I am a strange one when it comes to movies, especially the feel-good, motivational type. I almost always dig in my heels, not wanting to watch them. Part of me detests the cheesiness, and part of me dreads the inevitable upheaval of deep emotions that I encounter as I continue through the story.
-----
Yet, despite my unwillingness, I almost always love them.
-----
"The Blind Side" was no exception.
-----
I have put off watching it now for many months, despite hearing its praises from friends and strangers, even my teenage daughter. Heidi said it was"really good," with the emphasis only a teenager could add.
-----
So I gave in and rented it. As I was watching it last night I laughed more than I expected, cried just as much as I anticipated, and was thoroughly moved and entertained. It truly is a must-see.
The story, which amazingly is based on the lives of real people, really touched me. It made me ponder about what this world would be like if everyone befriended and helped inspire just one person. It would truly be a different place. And then it made me consider my own life. Have I been reaching out to those in need who are around me? Am I paying attention to the whisperings of the Spirit, prompting me to act when I might otherwise look the other way, or make that phone call another time? Have I hugged my children today and told them that I love them and am so proud of them?
-----
There can never be enough movies like that.
16 Years Together=
Happy Anniversary, Babe!!
Eric, Heidi, and Ethan took Dad to climb Mt. Pilchuck on Friday afternoon. It was a gorgeous day, perfect for hiking!
What can beat standing on top of the world?!
On Saturday we drove up to Deception Pass on Whidbey Island. It was considerably more crowded than usual, with some roped off areas and law enforcement. When we asked a park ranger what was going on he said they were having a celebration for the bridge's 75th Anniversary. They closed the bridge off for several minutes, and let a line of antique cars drive over it for a photo op.
Down the road from Deception Pass is Fort Casey. We made a stop there and had fun chasing kids around the old fort and barracks.
What topped off the weekend came on Sunday, however. My dad was able to ordain Eric to be a High Priest in our church. He gave him a really beautiful blessing, which I know will give Eric a lot of strength as he embarks on his new assignment. Our Stake President then set him apart to be on the High Council, which entails a lot of responsibility in helping the members of our Stake. I am so proud of him, knowing that he is both worthy and capable of such an important assignment. It also meant a great deal to me and Eric that my dad was able to be a part of it!
Heidi, my master-photographer-in-the-making, took these for me, as I was busy making dinner. I was jealous that I didn't get to do some as well! These were all taken just down the road from Eric's parents house.
Eric decided his parents were in desperate need of a new front porch. So, with the help of his brother Nic and cousin Danny, they constructed this beautiful new deck while we were there.
It took three days, and several trips to Lowe's, but the finished product was well worth the effort!!
The kids had so much fun with cousins!!!
The picture doesn't do it justice. This is what it looks like after three hours of wrestling at church! Still pretty cute, though! She looks like the little French Madeline character in the children's book.
