by Amy | Feb 12, 2015 | Blog, The Art of Living
I got this beautiful new stove. They brought it to me today. I snapped this photo so soon after they dropped it off that the glass on the door is still foggy from coming in from the cold. What’s the occasion? Why the fancy new appliance? Well….
Let’s go back to January 1st. Derek and I are preparing our final meal at home before leaving on our giant road trip. It was going to be fabulous: Biscuits and gravy. I had the gravy going on the stove and the biscuits were mixed, rolled out and waiting to be baked. The oven gave out a beep-beep-beep, signaling it had preheated. I opened the door to put the biscuits in to bake.
The oven door was only open for a half-second before I let out a squeaky shriek and let the door slam close again with a stress filled.
Inside the oven sparks were flying. Like a tiny welder had set up camp on the floor of the oven and was creating a masterpiece. Sparks like the kind that come off sparklers in the summer. At the base of the sparks, a tiny, orange-white flame. The oven was on fire.
I tried to explain what had happened when Derek looked at me, confused as to why I’d made that weird sound and why the pan of biscuits was sitting on top of the stove instead of in the oven…but all that came out was incoherent shock-talk. You know, “It’s…fire.” “I don’t know wha–” “It–just–I–there a fire in there.” Enough of the babbling wife, he opened the door again and we both took another look. The second look didn’t last much longer than the first. It was smoky and the light was so bright.
We turned the oven off and switched the burners off too. Then it hit me. If it looked like a tiny welder, then couldn’t that light blind us?! Immediately I started seeing spots in my vision. Derek, always calm, said it was because I’d just looked at a bright light. Yes, I said…but what if it was too bright? What if it’s like looking at an eclipse? Like the little girl my fifth grade teacher told me about, who looked at the eclipse and was blind by the time her mother called her downstairs for dinner. What if we are both going blind? Derek–your eyes are your life!
After that rant, I realized we probably weren’t going blind. I was just upset that there was a fire in the oven. For the record, my vision is fine now.
With the stove off {luckily the gravy had just finished as well} we decided it would be best if Derek ran to the store to pick up biscuits–since we wouldn’t be cooking any of our own.
While he was gone I stirred up the gravy and got it off of the stove. I did a few dishes, put a few things away. But then I turned around and saw a curl of black smoke sneaking out of the oven door. Curious, and determined not to look directly at the flame again {just in case} I opened the door. It didn’t take long to realize the flame had grown and there was a full on fire in the oven now. I call Derek. All of a sudden, I feel like I’m standing in the kitchen with a bomb. Like the oven will explode at any second. He tells me to keep an eye on it, to get the fire extinguisher out from under the sink–just in case.
Okay. I can do that. I get under the sink and release the fire extinguisher from is perch. Should it look this vintage? I think. Once I pulled it out and stood up I took a better look. Yes, it did look old–but maybe that’s just how it looks…after safety doesn’t need to be cutting-edge-cool. Then, on the front of the cylinder I spot the warning: Inspect monthly. Recharge if pressure is below range…Then, I see the date of issue: 1981. This fire extinguisher was made before I was born and who knows the last time it was charged, the indicator is deep in the “Recharge” section of the pie chart.
Just as I’m about to panic again–because I’ve got an explosive oven and a fire extinguisher that probably won’t be of any use to me–my phone rings. It’s Derek. “Unplug the whole thing, ” he says. I’m not sure why two highly educated adults didn’t think of that in the first place. Maybe because the plug is in the floor behind the oven and you have to roll it away from the wall to see it–out of sight, out of mind and all that bit. Or maybe it was because I was so freaked out. Either way, we hadn’t thought about it. I hung up the phone and went back to the kitchen. The top of the oven was hot as I pulled it away from the wall. Once I could see the plug, I dreaded having to go back and unplug it. It meant having to get down on my hands and knees on the floor in the space between oven and wall. A very vulnerable place to be when you are somewhat convinced the machine could blow up. {Irrational, I know.}
But, I’m one to face fears. So I did it. And the flames died down. And I didn’t have to use the fire extinguisher. And we learned a valuable lesson–you really should check your fire extinguisher and keep it up to date.
One good thing that came out of all of this is that I got a brand new stove. It’s beautiful and they brought it to me today. {I really procrastinated on buying another one after the road trip.} It’s got a giant oven, a flat stove top and I got it at major discount because it was a floor model at Menard’s. And now that I’ve got a working oven again…my only question is, “What should I make for dinner?”
Amy
PS–Seriously, check your extinguisher!
by Amy | Feb 11, 2015 | Blog, The Art of Living
you might not know too much about singing telegrams. Maybe you are picturing something late and outdated. So let me clear the air here. Kaite’s Singing Telegrams is different than what you might imagine. It’s fresh, funky and fun.
We talk about a lot of awesome things here. Am I right? Projects, books, faith, awesome photo sessions, cool designs…lots and lots of awesome things make their way across these pages. But today I’m going to tell you about one of my most favorite awesome things I’ve come across lately: Katie’s Singing Telegrams.
Total disclosure: Katie is my real life friend. She is awesome. But even if she wasn’t…I’d still probably be telling you about KST, because it’s really that great.
Now, you might be thinking that you should stop reading–because you aren’t into the whole singing telegram thing. But please, read on. Maybe, just maybe I can make a believer out of you yet. First, let’s meet Katie. I could tell you all about her…but the bio on her site pretty much says it all.
Katie has loved singing, making music and making people smile most of her life. She has spent the last ten years writing songs and making music with some of her favorite people. Katie and her husband moved up to the lovely land of Minot, ND the summer of 2013 and have absolutely loved getting to know the fantastic people up here. It wasn’t until May 0f 2014 that Katie began thinking of a Singing Telegram Business.
After searching relentlessly for a company to send a singing telegram to a family member for his birthday, Katie was discouraged at the high priced telegrams-reluctantly opting to send him a cookie bouquet instead. It was at this time that Katie and her husband began wondering if there was any sort of affordable Singing Telegram Business in Minot. Failing to find anything, they knew the moment had come for them to offer something to this Magic City- something that had brought both of them a ridiculous amount of joy and laughter.
Both Katie and her husband have full time jobs working with youth and their families. Seeing day to day how discouraging and challenging life can be, Katie cannot wait to spread a little joy combined with ridiculous-ness and music to those around her! YOU are invited to experience some of this joy in the form of a character of your choice, a ukulele or mandolin, a mug with treats and your own personalized song- what better way to spread some laughter and joy than having one of your favorite people be serenaded with songs and smiles!
Over coffee yesterday she told me that most affordable telegram she could find while trying to send one to her brother in law was over $100. At the end of the search she decided a fun memory wasn’t worth that much money…that he’d probably rather just have the $100 than a stranger in costume singing him a song. When she told me she was going to open her own singing telegram operation I declared her to be Minot’s Premiere Singing Telegram provider.
If you are like me…you might not know too much about singing telegrams. Maybe you are picturing something late and outdated. So let me clear the air here. Kaite’s Singing Telegrams is different than what you might imagine. It’s fresh, funky and fun. Even her website, designed by yours truly…looks fresh. It’s chock full of fun graphics and fresh-feeling pages that will make you love ordering from her boutique site.
Buying a telegram from Katie gets you a lot of bang for your buck. Katie will deliver a custom song to the recipient of your choice, at the location of your choice {work is usually a good place, but she can surprise them in any public space}, the recipient will get a framed copy of their song’s lyrics, and an adorable coffee mug filled with chocolates. Valentine’s Day deliveries also include a single rose, thanks to a blooming {pun intended} partnership with The Flower Box. All for $35! That’s less than a bouquet of flowers!!
My favorite part of KST is the songs. Katie has told me that she enjoys writing songs that are not “overly serious.” You’ll hear that in every line of her songs. Most are laid back originals that combine fun lyrics and a coffee house sound that I find to be charming and them some. Oh, and did I mention she accompanies herself with a ukelele. Yep! I think it’s one of her biggest selling points. Listen to all her songs here.
Now, if you are sitting at home starting to become a telegram believer…but are feeling a little bummed because you don’t live in Minot–don’t fret. {That’s another music pun. I’m two for two.} In addition to traditional deliveries…
Katie also offers videograms. She’ll customize a song, record it and send it to the person of your choice. It’s only $15! That’s a steal.
If you need a few more reasons to book your singing telegram…try one of these on for size.
**It’s super convenient. Just order online at her super-cute website and she’ll do all the leg work.
**It’s affordable. A gift they’ll never forget for less than a flower delivery. Katie warns that it can be awkward…but awkward or not–it’s always memorable.
**Your song can be delivered by Katie wearing a gorilla costume. I’m serious.
**A customized song is a unique gift, created just for them.
**It’s laid back, easy to do and completely fun.
In her own words, “I really do like to see people smile.” She is sincere. She writes songs and delivers them because she likes to spread a little fun and joy. Her very first delivery was to a teenager being treated at the local cancer center. Since then she’s sent videograms to multiple states and even one to a music teacher in a local school.
She loves learning the stories behind the songs she writes–especially at Valentine’s Day. Each one is special and unique. So whether you are looking for a special Valentine to send to someone you love in a romantic-mushy way–or just someone you love: a parent, child, bestie, or sibling–look no further than Katie’s Singing Telegrams: Minot’s premeire singing telegram provider.
Check out her website for more details. Like her Facebook page. Order Valentine-grams through Saturday morning!! {For all the procrastinators out there.} I pinky promise they’ll never forget it.
xo
Amy
by Amy | Jan 13, 2015 | Blog, The Art of Living
Hi all! If you aren’t on Facebook, then you probably missed the bonus surprise I mentioned last night. Just before Christmas I was invited to write a guest post on StartUp Mindset. They are a site dedicated to posting information and inspiration for start ups and entrepreneurs. I think they do a great job and I was honored to contribute to their plethora of information for business dreamers. That article is live on their site–you can read it here–and is all about how to go about tackling big goals. {The kind that are so big you don’t know how to approach them.} Even if you aren’t a business mind, it’s a good read for anyone taking on the challenge of a big goal.
Yesterday I kicked off a series about goals–partially inspired by what I wrote for StartUp Mindset. This week I’ll be talking about all kinds of things relating to goals. In yesterday’s post {read it here} I covered five tips for setting goals and getting them done. Today I’m back with the second half–five more tips to bring us to an even 10.
Setting Goals & Getting Them Done {continued…}
Timing and deadlines
Deadlines are a tricky subject when it comes to goals. On one hand–a deadline can push us toward completion. On the other hand–a deadline can make us feel like we have failed if it comes and goes without a finished product. For some things, I’m a big fan of deadlines. For others, not so much. It all depends on the goal. Here are a few things to consider when it comes to setting up a time table or deadline for your goal:
- The broader the goal, the more dangerous it is to set a deadline. Yesterday I talked about the importance of setting concrete goals. This will help avoid vague, unmeasurable goals…but even a concrete goal can be broad. If you are setting a broad goal, try to break it in to smaller pieces. A broad goal can encounter any number of changes and setbacks…a deadline can often become a stumbling block of frustration in these circumstances.
- Be realistic. Often, I think I can do more in a certain amount of time than I actually can. Be aware of your tendencies and try to be as real, and giving, with your deadline as possible.
- Know that deadlines on physical or fitness goals are usually not a good idea. Our bodies are all unique. Deciding to lose X number of pounds in Y number of days will often be a loosing battle. There are so many factors involved in a goal involving your body–injury, illness, body type, etc–that hinging progress on a date can lead to discouragement and the abandonment of the goal. {I’ll have more on fitness goals tomorrow}
- If you want a deadline, make it something that counts. If your deadline is just a random date you picked for yourself, with nothing riding on it, it’s going to be very easy to push it off–or erase it all together. Set a deadline that means something like–registering for a 5K {something paid is better than something free}; inviting out of state guests to stay the night on a certain weekend to propel that guest room remodel; applying to be a vendor at a craft show, to boost productivity on your Etsy shop inventory.
Check in on your progress
In our culture January is a big month for setting goals. That’s great. It’s wonderful to have a time of year that reawakens us to the idea of accomplishment; a time that reminds us to reevaluate and reignites our drive.
The problem with January is that is soon turns to February, March and April. The things that we were so fired up about on January 1st soon fade into the background as the holidays end, vacations come to a close and our “regular” life resumes. As the days and weeks go by, it’s easy for our goals to get pushed aside and given up on. However, this does not have to be the case. If you really want a goal to come to fruition, start with yesterday’s tips…then make absolutely sure you check in on your progress. Schedule these check ins. This can be something you do once a month, or even just once a quarter–just do it. Don’t beat yourself up if you’ve gotten off track since the last check in. That’s what a check in is for. Assess your progress, decide if you need more frequent check ins…and move forward.
Don’t make yourself crazy
I’m speaking to myself here. Maybe I’m speaking to you too. When I start on something, I like to get it done. I love working and I’ll work myself to the bone. I’ll work until the job is done, by body gives out, or an ambulance arrives to take me away. This, friends, can make me crazy. I never know when to quit…so I don’t.
The remedy that I’ve found {but don’t always follow} is to put some parameters on work and striving. Yours will be different than mine, and different than you closest friend’s. Your parameter might need to limit the amount of time you spend working on your goal. Maybe it means turning off the computer, turning notifications off on your phone when you are out with friends, shutting the door on that project room at a certain time of day, or simply committing to eating dinner at a table and having a conversation about something that isn’t your goal. Whatever your parameters are they should:
- Help maintain balance in your life and relationships
- Keep you social, keep your relationships alive
- Propel you toward a positive mindset {an over worked mind will quickly become frustrated and negative…neither of which is conducive to accomplishment.}
Be fluid
I don’t think every goal we ever set out on is meant to be accomplished. If we were, I would have gone to school on a shot-putting scholarship. Sometimes the path we take toward a certain goal can lead us to something better, more fulfilling. That whole shot-put thing didn’t work out for a scrawny 15 year old…but being on the track team did lead me to a love of running…which in turn led me to a career as a fitness instructor. That was a goal that suited my personality and my skill set better.
The point is to realize that goals are fluid. Continue to pray over your progress and over what your goals are and if they should be adjusted. Reread yesterday’s tips on prayerfully considering goals to keep you lined up with God’s will. You might check in on a goal one day and decide to stop advancing on it, preferring instead to go a different direction. That’s okay. Be fluid.
Revel in your success
As you set your goals and check in on your progress, remember to take stock of your success. Chances are you’ll have lots of little successes on the way to fully accomplishing goals. Keep your eyes set on the victories you’ve had and remember that changing a goal along the way doesn’t mean it’s failed. The number of goals we set and accomplish does not define our goodness or success as a person. Goals are meant to drive us, they are there to help define where we want to go and push us toward that point. Goal setting is not an exercise in setting yourself up for failure; it’s about becoming your best self and taking pride in the success you find along the way.
Tomorrow I’ll be posting about reaching fitness goals. But before you walk away from this general discussion of goals…take a look at this great article I came across from Celebrate Every Day With Me. It’s got Biblical keys to goal-setting and 25 verses of Scripture to meditate on when setting goals. It’s really a great read!
Amy
by Amy | Jan 12, 2015 | Blog, The Art of Living
For many of us, the first months of a new year can be a time of reflection and goal setting. I know lots of people who get jazzed about that. They are thrilled to look back at the good, bad and ugly that unfolded in the past 12 months. They assess it, learn from it and move forward with bold, improved steps. That’s great. More power to them. However, I also know lots of people who are intimidated by this time of year. Sometimes, even the most driven among us can become nervous at the thought of setting goals. For some {maybe me included} goal setting can be scary because it increases the chance at failure. If there is no goal, there is to measure. If there is no measure, there is no way of telling if you have succeeded or failed. Right?
No, actually that’s not right at all.
When the fear of failure stops us from trying, failure has already prevailed. When we don’t even begin to try self doubt forces us to fail at being our best selves. It robs the world around us of our best efforts, ideas, and ingenuity. That’s not fair to ourselves or our community. We were each designed with unique abilities and the capacity to do good work. {Eph. 2:10, James 2:14-26} Enter this new year bravely by setting some goals. This week I’m writing all about goals. All kinds of goals, all kinds of angles on goals. First up, I’ve got 10 tips on setting goals and getting them done. Because it’s very a little lengthy, I’m splitting it into two posts. Five tips today, and five tomorrow.
Setting Goals & Accomplishing Them
Going Places
When it comes to goal setting, I find it helpful to take every advantage I can get. Even if it’s a small advantage. Even if it’s almost made up.
When you set a goal for yourself think carefully about how you word it. Starting a goal with: I want to… already makes it seem out of reach. You want to…but something is standing in your way. You want to…but aren’t sure how. Instead, start with something a little more confident: I’m going to… This implies that you will. The following tips will help you set realistic goals, so you won’t set your self up for failure. {Unless your goal is, I’m going to set an unreachable goal…}
Make it concrete
Here’s the thing about me and goals. I’m awesome at accomplishing them…but I’m not the best at setting them. It’s partly because my brain is just so darn interested in so many things. I can never really decide what I want to put my mind to. What I want to excel at. However, when I do decide, I’m pretty keen at making it happen. This tip is about setting a goal you can actually see through: Make it concrete.
I’ve set “goals” for myself, only to realize that they are too broad and too general. They never come out the way I’d like them to. I end up feeling like a failure. It’s like they’re made of Jell-O. Laying out concrete goals will help you know exactly what you are working toward. You’ll be able to accurately assess your progress, you’ll know how the ending is supposed to look. Here are a few examples:
Jell-O Goal: This year I’m going to eat better.
Concrete Goal: I’m going to eat 2 raw lunches and 3 vegetable-heavy dinners every week of the next month.
{This goal works because it sets a bar for what is considered “better.” It also gives a realistic timeline. At the end of 30 days, you can reassess and adjust your diet before the next month begins.}
Jell-O Goal: I’m going to keep my house clean.
Concrete Goal: I’m going to pick up and put away random items left in the main rooms of my home every evening before bed, I’ll do a deep clean once a week. After a month, I’ll reassess the system.
Jell-O Goal: I’m going to be more organized.
Concrete Goal: I’m going to start clearing out my email inbox every Friday.
{Jell-O goals that have left me disappointed also include: This year my business will be more successful; I’m going to get better at prayer; I’m going to get back in shape. I’ve learned that it’s vital to personally define vague terms like “success,” “better,” “more,” “in shape,” etc. That way you’ll have a gauge for progress and success. Otherwise you are working toward a mirage.}
Find your system
Everybody has a system that works best for them. And by system, I mean organizational system. If you want to realize your goals, then you have to find your system. Maybe you already know it. Maybe your system includes lists, spreadsheets and labels. Maybe it’s more of a planner/ipad kind of thing. The method doesn’t matter nearly as much as the fact that you have one.
If you don’t know what works best for you, now is a perfect time to start looking. Make finding your “system” your very first goal of the year. As you seek out to improve on a system that’s already working for you {or to develop your first ever system} here are a couple things to keep in mind:
- it should keep you punctual
- it should prevent you from forgetting things
- it should keep you on track/propel you forward
- it should be maintainable for your lifestyle.
{No system is perfect. Yours should help you in these areas, but it probably wont’ make you perfect at any of them. If you happen across a system that makes you perfect and without fault…please send me an email, I’d like to know about it.}
Schedule it
Now that you have a good system, it’s time to start scheduling goal time. No matter what it is, put it on the schedule. Make an appointment {as often as you need/as often as life will allow} to work toward your goal. If you don’t schedule it, you’ll find yourself trying to eke it in at the last minute…or in moments of downtime. You’ll tell yourself you’ll get to it when everything else gets done…but that moment is very unlikely to ever actually arrive.
Put it on the schedule. Make it known that you’ll be keeping the appointment. Then keep it. The first time you cancel on yourself opens the gate to a slippery slope. It only becomes more and more easy to continue cancelling. Which leads me to…
Prioritize yourself
This is something I really struggle with. Maybe it’s because when it comes to my biggest goals, I’m worried I’ll fail. So I push myself to the end of the list, chronically saying “yes” to the needs of everyone around me…that way I have this built in excuse of why I didn’t get “it” done. I was too busy doing too many other things. Friends, this is a very bad strategy. Very bad.
It’s true that the Bible calls us to have a servant’s heart. {Here is a pretty long list of verses about serving.} However, if we chronically stretch ourselves too thin and never allow our spirits to breathe or dream–we are setting ourselves up to feel frustrated, discouraged, and bitter. God calls us to serve with a joyful heart. {2 Corinth 9:6-11} Satan lies to the most giving among us by implying that if we ever {even for a moment} prioritize ourselves, we are sinning and displeasing God. It’s just not true. God does not aim to oppress. {Galatians 5}
Prayerfully consider your goals before you start working toward them. Make sure you are working toward things that align with His word and glorify Him. Godly goals will never contradict the Word of character of the Lord. {Is. 8, Hebrews 13}Double check that you can do it in the name of Jesus. {Colossians 3:17} If what you are working toward passes those tests, will bring you closer to Him {even seemingly simple goals that relieve stress from your life, ie more organization, fitness, etc can do that} and will add to your testimony or spur others on to know Him–go for it. Know that it’s okay to prioritize yourself enough to work toward a worthy goal.
Think about those things tonight. I know it’s halfway through the month of January, but my guess is many of you are still thinking about goals, so I hope this has been even the teeniest bit helpful to you. Tomorrow I’ll be back with the second half of this article–five more tips for setting and reaching your goals. {And I just might have a bonus surprise for you, too!}
by Amy | Jan 3, 2015 | Blog, The Art of Living
Hi all!
I know it’s a Saturday, which usually means I don’t post…but we are several days into the new year and before it escapes any further, I wanted to throw up a quick “Year In Review” post. Thank you all for a great year. For all the support. For all of you who helped with projects, laughed at posts, were encouraged by my words. Thank you, thank you. I really like writing here, and it’s much more fun with you along for the ride. Maybe you’ll remember a few of these moments, too.
In January the world as I knew it became colder than I ever imagined. The polar vortex attacked the US and Practically Canada reached a level of chilly I thought only possible for polar bears to survive. A friend took waved her wet locks outside, it instantly froze and her photo went viral.
In February I finished my cloffice. Which I have used so much and have truly grown to love.
Also in February, our heater went out…which was a terrible experience; we had a cozy weekend at Lake Metigoshe; and my amazing mother turned 60…Derek and I honored her with this video.
March 7th changed life as I knew it…when I came home from teaching a low impact class at the gym, felt something weird in my back, and ended up in the hospital later that night. That day had a ripple effect that led to surgery, lots of faith testing, and physical challenges I’m still coping with. On the upside, the injury gave me the down time I needed to finish up a website redesign, and launch the new look of AmyAllender.com. All that to say, March was an important month in my life.
In April I taught you all how to recover basic thrift store chairs. This pair was made for our youth pastor’s office–a redecorating project I headed up…and a project I should get around to showing you some day…
In May, I learned about the art of Practically Canadian comfort food…and told you all the hilarious tale of my time making open faced sandwiches for a funeral. We started work on the basement {a slooow moving project} and got a new roof. Derek and I celebrated our 5th wedding anniversary with a trip to Maine, where I packed all purple clothes, explored the region with low impact activities, and spotted a moose!
In June, back surgery was eminent. So, as a last hoor-ah Katie and I went to Noah’s Ark Water Park. in the Wisconsin Dells. It was a magical weekend and I met a giant cat named Bunny Rabbit. {Slide photo via Noah’s Ark Facebook Page.}
On June 26th I had surgery, but I came out with the ability to walk and a new pair of hospital socks. Then I ate at my favorite pizza place in Bismarck. All in all, a success.
In July the basement got an egress window and waterproofed by a couple dudes singing Frozen, I made a nifty tote out of an old box and some rope, and we started memorizing Colossians {we are almost done now!}
At the end of the month we traveled to God’s Country, Elkhart, IN…where I experienced The Fair via wheel chair and we got some pics of the whole fam.
In August, I was telling those of you in Minot about the amazing sale at a local thrift shop, Derek was away in South Dakota, and the Arts Council gave me my first opportunity to shine as a local artist with this community canvas.
Also in August, I took a bunch of adorable Sunflower Mini Sessions!
But by the end of the month I was in so much pain from surgery, it looked like the operation had failed. The doctor was concerned and I was miserable. It was a battle of physical and spiritual proportions. At that time, I wrote one of the posts I’m most proud of: Grace and Peace. I hope you’ll read it. At the end of August, I honestly believe God performed a miracle in my life. You can read about it here.
In September, to continue healing and to give my mind some rest, I went to South Dakota to stay with Derek while he was on a temporary assignment. There I had an awkward moment at Devil’s Tower and I was taken aback by the beauty of Badlands National Park.
August also lead to the unveiling of two of my most popular design projects to date: An invitation and a thank you note.
In October we relieved the glory of our best costume ever when it was featured by the Huffington Post, I made spooky trees in my house, carved my best pumpkin, took a million senior portraits and joined the Artists in the Schools Program–which I LOVE! Oh, yeah and we dressed up as Care Bears.
November was Christmas Mini Session month! Most of the month was dedicated to churning out great family photos.
But I also hosted a great Thanksgiving, learned what “spatchcocking” is, and taught kids about the water cycle through art.
In December, I had a fabulous time at the White Christmas Ball in Denver.
And, I was flattered and stunned by the great response I got to my post on things to do and see during the Practically Canadian winter.
It’s been a busy year, and a good year. There has been lots of pain–there’s no denying that…but I’m grateful for the chance to over come and to get to know our amazing God more and more through every trial. I hope you can look back on the past 12 months–no matter how hard they’ve been–and realize just how special, fantastic, one-of-a-kind you are. Then take that pride and boldly move forward. There’s only one 2015, let’s make it amazing.
Amy
by Amy | Dec 30, 2014 | Blog, The Art of Living
I hope you’ve all had a grand Christmas and are gearing up to celebrate in style tomorrow night as we wave “G’bye” to 2014 and usher in a brand new year.
As usual Derek and I journeyed to our home town in God’s Country {Indiana} for the holiday. It was lovely and unseasonably warm. I visited with my very dear family and some of my dearest friends…we only see each other if I traverse to California, or if we are all home for the holidays. I’m back to Practically Canada now…feeling refreshed and invigorated. Both by the restful week away and the subzero wind chill that I’ve over heard locals referring to as “brisk.”
One of these lovely friends I got to catch up with paid me a compliment that has rooted its way into my heart and made my whole soul smile. He told me that I have a gift for seeing humor in every day life. I never thought of it as a gift. I just figured everyone could look around and find comedy unfolding in every direction. From the evening news to interactions at they gym, and conversations I’ve over heard at the coffee shop…it’s true–I see hilarity happening all around me. So, if it is a gift, or a super power, I’ll claim it with pride.
While we were visiting I told him many tales from Practically Canada. But there was one he particularly liked. Today, before the holidays get too far behind us, I’ll tell you as well.
{This is what I feel like shopping at the mall at Christmas. Image via ChipChick}
The date was Thursday December 18, 2014. Because Derek and I were heading to Indiana on Friday the 19th, I had about a million errands to run before we loaded the car to leave. One such errand was to the {dreaded} mall. I don’t care how small your town is. The mall is not the place you want to be less than a week before Christmas. Especially if you have a cranky streak, like I do, and tend to get fussy when you can’t find/they don’t have/you think it’s too pricey.
I pulled in to the insane parking lot. Because the chaos was so eminent, I reverted to an old mall-going trick I learned back in high school: there’s always parking at Sear’s. It’s true. Unless you are buying an appliance or some tools…you probably won’t park at Sear’s. Think about it. Do you know anyone who parks at Sear’s because they plan to do most of their shopping there? I sure don’t.
So I park and go in to Sear’s. I’m now power walking because I have a thousand tiny things to pick up from all different stores and I have an urgent need to remove myself from the mall as quickly as possible. As I’m flying by the shoe section, I see her. She’s across a shoe rack that has been placed in the middle of the aisle, her face slightly obscured, but I see her nonetheless. Tall, perfectly done eye make up, and a cute, sparkly headband–as usual.
I’m two full days from my last shower, sporting gym clothes, touting a makeupless face {save for some mascara that had been applied days earlier}.
I’m aware of how I look. But I also want to be friendly. Normally, I force myself to “place the face” before speaking…as in–I have to know where I know them from before saying “Hi.” But for whatever reason, be it the cheer of the season, the urgency in my stride, or simply a lapse of judgement…I hear the words “Oh, hey,” come out of my lips. As soon as I said it, I regretted it.
I have no clue who this girl is.
She smiles awkwardly back at me and mutters a greeting. I’ve stopped in my tracks. Like we are going to have a conversation. I’m short and she’s tall and the ratty shoe rack is between us. I take a few weird steps forward and turn to look at her. Now on the same side of the rack. We make eye contact. I’m rolodexing my whole brain, straining to place who this person is.
“Did you think I was someone else?” She asks. Now here’s where things get weird. The correct thing to do, would be to reply, “Yes.” Then walk away. Because I’m me…that’s not what I did. I stand there and make it weird.
“No, I thought you were you.” WHY would I say that? What does that even mean? “Your affiliated with the base, right? Or your husband is?”
“Ummm, no. I’m not in the military and I’m not married.”
“Really? You don’t do anything at the base?”
“Nope.”
Silence. Then I decide to cut my losses and bail. “Okay. Sorry about that.” I walk away. But I walk away smug…because I’m sure {super sure} that I know her from somewhere. I’m confident that we are friends on Facebook. And when I get home I’m going to look her up, then send her a message. Okay, maybe not the message thing…but I’m confident I’ll find her and that I’ll prove we are indeed friendly acquaintances. Then I’ll put this awkward moment behind me for good.
I rack my brain for the rest of the shopping trip. I’m still thinking about it when I sit down at home to check email. I’m cursing Facebook for not having a search feature that will allow me to narrow my results by “tall, wears sparkly headbands, has good eyeliner.” I sit and close my eyes and try to picture her in the setting I know her from. Gym? No–you don’t wear headbands that pretty to the gym. Military? She made it clear it wasn’t that. Downtown? Maybe…
Then, all of a sudden it hits me. I see it clearly in my mind. She has a blue vest on. She’s sweeping. She’s scanning.
She works at Hobby Lobby.
{this is a generic image via World Mag}
She doesn’t know me. Not at all. We are not friends. I don’t even know her name. Smugness crushed. Looks like one too many trips to the craft store this Christmas. Awkward. So awkward. For being so friendly and for a person who talks so much, you think I’d be less weird. Nope.
So, to the girl who works at Hobby Lobby: Hi. It’s Amy. I’m awkward and I’m sorry for being so weird that time at Sear’s. I like your headbands. Thanks for being such a good cashier. You are always really quick with the coupon code and I really appreciate that. K bye.
Have you had a moment like this? I sure hope your last days of 2014 are awkwardness free. Thanks for sticking around…even though I’m so weird.
Amy
by Amy | Dec 16, 2014 | Blog, The Art of Living, The Art of the Moment
When Jessica got in touch with me to ask if I’d be willing to do a photo session for her and a group of friends I was immediately excited. I know this group. I like this group. They are 100% fun.
In Jessica’s initial message asking about the session she told me that they wanted to capture this unique season in life. Young, unmarried, most of them living away from family. In a lot of ways this group of friends has become family. And that’s a magical, special thing. Maybe as you scroll through these images you’ll see a piece of yourself and your own friends looking back at you. I hope you’ll smile as you remember those good times with the family that didn’t share your DNA. Or that you’ll feel especially grateful for your own amazing friends. Or that you’ll pick up your phone and send a message {or actually place a call} to a friend from a season in your life that has come and gone. Moments are special and relationships are gifts worth cherishing…a big thanks to every single member of this group for letting me hang out and capture the art of this moment for you.
You might be wondering what it is about these people that is so dear to me. Well…let me tell you. As you can tell by that list I wrote up of things to do in-and-around Minot this winter, I like doing things. And I like people who do things. This group does things. They go out, they stay in, they are welcoming and hospitable to new-to-the-area folks and {correct me if I’m wrong} the Minot Young Adult Facebook group sprung from this very gang.
I simply adore that these antlers were worn constantly during the session.
This was a VERY windy, very snowy, very cold day. But what is a full length, Practically Canadian, Christmas photo session without a few outdoor shots? So, we watched the window carefully. And when the snow and wind had calmed enough that we could actually see more than a pure sheet of white…we bundled up and braved the cold. It was very brave.
Then they literally ran back inside for more cookie making. I’ve never seen so much raw cookie dough consumed in one sitting before. I’m not judging. I’m not even mad…I’m impressed. Oh, and please notice the amazing cookie cutter shapes they had.
by Amy | Dec 11, 2014 | Blog, The Art of Adventure, The Art of Gathering, The Art of Living
This year I’m celebrating my golden birthday. 28 on the 28th of December. I know it hasn’t quite happened yet…but with a birthday that close to Christmas, I’m usually worn out, full of over eating, or on the road driving cross country on the actual day. This year, this golden year, I was determined to make sure my birthday rocked.
I told Derek the only thing I wanted was tickets to the White Christmas Ball in Denver. Yes, that’s an extravagant request. But I wanted it so bad. And, Derek is amazing. So we went. And it was fabulous. The best party I’ve ever been to. The best birthday gift I’ve ever gotten.
{It should be noted that photos being shared in this post were mostly not taken by me…as I was determined to enjoy the moment instead of documenting it. You can click the images to go to their sources. Most of them are from the fabulous Sheila Broderick Photography. The ones that look really cruddy were–no doubt–taken on my phone.}
You might be wondering what the White Christmas Ball is and how I came across it. By now, you should know that I’m an expert at finding really fun things to do. It’s just a knack I have. When something amazing in mentioned to me, I file it away in my beady little brain and pull it out at just the right time. In this case, I heard of this little ditty from a friend while we were shopping at Minot’s city wide garage sale. She saw a 1940’s military cap and said it’d be perfect for the 1940’s Ball. I have that moment, and Google to thank for getting me to Denver last weekend.
This event is actually an off shoot of the 1940’s Ball. A non-profit summer event in Denver that celebrates the Greatest Generation with a…1940’s themed ball. The White Christmas Ball is the winter side of things. The 1940’s Ball is a nonprofit organization, whose proceeds benefit the Wounded Warrior Project and the Spirit of Flight Center in Colorado.
Okay, back to the ball. I think the thing I love most about this event is that it is attended by participators. People who are willing to commit to the theme, come in era-appropriate dress, and have a great time. As soon as we walked in to the venue, the atmosphere started to swallow me up. The Christmas decor, the lighting, the 1000 guests all beautifully dressed, and the amazing live music threw off an aura of warm, cozy, Christmas fun just waiting to be had.
The even staff does a great job of making sure there is lots to see and do. There is a vintage vendor fair, touting retro clothing and nostalgic memorabilia. Food trucks with some of the best mac ‘n’ cheese I’ve ever consumed. A huge dance floor. Continual live music, only occasionally broken up by live entertainment. Attire contests. Photo stations. Beautiful pro-photos from Cake and Knife Photography. And when your feet are tired of dancing {or for those of us still nursing a somewhat bad back…} there was a movie theater that played White Christmas, It’s a Wonderful Life, and The Glenn Miller Story.
{via Sheila Broderick}
{via Sheila Broderick}
My second favorite thing about this event is that it’s full of people who know how to have a good time. They dance because they like it, not because they are peer pressured into it. And no one needs to be drunk to make their way to the dance floor. Was alcohol available? Sure, but it wasn’t the center of the party. I respect that. I like that. As a girl who never mixes drinking and dancing {my dancing is plenty crazy without the extra influence}, I love being surrounded by people who can have an uninhibited great time–and this party was full of them. There were even a handful of WWII vets cutting a rug with pretty girls on the floor. That’s an image I’ll never forget.
For those that weren’t up for dancing themselves, there were several great live performances to watch. And wish you could move like that. The group below, 23 Skidoo, rocked my world.
{via Sheila Broderick}
{via Sheila Broderick}
And what’s a White Christmas party without a few numbers from the movie?
At one point we stopped to take a photo with a Christmas Story vignette and a gal from 9News saw us. She took this photo and put it up on the station’s website along with others from the night.
{via 9News}
I really cannot say enough good things about the bands that played. Amazing! Just amazing. Toward the end of the night Rat Pack impersonators did a set with the The Hot Tomatoes Dance Orchestra. Hands down my favorite music of the night. These guys were so perfect it was trippy.
{via Sheila Broderick}
{via Sheila Broderick}
The only thing that was a little off was this large, mustached man who appeared on stage with “Bing Crosby” and introduced himself as “Danny Kaye.” I’m thinking there must have been some last minute change of plans…because he looked nothing like the limber, leggy, ginger we all know and love.
But really, who cares? Because while they were on stage they did a balloon drop!
{via Sheila Broderick}
Seriously this was an amazing night. A night so good it made up for every disappointing, lackluster New Year’s Eve I’ve ever spent. This is the greatest party I’ve ever been to. And I’m convinced it’s the closest I’ll ever come to the real Columbia Inn in Pine Tree, VT. So, thank you, thank you, thank you to the 1940’s Ball team for putting on such a great event.
And outside the venue–the Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum–was a bedazzled B-52. So…yeah…
