Tuesday, October 26, 2010

One Year Anniversary

San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge outside of my window, plenty of people gathered together to talk about science and education in a fabulous conference, and today marks one year of a special anniversary. It has been an AWESOME year and a WONDERFUL journey. I am so grateful to God for the help I've been given and look forward to the next year ahead!!

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Trying to Buy a House

I've been looking, there are some challenges, but finally a person crossed my path (divine providence, I know it!) that could help.So, here it is. A garden home in central Corpus Christi.Conveniently located to all my points of interest (read: work and grocery store) and in a quiet neighborhood. Garden home means it is 2 bedroom, 2 bath, spacious and with other garden homes with similar people (read: people who have finished raising children and are downsizing). I LOVE IT.Only five years old, gently used, my colors (read:  BLUE) and honestly, when I envisioned what I wanted - this was the house, only it is nicer than what I envisioned. A low maintenance yard, big enough for me and Ella with a wonderful patio. The purchasing process is well in progress. My old living room furniture has been hauled away and the church sold it in their annual rummage sale, along with a desk, bed, and lots of stuff. Yes, I've purchased new furniture and it will be delivered to the new house. I cannot WAIT! Closing date is set for early November, moving in the next day. Did I say I was excited??! Here's why:
This is the back patio area - nothing is behind the house. Love the slate and the flowering plants!
The entryway - love the transom windows throughout the house - so light and wonderful!

This blue tiffany lamp is over where the dining table will be -- I LOVE blue and would have selected this same fixture --- blue and white are my favorite interior color combination's.
Yes, that is a blue kitchen! This niche on the wall is begging for a mural to be painted...or something. I'm thinking about it....
The kitchen - love the stainless appliances, cooktop and...
matching refrigerator with water/ice dispenser that stays! Keep in mind people - my current home of five years does not have a garbage disposal or ice maker. This is heaven! I was even more excited when I found...
a pantry! A real live pantry! My current pantry consists of two shelves above the dryer. Awesomeness!!!!
More blue - I think I will find a new appreciation for cooking again! Note another niche next to the kitchen. Ohhh the possibilities....
Another view of the Tiffany lamp. Did I say I love blue?
A den where my piano and a new sofa will go. Sleeper sofa. It has Audrey's name on it :) The guest bedroom and bath are down the hallway.
View of dining and living area. It's huge. I got a new couch and love seat - powder blue leather! And new end tables! GORGEOUS!
Master bedroom with double doors to the master bath which is soooo awesome!
Double sink vanity, garden tub, step in shower and H-U-G-E closet!
The garden tub. Love the glass -- I may enjoy taking baths again. Ella too!
The fixture over the sink. Pretty fancy, don't ya think?
Outside walkway to the front door. All professionally landscaped with rock and sprinkler system for the plants. Low maintenance - yay!
Here's the patio in the back. No one lives behind the house - huge empty lot. Very quiet - and peaceful.

Can't ya just see the barbeque grill and chaise lounges?

Fingers and toes are crossed as we traverse the mortgage process - all is proceeding well and things are scheduled to happen in early November. There are more rooms but I want to wait to show when furniture is delivered and the dust settles a bit (i.e., boxes are unpacked). God is blessing me so abundantly in so many ways. This is a dream that is coming true before my very eyes!












Sunday, October 03, 2010

A flower with my name on it.

A few weeks ago when I walked into the suite to my office one morning, I found this:

A hibiscus plant from one of my former students. The note said, "Dr. Mac - It had your name on it - Literally! From, Betsy."   Though I was pleasantly surprised, I had no idea what she meant...until I got it inside my office and took a closer look:

A Cherie Hibiscus! I took it home, repotted it and after a few weeks, it bloomed:
It continues to blossom as does my appreciation for family and friends that are so thoughtful, supportive and always there with a smile and words that make the day a blessing! Thank you and may God bless you right back!!