Intentional Boldness to Care

I just shared with a friend that in my current life stage, I am taking small steps to invest boldly in the lives of people available to me, time permiting. For instance, in response to a friend's openness to share a little life along the way with me, I am taking time to take a longer look at what is meaningful to her, as well as practicing good listening in pursuit of understanding. Then when a friend talks about what is meaningful, I'll have a better perspective and perhaps a brighter on-ramp to true community.

I noticed a short while ago how I was chasing people who were not really available to me at this time, though wonderful people. It felt frustrating. Tiring. The thought finally hit me, "Why? Take another look around and see who is near you, and find the value in them. Be intentional and see what God has in store. That's all. It's simple." So, I'm investigating that. It's fun. And freeing. No strings. No promises. Just seeing what's up ahead with others on my path.

I think when Jesus went to Zack's house, he modeled that. The simplicity of being together. Powerful, really. I'll see what God brings to mind as far as how this will look. Jesus invited all the time. Invited people to follow. To be together with him. Not tricky, but in our busy lives without enough margin, it can be missed. I don't want to miss being with others or being with Jesus in others.

Obama Nobel Peace Sur-prize

Included in the crowd of people who are surprised that Obama got a Nobel Peace Prize is President Obama himself. In his comments, he noted that he feels he does not deserve the award, so again, many are together on that -- including Mr. President. In his own words:

"This morning, Michelle and I awoke to some surprising and humbling news. At 6 a.m., we received word that I'd been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for 2009.

To be honest, I do not feel that I deserve to be in the company of so many of the transformative figures who've been honored by this prize -- men and women who've inspired me and inspired the entire world through their courageous pursuit of peace.

But I also know that throughout history the Nobel Peace Prize has not just been used to honor specific achievement; it's also been used as a means to give momentum to a set of causes."

I appreciate his candor and perspective. I learned more about the Nobel Peace Prize, as I thought it was just for achievement. I have been thinking deeply lately about how our culture values doing more than being and how that impacts my life, so this seemed another timely lesson for me. I am also learning in new ways how to think deeply about issues and care authentically for people. I am listening to opinions from great people -- friends -- who see things differently from me. I am learning the broader lessons of living in community and loving unconditionally.

I live in the tension between expectations, obligations, and traditions and in the transforming light of grace, mercy, kindness, love, and healthy boundaries. Now there is a delicate dance! And I've never been a very good dancer. I am discovering a bunch of friends who don't mind disagreement because we grant one another dignity. How blessed to be amidst those kind of folks! We pause to take the time to understand the view of one another, and then walk forward on the common ground side by side.

"We can't allow the differences between peoples to define the way that we see one another, and that's why we must pursue a new beginning among people of different faiths and races and religions; one based upon mutual interest and mutual respect." - B. Obama

Mutual interest. Mutual respect.

Life & Career Paths

Today, I was reflecting on my varied vocational experiences and perspective, having worked in the business world until I was 35, then doing a career shift to education. I have taught in private Christian school (gr. 4 & 5), public school (middle school), served a long year as an assistant principal, worked on a district project as a consultant, served as a district liaison supporting homeless children, and now serve public charter homeschool families in Los Angeles county (gr.K-12). I headed into education to teach high school social studies, and student-taught Sociology and Econ at a high school in rural Indiana. Some people recommend a point A to point B career path. I prefer the scenic route.

Lessons from My Dogs

I love my dogs. I am so happy to have two. They enrich my life, grow my capacity to look out for someone else, provide good company, listen to me, show unconditional positive regard, lower my blood pressure, release stress, make me laugh, show me sensitivity, and help me live longer. In addition to all that, here are the lessons I've learned and why I admire them and their authentic, honest lives:

10 Lessons My Dogs Taught Me

1. Work hard to get things done.
2. Know how to get what you need.
3. Please the good people.
4. Enjoy praise from good people.
5. Drink enough water.
6. Get enough exercise so you don't cause trouble.
7. Exercise is fun.
8. Get enough rest.
9. Be intentional about hanging out with people you love while you can.
10. Laugh with your tail. Well, maybe 'show it when you are happy' would be more suitable.

Oh, and they don't need to own much to be happy. I like that, too.

The Shower - Traditions of American Women

Let me just confess...I don't like going to showers -- wedding or baby. I usually do not like the games, though I'm a big fan of squishing a chunk of new bubble gum into a baby shape. I'm kind of a champion at that. Sitting around and watching someone open many gifts, passing them around a big circle, and small talk just feels like a waste of time when I could be reading outside at home. And picking out a gift -- that can be tough for me, too. We never seem to have enough money to spend $20 on gifts for these occasions, and $20 is not very generous as things go. That carries its own social pressures. Along with that, there are certain expectations on how to dress, maybe originating from my mother's proper training. Again, we have a very limited budget. I have very basic clothes and functional shoes. No frilly, feminine fun sun dresses and flirty sandals. I often feel slightly out of place. So, for the most part, I'd just prefer to be busy and skip the event.

My own wedding shower was awkward. I didn't like sitting in the central place, while everyone watched me open things and express thanks sincerely a million different ways, hoping --as the wrapping paper came off, hoping that it would truly be something for which I'd feel thankful for getting. It was fun in the end, once the presents part was over. We did not have kids, so I never had to endure a baby shower on my behalf. No regrets.

A few months ago, my perspective shifted. I said yes to attend a baby shower. I didn't really know the pregnant young woman. However, and here is where the shift began, I am friends with the soon-to-be-grandmother and great aunt. I was excited to be in on this life-changing time for my friends. Now my friends are no longer the ones having the babies, but the loved ones of the moms-to-be. It is a treasure to share in these meaningful moments and milestones of life. My perspective has shifted.

So, I went to this shower, not completely convinced it was my ideal way to spend an afternoon, but this host always throws a great party. I did have a good time. The home was crowded with all kinds of women. There was no shortage of conversation, hugs, and smiles.

Here are some highlights that were enjoyable to me:

1. The power of traditions of women: With a bachelor's degree and a heart for sociology, I still relate to life from a sociological view. I enjoy observing people interacting in groups. We live in a fast-paced culture and have lost much of the values of living in small communities or tribes. A "shower" marks a milestone for the tribe, the community -- the multiple generations of women connected to the soon-to-arrive child. That impresses me and is touching. I watched several age layers of women interact and share stories and good wishes. An afternoon of generational generosity. A pause in busy lives to connect, and love, and pass along wisdom. Powerful. Rare.
   
2. Women of history honored: The mom-to-be is expecting a girl. So, at each place setting, there was a brief bio of famous women in history with a photo of the woman. This tribute was printed on vellum and attached to colorful card stock with a gingham ribbon. Classy. I enjoyed reading about women in history who accomplished things that made life better. It lifted my thoughts and reminded me to encourage women to live lives of meaningful contribution. [No female entertainers were represented.]
3. The mixer game: We were handed a piece of paper with random statements, each statement was true for someone in attendance. We walked around to discover who matched what statement, and that process triggered great little conversations. I had the chance to have a conversation with women who bring value because of what they know and their life's experiences. I want to seek out more of the stories of oldest generation next time I'm in a situation like this. I met some awesome women.
4. Sharing the wisdom of women: We each got a white note card. We were invited to write out some wisdom and encouragement for the new mom. I've never been a mom, but that made no difference. I was a child and remember things my mom did that were meaningful. I have been a teacher for many children and know things that encourage security and value of learning. I am always learning lessons on caring for others, even if not as a mom. For instance, cleaning can wait -- time with loved ones does not. Also, read together frequently, if not every night at bedtime, and let your child see you reading, too.
   
5. All the tiny pink stuff: Could it ever get any cuter? All those tiny little pink things for the new baby girl soon to join the world. Pink is one of my favorite colors. This was pink heaven.
   
6. All the tools: How in the world did anyone in my generation survived childhood? No car seats. Being bathed in the sink. Our moms got by without the gadgets, tools, specialty items, and gimmicks. And consumed a lot less. I was struck at the volume of consumer products this precious event and raising children has "given birth to," another piece of how our nation's economy is supported by what we consume (and often do not need). Crazy stuff is now for sale to "help" you raise your baby. For instance, one gift was a cup designed to rinse a baby's head designed to prevents water from going in the baby's face. Really? Do you need a tool for this? Enough to spend money on it? And can the less fortunate (economically) raise their children right without owning all this stuff?
   
7. The name tags: Each name tag stated how the person was connected to the mom-to-be. That was interesting and an easy way to know more about others, see how the group connected, and start conversations with strangers.
8. The tablecloths and centerpieces: Each table had a square of fabric in baby prints and designs in the nursery theme the mom had planned. The centerpieces were potted flowers with items (tub toys, little decorative things, etc.) stuck in the pots for a little added design, theme, fun, and sparkle -- the mom could use those items later . The room looked so festive and nice!

I did have fun at the shower. I might go to the next one I'm invited to, also.

Cry If You Want To...

Great song! There are days, or times, or seasons when I could be this kind of friend and let someone...CRY IF YOU WANT TO (By Holly Cole). Here are the lyrics:

Cry if you want
I wont tell you not to
I won’t try to cheer you up
Ill just be here if you want me

It’s no use in keeping a stiff upper lip
You can weep you can sleep you can loosen your grip
You can frown you can drown and go down with the ship
You cry if you want to
Don’t ever apologize venting your pain
Its something to me you don’t need to explain
I don’t need to know why
I don’t think it’s insane
You can cry if you want to

The windows are closed
The neighbors aren’t home
If it’s better with me than to do it alone
Ills draw all the curtains and unplug the phone
You can cry if you want

You can stare at the ceiling and tear at your hair
Swallow your feelings and stager and swear
You could show things and throw things and I wouldn’t care
You can cry if you want to

I won’t make fun of you
I won’t tell any one
I won’t analyze what you do or you should have done
I won’t advise you to go and have fun
You can cry if you want to

Well it’s empty and ugly and terribly sad
I can’t feel what you feel but I no it feel bad
I no that its real and it makes you so mad
You could cry

Cry if you want to I won’t tell you not to
I won’t try and cheer you up
Ill just be here if you want me; to be
Near you

There is a great scene in "Lars and the Real Girl," where church folk serve as simply "sitters." After a tragedy, they come to Lars home day after day and just sit with him. I think that is powerful. No words needed. Just the flesh and blood company of quiet people who care to physically remind someone they are not alone. Must be a huge comfort. If the church had a sitting committee, I'd serve.

Part I: God & Public Schools - A Theological/Philosophical Landmine

What in the world is going on? Who created this confusion and chaos? Any guesses???

There is such division on this topic and the most hostility comes from believers. How winning for Christ can that possibly be???

My background as a person and an educator: I have taught in private Christian schools. I have taught in a public middle school. I work with a public charter school that only offers homeschooling. I have degrees from a private Christian college, a large state university, and a faith-affiliated private university. I have been an assistant principal at a public middle school. I am a follower of Christ, learning to love God and my neighbor as myself. I tend to vote for the Democratic candidate because I often agree with more of the platform positions as stated at the time of the election, though I am a registered "independent" voter. I would say I am politically "liberal," if you know the true definition of the term in political perspective. I also studied the meaning of separation of church and state in graduate school, and feel I have a clear understanding of what the purpose is and how to navigate those waters. And I support it and feel it is for the good of all. It is misunderstood on a daily basis by some, I am learning.

Someone told me last week, an acquaintance with a New Age view of life, looking for a homeschool option, that she has seen all sorts of things on the web for Christians to do to cheat the public charter schools -- get their cake and eat it, too -- take the public funds but still do things in a way that a public school can't endorse?? Is that ethical? There is a fine middle ground, which hopefully, I'll get to later. In the meantime, I have some other things to say. Stay tuned. Right now, I have to get back to work for the public charter school.

As a teaser, here is something I saw on http://www.exploringhomeschooling.com/

"Avoid government homeschooling programs such as "charter schools" and public school independent study programs. These government programs usurp the father’s God-given headship over the family and focus the homeschool on humanist goals and curriculum."

I need more information. This has not been my experience. More later....

College Tension

Things are really changing right now in the world. I've been re-evaluating my views on "College for all." So, I'm processing that and weighing the tension in various perspectives.

As an educator, I am well aware of the statistics on getting a bachelor's degree. Graduates tend to earn a more livable wage over time, are better able to get work that can help sustain support for a family, and moves a person ahead of so many others in competing for a job. And those facts are true no matter what the degree. I also know it is easiest and cheapest to complete a degree as soon as one can. Life adds other responsibilities as time passes that make going to school more complicated.

The college experiences broadens a person. It affords the opportunity to work with a wild variety of other people and ideas, process assignments independently to finish within a time limit, and to think deeply about many things, while giving a person more time to mature and become responsible. If circumstances set-up in such a way that the door to a college degree opens, it is a privilege to walk through that door.

All that said, I do not think God works in ways that make complete sense in the world of human (and American) logic. We are simply called to love God and others. We are equipped with gifts to build the body of Christ. So, I honestly no longer see college as the key to success for all, especially in Kingdom living.

I believe it is good to be careful with our limited resources of time and money, in order to focus on what God has for us today. I wish determining big things like our future, college or not, if so when, and how God wants to use us in the days to come was easier to determine. As a teacher, we are expected to equip kids for college. I no longer think that is the easy answer or the best for every person in God's plan.

Leadership Summit Learning I - "Third Culture"

Thoughts from Dave Gibbons, The Monkey and the Fish

"Third culture is the mindset and will to love, learn, and serve in any culture, even in the midst of pain and discomfort."

"If there's one quality that matters most to the fate of the church in the twenty-first century, it's adaptability."

"The church has an amazing opportunity to become what God is hoping we will become. We need fresh counter intuitive ways of leading-in practice and in philosophy."

"Our task as the church is to be water. To flow. Not crash."

"Our water--our message--remains what it always has been: the love of Jesus. Our forms, our containers can change. Must change. Furthermore, our conflicts shouldn't be about forms."

"Being third culture is about being water to a world that is deeply thirsty when it comes to spirituality and meaning, and is in need of adaptive and contextualized language and forms when talking about God and Christianity."

"The mindset-a passion to be open to new cultures and new ways, and a devotion to see shifts in society and the world at large and to respond exuberantly and artfully --is at the heart of being a third-culture church."

Surviving the Heat - Mind over Matter

It has been in the 90's all week. Not the 1990's. That would be weird. Temperature 90's. Hot. Summer. Expected, though we've had decent weather until now. I am thankful that mornings and evenings are cool. I'm thankful that I'm so cool. Huh?

So, I realized I have a strategy for surviving as the day heats up. Our home does not have air conditioning, so that plays in to my strategy.

15 Tips to Beat the Heat

1. Start out wearing warmer clothes: long pants or jeans, a shirt with sleeves.
2. When it gets too hot mid-afternoon, change into shorts and a sleeveless top to feel relief.
3. I can usually take a shower, and if I rinse my head -- or wash my hair -- ahhhhh! Such coolness as the hair air dries. Thankfully, I don't have to use a blow dryer.
4. I also have a little kid's wading pool. I fill it, put a chair next to it, grab a book and read while I just put my feet in the pool. I don't need a big pool. My feet don't know the difference, and the cooling effect is delightful.
5. Make "sun tea" -- ice tea that brews in the sun. That makes the heat productive and rewards us with a cool drink.
6. Go to the YMCA -- it is air conditioned and I can exercise there -- even swim in the pool! Nice.
   
7. Keep lights off, of course.
8. Enjoy the shade.
9. Go to the coast.
10. Get indoors at a public space: library, restaurant, store, or movie; or take a drive in the air conditioned car!
11. Eat a cold soup such as Summer Borscht, Gazpacho, or Vichyssoise.
12. Eat crispy cool salads.
13. Eat BBQ burgers or hot dogs or anything from the grill; sure -- the grill gets too hot, but if you are hot already, at least it feels like a fun occassion.
14. Get plenty of water to stay hydrated.
15. If outdoors, use an umbrella for shade.
16. Look at pictures of winter and snow.
17. Sing snow songs.
18. Water balloon fights and sprinkler runs.
    

Things to Avoid in Hot Weather

1. Watching my dogs pant. I always tell them it is too warm for pants -- go change; or I tell them it is going to be hot today, they may want to take off their coats. They don't even laugh.
   
2. Baking cookies.
3. Wearing socks and shoes.
4. Sitting in the sun.
5. Going without water.
6. Planning a trip to the dessert.
   

Cindi Psalm 1

Lord of Heaven
You call our name
You whisper in our heart
May we grow to love like You
May we learn to see what’s true
May we choose to follow You
Lord of Heaven

Lord of Heaven
Your word gives life
You waken up our soul
May we follow where You lead
May we recognize the need
May we honor You in deed
Lord of Heaven

Dear Mr. Obama

Dear President Obama,

I just read another (e-mail forwarded, of course,) letter supposedly from another teacher, and let me just say, I have had it, too. But in contrast to how that other letter started, I have had it with all the nasty and divisive criticism of your administration. I am saddened by the treatment you have received by people who would never allow their kids to speak of a classmate or neighbor the way they criticize you, by people who claim to know Christ and claim to value love and kindness. I have had enough. I apologize to you for our selfish, small-minded interpretation of things you have done and said.

I commend you, Michelle, and your team for all that you do on behalf of the United States of America. I am deeply touched by your leadership and integrity, impressed with your intelligence, value your ability to articulate truth, appreciate your sense of humor (Stephen Colbert’s haircut, for example), applaud your decency, respect your commitment to Michelle and your daughters and how you champion fatherhood, envy your coolness under pressure, admire your ability to think on your feet, applaud your down-to-earth approachability as evidenced in interviews and other efforts, cheer for your commitment to the greater good, and thank you for many things, including keen insight into complicated issues, boldness in values, heart for service, humility in understanding the complexity of our times, kindness to your new dog, patience with pundits, and sacrifices both personal and professional demanded through this job you have been graciously willing to take on for the people.

I know you are intelligent, grounded, and wise enough to surround yourself with others who will look at details, statistics, and strategies beyond what I will ever be able to know or calculate. My pledge to you: I will grant you time and space to lead without being second-guessed on everything by me. I will acknowledge failure is an expected part of success, and grant you the grace needed to move ahead. I will concentrate on the areas where I have influence and control, and use my energies to make a positive difference in my arena, and support you in yours without assuming I have enough information to judge.

Your speech in Cairo was profound. Your visits to other countries inspired. Your delicate walk with the situation in Iran educated me. Your comments on abortion at Notre Dame’s graduation elevated that conversation. Bravo!

In the first few months of your presidency, I have learned powerful lessons and been reminded of how I want to live in response to the crazy stuff going on through various talk TV and radio personalities, forwarded e-mails, and conversations with people:
• I choose to not be critical from this far away from what goes on in federal government, since I do not have all the information, and often the information I do have is not accurate.
• I want my words and actions to be true to The Golden Rule.
• I want to remember to be kind to all presidents in how I speak of them, even if I do not agree.
• I want to be part of solutions and service, not of division and damaging words and efforts.

My demographics: I am about to turn 54, live outside a major city in a state that is broke, registered as an Independent voter, a follower of Christ that attends a large evangelical church, public school educator, have a Master of Science degree in Education Administration, worked briefly in public relations, was an intern for the State of Indiana Assembly, and lived outside of Chicago for about 14 years – and Chicago remains my favorite city to this day! I am happily married to Glen (a Democrat), have no children, and have really had to learn to live more simply with reduced income in recent years due to my husband’s worthy vocational choice (consultant to build capacity for community organizations).

I’d like to say more in support of you, your words, and your administration, about issues I’ve heard some friends and family members cruelly speak against, but who has time. There is a lot to do together.

You are a good man and a capable leader and president. Keep it up. Stay safe. Love your family. Play basketball. Live the faith. Thanks for everything. It is a new day in the USA, and I’ll walk with you to move on. God bless you and everyone, and God bless the United States of America and all nations. We hope to meet you someday.

Sincerely,
Another Real American
Cindi Peterson

Global Responsibility

Challenging excerpt from a One report on a meeting at the UN, June 25, 2009...

Mr. Miguel d’Escoto Brockmann, the President of the General Assembly, stated at the outset of his speech that we are meeting because “we are going through the most singular moment in human history when our common future is at stake.” He said we must acknowledge that the current economic and financial crisis is the result of “an egotistical and irresponsible way of living, producing, consuming and establishing relationships among ourselves and with nature that involved systematic aggression against Earth and its ecosystems,” which masked social imbalance and global social injustice. He called for “a sustainable way of life,” which stems from a shared vision of the values and principles that promote the well-being of present and future generations, and a creation of a new global ethic to share our common global good that is the “Mother Earth.” This should be extended in dealing with the concerns of environment as well as humanitarian issues including poverty, which is a “time bomb” against humanities of all societies. He concluded his moving speech with a plea that that we “arm ourselves with solidarity and cooperation in order to make a qualitative leap forward to a future of peace and well-being.”

Oma, Opa, and Raspberries

I just ate a little bowl of fresh raspberries, drizzled with cream and a light sprinkle of sugar. This is a summer treat from my childhood. When I was growing up in Akron, Ohio, I was introduced to this summer delight. I would go with my next door neighbors, Annette and Debbie, to visit their grandparents for the morning or afternoon. I remember four things: 1) we called them Oma and Opa, 2) they were of German descent, still with an accent, 3) they had the most fabulous doll house there, and 4) they'd sometimes serve us fresh summer raspberries with cream and sugar. Delightful dessert and memories for me to this day. [Sorry I don't have a photo of fresh raspberries right now. I just ate them.]

Immigration Reform

As I learn more about the issues of immigration reform, I have walked away from the black and white standard responses of my previous positions. My mind has been touched by real life situations that bust some myths wide open. My heart has been broken in repentance for systemic sins.

Through further study of Scripture, I have gained broader perspective on citizenship, personalized alien status, and looked deeper into the eyes of people impacted by this complicated issue. I am now cautious about blaming a people group for problems, without being willing to listen. As a public educator, I have a higher purpose when I look into the eyes of a child. I grasp the power of education to move out of poverty. I will work to educate that child. I cannot police who is deserving.

I must continue to learn. I am called to love...God, neighbors, and enemies. That will keep me busy for years. I look forward to moments that nurture understanding and establish caring conversation on the topic.

Goodbye Guest Room Wallpaper!

Today, I finished removing the wallpaper in the guest room. We have lived in this house for 13 years. We had many rooms that need to lose the wallpaper. Glen's office and the dining room have reached that goal. Now the guest room can be added to the list.

I don't have any memory of serious wall paper removal. Glen did that task in his office. We paid a friend to do that for the dining room. I tackled the guest room. "How hard can it be?" I thought to myself. It was time consuming, but moved along faster than expected. It was physically hard, but manageable. The perfect physical task after winding up another school year! I went in the room and sprayed and scraped and saw progress each day. A nice way to unwind, really. Thankfully, the temperature was pleasant outside, too.

I learned a lot doing this myself. Glen helped me understand the process with some good tips. I cannot believe it is done and soon will be painted. The grand thing about projects like this is once it is done, I don't have to do it again -- no more wallpaper there. That is in contrast to chores, which do have to be done over and over. Another plus is the feeling of satisfaction as I walked out from under the cloud of procrastination and away from the frustration of never getting to it. That right there has payback when it comes to energy given back.

I am excited to see the room freshly painted in a Bennington Gray (looks like coffee with plenty of cream). I can't wait to finish it up with two more mini-blinds and other decorative accents, most of which we already own. When my parents visit in December, it will be a welcoming room after so many years of annoying walls and unorganized storage. I call it "The Nutcracker Suite" when they visit; not a comment on them, just a holiday name for a room.

We do like to share the room. Friends are coming next week, thus the push to get at it! A family of five from the Midwest will use it a base camp while the sight see in the area. I will look forward to sharing it more readily, now that it will look nicer. It is a delightful room, facing west, plenty of windows, and a pretty view through the trees. We can even see downtown L.A. in the distance at night -- the lighted skyline.

So why did it take so long to get it done? So many years of meaning to get to it, and then in less than a week it is ready to paint? We are busy, but really?!! Anyway, it is done now. As I thought of the procrastination, while I was scraping away, I noted a hint of something interesting within myself. When a task is undone, lots of dreaming of the day it is done goes on for me, bringing me joy and something to look forward to. And yet, once the task is complete, the dreaming stops. The "looking forward to" becomes reality. There a mild sense of loss of a dream that prevents us from moving ahead. Do I subconsciously think what if I don't like it once done, what will I have to look forward to creatively then, and what if I can't do what my ideas have crafted in our heads? This may be the curse of the creative person. Not all creative people are procrastinators, though. Anyway, I moved past that moment of melancholy. It did make me pause to see if that is a little of what makes me procrastinate. I'd rather dream than do.

The Bakery Quest

This weekend, I started a new quest. I began to look for little bakeries as I travel around. My friend recommended two to me. One in Santa Barbara and another in Capitola, California. We stopped at Our Daily Bread in Santa Barbara on Friday afternoon for a late lunch. We did not get to Gayle's in Capitola. Another friend recommended The Buttery in Santa Cruz, which was very close to our hotel. We stopped there on the way out of town this morning.

There is something quaint, charming, and welcoming about a town bakery. It is a personal touch in a crazy world, and people gather there to enjoy something good and often to share relaxed conversation with others. Is it the daytime version of what a neighborhood bar might be at night? I don't know. The bakery seems to be a gentle peek into a local community for a tourist, providing a neighborhood connection. A bakery is a nice alternative to the fast paced world of food chains.

So, I'm enjoying this new quest. We'll see what I learn from observations and sampled treats! As a sociologist by education (B.A. Sociology), I love learning how people function in groups in society, and a bakery can provide interesting perspective.

The Tortilla Chip of Engagement

On June 10, 1992, Glen turned to me over dinner at the Uptown Mexican Cafe, and romantically and practically speaking, said, "Well, marry me, then." My first act of biblical wifely submission. I said, "OK." Pause. "Are we engaged now?" I inquired. He said that he thought so. So, there we were over refried beans, and a simple exchange of a few words changed our lives forever.

We were therefore and thereby engaged. We needed some sort of ceremony or ritual to make it feel real. So, we each took a tortilla chip in hand, dipped each said chip in the salsa, linked our arms in that feeding the wedding cake kind of awkward motion and fed one another a chip. That officially became our tradition of promise, the beloved "Tortilla Chip of Engagement." And we all know, a one time ritual like that can bring memories of delight as the years go by.

I'd say "yes" all over again. And in fact, each day in marriage requires some broad sense of generous yes. I still have a crush on my husband. I am grateful to God for Glen. Marriage is hard. A good marriage is hard. And worth it. Most days, we have a great time here. Seventeen years later, I'm still happy he asked and I said yes.

My First Zumba

Now I've gotten in touch with my inner Latina. And I now consider entertainers who can breathe, dance, and sing, like Beyonce, athletes!

I went to my community YMCA this morning for the Zumba® class. I have never been before. I had read the description, and thought I'd give it a try since I like Latin musica. Zumba® is described on the official web site this way: "fuses hypnotic Latin rhythms and easy to follow moves to create a dynamic fitness program that will blow you away."

http://www.zumba.com/us/

I lasted 25 minutes. I was wishing I'd brought water. It was a workout, baby!

The dance studio/exercise room was crowded. Besides myself, there was one other woman who looked to be of northern European descent. The only language I heard spoken before class began was Spanish. Maybe I picked the wrong day to wear my t-shirt with the United States flag on it, but my globe t-shirt was in the wash. [I don't have a globe t-shirt.] One man participated.

I headed to the back wall and claimed my spot. The instructor came in, set-up her i-Pod, and moved to the front and center. And the music started. The beat pounded from the speaker over me head, and women all around me, all ages and stages, sizes and shapes, tattooed and not, started to move a little.

Then the teacher started moving. She did not speak. The music was too loud for that anyway. And we all followed her. Forward, back, left to right, side to side, bend, twist, arms up, arms back. And shake it, girlfriend. If that's fun for you.

What a workout! I had fun, but thought I should cool down at the end of 25 minutes. Actually, I thought I might die if I did not. So, I left for today. I walked around the parking lot twice to slow down my pulse before driving home for a big glass of water. Wow! That was exercise. And it was fun.

I laughed at how uncomfortable I was "dancing," basically. I laughed at how uncoordinated I am. It was tricky for me to feel the flow of it all. I discovered I am a decent mimic, so I followed the teacher OK. I did not hurt myself or anyone else in my attempts to move this way and that. I did OK.

Let me just say...some of the Zumba sisters got it going on! They can move to the groove with a flair that is enviable. I, on the other hand, remain rather mechanical and comfortable with that. This seems to be a group that has Zumba'd many times. Some even wore trademark Zumba clothes! I may have been the only one new. That's cause for some minor discomfort, too. Hey, it keeps me young to learn in new situations. And the activity, in spite of the small moments of self-consciousness, is a great investment in life.

Hooray...for getting to the gym. For getting exercise. On a Saturday.

That Bugs!

Bugs are eating my spearmint, oregano, and basil plant leaves. Ugh! That bugs! Those bugs. I can't seem to catch them in the act to put them on time out. But I see their scat and the holes in the leaves. What shall I do?