Tuesday, April 26, 2011
up to this point
I've been writing off and on for a few years, first on myspace, then on Facebook. I've copied all the entries from both and published them here. They are in chronological order with the date in the title, even though they look like they were all published today! I will blog on here in the future and link it to Facebook since I have a number of friends who are not on FB. I hope you are blessed and encouraged in some way by these writings and that Jesus is always glorified, in my joy and in my struggles. Please comment profusely, share your thoughts and ideas, I love to hear them. As I went back and reread all these, I was particularly blessed by all the comments that I received. I have such a wonderful community of people who love me and are for me. What a gift. As soon as we get a working camera I will post some recent pictures of our ducks and our adventures.
Pumpkin Waffles from Vegan with a Vengance by Isa Chandra Moskowitz 10/27/2010
2 1/2 cups flour
2 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
2 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp ginger
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1/4 tsp cloves
2 cups rice/soy/almond/cow/goat milk :)
1 15oz can pumpkin
1/3 cup oil
1/3 cup brown sugar
2 tsp vanilla
Mix dry ingredients except brown sugar. In a separate bowl mix the rest, incl brown sugar and whisk vigorously. Pour wet ingr. into dry and mix. Cook on a waffle iron. Try not to eat them all. They also freeze really well, i always make a double batch even though this recipe makes a lot. (24 regular waffles or 12 Belgian)
2 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
2 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp ginger
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1/4 tsp cloves
2 cups rice/soy/almond/cow/goat milk :)
1 15oz can pumpkin
1/3 cup oil
1/3 cup brown sugar
2 tsp vanilla
Mix dry ingredients except brown sugar. In a separate bowl mix the rest, incl brown sugar and whisk vigorously. Pour wet ingr. into dry and mix. Cook on a waffle iron. Try not to eat them all. They also freeze really well, i always make a double batch even though this recipe makes a lot. (24 regular waffles or 12 Belgian)
Do the Next Thing 3/28/2011
A poem quoted by Elisabeth Elliot...one of my favorites and a treasure for moms with vision that tarries.
Do The Next Thing
"At an old English parsonage down by the sea,
there came in the twilight a message to me.
Its quaint Saxon legend deeply engraven
has, as it seems to me, teaching from heaven.
And all through the hours the quiet words ring,
like a low inspiration, 'Do the next thing.'
Many a questioning, many a fear,
many a doubt hath its quieting here.
Moment by moment, let down from heaven,
time, opportunity, guidance are given.
Fear not tomorrow, child of the King,
trust that with Jesus, do the next thing.
Do it immediately, do it with prayer,
do it reliantly, casting all care.
Do it with reverence, tracing His hand,
who placed it before thee with earnest command.
Stayed on omnipotence, safe 'neath His wing,
leave all resultings, do the next thing.
Looking to Jesus, ever serener,
working or suffering be thy demeanor,
in His dear presence, the rest of His calm,
the light of His countenance, be thy psalm.
Strong in His faithfulness, praise and sing.
Then, as He beckons thee
Do the next thing."
Do The Next Thing
"At an old English parsonage down by the sea,
there came in the twilight a message to me.
Its quaint Saxon legend deeply engraven
has, as it seems to me, teaching from heaven.
And all through the hours the quiet words ring,
like a low inspiration, 'Do the next thing.'
Many a questioning, many a fear,
many a doubt hath its quieting here.
Moment by moment, let down from heaven,
time, opportunity, guidance are given.
Fear not tomorrow, child of the King,
trust that with Jesus, do the next thing.
Do it immediately, do it with prayer,
do it reliantly, casting all care.
Do it with reverence, tracing His hand,
who placed it before thee with earnest command.
Stayed on omnipotence, safe 'neath His wing,
leave all resultings, do the next thing.
Looking to Jesus, ever serener,
working or suffering be thy demeanor,
in His dear presence, the rest of His calm,
the light of His countenance, be thy psalm.
Strong in His faithfulness, praise and sing.
Then, as He beckons thee
Do the next thing."
Adventures at Starbucks 3/26/2011
My friend Cyndi and I were chatting at a local Starbucks when a commotion caught our eyes. A young girl, early 20's, who worked at Starbucks was ordering a man out of "her store". "Please leave now", she said. He looked fairly normal, until he looked right at Cyndi and I and said, "I want your heads". At that point we both looked down, and at each other, pretending we didn't hear and hoping he was just talking to the window, or he was crazy. It turns out, he was a little excitable. The Starbucks workers said he's been in before and is harmless but when someone wants your head, you can't be too careful. The gal locked the door and the man stayed right outside the door, looking right at us, mouthing, "I want your heads" and making cutting motions with his finger to his head. The Starbucks employees reassured us the police were on the way, and even now, their security guard was outside if we wanted to walk safely to our cars. "SECURITY GUARD"!!!, Cyndi exclaimed, "I wouldn't trust them...I was a security guard once"! (she is a tiny woman) We had a good laugh about that and when the police car showed up, we made our exit. As we were walking out, the man points and gestures at me and says, "and she stole my credit card"!! The large, female police officer, who was writing a ticket to the man, ignored him and said, "Sir, all I know is that you are a convicted felon in possession of a stolen shopping cart". I didn't stick around for the rest, and we both walked quickly to our cars laughing.
I just want to give the man some sympathy and say, "Sir, whoever you are, I understand. I am a little crazy in the head too sometimes, and I have a "normal" life. If I was a felon and all my possessions were in a shopping cart from a 99cent store, I would want someone's head too".
I just want to give the man some sympathy and say, "Sir, whoever you are, I understand. I am a little crazy in the head too sometimes, and I have a "normal" life. If I was a felon and all my possessions were in a shopping cart from a 99cent store, I would want someone's head too".
Angst 3/24/2010
Do you ever feel like something just isn't quite right, but it's hard to put your finger on exactly what it is? I've felt that way for a while now and I've come to the conclusion that life just makes you feel like that sometimes. It could be a holy discontent, the Lord leading you in a certain way, or it could be a longing for our real home. It could be a teaching time, a time of learning to trust and lean on Jesus when things don't feel right, or it could be sin, that needs a drop kick at the foot of the cross. It could be a rest is needed from the fight, or a sign that you need to fight with different weapons. (The weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but are mighty, to the pulling down of strongholds.)
My battle is always in my thought life, what I am choosing to believe. And I'm off because I have failed to remember. That was the Israelite's problem too, they forgot what God did for them. So today, I remind myself. It's sweet to trust Him, to know He's in control, He's making me "a mountain that cannot be shaken". He speaks of "the removing of those things which can be shaken, as of created things, so that those things which cannot be shaken may remain". My prayer today is Lord, continue to shake me, my heart, my life, my ambitions, my desires so that truly what cannot be shaken will remain. I know that is quite a risky prayer, on par with "Lord, humble me" but those who have prayed those prayers and have come out on the other side of the answer to that prayer are never sorry.
He says to me, "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you. Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle or they will not come to you. Many are the woes of the wicked but the Lords unfailing love surrounds the man who trusts in him."
I choose to believe, really believe that He is with me, He is for me, He loves me. I choose to really believe that this life is a mist, and my true home is elsewhere. I choose to really believe that His promises are true, even if I don't see them fulfilled now.
I left for California June 12 last year, so I've been gone from my hometown for nine months. I feel like I'm pregnant again and I feel the angst at the end when it's time, you're ready but it's not coming, and the waiting is endless. I want to see God's kingdom come, I want to see people brought into the Kingdom life, I want to see change. I want to see the Kingdom come in power, I want to see the hand of the Lord here where I was led by my Father. I long for that like a mother longs to hold her newborn baby and count the sweet fingers and toes. I want to see the goodness of the Lord. And yet I wait. And I choose to trust. And I hear "it's not time yet, but soon, very soon". One thing is for sure, I am not going to miss it. And another thing...I'm going to have fun while I wait for it!
My battle is always in my thought life, what I am choosing to believe. And I'm off because I have failed to remember. That was the Israelite's problem too, they forgot what God did for them. So today, I remind myself. It's sweet to trust Him, to know He's in control, He's making me "a mountain that cannot be shaken". He speaks of "the removing of those things which can be shaken, as of created things, so that those things which cannot be shaken may remain". My prayer today is Lord, continue to shake me, my heart, my life, my ambitions, my desires so that truly what cannot be shaken will remain. I know that is quite a risky prayer, on par with "Lord, humble me" but those who have prayed those prayers and have come out on the other side of the answer to that prayer are never sorry.
He says to me, "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you. Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle or they will not come to you. Many are the woes of the wicked but the Lords unfailing love surrounds the man who trusts in him."
I choose to believe, really believe that He is with me, He is for me, He loves me. I choose to really believe that this life is a mist, and my true home is elsewhere. I choose to really believe that His promises are true, even if I don't see them fulfilled now.
I left for California June 12 last year, so I've been gone from my hometown for nine months. I feel like I'm pregnant again and I feel the angst at the end when it's time, you're ready but it's not coming, and the waiting is endless. I want to see God's kingdom come, I want to see people brought into the Kingdom life, I want to see change. I want to see the Kingdom come in power, I want to see the hand of the Lord here where I was led by my Father. I long for that like a mother longs to hold her newborn baby and count the sweet fingers and toes. I want to see the goodness of the Lord. And yet I wait. And I choose to trust. And I hear "it's not time yet, but soon, very soon". One thing is for sure, I am not going to miss it. And another thing...I'm going to have fun while I wait for it!
He came that we would have LIFE to the fullest!
The Lord encouraged me through my shoes yesterday 2/1/2010
Sometimes, a thought feels like it "hits" me in the head, out of nowhere, and it's not something I was thinking. I conclude that these are usually from my Father. (as long as they sound like Him) ;)
Yesterday I was sitting in church and looking at my shoes. They are green suede with little tassels on the front and they are pretty cute. There were a gift from my friend Bekah, who is a shoe-worshiper, much like myself. Interesting gift, a pair of shoes. I don't know how many of you have received shoes as a gift, but I don't think it's in the top ten suggestions for gifts. But for me, it's significant. Last week, I received another pair of shoes as a gift, and as I began to think back on my life, shoes are sortof a theme.
As a young girl, I loved playing dress-up and my grandma and her sister were both super stylish and had tiny feet so when I visited, I could wear all their high-heeled, sparkly shoes. I was in heaven. They both had so many shoes, I would guess at least 50 pairs each. I was a flower girl for my Dad's cousins wedding and we were at his aunts house in a preparation time of some sort. I didn't care, I was in the closet, picking out shoes. I came running in the kitchen, slipped on the rug and bashed my front teeth out on the stool, just a few weeks before the wedding! The pictures are quite funny. (now they're funny, but when you're planning a perfect, beautiful wedding, you don't want your flower girl's face bashed in or her teeth missing)
In high school, my friend Charles lived with his grandma and she had foot surgery and ended up giving away about 15 pairs of shoes, to me! They were really nice and really expensive and some of them didn't fit me...but I wore them anyway. Just a few weeks ago, a coworker of Hutch gave us some hand-me down clothes and in the bags were a pair of Uggs. I'm not a brand-name buyer, but I do know those are expensive and I was pretty excited to get them. There were a size 6 and I wore them anyway. ( I wear size 9) After a bit of pondering, I decided that I needed to let go of the thought that I would own something that trendy, and gave them away to a friend. I'm sure my feet will thank me later! I shared this story with another friend and we laughed together at my antics. But, she went to Costco and got me some beautiful boots, just like the Uggs, but in my size! They are so great and comfortable.
As all these thoughts flashed through my mind, God told me, "Just walk, I will give you what you need."
It was so clear, so tender, so HIM. "Just walk, I will give you what you need."
And He reminded me of the scripture my mom spoke over me when I left for California. She was laughing that I was painting my toes at the going-away party but I was so excited to be going to flip-flop country and I wanted my feet to look pretty. And the Lord brought to her mind
7 How beautiful upon the mountains
Are the feet of him who brings good news,
Who proclaims peace,
Who brings glad tidings of good things,
Who proclaims salvation,
Who says to Zion,
“ Your God reigns!"
In his tender way, God again reminded me to
" Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one.
But He also told me that He would provide. As he has in the past, given me beautiful shoes that I didn't need but that delighted my heart, He will again, give me what I need and more.
Yesterday I was sitting in church and looking at my shoes. They are green suede with little tassels on the front and they are pretty cute. There were a gift from my friend Bekah, who is a shoe-worshiper, much like myself. Interesting gift, a pair of shoes. I don't know how many of you have received shoes as a gift, but I don't think it's in the top ten suggestions for gifts. But for me, it's significant. Last week, I received another pair of shoes as a gift, and as I began to think back on my life, shoes are sortof a theme.
As a young girl, I loved playing dress-up and my grandma and her sister were both super stylish and had tiny feet so when I visited, I could wear all their high-heeled, sparkly shoes. I was in heaven. They both had so many shoes, I would guess at least 50 pairs each. I was a flower girl for my Dad's cousins wedding and we were at his aunts house in a preparation time of some sort. I didn't care, I was in the closet, picking out shoes. I came running in the kitchen, slipped on the rug and bashed my front teeth out on the stool, just a few weeks before the wedding! The pictures are quite funny. (now they're funny, but when you're planning a perfect, beautiful wedding, you don't want your flower girl's face bashed in or her teeth missing)
In high school, my friend Charles lived with his grandma and she had foot surgery and ended up giving away about 15 pairs of shoes, to me! They were really nice and really expensive and some of them didn't fit me...but I wore them anyway. Just a few weeks ago, a coworker of Hutch gave us some hand-me down clothes and in the bags were a pair of Uggs. I'm not a brand-name buyer, but I do know those are expensive and I was pretty excited to get them. There were a size 6 and I wore them anyway. ( I wear size 9) After a bit of pondering, I decided that I needed to let go of the thought that I would own something that trendy, and gave them away to a friend. I'm sure my feet will thank me later! I shared this story with another friend and we laughed together at my antics. But, she went to Costco and got me some beautiful boots, just like the Uggs, but in my size! They are so great and comfortable.
As all these thoughts flashed through my mind, God told me, "Just walk, I will give you what you need."
It was so clear, so tender, so HIM. "Just walk, I will give you what you need."
And He reminded me of the scripture my mom spoke over me when I left for California. She was laughing that I was painting my toes at the going-away party but I was so excited to be going to flip-flop country and I wanted my feet to look pretty. And the Lord brought to her mind
7 How beautiful upon the mountains
Are the feet of him who brings good news,
Who proclaims peace,
Who brings glad tidings of good things,
Who proclaims salvation,
Who says to Zion,
“ Your God reigns!"
In his tender way, God again reminded me to
" Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one.
But He also told me that He would provide. As he has in the past, given me beautiful shoes that I didn't need but that delighted my heart, He will again, give me what I need and more.
Monday 1/18/2010
1 cup raw soaked steel cut oats with honey cinnamon and almond milk (that I make myself)
1 cup almond milk/ berry smoothie
1 large slice of homemade pizza (ww/cornmeal crust, homemade marinara and tj's pizza sauce, pepperoni, mozarella, 2 cups romaine with Caesar dressing
english breakfast tea with honey and almond milk
1/2 cup baby carrots
Lara bar, apple pie flavor
a few corn chips and a slice of cheddar
sauteed marinara with chicken and turkey meatballs (homemade last week)
I ate too late but I had to get to Costco before it closed.
Pretty proud of my day, it's the best one so far. I had a spotty night of sleep but somehow I made it through without coffee! The thought of writing this to you all keeps me many times from over indulging. Today, the morning was stressful, we're trying to get more school in than normal since I'm going to be gone and that was challenging. We found a CD that Song gave us from IHOP and it has a song on it called "we have the best Dad in the whole world" and it's such a wonderfully happy song and it was so fun to dance around with all my kiddos. Turning on crazy music and worshiping is the best way to break me out of a funk when dealing with character training.
It was raining so hard today I actually asked God to stop it, the water was slowly coming to our back door and flooding our whole patio. I swept the water away for awhile, and the thousand worms that crawl up too...a few minutes later the rain stopped. Hutch worked all night, I haven't pulled an all nighter since college, and even back then, I think I only pulled the intent of the all nighter, and by 3am, I was firmly convinced, I knew all I needed to know!
He came home and cheered me up, took a long nap, and let me go grocery shopping sans children. Did I mention how great he is? And my mom for that matter rocks my world. She is a powerful woman of God and she is taking the week off to come down and watch our kiddos and she actually bought her own ticket. HOW BLESSED ARE WE?????????????
I'm tempted to write more, because I don't think what I've written is very profound...but I don't want to be loquacious....forever speaking and saying nothing.
Going to bed tonight praying fervently for the orphans in Haiti. Maybe all the Christians could just adopt one...I think that would take care of that problem. I'm up for one!
1 cup almond milk/ berry smoothie
1 large slice of homemade pizza (ww/cornmeal crust, homemade marinara and tj's pizza sauce, pepperoni, mozarella, 2 cups romaine with Caesar dressing
english breakfast tea with honey and almond milk
1/2 cup baby carrots
Lara bar, apple pie flavor
a few corn chips and a slice of cheddar
sauteed marinara with chicken and turkey meatballs (homemade last week)
I ate too late but I had to get to Costco before it closed.
Pretty proud of my day, it's the best one so far. I had a spotty night of sleep but somehow I made it through without coffee! The thought of writing this to you all keeps me many times from over indulging. Today, the morning was stressful, we're trying to get more school in than normal since I'm going to be gone and that was challenging. We found a CD that Song gave us from IHOP and it has a song on it called "we have the best Dad in the whole world" and it's such a wonderfully happy song and it was so fun to dance around with all my kiddos. Turning on crazy music and worshiping is the best way to break me out of a funk when dealing with character training.
It was raining so hard today I actually asked God to stop it, the water was slowly coming to our back door and flooding our whole patio. I swept the water away for awhile, and the thousand worms that crawl up too...a few minutes later the rain stopped. Hutch worked all night, I haven't pulled an all nighter since college, and even back then, I think I only pulled the intent of the all nighter, and by 3am, I was firmly convinced, I knew all I needed to know!
He came home and cheered me up, took a long nap, and let me go grocery shopping sans children. Did I mention how great he is? And my mom for that matter rocks my world. She is a powerful woman of God and she is taking the week off to come down and watch our kiddos and she actually bought her own ticket. HOW BLESSED ARE WE?????????????
I'm tempted to write more, because I don't think what I've written is very profound...but I don't want to be loquacious....forever speaking and saying nothing.
Going to bed tonight praying fervently for the orphans in Haiti. Maybe all the Christians could just adopt one...I think that would take care of that problem. I'm up for one!
Sunday 1/17/2010
breakfast
plain green tea
unsweetened cranberry juice, LOVE trader joes.
2 cups lemon maple syrup cayenne drink
lunch
bowl tuscan white bean soup with parmesan
1 quesadilla with 2 small corn tortillas and mozarella
vitamins
water
dinner
Indian food for dinner from the Little India Bazaar, our new favorite.
1 Samosa with all kinds of sauces, onions, garbanzos btw it's $ .75! and the chicken is $1.99!
shared chicken curry with Hutch 1/2 cup white rice, 1/2 chapati, sweetened chai tea 2 very small cups
a few sips of Hutch's mango shake
coffee with cream
We go there and pray that God gives us a chance to show the love of Jesus to these beautiful people.
both meals made me feel tired after, I've heard food is supposed to give me energy. Perhaps it's too many beans/carbs. I am focusing more and more on how what I eat makes me feel. Went to church this morning, Hutch took Hannah and Jack to the climbing wall, I took a nap after lunch, messed with my ipod, put some fast songs into a workout playlist, took the kids to awana, went out for Indian food, picked up the kiddos, Hannah made dinner for the ducks which consisted of bananas and peanut butter, vanilla yogurt, orange juice. Hutch spent the evening cleaning, doing laundry, organizing some toys, and generally being the perfect husband. I read books and trained Benji how to sit still on my lap, that will take a few tries!
Today I'm stirred about adoption, especially praying for the orphans in Haiti. I am moved by the needs of the homeless here in Riverside, I am greatly troubled about some character issues in my firstborn and seeking God's wisdom in this. I was moved by a song this morning, He Is Stronger, I"ll post it on my wall. I am overwhelmed by the truth that sin is broken, Jesus saved me, He is Lord of all, even these details of my life. As I list the day's events and the smallest food I ate, I realize how little it is. I want to conquer bigger things. The truth is, when I am faithful in the little things He can make me ruler over much. I want people Lord, I want to see them meet You, know your love, really get what this life is all about. The kingdom of heaven isn't about eating and drinking, it's about righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.
plain green tea
unsweetened cranberry juice, LOVE trader joes.
2 cups lemon maple syrup cayenne drink
lunch
bowl tuscan white bean soup with parmesan
1 quesadilla with 2 small corn tortillas and mozarella
vitamins
water
dinner
Indian food for dinner from the Little India Bazaar, our new favorite.
1 Samosa with all kinds of sauces, onions, garbanzos btw it's $ .75! and the chicken is $1.99!
shared chicken curry with Hutch 1/2 cup white rice, 1/2 chapati, sweetened chai tea 2 very small cups
a few sips of Hutch's mango shake
coffee with cream
We go there and pray that God gives us a chance to show the love of Jesus to these beautiful people.
both meals made me feel tired after, I've heard food is supposed to give me energy. Perhaps it's too many beans/carbs. I am focusing more and more on how what I eat makes me feel. Went to church this morning, Hutch took Hannah and Jack to the climbing wall, I took a nap after lunch, messed with my ipod, put some fast songs into a workout playlist, took the kids to awana, went out for Indian food, picked up the kiddos, Hannah made dinner for the ducks which consisted of bananas and peanut butter, vanilla yogurt, orange juice. Hutch spent the evening cleaning, doing laundry, organizing some toys, and generally being the perfect husband. I read books and trained Benji how to sit still on my lap, that will take a few tries!
Today I'm stirred about adoption, especially praying for the orphans in Haiti. I am moved by the needs of the homeless here in Riverside, I am greatly troubled about some character issues in my firstborn and seeking God's wisdom in this. I was moved by a song this morning, He Is Stronger, I"ll post it on my wall. I am overwhelmed by the truth that sin is broken, Jesus saved me, He is Lord of all, even these details of my life. As I list the day's events and the smallest food I ate, I realize how little it is. I want to conquer bigger things. The truth is, when I am faithful in the little things He can make me ruler over much. I want people Lord, I want to see them meet You, know your love, really get what this life is all about. The kingdom of heaven isn't about eating and drinking, it's about righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.
Saturday 1/16/2010
I made sweet rolls for our group this morning, the yummiest thing ever made, and I ate two small ones along with my unsweetened coffee and small piece of vegetable fritatta. Luckily all my children inhaled the rest, leaving no left overs for me to say "no" to. God is good to me. Small piece of quiche for lunch with some chai tea. Planning on challenges tonight, going to a potluck dinner with a coworker of Hutch, and parties where the food is out all night are the biggest challenge. I resolve to take one plate for dinner, sit down and enjoy it, and not go back for seconds. There are three different people bringing dessert so I will have a small portion, but only if it's homemade. Nothing store bought. I will let you know later tonight that I kept my resolve.
I got up this morning at 5am and walked on the treadmill for 50 minutes and did an arm workout.
I will no longer try to live a balanced life. In the words of Yoda, "there is no try. There is only do or do not".
It's sunny, and 65 and I have nothing and I mean nothing to complain about.
Later that day...
SO.................... I DID IT!! And I totally skipped dessert, even my own homemade pistachio nut cake. I had a bite of Benji's. I had a delicious plate of tri tip meat with bbq sauce, one small white roll, one slice of tender pork, 1/4 cup each of beans and cheesy potatoes. Not exactly health food...but I had self control. Only one plate. I sat down and ate slowly and enjoyed it. Two bottles of water. And I'm going to bed at 9:30.
It feels so good to make these decisions..and YOU can do it too. If I can, anyone can.
Thank you for being my accountability, I was tempted to make myself a s'more when they were pulled out of the pantry and Hutch asked me, "do you want to tell everyone you ate that?" I realized I wanted more to say to you all, "I DID IT!!!"
One day at a time. And I am taking my friend Lisa's advice to pray. (what good advice) God knows my hair count, He surely is concerned with this struggle.
For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ. Titus 2:11-13
I got up this morning at 5am and walked on the treadmill for 50 minutes and did an arm workout.
I will no longer try to live a balanced life. In the words of Yoda, "there is no try. There is only do or do not".
It's sunny, and 65 and I have nothing and I mean nothing to complain about.
Later that day...
SO.................... I DID IT!! And I totally skipped dessert, even my own homemade pistachio nut cake. I had a bite of Benji's. I had a delicious plate of tri tip meat with bbq sauce, one small white roll, one slice of tender pork, 1/4 cup each of beans and cheesy potatoes. Not exactly health food...but I had self control. Only one plate. I sat down and ate slowly and enjoyed it. Two bottles of water. And I'm going to bed at 9:30.
It feels so good to make these decisions..and YOU can do it too. If I can, anyone can.
Thank you for being my accountability, I was tempted to make myself a s'more when they were pulled out of the pantry and Hutch asked me, "do you want to tell everyone you ate that?" I realized I wanted more to say to you all, "I DID IT!!!"
One day at a time. And I am taking my friend Lisa's advice to pray. (what good advice) God knows my hair count, He surely is concerned with this struggle.
For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ. Titus 2:11-13
Inspired...and will you help me? 1/15/2010
If you read this, and sometimes even comment, it will help me.
I am a comfort eater. And a don't-pay-attention eater. And a cheater-eater. A feast/famine eater.
I want to learn how to eat for the rest of my life, not on a diet...but when to say yes and when to say no. Balance for the love of sam. Tonight, for example, was a time to say no. I have been working out twice a day in order to get conditioned and lose a few extra pounds. I want to lose about 25 lbs but if I learn how to eat, exercise regularly, and the only result is increased energy, happiness, and endurance, it will be worth it. But I"m hoping I'll lose a few in the process...it seems to make logical sense that that would happen.
But, it seems that I am not one of THOSE people...the ones that say, "Oh, it was so easy, I just stopped eating white sugar and the pounds just melted away", or "ALL I did was add some walking and I lost 20 lbs in two months". I love those kind of people, and I'm happy for them. If I want to lose a pound I can't just do something simple. I have to do a regime for a long period of time.
So...I thought I embraced that "cross" at the beginning of the year. The one that says, "you don't get to eat a croissant for at least 6 months". But tonight, after a great week, I took my kids to...........I can hardly admit it................Wienerschnitzel. I bought them all 99cent milkshakes and hotdogs. And I bought one for myself. Now, I don't particularly love this kind of junk food, although it wasn't bad as far as junk food goes. But my special husband was working...and who would notice???? Well, now all of you have noticed, and that's the brilliant conclusion I came to tonight. I need accountability.
I'm going to bore you nightly with a food diary. Because even though THEY say you are more careful of what you eat when you write it down, that doesn't work for me. I came home, wrote down that I ate a corn dog (and finished off Ben's) and then searched my cupboards for something else bad to eat. Luckily, I have cleaned out the pantry and the worse culprit was OJ, of which I drank a big glass.
If I know I've given my word to you all, somehow that's easier for me to honor than my own word to myself. I"ll work out the psychological details of that later. For now, I will document every bite. (I helped the kids eat a chocolate Santa at the grocery store also), it truly was a pathetic night.
If it takes me all year, I will learn, lose, and grow...spiritual growth of course. So those of you who are horrified with my choice of dinner, you know who you are, and I know who you are, this is mostly for you. I am more concerned with my mood, my ability to care for my children, commune with God, and serve Him than physical characteristics. Truly. Of course it feels great to fit better into your clothes and not have jiggly arms, but those are secondary goals.
I watched the first episode of The Biggest Loser a few days ago, and thought to myself...what am I so concerned about, I'm not 300lbs! I"m not doing too bad. But I was inspired by their dedication to their health, and by their public weigh-in. So this is my public weigh in. So come on my journey with me, but I will caution you, it's already been a long one, and I think I'm back where I started again.
I am a comfort eater. And a don't-pay-attention eater. And a cheater-eater. A feast/famine eater.
I want to learn how to eat for the rest of my life, not on a diet...but when to say yes and when to say no. Balance for the love of sam. Tonight, for example, was a time to say no. I have been working out twice a day in order to get conditioned and lose a few extra pounds. I want to lose about 25 lbs but if I learn how to eat, exercise regularly, and the only result is increased energy, happiness, and endurance, it will be worth it. But I"m hoping I'll lose a few in the process...it seems to make logical sense that that would happen.
But, it seems that I am not one of THOSE people...the ones that say, "Oh, it was so easy, I just stopped eating white sugar and the pounds just melted away", or "ALL I did was add some walking and I lost 20 lbs in two months". I love those kind of people, and I'm happy for them. If I want to lose a pound I can't just do something simple. I have to do a regime for a long period of time.
So...I thought I embraced that "cross" at the beginning of the year. The one that says, "you don't get to eat a croissant for at least 6 months". But tonight, after a great week, I took my kids to...........I can hardly admit it................Wienerschnitzel. I bought them all 99cent milkshakes and hotdogs. And I bought one for myself. Now, I don't particularly love this kind of junk food, although it wasn't bad as far as junk food goes. But my special husband was working...and who would notice???? Well, now all of you have noticed, and that's the brilliant conclusion I came to tonight. I need accountability.
I'm going to bore you nightly with a food diary. Because even though THEY say you are more careful of what you eat when you write it down, that doesn't work for me. I came home, wrote down that I ate a corn dog (and finished off Ben's) and then searched my cupboards for something else bad to eat. Luckily, I have cleaned out the pantry and the worse culprit was OJ, of which I drank a big glass.
If I know I've given my word to you all, somehow that's easier for me to honor than my own word to myself. I"ll work out the psychological details of that later. For now, I will document every bite. (I helped the kids eat a chocolate Santa at the grocery store also), it truly was a pathetic night.
If it takes me all year, I will learn, lose, and grow...spiritual growth of course. So those of you who are horrified with my choice of dinner, you know who you are, and I know who you are, this is mostly for you. I am more concerned with my mood, my ability to care for my children, commune with God, and serve Him than physical characteristics. Truly. Of course it feels great to fit better into your clothes and not have jiggly arms, but those are secondary goals.
I watched the first episode of The Biggest Loser a few days ago, and thought to myself...what am I so concerned about, I'm not 300lbs! I"m not doing too bad. But I was inspired by their dedication to their health, and by their public weigh-in. So this is my public weigh in. So come on my journey with me, but I will caution you, it's already been a long one, and I think I'm back where I started again.
no.
no.
yes.
Prayer and ministry 12/9/2009
In the context of our verbose culture, it is significant to hear the Desert Fathers discouraging us from using too many words. "There is no need to make long discourses; it is enough to stretch out one's hand and say,' Lord, as you will, and as you know, have mercy.'" And if the conflict grows fiercer say "Lord, help." He knows very well what we need and He shows us His mercy. One word or phrase can take us into the heart and take us into God's presence. Even when we are talking, studying, gardening, or building the prayer can continue in our heart and keep us aware of God's ever-present guidance.
This is true when praying for others. There is an intimate relationship between prayer and ministry. The discipline of leading all our people with their struggles into the gentle and humble heart of God is the discipline of prayer as well as the discipline of ministry. As long as ministry only means that we worry a lot about people and their problems; as long as it means an endless number of activities which we can hardly coordinate, we are still very much dependent on our own narrow and anxious heart. But when our worries are led to the heart of God and there become prayer, then ministry and prayer become two manifestations of the same all-embracing love of God.
The prayer of the heart is the breath of the spiritual life and of all ministry. Indeed, prayer is not simply an important activity, but the very center of the new life which we want to represent and to which we want to introduce our people.
(adapted from the Way of the Heart by Henry Nouwen)
As I carry the burdens of those God has placed in my path, I remind myself, His yoke is easy, and His burden is light. As I walk in intimacy with Him and am found communing with him daily, hourly, His life flows through me and I need it. Without it, my own efforts will fall so short. He is the Savior, not me.
What are your thoughts? Ministry, prayer, intimacy, surrender, and fathering are the things I'm pondering lately.
What are you pondering?
This is true when praying for others. There is an intimate relationship between prayer and ministry. The discipline of leading all our people with their struggles into the gentle and humble heart of God is the discipline of prayer as well as the discipline of ministry. As long as ministry only means that we worry a lot about people and their problems; as long as it means an endless number of activities which we can hardly coordinate, we are still very much dependent on our own narrow and anxious heart. But when our worries are led to the heart of God and there become prayer, then ministry and prayer become two manifestations of the same all-embracing love of God.
The prayer of the heart is the breath of the spiritual life and of all ministry. Indeed, prayer is not simply an important activity, but the very center of the new life which we want to represent and to which we want to introduce our people.
(adapted from the Way of the Heart by Henry Nouwen)
As I carry the burdens of those God has placed in my path, I remind myself, His yoke is easy, and His burden is light. As I walk in intimacy with Him and am found communing with him daily, hourly, His life flows through me and I need it. Without it, my own efforts will fall so short. He is the Savior, not me.
What are your thoughts? Ministry, prayer, intimacy, surrender, and fathering are the things I'm pondering lately.
What are you pondering?
excerpt from JP Morelands book, the Kingdom Triangle 12/2/2009
Chapter One:
The Hunger for Drama in a Thin World
Helen Roseveare is a physician from Northern Ireland who has served as a medical missionary in Zaire, Africa, and the surrounding region for some time. Here, in her own words, is an eyewitness account about a hot water bottle. I would love to sit down with you and ask your honest, unfiltered reaction to this story. Your response would tell me a lot about you - specifically, whether you believe the naturalist, the postmodernist, or the Christian story. But I'm getting ahead of myself. These vastly different perspectives will be the focus of the next three chapters. For now, here is what Dr. Roseveare heard and saw. It's a bit long, but as you will soon see, it's well worth the time.
One night, in Central Africa, I had worked hard to help a mother in the labor ward; but in spite of all that we could do, she died leaving us with a tiny, premature baby and a crying, two-year-old daughter. We would have difficulty keeping the baby alive. We had no incubator. We had no electricity to run an incubator, and no special feeding facilities. Although we lived on the equator, nights were often chilly with treacherous drafts.
A student-midwife went for the box we had for such babies and for the cotton wool that the baby would be wrapped in. Another went to stoke up the fire and fill a hot water bottle. She came back shortly, in distress, to tell me that in filling the bottle, it had burst. Rubber perishes easily in tropical climates. ". . . and it is our last hot water bottle!" she exclaimed. As in the West, it is no good crying over spilled milk; so, in Central Africa it might be considered no good crying over a burst water bottle. They do not grow on trees, and there are no drugstores down forest pathways. "All right," I said, "Put the baby as near the fire as you safely can; sleep between the baby and the door to keep it free from drafts. Your job is to keep the baby warm."
The following noon, as I did most days, I went to have prayers with many of the orphanage children who chose to gather with me. I gave the youngsters various suggestions of things to pray about and told them about the tiny baby. I explained our problem about keeping the baby warm enough, mentioning the hot water bottle. The baby could so easily die if it got chilled. I also told them about the two-year-old sister, crying because her mother had died. During the prayer time, one ten-year-old girl, Ruth, prayed with the usual blunt consciousness of our African children. "Please, God," she prayed, "send us a water bottle. It'll be no good tomorrow, God, the baby'll be dead; so, please send it this afternoon." While I gasped inwardly at the audacity of the prayer, she added by way of corollary, "and while You are about it, would You please send a dolly for the little girl so she'll know You really love her?"
As often with children's prayers, I was put on the spot. Could I honestly say, "Amen"? I just did not believe that God could do this. Oh, yes, I know that He can do everything: The Bible says so, but there are limits, aren't there? The only way God could answer this particular prayer would be by sending a parcel from the homeland. I had been in Africa for almost four years at that time, and I had never, ever received a parcel from home. Anyway, if anyone did send a parcel, who would put in a hot water bottle? I lived on the equator!
Halfway through the afternoon, while I was teaching in the nurses training school, a message was sent that there was a car at my front door. By the time that I reached home, the car had gone, but there, on the veranda, was a large twenty-two pound parcel! I felt tears pricking my eyes. I could not open the parcel alone; so, I sent for the orphanage children. Together we pulled off the string, carefully undoing each knot. We folded the paper, taking care not to tear it unduly. Excitement was mounting. Some thirty or forty pairs of eyes were focused on the large cardboard box. From the top, I lifted out brightly colored, knitted jerseys. Eyes sparkled as I gave them out. Then, there were the knitted bandages for the leprosy patients, and the children began to look a little bored. Next came a box of mixed raisins and sultanas - that would make a nice batch of buns for the weekend. As I put my hand in again, I felt the . . . could it really be? I grasped it, and pulled it out. Yes, "A brand-new rubber, hot water bottle!" I cried. I had not asked God to send it; I had not truly believed that He could.
Ruth was in the front row of the children. She rushed forward, crying out, "If God has sent the bottle, He must have sent the dolly, too!" Rummaging down to the bottom of the box, she pulled out the small, beautifully dressed dolly. Her eyes shone: She had never doubted! Looking up at me, she asked, "Can I go over with you, Mummy, and give this dolly to that little girl, so she'll know that Jesus really loves her?"
That parcel had been on the way for five whole months, packed up by my former Sunday School class, whose leader had heard and obeyed God's prompting to send a hot water bottle, even to the equator. One of the girls had put in a dolly for an African child - five months earlier in answer to the believing prayer of a ten-year-old to bring it "That afternoon!" "And it shall come to pass, that before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear." Isaiah 65:24
What do you make of this? Your answer will depend, in part, on your worldview. If you are a naturalist, you're likely to think that the story is a fabrication. Dr. Roseveare is either a bald-faced liar or someone with such a desire to promote her religion that she is prone to exaggeration and the selective employment of a self-serving, faulty memory. Or maybe it's just a big coincidence. But a miracle? Nonsense! Such things are unscientific relics of an age gone by.
If you are a postmodernist, you may think that this is just wonderful for Dr. Roseveare, Ruth, the baby, and others close to the story. It's great that these people have their truth, but we all have our story that's true for us, and no one has a corner on this market. It would be intolerant and downright bigoted for Dr. Roseveare to force her beliefs on other people. The story may confirm Dr. Roseveare's truth, but there are lots of other truths out there.
If you are a Christian, you are either incredibly touched and encouraged at this kind act of God, or you are wearied by it. These things happen to other people, you may reason, especially to those on the mission field. They don't happen to my friends or me, so I can't really relate to the story. Regardless of your worldview, if you read the story carefully and with feeling, there's something about it that's hard to dismiss - it is filled with drama.
The Hunger for Drama in a Thin World
Helen Roseveare is a physician from Northern Ireland who has served as a medical missionary in Zaire, Africa, and the surrounding region for some time. Here, in her own words, is an eyewitness account about a hot water bottle. I would love to sit down with you and ask your honest, unfiltered reaction to this story. Your response would tell me a lot about you - specifically, whether you believe the naturalist, the postmodernist, or the Christian story. But I'm getting ahead of myself. These vastly different perspectives will be the focus of the next three chapters. For now, here is what Dr. Roseveare heard and saw. It's a bit long, but as you will soon see, it's well worth the time.
One night, in Central Africa, I had worked hard to help a mother in the labor ward; but in spite of all that we could do, she died leaving us with a tiny, premature baby and a crying, two-year-old daughter. We would have difficulty keeping the baby alive. We had no incubator. We had no electricity to run an incubator, and no special feeding facilities. Although we lived on the equator, nights were often chilly with treacherous drafts.
A student-midwife went for the box we had for such babies and for the cotton wool that the baby would be wrapped in. Another went to stoke up the fire and fill a hot water bottle. She came back shortly, in distress, to tell me that in filling the bottle, it had burst. Rubber perishes easily in tropical climates. ". . . and it is our last hot water bottle!" she exclaimed. As in the West, it is no good crying over spilled milk; so, in Central Africa it might be considered no good crying over a burst water bottle. They do not grow on trees, and there are no drugstores down forest pathways. "All right," I said, "Put the baby as near the fire as you safely can; sleep between the baby and the door to keep it free from drafts. Your job is to keep the baby warm."
The following noon, as I did most days, I went to have prayers with many of the orphanage children who chose to gather with me. I gave the youngsters various suggestions of things to pray about and told them about the tiny baby. I explained our problem about keeping the baby warm enough, mentioning the hot water bottle. The baby could so easily die if it got chilled. I also told them about the two-year-old sister, crying because her mother had died. During the prayer time, one ten-year-old girl, Ruth, prayed with the usual blunt consciousness of our African children. "Please, God," she prayed, "send us a water bottle. It'll be no good tomorrow, God, the baby'll be dead; so, please send it this afternoon." While I gasped inwardly at the audacity of the prayer, she added by way of corollary, "and while You are about it, would You please send a dolly for the little girl so she'll know You really love her?"
As often with children's prayers, I was put on the spot. Could I honestly say, "Amen"? I just did not believe that God could do this. Oh, yes, I know that He can do everything: The Bible says so, but there are limits, aren't there? The only way God could answer this particular prayer would be by sending a parcel from the homeland. I had been in Africa for almost four years at that time, and I had never, ever received a parcel from home. Anyway, if anyone did send a parcel, who would put in a hot water bottle? I lived on the equator!
Halfway through the afternoon, while I was teaching in the nurses training school, a message was sent that there was a car at my front door. By the time that I reached home, the car had gone, but there, on the veranda, was a large twenty-two pound parcel! I felt tears pricking my eyes. I could not open the parcel alone; so, I sent for the orphanage children. Together we pulled off the string, carefully undoing each knot. We folded the paper, taking care not to tear it unduly. Excitement was mounting. Some thirty or forty pairs of eyes were focused on the large cardboard box. From the top, I lifted out brightly colored, knitted jerseys. Eyes sparkled as I gave them out. Then, there were the knitted bandages for the leprosy patients, and the children began to look a little bored. Next came a box of mixed raisins and sultanas - that would make a nice batch of buns for the weekend. As I put my hand in again, I felt the . . . could it really be? I grasped it, and pulled it out. Yes, "A brand-new rubber, hot water bottle!" I cried. I had not asked God to send it; I had not truly believed that He could.
Ruth was in the front row of the children. She rushed forward, crying out, "If God has sent the bottle, He must have sent the dolly, too!" Rummaging down to the bottom of the box, she pulled out the small, beautifully dressed dolly. Her eyes shone: She had never doubted! Looking up at me, she asked, "Can I go over with you, Mummy, and give this dolly to that little girl, so she'll know that Jesus really loves her?"
That parcel had been on the way for five whole months, packed up by my former Sunday School class, whose leader had heard and obeyed God's prompting to send a hot water bottle, even to the equator. One of the girls had put in a dolly for an African child - five months earlier in answer to the believing prayer of a ten-year-old to bring it "That afternoon!" "And it shall come to pass, that before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear." Isaiah 65:24
What do you make of this? Your answer will depend, in part, on your worldview. If you are a naturalist, you're likely to think that the story is a fabrication. Dr. Roseveare is either a bald-faced liar or someone with such a desire to promote her religion that she is prone to exaggeration and the selective employment of a self-serving, faulty memory. Or maybe it's just a big coincidence. But a miracle? Nonsense! Such things are unscientific relics of an age gone by.
If you are a postmodernist, you may think that this is just wonderful for Dr. Roseveare, Ruth, the baby, and others close to the story. It's great that these people have their truth, but we all have our story that's true for us, and no one has a corner on this market. It would be intolerant and downright bigoted for Dr. Roseveare to force her beliefs on other people. The story may confirm Dr. Roseveare's truth, but there are lots of other truths out there.
If you are a Christian, you are either incredibly touched and encouraged at this kind act of God, or you are wearied by it. These things happen to other people, you may reason, especially to those on the mission field. They don't happen to my friends or me, so I can't really relate to the story. Regardless of your worldview, if you read the story carefully and with feeling, there's something about it that's hard to dismiss - it is filled with drama.
Let the peace of God rule (arbitrate) in your hearts 11/20/2009
"If our peace is broken...it can only be because of sin.
Shall we not begin from today to allow our lives to be ruled by the heavenly Dove, the peace of God and allow Him to be the arbiter all the day through? We shall find ourselves walking in a path of constant conviction and much humbling, but in this way we shall come into real conformity with the Lamb of God and we shall know the only victory that is worth anything, the conquest of self."
I repent Lord of doing things my own way, of my own efforts to live the Christian life and to do God's work, I repent of fighting for my rights and not laying them down and you did Jesus, I repent of defending myself and I receive your forgiveness, your beautiful mercy and grace that you give so freely. Thank you for showing me a better way...your way...and I choose today to let your peace rule in my heart. And Father, for those who are starting their day without peace, will you give it to them? Show them your kindness and love, give them your eyes to see, keep them from the evil one, give them hope that you are FOR them, and you know them. You are amazing.
Shall we not begin from today to allow our lives to be ruled by the heavenly Dove, the peace of God and allow Him to be the arbiter all the day through? We shall find ourselves walking in a path of constant conviction and much humbling, but in this way we shall come into real conformity with the Lamb of God and we shall know the only victory that is worth anything, the conquest of self."
I repent Lord of doing things my own way, of my own efforts to live the Christian life and to do God's work, I repent of fighting for my rights and not laying them down and you did Jesus, I repent of defending myself and I receive your forgiveness, your beautiful mercy and grace that you give so freely. Thank you for showing me a better way...your way...and I choose today to let your peace rule in my heart. And Father, for those who are starting their day without peace, will you give it to them? Show them your kindness and love, give them your eyes to see, keep them from the evil one, give them hope that you are FOR them, and you know them. You are amazing.
deep thoughts 8/20/2009
Whenever I’m Facebook stalking someone and I find out that their profile is public I feel like a kid on Christmas morning who just got the Red Ryder BB gun that I always wanted. 546 pictures? Don’t mind if I do!
MapQuest really needs to start their directions on #5. Pretty sure I know how to get out of my neighborhood.
I think part of a best friend’s job should be to immediately clear your computer history if you die.
The only time I look forward to a red light is when I’m trying to finish a text.
Was learning cursive really necessary?
LOL has gone from meaning, “laugh out loud” to “I have nothing else to say”.
That’s enough, Nickelback.
Answering the same letter three times or more in a row on a Scantron test is absolutely petrifying.
How many times is it appropriate to say “What?” before you just nod and smile because you still didn’t hear what they said?
Every time I have to spell a word over the phone using ‘as in’ examples, I will undoubtedly draw a blank and sound like a complete idiot. Today I had to spell my boss’s last name to an attorney and said “Yes that’s G as in…(10 second lapse)..ummm…Goonies.”
You never know when it will strike, but there comes a moment at work when you’ve made up your mind that you just aren’t doing anything productive for the rest of the day.
Bad decisions make good stories
The letters T and G are very close to each other on a keyboard. This recently became all too apparent to me and consequently I will never be ending a work email with the phrase “Regards” again.
Why is a school zone 20 mph? That seems like the optimal cruising speed for pedophiles…
As a driver I hate pedestrians, and as a pedestrian I hate drivers, but no matter what the mode of transportation, I always hate cyclists.
Sometimes I’ll look down at my watch 3 consecutive times and still not know what time it is.
It should probably be called Unplanned Parenthood.
I think that if, years down the road when I’m trying to have a kid, I find out that I’m sterile, most of my disappointment will stem from the fact that I was not aware of my condition in college.
Do you remember when you were a kid, playing Nintendo and it wouldn’t work? You take the cartridge out, blow in it and that would magically fix the problem. Every kid in America did that, but how did we all know how to fix the problem? There was no internet or message boards or FAQ’s. We just figured it out. Today’s kids are soft.
There is a great need for sarcasm font.
Sometimes, I’ll watch a movie that I watched when I was younger and suddenly realize I had no idea what the heck was going on when I first saw it.
How the hell are you supposed to fold a fitted sheet?
I’m always slightly terrified when I exit out of Word and it asks me if I want to save any changes to my ten page research paper that I swear I did not make any changes to.
While watching the Olympics, I find myself cheering equally for China and USA . No, I am not of Chinese descent, but I am fairly certain that when Chinese athletes don’t win, they are executed.
I like all of the music in my iTunes, except when it’s on shuffle, then I like about one in every fifteen songs in my iTunes.
Even under ideal conditions people have trouble locating their car keys in a pocket, hitting the G-spot, and Pinning the Tail on the Donkey - but I’d bet my ass everyone can find and push the Snooze button from 3 feet away, in about 1.7 seconds, eyes closed, first time every time…
I wonder if cops ever get pissed off at the fact that everyone they drive behind obeys the speed limit.
I think the freezer deserves a light as well.
I disagree with Kay Jewelers. I would bet on any given Friday or Saturday night more kisses begin with Miller Lites than Kay.
More often than not, when someone is telling me a story all I can think about is that I can’t wait for them to finish so that I can tell my own story that’s not only better, but also more directly involves me.
Nothing sucks more than that moment during an argument when you realize you’re wrong.
I don’t understand the purpose of the line, “I don’t need to drink to have fun.” Great, no one does. But why start a fire with flint and sticks when they’ve invented the lighter?
Have you ever been walking down the street and realized that you’re going in the complete opposite direction of where you are supposed to be going? But instead of just turning a 180 and walking back in the direction from which you came, you have to first do something like check your watch or phone or make a grand arm gesture and mutter to yourself to ensure that no one in the surrounding area thinks you’re crazy by randomly switching directions on the sidewalk.
MapQuest really needs to start their directions on #5. Pretty sure I know how to get out of my neighborhood.
I think part of a best friend’s job should be to immediately clear your computer history if you die.
The only time I look forward to a red light is when I’m trying to finish a text.
Was learning cursive really necessary?
LOL has gone from meaning, “laugh out loud” to “I have nothing else to say”.
That’s enough, Nickelback.
Answering the same letter three times or more in a row on a Scantron test is absolutely petrifying.
How many times is it appropriate to say “What?” before you just nod and smile because you still didn’t hear what they said?
Every time I have to spell a word over the phone using ‘as in’ examples, I will undoubtedly draw a blank and sound like a complete idiot. Today I had to spell my boss’s last name to an attorney and said “Yes that’s G as in…(10 second lapse)..ummm…Goonies.”
You never know when it will strike, but there comes a moment at work when you’ve made up your mind that you just aren’t doing anything productive for the rest of the day.
Bad decisions make good stories
The letters T and G are very close to each other on a keyboard. This recently became all too apparent to me and consequently I will never be ending a work email with the phrase “Regards” again.
Why is a school zone 20 mph? That seems like the optimal cruising speed for pedophiles…
As a driver I hate pedestrians, and as a pedestrian I hate drivers, but no matter what the mode of transportation, I always hate cyclists.
Sometimes I’ll look down at my watch 3 consecutive times and still not know what time it is.
It should probably be called Unplanned Parenthood.
I think that if, years down the road when I’m trying to have a kid, I find out that I’m sterile, most of my disappointment will stem from the fact that I was not aware of my condition in college.
Do you remember when you were a kid, playing Nintendo and it wouldn’t work? You take the cartridge out, blow in it and that would magically fix the problem. Every kid in America did that, but how did we all know how to fix the problem? There was no internet or message boards or FAQ’s. We just figured it out. Today’s kids are soft.
There is a great need for sarcasm font.
Sometimes, I’ll watch a movie that I watched when I was younger and suddenly realize I had no idea what the heck was going on when I first saw it.
How the hell are you supposed to fold a fitted sheet?
I’m always slightly terrified when I exit out of Word and it asks me if I want to save any changes to my ten page research paper that I swear I did not make any changes to.
While watching the Olympics, I find myself cheering equally for China and USA . No, I am not of Chinese descent, but I am fairly certain that when Chinese athletes don’t win, they are executed.
I like all of the music in my iTunes, except when it’s on shuffle, then I like about one in every fifteen songs in my iTunes.
Even under ideal conditions people have trouble locating their car keys in a pocket, hitting the G-spot, and Pinning the Tail on the Donkey - but I’d bet my ass everyone can find and push the Snooze button from 3 feet away, in about 1.7 seconds, eyes closed, first time every time…
I wonder if cops ever get pissed off at the fact that everyone they drive behind obeys the speed limit.
I think the freezer deserves a light as well.
I disagree with Kay Jewelers. I would bet on any given Friday or Saturday night more kisses begin with Miller Lites than Kay.
More often than not, when someone is telling me a story all I can think about is that I can’t wait for them to finish so that I can tell my own story that’s not only better, but also more directly involves me.
Nothing sucks more than that moment during an argument when you realize you’re wrong.
I don’t understand the purpose of the line, “I don’t need to drink to have fun.” Great, no one does. But why start a fire with flint and sticks when they’ve invented the lighter?
Have you ever been walking down the street and realized that you’re going in the complete opposite direction of where you are supposed to be going? But instead of just turning a 180 and walking back in the direction from which you came, you have to first do something like check your watch or phone or make a grand arm gesture and mutter to yourself to ensure that no one in the surrounding area thinks you’re crazy by randomly switching directions on the sidewalk.
A friend for Jack 7/15/2009
Yesterday Jack was playing a video game and then uncharacteristically stopped and came and sat by me. I didn't realize for a few minutes that he was just sitting there. I stopped what I was doing and focused on him and his lower lip started trembling and he explained that he was playing a game that reminded him of Isaiah and how much he missed his friend. He started really crying and I was crying right there with him. We prayed, watched Batman together (the real one) and then went to the park that night where he met a boy that was questionable. They rode scooters together but I thought the boy might not be good for Jack and I was feeling that tight-hearted feeling that I might have to intervene. (no evidence, just didn't get to know the kid)
Jack talked all day about his new friend and planned on going to the park tonight so I went with much apprehension.
They joyfully met and started riding scooters and few minutes later, as I was observing and trying to get a feel for this kid, his mom came up and introduced herself. She happens to have 6 boys (22,20, 18, 16, 7, 3), she homeschools, and has been praying for a friend for her son. I instantly burst into tears right there on the playgound and this perfect stranger comforted me! (I'm sure we'll be friends!) God is so good to give us everything we need!
Jack talked all day about his new friend and planned on going to the park tonight so I went with much apprehension.
They joyfully met and started riding scooters and few minutes later, as I was observing and trying to get a feel for this kid, his mom came up and introduced herself. She happens to have 6 boys (22,20, 18, 16, 7, 3), she homeschools, and has been praying for a friend for her son. I instantly burst into tears right there on the playgound and this perfect stranger comforted me! (I'm sure we'll be friends!) God is so good to give us everything we need!
coulda been really bad 6/13/2009
Our little white car is hitched onto the moving truck with a canoe tied to the top. We "randomly" decided to stop for coffee and hunted down a starbucks (because my aunt gave us $100 to starbucks) and we went about 5 miles off the freeway. As we were pulling out, the car slid off the hitch. I noticed it right away since I was close and we were only going a few mph. We stopped, had an angel of an old man help us, and we were on the road in less than 15 min! GOD IS SO GOOD and GRACIOUS to us!!! If that would have happened on the freeway, I don't even want to think of what would have happened. God gives me patience in the evenings so I put the children to bed while Hutch unloads because he's cranky. Then, I check out in the mornings while he wrangles the kiddos because I'm cranky. It's perfect!
We had a brutal day of driving yesterday, 8 hours for 225 miles, I'm glad we are not in a hurry!
We had a brutal day of driving yesterday, 8 hours for 225 miles, I'm glad we are not in a hurry!
Paul Tripp: Instruments in the Redeemers Hands 5/26/2009
Paul Tripp:
I find myself saying it all the time. When people hear it they laugh, but actually I'm being quite serious when I say it. Here it is. No one is more influential in your life than you are because no one talks to you more than you do. You're in an unending conversation with yourself. You're talking to yourself all the time, interpreting, organizing, and analyzing what's going on inside you and around you.
You may be talking to yourself about why you feel so tired. Or maybe you woke up this morning with a sense of dread and you're not sure why....Perhaps you're reliving a conversation that didn't go too well. Or maybe [you're] preparing yourself for a conversation that may be difficult by conjuring up as many renditions as you can imagine, so you can cover all the contingencies. Maybe your mind has traveled back to your distant past and, for reasons you don't understand, you're recalling events from your early childhood....
The point is that you are constantly involved in an internal conversation that greatly influences the things you decide, say, and do....
What do you regularly tell yourself about yourself, God, and your circumstances? Do your words to you encourage faith, hope, and courage? Or do they stimulate doubt, discouragement, and fear? Do you remind yourself that God is near, or do you reason within yourself, given your circumstances, that he must be distant? Do you encourage yourself to run to God even when you don't understand what he's doing? Or do you give yourself permission to back away from him when you are confused by the seeming distance between what he's promised and what you're experiencing?....When others talk to you, is your internal conversation so loud that it's hard to concentrate on what they're saying?
Here's the question. How wholesome, faith-driven, and Christ-centered is the conversation that you have with you every day?
I find myself saying it all the time. When people hear it they laugh, but actually I'm being quite serious when I say it. Here it is. No one is more influential in your life than you are because no one talks to you more than you do. You're in an unending conversation with yourself. You're talking to yourself all the time, interpreting, organizing, and analyzing what's going on inside you and around you.
You may be talking to yourself about why you feel so tired. Or maybe you woke up this morning with a sense of dread and you're not sure why....Perhaps you're reliving a conversation that didn't go too well. Or maybe [you're] preparing yourself for a conversation that may be difficult by conjuring up as many renditions as you can imagine, so you can cover all the contingencies. Maybe your mind has traveled back to your distant past and, for reasons you don't understand, you're recalling events from your early childhood....
The point is that you are constantly involved in an internal conversation that greatly influences the things you decide, say, and do....
What do you regularly tell yourself about yourself, God, and your circumstances? Do your words to you encourage faith, hope, and courage? Or do they stimulate doubt, discouragement, and fear? Do you remind yourself that God is near, or do you reason within yourself, given your circumstances, that he must be distant? Do you encourage yourself to run to God even when you don't understand what he's doing? Or do you give yourself permission to back away from him when you are confused by the seeming distance between what he's promised and what you're experiencing?....When others talk to you, is your internal conversation so loud that it's hard to concentrate on what they're saying?
Here's the question. How wholesome, faith-driven, and Christ-centered is the conversation that you have with you every day?
Goodman news 4/10/2009
I thought I'd just share what I'm thinking about, I always like it when I know what is going on in the hearts of my community, friends and family. So I'll put myself out there! It helps me to have an outlet to hone my thoughts. I'd love any comments or discussion or added thoughts to what I've shared so please feel free. My last two notes have just been what I've come across in my morning devotions and what particularly stood out to me.
We also have some big changes on the horizon, Hutch has only another month or two of work in his current job so we're praying about more work and trusting in God's perfect timing because it's in our hearts to be engaged in ministry, focusing on college students and Muslims. Our hope is that we can do that full time eventually but for now, we are just taking steps of faith in that direction. God has been confirming it so far and speaking to us and we are really excited about what the future holds.
Hutch has a job interview this Tuesday in California and if he gets the job, it starts June 1st! I've already organized all the kids toys, sold our Suburban and bunk beds and given away many boxes in anticipation. (I love downsizing!) We don't have a solid job offer yet so we're waiting for that "little" piece of news but we're putting our house on the market and moving in the direction we feel God is leading us.
This is a picture from our house in Bremerton.
We also have some big changes on the horizon, Hutch has only another month or two of work in his current job so we're praying about more work and trusting in God's perfect timing because it's in our hearts to be engaged in ministry, focusing on college students and Muslims. Our hope is that we can do that full time eventually but for now, we are just taking steps of faith in that direction. God has been confirming it so far and speaking to us and we are really excited about what the future holds.
Hutch has a job interview this Tuesday in California and if he gets the job, it starts June 1st! I've already organized all the kids toys, sold our Suburban and bunk beds and given away many boxes in anticipation. (I love downsizing!) We don't have a solid job offer yet so we're waiting for that "little" piece of news but we're putting our house on the market and moving in the direction we feel God is leading us.
This is a picture from our house in Bremerton.
Dissipation 4/10/2009
dis⋅si⋅pa⋅tion
/ˌdɪsəˈpeɪʃən/ [dis-uh-pey-shuhn]
–noun
1. the act of dissipating.
2. the state of being dissipated; dispersion; disintegration.
3. a wasting by misuse: the dissipation of a fortune.
4. mental distraction; amusement; diversion.
5. dissolute way of living, esp. excessive drinking of liquor; intemperance.
6. Physics, Mechanics. a process in which energy is used or lost without accomplishing useful work, as friction causing loss of mechanical energy.
Be on guard, so that your hearts will not be weighted down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of life, and that day will not come on you suddenly like at trap; for it will come upon all those who dwell on the face of all the earth. But keep on the alert at all times, praying that you may have the strength to escape all these things that are about to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.
Luke 21:34
/ˌdɪsəˈpeɪʃən/ [dis-uh-pey-shuhn]
–noun
1. the act of dissipating.
2. the state of being dissipated; dispersion; disintegration.
3. a wasting by misuse: the dissipation of a fortune.
4. mental distraction; amusement; diversion.
5. dissolute way of living, esp. excessive drinking of liquor; intemperance.
6. Physics, Mechanics. a process in which energy is used or lost without accomplishing useful work, as friction causing loss of mechanical energy.
Be on guard, so that your hearts will not be weighted down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of life, and that day will not come on you suddenly like at trap; for it will come upon all those who dwell on the face of all the earth. But keep on the alert at all times, praying that you may have the strength to escape all these things that are about to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.
Luke 21:34
Love 4/9/2009
Love is patient and kind.
Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude.
It does not demand its own way.
It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged.
It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices in the truth.
Love never gives up,
never loses faith,
is always hopeful,
and endures through every circumstance.
When I say I love you and mean it with a Godly love, this is what I mean.
Today my prayer is, Lord, increase my faith! I am so tempted to get my eyes of my heavenly Father and on my circumstances. I was meditating yesterday how Jesus did all these great miracles and he taught with wisdom and authority but when the disciples prayed, "Lord, increase our faith!", it was after Jesus taught them that they were to forgive seventy times seven in one day. My heart is broken at the bitterness and unforgiveness that I've held on to for years that has held me in captivity and held those whom I haven't forgiven also in captivity. Jesus is walking with me through a journey of freedom and I owe Him. I know there are things in my near future that God has for me and for our family, I can feel a sense of expectation. And at the same time, I can see clearly, the attack of the enemy on my heart, bringing so many distractions and temptations. But I know in whom I trust and I know that HE will guard what I have trusted to Him and He has conquered sin and death and I daily walk in that victory, believing with my whole heart what I don't quite see clearly.
This morning, as I prepare for the day, and for the inevitable battle that is to come, I fix my eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of my faith and since I'm surrounded by a great a cloud of witnesses, I lay aside the weights and sins that mess me up and I run with patience the race that is before me.
I take my thoughts captive, I CAN do all things through His strength.
Today. Just for today.
Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude.
It does not demand its own way.
It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged.
It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices in the truth.
Love never gives up,
never loses faith,
is always hopeful,
and endures through every circumstance.
When I say I love you and mean it with a Godly love, this is what I mean.
Today my prayer is, Lord, increase my faith! I am so tempted to get my eyes of my heavenly Father and on my circumstances. I was meditating yesterday how Jesus did all these great miracles and he taught with wisdom and authority but when the disciples prayed, "Lord, increase our faith!", it was after Jesus taught them that they were to forgive seventy times seven in one day. My heart is broken at the bitterness and unforgiveness that I've held on to for years that has held me in captivity and held those whom I haven't forgiven also in captivity. Jesus is walking with me through a journey of freedom and I owe Him. I know there are things in my near future that God has for me and for our family, I can feel a sense of expectation. And at the same time, I can see clearly, the attack of the enemy on my heart, bringing so many distractions and temptations. But I know in whom I trust and I know that HE will guard what I have trusted to Him and He has conquered sin and death and I daily walk in that victory, believing with my whole heart what I don't quite see clearly.
This morning, as I prepare for the day, and for the inevitable battle that is to come, I fix my eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of my faith and since I'm surrounded by a great a cloud of witnesses, I lay aside the weights and sins that mess me up and I run with patience the race that is before me.
I take my thoughts captive, I CAN do all things through His strength.
Today. Just for today.
PDA 3/4/2009
Well, the YMCA monitors all the actions of it's members through video camera and thank goodness because many people were spared some indiscretions. My husband and I took our kids to the play area and then exercised on the bikes and rowing machines, then hopped in the hot tub to relax and chat. As we got in, Hutch tried to snuggle me and kiss me a little and I swatted him away of course! I'm a little concerned about what other people think. Turns out I should have been even more concerned. After sitting and chatting for about 10 minutes, during which Hutch was sitting on the side of the hot tub so I was touching his knee from time to time, we had a visit from Y management. She asked us to "watch the PDA, this is a family establishment". WHAT???? Hutch didn't even know what PDA was (public display of affection) We were a good foot away from each other. (I hate to get in trouble, especially if I did nothing wrong, my sense of justice is strong)
I was so embarrassed, and it was almost time to go, so I quickly got out avoiding the eyes of the other 6 people in the hot tub. As I walked through the door with my bare feet, I slipped on the tile and ended up flat on my back, smacking my head on the floor. I saw stars and started crying but I couldn't move I was so dizzy. As if I wasn't already embarrassed enough! I saw how they "saw" us and it is on a TV monitor about 2x2 inches and the angle would make it look suspicious, apparently. I walked out and asked them why, if it was such a big deal, there weren't any signs posted. A young upstart of a jerk told me I should know it was YMCA policy that there is no touching in public. A coworker of his, who was nice to me and calmed me down a little and told me she was sent to "break up" an 80 year old couple who were holding hands! It did make me feel better to know they are completely out of wack in their no touching policy but I had to go hide in a movie theater and watch a movie the rest of the night in order to pull myself together and find a little humor in the whole thing.
So that was my night at the YMCA. I'll be sure to wear a hat and dark glasses next time so no one recognizes me and I want you all to know, if you are at this "Christian" establishment with your spouse, save your PDA for later!
I was so embarrassed, and it was almost time to go, so I quickly got out avoiding the eyes of the other 6 people in the hot tub. As I walked through the door with my bare feet, I slipped on the tile and ended up flat on my back, smacking my head on the floor. I saw stars and started crying but I couldn't move I was so dizzy. As if I wasn't already embarrassed enough! I saw how they "saw" us and it is on a TV monitor about 2x2 inches and the angle would make it look suspicious, apparently. I walked out and asked them why, if it was such a big deal, there weren't any signs posted. A young upstart of a jerk told me I should know it was YMCA policy that there is no touching in public. A coworker of his, who was nice to me and calmed me down a little and told me she was sent to "break up" an 80 year old couple who were holding hands! It did make me feel better to know they are completely out of wack in their no touching policy but I had to go hide in a movie theater and watch a movie the rest of the night in order to pull myself together and find a little humor in the whole thing.
So that was my night at the YMCA. I'll be sure to wear a hat and dark glasses next time so no one recognizes me and I want you all to know, if you are at this "Christian" establishment with your spouse, save your PDA for later!
25 things about me 2/1/2009
1. I always wanted five children. Now I have them, I'm not quite sure what to do with them every day.
2. I knew I wanted to marry Hutch two days after I met him.
3. I met Hutch at Cutters in Seattle where I was a server and he was a busser.
4. I want to be a midwife.
5. I want to disciple my girls in midwifery and natural healing.
6. I really enjoy cooking, baking, and eating afterward and during and before. ( I don't enjoy being on a diet or being fat)
6a. "Nobody puts Baby in a corner" is a favorite movie line of mine.
7. I have dreams that God gives me that come true.
8. Hutch makes me laugh all the time.
9. I have huge emotional mood swings.
10. My mom is my second best friend.
11. I"ve been to China, France, and the Philippines. Philippines when I was 15 on a mission trip. France with my Grandma Grace for my graduation present. China with a guy I was dating in college.
12. I paid for my trip to China with my credit card and I'm sure I'm still paying if off, (financially and emotionally)
13. God came and found me in China. I was far away from Him in my heart and through a bizarre set of circumstances He sent a woman who taught English in China to meet me and minister to me.
14. I had all my children at home naturally.
15. I usually don't answer my phones, I am not good at multi-tasking anymore and there is a law in the universe that I wasn't aware of until I had children and that's the Phone Law which says any phone call answered with be met with fighting and loud noises simultaneously coinciding with "Hello".
16. I feel inadequate most of the time. I had someone prophesy over me that I was insecure and I have realized over the years how true that is. I have learned to rely on God's truth about me because I can't rely on my feelings.
17. My favorite food is strawberries. Organic sweet plain strawberries, strawberries dipped in chocolate, served with whipped cream and angel food cake, dipped in sour cream and brown sugar, strawberry pie, strawberry shortcake, strawberry tart, strawberry rhubarb pie.
18. I am called to teach women to operate in faith and not fear. I feel like there is a spiritual block in women's minds that stops them from living in freedom, usually after they have children. I have to figure that out in my own heart first but once I do, there are women waiting for me to give that to them.
19. One of my favorite things to do is to turn on music and dance with my children.
20. The best week in my life was the one I spent with Hutch in Mexico last October celebrating our ten year anniversary. Seriously, the best week of my life.
21. I love heart to heart conversations, having a talk with a friend is my idea of the most fun thing I could do. Which is why I often stay up late talking with Hutch.
22. I think Hutch is seriously the smartest, funniest, givingest, servingest, Godly man and I'm super lucky to have married him. He always says he's lucky but he has no idea that he's the catch.
23. I have always wanted to get a tattoo.
24. I have never wanted to be famous and I'm not impressed by famous people.
25. I am however really influenced by those closest to me which is why I'm even doing this note. My kids have been waiting for lunch for an hour now while I type this! I would really like to take hours to talk with each one of you that read this and find out what's really on your heart. I'm thinking that in Heaven, God will give me unlimited time to I can really get to know the depths of my friends. I love love love the people God has put in my life over the years, I am not the same because of YOU!
26. I hate confrontation and making people mad and I often feel like I'm in trouble. I just had to add 26 because I'm a rebel and there's no way I can sum myself up in 25 or 26 or 100 bullet points!
2. I knew I wanted to marry Hutch two days after I met him.
3. I met Hutch at Cutters in Seattle where I was a server and he was a busser.
4. I want to be a midwife.
5. I want to disciple my girls in midwifery and natural healing.
6. I really enjoy cooking, baking, and eating afterward and during and before. ( I don't enjoy being on a diet or being fat)
6a. "Nobody puts Baby in a corner" is a favorite movie line of mine.
7. I have dreams that God gives me that come true.
8. Hutch makes me laugh all the time.
9. I have huge emotional mood swings.
10. My mom is my second best friend.
11. I"ve been to China, France, and the Philippines. Philippines when I was 15 on a mission trip. France with my Grandma Grace for my graduation present. China with a guy I was dating in college.
12. I paid for my trip to China with my credit card and I'm sure I'm still paying if off, (financially and emotionally)
13. God came and found me in China. I was far away from Him in my heart and through a bizarre set of circumstances He sent a woman who taught English in China to meet me and minister to me.
14. I had all my children at home naturally.
15. I usually don't answer my phones, I am not good at multi-tasking anymore and there is a law in the universe that I wasn't aware of until I had children and that's the Phone Law which says any phone call answered with be met with fighting and loud noises simultaneously coinciding with "Hello".
16. I feel inadequate most of the time. I had someone prophesy over me that I was insecure and I have realized over the years how true that is. I have learned to rely on God's truth about me because I can't rely on my feelings.
17. My favorite food is strawberries. Organic sweet plain strawberries, strawberries dipped in chocolate, served with whipped cream and angel food cake, dipped in sour cream and brown sugar, strawberry pie, strawberry shortcake, strawberry tart, strawberry rhubarb pie.
18. I am called to teach women to operate in faith and not fear. I feel like there is a spiritual block in women's minds that stops them from living in freedom, usually after they have children. I have to figure that out in my own heart first but once I do, there are women waiting for me to give that to them.
19. One of my favorite things to do is to turn on music and dance with my children.
20. The best week in my life was the one I spent with Hutch in Mexico last October celebrating our ten year anniversary. Seriously, the best week of my life.
21. I love heart to heart conversations, having a talk with a friend is my idea of the most fun thing I could do. Which is why I often stay up late talking with Hutch.
22. I think Hutch is seriously the smartest, funniest, givingest, servingest, Godly man and I'm super lucky to have married him. He always says he's lucky but he has no idea that he's the catch.
23. I have always wanted to get a tattoo.
24. I have never wanted to be famous and I'm not impressed by famous people.
25. I am however really influenced by those closest to me which is why I'm even doing this note. My kids have been waiting for lunch for an hour now while I type this! I would really like to take hours to talk with each one of you that read this and find out what's really on your heart. I'm thinking that in Heaven, God will give me unlimited time to I can really get to know the depths of my friends. I love love love the people God has put in my life over the years, I am not the same because of YOU!
26. I hate confrontation and making people mad and I often feel like I'm in trouble. I just had to add 26 because I'm a rebel and there's no way I can sum myself up in 25 or 26 or 100 bullet points!
Monday, April 25, 2011
ballet and soccer 10/6/2008
Today is Saturday. We take the girls to ballet today and it's the highlight of mine and Hutch's week. Hannah, Chloe, and Juliet all put on pink tights, pink leotards, and ballet shoes and put their hair in buns. Chloe and Juliet still have their baby pudge so their little tummies and bottoms stick out of their leotards and it is the cutest thing I"ve seen ever in my whole life ever. ever. Hannah is so elegant and she is really developing the skills, it's beautiful to watch.
I watch them run around and wave their arms and I want to explode with all the emotions I feel. I love them so much and it's like my own heart is running around outside my body. Or more literally, dancing around.
After ballet lessons, we head over to Jack's soccer game where many crazy parents are yelling at their 6 and 7 year old children to score a goal or defend their goal. Last week Jack was goalie for a while. He was standing too far inside the goal which prompted much shouting. After he came out the proper distance, he blocked a kick, which was the highlight for his dad and grandparents who were on hand for his first game. They all cheered so loudly, Jack stopped and looked over with a smile and a wave and...you guessed it...the other team scored. AHHH!!! Jack quickly looked over to his dad to see if it was ok and Hutch gave him a huge shout and a reassuring smile and the game was back on. Their team lost by two points 6-8 but Jack told me this morning that he left the field with a little smile on his face because he was "happy for the other team".
I watch them run around and wave their arms and I want to explode with all the emotions I feel. I love them so much and it's like my own heart is running around outside my body. Or more literally, dancing around.
After ballet lessons, we head over to Jack's soccer game where many crazy parents are yelling at their 6 and 7 year old children to score a goal or defend their goal. Last week Jack was goalie for a while. He was standing too far inside the goal which prompted much shouting. After he came out the proper distance, he blocked a kick, which was the highlight for his dad and grandparents who were on hand for his first game. They all cheered so loudly, Jack stopped and looked over with a smile and a wave and...you guessed it...the other team scored. AHHH!!! Jack quickly looked over to his dad to see if it was ok and Hutch gave him a huge shout and a reassuring smile and the game was back on. Their team lost by two points 6-8 but Jack told me this morning that he left the field with a little smile on his face because he was "happy for the other team".
economic crisis solution...someone else's thoughts 10/5/2008
I don't know who this guy is or where this idea came from but to my uneducated mind, it sounds great! Will someone with some knowledge of the stock market please tell me why this won't work? Or will it???
This is his idea:
I'm in favor of giving $85,000,000,000 to America in a We Deserve It Dividend.
To make the math simple, let's assume there are 200,000,000
bonafide U.S. Citizens 18+.
Our population is about 301,000,000 +/- counting every man, woman
and child. So 200,000,000 might be a fair stab at adults 18 and up..
So divide 200 million adults 18+ into $85 billon that equals $425,000.00.
My plan is to give $425,000 to every person 18+ as a
We Deserve It Dividend.
Of course, it would NOT be tax free.
So let's assume a tax rate of 30%.
Every individual 18+ has to pay $127,500.00 in taxes.
That sends $25,500,000,000 right back to Uncle Sam.
But it means that every adult 18+ has $297,500.00 in their pocket.
A husband and wife has $595,000.00.
What would you do with $297,500.00 to $595,000.00 in your family?
Pay off your mortgage - housing crisis solved.
Repay college loans - what a great boost to new grads
Put away money for college - it'll be there
Save in a bank - create money to loan to entrepreneurs.
Buy a new car - create jobs
Invest in the market - capital drives growth
Pay for your parent's medical insurance - health care improves
Enable Deadbeat Dads to come clean - or else
Remember this is for every adult U S Citizen 18+ including the folks
who lost their jobs at Lehman Brothers and every other company
that is cutting back. And of course, for those serving in our Armed Forces.
If we're going to re-distribute wealth let's really do it...instead of
trickling out a puny $1000.00 ( 'vote buy' ) economic incentive that is being proposed by one of our candidates for President.
If we're going to do an $85 billion bailout, let's bail out every adult U S
Citizen 18+!
As for AIG - liquidate it. Sell off its parts.
Let American General go back to being American General.
Sell off the real estate.
Let the private sector bargain hunters cut it up and clean it up.
Here's my rationale. We deserve it and AIG doesn't. Sure it's a crazy idea that can 'never work.' But can you imagine the Coast-To-Coast Block Party!
How do you spell Economic Boom?
I trust my fellow adult Americans to know how to use the $85 Billion
We Deserve It Dividend more than I do the geniuses at AIG or in Washington
DC.
And remember, The Birk plan only really costs $59.5 Billion because $25.5
Billion is returned instantly in taxes to Uncle Sam.
This is his idea:
I'm in favor of giving $85,000,000,000 to America in a We Deserve It Dividend.
To make the math simple, let's assume there are 200,000,000
bonafide U.S. Citizens 18+.
Our population is about 301,000,000 +/- counting every man, woman
and child. So 200,000,000 might be a fair stab at adults 18 and up..
So divide 200 million adults 18+ into $85 billon that equals $425,000.00.
My plan is to give $425,000 to every person 18+ as a
We Deserve It Dividend.
Of course, it would NOT be tax free.
So let's assume a tax rate of 30%.
Every individual 18+ has to pay $127,500.00 in taxes.
That sends $25,500,000,000 right back to Uncle Sam.
But it means that every adult 18+ has $297,500.00 in their pocket.
A husband and wife has $595,000.00.
What would you do with $297,500.00 to $595,000.00 in your family?
Pay off your mortgage - housing crisis solved.
Repay college loans - what a great boost to new grads
Put away money for college - it'll be there
Save in a bank - create money to loan to entrepreneurs.
Buy a new car - create jobs
Invest in the market - capital drives growth
Pay for your parent's medical insurance - health care improves
Enable Deadbeat Dads to come clean - or else
Remember this is for every adult U S Citizen 18+ including the folks
who lost their jobs at Lehman Brothers and every other company
that is cutting back. And of course, for those serving in our Armed Forces.
If we're going to re-distribute wealth let's really do it...instead of
trickling out a puny $1000.00 ( 'vote buy' ) economic incentive that is being proposed by one of our candidates for President.
If we're going to do an $85 billion bailout, let's bail out every adult U S
Citizen 18+!
As for AIG - liquidate it. Sell off its parts.
Let American General go back to being American General.
Sell off the real estate.
Let the private sector bargain hunters cut it up and clean it up.
Here's my rationale. We deserve it and AIG doesn't. Sure it's a crazy idea that can 'never work.' But can you imagine the Coast-To-Coast Block Party!
How do you spell Economic Boom?
I trust my fellow adult Americans to know how to use the $85 Billion
We Deserve It Dividend more than I do the geniuses at AIG or in Washington
DC.
And remember, The Birk plan only really costs $59.5 Billion because $25.5
Billion is returned instantly in taxes to Uncle Sam.
bitterness 2/18/2008
When I have spent my years with an ideal picture in mind and have not attained it, I am tempted to be bitter. I am grappling with the truth that it's not important what I produce, it's important that I try. If I never give up, never give in to hopelessness, God has power to work in my weakness. I am tempted right now to give in. Hutch is encouraging me and many others would if they had the chance. I want to believe, I really do. Everything in my vision is telling me one thing and the truth that I must believe is not apparent to me. This is when my faith becomes the evidence of things not seen. I just don't see it. I don't see the beautiful days filled with stories and cookies and playing. I just feel struggle. Because I am opposed by the enemy of my soul. I have forgotten that fact. I will fight to remember that my life's work is my family. My goal is to decrease so that He might increase. I am brought to tears daily as I am confronted with my own weakness and failings and I realize that truly everything good in me is from Him, not me. Anything I accomplish is in His strength. He'll keep me here until I really learn it and I'm just now starting to get a glimpse. Strength perfected in weakness. Foolish things of the world confounding the wise. His ways and thoughts, not mine. Lose your life to find it. What a crazy world I live in.
daily life 10/18/2007
I have friends who have blogs and they post pictures and daily happenings and I just love to read them. It's nice because there are many things that we don't talk about if we don't see each other that much so the little details of life get overlooked. I'm going to try to capture them here for all who are interested.
Yesterday Juliet decided to entertain herself with lotion while on the potty, which she will only sit on if I feed her a constant stream of chocolate chips. I think it's time to revisit some "to train up a child" principles. This way isn't accomplishing much...
There is a video of her antics on the video page.
Nana came for a visit too and the kids all thought it was a hoot to try on her wig. They had her laughing! There are some pics of that too. My mom has been handling her chemo with such grace and beauty and regardless of what she thinks, she is so beautiful with no hair. I think that when you love someone and see them in a difficult situation and they are shining, they couldn't be more beautiful, no matter what they did to themself. The power of looking at life with eyes of love.
Hutch has been working alot of nights and we both have agreed to this season of imbalance in order to accomplish the things God has put in our hearts. We are praying that we can have the discipline and self control to make it through this and that God will bless our efforts and release Hutch from full time work and into full time ministry. In the meantime, we are praying for small opportunities to be faithful with what He's given us.
Yesterday Juliet decided to entertain herself with lotion while on the potty, which she will only sit on if I feed her a constant stream of chocolate chips. I think it's time to revisit some "to train up a child" principles. This way isn't accomplishing much...
There is a video of her antics on the video page.
Nana came for a visit too and the kids all thought it was a hoot to try on her wig. They had her laughing! There are some pics of that too. My mom has been handling her chemo with such grace and beauty and regardless of what she thinks, she is so beautiful with no hair. I think that when you love someone and see them in a difficult situation and they are shining, they couldn't be more beautiful, no matter what they did to themself. The power of looking at life with eyes of love.
Hutch has been working alot of nights and we both have agreed to this season of imbalance in order to accomplish the things God has put in our hearts. We are praying that we can have the discipline and self control to make it through this and that God will bless our efforts and release Hutch from full time work and into full time ministry. In the meantime, we are praying for small opportunities to be faithful with what He's given us.
310 views 10/15/2007
Wow. I was just getting ready to post something really profound when I realized that my blog has been viewed 310 times. Are there even half that many people who want to read what I write? Or do I have one obsessed fan? Either way, I think that's pretty cool. I do now feel a little pressure...
I am flying high on perspective right now. I had the amazing revelation a few days ago that no one feels sorry for me. Either they're too busy feeling sorry for themselves or I don't have a life that elicits pity. Quite the contrary, my life is to be envied. And to whom much is given, much is required. I'm so sorry about the time I've spent feeling sorry for myself, for the huge tasks in front of me that never seem to end. I've been looking at them with the wrong perspective. I have a husband that adores me and gives to me unceasingly. I have children that delight me every day, five of them. I have a safe, warm, beautiful house, my health, the health of my children, a huge circle of friends and family that really do care about me and that I can show love to and want the best for. I have people who I can call and they will watch all five of my children while I get to go out with my husband. Many people dream of a life like mine and I get to live it.
I realized that I have always thought that I would shine and really begin to live the life that I want to live when there is a crisis. I see others going through health issues or financial issues and I have their solution all worked out. Well I am going to start shining and living the life I want to live right now because I really have no excuses. None. Oh, and if you want to know, I'm on a I'm-not-going-to-be-fat-at-Christmas campaign. I have at least 10 weeks and I am getting up every morning and working out and I'm not eating any sugar except for one cheat day a week. That's all part of the new me, living the life that I want to live and not making any excuses. I made it through the first week of my campaign and I've had energy, peace, and joy. Why? Because I was doing what I know is right and healthy for me and I am submitting to the discipline of being a disciple of Christ. That means body, soul, and spirit.
I feel like my struggles are the same ones that I've faced for the past 15 years. I guess when I get through those I'll get some new ones.
Tribulation brings about perseverance and perseverance, proven character, and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us. Rom 5:3-5
I am flying high on perspective right now. I had the amazing revelation a few days ago that no one feels sorry for me. Either they're too busy feeling sorry for themselves or I don't have a life that elicits pity. Quite the contrary, my life is to be envied. And to whom much is given, much is required. I'm so sorry about the time I've spent feeling sorry for myself, for the huge tasks in front of me that never seem to end. I've been looking at them with the wrong perspective. I have a husband that adores me and gives to me unceasingly. I have children that delight me every day, five of them. I have a safe, warm, beautiful house, my health, the health of my children, a huge circle of friends and family that really do care about me and that I can show love to and want the best for. I have people who I can call and they will watch all five of my children while I get to go out with my husband. Many people dream of a life like mine and I get to live it.
I realized that I have always thought that I would shine and really begin to live the life that I want to live when there is a crisis. I see others going through health issues or financial issues and I have their solution all worked out. Well I am going to start shining and living the life I want to live right now because I really have no excuses. None. Oh, and if you want to know, I'm on a I'm-not-going-to-be-fat-at-Christmas campaign. I have at least 10 weeks and I am getting up every morning and working out and I'm not eating any sugar except for one cheat day a week. That's all part of the new me, living the life that I want to live and not making any excuses. I made it through the first week of my campaign and I've had energy, peace, and joy. Why? Because I was doing what I know is right and healthy for me and I am submitting to the discipline of being a disciple of Christ. That means body, soul, and spirit.
I feel like my struggles are the same ones that I've faced for the past 15 years. I guess when I get through those I'll get some new ones.
Tribulation brings about perseverance and perseverance, proven character, and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us. Rom 5:3-5
stop complaining 6/5/2007
I think that everyone has a hard life. Mine is not hard compared to some and harder than others. So yesterday I decided to stop complaining. If I have a hard day I'm going to look for something to be thankful for. I'm going to pray every day for the grace to keep a soft heart toward my husband and children. I am going to stop expecting life to be easy or get easy. It will never happen. What will happen is peace and joy as I decide to stop expecting things to be perfect and just accept them as God has given them to me. Besides, who wants to be around someone who complains. YUK. I sure don't.
Some days I'm tired. Some days my kids fight and act like little sinners. What do I expect them to act like? Perfect? Many days I wonder at my expectations for my children that I would never put on myself.
Lord, protect and shield the hearts of my children. Help me to teach them that they need your grace just like I do. Help me to remember that I have been forgiven much and help me to extend that to them. She who has been forgiven much, loves much. Help me Lord to remember how much you have forgiven me for and from where you brought me. Thank you that your mercies are new every morning. What a wonderful promise. I need them every day, every morning in a new way. What a great God you are!
Some days I'm tired. Some days my kids fight and act like little sinners. What do I expect them to act like? Perfect? Many days I wonder at my expectations for my children that I would never put on myself.
Lord, protect and shield the hearts of my children. Help me to teach them that they need your grace just like I do. Help me to remember that I have been forgiven much and help me to extend that to them. She who has been forgiven much, loves much. Help me Lord to remember how much you have forgiven me for and from where you brought me. Thank you that your mercies are new every morning. What a wonderful promise. I need them every day, every morning in a new way. What a great God you are!
birthday and benjamin 5/7/2007
After a false alarm friday, april 27, Benjamin decided to come May 3. I laid down to take a nap and couldn't sleep for the whole time. By 1 pm I called the midwife and couldn't talk between contractions. Our little boy was born at 6:34pm. We had a tense few minutes after he was born because he took a little while to breathe but thanks to God (and a slap on the foot from the midwife!), he perked up and I was SO relieved that he was here and the waiting was over.
Yesterday was my birthday and it was wonderful to just have my family around me and be so blessed by our new gift from God. He's perfect and keeping us up all night but I know it will soon be a blur! Thanks to all you who prayed for us and sent encouragement my way, it really helped.
Yesterday was my birthday and it was wonderful to just have my family around me and be so blessed by our new gift from God. He's perfect and keeping us up all night but I know it will soon be a blur! Thanks to all you who prayed for us and sent encouragement my way, it really helped.
Being and Doing 1/25/2007
Well I am an idea person. I love books on ideas about how to write, organize, eat, cook, exercise, rear children, be thoughtful, and any other number of ideas. Hutch and I have started a few businesses including selling sno-cones, alarm systems and Melaleuca. I would love to open a restaurant or start a nutrition business. What I lack is the skills beyond the first 2 brainstorming sessions. I read a book on home organization and how to keep your house clean by organizing your jobs on 3x5 cards for each day, week, and month. I bought the cards, holders, dividers and magic markers and spent a few hours writing down my chores and dividing them into frequency. Just yesterday I found that file and laughed to myself that they were are neatly sitting there.
I am praying that the scripture where Paul says it is God at work in me both to will and to do His good purpose will come to pass in me. I have the will, but the doing is where I struggle. I sit on the couch and think about teaching my children and then it's time to cook dinner and I spend the next hour telling them to get out of my way while I cook. How ridiculous!! I was so encouraged by an email I received from a mentor type in my life. She included some great scriptures about this very subject and her thoughts on them. Here they are:
JUST DO IT!
1 Chronicles 28:10, 20, "Solomon my son. Take heed now; for the Lord hath chosen thee to build a house for the sanctuary: be strong, and do it... Be strong and of good courage, and do it: fear not, nor be dismayed: for the Lord God, even my God, will be with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee, until thou hast finished all the work."
It was not enough for David to encourage Solomon to build a house for the Lord, but he also inspired him to do it! We can get great ideas and dreams of what we want to do, but it is another thing to do them. We must not only be hearers of the Word, but doers!There is more yet. David exhorted Solomon, not only to do it, but to finish it! Not only do we have to get stuck in and do what we have to do, but also finish the task. But there is even more yet! David said, "I have prepared with all my might for the house of my God." It is not enough to do the job. It is not enough to finish it. We have to do it with all our might!
Ecclesiastes 9:10 says, "Whatsoever your hand finds to do, do it with thy might."
And Colossians 3:23 says, "Whatsoever you do, do it heartily."
These are three important principles that we need to implement into our daily lives in the home. There are many tasks on our "to do" list. You want to do them, you plan to do them, but you just have to do them. That's all there is to it. You have to get up off your seat and start tackling the job. I have made this a habit in my life-not to look at something and think about doing it, but to get up and do it! It's the only way things get done! Many times I don't feel like doing it, but I make myself get up and do it.We need to teach these principles to our children too. They are God-like principles. God lives by this principle.
He states, "I have purposed it, I will also do it." (Isaiah 46:11)
Even Jesus Himself put this principle into action. He exclaims in Psalm 40:7-8, "Lo, I come: in the volume of the book it is written of me, I delight to do thy will, O my God; yea, thy law is within my heart."
Jesus didn't come to study God's will or to meditate upon it, but to do it! None of us will ever understand how hard it must have been for Him to fulfill the plan of the ages to come and suffer and die for our sin. He asked God to take the cup from him, but He faced it and did it.
Exodus 19:8 says, "All that the Lord has spoken we will do."
Is this our response?
Genesis 31:16, "Whatsoever God has said unto thee, do."
Proverbs 3:27, "Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it."
James 4:17, "To him that knows to do good, and does it not, to him it is sin."
Are there necessary things waiting to do in your life? Is there some task that you have been putting off? Don't think about it any longer. Just do it!
I am praying that the scripture where Paul says it is God at work in me both to will and to do His good purpose will come to pass in me. I have the will, but the doing is where I struggle. I sit on the couch and think about teaching my children and then it's time to cook dinner and I spend the next hour telling them to get out of my way while I cook. How ridiculous!! I was so encouraged by an email I received from a mentor type in my life. She included some great scriptures about this very subject and her thoughts on them. Here they are:
JUST DO IT!
1 Chronicles 28:10, 20, "Solomon my son. Take heed now; for the Lord hath chosen thee to build a house for the sanctuary: be strong, and do it... Be strong and of good courage, and do it: fear not, nor be dismayed: for the Lord God, even my God, will be with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee, until thou hast finished all the work."
It was not enough for David to encourage Solomon to build a house for the Lord, but he also inspired him to do it! We can get great ideas and dreams of what we want to do, but it is another thing to do them. We must not only be hearers of the Word, but doers!There is more yet. David exhorted Solomon, not only to do it, but to finish it! Not only do we have to get stuck in and do what we have to do, but also finish the task. But there is even more yet! David said, "I have prepared with all my might for the house of my God." It is not enough to do the job. It is not enough to finish it. We have to do it with all our might!
Ecclesiastes 9:10 says, "Whatsoever your hand finds to do, do it with thy might."
And Colossians 3:23 says, "Whatsoever you do, do it heartily."
These are three important principles that we need to implement into our daily lives in the home. There are many tasks on our "to do" list. You want to do them, you plan to do them, but you just have to do them. That's all there is to it. You have to get up off your seat and start tackling the job. I have made this a habit in my life-not to look at something and think about doing it, but to get up and do it! It's the only way things get done! Many times I don't feel like doing it, but I make myself get up and do it.We need to teach these principles to our children too. They are God-like principles. God lives by this principle.
He states, "I have purposed it, I will also do it." (Isaiah 46:11)
Even Jesus Himself put this principle into action. He exclaims in Psalm 40:7-8, "Lo, I come: in the volume of the book it is written of me, I delight to do thy will, O my God; yea, thy law is within my heart."
Jesus didn't come to study God's will or to meditate upon it, but to do it! None of us will ever understand how hard it must have been for Him to fulfill the plan of the ages to come and suffer and die for our sin. He asked God to take the cup from him, but He faced it and did it.
Exodus 19:8 says, "All that the Lord has spoken we will do."
Is this our response?
Genesis 31:16, "Whatsoever God has said unto thee, do."
Proverbs 3:27, "Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it."
James 4:17, "To him that knows to do good, and does it not, to him it is sin."
Are there necessary things waiting to do in your life? Is there some task that you have been putting off? Don't think about it any longer. Just do it!
On Writing Clearly by C S Lewis 1/17/2007
I would love to be a writer, like Carinna or Anthon but alas I am not. I recognize my other strengths and applaud those who can articulate themselves with words so as to make me laugh and especially think. My 2nd dad sent me this from Clive Staples Lewis and I loved it! I hope you do too, if you read this...
Writing
C.S. Lewis, Letters to Children, June 1956
1. Always try to use the language so as to make quite clear what you mean and make sure your sentence could not mean anything else.
2. Always prefer the plain direct word to the long, vague one. Do not implement promises, but keep them.
3. Never use abstract nouns when concrete ones will do. If you mean "More people died" do not say "Mortality rose."
4. In writing. Do not use adjectives which merely tell us how you want to feel about the thing you are describing. I mean, instead of telling us a thing was "terrible," describe it so that we will be terrified. Do not say it was "delightful"; make us say "delightful" when we have read the description. You see, all those words (horrifying, wonderful, hideous, exquisite) are only like saying to your readers "Please will you do my job for me."
5. Do not use words too big for the subject. Do not say "infinitely" when you mean "very"; otherwise you will have no word left when you want to talk about something really infinite.
Writing
C.S. Lewis, Letters to Children, June 1956
1. Always try to use the language so as to make quite clear what you mean and make sure your sentence could not mean anything else.
2. Always prefer the plain direct word to the long, vague one. Do not implement promises, but keep them.
3. Never use abstract nouns when concrete ones will do. If you mean "More people died" do not say "Mortality rose."
4. In writing. Do not use adjectives which merely tell us how you want to feel about the thing you are describing. I mean, instead of telling us a thing was "terrible," describe it so that we will be terrified. Do not say it was "delightful"; make us say "delightful" when we have read the description. You see, all those words (horrifying, wonderful, hideous, exquisite) are only like saying to your readers "Please will you do my job for me."
5. Do not use words too big for the subject. Do not say "infinitely" when you mean "very"; otherwise you will have no word left when you want to talk about something really infinite.
Friends 5/15/2006
In heaven there will be unlimited time to catch up with friends, what a great thing! I am so thankful for my friends, old and new. It's so interesting to see who becomes your close friends and who you don't stay close to. I think God knows who will shape us and sharpen us and He directs our paths. It is with a little sadness that I realize you can't keep all the friends that you've always had and will have, life has to change. I'm practicing writing and someday I'll be as good as Carinna. Her cat story is in my annals of best-stories-by-a-friend ever! If you don't know it, it's a must read!
cleaning 5/13/2006
I should be cleaning. Why does a person never want to clean but always desires to have things clean? Our lower nature does not want to do any hard work and when we spank that thing and make ourselves do what we know we ought to do, we are so pleased and satisfied with the result. I am blogging instead of cleaning and at the end of this blog I will not feel better. I will only feel better when I have cleaned and done what I set out to do. Here I go...
Birthday thoughts May 8, 2006
Life is about working hard. Working for your family and friends. Serving others and being grateful when you get a break, not mad because you deserve one and haven't gotton one yet. I have realized that I've viewed life as some work and some play and I was enjoying the play and hating the work. Well, if I'm honest, my life is 95% work and 5% play so I'm going to start enjoying my work and thanking God for it. He said that HIS yoke was easy and HIS burden was light but He didn't say don't have a yoke! I'll still have a burden, I just need to make sure it's HIS and that way it'll be easy to carry.
I am overwhelmed this weekend by the people that love and care about me. More than any present, my family and friends are a gift to me and when I take the time to think about them, tears well up in my eyes. I don't deserve this life but somehow I got it and I'm going to squeeze every drop from it that God gives me
I am overwhelmed this weekend by the people that love and care about me. More than any present, my family and friends are a gift to me and when I take the time to think about them, tears well up in my eyes. I don't deserve this life but somehow I got it and I'm going to squeeze every drop from it that God gives me
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