You can check out all of the other Wordless Wednesday participants by following this link.
***************
link of the day:
http://funschool.kaboose.com/fun-blaster/halloween/games/game_streamer_screamer.html
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
looking back
You can check out all of the other Wordless Wednesday participants by following this link. ***************
link of the day:
http://funschool.kaboose.com/fun-blaster/halloween/games/game_streamer_screamer.html
Monday, October 29, 2007
more of Him
Welcome to MORE OF HIM Monday
You can encourage others or you may be encouraged by sharing part of your spiritual journey. If you post today under one of the following themes, please leave a link to your post on the Mr. Linky below.
Share a specific piece of scripture that has spoken to your this last week. Share what you feel God is telling you through that passage and how you plan to apply it to your life.
- or -
Share how God is working in your life right now. Is He telling you something or helping you through something? Do you hear His small, quiet voice? Or is He hitting you over the head with a two by four? Are you on a spiritual high? Or low? Share as you are led.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Scripture speaks to me...
Galations 5:19-21 gives us the results of following the desires of our sinful nature. When I read this passage from The Message version, I was astounded. It goes into so much more depth in it's description and I see so much of the broken world described in these words.
It is obvious what kind of life develops out of trying to get your own way all the time: repetitive, loveless, cheap sex; a stinking accumulation of mental and emotional garbage; frenzied and joyless grabs for happiness; trinket gods; magic-show religion; paranoid loneliness; cutthroat competition; all-consuming-yet-never-satisfied wants; a brutal temper; an impotence to love or be loved; divided homes and divided lives; small-minded and lopsided pursuits; the vicious habit of depersonalizing everyone into a rival; uncontrolled and uncontrollable addictions; ugly parodies of community. I could go on.
This isn't the first time I have warned you, you know. If you use your freedom this way, you will not inherit God's kingdom.
Besides the grim picture these words paint, what made me take a second and even third read through was what Paul wrote at the end. He says, "those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God." (NIV) In The Message, it's worded, "if you use your freedom this way."
It is, indeed, a freedom and He gives it to us. He gives us freedom of choice. It really comes down to only two choices; Him or the world. You really can't pick both because they negate each other. If you live in and of the world, your life looks like what was described above, which isn't pretty. If you give your life to Him, He can help you steer your way through this very broken world and give you life everlasting. To me, it seems like a no brainer.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"More of Him" Monday Participants
You can encourage others or you may be encouraged by sharing part of your spiritual journey. If you post today under one of the following themes, please leave a link to your post on the Mr. Linky below.
Share a specific piece of scripture that has spoken to your this last week. Share what you feel God is telling you through that passage and how you plan to apply it to your life.- or -
Share how God is working in your life right now. Is He telling you something or helping you through something? Do you hear His small, quiet voice? Or is He hitting you over the head with a two by four? Are you on a spiritual high? Or low? Share as you are led.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Scripture speaks to me...
Galations 5:19-21 gives us the results of following the desires of our sinful nature. When I read this passage from The Message version, I was astounded. It goes into so much more depth in it's description and I see so much of the broken world described in these words.
It is obvious what kind of life develops out of trying to get your own way all the time: repetitive, loveless, cheap sex; a stinking accumulation of mental and emotional garbage; frenzied and joyless grabs for happiness; trinket gods; magic-show religion; paranoid loneliness; cutthroat competition; all-consuming-yet-never-satisfied wants; a brutal temper; an impotence to love or be loved; divided homes and divided lives; small-minded and lopsided pursuits; the vicious habit of depersonalizing everyone into a rival; uncontrolled and uncontrollable addictions; ugly parodies of community. I could go on.
This isn't the first time I have warned you, you know. If you use your freedom this way, you will not inherit God's kingdom.
Besides the grim picture these words paint, what made me take a second and even third read through was what Paul wrote at the end. He says, "those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God." (NIV) In The Message, it's worded, "if you use your freedom this way."
It is, indeed, a freedom and He gives it to us. He gives us freedom of choice. It really comes down to only two choices; Him or the world. You really can't pick both because they negate each other. If you live in and of the world, your life looks like what was described above, which isn't pretty. If you give your life to Him, He can help you steer your way through this very broken world and give you life everlasting. To me, it seems like a no brainer.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
| 1. Heather - Not A DIY Life 2. Mary (Ezekiel) 3. grb312@sbcglobal.net | 4. Ginger 5. Lynne 6. barb |
Learn more about "More of Him" Monday here.
Powered by... Mister Linky's Magical Widgets.
Sunday, October 28, 2007
time for a treat
Hootin' Annie gave me a treat today. How thoughtful of you Ms. Annie - I love treats. If you have never visited her blog, I encourage you to do so. She's a hoot =] She's also the Queen of Halloween. You'll see what I mean when you go to her site and read some of her recent posts. She has been handing out these little treats to random bloggers and therefor, I will do the same.
Here's what she writes:
Each day up until Halloween [October 31st] I will be handing out a treat for 1 - 5 [one to five] bloggers who drop by during the week for visiting. You're more than welcomed to pass it along to ones you think are deserving of a special treat for the season. Kinda like "Pay it Forward "Y' know, one goodwill gesture deserves another? But DON'T just choose your friends, making this cliquish and 'just groupies'...Make NEW friends by choosing random visitors!!! It seems that 'awards' are floating around blogland and just "blog friends" get chosen all the time. Make it RANDOM!!
If you do decide to share it with others then, USE THIS "TREAT" IMAGE and link it back to my blog and explain where the idea originated.
So, I am making it random. I really don't know these ladies too well besides visiting them once or twice in the last week or so. I've enjoyed their posts, will make the effort to make it back to their blogs, and encourage you to visit them also. My treat goes to:
Tammy @ Family Doin's
Kristy Jo @ The Extravagant Life of a Housewife
Jane @ Hitting the High Notes
Carrie @ The Gremlin Wrangler
Striving @ Striving to be Better
***************
link of the day:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5lv0-ftyMKE
Here's what she writes:
Each day up until Halloween [October 31st] I will be handing out a treat for 1 - 5 [one to five] bloggers who drop by during the week for visiting. You're more than welcomed to pass it along to ones you think are deserving of a special treat for the season. Kinda like "Pay it Forward "Y' know, one goodwill gesture deserves another? But DON'T just choose your friends, making this cliquish and 'just groupies'...Make NEW friends by choosing random visitors!!! It seems that 'awards' are floating around blogland and just "blog friends" get chosen all the time. Make it RANDOM!!
If you do decide to share it with others then, USE THIS "TREAT" IMAGE and link it back to my blog and explain where the idea originated.
So, I am making it random. I really don't know these ladies too well besides visiting them once or twice in the last week or so. I've enjoyed their posts, will make the effort to make it back to their blogs, and encourage you to visit them also. My treat goes to:
Tammy @ Family Doin's
Kristy Jo @ The Extravagant Life of a Housewife
Jane @ Hitting the High Notes
Carrie @ The Gremlin Wrangler
Striving @ Striving to be Better
***************
link of the day:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5lv0-ftyMKE
Saturday, October 27, 2007
imagine...
Imagine the air thick with smoke.
Imagine hearing about the fires getting closer to where you live.
Imagine being told you have to leave your home because of the chance of fires getting too close to your home.
Imagine trying to leave your neighborhood and your city, along with the rest of your neighborhood and your city.
Imagine camping out in a football stadium along with thousands of other people.
Imagine not knowing the fate of your home.
Imagine being a firefighter.
Imagine being a firefighter and trying to fight a fire that's engulfing an entire hillside.
Imagine being a firefighter and trying to save a house - someones home - an entire street of homes.
Imagine being a firefighter that has spent days on the fire lines with little food and little sleep.
Imagine living miles away from the nearest fire, but you can't breath because the air is so thick with smoke.
Imagine returning to your home only to find that it's gone - everything is gone.
Imagine how you would feel after returning to your home and finding it still standing.
Those affected by the fires in California still need our prayers. And while you're saying a prayer for them, say a prayer of thanksgiving that you have a roof over your head, a bed to sleep in, and your personal possessions safely stored away.
(all pictures were taken from the CBS News web page.)
***************
link of the day:
http://www.thoushaltlaugh.com/
Imagine hearing about the fires getting closer to where you live.
Imagine being told you have to leave your home because of the chance of fires getting too close to your home.
Imagine trying to leave your neighborhood and your city, along with the rest of your neighborhood and your city.
Imagine camping out in a football stadium along with thousands of other people.
Imagine not knowing the fate of your home.
Imagine being a firefighter.
Imagine being a firefighter and trying to fight a fire that's engulfing an entire hillside.
Imagine being a firefighter and trying to save a house - someones home - an entire street of homes.
Imagine being a firefighter that has spent days on the fire lines with little food and little sleep.
Imagine living miles away from the nearest fire, but you can't breath because the air is so thick with smoke.
Imagine returning to your home only to find that it's gone - everything is gone.
Imagine how you would feel after returning to your home and finding it still standing.
Those affected by the fires in California still need our prayers. And while you're saying a prayer for them, say a prayer of thanksgiving that you have a roof over your head, a bed to sleep in, and your personal possessions safely stored away.
(all pictures were taken from the CBS News web page.)
***************
link of the day:
http://www.thoushaltlaugh.com/
Friday, October 26, 2007
the big winner - in more ways than one
It's time again for Show & Tell. Kelli, from There Is No Place Like Home, is our lovely hostess, so make your way over to her site and check out the other participants. Better yet... find something to share and add your name to the list.I'd like to share two things with you today. One is the item pictured below and the second is my thoughts on a certain subject.
I won this lovely [fake] pumpkin at a bunko game a couple of weeks ago. I had the most wins of the group and therefor, won the top prize. As you can see, it has a Bible verse on it. I like it a lot and to be honest, it's one of very few fall decorations I put out this year.
The bunko group, the night I won this great prize, was a group of women from my [small] church. It was a women's ministry function and we all had a great time. We ate, we laughed, we rolled those dice with a vengence, and we ate some more. It was a great night. It made me reflect on the function and benefits of a women's ministry.
I used to be heavily involved in the women's ministry at my previous church, even heading it up for a while. I remember a woman once telling me that she did not see the need or importance of such a ministry. She claimed that she just didn't have the time or desire to spend with other women. I was flabbergasted. She was a woman and a mom of young kids, and she didn't see what this kind of ministry could do for her!? I just could not understand her way of thinking.
I then started working with the youth ministry in the church and I slowly stopped going to events and Bible studies the women's ministry offered. I had other priorities and realized I would rather spend time with teenagers than adult women. I could then relate to why this woman said what she did and where she was coming from. But I think we were both wrong.
Although we, as women, go through different phases in our lives and our priorities shift around, I feel that there is great benefit to being a part of a women's ministry. Having other women know you gives you the opportunity to be ministered to - and we all need this from time to time (if not all the time). But women's ministry isn't all about be ministered to. It's also about ministering to others.
Whatever phase of life you're in, you have something to offer other women. Whether it's a piece of advice from your own experience, a word of encouragement, an offer to help in some way, or even just a smile - you have something to offer. You may be in a place where you don't really feel this way. But let me tell you, if you make the effort and have the desire, God will use you in some way. I've seen it over and over again, and it's a beautiful thing.
If you're involved in a women's ministry in any way, I say YAY! and thank you. If you're not, I'd encourage you to do so. Even if it's in a small way. I think you will find that you are the one that will be truly blessed.
***************
link of the day:
http://www.gotoquiz.com/what_kind_of_reader_are_you
Thursday, October 25, 2007
blogging pre-teens
On the blog, Mile High Mamas, there was a post that asked the question whether or not a 10 year old should be allowed to have her own email account and blog. I commented with some of the following information because I just had a conversation with a friend about this very subject.
My friend gave me permission to share her experience here on my blog since she doesn't have one of her own. Her daughter is 11 and was recently allowed to have her own blog. Like the mother that posted on Mile High Mamas, my friend was unsure whether it was a good idea to let her daughter have a presence on the internet. There are so many scary stories out there and I applaud any parent who is faced with this question and takes it seriously. I don't think there are any clear cut answers and I think only parents are qualified to make decisions regarding this subject. By the way- the following experience can be applied to regular teenagers, too.
Having said that, I'd like to share my friend's experience in saying yes to her daughter's desire to have her own blog. She said yes, but with certain expectations and limitations. I won't list all of those, but one agreed upon item was that the daughter was not allowed to post until mom read it and gave her approval. She didn't want her daughter to give out any personal information.
For the most part, her daughter has done a great job. There were only a few little things that mom didn't want going out. All she had to do was to explain what particular piece of the post was the problem and why. She did it as she sat in front of the computer and next to her daughter. There was an open discussion - a conversation where both sides were heard. And once mom was able to give good reason why the certain info was better left off the post, the daughter could see and understand why her mom wanted it that way.
I just think this is a beautiful picture; mom and daughter sitting side by side, mutually conversing, mom teaching and daughter listening and learning. The mom told me that this time has actually been a wonderful way to keep the lines of communication open between the two of them. She has seen the benefit in other areas of their relationship, too. Where before, communication might have been difficult, or even, non-existent, now it's present and fairly easy going. She feels so much closer to her daughter.
And I say that's a great thing! It's very easy for a parent-child relationship to be stained and increasingly growing distant as the child enters adolescence/middle school. I would encourage any parent nearing this time, or in this time, to find ways to stay connected with your child. One of the best ways to do that is take an interest in what your child is into or wants to get into. The benefits of a close relationship and open communication will not only greatly benefit the both of you during this time, but could make all the difference in the future paths he or she will eventually take.
***************
link of the day:
http://www.littlemissmatched.com/
My friend gave me permission to share her experience here on my blog since she doesn't have one of her own. Her daughter is 11 and was recently allowed to have her own blog. Like the mother that posted on Mile High Mamas, my friend was unsure whether it was a good idea to let her daughter have a presence on the internet. There are so many scary stories out there and I applaud any parent who is faced with this question and takes it seriously. I don't think there are any clear cut answers and I think only parents are qualified to make decisions regarding this subject. By the way- the following experience can be applied to regular teenagers, too.
Having said that, I'd like to share my friend's experience in saying yes to her daughter's desire to have her own blog. She said yes, but with certain expectations and limitations. I won't list all of those, but one agreed upon item was that the daughter was not allowed to post until mom read it and gave her approval. She didn't want her daughter to give out any personal information.
For the most part, her daughter has done a great job. There were only a few little things that mom didn't want going out. All she had to do was to explain what particular piece of the post was the problem and why. She did it as she sat in front of the computer and next to her daughter. There was an open discussion - a conversation where both sides were heard. And once mom was able to give good reason why the certain info was better left off the post, the daughter could see and understand why her mom wanted it that way.
I just think this is a beautiful picture; mom and daughter sitting side by side, mutually conversing, mom teaching and daughter listening and learning. The mom told me that this time has actually been a wonderful way to keep the lines of communication open between the two of them. She has seen the benefit in other areas of their relationship, too. Where before, communication might have been difficult, or even, non-existent, now it's present and fairly easy going. She feels so much closer to her daughter.
And I say that's a great thing! It's very easy for a parent-child relationship to be stained and increasingly growing distant as the child enters adolescence/middle school. I would encourage any parent nearing this time, or in this time, to find ways to stay connected with your child. One of the best ways to do that is take an interest in what your child is into or wants to get into. The benefits of a close relationship and open communication will not only greatly benefit the both of you during this time, but could make all the difference in the future paths he or she will eventually take.
***************
link of the day:
http://www.littlemissmatched.com/
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
the difference one day makes
Here's another Wordless Wednesday.
Saturday...
Sunday...
***************
link of the day:
http://www.recipeinsider.com/find/Secret-recipes.html
Saturday...
Sunday...***************
link of the day:
http://www.recipeinsider.com/find/Secret-recipes.html
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
2 meme for 2sday
I've seen this meme on a few blogs now. Since I don't have anything else to write about today, this is what you're getting. I'm not going to tag anyone but feel free to include this meme on your blog (especially on a day when you have nothing to write about).two names you go by: mom and dear
two things you are wearing right now: socks and reading glasses
two things you would want (or have) in a relationship: a partner and someone who makes me laugh
two things you like to do: go to the movies and go to craft shows
two things you want very badly at this moment: for the Rockies to win the World Series and the fires in California to be contained (sister in law and family has been evacuated and brother in law is a firefighter/paramedic)
two things you did last night: had dinner over at friend's home and watched the Broncos win!
two things you ate today: chips and dip and part of a caramel apple
two people you spoke last to: Don and Jake
two things you're doing tomorrow: go to my prayer group and take a couple of teenagers to lunch
two longest car rides: the ones I remember, because I took some long ones when I was a kid and don't really remember them: Don and I once took a driving and sight-seeing vacation from southern California to Oregon and a trip from Colorado to Dallas I made with some youth workers. It was long because it was boring.
two favorite holidays: Christmas and 4th of July
two favorite beverages: diet coke and a good smoothie
two jobs I have had in my life: cashier and marketing assistant
two movies I would watch over and over: Moulin Rouge and Sound of Music
two places I have lived: Tampa, Florida and Bangor, Maine
two of my favorite foods: a good steak and a good cheeseburger
two places I'd rather be right now: in Hawaii and in the mountains
***************
link of the day:
http://www.benjerry.com/halloween/
Monday, October 22, 2007
more of Him
Welcome to MORE OF HIM Monday
You can encourage others or you may be encouraged by sharing part of your spiritual journey. If you post today under one of the following themes, please leave a link to your post on the Mr. Linky below.
Share a specific piece of scripture that has spoken to your this last week. Share what you feel God is telling you through that passage and how you plan to apply it to your life.
- or -
Share how God is working in your life right now. Is He telling you something or helping you through something? Do you hear His small, quiet voice? Or is He hitting you over the head with a two by four? Are you on a spiritual high? Or low? Share as you are led.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
HIM in my life
As I wrote last week, I've been going through a little "dry" spell when it comes to feeling God in my life. Thank you to all who left encouraging comments. I've been working harder at spending quality time with Him and trying to hear His quiet voice amidst all the noise that fills my life.
One of my favorite songs is Never Alone by Barlow Girl. Not only do I like the melody and beat of the song, but I love the lyrics. Here they are:
I waited for you today - But You didn't show - No.No.No.
I needed You today - So where did you go?
You told me to call - you said You'd be there
And though I haven't seen You - Are You still there?
Chorus
I cried out with no reply and
I can't feel You by my side
So I'll hold tight to what I know
You're here and I'm never alone.
And though I can not see You - and I can't explain why.
Such a deep, reassurance - You've placed in my life oh
We cannot separate' - Cause You're part of me
and though You're invisible - I'll trust the unseen
Chorus
We cannot separate
You're part of me
and though You're invisible
I'll trust the unseen
Chorus
You can also watch the music video here.
One day last week I was waiting in my car and the song came on over the radio. I turned it up and started singing away. I have sang this song countless times (just ask my family). I know every word and every note. But for some reason, this time was different. I had a real feeling of God speaking to me.
When I came to the part that said, "we cannot separate - you're part of me - and though You're invisible - I'll trust the unseen," I cried. It was really the words, "we cannot separate - you're part of me" that got to me. It brought me a new sense of comfort to know that no matter how I'm feeling, no matter how far away I feel from Christ, there cannot be any true separation. He's a part of me. And I truly believe that.
I've always believed that. Maybe I temporarily forgot that or maybe I really hadn't thought about it for awhile. God must have known I needed to hear it. He uses scripture to speak to us, He uses pastors, teachers, and friends. I shouldn't be surprised that He will use a song to tell me something He wants me to know.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"More of Him" Monday Participants
You can encourage others or you may be encouraged by sharing part of your spiritual journey. If you post today under one of the following themes, please leave a link to your post on the Mr. Linky below.
Share a specific piece of scripture that has spoken to your this last week. Share what you feel God is telling you through that passage and how you plan to apply it to your life.- or -
Share how God is working in your life right now. Is He telling you something or helping you through something? Do you hear His small, quiet voice? Or is He hitting you over the head with a two by four? Are you on a spiritual high? Or low? Share as you are led.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
HIM in my life
As I wrote last week, I've been going through a little "dry" spell when it comes to feeling God in my life. Thank you to all who left encouraging comments. I've been working harder at spending quality time with Him and trying to hear His quiet voice amidst all the noise that fills my life.
One of my favorite songs is Never Alone by Barlow Girl. Not only do I like the melody and beat of the song, but I love the lyrics. Here they are:
I waited for you today - But You didn't show - No.No.No.
I needed You today - So where did you go?
You told me to call - you said You'd be there
And though I haven't seen You - Are You still there?
Chorus
I cried out with no reply and
I can't feel You by my side
So I'll hold tight to what I know
You're here and I'm never alone.
And though I can not see You - and I can't explain why.
Such a deep, reassurance - You've placed in my life oh
We cannot separate' - Cause You're part of me
and though You're invisible - I'll trust the unseen
Chorus
We cannot separate
You're part of me
and though You're invisible
I'll trust the unseen
Chorus
You can also watch the music video here.
One day last week I was waiting in my car and the song came on over the radio. I turned it up and started singing away. I have sang this song countless times (just ask my family). I know every word and every note. But for some reason, this time was different. I had a real feeling of God speaking to me.
When I came to the part that said, "we cannot separate - you're part of me - and though You're invisible - I'll trust the unseen," I cried. It was really the words, "we cannot separate - you're part of me" that got to me. It brought me a new sense of comfort to know that no matter how I'm feeling, no matter how far away I feel from Christ, there cannot be any true separation. He's a part of me. And I truly believe that.
I've always believed that. Maybe I temporarily forgot that or maybe I really hadn't thought about it for awhile. God must have known I needed to hear it. He uses scripture to speak to us, He uses pastors, teachers, and friends. I shouldn't be surprised that He will use a song to tell me something He wants me to know.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
| 1. Susan - Penless Writer 2. Leigh Ann @ Momma Roar 3. barb moser | 4. Ginger 5. Lynne 6. SharonB |
Learn more about "More of Him" Monday here.
Powered by... Mister Linky's Magical Widgets.
Sunday, October 21, 2007
happy sunday/birthday
I just stumbled across a feature here on Blogger that I had never heard of or seen before. It's called Blogger Play. It's a continuous stream of photos that are being uploaded in real time to any public blog on Blogger. You can read here how Blogger described this feature when they first launched it. You can see Blogger Play by going to: http://play.blogger.com/. You can also click on any photo that rolls by and a new window will open with corresponding blog. I think it's pretty cool and a little addicting. Did anyone else know about this?
===================
On another note, I would like to wish a happy birthday to my brother, Steve. His birthday is actually tomorrow but Mondays are for More of Him, so, bro, you get your birthday wish a day early.
Happy Birthday, Steve. I wish you a day filled with laughter and love. If I were there, you know we would do something special to celebrate your birthday.
My brother is very special to me. He lives in California and we don't get to see each other very much. I would love to live closer. I feel the older we get, the closer we get, the more we have in common, and the more we have to talk about. I admire the way he's raised his family and how he's handled the few deep valleys in his life. He is a minister and principal of a christian school and performs each role with the utmost amount of integrity and compassion.
Steve, I miss the time that we could be spending with each other, talking and laughing. Thanks for being my little brother, for always making me laugh, for playing legos with me when we were kids, for becoming the truly awesome man you are today. I hope your birthday is as wonderful as you are. (my pic of the day is just for you =])
***************
link of the day:
my brother's site: http://www.oldredhat.com/
===================
On another note, I would like to wish a happy birthday to my brother, Steve. His birthday is actually tomorrow but Mondays are for More of Him, so, bro, you get your birthday wish a day early.
Happy Birthday, Steve. I wish you a day filled with laughter and love. If I were there, you know we would do something special to celebrate your birthday.My brother is very special to me. He lives in California and we don't get to see each other very much. I would love to live closer. I feel the older we get, the closer we get, the more we have in common, and the more we have to talk about. I admire the way he's raised his family and how he's handled the few deep valleys in his life. He is a minister and principal of a christian school and performs each role with the utmost amount of integrity and compassion.
Steve, I miss the time that we could be spending with each other, talking and laughing. Thanks for being my little brother, for always making me laugh, for playing legos with me when we were kids, for becoming the truly awesome man you are today. I hope your birthday is as wonderful as you are. (my pic of the day is just for you =])
***************
link of the day:
my brother's site: http://www.oldredhat.com/
Saturday, October 20, 2007
advice from a river
Go with the flow
Immerse yourself in nature
Slow down and meander
Go around the obstacles
Be thoughtful of those downstream
Stay current
The beauty is in the journey!
~Ilan Shamir
***************
link of the day:
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/news/news.html?in_article_id=481411&in_page_id=1770
Friday, October 19, 2007
birthday presents
I am happy to have something to share for Kelli's Show & Tell. Be sure to check out her place for all of this week's participants.Today, I'm going to show off my favorite birthday presents.
Don and I bought each other this beautiful blender. Our old one was... well, old, and it didn't blend ice very well. I'm loving this one.
I love this Brighton bracelet. One of my dear friends gave it to me. I've been wearing it every day since I received it. Thank you, Lori.
My other dear friend, Susie, gave me this beautiful jacket. It's an olive green and you can't tell, but the buttons have a little rhinestone-ish piece embedded - so it has some pizzazz.
Who doesn't love gift cards =] Here are two to two of my favorite places - JC Penney and Claim Jumper. Thanks mom and dad.
And my secret sister from church gave me these frog slippers. If you've been reading my blog, you know I love the F.R.O.G.s. Thank you... whoever you are, my lovely secret sister.***************
link of the day:
http://www.kidzui.com/
Thursday, October 18, 2007
cheering each other on
Jake had his regional cross country meet today. It's a very important race as it determines who goes on to the state meet. Only the best get to run in the state meet. Only the top 5 finishing teams from each regional race go on to run in the state meet. Jake's team (boys) finished second today and the girls finished third, so they'll both be running in Colorado Springs next week.
There were the usual coaches and parents cheering the kids on. There were also two boys, who had previously ran for the school, who left their college classes for the day to cheer the teams on. When I asked Jake about it, he told me how much it meant to him and the team to have them there and to have them run with and cheer on the runners. He felt that these two boys inspired the runners to keep running strong and to do their very best. Jake went on to tell me that it meant so much because they didn't have to be there and they had first hand knowledge of what the runners were going through. It wasn't just a coach or parent yelling, "run faster" or "you can do it." These boys knew exactly what the runners were thinking and feeling.
This made me think of how this parallels real life. When we're in the midst of something hard, like the runners running their race, we want someone, or a group, standing on the sidelines cheering us on, supporting and encouraging us. And how much more does it mean to us, or help us, if those supporters know what we're going through, or enough to know how difficult the race is. Those cheerleaders may make the difference in how we run (figuratively) and how well we finish.
On Jake's school's JV team, there is an autistic boy named Jack. Jack loves to run and the school wanted to accommodate his passion for running. But the coaches realized early on that they couldn't treat him like the other runners and let him run on his own. He needed guidance and supervision. Amazingly, a JV coach from another sport volunteered to run with Jack. That meant not just the races, but all of the practices, too.
I so much admire this coach. Not only did he do a lot of running, but he was also in charge of Jack before and after races. What a commitment to and impact on he made to this young man. And he did it with a great attitude and a smile on his face. Again, this situation made me think of our own personal hardships. Isn't our burden lighter if we have someone running right along side of us - a running companion if you will. Someone who not only gives us their company, but knows what the course looks like at the same time the runner does. That companion can help the runner decide which way to go or when to kick it into high gear. (Here is a picture of Jack and his running companion.)
All of this made me reflect on my own friends and then the friendships I have or have seen in the blogging world. It's a beautiful thing to watch women genuinely care for someone who they most likely haven't even met in person. I'm even wondering if it's easier to care for someone here in blogland. Maybe there's just enough privacy that we don't have to get entangled in all the particulars of any one's personal hardships. Maybe it's because one can only do so much that it doesn't become a hardship for anyone.
What I really think is that most women are caregivers by nature; a gift from God. The blogging world puts us in contact with a lot of different people that, in some cases, become part of our daily, or routine, life. We get to know each other and, in turn, want to encourage each other.
Thinking back to the race analogy, isn't it great to have cheerleaders standing on the sidelines, encouraging and supporting us as we run our race - whether it's short and easy jaunt around the block, or a big important race.
***************
link of the day:
http://www.cupcakesforacause.org/
There were the usual coaches and parents cheering the kids on. There were also two boys, who had previously ran for the school, who left their college classes for the day to cheer the teams on. When I asked Jake about it, he told me how much it meant to him and the team to have them there and to have them run with and cheer on the runners. He felt that these two boys inspired the runners to keep running strong and to do their very best. Jake went on to tell me that it meant so much because they didn't have to be there and they had first hand knowledge of what the runners were going through. It wasn't just a coach or parent yelling, "run faster" or "you can do it." These boys knew exactly what the runners were thinking and feeling.
This made me think of how this parallels real life. When we're in the midst of something hard, like the runners running their race, we want someone, or a group, standing on the sidelines cheering us on, supporting and encouraging us. And how much more does it mean to us, or help us, if those supporters know what we're going through, or enough to know how difficult the race is. Those cheerleaders may make the difference in how we run (figuratively) and how well we finish.
On Jake's school's JV team, there is an autistic boy named Jack. Jack loves to run and the school wanted to accommodate his passion for running. But the coaches realized early on that they couldn't treat him like the other runners and let him run on his own. He needed guidance and supervision. Amazingly, a JV coach from another sport volunteered to run with Jack. That meant not just the races, but all of the practices, too.
I so much admire this coach. Not only did he do a lot of running, but he was also in charge of Jack before and after races. What a commitment to and impact on he made to this young man. And he did it with a great attitude and a smile on his face. Again, this situation made me think of our own personal hardships. Isn't our burden lighter if we have someone running right along side of us - a running companion if you will. Someone who not only gives us their company, but knows what the course looks like at the same time the runner does. That companion can help the runner decide which way to go or when to kick it into high gear. (Here is a picture of Jack and his running companion.)
All of this made me reflect on my own friends and then the friendships I have or have seen in the blogging world. It's a beautiful thing to watch women genuinely care for someone who they most likely haven't even met in person. I'm even wondering if it's easier to care for someone here in blogland. Maybe there's just enough privacy that we don't have to get entangled in all the particulars of any one's personal hardships. Maybe it's because one can only do so much that it doesn't become a hardship for anyone.
What I really think is that most women are caregivers by nature; a gift from God. The blogging world puts us in contact with a lot of different people that, in some cases, become part of our daily, or routine, life. We get to know each other and, in turn, want to encourage each other.
Thinking back to the race analogy, isn't it great to have cheerleaders standing on the sidelines, encouraging and supporting us as we run our race - whether it's short and easy jaunt around the block, or a big important race.
***************
link of the day:
http://www.cupcakesforacause.org/
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
a trip to the mountains
Another Wordless Wednesday...
You can read the story behind these pictures in yesterday's post.
***************
link of the day:
http://www.cubpack81.com/images/carve_pumpkin.swf
You can read the story behind these pictures in yesterday's post.
***************
link of the day:
http://www.cubpack81.com/images/carve_pumpkin.swf
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
timing is everything
A few weeks ago, a blogging friend posted this quote (thanks Melody):
"Each moment is a place you've never been." ~Mark Strand
I've been thinking about those words a lot ever since I read them. I've used them as inspiration to get out and experience life and I've used them as a reminder that there's a lot of places I have yet to visit. Life is a sequence of moments, and sometimes timing is everything.
Last Saturday, my family went up into the mountains, into Rocky Mountain National Park. It was a cold, dreary day, but I love the mountains and knew I would enjoy being up there even if we had to stay in the car the whole day (and we pretty well did). Most of the colored leaves had already fallen, but there were a few trees sporting their fallish colors. You can see a couple of pictures on my photo site, The World Through My Eyes.
We also saw a lot of elk. Most of them a good distance away. We came across a large herd and I (literally) jumped out of the car to try to get some good pictures. As I snapped away, the herd started to move and I ran in the same direction in an effort to get even closer and even better photos. It was a thrill to see this huge herd run across the road into a different spot. There was one bull that bugled and snorted his communication to his harem as he made sure they all stayed together and ended up where he wanted them.
After I had taken all the pictures I could, I hopped back into the car and we traveled further down the road. We eventually turned around and went back the same way we came. As we passed by the place where the herd had passed through, there was no sign of the spectacular event we had just witnessed. Cars were driving through without a clue. I couldn't help but think how timing can mean the difference in seeing something special and not seeing anything at all. The saying, "timing is everything" never rang more true.
I'm only posting one picture today and leaving a few more for tomorrow, for Wordless Wednesday. I feel blessed to have been at the right place at the right time, and to experience a moment as a place I had never been to before.
***************
link of the day:
http://video.aol.com/video-detail/7-year-old-sings-national-anthem/40945200
"Each moment is a place you've never been." ~Mark Strand
I've been thinking about those words a lot ever since I read them. I've used them as inspiration to get out and experience life and I've used them as a reminder that there's a lot of places I have yet to visit. Life is a sequence of moments, and sometimes timing is everything.
Last Saturday, my family went up into the mountains, into Rocky Mountain National Park. It was a cold, dreary day, but I love the mountains and knew I would enjoy being up there even if we had to stay in the car the whole day (and we pretty well did). Most of the colored leaves had already fallen, but there were a few trees sporting their fallish colors. You can see a couple of pictures on my photo site, The World Through My Eyes.
We also saw a lot of elk. Most of them a good distance away. We came across a large herd and I (literally) jumped out of the car to try to get some good pictures. As I snapped away, the herd started to move and I ran in the same direction in an effort to get even closer and even better photos. It was a thrill to see this huge herd run across the road into a different spot. There was one bull that bugled and snorted his communication to his harem as he made sure they all stayed together and ended up where he wanted them.
After I had taken all the pictures I could, I hopped back into the car and we traveled further down the road. We eventually turned around and went back the same way we came. As we passed by the place where the herd had passed through, there was no sign of the spectacular event we had just witnessed. Cars were driving through without a clue. I couldn't help but think how timing can mean the difference in seeing something special and not seeing anything at all. The saying, "timing is everything" never rang more true.
I'm only posting one picture today and leaving a few more for tomorrow, for Wordless Wednesday. I feel blessed to have been at the right place at the right time, and to experience a moment as a place I had never been to before.
***************
link of the day:
http://video.aol.com/video-detail/7-year-old-sings-national-anthem/40945200
Monday, October 15, 2007
more of Him
Welcome to More of Him.
You can encourage others or you may be encouraged by sharing part of your spiritual journey. If you post today under one of the following themes, please leave a link to your post on the Mr. Linky below.
Share a specific piece of scripture that has spoken to your this last week. Share what you feel God is telling you through that passage and how you plan to apply it to your life.
or
Share how God is working in your life right now. Is He telling you something or helping you through something? Do you hear His small, quiet voice? Or is He hitting you over the head with a two by four? Are you on a spiritual high? Or low? Share as you are led.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Scripture Speaks to me
Jesus responded, "The real significance of that Scripture is not that Moses gave you bread from heaven but that my Father is right now offering you bread from heaven, the real bread. The Bread of God came down out of heaven and is giving life to the world." John 6:32-33 the Message
I have to be honest here. I haven't felt very close to God for the past few weeks. I think I'm just in a dry spot right now. I want to feel that closeness again, and I have faith that I will. But it feels lonely where I am right now. I've been wanting to write a "Him in my life" post, but don't really feel Him at the moment. And I want to feel that closeness again.
As I read the footnote about this passage in my Bible, I realized that bread is the sustenance in our lives. In the same way, Jesus needs to be the sustenance to my spiritual life. I need to remember that He is the answer to my inner hunger. He is what I need to feel fed and satisfied. I will remain at His feet, until we are walking hand in hand again. I just hope that is more sooner than later.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
You can encourage others or you may be encouraged by sharing part of your spiritual journey. If you post today under one of the following themes, please leave a link to your post on the Mr. Linky below.
Share a specific piece of scripture that has spoken to your this last week. Share what you feel God is telling you through that passage and how you plan to apply it to your life.or
Share how God is working in your life right now. Is He telling you something or helping you through something? Do you hear His small, quiet voice? Or is He hitting you over the head with a two by four? Are you on a spiritual high? Or low? Share as you are led.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Scripture Speaks to me
Jesus responded, "The real significance of that Scripture is not that Moses gave you bread from heaven but that my Father is right now offering you bread from heaven, the real bread. The Bread of God came down out of heaven and is giving life to the world." John 6:32-33 the Message
I have to be honest here. I haven't felt very close to God for the past few weeks. I think I'm just in a dry spot right now. I want to feel that closeness again, and I have faith that I will. But it feels lonely where I am right now. I've been wanting to write a "Him in my life" post, but don't really feel Him at the moment. And I want to feel that closeness again.
As I read the footnote about this passage in my Bible, I realized that bread is the sustenance in our lives. In the same way, Jesus needs to be the sustenance to my spiritual life. I need to remember that He is the answer to my inner hunger. He is what I need to feel fed and satisfied. I will remain at His feet, until we are walking hand in hand again. I just hope that is more sooner than later.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Saturday, October 13, 2007
this day in history
October 13th is the 286th day of the year and there are 79 days left.
Births:
Margaret Thatcher, 1925
Paul Simon, 1941
Sammy Hagar, 1947
Marie Osmond, 1959
Nancy Kerrigan, 1969
Deaths:
Ed Sullivan at the age of 72, 1974
Prices in 1959:
gallon of gas: $ .25
postage stamp: $ .04
bread: $ .20
milk: $1.01
average house: $30,000
Ford car: $2,132-$3,979
Events:
The cornerstone of the White House was laid in 1792.
Italy declared war on Germany in 1943.
The beatles made their first appearance on a major tv show-the BBC, 1963
October 13th, 1959 was a beautiful Fall day in southern California.
and...
little Diana Lynn was born,
much to the delight of her parents, grandparents, and future siblings.
Births:
Margaret Thatcher, 1925
Paul Simon, 1941
Sammy Hagar, 1947
Marie Osmond, 1959
Nancy Kerrigan, 1969
Deaths:
Ed Sullivan at the age of 72, 1974
Prices in 1959:
gallon of gas: $ .25
postage stamp: $ .04
bread: $ .20
milk: $1.01
average house: $30,000
Ford car: $2,132-$3,979
Events:
The cornerstone of the White House was laid in 1792.
Italy declared war on Germany in 1943.
The beatles made their first appearance on a major tv show-the BBC, 1963
October 13th, 1959 was a beautiful Fall day in southern California.
and...
little Diana Lynn was born,
much to the delight of her parents, grandparents, and future siblings.
Friday, October 12, 2007
a little night music
It's late. It's really late. And I'm tired. It's been a long day.
Jake had a cross country meet up in Bolder, which is about an hour away - when there's no traffic. Unfortunately, there was traffic going both ways. Coming home was worse because it was the rush hour.
And we felt rushed. We needed to get home fast so we could get ready for the evening's event, which was Jake's band, I Riot, playing a show. Jake showered, gulped down a quick dinner, loaded up his drums, and we were on our way.
The band played in a small saloon - okay, it was a bar. Am I a terrible mom for letting my 17 year old play in a bar? It did feel kinda weird. But they now have a promoter and she really wanted them to play this venue because there were going to be agents there since it was part of a tour. All the parents were there and thesaloon bar wasn't very crowded (it's Thursday night after all).
They were the opening band for two other groups. They put on a great show and it seemed like everyone in the place really liked them. They stayed for one song from the next band and then it was time to go home. After all, they're still just high school boys and have to go to school tomorrow.
by the way.... the Rockies won tonight! Woo-hoo!
I'm going to bed now.
***************
link of the day:
http://www.rottenneighbor.com/
Jake had a cross country meet up in Bolder, which is about an hour away - when there's no traffic. Unfortunately, there was traffic going both ways. Coming home was worse because it was the rush hour.
And we felt rushed. We needed to get home fast so we could get ready for the evening's event, which was Jake's band, I Riot, playing a show. Jake showered, gulped down a quick dinner, loaded up his drums, and we were on our way.
The band played in a small saloon - okay, it was a bar. Am I a terrible mom for letting my 17 year old play in a bar? It did feel kinda weird. But they now have a promoter and she really wanted them to play this venue because there were going to be agents there since it was part of a tour. All the parents were there and the
They were the opening band for two other groups. They put on a great show and it seemed like everyone in the place really liked them. They stayed for one song from the next band and then it was time to go home. After all, they're still just high school boys and have to go to school tomorrow.
by the way.... the Rockies won tonight! Woo-hoo!
I'm going to bed now.
***************
link of the day:
http://www.rottenneighbor.com/
Thursday, October 11, 2007
surprise!
Don and I had a nice surprise tonight. The two of us went out to dinner since we didn't have youth group and Jake has a class on Wednesday nights. We went to our favorite BBQ place. Right as our food was about to be served, Don's cell phone rang. It was our daughter, Danielle. All of a sudden Don breaks out into a huge grin and I could tell something was up.
She knew where we were because she and him had been text messaging. She called to ask us if we could order her something to eat. Yep, that's right... she showed up at the restaurant as a birthday surprise for Don and I. Yes, if you must know - my birthday is Saturday and Don's is Sunday.
Evidently, she had been planning this little trip for some time. She and Jake had been in cahoots with each other and other people/relatives knew about it. She had to take time off work and has sacrificed a few activities for the weekend by coming up and spending time with us. We had actually planned to go down to see her on Saturday but she made up some excuse to keep us from further planning. She was pretty sneaky.
She couldn't have given us a better birthday present. Even if we don't do a thing on Saturday, I feel like my birthday is complete and I couldn't have asked for anything more. Thank you, Dani.
***************
link of the day:
http://www.mywhitecloud.com/momandbaby/index.jsp
She knew where we were because she and him had been text messaging. She called to ask us if we could order her something to eat. Yep, that's right... she showed up at the restaurant as a birthday surprise for Don and I. Yes, if you must know - my birthday is Saturday and Don's is Sunday.
Evidently, she had been planning this little trip for some time. She and Jake had been in cahoots with each other and other people/relatives knew about it. She had to take time off work and has sacrificed a few activities for the weekend by coming up and spending time with us. We had actually planned to go down to see her on Saturday but she made up some excuse to keep us from further planning. She was pretty sneaky.
She couldn't have given us a better birthday present. Even if we don't do a thing on Saturday, I feel like my birthday is complete and I couldn't have asked for anything more. Thank you, Dani.
***************
link of the day:
http://www.mywhitecloud.com/momandbaby/index.jsp
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
sibling rivalry
Guess what?It's Wordless Wednesday!
Enough said.
disclaimer: No animals were harmed in the process of this photo shoot. And it's actually the cat that gets mean!
***************
link of the day:
http://www.karenika.com/50states/
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
yes, i'm a social networker
I need to join another social networking site like I need a whole in the head. But, I have signed up with one more. It's called cre8Buzz and I've been spending the last hour or so playing around with it.
I already have a myspace and a facebook, so why would I need another? I'm not sure, but I guess time will tell. I've seen cre8Buzz's logo and rating widget (now proudly displayed on my sidebar) on other blogs. Other bloggers seem excited about it. So, I decided to give it a try. If you would like to join also, let me know. You need an invite and I can send you one if you'd like to give it a try.
On another note, I found this photo on the internet. I was mesmerized by it and wanted to share it.
***************
link of the day:
http://urbanlegends.about.com/library/bl_image_quiz.htm
I already have a myspace and a facebook, so why would I need another? I'm not sure, but I guess time will tell. I've seen cre8Buzz's logo and rating widget (now proudly displayed on my sidebar) on other blogs. Other bloggers seem excited about it. So, I decided to give it a try. If you would like to join also, let me know. You need an invite and I can send you one if you'd like to give it a try.On another note, I found this photo on the internet. I was mesmerized by it and wanted to share it.
***************
link of the day:
http://urbanlegends.about.com/library/bl_image_quiz.htm
Monday, October 8, 2007
more of Him
Welcome once again to More of Him. You can encourage others or your may be encouraged by sharing part of your spiritual journey. If you post today under one of the following themes, please leave a link to your post on the Mr. Linky below.
Share a specific piece of scripture that has spoken to your this last week. Share what you feel God is telling you through that passage and how you wish to apply it to your life.
or
Share how God is working in your life right now. Is He telling you something or helping you through something? Do you hear His small, quiet voice? Or is He hitting you over the head with a two by four? Are you on a spiritual high? Or low? Share as you are led.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Scripture Speaks to me
If your first concern is to look after yourself, you'll never find yourself. But if you forget about yourself and look to me, you'll find both yourself and me. Matthew 10:39 the Message
Have you ever had a piece of scripture jump out at you yet you're not sure what it's saying to you or how you're to interpret it. This is what this passage did for me this past week.
I read it early last week and have reflected on it the rest of the week. I know I struggle with looking beyond myself at times. I'm struggling with that right now in a certain area of my life. I know I can rationalize my thinking. I say I'm doing it for Don, or my family, but in the end, it's more about me.
So, after reading this passage, I felt challenged to forget about me and focus more on God. I knew this wouldn't be easy. A few times during the week, I caught myself thinking about something and realized I was really only thinking about such a thing from a "me" perspective. It was like a little bell went off in my head and I remembered the above words from the Bible, and I then couldn't help but think of whatever it was from a "God" perspective. And in most cases, there was quite a difference.
I'm still thinking and working through the part of "finding myself and Him." Of course, I want a closer relationship with God. Does finding myself mean who I am supposed to be in Him? I believe that life is a process - a journey. So I take it to mean not only this, but also of who I am supposed to be - the finished person that God already knows me to be. Does that make any sense? That's why I'm still working through that part of the passage. So I can articulate, "finding myself."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"More of Him" Monday Participants
Share a specific piece of scripture that has spoken to your this last week. Share what you feel God is telling you through that passage and how you wish to apply it to your life.or
Share how God is working in your life right now. Is He telling you something or helping you through something? Do you hear His small, quiet voice? Or is He hitting you over the head with a two by four? Are you on a spiritual high? Or low? Share as you are led.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Scripture Speaks to me
If your first concern is to look after yourself, you'll never find yourself. But if you forget about yourself and look to me, you'll find both yourself and me. Matthew 10:39 the Message
Have you ever had a piece of scripture jump out at you yet you're not sure what it's saying to you or how you're to interpret it. This is what this passage did for me this past week.
I read it early last week and have reflected on it the rest of the week. I know I struggle with looking beyond myself at times. I'm struggling with that right now in a certain area of my life. I know I can rationalize my thinking. I say I'm doing it for Don, or my family, but in the end, it's more about me.
So, after reading this passage, I felt challenged to forget about me and focus more on God. I knew this wouldn't be easy. A few times during the week, I caught myself thinking about something and realized I was really only thinking about such a thing from a "me" perspective. It was like a little bell went off in my head and I remembered the above words from the Bible, and I then couldn't help but think of whatever it was from a "God" perspective. And in most cases, there was quite a difference.
I'm still thinking and working through the part of "finding myself and Him." Of course, I want a closer relationship with God. Does finding myself mean who I am supposed to be in Him? I believe that life is a process - a journey. So I take it to mean not only this, but also of who I am supposed to be - the finished person that God already knows me to be. Does that make any sense? That's why I'm still working through that part of the passage. So I can articulate, "finding myself."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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Learn more about "More of Him" Monday here.
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Sunday, October 7, 2007
i have a riddle for you
What's the difference between a hot dog at Coor's Field (Rockies) and a hot dog at Citizen's Bank Park (Phillies)?
(to find the answer, click and drag the area between the stars)
** You can still buy a hot dog at Coor's Field **
Sorry Leigh Ann :( and all you Phillies fans. Since we are Rockies fans around here, we are pretty happy. And if you don't keep up with the world of baseball, the Colorado Rockies just won the first round of play-offs. Woo-hoo!
====================
I also wanted to let you know that I have once again started posting photos on my other blog, The World through My Eyes. I have continued to take pictures but just haven't uploaded them to my computer. I know I need to be more disciplined in this area. I love taking pictures and I want this other site to be successful in showing how I capture life with my camera. I will also be posting a link on my sidebar.
Hope you are enjoying your Sunday.
***************
link of the day:
http://facesinplaces.blogspot.com/
(to find the answer, click and drag the area between the stars)
** You can still buy a hot dog at Coor's Field **
Sorry Leigh Ann :( and all you Phillies fans. Since we are Rockies fans around here, we are pretty happy. And if you don't keep up with the world of baseball, the Colorado Rockies just won the first round of play-offs. Woo-hoo!
====================
I also wanted to let you know that I have once again started posting photos on my other blog, The World through My Eyes. I have continued to take pictures but just haven't uploaded them to my computer. I know I need to be more disciplined in this area. I love taking pictures and I want this other site to be successful in showing how I capture life with my camera. I will also be posting a link on my sidebar.
Hope you are enjoying your Sunday.
***************
link of the day:
http://facesinplaces.blogspot.com/
Saturday, October 6, 2007
thank you power
I saw Deborah Norville on Good Morning America the other day touting her new book, Thank You Power: Making the Science of Gratitude Work for You. I encourage you to read an excerpt of the book here. She isn't writing as an inspirational speaker trying to sell you some new kind of feel-good mumbo jumbo. Read in her own words why she wrote the book.I think this sounds like a wonderful book, especially for those who haven't already figured out how important an attitude of gratitude is in one's life. We should all know that when we focus on the blessings in our life and make it a practice to be thankful, the world is a brighter place. Ms. Norville gives the following list of benefits from living in such a way:
--> You'll be more optimistic.
--> You'll exercise more.
--> You'll think more creatively.
--> You'll bounce back from adversity faster.
--> You'll be less intimidated by challenges.
--> You'll have higher immune response.
--> You'll be more alert and interested.
--> You'll be more adventurous.
--> You'll live longer.
--> You'll be more likely to help others.
--> You'll be more likable.
--> You'll be more tolerant.
--> You'll be a better boss or team leader.
--> You just might do better on a test.
That's quite a list. Who wouldn't want any of these benefits? And Ms. Norville didn't just pull these out of a hat. They were reported as findings, in the country's top psychological journals, by some of the nation's foremost researchers in a newly emerged field called positive psychology.
Positive psychology? I'm not sure what that is exactly (maybe some of that mumbo jumbo). But I do believe in the power of positive thinking, and I think that goes right along with counting your blessings and having an attitude of gratitude.
***************
link of the day:
http://www.simpsonizeme.com/
Friday, October 5, 2007
excellence in discipleship
My blogging friend, Ginger, has honored me with an award today. It's called the Mathetes Excellence in Discipleship Award.
Mathetes is the Greek word for disciple, and the role of the disciple (per the Great Commission) is to make more disciples. I now have the privilege to pass on this award and badge to five blogging friends who exemplify a Christ follower through their words and life.
Many of you know that I don't like to pass on awards because I feel that all of us are worthy of the many awards that make their rounds here in blogland. But, because of the nature of this award, I think it should be passed on as a serious statement to the importance of being a Christ disciple. Therefor, I will pass it on to five women, even though I know more than five that are worthy of this award.
In the spirit of this award, the rules are simple. Winners of this award must pick five other "Disciples" to pass it on to. As you pass it on, I just ask that you mention and provide links for (1) this post as the originator of the award (Dan King of management by God), (2) the person that awarded it to you, and then (3) name and sites of the five that you believe are fulfilling the role of a disciple of Christ..."
Here are the very kind words Ginger wrote;
Diana - Thank you for blessing me by always keeping it very real with all of your feelings and your day to day living. Your heart for the youth of this world is so evident in all you write. We are walking the same road in life right now and you encourage me more than you will ever know by your constant reminders of God's goodness and faithfulness to us.
Ladies, I want you to know that I enjoy going to your blogs each day. I like the fact that not every post is reciting scripture or expounding on theology - that you write about your life, which is a testimony in itself. It's obvious through your words and message that you love God and that encourages me and it witnesses to your readers. Thank you. I pass on this award to:
Amber, of Trust in the Lord- You are one of the sweetest and hardest working people I know here in blogland. Your life is so busy and yet you always take the time to help others. The fact that you really do trust in the Lord shines through in all you say and do. Thank you for the many e-mails, your encouraging words and your obvious love for God.
Sarah, of Shortstop- You, too, are one of the sweetest people I've met through blogging. You, too, have encouraged me through your words and spirit, whether it's in an e-mail or a post. Your words are a testimony of God's love flowing through you. I thank God for the blessing of your friendship.
Lyndy, of Oh Fiddle-dee-dee- You came immediately to mind when I was thinking about this award. Your posts have been so sincere; whether it's crying out to God or thanking Him for your many blessings. It is so clear that you give Him your all, which is a wonderful example to the rest of us. I love that you always have quite a list of things to be thankful for even as you are struggling with life.
Lori, of A Mother's Heart is a Garden of Love- Your posts reflect your life so well for all to see how important God and Christianity is to you and your family. I enjoy hearing what's going on in your home and life. You're a very busy person and yet you're leading a Bible study. It's clear how much God is a priority.
Mary, of Not Before 7- I haven't known you as long as some of the other ladies, but I thoroughly enjoy reading your posts. I like how you combine what is happening in your everyday life with how God is working in it or how He is speaking to you. It is clear that you desire to follow Him and I thank you for sharing that.
In the words of Dan King himself, "I just pray a blessing over the bloggers that receive this award, and ask that the Holy Spirit use them mightily as they share the Word of God with the world around them. May all of their efforts be fruitful, and their words carry the anointing of the Spirit of God. In Jesus' name, Amen!"
***************
link of the day:
https://www.shoeboxed.com/
Mathetes is the Greek word for disciple, and the role of the disciple (per the Great Commission) is to make more disciples. I now have the privilege to pass on this award and badge to five blogging friends who exemplify a Christ follower through their words and life.
Many of you know that I don't like to pass on awards because I feel that all of us are worthy of the many awards that make their rounds here in blogland. But, because of the nature of this award, I think it should be passed on as a serious statement to the importance of being a Christ disciple. Therefor, I will pass it on to five women, even though I know more than five that are worthy of this award.
In the spirit of this award, the rules are simple. Winners of this award must pick five other "Disciples" to pass it on to. As you pass it on, I just ask that you mention and provide links for (1) this post as the originator of the award (Dan King of management by God), (2) the person that awarded it to you, and then (3) name and sites of the five that you believe are fulfilling the role of a disciple of Christ..."
Here are the very kind words Ginger wrote;
Diana - Thank you for blessing me by always keeping it very real with all of your feelings and your day to day living. Your heart for the youth of this world is so evident in all you write. We are walking the same road in life right now and you encourage me more than you will ever know by your constant reminders of God's goodness and faithfulness to us.
Ladies, I want you to know that I enjoy going to your blogs each day. I like the fact that not every post is reciting scripture or expounding on theology - that you write about your life, which is a testimony in itself. It's obvious through your words and message that you love God and that encourages me and it witnesses to your readers. Thank you. I pass on this award to:
Amber, of Trust in the Lord- You are one of the sweetest and hardest working people I know here in blogland. Your life is so busy and yet you always take the time to help others. The fact that you really do trust in the Lord shines through in all you say and do. Thank you for the many e-mails, your encouraging words and your obvious love for God.
Sarah, of Shortstop- You, too, are one of the sweetest people I've met through blogging. You, too, have encouraged me through your words and spirit, whether it's in an e-mail or a post. Your words are a testimony of God's love flowing through you. I thank God for the blessing of your friendship.
Lyndy, of Oh Fiddle-dee-dee- You came immediately to mind when I was thinking about this award. Your posts have been so sincere; whether it's crying out to God or thanking Him for your many blessings. It is so clear that you give Him your all, which is a wonderful example to the rest of us. I love that you always have quite a list of things to be thankful for even as you are struggling with life.
Lori, of A Mother's Heart is a Garden of Love- Your posts reflect your life so well for all to see how important God and Christianity is to you and your family. I enjoy hearing what's going on in your home and life. You're a very busy person and yet you're leading a Bible study. It's clear how much God is a priority.
Mary, of Not Before 7- I haven't known you as long as some of the other ladies, but I thoroughly enjoy reading your posts. I like how you combine what is happening in your everyday life with how God is working in it or how He is speaking to you. It is clear that you desire to follow Him and I thank you for sharing that.
In the words of Dan King himself, "I just pray a blessing over the bloggers that receive this award, and ask that the Holy Spirit use them mightily as they share the Word of God with the world around them. May all of their efforts be fruitful, and their words carry the anointing of the Spirit of God. In Jesus' name, Amen!"
***************
link of the day:
https://www.shoeboxed.com/
Thursday, October 4, 2007
i don't drink eggnog
I've seen this meme going around and I said to myself, "self, I think I will do this fun meme when I don't have anything to write about." Well, today is the day. I racked my brain and it must be empty because I couldn't come up with a single thing. Actually, there is one thing I wanted to say.
Leigh Ann, this is for you. You and any other Phillies fans out there....
Woo-hoo! Rockies won the first game! (and now I'm doing the happy dance)
okay, on to the meme...
accent: I don't think I have one. Is there an accent associated with Colorado, or California?
I don't drink: Eggnog. yuck and double yuck! I don't drink beer or wine either.
favorite drinks: Coffee drinks; such as, cappuccinos, mochas, and lattes. Smoothies. Diet Coke.
chore I hate: Cleaning bathrooms
pets: dog- Brody and cat- Snickers
essential electronics: Laptop, camera(s), and cell phone.
perfume: I don't know if I should be embarrassed or not to admit that I don't wear perfume. I do wear scented mist sprays from B*th & B*dy W*rks. My current favorite is a something like Mango on Ice. (Am I the only one who doesn't wear a perfume?)
gold or silver: I wear both. I like jewelry that has both gold and silver together.
insomnia: Yes, sometimes. I've always been a light sleeper. If something wakes me up, I may have a hard time going back to sleep.
job title: Wife, mother, and youth worker... just to name few.
most admired trait: This one stumps me. Are we really supposed to name a trait that we admire in ourselves? I guess it would be compassion/empathy.
kids: Danielle- 19 and Jake- 17. And a lot of teens who have passed through my youth groups.
phobia: Heights
religion: I am a believer and follower of Jesus Christ. It's not about religion, it's about a personal relationship with my Lord and Savior.
siblings: I have a sister, Karen, who is two years younger than me and a brother, Steve, who is a year and a half younger than her. I also have a half-brother, Mike, who is in his twenties.
time I wake up: Usually around 7:00, except for Saturdays. I get to sleep in on most Saturdays. I love Saturdays. I love to sleep. =]
unusual talent or skill: hmmm... I guess I have talent and skill, but nothing unusual.
vegetable I hate: Beets and Lima beans. yuck!
worst habit: Procrastinating would have to be at the top of the list.
x-rays: I just had my teeth x-rayed. I've also had my ankle, both feet, and chest x-rayed.
my favorite meal: I have several, but I'll just name one: a good steak, baked potato, green salad, and garlic bread, with chocolate covered strawberries for dessert. Yum!
***************
link of the day:
http://pinkforoctober.org/
Leigh Ann, this is for you. You and any other Phillies fans out there....
Woo-hoo! Rockies won the first game! (and now I'm doing the happy dance)
okay, on to the meme...
accent: I don't think I have one. Is there an accent associated with Colorado, or California?
I don't drink: Eggnog. yuck and double yuck! I don't drink beer or wine either.
favorite drinks: Coffee drinks; such as, cappuccinos, mochas, and lattes. Smoothies. Diet Coke.
chore I hate: Cleaning bathrooms
pets: dog- Brody and cat- Snickers
essential electronics: Laptop, camera(s), and cell phone.
perfume: I don't know if I should be embarrassed or not to admit that I don't wear perfume. I do wear scented mist sprays from B*th & B*dy W*rks. My current favorite is a something like Mango on Ice. (Am I the only one who doesn't wear a perfume?)
gold or silver: I wear both. I like jewelry that has both gold and silver together.
insomnia: Yes, sometimes. I've always been a light sleeper. If something wakes me up, I may have a hard time going back to sleep.
job title: Wife, mother, and youth worker... just to name few.
most admired trait: This one stumps me. Are we really supposed to name a trait that we admire in ourselves? I guess it would be compassion/empathy.
kids: Danielle- 19 and Jake- 17. And a lot of teens who have passed through my youth groups.
phobia: Heights
religion: I am a believer and follower of Jesus Christ. It's not about religion, it's about a personal relationship with my Lord and Savior.
siblings: I have a sister, Karen, who is two years younger than me and a brother, Steve, who is a year and a half younger than her. I also have a half-brother, Mike, who is in his twenties.
time I wake up: Usually around 7:00, except for Saturdays. I get to sleep in on most Saturdays. I love Saturdays. I love to sleep. =]
unusual talent or skill: hmmm... I guess I have talent and skill, but nothing unusual.
vegetable I hate: Beets and Lima beans. yuck!
worst habit: Procrastinating would have to be at the top of the list.
x-rays: I just had my teeth x-rayed. I've also had my ankle, both feet, and chest x-rayed.
my favorite meal: I have several, but I'll just name one: a good steak, baked potato, green salad, and garlic bread, with chocolate covered strawberries for dessert. Yum!
***************
link of the day:
http://pinkforoctober.org/
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
johnny
This video was sent to me in an email, so I don't know how many of you might have already seen it. I think these kinds of emails circle the country, if not the globe.
I get so many emails with funny little cartoons or a meaningful video or cute photos of babies or kittys or puppys. Where do all these emails originate from? What I don't like is when they ask you to pass it on to100 25 okay, 5 friends. I just don't do that. If I did, I would be spending all my time doing it. And it's a little presumptuous; what if I don't have 5 friends? But I guess they need to ask people to do the passing on thing. How else would they be able to circle the globe?
I don't know if the people who forward these emails to me know that I don't do the passing on thing. They probably think that I pass on each and every cutesy little (or long, because some are!) email they have ever sent to me. Sorry, that's just not me.
Okay, here's the video. Let me preface it by saying it really touched me and inspired me. I think it will for you, too, or I wouldn't have posted it. That's my way of saying.... WATCH IT! (please)
Oh, and thank you, mom, for sending me the email with this video. I appreciate all the emails you send me. Sorry I don't pass any of them on.
One more thing... even though I found this video on youtube, the one in the email was put out by the same site that is my link of the day. It's tag line is "the gift of inspiration." Might be worth checking out.
***************
link of the day:
http://www.simpletruths.com/
I get so many emails with funny little cartoons or a meaningful video or cute photos of babies or kittys or puppys. Where do all these emails originate from? What I don't like is when they ask you to pass it on to
I don't know if the people who forward these emails to me know that I don't do the passing on thing. They probably think that I pass on each and every cutesy little (or long, because some are!) email they have ever sent to me. Sorry, that's just not me.
Okay, here's the video. Let me preface it by saying it really touched me and inspired me. I think it will for you, too, or I wouldn't have posted it. That's my way of saying.... WATCH IT! (please)
Oh, and thank you, mom, for sending me the email with this video. I appreciate all the emails you send me. Sorry I don't pass any of them on.
One more thing... even though I found this video on youtube, the one in the email was put out by the same site that is my link of the day. It's tag line is "the gift of inspiration." Might be worth checking out.
***************
link of the day:
http://www.simpletruths.com/
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
tiny talk
First, let me say thank you to all who participated in or left supporting comments on the More of Him Monday. If you haven't checked out those who left their link, please do so. There's some pretty powerful stuff there.
I also have to say woo-hoo for the Rockies. We beat the Padres last night and we're going to the Wild Card play-offs!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Okay, I'm so excited. Mary, of Not Before 7, hosts Tiny Talk Tuesday and I have never participated because I don't have any tiny talk in my house any more. It's all teenager talk and, frankly, it's not very interesting.
But today I do have some tiny talk to share. This was a conversation between me and a 2nd or 3rd grade boy from my church on Sunday after the service. In case you didn't know it, Don and I are the youth directors at this church. We often have the younger kids come into our room just wanting to hang out (you know, be like the big kids) or looking for candy. A lot of them know that we have candy as we use it for games and such.
So this little boy comes in asking me if I have any candy. I tell him no, that we ran out. He goes through my box and finds a baggie full of dimes (for a game we play) and asks if he can use the money to buy candy out of the candy machine that is present in the room. I didn't say yes or no right away. Instead we stood there at the machine and talked about our favorite kind of candy. He was so endearing that I agreed to buy a bag of candy if he would share it with the other younger kids that were hanging around. He agreed.
After leaving the room to pass out the candy he came back in to tell me how sad one kid was because he didn't get any candy. "Could we buy more," he asks. I tell him I don't have enough money left to buy another bag. He was deep in thought for about a second and then came up with this:
boy: I know... I can sneak into Mr. Cameron's room (children's ministry) and steal some money from the basket he has that's full of money.
me: Whoa! Let's think about this...
at which point I'm interrupted with...
boy: I do it all the time at home.
me: Let's talk about this. First, sneaking isn't really a good thing but do you know what's really not good? stealing! That's money that the other children have given to God. You could ask Mr. Cameron if he has a dime you could borrow, but let's not steal.
He thinks for another second.
boy: Okay. I'm going to go tell him I need my money back, that I shouldn't have given him as much as I did.
With that, he ran off - before I could say anything else. Maybe this is one of those times you needed to be there for it to be humorous. The kid was so sincere and didn't think anything of sneaking somewhere, stealing, or lying. I guess I need to go have a talk with Mr. Cameron.
oh.... and I have another tiny talk.
This one is from my niece who just turned 6. I called her for her birthday but she had just been put down to bed. Her mom, my sister, took the phone into her so I could wish her a happy birthday. As she goes into my niece's bedroom, she tells her aunt Diana is on the phone. Before taking the phone, she stretches out her hand and whispers to her mom, "I have a booger in my hand." Of course, my sister cracks up which made my niece crack up and I got a good chuckle out of it.
Maybe these aren't as funny as the tiny talk I usually read through Mary's links, but I always get a little jealous that I don't have the tiny kids to record the tiny talk. This was my chance. So thanks for letting me take it =]
***************
link of the day:
http://roxik.com/pictaps/
I also have to say woo-hoo for the Rockies. We beat the Padres last night and we're going to the Wild Card play-offs!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Okay, I'm so excited. Mary, of Not Before 7, hosts Tiny Talk Tuesday and I have never participated because I don't have any tiny talk in my house any more. It's all teenager talk and, frankly, it's not very interesting.
But today I do have some tiny talk to share. This was a conversation between me and a 2nd or 3rd grade boy from my church on Sunday after the service. In case you didn't know it, Don and I are the youth directors at this church. We often have the younger kids come into our room just wanting to hang out (you know, be like the big kids) or looking for candy. A lot of them know that we have candy as we use it for games and such.
So this little boy comes in asking me if I have any candy. I tell him no, that we ran out. He goes through my box and finds a baggie full of dimes (for a game we play) and asks if he can use the money to buy candy out of the candy machine that is present in the room. I didn't say yes or no right away. Instead we stood there at the machine and talked about our favorite kind of candy. He was so endearing that I agreed to buy a bag of candy if he would share it with the other younger kids that were hanging around. He agreed.
After leaving the room to pass out the candy he came back in to tell me how sad one kid was because he didn't get any candy. "Could we buy more," he asks. I tell him I don't have enough money left to buy another bag. He was deep in thought for about a second and then came up with this:
boy: I know... I can sneak into Mr. Cameron's room (children's ministry) and steal some money from the basket he has that's full of money.
me: Whoa! Let's think about this...
at which point I'm interrupted with...
boy: I do it all the time at home.
me: Let's talk about this. First, sneaking isn't really a good thing but do you know what's really not good? stealing! That's money that the other children have given to God. You could ask Mr. Cameron if he has a dime you could borrow, but let's not steal.
He thinks for another second.
boy: Okay. I'm going to go tell him I need my money back, that I shouldn't have given him as much as I did.
With that, he ran off - before I could say anything else. Maybe this is one of those times you needed to be there for it to be humorous. The kid was so sincere and didn't think anything of sneaking somewhere, stealing, or lying. I guess I need to go have a talk with Mr. Cameron.
oh.... and I have another tiny talk.
This one is from my niece who just turned 6. I called her for her birthday but she had just been put down to bed. Her mom, my sister, took the phone into her so I could wish her a happy birthday. As she goes into my niece's bedroom, she tells her aunt Diana is on the phone. Before taking the phone, she stretches out her hand and whispers to her mom, "I have a booger in my hand." Of course, my sister cracks up which made my niece crack up and I got a good chuckle out of it.
Maybe these aren't as funny as the tiny talk I usually read through Mary's links, but I always get a little jealous that I don't have the tiny kids to record the tiny talk. This was my chance. So thanks for letting me take it =]
***************
link of the day:
http://roxik.com/pictaps/
Monday, October 1, 2007
it's monday
Welcome to "More of Him" Monday
I'm hoping this will be the first of many posts that are shared so that we can not only give God the glory for what He is doing in our lives, but that we can be of encouragement and support to each other. I'm hoping there will be uplifting posts as well as truthful ones that share what the blogger is struggling with. There are two wonderful ways for you to share.
One is sharing a piece of scripture that spoke to you in some way over the previous week. If you share in this manner, please include not only the passage, but what it was saying to you and maybe how you plan to apply it to your life.
The second is how specifically He is working in your life. Maybe it's a prayer request you have, or an answer to prayer. It could be something new you feel He is wanting for you. Or an area where you need to work on or need to be held accountable for.
One more thing; I pray there will be no judgement here. No one is perfect and we are all broken in some way. Let us use the blogging world, or atleast this part of it, for encouragement and support. I beleive that whatever you want to share about your spiritual life, others would enjoy reading and it could minister to them personally.
Please leave your post on the Mr. Linky below and let me personally thank you for participating.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Here is my SCRIPTURE SPEAKS:
Every part of Scripture is God-breathed and useful one way or another—showing us truth, exposing our rebellion, correcting our mistakes, training us to live God's way. Through the Word we are put together and shaped up for the tasks God has for us. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 The Message
I've always liked this passage and I looked it up in The Message version to see how it was stated there. I really like how verse 17 is stated. In other versions, it says something like "equipped for every good work," which I like, too. But there's something to the wording "shaped up" that appeals to me. I've always thought of myself as a lump of clay in the potter's hands. My life in Him has been about Him molding me - or shaping me. And part of that shaping comes directly from His word.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"More of Him" Monday Participants
I'm hoping this will be the first of many posts that are shared so that we can not only give God the glory for what He is doing in our lives, but that we can be of encouragement and support to each other. I'm hoping there will be uplifting posts as well as truthful ones that share what the blogger is struggling with. There are two wonderful ways for you to share.
One is sharing a piece of scripture that spoke to you in some way over the previous week. If you share in this manner, please include not only the passage, but what it was saying to you and maybe how you plan to apply it to your life.
The second is how specifically He is working in your life. Maybe it's a prayer request you have, or an answer to prayer. It could be something new you feel He is wanting for you. Or an area where you need to work on or need to be held accountable for.One more thing; I pray there will be no judgement here. No one is perfect and we are all broken in some way. Let us use the blogging world, or atleast this part of it, for encouragement and support. I beleive that whatever you want to share about your spiritual life, others would enjoy reading and it could minister to them personally.
Please leave your post on the Mr. Linky below and let me personally thank you for participating.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Here is my SCRIPTURE SPEAKS:
Every part of Scripture is God-breathed and useful one way or another—showing us truth, exposing our rebellion, correcting our mistakes, training us to live God's way. Through the Word we are put together and shaped up for the tasks God has for us. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 The Message
I've always liked this passage and I looked it up in The Message version to see how it was stated there. I really like how verse 17 is stated. In other versions, it says something like "equipped for every good work," which I like, too. But there's something to the wording "shaped up" that appeals to me. I've always thought of myself as a lump of clay in the potter's hands. My life in Him has been about Him molding me - or shaping me. And part of that shaping comes directly from His word.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
| 1. Susan - Penless Writer 2. Kiddos & K9s (Kim) 3. barb moser | 4. Lynne 5. Danielle! 6. Folded Wings |
Learn more about "More of Him" Monday here.
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