I am writing this first post from the charming city of Zurich, not because it's glamorous but because of the simple fact I am without my 16 month old son Joseph (and setting this page up required a bit more time and energy than I usually have when I am with him). My husband Rod has a microsurgery course here, and we took the opportunity to spend some time alone together for the first time since Joe's birth. So far it has been lovely- nice snuggling in peace and quiet under a down comforter, great food and wine, beautiful sights around every corner. Of course, we both miss Joe terribly, but it was past time for some marriage respite for us.
Back to the pertinent subject... blogging... I hope this space will be a forum for sharing my journey through this season of my life. A place for documenting deeper ponderings, silly and pleasurable everyday events, yummy recipes, fun pictures, sharing great deals, and any other favorite things!
So, the title of my blog is multi- dimensional for me. When my Grandpa Mattson was introduced to his future son- in- law he told my mom that my dad was nice, he just needed to be sure to stop and smell the roses in his life. I am my father's daughter (as my dad likes to say), and I have a tendency to miss the roses in my naturally task- focused approach to life. So, for me, this is a good reminder, to take pause and notice the small and large gifts God gives me daily and enjoy them. Another reason for this title is the reference to my name, Sharon. Biblically, there are a few references to (the rose of) "Sharon" (Song of Solomon 2:1)... a loose tie, but for me meaningful, since my dad spoke to me often of the importance of the meaning of my name from birth. I believe that I am part of the Bride of Christ, the "rose of Sharon" for my Bridegroom, Jesus Christ. The third dimension is from the quote on the side of my page from Lilias Trotter. I long to be that wild rosecalyx- to live my life with joyous abandonment, open to richly experiencing the new life God has given me, for His glory.
A few facts about me beyond what I've shared above...
- I am thirty- something, and it does really matter- I'm a grown- up, and it's somehow less glamorous than I thought it would be. (ex. severe SI joint pain and tightness right after this birthday to help me realize I am getting older!)
- I am married to an amazing man, Rod. He is a man of few words (yep, that strong quiet mysterious type!), kind, generous, deeply caring, faithful and loyal to a fault, an adventurer at heart, a wonderful father to our son Joe, very self- disciplined, and a neurosurgeon (you'll be hearing more about that later, I am sure).
- I have a darling son, Joseph Andrew. He is 16 months old, and full of personality and action! I don't think he ever stops moving and attempting to speak or otherwise make noise. The only time he does stop is when he collapses gratefully into bed! He has beautiful red/ auburn hair with curls (I am slightly jealous, I have to admit), and will share his smile with anyone!
- I love my church, and I have to say that my church is spread all over the world- Phoenix, Bethlehem PA, Helsinki Finland, Richmond VA, Kansas City MO, Manhattan KS. I have encountered fellowship in these places and more, and have to say it is such a pleasure to my heart!
- I am the oldest of five children, widely acknowledged to be "the bossy one". Let's just say I know how to delegate! I am incredibly blessed by both my genetic family and my "in- law" family! I am a Neonatal ICU nurse, now taking a break from working to be home with Joe and Rod. I love my profession, and am very passionate about helping babies and their families through the most difficult times of their lives (both living and dying). You'll hear more about that too, I am sure.
- I love to cook, garden, decorate, dream, read, arrange flowers, scrapbook, ride my road bike, tickle my son, hang out with my lovely family and friends.
And, I guess that I love to share words, since I've shared so many! That's all for now, but I look forward to sharing this journey with you...
