Classical music

I have such a love for all styles of music but especially classical music. Vivaldi, Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert, Handel are just some of my favorite composers. I was raised on classical music, developed a love for it and had the privilege of playing it as I learnt how to play the piano.I used to listen to it when I was studying in school. They have found that classical music actually helps motivate and stimulate your brain to focus and work efficiently. I now listen to it at work. Especially when I need to focus on minute writing. I love to put it on at home as well on a day like today where it is raining, damp and cold. What better than to sit on the couch snuggled in a blanket, with a great book, listening to classical music while the fire place is on and sipping a cup of tea. "Sigh"

It is hard to explain but classical music you experience more than just listen too. I love to let the music soak into my bones and relax me. There is nothing like seeing it live at the VSO. (Vancouver Symphony Orchestra) If I were rich I would have a season pass to go throughout the year. I have gone a couple of times and love every time I do. No words can be expressed to explain the instruments sound & the musicians interpretation of the composers music that has been around for centuries. Just glorious!

I'm so thankful for the gift of music. If this is what it is like on earth, I can't wait until heaven to hear God's symphony of angels for all eternity. :)

Happy Anniversary!

A quick note to say HAPPY 37th ANNIVERSARY to my Mom & Dad! Thank you both for being such an example on how to make a relationship work. Even through good and bad you reached for the Lord and as He showered you with His love, you then in return showered each other with love. I hope today is a day full of remembering the story of how God brought you together. Who says blind dates never work? . . . . You are proof it does. :)

We love you both!

One week today

One week today we will be off to see Mom & Dad Rourke in the Maritimes! As each day passes I get so excited and anxious all at the same time due to what I have to get accomplished at work before I leave. On top of that there are my piano students to have all lined up for the fall, errands to run and laundry and packing. It will come together as it always does but it is the initial look at everything on my list that is a bit overwhelming. Good thing I still have 7 days to get it all done.

The Beatitudes

I've been reading in Matthew this week in the Message bible and have been really challenged by the beatitudes. I love to read the message bible as it is a fresh perspective on scripture. I hope this encourages you today to know we are BLESSED in good times and bad and in all areas of life if we know Christ.

Matt. 5: 3-10 (Jesus speaking)

"You're blessed when you're at the end of your rope. With less of you there is more of God and his rule.
You're blessed when you feel you've lost what is most dear to you. Only then can you be embraced by the One most dear to you.
You're blessed when you're content with just who you are—no more, no less. That's the moment you find yourselves proud owners of everything that can't be bought.
You're blessed when you've worked up a good appetite for God. He's food and drink in the best meal you'll ever eat.
You're blessed when you care. At the moment of being 'care-full,' you find yourselves cared for.
You're blessed when you get your inside world—your mind and heart—put right. Then you can see God in the outside world.
You're blessed when you can show people how to cooperate instead of compete or fight. That's when you discover who you really are, and your place in God's family.
You're blessed when your commitment to God provokes persecution. The persecution drives you even deeper into God's kingdom."

Have a wonderful weekend everyone! We are blessed.

Celebrating 150 yrs. for BC

Monday Lance and I headed down to Fort Langley to celebrate BC's 150 birthday! Where better than where Langley began. Lance had never been to the Fort and I thought it was about time for him to experience it and due to it being free admission, it was the perfect opportunity. :) We had a fun day full of exploring the Fort that was done up with everyone in character from 150 yrs ago. We learnt a lot about our history and also ran into Jay & Sarah and my nephew. We then made our way to the main strip and had fun browsing in all the great little shops including the hat shop. Such a fun day.

A few photos from the day