Things are trucking along down here in Augusta. Jack is enjoying his new position. I've also accepted a position down here and I like it so far - it's very different from my last employer, in some ways better in others ways worse. You know me I'm a change agent so people either love or hate me - hopefully they will learn to love me. I've met some terrific people, a couple I think I could have some in common with, even a friendship. But no permanent lunch buddy or friend to vent too yet ... I miss that. Not that I ever made friends easily to begin with, I wish I had the personality that draws people in, I don't - instead I'm a social butterfly with no flowers to play with - God will provide though. He knows I need friends down here, so I am trusting him for them.
We did finally find a house here in Augusta - You can see my Facebook page for pictures, or I'll have some up on Mylerna.com after we get settled some more. It's a great house on 5+ acres of land, but it is nothing like I thought we would get. It's like a mountain chalet... It will need some work to make it mine, unlike Mableton where it was instantly me, but its going to be terrific. It meets our needs and has tons of character, I really do love it. We close on Thursday and after a much needed interior paint job we will be moving in, probably two or three weeks.
The Mableton house needs to sale, we have seen some increased activity over the past few weeks which is good + I've turned it over to the Lord. He will bring the right buyer at the right time - I know it. Just praying his timeline is the same as mine :) A friend of ours has agreed to check in on it while we are down here, until it sales. Thank the Lord for Beth, she is a God send no doubt.
And not to jump topics completely, but what is a blog except a random mesh of thoughts ... Jack is in San Antonio until tomorrow at a conference. He seems to be enjoying himself and apparently the city is AWESOME. Maybe that can be a future vaca spot :) I'm looking forward to him being home, I've had trouble hearing him on the cell phone... so it's basically felt like 3 days w/ no contact at all... which just sucks.
Mama is down here with us now, since her cable is getting moved to the new house on Thursday. I'm glad she is here... she makes the fact Jack isn't a little less noticeable. She is my best friend and I wouldn't have it any other way - she puts up with me when I'm bitchy, whiny, plain irritable and distant. I need to do something great for her on Mother's Day... I'm getting her a gift, but I need something different, something terrific, something to really say thanks. Any ideas?
And with that I will bid you good night. I know it was a jumbled jumpy mess but hey that is where I am right now and the fact you are still reading shows you are ok with it, so thanks. Love you bunches - May God shine on your tommorrows, yours truly Mylerna
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Saturday, March 06, 2010
Howdy Folks
Well, It's been a while since my last post and alot has changes, while at the same time moving at a snails pace. God's timing is not always our timing - just have to trust that he has the best plan for us. However, I digress ... let me tell you what has been going on in La Casa Dale.
1) The Shortleaf property I spoke of in my last post fell through. There was a contingent contract already on it and they were able to remove the contingency.
2) We've exhausted all the houses in the area currently on the market with Mother-In-Law areas and have found nothing, so we are seriously considering building. Just running numbers at the moment to see if it is feasible and I'm trying not to get my hopes up too much.
3) Jack likes his job alot; though he won't admit it.
4) I have accepted a position with a local agency that appears to be a really good and positive opportunity. My current company offered me 100% telework from Augusta, but it was with the condition that if Telework went away (which is being discussed) I would be out of a job; and this agency is very comparable in pay so I think it's the right move to make. I start on the 22nd :) My last day with Wells is on the 12th and then I have a week off in between to make the transition.
5) Mama is staying in the Mableton house for now; we have a room here in the apartment but it will be a little cramped and this way that house isn't vacant. However, if it rents or sales we will cram in here until we find a space.
So alot has been going on; most of it good. I wish that things moved a little faster and that we had a house already, but my time line is God's and I trust he knows what he is doing.
On another note we tried a new restaurant this evening: Cheddars It was pretty good, but not good enough. The wait was an hour and the prices were very reasonable. However, in my mind it ranked right up there with Applebee's and if I'm going to wait an hour for something it better be Outback quality vs. Applebees... So I probably won't go back, but I am determined to try the different restaurants down here vs. slipping back into the comfyness of my old favorites - time to live a little.
Also, speaking of restaurants Augusta has Steakout every town should have one of these. It is a gift from God! I'm telling you - they deliver steak that is GOOD for the price of Outback and you don't have to leave the house! It's great; if you have one in your town order today, you will never go back !
1) The Shortleaf property I spoke of in my last post fell through. There was a contingent contract already on it and they were able to remove the contingency.
2) We've exhausted all the houses in the area currently on the market with Mother-In-Law areas and have found nothing, so we are seriously considering building. Just running numbers at the moment to see if it is feasible and I'm trying not to get my hopes up too much.
3) Jack likes his job alot; though he won't admit it.
4) I have accepted a position with a local agency that appears to be a really good and positive opportunity. My current company offered me 100% telework from Augusta, but it was with the condition that if Telework went away (which is being discussed) I would be out of a job; and this agency is very comparable in pay so I think it's the right move to make. I start on the 22nd :) My last day with Wells is on the 12th and then I have a week off in between to make the transition.
5) Mama is staying in the Mableton house for now; we have a room here in the apartment but it will be a little cramped and this way that house isn't vacant. However, if it rents or sales we will cram in here until we find a space.
So alot has been going on; most of it good. I wish that things moved a little faster and that we had a house already, but my time line is God's and I trust he knows what he is doing.
On another note we tried a new restaurant this evening: Cheddars It was pretty good, but not good enough. The wait was an hour and the prices were very reasonable. However, in my mind it ranked right up there with Applebee's and if I'm going to wait an hour for something it better be Outback quality vs. Applebees... So I probably won't go back, but I am determined to try the different restaurants down here vs. slipping back into the comfyness of my old favorites - time to live a little.
Also, speaking of restaurants Augusta has Steakout every town should have one of these. It is a gift from God! I'm telling you - they deliver steak that is GOOD for the price of Outback and you don't have to leave the house! It's great; if you have one in your town order today, you will never go back !
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Further Development
Well, today was long and productive. We looked at houses from 9:50 this morning until 5:30 this evening, but we found it:
Shortleaf Court, N. Augusta SC
The house is a perfect fit with 3 acreas and Mama's area being better than what she has now + Jack has a shop and we have tons of storage. It is a great fit and we are negotiating the price now, but I'm 99.9% sure we've got it. There is one hang up with the fact the house already has a contract on it, hoewever it's got a big contingency that their house has to sale. They have 48 hours to get rid of that contingency or it's ours :) So I'm pretty sure it's ours... It really is the perfect fit and we are getting it for $257,000! I'm so excited.
No we just have to sale or lease Madison Green. Given the price we are getting we can afford to take a little less for this house (sale wise), don't want to but it at least gives us some negotiating room.
Woot - Going to bed now, it's been a long day. Pray this goes through for us please :)
Shortleaf Court, N. Augusta SC
The house is a perfect fit with 3 acreas and Mama's area being better than what she has now + Jack has a shop and we have tons of storage. It is a great fit and we are negotiating the price now, but I'm 99.9% sure we've got it. There is one hang up with the fact the house already has a contract on it, hoewever it's got a big contingency that their house has to sale. They have 48 hours to get rid of that contingency or it's ours :) So I'm pretty sure it's ours... It really is the perfect fit and we are getting it for $257,000! I'm so excited.
No we just have to sale or lease Madison Green. Given the price we are getting we can afford to take a little less for this house (sale wise), don't want to but it at least gives us some negotiating room.
Woot - Going to bed now, it's been a long day. Pray this goes through for us please :)
Friday, January 29, 2010
Big Changes
Life is always changing, sometimes it is a pond that looks calm on the surface, sometime it's a creek that slowly meanders down hill and sometimes it's a river rushing so fast you can't begin to think you are in control. Right now our life is a river...
How fast and why you may ask?
STEP 1: I've been with my current company for three years and while it has been a tremendous learning opportunity with me being able to work on some accounts I could never have hoped to work on in a smaller agency. However, in the past year and 1/2I've been stagnet without challenge or change.. it's time to move forward; to make a change.
STEP 2: Sept 09 Jack's former company shutdown and we started TDG Solutions, Inc. with Jack doing subcontract work for various companies. His current contract is not the right fit for him... pays well but not the right fit. In the future contracts could come (lots of conversations), but nothing is guaranteed. One of the companies Jack did work for and called asking if he wanted to come work for them... the position is in Augusta and my first response was 'hell no' as was his. However, upon further discussion the position was not an IT Tech position, but rather a management position that was very appealing. It is a great opportunity for him to grow professional, it's challenging, it's for a good company and it pays well.
Combine those two items and you come to a river that we are tumbling down trying to get our footing. You know me, I like things organized and plans to be made. Yet, there is only so much I can do - > a good portion of this is a leap of faith and trusting God to guide the winds so we land where we are meant to be. So what has happened so far?
1) Jack accepted the position
2) I informed my current company of the development and hope they find me something in another division.
3) I have an interview with one company today and cold call a bunch of others just in case they don't.
4) Interview today goes really well, but I realize that I was accurate in my assumption that salaries in Augusta are NOT what they are in the ATL, but the trade off is probably worth it.
5) We found an apartment and placed a 3 mo. lease -> We move in on the 14th of Feb...
6) Tomorrow we hunt for a house in the area (I feel sorry for the real estate lady)
7) Monday we place our home on the market officially for rent / sale. If anyone knows of someone wanting to buy / rent a house let me know :) Specifications below !
There are a lot of balls in the air and I can't begin to catch them all. Life is full of choices / roads. I pray that this is correct road we are taking and that the Lord walk with us as we go and that he carry us when we need it.
We will miss our friends, but know we can stay close electronically in today's digital age. I look forward to meeting new people and exploring new roads here in Augusta - God willing we will be peaceful and happy in this little sleepy town :)
House Details:
4 Possibly 5 Bedrooms / 3.5 Bath / Formal Dining / Eat-In Kitchen / Corine Counter tops / Garbage Disposal / Dishwasher / Stainless Steal Appliances / 2 Full Kitchens / Finished Daylight basement with outside entrance - Used Currently as a Mother-In-Law Suite / Quiet Neighborhood with Sidewalks/Lights / Master Bath with Garden Tub/Free Standing Shower / Fireplace / Cable Ready / Network Cables Ran Trough Majority of House / Walk in Master Closet / Formal Living Room / Duel HVAC with seaparate controls for basement and both stories / Family Room / Study / Large Laundry Room / 2 car garage / Back Deck / Nice Landscaped Yard - Grass Cutting included in rent.
$1995 A Month = Rent
$310,000 Sale Price
How fast and why you may ask?
STEP 1: I've been with my current company for three years and while it has been a tremendous learning opportunity with me being able to work on some accounts I could never have hoped to work on in a smaller agency. However, in the past year and 1/2I've been stagnet without challenge or change.. it's time to move forward; to make a change.
STEP 2: Sept 09 Jack's former company shutdown and we started TDG Solutions, Inc. with Jack doing subcontract work for various companies. His current contract is not the right fit for him... pays well but not the right fit. In the future contracts could come (lots of conversations), but nothing is guaranteed. One of the companies Jack did work for and called asking if he wanted to come work for them... the position is in Augusta and my first response was 'hell no' as was his. However, upon further discussion the position was not an IT Tech position, but rather a management position that was very appealing. It is a great opportunity for him to grow professional, it's challenging, it's for a good company and it pays well.
Combine those two items and you come to a river that we are tumbling down trying to get our footing. You know me, I like things organized and plans to be made. Yet, there is only so much I can do - > a good portion of this is a leap of faith and trusting God to guide the winds so we land where we are meant to be. So what has happened so far?
1) Jack accepted the position
2) I informed my current company of the development and hope they find me something in another division.
3) I have an interview with one company today and cold call a bunch of others just in case they don't.
4) Interview today goes really well, but I realize that I was accurate in my assumption that salaries in Augusta are NOT what they are in the ATL, but the trade off is probably worth it.
5) We found an apartment and placed a 3 mo. lease -> We move in on the 14th of Feb...
6) Tomorrow we hunt for a house in the area (I feel sorry for the real estate lady)
7) Monday we place our home on the market officially for rent / sale. If anyone knows of someone wanting to buy / rent a house let me know :) Specifications below !
There are a lot of balls in the air and I can't begin to catch them all. Life is full of choices / roads. I pray that this is correct road we are taking and that the Lord walk with us as we go and that he carry us when we need it.
We will miss our friends, but know we can stay close electronically in today's digital age. I look forward to meeting new people and exploring new roads here in Augusta - God willing we will be peaceful and happy in this little sleepy town :)
House Details:
4 Possibly 5 Bedrooms / 3.5 Bath / Formal Dining / Eat-In Kitchen / Corine Counter tops / Garbage Disposal / Dishwasher / Stainless Steal Appliances / 2 Full Kitchens / Finished Daylight basement with outside entrance - Used Currently as a Mother-In-Law Suite / Quiet Neighborhood with Sidewalks/Lights / Master Bath with Garden Tub/Free Standing Shower / Fireplace / Cable Ready / Network Cables Ran Trough Majority of House / Walk in Master Closet / Formal Living Room / Duel HVAC with seaparate controls for basement and both stories / Family Room / Study / Large Laundry Room / 2 car garage / Back Deck / Nice Landscaped Yard - Grass Cutting included in rent.
$1995 A Month = Rent
$310,000 Sale Price
Thursday, December 31, 2009
2010 - Can't Wait
2010 I pray you are filled with joy and peace. That life will be fun and work will.... well get better - alot better. I pray my husband continues to prosper in his business and that he finds the perfect contract. I pray that we make new friends and grow in our relationships with the old ones. I pray that that my family and friends find a deeper more meaningful walk with God.
May the petty go away and the meaningful shine!
May God smile on you my friends, in 2010!
May the petty go away and the meaningful shine!
May God smile on you my friends, in 2010!
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Getting Real
Ok, peps I'm gonna get real with you. You ready....
My husband is the greatest man ever. I know I'm biased, but I was sitting here looking at pictures, thinking about our life. The ups and downs, the good and bad and realized something... This man puts up with a lot and still is here.
Let's get real, I'm not the easiest to live with... heck I'm not the easiest person to even know sometimes. I'm opinionated (about everything), strong willed, independent, and stubborn while simultaneously being whiny, bitchy, needy and helpless. Go figure that one out...
Yet this man of my life patiently deals with my flaws all the while making me feel loved and secure. I love him with everything I have and wish it was more.
There is a thing going around on Facebook at the moment that says leave one adjective describing you... I couldn't do that for Jack, one isn't enough. But here is my attempt to describe this man, my love:
Humble
Strong of Character
Ethical
Loving
Technical
Opinionated
Kind
Brilliant
Mechanical
Detail Oriented
Through
Planner
Procrastinator
Giver
Patient with Me
Geek
Calm in the Storm
Matter of Fact
Loves to Learn
Focused
Love of My Life
And asleep at them moment, which is where I'm about to be. Goodnight Blogland.
My husband is the greatest man ever. I know I'm biased, but I was sitting here looking at pictures, thinking about our life. The ups and downs, the good and bad and realized something... This man puts up with a lot and still is here.
Let's get real, I'm not the easiest to live with... heck I'm not the easiest person to even know sometimes. I'm opinionated (about everything), strong willed, independent, and stubborn while simultaneously being whiny, bitchy, needy and helpless. Go figure that one out...
Yet this man of my life patiently deals with my flaws all the while making me feel loved and secure. I love him with everything I have and wish it was more.
There is a thing going around on Facebook at the moment that says leave one adjective describing you... I couldn't do that for Jack, one isn't enough. But here is my attempt to describe this man, my love:
Humble
Strong of Character
Ethical
Loving
Technical
Opinionated
Kind
Brilliant
Mechanical
Detail Oriented
Through
Planner
Procrastinator
Giver
Patient with Me
Geek
Calm in the Storm
Matter of Fact
Loves to Learn
Focused
Love of My Life
And asleep at them moment, which is where I'm about to be. Goodnight Blogland.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Lester & Linda - My Friend - My Mentor
I believe that in everyone's life you can look back on one person who made a difference. One person helped define who you are. In mine their names were Lester & Linda. They were the Pastor's of the first church I ever stepped foot in; they were the people God put in my life at a time when I so desperately needed a calming force. They were God's plan; they were my light in the dark.
Even today Lester and Linda are one of my rocks. The unmovable force that I know when the crap hits the fan I can call. It’s good to know they are there; to know that no matter what there are two people in this world who love me for me. Who know the dark, who know me as well as I know myself and love me anyway.
These are two of the most faithful people I know... people God has used to touch more lives than I can count and today they need your prayers. Lester is having some intestinal issues and had to leave church today mid-service to go to the ER. This is a man that always plays hurt; so for him to leave a church service midway thru; the pain had to be ... well pray. He is home now and has to go back to the Dr., but I ask that you agree with me in prayer today that he will be healed of this. Isaiah 53:5 says that by his (Jesus) strips we are healed, I believing in Jesus name that Lester is going to be healed of this and ask that you agree with me in prayer.
It’s funny looking back at my history with Lester and Linda. I first met them when I was 11 or 12; they were in their early 20's at their first church as Sr. Pastors. It was a tiny church - that church became my second home. I remember thinking of them as the leaders, the "preacher teacher", the elders... They weren't but 7 or 8 years older than me... I wonder now how they did it. How they seemed so sure of themselves - ministering to others, guiding others. When I was 25 I couldn't guide someone out of the bathroom :) ... But seriously, they were where God needed them to be, and they were and still are fulfilling his purpose. I admire them for that - I love them for that.
Lester & Linda will always be my friends, but more than that they are a piece in the foundation that God has laid for my life. Not to mention some dynamite Spade players….
The last few months, since I've gotten back into church, they have been on my mind. This couple...these friends... these rocks. I miss them… I still use them as my guide, spiritually. I find myself going up there to church occasionally; to do a reality check. With Lester I can’t hide… Like God gave him special Lisa vision or something…
I'm trying to find my way back to where I once was in God - or rather to even a higher place in my walk with him- there are emotional hurdles I'm trying so hard to overcome; old haunts I am trying to forget. Don't get me wrong: My faith is firm: I love the Lord God with my heart, I believe his son Jesus Christ came and died for my sins so that I may spend eternity with him and I thank him for it.
However, I struggle in my daily walk. Those that don't know me won't understand and those that do know me may not understand. It’s hard to explain - just know that its heavy on my spirit; its heavy on my mind and I'm trusting God that he will fold me in his arms and help me to walk the path he has chosen for me. That he will help me to draw close to him and to trust him with everything; that I will once again know that unmistakable Joy that exist when you are walking with God; the light bounce in your step that you have when God is your constant companion.
If you’ve never known that Joy; if you’ve never asked Jesus to be the Lord of your life. I pray today that you will.
Lester Get Better soon. You are forbidden from scaring me like that ever again. :) Seriously I love you guys and am trusting God for your speedy recovery.
Even today Lester and Linda are one of my rocks. The unmovable force that I know when the crap hits the fan I can call. It’s good to know they are there; to know that no matter what there are two people in this world who love me for me. Who know the dark, who know me as well as I know myself and love me anyway.
These are two of the most faithful people I know... people God has used to touch more lives than I can count and today they need your prayers. Lester is having some intestinal issues and had to leave church today mid-service to go to the ER. This is a man that always plays hurt; so for him to leave a church service midway thru; the pain had to be ... well pray. He is home now and has to go back to the Dr., but I ask that you agree with me in prayer today that he will be healed of this. Isaiah 53:5 says that by his (Jesus) strips we are healed, I believing in Jesus name that Lester is going to be healed of this and ask that you agree with me in prayer.
It’s funny looking back at my history with Lester and Linda. I first met them when I was 11 or 12; they were in their early 20's at their first church as Sr. Pastors. It was a tiny church - that church became my second home. I remember thinking of them as the leaders, the "preacher teacher", the elders... They weren't but 7 or 8 years older than me... I wonder now how they did it. How they seemed so sure of themselves - ministering to others, guiding others. When I was 25 I couldn't guide someone out of the bathroom :) ... But seriously, they were where God needed them to be, and they were and still are fulfilling his purpose. I admire them for that - I love them for that.
Lester & Linda will always be my friends, but more than that they are a piece in the foundation that God has laid for my life. Not to mention some dynamite Spade players….
The last few months, since I've gotten back into church, they have been on my mind. This couple...these friends... these rocks. I miss them… I still use them as my guide, spiritually. I find myself going up there to church occasionally; to do a reality check. With Lester I can’t hide… Like God gave him special Lisa vision or something…
I'm trying to find my way back to where I once was in God - or rather to even a higher place in my walk with him- there are emotional hurdles I'm trying so hard to overcome; old haunts I am trying to forget. Don't get me wrong: My faith is firm: I love the Lord God with my heart, I believe his son Jesus Christ came and died for my sins so that I may spend eternity with him and I thank him for it.
However, I struggle in my daily walk. Those that don't know me won't understand and those that do know me may not understand. It’s hard to explain - just know that its heavy on my spirit; its heavy on my mind and I'm trusting God that he will fold me in his arms and help me to walk the path he has chosen for me. That he will help me to draw close to him and to trust him with everything; that I will once again know that unmistakable Joy that exist when you are walking with God; the light bounce in your step that you have when God is your constant companion.
If you’ve never known that Joy; if you’ve never asked Jesus to be the Lord of your life. I pray today that you will.
Lester Get Better soon. You are forbidden from scaring me like that ever again. :) Seriously I love you guys and am trusting God for your speedy recovery.
Friday, October 09, 2009
Grand Canyon - Day 7
Day 7 – Zion National Park - Vegas
October 9, 2009
We didn’t do as much today as planned. We are all running a little out of steam and have all seen as many rocks as we want to see for a while. We got up around 9 and ate the continental breakfast – my opinion of the hotel in Kanub still stands; the hotel rocks and so does the continental breakfast!
After eating we drove to Zion National Park...upon getting into the park we discovered that the scenic drive required us to get on the park shuttle. None of us were in the mood to deal with the shuttle, having to move our photography equipment every few minutes, carrying our snacks, etc... so we just saw what we could see in our car and headed home. It was majestic and we stopped to take several pictures along the way. I want to plan another trip to really see it. Today it wouldn’t have really been appreciated though – none of us were in the mood.
We then headed back to Vegas. We arrived and checked into the Comfort Inn... It’s nice but nothing like the one we checked out of last night and the planes flying overhead are loud. LOL, we didn’t want to stay on the Strip as we thought we would be getting into town so late that it wouldn’t matter. Ah well – at least it’s cheap and clean. Clean is all that really matters :) hee...
We walked down on the strip a bit and explored the strip a tiny bit. We only stayed for a bit though – now we back at the hotel and are going to get some sleep, going to take a week to catch up on my sleep. We fly out tomorrow at 1 pm (3 pm EST) ... can’t wait to see my kitties.
October 9, 2009
We didn’t do as much today as planned. We are all running a little out of steam and have all seen as many rocks as we want to see for a while. We got up around 9 and ate the continental breakfast – my opinion of the hotel in Kanub still stands; the hotel rocks and so does the continental breakfast!
After eating we drove to Zion National Park...upon getting into the park we discovered that the scenic drive required us to get on the park shuttle. None of us were in the mood to deal with the shuttle, having to move our photography equipment every few minutes, carrying our snacks, etc... so we just saw what we could see in our car and headed home. It was majestic and we stopped to take several pictures along the way. I want to plan another trip to really see it. Today it wouldn’t have really been appreciated though – none of us were in the mood.
We then headed back to Vegas. We arrived and checked into the Comfort Inn... It’s nice but nothing like the one we checked out of last night and the planes flying overhead are loud. LOL, we didn’t want to stay on the Strip as we thought we would be getting into town so late that it wouldn’t matter. Ah well – at least it’s cheap and clean. Clean is all that really matters :) hee...
We walked down on the strip a bit and explored the strip a tiny bit. We only stayed for a bit though – now we back at the hotel and are going to get some sleep, going to take a week to catch up on my sleep. We fly out tomorrow at 1 pm (3 pm EST) ... can’t wait to see my kitties.
Thursday, October 08, 2009
Grand Canyon - Day 6
Day 6 – Bryce Canyon
October 8, 2009
Today we drove a couple hours out of Kanub to Bryce Canyon. It was an enjoyable day – the views were unique and ever changing. The same scene would look completely differnet depending on the angle you looked at it from. We spent the entire day viewing the various vista’s of the park and really enjoyed it... We also saw several wild animals around the park.
The first animals were the deer standing outside the restaurant we ate at for lunch. There was a family of 4 with a new baby deer. He was so cute; he was still furry and his ears were just adorable; those brown eyes were just precious. It was alot of fun and I think i got some great pictures.
The second animal sighting was a Coyote standing in a field. It wasn’t a space we could pull over so I made Jack stop and let me out on the side of the road. It was hillarous, but I got some pictures of him. 400MM was still not enough; I’m sure I’ll have to postcrop to really see him but I can prove I saw a Coyote in the wild. She or He knew I was there; he kept looking back to see what I was going to do. I loved ever minute of it.
We also saw chipmunks. They were so cute with their tails as long as their bodies. Super Super Cute and quick!
The last animal today we saw was the Raven. These are truly beautiful birds who are smart as anything. They are bigger than I expected and their feathers when ruffled almost makes them look furry.
Overall it was nice enjoyable day. I really do hope the pictures turn out... One more day and then we fly home. We are having a great time, but I’m about ready to see my kitties.
October 8, 2009
Today we drove a couple hours out of Kanub to Bryce Canyon. It was an enjoyable day – the views were unique and ever changing. The same scene would look completely differnet depending on the angle you looked at it from. We spent the entire day viewing the various vista’s of the park and really enjoyed it... We also saw several wild animals around the park.
The first animals were the deer standing outside the restaurant we ate at for lunch. There was a family of 4 with a new baby deer. He was so cute; he was still furry and his ears were just adorable; those brown eyes were just precious. It was alot of fun and I think i got some great pictures.
The second animal sighting was a Coyote standing in a field. It wasn’t a space we could pull over so I made Jack stop and let me out on the side of the road. It was hillarous, but I got some pictures of him. 400MM was still not enough; I’m sure I’ll have to postcrop to really see him but I can prove I saw a Coyote in the wild. She or He knew I was there; he kept looking back to see what I was going to do. I loved ever minute of it.
We also saw chipmunks. They were so cute with their tails as long as their bodies. Super Super Cute and quick!
The last animal today we saw was the Raven. These are truly beautiful birds who are smart as anything. They are bigger than I expected and their feathers when ruffled almost makes them look furry.
Overall it was nice enjoyable day. I really do hope the pictures turn out... One more day and then we fly home. We are having a great time, but I’m about ready to see my kitties.
Wednesday, October 07, 2009
Grand Canyon - Day 5
Day 5 – Grand Canyon – North Rim
October 7, 2009
Well first I want to talk about temperature. We started out in Vegas - > The temperature was in the high 80’s, then we went to the South Rim and it was in the 40’s to the 60’s. You will never guess what is next... we drove to the North Rim today. When we went into the store it was 57, while we were in the diner eating it started SNOWING, we came out and it was in the low 30’s! Craziness!
Well now to tell you about the day. We left Flagstaff this morning at 9:40 and began the 5 hour drive to the North Rim. The drive was gorgeous, rocks of various landscapes jutting up from the land. The colors were vast and varied from dull beiges, grays and reds. 5 hours is normally a hard, long drive but the scenery made it absolutely wonderful. We were driving along and got to cross over the Navajo Bridge. This is a bridge that goes over the CO River and gives us absolutely beautiful views. It was neat to see the rafters floating underneath us. I can’t begin to describe the sheer beauty of this area.
We then stopped at Jacobs Lake – Not an actual lake but a little town. We ate lunch at the diner and while we were eating it began to SNOW outside. Huge white flakes; it was so neat and pretty. There were tourist there who must have never seen snow; they were running outside and getting their picture taken standing in the snow. It was cute.
We then headed into the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. This is the Canyon I expected to see when I visited the South Rim. The colors and views were breathtaking! We spent 4 or 5 hours driving the various vistas and looking at the scenery. It was the most breathtaking views... I hope the pictures turned out.
We then headed out of the Canyon toward Kanab UT. We stopped and cut the lights of the car off and looked at the stars. That far out they were breathtaking – without the city lights – you could see millions of them! It was spectacular, best light show ever.
We drove on out and into Kanab. We are staying at the Holiday Inn Express... You won’t believe it until you see the pictures, but this room is comparable to any 4 star hotel. Flat panel TV, Couch, Marble Sinks, Beautifully Decorated, Two Sitting areas... It’s amazing. Now I’m going to go to sleep in my king-size bed :) Sleep well blogland.
October 7, 2009
Well first I want to talk about temperature. We started out in Vegas - > The temperature was in the high 80’s, then we went to the South Rim and it was in the 40’s to the 60’s. You will never guess what is next... we drove to the North Rim today. When we went into the store it was 57, while we were in the diner eating it started SNOWING, we came out and it was in the low 30’s! Craziness!
Well now to tell you about the day. We left Flagstaff this morning at 9:40 and began the 5 hour drive to the North Rim. The drive was gorgeous, rocks of various landscapes jutting up from the land. The colors were vast and varied from dull beiges, grays and reds. 5 hours is normally a hard, long drive but the scenery made it absolutely wonderful. We were driving along and got to cross over the Navajo Bridge. This is a bridge that goes over the CO River and gives us absolutely beautiful views. It was neat to see the rafters floating underneath us. I can’t begin to describe the sheer beauty of this area.
We then stopped at Jacobs Lake – Not an actual lake but a little town. We ate lunch at the diner and while we were eating it began to SNOW outside. Huge white flakes; it was so neat and pretty. There were tourist there who must have never seen snow; they were running outside and getting their picture taken standing in the snow. It was cute.
We then headed into the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. This is the Canyon I expected to see when I visited the South Rim. The colors and views were breathtaking! We spent 4 or 5 hours driving the various vistas and looking at the scenery. It was the most breathtaking views... I hope the pictures turned out.
We then headed out of the Canyon toward Kanab UT. We stopped and cut the lights of the car off and looked at the stars. That far out they were breathtaking – without the city lights – you could see millions of them! It was spectacular, best light show ever.
We drove on out and into Kanab. We are staying at the Holiday Inn Express... You won’t believe it until you see the pictures, but this room is comparable to any 4 star hotel. Flat panel TV, Couch, Marble Sinks, Beautifully Decorated, Two Sitting areas... It’s amazing. Now I’m going to go to sleep in my king-size bed :) Sleep well blogland.
Grand Canyon - Day 4
Day 4 – Bottom of the Grand Canyon
October 6, 2009
I’m writing about this on the 7th as we drive...last night I was too tired. I think I was in bed by 8:45 :) Earliest I’ve been to bed in a decade, hee.
Yesterday we got an early start. We left the hotel at 7:30 am and made a stop by McDonald’s for a quick breakfast. I have learned a lesson – Waffle House does not have the worst old coffee, McDonald’s does. OMG that stuff could walk by itself – I took one sip; that was enough. The Cinamelt was great though and it was enough to sustain me for a bit...
We then drove to Williams to meet up with our Jeep Tour. We left with them at 9:00 am and drove to Seligman. Seligman is the birthplace of the Historic Route 66. Not where the road begins but where the two businessmen that petitioned Congress to make it a Historic Road were from and where the town of Radiator Springs from Cars was based on. We spent about 20 minutes here taking pictures and etc... It was neat to see; defiantly a tourist trap but neat to see.
We then headed on down to the Grand Canyon Caverns – this is a dry cavern near the Grand Canyon. The person that bought it thought he had found his retirement plan in diamonds - > what he found was Calcium Deposits that sparkled... The Cavern was really just a stopping point so they could get the jeeps ready. It wasn’t anything spectacular and it was obvious they were doing everything they could do to make a buck. But it was something to do and I can say I saw the Grand Canyon caverns.
After we finished the tour we went out and got on the Jeeps. They were bright yellow and sat 6 passengers. We sat with 3 ladies who were older and quite humorous. We then headed on to Waalpi Indian Reservation – The Indians own the only road that goes down into the Canyon and you have to pay for a permit to ride down into the Canyon – which is a reason for using a tour company; they take care of all the politics for you...
The Waalpi Indians are one of the poorest Indian Nations and it was evident from the housing we passed. Maybe it was just the section of town but it looked like government housing and most of the roads were junky... with old cars and equipment sitting in the yards. It certainly didn’t look like the best section.
After we passed through this section we got on a dirt road which would lead us into the Canyon. The ride was bumpy and exhilarating. The guide was a middle age lady who really seemed to know a lot about the area and really enjoyed her job. She stopped often to let us take pictures (she would stop anytime you asked if you wanted a particular shot). She also stopped to tell us about the different plant life and rock types that we passed; it was neat to watch the rock layers change the further we went into the Canyon. The landscape really changed too; you would expect it to be dry and lifeless, it’s the opposite. The area has natural springs that feed into the CO River and the area thrives off the water. Greenery is abundant and apparently so is the wildlife, though we really didn’t get to see too much.
It took about 2 hours and we were at the bottom of the Canyon next to the CO River. We were given our sack lunches and were told to be back at the Jeep in an hour. The three of us headed off to a secluded spot next to the River to have our picnic. It was nice to sit there and eat next to the CO River; deep in the Canyon -> an area not many people ever get to see. I put my hands in the water and washed off my face; it was cool and refreshing.
After eating I walked around a bit and snapped a few pictures. The guide showed us a Pink Rattlesnake that was curled up sleeping; it was really amazing at how well he hid among the rocks. I would have never seen him, which is just another note to how wild and dangerous the place really is.
We then got on the jeeps and headed back up the Canyon, at a much faster pace than when we came down. However we did get to stop and see wild donkeys or boroughs... one was pregnant and they came right up to our jeep to get apples. They were very skittish so you had to be quiet but it was very neat to see and feed them. You wouldn’t know they were wild if you didn’t know it... It was quite neat.
We then continued our trek to the top of the Canyon, got in the vans and headed back to Williams. About an hour and ½ drive total – long enough for a good nap.
We got back to Williams, got in the car and went to Flagstaff for a much needed shower. I had dust in places I didn’t think dust could get :) We then headed out to Garcia’s Mexican Restaurant. This is a restaurant I would highly recommend if you are ever in Flagstaff. The food was excellent, the service good and the prices reasonable. We then went back to the hotel room and simply crashed...
October 6, 2009
I’m writing about this on the 7th as we drive...last night I was too tired. I think I was in bed by 8:45 :) Earliest I’ve been to bed in a decade, hee.
Yesterday we got an early start. We left the hotel at 7:30 am and made a stop by McDonald’s for a quick breakfast. I have learned a lesson – Waffle House does not have the worst old coffee, McDonald’s does. OMG that stuff could walk by itself – I took one sip; that was enough. The Cinamelt was great though and it was enough to sustain me for a bit...
We then drove to Williams to meet up with our Jeep Tour. We left with them at 9:00 am and drove to Seligman. Seligman is the birthplace of the Historic Route 66. Not where the road begins but where the two businessmen that petitioned Congress to make it a Historic Road were from and where the town of Radiator Springs from Cars was based on. We spent about 20 minutes here taking pictures and etc... It was neat to see; defiantly a tourist trap but neat to see.
We then headed on down to the Grand Canyon Caverns – this is a dry cavern near the Grand Canyon. The person that bought it thought he had found his retirement plan in diamonds - > what he found was Calcium Deposits that sparkled... The Cavern was really just a stopping point so they could get the jeeps ready. It wasn’t anything spectacular and it was obvious they were doing everything they could do to make a buck. But it was something to do and I can say I saw the Grand Canyon caverns.
After we finished the tour we went out and got on the Jeeps. They were bright yellow and sat 6 passengers. We sat with 3 ladies who were older and quite humorous. We then headed on to Waalpi Indian Reservation – The Indians own the only road that goes down into the Canyon and you have to pay for a permit to ride down into the Canyon – which is a reason for using a tour company; they take care of all the politics for you...
The Waalpi Indians are one of the poorest Indian Nations and it was evident from the housing we passed. Maybe it was just the section of town but it looked like government housing and most of the roads were junky... with old cars and equipment sitting in the yards. It certainly didn’t look like the best section.
After we passed through this section we got on a dirt road which would lead us into the Canyon. The ride was bumpy and exhilarating. The guide was a middle age lady who really seemed to know a lot about the area and really enjoyed her job. She stopped often to let us take pictures (she would stop anytime you asked if you wanted a particular shot). She also stopped to tell us about the different plant life and rock types that we passed; it was neat to watch the rock layers change the further we went into the Canyon. The landscape really changed too; you would expect it to be dry and lifeless, it’s the opposite. The area has natural springs that feed into the CO River and the area thrives off the water. Greenery is abundant and apparently so is the wildlife, though we really didn’t get to see too much.
It took about 2 hours and we were at the bottom of the Canyon next to the CO River. We were given our sack lunches and were told to be back at the Jeep in an hour. The three of us headed off to a secluded spot next to the River to have our picnic. It was nice to sit there and eat next to the CO River; deep in the Canyon -> an area not many people ever get to see. I put my hands in the water and washed off my face; it was cool and refreshing.
After eating I walked around a bit and snapped a few pictures. The guide showed us a Pink Rattlesnake that was curled up sleeping; it was really amazing at how well he hid among the rocks. I would have never seen him, which is just another note to how wild and dangerous the place really is.
We then got on the jeeps and headed back up the Canyon, at a much faster pace than when we came down. However we did get to stop and see wild donkeys or boroughs... one was pregnant and they came right up to our jeep to get apples. They were very skittish so you had to be quiet but it was very neat to see and feed them. You wouldn’t know they were wild if you didn’t know it... It was quite neat.
We then continued our trek to the top of the Canyon, got in the vans and headed back to Williams. About an hour and ½ drive total – long enough for a good nap.
We got back to Williams, got in the car and went to Flagstaff for a much needed shower. I had dust in places I didn’t think dust could get :) We then headed out to Garcia’s Mexican Restaurant. This is a restaurant I would highly recommend if you are ever in Flagstaff. The food was excellent, the service good and the prices reasonable. We then went back to the hotel room and simply crashed...
Monday, October 05, 2009
Grand Canyon - Day 3
Day 3 – South Rim Grand Canyon & Sunset Crater Volcano
October 5, 2009
This morning we woke up around 8:30 and began to get ready. We stepped outside and realized the temperature was not as earlier predicted by the Weather Channel – It was in the 40s, brrrr. So we bundled up with what we had, went to the store and bought coats :) LOL I needed a new coat anyway.
Afterwards we grabbed breakfast at Cracker Barrel and then headed out to continue our adventure. The South Rim of the Grand Canyon was the plan. It took us about an hour and ½ to get there. We surprisingly got in free due to Mama - she got a life time pass for all federal parks. Love it!
The Canyon itself was vast and not exactly as I suspected. I expected deep colors; the vivid reds we see in the pictures. However, what while it was vast and breathtaking it wasn’t colorful. Maybe it was how high the sun was in the sky – it could have been washing them out. Photography is all about the light. It was great though and enjoyable to drive around.
We drove down Hermit Road (special again due to Mama – most have to take a public bus or hike) and stopped several times to see the sights. It was fun to see how far we could walk out; I got a picture jumping near the edge; hopefully it turns out. We had fun ...
We then went back and grabbed lunch at the Village. We then headed down Desert View Drive toward the East entrance of the park. We saw the watchtower - the wall murals inside were amazing! We then headed out... It is funny as we were leaving and were officially out of the park I saw the Canyon I expected... must have been the light or may where we were... being further away so you can appreciate the contrast... but the colors were vivid; the reds, oranges and whites popping out! It really drew me in – unfortunately it was not very safe to stop and take pictures right there...But it was beautiful and we tried to snap a few out of the window. Hopefully some of them turn out.
We then were heading back to our hotel. I had wanted to go see Sunset Crater Volcano before going to the park, but due to our shopping spree we got a late start, so I didn’t think we would get to see it. However as we were driving back to the hotel we saw the sign and seeing as how the light was still with us we took a left to see what we could see. We didn’t make it to the actual monument due to the light fading on us, however we did get to see several of the volcano’s in the area (mountains all around us) and the black lava ... the last eruption was over 700 years ago, but the lava was still there. It was just great... a wonderful surprise to be able to see it.
Then we came back to the hotel and ordered pizza. Good food – and rest. Tomorrow is the jeep tour; we have to get up and be out of here by 7:30...
Sunday, October 04, 2009
Grand Canyon Trip - End of Day 1 & Day 2
Day 1 – Las Vegas, Valley of the Fire State Park & Hoover Dam
October 3, 2009
Well, I am actually typing this on Day 2 – as we got in to late last night for me to finish the journal. However, let me just say Vegas is absolutely awesome! I have to come back for a weekend trip so we can really see it.
First we walked out of our hotel onto Fremont Street. We were waiting for the light show which happens every hour and the crowd was bad. I don’t do well in crowds and began to slightly freak – so I grabbed some alcoholic courage and knocked the edge off. After that I began to calm down and could enjoy the sights/sounds/people watching. OMG at the people – The girl in red leather chaps with nothing but black briefs under it had to be the best! But anyway – then the light show started.
They cut all the lights off on Fremont Street (that’s a lot of lights let me tell ya) and then overhead millions of lights are played to music. It is like watching 50 or 60 widescreen televisions at the same time – totally awesome. You’d have to see it.
Then we went back up int the room to drop off camera bags and make some slight changes in what we were carrying before we headed to the Strip. We didn’t get to really see it... We drove into it barely before parking at Caesar’s Palace. Caesar’s Palace is amazing! The architecture and the art work are just something to see. I can’t tell you ... We didn’t walk through all of Caesar’s Palace as it was almost 11 and we didn’t get to see the lobbies of the other buildings – but I saw enough to know I’m coming back to explore! I don’t care about the gambling – heck if I spend a $1 before I leave on gambling I’ll be surprised. However I want to see the lobbies and maybe catch a show. It is just ... well something I have to see more of!
October 4, 2009
Much of today was spent driving from Las Vegas to Flagstaff AZ where we will be bunking for the next few evenings. 5 Hour drive roughly – However we did get here in time to do a few things.
We arrived in the area around 3:30 and headed down toward Sedona planning to get to Cathedral Rock before sunset. We stopped several times to take pictures of the view – the rocks out here will amaze you. They will go from this deep sunset red to a white instantly. The sheer beauty and well strangeness of it astounds me.
As I said we stopped several times - One time was to look over Oak Creek Canyon, beautiful – however the wind will blow you away. It’s in the 50’s but the wind makes it feel like 40... It’s strong and brutal. Mama didn’t make it all the way out to the overlook of the Canyon; she went back to the warmth of the car :) However it was worth seeing and taking a picture of. Though she did get to see a bit of it when we started driving again – I wouldn’t have been able to get pics though so I’m glad we stopped.
We then headed on down to Sedona – the town looks like a tourist trap and we didn’t get to stop due to the sundown timeline... Mama had decided by this point to not do the “steep trail” as the internet tells us to go to Cathedral Rock – She said she would just wait. Boy am I glad she did – this wasn’t a trail! This was mountain climbing... easy mountain climbing but mountain climbing none the less. The elevation is higher which didn’t help any... We got about ½ up and I honestly didn’t think I could finish. I stopped after and set down... my lungs were screaming at me for air and tears were streaming down my face. Why was I crying? No clue – My body’s way of dealing with the torture I was putting it under I guess. But then Jack offered to take my camera up for me and bring me back some pictures... So I was up and going again. No way was I suffering through that for nothing...
We continued up the mountain. I’m serious there were several areas where you are putting a foot in a foot hold, grabbing something and pulling yourself up – there is no way to just walk...
We finally made it...To the top between two towering mountains and the view as out of this world amazing... The red rocks against the sky – made me think of cities. This was a place to commune with God. I know why they claim Sedona is spiritual... now I don’t buy into the metaphysical hype that surrounds the town, however this few- this spot – this quiet moment was humbling. To stand before what God has made and look over it......
We stayed until the sunset; snapping pictures – resting – chatting with a lady who lives in the area and was waiting on her daughter. The daughter was also off taking pictures; she was a bit more serious about it than we were... I was just glad I survived the trek up and praying we would survive the road down...
After the sunset we decided to quickly get off the mountain before we lost the light...We got down the worst part before the light was gone, but then the light was gone! The path markers are rock... well rock on top of rock isn’t easy to see at night. We didn’t have flash lights – stupid I know – so I started using the flash on my camera to see the way... We were lost ...meandering around hoping to spot the next trail marker. After about 30 minutes of searching, calling Mama to cut on the car lights and honk the horn... we finally made it back to the trail. Oddly enough during this entire time I wasn’t scared – maybe it was knowing we had the cell or knowing we were down the majority of it, or just knowing I survived the trip up but I was fairly calm... God is working in me that is for sure – 3 years ago I would have freaked and been ill as a hornet by time I got down off that mountain.
It was fun... it was tiring... it was worth it...I was craving steak! We left there and went to Flagstaff; checked into our hotel and went for an Outback steak! All in all things went great. We are having a good time! See you tomorrow with an update from the South Rim of the Canyon.
Grand Canyon Trip - Day 1
Day 1 – Las Vegas, Valley of the Fire State Park & Hoover Dam
October 3, 2009
Well, we landed at Los Vegas this morning at around 12:40 am Pacific Time - 3:40 EST. We are all tired and grouchy. The airport was unorganized... our baggage took forever to get to the baggage claim and we had to take a bus to get to the rental car. But we got through it all and headed to the hotel.
The lights of Vegas greeted us brightly – truly this is the city that never sleeps. By time we got to the hotel it was approaching 4:30 AM EST and I was running on fumes. We valet parked, got help with our bags from the bellboy and headed up to our adjoining room with my mother. We are staying at the Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino and I must say it is Gold... ther e is gold everywhere. The rooms are nice though – spacious and scream pampering, hee.
We didn’t look much though – just went upstairs and crashed.
The call came at 8:30 am PST (11:30 EST)- > the bank calling me back to real life. I handled that briefly and was elated to know we have an entire day ahead of us. I was still slightly tired – but excited at the same time.
We got dressed and went down into the lobby. We decided to eat at the restaurant in the lobby vs finding something once we got the car. It wasn’t the greatest food, but it was fairly affordable and we got to people watch which is always fun. Man you should see the people out here – all kinds – in all states of dress. I mean you’ve seen it before, but well there are some characters – that is for sure.
After breakfast we picked up the car and headed out – Valley of the Fire State Park here we come. The drive from here to there wa s eye opening. Vast expanses of dirt and weeds, right up next to rock/dirt mountains with no life on them. In GA there are trees and life on every mountain, not here – just risen desert really,lol.
We drove on for a ways and then stopped at the convenience store right before heading into the park. It was a biker hangout and was ...interesting. But we were able to use the facilities and get som e water which was the main objective. We then headed on into the park. The mountian ranges and odd rock formations really are quite impressive. Like red cities rising out of the ground... caves and creavaces here and there... We explored and took pictures for two or three hours and then headed back to grab some lunch before finishing our afternoon at Hoover Dam.
The drive to Hoover Dam was exciting in that we saw a Ram on the side of the road. Sadly I had my wide angle lens on so while I took a picture it wasn’t as close as I woul d have liked - > really need two cameras so I can have both lens ready ...Yea I need a raise first :)
Hoover Dam was impressive – WOW it is huge. Unfortunatley the bridge they are building behind it took away from some of the photo ops. Between the bridge construction (the bridge will look good when finished) and all the power lines (yes I know it’s a power plant)... well it just took my good photo ops away. Hee. It was impressive to see though and I think Jack enjoyed it.
We then headed back to Vegas with a Target stop on the way – Have to get some necessaities, bottle water, SUN SCREEN, MORE SUN SCREEN and chapstick. Man the wind is brutal out here on the lips... I know sit here taking a breather; putting our feet up before we hit Vegas. I’m looking forward to the pretty lights and the lobbies... Hopefully I can handle the crowds. We shall see – More to follow soon :)
October 3, 2009
Well, we landed at Los Vegas this morning at around 12:40 am Pacific Time - 3:40 EST. We are all tired and grouchy. The airport was unorganized... our baggage took forever to get to the baggage claim and we had to take a bus to get to the rental car. But we got through it all and headed to the hotel.
The lights of Vegas greeted us brightly – truly this is the city that never sleeps. By time we got to the hotel it was approaching 4:30 AM EST and I was running on fumes. We valet parked, got help with our bags from the bellboy and headed up to our adjoining room with my mother. We are staying at the Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino and I must say it is Gold... ther e is gold everywhere. The rooms are nice though – spacious and scream pampering, hee.
We didn’t look much though – just went upstairs and crashed.
The call came at 8:30 am PST (11:30 EST)- > the bank calling me back to real life. I handled that briefly and was elated to know we have an entire day ahead of us. I was still slightly tired – but excited at the same time.
We got dressed and went down into the lobby. We decided to eat at the restaurant in the lobby vs finding something once we got the car. It wasn’t the greatest food, but it was fairly affordable and we got to people watch which is always fun. Man you should see the people out here – all kinds – in all states of dress. I mean you’ve seen it before, but well there are some characters – that is for sure.
After breakfast we picked up the car and headed out – Valley of the Fire State Park here we come. The drive from here to there wa s eye opening. Vast expanses of dirt and weeds, right up next to rock/dirt mountains with no life on them. In GA there are trees and life on every mountain, not here – just risen desert really,lol.
We drove on for a ways and then stopped at the convenience store right before heading into the park. It was a biker hangout and was ...interesting. But we were able to use the facilities and get som e water which was the main objective. We then headed on into the park. The mountian ranges and odd rock formations really are quite impressive. Like red cities rising out of the ground... caves and creavaces here and there... We explored and took pictures for two or three hours and then headed back to grab some lunch before finishing our afternoon at Hoover Dam.
The drive to Hoover Dam was exciting in that we saw a Ram on the side of the road. Sadly I had my wide angle lens on so while I took a picture it wasn’t as close as I woul d have liked - > really need two cameras so I can have both lens ready ...Yea I need a raise first :)
Hoover Dam was impressive – WOW it is huge. Unfortunatley the bridge they are building behind it took away from some of the photo ops. Between the bridge construction (the bridge will look good when finished) and all the power lines (yes I know it’s a power plant)... well it just took my good photo ops away. Hee. It was impressive to see though and I think Jack enjoyed it.
We then headed back to Vegas with a Target stop on the way – Have to get some necessaities, bottle water, SUN SCREEN, MORE SUN SCREEN and chapstick. Man the wind is brutal out here on the lips... I know sit here taking a breather; putting our feet up before we hit Vegas. I’m looking forward to the pretty lights and the lobbies... Hopefully I can handle the crowds. We shall see – More to follow soon :)
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Here We Are
Life... God... Faith... Love ... Marriage....Business... All are intertwined and connected.
I came home from an outside wedding last night; those of you in GA will know it poured down. After the floods occurring this past week all we needed was more rain. However, despite the rain the wedding was gorgeous. It was under a tent with mud all round. It was a cowboy wedding and they do what they do; threw some hay down, put on boots and kept on trucking. Man this says something in itself doesn't it? (That's a blog for another day)
But anyway I digress... we came home and I wanted to dance; we didn't really dance at the wedding (read mud above), but I wanted to. So my husband being the man that he is danced with me. We danced and as we were doing a funky version of the Waltz (you do what you can in the space you are given) I thought about life. I thought back on our wedding day and the promise we made to go forth as one person. I thought to myself yep, its him and me against the world.
But, I was wrong and was quickly reminded spiritually of how wrong I was. Its not me and Jack against anything... Its God, Jack and Myself enjoying life together; learning together; growing together. Will there come tough times? Will there be moments where we feel like we are beating our head against a wall? Will we do better at the "learning" some days than others?
Sure - that's life and human nature. Heck we've already learned some valuable lessons in starting this company. There is a learning curve with any new venture. But at the end of the day we are here, we are strong and God is with us. Nothing else matters.
On another similar but separate topic: I've been trying over the past few weeks to make a life style change. I've been trying to approach life from the standpoint of looking at our blessings vs. the negative around us. To thank God for what we have. You know what I've found???? You ready... It's an earth shattering discovery!!! I'm serious hang on to your hats people....
Happy, Grateful Thoughts and Outlook = Better, More Joyful days = Makes it easier to be happy and grateful. It's a circular logic that works!
God's blessings are many, but by only focusing on the negative I am forgetting him and his gifts. How am I going to get closer to God if I can't appreciate what he has given me?
Now do I succeed every day? No! Do I try everyday? Yes. (Sometimes its a Fake it till I make it day). I'm not perfect and life style changes are hard. If they weren't everyone would do it. But I'm trying to be more positive, to not complain as much, but instead find the good in the things around me!
Anyone want to try it with me? Trust me when I say, when you take time to Thank God for the blessings and to try to walk with a mindset of "I'm grateful for this day" everything else just doesn't seem that bad. Your day will be better....
Sleep well Blogland. May your tomorrow be bright with the many blessings God has for you.
I came home from an outside wedding last night; those of you in GA will know it poured down. After the floods occurring this past week all we needed was more rain. However, despite the rain the wedding was gorgeous. It was under a tent with mud all round. It was a cowboy wedding and they do what they do; threw some hay down, put on boots and kept on trucking. Man this says something in itself doesn't it? (That's a blog for another day)
But anyway I digress... we came home and I wanted to dance; we didn't really dance at the wedding (read mud above), but I wanted to. So my husband being the man that he is danced with me. We danced and as we were doing a funky version of the Waltz (you do what you can in the space you are given) I thought about life. I thought back on our wedding day and the promise we made to go forth as one person. I thought to myself yep, its him and me against the world.
But, I was wrong and was quickly reminded spiritually of how wrong I was. Its not me and Jack against anything... Its God, Jack and Myself enjoying life together; learning together; growing together. Will there come tough times? Will there be moments where we feel like we are beating our head against a wall? Will we do better at the "learning" some days than others?
Sure - that's life and human nature. Heck we've already learned some valuable lessons in starting this company. There is a learning curve with any new venture. But at the end of the day we are here, we are strong and God is with us. Nothing else matters.
On another similar but separate topic: I've been trying over the past few weeks to make a life style change. I've been trying to approach life from the standpoint of looking at our blessings vs. the negative around us. To thank God for what we have. You know what I've found???? You ready... It's an earth shattering discovery!!! I'm serious hang on to your hats people....
Happy, Grateful Thoughts and Outlook = Better, More Joyful days = Makes it easier to be happy and grateful. It's a circular logic that works!
God's blessings are many, but by only focusing on the negative I am forgetting him and his gifts. How am I going to get closer to God if I can't appreciate what he has given me?
Now do I succeed every day? No! Do I try everyday? Yes. (Sometimes its a Fake it till I make it day). I'm not perfect and life style changes are hard. If they weren't everyone would do it. But I'm trying to be more positive, to not complain as much, but instead find the good in the things around me!
Anyone want to try it with me? Trust me when I say, when you take time to Thank God for the blessings and to try to walk with a mindset of "I'm grateful for this day" everything else just doesn't seem that bad. Your day will be better....
Sleep well Blogland. May your tomorrow be bright with the many blessings God has for you.
Life Is Love and Love is Life
Loving our many blessings this day and trusting God with our tomorrows.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Today - A Flurry of Activity
I'm sitting here, breathing! Just breathing - Taking a much needed minute to decompress. What better way than to chat with my online world ?
I've been home from work for a while, but the evening has flown by. Jack's job of 8 years ends tomorrow. We've known it's been coming for a while and have been trying to prepare, but honestly how does one prepare ? In this economy being out of a job is a scary thought. However, we are blessed and God has us in his hands.
Jack has accepted a short term contract which begins Wednesday morning. It requires him to be out of town for the next 2 weeks (home on weekends) and then he will work from home for the remainder of it. Afterwards he has a long term deal that he is discussing... It will be consulting with 75% travel. I don't want him to travel, but honestly it is a good opportunity so please pray that if it is in God's will it will come to fruition. The money is good and the opportunity sounds even better...
In the meantime we are hastily trying to get things ready here. Cloths for an extended trip, setting up a corporation, insurance, accounting, etc... None of it is a big deal, but you add it all up and it's a lot. Plus we still don't have a company name - A LITTLE HELP WITH THIS IS APPRECIATED.
Speaking of which I still have a ton to do so I guess I'll get off and go do them. Keep us in your prayers. Good Night Blogland!
I've been home from work for a while, but the evening has flown by. Jack's job of 8 years ends tomorrow. We've known it's been coming for a while and have been trying to prepare, but honestly how does one prepare ? In this economy being out of a job is a scary thought. However, we are blessed and God has us in his hands.
Jack has accepted a short term contract which begins Wednesday morning. It requires him to be out of town for the next 2 weeks (home on weekends) and then he will work from home for the remainder of it. Afterwards he has a long term deal that he is discussing... It will be consulting with 75% travel. I don't want him to travel, but honestly it is a good opportunity so please pray that if it is in God's will it will come to fruition. The money is good and the opportunity sounds even better...
In the meantime we are hastily trying to get things ready here. Cloths for an extended trip, setting up a corporation, insurance, accounting, etc... None of it is a big deal, but you add it all up and it's a lot. Plus we still don't have a company name - A LITTLE HELP WITH THIS IS APPRECIATED.
Speaking of which I still have a ton to do so I guess I'll get off and go do them. Keep us in your prayers. Good Night Blogland!
Wednesday, September 09, 2009
Needless Worry
Did you know that worry in itself is pointless? Worrying won't change anything! All it will do will add unhealthy stress and fatigue into your life. Why won't it change anything, because worrying isn't an action... it is a state of mind.
You know what else? God the Father knows our needs... He knows my needs... He knows the needs of the man down the street, and the little girl next door. And guess what - God will supply. He may not supply in the way you thought he should, but he will supply in the way that is best for you according to his will.
Matthew 6:32-34 says "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."
Thus, today in our time of worry and stress. Let's lay it at his alter and seek him earnestly instead for He is worthy.
Now you may ask - Why is Mylerna sharing this today? Well, honestly I don't know. I felt I should. The past few days I've been in a "funk".. A personal oasis of depression and self loathing. Why??? Because I was - no other reason, no trigger... Just the way it was. You know what though - I have God who knows my needs. I have a God that gave me friends and relationships... people that reached out and said hey, its ok... You are loved. God knows your needs - he knows my needs and I thank him for it.
May God Bless You in the days to come. Lay your worries down at his alter; he has you in his hand, he knows you and he loves you.
You know what else? God the Father knows our needs... He knows my needs... He knows the needs of the man down the street, and the little girl next door. And guess what - God will supply. He may not supply in the way you thought he should, but he will supply in the way that is best for you according to his will.
Matthew 6:32-34 says "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."
Thus, today in our time of worry and stress. Let's lay it at his alter and seek him earnestly instead for He is worthy.
Now you may ask - Why is Mylerna sharing this today? Well, honestly I don't know. I felt I should. The past few days I've been in a "funk".. A personal oasis of depression and self loathing. Why??? Because I was - no other reason, no trigger... Just the way it was. You know what though - I have God who knows my needs. I have a God that gave me friends and relationships... people that reached out and said hey, its ok... You are loved. God knows your needs - he knows my needs and I thank him for it.
May God Bless You in the days to come. Lay your worries down at his alter; he has you in his hand, he knows you and he loves you.
Friday, September 04, 2009
Time for Random
I feel very random today- various things going on in my mind, it's hard to pin it down to just one item... so I'm going to just let it flow out, you ok with that? I hope so... cause here goes:
1) Homecoming at Mableton Assembly of God is this Sunday beginning at 11 am. Everyone is invited so if you are within driving distance please check it out. Should be fun...
2) We decorated the church tonight for homecoming - well really they decorated - I followed instructions and took pictures, hee. Gina and Beth are a hoot :) I learned a few things from tonight:
4) I'm cheating tomorrow at the grill out - Jim'N Nicks is cooking :) weeee Yea I know I'm totally lazy
5) Must clean ...
6) I have really no good feel for how many people will be here tomorrow - talk about a first. Me flying by the seat of my pants on an event at my house? I know you are all shocked - I am
On a more serious note... that deserves more than a bullet point Jack and I have started a study of God's word - together. I can't tell you how much the aspect of studying God's word with my hubby elates me :) But anyway... We are starting with Genesis and reading the old testament first. I ordered "The Wycliffe Bible Commentary" to help us with our study. I'm loving it... it really helps... I'm enjoying digging in and really learning God's word vs. just reading it... I've read a good portion in the past (pieces here and there) but to dig in... Yea I'm looking forward to this journey :) If you ever decide to do a study yourself I highly recommend he Wycliffe Bible Commentary to help you in your study - Granted I'm only in Genesis with the commentary but I love it...
Quote of the day: "The word of God is full of living power. It is sharper than the sharpest knife" Hebrews 4:12
1) Homecoming at Mableton Assembly of God is this Sunday beginning at 11 am. Everyone is invited so if you are within driving distance please check it out. Should be fun...
2) We decorated the church tonight for homecoming - well really they decorated - I followed instructions and took pictures, hee. Gina and Beth are a hoot :) I learned a few things from tonight:
- Beth & Gina are fun gals
- I like green butterflies
- 116 pictures of decorating a fellowship hall is a little insane
- Me and this camera have to have a conversation...
- I need to get used to all the new settings/features
- I need to learn how to shoot manual more
- I need to realize I'm not miss artsy and just take the picture
- I need to figure out how to tell it where to focus while in CA mode - I like CA mode
- I want another lens that allows me to blur the background more (wide angel)
- But you know what? I'm had a good time shooting 116 bad pictures :)
4) I'm cheating tomorrow at the grill out - Jim'N Nicks is cooking :) weeee Yea I know I'm totally lazy
5) Must clean ...
6) I have really no good feel for how many people will be here tomorrow - talk about a first. Me flying by the seat of my pants on an event at my house? I know you are all shocked - I am
On a more serious note... that deserves more than a bullet point Jack and I have started a study of God's word - together. I can't tell you how much the aspect of studying God's word with my hubby elates me :) But anyway... We are starting with Genesis and reading the old testament first. I ordered "The Wycliffe Bible Commentary" to help us with our study. I'm loving it... it really helps... I'm enjoying digging in and really learning God's word vs. just reading it... I've read a good portion in the past (pieces here and there) but to dig in... Yea I'm looking forward to this journey :) If you ever decide to do a study yourself I highly recommend he Wycliffe Bible Commentary to help you in your study - Granted I'm only in Genesis with the commentary but I love it...
Quote of the day: "The word of God is full of living power. It is sharper than the sharpest knife" Hebrews 4:12
Wednesday, September 02, 2009
People Read this Thing?
As many of you know I've started attending a new church and I took some pictures of the Sunday night fellowship. I wanted to share them, so I threw the link out on facebook as I normally do. What I realized later is that gave the people at the church my website address (which not only houses the pictures I wanted to share but this blog), heck I think even gave it out a couple times Sunday night when talking about photography. I love photography, have I mentioned that?
Anyway, this blog is an opening - its my way of sharing my life, my thoughts, my dreams, my daily life with the world... interested or not. I've never really had people in my day to day life read it though. I had several people come up to me today at church and make comments about the blog and my photography. It was .. humbling and scary. Made me think - what did I say again? Oh goodness... But you know what? I'm glad someone in my life is reading ... I'm glad someone is taking a look at the pictures. Maybe, hopefully something I say or do will help them learn from my mistakes, will help them in their daily walk. Maybe my photography will bring them a moment of joy... maybe.
So keep reading folks and I'll keep sharing :)
One other note: the minister tonight mentioned a church needing to meet the needs of it's people. He stated that in today's time people are looking for friendships. He's right - we are so busy with work and life that not many people have true friends anymore. We have people we know and people we talk to, but not many true friends. I know personally Jack and I have very few, we count ourselves lucky to have them, but one of the things I was looking for when finding a church, whether I knew it or not, was a church family. A network of friendships; some connection that went beyond Sunday... Amazing how God knows what we need before we do :)
Here is to nurturing old friendships and making new ones. May God bless each of you in your relationships, whether new or old...
So with that I'll call it a night. May God bless you in the days to come.
Quote of the Day: Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of one’s friend springs from his earnest counsel. (Proverbs 27.9, NIV)
Anyway, this blog is an opening - its my way of sharing my life, my thoughts, my dreams, my daily life with the world... interested or not. I've never really had people in my day to day life read it though. I had several people come up to me today at church and make comments about the blog and my photography. It was .. humbling and scary. Made me think - what did I say again? Oh goodness... But you know what? I'm glad someone in my life is reading ... I'm glad someone is taking a look at the pictures. Maybe, hopefully something I say or do will help them learn from my mistakes, will help them in their daily walk. Maybe my photography will bring them a moment of joy... maybe.
So keep reading folks and I'll keep sharing :)
One other note: the minister tonight mentioned a church needing to meet the needs of it's people. He stated that in today's time people are looking for friendships. He's right - we are so busy with work and life that not many people have true friends anymore. We have people we know and people we talk to, but not many true friends. I know personally Jack and I have very few, we count ourselves lucky to have them, but one of the things I was looking for when finding a church, whether I knew it or not, was a church family. A network of friendships; some connection that went beyond Sunday... Amazing how God knows what we need before we do :)
Here is to nurturing old friendships and making new ones. May God bless each of you in your relationships, whether new or old...
So with that I'll call it a night. May God bless you in the days to come.
Quote of the Day: Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of one’s friend springs from his earnest counsel. (Proverbs 27.9, NIV)
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