the Blacksmith is God
Iron is my faith
Fire is my suffering
Shaping is my growth
Forge is the waiting
''Waiting'' by Ben Patterson
Wednesday, April 04, 2007
my forge ...
Ahhhh, to open a book that I have read in the past, to find notes jotted down, to find words underlined just for my future self to come back to and find nurishment again...
''Waiting'' by Ben Patterson
''Waiting'' by Ben Patterson
Quinoa!!!
It is funny how you can go about your life thinking you know all there is about food. Well, at least the basics. It is also amazing how your brain searches for substitutes. I can now add Quinoa to my list.
I have never heard of this before but on Saturday a cook was using it in her passover meal. Then I happened to find it at the local grocery. So I decided to see if it had been on the list of what they tested for my food allergies and found it was safe. I had to find out more about this mystery food.
It is a seed but it is an excellent alternative to white rice and I can prepare it in the rice cooker that I had bought and now was deciding if I should throw out. I will have to try it in my stir fry! It also says you can toast it in a pan like a granola! There is quinoa flour toooooo! Hmmm, will have to try it in my baking...
I am putting it on my grocery list.
A whole new world out there!
I have never heard of this before but on Saturday a cook was using it in her passover meal. Then I happened to find it at the local grocery. So I decided to see if it had been on the list of what they tested for my food allergies and found it was safe. I had to find out more about this mystery food.
It is a seed but it is an excellent alternative to white rice and I can prepare it in the rice cooker that I had bought and now was deciding if I should throw out. I will have to try it in my stir fry! It also says you can toast it in a pan like a granola! There is quinoa flour toooooo! Hmmm, will have to try it in my baking...
I am putting it on my grocery list.
A whole new world out there!
Sunday, April 01, 2007
moving in!
I got new neighbors!!!! There is always a sense of dread when there is the changing of the guard but not this one. I've been watching them move in and they sing most beautifully! Yes, they sing while they work! When I hear the beautiful chords I rush to the window and am rewarded with their scurry.
I live on the top floor and there is this bush that has finally reached my window. It is a great flat for my fine feathered friends. I think they are fenches. She is grey and he is grey with red. Yesturday it seemed that she was figuring out the layout and today she brought in some bedding. They seem to work together as I saw them leave together in flight last night. What a joy to watch. How expectant is my heart as they nest! New babies to come! I hope I get to see them eat and sing and take their first flight!
Thank You, most Beautiful Creator! I am super excited a this beautiful gift of life and of joy! How Spring like! How God-like! Oh, so true. Earth is crammed with the stuff of Heaven!! Thank You for 'expecting' and the mystery!
I live on the top floor and there is this bush that has finally reached my window. It is a great flat for my fine feathered friends. I think they are fenches. She is grey and he is grey with red. Yesturday it seemed that she was figuring out the layout and today she brought in some bedding. They seem to work together as I saw them leave together in flight last night. What a joy to watch. How expectant is my heart as they nest! New babies to come! I hope I get to see them eat and sing and take their first flight!
Thank You, most Beautiful Creator! I am super excited a this beautiful gift of life and of joy! How Spring like! How God-like! Oh, so true. Earth is crammed with the stuff of Heaven!! Thank You for 'expecting' and the mystery!
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
etiquette ...
“Would you have a baby shower for me?” He asked his sister.
Baby showers are given by the new mother-to-be’s friend much similar as with a wedding shower.
”Here is list of 47 people we would like to have at our baby shower.”
Whoa! Way toooooo long! Remember the food costs. Invitation costs. Stamp costs. If you send out RSVP’s, there is an additional cost of the stamp provided. Where will people sit and will they be comfortable?
”We want to invite our co-workers, people from church, and the girls at her hair place.”
These people tend to have showers for you. They know you are having a baby and if there is no shower and they want to give you a gift, they will.
”I am going to invite her co-workers over.”
Uh no! What is your real intent? For them to come over and have fun or for them to give you presents? Even if your intent is good, the behavior screams ‘give me, give me.’ A baby shower is a gift in itself.
“I am going to have her ask the church ladies to have a shower for us.”
Good luck at pulling that off with out looking like your hand is out! Shame on you!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This is mainly a warning for the twenty-somethings to watch out for their wants and going online for proof that the way you go about getting what they want is ok. The web will prove that any behavior is ok. There is something quite wrong with the generation coming and how they tackle their wants. I saw this as I was researching baby shower etiquette.
First I was floored by the questions and behaviors asked of her. And then to search the web for the correct etiquette was another shock. I could prove all the above using the web. My gut was saying no way. I yelling stick with ‘old paths.’
The list is down to a more manageable number. He can no longer tell her how to run the show. It is hers now and is suppose to be a gift.
I have no clue why these notions are in his head. They were born of the same family but a generation apart. She was not born in the midst of the web age and he was. I think this is where the fault line runs. New generations what new paths. They want new ideas. Each new generation goes through that but they do come to realize that old paths are old and worn because it works.
God Provides … not man … and definitely not when man strives so hard…
Baby showers are given by the new mother-to-be’s friend much similar as with a wedding shower.
”Here is list of 47 people we would like to have at our baby shower.”
Whoa! Way toooooo long! Remember the food costs. Invitation costs. Stamp costs. If you send out RSVP’s, there is an additional cost of the stamp provided. Where will people sit and will they be comfortable?
”We want to invite our co-workers, people from church, and the girls at her hair place.”
These people tend to have showers for you. They know you are having a baby and if there is no shower and they want to give you a gift, they will.
”I am going to invite her co-workers over.”
Uh no! What is your real intent? For them to come over and have fun or for them to give you presents? Even if your intent is good, the behavior screams ‘give me, give me.’ A baby shower is a gift in itself.
“I am going to have her ask the church ladies to have a shower for us.”
Good luck at pulling that off with out looking like your hand is out! Shame on you!
This is mainly a warning for the twenty-somethings to watch out for their wants and going online for proof that the way you go about getting what they want is ok. The web will prove that any behavior is ok. There is something quite wrong with the generation coming and how they tackle their wants. I saw this as I was researching baby shower etiquette.
First I was floored by the questions and behaviors asked of her. And then to search the web for the correct etiquette was another shock. I could prove all the above using the web. My gut was saying no way. I yelling stick with ‘old paths.’
The list is down to a more manageable number. He can no longer tell her how to run the show. It is hers now and is suppose to be a gift.
I have no clue why these notions are in his head. They were born of the same family but a generation apart. She was not born in the midst of the web age and he was. I think this is where the fault line runs. New generations what new paths. They want new ideas. Each new generation goes through that but they do come to realize that old paths are old and worn because it works.
God Provides … not man … and definitely not when man strives so hard…
Stand at the crossroads & look
ask for the ancient paths,
ask where the good way is & walk in it
& you will find rest for your souls.
~Jeremiah 6:16
Monday, March 26, 2007
picking up & leaving out ...
“Why can’t we pick up where we left off? I always have to start at the beginning with you,” he said.
“I am not the same person as I was yesterday or the day before. I don’t like long distances of time if this is to be an important or deep friendship. I am always grasping for new knowledge. I get excited about new things whether it is as simple as a morning sunrise that had me in awe or if I finally cracked open a tiny bit of a mystery I am experiencing. I like to tell someone. I like to tell someone who is knows me and knows my journey, someone who ENJOYS that excitement in me over silly new things. Time off pours over the depth we have. My soul interrupts it as you not trusting me with your everyday. So the internal dialogue says, ‘Keep it to yourself.’ That is why I treat this relationship as if we are beginning,” she said in frustration.
“Wait a sec! I still don’t understand. Aren’t we good friends? We have depth. I share with you things I wouldn’t share with another,” he said with a intensity.
“To me there has to be a long friendship before I can just pick up where I left off. I have a high school friend and several college friends where I can just pick up where I left off. Each of those friends has 4 years at the very least of constant friendship. I can pick up where I left off because time and space have relocated their lives to different parts of the world. I still have to back track to get some of their story but we always have the memories to hold us together. I am sure they have changed a ton but we are comfortable. With you the time is too short. There are no memories to hold us together,” she explains.
“So you don’t trust me?” His voice goes deeper.
“I trust you but not like I would the friendships I have had for a long period of time. They have had the time to test them. They are proven. I know where I stand and I am comfortable with the flow of give and take,” she replies.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This friendship ended. They were too different. She never really felt comfortable spiritually. She felt like she was talking a different language. He could never understand. The ‘different language’ was an important step for her to grasp but for right now I think there is another learning here.
I see time as an important element of trust and even depth. Even knowing how to pace myself at the beginning of a relationship can have a huge effect on trust in a relationship.
I have a bad habit to jumping in with a ton of gusto. I like to get the nitty gritty. My ears pick up ‘long distance talk’ only to find out later there wasn’t much nor could there be much depth to it. They might have meant it well but it just could not be.
I am learning how to build the trust I need. I don’t believe in ‘seasons’ more on that later- one quickie here, if you believe friends come for a season and then over, aren't you setting it up to fail?) , rather I believe I have set relationships up for failure because I did not lay down a way for trust to come inside like installation for a house. I keep talking trust because I have a bad habit of not being able to say what I am really feeling. I know that is an issue. Not ready to deal with it yet because I don’t know how I am going to speak up for myself when I am ultra sensitive about ‘rudeness’ or ‘bossiness’. Exact words are how do you speak up for yourself when it runs the risk of telling someone how to feel or how to see things or tells them to back off or tells them to get lost or I need air. I have had too many losses in friendship department. I am tired of ‘fighting’ and having the other person all up in my tail feathers about how wrong I am for standing up about a problem or upset at me at pointing to an issue. It isn’t about who is right or wrong. IT IS AN ISSUE ABOUT HOW STRONG YOU WANT A RELATIONSHIP! Backing out gracefully seemed to be the right way, until they got all up in my tail feathers again! I cannot win. Again it comes to trust and HOW STRONG YOU WANT A RELATIONSHIP. I cannot shake that trust thing... must be something there...
I would have rather said that I have enough ‘pick-up-where-you-left-friendships’ and that I am at a point in my life where I need a deep, meaningful, valued friendship, but as I am writing out or more exactly clearing up my thoughts, I see a path opening up for me. I will keep writing more here. I am learning more about myself. I just might learn how to be a good friend to myself as well as others. In time though…
“I am not the same person as I was yesterday or the day before. I don’t like long distances of time if this is to be an important or deep friendship. I am always grasping for new knowledge. I get excited about new things whether it is as simple as a morning sunrise that had me in awe or if I finally cracked open a tiny bit of a mystery I am experiencing. I like to tell someone. I like to tell someone who is knows me and knows my journey, someone who ENJOYS that excitement in me over silly new things. Time off pours over the depth we have. My soul interrupts it as you not trusting me with your everyday. So the internal dialogue says, ‘Keep it to yourself.’ That is why I treat this relationship as if we are beginning,” she said in frustration.
“Wait a sec! I still don’t understand. Aren’t we good friends? We have depth. I share with you things I wouldn’t share with another,” he said with a intensity.
“To me there has to be a long friendship before I can just pick up where I left off. I have a high school friend and several college friends where I can just pick up where I left off. Each of those friends has 4 years at the very least of constant friendship. I can pick up where I left off because time and space have relocated their lives to different parts of the world. I still have to back track to get some of their story but we always have the memories to hold us together. I am sure they have changed a ton but we are comfortable. With you the time is too short. There are no memories to hold us together,” she explains.
“So you don’t trust me?” His voice goes deeper.
“I trust you but not like I would the friendships I have had for a long period of time. They have had the time to test them. They are proven. I know where I stand and I am comfortable with the flow of give and take,” she replies.
This friendship ended. They were too different. She never really felt comfortable spiritually. She felt like she was talking a different language. He could never understand. The ‘different language’ was an important step for her to grasp but for right now I think there is another learning here.
I see time as an important element of trust and even depth. Even knowing how to pace myself at the beginning of a relationship can have a huge effect on trust in a relationship.
I have a bad habit to jumping in with a ton of gusto. I like to get the nitty gritty. My ears pick up ‘long distance talk’ only to find out later there wasn’t much nor could there be much depth to it. They might have meant it well but it just could not be.
I am learning how to build the trust I need. I don’t believe in ‘seasons’ more on that later- one quickie here, if you believe friends come for a season and then over, aren't you setting it up to fail?) , rather I believe I have set relationships up for failure because I did not lay down a way for trust to come inside like installation for a house. I keep talking trust because I have a bad habit of not being able to say what I am really feeling. I know that is an issue. Not ready to deal with it yet because I don’t know how I am going to speak up for myself when I am ultra sensitive about ‘rudeness’ or ‘bossiness’. Exact words are how do you speak up for yourself when it runs the risk of telling someone how to feel or how to see things or tells them to back off or tells them to get lost or I need air. I have had too many losses in friendship department. I am tired of ‘fighting’ and having the other person all up in my tail feathers about how wrong I am for standing up about a problem or upset at me at pointing to an issue. It isn’t about who is right or wrong. IT IS AN ISSUE ABOUT HOW STRONG YOU WANT A RELATIONSHIP! Backing out gracefully seemed to be the right way, until they got all up in my tail feathers again! I cannot win. Again it comes to trust and HOW STRONG YOU WANT A RELATIONSHIP. I cannot shake that trust thing... must be something there...
I would have rather said that I have enough ‘pick-up-where-you-left-friendships’ and that I am at a point in my life where I need a deep, meaningful, valued friendship, but as I am writing out or more exactly clearing up my thoughts, I see a path opening up for me. I will keep writing more here. I am learning more about myself. I just might learn how to be a good friend to myself as well as others. In time though…
Sunday, March 25, 2007
plugging ears ...
Matthew 5
I was viewing a social experiment where a group of guys would have to get rid of one. The Loud-Mouth was at it again tearing verbally at the Quiet-Guy. Calling him a girl and yelling about how the Quiet-Guy couldn't stand up and defind himself. It was horrid watching the last match. All the other guys faces were of disbelief as the Loud-Mouth continue to cut and hack away on the spirit of the Quiet-Guy. The Quiet-Guy in a last ditch effort did defend himself only when he could get a word in edge wise. To my disgust is not just the Loud-Mouth but all the other Not-Going-to-Say-Anything-or-Defend guys kicked the Quiet-Guy out of their group.
Hot tears and furry. All that matters is how well you can beat on your chest and stand up to others. This isn't just in the workplace but has trickled down to the very relationships you try to keep. My biggest pet peeve is how others even so called friends will put words in your mouth or tell you what to do or how to think or how to feel. These are all traits of the Loud-Mouth. All mouth and no ears.
I have been accused of beating around the bush. I have been accused of not really saying what I meant to say by having the so called 'real answer' put in my mouth. {spit spit} I have been beaten down time and time again by the rudeness of others so much so that I am super sensitive to the abuse. I have tried to use 'I statements' when I do try to stand up for a breaking relationship. What I have gotten back have been 'you statements'.
The meek will inherit the earth. The poor in spirit will have the Kingdom of Heaven. Don't give pearls to pigs. Guard your wellspring. Whew! Is it so hard to stop and listen? especially to the Quiet-Guy or the Quiet-Girl? They just might have something pretty special to share with you. They might have an interesting story. They might stand firm when others flee.
They seem weak. They seem to give up the fight. They seem useless. Maybe they are the strong ones because they have lived alone and are not afraid. It is said that they will inherit the earth. Maybe they aren't giving up the fight, maybe they are using their head and know it isn't worth it. Maybe they are the most valueable. It is said they will have the Kingdom of Heaven.
Have I been loud? Have I used a 'you statement'? Have I let my fire get the best of my tongue? Do I move away and be quiet? or do I stay and fight with all the 'I statements'? How do you stand up for yourself and listen too? Isn't it contradictory?
I am back to square one. I am just trying to find the boundaries. I am trying to find the right and the wrongs. No clue. I have failed over and over because when you push a Quiet too far, the Loud will come out most hateful. It is a very delicate balance. No wonder they will back away trying to leave everything peaceful instead of raging...
I was viewing a social experiment where a group of guys would have to get rid of one. The Loud-Mouth was at it again tearing verbally at the Quiet-Guy. Calling him a girl and yelling about how the Quiet-Guy couldn't stand up and defind himself. It was horrid watching the last match. All the other guys faces were of disbelief as the Loud-Mouth continue to cut and hack away on the spirit of the Quiet-Guy. The Quiet-Guy in a last ditch effort did defend himself only when he could get a word in edge wise. To my disgust is not just the Loud-Mouth but all the other Not-Going-to-Say-Anything-or-Defend guys kicked the Quiet-Guy out of their group.
Hot tears and furry. All that matters is how well you can beat on your chest and stand up to others. This isn't just in the workplace but has trickled down to the very relationships you try to keep. My biggest pet peeve is how others even so called friends will put words in your mouth or tell you what to do or how to think or how to feel. These are all traits of the Loud-Mouth. All mouth and no ears.
I have been accused of beating around the bush. I have been accused of not really saying what I meant to say by having the so called 'real answer' put in my mouth. {spit spit} I have been beaten down time and time again by the rudeness of others so much so that I am super sensitive to the abuse. I have tried to use 'I statements' when I do try to stand up for a breaking relationship. What I have gotten back have been 'you statements'.
The meek will inherit the earth. The poor in spirit will have the Kingdom of Heaven. Don't give pearls to pigs. Guard your wellspring. Whew! Is it so hard to stop and listen? especially to the Quiet-Guy or the Quiet-Girl? They just might have something pretty special to share with you. They might have an interesting story. They might stand firm when others flee.
They seem weak. They seem to give up the fight. They seem useless. Maybe they are the strong ones because they have lived alone and are not afraid. It is said that they will inherit the earth. Maybe they aren't giving up the fight, maybe they are using their head and know it isn't worth it. Maybe they are the most valueable. It is said they will have the Kingdom of Heaven.
Have I been loud? Have I used a 'you statement'? Have I let my fire get the best of my tongue? Do I move away and be quiet? or do I stay and fight with all the 'I statements'? How do you stand up for yourself and listen too? Isn't it contradictory?
I am back to square one. I am just trying to find the boundaries. I am trying to find the right and the wrongs. No clue. I have failed over and over because when you push a Quiet too far, the Loud will come out most hateful. It is a very delicate balance. No wonder they will back away trying to leave everything peaceful instead of raging...
Saturday, March 24, 2007
on this day ...
My dear beloved daughter,
Ahhhhh, your fiesty little heart is what I created. I see that you are trying so hard to understand how to balance out that fight you have so that you aren't striving but being. I know you are soooo tired of banging your head against the wall. I know you hate to give up and yet you are learning to let go. I am glad your first concern is balance because that is where the key of this mystery is. You get upset when life and relationships get messy and you feel greatly cross and irate. You will feel this out and find the boundaries. You will right yourself again. Keep Me close. Engage Me. You, My dear one, will still have your fight and you will be still and serene in the face of all that once pricked your very soul to breaking.
Again My-Designed lesson for you. Continue to give. You are right that what you give out will come back. It just might not be the way you thought it would be. Remember I love to give abundantly. You are rich, My girl, because you are MINE.
I love the way I created your brain. While reading that man-book, I saw how you were thinking up the path a girl should be taking. You don't have it all worded out but you are so right on. You are My beloved daughter, My maid-in-waiting, My dream keeper, and when all these experinces ripen your soul, you will be My serene. You are still trying to figure out words for the stages between dream keeper and serene like home or land. You are in the right place. I delight in how you engage learning. Keep up the good work.
Be your own best friend. The human definition wasn't correct, was it? There is no such thing as a human best friend. I am the Bestest-Friend you will ever have, but a best friend can only come of yourself being kind to your own wounds. It makes you soft and supple and resilient as I would have you to be.
I love you. I love your dreams. I love your search for Me even in the everyday. Keep engaging Me. Keep leaning into Me. I will be your Father, your Husbandman, your Friend, and your Great-Lover. I love romancing you! You heard My whispers and now you feel My great winds of romance! Oh, how I delight to see your smile and your joy! You romance Me when you do. You are getting it! Let that Love bubble up and overflow others. Continue to Taste all I have for you. Your path is being Strengthen. I LOVE you!!!!!! Huge Huggers from My Everlasting Arms.
~ always the Rock of Ages
on this day...'06
Ahhhhh, your fiesty little heart is what I created. I see that you are trying so hard to understand how to balance out that fight you have so that you aren't striving but being. I know you are soooo tired of banging your head against the wall. I know you hate to give up and yet you are learning to let go. I am glad your first concern is balance because that is where the key of this mystery is. You get upset when life and relationships get messy and you feel greatly cross and irate. You will feel this out and find the boundaries. You will right yourself again. Keep Me close. Engage Me. You, My dear one, will still have your fight and you will be still and serene in the face of all that once pricked your very soul to breaking.
Again My-Designed lesson for you. Continue to give. You are right that what you give out will come back. It just might not be the way you thought it would be. Remember I love to give abundantly. You are rich, My girl, because you are MINE.
I love the way I created your brain. While reading that man-book, I saw how you were thinking up the path a girl should be taking. You don't have it all worded out but you are so right on. You are My beloved daughter, My maid-in-waiting, My dream keeper, and when all these experinces ripen your soul, you will be My serene. You are still trying to figure out words for the stages between dream keeper and serene like home or land. You are in the right place. I delight in how you engage learning. Keep up the good work.
Be your own best friend. The human definition wasn't correct, was it? There is no such thing as a human best friend. I am the Bestest-Friend you will ever have, but a best friend can only come of yourself being kind to your own wounds. It makes you soft and supple and resilient as I would have you to be.
I love you. I love your dreams. I love your search for Me even in the everyday. Keep engaging Me. Keep leaning into Me. I will be your Father, your Husbandman, your Friend, and your Great-Lover. I love romancing you! You heard My whispers and now you feel My great winds of romance! Oh, how I delight to see your smile and your joy! You romance Me when you do. You are getting it! Let that Love bubble up and overflow others. Continue to Taste all I have for you. Your path is being Strengthen. I LOVE you!!!!!! Huge Huggers from My Everlasting Arms.
~ always the Rock of Ages
on this day...'06
Friday, March 23, 2007
Reign down over me ...
This movie would get a high rating from me but I would have to deduct for bad languange and bad situations that could have taken the approach on a higher plane. But......
the importance should be on every one has a story and are you going to take time out to listen to theirs. Are you going to allow them to express their pain no matter how uncomfortable it gets for you? Are you going to listen to your own story? Will you have the courage to let your own story out? Are you willing to give the space and breath for another to exhale their story?
A story can be so twisted and trapped inside a broken heart. This movie is about two college room mates both in dentistry. One man loses his three girls, wife, and family dog on one of the planes that hit the towers. The other man happens to see him 6 years later and tries to reconnect. You sit there watching and weeping and even laughing. This story so twisted and trapped ... we all brake down in different ways. It is soooooo hard to sit still and let these different ways play out. You can't make people move on the way you do. But you have to be still. You have to listen. Or you will miss out on the blooming...
"Love Reign down on me'' is heard as the story ends. This movie suggests that what we need is love. I say love should be still and listening ...
the importance should be on every one has a story and are you going to take time out to listen to theirs. Are you going to allow them to express their pain no matter how uncomfortable it gets for you? Are you going to listen to your own story? Will you have the courage to let your own story out? Are you willing to give the space and breath for another to exhale their story?
A story can be so twisted and trapped inside a broken heart. This movie is about two college room mates both in dentistry. One man loses his three girls, wife, and family dog on one of the planes that hit the towers. The other man happens to see him 6 years later and tries to reconnect. You sit there watching and weeping and even laughing. This story so twisted and trapped ... we all brake down in different ways. It is soooooo hard to sit still and let these different ways play out. You can't make people move on the way you do. But you have to be still. You have to listen. Or you will miss out on the blooming...
"Love Reign down on me'' is heard as the story ends. This movie suggests that what we need is love. I say love should be still and listening ...
Thursday, March 22, 2007
join the party ...
Luke 15:11-32
I always got hung up with the older brother not wanting to join the celebration of the wayward son returning home. I am a first born. I know those feelings of doing right and going unnoticed. The father's reply was kind but seemed like a rebuke.
Many times sermons never really talked about the older son or more like they never answered it in depth. This past Sunday a girl that grew up in the church, came back from college to preach for one of her classes. This was what she spoke on and she did a good job.
At the end of the story she gave us three choices. You can be the wayward son and squander your life on wayward living, or you could be the first born with a bitter attitude for receiving no kudos for your service, or you can be the father celebrating the Kingdom. The catch phrase is join the party. When you are feeling grumpy or when you have done wrong, come back home and join the party. God has big arms to hold you and a gentle brush of hand to wipe away the tears. It's time to celebrate...
I always got hung up with the older brother not wanting to join the celebration of the wayward son returning home. I am a first born. I know those feelings of doing right and going unnoticed. The father's reply was kind but seemed like a rebuke.
Many times sermons never really talked about the older son or more like they never answered it in depth. This past Sunday a girl that grew up in the church, came back from college to preach for one of her classes. This was what she spoke on and she did a good job.
At the end of the story she gave us three choices. You can be the wayward son and squander your life on wayward living, or you could be the first born with a bitter attitude for receiving no kudos for your service, or you can be the father celebrating the Kingdom. The catch phrase is join the party. When you are feeling grumpy or when you have done wrong, come back home and join the party. God has big arms to hold you and a gentle brush of hand to wipe away the tears. It's time to celebrate...
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
soaking puddle ...
As I rounded the corner, there he was sitting right there in the puddle of rain along the side of the road. Mr. Robin as plump as he could get his orange chest sitting there not wanting to give until the last minute. His own personal soaking puddle to get the winter grime from between his toes and feathers. I was thinking that I wanted a soaking puddle too. My temples hurt from a fatiguing day. I know I wouldn't give until the very last minute too...
If God cares enough to keep the robins fed and to top if off with a wading pool, will He not care for me?
matt 6:25-27
If God cares enough to keep the robins fed and to top if off with a wading pool, will He not care for me?
matt 6:25-27
what friends contribute ...
I took some notes on a friendship book I read because I am trying to find my way through the potholes on this friendship path I am stuck on. I am afraid the potholes are from my own backfires as I can't seem to get this peddle pusher to go.
So I read this book and was taken aback that the focus was NOT ABOUT SELF-DEVELOPMENT or self-improvement. About time. However, I am taking the books advise, but in honesty, I am cleaning house on self. Correct words? I am doing self-improvement. Have to. Grrrrrrrr ...
check out more here with 8 Vital Friends
The energy between two people is what creates great marriages, families, teams, and organizations.
... when we think consciously about improving our lives, we put almost all of our effort into self-development. I had it all wrong. The potential was hiding with in each relationship.
Friendships add significant value to our marriages, families, work, and lives. At some level, everthing we see and feel is a product of a personal relationship.
Friends are catalysts for high points in any given day.
Strong social relationships are the leading indicator of our overall happiness, and these findings appear to hold up across countries and cultures.
Friendships shape our expectations, desires, and goals for the future.
"Friendship has a profound effect on your physical well-being. Having good relationships improves health and lifts depressions. You don't necessarily need drugs or medical treatment to accomplish this - just friends."
~Eugene Kennedy PH D
"It is not a lack of love, but a lack of friendship that makes unhappy marriages."
~ Fredrich Nietzsche
To crack the code on saving marriages is to analyze what went RIGHT in happy marriages.
To judge a relationship based on its low points would be a mistake. The best gauge of a friendship's health is each person's happiness during every day interactions.
{ key }
Focus on what each friend does contribute to your life.
above taken from "Vital Friends"
So I read this book and was taken aback that the focus was NOT ABOUT SELF-DEVELOPMENT or self-improvement. About time. However, I am taking the books advise, but in honesty, I am cleaning house on self. Correct words? I am doing self-improvement. Have to. Grrrrrrrr ...
check out more here with 8 Vital Friends
Sunday, March 18, 2007
tongues of shoes...
above the tongue of your mouth.
Hmmm, could this be true? How many times have I said something that I should say, over the lashing my insides wants to say to someone? I have many teeth bites on my tongue. I am always over worrying about how to say something or what I should say to be nice and yet voice my concerns or my beliefs or my feelings. I hate it when others spatter themselves outside their boxes and I want to be respectful to others. I want to be nice. However, I feel intensely the nasty others put out there...
Tongues of the shoes making a perfect get away...
hmmm, a lot to think about!
a mircle is a choice ...
it comes down to a choice
to believe or not to believe.'
When you have tried everything and you are left with either utter doom or a mircle, what will you choose?!!!! You are going to have to choose a mircle if you want to survive. When you begin to look at your circumstances this way, you begin to clear up your vision and see God who was always there...
How has this played out in your own path?
nugget gleaned from 'Against All Odds' (tv show on tbn)
the thief ...
above all, he is out to steal your JOY!
When the author was writing this out in his book, it struck me deeply. I know he is a theif and I think I knew somewhere inside that he loves to steal joy, I just didn't speak this truth aloud... The biggest victory to date in my life has been the 'Joy of the Lord is my strength', so it was connecting the dots. I have work to do...
This little quote is going to kick in very actively in my everyday path. It is like fuel to battle back and keep my joy tank secure within the Rock...
nugget found in 'The Way of the Wild Heart'
Friday, March 16, 2007
a woman's mystery ...
As a girl I have read that women are a mystery and when a man has cracked your mystery, he is no longer interested. Well, that sends a quake through me when I don't think I have much mystery. How can I keep my mystery when I don't even really know what it is?!
I think I have discovered what the mystery is all about! Check this out: When a man is looking to put a bit of romance into the relationship, he reduces it into an equation ...
I have to add a disclaimer here. I don't calculate what kind of romance will work with me on this day or that! I can rest assured because I believe God made this mystery in a woman to where she isn't thinking about it. It just happens there in the heart without her knowing it. Whew! I feel much better!
Another thought, God doesn't like to be put in a box either! Are we a student of God? Are we pursuing God? Are we romancing God? Are we letting His Mystery woo us?
I think I have discovered what the mystery is all about! Check this out: When a man is looking to put a bit of romance into the relationship, he reduces it into an equation ...
He reasons, ''If flowers resulted in passion and romance the last time, then why not try it again?''
I've done this. Trust me, it doesn't work the way you and I wish that it would.
Here's what's happening. Your wife doesn't want to be 'figured out.' Barbara once told me that just because A+B+C=D last week, that doesn't mean the same equation works this week. There's a certain mystery to romancing your wife; she's a puzzle that doesn't want to be pieced together, solved, and framed on the wall.
Your wife wants you to be a student of her, willing to pursue her in different ways on different days. Why? Because if she feels that she's been 'solved', there's no mystery and no reason to pursue her.
I've found that when a man invests in focus, time, creativity, adventure, and anticipation, he will enjoy a real relationship with a real person who knows and loves him in ways he never dreamed possible. As I've pursued this kind of relationship with Barbara, she has affirmed me as a man in ways that I never expected.
~ ''Rekindling the Romance'' by Dennis & Barbara Rainey
I have to add a disclaimer here. I don't calculate what kind of romance will work with me on this day or that! I can rest assured because I believe God made this mystery in a woman to where she isn't thinking about it. It just happens there in the heart without her knowing it. Whew! I feel much better!
Another thought, God doesn't like to be put in a box either! Are we a student of God? Are we pursuing God? Are we romancing God? Are we letting His Mystery woo us?
Thursday, March 15, 2007
jeep provisions ...
He goes before me and He goes with me.
He has made provisions.
He makes a way.
Be expectant...
Jehovah Jireh, the Lord provideth.
Deut 31:8
thoughts on dealing with my jeep
(peak leak and the boo boo)
He has made provisions.
He makes a way.
Be expectant...
Jehovah Jireh, the Lord provideth.
Deut 31:8
thoughts on dealing with my jeep
(peak leak and the boo boo)
snowblower artist ...
I went to bed with raindrops falling and winds making gusts against the window, but sometime in the wee hours the Artist started snowblowing and transforming my world into a pretty white wonderland. He blew the snow on some trees where the snow stuck to the length. Other groups of trees had snow caked an inch deep on very branch and twig. The substantial wintergreens boughs drooped downward with the weight of the snow. Houses and road signs had this snowblow effect where the snow was like huge blobs caked in rich abundance on their sides. The Artist left nothing untouched. In the days of half spring and half winter, the Artist gives us hints of spring and the warmth of the sun. He knows we thirst for it. Yet, He reminds of winter beauty. This might be my last delicious enjoyment of snow until next season. Ahhhhh! What a Masterful Creator who lavishes me with such brillance...
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
my wish ...
Dear Loved One,
Rascal Flatts has a nack for really good songs that speak so dear to my heart. It is almost like they took it from my life. I loved 'God bless the Broken Road that led me to you'. It was perfect for us. Our roads were not straight. Mine was very long and lonely, yours was very broken. I saw the bright hope and assurance that it did not matter. Bad was not ours to hold. I am not sure you saw it.
Then when I could not (still cannot) understand why you left, I broke down when I first heard 'What hurts the most'. It made my pain real and not imagined. Sadly, it will probably remain my favorite song of all time.
As time goes by, my journey has taken me through and I might be on the other side. This song 'My Wish' is exactly what I wish for you. I remember your talk about your 40th birthday and about whoever was there with you. I knew I would be there but I did not know you would be gone. The next mile marker is Heaven and with my human eyes it isn't going to be the gushing happy reunion. I will be there watching for you but now behind a golden piller. A smile from the bottom of my heart will be there but a tear will be in my eye. I wish you well. Don't ever be afraid to come back home. And if I have misread everything and you are disgusted with me, please forgive me I did not know what I had done.
I ment everything I put in your card. Please ignore my words but listen .. maybe God granted my birthday prayer for you and His Words affirm you. Happy birthday!
~the crazy yank
by Rascal Flatts
I hope the days come easy and the moments pass slow
And each road leads you where you want to go
And if you’re faced with the choice and you have to choose
I hope you choose the one that means the most to you
And if one door opens to another door closed
I hope you keep on walkin’ ‘til you find the window
If it’s cold outside, show the world the warmth of your smile
But more than anything, more than anything
My wish for you
Is that this life becomes all that you want it to
Your dreams stay big, your worries stay small
You never need to carry more than you can hold
And while you’re out there gettin’ where you’re gettin’ to
I hope you know somebody loves you
And wants the same things too
Yeah, this is my wish
I hope you never look back but you never forget
All the ones who love you
And the place you left
I hope you always forgive and you never regret
And you help somebody every chance you get
Oh, you find God’s grace in every mistake
And always give more than you take
But more than anything, yeah more than anything
My wish for you
Is that this life becomes all that you want it to
Your dreams stay big, your worries stay small
You never need to carry more than you can hold
And while you’re out there gettin’ where you’re gettin’ to
I hope you know somebody loves you
And wants the same things too
Yeah, this is my wish
This is my wish
I hope you know somebody loves you
May all your dreams stay big
happy birthday
misses you
Good grief! When I feel like this, I can't seem to get James Blunt's 'Goodbye My Lover' out of my head. It haunts me! Argh! Good my friend...
Rascal Flatts has a nack for really good songs that speak so dear to my heart. It is almost like they took it from my life. I loved 'God bless the Broken Road that led me to you'. It was perfect for us. Our roads were not straight. Mine was very long and lonely, yours was very broken. I saw the bright hope and assurance that it did not matter. Bad was not ours to hold. I am not sure you saw it.
Then when I could not (still cannot) understand why you left, I broke down when I first heard 'What hurts the most'. It made my pain real and not imagined. Sadly, it will probably remain my favorite song of all time.
As time goes by, my journey has taken me through and I might be on the other side. This song 'My Wish' is exactly what I wish for you. I remember your talk about your 40th birthday and about whoever was there with you. I knew I would be there but I did not know you would be gone. The next mile marker is Heaven and with my human eyes it isn't going to be the gushing happy reunion. I will be there watching for you but now behind a golden piller. A smile from the bottom of my heart will be there but a tear will be in my eye. I wish you well. Don't ever be afraid to come back home. And if I have misread everything and you are disgusted with me, please forgive me I did not know what I had done.
I ment everything I put in your card. Please ignore my words but listen .. maybe God granted my birthday prayer for you and His Words affirm you. Happy birthday!
~the crazy yank
by Rascal Flatts
I hope the days come easy and the moments pass slow
And each road leads you where you want to go
And if you’re faced with the choice and you have to choose
I hope you choose the one that means the most to you
And if one door opens to another door closed
I hope you keep on walkin’ ‘til you find the window
If it’s cold outside, show the world the warmth of your smile
But more than anything, more than anything
My wish for you
Is that this life becomes all that you want it to
Your dreams stay big, your worries stay small
You never need to carry more than you can hold
And while you’re out there gettin’ where you’re gettin’ to
I hope you know somebody loves you
And wants the same things too
Yeah, this is my wish
I hope you never look back but you never forget
All the ones who love you
And the place you left
I hope you always forgive and you never regret
And you help somebody every chance you get
Oh, you find God’s grace in every mistake
And always give more than you take
But more than anything, yeah more than anything
My wish for you
Is that this life becomes all that you want it to
Your dreams stay big, your worries stay small
You never need to carry more than you can hold
And while you’re out there gettin’ where you’re gettin’ to
I hope you know somebody loves you
And wants the same things too
Yeah, this is my wish
This is my wish
I hope you know somebody loves you
May all your dreams stay big
happy birthday
misses you
Good grief! When I feel like this, I can't seem to get James Blunt's 'Goodbye My Lover' out of my head. It haunts me! Argh! Good my friend...
a feeling like that ...
by gary allen
I stepped out into the blue, felt the wind hit my face
Before my chute opened I felt my heart race
I was fallin', nop‘, that's just fallin'
And off the coast of Australia I dove way down deep
For all that I saw of that Great Barrier Reef
It was nothin', compared to you it was nothin'.
I got lightning in my veins and thunder in my chest
All tangled up with you and tryin' to catch my breath
Been chasing that sensation halfway round the world
And lookin' back on what we had
Well, I've done it all and I've seen it all
But I can't find a feelin' like that.
Well, I've wound up in some town in Spain
runnin' w/ the bulls
Tryin' to catch another thrill
w/ a thousand other fools
We were runnin', aw, but that's just runnin'
When I started pushin' 30 it started pushin' back
Well, how was I to know till now you'd be
such a hard act to follow. Nothin' seems to follow.
I got lightning in my veins and thunder in my chest
All tangled up with you and tryin' to catch my breath
I been chasing that sensation halfway round the world
And lookin' back on what we had
Well, I've done it all and I've seen it all
But I can't find a feelin' like that.
It's like flyin' down some back road at midnight
With your eyes closed and the headlights off
Your life been searchin' everywhere
Can't find that feelin' anywhere
You're all I want, now all I want.
Said lightning in my veins and thunder in my chest
All tangled up with you and tryin' to catch my breath
I been chasing that sensation halfway round the world
And lookin' back on what we had
Well I've done it all and I've seen it all
But I can't find a feelin' like that.
That's right, I've done it all and I've seen it all
But I can't find a feelin' like that…
{sighs} EXACTLY ! ! !
misses you... an aussie sensation halfway around the world ... happy birthday you
I stepped out into the blue, felt the wind hit my face
Before my chute opened I felt my heart race
I was fallin', nop‘, that's just fallin'
And off the coast of Australia I dove way down deep
For all that I saw of that Great Barrier Reef
It was nothin', compared to you it was nothin'.
I got lightning in my veins and thunder in my chest
All tangled up with you and tryin' to catch my breath
Been chasing that sensation halfway round the world
And lookin' back on what we had
Well, I've done it all and I've seen it all
But I can't find a feelin' like that.
Well, I've wound up in some town in Spain
runnin' w/ the bulls
Tryin' to catch another thrill
w/ a thousand other fools
We were runnin', aw, but that's just runnin'
When I started pushin' 30 it started pushin' back
Well, how was I to know till now you'd be
such a hard act to follow. Nothin' seems to follow.
I got lightning in my veins and thunder in my chest
All tangled up with you and tryin' to catch my breath
I been chasing that sensation halfway round the world
And lookin' back on what we had
Well, I've done it all and I've seen it all
But I can't find a feelin' like that.
It's like flyin' down some back road at midnight
With your eyes closed and the headlights off
Your life been searchin' everywhere
Can't find that feelin' anywhere
You're all I want, now all I want.
Said lightning in my veins and thunder in my chest
All tangled up with you and tryin' to catch my breath
I been chasing that sensation halfway round the world
And lookin' back on what we had
Well I've done it all and I've seen it all
But I can't find a feelin' like that.
That's right, I've done it all and I've seen it all
But I can't find a feelin' like that…
{sighs} EXACTLY ! ! !
misses you... an aussie sensation halfway around the world ... happy birthday you
Monday, March 12, 2007
I rest my case!
{cringes} Arrrrrgh! Come on!!! Why does it feel that this soapbox is always pulled out on me and I am an audience of ONE! I got the message loud and clear already! Enough! MERCY, please!
So I am just going to pull out the soapbox and you all can listen to it. I don't need it and maybe you do. sorry!
See I know all to well the man's tendency to be alone. I knew cold before but not like this. This is like being stuck on an ice block out in the middle of polar bear land with no winter clothing and the wind has picked up and the temp is a -50* F. I cannot hold on to life anymore. Allowing the cold to seep in and falling asleep sounds more warm than this...
So I am just going to pull out the soapbox and you all can listen to it. I don't need it and maybe you do. sorry!
It was God who said, ''It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.''(gen 2:18) God, in His Wisdom, created Eve to be the companion that Adam didn't even recognize he needed. She was created to remove Adam's aloneness. No wonder God placed in Eve an intense drive toward relationship.
God knew that man's tendency was to be alone. He gave us a gravitational pull in marriage - our sex drive - so that we would pursue our wives who, in turn, would call us to know and be known in the context of a relationship.
'Rekindling the Romance' by Dennis & Barbara Rainey (the above written to the men by Dennis)
See I know all to well the man's tendency to be alone. I knew cold before but not like this. This is like being stuck on an ice block out in the middle of polar bear land with no winter clothing and the wind has picked up and the temp is a -50* F. I cannot hold on to life anymore. Allowing the cold to seep in and falling asleep sounds more warm than this...
Sunday, March 11, 2007
wilderness ... part IV
I have listened to one describe a dark period in his life as a wilderness. I felt a little afraid for the person even as I reminded him to see how far he has come. As I read in ''The Way of the Wild Heart'', no wonder there was some fear in my heart.
Whoa! That is real scary! I wonder if I have some wilderness lurking in my past or even in my present day...
part III
(The Isrealites) decision NOT to fight is what led to their wandering in the wilderness for 40 years. We often cite that part of the story, talking about our own wilderness experiences embracing the wilderness saga as if it were in inevitable. Rather, the wilderness was a punishment, the conseuence of refusing to trust God, and fight. We live in a world at war. We are suppose to fight back. ~John Eldredge
Whoa! That is real scary! I wonder if I have some wilderness lurking in my past or even in my present day...
part III
Saturday, March 10, 2007
space (n)
When you are hanging over the cliff and you finally let go because you have nothing more to hold fast to, you fall into a space, empty and silent. It stretches out in time and you get use to it, like having your eyes adjust to the night after coming in from a sunny day...
1st crocus!!!
Could not have been better timing. As I sighed once again as I started my jeep, there before me where my first crocus sighting of the season. They are a pale purple. I love the crocus because they bloom half in winter and half in spring. I feel a kinship to them as they share my month.
But never mind that ... God was sending me flowers for the boo boo someone did to my jeep. 'If God cares so wonderfully for the crocus that are here today and gone tomorrow, won't He surely care for you? Oh you of little faith!' matt 6:30 I know that my jeep is just a thing to care for others and to use. I know I can draw on God's strength to add another errand to my lengthing list. I know I can draw on God's provisions as I write another check for the accomulating bills that pile in this month. When my thoughts stray, I pull them back and look upon my crocus and smile. Oh, how God loves me...
But never mind that ... God was sending me flowers for the boo boo someone did to my jeep. 'If God cares so wonderfully for the crocus that are here today and gone tomorrow, won't He surely care for you? Oh you of little faith!' matt 6:30 I know that my jeep is just a thing to care for others and to use. I know I can draw on God's strength to add another errand to my lengthing list. I know I can draw on God's provisions as I write another check for the accomulating bills that pile in this month. When my thoughts stray, I pull them back and look upon my crocus and smile. Oh, how God loves me...
Friday, March 09, 2007
broken or back together ...
The rounded glass pitcher that contained the breakfast orange juice each morning slipped from her hands and shattered into a million sticky pieces all over the kitchen floor. It was not the spilt juice that moved her to tears. Rather it was the impossibility of putting back the pieces of this precious gift that had been given to her on her 16th birthday for her hope chest.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
A family heirloom of fine dishware lay in broken pieces on the front lawn in the tornado’s aftermath. The pieces, where gathered and stored in a shed, waiting until a new house could be built. A new beginning was mosaic together into a round table creating the same motif found on the plates but done so out of broken pieces, a brilliant creation for something old.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I remember going to an amusement park and having a ton of fun. As memories where gone over like a picture album, my heart whispered to enjoy it all because you can never recreate the experience again. I declined the second trip to the amusement park that summer because I did not want to mess up the fabulous time I had had. I had no regrets doing so.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
When my first grand am got rear ended, you couldn't tell until you looked at the metal between the back window and rear window on both sides. They had to bend it back, but they could never get the trunk to stop leaking. They even went so far as to claim I was rear ended exactly like before. But from past experiences nothing happens the same way twice. Hince the reason they could not get the car back in its orginal state.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
My path has moved from precious gift to masterpiece. With a masterpiece it is best to sit back and watch the creator make his magic or after it is hung finished and ready.
What is the treasure in the snapshots above? What action should be taken? Does it relate? Is it alright to leave it broken or should it be put back together? Putting it back together leaves some pieces never to fit in again, is that ok? Would leaving it broken be a bigger monument to what had happen, like many an ancient ruin smoothed over time? Where is the peace?
Dear Creator,
I am asking and seeking. You alone know the intricate bring ‘togethers’ and tearing ‘aparts’. Thank You, for these pictures. I have no clue yet of what I must do. I will remember to wait. I know You are teaching here. I was at peace now only to have the waters disturbed. I rest this in Your Care.
~always Yours
A family heirloom of fine dishware lay in broken pieces on the front lawn in the tornado’s aftermath. The pieces, where gathered and stored in a shed, waiting until a new house could be built. A new beginning was mosaic together into a round table creating the same motif found on the plates but done so out of broken pieces, a brilliant creation for something old.
I remember going to an amusement park and having a ton of fun. As memories where gone over like a picture album, my heart whispered to enjoy it all because you can never recreate the experience again. I declined the second trip to the amusement park that summer because I did not want to mess up the fabulous time I had had. I had no regrets doing so.
When my first grand am got rear ended, you couldn't tell until you looked at the metal between the back window and rear window on both sides. They had to bend it back, but they could never get the trunk to stop leaking. They even went so far as to claim I was rear ended exactly like before. But from past experiences nothing happens the same way twice. Hince the reason they could not get the car back in its orginal state.
My path has moved from precious gift to masterpiece. With a masterpiece it is best to sit back and watch the creator make his magic or after it is hung finished and ready.
What is the treasure in the snapshots above? What action should be taken? Does it relate? Is it alright to leave it broken or should it be put back together? Putting it back together leaves some pieces never to fit in again, is that ok? Would leaving it broken be a bigger monument to what had happen, like many an ancient ruin smoothed over time? Where is the peace?
Dear Creator,
I am asking and seeking. You alone know the intricate bring ‘togethers’ and tearing ‘aparts’. Thank You, for these pictures. I have no clue yet of what I must do. I will remember to wait. I know You are teaching here. I was at peace now only to have the waters disturbed. I rest this in Your Care.
~always Yours
Thursday, March 08, 2007
man phases ... part III
I've been reading "The Way of the Wild Heart" and the author gives 6 phases of a man's path. When I first read this, my thoughts went back to Psychology in high school where some guy thought up the different phases of man. That was depressing and very morbid as the man progress into his elder years. I like this new path. Very grounded and very true ... a catch though! Man must allow God to work these phases out in his life or the man will go though a morbid existance.
Ok here is the path:
See why I like this path? Exactly what a girl's heart hopes for in a man. Even a mother hopes her son can be raised like this!
I read this and I began to search for the path of a girl. I have some of the parts filled in but some are missing. My thought are a brewing. I am extremely excited. However, by the time I figure out the path for myself John will write it out with his wife! I hope they do come out with a book for us girls but I will beat my chest and figure it out for myself. Maybe I will share it here.... or it just might seep into my own book.
part II
Ok here is the path:
Boyhood:- a time of wonder & exploration; time of being the Beloved Son, the apple of your father's eye; time of affirmation
Cowboy:- time of learning the lessons of the field; time of great adventures & testing; time for hard work; time of daring & danger; time of learning that he does have what it takes
Warrior:- realizes his mission & that it is crucial; he learns to battle the kingdom of darkness is even more crucial; to be a man he must learn to live with courage, take action, go into battle
Lover:- comes to offer his strength to a woman, not to get it from her; discovers the way of the heart; awakens to beauty, to life - becomes a romantic & it takes his spiritual life to a whole new level; Serviceof God is overshadowed by inimacy WITH God
King: - will be sorely tested to use his influence in humility for the benefits of others; time for ruling over a kingdom; draws around him a company of young warriors - for he is now a father to younger men
Sage: - mission now to counsel others; his influence ought to increase; the kingdom needs him as an elder at the gates; should spend time mentoring younger men; this should be the period of their greatest contribution
Ch 2 of "The Way of the Wild Heart by John Elderidge
See why I like this path? Exactly what a girl's heart hopes for in a man. Even a mother hopes her son can be raised like this!
I read this and I began to search for the path of a girl. I have some of the parts filled in but some are missing. My thought are a brewing. I am extremely excited. However, by the time I figure out the path for myself John will write it out with his wife! I hope they do come out with a book for us girls but I will beat my chest and figure it out for myself. Maybe I will share it here.... or it just might seep into my own book.
part II
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
what girls think about as much as boys think about sex...
I think it has been drilled into the girls head that boys tend to think about sex about every minute. Yes, we know that already. If we haven't been told, the boys' eyes have made us feel like objects. Nothing new here. I did have a heart to heart talk with a he and was shown the man's struggle. I understand how men are made and no, I am not going to go into male bashing.
I would like to turn on us girls. Do you know that girls think about 'something' as much as men think about sex? Yes, true. I was shocked but I have to admit to this. So can you guess what we obsess about with our thoughts? Ok, who said chocolate? No! not the answer. Well, chocolate probably does come in second place. Do you avoid the mirror or take a second look to make sure everything is just so? Do you change your clothes more than once a day? Do you take as much time picking out jewerly to match your outfit as much picking outfits? Do you like or hate your hair? Are you sucking in your tummy? Are you hiding or showing off your bum? Are you a shop-a-holic or are you hiding in baggy clothes? No matter if you like or hate your looks, admit it. You girls think about your appearance as much as guys think about sex!
Whoa! Scary isn't it. Might even feel shameful. But really it opens up needs that are basic to males and females. Males feel loved physically. Females feel loved when affirmed attractively. Just something to think about!
I would like to turn on us girls. Do you know that girls think about 'something' as much as men think about sex? Yes, true. I was shocked but I have to admit to this. So can you guess what we obsess about with our thoughts? Ok, who said chocolate? No! not the answer. Well, chocolate probably does come in second place. Do you avoid the mirror or take a second look to make sure everything is just so? Do you change your clothes more than once a day? Do you take as much time picking out jewerly to match your outfit as much picking outfits? Do you like or hate your hair? Are you sucking in your tummy? Are you hiding or showing off your bum? Are you a shop-a-holic or are you hiding in baggy clothes? No matter if you like or hate your looks, admit it. You girls think about your appearance as much as guys think about sex!
Whoa! Scary isn't it. Might even feel shameful. But really it opens up needs that are basic to males and females. Males feel loved physically. Females feel loved when affirmed attractively. Just something to think about!
if I have to give up... part II
Good grief! Here I go again reading a book that makes me mad, sad, and a whole lot of other feelings. I should just stop reading books by John Eldredge but I am compelled to grasp the man’s world and mine as well.
I read ‘Wild at Heart’ and was so furious that man is a broken man prone to hiding out and to refusing to tackle their world. Down with ‘cave dwellers’ and ‘escape artists’! I had hot tears and outbursts for God. I wasn’t happy that the author told about man’s wound without giveing some kind of hope. I also read the book for women called ‘Captivating’. Again mad about the wound. Again mad that there was no hope for healing.
The new book called ‘Way of the Wild Heart’ seems to be promising. There seems to be hope. He isn’t offering a self help but gives a path for a man’s life. However, I am not sure very many men are going to find this nugget nestled in chapter two. Salvation is the hugest gift given by our Heavenly Father but next treasure is that we must give up all and dwell in God. HOME. “Coming home to the Father is the goal.”
‘Errrrrrrrrrrrrrk.’ Here comes my soapbox!
If I have to give up every hope of having a husband, a lover, some teamship, some attentive love and let God be my Husbandman, my Great Lover, my teammate, and my Attentive Love, then why can’t man give up this notion of trying to gain love from their earthly father who has wounded them with a big hole in their heart that must be filled and let the Heavenly God be their Perfect Father who will calls them Beloved Sons and who will never leave them, and who will be with them through any fire or any hell and fill the gapping hole in their heart?{gasps for a breath}
You can bet that I threw the book down and started pacing and muttering to God about this very crazed feeling I was feeling. I have always viewed my God as my Heavenly Father. I am quite lucky to have a really good dad who yes, has weaknesses and who has struggled with his own father’s lack of making my dad feel beloved and prized. But I have been taken aback by a guy who is precious to my heart who did not like thinking of God as a Heavenly Father. This hurts!!!!! I never could understand this … back with the discussion of the first book I tried to point out to him that he was a good dad to his son and his daughter and that those feelings that you get as a dad wanting to give good gifts to your children is exactly what the Heavenly Father feels towards him. I wanted to yell and scream ‘You have it. Take it. Go with it.’
But today I want my eyes to heat up and I want to say with strongest intensity and you bet I have that! ‘If I have to let go of my deepest dreams of a husbandman, then you must give up wanting love from your earthly dad. If I have to let God be my Husbandman, then surely you can let God be your Heavenly Father. Don’t get me wrong. Prying your hands off this wound is the hardest. I can list a million things I have had to let go of so I know deeply how hard this is. However, you will never intimately know the greatest Joy of being prized and beloved by the Perfect Heavenly Father until you let go. He will catch you.’
No wonder I talk so much about going for your dreams. I believe so strongly that God put them there before your parents even thought of you. He has plans for those dreams and those precious gifts only you can bring to this world and pour out for this world.
Good grief! What a soapbox! What heated feelings that bubble in my very heart!!! I feel burned… blazes!
part I
I read ‘Wild at Heart’ and was so furious that man is a broken man prone to hiding out and to refusing to tackle their world. Down with ‘cave dwellers’ and ‘escape artists’! I had hot tears and outbursts for God. I wasn’t happy that the author told about man’s wound without giveing some kind of hope. I also read the book for women called ‘Captivating’. Again mad about the wound. Again mad that there was no hope for healing.
The new book called ‘Way of the Wild Heart’ seems to be promising. There seems to be hope. He isn’t offering a self help but gives a path for a man’s life. However, I am not sure very many men are going to find this nugget nestled in chapter two. Salvation is the hugest gift given by our Heavenly Father but next treasure is that we must give up all and dwell in God. HOME. “Coming home to the Father is the goal.”
‘Errrrrrrrrrrrrrk.’ Here comes my soapbox!
If I have to give up every hope of having a husband, a lover, some teamship, some attentive love and let God be my Husbandman, my Great Lover, my teammate, and my Attentive Love, then why can’t man give up this notion of trying to gain love from their earthly father who has wounded them with a big hole in their heart that must be filled and let the Heavenly God be their Perfect Father who will calls them Beloved Sons and who will never leave them, and who will be with them through any fire or any hell and fill the gapping hole in their heart?{gasps for a breath}
You can bet that I threw the book down and started pacing and muttering to God about this very crazed feeling I was feeling. I have always viewed my God as my Heavenly Father. I am quite lucky to have a really good dad who yes, has weaknesses and who has struggled with his own father’s lack of making my dad feel beloved and prized. But I have been taken aback by a guy who is precious to my heart who did not like thinking of God as a Heavenly Father. This hurts!!!!! I never could understand this … back with the discussion of the first book I tried to point out to him that he was a good dad to his son and his daughter and that those feelings that you get as a dad wanting to give good gifts to your children is exactly what the Heavenly Father feels towards him. I wanted to yell and scream ‘You have it. Take it. Go with it.’
But today I want my eyes to heat up and I want to say with strongest intensity and you bet I have that! ‘If I have to let go of my deepest dreams of a husbandman, then you must give up wanting love from your earthly dad. If I have to let God be my Husbandman, then surely you can let God be your Heavenly Father. Don’t get me wrong. Prying your hands off this wound is the hardest. I can list a million things I have had to let go of so I know deeply how hard this is. However, you will never intimately know the greatest Joy of being prized and beloved by the Perfect Heavenly Father until you let go. He will catch you.’
No wonder I talk so much about going for your dreams. I believe so strongly that God put them there before your parents even thought of you. He has plans for those dreams and those precious gifts only you can bring to this world and pour out for this world.
Good grief! What a soapbox! What heated feelings that bubble in my very heart!!! I feel burned… blazes!
part I
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
pain ...
Sunday night as I was returning to my home with bags in my hands, I slipped on the ice before I saw it. I went straight down with my right leg sliding out. I came straight back up but not before I felt a very tight pull in my ribs on the right side. It was painful, but not as painful as today. I can't cough or laugh without pain. Certain movements send me into moans.
The pain is spreading to my back with the most intense tenderness on my side. This is when I feel around to make sure my ribs are intact and poking out somewhere. Ok, I saw you smile at that. I will allow one smurk!
I've been wondering how to make muscles relax with out meds. Several years ago when I was getting down on my puppers level, good ol Bobby pushed his front feet smack dab on my chest bone. Now Bobby is a small dog - a toy fox terrier but man, do they pack a lot of power in them little bodies. The muscle had tighten up so bad it felt like knives. I finally went to the doctor and she prescribe something that later was jerked off the shelf. I plan on this time just letting it work itself out. I do have a chiropractic appointment next Tuesday. Maybe that will help.
The pain is spreading to my back with the most intense tenderness on my side. This is when I feel around to make sure my ribs are intact and poking out somewhere. Ok, I saw you smile at that. I will allow one smurk!
I've been wondering how to make muscles relax with out meds. Several years ago when I was getting down on my puppers level, good ol Bobby pushed his front feet smack dab on my chest bone. Now Bobby is a small dog - a toy fox terrier but man, do they pack a lot of power in them little bodies. The muscle had tighten up so bad it felt like knives. I finally went to the doctor and she prescribe something that later was jerked off the shelf. I plan on this time just letting it work itself out. I do have a chiropractic appointment next Tuesday. Maybe that will help.
Sunday, March 04, 2007
My Anchor holds ...
The next day after the Thunder Snow with all it rain, I woke to a light dusting of snow already on the ground with more in the air. The radio is blaring to watch out for black ice which is a dreaded word for me. (had a bad wreak on it) I was not looking forward to the drive into work. I chose the back way since the local school thought it wise NOT to delay. Problem is that it is a bear to get through town with bad weather and no school delays. So in my head popped the hymn "My Anchor Holds''. Who would have know that the icy roads was not the worst of my day.
I got reamed out by a caller. My face was so red hot that you could have fried eggs on my cheeks. This happened mid-morning and the heat did not leave till evening. I've been working on my voice trying to keep my gentleness even though I know more than half the callers I connect to people end up in voicemail. Plus, having all those spam callers isn't a piece of cake either. Add to that those who choose to use their speaker phones which sounds like they are yelling across the room and jumping straight down your ear drum telling you to speak up! Then oh those yummy CELL phone users who are in and out and raising their voices upset at you no less for the bad connection. I am too fragile to deal with abusive callers and then to be nice on top of that. I had it coming, but what scared me alone in the lady's room was that I felt stuck. This is the same feeling I had before and not one that I want to be in ever again. Having the stuck feeling begins to eat away at you until you are a shell of what you are suppose to be. Never ever want to be in that place again.
I spent the rest of the day writing out the Living Words trying to get myself back ...
My Anchor Holds Heb 6:19
Though the angry surges roll
On my tempest driven soul,
I am peaceful, for I know,
Wildly though the winds may blow,
I’ve an anchor safe and sure,
That can evermore endure.
(Refrain:)
And it holds, my anchor holds:
Blow your wildest, then, O gale,
On my bark so small and frail;
By His grace I shall not fail,
For my anchor holds, my anchor holds.
Mighty tides about me sweep,
Perils lurk within the deep,
Angry clouds o’ershade the sky,
And the tempest rises high;
Still I stand the tempest’s shock,
For my anchor grips the rock.
Refrain
I can feel the anchor fast
As I meet each sudden blast,
And the cable, though unseen,
Bears the heavy strain between;
Through the storm I safely ride,
Till the turning of the tide.
Refrain
Troubles almost ’whelm the soul;
Griefs like billows o’er me roll;
Tempters seek to lure astray;
Storms obscure the light of day:
But in Christ I can be bold,
I’ve an anchor that shall hold.
Refrain
`words written by William C Martin
I am glad I had emailed the words of this song to my work addy. It was helpful to my weary soul ...
Hey, I still have my snow! It is March no less! It is a season that will come to an end and my Jeep is ready for a cleaning inside and out .... Spring brings that and I will welcome her like I welcomed Winter ... just no more November rains please .. pretty please ...
Dear Anchor,
Tomorrow is Monday. A new day. I will try again to dip from Your Gentleness. I need YOU. Can't do it alone...
~always Yours
I got reamed out by a caller. My face was so red hot that you could have fried eggs on my cheeks. This happened mid-morning and the heat did not leave till evening. I've been working on my voice trying to keep my gentleness even though I know more than half the callers I connect to people end up in voicemail. Plus, having all those spam callers isn't a piece of cake either. Add to that those who choose to use their speaker phones which sounds like they are yelling across the room and jumping straight down your ear drum telling you to speak up! Then oh those yummy CELL phone users who are in and out and raising their voices upset at you no less for the bad connection. I am too fragile to deal with abusive callers and then to be nice on top of that. I had it coming, but what scared me alone in the lady's room was that I felt stuck. This is the same feeling I had before and not one that I want to be in ever again. Having the stuck feeling begins to eat away at you until you are a shell of what you are suppose to be. Never ever want to be in that place again.
I spent the rest of the day writing out the Living Words trying to get myself back ...
to slander no one, to be peaceable, to be full of courtesy, to walk humbly - titus 3:2 ... let your gentleness be know to all men ... he who hardens his heart falls into trouble - prov 28:14 ... bright eyes gladden the heart ...
My Anchor Holds Heb 6:19
Though the angry surges roll
On my tempest driven soul,
I am peaceful, for I know,
Wildly though the winds may blow,
I’ve an anchor safe and sure,
That can evermore endure.
(Refrain:)
And it holds, my anchor holds:
Blow your wildest, then, O gale,
On my bark so small and frail;
By His grace I shall not fail,
For my anchor holds, my anchor holds.
Mighty tides about me sweep,
Perils lurk within the deep,
Angry clouds o’ershade the sky,
And the tempest rises high;
Still I stand the tempest’s shock,
For my anchor grips the rock.
Refrain
I can feel the anchor fast
As I meet each sudden blast,
And the cable, though unseen,
Bears the heavy strain between;
Through the storm I safely ride,
Till the turning of the tide.
Refrain
Troubles almost ’whelm the soul;
Griefs like billows o’er me roll;
Tempters seek to lure astray;
Storms obscure the light of day:
But in Christ I can be bold,
I’ve an anchor that shall hold.
Refrain
`words written by William C Martin
I am glad I had emailed the words of this song to my work addy. It was helpful to my weary soul ...
Hey, I still have my snow! It is March no less! It is a season that will come to an end and my Jeep is ready for a cleaning inside and out .... Spring brings that and I will welcome her like I welcomed Winter ... just no more November rains please .. pretty please ...
Dear Anchor,
Tomorrow is Monday. A new day. I will try again to dip from Your Gentleness. I need YOU. Can't do it alone...
~always Yours
Thursday, March 01, 2007
snow thunder ...
I had to stop and listen for the rumble to make sure it was thunder and not a passing train. There it was again, way off in the western sky. Rumble after rumble so low yet so strong to feel the earth move my second floor apartment. I should have stopped my morning rush and pull open the window and drink in the lightning. I did catch one blue flash that squeezed through the blind and bounced off the mirror and exploded upon the wall. Then a rumble so deep and close that I could feel it move my heart. The booms began to tumble over themselves and the rain broke loose. There is something electric something that draws me...
Way to go March! Definitely in like a lion!
I wonder if the snow will go today. The weather has been above freezing but with the huge amount that came in the past weeks, only the thin places are showing the soggy dark earth or the tuffs of grass. The deep snow has held on and has become crusty and fossilized. My heart is joyeous when I see the snow holding on so tenaciously! Wicked defiant joy would be the exact words. I had become so black when the November rains gush and poured through out the December. A childlike glee bubbled when old man winter came calling mid January and through out February. I like the fight the snow has made for me. I have found cold weather is great for my head. It feels the best in frigid cold ...
Thank You, Masterful Creator, for my snow! I hate to see it go but crocus are coming... What art You create just for my enjoyment. Thank You for romancing me.
Way to go March! Definitely in like a lion!
I wonder if the snow will go today. The weather has been above freezing but with the huge amount that came in the past weeks, only the thin places are showing the soggy dark earth or the tuffs of grass. The deep snow has held on and has become crusty and fossilized. My heart is joyeous when I see the snow holding on so tenaciously! Wicked defiant joy would be the exact words. I had become so black when the November rains gush and poured through out the December. A childlike glee bubbled when old man winter came calling mid January and through out February. I like the fight the snow has made for me. I have found cold weather is great for my head. It feels the best in frigid cold ...
Thank You, Masterful Creator, for my snow! I hate to see it go but crocus are coming... What art You create just for my enjoyment. Thank You for romancing me.
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
preparing for His Abundance ...
Preparing for His Abudance must mean that you are lacking something. So lets say I am lacking a husband so in this area I should begin to prepare for His Abundance. Almost sounds like I should be cleaning out the house, doesn't it? As I have been picking up in another area of my life like oraganizing my home, I need to open up space so that I have room to welcome in. Out with the old and in with the new.
There is an excitement when you begin to prepare. Daydreams become more frequent and I love daydreams. I believe this is the best way to treat yourself. You begin to see what is really important to you. You lavish yourself with all the best so maybe you won't be so quick to settle for less.
So what if you are waiting and waiting? Say that husband area has been bare for 30 some years, do you still prepare for His Abudance? Sure, I say yet as I do, I know I find it difficult to be confident here. I have been 'laying down my Isaac' almost daily. I am finding though that it isn't as hard as it use to be. This is scary too. It is like I'm I am giving up and settling for less. I have to retrain the brain because it is really letting go. I suppose if you get 'nit picky' giving up and letting go are two different things. Letting go is freeing.
I've noticed my vision is clearer. My eyes are more on Him and not on him. No man can out do God in the love and romance department. It is seeing what I have and not what I don't have. It is being satisfied and content. I am beloved by God. His purpose for me is confirmed by the passions, dreams, and talents He tucked into my heart when He created me. Like a proud Father, He is delighted when I succeed. How enjoyable that is to me.
I just had a thought! Maybe I got it all wrong with the letting go.... or maybe I need another step to complete the formula.
Letting go is allowing yourself to fall into God's waiting Almighty Arms!
There is an excitement when you begin to prepare. Daydreams become more frequent and I love daydreams. I believe this is the best way to treat yourself. You begin to see what is really important to you. You lavish yourself with all the best so maybe you won't be so quick to settle for less.
So what if you are waiting and waiting? Say that husband area has been bare for 30 some years, do you still prepare for His Abudance? Sure, I say yet as I do, I know I find it difficult to be confident here. I have been 'laying down my Isaac' almost daily. I am finding though that it isn't as hard as it use to be. This is scary too. It is like I'm I am giving up and settling for less. I have to retrain the brain because it is really letting go. I suppose if you get 'nit picky' giving up and letting go are two different things. Letting go is freeing.
I've noticed my vision is clearer. My eyes are more on Him and not on him. No man can out do God in the love and romance department. It is seeing what I have and not what I don't have. It is being satisfied and content. I am beloved by God. His purpose for me is confirmed by the passions, dreams, and talents He tucked into my heart when He created me. Like a proud Father, He is delighted when I succeed. How enjoyable that is to me.
I just had a thought! Maybe I got it all wrong with the letting go.... or maybe I need another step to complete the formula.
Letting go is allowing yourself to fall into God's waiting Almighty Arms!
joy strength
Here are some of Swindoll’s quotes … they might be paraphrases but good to keep:
the Joy of the Lord is my strength! - neh 8:10
You can’t complain if you are praying.
You can’t worry if you are singing.
It is easier to be a witness if you are a joyful believer.
It is easier to release all if you have joy.
the Joy of the Lord is my strength! - neh 8:10
soft heart ...
My eye stopped at ‘he who hardens his heart falls into trouble’ because for some reason I have this ache to be soft and probably is why I get so upset when I am angered. I repeated this phrase over and over to keep it close as the day unfolded. But I remembered the first part about a how a good man fears the Lord and had to figure out the puzzle. If a harden heart is opposite of a man’s fear of the Lord then the fear of the Lord must mean you need a soft heart! Now I really liked that. It affirms this ache to keep a soft heart about me… ‘’ let your gentleness be known to all men ‘’
Blessed is the man who always fears the Lord,
but he who hardens his heart falls into trouble.
prov 28:14
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
song, blush, land ...
1. Birds singing as I am rushing out the door for work. Geese honking as I search for their v-formation coming over the top of my apartment building. Harmonizing with the beloved hymns playing in my jeep. Praise the Lord, oh my soul, & all that is within me, Praise His Holy Name
2. Cleaning the big blush brush and watching the pink swirl in the white sink draining away, leaving black bristles looking like a wet hairy dejected puppy after his bath. Finding the next morning the blush brush softly whispering across the cheek leaving a perfect wisp of color behind.
3. Remembering a conversation {’woman is like a territory or land’} from a dear but faded friend and still gleaning new thought and learnings. Knowing my book-dream is still there and that a long gone gift can still have good returns.
2. Cleaning the big blush brush and watching the pink swirl in the white sink draining away, leaving black bristles looking like a wet hairy dejected puppy after his bath. Finding the next morning the blush brush softly whispering across the cheek leaving a perfect wisp of color behind.
3. Remembering a conversation {’woman is like a territory or land’} from a dear but faded friend and still gleaning new thought and learnings. Knowing my book-dream is still there and that a long gone gift can still have good returns.
Monday, February 26, 2007
Wild Heart's way ... part I
Jeremiah 6:16 has become a treasure scripture of mine and when John Eldredge used it to begin chapter one of his book called, “The Way of the Wild Heart”, I was intrigued.
I must say that he has begun his book with telling men that this is not aformula but rather a path that every man must take to be whole. There are six markers:
*Boyhood
*Cowboy
*Warrior
*Lover
*King
*Sage
I am still reading the book and have had some really powerful moments and I am wondering how I am going to get it all out! I am also looking at this with my girl-eyes and wondering what her path should look like spelled out. I think I am having some pretty good thoughts.
My dear friend told me that 'you can tell that the Bible was written by one BLOKE telling the story over and over again'. He called it the 'butterfly effect'. What it means is that if you look at the old testiment you see the stories repeated in the new testiment. What is your pet name for God? One of mine as you probably have heard me say over and over again is Heavenly Father. While I am reading this book I am seeing God my Heavenly Father in every Bible story with new eyes. My love for His Father figure has deepened even more.
Just today I realized there was a reason for Joseph, Jesus' earthly father, to have passed away before Jesus begain His ministry. It is to show every man who feels fatherless or feels that their father has let them down that they have no excuse. They have a Father or a King to come to for guidance and for fathering. Pretty powerful shake up - no excuse to whimp out.
This time the author makes sure his readers have the tools to heal up the wound. You, a man, is a beloved son. You have what it takes. You have the strength to use for good.
Not finished yet ... verrrrrrry powerful ... go read for yourself and see what you think...
meaning of life
I have been watching for this book after the first one called ‘Wild at Heart’ came out. I have been wondering if John would give some kind of hope after showing how every man alive has this big old hole in their heart!’’Stand at the crossroads & look
Ask for the ancient paths,
Ask where the good way is & walk in it
& you will find rest for your souls.’’
I must say that he has begun his book with telling men that this is not a
*Boyhood
*Cowboy
*Warrior
*Lover
*King
*Sage
I am still reading the book and have had some really powerful moments and I am wondering how I am going to get it all out! I am also looking at this with my girl-eyes and wondering what her path should look like spelled out. I think I am having some pretty good thoughts.
My dear friend told me that 'you can tell that the Bible was written by one BLOKE telling the story over and over again'. He called it the 'butterfly effect'. What it means is that if you look at the old testiment you see the stories repeated in the new testiment. What is your pet name for God? One of mine as you probably have heard me say over and over again is Heavenly Father. While I am reading this book I am seeing God my Heavenly Father in every Bible story with new eyes. My love for His Father figure has deepened even more.
Just today I realized there was a reason for Joseph, Jesus' earthly father, to have passed away before Jesus begain His ministry. It is to show every man who feels fatherless or feels that their father has let them down that they have no excuse. They have a Father or a King to come to for guidance and for fathering. Pretty powerful shake up - no excuse to whimp out.
This time the author makes sure his readers have the tools to heal up the wound. You, a man, is a beloved son. You have what it takes. You have the strength to use for good.
Not finished yet ... verrrrrrry powerful ... go read for yourself and see what you think...
meaning of life
Sunday, February 25, 2007
one lost ...
Heavenly Shepard,
You said You will go out and search for the one lost. You would leave the 99 in the fold or safe pasture just to go and find one who has lost his way.
I am lost. I've lost my way. I've lost my hope. I've lost my security. I've lost my joy. I'm a misfit. I've got sorrow in my bones. I've lost my sight. I've lost my hearing. Find me again.
I remember seeing You when I first started out on my own. There was just enough money and slowly over time the savings built up. Now my savings is slowing depleting. I am ok but I don't see You in the finances. Is it because I am ok or is it that I am just not seeing?
All week I have felt a great ... I can't even find a good word for this gloom... just a grey mass of some sort tugging down on my heart. I am always seeking You especially in Your sunrises or sunsets... I didn't feel You as much.
I haven't heard much from You ... I am reading a really powerful book. I've talked to You about it and I am seeking You but I haven't heard Your special Words here.
I probably did hear You but have so quickly forgotten. I probably did see You but have gotten so distracted. Find me. Catch me from falling into a dried up well.
To feel Your strong hand on the scruff on my neck... To feel Your Almighty Arms cradle me near to Your Heartbeat... To know the Great Husbandman loves me deeply ... To see Your nail pierced hands.... To be loved unconditionaly by You the Great Lover... To know that I am loved, valued, and important ... To feel Your undivided attention...
I want to feel all my sighs leave my sunken heart. I want to feel my soul puff up on Your warm love. I want to close my eyes and fall to sleep ...
Rest My lost sheep. I am here. Rest in My Words. Rest in Me... I love you, little one. I am here in your night. I watch over you. I am creating My Best in you. Shhhhhhhhhhhhhhh. Sleep, little one.
~Always Your Creator, Your Heavenly Father, Your Great Shephard, Your Great Husbandman & Lover
Ahh, I have misinterpreted! You said You will never ever leave me nor forsake me! Even if I feel lost or a misfit, You are right there quietly holding my hand and keeping me.... {sighs}
You said You will go out and search for the one lost. You would leave the 99 in the fold or safe pasture just to go and find one who has lost his way.
I am lost. I've lost my way. I've lost my hope. I've lost my security. I've lost my joy. I'm a misfit. I've got sorrow in my bones. I've lost my sight. I've lost my hearing. Find me again.
I remember seeing You when I first started out on my own. There was just enough money and slowly over time the savings built up. Now my savings is slowing depleting. I am ok but I don't see You in the finances. Is it because I am ok or is it that I am just not seeing?
All week I have felt a great ... I can't even find a good word for this gloom... just a grey mass of some sort tugging down on my heart. I am always seeking You especially in Your sunrises or sunsets... I didn't feel You as much.
I haven't heard much from You ... I am reading a really powerful book. I've talked to You about it and I am seeking You but I haven't heard Your special Words here.
I probably did hear You but have so quickly forgotten. I probably did see You but have gotten so distracted. Find me. Catch me from falling into a dried up well.
To feel Your strong hand on the scruff on my neck... To feel Your Almighty Arms cradle me near to Your Heartbeat... To know the Great Husbandman loves me deeply ... To see Your nail pierced hands.... To be loved unconditionaly by You the Great Lover... To know that I am loved, valued, and important ... To feel Your undivided attention...
I want to feel all my sighs leave my sunken heart. I want to feel my soul puff up on Your warm love. I want to close my eyes and fall to sleep ...
Rest My lost sheep. I am here. Rest in My Words. Rest in Me... I love you, little one. I am here in your night. I watch over you. I am creating My Best in you. Shhhhhhhhhhhhhhh. Sleep, little one.
~Always Your Creator, Your Heavenly Father, Your Great Shephard, Your Great Husbandman & Lover
'But the Eyes of the Lord are on those who fear Him,
on those whose hope is in His unfailing love,
to deliver them from death
& keep them alive in famine.
Ps 33:18-19
Ahh, I have misinterpreted! You said You will never ever leave me nor forsake me! Even if I feel lost or a misfit, You are right there quietly holding my hand and keeping me.... {sighs}
meaning of life ...
Ravi Zacharais (you can hear him via podcast!!) was answering the question on the meaning of life today on the broadcast. Ravi broke it down into 4 areas:
*wonder*
-as a child the world in new and big, their eyes light up and their little mouths are in the shape of an 'o'
*truth*
-teenagers are testing this world and what they have been taught, always searching for truth
*love*
-adults are wanting value, attention .. LoVe ... it seems to finish out who you are..
*security*
-as old age comes security is the roots that keep you
Ravi goes on to explain that all these needs are answered when you are saved by God. I believe this. But just now a question popped up. What about a believer who still questions one of these needs because they feel it intensely? Job lost his wonder and questioned God after his losses. God answered him with 64 questions ... all about the wonders of creation! I have question God on the third but I always reminded that humans fail, but not God. My heart settles down ... when I let go...
I wanted to share what Ravi had to say because I am reading a very interesting book on a path of a man. They relate... I will share the book here on llj soon ...
*wonder*
-as a child the world in new and big, their eyes light up and their little mouths are in the shape of an 'o'
*truth*
-teenagers are testing this world and what they have been taught, always searching for truth
*love*
-adults are wanting value, attention .. LoVe ... it seems to finish out who you are..
*security*
-as old age comes security is the roots that keep you
Ravi goes on to explain that all these needs are answered when you are saved by God. I believe this. But just now a question popped up. What about a believer who still questions one of these needs because they feel it intensely? Job lost his wonder and questioned God after his losses. God answered him with 64 questions ... all about the wonders of creation! I have question God on the third but I always reminded that humans fail, but not God. My heart settles down ... when I let go...
I wanted to share what Ravi had to say because I am reading a very interesting book on a path of a man. They relate... I will share the book here on llj soon ...
a slush day ...
There is an inch of slush out there but no ice accumulation on the trees. No church today. I was hoping for no church because I wanted to spend my morning seeking God on my own.. have my own church. It might get better later. I do hope I can get my 'pupinator fix' and be with family today =)
There is something special in having an unexpected morning all to yourself to spend as you please without any timetables set by others or society. Can't wait to set some dessert in the crockpot, read, and paint all the while praying without ceasing ...
Maybe I will have to declare more 'slush days' for myself ... it is like a mini vacation ....
There is something special in having an unexpected morning all to yourself to spend as you please without any timetables set by others or society. Can't wait to set some dessert in the crockpot, read, and paint all the while praying without ceasing ...
Maybe I will have to declare more 'slush days' for myself ... it is like a mini vacation ....
Saturday, February 24, 2007
giving away needs ...
How can you begin giving away what you need most in your life?
Well, I guess I would first have to start with my needs. Hmmm, I like to be loved and I know love has five aspects of action (words, quality time, service, gifts, touch) and a whole lot of presence (preparing, provision, proof, PRESENCE). Lately, I have been finding myself doing small stuff for my parents like cleaning up the kitchen or organizing a closet for them or even helping Dad move in the new family table. By coming up with ways to serve my parents, I have found contentment. I think it is really a happy way to love out and in turn feel loved by doing something special for others. Now I need to try it on others ... but always more like a hit and run ... with the only expectation of knowing that I loved and finding that as the only satisfaction I needed.
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
can you see Him?
*They moved and their old house is still on the market for over a year now. She was telling me that even though it feels like a heavy rock around her neck, she sees God in other areas of their life that this is just a timing issue and it will sell. Other marriages could not withstand something like this but in their marriage they encourage each other by putting the focus back on what God is doing in their lives. “If God is working in these areas of my life, then He is working in the house part of my life,” she said with confidence.
Yes! It is hard to know that we are God-Masterpieces and that He works quietly but efficiently and in the Best Time always working on the fine details of our lives.
*She was a mother of six children. She had a rough go with it but had finally gotten her life straight with God. Three of her kids were at the elementary school and one at the middle school while she was at home with two little ones. It has been extremely cold for several weeks and she depended on a space heater for some extra heat. Carbon dioxide got her as well as her two babies before the fire broke out. What is a comfort to her family is that she has Everlasting Life. What this young mother of 32 didn’t realize that by her quiet turn around that in her death she would touch others for God more than she could have ever dreamed her little life could. Truly a grand and bold living when we see with Heavenly eyes …
silver linings if you look!
Yes! It is hard to know that we are God-Masterpieces and that He works quietly but efficiently and in the Best Time always working on the fine details of our lives.
*She was a mother of six children. She had a rough go with it but had finally gotten her life straight with God. Three of her kids were at the elementary school and one at the middle school while she was at home with two little ones. It has been extremely cold for several weeks and she depended on a space heater for some extra heat. Carbon dioxide got her as well as her two babies before the fire broke out. What is a comfort to her family is that she has Everlasting Life. What this young mother of 32 didn’t realize that by her quiet turn around that in her death she would touch others for God more than she could have ever dreamed her little life could. Truly a grand and bold living when we see with Heavenly eyes …
silver linings if you look!
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
8 vital friends ...
Recently I have shut down all operations for understanding and making new friends. I have renewed efforts to maintain my old ones but just have throw up my hands and turned my back on present day trying …
Funny, how I still try to figure out this mystery of friendship. There in the 'new book' area at the library was a book called ‘Vital Friends’ by Tom Rath. So I thought I would pick it up and see what it said and if it would give me a different view point. This is a book more about a study done on having friends in the workplace and how it makes work a better place. Interesting concept and one I believe is true. I wonder how the author thinks this will go over with the bosses. I was quite surprised and taken aback out how some companies LIMIT the amount of contact you can have with other employees! I did NOT how bad it could be out there! Oh, one last point the author seemed to make is that you should have at least one friend covering each of the areas (small description below).
Ok, so I do have to share what I learned and also add my two cents. (sheepish smirk)
concepts from book :
A huge concept for me is that I focus too much on me. I have been always improving myself trying to be a better friend. Even though I thought I had detoxed from my addictive self help books and behavior, I had not cleared this out of my relational area. I don't think I've made the ‘rounding error’ of expecting my friends to be good at everything. Rather I think they should be just a tad more attentive something I think is very lacking in today's world. My wake up call is that I should be analyzing what is right with the relationship and what the other is bringing into the relationship.
The book breaks down into categories 8 traits of friendships:
Builder:
Motivators, pushing your strengths (coach)
Champion:
Stands up for you & what you believe in, your best advocates
Collaborator:
A friend w/ similar interests, familiar ground, foundation for lasting relationships (sames)
Companion:
Always there for you good or bad, can sense your thoughts, feelings, & actions (lifetime relationships)
Connector:
Bridge builder, networks, connecting others (hostess)
Energizer:
Fun friends, gives you the boost you need, lets you smile and laugh
Mind-Opener:
Expands your horizons & encourages you to embrace new ideas, opportunities, cultures, & people, knows how to ask good questions, & this makes you more receptive to ideas
Navigator:
Gives you advise & keeps you headed in the right direction, they help you know who you are & who you are not
my thoughts :
I like this list and have let my mind wonder through them. I have begun to look at people in my life and tagged them with one of the above. By doing so I know what they are bringing to me.
I believe there are opposites to each one like the ‘Builder’, I believe there is an Tear-down, ‘negatives’ would be my pet word. I have one in my life right know that I am at my wits end. So I working out in my mind how to build and possibly navigate him towards the positive. Well, this is all thoughts, don’t know if I am strong enough at the moment to withstand getting into the action with one so gloomy. No, he is not a friend but someone I have to put up with and would love to be able to keep my sunny side when he is around.
From this list I have the label of the friends I need in my life like a Collaborator Companion Builder Energizer. I am looking for someone who has a lot of sames because I am soooooo tired of feeling like a huge misfit. I want a team player who is playing for the team and not out for one because I really like doing things with someone and not by myself every moment of every day. I want someone to recognize my good stuff and love it and tell me about it. I want someone who knows how to refresh and revitalize all the good in me after a bad day.
Then to my surprise there are ones I do not care to have like the Mind-Opener. I am a Mind-Opener but I notice that others Mind-Openers tend to discredit my feelings or thoughts on the issue. They instead push their issues and beliefs. I am so tired of feeling inferior. I have jumped into life and had life lessons and am where I am today because I have been open to tasting life. I also like a healthy balance of limits or rules to keep me enjoying life to the fullest. I love to ask questions but here is where I get those Mind-Opener Mothers mothering me! Yikes! Get away from me! My feelings count and I would like to have some credit that I put the belly up to the table and pay attention. Not stupid here! I do have to give credit to a guy who was a great Mind-Opener for me. He listened and was able to steer me graciously by asking questions where I would answer all the while coming to another way of thinking. I felt secure and care for. I wasn’t discredited. Man, I miss him. I wanted to learn how he did that. I haven’t found another that could do it so well. Why do I tell you this? Because every one can be tagged by the list above but it takes someone pretty special to do it the right way or be tailored to suit the best in you. I know I want to be better ... opps there I go again focusing on self development
final thoughts :
This book is a guy writing out a theory and he is really on the right track. It is good for the reader to really work this out in their life. It is very important for all relationships to see the good the other brings to the table. There will be less break ups.
Funny, how I still try to figure out this mystery of friendship. There in the 'new book' area at the library was a book called ‘Vital Friends’ by Tom Rath. So I thought I would pick it up and see what it said and if it would give me a different view point. This is a book more about a study done on having friends in the workplace and how it makes work a better place. Interesting concept and one I believe is true. I wonder how the author thinks this will go over with the bosses. I was quite surprised and taken aback out how some companies LIMIT the amount of contact you can have with other employees! I did NOT how bad it could be out there! Oh, one last point the author seemed to make is that you should have at least one friend covering each of the areas (small description below).
Ok, so I do have to share what I learned and also add my two cents. (sheepish smirk)
concepts from book :
A huge concept for me is that I focus too much on me. I have been always improving myself trying to be a better friend. Even though I thought I had detoxed from my addictive self help books and behavior, I had not cleared this out of my relational area. I don't think I've made the ‘rounding error’ of expecting my friends to be good at everything. Rather I think they should be just a tad more attentive something I think is very lacking in today's world. My wake up call is that I should be analyzing what is right with the relationship and what the other is bringing into the relationship.
The book breaks down into categories 8 traits of friendships:
Builder:
Motivators, pushing your strengths (coach)
Champion:
Stands up for you & what you believe in, your best advocates
Collaborator:
A friend w/ similar interests, familiar ground, foundation for lasting relationships (sames)
Companion:
Always there for you good or bad, can sense your thoughts, feelings, & actions (lifetime relationships)
Connector:
Bridge builder, networks, connecting others (hostess)
Energizer:
Fun friends, gives you the boost you need, lets you smile and laugh
Mind-Opener:
Expands your horizons & encourages you to embrace new ideas, opportunities, cultures, & people, knows how to ask good questions, & this makes you more receptive to ideas
Navigator:
Gives you advise & keeps you headed in the right direction, they help you know who you are & who you are not
my thoughts :
I like this list and have let my mind wonder through them. I have begun to look at people in my life and tagged them with one of the above. By doing so I know what they are bringing to me.
I believe there are opposites to each one like the ‘Builder’, I believe there is an Tear-down, ‘negatives’ would be my pet word. I have one in my life right know that I am at my wits end. So I working out in my mind how to build and possibly navigate him towards the positive. Well, this is all thoughts, don’t know if I am strong enough at the moment to withstand getting into the action with one so gloomy. No, he is not a friend but someone I have to put up with and would love to be able to keep my sunny side when he is around.
From this list I have the label of the friends I need in my life like a Collaborator Companion Builder Energizer. I am looking for someone who has a lot of sames because I am soooooo tired of feeling like a huge misfit. I want a team player who is playing for the team and not out for one because I really like doing things with someone and not by myself every moment of every day. I want someone to recognize my good stuff and love it and tell me about it. I want someone who knows how to refresh and revitalize all the good in me after a bad day.
Then to my surprise there are ones I do not care to have like the Mind-Opener. I am a Mind-Opener but I notice that others Mind-Openers tend to discredit my feelings or thoughts on the issue. They instead push their issues and beliefs. I am so tired of feeling inferior. I have jumped into life and had life lessons and am where I am today because I have been open to tasting life. I also like a healthy balance of limits or rules to keep me enjoying life to the fullest. I love to ask questions but here is where I get those Mind-Opener Mothers mothering me! Yikes! Get away from me! My feelings count and I would like to have some credit that I put the belly up to the table and pay attention. Not stupid here! I do have to give credit to a guy who was a great Mind-Opener for me. He listened and was able to steer me graciously by asking questions where I would answer all the while coming to another way of thinking. I felt secure and care for. I wasn’t discredited. Man, I miss him. I wanted to learn how he did that. I haven’t found another that could do it so well. Why do I tell you this? Because every one can be tagged by the list above but it takes someone pretty special to do it the right way or be tailored to suit the best in you. I know I want to be better ... opps there I go again focusing on self development
final thoughts :
This book is a guy writing out a theory and he is really on the right track. It is good for the reader to really work this out in their life. It is very important for all relationships to see the good the other brings to the table. There will be less break ups.
Saturday, February 17, 2007
corn flour ...
A week past I was googling for recipes involving corn meal. I stumbled upon 'corn flour'. In all of my years I never knew what this was. You could not find in the local grocery store until recently because of the large popluation of latinos that are here now.
I am very hesitant when anything says flour because the first thing you think is flour from wheat. But rest asured, corn flour is made from corn. Corn flour is starchy which is good for baking. So I will be trying to bake some of my old favorites. I did try my favorite lemon bread with corn flour and oat flour. It isn't as sweet as what regular people would like, but it is soft and rises like a bread or cake should. I will try again when I can find agave.
Anyway back to the original reason I found and bought the corn flour for...
I wanted to make my own corn torilla! Wednesday I tried but when I rolled it out, it wanted to crack. You are suppose to use plastic. I tried plastic wrap and to get it as thin as you are suppose to, it stuck and would not come off. Then I tried tinfoil. Nope, same problem. I even used the bottom of the bowl to press it out. Again, a mess. I used pressed out in my hands as far as it would with out cracking. I fried them. Nothing like what you get in the store. The recipe did talk about a torilla press. I didn't know where I was going to get one.
Today on my mac apple run, I found a torilla press right there at Martins (neighorhood grocery store)! I got it. I tried it this afternoon. It worked. It did not work because I had a press but it worked because there was a thick piece of plastic for you to use in the press. I had perfect round corn torilla's that came off the plastic just so. I am keeping that plastic as long as I can. Very hard to find plastic thick like that. I am one happy girl right now. Finally, some working out right with my food allergies. I had my egg mcmuffin wrapped in a corn torilla. Now when mom has to have her homemade pizza's, she can without excluding me!
A note about my food allergys:
Is it going ok? Well, no .. because there has been a year long focus on foods, I seemed to be obsessed with keeping my foods around me. I have a tummy that is mad at me and I have the munchies because I just do. Not good. Then my own family finds it difficult to cook for me. Dad made the family favorite, chilli. He changed the beans so I could eat it. What he forgot was not to use the chilli powder. I had a spinach salad when I went out with Mom and Dad and the next day Mom is making me a salad asking me what I can have and not have. Well, not the lettuse! They can't win! Mom is always wanting pizza whenever she needs a quick meal when all of us are home!
I keep trying to make this work. I think winter eating is hard because I go to food to keep me warm .... The munchies is there because I am bothered even though I am joyful. My middle is bloated and very fussy. I just need to relax and let go...
I am very hesitant when anything says flour because the first thing you think is flour from wheat. But rest asured, corn flour is made from corn. Corn flour is starchy which is good for baking. So I will be trying to bake some of my old favorites. I did try my favorite lemon bread with corn flour and oat flour. It isn't as sweet as what regular people would like, but it is soft and rises like a bread or cake should. I will try again when I can find agave.
Anyway back to the original reason I found and bought the corn flour for...
I wanted to make my own corn torilla! Wednesday I tried but when I rolled it out, it wanted to crack. You are suppose to use plastic. I tried plastic wrap and to get it as thin as you are suppose to, it stuck and would not come off. Then I tried tinfoil. Nope, same problem. I even used the bottom of the bowl to press it out. Again, a mess. I used pressed out in my hands as far as it would with out cracking. I fried them. Nothing like what you get in the store. The recipe did talk about a torilla press. I didn't know where I was going to get one.
Today on my mac apple run, I found a torilla press right there at Martins (neighorhood grocery store)! I got it. I tried it this afternoon. It worked. It did not work because I had a press but it worked because there was a thick piece of plastic for you to use in the press. I had perfect round corn torilla's that came off the plastic just so. I am keeping that plastic as long as I can. Very hard to find plastic thick like that. I am one happy girl right now. Finally, some working out right with my food allergies. I had my egg mcmuffin wrapped in a corn torilla. Now when mom has to have her homemade pizza's, she can without excluding me!
A note about my food allergys:
Is it going ok? Well, no .. because there has been a year long focus on foods, I seemed to be obsessed with keeping my foods around me. I have a tummy that is mad at me and I have the munchies because I just do. Not good. Then my own family finds it difficult to cook for me. Dad made the family favorite, chilli. He changed the beans so I could eat it. What he forgot was not to use the chilli powder. I had a spinach salad when I went out with Mom and Dad and the next day Mom is making me a salad asking me what I can have and not have. Well, not the lettuse! They can't win! Mom is always wanting pizza whenever she needs a quick meal when all of us are home!
I keep trying to make this work. I think winter eating is hard because I go to food to keep me warm .... The munchies is there because I am bothered even though I am joyful. My middle is bloated and very fussy. I just need to relax and let go...
Friday, February 16, 2007
questions asked...
1. What are you most passionate about?
painting on glass, writing, my pups, my family, my home, joy, blue, journeys, adventures ...
2. What are the THREE things for which you are MOST thankful?
my faith, my family & pups, my deeeepest friendships
3. Other than your parents, who has been the most influential person in your life and why?
It would have to be God. He has been with me through the thick of it and I have found great and many wonders in Him like Joy! I was once named 'dark valley' but He has given me the name 'from the dark valley blooms Joyful one'. Because He filled my heart with creativity, I can delight and savor His Creation through the eyes of an artist.
4. The four things your friends say about you are:
Creative, Loyal, Good Listener, Quiet
5. What are three of your BEST life-skills?
*Finding creative solutions to everyday problems
*Remaining calm yet resilient during a crisis
*Being a good friend and companion
6. What is the most important quality that you are looking for in another person?
Someone who is not afraid of working hard for the relationship .. a hard working team player. Someone who is strong in dwelling in possibility. Someone who shows up and is willing to share the good times as well as the bad times. Someone who knows without a doubt that the sharing makes the relationship richer.
7. Other than your appearance, what is the first thing that people notice about you?
quiet person! It takes time for me to warm up to you but when I do .. surprise!
8. What is the ONE thing that people DON'T notice about you right away that you WISH they WOULD?
I am not some lost puppy in need of mothering! Asking questions is a way to figure out the next step...
9. How do you typically spend your leisure time?
painting, writing, reading, walking
10. What are five things that you "can't live without?"
JOY of the Lord, paint & glass, pen, imagination, CALM
11. Describe the last book that you read and enjoyed. What was it about? What did you like most about it?
*Tolkien's The Lord of the Ring series (not a book I would have normally read and was surprised! I love it)
*Captivating (painful to read but to understand the war on a woman's soul is powerful)
*The Barbarian Way (sparks off-roading with God)
*the Zone 'Diet' books (teaches you the balance of food)
*The Love Languages of God (real insight into how God uses our love language to love us and how we in turn love Him back)
*God Works the Night Shift (very powerful eye opening way to look at our dark nights - now hooked on all the author's (Ron Mehl) writings)
12. Describe one thing about yourself that only your best friends know.
Even though I ask why and have deep thoughts, empathy is a special gift that tugs at my heart. Like with all gifts, one must stay in awe of its power.
13. Is there any additional information you would like others to know about you?
I am very tenacious. I have warm expressive eyes. I have a lot of fire when it comes to those people or things passionate about. "Bright eyes gladden the heart" prov. 15:30
painting on glass, writing, my pups, my family, my home, joy, blue, journeys, adventures ...
2. What are the THREE things for which you are MOST thankful?
my faith, my family & pups, my deeeepest friendships
3. Other than your parents, who has been the most influential person in your life and why?
It would have to be God. He has been with me through the thick of it and I have found great and many wonders in Him like Joy! I was once named 'dark valley' but He has given me the name 'from the dark valley blooms Joyful one'. Because He filled my heart with creativity, I can delight and savor His Creation through the eyes of an artist.
4. The four things your friends say about you are:
Creative, Loyal, Good Listener, Quiet
5. What are three of your BEST life-skills?
*Finding creative solutions to everyday problems
*Remaining calm yet resilient during a crisis
*Being a good friend and companion
6. What is the most important quality that you are looking for in another person?
Someone who is not afraid of working hard for the relationship .. a hard working team player. Someone who is strong in dwelling in possibility. Someone who shows up and is willing to share the good times as well as the bad times. Someone who knows without a doubt that the sharing makes the relationship richer.
7. Other than your appearance, what is the first thing that people notice about you?
quiet person! It takes time for me to warm up to you but when I do .. surprise!
8. What is the ONE thing that people DON'T notice about you right away that you WISH they WOULD?
I am not some lost puppy in need of mothering! Asking questions is a way to figure out the next step...
9. How do you typically spend your leisure time?
painting, writing, reading, walking
10. What are five things that you "can't live without?"
JOY of the Lord, paint & glass, pen, imagination, CALM
11. Describe the last book that you read and enjoyed. What was it about? What did you like most about it?
*Tolkien's The Lord of the Ring series (not a book I would have normally read and was surprised! I love it)
*Captivating (painful to read but to understand the war on a woman's soul is powerful)
*The Barbarian Way (sparks off-roading with God)
*the Zone 'Diet' books (teaches you the balance of food)
*The Love Languages of God (real insight into how God uses our love language to love us and how we in turn love Him back)
*God Works the Night Shift (very powerful eye opening way to look at our dark nights - now hooked on all the author's (Ron Mehl) writings)
12. Describe one thing about yourself that only your best friends know.
Even though I ask why and have deep thoughts, empathy is a special gift that tugs at my heart. Like with all gifts, one must stay in awe of its power.
13. Is there any additional information you would like others to know about you?
I am very tenacious. I have warm expressive eyes. I have a lot of fire when it comes to those people or things passionate about. "Bright eyes gladden the heart" prov. 15:30
must haves/can't stands ...
Note: I developed this from a long list and could only pick 10 for each. It was difficult ... and at times I saw duplicates. It is a process everyone should think about and do. It is a good selfish. It is riding yourself of the fat suit you have accumalated and facing your naked self in the mirror. You know it is working if it hurts a bit.
Must Haves:
*Spirituality...
I must have someone with a similar deep commitment to spirituality, who shares my beliefs.
*Emotionally Healthy...
I must have a partner who is emotionally healthy, and able to share a stable life with someone else.
*Industriousness...
I must have someone who is willing to work hard at whatever they do.
*Loyal...
I must have someone I can count on to always support me.
*Communicator...
I must have someone who is good at talking and listening.
*Responsible...
My partner must be financially responsible.
*Exciting...
I must have someone who isn't afraid to take a risk and who sees life as an adventure.
*Curiosity...
I must have a partner who is hungry for new information and knowledge and who strives to learn as much as possible.
*Affectionate...
I must have someone who is comfortable giving and receiving affection.
*Conflict Resolver...
I must have a partner who will work to resolve rather than win arguments or conflicts within our relationship.
Can't Stand:
*Anger...
I can't stand someone who can't manage their anger, who yells, or bottles it up inside.
*Workaholic...
I can't stand someone who treats everything in life as secondary to their job.
*Rude...
I can't stand someone who is belittling, impatient or hateful to people in any situation.
*Materialistic...
I can't stand someone who sees material items as a measure of success.
*Cynicism...
I can't stand someone who generally sees the world from a cynical perspective.
*Undependable...
I can't stand someone who fails to come through and is unreliable.
*Drugs...
I can't stand someone who uses illegal recreational drugs.
*Lazy...
I can't stand someone who likes to spend excessive time sleeping, resting or being a "couch potato."
*Depressed...
I can't stand someone who is constantly unhappy about their life.
*Infidelity...
I can't stand someone who engages in sex outside a committed relationship.
I cringe when I read this because really I am weak just like every other person. There are a few of these that I have fallen down and struggle to get back up. These are strong statements and come off as being very cemented. Not all bad because even as I am weak, I must know my life and where it has been. It is very right to want the best when looking for a relationship. By having a list I feel you are one step better in knowing what kind of relationship you want and will give to another.
Must Haves:
*Spirituality...
I must have someone with a similar deep commitment to spirituality, who shares my beliefs.
*Emotionally Healthy...
I must have a partner who is emotionally healthy, and able to share a stable life with someone else.
*Industriousness...
I must have someone who is willing to work hard at whatever they do.
*Loyal...
I must have someone I can count on to always support me.
*Communicator...
I must have someone who is good at talking and listening.
*Responsible...
My partner must be financially responsible.
*Exciting...
I must have someone who isn't afraid to take a risk and who sees life as an adventure.
*Curiosity...
I must have a partner who is hungry for new information and knowledge and who strives to learn as much as possible.
*Affectionate...
I must have someone who is comfortable giving and receiving affection.
*Conflict Resolver...
I must have a partner who will work to resolve rather than win arguments or conflicts within our relationship.
Can't Stand:
*Anger...
I can't stand someone who can't manage their anger, who yells, or bottles it up inside.
*Workaholic...
I can't stand someone who treats everything in life as secondary to their job.
*Rude...
I can't stand someone who is belittling, impatient or hateful to people in any situation.
*Materialistic...
I can't stand someone who sees material items as a measure of success.
*Cynicism...
I can't stand someone who generally sees the world from a cynical perspective.
*Undependable...
I can't stand someone who fails to come through and is unreliable.
*Drugs...
I can't stand someone who uses illegal recreational drugs.
*Lazy...
I can't stand someone who likes to spend excessive time sleeping, resting or being a "couch potato."
*Depressed...
I can't stand someone who is constantly unhappy about their life.
*Infidelity...
I can't stand someone who engages in sex outside a committed relationship.
I cringe when I read this because really I am weak just like every other person. There are a few of these that I have fallen down and struggle to get back up. These are strong statements and come off as being very cemented. Not all bad because even as I am weak, I must know my life and where it has been. It is very right to want the best when looking for a relationship. By having a list I feel you are one step better in knowing what kind of relationship you want and will give to another.
if I could ask ...
1. When in a relationship, how much personal space do you generally find you need?
2. What is your opinion of committed long distance relationships?
3. How many years have you lived alone?
4. How trusting are you?
5. How would you assess your verbal intimacy skills?
Hmmmm, if I could ask only five questions to get to know the other gender, these are the ones I have picked. Funny to that these questions are really from really getting to know a 'him'.
I got to know this 'he' as a friend. It was finally finding someone who I could be safe with all my past childhood insecurities and finding that 'he' had the same insecurities too. We had a lot of sames and a bit of differences that would strengthen the us. He seemed to be able to socially interact and I think I could have brought the home that he was missing... I will never know how we would have mixed it up. He is gone. I believe the trusting me whether he knew it or not was his dent in his armor. He dismissed my presence ... not sure why ...
But these are my questions. They came from the best of us and the worst of us. Even in the friendship, I kept my growing love for him a secret. Even when he ask if I thought there would be a future for us! I almost slipped. But see I want a man who knows and goes after me. Do you know how I knew it was love? Because I knew that I would work for our love all my days and I wasn't going to give up because the work was to much...
2. What is your opinion of committed long distance relationships?
3. How many years have you lived alone?
4. How trusting are you?
5. How would you assess your verbal intimacy skills?
Hmmmm, if I could ask only five questions to get to know the other gender, these are the ones I have picked. Funny to that these questions are really from really getting to know a 'him'.
I got to know this 'he' as a friend. It was finally finding someone who I could be safe with all my past childhood insecurities and finding that 'he' had the same insecurities too. We had a lot of sames and a bit of differences that would strengthen the us. He seemed to be able to socially interact and I think I could have brought the home that he was missing... I will never know how we would have mixed it up. He is gone. I believe the trusting me whether he knew it or not was his dent in his armor. He dismissed my presence ... not sure why ...
But these are my questions. They came from the best of us and the worst of us. Even in the friendship, I kept my growing love for him a secret. Even when he ask if I thought there would be a future for us! I almost slipped. But see I want a man who knows and goes after me. Do you know how I knew it was love? Because I knew that I would work for our love all my days and I wasn't going to give up because the work was to much...
Thursday, February 15, 2007
unattended fires ...
I found this quote:
I started reading a book about friendships and I am not read to share what I have discovered but what caught my eye was that it isn't about fixing yourself to be a good friend but what this friend offers to the relationship. It is taking a different look and I am at the bottom and ready to look at from another angle...
Wow, is this true just to husbands or men? Couldn't this be true of any relationship? Hmmm, yeah. This makes a better quote said like this:Husbands are like fires. They go out when unattended.
Relationships are like fires. They go out when unattended.I've tried to keep the fires going but with all I tried, they fizzled out. I've have been in the reverse situation where I have been unattended and I fizzled out.
I started reading a book about friendships and I am not read to share what I have discovered but what caught my eye was that it isn't about fixing yourself to be a good friend but what this friend offers to the relationship. It is taking a different look and I am at the bottom and ready to look at from another angle...
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
God with Emmanuel
Emmanuel has a picture of a girl and kept that picture for six years always in hope that he would see her one day. ( I have a picture of someone special and I have memories. I have let go ... do I dare to hope?) Emmanuel is a 'lost boy' from the Sudan. In a Kenyan camp he noticed this girl. He couldn't help but drink her in. He couldn't get enough. He saw someone with a camera and beg to have their picture taken.
Emmanuel carried that picture (his most valuable luggage) in his Bible with him all the way to America. He went to college and went to Canada one Christmas to meet up with friends when he went into church. There was Veronica! Can you imagine? (We often talked about the day we would meet. I still think about how that would play out in different scenarios.) They married last year and are expecting their first child. She has a visa thanks to Oprah.
Do I hope again to meet him on this side of Heaven? I think I will let go and let God handle him. I will remind God of the faith Emmanuel (God with us) had in meeting Veronica... I believe you can let go and still hope. God may seem invisible but He is ever-working out His beauty and His fierceness in us...
Emmanuel & Veronica's Story
Emmanuel carried that picture (his most valuable luggage) in his Bible with him all the way to America. He went to college and went to Canada one Christmas to meet up with friends when he went into church. There was Veronica! Can you imagine? (We often talked about the day we would meet. I still think about how that would play out in different scenarios.) They married last year and are expecting their first child. She has a visa thanks to Oprah.
Do I hope again to meet him on this side of Heaven? I think I will let go and let God handle him. I will remind God of the faith Emmanuel (God with us) had in meeting Veronica... I believe you can let go and still hope. God may seem invisible but He is ever-working out His beauty and His fierceness in us...
Emmanuel & Veronica's Story
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
powder, wisps, 4x4
1. Snow so fine ... finer than powdered sugar but strong as fine glass particles ... blew in and rested on the dash as I climbed into my jeep for my morning blizzard commute. Maybe the snow powder rushed in to keep warm.
2. Straight white smokey wisps like ribbons blowing in a frenzied rush to cross the road before I can run over them. When I am past, the ribbons twist upwards in circles like they are trying to nip at my tires.
3. Thick silky snow has had its way with the roads and the plows cannot keep up. Getting home means using the 4x4. This much and this soft means the tires cannot eat at the snow like it normally does. There is some slippage but I feel the control kick in and keep me from flying off in a snowdrift. Bummer that I have to go through town with other drivers but to arrive at home safe and sound is a sigh and a gratiful prayer that my Heavenly Father was at the wheel with me.
The blinds are open and the candles lit so I can enjoy the gusty wind and snow. A snow day for tomorrow dance in my dreams as I tuck in for a long winter's nap...
2. Straight white smokey wisps like ribbons blowing in a frenzied rush to cross the road before I can run over them. When I am past, the ribbons twist upwards in circles like they are trying to nip at my tires.
3. Thick silky snow has had its way with the roads and the plows cannot keep up. Getting home means using the 4x4. This much and this soft means the tires cannot eat at the snow like it normally does. There is some slippage but I feel the control kick in and keep me from flying off in a snowdrift. Bummer that I have to go through town with other drivers but to arrive at home safe and sound is a sigh and a gratiful prayer that my Heavenly Father was at the wheel with me.
The blinds are open and the candles lit so I can enjoy the gusty wind and snow. A snow day for tomorrow dance in my dreams as I tuck in for a long winter's nap...
Friday, February 09, 2007
to capture a snowflake...
Woooo hoooo! I found out how to capture and keep a snowflake forever!!!!
step 1. Get two pieces of glass and when it is lightly snowing, go outside and let them fall on the piece of glass.
step 2. Then use Super Glue to encase the snowflakes. Then slap the two pieces of glass together.
step 3. Put in the freezer for a week. Then whala! Captured Snowflakes!
I will definitely have to try! And if you have a microscope, you could really get up close and personal!
I love snowflakes and would have loved to share this with ... sighs
step 1. Get two pieces of glass and when it is lightly snowing, go outside and let them fall on the piece of glass.
step 2. Then use Super Glue to encase the snowflakes. Then slap the two pieces of glass together.
step 3. Put in the freezer for a week. Then whala! Captured Snowflakes!
I will definitely have to try! And if you have a microscope, you could really get up close and personal!
I love snowflakes and would have loved to share this with ... sighs
Thursday, February 08, 2007
anger snare...
I find myself talking about anger a lot. I seem to be a calm person on the outside yet I know of this fire that can spring up very quickly and blistery. I hate arguing and raised voices. I would rather be calm, cool, and collected. Tone of voice, complaining, someone telling me 'speak up, I can't hear you' or 'what did you say?', having to repeat myself, and the obvious not listening or not getting what I am trying to say burns a white hot within my heart. I crave for peace and calm. I like myself best when composed.Make no friendship with an angry man,
& with a furious man do not go,
Lest you learn his ways
& set a snare for your soul.
~prov 22:24 & 25
I admire coaches who know how to direct their teams with quiet voice. Tony Dungy begins his season by saying to his football players that his voice will be no louder than this and look at the respect he gets. Both Tony Dungy and Lovie Smith are strong coaches that do not yell or throw their tempers about the place.
How do I master the anger when it comes? Does this anger that burns serve me? What is my vision for my heart and life?
Heavenly Father,
There has been movement again about anger within me this past week. Today I was convicted strongly and I have to confess that I am lacking in self control with my telephone skills. Please forgive me. With You I can conquer this area that I am failing at. Just like the break through with learning how to engage others, I know You can break through in this area bringing me through. Those around me see my sunshine and now my vision for my telephone peeps to see the sunshine.
I tried the engaging and apologitic skills this afternoon and saw some break through... now I need to keep it up. It will be hard and I need You every moment. My heart is ready to break free from the anger snare. Thank You for not giving up on me!
~always trying
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
embraced forever...
I think I am a lover and a romantic. Yes, give me the ooooooowy goooowy yummmy sticky hubba hubba. Even as I say this I know true love is hard work but give me that too!!! Not afraid.
Being a very visual learner, I have to share my excitement over a rather interesting picture. A man and a woman preserved love by their final moments on earth forever. Eyes locked on eyes and arms in tender touch and legs intertwined ... Cannot help but be encouraged! Yeah, call me wierd. I do not care!
Being a very visual learner, I have to share my excitement over a rather interesting picture. A man and a woman preserved love by their final moments on earth forever. Eyes locked on eyes and arms in tender touch and legs intertwined ... Cannot help but be encouraged! Yeah, call me wierd. I do not care!
Monday, February 05, 2007
things vs people
memo to self:
Remember that when THINGS break down NOT to get bogged down in the frustration but to remember the PEOPLE surrounding the things. Always question yourelf: Thing or person? Am I using the thing to promote God's love, joy, peace, security towards the person? Ultimately, you are either proving God or the little gods (idols).
Thinking like this allows me not to put limits on God and to keep my people connections open and free of debris from the wreakage of things...
things I
Remember that when THINGS break down NOT to get bogged down in the frustration but to remember the PEOPLE surrounding the things. Always question yourelf: Thing or person? Am I using the thing to promote God's love, joy, peace, security towards the person? Ultimately, you are either proving God or the little gods (idols).
Thinking like this allows me not to put limits on God and to keep my people connections open and free of debris from the wreakage of things...
things I
Sunday, February 04, 2007
29 - 17 !!!
Woooohooooooo!!!! The colts did it and I am happy happy! Was a bit nerveous when da Bears made their touch down the very first grab of the football but like the Colts they started slow and sure and steady all the way through!!!! Way to go!!!
Again the credit was given to God not in the usual hollywood way but a real way. It was awesome to see two quiet coaches and friends conduct themselves with such a calm that garnish great respect. It made me want to renew my own efforts to control the fires that rage at times within.
One proud hometown fan here. {beaming}
a note ...
There have been some deaths of football players outside night clubs etc... I heard over the weekend that both teams had a lot of respect for their coaches, they were not going to put themselves in any kind of bad behavior. How cool is that?
colts vs bears
Again the credit was given to God not in the usual hollywood way but a real way. It was awesome to see two quiet coaches and friends conduct themselves with such a calm that garnish great respect. It made me want to renew my own efforts to control the fires that rage at times within.
One proud hometown fan here. {beaming}
a note ...
There have been some deaths of football players outside night clubs etc... I heard over the weekend that both teams had a lot of respect for their coaches, they were not going to put themselves in any kind of bad behavior. How cool is that?
colts vs bears
rumors of war ...
My spirit gets weak and weepy as war has filled up every page of every day. Through tears and prayers I view the world as I hide out for rest in my space. Then last night Billy Graham had an old 'classic' sermon on that really gave me a peace. I cannot say the words he said exactly so bear with my telling ...
Rumors of war and war will be an every day occurrence.
so no peace?
Peace comes on in Him.
what about peace on earth?
Peace on earth was Jesus born to us.
so no peaceful days?
You ask the wrong questions. Peace is only found by putting your life in God's. You are promised and given Everlasting Peace so you can live in the days of rumors of wars and war. Peace will rule in the end. Good will triumph over evil. And after the Final Battle, Peace as you wish now will be forever.
Dear Almighty Warrior & Prince of Peace,
I feel much better. I was out of focus a bit. I have Peace living in me every day. By keeping my eyes You, the Prince of Peace, I can live in war and rumors of war. No, it doesn't mean that I carry peace signs. I have a battle to fight and prepare for no matter if physical or spiritual. I always knew I had a fighter's spirit....
~always Yours
Rumors of war and war will be an every day occurrence.
so no peace?
Peace comes on in Him.
what about peace on earth?
Peace on earth was Jesus born to us.
so no peaceful days?
You ask the wrong questions. Peace is only found by putting your life in God's. You are promised and given Everlasting Peace so you can live in the days of rumors of wars and war. Peace will rule in the end. Good will triumph over evil. And after the Final Battle, Peace as you wish now will be forever.
Dear Almighty Warrior & Prince of Peace,
I feel much better. I was out of focus a bit. I have Peace living in me every day. By keeping my eyes You, the Prince of Peace, I can live in war and rumors of war. No, it doesn't mean that I carry peace signs. I have a battle to fight and prepare for no matter if physical or spiritual. I always knew I had a fighter's spirit....
~always Yours
Saturday, February 03, 2007
Colts vs Bears
I am not a football fan. I like soccer and love hockey but I do not just sit around watching them. I will keep a running knowledge of wins and loses of teams around me, but no, to really sitting down to them unless there is an important game like the two teams from your back yard playing tomorrow at the SuperBowl. I probably will watch {sleepish smile}
I can remember back when in the late '80's the Bears and their SuperBowl Shuffle Song and Dance they did. I remember paying attention those games and watching of few. Love Walter Paton and Refrigerater Perry. So having them win a bid to go to the SuperBowl was pretty cool.
I like Manning on the Colts side and Dungy the Coach. Manning and the Colts have been trying to get past them Patriots for a couple of years now. Very happy to see him succeed this time.
I like the fact that the Bear's coach and the Colt's coach are friends. Love the fact that Dungy is a Believer. And it is pretty cool to have teams from near you able to make it in the BigGime.
Well, to the Bears your biggest fans are going to be huddled in blankets watching it on big screens cuz it is snowing back here as you play in warm Florida. And to the Colts, woohooo for home town pride!
I have no favorites to win so the game better be a nail biter all the way through.....
Just think two weeks ago the Bears where fighting it in snow on their own terf and the Colts was in a nail bitter - I couldn't stand to watch... this week total enjoyment ... well, honestly I might be leaning for a Colts win.... hey, can both win? Both making it to the SuperBowl is a win win, right? well, I will settle if only it is a nail bitter....
I can remember back when in the late '80's the Bears and their SuperBowl Shuffle Song and Dance they did. I remember paying attention those games and watching of few. Love Walter Paton and Refrigerater Perry. So having them win a bid to go to the SuperBowl was pretty cool.
I like Manning on the Colts side and Dungy the Coach. Manning and the Colts have been trying to get past them Patriots for a couple of years now. Very happy to see him succeed this time.
I like the fact that the Bear's coach and the Colt's coach are friends. Love the fact that Dungy is a Believer. And it is pretty cool to have teams from near you able to make it in the BigGime.
Well, to the Bears your biggest fans are going to be huddled in blankets watching it on big screens cuz it is snowing back here as you play in warm Florida. And to the Colts, woohooo for home town pride!
I have no favorites to win so the game better be a nail biter all the way through.....
Just think two weeks ago the Bears where fighting it in snow on their own terf and the Colts was in a nail bitter - I couldn't stand to watch... this week total enjoyment ... well, honestly I might be leaning for a Colts win.... hey, can both win? Both making it to the SuperBowl is a win win, right? well, I will settle if only it is a nail bitter....
blizzard warning ... !?
THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE ... HAS ISSUED A WINTER STORM WARNING... WHICH IS IN EFFECT FROM 9 AM THIS MORNING TO MIDNIGHT TONIGHT. A WIND CHILL ADVISORY HAS ALSO BEEN ISSUED. THIS WIND CHILL ADVISORY IS IN EFFECT FROM MIDNIGHT TONIGHT TO Noon MONDAY.
STRONG WEST WINDS WITH GUSTS TO NEAR 35 MPH WILL DEVELOP BY LATE MORNING AND CAUSE LAKE EFFECT SNOW AND SIGNIFICANT BLOWING AND DRIFTING SNOW. WITH A DEEP SNOW PACK ALREADY IN PLACE THE EFFECTS OF THE WIND WILL BE EXTREME... ESPECIALLY IN OPEN AREAS. NORTH SOUTH ROADS IN RURAL AREAS WILL BECOME NEARLY IMPASSABLE.
VISIBILITIES WILL BE REDUCED AT TIMES TO ZERO.
FURTHERMORE... WIND CHILL TEMPERATURES AROUND 15 BELOW ZERO WILL MAKE BECOMING STRANDED IN A DITCH A LIFE AND DEATH SITUATION. NOT ONLY FOR YOU BUT FOR RESCUE PERSONNEL.
PROLONGED EXTREMELY COLD WIND CHILL TEMPERATURES OF 15 TO 25 BELOW ZERO CAN BE EXPECTED TO CONTINUE UNTIL MIDDAY MONDAY.
WHILE THE SNOWFALL WILL BE NEARLY IMPOSSIBLE TO MEASURE DUE TO BLOWING... 2 TO 3 INCHES CAN BE EXPECTED BY LATE TONIGHT.
A WINTER STORM WARNING MEANS SIGNIFICANT AMOUNTS OF SNOW... SLEET... AND ICE ARE EXPECTED OR OCCURRING. STRONG WINDS ARE ALSO POSSIBLE. THIS WILL MAKE TRAVEL VERY HAZARDOUS OR IMPOSSIBLE.
A WIND CHILL ADVISORY MEANS THAT VERY COLD AIR AND STRONG WINDS WILL COMBINE TO GENERATE LOW WIND CHILLS. THIS WILL RESULT IN FROST BITE AND LEAD TO HYPOTHERMIA IF PRECAUTIONS ARE NOT TAKEN. IF YOU MUST VENTURE OUTDOORS... MAKE SURE YOU WEAR A HAT AND GLOVES.
` * ` * ` * ` * ` * The tv is declaring a blizzard warning but the National Weather service is tamed down.
I lived through the blizzard of '78 and have fond memories of it and the things we did as a family. So when I heard there is a blizzard warning, I was surprised because we aren't getting much snow but a whole lot of wind. The wind is making the snow that we do have look like a white winter sand storm with twirls of snow and wide whisps of blowing grains of snow. Pretty cool to take in. I will give you updates if we do get some snow with this and yipppeee for blizzard only if I can craft away (and keep warm) without going into work on Monday!!!!
Oh, I had to laugh with the bit of mother talk posted up there 'MAKE SURE YOU WEAR A HAT AND GLOVES'. Sorry, that won't do. Needs to be more gruff. MAKE SURE YOU DOUBLE UP ON YOUR CLOTHING. I'VE BEEN WEARING LONG JOHNS ALL WEEK AND DOUBLE MITTENS EXTRA. Well, a hat would do wonders or ear muffs. I haven't done that yet. I don't like messing up the hair!!!
For all you who complain about the winter, I smile. You must enjoy or you will freeze up like a icicle!!!
STRONG WEST WINDS WITH GUSTS TO NEAR 35 MPH WILL DEVELOP BY LATE MORNING AND CAUSE LAKE EFFECT SNOW AND SIGNIFICANT BLOWING AND DRIFTING SNOW. WITH A DEEP SNOW PACK ALREADY IN PLACE THE EFFECTS OF THE WIND WILL BE EXTREME... ESPECIALLY IN OPEN AREAS. NORTH SOUTH ROADS IN RURAL AREAS WILL BECOME NEARLY IMPASSABLE.
VISIBILITIES WILL BE REDUCED AT TIMES TO ZERO.
FURTHERMORE... WIND CHILL TEMPERATURES AROUND 15 BELOW ZERO WILL MAKE BECOMING STRANDED IN A DITCH A LIFE AND DEATH SITUATION. NOT ONLY FOR YOU BUT FOR RESCUE PERSONNEL.
PROLONGED EXTREMELY COLD WIND CHILL TEMPERATURES OF 15 TO 25 BELOW ZERO CAN BE EXPECTED TO CONTINUE UNTIL MIDDAY MONDAY.
WHILE THE SNOWFALL WILL BE NEARLY IMPOSSIBLE TO MEASURE DUE TO BLOWING... 2 TO 3 INCHES CAN BE EXPECTED BY LATE TONIGHT.
A WINTER STORM WARNING MEANS SIGNIFICANT AMOUNTS OF SNOW... SLEET... AND ICE ARE EXPECTED OR OCCURRING. STRONG WINDS ARE ALSO POSSIBLE. THIS WILL MAKE TRAVEL VERY HAZARDOUS OR IMPOSSIBLE.
A WIND CHILL ADVISORY MEANS THAT VERY COLD AIR AND STRONG WINDS WILL COMBINE TO GENERATE LOW WIND CHILLS. THIS WILL RESULT IN FROST BITE AND LEAD TO HYPOTHERMIA IF PRECAUTIONS ARE NOT TAKEN. IF YOU MUST VENTURE OUTDOORS... MAKE SURE YOU WEAR A HAT AND GLOVES.
I lived through the blizzard of '78 and have fond memories of it and the things we did as a family. So when I heard there is a blizzard warning, I was surprised because we aren't getting much snow but a whole lot of wind. The wind is making the snow that we do have look like a white winter sand storm with twirls of snow and wide whisps of blowing grains of snow. Pretty cool to take in. I will give you updates if we do get some snow with this and yipppeee for blizzard only if I can craft away (and keep warm) without going into work on Monday!!!!
Oh, I had to laugh with the bit of mother talk posted up there 'MAKE SURE YOU WEAR A HAT AND GLOVES'. Sorry, that won't do. Needs to be more gruff. MAKE SURE YOU DOUBLE UP ON YOUR CLOTHING. I'VE BEEN WEARING LONG JOHNS ALL WEEK AND DOUBLE MITTENS EXTRA. Well, a hat would do wonders or ear muffs. I haven't done that yet. I don't like messing up the hair!!!
For all you who complain about the winter, I smile. You must enjoy or you will freeze up like a icicle!!!
Friday, February 02, 2007
things ...
O, the accumulation of things! Of late I have had this mental banter if something is not useful then it is time for it to go. Why go through the headache of it. It has tormented me and kept me from the peace and calm I crave. Like my iMac slowing up, I updated (& is much better) but I was getting close to throwing out! Now it is my jeep that I am having some evil thoughts!
Then I heard about how these parents raised their kids with the best concept about things. They taught them to ask ‘if the THING was a tool or an idol?’ I liked that because it deepened my own thinking on how I should deal with my things. Am I using my things for the advancement of the kingdom or am I overwhelmed with technology or gadgets that takes my peace and my calm especially when they crash and burn? Am I using the gadgets to give love or touch others? Am I using things to bolster my passion for living a Godly life and being God-Confident? If not, then the item stays on the shelf or the item gets donated. It isn’t just about giving out but can give you means to keep yourself covered and cared for. It is about the clear vision of whether or not you are enslaved or free. This comforts me as I deal with my jeep problems. I feel my hand opening up and my heart calmer. It is God's gift and He sees fit to give or take according to my needs...
God is my Keeper. By His Hand will I be defended and secured. He takes care of the sparrow so much so that He is mindful of my needs. I need not get bogged in the mud as I baha in my jeep…
Then I heard about how these parents raised their kids with the best concept about things. They taught them to ask ‘if the THING was a tool or an idol?’ I liked that because it deepened my own thinking on how I should deal with my things. Am I using my things for the advancement of the kingdom or am I overwhelmed with technology or gadgets that takes my peace and my calm especially when they crash and burn? Am I using the gadgets to give love or touch others? Am I using things to bolster my passion for living a Godly life and being God-Confident? If not, then the item stays on the shelf or the item gets donated. It isn’t just about giving out but can give you means to keep yourself covered and cared for. It is about the clear vision of whether or not you are enslaved or free. This comforts me as I deal with my jeep problems. I feel my hand opening up and my heart calmer. It is God's gift and He sees fit to give or take according to my needs...
God is my Keeper. By His Hand will I be defended and secured. He takes care of the sparrow so much so that He is mindful of my needs. I need not get bogged in the mud as I baha in my jeep…
Thursday, February 01, 2007
Orange jumbo, hair, little flakes
1. Taking one orange jumbo jelly bean and savoring the flavor burst in my mouth is purely a simple joy now that I cannot gorge myself on sugar. Having this food allergy now allows me the opportunity not to overwhelm my taste buds with overload of sugar rather it gives me a time out to enjoy the first taste of an old love.
2. My love hate relationship with my hair has calmed. I am more patient and relaxed with it. I am not always cutting it every time it doesn’t feel just right. I have always loved its softness and even now with the silver lining peaking through the soft browns, I can feel graceful with how I deal with my hair. I still do not like hearing comments on my hair because the psycho babble in my head goes crazy.
3. There was light snow this morning. After swishing off the windshield I stopped and noticed the tiniest snowflakes. So small and so detailed… so beautifully created. I smiled because I know intimately the Creator and His handiwork is the finest and the richest. Tonight when I went home for the day, the snow was coming down so slowly like a real live snowglobe. Catching snoflakes on my sleeve to soak in the fluffiest smallest detail made time stop.
2. My love hate relationship with my hair has calmed. I am more patient and relaxed with it. I am not always cutting it every time it doesn’t feel just right. I have always loved its softness and even now with the silver lining peaking through the soft browns, I can feel graceful with how I deal with my hair. I still do not like hearing comments on my hair because the psycho babble in my head goes crazy.
3. There was light snow this morning. After swishing off the windshield I stopped and noticed the tiniest snowflakes. So small and so detailed… so beautifully created. I smiled because I know intimately the Creator and His handiwork is the finest and the richest. Tonight when I went home for the day, the snow was coming down so slowly like a real live snowglobe. Catching snoflakes on my sleeve to soak in the fluffiest smallest detail made time stop.
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