Only Joy

We could never learn to be brave and patient, if there were only joy in the world.

Helen Keller

Perhaps

If we discover a desire within us that nothing in this world can satisfy, also we should begin to wonder if perhaps we were created for another world.

C. S. Lewis Mere Christianity

Greatest of All Mistakes

It is the greatest of all mistakes to do nothing because you can only do a little.

- Sydney Smith, writer and clergyman (1771-1845)

Road Trip

We are getting ready for another Road Trip. I don't think we will have Internet access where we are going (sharp, audible intake of breath inserted here). It will be a trying time for me, but I will do my best to survive. ;) In the meantime, things will be pretty quiet here on All Astonishment. But don't worry, Gentle Readers, I'll will be back and should have some incredible new photos to share.

Happy Fourth

Happy Fourth of July Everyone!

I like to see a man proud of the place in which he lives. I like to see a man live so that his place will be proud of him. ~Abraham Lincoln

This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave. ~Elmer Davis

Yet America is a poem in our eyes; its ample geography dazzles the imagination, and it will not wait long for metres. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson, "The Poet," Essays, Second Series, 1844

This, then, is the state of the union: free and restless, growing and full of hope. So it was in the beginning. So it shall always be, while God is willing, and we are strong enough to keep the faith. ~Lyndon B. Johnson

Star-spangled happiness
and banner waves of pride.
~Cherishe Archer

Links

Here are a few websites that I've discovered recently that I think are worth sharing:

Lookybook preview children's picture books - you have to see this!

List of specific Gluten-Free foods (brands)

Mint free budget and financial tracking

Facts on Fiction - "preview" that book your child wants to read

Tiny URL - create short, anonymous links for your webpage

Photographing Fireworks - get ready for the 4th

10 Things to Like about $4/gallon Gas

Whew!

Miss Munchkin and I had our first Advanced class last night. I have to admit that I was feeling a bit nervous, not knowing what to expect and meeting new people, etc. But it went very well! The teacher introduced us and the students were very friendly - even the big, black belt guys. After warming up, we didn't waste anytime getting into the new material: we learned how to do a double-leg takedown and a shoulder-throw, then we did some work with bear hugs and headbuts. It was really fun! I think Miss Munchkin got a thrill from throwing her mom over her shoulder. :P

Here's a visual for you: