Profile « The Happy Wonderer

Profile

March 4, 2007 by Ellen

Thanks for stopping by!

Here I am with my children.

Dan, Josh, Ellen b., Laura and Katie

My name is Ellen B. I’m one of 8 children born to Russian Immigrants and raised in East L.A., California. I’ve been happily married to “dear” for 32 years. We moved to the Seattle Area in 1988 and now 19 years later find ourselves living in Seattle and Southern California. We have 2 sons and a daughter. Our oldest son is married to a lovely lady whom we count as our 2nd daughter. I was educated to be an elementary school teacher but today my only employ is to spend “dear’s” money. What a wonderful job he has blessed me with. Besides taking care of our homes, I spend time in Bible study, bargain hunting, walking and reading. I love to search and find any information that helps me to honor my King, Jesus. I love to laugh and to smile. (I have the wrinkles to prove that) I hope you find some encouragement in what I share on my blog. I especially hope to honor the KING!

Blessings on your heads,

Ellen B.

Here are the contrasts I live with moving back and forth from the Seattle Area to the LA Area:

SEATTLE AREA LOS ANGELES AREA

1. With my kids                                                     1. With my husband
2. With my closest friends                                   2. With my siblings and parents
3. Good water from the tap                                 3. Bottled water
4. 4 distinct seasons                                              4. Sunshine most every day
5. Courteous Drivers (bad but courteous)        5. People that can merge
6. Well equipped large kitchen                            6. Small condo EZ to clean
7. Lot less dust (wet)                                            7. Lots and lots of dust (dry)
8. Fred Meyer                                                       8. Homegoods
9. Burke Gilman trail walks                                9. Neighborhood walks
10. Dick’s drive-in                                               10. In and Out
11. Tub’s Sub’s                                                     11. Jewish Deli’s
12. Lake Washington 2 miles away               12. Pacific Ocean 8 miles away
13. Whidbey Island ferry ride                       13. Santa Barbara close drive
14. Gasoline $2.50 a gallon (2007)                  14. Gasoline $2.99 a gallon (2007)
15. Many fine restaurants everywhere       15. Mexican restaurants everywhere
16. A Lawn to mow                                           16. A small patio to sweep
17. Old house with shop                                    17. New condo 1 car garage
18. Blueberry Bush                                             18. Strawberry stands
19. Pear Tree                                                       19. Avocados from sisters tree
20. Small Church                                                 20. Big church

I had this lined up well but for whatever reason it went wobbly on me. But alas, we’ve already established the fact that I am not a computer program wizard!

Update June 29, 2007 ~ Starting mid July I will be living full-time in Southern California with holiday and vacation trips to the Seattle area. We are keeping our home in Seattle and two of our adult children are living in it and taking care of it for us. Dear and I hope to return to Seattle when the Lord wills it…

42 Responses to “Profile”

on March 14, 2007 at 6:40 pm1 KristinMichele

Thanks for giving me your blogsite. You have been such a faithful reader of my blog and now I am excited to dive into yours! Love the WA vs CA contrast list! So true!

btw…also love the pic on the home page!
on March 14, 2007 at 6:48 pm2 Ellen

Hi Kristin,
Welcome.
love, ellen
on April 11, 2007 at 9:28 am3 pistolpete

You have a great site. And thank you for adding me to your blogroll. It is a privilege and an honor that I graciously accept.
on April 13, 2007 at 10:29 am4 Eric Swensson

Hi Ellen; You have a lovely blog. Listen I am doing some research on the Molokan community, religious-based research (is that how you spell it?). What is the story you know about origins? Do you trace it back to 1550’s or the 1800’s?

DO let me know. You can visit my blog and email me from there…

Peace,
Eric
on April 14, 2007 at 10:12 am5 Ellen

Howdy Pistol Pete,
Thanks. Glad someone found their way to my profile page.

Eric,
I emailed you so I hope you got the info. Yes it is spelled Molokans, “milk drinkers”.
on May 6, 2007 at 9:38 pm6 Jeanie Bog

Hello dear friend,
I love everything on your website! It is interesting, insightful, uplifting, educational, and good for the soul! Thanks for including Jim and I as one of your special friends - I am honored! Jeff graduated from Fresno Pacific U on May 5th too. What a fun day.
Love, Jeanie

Ellen backatcha: Hi Jeanie, Thanks for your encouragement. I just got into Seattle last night and saw the Graduation announcement. Congratulations!
on June 12, 2007 at 6:31 pm7 Kim

Thanks for stopping by my site the other day. I have enjoyed reading a bit of your blog and about you. I spent 3.5 years living in WA as a youngster. Some of the prettiest areas around. A toss up between “The Big Blue Sea” and “The Sea of Grass” (wheat fields of eastern WA). I look forward to reading more.
Blessings and Shalom,
Kim

Hi Kim, Western and Eastern Wasington are so different. Thanks for stopping by and shalom malekhem to you.
on June 19, 2007 at 1:46 pm8 Angie

Enjoyed your “1st time post” on Tuesday’s Other Words! You have a great blog! Sounds like you stay very busy going back and forth!
Have a blessed week!
Angie from NW Florida

Hi Angie, Thank you…
on June 26, 2007 at 6:21 am9 Penless Writer

I enjoyed reading this and learning about you.
Susan - Penless Writer

Susan, thanks for stopping by here…
on July 28, 2007 at 9:07 am10 diana

hi ellen,

it was fun reading some of your posts and getting to know you better through your profile here.

i grew up mostly in southern california so everything seems familiar. my husband, which i also call dear, and i, moved to colorado over 17 years ago. but all of our family is back in california, so we visit often. we miss the ocean more than anything.

you have so much here to look at, so i’ll be back.

Diana, Welcome to my blog and do come back. Blessings.
on September 2, 2007 at 7:32 am11 Mohawk Chieftain

I have to “wonder”:

Are you a “wonderer”, or are you a “wanderer”?

Mohawk Chieftain, Well you’ve certainly got me wondering about your name Mostly I wonder but sometimes I wander…
on September 11, 2007 at 9:32 pm12 Jan Ogden

Hi Ellen,
I appreciate your checking out my blog and the Moss Rose Tea Party. I wish you could see the view out the window. It’s of Eagle Lake. It’s hard to take a picture inside without a glare on the window.
You can see this God Given View on my other blog. Just had to share this with you since you mentioned the green trees that could be seen in the window as I took the picture.

Hugs,
Jan http://www.thevineandthebranches.blogspot.com
You can see what our “Tea Guests” are actually seeing out the window!

Hugs,
Jan

Jan, Thanks. Your retreat looks wonderful. I’ll have to bookmark you for the future…
on September 12, 2007 at 2:24 am13 steve

It’s a lovely place you have here Ellen, so glad i’ve found
you in my search for ‘Contemporary’ info!
Regards,
Steve.

Thanks Steve…
on September 14, 2007 at 10:57 am14 Jana

I live just North of Spokane I love the 4 seasons we have here.

Hi Jana, Ahh a fellow Washingtonian! I too love the 4 seasons. Born and raised in southern California we didn’t get many seasons but warm…
on September 21, 2007 at 7:08 am15 Heather Cox

Thanks for visiting my site - I’m returning the favor. Isn’t it so exciting to see how many women are all eagerly pursuing Him together in this great big world of the web? Keep on being passionate for Him!

Hi Heather, Thanks for stopping by, blessings…
on September 26, 2007 at 10:04 am16 Artidkc

I’ve enjoyed your blog, its content and leisurely pace…love the name too. Have added it in my Blog Surf. I write movies, books and entertainment reviews, a leisurely pursuit as well, and welcome you to stop by and visit. We’ve got the whole eternity to explore, to wonder, and to wander I suppose.

Artidkc, thanks for stopping by and commenting. I’ll check out your blog soon…
on October 9, 2007 at 8:21 pm17 realworldmartha

I am looking forward to reading your site. My mother was born in Compton and my hubby and I moved to the southwest from Oregon. So I enjoyed your comparison list. I am a Christian stay at home Mom of two boys. If you ever have any advise you want to share please do so on my blog: http:realworldmartha.wordpress.com
Blessings..Debbie

Hi Debbie, thanks for stopping by. I’ll be stopping by soon…
on October 16, 2007 at 4:17 pm18 comedyplus

How delightful. Thanks for sharing such an interesting life. I love how you spend “dears” money. Bwahahahahah.

CP, Thanks for leaving a comment and for always making me chuckle…
on October 26, 2007 at 4:27 am19 Crystal

Having lived in Nor Cal, and now living in WA again (lived in Tacoma until 89) I’ve got to say I love WA more, but what a great list. It’s cool to see how you are grateful for the unique culture of both locals.

I just don’t know that I could live somewhere that has more sunny days then not. Even people up here in WA think I’m crazy about that. But the seasons and the changes somehow are so important to my mood. And summer is my least favorite month. I am so jazzed that it’s really fall right now, all the leaves falling and such, and it seems like winter is coming soon this year. Sorry, I don’t mean to make you homesick for your other home. I just wanted to post that I appreciate your lists!

Crystal, I understand what your talking about. Don’t worry about making me homesick, I’m already homesick Blessings…
on October 26, 2007 at 3:01 pm20 SabineM

I have always wanted to live in Seattle. I think I would like it better then Southern Cal. I am originally from Switzerland, so the rain, bad weather, etc.. doesn’t scare me. I actually MISS IT ALOT!
Where in WA do you live?
I love your list!

Hi Sabine, I really think you’d love Seattle. My home in Seattle is on the East side of Lake Washington about 12 miles northeast of Seattle.
on December 11, 2007 at 4:36 am21 Doreen

Found your blog through Bridget’s and love it! (Bridget and my daughter Kara were college roommates and Bridget is the DIL of my good friend Dani.) Happy wondering!

hi Doreen, I left a comment at your blog! Blessings…
on December 27, 2007 at 4:47 pm22 queenbjan

I’m new at blogging and found your blog under heritage. You sound like a fun person to know. I’m curious about your Russian background.

Hi queen b, I went over to your site and couldn’t find anywhere to leave a comment. I’m glad you stopped by. Welcome to blogging…
on January 11, 2008 at 7:51 pm23 Kelly Leffel Tuski

Hi Ellen!

I was asking my Mom who we knew in the LA area, and she said YOU AND GREG were living down there! I had no idea!

We’re going to be in the area for a wedding and a “day-after-wedding” brunch, the weekend of February 16 - 18.

I was curious to know if you and Greg would be willing to have Aaron and I crash at your house on Sunday night? We got a free hotel night our first night, so you’d only have to put up with us that one night.

But really, it would be really great to see you guys! It has been so long since we’ve seen you and it would be great to catch up!

Will you let me know if that would work and if you’re willing to have a few house guests? Its ok if it doesn’t work out, we just thought of you as our best option!

Kelly Leffel Tuski

Hi Kelly! I’m emailing you…
on January 16, 2008 at 10:31 am24 Rhonda

Hey there - I’m blogrolling you, k?! Happy Hump Day
on January 23, 2008 at 11:18 am25 tulipfleurs

You have a beautiful family!
on January 26, 2008 at 5:48 pm26 queenbjan

I am passing on to you a blogging award. Follow my link to learn more about it. http://queenbjan.wordpress.com/2008/01/26/first-blog-award/
on February 8, 2008 at 4:30 pm27 chuck

i’m sure i’ve commented here b4, but i’m adding favs to technorati and came here to get more specifics on your site — i know. i’m totally procrastinating but having so much fun. but, i digress. Your comment about your King, Jesus struck me so hard, I had to say something. God bless you for stating this. Because of the way I was raised, I can’t get myself to tell people I feel that way. Some day, maybe; in the interim, I have to compliment those who share my love. I’m so happy you’re in the “sphere”! *huge huggies*
on February 11, 2008 at 11:03 am28 James Jett

You don’t get wrinkles from smiles and laughter, so yours must be from spending the money!
on February 16, 2008 at 12:01 pm29 Shady Gardener

Well… I get wrinkles from smiles and laughter, too. If you must get wrinkles, those are the best to get! Thanks for visiting my site. You are certainly on an adventure. Perhaps it’s also a blessing for your son and daughter-in-law to be able to live in your Seattle home?
on February 16, 2008 at 2:55 pm30 Barbara

Very ineresting to read the difference between your 2 homes.
on March 12, 2008 at 4:28 pm31 Tatiana U.

NO “fine” mexican restaurants in Southern California?.. Look for one with “chiles in nogada” or “mole poblano” exquisite plates that combine peppers, nuts, pomegranate and pumpkin seeds and chocolate in their respective recipes. Real jewels now adopted by the finest chefs of the so-called “nouvelle cuisine”. Compliments to you and “dear” for your beautiful family. Good luck!
on March 25, 2008 at 11:24 am32 Lydia(Beauty Will Surely Save the World)

Thank you for the banner compliment! I’m new to this blogging, etc. And what do you know, my first real comment recieved, and it’s from a fellow direct descent Russian/American!
Great info on the samovar. I’ve got my Mom’s old one, and a couple extras. One for each of my three children(21,18, and 12). On the web looking for a wooden cheese Paskha mold, as my grandfather’s broke. I’m Russian Orthodox and this year our Easter is sooo late-on 27 April
Thanx for stopping by from the tea blogathon:)! Your children are beautiful! Wonderfullly positive blog site Lydia
on March 25, 2008 at 1:21 pm33 humminbird

thanks for visiting my blog. I love that tea cup-it’s a treasure of mine. I look forward to coming back and reading more of your posts! Feel free to visit me as I am adding more content on day two of my tea blog.

have a lovely day!
on March 27, 2008 at 6:36 pm34 Neva

I have been happily married to hubby for 32 years as well! and we have 2 boys and girl in that order as well! no marriage’s yet…a small world…..
ok….I have a choice in my settings for blogspot…..
Anyone-includes anonymous (which I don’t want)
Registered users-includes open ID(which I have checked)
users with google account-which I HAD checked
only members to this blog
let me know how that works for you and thanks for trying to help….I love comments as we all do and I hate to arrive at a blog and have to mess with extra stuff that is just annoying and sometimes I just leave….not nice…but if it takes too much time…it cuts down on my blog reading! let me know if I helped or hindered you!
on March 27, 2008 at 6:36 pm35 Neva

BTW ….you family is stunning.
on April 2, 2008 at 9:09 am36 Nancy

Hi, Ellen - love your blog. Hope you’ll check out our Mother’s Day contest at http://www.HeresToGoodWomen.com!
on April 27, 2008 at 9:37 pm37 Kelly

I never read this page before…great photo by the way…but I’m thinking you need to update the gas prices. $2.99 was making me feel nostalgic.
on May 2, 2008 at 5:18 pm38 Flower

Hi Ellen, I haven’t looked at this before now. Great idea…or is it a method? Would it be alright if I put you on my blog? This will be something new for me!
on May 24, 2008 at 10:51 am39 ValancyJane

Wandered by, liked your blog!
on June 18, 2008 at 12:45 pm40 sally apokedak

Hi, Ellen. I came over to this page looking for a way to email you but can’t find an address.

I found your blog through the Spring Reading Thing, and I noticed that you have some children’s books on your list.

I’ve just started a blog tour group that will be touring children’s books–picture books, middle grade and YA.

I love your blog–your artistic bent–and I’d love to have you join us. If you have time, you can read about our tour at http://kidzbookbuzz.com . Check out the “Bloggers and Bystanders” page and the “Bloggers Guidelines” page.

thanks,

Sally Apokedak
on June 23, 2008 at 8:48 am41 Pat

Dear Ellen, I heard your name “Happy Wonderer” used by one of the men in “Mama Mia” last night. Of course when he refered to his self as the “Happy Wonderer”. I was taken to Hershey Theatre in PA by my daughter for my 72nd B-day. It was so full of good Abba music. I smiled all evening.
I love your blog and feel like I know you and where you live, as I have lived there also. Keep sharing, I’m sure you cheer more than myself out here. Thanks

Pat! Thanks and I’m happy you enjoy my blog. Congratulations on your 72nd birthday! Blessings…
on June 29, 2008 at 7:22 am42 Cori. G

What a fun list and darling children! It sounds like there are wonderful blessings in each location.

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