Epiphany

Yeah, I think I had an epiphany this week.

I've always considered myself a good listener. I believe it's a gift God has bestowed upon me. I can be a sounding board. I will make the proper sympathetic sounds, encourage you to find the answer, love you, and be there anytime you need to talk. So what was my epiphany? Being a good listener is nothing more than a copout for me. If I just listen then I won't have to challenge you, or myself for that matter.

For a LOOOOOONG time I have prayed for wisdom and insight and discernment. I actually looked up what wisdom and discernment meant. Wisdom is, in essence, common sense. Discernment is knowing something hidden. I recently read the passage where Solomon asks God for wisdom. Well, that's how I always learned it, anyway. He asked for WISDOM. However, the NIV actually says he asked for a discerning heart. A heart that seeks to understand God's will. Wow. Yeah. That's what I want!

And then I read The Message's translation. Solomon asked for a God-listening heart.

Solomon then used that gift to rule God's people. He let them in on what he heard from God.

How do I know that God has granted me wisdom and insight, a God-listening heart if you will, if I won't open my trap?!

*sigh*

Wow - somewhere along the way I posted for the 300th time. Didn't know I had it in me...or that I decided to throw it out for the world to see!

Things are okay around here. Trying to amuse the children is getting old REALLY fast. Trying to encourage our elder due to his current scholastic status is wearing thin. Preparing for the annual family reunion this weekend is frightening because it's come upon us so fast. Figuring out something special for my wonderful husband for both Father's Day and his birthday has me stymied. Stitching on these #$)@(*% angels is tap dancing all over my last nerve.

Other than that, it's all good.

A mile in my shoes?

I will admit it. Proudly, even. Although, geographically, I should be considered a Yankee - in my heart and heritage, I am all HICK! You can thank my grandmother - I do! She was born and raised in the Smoky Mountains, came from a coal mining family, married young into another coal mining family, one leg's shorter than the other from walking on the side of the mountains - LOL! I can very easily fall into a thick Southern drawl. I know how far "yonder" is, and I know when to stop when I've gone "a fer piece." And I am barefoot whenever possible. Seasons don't matter. I've been known to go to my car in the dead of winter, snow on the ground, with no shoes on. (What's your point?)

As a result of this penchant for shoelessness, my feet aren't really attractive. They're tough. They have rough spots. They are callused. Calluses formed from doing the same things repeatedly, and not taking care of the damage immediately. I hate those calluses! they are ugly and, well, just plain gross! When they get too much for me, I will attempt to remove them with a razor or something else which, especially in my hands, is dangerously sharp. Let's just say I'll never be a foot model.

I was reading in Deutoronomy today. Chapter 30, verse 6 says: "GOD, your God, will cut away the thick calluses on your heart...freeing you to love GOD, your God, with your whole heart and soul and live, really live." (The Message) I'd never thought about my heart being callused, but the more I meditated, the more I realized how thick and tough and impenetrable my heart can sometimes be. Life has bombarded my heart. Each blow has caused a place on my heart to harden in an effort to protect itself. This verse tells me that I can't remove the thick covering which is, in essence, suffocating my heart - He must do it. And since I've done the same things repeatedly, and the calluses are so thick and dense, He'll have to cut it away. Once that faulty "protection" is gone, I will be free! Life will still bombard my heart with pain and fear and disappointment, but HE will protect me. HE will shield my heart much more effectively than anything I can do on my own. And my heart will remain soft and tender. I wouldn't mind being able to model that...

Friday

So it's the weekend. Finally. I've not had a great week - not feeling the best. Work has been okay. My co-worker is back again. She seems to be doing pretty well. I felt like I had held down the proverbial fort pretty well while she was gone, but I guess I could have done better. At least that's how I felt.

I don't know what it is - just not feeling myself. It's been kind of a frustrating week for me.

I started a 61-day Bible survey study yesterday. Highlights of each book. Read about Abraham yesterday - and it was the verses that confound me a whole lot! Just don't understand why they're kinda stuck in where they are, and what they're trying to teach, what God was doing what He was doing - all of which added to my frustration of the week. Oh well, I'll keep praying for enlightenment.

Have a good weekend, everyone.

Saturday

Allen and the boys took me out to one of my favorite restaurants last night, and then we went to a movie - it was so nice just to go out and relax! Tonight we may be going to listen to Allen's saxophone teacher play at a local coffe house.

Got a call from my father of all people today. Just calling to wish me a happy birthday. And while that's all well and good, it irritated me that he called last night too, and kinda got on my case about me not being home. Hello!?! My birthday - going out with the fam! He still didn't mention the fact that his wife passed away. Sheesh!

So yeah, yesterday was my birthday - one before a milestone, too. My grandmother told me that this was my last one - that I wasn't going to have anymore because I didn't want that "other number" to be in my age. Actually, I'm okay with my age. I had no problem letting people know. Most people (bless their hearts) don't believe that I am as old as I am. Sweet!

I had considered making something to take in to work Friday, but there was pretty much only me there, so no use in making something for me...

Back to the laundry, I guess. Happy Memorial Day, everyone - and hey, take Monday off!

...you can't go home again...

It's been simply amazing to discover how many people I know that now work in the same general place that I do. People I didn't realize work there. People I haven't seen since Allen and I got married. People who have dropped out of my life for some reason. I recently discovered a couple working here that fall into that last category. We were - I thought - very good friends. We cat-sat, they baby-sat. We vacationed together once. They were very involved in the life of our elder son, even going so far as to keep him overnight when we went to the hospital to have our younger son. So, what happened? Younger son was born in July, and they just kinda fell out of our lives. By Halloween, it was pretty obvious that something was very wrong. I couldn't get it out of her - just lots of hemming and hawing and nervous laughter. Then they announced they were moving across country. Wow. Okay.

That was nearly a decade ago, and they've been back here for a number of years, now, and haven't tried to contact us. I think I may have a clue as to why they may have dropped us. I think that we were to them like some people a couple of years ago were to us. I think we became too dependent, too needy, too too, and speaking now from our experience, that's too too too much.

When I first found out they were back in town, I actually went so far as to write a letter, explaining my theory, and apologizing. I never sent it. I don't know why. I'm torn now as to whether or not to drop them an email at work. I don't think I will, though. I'm not hurt so much anymore. I think I've just moved on. I will always think of them as friends, and treasure the times we spent together so long ago, but I don't think we could ever go back to that kind of friendship.
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Please be praying for my co-worker/trainer. Her father, who had been very ill for a long time, passed away Friday. She was his primary care-giver. She lost her mom within the last year as well, and I know this is a very difficult time for her.

De-lurking

Yes, yes, I know - I need to get here more often!

I was thinking about how much free time I had at my old job - TOO much, now that I think about it. And I spent that time on the 'net. Reading blogs, reading news, reading ads on the bay of evil. I can say with a great deal of confidence that I probably checked around fifty blogs every day. Yikes!

But now, since I'm too afraid to get online at work, and getting online at home often takes more effort and time than I'm willing to give, I notice that my online habits have been greatly curtailed. I've also observed that my blog reading has diminished tremendously. It's almost like the cream has risen to the top - and I'm only reading blogs that mean the most to me, that encourage me. And although I may not comment, know that I'm still checking, and thanks!

Thursday already?

I'm still here! Just really busy, and too new at work to even THINK about accessing anything on the web! Not gonna do it! So, you'll just have to wait until I get home in the evenings to hear about the job! (Yeah, I know you're all out there waiting with bated breath...)

Actually, the job is going pretty well. The woman training me is very nice, if a little distracted by some stuff at home. I am starting to get a handle on the layout of my floor, but I'm still overwhelmed with the idea that there are around 300 people there! Just on my floor! And it's even more overwhelming remembering that I am coming into this from an office of 6 on a busy day! Eep!

It would be so easy to drown in my introvertedness! But I'm really surprised at what the Lord is providing for me in terms of, well, of personality! I know that sounds weird, but I have felt incredibly comfortable for the most part around these new people. I've even been known to crack a few jokes - lol! (But I am trying to keep a short leash on the sarcasm...!) God has been blessing me with confidence and openness. Sometimes, I kinda step back and watch myself and think, "Wow - I know her - and that MUST be God working!" So, thanks for that, Lord!

It's been so nice to meet old friends. Today I had lunch with my matron of honor - someone I hadn't seen or talked to in years. I also had another friend visit me this morning - just to check on me! Yesterday, two other brothers came by to see how I liked being there. I've been getting emails from some of the sisters - suffice it to say my social life has improved! LOL!

So, I guess in spite of my initial rejection of the whole idea of a new job, God has been showing me that - for once, at least - I may have actually done the right thing!

Day 1

...breathe in...breathe out...

I am so overwhelmed at the sheer size of my new place of employment! Crikey! It's HUGE!!! Especially since I'm coming out of an office of 6 people on a busy day. *whew*

So. I get to work at an INSANE hour of the morning - one that I thought existed only in legend, by the way - and discover that this will now be the norm of my life. I was shuffled and shuttled (yeah, I got to do that too), was introduced and interviewed, walked and walked and walked and walked and...well, you get the idea. My mentor is a sweetheart, so I think (I hope!) I'm on the way to making a new friend. Everyone was very happy for me when they found out I was to be working with her. As someone told me - "You're in good hands!" Umm - not at THIS company!! LOL!

I had happy welcome emails awaiting me this morning, and I managed to respond to a couple of them without sending them company-wide. I didn't blow anything up, I didn't set anything aflame, I didn't make the boss mad - all in all, a pretty decent day!

Can't wait to see what tomorrow brings...

Perspective

I will admit it. My focus hasn't exactly been where it should have been this week - it's been busy, I've been training and being trained, packing my work stuff, doing kid things, doing house things, etc.

Today was my last day at my job. And I, again, will admit that I came home just a little upset (LOL) because all I got out of six years of service to this firm was a card. Granted, I was out of the office training for my new job for a big chunk of the day, but still. So, again, not focusing on the other - good - stuff.

Tyler went the teen thing this evening, and was going home with the 'boyz' to spend the night. It doesn't end til quite late, so I was very surprised to get a phone call about an hour before this was supposed to be over.

"Hello?" (me - sleepily)

"Mom?"

"What Tyler." (just a little irritated that he was calling this late...)

"I'm getting baptized. Tonight. Now"

"What?!" (shock, surprise - pick an adjective)

"I'm. Getting. Baptized."

"But...but...you haven't studied it out yet. You can't do that. Why are you doing it?" (me -wondering if this will count if he hasn't done a one-on-one study-over-soda and completed a checklist or some sort of official document - it is late, after all)

"I want to do this. I know this is what I need to do. A bunch of us are getting baptized."

"Do you want me to come out to the building?" (still looking for an adjective, but leaning more toward the "thrilled" end of the spectrum)

"Do you want to? You don't have to."

"If you're getting baptized I wanna be there." (try and keep me away!!!)

"Well, then, come out soon."

THIS is the kind of phone call I want in the middle of the night.

I talked to Tyler before he went back to get ready. I asked him if he was sure about this. He said he was. I wanted him to tell me why. Bless his heart, he did. He told me that he wanted to go to heaven, that he loved Jesus and wanted to serve Him and wanted to teach other people about Him. We prayed, I cried - good times...

We talked on the way home about what this means. He has it down pretty well. Had a few things not quite there yet, but hey, don't we all?

As I was talking with him on the way home about what this decision means for him and the rest of his life, I relived my baptism, and found that I was telling the 'old, old story' to myself as well. I realized how out of whack I've been. I need to get back to my first love. I need to forget about the petty problems and imagined wrongs, and focus on the Lord. Especially now.

Lord, thank You for this evening. Thank You for working on my son's heart, in spite of the example I sometimes set for him. Watch over him and keep him true to his decision. Help him to remember this night for the rest of his life. Help me to be a better sister in Christ to him. In Your Son's Name, Amen

Welcome to my pity party

Yeah, so I'm feeling very unnecessary - looks like the new gal is going to far surpass anything I've EVER been able to do around here.

New boss decided to have a welcome party for her today. Yeah.

And I know I have the better end of the deal, but still...I feel like I'm not going to be missed, and all that I DID accomplish is nothing. I mean, yay her, but geezlouise - at least wait til I'm gone to make me look bad...!

*sigh*

I'll get over it...

Resistance is Futile

I am officially being assimilated into the Borg Collective - as we locals fondly refer to the 'neighborly' behemoth employer in town - the epicenter of conservatism and yuppie-ism. We like to joke about it, obviously. Still not sure where exactly in the myriad of buildings yet, but I hope to find out soon. And, as I was telling my recruiter - I hope this job sticks because they hired my replacement the day after I gave notice. *gulp* So. Started cleaning out my desk, little by little, yesterday. Not much more to do.

New guy kinda paid me a compliment when we talked about me leaving. He told me that he had observed that I am very intelligent (!), that I don't like to show my intelligence (?), and that I was obviously a spiritual person. Wow. Then he started quoting scripture at me (no, not to me) - just kind of a weird 'chat' all the way around, you know?

Why?

...and now I know the reason for our lunch/picnic - I probably won't have as long of a lunch hour at my NEW JOB!!!!!

YAY ME!!!!!

Thank You, God, for this opportunity! Please let me be a light in my new office.

In the moment

Today, my beloved husband picked me up for lunch. I was expecting to hit one of our favorite lunch spots, but he surprised me by handing me chips and a sandwich. He said we're going on a picnic at the church building, and then we're flying our new kites!

HOORAY!! What fun!

Out in the warm sunshine, with the cool breeze, and the crisp snap of the kites - wonderful! I knew I'd be blogging about it, and I tried to pull up some deep, meaningful, spiritual anecdote or something, but I decided - nah! Just enjoy the moment.

So we did. Thanks, honey!!

A fertile what?

We had a nice holiday weekend - hope you did as well.

Allen worked OT Saturday, and while we missed him, it was worth it. (Or will be...LOL!) Tyler, or "Baldy," worked with the teens Saturday morning doing the egg hunt at church. He said he really had a good time.

Ryan participated in the hunt and made a haul. He wasn't feeling well, and I was getting a bit concerned. He was diagnosed with asthma when he was younger, but hasn't had a problem for years now. But, Saturday, he was sounding pretty wheezy and kept complaining of being light headed. NOT good. I asked him if he felt like he did when he was having asthma problems, but he didn't remember how it felt. Sunday he said he was feeling much better.

We were discussing Ryan's health Sunday at dinner, when Tyler asked if we still had the "fertile negulator" for Ryan's asthma. For the love. The conversation kinda went downhill from there. LOL! This is the child who called cement mixers "mixuppersers" for the LONGEST time.

Dilemmas & Dramas

As you may or may not know, we've been, ummmm, concerned about Tyler's grades for quite a while now. Today I got the dreaded letter from the school - our beloved, intelligent, handsome, wonderful son is in real danger of failing this year. Or as the school so PC-ish-ly put it - non-promotion at the end of the school year. We have talked, we have encouraged, we have cajoled, we have bribed, we have scolded, we have yelled, we have grounded - all to no avail.

Tyler is a very sociable child. He loves getting together with friends, and weekends are made to have buddies spend the night playing video games. He really, REALLY enjoys the Friday night programs at church with the youth group.

Here's my dilemma:
A) Do we punish him at all? I just got off the phone with him. He read the letter aloud to me and understands the situation. I have also told him that I will not try to prevent his teachers from failing him if his grades are not good enough.
B) If we punish him - what should the punishment be? Losing privileges such as phone, TV, video games does not seem to have any effect. Grounding also seems to just irritate him as opposed to teaching a lesson.

The only thing I have seen that seems to work is preventing him from attending those beloved Friday evenings. Hence my dilemma. I really don't want to deprive him of activities related to the church/youth group. I know that these relationships will hopefully last him a lifetime. *sigh*

I haven't talked about this with Allen, so this may be a moot point...who knows?

Deep thoughts...

Saw this on a sampler - no, really - and it's been on my mind...

"Wisdom tells me I am nothing. Love tells me I am everything."

Happy Tuesday!

...and how's your week so far?

Is it a bad sign when your eyelid has been twitching for oh, about three weeks straight? Just wondering, you know - purely hypothetical...

I hate bunnies!

Actually, no, I don't hate bunnies, but that phrase became part of family legend last night. We christened the fire pit Allen got for Christmas yesterday evening. Allegedly, if this phrase is said when smoke from the fire is billowing over you, it will change directions. Poor Ryan kept having to say it - too funny!

It was a 'fire' kind of evening. Started off with Allen cooking out on the grill, and then the fire pit, and ending with Allen and I playing Burnout Revenge - sensing a theme? It was a very nice evening - and I so needed it after the past few days here at work. The only thing missing was a couple of fuzzy berries - LOL!

Woke up to rain this morning, which is nice. Soothing, calming, refreshing - I need to stop - I'm making myself sleepy!

Have a great day!

So, if this is limbo, could purgatory be far behind?

No, I'm not changing beliefs. Just kind of weird around here today. Nice boss has officially left, and new guy is theoretically in charge. However, no one has actually talked to us peons about it, so we don't know how to answer the phones, which financial accounts to open or close, etc. Ugh. Just call us mushrooms - keep us in the dark and feed us, well, you know. For the love. Plus it sounds like new guy is cut from the same cloth as mean boss. Great!

So - come on new place - gimme a call soon!

6 years

...still miss ya, Dave...

...this helped...

http://www.metacafe.com/watch/81866/funny_cats_2/

Ugh

...major case of the grumps today! GRRRRR!

Fluff...'cuz I can...

*NOTE* - for some reason - my page is loading VERY slowly today - my apologies!

What time did you get up this morning? Um...around 6:45

Diamonds or pearls? Yes, and if you have to ask, you probably don't know me well...

What was the last film you saw at the cinema? Wow. Been so long, I'm not even sure.

What is your favorite TV show? SVU, American Idol (yeah, I know)

What did you have for breakfast? Some trail mix

What is your middle name? Marie

What is your favorite cuisine? Italian, although I can do some damage to Southern cuisine and some Chinese foods

What foods do you dislike? Organ meats *shiver*

What is your favorite chip? Well, since I don't think chocolate counts for this one, I'll have to say Fritos or Pringles

What is your favorite CD at the moment? Zoe In Christ Alone

What kind of car do you drive? Honda 626

What is your favorite sandwich? Rare roast beef on sourdough with lettuce, tomato, mayo and cheese - oh, and I'll take a non-caffeinated soda - easy ice - thanks! Need gas money?

What characteristics do you despise? Dishonesty and arrogance

Favorite clothing? Flannel jammies

If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go? UK or Belgium (come on - a country whose main exports are chocolate and diamonds?! Yeah, baby!)

What color is your bathroom? To be determined...stay tuned

Favorite brand of clothing? Clothing comes in brands?

Where would you want to retire? Barbie's dreamhouse - have you SEEN that thing? Okay, seriously probably the northeast or northwest - not really a beach kinda gal

Favorite time of day? Early morning before the dog is doing his puppy-potty dance and everyone is still sleeping, especially if it's the weekend and we have nothing planned.

Where were you born? Pekin, IL

Favorite sport to watch? Football!

What type of detergent do you use? Whatever's on sale.

Coke or Pepsi? Coke

Morning person or night owl? As much as I like mornings, it's easier to stay up late than to get up early

Shoe size? 8

Pets? Yes, one very spoiled Brittany - Wrigley AKA Fuzzbutt

Any new and exciting news to share? Jenn? Can I?

What did you want to be when you were little? Well, I told my mother that I wanted to be a nurse, but she gave me the 1970's feminist party line about being more than that - that I could be a doctor if I wanted to - but all I wanted was the cool nurse hat.

Favorite candy bar? Heath or frozen Snickers

What is one of your best childhood memories? ...childhood memory...childhood memory...hmmm...nope - drawing a blank

What are all the different jobs you've had? Um...games manager in a carnival, retail clerk, desk attendant in college, deputy circuit clerk, administrative assistant/gofer

Piercing? Ears

Eye color? Green

Ever been to Africa? No

Ever been toilet papered? My house? No. Myself? Yes. At my wedding shower.

Love someone so much it made you cry? Yes

Been in a car accident? Yes

Croutons or bacon bits? Neither

Favorite day of the week? Saturday or Sunday

Favorite restaurant? We don't go out very often, so I don't know that I have a favorite right now.

Favorite flower? Lily of the valley, ranunculas, tea roses

Favorite ice cream? Yes. *j/k* I like those yummy decadent flavors, but in a pinch, I can be appeased with mint chocolate chip

Disney or Warner Brothers? Disney

Favorite fast food restaurant? Probably McDonald's or Burger King (onion rings...yummm!)

Carpet color? Ugh - do we have to go there? Okay. Blue. Yes, I know. Fortunately, Wrigley sheds an awful lot, so if it doesn't get vaccuumed for a couple of days, it's kind of a grayish.

How many times did you fail your drivers test? Once. But I drove anyway. (Shhhh!)

From whom did you get your last email? The Bay of Evil

What store would you choose to max out a credit card? Probably Hobby Lobby.

What do you do most often when you're bored? Watch TV, read, stitch

Ford or Chevy? Not really crazy about Chevy Chase, so I'll have to say Harrison Ford.

What are you listening to right now? Me typing and one of my collectors on a phone call.

Which came first, the chicken or the egg? Okay, well, I have an answer to that one, but not one I'm actually willing to tarnish my good girl rep with on my blog.

Time you finished this? Not a moment too soon.

Skills Test = OVER

Yep - all done. And she told me I did great on it. *whew* It wasn't as hard as I thought it would be, although there were precious moments of sheer panic and terror thrown in for good measure...Then she decided to beef up my resume AGAIN. I was uncomfortable with some of the things she added - you know, little things, like that I know how to use certain programs and software that I've never even seen before. Yeah. Great. Now it's just a waiting game. And learning that software I'm already supposed to know.

Watched Hotel Rwanda last night. (Yeah, I know I'm a bit later than EVERYONE in the world!) Allen was curious to know what I thought of it. It was a very hard movie to watch. I consciously tried to disengage to some degree, but I couldn't. I told Allen that it was hard to figure out who the good guys were, besides Paul, of course. I found that to be very disturbing. I was really needing some clear cut boundaries and there were none. It was challenging.

Happy Wednesday!

Monday

This is getting ridiculous! Still not feeling great, still not wanting to be at work, still not able to be a full speed at anything. Stupid flu...

So. Skills test tomorrow afternoon - provided things go well until then (see previous rant) and happy thoughts are welcomed and appreciated. Now, if I could just learn the program I need by osmosis...

Gotta run!

...even more from my vast store of knowledge...

FLU + VERY TEMPTING (and yummy!) BEEF STROGANOFF = STILL BAD (ugh!) I simply couldn't resist - especially after not having eaten anything since Sunday.

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So why do you think the demons come out and bother us at night? I was so tired last night, from a combination of things, but I simply could not sleep. My mind kept racing and I was sorely tempted to try to solve all of the world's problems. Bad, bad idea. Everytime I tried to relax and remind myself how much I needed to sleep because of my health, the demons responded by uncovering another layers of problems to solve. I tried some of my old faithful 'drowsy-makers' to get my brain to focus on something else, but the one I rely on most often just reminded me of yet another task in my every-increasing load. I have found that prayer often wakes me up more, so that wasn't an viable option. I finally resorted to alphabetical hymn-naming - hey, when all else fails...
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Reading a novel called "Club Sandwich" by Lisa Samson - highly recommend it - btw! The main character is in the so-called sandwich generation - taking care of ailing parents, but still has young children at home. Just wanted to share this snippet with you:

I fix my cup of tea and settle in at the computer. I should work on a new column; Tony hated the antifeminist one, and I failed to convince him of its merits. But boy, did that feel good to write! I think I'll write about the insignificance of an organized pantry in the grand scheme of living. I'm going to write about the messy things of life, like love and family and watching your children become their own persons who will make many mistakes. One error they shouldn't make, however, is thinking they're better people if their pantries are organized or they can actually make it through a year of Bible Study Fellowship or a Beth Moore book

I've never made it through either one of those, and the Lord knows I've tried. I want desperately to be one of those people God ushers gently aside for a time of rejuvenation and growth. But so far I'm still careening to the right on the Snow Emergency Route of faith. I don't just lean on the everlasting arms, I weigh them down. I wonder why God isn't sick of me yet, and for every situation I handle with grace, two bovine scenarios precede it. For every word seasoned with salt, four are covered in crushed aspirin.

...any one else...?

...in case you were wondering...

FLU=BAD

...and now you know...

Bein' neighborly

Went to a women's ministry group meeting today, and we were trying to hash out what the plans for the rest of the year were. One of the things we talked about was the idea of "buddies" and how we all are longing for those kind of relationships - you know - the kind where you can drop in anytime, no occasion necessary, and just hang out, or run errands together - whatever. The more we discussed it, the more we felt led to try to encourage others to establish or at least try to establish that kind of relationship with a small group of friends. We decided that as the leadership of the WMG that we should form the first group and really get to know each other.

I hate to think how novel this sounded. I sat there thinking that we all just needed front porches again. We needed to be "neighborly," you know? Drop in anytime, encourage each other, phone calls, etc. Just be - instead of setting up "play dates" or "special evenings." Remember when we were kids and we just went to our friends houses? I loved that. No formality, no special invitation - you just showed up. Now, we have to coordinate schedules and rides and times.

I miss front porches.

After we dealt with that and other issues, one of the sisters shared some things from her heart. And I was amazed, because they were things that Allen and I had been feeling too. My heart hurt for her, because I could sense the pain behind the words, and behind the wall she admitted she had built. I think a couple of the others at the meeting were surprised at what she said, and what I shared about how Allen and I felt. But isn't that what a family is for? Bringing things out into the open, possibly opening someone else's eyes? I wish I could have stayed for more of this conversation. I felt like we were really getting to that sister's heart, and growing closer as a group. But time marches on, and I had been out too long.

Happy St Patty's Day

The interview part is over. And I hope I did alright. This afternoon is showing me again why I need to leave. Ugh. ...stupid accounting issues...

The interviewer was great. She was very friendly before and after the "official" interview, and all business during. Very reassuring. She told me that she would wait to administer the skills test to me until I had had a chance to brush up on some software - how cool is that?! So. Thanks to some very good friends, who have the patience of saints - BTW, I will be crash-coursing some software this week. However, I still need some assistance with Access - any takers?

Tonight, DS1 is having a friend spend the night - why does he always do this when dad's at work?! I think they have some sort of deal cooked up. Sneaky little buggers!

DS2 woke up this morning with a nasty nosebleed - something with which I am unfamiliar, never having had one before. So I cleaned up the bathroom, and will get laundry started after work.

...life is good...

Boyz II Men

We watched "16 Children & Moving In" last night. It's about the Duggar family in Arkansas with, well, 16 kids, ranging in age from 17 to newborn, and they were moving into the home that the family had taken three years to build virtually by themselves. Allen and I were commenting on the positive aspects of their family: their love and cooperation, their organization, their faith, etc. It really is a neat story.

Anyway, after DS2 and Allen were off doing their own things, DS1 asked me if I had noticed a change in his attitude from when he was "younger." I told him that I had, and that I could see him growing and maturing alot lately. He was pleased, until I told him what we were expecting in his teen years. (And hopefully I'm wrong...) I told him that as he grew, and especially in the not to distant future, he would be challenging the rules and boundaries which we have set for him. This is part of growing up, and while we're not looking forward to it, we know it will happen. I also told him that there will come a time when mom and dad will not be 'cool' to him anymore, but to remember that we have been where he is and that we will always love him no matter what. I told him that he would be tempted to do things against what we've tried to teach him, but that I hoped that he would remember something of what he has learned. We kind of left it by saying how much we loved each other.

After the boys went to bed, Allen and I were discussing Tyler's fast-approaching teen years, and I recounted our earlier conversation. I told him that years ago, I had read something about how most of our culture has somehow lost that 'rite of passage' that declares to the child and the world that they are now seen as an 'adult.' I told Allen that I'd really like to come up with some sort of ceremony or something to commemorate our boys entrance into their teen years; something that would mark the occasion in a meaningful way. He agreed and we're trying to come up with some ideas. Any suggestions?

Monday

Weekend review....ready, GO!

Saturday: um, nothing...nothing exciting...nothing eventful...just nothing...

Sunday: well, kinda the same. S'posed to sing yesterday - wasn't feeling the best, but there ya go (see Saturday) Heading into the auditorium after practice when who do I see - but SKIP and his family! Color me surprised! SO good to see them. Church was good. Later that afternoon, Allen and I slipped out for some time alone - went to Lowe's and another store looking for a new grill. Allen cooked dinner (yes, I know I'm blessed!) and we watched the radar most of the evening. Oh yeah, we also watched the last part of the NASCAR race. (I know!)

Monday: Allen called me a few minutes ago and said that the new job people were calling me for an interview. So, any happy thoughts would be gratefully welcomed Thursday afternoon...

...but until then, I need to keep the bosses here happy, so back to work...

Wednesday

Happy Wednesday. Not much going on around here right now. I think I'm on the back side of the Big Event, you know? Kind of like after all the fuss and excitement of the wedding and reception - then what? I was joking after the class at the retreat that I was spent, but I think now that I wasn't joking so much. I feel drained, like I gave everything I had. But in a good way. I'll be fine - just need to get through the next couple of days to be my perky, bubbly self again...

Met Beaner's puppy last night - what a sweetheart!

*whew*

...and I'm back. Wow. Thanks to all of your prayers and well-wishes, I was calm and was able to present the lesson with confidence. I will admit that I was happy when it was over, but...

I received only good comments (although, honestly, who is going to come up to you and say something bad right then and there?) I hope I was able to communicate what God wanted these dear sisters to hear.

I think overall it was a very powerful weekend and I believe God met us there. Lots of tears, lots of smiles, lots of laughter, lots of chocolate - everything I hoped and expected!

Thanks to all of your for your support and prayers and support! You're all the best!

R minus 24 and counting...

Yep - about 24 hours until I leave for the retreat...holding my breath and praying nothing bad happens to anyone I know and love until then...

Tonight, I'm going to pack and clean and do my nails (priorities, ya know) if, of course, my back allows. For the last couple of days, my back has felt like a bowl of chocolate ganache with a few drops too much of water in it - seized up like I don't know what! (Just getting as much chocolate reference in as possible in preparation for this weekend!) Let's just say we tend to focus on the "treat" part of "retreat."

Allen's planning on relaxing and spending time with his boys and friends this weekend. They probably won't even miss me...but that's okay - Wrigley will...lol! Satan was after me really hard the other day, and I was even telling myself that I needed to stay home this weekend in a blanket fort and hide instead of going to the retreat. Allen was so encouraging and wonderful. He helped me realize that I was playing into Satan's hands and that I needed to stop. So I did. Had a little weep and then I was fine.

I'm getting excited about all the things that are planned for this weekend. I know y'all are probably excited that it will be over soon and I won't be talking about it anymore! Just know that I appreciate all your encouragement and prayers over the last couple of months.

Wish I could take Blogville with me! See y'all on Monday!

Blog-a-prayer

Father God,

Thank you for the life you've given me. You have poured out so many blessings that I so don't feel that I deserve, yet You do. You overwhelm me with Your love!

Father, I want to pray for some of my friends here in Blogville - this lovely, homey community we've come to be on the web.

For my sweet Allen. Lord, I pray that You would help him with his feelings and attitude about church. He so wants to find his place in Your family! I pray that You would help him see how much he means to me and the boys. We love him so. I know he's concerned about his work situation, and I pray for a quick resolution. He wants to be a shining light, but sometimes I know how defeated he feels. Lord, he wants to be a man after Your heart. Give him the confidence and boldness to act on the thoughts that are from you.

For my Tyler and Ryan. Thank You for these wonderful boys, Lord. There are more days than I care to remember that I've felt woefully inadequate to care for Your children, and yet You seem to have more confidence in my abilities than I do. Watch over them, keep them safe and pure. Keep them searching for You.

For Jeanna. Father, she and Dwight have come through such a difficult year. I know that You are continuing to work in their lives. I pray that you will strengthen them, and help them to see each other as You see them. I pray for health for Nick and Jess, Lord. I know how much of a toll a sick child can be and I pray that her kids will be well.

For Diana. What a joy! Three miracles! Father, we rejoice with Donna and Diana! Your blessings are so much more than we can imagine! Jesus, I just pray for continued health for Diana and the little ones. Thank You for bringing them this far.

For Donna. Lord, what a blessing! She has come to mean so much to Allen and me. Thank You for her friendship and her wisdom and encouragement. I pray that You will continue to bless her and her beautiful family.

Lord, thank You for the wonderful news from Heidi! Hallelujah! I know she's relieved. I pray that the good news will continue for her. I also want to pray for her mom and family, and that Heidi and Paul will be lights to them, and will be peacemakers. I pray that Blake will feel more at home at church, and will want to be involved in the youth ministry. He has a lot to offer. I pray for Paul as he travels. Please keep him safe and keep Heidi and the kids secure.

For Terri. What a delight! She always makes me smile - how much more does she make You smile! I pray that you will grant her patience, Lord, and help her in the areas that she feels are lacking. I am so blessed to be able to call her friend. Thank You for the gift of her.

For Amy. Lord, give her guidance in the decisions she's facing. Grant her peace and assurance that her decisions are from You.

Jeff - Father, You definitely did good with him! He's such an encouragement, and You've blessed him with an enormous talent! I pray that You will help him be all You want him to be. Use him where You've placed him. Help him be organized and efficient, God.

Lord, be with Mark and his family. Draw him close to You. Let him feel Your nearness. Guide him and bless him. Strengthen him as he tries to do Your will.

For FB - Lord, her family is struggling right now. I pray that You'll guide her and help her to counsel her family members who are hurting. Her faith and desire for You are so encouraging.

Father, You've made us into a family here. I am in awe of the way You work! You are incredible and I thank You for all of the people mentioned here, and everyone You've placed in my life.
Right now, I pray that You'll bind Satan, Lord. That You'll keep him and his minions away from us. Hedge us in with Your love and protection. Hide us under Your wings. Fill us with Your Spirit, and Your love.

In Jesus' precious name,

Amen

Prayer requests

As you may have heard, tomorrow is Blogville Prayer-palooza. If you have prayer requests that we in blogville can pray for you, you can post it in my comments, or Allen's, or Donna's...

Here are mine...

- that I will be used at the retreat this weekend
- that I can be bold
- that I will recognize where God wants me
- that I will be a better wife, mom, and friend
- that I will be more thankful
- that my family will be safe
- finances
- deeper prayer life and more joy about studying the word

Monday

Well, Allen and the guys did a WONDERFUL job Saturday. I'm sure the other ladies in attendance felt as special as I did! Way to go, honey!

The Women's Ministry Group got together for our last meeting yesterday before the retreat. We went over KP duties, room and ride assignments, and finalized the shopping list. Well, we had a rookie in our midst - new to the WMG and the retreat - who was shocked at how much food we were talking about - and that's just the meal/snack food - it didn't include the chocolate! Come on - it's a ladies retreat - hot tubs and chocolate - WOOHOO! But it was amusing to see her reaction! Just wait till you get there, Bridget!

So, looks like things are coming together. Unfortunately, Satan has stepped up his attack. He's trying to lull me by whispering to me that he's not the one doing this stuff - it's just a big old coincidence - but I'm not buying it! Now, the attack is coming in a very weak and touchy area for Allen and me. I'm trying to stand strong, and encouraging him to do the same.

...can't wait for Wednesday...

Friday

I'm off work today!! Huzzah! A day of - well, cleaning and laundry and helping my husband get ready for tomorrow's banquet - but I'm off work!

So - everyone in for March 1st? I'm looking forward to joining with you all in prayer...

Wednesday

Last night I was able to relax somewhat. I hung out with my kids, I watched AI and the Olympics, I cross stitched, I read my Bible - pretty good night overall.

But something has been bothering me. I talked to Beaner yesterday afternoon because I hadn't seen her in Blogville and she hadn't answered my email. Everything is okay, but there's something whacko with their computer. She told me about another friend who is ill and has sick kids. And then there's HW, who has some struggles of her own. And on it goes... It struck me that it seems that Satan is trying to go after nearly everyone in our little circle of friends. I'm not trying to be egotistical - "oh, it's all about Chris and HER life and all the good things SHE's trying to do" - but I've become very aware of how far the enemy's claws are reaching. But like HW said, I'm not going to let myself sap the joy out of my day by focusing on what he's doing. Instead I will rejoice that I've been found worthy and enough of a threat.

Lord, thank You for everything You are doing in my life. Father, I pray for my friends and family member who are feeling Satan's evil touches. I pray Jesus' blood covering over all of us, and that Your angels would camp around us. Give us peace and joy. Amen.

Miss me?

(I'll just pretend you answered in the enthusiastic affirmative and move on...lol!)

Well, I think Allen and I came to a consensus last evening. We are under attack. The enemy has us in his sights and is trying his best to drive a big ol' wedge into our family. Between the health/physical issues, the whole job thing, the retreat, the kiddos {"loving"} each other - oh yeah - he's after us!

So, last night, we claimed our family. We prayed a covering over us, a hedge around us. We realize Satan is still out there, waiting, but I think that since we have recognized this as an all-out assault that we will make it through.

As a matter of fact, I've been feeling a sense of joy because what I'm doing has evidently gotten Satan's attention, so I must be doing something right! I'm feeling more confident about the retreat and more determined than ever to share what God's placed on my heart.

..of course, more prayer warriors joining the fray is ALWAYS welcome...:)

Sorry I said anything

Wednesday

Well, like I said yesterday and this morning - I'm not comfortable with the idea of this job at all. I'm in need of that divine 2x4 to hit me in the head and spin me around to the right path. I'm wondering if this wasn't a ploy by Satan to keep me from focusing on the retreat or something. I wouldn't put it past him. I do definitely want to leave my current position, but this particular job doesn't feel right. I don't know. Prayers would be appreciated...

...and I'll do my, um, best? like, not to do this, you know? at the retreat? okay? LOL!

PS - What the heck has happened to my profile and Spike that they're waaaaaay down at the bottom?!

EEP!!

Okay, yeah, uh, so, I, um, like, got this call today? about, um, interviewing for, like, a new job? and uh, yeah, and I'm like, totally freakin' out, um, 'cuz I don't, like, know, like, a good deal of like, the stuff she, uh, wants me to know?, 'cuz I'm behind, like, the times and all? you know, and um, so, like I have to like, crash course this stuff? like, before I call her back to like, set up, like, an interview? and like, all this is, um, happening? like, when I'm tryin' to focus, like, on the retreat?

...ack...

Tuesday

These are fun...I've been seeing them on quite a few blogs recently...

A Lesson Learned

Friday evening, I shared what I'm going to teach at the ladies retreat with my husband. I'm sharing from the Eldridge's book Captivating. I asked for his honest input and opinion, and my husband is nothing if not honest. He told me he felt that the flow was good, and the information was great, but there was no heart behind what I was saying. There was no conviction. Ouch! Unfortunately, he was absolutely right. I fell in love with this book, and it has continued to be on my heart since I got it last year. The first time I read it, I was astounded - it was like the authors were inside my head! But. There's head knowledge and there's heart knowledge. Allen asked if I don't believe it, how can I teach it? And he's right.

So, I shared that with a friend at church yesterday. I asked for her prayers that I would believe and be convinced and passionate about what I felt God was leading me to teach - that I would truly hear God and the words He wanted me to say, and she assured me that she would. (And I know that others have said they are praying for me as well, which I greatly appreciate - and NEED!) During the sermon yesterday, I will admit I was irritated and distracted and I kind of tuned out. My friend stopped me after church with a note that said "Did you hear it? You got your "word." Deut 30:14 'But the word is very near you, Chris, in your mouth and in your heart, Chris...' You asked - HE answered quickly!!" I teared up when she read it to me, and I've kept the note close as a reminder ever since. I needed to hear that, but even more, I need to kick Satan out - my irritation gave him a foothold, and I missed what God was trying to tell me. I'm so grateful for my friend's attention!

I hope you have a friend like that!

Thoisday

So we were total slugs last night - sat around and watched American Idol (yeah, I know) and the Grammys (yeah, I know again) - nothing like a good old fashioned evening of mindless entertainment! No stitching, no working on retreat stuff (although in my defense, I'm nearly done...), no dishes, no laundry - NOTHING! However, of course, we'll be making up for it tonight...

Speaking of the Grammys - did anyone else watch? Did anyone see the tribute to Sly and the Family Stone? Um...was that supposed to go like that? And well, about the hair...oh, never mind...

Been thoroughly enjoying the TobyMac CD this week. One song in particular has really struck a chord with me (no pun intended). The lyrics:

I've got to go, I'm 'bout to do a show

Can't take this stress, wanna give You my best, Lord

I can't sing with this hangin' over me

But the show must go on, Lord, set me free

Yeah, that's kinda how I've been feeling - constantly running or doing or whatever. But I still sometimes feel like I'm faking it. Not really feeling like I can perform again, but the show must go on.

Lord, set me free.

Tuesday

Sorry I've been kinda quiet. I've been lurking more than commenting or writing. There was some bad news in the world of stitching blogs this week. A young woman (late 20's) died suddenly this past Friday. No one has said what has happened. I can't imagine what her husband and family are going through. I know her family would appreciate any prayers you could send their way. Thanks.

Monday

Well, I got DS1 to admit that I'm cool. Right before bed Friday night, he told me that it was pretty cool that I picked him up from school with TobyMac blaring (well, as much as my little car can blare anything - LOL)

Allen started replacing the tub surround this weekend - he's so handy! Hopefully only a few more days until we can use the "good" bathroom again! Yay, honey!

There are four people that are in my office most of the time, and in pretty close proximity to one another. Today, the three ladies (me, friend boss, and the new gal) were talking about churches and spiritual matters before the other guy came in. It was very encouraging! Not even so much what was discussed, but the fact that the conversation even occurred. I don't think it would have happened even a few months ago. Hooray!

...ummm...

Okay - maybe I'm NOT so high on the cool moms scale. Next time I'm striving for coolishiosityness, thumpin' a rockin' and happenin' band (when yer cool, you tend to leave the final 'g' off of words, BTW), perhaps I should plan my attire a bit better. It's hard to be a rockin' (see?) mom while wearing a glittery sweatshirt with penguins and snowflakes on it...note to self...

It's Official

Yep - got the final notification last night - I AM OLD. And where did this joyous news reach me, you ask? In the middle of a TobyMac set at WinterJam 2006. Yup. I was there. Feeling very fuddy-duddy-ish. Thinking that I would probably enjoy the music more if I could understand the words. *sigh* But, on the up side, the kids had a ball! I think the highlight for them both was the Sphere of Fear motorcycle demo and the Newboys spinning drum platform. I did happen to see some folks who at least LOOKED older than I am, but that was small consolation - I just didn't feel like jumping and moshing last night - headache and all, you understand. Otherwise...(or not)

It really was an awesome show, though, and if the jam is anywhere near you, I HIGHLY recommend you find the time to attend! Seven acts for $10 - can't beat it!

Bailed

Thanks for the well wishes - my back is feeling a bit better today.

I had every intention of working on retreat stuff last night, but instead we faced the damage, and had our taxes done. So tonight, after PT practice, it's back at it! I guess my biggest problem is going to be condensing the book into a single class and a short blurb before small group/individual studies. There's A LOT in this book that I really am feeling led to cover, while at the same time, I'm going through the process for myself again. I still have time, but I'm fighting the imp named Overwhelmed and his companion Time Crunch.

I think a big part of my problem last night was wanting to work on the small group sheets before I was finished with the class - cart before horse time. Maybe that's why I was almost eager to get the taxes done! LOL!

I really appreciate all the encouragement I've received from sisters about doing this class, and the prayer covering, not to mention the practical support. Thanks, gals!

Monday, Monday

I took nearly the entire weekend off from crafting, from working on the class, from thinking! It was great! But it's Monday again, and I need to get started on everything again. Saturday, Allen worked, and DS1 was working hard painting in the youth room at church. DS2 and I just hung out. DS2 got free tickets to our local university's basketball game Saturday, so after we picked up DS1, we headed to the game. I am not proud to admit that although I have a degree from the school, I had never attended a basketball game. (Or knew all the words to the school song, but that's another story!) We had a good time, even though we were in the nosebleed section next to the opposing team's fans. (Encouraged the kiddos not to gripe because the tickets were free after all!) It rained all day Saturday, too, which was nice. Just kinda sprinkled off and on. Until the game was over. And we were parked a couple of blocks away. So, we just counted our blessings and had a good time walking to the car. Went home to showers and hot chocolate to warm up! Hopefully, we'll be able to go to another game and Allen will be able to attend with us!

Sunday was pretty uneventful. My back started hurting at church, so all I wanted to do was lay down with a heating pad! Allen had a bad headache, so it wasn't such a great afternoon. Can't win 'em all, huh?

Just be glad you're not THIS guy... (Thanks CNN & AP)

CAMBRIDGE, England (AP) -- A museum visitor shattered three Qing dynasty Chinese vases when he tripped on his shoelace, stumbled down a stairway and brought the vases crashing to the floor, officials said Monday.

The three vases, dating from the late 17th or early 18th century, had been donated to The Fitzwilliam Museum in the university city of Cambridge in 1948, and were among its best-known artifacts. They had been sitting proudly on the window sill beside the staircase for 40 years.

"It was a most unfortunate and regrettable accident, but we are glad that the visitor involved was able to leave the museum unharmed," said Duncan Robinson, the Fitzwilliam's director.
The museum declined to identify the man who had tripped on a loose shoelace Wednesday.
Asked about the porcelain vases, Margaret Greeves, the museum's assistant director, said: "They are in very, very small pieces, but we are determined to put them back together."

The museum declined to say what the vases were worth.

Shameless plagiarism - again

Okay - this could be fun! If you read this, if your eyes are passing over this right now, even if we don't speak often (or ever, for that matter), please post a comment with a COMPLETELY MADE UP AND FICTIONAL MEMORY OF YOU AND ME. It can be anything you want--good or bad--BUT IT HAS TO BE FAKE.

Ahhh...Wednesday

Well, I've gotten the official okie-dokie from my aunt on the colors I chose for the pin guards, so I'm back to stitching. She and my grandfather came over last night for a quick visit.

I'm still plugging away at the women's retreat lesson. I haven't had as much time to work on it over the last couple of days, but I'm planning on working on it pretty hard the rest of this week. I'm really getting excited about it!

Busy at work, busy at home, nothing new or exciting, nothing deep and meaningful. (Oddly enought - happy that the things I dream at night WON'T come true - trust me!) Just, well, here, thank God.

Lord, please shine through me today.

_____________________________________________


Okay - confession time - I'm NOT happy today; I'm NOT feeling well; I'm NOT sleeping well; I'm NOT in a good mood as much as I may try to play it off; I'm NOT wanting to be here - or anywhere for that matter. There. *sigh* Things are starting to weigh on me, and today is not a good coping day. Sorry. Hopefully, my funk will dissipate and I'll be better tomorrow...

Happy Monday

...in spite of the fact that researchers have determined that this is supposed to be one of the worst days for people...and how exactly would one go about coming to THAT conclusion?

My cold seems to be loosening it's infernal hold on me - hooray! Enough so that I was even able to sing with the PT yesterday. But, I have to admit, I went home after our women's ministry group meeting and put on my flannel jammies - I WAS DONE. Completely worn out. But I have had no pity-Coke today - only water, thankyouverymuch! Just working my widdle finger to da bone.

Our aforementioned meeting went well, I thought. We had lots of input and some really good ideas for the next couple of months, and beyond. We even started planning for the women's retreat in March. Hopefully, it will be good...

...put on a happy face...

Sorry I'm late posting today - I wasn't going to blog today at all - heavy medication and typing can be a bad combo, after all - but I had something really nice happen and wanted to share...

Allen just had roses delivered to me at work and they're GORGEOUS!!! Not sure what the occasion is, 'ceptin' that he loves me - what better reason?! Sure cheered me up!

Happy weekend!

Thursday

...more of the same...weather forecast - today in the 50's, tomorrow up to 4" of snow...still congested...still drugged, although more heavily today...more Coke this morning...blech

Blech

That pretty much sums up how I'm feeling today. Here's a rundown...just for fun! Head - congested and achy. Nose - alternately running or stuffed. Various muscles - sore. Brain - NOT working. Overall condition - blech. (See? It's unanimous!) This all hit me in the space of about fifteen minutes last night. I was sitting on the couch, beading the first pg and watching American Idol (heheh) when all of a sudden I felt like I could just curl up in a ball and sleep for a week. But life goes on, so...here I am at work...ever the martyr, right? LOL!

I've indulged in a guilty pleasure this morning because I don't feel great - Coke. Yes. In the morning. First thing. Nothing like it! People ask me why I drink soda instead of coffee, and my response is that I prefer my caffeine carbonated. I've done really well in weaning myself off of soda (especially caffeinated ones) for a long time now, but I just wanted one today, and I was too weak to say no to myself. (I think I need a nap already!)

Have a good day, Blogville!

Greatest Hits

Over the last couple of years, I have been collecting greatest hits and compilation CDs. You know, Greatest Hits of the '70s, 1 by the Beatles, etc. I was recently listening to my new U2 CD (1980-2000) and I started wondering what I was missing by only getting the "greatest hits." I mean, yeah, I'm hearing the big hits - the chart toppers, the ones everyone likes or liked - but what gems are hidden deep in the original projects? What 'B' sides am I missing that may eventually have become one of my all-time favorites? Am I cheating myself? Am I cheating the artist?

Then God used his divine 2x4: what are you missing about Me by only doing the popular things? Reading the verses everyone already knows - the ones everyone likes - the ones that are easy to 'get' or get hold of - the ones that bring that sense of nostalgia and charm because of their familiarity. What gems of truth am I missing in one of smaller or less 'popular' books or chapters? What would happen if I went against the stream and danced to a different tune than the popular ones that everyone is listening to?

Am I cheating myself? Am I cheating the Artist?

Excuse me - you're stepping on my toe...

An honest man was being tailgated by a stressed out woman on a busy boulevard. Suddenly, the light turned yellow, just in front of him. He did the right thing, stopping at the crosswalk, even though he could have beaten the red light by accelerating through the intersection. The tailgating woman hit the roof - and the horn - screaming in frustration as she missed her chance to get through the intersection. As she was still in mid-rant, she heard a tap on her window and looked up into the face of a very serious police officer. The officer ordered her to exit her car with her hands up. He took her to the police station where she was searched,finger printed, photographed, and placed in a holding cell. After a couple of hours, a policeman approached the cell and opened the door. She was escorted back to the booking desk where the arresting officer was waiting with her personal effects. He said, "I'm very sorry for this mistake. You see, I pulled up behind you rcar while you were blowing your horn, flipping off the guy in front of you, and cussing a blue streak at him. I noticed the 'Choose Life' licenseplate holder, the 'What Would Jesus Do' bumper sticker, the 'Follow Me to Sunday-School' bumper sticker, and the chrome-plated Christian fish emblem on the trunk. Naturally, I assumed you had stolen the car."

(...shamlessly stolen - um - BORROWED from another blog...Happy Plagiarism for Fun & Profit Week!)

New friend

Meet Spike -->
(I didn't name him Wrigley 'cuz I couldn't do red and white spots!) Feel free to give him a treat - he LOVES them! Hold it over his head, and he'll jump for it.

Just want to be a full service blog and offer some entertainment for when y'all get tired of my whining, ranting, complaining, etc (or at least when I lapse into too many blogs about cross-stitch, Christmas or the kiddos...LOL!)

"Sisterchicks"

You are my hiding place;
you will protect me from trouble
and surround me with songs of deliverance.

Psalm32:7

I've recently enjoyed a couple of the Sisterchicks novels. (Great light reading - definitely recommend them!) The premise of the series is that different sets of friends go off on adventures together and deepen their friendship and have a blast! A sisterchick is "a friend who shared the deepest wonders of your heart, loves you like a sister, and provides a reality check when you're being a brat." My favorite so far is Sisterchicks Do the Hula in which two college friends reconnect after a number of years and go on that long-planned Hawai'ian vacation. The scripture quoted above is featured heavily in the book. However, Robin Jones Gunn, the author, uses Peterson's The Message as her source of scripture.

God's my island hideaway,
keeps danger far from the shore,
throws garlands of hosannas around my neck.

Psalm 32:7 The Message

This particular verse has really spoken to me since I started the book. I just love the imagery. To think of God as a hideaway is exciting to me. (Although I must admit that often I don't long to run away to God as much as I would to an actual island.) I especially love this part: "throws garlands of hosannas around my neck." He's greeting me, showering me with love, is excited to see me, to praise me, to enjoy me, to make how He feels about me obvious to everyone. Wow. Makes me wonder how often I want to do that for Him.

This made me giggle today

I saw this on another site and thought that it was just too funny not to share.....
Tell me why...
Why do we press harder on a remote control when we know that the batteries are getting
weak?
Why do banks charge a fee on 'insufficient funds' when they know there is not enough?
Why does someone believe you when you say there are four billion stars but check when you say the paint is wet?
Why doesn't glue stick to the bottle?
Why do they use sterilized needles for death by lethal injection?
Why doesn't Tarzan have a beard?
Why does Superman stop bullets with his chest but duck when you throw a revolver at him?Why do Kamikaze pilots wear helmets?
Whose idea was it to put an 's' in the word 'lisp'?
If people evolved from apes, why are there still apes?
Why is it that no matter what color bubble bath you use, the bubbles are always white?
Is there ever a day that mattresses are not on sale?
Why do people constantly return to the refrigerator with hopes that something new to eat will have materialized?
Why do people keep running over a string a dozen times with their vacuum cleaner, then reach down, pick it up, examine it, then put it down to give the vacuum cleaner one more chance?
Why is it that no plastic bag will open from the end you first try?
How do those dead bugs get into those enclosed light fixtures?
Why is it that whenever you attempt to catch something that's falling off the table you always manage to knock something else over?
In winter, why do we try to keep the house as warm as it was in summer when we complained about the heat?
Why do you never hear father-in-law jokes?

Tell me this week will get better...

Nothing like waking five minutes before you're supposed to be at work, eh? Grrrr...

Friday evening we watched the penguins march. Meh. It was okay. I much prefer the Blue Planet series that came out a few years ago. They're reshowing it right now on the National Geographic channel, or something like that. The best part about it was sharing time with the fam.

So. This weekend was pretty good. Saturday, Allen worked, so I straightened up the house, did laundry, all the fun stuff, and then spent the rest of the time stitching PG#1. Went pretty well. But ask me again when I'm on PG #18...

The boys spent Saturday night at a friend's house, so it was just me in complete control of the remote...ahhhh...

Sunday we went to church, and then watched football. And evidently went to bed way too late (see the opening sentence.)

So...ever in a tearing hurry again - gotta get something done today at work...

My turn for a Grrrr

But first the good stuff...last night, Allen gave me a wonderful gift - a night off! I didn't have to cook (not that I usually do, but...), I didn't have to do laundry, I didn't have to do dishes - nothing! So relaxing...he's so good to me! I am blessed and thankful just 'cuz he's around! Thanks, babe!

We watched a couple of movies and I cross stitched. I finished the left wing, her collar, started her bodice and fleshed out the angel's face (over one - on 28 ct - ugh!) And I was doing so well - making progress on her gown - when I realized that I was using the wrong color - hence the grrrr. So I frogged. Alot. *sigh*

DH got called in for overtime today - short list, but it means a little extra on the next check and that he'll be home later - I like short list call-ins. Besides, we have a family date to watch March of the Penguins tonight.

I have a really bad case of Friday-itis today. I do not want to work. At. All. Just wanna sit and surf...however, the boss does not agree, so back to the grindstone...Have a great weekend everyone!

Thursday

Well, things are looking up, anyway. Rough couple of days, but thanks for the prayers...

Not a whole lot to say right now. I'm kinda zapped - worn out, you know? But I have to say that reading Allen's blog today did a lot toward lifting my spirit - thanks honey! And did everyone check out that new background pic on his blog? Woowee - I am one lucky woman!

Happy New? Year

So this is 2006, huh? Doesn't really look that different to me. Everyone is making lists (me included) of things they remember from 2005, things to change in 2006, etc. I keep hearing how January is like a fresh start - a new page - a clean slate. But this year, for some reason, I'm just not feeling it. It looks the same, it feels the same. And to be honest, so far I'm not impressed. I do have things I want to change in my life this year (I'll not call them "resolutions") but why does change only seem to happen in January? Why can't I change my behaviour or goals or whatever in June or September? Maybe I've caught Terri's funk...I'm pretty certain this headache is to blame for a lot of my current mood...

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In the spirit of not writing about Christmas, cross-stitch or the kiddos: Which is better - having always had 'something' (and you can fill in the blank) in your life or remembering when that 'something' happened or was added?