An Afternoon In Love

Yesterday afternoon, I went on another hiking excursion. This time, I fell in love.

Oren and I spent the afternoon walking the Greenbelt Corridor trail of Ray Roberts State Park, in the most perfect weather anybody could have imagined.

Words can hardly describe how I felt, walking the miles on this gorgeous forested path, quietly away from all distraction, with only the occasional bicyclist or dog walker for company.

Even in the winter months, the heart of the "dead" season here in North Texas, this place was beautifully green. Pictures hardly do it justice. The bare trees left room for sunlight to reach the forest floor and provide nourishment for bright green grasses to flourish and provide a beautiful emerald carpet throughout the acres of country.

 Looking up, every now and then, we caught a glimpse of bright white Aspen trees, growing tall and strong, swaying gracefully in the breeze.

We sat on perfect tree stumps and imagined forested tea parties that could take place. We climbed on dead logs and walked along the river. We ran for a stretch and enjoyed the sheer beauty we passed by. We took a rest on a little grassy area and saw hawks flying silently and calmly overhead.

I hugged the largest trees I could find and adored feeling their strength.

I imagined bringing my journal and Bible out there for a quiet afternoon of meditation, and relished the thought of taking a picnic out to one of the perfect little clearings just off the path.

I imagined placing a grand piano in one of those clearings, and playing beautiful music in the sheer center of the gorgeous forest.

As I said, over and over, I could spend my life out there. I could go there daily and never get bored. I feel that my soul was renewed, one step at a time, one tree after another.

I have no doubt that I need the natural world, especially after being so fulfilled by an afternoon spent in rapturous beauty.

As Richard Louv puts it so well,  "a reconnection to the natural world is fundamental to human health, well-being, spirit, and survival.” 

I can't wait to go back! 

I thank you God for this most amazing day, 

for the leaping greenly spirits of trees, 

and for the blue dream of sky 

and for everything which is natural, 

which is infinite, which is yes.

- e.e. cummings

New Year's Update

Beware: this post is decidedly late. But I thought I would love to update everyone on my gorgeous New Year's events! So enjoy :)

 Oren bought Trans Siberian Orchestra tickets for my big Christmas gift this year. The concert was fantastic! Although, I am pretty sure Oren bought himself his own best Christmas present-- he loved the concert a million times more than even I did!

Isn't this a fabulous family photo? :)

One night of the New Year, my parents took the family down to Fair Park in Dallas to see the Chinese Lantern Festival! I loved seeing everything all lit up. It was gorgeous. Quite cold, but very appropriate for seeing such beautiful outdoor lights. Sometimes, around the holidays, I think it just might be alright for the weather to be frigid. :)

Oren and I thought these pandas were so adorable! 

 Later, my best friend Sawyer and I went out hiking on a nature preserve in Sherman.

Such a delightful idea turned into a real beast of an adventure when we got seriously lost on the unmarked trails and oil service gravel roads of this backcountry. The sheriff may or may not have been called for help... and may or may not have driven out in the reserve to rescue us after dark. Moral of the story-- parks should mark their trails, gosh dangit!

Anyway, we fun spending time together, and I witnessed a moment of submission as we recognized the power of prayer in the middle of our panic.

Finally, Oren and I took a trip to see the Dallas Symphony Orchestra perform Dvorak's Symphony for the New World (and Brahms' Piano Concerto No. 2 in Bb).

I absolutely LOVE going to see the symphony, and I try to go pretty often due to our close proximity and the fact that we get $15 student tickets! This is a little known Dallas fact that I try to reveal to anyone who will listen. Check it out here.

My favorite moment of this performance of the New World  Symphony came in the Largo movement, which is usually everybody's favorite. It's not usually mine, because to my mind once you've heard the 'Going Home' theme once, you've heard it a million times. I usually prefer the first or last movements over the Largo.

However, this time, the DSO under Jaap van Zweden surprised me. They performed the last statement of the lyrical theme with deliciously placed rests that extended the cadence-- an interpretation I have never heard before. It was the kind of silence that was surprising, shocking, and yet simply delightful. The entire audience held their breath, waiting for the fall of the conductor's baton marking the highly anticipated final notes. The emotion was tangible in the concert hall.

I can't remember the last time I was surprised by an orchestra, and certainly not in such a profound way. At the end of the night, that was the phrase that I wrote on a slip of magenta paper and tucked into my gratitude jar. (More on that another time).

 I hope that all of you-- anyone stopping by-- is celebrating the start of this new year with moments as joyful and meaningful as mine have been. Happy New Year!

“Write it on your heart that every day is the best day in the year.”  — Ralph Waldo Emerson

10 Books Mandi's Reading in 2014

In the midst of working on many New Year's resolutions, plans, and goals, I decided to set out a to-read list for myself for the new year!

Anticipating my upcoming semester abroad, I set myself a reasonable goal of reading ten books this year. Among these are books new and old, classic and contemporary, inspiring and fun.

If you're interested, check these out with me!

 

The Nature Principle-- Richard Louv

I read the beginning chapters of this book in my Philosophy of Self class last spring. I was completely intrigued by the idea that being out in nature could be something my heart longs for. I can't wait to learn more!

Anne of Green Gables-- L. M. Montgomery

A classic story that I have sadly never read. I think it's about time I got into it! (Perhaps I'll read Little Women next year...)

I Am Malala—Malala Yousafzai

The autobiography of the year. Promises to be a great read, and probably very inspiring!

Mere Christianity—C. S. Lewis

I have recently been very interested in getting into some C. S. Lewis theology, and after much research this is where I have decided to start. As the foremost writer on Christian doctrine (and a man who wrote one amazing fantasy series), I think Lewis will provide a great read.

Love Does—Bob Goff

This appears to be a very heart-warming and inspiring story of one man who led one very extraordinary life. I can’t wait to read about all of his stunning adventures, and learn all about his positive outlook!

The Cuckoo’s Calling—JKR

I couldn’t call myself a loyal fan if I didn’t at least give this a try! I didn’t care for ‘A Casual Vacancy’ at all, but I am excited to see what this new work is like.

Fearless Girls, Wise Women, and Beloved Sisters: Heroines in Folktales from Around the World—Kathleen Ragan

I seriously adore folk and fairy tales, especially those that allow me to explore other cultures and perspectives. I ran across this book last summer in a Chicago bookstore and am still thinking about reading it to this day! I think that’s a good sign. I can’t wait to get into this collection of tales all about women.

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, Half-Blood Prince, and Deathly Hallows—JKR

I began re-reading the series this past summer and didn’t finish. Hopefully I get these re-read soon! 

What books are you excited to read in 2014? Let me know below!

Advent Wreath Mindfulness

This year I began a new Christmas tradition that I hoped would help me slow down and live into each moment of this holiday season. This was JUST the thing! Raised a Methodist, I have seen season after season of Advent wreath lightings in church services around Christmas time. I never knew that the tradition could be used as a personal ritual in preparation for Christ's birth! 

Most of my friends had never heard of an Advent wreath before I undertook this four-week spiritual journey. If you are like them, you're in luck! I will gladly explain it to you. 

An advent wreath is a circle of candles in a wreath of evergreen, coming from German tradition. Each candle has a specific symbolism, and typical Methodist wreaths include three purple candles, one pink candle, and one central white "Christ" candle. As celebrated in the churches I have visited, one candle is lit for each of the four weeks leading up to Christmas, to symbolize our preparation for Christ's coming. The Christ candle is lit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. If you'd like to learn more about Advent as celebrated in the Methodist church, click here! 

I was first inspired by the adult leader of the meditation bible study I attend at the Denton Wesley Foundation to begin a mindfulness practice for the upcoming Christmas season. I wanted to spend the season being PRESENT, living each moment to the fullest and not waking up at the end feeling as though I missed the point of everything. We discussed various ritual practices that can help us live the holidays spiritually, and doing a daily advent wreath called to me. 

I rushed to the Hobby Lobby (I am their most loyal customer) and fought the busy crowds in the floral aisles to find a brass Advent wreath base (no idea they sold these!!), greenery, little pinecone accents, and of course candles (which they also sold in an Advent set. Who knew??). After much bending and fluffing, I came up with a pretty acceptable-looking wreath.                                                                                                           Side note: I used to think that wreath and garland making would be a nice hobby for me to add to my crafter's portfolio... now I am just not so sure. First, because I have realized that each little element that goes on a wreath costs 3-4 dollars apiece! And second, I sadly don't think I have an eye for plant decorating, fake or otherwise. Sigh. Oh well! My advent wreath is pretty enough and functional enough to serve its purpose beautifully. 

Anyway, after my little wreath was made, I composed a four week study plan in my journal with a theme for each week that I chose. My four candles represented Hope, Purity, Joy, and Expectation! I used plenty of the resources here to find applicable scriptures to read, prayers to pray, and little meditations to study.

I also divided my usual Christmas traditions across the four weeks, according to theme. For the Hope week I planned to write and send my usual Christmas cards and put up Christmas lights inside and out-- two activities that really send and speak hope in my eyes. For Purity, I decided to clean out closets and donate items, as well as evaluating the highlights of my life for the past year and my old New Year's resolutions-- out with the old! For Joy, I planned to sing carols with loved ones, watch Christmas movies, and bake goodies. For Expectation, I re-imagined the nativity scene and planned to create an art journal page celebrating the return of the sun (after Winter Solstice). This way, I did all of my usual traditional activities mindfully and spiritually.

And each night, I sat in the dark with my journal, Bible, and my little Advent wreath, to light a candle or two and meditate on the coming of the light.

Nearing the end of this holiday season, many friends have commented on "how fast it's gone by" for them, but I happily don't feel that way this year! The nightly study and mindful actions kept me grounded and slowed down the days for me. I consider it a rousing success! I can't wait to see what new ways I will find to celebrate Christmas next year.

I hope that all of you have had a beautiful Christmas season, and that you enter the new year with mindfulness and joy.




A few of my favorite pages exploring being PRESENT and other mindfulness practices are below! Enjoy!
A Day of Mindfulness 
A Basic Guide to Self-Care
One Winter Solstice Ritual

Finally Christmas!

After a long and grueling wait, Christmas finally came to the Sadler family! We had a fantastic time preparing for Christmas (we begin decorating the day after Thanksgiving), and on Christmas Eve we began a week of celebrations! From singing many church services to attending numerous family parties and dinners, I feel pretty tired here near the end. But, we all had such a fantastic time.

Me with the Pajela family at our first Christmas party on Christmas Eve

I absolutely love celebrating the holidays with Oren and his extended family. Together we usually attend quite the handful of casual to formal events, and we love getting to see the cousins who come to visit from far away. The huge party we attended above involved a White Elephant gift exchange with nearly 80 people!

A BEAUTIFUL traditional Irish breakfast prepared "Christmas" morn by my Mama

The Sadler house celebrated Christmas on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and then again on December 28th when Abi and Lance finally arrived from celebrating in New Mexico. Needless to say, Granny and Daddy REALLY wanted to open those presents long before we were all here! We considered the 28th to be "our Christmas" and Mama prepared quite delicious meals.

A beautiful and delicious Beef Tenderloin prepared for "Christmas" dinner

Abi and I in our matching pajamas after we finished opening all those presents!

This is truly the most wonderful time of the year. Through all the busy times and scheduling nightmares, we see the beauty of Christmas that lies in simply spending time together as a family. I may be tired, but every day I remind myself that spending time with those we love is worth more to me than getting plenty of rest and lounging around the house. We are making memories that we will remember our entire lives! My rest can wait for a few more days. :) 

From our family to yours, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! 

Santa Takes Over the Kitchen!

Christmas festivities continue with a night of best friend fun!

Sawyer and I got together tonight to cook dinner together for our families. We made a delicious Arugula and Zucchini lasagna paired with a grapefruit and candied pecan salad dressed with raspberry vinaigrette, garlic bread on the side.

This delicious recipe comes from Aida Mollenkamp's cookbook, which can be found here! My sister gave me this fantastic resource when I acquired my first apartment and first endeavored to cook for myself. It has since provided me with many a delicious dinner!


Moments with family and good friends are the little spots of heaven that we encounter every day. I am so very thankful for this one. I hope that you all have a very Merry Christmas!

First Ever Christmas Program!

Yesterday, I completed my first major task as a music teacher. After months of prepping, lesson planning, recording, rehearsing, and dress rehearsing, I led the Prosper United Methodist Church's children's choirs in their first Christmas Program in years (and my first ever!!).

How to plan a Christmas Program if you're like me and have no idea what you're doing:

• I picked out music for this event in July. I chose eight pieces. I would much later pare these choices down to a MUCH more reasonable five. 
• I researched scriptures and decided on a doable narration to go between pieces. 
• I attended many staff meetings and in August chose a date for the event. I planned all other performances in equally doable intervals leading up to the big day!
• School starts, and everything is rescheduled. Suddenly, instead of having six healthy weeks of rehearsal to prep for this concert, I now only have four. My kids currently take four weeks to learn ONE piece of music. Panic panic panic. 
• We begin rehearsing in November (too late). 
• I began making a piano and voice recording for the kids to take home and listen to. What I thought would be a weekend project turned into a three-week affair. Between recording perfect piano and voice parts and mixing them together, burning thirty CDs, and making adorable CD envelopes and inserts... it took FOREVER! I gave my kids their CDs two weeks out from the performance. Panic panic panic.
• Enter icepocalypse 2013! Our dress rehearsal was cancelled. PANIC. Our performance was canceled, and rescheduled two weeks later!
• We had our dress rehearsal, after not meeting for two weeks and with many kids out due to scheduling conflicts. PANIC PANIC PANIC.

Yet, after all of that... We showed up on Sunday morning and the kids sang a beautiful concert. They were prepared. They all said their lines on time and loudly enough to be heard. The seemingly-easy but actually incredibly complicated two-part carol I chose as a combined choirs piece turned out fabulously. My conducting dress purchased for the occasion fit perfectly and looked gorgeous.

Oren came to watch me conduct!

After all of that fear, I left the church joyfully. I am so proud of my kids.

"An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.  But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.  Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord."
Luke 2:9