The Pragmatic Perspective

Pretty much the sound of commercialism reigning supreme the world over. Why is our Christmas holiday so lost? Sadly, the focus has shifted from gratitude to overindulgence and empty gestures. We are swimming upstream on this one. We are giving markers and books to our kiddo for Christmas. We have picked some inexpensive items to bestow upon our close family; and me and my girl have been baking to share with our dear friends. I do hope we can teach her to see the truth in the holiday- we were given a gift we desperately needed and didn't deserve; from the hand of a being so loving we can't fathom it. All we can do is humbly share a little of our thankfulness by loving those around us. Do your best, even if it's the worst. Merry Christmas everyone!

I'm an auntie! My sister and husband welcomed their first, a son. Julian James Berg Born November 21, 2007 6 pounds, 7 ounces In Anchorage, Alaska Congratulations to my dear sister and brother-in-law, Jonae and Jordan. PS-They are all home as of Friday, and feeling well. My mom arrived the day before birth, so she is being a great help to the new family! Julian eats well and only cries from gas pains. He is wide-eyed and quite alert right after nursing; and sleeping well in between. I am so happy for them all! Now we just have to wait to see the little guy for a while. Blessings and peace to the Bergs!

I haven't spent as much time updating this blog of late. I must confess that I'm on myspace now, too. There was never much time for either to begin with, so please bear with me if you wish! (This pic [thanks, Zoe]is my best method of smile conveyance .)

It is beautiful when the yellow, rust, and red leaves contrast with the sky. All our leaves have fallen now. I miss the color; mostly gray has set in, except the back yard grass is still green. As much as I don't look forward to the ice and snow; I know it will wash away the gray. Here's to orange walls in the house!

Yes, it was heavenly! And now we are back on land, and missing the sea. The water and sky are all we need to soothe a tired soul. It is similar to the effect of living under the pines in western Montana. I used to say we were living in God's country. I believe the sea has it's own connection to heaven. We loved St. Thomas and Puerto Rico. There wasn't enough time to take in the beauty and history of these beautiful islands! I'm sure we will return in the future. We met a great band from Jamaica/St.Lucia. We don't know if we will ever see them again, and it's a killer to see live music, only to trade it for a CD! Hey, T.E.M, hope to catch you on the high seas again! Peace and love to you!

We finally got around to painting the outside of the house! Not much of a change, but nicer to look at. Now off to vacation.....

Last fall we were introduced to the joy of cruising when Glenn and Jill took us on a Caribbean cruise. We have decided it is the only way to really relax on vacation. In honor of our 10 year anniversary, we are taking a 7 day cruise to the eastern Caribbean. We sail from Miami on October 13. Glenn and Jill are going to tag along, so we'll have a nice "couples" thing this time. I hope each of you gets a chance to try it one day! Life is too short to put off celebrating. We decided that breaks like this get us through the rest of life. Besides, you can't beat 5% interest on Capital One!

My two favorite people love to read! Zoe likes to copy anything Daddy does, so she hopped up there to "read" too. I'm sure you can see the mess of books by our bed. I don't believe there's anything better for a person's mind than a good book. We have enough among the 3 of us to require a good sized truck if we ever move. Zoe's foray into education has been a delight for her and a relief for us. Hopefully she will be a reader in the near future and take her turn reading to us!

Zoe started preschool today. I have never been a big proponent of "preschool", but she needed something. In my opinion, the new separation anxiety she has displayed is unhealthy for a 4.5 year old. She needs additional academic stimulation also, as I get tired of doing learning activities at all hours of the day. She is a craft, drawing, cutting, learning kind of kid; so this should be the best thing since her new Elmo backpack! When I left her there, she looked as though she had been abandoned, but I'll be surprised if she is anything less than crazy happy when I pick her up. Stay tuned for updates.........maybe.

Jesse and I just finished viewing the classic U2 film once again. The fresh-faced band members have worn well for the most part. Their passion and purpose has rung true for a long time. Running to Stand Still has been always been a favorite. I wanted to find it from back in the day, but even now its beautiful.

If only it had an off switch; my mind. It is noisy and cluttered and I can feel it in my stomach and in my throat. I'm all one piece, after all. If I could disconnect, I'd be in a quiet, comfortable place. Alas, I am entwined, and so I must breathe slowly-deeply. I will get to quiet and calm if I can only breathe. Be still, mind; silence to this mortal temple in which I reside. May you too have peace and be blessed. And do not forget to breathe.

Truly, there is very little worth relaying to anyone. It is hot, hot, and more hot here in Glendive. One hundred degrees every day for the past week or so. Today 102f/38c. At 9 pm it's still 90f/32c, and will remain until 2am or so, then down to 67f/19c for a couple hours before warming up again. It is surely a boon to the electric company and all who sell a/c units. The malaise induced by such extremes prompts me to question my inner strength. If I'm reduced to worthlessness by heat, what will I become in more trying times? It warrants consideration as I'm downing gallons of water whilst lounging by Zoe's plastic pool. Perhaps I can solve this conundrum before snow flies. My standards are high, so there may be little I can actually change, but I'm definitely going to try.

Hope you had a good 4th of July! We did the whole parade and 2 parties thing. We ate so much between Mandy's and Brooke's, that I have taken a week to write about it! It was a full day and I am still proud to be an American ( albeit a redneck one)!

When we were in South Dakota in May, we picked up our "new" car. A 2001 Toyota Prius. We needed better fuel economy and a long-lasting, quality vehicle. Jesse has long been researching hybrid technology. Having realized time would not allow for him to convert a standard vehicle to hybrid; we took the plunge. Toyota did not disappoint us. A great little car and I buy gas every 2 or 3 weeks in town. Once if on a trip over 300 miles. Toyota makes it easy to be green!

I can't believe she's grown so fast! Those baby days gone forever. The toddler has faded away, and I'm greeted each morning by a precious little girl.

We spent Father's Day with Jesse's dad and family. It was a beautiful, windy(bug-free) Sunday afternoon. Glenn did the cooking even though it was his day- the best bbq ribs for 500 miles in all directions. Jill had real A&W root beer for floats, too. You couldn't buy a day like that for any price. Quiet, slow, strong and delicious- just like the men we were celebrating. Thanks for being you, guys!

We had the opportunity to visit in Rapid City, SD over Memorial weekend. Zoe had a wonderful time with Jesse's cousin Emily! She was so proud to get the chance to hold her second cousin Logan for this photo. Jesse and his dad Glenn started construction on Aunt Becky's unfinished basement and the whole family pitched in to help. It was a chance for Zoe to get to know Great-grandparents a little better, too. Great-grandma Lydia gave Zoe a tour of her flower beds and Zoe was thrilled to bring some home! ( Not to forget the huge bucket of cotton candy that had to be in the photo, too!)

Upon realizing our recliners are slowly becoming "vintage"; we began discussing what to replace them with. Bean bags were the idea Jesse presented; I mocked him. Yet see where we now lounge. The original Fatboy bean bag, as sold on Overstock.com is a hit at our house. And why not? Why do we feel the need to present chairs, sofas, stools to guests? I am getting used to the difference and appreciating it. This thing is much larger and more versatile than a typical bean bag. I'm still holding on to the one recliner (because it is a rocking one) until Jesse can modify/add to the Fatboy. It is quite clear when you walk in the door, that we have some weird ideas of home. They work for us, and that's what matters. You may want to check this thing out. Let us know when you'll be in town!

I'm giving myself a mom grade. Not as bad as some, but a long way to go to a B+. Whenever she's difficult, I feel that I could have prevented it. Maybe read another book to her; insisted on "naptime"; or more fruits and veggies. Tonight I got in the van and calmly drove to recycle newspaper. Good, except she was in the shower crying because of baby shampoo in her eye and wouldn't let me rinse it. I took my phone, waved to a bewildered husband and DROVE AWAY. I did answer his prompt call and returned after dropping off newspaper. The problem here was a lack of endurance. A really long zoe-day and I don't know how to train for those. I'm aware of the problem, but not sure how to fix it. Let's hope I'm on my game tomorrow.

Ok people! If you don't know Mr.Dane Cook, get to it! At the risk of offending my audience, I have included this clip. He's funny and he's crazy-beware the Dane.

My friend Brooke and family hosted a fun party to celebrate. We had more food than ever necessary and a great time! Zoe really pounded the pinata;though her older friend, Tailor, had to finish it off. I hope next year we can party outside, but we enjoyed it all in spite of the rain. Thanks to Brooke and Alan for an awesome 5-5-07!

You can see what keeps me and my girl busy these days. We only set it up 2 days ago, and already she sleeps longer each night! It is a much more pleasant way to get a workout than my small, indoor version, too. I've been waiting for 5 years for this; we nearly bought one in ND, but I found out I was pregnant with Zoe and no jumping allowed. We decided it was a priority this tax return. If any of you are in the vicinity, stop in for a jump!

I did it; I chopped off my hair for a good cause(Locks of Love). I've done this before, but when my starting length was much longer. It wasn't an entirely selfless act; my long curls required a lot of time and effort to control them. I was hoping to look a little older, but you can see that won't be happening any time soon! First pic was Feb. 28 and second, April 16. Feel free to have a little laugh.

Magazine on design/home- Dwell Magazine for women- Women's Health Family animated flick- The Incredibles Surfer film- Endless Summer II Period Drama- Sense and Sensibility-Emma Thompson Jane Austin Novel- Pride and Prejudice Sit-com- News Radio Sherlock Holmes portrayal- Jeremy Brett Batman portrayal-Christian Bale Reality tv show- What Not to Wear on TLC Now you know what I think and you can share, mock, agree as you like.

We had a good time seeing my family in Bis/Man over Easter weekend. We posed for a family portrait; our last chance for a while due to Jonae and Jordan's impending move. The simple pleasures of good food and conversation were the highlight of our trip. Necessary shopping was thrown into the mix, and we had the privilege of seeing a real movie sans child. I hope you all had a good weekend and were able to worship in your own ways!

If you didn't know, I'm sure it is now apparent that I am a dog lover. Large dogs are especially dear to my heart. Here is my own sweet Mandy, half Labrador Retriever and half Rottweiler. We always say she doesn't know about the latter half, since she's kind of a "rainbows and butterflies, oh boy" sort of dog. That is what she gives to us-perspective on the good in life and perpetual hope for more to come. She is 8 years old and I hope to have her dopey dog face around for a while longer.

Zoe is so happy when she gets to spend extra time with Jesse during the daytime. He worked into the night last night; as a result,his day was a late start. She bounced out of bed and danced around like the freak that she is to have daddy here on a weekday morning! She told me to get a picture of her with him, so this it it, kiddo!

Christ be with me, Christ be within me, Christ behind me, Christ before me, Christ beside me, Christ to win me, Christ to comfort me, Christ above me, Christ in quiet, Christ in danger Christ in hearts of all that love me Christ in mouth of friend and stranger.

Yes, we are a little Irish here. Jesse mostly. Zoe decided she needed to dive headfirst into her solid wood bed frame. She has a split eyebrow to prove it. She's very into the festivities anyway. Happiness to all you who celebrate!

I give you Shakespeare The quality of mercy is not strain'd, It droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven Upon the place beneath: it is twice bless'd; It blesseth him that gives and him that takes; 'Tis mightiest in the mightiest; it becomes The throned monarch better than his crown; His scepter shows the force of temporal power, The attributes to awe and majesty, Wherein doth sit the dread and fear of kings; But mercy is above the sceptered sway, It is enthroned in the hearts of kings, And earthly power doth then show likest God's When mercy seasons justice.

Jesse made this yoga block as a birthday gift for me. I have been practicing yoga for about 6 years now. I began as an alternative to the loud, fast workouts in the YMCA Life Center. I'm not particularly light on my feet, so any type of dance was definitely out. The benefits have actually been life changing. I learned to quiet myself, breath, and move all at once. My flexibility hasn't progressed to the point where I can sit full lotus; but it has improved. My balance has been the most noticeable change; reflexes are much quicker,too. Almost as if I had taken some dance classes! I now have the ability to learn a workout dance routine in less than 1 month! The most powerful effect of yoga is the knowledge of how to focus my mind by exercising my body. I am able to "get away" when I practice yoga. Perhaps you'd like a retreat, too.

We are in a phase of oranges, browns, and dark greys. Here is the latest photo of the kitchen. You may be able to tell that the background wall is now more orange than red.

I'm so very excited for my sister, Jonae and her husband, Jordan! They just found out they are expecting their first in October. It brings back memories of the nervous anticipation. They, as we did, broke the news along with plans to relocate in the next couple months. Alaska is their destination; four times further away from Bismarck than Missoula was. Zoe (pictured above at approximately 5 months old) has been asking when she can see her cousin. It is difficult to explain to a four year old how and why 2800 miles keeps families apart. We hope that unforeseen circumstances make it possible for them to somehow meet often. I wish my dear sister a wonderful journey!

I must confess; I am a HUGE fan of the band Queen. Who else can belt out ballads about love, freedom, and body language in pristine vocal precision? Freddie's awesome, powerful voice is the quintessential male vocal ! A true tragedy that we don't have him with us to inspire that level of performance. Christian music's Whiteheart comes in a close second. Rick Florian could wail with the best of them and I've seen him do back flips while holding a high note. When I find a video........

That's what Jesse calls me, anyway. I do spend about an hour or two daily online, but I don't consider that to be extensive. However, if we are in the market for any item of value, I do research online- in the form of customer and expert reviews to find the best product for the money. When we were looking for a new lcd television, I spent some extra hours on that. Jesse has now begun to ask my opinion on electronics of interest! I tell him to check Pricegrabber.com for specs and reviews, and Amazon.com for reviews and sometimes free shipping. In my defense, we live in a small town, and it is difficult to get some items here. Considering the cost of fuel, it is much cheaper to pay a little shipping now and then, than to drive to a larger city for shopping. Finally, how else would I keep up with my friends near and far? Thanks for shopping!

So I finally figured out how to put pics in the post....one of my favorites here.

It's when I'm sick that I often think of how much I can be thankful for. Just a little cold that hit Jesse, then Zoe, now me. After all, I had the cash to buy Zicam at the store. What more do I need? So here's the short list. My best friend and partner, Jesse My now 4 year old child, bright and beautiful My dear family and friends A house to call home- complete with plumbing and electricity! Heat in the bitter cold winter and food to spare Last, but not least-technology that brings me closer to you reading this-that allows me to "phone home" whenever I please-that records my life in digital any time I push the button "For these gifts that I have received, may God make me truly thankful" Amen

I don't know exactly how, but I would like to begin to express to you the way I see the world. This viewpoint has taken years to develop, and is constantly evolving. Some would liken my perspective to Eastern thought; because I have learned to see how everything is connected to every other thing. I believe that the rhythm of life flows on and on. We are neither subject to nor master of this rhythm. We choose how we react and chart our own course. If we are willing to grow, we tread gently and pain is often our guide. We then have the choice to gain or lose the truth we've worked so hard for. It is an interesting journey, to be sure!

Of interest today: a person's resistance to asking for help. I have found this to be the perfectionists' greatest obstacle to finding a place in the real world. I have always been a realist, while fervently hoping that I'm wrong and the fantasy is real. My perfectionism has kept me from dreaming and spurred me on to lofty goals. Why then would I avoid the helping hand of reason? Pride is my answer; and is a universal ball and chain. I don't want to reveal my need of another; or expose my lost position, for fear that I will appear weak and broken. If I had the heart of a child, I would request assistance in a moment and be the better for it. "Two are better than one...If one falls down, his friend can help him up... if two lie down together, they will keep warm...though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves." Eccl. 4:9-12 I may learn something when I ask for help.

Last night, I saw James Blunt perform on Austin City Limits . He alternated between guitar and piano (his accompanist, Paul Beard, was excellent also). It is rare for me to be moved by a musical performance simply because it is heartfelt. The ability to express one's deepest thoughts and feelings is a trait common to writers/musicians. The trick is to remain connected to them, while expressing them, without being overcome by them. James seems to have this skill in hand. His riveting performance was warm and original.

I am always impressed,though not surprised, when Jesse completes a creation. Here is the chair he made for Zoe. It is adjustable and sturdy; to be used for many years. She had no place to rest her feet when sitting in her booster seat. Thus, the new chair.

My life seems to be measured in projects. "We last saw them when we had just torn the wall out. Did we have the cabinets installed on the north wall yet?" Here are a couple pictures to give an idea of where we are at in the kitchen. Enjoy!

Greetings to all who have ventured into new territory! We shall discover if my forthcoming communications are engaging and lucid. Many thanks for your company on the way!