Wordless Wednesday: A Golden Moment

An Arboretum Adventure: Part 1

My adventure started early in the morning on Sunday. I woke up at 6:00 AM. Ate breakfast, got ready, and made my drive towards town. I charged my camera battery the day before so that it would be ready. I also had in my head what I would wear, and etc. When I reached a certain point while driving, I drove up the hill to Moscow. It was a beautiful drive. There were hardly any other drivers on the road, so it really was pleasant. The sun was also shining bright. After a forty-five-minute drive, I made my way into Moscow. My wonderful friend, Jolene, picked me up at the A&W, so that I could ride with her. Didn't know my way around, so it was so kind of her to do that for me. Thank you, Jolene!

She took me to the Moscow Arboretum & Botanical Garden. Right away, I could tell it was a path that would lead to a beautiful area. Taking out my camera, I began to shoot photos. My friend was so patient as I paused every so often to take a shot. I tend to do that a lot. We walked down the path that led into the arboretum. Talking about life, we enjoyed the many flowers and trees that were close to the path. There were also cool benches with quotes on them. One of them had a Bible verse. I can't remember all the different plants we encountered along the way, but there were many amazing specimens. We took it all in.

We weren't the only ones in the arboretum. There were couples, and people alone enjoying the walk. We stopped next to a bench that was near some water. We each had a few photos taken of us sitting on them. So happy! My favorite thing about the arboretum are the very unique plants found there. Some that I had never heard of before or even seen. I'm a plant lover. Okay, I'm kind of obsessed. I may not be the best at taking care of them inside, but I have an inner fondness for them, including trees. They're magical, ethereal, and full of wisdom. They never cease to bring me happiness, and I have an appreciation for them. 

There were sections of the arboretum that were different parts of the world. I found this fascinating. I thought all of them were neat in their own way, but the Asia one was pretty cool. With benches in each section, some artistic formations, and places to take pictures, there was much to enjoy. The whole arboretum itself wasn't super large, but it was just right, nestled next to a golf course. As we continued our walk, we found numerous things to talk about. It was the perfect place to reflect on life. Something so peaceful about nature. It heals the soul and opens communication. I love every bit of it.

The flowers were gorgeous. So many that I didn't recognize. Some were oddly shaped. Some were unique. All of them a beauty to behold. The arboretum itself appeared to be well taken care of. Green grass, trees, and water were all managed with care. Of course, there's the occasional dry spots, but that's expected with Idaho's summers. I don't know myself if I had any favorites while on our walk. Some did stand out, though. Jolene and I kept walking on the path till we got to a section that kind of veered off. It took us to some Hostas. I'm pretty sure my Mom has a few of these or did have some. Cool plants!

The Hostas were huge. It felt like I was in a jungle. I don't know if Hostas exist in jungles, but maybe they should! Being surrounded by them was a curious feeling. They appear dense and large. After we stepped past these awesome plants, we walked on by more flowers and trees. In the end here, I didn't post every photo I took of the arboretum, but I tried to include at least some of them. There was much to see and explore. One could definitely come back and traverse the area. I could also see how people would like to get their pictures taken there for certain events. It's absolutely fun and memorable.

When we neared the end of the loop around that we took, we walked past a red barn. It led us to the parking lot. We both got into the car and took off down the road from the arboretum. Our next stop was at a garden down the road a couple of miles. I had never heard of it but knew that it had lovely flowers. You could cut flowers and fill up your bucket with them. This meant that you could get your own bouquet that someone else grew near their own home. This part will be told in a part 2 of this adventure. The post will be next week, so be sure to come back for that last bit of my journey. If you liked my post, follow me here on Blogger or like my Facebook page here. Thanks! And thanks, my friend!

Many Blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Business Spotlight: Local Wendy's

I sometimes have some free time in the afternoon, so I did a little exploring. I know my definition of exploring is most likely simple and easy for other people. But my inside social anxiety makes everything an adventure, so that's kind of how it feels to me. My senses are heightened when I step outside of my comfort zone. And on this particular day, I went to our local Wendy's. It's one of my favorite fast-food places, but I never eat inside. It makes me too nervous, so I avoid it. However, I changed that on this afternoon. I stepped into Wendy's, nerves and all. Stubbornly, I was going to enjoy this experience.

With determination, I tried to ignore my feelings. I already kind of knew what I wanted. I had walked through it in my mind, because I didn't want to appear awkward. I felt like everyone was watching me order, so I had to know what I wanted beforehand. Knowing that, I pushed the door open and walked in. I waited behind another customer, and when it was my time, I ordered. I like to think that I went through it seamlessly. I picked out a baked potato (they still make them!), a fry, and frosty. I didn't get a small drink because I thought a frosty would be good enough. It was! So I paid for it all and gave them my name. 

My true reason for coming to Wendy's was nostalgic. Long ago, I used to go inside and eat with my Grandma and cousin/friend. We would sit at the same spot almost every time. It was next to the window looking out. I remembered the feeling of happiness when I got to spend time with them, and of course, in eating some delicious food. My Grandma would take us both out to eat and go shopping. We spent many nights with her. My cousin and I played together with our Pound Puppies houses (they were kind of like Polly Pocket, but I don't know how to describe them). The places to shop were Walmart, and the mall that's kind of like a hall. There's no levels. I call it "the hall" because of it. Anyways, good times.

If I remember right, Wendy's used to have a kids meal. I don't know if they still have that or not. As I grew older, I would get a baked potato, fry, and frosty. What I got that day was almost identical except the potato came with bacon. I was picky with meat as a kid, so I didn't always get a hamburger. I did like chicken nuggets, however (sometimes). All good food; all wonderful times. I wish so much that my Grandma was still alive, and that my cousin lived closer (we grew up together). While I can't eat Wendy's with them again like this, I'll hold these precious memories close, because they mean so much to me.

In the past years, it's also been my Dad's favorite place. We still, if we head into town for something together, we get a bite to eat there (just in the drive-thru). I suppose what one must do in this moment, is to remember to hold time spent with others a priority. Just hold them near, and once they're gone, make those memories last. I'm so glad I stopped here. But who knows? I may do it again soon. Thanks, Grandma! Miss you lots.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Business Spotlight: Delights

My day started like any other day, I got up and went to work. My plan, however, was different. I wanted to see if the Delights truck was across the parking lot from Ross. I drove over from work to Lewiston. My first stop was at TJ Maxx. I bought a few things (a cat pad scratcher and cat treat ball) for Kenji (my cat). I then drove along the parking lot and parked near the Delights cart. I was excited to try it. I had seen it on Facebook.

I met Paige, the owner. She's friendly, fun, and sweet. She asked me for my name, and I gave it to her. I really liked her blue cart that sat on the lot during a sunny day. It was welcoming. I checked out the cookies she had to the right, and also, the cute cups to my left. I looked through her menu of drinks and decided on a vanilla cold brew. She made it in front of me while I watched. I had been trying to find a day to find the Delights cart and was able to make it during that afternoon. I was looking forward to the drinks.

After she was done with the cold brew, I tasted it for the first time. It was really good. With my coffee in hand, I couldn't leave without a cookie or one of her cups (the pink one). So I definitely got both. The cookie was yummy, and I've already used my pink cup. If you haven't noticed, I have a thing for cups. Before I left, Paige asked me for my blog address. I gave it to her, and mentioned that I would blog about Delights. I had already taken pictures, so I said goodbye. I took my cup, drink, and cookie within my arms.

I recommend trying her espressos. I haven't tried any of the energy drinks, but I'm sure they're really good, too. She has a drinks menu that you can look through to see if there's something you'd like. I plan on going back to try some other drinks. To know more, you can find her on Facebook where she posts where, what day, and what time she'll be at. You can be friends with her on Facebook here. If you're in the area, give Delights a try. Be sure to come back to experience the other drinks, as well. Thank you, Paige!

When I got home, I finished my drink. Didn't realize there was a heart on it. 💓 I then replaced my other scratcher pads (the old ones) out for the new ones I had gotten. I also gave Kenji the new cat ball that holds treats. He didn't seem to be too excited about it. He kind of left it on the floor. I give him treats whenever, so he probably thought, "Why should I work for it?" He's one smart kitty. My day was pleasant, and I'm so glad I tried Delights.

Did you like this post? Don't forget to follow me here on Blogger, and on Facebook here.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Photo Quests: Green All Around Me - Part 2

 Photo Quests: Green All Around Me - Part 2

Intro: There's more green around me. The plants are lovely, healthy,
and good right now. I, of course, take it all in. I'm just so thankful for these emerald gems.

Quest Ending: I'm reminded again that some of this lustrous green will end. 
Nice to capture these plants while I can. Enjoy these kinds of moments, 
because they can disappear in nature. But they'll sure return again next year.

Wordless Wednesday: Not Just A Weed

Business Spotlight: Bob's Pet And Pond

After work, I decided to visit a few places for photos. First, I went to Wendy's (which will be another post). Then, I knew that I had to stop at Bob's Pet And Pond. I go every so often to pick up some toys and treats for my cat, Kenji. Before I went in, I took a photo of the building outside. I remember when it was in the extra space to the side (which is next to it). I used to go more often. I had an aquarium for a while, so I got my fish from them. I had a sucker fish, red eye tetras, and neon tetras. My favorite were the red eye tetras. I had one that was large and had a huge jaw. I obviously named him Jaws. 

When I stepped in, I made my way to the cat section. They have a great selection of toys, treats, and other various items. I really like what they have available. I also go to Petco from time to time. I enjoy both places, but Bob's Pet And Pond is the only place that has Churu Rolls. I haven't been able to find them on Amazon, so I go here to get them. Kenji is obsessed with these treats. They're chewable rolls with cream inside. Hey, they look yummy. Not that I would try one! My cat just gobbles them up. One of his favorites.

After buying the stuff for my cat, I headed over to the fish. A beautiful shark appeared around the corner. I don't remember what kind, but I thought it looked pretty cool. I then made my way around the fish tanks taking in the nostalgia. Like I mentioned before, I used to have an aquarium. Not a big one, but it was just the right size for my room at the time. I miss having an aquarium. There was something peaceful about it. Maybe someday I'll get an aquarium again, but right now it wouldn't work. I don't have a place for one. 

Walking past the aquariums, I felt in awe. I know. Sounds silly, right? But to experience something that would ordinarily not be viewable for people, is there to see and take in. I remember always wanting to work at Bob's Pet And Pond, but it never happened. I was pretty young then, and I had no experience to show that I worked with animals. Sometimes things don't happen the way we wished, but maybe it just wasn't meant to be. I miss those old days. Sorry. I've been really nostalgic lately. I can't help but think about the past. I often visit my past when something stirs my memory. So, yeah, I then headed home.

I got home and joined my kitty. Taking out his gifts, I showed them to him. He always gets so excited and likes to purr when he has gifts. I got him two smaller cat toys that looked like he might show interest in. I also got him his Churu rolls, of course. And a toy that I just couldn't resist. It's a wand that has a ufo with a cat at the top. A cow is connected to the lengthy material. It glows within! Such a funny and cute idea for a cat toy. I got a kick out of it, especially since I watch Mystery of Skinwalker Ranch. We played together for a little bit, and I gave him a Churu roll. He thoroughly enjoyed himself. He was pleased!

After that, I did chores and helped out at home. Later, blogging. It was nice to get out and do something kind of spontaneous. I deal with a lot of social anxiety, so making myself take pictures of a business is hard for me. Especially, when I went to Wendy's. It felt so good to push myself a little, though. I had fun, and I plan on doing more things like this in the days to come. If you liked today's post, be sure to follow my blog on Blogger (it's in the right sidebar) and on Facebook here. Thank you! Hoped you liked today's spotlight post.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

A Day In My Life: Part 1

I started my day with the sound of my phone alarm going off. My cat appeared ready for me to wake up. He usually does. I stumbled out of bed and fed him breakfast. (I need to make my bed each day!) Gave him a few treats, as well (Temptations are his favorite). Every morning, I take my meds, vitamins, and supplements. I also post to social media in the mornings. I had breakfast. Then, I helped my brother. Getting settled; I made coffee to drink in my new cup (that I ordered from Amazon). I thought it was pretty neat. With my coffee in my hand, I played an online game on my phone. I usually play it each day, or at least, try to. I love routine. I love a schedule. It may seem boring, but it works for me.

Once I'm done playing my game, I spend some time with God. I read some devotionals, write down my thoughts, and pray. Then, playtime with Kenji - my cat. I run around with him, play with toys, brush him, and feed him a Churu lickable treat (he's obsessed with these!). He always looks forward to all of this. I enjoy getting to spend my mornings with him. He's the sweetest kitty. If I get him a new toy, he starts purring. I love my big boy!

After those things were done, I spent ten minutes (or fifteen) in meditation. I often close my eyes and sit down on a cushion in my office. I play some gentle music and try to keep my mind blank. I do pray while I meditate. It's a nice refresher for the day, and it puts me in the right mindset. I try to not do anything too different when I meditate. I do replay in my head positive words to prepare myself. For instance, I'll think I'm strong. I'm capable. I'll do well at work. I don't think there's anything wrong with thinking these thoughts. You should say positive words to yourself. To, you know, have a great day.

I spotted a sweet note from my Dad on the kitchen counter. I got ready for work - cleaned up. Stopped by Starbucks and got a venti iced white chocolate mocha (my most favorite!). Thanks, Dad! Went to work at the bookstore. I enjoy my job so much. Being around books is fun. I also like being able to help people find a book they're looking for. I'll look around myself and think about the gifts and books while I'm working. It's hard not to shop. Books can be ordered, as well. So, if you're looking for something special, I can help you with that. The day went well at work. I drove home, and immediately ate lunch.

I stepped outside and snapped a fast picture of the cone flowers that had just recently bloomed. I helped with my brother in the afternoon and evening. When it was time to head out to my place, I took a quick picture of the sky. It was a smokey day, but was extremely good, overall. In the evenings, I usually read a book or watch something like Mystery of Skinwalker Ranch on Discovery+. I also spend some time blogging and writing. It was a full day, and I like having a schedule. Otherwise, I can get bored. Plus, it keeps me disciplined.

I read somewhere, people that keep a routine are happier. I believe it, because it helps me through my day. I often stay focused, disciplined, and in control. Not having any sense of direction for my day makes me feel lost. That's why I have a schedule for each day. I feel less together if I don't have direction. I just have to be doing something. Now, this might not apply to everyone. But it makes sense to me. I just know I'm more content. Hope you enjoyed this day in my life. I'm doing more of them in the near future. Goodbye!

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Devotional: Beeee Happy

We all go through hardship. Some more than others, but experiencing sadness is something we all must face. Depression itself is a dark place to be. It's not only sadness, however. It's darker than that. I, myself, went through a time where I felt like I was in a room without much light. Today, life can still be hard, but I've chosen to let that light in as much as I possibly can. We may even be in a place that is desperate. In that case, a positive word may not help. Depression can be clinical. I don't believe we can't just get over it.

In the darkness I was in, not a lot helped. Now, I've found myself in a good place. I still struggle, as we all do, in our own ways. And I deal with sadness, and mostly, anxiety. I have anxiety about everything. It's tiring. But I digress, in that darkness I grasped for any hope I could. It appeared so far away. Like, something I struggled to touch. It was not within reach. I looked for guidance, reassurance, and lastly, hope. I couldn't see any.

At the end of a phone call, I would ask my parents for advice. My Dad had two words he would tell me that stood out to me. He would say, "be happy." It was more like, "beeee happy." He would say them with a sunny tone. It also bolstered my heart, because it was something my Grandma would often say. In fact, he got it from her. For me, I knew that things would, or could, still be hard. But, hearing him say those particular words brought both encouragement and joy. I needed that connection.

I knew he wanted me to be happy. That was enough hope for me. I had to fight. I had to fight for what I could, and I'm still fighting. I don't know what the future holds for any of us. But I know that God wishes for us to be happy. That, my parents wish for the same thing. I even got a keychain for my collection that says "bee happy" on it. You know, like a bee. It was a reminder of those words. I'm not saying that two words can change your life completely, but they sure can help. This Father's Day, I'd like to thank my Dad for always supporting me and for giving me advice. I hold those two words close to my heart.

Be Happy.

"Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." - Romans 15:13

Do you need prayer? Leave a comment, and I'll pray for you.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Photo Quests: Green All Around Me - Part 1

 Photo Quests: Green All Around Me - Part 1

Intro: Nothing but green all around me. I know it won't last, but
at least I get to see the foliage be this vibrant.

Quest Ending: Taking pictures of foliage that's green may seem bland, but instead of flowers, I showcased the green we find in nature. This is part 1 of more green to come.

Wordless Wednesday: Just One Wish

 

Website Spotlight: CMADDICT

My brother has a Christian music website called CMADDICT. It's a place for all kinds of Christian music. Pop, rock, contemporary, etc. On the site, you can find news, interviews, music videos, articles, free music, and more. I especially recommend checking out the site's playlists on Spotify. They're really popular, and they've got great music. My brother has done a fantastic job of putting the playlists together. I love listening to them.

CMADDICT has been around for a while. I remember when it first started. I was a contributor in the beginning stages. I then became assistant editor. I wrote reviews and interviews for it. With my brother, I plan on being a contributor again. I'll be writing album reviews for the site. They won't be posted here, but I'll provide a link to the reviews on the right sidebar of my blog. If you like my Facebook page, you can find a future link posted there, as well. I plan on signing up for Spotify to listen to the newest Christian music, so that I can review them. I'm really looking forward to it. Going to be awesome.

My brother has a disability, but that doesn't stop him. He manages the site himself, and he does everything. He inspires me with the hard work he puts into his site. He's talked with numerous Chrisitan artists. He even made a connection for me to interview Rebecca St. James. I remember being so nervous about it. It was one of my first interviews done over the phone with someone. I'm so thankful that I got the chance to talk with different people. It was a fun and exciting time. I'm eager to get back to writing reviews again.

Kevin is my older brother. He goes through so much each day, but he doesn't complain. He works on his site and helps new artists with their music. I've added a little of his bio below here. You can find the rest of it on cmaddict.com. "I was nineteen when I broke my neck in Canada. At the time I was diagnosed with a C2 complete spinal cord injury which meant I had nothing. I couldn't move, breathe or anything. All I could do is blink. The doctor there was sure to inform my parents that I would never again regain anything."

I hope you were inspired today by my brother. He's brave, humble, and strong. His work on CMADDICT is so cool, and that he is also able to help other artists in the music field. If you like Christian music, go visit his site. Be sure to check out his Spotify playlists, too. There's some amazing music there. Thank you, everyone! Enjoy the music! Find the playlists here.

Website: cmaddict.com
Facebook Page: CMADDICT Official
Twitter: @CMADDICT
Instagram: cmaddict
Spotify: CMADDICT.com

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Museum Spotlight: Nez Perce National Historical Park

Museum: Nez Perce National Historical Park

Location: Lapwai, Idaho

I heard that the Nez Perce National Historical Park in Lapwai, Idaho had a new exhibit. I had plans to visit it as soon as I could. After work, I left to drive over to the visitor center. My camera in tow, I parked my car in the parking lot and got out. Admiring the green hills surrounding the center, I followed the path to the doors. Took a few pictures of the outside building itself, and then stepped in. I was welcomed by two people at the front counter. They were friendly and helpful. I greeted them back and started taking pictures.

On the left wall, a beautiful mural. A long canoe sat alongside it. I snapped a couple of different angles. This wasn't part of the new exhibit. I had seen it before, but it's always so cool. As I finished taking pictures of it, I focused my attention on the horse within a glass case. I especially liked this. It wasn't new either, but I didn't remember it much from the last I went there. The Nez Perce pride themselves on the Appaloosa, and I can only imagine this wear on a real horse. If you've ever seen an Appaloosa, they're beautiful horses.

I opened the door leading to the new exhibit. I was excited to see it. Admittedly, I tried to open the wrong door when it was clearly labeled that the right door was the one to open. Shaking off the embarrassment, I walked into the dark room. It was completely different from what I remember of the old exhibit. The old exhibit was more simpler and had some information about the artifacts. This one was immersive and informational. It was much more interactive in that it had things you could do. There was also plenty of information. I really liked it; however, I was distracted by taking my many photos.

I do this when I take photos. I forget to enjoy and take in something when I'm in the zone. I regret not spending more time in reading the info and joining in on the interactive stations they had. The nice thing is, I can easily visit it again, and pay more attention. There were a few people at the museum that seemed like they were outside of the area. The kids were enjoying the exhibit, and the parents took photos. I was concerned myself with taking photos, but I still really enjoyed it. Would go again to take it in better.

It's not a large exhibit, but it's modern and new. I liked how they combined the new with the old. There's the glass cases with items to view, and screens to look at. Plenty of info for the curious. After I wandered around, I stepped out of the exhibit and into the brighter room. This time I chose the right door. I wasn't going to repeat that same mistake. In that room, they have a nice gift shop for people to look through. I came really close to buying a shirt and cup. Instead, I purchased a sticker and what looks like a coin. It's not. It's a neat token. Next time I'll get that shirt and cup. I don't need more cups, but... 

I recommend visiting the museum to see the new exhibit. Bring your family and enjoy the past that has a modern way of viewing it. For more info about the museum, you can google hours and info. Where should I go next? Leave a comment with your ideas. Please, don't forget to follow my blog and like my page on Facebook! Thank you so much.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson