Change of Scenery Journal #6

My outlook today...Excited for a change of scenery. I'm ready to get out of the snow, walk along the boardwalk at Redondo, and see some old friends.

On my mind today...gifts for the coming year. After realizing the fulfilling nature of making gifts for those I love with my own hands, I intend to make all birthday and Christmas gifts in 2010. Already, the first birthday gift for Gayle is in the works. I'm planning and having a great time contemplating the hours of love that will go into each gift. I guess my empty nest state has a few perks.

What's cooking in my kitchen...Of course I'll make bread today, since it's Monday. I'm also going to make a big pot of split pea soup and a nice green salad. For family night, I think I'll make a peach pie with the bottle of peaches Emily gave me. I've been saving them for just such a purpose, and it's my last chance to cook something nice for Jason for a bit.

Prayer requests for the week ahead...Since we'll be traveling through scary winter places this week-end, we'll need a few prayers in our behalf for safety and clear roads.

My appearance today...I'm at my bed/desk in my grey knit jammies. After I'm done here, I'll exercise in front of the TV and get ready for my day. Today I'm planning on my pastel pink pullover, white blouse, and navy pleated skirt.

Exercise goals for the week...If the ice melts, I'll walk. If not I'll get out my DVD of the Firm. Last fall I got a DVD of one of their old classics. I loved the way I looked and felt, when I used these in the 90s. However, I was a lot younger then with so much more endurance.

My reading this week…Herbal Home Health Care by Christopher, LMU reading list from my side bar, Western Civilization, Great Books list from my sidebar. BTW last week I took a test in my herbal studies with a time limit of 30 min. I finished in 1 min. 36 seconds with 100%.

A Scripture passage I am memorizing/meditating on..."And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat." Genesis 1:29

Home making tasks this week...I'll do a general cleanup and packing.

Something new to try...I've decided to use my paper journal as a sort of scrapbook. In addition to writing about my life and studies, drawing nature journal entries, maps, and science diagrams, I'll paste my favorite snapshots. It's been a lot of fun this week.

My week is looking...busy as we prepare for the coming few months.

Creative projects I'm working on...If I can fit it in--hopefully, sew Gayle's birthday dress. I would like to drop it off to her on Friday on our way through, which is a couple days before her birthday.

God has been teaching me...joy. Over the years, I've learned to be flexible, relieving so much stress. I find joy in the little surprises He brings my way instead of feeling frustration at not having everything perfectly lined up in advance.

For devotions...I'm pleased at moving into the Old Testament again. I love to read about all the women in this book and the historical significance is rather thrilling. However, learning to see God's hand in all things has been the real message in years past. Only time will tell what I glean from it this year.

A simple pleasure...the amazing shapes created by the sun melting the south side of tall snow drifts.

Commitment to loveliness...1) making sure the house is in good order before my departure 2) find a free down loadable violin piece to work on this month 3) mani/pedi 4) commit 30 min. each violin and piano except while traveling 5) journal every day

Pictures to share…none this week. My little computer, where I download and store all my pics is ailing. Because it's still under warranty, a new power cord will be sent. But it could take awhile.