Weekend randomness

It was a lovely weekend. Here are some random bits.

- I did a lot of walking this weekend. Spring is finally upon us, and the weather is perfect for walking. The sidewalks are still a little treacherous – lots of puddles and some slippery bits – but it was worth the effort. On Saturday, the girls and I walked to the mall and back (about a mile one way). On Sunday evening, I walked to church and back (almost 2 miles one way). This morning, I walked half way to work (almost 3 miles). My feet are a little surprised to be put to so much use, and they’re protesting a bit, but they’re just gonna have to suck it up!

- On Saturday, I walked into Wal-mart for the first time in about a year. The girls thought I might break out in hives, ‘cause I have such a strong dislike for that place. I dislike what they stand for, I dislike the way they treat people, I dislike the way they exploit people in developing countries, I dislike the fact that they gleefully shove consumerism in our faces, AND I dislike their yellow smirky-faced logo that implies I should be HAPPY to be there. Fortunately, I was just returning one of Maddie’s birthday gifts (that didn’t fit), so, for a change, THEY had to give ME money. At least I can find some pleasure in THAT.

- Yesterday, I sewed a funky purse/bag out of some batik fabric I’d bought in Africa last year. I also sewed a skirt, but I’m particularly fond of the bag. I carry it with pleasure and pride. I think I may have to find some more funky fabric to sew a few more bags.

- Have you ever walked a labyrinth? Our awesome church painted one on the floor, and yesterday’s service was a time of meditation, music, and labyrinth-walking. I can hardly describe it. It was incredible – peaceful, worshipful, sensual, and transformative. I want to do it again.

- Nikki and Julie got their report cards late last week. (Warning – bragging about children ensues.) Julie, as always, is astonishingly school-smart. She counted 44 “Excellents” – out of approximately 50 categories. The problem is, she’s bored with school and I’m not sure how to make sure she’s challenged. She rarely does homework because it’s a waste of time (why practice your spelling words if you get 10 out of 10 on the first try, or why do “homereading” if you devour a more challenging book almost every night?) Nikki, on the other hand, is not as “school-smart”, but she’s smart none-the-less. Not surprisingly, the places where she excelled were things like “takes responsibility for her own work”, and “diligent and dependable” (this is the kid who tells her friend, on Saturday afternoon, that she can’t chat on MSN because she wants to do her homework – which isn’t due for another week). The comment from the teacher that she showed particular interest and aptitude in the unit on politics thrilled me to no end – she is her father’s daughter in more ways than one.

- Did I ever mention how much I love bookstores (or at least GOOD bookstores)? An hour or two in a bookstore is about as good a way to spend time as any I can think of, and I got to do that this weekend. Yay!

- I like Friday nights. Every Friday night, whichever members of my family are in the near vicinity at the time get together for supper – usually at our house. This time is was just ccap and her boy, and the cutest-baby-on-the-face-of-the-earth. I like them. They make me happy. I also like the OTHER members of my family, but I don’t get to see them as often.