Back in the Day

Per Judy's request, I'm going to provide a sampling of my old diary. I believe I'm about 16 at the time of this entry.
Here's a pic of it, but I'll transcribe as it's not so legible!

"I went to Newport also with my family over Memorial Day weekend. Last night, I went out with Nikki and Maren. We were in the parking lot when these two guys put there car in reverse and came to talk to us. Carston and Robert; anyway, they were in college and we told them we were seniors. They knew my friends Alex and Marian. Turns out they also knew my MOM! Surprise huh? They had a communication class together [at GCC]. Then we met two strange guys in a racecar. We thought they acted like rapists. Then there were these smokers who wanted to know what herbs we liked and if they could have a ride. NO THANX. BYE!"

Seriously, I know these toddler years are trying, but I don't think I'm ready for teenagers. Yikes. It really all was very innocent. We loved going to Burbank on 2 dollars and some change...cruising or walking from the mall movie theater to Penny Lane, and the other music store with the headphones to sample music. ("Gee, I hope they don't find out we've NEVER been paying customers here!")


And I'm not sure if it's a gift or a curse, but I do find that once someone has made a mark on this heart, they're never forgotten. All these funny stories in my journal are endearing because the people in them have shaped who I am today. I know it's cliche, but I'm grateful for everyone who has crossed my path over the years.

Beautiful

This has been one of the saddest days I've had in a really long time. My dear friend and neighbor, Pam, passed away this morning after a long and difficult battle with cancer. I've been so grateful to be a part of her life. It's amazing how much love you develop for those you serve. Going through chemo with Patrick gave me a much deeper understanding of her challenges, and seeing her strength and positive attitude as a mother has taught me to parent with purpose.

I love her children. It brings me so much joy to see them outside building sledding ramps, snow forts, bike jumps, and playing with the dogs. They have all been such wondeful neighbors to our family.

So with puffy eyes and a heavy heart, I'll call it a night. I don't know how it must be for those who believe that this life is it. My testimony that life does go on after this is by far one of my most precious blessings, and a reason that there will again be smiles and joy beyond these earthly challenges.

Twoo Love

So the little lady of the household turned 2 at the end of December. Man does it stink to have a birthday between Christmas and New Year's. I keep saying that when she's older, it'll all be made up by the fabulous New Year's parties I'll let her throw. We must do a party. Something. We did enjoy the glory of IHOP (one of her fave places, not because of the pancakes, but rather the fatty breakfast meats! She'd live on protein and candy if she could.).

Cass is this power-packed, feisty, snuggly, determined, beasty ball of joy. I love every ounce of her, and I'm so amazed at how grown-up she already is.

A few funny things she's recently said include:
Press start. (expressing her impatience with dvd previews)
Hello Luna! (looking out the car window driving at night)
I'll be Batman (pretending to play Wii)
I'm doing something. (how she explained locking dad out of her room using a stool and a bunch of toys to baracade her door)
Crackers. In a bowl. On your bed. Watching Spongebob. (a very typical, yet endearing, example of her daily demands. She's always very specific!)
Mom. Hold my booger. (how thoughtful)

xoxo