The Goode Times

2011-07-05T16:50:00.001-07:00

David and I finally got ourselves out the door and on a (mini) vacation.

It was everything I needed it to be.

We left for Washington D.C. last week looking forward to seeing some sights and catching up (slash meeting) lots of family.

I could get really sappy and long winded about my Grandparents, and how much they mean to me despite only seeing them maybe once a year for most of my life. I'm going to try really hard not to go on and on about how much I love them. How blessed I know I am to be their granddaughter, and to be a part of their family. So I'll have to move on quickly before I get stuck here raving about the wonderful people they are.

I expected the trip to be great. David had a lot of people to meet and I was bringing my pride and joy of a peanut to show off, so I knew it would be fun. I expected to feel loved and welcome like you only can when you're with family. I expected good card games and silly yard games with cousins. I expected pestering Uncles and so sweet Aunts.

But this trip (even though it was a mini one) was more than that for me.

Maybe it is because I had pushed real life out of my mind. So on my mental break from reality and responsibility I could really SEE some things.

I learned a lot. Maybe I was just reminded of a lot.

1. Every baby should think they are the center of the universe. Babies can do no wrong. My family reveres babies. Can you imagine if every baby got that kind of love.

2. So many of us- no matter how different we are- want the same things. To be safe and happy with our families. It's that simple.

3. You can ALWAYS be learning.

4. People need people. The human soul is not meant to be alone. We need different things from each other. But every one needs some kind of companionship.

5. Family really makes the best friends.

I love my family. A lot.

Even if I can't see them every day (year).

I'm sure we'll try and sneak back again sometime soon.

Did you know....

2011-05-25T13:11:00.000-07:00

The Cummer Museum is free on Tuesday evenings?

I have a new vision for my backyard.

Happy Birthday to Me

2011-05-25T13:07:00.000-07:00

White cabinets make me happy.

It's just one of my things.

Mother

2011-05-06T12:31:00.000-07:00

The holiest words my tongue can frame,
The noblest thoughts my soul can claim,
Unworthy are to praise the name
More precious than all other.
An infant, when her love first came,
A man, I find it still the same,
Reverently I breathe her name,
The blessed name of mother.

-George Griffith Fether, “The Name of Mother,”

House Guests

2011-04-09T05:15:00.000-07:00

I really do enjoy having guests in our home. I like company. But this guys. Our latest guest is no longer welcome. First of all, he sows up unannounced. Rude. I got over it, because after all his home is SO close to ours. And then there is the space issue. He just doesn't get it. Always trying to get closer and closer to places he should go. And he can't take a hint (note the two shoes and water in the picture below).

And then there is the quiet way he moves. So every time you see him it's a surprise. Not a pleasant surprise. It makes things like watering a terrifying experience.

I'm all for house guests, but this guy.

He is not welcome.

Do you see what I see?

2011-03-08T07:32:00.000-08:00

It's right there...... do you see it?

We had to go outside and get a closer look, do you see it now?

How adorable is that?!

I'm seriously surrounded by baby cuteness!

I'm not even a reptile person, but come one. This little turtle is a-dorable! Hopefully he'll visit our porch again.

A leap of faith

2011-02-12T13:20:00.000-08:00

Isn't that what it is when we get married. I mean really. You can't really know what someone will be like as your husband until they are. You can't really know what someone will be like as a father until they are. So you take a leap of faith.

I put quite a bit of faith in David. Especially when it came to the kind of father he would be. I'd only seen him in action with children a few times. But that was really just a glimpse of him with kids, nothing else. Being a father to your his own kiddos would be totally different. And so, a leap of faith I took.

And I'm so glad I did. We are two lucky girls.

State Ravines

2011-02-06T11:07:00.000-08:00

1. I love to be outside.

2. I love finding new (free!) places to explore.

Most Saturdays wile I was growing up, my family could be found somewhere in the Florida sunshine. We were always enjoying the great recreation Florida has to offer. My mom instilled in each of her children a love and appreciation of nature and all of Heavenly Fathers creations . So naturally while my family was visiting we ventured to out to the Black Creek Ravines Conservation Area in Middleburg. I've seen the sign a million times driving south down Blanding, and finally decided to go check it outIt was a beautiful day, and we hiked and ate out packed lunch. Beautiful scenery, perfect weather, and a great new place to play.

To Us

2011-01-27T14:37:00.001-08:00

A Date

An Engagement

A Wedding

A Graduation

A House

A Family

Thanks for for great years darling! They sure have been full.

Happy Anniversary to us.

Thank you

2011-01-25T09:49:00.000-08:00

This past weekend was our Stake conference. We were blessed enough to have Elder Oaks and Brother Ingram of the Seventy preside at the meetings. I spent last week excited to hear their words and council for our Stake. I mean how often do you get an Apostle in Stake Conference?

Saturday night was the adult session. I hadn't ever even thought about the fact that it was for adults until the day of, when I began having some reservations about taking little miss Chailee. (Looking back, I should have been smart enough to recognize where those feelings were coming from..). I decided it would be silly not to go, but had a plan in mind of how to do it. I would feed Chailee right before, keep my fingers crossed that she didn't get too fussy, and sit in the back near a door just in case. We got to the meeting and my mother in law had saved us seats in the second row. The second row. We don't even sit that close in sacrament. I tried to explain my reservations with sitting that close in an adult meeting with an infant, but it didn't matter. After some guilt from the mom in law I sat down.

The first hour of the meeting was great! Chailee only fussed for a minute, and never too loud. She even slept through the hymns. So Elder Oaks was the last speaker, and as he came to the podium I felt a little wiggle from the bundle in my arms.

Do you see where this is going....

Literally as Elder Oaks began to speak Chailee began to scream. Oh the timing. Rather than wait it out (he's an Apostle for heavens sake, people want to hear EVERYTHING he has to say) we left the chapel. No sooner than I stood up my little bundle stilled and fell right back asleep. I continued to the mothers room to try to feed her but she was out. I could feel my cheeks get hot and tears coming. I had the opportunity to sit at the feet of an Apostle, but instead I was stuck listening through a speaker. I tried to listen and to focus, but I was stuck feeling sorry for myself, and wishing we had just sat in the back like I wanted. Then I could have snuck back in.

I calmed myself down and headed back to the chapel as the meeting ended, making my way back to the front to David. Since Chailee was asleep and we were right up front, we decided to stay and shake Elder Oaks hand. And here's the point to this story.....

As I shook his hand I told him that I had been in the second row, and about how Chailee started crying right as he started to speak! We laughed and I thanked him for the testimony he shared.

He looked at Chailee then at me, and said "Thank you for doing the work of the Lord".

If I have ever been humbled in my life it was then. How could I have been upset over something as trivial as where I was sitting to hear him speak, especially since what I was doing was the work of the Lord. I had lost sight of what I have always known. Mothering is the work of the Lord. Chailee is a child of God. I am so blessed to be her mother. And I'm grateful for every opportunity I have to nurture and provide for her, be it 3:00 a.m., the middle of the day, or during an Apostles talk. I am also thankful for the words of a prophet and the Spirit that can bear witness of truth as we hear it. And most of all I am thankful to be able to do the work of the Lord.

Confession.

2011-01-19T10:41:00.000-08:00

I like bluegrass music.

I've fought this for a while.

I'm kind of a music snob. The kind of person that only likes a band if no one knows about them. As if all of a sudden a band is less cool when more people accept them.

Maybe I'm more of a music hoarder. The kind of person that claims to listen to all kinds of music. "No really I like it all."

But back to the original confession...I like bluegrass music. I've tried to pretend like it's this trendy cool thing to like. I think I've only admitted to enjoying bands and artists that seem a little less bluegrass-y, and are a bit more easily accepted. Allison Krauss. I like her. But who doesn't?

I'm officially confessing the whole truth. I like the banjo-y, twangy stuff. I'm not afraid to admit it anymore. I'm done pretending like I'm a snob or a hoarder. I don't care that it's not trendy.

Bluegrass is where it's at.

Now go listen to The Avett Brothers, and think about what a nerd I am.

One down....4 to go?

2011-01-08T17:13:00.000-08:00

David was pretty nervous for Chailee's blessing. My entire family came into town for the weekend, and all but one of David's brothers were here with their families as well. It was a fabulous day. We all made it to church on time, and sweet little Chailee didn't spit up on her dress at all. She was still and quiet through the beautiful blessing her daddy gave her. It was just a perfect day. We even managed a few family photos between the drizzly weather outside.

After it was all said and done one of the Goode brothers leaned over to David and whispered, "One down, 4 to go".

David's expression was priceless.

Inroducing Chailee Marie Goode

2011-01-08T17:08:00.000-08:00

I'm in Love. Actually we both are. And yes, I eat those cheeks daily. These were taken the day after we came home from the hospital. It's amazing how much she's changed already. Thanks Jess for the beautiful pictures. We treasure them already.

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-31T14:23:00.001-08:00

Having a baby in December set the perfect tone for the month we celebrate the birth of our Savior. Hope you enjoyed the celebration and the season with as much love and admiration as we did.

"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counseller, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6

Reflections

2010-12-12T07:04:00.000-08:00

This video alaways gets me the right kind of ready for Christmas. Enjoy!

Lately.

2010-12-09T08:30:00.000-08:00

I realize that there are few, if any of you, who still follow my little blog here. And that's okay. My 8 month hiatus wasn't something I anticipated returning from to a group of hopeful readers. But in the off chance that any of you are still around, I'm back! And feel the need to catch up on what's been happening around here lately. Because boy, has there been a lot happening! 8 months is a lot to catch up on though and since those of you who are still around are probably a little annoyed, I figure I better not push my luck and expect you to respond to the novel length post that would cover 8ish months of big news. Thus, I have prepared a condensed version.

April: Find out we're pregnant again. And instantly get excited ( and sick).

May- September: Puke, puke, puke. Down 20 lbs. Being pregnant was hard. Thus the 8 month hiatus from the blog-o-sphere. And manage to take only 2 pictures of the pregnant belly.

24 weeks.

30 something weeks?

October: Still pukey, but only in the morning. Super fun Halloween party.

November: Some scary Dr. appointments. Our peanut wasn't growing quite as fast as they wanted. And her Jacuzzi water was a little low. And she was totally breech. Insert an overnighter at the hospital with the possibility of delivering at 35 1/2 weeks. Scary night.

Dodge a bullet and go home for a week of bedrest. Fast forward one week and another scary dr. appointment. Decide no matter what to deliver at 37 weeks.

Fast forward 2 days. Really scary dr. appointment. It's like the plug has been pulled on Peanuts nice Jacuzzi, and it is just about drained. To add to the scariness an hour long NST ( I loathe NST's, talk about uncomfortable and boring) reveals a low energy baby too.

Fast forward 2 hours (past a nervour phone call to daddy who rushes home)- In the hospital awaiting the dr for our emergency c section (dang breech baby).

The last belly picture.

The last pre parenthood picture =)

Fast forward 1 hour: Doctor arrives. Dad has an anxiety attack.

Fast forward 5 minutes: Spinal anesthetic administered. Dad pulls it together. Operation starts.

5 minutes later: A baby squeals, mom cries, dad smiles, and we're in love. A few weeks earlier than we anticipated, but as ready as she needed to be, Chailee was 5 lbs 9 oz, and healthy as can be. She came right to our room, and I've been holding her ever since.

That my friends is the condensed (honestly) version of our year. Now the fun really begins.

Jess

2010-04-16T14:30:00.000-07:00

Is a wonderful mother.

And a smart woman.

And a great sister.

And a wonderful example.

And her kids are pretty stinken cute too.

Patience

2010-04-16T14:14:00.000-07:00

Patience: Good natured tolerance of delay.

Does it really have to be good natured? I've got the tolerance part down. I can tolerate waiting for a lot of things. I tolerate waiting in line at the grocery store. I tolerate waiting for David to stop reading and turn the lights out at night. I tolerate I-10 traffic every morning.

How do you tolerate delay with a good nature? Seriously, I'm asking. And how long must one really be 'patient'. Isn't there a point at which we can say it is unreasonable to be patient anymore, and you are allowed to be a little less 'good natured' as you tolerate?

Or, is saying "Gosh I'm really done waiting" (with a hand on your hip and eye brows up) no longer patient. I guess I've got some re-evaluating to do.

On a lighter note, the crape myrtles are growing again. And though they look slightly ridiculous, huge stumps with tiny little branches sprouting out the tops, they are still alive. Alive and thriving.

Happy Easter!

2010-04-04T07:13:00.000-07:00

Why didn't I think to do faces on my eggs as a child?!

Career Change

2010-04-04T07:06:00.001-07:00

We tried our hands at dirt farming.

But it didn't last long.

Helloooooo new lawn. Please stay a while.

No please, stay a while. We really didn't enjoy dirt farming.

PJ's anyone?

2010-03-21T11:02:00.000-07:00

You know, it's time for some new jammies ....I'm pretty sure from here.

http://www.intlprincess.org/index.php/ipp/content/help/

Thought I'd share just in case your in the market for PJ's too.

2010-03-18T14:52:00.000-07:00

Meet the (older)Moore girls.

They are quite a handful. Well intentioned, but a lot to handle. Some have mistaken their passionate for instability. Others have confused their whit with pride. Most people have misunderstood their humor at some point or another. But their charm ( and cooking- thank you mom) have won the hearts of plenty. These girls are driven. Motivated by a desire to do something bigger, and be something better. It's amazing that a trio of sisters can be so different, and so completely the same too. It took two amazing parents and a village to raise them. The village is now resting.

We haven't been the Moore girls for a while.We became the Engelke and Moore girls in 2004. And the Engelke/Goode/ Moore girls in 2007. And it seems we'll be changing again. The last (older) Moore girl is changing her name too. So we'll be the Engelke/Goode/Singelton girls. But don't worry we'll still be doing what we do. Keeping everyone on their toes, and working towards that 'big' thing. Because you can take the girls out of the Moore, but you can't take the Moore out of the girl. (I had to!).

Congratulations Kaylene.

We sure do love you.

I got one!

2010-03-07T10:58:00.000-08:00

It seems like everyone has there go to recipe site. Or blog. Or whatever. I've tried a few. They hook me in with their beautiful photographs and health promises, so that I'm excited at the idea of seaweed wrapped tofu burgers and celery sticks for dinner. It has never really ended well (just ask David about the spaghetti squash, or the rutabaga), and I've always found myself back in my routine of pasta and chicken variations for dinner.

Until now.

I have found a gem.

A cooking gem.

I'm almost hesitant to share it because I've just fallen in love with it.

I got one.

I found a website.

Every meal I have cooked in the last week has come from this website. I can't get enough of it. This food is good. Seriously good. We're talking David -will -eat- leftovers- good. If you know David you know what a huge deal that is. Here's why I love it:

1. I almost always have all of the recipe ingredients on hand. (No searching for Tamarillos or white zucchini in the produce section).

2. It's husband approved. But it's not unhealthy. I'm beginning 'healthy' is a relative term anyway. I believe that home cooked is better than processed, and therefore more 'healthy'.

3. Pretty pictures still accompany each recipe.

4. The author Ree Drummond is the self titled 'Pioneer Woman'. And she makes it all look so glamorous.

5. It's easy peasy. No 20 step multiple component bologna. Just simple honest recipes.

Look around, I think you'll enjoy. If I may suggest the Drip Beef sandwich recipe, it was a big hit around here. Enjoy, and let me know what you love!

March will be a month...

2010-03-07T10:37:00.000-08:00

A month of

Trying to be more optimistic and less doubtful.

More like my Savior and less like myself.

Trying to love and not judge,

to forgive with out any conditions.

Trying to put important before needless.

March has set itself up to be quite a month. But I'm going to approach it much different than February. February with it's ice and cold was sent away with out any goodbyes from our house. We were glad it left. But March will be different (though it has not entered the way a good visitor should). I'll be more tolerant and patient through it's cold mornings. I may even try to enjoy it. Maybe it's cold beginning will help me enjoy the warmth at the end. Maybe. Probably. I suppose it's my choice really.

So Goode

2010-02-23T15:38:00.000-08:00

I promise I'm not going to post like this again this year.

But I had to.

He is so good.

Good for making me feel special.

Good for taking care of me.

Good for accepting me.

Good for understanding me.

Good for comforting me.

Good for loving me.

This Goode is so Good for me.

What about you all? Who is good for you?

Charity

2010-02-21T11:08:00.000-08:00

I'm trying to remember if as a youth I would have reached out that way. I'd like to think that I would have. I watched this on LDS.org and just loved it. Such a great uplifting story. Thank heaven for good people who provide us all with such great examples of charity and love.

Pruning

2010-02-12T14:15:00.000-08:00

I apologize for the nature of the post that follows. I like to think of myself as an optimistic, and generally cheerful person. So know that this is out of character for me. But we all have moments like this I'm sure. So I guess I'm sorry that my moment finds me here with a blog at me finger tips. Perhaps tomorrow will be a better time to type. But alas here I am. So I will type.

Do some things ever seem unfair? That is a rhetorical question. I think some things aren't fair. And that just kind of (eh hem) sucks. February has been an unfair month. I really kind of wish it would end. The combination of trial and winter is a bad one. Certainly struggles in the summer are easier to bear right? Or even the spring I bet.

Amidst some winter woes and personal struggles I gathered my senses and took myself to church for Young Women's on Wednesday. Heaven knows those girls do much more for me than I for them. I should change that. And do you know what I found at church?

This is bad, especially during winter woes.

They cut back all of the Crape Myrtles that adorn the walks up to the doors on every side of the building. All of the big branches are gone. Left are just the most ridiculous looking stubs of trees. Someone cut the trees back.

They must believe that they'll grow again. I'm going to hold on to the idea that the care taker of the trees expects them to be even more beautiful and strong than they were before. Right? I am going to believe that the trees were cut back for their own good.

But that's still sad. And kind of unfair. Shouldn't there be an easier way to grow? Why must we be knocked down to progress? I wonder if the trees know that it was with love that they were given their new struggle. Does that make it any easier though? If I could I would tell them. That even though this moment (eh hem) sucks, it's going to be worth it sooner or later. Maybe if I told them I could fortify my testimony of purpose in trials as well.

Don't worry I'm not going to talk to the trees. But please, if I do, and you see me, don't judge me. Or tell anyone that I've gone crazy. It's just a moment. And we all have them.

Anniversary 3

2010-01-30T14:58:00.000-08:00

We letterboxed,

and walked ,

and ate our little hearts out

on a cold cloudy blustery day in Savannah.

And here's the pictures to prove it.

There's a letterbox in there!!!

5$ target shoes.

Of all the lovely architecture. This is the building we document.

The letterbox was gone =(

The day was a sharp contrast to the blue sky and mild day we were wed on. But I think I had just as much fun. Who would have thought. Love actually grows.

A Capicity to Create

2010-01-24T10:26:00.000-08:00

I loved this talk when President Uchdtorf gave it. Don't you just instantly recognize it as truth? As someone who has dappled her hands in many projects, and searched for things to be good at creating, I find a lot of peace in the truth that I was "fashioned by an endlessly creative God". Despite how many things I don't excel at creating, the more I rely on the Spirit that greater my 'capacity to create' will be. Last year I tried gardening, and sewing, and baking, and cooking, and even thought I didn't win a prize or set a record, I satisfied part of my desire to create, and to improve.

So on to this year, a new year of creating. What about you. Any creations planned?

Picture Review

2010-01-16T06:30:00.001-08:00

David got his wings.

2010-01-11T17:52:00.000-08:00

Not really, but almost.

For Christmas I sent David up in the air.

On a tiny little plane .

On a windy day.

With a pilot younger than him,

Who said "Dude" a lot.

Only the first was on purpose.

But he went.

And had a blast.

And admitted that he didn't want to be a pilot.

Phew.

Twenty Ten

2010-01-11T17:35:00.000-08:00

Wait. It's 2010?

When did that happen? I'm stuck in December, despite my return to work last week. I keep writing 2009 too. My students are loosing their patience. Today one of them even got his papers ready before we sat down to do our reading lesson so that he could name and date his own score sheet. Kind of sweet I suppose . Who would have thought a group of children with Autism would have to learn to be patient with their teacher?

So since it's already double digits in January, I'll spare you the 2009 review and move on the the twenty ten plans....As soon as I make some. For now, enjoy the pics of our last few weeks, because Christmas came and went without a single picture.

December

2009-12-03T14:57:00.001-08:00

I missed November. Not literally. I was very present for November. I just missed November here. November was very good to us. And now it's December. And we can't hardly stand it! December. Christmas. Our favorite. family. Here is what we plan on doing:

1. Listening to Christmas music every day.

2. Going to a presentation of Handel's Messiah in St. Augustine.

3. Going Christmas crazy with our lights outside (Our neighbors have no idea what's about to happen!)

4. Finding a perfect tree and decorating it while we wear P.J's.

5. Actually sending the 2 years worth of Christmas cards I've accumulated.

6. Enjoying our paper whites in the living room.

7. The First Presidency Christmas devotional.

8. Enjoying Night of Lights in historic St. Augustine.

9. Seeing more of our wonderful families.

10. Making my mom's caramel corn. Yum.

11. Doorbell ditching some deserving people.

12. Reading the Christmas story from the Bible and the Book of Mormon.

13. Seeing the lights and window displays downtown.

14. Planning and throwing the ward Christmas party. (It's going to be GREAT)!

15. Baking up a storm of goodies.

16. Slowing down, amidst all of this list, to catch up with dear friends, and especially family.

Alright guys, if you're still there....What are your plans? Any traditions that you're carrying on? Or anything new you can't wait to do?

Reminders.

2009-10-29T14:54:00.001-07:00

I'm full of reminders. I've started carrying 2 planners. And a notebook to keep up with myself. I have alarms set on my phone for different meetings and places to be. I'm not going to go much deeper into these past few weeks than that. It's been a whole new level of busy around here.

Yesterday however, amidst all of the reminders and alarms and places to be, I got in a quick much needed chat with one of my nieces. My sister in law has just a her fourth little one, and this specific niece I was chatting with has had a difficult time adjusting to life with another baby at home. So I stopped by to spend some time with her. And oh goodness did she have so much to say. And inside of her excited chatter, she taught me quite a lesson. See if you can catch it....

Me: "How's school going? Making any friends?"

Kate: "Oh yes, there is this girl and her name is Tess, well that's not really her name, her name is Tessa, but we call her Tess, and that's okay because my real name is Katherine, but we call me Kate. And she is so nice, and, OH!! Did you know that the 'i' is a letter in the alphabet?! My whole time being little, and I never knew that! (insert little laugh) And Tess is real nice.. (and she continues on for quite a while this way about Tess and school.

REMINDER (to me): There are so many little things to be excited about. So many things to find joy in. 'i' is a letter in the alphabet for heavens sake, and that is exciting!

NC

2009-10-09T14:56:00.000-07:00

Here are some of the highlights from our recent trip to Pittsboro NC. This was my first time spending more than a few hours in NC, and I must say, I loved it. We found a letterbox, enjoyed the wedding of David's older brother Jeff, and his bride Cheryl, and had some time to play in Pittsboro (who was having an art market the day we were there). It was a lot of fun, the pictures don't do it justice!

Playing outside the reception:

The happy couple, David's bro Jeff, and our new sis Cheryl.

Letterboxing with the other Goodes (Allison, Doug, Jonathon, and Jillianne)

Shorter

2009-09-27T14:22:00.000-07:00

And a little blonder.

Dating Dilema

2009-09-18T13:55:00.000-07:00

Okay ladies and gentlemen, I need your help.

We've reached a place in our marriage. I'm happy to be at this point, mind you, because i think it's a wonderful place to be. We are so comfortable that we don't really date. Don't get me wrong, we do everything together. If we're not working, we're together. But it seems harder to date. Does that make sense? This is where you come in....what do you do for dates? I need some fresh ideas. What's your favorite place to go together? Or your favorite thing to do? In Jacksonville, or just in general. Here for example are a few of our go-to's:
St. Augustine- just to walk around, maybe a ghost tour, a walk around the fort, and stops in the galleries around the plaza.
San Marco- the little theatre, and a walk at Landon park.
Home depot- this is a recently acquired favorite! Nothing like dreaming over sinks and washing machines with the one you love =)

Thanks in advance for your ideas!

Lettuce, Lavender, and Beef Stew.

2009-09-12T14:53:00.001-07:00

Don't worry they're not the ingredients to any new culinary creation from my kitchen.
Just the things I'm enjoying today.

I checked lettuce off my grocery list this morning as I walked out of the Home Depot garden center. Maybe it's not quite what I was supposed to get but my little baby lettuce plants look pretty perfect in their new home next to the beets. I've never attempted lettuce before, so I'll be sure to keep you posted on the adventures that are to come. (Oh how I love my simple life).

And the Lavender happened completely by accident. It wasn't on a list or even on my mind until I walked past it in my new most frequented store (see above). I was on my way to the lettuce when a familiar smell reached me. I then, realizing it must have come from one of the plants near by, proceeded to pick up and smell every plant with in 10 feet. A few employees and a bit of a stuffy nose later I found it. Lavender. And I had.to.have.it. Some women swoon after shoes. Some lust after bags. Give me a few minutes in a garden center, and I'll surely find some pot of dirt and a little green sprout to lust after. What can I say? Maybe it's not glamorous, but it's how I roll okay? So a few 10 minutes of rationalizing that lavender was actually a need (to fill in a void left when I'm not in my Grandparents garden and potentially make some soap) I had my second purchase of the day. And now it sits on my porch waiting for me to find it's perfect home.

And now, the beef stew. Which also wasn't planned. It just so happens to be drizzling, and outside has the appearance of chilly air (of course this is a terrible trick, because once you open the door the blast of humidity takes only a few seconds to hit you). But nonetheless, the beef stew is in the crock pot, the rolls are in the oven, and my day feels as full as it can get.

Hope you're enjoying a Saturday full of unplanned goodness,

which after all seems to be the best kind.

Happy Birthday!

2009-09-09T14:26:00.000-07:00

David had a birthday! It was kind of a weekend long celebration, it started at my parents (see above picture), where he had to be the center of attention (which he loves to be so much, again, see above picture) for birthday cake and presents.

We had a special dinner and chocolate cake last night before going out to enjoy the evening at our favorite bookstore. It was so nice here yesterday, I joked that the earth was celebrating David's birthday too. And maybe it was just a coincidence, but really he's something to celebrate.

Mostly because he......

Changes the channel when scary previews come on.

Tells me sweet things when I least expect them.

Washes the dishes, and keeps the floor clean.

Knows me better than anyone.

At my request, makes a meeting place for just in case a monster attacks Jacksonville while we aren't together, AND promises to come find me if I can't get to him (go watch Cloverfield).

Also promises that we'll die at the same time...and that he'll write a book to help me keep my memory when I loose it to dementia (see The Notebook).

Finds the good in everything.

Encourages me on my quest to do something big. And believes that I can.

Laughs at the most inappropriate times.

Happy birthday David. Let's celebrate you more often, it was really fun =)

2009-08-20T14:45:00.000-07:00

School starts Monday.

And I am

NOT

Ready.

The classroom is not set up. My student books are not caught up. I've got loads to do.

But that's not it....

It has been way to much fun to enjoy cooking dinner. I'm afraid I'm going to miss my free time. Time I got to use to play, and visit, and to get started planning our ward Christmas party. I'm not sure I'll ever want to give up mornings at home, and breakfasts with David.

But I am ready to teach. And to learn (patience mostly). I'm ready to serve. Because that, after all is what I do for a living. And you know what....I love my job.

So good bye summer. See you next year.

Wish me luck.

Therapy

2009-08-10T14:27:00.000-07:00

Our garden is blowing up.

There is a cantaloupe vine in our neighbors yard.

The beans are taller than the fence.

The basil is claiming a whole corner.

The carrots look like dill (which is much bigger than carrot tops).

And the cucumbers have been producing for months.

But don't feel too bad for us...we've made pickles (5 jars), and tomato relishes (another 5 masons), and enjoyed little bowls of whatever i picked drizzled with oil or vinegar, or completely bare. I have to say I could get used to this. And the best part is that this is Florida, so I've got all year (basically) to grow.

Next will be the Squash.

And some peas.

And definitely some okra.

There is something so theraputic for me about dirty hands. And seeing something grow. And no one can argue that eating something clean and fresh isn't good for the soul.

Weekend au spectacular

2009-08-02T07:25:00.000-07:00

You MUST start this recipe with a terrible day of work on Friday. Terrible days typically include: grumpy bosses; rained out water days, and subsequently angry children; and in this case a sustained bite (broken skin and all) to an area we'll call my 'lower abdomen', but in reality was in a place I was embarrassed to even show my husband).

Once the terrible work day is over simmer in the car for about the distance to the South Stake center and youth conference '09. By the time you get there you should be able to peel the stress filled day (but not the bite mark) away with little effort.

Add :
a best friend
300 youth
some tunes- in this case "Bad to the bone", and a couple Vanilla Ice classics.
a heaping plate of a taco salad for dinner
an always delightful chat with Major Babe, followed immediately a hug that smells on you all night
and a pinch of an awkward moment when a youth hits on you at the dance.

At this point in the recipe, it's important to make some phone calls, and hurry back to Jacksonville to catch up with it's newest residents and their (and my) fabulous family.

*Keep an eye on the bite- any redness or swelling should be seen by a doctor (don't worry, I skipped this step).

Add:

Olive Garden appetizers
The sweetest niece and nephew you can find
A wonderful father, accompanied by a fabulous sister and brother in law.
And if you have it-another super cute sister and her also super cute roommate.

Let that marinate over night.

Then add:

A perfect morning
Your new favorite arts market (under a bridge)
Turkey sandwiches on croissants
A successful move of two girls things into their 1st apartment
A tearful good bye

Again let it marinate over night, then add:

A cantaloupe from the garden, and dad's oh-so-yummy omelette's
Church in an old ward, filled with old friends.
A baby blessing for the besties firstborn
Fathers blessings, and an apartment dedication
And another tearful goodbye.

*the bite will now be ready to be ignored. Don't worry, the worst part is over.

There it is, my weekend spectacular recipe. What ingredients did you use for yours?

My best friends wedding

2009-07-27T13:51:00.000-07:00

Emily and Micheal were married Saturday in the Orlando temple. It was a gorgeous day! It helps that I absolutely LOVE weddings, and would go to one every weekend if I could, AND that Emily is one of my besties. But even despite my affinity for weddings and Emily, it was just a beautiful day, for a really beautiful couple.

CONGRATULATIONS MR. AND MRS. DICKS!

We love you ,and were so happy to be able to share some of your joy this weekend!

Oh, AND my original bestie took the pictures, and since we hosted her at our house, I got to spend time with her too! Thanks for a fun weekend Lauren! So glad you're close again!!!

Where I am

2009-07-20T16:54:00.000-07:00

Optimistic: A state of having positive beliefs.

cheerfulness, confidence, easiness, elation, encouragement, enthusiasm, exhilaration, rose-colored glasses, good cheer, happiness, hopefulness, idealism, looking on bright side, positivism, , sanguineness, sureness,trust.

I am there.

And plan on staying.

Life is too good. Family is too sweet. Friends are too dear. The plan is too true. And time is too short, to be anywhere else.

So Good

2009-07-08T08:11:00.001-07:00

I heard these guys this morning and thought I'd share. Even if it's not your thing, you've got to admit they're pretty impressive.

Asamblea 5 Minutos

2009-07-07T06:04:00.000-07:00

5 Minutos

10 Minutos

15 Minutos

Asamblea 30 Minutos

Ta-Da!!

So we built a picnic table. David would argue that he built a picnic table, and he would be right I guess. 3 coats of seal later she's ready to be used!

On the verge

2009-07-06T06:12:00.001-07:00

Do you ever get that feeling? Like you are about to do something that will change things? Or that something that was inevitably going to happen is about to happen?

Maybe I just have too much free time these days....

Homes

2009-06-29T06:52:00.000-07:00

I am one blessed girl. I'm back from my trip home, to Palm Bay. And have come to a conclusion. I've been debating, really since we bought the house and moved in about where my home was. I have had a little mental struggle going on.

Palm Bay has been home. My parents home was my home. People who have known me my whole life, streets I knew my way around, a home I always feel myself in, and family quailfied Palm Bay for the title.

But Jacksonville (really Orange Park now) had started to feel more home-y as well. I've been here a while. People are starting to be more familiar, as well as the streets. And I have family here now too. So should Jacksonville be home?

When I was in Palm Bay I called Jacksonville home. When I was in jacksonville I called Palm Bay home. So my trip last week has cleared it all up. Here is my verdict.....

I have a couple 'homes'. I'm blessed enough to have places I can go and feel like I am home. To feel loved and accepted and safe. I have two safe havens. I have to heavens on earth. I'm so blessed! Palm Bay in all of it's glory will always be home. But Jacksonville has earned the title as well. Be it ever so humble there's no place like my homes.

Now for the trip details.....it was a blast!!

Jacob my little brother is no longer little. He is offically taller than me and can pick me up (though he dare not try!).

Kaylene is gettig ready to move to Jacksonville and I'm ready!

Jessica and her family are the cutest. Her little ones are just too much fun and getting bigger every day. She has started making quilts and blankts sets for baby cribs, and they are BEAUTIFUL! I'll post the link when she finally sets her Etsy account up, I've already called dibs on a few sets.

Mom and Dad are great as ever. Anna and Kim are h.i.l.a.r.i.o.u.s. We had a good time at the pool and the beach and letterboxing.

The highlight of the trip may have been Ben and Jerrys. You see my dad has a special kind of love for ice cream. He has a bowl every night before bed. So for fathers day, we put him up for the gallon challenge. 20 scoops of ice cream. 18 toppings. 1 brownie. 4 banannas. Lots of whipped cream. If you can eat it all, you get it free. We all ended up helping, but he gave it a good shot. I'm thinking it should be a new tradition! What do you think?

5 more nights.

2009-06-22T12:59:00.000-07:00

I'm not good at being away from David. And I don't think that makes me silly.

I used to think it was silly when we would go on vacation without my dad during the summer and my mom would call him every morning and every night. I'm happy report that my mom is not crazy for missing out on all of the fun those summers, instead just very much in love with her husband.

I'm going to Palm Bay tonight, and am spending some much needed, long over due time with my parents and siblings for the week. David is staying and working. I'm sure I'll be on the phone, just like my mother used to be, every morning and every night. Wish me luck. 5 more nights away.

I'll report back on my phone usage, and hopefully a weeks worth of summer time fun with the family =)

Oh what do you do in the summer time, when all the world is green?

2009-06-16T06:22:00.000-07:00

Here's what we've been up to:

Girls camp was last week, and it was a blast! I met some great people, and got to know and love the girls I served. I was definitly blessed with a wonderful assistant Camp Crafter (that sounds funny huh!?) who made sure I knew what was going on when I needed to know. This stake is pretty big on traditions, and it could have been much more overwhelming had Miss Danielle not been there! Camp Oleno is beautiful, although I think I could have apprectated it more if the river was swimable =) I'm excited to go back again maybe, a little more prepared, and a little more comfortable. Definitly with another waffle house excursion. Thanks to everyone who helped, see y'all soon hopefully!

Aside from that things have been pretty calm. I'm now enjoying my first summer break since the 8th grade. It kind of works out perfectly with what is going on now for a few of our closest friends. Clif and Britani are expecting their daughter soon, and Steven and Sarah just welcomed their little boy. I've really enjoyed just the few days of being able to lend them a hand. I can only imagine how challenging a new little one is! Both these ladies are great mommies and wonderful women who make it all look so easy. Congratulations girls, David and I are so thankful to be a part of this exciting time for you!!

Aside from the regular day to day my 5 week break will hopefully contain....at least a few pounds of blueberries picked, a week long retreat to Palm Bay, a ward activity, a shower for Emily, another new baby (this time a girl), a visit from Doug and Allison and their little ones, a wonderful 4th of July, at least a couple trips to the beach, a refinished dresser, a painted bathroom, a trip to the cannery, a few jars of jam, an apartment hunt for Kaylene, and maybe some homemade ice cream...

What about you all? Any summer plans?

23

2009-05-23T06:32:00.000-07:00

Funny story: I forgot how old I was turning this year. I couldn't remember if I would be 22 or 23. I had to ask David after almost an entire afternoon of deliberating. I talked with my mom about this. Her first response was "you know, they say that is a sign of dementia". Wonderful! We joked for a little bit, and she informed me that she always forgets how old she is. The older she gets the less likely she is to remember. Age just stops being important at some point. Okay, but I'm not that old. 23 isn't old. Especially when you still feel 14, maybe 16 on a mature day. Maybe I'm at the point where age doesn't matter? I guess I could be. Its been a full 23 years.

18 years of education.(Including a few especially rough one's in the middle years, heaven help middle schoolers).

4 years of seminary.

I've lived in a whopping 3 cities.

I fell in love.

I've learned to ride, to play the flute, to share, to match my clothes, to do my hair, to plant, to forgive, to teach, to want, to sing, to grow, to change.

I've enjoyed friends, and the temple, and fairy wands.

I've remembered my Big Brother, and my Father.

23 years of laughing with my sisters, and hugs from my mom. 23 years to learn how to love.

23 years to learn how to cook.

In 23 years I've discovered I love to sing, and to see people smile.

In 23 years I've figured out how far from perfect I am, and how okay that is.

I suppose another 23 years will go this quickly too. Maybe I'll feel 23 instead of 14 when it happens. Maybe we'll do another list then. So wish me luck, I'm off again. Here I come 46! See ya in a bit...

Kings of Leon

2009-05-15T15:10:00.000-07:00

My new favorite. Thanks to David who randomly decides to 'find new music'. I'm not complaining. I love music. Most any kind. And finding a new musician to appreciate is always great! So we went to see them in St. Augustine, at the ampitheatre, and had a blast. 3rd row. practicly on the floor. So fun. So nice. So good that I'm going to share it. I don't usually do this. Im kind of a music snob who keeps her music all to her selfish self. But this is actually that good. Don't worry, I know this kind of music isn't everyone's thing. That's okay, it won't hurt my feelings. I just thought I'd try because maybe you'll like it? And then wah-la! I've shared something I'm starting to love with you!

White dress number 2

2009-05-15T14:54:00.000-07:00

Things have been great in this Goode household. Busy, mostly just with life things. But a few wonderful fun things too. Anna and Kimberly got baptised. It was wonderful. David and K.C. spoke, and Dad preformed the ordinances. I'm not sure when they got so big. Or if I'm okay with them growing up yet. But we sure do love these sweet silly smart little girls. If you could meet them, you would most definitely agree that there is nothing better than two matching toothless grins. Or two pretty white dresses. It was a great day, now if I could figure out how to keep them 8....

They all shall sweetly obey thy will

2009-04-20T18:27:00.001-07:00

The winds and the waves shall obey thy will, peace be still.

Whether the winds of a STORM tossed sea, or DEAMONS, or MEN, or whatever it be.

No waters can swallow the ship where lies, the Master of ocean and earth and skies.

They all shall sweetly obey thy will, peace be still.

They all shall sweetly obey they will,

PEACE BE STILL.

I love this hymn. Especially the chorus. I can always use a reminder, especially lately, as my hope in the world, and people, and goodness faulters, that I know who is really in control.

I love this print. Hopefully I'll get it to add to our picture wall.... It's from an artisit listed on Etsy. I was going to post a link, but my computer is being funny, so I'll add it to another post later.

Who wouldn't love..

2009-04-09T14:08:00.000-07:00

..cream cheese, butter, and chocolate?

Nobody I know, that's for sure.

These were the best cookies I've ever made:

1/4 cup butter
8 oz. cream cheese
1 egg yolk
1/4 tsp vanilla
1 box cake mix (white/butter/chocolate/whatever floats your boat)

375 degrees for 10 minutes.

Yum-o. Serious Yum-o. Let me know if you try them...

2009-04-07T14:17:00.000-07:00

1 new garden sown.

8 different guests we wish could have stayed longer.

4 of my favorite little ones. With 2 toothless 7 year old grins.

1 wonderful patient loving husband.

1 trip to the beach.

12 hours on I-95.

A box of Idaho Spuds (no, they are probably not what you're thinking).

A few hundred handfuls of hugs and kisses.

Accompanied by loads of laughter and sweet little giggles.

1 brother who's voice is way to deep all of a sudden.

A million minutes in the sweet sweet sunshine.

3 quiet evenings talking life with a best friend.

1 bouquet of gardenias from the yard.

1 visit from 2 people we really should have seen sooner.

3 jars of grams tomato relish.

1 jar of the same wonderful woman's raspberry jam.

2 trips to my favorite part of Jacksonville.

1 bag of sage brush smuggled by a thoughtful cousin.

1 pirated movie.

2 batches of cookies.

A handful of up with the sun mornings.

And 0 pictures to document it.

(Good thing Jess took a few)

That's what the best SPRING BREAKS are made of.

Now if only summer was here.....

Kingsley Plantation

2009-03-23T14:27:00.001-07:00

Alright, so these are from a while ago, but I just found them and they made me smile. Just some pictures from Kaylenes visit in January and our trip to the Kingsley Plantation. The little tree was hilarious to me. I made them take a picture with it =)

More pictures of what we've been up to coming soon. And get excited people, because we've been busy!

Confession

2009-03-10T14:19:00.000-07:00

Meet my addiction. Samoas. If you've not yet experienced this particular brand of girl scout cookie, spare yourself the trouble. Because you'll never go back. I'll never enjoy a thin mint the way I did before, no, now all I can think about is samoas. Their chocolate crispy cookies covered in coconut and drizzled with chocolate. I may have a problem people.

Which is your favorite cookie? Maybe it can ween me off my addiction.

It doesn't have to be a girl scout either...

Today.

2009-03-07T17:26:00.001-08:00

We went here.

And I can't wait to go back.

Associations

2009-02-25T14:05:00.000-08:00

A friend posted this earlier this week: Comment on this post and I will give you 5 subjects/things I associate with you. Then post this in your blog and elaborate on the subjects given.

To which I responded: 'Ohhh, this sounds like fun!!"

So here it is my elaborations on the subjects Amanda associates with me:

1. "It makes a comeback"
Some simple words of wisdom given by me to Amanda in discussion at her lingerie shower regarding why lingerie is always fun. I think most women have had this experience as well. Lingerie was ridiculously fun at first. It gets old, all of the straps and laces and wire. But eventually does come back again. And the cycle continues. Sorry if that just made you blush, I should have warned you before I wrote that. Now you know, lingerie use has a cycle in our house.

2. Princess Lea
Ahh, a common thread between any woman who has married a man at all interested in science fiction, and therefore Star Wars. She is the woman we will all always compete with. The good news Amanda is that there are companies who sell costumes, and your hair is brown...

3. Antiques
I'm not really sure why Amanda picked this one. But I'm happy with it. I hope people associate me with beautiful, timeless treasures. I do love antiques, really anything old, not necessarily of any particular value. I just love things with a story, even if I have to make it up.
I think that's how I want to be remembered one day...beautiful, classic/timeless, a treasure with a story.

4. Totinos Pizza (for David)
To all the women who fed my husband before I came around I owe a sincere thank you. Even if it was just by stocking your freezer with his still favorite indulgence, .99 frozen pizzas. I owe you. So feel free to stop by, I can hook you up with a meal slightly more yummy than Totinos.

5. Late night girl talk with Jac:
Probably one of the more fun slightly serious conversations I've ever had with girl friends. I think that it's interesting how we become friends with people, don't you? It really only takes the slightest common thread to spark a wonderful friendship. Before you know it you're talking about all kinds of things! And it's funny too how many things we all have in common. Wouldn't it be interesting if we could sit down for late night chats with people we wouldn't necessarily seek out as friends? I think we'd all be a little more happy.

Okay, that was fun!!

Don't you want to do it?

Go ahead and post a comment, and I'll think of things/subjects that I associate with you. And just for kicks, what are some of your associations with me? (Don't worry I won't elaborate on any more of them...unless I need too!)

Home sick.

2009-02-19T14:28:00.000-08:00

Parents: 1. Plural of parent; one's father and mother. 2.The two persons from whom I am immediately descended from. 3. The two people who taught me that love is better than money. 4. The people who taught me to love outside, and books, and music, and the Gospel. 5. The people who were 'green' before it was the trendy thing to do. 6. The two who embraced and loved me despite, maybe because of, my inability to keep emotions out of decisions. 7. The ones who gave me my brown hair even though I desperately wanted red. 8. The ones I am trying to make proud. 9. My biggest cheerleaders.

Just a little home sick today. And definitely ready to hang out with these guys again.

Love

2009-02-14T07:25:00.001-08:00

Happy Valentines Day.

Isn't this picture pretty?

See more lovie dovey pics by Irene Suchocki's, and check out her other Valentines prints. They're just as lovely!

Let's see who's reading...

2009-02-13T18:03:00.000-08:00

The first five people to comment on this post will get something made by me! My choice. For you. This offer does have some restrictions and limitations:

1. I make no guarantees that you will like what I make!
2. What I create will be just for you.
3. It'll be done this year (hopefully sooner than later.)
4. You will have no clue what it is going to be.5. I reserve the right to do something extremely strange.

The catch? Oh the catch is that you must re-post this on your blog. The first 5 people to do so and leave a comment telling me you did will win a marvelous homemade gift by me!On your mark....Get Set........GO!!!

=)

My Great Green Dream

2009-02-07T09:21:00.000-08:00

Alright first off, thanks to Miss Mary an old friend and incredible talented lady whose recent post on Olivet has had me thinking about my own efforts to be a little greener.

We all know how I feel about growing your own food, and how excited I am to be able to try my own little green thumb out this year. High on my post moving in agenda list was to get a soil sample in to the local Ag extension office to figure out what kind of soil we're working with over here in Orange Park. (You can do the same by finding your local UF/IFAS extension office here). I'm pretty excited people, and expecting to be able to have at least a few meals supplemented with some home-grown-goodness this year! Don't worry we'll try to share =)

Anyways, recognizing that it may take a while to be able to partake of my un-planted gardens goodness, I was really excited to find, via Olivet, this directory of local farms, farmers markets, and otherwise locally grown food in our area. Go check out Local Harvest, and give my a call if you want to join in on my farmers markets visits this month!

Another great resource to eating, and loving a more healthy lifestyle is Sustainable Table, that offers shopping guides, meal ideas and recipes, as well as tips and pointers on how to support local sustainable produce. I'm really excited about exploring this one!

I'm not trying to be on any kind of soap box here guys, just really excited about eating a little better, and supporting our local economy more this year!

Is it spring time yet?

2009-02-03T17:13:00.001-08:00

I get really restless for spring and warmth and green right about now every year......

Two Years Later

2009-01-27T14:05:00.000-08:00

He's a gentleman that still opens doors, and holds my hand.

He has excellent taste in music.

He could name the artist of any eighties song.

He's got a photographic memory that gives him quite an unfair advantage over me most of the time, especially in scripture studies.

He eats his cereal with milk on the side.

He looks great with a Mohawk, but only wears one in the morning.

He has an infectious laugh that he doesn't share with everyone.

He is remarkably intelligent.

People could use the words honest, and integrity in the same sentence with his name, and really really mean it.

He is a wonderful provider in all kinds of ways.

He's quite the handyman.

He inspects and double checks everything he does, and everywhere he goes.

He learns incredibly fast.

He is good at forgiving.

He is my best friend.

My loyal companion.

My love.

My husband.

Sweet Land of Liberty

2009-01-20T17:49:00.000-08:00

Let freedom ring.

Is anyone else feeling a little bit Patriotic?

This will make all the difference.

2009-01-09T11:12:00.001-08:00

Do you remember high school English class? I loved English, especially my senior year. I'm pretty sure that's when I was introduced to Robert Frost. Now really this poem didn't have a tremendous impact on my life, as a matter of fact, I read it with as much interest as I read most poems. I'm much more of a short story girl you see. The poem well, it just couldn't ever manage to find it's way out of my head. And the most random moments in my life I will think of this poem (and the picture that went with it in our text book). Not when it would really work, like say when I was choosing a school to attend, or a major concentration for college, or where to move. No instead I would think of it while watching a Jag game, or during the scary part of a movie, sometimes when I'm brushing my teeth in the morning (actually quite a few times then). If you know me, and my sometimes very lacking memory you'll remember that it took my a year to remember David's birthday, and that I have the most detailed planner ever so as not to forget anything. You'll also remember that I have lists everywhere in my house, because if I don't write things down they won't last longer than a few hours. But this poem, this poem has never gone anywhere. I can't manage to remember packing tape in 4 visits to Walgreen's (one visit specifically for packing tape), but I can remember a poem I read in 12th grade from a literature text book, as well as visualize the picture that went with it.

So what am I talking about? I'm not asking for sympathy, or a diagnosis to my forgetfulness. It is just that recently during what I assumed was another sporadic pop back to Robert Frost in 12th grade... the poem actually applied. Actually, it applies very well to a lot of things in my life at this very moment. There are a few things on our plate that require some thoughts and serious intersection, and during one of my more thoughtful moments it came. And you know, it was so perfect it almost made me misty. Oh inspiration. This is huge. Does this mean I can stop my escapades with Robert? Is this why I've remembered it? Just in case this is the end of Robert and I, I need to document it. This moment, this year, this is exactly what I need to remember.

The Road Not Taken

Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveler, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth;

Then took the other, as just as fair,
And having perhaps the better claim,
Because it was grassy and wanted wear;
Though as for that the passing there
Had worn them really about the same,

And both that morning equally lay
In leaves no step had trodden black.
Oh, I kept the first for another day!
Yet knowing how way leads on to way,
I doubted if I should ever come back.

I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.

Not quite the picture that I remember, but it works I think.

2009, Meet the Goodes.

2009-01-04T14:46:00.001-08:00

So far we're getting along very well with the new year, and the new year with us. But to catch up first on some other things:

Christmas was lovely. We stayed here in Jacksonville and had Christmas as a Goode family. Im sorry to report that pictures are not a particularly high priority in the Goode family. Maybe because of the 6 boys, Im not really sure. So there are no pictures to show. Just know that we were happy, surrounded by our family (all of David's brothers made it home this year) and really enjoyed our holiday. David's oldest brother, Doug, and his wife and two adorable children were in town for the whole week. We spent a bit of time with them. Don't tell them, but we're secretly hoping that Louisianna falls into the ocean so they have to move back here!

So 2009: We have offically closed on our house, and the preperations for moving are underway. Painting, cleaning, changing, packing, moving and all of those joys are upon us. And I couldn't be more excited! We have waited a fair amount of time for all of this to begin! Again, with the whirlwind of activities around us, pictures aren't really happening. Although we did document the painting in the dark that happened last night. (pictures and explination coming soon).

We have started going to our new ward, which we both love! David's mother and a few of our old friends attend there, and it is already starting to feel like home.

Kaylene came to visit. And left just as quickly, but it was nice to have her. She painted a room at the house for her keep. Thanks Kaylene! My olive gray green tannish front room is my favorite so far!

Hope everyone has had a wonderful holiday, and a great start to 2009. I've started working on my resolutions...more info and perhaps pictures to come...

What about you all? Any resolutions?

I thought a sunrise picture would be particularly appropriate for this time of year.

Resolution #1: See more of these live.

What can we say? We're excited for Christmas!!

2008-12-17T15:58:00.001-08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Reflections on the Savior

2008-12-16T09:20:00.000-08:00

In the spirit of Christmas, this fits so well. Thanks to a good friend for sharing, and blessing a part of my day with inspiration and clarity.

Turn your volume up, and enjoy.

http://www.reflectionsmg.com/reflections-of-christ-videos.php

Let me know what you think. What better time of the year to reflect on our Savior and his life?

Merry Christmas.

Wherever you go, go with all your heart. ~Confucius

2008-12-15T09:40:00.000-08:00

So it came,

and it went,

And now it all really begins.

The tassel's worth the hassle

2008-12-12T06:57:00.000-08:00

You have brains in your head.

You have feet in your shoes.

You can steer yourself in any direction you choose.

You're on your own.And you know what you know.

You are the guy who'll decide where to go.

~Dr. Seuss

------------------------------------------

Today is GRADUATION DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Give me a minute to be excited!!!! (insert awkward victory dance here)!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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Gown ironed, family commuting to town, tickets arranged, reservations for dinner done, watch out y'all 'cause I'm about to graduate!

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Pictures to follow.....

Christmas is coming!

2008-12-09T06:48:00.000-08:00

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Wrapping paper, definitly paper. It just feels more like Christmas to unwrap a present. Gift bags are for birthdays.

2. Real tree or artificial? Real. I've never had to cope with a fake tree, and thankfully David won't make me!

3. When do you put up the tree? Yesterday for fhe. So I guess around the 8th of December.

4. Do you like eggnog? Yes please!!

5. Favorite gift received as a child? Christmas when I was 6 or 7, our parents hid my sister and I's toys in a barbie tent in the kitchen. We woke up and didn't have any presents under the tree, I think just the trauma from not having presents at first made everything we got that much better!

6. Hardest person to buy for? If it's not David then it's definitely any of the other Goode boys. They are nearly impossible!

7. Easiest person to buy for? Anna and Kim. Children are much much easier to buy for.

8. Do you have a nativity scene? Yes! Thank you Maggie! I've been hunting for one that I liked ever since we were married. Maggie (my darling sister in law) made me one that I LOVE at her wards super Saturday. So YES! we finally have a nativity.

9. Mail or e-mail Christmas cards? Mail. Duh.

10. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? I'm not sure.

11. Favorite Christmas movie? Elf (Does it have sugar in it? Then Yes!) Rudolf, and The Christmas Story.

12. When do you start shopping? November I start planning, and mid-way buying.

13. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Probably......

14. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Grams toffee bars, Shortbread cookie balls, and layer cookies. Sweets apparently.

15. Lights on the tree? Do people not pout lights on their trees? I say the more the merrier.

16. Favorite Christmas song? O Holy Night. Preferable sung by Sis. Mazarra. And anything from Handel's 'Messiah'.

17. Travel at Christmas or stay home? This year we're home. Next year we'll travel, and so on and so forth.
18. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer? Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen, but do you recall? The most famous reindeer of all? Rudolf!

19. Angel on the tree top or a star? Star. As a child we always had the pointy ball looking thing though.

20. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? One present each on Christmas Eve; the rest the next morning

21. Most annoying thing about this time of the year? That it ends.

22. Favorite for Christmas dinner? Ham, sweet potatoes, and some sort of bread.

23. What do you want for Christmas this year? A few things....

Thanksgiving and Home

2008-11-29T19:50:00.000-08:00

We just got back from our Thanksgiving in Palm Bay. It was a wonderful few days that we were sad to see end. It's always good to be able to go back and be reminded of the lessons we have learned. That dirt doesn't hurt; that you can get sunburned when it's 65 degrees outside; 7 year olds are the sweetest; that homemade is always better than store bought; that I want to be like my mother; and that no matter what I do or where I go I have an amazing family of wonderful people that will always love me. Lessons that have already been learned, it's just nice to have reminders sometimes.

From shadow puppets outside, and moms garden, to our Saturday picnic (see above), here are some glimpses of our weekend:

#23-30

2008-11-26T06:29:00.000-08:00

23. Sisters
24. Hootenanny's
25. Education
26. Employment
27. Oak Trees
28. Florida weather
29. Relief Society

So at first this '30 days of thankful' was a little awkward. Besides the generic things it was difficult in the beginning to identify the little, less obvious blessings that we have in our lives. The awkwardness quickly passed though, and I am happy to report that today's post took approximatly 1 minute (and that was mostly because of my typing deficit). Our lives are so blessed. It is really kind of sad that it took us literally 'counting our blessings' to begin to understand HOW many blessings we have in our lives. So this brings me to my final number, not that I couldn't keep going, because I definitely could. It's just '30 days of thankful' wouldn't be very honest if it went on into the bazillions.

30. I am so thankful for a loving Father in Heaven who sees fit to fill our lives with so many blessings. All we have to do is try to do what's right, and he answers with an outpouring of blessing that make our lives so much easier.

Hopefully with this lesson learned, and a little more fully understood, we'll be able to notice more often all of the things that we have to be thankful for.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Love,

The Goodes

#17-22

2008-11-22T06:40:00.000-08:00

17. Cold weather
18. Institute
19. Jacksonville
20. Cars
21. Personal revelation
22.Washing Machines

2008-11-22T06:22:00.000-08:00

I was tagged by Nicole

6 UnSpEcTaUlAr QuIrKs

1. I don't eat pizza rolls whole. I really don't eat any 'bite size' thing (candy bars, pizza rolls, mini quiches) whole. Are my bites too small, or the worlds too big? Im not really sure...

2. I make a wreath for every holiday/season. Naked doors are kind of sad.

3. I brush my teeth as soon as I wake up in the mornings, and then again after I eat breakfast. My morning routine is actually quite rigid!

4. I have patience to teach children with disabilities how to read, but not enough patience to sit through one traffic light cycle.

5. I would rather be 40 minutes early than 1 minute late. (Everyone from church just laughed out loud, but I swear our tardiness is all David!!) When Im going to a place (class, school, someones house, church) I plan to leave at least 1/2 hour before Im supposed to be there...being late stresses me out.

6. I love going places, but hate to drive. Roadtrips and new places are my absolute favorite! Good thing my hubby doesn't mind driving =)

I TAG: Jac, Brittany, Carrie, Jenilee, Stephanie, and Lisa. Have fun ladies!

Here are the rules: 1.Link to the person who tagged you and comment in the comment section on their original "quirk" post 2.Mention the rules on your blog 3.Tell 6 unspectacular quirks about you 4. tag 6 bloggers (or more!) by linking to them.

Christmas is coming...

2008-11-16T12:19:00.000-08:00

And I'm getting excited. Lucky for me I have friends who are just as Christmas crazy as I am. This past week we got together and look what we did..

Christmas
Present Trees
2008

#6 through #16

2008-11-16T06:28:00.000-08:00

Well, this has not worked out quite like I thought it would. I think when I planned '30 days of thankful', in my mind I would post every night, reflecting on something that I was really thankful for that day. WhatI failed to remember was that I would have to fit blogging in second to: finishing a portfolio, a class of 44 students, an observation by a pricnipal, a visit from a supervisor, appplying for a job, signing up for certification exams, attending intern seminars, a young womens annual planning retreat (which involved LOTS of planning and prepration), a husband who has been seriously neglected, maintaining a clean living space, grocery shopping, finding a home inspector and scheduling an inspection, a few drives down to Middleburg to sign the never ending amount of paperwork for the house, attempting to begin packing a very unorganized apartment, keeping in touch with family, applying for graduation, the start of Top Chef, a long over due girls night, furniture shopping, showering, eating, and if there's time sleeping, AND starting to prepare for Christmas.

Needless to say, I've been a little pressed for time these days. So my '30 Days of Thankful' is going to be a little different than intended. So here it is, my attempt to catch up and reflect on the good things in my life. After all it's still November, and heaven knows I've still got a lot to be thankful for.

The list began with :

1. The gospel
2. Music
3. David
4. Democracy

and continues with Daivd's input to include:

5. Monty. He's one crazy cat
6. Our health
7. Holidays. Don't let dabid fool you, he loves the decorating that comes with each one.
8. Weekends. Especially Stake conference ones.
9. Good books. And with that the library.
10. Our big ol' family and all their support and silliness.
11. Fall time/seasons
12. La Napolera
13. Chinese food
14. Pickels
15. Target. Because without them we'd be forced to shop at Wal Mart for everything.
16. Employment. We've had some jobs let me tell you, but at this point we're both enjoying what we're doing. And that is something to be thankful for!

Now, lets see how the rest of the month goes....

#4: Democracy

2008-11-04T18:49:00.000-08:00

At least I think I am =). There was something so invigorating about going to the polls to vote. I am thankful to live in a country where i count, and my opinion matters. I am thankful for The United States of America, and the great country it is.

# 3: David

2008-11-03T17:10:00.000-08:00

I decided yesterday that I wasn't going to put David high on my list. I really don't like it when people get all mushy gooshy about how perfect their marriages and spouses are, so to save everyone else the gag factor, I decided that I wouldn't put David too high on my list. This is what I get.

You know it's bad when you are already dreading the planning retreat that is two weeks away and spending one night 5 minutes down the raod away from him. Or when the first thought you tend to have about things during the day is "I wonder what David would think", or "I wonder what he would say" (because it'll probably be something hilarious and wonderful). OR when you prefer a night sitting on the couch doing absolutly nothing with him there to a night out with the girls. Im not really sure when it got this bad. Or when I decided that David may actually be the greatest husband in the world (go ahead and argue with me, I have data to support this), and the smartest most wonderful man EVER. But it has happened. And holy guacamole am I ever so grateful for him. For our marriage in the temple. For the way I feel when I'm with him. For the peaceful quiet and stillness he brings into my c.r.a.z.y. life. For his sense of humor, and his understanding of mine (not many people get me). For his love of the jaguars, and hate of seafood. For his understanding of the gospel, and his desire to live it.

I am thankful for David.

2008-11-02T19:32:00.000-08:00

NOVEMBER

Sacrament meeting today was really great in our ward. Sister Caruso, the ward chorister and my Visting Teacher, mentioned in her testimony how much she enjoys November. She talked about how she tries to spend time each day thinking about things she is thankful for. It sounded a little like a challenge to me, and so with out further adu.....

30 days of thankful begins!

I'll really try to keep up with this, if I miss a day, I'll do my best to make up for it. My goal here is to find at least one thing every day that I am thankful for. I don't anticipate it being difficult, I know that my life is full of blessings. I just think it will be good to really focus on the good things in my life, and to reflect on how truely blessed I am.

So......

1. The Gospel.

Tonight David and I got to go to a CES broadcast in the Mandarin bldg. There is something about broadcasts, and hearing a General Authority speak, that renews my testimony of the restored gospel. I am so thankful for the knowledge I have of the gospel, and the peace and joy I have in my life because of it.

2. Music.

I love music. I'm pretty sure I am part music. Music is my color. It completes me (thank you for the line Tom Cruise). I am thankful for music. For good music that matches my many moods, that inspires me, uplifts me, encourages me, moves me, motivates me, reminds me. I am thankful for music.

2008-10-26T10:22:00.000-07:00

HaLlOwEeN PaRtY

Last night. At the Trunks. Brittani, Jac, and I planned our little hearts out, and successfully threw the best halloween par-tay ever. At least I thought it was. Lots of food, and lots of good friends, and some super scary decorations curtosy of Jac's shopaholisim. so here are the pictures, though they don't really do it justice. David and I are Mario and Princess Toadstool, an ode to Super Mario b]=Brothers. Clif and Brittani were Luigi and Princess Daisy. Between the four of us, and Adam (who game dressed as 'gamer') we had a complete vidoe game tribute going!

Be it ever so humble

2008-10-23T18:16:00.000-07:00

Be it ever so humble,

As some of you know we've been looking for a house in clay county for the past little while. We've looked everywhere, and even had a contract with a builder in a neighborhood in southern Orange Park. Nothing has worked like we thought it would, and we've really gotten our hopes up for a lot of different things just to be disappointed. Our last experience we made an offer on a house that we truely did love. The location (at the front of Argyle) was great, the lay out was lovely, and the yard was a BIG blank slate waiting for me to create something beautiful. So we made the offer (actually above what was being asked) and the waiting game started. We waited 2 weeks, anxiously calling our realtor every day just to have him say that there was still no news. I had all but given up, and we had made appointments to see some other places when we got the call. And much to our surprise it was eactly what we wanted to hear! The bank accepted our offer, and we are set to close (pending a good home inspection) on November 16th! We're so excited, and couldnt be more happy with the way things have worked out!

Lesson learned: As hard as it can be to want something and not get it, there is always a reason. We've been able to see the hand of the Lord in our lives as we've sought after things that weren't quite what we needed. Even if the inspection fails and we end up somewhere else in the end, I know that it will be the right place for us.

So here we go, it should be an exciting month. Home inspections, WDO's, closings, and then all of the things we want to do to the house. Wish us luck!

There's no place like home.

2008-10-16T13:26:00.000-07:00

I am: Heather Elizabeth Goode

I know: families can be together forever.
I want: peace.
I have: a million other things I should be doing right now.
I dislike: judgmental people.
I miss: the barn, pine cone wars, and mud baths.
I feel: blessed, very, very blessed.
I hear: kids outside on the playground.
I smell: cinnimon oil on the pinecones.
I crave: grams tomato relish on roast beef.
I cry: when other people cry.
I search: the scriptures.
I wonder: what our kids will look like, and if they'll like me.
I regret: hurting peoples feelings.
I love: music. and David. especially music with David.
I care: what other people are feeling.
I worry: about my family.
I remember: when we met.
I believe: in people. all kinds of people.
I dance: when I sing. which is all the time.
I don't: like my car.
I argue: when it matters.
I write: every night.
I win: everytime I want to.
I lose: the rest of the time.
I wish: the world was nicer. kinder.
I listen: to anyone who wants to talk. and lots of music.
I can usually be found: with children.
I am scared: to death of the dark.
I need: a haircut.
I forget: how wonderful my life is.
I am happy: period.

That was way too much fun!

2008-10-10T13:19:00.000-07:00

"It is one of the

blessings

old friends

that you can

afford to be

stupid

with them."
- Ralph Waldo Emerson

The past weeks events (none of huge consequence, mostly just everyday happenings that for whatever reason I paid a little more attention to) have led to some rather serious reflections on the people I choose to associate with. These reflections have led to one big conclusion: it turns out I have great associations, and quite a bit to be greatful for by way of those who provide me commradory.

So here it is...an ode to friends, a special shout out, a deep thank you to those whom I call

FRIEND.

Top seven reasons I love my friends:
1. Laughter. All of the ridiculous laughter.

2. 6 am, grape eating crabs, and a life guard stand (if it dosn't apply move on to number three).

3. For indulging me as I discuss the horrors of politics, and my anger with the world. (I can't imagine how old it gets listening to me, but you all do it so well anyways =))

4. For seeing past my sometimes social awkwardness, and all of my many shortcomings to enjoy my company anyways.

5. For supporting me in my quest to try everything dipped in chocholate.

6. For enjoying everything dipped in chocholate with me.

7. For being such plesant and wonderful reminders of so many principles of the gospel (charity, kindness, patience, faith), and really motivatiog me to be a better person.

"Friendship is the only cement that will ever hold the world together"

- Woodrow Wilson

OCTOBER!!!

2008-10-02T14:43:00.001-07:00

It has been a beautiful day here in Jakcsonville, and you just can't help but be excited that it's fall! The air is a little (stress LITTLE) bit cooler, the trees are just starting to looses their lush green-ness, and soon it'll be a full blown Florida fall! WOOOO!

David and I are on our way out the door to enjoy the fallish weather in a game of tennis. Really what we do can hardly be considered tennis, and be too impressed thinking we're athleticly inclined. Anybody who knows anything about tennis would be embarresed to watch us hit the ball around on the court =) The few times I manage to send it back over the net to David it is either so high that you loose it in the glare of the lights, or it interupts the game on the adjacent court. But what can you do? It's always good to laugh, and we have fun. It's just another testament to my theory that he and I were clearly ment for eachother!

Just practicing...

2008-10-01T17:52:00.000-07:00

Really just want to see what things look like posted =) Excuse me while I practice play...

Celebrate Goode Times!

2008-10-01T14:50:00.000-07:00

Okay, so maybe that's a little cheesy, but Im kind of excited to get started here! This is really just a trial post (it's my first time you know) so I'm going to keep it short. A special shout out to Mrs. Seizmore, she is absolutly my inspiration to do this! Just go look at her super cute blog, and you'll understand =). So here we go....Im offically blogging!