Changes

So here I am, at 11:30 on a Saturday morning, drinking my coffee in my home office instead behind the counter of in the store.

What have I been doing these last few weeks?

I've been enjoying most aspects of my "vacation", including coffee and crossword puzzles with my hubby most mornings.

My craft room is starting to take shape. (Finding homes for all that STUFF is taking time.)

We've taken Grandma to several medical appoints. I've had a few of my own, too. I've started physical therapy, and I'm starting to see progress.

All those books I've been meaning to read? They have been read.

The one I've been meaning to write? I'm writing it.

What comes next?

We're riding the rails in February.

The last time I took a train trip was with the girl scouts when I was in elementary school. We got as far as Red Wing. This trip will take us to Memphis. (Yes Memphis. Yes, we will tour Graceland. Touring Graceland is a requirement if you visit Memphis, right?))

I plan to take lots of photos of our adventure and will share them with you upon our return.

When vacation, self imposed or actual is over, Grandma's babysitting service will open for business as I take on childcare for the two youngest grands three days a week.

I'm also going to help as needed with the Anderson's new business, the National Impala Association. There will be a huge event in Indianapolis later this summer, sponsered by the NIA. I'll be there. (Race You To Indy!)

I'm also working with my pastor to develop a new "love in action" ministry through my church.

If you are one of the friends I made on Marie Avenue over the years, please know I miss you and would love to hear from you. It was hard to get used to not being there each day waiting for you to drop in an visit.

But I am happy, busy, and loving this new season of my life.

Yes, there is life for me beyond the Caprice Paper Arts store, and it is good.

At the beginning

Some people call them resolutions.

I like to call them beginnings.

The new year seems like an excellent time to begin things. I have a list.

In 2008 I'd like to publish some of my work. I'd like to finally get my home studio organized. I'd like to travel with my hubby, do a few badly needed projects around the house, and learn to knit. I'd like to give my family more time. I'd like to give more attention to my ministry through my church.

With things still unsettled on Marie Avenue, I'm finding I have time on my hands to "begin" on these beginnings.

We're building storage for the studio. I expect a February finish date and I'm excited.

My new computer has found a perma-home in my office and is getting regular use.

A friend has promised to teach me knitting.

Our first trip is a little more than a month away.

I'm meeting with our pastor tomorrow to talk over some ministry ideas he has.

My family has been popping in like crazy.

2008 is getting off to a good start. My beginnings are beginning to fall into place. I pray yours are, as well.

Thanks for stopping by.