tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16997691135503654522024-03-05T14:35:20.023-08:00Savoring the SimpleMarvett Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699743828929373260noreply@blogger.comBlogger472125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1699769113550365452.post-90605497739705633472014-06-05T05:00:00.000-07:002014-06-05T07:26:49.025-07:00June 5 on 5<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I can't believe that it's already time for another five on five. The month has flown by. I thought I would share a handful of pictures from the month of May and what life consisted of for me. It was pretty easy to sum up. First off is softball with my girls. We pretty much live at the ballpark more than we live at home. They are in the full swing of things with their seasons and loving every minute of it. I have to say for softball not really being my sport I have really grown to love it and there is not many other places I would rather be than watching my two favorite girls. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">April 30th also marked one year since my dad passed away. It's been a really rough year and life has changed so much. My priorities, my focus, basically everything. Life just isn't the same without him here, but we are finding our way through the fog together. I wish he were still here to sit next to me at my girls' games. There wasn't many things that he enjoyed more than watching softball and I miss him tremendously. I wish he were here to see my Lou play. It was something he didn't get to see while he was still here, but I know he is watching from a distance. I'm certain that he is so proud, and I know he is still with us. We visited his grave on Memorial Day together as a family. It is such a place of peace for me. I'm grateful to be surrounded by family that understand all too well how I feel. I know they miss him as much as I do. He is definitely not forgotten. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For more five on five please visit my friend <a href="http://www.naomi-liesterphotography.com/blog" target="_blank">Naomi's blog</a> and follow the circle.</span><a href="http://i669.photobucket.com/albums/vv51/marvettsmith/IMG_0945_2fb_zps3c4bde90.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i669.photobucket.com/albums/vv51/marvettsmith/IMG_0945_2fb_zps3c4bde90.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a><br />
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<br />Marvett Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699743828929373260noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1699769113550365452.post-46171451685645475012014-05-05T05:00:00.000-07:002014-05-05T05:00:12.811-07:00May 5 on 5<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am so grateful to have been invited to join an amazingly talented group of women to share five on five each month. I have been away from the blogging world for several months now. We've been adjusting over the last year to life without my dad, me finishing school, and changes in my job and our every day life. I'm excited to be back in this space again and most of all to be creative with my camera again. I decided to share some of our Easter pictures from last month since it was such a beautiful day and it's been such a long time since I've captured some memories of my family with my camera. My kids have grown so much, but even as they get bigger I'm hoping to continue documenting our life here. They enjoyed the Easter egg hunt this year. They were each assigned two colors to find so that it was fair and fun for each of them. Let's just say the yellow eggs were a little tough to find with so many dandelions in the pasture. It was a fun day though, and I'm grateful that even though they are getting older they still enjoy spending these special days together. It's my favorite place to be. For more five on five head over to my good friend <a href="http://www.naomi-liesterphotography.com/blog" target="_blank">Naomi's blog</a>. Enjoy.</span></div>
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<br />Marvett Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699743828929373260noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1699769113550365452.post-20910504976945488452014-01-09T17:17:00.000-08:002014-01-09T17:17:42.517-08:00Fresh<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's been a while since I've been here. Life has been busy, and I enjoyed some quiet time with my family over the holidays. I'm here today with the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thecreativityproject" target="_blank">Creativity Project</a> sharing my take on the theme for the month. I haven't spent a lot of time with my big camera in a while now. In fact I think the last time I shot with it was in November. Like I said, life has been crazy, but just recently during my winter break with my family I finally felt inspired to take some pictures again. Last year was a rough one for our family and at one point in time life just sort of stopped. It's still extremely busy, but it feels good to look around and feel the need to pick up my camera again. When I thought about the theme for the month that was exactly what came to my mind. Fresh. A fresh new year and an opportunity for a fresh perspective. The first picture in the series below was taken with my big camera, but the rest are all shot with my phone. I've been sharing pictures and stories daily over on Instagram. For now it's the best I can do with all that I have to juggle, and I'm okay with it. The quality isn't perfect, but they do show a fresh start for me. A new chapter in my life and a new year to begin again. I'll get my big camera back in my hands soon enough, but for now I'm grateful for the opportunity to pull my phone out of my pocket and capture things like this. It feels good just to take pictures again. For more fresh pictures head over to my friend <a href="http://creativeheartbystephanie.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Stephanie's blog</a> and follow the circle.</span><br />
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Marvett Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699743828929373260noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1699769113550365452.post-59771574375228940512013-11-11T04:00:00.000-08:002013-11-11T04:00:09.612-08:00Faceless Portraits<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm interrupting my gratitude project (which I'm terribly behind on) to join my friends at the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thecreativityproject" target="_blank">Creativity Project</a> to share some of my favorite faceless portraits from this year. I'm especially grateful for the images of my dad. They document some of my favorite and last days with him. To me they capture so much about who he was. For me they are priceless. To see more amazing images head over to <a href="http://so-i-blog.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">S Badiyah Austin's blog.</a> Her work is beautiful!</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/8701160207/" title="Sitting Up by Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple), on Flickr"><img alt="Sitting Up" height="426" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8551/8701160207_5de5661031_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/9416768762/" title="Ninjas by Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple), on Flickr"><img alt="Ninjas" height="426" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7406/9416768762_f145500d4e_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/8149458046/" title="Service by Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple), on Flickr"><img alt="Service" height="426" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8046/8149458046_eedd73ce3e_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/7434441330/" title="Behind by Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple), on Flickr"><img alt="Behind" height="426" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5333/7434441330_57ee0cbf43_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/7269259026/" title="I Am Powerful by Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple), on Flickr"><img alt="I Am Powerful" height="426" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7088/7269259026_8da96e7181_b.jpg" width="640" /></a>Marvett Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699743828929373260noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1699769113550365452.post-50983414763905554442013-11-03T15:11:00.001-08:002013-11-03T15:12:38.981-08:00Happy Memories<div style="font-size: 0.8em; line-height: 1.6em; margin: 0 0 10px 0; padding: 0;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/10658014633/" title="Happy Memories"><img alt="Happy Memories by Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple)" height="426" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7451/10658014633_6f9a31a007.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<span style="margin: 0;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/10658014633/">Happy Memories</a>, a photo by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/">Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple)</a> on Flickr.</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Gratitude Day 3- Happy Memories. I am so grateful for the ability to look back on days like this one and smile. This photo was taken just after our last vacation with my dad. It was also the last day that we went for a walk outside with him at home. My kids happily raced their bikes back to the house laughing and squealing as they tried to catch up with grandpa. They had no idea that in just another month he would be gone. This picture reminds me that it's the little moments like this one and the time that we spend together that matter the most, and being able to recall the memories of this day are so valuable to me.</span>Marvett Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699743828929373260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1699769113550365452.post-2041779160886914132013-11-01T13:04:00.001-07:002013-11-01T13:08:01.447-07:00Us<div style="font-size: 0.8em; line-height: 1.6em; margin: 0 0 10px 0; padding: 0;">
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/10614624446/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Us"><img alt="Us by Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple)" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5546/10614624446_0496c568ed.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="margin: 0;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/10614624446/">Us</a>, a photo by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/">Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple)</a> on Flickr.</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Gratitude Day 1- The first thing that I think of when I contemplate blessings in my life is family. I honestly don't know where I would be without them. I am so grateful for all that they teach me, for the happiness that they share with me, and for knowing that they will always be my soft place to fall. They are my team, and I would be completely lost without them. I love them more than words can say. I am so grateful for us.</span>Marvett Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699743828929373260noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1699769113550365452.post-57578493810596630732013-10-31T11:35:00.001-07:002013-10-31T11:36:13.491-07:00Nerd Alert!<div style="font-size: 0.8em; line-height: 1.6em; margin: 0 0 10px 0; padding: 0;">
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/10595660765/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Nerd Alert!"><img alt="Nerd Alert! by Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple)" height="640" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3676/10595660765_bb530d8c0c.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<span style="margin: 0;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/10595660765/">Nerd Alert!</a>, a photo by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/">Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple)</a> on Flickr.</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Happy Halloween from my little nerd. I'm gearing up to start my gratitude project and that means dusting off my camera and visiting this space more often. The last few months have been rough, but I'm really hoping to make some time to share more here. It's good therapy, and I would hate to miss out on documenting good stuff like this!</span>Marvett Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699743828929373260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1699769113550365452.post-26478476857023493162013-08-25T20:09:00.001-07:002013-08-25T20:11:08.418-07:00Early Morning<div style="font-size: 0.8em; line-height: 1.6em; margin: 0 0 10px 0; padding: 0;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/9584093274/" title="Early morning with my buddy. This is where he ends up when dad works all night. #letthekidsbelittle #littlebellows #thesearethemomentsithankgodthatimalive #dimplekid #pictapgo_app"><img alt="Early morning with my buddy. This is where he ends up when dad works all night. #letthekidsbelittle #littlebellows #thesearethemomentsithankgodthatimalive #dimplekid #pictapgo_app by Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple)" height="640" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3698/9584093274_d44de64866.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<span style="margin: 0;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/9584093274/">Early morning with my buddy. This is where he ends up when dad works all night. #letthekidsbelittle #littlebellows #thesearethemomentsithankgodthatimalive #dimplekid #pictapgo_app</a>, a photo by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/">Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple)</a> on Flickr.</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We've had a crazy couple of weeks. School started last week and we are getting settled into new routines and schedules. As much as I hate to see school start again, I do love the organization that comes with it. I am a major planner. Always have been always will be, and having a schedule in place brings a sense of safety and peace for me. It's much needed these days. I think this has been our roughest month since my dad's passing. Big changes, and lots of emotions as we long to have grandpa here to talk us through things. We are still learning to live on in a life without him. It still feels so strange, but along with the peace that routine brings, so does the safety of family time and we seem to have more of it lately. For that I am extremely grateful. Moments like this early morning with my best buddy are definitely moments that I record in my heart for reflection on rainy days. My beautiful boy stayed close by my side on a night when JM had to work the graveyard shift. Watching him resting peacefully in this beautiful light reminded me that I do indeed have much to be grateful for.</span>Marvett Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699743828929373260noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1699769113550365452.post-75985921383735783322013-08-18T19:26:00.000-07:002013-08-18T19:26:03.208-07:00Summer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I can't believe that summer is coming to an end. I feel like it snuck up and blindsided me. I am trying hard not to feel guilty these days about our summer and the way we spent our time. There is no place on earth that I would rather be than making memories with my three punks, but this summer was not a normal one. I spent most of my time studying for a class that I was taking, and when I wasn't studying I was mostly wandering around feeling lost. Summer has been an especially hard time for all of us without my dad here. I had so many plans mapped out at the beginning of the year for how we would spend our time with grandpa and then suddenly he was gone. I don't know how to explain it other than I just feel lost. Our normal summers usually consist of camping, and trips to the cabin, but this year that didn't happen. Instead my three hooligans spent lots and lots of time in our own house and in the backyard. They spent several days at the pool and lots of nights right in the backyard on the trampoline. I think they enjoyed themselves, and from the looks on their faces in these images from their last sleep out, I think they actually had fun. I'm trying to remember that they are resilient and that one out of the ordinary summer won't leave them scarred for life. It eases my guilt trip a little bit. Hopefully we will have a lot more laughter and fun in the summer of 2014. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for it anyway.</span></div>
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<br />Marvett Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699743828929373260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1699769113550365452.post-14440447137194043452013-08-11T17:59:00.001-07:002013-08-11T18:01:16.446-07:00Sale Day<div style="font-size: 0.8em; line-height: 1.6em; margin: 0 0 10px 0; padding: 0;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/9491610028/" title="Sale day at the fair! Goodbye Scarlett the lamb."><img alt="Sale day at the fair! Goodbye Scarlett the lamb. by Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple)" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2837/9491610028_25301695a6.jpg" /></a><br />
<span style="margin: 0;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/9491610028/">Sale day at the fair! Goodbye Scarlett the lamb.</a>, a photo by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/">Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple)</a> on Flickr.</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Just popping in after a long week at the fair. This was sale day for my little cowgirl. After lots of hard work raising Scarlett the lamb today was the final day with her and we said goodbye. I have lots more pictures, but this one was one of my very favorites. I was so proud of my Lou. She took 3rd in her class showing her lamb. I'll post more pictures soon.</span>Marvett Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699743828929373260noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1699769113550365452.post-48809340486004226712013-08-01T08:46:00.002-07:002013-08-01T08:46:59.993-07:00The Ninjas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Back in the early spring my boy played his second year of recreation baseball. His team was called The Ninjas. This year they upgraded from t-ball to coach-pitch. It was interesting to say the least. During every game I would sit on the sidelines and cringe as I watched approximately 14 little boys surround the coach and smother him with requests to play 1st base, catcher, and pitcher. I swear that man was a saint. He patiently smiled and waited for them to stop jumping up and down and pulling on his shirt to give them their field assignments. He tried hard to mix things up, but honestly I don't think he could remember who played where each time because of all of the chaos. The other thing that happened on a consistent basis was the crowding and pushing that happened each time it was our turn to bat. In the beginning of the season they all wanted to bat first, but about halfway through the season they figured out that if they got to bat last they actually got to run around all of the bases. This was when even more craziness ensued. They made a squiggly line to get in order, and the coaches had to monitor them closely since some of them insisted on practicing their swing in the middle of the mess. I was certain that someone would come out of it with a head injury, but luckily the boys came out okay in the end. Here is a list of my favorite parts of watching my boy this year.</span></div>
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<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">He desperately wanted to play the game with people in the right positions. Obviously he has attended a little too much of his sister's softball games and practices because he was completely frustrated that the boys did not stay in the right spots on the field. He was upset time after time that they weren't "playing together as a team". This gives me hope for the future that he might actually want to follow some rules in his life. ;)</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">He had some pretty darn good skills. I was impressed to see how much his game had grown in just one year. He has improved so much, and he definitely has an arm on him. He was known on the team as the kid who could throw the ball from right field to 3rd base with no problem at all. I guess all of the wrestling that he does with his sisters is paying off.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">He paid attention much better this year than last year. Although he did spend a little time visiting with the players on the other team when they were in the outfield, it was nothing compared to last year. I was so happy to see him watching the ball and wanting to get the outs instead of what happened last year. His famous quote from last year while playing first base and talking to every runner that made it there goes like this, "I hate this team mom! I'm over there on 1st base minding my own business talking with my friend and the team keeps throwing the ball at my head." Um yeah... this year he actually caught on that when he was playing first base they weren't throwing the ball at his head, but they were trying to get the runner out. He did a lot less chatting with the runner this year. Whew!</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">His hitting was awesome! Although he can still use work on his technique, he consistently hit very well and he hit hard. You will witness the anger in his face in the batting picture below. I'm glad he had this avenue to get his aggression out. I know from experience that it can be therapeutic.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Last but not least, my very favorite thing about watching him play this year was the thumbs up that I got from him every time he did something well. This never failed. If he got a good hit and made it to base he would quickly scan the crowd to find me and give me a thumbs up. If he made a good play in the outfield he would do the same thing. Best part of the thumbs up though? The smile and the dimples that go with it. I sure love him and he knows it. I can't wait until next year to see him play again!</span><a href="http://i669.photobucket.com/albums/vv51/marvettsmith/IMG_9279_2fb_zps04f0db1b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i669.photobucket.com/albums/vv51/marvettsmith/IMG_9279_2fb_zps04f0db1b.jpg" /></a><a href="http://i669.photobucket.com/albums/vv51/marvettsmith/IMG_9280_2blog_zps29da4473.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i669.photobucket.com/albums/vv51/marvettsmith/IMG_9280_2blog_zps29da4473.jpg" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"></span></a><a href="http://i669.photobucket.com/albums/vv51/marvettsmith/IMG_9289_2fb_zps221f0436.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i669.photobucket.com/albums/vv51/marvettsmith/IMG_9289_2fb_zps221f0436.jpg" /></a><a href="http://i669.photobucket.com/albums/vv51/marvettsmith/IMG_9287_2blog_zpse6ee9253.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i669.photobucket.com/albums/vv51/marvettsmith/IMG_9287_2blog_zpse6ee9253.jpg" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"></span></a><a href="http://i669.photobucket.com/albums/vv51/marvettsmith/IMG_9291_2blog_zpsaf26dfac.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i669.photobucket.com/albums/vv51/marvettsmith/IMG_9291_2blog_zpsaf26dfac.jpg" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"><a href="http://i669.photobucket.com/albums/vv51/marvettsmith/IMG_9290_2blog_zps18dbc133.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i669.photobucket.com/albums/vv51/marvettsmith/IMG_9290_2blog_zps18dbc133.jpg" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"></span></a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"><a href="http://i669.photobucket.com/albums/vv51/marvettsmith/IMG_9297_2blog_zps209fe27c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i669.photobucket.com/albums/vv51/marvettsmith/IMG_9297_2blog_zps209fe27c.jpg" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"></span></a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"><a href="http://i669.photobucket.com/albums/vv51/marvettsmith/IMG_9298_2blog_zps02d5dcc0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i669.photobucket.com/albums/vv51/marvettsmith/IMG_9298_2blog_zps02d5dcc0.jpg" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"></span></a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"><a href="http://i669.photobucket.com/albums/vv51/marvettsmith/IMG_9285_2blog_zpsb614309c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i669.photobucket.com/albums/vv51/marvettsmith/IMG_9285_2blog_zpsb614309c.jpg" /></a></span></li>
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<br />Marvett Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699743828929373260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1699769113550365452.post-15970225341487023292013-07-30T19:21:00.001-07:002013-07-30T19:22:08.086-07:003 Months<div style="font-size: 0.8em; line-height: 1.6em; margin: 0 0 10px 0; padding: 0;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/9403524917/" title="3 Months"><img alt="3 Months by Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple)" height="426" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7383/9403524917_909504abb2.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<span style="margin: 0;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/9403524917/">3 Months</a>, a photo by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/">Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple)</a> on Flickr.</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3 months. It's been three months today since my dad passed away. I've been thinking about him all day, and about some of the last days we spent together. I thought I shared all of the pictures from our time together while he was in the nursing home, but then I came across this one. This is from our last walk together when we stopped to take a break and eat some popcorn. He actually enjoyed a few minutes of eating one of his favorite snacks and talking with my girl while she and my mom put a puzzle together. You may wonder why he is blurry in all of the images I've posted. I was trying hard to be respectful of his experience, but at the same time I wanted to preserve time. I've loved photography for a long time, but it means so much more to me now. I'm so grateful that I have these images of our last days spent together. They help to flood my mind with all of the things that we talked about and shared. They bring back the details of things that might be lost otherwise, and I wish I had more. I'm so grateful for the story that they tell, and coming across this image, the last one I have of my mom and dad together with his special granddaughter is priceless. We will cherish it forever. Get your camera out and use it often. You don't have to be an expert. Pictures are the next best thing to memories filed away in your heart.</span>Marvett Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699743828929373260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1699769113550365452.post-28279657366189669582013-07-28T15:22:00.001-07:002013-07-28T15:24:40.181-07:00Colonel<div style="font-size: 0.8em; line-height: 1.6em; margin: 0 0 10px 0; padding: 0;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/9386038683/" title="Colonel"><img alt="Colonel by Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple)" height="426" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7377/9386038683_79d53b2bed.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<span style="margin: 0;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/9386038683/">Colonel</a>, a photo by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/">Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple)</a> on Flickr.</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Back on the 4th of July my Lou wanted to participate in the local chicken chase. There were literally hundreds of kids that joined in and only a handful of chickens so I figured what could the harm be. I never thought that she would walk back after the chaos ensued with a chicken cradled in her arms. That is exactly what she did. I swear she is a real live animal whisperer. They just seem to love her, and this is definitely the case with her new chicken Colonel. He seems to think he is a dog. He follows her around the yard, he whines at the back door when she comes inside (no kidding), and he climbs into her lap when he's feeling insecure. I've never seen anything like it. I guess when he starts barking I will really worry. In the meantime if there are any chicken experts out there, feel free to weigh in on if Colonel is a he or a she. It would be a good thing to know. :)</span>Marvett Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699743828929373260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1699769113550365452.post-42330227277301960052013-07-26T10:36:00.001-07:002013-07-26T10:36:57.461-07:00The Turkey<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When dad passed away at the end of April life changed dramatically. Life still went on of course, but it changed big time. In the course of that change some of our memories ended up being stored on the computer. I had forgotten until just the other day as I was sifting through my archives that some of the best things that happened were never shared here in this space that I like to keep for my hooligans. So... I'm going to do some major catching up here. Back in May my little man finally got to experience his first hunting trip with his dad. He has been waiting for this for a long time, and the excitement has been building and building. He could not wait for the day to arrive, and he spent the evening before carefully prepping food, clothes, his BB gun, and anything else he could think of to help make his trip a successful one. He happily bounced out of bed at 3:30 the next morning to head out with his mind focused on one task. Coming home with a turkey. He and JM used up every ounce of sunlight before they returned home late that night, and guess what? They were successful. The day that Doop had dreamed of played out just like he had imagined. The best part of the whole experience for the rest of us was the next few days. We had the opportunity to not only listen to his stories, but we were able to watch him act them out. It was the best! The story continued throughout the following weeks as he told it to each of his friends over and over. I'm happy that he was able to have such a great experience with his dad. I know better than anyone that moments and days like the one they had together are worth more than anything. It's something he will never forget.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Oh yeah. He had a wiggly tooth back then too. It has since fallen out, but the hillbilly tooth added to the character in these pictures. In fact, I was a little worried that Duck Dynasty might call saying they wanted their kid back. I swear.</span></div>
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<a href="http://i669.photobucket.com/albums/vv51/marvettsmith/IMG_8757_2blog_zps88d52da7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i669.photobucket.com/albums/vv51/marvettsmith/IMG_8757_2blog_zps88d52da7.jpg" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"></span></a><a href="http://i669.photobucket.com/albums/vv51/marvettsmith/IMG_8748_2fb_zps10cb1187.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i669.photobucket.com/albums/vv51/marvettsmith/IMG_8748_2fb_zps10cb1187.jpg" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"><a href="http://i669.photobucket.com/albums/vv51/marvettsmith/IMG_8760_2blog_zpsa48a64f8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i669.photobucket.com/albums/vv51/marvettsmith/IMG_8760_2blog_zpsa48a64f8.jpg" /></a></span></div>
<br />Marvett Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699743828929373260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1699769113550365452.post-77134596012434790142013-07-24T12:08:00.000-07:002013-07-24T12:08:00.132-07:00Driving<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Each year at this time during the summer we gather the family together and head out to the field to haul hay. It comes every year during the hottest time of the summer, and there never seems to be a convenient time. It's a job that each of us dreads, and although we start out pretty strong, we fade quickly as we load, unload, and reload the trailer several times in an effort to fill up the barn. This year was no different. The one big change for this year was that the kids have grown, and therefore their help is much more valuable. It's no secret that my boy dreams about driving his dad's truck. He loves riding in it each time it comes out of the garage, but every once in a while he gets the privilege of sitting on JM's lap to finish the drive down the short road that enters our driveway and each time this happens he is beyond thrilled. Each year at hay hauling time he is always hopeful that he will finally get a turn to drive the truck and trailer. Each year we have told him that he isn't big enough and to ask again next summer. His summer finally arrived. On our second evening of hauling hay, we started out with just JM and I and my sweet boy. He sat patiently in the back seat as we discussed how things were going to work without a driver. His eyes were wide and eager as he waited to hear if he would finally get his chance, and with no other options we relented and allowed him to climb up front and into the driver's seat. JM gave him a quick lesson on how all of the controls worked after moving the seat forward as far as it would go, and suddenly my boy realized his dream of getting to drive the hay truck. I must admit that in the beginning I was a little nervous, but honestly he did an amazing job. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">He did a great job at always checking his mirrors to see if there was hay on either side, and he kept his foot on the brake just enough to allow the truck to creep slowly enough that we could work and yet still be efficient.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">He also did a great job of watching the stackers on top of the load, and he eased on and off of the brake and the gas just enough to allow them to work without throwing them off. He was an expert.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Now and then he would ask for a water break. Apparently driving the truck is hard work. When you are small enough that your legs just reach the pedals, and you nervous about doing a good job it tends to really take it out of you. This was not a job I ever experienced. I was reminded of that as I watched my boy and his dad interact during this short stop. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">JM inherited these hay hauling chaps from my dad. He used to wear these when I was a young girl. I remember how hard he worked when he wore them. The sweat on his brow, the hay stuck to his face, and these chaps on his legs. I rode in the front of the cab with my grandpa, and unlike my boy I didn't experience being a helper as much as I acted as more of a cheerleader. Dad protected me from doing any of the hard stuff, but it was still something that we enjoyed doing together. It was a family ordeal just as it is for my little family now. Hauling hay was part of our relationship just as it is for my boy and JM.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While my boy did the driving this year, my girls worked hard as well. Lou helped with unloading the trailer by rolling the bales off, and Seej worked on building up her muscles. She's working on her throwing and hitting arm and this seemed like the best workout for that purpose. I was surprised by her strength. Not only could she lift the bales this year, but she could actually throw them on the trailer too. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's good to have another year of hauling hay behind us, and I'm grateful that we had so much help. Between the hooligans, our friends, and the rest of the family we accomplished our goal and made some new memories at the same time.</span></div>
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<br />Marvett Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699743828929373260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1699769113550365452.post-47729802243589878602013-07-21T14:51:00.001-07:002013-07-21T14:52:56.890-07:00The Best Part of Summer<div style="font-size: 0.8em; line-height: 1.6em; margin: 0 0 10px 0; padding: 0;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/9336256233/" title="The Best Part of Summer"><img alt="The Best Part of Summer by Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple)" height="426" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5492/9336256233_3af9482096.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<span style="margin: 0;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/9336256233/">The Best Part of Summer</a>, a photo by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/">Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple)</a> on Flickr.</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is one of the first weeks of summer that life has actually slowed down just a bit. We are usually running so fast that we don't get to enjoy much quality time with all of us together. This week has consisted of lots of time together in the yard relaxing in the chairs, laying in the grass, and playing catch. The hooligans have been soaking in quality time with their dad, and with each other. My girl and her brother have been working on his baseball skills. I love sitting back and watching all of the relationships develop in our tiny spot of the world that we call home. It's the best part of summer for me so far.</span>Marvett Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699743828929373260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1699769113550365452.post-33299339355467874802013-07-20T12:56:00.000-07:002013-08-11T18:09:35.630-07:00Pushing<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Summer is passing by so quickly. It seems like we have been busier than usual lately. We haven't had much time to make many memories together, or maybe it's just that I'm missing those moments when they do happen. Between the pace of summer so far and the grief that I'm still carrying I feel like I'm in a bit of a daze most of the time. I can't seem to get my thoughts in order, and I can't seem to stay focused. The days come and go and I have many lists in my mind of things that need to be accomplished and things that I really want to do, but I feel like I move in circles instead of making progress. I think I'm still trying to find my sea legs. In the midst of what feels like confusion I do continue to find lots of moments to be grateful for. It's the little things that I love the very most. It's the simplest of days when I get to just slow down and be a mom that still bring me the most joy, and it's days like this one when we got to go to the "beach" that re-fill my bucket and remind me of all the things that I have to feel gratitude for. Every little bit of this trip that I took with my family and some good friends included all of the simple things that I love the very most. The wind in my hair, sand on my toes, seagulls squawking, and the water lapping at the sand. Throw in the laughter shared between good friends and conversation with new ones, and you have many minutes that have passed that could not have been better spent. Since my dad passed away in April I have been pushing. Pushing to move on. Pushing to get back to "normal". I'm starting to realize that I just need to slow down and let things be. I want to be able to fully experience days like this one more often, and that means a whole lot less pushing.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For more water images head over to <a href="http://www.sharoncovert.com/" target="_blank">Sharon Covert's blog.</a> </span><br />
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<br />Marvett Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699743828929373260noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1699769113550365452.post-24572911990945701532013-06-19T21:40:00.001-07:002013-06-19T21:42:11.307-07:00My Favorite Job<div style="font-size: 0.8em; line-height: 1.6em; margin: 0 0 10px 0; padding: 0;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/9091049528/" title="My Favorite Job"><img alt="My Favorite Job by Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple)" height="426" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5480/9091049528_f606af5ab9.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<span style="margin: 0;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/9091049528/">My Favorite Job</a>, a photo by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/">Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple)</a> on Flickr.</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm chalking this day up as another success. Days like this one are my favorite because I get to do my favorite job ever. Being the mom of this kid is pretty spectacular. He and his sisters kept me laughing out loud at the pool today. It was so needed. I can't wait for our next day together. Being their mom is my favorite job ever!</span>Marvett Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699743828929373260noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1699769113550365452.post-65107284258384774842013-06-17T16:49:00.001-07:002013-06-17T16:50:53.531-07:00My First Father's Day Without Him<div style="font-size: 0.8em; line-height: 1.6em; margin: 0 0 10px 0; padding: 0;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/9072303758/" title="My First Father's Day Without Him"><img alt="My First Father's Day Without Him by Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple)" height="426" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7387/9072303758_7a21e21366.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<span style="margin: 0;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/9072303758/">My First Father's Day Without Him</a>, a photo by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/">Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple)</a> on Flickr.</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yesterday was strange. It was the day to celebrate fathers, and mine is gone. I knew the day would be hard, but I didn't anticipate just how much. Oh how I miss him. Sometimes I think I can hear him say my name, and other times I can see his smile and hear his laugh in my mind. I hope that never goes away. I hope it stays trapped in my memory forever. We visited his resting place yesterday, and my girl left a small gift that she made for him. Last summer she and her grandpa spent many days in the shade talking, and all the while she made friendship bracelets. Each one was unique and each time she finished she would show him the final result. Now he has his own special bracelet designed just for him. She misses him as much as I do, and sometimes it is so painful to see her hurt. She misses her friend just as I do. We couldn't have asked for a better dad or grandpa. Happy Belated Father's Day to my dad, and to my wonderful husband. As my own dad told me before he passed away, "You couldn't have chosen a better husband and father for your children." Once again his wisdom rings so true. I love them both so much.</span>Marvett Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699743828929373260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1699769113550365452.post-78934831939912748872013-06-09T19:10:00.001-07:002013-06-09T19:11:05.520-07:00Ordinary Moments<div style="font-size: 0.8em; line-height: 1.6em; margin: 0 0 10px 0; padding: 0;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/9002948416/" title="Ordinary Moments"><img alt="Ordinary Moments by Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple)" height="426" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7433/9002948416_52b4d69dfd.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<span style="margin: 0;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/9002948416/">Ordinary Moments</a>, a photo by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/">Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple)</a> on Flickr.</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was meant for this. For days like this one was. For average every day moments, and opportunities to make memories with those I love most. To not only capture them with my camera, but to engrave them in my heart. I love every single ordinary moment that I get to spend with my family. Even times like this at the gas station are worth savoring.</span>Marvett Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699743828929373260noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1699769113550365452.post-35438141257248920952013-06-01T13:41:00.001-07:002013-06-01T13:42:15.744-07:00Trying<div style="font-size: 0.8em; line-height: 1.6em; margin: 0 0 10px 0; padding: 0;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/8916547660/" title="Trying"><img alt="Trying by Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple)" height="426" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2828/8916547660_b614615e6a.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<span style="margin: 0;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/8916547660/">Trying</a>, a photo by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/">Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple)</a> on Flickr.</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Trying hard to get back into the swing of things. I spent this day with Spongebob playing my favorite game of volleyball with my favorite people, and then wrestling in the grass with my sweet boy. I think summer is going to be a great time of healing for me.</span>Marvett Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699743828929373260noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1699769113550365452.post-74709619786238946712013-05-28T21:27:00.001-07:002013-05-28T21:28:12.456-07:00Sharing<div style="font-size: 0.8em; line-height: 1.6em; margin: 0 0 10px 0; padding: 0;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/8875005722/" title="Sharing"><img alt="Sharing by Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple)" height="401" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5333/8875005722_f33654e3d9.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<span style="margin: 0;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/8875005722/">Sharing</a>, a photo by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/">Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple)</a> on Flickr.</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We visited dad's grave yesterday. Because he is still resting in a quiet little spot with no marker, we have memorized the names of all of those around him so that we can easily find him until his headstone arrives. As we approached his grave, we were greeted by the bright flowers that others had left before we came. My sweet girl noticed that the headstone next to his was bare, and she couldn't deal with the thought that no one had come to pay a visit. She sweetly asked if we could share some of grandpa's flowers with the person resting there so that they would know that someone remembered them too. I smiled at her thoughtfulness, and then turned to witness my other two hooligans frantically racing through the cemetery to upright all of the flowers that had blown over in the wind. They showed such respect in this place of peace. I am so lucky to have them in my life, and so grateful for the opportunity to be their mother. They teach me so much.</span>Marvett Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699743828929373260noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1699769113550365452.post-13657863149073776742013-05-19T18:06:00.001-07:002013-05-19T18:08:01.607-07:00In the Spring<div style="font-size: 0.8em; line-height: 1.6em; margin: 0 0 10px 0; padding: 0;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/8756098230/" title="In the Spring"><img alt="In the Spring by Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple)" height="426" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7422/8756098230_acebc902b5.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<span style="margin: 0;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/8756098230/">In the Spring</a>, a photo by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/">Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple)</a> on Flickr.</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I drove by the nursing home last week. For just a moment I forgot. I was ready to pull into the parking lot and prepare myself to walk through the doors. Suddenly, I remembered as I drew closer to the entrance that dad wasn't there anymore. The only familiar feeling that I felt as I drove past was my breath catch in my throat as I took in the reality that I would not visit him there again. I guess I'm still adjusting to the fact that he is gone and sometimes it is painful, but I couldn't help but smile as the building pulled away from my view as I passed. Each time that I am overwhelmed with sadness, it is always followed by peace and assurance that dad is happy now. The spring flowers have a new meaning for me now too. They will always help to remind me of the final days that I spent with dad, and our last day outside soaking in the sun. They too bring a smile to my face when I see them dancing in the sun.</span>Marvett Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699743828929373260noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1699769113550365452.post-25899838283013359732013-05-12T15:19:00.001-07:002013-05-12T15:21:32.824-07:00The Light<div style="font-size: 0.8em; line-height: 1.6em; margin: 0 0 10px 0; padding: 0;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/8733523988/" title="The light"><img alt="The light by Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple)" height="426" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7320/8733523988_a05a9993ae.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<span style="margin: 0;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/8733523988/">The light</a>, a photo by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/">Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple)</a> on Flickr.</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“There is a light in this world, a healing spirit more powerful than any darkness we may encounter. We sometimes lose sight of this force when there is suffering, too much pain. Then suddenly, the spirit will emerge through the lives of ordinary people who hear a call and answer in extraordinary ways.” - Mother Teresa </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This rings so true for me for the last little while. Since my dad's passing, I have been the recipient of so many acts of kindness. I can't begin to say thank you enough for all that has been done on behalf of myself and my family. Moving on is so hard, but little by little we are putting one foot in front of the other. I am learning that there really is no such thing as normal. There is just right now, and I want to do my best every day to make the most of every right now that happens.</span>Marvett Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699743828929373260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1699769113550365452.post-43002300815756606432013-05-02T07:55:00.001-07:002013-05-02T07:56:20.976-07:00The Last Walk<div style="font-size: 0.8em; line-height: 1.6em; margin: 0 0 10px 0; padding: 0;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/8702289674/" title="The Last Walk"><img alt="The Last Walk by Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple)" height="426" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8125/8702289674_edabc14096.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<span style="margin: 0;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/8702289674/">The Last Walk</a>, a photo by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/43295905@N05/">Marvett Smith (Savoring the Simple)</a> on Flickr.</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Last Saturday my daughter and I took my dad outside for a walk in the warm sun. The walk was short from his room to the patio, but I wanted him to feel the sun on his face, to get some fresh air, and to see the beautiful flowers growing just outside the door. We only stayed outside for a half an hour or so before he asked to return to his room. I didn't know it at the time, but this would be our last walk together. My dad completed his suffering on Tuesday morning, and he peacefully slipped away from us. My heart is heavy at this time knowing that it will be some time before I see him again, but I also share in the happiness I know he is experiencing because he is finally free. I have great respect for those of you who have lived through this kind of grief, and I am grateful for so many strong examples. I know the coming days will be rough, but I'm thankful to have had this man in my life and to have loved him so much. I am especially grateful for the last year and all of the extra time we spent together. My little family has wonderful memories to hold onto until we see him again.</span>Marvett Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08699743828929373260noreply@blogger.com3