A peaceful reminder...

Today I dialed a wrong number. It is something I have done countless times in the past, though for some reason I found today's experience to be a bit more disturbing. To start off, the woman on the other line answered the call with a very confrontational, "What do you want?" Obviously, since I was expecting someone else, I was surprised and confused by the greeting. Cautiously, I preceded to say hello and to ask for my friend. Once again, the woman answered harshly, "There isn't a Jenny here. This isn't Alaska. Why are you bothering me?" My apologetic nature took over and I tried to calm the woman's irritation. Every kind word I shared was countered by a rude response. When it was all over, I felt so horrible. I hadn't meant to annoy anyone. It had all been a mistake, and yet the coldness of the woman I accidentally called created a sense of unrest in my soul. In reflection of this incident, I had a thought. Maybe the world would truly be a more peaceful place if we consciously treated wrong number situations as an opportunity to interact with someone new and as a chance to promote peace on a global level? Just something to consider the next time someone accidentally dials you. Will you be a vehicle for peace or an instrument for war?

Amgen Tour 2008

The Amgen Tour of California is back on the Central Coast. It has been a vicious week of weather for the riders who have battled strong head winds and some rain. Can you spot Tom Boonen in the peloton?

Sequoian Snow Fest...

In a seemingly winterless reality, a need for cold precipitation can drive even the sanest individuals over the edge. Well, that is just what happened last weekend when we set out on our first Sequoian Snow Fest. Moderation has never been one of our strengths, and consequently over the duration of a four day weekend, we did an excessive amount of snow-shoeing, slept one too many nights on the frozen earth, and traversed endless curvy roads in our car. Our rewards far outweighed the trials, however, as the beautiful Kings Canyon and Sequoia Park landscape enveloped us with its beauty. We were particularly impressed by the Sequoian beasts that stand as silent testaments to living history. The General Sherman Tree (pictured below) is supposedly the biggest tree in the world, by volume. What an honor to walk among these natural beauties!

Butterfly dance...

As the winter begins to soften here, the "local" monarchs have become restless. Their destinies are about to be realized, as they take their last "dance" in Santa Barbara, and begin their journey north. Though I am sad to see the monarchs leave, I feel encouraged that the cycle continues.