one that desires to excel should endeavor in those things that are in themselves most excellent . . . epictetus

she was born with a spirit that would seek excellence. if the ability to complete a task well did not come naturally to her, she worked hard and studied, observed and learned and soon succeeded in performing the mission as if it were second nature. whether it be gliding down the snowy mountain slopes in excellent form, mastering the art of watercolor, chalk or oil, graduating with a double major, completing medical school and today successfully completing her residency program, it has all been done with solid faith and determination.

the journey has not been easy. there have been major trials and defeats, but there have been glory days as well and like the true olympian that she is, she has obtained her "gold". Margaret Thatcher once said, "look at the day when you are supremely satisfied at the end. it's not a day when you lounge around doing nothing. it's when you've had everything to do, and you've done it."

she did it! all the while with the faith that "for with God, all things are possible." congratulations dr. sarah connors petersen.

and because "no bird soars too high if he soars with his own wings." (william blake), kudos to Dave Petersen, Timo, Anna, Cori and David!

we are so proud of you all!

long awaited pictures

i finally got around to downloading pictures from last thanksgiving! the family room was turned into dining room for 40. (actually 39, 1 was a wee babe)










we took pictures of the gang that was here and really missed those who were not!














the pies which were as delicious as they look are one of the reasons that those of us over 50 look the way we do!








the last pic is the one of the gang entire - at least those who were here. minus bryan and stacy who walked in just as we finished taking pictures.

be careful

seems like some whom i love and hold dear are having a few struggles lately. it could be the time of year. it could be the time of life. patty griffin's song "be careful" puts into lyric and music more beautifully than i can how i wish everyone would treat those tender souls i love. take a listen. we should all take heed of the consequences of careless behavior around others.

yuck

i had a bad dream within a bad dream! and i still can't shake it. that's just not fair!