tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36317351751144039052024-03-13T08:23:24.457-07:00See More LoveCourtney Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08517702204559601018noreply@blogger.comBlogger82125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631735175114403905.post-14880892602213176902013-08-04T15:22:00.001-07:002013-08-04T15:22:45.854-07:00All you need. . .Since getting back home 3 days ago, I've hardly had time to process anything. 1 wedding, 2 bachelorette parties and a family reunion. The last few das have been full of friends, family and laughter. <div><br></div><div>I hve had such an amazing journey these last 4 months, and am so grateful to all my friends and family I met along the way. Today I started to get a little sad, thinking my journey was over. But then my friend Cris reminded me that my journey isn't over. It continues for the rest of my life. </div><div><br></div><div>I set out on a journey to see more love in the world, to find hope and joy in people's lives. <i>15 </i>states, 8 flights, 5 buses, 4 trains, 4 car trips, and a bicycle ride later. . . I am amazed at how much I saw, and how many people touched my life. I feel blessed to know so many fun, amazing, open hearted and open armed people in this world. Not only did I see more love on my journey, but I felt it. I shared it. I thought it and spoke it and hope the ripples can keep on rippling. </div><div><br></div><div>This journey helped me to see more love in my own life, and bring the loudness of joy to the surface. What a beautiful life, with loving people. Like Rumi said "When you open to love, you are helping people you don't know and have never met." </div><div><br></div><div>In the midst of our crazy world, we can still approach our lives and the people in it with love. If we could all see the world through lenses of love, the world would be a happier, healthier and safer place to be. Imagine the possibilities if you chose to live intentionally with more love in your life. Who would you forgive? What peace would settle on your heart? </div><div><br></div><div>I learned too many things from people along the way to put into words, but the few lessons I will leave you with for now are this. Life is precious. Forgive yourself. Love is everywhere. Every single person is beautiful, and can teach you something if you listen. Life may get stressful or hard, but every morning wake up saying "Joy, joy, joy." Joy that you are alive, joy that you are you, joy that your life is full of love - you just have to remember to open your eyes to it. Are your eyes open? Go tell someone right now that you love them! And then tell that to yourself. Life really is as cheesy as the Beatles make it sound - all you need is love!</div><div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNG31xGL1cXcRzLv5s5_gYLX_D21zNOVXZiFmiVUW-_NKdUhW5YqHSzSLiboDk2I9LG_HCWiFSyPYNyV7JMf2Qh87hy0MVWZX207JE_slYtmL_H8q5c6cZAU8K1QaEraVuv_Q8pxbj8AF2/s640/blogger-image-2039836030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNG31xGL1cXcRzLv5s5_gYLX_D21zNOVXZiFmiVUW-_NKdUhW5YqHSzSLiboDk2I9LG_HCWiFSyPYNyV7JMf2Qh87hy0MVWZX207JE_slYtmL_H8q5c6cZAU8K1QaEraVuv_Q8pxbj8AF2/s640/blogger-image-2039836030.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipWCoAoj1jA0r7TikmzCVr8Jdyw8xseogt7Xv82peV4PLoGZ3FIPslAH7cp6mgCxZ-3r0K7vom1_DVPcN84cx_9ejJmNrvQH_RnD3GNOSg0APH-PIo1UXrAmWkAA68uVzWTzkoC6sh73f8/s640/blogger-image-2137762815.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipWCoAoj1jA0r7TikmzCVr8Jdyw8xseogt7Xv82peV4PLoGZ3FIPslAH7cp6mgCxZ-3r0K7vom1_DVPcN84cx_9ejJmNrvQH_RnD3GNOSg0APH-PIo1UXrAmWkAA68uVzWTzkoC6sh73f8/s640/blogger-image-2137762815.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipmvLKqs2oiZfNDe8HjXlXj4kcCXnpKyEPR41yozGbuhl0ASPks0mrOw60Werh_Y60Et1rnEst_aQ81BIBvJkwKuQ4zavQUR-vgVNInYmpGBE7td1rYNat5ve4_qeWVWYqYLMCCYjAzmmb/s640/blogger-image-258411412.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipmvLKqs2oiZfNDe8HjXlXj4kcCXnpKyEPR41yozGbuhl0ASPks0mrOw60Werh_Y60Et1rnEst_aQ81BIBvJkwKuQ4zavQUR-vgVNInYmpGBE7td1rYNat5ve4_qeWVWYqYLMCCYjAzmmb/s640/blogger-image-258411412.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPDSwRmfRGabKEoe1NWJSzv0CCLUudBCr6SXx-2GsxtYC619xL5aDsQabQ8hX6qTLHZ1MU3Hnnn-61Mcf4NgNQovJ_Hk5DFfJctiWevleWpvvqq6K1OcwjeB1b60c_4KSrBTtjh9-XhqCP/s640/blogger-image-1266679278.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPDSwRmfRGabKEoe1NWJSzv0CCLUudBCr6SXx-2GsxtYC619xL5aDsQabQ8hX6qTLHZ1MU3Hnnn-61Mcf4NgNQovJ_Hk5DFfJctiWevleWpvvqq6K1OcwjeB1b60c_4KSrBTtjh9-XhqCP/s640/blogger-image-1266679278.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-wM9StPYE8oWHOP6T5QYUZUtbwErXq_fV7g7d-pUrJWa0nfOmQahFf3hgeOJ61LGEiQlEQ_cTtMXnCFupTkvhaDfyJx7Y0RHFjeuPXWuKoszPcOl_GK5OKgrz-e17F53IoZ51lnJ3vQpJ/s640/blogger-image--1361386948.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-wM9StPYE8oWHOP6T5QYUZUtbwErXq_fV7g7d-pUrJWa0nfOmQahFf3hgeOJ61LGEiQlEQ_cTtMXnCFupTkvhaDfyJx7Y0RHFjeuPXWuKoszPcOl_GK5OKgrz-e17F53IoZ51lnJ3vQpJ/s640/blogger-image--1361386948.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEa3pyaPktT1agSqJYOyOSEMvRs233BlV9AZJ-Fpnbo-RQx3Z0lhKRfHvSHxKwJvNYYsXx8830HRt3-VLQ5qKGNIdpXxfrYdLbNt9bpSz2n41CXwzxyMTJpJb8rhLjLr6N4E0czo71d5aL/s640/blogger-image--33117561.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEa3pyaPktT1agSqJYOyOSEMvRs233BlV9AZJ-Fpnbo-RQx3Z0lhKRfHvSHxKwJvNYYsXx8830HRt3-VLQ5qKGNIdpXxfrYdLbNt9bpSz2n41CXwzxyMTJpJb8rhLjLr6N4E0czo71d5aL/s640/blogger-image--33117561.jpg"></a></div>Courtney Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08517702204559601018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631735175114403905.post-28811550271042864912013-07-30T23:47:00.001-07:002013-07-30T23:47:50.560-07:00Goodnight Chicago!Chicago was a brilliant pit stop. So fun! We had a day FULL to the brim with exploration. We started at the Art Institute o Chicago where my mom was in heaven. We found her favorite artists, and she was so giddy - like a kid in a candy store! The exhibits were pretty fantastic, my favorite being miniature rooms fashioned after 18th century European homes. <div><br></div><div>After that , we jumped on a double decker bus for a tour of the city. I don't usually do touristy things like this (I usually hop on the wrong subways, spend half my day looking at maps, and accidentally spend $20 on a ticket that costs $2), but I loved it! It was so nice to just be able to sit and enjoy the scenery, an be dropped at any stop we wanted to explore. </div><div><br></div><div>We were very impressed with all the beautiful architecture, beautiful old buildings in the shadow of modern humongous ones. Some of our favorite parts were the bean (an awesome reflective kidney bean that reflected the skyline), the Navy Pier, and the city lit up at night. In the evening when all the lights turned on an the city came to life, it was pretty fantastical. My mom rode on her first subway - we took the wron train, almost got the doors closed on us, and were sitting next to a belligerent drunk guy, but she never complained. </div><div><br></div><div>This morning on our way out o Chicago, we stopped in to have breakfast with my great aunt Anita. She was so sweet! We sat over coffee an talked about family, travel, and the adorable story of how she and my uncle Gerome met. As we said good-bye, she stood in her garden and blew us a kiss. </div><div><br></div><div>I have absolutely loved this part of my trip, finding family everywhere - connecting, sharing food, sharing stories, and always feeling the love. </div><div><div><br></div></div><div>My favorite piece in the museum</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5duBWTbGrAd1aQGQvJC3THyVtvnInvn4e5JKj7ddz5OrG6-_vRCp7ziCu2KLefQ1I09IU6gOyhlrr8sfAouGwuEN8Tpy3N-WEyfHG661LtYHVKurDntukmP0ATy_l14M9kUwEdXZJ1YPs/s640/blogger-image-1349581674.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5duBWTbGrAd1aQGQvJC3THyVtvnInvn4e5JKj7ddz5OrG6-_vRCp7ziCu2KLefQ1I09IU6gOyhlrr8sfAouGwuEN8Tpy3N-WEyfHG661LtYHVKurDntukmP0ATy_l14M9kUwEdXZJ1YPs/s640/blogger-image-1349581674.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>My mom and her art love<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjljMTT9LI1KadfhffFz-kct_RP2bOQSbRmngvfYDd_ckkfR-xOD-iFd0Inu5_MJeG7VTzL_5fM8Te7Rdwkspps4KhDcbYgzpPMddBlzLbp5AfylSDeTGazgcBnZiYnezx_QiJNobUv_N69/s640/blogger-image--444772390.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjljMTT9LI1KadfhffFz-kct_RP2bOQSbRmngvfYDd_ckkfR-xOD-iFd0Inu5_MJeG7VTzL_5fM8Te7Rdwkspps4KhDcbYgzpPMddBlzLbp5AfylSDeTGazgcBnZiYnezx_QiJNobUv_N69/s640/blogger-image--444772390.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>Adorable art bears<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH7BJwtQoV1t47jqC0Q0d7jgnUahLWk8-iVUp-XmE3Wp_b7lJLImaGD1tGSTVUG8gz6b8MrdvZlE3NzHN5atWXE8uoTchFXZJaYJbhJvu73KL_PjznB__8CZE3vWynN4wAQ0zzlSlLRHwE/s640/blogger-image--844519052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH7BJwtQoV1t47jqC0Q0d7jgnUahLWk8-iVUp-XmE3Wp_b7lJLImaGD1tGSTVUG8gz6b8MrdvZlE3NzHN5atWXE8uoTchFXZJaYJbhJvu73KL_PjznB__8CZE3vWynN4wAQ0zzlSlLRHwE/s640/blogger-image--844519052.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>The reflective bean!<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDhZc8BV4RuntbDEq4Vvh5xIZfMY03xRs194pGYPH6q6c10NfDKUHp9OZ_eo2XtyWOCF0g2OBZkknmvPjhxOdzot1KBLaSOVjhJnenBnXCQk1BgM-XP6oTZhQ2rJAPtWrwFO2Jj5PQRTNS/s640/blogger-image-913710273.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDhZc8BV4RuntbDEq4Vvh5xIZfMY03xRs194pGYPH6q6c10NfDKUHp9OZ_eo2XtyWOCF0g2OBZkknmvPjhxOdzot1KBLaSOVjhJnenBnXCQk1BgM-XP6oTZhQ2rJAPtWrwFO2Jj5PQRTNS/s640/blogger-image-913710273.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie7Y8BPxSzUmORqfV9Qa5qexLG0QSr5MYMaulha-bBNn-YuGPuQNzMUsYjaNL8Gc0x0Hh7Te3s5TGYSo7y5qLNvldyqc83FqQyg0tucOwGdZjBUxVYu-hRb63jQR2mPt_QgyfsV1RFYv8U/s640/blogger-image--82223960.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie7Y8BPxSzUmORqfV9Qa5qexLG0QSr5MYMaulha-bBNn-YuGPuQNzMUsYjaNL8Gc0x0Hh7Te3s5TGYSo7y5qLNvldyqc83FqQyg0tucOwGdZjBUxVYu-hRb63jQR2mPt_QgyfsV1RFYv8U/s640/blogger-image--82223960.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUyycV5WqxKK7WGMY8xYz1LhiRqFCwSHe_I37aaE4UcWr8RT-JtwZosZaV2ISUsNWa4d8cXdT18to1zMtpqzCcsqMY2P2KAKD1TLwJZT7_kcCADnf-6JIs7yvO7ROpJ_G_e5b87z7AA1N0/s640/blogger-image--1582817363.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUyycV5WqxKK7WGMY8xYz1LhiRqFCwSHe_I37aaE4UcWr8RT-JtwZosZaV2ISUsNWa4d8cXdT18to1zMtpqzCcsqMY2P2KAKD1TLwJZT7_kcCADnf-6JIs7yvO7ROpJ_G_e5b87z7AA1N0/s640/blogger-image--1582817363.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>Goodnight Chicago!<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2R3YFzPJvVe0yYS4230XHWuhwWpJBCXcSLyltApHsJRxvxY5MNwv0v3a-m5c0EKq8VXTAWWrxKM_ESHyn37kaYZeSHI3KEFlpUcTkJUDZbFKwcqX2Y0Iv6PSMdbR1rLZKpxY9q3V98iuP/s640/blogger-image--1070735965.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2R3YFzPJvVe0yYS4230XHWuhwWpJBCXcSLyltApHsJRxvxY5MNwv0v3a-m5c0EKq8VXTAWWrxKM_ESHyn37kaYZeSHI3KEFlpUcTkJUDZbFKwcqX2Y0Iv6PSMdbR1rLZKpxY9q3V98iuP/s640/blogger-image--1070735965.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>Me and Anita<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmYjT3u_0N8KG6f1XdJ8i1nxxysS1Z1Q6n3_Xv4Yr-MsnYSgCHZFF2HRtNJnaZQw3mvT6MzCLaRxj6uKYeW3BcrcLyrNNp1GT8rM5BK8k1WN8SdD1HynusD9ynL34s5mOP4KHHhB79GZPv/s640/blogger-image-522842954.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmYjT3u_0N8KG6f1XdJ8i1nxxysS1Z1Q6n3_Xv4Yr-MsnYSgCHZFF2HRtNJnaZQw3mvT6MzCLaRxj6uKYeW3BcrcLyrNNp1GT8rM5BK8k1WN8SdD1HynusD9ynL34s5mOP4KHHhB79GZPv/s640/blogger-image-522842954.jpg"></a></div>Courtney Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08517702204559601018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631735175114403905.post-59718907965530289542013-07-30T12:28:00.001-07:002013-07-30T16:12:01.607-07:00Windy City or Bust?Pastor Stuart invited us to Church Sunday morning, so of course we went! There is something special about going to church in a small town. The community is small, but so faithful! On Sunday, there were about 18 people at church, and the atmosphere was full of joy. <div><br></div><div>Pastor Stuart welcomed us at the beginning of service, and when we shared peace, everyone welcomed us with big smiles. I absolutely loved the close, casual vibe. It was like a conversation between the congregation and pastor. As he was giving his sermon, people would respond , or comment as they felt. We laughed during church, and kids raised their hands to share prayers that were in their mind. </div><div><br></div><div>And I loved listening to Pastor Stuart. He is such a passionate and loving man, and as he spoke you could hear the love in his voice. During one of the hymns he teared up, and shared that the way the beautiful music honors the history it holds on the church touches him. </div><div><br></div><div>After church we spent time chatting over coffee. No one knew anything about our family but we adored the company all the same. Zwingle may be small, but the love and community is huge! I love that little town! </div><div><br></div><div>After Zwingle, my mom and I decided to head to Chicago. We had no plans for the next 2 nights, and figured - why not? It's only 3 hours away. On the road, up until Chicago, our scenery was still just corn and soy beans! Farm country.</div><div><br></div><div>Per Pastor Stuart's recommendation, we stopped at a delicious pizzeria, for Chicago'a signature deep dish pizza. Oh my gosh! My mouth is salivating just thinking about it! And Gino's East had a very cool, artsy vibe. Turns out everyone in Chicago has an alliance to a different pizza joint (every person recommended a different place as best pizza) but we thought ours was pretty awesome. Then we walked around some shops and buildings on the magnificent mile. We went up trump tower, and I was freaked out! Too tall for me. My favorite building was the Chicago Tribune building, engraved with powerful quotes about freedom of speech. </div><div><br></div><div>We were super excited for our unexpected stop in the Windy City! We got a hotel outside the city, ready to explore the next day!</div> <div>The United Harmony Church of Christ<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgukFVdSDGGcz1KWUA4Cz7BPLrOmg30QRgGAJJUDUYKtWzhe4ETy2c5h9yBvuImdxwvgy_B0sfjUcFCIis4YMX8r4deNMKx5IousiYuV1K49aGZ5SrcRNDBikXHdllZE29NlZySJKxlh_Qs/s640/blogger-image--1027320034.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgukFVdSDGGcz1KWUA4Cz7BPLrOmg30QRgGAJJUDUYKtWzhe4ETy2c5h9yBvuImdxwvgy_B0sfjUcFCIis4YMX8r4deNMKx5IousiYuV1K49aGZ5SrcRNDBikXHdllZE29NlZySJKxlh_Qs/s640/blogger-image--1027320034.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>Chicago city skyline<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8dkU_jj75aTKFYrrXDgNS2mSoNhG_XjNMju2CjC49vd6zuPdpZP46VyCTfAcNsGH2T-Bw-imUCRzdiZD4LFax1VQmUfVLYat2T1SpJySg8N_T8IwR-p5nEVXc9JIWTMeTPQ_TmIxLWmp2/s640/blogger-image-1734728283.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8dkU_jj75aTKFYrrXDgNS2mSoNhG_XjNMju2CjC49vd6zuPdpZP46VyCTfAcNsGH2T-Bw-imUCRzdiZD4LFax1VQmUfVLYat2T1SpJySg8N_T8IwR-p5nEVXc9JIWTMeTPQ_TmIxLWmp2/s640/blogger-image-1734728283.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>My mom at Gino's East<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAx-FeWTO8OwQ19QcrpwUfH0zsXkgdaxZdVHynQGP1oVYqlD0eRK3B7kiM9qgzjOElHt7T1G1OyHvYPA3ZPkd42r6gsyZgtX0HDyEEgZO4YgxwpRCYSaESSaXIfJ2yYWHt00OS9ptJgu5J/s640/blogger-image-1011591337.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAx-FeWTO8OwQ19QcrpwUfH0zsXkgdaxZdVHynQGP1oVYqlD0eRK3B7kiM9qgzjOElHt7T1G1OyHvYPA3ZPkd42r6gsyZgtX0HDyEEgZO4YgxwpRCYSaESSaXIfJ2yYWHt00OS9ptJgu5J/s640/blogger-image-1011591337.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>Me! Seriously. I want some! So worth the lactose intolerant attack.<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5VLULqkzaxFA-713N2hMYd6gIQjNvHw0fkD-jNOXI9ZVEdDNeZAhn-cHn5aApa7kYW0dmVsxB136jf1YOj1R0bmfQnyjTVAi-G0T_HJn1lcuHQBDUcORN0WsfUkNnjPl5sGrKhC4a11po/s640/blogger-image--489744934.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5VLULqkzaxFA-713N2hMYd6gIQjNvHw0fkD-jNOXI9ZVEdDNeZAhn-cHn5aApa7kYW0dmVsxB136jf1YOj1R0bmfQnyjTVAi-G0T_HJn1lcuHQBDUcORN0WsfUkNnjPl5sGrKhC4a11po/s640/blogger-image--489744934.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div>The Chicago Tribune Tower<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSIccfxDmm56y6q8i0dESkIZRayL-VyXtCz8hFvFPcH0Q5ekWpWL1PGiSb8HU6BQAhMU3OhlRAtuW6x9OzHE4Y-YHk6PbkrOtmMoplTV9CuiWRxBOIl-AWVTtZ5qSWBqkZrZRm6fVzWC33/s640/blogger-image-1484563253.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSIccfxDmm56y6q8i0dESkIZRayL-VyXtCz8hFvFPcH0Q5ekWpWL1PGiSb8HU6BQAhMU3OhlRAtuW6x9OzHE4Y-YHk6PbkrOtmMoplTV9CuiWRxBOIl-AWVTtZ5qSWBqkZrZRm6fVzWC33/s640/blogger-image-1484563253.jpg"></a></div>Courtney Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08517702204559601018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631735175114403905.post-75625384858853489832013-07-30T11:55:00.001-07:002013-07-30T11:55:56.370-07:00ZwingleOne of the main reasons my mom and I are together for the last leg of my trip, is because my moms side of the family comes from a little town in Iowa - called Zwingle. We headed their Saturday afternoon in search of some family history. When we got to Zwingle. . . We laughed about how small it was. It's about 3 blocks long, population 93. We were looking for the church my great, great, great, great grandpa founded. The only businesses on the 3 block strip are a bar, post office and church, so it wasn't hard to find. The church was locked, so we went into the Cemetery and found our relatives. FC Bauman ( my great 4x grandpa) and his wife have a headstone closest to the church. He was the Reverend of United Harmony Church of Christ from the late 1800s until 1905. We also found my great great grandma (his great granddaughter), Blanch Estella (who my sister Hannah Estelle) was named after. Grandma Estella was the organist for the church. <div><br></div><div>While we were walking around the graveyard, a dog started barking at us from the neighbors house. A young boy came out and apologized, saying the dog was very protective of the graves. I asked him about the church, and he said "Well, my dad is the pastor, hang on." Perfect! </div><div><br></div><div>Pastor Stuart was so wonderful! He was welcoming, and spent time showing us around the church and giving us some history. Stuart had read our grandpa's journal - he was reverend from 1859-1905, and made 75 dollars per year!</div><div><br></div><div>While looking through records, we found old documents, another one of our grandpas journals, and he even gave us copies of big black and white pictures of our Grandma Estella playing the organ! </div><div><br></div><div>We felt super blessed to be there, sitting and learning in part of our history. That evening my mom and I went to Dubuque, to spend the night. We spent a lovely evening walking along the Mississippi, listening to some live music over wine, and hanging out a a roadside motel. We even went to a casino to bet 5 bucks. my mom had never been before, and she won 7 bucks! All in all- we had an amazing day! </div><div><br></div><div>Zwingle! We found it!</div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsxEx5eU8PBro-Cq5BRrs1g4ofVSi3UNycvoFPfOnP4SBK2C9MxSpCaukk5K5VLILdL0qJelEAw45icjuyPo1D2jobXhijApdR3C90B0Q9-qGgqJdl4mA2gzvq269KG7tyHbfXpLAcAg7D/s640/blogger-image--1232169171.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsxEx5eU8PBro-Cq5BRrs1g4ofVSi3UNycvoFPfOnP4SBK2C9MxSpCaukk5K5VLILdL0qJelEAw45icjuyPo1D2jobXhijApdR3C90B0Q9-qGgqJdl4mA2gzvq269KG7tyHbfXpLAcAg7D/s640/blogger-image--1232169171.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>My mom and Pastor Stuart looking through pictures<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS0PeTBt8q_TBv45J8AKyPnoIdTGHQ65GpPQzcxWTrMIT8_EEZxlQL0z8GHdYhrvbpyulW0olH0Fg3bLOmFvFKAqA9-lAq-09V-Zkz9vrBl2bc7bKpKx0y_SmkO0vMKC2prwGg1wnI3Drf/s640/blogger-image--1734640719.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS0PeTBt8q_TBv45J8AKyPnoIdTGHQ65GpPQzcxWTrMIT8_EEZxlQL0z8GHdYhrvbpyulW0olH0Fg3bLOmFvFKAqA9-lAq-09V-Zkz9vrBl2bc7bKpKx0y_SmkO0vMKC2prwGg1wnI3Drf/s640/blogger-image--1734640719.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>That's my great, great grandma Estella playing the organ!<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMrx8yX9jPSMUMzHRgteQ-Yrj96Y84LDfIUVJeoiSU5R0WDbFkFnfPEWjeCjG53GaNAaRe_WN0XDJaEa643DUA_g6FfI4HqAb-AtaK31rYhwJFGThtFX25z5ZZ158FImLHp7vmSR_ubIU5/s640/blogger-image--411610669.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMrx8yX9jPSMUMzHRgteQ-Yrj96Y84LDfIUVJeoiSU5R0WDbFkFnfPEWjeCjG53GaNAaRe_WN0XDJaEa643DUA_g6FfI4HqAb-AtaK31rYhwJFGThtFX25z5ZZ158FImLHp7vmSR_ubIU5/s640/blogger-image--411610669.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>Dangling our feet over the Mississippi <br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwB-M7OJfu0Du4js1td1u555o4fHFfbhP6MBBNbkGoJ9WcOuEP_U192vV0WLbe1dsc3zY8RpvdD8BPYPY909AiR943p6AD0hLtjUS6l8IqV8axF2rIp5_GBv5IDzbZoZ5S4FKqAdxqiwts/s640/blogger-image--918206168.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwB-M7OJfu0Du4js1td1u555o4fHFfbhP6MBBNbkGoJ9WcOuEP_U192vV0WLbe1dsc3zY8RpvdD8BPYPY909AiR943p6AD0hLtjUS6l8IqV8axF2rIp5_GBv5IDzbZoZ5S4FKqAdxqiwts/s640/blogger-image--918206168.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>My ancestors, and church founders, FC Bauman and Elizabeth Cort<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4woeCCS2iZvY8UhYjHTbbRuODMtK-ApxhKIcQCNE7uWs_H4F_e8tZPOf5cETxQZT0SHJpITpA_H2evewTcZH2zn1M6GAm6kw6aaKZvRjxKvu5HDYomLBvruHup-tvE-DPHfC2TPh1uNfG/s640/blogger-image--1957597976.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4woeCCS2iZvY8UhYjHTbbRuODMtK-ApxhKIcQCNE7uWs_H4F_e8tZPOf5cETxQZT0SHJpITpA_H2evewTcZH2zn1M6GAm6kw6aaKZvRjxKvu5HDYomLBvruHup-tvE-DPHfC2TPh1uNfG/s640/blogger-image--1957597976.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>Stained glass window dedicated to our grandpa<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilZU9i0_kXT8KX1Rrk0MnySC-MmMK5ivNxLryRYwzMsCgwPBFz12h2_4cS70p1JGwClduByOl3PNZ-UUEdhr4DXHe8FLJPYE03wtvlokO72l_PpYpd6YnM6fBPdXrxmKn06dyunjeF7Eba/s640/blogger-image-229028861.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilZU9i0_kXT8KX1Rrk0MnySC-MmMK5ivNxLryRYwzMsCgwPBFz12h2_4cS70p1JGwClduByOl3PNZ-UUEdhr4DXHe8FLJPYE03wtvlokO72l_PpYpd6YnM6fBPdXrxmKn06dyunjeF7Eba/s640/blogger-image-229028861.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>My mom winning at the casino! <br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_sCHGG-S1Pw8Y3M01ubcioVluDFPCPvbtBJx53gtR-yyhdh4hdfKZPV9DYzY1e6nQNr8nGvuVeFtyqy4_wBSF_Jhb11UNzEWWEymrJoS_mf1NtF6LqYnSqBhG6dAMewNkupkHcLcP2fJG/s640/blogger-image-2073154584.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_sCHGG-S1Pw8Y3M01ubcioVluDFPCPvbtBJx53gtR-yyhdh4hdfKZPV9DYzY1e6nQNr8nGvuVeFtyqy4_wBSF_Jhb11UNzEWWEymrJoS_mf1NtF6LqYnSqBhG6dAMewNkupkHcLcP2fJG/s640/blogger-image-2073154584.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div><div>Our grandparents with the church</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZKuFJeay8vFzNc1xAzjnYtKHMTZjq7hcH5B-HJJoDHkJkeO6zygkL-Sh7AsyD41ZSIqWJ2MwiujpCOkq2fJzKx-JFNLyUiNuTaP-1Miu829Z0UnN1mOLEIpQspBVAp2a5w_OcH_-H7JlT/s640/blogger-image-1654772694.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZKuFJeay8vFzNc1xAzjnYtKHMTZjq7hcH5B-HJJoDHkJkeO6zygkL-Sh7AsyD41ZSIqWJ2MwiujpCOkq2fJzKx-JFNLyUiNuTaP-1Miu829Z0UnN1mOLEIpQspBVAp2a5w_OcH_-H7JlT/s640/blogger-image-1654772694.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>With my great, great grandma Estella. <br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizK7K657gOccOi6SkEfeNpU99sNKL-PN3IUOq8Litzzgpn0zSCzowlPdSXhGx6aCpqSR64GZQbpaefco53cMXXh-6413DAayJUqf8XRf5dQG1R18W0hx7y-HLlf3OHUS_WBEPnsdOq5yrT/s640/blogger-image-556726852.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizK7K657gOccOi6SkEfeNpU99sNKL-PN3IUOq8Litzzgpn0zSCzowlPdSXhGx6aCpqSR64GZQbpaefco53cMXXh-6413DAayJUqf8XRf5dQG1R18W0hx7y-HLlf3OHUS_WBEPnsdOq5yrT/s640/blogger-image-556726852.jpg"></a></div>Courtney Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08517702204559601018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631735175114403905.post-27151010777820720542013-07-29T22:48:00.001-07:002013-07-29T22:48:42.245-07:00Steamboat Rock on the Iowa<div><span style="font-family: XFINITYSansTT-Med; font-size: 15px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">Thursday was full of our Mexico friends (not to be confused with our Mexican friends). After getting our hearts full with the Hindys, we spent the night at the Schuller's. Six years ago we met John and his son Marcus in Mexico, and the next year he brought his wife Joan and his daughter Abby. We felt a super strong connection with these Iowa friends, and have stayed in contact over the years. </span></div><div><div style="font-family: XFINITYSansTT-Med; font-size: 15px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); "><br></div><div style="font-family: XFINITYSansTT-Med; font-size: 15px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">Even though we hadn't seen these friends for 5 years, after spending only an hour with Joan and John, it felt like we had seen each other every day. They made my mom and I feel right at home - putting us up in their beautiful home on the river in Steamboat Rock. </div><div style="font-family: XFINITYSansTT-Med; font-size: 15px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); "><br></div><div style="font-family: XFINITYSansTT-Med; font-size: 15px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">Our first night after catching up over wine, John took me on a night adventure tour. It was pouring down rain, and when we were walking over a railroad bridge, a raccoon started prowling towards us. I was ready to run, or jump in the river or something, but luckily John scared it away. </div><div style="font-family: XFINITYSansTT-Med; font-size: 15px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); "><br></div><div style="font-family: XFINITYSansTT-Med; font-size: 15px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">The next day, John and Joan took us on a tour of their adorable town - right on the Iowa River. John and I floated the river on tubes while my mom and John worked on some decorations for their daughter's upcoming wedding. The river was really fun, super cold, but absolutely beautiful. Being in the land of corn, we got our corn diplomas while with the Schullers. We saw the anatomy of a corn stalk, learned about seeds and tassels, and got the political and economical low down of the fields and farmers. </div><div style="font-family: XFINITYSansTT-Med; font-size: 15px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); "><br></div><div style="font-family: XFINITYSansTT-Med; font-size: 15px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">In the evening, Marcus came home from Cedar Rapids. We had a great dinner, made s'mores at the fire, and star gazed in the parking lot - the stars in the open sky of Iowa were breathtaking! We saw some shooting stars and made lots of wishes. </div><div style="font-family: XFINITYSansTT-Med; font-size: 15px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); "><br></div><div style="font-family: XFINITYSansTT-Med; font-size: 15px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">On Saturday, my mom and I had to say good-bye. It was so hard to leave! They took such good care of us, and fed us such delicious bacon! Bacon is my favorite food, and having farm fresh bacon was definitely a high light in Steamboat for me. </div><div style="font-family: XFINITYSansTT-Med; font-size: 15px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); "><br></div><div style="font-family: XFINITYSansTT-Med; font-size: 15px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">Thank you John and Joan for all your hospitality, for feeding our bellies, for being excellent tour guides, and for all the friendship and love. Ya'll are pretty special people and we already can't wait to come back to Iowa.</div></div><div><br></div>My mom, Joan and John talking at the Iowa River<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQVBJHArB8iqJVgDvvYtF4fVxAQRScrzFdHDElQA3aLAuPsY1-Ge_v4AIJopCLGXuNPOxwxVe_Syg8gNUbrHDNu_qeXFFjGG1PZJ973zsRdqQiatChlbKg4LGo09dW3aUINCyoJyy0GPfT/s640/blogger-image-1978525724.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQVBJHArB8iqJVgDvvYtF4fVxAQRScrzFdHDElQA3aLAuPsY1-Ge_v4AIJopCLGXuNPOxwxVe_Syg8gNUbrHDNu_qeXFFjGG1PZJ973zsRdqQiatChlbKg4LGo09dW3aUINCyoJyy0GPfT/s640/blogger-image-1978525724.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Iowa is so green and beautiful! The state motto is "Fields of opportunities"<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn6NF72q-ZEB3C_neg6CABNnfv110zxDMfQppFpkOknGZr937MJ9MAcoOWfjaQfoxusmef2FrMu5ZP6UeUPEGPWLa3C77Ipxdan40t1W9itT64ZqOT40rzsbPPvOW2dTueg0Tihphdzy4W/s640/blogger-image-2121373667.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn6NF72q-ZEB3C_neg6CABNnfv110zxDMfQppFpkOknGZr937MJ9MAcoOWfjaQfoxusmef2FrMu5ZP6UeUPEGPWLa3C77Ipxdan40t1W9itT64ZqOT40rzsbPPvOW2dTueg0Tihphdzy4W/s640/blogger-image-2121373667.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>John prepping for team meeting<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO8YYIrHGwK_S3VK13uGpDI-rVDduL5V3WjhKDvPxHvYDxkUyHZk_hdACYW9oMRbsVzUsxdg1I8ux0-oFI5rGWhvZcZw9OFZ3t6lgR6epO3E_SLKzZDF8StEsZFMXRcdZPLb8v6bLxq-EB/s640/blogger-image--1281733053.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO8YYIrHGwK_S3VK13uGpDI-rVDduL5V3WjhKDvPxHvYDxkUyHZk_hdACYW9oMRbsVzUsxdg1I8ux0-oFI5rGWhvZcZw9OFZ3t6lgR6epO3E_SLKzZDF8StEsZFMXRcdZPLb8v6bLxq-EB/s640/blogger-image--1281733053.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>At the fire<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6amgMOS7s1mQefAv8saV2JSSdE6JglyjAbCAMUuy7fzeFaWEEouBCmowjnLj3t3RYYKTMaelMMaILbkhbkMA4ewhCajfDkjtDiLpBWcAX2L9ztRDuec7YCB9XadU_7netdCrfLDpQfQkm/s640/blogger-image-1323149173.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6amgMOS7s1mQefAv8saV2JSSdE6JglyjAbCAMUuy7fzeFaWEEouBCmowjnLj3t3RYYKTMaelMMaILbkhbkMA4ewhCajfDkjtDiLpBWcAX2L9ztRDuec7YCB9XadU_7netdCrfLDpQfQkm/s640/blogger-image-1323149173.jpg"></a></div>Courtney Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08517702204559601018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631735175114403905.post-7247986731633247982013-07-28T20:46:00.001-07:002013-07-28T20:46:20.128-07:00Zombies and stewardship<div>Late Wednesday night, my mom flew into town to partake in my Iowa adventure. We went to Zombie burger for a late dinner, and had fun eating the crazy zombie named food, and writing a poem about my burger for the resturaunt. My burger was called "Undead Elvis" and had peanut butter, fried bananas, Baccon, and an egg. I had to try it because of how ridiculous it sounded. It was good one bite, then weird the next - so I left unable to decide my judgment.</div><div><br></div>On Thursday, after staying at Hotel Annie, we drove up to see our friends Steve and Mary Hinderhofer, 2 of the most faithful and giving souls I've ever known. We met these two many years ago building houses in Mexico. The second year we went down with them, we were there when Steve proposed to Mary. And now they have 3 kids! We haven't seen these guys in 4 years, and now they have a houseful. <div><br></div><div>It was great to catch up, play with all their adorable kids (Tommy, Manny and Danny), and be part of some of the amazing stewardship Steve has dedicated his life to. Steve started an organization called "2 Coats," and it is a community support system. The idea is that everyone has 2 coats, and can always spare one for someone in need. This is then generalized to everything in life. People have stuff, time and talent they can spare and share. </div><div><br></div><div>As we all were hanging out in the house, 2 different neighbors stopped by to give them food, stuff they made or stuff from the garden - and we were so surprised! Their community is so giving, and Steve says that happens all the time. The world should be following the example of this small town of Grundy Center, Iowa. </div><div><br></div><div>Steve also started a community garden, where he invites the community to help and harvest, and then he cooks food and they share meal. As I weeded alongside Steve, I realized how much I missed working alongside him. His energy, his passion, his devotion and love for community and God . . . He's one of those guys that inspire you to be a better person. Plus he has a contagious giggle. </div><div><br></div><div>It was so awesome to spend time with these friends. They have a beautiful family, and are amazing parents, and I can't wait to see (and come back to experience!) the difference they will make in the world. </div><div><br></div>At Zombie Burger in Des Moines<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJHbNE3PcARo8MrkHc6bWs7nhy-M6kVBkVPKMI-_wP873PZavVIICDWRFDWDw8n1LamCJBdWcNriB_bYJ8FaJ6pzVxaSL0nRwj7klC7EcpoUPW6nosW7SGqH2n7y-q1Yt4Q5DB1Onw3LnI/s640/blogger-image-1364273553.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJHbNE3PcARo8MrkHc6bWs7nhy-M6kVBkVPKMI-_wP873PZavVIICDWRFDWDw8n1LamCJBdWcNriB_bYJ8FaJ6pzVxaSL0nRwj7klC7EcpoUPW6nosW7SGqH2n7y-q1Yt4Q5DB1Onw3LnI/s640/blogger-image-1364273553.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>Our poem about my burger<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyAvW6pDklSLTOtektLqlylTw7i7PrMl9jc1njYgE7GqdVssrxIXydlBFF3DI5E4jjfd1qfnBmsrBV4k727TNqvMWbeiSU2yt_QCWrCwP3jEZoyqFWlAIDst63aqyJb5aJkQPT7wmM0wYU/s640/blogger-image--13368843.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyAvW6pDklSLTOtektLqlylTw7i7PrMl9jc1njYgE7GqdVssrxIXydlBFF3DI5E4jjfd1qfnBmsrBV4k727TNqvMWbeiSU2yt_QCWrCwP3jEZoyqFWlAIDst63aqyJb5aJkQPT7wmM0wYU/s640/blogger-image--13368843.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>The beautiful Hindys, they are loved and Wanted!<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhta1Ek-2mhBIzr8Bp8gU77u_TsVDQuQrnfMSaVT0RQntu7L1N-CpgyKEn1S_DfTV7tEa_BF1xGBXJEfm_E8KTZ27grGPSUfPQm7ixsolGaQXma4Uhg6nfN6IAWCvhse4panwMXlduX88H/s640/blogger-image--349132243.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhta1Ek-2mhBIzr8Bp8gU77u_TsVDQuQrnfMSaVT0RQntu7L1N-CpgyKEn1S_DfTV7tEa_BF1xGBXJEfm_E8KTZ27grGPSUfPQm7ixsolGaQXma4Uhg6nfN6IAWCvhse4panwMXlduX88H/s640/blogger-image--349132243.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>Steve cooking food in the garden<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZCGtAeUAikjBdb29qMm4YJ-NtmWMrGklzxBDZN1JvrnJiEZrYPPD3ZrsU3_XZPGVX9bV9IKY6Gs8a1pFpyBquoB_7lTSJh9OyNa_c8JMa0FVOU3c4Z32wewLB8GIA8d0Jg2naLRvzZYC4/s640/blogger-image--413375868.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZCGtAeUAikjBdb29qMm4YJ-NtmWMrGklzxBDZN1JvrnJiEZrYPPD3ZrsU3_XZPGVX9bV9IKY6Gs8a1pFpyBquoB_7lTSJh9OyNa_c8JMa0FVOU3c4Z32wewLB8GIA8d0Jg2naLRvzZYC4/s640/blogger-image--413375868.jpg"></a></div>Courtney Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08517702204559601018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631735175114403905.post-19974136564951670862013-07-27T21:31:00.001-07:002013-07-30T11:19:51.797-07:00IowaOn Monday night, I flew into Des Moines to hang out with my soul friend Annie. We met building houses in Mexico, and became friends in the back of the vans making sarcastic comments and causing general mischief. <div><br></div><div>In Des Moines we caught up on life, ate good food and reminisced about 90s music. Iowa has this awesome bike race called Ragbrai, and it's a ride across the state. The riders bike anywhere from 40-90 miles per day, and each town they stop at, there's a big party, concert, food and mayhem. Tuesday night the riders came through Des Moines, and we got to see prep work for the party. We tried to wait for the 10,000 bikers to come zooming past us, but they never really did. We saw about 10. Apparently the rest were at the camp ground down the way. Or were still partying in the city before. </div><div><br></div><div>On Wednesday Annie's best friend Stacy came into town - she also built with us in Mexico. Annie and Stacy are 2 o the funniest people I have ever met, and I got my fill of laughter. </div><div><br></div><div>Apparently I didn't get any pictures of my friends while I was with them! So, these will have to do. . . </div><div><br></div><div>Here is Annie. . . </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqDvcDfT4tIk8VSoh75zaOdHDtsJqNsCQevnYOzaIy5eJ4KIKKamgDc1w9F-Er2wEga1orMg-uhyphenhyphenuWeHfw53sRC13JOHwazP38i1Fn4nffnJRd7xnPyS_vr36rNWBWvbhUs-2wh1iNmKUr/s640/blogger-image--1416971322.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqDvcDfT4tIk8VSoh75zaOdHDtsJqNsCQevnYOzaIy5eJ4KIKKamgDc1w9F-Er2wEga1orMg-uhyphenhyphenuWeHfw53sRC13JOHwazP38i1Fn4nffnJRd7xnPyS_vr36rNWBWvbhUs-2wh1iNmKUr/s640/blogger-image--1416971322.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>And here is Stacy, Whose nickname is Hoody. <br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDlEnq9QrW60cPt9riFWuw9fd6zoQX3Rt9DqYtFR4C4rOi15WchOre7QbljQ61kOEGKBSiH7Xcr_z4aPsp9WhfZjVhKwlbOl9781zACaTGetjG0zzbp7cgPRr4vR4FCMPndUOgc5cNDwDK/s640/blogger-image-1419835412.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDlEnq9QrW60cPt9riFWuw9fd6zoQX3Rt9DqYtFR4C4rOi15WchOre7QbljQ61kOEGKBSiH7Xcr_z4aPsp9WhfZjVhKwlbOl9781zACaTGetjG0zzbp7cgPRr4vR4FCMPndUOgc5cNDwDK/s640/blogger-image-1419835412.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Des Moines Capitol <br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpQVHwSL3qGStihHjw1iIAvAfpS_VER0q7Y6wn_KLVeQLB35kfrRN9bzPy7GDV4Bc1HYedCjWyu8QnpyzoVYYJX5wx7UhaHuJVpVzBbvY_rY4yGXwkykyHmjqvSDTxtqXzvzQd7bDHzy81/s640/blogger-image--705387413.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpQVHwSL3qGStihHjw1iIAvAfpS_VER0q7Y6wn_KLVeQLB35kfrRN9bzPy7GDV4Bc1HYedCjWyu8QnpyzoVYYJX5wx7UhaHuJVpVzBbvY_rY4yGXwkykyHmjqvSDTxtqXzvzQd7bDHzy81/s640/blogger-image--705387413.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>A cool statue full of letters at the Papa John statue park<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgverLSjOaazBNrodM15RXWsvsXWPZITK-Gg0G4mIJ9oiVVVsMMxSFnVoPlRsEJ-75_tzb1mLPxUogY4-ksi3HHBejvo7I4GQsga0uUOi-k60SG2W4ImSHqg0kwUJtT8v5jLeL9tStIiioQ/s640/blogger-image--607675486.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgverLSjOaazBNrodM15RXWsvsXWPZITK-Gg0G4mIJ9oiVVVsMMxSFnVoPlRsEJ-75_tzb1mLPxUogY4-ksi3HHBejvo7I4GQsga0uUOi-k60SG2W4ImSHqg0kwUJtT8v5jLeL9tStIiioQ/s640/blogger-image--607675486.jpg"></a></div>Courtney Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08517702204559601018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631735175114403905.post-48253460828807697082013-07-24T20:30:00.001-07:002013-07-24T20:30:55.129-07:00kambupuSpIWhile visiting New York, I got to stay with one of my very favorite families, the Subaiyas. I met them last year while nannying for their grandson in Boston, and I finally just now took them up on their offer to stay with them in New York. <div><br></div><div>Sheila and Paul are such wonderful and fascinating people - I could listen to their stories for days. They fed me delicious authentic Indian food, and taught me to eat with my fingers - I need lots more practice with that one. Paul took me to church, and I taught Sheila how to play Candy Crush saga. </div><div><br></div><div>I met their beautiful aunt - Auntie, and I spent one evening learning all about Hinduism. I learned a little Sanskrit (kambupuSpI means love in case you were qondering) and watched some Bollywood. </div><div><br></div><div>My favorite part was calling Elizabeth on Skype and letting her meet the family. Together Elizabeth and I learned about a Hindu tradition to honor the deity of wealth and prosperity, Elizabeth got to share some of her art with the family, and Sheila gave Elizabeth a few wedding presents from her prayer room. It was such a fun night, and I love that my sister could be part of it. </div><div><br></div><div>My stay was altogether too short, and I can't wait to be back again! Thank you Paul and Sheil a for all your generosity and sharing so much with me. Blessings to you and Auntie!</div><div><br></div>Sheila showing me the prayer room<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRHQA5DvynD9UEnImAROrzXbJxEm2wrjAgtbAeknCliyZAKJkHtBIj63CngZ8kpQOUkGSvqvyAk1ju-AkLP4q9JkMJvpvZfeoTKtbxMtN1vi7KjwoUSMOcTIXMoC4OeOCFaCinn2Q2Po02/s640/blogger-image-398535173.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRHQA5DvynD9UEnImAROrzXbJxEm2wrjAgtbAeknCliyZAKJkHtBIj63CngZ8kpQOUkGSvqvyAk1ju-AkLP4q9JkMJvpvZfeoTKtbxMtN1vi7KjwoUSMOcTIXMoC4OeOCFaCinn2Q2Po02/s640/blogger-image-398535173.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVl9ksLK2PXcXFl8S-EKygAJbGqzyrsOlnnNRDxf4_GmiAXtYt8M-qVex1rYPvqD4Fi_2Syoo1XMWp1HLLJwDsOxgRxrjncemYIJd94xNdrem-Sy0nH51J7NXh2PblSlwVhipwCSgbTqFE/s640/blogger-image--845974377.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVl9ksLK2PXcXFl8S-EKygAJbGqzyrsOlnnNRDxf4_GmiAXtYt8M-qVex1rYPvqD4Fi_2Syoo1XMWp1HLLJwDsOxgRxrjncemYIJd94xNdrem-Sy0nH51J7NXh2PblSlwVhipwCSgbTqFE/s640/blogger-image--845974377.jpg"></a></div>Courtney Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08517702204559601018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631735175114403905.post-3933019156841843922013-07-22T21:58:00.001-07:002013-07-22T21:58:55.483-07:00New York, New YorkYesterday, taking the advice of my mother, I went to New York for lunch. My gracious host family I was staying with on Long Island put me on a train to spend 7 hours in the city. I had a great day! <div><br></div><div>While many people might choose to visit the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building, I headed straight for FAO Schwartz. I needed to play with some toys and listen to kids laughing. I had a ball! </div><div><br></div><div>Then I had a picnic lunch in Central Park overlooking the city. I went to a candy shop, and climbed the Trump Tower. I found my old roommate from Texas, Cheryl! We only had 20 minutes to catch up, but it was so great to see her and snag a few hugs. </div><div><br></div><div>I ended the day in Times Square at sunset. There were so many people! I climbed a staircase and got to be on one of the jumbo trons. </div><div><br></div><div>As I sprinted toward my train, I couldn't help take a few pictures of people on the street. It made me smile to see people being their crazy, bold selves. I only had 7 hours, short an sweet and just enough for me. </div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpl7GAfYi8CHsYxmhTbaEnk1Nca9myxEUX7rRBIqxUWztF4KOCUmN3hxXee1OOh_HyRvk-rufndQ9CisI1dSrEwOe4mKUIQp2L8pkvlgQrwgeHmdMFq3tfD6D_KFD78X_qkFgZDHw8BbsV/s640/blogger-image--905928504.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpl7GAfYi8CHsYxmhTbaEnk1Nca9myxEUX7rRBIqxUWztF4KOCUmN3hxXee1OOh_HyRvk-rufndQ9CisI1dSrEwOe4mKUIQp2L8pkvlgQrwgeHmdMFq3tfD6D_KFD78X_qkFgZDHw8BbsV/s640/blogger-image--905928504.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>Playing the giant piano from BIG!<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV0kBRRiy2A5WnPg9h05HMEdtfZou1MNayD1GuYdAeiWB2SZfS44Xt55yU4fxYOTQZCZEiXpfX5dYRu0fDNv9pjje2S6tkJVkr_34XzYAbLrjVEb4kww06F-OTdQFwzv7hOhebtzJyPOb9/s640/blogger-image--1308595439.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV0kBRRiy2A5WnPg9h05HMEdtfZou1MNayD1GuYdAeiWB2SZfS44Xt55yU4fxYOTQZCZEiXpfX5dYRu0fDNv9pjje2S6tkJVkr_34XzYAbLrjVEb4kww06F-OTdQFwzv7hOhebtzJyPOb9/s640/blogger-image--1308595439.jpg"></a></div> <div>My view at lunch<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsMgPy0BRgTUbBKSTfAtaz4MoFeP38prScLtETvzp8fCu_ixxXQGK1JTSjm_rQERaTwKlpsqrt0rxXN5sMnqa2-k9yuAX3365ouSwlw4GfbL2ubY2ObgLD034v6YJfIKAK_ijbAe4ea02S/s640/blogger-image--36890301.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsMgPy0BRgTUbBKSTfAtaz4MoFeP38prScLtETvzp8fCu_ixxXQGK1JTSjm_rQERaTwKlpsqrt0rxXN5sMnqa2-k9yuAX3365ouSwlw4GfbL2ubY2ObgLD034v6YJfIKAK_ijbAe4ea02S/s640/blogger-image--36890301.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>My old Roomie!<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTVP1zO0du8w1YdhaHDa18bohPv642XiUk7U3Uu9FP0jkxfA5aXIVpPqrnTw3QhD5lPlXy-p4mE68BnikJFQWS1zrVN7CTWTAfwG1kYN6iulCXrlOaW252tDKoiLMX4EC_wRjblzmzX1zB/s640/blogger-image--1810287418.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTVP1zO0du8w1YdhaHDa18bohPv642XiUk7U3Uu9FP0jkxfA5aXIVpPqrnTw3QhD5lPlXy-p4mE68BnikJFQWS1zrVN7CTWTAfwG1kYN6iulCXrlOaW252tDKoiLMX4EC_wRjblzmzX1zB/s640/blogger-image--1810287418.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>Time Square<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikIAdRhnlSz3DjG3xkiZtyTsvJTdbFGGODHtxwX1DxwHwK8G7bL4-pBoxoICwrDME40xH1xYkDUdPsWRE-aycm9mQI3TzlP38eNMWCn1rSSxUFw9zmYianq0wLW1TYWorOYrAlsHCHoQM4/s640/blogger-image--1307163986.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikIAdRhnlSz3DjG3xkiZtyTsvJTdbFGGODHtxwX1DxwHwK8G7bL4-pBoxoICwrDME40xH1xYkDUdPsWRE-aycm9mQI3TzlP38eNMWCn1rSSxUFw9zmYianq0wLW1TYWorOYrAlsHCHoQM4/s640/blogger-image--1307163986.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>Oh there I am. . . Doing the 'I Love You' sign on the far left of the Jumbo Tron<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaPdo6BiDzz2qC762U6QLU2HHoKZm5DmU6xkbSwuqipe9KbCO1HBAf74_Py0GmZG7t0oBYJvjwiTZfC8SsAn014M_WUoEGr3n-b9zqhMz2vpItslJcqgGsmO6QhSzhR1jwjgMkP2NtnwBN/s640/blogger-image-889001268.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaPdo6BiDzz2qC762U6QLU2HHoKZm5DmU6xkbSwuqipe9KbCO1HBAf74_Py0GmZG7t0oBYJvjwiTZfC8SsAn014M_WUoEGr3n-b9zqhMz2vpItslJcqgGsmO6QhSzhR1jwjgMkP2NtnwBN/s640/blogger-image-889001268.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>And here is Naked Cowboy, as his underwear introduces himself<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCwl8yuozjO2QL4C4q1V7QWfJYLqGsvmexLiZaQamzuQeu7JpUppL-kCx6XTmrgdNC1QwZqYJI620gYjrYbclKpUIH2ABg8VJ5UYLBuROnYCTVr0mPcBN0y8Gdzg7TZbII2JbUHVN2hV23/s640/blogger-image-1346933265.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCwl8yuozjO2QL4C4q1V7QWfJYLqGsvmexLiZaQamzuQeu7JpUppL-kCx6XTmrgdNC1QwZqYJI620gYjrYbclKpUIH2ABg8VJ5UYLBuROnYCTVr0mPcBN0y8Gdzg7TZbII2JbUHVN2hV23/s640/blogger-image-1346933265.jpg"></a></div></div>Courtney Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08517702204559601018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631735175114403905.post-33790891126772702662013-07-21T21:22:00.001-07:002013-07-21T21:22:22.505-07:00Adios ConnecticutIt was definitely hard to leave Connecticut. I spent so much restorative time there - on the water, reading, running on the beach, sitting in a cottage listening to the sounds of the ocean. I absolutely loved my stay, and already look forward to going back. <div><br></div><div>It was so lovely to be able to talk with Therese and spend so much time with my aunt that I don't often see. She is such a wealth of knowledge and has such a genuine soul. On our last days together we went to a Barnum museum (that was under repair due to damage from a tornado) and learned some interesting history of Tom Thumb and Barnum's life as a prankster. And Therese got me hooked on a PBS show we would watch at night - Merlin. </div><div><br></div><div>I always think of David as such a fun uncle, always good for playing outside and joking around. And this time around, I learned from David that his dog Marty McFly is the BEST dog in the world. I tried deny it at first, but that dog seriously is cute. He is David's buddy and follows him everywhere, and Marty was my running buddy a few days.</div><div><br></div><div>I also got to spend much needed time with my cousins I am very impressed with them both. With Matthew, I got to talk about adventure and travel. He has some wanderlust in his soul, and I can't wait to hear where the wind will blow him. I also got to work as crew under him during a sail race, and learned that he runs a tight ship and means business! </div><div><br></div><div>Jason invited me to stay later than I had planned, so that we could spend time when he was off work. So Friday night and Saturday it was just me and Jason - everyone else had left. Jason was so sweet, he took me out to dinner and ice cream. In all the talking we got to do, we learned a lot about each other! And I feel lucky to have him as a cousin - he's a pretty cool guy. And I am in awe of how much self awareness he has, and how focused he is on the goals in his life. I could use some of that laser focus! </div><div>The next day he took me to the cottage, and we took the motorboat out to get lunch at the yacht club. And then I got inducted into a Raymond family tradition. . . Dam building! We built a huge dam, somewhere between 100 and 150 feet long. It was so fun!</div><div><br></div><div>Thank you Raymonds, for taking such good care of me, and showing me such a good time. Love you all! Feel free to send Marty over to me if you get tired of playing fetch with him . . . </div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_AqxEHNGD2WDobc0iFvoXbUiHMGIK0UrLwKwp87FA-nZcRxzS4v5thNXjHPpAkhu9vcY0c295_suRg49vlGk_o0oxFMNvAS655diyMN3GFLH9-UcSo8KUK1h5CxVNKxTZSafgyE4bO5CL/s640/blogger-image-185269722.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_AqxEHNGD2WDobc0iFvoXbUiHMGIK0UrLwKwp87FA-nZcRxzS4v5thNXjHPpAkhu9vcY0c295_suRg49vlGk_o0oxFMNvAS655diyMN3GFLH9-UcSo8KUK1h5CxVNKxTZSafgyE4bO5CL/s640/blogger-image-185269722.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>Marty McFly<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbVZymNKncgylK-w_UE5o4a1Etx7KVstJwN8ve-7VBnGjHJAzBUF5LaxjZ50-zCHWjWdHVtmexeqAIiriGCVUHLj-KfXRWVveycUbc5nTSesagUPPYK3-zBVGPbG2ZnXkOlviTfiW_FEYI/s640/blogger-image-1395238458.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbVZymNKncgylK-w_UE5o4a1Etx7KVstJwN8ve-7VBnGjHJAzBUF5LaxjZ50-zCHWjWdHVtmexeqAIiriGCVUHLj-KfXRWVveycUbc5nTSesagUPPYK3-zBVGPbG2ZnXkOlviTfiW_FEYI/s640/blogger-image-1395238458.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>Jason and I channeling our inner Beaver, and building a dam<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizB_odezoDF6dKjPvGdzpcwuLZewH2lu21bOlEi51fDkcd0Qu7rccXhmqjorMyK1sTaJXjJhj3ygsg1bK2DFNIUcfSKYeCv1pS1gstNGtmGNarHjnn8GmF13akUa2ZZ-Jzv2N0mmHleQIN/s640/blogger-image-1547010220.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizB_odezoDF6dKjPvGdzpcwuLZewH2lu21bOlEi51fDkcd0Qu7rccXhmqjorMyK1sTaJXjJhj3ygsg1bK2DFNIUcfSKYeCv1pS1gstNGtmGNarHjnn8GmF13akUa2ZZ-Jzv2N0mmHleQIN/s640/blogger-image-1547010220.jpg"></a></div>Courtney Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08517702204559601018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631735175114403905.post-89065256208784417602013-07-19T21:13:00.002-07:002013-07-19T21:13:55.118-07:00Reclaim Your YouthI'm reading a book right now called "The Mastery of Love." It is a beautiful book talking about the human condition, and how to reconnect with our true, authentic selves. And do you know what author Don Miguel Ruiz and the ancient Mexican Toltec tell us our authentic selves are . . . . . the children inside us!<br />
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This idea is a recurring theme that has come up for me over the last year. Nearly a year ago, I attended a workshop that helped me start rekindling the relationship with that little girl inside me - and I just don't want to stop! As children, we are free from stress, worry, and care. If you watch children, they don't care about anybody else's opinion. They are in tune with their physical needs and emotions, asking and expressing as they need. We are born as innocent, loving, beautiful beings full of wonder and imagination. The outer world changes this in us. We need to live up to expectations, we want to impress people, we need to fit into the "rules" of life that have arbitrarily been created for us. We are taught to fear people, fear failure, fear being alone, etc. And we internalize those fears, and start having dangerous monologues in our own head against ourselves. <br />
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A few months ago in my blog, I posted a letter that asked, "Do you like the company you keep, even in the quiet moments?" For a long time I didn't. Part of my journey has been not only about seeing love in other people, but also about turning that love inwards. Part of this journey has been to love my own company. And a big part of that, has been re-learning how to play. And dream. And catch bugs, sing in front of people, do magic tricks, and laugh and cry unapologetically. <br />
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A few weeks ago in Hawaii, my 6 year old buddy Hudson said to me, "Courtney, you're not grown-up yet." And just yesterday, my cousin said, "Courtney, what do you want to be when you grow up?" When I grow up, I want to be a kid.<br />
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A really cool day is coming up soon - Reclamation of Youth Day. My old roommates ex-boyfriend started this awesome tradition, boys getting together once a year to reclaim their youth. All day long, dozens of boys converge in Bellingham to play all day. They build forts, play ball, scream and shout. . . .and no girls are allowed! I love, love, love this tradition. They throw away the silly stresses, to-do lists and everything that can bog us down as adults. . . .and they rekindle that loud, playful relationship with their inner-kid. Have you played lately?<br />
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"Adulthood smells like poop - it's time to go reclaim our youth!"<br />
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Courtney Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08517702204559601018noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631735175114403905.post-47944248278779559102013-07-18T16:09:00.002-07:002013-07-18T16:09:34.638-07:00Life is Life<br />
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<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}" style="color: #333333; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.38;">“Life is an opportunity, benefit from it.<br />Life is beauty, admire it.<br />Life is a dream, realize it.<br />Life is a challenge, meet it.<br />Life is a duty, complete it.<br /><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;">Life is a game, play it.<br />Life is a promise, fulfill it.<br />Life is sorrow, overcome it.<br />Life is a song, sing it.<br />Life is a struggle, accept it.<br />Life is a tragedy, confront it.<br />Life is an adventure, dare it.<br />Life is luck, make it.<br />Life is too precious, do not destroy it.<br />Life is life, fight for it.”<br />― Mother Teresa</span></span></h5>
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Courtney Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08517702204559601018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631735175114403905.post-16480773243506349652013-07-17T21:15:00.001-07:002013-07-17T21:46:21.009-07:00Sail!I have had such a wonderful day - one that I imagine Connecticut would be like. I went to a 4 hour luncheon with Therese and her two friends from church. Janette was the hostess, and Mary is the priest's wife at St. Timothy's Episcopal church. I told the ladies that this was the fanciest meal I'd ever eaten! We started on the porch with delicious goat cheese and mango chutney horderves with wine. We sat and talked for a couple hours, then moved inside for a delicious broccoli and ham omelette casserole. After this we ate a bowl of fruit - all of this on beautiful china mind you. And then came dessert! We had raspberry chocolate mousse and coffee. The food was absolutely delicious, and the company was wonderful. These were strong, beautiful, progressive, passionate women. And it was so empowering to be in their presence. We talked about everything from religion, education, and gay marriage, to traveling, cooking and palm reading. Therese is very lucky to have such a lovely community of friends - and I hope to cross paths with them again!<br />
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After an afternoon with the ladies, I went out with the boys. I joined David, Jason and Matthew on their boat to race. Every Wednesday, the boys race. It was a beautiful evening, and was cool to see all the sails out on the water. One thing I learned - it's hard to learn how to sail in the middle of a race. Everyone is super busy running around, yelling orders, pulling ropes and grinding gears and messing with sails - and I was just trying to not get knocked off the boat. I learned quickly - thanks to some rope burns and bruises - when to duck my head, get off a rope, and move to the other side of the boat. There were a few times I went to do my job, but I wasn't fast enough, and Matthew would leap down and take over. After the first few times we tacked (which I think means switching the side the sail is on) I got the hang of the roles and the energy of the crew, and did ok. I managed to organize the spinnaker sail that had to go up, and it went up perfect! I was very proud. In the moments that weren't frantic, we got to all sit hanging off one side of the boat to level out the weight. It was really fun - but I think I'd like to learn the lingo of sailing before doing it in a race again. Oh - and we got 2nd place! Which I thought was pretty cool.<br />
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I'm still loving the life over here on the east coast. Fancy luncheons and racing sailboats? That's a pretty good life.<br />
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This was my lovely luncheon crew! Mary, Janette and Therese.<br />
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Boats getting ready to start the race - lining up!<br />
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The sunsets here are so gorgeous!<br />
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Courtney Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08517702204559601018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631735175114403905.post-89508935175859762222013-07-15T19:46:00.002-07:002013-07-15T19:54:55.377-07:00Row, Row, Row Your BoatI came into Connecticut yesterday - and have been having such a blast! I've always considered this family as my Adventurous family. My uncle David and cousins Matthew and Jason are avid sailors and water sport-ers. They kayak, wake board, water ski, canoe, sail, motor boat. . . . and are in the sunshine so much they all look like they live in Hawaii. I remember family reunions, and these boys were hiking barefoot through bramble, building dams in creeks, and bear crawling to the tops of mountains. In the last 2 days, I have already been in 4 different boats!<br />
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Yesterday was very lovely - I started off at church with Therese. I loved her small congregation - everyone knew each other and was so nice. After church, we all gathered under a tent for snacks and friendship. Therese walked me around the grounds of her church - and I was amazed! The grounds are beautiful, and the community has built the space with such intention. A labyrinth was built to help guide meditation towards peace. A beautiful garden is tended and harvested all for a local food pantry. This congregation used to be larger, but when debates came up regarding same sex marriage - the people were split. The priest was pro-humanity, and so everyone against gay marriage left, leaving a beautiful group of loving, dedicated people. Father Matt welcomed me personally during the service, and as we left he said, "Walk in Love." <br />
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After a delicious breakfast, Therese and I met David and Matthew on their big sail boat, and we took it out for the afternoon. Matthew and I each had a turn tangling off the boat in a chair attached to the top sail. It was so fun!!! And very surprising when the boat would lean and you'd hit the water harder than expected. As my feet were skimming the water and I felt like I was flying, I thought. . . . this is a life I could get used to. <br />
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Today Therese and I took some sea kayaks out for a 3 hour ride. The weather is crazy hot out here, but on the water it's so much cooler - so we've been on the water constantly since I got here. Our kayak ride was very relaxing - we wound through some grassy marshland, saw beautiful birds, and had lunch in Bermuda Lagoon - which wasn't as ominous as the name suggests.<br />
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After this we went to the family cottage right on the beach. Part of the cottage had been destroyed during Hurricane Sandy, so I got to see the rebuilt porch. The food was delicious, and the company was great. Then Jason decided to take me for a cruise in the motor boat. This was super fun - but I forgot that he has his dad's mischevious side, and I should have been holding on better. A quick spin sent me flying, and I learned my lesson! I held on for dear life, and then had a great time. The sky was breathtakingly beautiful, and Jason even let me try my hand at driving. After the boat, I tried to show Jason up with my rusty crew skills in the canoe. . . but he was much better than me. Living on the water for 19 years beats out my 4 seasons of crew. . . .surprise!<br />
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I absolutely love the water - and have definitely been getting my fill. Yesterday David said, "I don't like to watch sports. I'd just as soon rather get out and do them." And that is definitely how this family lives - and I love it! <br />
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Matthew in the chair that hung off the boat<br />
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The center of the meditation labyrinth at Therese's church<br />
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Birds on our Kayak trip<br />
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Jason, my boat driver<br />
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The beautiful sky!!<br />
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Courtney Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08517702204559601018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631735175114403905.post-63380283824520711812013-07-13T18:53:00.001-07:002013-07-15T19:56:21.994-07:00I Have a DreamYesterday, I spent my last day with Debra and Chuck, and they took me to my favorite city - DC! I only had a few hours before I had to catch a bus, but we were able to cram so much in! <br />
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We started at Arlington Cemetary, where we visited the Kennedy's and the grave of the unknown soldiers. This grave was really moving because there is always someone on guard, protecting and honoring all unnamed soldiers. We saw the changing of the guard, and it felt very important watching them. I felt like it is a very moving way to forever honor the fallen men and women whose families don't have a grave to visit. </div>
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Next, we sprinted to the Lincoln Memorial where I wanted to visit MLK Jr. I stood where he gave his "I have a dream" speech, and I listened to his speech as I stood there. It was so powerful to connect with him and history in that way. And as I listened to him speak about his dream of a world where one day, black and white people can stand hand in hand . . . I looked out at the throngs of people, dozens of races in the same space, I saw black and white holding hands. Standing in the shadow of Lincoln, hearing the words of Martin Luther King, and seeing his dream in front of me . . . That was a pretty powerful moment. It energized me with the need to be part of his important work. "In spite of the difficulties and frustrations of the moment, I still have a dream." I want to still hold onto dreams, even when life can get hard. </div>
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After this, we saw the new MLK Jr. Memorial statue, and then off to the depression era. FDR's memorial was very cool. It was a walk through his terms as president, with statues and quotes from each term. His words were pretty inspirational, and the monument was very moving. </div>
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Chuck and Debra were such good sports, sprinting around with me so I could get my fill of inspiration. With a quick sprint to the bus station, I was on my way! Thank you Debra and Chuck, for taking such good of me, spoiling me, and teaching me so much. Until next time!</div>
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Changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown<br />
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Marks the spot MLK Jr. Stood for his speech<br />
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"Out of a mountain of despair, a stone of hope"<br />
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Me and FDR<br />
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The bread line<br />
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Me, Debra and Chuck on my way to the bus<br />
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What's your dream?</div>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/smEqnnklfYs" width="420"></iframe>Courtney Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08517702204559601018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631735175114403905.post-64706470366597925192013-07-13T15:23:00.001-07:002013-07-13T15:23:48.993-07:00Mr. PresidentsOn Thursday my Aunt Debra and I went to 3 states, and yesterday we visited 3 president's homes. We started the day off with a tour of James Madison's home. With all the homes, the Heritage foundation is researching and restoring. When they can't find the original items owned by these presidents, they get period pieces to fill the house. <div><br></div><div>Madison's house was beautiful! The drive up to his place alone was breathtaking. I loved learning about Dolly Madison, and her role within the whitehouse - and how, when the British burned down the White House, she saved the painting of George Washington. </div><div><br></div><div>Next we went to Jefferson's house, and this was my favorite. He loved inventions and science, and he turned the first room of his house into a museum to educate guests while they waited for him. "There is not a sprig of grass that grows uninteresting to me." I love that quote because it shows how curious and fascinated he was with the world. I loved his library and study best of all! He once told Adams, "I cannot live without books." Same here Jefferson! His house was full of inventions and gadgets. </div><div><br></div><div>Last we saw James Monroe's old place. It was the smallest and most modest of them all. One of the things I loved learning about through all three houses, was their slaves. </div><div><br></div><div>All 3 men acknowledged slavery as a bad thing and yet they all had slaves! Jefferson had 600! Madison and Jefferson passionately spoke of slavery as a "thorn" and a travesty, but also said they didn't know what to do about it. They couldn't extricate themselves from this societal norm. Monroe, president number 5, was the first to take action. He made the slave trade from Africa illegal, and if any incoming ships had slaves, he sent them to a safe zone called Monroeville back in Africa. But he still had his own slaves. Of Jefferson's 600 slaves, he only freed 7 - all family members of his children from Sally Hemmings. Interesting to that he should love one of his enslaved women, have 4 children with her, and not be at the forefront of ending the institution. </div><div><br></div><div>It was such a wonderful day, full of history. It was neat to walk the same floor these great men of our past built. It felt so connecting to stand in the rooms these men sat in, toiling and debating over these issues in our Nations' past. And Debra is such a history buff, that she was perfect to go with. </div><div><br></div>Reading a book with Dolly and James<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaKZutzAf9O0SVRYMPsNs2Kg-jsB0ZLtZwEnh1iu094B0ppF9xPkTG70KafZHJ0uJ0RP6oHHxzDwllmxknTeMVp30q7ydJ4lrHqrSfHdMrIHIMJZLQMFP41UCPLf4t1uUmdkVV0TP1_4h0/s640/blogger-image-375377037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaKZutzAf9O0SVRYMPsNs2Kg-jsB0ZLtZwEnh1iu094B0ppF9xPkTG70KafZHJ0uJ0RP6oHHxzDwllmxknTeMVp30q7ydJ4lrHqrSfHdMrIHIMJZLQMFP41UCPLf4t1uUmdkVV0TP1_4h0/s640/blogger-image-375377037.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>Driving up to the Madison household!<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSSjmBiUBIN3kSiyLfG92F8ZigI_vyiMVgJ87UZ8irNi9MNsOP-aTvwgpWkTwOPAjBbyom8mGQ0aMfoBgcYZ9gg_8y4ay84kL7SaQBt5VBDa0_msRc4NCAkGSEpZFEncOUsC174wpwZSfb/s640/blogger-image--16796058.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSSjmBiUBIN3kSiyLfG92F8ZigI_vyiMVgJ87UZ8irNi9MNsOP-aTvwgpWkTwOPAjBbyom8mGQ0aMfoBgcYZ9gg_8y4ay84kL7SaQBt5VBDa0_msRc4NCAkGSEpZFEncOUsC174wpwZSfb/s640/blogger-image--16796058.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>Jefferson's house<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0naq9hsX5LnuTy_OQgw7NCJODiuLpsXC2sJEgFhDztOATKTy4OcaIOFggTm0zqNqIn4hdsi7cZklKu3wQK2zekxgJHOJYs6zWhRcG8seNREfbvnQ9mbdnGH0Z09qQZ2wFpHtXseUxovMZ/s640/blogger-image--1856593171.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0naq9hsX5LnuTy_OQgw7NCJODiuLpsXC2sJEgFhDztOATKTy4OcaIOFggTm0zqNqIn4hdsi7cZklKu3wQK2zekxgJHOJYs6zWhRcG8seNREfbvnQ9mbdnGH0Z09qQZ2wFpHtXseUxovMZ/s640/blogger-image--1856593171.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>Jefferson's grave. This is what he wanted on his tomb stone. He did not want to be remembered as a politician. <br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjLaqlUYyO_4THMhkT-NLqba-40tmLG9h96B9tsndnUuYXljVbPKgOHMy8YG4d0dSZ5Xd0MLqvZt-pljcBceUqxL_RG2L4XTKUhr77uwCWO0oecFTOcGfPSxGCfPAZvH81DMenc-s4sWJw/s640/blogger-image--654904451.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjLaqlUYyO_4THMhkT-NLqba-40tmLG9h96B9tsndnUuYXljVbPKgOHMy8YG4d0dSZ5Xd0MLqvZt-pljcBceUqxL_RG2L4XTKUhr77uwCWO0oecFTOcGfPSxGCfPAZvH81DMenc-s4sWJw/s640/blogger-image--654904451.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>I love these!<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh00LFOSMqc6NpHvaJu10mlrlo4dcToVE7lREWqHfK65YY8_TMgtRb0SHZTmT_pyvN0W4TbaNZLvMtUOSEWYgegAVsGdVLMLpPnW8w3dx_4xfMT47cuzKT4eLYmJaRgRA8NN9OfTkNPmQFb/s640/blogger-image-1919066738.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh00LFOSMqc6NpHvaJu10mlrlo4dcToVE7lREWqHfK65YY8_TMgtRb0SHZTmT_pyvN0W4TbaNZLvMtUOSEWYgegAVsGdVLMLpPnW8w3dx_4xfMT47cuzKT4eLYmJaRgRA8NN9OfTkNPmQFb/s640/blogger-image-1919066738.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>James Monroe <br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxRtShzHDu74guH83rBNuwBzIAJZSXLlkhH4sdyTZD1REMP34VhxRJBr1532ddbw4TcRX3NdpgZd4W88lc8JD4fnCAtwC236fq8QLnQmqlMvIF2nVKyoy9trmplD7SmytmofnwBgxsq9L4/s640/blogger-image--345056692.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxRtShzHDu74guH83rBNuwBzIAJZSXLlkhH4sdyTZD1REMP34VhxRJBr1532ddbw4TcRX3NdpgZd4W88lc8JD4fnCAtwC236fq8QLnQmqlMvIF2nVKyoy9trmplD7SmytmofnwBgxsq9L4/s640/blogger-image--345056692.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>Debra leading the way into Monroe's house <br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjorUDvqIrOt43fSbFkFkWnX-3b1TWhsUI4ktOg2DHdsm3PptFgEOThx6vC8l1g8KVLm4VTnptnCO8oHWezARzJxAihP59KhUt7x7EQZV5bafhN9LVV82cHpblDsWIPCER2TtqMPp62NAFD/s640/blogger-image--1205437805.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjorUDvqIrOt43fSbFkFkWnX-3b1TWhsUI4ktOg2DHdsm3PptFgEOThx6vC8l1g8KVLm4VTnptnCO8oHWezARzJxAihP59KhUt7x7EQZV5bafhN9LVV82cHpblDsWIPCER2TtqMPp62NAFD/s640/blogger-image--1205437805.jpg"></a></div>Courtney Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08517702204559601018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631735175114403905.post-83121483042796114612013-07-12T19:10:00.001-07:002013-07-13T17:17:03.512-07:00Dance!Some things just stick with you. Matt and his round the world dancing has stuck with me. I think he is beautiful and inspirational. I find kinship in his adventurous sprit, and I find hope and love in his dancing across the world. He made his first video, dancing his own dance. His second dance streak is years later, and he goes beyond doing his own dance and starts learning dances of the people. These videos give me a goose-bumpy feeling of connection with the wod. They make me smile, bring tears to my eyes, and give me hope. I can't quite explain it. I wonder, how do they make you feel? They make me want to dance! And explore and share the world. I shared this with my aunt tonight, and it inspired me all over again. <br>
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This is Matt's original video. . .<br>
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And this is Matt's newest dance-ploration. . . .<br>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/Pwe-pA6TaZk" width="560"></iframe>Courtney Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08517702204559601018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631735175114403905.post-82401694018527091492013-07-11T20:45:00.001-07:002013-07-12T07:04:35.807-07:00EntourageThe past two nights I have been with my Aunt Debra and her husband Chuck in Virginia. I don't think I've had much time with Debra all to myself, and its been great getting to talk all day. Debra is someone whose passion I have always admired. She is an animal activist to her core, and her home has become refuge for 6 dogs. Today, as they all followed me around the house, I said, "It's kind of fun to have your own entourage everywhere you go." And Debra said, "You always feel completely loved and adored." Dogs are so good for that. <div><br></div><div>I have never watched a zombie movie before, and in the last 3 days I've managed 2! Last night we watched Sean of the Dead. And that isn't scary at all. At least with those Zombies I think I stand good odds at living. With World War Z's breed I'd be a goner. </div><div><br></div><div>Today Debra and I went to Harper's Ferry in West Virginia - a beautiful, quaint town sitting between the Shanendoah and Potomac Rivers. We got our fill of history, then headed on a 20 mile bike ride starting in Brunswick, Maryland, down through West Virginia. One day - 3 states! </div><div><br></div><div>I have adored hanging out with Debra - her poetic words (she is a brilliant writer and beautiful with language) and good company are good for my soul, and her delicious vegan food is good for my belly! I am off to bed, followed by my entourage of 6 adoring fans.</div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzNSBjmb15aDdW0vi47GYAsLkjSiIKgMtj6Csjv0O1g3kPpTK21VAq11Ur2hS2CukjjXP9USwYa-urJxfR_fiysvwTNbKmwj5u01qxVHDf48L_j3KLkVPuuh869GHkwTB23ytTd38Jh4c2/s640/blogger-image-1690402413.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzNSBjmb15aDdW0vi47GYAsLkjSiIKgMtj6Csjv0O1g3kPpTK21VAq11Ur2hS2CukjjXP9USwYa-urJxfR_fiysvwTNbKmwj5u01qxVHDf48L_j3KLkVPuuh869GHkwTB23ytTd38Jh4c2/s640/blogger-image-1690402413.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsTyVm8iaKAjGZPFTjt5vnrV4ujLwWQOz95X6QXoIEqJFk2shQtYCW4eBeXvAv8IDPTJqW6l7FIAwTztOzo5U6RR0vdTnaqLYCld15VWgT8JbdJV20EKKStqVZ2RdboqIQatQYGTHaeo0n/s640/blogger-image-592549747.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsTyVm8iaKAjGZPFTjt5vnrV4ujLwWQOz95X6QXoIEqJFk2shQtYCW4eBeXvAv8IDPTJqW6l7FIAwTztOzo5U6RR0vdTnaqLYCld15VWgT8JbdJV20EKKStqVZ2RdboqIQatQYGTHaeo0n/s640/blogger-image-592549747.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6zSoL1oM1Y3kb4w0zi-ZgJc8pK7ldilclzDo-mcM-gsRJD_yVu27jNnHiNECnvGegWfuL8x7lBpcjJxpVQPNITWoyADid63YSdtSgRYMDUM2BQZU3L6uG2n1rz5CJNYllNdgMC_RlR7ha/s640/blogger-image-2090009976.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6zSoL1oM1Y3kb4w0zi-ZgJc8pK7ldilclzDo-mcM-gsRJD_yVu27jNnHiNECnvGegWfuL8x7lBpcjJxpVQPNITWoyADid63YSdtSgRYMDUM2BQZU3L6uG2n1rz5CJNYllNdgMC_RlR7ha/s640/blogger-image-2090009976.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdJUZSvFFx0RtgANPDegIedMFnRhTStCq8qZVji789nQI_0BLoqtW78W91MU7PM3491me_asN9duLCMcX6FFTnwXyVxACh1nUOEVCPxZqB_2O0kPnsevbC28kTij80o1-ZRM4DUItPZW_8/s640/blogger-image-1791534613.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdJUZSvFFx0RtgANPDegIedMFnRhTStCq8qZVji789nQI_0BLoqtW78W91MU7PM3491me_asN9duLCMcX6FFTnwXyVxACh1nUOEVCPxZqB_2O0kPnsevbC28kTij80o1-ZRM4DUItPZW_8/s640/blogger-image-1791534613.jpg"></a></div>Courtney Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08517702204559601018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631735175114403905.post-31032765549344531572013-07-09T23:20:00.002-07:002013-07-09T23:20:28.324-07:00Thanks Zach and Kim!I have had such a great stay with Kim and Zach! The thing that I always love about my family, is that no matter ho long its been since we've seen each other - we always jump right in like we've been hanging out every day. It's so easy with my family - and I feel pretty blessed in that respect. <br />
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It's been lovely catching up with these two - hearing about the amazing things they've done this year, seeing the way they've grown with each other, catching up on life, playing games, and eating candy (there were a few sugar highs involved). <br />
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Today we went to a bird sanctuary, I got to see the school where Kim works, I got a tour of the neighborhood and local creatures on a walk through their golf-course-backyard, and we played in the pool. <br />
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Since I hadn't had a phone for a week, and no internet access, I did spent a lot of time borrowing computers and phones to catch up on travel details and communication . . . .but Kim and Zach are super easy going, and we still had lots of time for hanging out, and playing.<br />
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I am super proud of my cousins for taking this adventure opportunity, rocking it, and for all the people they are helping in their community. Happy Early 1 year anniversary Kim and Zach! Thanks for taking care of me.<br />
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Tomorrow, I'm of to Virginia to spend some time with my Aunt Debra.<br />
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Wearing 70 year old, cob webby fire hats, probably illegally, next to the old fire truck from 1870. </div>
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The adorable couple</div>
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Kim petting a baby duck. She wants one bad, and her birthday is coming up. . . .<br />
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This was my favorite bird. Some crazy thing from Africa.<br />
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The world's most dangerous animals!<br />
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This picture doesn't do justice to the swarm of birds that were on our heads, shoulders, and feet most times. There were usually an average of 6 birds per person at any time. <br />
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Getting our swim face on<br />
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<br />Courtney Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08517702204559601018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631735175114403905.post-85206977413152457502013-07-08T23:04:00.001-07:002013-07-09T07:27:46.344-07:00Rocky MountMy days have been so full of travelling! After flying to DC from Seattle, I had to catch a train to North Carolina. My train was delayed, and delayed and delayed! I spent some quality time in Union Station befriending a police officer - and a crazy pigeon that was either trying to attack me or mate with me. I finally got to my cousins Kim and Zach in Rocky Mount, NC by 3:30 am. <br />
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After some much needed recovery sleep, I woke up at 2 the next afternoon. We have been playing games, talking, eating NC style BBQ (everyone's BBQ is so different!), visiting a fire station museum (where the old school fire engine's blew my mind!) and going on a walk in the park to chase ducks and turtles. Tonight we saw the movie World War Z, and it has me feeling like I should go to a zombie survival boot camp. . . .just to be safe. <br />
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Kim and Zach are doing so well here! It's been awesome to hear how amazing Kim has done with her job in Teach for America. Kimberly is someone who I have always said I could use a crash course in gumption and grit from - so it is no surprise that she easily garnered the respect from all her students and staff. And Zack graduated top of his class at his training course for Basic Law Enforcement Training (which he got full sponsorship for!). Now he is just going through the interview process.<br />
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Super proud of both these people, and am glad I can spend time in their new home!<br />
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And since I still don't have a phone, and can't take pictures. . . . . .<br />
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Here we are playing cards. Zach put on a smile just for this picture. Really. . . .he was crying because I whooped him.<br />
<img height="175" src="http://research.ncl.ac.uk/media/designsuppliers/readysalted/livewell/playing%20cards.jpg" width="400" /><br />
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Here is the old Fire Truck we saw at the museum. <br />
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Here are the turtles we were chasing around the pond<br />
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And here are the zombies we saw tonight<br />
<img height="400" src="http://themetapicture.com/media/funny-zombie-fingers-paint-art.jpg" width="361" />Courtney Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08517702204559601018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631735175114403905.post-6664294009244964122013-07-07T20:21:00.002-07:002013-07-07T20:21:45.287-07:00The Smell of MemoriesTwo days ago, when I was back in Washington for my 2 day layover, I got some much needed family time. I got to spend the 4th of July with my Cline Family - playing volleyball, watching fireworks, and getting pelted with candy from parents on the deck (a very dangerous activity for those - like me!- without insurance). I spent the evening around the fire, catching up with family.<br />
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On Friday, I had a beautiful, surprise evening. As my Grandma Karen came over, and I was learning a bit about my family history from Zwingle, Iowa - my last stop on this trip. I wanted to know more!! So my mom and I headed over to my grandma's house to unearth some memories - we pulled out a box of letters and old pictures, photo albums, and old family documents. I love the smell of memories! It was so wonderful to sit there, 3 generations of women, enjoying the evening connecting with our history. <br />
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I love learning about where I come from - this is the second time this trip I have had this experience. There is something so connecting and grounding in it for me. And I loved that evening with 2 of my favorite women. We laughed, read letters from my great, great grandma, and reminisced. I love hearing stories about my ancestors. My Grandma Karen is one of my favorite people, and I love being around her. She is so fun to be around - I always feel like I can be my silly, true self around her - no pretenses. And I love the memory of that night, listening to her read letters from her mother. And watching her delicately hold pictures from her past. <br />
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I am so excited to explore this part of my family in Zwingle!! <br />
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Me and Grandma, looking through the family Bible A list of marriages in our family<br />
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My Great, Great, Great, Great Grandparents A dance card and poem from my Great Grandma<br />
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My Great Grandma Ethel Estella Ethel Estella's H.S. Diploma, she graduated at 14!<br />
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3 generations of amazing women! The awesome old books<br />
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Me and my Beautiful Grandma<br />
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<br />Courtney Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08517702204559601018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631735175114403905.post-1157948002348802672013-07-06T00:00:00.001-07:002013-07-06T03:45:55.961-07:00GraceYesterday on my flight from Hawaii to Seatlle, I was sitting in a row with 1 woman - and we had an empty space between us. I was going to say hello, but she dove straight into a movie, and I dove straight into a book. We didn't speak for 5 hours of the flight - it's amazing how easy it is not to speak to people, even when you are right next to each other for such a long period of time! As she was returning her Digi Player, I had just written in my journal that I wanted to learn more about the art of meditation. The woman leaned over and said, "I like your hair cut." She was so quiet, I didn't realize she was talking to me. I looked around and back again, jumped a little and said, "Thanks!" We had finally started talking. . . .just as we were descending. I found out that she was actually on her way to Idaho for a meditation conference. I was so excited! I told her I had just written minutes before that I felt the need for meditation in my life. It was absolute serendipity. <br />
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The woman, in her very calm and quiet way, smiled big and told me she would love to share some resources with me. She started to name off some meditation masters I could study and learn from. I asked her how long meditation had been in her life. She closed her eyes, remembering, "Since I was three. My dad used to sit us down for 5 minutes each day, and we had to sit in a quiet space, focusing on ourselves, and our inner beauty." Can you imagine? Thinking about your inner beauty at age 3? How amazing. <br />
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I was furiously writing as this woman kept talking, because everything she said was so graceful. She talked about "this experience of life" as being beautiful, and we are meant to shine our inner lights. <br />
"We are all masters of our own being. No one can tell you your own path, you are your own master." <br />
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She talked about the purpose of life being to acknowledge the beauty that is within all of us, which she called the eye of our being. Our inner beauty is what we see with, what can guide us and help us shine. <br />
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The plane taxied into the tarmac, and the seat belt light went off. As everyone was grabbing their luggage, this woman said "Everything that you are seeking in life is already inside you." She tapped her heart, and pointed to mine, and nodded. Staring at her, I felt this incredible warmth through my body. I smiled my biggest smile in days and nodded. I thought 'this is why I am on this journey. For moments like this.' And her words, with her beautiful, quiet, soft demeanor were so powerful for me. I think I was smiling, and gawking at her for quite a while, and she just kept nodding and tapping her heart. She had an amazing glow about her - her hair was a blond gray, and the way the light from the airplane window was hitting behind her - I thought she looked like an angel. <br />
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I asked her "What's your name?" And she replied, "Grace." How perfect! I told her I had recently been doing some self-growth work and had found out that Grace is a powerful thing that runs in the women in my family, and I had recently decided that I was also full of grace. She smiled her smile and said, "Yes you are Courtney." Then she got off the plane. I followed her. Right at the end of the walkway, I looked up for 1 second to find the baggage claim sign, then looked back to where Grace was walking and she was gone. I couldn't see her down any hallway. I was pretty blown away by that interaction, and I'm pretty sure she was some sort of angel. My Angel, Grace.<br />
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<img src="http://qualitylivingmadesimple.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Grace.jpg" />Courtney Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08517702204559601018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631735175114403905.post-40379344785832416392013-07-03T00:36:00.002-07:002013-07-03T00:37:50.530-07:00Gratitude<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px;">So - the past 2 days have been a pretty good test of the reason I'm on this journey!! Yesterday, my phone got water damage in the ocean - and the salt water corroded my poor little (new) i-phone. In the process of trying to save my phone from the water, my favorite ring came off and was lost in the ocean. It was a ring my mom bought me 11 years ago when she was in Hawaii - my sisters, my mom and I had matching rings. </span><br />
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I don't care about the phone - but. . . .all the pictures and video from my trip were lost. That has been a big bummer to get over. And of course!!! I didn't back up my stuff like every person this century knows you should. "Tsk, Tsk." </div>
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As I've been pretty emotional about losing these sentimental things for me, I had to laugh a bit. I came on this journey with the intention to find love, hope, and positivity every day. Even when people around me might be stressed, or going through hard times, or even if I was feeling wonky - "Don't worry, be happy!" Alright Courtney, here's your test!</div>
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So, my silver linings. I didn't lose my left pinky toe to a shark in the water - just my data to that wiley salt. If I had to lose my favorite ring, it's fitting that it should be lost in the same place my Mom bought it for me. And even though I had to pay a HUGE deductible for a new phone, and even though I'm phone-less for the next 3 days while in transit (not having a phone makes you realize how much you depend on it). . ..I came home to my amazing temporary family and they made me feel better. The kids had no idea what I had been through, and they just jumped right in to playing with me the moment I walked through the door. I really think there's nothing like a mob of kids lightening up and getting so excited to see you. </div>
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Here is a little video that I love. My aunt once shared it with me, and it's such a good reminder to spend time in Gratitude, rather than frustration and regret. So, as I go to bed, I am choosing to breathe into gratitude!!</div>
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What are you grateful for today?Courtney Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08517702204559601018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631735175114403905.post-58123874558664751962013-06-30T02:54:00.001-07:002013-06-30T11:25:25.468-07:00Play!So, for my second week in Hawaii, I have been hanging out with the Acker family on their amazing vacation on the beach. Susan and Pete Acker are celebrating their 49th anniversary, and they decided on a Hawaiian vacation with their family to celebrate - a pretty good choice. They have three kids, and each of them has three kids. So all week I've been hanging out with 9 little kiddos - swimming in the pool, playing go-fish, sharing Roald Dahl books, and chasing them with my luchador mask. The grown ups keep asking me 'why do you keep hanging out with them? Relax! Come hang out with us!' But. . . I love hanging out with kids! And this bunch of kids is pretty awesome. Hanging out with these kids keeps me smiling, and keeps my curiosity about life churning. Today I met a centipede, tried to catch tadpoles, played animal tag, tried to crack a coconut, and made up fantastical stories about adventures with sea creatures. We also made Lei's and had a hula dancing lesson. Playing all day . . . and I'm in this absolutely gorgeous home, with sunshine and water everywhere. Right now I'm laying in bed, listening to the ocean. I could get used to this. <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY2Ff63vzPcoayK6IXE2ORfSFAs9SRFG6tAf5tldM1AznzxZVW93jUM4a2kNELMSlE6ps2plSsA25RkcBK0lC5JpqCd9GkxQqG2Ltc9S6g-1jj0KsaFkWNNweRo77u0l6VkAdawCpxJJNr/s640/blogger-image-394731435.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY2Ff63vzPcoayK6IXE2ORfSFAs9SRFG6tAf5tldM1AznzxZVW93jUM4a2kNELMSlE6ps2plSsA25RkcBK0lC5JpqCd9GkxQqG2Ltc9S6g-1jj0KsaFkWNNweRo77u0l6VkAdawCpxJJNr/s640/blogger-image-394731435.jpg" /></a></div> <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxLrpepYong2EAYpIf33Pd-mkMthRBE8WwLW-xCjGsPdxdrSMaG7hBu8O2EaGNi6s1wIr9bZdIcE2WsSUMss59D2uWOcPFw9Pbgc6xB5ASu_y8U6hSpRecx-w7eP7YrO_tiJnz56wpbaPI/s640/blogger-image--40932717.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxLrpepYong2EAYpIf33Pd-mkMthRBE8WwLW-xCjGsPdxdrSMaG7hBu8O2EaGNi6s1wIr9bZdIcE2WsSUMss59D2uWOcPFw9Pbgc6xB5ASu_y8U6hSpRecx-w7eP7YrO_tiJnz56wpbaPI/s640/blogger-image--40932717.jpg" /></a></div> <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7uDksTRDrATYsoSjkZx_5hVSAeO14hldVQhxzmai0VeYVp4GqN38EphwYg5FwnSedUzSDGu4w8QFoAo-X-3sqyeEBvuSrQe77DKgPvCAh3HBWrlIpDzhSUhWnRl91O782TukUXHaVGnYS/s640/blogger-image--857153277.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7uDksTRDrATYsoSjkZx_5hVSAeO14hldVQhxzmai0VeYVp4GqN38EphwYg5FwnSedUzSDGu4w8QFoAo-X-3sqyeEBvuSrQe77DKgPvCAh3HBWrlIpDzhSUhWnRl91O782TukUXHaVGnYS/s640/blogger-image--857153277.jpg" /></a></div> <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0CKS2WHAKcFK-Amy3idnJz46c5kU3MdrhWghv-aYzk3NDz6XaR6-E42ygRmtmzF_a7Hi4siptWLzLkyR68yHY1-RvBpQoTSmbDafiZNG3COP565_avrjsLuVznqi43HvKSMmlnQNFnNyz/s640/blogger-image-400710441.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0CKS2WHAKcFK-Amy3idnJz46c5kU3MdrhWghv-aYzk3NDz6XaR6-E42ygRmtmzF_a7Hi4siptWLzLkyR68yHY1-RvBpQoTSmbDafiZNG3COP565_avrjsLuVznqi43HvKSMmlnQNFnNyz/s640/blogger-image-400710441.jpg" /></a></div> <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiByf9-w9tCXvSi1_ppA3vnfyrppEXUhivEzDemgwjJwwkf5AaCxb9o50WDUnRQiWI22VGLBK6nvrqHMga5CRLO4QqMGbdLEh-laE1iPzGMvtlHpgSo3QBSjaNsQAPsIIe_xPzk4J1nsUqS/s640/blogger-image--808054777.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiByf9-w9tCXvSi1_ppA3vnfyrppEXUhivEzDemgwjJwwkf5AaCxb9o50WDUnRQiWI22VGLBK6nvrqHMga5CRLO4QqMGbdLEh-laE1iPzGMvtlHpgSo3QBSjaNsQAPsIIe_xPzk4J1nsUqS/s640/blogger-image--808054777.jpg" /></a></div>Courtney Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08517702204559601018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3631735175114403905.post-57671883734818705492013-06-28T01:19:00.001-07:002013-06-29T01:44:47.561-07:00Saturn ReturnA few months ago, I was sitting with one of my very favorite people - Kristen French - talking philosophy and life. As per usual life conversations, I was fretting over my wander lust vs. the need to be a "grown up" and do the things I'm supposed to - have a job, build a life, be stable, etc. Kristen is always very good for my soul, and she told me exactly what I needed to hear. She told me about my<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saturn_return"> 'Saturn Return.'</a> A Saturn planet is on a 29 year cycle of orbit. When a person is born, Saturn is in a specific place and position, and will return to that exact same position every 29 years. It is philosiphized that when Saturn returns to the exact position of your birth, you are crossing a major threshold in your life. Every Saturn Return is the opportunity for 'rebirth.' Kristen told me "If you have spent your first 28 years learning about yourself and the world, doing what you love, and growing, you'll be ready when you turn 29." Kristen told me that instead of 29 being a scary omen and reminder of me not settled, it is the opportunity of a new beginning. If I have spent my first 28 years learning about myself and the things that matter to me, 29 is a beautiful beginning that I will be ready for. <br />
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This conversation gave me instant peace about my need to explore myself and the world. On my birthday 2 days ago, I thought about this, and became excited about 28. I know this year will be full to the brim of me learning about myself and my place in the world, and I know when I turn 29, I'll be crossing that threshold ready for the year to come. <br />
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<a data-ved="0CAUQjRw" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=qmBDvgmle7GayM&tbnid=T8u6BsCaUG9kOM:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgaladarling.com%2Farticle%2Fhow-to-survive-your-saturn-return&ei=60bNUcuHGumKiAKX84GIBA&bvm=bv.48572450,d.cGE&psig=AFQjCNEKJG9ejWaOh9tdF-aEBXGJ0oww_w&ust=1372493926391012" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img height="393" id="irc_mi" src="http://galadarling.com/images/12/10/saturnreturn.jpg" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="535" /></a>Courtney Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08517702204559601018noreply@blogger.com1