City Girl

I'm Moving!

2010-03-26T12:28:00.000-05:00

I'm moving my blog that is … to tumblr. Join me at http://dtctygrl.tumblr.com

Testing the waters with a new program. So check it out.

For Sandra

2010-02-27T11:52:00.003-06:00

Community Group adds so much to my life. When a group of people come together to explore God's Word and share life, well … it just doesn't get any better. Sandra and I share a common bond of both being from Michigan. Ahhh… someone else who understands the power of the Great Lakes!

Sandra, this one is for you.

2010-02-09T16:01:00.001-06:00

"Your wings already exist.

All you have to do is fly."

- Unknown

Snow in Tennessee

2010-02-03T16:01:00.003-06:00

So we had a rare snow over the past weekend with an accumulation of 4-6 inches at my house. Must admit I LOVED it. All the necessary supplies were on hand for settling down and enjoying my cozy little home. Of course, it helped that the Winter X Games were on television. Those crazy snowboarders! They make it look so easy.

Growing up in Michigan usually meant an abundance of snow during the season. I always felt like the little brother in "A Christmas Story," so weighted down with winter clothing that I couldn't move. God forbid you should fall down and no one was around to have sympathy on you! No sympathy equals target practice for snowballs.

Best childhood winter memories … sledding with my brother. We lived near railroad tracks, so we had a ready-made hill to enjoy. Then there was "suicide" hill for the brave-hearted, located on the other side of the tracks. Bikes in the summer and sleds in the winter. We made our share of snowmen, igloos, and forts, and definitely had snowball fights! And having the best mom in the world, we had ample hot chocolate when we were ready to warm up.

What are some of your favorite childhood winter-time memories?

Book Give-Away

2010-01-12T16:17:00.005-06:00

The Sweet By and By

I reviewed it - now you can read it too!

This new book by Sara Evans and Rachel Hauck has just been released by Thomas Nelson Publishing. I have one copy that I am giving away. Just leave a post telling me about a "sweet moment" in your life that you would like to share. Maybe it was a moment with a parent, friend, mentor, etc.

To get you started I will share a "sweet moment" or two of my own.

A little over 10 years ago I lost both of my parents to terrible illnesses. They died a little over a year apart. It was a very trying four year journey with my mother becoming ill first, and then my father.

A sweet moment God allowed me to have with my father came when he was too ill to live alone and he moved in with my family. We knew he was terminal and time was short. God allowed me precious time to cuddle up with my Dad and share our hearts with each other. I learned so many wonderful things about my Dad: his true heart, his love for his family, the things he wished he had done differently, etc. We cried, we laughed, we learned from each other. I discovered I was more like my Dad then I had ever imagined!

A sweet moment with my Mom came just a few days before her death. She had suffered a brain aneurysm four years prior that she actually survived; but it left her paralyzed and in a nursing home. Aneurysm number two hit and the end was near. When I arrived at the hospital she was still able to talk (against all odds and astonishing the doctors). As minutes slipped by, her abilities were slipping away. She opened her eyes one last time, looked me in the eyes, and silently mouthed the words "I love you." She then closed her eyes and slipped into a coma. Death came a few days later. My mom was my best friend. I lost so much that day.

Difficult. Heartbreaking. Precious. Sweet. Moments that time cannot take away.

May your sweet moments be lighter than the ones I shared. Tell me your story.

Book Review: The Sweet By and By

2010-01-05T20:07:00.002-06:00

The Sweet By and By

Sara Evans with Rachel Hauck

This christian romance novel is definitely for those who love "chick-lit" material. Love, pain, grace, and forgiveness are woven into the fabric of Jade Fitzgerald's life. Worlds collide as Jade interacts with her family, her fiancee, and the customers at her vintage shop, the Blue Umbrella. Her past, present, and future collide in this love story of redemption. Sara Evan's first novel, co-written with author Rachel Hauck is a sweet, endearing story that will leave those who love christian fiction satisfied.

International Border Crossing

2009-12-04T12:17:00.003-06:00

Another part of my childhood included International Border Crossings between Detroit, Michigan and Windsor, Ontario, Canada. Mom and Dad had friends who lived in Windsor and the surrounding areas, so a Saturday or Sunday trip over was a common occurrence.

This video is of an Ambassador Bridge crossing. I remember the little green toll booths, car inspection, and more than a few times the inspector saying he would keep me until my family came back through to head home! Although I know now that he was only joking, back then I must say it made me very nervous. (Government officials for either Country were serious business!)

I can remember the bridge shaking when traffic was heavy and always wanting to take the tunnel instead. Dad would tell stories of playing on the bridge when he was young. Foot traffic was allowed then and he would fly paper airplanes from the bridge or try to drop bouncy balls on the passing ships. He and his friends probably were the ones responsible for foot traffic being stopped!

While I'm glancing back at the 70s...

2009-11-30T09:30:00.002-06:00

This was my dream car! I can remember climbing into the driver's seat of a 1974 Javelin in the AMC showroom and dreaming of that far off day of actually having a driver's license. I thought this car was the most amazing machine ever built.

My family spent a lot of time (and I do mean a lot!) in various car dealer showrooms and car lots. To say my dad loved cars is an understatement. No mistaking his being from Detroit. For whatever reason, he got on a kick for American Motors cars. We ended up owning a red Hornet Sportabout as our family car; but I never lost the feeling of climbing into the Javelin and falling in love ... with a car.

Guess I'm my Daddy's girl. :)

Memories of Thanksgiving Past

2009-11-27T12:05:00.002-06:00

This was part of my Thanksgiving Day in 1973!

Cookie Recipe from a non-cookie baker

2009-11-25T14:31:00.002-06:00

I've never been good at making cookies, but my life changed after discovering this easy recipe. Enjoy this one for quick holiday treats.

1 box cake mix (your choice)
1 egg
1 stick butter melted
Optional ingredients according to your tastes: chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, caramel bites, raisins, etc. options really are limitless

Blend all ingredients. Form into balls and place on cookie sheets. Flatten with spoon. Bake at 350 degrees for approximately 10 minutes. Enjoy! (dough can also be frozen for baking at a later date)

Happy Thanksgiving!

It's Christmas Time

2009-11-21T10:26:00.003-06:00

The sun is shining brightly here in Tennessee. The temps will be mild today. Not exactly Christmas time weather, but today the festivities begin nonetheless. The house goes through a major cleaning (well, maybe minor, at least there will be a general straightening of things.) The tree goes up, decorations brought out, star on top of the tree - not sure who's turn it is is this year, but it's safe to say I'm the only member of the family who still needs a chair to reach the top :). Christmas music is playing in the background, pumpkin bread may or may not go into the oven, but at least the candles will lend a holiday scent to the atmosphere.

Even though my girls are grown, our household still loves the wonder and magic of Christmas. No toys have been under the tree in years. (Video games don't count, do they?) Everyone will sleep a little later on Christmas morning than say, 10 years ago. Our faith is our family foundation and holidays always help us to refocus and bring balance back to our hectic lives.

Please don't think I've by-passed Thanksgiving though. Our holiday season really begins the weekend before Thanksgiving and we celebrate life, love, family, and our faith throughout the year. The holidays just help us focus a little more on home and hearth. (We could probably back the time frame up to Halloween to be honest.) Thanksgiving morning I will be up early to put the turkey in the oven and enjoy a cup of coffee and quiet time before everyone else gathers for the parades. Then it's off to my in-laws home for a larger family gathering. I tend to miss my parents more than ever at the holidays. I can't believe they both have been gone for 10+ years now.

Still trying to talk my brother in to going home to the D for skating at Campus Martius Park.

Well done!

2009-11-04T09:55:00.001-06:00

If you haven't had a chance to watch "Glee" you're missing something great! Enjoy.

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-31T08:51:00.002-05:00

Enjoy the fun!

Operation Serve 2009

2009-09-27T19:35:00.003-05:00

What an amazing three days! Ron and I had the privilege to be project leaders with the most awesome Operation Serve leader ever! (Even if he won't admit it, Ron and I don't mind saying it!) Clay, we were humbled by your heart to serve others, your willingness to do the tough stuff, your ability to make things happen, and the way you made the impossible a reality. Mike and Jeannie, what an inspiration you are to all of us. You, too, made impossible things a reality. Josh, not only do we have the privilege of being in community group with you, we got to work side-by-side and your character, commitment, and heart for others could be seen even in the worst of circumstances. To our team - all of you worked above and beyond! I am humbled and honored to have labored beside the amazing group of people God brought our way.

Peter, Paul & Mary: A generational thing?

2009-09-19T10:45:00.002-05:00

A generation seeking unconventional answers to conventional questions.
A generation wondering how to impact the world.
A generation throwing caution to the wind
and rebelling against racism, war, segregation, and political turmoil.
A generation creating a culture in which future generations
would try to immulate, revive, control, and deny.

RIP: Mary

Bringing Kellsey Home

2009-09-11T12:14:00.003-05:00

My friend, Renee, is probably one of the most amazing women I have ever had the privilege to meet. She will tuck her head and disagree when she reads that statement, but I stand behind it wholeheartedly. She and her husband have generous hearts and want to adopt Kellsey from Eastern Europe. She is a Down Syndrome baby and she belongs to this family in every way possible - except for the miles that separate them. Time is running out on gaining the funds to bring this sweet baby home. If you can help it would be greatly appreciated by me and by one of the most humble, sweet-hearted families I know. Don't miss the blessing of Bringing Kellsey Home!

Opportunity

2009-09-08T09:17:00.002-05:00

Don't overlook your chances
As 'long Life's way you go;
Don't let them drift as waters
Beneath the bridges flow.
Let not your opportunities
As sunbeams fade away,
Slow may they be returning
So grasp them while you may.
Waste not Life's days in dreaming,
For dreams may ne'er come true,
Dame Fortune shuns the laggard
But stands, awaiting you.
Today's a grim reality,
And yours to make or mar,
Tomorrow but a phantom thing
That lures you from afar.
So grasp the task before you,
You'll conquer it somehow;
You'll win, just keep a striving,
Life's golden hour is now.
So put your shoulder to the wheel,
What matters it the grade?
You'll find success a rich reward,
Well worth the fight you've made.

- Orrin Alden DeMass (1926)

Opportunity is here: Operation Serve 2009

Notes from the Tilt-A-Whirl

2009-08-21T17:16:00.002-05:00

I recently finished reading "Notes from the Tilt-A-Whirl" by N.D. Wilson. I found it to be a kaleidoscope of the human senses, emotions, and wonder of the world God created. Wilson presents a unique and challenging view of our pre-programmed belief systems. He expands the vision to include an “outside-of-the-box” look at who we are, who God created us to be, and the wonder of a world we often lose sight of in our own hectic lives. I loved the way Wilson honestly explores difficult topics and relates them to his readers. Read it with an open mind and renew your own wonder of God’s world.

Neavitt, Maryland

2009-08-10T08:23:00.004-05:00

I'm not sure you can even find Neavitt on the map. It is a small residential community 8 miles from St. Michaels. The view from our house is looking at a small harbor. This is a commerical fishing area, as well as a water playground: sailing, fishing, jet-skiing, etc.

It's a step back in time here, with quaint, older homes, friendly neighbors, peace and quiet. Yet, only a few hours away from Washington, DC, Baltimore, etc.

I love being on the water, but for anyone who knows me, this is not new information. This is a beautiful place.

The Call of the Morning

2009-07-31T10:14:00.002-05:00

Comes a lure on the breath of the morning,
A call on the wings of the breeze;
A path winding on through the gateway of dawn,
'Neath the shadows of whispering trees.
The vine tangled wall echoes its call,
The pasture with emerald is spread;
The song of the bird, 'mid blossoms is heard,
The dogwoods are blooming o'er head.
So let us away, and gypsy the day,
Bursting the fetters that bind,
Children to be, frolicking free,
Casting our cares to the wind.

- Orrin Alden DeMass

Sunshine and Shadows
(copyright 1926 - Orrin Alden DeMass)

Community

2009-07-28T08:21:00.003-05:00

Community is more than the neighborhood in which you live.
Community is about relationships.
Community is about making life better for others and yourself.
Community is what makes a difference in this world.

Georgia Street Community

Are you in community?

Selfishness is unbecoming.

2009-07-22T09:32:00.004-05:00

Do you spend more time focusing on yourself
and your wants than you do on others and their needs?

How do you spend your time?
How do you spend or use your resources?
How do you use your talents?
What standard do you use to measure success?

Selfishness is unbecoming.

Do something to change your world:
http://www.bloodwatermission.com/
http://www.africaforjesus.org
http://www.tomsshoes.com/
http://www.holylanddesigns.net/
http://www.963coffee.com/
http://www.landofathousandhillscoffee.com/
http://www.samaritanspurse.com/
http://www.rwandacleanwater.com/
http://www.tenthousandvillages.com/
http://www.compassion.com/
http://www.worldvision.com/

Others?

Whose culture do you embrace?

2009-07-08T09:57:00.003-05:00

Romans 12 (The Message): Place Your Life Before God

1-2 So here's what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. Don't become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You'll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you.
3I'm speaking to you out of deep gratitude for all that God has given me, and especially as I have responsibilities in relation to you. Living then, as every one of you does, in pure grace, it's important that you not misinterpret yourselves as people who are bringing this goodness to God. No, God brings it all to you. The only accurate way to understand ourselves is by what God is and by what he does for us, not by what we are and what we do for him.
4-6In this way we are like the various parts of a human body. Each part gets its meaning from the body as a whole, not the other way around. The body we're talking about is Christ's body of chosen people. Each of us finds our meaning and function as a part of his body. But as a chopped-off finger or cut-off toe we wouldn't amount to much, would we? So since we find ourselves fashioned into all these excellently formed and marvelously functioning parts in Christ's body, let's just go ahead and be what we were made to be, without enviously or pridefully comparing ourselves with each other, or trying to be something we aren't.
6-8If you preach, just preach God's Message, nothing else; if you help, just help, don't take over; if you teach, stick to your teaching; if you give encouraging guidance, be careful that you don't get bossy; if you're put in charge, don't manipulate; if you're called to give aid to people in distress, keep your eyes open and be quick to respond; if you work with the disadvantaged, don't let yourself get irritated with them or depressed by them. Keep a smile on your face.
9-10Love from the center of who you are; don't fake it. Run for dear life from evil; hold on for dear life to good. Be good friends who love deeply; practice playing second fiddle.
11-13Don't burn out; keep yourselves fueled and aflame. Be alert servants of the Master, cheerfully expectant. Don't quit in hard times; pray all the harder. Help needy Christians; be inventive in hospitality.
14-16Bless your enemies; no cursing under your breath. Laugh with your happy friends when they're happy; share tears when they're down. Get along with each other; don't be stuck-up. Make friends with nobodies; don't be the great somebody.
17-19Don't hit back; discover beauty in everyone. If you've got it in you, get along with everybody. Don't insist on getting even; that's not for you to do. "I'll do the judging," says God. "I'll take care of it."
20-21Our Scriptures tell us that if you see your enemy hungry, go buy that person lunch, or if he's thirsty, get him a drink. Your generosity will surprise him with goodness. Don't let evil get the best of you; get the best of evil by doing good.

Are you being the person God made you to be?
Are you always trying to "keep up" with someone else?
Is your motivation to improve God-driven or culture-driven?
Are you more motivated to improve your own circumstances or the circumstances of those around you?

Over The Edge

2009-07-01T13:53:00.005-05:00

(Picture by Brian Jackson Sun-Times)

The Sears Tower (soon to be The Willis Tower) in Chicago boasts these new observation bays made of glass, giving guests a chance to look straight down 103 stories.

Could you do it?

Click here for more pictures.

Our Generation

2009-06-27T14:22:00.002-05:00

I think this is the best blog yet concerning the passing of Michael Jackson and Farrah Fawcett.

Clarksville Wanderings

2009-06-19T18:15:00.002-05:00

Yesterday I was able to have lunch with a dear friend whom I absolutely adore. She whisked me away for a belated birthday luncheon and a little shopping. We love to visit downtown Clarksville for the unique dining and shopping opportunities.

It had been far too long since I had been to Hodgepodge and I enjoyed chatting with Patti and Paige. If you haven't been to Hodgepodge you simply MUST go! Your next stop should then be ARTifacts . (Go upstairs at Hodgepodge - out the door and directly to your right is the door to ARTifacts.) This store is equally as fantastic! Lots of unique items new and old. The wonderful sales girl was very helpful and stayed upbeat in spite of the heat of the day. I left with a few great finds and a few more that I wish I hadn't left behind. :)

My sweet friend blessed me with food, fun, and laughter yesterday, as we went to some of our favorite hangouts.

Pastors and Their Wives

2009-06-15T13:59:00.002-05:00

I'm so blessed to be a part of Grace Community Church. Yesterday Ron spoke on marriage (check it out on our podcast). He and Chad finished the day by allowing us an inside look at their relationships with their wives. Watch the video above. There were no dry eyes as we all listened to Chad and Christy sing while watching Ron and Cheryl dance. These are real couples, with real struggles just like everyone else, committed to living their lives in front of us as a testimony to God's grace, power, and love. God has blessed me through the friendships I have with Cheryl and Christy, and I am privileged to serve Ron and Chad as they serve Grace Community Church.

Graduation 2009

2009-05-23T16:03:00.008-05:00

My daughter, Lauren, and my niece, Briana, graduated from High School this year. I am so proud of both of these beautiful young ladies. They are incredible young women with much to offer this world. I look forward to seeing what the future holds for each of them. Lauren and Bri, I love you both!Your Nana and Papa would have been very proud to share this adventure with you.

Lauren Renee

Gateway Christian School
2009 Graduate

Briana Lynne

Montgomery Central High School
2009 Graduate

Where have you been in life?

2009-05-18T11:12:00.002-05:00

Where have you been in life? What decisions have you made that ended up costing you everything? Where did you turn? Who helped you? Who hurt you?

Pete Wilson has a great reminder for us over at withoutwax.tv

What fires you up?

2009-05-11T15:50:00.002-05:00

At our last community group gathering Chad asked the question, "What fires you up?" What are you passionate about? What makes your blood boil to the point of wanting to initiate change in this world?

There are many things I am passionate about: family, my church, my work, etc. Many things I enjoy: history, genealogy, counseling, etc. But, when it came time to nail that one thing I am passionate about in order to initiate change, I struggled. There are so many great causes to support: Compassion International, blood:water mission, Soles4Souls, ... the list goes on and on.

I had to really let my heart wrap around the thought, "What fires me up?" I think I've landed on it: INJUSTICE. Injustice in any and every form. People who are treated disrespectfully due to their skin color, their circumstances, their location of birth, their jobs, etc. People who are abused - period. I find a fire well up in me from the least to the biggest of problems. From employees not being treated equally in the work place to third world poverty... injustice makes my blood boil.

What fires you up?

What If?

2009-05-10T17:50:00.001-05:00

Rhythms of Grace

2009-05-01T10:53:00.005-05:00

Jesus said... "Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me - watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly." - Matthew 11:28-30 (The Message)

The Christian life isn't about doing - it's about being. Being found in Christ allows one to do things from an overflow of grace. Are you more wrapped up in doing? or in being?

A Prayer In Spring

2009-04-21T12:08:00.002-05:00

Oh, give us pleasure in the flowers today;
And give us not to think so far away
As the uncertain harvest; keep us here
All simply in the springing of the year.

Oh, give us pleasure in the orchard white,
Like nothing else by day, like ghosts by night;
And make us happy in the happy bees,
The swarm dilating round the perfect trees.

And make us happy in the darting bird
That suddenly above the bees is heard,
The meteor that thrusts in with needle bill,
And off a blossom in mid air stands still.

For this is love and nothing else is love,
The which it is reserved for God above
To sanctify to what far ends He will,
But which it only needs that we fulfill.

- Robert Frost

Boys of Summer: The Bird

2009-04-14T13:01:00.003-05:00

Mark "The Bird" Fidrych died yesterday. For those familiar with baseball, particularly the Summer of '76, Mark was the goofy Detroit Tigers pitcher known for talking to the ball. His antics on the field kept people laughing, while his pitching kept them in awe. For me personally, I was a 13 year old, who happened to have a wild crush on him. (Along with the rest of the female population familiar with him.) He brought an excitement to the Tigers that had been lacking for awhile and gave us one great summer.

Mark "The Bird" Fidrych: 1954-2009

Slumdog Millionaire

2009-04-03T11:36:00.005-05:00

Watched Slumdog Millionaire last night for the first time. It was a difficult movie to view, although the ending was indeed good. The reality of humanity: good and bad, radiates in this movie.

It was difficult to watch people live in squalor and be treated badly. Yet, the problem is ages old. It really made me think about how we treat each other as human beings. It also made me think about what I am or am not doing to be the change I wish to see. I'm thankful to be a part of a church who values human lives across the board. Whether in my own city, or across the world, we desire to be the change that is mandated through the gospel.

I am grateful to sponsor two beautiful children through Compassion International. I know that my family is making a difference in the lives of two very beautiful little girls. One is in Nicarauga and the other is in Ethiopia. There are many more children just like Letu and Ruth who need someone to care. Letu and Ruth share birthdays with my daughters - how great is that! (Yes, we were able to select children with particular birthdays.) It helps us to form a more special bond with these sweeties. We receive letters and drawings from them on a regular basis. These drawings become artwork for our home. We are privileged to pray for them, support them monetarily, and correspond with them.

Even though I feel overwhelmed by the needs of so many people, we are called to make a difference, in whatever way we can. How are you allowing God to use you?

History's Women

2009-03-12T10:24:00.003-05:00

My cyber-space friend, Patty Chadwick, does an incredible job of covering topics of interest to women on her website and through her e-zines. One of my favorites is her site called History's Women: The Unsung Heroines. She does a fantastic job of pulling together interesting articles, book reviews, quotes, and fun facts. I have found Patty to be warm and friendly, with a genuine desire to meet women where they are in life. I encourage you to check out her site and sign-up for the e-newsletters that interest you.

PS: This month Patty has a fabulous article on our new First Lady, Michelle Obama; as well as one on Louisa May Alcott, in the Women in the Arts section.

So ready ...

2009-03-09T14:18:00.003-05:00

One Brave Girl, Three Jonas Brothers, and the Hope of a Miracle

2009-03-03T12:53:00.002-06:00

Watch CBS Videos Online

Join me in celebrating the life of this brave little girl and praying for her miracle. She is the face of countless children who encounter a life-threatening disease. We have much to learn from these precious children on the value of life, the value of a moment, and the value of a life well-lived.

To the Jonas Brothers - thank you. Thank you for seeing beyond yourselves and understanding the big picture God has for you at this stage of your lives.

Broken Hearted

2009-02-16T13:49:00.003-06:00

I went to the park at lunch today just to spend a little quiet time. It is a beautiful sunny day with a chill in the air... perfect for a nice walk. I was enjoying my walk until I witnessed two little girls have their hearts broken by their father. Granted he did bring them to the park, but as they were begging him to play, he began yelling at them. Two little girls who had climbed out of their car full of excitement and eager to spend time with their father became two little girls who stood sullen and quiet, unsure of what was next. He went to a picnic table, typing on his blackberry and yelling at them the whole time. There these little girls stood holding each other's hand, afraid to move. Finally they walked slowly to the swing set and sat down. Their eagerness and excitement gone.

My heart was aching for these two little girls and I wanted to give dear old dad a piece of my mind. I don't think he was in a frame of mind to carry on an intellegent conversation about his parenting skills (or lack thereof). I certainly wasn't having the most loving conversation with him in my head either. So - I prayed. I walked and prayed for those two little girls and their father.

As the mother of two grown daughters, I can attest to the fact that time moves quickly. Your chance to influence your children for good is fleeting. The way you interact with your children will build them up or tear them down. Set aside your own toys, your own agendas, and anything else that takes away from your family. Invest in them. Teach them. Value them. Laugh with them. Cry with them. They are your legacy.

In honor of Valentine's Day continued ...

2009-02-06T11:46:00.004-06:00

So while Donny sang about how "they called it puppy love," we cried over the sheer knowledge that at least he understood how we felt about him...

but then David declared "I think I love you" and we walked in a pyschedelic haze of euphoria for the rest of the 70s.

In honor of Valentine's Day continued ...

2009-02-06T11:40:00.004-06:00

So getting the Valentine card from your crush was exciting and made your head swim for days, but even he didn't compare to the celebrity crush ... oh, they called it puppy love, but I guess they'll never know ....

In honor of Valentine's Day...

2009-02-06T10:59:00.004-06:00

I don't like the commercialism of holidays. I don't like "forced" days that put pressure on people to purchase things to express their feelings. I certainly don't want my hubby to pick only one day of the year to express his undying love for me, but I think that instead of dissing Valentine's Day this time, I will explore what "love and romance" have meant over the years.

The early years ... elementary school ... cardboard shoe boxes covered with red construction paper hearts, flowers, cupids, and glitter. Nothing like picking out that special box of valentine's cards, writing out the names of all your classmates from the list of names the teacher supplied, and carefully selecting just the right one to give to each friend. The "special" friend got the one with what we thought had an underlying, secret meaning that they would pick up on and know that we were madly in love with them (at least for the school year). sigh. The class party consisted of dropping the cards in the appropriate boxes lined up on the window sill, eating cupcakes with pink frosting and red sprinkles (the devoted mom's contribution), stale generic cookies (the frazzled mom's contribution), and a carton of milk (that replaced the little bottle with the paper cap from a previous year or two.) (Yeah, I'm old - get over it). Opening the box and looking at all those little white envelopes filled with sweet sentiments (or not so sweet) from your classmates was overwhelming - but none so overwhelming than finding the one with your "sweetie's" name written on it. Remember putting it under your pillow every night for the rest of the school year?

The Story of Magdalene and Thistle Farms

2009-01-22T14:44:00.002-06:00

I received an order today from Thistle Farms: three books, lip balm, and lotion.
Great products. Even greater cause.

Read the flyer that was included with my order:

The Story of Magdalene and Thistle Farms

"Magdalene is a two-year residential community founded in Nashville, Tennessee in 1997 for women who have survived lives of prostitution, violence, and abuse. Magdalene was founded not just to help a sub-culture of women, but to help change the culture itself. We stand in solidarity with women who are recovering from sexual abuse, addiction, and life on the streets, and who have paid dearly for a culture that buys and sells women like commodities. At no cost, we offer women a safe, disciplined, and compassionate community for two years, paid for by the gifts we receive from individuals and private grants. Magdalene stands as a witness to the truth that in the end, love is more powerful than all the forces that drive women to the streets.

What is Thistle Farms(TM)?
Thistle Farms is a non-profit business operated by the women of Magdalene. By hand, the women create natural bath and body products that are as kind to the environment as they are to the body. All sales proceeds go back into supporting the residents of Magdalene. Through Thistle Farms, the women of Magdalene gain much needed job skills, and learn responsibility and cooperation. Into every product goes the belief that freedom starts with healing, and love can change lives. Our dream is that people will come to see Thistle Farms as a powerful business synonymous with women's freedom.

Why the Thistle?
Thistles grow on the streets and alleys where the women of Magdalene walked. Considered a weed, they have a deep tap root that can shoot through thick concrete and survive drought. And in spite of their prickly appearance, their royal and soft purple center makes the thistle a mysterious and gorgeous flower. Being a Thistle Farmer, means the world is our farm. Harvesting thistles is a way of walking in the world and choosing to love the parts of creation that others have forgotten or condemned."

Visit Thistle Farms to learn more about their story and to purchase their products.

Made in Detroit

2009-01-12T12:33:00.006-06:00

Yes, I'm made in Detroit.
Southwest Detroit.
Father: factory worker.
Mother: executive secretary to the president of a major downtown department store (before she had kids).
Child of the 60s in the D: auto manufacturing, The Big Three, Motown, Hudson's Department Store, hockey, basketball, football (yes, football), U of M, MSU, University of Detroit, Wayne State, International border to Canada, race riots, neighborhood schools, etc.

A city that built a nation ... read about my hometown through the eyes of newspaper reporter and popular author, Mitch Albom.

The Wednesday Letters

2009-01-07T20:15:00.004-06:00

Ok, so I think this may be the absolute best fiction book of late. The Wednesday Letters by Jason F. Wright is perfect: no flaws or faults in the writing or story line, no one dimensional characters. A story of life, death, love, hate, disappointment, greed, forgiveness, redemption, and living in a family of imperfect people. If you only read one fiction book in 2009 make it The Wednesday Letters.

Visit the website and let Mr. Wright's daughter give you a tour of Woodstock, VA. She is a fabulous hostess.

Agony of De-Feet

2009-01-02T14:47:00.005-06:00

New Years Day 2009 was absolutely beautiful in C-ville. Temps were in the low 50s - a perfect day for a walk. And walk I did (along with my two cohorts and the dog). We decided to check out one of Tennessee's Rails to Trails parks in Ashland City. It was an 8 mile walk - (yes, you read that correctly). So today, the legs are stiff and a major blister on the bottom of my foot are the consequences. It was worth it. The walk takes you over 5 bridges. Some are small and others are long and cross the river. We met several people on the trail - some walking, running, and biking. We even met up with a family we know from church. All in all, an awesome way to start the new year.

2008 gone already?

2008-12-31T10:42:00.002-06:00

"Take a good look, friends, at who you were when you got called into this life. I don't see many of "the brightest and the best" among you, not many influential, not many from high-society families. Isn't it obvious that God deliberately chose men and women that the culture overlooks and exploits and abuses, chose these "nobodies" to expose the hollow pretensions of the "somebodies"? That makes it quite clear that none of you can get by with blowing your own horn before God. Everything that we have - right thinking and right living, a clean slate and a fresh start - comes from God by way of Jesus Christ. That's why we have the saying, "If you're going to blow a horn, blow a trumpet for God." - I Corinthians 1:26-31

Great words to end one year and begin a new one. Remember from where you came. Remember what God has done for you.

Examine your life in 2008. Where have you been? Where are you going? How will you get there? Does your plan honor God? Is your plan flexible enough to allow God room to orchestrate His plan over yours for 2009?

See you in the new year!

Christmas time is here ...

2008-12-25T14:25:00.000-06:00

Christmas Eve

2008-12-24T11:11:00.001-06:00

Christmas Eve brings rain, wind, and thunder storms to C-ville. Hope Santa and the reindeer stay safe out there.

Merry Christmas everyone!

Happy Birthday to my Brother

2008-12-19T17:21:00.002-06:00

Today is my brother's birthday. I am blessed to have an older brother and two older sisters. (Yes, I'm the baby of the family.) So, I won't say how old my brother is because I don't want to encourage retaliation, but I will say that he has indeed been a typical "big brother" all our lives. Driving me to tears one minute and then fiercely defending me the next as we were growing up. Still looking out for me to this day, he doesn't drive me to tears as much anymore. :)

Happy Birthday!

Silent Night

2008-12-11T00:01:00.001-06:00

Baby Boomers most likely watched a lot of holiday specials while growing up. From animated Christmas specials to family variety shows ... I loved them all. Another one of my favorites ... Andy Williams.

White Christmas

2008-12-02T16:00:00.000-06:00

The holidays are in full swing at my house. Each night that we are home brings another holiday movie. Last night was one of my all time favorites - Holiday Inn. Love Bing Crosby! How can we start the holidays without White Christmas? Loved the new colorized version and the bonus music CD. What's your favorite holiday movie?

Black Friday

2008-11-28T17:39:00.003-06:00

The day after Thanksgiving, officially known as Black Friday, brought shoppers out to stores the night before in order to stake out their spot in line. Their hopes high on getting the best chance at the good stuff when the store opened. I really don't understand the whole concept of camping in a store parking lot. Seriously, is that the way merchants should earn our business?

Last year on Black Friday the girls and I were standing in line at Target at 6 am. We had our sights on two items, neither of which we secured that day. We were appalled at the rude, pushy people fighting to get the goods. The Electronics Department experienced the worst since everyone wants the latest gaming systems, games, televisions, etc. We were disgusted with the actions of people who were rude, ugly and mean to sales clerks and fellow customers as well. We didn't stay long - turned around and walked out - vowing to not be a part of that stupidity again.

So fast forward to this year, 2008. We spent the day at home enjoying Christmas music, movies, food, and fun. No pushing - shoving - nasty comments - or killings. Yes, killings. The latest report was that one store clerk at a Wal-Mart in New York was trampled to death by angry mobs who broke down the doors. A pregnant women was also sent to the hospital from the same store. In California two people are dead - shot to death - in a Toys R Us store. There are no words - only heart sick at the thought of consumerism in America on Black Friday 2008.

What price are you willing to pay for greed disguised as the Joy of Giving at Christmas time?

Did the Bradys go to church?

2008-11-22T19:02:00.003-06:00

We had a discussion at the office the other day about the Brady Bunch. (Yes, it was random - but, what can I say?) Most of the staff watched it on TV Land / cable in reruns. Some of us watched it in prime time when you had to make sure you were in front of the television at the right time, otherwise you just missed it. So the question came up as to whether or not the Bradys went to church. In the spirit of Christmas - enjoy this clip of a child-like faith, a Christmas miracle, and a beautiful solo in church.

What will you do with Christmas this year?

2008-11-21T10:30:00.000-06:00

Veterans Day

2008-11-11T12:56:00.004-06:00

In honor of all those who have served

and who are currently serving our great country...
In memory of those who gave their lives for our freedom...
With great respect for all who honor God and country

through service in the armed forces...

we remember you this Veterans Day.

In Memory of Richard Livingston
August 20, 1918 - August 28, 1944
Killed in World War II
in service to the
United States of America

Buried in Epinal American Cemetery
Epinal, France

That Girl!

2008-11-10T12:31:00.002-06:00

So it seems I'm taking a trip down memory lane these days regarding tv from my childhood. It just so happens that the girls and I were getting into the holiday spirit this weekend and happened upon season one of "That Girl" starring Marlo Thomas. As any baby boomer girl can tell you, we all wanted to be That Girl. She was cute, funny, independant, and had a great boyfriend!

So after a marathon viewing of season one last night, my girls are hooked! They are just the right age to want to enjoy an apartment in the city and just have a great time exploring life. It seems that the success of the show really was built on relationships. Ann's relationship to her parents, friends, agent, various co-workers, and Donald. It's no wonder that Marlo Thomas became Rachel's mother on "Friends" - again, a show that was built on great relationships and exploring a fabulous city.

A baby-boomer icon who is making a difference in this world, Marlo Thomas has continued the legacy of her father, Danny Thomas, with St. Jude Children's Hospital. She has impacted our culture through television, books, and her love for children. Yep, I still aspire to be That Girl!"

Differences

2008-11-03T12:47:00.001-06:00

So, let us not be blind to our differences - but let us also direct attention to our common interests and to the means by which those differences can be resolved.

John F. Kennedy

November

2008-11-01T14:24:00.001-05:00

Here we are at November 1, 2008. A beautiful day in Tennessee, with temps in the 70s!Birds are chirping, the sky is blue, and the sun is shining brightly. I love this weather. It's hard to believe that Thanksgiving is just around the corner; not to mention Christmas! Time to start making holiday plans...

Halloween Specials: Scooby Doo

2008-10-30T15:48:00.001-05:00

An all time favorite!
So, what are some of your favorite childhood cartoons?

Halloween Specials: Sabrina the Teenage Witch

2008-10-28T11:43:00.005-05:00

Another of my favorite Saturday morning cartoons. :)

Halloween Specials: Funky Phantom

2008-10-28T11:33:00.001-05:00

I loved this show when I was a kid! Saturday morning cartoons were the best!

Fall Break Fun

2008-10-23T10:08:00.006-05:00

Fall Break brought a great trip up North with my daughters and my niece. We started our trip at Cleveland, Ohio's Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. If you haven't been - you need to go! Where else will you see an outfit from the Beatles' Sargeant Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band fame, Michael Jackson's glove and Thriller jacket, and everything from Elvis to AC/DC. :)

Then it was on to Detroit - my hometown - and so many fantastic things to see and do. We covered the Detroit Historical Museum, where there was a special exhibit from my DAR chapter. (Yep, it's official, I am a new member of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Read earlier posting on DAR). We also visited the Detroit Institute of Art (fabulous, by the way), Edsel and Eleanor Ford's home, walking tour downtown: Comerica Park (go Tigers) , Ford Field (where we paid our respects to the death of professional football in Michigan), drove to Dearborn and saw a different side of River Rouge, drove around my old neighborhood, tried to figure out how to navigate through the Ren Cen, visited Belle Isle, and Elmwood Cemetery (hey, it is close to Halloween!) where we located the grave sites of some of our ancestors. We also visited the Detroit Public Library where we found some more interesting tidbits regarding our family history. I'll share some of those things next time.

Kindness

2008-10-13T09:24:00.001-05:00

No kind action ever stops with itself. One kind action leads to another. Good example is followed. A single act of kindness throws out roots in all directions, and the roots spring up and make new trees. The greatest work that kindness does to others is that it makes them kind themselves.

-- Amelia Earhart

Art and the Artist

2008-10-09T11:30:00.000-05:00

View from a Garden

I now have an Alicia Raney original painting in my home. I must say it is fabulous! I smile every time I look at it. It just makes me happy!

Alicia is a talented artist in the Nashville area, a warm and wonderful person, who's art work reflects a wide range of interests and her unique talent to capture the world on canvas. I am so thrilled to support her efforts to pursue her passion of the arts.

Check out more about Alicia Raney at her website.

Autumn Thoughts

2008-10-09T10:08:00.001-05:00

I love the Autumn,
And yet I cannot say
All the thoughts and things
That make one feel this way.

I love walking on the angry shore,
To watch the angry sea;
Where summer people were before,
But now there's only me.

I love wood fires at night
That have a ruddy glow.
I stare at the flames
And think of long ago.

I love the feeling down inside me
That says to run away
To come and be a gypsy
And laugh the gypsy way.

The tangy taste of apples,
The snowy mist of morn,
The wanderlust inside you
When you hear the huntsman's horn.

Nostalgia - that's the Autumn,
Dreaming through September
Just a million lovely things
I always will remember.

by Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onasis (1943)

The Best-Loved Poems of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis

Fall Flowers

2008-10-07T07:00:00.000-05:00

Fall Flowers

Saturday brought a beautiful sunny day that was perfect for visiting Home Depot to purchase mums for the flower beds. How do you decide which colors to purchase? Well, we just decided to purchase some of ALL of them! Couldn't refuse the opportunity to capture a few pics of the butterflies enjoy the display either.

Fall begins

2008-10-06T11:27:00.003-05:00

So Fall has begun. Can't decide if the leaves are dropping because it's Fall or because it's dry. Nonetheless, Fall is here. Nights are cooling off, day temps are up and down, and I'm getting excited about Halloween! I do love holidays - not in the commercial sense, most people have already heard me rant and rave about commercialism; I love the holidays because it draws my family closer. We have decided (or at least a few of us) in my household to celebrate the "31 Days of Halloween." It started with a ghost tour in Nashville on Friday night. Although it was more of a history tour - it was still AWESOME! Check out Nashville Ghost Tours for details. Our guide was an incredible storyteller and covered historical events with a flair. In honor of the Fall season my family will watch "It's The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown," "Bewitched" (who doesn't love the idea of twitching their nose and having the house clean and dinner cooked), "Topper," etc. Nothing ugly and violent - just fun stuff. We will also visit the pumpkin patch and corn maze at Boyd's Pumpkin Patch in C-ville. Yes, even though my kids are grown, we still carve pumpkins, eat candy corn, and enjoy "spooky" fun.

Blondie's and Hodgepodge

2008-10-03T11:33:00.006-05:00

Two places in Clarksville that make my lunch hour especially wonderful are Blondie's and Hodgepodge. My guilty lunch-time pleasure is to spend time with a friend eating lunch at Blondie's and strolling through Hodgepodge to look at all the wonderfully unique things that Paige and her team have collected to share with us.

Blondie's Sandwiches and Coffee is my all time favorite lunch hangout. Andrea, Maggie and the gang take extra care in providing excellent service, as well as fantastic food! Whether you eat inside or out back in the courtyard, you feel welcomed and "at home." Take your laptop, a magazine, or a friend and spend some time at Blondie's.

Once you finish lunch, stroll over to Hodgepodge and check out all the fabulous things that only Hodgepodge offers. I can spend way too long in the store just looking, dreaming, and chatting with the ladies who make it a special place to spend some time.

Check both of these places out and let me know what you think!

Beaver Island, Michigan

2008-09-08T17:32:00.003-05:00

If once you have slept on an Island,
You'll never be quite the same;

You may look as you looked the day before

And go by the same old name.

You may bustle about in street or shop,

You may sit at home and sew,

But you'll see blue water and wheeling gulls

Wherever your feet may go.

You may chat with neighbors of this and that

And close to your fire keep,

But you'll hear ship whistle and light house bell,

And tides beat through your sleep.

Oh you won't know why, and you can't say how

Such change upon your came,

But once you have slept on an Island,

You'll never be quite the same.

This poem is framed and hanging in the dining room of our vacation rental home, The Fisherman's Hou se, on Beaver Island. The home dates back to the 1800s and sits facing the St. James Harbor. Peaceful, historical, whimsical, and endearing. Beaver Island is such a beautiful place, where one can relax and "step back in time" to a less hectic pace, with one grocery store, a few locally owned restaurants and hotels, a library, a hardware store, and a few businesses. No chain restaurants, chain stores, etc. Local flavor only, community-minded yearly residents of about 500 people. Electric cars and bicycles are favorite modes of transportation. The mainland is 35 miles back to Charlevoix via the Emerald Isle, owned by the Beaver Island Boat Company, or by personal watercraft or small planes. The people are friendly, but respectful of you privacy. Going to the McDonough's Market provides friendly conversations and a chance to learn of the local life.

Daughters of the American Revolution

2008-08-22T19:55:00.003-05:00

Today I had official word that my paperwork has been verified and I am now a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution. As much as I love history, it has only been recently that I (with the help of my daughter) have discovered just how rich my family history is and how I am connected through time and space to those who have come before me. I have joined the same DAR Chapter that my 3rd great-grandmother, Jennie Torrey Wendell, helped to establish in 1893. The Louisa St. Clair Chapter was the first Michigan DAR Chapter.

Copy of Charter: The National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution
Dated January 19, 1893

WHEREAS: Frances Parsons Edwards - Eleanor Carroll Poe - Margaret Camp Mason - Frances Pitts Duffield - Isabella Graham Bethune Lothrop - Jane Williams - Helen Strong Pitts - Katherine Sibley Hendrie - Jane Torrey Wendell - Grace Douglas Parsons - Mary Elizabeth Trowbridge - Lizzie Brady Croul Thurber - Irene Williams Chittenden, who are approved members of the National Society of the D.A.R. did, under the authorization of the National Board of Management, on the 19th day of January, 1893, organize a Chapter of the D.A.R. in the city of Detroit, State of Michigan, to be known as the Detroit Chapter, and, whereas the following officers of said Chapter have been selected, TO WIT: Frances Parsons Edwards as Regent; Elizabeth Comstock Poe as Secretary; Mary Blanche Wetmore as Registrat, and Mary E. Gibbs as Treasurer. Now, therefore, the said members, and their successors and associates, are hereby declared to be regularly organized Chapter of the National Society of the D.A.R., to be known as the Detroit Chapter; and as such are entitled to all privileges, and subject to all the limitations of the Constitution and By-Laws of the National Society. Given under our hands and the seal of the National Society this 13th day of February, 1893. (signed) Mary Virginia Ellet Cabel, Vice Pres. - General Presiding / Mary L. Shields, Rec. Sec. General / February 13, 1893.

My paperwork has been verified and I will be approved at the National Board Meeting in Washington, DC on October 3, 2008. I will then be inducted into the Louisa St Clair Chapter on October 25, 2008.

Jennie wrote in regards to our ancestor's service the following:

He [Samuel Torrey] was one of the eighty-three men who, with Ethan Allen, captured Fort Ticonderoga. He wintered in Valley Forge. He helped capture [British General] Burgoyne and was in the Battle of Bennington and Yorktown. He received a pension as long as he lived.

Samuel Torrey, son of Abel Torrey & Bathesheba Ripley
Abel Ripley Torrey, son of Samuel Torrey & Olive Gaines Smalley
Jennie E. Torrey, daughter Abel Ripley Torrey & Eliza Seamans
Ella Wendell, daughter of Emory Wendell & Jennie E. Torrey
Janet Wendell Gibbons, daughter of Robert Tilden Gibbons & Ella Wendell
Percival Grant MacArthur II, son of Percival Grant MacArthur & Janet Wendell Gibbons
Karen MacArthur Grizzard, daughter of Percival Grant MacArthur & Minnie Ruth Woodard

Humbled. Proud. Awed. Inspired.

Image is everything?

2008-08-18T19:16:00.002-05:00

Sometimes, even in the church world, we get so bogged down in details, day-to-day plans, and trying to do and say all the right things to the right people, that we miss the mark completely. I had a wise person tell me that we must be careful not to let the image of the church become our image of God. There are many times within the body of Christ that we just get it wrong. We fight the wrong battles, we hurt the people we say we care about, and we undermind the very thing that God is trying to accomplish in and through our lives. So, we go 'round and 'round until we hopefully learn the lesson He is teaching us.

Too often churches have given a faulty view of God and His saving grace. We sometimes are guilty of trying to portray a perfect place, with perfect people, and perfect lives. When our image becomes more important than the people who are ministering and/or the people to whom we are ministering - then we are wrong. Perfect doesn't exist - not even within the church - not this side of Heaven. As a woman called to full-time ministry, I battle to show a perfect Savior to an imperfect world. Image isn't everything - but Jesus certainly is.

The Last Lecture

2008-08-12T21:35:00.003-05:00

What are the things that matter most to you?
For what things do you want to be remembered?
If you were faced with the reality of your final days, what would you do?

How would you spend your time? What would be your focus?

Randy Pausch was faced with giving "the last lecture" while looking death square in the face. He gave a most moving lecture and book to leave his family and friends. Words that came from the heart - filled with laughter, love, reality, and saddness for the loss of and to his family.

"We cannot change the cards we are dealth, just how we play the hand." - Randy Pausch

Randy Pausch passed away July 25, 2008

Happy Birthday, Mom!

2008-08-01T11:25:00.004-05:00

Today would have been my Mom's 73rd birthday. She has been gone now for 10 years and it hardly seems real.

My Mom was my best friend. She was beautiful, gracious, loving, kind, and loved her family beyond words. I hope that I can leave the same kind of legacy with my family. I don't think I can even compare with her though; but, if I can come half as close that would be much.

Mom, I love you. I miss you. My girls miss you. You would be so proud of all your grandchildren. I wish they could have know your touch a little longer.

Living the legacy, Karen

Lop-sided Grace

2008-08-01T10:41:00.003-05:00

Have you ever found yourself giving lop-sided grace? Extending more grace to one person than to another person in the same situation? Does God extend lop-sided grace?

Quotable

2008-07-08T17:52:00.002-05:00

"You are a child of God.
Your playing small does not serve the world.
There is nothing enlightened about shrinking
so that other people won't feel insecure about you."

- Nelson A. Rockefeller
American politician and businessman (1908-1979)

Twenty Wishes

2008-06-23T11:53:00.003-05:00

I generally don't read a lot of fiction books these days, but I recently read the new Debbie Macomber book Twenty Wishes. I must say that I did enjoy this book, but was most intrigued by the idea of having twenty wishes (or goals) that I would like to accomplish. I really had to think hard about what I would like to do and found that my list really wasn't very original or on the edge. I do believe goals are important, but I had trouble thinking of those things that were solely for me - things that I wanted to do for my own personal satisfaction. As a woman I wear so many different hats that I think I have lost my individuality over the years. I enjoy being a wife, mother, aunt, sister, co-worker, friend, etc. - but who am I without all the roles? When I strip away all the layers I am left with being a daughter. Not just the earthly daughter of my deceased parents, but I am a daughter of THE king. He created me with purpose, ambitions, and desires that are unique to me. He did the same for you.

So what does my list look like? It will be boring in the grand scheme of things and I don't have twenty at this point. I suppose it really is just a work in progress - accomplish one and add another. Isn't that what growth is about?

1) read more for pleasure
2) go kayaking
3) travel to Scotland/Isle of Skye
4) travel "home" to Michigan occasionally
5) visit my Aunt Val in New York
6) go parasailing (without throwing up mind you)
7) spent a few days in a secluded cabin by a lake with my amazing husband
8) take my daughters to Disney (yes, they are grown; but no, you are never too old for Disney!)
9) write one great (or even semi-great) novel
10) recreate on canvas just one painting that I see in my mind
11) ...

So I guess you can say that I LOVE to travel! What are your twenty wishes?

and the time keeps ticking away . . .

2008-05-27T20:47:00.003-05:00

How can the moments go so quickly? How is it that I am not able to accomplish all the things I desire to accomplish? It seems I can only focus on other peoples' agendas and never get to the things I am truly supposed to be doing. Discipline? Hmmm... I am working on being more disciplined in certain areas of my life, but it seems I push my needs to the back burner and give everything I have to everyone else. I think I do this both personally and professionally. People-pleaser? ... perhaps. Feels good to write it out if nothing more than for the sake of getting thoughts out of my head. :)

Daniel Doss Band CD Release

2008-03-03T15:35:00.004-06:00

Last night I was able to participate in the CD release event for the new Daniel Doss Band CD "Greater Than Us All." Daniel is our incredible worship leader at Grace Community Church, and has recently been picked up by Sparrow Records. We celebrated the release of the new CD with 400 people in attendance! It was awesome! "I Need You" is a very special song that will forever make me cry. God is using Daniel's songwriting abilities and musicial talent to bring others to Himself. You don't want to miss this CD - you can pick it up at Wal-Mart or LifeWay Christian stores.

Daniel, you and Emily are incredible! I have watched you both walk with integrity, faith, courage, and strength through the Lord. I am honored to be counted as your friend.

Valentine's Day Already?

2008-02-14T13:43:00.002-06:00

Where on earth is 2008 going?!? How can it already be Valentine's Day?!?

Oh well, my usual rant and rave about Valentine's Day involves stating how much I HATE having a day where "other people" tell me I MUST spend a bunch of money on the people I love in order for them to know how much I really DO love them. Forced holidays are not my idea of a sentimental endearment at all. Give me the little surprises throughout the year and I'm happy. I hope that you don't wait until those "special" days set aside by who?!? - those who want to make a profit off you? - to let your friends and loved ones know how you feel. My hubby lives in a house with 3 females and has learned that chocolate in it's simplest form (Hersheys) is a term of endearment anytime he brings it home to us - and he brings it home often! Those are the moments that let us know he has thought about us during the day and wants to do something special to surprise us. Give me sincerity over forced any day!

NEXTGENerosity

2007-12-28T11:26:00.000-06:00

As we leave 2007 and head into 2008, we as a church are being challenged to live a life of generosity. This goes way beyond church-life as some of us have known it. Way beyond the tithe and way beyond putting a little extra in the offering basket for missions or a youth event. What does a life of generosity look like? Our co-pastors, Ron and Chad, have challenged us to spend the month leading into 2008 examining how God wants us to be generous. Starting January 1st we are challenged to examine and commit our time to serving others, our resources to His work through the church or other organizations that extend grace, love, and mercy to the world, and for us to personally extend the grace that God has given to each of us by giving the same grace to all people. Sounds simple - three little things to consider - but let's see about putting it into practice. www.nextgenerosity.com will launch in January as a place for us to share our stories. I'm looking forward to hearing the stories of how God is working in and through us to reach His world.

Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town

2007-12-22T10:20:00.000-06:00

You better watch out,
You better not cry,
Better not pout,
I'm telling you why:
Santa Claus is comin' to town.

He's making a list
And checking it twice
Gonna find out who's naughty and nice:
Santa Claus is comin' to town.

He sees you when you're sleepin'
He knows when you're awake.
He knows if you've been bad or good,
So be good for goodness sake.

Oh! you better watch out,
You better not cry,
Better not pout,
I'm telling you why:
Santa Claus is comin' to town.

Words by Haven Gillespie
Music by J. Fred Coots

The Holidays

2007-12-01T09:47:00.000-06:00

Well, here we are with the turn of a calendar page - December 1, 2007. How can that be?!? Thanksgiving was low-key for us: spending time together watching movies, eating, laughing and getting ready for Black Friday (early to bed). This was our first year of actually being in a store when it opened. Unfortunately we weren't the earliest of the birds, for we did not get the two worms we were looking forward to bringing home. We set our sights on a nice TV and Guitar Hero III with dual guitars which were featured in the Target ad. We were there by 6 am in a line that wrapped the building. It was absolutely CRAZY!!!! Pushing, shoving, name calling, bad-mouthing the poor employees who couldn't control the mob - a mass RIOT in electronics! Needless to say we turned around and left the store. Lessons learned: 1) It's not worth it. 2) People will kill in order to secure their own little "Merry Christmas". 3) We are all selfish. 4) Shop online.

Happy Halloween!

2007-10-31T14:32:00.000-05:00

Waiting for the Great Pumpkin!

2007-10-24T20:47:00.000-05:00

Michigan Lighthouses

2007-10-23T08:39:00.000-05:00

I'm still hanging on to the memories of my "get-a-way" to Michigan. I think perhaps I need a monthly vacation! I enjoy the lighthouses and the lakes tremendously. This particular lighthouse is in Saint Joseph, Michigan.

Death

2007-10-17T16:52:00.000-05:00

The very sound of the word is cold. Death. But, death is not cold for those who know Christ.

I lost two special ladies in my life within one week of each other. One to cancer and the other to an asthma attack. One was prevalent in my childhood and was close to me during the illnesses and deaths of my parents. The other, a wonderful friend from church and one I was "doing life with" in our community group. She impacted not only me, but my daughters. Her daughters have impacted me and my daughters as well - what a beautiful legacy they are to her memory. I can't believe she passed in front of our eyes, while hosting our community group. She had a great day and was happy, laughing, hugging, and sharing the love of Christ with us.

I rejoice in the fact that both of these dear ladies have seen Jesus face-to-face. Death is not the end. Death is only the beginning for a Christ-follower.

Thoughts

2007-10-14T15:02:00.000-05:00

I love the Autumn,
And yet I cannot say
All the thoughts and things
That make one feel this way.

I love walking on the angry shore,
To watch the angry sea;
Where summer people were before,
But now there's only me.

I love wood fires at night
That have a ruddy glow.
I stare at the flames
And think of long ago.

I love the feeling down inside me
That says to run away
To come and be a gypsy
And laught the gypsy way.

The tangy taste of apples,
The snowy mist of morn,
The wanderlust inside you
When you hear the huntsman's horn.

Nostalgia - that's the Autumn,
Dreaming through September
Just a million lovely things
I always will remember.

by Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onasis (1943)

The Best-Loved Poems of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis

On Lake Michigan

2007-10-02T13:36:00.000-05:00

My hubby and I took a few days last week and headed up North. South Haven sits on the shores of Lake Michigan and is absolutely one of the most beautiful places in the world. The temps were cool with lots of sunshine, except for the two hours of our sailing expedition! We started out with clear skies; but about 20 minutes into the trip we were able to watch the most amazing storm come in and chase us back to shore. I was too awestruck to be scared as I took in the awesomeness of God.

We also went for a dune buggy ride on the sand dunes. Another incredible experience as we learned about the lost town of Singapore, Michigan, buried in sand after clear cutting timber left a gaping hole on the shoreline back in the 1800s. 340 feet above Lake Michigan on a sand dune provided a breath-taking view of Lake Michigan.

Home

2007-08-12T16:59:00.001-05:00

Vacations are always much too short. Just as I was getting into the vacation mode it was time to pack up and come home. I think I need two weeks to be fully rested and ready for reality again. Home means back to more laundry than I know what to do with, meals, dishes, career, etc. - back to the grind. How I wish I could keep the simplicity of vacation at hand. No more clothes than absolutely necessary, simple meals, no set schedules, no ALARM CLOCK!!! :) Sigh . . .

Storms

2007-08-09T16:54:00.000-05:00

A most intense storm is making it's way over the Gulf this afternoon. The temps have been over the 100 degree mark all week - but a cooler air is blowing as thunder, lightening, and rain intensify. It's interesting to watch the raining driving into the water, adding to the fury of the waves. People scrambling in from their beach chairs, umbrellas flying, and children crying. The storm warning sirens have been sounding for the last 15 minutes lending to the sense of urgency to seek shelter. Of course, there are the teenage boys who find it hilarious to point out imaginary tornados, larger-than-life waves making their way inland, and the fact that water attracts lightening. I do question the sanity of men who keep their children in the pool because after all, "they are getting wet anyway." More than a few mothers are raising the eyebrow and the voice now that the lightening is more frequent. The cabana boys who tend to all the rental chairs and umbrellas are scrambling up the beach in order to secure everything from the impending storm. They have succeeded and are now high-fiving each other as they are drenched from the rain and heading indoors. Everyone needs one rainy day at the beach - it wouldn't be right without it.

A Gift from the Sea

2007-08-08T21:39:00.000-05:00

Yesterday morning I went for a walk. Our first full day at the beach and I vowed not to pick up any shells until the last day of vacation. In times past I felt the need to accumulate a multitude of shells. Large shells, small shells, broken bits and pieces, dark, light, round, swirling, fan-shaped – I needed them all to remind me of summer. The first summer I gathered a bright yellow pail full of shells and eventually placed them in a flower bed; a simple reminder of the sun-kissed days of summer. The following summer there was a small plastic baggie full of shells; these too, ended up in the flower bed. The next summer I chose two shells: one dark and one light – same size and shape. These are on my writing desk where I can see them, touch them, and dream of the warmth of the summer. This year I planned to wait until the last day and choose just the perfect shell. It was hard to walk along and not pick up one or two – there were so many just waiting for the touch of a human hand. But, no, I was waiting for the last day and the perfect shell to manifest itself on the beach – no digging, searching, seeking in the surf. Then, I spied it – larger than last years’ two contrasting shells – but the same shape. Perfect in every way, I bent to pick it up, held it in my palm and vowed to accept this gift.

Every summer I read Anne Morrow Lindbergh’s “Gift from the Sea.” This year I prefaced it with two books written by her daughter, Reeve Lindbergh. One, Reeve’s autobiography, Under A Wing, and the other, No More Words, written about her mother’s last years and her death at the age of ninety-four. Reading through “Gift from the Sea” this summer brings more insight than in years past; a certain understanding, a gentle knowing, a kinship that connects me to others. Perhaps it is the fact that I am reading it through older eyes now or that I am more of the age Mrs. Lindbergh was when she penned her thoughts. I sense a gentle aging, searching, connecting and releasing of who I was, who I am and who I am yet to become.

Vacation on the Gulf

2007-08-07T19:04:00.000-05:00

Thank God for the yearly family vacation! We seem to migrate back to the same spot each year. It has become a familiar place - a homecoming of sorts. A sense of peace and contentment with all things familiar. Same condo, same unit, same blue and red lobster chair that my girls think is hideously grand, same sugar sand, same sound of waves crashing on the beach, and hopefully the same two little boys, James and Gordon, that we have watched grow over the years. They are not here yet, but we are hoping that Gramps and Grandma will return to their unit this week with grandkids in tow.
Unfortunately, the same drunken LSU fans waving their LSU towels over their balcony. Where is our Tennessee orange? Anyway, I think most of them checked out on our second day here. Perhaps the pool will be a little more peaceful tonight.

Summer Travels

2007-07-18T19:50:00.000-05:00

I had a wonderful trip with the girls to Missouri. We explored Hannibal, the hometown of Samuel Clemens a.k.a. Mark Twain. We took a riverboat ride on the Mississippi, explored the Mark Twain cave, home, and museums and just enjoyed being together. In St. Louis we took in a Cardinals game, actually convinced ourselves to go to the top of the Arch, visited an art museum, and the Missouri History Museum, where we saw a replica of the "Spirit of St. Louis". It actually was the plane used in the movie starring Jimmy Stewart (for those who enjoy black & white film). The original plane flown by Charles Lindbergh is at the Smithsonian. Being a fan of Charles and Anne Morrow Lindbergh it was wonderful exploring the Lindbergh exhibit at the MHM.

St. Louis has way more to explore than a day or two will allow. We have decided that we need to make another trip or two in order to see everything. Another ballgame is a must - preferrably with seats!! Standing Room Only was all that we could get - so much for Bonds being in town going for the record! Sold out crowd. Once your legs go numb though it doesn't really matter - as long as your voice holds out - CHARGE!

Here's to the ones who made the trip so much fun. You ladies are awesome and I can't wait for another "girls' trip".

Where to next, ladies?

Pampered Me!

2007-06-19T20:28:00.000-05:00

My sweet hubby surprised me by preparing dinner tonight. He truly is the grill king! His Father's Day gift was a new Weber grill. Now I'm not one to care about the brand of grill, but he knew exactly what he wanted - a Weber charcoal grill. So, for Father's Day he got the grill, enough charcoal for the summer, and the Weber utensil set. Needless to say, I'm thrilled with his gift and his love of grilling.

Welcome to Detroit

2007-05-30T10:44:00.000-05:00

From DetroitFunk

DetroitFunk does some great music, photography, and blogging.

Check it out at www.detroitfunk.com

The Beginning of My Story

2007-05-19T08:55:00.000-05:00

Today is a day in which I truly need to honor my Mother. Forty-four years ago she gave life to me while almost losing her own. I was born pre-mature without a lot of chance to live. My Father told me the doctors made him choose which one to try and save - me or Mom? He told me how agonizing it was to actually wrap his thoughts around what they were asking. He also told me this while he was dying of cancer. We talked a lot about life and death in those months leading up to his death. He told me, with tears streaming down his face, that his answer to the doctors was to save my mother if at all possible. I completely understood. He had a wife and son and he also had two daughters from a previous marriage. Mom needed to live to be there for my brother and my dad. She needed to be there to continue to build a relationship with my sisters. God allowed both of us to live, grow, and experience life. I cherish the memories - good and bad - for it was life. My life. The beginning of my story.

Mothers Day

2007-05-13T16:57:00.000-05:00

I think that I have become an anti-holiday person - just read my Valentine's Day rant. So here goes on Mothers' Day. I'm all about honoring one's parents - that's biblical; but to set aside one day that demands you come up with a gift, etc. isn't what it's about. I've seen too many people hurt on days like these. Mothers who have lost children, children who have lost mothers, a mother's heart in a woman who is struggling to have children or can't have children. One beautiful woman in our church lost her mother and all her children in a tragic accident one year ago this month. Mother's Day is hell to her now.

I lost my mother 9 years ago. I miss her every single day. I wish I could call her (we used to talk every day - not just once a year because it was expected.) Mother's Day still hurts.

I have two extremely beautiful, loving daughters - they understand me or at least they try to most of the time anyway! - lol They honor me every day with their love and support, their generous spirits, and love for God. Give me a million of those days - not just once a year where the demand comes from the outside. Words do not express the love and admiration I have for Ericka and Lauren. It is beyond words. It is a holy, sacred thing. God giving me a glimpse of His love for me . . . and you.

Things I Love . . .

2007-05-12T17:11:00.000-05:00

. . . warm, sunny days

. . . gentle breezes

. . . my family

. . . my little dog - Poley

. . . reading

. . . friends

. . . relaxing on my porch

. . . sleeping on my porch swing

. . . Grace Community Church

The Varsity

2007-04-22T19:09:00.000-05:00

While in Atlanta we ate at The Varsity located downtown - a landmark in the area. This is the ultimate step back in time with dine-in or drive-in service - car hops, a tray on the side of your car window, old-fashioned burgers, chili dogs, onion rings (the best EVER) and their famous Orange Frosty! yum yum