controversial (to outsiders) area because of its history, but our friends at the bed and breakfast agreed that history is important and places like Natchez that keep their history alive are truly special. Tearing it all down would significantly hurt the surrounding communities and from what I experienced, those living there, black and white don't see it like most outsiders do.</p>
<p>It is their home and we should respect it as such and not project our feelings about something onto them because we just don't understand.</p>
<p>Our chef Kevin told us that Clark Gable stayed in the house for three nights many years ago because the son of the man who owned the home was friends with the editor of Variety Magazine at the time, so that is the connection. Kevin said the family mentioned their wood burning stove to Gable and he bought them a gas one as a present. Interesting, huh?</p>
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<p>The entryway and staircase walls are wallpapered with scenes of the Great Wall of China which I found fascinating. Apparently, Mrs. Abbott told her husband that the only way she would let him buy the house was if he allowed her to have Chinese influenced wallpaper (Chinese decor was very expensive back then because items had to be imported from overseas). What an interesting story!</p>
On our last night, Caroline and I sat on the porch and enjoyed the pitter patter of the Southern rain on the roof. It was cool the entire time we were there, but I know it gets very hot and muggy once the summer moves in.</p>
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<p>The air in the Deep South has a magical feel to it; warm and mysterious. It is one of those places whose aura stays with you even after you've left. Even though I went to Mississippi as a child, this time was different. As an adult woman, I think I am more able to comprehend the depth of their historical background and he mystery surrounding their beliefs and way of life. A dark Gothic romance seems to drip from the Spanish Moss that hangs from the trees.</p>
<p>I was and still am completely captivated. Needless to say, I am already planning a return pilgrimage next year to smell the hydrangea bushes and drink in the brightness of the rhododendron flowers that flood the streets...</p> Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05660332698520474950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7313736563275987785.post-36311326007797829462019-01-01T18:29:00.002-08:002019-01-01T18:32:58.263-08:00Creating Family as a Single<p>In Danylak's book, he emphasizes the fact that singles should protect their freedom because then they are able to be in closer relationship first with the Lord, and second with their church family.</p>
<p>As a single, I will admit there have been times when I felt out of place at church functions or other things because I was the only one who had no significant other. It could be awkward to be around people who were holding hands or talking about their engagements, etc. But in reality, wasn't I the one who was doing that to herself? Well, it was a little bit of that and a little bit of the pushy "get married or you're going to be an old maid" attitude.</p>
<p>Both attitudes are wrong. The older I get, the more I enjoy my freedom as a big ol' one. I make my own decisions, I am undistracted, and I go where I want to go. I've been to some amazing places by myself and with my family and friends, and I enjoy the things I want to enjoy without having to think "does my significant other enjoy this too?"</p>
<p>It might sound selfish, but I really don't think it is. It's just the way things are.</p>
<p>I do find it encouraging that Danylak says Jesus was closer to his followers than he was to his own kin. Danylak points out that in Matthew 3, Jesus is told by his followers that his family is outside the house looking for him. He replies "Here are my mother and my brothers! For whoever does the will of God, he is my brother and sister and mother." What an amazing way to say that in our mutual trust and belief in Jesus, we are all family!</p>
<p>I recently read (twice) Ed Shaw's book, Same-Sex Attraction and the Church. My friend and I read it together and discovered some priceless nuggets of wisdom in its pages, things we'd never been taught or were unable to conclude on our own. The premise of the book is based on Shaw's experience as a same-sex attracted Christian and how he deals with and pastors his flock in this vein. His book taught me that yes, blood family is important, but it is not everything. Since Shaw has never married, he has created a family out of the Christians around him who love him so very deeply.</p>
<p>Until I read his book, I did not understand the importance of cultivating close relationships with my fellow Christians. I sometimes worry about being alone when I am older, after my parents are gone, but I find such a solid hope in the fact that my brothers and sisters in Christ (and even my non-Christian friends) love me enough to be there for me. It is up to me to explain this to them and to continue building tender friendships that will last for years to come.</p>
<p>Building these sorts of relationships can be scary, I will admit. If you've been hurt by people in the past (who hasn't?), you may hesitate at getting too close. But after I prayed about it and sought God on what to do, he has been faithful to show me and reveal who my true friends are. I've talked to them about what I learned and we all agree, we are a family who help one another because of the love we share in Jesus.</p>
<p>Isn't it interesting how "early church" this looks? That is another reason why I love it so much. I want to be close and connected to how the early church fathers and families did things. I want to know I am doing what Jesus commands, even in the modern world in which I live. It really is special.</p>
<p>I also thought of something else the other day. Why do we not celebrate the accomplishments of our single friends? We celebrate children's birthdays, graduations, etc but not when our single friends get a promotion or move into a new house or apartment. If there's any excuse to have more parties, it's this. In essence, I just think it would mean so much to highlight the accomplishments of those who are unmarried, whether divorced, waiting for marriage, or happy in their singleness. We shouldn't forget about them because they are our family, and they are loved.</p>
Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05660332698520474950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7313736563275987785.post-46238275376246789342018-11-23T19:05:00.000-08:002018-11-23T19:26:32.295-08:00At the Edge of My World
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<p>I said I didn't want to write more but I wasn't being truthful. I'm just tired but can't seem to stop thinking.</p>
<p>Cape Flattery was one of the things I most wanted to see on our tour of the Pacific coast. I saw pictures of it online and after doing some research, found out what and where it was.</p>
<p>When it comes to travel, I like a good challenge. I like to see things not many others have and to experience epic beauty because it builds me up inside somehow. I want to appreciate God's beauty and see him in what I see with my own eyes. There really is something special about taking a long journey and finally reaching your destination. Once you step out of the trees and onto the cape, you realize how far you have come and are in awe of the scenery. The waves crashing, the blue green water, the fierce wind and rain... it all becomes a force that inspires and terrifies you at the same time.</p>
<p>Sometimes I truly have no words to speak of what I have seen and experienced. To physically be in the presence of such powerful beauty makes one feel as if you are but a pebble in a tumultuous ocean, being rocked back and forth and smashed against every surface imaginable.</p>
<p>Dad and I stood at the highest point and looked out at Tatoosh Island, solitary and battered by centuries of storms. I can't tell you how I felt as I stood there with the rain dripping down my face and the wind whipping my hair all over the place.</p>
<p>Moments like these are when you are no longer yourself. You've come exhausted, wet, and emotional to the precipice of a world where you yourself are an alien among the elements. It is hard to feel as if you fit into that sphere, hard to know who you are because you feel so insignificant compared to the massive sea caves, the booming sounds the waves make, and the tall elegant lighthouse as it looks out to sea.</p>
<p>What I am trying to say is moments and experiences like the one I had at Cape Flattery are character building. It takes guts to make a promise to yourself that you will journey to this remote place, hike to the end of your familiar world, and look out at a vast ocean that could take your life in one second should you fall from the cliff where you stand.</p>
<p>Maybe I delve into my emotions and feelings too much when it comes to these things. But it's not just my emotions that rage when my feet take me to places I've never been; my spiritual health is also renewed. As the years go by, part of my well-being depends on travel and experiencing new things. It has become one of the deepest and most important parts of who I am as a person.</p>
<p>The people who lived before me also become part of who I am and how I think. Now, I have a better appreciation for the Corps of Discovery and the absolute agony they went through to accomplish Jefferson's dream. I have been studying about the writers and thinkers of the Enlightenment and why their contribution to our nation is important to who we are.</p>
<p>Captain James Cook who named the cape was also an incredible human being. He was a tough seaman and his efforts to chart unknown continents later expanded the British Empire. Talk about adventure!</p>
<p>All of these men and women were real people and deserve to be considered not only for what they accomplished, but for being human.</p>
</p>There is so much to learn and be and see. I know it is impossible for me to do everything, but I will do my best to keep these promises to myself and continue to appreciate the places and the people who came before me.</p> Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05660332698520474950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7313736563275987785.post-76836962040735239452018-11-23T18:50:00.001-08:002018-11-23T18:50:45.926-08:00The Most Northwesterly Point of the Contiguous United States: Cape Flattery
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSR_EjL95YKF3SBXyMuar1TKay6SshxgCvds98DUZgM1GOvopsCzMat3bFjXJU9enz5Im0cPHP2LNSgDIMk8unrGs8QT4qj8qCNvmFYVVbvVD4wneyZ28i6ax6MLDli_PmQpsvmjQ4Rz_w/s1600/Cape+Flattery+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSR_EjL95YKF3SBXyMuar1TKay6SshxgCvds98DUZgM1GOvopsCzMat3bFjXJU9enz5Im0cPHP2LNSgDIMk8unrGs8QT4qj8qCNvmFYVVbvVD4wneyZ28i6ax6MLDli_PmQpsvmjQ4Rz_w/s320/Cape+Flattery+1.jpg" width="320" height="320" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1600" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggORH6nIgmMzioW3guZSepaXSV0ibCUElBSqGsnE6f2uM5H6GC4jiSesAtcy0F6Lk14FN9CccnVkidJLpNfxa3HqFSE83W1Yiofg3NRfzF0YhnXfCWDiIjPaaesEvUAcTTww0j33Gxe1bJ/s1600/Tatoosh+Island.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggORH6nIgmMzioW3guZSepaXSV0ibCUElBSqGsnE6f2uM5H6GC4jiSesAtcy0F6Lk14FN9CccnVkidJLpNfxa3HqFSE83W1Yiofg3NRfzF0YhnXfCWDiIjPaaesEvUAcTTww0j33Gxe1bJ/s320/Tatoosh+Island.jpg" width="320" height="320" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1600" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvFnDYhGXXlV8a8Seku2qYP_JeH6pYqvcj5GT1TJde85nkQl3eXp4lisN2uDTgHzaU5jbLKXMjHFuo3WIT5z_oFs9XiQoe9FPflKzcjbKIO6uLrDfsapKKCMLEC_Z8NKHn0XXAU9CBIje1/s1600/Cape+Flattery+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvFnDYhGXXlV8a8Seku2qYP_JeH6pYqvcj5GT1TJde85nkQl3eXp4lisN2uDTgHzaU5jbLKXMjHFuo3WIT5z_oFs9XiQoe9FPflKzcjbKIO6uLrDfsapKKCMLEC_Z8NKHn0XXAU9CBIje1/s320/Cape+Flattery+2.jpg" width="320" height="320" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1600" /></a></div>
<p>On Thanksgiving Day, Dad and I made the drive to Neah Bay where the Makah Indian reservation is located. Interestingly, the tribe still retain their rights to whale and hunt seals in the area. They have a large reservation that is far away from the rest of the population of Washington. However, that does not mean there is hardly anyone living in the bay area. They maintain a thriving community and have preserved their traditions well for future generations.</p>
<p>There is a museum on the reservation which houses the remains of a long house that was excavated in the 1970s. 500 years ago, a mudslide covered the houses, perfectly preserving them. Sadly, we did not get to see the houses or the artifacts inside but we did hike to Cape Flattery.</p>
<p>I will copy and paste the information on our visit from my Instagram account only because I am exhausted and don't want to rewrite it all.</p>
<p>The hike down to the point was fairly difficult but that was probably because it was raining and quite steep. The trail itself is partly made up if rocks, but the rest is a long narrow boardwalk with stairs. Each of them (and the rails) were slippery with rain and moss.
When we made it to the point, we stood in awe as the waves broke inside the sea caves, causing a sound like a low horn blast to echo from their caverns.</p>
<p>The water is a dark turquoise color (I have not put any filters on these photos) that is, again, other-worldly.
The caves are massive and the interpretive signs said they believe that a few hundred years from now, the stone will fall away due to the beating they endure from the sea.</p>
<p>Across from the point is Tatoosh Island, where Cape Flattery Lighthouse (built in 1857) still stands. The island was a seasonal village site for the Makah Indian tribe since... forever, and was an excellent place for fishing and whaling.</p>
<p>The Makah tribe are the only tribe in the United States who reserve their rights to continue whaling and hunting seal near the point.</p>
<p>The first European to sail to the area was Captain James Cook in 1778, and it was Cook who named it Cape Flattery because of the "flattering" coast that allowed ships to pass through.</p>
<p>Sadly, the lighthouse on Tatoosh Island is no longer in operation and has been vacant and neglected for many years. However, the Makah tribe understand the cultural and historical significance and refuse to allow the building to be torn down. Historical societies are now trying to get funding to repair and keep it in good condition for future generations to enjoy.</p>
<p>Dad and I were so happy we made it to the area and now have a better understanding of the tribal customs and way of life of the Makah people.</p> Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05660332698520474950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7313736563275987785.post-42825746573864933342018-11-21T18:28:00.000-08:002018-11-23T19:16:14.915-08:00Olympic National Park, Marymere Falls, and Lake Crescent Lodge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOqgceAG3WNkusAWuCXME-Hz6ZbtqxLogpegkx6X7ExSoIZT-LPa8daDsvka9ua-YrR1w2B00DFkgL01M-fzYqyXAC7YHu7Zjdf7eB3OsXbaeo7kUYF7YXC9mwgZ_hkxGa2AT17L5g0jPL/s1600/Crescent+Lake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOqgceAG3WNkusAWuCXME-Hz6ZbtqxLogpegkx6X7ExSoIZT-LPa8daDsvka9ua-YrR1w2B00DFkgL01M-fzYqyXAC7YHu7Zjdf7eB3OsXbaeo7kUYF7YXC9mwgZ_hkxGa2AT17L5g0jPL/s320/Crescent+Lake.jpg" width="320" height="320" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1600" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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<p>Even though there was rain in the forecast for today, Dad and I decided to make the drive to Olympic National Park. The rain here is different because it can move in quickly, then move out even faster so you never know what you are going to get. That is part of the reason I did not want to waste our day stuck inside. I remember how Colorado can be the same way when it comes to mountain storms.</p>
<p>We had a lovely breakfast at the Miller Tree Inn (or the Cullen House for all of the Twilight fans... more about Twilight later) and hit the road. It was only about a 45 minute drive to Crescent Lake and we were so happy that the rain sort of disappeared as we kept on driving.</p>
<p>Olympic National Park is massive, so you are going to see many different things as you drive through. Hurricane Ridge was pretty far away, near Port Angeles, so we just made a day of driving around the beautiful lake.</p>
<p>Dad's Aunt Alma had a theory of pressing on through the rain no matter what and we are so glad we took her advice.</p>
<p>The moment we burst through the trees and onto the road that winds around the large body of water was monumental. The forests cover the surrounding mountains that rise around the lake and the clouds looked like great swaths of cotton draped over the treetops. The water is a sort of blue/grey/green and is so clear, you can see straight to the bottom. I told Mom the entire area reminds me of the 1960s movie, The Parent Trap because the camp where the twin girls meet is in a setting much like this area.</p>
<p>We pulled off the road and took some pictures of the mist covered mountains and the massive lake. I hope my camera shots do it justice because it was breathtaking.</p>
<p>We then stopped at a Ranger station and hiked up to Marymere Falls, a GORGEOUS waterfall hidden among the mossy rain forest.</p>
<p>The trail leading into the wooded area was wide and well-kept. There was quite a bit of mud, but we didn't mind... we were going to see a waterfall!</p>
<p>I could hear the water the closer we got to the falls and got more excited with each step. As we rounded the bend, there was a lovely wooden bridge that was spread out over the fast-flowing creek... and more crystal clear water.</p>
<p>We crossed the wide bridge and were met with another wooden bridge, more crude in nature and only about as wide as a large log. I held on tight as I crossed it, then turned to see the lovely view of Marymere Falls.</p>
<p>Obviously, Flat Margaret had to take a picture, so I took care of that then stood back and admired the lovely scenery. The falls are very high and we did the rest of the hike up very steep, wet steps to the lookout point. I haven't seen many waterfalls in my lifetime, but this one really took the cake for me. It was like something out of Neverland...</p>
<p>Dad continued up the steps after we took some pictures and I followed him some of the way, but I became a little dizzy (heights, eek!) so stopped and started the hike back down to the creek area.</p>
<p>After making it back to the trail, we stood by the creek for a while and talked about how the fish like the deepest parts in the bend of the creek. Dad says they like it in there because bugs fall off the branches of the overhanging trees and there is more oxygen for them.</p>
<p>My Dad, he knows a lot of things.</p>
<p>After we left the falls, we drove down the road to Lake Crescent Lodge that has been there since 1910. It has lovely little cottages that overlook the water and the lodge itself is a beautiful, cream colored building with an enchanting porch area. I loved how they had wicker chairs and little tables set out for guests to eat breakfast and look out the paned windows to the lake. It definitely has a romantic vibe to it and the dock is very wide so you can walk out on it and admire the mountains and the clear water below.</p>
<p>If I was rich, I'd spent my entire summer there swimming and hiking. How great would that be?</p>
Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05660332698520474950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7313736563275987785.post-69679007521476726792018-11-21T17:53:00.000-08:002018-11-21T17:53:46.528-08:00Lake Quinault Lodge and The Hall of Mosses<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0P1HeLWrwdKrfEdcc3wpxe9CdEkEkZ9_GnGDf9oXVECNw6hZF3FGCIjW1jg4NyWtbQ98UqAj4LfZB-fUqw3GM_UNm72rQWhguLR9eLYyDxOJC4raeRq4tJ6M8GZxwkPnKWZhDFAXO9-kU/s1600/Hall+of+Mosses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0P1HeLWrwdKrfEdcc3wpxe9CdEkEkZ9_GnGDf9oXVECNw6hZF3FGCIjW1jg4NyWtbQ98UqAj4LfZB-fUqw3GM_UNm72rQWhguLR9eLYyDxOJC4raeRq4tJ6M8GZxwkPnKWZhDFAXO9-kU/s320/Hall+of+Mosses.jpg" width="320" height="320" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1600" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLPQxIlZ38Bu4TdvitPQ5kxhQ5Zn1OkfX_bugIPW-c4Q1hPuS6E5QEqvqumT1i2b9KB2ufzX3hbj6rUgHT_ALe9vnXRbjAaRPVThMKcfaGdgyYa89jRG4IsapbqpkBUHfeo4jWTBMoV2Wf/s1600/Lake+Quinault+Lodge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLPQxIlZ38Bu4TdvitPQ5kxhQ5Zn1OkfX_bugIPW-c4Q1hPuS6E5QEqvqumT1i2b9KB2ufzX3hbj6rUgHT_ALe9vnXRbjAaRPVThMKcfaGdgyYa89jRG4IsapbqpkBUHfeo4jWTBMoV2Wf/s320/Lake+Quinault+Lodge.jpg" width="320" height="320" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1600" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWMqX2FRI1xThFVQ9oHKKHJPDQZfSndSRgu5fRByUXUa2k9iIBB7eFjj_1LN8XyRKRgbHMLzcmZJeyKrGUIfyoAmR6_dhJdB5Ig6nivtxGqmIFJXXdxutyrSD9-3AWCC3N00_iTKVb1-Y0/s1600/Sasquatch+Hall+of+Mosses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWMqX2FRI1xThFVQ9oHKKHJPDQZfSndSRgu5fRByUXUa2k9iIBB7eFjj_1LN8XyRKRgbHMLzcmZJeyKrGUIfyoAmR6_dhJdB5Ig6nivtxGqmIFJXXdxutyrSD9-3AWCC3N00_iTKVb1-Y0/s320/Sasquatch+Hall+of+Mosses.jpg" width="320" height="320" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1600" /></a></div>
On Tuesday, Dad and I left Astoria, Oregon and drove across the big bridge that connects Oregon to Washington state. The Columbia River is massive and we both talked about how there was a time when we thought the Mississippi River was wide... no chance.</p>
<p>It was a lovely drive to Forks, and we enjoyed the beautiful scenery and forests. The trees are so tall that you feel walled in as you pass through them on the highway (Highway 101). Peering into the trees from the road showed me how deep the forests here truly are. One second you are standing in the light but the next you're covered in moist darkness after crossing through the line of trees.</p>
<p>This is definitely Sasquatch country and I am loving every minute of it. I do wonder if those who look for the legendary creature believe there is a family or just one or two. I guess we will never know.</p>
<p>Halfway to Forks, we turned off on a road that looked interesting, and boy were we surprised at what we found! Located on the shore of Lake Quinault is Lake Quinault Lodge, a beautiful building that was built in 1926 by Mr. Frank McNeil. It is a dark building with green accents and two boathouses with guest rooms. The restaurant inside is called The Roosevelt Restaurant because FDR ate lunch at the lodge in 1937 on a tour of the area which inspired its becoming a national park in 1938.</p>
<p>The inside of the lodge is beautiful with windows that overlook the lake and a large, cozy fireplace. We stopped in the gift shop and I was pleased to find casts of Bigfoot prints and other fun things. Dad really wants to take Mom there so I hope we are able to return someday soon.</p>
<p>We got back in the car and consulted our trusty map only to find that the Hoh National Rain Forest was on our way to Forks.</p>
<p>I can't begin to tell you how amazed we were when we began our hike into the forest. It was like stepping into a fairytale.</p>
<p>We did the loop hike through the Hall of Mosses and I will tell you the truth, never in my life have I seen shades of green like the ones I saw yesterday. The moss hangs off of the trees and drapes on everything while the dark green ferns cover the forest floor like grass. The soil is dark and moist and every surface is slippery and wet. There was a small creek with a bridge over it and I took lots of pictures and just stared into the crystal clear water, watching the almost neon green plants wave back and forth with the flow of the stream.</p>
<p>There are massive trees that have fallen on each other and are covered in green and brown moss. One has grown over the path in such a way that it arches perfectly which makes for a lovely photograph. I stood underneath it and Dad took my picture.</p>
<p>We enjoyed hiking the trail and standing among the other-worldly greenery surrounding us. I felt the moss several times and took such pleasure in admiring the almost microscopic leaves growing out of the fungus. We had such a hard time leaving because we enjoyed being in another eco-system for the afternoon...</p>
<p>More to come.</p>Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05660332698520474950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7313736563275987785.post-59306690467733524022018-11-19T21:10:00.002-08:002018-11-19T21:10:55.862-08:00Amy Falls in Love with the Flavel House Museum<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhtAaEdD4nKwi7Z_LKeR1yJVqPC7DCpNzwPGEoPTTIq4HuQ8sQ5Mjbt3gBAI0umk1NbTbbtDnNS8L7po2VKTNE6JD82rW2RgsktnZph4ocPLnryDCxN27tO7ci6H3v2uExktBMoOC4-IaO/s1600/Flavel+House+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhtAaEdD4nKwi7Z_LKeR1yJVqPC7DCpNzwPGEoPTTIq4HuQ8sQ5Mjbt3gBAI0umk1NbTbbtDnNS8L7po2VKTNE6JD82rW2RgsktnZph4ocPLnryDCxN27tO7ci6H3v2uExktBMoOC4-IaO/s320/Flavel+House+2.jpg" width="320" height="320" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1600" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHLF2c9QIrDrCDEzLFea5HqO67RslpVZqrWr8z43S1qckPqJLqQYeIYq-YVAHAB50OUd2B2poZM1Y8j309WPk-KUhLBitVUXQb7FpMTZY83EfdmLgxH6iPGjBo19GC-vTwOJBheihABExB/s1600/Flavel+House+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHLF2c9QIrDrCDEzLFea5HqO67RslpVZqrWr8z43S1qckPqJLqQYeIYq-YVAHAB50OUd2B2poZM1Y8j309WPk-KUhLBitVUXQb7FpMTZY83EfdmLgxH6iPGjBo19GC-vTwOJBheihABExB/s320/Flavel+House+1.jpg" width="320" height="320" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1600" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyvJ94h0vJ9MgvSyyZR7Tl8PX4P5TapDyjyGOgpBN5qHYWyMZjc9KAVSxZTEWXZsV6BpfnkZ8KUyY8RGTveoXNxJVa4u0PusuPWTyhJLBf50QBvf3emOkRAtR62RlGjQ-ynOWRpqsVmaE4/s1600/Flavel+House+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyvJ94h0vJ9MgvSyyZR7Tl8PX4P5TapDyjyGOgpBN5qHYWyMZjc9KAVSxZTEWXZsV6BpfnkZ8KUyY8RGTveoXNxJVa4u0PusuPWTyhJLBf50QBvf3emOkRAtR62RlGjQ-ynOWRpqsVmaE4/s320/Flavel+House+3.jpg" width="320" height="320" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1600" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcJ94x25iO49g1N10-uBAPSvllzIuM_GNy0dUW2IgJy9OQKGFzfSKllkvg0bRS1bc2B0KMbtWeIeO_MwdMRqZKJgnoJNcoCjQguaIbRcAQHJJlYCEfXOa0S0gxVG39wFOdhEQr73LPUQt5/s1600/Flavel+House+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcJ94x25iO49g1N10-uBAPSvllzIuM_GNy0dUW2IgJy9OQKGFzfSKllkvg0bRS1bc2B0KMbtWeIeO_MwdMRqZKJgnoJNcoCjQguaIbRcAQHJJlYCEfXOa0S0gxVG39wFOdhEQr73LPUQt5/s320/Flavel+House+4.jpg" width="320" height="320" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1600" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinWyrIVBAMFE1_0JKEfCYhyphenhyphenhxmYy76Lakvuh9vRFMlQvE98esx9tSqnlAqD0mir51lUIhM9PO5PhcE25GpUcjVaOsghGHJ46W5rKTm3KSlJlBc2lRSsJ-NTYb0gm6ttHAbtcoGqz0VKXl3/s1600/Nellie+Flavel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinWyrIVBAMFE1_0JKEfCYhyphenhyphenhxmYy76Lakvuh9vRFMlQvE98esx9tSqnlAqD0mir51lUIhM9PO5PhcE25GpUcjVaOsghGHJ46W5rKTm3KSlJlBc2lRSsJ-NTYb0gm6ttHAbtcoGqz0VKXl3/s320/Nellie+Flavel.jpg" width="320" height="320" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1600" /></a></div>
<p>After visiting Fort Clatsop on Monday morning, we drove back into Astoria and toured the Flavel House Museum, the retirement home of Captain George Flavel. It is a beautiful Victorian-era home whose construction was completed in 1886 and is now owned and run by the Clatsop County Historical Society.</p>
<p>Captain Flavel, his wife (he married her when she was only 14 years old) Mary Christina Boelling, and their two daughters Nellie and Katie lived in this house for many years until it was passed down to Flavel's great-granddaughter, Patricia Jean Flavel in 1934.</p>
<p>The house was very modern for the time and boasts indoor plumbing including flushing toilets. The exterior of the home is in the Queen Anne style and very much reminded me of Anne of Green Gables. It also has a lovely wrap-around porch and a beautiful "Ornamental finial," an iron sunflower sculpture (Sunflowers represent longevity, good fortune, and happiness) in the upstairs hall that used to be on the top of the tower part of the home where Captain Flavel could look out at the ships floating down the Columbia River.</p>
<p>Above the front door is a lovely hand-painted stained glass window depicting a ship on the ocean with a backdrop of clouds. It looked so beautiful with the afternoon sun shining through. I like to think of the family and their loved ones walking beneath it on a daily basis as they went about their business.</p>
<p>There are several little areas at the corners of the home that reminded me of breakfast nooks. The prettiest one was in the dining room, where a small table and chairs sat near the window that overlooks the back garden that used to have a garden. The Flavel daughters played croquet and tennis on the lawn and cared for their fruit trees beneath the window. I loved seeing that part of the house because I know they spent many happy mornings there, drinking their tea and enjoying meals together.</p>
<p>On the second floor are the family bedrooms and some lovely artifacts. It is a self-guided tour, so you can walk through the rooms and look into their closets and touch the fireplace mantles, etc. I thought this was so lovely because I have been in many wonderful historical homes where you were not allowed to go into the rooms or touch anything. I know that can be dangerous when it comes to preservation, but this time it was really cool.</p>
<p>The Flavel daughters never married but were very accomplished young ladies who played piano and sang and even went to Paris, France to perform. I looked for a book about them in the gift shop but didn't see one. This made me very sad because I feel their lives were worthy of being put into a book.</p>
<p>The museum did have a copy of Nellie's journal which tells of their experience surviving the San Francisco earthquake. Her words make you shudder as you read how they clung to each other and worried about whether or not they would live through it.</p>
<p>The house was quite empty when we were there, so we took pictures on the porch and slowly walked through the high-ceilinged hallways and studied the family portraits hanging on the walls. Dad and I really liked this part of our trip and were glad we took the time to tour it. Our tickets only cost six dollars, so it was well worth our time. Supporting historic homes such as the Flavel House is an important part of being a tourist.</p>
Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05660332698520474950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7313736563275987785.post-8167295236762349302018-11-19T20:33:00.003-08:002018-11-19T20:34:10.681-08:00Cape Disappointment & The Corps of Discovery <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Ce4OtTGZxMEBP91joY80nfY4kyB7yN5JDiMzt7XraLLP4yOswdc8dZzO3BSnqh797BRpM40RPZozz_ixB4AsSpx5K3D1UAtTHorNIPdyPnzP1HWsRTf7qcTsAchI3jPH2P-J8BWYrX15/s1600/Cape+Disappointment+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Ce4OtTGZxMEBP91joY80nfY4kyB7yN5JDiMzt7XraLLP4yOswdc8dZzO3BSnqh797BRpM40RPZozz_ixB4AsSpx5K3D1UAtTHorNIPdyPnzP1HWsRTf7qcTsAchI3jPH2P-J8BWYrX15/s320/Cape+Disappointment+2.jpg" width="320" height="320" data-original-width="960" data-original-height="960" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5cEtbCnap_PSlX2n2Sk2MDoK7eYOXZNHuX_fhZnnsl2l_ae7NbX4q7Ph7qDhIYrBCmOatRKCHqIxLyHW3-iEHvDBoInnDN1m-m9l1xfhCajuGW_ctCBO4Gu6tSffkrPaEZVqZKY9nY4ny/s1600/North+Head+Lighthouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5cEtbCnap_PSlX2n2Sk2MDoK7eYOXZNHuX_fhZnnsl2l_ae7NbX4q7Ph7qDhIYrBCmOatRKCHqIxLyHW3-iEHvDBoInnDN1m-m9l1xfhCajuGW_ctCBO4Gu6tSffkrPaEZVqZKY9nY4ny/s320/North+Head+Lighthouse.jpg" width="320" height="320" data-original-width="960" data-original-height="960" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE8cE7Lcw3CDMCBJJGPaVaFgmWZc4tT38tKfqm-JHl-9cKQQdpLlV-TMo1NJ7Fea9w8W0TreQ-vET89ojw3MWEviFO3sPfKjW-5RwKGTYlAJzVBFWTctH_L8uCFolFNas52sIw47UpQ9Zh/s1600/Dead+Man%2527s+Cove.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE8cE7Lcw3CDMCBJJGPaVaFgmWZc4tT38tKfqm-JHl-9cKQQdpLlV-TMo1NJ7Fea9w8W0TreQ-vET89ojw3MWEviFO3sPfKjW-5RwKGTYlAJzVBFWTctH_L8uCFolFNas52sIw47UpQ9Zh/s320/Dead+Man%2527s+Cove.jpg" width="320" height="320" data-original-width="960" data-original-height="960" /></a></div>
<p>Sunday was our busiest day so far.</p>
<p>We drove across the Columbia River on the Astoria bridge that connects Oregon to Washington and around the coastline to Cape Disappointment State Park.</p>
<p>Honestly, I don't even know where to start in telling you about this part of our trip. The drive was beautiful; little seaside towns and lovely trees, but then you take a turn off the main highway and make your way into the park itself and you are immediately in awe of everything you see. I kept telling Dad that I couldn't believe it was only a state park and not national! It really is that special.</p>
<p>Our first stop was Beard's Hollow, a small lookout point where you can see the ocean. We got so excited about the view that we jumped back in the car to get a closer look.</p>
<p>Beard's Hollow also has a trailhead which we found as we made our way further into the park itself. We got out of the car and hit the trail that led straight out to the beach area. As we crossed the low sand dunes, we just fell in love with the beautiful view that is the Pacific Ocean. Walking out onto a beach always gives me this open and unfettered feeling. We walked along the beach and took pictures for a while. I picked up a beautiful, tiny shell that is perfectly curved and white.</p>
<p>The waves crashed against the rocks that fold out into the water and Dad and I had a good time exploring the area some. Afterwards, we went back down the trail and admired the mossy green covering the trees and made Sasquatch jokes.</p>
<p>This entire time I've been feeling like I am walking through the Harry and the Henderson's movie. Haha.</p>
<p>After that, we drove to North Head Lighthouse which which was put into <a href="http://http://northheadlighthouse.com/history/">service</a> on May 16, 1898. The area has a beautiful view of the coast and on that day there was no wind or rain. We have been told several times that the weather we are enjoying is uncommon for this time of year!</p>
<p>A few more miles down the road took us to the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center which sits atop an old military battery where a MASSIVE gun was hidden. The center has some fascinating artifacts that may have belonged to the explorers and some that definitely belonged to Patrick Gass, the Corps of Discovery's carpenter. The items include a wooden box said to have been carved and given to Gass by Sacajawea herself, a hatchet, a metal flask, and some books.</p>
<p>The flask was my favorite piece because Gass carried it with him throughout the entire journey. It was really neat to look at it through the glass and think about all they went through to accomplish what Jefferson had asked them to do. It's the small things a lot of the time that get to me, just the intimate pieces people carry with them from home.</p>
<p>We tried to make it to Cape Disappointment Lighthouse but the trail was really steep and my knees were about to give out. We did make it to Dead Man's Cove which lies directly beneath the lighthouse itself. The cove is very mysterious looking and reminded me of something out of Peter Pan. Strange, I know.</p>
<p>I bought some lovely things in the gift shop, including a stuffed Sasquatch. He is the cutest thing! I also bought a silver charm that has Meriwether Lewis' face on it and some postcards.</p>
<p>After the park, we drove on down the coast to the (kind of hidden spot) where there is a monument to the tree where Captain William Clark carved his name and the date as he emerged from the woods onto the beach. The tree is metal, but the inscription believed to be written by Clark reads "William Clark. November 19th, 1805. By Land from the U. States." We were excited to see this portion of the trail and coupled with the beautiful beach area, we were not disappointed.</p>
<p>On our drive back to Astoria, we stopped at Fort Columbia which was an operational fort from 1896 until 1947. The buildings are painted yellow and can be rented for vacation homes. We enjoyed climbing over the concrete areas that were built during WWII. There are two big guns that when fired recoil down into the ground.</p>
<p>I don't know a lot about war weaponry, but those were pretty cool.</p>
<p>That was the end of our day yesterday and, as you can imagine, we were pretty tuckered out by 5 pm. I must say, I am pretty tired even now!</p>
Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05660332698520474950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7313736563275987785.post-4211931456184766932018-11-19T19:13:00.000-08:002018-11-19T19:13:16.950-08:00Arrival at Fort Clatsop<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEFGJ-6CQwgSBgSaF6vfFuvofhb9d8Jou7eBZE9a_b-rGq_du46QE02X4nZthD5rR0XERziY6mX0E5dgqAFSYo_DZUDqBIfnTuIfLTIAwukLObeG-3YW5M2uKVY9Q1810i2hzT_cpGkV8J/s1600/Amy+at+Fort+Clatsop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEFGJ-6CQwgSBgSaF6vfFuvofhb9d8Jou7eBZE9a_b-rGq_du46QE02X4nZthD5rR0XERziY6mX0E5dgqAFSYo_DZUDqBIfnTuIfLTIAwukLObeG-3YW5M2uKVY9Q1810i2hzT_cpGkV8J/s320/Amy+at+Fort+Clatsop.jpg" width="320" height="320" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1600" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF7tqIAUSpVeq13_X9QDU3_VBsX5XtrOkbBqvmWKf-dOUa37OG-UGWLny7gRFFybwdln_si5zCZDLQAhps_oawWAZX8Ry8XRKA3cJfQCfTt_I0zYwizvO3y0zET0a3N0x5L0P_3bmFPXa4/s1600/Fort+Clatsop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF7tqIAUSpVeq13_X9QDU3_VBsX5XtrOkbBqvmWKf-dOUa37OG-UGWLny7gRFFybwdln_si5zCZDLQAhps_oawWAZX8Ry8XRKA3cJfQCfTt_I0zYwizvO3y0zET0a3N0x5L0P_3bmFPXa4/s320/Fort+Clatsop.jpg" width="320" height="320" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1600" /></a></div>
</p>Dad and I got up this morning and drove to Fort Clatsop National Park near Astoria.</p>
<p>The fort is the reason we were inspired to make this trip in the first place, so it was quite satisfying to see it with our own eyes. The visitor's center has an excellent exhibit with lots of artifacts and informative videos. There is an impressive statue of Lewis and Clark that stands in front of a large window toward the back of the museum that I liked very much.</p>
<p>We walked into the gift shop and I bought a small replica of the coin the explorers gave to the Native Americans to show them they came in peace. It has a picture of Thomas Jefferson on one side, and a picture of shaking hands on the other and says something about peace on it. The coin isn't so large that I could not wear it on a necklace chain, so I will probably do that. Yesterday, which I will cover in my next post, I bought a small silver charm at the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center at Cape Disappointment that has Meriwether Lewis' face on it. I just adore the charm and I think I am the only girl in America (maybe) who would wear something like that around her neck.</p>
<p>After viewing the exhibit at Fort Clatsop, we walked out of the center and down a mossy, tree covered path to the fort itself.</p>
<p>I know it is just a replica of the original, but wow, it is so cool. We took pictures at the entrance gate and then took our time looking inside the different barrack-like rooms of the fort. Sacajawea and husband Charbonneau and their child spent the first winter of 1805 in the room at the front of the fort, on the right side. The rooms are quite small and the ceilings low, but I am sure the Corps of Discovery was grateful to have a solid shelter to spend the winter.</p>
<p>The Columbia River is nearby and there are trails leading around the edge of the water. The Corps hunted in the woods and traded with the Native Americans on a regular basis. The fort is named Clatsop, in honor of the Clatsop tribe. I thought that was quite interesting.</p>
<p>We very much enjoyed the fort and after walking through it and taking pictures, we sat on a carved wooden bench and looked at the tall trees and enjoyed the cool air.</>
<p>More about our adventures on Sunday in my next post which I will be writing shortly.</p>Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05660332698520474950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7313736563275987785.post-28388168971612162632018-11-17T19:40:00.000-08:002018-11-20T20:53:17.372-08:00Portland, Pancakes, and Sasquatch: Our First Day in Oregon<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk22xWFkeQeqXIkfp5IDFPL743rePkPUecqvQfr5ZKKFR1riIJNm2njOnZVnabIlh0uyosMX_fT0dhLp34Fe063172eTOE-zvYqBIaq0cA5zEGxfhQfg4tcI9ddIvMcAd2PKiqKElF_COT/s1600/Pig+N%2527+Pancake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk22xWFkeQeqXIkfp5IDFPL743rePkPUecqvQfr5ZKKFR1riIJNm2njOnZVnabIlh0uyosMX_fT0dhLp34Fe063172eTOE-zvYqBIaq0cA5zEGxfhQfg4tcI9ddIvMcAd2PKiqKElF_COT/s320/Pig+N%2527+Pancake.jpg" width="320" height="320" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1600" /></a></div>
<p>This morning at 11 am, Dad and I arrived in Portland, Oregon.</p>
<p>I don't like flying much, but this time was particularly yucky toward the end of the flight because (stupid me) I did not drink enough water beforehand and did not eat a sandwich right before or during the flight. As we landed, the plane did this up and down thing which made it worse, but I survived. It is good to be on solid ground again.</p>
<p>We got our rental car, a new thing for us, and sped out of Portland and onto highway 26 as we made our way up the coast toward Astoria.</p>
<p>The forests are vast in the surrounding area and the hills below Mt. Saint Helen's were colored golden in the afternoon light. Somehow the area reminded me of the Virginia countryside with all of its open fields and sloping hills. We very much enjoyed the first part of the trip because of the scenery. Although we have not made it to the coast and the ocean yet, we can see how different a world it is. The trees just fill your view and the shade it casts can be dark and intimidating, especially for two prairie folk like ourselves.</p>
<p>The entire time we were on the winding road through the forests, I kept thinking of the movie Harry and the Henderson's because Harry (the Sasquatch) lives in a place just like this where the trees are all mossy and ferns cover the forest floor. In fact, the movie is set in Seattle, which is not far from where we are now.</p>
<p>We had a good laugh about this because (the movie is hilarious) I must admit, I can see how people who visit Oregon and Washington could believe in such a creature.</p>
<p>To be honest, I desperately hope we come across some kind of Sasquatch tour or hike while we are here. Or perhaps some merchandise...</p>
<p>After arriving in Astoria, we made our way downtown to search out some dinner. We saw several signs for a place called "Pig N' Pancake" where they serve AMAZING pancakes (obviously) and other lovely things. We ate at the original location which was established in the early 1970s. I had ham, eggs, and a pancake and it was delicious and comforting.</p>
<p>After we ate, we drove deeper into the downtown area. It reminds me of the scene in A Christmas Story when they go to the parade and then to meet Santa. The shop windows are FULL of sparkly vintage items including gnomes, and I just love how they have preserved the feel of the 40s and 50s by revitalizing the area. There are several pubs and bars that are local where people seem to like meeting their friends. I love to see this kind of atmosphere in a small town such as Astoria.</p>
<p>It's really funny also to see so many places selling marijuana because it is legal here. One of the shops is called "The Farmacy." We had a good laugh over that one!</p>
<p>Dad and I plan to take a longer walk downtown in a few days, but tomorrow we will focus on Lewis and Clark and their hike to Cape Disappointment. The state park there (it is located across the Columbia River in WA) has an interpretive center for both explorers, and another for Sacagawea, the Native American woman who helped them on the journey.</p>
<p>I am terribly excited about all of it and we came at just the right time; It will be sunny for the next few days and we are thrilled!</p>
<p>Everyone is so lovely here and we feel very welcome. After we said we'd be going up to Forks, WA in a few days, the hotel ladies asked "Are you Twilighters?" Dad looked at them like they were crazy. Haha!</p>
<p>So far, we are having a great time, but I am very tired. More to follow.</p>Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05660332698520474950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7313736563275987785.post-21452474722645115422018-11-12T18:11:00.000-08:002018-11-12T18:12:35.180-08:00Buying Clothes as an Aspiring Minimalist<p>Over the past few days, I have had several people tell me that they have begun cleaning out their closets, etc in order to embrace a more minimalist lifestyle. I found myself smiling when they told me this because one of them mentioned my posts on Facebook and how they influenced them to begin the process.</p>
<p>Cleaning out is always hard, but embracing a new lifestyle is even harder. Saving money has been a big push for me to do this, other than that, I just wanted to get rid of all the mountains of clutter that were filling up my house. Per my previous posts, you can see that I have come a very long way in the process.</p>
<p>Here's the thing: I still want to get rid of MORE.</p>
<p>There are a few items currently sitting on my dresser (I am looking at them right now) that I don't feel the need to keep anymore. It comes down to the fact that I like clean surfaces and clear spaces more than I do said items. The joy I find in blank areas has become important to me and the way I live my life. Items that had sentimental value for a while need no longer to take up space in my bedroom. My heart is big enough to remember these things fondly, but it is time to let them go so that I can move on.</p>
<p>One item is a Beauty and the Beast snow globe. There is a bubble in the top and I think that means it is getting old. I do love it, but it takes up space and I love my La Belle Dame Sans Merci print which hangs above it more than I want to keep the globe. These are the kinds of decisions one must make when trying to create the minimalist lifestyle!</p>
<p>It is not easy, but it is necessary.</p>
<P>Then there are the clothes. I have literally cleaned out my closet 3 times now, each being a major purge, but there are still items I am holding onto that I do not wear or like. I keep grabbing the same outfits over and over (I read this would happen once the minimalist process began) and have enjoyed wearing my favorite things more than once in a two week period. Laundry is much easier also because you do one or two little loads on the weekend, then it's back to normal Monday morning, switching outfits around, etc.</p>
<p>I know there are people out there who think they would not be able to survive with only a few clothes to wear, but it really is freeing.</p>
<p>Here's an example for you: I work with a girl who (seems to) rotates her outfits. She has a few pieces that go together and mixes and matches them. I see her 5 times a week and she always has on at least one item I saw her in a few days before or the week before. And you know what? She ALWAYS looks great. She is always clean, polished, and comfortable in her outfits because she likes them and finds joy in wearing the pieces she already owns.</p>
<p>Confession: I got on Old Navy's website and looked at the sale items yesterday. I bought 3 new pieces. But here's the catch: I will get rid of three (or four, or more) when they arrive in the mail. It has literally become this "thing" in the back of my brain that makes me uncomfortable knowing I've bought some items but haven't gotten rid of anything.</p>
<p>Sometimes I don't think this process will ever end, but it takes a conscious effort to remove and not add to the items in my home.</p>
<p>In regard to clothing: look, if you need something, buy it. The thing with the two dresses and jacket I bought is that I will wear them over and over. They are good, basic pieces that I can dress up with some of my favorite accessories (of which I don't have many anymore).</p>
<p>So don't feel bad about buying some new clothing items every now and then. If you need something it's okay. Just don't go overboard and search out sales on a regular basis. Spend money only on the essentials. Everything else will clutter your life and that isn't healthy.</p>Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05660332698520474950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7313736563275987785.post-60631587541216062462018-11-11T20:20:00.001-08:002018-11-11T20:20:40.850-08:00The Value of Silence<p>Silence.</p>
<p>How much of your day do you actually spend in silence? Five minutes? Ten? I don't think I even spend that much of my day in a state of calm and peace, with no noise around me.</p>
<p>However, I do walk my dog pretty much every morning on the trail behind our house. I usually carry my iPod with me, but most of the time I walk in silence. It is nice to hear only the clicking of Scout's nails on the pavement and the wind in the trees. The donkey who lives in the field nearby brays so loudly, you can hear it from far away.</p>
<p>Sitting in silence is hard to do, especially since we are all so used to having things flashing before our eyes and voices or music drumming in our heads 24/7.</p>
<p>When I went in to Ulta the other day, my ears were accosted by the sound of loud, obnoxious Christmas music. And it wasn't just any Christmas music mind you, it was the Dance of the Sugarplum Fairy with a bass beat and a hip hop sound.</p>
<p>Let's just say I got in and out as fast as I could.</p>
<p>When I emerged from the hellish Christmas discotheque, it felt so good to enter the quiet parking lot and escape the too-early mania that is the annual marketing strategy of American consumerism. I don't begin celebrating Christmas beginning on November 1st because, well, that's just ridiculous.</p>
<p>Anyway, silence is valuable. Its valuable because not many people utilize it nowadays.</p>
<p>I was sitting in my living room praying the other day and found it difficult to focus on what I was saying to God. I kept repeating myself and to him I must have sounded like a babbling idiot. I know he knows what I am trying to say, but I articulate my speech better in conversations with friends than I do with the God of the universe. I blame our culture and the fact that we are constantly consuming media and noise. I also blame myself and the fact that I have not taken the time to utilize silence in order to form a quiet place in my mind and heart to speak with God on a regular basis.</p>
<p>Even though prayer is not totally silent, it is imperative that we practice it. It is imperative that we know the value of silence. Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05660332698520474950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7313736563275987785.post-57359985141748606962018-11-03T11:42:00.001-07:002018-11-11T18:57:19.392-08:00Moving Forward<p>The past few weeks have caused me to think through a lot of things.</p>
<p>Do you ever have those times when everything seems to smash together at once, like a car wreck? Not always in a bad way, sometimes it's just the right time for things to happen and they all seem to converge at once.</p>
<p>I've just been thinking about the past and how it has affected who I am today. When I turned 30 in September, I didn't think much of it. It was just another day. But looking back on the past 20 years or so from where I stand today shows me how far I have actually come. I am not afraid to say that some of the things I walked through really hurt. They might have felt like a sort of dull pain at the time, but in hindsight I can see how God carried me through.</p>
<p>That sounds like a cliche, I know, but it really is true. I can't help but think "How in the world did I make it through that on my own?"</p>
<p>I wasn't truly on my own, that's how.</p>
<p>Anyway. Leaving the church (five years ago now, I believe) I grew up in was one of the best decisions I ever made. Don't get me wrong, I don't hate anyone and that's not the reason I left. I just knew it was time and I did everything I could possibly do there.</p>
<p>I know some would say (and did say to me) "There's no perfect church!" But that's not the point. Even Christians sometimes don't understand the concept of God telling someone to move forward in their walk with him, no matter who it upsets. The people who said that to me did not hear what I heard from God. They didn't feel stagnant, under-appreciated, overlooked, or just dry inside as I did.</p>
<p>My entire existence there was just going through the motions and living with a dull sense of happiness where you just kept doing the same thing day after day without realizing you are dead inside.</p>
<p>The only thing that kept me alive was attending Bible Study Fellowship. Truly. I don't know how I made it through all those dry deserts without collapsing.</p>
<p>I always felt when I was at the church they were withholding Bible knowledge from me. It was a subtle "Get back in your place" thing. And when I really began to read and study the Bible for myself, I came alive.</p>
<p>You know in the Snow White fairytale when the prince comes upon her dead body and as soon as he kisses her, her eyes fly open and she gasps a breath of air, then sits up? He's just breathed life back into his true love and that's exactly how I felt after leaving. It took some time for me to understand this, but when I did it felt like I was a whole new person.</p>
<p>I can see how some would read this and think I am a horrible person for even thinking these things. But you know what? I'm not. For a long time, I did not allow myself to think critically about leadership, beliefs, and the overall attitudes of many people I knew. I did not want to think badly of them and I still don't. I just want to be real about how people were hurt and are hurting. I am not the kind of person who can live with shadows, so I firmly believe in telling the truth about how we are all damaged human beings.</p>
<p>There's nothing wrong with talking about how you truly feel and telling the truth about what you experienced. How else will you be able to move on with your life? How can you live with shadows dogging your footsteps and fears of whomever or whatever taking root inside of you?</p>
<p>I can't live that way and I don't want anyone else to either.</p>
<p>I've had many, many conversations with others who have made the decision to leave there or move on from other unhealthy circumstances or relationships in their lives and it is liberating to know that they are on the right track. It's awesome to see that we agree on how to move forward and that it's okay to acknowledge the bad things, talk about them, and then move on to greener pastures.</p>
<p>I just want people to be free and truthful with themselves about any toxicity they have discovered in their lives. God doesn't want us to live that way, especially if it is taking up residence in our minds and drawing us away from a thriving relationship with him.</p>
<p>I sacrificed that for a long time and I refuse to do it anymore.</p>
Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05660332698520474950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7313736563275987785.post-30671435449752311012018-10-06T17:50:00.000-07:002018-11-17T19:43:53.377-08:00Little Women: Movie Review<p>Well. I just got back from the movie theater where I saw the new modern remake of Little Women.</p>
<p>I have been anticipating the release of this film ever since I saw it advertised, and it did not disappoint.</p>
<p>It was a beautiful, heartfelt and creative version of the classic novel. I especially appreciated the literary references, one of which was a clear nod to the Pilgrim's Progress. I like how the director had the actresses act out scenes from the famous work, and integrate the theme of the spiritual journey into the story itself.</p>
<p>Throughout the entire film, Beth wears a small gold cross on a chain around her neck. I felt this meant that she was the one of the spiritual leaders of the March home, along with her father. As we all know, Beth is the sister who encourages the others. She is the one who makes them believe whenever they think all is lost. Therefore, I saw in her the heavenly light that is hope, woven throughout this new version.</p>
<p>The actresses all played their parts with excellence. The young man who portrays Laurie was excellent, and when he declares his love for Jo, it was totally believable, unlike the newer PBS version that was, well, not quite believable.</p>
<p>In this version, Jo March is so fiery! I loved the actress who plays this character. She is all over the place, all the time, and I think that is how Jo March is supposed to be. She constantly overflows with story ideas and feelings. I also loved that she was a bit of a tomboy... her dragon print t-shirts made me smile because I identify with that. Jo is weird; she has to be! By watching (and reading) her character, I find that I too, want to be weird. Or rather, MYSELF.</p>
<p>Leah Thompson was an excellent Marmee. She has such a sweet and gentle beauty and I felt her connection with the other actresses really meant she enjoyed playing the part. The scene when their father comes home and she runs into his arms and kisses him made me cry. Those kinds of scenes always do...</p>
<p>When Meg attends a party after being "done up" by her girlfriends, she gets into a dangerous situation with a guy who has been drinking. Some might think this was over the top for a new version of Little Women (Meg wasn't a bad girl!) but I thought it fit perfectly into our modern times. She realizes that she's made a mistake and pushes the guy away, finding out that he doesn't see her as special at all.</p>
<p>You come to see that Meg really just wants to be preparing herself to make her own home, with her own husband. That's where John Brooke comes in... and he is just as sweet in this one as the rest of them.</p>
<p>I LOVED the scene when Meg and Jo disagree about why Meg wants to get married. Jo doesn't want to attend the wedding because she just hates it that things are changing. Meg stands up to her and, in my opinion, makes a strong speech about a woman's choice. Jo can't believe her sister would give up her freedom "for a man," and Meg counters her argument beautifully by saying that her choice is just as important as Jo's. She tells her sister that her dream is to have a home, a husband, and a family of her own. That may not be Jo's choice, but it is hers.</p>
<p>Contrary to what we see in our culture today, there are women out there who WANT to be married and start a family... there will always be women who want that kind of life, because that is their dream.</p>
<p>The director did such a beautiful job of writing that into the script, and I think it is a strong and pertinent lesson for "little women" today.</p>
<p>So, if you're hesitant about taking your daughters to see Little Women, don't. The message is fair and balanced, and not political at all. This version makes sure to touch on the dreams and aspirations of all women, including those of us who are crazy, weird, and all over the place creatives.</p>
<p>Jo is a runner in this version, which made me think immediately of Elizabeth Bennet and her affinity for walking. Jo runs to "work out her anger" and I think Elizabeth walks to help herself think, and to feel free. The act of exercise seems to be something these characters must do to order their thoughts and be in connection with their inner selves.</p>
<p>In the movie, both weddings (yes, there are two) are home weddings... my favorite. I loved how they decorated with Mason jars and other homey items.</p>
<p>Freddy Bhaer is lovely in this one, too. He is a bit older than Jo (who is 29 when she falls in love with him) but it's not weird because of the timeline of this story version. I liked his quiet demeanor, much like Gabriel Byrne's in the 1994 film version. Professor Bhaer is supposed to be the calm to Jo's storm, and this actor played that part well. You can see in his eyes the love he has for Jo, and how he knows she will come around in the end. His quiet waiting is so romantic, I almost wish they would have spent more time on their love story like the 1994 version does.</p>
<p>In the end, I LOVED IT and I will be buying it on DVD the moment it becomes available. I can't wait to see what the director does next because this was one of the best movies I've seen in a long, long time.</p>
<p>One last thing: The March girls call themselves the "Weird Homeschool Girls" which I thought was very funny and (obviously) another aspect with which I identify.</p>Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05660332698520474950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7313736563275987785.post-79949398067047617362018-10-02T18:47:00.000-07:002018-10-02T18:47:48.303-07:00Three Ways Minimalism Has Surprised Me<p>Hello again.</p>
<p>So I know I've been talking about minimalism a lot lately, but ever since I discovered the movement online (thanks Pinterest), I just haven't been able to stop thinking about how I can implement these practices into my daily life.</p>
<p>As to my previous post, I still need to sit down and go through the jewelry in my holder that hangs on the back of my door. I should be able to get to it soon.</p>
<p>Today, I wanted to tell you about the three most significant things that have surprised me about minimalism. Let's see...</p>
<p>1. The first thing would have to be how much better I feel.</p>
<p>I can't even begin to tell you how much lighter my spirit is since getting rid of all the things that were lining my walls and spilling out of my closet. You know when they say "You won't remember what you let go"? Well, they are RIGHT. Let it go and I guarantee you, you will not remember it within a week, or less.</p>
<p>2. Practicing minimalism has inspired my family to do the same.</p>
<p>In the beginning, I didn't think my family would be on board with cleaning out all the extra stuff we had, but when I got started and they saw how happy it made me, they began to clean out, too. I know there are many people out there who worry their families aren't ready to take the leap, but once you get started, you can't stop! It just feels good to rid yourself of old things or items you spent money on but never use.</p>
<p>My Dad is definitely a neat person, as is my Mom, but when you are overwhelmed with the amount of items you have in your home, it is really hard to get started. Part of the reason we really got started was when we had a bit of a flood in our back bathroom. We had the carpet replaced and there wasn't much damage done, but the water did ruin my Mom's bedside table legs. Once we got rid of that and pulled everything out of their closets, they saw how much they really had. I did the same when I purged my own closet.</p>
<p>I am now 30 years old and I still live at home. I don't feel ashamed about that at all because it is where I want to be, and now that we are working on cleaning out the house, I am even more glad to be at home with them.</p>
<p>3. I am more apt to spend time in my Bible and other books.</p>
<p>For some reason, I was always too distracted by my environment of STUFF that I couldn't focus on reading. I am the kind of person who has to have quiet to absorb what she is reading. Now, my bedroom reflects that and my brain thanks me for it.</p>
<p>As to my Bible study, I had to make a decision earlier this year to clean out because I just couldn't stand the stuff anymore. We aren't hoarders, so don't think it was that bad, but it really felt like I was up to my neck in things I didn't use or need anymore. I now WANT to spend time in my room, reading my Bible, whereas before it was hard to concentrate.</p>
<p>I don't want to waste any more of my time on this earth rearranging junk that has crept into my life because I spent money when I shouldn't have.</p>
Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05660332698520474950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7313736563275987785.post-82509450616529372592018-09-29T15:55:00.000-07:002018-09-29T15:55:14.252-07:00My Minimalist Jewelry Box<p>To be honest, I did not realize how much minimalism would begin to be incorporated into my life once I began the journey.</p>
<p>I find myself wanting to get rid of things or clean out areas of the house almost daily. However, I can't spend that much time each day decluttering, so I mostly save it for the weekends.</p>
<p>Today, I grabbed my jewelry box (the one that used to be my Mom's... I love it so much) and opened it up to assess the contents. It is strange how when you clean it out once, as I did a few months ago, you think "Oh, I did that already. It's done," when in reality, you previously convinced yourself that there were items hiding inside it that you "needed" to keep.</p>
<p>I found that this was not true once I opened it up again!</p>
<p>There were several, and I mean, SEVERAL things I either never wear or that are getting old and tarnished. Before you make a noise, no, I did not throw away any sterling silver jewelry that could be cleaned and polished! I kept all the pieces that I wear that need to be cleaned.</p>
<p>There were a few items that held memories for me, but I touched them once, then threw them away. Over the course of this minimalist journey, I really have learned to let go of things easier. It does not feel like I am forcing myself to let go now, in the beginning it did a little, though. Now, it just feels good and right to rid myself of things that clutter my brain just by being in the same room where I sleep!</p>
<p>I don't say this to sound funny, because it is true. The more stuff I hang onto, the more I feel I am held back by physical things that don't mean anything to me. I am not getting rid of the items that I find valuable in an emotional sense, because that would be counterproductive. That would mean I am further burdening myself with the pain of letting go when I should feel free and happy to donate slightly used items or throw away trash that is lurking in the corners.</p>
<p>My jewelry box used to be even more full of stuff (costume jewelry, etc) that will not stand the test of time. Looking at it now, it makes me sad that I thought those things would last, when in real life, I was only buying those things because they fed my addiction to sparkly junk.</p>
<p>And here's a really honest moment for you: Most of the things I've bought in the past just weren't... ME.</p>
<p>They were either hyped by advertising or I saw one of my friends with one of whatever it was. I don't want to be that person... the person who buys things so they feel like they "fit in" with everyone else. I've never been that person, ever, and I don't intend to start now.</p>
<p>I don't look good in sparkly shoes. Neither do I need a purse with printed cartoon or animals all over it. Those things are hyped by the stores where I see them displayed and my eyes are tricked into thinking "MUST HAVE!"</p>
<p>I used to shop at Charming Charlie's all the time... now I can't seem to find anything I want in there. It's all just too much, if I'm honest.</p>
<p>Yes, there will be times in the future when I mess up and buy something stupid. But for the most part, focusing on the relationships in my life and the experiences I have and will have are far, far more important that buying something sparkly that ends up in the back of my drawer.</p>
<p>I need very few things. And the few things I truly need are: My family, my best friend, good/healthy food, a nice walk, my Bible, my church family, good books to read and good clothes to wear.</p>
<p>Anything more and I am giving in to the hype. I am just tired of wanting unnecessary things.</p>Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05660332698520474950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7313736563275987785.post-23929687317096025702018-09-24T17:15:00.001-07:002018-09-24T17:22:27.260-07:00The Top 11 Books I Keep On My "Minimalist" Shelf<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeoVhvjqRJUmx6LI1NoBeah546UjEBHbYfi4fw-lxi9ZVAm1f6Hy1yc3ubK5cbhDCVO0APp0zKhNQl5aRck1STzw_PTahkqdagM57oPMhCjdvF1PcnExEYSeOcVGxXw_82wfX5wtwSOX07/s1600/20180924_184407.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeoVhvjqRJUmx6LI1NoBeah546UjEBHbYfi4fw-lxi9ZVAm1f6Hy1yc3ubK5cbhDCVO0APp0zKhNQl5aRck1STzw_PTahkqdagM57oPMhCjdvF1PcnExEYSeOcVGxXw_82wfX5wtwSOX07/s320/20180924_184407.jpg" width="320" height="320" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1600" /></a></div>
<p>I know I am doing this minimalism thing, but one of the points they emphasize is that if an item brings you joy or is useful, keep it. They've told people with book collections (who adore their books) to keep whatever books they truly love.</p>
<p>I think that's fair, right?</p>
<p>Although I have gotten rid of many, many books, there are some titles I like to have close at hand. There is something about just knowing they are there whenever I "need" to read them. I hope my reader friends out there feel the same.</p>
<p>A familiar book is like an old friend; they are there through the hard times and also the good times. For myself, I do not read a book flippantly. If I am going to actually take the time to go from the first chapter till the last, that's an investment for me. I don't just read to read... I read to know, to enjoy, and to carry the words around with me for weeks, even months, after the book is finished.</p>
<p>Honestly, I think that's how it's supposed to be, anyway. Certain books bring about specific feelings that no other book can. Between the paperback or hardback cover is a whole new world... cue Aladdin ;)</p>
<p>So now I thought I'd have some fun and also give you a little insight into what I keep on my shelves; the books I can't live without. Let's go with the top ten.</p>
<p>1. Beauty, A Retelling of Beauty and the Beast.</p>
<p>This book is my most favorite book of ALL. TIME. I can't count how many nights I have stayed up late reading the story of Beauty and the Beast in this beautiful newish version. When I read it, I am calmed. I love the quietness of the story, and the fact that the castle is silent, not filled with singing pots and pans (I love the Disney movie too, so don't get me wrong). It is deeply romantic and just my most favorite book in the whole world.</p>
<p>2. Jane Eyre.</p>
<p>I don't feel the need to say much about Charlotte Bronte's most affecting work. It has everything you could ever dream of.</p>
<p>3. The Mark of the Lion series.</p>
<p>This is a trilogy (I know, I know) set in Rome after Jerusalem has fallen to the Romans. It follows the story of a Christian girl as she is sold into slavery and falls in love with the handsome Marcus, a very rich and troubled Roman. That's just scratching the surface of the entire story. It's got gladiators, battles, murder, romance, you name it. I've read the first book so many times, I can't keep count!</p>
<P>4. The Harry Potter series.</p>
<p>A seven book series is considered one story, right? Well it does to me. And who doesn't love Harry Potter?</p>
<p>5. To Kill a Mockingbird.</p>
<p>A classic that I've read so many times, I've lost count. I love the movie, too.</p>
<p>6. The Hiding Place.</p>
<p>I've read this several times also. We recently read it aloud to one another and cried through almost every chapter. My Dad really enjoyed it.</p>
<p>7. The Lord of the Rings.</p>
<p>I really have nothing to say other than I LOVE THESE BOOKS... (and the movies, too even though they aren't quite like the books. But I don't care, okay?)</p>
<p>8. Angel Harp and Heather Song.</p>
<p>This is a two book series that just took my breath away. The first one was good and reminded me of my month is Scotland *sigh* but the second book was even better! It's romantic, creepy, and just so lovely on so many levels.</p>
<p>9. The Captive.</p>
<p>This is an old Victoria Holt romance. It is one of the best books I've ever read, just really fun and full of romance and intrigue. Plus the protagonist spends the first half trapped in a harem, then escapes to England where things get even more interesting. Holt's books are just good and juicy for a rainy evening read.</p>
<p>10. The Castle in the Attic.</p>
<p>This is a children's book that I found at the library book sale. I recommend it to everyone because it is one of my favorites. It's about a little boy who doesn't want his nanny to go back to England when he has gotten too old to even have a nanny. She has an old play castle sent over from her home in England, and all sorts of interesting things happen when he decides to use magic to keep her with him. I love it because it teaches children about growing up and how to be brave when you most want to be scared.</p>
<p>Okay, let's do eleven books.</p>
<p>11. Major Pettigrew's Last Stand.</p>
<p>I can't tell you how much I enjoyed reading this book. I love British humor, so my mind catches on quickly to their little quips and sayings. I especially loved this one because it is about an older man finding love again in the most unlikely place. A lovely, lovely novel that should be read by everyone.</p>
<p>Well, I hope you enjoy my list. I could probably add a ton more, but I'll stop there. For now ;)</p>
<p>Minimalism is hard, but once you get rid of the excess, you begin to realize how valuable the things you really love actually are. Thus my list. These are the titles I could enjoy over and over, and I want to keep it that way by not adding so many books that I don't love to my collection.</p>
Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05660332698520474950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7313736563275987785.post-18859027585933187082018-09-22T11:43:00.002-07:002018-09-22T11:45:54.668-07:00Thoughts on Church Leadership<p>In the beginning, I tried to ignore <a href="http://https://www.washingtonpost.com/religion/2018/09/15/disgraced-baptist-leader-paige-patterson-body-shames-woman-his-return-pulpit/?utm_term=.5bf5e884ebb2">this</a>.</p>
<p>Then I tried not to take sides.</p>
<p>Then I listened to my friends who have been affected by attitudes such as Patterson’s and I couldn’t ignore it any longer.</p>
<p>After listening and really thinking hard about what my friends said and how they were wounded, I dug into my own past/memories and remembered some really difficult things that happened to me.</p>
<p>Before we go any further, know that I do not see myself as a victim. That is not why I am writing this post. The main reason I am writing this is because I want my non-Christian friends to know that comments like the ones documented in this article and comments from the past are NOT how Christian men should talk about or treat women, their sisters in Christ Jesus.</p>
<p>As a Christian woman, I have dealt with a lot of bad attitudes coming out of my brothers in Christ. I have been talked about, accused of things I did not do, and screamed at on a few occasions by said brothers. I never received an apology after each of these events.</p>
<p>There were young men whom I spent time with that made it very clear to me that they felt I needed to rise to their level and understand that I was the lucky one to be spending time with them, not the other way around. They viewed myself (and others) as their golden ticket into the ministry.</p>
<p>At the time, my parents were very unhappy about how I was treated, but I begged them not to say anything because I did not want to rock the boat or “upset” anyone. I endured it and let it go, time after time.</p>
<p>But now, after reading stories online of women who have come out saying “This happened to me,” I feel that by telling their stories, they have set off a sort of domino effect.</p>
<p>After reading Patterson’s past comments about young women, it got me thinking: Did Jesus go back to his disciples after meeting the Samaritan woman at the well and tell them “Guys, this woman was *wink wink* nice!” Or “That Samaritan lady, she was built, I mean to tell you what!”</p>
<p>No. Our Lord Jesus did not objectify her like that. Instead, he revealed to her that he was the Messiah, the One who had come to save all mankind from their sins.</p>
<p>Think about it: a Jewish man tells a Samaritan WOMAN who he truly is. Even speaking to her was unheard of at the time.</p>
<p>My point is, shouldn’t Patterson follow the Lord’s example and refrain from commenting on the bodies of his sisters in Christ?</p>
<p>If this man is so revered by his supporters who follow his lead, how do they see the women around them? Do they look us over like pieces of meat and objectify us to their brothers? Do they use our physical appearance for a Ha Ha moment during a sermon?</p>
<p>Don’t get me wrong. I am a sinner too. But his comments have gone too far. It’s becoming a black eye on the body of Christ, the church. And when it comes to that, I know I need to say something.</p>
<p>Now that I look back on it, I am glad Beth Moore came out and said what she did because it raised an alarm. It definitely woke me up to understand my sisters and how they have been treated in the past, and it helped me remember my own experiences.</p>
<p>So if anyone reading this ever felt I was not listening to you, I am sorry. I want to admit that I was wrong.</p>
<p>No, I don’t want a man to be falsely accused, and I really don’t think my sisters do either. I know they don’t because they are fair-minded individuals.</p>
<p>But I do have to wonder, is it because of these attitudes that we felt we’d be shamed if we spoke up? Were we just supposed to take the hit and move on?</p>
<p>The Christian life should be lived in the light, so if there is anything going on that needs to be brought out, it should be.</p>
<p>We are the children of light! If we believe Jesus is who he says he is, we should be living as if we are already physically in a heavenly culture.</p>
<p>I was taught to reflect my Christianity with my dress. I was brought up to dress like a lady so that my conduct drew people to Christ, not my body.</p>
<p>Shouldn’t that be the standard for men like Patterson also? Shouldn’t he also be held to a higher standard like us when it comes to speech?</p>
<p>I don’t want my brother to crash and burn, but I do want to see change. I am tired of hearing stories from women who have been so hurt and wounded by men in leadership and finding out that their concerns were dismissed.</p>
<p>I don’t want them to lose faith in God and leave the church because Patterson could not keep his tongue from wagging. This causes non-believers to think we are all this way, that we are okay with demeaning our women and telling them that all they are good for is to be someone’s wife.</p>
<p>Where, pray tell, does the Bible say that?</p>
<p>From my understanding, the Apostle Paul himself had a heart change toward women after his conversion to Christianity. Before his life-changing encounter with the risen Jesus on the road to Damascus, he was killing and imprisoning Christians (men and women). In Jewish culture, women didn’t have much. We see it all over the Bible. But Jesus, our example, changed all of that!</p>
<p>After his conversion, Paul wrote in Romans 16 about many of his fellow believers. Several of whom were women. His attitude and words toward them are that of equality and friendship. He speaks of them just as Jesus would have.</p>
<p>“I commend you to Phoebe our sister, who is a servant of the church in Cenchrea, that you may receive her in the Lord in a manner worthy of the saints, and assist her in whatever business she has need of you; for indeed she has been a helper of many and of myself also.”</p>
<p>Paul goes on to encourage his brothers and sisters to be “wise in what is good, and simple concerning evil.”</p>
<p>It was not until a few years ago that I began to understand, through reading the Word, that many of our attitudes towards women are not biblical. They just aren’t in the scriptures. So why do we allow this kind of attitude to continue?</p>
<p>I don’t know if anyone has asked Patterson to refrain from these kinds of jokes. I don’t know everything. But I do know that they are hurtful, and if we don’t change and fix our eyes on Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of our faith, we will become more like the world with every passing day.</p>
<p>They will know we are Christians by our love. And that goes for me, too.</p>
<p>I have learned many lessons throughout all of this. I have learned things about friendship, trust, love, how to listen, and how to pray and show concern for both parties.</p>
<p>I have also learned that no matter who it is, and no matter what they have accomplished in the past, I need to be concerning myself with imitating Jesus. Not a man, not a woman, but Jesus alone.</p>
<p>I really didn’t want to write this, but I did because I am a writer and we don't always write about pretty things. I wrote it because I want others to know Jesus saves. He forgives. And I know that he wants us to live in unity with one another.</p>Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05660332698520474950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7313736563275987785.post-88832767076940231532018-09-18T19:34:00.001-07:002018-09-18T19:35:35.397-07:00More Minimalist Thoughts<p>So I am watching an interview of The Minimalists and the interviewer asks, "If I walked into your house right now, what would I see?"</p>
<p>One of the guys answers with "If you walked into my house right now, you wouldn't think 'Oh! A minimalist lives here!' You'd probably think whoever lives here is really tidy, because everything in my house has a purpose and a place. If it doesn't serve a purpose or bring me joy, it's not there."</p>
<p>Wow! What a concept! I am really starting to feel the effects of doing this minimalism thing, honestly. As these guys say, you will have more time for creativity and the people in your life, and boy are they right! I've been writing more than I usually do and my brain is able to actually THINK better without a bunch of stuff cluttering up my walls.</p>
<p>However, I do step back and think, 'Have I gone far enough with it?' I do still want to go into the bathroom and clean out from under the sink and the drawer that is our catch-all. It will be nice to open it and not have every item inside shift to the back or hinder it from sliding open.</p>
<p>I really hope to save money by doing this, too. Another step I am going to take is utilizing my library. It will be fun to stop by, peruse the shelves and choose a book, knowing I don't have a limited amount of money to spend on buying a new (or used) title. And, if I really like what I check out to read, I can always buy a copy. But honestly, I don't see myself doing that because most of the time I only read a book once, unless it becomes my all-time favorite (and I already own those).</p>
<p>So you see, minimalism is good to implement in so many aspects of our life. Going to the library is sort of like going to the bookstore... except your bank account doesn't diminish because of it!</p>
<p>I am ashamed to say that I started the habit of buying all of my books without even thinking that by utilizing the library I would also be helping my community stay healthy.</p>
<p>So, in my 30th year of life, I vow to spend more time reading books that others can enjoy, too. I don't need to continue the thought that I have to "own" a book in order to enjoy it. I can just read it and move on. Plus, as the Read Aloud Revival lady talks about, the sense of urgency with a book's due date will definitely help me to get through reading and get it back on time so someone else can enjoy it.</p>
<p>By having too many books, I feel pressured to read all of them at once and that is unhealthy by a reader's standards.</p>
<p>To be a better reader (and minimalist) I need to engage the free things already at my disposal, and by doing so save money that I shouldn't be spending in the first place. Every good gift is from above, and I should see God's blessing of my funds as something that should not be wasted.</p> Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05660332698520474950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7313736563275987785.post-87003319206584410202018-09-15T18:58:00.000-07:002018-09-15T18:58:07.212-07:00Thoughts of an aspiring Minimalist<p>Hello.</p>
<p>I went into an antique/craft mall today and didn't buy a thing. They had lots of nice booths and items, but I kept thinking about how easy it was to dust my bedroom this morning without having to move a bunch of STUFF to get the dust up! And my floor has been clear for a while now, which I love. I absolutely am obsessed with having bare walls and floor space. It opens up the room so that I can think without my mind feeling cluttered.</p>
<p>Another upside: I have been writing more and thinking about what I am writing more. Not to mention, doing this keeps me away from the bookstore where I spend entirely too much money on a regular basis. I haven't been there in weeks.</p>
<p>I will also be renewing my library card this week. The Read Aloud Revival podcast suggests utilizing your library instead of buying a book because if you buy it, there is no urgency to finish it in a manageable amount of time. 3 weeks is more than enough time to spend reading one volume.</p>
<p>In addition, it really makes me think: If I don't have time to spend reading a book, what am I spending my time doing?</p>
<p>Social media eats up the hours in my day, and it is NOT productive at all. In any way, really. Unless you are connecting with friends far away. Therefore, I took the app off my phone. It's just easier for me that way than having it be easily accessible, because as we all know, once you click on it and get pulled in and three hours later, it's time for bed.</p>
<p>God has really convicted me lately about how much of my time I waste. I throw it away, then think "Oh my! Where did the time go?!" Well Amy, it went down the drain because you clicked on the app! But no more... This will be hard though, I am sure.</p>
<p>I have been enjoying my paired down closet, also. It is SO much easier to have outfits you know fit and look nice close at hand. Each morning, I don't have to think about what this or that goes with, should I wear this, blah blah blah. I'd like to trim it down even more, but I'm not sure if it needs it just yet. I recommend cutting down on the items in your closet that you have not worn in a long time. Your routine will be much more simple and stress-free. I like the feeling of knowing whatever I put on I will like because I've gotten rid of the things I wasn't sure about. Imagine not having to freak out about what to wear every day! Imagine only having certain pieces that go with certain things! It really is amazing and I don't know why I didn't do this before now.</p>
<p>I guess I just got caught up in consumerism, which is okay, but once it takes over it is not a good thing. If you feel overwhelmed by the items and clothing in your home, they are not good for you... Get rid of them!</p>
<p>I spent money on lunch and a movie with a friend today and don't feel bad about it at all. I would rather spend money on things like that than items that fill up my closet that I won't wear after a while. The thrill always leaves in about two weeks time.</p>
<p>I would also like to simplify my life in certain other ways, if that makes any sense. Practicality is something I want to be better at doing.</p>Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05660332698520474950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7313736563275987785.post-51326210883315121862018-09-09T15:15:00.000-07:002018-09-15T18:06:51.532-07:00The Purge! (Round 2)<p>Well, here I am purging my closet once again. I vaguely remember telling you I was going to start doing it again. I must confess, I did ferret away a few (okay, a lot of) things that in all seriousness, I do not need anymore.</p>
<p>First, I pulled ALL the shoes out from under my bed. They were being stored in plastic boxes which take up a lot of room, so I decided to go through them and throw out what I no longer need or wear. That was hard, actually. I love shoes, as most women do, but I love being uncluttered and clear-minded even more! Plus, as I have been reading some minimalist blogs, clearing out your shoes/clothes means there are less options. Sounds scary, right? In reality, it cuts down on the time you spend deciding what to wear in the morning and all the stress that comes with it.</p>
<p>I honestly don't think most people care what you are wearing unless it is revealing, smelly, or ill-fitting. My clothes (the ones I kept) are none of those things, therefore it was more simple to pair down what was lurking in my closet. I have a few outfits that I wish I could wear every single day because I feel good and comfortable in them. You can shave down your wardrobe that much, but I don't think I am quite ready for that. I do see how buying quality pieces that go with everything will help you to be less cluttered. So, from now on, I will start thinking about what I am buying and not just slapping down the cash because I thought something was pretty. It all adds up SO MUCH in the end.</p>
<p>I looked around at all of the shoes and clothes I was getting rid of and thought (as I've read my minimalist bloggers saying) "All of this used to be money." That thought makes me cringe! How awful to know that most of the things I've never or rarely worn were once money that could be sitting nicely in my savings account?</p>
<p>This thought has definitely challenged me to THINK before I buy. It doesn't have to stress you out, but just take a moment to ask yourself "Do I NEED this? Will I wear it? It is a quality piece that will go with the other things in my closet? It is a fad item?" How you answer those questions will determine whether or not you spend or keep your hard earned money.</p>
<p>Okay, back to the shoes.</p>
<p>I realized I had "duplicates" of several things, such as tan colored shoes. I had about three pairs. One of which I never wore and that hurt too much (too tight when I bought them) so they went into the donate bag. I also have two pairs of boots, one are for hiking/winter outings, the other for everyday around town (these look good with jeans or dresses... the hiking boots? Not so much), so I kept both.</p>
<p>I have a pair of black leather flats that got me up and down on Capitol Hill in 2016 (they have sentimental value, plus they are just good, sturdy shoes that I never have to worry about developing a blister while wearing them for long periods), and a pair of fancy black/brown metallic flats for the nicer occasions. Both are great, so I kept them and threw out one other pair that I never wore.</p>
<p>I got rid of a pair of tennis shoes that I thought were adorable at the time. At the time meaning "I've been on Pinterest too much looking at fashion photos of girls in the new 90s fashion comeback). You really have to regulate how much time you spend online looking at pretty pictures of people wearing nice clothes. This marketing trick makes me want what others have, and it is truly dangerous! No laughing matter there.</p>
<p>After dealing with the shoes, I went through the drawers in my closet keeper and actually emptied one. That's where my shoes are now, so they aren't underneath the bed where I can't get to them (thanks, Rheumatoid Arthritis). I just pull out the drawer, and there they are! It is really nice to think that I only have so many shoes, so I need to wear what I have and NOT buy more, unless the ones I have are worn out and hurting me.</p>
<p>I have learned (a while back) that buying quality shoes makes your life that much better. If they hurt, it's not worth it to spend the money! Keep that in mind when perusing the shoe store. Every ad we see shows some kind of sexy heel or other shoe that makes us think we "need" that pair. How many times have I fallen victim to this? So many!</p>
<p>Remember: It is possible to go into a store and not buy anything! If you like it so much, take a picture and post it online so you can show everyone. That's actually better because then it's not sucking your money or taking up space in your home, but you can still look at it now and then.</p>
<p>I also find that once I've left the store, my "Shopper's Adrenaline" goes back to normal. I get really, REALLY excited when I walk into an antique store or the book store (it also happens around food) and I just want to buy everything that catches my eye. This is dangerous, so just take a picture and enjoy that. Works every time for me!</p>
<p>I also got rid of several old purses today that had some sentimental value. But they were just spilling out of my closet and not being used. I carried them for a few years but then they began to break down and I bought a new one, so why do I need these anymore? They served their purpose, now move on and forward. Don't let things with no emotion hold you back! No matter how you yourself feel, the objects do not have feelings, so you can't hurt them!</p>
Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05660332698520474950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7313736563275987785.post-41399098847870746582018-09-07T17:19:00.000-07:002018-09-07T17:19:01.978-07:00Peace at Home<p>Continuing what I wrote yesterday...</p>
<p>This minimalism thing really has me intrigued. The more I read about it, the more I believe it is the way to go. A large part of it involves minimizing your expenses, which I like a lot, and your closet.</p>
<p>Regarding your closet, they have you ask questions like "Do I love it? When did I wear it last? Do I need it?" and all kinds of other things. When I pull things out of mine, I realize how hard it is to actually let them go. I always worry I will need the item in the future, but the reality is, if I haven't used it by now, I probably won't ever use it.</p>
<p>Looking at money the way a minimalist does is really great. You only buy what you need, no more, no less, and don't go into debt. I feel like I have that under control (except for my student loan, of course) so that is all I have. It would be nice to see money differently, like something you hardly ever use and then only for essentials. I will keep reading up on this.</p>
<p>I was looking in my tub earlier to see if I have some unnecessary soaps, etc. I don't now, but I did a few weeks ago. I threw away the metal pole carrier that held all of my soaps and things, and now all I have is a plastic basket with holes in it. It holds everything I use on a regular basis, and I got rid of the things I never used. The basket drains water so I placed it in the tub, not on the side because I didn't want anything on the corners of the tub itself. For some reason, the clean corners makes me feel so good! I love seeing the clean surfaces.</p>
<p>Clutter must be bad for you, if I am honest. I read an article about how minimalism is Biblical, which I can agree with. It does seem right to get rid of things we don't need and not to fill our lives with the "treasures" of the world, things we are told we need to have to be happy. That fits right in with "Don't worry about what you will wear," etc, "Because your Father in heaven knows what you need, even before you ask Him." Yes, yes He does. Thank you, Lord.</p>
<p>Spiritually, it is helping me. I am not so worried about "things" anymore. I don't have to think about where to put them, how to store them, or how to use them in the future (if I ever get around to it). This frees up SO MUCH TIME to think and just... be. I do not believe the Lord meant us to be overwhelmed by worldly things. I want His peace to rule in my life and my heart, so that desire makes me throw things out because if I don't, I won't be on my way to peace with God in my own home.</p>
<p>"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can anyone of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you-you of little faith? So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." Matthew 6:25-34</p>
<p>I love Jesus so much, and I feel like that is part of the reason I want to clean out my home and the places I spend the most time.</p>
<p>More updates later.</p>
Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05660332698520474950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7313736563275987785.post-504038057056636962018-09-06T21:10:00.002-07:002018-09-06T21:10:47.560-07:00Practicing Minimalism<p>Today was my 30th birthday.</p>
<p>I don't feel any different, which is fine and good. I didn't think it would be a big deal, and it hasn't been. I spent time with my family and my new co-workers, then came home and did what I usually do. I talked on the phone with my Aunt Kim and then my best friend, Margaret. I like to hear their voices whenever I can because I love them so much.</p>
<p>Margaret and I discussed going back to landlines because we get tired of being constantly connected to the internet. Remember the days when you used to leave a message for someone if they didn't answer, then you'd wait until they called you back? That was nice and I miss it.</p>
<p>We are still in the midst of cleaning out our house. We finished painting the living room, dining room, hallway, and both bathrooms this week. Now everything matches and the creamy white color opens up the room much better. I feel refreshed and happy now. We still have some things to arrange/get rid of, but that will take some time. The better it begins to look, the more Mom and Dad want to get rid of the things we don't need anymore. I am enjoying the process immensely if I'm honest.</p>
<p>I've been reading a lot about minimalism and how it works, so that is what has inspired me to clean out and create a better space for myself in our home, and along with that I have encouraged Mom and Dad to do the same. They have done so well and I am so proud that they want to do this little journey with me. It is hard, but we are progressing.</p>
<p>I still feel like there are things I need to get rid of in my closet, so I think I will go through them tomorrow and this weekend. I cleared it out fairly well a few months ago, but a lot of things have crept back in, sadly. You think you are done, then you turn around and realize you really do have an attachment to things you never use or wear anymore. I don't want to be crazy about all of this, but it has definitely gotten to the point where I want space to just hang or set the things I truly do care about. The hardest thing to let go of has been my books. However, I recently read a post about that very thing on the Becoming Minimalist website that was a great inspiration.</p>
<p>The author said he cut down his library of books in boxes from 1000 to 100. An amazing feat! I got rid of a TON of books, and now when I think back to it, I am shocked at how many I actually had in my room. Two bookshelves full, with books in front of and on top of those on the shelf. It was bad, so I won't ever go back to that.</p>
<p>I also got rid of a lot of clothes that I don't wear anymore, or that I can't wear because I have gained weight. That is another story in itself... I keep saying "I'm working on it" but can't seem to make the weight come off. I need to try harder and be more conscious of it.</p>
<p>I feel like cleaning out the house will help me in that area. I have been able to think better with all of the clutter gone, and I am ready to move even more out. I even have posters from my teenage years that I don't want anymore, cluttering up the crevices in my closet. There are shoes I also need to get rid of. I wore the same brown sandals last summer/fall and am still wearing them this year. They are the Merrell brand so I think I will just buy the same pair again when these start to wear out (which they already have, actually).</p>
<p>If I had my way, I'd do the minimalist capsule wardrobe where you have only a certain number of high quality pieces of clothing that you wear. A winter capsule and a spring/summer capsule. I do know that sweaters take up a LOT of space, and I really need to clean out those drawers in my closet again.</p>
<p>The funny thing is, I actually like cleaning out. I get some kind of high seeing the finished product... clean closets, clean floors, walls not cluttered with things leaning against them. Is that weird? I don't think so, really.</p>
<p>Minimalism is all about collecting memories, not things, and only keeping the items you absolutely love and use on a regular basis. I have so many things I love, but only a few of them would I just die if I didn't keep them. You have to make decisions when attempting to declutter, but in the end, it is all worth it.</p>
<p>I will update later on how it is going.</p>Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05660332698520474950noreply@blogger.com0