Radiohead in STL

Two days later, I'm still giddy and bouncing around.

Because I don't know any better...

I am standing in the middle of a large group of people, watching one of my favorite bands play on stage, feeling inspired and motivated, thankful and in love and certain that life is good. Life is good because of and in spite of everything that has happened to me. Life is good simply because I'm able to stand here with the people I love.

And I hate to think that this attitude can only be attributed to age or lack of experience. I hate to think that one day I might become bitter or hardened-that one day, I'll think it's silly to love life for the simple things like homemade salsa, red tulips in the rain, or that warm feeling I get when the dog presses his head up against my stomach. I tell myself I will always appreciate those things, I won't take them for granted.

I hate to think I might be an idealist.

Comedy

Just one of the many reasons I won't be voting for John McCain this November.

Wonderful Messes

A few seconds ago I had a memory come back to me the way memories often do. I happened upon a photo of something scribbled on printer paper by a young child. The paper was that kind every printer used to be filled with when I was young. The kind that comes with perforated edges that are meant to be torn off after it's been pulled from the printer and every piece of paper is connected and folded back and forth, back and forth.

Growing up, my bedroom was littered with artwork done on this type of paper. The little edges were fun to tear off and curl up into queues and the fact that this paper was basically all one piece, gave me the freedom to continue each drawing until I felt it was complete. It was especially fun to lay out on the floor and make race tracks for our cars. The possibilities were endless.

Gabriel is at the age where he wants to cut, glue, and tape everything together. While his projects are messy and not nearly as "cute" as most parents appreciate, I like them. They are his creations. These past few weeks I've developed a habit of pulling old magazines, toilet paper rolls, pipe cleaners, and shoe boxes from the basement, setting them all on the floor or table in front of Gabriel and then giving him free reign. Most times I don't prepare or explain what I would like him to do, but he catches on, grabs a pair of scissors and goes wild. Being that this is only the beginning, I can't wait to see what he has in store.

On that note, I am loving this website.

Obsession

Above is a picture of almost everything I planted this Spring. After this picture was taken, I ordered a few more packets of seeds. Heirlooms I absolutely could not resist. And then there was the Mortgage Lifter tomato seedling...and the Green Zebras...and Yellow Pear Tomatoes. Alright, and if I'm coming clean I might as well admit that yesterday I stopped by the nursery for another packet of Swiss Chard and a native flower of which I cannot remember the name.

If ever I wanted evidence that Josh loves me, I think I've got it in the form of a giant aquarium full tiny seedlings with a grow light attached to the side. I hope he doesn't mind when I interrupt making out because I've just noticed the eggplant has sprouted. And then I stand there, at the edge of the aquarium, peeking in. He's a good guy and always indulges me. "Wow" I say, "the tomatoes have their first set of true leaves!" He smiles, acknowledges what I've said and then patiently waits for me to get over it and get back into bed. Seriously, what guy would agree to sleep next to two dozen yogurt cups and a few used egg cartons full of dirt?

I love the feeling of pride I get from ordering all of my seeds from ethical, organic, and non-profit organizations. I've always tried my best to use organic practices, but only recently have I discovered the issues surrounding genetically modified organisms and the seeds that come from them. The peace of mind that comes from patronizing Seed Savers Exchange and Seeds of Change is wonderful but it's also great fun ordering varieties of seed that have stories behind them. Who knew there were so many different varieties of...well, everything. There's a lot to learn and only so much I can do in one summer. Part of me wishes I had a farm so that I could test out the Samarkand (Persian Star) Garlic or the Basinga Tomato. For now, I'm happy being an urban gardener. It sounds cooler, anyway.

Naughty Planters

Could I justify spending 100 bucks on a planter? No.
Would I love to have one of these in my living room? HELL YES.
Found via MightyGoods.

Out!

Josh and I are heading to the Central West End tonight for the opening reception of the Chuck Close Exhibit. I'm was more excited about it than I deserve to be considering I heard the name Chuck Close for the first time about 3 hours ago. Not only do I love going out but I love doing stuff like this. It's a break from routine and well, I haven't had the easiest couple of months. I'm ready for a fun night out and then a nice, relaxing weekend.

So I'm off to take a shower and then maybe put on a little black skirt and some earrings.

Maybe.

Lovely

Went for a walk yesterday and fell in love. I'm tempted to paint something bright yellow...or maybe just plant a few bulbs this September.

Yap Yap

Lunch today with two stay-at-home moms and their kids was less than satisfying. "Mom A" was cool. We chatted briefly about music and where she got her Master's degree until "Mom B" interupted with talk about something I cannot begin to remember or care about. I'm all about sharing funny kid stories and I support stay-at-home moms 100%, but sometimes the conversation is incredibly limiting and dull. I think "Mom B" managed to forget that there is life beyond her children. There are incredible things going on in this world! Why can't we talk about something other than the size and color of your toddler's booger?

I won't elaborate on how her voice and mannerisms remind me of a spoiled Yorkshire Terrier, but I will say this: we won't be spending a great deal of time together. I would like to keep my sanity, thankyouverymuch.