Rubel Farms

Last night, I learned that Michael Clarke Rubel died. Most of you will not know who this man is or what he did. For some of you, a visual immediately pops in your head and hopefully some fond memories as well.

If you grew up in Glendora, Ca as I did or in a nearby town you most likely have seen Michael's (the only adult that I can ever remember addressing by their first name as a child) life work.
Over a number of years, Michael and a slew of helpers built Rubel Castle where an orange packing plant once operated. It wasn't grand or opulent, but it was certainly the most castle-like place I had ever had the privilege of roaming around in when I was kid. This place held such fascination for me. It was completely odd, magical and intriguing all at the same time.

It was also a commune of sorts as it was home to artists of all kinds and people who were devoted to the cause of seeing this place built. The news brought back a lot of memories of my friend Sue who introduced me to Michael and his world. Her mom later went on to marry him and undoubtedly brought much joy to him and others at the castle. I am saddened for their loss, but thankful for the opportunity to have been able to step inside a different world that captivated my imagination.
You can see a short clip here.

Goodbye Sweet Home

As I write this, Scott is back in Delaware handling all the many details on the house. The packers have started boxing up all our belongings. In a couple of days it will be completely empty. It's hard for me to even think about it. There are so many things we have loved about this house, but most of all it's the dear friends and neighbors who really made it feel like home. It's up to the relo company to finalize the deal. They need to come through for us by Friday in order for us to close on the house in TX.

A Glimpse Into Our Future?

We got a knock on our door yesterday which rarely (if ever) happens. I looked out the peep hole and couldn't see anyone so I opened the door (ya, I know). There stood a little boy who he said just wanted to introduce himself. It went something like this. "Hi, my name is Nicholas and um... I go to the same school with Elie... and um... I um, well... I like her." Long pause on my part... How does one respond to something like this? I was caught completely off guard. After all, I was hoping for the UPS man not a bold 4th grade boy with a crush. I simply said "Oh" and asked if he came to see Elie. He said no and went on to tell me he wasn't in the same class (he's in Ms. Parker's class) and what apartment he lives in. Is this typical these days? I would have loved to see Scott open the door on this one. Can you imagine???

It was just as well that Elie didn't come to the door. She was in her room crying because she had over-heard me talking to our realtor. It looks like our offer is going to go through on a home. It's the fourth offer we've made on a house so it would be really nice if this was the one. I'm not sending out change of address cards yet... there are far too many details that need to be worked out first. The relocation company that we've been dealing with is trying their hardest to see that we are not relocated (at least not smoothly anyway). Even though the home is only a couple of blocks from our current location, the girls will have to change schools. Something they have prayed hard would not happen. Here are some pics. I'll keep you all posted on the final outcome. Thank you for your prayers that all will work out despite the obstacles.

Soul Food

We had the opportunity to see Calling Levi this past weekend in Arlington (about 1 hr south westish from us and 10 minutes from the Pages). God is sooo good to bring people into your lives just when you need them. It was so amazing just seeing them here and then having the opportunity to worship with them. Priceless. For those of you who aren't familiar with Calling Levi you need to check them out here. They have incredible vocals and a burning desire to share Jesus's love. We love their Glimpse of You CD. We are looking forward to seeing them again in January. Want to join us?

Eggs, Bread and Autographs

What do you get when you go grocery shopping? The girls came home from Albertsons with the Cowboy Cheerleader's autographs (by the way, Rodger, we got one for you too! And they're looking forward to seeing you at "The" game next month).
Elie won a football shaped cake that we ate for dessert. Ashely wondered why we even bothered with all the hoopla when daddy cheers for the Redskins. Clearly she felt like she was somehow betraying his team. However, Gracie announced on the car ride home that she might want to be a cheerleader when she grows up. Oh boy!

Skipping on Sunshine

I just had to take this picture of Isabel's carefree little world. When was the last time something made you so happy you just had to skip? Sometimes I skip with Isabel because she makes me happy, but most of the time I keep the skipping hidden in my heart. Skip today and make someone wonder what it is bursting forth in your life...

BIG things I've noticed

- The sky is really BIG here!
- Contrary to what everyone thinks, not all girls have BIG hair orBIG bxxbs here (but there is a lot of skinny blonde walking around).
- No suprise. Football is a really BIG deal here. People live and breathe it! The city of Southlake, Tx is over the top football.
- They may not be sporting "Texas" across their t-shirts (like the Delawareans (?) wear "Delaware"), but their homes scream Texas pride. They love decorating with these really BIG metal Texas stars. They also have a thing for leather couches and chairs.- Bling studded belts and purses also seem to be a BIG deal here. Are they popular where you are too? You know I'll be getting me a belt just as soon as I can find my waist! Sam Moon looks like a fun place to find these BIG deals.