Sunday, May 29, 2011

My Road to Damascus (aka Daring Decade of Destiny Begins)

In a little 'pre-birthday month celebration' action... I decided to do something I normally wouldn't! So this past weekend, I took a huge leap outside of my comfort zone and landed on a bicycle! Oh... and it was transformational.

In Virginia no less! My friend Caroline (and my former Bishop even though he didn't even show up) organized a group of us to ride the Virginia Creeper Trail...
The Virginia Creeper Trail is a 34 mile trail near the corners of Tennessee, Virginia, and North Carolina. We rented bicycles and took a shuttle to the top of the hill at Whitetop Station to ride the 17 miles back to Damascus.

Allyson and I waiting for the shuttle

Then we rode downhill (Caroline wasn't kidding when she said it was downhill the whole way!) with a view of gorgeous trees and running water.
Britt checking back on me to make sure I'm still there! She's the best!


We even took a break and hiked a bit of the Appalachian Trail - just to say we did!
Climb that tree Katie!!

I said, "Hi," to some of my peeps in Taylor's Valley!


While I spent most of my time concentrating on not falling off the bicycle or running over other people, I did take time to enjoy my surroundings and take in the beauty and calm. It was an absolutely gorgeous day and I thoroughly enjoyed the adventure! I even learned a little bit about how I obtain such a leisurely pace on a bicycle... apparently I don't pedal the bike until I'm about ready to tip over (at least in Andrew's opinion! - though he's probably right)

Thanks Caroline, for encouraging me to do something daring...
Thanks Katie and Britt for also staying with me...
I'm so glad I didn't die!

Broken

Britt: "Virginia"
Ashlee: "Is for lovers"
Allyson: "Yeah. Some things just can't be fixed."

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Counting My Rings


"Time and tide wait for no man, but time
always stands still for a woman of thirty."
- Robert Frost

Ah, the memories of the last three decades...
please come with me as I reminisce....
and count the rings of my life's tree...

In 1981, I was born... along with the 1st panda born in captivity outside of China. Join me at the NC Zoo, Monday, May 30th - leaving my house @ 9am if you want to carpool.

In 1986 I remember the explosion of the Challenger - much like my mother remembers the death of JFK. But there are so many good things in the stars... let's view them. Join me at Morehead Planetarium, Friday, June 3rd for the 8pm show - I recommend getting tickets early if you'd like to attend.

In 1989 I remember the falling of the Berlin Wall - I didn't know much at the time, but I did know something not good had happened in Germany. But there are some awesome things that come out of Germany - like German pancakes. And what better than to have them for dinner! Oh... they will be had - June 4th to be precise!

In 1992 the Super Nintendo was released - but my mother never let us have one. And I never have had a game system - but sure have enjoyed good old fashioned games. Join me at my home on Tuesday, June 7th @ 7:30 pm to play games and eat some of my favorite treats.

Throughout my life I have been so richly blessed - and try to remember to recognize the hand of God in my life whenever I can. I also enjoy giving back when I can... so on Wednesday, June 8th I'll work with those who want to help (let me know if that's you) to provide a meal for the SECU Family House... with birthday cake for dessert of course!

In 1994 my first niece was born - and changed my life forever - so I convinced the Bank of Mom & Dad that a trip to see said niece (and the four that follow her) was definitely a worthy investment! So Utah peeps - I'm coming to see you - and celebrations are in order! (And dear nephew #2 - I hope to see your chubby cheeks and big brown eyes oh so soon! Oh, how I need to kiss your face. In the meantime, nephew #1 may have to take the heat. He better get prepared!)

In 1997 I got my driver's license (which I have to renew this year)! As much driving as I do these days, that's definitely something to celebrate! Join me at a viewing of Cars2 on Friday, June 24th at Wynnsong on MLK 8'o'clock ish. Mater's my favorite. :o)

In 1999 I began studying Music Therapy. Granted it didn't last long, but still...I believe an encore performance is in order. Join me at Battle of the Bands on Saturday, June 25th @ 6:30ish at the Institute.
It's going to be epic.

Also in 1999 I became an Aggie (and will die an Aggie). I called Big Blue to see if he wanted to celebrate with me... but it's just too pricey these days to fly all the way out here. So he called his cousin, Wool E., and made sure that his house would be open for a celebration... Join me at a Durham Bulls game, Monday, June 27th @ 7:05 pm. (let me know if you want to go via comment, text, or e-mail and we'll coordinate seating sections).

In 2003, I moved to North Carolina... and became a Tar Heel - where 'nana's are in puddin', my name changed to "Baby," and BBQ is noun not a verb. And that, my dear friends, is worth celebrating! And eating... and it's gonna be good!

Nearly eight years I've been in North Carolina...I have grown tall and strong and have branched out until my tree of love is full and wonderful. And I can't help but thinking...

30's not old.... for a tree!

Join me for a tree planting and a cookout, Wednesday, June 29th @ 6:30 pm. Location = Pres. Jay Condie's house. Bring: a chair, your own meat to cook, a side dish to share. Dessert will be provided. RSVP required by 6/25/11

June 30th marks my golden birthday - turning 30 on the 30th! And I can't think of a better way to celebrate than to surround myself with gold. Since I'm an employee of the state government, we all know that is a scarce commodity for me. So I'll head to the temple... and serve my Maker. It's the best gift I can give to show Him how grateful I am for such a wonderful 30 years. Perhaps I'll see you there!

Join me for any or all events celebrating
the growth of my own tree of life.

Loves,
-a-

Monday, May 9, 2011

New Theme Song??

"The Long Way Around"

My friends from high school
Married their high school boyfriends
Moved into houses in the same ZIP codes
Where their parents live

But I, I could never follow
No I, I could never follow

I hit the highway in a pink RV with stars on the ceiling
Lived like a gypsy
Six strong hands on the steering wheel

I've been a long time gone now
Maybe someday, someday I'm gonna settle down
But I've always found my way somehow

By taking the long way
Taking the long way around
Taking the long way
Taking the long way around

I met the queen of whatever
Drank with the Irish and smoked with the hippies
Moved with the shakers
Wouldn't kiss all the asses that they told me to

No I, I could never follow
No I, I could never follow

It's been two long years now
Since the top of the world came crashing down
And I'm getting' it back on the road now

But I'm taking the long way
Taking the long way around
I'm taking the long way
Taking the long way around

Well, I fought with a stranger and I met myself
I opened my mouth and I heard myself
It can get pretty lonely when you show yourself
Guess I could have made it easier on myself

But I, I could never follow
No I, I could never follow

Well, I never seem to do it like anybody else
Maybe someday, someday I'm gonna settle down
If you ever want to find me I can still be found

Taking the long way
Taking the long way around
Taking the long way
Taking the long way around

**Dixie Chicks**