Tuesday, January 31, 2006
Monthly Book Review
The last day of the month has had different meanings for me at different times in my life. It has almost always meant pay-day, an event that is celebrated world wide. In my “Comptroller” days at the bank it meant making month-end entries, making sure everything was in balance, directors reports, reports, reports, reports…..{occasionally I need a reminder why I NEVER want to go back to that life}.
Today I am starting a new “month-end” tradition. It is my monthly book review. I realized at the end of the year it is too overwhelming to try to go back and recount everything I have read during the year. However, I do like to keep up and to share what I am reading. I will also have a category called books in process. This will keep me from putting a book back on the shelf and never finishing it; if it is unworthy to finish it will go in a “purge the book” category. This is a new undertaking so it may “evolve” over time. My opinions of books are very subjective and probably reflect my personal eclectic taste more than any literary guidelines. Any suggestions to make the list easier or more meaningful are welcomed!
So here we go in random order;
Fiction:
The Presidents Assassin- Brian Haig: A good fast and fun read. I love all of his books.
The Silver Chair- C.S. Lewis- At first I was disappointed in the final installment, but as I finished it I knew that it had left me with more than the others. Some of my views on death and good people with poor allegiances were challenged and revisited. A great series.
Iron Orchid- Stuart Woods- Not one of his best, but it was CIA thriller so it was pretty good.
Non-Fiction:
Getting Things Done- David Allen- A no-nonsense approach to organization that is both simple enough and user friendly enough to actually make me try it. So far so good!
There Are No Shortcuts- Rafe Esquith- Not a book I would ordinarily read, since I am not in the education field and my children are out of school, but a motivating and eye opening look at public education; what is done, what could be done and what we are failing to do. I would recommend it highly for parents and teachers. (Thanks JC)
Spiritual:
A New Kind of Christian- Brian McLaren- Just read it if you haven’t already. It is amazing to hear your frustrations and concerns being addressed in such an open and refreshingly new way.
The Story We Find Ourselves In- Brian McLaren- Probably an even greater impact than the first book. The imagery of our walk with and to God has stuck with me. The simplicity of the story and the fresh way we can tell it to reach people who have not been drenched in our current institutionalism. For the first time I could see myself actually wanting to share the story of the Gospel. I could see me getting past the hang-ups I have always had myself and make it a life that is relevant and meaningful.
Lists to Live By- Christian Collection – an inspiring group of list that motivate, teach and inspire. Again not a book I would normally buy, but a great gift from Terri. I can see a lot of teaching material in this book.
In Process:
A Love Worth Giving- Max Lucado- Easy to read. Very good thoughts on love (I was going to teach from it, but received the following book, so it is kind of on hold)
Cure for the Common Life- Max Lucado- Some great thoughts about finding and using our talents to make our lives anything but common. Reading it at the same time as McLaren makes it seem a little “easy”, but Max is always positive and a “feel-good” kind of writer.
Captivating- John Eldredge- This is a good book for exploring a woman’s heart. I started it earlier and had put it aside. Thanks to Chris I pulled it back out and I finding it to be a rich and beautiful book. I don’t know what it is about Eldredge’s books that make them hard for me to finish….. hopefully I will move this over to the finished pile next month.
Today I am starting a new “month-end” tradition. It is my monthly book review. I realized at the end of the year it is too overwhelming to try to go back and recount everything I have read during the year. However, I do like to keep up and to share what I am reading. I will also have a category called books in process. This will keep me from putting a book back on the shelf and never finishing it; if it is unworthy to finish it will go in a “purge the book” category. This is a new undertaking so it may “evolve” over time. My opinions of books are very subjective and probably reflect my personal eclectic taste more than any literary guidelines. Any suggestions to make the list easier or more meaningful are welcomed!
So here we go in random order;
Fiction:
The Presidents Assassin- Brian Haig: A good fast and fun read. I love all of his books.
The Silver Chair- C.S. Lewis- At first I was disappointed in the final installment, but as I finished it I knew that it had left me with more than the others. Some of my views on death and good people with poor allegiances were challenged and revisited. A great series.
Iron Orchid- Stuart Woods- Not one of his best, but it was CIA thriller so it was pretty good.
Non-Fiction:
Getting Things Done- David Allen- A no-nonsense approach to organization that is both simple enough and user friendly enough to actually make me try it. So far so good!
There Are No Shortcuts- Rafe Esquith- Not a book I would ordinarily read, since I am not in the education field and my children are out of school, but a motivating and eye opening look at public education; what is done, what could be done and what we are failing to do. I would recommend it highly for parents and teachers. (Thanks JC)
Spiritual:
A New Kind of Christian- Brian McLaren- Just read it if you haven’t already. It is amazing to hear your frustrations and concerns being addressed in such an open and refreshingly new way.
The Story We Find Ourselves In- Brian McLaren- Probably an even greater impact than the first book. The imagery of our walk with and to God has stuck with me. The simplicity of the story and the fresh way we can tell it to reach people who have not been drenched in our current institutionalism. For the first time I could see myself actually wanting to share the story of the Gospel. I could see me getting past the hang-ups I have always had myself and make it a life that is relevant and meaningful.
Lists to Live By- Christian Collection – an inspiring group of list that motivate, teach and inspire. Again not a book I would normally buy, but a great gift from Terri. I can see a lot of teaching material in this book.
In Process:
A Love Worth Giving- Max Lucado- Easy to read. Very good thoughts on love (I was going to teach from it, but received the following book, so it is kind of on hold)
Cure for the Common Life- Max Lucado- Some great thoughts about finding and using our talents to make our lives anything but common. Reading it at the same time as McLaren makes it seem a little “easy”, but Max is always positive and a “feel-good” kind of writer.
Captivating- John Eldredge- This is a good book for exploring a woman’s heart. I started it earlier and had put it aside. Thanks to Chris I pulled it back out and I finding it to be a rich and beautiful book. I don’t know what it is about Eldredge’s books that make them hard for me to finish….. hopefully I will move this over to the finished pile next month.
Monday, January 30, 2006
Recovering
This morning I went with Diana to the Doctor. I tried not to breathe in her direction. She and the babies are doing great. They now weigh
1 lb 13 oz (boy)
1 lb 8 oz and
1 lb 9 oz. (girls)
Her uterus is measuring 36 weeks. She will be 26 weeks this Thursday. It is all getting very exciting at this point.
It appears that I am going to survive the worst cold I have had in years. I am sure I got it from Matthew. He was drinking out of my straw and feeding me out of his spoon last Tuesday while he was sick. I guess that direct contact is a little harder for my body to fight off. I still feel like crap but at least I am getting better instead of worse. There was a time Saturday when I was only getting worse and I remember having a great feeling of relief when I realized I had turned the corner and I was slowly getting better.
I couldn’t help but to relate that to times in my life when I have been spiritually “sick”. There comes that turning point when you realize you are looking up instead of down. You are moving closer to God and his way instead of further away. That doesn’t mean you are well, it doesn’t mean you can carry the same load as someone who has not been sick, but it means you are moving in the right direction. You are accepting healing and giving yourself time to get your strength back. I wonder sometimes if we try to pile too much on people when they have just started recovering. Perhaps I can use this aggravating sickness to teach me yet another valuable lesson on patience.
Thanks to all for your well wishes. It truly did brighten my day. I came by the office on Saturday before going to the drug store and was truly uplifted by your care and concern. If I commented on your blog during that time and it did not make sense….forgive me. I was not thinking clearly. (unless of course I said something brilliant, and then I meant to…)
1 lb 13 oz (boy)
1 lb 8 oz and
1 lb 9 oz. (girls)
Her uterus is measuring 36 weeks. She will be 26 weeks this Thursday. It is all getting very exciting at this point.
It appears that I am going to survive the worst cold I have had in years. I am sure I got it from Matthew. He was drinking out of my straw and feeding me out of his spoon last Tuesday while he was sick. I guess that direct contact is a little harder for my body to fight off. I still feel like crap but at least I am getting better instead of worse. There was a time Saturday when I was only getting worse and I remember having a great feeling of relief when I realized I had turned the corner and I was slowly getting better.
I couldn’t help but to relate that to times in my life when I have been spiritually “sick”. There comes that turning point when you realize you are looking up instead of down. You are moving closer to God and his way instead of further away. That doesn’t mean you are well, it doesn’t mean you can carry the same load as someone who has not been sick, but it means you are moving in the right direction. You are accepting healing and giving yourself time to get your strength back. I wonder sometimes if we try to pile too much on people when they have just started recovering. Perhaps I can use this aggravating sickness to teach me yet another valuable lesson on patience.
Thanks to all for your well wishes. It truly did brighten my day. I came by the office on Saturday before going to the drug store and was truly uplifted by your care and concern. If I commented on your blog during that time and it did not make sense….forgive me. I was not thinking clearly. (unless of course I said something brilliant, and then I meant to…)
Friday, January 27, 2006
Giving in...
I hate to give in to the crud....but I'm going home! Maybe some hot soup and my recliner will make me feel better. Still no Internet at home so I will catch up with you all on Monday.
The following quote made me think of all my wonderful blogging and e-mail friends. A note or comment from you all will totally make my day......Thanks.
Todays Quote from Bob Greene
In the absence of the human voice, there is nothing like the written word: thoughts put down by the hand of someone you love. These are thoughts that can be touched, thoughts that can be discovered down through the years, folded and tucked like treasure inside a drawer. What a small courtesy a note is, waiting to be found. It speaks simply, yet profoundly, of connection, continuity and caring. A house is never empty when there is a note waiting on the table. The warmest and most welcoming sight to see when you open the door. (or the computer)
The following quote made me think of all my wonderful blogging and e-mail friends. A note or comment from you all will totally make my day......Thanks.
Todays Quote from Bob Greene
In the absence of the human voice, there is nothing like the written word: thoughts put down by the hand of someone you love. These are thoughts that can be touched, thoughts that can be discovered down through the years, folded and tucked like treasure inside a drawer. What a small courtesy a note is, waiting to be found. It speaks simply, yet profoundly, of connection, continuity and caring. A house is never empty when there is a note waiting on the table. The warmest and most welcoming sight to see when you open the door. (or the computer)
What I was trying to say...
Sometimes the comments to my post convince me that I didn't explain myself very well. This started as a comment but grew long.... So in rebuttal to yesterday's post....
For the record, I don’t ask “why” when it can’t be answered. I don’t ask God why fish can’t live out of water and I can’t survive in it. I don’t ask him why I can’t grow into my weight or why I was born a girl. I realize when things just ARE.
But, if you are going to ask me to rotate my tires every 5,000 miles tell me why. If you are telling me to make two copies of something and place it in a certain box, tell me why. If you think it is vital to my salvation to come to church on Sunday night, or to always have pews that face forward, tell me why.
It may seem a waste of energy or like a dog chasing its tail to you, but I cannot throw my energy or my passion into something I don’t “get”. I think when we fail to ask ourselves if something makes sense or if it is still relevant we open the door to Satan. He loves it when we are “fat, dumb and happy”.
Sometimes as Val said, I am too inpatient to hear the answers, especially when I have already decided you are wrong…. But if you don’t feel strongly enough about something to defend and teach it {SG I had the SAME Algebra teacher!} then don’t try to insist that I do the same things.
{For the record Terri, I only obey the traffic laws that make sense. I run every red light in town in the mornings, and seldom EVER drive the speed limit….I just hold it under 100 mph.}
Anyway, I just didn't want you all thinking I was miserably running around trying to figure out why the sun comes up in the east or how TV works or why chocolate always gets on a white shirt...I just want you to be able to explain to me why things or practices are important for ME to do.
For the record, I don’t ask “why” when it can’t be answered. I don’t ask God why fish can’t live out of water and I can’t survive in it. I don’t ask him why I can’t grow into my weight or why I was born a girl. I realize when things just ARE.
But, if you are going to ask me to rotate my tires every 5,000 miles tell me why. If you are telling me to make two copies of something and place it in a certain box, tell me why. If you think it is vital to my salvation to come to church on Sunday night, or to always have pews that face forward, tell me why.
It may seem a waste of energy or like a dog chasing its tail to you, but I cannot throw my energy or my passion into something I don’t “get”. I think when we fail to ask ourselves if something makes sense or if it is still relevant we open the door to Satan. He loves it when we are “fat, dumb and happy”.
Sometimes as Val said, I am too inpatient to hear the answers, especially when I have already decided you are wrong…. But if you don’t feel strongly enough about something to defend and teach it {SG I had the SAME Algebra teacher!} then don’t try to insist that I do the same things.
{For the record Terri, I only obey the traffic laws that make sense. I run every red light in town in the mornings, and seldom EVER drive the speed limit….I just hold it under 100 mph.}
Anyway, I just didn't want you all thinking I was miserably running around trying to figure out why the sun comes up in the east or how TV works or why chocolate always gets on a white shirt...I just want you to be able to explain to me why things or practices are important for ME to do.
Thursday, January 26, 2006
WHY
I am feeling much better. I was able to hold out for two hours of intense tennis drills. My arms and hands are quite sore, and yes, now that I have left the courts my throat has started hurting again. But, it is nothing serious, just one of life’s little inconveniences.
Terri posted today about how going to the Doctor all the time was about “following the rules” for her. She stated that she trusted the Doctors and if they said come every year then she would be there. She also said that she would do anything someone asked her to do if she trusted them. (It is obvious to all that she has never learned to trust anyone in the Department of Transportation.)
I approach things a little differently. Since the fifth grade when I had to write the word “why” as many times as I could fit it onto a page as punishment for asking “why” too much, I have realized that I have a “need to know”. Not just do I need to know the “what’s”, I want to know “why’s”! If I am not having any problems, if I stay in tune with my body and take fairly good care of myself, why do I need to go pay a Doctor $99.00 plus lab fees just to tell me that I am healthy? (Don’t give me a lecture folks, I am just telling you about my personality.)
It don’t matter how much I trust someone, I must understand why I am doing something before I can do it. Now I do believe that if I was in the middle of a crisis of some sort that would be explanation enough, but otherwise I am going to need to know why I am doing something. I have never seen this as a flaw in my personality. However, I am sure that many people who have tried to train me to do something would disagree. I can’t tell you the number of times I have heard “we have just always done it that way” flung at me in a desperate attempt to get me to shut up.
I think this character trait (flaw if you must) may be what is feeding into my current state of discontentment. I simply cannot accept tradition as a good enough explanation as to why we do something. This “need to know” can also fuel frustration. There are some things God chose to keep from us. I’m cool with that, as long as I am sure he didn’t really want me to figure it out. One positive thing is that this “need” drives me to study. I read as many books as some ministers out there. I try to stretch my brain and at the same time keep my heart open.
Perhaps this tiny glimpse into the way I view things will help you understand me a little better. Maybe you can even understand my “flat-world” analogy. I do realize that if you don’t have the same “need to know” you won’t even care how, what, or if I think....
Terri posted today about how going to the Doctor all the time was about “following the rules” for her. She stated that she trusted the Doctors and if they said come every year then she would be there. She also said that she would do anything someone asked her to do if she trusted them. (It is obvious to all that she has never learned to trust anyone in the Department of Transportation.)
I approach things a little differently. Since the fifth grade when I had to write the word “why” as many times as I could fit it onto a page as punishment for asking “why” too much, I have realized that I have a “need to know”. Not just do I need to know the “what’s”, I want to know “why’s”! If I am not having any problems, if I stay in tune with my body and take fairly good care of myself, why do I need to go pay a Doctor $99.00 plus lab fees just to tell me that I am healthy? (Don’t give me a lecture folks, I am just telling you about my personality.)
It don’t matter how much I trust someone, I must understand why I am doing something before I can do it. Now I do believe that if I was in the middle of a crisis of some sort that would be explanation enough, but otherwise I am going to need to know why I am doing something. I have never seen this as a flaw in my personality. However, I am sure that many people who have tried to train me to do something would disagree. I can’t tell you the number of times I have heard “we have just always done it that way” flung at me in a desperate attempt to get me to shut up.
I think this character trait (flaw if you must) may be what is feeding into my current state of discontentment. I simply cannot accept tradition as a good enough explanation as to why we do something. This “need to know” can also fuel frustration. There are some things God chose to keep from us. I’m cool with that, as long as I am sure he didn’t really want me to figure it out. One positive thing is that this “need” drives me to study. I read as many books as some ministers out there. I try to stretch my brain and at the same time keep my heart open.
Perhaps this tiny glimpse into the way I view things will help you understand me a little better. Maybe you can even understand my “flat-world” analogy. I do realize that if you don’t have the same “need to know” you won’t even care how, what, or if I think....
Thursday
I feel like someone has forced me to swallow a ball of "steel-wool" and then pulled it back out.
My throat is red, raw and swollen. However, I am still going to a tennis clinic this morning. Dedication, or lunancy? I'm not real sure either.
Perhaps I will have some brilliant thoughts while on the road in the meantime I will leave you with this quote from Robert Frost.
"You are educated when you have the ability to listen to almost anything without losing your temper or your self confidence."
My throat is red, raw and swollen. However, I am still going to a tennis clinic this morning. Dedication, or lunancy? I'm not real sure either.
Perhaps I will have some brilliant thoughts while on the road in the meantime I will leave you with this quote from Robert Frost.
"You are educated when you have the ability to listen to almost anything without losing your temper or your self confidence."
Wednesday, January 25, 2006
How Rude!
I heard on a new program about a company who was going to institute a “no whining” policy. Basically if you whine and complain you lose your job. The “news” people were debating this issue and were certain that it would not be stood for in American Society.
My husband has just returned from Japan. One of the biggest differences in culture (other than food he thought should be reserved for “Fear-Factor”) was the extreme politeness and patience of the Japanese people. He made the comment that if he had been in the US when the airport delays were going on he was sure he would have seen a fight. However the people there remained calm, patient and kind.
Last night I was participating in my new sleep stealing addiction of watching the Australian Open. The match was Nicolas Kiefer against Sebastian Grosjean. Kiefer ended up with the win after 5 sets and four hours and 48 minutes of tennis. But I turned the TV off when Kiefer when on his third diatribe against the officials over a line call. I don’t watch tennis to see grown men acting like babies when they don’t get their way.
My husband has just returned from Japan. One of the biggest differences in culture (other than food he thought should be reserved for “Fear-Factor”) was the extreme politeness and patience of the Japanese people. He made the comment that if he had been in the US when the airport delays were going on he was sure he would have seen a fight. However the people there remained calm, patient and kind.
Last night I was participating in my new sleep stealing addiction of watching the Australian Open. The match was Nicolas Kiefer against Sebastian Grosjean. Kiefer ended up with the win after 5 sets and four hours and 48 minutes of tennis. But I turned the TV off when Kiefer when on his third diatribe against the officials over a line call. I don’t watch tennis to see grown men acting like babies when they don’t get their way.
.
I don’t even want to mention the airing of American Idol last night, but I must. They spent the whole show leading up to a foul mouthed loser named Rhonetta who had plenty of negative things to say about everyone. For some reason the network assumed that seeing this display of vulgarity would keep viewers around until the bitter end.
Philippians 2:14 Do everything without complaining or arguing (NIV) or Do everything readily and cheerfully—no bickering, no second guessing allowed! (The Message)
Are rudeness, bickering and complaining the accepted norm in our lives? Are we any different than those around us? Do any of the above words describe love? Will they know we are Christians by our love?
Tuesday, January 24, 2006
He's Back!!!!
Finally after an experience in airports that would rival the Tom Hank’s movie The Terminal he is home. Currently still recovering from jet-lag and a bruised buttock from almost 24 straight hours sitting on a plane (thirteen of them while it sat on a runway) I left him sleeping peacefully this morning.
It is somewhat heartening to hear how the most efficient country in the world can almost shut down when it experiences two inches of snow. (So back off when we Alabamians shut down when we have a couple of inches.) David had the comment that it was the same thing that was the demise of the Japaneese during WWII (being the WWII buff that he is). They operate with complete and total efficiency until a disaster of any magnitude throws them off the planned course. Then no one is properly trained to think for themselves and solve problems. See, I am telling you flying by the seat of your pants is the only way to live!!
As for me and my dilemmas, don’t worry. I am just a traveler who has always thought the world was flat. Since discovering that it was round I must find a way to change my course. I don’t have to act quickly or rashly, after all I am not going to fall off the end of the earth, but I do have to start formulating a plan to navigate with the greatest amount of efficiency. (I could have been a political speech writer).
My quote for the day comes from Jack Roush (not my favorite team owner but he did get ole’ Kurt Busch at the end of the year) when asked about Toyota entering the NASCAR cup and Busch races in 2007…..
”You know it is kind of like breakfast food you are either a chicken or a pig. The chicken contributes but the pig is committed. I am committed to winning.”
When it comes to the life I live for Jesus am I a chicken or a pig?
It is somewhat heartening to hear how the most efficient country in the world can almost shut down when it experiences two inches of snow. (So back off when we Alabamians shut down when we have a couple of inches.) David had the comment that it was the same thing that was the demise of the Japaneese during WWII (being the WWII buff that he is). They operate with complete and total efficiency until a disaster of any magnitude throws them off the planned course. Then no one is properly trained to think for themselves and solve problems. See, I am telling you flying by the seat of your pants is the only way to live!!
As for me and my dilemmas, don’t worry. I am just a traveler who has always thought the world was flat. Since discovering that it was round I must find a way to change my course. I don’t have to act quickly or rashly, after all I am not going to fall off the end of the earth, but I do have to start formulating a plan to navigate with the greatest amount of efficiency. (I could have been a political speech writer).
My quote for the day comes from Jack Roush (not my favorite team owner but he did get ole’ Kurt Busch at the end of the year) when asked about Toyota entering the NASCAR cup and Busch races in 2007…..
”You know it is kind of like breakfast food you are either a chicken or a pig. The chicken contributes but the pig is committed. I am committed to winning.”
When it comes to the life I live for Jesus am I a chicken or a pig?
Monday, January 23, 2006
Drifting
David is still not home. He is back in the Country; he called me from Detroit last night. He has been in the same clothes with no shower for four days. He is separated from his luggage and has not eaten a good meal since Friday. He should arrive home today and I might add just in the knick of time. …. The internet has been down at home since Tuesday. Shelby has brought the dead possum back (she is such a giver) and I am getting real used to sleeping in the middle of the bed….when I finally get in bed. I have also started staying up late and watching tennis every night. Truly I know that he is exhausted and I will be glad for him to be back at home.
When you are dissatisfied with something in your life does it take over your thinking? I know that there have been many times in life when I was unhappy with my weight or my job but I was always able to forget about it. But once I decided I was going to change things, I became consumed with thoughts of how to change. Once the decision is made and the plan is in place my brain will relax and go back on auto-pilot. The problem currently is I am in that “I know I need to change” mode. But I don’t have a plan. I am not even sure what I am looking for. But I know me. I will not be satisfied until I have worked through this. I can try to forget about it, but it will be like a pebble in my shoe, it will just continue to annoy me until I make a decision and act on it.
I also find that when I am in this drifting mode I don’t have much to say. Sorry, perhaps you could pray that I will find peace soon.
When you are dissatisfied with something in your life does it take over your thinking? I know that there have been many times in life when I was unhappy with my weight or my job but I was always able to forget about it. But once I decided I was going to change things, I became consumed with thoughts of how to change. Once the decision is made and the plan is in place my brain will relax and go back on auto-pilot. The problem currently is I am in that “I know I need to change” mode. But I don’t have a plan. I am not even sure what I am looking for. But I know me. I will not be satisfied until I have worked through this. I can try to forget about it, but it will be like a pebble in my shoe, it will just continue to annoy me until I make a decision and act on it.
I also find that when I am in this drifting mode I don’t have much to say. Sorry, perhaps you could pray that I will find peace soon.
Sunday, January 22, 2006
Just tell me Why!
David is still not home. Tokyo had 2 inches of snow on the ground when he was scheduled to leave. This is their first major snow since 2001. Hopefully he will make it home today since it was supposed to be sunny and around 44° there. I hate being stuck in airports waiting, but then again I just hate waiting.
If I sounded like I was telling our stories at Terri’s expense yesterday, I didn’t mean to. I would gladly tell stuff on myself but I just don’t do anything that interesting or funny. Also, I would never tell anything on Terri that she would not tell on herself. She knows I love her, and other than her obsession with time, I mostly understand her.
I am reading the book Getting Things Done by David Allen. I can’t wait to get started implementing this program into my life. One of the most profound thoughts that I read last night as I watched Andy Roddick get beat (again!) is that we should question the purpose of everything we do. Now, you would think he is just talking about our professional lives, but he encourages you to take this process through to every part of your life. I just wonder what things I will change when I get down to figuring out WHY I do them in the first place. It is a scary and yet exciting thought. Can you think of things in your life that you quit doing when you figured out there was no real purpose for doing them?
If I sounded like I was telling our stories at Terri’s expense yesterday, I didn’t mean to. I would gladly tell stuff on myself but I just don’t do anything that interesting or funny. Also, I would never tell anything on Terri that she would not tell on herself. She knows I love her, and other than her obsession with time, I mostly understand her.
I am reading the book Getting Things Done by David Allen. I can’t wait to get started implementing this program into my life. One of the most profound thoughts that I read last night as I watched Andy Roddick get beat (again!) is that we should question the purpose of everything we do. Now, you would think he is just talking about our professional lives, but he encourages you to take this process through to every part of your life. I just wonder what things I will change when I get down to figuring out WHY I do them in the first place. It is a scary and yet exciting thought. Can you think of things in your life that you quit doing when you figured out there was no real purpose for doing them?
Saturday, January 21, 2006
Hotlanta
The rain kept us from racing but we still have some stories to tell.
Terri has hit the high points on her blog; somewhat amusing to me is the parts that she left out. Even though we live by the mantra “If you don’t go, you don’t know” I will attempt to fill in some of the gaps.
First story is the map of the city on the sidewalk after we emerge from the underground mall, that is NOT underground Atlanta….We are innocently looking at this map trying to figure out which way we should go to get to the real “Underground Atlanta”. A friendly and helpful guy in a windbreaker that said “Jesus Cares” helped us to better read the map and figure out just where to turn. Why “thank-you” we said in our sweetest southern voices. “Could you spare me a couple of dollars to maybe buy a hamburger or something” he replies. Stunned that information cost money in this southern town Terri whips out a cool crisp one dollar bill to feed this man for a week. I, understanding that if real hunger were an issue offered him over half of a perfectly good chocolate milk shake (there were no strange crunchy things found in mine). Well, either my germs looked bad or hunger was not the real issue because he turned up his nose and shook his head like I had offended him somehow. As he continued to look at me expectantly I thrust my hand into my purse and came out with TWICE as much as Terri. (you know, I have to one up her at SOMETHING!)
After we walked by a guitarist playing the one line he knew of “Very Superstitious” we proceeded to enter the real Underground Atlanta. We soon discovered that there was nothing going on that you couldn’t find in any mall in America (well except maybe the Tarot card readings) we then emerged outside of Johnny Rockets. The song playing on the loud speaker was the classic by Eric Carmen and The Raspberries “Go All The Way”. As I am singing the words Terri says “Oh is that what that says, I thought it said Please Go AWAAAY”. Folks you can’t make this stuff up, that blonde stuff is not an act.
We then speak politely to a statue of a man and a boy and find our way to the Visitor’s Bureau. We are sure they can direct us to some live music for the evening. This lady could only tell us what we couldn’t do, how far we would have to drive to hear any good music, and how we could go see Cats or walk through the park (She loves the park). Well while I was chatting up this very epitome of an anti-Atlanta tourist person, Terri is studying the map. She has plotted a course back to our hotel. Problem was to take her route we would have had to crawl over a 10 foot fence and then jump over a line of dumpsters. We opted to go back the way we came.
After convincing Terri that even if she could outrun the vendor in the wheelchair, her blonde hair might stand out a little on this particular sidewalk, we proceeded on to the Hotel.
We couldn’t find any Karaoke or any live music; but as always we managed to have a good time and were in bed by 10:00 p.m. (that is Eastern Time, so by our time we were in bed at 9:00!!)Yep, two wild and crazy girls!!
Terri has hit the high points on her blog; somewhat amusing to me is the parts that she left out. Even though we live by the mantra “If you don’t go, you don’t know” I will attempt to fill in some of the gaps.
First story is the map of the city on the sidewalk after we emerge from the underground mall, that is NOT underground Atlanta….We are innocently looking at this map trying to figure out which way we should go to get to the real “Underground Atlanta”. A friendly and helpful guy in a windbreaker that said “Jesus Cares” helped us to better read the map and figure out just where to turn. Why “thank-you” we said in our sweetest southern voices. “Could you spare me a couple of dollars to maybe buy a hamburger or something” he replies. Stunned that information cost money in this southern town Terri whips out a cool crisp one dollar bill to feed this man for a week. I, understanding that if real hunger were an issue offered him over half of a perfectly good chocolate milk shake (there were no strange crunchy things found in mine). Well, either my germs looked bad or hunger was not the real issue because he turned up his nose and shook his head like I had offended him somehow. As he continued to look at me expectantly I thrust my hand into my purse and came out with TWICE as much as Terri. (you know, I have to one up her at SOMETHING!)
After we walked by a guitarist playing the one line he knew of “Very Superstitious” we proceeded to enter the real Underground Atlanta. We soon discovered that there was nothing going on that you couldn’t find in any mall in America (well except maybe the Tarot card readings) we then emerged outside of Johnny Rockets. The song playing on the loud speaker was the classic by Eric Carmen and The Raspberries “Go All The Way”. As I am singing the words Terri says “Oh is that what that says, I thought it said Please Go AWAAAY”. Folks you can’t make this stuff up, that blonde stuff is not an act.
We then speak politely to a statue of a man and a boy and find our way to the Visitor’s Bureau. We are sure they can direct us to some live music for the evening. This lady could only tell us what we couldn’t do, how far we would have to drive to hear any good music, and how we could go see Cats or walk through the park (She loves the park). Well while I was chatting up this very epitome of an anti-Atlanta tourist person, Terri is studying the map. She has plotted a course back to our hotel. Problem was to take her route we would have had to crawl over a 10 foot fence and then jump over a line of dumpsters. We opted to go back the way we came.
After convincing Terri that even if she could outrun the vendor in the wheelchair, her blonde hair might stand out a little on this particular sidewalk, we proceeded on to the Hotel.
We couldn’t find any Karaoke or any live music; but as always we managed to have a good time and were in bed by 10:00 p.m. (that is Eastern Time, so by our time we were in bed at 9:00!!)Yep, two wild and crazy girls!!
Thursday, January 19, 2006
What's Up With Me!
I know that you will find it difficult to believe that creating the invitation shown to the left took me much of my day....Of course my real job kept getting in the way. It is hard to believe that some people get paid to do this type of thing {Terri}. Ordinarily I would just consider this a lot of fun, but when you should have had them in the mail Tuesday and you are leaving town tomorrow....the stress mounts. In addition to this task, I had to fix everyone's e-mail this morning. I had to scan a blank loan package and put it in an Adobe format(around 26 pages) where we would be able to e-mail it to people. For some reason no one else in this office seems to be able to do any of these things....Have I mentioned I am on commission, yep, I don't get paid for these little "side-jobs" although everyone expects me to do them. Is that going the extra mile? (I know, it might qualify if I would quit griping about it!)
In other news David is still in Tokyo He is supposed to take one of those bullet trains today to a new machine manufacturer that is located about 4 hours from Tokyo. Chances are he will have a more thrilling ride than I will this weekend (NOT!!) We will both be getting back home Saturday night.
Diana got another good report at the Doctor's office, although she is still not gaining weight. I say as long as the babies are growing it will just be that much less she has to loose.
I posted some new shots of Matthew on my photo blog. You can see them by clicking here.
My son invited me to dinner tonight. He had cooked it himself. He was having his weekly devotional at his house after dinner. I am so proud of him and this group. You know I told you about him starting that last January! They have been faithful in keeping it up.
That's all folks....gotta go pack for my weekend trip to Hot-lanta!!
**For Locals Only- Diana only felt like having one shower so the invitations are only for family and friends that do not attend our church...just so you know why you don't get one**
Moving out of the way
Last night I announced to my class that I would not be teaching after the first of March. I will not be able to predict how tied down I will be with Diana and the babies. She may spend a couple of weeks in the hospital before they are born and it is a very high probability that the babies will spend a couple of weeks there after they arrive.
Our quarter at church runs December, March, June, September, I don’t know why unless it is to coordinate with school starting in September (even though it starts in August). Anyway after the initial “what will we do?” questions we ended up having two ladies who were willing to co-teach the class. I was very proud of them.
Sometimes when we feel guilt over letting a project go we may actually be standing in the way of someone else rising to the occasion. I am not really a good teacher, but I have been willing and have tried to rattle some cages to help this special group of ladies to question the things they have always accepted as undisputable. I am not sure that I have been effective in changing the way they think, but it has truly helped me to grow. It is strange but I feel somewhat like I felt when I gave my children away in marriage, somewhat sad that they will be continuing without me, but extremely proud of any role I have had in preparing them to do so.
Our quarter at church runs December, March, June, September, I don’t know why unless it is to coordinate with school starting in September (even though it starts in August). Anyway after the initial “what will we do?” questions we ended up having two ladies who were willing to co-teach the class. I was very proud of them.
Sometimes when we feel guilt over letting a project go we may actually be standing in the way of someone else rising to the occasion. I am not really a good teacher, but I have been willing and have tried to rattle some cages to help this special group of ladies to question the things they have always accepted as undisputable. I am not sure that I have been effective in changing the way they think, but it has truly helped me to grow. It is strange but I feel somewhat like I felt when I gave my children away in marriage, somewhat sad that they will be continuing without me, but extremely proud of any role I have had in preparing them to do so.
Wednesday, January 18, 2006
Help!
It rained yesterday…..it rained all day and all night. I woke up to the sound of wind and rain and decided not to go the gym. I am enjoying having the house to myself, (but I am grateful it is a temporary thing.)
When I got home I knew that I had to work out. I have a little mini-gym in my basement that is actually pretty well equipped. I can not get in the habit of skipping days and not do anything to make up. So I changed clothes and went to work….working out. I was full of self talk. You know, “this is so much better than that class, I am getting to work out all of my body parts…and I am not having to do the things I don’t like (running and jumping jacks)”. I was feeling pretty smug and was already setting up my work-out plan for the coming week. ..
Then I got on the leg press machine. I always alternate calf presses with my leg presses and I don’t have to release the bar on the calf presses, I just push the weight up. Well on the second set I went straight to calf presses and when I finished and let my legs down, I realized too late that I had not put the stop bar back in place. So I am laying at a 45° angle with my knees in my face and my feet trying to hold up 180 lbs. No matter how I try I can’t push this weight back up, I just can’t get the leverage. I cry out, “Help me God, I am going to break my feet!” I try raising up my body and pushing with my arms, but still I cannot get a good angle to push. OK, Miss Smarty Pants, here you are home alone miles away from your nearest neighbor, no phone within reach and you are about to break both of your feet! What were you saying about working out alone?
In a last desperate attempt my shoe started slipping off of my foot, impulsively I pulled both feet out of my shoes and fortunately the shoes held the machine up. Whew, that was too close for my comfort! I was able to push the machine up to the first stop with my hips (picture it if you must it had to be hilarious) thenI pushed up with my feet as usual and left it alone!!
God did not make us to live in a vacuum. He instilled in us the need and the desire to spend our time and our lives with other people. Sometimes we just need them to get us out of a jam, but sometimes we need their encouragement, their smiles and their love just to pull us through. I still may work out by myself in my basement, but I will know that I need people, and I appreciate having them around when I get myself in trouble!
When I got home I knew that I had to work out. I have a little mini-gym in my basement that is actually pretty well equipped. I can not get in the habit of skipping days and not do anything to make up. So I changed clothes and went to work….working out. I was full of self talk. You know, “this is so much better than that class, I am getting to work out all of my body parts…and I am not having to do the things I don’t like (running and jumping jacks)”. I was feeling pretty smug and was already setting up my work-out plan for the coming week. ..
Then I got on the leg press machine. I always alternate calf presses with my leg presses and I don’t have to release the bar on the calf presses, I just push the weight up. Well on the second set I went straight to calf presses and when I finished and let my legs down, I realized too late that I had not put the stop bar back in place. So I am laying at a 45° angle with my knees in my face and my feet trying to hold up 180 lbs. No matter how I try I can’t push this weight back up, I just can’t get the leverage. I cry out, “Help me God, I am going to break my feet!” I try raising up my body and pushing with my arms, but still I cannot get a good angle to push. OK, Miss Smarty Pants, here you are home alone miles away from your nearest neighbor, no phone within reach and you are about to break both of your feet! What were you saying about working out alone?
In a last desperate attempt my shoe started slipping off of my foot, impulsively I pulled both feet out of my shoes and fortunately the shoes held the machine up. Whew, that was too close for my comfort! I was able to push the machine up to the first stop with my hips (picture it if you must it had to be hilarious) thenI pushed up with my feet as usual and left it alone!!
God did not make us to live in a vacuum. He instilled in us the need and the desire to spend our time and our lives with other people. Sometimes we just need them to get us out of a jam, but sometimes we need their encouragement, their smiles and their love just to pull us through. I still may work out by myself in my basement, but I will know that I need people, and I appreciate having them around when I get myself in trouble!
Tuesday, January 17, 2006
Focus.....
**Travel update: David called at 7:00 a.m. He had just arrived in Japan after a 11 ½ hour flight from Los Angeles. This was on the heels of a 5 hour flight from Detroit where they had missed the direct flight the day before. He had not yet been to bed, but his luggage had caught up with him and the flight though long was uneventful.**
I sometimes tend to lose focus. I have so much I want to do that I can get overwhelmed instead of methodically just getting it all done. Take my reading for example. In the last week I have started 4 books! Yep, four books at the same time. I get frustrated because I don’t feel like I have enough time to read in all of them, read a few blogs and get my Bible reading in all in one night….and the Australian Open is on this week! However, last night I did manage to do most of that. I did not read in one of the books, since it is the one I am teaching out of and I am already ahead of what I will be covering tomorrow night. I had to sacrifice a little sleep to be able to get all of that done, but I did it. These nights home alone for me are precious and few, so I have to make the most of them.
On the surface you might want to say, “Donna, you are tying to do too much at once.” But I would argue with that. You see, I am sacrificing a host of other things that I enjoy. I am expanding my mind in several different directions at one time and yet I am keeping up with the challenge. You see, I know my limitations. I also know my strengths and more importantly I know my weaknesses.
I think we have to be able to discern all of those things to be effective, especially in our service to God. We can be involved in several similar things at the same time, but we must be careful to keep focus and to realize that participating in some things will require us to sacrifice other things. Here it is vital that we know our strengths and our weaknesses where we can choose wisely. Focusing on what we are trying to accomplish is the most important thing. When we sharpen our focus we will just know what things we need to eliminate from our schedules.
I sometimes tend to lose focus. I have so much I want to do that I can get overwhelmed instead of methodically just getting it all done. Take my reading for example. In the last week I have started 4 books! Yep, four books at the same time. I get frustrated because I don’t feel like I have enough time to read in all of them, read a few blogs and get my Bible reading in all in one night….and the Australian Open is on this week! However, last night I did manage to do most of that. I did not read in one of the books, since it is the one I am teaching out of and I am already ahead of what I will be covering tomorrow night. I had to sacrifice a little sleep to be able to get all of that done, but I did it. These nights home alone for me are precious and few, so I have to make the most of them.
On the surface you might want to say, “Donna, you are tying to do too much at once.” But I would argue with that. You see, I am sacrificing a host of other things that I enjoy. I am expanding my mind in several different directions at one time and yet I am keeping up with the challenge. You see, I know my limitations. I also know my strengths and more importantly I know my weaknesses.
I think we have to be able to discern all of those things to be effective, especially in our service to God. We can be involved in several similar things at the same time, but we must be careful to keep focus and to realize that participating in some things will require us to sacrifice other things. Here it is vital that we know our strengths and our weaknesses where we can choose wisely. Focusing on what we are trying to accomplish is the most important thing. When we sharpen our focus we will just know what things we need to eliminate from our schedules.
Monday, January 16, 2006
More blessed to give.....
My dog Shelby is a collector. She really is not much of a hunter, but she does like to collect dead animals, fish, birds, hammers, nails, bottles of Round Up, stuffed animals, life jackets and a host of other things an industrious dog might find in a lakeside community. I have never seen her hunt and kill anything except this one time when we had an over-population of kittens.....but I still think she was just trying to play with them. Obviously they did not respond too well to being tossed around and scooped up in her mouth.
Most of the neighbors are weekenders so I am sure they don't miss their stuff. The funniest thing had to be the day she brought home the hammer and the next day brought a bag of nails. Evidently the noise was interferring with her sleep.
I am sure she was the deliverer of the dead POSSUM (obviously we Alabamians are supposed to drop the O) that I found in my yard on Sunday. Thankfully the carcass was flattened to frisbee state, thus the odor had remained where the prize was initially discovered. I tried gently removing the body with a stick, but Shelby thought the stick was for her to play with. Eventually I just grabbed the big old long tail and tossed it! One of the joys of living in a remote area with a high bank is that you can toss stuff off of it. I just hope the retreiver in Shelby don't resurface and convince her to bring the thing back!!
She has come to expect that I will give her a treat when I leave and that I will stop and scratch her back when I get home. But she is always giving back, I am sure she don't understand when I don't appreciate her "finer" gifts.
Not Remotely Interested
I know that I am spoiled. I know that I am very fortunate to have a husband who shares in the house work and who takes care of me. It often flies in the face of my independent streak to admit how much he does…..but not really. Truly independent (and somewhat flighty) people are happy to let others deal with details. I am such a person.
But I am capable. I made three visits yesterday, went to church, had lunch with Derek, Mary and Matthew, went to the grocery store, baked chicken breast to last all week, grilled some hamburgers, finished a book, started another, washed dishes then unloaded and loaded the dishwasher, washed two loads of clothes, took out the garbage, fed the dogs, TOSSED A DEAD OPOSSUM OUT OF MY YARD, got my clothes ready for work today, but then, then I hit a wall. I thought I was going to be defeated…..
Yes, I entered the man’s world and had there been the choice I would have cried “uncle” and refused to figure this out, but alas there was none there to hear my call and shrieks of frustration, so I persevered.
What can be so hard you ask? TV!! We have a high definition monitor TV in the living room. Really, all I was trying to do was turn it on to record 24 where we could watch it when David gets back home. But attached to said TV is, the satellite system (which has a remote), the tuner for antennae TV (with remote), a surround sound system (with remote) DVD player (with remote) and finally a VCR (with, you guessed it…another remote)! Well, none of the said remotes would turn on the TV! I was sure something must have been changed when the new tuner was hooked up so I pull the TV out from the wall. I trace the cables to the proper apparatus…..this being much easier said than done. Finally I got the TV to come on (manually, no remote involved) but still could not get past a blue screen. This is the point where I would normally say in a somewhat elevated tone “David, I cannot figure out all of these stupid remotes!!” fortunately for him he is on his way to Japan! Finally I realize that the VCR must be on for the satellite feed to pass through to the TV. But then none of the stupid remotes will work on the satellite. So I manually change the channel from 310 or something down to channel 6 to get the Fox feed. I test the VCR to make sure it is recording (again manually), I wait for the football game to end, go in and press “record” manually and leave the room. When the 2 hour premiere ends I manually stop the VCR and manually turn off the TV. Tonight I will skip all the steps that involve the remotes and just get the job done!!
In life we often have to sift through all of the handy-dandy conveniences we have added to get down to the simple truths of what will and what will not work. Many times the best way, the way that will work will not be the most convenient.
But I am capable. I made three visits yesterday, went to church, had lunch with Derek, Mary and Matthew, went to the grocery store, baked chicken breast to last all week, grilled some hamburgers, finished a book, started another, washed dishes then unloaded and loaded the dishwasher, washed two loads of clothes, took out the garbage, fed the dogs, TOSSED A DEAD OPOSSUM OUT OF MY YARD, got my clothes ready for work today, but then, then I hit a wall. I thought I was going to be defeated…..
Yes, I entered the man’s world and had there been the choice I would have cried “uncle” and refused to figure this out, but alas there was none there to hear my call and shrieks of frustration, so I persevered.
What can be so hard you ask? TV!! We have a high definition monitor TV in the living room. Really, all I was trying to do was turn it on to record 24 where we could watch it when David gets back home. But attached to said TV is, the satellite system (which has a remote), the tuner for antennae TV (with remote), a surround sound system (with remote) DVD player (with remote) and finally a VCR (with, you guessed it…another remote)! Well, none of the said remotes would turn on the TV! I was sure something must have been changed when the new tuner was hooked up so I pull the TV out from the wall. I trace the cables to the proper apparatus…..this being much easier said than done. Finally I got the TV to come on (manually, no remote involved) but still could not get past a blue screen. This is the point where I would normally say in a somewhat elevated tone “David, I cannot figure out all of these stupid remotes!!” fortunately for him he is on his way to Japan! Finally I realize that the VCR must be on for the satellite feed to pass through to the TV. But then none of the stupid remotes will work on the satellite. So I manually change the channel from 310 or something down to channel 6 to get the Fox feed. I test the VCR to make sure it is recording (again manually), I wait for the football game to end, go in and press “record” manually and leave the room. When the 2 hour premiere ends I manually stop the VCR and manually turn off the TV. Tonight I will skip all the steps that involve the remotes and just get the job done!!
In life we often have to sift through all of the handy-dandy conveniences we have added to get down to the simple truths of what will and what will not work. Many times the best way, the way that will work will not be the most convenient.
Sunday, January 15, 2006
Over, What and Who---the see or Sea
David left today on a business trip to Japan for a week. I would appreciate your prayers for his safety. He was really dreading the trip. He is the pickiest eater I know. He is not so much worried about telling them what he can't eat as he is about offending some protocol. I told him him just to say he was allergic. It is true enough in a sense, it will make him throw up. I tried to tell him to relax and enjoy the trip, it is probably a once in a life time opportunity. I don't guess Japan would be on my short list of places I would like to visit, but, I wouldn't turn down the opportunity either.
I finished the first McLaren book last night. Oddly enough he quotes from the C.S. Lewis book I am reading right now (The Last Battle). Somehow that brings the point home in an even greater way. I can't wait to start the next book, but I have a few to read in front of it.
24 starts tonight!! Woo hoo! This is the only TV series I get excited about. However, I will record the programs (tonight and tomorrow night) and wait to watch them with David...maybe I will actually start the VCR properly this time.
Today I chose to "be" a Christian instead of going to learn more about how to "be" a Christian. I used the time set aside for Sunday School to make a visit. I don't know why but I still think my mother would be disappointed in me for making that choice. I however felt that I chose the greater thing today. I wonder why I don't make that choice more often?
I finished the first McLaren book last night. Oddly enough he quotes from the C.S. Lewis book I am reading right now (The Last Battle). Somehow that brings the point home in an even greater way. I can't wait to start the next book, but I have a few to read in front of it.
24 starts tonight!! Woo hoo! This is the only TV series I get excited about. However, I will record the programs (tonight and tomorrow night) and wait to watch them with David...maybe I will actually start the VCR properly this time.
Today I chose to "be" a Christian instead of going to learn more about how to "be" a Christian. I used the time set aside for Sunday School to make a visit. I don't know why but I still think my mother would be disappointed in me for making that choice. I however felt that I chose the greater thing today. I wonder why I don't make that choice more often?
Friday, January 13, 2006
Request
Could you all do me a favor? Please.
Add your e-mail address to your profile, even if you have to set up a hotmail or yahoo account. Then if I just want to shoot a smart answer back to your comment I can just hit "reply" to my e-mail notification.
Go ahead, do it for Donna!
Add your e-mail address to your profile, even if you have to set up a hotmail or yahoo account. Then if I just want to shoot a smart answer back to your comment I can just hit "reply" to my e-mail notification.
Go ahead, do it for Donna!
Storms and Stuff
I am sitting in my office grateful that I arrived before the thunderstorm did. It is relaxing to listen to it rain and hear the thunder rumble when I am secure inside my office listening to Dave Matthews and seeing what everyone has to say this morning.
Last night I went with my daughter to finish registering at Wal-Mart for her baby shower. Is there anything more exhausting than going to Wal-Mart after work in three inch heels (maybe going to Wal-Mart with triplets!!). I ended up taking my shoes off as we wandered around the baby stuff. Sure I got some strange looks, but I just smiled and went on. We selected some “preemie” stuff since we are pretty sure our babies will arrive at around 32 to 34 weeks.
This must have been on my mind as I went to bed. I dreamed that I had the babies last night….that’s right they were taking them out of MY body!! The boy weighed 10 ½ lbs and the girls weighed 8 lbs each. What a nightmare! I would love for the babies to get big enough that their first few days are not a struggle for them physically. But two things;
Last night I went with my daughter to finish registering at Wal-Mart for her baby shower. Is there anything more exhausting than going to Wal-Mart after work in three inch heels (maybe going to Wal-Mart with triplets!!). I ended up taking my shoes off as we wandered around the baby stuff. Sure I got some strange looks, but I just smiled and went on. We selected some “preemie” stuff since we are pretty sure our babies will arrive at around 32 to 34 weeks.
This must have been on my mind as I went to bed. I dreamed that I had the babies last night….that’s right they were taking them out of MY body!! The boy weighed 10 ½ lbs and the girls weighed 8 lbs each. What a nightmare! I would love for the babies to get big enough that their first few days are not a struggle for them physically. But two things;
- I don’t want to be the carrier (thank you very much)
- Diana cannot carry 26 lbs of baby!!
So, it was just a crazy dream. I am sure as the time gets closer I may have more of them.
.
Last night there was an amazing ring around the moon It gives me peace to look up at the sky and know that God is in control. If I am enjoying a 70° degree January day, or a beautiful moonlit night, or a rainy Friday morning, God controls it and he cares for me. What an amazing thing to think about.
Thursday, January 12, 2006
Simple Things
Last night we talked some about using our ordinary life to show God to the world. I was trying to challenge us to find the ways that we could do that in what we already do. We all have gifts and strengths that are unique to us. Sometimes we take our gift for granted, because it is so second nature to us. We have trouble comprehending that others may struggle with the same things. I think perhaps that is one key to discovering what you are gifted at doing. Try to remember the times people have said, I wish I could do “that” speaking of something that you do with ease. If you know it is something you are comfortable doing it is not a big stretch to turn that into something you do for God’s glory.
I am sometimes super-aware of what it going on around me. I notice people drop things or struggle to carry things when I am in a fast food place or grocery store. I have tried to use that awareness to jump in and help. I want to be the first one there to help pick up the ladies walking stick, or to carry someone’s tray to their table when they are struggling with children, bags, or again the walking stick. I could do a lot better, but this is one small way I can make small changes.
What are some simple things you can do to show God to someone?
I am sometimes super-aware of what it going on around me. I notice people drop things or struggle to carry things when I am in a fast food place or grocery store. I have tried to use that awareness to jump in and help. I want to be the first one there to help pick up the ladies walking stick, or to carry someone’s tray to their table when they are struggling with children, bags, or again the walking stick. I could do a lot better, but this is one small way I can make small changes.
What are some simple things you can do to show God to someone?
Wednesday, January 11, 2006
A Box of Books!
I love getting packages in the mail. Even if it is stuff I have ordered and paid for. My favorite thing is getting books and yesterday I got SIX!! The great news is I took advantage of some discounts and got them all for under $50!
So what did I buy? I am going to tell you, don’t worry. But I want you to realize that three of these six books were bought because they were recommended by fellow bloggers. You didn’t know you had so much power did you? Be careful talking about books, I will probably read it!
Getting Things Done
David Allen- Recommended by Wade Hodges
Mere Discipleship
Lee Camp- Most recently recommended by Amy, earlier by Jetty Betty
There Are No Shortcuts
Rafe Esquith- Recommended by Joe Cook.
The Cure for the Common Life
Max Lucado- you just have to buy a new Lucado book from time to time.
Mary, Mary
James Patterson – the latest in the Alex Cross series
Iron Orchid
Stuart Woods- the latest in the Holly Barker series.
The last two are just fun fiction and I am not recommending that you read them. But I like a good easy read from time to time.
I was going to do my reading list from last year, but just can’t seem to get it done. So in the spirit of looking forward I am going to end each month with a post of what I have read during that month.
So, what are you reading?
So what did I buy? I am going to tell you, don’t worry. But I want you to realize that three of these six books were bought because they were recommended by fellow bloggers. You didn’t know you had so much power did you? Be careful talking about books, I will probably read it!
Getting Things Done
David Allen- Recommended by Wade Hodges
Mere Discipleship
Lee Camp- Most recently recommended by Amy, earlier by Jetty Betty
There Are No Shortcuts
Rafe Esquith- Recommended by Joe Cook.
The Cure for the Common Life
Max Lucado- you just have to buy a new Lucado book from time to time.
Mary, Mary
James Patterson – the latest in the Alex Cross series
Iron Orchid
Stuart Woods- the latest in the Holly Barker series.
The last two are just fun fiction and I am not recommending that you read them. But I like a good easy read from time to time.
I was going to do my reading list from last year, but just can’t seem to get it done. So in the spirit of looking forward I am going to end each month with a post of what I have read during that month.
So, what are you reading?
Tuesday, January 10, 2006
Nothing More Than Feelings
I find it very hard to describe how I feel when I am going through a change. Not that how I “feel” is so important, but my belief in and attitudes toward things can be important, at least to me.
For quite some time I have felt oddly disconnected. I don’t know the actual progression that brought me to this point but it has been a mounting feeling. I know I am late to the game in reading McLaren’s “A New Kind of Christian”, but it is speaking about much of what I am feeling. I find myself unable to put the book down, and then I find myself dwelling on what I have read when I do put it down. I know that many of you will never read the book, and many more of you have already read his subsequent books. Just suffice it to say that I have not been happy with the way that the church has presented Christ to the world. I never really understood what my big hang up was with inviting people “to church”, but I think I get it now. I want to invite people to know Jesus and I am afraid that sometimes we can’t get out of our own way long enough to let an outsider see Jesus in our assemblies. And then too, I think that I have been looking for Jesus in all the wrong places.
It struck me the other day how much of the book of John focuses on Jesus’ criticism and condemnation of the Pharisees. The contrast of course being the people that followed him, the people he healed, the people who realized that they NEEDED Jesus. I wonder sometimes if to the outside world we look like the Pharisees. WE will be glad to help you if only you will come to our building, fill out our form and meet with our committee. Then we will let you know.
I am not being negative (I know it sounds to you like I am) but rather looking for a better way to show people the Jesus that I am getting to know better myself. I don’t want to present myself as someone who has it all together, because I do not! But, I do want to demonstrate the peace and joy that fills my life knowing that my savior loves me and will intercede for me when I blow it, again. I also want to lead a life so full of his love that I cannot help but to love those around me.
For quite some time I have felt oddly disconnected. I don’t know the actual progression that brought me to this point but it has been a mounting feeling. I know I am late to the game in reading McLaren’s “A New Kind of Christian”, but it is speaking about much of what I am feeling. I find myself unable to put the book down, and then I find myself dwelling on what I have read when I do put it down. I know that many of you will never read the book, and many more of you have already read his subsequent books. Just suffice it to say that I have not been happy with the way that the church has presented Christ to the world. I never really understood what my big hang up was with inviting people “to church”, but I think I get it now. I want to invite people to know Jesus and I am afraid that sometimes we can’t get out of our own way long enough to let an outsider see Jesus in our assemblies. And then too, I think that I have been looking for Jesus in all the wrong places.
It struck me the other day how much of the book of John focuses on Jesus’ criticism and condemnation of the Pharisees. The contrast of course being the people that followed him, the people he healed, the people who realized that they NEEDED Jesus. I wonder sometimes if to the outside world we look like the Pharisees. WE will be glad to help you if only you will come to our building, fill out our form and meet with our committee. Then we will let you know.
I am not being negative (I know it sounds to you like I am) but rather looking for a better way to show people the Jesus that I am getting to know better myself. I don’t want to present myself as someone who has it all together, because I do not! But, I do want to demonstrate the peace and joy that fills my life knowing that my savior loves me and will intercede for me when I blow it, again. I also want to lead a life so full of his love that I cannot help but to love those around me.
Monday, January 09, 2006
Baby update
Do you know at 22 weeks the average fetus weighs 1lb?
We had our 22 week Dr. visit today and they measured the babies to determine weight.
Baby A- 15 oz.
Baby B- 1lb 1 oz
Baby C- 1lb
I think it is incredible that there are three of them and they are all right on the size that they should be.
Baby B, the boy, will not let us see his face, but he makes sure every week that we know he is a boy!! Man, they start early!
Sunday, January 08, 2006
Got Any Oil?
Last night we traveled 35 minutes to eat at the nearest Outback. Well you would have thought it was Mother's Day by the size of the crowd. We we gave our names we were told the wait would be from 50 to 60 minutes. Arghhh! I was starving, but my heart was set on a steak, so we waited. As we stood there watching people get impatient and rude I was thinking about the fact that we always hope "we" will be the exception to the rule. We expect that we will be seated in only 20 minutes, 30 tops and then we grow impatient. (We waited exactly 60 minutes)
Yesterday I read about the 10 wise and 10 foolish virgins and the wedding feast. I couldn't help but think about these ladies who waited so long that they fell asleep. But then when the groom came half of them found themselves unprepared. They went on and bought some oil, just knowing that there would be an exception made, the door would be reopened for them. But the door keeper said he didn't even know who they were.
What does this say to you? How does it fit in to your views of grace?
I think Jesus is telling us to be ready, always. I think he is saying that we must make this decision anew everyday! He will be our everything, that is the only position he wants.
Yesterday I read about the 10 wise and 10 foolish virgins and the wedding feast. I couldn't help but think about these ladies who waited so long that they fell asleep. But then when the groom came half of them found themselves unprepared. They went on and bought some oil, just knowing that there would be an exception made, the door would be reopened for them. But the door keeper said he didn't even know who they were.
What does this say to you? How does it fit in to your views of grace?
I think Jesus is telling us to be ready, always. I think he is saying that we must make this decision anew everyday! He will be our everything, that is the only position he wants.
Saturday, January 07, 2006
Directing My Paths
As part of my “get organized” resolution I am trying to tackle one small project every night that I am at home. This has been a good thing for me, in that I am getting stuff done, slowly but surely, and it gives me less time to sit around thinking about how much I want a Diet Coke. (I don’t believe you knew the depth of my addiction.)
Last night I tackled my bathroom closet. It is very hard to throw away full bottles of lotion, shampoo, sunscreen and other things, but I did it. I filled two large garbage bags with things to throw away. I found a purse that was hidden from me for days earlier in the fall. I also found a picture that used to hang in my bathroom.
The picture is about 16x20 in size and on it is a nice picture of a trail and the verse;
“In all thy ways acknowledge him and he shall direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3:6.
Yes it is in the original {some would say inspired} language of King James, but I have always loved the picture and the verse. I was thinking I would like to bring it to my office. The color scheme matches and I have a perfect place to hang it where it could speak to me everyday.
The thing is, I have always made a point to keep religion out of the work place, but as part of my resolution to quit being religious and start being spiritual I think this would fit. I live in the middle of the Bible belt and don’t think my customers would find such a picture offensive (if they even noticed it at all). What do you think? Should I just do it?
Last night I tackled my bathroom closet. It is very hard to throw away full bottles of lotion, shampoo, sunscreen and other things, but I did it. I filled two large garbage bags with things to throw away. I found a purse that was hidden from me for days earlier in the fall. I also found a picture that used to hang in my bathroom.
The picture is about 16x20 in size and on it is a nice picture of a trail and the verse;
“In all thy ways acknowledge him and he shall direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3:6.
Yes it is in the original {some would say inspired} language of King James, but I have always loved the picture and the verse. I was thinking I would like to bring it to my office. The color scheme matches and I have a perfect place to hang it where it could speak to me everyday.
The thing is, I have always made a point to keep religion out of the work place, but as part of my resolution to quit being religious and start being spiritual I think this would fit. I live in the middle of the Bible belt and don’t think my customers would find such a picture offensive (if they even noticed it at all). What do you think? Should I just do it?
Friday, January 06, 2006
Better, thank you
My day got much better. The loan will close on Tuesday! Yipee!
I appreciate all of you and your kind remarks.
My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus blood and righteousness
I don't know why that song popped in my head, but that phrase is what I hope describes me.
I appreciate all of you and your kind remarks.
My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus blood and righteousness
I don't know why that song popped in my head, but that phrase is what I hope describes me.
But it is Friday!!!
There are days when despite your best efforts to have joy, you feel like you have been kicked in the gut. You wake up in a good mood albeit still somewhat sleepy. You do the things you are supposed to do, you have a great workout, you eat a good breakfast, you remember to bring your clothes; and then comes the phone call. If you work with the public at all you will know what I am talking about. An irate customer calls convinced that you have lied to her and it is your life’s ambition to ruin her life; couple being called a liar with being threatened with a law suit and you have my morning. Granted she has a legitimate complaint. Hers is one of those cases where everything that could go wrong, HAS. It has been a rough rocky road and we thought we were ready to close, but alas, there was a computer problem at the underwriters office and there would be no closing today.
I had resolved to not let this ruin my day. After about 30 minutes she called me back, much calmer and let me explain the situation to her. The funny thing about being punched in the gut, saying you are sorry doesn’t take the pain away. But I am pressing on.
I leave you with this thought:
Coincidence doesn’t happen nearly as often as we think. God’s angels influence people toward good places and good situations. Satan’s angels use their influence with just the opposite effect.
Do you think that applies to our work lives?
I had resolved to not let this ruin my day. After about 30 minutes she called me back, much calmer and let me explain the situation to her. The funny thing about being punched in the gut, saying you are sorry doesn’t take the pain away. But I am pressing on.
I leave you with this thought:
Coincidence doesn’t happen nearly as often as we think. God’s angels influence people toward good places and good situations. Satan’s angels use their influence with just the opposite effect.
Do you think that applies to our work lives?
Thursday, January 05, 2006
Timeless or Ageless?
Today I may have overcome another obstacle in my life. I have always been indirect and reluctant when it came to sharing my age. Even when I was young (teenage years) I liked it that people thought I was older than I was. I didn’t correct many people who thought I was older. Now, I enjoy the surprise people have when I tell them I am a grandmother. When they speculate about how young I must have been when I started I say “yeah, I was like 12!”
I think that has come to an end. Who really cares one way or the other how old I am or am not. I feel good, I am healthy and I still have a fairly sound mind. (more on the sound mind in a bit)
This morning we had a new instructor for our circuit training class. The first thing she wanted us to do was to have a body fat measurement taken. To use this instrument we had to tell young, good looking, Mikey our height, weight and age!! For the first time it didn’t bother me, at all! Maybe it is because our current instructor went to school with my son. Maybe I realize I am old enough to be many of these kid’s mother! So what?
Then this morning I read Fajita’s blog about mid-life crisis. I truly liked the things he had to say. I do realize that I am at an age where I should be able to do what I want to do, when I want to do it. I have grown into the life I have always had. I have a great husband, wonderful children, fantastic daughter-in-law, and son-in-law, and (there are really not enough adjectives) a precious grandson…..with three more grandbabies on the way!! It is pure joy to accept who I am, where I am, and what my life is about. This gives me so much freedom to do the things that will make me a better disciple! That is exciting, that is liberating!
But, trust me; being 47 does have a down side. This morning as I was leaving home I had my gym bag that has all of my “getting ready for work” stuff in it, another bag with my tennis clothes for tonight, a bag with some books I brought to review if I have time today, my lunch and breakfast, my water bottle, my towel, my purse……..and yet I forgot something, something kind of important; my clothes! I had left them hanging in the bedroom! Well, thankfully I did have some warm clothes packed for tennis tonight that I was able to put on. My sweet husband came through for me (again) and met me with my clothes! So, if luck favors the prepared mind, I just have to believe that it also favors those with a good back up plan…..or in my case a great husband! (who by the way is two years older than me…..not that it matters!)
I think that has come to an end. Who really cares one way or the other how old I am or am not. I feel good, I am healthy and I still have a fairly sound mind. (more on the sound mind in a bit)
This morning we had a new instructor for our circuit training class. The first thing she wanted us to do was to have a body fat measurement taken. To use this instrument we had to tell young, good looking, Mikey our height, weight and age!! For the first time it didn’t bother me, at all! Maybe it is because our current instructor went to school with my son. Maybe I realize I am old enough to be many of these kid’s mother! So what?
Then this morning I read Fajita’s blog about mid-life crisis. I truly liked the things he had to say. I do realize that I am at an age where I should be able to do what I want to do, when I want to do it. I have grown into the life I have always had. I have a great husband, wonderful children, fantastic daughter-in-law, and son-in-law, and (there are really not enough adjectives) a precious grandson…..with three more grandbabies on the way!! It is pure joy to accept who I am, where I am, and what my life is about. This gives me so much freedom to do the things that will make me a better disciple! That is exciting, that is liberating!
But, trust me; being 47 does have a down side. This morning as I was leaving home I had my gym bag that has all of my “getting ready for work” stuff in it, another bag with my tennis clothes for tonight, a bag with some books I brought to review if I have time today, my lunch and breakfast, my water bottle, my towel, my purse……..and yet I forgot something, something kind of important; my clothes! I had left them hanging in the bedroom! Well, thankfully I did have some warm clothes packed for tennis tonight that I was able to put on. My sweet husband came through for me (again) and met me with my clothes! So, if luck favors the prepared mind, I just have to believe that it also favors those with a good back up plan…..or in my case a great husband! (who by the way is two years older than me…..not that it matters!)
Wednesday, January 04, 2006
Glory Days!
It is 69 degrees here today. I know that seems cool by Texas standards but is feels like spring to me. I was able to play tennis (in my shorts) for a couple of hours this morning, and then had lunch with my grandson (and his parents).
OK now I have got to get to work, and then I have got to brush up on the class I am teaching tonight....(why am I blogging then?) {oops was that sarcasm?}
But what a great day!!
...and so far no Diet Coke (but I would kill for one!)
OK now I have got to get to work, and then I have got to brush up on the class I am teaching tonight....(why am I blogging then?) {oops was that sarcasm?}
But what a great day!!
...and so far no Diet Coke (but I would kill for one!)
Yesterday and More Goals
Yesterday I was successful in living by several of my goals. I won't bore you with the details, but I was pleased. Also Diana went back to the Dr. yesterday. All is well with her and the babies although the Dr. is still pushing her to gain more weight. She had only gained 1 pound this week. She suggested she drink 2 or 3 milkshakes per day....it is tempting, but no I would not trade places with her! Our boy baby "B" wants to make sure that we buy some blue things. He is a little too proud of his "plumbing."
Another goal for this year is to start living on a budget. I have not been diligent about money for the last couple of years, but interest rates have risen 3.25% in the last year and half. Times are going to be a lot tougher in the mortgage business. As part of that goal I am going to try and eliminate Wal-Mart from my vocabulary. I stopped at one of the smaller groceries stores yesterday to buy groceries and last week bought my shampoo and stuff at Dollar General. I figure even if I pay a little more per item elsewhere I will not be doing any “impulse buying”.
Another goal is to greatly reduce the amount of Diet Coke I consume. I currently consume the equivalent of five 20 ounce drinks per day (at least). Yesterday I had only one; today I am shooting for zero! (BTW check out my link to my 40 Days of Fat in the sidebar.)
This morning I was reading over at Steve’s Blog how he considered it a weird habit to think in analogies when he was trying to explain something. Some of you have mentioned how I make an analogy out of most anything, but that is just the way my brain works. If you are trying to explain something to me I will likely respond “so it’s like….” to make sure I understand you. I never really thought of it as weird, but I guess if most people don’t do it, it is kind of strange.
As a side note (and don’t hold me to this) I am going to try, really try to curb my sarcastic tongue.
Another goal for this year is to start living on a budget. I have not been diligent about money for the last couple of years, but interest rates have risen 3.25% in the last year and half. Times are going to be a lot tougher in the mortgage business. As part of that goal I am going to try and eliminate Wal-Mart from my vocabulary. I stopped at one of the smaller groceries stores yesterday to buy groceries and last week bought my shampoo and stuff at Dollar General. I figure even if I pay a little more per item elsewhere I will not be doing any “impulse buying”.
Another goal is to greatly reduce the amount of Diet Coke I consume. I currently consume the equivalent of five 20 ounce drinks per day (at least). Yesterday I had only one; today I am shooting for zero! (BTW check out my link to my 40 Days of Fat in the sidebar.)
This morning I was reading over at Steve’s Blog how he considered it a weird habit to think in analogies when he was trying to explain something. Some of you have mentioned how I make an analogy out of most anything, but that is just the way my brain works. If you are trying to explain something to me I will likely respond “so it’s like….” to make sure I understand you. I never really thought of it as weird, but I guess if most people don’t do it, it is kind of strange.
As a side note (and don’t hold me to this) I am going to try, really try to curb my sarcastic tongue.
Tuesday, January 03, 2006
What Lies Ahead--2006
Will I make resolutions this year? Will I set goals that are attainable? Will I work toward those goals beyond the month of January?
Good questions. I will try and give some answers.
Goals for 2006
- Quit being a church member. I want to be a Christian, a disciple, an apprentice of Jesus. I want to learn what he did and try to become more and more like him. I want to grow myself spiritually and take this grown-up self to worship with other Christians. I will still worship in the same place with the same people. I just don’t want to be defined by my local church. I just want to be a Christian. (although wouldn’t it be great if my church were defined by me….and it was a good thing!)
- Get organized. I have paid lip service to this in the past but have lacked the motivation to take it beyond that. The reason I want to be organized is to allow myself more time to enjoy the things that I want to do, while still getting the things done that I HAVE to do. This will not be the flip of a switch for me. It will require an ongoing commitment.
- Write it down. I want to start a “journal” of sorts for each of my grandchildren. I want to have that as a gift for them later in their lives. I also want to spend some time with my Mom & Dad and get there story “down”.
- Get fit! I am not going to obsess about weight or inches, but I want to be in good shape. I made major improvements in 2005 but I want to keep going just to keep this earthly house in the best shape that I can.
- Become a people person. I want to know people better. I want to be a friend, a helper, an advocate and sometimes even a confronter. I want to experience the joys and yes the sorrows of making myself more open and accessible to people.
I have specific fitness goals that I will outline in my 40 Days of Fat- Buying the Farm. If you click on the link above it will give you our main web-site, but I will try and get mine up today.
I also have several specific goals that will be part of the other major goals. I am ready to get started….well actually I have started!
Monday, January 02, 2006
Best of 2005
My weekend vacation put me a little behind on my best of post....
Most you will not care about, but maybe someday I will want to remember.
The top 5 things I learned in 2005:
(In no particular order)
Most you will not care about, but maybe someday I will want to remember.
The top 5 things I learned in 2005:
(In no particular order)
- God answeres prayers in ways greater than I can ever imagine
- People leaving hurts and leaves a hole in your life, no matter how prepared you think you are.
- Friendship is one of the great gifts of God. It grows deeper and more beautiful when you invest laughter, tears, hopes and fears. I am blessed by friendships that have grown deeper and by new friendships, some with folks I have yet to meet.
- Senseless murder and death can never be explanined or understood. Only faith in God and his great gifts pull us through these times of great heartache.
- There is nothing greater than being a grandparent. I love that sweet boy and can't wait to meet babies A, B & C!
Top 5 Books I read
- The Divine Conspiracy (finally....)
- Mere Christianity
- Blue Like Jazz
- Harry Potter and the half blood Prince
- The Presidents Assasin
Top 5 Movies (taste is very ecclectic)
- Chronicles of Narnia- The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe
- War of the Worlds
- Batman Begins
- Mr. & Mrs. Smith
- Star Wars III- Revenge of the Sith
