Day 230: Visiting family in NYC!

"In every conceivable manner, the family is link to our past, bridge to our future" - Alex Haley

Project 365: #230

One of the exciting things about living here is the proximity to NYC, and the fact that we have family living there! So, we set off on an expedition, which I was a bit anxious about, but turned out to be really easy. The traffic kindly played along, and it took a little over an hour to get there, even over the two-tiered George Washington Bridge (not unlike the time for our PE-Grahamstown trip in SA to visit family). We spent an awesome afternoon and evening with Mike's cousin Jocelyn, Pete and the boys, and were treated to an awesome tour of Flushing and delicious Chinese food. The best was just spending time with family, and knowing they are so nearby. We are the world's worst at keeping in touch, but there is something about family bonds, that no matter the time, we are linked through a history that cannot be changed. It is awesome to know that we can just be there for each other. May knowing and understanding the importance of family be the bridge to our children's future.

Day 229: Sheep in the field

"Living in a rural setting exposes you to so many marvelous things - the natural world and the particular texture of small-town life, and the exhilarating experience of open space" - Susan Orlean

Project 365: #229

On my run in the mist this morning, this was my view - sheep in the field. What is so amazing about this I hear you ask. Well, this was on Main Street, Mendham, directly next to the school. Yup, we pretty much live in rural NJ! Close to the natural world, with deer wandering through the garden, squirrels playing in the trees, large birds of prey forever circling overhead. There is something to be said for small-town life, a simplicity and pleasure. The open space is exhilarating, it makes you feel grateful to be alive.

 

Day 228: Grateful hearts

 "Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings" - William Arthur Ward

Project 365: #228

Our first Thanksgiving in the US! This journey has not been easy, transitioning schools, friends, cultures, lifestyles,  but yet we have much to be grateful for. We have a comfortable home, delicious food to eat, clothes to keep us warm, and the love of family of friends. We have much in abundance. To celebrate we prepared the traditional turkey and sides, with a few home favorites like Grandpa's stuffing and Granny's apple-pud! May we always find joy in everything, and see blessings in ordinary opportunities.

Day 227: Postvan

"The Postal Service delivers mail six days a week to nearly 140 million addresses. Every year this number increases by 2 million" - Joe Baca

Project 365: #227

I am grateful everyday for services that work efficiently here such as the US postal service, with post delivered to our box, and taken from our box when stamped, so actually I don't have to go to the post office too often. If the post is too big for the box then it is delivered to your front door. Unbelievable. I do wonder if the locals are aware of the privilege of this service, and how efficiently it actually runs. I know it is hard-earned taxes that provide this service, but it is still amazing. I have posted my Christmas cards back home, and am holding thumbs they will be there before Christmas....not putting any money on it though! I am certainly not sending anything valuable as it just won't arrive.  

Day 226: Learner's license at last!

"There's a rumour going 'round that if you amass a certain number of penalty points on your driving licence, the authorities will make you take your test again! Now, if ever there was an incentive to drive carefully, they could not have threatened a more terrifying ordeal" - Jasper Carrott

Project 365: #226

AT LAST, the paperwork has been approved, Caitlin has passed her written test, and effectively has her learner's license. It is so exciting, but Yikes!!!! That means that our cars are no longer ours, and we will have to have a large amount of patience! She has her practical test scheduled for May 24...so six months from now. When I was trying to organize my new license, I was absolutely adamant that I was NOT going to be doing the practical. I hope that all the preparation will prepare her so she is not scared to take the test...automatic transmissions do help!! One more step closer to a little more freedom for her.

Day 225: Monday productivity problem-solving

"Productivity is never an accident. It is always the result of a commitment to excellence, intelligent planning, and focused effort" - Paul Meyer

Project 365: #225

I have had to convince Mouse that this is the most awesome basket, that I have NOT made all cozy just for her so that I can actually get some work done. She usually sits on top of my arms while I am trying to type, which is really not very productive. Solution, cozified-washing basket on the desk. But, she has to think she has found this awesome nest on her own, otherwise she will not use it. I was thinking of downsizing the desk,  but not just yet.... I am carefully planning to be as productive as possible in the least amount of time...requiring great commitment to producing excellent work from intelligent planning and focused effort!

 

Day 224: Start of the holiday season

 "My favorite thing about the holiday season is the lights! I love walking around with family, friends, and a cup of peppermint hot chocolate to look at all the beautiful lights and decorations" - Caroline Sunshine

Project 365: #224

Although most wait until after Thanksgiving, some houses and businesses have already been lit up with holiday and Christmas spirit....this is just the beginning. I can't wait to see what is in store, I think walking around looking at the lights will be my favourite thing too. I would love to know what the electricity consumption is over the festive season, and whether all the lights have a significant impact from space! They do create cheer and happiness to the season, bringing light where there was darkness.