Love don't cost a thing... Okay maybe $4

I fell in love today.

Okay, so it was with four floors of splendid antiquities, but it's love nonetheless. I was in Traverse City dropping off television ads to air on various stations, and asked a client if she knew any antique stores/resale shops where I might find some cool costume jewelry. She mentioned 2 places that she frequents and gave me directions to a place just one street over. I paid the meter and started on my way. When I saw the place, Wilson's Antiques, I realized I have passed it many times before, hardly even noticing it. Oh, what wonder and intrigue I have been missing! I walked in expecting the musty smell of old books, but instead found a well-lit sitting room full of furniture in impeccable condition with a distinct air of the past. I quickly browsed that room and entered into (what I thought was) the heart of the store. I walked around the floor, looking at old glass Coke bottles, fur stolls, rocking chairs, teacups & saucers and then turned like I was ready to go. The lady stopped me and said, 'Aren't you going to check out the other 3 floors?'

More beautiful words have never been uttered.

I spent nearly an hour picking through postcards and pictures, looking at hankies with stitched patterns, and wondering about the thousands of lives that building represents. It was almost an honor to see such a tribute to the past.

I couldn't help but laugh at a few things. One black and white photo of an old couple had a penciled sentence on the back that read, 'Oh you know Dad always had that thing in his pocket!' Glancing back at the front of the photo I couldn't see what thing was, but concluded that his 30-something daughter was lamenting something embarrassing he had regularly pulled out to show her suitors over the years. I also nearly purchased a large photograph of a group of performers from a 1920's circus. There were several ethnicities shown, all in their cultural dress, midgets in tuxedos, enormous women, and even a guy with a 3rd leg. The price tag stuck to it read "Freaks: $30" That made me laugh. (Should I go back and get it??? I'd like to take a poll at the end of this blog, seriously).

All in all, I made it out okay, managing to spend a mere $4 on a print I plan to frame. I couldn't leave completely empty-handed! That would be a disgrace!

As I stood at the checkout I remembered my meter outside and thought 'Wouldn't that be terrible if I managed to spend just $4 in here, and then wound up with a $70 ticket?' We finished the transaction and I hurried outside peering down the block at my car. No ticket yet. I unlocked the car, and just for kicks decided to check the meter. No lie -- One minute left.

The girls of summer

I'm home, finishing a bowl of cereal, sitting in my pjs... thus ends my girls' weekend, and the beginning of my Sunday evening recovery.

As you know, I drove down to Lansing Friday after work to visit my high school friend Sarah. I was really looking forward to the time together, because I'd virtually lost touch with her over the years and only recently connected again (over the 4th of July). I didn't know how she had changed over the years, but I knew one thing, we were up for a good time...

And THAT'S exactly what we had.

When I finally arrived at her new condo around 8 pm, I found out that another good friend of ours from school, Keisha was already there. Sarah had mentioned to me earlier that day that Keish might be coming for the weekend as well, but at the time didn't know for sure. We ended up hugging, laughing, commenting about how much darker my hair is than it was in high school, and how much longer Keisha's is. One of the classic moments of the night (and of Sarah's personality) was when we were all sitting on her bed chatting. Oscar, her sweet black kitty with precarious white paws jumped up on the bed. As she scooped him up and held him like a baby I asked, 'How long have you had him?'

'Well,' she replied, 'I've had Osky for a long time. I rescued him. Someone had just left him and he was so small.' She went on to tell how she tried to nurse him back to health and the vet didn't think he would make it. But he did. 'He ran away once and was gone a really long time,' she continued, 'so I put up lost kitty signs all over and eventually someone was like, I think your cat hangs around our house.' Although she was hopeful she didn't necessarily believe it. At any rate, her dad helped her rig up a live trap with tuna fish because 'It's Osky's favorite' and she caught him! She continued seriously, 'Some day I might let him go though because I think he's meant to be somewhere else. I just feel really bad because he doesn't have his claws anymore. I think he's got a lost love somewhere out there. I really think he does.' (How cute is she?)

We got freshened up and headed out to dinner. Over Italian food (I had the most gloriously prepared tilapia with sauteed veggies and asparagus deliciousness), we caught up on the last 7 years. Sarah talked about the guy she's been dating for five years who she only recently has had to do the long distance thing with & how she feels about working for the Red Cross. Keisha talked about teaching spanish to kids who are sometimes over a foot taller than she is, and what it was like to date a professional baseball player. Then I took a turn catching them up on my dating/not dating/married/not married 'adventures' and some cool personal opportunities I have had recently. We ended up closing down the restaurant that night with full tummies and happy hearts. (Isn't it great when you haven't seen someone in years and pick up right where you left off? The extra cool thing about doing that with people you knew in younger years, is seeing how they've grown up and become successful adults).

Saturday Keish and I slept in while Sarah went to work for a couple of hours at an event for work. Once we got out the door it was about 2 o'clock. We ended up doing a little shopping (I bought a cute skirt), and then did a late lunch. That night we met up with some of her friends from work and went to a Caribbean Festival they were having near the Capitol downtown. The first live band we heard there was playing salsa music, and although it didn't really fit the theme we enjoyed their talent. As the night progressed they finally started to play some reggae. The weather was comfortable and clear as we moved to the music and giggled at some of the people dancing. We met Sarah's friend Khalid who dapples in photography and also works at the Red Cross, and his two friends Kevin and Karl. They were all really nice guys who made great conversation, and we became instant friends.

After two late nights I struggled to open my eyes this morning, and ended up leaving to drive back about an hour and a half later than I had planned. I took my time coming home letting my mind wander over the events of the weekend, and how I can't let so much time pass before seeing them both again. I recounted how thankful I am to have friends who truly know me. I thought about walking back to the car last night all three of us holding hands. There is just something about the kinship of girlfriends that you just don't have anywhere else. And as I drove, I glanced over at a huge field of gorgeous sunflowers unexpectedly and smiled, thanking God for that feeling of 'Summer.'

office talk

Heard moments ago in our office:

Mark looking out into the street: 'Who's the hottie driving the Etcetera?'
Me: 'That's my friend Laura, and it's an X-Terra.'



Anyway - I couldn't resist sharing a little something I just discovered outside... The first patch of colored leaves.

old friends = breath of fresh air

I’m going out of town after work today.

I’m headed to Lansing to stay with my crazy friend Sarah from high school. Some of my best ‘summer-after-senior-year memories’ include her. (C’mon you’ve got a forbidden skinny-dipping story or two, don’t you? Admit it). She’s one of those friends who unwittingly brings out the best, most alive version of yourself. You know, the one that you didn’t know existed. She just has a knack for making you feel okay about who you are. Plus, her hair always looked fantastic, stuck up in every direction (like feathers) with bobby pins. Wild, untamed, and cute, just like her. Hanging out with Sarah just felt like summer to me. It should be fun. I’ll have stories to share, I’m sure.

In the meantime, I’m going to leave you some songs that I’ve been listening to lately to entertain you until I get back. Enjoy yourself this weekend.

‘Move Me’ by Michael Gungor
‘The Story’ by Tristan Prettyman
‘Anne Marie’ by Ari Hest
‘Be Near Me’ - Bethany Dillon
‘In the Rough’ - Anna Nalick
‘I of the 3’ - Jonny Diaz
‘This is the Countdown’ - Mae
‘Someday’ – Campfire Girls
‘Mistakes we knew we were Making’ – Straylight Run
‘Beautiful’ – Shawn McDonald

Handy Am

Me to Jeannine over the intercom moments ago:

“Hello?”

“Hey Jeannine, I forgot to give you a message.”

“Okay, shoot.”

“Handyman Gene stopped by yesterday morning and said that a pipe broke at his house. He might not be in to work on the upstairs until after noon because he has to fix that first.”

“But he’s here now.”

”Yeah, I mean noon yesterday. Sorry, forgot to tell you.”

“You dork.”

Better late than never, right?

don't head to the polls quite yet

We have an answer about Walken for Prez...

awakened by beauty

I've been re-reading through an incredible book. It probably ranks within the top 5 books I've ever read in terms of affecting my life, and impacting the way I perceive God. It's called Captivating, by John and Stasi Eldredge. It's written primarily for women, but I want to include a passage that really jumped out at me last night.

Let me start by saying this: People respond to God differently. Similar to our unique genetic make up, there is a code wired somewhere deep within the DNA of our emotions and souls that differentiates how we best experience God. Things that easily touch my heart and bring tears to my eyes may not affect you similarly, and vice versa. Fortunately for us God was the one Who stitched that thread into our heart. In short, He knows best how to tug on it.

Undeniably, male or female, young or old - all humanity is moved by Beauty... And that is the crux of what this quote is all about.

"All around us God's creation shouts of his beauty and his goodness. The silhouette of lace on a barren tree draped with ice, the rays of sun streaming forth from a billowing cloud, the sound of a brook trickling over smooth stones, the form of a woman's body, and the face of a child anticipating the arrival of the ice cream truck all speak of God's good heart, if we will but have the eyes to see. The coming of spring after a hard winter is almost too glorious for a soul to bear. God's beauty is lavished on the world... Beauty is powerful. Beauty may be the most powerful thing on earth. Beauty speaks. Beauty invites. Beauty nourishes. Beauty comforts. Beauty inspires. Beauty is transcendent. Beauty draws us to God. As Simone Weil wrote, 'The beauty of the world is almost the only way by which we can allow God to penetrate us... Beauty captivates the senses in order to obtain permission to pass straight through to the soul... The soul's inclination to love beauty is the trap God most frequently uses in order to win it.'" I love the way Mr. Weil referenced the cleverness of God in that quote.

My former pastor in Tulsa used to speak of something similar... Something he called "The Law of Attention." He said that when things were feeling stale in his marriage, he would take action to remedy the romance. Executing the 'Law of Attention' meant filling a mundane task with new life that signaled something fresh into the relationship. For instance, when his wife went to the mall, he would tag along, hide behind racks of clothing and then peek out at her unexpectedly. Inevitably she would smile, giggle, or shake her head at his silliness, but it got her attention, and ultimately, her heart. The whole purpose for putting this 'Law' into practice was rooted in a spiritual truth found in Matthew. 'Where your treasure is, your heart will be also,' or as he liked to say 'Wherever you put your attention... Your heart will go there.'

I think God likes beauty, too. From His creation we know He's an avid Outdoorsman, a Sculptor, a Musician, and a Storyteller Who cleverly weaves Himself into the most beautiful of plotlines. The signaling of a new season doesn't happen just because that's how the world was set in motion. Every thing God has created is designed to captivate us... Through the beauty of creation, He's peeking out at us.

He's trying to win our hearts.

let freedom ring... with more cowbell??

2 Questions:

1.) Is this true!?!? And...
2.) Am I the last person in the world to know this?!?!

It's like, I can't think about Christopher Walken without picturing my hand extended toward his face bearing a pink glove and baubled wrist.

Please comment.

(Surely this is just some kid wanting to start a 'campaign' for Walken... or is it?)

Nice day for a white wedding

What I'm about to share is beyond words, so I'm using pictures. I want to make sure you get the FULL effect. I went to a wedding today. There was this heart thing:













And this 'cake production.' Actual fountain included purple water and more bridges:




And WAY too many of these:


















The bride was lovely, and the ceremony was nice, but in a nutshell, it was like renting this:

digital dirt

You can't go to summer camp without getting EVERYTHING dirty -- even the lens of your camera. Here's a shot that my brother-in-law Jon blogged this morning of the 3 of them, last week at family camp. I can't pass up an Ella Opp...

My eyes were Aiken

So I'm driving today and I begin gaining on a car in the lane to my right. I notice that the back of her car is pretty smattered with bumper stickers, but I'm on the phone so I don't really read them.

As I pull up next to her, I look over and see yet ANOTHER sticker on the DOOR of her car. First of all, who bumper stickers their door!? Secondly, there is a picture of Clay Aiken on the sticker and the words, "He's My Clay!"

Unless that lady was his mother, which I highly doubt, she should remove it promptly, and not be allowed to watch American Idol anymore.

Ever.

a virtual umbrella

It's been rather 'blustery' outside the past few days. Don't get me wrong - I love rain, and I love it when the temperatures begin to cool down a bit. I guess it's because you get a lull in the heat, but know the summer isn't quite over yet. (It's the really chilly, snow's-on-its-way rainy days that I don't particularly care for).

When I rolled in from work last night no one else was home yet, so I thought I would write a note to the parents, and head out for my walk. I changed clothes, and as I was tying up my shoelaces in the doorway of my bedroom, my dad pulled into the driveway. It had been overcast all day, but about that time little pitter-pats of rain began falling here and there. 'Do you think the rain will hold off 40 minutes so I can get my walk in?' I asked hoping Dad would say yes. He looked outside and replied, 'Yeah, it's kinda dark over there,' gesturing to the east, 'But it's clear to the west. You'll be fine.'

And with that, I was gone. I scrolled to the new Jason Mraz album on my iPod (which I have mixed feelings about, but it's growing on me), and happily lost myself in the staccato beats and lyrical pingpong game that IS 'Mr. A-Z.'

Every evening I walk out to the 'Point' as the locals call it. I take the blacktop road as it twists and turns past summer homes and peekaboo views of the lake. Once I cross over the bridge that attaches our road to a small island jutting out into the water, I'm almost half way. I walk beyond that to the dead-end cul-de-sac and start back. It was just before this turning around 'Point' that the rain began to fall a little harder... and with every step... a little HARDER. It was in that moment I began figuring out how exactly to protect my iPod and cell phone (I only bring it for emergencies), from the elements. Once I'd securely tucked them into the elastic waistband of my pants, I just shook my quickly-getting-drenched-head and smiled. I knew I was in for the long haul, and I'd be soaked when I got home. I actually started to laugh at the thought. 'Isn't this just how today should end? I ended up with ridiculously large shoes after the pair I left home in wore my feet raw. Then I nearly tripped in the clown shoes and fell flat on the floor. Then I locked my keys in my car. Of course I would get caught in the rain today.'

Just then a lucky, dry, car-riding person who I figured lived on the island, turned the corner toward me. Then I realized... It was my dad. I jogged toward the car, climbed inside, and immediately felt the warmth of shelter from the rain. Humor me while I begin drawing the obvious spiritual implications here.

You're on a journey that starts out looking like a good idea. Maybe someone you trust even steers you in a certain direction. So you start out, bouncing along, enjoying life and doing what you know to improve it, when a black cloud stations itself just north of your head. Trouble in river city.

This past Sunday, Pastor Chad explained that trouble is 'neutral.' When we encounter trouble in our life, it offers a choice. We can allow it to point us in a direction to remedy the situation, or decide to go down a wrong path. It's a crossroads, essentially. He mentioned encountering this in marriage. If a man and woman recognize some things wrong in their marriage (trouble), they can decide to talk it out, work through the issues and grow closer, or ignore the problems and set themselves up for failure. Enter a lovely co-worker... you see where I'm headed.

Again, trouble itself? Neutral.

So there you are, standing in the rain of your negative circumstances with a choice to make. Choose to make the best of it; determining that you're going to keep your heart right no matter what, OR melt into the storm.

Fortunately for us, Someone is above the storm, and He is ready to rescue us. Just when we need Him, here He comes around the corner. I guess it's figurative, because He never really left our side. Deciding to let Him work, deciding to keep a good attitude and trust Him, literally welcomes Him to rescue us. And why wouldn't we?

He knows a little something about quieting a storm. And honestly, climbing into the comfort of His companionship warms to the bone.

Gettin' Fresh

It's frustrating when you get something new and no one notices... it's even worse when you spend a lot of money acquiring that new thing, and then no one notices. That is why the recent 'What perfume are you wearing?' inquiries have been much appreciated... This post is entirely about sharing the wealth. Now, you ladies should appreciate the following, and you MEN, don't run off just yet -- good-gift-giving-info for the lady in your life coming right up!!

A good guy friend has been sharing some style 'Color Forecasting' for the fall with me. Last season, green was the new black. But according to Caleb (kudos to the 'metro men' in my life), it seems that this fall's biggest trend is going to be what the forecasters are calling "Urban Organic." While society leans more to implementing organic products into skin and health care regimen we're obviously in the digital age of technology, so there you have it... Natural organic in an urban chic world. (We've started seeing this especially in the jewel/earth tone color palettes, and peasant skirts and tops paired with gold jewelry and accessories (follow link then click "What's hot," then "Charlotte's closet"). This trend is also found in patterns containing paisleys and climbing vines).

Okay - all that to say, when I was in Las Vegas last fall I bought a scent from a store in the mall called Fresh. They're known for their Index brand scents. Basically, every scent is a combination of flower, herb, or fruit that was delicately formulated to compliment any other scent in the line. (And there's the organic connection for ya).

Perfumes layered together are typically known to clash, but these are different. I purchased Tangerine Lychee while I was there, and later picked up Bergamot Citrus at Sephora (who also carries the Fresh line) to sweeten it up a bit... And now I'm addicted. It's like creating your own little scent.

I would highly recommend the Index line to anyone. I'm told that some guys even wear the muskier scents. And for a unique, and slightly pricey gift, you can buy the Fragrance Chronicles - a book with all 15 unique scents. Incredible. I want one. Badly. (Shocker, I know).

So this was my product commercial for the year. I know you ladies appreciate the links and info... Guys, humor me. Just smile and nod. I'm keeping you hip. :)

*Interesting side note: I was in Vegas to promote the ZOEGirl mission trip and was shopping with the girls. They informed me that when they toured with Nichole Nordeman her signature scent was Pear Cassis. Check it out.

Kerry's not the only flip flopper

‘I need carbs like a hole in the head’ I told her as I stood in the doorway of her office, wasting work time. ‘And yet, bread is the only criteria I have for where we should eat lunch today. Must have bread.’

I got up extra early this morning, and managed to arrive at work later than usual. Walking into the office with aching feet, I suddenly remembered why I hadn’t worn those shoes in so long. So I went on an office coffee run and stopped at Walmart to pick up a pair of cheap flip flops. I walked down the brightly colored plastic footwear aisle and decided that there was really only one pair that matched my peasant skirt and brown tank. You would think with about 20 pairs of the same color they would have my size. Not so. In desperation I ended up grabbing one size larger and headed to the checkout lane. Once in the car I tore the price tags off, threw the shoes on and decided they weren’t so bad.

Upon delivering her coffee drink to her Jeannine said “So?”

“So what?” I asked.

“Whatdya get?”

With a fake air of confidence I walked around her desk, acting like I had made a great find.

“They’re so… HUGE!” she replied.

“Well, I didn’t think they were THAT big…” I said defensively. “C’mon I couldn’t take those other ones anymore,” I said over my shoulder as I nearly tripped face forward out of her office. I could just hear her laughing as I walked downstairs to my office.

I have a friend who recently nearly tore her big toe off in a ‘flip flop related incident.’ So you can believe me – I’m going to be on my guard from here on out.

p.s. I also locked my keys in my car.

announcement

announcement
Originally uploaded by amberleebs.

Here's Donielle Warner the second they acknowleged her as the "Be A Star - Win a Car" Winner. To the left is Brandon Muske and to the right is Jim Burritt, fellow contestants.

gary

gary
Originally uploaded by amberleebs.

This is Gary, the owner of Grand Traverse Auto, and the new GTMazda. He's holding a plaque given to him my Mazda Corporate. The car behind him is the one they gave to the winner, and the sign to the right was created as promotion by our graphic designer. The outline on the sign is my sister Olivia who appeared in the TV ads as well.

sign

sign
Originally uploaded by amberleebs.

At the Grand Opening, we had a giveaway for an iPod mini. Here's my cheese-fest picture next to the sign and entry box that I made.

oh, the irony

I got home from work, changed clothes and headed out for my walk. As I was walking along I was thinking about how much better I've been feeling since I've begun the walking routine. More confident, for sure.

Tonight there was something of a 'cruise night' on our street, so as I was on the return I passed several souped-up hotrods, classic cars, and even some really crappy vehicles with ground effects and fuzzy dice. (I guess you always have to expect there are a few in the bunch). Every couple of cars, the guy who was driving would smile or wave at me, so you know I was feeling pretty heady about myself when I got back. I'm like, 'Yeah, I still got it.' Then, to make matters even more prideful, I walk inside with intentions of writing a blog, but decide to read my post from yesterday first.

When yesterday's post was originally written, my mind-set was introspective, sincere, and thoughtful. Today reading it I was more focused on judging the quality of the writing itself. I read it aloud, pausing in parts to let the power of my own words sink in. Yeah, nice I know. (Don't look at me like that, you're guilty of it too!)

I finished reading, quite proud of myself when I shifted my weight, and moved to sit indian-style in the chair.

...I stepped in dog poop. Way to be, Am.

How's that for a pride-killing reality check?

the comfort of quiet

I stood alone on a bridge tonight.

I've gotten into the nightly ritual of going for a power walk and thinking. Sometimes my mom goes along and we have a good talk, but not tonight. Tonight it was just me, the melodies rolling around in my head, and the ground beneath me. On my return to the house, I stopped on a bridge I usually just walk over. (Okay I'll admit it, I'm usually too busy avoiding the mysterious noises that seem to meander from the woods around me to stop and appreciate it).

I stood there noticing how quietly four little ducks could swim, and how the nearby houses and trees silently kissed their reflection on the water. It stood perfectly still, and in the cool air I heard Fall whisper her first appearance. I consciously enjoyed every fresh breath and realized something. There's really nothing quite like a settled soul.

I've had a lot going on lately. (Who hasn't?) My job keeps me busy during the day, and my mind buzzing at night. I want to have adequate family time and yet yearn for those still moments alone. And let's not even talk about the personal life which sometimes feels more like a cat-and-mouse game of emotions and reason. There is always something.

Standing there drinking in the evening and taking note of the quietness of my own heart, I smiled. I smiled because I couldn't help taking a second to think of all the things I wasn't thinking about at that particular moment. The Stock Market. New shoes. Watching a movie. Pre-writing this blog in my mind. Talking on the phone. Doing something really 'important.' Nothing. I was just standing there listening to myself be. And I liked it.

I finished my walk in a gentle rain, but it didn't bother me. The way I felt right then, a storm could have brewed up and the smile would still have lasted the rest of the walk home.

Moments like that make every hurried, stressed out, what-should-I-do-with-my-life moment tolerable. Scripture reminds us to 'Be still and know that He is God.'

It's in those simple, tender moments that God can reveal to us His sovereign power to shape and form our lives into something beautiful. Finding time in a day to settle our hearts can be tough, especially when slowing down coincides with nodding off. But if we'll make a conscious effort to ask for God's help in finding a place of contentment, it'll get easier to find that place... and you can take a trip there much easier.

Solve the world's traumas tomorrow. Take a minute and just be still.

finding allies

We've all heard the age-old saying 'Bad company corrupts good morals...' but it's something you never really understand until you experience a test for yourself. This idea has been on my mind a lot; go there with me for a minute.

You're about 7 years old on the playground and let's face it, you're a good kid... Maybe you pick on your little sister, but if it really boiled down to pulling her hair or pounding the guy who was doing it to her, you'd choose to stick up for her. At your heart, you want to do right and you (most often) choose to. But suddenly it's the heat of the moment. Do you join the group that's making fun of the outsider even though you'd betray your own heart?

You're 19. You're new to college life and the freedom/responsibility of being on your own. You're trying to juggle work and play... and even though you have great intentions of one day standing out in your field of study, you inwardly struggle with blending into the crowd on a Friday night.

You're 30 and the occupational 'opportunity of a lifetime' opens up in front of you... as long as you're willing to appease your new boss and blink past a little crack in the ethics you stand for...

We've all been there, and will continue to encounter these situations all throughout our lives. Making the right choice (most often in a split second) can be really difficult. I was talking with a good friend recently who shared that even though they are settled with the person they've become as an adult, and are pleased with their lifestyle choices, there can be a nagging thought in the back of their mind that tries to dictate their behavior; mainly in the area of being accepted, or not being on the outside. This is a common problem. And understandably so, no one wants to feel like they are sticking out like a sore thumb. (But is it really worth violating your own conscience and dealing with the regret later on?)

The respite to this struggle is found in 2 ways. Submitting to Christ, first and foremost - and in aligning ourselves with Godly people who can positively affect our 'good morals.' Proverbs 21:17 says, 'As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of a friend.'

Isn't it true that as you read that verse you can quickly think of a friend or person you know who challenges you to be better? I can think of those that I know and respect whose lives inspire me to focus on developing better character. But the plot thickens... We also must remember that just as we're relying on others to set a good example for us to follow, eyes are on us too. There are people in our spheres of influence who (maybe secretly) watch our lives, our character and our actions.

Living lifestyles that honor God, and point others to Him is a noble work. It's essentially emulating the mantra that Paul had for his life... "Follow me as I follow Christ (1 Cor 11:1)."

Honestly, there's so much more riding on your life's example than your reputation.

A Birthday in VanderLand

What would be the best way to celebrate a birthday?

Trekking across Europe?
Skiing in Colorado?
Feverishly buying mp3s off of iTunes?

I guess if you have to grow another year older, you might as well experience it doing something that makes you happy. For my good friend Laura, who is a fan of all of the above, she can't think of a better way to spend her day than with family and me! (This involves throwing apples at her younger cousins and sneaking bits of leftover steak to the dogs, who thank you very much, were clawing at my skirt for more)...

I came to the party expecting a Laura VanderLaan favorite - Red Velvet Cake. Instead I got chocolate cake with no food coloring. I guess it's okay compared to the story about the year there wasn't any so they used green and um, how do I say this...? Left the whole family "Seeing green" for the rest of the week.

All in all, here's to another one Laura. Happy 26th - just think of where we'll be next year!!! SO glad we're friends. Love you.

The Movies, The Mullets and The Wardrobe

So I'm behind on the 'Required Reading List.' Last year, my girlfriend Laura inspired me when she found an online suggested literary works list that every person should read before they graduate college, and started securing the books from the library one by one. I know people who have accomplished this - and I have such great respect for you. It's great to be familiar with the renowned authors, complex characters and unique plotlines that comprise the greatest literary pieces of all time. I joined her in the noble quest of working my way through the list... or should I say, I had great intentions of joining her. This brings me to my present reading. I'm embarrassed to admit it, but I am just now reading the Chronicles of Narnia. And yes, it took seeing the theatrical trailer. I finished The Magician's Nephew last night, and started the 2nd, and most popular in the series, The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe. What can I say...? I'm hooked. I'm just now falling in love with some stories that many of you have loved for most of your lives. I've always had an affinity for allegories though. I remember reading Hinds Feet in High Places as a little girl and identifying with the journey of Much-Afraid. But that's the beauty of an allegory - she represented all of us.

Speaking of theatrical trailers, I've seen the preview for the motion picture version of the Broadway play Rent. I am in love with the Seasons of Love song. Yeah, it's definitely a show tune, but you gotta appreciate the talent. Incredible. (Go to iTunes to sample a listen, or follow the link to watch the trailer).

Okay, now it's time for a little game I like to play called "I (still) live in a hick town." My mom spent most of the day yesterday at 'Old Fashioned Days,' an annual celebration in Marion, MI. Marion is about 20 miles from here and is where my mom spent most of her childhood. Many of my aunts and uncles still live there, as well as my grandparents. Every year it's like a class reunion for my mom because everyone comes home, so she tries to at least go and re-connect. What she told me about the festivities yesterday however, alarmed me. First of all, they had a pork roast. Yeah, it's the other white meat, tastes good with BBQ sauce and pickles, sure that's normal, I don't have a problem with that. What DOES bother me though is when it follows a real life, no this is not Charlotte's Web, Greased Pig Catching. I wish I was lying. She said that they started with the kids (many of which I am sure are forced to wear the mini-truck mullet). Mom said that they had kids as young as 6 chasing tiny piglets. They greased up the pig, and then each person's hands as well. They went in age shifts, but when it came time for the adults, it was a free-for-all. 9 huge pigs and 30-40 people or more at once. Unbelievable... and really stinky. Apparently if you caught a pig you got to keep it, but I have reason to believe they were pretty hungry after all that hog-tying. Don't know for sure, I'm just saying...

Shifting gears - I went north to Traverse City today for church. My cousin was going to go with me, but something came up at the last minute, so I went up there alone this morning. I always enjoy the drive up there, especially when the weather is as gorgeous as it was today. The worship service and message were really good too. Basically, it was the end of a series the pastor has been doing on soul-winning. I'm not thrilled with that term because it's not like leading someone to Christ is a notch in your belt, but I understand the meaning... and the necessity. Scripture even says "He who wins souls is wise." I think as believers we can get so caught up with our own growth, finding God's will for our lives, working through issues, etc, that we can get caught up in our own Christianity and forget to reach out. A good friend mentioned today "If you have to tell people that you're a Christian, (meaning your lifestyle alone isn't enough) you're not doing your job." We should look inward. We should regularly, consciously gauge where our hearts are with God, others and the sincerity of our motives. But we should never be SO introspective that we forget there is a world of people out there who need to know Him... to know He's there. The pastor gave several reasons why we should share the Gospel, but the number 1 reason was because simply, God commands it. What else can you say to that? I know I was convicted about my own life. I want to show His love, and the reality of Christ through my actions first and foremost, but also through my words. This is something I know full well, but it was a good reminder.

Her Turn

My boss Jeannine has taken notice of the pictures of my co-workers that have appeared on my blog. She was jealous... so we had a little photo shoot today. Yeah, fun. You'll notice the first picture of me... the really washed out one looks just WAY too excited to be at work.

My work - on Chapin Street

Taylor Marketing/Fahrenheit Pictures
Originally uploaded by amberleebs.

For those of you who read about the 'Headless Angels,' I thought you might be interested to see where they once were! To the left of the staircase (can't see it in the picture) there is a rock garden and some neatly trimmed shrubs, that is the portion that has been re-landscaped. You can tell that the rest is a little like a jungle still. The bottom left corner is my office, and if you look closely, you can see my desklight turned on. During Chapin Street Landscaping Phase 1, there were only 2 casualties... #1 The angels, and #2 A huge tree that used to be just outside my window. (The second item bummed me out big time). I'm going to include a picture of Lacey that was taken in front of it last month. A memorial, if you will.

Shaded Lacey

Lacey
Originally uploaded by amberleebs.

I took this shot of Lacey while we were shooting a car ad. The tree and bench used to be in front of my office window.

Last night

Amber
Originally uploaded by amberleebs.

We had to stay at Grand Traverse Mazda last night shooting their Grand Opening ad until after 10 pm. We were actually waiting to get a night shot, but the lights never turned on. It was quite annoying, but we made the best of it. It's amazing how well you can entertain yourself in the parking lot of a dealership when it's like 90 degrees and you're exhausted. Mark, Matt and I recorded some hilarious footage of ourselves... and Mark took this picture of me.

freakishly Us

So, I got this in my email today - my co-worker Mark's latest creation. He's actually famous for mimicking Conan O'Brian's "If they mated." I guess this is a step up.

(The guy we're 'carrying' is Dave Zamaites, the manager at Grand Traverse Mazda. He would be thrilled if he knew this was online, I'm sure).

freakish

I work in a building that has been converted from an early 1900's lumberbaron's home into an office. It's full of character and has been a renovation labor of love. In an effort to bring back some of the building's charm, we've worked diligently to paint, restore the hard wood floors and replace the trim. It's really had an overhaul in recent months. With so much of the inside restored, my boss decided it was time to work on the outside. Over the weekend she had the front lawn re-landscaped.

The previous owners had installed a huge rock garden and some shrubbery that has long since been overgrown. Among the flowering bushes, and towering trees were some weird looking ceramic angel figurines.

This is how they were found this morning in the trash can. Scary. What does this mean?!