Mountains Beyond Mountains

This is one of those books that changes you and your view of the world. It's all about Haiti, and an amazingly inspirational man, Paul Farmer, the head of Partners in Health who have been working in Haiti for over 20 years. It will give you insight into the people that we are all thinking about and praying for... it's been a couple years since I last read it. I think I'm going read it again as a part of my grieving process.

Haiti

In light of the situation in Haiti, I've felt like anything I might blog about in my daily life is very trivial compared to what is happening flight hours away. I think about Haiti almost incessantly (when not distracted by the demands of my boys, of which there are many); still feeling shocked, angered and saddened by the senseless suffering of so many. Oh the horror of an unjust world where infrastructure is sorely lacking, the poor are marginalized, and life hangs in the balance every day. And then there is an earthquake. I always have to ask God, "why?", to which there is never a clear answer. I will never understand why there is seemingly senseless suffering.

Morning Explorers

We spent this morning exploring a neighborhood park we love. We saw a total of two other people (walking their dogs) the whole time we were there. I think this weather keeps people at home. It was a nice mid-week retreat for us since we've been homebound a lot too. The ducks were out and Torin refused to leave them when it was time to go. Apparently he loves ducks.

A typical "in your face" moment captured.

I made the mistake of thinking that having both boys climb up (and subsequently down) this structure together would be a *feasible* idea. Let's just say I'm glad everyone's okay. Other than a badly bonked knee, we're all in one piece.

Who knew that mole hills could provide so much entertainment!?

I love outside.

Full Monty

This boy is an "all in" kind of kid. He can't just feel the beans with his hands, or fill up cups and pour with funnels. He has to get into the bin to experience the full monty. Watching him (and his brother) live makes me live more deliberately, and is truly a gift.

Meeting The Papayas

I've blogged about her here and here, but had never met in person (they live in a different state) until last week! Hard to believe, but they're cuter in person! Meeting felt like seeing old friends. I spent the entire morning trying to channel all of Mama Papayas endless energy and great ideas--phew, I was tired!

Ashen kept giving Figs the stinkeye, but I think it's because he liked her :-)
Lucky us.

The other Engineer

Where's Ashen?

Here he is!

p.s. Thanks for the hat, T!

Simple Pleasures for 2010

Reading,
Relaxing