Lazy W Marie

Carpeing all the diems in semi-rural Oklahoma...xoxo

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Random Tuesday Evening Thoughts

   My mind is swimming with thoughts this evening, boiling even, in a very pleasant way. By contrast the Oklahoma skies are dark, damp, and heavy, so these kinetic thoughts are comforting. The silent headlines are so undulating and cryptic, though, that I can barely organize my sentences. I really can’t be sure whether any of this is even connected, but I feel like we’re on the precipice of something big in our little family, so stamping the moment might be a good idea.
  
   Peace in the midst of a storm is a funny thing to me. Although no circumstances have changed for us, in fact only more time has accumulated with difficulty unchanged, I feel inexplicably better and on a cellular level. Far more assured in my heart that not only are things going to be alright; things are exactly as they should be right now, including the pain and questions. These are a vital part of life, after all, and I should not hope to be exempt from the testing. None of our dreams have been abandoned. Of course I have questions and moments of fear, but that steady, glowing peace is real. I trust that God is in control and I know that He is nothing but Love and Mercy.

   The weather here begs a lot of attention, by the way. From meteorological records broken to prophecies  teased at and environmental issues debated, things will be blogged. Soon.

   I have boasted quite a bit about my husband on here but am now privately enjoying a renaissance of love for him and suppose I can share that too. Deep, resounding love. One of the surprises provided by ten years of marriage is the repeating opportunity to see him in a different light. I watch him face challenges and mature and refine himself as a man. I learn things about myself through his eyes. And I renew the most important convictions between us.

These are Handsome’s strong, capable hands comforting a baby guinea. 
Earlier that day these hands had dealt with crisis after crisis at work
and balanced the best interests of many people for whom he cares sincerely.
Later that night these hands were mine.

   Legacy is in the air right now, due in part to the seasonal shift and the winter calendar being heavily laden with family traditions. But I know it’s also a result of so much thinking about and praying for the girls. My sister and her children are still grieving unspeakable loss, too, and words to comfort them escape me. They will certainly struggle with legacy for many decades, but they will also receive Grace when they need it most.  
   My grandparents are with me a lot these days too, further underscoring the theme of legacy. Tonight my  cousin Emily and I shared a brief but powerful exchange about childhood memories of our shared grandmother. I was struck by the simple aspects of Grandma’s daily life that ended up being her legacy.

The top frame contains a pencil and marker drawing by my Grandma. 
She was a beautiful, olive skinned, eclectic woman 
who made the most dramatic vase arrangements from just wildflowers and weeds. 
She would probably laugh that so many of us in the family 
keep these doodles and treat them like relics, 
but to me this crispy, yellowed sheet of paper is a reminder 
to live simply and draw beauty from common things.

   Outside my kitchen window is a section of earth destined to be an herb garden! My very own potagerie, something purposefully different from the larger vegetable garden out back. I have been slowly conditioning the soil there and will soon be contouring the area with hardy Liriope. Then wild garlic, daffodils, boxwood, lavender hedges, rosemary, and poppies. I can hardly contain myself!!! Every kitchen does really need its own private garden, and I really looking forward to sharing the folklore, art, and science behind my plans.

   In a few weeks we will be participating in a chicken coop Christmas decorating contest, so I am collecting amazing ideas from all over the place and deciding which ones are worth the expense of time. We are talking about chickens and geese, after all, and they are messy. They are sweet but terribly challenged in the manners and classiness department.

   This is my favorite song lately. In fact anything this girl ever sings makes me warm and gooey. This live version starts off kinda iffy, so please be patient and give it a chance! Go brush your teeth or something and come back once it’s buffered or whatever.

Wishing you more order in your own thoughts but just as much peace and joy.
xoxoxo

Right Central Incisor # 8

   Earlier this week, another front tooth bit the dust. If my memory is correct, then this makes Dental Event Number Nine in my thirty-seven twenty-five years on earth. It’s a little bit exhausting. It’s a lot expensive.
   I would so like to tell you that I lost this tooth white water rafting, that the waves crashed me up against a mossy boulder and bloodied my nose, but that I am such a good swimmer I dove down and retrieved my tooth from the fish-laden river before helping reclaim the floating oars.
   I would like to say that I lost this tooth while doing yet another P-E-R-F-E-C-T back-handspring with a round off when an earthquake hit the farm and I had no choice but to crumble to the ground, face first.
   I would like to say that I was wrestling our little buffalo, holding him sternly by the horns, when a hay truck drove past the front gate and distracted us both, resulting in a sudden mouth injury from his massive horns.
   I would also like to say that I am kidding, that I did not spend half of my week at the dentist and that we are not lining my mouth with paycheck after paycheck. But none of these things is true. I just felt the tooth (it’s actually a crown, per the previous injuries) fall off into my hand as I was about to take a sip of coffee. Simple as that. Quiet. No blood. No pain. No drama. Also no pity.
   It seems that aside from adjacent frustration, losing one’s tooth in no spectacular way begs precious little comforting. Anyway, I am so over this. I am thankful, however, to have the crown reattached now, delaying the pricier and far more painful and time consuming implant process.
   This is a first-world problem, as my friend Julia likes to say, so I really should stop with the complaining. I am grateful to go to the dentist and to have a dentist I like so much. I am grateful I wasn’t white water rafting, because being a good swimmer is irrelevant if you are afraid of fish. I am grateful that I wasn’t doing back handsprings when an earthquake hit, because I can just imagine how many stickers I would be tweezing out of my hands. And the idea of me wrestling our little buff is silly. He’s a lover, not a fighter.
I’m also grateful that my dentist is so patient with my neurotic tendencies. I tend to hold onto the chair for dear life and forget how to breathe the second I sit down in that chair. Still, I trust him completely, which makes all the difference. I can’t imagine dealing with someone who doesn’t take the time to talk through every step of the procedure. It’s reassuring to know that some places, like those offering cosmetic dentist henderson, not only focus on the aesthetics of a smile but also prioritize a comfortable, stress-free experience.
You’d think after all these years of regular visits, I’d be over the whole dentist anxiety thing, but here I am—grateful that I haven’t had any surprises like a root canal out of nowhere. And I’m even more thankful for the little things—like how my dentist’s office has the best selection of magazines, which, for some reason, always make the waiting time fly by. All in all, I’ll take a good dentist over anything else, even if I do get nervous about the sound of the drill.
Despite my ongoing dental anxieties, I’ve found that the more I trust my dentist, the easier it gets to face those appointments. It’s comforting to know that there are options available to make dental care more comfortable, especially for those who experience fear or stress at the thought of a procedure.
For instance, if you’re someone who’s hesitant about traditional braces, seeking an alternative to braces can be a game-changer. Treatments like clear aligners can straighten teeth discreetly and comfortably, offering a less intrusive option while still delivering impressive results. Finding a dentist who listens to your concerns and offers solutions like this makes all the difference in creating a positive dental experience.
Of course, dental health isn’t just about cleanings and cavity prevention—it’s also about feeling confident in your smile. Crooked teeth, discoloration, or uneven spacing can affect not only how you look but also how you feel about yourself. That’s why cosmetic dentistry has become such a game-changer for so many people. Treatments like veneers offer a quick and effective way to achieve a flawless smile, covering imperfections and enhancing the natural shape of your teeth.
A good cosmetic dentist understands that it’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a smile that feels comfortable and natural. The right approach can boost confidence and make you feel more at ease during everyday interactions, which is why finding a skilled professional who listens to your goals is so important. A Los Angeles Veneer Doctor understands the nuances of creating a natural, radiant smile while preserving the integrity of your teeth. Veneers are customized to fit your facial structure and personal style, ensuring that your smile looks effortless and balanced.
Experts in veneers can guide you through the process, from selecting the right shade and shape to ensuring a comfortable fit. The result is a smile that not only looks great but also feels right. Cosmetic dentistry isn’t just about appearance—it’s about improving the way you feel about yourself. And when you trust your dentist to deliver that kind of transformation, it makes each appointment that much easier.
Building trust with patients is essential for any dental clinic, and a well-crafted marketing strategy plays a significant role in fostering that connection. From highlighting patient testimonials to showcasing advanced treatment options, an effective online presence ensures that potential patients feel confident in their choice of care. The Dental SEO Group specializes in helping dental practices enhance their visibility, making it easier for patients to find compassionate and skilled professionals who prioritize both comfort and aesthetics.
With strategic search engine optimization, engaging website content, and targeted digital advertising, clinics can reach individuals who may otherwise avoid dental care due to anxiety or uncertainty. By focusing on patient education and clear communication, dental practices can position themselves as trustworthy providers, ensuring that more people feel at ease scheduling appointments and taking control of their oral health.

At the heart of a truly trusted dental service is the ability to blend skill with empathy—something that nervous patients, like myself, can instantly recognize. Dental care isn’t just clinical; it’s deeply personal. That’s why clinics like dentistlasvegasnevada.com have earned a loyal following—not only for their expertise, but for the way they make patients feel heard and supported. From the front desk to the dental chair, there’s a noticeable commitment to making each experience feel less like a chore and more like self-care.

It’s not just about fillings and flossing, either. Many patients are turning to advanced treatments that improve both function and aesthetics, like same-day crowns, teeth whitening, or clear aligners. The best providers don’t rush you into decisions—they walk you through the options, explain the benefits, and tailor each plan to your lifestyle and goals. With so many modern solutions available, practices that take time to personalize care stand out for all the right reasons.

Happy weekend everybody! Brush your teeth and kiss them goodnight.
xoxoxo

Humble Pansies, Happy Thoughts

Autumn blooms, bright and clean, facing the sun 
calmly, quietly, with perfect optimism.
Your freshness and vivid colors inspire me.
Despite the cold air, beneath the wind and mist, 
you sit patiently, needing very little.
Thank you for your simplicity. 
Thank you for reminding me
 that beauty resides in every little humble space.

Mama's Losin' It

Turkey Warning

   It hit me yesterday that we are on the brink of Holiday Season 2011. It hit me like a frozen turkey on the wiggly part of my kneecap, but in a surprisingly good way. Now listen, I am not really a fast-forward-to-Christmas type person. In fact I greatly prefer to savor each holiday and special event as it comes, making it last as long as possible. But I also like to be prepared, and we all know that once Thanksgiving hits, the winter sands fall fast and furious through December’s hourglass. And this year I have sworn to N-O-T wrap gifts in the back seat of the car while Handsome drives us to a Christmas party. Nor will I mix A-N-Y dough that has to rise and bake in the same half hour. So I have some planning to do. Care to join the madness?

This is Clark Kent, aka General Grievous (because of his fantastic running style).
He is our big Tom turkey. He knows nothing of the American tradition of eating turkey dinner,
and we would appreciate your help in keep things this way.
His sense of personal safety helps him focus on supervising the smaller birds, 
which is his self appointed farm duty.

   Okay. As of right now, twenty-one days stand between me and our first scheduled holiday dinner of the year. And of those twenty-one days, seven are devoted to weekend fun with friends and family, so really fourteen days are available to prepare for Thanksgiving, winterize the farm, sew up some sell-able aprons, and  keep the animals fat and happy. Hopefully I’ll be spending some time with my beautiful girls too!

   Oh, and about ninety seven minutes ago I broke my O-T-H-E-R front tooth, 
so there’s that added to the calendar.  I am not even kidding.

  Inspiration is in no short supply.  Here are a few of my faves:

  • The Taste of Home website, which is packed with wonderful, more traditional recipes and bits of planning advice. Their article about planning ahead throughout the month of November could not have  posted at a better time!
  • Pinterest, where I can feed voraciously off of the creativity of others and assemble boards of my own like this one.
  • Country Living magazine (the only periodical I still get in print.  Unless you count the Anthropologie and seed catalogs, which I do N-O-T but perhaps I should)
  • Martha Stewart, in every possible incarnation.
Pinned Image
Yes, I still pay attention to her.  And I always will.
But the best part of this photo is not her oak leaf cornucopia craft project
but rather that old, chippy table and the candlelight glow of the whole arrangement!
Wow.
I have the normal seasonal chores to do:
  • fiercely editing and scrubbing the fridge, freezer, and pantry 
  • organizing and restocking the spice rack 
  • taking inventory of table linens and mending, pressing, or adding to that as needed
  • setting up a really great baking station and a ready-for-anything food packaging drawer
  • shopping early and thoroughly to avoid the eleventh hour crowds
  • cleaning underneath the furniture and inside the closets forgotten over the long summer
I see a handful of special projects on the immediate horizon, too.
  • re-cushion and recover the seats of our dining room chairs (Been meaning to do this for a while. A long while. It’s embarrassing.) as well as two old church pews
  • repaint the interior doors and frames and a few baseboards
  • sew a few special aprons (Have I told you guys about Tie One On Day yet?)
  • lots of fun crafts as time permits
  • prepare for the chicken coop Christmas decorating contest we’re entering
A few lists would be good.
  • Which parties are we hosting? Which are we attending? What recipes? Write a master detailed cooking list.
  • What Christmas gifts are being handmade and which are being purchased? I had better be well underway by Thanksgiving! This means one project completed every two days or more.
  • What recipes can be prepared ahead of time and frozen, and when will I be home to do this?
  • Which projects can be worked on in the evenings, watching movies with Handsome?
  • I will need to make visible, tangible progress every single week day. Every day counts. Use a calendar.
   
Pinned Image
   I am under no illusion that everything will be done perfectly and ahead of schedule. I am honestly relieved just to have organized my thoughts and started some shopping. Whatever unseen force kick started me yesterday must have known that today I would break my tooth again, because had I not already cleared the cobwebs from my mind I would already be surrendering to anxiety.  Instead, I am truly happy to see the holiday season approach!  We have so many blessings to count, so much love to enjoy, no amount of cleaning, crafting, or cooking could really do it justice.
   Here’s wishing you an organized but festive month of preparation for Thanksgiving and beyond! Count the good things in your world. Especially your front teeth.
xoxoxo

Another Reason to Love Mornings

    Do you adore mornings? Early morning is my very favorite time of day, that slice of time between the darkest hours of night and the palest, most timid moments of dawn. Everything is hushed. Generally the air outside is calm, no matter the season. The house is still and lit only here and there by a few golden pools of light. I am almost always the only one awake at this time, and it’s a wonderful time for perfect coffee.  
   Early morning is when my mind is most fluid and able to tap into that collective stream of life’s possibilities.  Everything feels fresh, possible, and important.  While the sun is trying to reach over the east field, I always think I can do anything and that everything good and worthy can still happen.  
   This evening I ran across a few sentences that spoke volumes to me even before I realized they were spoken by one of this past century’s most quotable men, John Wayne:
“Tomorrow is the most important thing in life.
Comes into us at midnight very clean.
It’s perfect when it arrives,
and it puts itself in our hands.
It hopes we’ve learned something from yesterday.”

   What do you think about this? Are you as enamored as I am by the gift of a new morning, by the opportunity and obligation to do better in this new day than we did in the previous one? No need to wait until January first of next year; we have new beginnings available to us every single day. And so we should be deeply grateful for every single day.
   We see in the Old Testament even more encouragement to love dawn: 
“It is of the Lord’s mercies 
that we are not consumed,
because his compassions fail not.
They are new every morning:
great is thy faithfulness.”
Lamentations 3:22-23

   I encourage you to read that entire chapter in Lamentations. Especially if you are in the mode of counting your blessings, these passages are both humbling and strengthening, filled with encouragement to lean on God.  Rely on Love.
   If you spend your earliest morning moments preparing for the day rather than rushing into it, framing your thoughts and collecting your energies, I suspect you’ll enjoy the results.  Actively see the day as you want it to play out.  Harness the power of your imagination.  Resist fear and negative thinking; shun regret; embrace newness and strength. You’ll be in decent company!  Marcus Aurelius once said, 
“A man’s life is what his thoughts make of it.” 
   This is not meant to imply that thoughts are all that matter, only that positive thinking is certainly a positive beginning and perspective matters a great deal.  And in my opinion the morning is an ideal time to secure your perspective.
   When I wake up tomorrow morning, I am determined to…

Pray those prayers I’ve been weary of for so long, the stuff I am close to believing will never happen
Be a better steward of my time, energy, material resources, & talents.
Be more appreciative for my abundance and for mercy.
Be kinder, more patient, and more compassionate than I was before.
Give more affection to our animals.
Reach out to loved ones in ways I haven’t tried so far.
Believe the best about people then act on that belief.
   On any given day, miracles can happen. Amazing surprises are lurking behind every sunrise, and I never want apathy, fear, or staleness in my own mind to preclude a miracle for myself or for a loved one.  
   Tomorrow morning, if you will, please pray for my family. Especially for my two daughters, Jocelyn and Jessica, and my two sisters, Angela and Genevieve. I hope your tomorrow arrives to you clean and is filled with mercies. I hope your tomorrow is richer and wiser than today, even if today was wonderful.  
xoxoxo