9.14.2010
Catch up!!
I have SOOOO much catching up to do on this blog. Summer has cruised by with no time to keep up but I will try and post a few things this week. Here are a few Pics of Coco in the meantime...
Catalina*NewPort*Balboa
In June we headed to California for a little getaway with our friends the Carlsons and Hewletts. First stop was Catalina Island... We rode around the island on our cruisers, ate LOTS of treats, laughed and laughed. The boys and I went diving the next morning. I had never been on a cold water dive and it was COLD but so beautiful! We headed back to the mainland the next day and went to Newport and Balboa for a little shopping. Courtney put together a movie of our little adventure. Good times!
6.22.2010
a little getaway...a little work..
Back in April I had a convention in San Fran so Ben and I decided to make it a great excuse to get away for a couple of days. I hadn't been to this part of California in years! We went across the Golden Gate to beautiful Sausalito to stay for a couple of nights and we weren't disappointed. Sausalito is a fun, romantic little town right on the waters edge. It was very romantic and we lucked out with beautiful sunny weather which we heard is hard to come by that time of year! Marin county is really stunning with the lush greenery, redwoods and the bay. It is also the acclaimed birthplace of mountain biking so we needed to pay our dues and go for a ride while we were there. We rented bikes and road from Saualito all the way to the top of Mount Tamalpais, around 2500 vertical feet! It may have been a bit more than we wanted to do but the views around every corner keept us going all the way to the top where we were greeted with stunning views of the ocean, bay, city, bridges, rocky outcrops, dense forests, and the beach! I pictures didn't come close to capturing the view :(
I would love to make this trip one we do every year, we didn't even touch the surface of all the great things to do. We did have a little time for the farmers market, and some shopping in the city too before it was time for the work part of the trip to start... good times!
Beautiful Sausalito
Mount Tamalpais
15 minutes before the TOP
Muir Woods National Monument
Biking through the redwoods and a view of the ocean from 2500 feet!
I would love to make this trip one we do every year, we didn't even touch the surface of all the great things to do. We did have a little time for the farmers market, and some shopping in the city too before it was time for the work part of the trip to start... good times!
Beautiful Sausalito
Mount Tamalpais
15 minutes before the TOP
Muir Woods National Monument
Biking through the redwoods and a view of the ocean from 2500 feet!5.26.2010
COMMITMENT
The word commitment often brings out mixed emotions for people. At a time when we are presented with endless options, making a commitment to something or someone can appear to be a challenge.
Often people resist fully committing to an idea because they want to minimise their risks. The only hitch is that, when it comes to life, a partial commitment usually returns only partial results and partial joy.
It is fear that often holds us back from going after our heart’s desire. First there is the fear of people seeing us fail, or at the very least struggle as we stretch ourselves to reach out for something new. We also fear success and the new responsibilities that success always brings.
I like to compare the process of making a commitment to the process of surfing. When you see a wave coming that you want to ride, you launch yourself forward into action preparing to ‘catch’ the wave. This is the same as the first steps you take when you want to achieve a goal or make a vision a reality.
Then comes the point when the wave ‘catches’ you! Sweeping you up, it starts to pull you forward with it’s own momentum. It is at this moment the crucial decision has to be made. Do I want to catch this wave or not? It is a decision that relies on gut level instinct.
You can either pull back, and let the wave roll on by, or throw your whole being into it. You know that a half hearted commitment will have you being dumped in the white wash, tossed unceremoniously around like a wet rag.However, if you throw every bit of your being at the wave you can have the chance to experience a wild and joyous ride.
Life is very much like the ocean. There are endless options to choose from, just as there are always new waves. But to experience the sense of triumph and satisfaction that comes from fully realising our dreams, we have to commit to that vision, person or goal; just the same as we need to commit to the wave we want to ride.
Commitment requires not only action, but a sense of purpose that is unwavering even in the face of challenges.
Often people resist fully committing to an idea because they want to minimise their risks. The only hitch is that, when it comes to life, a partial commitment usually returns only partial results and partial joy.
It is fear that often holds us back from going after our heart’s desire. First there is the fear of people seeing us fail, or at the very least struggle as we stretch ourselves to reach out for something new. We also fear success and the new responsibilities that success always brings.
I like to compare the process of making a commitment to the process of surfing. When you see a wave coming that you want to ride, you launch yourself forward into action preparing to ‘catch’ the wave. This is the same as the first steps you take when you want to achieve a goal or make a vision a reality.
Then comes the point when the wave ‘catches’ you! Sweeping you up, it starts to pull you forward with it’s own momentum. It is at this moment the crucial decision has to be made. Do I want to catch this wave or not? It is a decision that relies on gut level instinct.
You can either pull back, and let the wave roll on by, or throw your whole being into it. You know that a half hearted commitment will have you being dumped in the white wash, tossed unceremoniously around like a wet rag.However, if you throw every bit of your being at the wave you can have the chance to experience a wild and joyous ride.
Life is very much like the ocean. There are endless options to choose from, just as there are always new waves. But to experience the sense of triumph and satisfaction that comes from fully realising our dreams, we have to commit to that vision, person or goal; just the same as we need to commit to the wave we want to ride.
Commitment requires not only action, but a sense of purpose that is unwavering even in the face of challenges.
5.18.2010
Surfing...
This was in my email box this morning from Ben. I loved it and even though it is written about surfing I think it can apply to many other parts of life...
Playa Guiones, Costa Rica 5/2/10It’s not the destination, it’s the journey.
If you fall, it’s just water. If you aren’t falling, you aren’t learning.
These simple rules dance in my head as a code for life. They remind me to be light-hearted during every surf session—on the beach before paddling out, as I’m gliding carelessly down the wave, and when I ride the last one in. They say to me that surfing can be unique, spiritual, and that I’ll never stop learning from our Mother Ocean.
There are particular moments, dream-like glimpses of other events in life, that I’ll never forget. They are the milestones, epiphanies, and pillars of my surfing career. Whether they are the wise words of mentors or the visual memories forever etched in my mind, they provide me with the encouragement and inspiration that has kept my passion for teaching, surfing, and adventure alive for nearly a decade.
So you want to try surfing? You’ve had dreams about it since you were a young girl? You have a subscription to Surfer magazine and seen Blue Crush a hundred times? You live in Washington DC, but wear surf attire year round? Well, what’s stopping you? Afraid?
Make a move, you’ll never regret it, promise. How could you possibly regret something so fresh and exciting, a new challenge that gives you a unique perspective into yourself and your capabilities?
You have fears and that’s healthy, so let‘s talk about how to relieve those pre-surf jitters. Here are a few simple pieces of advice for stepping out of your safety net.
First Things First. Pick a place you’ve never been, a destination you’ve always dreamed about. Of course, make sure there is surf. Next, take a lesson with someone qualified. I’m a firm believer in hiring the right person for the job. Utilize your teacher’s well of knowledge. Ask all your questions. Share your anxieties. It’ll help when you know exactly what you’re up against and what you can expect while in the water. Believe me, I’ve been there and can understand how you feel.
My Golden Rule: Relax. Remember it’s just water and you aren’t learning unless you’re falling.
Let Go of Preconceived Notions. Don’t think about what surfing should look like and what it should feel like. Lose the idea that there’s a specific place you need to go. Trust yourself and your instructor. Literally, go with the flow. Play. Surfing will always offer something new every time you paddle out.
Don’t Sugar Coat It. I’ve kiteboarded, windsurfed, skied, and mountain biked, but surfing is the most challenging sport I’ve ever done. It’s also offers the most liberating, healthy, and rewarding lifestyle, and a joyful and free-spirited community.
Get Out There. There’s a whole ocean to discover and a lifestyle to embrace. ‘Hang loose’, ‘get stoked’ and grab what’s there for you. The sea is a magnificent place, so share the experience with someone who has the same love of the ocean, your surf instructor.
If you fall, it’s just water. If you aren’t falling, you aren’t learning.
These simple rules dance in my head as a code for life. They remind me to be light-hearted during every surf session—on the beach before paddling out, as I’m gliding carelessly down the wave, and when I ride the last one in. They say to me that surfing can be unique, spiritual, and that I’ll never stop learning from our Mother Ocean.
There are particular moments, dream-like glimpses of other events in life, that I’ll never forget. They are the milestones, epiphanies, and pillars of my surfing career. Whether they are the wise words of mentors or the visual memories forever etched in my mind, they provide me with the encouragement and inspiration that has kept my passion for teaching, surfing, and adventure alive for nearly a decade.
So you want to try surfing? You’ve had dreams about it since you were a young girl? You have a subscription to Surfer magazine and seen Blue Crush a hundred times? You live in Washington DC, but wear surf attire year round? Well, what’s stopping you? Afraid?
Make a move, you’ll never regret it, promise. How could you possibly regret something so fresh and exciting, a new challenge that gives you a unique perspective into yourself and your capabilities?
You have fears and that’s healthy, so let‘s talk about how to relieve those pre-surf jitters. Here are a few simple pieces of advice for stepping out of your safety net.
First Things First. Pick a place you’ve never been, a destination you’ve always dreamed about. Of course, make sure there is surf. Next, take a lesson with someone qualified. I’m a firm believer in hiring the right person for the job. Utilize your teacher’s well of knowledge. Ask all your questions. Share your anxieties. It’ll help when you know exactly what you’re up against and what you can expect while in the water. Believe me, I’ve been there and can understand how you feel.
My Golden Rule: Relax. Remember it’s just water and you aren’t learning unless you’re falling.
Let Go of Preconceived Notions. Don’t think about what surfing should look like and what it should feel like. Lose the idea that there’s a specific place you need to go. Trust yourself and your instructor. Literally, go with the flow. Play. Surfing will always offer something new every time you paddle out.
Don’t Sugar Coat It. I’ve kiteboarded, windsurfed, skied, and mountain biked, but surfing is the most challenging sport I’ve ever done. It’s also offers the most liberating, healthy, and rewarding lifestyle, and a joyful and free-spirited community.
Get Out There. There’s a whole ocean to discover and a lifestyle to embrace. ‘Hang loose’, ‘get stoked’ and grab what’s there for you. The sea is a magnificent place, so share the experience with someone who has the same love of the ocean, your surf instructor.
by Morag Sewell
Morag began her surfing career in the chilly waters of Northern California. While earning a bachelor’s degree in fine art from the University of California Santa Cruz, she was able to also study surfing under the tutelage of world-class longboarders. Today, she holds a senior position as California State Lifeguard on the busy beaches of Malibu. To learn more about Morag and the Las Olas crew, visit http://www.surflasolas.com/.
P.S. Let me know if anyone wants to come with me to http://www.surflasolas.com/ or better yet http://www.surfgoddessretreats.com/ one of these days I will make it there.
Easter in Zion
Coco, Angels Landing ZionsTrying to escape the never ending winter we headed down south to spend Easter weekend in Zion. Ben's sister Sara and family were spending the week camping just outside of Springdale and we couldn't pass up the chance at warm weather and the opportunity to hang with the Slatters. It wasn't a balmy 80 degrees or anything but it was LOTS better than the 2 feet of snow Park City was getting. We did a few hikes including Angels Landing with Coco in tow, she did great and just loves being part of the crew. The Desert Pearl, where we were staying put on a really cute Easter Egg hunt on the back of their property along the Virgin River, it was really a beautiful morning. Coco had fun at her first real Easter egg hunt and very generously opened all her eggs and dumped out the candy for the other kids to enjoy while she collected the empty plastic eggs. I wonder if that will change next year : )
Easter Egg hunt along the Virgin River
Coco, Clara and Camilla
Hiking angels landing with the Slatters
4.07.2010
Coco... 18 months
I took Coco to her 18month Dr. appt and she has finally hit 20lb's!! Yippie! Finally time to have a forward facing car seat. She is so much happier in the car and actually made a car noise for the first 15 minutes of her first ride. I think she thought she was driving because she had never been able to look out the front window before. She is still in the 5th percentile for weight and is just a small little thing but she is a healthy happy little toddler. She is so sweet and gives lots of kisses and loves to all her animals and mommy and dadda. She understands both English and Spanish very well and has a couple words that she only says in Spanish. It is really amazing to see. She is talking a LOT and can even name a few letters in the alphabet. She has been such a joy to have in our home. I absolutely love being her mommy. We are so blessed.
Presidents Weekend
We had a fun weekend away in Island Park over Presidents weekend this year. We snowmobiled through Yellowstone on a beautiful sunny day. It was so beautiful and I was so glad we had good weather because it was still pretty cold. There's nothing better than a warm cabin, great food and fun friends on a winter weekend!
4.06.2010
Coco Rica
Costa Rica is now called Coco Rica in our family, thanks to Auntie Jennifer. We had such a great time in January on our trip to CR. Ben's sister Jennifer and her kids had the pleasure of an extended 3+ month stay this winter and Ben's brother Paul and his family have lived there for 3 years now so we had lots of family to enjoy. Lots of sunsets, potlucks and game nights. Ben took his mountain bike down and was able to do a couple long rides and even a race. We went to the fiesta to see the crazy bull riding and had lots of surf and beach time with Coco. She LOVED all the attention from her cousins and aunts & uncles. I can't believe it has been 3 months since this trip, as I was getting these pictures together it was crazy to see how much she has grown up since then. She is such a great little traveler.
Sites from Ben's mountain bike ride to Avellanas including a poisonous coral snake!
Coco enjoying the fresh air and flowers at the house
Coco playing with her cousins
Sweet Berklee
Coco showing her love for the beach
Ben enjoying the seen from Lola's at Avellanas beach
Coco posing for a picture, this seems to happen a lot...
Lola's at Avellanas
Hunting for cool shells and rocks in Marbella
Coco enjoying some daddy time, sunsets and surfing
The beautiful Varley's: Jen, Thea and Wyatt
Beautiful Buehner girls: Jodie, Berklee and Bella
Coco y Momma
Cousins
The girls
3.15.2010
Turn off the TV and Improve Married Life
I Loved this article I read on a great site that I frequent http://www.zenfamilyhabits.net/
“I think we watch too much TV” stated my wife.
“Er, uh, what?” As I hit pause on the Tivo. “I’m sorry, what did you say?”
“Nothing” she replied.
This is a conversation we’ve had several times throughout the course of our 16 years together. We’ve had times of limiting our television watching, a period of going without cable in order to cut costs and save money, and we’ve had a couple of times where we went a week without turning on the TV.
This time, we went an entire month without the TV on once. No favorite shows, no sports, no cartoons (it took a couple of weeks for the kids to stop asking).
At first, it was tough. I realized that veg time with the TV was a way I would unwind and relax at the end of the day. I noticed my stress level was a bit higher. I was shorter with the kids.
But after a week or so, I began to like the idea more. We spent time playing as a family. The kids played puzzles and up’d their imaginative play (which I love watching). We would eat dinners and breakfasts outside on the deck. And after the kids went to bed, rather than my wife and I zoning out in front of the TV, we’d sit outside and talk, work on little projects around the house, read, or spend our time in other pursuits (wink, wink).
When the month was over, we kept the experiment going, only with a couple alterations. The kids now watch a couple of cartoons in the morning, and we catch a game at times (I married a woman who likes watching sports … yep, I’m a lucky man).
We still talk about doing away with the whole thing, and then we come back to the other side and enjoy TV in short bursts. But one thing is for sure – the times we have gone without (or dramatically less) TV, there has been an improvement in the quality of our marriage.
Here’s what we discovered:
1. Get more sleep. I’m a night owl. I would regularly be up until midnight, usually watching TV. Now I find myself in bed reading by 10 or so. I’ve picked up around 2 hours more sleep per night by simply turning off the TV.
2. Talk more. Without the mindlessness of TV in the way, we began taking more, and we already had a relationship where talking to each other is not really a problem. We sit in the living room and talk. Hang out with each other and read. The point is, we connect more.
3. Live life rather than watching others live theirs. This seems to be a growing issue in our world. Reality shows (if you can call them that) are everywhere. This has led to more and more people watching others live rather than getting up off the couch and living themselves. Plan an adventure. Work on things together. Start a business. We have good friends who 8 months ago did away with their TV completely. They are now planning on how they are going to fulfill one of their dreams of living overseas. They head out in a year, with a 5 and 2 year old.
4. Less consumerism, more contentment. Without the constant bombardment of ads and must haves, you really do become more content with what you have. You can then focus on what you need, which isn’t all that much, rather than what other people say you need or want.
5. A better outlook on life. Granted, the world we live in is rough at times, and times are hard currently, but when you disconnect from the mainstream news sources, you’ll probably discover that things are not as bad as they led you to believe. My wife and I have been on a news media fast for 2 years now – and we have no plans of going back.
Post written by Zen Family Habits contributor Corey Allan. Follow him on Twitter.
“I think we watch too much TV” stated my wife.
“Er, uh, what?” As I hit pause on the Tivo. “I’m sorry, what did you say?”
“Nothing” she replied.
This is a conversation we’ve had several times throughout the course of our 16 years together. We’ve had times of limiting our television watching, a period of going without cable in order to cut costs and save money, and we’ve had a couple of times where we went a week without turning on the TV.
This time, we went an entire month without the TV on once. No favorite shows, no sports, no cartoons (it took a couple of weeks for the kids to stop asking).
At first, it was tough. I realized that veg time with the TV was a way I would unwind and relax at the end of the day. I noticed my stress level was a bit higher. I was shorter with the kids.
But after a week or so, I began to like the idea more. We spent time playing as a family. The kids played puzzles and up’d their imaginative play (which I love watching). We would eat dinners and breakfasts outside on the deck. And after the kids went to bed, rather than my wife and I zoning out in front of the TV, we’d sit outside and talk, work on little projects around the house, read, or spend our time in other pursuits (wink, wink).
When the month was over, we kept the experiment going, only with a couple alterations. The kids now watch a couple of cartoons in the morning, and we catch a game at times (I married a woman who likes watching sports … yep, I’m a lucky man).
We still talk about doing away with the whole thing, and then we come back to the other side and enjoy TV in short bursts. But one thing is for sure – the times we have gone without (or dramatically less) TV, there has been an improvement in the quality of our marriage.
Here’s what we discovered:
1. Get more sleep. I’m a night owl. I would regularly be up until midnight, usually watching TV. Now I find myself in bed reading by 10 or so. I’ve picked up around 2 hours more sleep per night by simply turning off the TV.
2. Talk more. Without the mindlessness of TV in the way, we began taking more, and we already had a relationship where talking to each other is not really a problem. We sit in the living room and talk. Hang out with each other and read. The point is, we connect more.
3. Live life rather than watching others live theirs. This seems to be a growing issue in our world. Reality shows (if you can call them that) are everywhere. This has led to more and more people watching others live rather than getting up off the couch and living themselves. Plan an adventure. Work on things together. Start a business. We have good friends who 8 months ago did away with their TV completely. They are now planning on how they are going to fulfill one of their dreams of living overseas. They head out in a year, with a 5 and 2 year old.
4. Less consumerism, more contentment. Without the constant bombardment of ads and must haves, you really do become more content with what you have. You can then focus on what you need, which isn’t all that much, rather than what other people say you need or want.
5. A better outlook on life. Granted, the world we live in is rough at times, and times are hard currently, but when you disconnect from the mainstream news sources, you’ll probably discover that things are not as bad as they led you to believe. My wife and I have been on a news media fast for 2 years now – and we have no plans of going back.
Post written by Zen Family Habits contributor Corey Allan. Follow him on Twitter.
3.07.2010
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