IdahoianConsiderations

Article I Wrote for CWC Intranet

2010-12-23T11:56:00.000-08:00

Envisioning A Workplace of Possibility

The holidays are approaching -- a time of wonder and delight, mistletoe and magic. Yet with the joy and delights of the season, also comes added stress and pressure, particularly here at Coldwater Creek. These darkest days of December are merely prelude to month-end, the new calendar year, fiscal year-end, performance reviews, tax season…the list goes on. With the recent downsizing, we are also faced with more work, less resources, longer hours, greater demands, and more change. Often, when pressure and demands rise, so too do stress, negativity, resentment and overwhelm. But there is another option….

What would it be like to come to work and be surrounded by individuals doing their best work, focused on what matters most and smiling?

How would it feel to enjoy the challenge of the season, connect as a team in pursuit of a common goal and laugh while working, even when mistakes are made and corrected?

What would it be like to generate in our workplace a sense of enduring optimism, a mindset of possibility and an energetic presence which conveys connection, care and compassion?

What would it feel like to be seen by others for our innate greatness and, in turn, see others for their innate greatness as well?

While it might sound somewhat naïve or idealistic, the workplace envisioned above is possible. It is an option we all have to create for ourselves, for all those with whom we work, for Coldwater Creek. There is no doubt that times have been hard lately. I know first hand the experience of loss and disorganization common to so many. Yet despite these challenges, a choice stands before us – the choice to be in our present reality and optimize the experience. A choice to design the culture we want to work in and envision it, create it, live it.

A sound business case supports this choice. Ample studies on mood and productivity tell us that:

• people in good moods think more positively and comprehensively during decision-making
• upbeat moods boost cooperation and teamwork
• positive environments lead to increased performance and profitability
• positive people are generally stronger, wiser, more resilient and more socially integrated

And if ever there were a time for better decision-making, teamwork, performance, wisdom, resilience and profitability, that time is now!

Shining Our Light

So, how do we make this happen? We know that not everyone is naturally inclined toward positivism (OK, I have just “out-ed” myself…). It is true; for some of us, more than others, optimism and positivity require practice. Yet whether we are born with the capacity or not, we can learn to be happier and more optimistic and this learning curve begins with intention -- our willingness to take stock, in the moment, of any given situation and choose to see a glass half-full reality. As they say, like with plants, “where we shine the light, it grows.” We can choose to shine our light on what is working, what we can do, what is available to us, and in doing so, shift our attention toward a positive view of reality.

To be clear – I am not advocating a Pollyanna, disregard of the real human experience. What I am talking about is building a capacity and willingness to create distinctions between the events in life that cause true suffering for individuals and our own, often trifling, common workplace occurrences which throw us into hyperbolic levels of irritation. Consider…

The co-worker who talks too loudly at her desk phone
The boss who asks you to come in on the weekend to finish the project
The colleague who forgets to include you on an email string
The line item on your budget which is cut
The training you were supposed to attend which gets canceled

While none of these situations is enjoyable, neither is any cause for unnecessary belaboring about how bad things are, how awful life is or how frustrated you are. In the end, these experiences, while irritating, are simply workplace reality happening to us. Nothing more, nothing less.

In the end, it is our interpretation of reality that matters most. When we interpret situations like the above examples as “things being done to us” or perceive ourselves as “victims of circumstance,” we are bound to fall prey to negativity and subsequent negative outcomes. However, when we opt for a more positive interpretation of events, we often feel better, undergo less stress and often experience more positive outcomes.

To cultivate the shift I am suggesting requires each of us to bring our best Self to work every day – our best centered, connected, forward-looking Self -- and thereby bring with it the opportunity to positively impact those around us. We must “infect” our workplace with a radiating positivity that lifts us up, allowing optimism to prevail over the tyranny of pessimism. In such a climate, everyone enjoys greater attention, greater resilience, greater problem-solving and greater focus on what matters most in every moment.

So I put out this call to all of us today: Let’s focus on what is possible and positive and begin spreading it through our workplace. Let’s take what current studies of brain science and emotional intelligence have proven -- that positive emotions are contagious – and choose to infuse our days with generative emotions which evoke more of the same – joy, gratitude, amusement, hope, pride, inspiration. By doing so, we might not only enjoy our time here more each day, but we are bound to move this organization closer to success, step by optimistic step.

Today's Thought from Another Henry

2010-12-23T10:31:00.000-08:00

I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately, to front only the essential facts of life, and see if I could not learn what it had to teach, and not, when I came to die, discover that I had not lived. -- Thoreau

Seasonal Update

2010-10-27T11:05:00.000-07:00

We're getting ready for Halloween fun! As well, the snows have fallen on the mountain, the leaves have fallen from the trees, darkness comes early and stays late. Welcome winter!

Wallowa Wowsa!

2010-09-08T09:33:00.000-07:00

In northeast Oregon there are a set of amazing mountains and canyons called the Wallowas. Amazing long weekend marking the inaugural journey in our new Rosie! The kids and Purple Grandma were all troupers -- we camped aside the lovely river in the Lostine Canyon, enjoyed a fun morning espresso at the Blue Banana, took the steepest tram in North America to the top of Mt. Howard where we got to hike as if in the Swiss Alps, took a turn on the go-karts near Wallowa Lake, discovered Terminal Gravity IPA at the local brewery and ended up taking home a case! Many wonderful memories were made!

Blessing Atop the Peak

2010-09-08T09:01:00.000-07:00

Considerations of a more internal kind...letting go of the recent injustices at work in order to focus on the more important things in life -- like how to be the best parent I can be, how to relinquish fear in the service of true adventure, how to articulate my "professional offer" in ways that honor the past and lead me forward. I return to Strozzi in a few weeks to begin the Advanced Leadership series -- more opportunities to practice, to learn, to invite.

Yesterday Shannon and I took the day off to go high into the mountains -- Scotchman Peak was the destination. It is called "extreme" in the guide book which I found interesting, as the hike felt not so much extreme as extremely wonderful! Steep terrain brings you up 3,700 foot gain through the tree line toward a scree-topped summit where once was an old fire lookout. Once at the top, views are spectacular of the Selkirks, Cabinets and surrounding lakes -- Idaho, Montana and Canada all in sight. We were sweaty and breathing hard most of the way which felt delicious -- it had been too long since I had been "all out" in this way.

I envisioned the perfect day on this mountain to include a noble goat, as often are reputed in these areas. I am a huge fan of the mountain goat -- strong, nimble and clear-eyed. As we hiked, I kept a look out for all things wild. Saw a few new birds, some squirrels and chipmunks and gratefully, no bears. The higher we got, the fog appeared which made the whole landscape a bit ominous, a bit magical. Then, just as I rounded the last huge rock around the base of the once-standing fire lookout, there he was...majestic, regal, connected. Ah, life. It offers such possibility and so many gifts. I felt truly blessed.

Fun Kid Updates

2010-09-08T08:59:00.000-07:00

Hope and her friends...jazz hands!

Henry and his new bike -- pure joy!

Our New Baby...only 2 weeks gestation!!!

2010-07-30T10:52:00.000-07:00

Welcome Rosie!!!

A Moment

2010-07-29T10:47:00.000-07:00

Lovely moment captured by Lara

Lopez Adventuring

2010-07-29T10:38:00.000-07:00

Fabulous summer adventure to Lopez Island - just what was needed as a family getaway. We spent every day at some beach, eating some delicious bakery treat, having woken up in the gentle energies of the yurt. What a delight.

A Friendship Question

2010-07-22T13:03:00.001-07:00

Today's considerations...the dynamics of friendship between those who have children and those who are child-free. I have experienced some sensitivities of late feeling like a vast part of who I am today is either invisible to my child-free friends or consciously omitted by me as I relate to them. This omission stems from my concern that I will be perceived as "all-mom" and not "Diana," the once interesting, inquisitive individual who had the mental capacity to think beyond potty training and daycare woes and the physical capacity to stay up past 8:30pm...

And then there is my own envy -- that green-eyed monster that arises when I listen to the stories of world travels, romantic evenings and art shows...the yearning I have at times to run away from this parenting responsibility and enjoy the freedoms my child-free friends have...

Whether it is my friends for whom kids are not really their thing or my own feelings of identity inadequacy, the challenges are real...AND I am hoping they are surmountable.

One friend sent me some links she had found on the subject:
http://www.workitmom.com/bloggers/parentingwithoutamanual/?p=187
http://www.life123.com/relationships/friendship/maintaining-friendships/how-friendship-changes-after-children.shtml

Interesting of course how I had believed this was my issue alone...that I would be the only one who might suffer this relational catastrophe...oy vey

So then...how to overcome this "great divide?"

The first answer seems to be to take it in stride --"optimize reality" as I like to say. To find the spaces where my child-free friends can enjoy interacting with our kids without subjecting them to "kid overload" or even holding them hostage in their own home...(OK, so we recently spent 3 whole days/nights in the home of our dear child-free friends...)

Second is the realization that the challenges we face today raising a 2 & 4 year old will shift over time. That in time, there will be less diaper conversations, as diapers will be a thing of the past. That once regular sleep returns, I may be able to discuss the books I am reading or the recent art film I have seen...in fact I may even have completed my certification program in Somatic Coaching...So, time...patience...

Then, compassion. I realize I have gone from one who has been validated throughout my life by external achievement to now relying on more subtle measures of success (and are they even mine?) like how creative our children are or how connected they feel to a stable home environment... How to learn to be compassionate in my own valuation of myself for the acts of care and development and nurturing of our children, despite a lack of time left for pursuit of other more tangible goals...

Next gratitude. How grateful I am to even be considering this dilemma -- to have the loving friends worthy of exploring it with and the most beautiful children in the world whom I love so dearly. Would that jealousy and internal conflicts would give way to openness of heart and wonder of the amazement that surrounds us all.

And lastly, acceptance of change itself -- that friendships themselves will change over time. That experience and context will shift. I love the question at the forefront of it all: What does "friendship" mean as an adult? What is at the foundation of these connections that transcends all of the externals?

So, I am interested in hearing from others about this experience -- both from those with kids and those without. How can we create a mutually-satisfying experience on both sides? How can we serve to support and care for ourselves, each other and our friendships despite (nay, in celebration of) the individual choices we all have made...

Horsin' Around

2010-06-28T13:01:00.000-07:00

Great fun at Henry and Hope's riding lesson on Saturday. Cowboy Chris went all-out to ensure both kids had a blast! They practiced barrel racing, capturing flags and Henry even held a steady trot (while giggling heartily the whole time!)

My only concern...will our daughter really want a pony???

All Boy!

2010-06-25T08:44:00.000-07:00

Henry loves him some back hoe front loader!!!

Finally...

2010-06-22T10:13:00.000-07:00

http://health.usnews.com/health-news/family-health/brain-and-behavior/articles/2010/06/07/kids-with-lesbian-parents-do-just-fine.html

And more...
http://www.thedailybeast.com/blogs-and-stories/2010-06-21/growing-up-with-lesbian-moms-by-ry-russo-young/

Henry: "Mom, I like stay-at-home days better than school days."
Diana: "How come?"
Henry: "Because we get to cuddle more."
Diana: "Why do you like cuddling?"
Henry: "Because it makes me feel connected to you."
Diana: "Yeah, me too."

It doesn't get better than this!

The Faces of Joy (and Hope...)

2010-06-18T13:42:00.000-07:00

I get so exhausted these days as full time working mom...trying to ensure everyone's needs are met. At times, I want to run off in the middle of the night to some fancy retreat center, change my name and luxuriate for a few weeks...but oh how I would miss these little faces!!!!

A Workin' Man

2010-06-15T17:09:00.000-07:00

Henry and "Uncle" Jeff getting some things done around the house...

Check out the new gravel pit!!!

Twomommarama!

2010-06-14T17:03:00.000-07:00

What an amazing camping adventure -- many two momma families and our kids all enjoying the amazing beauty of Icicle Creek Canyon! With hope, it will become an annual tradition!

Our Own BC Fan Club

2010-06-14T16:21:00.000-07:00

Brandi Carlile is coming to the Sandpoint Festival this summer and we are getting psyched! In her honor, here are Henry, Hope and Gigi dancing to their favorite: Dreams!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e_xVyFB4vBA

True Fans!

2010-05-10T14:48:00.000-07:00

Brandi is indeed coming to the Festival at Sandpoint, August 6th!
Get your tickets!!!
http://www.brandicarlile.com/

"Dreams, I have dreams when I'm awake when I'm asleep And you, you are in my Dreams You're underneath my skin, how am I so weak And now in my dreams, I can feel the weight, I can just come clean I keep it to myself, I know what it means I can't have you, but I have dreams How long, can you hold your breath? Can you count to ten, can you let it pass? Keep, can you keep it in? Keep it behind lashes, can you make it last? And now in my dreams, I can feel the weight I can just come clean I keep it to myself, I know what it means I can't have you, but I have dreams Oh, I have dreams, I have dreams (And then an amazing guitar solo) Mind, can you read my mind? Has it come undone, am I showin' signs? And now, in my dreams I can feel the weight, I can just come clean I keep it to myself, I know what it means I can't have you, but I have dreams I have dreams, I have, I have, I have Dreams"

Life's Simple Pleasures

2010-05-03T08:55:00.000-07:00

Devouring a cupcake at his friend's Alek's birthday party.

Active Bunch

2010-05-03T08:49:00.000-07:00

Diana and friends join the thousands in the 34th annual Bloomsday race. I crossed the finish at 1:04, which was much better than I expected -- Shannon was out with a pulled calf muscle -- hopefully she will be in full recovery shortly.

Hope in her element in the "pit," the nastiest and most enjoyable foam extravaganza on earth!

Our little pirate!

2010-03-29T14:21:00.000-07:00

Favorite shot of me and Hen on the frozen lake (taken by our friend Lara). This photo reminds me of how in the front of life Henry is -- in the front of our lives -- what a love!

Spring is Upon Us

2010-03-29T14:18:00.000-07:00

Early morning family smiles

30+ years of friendship -- thanks, Lesley!

Moms get hiking!

Sweet love

What's Your Sentence?

2010-03-29T14:09:00.000-07:00

Today, my sentence reads...

"In her past, she learned to survive; and thereafter, to thrive with joy and optimism."

Cool Pic

2010-01-25T08:14:00.001-08:00

Lara's artsy photo with her new "toy camera" -- She is one cool cat!

Dear Friends

2010-01-19T12:40:00.000-08:00

We have enjoyed such wonderful visits from friends this January -- starting with the ringing in of 2010 with Cass & Lynn, followed by a double-header of football and Brandi Carlisle with Tammy & Lisa and completing the trifecta with creative and connecting time with Lara & Melissa (photos above). How fortunate we are to have such amazing friends in our lives!

It is interesting, too, to have our family "witnessed" weekend over weekend. Everyone was so generous with our whole family, enjoying our chaos, our kids, our routines. I can only imagine we look like a whirlwind of action and activity relative to their more measured days...this to say nothing of their lives, but in reflection of our own...I feel like we lack quiet, calm and rest -- someday, perhaps, this too will be present.

The Joys of Snow

2010-01-06T11:30:00.000-08:00

Winter has arrived!!!! We had our first sledding adventure down the driveway -- and Henry & Hope have been great helpers on the shoveling front!

A Bit About Henry & Hope

2010-01-06T11:28:00.000-08:00

We recently found a new babysitter for our kids -- she is a wonderful young woman, daughter of a friend. I sent her the following about H & H -- Shannon thought this was blog-worthy...

Here are a few things you may want to know about Henry and Hope:

1. Henry loves anything that is or can be used as a car/truck/ambulance/robot/sword/vehicle – he is less the “sit and do puzzles” kind of kid, though in the right mood, he can be convinced. He likes to dance, move, run around, wrestle and be tickled. He likes to have his hands on things and in things (water, cookie dough, paint).

2. Hope loves LOVE. She is a cuddle bug. She may be a little shy at first, but once she warms up, she likes to be close, sitting on laps, giving hugs, etc. Hope likes to play with anything that Henry is currently playing with – sometimes this will create a bit of turmoil…but Henry knows he has to share and it is also fine to tell Hope “No, that is Henry’s.”

3. Both kids may be a bit standoffish at first – they connect deeply with people, so new folks always require a time or two when the mommas are not around. Don’t take this personally! Toys, games, activity are great ways to “bring them in.”

4. No food allergies – both like to eat and both are hearty enough that if they choose not to eat, there are no worries.

5. Henry is now potty trained (thank goodness!) but Hope will still be in diapers (sorry.)
Both still take naps – they like warm milk pre-nap – we will bring sippy cups and things. If they refuse to sleep, no worries.

6. Both like to be read to, though Hope will wiggle around

7. We are fine with you setting appropriate boundaries and limits with both kids. They know what it means to share, be gentle and treat others with respect – if they are not doing these things, please tell them and put Henry in a “time out” if necessary. Usually this means taking the toy away or letting him be by himself for a few minutes to think about his negative behavior. We always make him apologize if he has hurt someone.

Holiday Note

2009-12-25T19:22:00.000-08:00

Many happy blessings to all of our loved ones around the globe! Life is happy on our end -- the decent into darkness now past, we are moving into the light with pleasure! Lots of visitors to come in 2010 and Mexico in February. There is much for which to be grateful.

Current considerations: Keeping our jobs, keeping up with Henry and Hope, keeping the house a semblance of clean, keeping the vision of The Selkirk Group alive, keeping learning, keeping the love of marriage as front of mind as that of parenting, keeping connected on Facebook, keeping the heart open and the mind focused...

Celebrating the 80's Way

2009-12-07T08:21:00.000-08:00

80's mayhem ensued in celebration of our friend Dave's 40th birthday. We rocked the house to "oldies," nostalgia taking firm hold of our hearts and hips -- so much fun to see people's alteregos emerge! Much hair and many gloves worn...ahhh, former fashion faux pas... This was certainly one of my more memorable moments in Sandpoint to date!

Fall Fun in Sandpoint

2009-11-30T13:31:00.000-08:00

Turkeys, aka Sandpoint traffic!

An almost-snow walk along Lake Pend Oreille with the family. Henry was playing hide-n-seek in the leafless trees and Hope was sporting some pretty cool new gloves!!!

Resiliency & Optimism

2009-11-13T09:09:00.000-08:00

Considerations on Optimism from a mentor of mine.

Resiliency

Today we are living in very challenging times. These times challenge our ability to positively cope and maintain hope. Highlighted by the recent events at Fort Hood, I have been especially concerned about the emotional well being of the members of our military, police officers, emergency/fire first responders, etc. You might have noted that the US Army announced in August that it will spend $117 million on “Emotional Resiliency Training”. Their resiliency training program is being adapted from the Positive Psychology Program at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. The program, designed to help people cope better with stressful conditions, seeks to defuse or expose common habits of thinking and flawed beliefs that may develop into anger, frustration and a tendency to assume the worst.

In thinking about the emotional intelligence underpinnings of “emotional resiliency”, I would like to highlight Optimism. Optimism carries with it an element of positive expectation towards the future…hope…a positive self-fulfilling prophecy…which fuels a positive self efficacy. Optimism is the subscale of the EQ-i that carries with it the greatest degree of correlation with all other EQ-i subscales. Optimism could be considered a master trait for comprehensive emotional well being. Additionally, Optimism has a high degree of correlation with Stress Tolerance (.76) which suggests that Optimism is a significant factor in one’s ability to cope with stress. The difference between a pessimistic versus optimistic outlook towards the stressful situations we face often involves our own thoughts, beliefs, and self talk. The problem is that our own beliefs about our situation often are faulty, and not based in fact, which often creates fear. Remember the definition of F.E.A.R : False . Evidence . Appearing . Real. Much of human potential has been robbed by faulty beliefs about what is possible fueled by fear. With the seemingly constant flow of negative news, there is a battle being waged against people’s minds…driving self defeating, pessimistic, faulty beliefs…undermining hope…which undermines human potential and capability.

I encourage each of you to join me in helping in the battle being waged against people’s minds:
Provide hope
Be an encourager
Focus on the positive
Try project happiness and cheerfulness every day…happiness/optimism gives energy to others…pessimism takes energy
Cultivate a spirit of thankfulness…learn to be thankful in your own life and express thankfulness to others

Finally…lift others up. In extremely difficult times dealing with tragedy and the loss of life like was experienced at Fort Hood, I am often at a loss for what I can do for those affected. I have found that my simply saying to someone experiencing a crisis that my thoughts and prayers are with them and meaning it…seems to give them hope and encourage them. I have tried to dedicate myself to being an encourager and someone who lifts others up. I see people every day who need encouragement and lifting up. I am certainly not worthy of doing this, but maybe that is what it is all about. We are all fellow strugglers in this life…perhaps I might lend a hand to lift another up…but I need others to lift me up. I challenge you to find someone in your sphere of influence that is downtrodden…they are often the seemingly insignificant people that our society overlooks…the waitress…the janitor…the lawn worker, etc. Find out their name, compliment them on their work…lift them up…encourage them. Besides, you will benefit from it too…research has shown that people who help others are the most self actualized.

Blessings

Rich Handley

VOTE YES on Referendum 71 in WA

2009-11-02T09:05:00.000-08:00

Pretty funny reflection by Stephen Colbert: http://www.colbertnation.com/the-colbert-report-videos/252735/october-26-2009/the-word---don-t-ask-don-t-tell

New Day, New Hair

2009-10-30T17:08:00.000-07:00

Change is in the air...and the hair...haven't had it short since moving to Idaho. Gotta let go sometime!

A great ride!

2009-10-21T11:22:00.001-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bTvJdpkdLiw

Nice work, Matt!

Active Kidlets

2009-10-20T17:04:00.000-07:00

Who knew 1 & 3 would be so active??? Here are some recent shots of kids in motion.

Funny about Living this Life

2009-10-12T13:01:00.000-07:00

Well-wriiten fun about our choices in the lifetime... http://happydays.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/09/17/the-referendum/?ref=global-home

Here is my favorite part for those who need a summary:

Most of my married friends now have children, the rewards of which appear to be exclusively intangible and, like the mysteries of some gnostic sect, incommunicable to outsiders. In fact it seems from the outside as if these people have joined a dubious cult: they claim to be much happier and more fulfilled than ever before, even though they live in conditions of appalling filth and degradation, deprived of the most basic freedoms and dignity, and owe unquestioning obedience to a capricious and demented master.

I have never even idly thought for a single passing second that it might make my life nicer to have a small, rude, incontinent person follow me around screaming and making me buy them stuff for the rest of my life. [Note to friends with children: I am referring to other people’s children, not to yours.] But there are also moments when some part of me wonders whether I am not only missing the biological boat but something I cannot even begin to imagine — an entire dimension of human experience undetectable to my senses, like a flatlander scoffing at the theoretical concept of sky.

Friendship Abounds

2009-10-05T13:17:00.000-07:00

A simply glorious reunion of friends out in Mazama this past weekend -- delights aplenty on the edible and companionship fronts. Our dear friend Lara took these amazing photos of the kids; what an artist!

Racing for a Cure

2009-09-29T09:46:00.000-07:00

Fun event in CDA -- our small way to show our support for the very dedicated efforts of many in the fight against breast cancer. H & H were troopers, riding along, taking it all in!

Challenging Times; Staying Clear

2009-09-25T11:11:00.000-07:00

There has been a lot of change going on at work for both me and Shannon -- mostly at the leadership level. While we are both still gainfully employed, the distraction and disruption of changes has just made it all the clearer to focus on the very simple, important aspects of life -- home, family, friends, the joys of children. We are everso blessed each day and so very grateful for the abundance which surrounds us.

At this time in the Jewish calendar when reflection and pause take center stage, I am awed by the power of kids to transform the heart. The delight that I experience watching Henry come up from the ground smiling ear to ear having just flown over his handle bars on his bike...the spark that ignites within me when Hope begins to giggle uncontrollably, now even before I have started to tickle her inner thigh...the amazement I experience as Hope signs a new word or in Henry's precocious, "Actually, Momma Diana, I am wondering if perhaps we should have pasta tonight for dinner"...the calm which overtakes me as I hold their pure and undistilled energy in my arms...such blessings.

At this time of atonement, as I take stock of the commitments I have made and those I have broken, I recommit my energy and spirit to my family -- to nurture and cultivate deeper connection, a refined presence, full intention. And in doing so, I ask for guidance from my best new teachers, Henry & Hope, to keep me on the path so that together we continue to flourish.

Support Equality -- Approve WA Ballot Measure 71

2009-09-25T11:09:00.000-07:00

While we here in Idaho are no where near equal rights for domestic partners, my friend Jill has articulated the need for action in WA State. To help, here is a great posting for all to read: http://jillbertini.livejournal.com/708887.html

End of Summer Fun

2009-09-15T10:50:00.000-07:00

Annual family photo -- kids are growing!!!

Hen and Shannon just waking up in the yurt

Di and kids at Iceberg Point State Park picnicking

A little bit of yurt heaven

2009-09-08T10:32:00.001-07:00

Here are some photos from our dear friend Lara when she and Melissa came to see us on Lopez -- she has an eye for the good things in life! http://www.kodakgallery.com/ShareLanding.action?c=to8bpzy.4ceezfdy&x=0&y=rof10o&localeid=en_US&cm_mmc=site_email-_-site_share-_-core-_-view_photos_button

A Farewell to Daycare

2009-09-08T08:46:00.000-07:00

Henry's first day of pre-school and Momma is a bit teary as her little one is growing up...alas, this will be a wonderful transition for Henry. Here is a farewell to his previous daycare: http://www.mirandaripley.com/2009/09/07/day-care-diaries-part-fifteen/

We are back from a week of vacation -- more on this to come. Suffice to say, we are all grateful to come home to such a lovely space, yet also longing still for the fun and friends of the past few days!

an angry day...transforming

2009-08-24T17:14:00.000-07:00

i had/am having an angry day today. admittedly, i did not get much sleep last night and what i did get was nyquil induced due to a nagging chest cold... but i feel unable to shake it and the events of the day have not helped. they are back to cutting our trees down -- despite rumors that our petition worked, the county is back at their hack job cutting our beautiful stands of aspens and firs, just in advance of their prime come fall when the colors rock my world! it is not just that they are cutting innocent and lovely trees -- it is that they are doing it terribly, leaving scarred remains and closing the road at the most inconvenient hours without any warning to the residents. i was so angry at them this morning that i took "shame" photos (see above). I sent them on to the head of roads and bridges for consideration.

at work today i encountered equally frustrating examples of people not being accountable and making excuses. this irks me more than anything. i mean, human beings are flawed and make big mistakes...but the greatest human travesty is the inability to take ownership of this and be responsible for one's own stupidity. i mean, come on! uurrrgggg.

so now I am off to home -- the kids will be sad because our friends anne and shelli have left -- they came for a too-short, but wonderful visit during which time we went on a great hike high into the cabinet mountain wilderness. henry hiked 3 of the 6 miles!!!! it was incredible -- and the huckleberries were to die for! so, yeah, not all is bad in these here parts. even just thinking about yesterday's adventure (on shannon and my first "married" anniversary) already has me a bit brighter...

24 Feet Rocked!

2009-08-18T17:28:00.000-07:00

Amazing feat (pun intended) by Team 24 Feet coming in 44th out of 75 teams! 185 miles in 28 hours, 12 minutes. What a ride it was!

Sunday Musings

2009-08-17T09:55:00.000-07:00

Sunday morning and I find myself alone in the house – it is just 8:30am and there is an unfamiliar quiet here. Shannon has taken the kids to Priest Lake to play with Poppa Buddy and Bonnie as I prepare for a late morning tai chi class and then time to myself. Such a gift this moment…I almost wasted it as I often do by busying myself in the service of others – walking the dog, cleaning the house, doing the laundry, watering the plants – but instead I take this moment to settle into words and coffee and the morning sun on the trees outside the window.

The pace of late has been just over my comfort zone, with the added complexities of a trip to Ohio for the family reunion, daycare closures, a bout of stomach flu for Henry, Hope’s new molars erupting and Shannon and I completing 198 mile relay from Spokane to Sandpoint. Where once our normal activeness had me dreary, but willing, these last few weeks have taken a toll. I feel psychically worn, which when paired with simple physical exhaustion, leaves little left. I am not a fan of complainers, so I am trying to keep this “oh woe is me” story tightly held, but it is present and influencing my interactions with life…so better to own it and then strategize around it. Today will offer me needed time for recovery – a chance to breathe a little deeper and remind myself where balance can live within this body.

I had an interesting set of existential moments during our relay race. My second leg began just after 11pm and was a 5.5 mile run along a set of country back roads on the Idaho side. As I started, the dark night sky was filled with stars and I delighted in the freedom of adventuring out into the unknown at a time when I would normally be fast asleep. At 2 miles, our van had pulled over and as I passed, they all gave me an encouraging, “You got it!” and off they drove onto the next exchange. As I watched the red taillights disappear into the distance, a disquieting feeling set in. I was alone. There were no other runners near me and a moist fog had settled into area. I had a small flashlight to guide my steps, but all I could see was the ground directly in front of me – all around was dark and obscured. Coyotes howled in the distance and dogs barked as they sensed my movement passing the end of the long driveways that led to their homes. My mind began its machinations. “Who was lurking in the trees?” “What if a dog came after me?” “Does anyone know where I am?”

I alternated between a visceral panic and a logical talking down that I had simply been watching too much CSI of late. I focused on the run itself, getting one foot in front of the other, avoiding the washboard potholes and mud puddles I was sure would cause an ankle sprain. Still, my mind raced. What of this feeling of being so alone? What of its vulnerability? What was within me that could take me the next 3.5 miles in such darkness and solitude? I drew power from within and continued on.

Finally, I arrived at the Silverwood Theme Park to meet up with the other 11 members of the team awaiting the thrill of riding The Tremors rollercoaster. It was midnight, my body and mind both exhausted, and I was escorted quickly into line so that we could board the coaster. I had been dreading this ride since we registered for the relay but had convinced myself that as a team member, it was an opportunity to put the team first and go for it. As we proceeded up the ramp, my stomach tightened and I thought I might vomit. Shannon was eager and excitable like a kid. Her encouraging “this will be great” made me both confident that all would be fine and furious at her lack of understanding of what the past 45 minutes in the woods had extolled from me. Soon I was ushered into the seat, my belt checked, safety bar lowered. There was no getting out now.

The Tremors is an old wooden rollercoaster that uses speed, darkness and right-angled turns to terrify you in place of the loop-de-loops and free-fall of the newer models. Without warning, it propels you at speeds greater than 65 mph down, around, into tunnels, up, right, left, down, up, down, up, down…finally settling you back where you started, adrenaline in full force, stomach in your throat, head a-spin. Even at my best, this would not be my choice of fun, so in the state I was in, I was pushed pretty much to my edge. During the ride, I found myself in such a state of blended panic and disbelief that I simply went inward, deeply inward. I let go in a way I rarely do, rarely am able, into full surrender. Such was the moment. It lasted only a minute or so, but it was profound. I realize now that this place of surrender is an option, should I ever choose to return to that space. It is a place of uncanny calm and resolve – a kind of freedom beyond what I am accustomed to.

While I did not intend the race to hold such interesting moments, I certainly am grateful to be living fully enough to have them, all-the-while also enjoying the fun and exhilaration the race itself offered. It was certainly an adventure; probably much like labor, within days the pain and discomforts will fade and an excitement for doing it again will emerge!

24 Feet is Off!

2009-08-13T16:29:00.000-07:00

The fun (and insanity) is about to begin!!! 12 stalwart members of Team 24 Feet are about to begin the Spokane to Sandpoint Relay -- taking us roughly 190 miles from the top of Mount Spokane, WA into our very own Sandpoint, ID. It has been pouring rain the last 24 hours, so you can imagine the anticipation we feel!!! But we have slick new shirts, A LOT of good food, 2 huge vans and some fine team spirit to lead us on!

You can track our progress here: http://www.twentyfourfeet.com/

If you want to see details of this journey, check out the S2S site: http://www.spokanetosandpoint.com/

See you on the other side!!!!!

Reunion of Families

2009-08-05T12:51:00.000-07:00

We took our gang to Ohio last week to meet members of both the extended Barnes and Cushing families. Seeing Great Grandma GG (92!) was a definite highlight, as were the many wonderful activities that Jim and Duane organized for the family. Henry and Hope had a blast, especially swinging on the big swings, learning about fireflies, and getting to swim in the hotel pool.

For those who want to see GG in action: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=brzdLd6E9z8

Save the Trees, Please!

2009-07-28T09:09:00.000-07:00

With news from around the world being as troubling as it is, it feels like slight hyperbole to "rage" against what is happening right in our own Sunnyside neighborhood...alas, trees are being removed systematically without any public hearing or community input and it is quite troubling. Here is a brief note sent today to our County Commissioners -- if anyone else wants to weigh in in support of green, here is a link to their office: http://www.co.bonner.id.us/

Good Morning,

I understand from my brief conversation with Commissioner Rich that there will be time on today’s meeting agenda for public sentiment to be shared regarding issues facing our county. While sadly I cannot be there in person due to work obligations, I would like to voice my strong opposition to the devastation which the Sunnyside neighborhood has wrought over the past week. The multitude of trees which have been systematically downed is startling. Where once a beautiful stand of aspen lined the road, bringing shade to walkers and homes to birds and other animals, there is now NOTHING. The barrenness literally brought tears to my eyes last night coming home.

Even more infuriating are the older pines which are situated on the Petersen’s property with large pink circles awaiting their demise. These trees have been on this property since the time the Petersens bought it many years ago. Due to illness and age, the Petersens themselves cannot fight to save these trees, so I am imploring you to STOP action on removing these living beings – they are not only part of the unique nature of our community, they sit in fragile waterways which house many, many species of wildlife.

Commissioners, I ask that you please take a few moments out of your day today and drive to Sunnyside Rd. See for yourselves how barren it looks and how many other trees are marked for removal. Please consider how sacred our habitat is – how vital these trees are not only to the historic beauty of the area, but to the survival of the many birds and animals that use these trees for food and shelter. Just this spring I watched for quite some time a spirited pileated woodpecker playing in the same set of aspen trees which I described above – sadly, this will never again be possible.

I understand the unique challenges you face as Commissioners trying to mediate between the needs of many different constituents. I understand at times you must make very difficult and unpopular decisions. Today, on this matter, I ask that you side with the citizens of our county, with the residents of Sunnyside, with the trees and the animals who live among us.

Thank you very much.

Celebrations a Plenty!

2009-07-20T17:40:00.000-07:00

What a fun week of celebration! 41, 1 & 3 never looked so good! The highlights included our birthday trifecta gathering on the 11th, complete with Shannon-style margaritas, awesome friends and lots of play time on the slip-n-slide! Then came watching Hope eat her first cupcake -- huge bites stuffed eagerly into her mouth -- surely she has learned to eat from watching her moms! Added wonders were Henry's first beetle in the Bug Bungalow, the whole gang, including Grandma Linda, in attendance at The Wiggles Live in Spokane and an evening swimming with the kids in their birthday suits down at City Beach.

Live feed of Hope's cupcake inhalation can be found here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_EpBIJLtphg

summertime in action

2009-07-17T16:50:00.000-07:00

So many birthday updates yet to post...alas, I did get the chance to finally play in video again. Here is our latest, "summertime": http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TA1KrS9p7Js

Potty Present

2009-07-08T08:56:00.000-07:00

41 years old today...all has started off well. I awoke to a serenading trio offering up an early morning "Happy Birthday" rendition, then opened a lovely hand-drawn card from my lovely family and a personally signed David Sedaris book. I went to walk Java and when I returned, I got the BEST birthday present of all -- Henry was jumping with joy waiting for me to see it...he had gone poop in the potty!!!! A first!!! This is a day to remember -- and of course, it tells you a lot about the things that get this gal excited now that I'm 40+!

Festive Fourth

2009-07-06T17:07:00.000-07:00

We enjoyed a festive national birthday celebration with PG, Deb and Maggie coming for a visit. We indulged in Sandpoint's finest parade with fire engines aplenty for Henry and enough troublesome righty-politics onlookers to make you gag. The evening offered an amazing gathering of more lefty-folks at a friend's BBQ and then fireworks at the beach. Sadly, Henry went quite excited but as soon as the first bang sounded, he hid his head in my shirt for the rest of the coloful, but loud display. The weekend sure had the feel of summer!

Wrestling Fun

2009-06-29T17:28:00.000-07:00

As we approach the July birthday trifecta in our household, the kids are already getting into celebration mode...here they wrestle together with their new sleeping bags from Grandpa Buddy! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ubniKCTaQ08

Thank you, Grandpa Buddy!!!

These bags will come in handy sleeping in the rented tent trailer on our upcoming trip to Yellowstone and Jackon Hole!!!! Anyone want to meet us for some fun????

Movin', Movin'!

2009-06-22T11:15:00.000-07:00

Here is our little walker... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p1MSuOlIU_Y

Weekend Wonders

2009-06-22T10:13:00.000-07:00

Awesome weekend of fun at home and at Priest Lake. Deb and Maggie came for a visit and made some amazing french bread with us...Henry got to paddle in a kayak at Dana Oxford's 43rd birthday...Hope found her "giddy-up" with all of the moving vehicles at the house. Hope is full on walking these days, so the energy in the house has been full tilt. It is great fun to watch her movement unfold. Henry continues to delight in creating new songs to sing and cooking with Momma Di.

Fun Fact

2009-06-22T07:55:00.000-07:00

Interesting FUN FACT about my upcoming birthday...

At five minutes and six seconds after 4 AM on the 8th of July this year, the time and date will be 04:05:06 07/08/09 . This will never happen again. Carpe diem!!!

Spoken Word Debut

2009-06-18T10:51:00.000-07:00

Here it is in text...how fun it was in action!

1998, they got together like it was fate
That 11 years later here we would stand
United with friends, family – let’s understand
The journey has been well earned
Every year, more growth to make
Learning from successes, freefalls and mistakes
These gals are distinctly special
Their blend of science, art and style
They’ll help you when you think you simply can’t go that very next mile
They’ll challenge when it’s warranted
They’ll hold when it seems right
They’re comfort in this world where things sometimes just don’t feel quite right

The two are intertwined in spirit and in life
But willing to expand despite predicted strife
So that their lives become both rich and true and deepen
More and more
From outside looking in, it’s hard to know what’s all in store
For they travel and they risk, they question and they act
There’s not one here among us who would challenge this known fact
We’ve got a pair here before us who in their living makes this world
A better place to raise our children, shed the anger, let hearts unfurl
They deepen our relations, embrace that which is real
Their honesty and willingness all part of their appeal

Take ‘em one by one, Lara’s art brings a new lens
Through the camera, in her painting, perspective and color blend
So to offer new ways of thinking, expand our minds, expand our hearts
A bodhisattva in the making greater than the sum of her own parts
Science blends with art, a dash erotic, come hold my hand
She’ll join you on that trip you’re taking to the promise land
She captures essence of this life, attends the nuance as well the bold
Her heart so true and real and seen, the core from which love unfolds

Melissa too a complex gal who thrives against all odds
Resilient, spin-your-head brilliant, the ideas she’ll poke and prod
Until she’s found a whole new way to consider the first main point
Her investigative questions will never disappoint
Because it shows you that she cares, that she’s listening beyond your words
Curiosity extending from global politics to birds…
This woman’s mind however sharp is only one of the key parts
Melissa is a woman who moves deeply from her heart
Metered passion more internal though it’ll show itself full blown
She’s got more integrity and empathy than anyone I’ve known

Tonight we honor passages; one of mind and one of age
Lara’s reached her 40’s and Melissa is the sage
Of Oaxacan forest products, environmental anthropology
Let’s put our hands together for Doc Poe and her PhD

Tonight we celebrate this pair equal in their power
To believe in what is possible, take action in this hour
When life feels more challenging than perhaps in times before
When “global economic downturn” threatens to knock right at the door
Here stands the answer to prosperity, of heart and soul and mind
With more of them we’d sure do better advancing humankind

Happy Birthday, Lara, Congratulations, Meliss
This is such a celebration I would never want to miss
A chance to tell you once again how proud I am, how amazed
And how I love you so very much and your brilliant, creative ways!

Kid-Lovin'!

2009-06-08T08:28:00.000-07:00

Henry, Hope and Momma Diana survived our weekend alone while Momma Shannon enjoyed some big girl time in Seattle (Happy Birthday, Tammy!!!) Our time was spent mostly outside, playing in the garden, the pool and doing art. It doesn't get much better than this!!!

Amazing Feats for Little Feets

2009-06-02T10:35:00.000-07:00

Lesson: Never underestimate the honesty or agility of either of your children!

Last night, the family was having supper and as typically happens, Henry excused himself from the table to go play in the playroom. Hope soon followed, as she always likes to keep a close eye on her big brother. Shannon and I took advantage of a little mom time telling work stories and gossiping a bit. Here is the dialogue that next transpired:

Henry, calling from the playroom: "Mom, Hope is standing up!" (a regular occasion these days!)

Diana: "That's great!"

Henry: "Hope is standing up, come see!"

Diana: "No, Hen, Momma Shannon and I are finishing our dinner."

Henry: "But come see, Di! Hope is standing!"

Diana: "Hen, when we finish our conversation, we will come."

Henry: "Come now!"

Diana: "OK, Hen, but after I see her, I am coming back to finish my dinner."

And here is where we found Hope...indeed, STANDING ON THE PIANO!!!

To hear the next Elton John/Tori Amos prodigy, see here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HjaWlSatu_A

Wonderful Grandma Moments

2009-05-29T11:17:00.000-07:00

Can't Get Enough Hope

2009-05-28T12:12:00.000-07:00

Lotsa, lotsa, lotsa Hope!

Traveling Delights

2009-05-27T17:49:00.000-07:00

We were blessed again to take our annual trip from Sandpoint to Lopez to Mazama and back this past weekend. It has become our family ritual, only each year, we seem to bring someone new along...a new kid, that is! It was a great trip for our foursome. All is well on the island and at the yurt -- the property holds such positive energy, the frogs sing as loudly as ever, the sun was shining brightly and Holly B's is still buttery and sweet! We got to take a few ventures out to the beach to throw rocks into the Sound, visited the Lopez Fire Station (twice) and did needed maintanence on the yurt. Our last night off island we visited dear friends in Mazama -- Julie, Susan, Travis and Jori -- and enjoyed the pleasures of two-mom time, a wonderful home cooked meal and an early morning bike ride (with kids!!!) to the Mazama store for early day treats! A perfect trip all around!

Helpful Mowers

2009-05-11T17:35:00.000-07:00

Both kids are in on the action helping Momma Shannon get the spring grass under control.

Happy Mother's Day!

2009-05-11T17:31:00.000-07:00

The joyful faces of those who make us moms...oh how sweet it is!

Race Day!

2009-05-04T08:16:00.001-07:00

33rd annual Bloomsday race results are IN!

Diana Gore
Finish Time: 1:13:38
Overall Place: 7,957 out of 44,490
Ran with a pace of 9:52 per mile
The average pace for 40-year-olds was 14:30

Shannon Barnes
Finish Time: 1:06:46
Overall Place: 5,002 out of 44,490
Ran with a pace of 8:56 per mile
The average pace for 41-year-olds was 14:37

Save for the crowds and the ninja moves needed to get through some narrow spaces, we all had a really great morning! Special thanks to Purple Grandma for bringing the kids out to watch and cheer us on! Kisses from Henry at mile 6 were about the sweetest delight ever!

H & H Update

2009-04-28T16:56:00.000-07:00

Update of the kiddlets for those of you who keep telling me that I'm not keeping up with the blog (mea culpa, mea culpa!) I chalk my delinquency up to busy schedules at work, spending lots of time chasing after these growing young ones and what time we do have when the sun shows up being spent outdoors -- thank goodness!

Hope, now just past 9 months continues to be a MOVER! She is active at every moment and has taken to exploring every part of the house. She LOVES climbing the stairs and with no cares, will venture up all 20 steps by herself (much to Mommas' hysteria...) She squawks like a large bird to converse and definitely understands waaaaayyyy more than she can communicate herself! She is completely taken by Java and other large dogs, has found her image in the mirror to be completely enticing and cackles with a 30-year smokers laugh when I tickle the inner thigh.

Henry continues to astound us with his verbal acuity and passion for music! His new favorite video is The Sound of Music and has me fast forward to all the "kids" parts so that he can learn the songs. He has "Do-Re-Me" down and can sing it himself, but finds "My Favorite Things" a bit disconcerting because of the thunder and lightning in the backdrop. Hen has become enamored with the guitar and we've been playing regularly since our friend Julie gave him a lesson. As spring comes, you can nearly always find Henry outside -- he loves to pretend the garden hose is a fire-fighter's hose putting out fires and he continues to love mowing the grass like Momma Shannon! He is a great companion -- still very sensitive, full of stories and creative wonder.

Kindly Visits

2009-04-28T16:46:00.000-07:00

Recent visits from friends and family have made the delay of spring all the more bearable! Thanks to all who came to ski, play with the kids, enjoy the beauty of North Idaho...we really love your presence!

Some photos just make me smile!

2009-04-03T13:40:00.000-07:00

Henry hiding in the cupboards

Henry and Miranda & their fingers

Henry & Miranda making bread

Hope dressed as a puppy & beaming!

Good Things

2009-03-31T13:05:00.000-07:00

New Discoveries:

Shannon, Henry, Hope and I all spent a few hours on Saturday at the Sandpoint Waldorf School here in town. They held a special pre-K discovery day and it was extraordinary. Their methodology was so peaceful, whole child and intentional...we played, we sang, we did movement exercises, we painted, ate carrot/spelt muffins, watched a puppet show, played outside. A big part of their philosophy is letting children explore their surroundings and bring their imagination to play -- so rather than have a "boat" in the classroom, they have a wooden structure that rocks and when a child gets in it, you can ask her, "So, what are you doing?" And she might say, "I am riding in a car" or "I am rocking in a boat" or "This is where me and my mommy are hiding while the birds sing." The child defines the moment for herself in this way...really interesting! They are also very intentional about transitions -- moving as they describe like the breath, in and then out. They mark transitions for the kids with song and verse and "prayer" of a sort (though seemingly completely non-denominational). The whole experience left me full and curious about how to bring more creativity and exploration into our home.

We also took our first family hike through the woods after work last night. Though it was snowing again this moring, we'd had lovely sun melt away most of the ground snow, leaving a path for our journey. Henry was most fascinated by the multitude of animal poop -- so many different creatures leaving their mark. He would call out, "Momma Diana, Momma Shannon, more poopies!!!" and we would come running. Hope was content watching us all from above in the backpack.

We anticpate spring with a fervor, yet are settling into the possibility of more snow on its way. April is very busy for us -- Chris, Chapel and Watson will visit this weekend; our dear from Julie will come from NYC for a few days; we are hosting our friend Stacey's birthday party at the house; a Passover seder in town; a visit with Deb Armstrong and Adelyn; hoping to get some running in so that we will survive the Bloomsday race the first weekend in May. With hope, the sun will come and we can also begin the ready the garden and begin the growing season.

Good things...all good things.

Guess Again!

2009-03-23T14:56:00.000-07:00

Name the kid...can you say strong gene pool?

Considering Love

2009-03-18T15:51:00.000-07:00

Question from Henry this morning: "Momma Diana, what is love?"

Would love to hear some of your answers...

For those interested...

2009-03-16T15:53:00.000-07:00

News of the Jaw Pain Unfolds...

Diagnosis: MRI shows Internal Joint Derangement without Reduction

The superior head of the lateral pterygoid muscle may pull the articular disk out of place when abnormal jaw mechanics place unusual stress on the joint. Abnormal jaw mechanics can be due to congenital or acquired asymmetries or to the sequelae of trauma or arthritis. If the disk remains anterior, the derangement is said to be without reduction. Restricted jaw opening (locked jaw) and pain in the ear and around the temporomandibular joint result. If at some point in the joint's excursion the disk returns to the head of the condyle, it is said to be with reduction. Derangement with reduction occurs in about 1/3 of the population at some point. All types of derangement can cause capsulitis (or synovitis), which is inflammation of the tissues surrounding the joint (eg, tendons, ligaments, connective tissue, synovium).

Mouth splint: awkward piece of acrylic that costs over $1200 which will somehow make things better (at least in 30% of cases)

Insurance Debacle: Blue Cross has specifically crafted the language of their terms so that NOTHING related to the TMJ (syndrome or joint itself) will be covered...Jesus...I have already racked up close to $4000 on this "derangement." The mysteries of the insurance companies...

Hope in Action

2009-03-09T13:55:00.000-07:00

Lil' Hope is taking to her feet! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xis-YkhFNaU

Pretty funny -- watch until the end...

International Women's Day

2009-03-09T12:16:00.000-07:00

In honor of his foremothers, Henry celebrates in style!

This Week's Wonder

2009-02-27T11:23:00.000-08:00

Henry was convinced that the sky was falling. He kept saying, "Stay up, stay up!"

Personally, I have never seen such big snow flakes!!!

Free to be Kids

2009-02-18T15:17:00.000-08:00

A fun video of our most beloved kidlets! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Sx39wivVfw

A Musing on Exhaustion

2009-02-18T15:06:00.000-08:00

So Cass and I exchanged some calls and emails recently about running, about exhaustion and the nexus of the two. She reminded me that her time is pretty open these days, which affords her a certain freedom and opportunity. This led me to consider how free and unencumbered my typical day is...alas, I am not so sure I like what I discovered...

My Daily Routine
Up at 5:00am by an little whisper in my ear, "Momma, can I cuddle?"
By 5:45am, another more eager voice (espeically eager if she has slept through the night), calls out for boob
By 6:30am, we'd all better be dressed and eating breakfast or it is proven we will be late for work
7:15am, out the door and off to daycare having fed the animals, walked the dog, picked up toys and shoveled snow (per the season)
7:45am, drop kids off at daycare and turn right around, retracing precious steps eastward toward CWC
8am: be at work-- these days some are doing seat checks
8am-5:15pm: working for da man
5:15pm drive back into town to get kids
By 6:15pm, we are home again...ready to play, make dinner, feed kids, clean up, take baths, read stories, do puzzles, play music, watch videos (on tougher nights)
By 8pm, both kids are down, a pause settles over the atmosphere, Shannon and I look at each other and don't quite know what to say..."An episode of Dexter?"
By 8:30pm, both of us have fallen asleep downstairs in our respective comfy spots
By 9pm, in bed, dreading the morning alarm once again...

It is almost crazy to articulate this so graphically. How do parents of more than 2 do it? Will it get easier as they get older or simply add more activities to the list?

Wow...no wonder we've been exhausted lately. And to say nothing of running...

Attitude Shifts

2009-02-10T14:33:00.000-08:00

So this morning, Henry and I were having a good conversation as we drove into daycare. He was frustrated that he did not get to see the garbage truck this morning, as it comes on Friday and it was only Tuesday. I was explaining to him that rather than get frustrated, he could instead choose to change his attitude about the situation and see things from a more positive perspective; he could choose to be excited that Friday was yet to come and that we would be sure to see garbage trucks in only a few days...I said, "Henry, sometimes it causes us less emotional stress when we just change our way of thinking;" to which he replied, "Just like changing my diaper, Momma Diana?" Exactly...when our thinking is shitty, just change it.

Henry Takes to the Mountain!

2009-02-09T17:57:00.000-08:00

The time has come when our young boy bravely takes on the mountain!!! He must have some Momma Shannon genes in him somewhere! Fearless, simply fearless.

A Friendly Visit

2009-01-28T11:11:00.000-08:00

Tammy and Lisa came for a visit and got to spend many hours "squeezing" the kidlets...everyone loved it! We ventured out for a snow shoe at Round Lake, drank lots of really great wine and played with our new video capability. Here is one fun look at the gang: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l8gq0LfO1MI

Oh how we love these girls!!!!

Palm Springs Quickie

2009-01-28T10:56:00.000-08:00

Di and the kids taking a swim

Henry enjoying his half-birthday cupcake

Henry helping the pilot get us home!
We had the chance to get a quick adventure to the sun and we took it!!! Thanks to my Uncle Bob who graciously lent us his house, we spent three days soaking in the desert heat and enjoying a change of pace in Palm Springs. Highlight was the Living Desert Museum which has a HUGE working electric train display as well as giraffes, hyenas and cheetahs to see!

Simple Pleasures

2009-01-22T17:40:00.000-08:00

Now

2009-01-22T17:33:00.000-08:00

Such conflicted thoughts this evening...new presidential enthusiasm mixed with sadness over friends' layoffs...ecstatic delight in watching Hope pull herself across the kitchen floor this morning coupled with new reports of the highest unemployment rates since 1982...delicious anticipation of friends from Seattle visiting this weekend paired with our company's acknowledgment that more cuts are still to come... It is a painful time; and at once, a time of celebration. This is the duality we must hold, the Buddhist teaching of both/and. This is today. This moment. Now.

"...when imagination is joined to common purpose..."

2009-01-20T17:40:00.001-08:00

It has happened -- the regime change we've been waiting for! I cried off and on all day just imaging how much change has taken place in our country in order for today to have happened...and then I cried some more for all the change which still needs to take place.

So many people are asking, "Are our expectations too high?" I keep thinking of course our expectations are too high -- that's what makes us so faulty as human beings...yet without the sense of hope and optimism that inspires such lofty expectations, where would we be otherwise? Will we be disappointed? Well, that will be our choice. For now, I am pretty darn pleased.

6 months update

2009-01-14T08:38:00.000-08:00

Hope officially turned 6 months yesterday and is off and running (literally almost!) She has mastered the "army crawl" and is fast on Henry's heels no matter where he (or his favorite toy) is. All in all, he's been pretty tolerant (ah, Sarah Palin memory...) and seems to enjoy her more now that she is active.

Tomorrow we get on an airplane south to Palm Springs for a bit of sun and relaxation.

Happy MLK weekend to everyone! May his vision continue...here is a sweet related video to mark the event: http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=4696315n

Mommas Go Techno!!!

2009-01-06T08:43:00.000-08:00

How fun -- we finally have a camera with video function that these mommas can figure out and time to play a bit with iMovie!

Here was a wonderful Sunday sledding adventure! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KATIuu9STrU

Lazy Sunday Fun

2008-12-28T18:42:00.000-08:00

Hope with her first mini-shiner (courtesy of Henry)
Our final night of Hannukah!

Snow turned to rain today, so we had a "pajama day." Highlights included a few firsts...Hope's first black eye from her brother's "one little monkey jumping on the bed" routine, Momma Diana's first attempt at turkey loaf (not too bad!), Hope's first venture out in the backpack for our 20 minute stroll around the neighborhood, Henry's first viewing of Curious George and Momma Shannon's first slush shoveling of the season. We're loving this holidays-at-home pace.

Happy Kids!

2008-12-26T13:19:00.000-08:00

Hanukkah and Christmas spent at Deb's house brought many smiles to our kids' faces! The wonder of cousins and Purple Grandma, friends, snow and presents aplenty. Life is pretty good for all of us!

Celebration!

2008-12-26T11:31:00.000-08:00

"...these are a few of my favorite things..."

2008-12-24T09:21:00.000-08:00

Today's list of things I wish to share with others:

1. The free weekly podcast of "Wait, Wait, Don't Tell Me" from NPR (has turned my day around on many occaisions!)
2. Sun Magazine - http://www.thesunmagazine.org/ -- real voices, real people
3. Emotional Intelligence -- "more important than IQ in determining success..." Would we all were focused on these native intelligences a bit more...
4. Facebook -- I know, I know...wierd for me to say...but I was converted this fall and I have had some really interesting connections with old friends rekindled...kinda neat!
5. Rouge Brutal Bitter. My accupuncturist says stay away from beer...but this one is a family favorite!
6. A clean house. May the external environment reflect the way I wish my internal landscape to be...calmer, more congruent, organized, peaceful (try that with a toddler running around!)
7. Sun in the winter air just after fresh snow. Enough said.
8. Morning cuddles in flannel sheets -- there are studies which show our hearts entrain with others when in proximity -- I feel this when our family spends the morning cuddling together.
9. Words -- I have a few friends in particular (like Cass) who use words in ways that inspire me -- curious, creative, surprising.
10. Friendship -- how it carries on through the years, transcends distances, offers new insights, provides support, encourages growth, inspires us.

Happy Holidays to all Our Friends!

2008-12-19T17:56:00.000-08:00

Firsts

2008-12-16T16:43:00.000-08:00

This past week marked a few new firsts...first big snow fall, first sup-zero temperatures of the season, and first real foods for Hope. She has moved quickly from rice cereal (too bland) to the joys of sweet potato and banana! Oh, the possibilities to come!

Henry was excited for snow, quickly donning his snow suit and heading out for fun. Hope took one look outside and decided that playtime in the exersaucer was much more her speed. We are looking forward to our first family snow shoe together sometime soon!

Bountiful Gratitude

2008-11-28T12:05:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving always brings to mind the pause needed to be grateful for all the abundance in our lives -- so much so, that sometimes it takes my breath away. For all the blessings of family, friendship, health, flannel sheets...I give thanks.

Hawaiian Days

2008-11-20T16:25:00.000-08:00

A week in Kaanapali, Maui should be on everyone's list...though I know this is certainly a stretch for many. Alas, our family had the opportunity to celebrate my dad's imminent 70th birthday in sunshine and style and surf! It was delightful. Here are a few special shots of the gang.

Refuse to Hate...indeed

2008-11-18T10:49:00.001-08:00

http://vimeo.com/2213624

First Family Rally

2008-11-17T09:09:00.000-08:00

Good Morning! On Saturday, we few of us took to the corner near the Sandpoint courthouse to rally with thousands of others across the nation in support of the right of gay and lesbian people to legally marry. The Bonner Bee covered the event and this morning, there has been some interesting response from community members who disagree with our position (and seemingly our lives). I welcome you to write in so that all sides of the issue are represented.

Here is the link: http://www.bonnercountydailybee.com/articles/2008/11/16/news/doc491fa36b4912b799920187.txt#blogcomments
To learn more about the reposnse to Prop 8, see here: http://jointheimpact.wetpaint.com/?t=anon

And spread the word!

Prop 8 = Hate

2008-11-12T14:45:00.000-08:00

So, what does it all mean for me and Shannon now that we have our marriage license but Prop 8 has passed? What does it mean for the hundreds of gay/lesbian couples who wed in the past few months, expressing vows of love and commitment to one another? Time will tell.

Today I was sent this one man's thoughts on the subject and it moved me literally to tears...(OK, so I am a little sleep-deprived)...but it moved me nonetheless: http://www.afterelton.com/blog/brianjuergens/keith-olbermann-powerful-special-comment-passing-of-proposition-8

WE DID IT!!!

2008-11-10T16:35:00.000-08:00

Henry and Hope join in the celebration!!! Election night in Hawaii -- it doesn't get much better than this!

Anticipation

2008-10-30T12:51:00.000-07:00

A friend sent me this photo recently taken at a pool party this summer, just days before Hope's arrival. It felt like a good representation of what's going on these days and what we have in store for us in the coming week:
1. We are off to HAWAII! Hopefully, I will look a little less rotund than in the photo...
2. We will be celebrating many birthdays -- my dad's 70th, my sister's 43rd and Shannon's 41st!
3. Henry's "mouth" has been prominent lately -- lots of talking, lots of singing, lots of new words and just poking through...two year molars!
4. And color...oh, Sandpoint looks beautiful this time of year! The autumn shades make me so happy.