Time Out for Women

Me with Jen Payne at Time Out for Women

Time out for Women is where it's at...for women, of course.  There were a few brave men there, and really, I have to say, they need a Time Out for Men too.  Lots of good life lessons and hope and inspiring talks.  Some of our presenters were men who were in touch with both sides of their emotions while being very manly.

My favorite was Richie Norton who has written this book that is making it's way to my door in a few days. We were able to browse through the many books for sale by other presenters and I spent a good 15 minutes 'speed reading' through his- I think I made it to about chapter 4 (sh! don't tell).  So with that intro, I already know from his presentation and the four chapters I digested that he is onto real advice.

His book,  The Power of Starting Something Stupid: How to Crush Fear, Make Dreams Happen, and Live without Regret, though it's a long title, needs to have this long title.  Each word addresses all that he talks about- starting to live a real life with action and don't worry how stupid things look- just do it because deep down inside you are trying to do your best and make a positive impact.

After last weekend, if you see me do stupid things, just say "Bless her heart, I know she's trying to do her best!"  and love me, hug me, and maybe say a prayer for me.  Life isn't meant to be lived in a chair, sitting down.  

Now that "my" time-out is over, and I'm back to 'mom' duties, I'm 'in it to win it' and make my dreams happen.

Check out his book and tell me what you think?!

In harmony,

Leslie

Band and First Day of School

David and Pierce- hip 6th graders

Here is the picture of Pierce after school on his first day of middle school!  He and friend David are taking band.  Here in Arlington, WA, band starts in 6th grade- which is a little late, but we'll take it.

Pierce is going to play trumpet, because that was the instrument on hand.  Plus we have all the books.

David planned on playing the trumpet...until today.  Before school let out, his mom told me they had just rented David's trumpet and got a shiny new one- yehaw! David walks all smooth to the car and says  "Guess what Mom?! I get to play the french horn!"

I wish I had a video of the laugh that came out of Mom's mouth.  Priceless music moment!

Hooray for the first day of school!

Surprises and Locks of Love

Rapunzel let down your hair

 



My girl Madison is showing some hutspa and confidence. 

She's been doing a Rapunzel thing, growing her hair down to her waist.  Her hair is lovely, but how manageable will it be in Peru??

 When I told her about back-to-school haircuts for the other kids, I expected her to decline because she's going for the longest hair record.  Surprise- she said 'sure'.

Me:  Are you just getting a trim?
Madison:  I'm getting a cut and a style.
Me:  Like a few inches and some layers kind of style?
Madison:  No, like taking a lot off and a style.
Me:  Are you getting bangs? Are you going to do Locks of Love?
Madison:  You'll see.

 



Madison likes to leave her mom hanging.  She had a plan in her mind before we hit the salon.  I usually stew for days over magazines or online and still can't make up my mind on a style.   Not my girl.  Madison was as cool as a cucumber, walked in, flipped open a hair style book, and pointed to a rather short haircut.  I don't think she'd EVER had her hair this short.  Reagan and I looked at each other and smiled!  This is going to be great.

 

 



Madison is prepping for 18 months in Peru, partial city life and partial life in villages- who knows what haircare will be like there.  Also, she's rounding the adulthood corner of becoming 21.  The world is wide open when you are 21.  She's taking it with a whole new look.

I'm proud of you Madison, not only for donating to Locks of Love, but taking a risk on a new look, and being so mature.  Your new doo ROCKS!!