On my list of blogs that I read is Beth Moore... yep, Beth Moore has a blog. On her latest blog she has posted a challenge. (If that link doesn't work then look for her blog here on mine (list bottom right of the page)... and find the blog that is titled, "Anyone Game?"
Basically the challenge is: Memorize 2 scriptures a month. On the first and the 15th of each month... you pick a scripture that is calling to you - and you meditate on that scripture for the next 15 days... yes, you choose the scripture (You'll most easily memorize what means most to you.) - I will post a blog and you type the scripture you are led to memorize in the comments...
This looks interesting. I have been saying for a really long time that I need to buckle down and get serious about this ... I *say* I want a relationship with Jesus but really how much effort am I willing to put into that relationship??? Not much lately.... :-(
So, I am calling you to join me... one because it would be more fun with others... and two because I need the help of my sisters to keep me accountable.... (never thought I would say that one)...
From her blog:
The whole purpose of the process is to take our minds captive to the knowledge of Christ and demolish strongholds or nip potential ones in the proverbial bud. As long as those Scriptures are rolling around in your head, your mind is being held captive to Christ-centered thoughts and led away from destructive or carnal thoughts whether or not you're getting the words in the exact right order. At least three huge things happen when we memorize: our brains are bathed. Our brains are sharpened. Our ammunition is loaded.
There are more tips on her blog about how to memorize... and about the challenge...
SO - who's with me???
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Dusting is dangerous...
My sister is coming to visit for Christmas!!! She will be here tomorrow morning!! I am so excited to be able to spend Christmas with her...
Until then I wasn't really in the Christmas mood and barely got the tree put up. I usually have all my regular stuff down and the living room filled with snowmen of all sorts... This year I just didn't feel like doing it. But when I heard of her coming - my mood changed and so out came the snowmen!!
Well, in the snowmen are candles and votive holders... As I was placing them around in strategic places - I saw that some of my regular votive holders are way overdue on dusting. In fact they were so bad they had to be washed. So, I took them to the sink and was washing one when it broke - and sliced into my finger. I finished washing it and saw that it could be repaired. I got out the superglue, pieced the broken glass back into place and proceeded to glue my fingers to the glass. After pulling my fingers apart and ripping off the skin - I put away the votive holders and decided to ignore any other dust bunnies that might (are) lurking in the living room.
I knew there was a reason I didn't dust....
Until then I wasn't really in the Christmas mood and barely got the tree put up. I usually have all my regular stuff down and the living room filled with snowmen of all sorts... This year I just didn't feel like doing it. But when I heard of her coming - my mood changed and so out came the snowmen!!
Well, in the snowmen are candles and votive holders... As I was placing them around in strategic places - I saw that some of my regular votive holders are way overdue on dusting. In fact they were so bad they had to be washed. So, I took them to the sink and was washing one when it broke - and sliced into my finger. I finished washing it and saw that it could be repaired. I got out the superglue, pieced the broken glass back into place and proceeded to glue my fingers to the glass. After pulling my fingers apart and ripping off the skin - I put away the votive holders and decided to ignore any other dust bunnies that might (are) lurking in the living room.
I knew there was a reason I didn't dust....
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Finally....
Well, the tree is finally up... and it has colored lights and a star on top....although I think we need a new topper... 
Like I said in the survey - it's a hodge podge of misc ornaments from over the years... Here's a sampling....
From the:
Like I said in the survey - it's a hodge podge of misc ornaments from over the years... Here's a sampling....
From the:
Friday, December 12, 2008
Guess it's my turn....
I was tagged by several friends on their blogs - with 25 Christmas Questions...
1) Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate? I do like Egg Nog... but nothing beats a really good hot chocolate... like the one at the Parking Lot Party the other night - it was YUMMY!!!
2) Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree? Usually Santa bring in the BIG gift so it is either in a very large bag or maybe a sheet thrown over...
3) Colored lights or white? Ummm... I forget what I have on my tree... I think it's colored????
4) Do you hang mistletoe? nope
5) When do you get out your decorations? whenever I can get someone to muddle through the mess in the garage to get them out... (which is tomorrow morning - thanks to Danny!)... and whenever it fits into my schedule - which there hasn't been much room lately...
6) Favorite holiday dish, excluding dessert? Well, we don't do a "traditional" (yes, I did use quotation marks)dinner at Christmas time... but at Thanksgiving it's my mom's stuffing!!! white bread, apples, sausage.... yummy....
7) Favorite holiday memory as a child? hmmmm... can't seem to come up with one...not a particular one anyway ... but I always loved when we all went to my Grandmother's house for holidays.... I loved it there...
8) When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? what do you mean "the truth?"... what are you trying to say?
9) Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? yep - generally we open all our gifts on Christmas Eve (except for Santa) because that is the only day we have all 3 boys... Cole and Christopher are usually gone by Christmas morning....
10) How do you decorate your trees? Everyone in the house has ornaments that were put into their stocking when we took the tree down the previous year ... they are then responsible for hanging those ornaments on the tree this year... there is really no theme to the tree - if you can believe it about me - very little "matches".... just a hodgepodge of stuff I have collected over the years...
11) Snow, love it or hate it? Have never lived in the snow - but loved it when I visited it!
12) Can you ice skate? I have only tried once - when I took Christopher to Colorado on vacation... we did manage to make it around the rink a few times...
13) Do you remember your favorite gift? hmmm... another one I have to think about... John works really hard on gifts for me at Christmas and he really outdid himself last year.... I am still amazed at my Fossil purse and how he picked out just the right one!!!... also my horse blanket from several years ago that he went to 5 stores to find... EDIT: just read Hattie's blog and her favorite gift is her cello - which reminds me of the violin that John bought me - no, I don't play but desperately want to.... and then that reminded me of the year he got the flag from my dad's funeral put in a glass display box ... I really do have an awesome husband...
14) What is the most important thing about the holidays for you? Jesus and my boys
15) Favorite Holiday dessert? fudge
16) Favorite Christmas tradition? how we open the gifts... I don't put name tags on the gifts... everyone has their own wrapping paper... I put a swatch of that wrapping paper down in the toe of their stocking... so we then draw names and take a turn at opening the stockings - it's at that point the boys begin to realize which gifts are theirs under the tree... then we draw names again to see who opens a gift... putting all the names back in after one gift... we continue until all the gifts are open... this slows down the whole process and makes it all about watching each other and not a mad dash to just tear into your own stuff...
17) What tops your tree? wow - I am losing it - I don't remember that either...
18) What's better giving or receiving? should I be honest or do you want the good Christian answer?
19) Favorite Christmas song? Possibly O Holy Night...
20) Candy Canes, yummy or yucky? they can be good.
21) What do you want for Christmas? Disneyland passes... but since John has lost weekends (32 hours of OT on each paycheck) ... not sure if that is going to be possible...
22) Do you attend an annual Christmas Party? church banquet where we watch the annual slide show!!! - (which we are still working on - so if you have a great picture that just MUST get in there - send it to us!!)
23) Do you dress up for Christmas eve? I try to never dress up...
24) Do you own a Santa Hat? there is one around here somewhere - not sure if it is mine
25) Who do you normally spend Christmas with? John, the boys, and my brother Matt and Nancy.... sure wish my sister could be here!!!
Is there anyone who reads my blog that is not tagged??? If so - consider yourself tagged... yes, that means you Heather and Jen.... and if you are a reader that doesn't have a blog - you can do it in email!!!
1) Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate? I do like Egg Nog... but nothing beats a really good hot chocolate... like the one at the Parking Lot Party the other night - it was YUMMY!!!
2) Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree? Usually Santa bring in the BIG gift so it is either in a very large bag or maybe a sheet thrown over...
3) Colored lights or white? Ummm... I forget what I have on my tree... I think it's colored????
4) Do you hang mistletoe? nope
5) When do you get out your decorations? whenever I can get someone to muddle through the mess in the garage to get them out... (which is tomorrow morning - thanks to Danny!)... and whenever it fits into my schedule - which there hasn't been much room lately...
6) Favorite holiday dish, excluding dessert? Well, we don't do a "traditional" (yes, I did use quotation marks)dinner at Christmas time... but at Thanksgiving it's my mom's stuffing!!! white bread, apples, sausage.... yummy....
7) Favorite holiday memory as a child? hmmmm... can't seem to come up with one...not a particular one anyway ... but I always loved when we all went to my Grandmother's house for holidays.... I loved it there...
8) When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? what do you mean "the truth?"... what are you trying to say?
9) Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? yep - generally we open all our gifts on Christmas Eve (except for Santa) because that is the only day we have all 3 boys... Cole and Christopher are usually gone by Christmas morning....
10) How do you decorate your trees? Everyone in the house has ornaments that were put into their stocking when we took the tree down the previous year ... they are then responsible for hanging those ornaments on the tree this year... there is really no theme to the tree - if you can believe it about me - very little "matches".... just a hodgepodge of stuff I have collected over the years...
11) Snow, love it or hate it? Have never lived in the snow - but loved it when I visited it!
12) Can you ice skate? I have only tried once - when I took Christopher to Colorado on vacation... we did manage to make it around the rink a few times...
13) Do you remember your favorite gift? hmmm... another one I have to think about... John works really hard on gifts for me at Christmas and he really outdid himself last year.... I am still amazed at my Fossil purse and how he picked out just the right one!!!... also my horse blanket from several years ago that he went to 5 stores to find... EDIT: just read Hattie's blog and her favorite gift is her cello - which reminds me of the violin that John bought me - no, I don't play but desperately want to.... and then that reminded me of the year he got the flag from my dad's funeral put in a glass display box ... I really do have an awesome husband...
14) What is the most important thing about the holidays for you? Jesus and my boys
15) Favorite Holiday dessert? fudge
16) Favorite Christmas tradition? how we open the gifts... I don't put name tags on the gifts... everyone has their own wrapping paper... I put a swatch of that wrapping paper down in the toe of their stocking... so we then draw names and take a turn at opening the stockings - it's at that point the boys begin to realize which gifts are theirs under the tree... then we draw names again to see who opens a gift... putting all the names back in after one gift... we continue until all the gifts are open... this slows down the whole process and makes it all about watching each other and not a mad dash to just tear into your own stuff...
17) What tops your tree? wow - I am losing it - I don't remember that either...
18) What's better giving or receiving? should I be honest or do you want the good Christian answer?
19) Favorite Christmas song? Possibly O Holy Night...
20) Candy Canes, yummy or yucky? they can be good.
21) What do you want for Christmas? Disneyland passes... but since John has lost weekends (32 hours of OT on each paycheck) ... not sure if that is going to be possible...
22) Do you attend an annual Christmas Party? church banquet where we watch the annual slide show!!! - (which we are still working on - so if you have a great picture that just MUST get in there - send it to us!!)
23) Do you dress up for Christmas eve? I try to never dress up...
24) Do you own a Santa Hat? there is one around here somewhere - not sure if it is mine
25) Who do you normally spend Christmas with? John, the boys, and my brother Matt and Nancy.... sure wish my sister could be here!!!
Is there anyone who reads my blog that is not tagged??? If so - consider yourself tagged... yes, that means you Heather and Jen.... and if you are a reader that doesn't have a blog - you can do it in email!!!
Monday, December 8, 2008
My Body Won....
well - sorta...
I have been sick since before Thanksgiving... maybe it was even the week before that - I don't remember... and I have been pushing my self to go and do... I did that for 2 reasons: 1. I had a lot to do. 2. I thought that if I keep up and going and don't give in then I will eventually feel better.
And I have had days where I did feel better - but mainly because I was on drugs that masked the symptoms and gave me energy. But, today I just had to give in. I don't work at the church today ... just had Taco Bell deliveries - so I called in. I hate to do that because I know that the area manager then has to do the deliveries and he has lots to do himself... but I just had to. Every inch of my body hurts...
I'm trying to hurry and get some housework done (I can't rest in a messy home) so I can go and rest....
Jake has been fed and schoolwork done... clean dishes put away... cleaned out the fridge and washed those containers... picked up here and there in the house.... gonna go now and fold a pile of towels...
But I think I will heat up my tea first....
I have been sick since before Thanksgiving... maybe it was even the week before that - I don't remember... and I have been pushing my self to go and do... I did that for 2 reasons: 1. I had a lot to do. 2. I thought that if I keep up and going and don't give in then I will eventually feel better.
And I have had days where I did feel better - but mainly because I was on drugs that masked the symptoms and gave me energy. But, today I just had to give in. I don't work at the church today ... just had Taco Bell deliveries - so I called in. I hate to do that because I know that the area manager then has to do the deliveries and he has lots to do himself... but I just had to. Every inch of my body hurts...
I'm trying to hurry and get some housework done (I can't rest in a messy home) so I can go and rest....
Jake has been fed and schoolwork done... clean dishes put away... cleaned out the fridge and washed those containers... picked up here and there in the house.... gonna go now and fold a pile of towels...
But I think I will heat up my tea first....
Monday, December 1, 2008
Thanksgiving Weekend
This Thanksgiving we made dinner, ate and headed out of town!!
None of that happened as fast as I would have liked... but it is par for course in the Hammond household.
Our Pastor owns a home outside of Tehachapi, CA in a small gated community called Bear Valley Springs. He keeps it as a vacation and one day retirement home... It just so happened that he ran into a small plumbing problem. Since John is a master plumber, that is great news for us!!!
We went up, he did the small plumbing job and we had 4 (well 3 by the time we got there on Thurs)... great days in the country... I got up in the morning, went to the kitchen to make coffee and look out the window to see the horses across the street grazing.... ahhh.... what a life.
We have been there twice (no, we didn't break the plumbing last time so we could go up again...) and both absolutely love the town. It's got a small town feel but not so small that one feels they are far removed from civilization...in fact, they have a KMart, a movie theatre, and a SONIC!
Last time we were there, John and I drove around and just looked at the countryside... On our way to the lake we found a house for sale.... sitting on almost 5 acres of horse property. The house is older (think Brady Bunch) but the kitchen has been updated, it has a huge dining room and a view of the lake.
So, this time - we HAD to go back and see if the house is still available. Yep - it is. Now, John and I know we are in no position to go off and buy a house ... but we can dream!!!!
I guess the only thing stopping us is work for John... but there is a prison not far from there...hmmm... I wonder if they have a program where they teach inmates trades??? And I could start the horse conservation that I dream of ... and John would be able to fish whenever he wanted!!!
As I type this - I realize that I didn't take one picture... sorry...
2 problems with this dream - Family (his and mine).... what would I do about my mom? It would be a little too far from her... and it would be alot too close to his!!!
Oh well...
None of that happened as fast as I would have liked... but it is par for course in the Hammond household.
Our Pastor owns a home outside of Tehachapi, CA in a small gated community called Bear Valley Springs. He keeps it as a vacation and one day retirement home... It just so happened that he ran into a small plumbing problem. Since John is a master plumber, that is great news for us!!!
We went up, he did the small plumbing job and we had 4 (well 3 by the time we got there on Thurs)... great days in the country... I got up in the morning, went to the kitchen to make coffee and look out the window to see the horses across the street grazing.... ahhh.... what a life.
We have been there twice (no, we didn't break the plumbing last time so we could go up again...) and both absolutely love the town. It's got a small town feel but not so small that one feels they are far removed from civilization...in fact, they have a KMart, a movie theatre, and a SONIC!
Last time we were there, John and I drove around and just looked at the countryside... On our way to the lake we found a house for sale.... sitting on almost 5 acres of horse property. The house is older (think Brady Bunch) but the kitchen has been updated, it has a huge dining room and a view of the lake.
So, this time - we HAD to go back and see if the house is still available. Yep - it is. Now, John and I know we are in no position to go off and buy a house ... but we can dream!!!!
I guess the only thing stopping us is work for John... but there is a prison not far from there...hmmm... I wonder if they have a program where they teach inmates trades??? And I could start the horse conservation that I dream of ... and John would be able to fish whenever he wanted!!!
As I type this - I realize that I didn't take one picture... sorry...
2 problems with this dream - Family (his and mine).... what would I do about my mom? It would be a little too far from her... and it would be alot too close to his!!!
Oh well...
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Friday, November 14, 2008
I should know better by now...
than to get into a conversation with my mom about my parenting.
The first time - I actually asked the question, "Mom, do you think I am a good parent?" And after she "ummed" for a few moments, she began to tell me that "No, I believe that Jake could be kept cleaner. His fingernails usually need to be cut and they are always dirty."
That was it - that was how she summed up my parenting. Jake's fingernails.
Well, the other day she was commenting on my niece (the one that stays at the bar all hours of the day and night) .. and her parenting. She said of her, "well - I can say one thing, she always keeps her children clean."
So, under my breath, I said - "I guess that makes her a better parent than me." I knew that it shouldn't have been said out loud... but it was... I couldn't take it back no matter how hard I tried. She asked me what I said, and I said nothing - but she had heard it... got mad and got out of the car.
Today she came over and asked me, "Is there something bothering you in your life?"
My reply - "well, isn't there something bothering most people in their life? Is there something specific you are referring to?"
So, then she brought up yesterday's conversation and as a Christian how could I not be happy that someone has something nice said about someone else? I thought, "so, now I am a bad mom and a bad Christian"...I was smart enough not to say that one out loud.
I answered "yes, I said that but it's because you said to me that I am a bad parent because I don't keep my kids clean enough."
She didn't deny that conversation but said that she did not say that I was a bad parent... I told her that "yes, in fact, she did." More denial...
I then told her that she is very critical of me and nothing I ever do is good enough... she left.
Whenever my mom comes to my house she has to make sure that she inspects each and every room... she makes up some excuse as to why she has to be in my bedroom standing there looking around. She goes through the kids drawers to make sure they are neat and orderly... she counts my husbands clothes to make sure they are all there (and not left in his truck like he has a habit of doing)... she looks in my refrigerator and freezer to see if I have too much food (yes you read right - it drives her crazy if my freezer is full)...she will open my washer and dryer to see if I have clothes left in there... my sister has even caught her going through my trash to look for receipts so she can see what we buy....She is inspecting my home and summing up my job as a wife and a mother....
If she finds anything she doesn't like - she takes it upon herself to fix it. I have come home with everything in my freezer or fridge lined up on my kitchen counter ... so that she can check all the dates and then I can put it all back in correctly...
And I guess the worst part of it all is that she has done this even before she has said hello to anyone! I beg her - please come over to VISIT... spend time with Jake.. talk to Christopher... Don't clean my house!!! I'm not talking about in a time of crisis or when I am sick - lending a hand and helping me out... I'm talking just any 'ol random day she feels that she can and has to take upon herself MY house...
I guess it seems that I am talking about 2 different issues here - but it really sums up into one... She thinks that I am not capable of doing anything on my own.... whatever it is that I do do - it's not good enough.
I'm pretty sure that is why I strive so hard to prove to the world just the opposite .... well, I don't know where I'm going anymore other than just to vent.... but at least you know now why I am so neurotic at times....
The first time - I actually asked the question, "Mom, do you think I am a good parent?" And after she "ummed" for a few moments, she began to tell me that "No, I believe that Jake could be kept cleaner. His fingernails usually need to be cut and they are always dirty."
That was it - that was how she summed up my parenting. Jake's fingernails.
Well, the other day she was commenting on my niece (the one that stays at the bar all hours of the day and night) .. and her parenting. She said of her, "well - I can say one thing, she always keeps her children clean."
So, under my breath, I said - "I guess that makes her a better parent than me." I knew that it shouldn't have been said out loud... but it was... I couldn't take it back no matter how hard I tried. She asked me what I said, and I said nothing - but she had heard it... got mad and got out of the car.
Today she came over and asked me, "Is there something bothering you in your life?"
My reply - "well, isn't there something bothering most people in their life? Is there something specific you are referring to?"
So, then she brought up yesterday's conversation and as a Christian how could I not be happy that someone has something nice said about someone else? I thought, "so, now I am a bad mom and a bad Christian"...I was smart enough not to say that one out loud.
I answered "yes, I said that but it's because you said to me that I am a bad parent because I don't keep my kids clean enough."
She didn't deny that conversation but said that she did not say that I was a bad parent... I told her that "yes, in fact, she did." More denial...
I then told her that she is very critical of me and nothing I ever do is good enough... she left.
Whenever my mom comes to my house she has to make sure that she inspects each and every room... she makes up some excuse as to why she has to be in my bedroom standing there looking around. She goes through the kids drawers to make sure they are neat and orderly... she counts my husbands clothes to make sure they are all there (and not left in his truck like he has a habit of doing)... she looks in my refrigerator and freezer to see if I have too much food (yes you read right - it drives her crazy if my freezer is full)...she will open my washer and dryer to see if I have clothes left in there... my sister has even caught her going through my trash to look for receipts so she can see what we buy....She is inspecting my home and summing up my job as a wife and a mother....
If she finds anything she doesn't like - she takes it upon herself to fix it. I have come home with everything in my freezer or fridge lined up on my kitchen counter ... so that she can check all the dates and then I can put it all back in correctly...
And I guess the worst part of it all is that she has done this even before she has said hello to anyone! I beg her - please come over to VISIT... spend time with Jake.. talk to Christopher... Don't clean my house!!! I'm not talking about in a time of crisis or when I am sick - lending a hand and helping me out... I'm talking just any 'ol random day she feels that she can and has to take upon herself MY house...
I guess it seems that I am talking about 2 different issues here - but it really sums up into one... She thinks that I am not capable of doing anything on my own.... whatever it is that I do do - it's not good enough.
I'm pretty sure that is why I strive so hard to prove to the world just the opposite .... well, I don't know where I'm going anymore other than just to vent.... but at least you know now why I am so neurotic at times....
Monday, November 10, 2008
Tagged..... hmmm...
Well, I was tagged I think 3 times so I guess I have to do this... but hmmmm... what to say that everyone doesn't already know? I don't keep much secret....
Guess I will have to think about it... check back later... I need coffee first.
1st Edit:
Hmmm... 1/2 a cup of coffee down... what do I have to share? You already know I have 3 tattoos - that's not new news... hmmm...
1. I can't stand the taste of cloves or black licorice. My mom used to put cloves all over ham ... and I bit into one once....ugggghhh... and black licorice - that's just yuk.
2. My sister's dad thought for the longest time (don't know if he ever really believed differently) that I was her child and not my mom's. He believed that my dad, my mom, 2 of my brothers and my sister all squeezed into a Volkswagen Bug and drove from Cali to Texas because my sister was pregnant.... in fact it was my mom that was pregnant - with me.
Ok ... drawing a blank... have to think some more....
2nd Try:
3. I desperately want a house with a wrap around porch. My grandmother (the only one I knew - my dad's mom) had a huge front porch with a swing on it - the best memories of childhood come from that home.
4. I went to college to become a Elem Ed Teacher... I didn't finish because I let some boy rule me... The desire to teach began for me in 6th grade when my elem school started a program for the GT kids in 6th grade to tutor the slower kids in 1st and 2nd in reading.. We had to develop our own lesson plans, flash cards, etc - I had a girl in 1st who was painfully shy and wouldn't speak and a boy in the 2nd who was ADHD before there was ADHD... they were both in the bottom level of reading and by the end of the year had moved to the top! I was hooked... even though I didn't finish college and become a public school teacher - God has been so gracious to allow me many opportunities to fulfill this desire...
5. It makes my blood boil to see someone get bullied... I was bullied constantly by my brother. He would take my stuffed bear and hold it above his head ... I would cry and my mother would tell me to leave my brother alone.
6. In elem school I was always the last one picked for kickball. I hated recess. Maybe that is why today I still don't enjoy sports... and maybe another reason why I so looked forward to going to the library to tutor.
Stuck again... gotta think some more...
3rd go around: Thought so much I came up with 2 more! So now I have 8
7. I enjoy math. I'm not the greatest at it but I like higher math like Algebra and Geometry - I see it as a puzzle and then it becomes fun. I also had a slight crush on my Algebra teacher in high school....
8. When John and I used to have a boat we used to take days off and play hookey from work and the kids. We were both working full time then... I would call in sick and he was self employed... My mom was watching the kids back then and we would both tell her we were going to work and would take the boat out to the harbor. John would fish and I would fish some but mainly read. We didn't talk much... just enjoyed each others company and the peace and quiet. As much as we all know how I like to stay busy, I miss those days.
OK - now I'm done.... let's see - what readers do I have that are not tagged in others blogs?? Heather? I don't know who else actually reads my blogs - so if you do - consider yourself tagged!
EDIT AGAIN: now I keep thinking of more - here's another: I'm allergic to CoverGirl Makeup... for the same reason I am allergic to Noxema - they both contain Noxell...
Guess I will have to think about it... check back later... I need coffee first.
1st Edit:
Hmmm... 1/2 a cup of coffee down... what do I have to share? You already know I have 3 tattoos - that's not new news... hmmm...
1. I can't stand the taste of cloves or black licorice. My mom used to put cloves all over ham ... and I bit into one once....ugggghhh... and black licorice - that's just yuk.
2. My sister's dad thought for the longest time (don't know if he ever really believed differently) that I was her child and not my mom's. He believed that my dad, my mom, 2 of my brothers and my sister all squeezed into a Volkswagen Bug and drove from Cali to Texas because my sister was pregnant.... in fact it was my mom that was pregnant - with me.
Ok ... drawing a blank... have to think some more....
2nd Try:
3. I desperately want a house with a wrap around porch. My grandmother (the only one I knew - my dad's mom) had a huge front porch with a swing on it - the best memories of childhood come from that home.
4. I went to college to become a Elem Ed Teacher... I didn't finish because I let some boy rule me... The desire to teach began for me in 6th grade when my elem school started a program for the GT kids in 6th grade to tutor the slower kids in 1st and 2nd in reading.. We had to develop our own lesson plans, flash cards, etc - I had a girl in 1st who was painfully shy and wouldn't speak and a boy in the 2nd who was ADHD before there was ADHD... they were both in the bottom level of reading and by the end of the year had moved to the top! I was hooked... even though I didn't finish college and become a public school teacher - God has been so gracious to allow me many opportunities to fulfill this desire...
5. It makes my blood boil to see someone get bullied... I was bullied constantly by my brother. He would take my stuffed bear and hold it above his head ... I would cry and my mother would tell me to leave my brother alone.
6. In elem school I was always the last one picked for kickball. I hated recess. Maybe that is why today I still don't enjoy sports... and maybe another reason why I so looked forward to going to the library to tutor.
Stuck again... gotta think some more...
3rd go around: Thought so much I came up with 2 more! So now I have 8
7. I enjoy math. I'm not the greatest at it but I like higher math like Algebra and Geometry - I see it as a puzzle and then it becomes fun. I also had a slight crush on my Algebra teacher in high school....
8. When John and I used to have a boat we used to take days off and play hookey from work and the kids. We were both working full time then... I would call in sick and he was self employed... My mom was watching the kids back then and we would both tell her we were going to work and would take the boat out to the harbor. John would fish and I would fish some but mainly read. We didn't talk much... just enjoyed each others company and the peace and quiet. As much as we all know how I like to stay busy, I miss those days.
OK - now I'm done.... let's see - what readers do I have that are not tagged in others blogs?? Heather? I don't know who else actually reads my blogs - so if you do - consider yourself tagged!
EDIT AGAIN: now I keep thinking of more - here's another: I'm allergic to CoverGirl Makeup... for the same reason I am allergic to Noxema - they both contain Noxell...
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
RE: Election
I have read 2 blogs that best sum up my feelings about this election...
Candice's blog
and one that Mike Huckebee (who was my choice for President all along) posted on his myspace:
We Will Be Back in Strength
by Mike Huckabee
I'm very proud to have supported Senator McCain and the only regret is that more Americans didn't share my conviction that he would have made an outstanding President. I not only recognize, but respect that we are a nation in which the people choose and tonight they have chosen Senator Obama. He was not my choice, but he will be my President and I will pray for him to lead this great nation with God's help and grace. He will face serious challenges to lead our country and he will need all Americans to give him a chance.
The campaign is over and now is the time for governing and leading. The Republican Party must now reassess where it is and where it is going. Our problem is not that our views aren't acceptable, it is that many in our party have abandoned the very principles that once drew Americans to trust us. Our party will be back with strength, but tonight we should all celebrate the historic nature of this election and put our country ahead of our party.
As disappointed as I am that we have lost the election, I can't help but feel that many courageous leaders of the civil rights movement look down from heaven tonight with a smile that the day has come when a man is elected without regard to his color. I salute President-elect Obama for his discipline and tenacity that has given our country the opportunity to witness this significant event.
Politics is not an event but a process. We sometimes lose the events but it never gives us the right to stop being faithful to our principles that enlisted us in the process. We shall live to fight another day.
In short - like him or not, Obama will be our President for the next 4 years. I feel as an American, our country should unite as one and support our leader. Division will only make us weaker.... and that is just what the enemy is hoping for.
Candice's blog
and one that Mike Huckebee (who was my choice for President all along) posted on his myspace:
We Will Be Back in Strength
by Mike Huckabee
I'm very proud to have supported Senator McCain and the only regret is that more Americans didn't share my conviction that he would have made an outstanding President. I not only recognize, but respect that we are a nation in which the people choose and tonight they have chosen Senator Obama. He was not my choice, but he will be my President and I will pray for him to lead this great nation with God's help and grace. He will face serious challenges to lead our country and he will need all Americans to give him a chance.
The campaign is over and now is the time for governing and leading. The Republican Party must now reassess where it is and where it is going. Our problem is not that our views aren't acceptable, it is that many in our party have abandoned the very principles that once drew Americans to trust us. Our party will be back with strength, but tonight we should all celebrate the historic nature of this election and put our country ahead of our party.
As disappointed as I am that we have lost the election, I can't help but feel that many courageous leaders of the civil rights movement look down from heaven tonight with a smile that the day has come when a man is elected without regard to his color. I salute President-elect Obama for his discipline and tenacity that has given our country the opportunity to witness this significant event.
Politics is not an event but a process. We sometimes lose the events but it never gives us the right to stop being faithful to our principles that enlisted us in the process. We shall live to fight another day.
In short - like him or not, Obama will be our President for the next 4 years. I feel as an American, our country should unite as one and support our leader. Division will only make us weaker.... and that is just what the enemy is hoping for.
Friday, October 31, 2008
TRUNK OR TREAT....
Wow - what an amazing night!!! Everyone came out, decorated their cars - really got into the fun of being around children... handed out tons of candy...gave away free snowcones and burritos from Taco Bell... and SHARED THE GOSPEL!!!
We had 6 stations set up where the Wordless Book was shared one color at a time.... Gold for the streets of Gold in Heaven... then onto the dark page - where you were told, Heaven sounds great but we can't go there because there is sin in our lives... oh but wait, there IS a way - onto the red page.... where they learned of the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross for their sin....(at this stop there were huge crowds - asking questions and wanting to know more...) down the lane a bit more to the white page where they learned that Jesus rose again on the third day and wants to invite us into His family!!!... (at this stop - they were offered the chance for salvation ... and over 100 accepted!!!!) .... then on to the green page where they learned how to grow in Christ.... then finally on to the blue page where our Helper the Holy Spirit was waiting to wrap it all up....
Again .... what an amazing night... THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU - for those of you who came out and was a part of this event.... your participation helped change someone's life.
We had 6 stations set up where the Wordless Book was shared one color at a time.... Gold for the streets of Gold in Heaven... then onto the dark page - where you were told, Heaven sounds great but we can't go there because there is sin in our lives... oh but wait, there IS a way - onto the red page.... where they learned of the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross for their sin....(at this stop there were huge crowds - asking questions and wanting to know more...) down the lane a bit more to the white page where they learned that Jesus rose again on the third day and wants to invite us into His family!!!... (at this stop - they were offered the chance for salvation ... and over 100 accepted!!!!) .... then on to the green page where they learned how to grow in Christ.... then finally on to the blue page where our Helper the Holy Spirit was waiting to wrap it all up....
Again .... what an amazing night... THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU - for those of you who came out and was a part of this event.... your participation helped change someone's life.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
God's Appointed One
Pastor Mark Arnold in Lebanon, Ohio, wrote this true account. He first sent it out to a small handful of friends and relatives, never dreaming that, thanks to e-mail, it would travel around the world. As of today, he's heard back from 50 states, 36 nations, and several major Christian ministries and news networks, and he has received more than 11,800 e-mails.
When Arnold was asked what he felt the value was in letting this story go public, he said he is seeing people moved and coming out of the “caves” they've been in, coming alive and realizing that they need to get involved in the affairs of the nation and not sleep through this season as the church did when believers allowed prayer to be removed from schools.
Pastor Mark Arnold of Lebanon, Ohio, writes:
On Sept. 9, the McCain/Palin bus came through a little town called Lebanon, Ohio. The Lord allowed me to go to the rally [to give McCain and Palin] a message that He wanted me to personally deliver.
Sunday Night: A burden hit me that would only shake me to my knees--I prayed and wept for our nation. Never has my heart been so broken before God. I literally interceded for these wonderful people who do not deserve all the hate against them.
The God-haters are going to try everything to stop them, but they will not succeed!
God is not pleased with the “bashing” in the news of this “anointed” person [Sarah Palin]. He has called her for this time! I promised God that I would pray and hold them up in prayer. I would “listen” out and be mindful of where they were. The following day is important in this time line ... because I didn't even know until God spoke to me.
Monday and into Monday night: The burden of prayer was so heavy that I was literally shaking and could not stop weeping. I didn't know that they were coming to Ohio. I prayed and walked and wept and walked. I prayed and prayed and wept and prayed.
Tuesday at 2:00 a.m.: God spoke these words to me: “Go turn the radio on!” Immediately the reporter's words were, “McCain & Palin bus to be in Lebanon later this morning for a 10:00 a.m.
rally!”
Immediately on hearing that news, I heard God again. God said, “You are to go.
You will meet them and give them a message for Me!”
I prayed as an intercessor and went to a place in prayer that I don't think I've ever been … because the Lord had just visited me … and I knew I was on a “mission.” I had now been up since Sunday night … and now it's Tuesday and I've got to go on the “Word of the Lord.” He sure became my strength as this unfolds.
I didn't stop praying until I drove over to the town and parked the car. The news would later report they were expecting 5,000 people, [but] the actual head-count of those who had been scanned was more than 10,000 people.
I simply obeyed … and God actually told me where to stand, who to talk to … and when to be on the move. I had sure learned on the mission field, when God wants to open a door, He will do it at the appropriate time. He always has someone to assist … and even those standing beside you may just be an angel.
I struck up a conversation with an agent on the ground. He simply said, “I can't allow you to stand here!” Here is where the bus was going to actually pull up to. They had to make a much larger perimeter, so the entire area was now being moved back several blocks. The only other thing he told me to do was to go through the metal detector zone and just watch from the back. So, that's what I did.
Due to [the] sensitivity of the Internet, I can't share much of the story. As to what happened next, [it] was a definite God thing all the way.
Looking over the shoulders and backs and heads of all those people … I knew it would take a miracle for what God told me to do.
As I was standing there, two Boy Scouts came running up my back. Literally, they almost knocked me to the ground because they were running so fast behind me, up my back and over to the right. These Boy Scouts were about Junior High age. Their Scout Leader and several others were behind them, but as the two out front [were] trying to push through the crowd, saying they were late, the smaller scouts were left in their dust. The Scout Leader, who was with a McCain rep. from the State, grabbed me and told me [to] bring the other Scouts up front as they try to keep up with the first two that just came through.
I just became the leader of the rest of the Scouts to lead them right up front and center. As the rep. was shouting back at me to bring the Scouts forward, the people parted just like God parted the Red Sea.
I marched those boys right up front and to the right of the stage as one was looking from the back. When I got there I was fifteen feet from the podium. God said, “Stand here, and don't move from this spot.
”
Within five minutes the bus pulled up, and around the other side McCain, Sarah Palin and her husband, Todd, stepped up and the speeches took off. I was where God placed me … and even Sarah Palin and Todd were standing on my side of the stage. I made eye contact, I gave them thumbs-up gestures … and I knew they were just happy to see me standing there. Ha ha.
When they came around the podium and started on the other side, I knew they were coming right toward me. A little lady who stood by me, reached up and told the rep. that they had promised a picture with her because she was the one who had lost a son in Iraq recently. The rep. confirmed she would get a pic with them and they would talk to her.
When McCain came to hug her … he immediately shook my hand and following his moment with her, I shook his hand as he grabbed my hand, now for the second time, and I said, “God wants you to know that I'm praying for you, Sir!” He thanked me and kept smiling. I repeated that phrase to him five times. He grabbed my hands and looked right into my eyes and said, “I won't make it without prayer. Sir, thank you for praying for me, and don't let one day go by that you don't pray for me. I need all the prayers that I can get.
Thank you, thank you, thank you!”
As he moved to my right, Sarah Palin came over to my left side … standing over the crowd and then looking at the little lady who had lost the son. It took a moment for her to shake some hands and people were pushing in all around. Sarah came and got on her hands and knees on that side of the stage and hugged that little mom, telling her, “It was not in vain.” She promised her support.
It was at this moment Sarah Palin reached out for me to help her up, and as I was assisting her to stand, I was now face-to-face with her, and God said, “Open up your mouth and I will fill it.
”
Here is what came out:
“God wants you to know that you are a present-day Esther!”
[She immediately began to cry!]
“God wants to tell you that you are chosen for such a time as this!”
“You are called, and chosen to be a leader.
”
“Don't lose heart and don't fear man.
”
“The news and naysayers and criticizers are going to be very hateful toward you … and in the days ahead they are going to turn up the heat … but do not fear.
”
“You are a present-day Esther.” You are an Esther.
You are an Esther!
“Keep your eyes on God and know that He has chosen you to reign!”
“Stay strong ... be strong ... don't tire. Don't be weary in well-doing. Be strong.
”
Her husband, Todd, came over, and I told him what I told her. He began to cry.
I emphasized the fact that he was to guard her at this time … and know that “she is God-called and God-anointed.
”
“This is a God-thing and your wife is a present-day Esther ... she is for God to use at this time ... she is an Esther ... she is an Esther ... she is an Esther.
”
“You will be hated … but stand strong … God has called both of you to stand!”
“We are praying and I am praying for you!”
At this moment, McCain came right to where I was finishing talking to Todd, and I told Mr. McCain exactly what I told to Sarah and Todd Palin.
“Mr. McCain … they are called of God and she is an Esther.
”
“Don't lose hope and don't lose heart.
”
“We are praying for all of you!”
He shook my hand and with a deep look of understanding what I had just said, he said, “Thank you for your prayers and support ... I really do mean that!”
And he turned and shook more hands … and I watched them as they went through the crowd.
When I got to my car I sat there for quite a long time … knowing the God of the universe had just used me to deliver a message confirming to Sarah and Todd to realize they are truly chosen vessels of God.
I wept. I have not stopped praying and crying.
My heart is full knowing they had to have all the staging and all the hype and all the crowd … but the God of heaven and earth … wanted to give them a divine God-appointment!
To God be all the glory and honor.
If anyone wants to know if I believe God can speak.
Yes … absolutely, is my answer!
Be praying for me … and let me know what you think about all of this.
Pastor Mark Arnold
When Arnold was asked what he felt the value was in letting this story go public, he said he is seeing people moved and coming out of the “caves” they've been in, coming alive and realizing that they need to get involved in the affairs of the nation and not sleep through this season as the church did when believers allowed prayer to be removed from schools.
Pastor Mark Arnold of Lebanon, Ohio, writes:
On Sept. 9, the McCain/Palin bus came through a little town called Lebanon, Ohio. The Lord allowed me to go to the rally [to give McCain and Palin] a message that He wanted me to personally deliver.
Sunday Night: A burden hit me that would only shake me to my knees--I prayed and wept for our nation. Never has my heart been so broken before God. I literally interceded for these wonderful people who do not deserve all the hate against them.
The God-haters are going to try everything to stop them, but they will not succeed!
God is not pleased with the “bashing” in the news of this “anointed” person [Sarah Palin]. He has called her for this time! I promised God that I would pray and hold them up in prayer. I would “listen” out and be mindful of where they were. The following day is important in this time line ... because I didn't even know until God spoke to me.
Monday and into Monday night: The burden of prayer was so heavy that I was literally shaking and could not stop weeping. I didn't know that they were coming to Ohio. I prayed and walked and wept and walked. I prayed and prayed and wept and prayed.
Tuesday at 2:00 a.m.: God spoke these words to me: “Go turn the radio on!” Immediately the reporter's words were, “McCain & Palin bus to be in Lebanon later this morning for a 10:00 a.m.
rally!”
Immediately on hearing that news, I heard God again. God said, “You are to go.
You will meet them and give them a message for Me!”
I prayed as an intercessor and went to a place in prayer that I don't think I've ever been … because the Lord had just visited me … and I knew I was on a “mission.” I had now been up since Sunday night … and now it's Tuesday and I've got to go on the “Word of the Lord.” He sure became my strength as this unfolds.
I didn't stop praying until I drove over to the town and parked the car. The news would later report they were expecting 5,000 people, [but] the actual head-count of those who had been scanned was more than 10,000 people.
I simply obeyed … and God actually told me where to stand, who to talk to … and when to be on the move. I had sure learned on the mission field, when God wants to open a door, He will do it at the appropriate time. He always has someone to assist … and even those standing beside you may just be an angel.
I struck up a conversation with an agent on the ground. He simply said, “I can't allow you to stand here!” Here is where the bus was going to actually pull up to. They had to make a much larger perimeter, so the entire area was now being moved back several blocks. The only other thing he told me to do was to go through the metal detector zone and just watch from the back. So, that's what I did.
Due to [the] sensitivity of the Internet, I can't share much of the story. As to what happened next, [it] was a definite God thing all the way.
Looking over the shoulders and backs and heads of all those people … I knew it would take a miracle for what God told me to do.
As I was standing there, two Boy Scouts came running up my back. Literally, they almost knocked me to the ground because they were running so fast behind me, up my back and over to the right. These Boy Scouts were about Junior High age. Their Scout Leader and several others were behind them, but as the two out front [were] trying to push through the crowd, saying they were late, the smaller scouts were left in their dust. The Scout Leader, who was with a McCain rep. from the State, grabbed me and told me [to] bring the other Scouts up front as they try to keep up with the first two that just came through.
I just became the leader of the rest of the Scouts to lead them right up front and center. As the rep. was shouting back at me to bring the Scouts forward, the people parted just like God parted the Red Sea.
I marched those boys right up front and to the right of the stage as one was looking from the back. When I got there I was fifteen feet from the podium. God said, “Stand here, and don't move from this spot.
”
Within five minutes the bus pulled up, and around the other side McCain, Sarah Palin and her husband, Todd, stepped up and the speeches took off. I was where God placed me … and even Sarah Palin and Todd were standing on my side of the stage. I made eye contact, I gave them thumbs-up gestures … and I knew they were just happy to see me standing there. Ha ha.
When they came around the podium and started on the other side, I knew they were coming right toward me. A little lady who stood by me, reached up and told the rep. that they had promised a picture with her because she was the one who had lost a son in Iraq recently. The rep. confirmed she would get a pic with them and they would talk to her.
When McCain came to hug her … he immediately shook my hand and following his moment with her, I shook his hand as he grabbed my hand, now for the second time, and I said, “God wants you to know that I'm praying for you, Sir!” He thanked me and kept smiling. I repeated that phrase to him five times. He grabbed my hands and looked right into my eyes and said, “I won't make it without prayer. Sir, thank you for praying for me, and don't let one day go by that you don't pray for me. I need all the prayers that I can get.
Thank you, thank you, thank you!”
As he moved to my right, Sarah Palin came over to my left side … standing over the crowd and then looking at the little lady who had lost the son. It took a moment for her to shake some hands and people were pushing in all around. Sarah came and got on her hands and knees on that side of the stage and hugged that little mom, telling her, “It was not in vain.” She promised her support.
It was at this moment Sarah Palin reached out for me to help her up, and as I was assisting her to stand, I was now face-to-face with her, and God said, “Open up your mouth and I will fill it.
”
Here is what came out:
“God wants you to know that you are a present-day Esther!”
[She immediately began to cry!]
“God wants to tell you that you are chosen for such a time as this!”
“You are called, and chosen to be a leader.
”
“Don't lose heart and don't fear man.
”
“The news and naysayers and criticizers are going to be very hateful toward you … and in the days ahead they are going to turn up the heat … but do not fear.
”
“You are a present-day Esther.” You are an Esther.
You are an Esther!
“Keep your eyes on God and know that He has chosen you to reign!”
“Stay strong ... be strong ... don't tire. Don't be weary in well-doing. Be strong.
”
Her husband, Todd, came over, and I told him what I told her. He began to cry.
I emphasized the fact that he was to guard her at this time … and know that “she is God-called and God-anointed.
”
“This is a God-thing and your wife is a present-day Esther ... she is for God to use at this time ... she is an Esther ... she is an Esther ... she is an Esther.
”
“You will be hated … but stand strong … God has called both of you to stand!”
“We are praying and I am praying for you!”
At this moment, McCain came right to where I was finishing talking to Todd, and I told Mr. McCain exactly what I told to Sarah and Todd Palin.
“Mr. McCain … they are called of God and she is an Esther.
”
“Don't lose hope and don't lose heart.
”
“We are praying for all of you!”
He shook my hand and with a deep look of understanding what I had just said, he said, “Thank you for your prayers and support ... I really do mean that!”
And he turned and shook more hands … and I watched them as they went through the crowd.
When I got to my car I sat there for quite a long time … knowing the God of the universe had just used me to deliver a message confirming to Sarah and Todd to realize they are truly chosen vessels of God.
I wept. I have not stopped praying and crying.
My heart is full knowing they had to have all the staging and all the hype and all the crowd … but the God of heaven and earth … wanted to give them a divine God-appointment!
To God be all the glory and honor.
If anyone wants to know if I believe God can speak.
Yes … absolutely, is my answer!
Be praying for me … and let me know what you think about all of this.
Pastor Mark Arnold
Monday, October 27, 2008
A Better Explanation (hopefully)
Let me begin by saying that I do not hate anyone...and am I am not in a place of judgment over ANYone's life. I have someone very close to me (name withheld because I did not get previous permission to use it) that is homosexual. I LOVE HIM - DEARLY. I love his partner as well. It would be very sad and in fact would upset me greatly if he was sick and his partner was not allowed to be by his side in the hospital. They have been together for longer than I can remember and for that reason do think that one should be allowed on the others insurance. That is not my issue...
What I am upset with is how the schools are going farther and farther to take away parental rights. Just like the school has to get permission to hand out an aspirin but can advise and even help a girl obtain an abortion... this is going too far.
In Mass schools ARE teaching about same sex marriages in kindergarten... Parents are not being notified ahead of time and if they want to opt their child out - they can't. That is not right. For many people (you may disagree) but for many people this is a morality issue - and that should be taught at home. Watch this video for what happened to this father when he tried to step into his child's education.
In California - same sex marriage was put out for the voters. It didn't pass. It didn't pass by a HUGE majority. But 4 judges thought they knew better than the voters and overturned the decision. And now it IS being taught here in elementary schools. Here are three news articles to support what I say. article 1 article 2 article 3
I don't remember either of my children being taught about a marriage between a man and a woman in public school - why does this need to be taught???
EDIT: I am glad to report that although the first emails that I have received were hateful and spiteful - to date I have received far more emails with kindness and actually asking for more information... so I guess it worked out in the long run!
What I am upset with is how the schools are going farther and farther to take away parental rights. Just like the school has to get permission to hand out an aspirin but can advise and even help a girl obtain an abortion... this is going too far.
In Mass schools ARE teaching about same sex marriages in kindergarten... Parents are not being notified ahead of time and if they want to opt their child out - they can't. That is not right. For many people (you may disagree) but for many people this is a morality issue - and that should be taught at home. Watch this video for what happened to this father when he tried to step into his child's education.
In California - same sex marriage was put out for the voters. It didn't pass. It didn't pass by a HUGE majority. But 4 judges thought they knew better than the voters and overturned the decision. And now it IS being taught here in elementary schools. Here are three news articles to support what I say. article 1 article 2 article 3
I don't remember either of my children being taught about a marriage between a man and a woman in public school - why does this need to be taught???
EDIT: I am glad to report that although the first emails that I have received were hateful and spiteful - to date I have received far more emails with kindness and actually asking for more information... so I guess it worked out in the long run!
Friday, October 24, 2008
DON'T SELECT ALL!!!!
Oh my what a hornets nest I opened today... I sent out (what I thought to be) a pretty harmless email. Here it is to judge for yourself:
Please read the attached article... this is sooooo much more than marriage or even tolerance... the agenda that is being pushed on children needs to be stopped. This has no place in the kindergarten classroom!!! ! But as you can see in the article - it is already happening... .
For those I have sent this to in California - and if you had any idea of voting no on Prop 8, I hope that you will reconsider.
For those I have sent this to outside of California - heads up --- it will come to your state someday...
With a link to an article that I had received via email
But what I unfortunately forgot to do when I selected all in my address book was to delete a Yahoo group that I am a member of.... YIKES! What came back to me was an pure hatred... (thanks Alexis for defending me).
I know that that group is not the place to post personal or political opinion... I do know that really... it was an accident.... but I have to say that several people did respond to me with kindness and even thanked me for the information and one even said that before the email they were voting the wrong way because they were confused with the wording. They thought that since they were against it they should vote no... so I was happy to be able to right that. (tricky aren't they? - VOTE YES for a state amendment)
In any case - word to the wise: Be careful when selecting all in your email address book!!!!
OH - and just because I may have a different opinion than you - doesn't mean I hate you or anyone else...
Please read the attached article... this is sooooo much more than marriage or even tolerance... the agenda that is being pushed on children needs to be stopped. This has no place in the kindergarten classroom!!! ! But as you can see in the article - it is already happening... .
For those I have sent this to in California - and if you had any idea of voting no on Prop 8, I hope that you will reconsider.
For those I have sent this to outside of California - heads up --- it will come to your state someday...
With a link to an article that I had received via email
But what I unfortunately forgot to do when I selected all in my address book was to delete a Yahoo group that I am a member of.... YIKES! What came back to me was an pure hatred... (thanks Alexis for defending me).
I know that that group is not the place to post personal or political opinion... I do know that really... it was an accident.... but I have to say that several people did respond to me with kindness and even thanked me for the information and one even said that before the email they were voting the wrong way because they were confused with the wording. They thought that since they were against it they should vote no... so I was happy to be able to right that. (tricky aren't they? - VOTE YES for a state amendment)
In any case - word to the wise: Be careful when selecting all in your email address book!!!!
OH - and just because I may have a different opinion than you - doesn't mean I hate you or anyone else...
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Can't Get Enough Useless Information...
A group of kangaroos is called a mob.
And did you know that there were this many variations of spam?
In case you are wondering what to do with your plain spam - there are tons of recipes out there.... and if you just can't get enough of Spam - they even have a Spam Candle:
But if you are like most people and wonder what the heck it really is - you can check out the Spam website where they will answer that question but also allow you to visit the Spam museum and learn about Spam festivals...
And in case you are wondering where the heck did I get all this information? - Check out Maxine's Blog for other useless - I mean great - information!!!
And did you know that there were this many variations of spam?
In case you are wondering what to do with your plain spam - there are tons of recipes out there.... and if you just can't get enough of Spam - they even have a Spam Candle:
But if you are like most people and wonder what the heck it really is - you can check out the Spam website where they will answer that question but also allow you to visit the Spam museum and learn about Spam festivals...
And in case you are wondering where the heck did I get all this information? - Check out Maxine's Blog for other useless - I mean great - information!!!
Saturday, October 18, 2008
I Chased the Lion!!!
Seized the day.... lived for the moment... Well - that's how Nicky described it anyway.
We went to the park yesterday after Academy Day... the kids were playing, mom's were talking... then most of the mom's left and I was alone with John and Jake - who both had brought their skateboard. Yes - John has his very own skateboard... so I was encouraging him to go off and make the loop around the park with his son. His reply - no, there are still a few mom's over there and they will look at me. Whatever... come on Jake - let's go!
So, we went to the top of the hill... then I walked down the hill and got on the skateboard (didn't say I was crazy)... and got on - not really realizing that the hill was not completely over... picking up speed rather quickly (hoping I didn't run over Jake), I made it all the around the back side of the park, around the curve and then up the right side (where all the mom's who were left began to cheer for me!)... A few pushes later, I made it back to the beginning! It was a bit scary but I did it!! The rest of the moms left so John then made a lap with Jake.
We sat for a while talking about their skateboards and I made the comment that we all 3 stand on the board differently. John said that yes, he had noticed that and that my stance was all wrong. He urged me to stand on his board again to feel the difference of my stance and his... but when I got on - I didn't know that I was again on slight of an incline... and not prepared to ride! I had things in my hands and off balance... I rode (again picking up speed) wondering how am I going to stop? John yelled to me - ride off into the grass! So, I did - only to have the board abruptly stop sending me flying face first into the mud. I got up dusted myself off knowing that I was bumped and bruised but for the most part ok.
OK, OK ... so maybe skateboarding isn't what the author was talking about... and maybe, just maybe I am a bit too old for this hobby... but I am still a bit proud of myself none the less.
We went to the park yesterday after Academy Day... the kids were playing, mom's were talking... then most of the mom's left and I was alone with John and Jake - who both had brought their skateboard. Yes - John has his very own skateboard... so I was encouraging him to go off and make the loop around the park with his son. His reply - no, there are still a few mom's over there and they will look at me. Whatever... come on Jake - let's go!
So, we went to the top of the hill... then I walked down the hill and got on the skateboard (didn't say I was crazy)... and got on - not really realizing that the hill was not completely over... picking up speed rather quickly (hoping I didn't run over Jake), I made it all the around the back side of the park, around the curve and then up the right side (where all the mom's who were left began to cheer for me!)... A few pushes later, I made it back to the beginning! It was a bit scary but I did it!! The rest of the moms left so John then made a lap with Jake.
We sat for a while talking about their skateboards and I made the comment that we all 3 stand on the board differently. John said that yes, he had noticed that and that my stance was all wrong. He urged me to stand on his board again to feel the difference of my stance and his... but when I got on - I didn't know that I was again on slight of an incline... and not prepared to ride! I had things in my hands and off balance... I rode (again picking up speed) wondering how am I going to stop? John yelled to me - ride off into the grass! So, I did - only to have the board abruptly stop sending me flying face first into the mud. I got up dusted myself off knowing that I was bumped and bruised but for the most part ok.
OK, OK ... so maybe skateboarding isn't what the author was talking about... and maybe, just maybe I am a bit too old for this hobby... but I am still a bit proud of myself none the less.
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Match-O-Matic
In case you haven't heard - there is a presidential election coming up soon...
A little test created by ABC news helps you to find out who you most agree with...
See if it is who you thought ... Match-O-Matic
Too bad it didn't include Huckabee... I really like Palin - but still believe that McCain messed up when he didn't ask Huck to be his running mate... one step back - the Republican party messed up when we didn't choose Huck as our man!!!
A little test created by ABC news helps you to find out who you most agree with...
See if it is who you thought ... Match-O-Matic
Too bad it didn't include Huckabee... I really like Palin - but still believe that McCain messed up when he didn't ask Huck to be his running mate... one step back - the Republican party messed up when we didn't choose Huck as our man!!!
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
THANK YOU LORD!!!
Christopher went to see the play Sunday night... after the play he talked with one of the cast members. I don't know what this guy said to him... but by the time Christopher got home - he had changed his mind! He told me that Ron had helped him see just how stupid he was being. And he was canceling his plane trip.
He did tell me that (as I had suspected) that a lot of this was about a girl... who just found out that since he has been home - already has gotten a boyfriend. He was planning on moving there and changing her mind.
He was crushed. And I reminded him - she is only 15 son. The wind blows and the moods change... poor boy.
He did tell me that (as I had suspected) that a lot of this was about a girl... who just found out that since he has been home - already has gotten a boyfriend. He was planning on moving there and changing her mind.
He was crushed. And I reminded him - she is only 15 son. The wind blows and the moods change... poor boy.
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Opening Night...
was amazing... I forgot how much I missed that...
thanks sooooo much to those who went... I <3 you all !!!
thanks sooooo much to those who went... I <3 you all !!!
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Am I making him a prodigal?
I just got home from dress rehearsal... and on the way home I was listening to Focus on the Family. They had a speaker who was talking about prodigals. But it wasn't the usual story - it was a challenge to those of us who have judged someone into becoming a prodigal. Without the criticism most likely they would have never left...
He went on to speak to parents: Watch out that we are not missing out on the good things that our kids are doing because all we can see is the bad. Yes, they are trying your last nerve with some of their actions or what they chose to wear ... but the other day when they showed kindness to the stranger? - that was the behavior that Jesus is looking for. He is not having committee meetings about someones clothes or their style of worship.
Another note to parents. Drop the guilt. Stop worrying about how others are judging your parenting. After all - we have the perfect Father with a book full of examples of His children turning away from Him.
Bottom line: He told 2 stories of people that he met in his life - that although they were very conservative in their own behavior, their heart knew no boundaries on who to love. They did not compromise on their beliefs but it did not stop them from loving someone... boldly, physically, plainly.... looking past the sagging pants or the hair - and just giving them a hug.
So, now I have to question myself and my own actions... have I been too critical? Have I shown him just how much I love him? Just how wonderful I think he is? How talented and gifted he is? How much greatness I see in him?? What a blessing he has been to my life?
Probably not... all I have been able to see is that hat...
He went on to speak to parents: Watch out that we are not missing out on the good things that our kids are doing because all we can see is the bad. Yes, they are trying your last nerve with some of their actions or what they chose to wear ... but the other day when they showed kindness to the stranger? - that was the behavior that Jesus is looking for. He is not having committee meetings about someones clothes or their style of worship.
Another note to parents. Drop the guilt. Stop worrying about how others are judging your parenting. After all - we have the perfect Father with a book full of examples of His children turning away from Him.
Bottom line: He told 2 stories of people that he met in his life - that although they were very conservative in their own behavior, their heart knew no boundaries on who to love. They did not compromise on their beliefs but it did not stop them from loving someone... boldly, physically, plainly.... looking past the sagging pants or the hair - and just giving them a hug.
So, now I have to question myself and my own actions... have I been too critical? Have I shown him just how much I love him? Just how wonderful I think he is? How talented and gifted he is? How much greatness I see in him?? What a blessing he has been to my life?
Probably not... all I have been able to see is that hat...
Monday, September 22, 2008
Oh my Gosh - It's this Friday!!!
Butterflies are starting to flutter... opening night is this weekend!!!
In case you want tickets - here's the website to order:
Family Outing (http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/42508)
I know that Stacey and Denise are going - is anyone else???
And even as exciting news - my sister will be here on Saturday...
Wow - what a weekend to come!!!
In case you want tickets - here's the website to order:
Family Outing (http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/42508)
I know that Stacey and Denise are going - is anyone else???
And even as exciting news - my sister will be here on Saturday...
Wow - what a weekend to come!!!
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Today was a good day...
WooHoo!! It's a good day... Mom is home... and Christopher starts his first job tomorrow morning. It's a part time temporary job.. but it's a start. We have been talking about the AirForce to him and he says that it sounds interesting... but who knows what's really going on in that kids head.
I'm teaching in Beginners Church tomorrow... Paul in Silas in jail. This is one of the reasons I love to teach... because I learn (or at least am reminded) right along with the kids. I'm sure you know the story -- Paul in Silas thrown in jail for telling others about Jesus... they begin to praise Him even in what seems to the lowest of lows for them.... they begin to praise Him. They were now free from the house of bondage... And the best part - God was able to use their freed spirits to save a man and his family.
Yep - it's a good day indeed...
I'm teaching in Beginners Church tomorrow... Paul in Silas in jail. This is one of the reasons I love to teach... because I learn (or at least am reminded) right along with the kids. I'm sure you know the story -- Paul in Silas thrown in jail for telling others about Jesus... they begin to praise Him even in what seems to the lowest of lows for them.... they begin to praise Him. They were now free from the house of bondage... And the best part - God was able to use their freed spirits to save a man and his family.
Yep - it's a good day indeed...
Thursday, September 11, 2008
All's good...
With mom anyway....
She had the procedure done today... they went in with a scope and opened up the bile duct with a small incision - in there they found 4 stones. They flushed them out to pass and she should be on the mend soon!!!
Praise God!!! Thank you so much for all of you who were praying!!!
She had the procedure done today... they went in with a scope and opened up the bile duct with a small incision - in there they found 4 stones. They flushed them out to pass and she should be on the mend soon!!!
Praise God!!! Thank you so much for all of you who were praying!!!
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Mom/Son/Trip Update
Today's blood work shows that mom's pancreas situation is getting worse - and it has spread to her liver. I say situation since they still don't know really what "this" is. They have several theories: 1- a small stone they can't see on the CT scan; 2 - scarring in the sphincter muscle from the gallbladder; 3 - the bile duct(s)closing up. If it's #3 - they don't know why it's doing that. At any case tomorrow or Friday they will be transporting her to Torrance to have an ERCP done... (where they go down with a scope, a balloon and a grabber to see, enlarge ducts and extract whatever is in the way). I guess we will know more after that.
Christopher is still planning on moving although I am told by everyone in Texas that they are telling him that this is not a good plan and that he should not do it. I guess we will see what happens when mid October gets here (that's when he says he is going) - since they say they are not funding the trip to get him there. Right now, I am praying for the Air Force. I have been told by 3 people of their experience and training they received there - and it sounds great.
I was planning on taking a vacation the first part of October to go to the East coast with my mom and sister to visit family and see where my mom grew up... but East coast family has said that it is not a good time (with the above 2 things - they are probably right). So, it looks like my sister is coming here to visit instead!
So, in all cases - looking for God's will and plans to be carried out.
Christopher is still planning on moving although I am told by everyone in Texas that they are telling him that this is not a good plan and that he should not do it. I guess we will see what happens when mid October gets here (that's when he says he is going) - since they say they are not funding the trip to get him there. Right now, I am praying for the Air Force. I have been told by 3 people of their experience and training they received there - and it sounds great.
I was planning on taking a vacation the first part of October to go to the East coast with my mom and sister to visit family and see where my mom grew up... but East coast family has said that it is not a good time (with the above 2 things - they are probably right). So, it looks like my sister is coming here to visit instead!
So, in all cases - looking for God's will and plans to be carried out.
Mom back in the Hospital
Well, my mom had her gallbladder (finally) removed last week. She went home the next day and was in quite a bit of pain from the surgery but seemed like she was finally on her way to recovery on Sunday night... or was it Monday night.
Anyway - she called me yesterday morning to rush over there that she was having different pain and it was terrible. She had so much gas that I thought she might explode... and honestly I thought at that time she might be exaggerating the pain a bit much. The pain grew and grew - we called her surgeon and he said get her to the ER now. She didn't think she could walk to the car and for whatever reason her senior bldg doesn't have a wheelchair for cases like this - so here comes the ambulance.
So, at the ER the surgeon came to see her and said that he thinks that the gas is not a simple case of indigestion but a symptom of something else. He believed that she had pancreatitus (inflammation of the pancreas) but he needed to find out why. His best guess was that a stone was loose and lodged in one of the ducts causing all the problems. If that was the case - simple fix go in with a scope and retract the stone. So we waited for blood work to confirm that she did have pancreatitus and a CT scan to confirm the stone.
Blood work confirmed pancreatitus but CT scan does not confirm the stone. So, now she is admitted - waiting for the surgeon and gastro docs to confer and figure out what their next step is.
Pancreatitus in itself is not serious - but if not fixed can lead to serious problems.... so thanks for the prayers already said and any more you can offer.
I will update when I know more...
Anyway - she called me yesterday morning to rush over there that she was having different pain and it was terrible. She had so much gas that I thought she might explode... and honestly I thought at that time she might be exaggerating the pain a bit much. The pain grew and grew - we called her surgeon and he said get her to the ER now. She didn't think she could walk to the car and for whatever reason her senior bldg doesn't have a wheelchair for cases like this - so here comes the ambulance.
So, at the ER the surgeon came to see her and said that he thinks that the gas is not a simple case of indigestion but a symptom of something else. He believed that she had pancreatitus (inflammation of the pancreas) but he needed to find out why. His best guess was that a stone was loose and lodged in one of the ducts causing all the problems. If that was the case - simple fix go in with a scope and retract the stone. So we waited for blood work to confirm that she did have pancreatitus and a CT scan to confirm the stone.
Blood work confirmed pancreatitus but CT scan does not confirm the stone. So, now she is admitted - waiting for the surgeon and gastro docs to confer and figure out what their next step is.
Pancreatitus in itself is not serious - but if not fixed can lead to serious problems.... so thanks for the prayers already said and any more you can offer.
I will update when I know more...
Thursday, September 4, 2008
My heart is ripping in two....
Christopher is making plans to move to Texas.... making these plans behind my back. Running away from a girl here - to a girl there... and using everything I say to him as an excuse to make it all right.
I feel like such a failure...
Being his mom has been such of a fight - right from the beginning. Right after he was born I had a gallbladder attack and went into the hospital for 12 days... then I was released - had another attack and went back in the hospital for another 12 days. Both times - my mother-in-law convinced my husband that he shouldn't bring the baby to see me. When I was released we moved in with her for 6 weeks because I wasn't supposed to lift anything heavy. So... the first 3 months of his life he was held by her...
I then went back to work - she watched him and he drew closer to her. He would cry when I came to pick him up. It was torture.
We moved into another house that wasn't so close to her and things got better. Our relationship grew... and then his dad walked out. So then it was me and him... I felt at times it was Christopher and me against the world.... many things happened but the constant thing was us. It came a time when I needed to work to get myself out of debt so he had to move back into his grandmothers.... for a year I worked and would see him when I could ... until finally he asked me why he couldn't stay with me. I hold onto that moment - at that moment I knew my son loved me.
Over the years - I thought we were drawing closer.... I thought... I have watched him grow and change.... I have watched him accept the Lord into his life... I have watched him learn and thought he was on a path to right choices... he has so much potential... but he is ready to squander it all away...
He has no job... a high school education... no skills... no plan... but he's 18.
I know that I made a lot of these same choices in life... and that is what scares me... I did have a plan - was in college but I allowed stupidity (mainly in the form of a boy) to change the whole course of my life. I want so much more for him.... it is really breaking my heart to watch him do this... and there is nothing I can do about it.
Nothing but stand by and cry...
I have felt for a long time that God has a calling for his life... and sometimes I wonder if it is that pressure that Christopher is running from. I know that he is smart - I know that he knows deep down that what he is doing is wrong - at the very least it doesn't make sense. But maybe the pressure and guilt for not stepping up and into the calling is what he is really running from... I don't know.
But ultimately it makes me not even want to try with the younger one. For 18 years, everything that I have taught Christopher has been refuted by his father... the structure and instruction has been seen by many as nothing by my desire to control. In fact what it was my deep deep love for my son....
Although John has come such a long way as a husband and father... this is one thing that we still battle with. I tell Jake one thing and he is taught quite the opposite by his father... I really don't want to do this again... maybe I should just put him into public school ... get busy(er) with my own life... and let his father raise him. Why try - What is the point of it all????
I feel like such a failure...
Being his mom has been such of a fight - right from the beginning. Right after he was born I had a gallbladder attack and went into the hospital for 12 days... then I was released - had another attack and went back in the hospital for another 12 days. Both times - my mother-in-law convinced my husband that he shouldn't bring the baby to see me. When I was released we moved in with her for 6 weeks because I wasn't supposed to lift anything heavy. So... the first 3 months of his life he was held by her...
I then went back to work - she watched him and he drew closer to her. He would cry when I came to pick him up. It was torture.
We moved into another house that wasn't so close to her and things got better. Our relationship grew... and then his dad walked out. So then it was me and him... I felt at times it was Christopher and me against the world.... many things happened but the constant thing was us. It came a time when I needed to work to get myself out of debt so he had to move back into his grandmothers.... for a year I worked and would see him when I could ... until finally he asked me why he couldn't stay with me. I hold onto that moment - at that moment I knew my son loved me.
Over the years - I thought we were drawing closer.... I thought... I have watched him grow and change.... I have watched him accept the Lord into his life... I have watched him learn and thought he was on a path to right choices... he has so much potential... but he is ready to squander it all away...
He has no job... a high school education... no skills... no plan... but he's 18.
I know that I made a lot of these same choices in life... and that is what scares me... I did have a plan - was in college but I allowed stupidity (mainly in the form of a boy) to change the whole course of my life. I want so much more for him.... it is really breaking my heart to watch him do this... and there is nothing I can do about it.
Nothing but stand by and cry...
I have felt for a long time that God has a calling for his life... and sometimes I wonder if it is that pressure that Christopher is running from. I know that he is smart - I know that he knows deep down that what he is doing is wrong - at the very least it doesn't make sense. But maybe the pressure and guilt for not stepping up and into the calling is what he is really running from... I don't know.
But ultimately it makes me not even want to try with the younger one. For 18 years, everything that I have taught Christopher has been refuted by his father... the structure and instruction has been seen by many as nothing by my desire to control. In fact what it was my deep deep love for my son....
Although John has come such a long way as a husband and father... this is one thing that we still battle with. I tell Jake one thing and he is taught quite the opposite by his father... I really don't want to do this again... maybe I should just put him into public school ... get busy(er) with my own life... and let his father raise him. Why try - What is the point of it all????
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Gadgets....
I like the new gadgets feature of blogger... I added Useless Knowledge - every time you come to my site you will get a new piece of Useless Knowledge... and down at the bottom of the page I added Hangman - you can play a new game over and over... and Vintage Art of the Day - a new piece of artwork daily... FUN! Have you added any? What do you think of them?
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Yet Another Petition Signing...
Yes... these boys go valiantly into a prestigious all girls university and get many signatures on a petition to END WOMEN'S SUFFRAGE!!!
And you know how YouTube works... you watch one video and THEN...
OH Geez... this one is scary... really scary...
And you know how YouTube works... you watch one video and THEN...
OH Geez... this one is scary... really scary...
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Man It Bites When Your Mom is Right!
Had a long talk with Christopher the other night. One of our topics of conversation was the girl here in CA that he has been somewhat interested in. I for the longest time have been telling him that girls at this point in life are just a waste of time. Nothing against girls - after all I am one. But because I am - I know what goes on in the head of a 16 yr old girl....ALOT. The wind can blow and the mood will change. And I (being a mom) don't think that this is anything that my son needs to confuse his already confused head with.... (Side note: this is BTW the same thing I tell the teenage girls in my life about boys!) But he is 18 now... so I have loosened the strings (some anyway).
And back to our conversation the other night.... I asked him - "So, have you been keeping in touch? What's going on with her?" And he said, "Yeah, we talk all the time. But.... (long pause) I don't know about her." "Why son?" "Well, because you just never know what your gonna get. One minute she is fine and the next ...well."
At this point I couldn't help it... I just couldn't. I laughed so hard that I think at one point I actually snorted. I caught my breath and then... "Man it bites when your mom is right..." He laughed, "yeah... it does, it really does."
And back to our conversation the other night.... I asked him - "So, have you been keeping in touch? What's going on with her?" And he said, "Yeah, we talk all the time. But.... (long pause) I don't know about her." "Why son?" "Well, because you just never know what your gonna get. One minute she is fine and the next ...well."
At this point I couldn't help it... I just couldn't. I laughed so hard that I think at one point I actually snorted. I caught my breath and then... "Man it bites when your mom is right..." He laughed, "yeah... it does, it really does."
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Environmental Concern or Hysteria
Will you sign a petition to ban this dangerous chemical - Dihydrogen Monoxide??? These people did... Don't know what it is?? Apparently that doesn't matter - it's all how you spin it... Here's a link to the MSDS sheet if you want more info about it... very dangerous chemical... linked to thousands of deaths every year.... no lie. If you are concerned about your environment and have started going 'GREEN' - you need to watch this video.
Monday, August 4, 2008
How did I get there?
I was searching for the info on the Adventureland Mud Pit (never found it) ... but I stumbled upon a fellow blogger. She has something here for everyone! She's a Christian mom, who loves horses... is taking photography classes and starting her own business (great slide shows of her work)... she loves scrapbooking, has an ebay business... So how did I get there? Like I said, I was looking for Adventurland Mud Pit... and somewhere in a blog of hers she was talking about her horses not being in a mud pit. And then I read the blog about her families trip to Disnleyland (world?)... and how they made a dream of her daughters come true... and then I saw a horse video... and then I read about the crazy money that our government is spending on an embassy in Baghdad... and well, we all know how it works then.... I AM getting off here now and getting ready for work.
Saturday, August 2, 2008
This Could Be Dangerous
From the Maxine Blog (that I am one of the 2 regular readers - well at least commenters) I found the following: The Shoebox Blog. It's full of funny cartoons, card ideas that never made it to a card, and the part that can be really dangerous for me is Newsdroppings. They comment on about 10 different news items (including links) to the actual news article. Being Shoebox - they have a slight twist on what is news worthy and how to see the news - a twist that I find a bit too humorous and can turn my endeavour to be on the computer less into a failure.
I will resist.... I will resist.... I will resist....
I will resist.... I will resist.... I will resist....
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Completely Random
I just realized I haven't blogged in a while... so what's been going on?
Well, I have started a new business - I am a Pampered Chef Consultant. I was very scared at first to start - but like a wise woman told me this weekend - that is what stops most people from doing anything - they don't start. So, I jumped in with both feet first and invited my entire block to a party at my house!! 2 neighbors showed up - but my awesome friends where there to support me. I needed $600 in sales to qualify and my total sales for that one show were $764.00. The month I signed up they were offering new consultants extra spending money if we qualified in our first 30 days. Since I qualified - I not only am getting a commission check - but I received $200 in shopping credit!!!! Talk about excited!!! Since then I have had 2 more shows and have 3 officially on the calendar. Several others are saying they will book - but I need to get the dates down. It has been a lot easier than I thought... I guess it really helps that I actually do believe in the product. Wanna check it out? Here's a link to my website!!
I have also been practicing for our upcoming play at The Bay. We are doing a 3 act play called "Family Outings." I play a 40(ish)wife and mother of 2 boys. I had to do a lot of research for this one - let me tell ya!!! I'm nothing like the character at all - really. One of my lines: "So what if I'm busy? I LIKE being busy!" Production will be the last weekend of September... and it will be dinner theatre! Plan those date nights now!!! (I don't recommend bringing the kiddos due to some of the real life subject matter.)
I have recently learned how to run the sound board for our church. This has opened up a new ministry to me - Funerals. I have done 2 now... the last one was soooo incredibly moving... It was the wife/mom who had died. Poetry that she and her husband had written to each other was read aloud... major tear jerker. I have decided that I don't want to be dead for my funeral. No - I want to be alive and present. It may be the last (and only) time I get to hear some people say nice things about me!!
Christopher is still in Texas ... he doesn't come home until the 21st of August. He got a tattoo the other day. I have had lots of people ask me what I think about it. My answer: I would rather he not - BUT, he's 18 & and he's in Texas - there's not much I can do about it. Yes, I can throw a fit and be mad about it - but I would rather him be home with a tattoo then in Texas with a tattoo. I don't think it's worth losing our relationship over. I had asked 2 things of him: don't get anything that can possibly be considered demonic or have any demonic ties to it - and get it where you can cover it up if you want/need to. He did both those things - so I'm happy. He respected my wishes - so I will respect his.
San Pedro is working on bettering their image - here's a little video of what is new down at the entrance to the Cruise Ship Terminal. (don't know why I decided to turn my camera on the side - sorry but I do think you will enjoy the 1 min clip)
My sister, mom and I are planning a trip to the East Coast in October. My mom's sister is getting pretty up there in age - and my mom is fearful that she might not ever get to see her again... and she wants to be able to take her girls around her old stomping grounds. Her biggest fear is "what about Jake???" Geez mom - I guess his dad will have to figure that out!!
I have recently come back into contact with an old friend. It was a bit awkward - the day and evening happened like it was just last week that we had talked instead of a year and a 1/2 ago. I'm not sure how far it will go or if it will ever be like it was. Actually I don't think that it will ever be EXACTLY the same since I don't think I'm exactly the same person I was then.... but I am happy that our boys have been able to reconnect (young and old) ... they were the best of friends. In fact, they are going fishing tomorrow.
We had an earthquake today. 5.4 or 5.8 on the scale. This was the first one that I actually felt. Kinda freaky. I was on the 2nd floor of our church.... you could totally see things rocking on the bookcase!! I was with our youth pastor - who had never felt one before either. We were like, "Wow-that was big." But of course all the natives were saying that it was nothing. Oh well.
I've probably missed something since it has been a while. But that's all that I can think of right now. Hope I haven't lost all my readers....
Well, I have started a new business - I am a Pampered Chef Consultant. I was very scared at first to start - but like a wise woman told me this weekend - that is what stops most people from doing anything - they don't start. So, I jumped in with both feet first and invited my entire block to a party at my house!! 2 neighbors showed up - but my awesome friends where there to support me. I needed $600 in sales to qualify and my total sales for that one show were $764.00. The month I signed up they were offering new consultants extra spending money if we qualified in our first 30 days. Since I qualified - I not only am getting a commission check - but I received $200 in shopping credit!!!! Talk about excited!!! Since then I have had 2 more shows and have 3 officially on the calendar. Several others are saying they will book - but I need to get the dates down. It has been a lot easier than I thought... I guess it really helps that I actually do believe in the product. Wanna check it out? Here's a link to my website!!
I have also been practicing for our upcoming play at The Bay. We are doing a 3 act play called "Family Outings." I play a 40(ish)wife and mother of 2 boys. I had to do a lot of research for this one - let me tell ya!!! I'm nothing like the character at all - really. One of my lines: "So what if I'm busy? I LIKE being busy!" Production will be the last weekend of September... and it will be dinner theatre! Plan those date nights now!!! (I don't recommend bringing the kiddos due to some of the real life subject matter.)
I have recently learned how to run the sound board for our church. This has opened up a new ministry to me - Funerals. I have done 2 now... the last one was soooo incredibly moving... It was the wife/mom who had died. Poetry that she and her husband had written to each other was read aloud... major tear jerker. I have decided that I don't want to be dead for my funeral. No - I want to be alive and present. It may be the last (and only) time I get to hear some people say nice things about me!!
Christopher is still in Texas ... he doesn't come home until the 21st of August. He got a tattoo the other day. I have had lots of people ask me what I think about it. My answer: I would rather he not - BUT, he's 18 & and he's in Texas - there's not much I can do about it. Yes, I can throw a fit and be mad about it - but I would rather him be home with a tattoo then in Texas with a tattoo. I don't think it's worth losing our relationship over. I had asked 2 things of him: don't get anything that can possibly be considered demonic or have any demonic ties to it - and get it where you can cover it up if you want/need to. He did both those things - so I'm happy. He respected my wishes - so I will respect his.
San Pedro is working on bettering their image - here's a little video of what is new down at the entrance to the Cruise Ship Terminal. (don't know why I decided to turn my camera on the side - sorry but I do think you will enjoy the 1 min clip)
My sister, mom and I are planning a trip to the East Coast in October. My mom's sister is getting pretty up there in age - and my mom is fearful that she might not ever get to see her again... and she wants to be able to take her girls around her old stomping grounds. Her biggest fear is "what about Jake???" Geez mom - I guess his dad will have to figure that out!!
I have recently come back into contact with an old friend. It was a bit awkward - the day and evening happened like it was just last week that we had talked instead of a year and a 1/2 ago. I'm not sure how far it will go or if it will ever be like it was. Actually I don't think that it will ever be EXACTLY the same since I don't think I'm exactly the same person I was then.... but I am happy that our boys have been able to reconnect (young and old) ... they were the best of friends. In fact, they are going fishing tomorrow.
We had an earthquake today. 5.4 or 5.8 on the scale. This was the first one that I actually felt. Kinda freaky. I was on the 2nd floor of our church.... you could totally see things rocking on the bookcase!! I was with our youth pastor - who had never felt one before either. We were like, "Wow-that was big." But of course all the natives were saying that it was nothing. Oh well.
I've probably missed something since it has been a while. But that's all that I can think of right now. Hope I haven't lost all my readers....
Friday, July 18, 2008
Taking Jesus to Backyards everywhere!
Our 5 Day Clubs have come to an end... here's some pics and video of the great time we had this week!!
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
5 Day Clubs
We have been blessed to have been put in contact with a group from Oregon who are doing 5 Day Clubs. These kids are really great... Our leader was telling me about one of the girls - who joined this group without knowing one person. She decided that she wanted to do something for Jesus so she gave up her summer and stepped out into the unknown - and has been blessed beyond measure. I love that that is how our amazing God works...
We had 10 kids the first night and 8 last night. Two of the boys took all the flyers and said they will be handing them out today at summer school!!! I won't be able to be with them tonight (play practice) but I look forward to hearing about another great turnout!!
I really wish I could show you pictures of the kids playing the games or singing the silly songs... but I still can't find the extra battery or battery charger for my camera... :-(
EDIT: Tuesday: 10 boys tonight and 1 little girl who was having nothing to do with those boys.... but 2 of the boys were saved tonight!!! WOOHOO!!!
We had 10 kids the first night and 8 last night. Two of the boys took all the flyers and said they will be handing them out today at summer school!!! I won't be able to be with them tonight (play practice) but I look forward to hearing about another great turnout!!
I really wish I could show you pictures of the kids playing the games or singing the silly songs... but I still can't find the extra battery or battery charger for my camera... :-(
EDIT: Tuesday: 10 boys tonight and 1 little girl who was having nothing to do with those boys.... but 2 of the boys were saved tonight!!! WOOHOO!!!
Monday, July 7, 2008
I FINISHED!!!
Yay!! I finished the entire Stepping Up study.... even going back and doing the ones I had missed. Wow what an incredible study it has been...
We are asked on the last day of study what our fear is now that this journey comes to an end... mine? - That I will eat the seeds and not sow them - or allow them to be sowed into my furrowed back.
I so want to believe the prosperity preachers that say that God will give you everything you ask for. But diving into this study I am reminded that that is not true. God's giving is conditional.
That takes some people by surprise and they say, "How can that be? God is giving by nature... if He loves us then He wants to give us good things and make us happy."
Well, that is true - BUT... again it is all conditional.
"Wait. I thought we were not saved by our deeds but by grace. You're saying that we have to work for his love?"
Oh no... don't get me wrong - we are loved unconditionally... and are in fact saved by grace.... but His blessing - that is conditional.
"Oh jeez... so how many hours of service do I have to give? What do I have to sacrifice to be blessed?"
What we have to give is so small that it could never be called a sacrifice. But hours? He doesn't ask for hours - he asks for a lifetime.
"What could we possibly possess that could be of any value to the Creator of Heaven and earth?"
Your right... that seems impossible. But it's really simple actually - all He asks us for is our praise.
""Dynamic power is given to those who sincerely acknowledge God's power. God generously shares resources of omnipotence with devoted followers so that abundant life may be theirs.""
Dynamic power? Resources of omnipotence?? I have a hard time getting my feeble mind around what that would look like - but sure sounds like something I want. But you see - both of those statements have a catch - sincerely acknowledge God's power and become a devoted follower. Too often we forget our part and just stand there like a greedy child with our hands out - expecting something from Him while offering nothing in return.
So what is my part? Sincerely acknowledge... be a devoted follower. I'm afraid that is harder than it sounds.... But I have also learned that when we step towards Him - He runs to us ... He is waiting to help us... I know me. I know that I don't have it all together and will often stumble. But I know my God, my Abba Father, the Alpha and Omega, the Creator of Heaven and Earth, the Lover of my Soul, the Great I Am - is waiting to pick me up - and carry me if He has to - to see the work He has started in me to completion. "To bless God is to acknowledge gratefully what He is; but to bless men, God must make of him what he is not and give him what he has not."
"The more we learn about God, the more we understand the primary reason He asks us to surrender everything to Him is to make room to receive what He wants to give. Try as we may, we will never bring anything to God and leave empty handed - unless we forget to take His gifts home."
My blessing for you:
May you see, feel and know how truly and deeply loved you are - not only by others - but by your God, the Maker of Heaven and Earth. Trust in Him and He will be faithful to save you. Praise Him and you will be blessed. May God keep your heart set on pilgrimage until we reach our final destination - Home with Him for eternity.
We are asked on the last day of study what our fear is now that this journey comes to an end... mine? - That I will eat the seeds and not sow them - or allow them to be sowed into my furrowed back.
I so want to believe the prosperity preachers that say that God will give you everything you ask for. But diving into this study I am reminded that that is not true. God's giving is conditional.
That takes some people by surprise and they say, "How can that be? God is giving by nature... if He loves us then He wants to give us good things and make us happy."
Well, that is true - BUT... again it is all conditional.
"Wait. I thought we were not saved by our deeds but by grace. You're saying that we have to work for his love?"
Oh no... don't get me wrong - we are loved unconditionally... and are in fact saved by grace.... but His blessing - that is conditional.
"Oh jeez... so how many hours of service do I have to give? What do I have to sacrifice to be blessed?"
What we have to give is so small that it could never be called a sacrifice. But hours? He doesn't ask for hours - he asks for a lifetime.
"What could we possibly possess that could be of any value to the Creator of Heaven and earth?"
Your right... that seems impossible. But it's really simple actually - all He asks us for is our praise.
""Dynamic power is given to those who sincerely acknowledge God's power. God generously shares resources of omnipotence with devoted followers so that abundant life may be theirs.""
Dynamic power? Resources of omnipotence?? I have a hard time getting my feeble mind around what that would look like - but sure sounds like something I want. But you see - both of those statements have a catch - sincerely acknowledge God's power and become a devoted follower. Too often we forget our part and just stand there like a greedy child with our hands out - expecting something from Him while offering nothing in return.
So what is my part? Sincerely acknowledge... be a devoted follower. I'm afraid that is harder than it sounds.... But I have also learned that when we step towards Him - He runs to us ... He is waiting to help us... I know me. I know that I don't have it all together and will often stumble. But I know my God, my Abba Father, the Alpha and Omega, the Creator of Heaven and Earth, the Lover of my Soul, the Great I Am - is waiting to pick me up - and carry me if He has to - to see the work He has started in me to completion. "To bless God is to acknowledge gratefully what He is; but to bless men, God must make of him what he is not and give him what he has not."
"The more we learn about God, the more we understand the primary reason He asks us to surrender everything to Him is to make room to receive what He wants to give. Try as we may, we will never bring anything to God and leave empty handed - unless we forget to take His gifts home."
My blessing for you:
May you see, feel and know how truly and deeply loved you are - not only by others - but by your God, the Maker of Heaven and Earth. Trust in Him and He will be faithful to save you. Praise Him and you will be blessed. May God keep your heart set on pilgrimage until we reach our final destination - Home with Him for eternity.
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Lessons I'm Learning
Catching up on my weekly Bible study. Man I love Beth Moore. She is able to put things in a way that is so understandable. Thank you Lord for blessing her with that gift.
Several things really stood out to me on this weeks study.
Psalm 131: Referring to ourselves as a weaned child. Weaning back in that time usually happened around age 3. So a child of this age was able to walk on their own... taking steps into a direction they choose... but was also one who would return to the safety of their parent when it was time for rest. God's goal is not children scared into silence but those who trust their parent even with unanswered questions. Psalm 131 reminds us that the word of God is not primarily for seminaries, dissertations, and theological treatments. They are primarily for everyday living on the third rock from the sun. Her conclusion: Scripture is not for how you do church - it is for how you do life.
Lord, I am not you or like you. I am not great nor can I perform miracles. Instead I am like a young child beginning to make my way and taking my own steps but always returning to you for safety and love. I am at peace in your arms.
Psalm 132: David messed up big time. He relied on his own understanding instead of seeking God's divine wisdom. And he (well, his friend) paid for it. Suddenly God didn't "behave" like David thought He should. God did something that seemed out of character. Even terrifying. But through this and the decision that David made following this - David learned a big lesson. Obedience pays off. David then decided that he will not always understand God or his behavior - but he does not want to be apart from Him. David sought after God and asked Him to reside with him. David then learned that God cannot abide near you without blessing you.
Dear Lord, remember me and all of my suffering. I desire for you to dwell here - in my house - in my heart. I can not rest until you do. Allow this place to be a place that you rest and pour out your blessings but also a place where you show your strength. Let us do what is right. Let us sing for joy.
I pray that these are not lessons I have to learn the hard way.... that I can be smart enough to read the scripture and learn from the mistakes of the past.... and not destined to repeat them.
Anything you have learned lately that you would like to share?
Several things really stood out to me on this weeks study.
Psalm 131: Referring to ourselves as a weaned child. Weaning back in that time usually happened around age 3. So a child of this age was able to walk on their own... taking steps into a direction they choose... but was also one who would return to the safety of their parent when it was time for rest. God's goal is not children scared into silence but those who trust their parent even with unanswered questions. Psalm 131 reminds us that the word of God is not primarily for seminaries, dissertations, and theological treatments. They are primarily for everyday living on the third rock from the sun. Her conclusion: Scripture is not for how you do church - it is for how you do life.
Lord, I am not you or like you. I am not great nor can I perform miracles. Instead I am like a young child beginning to make my way and taking my own steps but always returning to you for safety and love. I am at peace in your arms.
Psalm 132: David messed up big time. He relied on his own understanding instead of seeking God's divine wisdom. And he (well, his friend) paid for it. Suddenly God didn't "behave" like David thought He should. God did something that seemed out of character. Even terrifying. But through this and the decision that David made following this - David learned a big lesson. Obedience pays off. David then decided that he will not always understand God or his behavior - but he does not want to be apart from Him. David sought after God and asked Him to reside with him. David then learned that God cannot abide near you without blessing you.
Dear Lord, remember me and all of my suffering. I desire for you to dwell here - in my house - in my heart. I can not rest until you do. Allow this place to be a place that you rest and pour out your blessings but also a place where you show your strength. Let us do what is right. Let us sing for joy.
I pray that these are not lessons I have to learn the hard way.... that I can be smart enough to read the scripture and learn from the mistakes of the past.... and not destined to repeat them.
Anything you have learned lately that you would like to share?
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Pondering the herd....
I have copied and pasted here a portion of a blog from Sandy at Refuge Farms. She compares and contrasts how a group of horses (a herd) and a group of people act ... as a group. I have included the people part here. Really interesting and thought provoking... if you would like to read more or check out how the horses treat each other - check out her blog at Refuge Farms.
We humans are not naturally curious adults. We are curious as children, but somewhere along the line we learn to doubt and mistrust and the curiosity is set aside for judgment and criticism and skepticism. We set expectations and if another human does not meet our expectations we have disappointment and anger toward them. We humans tend to shun the human who fails to meet our expectations. Or we simply withdraw and withhold our communications and interactions with that failing human that we have no faith in any longer.
We humans tend to create societies inside of the big society, thereby leaving some behind or outside of our inner circle. We leave some behind simply because they don’t fit with us or have failed us in some way and so we no longer go back to retrieve them. We let them stay behind to fend for themselves. And in our mini-societies, we tend to tell our fellow humans what they “should do” or “need to do” or “ought not to do”. We tend to be experts on the actions of others without always considering the footprints of the others.
We humans also tend to not move like fluid. Instead we tend to fend for ourselves and forget the power of mass and the force of many. We see change and fail to communicate. Usually, we resist change and strike out either with words or that withdrawal mechanism again. Sadly, we humans tend to not meet change as a group with open communication and respect for our leader. Once again, we end up standing alone to face expectations with an already slow start because we are alone and without the support and protection of our herd.
And we humans tend not to overextend ourselves to care for others. We tend to say you “must have some common sense about it” and we tend to leave some to die. Is it our faith that is weak? Or our conviction that is lacking? Or are we just too tired meeting all of those expectations set upon us? How can we turn our back on those who will suffer or die without us?
More than anything, I see we humans as an anxious lot. An unsatisfied lot. Not easy to please or easy to be or stay happy. We seem to want more than the sun on our shoulders and a decent meal with fresh water.
So.... let me know what you think... especially if you go and read the whole blog.
We humans are not naturally curious adults. We are curious as children, but somewhere along the line we learn to doubt and mistrust and the curiosity is set aside for judgment and criticism and skepticism. We set expectations and if another human does not meet our expectations we have disappointment and anger toward them. We humans tend to shun the human who fails to meet our expectations. Or we simply withdraw and withhold our communications and interactions with that failing human that we have no faith in any longer.
We humans tend to create societies inside of the big society, thereby leaving some behind or outside of our inner circle. We leave some behind simply because they don’t fit with us or have failed us in some way and so we no longer go back to retrieve them. We let them stay behind to fend for themselves. And in our mini-societies, we tend to tell our fellow humans what they “should do” or “need to do” or “ought not to do”. We tend to be experts on the actions of others without always considering the footprints of the others.
We humans also tend to not move like fluid. Instead we tend to fend for ourselves and forget the power of mass and the force of many. We see change and fail to communicate. Usually, we resist change and strike out either with words or that withdrawal mechanism again. Sadly, we humans tend to not meet change as a group with open communication and respect for our leader. Once again, we end up standing alone to face expectations with an already slow start because we are alone and without the support and protection of our herd.
And we humans tend not to overextend ourselves to care for others. We tend to say you “must have some common sense about it” and we tend to leave some to die. Is it our faith that is weak? Or our conviction that is lacking? Or are we just too tired meeting all of those expectations set upon us? How can we turn our back on those who will suffer or die without us?
More than anything, I see we humans as an anxious lot. An unsatisfied lot. Not easy to please or easy to be or stay happy. We seem to want more than the sun on our shoulders and a decent meal with fresh water.
So.... let me know what you think... especially if you go and read the whole blog.
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Et tu Brute?
I know there must be a lesson in here somewhere... but ....
Man I was burned up yesterday - not at how incredibly hot it was here or how that lady at the restaurant treated me.... but I absolutely can NOT stand being talked to like I am an idiot.
Probably because my mom does it to me... I just turned 40 and she still treats me like I am a child... and one with no sense at all. She asks me the dumbest questions... or she will ask my kids stuff like - did you eat dinner tonight? or have a bath? or did you have any fruit today - how about I get you an applesauce? Like I'm gonna say - "Awww I knew I was forgetting something!!" Yes mom - my kids have eaten... and no it's possible they don't bathe every day... if Jake happens to fall asleep - I'm not waking the kid up to bathe him! And I do have fruit and applesauce in my house nearly all the time... if they are hungry in between meals - I do suggest that... Yeah... I made the mistake of asking her one day if she thought I was a good mom.....
And then Christopher does it.... he often forgets that I'm the parent and quite a bit older than him and just might know a few things about the world and how it works. For example: we were talking about someone that he and I wanted to meet ... but we were told that he was not available that he had gone to an AA meeting. So, in the car I was making an observation (that he didn't let me finish) that hmmm... so he's an alcoholic... (and then I was going to say I find it odd that everyone else in the house had no trouble drinking while this man was off at an AA meeting)... but before I could get that out Christopher jumped all over me saying he is not an alcoholic .. he's been sober for 4 years. And I was trying to tell him that alcoholism is a disease that you fight for life (I guess since my dad died from it wasn't enough experience for him that I might know what I am talking about). Then he started singing some hymn about the blood of Jesus ... OK ... now you've just made me mad. He always does that. When he gets backed in a corner of an argument with me he starts saying that I am a bad Christian and being judgmental. First of all - we don't know if this man is saved (don't think so)... and 2nd of all if you ask even a saved Christian who was an alcoholic BC they will tell you they still are. (Yes, it is POSSIBLE - but not the norm.) If not, then why continue going to meetings (treatment), etc.? "He's not in treatment - he's just hanging out with friends." Geez... yes, they are friends - and they get together to talk about their struggles and to encourage each other. So this went on and on... round and round... until he said, "Fine whatever." ... just to shut me up. And occasionally Jake thinks he can do it.. the other day he argued with me about what street we lived on. It's not the arguing (although I don't like that either) - it's the condescending tone in the voice that really gets me with them.
MAJOR EDIT: I had a dear friend call me yesterday whom feelings I had hurt by my post - so I am editing what I have to say. It was NEVER my intention to hurt anyone else... just basically venting and explaining a point that sometimes I feel that I am surrounded by this.
My close friends used to tell me that I was doing too much. Every time it was said to me I felt like I was thought of as someone who didn't have enough sense to set her own limits. And I always wondered - how can they do that? I know they care, and this is where it's coming from but, my limits are not their limits... I know me. I have a different upbringing, different life, different family... different threshold - how can anyone say that they think that I can't handle anymore. Maybe they can't handle it - but I work best busy!
I am miserable with nothing to do. When I have little to do - I do nothing at all. When I am busy - I get it all done. Right now, I am sleeping too much, I am eating too much... I am not putting any energy into my bible study or the daily reading... I feel that I have nothing really going on - so I can do it later.... and I continue putting it off until it just doesn't get done. When I have a full schedule I get everything done because I know I don't have time later - so I don't put things off. Seriously if you don't know that I am happier busy then you don't really know me... I feel that I have proven myself over and over that I can organize, direct, teach..... so why are limits being put on me? If I'm not doing a good job then I should not be doing anything at all. Yes, I get tired - but it's that good tired ... from actually accomplishing something.
Like I said - this used to happen from my friends - but they got the message that it really bothers me. And they do indeed love me - so they have stopped doing it. But you know if something is said enough... then other people start believing it. And now I believe that others whom I deal with frequently in life, still believe it - and will set unnecessary limits on what I can do.
END MAJOR EDIT
But the icing on the cake was when John did it to me. Yesterday I ran into someone from his work. They were wearing a Wyotech shirt and I introduced myself. She turned out to be the Vice President of the company. She told me how much they loved him there... and I told her how much he loves his job. And then in conversation she said you might be getting a chance to see more of him in the near future because we are having to cut overtime - so he may be off weekends soon. And I told her that yes, that would be great for him not to have to work 56 hours a week - but that's just it: he has to for us to survive. We would not make it if his hours are cut. That a cut in hours would be fine if he made more money.... students are graduating and making more money than their instructor... and he is the lead but doesn't even make a full dollar more than the other instructors. He holds a ton of responsibility at that company and he is not adequately compensated for it. She said she agreed and she is working on it. So, I was on the phone telling John of this conversation... and he went off on me - "So, I guess now I should look for my weekends to be cut since you said I am working too much." What??? You seriously think I am an idiot that would do anything that would jeopardize your job??? Really??? Your gonna do this to me too??? I tried to explain that was not how the conversation went... and he just continued that because of me talking to her that he was going to lose hours. I just hung up.
So... what's the lesson here? What could I possibly need to learn through everyone talking to me like a child who doesn't have enough sense to come out of the rain? Do I do this to other people? Have I ever done this to you?
Man I was burned up yesterday - not at how incredibly hot it was here or how that lady at the restaurant treated me.... but I absolutely can NOT stand being talked to like I am an idiot.
Probably because my mom does it to me... I just turned 40 and she still treats me like I am a child... and one with no sense at all. She asks me the dumbest questions... or she will ask my kids stuff like - did you eat dinner tonight? or have a bath? or did you have any fruit today - how about I get you an applesauce? Like I'm gonna say - "Awww I knew I was forgetting something!!" Yes mom - my kids have eaten... and no it's possible they don't bathe every day... if Jake happens to fall asleep - I'm not waking the kid up to bathe him! And I do have fruit and applesauce in my house nearly all the time... if they are hungry in between meals - I do suggest that... Yeah... I made the mistake of asking her one day if she thought I was a good mom.....
And then Christopher does it.... he often forgets that I'm the parent and quite a bit older than him and just might know a few things about the world and how it works. For example: we were talking about someone that he and I wanted to meet ... but we were told that he was not available that he had gone to an AA meeting. So, in the car I was making an observation (that he didn't let me finish) that hmmm... so he's an alcoholic... (and then I was going to say I find it odd that everyone else in the house had no trouble drinking while this man was off at an AA meeting)... but before I could get that out Christopher jumped all over me saying he is not an alcoholic .. he's been sober for 4 years. And I was trying to tell him that alcoholism is a disease that you fight for life (I guess since my dad died from it wasn't enough experience for him that I might know what I am talking about). Then he started singing some hymn about the blood of Jesus ... OK ... now you've just made me mad. He always does that. When he gets backed in a corner of an argument with me he starts saying that I am a bad Christian and being judgmental. First of all - we don't know if this man is saved (don't think so)... and 2nd of all if you ask even a saved Christian who was an alcoholic BC they will tell you they still are. (Yes, it is POSSIBLE - but not the norm.) If not, then why continue going to meetings (treatment), etc.? "He's not in treatment - he's just hanging out with friends." Geez... yes, they are friends - and they get together to talk about their struggles and to encourage each other. So this went on and on... round and round... until he said, "Fine whatever." ... just to shut me up. And occasionally Jake thinks he can do it.. the other day he argued with me about what street we lived on. It's not the arguing (although I don't like that either) - it's the condescending tone in the voice that really gets me with them.
MAJOR EDIT: I had a dear friend call me yesterday whom feelings I had hurt by my post - so I am editing what I have to say. It was NEVER my intention to hurt anyone else... just basically venting and explaining a point that sometimes I feel that I am surrounded by this.
My close friends used to tell me that I was doing too much. Every time it was said to me I felt like I was thought of as someone who didn't have enough sense to set her own limits. And I always wondered - how can they do that? I know they care, and this is where it's coming from but, my limits are not their limits... I know me. I have a different upbringing, different life, different family... different threshold - how can anyone say that they think that I can't handle anymore. Maybe they can't handle it - but I work best busy!
I am miserable with nothing to do. When I have little to do - I do nothing at all. When I am busy - I get it all done. Right now, I am sleeping too much, I am eating too much... I am not putting any energy into my bible study or the daily reading... I feel that I have nothing really going on - so I can do it later.... and I continue putting it off until it just doesn't get done. When I have a full schedule I get everything done because I know I don't have time later - so I don't put things off. Seriously if you don't know that I am happier busy then you don't really know me... I feel that I have proven myself over and over that I can organize, direct, teach..... so why are limits being put on me? If I'm not doing a good job then I should not be doing anything at all. Yes, I get tired - but it's that good tired ... from actually accomplishing something.
Like I said - this used to happen from my friends - but they got the message that it really bothers me. And they do indeed love me - so they have stopped doing it. But you know if something is said enough... then other people start believing it. And now I believe that others whom I deal with frequently in life, still believe it - and will set unnecessary limits on what I can do.
END MAJOR EDIT
But the icing on the cake was when John did it to me. Yesterday I ran into someone from his work. They were wearing a Wyotech shirt and I introduced myself. She turned out to be the Vice President of the company. She told me how much they loved him there... and I told her how much he loves his job. And then in conversation she said you might be getting a chance to see more of him in the near future because we are having to cut overtime - so he may be off weekends soon. And I told her that yes, that would be great for him not to have to work 56 hours a week - but that's just it: he has to for us to survive. We would not make it if his hours are cut. That a cut in hours would be fine if he made more money.... students are graduating and making more money than their instructor... and he is the lead but doesn't even make a full dollar more than the other instructors. He holds a ton of responsibility at that company and he is not adequately compensated for it. She said she agreed and she is working on it. So, I was on the phone telling John of this conversation... and he went off on me - "So, I guess now I should look for my weekends to be cut since you said I am working too much." What??? You seriously think I am an idiot that would do anything that would jeopardize your job??? Really??? Your gonna do this to me too??? I tried to explain that was not how the conversation went... and he just continued that because of me talking to her that he was going to lose hours. I just hung up.
So... what's the lesson here? What could I possibly need to learn through everyone talking to me like a child who doesn't have enough sense to come out of the rain? Do I do this to other people? Have I ever done this to you?
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Habits Don't Form Overnight
I wrote about this once before - back on May 1st. = I think we have a conclusion...
Jake has been having Night Terrors for the last 2 months. He has been waking up in the middle of the night - eyes wide open but not awake - screaming at the top of his lungs about snakes, bugs or other creepy crawlers all over him and his bed. He has no fear during the day - remembers very little of what happened the night before and goes to bed the next night with no problems. But night after night, there is something attacking him.
I finally told Pastor John about the Night Terrors on Sunday. He prayed for Jake a very short and simple prayer that God would take these fears away. That night when going to bed, John said to Jake, "Good night buddy, I hope you don't have any bad dreams tonight."
Jake replied, "I won't. Pastor John prayed for me." Ahhhh ... the faith of a child. If we could all be like that. He went to bed with no fear that night - in fact he kinda strided off to bed with confidence - and had his first full night of sleep in over 2 months. And... he had another last night. Yes - praise be to God.
I have been questioning God lately... about these terrors... about how my mom could be sick and in the hospital on Christopher's graduation day... Questioning His timing...
And then on Sunday - we were singing "He Reigns"
Jake has been having Night Terrors for the last 2 months. He has been waking up in the middle of the night - eyes wide open but not awake - screaming at the top of his lungs about snakes, bugs or other creepy crawlers all over him and his bed. He has no fear during the day - remembers very little of what happened the night before and goes to bed the next night with no problems. But night after night, there is something attacking him.
I finally told Pastor John about the Night Terrors on Sunday. He prayed for Jake a very short and simple prayer that God would take these fears away. That night when going to bed, John said to Jake, "Good night buddy, I hope you don't have any bad dreams tonight."
Jake replied, "I won't. Pastor John prayed for me." Ahhhh ... the faith of a child. If we could all be like that. He went to bed with no fear that night - in fact he kinda strided off to bed with confidence - and had his first full night of sleep in over 2 months. And... he had another last night. Yes - praise be to God.
I have been questioning God lately... about these terrors... about how my mom could be sick and in the hospital on Christopher's graduation day... Questioning His timing...
And then on Sunday - we were singing "He Reigns"
Our God
Is an awesome God
He reigns from heaven above
With wisdom, power and love
Our God is an awesome God
Our God is an awesome God
Is an awesome God
He reigns from heaven above
With wisdom, power and love
Our God is an awesome God
Our God is an awesome God
When I hit that word - wisdom... He reigns with wisdom.... I had to hang my head and ask for forgiveness. How could I possibly question Him - the Creator of Heaven and Earth? How could I possibly question His wisdom???
And in His infinite wisdom... I believe I have been able to see just why these night terrors have been happening. First I must say that I have researched the night terrors - and although they are horrific for the parents - the children rarely have any recollection of what happened and have no lasting effects.
But what it has done has create a prayer life for Jake. It has given Jake a reason to seek Him nightly... to draw Jake closer to Him... to cause Jake to want to call out to Him. Because God knows that habits don't form over night - they take time.. this has established a pattern for Jake of nightly prayer.... and not just because mom says he should... but a relationship all his own.... If that is His reason for the night terrors - then I am eternally grateful.
And in His infinite wisdom... I believe I have been able to see just why these night terrors have been happening. First I must say that I have researched the night terrors - and although they are horrific for the parents - the children rarely have any recollection of what happened and have no lasting effects.
But what it has done has create a prayer life for Jake. It has given Jake a reason to seek Him nightly... to draw Jake closer to Him... to cause Jake to want to call out to Him. Because God knows that habits don't form over night - they take time.. this has established a pattern for Jake of nightly prayer.... and not just because mom says he should... but a relationship all his own.... If that is His reason for the night terrors - then I am eternally grateful.
Sunday, June 8, 2008
Who Can Be Against Me?
I have a busy week ahead so I decided that I better get my homework done while I had the chance. So - I finished ... well, probably not early - but I'm not doing it all on Wednesday right before our meeting time ... so early to me.
And wow - day 5. Maybe this will be a spoiler to some - so don't finish reading until you are done if you think so....
Paraphrasing greatly:
"Regardless of how long we've been Christian and how deeply we've studied God's Word, most of us don't really believe down in the marrow of our bones that God is entirely, wholeheartedly, and unwaveringly on our side. We are secretly convinced that although He had high hopes for His creation - we have proved to be a terrible disappointment but because he is faithful to His covenant, He is obligated to put up with us."
Yep - I've thought that... like now - God we are faithful tithers, why are we having money problems??
Throughout the study we were asked to reflect on the many times that we know would not have worked out had God NOT been on our side.
There are so many... I am blown away. Let's begin with the life that I was living back in Texas... let's just say - "I was looking for love in all the wrong places." So many dangerous situations that I put myself into - that I know HE got me out of. There is no other way that I could have afforded to move here - had it not been for God stepping in and having the company I was going to work for pay for my entire trip. My marriage seemed destined for failure - but now I have a marriage that fairy tales were written about. And then there is my son Christopher.... not only did Satan try to take him away spiritually - but then physically... and within months of each other. God not only turned a lawyer against his own client but baffled a team of doctors!
"Christ will never take us into a battle we can not win. We would have to choose defeat against our new nature. He gazes beneath our sin into the brokenness that causes us to devalue ourselves so thoroughly. He is the ultimate Prince Charming to every woman, especially the one who forgot she was Cinderella."
And then we were asked to rewrite Romans 8:28-39 as personal statements from God to us - as I Will statements.
Here's mine:
My child Cassandra,
I will make sure all things work together for your good.
I will give you all things.
I will make you like my Son.
I will glorify you.
I will give you full victory.
I will never leave you.
Love, God
So now as I battle the fear of my dear son growing up and leaving.... I have to remind myself: That He is His God too - and if He is on his side, then who can be against him?
And wow - day 5. Maybe this will be a spoiler to some - so don't finish reading until you are done if you think so....
Paraphrasing greatly:
"Regardless of how long we've been Christian and how deeply we've studied God's Word, most of us don't really believe down in the marrow of our bones that God is entirely, wholeheartedly, and unwaveringly on our side. We are secretly convinced that although He had high hopes for His creation - we have proved to be a terrible disappointment but because he is faithful to His covenant, He is obligated to put up with us."
Yep - I've thought that... like now - God we are faithful tithers, why are we having money problems??
Throughout the study we were asked to reflect on the many times that we know would not have worked out had God NOT been on our side.
There are so many... I am blown away. Let's begin with the life that I was living back in Texas... let's just say - "I was looking for love in all the wrong places." So many dangerous situations that I put myself into - that I know HE got me out of. There is no other way that I could have afforded to move here - had it not been for God stepping in and having the company I was going to work for pay for my entire trip. My marriage seemed destined for failure - but now I have a marriage that fairy tales were written about. And then there is my son Christopher.... not only did Satan try to take him away spiritually - but then physically... and within months of each other. God not only turned a lawyer against his own client but baffled a team of doctors!
"Christ will never take us into a battle we can not win. We would have to choose defeat against our new nature. He gazes beneath our sin into the brokenness that causes us to devalue ourselves so thoroughly. He is the ultimate Prince Charming to every woman, especially the one who forgot she was Cinderella."
And then we were asked to rewrite Romans 8:28-39 as personal statements from God to us - as I Will statements.
Here's mine:
My child Cassandra,
I will make sure all things work together for your good.
I will give you all things.
I will make you like my Son.
I will glorify you.
I will give you full victory.
I will never leave you.
Love, God
So now as I battle the fear of my dear son growing up and leaving.... I have to remind myself: That He is His God too - and if He is on his side, then who can be against him?
Friday, June 6, 2008
Exercising... UGGH...
I am impressed with my friends and their recent weight losses. But I guess not impressed enough to get my butt moving and do the same... sigh...
Maybe if I had this??? But I guess it won't work unless you have the game system to go with it.
Dang.... where are my walking shoes anyway? The hills of San Pedro seem to be calling...
Maybe if I had this??? But I guess it won't work unless you have the game system to go with it.
Dang.... where are my walking shoes anyway? The hills of San Pedro seem to be calling...
Monday, June 2, 2008
Maxine
Maxine created a blog of her own. I highly recommend you checking it out... funny, funny stuff. Plus I guess they figured out that I was "borrowing" the daily comic from their site - and they put a stop to that. So if you have gotten hooked on a daily dose of Maxine funnies... check her out on her own site.
Her last blog was about Hilarious Science Fair Experiments... oh my - why would people EVER dress their kids like that??? OR let their kids do a science experiment on moon babies... or how about "Who's your Daddy? = Year 2"? Oh my....
Her last blog was about Hilarious Science Fair Experiments... oh my - why would people EVER dress their kids like that??? OR let their kids do a science experiment on moon babies... or how about "Who's your Daddy? = Year 2"? Oh my....
Friday, May 30, 2008
Decisions... Decisions...
Well... where to begin ...
We will start with my good friend Nicky giving me the book - The Bait of Satan. I have been wanting to read the book for a while now ... the title is catchy and I was intrigued to find out just what the bait is. And as God's timing is always perfect - the book was handed over to me just at the right time.... just as I was playing around with the bait... nibbling on the bait... thinking very seriously of biting. But - since I had not read the book or found out what the bait was - I had no idea that that was what I was doing. I was seeking wise counsel... it didn't sound right - but it sounded righteous.
So, I get the book ... and then right on the cover it says what the bait is. Being Offended. Uggghhh. I no longer wanted to read the book. But I have begun... and wouldn't you know it - not one but 2 chapters on the very offense I have been dealing with.
Uggh again!!! Man this meat is tough to chew!!! But I have decided... that no matter how good the bait looks and maybe even tastes - I will not bite. Furthermore, I will prosper where I am planted. Just read this great line today: "Trees endure the hot sun and rainstorms by sending their roots down deeper." It doesn't say they pull up their roots and run... it doesn't cry or weep or moan... or bash another tree down ... or even hide behind another tree.... it simply says it stands in it's place and sends its roots down deeper.
I have been seeking God ... over an over about all of this... and was getting nothing. The book actually talked about that as well - that that most likely means that He wants you to DO nothing. You know nothing is not easy for me to do ... but since I decided to let it go - a huge weight was lifted and joy returned. Really what else could I do? I let my opinion be known... but after that, what really can I do about it? Submission is really a good feeling...
So, there is #1....
#2 - Since someone in Texas will soon be receiving their financial freedom (oh wait, was that biting the bait?) .. Let me rephrase that ... since our income will be lessened soon by the loss of child support income .... and we are already strapped for money.... and the phone will NOT stop ringing... and I can not possibly ask my husband to work any more hours (he would - but it's simply not possible since he already works 66 hours a week)... I must get an additional job. We have been talking at the church about the possibility of opening up a daycare center - the need is great. It would be a perfect job for me - one that enables me to continue to homeschool Jake in the fall like I want. I have been looking into the requirements .... oh geez the red tape you have to go through.... certifications... inspections.... conferences... paperwork, paperwork, paperwork... It's all doable ... but it all takes time. Open without doing all of that and it's a $200 a day fine. So, if that happens it will not be overnight.
I ran into Yvonne (our fabulous Pampered Chef lady) the other day... and we were talking... and I do know she makes money at what she does while still being around for her kids.. so I have decided to sign up. Yep.... I'm your new Pampered Chef consultant.... I labored over the decision... Carol just recently signed up - would we be competing for people??? Would anyone want me instead of Yvonne??? I don't know the answer to either of those questions... but I have to do something to bring in money. I do love the product... should be easier to sell than candles...
So, there is #2....
There is other stuff going on ... that is really fighting to steal the joy that I just received... honestly, the bait was presented like an hour later after I had made decision #1. GRRRRRR..... dang satan.... (spell check says I should capitalize that.. I don't think so) But thank you Jesus... I think it is working out... this one regards the soon to be 18 yr old and the family in Texas that is trying to tell him that he no longer needs to be under my authority... (and then attempted to give me parenting advise.) He swears he is telling them that is not right - that he does and is under my authority as long as he lives here.... but I don't know.... I think I'm gonna let John deal with this one.
We will start with my good friend Nicky giving me the book - The Bait of Satan. I have been wanting to read the book for a while now ... the title is catchy and I was intrigued to find out just what the bait is. And as God's timing is always perfect - the book was handed over to me just at the right time.... just as I was playing around with the bait... nibbling on the bait... thinking very seriously of biting. But - since I had not read the book or found out what the bait was - I had no idea that that was what I was doing. I was seeking wise counsel... it didn't sound right - but it sounded righteous.
So, I get the book ... and then right on the cover it says what the bait is. Being Offended. Uggghhh. I no longer wanted to read the book. But I have begun... and wouldn't you know it - not one but 2 chapters on the very offense I have been dealing with.
Uggh again!!! Man this meat is tough to chew!!! But I have decided... that no matter how good the bait looks and maybe even tastes - I will not bite. Furthermore, I will prosper where I am planted. Just read this great line today: "Trees endure the hot sun and rainstorms by sending their roots down deeper." It doesn't say they pull up their roots and run... it doesn't cry or weep or moan... or bash another tree down ... or even hide behind another tree.... it simply says it stands in it's place and sends its roots down deeper.
I have been seeking God ... over an over about all of this... and was getting nothing. The book actually talked about that as well - that that most likely means that He wants you to DO nothing. You know nothing is not easy for me to do ... but since I decided to let it go - a huge weight was lifted and joy returned. Really what else could I do? I let my opinion be known... but after that, what really can I do about it? Submission is really a good feeling...
So, there is #1....
#2 - Since someone in Texas will soon be receiving their financial freedom (oh wait, was that biting the bait?) .. Let me rephrase that ... since our income will be lessened soon by the loss of child support income .... and we are already strapped for money.... and the phone will NOT stop ringing... and I can not possibly ask my husband to work any more hours (he would - but it's simply not possible since he already works 66 hours a week)... I must get an additional job. We have been talking at the church about the possibility of opening up a daycare center - the need is great. It would be a perfect job for me - one that enables me to continue to homeschool Jake in the fall like I want. I have been looking into the requirements .... oh geez the red tape you have to go through.... certifications... inspections.... conferences... paperwork, paperwork, paperwork... It's all doable ... but it all takes time. Open without doing all of that and it's a $200 a day fine. So, if that happens it will not be overnight.
I ran into Yvonne (our fabulous Pampered Chef lady) the other day... and we were talking... and I do know she makes money at what she does while still being around for her kids.. so I have decided to sign up. Yep.... I'm your new Pampered Chef consultant.... I labored over the decision... Carol just recently signed up - would we be competing for people??? Would anyone want me instead of Yvonne??? I don't know the answer to either of those questions... but I have to do something to bring in money. I do love the product... should be easier to sell than candles...
So, there is #2....
There is other stuff going on ... that is really fighting to steal the joy that I just received... honestly, the bait was presented like an hour later after I had made decision #1. GRRRRRR..... dang satan.... (spell check says I should capitalize that.. I don't think so) But thank you Jesus... I think it is working out... this one regards the soon to be 18 yr old and the family in Texas that is trying to tell him that he no longer needs to be under my authority... (and then attempted to give me parenting advise.) He swears he is telling them that is not right - that he does and is under my authority as long as he lives here.... but I don't know.... I think I'm gonna let John deal with this one.
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