Monday, December 27, 2010

Select your thoughts like you select an iTunes playlist...


CAPES [something empowering] You select your thoughts like you select an iTunes playlist - weeding out the bad ones from the good ones. Remember: you are in control.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] I got this umbrella for Christmas. Now I'm outside just waiting for it to rain.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] This past year, I did not leave the country once (surprisingly, the south doesn't count). In 2011, I have some making up to do...Africa and Europe, look out!

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Don't drive everything. Gas is expensive.


CAPES [something empowering] "I'm not pushing this, I'm just driving it"...a quote said by my sweet mother the other day regarding all the VP family Christmas plans that she was organizing. I've definitely inherited the "planning" gene...which made me think about all the things that I "drive". Choose wisely, don't drive everything. Gas is expensive.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] I love watches because I like being able to know what time it is at any given moment, but also because they can be colorful and stylish. Here is a watch that is unique as well as "green" - it's made from bamboo! If I was a guy, I would totally buy this men's watch.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Is it me getting older, or are the Folgers commercials really that emotional? I get teary-eyed every time when I watch "Peter comes home" commercials - like the current one, or the one from the 80s.

Sunday, December 19, 2010

"If it's not either of us, tell me who are we fooling?" (Brooke Fraser)


CAPES [something empowering] Learn the art of holding your tongue. And that's all I have to say about that.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] I am really loving the new Brooke Fraser album, featuring Aqualung and William Fitzsimmons.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] For my 29th birthday, I asked for another niece or nephew. And come April of this year, I'm getting my wish! Cooper will be a big brother to the newest baby boy of the fabulous VP family. Congrats to my brother and sister-in-law!!

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

"Anything that's not growing is dead." (Lauryn Hill)


CAPES [something empowering] העם ההלכים בחושך ראו אור גדול The people that were walking in darkness had seen a great light.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] I have the circulation of a 90-year-old woman. To get the blood flowing, I've taken to eating 1-2 pieces of candied ginger per day. Not only does it help your circulation (source), but it also freshens your breath.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Keep your vitamins in a place where you'll remember to take them everyday. I have them next to my ground espresso.

Sunday, December 5, 2010

"You must always know how long to stay and when to go..." (Patty Griffin)


CAPES [something empowering] I'm no over-achiever and I'm no under-achiever. I'm just an achiever.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] I got these stockings as stocking stuffers for my brothers, only to find out they would never wear them. So, I guess that means two new pairs of Holland Happy Socks for me, yes!

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Find a balance between the reality/expectation split-screen* of your life. Keep expecting, while staying grounded in reality.

*ignore jonathan kim's review at the end of the clip

Monday, November 29, 2010

post-thanksgiving lull


CAPES [something empowering] If forgiving someone was easy, and they deserved it, than it wouldn't be such a big deal. It's not easy, and most often they don't deserve it. Forgiveness is a gift for both parties.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] This might take you back to yesteryear, but I've found myself singing it around the house. Yea, I've got it bad (so hide your kids, hide your wife).

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] My fridge has seen better days. The post-thanksgiving lull has hit, which means all the leftovers are gone and I'm left with a fridge full of condiments and liquids. What kind of breakfast can one make with dressing, relish, jam, and chocolate milk?

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Never underestimate the satisfaction of doing nothing.


CAPES [something empowering] You can't steer a parked car. If you're waiting for something to happen, start the engine and back out of the driveway and get yourself on the road.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] I'm putting some major miles in this week, and I'm not talking about my car. When the snow hit, I dug out my YaxTrax. While my front-wheel drive car handles poorly in icy/snowy conditions, I can run around town without a problem.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Yesterday was the first day in a long time that I had nothing to do. I didn't have to be anywhere (internship and school cancelled due to ice and snow). Though I had papers to write and books to read, I did nothing. Never underestimate the satisfaction of doing nothing. I think I felt more accomplished doing nothing than when I spend a day checking things off a long list.

Monday, November 22, 2010

I Kissed Christian Dating Goodbye


CAPES [something empowering] Don't just say you're thankful for it, be thankful for it.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] My new favorite nail color: Whitney, by Julep. It's the cheaper version of the Chanel color, and a mushroomy-gray neutral that goes with most skin types.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] My friend recently wrote a great article on the woes of Christian dating. It will make for a great chapter in the book a few of us are putting together - I Kissed Christian Dating Goodbye. A soon-to-be a bestseller, the book will include epic tales of dating encounters that will leave you wondering why the authors haven't given up already, as well as bonus chapters on: 1) the do's/don'ts of online dating, 2) the tale-tell signs that the relationship isn't going anywhere (i.e. the everlasting textual relationship), and 3) a mock-interview from the well-known author, Joshua Harris. Lastly, a glossary at the end of the book will provide helpful dating terms and acronyms (some to be used, and others to be avoided).

Saturday, November 13, 2010

Annie, are you okay?


CAPES [something empowering] Sometimes you have to say no, and sometimes you have to say yes. And yes, I had to buy that orange jacket. And no, I didn't buy the other blue jacket that I also liked.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] I recently bought a jacket from Holden Outerwear, a company from Portland, OR. Not only is their stuff fashionable and functional, their flash website allows you to see their outerwear on walking-around-mobile-models.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] I recently googled "songs with the name annie" and came across a forum asking "what's with all the songs with the name 'annie' in them?". I knew it wasn't just me that noticed! Check out the well-known songs that feature my name: Michael Jackson's Smooth Criminal (Annie, are you okay?), Ben Fold's Annie Waits, Mat Kearney's Annie, James Blunt's Annie, John Denver's Annie's Song, and Heart's Dreamboat Annie. And here's a few not-as-well-known: Mt. Desolation's Annie Ford, Left Hand Smoke's Annie, Elefant's Annie, Guillemot's Annie, Let's Not Wait, and Safety Suit's Annie.

Monday, November 8, 2010

I prefer mashed.


CAPES [something empowering] Being scared of something just because it's different is your problem. Fear is disabling, so don't let it win.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] The next best thing since Girl Talk...Norwegian Recycling. Mash-up brilliance.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] There's nothing worse than a joke that isn't funny. Oh wait, actually, there is - when you're the one who told the joke only to later realize your mistake in doing so. In past blogs, I have joked around about getting away with things when it comes to the law. In all seriousness, the law is not a joking matter. I appreciate those who serve our cities, and my "jokes" dishonor them. Forgive me.

Monday, October 25, 2010

"The morning wears a veil of rain, above the city I live in..."


CAPES [something empowering] I have been using "airplane mode" often on my phone. If I'm reading, having coffee with a friend, or in class...it's a great way to not be distracted or tempted to check who's called/texted/emailed me. Because during most situations, those things can wait.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] A Keane side-project made into awesome: Mt. Desolation.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Did you know that if you keep the first and last letters the same, your brain will automatically unscramble words? Check it out: You rlealy souhld cechk out Mt. Dsoetiaon bcaeuse teyh wree aewomse lsat nghit.

Saturday, October 16, 2010

I'm on a horse...cow.


CAPES [something empowering] Even when I know I'm right, I've learned (the rather hard lesson) to allow for the possibility that I could be wrong. A little humility can go a long way.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] To brush up on all the history I don't know and/or have forgotten, I recently purchased a used high school edition World History book. Let the [re]learning begin.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Grover doesn't look as good with his shirt off, but this video is definitely worth a watch.

Monday, October 11, 2010

ready to run.


CAPES [something empowering] If you decide to run, make sure you're running to something and not away from something.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Here's a new use for old sweaters (or sweet sweaters you find at value village) - cut off the sleeves and use them as leg warmers underneath tall boots.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Sometimes I wish my dad was an inventor so that he could make a machine that would accidently shrink me super small. That way, I could get lost in my backyard, slide down a blade of grass, and sleep in a blue lego.

Monday, October 4, 2010

Maybe your happy ending is moving on.

The following blog is dedicated to CJG, a dear friend, who in her decision to hold on to hope has inspired me to do the same.

CAPES [something empowering] "Maybe your happy ending is moving on..." - happy endings don't have to be magical, but they always have a foundation of hope.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Homemade tomato soup - canned fire-roasted tomatoes (pureed in blender), chopped onion, a dollop of milk, white pepper and red pepper flakes AND only 10 minutes to make: can't beat that.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] In case you missed it this year, and in case you missed it last year. Bow down.

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

When nature attacks.


CAPES [something empowering] A friend of mine has been known to give the following advice: "If you wait until the last minute, it only takes a minute". I love this motto, especially when writing theology papers (am I joking?).

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Milk in glass containers...it just tastes better.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Imagine this: you're sleeping soundly and suddenly feel a stinging sensation on your foot. You think it might have been a dream, but the stinging doesn't go away. You get up, throw the sheets back only to find a bumblebee. It's 4am, so you kill it and go back to sleep. Normally, nature attacks me when I step into its territory. Now that it has invaded mine, it's on.

Sunday, September 26, 2010

Encounters at Dick's Drive-In


CAPES [something empowering] A conversation I had with a random guy at 2am this past weekend at Dick's Drive-In:
Guy: If you show them your ASB card you can get a discount.
Me: I don't have one...I've been out of high school for a while.
[pause]
Guy: Uh, I'm not in high school either.
Me: Oh yea, how old are you?
Guy: Guess.
Me: 22?
Guy: Nope, 26.
[pause]
Guy: How old are you?
Me: Guess.
Guy: 31?
Me: Well that confirms it.
Guy: Confirms what?
Me: That you are what you eat.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Belts as bracelets. You saw it here first.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] I write a lot of draft emails. When I'm frustrated, upset, or hating on someone - I write them an email. However, I never send this email. Instead, I let it hang out in my "drafts" for as long as it takes me to get over whatever is ailing me. Sometimes it gets to the point where I need to either: 1) confront them or 2) delete the email and get over it already. But, knowing that the email is there and ready to send with the click of a button somehow helps me sleep at night. *Important: when drafting these emails, do not type in the "send to" email address. Omitting this will help avoid accidental sends.

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Head full of doubt, road full of promise.


CAPES [something empowering] It's Husky season, and I made a new cape to wear to the games. It comes with a matching eye mask. Lucky for me, the guy I attend the games with isn't ashamed to sit with me. Go Dawgs!

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Football season and my life in general have led me to the point of being absolutely and uncontrollably addicted to the song Head Full of Doubt, Road Full of Promise..."and I'm frightened by those that don't see it."

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] I would like to officially file a complaint with the following in regards to football: the two positions "kicker" and "punter". My problem stems from the fact that more often than not, these positions are played by soccer players that put on football uniforms...making them impostors on the football scene. Though punting and kicking are crucial to the game, and special teams plays are totally exciting, I can't get beyond the fact that punters/kickers are scrawny non-football players. Anyone else with me here?

Sunday, September 19, 2010

Trust a little, break a little, heal a little more.


CAPES [something empowering] It's much easier to be on the verge of something than to actually do it. Don't give up and just do it.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Guess what's coming to Bellevue? Cupcake Royale. Hello Red Velvet-y goodness, welcome to the neighborhood.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] The only way to heal is to trust. However, trust will most likely involve risk since there are no guarantees in the business of trusting. So, if you break a little, that's okay...consider it a step in the cycle of healing. Trust a little, break a little, heal a little more.

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

"It's fine that you look like that...it's genuine...you could use genuine."


CAPES [something empowering] She decided to start living the life she'd imagined. (Source)

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Labels are nice, but as soon as you place them on yourself or others, it turns into discrimination. So, say "yes" label-line denim, and "no" to the kind that makes you a judge.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] A "shoulding" mentality is messy and makes me crazy: "I should do this, I should do that..." Either do it or don't do it and stop shoulding all over the place.

Monday, September 6, 2010

A crisis combines danger and opportunity.


CAPES [something empowering] We never figure ourselves out on our own. We need others for that discovery.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] This is the first year since 1994 that I have not attended a Dave Matthews Concert. With the money saved, I will be attending Ray LaMontagne/David Gray, Mumford & Sons, Ben Gibbard, and a few other gems. Yea, I know that doesn't exactly add up budget-wise...I'm no business-woman.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] The Chinese character for "crisis" combines the characters "danger" and "opportunity". Though your crisis might seen traumatic, keep in mind the opportunities that can arise from its danger.

Thursday, September 2, 2010

Love is not blind - it sees more, not less. But because it sees more, it is willing to see less. (Rabbi Julius Gordon)


CAPES [something empowering] In person-to-person relationships, there is no such thing as perfect love. We all come in with our own agendas. But in setting aside our agendas and seeing the "more" in a person, it is then that love allows us to see "less".

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Victors Coffeehouse in Redmond makes studying a tad more enjoyable: short, 2%, 1 teaspoon chocolate, 1 teaspoon caramel, and topped with their homemade chocolate whipped cream. Yum.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] There's a difference between being cynical and realistic. Learn to master the difference. Because realistically, a cynic is harder to get along with.

Monday, August 30, 2010

never is a promise and I never need a lie.


CAPES [something empowering] Be careful what you promise. Promises are remembered, cherished, and believed. So before you throw out an "I promise you...", be prepared to back it up.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Winter, Spring, Summer, FOOTBALL. Husky Football season launches this Saturday. The bro and I have season tickets. I bleed purple and gold.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Sometimes you have to wait for things. I am the kind of girl that can see the outcome of something, and rapidly make it happen. I am used to getting what I want. However, this is not healthy and the rapid pace messes more things up than it does make them work out. To have the patience to wait something out and go at a normal pace takes stamina and will power, but from what I've seen it's worth it in the long run.

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

oh crap...and life makes no sense yet again.

CAPES [something empowering] If life made sense every day of every week, how boring would that be? Right? Think about it. The hiccups in life keep you going...not the sense-making.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Gilly Hicks underwear sale...and it's no secret that they are better than Victoria's.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] This weekend my good friend is getting married. It has been said that when you find the one that you've been waiting for, you've reached your "finish line"...meaning that when you've found them, you've arrived. But I believe with all my heart that this is no finish line, but a starting line to some kind of wonderful. Congrats to my good friend, you're fast approaching your finish line to singlehood and starting line to a shared life of love, honor and respect as a Butler.

Sunday, August 22, 2010

"God loves her more than the Christians do." (Bloodline, Matt Morris)

CAPES [something empowering] Compliments are nice. They may even build your self-esteem a bit. But flattery can only take you so far. Being secure in yourself is far more important than relying on others to build you up.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] This summer, I have mastered my own breakfast of champions: 1/2 c tangerine juice, 1/2 c cranberry juice, 2 heaping tablespoons of plain yogurt, 1/2 c frozen mango, and 1/2 cup frozen raspberries. Smoothie-licious.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] While running the other day, I got attacked by invisible bugs. I describe them as "invisible" because I never saw them bite me...but when I got home, I had bite marks all over my body. The crazy thing about these invisible bugs is that their bites disappeared about 1 hour later. And no, I'm not on drugs. But I am high on life.

Sunday, August 15, 2010

Change can be so constant, you don't even feel the difference until there is one (Life as a House).


CAPES [something empowering] Change sneaks up on you. Sometimes, it's so sneaky, that when the change you've been waiting for never arrives, a better change comes along to take its place. I embrace that kind of sneakery.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] The picture says it all.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Emerald Downs has races every weekend this month. Who wants to go and reenact the scene from Good Will Hunting?

Wednesday, August 11, 2010

Time will tell you, baby, what you can't hear now (Patty Griffin).


CAPES [something empowering] My mom always says that faith is believing in advance what only make sense in reverse. She's a smart woman. I believe the same can be said about time. To try to make sense of your current situation in present time is hard to do. But when looking back on it in the future, one can usually see what you couldn't in the present. So stop thinking about tomorrow. Thinking about tomorrow won't change how you feel today. But tomorrow, you might feel differently about today.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Not only is orange the color of insanity, it is also the color of freedom, as well as the color of my new watch.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] This fall will bring many amazing concerts: Ray and David, Ben, Sufjan...people better stop coming to town, or else my pockets will be empty.

Thursday, August 5, 2010

the "WILL NOT" comes before the "WILL"


CAPES [something empowering] Sometimes you have to say the things you WILL NOT be before you can figure out the things you WILL be...I will not manipulate, I will not be controlling, I will not be self-conscious, I will not be needy, I will not be selfish....I will be myself, I will be sacrificial, I will be flexible, I will be honest, I will be vulnerable, I will be confident.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] I've noticed a trend in my verbal behavior: I speak in more movie quotes per day than the average person. "Nobody puts baby in a corner", "We can't, we're being hunted", "My dog is winning!", "Can I be your date?", "Look at me! Look at me!", "So you're the one?", "Sorry, I had to go see about a girl", "All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us"...and the problem is, most of the time, the only one that understands what I'm talking about is me.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] I'm a planner. I love to make plans and then look forward to them. For example, I can't get through a week without already knowing: 1) where I'm gonna go, 2) who I'm gonna see, and 3) what I'm gonna do for the weekend. While I embrace the ring leader in me, this week I'm trying for a touch of spontaneity. It's Thursday, and I have no plans for the weekend and will attempt to let myself happen into fun instead of coordinating it. And if this fails me, I'll just walk down to Palmers karaoke bar (crap...did I just plan that?).

Monday, August 2, 2010

"you must know life to see decay" (M&S)

CAPES [something empowering] I like to think that I was the forerunner for this event. My route was 28 miles. Looks like they figured it out how to trim it to 26.2. Good for you, crew.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Pull-up negatives. I kinda love them.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] After listening to the song "After the Storm" on repeat for the past few days, I've been hung up on the difference between "life" and "decay". For example, why is it that someone can compliment your new haircut, but as soon as a strand of hair is found unattached to your head, it's deemed disgusting? Or fingernails - they can be cute and painted, but as soon as you trim them, their clippings are totally gross. With concrete matter, we shriek away from decay. But abstractly speaking, I think I welcome it more than I should. For example, there are areas in life that I ignore and let decay. Like gross fingernails, I tend to steer clear of the areas that are rotten instead of placing them in the trash where they belong. The trick is to not let death win. "You must know life to see decay."

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

If I knew then what I know now...

CAPES [something empowering] There's a reason we don't know what's going to happen next. If we knew things in advance, we probably wouldn't believe them anyway.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Thanks Stal for my new favorite expressions: "all boo'd up" and "gangster love".

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] I wish I could go back in time and have a chat with my 7th-grade-13-year-old awkward self. If I could, this is what I would tell her: Annie, you have a crush on a Senior who you will meet again when you're 29 outside a Starbucks. But this time, you won't be chasing him. You actually won't be interested at all. Oh how the tables have turned. 13-year old Annie would never believe me.

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

quality asterisk girls

CAPES [something empowering] Never be too old to learn a new trick. And never be too independent that you can't afford asking for help. The girls and I learned to grill this weekend. Though it took phone calls to our fathers and other macho men, a few hours and an entire bottle of lighter fluid later, we had ourselves some bbq'd salmon (okay, okay...so maybe it was more smoked than bbq'd).

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] This should never be confused with an addiction, but a trend that comes and goes actually has a name: date-weight. Who knew?

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] The other day, of few of us heard a compliment from a mutual friend. He called us "quality girls". Instead of taking this as a compliment, I decided to amend his statement. "Quality" sounded so boring and ordinary. And even though he meant it as a compliment, it just wouldn't do. I decided that we are not just "quality girls", but we are "quality* girls", and the asterisk makes the "quality" more mysterious and less boring. Be a quality-asterisk girl. Never boring, always fun.

Thursday, July 15, 2010

Be ruthless, but not lethal.

CAPES [something empowering] Competitiveness is healthy as long as it's not tearing down your opponent - physically or emotionally. So, proceed with caution: be ruthless, but not lethal.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] With the World Cup now over (and no, I don't want to talk about it), my schedule is wide open. What's a girl supposed to do with no 4am games? Solution: I'm gonna start following a few club teams, as well as hang out with my nephew more. I'm kinda in love with him, and it just so happens that his mom is my bestie. Here's the latest video that made me feel better this past dark and not-so-orange Sunday.



THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] I have a drinking problem. Every time I take a swig from my SIGG, the post-sip-flick-of-my-wrist results in water splashing through the tiny opening and onto my face. Can anyone help me? Please advise.

Monday, July 12, 2010

a pescatarian no more.


CAPES [something empowering] If someone is pushing your buttons to get you to react, be the bigger person: don't let it get to you and don't react. Playing into those games will more often than not lead nowhere. And by the off chance that they do lead somewhere, it's probably not where you want to be.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] After 15 years without hot dogs, I'm back in a major way. Cream cheese, grilled onions and bbq sauce. My oh my.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Here's something new under the sun: along with applying a good layer of sunscreen, you can also protect your skin internally by increasing the amount of antioxidants in your diet. So before you hit the beach, eat some dark berries and down a cup of coffee.

Thursday, July 8, 2010

white blank page

CAPES [something empowering] Don't expect to know everything before you take the plunge. I can't begin to understand the inner workings of my car, but that doesn't keep me from behind the wheel.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] I've been stuck on this song the past week...especially the words "you desired my attention but denied my affections". And I'm not gonna lie, I've been that girl before...the one that just wants everyone's attention. But looking back, I see how hurtful it is. Choose to start a new trend: not seeking attention. When attention is given, receive it, but don't go looking for it.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Holland in the Word Cup Final. Enough said.

Wednesday, June 30, 2010

The unveiling.


CAPES [something empowering] When I got my tattoo done, before the artist began, he asked me if I was sure it was what I wanted. My friend commented, "Does she look like the kind of person that doesn't know what she wants?" It got me to thinking about decisions. When I make a decision about something, I stick with it. Whether it be a drink order, meal order, or tattoo, go into it with confidence. No one likes the girl that gets to the front of the line at Starbucks and still can't make up her mind.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Ink is addicting. Beware. My latest says "oranje is de kleur van gekte" which means "orange is the color of insanity", a quote from Vincent Van Gogh, which is also featured in this Nike ad.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] I have developed a theory about hybrid bicycle riders...they are cyclists that can't make up their mind between two good things, so settle for something in the middle and think it's awesome when it's not. Shame on them. Stay away.

Sunday, June 20, 2010

Sometimes I can hear my bones straining under the weight of all the lives I'm not living...


CAPES [something empowering] "You cannot protect yourself from sadness without protecting yourself from happiness." (JSF)

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Like the picture says: guess.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Two of my favorite authors met and got married. Go figure. [Johnathan Safran Foer and Nicole Krauss]

Thursday, June 10, 2010

The greatest barrier to success is the fear of failure.


CAPES [something empowering] Holland will win World Cup. I will profess this until it happens, not because I'm overly optimistic, but because I'm not afraid to fail.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] The George and Dragon (World Cup headquarters) at 4am. It's mine.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Everyone has a routine that they follow at some point in their day. You don't get into the shower and don't know what to do...shampoo goes first, then conditioner, etc. However, when you're sleep deprived, routine is thrown out the window. Yesterday morning, I woke up after a few winks, hopped in the shower with socks still on. Then I proceeded to stand there not knowing what to do. A melt down. "What usually goes down in here? What am I doing here in the first place?" I thought. Eventually, I remembered my routine and proceeded. Weird morning.

Tuesday, June 8, 2010

To wish you were someone else is to waste the person you are.

CAPES [something empowering] There is nothing wrong with wanting to better yourself, or change your habits. But don't try to be someone else. Let them be them, and you be you. Wanting to be something you're not is a disservice to yourself.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Okay, so this isn't really an addiction or trend, but hear me out...Do your socks ever fall down when you're wearing high boots? Try wearing cycling socks. When you get to the end of the day and realize you haven't hiked them up once, you can thank me.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Today, I received a compliment that I still have no words to describe. After looking at my brown-bag dinner for grad class, which happened to be compartmentalized into 4 separate tupperwares with chopstix utensils, a friend commented: "I've never met a girl who is so high maintenance yet so cool."

Wednesday, June 2, 2010

Jealousy works the opposite way you want it to.

CAPES [something empowering] Jealousy is most often internalized, but definitely has its way of working itself to the exterior, and it never looks good. The same goes for bitterness, hatred, and low self-esteem. Think about it.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] I visited the neighborhood hot yoga studio today...it had been a while, but a humid 105 degree room felt great on a rainy day. If June keeps this weather up, I can see myself becoming a regular [yet again].

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Picture yourself in a coffee shop where you witness the following: A man abruptly enters the shop and loudly pleads for someone to call the doctor. This is clearly an emergency. So the barista asks "Are you sure you need a doctor?", and after a short conversation, she reluctantly calls 911. Then the man sits down. Alone. No one talks to him. No one assures him that the ambulance is on its way. He waits segregated and ignored. Now picture that the man is homeless. Just that justify the actions of everyone in the coffee shop (including my own)?

Wednesday, May 26, 2010

"Hope is a good thing. It may be the best of things. And no good thing ever dies." [Shawshank Redemption]



CAPES [something empowering] "The truth is...there can be no hope except when the temptation to despair exists. Hope is the act by which this temptation is actively and victoriously overcome." [Gabriel Marcel]

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Orange will be my color starting June 14. And yes, it is no coincidence that the date corresponds with Holland's first game of the 2010 World Cup. The Dutch are due. Hup, Holland, Hup!

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] I've always been one to have high hopes...for people (even those that treat me badly), for UW football (even when they play so poorly), and for impossible situations. But hope does not call for unnecessary optimism. Whereas optimism is ignorant of reality, hope is realistic and stares shaky situations in the face and always sees possibility.

Monday, May 17, 2010

"you think you can do these things, but you can't..."


CAPES [something empowering] It's important to dream big, but equally important to stay grounded. To balance your dreams with the ground, you must know your limitations. For example, I've been growing my hair out for over a year, and recently realized that I cannot have the luscious locks I've been trying for. So, I put on my cape and got a haircut.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] What's cooler than the white witch? A white watch. Trendy has met its match. *If you look closey at the picture, you can see the toe of last post's COFFEE.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] My mom should write a blog. She speaks so much wisdom, as well as boldly proclaims made-up words. Here are her top two favorites: toodle (as in, I'm gonna toodle around the store) and whole 'nother (as in that's a whole 'nother story).

Wednesday, May 12, 2010

The Cass Collection



CAPES [something empowering] My family and roomie took a trip to the zoo. They thought it would be a good idea to go to the raptor show (otherwise known as "birds with talons" show), thinking it might help me face my fear of birds (owls in general). I did okay with Hawk #1. Hawk #2 was huge, and I put on my hood for protection. Falcon #1 flew over my head, so I closed my eyes. And when they brought out The Owl, I ran away as fast as I could. Empowering thought of the day: trust your instincts.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] BIG NEWS: the sequel to my favorite book - Mourning Becomes Cassandra - is about to be released! The author comes to us from our very own eastside: Christina Dudley is a fabulous and lovely lady, and her writing style/storyline will draw you in and keep you there until the last page. I read the first book in one sitting, and I fully expect the same out of the sequel - The Littlest Doubts - coming soon to Amazon and a book club near you. I have seven spots on my bookshelf reserved for the Cass Collection...so keep 'em coming, Christina!

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] I just bought the metallic version of topsiders to add to my shoe collection and am seriously wondering what is preventing me from spray painting the majority of my shoes in metallic colors. Bling bling, here I come!

Tuesday, May 4, 2010

And the day came when the risk it took to remain tightly closed in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to bloom... Anaïs Nin


CAPES [something empowering] You have the power to recreate yourself.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Encaustic art: I'm hooked and can't keep away from the wax...but I really need a blow torch. Anyone have one that I can have/borrow?

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Break ups are like side aches. They hurt really bad for a while, but they always go away.

*artwork shown is by my favorite encaustic artist: Wendy Franklund Miller

Friday, April 30, 2010

You can't interrupt a multi-tasker.

CAPES [something empowering] Are you an interruptible person? Don't take yourself so seriously. Learn to be interruptible or you might miss out on something more important than yourself. That, or learn how to be an incredible multi-tasker.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Almost more than running into Dave himself, I love running into songs that I haven't heard it a while, especially songs I had forgotten I loved so much! The Idea Of You is that song for me today. Loving Wings was that for me yesterday (and I was in the audience for this recording...and yes, I did cry the first time I heard it).

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] This week, I finally received my upgrade for my iPhone. Instead of waiting in long, frustrating lines at AT&T, I decided to try out Radioshack. Radioshack took good care of me, as well as gave me $170 for my old iPhone. Radioshack, where have you been all my life? Thank you for the cash...and yea, I already spent it.

Saturday, April 24, 2010

three years with emily.


CAPES [something empowering] i'm not patient enough to appreciate patience. but that's not how patience works. patience isn't about whether or not you like it. in fact, patience isn't about you at all. it's outside of who you are and what you think you want. patience looms and will stare you in the face until you're brave enough to stare back at it, and then walk with it for a mile or two (or three...or four...).

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] I love these posters. I want the heart and brain ones, but just recently got the screenprint of seattle in blue.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] three years ago today, I met emily. every day, I love her more. she is the bestest roommate. ever. even though it's only been three years, we live like an old married couple as we both have funny quirks and odd living habits [but though I liken us to an old married couple, let the record show we both still prefer boys].

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

out with the old.

CAPES [something empowering] I refer to "the old annie" often. Sometimes in conversation, but mostly to myself saying: "the old annie would have done this, but the new annie isn't going to do that." I believe in re-inventing myself with the start of each day. All my yesterdays are filled with the old annies, all my todays are filled with the new annie's that will tomorrow be the old annie's. Learn from your mistakes and start afresh each day with the new you that's learned from the yesterdays of the old you.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Lately, I've been making a lot of thai curry. It's not complicated. If you've got corriander, cumin, coconut cream, red curry paste, sugar, basil, peanuts, fish sauce and some kind of meat, you're good to go. If you want the recipe, I can give it to you. Super easy, super fast, super delicious.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] I listen to a John Mayer Pandora Radio station while I'm at work, only because it plays more Dave than it does John. Does anyone else find that odd?

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

cold turkey.

CAPES [something empowering] The best way to kick a bad habit is to quit cold turkey. Don't look back. Don't ease yourself out of it. Just stop it already. My friend and I recently gave up something...to remain nameless, of course...but we quit cold turkey and aren't looking back. Go us!

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Update on jeggings: I still want them.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] As an amendment to the "CAPES" section, I think it is worth mentioning that its wisdom should be applied only to harmful things, such as smoking, drugs, keeping bad company, picking your nose, destructive behavior, gossipping, unhealthy relationships, etc. [you get the point]. However, it should not be applied to things where moderation is the key - like eating cookies. You should never quit that. Just remember: everything in moderation [including moderation].

Friday, April 9, 2010

Never underestimate the tragedy of chapped lips.


CAPES [something empowering] Ladies, listen up. We have an obligation here. I call it the "Girl Alliance". Basically, it's throwing female competitiveness out the window, and looking out for each other. Among other inappropriate and un-post-able comments, the following was overheard at a coffee shop the other day: some guy says to cute girl, "The hot dog in my pants is on spring clearance." She needs a hero, and by all means it's not him. If you want to be a member of the Girl Alliance, part of that means saying to the girl: "Honey, get out. Now." Let's do this. Join me.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] I recently cleaned out my chapstick/lipgloss drawer. And by "cleaned out" I mean organized. My findings: around 40 different tubes of various sticks and glosses. I could probably go the rest of my life without needing to purchase a new tube...and yet...

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] The other day I was at a pub. A woman walked in wearing the following: REI khaki pants that have the zipper option to convert into shorts paired with cute heels. I'm not judging her, but why? Why that combo? Maybe the Girl Alliance should address this issue as well.

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

i love making the wrong decisions


CAPES [something empowering] Sometimes the hardest thing and the right thing are the same.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] In "An Affair to Remember", Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr drink pink champagne. I'm determined to figure out what that is exactly, and drink some myself. I submit that anything with a hint of pink is bound to taste better. Cheers!

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Sometimes you make the wrong decisions. Sometimes those wrong decisions are made over and over again for a length of time. And sometimes it takes a while for them to set in before you realize that you are not where you want to be. Learn. Grow. Move forward. Making incorrect decisions is part of life. We all make them. It's inevitable. And it's decisions - whether right or wrong - that shape who we are. But if you're like me, more often than not, learning from the wrong decisions end up being most beneficial.

Wednesday, March 31, 2010

you'd have to be dutch to understand...


CAPES [something empowering] Stop complaining and do something about it. I like to act on things, not dwell on them. Is that bad?

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Chatroulette: While I don't recommend this creepster site, I do recommend watching out for the Ben Folds impersonator. While visiting the south, I attended a Ben Folds show where Ben impersonated his impersonator. Awesome.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] The picture is the tattoo my brothers and I are getting, probably this weekend. I can't decide where - foot (not to be confused with ankle), wrist, or ribcage? I won't be swayed by your opinions, but feel free to offer them up.

Friday, March 26, 2010

a year at 29

I love lists, especially crossing things off the list. so satisfying.
here is my list of 29 things that I hope to accomplish upon entering a new year:
[in no particular order]
1) refrain from saying the word "holler"
2) go to Emerald Downs to see a dog or horse race
3) visit my grandparents more often
4) hike the enchantments
5) convince Ryan and Afton to let me take Cooper to Disneyland for his 2nd birthday
6) let courage teach me to be shy
7) talk less and listen more
8) read more of my assigned readings for graduate school, especially in ethics class
9) look into doing the "S2S" (Seattle to Spokane in one day on a bike)
10) to only take advice from those who's advice has a good track record
11) to not tell everyone my story, but to invest in a few close friends
12) to enter a karaoke contest
13) to fix the broken light in our condo I've been promising Emily I'd fix
14) the sink, too
15) to purchase tickets and plan my trip to Holland
16) to drive north to skagit valley this spring to visit the tulips
17) to wakeboard at least 5 times this summer
18) to do more encaustic art
19) take another cooking class with my mom and Afton
20) to figure out how to get a glassybaby drinker named after me
21) to commute more by bicycle
22) to find a group of cyclists to ride regularly with
23) to pay more attention to the news
24) to pay more attention to how I spend my money
25) to allow myself one more tattoo, but then no more ink after that
26) to not be so concerned with control
27) to take my vitamins and drink more water
28) run another marathon
29) hang out with my nephew and family at least once a week (okay, this one is a gimme, in case I don't get to the rest, at least I can cross this one off)

Wednesday, March 17, 2010

sometimes bigger is not better.


CAPES [something empowering] There's something to be said about a really well-made brownie or Whidbey Island's marionberry pie. If I was ever in a position where I would be forced to choose between either a life of singleness or never again having a brownie or slice of pie, I would be quite torn. It's questions like these that really put things in perspective. Because it's not about what you don't have, it's about taking pleasure in the small things in life that make you happy (and no, those small things are not limited to edible items...but I just ate a really good brownie, which should explain the tasty comparison).

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] So excited for SITC 2 featuring the fabulous Carrie Bradshaw...who I occasionally pretend to be (minus the sleeping around and frivolous spending).

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] If you're like me, you hate it when the TP runs out. For some reason, the act of changing a roll is so annoying. When I saw this super-duper-sized roll in the grocery store, I bought it thinking "I'll only have the change the roll once per month - yes!". However, do not fall victim to believing this, because like all fairy tales, it is too good to be true. The roll is big, and in this case bigger is not better. It takes going through half the roll before it even fits on the TP holder-roller-thingy and thus doubles my annoyance.

Friday, March 12, 2010

66.6% of this post is directed towards you [and you know who you are].


CAPES [something empowering] I think the UPS guy at work has a crush on me. Instead of being dodgy or rude, I take that crush to be a compliment. However, there is a fine line between taking it as a compliment and "playing" the UPS guy. I don't want to lead him on, because the only thing I have a crush on is his uniform.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] The next best thing to a glassybaby is a glassybaby drinker. They making drinking water that much funner (and yea, funner is a word).

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] When animals attack!...6 months later, I think I'm finally getting my stride back. I've successfully avoided all geese, cranes, owls and deers and have held on to my promise of only running in well-trafficked areas. Speaking of running...anyone want to run the Lake Sammamish Invitational with me this spring? [You can register through me, so consider that your official invitation to this exclusive race event...and the mileage ranges between 26.2-28.2 miles]

Monday, March 8, 2010

Forgive and re-forgive

CAPES [something empowering] Q: How do you know when you've forgiven someone? A: When you can seriously wish the best for them. Sometimes this happens immediately, and sometimes it takes time. Keep on re-forgiving them until you can wish them well.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] I'm in love with an Irishman named James Vincent McMorrow. Look him up.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] I'm on day 1 of a detox cleanse. The best part about day 1 is when it's over. We'll see if I make it thru he full 10 days.

Tuesday, March 2, 2010

behind bars


CAPES [something empowering] There's a fine line between not settling and having hollywood-esque expectations. Learn to master that balance.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Cycling season officially kicked off this past Sunday, with 6,000+ riders. I can now be found behind bars.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] I need my mom every now and then. The other day, I had an ear ache, so my mom came down with all her home remedies. I think it's nice for her to be needed, but to be on the receiving end is priceless. I'll spare you the details on the outcome of the home remedy...but will tell you that she found it so hilarious she said "this has got to make it in the blog". I've never been one to disappoint.

Friday, February 26, 2010

"I wish I was a little bit taller..."

CAPES [something empowering] Don't tell people "I don't have time", because what they'll hear is that you're not willing to make time for them.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] one word: jeggings. I want them.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] A well-known counselor in NY, before asking his patients what they've come in to see him for, asks how many hours of sleep they are getting at night. If the number is below 8, he sends them home prescribing them with 6-months of sleeping 8-hours per night, bids them goodbye, and tells them to come back if that doesn't fix their problems. I find this interesting. If I can sleep off my problems, then I'm going to bed. Goodnight.

Wednesday, February 24, 2010

hmmm, brownies.


CAPES [something empowering] I'm a fairly grounded person and don't mind being strong for others when they need a friend. However, there are times when I need someone to be strong for me. And that's okay, because just like an athlete needs a break from their weekly training...having others hold me up helps me recuperate. Without recuperation, muscles break down...and so does Annie.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Hancock's is right, they are the best.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Does anyone else miss the show Alias? I do. I also miss Dolphin Cove, Kids INC, Hangin with Mr. Cooper and A Different World...just to name a few.

Wednesday, February 17, 2010

The problem with time is that it always runs out.

CAPES [something empowering] The problem with time is that sometimes it heals and sometimes it hurts. But it always runs out. More often than not, I spend too much time in the hurt when what I really need to do is move on to heal. Spend your time wisely.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Gnocchi: boiled, then rolled in olive oil. Bake for 15 minutes at 425, the serve with a cream sauce or pesto. Crispy on the outside, doughy on the inside. Yum.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] In writing a grad paper on the Penal Substitution model of atonement, I inserted a personal story about my momma that I'd like to share. Enjoy:
Like most kids when they’re young, I would ask my mom random questions. I will never forget a particular question that I once asked her. And what’s more - I will never forget her response. I asked my mom: “Mom, what if a stranger came and grabbed me from the front yard while I was playing. What would you do?” Her response: “Well, Annie, I would run as fast as I could after them, and beat them up until they gave you back to me where you belong.” At hearing this, I remember being filled with two emotions: amazement and assurance. I was amazed at the fact that my mom would run (for in all her years as my mom, I’d never seen her run) and more importantly, I was assured by her unconditional love for me. Never in my mind, not then as a child and not now reflecting back, did I regard her motives to hurt the stranger as evil. Her motive, even if it did include an act of violence to get me back, was grounded in love. And in that love, there is no room for evil.
[and this is how I tied it into the paper]
Is this not the same story we find when we approach the cross and atonement? When we think of the cross in light of Penal Substitution, we should not be left with the sense of violence, but of love.

Sunday, February 14, 2010

the best of what's around.


CAPES [something empowering] "V" is for Victory, not Victim. Think about it.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] I've done the homework. These chips are the best. No doubt.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] It's nice to miss someone. And it's nice to be missed back. I love getting and sending texts/emails that simply ask "remember when [fill in the blank]..." As of late, my favorite has to be "remember stalking those senior guys when we were in 7th grade? we were so cool." Yes we were, Julie.
And I still know his phone number, do you?

Monday, February 8, 2010

save yourself a buck and forget the carnations.



CAPES [something empowering] I like to replay conversations that I've had throughout the day. During the
re-runs, I often find miscommunications... things I've said that were probably taken the wrong way. This knowledge gives me an opportunity to straighten things out. But more often than not, during the re-runs I find times where I should have practiced more restraint. Take the time to be intentional about what you say...and what's even harder: take the time to learn to practice not saying something that you'll later on regret.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] There's never a time that I hate carnations more than when Valentine's Day rolls around. If I could extinct one flower, the carnation would be it. I'm convinced it's a weed. It you want to be cheap, it's better to buy no flowers than to buy carnations. Consider yourself warned.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] I hate frisbee. Somehow, it's already sprinter (spring+winter) in Seattle, and with that spring weather...out come the 'bees. I admittedly stereotype people with frisbees - they are usually lanky, don vintage t-shirts, carry a nalgene or two, wear chaco sandals, and have their bibles-a-packing (usually duct-taped together). And please don't hear what I'm not saying - I don't hate the people that love frisbee, I just find the activity annoying. So, who wants to toss the football around? I've got 2 in my trunk.

Wednesday, February 3, 2010

The best offense is a good defense.


CAPES [something empowering]
Ladies: admit it, you like to be in control. However, when it comes to relationships, you might realize that in the long run it's nice to relinquish some of that control (easier said than done, I know). But just because you may not be the one calling the shots or "running the ball", keep in mind that the best offense is a good defense...in other words, relationships are never one-side and balance is key. So let it go already.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] TJs has a delicious new salad! I'm on day 3 of having it for dinner, and plan to make tomorrow day 4. The picture doesn't do it justice...especially since it was taken after said salad was consumed.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] People associate me with my Dutch heritage. Therefore, I receive Dutch stickers, Holland mugs, Netherlands coffee, Dutch chips, and I also get set up on blind dates by my Grandma with underage 100% Dutch men (and yes, it was at her nursing home, and yes he brought his mom and sister with him), as well as receive emails saying how now Wednesdays at Butler University mean wearing orange and blue. Keep it coming, people! Hup Holland Hup!

Monday, February 1, 2010

"Should I give up, or should I just keep chasing pavements...even if it leads nowhere?" (Adele)



CAPES [something empowering] Relationships are always risky. Do yourself a favor and ask the question - "Is it worth the risk?". If you can't answer "yes", then you should question what it is you're exactly doing in that relationship in the first place.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction]: I love shoes. These topsiders are my new favorite. They'll be great for spring/summer, but I'm already breaking them in cause I can't wait that long.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] I feel like my best ideas come to me when I'm driving or brushing my teeth. Dry erase markers help me put these ideas into action. Besides whiteboards, here are some alternate uses: keep them in your car to write things down on your windshield that you MUST NOT FORGET (like people to call, places to go, etc). Another car use: while you're driving around town, and happen to see a familiar friend's car, you can write them a fun note on their driver's side window, just to let them know you were in the area and thinking of them. They are also handy for your bathroom mirror - write either empowering messages to yourself, reminders, or grocery lists, etc. Happy brainstorming!

Friday, January 29, 2010

she loved life and it loved her right back.

CAPES [something empowering] When I was a little girl, I asked my grandpa what he did when he doubted his faith. He told me that whenever he doubted, he would recall the times when things had happened to him that he knew-knew-knew were because of God. Then he asked me if I had any stories like that. Being younger, I couldn't think of any. He then proceeded to tell me one of his stories. At the end, he said I could borrow his story until I got my own. I wish I could have told him before he died that I have some of my own stories now. There is nothing more powerful than someone standing in the gap and believing for you.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] DON'T: wash your hair every day. DO: use this fabulous dry shampoo in between washings. Oprah says you can actually "train" your hair to not need to be washed every day. However, please continue to shower frequently. Haven't found a way around that one yet. Don't you wish everyone used Dial?

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Try to use these words today: callipygian & gesticulations. If you succeed, please comment how it went over (especially with that first one).

Wednesday, January 27, 2010

her pants were tight and that's okay.

CAPES [something empowering] Fear always lies (except when it's a big bear in your tent, then for sure let fear run your butt in the other direction).

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] I am always losing my flash drive. Recently, a friend showed me a magic pocket. Install it on your computer (it's free!), and say "bye-bye flash drive".

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] I can't pronounce the word "peculiar". Some would also argue that I can't pronounce the word "house". However, I CAN pronounce the words "strange" and "home". Yea for synonyms.

Monday, January 25, 2010

Strrrrrrrretch yourself.

CAPES [something empowering] The pursuit of happiness is the source of all unhappiness. Look around you...find something to be thankful and happy for in your present state. Gratitude can be a really good feature.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Glassybaby isn't a new trend, but giving to Haiti is...and thru the end of February, when you purchase a Glassybaby, mention "Haiti" and we'll donate 10% to the relief efforts being made by Red Cross. If purchasing online, put "Haiti" in the promo code.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] When my nephew wakes up from his nap, he shoots his arms straight up and stretches for a good long while. I am inspired - I need to stretch more. Thanks again, Coop, you're always teaching me something.

Friday, January 22, 2010

Don't do that.


CAPES [something empowering] Sometimes people talk about you behind your back and it stinks. The temptation is that we then feel entitled to turn around and do the very thing that hurt us in the first place. Don't do that. You'll never regret not talking bad about someone.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] I am absolutely addicted to TJ's tangerine juice. It's fresh, tangy, bright orange, and I'd rather drink my vitamins than take a pill. Bottoms up!


THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] They are here! Lululemon has Olympic Cheer Gear...I wish they had stuff for Holland, but the Swedish gear is pretty fun!

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

I am King Ahab.



Tonight I gave a talk at youth group on King Ahab.
Little did I know that going into prepping for this talk, would I discover several things about myself and the newly found importance of friends and family.
King Ahab was dubbed "the baddest of the bad". His "incident" with Naboth's vineyard gives reason as to why. The Rev. Dr. Scott Dudley calls Ahab's experience with being consumed with desire and being bitchy when you don't get your way the "if only" syndrome. Translation: Ahab's attitude was "if only I have Naboth's vineyard, then I would be happy".
Do we not do the same?
Okay, I know I totally do.
Upon reflecting on this passage, and how so much of the time I do the same, I also noticed a shift that has happened in my life. More on that "shift" later.
My "if only" for the past many years has been "if only I was married, then I would be happy". I know, it sounds so shallow. But I really believed it. REALLY did. I was waiting for it to happen, because when it did, the pieces would fall into place. Then I would really be happy. Then I wouldn't be lonely. Then I would have this "community" that I so longed for. In the process of believing this, guess what happened? Self-absorption. I totally became obsessed with just getting what I wanted. What an icky place to be. I probably wasn't the greatest person to hang out with. Most of my relationships were surfacey. And even when I would feel convicted about thinking that maybe there was something else out there besides my "if only" that could make me happy...I didn't do anything about it, because I really did believe that marriage was my ticket to happiness.
It may sound cheesy, but Cooper James Vander Pol (born March 25, 2009) shook me out of this self-centered mindset.
This is the shift I was talking about earlier.
Seeing him for the first time, I knew that there was something greater beyond my "if only" (correction, I didn't know this right away, it was a process...but looking back, it was his birth that started the process, so I give him the credit. I'll tell him when he's older...and thank him for it). Being a part of his life, and being more intentional with family really showed me that there is greater fulfillment than sitting around wishful thinking.
The trouble I have gotten into is this: when I am consumed with what I want, I miss out on things going on all around me - especially the things that God wants for me. And that is a most dangerous place to be.
I'm glad to say I've shaken off my "if only" and though it comes back to haunt me, I have learned these past 9 months that I am truly fulfilled and happy when I am asking God what HE wants for me (not what Annie wants for me...because I'm often wrong) and participating in the relationships He's already surrounded me with - like family and strong relationships I'm building with roommates and awesome ladies (yea, you know who you are).
So, Coopaloopa, Coop du Jour, King Coopa, Cooper James - thank you. I'm glad you were born to knock some sense into me.