tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48664660663118582672024-02-07T15:27:52.753-08:00Simply MeJodie C Hartunghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11288440505122981927noreply@blogger.comBlogger198125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4866466066311858267.post-77424315428777652442021-09-30T17:57:00.001-07:002021-09-30T17:57:17.937-07:00<p> The song of geese may not appeal to everyone's ear, whether due to the calling of the onset of a harsh and barrenly frigid winter on the horizon, or due to their intrusive honk.</p><p>I hear a chorus. A song. The song of a Faithful Season changing. The song of a entrance, of exit, of new and old mingling in the in between, waiting with reverence and revelry for what is yet to be seen.</p><p>I hear praise.</p><p>I hear glory.</p><p>I hear faithfulness.</p><p>I hear, I AM WITH YOU, STILL.</p><p>Wow, it's been a season, friends. It's been up and down and a lot of dark, blindfold walking, bumping into walls, tentative steps that tear at our toes, and harsh and weary words that tear apart instead of build up, as a good neighbor is called to do.</p><p>It's been a season. </p><p>And the honking of the goose song echoes that and ushers in a new one, that can bring hope, promise, reveal faithfulness and love.</p><p>We need only look. Use our opportunities. And allow kindness. A stranger's smile. An uncertainty to offer us the opportunity to embrace courage instead of fear, grace instead of anger, and love instead of hate.</p><p>Let's use the time we have to be better, create better, and pick up the weary when we ourselves feel lost.</p><p><br /></p><p>Praise the Father,</p><p>Praise the Son,</p><p>Praise the Spirit Three In One.</p><p><a href="https://youtu.be/Of5IcFWiEpg">https://youtu.be/Of5IcFWiEpg</a><br /></p><p><br /></p>Jodie C Hartunghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11288440505122981927noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4866466066311858267.post-9160922941446490382015-03-11T20:22:00.000-07:002015-03-11T20:22:18.188-07:00Tobias Jesso Jr. - How Could You Babe<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Well it's been a while. A good long while, in fact. I am undecided about this little space to be honest, but I heard this and it felt right to share.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> So here is a little number that frankly, just made me smile.</span><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> We all need a smile now and then and music has a way of creeping and seeping into the cracks that need filling. So here you are!</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> A new song to call your mid-week delight! Check this guy out, his album is released next week.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Cheers! </span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/uu1Ko02P7vk" width="480"></iframe>Jodie C Hartunghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11288440505122981927noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4866466066311858267.post-38806050542937548472014-10-14T06:19:00.002-07:002014-10-14T06:19:37.817-07:00<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>Thankfulness</b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> There is so much to be thankful for it almost seems impossible to know where to begin, but I will try.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1~ I am thankful for my family. Regardless of circumstance, distance or difference, I am so thankful to be a part of such a special group of people. You teach me, you encourage me, challenge me, listen to me, and so much more. I am thankful that on occasion I have the opportunity to do the same for you. </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">2~ I am thankful my children are healthy. It is something so simple and yet so big.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">3~ I am thankful for opportunities to love others who are put in my path.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">4~ I am thankful for the simple, yet dependable, in my life. The change of seasons, the rising and setting sun, even the migration of the geese. They are all faithful in their duty and are representatives of a Greater Hand at work.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">5~ I am thankful for food, (pie especially)! </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">6~ My husband is special. He sees me at my worst, he hears the ridiculous that spews from my mouth. He understands when I need a hand or an encouraging word often before I do. He lets me hug him, for a long time, when necessary. Even if his meeting has to wait. He is special, and I am a better me because of him.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">7~ I am thankful for how the last few years have grown and stretched me. I have gone to places I would never have dreamed and seen more than I would have imagined for myself. There has been struggle, as there is with all change, but it has been special and a path I would choose again and again. I also look forward to the changes that are ahead!</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">8~ I am thankful that our family has had the time to sit down and eat together recently. We have gathered together around our table more in the last month than we have in the past 2 years. It is special, and one of my favorite things!</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">9~ I am thankful for the women in my life. Woman can be tricky, so this is a big deal for me. Some of you have had a key role in my life; like the babysitter I had as a girl who I am able to hold as a dear friend today. Or the dear friend, whom I never see, who taught me what it means to sparkle, to work hard; she taught me what it means to be not only a woman, but a strong woman in all the roles my life requires. The ladies I have been blessed to laugh with in sport, the girls who send me songs to expand my musical palate. I am thankful for my niece who teaches me to hold tight to the childlike spirit in me, and yes, if that means dancing circles in a tutu, how could I not step up to the plate for that one! You are all so special!</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">10~ I am thankful that my Creator hasn't given up on me, because let's be honest, I am a disaster and a cracked pot at best. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> My life is full. I am one of the lucky ones, I know that well enough. Our family laid low this weekend, we had very little to do, and conveniently the sun was shining so there was lots of outdoor play. I have so much to be thankful for and I know how special that is.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Make your own list of all those special things. After a weekend of giving thanks, it shouldn't be too hard!</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>Jodie C Hartunghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11288440505122981927noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4866466066311858267.post-79312739435272340512014-09-29T12:14:00.002-07:002014-09-29T12:14:39.637-07:00James Bay 'Running' [Audio]<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b> Happy Monday, folks!</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Hmmm, so lovely. I'm loving this guy's whole EP, it's simply beautiful! Have a listen and be swept away; w</span><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">hat better start to the week could you ask for?</span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/yPJmBInd75k" width="480"></iframe>Jodie C Hartunghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11288440505122981927noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4866466066311858267.post-47297572122972385702014-09-22T05:30:00.002-07:002014-09-22T05:30:50.057-07:00 For Your Monday<div>
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> I stumbled across this beautiful piece of work recently. It grabbed tightly and wrapped its gentle threads around my heart. There is something about the tenderness underlying the strength in the words, or perhaps, it's the way my heart seems desperate to cling to the promise inside of them that has me returning my thoughts frequently, seeking comfort, encouragement, and the obvious; hope.</span></div>
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<b style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.0059986114502px;">"Hope" is the thing of feathers </b></div>
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"Hope" is the thing with feathers—</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.0059986114502px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.0059986114502px;">That perches in the soul—</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.0059986114502px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.0059986114502px;">And sings the tune without the words—</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.0059986114502px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.0059986114502px;">And never stops—at all—</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.0059986114502px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.0059986114502px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.0059986114502px;">And sweetest—in the Gale—is heard—</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.0059986114502px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.0059986114502px;">And sore must be the storm—</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.0059986114502px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.0059986114502px;">That could abash the little Bird</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.0059986114502px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.0059986114502px;">That kept so many warm—</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.0059986114502px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.0059986114502px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.0059986114502px;">I've heard it in the chillest land—</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.0059986114502px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.0059986114502px;">And on the strangest Sea—</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.0059986114502px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.0059986114502px;">Yet, never, in Extremity,</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.0059986114502px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.0059986114502px;">It asked a crumb—of Me.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.0059986114502px;"><b>- Emily Dickinson</b> </span> </span></div>
Jodie C Hartunghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11288440505122981927noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4866466066311858267.post-32495660655996197802014-09-12T05:44:00.001-07:002014-09-12T05:44:10.092-07:00<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Top Ten</span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1~ The final weeks of rustling leaves as they turn all shades of cozy.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">2~ The sound of laughter ringing through my house. Oh what pure, sweet, delight from</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> whichever mouth they spill!</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">3~ Girl time, because my goodness in my life filled with boys, I need it!</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">4~ The return of blessed routine.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">5~ The meager but delicious harvest from my garden.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">6~ Coffee with a friend.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">7~ The hope that soon I will be all caught up and can sit down with my computer and get</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> my thoughts down on paper.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">8~ The smell of cookies in my kitchen, happily whipped up by none other than my giant </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> child!</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">9~ The <i>Pretty Room </i>and how it wraps me in girly, sunshine filled, indulgence!</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">10~ The flag in my backyard. My father-in-law hung it for me a few weeks ago, and still, </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> each</span><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> time I spot it my heart is warmed and I know whether to add another layer by how </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> it flaps in the wind.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> So much to be thankful for. It's a good reminder to count your blessings and be thankful, and what a day to do it than today. Don't delay!</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span>Jodie C Hartunghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11288440505122981927noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4866466066311858267.post-77281053828787500992014-09-08T05:39:00.001-07:002014-09-08T05:39:18.214-07:00Tim McGraw - Meanwhile Back At Mama’s ft. Faith Hill<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Morning!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I feel like we did a whole lot of driving this summer and this was one of those songs that we always tuned in to. My sweetheart was an immediate fan and brought it to my attention, though if I'm honest, I was a little hesitant because it is usually the other way around for us. </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I loved it immediately; the inviting sound, the story in the lyrics, the truth in the words. It's one of those songs that catches your heart, and there is something about it that had the ability to slow me enough to enjoy the moment.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Have a listen and enjoy this sunny Monday morning ... I know I will! </span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/or-Lam5tPHc" width="480"></iframe>Jodie C Hartunghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11288440505122981927noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4866466066311858267.post-53012543063253018752014-09-04T05:35:00.000-07:002014-09-04T05:35:38.846-07:00<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>Mid-Week Confessions</b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> The air turned sometime last week; the permeating fragrance of fall and the less oppressive heat has descended leaving the glorious days of summer a vivid yet fading memory. The evenings are cool, a sweater is required, the glowing flicker of a fire's flame warms the crisp air, and socks are on the required list.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I love the anticipation of a new season, autumn especially; it holds unknown in its unfurled palm and thrusts it upon us whether we are prepared or not. It is a rare time when change is embraced and wrapped up in soft scarves, new shoes and the reintroduction of many favourites.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It also reminds us that seasons are short, and summer is often the shortest season experienced in my corner of the world, it reminds me to be thankful for what I've been given, what I have to anticipate and all that I am surrounded by.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Autumn in many ways causes us to slow down. There is the start up of school and all the programs that revolve around that calendar year that add to the busy-buzz, but there is also a return to the schedule, which eases and turns my mind to a frenzied state in equal measure. It is also a time when new people become fast friends. This is often challenging for me as I would much prefer to hide in my little nook at home, curled up with a book and a cup of steaming tea, lost in my imagination, but I am also encouraged by moments of giving. I often forget that when I haul myself out of my cocooning world I learn; and learning is one of my favourite things. </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> People flow in and out of your life, often regrettably, as easily as passing through a revolving door. Other times you are lucky enough to grow something permanent. It is in those moments of quick passing that I love to open my mind and my heart to absorb all that I can, and funny enough, when I open my head enough to soak it all up, I come out all the better for it in the end.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> There is so much to learn by the simple offering of conversation and it is in those unguarded moments that so much becomes clear to me. Strangers have a gift of being painfully honest more often than many of your closest friend and seem to draw the same from you. There is no concern for raising offence and there is seemingly no responsibility for the questions, emotions, and uncertainties that are raised and stirred into a flurry.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I've been accused, or if you'd prefer to think of it as crowned, as being the queen of superficial relationships. At first I took great and painful offence at this accusation, but now I think this is funny, because those conversations may be brief and I may never have occasion to speak with said person again, but I feel our conversation was more honest, more deeply revealing and of more consequence than many of my more frequent interactions, plus I engaged fully, lending a piece of myself, and I truly cared (which, to my mind, automatically erases the superficial title to my crown).</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Have I lost you? Perhaps I have, and that's okay, this is all just something that often pops into my overactive, introverted mind. I know why I feel this way as I've had oodles and hoards of time to contemplate this title I've been given. I guess I'm writing this to remind myself of its importance and to encourage myself, and any of you out there who feel the same, to get out of that chair in the safe corner that houses my books and my cup of tea and push myself to be vulnerable, to be real and to share what I have to offer.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> A new season is upon us, and perhaps its time to get out there and force its newness on ourselves! Perhaps it's just time to find a new pair of socks and keep trodding along. Wherever you are, whatever state of circumstance, and whatever place you find yourself, I wish you a beautiful season of change.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span>Jodie C Hartunghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11288440505122981927noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4866466066311858267.post-84401782712375416272014-07-28T17:23:00.003-07:002014-07-28T17:23:45.255-07:00Sam Smith "How Will I Know" Whitney Houston Cover // Hits 1 // SiriusXM<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> It's been a while folks; life works that way sometimes! But lucky me and you, my team has just had a rain delay and I have a minute to focus on one of my other loves!</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> It's Monday, and as usual, I only have the time to listen to my favorite Sunday night radio show a day late! So, it was a good one this week, it rarely is anything but, but my attention was caught immediately which, recently anyway, seems to be an illusive situation.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Here is a snippit of what I heard. I kid you not, I stopped, dropped my current task and just listened, eyes closed, 100% allowing myself to be lost in the moment and then scrambled to listen again. And, oh, what a moment. This man is on fire at the moment, and likely has forgotten any musical misstep in his past!</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I've missed this space, I truly have, but that is a story for another time and with another purpose. </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Have a listen and enjoy this Sunday night sound on a Monday evening!</span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/kwHACITShSI" width="480"></iframe>Jodie C Hartunghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11288440505122981927noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4866466066311858267.post-65522979802130326992014-07-04T15:33:00.000-07:002014-07-04T15:33:59.528-07:00<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> There are very few things more special than the perfect Summer's evening. What are the ingredients? It's cool enough to need a sweat shirt yet warm enough to never feel a chill ... it's perfection!</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Tonight just happens to be that in my neighbourhood. The air is fresh. The sky is randomly streaked by a wisp of clouds that runs parallel to the horizon, and the sunset.... The sunset is beyond mesmerizing and paints the whole sky.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> The pinks and purples and golds bleed together into a sight that cannot be described with words, nor reflected back in a picture, regardless of the angle you work to capture. It is one of those moments that steals your breath and haunts your heart, and thankfully, this moment repeats itself frequently enough to grasp a hold of the thankfulness, yet not enough to grow redundant; it's a repetitive miracle, if you take a moment to savour it.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Summer is fleeting where I come from. It is short to say the least, yet it is a craving that rarely subsides and, to be frank, coveted through the long, cold, almost desolate winter months.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> There is a fragrance in this stage of summer that hangs in the air. It's permeated with the stench of still water, fresh cut grass, hot pavement, and a cooling breeze that stirs the air enough to combine those into a scent that is heady, addictive, and soothing.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> My windows are open and as I seek sleep I can hear the cadence of insects staking their claim on the hour of night. The frogs are delighted at this hour and sing happily and bountifully, eager to fill their bellies and revel in the freedom of darkness.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I love summer, and after a long, and entirely too restrictive winter, I don't care if the days are too hot to handle and the nights too loud and restless to find rest. I am soaking it in. Basking in the heat of the afternoon and lingering in the fading light of evening.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Wherever you are, stop, take a look around you and enjoy. Smell the roses, literally.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Enjoy the sunshine-rain that shares its rainbow mist and lets you in on its promise. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Cheers to the weekend, folks, may it be a good one!</span>Jodie C Hartunghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11288440505122981927noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4866466066311858267.post-12417872638739049772014-06-26T07:01:00.002-07:002014-06-26T07:01:45.037-07:00Words<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I am more than blood and bone</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">deeper than light and dark</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">wider than the unfathomable depths</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I am messy shades of grey</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">flesh and heart that bruises;</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">emotions that spill from my cup</span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I am more,</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">so much more </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">than what you see.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This gurgled up inside of me this morning, and luckily I was near the keys to keep record of what pushed its way to the surface.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Words are so precious.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>Jodie C Hartunghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11288440505122981927noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4866466066311858267.post-11159555705450076502014-06-17T06:05:00.001-07:002014-06-17T06:05:32.304-07:00RHODES - Your Soul (Official Video)<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I need a slow immersion back into reality this week and, I think and hope and am nearly pleading for this to be the perfect way to coax me from beneath the warmth of my duvet and out into the sunshiny outdoors.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Taking summer vacation two weeks before the end of the school year was probably not the smartest idea on the productivity scale, but all the same, it was a wonderful time away from the day-to-day. The problem is resetting the internal clock to return my energies to the race (insert substantially large gulp of coconut milk infused coffee).</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> There is this radio show I like to listen to, usually on Monday, though it is broadcast on Sunday, that introduced me to this soothing sound. The whole show in effect is intended to slow you down after a crazy weekend and send you into a relaxed state for a new week.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Anyway, regardless of your mood, your energy level, or your state of mind at the moment, this one is beautiful! In addition to all that audio goodness, the visual unto itself may induce a slower rhythm and soothing loveliness to your day; it really is simply beautiful.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I wish you true enjoyment and a slow slide into reflection as your ears tune in to this beautiful melancholy composition.</span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/5xglMgU6Soo" width="480"></iframe>Jodie C Hartunghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11288440505122981927noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4866466066311858267.post-25800264013332248852014-06-13T07:10:00.001-07:002014-06-13T07:10:27.401-07:00<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">T</span><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">OP TEN a little piece of thankful</span></b></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1~ I love my country. It's beautiful, and I'm not just saying that lightly. I put many miles on </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> my tires this week, passing through several provinces and they each had unique beauty </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> that</span><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> was</span><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> breathtaking. </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">2~ Adventures are so, so fun! It doesn't matter much what the adventure is really, big or </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> small, it's what </span><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">you make of the moment that matters. </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">3~ We tried out a new restaurant the other night. Reviews were positive, so why not, we </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> thought! There were two people in the restaurant when we arrived; one was our server, the</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> other was doing some sort of setup maintenance. We decided to give it a go anyway.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> It was nothing special, except for the salsa. The best bit was that my sweetheart and I sat </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> side by side, yep! like that odd couple that cuddles! We sat together facing the game, we </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> chatted </span><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">75% more because we were beside each other instead of across from each other, </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> and it was the best quality time we've had in far too long.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">4~ I love my family. Really, truly love them.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">5~ I am thankful that my girlfriends receive me regardless of my mood, my state of mind, or </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> my ultimately crazy requests. In truth, you indulge me and my imaginings and stalker-like </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> request for feedback with true style!</span><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> You deserve credit for anything I create!</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">6~ Food....I think I am actually looking forward to spending time in my kitchen again. It's </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> funny what taking a break and having someone else take care of you now and again can do </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> to recharge you. </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">7~ NAPS! enough said!</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">8~ My sweetheart indulged me with a walk through of my favorite shop. Unfortunately I</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> didn't </span><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">leave with a pretty bag in hand, but the tactile experience of touching all the lovely </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> fabrics, trinkets, and pottery was enough to have fairies dancing before my eyes as I </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> drifted </span><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">to </span><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">sleep later that night. Inspiration comes in many forms and is invaluable.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">9~ Spending some time in the sunshine, watching the rain, and listening to the world revolve </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> around me. The peace, calm, chaos, and beauty of creation all around is astounding.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">10~ I am the horse whisper. (No story necessary, because it is just too weird.)</span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> It's been a while since I made a list, but I thought it was time, especially since life has been so chaotic and I have slacked so heavily in the area of embracing the simple and slowing down enough to truly enjoy it. This is my friendly reminder to slow down and breathe every now and then.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Make a list and see how quickly the good stuff from your day, week, or month adds up! Be thankful!</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Happy Friday, folks!</span>Jodie C Hartunghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11288440505122981927noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4866466066311858267.post-25326730921909780522014-06-05T05:56:00.000-07:002014-06-05T05:56:37.528-07:00Klingande - Jubel (Official Video HD)<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Need a pick me up this morning? You've found it here! Soothing yet energy inspiring; a combo that draws you in. Plus saxophone melodies....what's not to love?</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> The video will also give you a road trip and journey through the wilderness that will make you feel just a little less chained to your daily routine and more or less lighter on your feet, or if I can really reach, free!</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Have a listen and have the best day you've had all week!</span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/b6vSf0cA9qY" width="480"></iframe>Jodie C Hartunghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11288440505122981927noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4866466066311858267.post-28886397227467812252014-05-30T06:11:00.001-07:002014-05-30T06:11:11.377-07:00I CHOOSE YOU<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi58nyqI0nN5ZqOS0ktmbVMW0lFoetuxe2d8nsIeyiteEkpFjGnhUK-uGOzl7xYcsYYvmtYQDSQHWJxEpk_UoQaai5q8PFJBXQmV1VzunZf1dBjI1PCRKDKGqyk9Rqd9eukVP7dSx8T09As/s1600/unnamed+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi58nyqI0nN5ZqOS0ktmbVMW0lFoetuxe2d8nsIeyiteEkpFjGnhUK-uGOzl7xYcsYYvmtYQDSQHWJxEpk_UoQaai5q8PFJBXQmV1VzunZf1dBjI1PCRKDKGqyk9Rqd9eukVP7dSx8T09As/s1600/unnamed+%25281%2529.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Life is made of choices, from the mundane of daily living to those big scary commitments that follow you each shuffle and step through your life.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Marriage is one of those big scary commitments that is hard to shake.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Days turn into weeks, weeks into months, months into years. And on it goes. How many choices are made when that fluffy, floaty, tingly feeling from those first days pass? </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Many.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Many.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Many.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Choices!</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> The fluffy doesn't last forever, believe me. Throw in work, bills, repairs, sickness, fights; you get the idea, it's not all a giant bed of roses.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> But the thing is, even in the muck, it's great! </span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3SumuFQA5b2eBSHhf9YumkrVWg5ajsyf2pEc5IL4rk3IY47EOdZNX73zeA3nK3Q3yLzwtG1h9r-ELfOVW5sf8-9jWpfXQSALVWnlHyCT6Z1mJ2WGrUMdFLOCyeHYVWkudspZX1CqPVAeb/s1600/unnamed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3SumuFQA5b2eBSHhf9YumkrVWg5ajsyf2pEc5IL4rk3IY47EOdZNX73zeA3nK3Q3yLzwtG1h9r-ELfOVW5sf8-9jWpfXQSALVWnlHyCT6Z1mJ2WGrUMdFLOCyeHYVWkudspZX1CqPVAeb/s1600/unnamed.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> It's an adventure, each day! Seriously!</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Falling in love is what brings you together, but choosing to love is what keeps it going! And here's a juicy morsel for you this Friday; choosing to love leads right back to falling in love, it's just shaped a little differently!</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> That's my news flash for this fantastic day! </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Love is a CHOICE!</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I love my choices. I love the years I can look back on and know I fought, know I didn't always make the best choices, but in those tentative moments I fought, I grew, and now, if I trust what I hold tenderly, and with abundant care in my hands, my life, my love, my choice, is golden!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Happy Anniversary to my best choice, the greatest adventure. You are the sunshine, the fireworks that shine bright in the night sky, the pen to my paper, the laughter in a dark tunnel, my tag team on this crazy choose-your-own-adventure we call our life!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b> I CHOOSE YOU</b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span>Jodie C Hartunghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11288440505122981927noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4866466066311858267.post-77543524396149804202014-05-19T12:20:00.003-07:002014-05-19T12:20:55.240-07:00T.S. Elliot and a Rainy Day<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>T.S. Elliot and a Rainy Day</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I watched a movie today. It was a perfectly dreary day, the sort that invoked a desire for comfort and warmth. The kind that inspires snuggling, the baking of cake, cookies, or other goodies that permeate the air with all things, you guessed it, comforting!</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I'd seen this particular movie before and remember not liking it all that much but I needed a distraction, and because the boys in my life have been obsessed with all things superhero recently, and watched more than their fill of explosions and fighting, I needed something that was far removed from that genre.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> As I said, the first time I saw the movie I wasn't such a fan. Call it my stubborn refusal to embrace the romantic side of myself, if you will, or call it my refusal to jump on the train of commercialism. Whatever the reason, though I believe it was the latter, my opinion changed today.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> SIDE NOTE: When people ask the question, as they inevitably will, <i>what's new? </i>I feel several things happen inside of me at once. </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> #1, I cringe, mostly becaus</span><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">e it is cliche and that superficial conversation always creeps under my flesh where it causes an adverse reaction that makes me want to scream, stomp and run super fast in the opposite direction. (Obviously, I have serious issues)</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> #2, it makes me want to laugh at the irony, and dive deep into the philosophical. Because really truly, how can you ever know if something is new until you've had time to steep yourself in it and look back, pondering its significance and know that every day is in fact new, and it is only in our expectations that we are disappointed. (See! Obvious issues here. Also, as you can see, I am a buzz kill at a party!)</span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Anyway, I liked the movie, it surprised me in moments how much. It made me smile. I shed a tear....or several if I'm honest. It made me ponder, and though I am not one to swoon for this particular male lead, I could see the appeal, and he made me believe in the story, which obviously was progress from my first viewing.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> <i>Things are new</i> every day. That is a beautiful fact which I choose to throw myself into time and time again, with each day and its new beginning. I also believe that I am not the same with each passing day, and why would I be? Each moment I breathe is a moment of learning, growth and understanding that I hope I don't squander.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I can pick up my past work, read it through and still love it, though I have changed since the moment that work was conceived. I can appreciate the work and know it wouldn't be the same if I were to try to recreate it today. That is life. We change. We grow. We learn. We live. Each moment we life shapes the way we see what is in front of us in the next. Everyday, though it may seem the same and as though nothing new ever happens, is different, new, and to be explored.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">One of my favorite quotes is this:</span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><b>We shall not cease from exploration, and the end of all our exploring will be to arrive where we started and know the place for the first time. </b></i></span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><b>~T.S. Elliot~</b></i></span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><b><br /></b></i></span>
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Those words fill my heart and challenge me.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Every.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Single. </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Time.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>Jodie C Hartunghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11288440505122981927noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4866466066311858267.post-24246274427577666002014-05-02T07:49:00.001-07:002014-05-02T07:49:30.164-07:00<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>Top 10</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1~ A massive milestone for our family. A crazy amount of hours went into prepping for it. We</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> are exhausted, exhilarated, empowered and positive about the future!</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">2~ Have I mentioned how I adore the guy in my life? He leaves me speechless, spellbound and</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> utterly blown away by the love we continue to build.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">3~ My crazytown princes skipped school to participate in our big day! They were pumped but</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> very quickly realized that a work day is much more difficult and draining than what they </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> are used to at school! They worked hard and I am so proud that they are becoming such </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> responsible young men who are not afraid of hard work and a little mud on their shoes!</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">4~ There are too many of you to name so I will try to blanket cover this one. A ridiculously</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> massive thank you to the ladies in my life! Whether it is an encouraging text or email, a </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> smile or pat </span><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">on the back, an offer of your time - even if I was never around, or if we were </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> lucky, a visit </span><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">at </span><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">the coffee shop. You have helped to carry me this </span><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">year. Also to those of </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> you who I haven't seen in way too long, I will do my best to get back on track! Like I said, </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> words </span><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">don't cover </span><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">the </span><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">fullness in my heart. </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">5~ I am so thankful for a comfortable bed, warm blankets and a quiet neighborhood that </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> provides therapeutic shelter!</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">6~ To my family, near and far. You are the BEST! </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">7~ To the warriors in my life who pray me through each day, there are no words.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">8~ The sun came out and shone its blessing in our moment of need. SO AWESOME!</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">9~ For this space. I am so thankful it is here, because it's an outlet that lets me be me. Outside</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> of the chaos that is my life, I find comfort here, in these words and in the vague idea of</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> anonymity I find in this page. In a way it is large piece of my sanity and one of my truest</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> forms of expression.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">10~ My running shoes. They carry me and help me to dump the crazy from my head. </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> They provide so much more than a physical workout, in fact, I'd only give the physical </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> 40% of the credit and purpose. I am a better me when my shoes carry me home!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> It has been one incredible week, and indeed, I am a very blessed lady!</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Happy Weekend, folks! Make a list and say thanks....</span>Jodie C Hartunghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11288440505122981927noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4866466066311858267.post-60351149482520043622014-04-30T05:34:00.000-07:002014-04-30T05:34:24.297-07:00Frank Turner - The Way I Tend To Be (Live)<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>Mid-Week Confessions</b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> We all have moments where we need someone to save us. Fess up, people, we all need a hand every now and then, even you superhero type.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I tend to sentimentalize, maybe even sensationalize, many of these moments and especially those few special people who offered their hand, whether they knew it at the time or not. I am truly thankful, even if my memory truly is crap.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I remember weirdly vague moments. They are the moments that I carry with me. Those moments I know for certain have shaped who I am today. Moments I wish I could rewind and express to the other person how thankful I am and how they were game changers for me.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> A specific smile.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> A special delivery in the post.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> A harsh and defining word of correction offered in love.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> A teacher who cared enough to ask.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> A friend who never asks, but always receives you in whatever state you turn up.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> A friend safe enough and patient enough to listen as silent tears fall.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> An altogether unexpected phone call that makes everything better.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> An understanding shoulder that needs no words.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I feel fortunate enough to have encountered repeatedly throughout my life those special people who've acted as angels in specific situations, whether those people were just passing through or permanent fixtures.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Like I said I tend to sensationalize and over romanticize many of those game changer moments, especially with the gift of hindsight in play. </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I guess my point is that we all need help now and then. </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I confess I suck at asking. I suck at needing help, and I will likely turn down help or try to bite your head off if you push me or go ahead and do it without my knowledge...just ask my mom. (Sorry about that one mom....again.)</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Anyway, we all need someone to save us. We were not created do it on our own. That's what I've come to learn, and though I know this, it doesn't make it easy going forward. It's that constant battle between the head and the heart, between your independent and rebellious will versus sound reason.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Asking for help takes <b>humility</b>.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> It takes admitting you're not right, or have it all together, or are perhaps not fully equipped or prepared to handle what lies ahead, or at least that is what I am somehow able to convince myself....are you any different?</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Accepting the helps takes <b>vulnerability</b>, and man oh man, that's a tall order all too often.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> The thing is we need to be reminded of and to embrace these big concepts and stop thinking about them as weakness or lacking, because, in fact, they are beautiful, growth inducing and imperative character builders.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I don't know about you but I want my character built, sculpted and redefined.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> If you get that lucky chance to thank one of those special "helpers" in your life, take it, say thank you. It could be a game changer for them!</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Yikes. Those are all seriously big things. I guess you could say that's the way I tend to be! (Sorry, it was right there, and I am definitely dorky that way!) I couldn't decide between these two so I didn't. Good stuff!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Cheers!</span><br />
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<br />Jodie C Hartunghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11288440505122981927noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4866466066311858267.post-42682525725918508592014-04-15T05:39:00.002-07:002014-04-15T05:39:37.857-07:00Paolo Nutini - Better Man [Acoustic]<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Here is my musical obsession for the week. The whole CD is available today and I can't wait to watch my play counts soar, because if what I've already heard through sneaky peeks on the radio is any indication, this will be a favorite for a long time to come!!</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Enjoy!</span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/Nsx-JVymaGk" width="480"></iframe>Jodie C Hartunghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11288440505122981927noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4866466066311858267.post-68042388494596719162014-04-01T05:46:00.002-07:002014-04-01T05:46:37.356-07:00Toby Mac - Get Back Up (Lyrics)<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>When you face disappointment how you react matters?</b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i> For the record, I wrote this months ago, but courage failed me, and airing this grand disappointment was too much to share</i><b>. </b></span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b> </b>I received a piece of disappointing new yesterday. I'd been waiting to hear from a publisher for a year and a half and the news finally came via email late afternoon. I had already had a bit of a bummer of a day and I was feeling emotionally raw and a little bit wrung out. </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I wasn't expecting it, that's for sure, and to be honest, most days I didn't even think about my work and its success or failure being held in the palm of another's hands. Yesterday for certain it was the furthest thing from my mind. But the ax fell nonetheless.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I will easily admit that it wasn't my best work, it was only my second attempt at telling a story after all, but there was something in this one that made it extra special, magical if you will, that had me believing in it. I guess it would be best put that this story holds my heart, or a huge piece of it anyway.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Here you go guys, the moment you've all been waiting for....I am going to spill my guts!</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I wanted this, probably more than I have ever wanted anything in my life, and it's sort of bizarre because I could do absolutely nothing to help my cause; I could only wait. I couldn't perform at peak levels at a second tryout, shake hands or meet the decision makers face to face. </span><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I couldn't hand over a plan to sell the crap out of this book, </span><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I couldn't convince them of the validity and saleability of my imagination's story. I could only wait, and so that's what I did. I waited.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I saw the email and I somehow knew. You couldn't receive such wonderful news with no bells and whistles or fanfare to accompany it. It's funny, I was prepared for the rejection, it would be foolish not to be, but even so, I didn't see it coming, and certainly not on this day.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> So YES! I am incredibly disappointed. I am feeling a bit wounded, raw and scraped up. I am wondering where to look, where to turn and ultimately what my next step will be.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Here's What I Know</b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Yes, <b>disappointment sucks</b>. </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I will not let it define me.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> <b> Rejection does not mean failure.</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> There is no shame in disappointment on this occasion.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I wrote a book! I wrote a book that the publishers were interested in and held on to for a long time, but ultimately couldn't choose for whatever reason.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I wrote a book! That's what matters. I did one of those things I'd always wanted to do, something I LOVE, and that is a grand success in itself, (even if only those of you who ask are the lucky ones to hold it in your hands). </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I also know I won't quit; this is just one obstacle on the journey.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I will keep writing because it is something I love, something that is inside of me and needs to be let out. I write for me and any other affirmation I receive would simply be icing on the cake!</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I will not give up.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">My princes love this song, they love all that Toby Mac does actually. My giant child put this song on first thing this morning; he's our morning DJ. He knew nothing about my rejection, I didn't have a chance yesterday to talk with them about it, and I honestly needed to steep myself in my feelings before I did, to understand what I felt, why and what it all means to me. But they have been on this journey with me so I will speak to them about it soon; there is a lesson in everything.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Anyway, have a listen and whether you like the song or not, you tell me if there is a lesson to be learned in the lyrics. I would go so far as to say that, for me, this morning anyway, these words are Heaven sent.</span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/MX5OqyBYKh4" width="480"></iframe>Jodie C Hartunghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11288440505122981927noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4866466066311858267.post-8123794978727033122014-03-28T08:52:00.000-07:002014-03-28T08:52:43.396-07:00Anniversary...<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I attended a 50th Anniversary for this thing the other night. At first it was one of those things I said yes to, which I really had no intention of enjoying, though I did believe that it was sort of cool being honored at it and all that heritage sort of stuff.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Then as the date drew closer, and more specifically, at the moment I was getting ready for the event, it struck me; it really is an important evening. Not just because I knew I would get cake, which is important and a treat in itself, but because the the purpose behind the evening mattered.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> My ancestors went through a lot of stuff, and I mean a BIG, great, astoundingly hard <b>a lot of stuff</b>, for the life I lead. It is truly a big deal to honor those who came before you. And though it is not a crime, nor a disrespect to blaze your own trail;</span><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> remembering and honoring those who came before you, those you loved and who are a deep seeded part of you, is a beautiful moment to pause.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> I worry about my generation, and most definitely have concern for those that follow because there is a self-made declaration, a self-obsessed, materialistic lack of respect and reflection for the </span><i style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">things</i><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> that truly matter; which by the way, don't happen to be tangible things at all.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I learned that hardship was common, that there is always beauty in the ashes, and that, surprise surprise, hard work is the backbone of building something that lasts. That there is always hope, a will to survive, and a sentimental place for where you come from.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> History teaches us that we are survivors, those who persevere, and an ingenious creation that can carry in our hearts and breed that which matters most; love.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I was proud to stand next to my grandmother, because I came from her. She is a part of me as much as I am a part of her, and I humbly admit I have much to learn from her. And if that is true, what does it say of those who came before her who I never had a chance to learn from? </span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>HERE'S WHAT I KNOW</b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Where we come from isn't old fashioned, out of date, or so far in the past that it is no longer relevant. No, I argue that it is vital to who we are and where we are going, for without it we wouldn't be, and I believe we owe a respect to where we've come from whether we agree with it or not. </span>Jodie C Hartunghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11288440505122981927noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4866466066311858267.post-21720267380692214072014-03-14T06:34:00.001-07:002014-03-14T06:34:25.871-07:00<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Life has been crazy, but it always is, isn't it? Anyway, I've been thinking a lot lately that it is high time I actually wrote something instead of redirecting y'all to whatever has captured my attention, and to be fair, my attention has been all over the place and seriously unfocused recently. Too many balls in the air and all that ... blah blah blah.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> That said, will there be a redirect this week? Likely. Will I recycle a previous post? I haven't so far, and in nearly two years of posting one to three times a week.... well, that is something; and though I would never dare to call myself short winded, even I often run out of things to say - shocking. I know!</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> So that leaves me here. In a place, where I have no idea WHAT TO SAY.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Telling you about how I have been juggling my life over the past year has been done. You've heard that I am tired. That I am distracted. That I am without inspiration, creativity, and what was it last week ... too distracted by procrastination to focus on what I love ... which is words.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Is it possible to lose your muse? Well mine has gone into hiding. Or has gone on a long run of dealing with me via the silent treatment.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> That's right.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Another excuse!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I don't think I've ever been that person to talk just for the sake of needing something to say. I also don't believe that silence is necessarily a bad thing. In fact, I really love a good long silent pause. So perhaps this is my way of saying I need to be silent for a while.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> There are so many things I still want to share, but none of it seems important at the moment. Perhaps it's because I'm caught up in finishing a different project and that has seriously sapped and drained me of all other word purposes. Perhaps I just need a break. A recharge. A moment to turn my back and regroup.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I need to take a break from feeling I have to put something in this space and remember that I started it for me, because I needed to get the words out, not because it was Monday and I had to dig deep and fill a page. I need to clean my glasses and start looking at things in a different light, with fresh eyes and a thirsty spirit that sees the wonder in every small corner. Once I get there, I will very likely have something to say again.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> There is nothing wrong with any of those reasons.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> So, here I am, saying I'll see you later. </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Hang in there.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I'll likely share with ya'll soon enough, though what that may look like is a mystery!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Happy Friday, folks!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>Jodie C Hartunghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11288440505122981927noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4866466066311858267.post-14966462765159977852014-03-11T05:32:00.001-07:002014-03-11T05:32:43.920-07:00Echosmith - Tell Her You Love Her [Live]<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Morning!</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Okay, so I've told you the visual usually messes with my love for a song. Here is a perfect example of this.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Every time I hear this song, I think, WOW, I really like this, and then I remember how watching it messed with that love. So here is what I suggest. Don't watch, (or if you're into watching, go right ahead)!</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Turn it up crazy loud, and with the added bonus of the arrival of Spring in my neighborhood, it sounds even better! Check it out. I hope you like it!</span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/q-iPTDYPx2k" width="480"></iframe>Jodie C Hartunghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11288440505122981927noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4866466066311858267.post-37838738180048866762014-03-03T05:35:00.000-08:002014-03-03T05:35:34.024-08:00Paulo Nutini - Last Request<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> I can't get this one out of my head, it's been soaking, let's go further - steeping me - in it's loveliness for a while now . Everything about it wiggles around me and settles soothingly, comfortably - perfectly, until I can only smile.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Let it settle around you; I hope it makes you smile, too!</span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/ffJ8xcfqOX0" width="480"></iframe>Jodie C Hartunghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11288440505122981927noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4866466066311858267.post-25534855232063974932014-02-27T05:37:00.000-08:002014-02-27T05:37:55.015-08:00<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Shift the Blame/Random Bits of Ridiculousness</b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> So a few weeks ago my favorite "note-taking" pen died, and it occurred to me this morning, over smashed jalapeno and avocado smothered on toast with a runny egg, that the loss of said pen has been the downfall of my creativity (this is the blame shifting bit!)</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Remembering that loss I proceeded to dig through my desk drawer to find my "book-underlining" pencil, (because who doesn't specifically designate a pencil for such activity), when can you believe, I couldn't find that task oriented tool.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> A brief wave of panic lashed my body and I had the terrifying thought that if all of these writing tools had fallen on hard times, perhaps my "editing" pencil had suffered the same perilous fate.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I know what you're thinking.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> No, really, I do. Believe me.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> So. Filled with concern, I shuffled the pens/pencils which I am indifferent to in the pretty jar on my desk and saw that, <b>phew</b>, my "editing" pencil was precisely where it belonged. </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> There is nothing special about my "editing" pencil, just as there was nothing special about my "note-taking" pen or my "book-underlining" pencil (which I believe I tossed into my purse upon realizing my pen was about to mark its final page), other than that one important ingredient - LOVE.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I am attached, and because I have been through likely several thousand emotional</span><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> pages with this particular Toy Story character printed pencil, I have grown sentimental about it (though it resides currently, and I believe permanently, with many other random writing tools).</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Sidebar: my children know not to touch or even think about touching the tools that I love. When they are in search of a pencil or pen, I steer them to a box of supplies that is all their own. My <i>precious </i>is OFF LIMITS!<i> </i> </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Okay, now I really know what you are thinking, and I am totally cool with that label. Do you think I could write these ludicrous words and not think I am just a wee bit crazy myself? Well, rest assured, I know I am 100% bonkers..... but you know the saying, do you not? If not, I advise you go find that out for yourself!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Oi. Back to what I was trying to bring to light.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> I lost my creativity. Well, not really, I just filled my time with distractions to avoid trying to sort it out. </span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Classic procrastinator move. Classic lazy writer problems.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> It was blaming my pen/pencil situation and the ridiculousness of it all that I hope will be my final straw and the turning point to shutting down the distractions and actually focusing on finishing my project.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Sidebar: there is no way I am going to give up my "editing" pencil and as soon as I motivate myself I will head over to the office supply store to replace my ill fated "note-taking" pen so that I can put my "underlining" pencil back where it belongs!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> It's a wonderful day out there! Get out and enjoy it! Stop procrastinating and start that thing that's been on your mind. Sit yourself down and finish the never-ending project! Paint the fence, wax the car, clean out that hidden room in the basement.</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Whatever it is you've been avoiding. Do it. No more excuses!</span><br />
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Jodie C Hartunghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11288440505122981927noreply@blogger.com0