7.26.2008

Recent Michigan Visitors

I'll post soon about my family's visit with pictures...keep posted.

Southern California Saturday

My roommate and I headed up to a Ventura state beach to experience high tide, it was quite the adventure. After spending a few minutes to set up on what little beach there was against the rocks, a huge wave came in and soaked us. After making sure our things were stored on top of the rocks, we headed out to the cold ocean for a swim...my first swim since I've lived in California. How long have I lived here you might ask? 5 years! After admitting the truth to my roommate she is bound and determine that we hit as many beaches possible before summer is out to swim at them.

We spent an hour at the beach; finishing our time wrapped in towels sitting on the rocks as the waves crashed around us.

Thanks Jenn for the adventure,
Tara

7.06.2008

4th of July weekend

Each year is rememberable for me, but the best 4th's are those near a body of water. This year living somewhere new was a challenge, until I was invited to Silverstrand Beach in Oxnard, CA. With amazing host/hostess (Greg and Debbie Dziem) just a day off turned into an adventure. Debbie and Greg's cottage was only a few steps from the sand...by time we arrived, parking had become a hassle, but Greg secured us a spot across from their place. The streets were filled with people, beach and party goers alike on America's big day.

I learned much from my friends that came, one was that a few folk not only knew what cribbage was, but they actually played it. (I know this might sound foreign to those back home, but really cribbage isn't a game that is played out here) I now have a cribbage opponent in my local community, thank you Toni! That afternoon I also learned how to play bean toss...not that I could explain it now, but it was fun to try it. Most off all, I learned to listen and be open to meeting others, for the Lord had a plan for me...to be open to what I would feel that day.

After awhile, we headed to the beach to hang out, soaking up the sunshine, enjoying the soothing sand between our toes, and getting wind hair (quite a breeze out there). The longer we vegged the chiller it got.

That evening watching the fireworks from the beach felt like home for me. Surrounded by families ooooing and aaaaahing as each new sparkle in the sky displayed it's color, the sound of waves lapping the shoreline, and comfort of friends gathered in harmony; for a brief moment in time we were "One nation under God".

I cannot end this post without saying that the spread was delicious...Greg grills a mean chicken wing...the only way for me to describe them would be as such. You know when you are driving in the summer time and you smell a bbq? You sniff the air and lick your lips...that's exactly what his chicken wings taste like...I devoured every last morsel on my plate, licking my fingers until I was clean. The strawberry shortcake and homemade whipped cream was the last thing I ate that evening...it was all so good and filling. I did not eat much the next day, still full from the 4th.

5.08.2008

Spring

Hello all, just wanted to let you know I'm still alive and kicking. Sorry I haven't posted in some time; with spring on it's way, life is getting busy.

I'll post again when I get the time.

2.13.2008

The Lord has taken a good man

When I arrived at work today I noticed that the Pepperdine flag is at half mast and wonder if a co-worker has found his way to Heaven. Later that morning I do find out that in deed, Chris Sangster has been lifted high to the Lord, leaving the earth behind last night.

My regards to the family, friends, and all of those who where deeply touched by him.
Chris, I love, miss, and will remember you always!

Sun Visors

Dear California Drivers,
On your morning southbound commute, please anticipate using your visor (that thing on the roof above your steering wheel). Every morning I run into the same issue...the Sun. It appears over the mountain and looks all of us right in the eyes...I understand it's bright, but that's what the sun visor is used for...to block the sun. There isn't a need to slam on your breaks and jack up the rest of traffic for your stupidity.
Sincerely,
Michigan Driver