New Year's Resolutions

#1...Get moving. I have some goals (professionally, maybe writing someday, speaking more, the Mr. Right question), and nothing is going to happen unless I take more steps towards them. So...I'll be getting busy (busier...haha).
#2...Put "worth" in the right place. I get better and better all the time, but I still have a few places where I let the reactions and/or treatment of others make a statement about my worth. That doesn't need to happen anymore. I'll be taking active steps to not "rock my own boat" so much.
#3...Get my tone back. I've already started on this track, but I'll continue. Getting in shape, Baby. Yum.
#4...Hopefully not countering #3...haha!...I plan to experience more foreign cuisine. I ate Nepali food recently, and that fun fire was reignited!

Don't Mess with Beatrix Kiddo

Absolutely NOT movies for the kiddos...but I have to admit a secret...Shh!...I loved the Kill Bill movies...Ya, I wrote that small so it could maybe continue to be a secret. Hehe. I bought my very own Samurai sword after seeing these. Mine's...red. ;)

Head Massager Heaven

Have you seen this before? It's a Kikkerland Head Massager. One of my students gave one to me for Christmas, and I LOVE it! It feels so good that I could actually consider thumping my leg like a...happy doggy. HAHA! It's heavenly!!!

The Relator

One of the other aspects that I enjoy about the Strengthsfinders Assessment is the appreciation it encourages for strengths other than your own. Thankfully, God designed us to function as a "body"...a community...so no one person has the strengths necessary to run the whole show. Basically, we need each other...and need to understand the giftings in others.

What it also helps me to do is realize that all strengths have their "down-sides" depending on use. First, we don't always understand that the behavior of a person could actually be the expression of a strength. It's a good reminder to step back before judging. Second, people sometimes misuse their strengths in places where others could administer more effectively and/or they over-exert a strength in a time of desperation (making it need-driven rather than naturally expressed). And third, it also helps me understand myself and that some of my "norms" aren't always understood by those around me.

Here's one that tends to get me in "misunderstood" trouble! Surfacy-talk is actually not a favorite of mine. I quickly run out of things to talk about, and I think it makes people think I'm not interested in them. The truth is that I'm actually a Relator, and I'm usually VERY interested in the people in my life. It's just that I tend to be interested in...this...

"Relator describes your attitude toward your relationships. In simple terms, the Relator theme pulls you toward people you already know. You do not necessarily shy away from meeting new people−in fact, you may have other themes that cause you to enjoy the thrill of turning strangers into friends−but you do derive a great deal of pleasure and strength from being around your close friends. You are comfortable with intimacy. Once the initial connection has been made, you deliberately encourage a deepening of the relationship. You want to understand their feelings, their goals, their fears, and their dreams; and you want them to understand yours. You know that this kind of closeness implies a certain amount of risk−you might be taken advantage of−but you are willing to accept that risk. For you a relationship has value only if it is genuine. And the only way to know that is to entrust yourself to the other person. The more you share with each other, the more you risk together. The more you risk together, the more each of you proves your caring is genuine. These are your steps toward real friendship, and you take them willingly."

Ya, it can get a little tricky sometimes because others aren't always interested in that. Ha! Life is so complicated!! ;)

Strengthsfinders Assessment

If you haven't had your "strengths" assessed, you should really consider the Strengthsfinders test. It evaluates you for your Top 5 strengths out of a possible 34 themes. Very fascinating!! To do so, you have to purchase the book. Inside is a code to access the online test. Included in the book are further descriptions of the strengths and how a person can use them (and in cooperation with other people's strengths) to maximize individual and/or corporate potential.

Here are mine!

Belief - People strong in the Belief theme have certain core values that are unchanging. Out of these values emerges a defined purpose for their life.

Connectedness - People strong in the Connectedness theme have faith in the links between all things. They believe there are few coincidences and that almost every event has a reason.

Empathy - People strong in the Empathy theme can sense the feelings of other people by imagining themselves in others' lives or others' situations.

Relator - People who are strong in the Relator theme enjoy close relationships with others. They find deep satisfaction in working hard with friends to achieve a goal.

Strategic - People strong in the Strategic theme create alternative ways to proceed. Faced with any given scenario, they can quickly spot the relevant patterns and issues.

The other one that comes back to my Top 5 on occasion (I've taken it a few times now) is the following:

Harmony - People strong in the Harmony theme look for consensus. They don't enjoy conflict; rather, they seek areas of agreement.

Sigh

It's hard to not get frustrated sometimes. I find myself hoping that people are different and then I start to find out... Ya, you get where I'm going.

Pray

Please, please, please pray for the brother of a friend of mine. He found out that he has cancer. They could really use a miracle.

Firework

I wasn't super impressed with the official video, but I love the lyrics. Here's a words-only version. :)

Knitting

Many know that I maintain a Life List. Some may refer to such a thing as a Bucket List, and mine is much the same except that my list includes items of all shapes and sizes. I have bigger goals, but I also include smaller things that I want to learn, see or do. Sometimes God totally surprises me with opportunities to cross an adventure off the list. Trying my first cannoli was one of those...so cool! Other times...especially like "down times" during vacation...I pull out the list and choose a "do-able" item. Hence...knitting. I used to knit like crazy when I was younger, and I loved it. Alas, my old age set in...hehe...and it is time to re-learn. I found a gal online (see below), and she's going to help me get started. I also have the Knitting Wonder, Leanne, at work, and I plan to ask her as well! Here goes! :)

Nose Prints

I get nervous when I find myself in the situation of "nose pressed against the glass". You know those moments of great anticipation when we were younger where we'd sit by the window excitedly waiting for whatever good thing was coming? That's what I mean...and I think my "glass" is literally frosted with nose prints. ;)

It's not a bad situation in the least. Stuff happens understandably. Just one where I noticed my hopes rising.

And when that happens???...oh boy, am I in trouble!

Why? When you open yourself up to anticipation, you also open the door to disappointment. Not that it's bad...It's a very good thing!!! A lot of people, for fear of loss, never allow themselves to hope. But, you know...the reality is that hope often clouds our broad perspective, letting us forget about the other possibilities that maybe aren't as desirable and making the inevitable loss a bit of a surprise. Maybe that's how hope is supposed to be though...more excited "for" a situation than rational. A nose with a little frost bite on the end. ;)

It's a good test, I think. For what will our response be? In my opinion withdrawal is never an option. Life without hope is no life at all...even with the possibility of disappointment. Ha!...I guess I'd rather be a hope-FULL fool than a logical pessimist.

Alright. Off to grab a bandaid and head back to the window! :)

Gumption

Love This Clip..."Look at You!"

Jesus Born On This Day

The Christmas Road to Eden

We begin the celebration of Christmas tomorrow, the holiday commemorating the birth of Christ. And, of course, what many acknowledge is the shadow of the cross over the sweetness of the manger...that Jesus' birth was the beginning of the march toward his death for our sins.

Many Christians are satisfied with that as the complete story, and their lives are framed around it. They are sinners, saved by grace.

Ohhhh, but there is so much more!

The sweet little baby...the suffering Hero of our hearts...point us all the way back to our human beginning. The garden where a man and a woman walked with God...where He told them who they were...where they believed in and knew His goodness. Their lives were framed around it. They were sons and daughters marked by destiny.

As you sit in the experience of the manger this year, may you hear the beckoning of our beginning and continue on the Christmas Road to Eden.

Fantastic Movie Interchange

Felipe: "You know what you are? You are slender and elegant at a distance, but up close you are round and fleshy..." *big smile*

Liz: "Thank God for Brazilians!!"

Haha! I love it!

And another...

Liz: "I'm so sick of everyone telling me that I need a man!"

Felipe: "You don't need a man, Liz! You need a champion!"

*sigh* :)

Peopled Out!

It's been a crazy week! And a short one at that!!! I swear my introvert side is screaming for a break!! I'm going to be people-free for a chunk of hours to revitalize the soul. Shhh! ;)

Be Who You Are Made To Be

I think it's good to pause once in a while and remember who 'you' are. Be that gal!!!

Ellie from "Up"

Legalistic Parents Make Me Hear The Voices

Ephesians 6:4 says, "Parents, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord."

Boy, sometimes I'd like to send this out to parents...legalistic ones...regarding their own children and their approach to other's children. I deal with a couple of those from time to time, and they seriously drive me insane. Their legalism actually gives them "permission" to target particular kids, and because they largely complain to the "right" (i.e. wrong) people, they get away with it. Well, I'm on the verge of going off like a rock star. Hmm...

Blog #1,000!!!

Oh my goodness! When I started blogging in 2007, I never imagined I'd actually have a total of 1,000 blogs under my belt some day! Being a typical "starter" and not a "finisher", I was pretty sure I'd throw in the towel after...2. Haha! But here I am...1,000 blogs later!!

Here's what I said in my very first one!
--
Well, I should start by saying that I have led a very messy life...at least more recently. And this messy method of living is such a relief! I read once that it's better to live in the mess of an original life than in the perfect photocopy of someone else's. So after years of living as the "perfect" non-existent Christian girl (plllllleeeease!), I decided to admit some sad but true things about myself. And a very unique thing happened...I started to live...really live...and find a very real and living God.

I've wrestled with so many things...But as I've begun to live in the great dance of divine love, Jesus has begun to whisper my identity in my heart's ear. I am not those things from the past... No, I'm a delight...living out the gifts of wonder, compassion and wild hope...a warrior princess...a mystic princess.

The great adventure begins...
---
And what would I say 3 years later??

It's all still true!! In so many ways, I've never looked back! In the moments I have, I sure haven't lingered for very long. Oh ya...I still have things I have to work on. Imperfection is a definite reality. You know what though?...I have far more dreams than I ever had when my eyes were fixed on all the ways I could never measure up. Life in the wide open spaces of grace...

So...cheers to blog-journalling! Another 1,000? Ha!...who knows!!! :)

Oh, the pursuit!

I Love My Doctor!

I had my 36,000 mile check-up recently (Thanks, Susan, for the "lingo"). We know how to have fun, don't we? ;) I have to give major kudos to my doc. I come every year with a string of questions. Some are related to all my physical quirks, and others come from my inquisitive side. She must look forward to my arrival each year...NOT!...but she sure is fantastic with all my wonderings. She's very encouraging to me too. She waited to get married and have kids until she was older. She wanted to pursue some other ventures before all of that. I love her story because she appreciates where anyone is in their relational journey and is excited for all stages. There's no such thing as "waiting" to her...that is, waiting to "live" until Mr. Right comes along. She reminds me of my pastor's wife, Martha, actually. So wonderful. :)

Oh how I LOVE these two!

Ignorance is not bliss...

Our culture prides itself so much in "independence", and of the original intent I am so proud. BUT...the extremes to which we seem to take it frustrate me so much...to the point that I believe we have become content with a prettied-up package of "less".

Living lives that are so disconnected, making us unaware of and sometimes cold toward our neighbor. Lives that revolve around the narcissistic "me" to the degree that we devalue others...often unintentionally because we simply cannot see past ourselves.

So sad...because people matter...community matters...to the degree that true "thriving" depends on it.

I must admit that I actually have to include myself in this scenario too. I just don't seem to always notice it in myself until I'm on the receiving end. Tough to experience, but I guess it's good to be reminded that there is a better way to live.

Feeling Festive :)

All I Want For Christmas

BUDs

Yep, it's that time again! I get to go hang out with a million little ladies at a local church's Christmas Tea for their age group. ADORABLE!! Hopefully, I can get my speech together though! It's been one of those crazy days so...we might just be "winging it". AHH! :)

Pastor Ryan Chats

I've had a storm brewing inside lately. Happens from time to time. Apparently, God planned for me to meet up with one of my pastors for a moment of "speaking to the storm". Man, it was so good. Granted, I didn't like everything he had to say...but those were more because I needed to have a serving of "veggies" for the soul. Definitely helped me get back on course. THANKS!

Coming Home

Interesting song of the "returning prodigal" sort. Yes, it's rap...haha!...I'm not usually into that, but this one seems so "real" that I'm fascinated. Unfortunately, I can't find a version without swear words. :( Don't listen if that will bother you.

Great Video Message :)

Father's Love Letter

Birthday Wish

I was with a friend last night who asked me how it feels to be turning another year older and still be single. Ha!...hold nothing back! Well, I must admit that one of my greatest birthday wishes is to have a significant Mr. celebrate my birthday with me. I've always wanted that. BUT...I will wait for God's timing on that. Anyway, it's always funny to me when that question comes up because it can mean so many things. Sometimes it's just a question because the inquisitor knows my heart on the matter. Other times, though, it's a clue that they think there is actually something "wrong" with being single still. Goodness, I'm so not there anymore. While it can be a struggle, I understand that there is a time for everything under the sun...

So, here's to another year...hopefully, one with some special presents. ;)

The Risk of One's Heart

My Uncle Tim is such a blessing! He's a life-long learner and with great humility just lives out his lessons. I am a willing student! Well, I am constantly amazed at the things he says...things that I know God is saying through him...things that speak to struggles and questions that I keep deep inside.

Last night was one of those.

My Uncle came up to me at a church gathering last night, said this and walked away..."It's my business to manage risk (he works in the financial industry), but I have found that the greatest risk of all...above any other kind...is the risk of sharing one's heart. So, I'm praying for you!"

In similar fashion to the other times he does this to me, he actually doesn't know anything that I'm specifically going through or hoping for. He's just a heart-man, and I love him for it. So...That's about where my eyes started tearing up. :)

That's the life of courage that I'm meant to live. And yes, with that risk comes pain...but a heart can't know love without that possibility. One either risks nothing to ensure never being hurt...embracing a life of lonliness...or one lives with arms wide open...embracing the hurts that may come but diving deep into an ocean of intimacy.

I'm going to be a girl marked by that risk...

Closed

I feel so bad about people who've learned to live with closed hearts.

Breaking in?...why does it have to be so hard?

Ok...I understand that part. It's scary outside their walls, so they'd prefer the safety of their lonliness.

But still...

When is it time to come out and play? Ever?

And...how long do we wait before we wave the white flag and move on...?

Cold Cold Heart

Don't Give Up!

Wow! What...a...powerful...song! I'm a big Pink fan, but this arrangement is a nice complement of a variety of talents. And the message...oh so sweet! I love 4:24 and on. "Whatever may come. Whatever may go. That river's flowin'.."

Be the Leading Lady!

O Holy Night

My Tree

I just finished putting up my Christmas tree!! It's...beautiful! I LOVE twinkle lights! The more, the merrier! Oh, how I love this season.

Daydreamer

‎"All men dream, but not equally. Those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds wake in the day to find that it was vanity; but the dreamers of the day are dangerous men, for they may act their dream with open eyes and make it possible."

Note to self...I will dream by day.

Grid

I try so massively hard to not view things with my "grid". Ugh, that's hard sometimes. So, instead of staying there, I'm just going to post a clip. Seems better. ;)

The Adventure Through Song of Solomon

Something I HIGHLY recommend is reading through Song of Solomon in the Bible. Make sure you read it as God's gal...the woman being sought after. It's a powerful picture of intimacy with the divine. I love how He always speaks of her beauty. He never leaves her in her perspective of herself, but instead calls her up another level to His perspective. The other special thing is the verse that says, "Don't awaken love until it so desires." I love the notion because it brings an element of peace to the journey towards Mr. Right. With all of the goodness of God's heart...and our openness to the possibility of romance, love will awaken in the right time.

World AIDS Day

I'm wearing red today for World AIDS Day. It's a battle that's important to me. I've included a link to a young lady that moved to Uganda to "love your neighbor". She inspires me. I've also included a couple of videos about children orphaned due to AIDS.

Katie's Blog

Helping Kenyan Grandparents

Love you Long Time and Whenever

I do have to say...I really love the Black Eyed Peas sometimes. They come up with some "different" sounds. Here are some new ones.

The Girlie Desires

I'm sure I'm flying my "Freak Flag" (reference to movie 'The Family Stone')...well, that or my girlie side...but I just have to share something that is my dream.

I'm pretty sure it's clear from my other blogs that I'm a "heart" girl. I think it's the deepest and most precious treasure in a person. It's also the most scary thing to reveal to someone else...but the greatest at the same time. It's the real YOU. Well, it's my dream to have someone someday actually want to get to know me...actually want to pursue me...and delight in that. It's what I want to do for Mr. Right too. Absolutely nothing would get in the way of that...well, except my experience of that with God...but that alone only makes my relationships better.

So, there you have it. Wearing my heart on my sleeve tonight. :)

People Bring Out Your Patterns

I heard someone say that people bring out our patterns...revealing our "grid", pushing our buttons, accessing our wounds. While frustrating sometimes, I guess it really is a gift. Why in the world do I say that??...God never wants to leave us in positions that are "less" than who we are meant to be.

I'm experiencing that a bit lately. While I'm not sure whether/if I'll be staying involved, I must say that God's been using the situation to push on some things that He clearly doesn't think I need anymore. Challenging...but so good for this heart. Opportunities to deepen abound.

Food for Thought

Manipulated

I don't like finding out that one of my friends is being manipulated. I have one in a situation like that right now. People in unhealthy situations tend to put descriptors on their feelings (usually blame-oriented) that aren't entirely accurate. Things they are experiencing that are more the consequence of an unhealthy action, but because of their need for the disfunction, they will only name it with titles that reinforce their unhealthiness. I find it very difficult to be sensitive to the sadness they must be experiencing...especially when it is directly manipulating someone I love. FRUSTRATING! God, give me your perspective...because I want to open a can...

Thankful

I've been thinking about what I'm thankful for this year. Of course, I always start with the blessing of my family and friends. I have nieces and nephews coming out my ears, and each one brings such joy to my life. I have friends that are "closer than a brother". Without a doubt they have my back AND challenge me when I'm off. True friendship! The other thing that I have to say I'm thankful for this year is a plethora of experiences that pushed me "outside the box". My perspective was broadened, more fears were challenged (and defeated), and I made so many new friends and networking connections. Great lessons all around! :)

Come What May

Well...hehe...if you've read my blog long enough, you know that God and I have an "interesting" relationship. ;) I actually love it because it's probably the most real thing in my whole life...far beyond doctrine for me. I've learned over the years to listen to my heart's songs...especially in the morning as I'm first waking up. I think it's so much clearer then because my mind is still a bit foggy allowing my heart to have center stage. The songs I hear from my inside are sometimes the songs from God's heart to me, and others are from my heart to His. I love it. Well, this week I woke up to a strange one. It was a signature song for a movie that I didn't particularly enjoy, but the main love song was pretty powerful. I kept hearing, "I will love you until the end of time. Come what may." I 'youtubed' it later and was so moved. My God's love is overflowing. :)

My Feelings About The Weekend

Uh-oh

My students often tell me...well, everything...HAHA!...more than I want to know usually. ;) It is an interesting peep-hole into the home, I must say (taken with a grain of salt, of course...hey, if you'll believe half of what you hear about me, i'll do the same for what i hear about you...hehe). One that made me a bit frustrated the other day...still has me thinking...is a situation where the parents, in going "to bat" for their kid, actually communicated a great deal of disrespect for another adult. The kid now feels a sense of justified bitterness and proceeds to bad-mouth the individual at will.

Not cool.

Man, that could have been handled in a far more mature fashion. They could have defended their child without feeding an atmosphere of disrespect. Guess what???...that will come back in the parents direction most definitely some day (if not already).

*sigh*...the things we teach our kids that we probably didn't intend...

Biggest Loser - Makeover Week

I love when the competitors on Biggest Loser make it to Makeover Week. I love watching them get to celebrate the new "you", but my all-time favorite part about it is that they get to be reunited with loved ones. I...cry...like...a...baby! It's a great stop along the way of an intensely difficult journey. Love it!!!

Biggest Loser - Makeover Week

Science Brought Me Back...

It's ironic really since so many people who choose to not believe in God actually use "science" as the reason to not, but I was reminded today that it was actually "science" that brought me back to God. A silly thing...a massive reaction that occurs in the body to produce energy in a usable form...I stared at it written out with all of it's steps and sub-steps and literally cried. Haha! I knew that I was staring at a fingerprint of God in the human body. Anyway, I was talking about cellular respiration with my biology class today and was reminded of the moment. It's good to always keep "wonder" with you as you go through the day...it's amazing what you'll see that you couldn't before. :)

Giving Them Opportunities

I've had a couple of irritating situations this week. I know it stems from different perspectives on older children...well, and some control-freak-ism (that's a new term I've developed). It's just that I like to give my older students opportunities to demonstrate responsibility and see my confidence in them to do so. We are releasing them into adulthood after all. Within reason, of course, I think it's a good challenge for them. Other adults seem to really struggle with that notion though. I don't know if it's more of an elementary mindset or a need to be in control. Regardless, it bugs me. :) I so wish I could have the secondary kids in another facility sometimes. Way less drama...guaranteed.

Projects Accomplished!!

Oh man!!!...I have such a great sense of accomplishment right now! I was able to get so much done this weekend in preparation for winter! I had help from wonderful friends and family too. Can't go wrong!!

Stranger Than Fiction

Student Giggles

I literally get the giggles watching/listening to my students sometimes. They do some of the weirdest things!!! HAHA!

Of course, I'm assuming I was never this way...umm...

Devo from Pastor Ryan...Love it!

Manna 11.15.2010 “Seeking the Lord”

Proverbs 6:1-5
“1 My son, if you receive my words, And treasure my commands within you,

2 So that you incline your ear to wisdom, And apply your heart to understanding;

3 Yes, if you cry out for discernment, And lift up your voice for understanding,

4 If you seek her as silver, And search for her as for hidden treasures;

5 Then you will understand the fear of the LORD, And find the knowledge of God.”

***Seeking the Lord is no small thing. Our God is not a small God, and service to Him is not a flippant or sloppy pursuit. Listen to the way this Proverb describes the attitude one will have who is seeking Him: receive my words… treasure my commands… incline your ear… apply your heart… cry out… lift up your voice… seek and search as for hidden treasure.”

Have you ever seen a desperate man? Have you ever witnessed a man who has resolved to go after something, and will not give up until it is accomplished? In a culture where just about every want can be satisfied with the click of a mouse, it is hard to find men who have learned the journey of seeking and pursuing. In addition, impatience is in epidemic proportions in our country, leaving us crippled, defeated and distracted when we don’t have an immediate answer to our plight.

On a bad day, our vision for life is too small, our view of God is feeble, and our desire for fellow mankind is shallow. If we have low expectations, settling into complacency and mediocrity is a natural next step. Oh that God would ignite in us a true vision of his intention! Oh that our desires would not be so small! May God have mercy on our faint hearts and small minds, and give us the grace to seek Him the way He deserves, that He may be found and experienced.

Gone in the Morning

This song played at the end of a movie I saw last night. I think it's very sweet! He's singing about how much he loves his dreams and wonders why they have to be gone when he wakes up. I do too!..Haha! But don't worry! I'm working on a way to make dreams a reality. :)

The Need We Reveal...

I wish we could stop and consider the wound that is revealed in some of our moments of angst. Wounds that are legitimate, of course, but not meant to be fed in our relationships and endeavors. The fact that we attempt to do so explains a ton of the frustration we experience when people or things don't go our way. Those things sometimes aid in the healing, but they are always meant to be the lesser contribution to the repair. The core of a need is meant to be filled with an intimacy with God. This frees us to be able to bring life to our relationships or goals...rather than require more of them than appropriate.

Here's an example. I knew a guy when I worked in the cities who had a tremendous wound of rejection. Because it continued to go un-healed...untouched by a good heavenly Father...he turned all of his relationships (unconsciously) into a wound-feeding frenzie. Not that they were aware, but naturally people didn't stick around because they were more a "remedy" than a real person. This created a self-fulfilling prophecy to the rejection wound, reinforcing that he was "rejectable". Not the friends' fault at all...just the natural outcome of an unhealed wound.

What if we opened our eyes to the notion that something internal may be fueling the pain in our lives? Not always, granted...but sometimes???...it's the trigger. Such great hope, I think...when we choose to let God touch those places...if only we'd consider...

Feminists for Life Info

Looks like there is more success every day in starting up pro-life/pro-woman chapters on college campuses. So great to educate young women who may be driven to abort out of fear that there are resources and options available. The FULL gamut of information!!

Great Info

Women's Retreat Fun...and Craziness!!

:)

The retreat this weekend was GREAT! Wonderful ladies, great worship and sharing, yummy food, fabulous facility! Makings for a great time!

Of course, there was also the snow storm. Ummm...like 10 inches??? Haha! It was enough snow that we actually lost electricity for 15+hours. Thank God for fireplaces!!! Needless to say, though, a group of women utilizing a facility by candlelight...with no running water...was...interesting. ;) Having no oven also made meals a challenge. We made the best of it though, and it was a wonderful time!

I'd do that again any day!

David Crowder - Shine...creative video!

Eden

WOW!!!! I am so amazed! A new friend from the retreat sent me on a hunt for this song. It's so great!...totally sums up my heart for God. It's not new news that I'm Eden-obsessed...utterly convinced that the cross is our gate and invitation back to Eden's heart. LOVE IT! So...here I am...summed up! :)

The Pursuer

Well...I had a wonderful experience this weekend at the women's retreat. Ha...I actually had many, but those are for future posts. ;) My own heart has been battling an issue a bit. I've been crying to God about it, hoping he would do something, but it's been frustrating. I ended up at a lunch table with a lady that I've known for years without really knowing her, and I had the fortunate experience of hearing a bit of her story. If only she knew the part of my heart that she was speaking to. I was so touched by her honesty. She had been in a previous relationship that was marked by a ton of dysfunction...not a safe place for her heart in the least. That ended...and she had to go through the tough stuff of seperation. Well...God had a marvelous story for her...life was still left to be lived. After years of a relationship that didn't honor her heart and as a beautiful 40-something gal, she experienced pursuit for the FIRST TIME...and continues to...from a wonderful God-loving man. Well, it's one of my deepest desires, and she spoke right to it. God is so good! :)

Off to the women's retreat

Well, here we go! I'm off to help speak at a women's retreat in Wisconsin. Should be a blast! I'm excited for what God is going to do! It's been a really frustrating week for me, so I feel a bit depleted going into the teachings...but, what do I know about God??...That's his perfect opportunity to do His thing. ;)

My Parents

...are basically the most amazing people I know. :) I got home yesterday to a far less full garage. They'd been busy bees taking things that I needed to get rid of to the dump. I...was...shocked...by how amazing it all looks. Should I tell them that I just plan to fill it with more things??? Hehe. Juuuuust kidding!

"Abba's Child"

Great book by Brennan Manning. Steph and I started reading it together. It has me considering an awful lot...good but tough. Haha!...seems to be something God is interested in me exploring!!

G. W.'s Interview

It's not new news that I love this guy. LOVE him! I'd, in fact, so love to have dinner with Laura and him. :) I've been wondering how he's been doing since the completion of his terms. He's been pretty silent....I hope for some much needed rest!!!

One of the things that's a little irritating is all of the criticism he has taken. The average person, assuming they had all the information and insight into situations that he had (ridiculous), evaluates his decisions as if they could easily do the job from their kitchen table. Truly?...Probably only his inner circle would be equipped to make such critiques. So insulting. Probably how the new guy feels sometimes. ;) Anyway, no one's perfect, and he certainly made his fair share of mistakes. Who, as a President, is unique in that?? Certainly Obama-licious has made his colossal marks already...Yikes. ;) But...as soon as we work out the kinks of our entire culture and get everyone back on board with "love your neighbor", we'll have everything worked out. Yep...it's THAT easy. ;)

Anyway, I really respect G.W.'s honesty. What a good heart. What a good man. :)

Pres Bush Interview

What the "Rule" Reveals...

Yep...another vent. :)

Everyone knows I work in a school. Private one. Well, we have a dress code...which, of course, is the focus of unbelievable amounts of drama by just a few students (challengers) and a few parents. If only they realized what the stupid "battle" reveals...about them. Of course, why would we EVER challenge the kid that just seems to push the limits constantly?? The answer??...BECAUSE they push the limits CONSTANTLY, and no one wants to call a spade a spade.I actually have some parents who have a vendetta against other people's kids because they want to be sure that their kid isn't the only one getting addressed. Kinda cruel really. I have others who freak out when their kid gets in trouble because it somehow means they are a bad parent. Not true! Who would even think so? So frustrating.  Not addressing things?...Not a very good sign of so many things that I'd think would be important to a parent. Think about the future, people???...not the future of what they will wear...the future of WHO they will be until they have just the right amount of Hard Knocks. Insecure at minimum...Sad. (Some have their whole identity wrapped up in what they wear.) Disrespectful and self-focused...Tragic. (Some will never be taken seriously by a boss, etc.) Rebellious...Don't get me started...

The suggested answer???...have MORE rules. Yep, let's punish the majority of the others who humbly respect the requests of their authority with a sizable dose of legalism.

Barf.

On "Bowling"...Hehe!

Snap-a-licious

I have now kicked my own butt several days in a row at Snap Fitness! I'm exhausted, but I feel great! I've also reduced the carbs in my life by a ton, and I'm starting to have the sugar "fog" clear. Feeling better and better each day. Granted, I was massively crabby this morning...probably just withdrawal. ;)

The biggest bang for my buck...the elliptical. It's a whole-body cardio workout. That followed by some weights. Woo-hoo!

Time's Ticking...

Well...I'm almost there. I'm hoping for the 11th hour surprise, but I'm preparing for what things seem to indicate. I think life is just so busy for some, and that makes it hard for people to be a priority...so...*sigh* because I'm not made for the backseat, I think the time is nearing... Hope not, but you know...

Oh Dear

I had a conversation this week with a man regarding his wife where he actually used the word "control". I...have no comment.

What to do with all my squash??

Oh..My...Gosh! I just tried this (with some modifications), and I LOVE it! I didn't have blue cheese so I used sharp cheddar. I'm also not a huge bread fan for recipes unless it's stuffing, so I used as little as possible. I'm...in...heaven.

Butternut Squash Bake

The Drummer

I'm STILL in shock/awe over a crazy band experience that I had last week. The band had a drummer that was...something else. I 'youtubed' them...check this out. My fav has to be around 2:00 mins+...

Chip's Speech

How weird is this? I was a delegate at his endorsing convention. I, of course, had no idea what was going on...HAHA! Uneducated...new to the process. I just knew that I really admired him and his thoughts on matters. Months later???...He's in!!! Go Chip!!

Chip's Acceptance Speech

Interesting Article

Boyd article

Over...or Not?

This has certainly been an interesting season. Oh, I should preface that I'm being so overly cryptic in this blog, so don't worry about trying to figure it out. The situation probably isn't what people are thinking I'm talking about. Pheww...that was complicated! :)

It is certainly interesting...and difficult...to be in a situation where a lot is assumed without any contribution of your own but you still have to bear the consequences of everyone's assumptions. That's been my lot lately. I have had to bear the consequences for the pushings of others. I've done my best to not be inappropriate, but that has meant that choosing the "smile" and the "silence" has been pretty painful at times. It just seemed the only way to be honoring without completely bailing on the moment. Why not bail?...because I actually have some interest involved in the situation.

Right now, though, I feel sort of sad about all of my "appropriateness". Not that it should be about me in the least. Just...you know...sometimes I hope there will be light shown on the situation in a way that let's me be revealed for my actual position in the situation...for the fact that I wasn't the start of any of the drama...even though I've had to take the heat, the distance, the embarassment at times, etc. Saying that feels a little selfish, I guess...but it could be possible that there's an ounce of standing up for myself a bit.

I don't know...I guess there are things that we address and others where we have to trust God and the goodness in the hearts of people...tough for me because sometimes it feels like the trusting paints me the fool.

So...the question...is it over? At minimum, hopefully the drama is...for some reason I have hopes that the limit in the drama might actually allow for some knowing...don't know though. Crossing fingers.. ;)

Tell Me Something Good

HAHA! I saw this song performed on Glee and laughed!! Plus...it's a fun song!Yowza! Probably not for the kiddos...;)

Snap It Is

Well...the party's over. Actually...it's just on it's way, I guess. I'm back at Snap for my workouts. I love the outdoors so much that I can't justify it for myself during the months with nice weather. Now that everything is brown and crusty???...back to it! One nice thing is that a lot of my friends go, so I don't have to workout in that awkward silence...alone with my thoughts. ;)

Party, Party, Party

The polls close at 8pm...and that's when the party starts!! Hopefully, it will be a celebration of some victories...but either way, it'll definitely be a celebration of a campaign well run!! I actually was able to help with one that was soooo respectful! No trash-talk! No shady tactics! All because of the candidate...he's honorable like that.

Yep...it's possible.

Why I Vote the Way I Do

Basically, here's my deal...and yes, I understand and respect that we all think differently...I tend to vote in a "conservative" direction. A lot of "Republican" going around in my head. BUT...I'm not that way simply because I like elephants more than donkeys or because that's my family norm. I actually have personally "owned" thoughts on the matter. Shocking...

#1 for me this year has to do with "loving my neighbor". I do NOT think that some system should be loving my neighbor for me. I think that's a sad commentary on society when we have to rely on institutions and guidelines to take care of our fellow man. I think that is living less than human. So, with a heart-felt understanding that I/We need to step it up, I will NOT vote for "more" of someone else doing it for me.

#2 for me is that it is time to take some responsibility for our society's endorsement of the entitlement mentality that always pushes off the consequences until later and onto someone else's plate. Well, there aren't any more "plates"!!! There is no future without fiscal responsibility.

AND...I believe it's possible to be responsible with pocketbooks and neighbors all at the same time.

#3 for me is the pro-life issue. Consistent with my #1, I do not feel that a "right" solves the core problem. When 70% of women who choose an abortion are doing so because of fear of lack of support/resources RATHER than a conviction that they have a right to do so, I have to wonder if our national "solution" is really the appropriate answer. It seems more like an "out" for everyone with some pretty serious consequences all around. In being a good neighbor, I'll be a part of the support and resources.

So...that's my logic. Take it or leave it. :)

Judges

I've been getting a lot of questions about voting for judges in the election tomorrow. There tend to be tons of names with little knowledge of who they are. I only know the conservative names off the top of my head because I swing that way. Here goes...

Supreme: Wersal and Tinglestad
Appelet: Griffith
District 10: Penwell

Election on the Horizon

It's almost here!!! Tuesday is Election Day! I haven't done as much as others, but it's definitely been a busy season. Folding letters, knocking on doors, stuffing boxes, making calls, manning booths...I'm tired! Many of the candidates really have a good shot this year...so I'm really hopeful. We'll see! And then I'll nap. ;)

CRAZY!

oh man...no specifics here. sorry. i am almost at my wit's end regarding an invisibility issue. i...hate...when...i...feel...that...way.

Where the Life Goes

Well...our community just got some terrible news. The fall of a leader. Certainly, it is assumed "innocent until proven guilty", but it sure seems like things are leaning in a sad direction.

It reminds me of something though...

We need to pay attention to the direction of life in our lives. Are we life-BRINGERS or life-TAKERS? I think God's ideal for the wonderful human spirit is to receive life from him...living from a full heart...and bring that life to all of our roles, responsibilities and relationships. A cup that runneth over. Living less than human, of course, means that in the absence of being filled with life to the full, we literally suck the life out of those previously mentioned areas. Feeding rather than sharing. Doing so???...well, it really limits our effectiveness and "shine"...but it also sets us up for terrible falls. Hurting the very ones we could have helped...

Titanic Thoughts

Alright...I must admit that I saw this movie SEVEN times in the theater when it first came out. It was soooo moving for me. I literally cried OUT LOUD the first time I saw it. Interesting question though, isn't it?...a choice between the one that represents control and/or appearances (a.k.a. the safe life) and the one that speaks to her heart. Wow!

Also...the song by Celine Dion??...the way she sings the end...the soft cry...so captures the sound of deep heart-grief for me. You know...past the loud pain to the moan of deep sorrow. She's right on! If you can't hear it in this clip, search out another. It's amazing!

Jack was such a "Jesus" for me by the way...and someday hopefully my Mr. Right. ;)

Heaven Thoughts

I've decided that God should let me be one of all of three things when I get to heaven...HAHA!...a drummer, a dancer, or a Glee-style group singer. Ya...that is all. ;)

Dreamed a Dream

Man, I think I'm in a Les Mis mode!!! I must be needing to see it so very soon! Here's a Glee-version of a great song from the play. *sigh*

Being a Nice Girl

Why does being nice to some people have to be so hard? I mean "hard" for the one you are trying to show some kindness to... In a strange way it makes the one who's just trying to be nice actually feel guilty or embarassed for causing angst. It's hard for me to understand.

BUT...I guess I'd rather be the weirdie who tries to help...although I wouldn't mind not feeling so awkward. Guess it's a choice of mine to feel that way about it or not. :)

Quotes

Anais Nin had fantastic quotes! How funny that her profession was an erotic literature writer in the 50's!

Life is a process of becoming, a combination of states we have to go through. Where people fail is that they wish to elect a state and remain in it. This is a kind of death.


I, with a deeper instinct, choose a man who compels my strength, who makes enormous demands on me, who does not doubt my courage or my toughness, who does not believe me naive or innocent, who has the courage to treat me like a woman.
 
We don't see things as they are, we see them as we are.
 
And, of course, my favorite...
 
There came a time when the risk to remain tight in the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.

Laminin

Ya...I'm such a science nerd. What can I say though...it literally brought me back to my faith in God after a little journey away. :)

BUDs

Another event on the horizon! I get to spend an evening with the little ladies at First Baptist Church for their Christmas Tea in December. These gals are a total blast! All ranging in age from 5 to 11. So sweet!...and So spicey!!

Best Scene!

Gladiator

What can I say?...I was missing a little of the Gladiator.

Can't help it...

...but I really want to be pursued. I want to be wanted and known for who I am in the deepest sense. I don't aspire to be anything less. And...I intend to be/do the same for the him. What can I say?...I'm a quirky, mysterious and fabulous gal. ;)

Beauty and the Beast

By far...one of my favorite movies ever.

The Parent Wrapped Around the Pinkie

Ohhhhhh man! One of the worst kinds of situations that I have to deal with in school is the parent who is snuggly wrapped around the finger of a manipulative child. Drives me INSANE! You know why???...the kid's cards are never called and so much growth is delayed. Truthfully, it signs the child up for the School of Hard Knocks. VERY frustrating! What to do??...wait for the moment when the manipulation is so abundantly clear that the parent has to dislodge from the finger. Unfortunately, that type of situation is generally pretty serious. Otherwise, the unwrapping would happen a ton sooner.

Grrr!

Me.

The Challenge

HAHA! Well...how to put this...I Lived!! Those who know me well know how much of a challenge it is for me to be "me". What I mean by that is that it has been very difficult for me to just be myself. Who I am today is far less the "wallflower" than I used to be, but I still wrestle with the challenge to not hide myself.

A great desire and struggle for me is the fact that I enjoy speaking. Women's ministry, kid's ministry, sermons, school presentations...I love it. I love any opportunity to learn more...to grow...in that area. I gravitate towards anything that has a spiritual or character orientation. I also love anything pro-life (as you can tell from my profile). The struggle??...I've occasionally experienced judgment for it...especially from men. Not all men, that's for sure. Some of my biggest supporters and mentors are men...and I so value that. Others though?...I don't know if it's a competitive thing or a pride thing, but I've had some hurts in that department. Speaking has actually become a realm of great joy and great risk for this girl.

Well, I had a surprise yesterday related to that. I don't know what the impression was yet, but at least I didn't pass out or hide "me" too terribly. Great challenge! Nice surprise!

Tomorrow's Sermon Song

Dynamite

Sometimes you just have to let go and dance around. That's my plan. :)

I'm here

I'm feeling a bit invisible. Some situations provoke that in me. It's puzzling, isn't it?...the times we don't give a rat's arse...and the times our boats get so rocked we have no clue where "up" is... Yep, interesting. I guess I'm just not sure what to do with a case where I'm clearly the "second class citizen". The thing is, I'm not a wallflower...and in fact, I'm worth the dance. So...I'm just trying to decide what's up and what to do next.

Chip Cravaack

Voting in 17A

The Invisible Person

I have found it so entertaining lately to watch white people who really don't spend too much time in the presence of people of color. (I've actually experienced the reverse too!) When there is such a person around, some of those "whitie's" act so WEIRD!! And, I don't even mean people who are racist at all...just people who unknowlingly (or knowingly) feel there is a difference and have no clue how to act. Sadly, the other usually becomes an invisible person...not by their choice or doing, but by their treatment. It's like it's easier to just pretend they aren't there than actually step into the "unknown".

I don't have that particular reaction because I've been blessed with a host of family and friends that color up my life. So wonderful! BUT, before I can get too proud of myself, I realize that I too have a particular people-type that makes me get all flustered and uncomfortable.

So, I'm wondering...who are the invisible people in our lives? People of all shapes, colors, and sizes who somehow make us feel "different". And...what will it take to step into the "differences" and actually get to know people?

Hmm...

Memoirs of a Bullied Kid

A friend posted this today on Facebook. It's a powerful story.

Single Dad Laughing: Bullying

Interesting Prof Quote

Greg Boyd was a fantastically controversial professor at Bethel when I attended. I enjoyed how he challenged our "thinkings" on so many topics related to faith. While we aren't in total agreement on all things...where'd be the fun in that!...his honesty really helped me to own my faith (and be open to my relationship with God driving my life rather than popular and/or acceptable dogmatic thought)!!

He just twittered this...food for thought...

"I find it perfectly absurd to suppose that nature alone evolved creatures like us who yearn for things nature itself can never provide."

Blow Off

Grrr...I don't like it when that happens. Are some just not good with valuing others? Maybe they just don't get it or understand what that feels like or are just afraid of something...? Hmm. It's not like I'm a mean person...or a crazy person (most of the time). ;) I guess it's just hard to know that I'm probably being judged based on who knows what info, and there's nothing I can do about it. All the trying in the world can't change it, so it's a little sad. BUT...I guess I just keep on moving.

I'll Be

Breath of God

Rebecca DeZurik came to school the other day to sing and talk to the kiddos. She sang this song, and it really blessed me. I totally needed it that day!

Resident Evil: Afterlife

Yaaaa...I hate to admit it, but I'm an "Alice" fan. I don't know why I love seeing zombies get what they have coming to them...I just do.

Why She Says I'm a Gypsy...

Well...I finally found out what this whole "gypsy" business is about (see previous for background). :) I was so confused by my niece's thought that I'm a "real-live" gypsy. I had an encounter with a gypsy in Spain a few years ago when a friend was being pick-pocketed by one. Haha! Yes, I know that the stealing was by 1 gypsy...and that all gypsies are not like this. Even still, I was confused because I'm about as Swedish as they come here. I talked to the teacher this morning, and she said that she actually just showed them two clips of Esmerelda from the Disney movie "Hunchback of Notre Dame". In one, the gypsy woman is singing and dancing, and in the other she sings about her heart for outcasts. Below is the song she sang. So "C" came in after school and I had the clip playing. She said, "Yep, that's you, Auntie". Apparently, I sing with a tambourine and love the outcasts. ;)

The Gypsy

Well, here's the strangest thing. My 6-yr-old niece came to my office after school today to tell me about what she learned in class. She proceeded to tell me about gypsies and showed me an art project she made. She then said to me, "Auntie, when she was talking about gypsies, I kept saying to myself that Auntie Sarah is a real-live gypsy."

HAHA!...What???

Hmm...I absolutely must find out from the teacher what in the world they talked about. I'll report back later...

God, Give Me Strength!

AHHH! I seriously need a bit of patience right now...and probably less of a pride flare-up too! Hehe! I have a couple of people in my life who LOVE to be the "experts" on every freakin' thing...with very little life experience to go with it. It drives me bonkers. 

Storms..

Interesting...New Middle Road

I Try

Les Miserables

If you ever get the chance, you MUST see the musical "Les Miserables". It's actually pronounced "lay miserab" ('a' in father). Anyway, it's just the best broadway play that I've ever seen...a great contrast between grace and legalism...plus, all the kinds of love. :)

Upcoming Opportunities

Well...my plate is starting to fill up again. Some of the new things are actually going to be great challenges for me. I'm excited to see what God does. The first is a sermon/teaching about Jesus calming the storm. That's in a couple of weeks. The second is a women's retreat. I have to prepare a couple of teachings. Should be interesting!

My Students

Oh my gosh...seriously! I love my kids this year! Ya, I know they have their struggles, but they are so much more real and accessible. Makes my job a lot more fun and rewarding...also lets us all (them included) see a ton of progress in whatever area it's needed. I have so many kiddos that are invested learners...woo-hoo! Makes teaching a blast.

Ask the Right Questions...

I think it's wise...when considering solutions...to make sure I am asking the right question. Seems like a no brainer, I guess. However, so many of our answers to the world's problems seem less an actual answer and more a way to avoid really dealing with people (but making ourselves feel like we've done something).

Not good enough.

Shaking head...

oh man...sometimes. maybe it's that i'm not afraid of jumping in some teen's trench and addressing an issue... i get so frustrated by adults that tiptoe around some teens...i.e. being manipulated...and not just addressing the issues! if you aren't a shamer, jump the freak in!!! they NEED it! they DESERVE it! they are WORTH it! skirting around issues might make them "feel" all fuzzy, but in the long-run it's a HUGE disservice. making more rules so you don't have to address the heart behind a challenge???...STUPID! deal with the kid...they are real and valuable people after all.

man, i love blog-venting. ;)

HAHAHAHAHA!

"What is it that creates a rainbow effect in a sprinkler...this cannot be natural..." HAHAHAHAHA! I think I might hyperventilate from laughter!!!

Step into the Unknown

I've been running into an interesting conundrum lately. The Christian who is absolutely dependent on relating to God ONLY through an instructional "how to" book. They don't like to read the Bible without a study guide. They don't like to spend time with God without a scripted prayer. The notion of anything other than "structure" and "formulas" to create a sense of divine intimacy is insane!!

Insane..but oh so short of what it all could be.

Getting people to step into the unknown mess of an actual relationship with God...two-way intimacy...man, that's tough.

A good challenge though. ;)

Sermon Topic

Hmm...I have a teaching to do in a couple of weeks. Jesus vs. the Storm. Considering the fact that my life has been one lately...this should be...umm, interesting. Haha! :)

Depressing!!

man, but strangely i'm a lover of songs like this.

Closer to Love

Career Thoughts 3

Another aspect of my job that I love...helping kids that are struggling. For some reason, Friday was "purge the soul" day with some of my high school students. They walked into my office and told me things they are struggling with but want to work on or walk out of. Wow!! Gutsy kiddos!! I admire it because it involves a huge risk...what if I reject them?, what if I discipline them?, what if there's no hope of progress?... But they are so desperate to "get real" that they'll take the leap! I get to be someone who tells them there's hope. I also get to help them (sometimes with parents too...depending on the issue) choose discipline/accountability, find counsellors if necessary and begin the tough road home. All the while??...huge amounts of honor and value and love. I, of course, always pray that they choose this direction as opposed to me having to "catch" them and make their lives miserable until they choose to love themselves enough to make a change. Hehe!

Summing it up?...coming alongside someone who wants restoration and peace in their life.

Career Thoughts 2

So...in my thoughts about "next" in my career journey, I've decided to look at the parts of my job that I enjoy. First?...teaching. When I get to pass along 'wonder' and find ways to translate the tough stuff in a way that is ultimatley understood, I experience great satisfaction. I love to continue to learn so I feel like I'll always have something to share. Honestly, I also enjoy taking on things that I know absolutely nothing about. I get to learn it, find the "amazing", and pass it on. Love it!

Resolve Things

Interesting observation...we really need to resolve things clearly when uncomfortable conflict arises. Here's why...if you leave things "if-y", you can potentially call into question the integrity of others who aren't really a part of the situation. The "fringe" people. Well, I'm in one of those. A situation seems to have not been resolved clearly enough...put off...put off...and somehow the window was left open to call "me", a "fringe" member, into question. I personally know that I didn't do anything wrong, but the circumstances have been very interesting. Hopefully, all parties take responsibility for their parts. Hmm...

Career Questions

So...I've put the "career" back on the questioning table. I do that from time to time, which is probably a healthy thing to do. I try to not ever ask those questions after a bad day or challenging experience though. I want any changes to be due to insight and calling...not frustration. To be honest I actually was hoping that God would open some doors a year ago, but nothing came my way. I re-upped for another year for lack of direction...and an economy that probably wouldn't allow for a "quit and find something else" decision. So, here I am again. Lately, I've found myself begging God for guidance. I need my arrow to point in a direction so I can chase after a sunrise. It's an odd predicament because I believe in the mission of the school, and I have aspects of my daily responsibilities that I am passionate about. I just think that my own life-vision is changing.

Abortion Survivor

This is very interesting. Worth watching the whole thing. As a 'Feminists For Life' supporter, I also think it's necessary to bring support to the women in this position...most are making the decision based on fear. Hence, why I support organizations and relationships that bring support...

The Situation

Do you ever find yourself in a situation where you know that how it turns out will be SO telling? Oh man...I'm observing one of those right now. I'm so absolutely sure that it's going to help me with some decisions. Now to get things moving faster...Hmm. ;)

Great Video

Wow! A "Must See"...

Season's End

well, the sand v-ball season finally came to an end. it was so cold when we played our last game, but we did well! we took 3rd place overall! i'm so unbelievably sore, but oh well!...it was so worth it! i'm already excited for next year!!

Volleyball Tournament!!

well!!!...it's true! we made it to the season tournament for sand volleyball! i'm...so...shocked!! haha! what i'm more excited about is that we beat the purple team. sheesh!...we were behind them in points for a while, and it drove me crazy because we are better! we made it though...LOVE IT! so, here's to crossing another thing off my life list! i'm totally going to play next year!!!

Ovarian Cancer Walk

Many know that my Mom is an ovarian cancer survivor. :) Well, there's a fundraiser coming in November that I think my family is going to participate in. Should be great fun!

Walk for Ovarian Cancer

Purple Funk

Yesterday was basically a horrible day. It ended better...which was an immense blessing! I got up today and decided that I would give the day a jumpstart. It's time for the purple funk. It's a crazy shirt I have that basically resembles a halucination on fabric. Can't...Go...Wrong! (hopefully). ;)

Tough Day

You know how they (whoever they are) say that sometimes "it has to get worse before it can get better"? Well, I think I'm in one of those moments in time. I actually had the thought last night that I might be losing heart...not the norm for this chica in the least. Ha!...usually I'm fighting too much heart. ;) So I'm praying that the clouds have silver linings...and they probably will...just can't see 'em at the moment.

Here's Psalm 61 for today.

1 Hear my cry, O God;

listen to my prayer.

2 From the ends of the earth I call to you,

I call as my heart grows faint;

lead me to the rock that is higher than I.

3 For you have been my refuge,

a strong tower against the foe.

4 I long to dwell in your tent forever

and take refuge in the shelter of your wings. 

5 For you have heard my vows, O God;

you have given me the heritage of those who fear your name.

6 Increase the days of the king's life,

his years for many generations.

7 May he be enthroned in God's presence forever;

appoint your love and faithfulness to protect him.

8 Then will I ever sing praise to your name

and fulfill my vows day after day.

Good verse for today

I love how the Message version of the Bible puts things sometimes.

Romans 12:17 "Don't hit back; discover beauty in everyone." :)

All of Romans 12 in that version is pretty interesting, I must say.

9/11

A friend posted a video today on Facebook as a tribute to those that died on 9/11. I can still remember where I was that day...with a lot of confused kiddos...and how everything changed because of the attack. What a terrible and sorrowful day! The stories of those who perished and those who fought to save as many as possible are so moving...to this day.

You know what I've been thinking about though? How much I disagree with the notion that the event gives people permission to be prejudiced against Muslim people. To me, those that go that route of thinking stand in a position of revenge as opposed to justice. I'm pretty sure that's never right.

Anyway, much remembrance today...and prayers for peace and those left behind.

You Can Do This

Can you tell that I've been looking at clips to motivate kiddos??

Risk

Love this clip!!

We started our retreat for the secondary kids with this clip. Love it!

Great Quote Part 2!!!

This is so awesome! I talked about a friend's quote in my post yesterday regarding our uniqueness. He sent me the one it was referrencing. It's had me thinking so much! Every now and then I experience a bit of lonliness in some of my areas of passion. It stops my movement, makes me wonder which direction to go...on and on and on. Turns out that those feelings are NOT a call to shrink back...but to share. Hard to do...but meant to do? Looks like that's the plan! Maybe the lonliness ends in the sharing...

“I have found that the very feeling which has seemed to me most private, most personal and hence most incomprehensible by others, has turned out to be an expression for which there is a resonance in many other people. It has led me to believe that what is most personal and unique in each one of us is probably the very element which would, if it were shared or expressed, speak most deeply to others.” – Carl Rogers

Food for Thought

"The thing that makes you unique is what you are meant to speak about. It's the piece you bring." A friend said this to me the other day. It has me thinking a lot.  

Fear Challenge

I listened to an interesting sermon today about fear. There was an interesting comment that got me thinking...and agreeing actually. The pastor said..."Sometimes our fears are actually our salvation". He meant that sometimes the things that terrify us most are actually a key to our heart's freedom. I've actually experienced this in moments where I've had to hang on to God and courage and step through some of my fears...SO much growth came through those challenges. Food for thought when the next fear challenge arises... :)

The First Day of School...AGAIN!

Well...here we go! No matter what I've forgotten, it's here! I usually have a bit more excitement, but this one has been such a tough prep that I'm actually experiencing...relief! Haha! Once that first bell rings, the year just takes off. Hopefully, there aren't too many glitches...but either way...oh well!! Can't really do anything about it now! HAHA!

Give Me Jesus

This is just such a sweet song that I need to hear sometimes. I went searching for it on youtube (Ortega's version is my fav) and stumbled across a tribute video that he did for Ruth Bell Graham. I love what Billy Graham says towards the end. I had always heard that they loved each other so much. *sigh*

Micah 6:6-8

6 With what shall I come before the LORD
and bow down before the exalted God?
Shall I come before him with burnt offerings,
with calves a year old?

7 Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams,
with ten thousand rivers of oil?
Shall I offer my firstborn for my transgression,
the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?

8 He has showed you, O man, what is good.
And what does the LORD require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy
and to walk humbly with your God.

Whoa Brennan!

Man, I love this guy!

Our Deepest Fear

I can't say I agree with everything this author believes, but I sure do love this quote. It actually speaks to some of what God's been nudging me in lately.

"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear in that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our Light, not our Darkness, that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be?

You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the World. There is nothing enlightening about shrinking so that other people won’t feel unsure around you. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It is not just in some of us; it is in everyone. As we let our own Light shine, we consciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others."

-Marianne Williamson

Jack's Tips

I knew I got that Freak Out Countdown from somewhere!!

Somewhere Over the Rainbow

i'm sitting at my desk absolutely freaking out. you know...one of those moments where you give yourself 10 seconds to freak out before you go back to the tasks at hand. ;) this has to be one of the most disorganized intro's to the school year that i've seen in ages. waaaaayyy to many last minute decisions...and of course the details of those fall to me...not cool. it's been very overwhelming. ahhh! well, i sat down to have my "freak out countdown" when this song came across my pandora. reaction...ok, i can do this. granted, i might die...haha...but part of me can know some peace while plodding...

Women's Retreat

I always recommend these when they come around. I love, love, love the book 'Captivating'. It's a book for women about living from the heart in a great romance with God. The similar book for men is 'Wild at Heart'. Anyway, there's a women's retreat coming up. I think I'm going to aim for it. :)

Captivating Retreat: Unveil

Let's be honest...

Mean...People...Suck!

Ya, I just wanted them to know that I know! ;)

Curriculum Writing

One of my favorite things to do in regards to the teaching portion of my job...well, one of them...is curriculum writing. I LOVE coming up with the objectives, activities, tests and projects. Ways to translate into all of their learning languages...and share the wonder. Woo! So great! :)