Having been awaked by the bird commune early this Saturday morning, I opted to get a head start on the day and leisurely organize some places that periodically need attention. I made several startling finds during my rummaging. For some reason, an abundance of writing utensils managed to make it upstairs when I usually need them downstairs. I also discovered a cd I was on the hunt for to add to the mp3 player. I ended up deciding that the white socks would now have their own drawer so as not to crush the colored ones when I go rooting around in the wee hours of the work week. Several bottles of lotions with a teeny amount in the bottom I continue to try to get out met their demise in the designated garbage bag. Approximately 6 business cards scattered about, which was great because I just gave out my last one a week ago. And perhaps the most delightful find was my list of Goals for 2008. Now, some of these goals are quite personal so I won't be sharing them with you in detail but as I read down the items I realized that I had already accomplished many of them. "Wow!" I thought to myself. "I can't believe I've been doing all these." For example, here are a few I've done (and I'm sure many of you were with me when I did more than a few).
1. Vacation in AZ (check...completed February. Hope to return in November.)
2. Go to TobyMac Concert (Double check!...quite the event in March.)
3. Visit the art museum in Indy (check...completed January in celebration for my bday.)
4. Build shelves downstairs (postponed due to the arrive of Jonelly's furniture).
5. Take more photos (double check...courtesy of the camera from Christmas.)
6. Do more 1:1 and small groups with people (check...definitely continued to catch up with people I enjoy or want to get to know so I can enjoy.)
7. Teach Lance to drive (in process...to be completed by July 1st. He recently conquested highway travel. yeah!)
8. Say "no" more often (check...definitely turned down things to slow down more.)
9. Garden (double check...recently planted flowers, trimmed plants, and edging of yard is in process.)
10. Take self to doctor as needed (check...as much as I don't like to do it, i have been going.)
11. Read for leisure (check...two books completed and a couple more in process.)
12. Hiking (double check...ongoing fun times.)
13. Laugh more (double check...not that I didn't do this last year....but you can always improve.)
14. ......and the rest are personal/spiritual goals that are all in process but not completed as yet.
So I know many of you have goals for the Great 08 too. I hope you are also doing well on yours. If yours match any of mine, we can get together and work on them together :) Keep on Keeping On!
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Farewell Kiddos!
Well...it's sad (but somewhat relieving) thought that WNKoF has come to a close. Some of my memorable kiddo moments can be reread in previous blog postings. On our final night, the kiddos surely did not dissapoint with a lack of quoteables. We had a picnic indoors and the kiddos brought their favorite stuffed animals to talk about. As we went around the circle, some kiddos thought it humorous to make up silly names on the spot such as "jello" since were were eating some later. Another little tot went up to talk about his bear that he brought. He promptly described it's features and noted it was a bear. When asked about the bear's names, he looked at it cooly before quipping, "Uhhh...Bear," with a "like duh" lint to his voice. Another moment was when the teacher said to hold their animal tight and declare, "I love you." One loveable kiddos said, "Mine says 'I love you too'." I'm really looking forward to a few weeks off and catching up with them again for VBS. If you're wondering where to serve, may I recommend VBS smalls where all the fascinating, little people can be found.
=) Happy growing in Christ kiddos!
=) Happy growing in Christ kiddos!
Running with the Turkeys
Hiking at Turkey Run on Memorial day was a great experience. We enjoyed only slight sprinkles and most tourists weren't on the longer trails. Managing to hike over 4 hours, it was a worthy excursion. Can't wait to go again!!
Saw some critters at the nature center.
Large tree uprooted
Skipping rocks on the river. Boehm was definitely the best.
Birds had made their nests up on the sides of the bridge
Covered bridge...remember no running allowed on the bridge!
Beautiful deep blue male indigo bunting in the forest
Canoers on the river
floral in the forest
The day hikers, not to be confused with thru-hikers, as Jeremiah reminded us. He actually made sure we all had hiking names. He, of course, was Shepherd. Lance was Sweet Action courtesy of his attire that day. Jen was LJ taken from her Lafayette Jeff pull-over. I was A&W, referencing my initials. Boehm was Shutter as he can be found toting his trusty camera. Eric was Sage Meerkat formerly appointed from his time at Ridgecrest, NC.
So at one point, we were all in the icebox and we heard a low moaning sound. Eric called us back to look into a crevice where he indicated a fox was. Telling me to see the ears, I continued to peer in but to no avail. I flashed a camera shot in there and here's what I recorded. Looks like rocks to me so I think Eric's new trail name should aptly be FoxTrot in honor of his Fox hunting.
Low lying purple flowers clustered all across parts of the forest
Lance found a tulip bloom on the ground
Lance also discovered a toad. When we were over at the bridge, another toad was discovered. I told someone to take a look and two of the park rangers informed us it was a poisonious barrel toad. I replied that I thought most poisonious frogs and toads had bright colors. They were disappointed I did not fall for their prank and said I'd be surprised how few people know that little bit of info. Apparently my award from 8th grade deeming me the class "Nature Nut" still applies.
Saw some critters at the nature center.
Large tree uprooted
Skipping rocks on the river. Boehm was definitely the best.
Birds had made their nests up on the sides of the bridge
Covered bridge...remember no running allowed on the bridge!
Beautiful deep blue male indigo bunting in the forest
Canoers on the river
floral in the forest
The day hikers, not to be confused with thru-hikers, as Jeremiah reminded us. He actually made sure we all had hiking names. He, of course, was Shepherd. Lance was Sweet Action courtesy of his attire that day. Jen was LJ taken from her Lafayette Jeff pull-over. I was A&W, referencing my initials. Boehm was Shutter as he can be found toting his trusty camera. Eric was Sage Meerkat formerly appointed from his time at Ridgecrest, NC.
So at one point, we were all in the icebox and we heard a low moaning sound. Eric called us back to look into a crevice where he indicated a fox was. Telling me to see the ears, I continued to peer in but to no avail. I flashed a camera shot in there and here's what I recorded. Looks like rocks to me so I think Eric's new trail name should aptly be FoxTrot in honor of his Fox hunting.
Low lying purple flowers clustered all across parts of the forest
Lance found a tulip bloom on the ground
Lance also discovered a toad. When we were over at the bridge, another toad was discovered. I told someone to take a look and two of the park rangers informed us it was a poisonious barrel toad. I replied that I thought most poisonious frogs and toads had bright colors. They were disappointed I did not fall for their prank and said I'd be surprised how few people know that little bit of info. Apparently my award from 8th grade deeming me the class "Nature Nut" still applies.
Friday, May 23, 2008
Best News of the Week...
Another Bourne is on the way! Jonelly just read it FOR REAL. Double YEAHHHH!
"We thought it was over. But NO! Universal Pictures quietly let it be known that Matt Damon and director Paul Greengrass are planning a fourth Bourne movie. Hope it's not too late to let poor Jason live happily ever after."
What a wonderful end to a long week....I'll definitely be in theaters to watch this upcoming film.
"We thought it was over. But NO! Universal Pictures quietly let it be known that Matt Damon and director Paul Greengrass are planning a fourth Bourne movie. Hope it's not too late to let poor Jason live happily ever after."
What a wonderful end to a long week....I'll definitely be in theaters to watch this upcoming film.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Two Thumbs Up...Way Up!
FYI...this is your movie moment from yours truly...While away at the B & B wedding, we took advantage of the opportunity to view the latest installment of C.S. Lewis' series at an old theatre in small town USA. Prince Caspian definitely did not disappoint! Packed with action and following the storyline closely, it was a great experience and I would recommend it to you all in a hearbeat.
On a more serious note...there is a convicting moment in the film where Susan turns to Peter, as he's working feverishly to accomplish a task, and says, "Who are you doing this for?" Wow! What a great reminder to remember that it's not what we're doing but WHO we are doing it for. If we lose the focus, our efforts are in vain.
May you all enjoy the cinematic event sometimes soon!
On a more serious note...there is a convicting moment in the film where Susan turns to Peter, as he's working feverishly to accomplish a task, and says, "Who are you doing this for?" Wow! What a great reminder to remember that it's not what we're doing but WHO we are doing it for. If we lose the focus, our efforts are in vain.
May you all enjoy the cinematic event sometimes soon!
Praise!
I know some of you have been praying for quite some time that my mom's condo would sell. Several months ago, she finally had a buyer that agreed to buy only if she could sell her home. Unfortunately, she has not been able to sell so my mom has continued to wait. Few people have gone through for showings...but then...a lady went through and said it was between my mom's condo and another newer one in the neighborhood. After listing out the benefits and more waiting, my mom finally heard back today that the lady is taking her place and paying more than the original buyer would have. Praises, praises, praises. Such good timing too since school has just finished and she will have plenty of time to get things settled. Thank you all for praying...God has been very gracious and faithful to provide!
How has He blessed you this week?
How has He blessed you this week?
Monday, May 19, 2008
Chiastic Prayer
“O Lord, God of heaven, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with those who love him and obey his commands,
let your ear be attentive and your eyes open to hear the prayer your servant is praying before you day and night for your servants, the people of Israel. I confess the sins we Israelites, including myself and my father's house, have committed against you.
We have acted very wickedly toward you. We have not obeyed the commands, decrees and laws you gave your servant Moses.
“Remember the instruction you gave your servant Moses, saying, ‘If you are unfaithful, I will scatter you among the nations,
but if you return to me and obey my commands, then even if your exiled people are at the farthest horizon, I will gather them from there and bring them to the place I have chosen as a dwelling for my Name.’
“They are your servants and your people, whom you redeemed by your great strength and your mighty hand.
O Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of this your servant and to the prayer of your servants who delight in revering your name. Give your servant success today by granting him favor in the presence of this man.”
Nehemiah 1:5-11
let your ear be attentive and your eyes open to hear the prayer your servant is praying before you day and night for your servants, the people of Israel. I confess the sins we Israelites, including myself and my father's house, have committed against you.
We have acted very wickedly toward you. We have not obeyed the commands, decrees and laws you gave your servant Moses.
“Remember the instruction you gave your servant Moses, saying, ‘If you are unfaithful, I will scatter you among the nations,
but if you return to me and obey my commands, then even if your exiled people are at the farthest horizon, I will gather them from there and bring them to the place I have chosen as a dwelling for my Name.’
“They are your servants and your people, whom you redeemed by your great strength and your mighty hand.
O Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of this your servant and to the prayer of your servants who delight in revering your name. Give your servant success today by granting him favor in the presence of this man.”
Nehemiah 1:5-11
Sunday, May 18, 2008
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Recent Random Thoughts and Funny Somethings....
As you might have gathered from the title of this blog, I couldn't find a good way to categorize this posting so it shall be an official hodge-podge of 411 to you reader. In no particular order....
1. The coworkers and I enjoyed a great day of critical thinking training. I am always delighted to walk in and see Stephanie, Texas' resident HB (HB= Homebuilders) guru, leadning the group and knowing I will learn some very helpful things to apply to my job. We had an interesting discussion about how our values sometimes clash with family's values, ways to address cognitive distortions, and what typically makes for a good critical thinker. It was really all about "Thinking about Thinking." Along with the good training, I enjoyed catching up with collegues since we typically work solo in homes we don't get 1:1 time very often to just catch up. Perhaps the quote of the day was my fellow coworker while we were comparing and discussing workplace dress codes. She said, "You could be naked and fit in great there." Hilarious! She was referencing a social service location in Lafayette. NOTE: Apparently you need to be aware of what's lerking in Lafayette and be thankful that people come to your workplace dressed.
2. So the power was out at the Rockin Refuge for several hours on Sunday. I am always reminded that as much as I think I'm not technologically reliant, I clearly must be since I walked around the house for 20 minutes debating what I could possibly do with the rest of my evening. Jonell and I opted for a game but then I took a phone call and she fell asleep. Left to my own devices, I ended up photo logging my closet favs with a flashlight. (It's surprisingly dark in there). Hence, the long blog as we watched Survivors be informed they weren't surviving anymore.
3. Wasn't P.V'S sermon good on Sunday? I've actually be thinking alot about his sermon from several weeks ago on God's ability to exhibit compatiblism lately. Anybody else been thinking about that? It really blows your mind...but that's what great about the Lord. He's mind-blowing!
4. Apparently, Jonell caught the neighbor kids setting up a brigade with the stones I put at the end of my drive to compensate for the neighbors running over my sprinkler head and creating ruts off the edges. How am I going to stop that one? Any ideas?
5. Funny story from my supervisor today...she was at home going to get the mail and saw a snake making his way at her yard. Given that she's extremely fearful of snakes, she promptly hopped in her van and proceded to run over the snake over and over and over again. She later informed me she's leaving him to bake in the sun. I believe there's some well-done snake meat for the taking in Capilano for any of you outbackers with a strong palette.
6. Have any of you noticed how the people you are around really help you notice things about yourself to work on? I was sitting in a group today with 4 other women I'd never met before and was reminded how challenging it is to work in our field, do a good job, and retain a softer side at times. What I mean is, here are several other Christian ladies that have worked 8+ years in social work and it's so easy to lose that God-given femininity while dealing with some really tough people and problems.
I wondered, "Do they take this in-charge attitude home to their families each night? Do I? How am I really presenting myself in the workplace? Am I allowing workplace expectations and situations to shape me over following God's design and character development?" Hmmmmm....food for thought....
1. The coworkers and I enjoyed a great day of critical thinking training. I am always delighted to walk in and see Stephanie, Texas' resident HB (HB= Homebuilders) guru, leadning the group and knowing I will learn some very helpful things to apply to my job. We had an interesting discussion about how our values sometimes clash with family's values, ways to address cognitive distortions, and what typically makes for a good critical thinker. It was really all about "Thinking about Thinking." Along with the good training, I enjoyed catching up with collegues since we typically work solo in homes we don't get 1:1 time very often to just catch up. Perhaps the quote of the day was my fellow coworker while we were comparing and discussing workplace dress codes. She said, "You could be naked and fit in great there." Hilarious! She was referencing a social service location in Lafayette. NOTE: Apparently you need to be aware of what's lerking in Lafayette and be thankful that people come to your workplace dressed.
2. So the power was out at the Rockin Refuge for several hours on Sunday. I am always reminded that as much as I think I'm not technologically reliant, I clearly must be since I walked around the house for 20 minutes debating what I could possibly do with the rest of my evening. Jonell and I opted for a game but then I took a phone call and she fell asleep. Left to my own devices, I ended up photo logging my closet favs with a flashlight. (It's surprisingly dark in there). Hence, the long blog as we watched Survivors be informed they weren't surviving anymore.
3. Wasn't P.V'S sermon good on Sunday? I've actually be thinking alot about his sermon from several weeks ago on God's ability to exhibit compatiblism lately. Anybody else been thinking about that? It really blows your mind...but that's what great about the Lord. He's mind-blowing!
4. Apparently, Jonell caught the neighbor kids setting up a brigade with the stones I put at the end of my drive to compensate for the neighbors running over my sprinkler head and creating ruts off the edges. How am I going to stop that one? Any ideas?
5. Funny story from my supervisor today...she was at home going to get the mail and saw a snake making his way at her yard. Given that she's extremely fearful of snakes, she promptly hopped in her van and proceded to run over the snake over and over and over again. She later informed me she's leaving him to bake in the sun. I believe there's some well-done snake meat for the taking in Capilano for any of you outbackers with a strong palette.
6. Have any of you noticed how the people you are around really help you notice things about yourself to work on? I was sitting in a group today with 4 other women I'd never met before and was reminded how challenging it is to work in our field, do a good job, and retain a softer side at times. What I mean is, here are several other Christian ladies that have worked 8+ years in social work and it's so easy to lose that God-given femininity while dealing with some really tough people and problems.
I wondered, "Do they take this in-charge attitude home to their families each night? Do I? How am I really presenting myself in the workplace? Am I allowing workplace expectations and situations to shape me over following God's design and character development?" Hmmmmm....food for thought....
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Parting is such sweet sorrow...
During my busy weekend of church landscaping and paperwork, I needed a welcome break so I decided to clean out my closet and swap out winter and summer clothes. It's one of my favorite things about spring. Okay, well it is a little bittersweet as I say good-bye to my softest of sweaters and pack them under the bed for several months. But, the great moment is pulling out the tote and remembering my summer t-shirts. Yeah!
I managed to be ruthless in my deliberation of items to go out the door permanently (the benefit is the added space and extra hangers) but it is so very hard to part with some that have a significant memory to them. I seriously wonder if I will actually wear them until rags. (Some might already be there by other's standards.)Does anyone else have this problem? It somewhat confuses me that I struggle with this because I am generally annoyed at having to dress myself. (My mother assures me this dates back to infancy so perhaps I truly have been a rebellious sinner since birth.)
Anyways, maybe I've been in a particularly nostalgic mood lately or something but I thought I'd share some of my closet favs and the reasons why with you dear reader :) Please respond if you relate to my parting dilemmas or also suffer from closet bonding issues.
This is the oldest shirt I still sometimes wear. It was given to me by my first youth group right after I moved to a new town and went on a mission trip with 12+ other people I'd only met the week before. It was a running joke that I was "Abby-No-Gail" since my given name is only Abby. Plus they all got their names air-brushed on the back. What a great momento....
So this shirt was given to me back in the day when I was helping out with the youth at church. I believe I got it the weekend of a lock-in. Wow! Lock-ins are way harder once you are over age 20.
This "lovely" or should I say ragged and splattered T was from a play I was in during high school. We actually performed at Autumn on the Boulevard so we needed some type of outfit to look cohesive. Ironically, we were doing a play about a play; hence, the Romeo and Juliet stage crew motif.
These are my ladybug socks. My very special ladybug socks because they have not just any ladybugs but flying ladybugs. I do believe a good pair of ladybug socks to me is like a good cup of coffee to all you caffeine partakers and can make a bad day enjoyable by merely looking at your happy toes.
This holy rag is my memory shirt that I got from Goodwill to commemorate my senior skip day to Chicago with gal pals in high school. I still can't believe my mom let me do this but it was one of the best days senior year. We went to Planet Hollywood, shopping on Michigan Avenue and listened to music the whole way up and back.
I remember when the roommate first saw this shirt. She was like "What are you doing with a shirt that has a centrifuge?" I explained that I am not a Chemistry grad student like herself who actually knows what a centrifuge device is but rather a lucky chaperone to have attended Centrifuge camp one summer with a bunch of students from church.
Oh yes, the shirt I happily wore today. This is my high road hoodie that I earned after spending 18 days in the wilderness of the U.P. with 9 other girls and only terrain maps from the 1940's. One of the best times of my whole life...
Wow! I can't believe this sweatshirt has held up for so long. I probably created 90% of my undergraduate art projects in this shirt. It's been through many a firing, muddin, and painting session as evidenced by the tattered edges.
This jacket was the last thing my grandfather gave me before he died. We only rooted for one football team in my family...the Cowboys and this jacket says it all.
And, of course, my seminary hoodie! Oh yeah! Good friends, good profs, good learning, and the degree that lead me to Lafayette.
But perhaps the most obvious to all that know me well...."The Boys" attire from back in the day. DC Talk style. What you may not know is that I never bought this shirt at the concert but found it not even 2 weeks later at Goodwill. What a great concert tour. I couldn't convince anyone to take me to the Free At Last concert so Jesus Freak was extra special :)
And now this long blog is officially over and someone is getting voted off on Survivor (and the world goes on). Hope you had a good laugh at my clothing partings....
I managed to be ruthless in my deliberation of items to go out the door permanently (the benefit is the added space and extra hangers) but it is so very hard to part with some that have a significant memory to them. I seriously wonder if I will actually wear them until rags. (Some might already be there by other's standards.)Does anyone else have this problem? It somewhat confuses me that I struggle with this because I am generally annoyed at having to dress myself. (My mother assures me this dates back to infancy so perhaps I truly have been a rebellious sinner since birth.)
Anyways, maybe I've been in a particularly nostalgic mood lately or something but I thought I'd share some of my closet favs and the reasons why with you dear reader :) Please respond if you relate to my parting dilemmas or also suffer from closet bonding issues.
This is the oldest shirt I still sometimes wear. It was given to me by my first youth group right after I moved to a new town and went on a mission trip with 12+ other people I'd only met the week before. It was a running joke that I was "Abby-No-Gail" since my given name is only Abby. Plus they all got their names air-brushed on the back. What a great momento....
So this shirt was given to me back in the day when I was helping out with the youth at church. I believe I got it the weekend of a lock-in. Wow! Lock-ins are way harder once you are over age 20.
This "lovely" or should I say ragged and splattered T was from a play I was in during high school. We actually performed at Autumn on the Boulevard so we needed some type of outfit to look cohesive. Ironically, we were doing a play about a play; hence, the Romeo and Juliet stage crew motif.
These are my ladybug socks. My very special ladybug socks because they have not just any ladybugs but flying ladybugs. I do believe a good pair of ladybug socks to me is like a good cup of coffee to all you caffeine partakers and can make a bad day enjoyable by merely looking at your happy toes.
This holy rag is my memory shirt that I got from Goodwill to commemorate my senior skip day to Chicago with gal pals in high school. I still can't believe my mom let me do this but it was one of the best days senior year. We went to Planet Hollywood, shopping on Michigan Avenue and listened to music the whole way up and back.
I remember when the roommate first saw this shirt. She was like "What are you doing with a shirt that has a centrifuge?" I explained that I am not a Chemistry grad student like herself who actually knows what a centrifuge device is but rather a lucky chaperone to have attended Centrifuge camp one summer with a bunch of students from church.
Oh yes, the shirt I happily wore today. This is my high road hoodie that I earned after spending 18 days in the wilderness of the U.P. with 9 other girls and only terrain maps from the 1940's. One of the best times of my whole life...
Wow! I can't believe this sweatshirt has held up for so long. I probably created 90% of my undergraduate art projects in this shirt. It's been through many a firing, muddin, and painting session as evidenced by the tattered edges.
This jacket was the last thing my grandfather gave me before he died. We only rooted for one football team in my family...the Cowboys and this jacket says it all.
And, of course, my seminary hoodie! Oh yeah! Good friends, good profs, good learning, and the degree that lead me to Lafayette.
But perhaps the most obvious to all that know me well...."The Boys" attire from back in the day. DC Talk style. What you may not know is that I never bought this shirt at the concert but found it not even 2 weeks later at Goodwill. What a great concert tour. I couldn't convince anyone to take me to the Free At Last concert so Jesus Freak was extra special :)
And now this long blog is officially over and someone is getting voted off on Survivor (and the world goes on). Hope you had a good laugh at my clothing partings....
Thursday, May 8, 2008
True Reflections
So you know how some parts of the Bible you read and think to yourself, "Self, where do I really see this being lived out? Who out there actually gets this?"
Well, in honor of my AZ parents upcoming anniversary, I'd like to say a big "THANK YOU" to them both for being a true reflection of a Biblically, loving couple. Somewhere between being patient and kind, between rejoicing in the truth and never failing, between hoping and not being self-seeking, many, many, many marriages fall awfully short of the Scripture's model. I know many of you reading this can relate to the joy it is to be around godly people really striving to seek to please the Lord in all that they do especially through their marriages and families. And to all of you who allow us single folk to hang around and observe your wonderful role modeling, THANK YOU. IT'S REALLY A BLESSING!
Some of my fondest AZ memories are of watching Jim and Sue praying with and for each other, seeing them enjoy meals together, and listening to them share how they are thankful for the other person regularly.
Hard to believe that Jim and Sue are getting ready to celebrate 20 years of marriage. What a wonderful testimony to see them continuing to grow and appreciate each other. What a wonderful testimony to know that God was gracious enough to sit Jim in a church pew next to Sue. What a wonderful testimony to hear of a man willing to marry a woman with a past and assure her that it's no longer who she is in Christ. What a wonderful testimony to see God bless a widower with a loving wife. What a wonderful testimony that they are so willing to parent and love on others as if we were their own kids.
If the Lord be willing, may you celebrate another 20 years of marriage.
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!
Since I can't sit by you and laugh over a musical Hallmark card together, I'm providing a link to a song in celebration of your beautiful love.
(FYI...I know this will take some of you out of your musical comfort zone, but that's not always a bad thing right? Trust me...you might like it.)
Just click the link below and the song Love will come up automatically.
http://www.djmaj.com/boogiroot.html
Well, in honor of my AZ parents upcoming anniversary, I'd like to say a big "THANK YOU" to them both for being a true reflection of a Biblically, loving couple. Somewhere between being patient and kind, between rejoicing in the truth and never failing, between hoping and not being self-seeking, many, many, many marriages fall awfully short of the Scripture's model. I know many of you reading this can relate to the joy it is to be around godly people really striving to seek to please the Lord in all that they do especially through their marriages and families. And to all of you who allow us single folk to hang around and observe your wonderful role modeling, THANK YOU. IT'S REALLY A BLESSING!
Some of my fondest AZ memories are of watching Jim and Sue praying with and for each other, seeing them enjoy meals together, and listening to them share how they are thankful for the other person regularly.
Hard to believe that Jim and Sue are getting ready to celebrate 20 years of marriage. What a wonderful testimony to see them continuing to grow and appreciate each other. What a wonderful testimony to know that God was gracious enough to sit Jim in a church pew next to Sue. What a wonderful testimony to hear of a man willing to marry a woman with a past and assure her that it's no longer who she is in Christ. What a wonderful testimony to see God bless a widower with a loving wife. What a wonderful testimony that they are so willing to parent and love on others as if we were their own kids.
If the Lord be willing, may you celebrate another 20 years of marriage.
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!
Since I can't sit by you and laugh over a musical Hallmark card together, I'm providing a link to a song in celebration of your beautiful love.
(FYI...I know this will take some of you out of your musical comfort zone, but that's not always a bad thing right? Trust me...you might like it.)
Just click the link below and the song Love will come up automatically.
http://www.djmaj.com/boogiroot.html
Monday, May 5, 2008
And the reunion saga continues...
Remember my previous blog about the reunion coming up because I am officially beyond old and qualify as a 10 year post high school individual? Well, the invites officially came out this week complete with a list of people starred by an asterisk noting they could not be found. As I glanced at the names, I realized that most of these individuals couldn't be found even when we were still in high school. Why should we be shocked to learn they are still off the map?
Anyways, back to the real point. I thought, "Self, why don't you look up all the old emails for your friends and try sending out to them? Perhaps some of them have the same email addresses." Low and behold...they actually went through! How funny is it that out of 5 emails only 1 kicked back. Weird! 6 of us kept the same email. Maybe we really were more alike than I remembered.
So that latest update is at least 2 other friends will go and I cannot wait to catch up with them. We've begun an email chain. Don't worry friends...I'll keep you in the loop. I'm sure more enjoyment will be forthcoming as nostalgia sets in.
To all the WHS high school graduates...Remember when.....
Allison was taking karate and I used to joke with her about her "zone of terror."
Charlotte said she was going to be a music biz major.
Timmer used to tell stories about Roy burning his hair off his legs in Ol' Whitey.
Sarah and I sat next to each other on the first day of Freshman year in Roy's Bio I class and later learned our grandparents lived just up the street from each other.
Melissa would tell my little brother Lance to "Run Forrest Run" and he'd take off like a maniac racing around the yard.
Tornadoes went through during spring finals and we had to sit in the hallways.
We took finals in sweltering heat because the building was built for air conditioning with tiny window and they never put in the air.
We could talk about anything and everything at lunch time (it was my favorite time).
Senora would talk about Julio :)
Mr. Belmer would "preach" geometry.
Everyone was fighting the day after a dance (one of several reasons I passed on that experience)
Ben tried to ask everyone of us out and we all said "No".
The school was remodeled.
We took Mr. Gutwein's stuff outside, turned the chairs backwards, and Lisa took his credit card. :O
The giant pig head from Lord of the Flies.
The plays!!!! Seven Brides for Dracula and the flying bat. What about the dingo?
Physics was Phun.
We rewrote Shakespearean stuff into that funny play. Wow, was that hilarious.
Journalism was chill out time and no one wanted the camera.
Allison could be found each day with her kiwi and plastic knife.
Charlotte got that terrible sunburn after falling asleep outside.
Melissa could put her tuner to rotate every 30 seconds and she could sing with every radio song.
Mrs. Patterson did a cartwheel down the hallway to prove Mr. Shouse wrong.
Mr. Stier's daughter died.
We went to Europe. Wow! Too many memories there including meeting that group from Rochester, eating gyros in London, watching As You Like It at The Globe, going through the Alps, throwing snow atop Mt. Pilatis, buying Swiss chocolate, watching teh US v Germany soccer game with Germans, getting lost in the Louvre until we figured out the 1st floor is not really the 1st floor, etc, etc.....
Anybody have any other great high school memories to share?
Anyways, back to the real point. I thought, "Self, why don't you look up all the old emails for your friends and try sending out to them? Perhaps some of them have the same email addresses." Low and behold...they actually went through! How funny is it that out of 5 emails only 1 kicked back. Weird! 6 of us kept the same email. Maybe we really were more alike than I remembered.
So that latest update is at least 2 other friends will go and I cannot wait to catch up with them. We've begun an email chain. Don't worry friends...I'll keep you in the loop. I'm sure more enjoyment will be forthcoming as nostalgia sets in.
To all the WHS high school graduates...Remember when.....
Allison was taking karate and I used to joke with her about her "zone of terror."
Charlotte said she was going to be a music biz major.
Timmer used to tell stories about Roy burning his hair off his legs in Ol' Whitey.
Sarah and I sat next to each other on the first day of Freshman year in Roy's Bio I class and later learned our grandparents lived just up the street from each other.
Melissa would tell my little brother Lance to "Run Forrest Run" and he'd take off like a maniac racing around the yard.
Tornadoes went through during spring finals and we had to sit in the hallways.
We took finals in sweltering heat because the building was built for air conditioning with tiny window and they never put in the air.
We could talk about anything and everything at lunch time (it was my favorite time).
Senora would talk about Julio :)
Mr. Belmer would "preach" geometry.
Everyone was fighting the day after a dance (one of several reasons I passed on that experience)
Ben tried to ask everyone of us out and we all said "No".
The school was remodeled.
We took Mr. Gutwein's stuff outside, turned the chairs backwards, and Lisa took his credit card. :O
The giant pig head from Lord of the Flies.
The plays!!!! Seven Brides for Dracula and the flying bat. What about the dingo?
Physics was Phun.
We rewrote Shakespearean stuff into that funny play. Wow, was that hilarious.
Journalism was chill out time and no one wanted the camera.
Allison could be found each day with her kiwi and plastic knife.
Charlotte got that terrible sunburn after falling asleep outside.
Melissa could put her tuner to rotate every 30 seconds and she could sing with every radio song.
Mrs. Patterson did a cartwheel down the hallway to prove Mr. Shouse wrong.
Mr. Stier's daughter died.
We went to Europe. Wow! Too many memories there including meeting that group from Rochester, eating gyros in London, watching As You Like It at The Globe, going through the Alps, throwing snow atop Mt. Pilatis, buying Swiss chocolate, watching teh US v Germany soccer game with Germans, getting lost in the Louvre until we figured out the 1st floor is not really the 1st floor, etc, etc.....
Anybody have any other great high school memories to share?
All Things Great in 2008 Continues...
Lest you all forget this year's theme, above is the quick reminder. To carry on the theme, I will be attending the Third Day concert in Indy on 8.22.08. In case you haven't attended a Third Day concert before, let me assure you it's like one of the best rockin' worship experiences around. There aren't details on the website yet, but I thought I'd throw it out there to see who all was interested.
Rockin' Road Trippers Wanted.
Rockin' Road Trippers Wanted.
Sunday, May 4, 2008
Relentless Pursuer
I don't know how many of you have been surfing the Christian radio waves recently, but there's a new song out about how we just can't get away from God. I was reminded of that very point today. Today my lil bro joined FBC. I think about where he was a year ago...running away from life's hurts and not even speaking to me. But today, it's a new day. He lives with me, gives me a hug every night, reads his Bible, and looks for opportunities to serve. I know it not because of me or anyone else frankly. It's only by God's relentless pursuing of his heart and God's abundance of grace that lil bro is living in peace, facing life head-on, and standing before several hundred people to give testimony of God's work in his life now. And to all that...I have to say...AMEN! Aren't you so thankful that God keeps pursuing each of us...further up and deeper in? Drawing out our rough edges until He can soften them. Drawing out our sinful thoughts until we change them. Drawing out our wayward hearts until we submit them wholly. I, for one, would never get it right on my own and just wouldn't make it without the great Pursuer or that Hound of Heaven that George recently reminded us of. Thank heaven that heaven is always on my heels even when I wish He wasn't. Thank heaven that heaven has a grace-centered plan for each of us. Thank heaven that heaven cares more for the people that I love the most than I ever could imagine.
And, thank you friend for being a friend. Thank you for being a part of the body. Let us enjoy another week full of gratitude about God's pursuit and look for opportunities to point others to Him.
One final note, Love you bro. So glad to see you standing on the Rock.
And, thank you friend for being a friend. Thank you for being a part of the body. Let us enjoy another week full of gratitude about God's pursuit and look for opportunities to point others to Him.
One final note, Love you bro. So glad to see you standing on the Rock.
It's all a bloomin'
FYI...Lil bro took his SAT this Saturday which meant I was up and facing Saturday morning at 7:25 am with bright eyes and a few hours of sleep. I decided to attempt to make the most of my early morning and headed to Lowe's for all my home improvement needs. Note to reader: Not very many people shop Lowe's prior to 8 am. Enjoying the opportunity to shop leisurely by my lonesome, I found pansies on clearance. Being that clearance is one of my most favoritest words, I cleaned house on the pansies from Lowe's, got my remaining blocks to finish the edges of my driveway and located new rollers for the screen door.
Continuing my productive Saturday trend, I managed to plant half the pansies and begin my quest to conquer all things weed-like by 10 am. I'm happy to say by the end of the day, I managed to mow, completely deweed the yard (the old fashioned way via knifing them out by hand, block out the edges of the drive, and plant a plethora of flowering pansies.
Today I have a lovely yard, sore hands, and one more thing off the checklist.
PS...isn't the tree beautiful this year?
Friday, May 2, 2008
Almost forgot the best one...
Most Entertaining Moment of the Week....
Watching a DCS worker get "wet" while holding a dog during a meeting. bummer!
Watching a DCS worker get "wet" while holding a dog during a meeting. bummer!
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Entertaining moments of the week...
1. Jonell and I discussed boycotting Idol if David Cook is voted off prior to winning the whole shindig.
2. Walking into a home and seeing an unmounted deer head watching the tv with sunglasses on and a headband.
3. Crisis intervention for tearful preteen and future PETA member at the sight of an unmounted deer head in her living room.
4. Being told I obviously wasn't planning on having children anytime soon owning the vehicle that I do since it's a tight fit with 3 carseats across the backseat.
5. Having my car die in traffic while trying to get Lance to school.
6. Finding out the whole 1st floor of The Counseling Center was flooded after a wall of water broke through.
7. Hunting down an office space after displaced 1st floor colleagues sought refuge on the 3rd floor.
8. Inadvertently seeing a few minutes of the film Knocked Up....Don't ever, ever, ever see what I walked in on!!!!
9. Finding out 2 more friends are expectant baby mommas :)
10. Learning one friend has decided to refer to her baby as "chic" (pronounced cheek) until they learn if it's a chico or chica.
11. Having a friend educate you on the latest in "flirting" techniques from an online article (who knew?) including the "arm touch" move. I, of course, asked what exactly does the "arm touch" imply and asked if we needed to make an accountability contract immediately :)
12. Having same friend tell you that there was a reciprocal "arm touch" and "leaning" by said interest on a different occasion.
13. Lil bro stating he was actually thinking about picking up his room before I mentioned it. (ha,ha, ha......i'm still rolling on that one)
14. Conducting interviews....people are hilarious and say the darndest things!
15. Having your boss describe an individual as a quiet, unassertive individual and then meeting the most verbal and assertive person you've encountered in the past 6 months.
16. Asking the boss if she was pranking you by telling you the person wasn't assertive, learning she wasn't, and puzzling about what type of assertiveness training did this guy go through?
17. Being told I was just "too professional."
18. Deciding to name the stuffed Taco Bell mascot dog at the rockin' refuge "Hellsinki."
2. Walking into a home and seeing an unmounted deer head watching the tv with sunglasses on and a headband.
3. Crisis intervention for tearful preteen and future PETA member at the sight of an unmounted deer head in her living room.
4. Being told I obviously wasn't planning on having children anytime soon owning the vehicle that I do since it's a tight fit with 3 carseats across the backseat.
5. Having my car die in traffic while trying to get Lance to school.
6. Finding out the whole 1st floor of The Counseling Center was flooded after a wall of water broke through.
7. Hunting down an office space after displaced 1st floor colleagues sought refuge on the 3rd floor.
8. Inadvertently seeing a few minutes of the film Knocked Up....Don't ever, ever, ever see what I walked in on!!!!
9. Finding out 2 more friends are expectant baby mommas :)
10. Learning one friend has decided to refer to her baby as "chic" (pronounced cheek) until they learn if it's a chico or chica.
11. Having a friend educate you on the latest in "flirting" techniques from an online article (who knew?) including the "arm touch" move. I, of course, asked what exactly does the "arm touch" imply and asked if we needed to make an accountability contract immediately :)
12. Having same friend tell you that there was a reciprocal "arm touch" and "leaning" by said interest on a different occasion.
13. Lil bro stating he was actually thinking about picking up his room before I mentioned it. (ha,ha, ha......i'm still rolling on that one)
14. Conducting interviews....people are hilarious and say the darndest things!
15. Having your boss describe an individual as a quiet, unassertive individual and then meeting the most verbal and assertive person you've encountered in the past 6 months.
16. Asking the boss if she was pranking you by telling you the person wasn't assertive, learning she wasn't, and puzzling about what type of assertiveness training did this guy go through?
17. Being told I was just "too professional."
18. Deciding to name the stuffed Taco Bell mascot dog at the rockin' refuge "Hellsinki."
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