The Quiet & The Quirky

Moving.....to another blog

2010-01-24T20:41:00.002-05:00

Hey all. Just letting you know that I am moving this blog to a new spot. I'll be updating more regularly....really, I will!!

Chris

Meandering Thoughts

2009-10-22T08:57:00.001-04:00

In our rush to get from one thing to the next, I often simply drive by those folks who are walking around in the downtown area of our city. No need to stare, as I am sure they get enough grief for looking a bit different than the rest of us. Their clothes aren’t as clean, their smell not as fresh, and simply the fact that they spend most of their day on a bench near the courthouse seems to set them apart of us. We tend to put these people in another category and dismiss much thought. Yet, today as I drove by I wondered if this is what this little boy or little girl dreamed of being when they were young? What were their dreams? Did they long to be a teacher and life dealt them a series of misfortunate events and now they teach the birds during the day, and talk to whoever will talk with them? What about those who are parents? Are they someone’s’ daddy or mommy and simply are unable to care for that child? Do they wonder and long for their child? Most convicting, though, is the fact that this person who I easily dismiss is loved by God, created by God for a purpose and is loved by his creator as much as I am. Who am I, then, to dismiss that person? Who am I to think I am better in any way? Sure, there are circumstances and choices and consequences, but none of that excludes anyone from being loved, respected, and simply being treated as a fellow human being, created by a Creator and loved by a Creator.

Kabul 24

2009-09-30T08:38:00.001-04:00

Kabul 24, a book by Henry Arnold and Ben Pearson, was an intense look at the days of captivity in 2001 of the 8 hostages from Shelter International (SNI) in Afghanistan. The team of 8 was working in Afghanistan on a humanitarian effort, not proselytizing unless someone asked why they believed in Jesus. It was encouraged to speak of religious things in Afghan society, so they were not seen as odd when they spoke of Jesus. As the tensions boiled toward 9-11-01, however, the Taliban began to see the SNI as a threat and captured the 8 workers, putting them in prison and interrogating them to confess to forcing the Muslims to convert to Christianity. After 9-11-01, there seemed to be very little hope for the workers in captivity, as Americans were taken out of Afghanistan and the threat of war with the US was imminent.

Throughout their time of captivity, the 8 continually look to God for their strength, for only He at times was their hope. This book documents time after time the perfect timing of God, and the ultimate truth that our only hope is in God. It also gives an inside look into the Afghan society before and after the Taliban were in power. Overall, I would recommend this book to anyone looking to see beyond the headlines of this story and to see how powerful our God is even when it seems there is no hope left.

The Call

2009-09-14T21:35:00.003-04:00

Each time my ipod sings me this song, I am always struck by the words. Such meaning. Such depth. You can take the words at face value, or take them deeper into the inner thoughts and struggles of life. We were all created with a purpose....what started as a feeling, grew into a hope, turned into a quiet thought, turned into a quiet word and continued to grow louder until it became your battle cry?

Songwriters: Spektor, Regina

It started out as a feeling
Which then grew into a hope
Which then turned into a quiet thought
Which then turned into a quiet word

And then that word grew louder and louder
'Til it was a battle cry

I'll come back
When you call me
No need to say goodbye

Just because everything's changing
Doesn't mean it's never
Been this way before

All you can do is try to know
Who your friends are
As you head off to the war

Pick a star on the dark horizon
And follow the light

You'll come back
When it's over
No need to say good bye

You'll come back
When it's over
No need to say good bye

Now we're back to the beginning
It's just a feeling and no one knows yet
But just because they can't feel it too
Doesn't mean that you have to forget

Let your memories grow stronger and stronger
'Til they're before your eyes

You'll come back
When they call you
No need to say good bye

You'll come back
When they call you
No need to say good bye

"His Name Is Jesus" by Max Lucado - A review

2009-09-09T08:24:00.001-04:00

I recently read Max Lucado’s book “His Name is Jesus.” Bound in a hard cover, and presented in a beautiful case, this book appeals to the reader from first glance. Once the pages are opened, the reader begins to discover a well- written account of the life of Jesus. Lucado presents the New Testament life of Jesus through simple, yet profound language, as well as beautiful graphics that further illustrate the powerful words. For someone reading the life and story of Jesus for the first time, or for someone who has been reading Scripture for years, Lucado writes “His Name is Jesus” in such a way that gives you a fresh insight into the words of Christ.

Sprinkled throughout the book are also powerful thoughts by Lucado that cause the reader to pause and truly reflect on what the Scripture said. For example, Lucado writes, “The world has never known a heart so pure, a character so flawless. His spiritual hearing was so keen He never missed a heavenly whisper. His mercy so abundant He never missed a chance to forgive. No lie left his lips, no distraction marred His vision. He touched when others recoiled. He endured when others quit." Overall, this is an excellent book to keep as a “coffee table” book, or a book to give away to those wanting to know more about this man named Jesus.

Slacker

2009-08-22T10:08:00.002-04:00

So, here it is the middle of August and I finally am writing. It seems my life keeps spinning in directions that I didn't expect, and then I spend my time racing to figure out how to 'handle' the spinning, only to have it change again! Three things have suffered as a result of this spinning - my writing, my blogging, and my reading.

I've had many thoughts and at least once per day I have thought -"oh, that would be a great blog post...." but alas, I never took the time to sit and write it.

Today, however, is a new day.

Schedules will begin soon in our house with the coming of the school year. It is always a 'fresh' time for me as I know I have a certain amount of hours per day where my children are at school and I can schedule life around these hours. Of course 100+ things are scheduled in this time, but that is another story.

This morning I awoke thinking of the responsibility that seems to ever increase as my children grow older. It is quite a fallacy that "when you children go to school, you can work full time and don't really have to 'take care' of them anymore as you did when they were not self sufficient." It is impressed upon me daily, it seems, that my actions and my availability when they are home is so so important. Yes, the hours are freer during the day so that I can work, but when I am home, I must be 'home' - mentally, physically, emotionally - and be 125% ready to hear about their day - their trials, their struggles, be their friend, be their encourager, be that unconditional love, and be the one that directs them to the One who will never leave them - their Heavenly Father.

"The Hole in the Gospel" by Richard Stearns

2009-04-27T14:07:00.001-04:00

“What I have discovered in my travels to more than forty countries with World Vision is that almost all poverty is fundamentally the result of a lack of options. It is not that the poor are lazier, less intelligent, or unwilling to make efforts to change their condition. Rather, it is that they are trapped by circumstances beyond their power to change.” A Hole in the Gospel by Richard Stearns takes the reader through a compelling journey – from the calling of Stearns to head World Vision to the adventures he has taken throughout the world as he brings the Gospel to life.

Stearns’ calling to head World Vision is a fascinating look at how God works out His details in our lives, regardless of our initial reaction to the calling. Stearns then takes the reader through the many words of Jesus telling His followers to help the poor, clothe those who are naked, and being the voice of justice for those who cannot defend themselves. Stearns recounts story after story of how the smallest assistance can have such a huge impact on third world countries and that we are not living out the Gospel if we neglect those who are not within the limited sphere of our daily lives.

Stearns’ book leaves the reader eager to put into action the words of Jesus Christ. He not only informs, but inspires the reader in the realization that the smallest type of assistance on our part can have the greatest impact for the Kingdom of God.

A Review of "The Noticer" by Andy Andrews

2009-04-27T13:53:00.002-04:00

Andy Andrews latest book, The Noticer, tells the story of a man named Jones and the people he helps. He teaches them about perspective and also teaches the reader how important it is to notice the little things of life.

Andrews takes the reader on an interesting journey through the stages of life. We meet a young man struggling with life and the unmet expectations he has experienced. We meet a couple on the brink of divorce. We meet an older lady who feels that she has lived past her usefulness. We meet a gentleman in the throes of depression. We meet some young folks who are contemplating marriage and want to know how to avoid the inevitable divorce it seems everyone reaches. We meet a young workaholic who cuts corners to make a profit and has begun to realize the ramifications of a bad reputation. Jones appears in each of their lives at a pivotal point and helps direct their path toward a better and fresh perspective on the circumstances of their life.

The story is entertaining and certainly teaches the value of having the right perspective on things, as well as paying attention to the little details in everyday life. The reader walks away with a greater appreciation of the ‘small stuff’ of life and how getting it right in the small stuff can have a great impact on our perspective of the bigger picture.

Utmost...

2009-04-20T14:15:00.005-04:00

Whether I like to admit it or not, the following passage has such truth in it in my life. Consider the words Oswald Chambers shares in "My Utmost for His Highest" on April 19. Read slowly and absorb.

"We are apt to say, "It is not at all likely that having been through the greatest crisis of my life I would now turn back to the things of the world." Do not try to predict where the temptation will come; it is the least likely thing that is the real danger. It is in the aftermath of a great spiritual event that the least likely things begin to have an effect. They may not be forceful and dominant, but they are there. And if you are not careful to be forewarned, they will trip you. You have remained true to God under great and intense trials— now beware of the undercurrent. Do not be abnormally examining your inner self, looking forward with dread, but stay alert; keep your memory sharp before God. Unguarded strength is actually a double weakness, because that is where the least likely temptations will be effective in sapping strength. The Bible characters stumbled over their strong points, never their weak ones.

". . . kept by the power of God . . ."— that is the only safety. ( 1 Peter 1:5 ).

Thursday Thoughts

2009-03-26T08:19:00.003-04:00

A few thoughts running across my mind these past few days....

The economy of late has been a bit shaky. We hear of people losing jobs, losing retirement money, and millions being spent on things that make most of us shake our heads. Whether we shake our heads in disgust or confusion is another matter. In some areas of the country, the economy slow down has affected nearly everyone. In other parts of the country, including where I live, it is noticeable, but hasn't slowed down the pace of things much.

It dawned on me yesterday, though, that my thinking has changed in one area, and I wonder if it is that way for many of us now. We constantly hear of folks losing their jobs - jobs that were thought to be secure. We all know the ebb and flow of life and the ups and downs of a job, regardless of how successful you are at your job. Now, however, I seem to be a bit more anxious when I hear of someone having a rough day at work. Instead of thinking - 'oh, just a rough patch, it'll be better tomorrow.' Now, I think - 'uh oh - is he/she going to lose their job?'

It is interesting to me that the panic and anxiety of our culture during this time has altered my thinking. Yet, one thing that hasn't altered is Who is in control. I am thankful that the God I serve is not surprised, He is not alarmed, and He knows the tomorrows. I can rest in Him.

"The steps of a man are established by the Lord; And He delights in his way. When he falls, he shall not be hurled headlong; Because the Lord is the One who holds his hand." Psalms 37:24

16 years

2009-03-13T17:35:00.002-04:00

Today I have been married 16 years. Approximately 5840 days. 140160 hours - give or take a few. It doesn't seem that long, but at times I don't remember not being married. I am so thankful for my husband. Thankful for the providence of our Lord in bringing us together and fitting us together in so many ways that we never even thought of. I can't imagine what the next 16 years hold, but I pray it'll be with my man right by my side.

A Movie Review - Skeeter and the Mystery of the Lost Mosquito Treasure

2009-03-13T15:14:00.009-04:00

Hermie and his friends are on another adventure. This movie is geared toward the younger crowd (10 and under), but was fun for the whole family to enjoy.

A famous adventurer, Sinclair M. Skeeto, the Third., is coming to visit his brother Skeeter and his friends. Skeeter has always been jealous of Sinclair because of his straight stinger. Sinclair, though, has always been envious of Skeeter's wings. In this adventure to find the lost treasure, the brothers learn to be thankful for their uniqueness. And, by working together, they solve the mystery and realize that God does not make mistakes when He creates things.

The movie includes a nice intro and conclusion from the creator of the animation - Max Lucado. He reminds the viewer of the Biblical truth behind the story. John O'Hurley and Tim Conway are the voices for the main characters and are a joy to listen to. The movie also includes a short clip entitled "Hermie's Favorite Nursery Rhymes" which is quite humorous. The bonus features are educational to watch and include how the movie was made, as well as questions reviewing the story-line.

Overall, it was refreshing to watch a movie that was not only entertaining, but educational and founded in Biblical truth.

An Invitation to Risk

2009-03-04T08:49:00.002-05:00

I recently read a book about relationships/God/life...you get the point. The author, Rob Bell, had some interesting points that made you ponder a few moments to first, think if it was accurate according to Scripture, and second, to wonder why you had never thought of it that way!

One of my favorite sub-titles was "An invitation to risk". The risk we are taking is in relationships. We risk a bit of ourselves when we begin a new relationship with someone. We wonder if they will still be our friend once they get to know us? If we share who we really are, will they still like us? Do we risk? Do we risk that relationship as we get to know them more and maybe, just maybe, have to love them through some tough times? And even scarier is the risk we take in developing that relationship and thinking that all is well, when suddenly the other person decides the maintenance of the friendship isn't worth it and simply walks away. Most likely we are not blameless in the 'walking away', but usually we are clueless to the inevitable end it seems to be heading toward.

Relationships are a risk in so many areas, but isn't that what Christ did? He truly risked it all to seek out a relationship with humanity, and how many times do I want to step away from the relationship when times are tough, or when I don't like the adventure He is taking me on? Yet, His love doesn't change, His desire to know me doesn't change, and ultimately my desire to cling to Him in those times, once I get through the risk factor, is heightened. In the end, the relationship is deeper and the trust is greater.

Thus, the invitation to risk will continue and I will continue to step out and risk, trusting my heart ultimately to the One who risked it all for me.

A Little Chuckle

2009-02-23T09:07:00.003-05:00

You know, sometimes there is a certain satisfaction when you write something and then someone else of a more famous sort writes about it too... :)

Click here to read about it.

Nagging Thoughts

2009-02-17T08:09:00.005-05:00

Today's post has been swirling around in my mind for a few days. Normally I have these 'swirlies' and eventually I don't take the time to sit down and write it, and it swirls away. These thoughts, though, are staying put. Thus, I am sitting and writing.

I have been thinking a bit about busy-ness.

I will be the first to admit that my life has gone through seasons where I am lucky to remember to brush my teeth at night before collapsing in bed, just to do the same thing again the next day. And, I will also be the first to admit that many times, I made poor choices that led to this craziness in my life. The irony, as it always seems to be, is that none of these choices were 'bad' decisions, or 'bad' things to do. They were all good things. However, they were only as good as good can be when you are neglecting those to whom you are called to serve first - God and your family.

Several years ago, my husband and I were headed down a path of busy-ness that neither of us had anticipated, yet we simply saw no way out without making some drastic decisions. At that point in our life, I wasn't sure how to do that. How do you tell someone 'no' when they are asking you to do such a good thing? Yet at the same time our three children, all under the age of 6, were being left behind at times (not literally...) simply because they were not old enough to ask!

And you know what happened - the Lord moved us out of the state. It was unexpected but both my husband and I also expected it because we knew things were reaching a point that we would lose control of what matters most. That move taught us to measure the 'asks' against what the priorities in our life were. The big priorities - God, family, each other - didn't change. However, sometimes our available time did and we would have to measure decisions against that. At other times, we would need to just say no if we weren't clear of what the expectations were as far as time and commitment. And, ironically enough, people noticed that. We never told anyone this is what we were doing, but suddenly people would approach us and thank us for not just saying 'yes' when they asked, but saying that we needed to talk to our husband/wife, and simply saying we needed to pray out it. They knew that when we said 'yes' we said 'yes'. We were living out 'let your yes be a yes and your no be a no."

Getting back to my original point - busy-ness. According to the worlds view, our culture tells that it is okay to be busy - we are almost applauded and expected to answer 'i am soooo busy' when people ask us how we are doing! Imagine the answer if instead of saying 'i've been so busy' we say 'i have been enjoying playing with my kids and catching up with my friends." I would do a double-take on that one!!!

Yet, what does Scripture teaches us? What did Jesus model for us during His time on earth. He- the Creator, Lord, Savior, Friend, Shepherd, Healer, All-knowing God - could have used the busy excuse and would have been completely accurate. BUT He always took the time to listen to those in front of Him, to explain many of the same things over and over to His disciples, to develop relationships and follow up on them. He also knew when enough was enough and confidently said He needed to be by himself for a little while. And, this was okay.

I have a lot to learn about prioritizing my life. There are so many attractive things out there than can fill the quiet times. There are many 'good' things I could be doing, but at the sacrifice of whom? At the end of each day, I pray that I would be able to say that I prioritized my life around what matters most to our Savior, that I was able to say "wherever I am, I was all there" and I didn't just react to the many things that inevitably came my way and tell someone I was too busy to share life with them.

Contrarian's Guide to Knowing God....spirituality for the rest of us

2009-02-09T13:38:00.004-05:00

I just finished reading the forementioned book by Larry Osborne. Very thought provoking. Thought I would share a few of my favorite moments in the book:

"Contrarian thinking at its best simly asks, "Is that really true?" And it speaks up when the politically correct answer or conventioanl wisdom doesn't match reality - when things don't work the way everyone says they do or thinks they do."

"To overcome the impact of that static, and to free up the Spirit to do His work, we have a role to play. It's not a matter of digging deep to produce our own spiritual growth. It's more in line with being willing to let go of our own agenda and allowing him the freedom to genuinely change us from the inside out."
"Am I really willing to let God change me? Really change me? Not just empower me to do his will, not just show me his will, but actually change - from the inside out - how I feel and what I want?"
"The Greek word translated as "faith" in our Bibles has nothing to do with a powerful imagination, eradicating doubt, or any other form of mind over matter. It has nothing to do with feelings or mental imagery. It has to do with obedience."
"The fact is, God has given most of us a passion and gifts for only a few things. When we follow those passions and hone those gifts, we end up doing exactly what we were made to do."
Proverbs 21:30-31 "There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the Lord. The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but the victory rests with the Lord."
If the master asks me to serve his family by making sure his guests are well fed, it doesn't matter if I have the gifts to be a virtuoso, I belong in the kitchen, not the concert hall."

Quote for the Day

2009-02-03T09:38:00.004-05:00

I came across this quote in a book I am reading by Doug Fields - ReFuel. The chapter was about worry and he stated that the opposite of worship was worry. Think about that for a moment.

The opposite of worship is worry

Nothing more to be said....

A Slow Fade

2009-02-03T09:18:00.002-05:00

Once again, a song and its' lyrics speaks to me more than lots of sermons and readings.... amazing how music can do that.

The song is called "Slow Fade" by Casting Crowns. The video is on youtube as well, and just as moving. To summarize, the song is about the choices we make - big to small- and how they can all domino into something drastic if we aren't careful. The choices mainly talked about in the song relate to sexual immoraltiy, however, how many other things does that relate to? Here are some of the words:

The journey from your mind to your hands
Is shorter than you’re thinking
Be careful if you think you stand
You just might be sinking

It’s a slow fade when you give yourself away
It’s a slow fade when black and white have turned to gray
Thoughts invade, choices are made, a price will be paid
When you give yourself away
People never crumble in a day
Daddies never crumble in a day
Families never crumble in a day

I can think of many things that I have simply adjusted a bit to make them no longer black and white, but rather gray. It is much easier to sin when you aren't sure if it is the wrong choice or not, rather than knowing it is the wrong choice. I think one of the most striking thoughts is simply that people never crumble in a day. It isn't usually one major choice made...rather it is a slow series of smaller choices that lead to the crumbling. It is a slow fade.

As Christ-followers, how do we prevent this? We cannot, but our Savior can. He can change our will and He can change our desire, but only when we ask and trust and believe He will. In Phillipians 2:12-13 Paul states:

So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absense, work out your salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure."

No where is it said our lives as Christ-followers will be easy. No where is it said that temptation will not follow us, thrill us, or be attractive to us. However, we follow a God who knows us to our core, created us for His pleasure and without His sacrifice of His Son on the cross dying for our sins, we would be sentenced to an eternity in Hell separated from His indescribable love. And for me, to follow His ways is worth every moment in knowing He can see all, do all, know all, and loves me beyond my comprehension.

Just thoughts

2009-01-05T08:13:00.002-05:00

I am often surprised how a simple song, a certain smell, or even a piece of clothing can elicit such memories. There is one song I hear than immediately takes me back to the airplane, flying from Nairobi to Amsterdam. In my mind, I am there when I hear this song and if I close my eyes, I almost feel like i am there as well and have to remind myself that I am not.

There is another song that immediately brings me back to when I was dating Dean and we were apart for the summer - he in Alaska and me in California. I spent many hours on the lifeguard stand at the camp in California and each time this song comes on, I am there on the stand, dreaming of Dean.

There is a shirt that I haven't worn for 2 years - not because it doesn't fit, but because of the significance of what happened the last time I was wearing it.

There are many smells that draw memories- a certain candle reminds me of the time Dean killed a mouse in the wall of our home in Wake Forest, and you can imagine what smells happen to a dead mouse in the wall for a few days.

Isn't our Lord good to give us 5 senses to remember things? Yet, I must remember to "be" where I am. I am where I am and where the Lord needs me to be, and as a Jim Elliot quote goes, we must "BE present" wherever we are.

My special plant

2008-12-24T13:26:00.003-05:00

I received a Christmas cactus as a parting gift when we finished up our Motherwise Bible study in Raleigh. The year - 2003. I do not have a green thumb and tend to kill anything that is green, no matter how much care I give it.

This cactus was a special gift to me and has lived through 5 moves....being left out in the frozen cold.....being "pruned" twice and I thought for sure it was D-E-A-D.

2 years ago, it bloomed and I was so excited - I didn't kill it!! Then, last year it never bloomed. So, my hopes were low for this year, as I had to prune it again at the end of the summer when things were looking bleak.

But, guess what! It is Christmas and somehow, someway, it knows it is time to bloom. And, it has bloomed. This year is a different color than the blooms 2 years ago.

Such sweet memories this plant brings me. It reminds me of the time when my children were 1, 3, and 5. It reminds me of the ministry that Judy and I poured into in Raleigh, but that ministry is no longer there. It was for a season, just as this plant blooms for a season and the rest of the year leaves me wondering if it'll bloom again!

It has been Quiet...

2008-12-17T10:00:00.003-05:00

Hello. I've been quiet for a while.... sorry about that. It isn't that I haven't written about 100 posts in my head, but it is simply that i haven't sat down to write. I hope to get better....

For now I will share a quote that came across my email. Rick Warren said this at the church he serves at - Saddleback church.

>“We don’t need to change what we believe. We need to change how we behave. It’s not creeds or deeds. I didn’t say that. It’s creeds and deeds. You say you believe. Show me your beliefs by what you do. What I am not is a fundamentalist. You become a fundamentalist when you stop listening. There are all kinds of fundamentalists. I don’t happen to agree with any of them.”

Makes you think, huh?

Wondering Wednesday

2008-10-29T20:06:00.003-04:00

Our girls came home today to tell us that they had a Code 700 drill. "Really," I said. "What is that?" I then heard in great detail how they learned what to do if there was an intruder/gunman at the school, how they let the police know they were okay, what would happen if they opened the door, etc. I thought to myself - "wow - what ever happened to just a simple tornado drill." It makes me sad to think that preparing for an evil intruder is a part of life in school now. The girls and I discussed it some more and then we prayed that they would never be a part of any situation where they would need to use their "code 700" skills.

____________________________________

So, is it just me, or does anyone else think it is absolutely insane, almost bordering on "way too far out there" as to how much money the candidates are spending? They say Obama is paying 3-5 million tonight for 30 minutes of primetime airtime. Does anyone think about how THAT could help the economic crisis? The poverty in many 3rd world countries? Heck, that is probably almost their years budget in some places. Many countries YEARLY individual income equals to $30 in American money. I just don't understand how someone, on either side, can spend that much money simply advertising themselves. If they were "worthy" of the candidacy, shouldn't that show up in their character? Shouldn't it show up in how they have proven themselves in the past? Shouldn't it be something that money can't buy?

Ah, just my two cents tonight....

Two funnies....

2008-10-27T13:40:00.002-04:00

Okay, so the first is only funny because I can truly laugh at myself over this and my "frugal" ways.... I am getting ready to make pumpkin pudding and remember that I have evaporated milk in the pantry. This milk isn't new, as I remember moving it here in June, but I didn't think it was that long ago and it is canned, so no big deal, right? Just to be sure, though, I checked the date on the bottom of the can...... "October 2004". Would you believe I moved these same cans of evaporated milk from Raleigh to Virginia Beach (three times in Virginia BEach) to Camden? I would have never believe that unless I saw the date with my own eyes.

And, the latest and greatest from You tube....

Meandering Monday

2008-10-13T20:30:00.002-04:00

Just another Monday here, but it was not as rushed as some Monday's and for that I am thankful. The girls and I were having a discussion in the car today and it dawned on me that my youngest daughter will be 8 next year. 8.....8.....and i am still trying to buy her 5/6 clothes......Case in point - we went shopping at a local sale this weekend and the pants I picked out for my OLDEST daughter fit my youngest.

What happened? Where did that time go? And, did I cherish it? Wish it away? Dread going through it? I certainly hope not, yet I know time will only continue to speed forward and I need to hold on tight - hold on to the moments with my children, hold on to my Savior and continually seek wisdom in all situations, hold on to my husband as these days zoom by and we hardly spend time together, and hold on to my own sanity and make sure I keep time to stay sane!

And to you, my friends - Hold on and cherish......

Just in case you ever wondered....

2008-10-02T06:39:00.002-04:00

Do you ever have one of those days where you think "this has to only happen to me..." So that you don't feel so alone, let me give you a glimpse into my morning....it is only 6:30 am....

Today was the big day to take my daughter and parents to the airport, which is an hour from our house. The day begins at 4 with my alarm NOT going off, but thankfully someone was up so that woke me up. Then, my husband asks if I have checked the pressure in the tires...no. He goes to check and tells me the PSI is at 5. Hum. So, he fills it up with our little portable air compressor. Then, we are off! I, however, really only have enough gas to get there. My day was crazy the day before and I did not have a moment to fill up with gas. So, we are going and going and going and of course, I take the wrong way on the Interstate. So, instead of heading to the airport i am headed to Raleigh! Thankfully I realized it only after going over the huge bridge. So, we turn around. We arrive at the airport and all goes smoothly for check in. My daughter and i rush in a cup of hot chocolate as the grandparents anxiously await going through security. We both cry and i watch my oldest daughter go on a trip for the very first time on an airplane, and without her parents. Now, that in itself is traumatic enough! :)

I leave the airport, charging my dollar fee to my bank card since my daughter had all the cash (is this a sign of things to come??). I find a gas station, which is only $0.30 more than the 10 I passed already that were closed......I finally get to the exit I need for coffee and take the wrong one...finally turn around and make it to Panera, which happens to just have opened. Yeah! I order my coffee and bagel, and wouldn't you know it - I spill the coffee all over the bagel on my tray.

So, we will call my day one of those that I will remember for a little while, if not only for all of the "ughs" but also for watching my daughter go on her own (even though she is with grandma and grandpa). It is a new adventure for all of us, and in some ways it is the beginning of what we have prepared her for in all the years gone by.

So the next time you have one of "those" days, just know I feel your pain!!

An Observation

2008-09-18T13:59:00.003-04:00

Maybe it is because my kids are passed this stage, maybe it is because I am older and "wiser," or maybe it is just because I pay attention more, but I have been exposed to a lot of parents/children at our local stores yelling at their kids. Now, it simply isn't "Hey- don't do that!" It is more of a "If you don't stop that I am going to beat your butt......" It doesn't matter where we are, what part of town I am in, or even what the supposed socio-economic status I can glean from just glancing at someone, which usually doesn't tell you much anyway. The kids are normally just wanting attention and want the adult in their life to reply to their first question. Or, it may be that they have succeeded before in their 25th whine and scream giving them the toy they want. Whatever it may be, it breaks my heart to hear moms and dads screaming and yelling at their kids telling them how they are going to "beat their butt" or "spank you so you won't forget." What is the point? Are they really going to do that when they get home? And honestly, does a 2 year old throwing a tantrum understand the ramifications of "beat your butt?"

Now, I am the first to admit I have been so so close to losing it in a store, especially when the girls were little. But, the words that I hear said now never entered my thoughts. Why? Because of the fear of one wrong person hearing me say spank and then having to justify to someone any type of discipline we have had to use on our kids. And, because of the responsibility I have been given to raise these children in a Godly home. Certainly, beating and "not forgetting it" are not words that are spoken in love with the intent to help our child along this journey of life. I have no idea the life situations of these moms and dads I hear, and I imagine they are possibly in a hard situation. And, maybe they don't mean what they are saying - maybe it is what they always heard as a kid and it doesn't sound as bad as it is, and I am sure they do love their children. Even so, as a stranger journeying through life with them, it just breaks my heart.

So, each time I hear these frustrated and angry people at the store, in the park, or in the parking lot, I say a prayer. A prayer of protection for that child, and a prayer of patience and a saving knowledge of our Lord in which they will truly see the patience of our God who puts up with us daily, knows our deepest sin, yet still sent his own Son to die for us so that we could have a relationship with Him. If that doesn't put life in perspective, I am not sure what will....

Some things...

2008-09-16T13:54:00.003-04:00

There are just some things that go straight to the core- straight to the heart and soul of me. And, no matter what I do to protect myself or try to NOT react and NOT feel a certain way, I do. Case in point - Kenya. I am still unclear if it is the country or just the opportunity to serve in a third world country. But, my reaction to any time I see pictures from our trip, hear others talking about opportunities to serve on a mission trip, or just plain see people who even went on that trip, my heart beats a little faster and my mind begins to anticipate another time....or another place....and I so easily mentally float back to those thoughts and images that were so unique, so special, and so soul stirring to me.

For now though, I keep those thoughts and dreams, and know that our Lord is calling me to today. He calls us to what is directly in front of us and I remind myself that I am to be in the here and now for my children, for my husband, for my friends, and for any of those I meet along this adventure called life. We never know how who we meet or what we say or where we are will impact our future - but my God does and that is why I will always trust Him.

Over my head

2008-09-15T11:28:00.002-04:00

There are some songs that touch you deep, or I should say touch "me" deep. This is one that Dean found and shared with me. It is by Brian Littrell:

Over My Head lyrics

I tried to figure it out
Time and time again and time again
I guess there's just some things I'll never understand
'Cause Your ways aren't our ways
But deep down in my soul, down in my soul
There is one thing I know that I know

I'm in over my head
Right where I wanna be
I'm so lost within Your love
The love that always covers me
So high, so deep, so wide
A strong and cleansing tide
My soul has found a place to rest
I'm in over my head

I've been holding on
Now I'm letting go, just letting go
Gonna let Your love carry me away
I don't know where I'm going
But I'm surrounded by the truth
And I can feel the current pulling me
Deeper into You

I'm in over my head
Right where I wanna be
I'm so lost within Your love
The love that always covers me
So high, so deep, so wide
A strong and cleansing tide
My soul has found a place to rest
I'm in over my head

You see me for who I am
You did reach out Your hand
You made me understand
That Your love has always covered me

Absolutely NOT my favorite place...

2008-09-10T15:34:00.002-04:00

So as you know, we are in smaller town. With that being said, the largest and most efficient way to shop is at the Super Walmart. I have tried - I really have - to be open minded about it. But, enough is enough. I can now say I extremely extremely dislike that place. Whether it be for their work practices, their hiring policies, their quality, or just their bad lighting........ i don't like it. There are few choices in this town, with Walmart being on top of the classy places to go. But, I AM DONE. I have now begun the official count on this blog of how many days I can go without shopping at Walmart, even if that means going without, or waiting a week to go up to Target and Harris Teeter, which ironically enough are cheaper for me.

You see, I am a bargain hunter and coupon shopper. I shop according to the ads and can shop at Harris teeter for less than Walmart. The key is being able to plan our meals around what is on super-duper sale at HT. If you shop there randomly or just run in to get a few things, it isn't cheaper. BUT I am a woman on a mission and a woman with a plan.

And do you know what strikes me as the funniest? Every day i hear at least one woman tell me, or another woman, how much she hates Wal-mart but still goes because there are no other options. Maybe I'll begin to petition Target.........

Just a short political post

2008-09-09T08:54:00.002-04:00

I have always like Newt Gingrich - maybe it was his name, maybe it is his intelligence...who knows. I saw this on another friends blog and thought it was worth sharing....it makes me laugh every time....

Randomness

2008-09-07T20:26:00.004-04:00

Many times I have wanted to post and many times those thoughts left me. So, we will call this randomness....a few random thoughts.....

______________________________________________________

The political season is upon us and it has been quite interesting now that Sarah P. is in the race. On either side of the ticket, it always adds a bit of American politics to it when there is something unexpected. So, I look forward to what is to come. My vote for the November ticket has already been decided and we will see who the Lord puts into power. Either way, He will direct the channels of their heart, and the results of their leadership.

____________________________________________________

People still surprise me at times. I think as I have gotten older I thought I would understand more, but rather I think I have begun to just understand that so many things aren't understandable...they just are. And, my choice is how I react to it. Do I get mad? Do I get bitter? Do I rant and rave and bite back? Or, do I turn the other cheek? Do I let it go and move on? The right thing to do is always the right thing to do, but sometimes it is hard to do it when my mind is screaming at me to get mad and get even!! Maybe one day I will be one of those people who humbly always replies in the right tone with the right response, but there is such truth in the response that when the other person thinks about it, they realize it is equivalent to a verbal smack!

__________________________________________________________

I hope to post more. I want to record my thoughts. I know most of the time they will probably be serious, but so it goes. Rarely can I complete a thought around here without someone interrupting me, so I will consider this my place to complete my thoughts. And, if they go on and on, then so be it!!

Famous?

2008-07-29T22:20:00.002-04:00

I have had so many posts written in my head, but they never seem to make it to my fingers to type onto the computer! And, of course, when I finally sit down and tell myself that I am going to write about this or that, I lose all inspiration!!!

I recently read in a book by Gary Thomas entitled Sacred Parenting. This is an excellent book that causes many moments of 'I never thought about it that way.'

One of these thoughts included being famous. I am unsure how I came to think that I would one day be famous, but maybe somewhere in the back of my mind I wanted recognition for something great I had done, or something great I will one day do. So, my day to day aspirations, whether consciously or subconsciously, would often in some way lean toward this goal - being recognized for something by someone!

When I read the following statements by Thomas, I paused. Thomas pointed out that "only one in ten billion of us will ever be remembered by history. There will always be the occasional Cleopatras and Napoleons recalled by later generations, but of the billions of people alive on earth today, less than one-half of one percent will be remembered 200 years from now." He goes on a bit about percentages and chances of being famous/remembered, and then makes the following profound statement (at least profound for me):

"When I embrace my historical insignificance, I am set free to concentrate on very real - and eternal - relational significance. I matter to my wife (husband). I am very important to my children. I have secure standing as an adopted son (daughter) of the Most High God. These are the relationships on which I want to focus my life. This is where I want to spend my energy."

Wow. May that encourage you in your walk with our Savior and encourage you in your day to day walk, spending time and energy on those things of most importance.

A Brief One

2008-07-18T11:13:00.002-04:00

Just a brief note today. I read this quote and thought it was so applicable to a lot of different aspects of life - whether your personal life, emotional aspect of life, spiritual growth, and even your professional life.

"What lies behind us and what lies before us are small matters compared to what lies within us." Ralph Waldo Emerson

A Funny at the Library

2008-07-11T21:17:00.002-04:00

Okay - before I write this out you need to know I am not making fun of anyone. This is just something that happened at the library and it was rather funny to me considering the circumstances.

There is a section at our library that is along one wall that has all the new books. I went over to browse and there was a gentleman in the middle shelving area, holding what looked to be a cane. On the other side of him was another woman, and so I began looking to the left of this gentleman. The area was big enough for all three of us.

Just as I begin to scan, the gentleman steps to his left and slides himself directly in front of me - between me and the books. He seems oblivious that I am there. I think "what, am I invisible??". I then look down at the 'cane' and it looks like a cane, but a special one. It looked like the "walking stick" type cane a blind person uses. So, for one brief moment I think "Oh, he can't see me so of course he didn't know I was there." But, think about that for a minute. What is wrong with this picture??

If he can't see me, how in the world is he looking at the books?

The Writer

2008-06-28T11:44:00.002-04:00

I was at Bible Study this past week and one of my friends said "How is your book going?" I thought to myself - how did she know I have always wanted to write a book? After a few more questions, I realized she was talking about this blog! :)

I have missed posting. I have missed the quiet times I can sit and reflect. My days have been filled with quirky. It has taken longer than I anticipated to feel settled, but hey - what else is new! The finding of the house didn't go as expected, yet it is perfect for us. The kitchen is certainly not being re-done as easily as we thought, but the end result will be awesome. DH has done such an amazing job with it.

I am finally getting back into a routine of my quiet time, which I have so sorely missed. However, today I wanted to share with you the words of a song I heard. It is called "Empty Me" by Chris Sligh. I hope they speak to you as they did to me:

I've had just enough of the spotlight when it burns bright
To see how it gets in the blood.
And I've tasted my share of the sweet life and the wild ride
And found a little is not quite enough.
I know how I can stray
And how fast my heart could change.

Empty me of the selfishness inside
Every vain ambition and the poison of my pride
And any foolish thing my heart holds to
Lord empty me of me so I can be filled with you.

I've seen just enough of the quick buys of the best lies
To know how prodigals can be drawn away.
I know how I can stray
And how fast my heart could change.

Empty me of the selfishness inside
Every vain ambition and the poison of my pride
And any foolish thing my heart holds to
Lord empty me of me so I can be filled with you.

Cause everything is a lesser thing
Compared to you, compared to you.
Cause everything is a lesser thing
compared to you. So, I surrender all!

Empty me of the selfishness inside
Every vain ambition and the poison of my pride
Empty me of the selfishness inside
Every vain ambition and the poison of my pride
And any foolish thing my heart holds to
Lord empty me of me so I can be
Lord empty me of me so I can be filled with you.
Oh, filled with you.
Empty me.

An update

2008-06-12T14:13:00.002-04:00

Yes, major lack of posting. But, a few tips for you I learned from packing and cleaning an entire 2000 square foot house....

(1) The ABC store has fantastic boxes. You only need to tape the top when you are done, as they are well put together since they usually hold liquor!

(2) 409 Cleaner is the way to go. I took layers and layers of dirt off of the bathroom floor and kitchen with a mixture of 409 and water.

(3) The trick to keeping that dirt up was to use a rag to dry the spot with that I just 409'd. I realized all those other times I had mopped and let the water dry on its own, I essentially just put another layer of dirt on there.

(4) The other fantastic thing was using a sponge that had one soft side and another "no scratch" rougher side. Amazing what a mixture of 409 and this sponge did.

(5) Clorox 4 in 1 was great for the bathrooms. It not only took the scum off, the mildew off, but also left a shine. During our walk through, the landlord said she had never seen the shower that clean (it has an old plastic/glass type door on it).

(6) It is a completely valid excuse to keep your child home from school to help you clean, especially when she loves to do it!

(7) If your kids can put things in a box and distinguish breakable from non-breakable, then they can pack their own room.

(8) Another thing about kids - they are closer to the baseboards than you are, so let them polish the baseboards with Pledge and your floors and walls will look twice as clean.

(9) Forget paper towles and forget anything but name brand glass cleaner. The only thing that worked for us was Glass Plus and newspaper to wipe it off. No streaks.

(10) And finally, it is truly a gift to the next person buying/renting your home when you leave it cleaner than the way you found it. Consider it an aspect of your witness of who you are in Christ.

The thing I don't like to do

2008-06-01T21:34:00.002-04:00

So, with this impending move, you would think I should get all of our files in order. You know, I need to file away the credit card statements, bank statements, etc. etc. However, there is just one thing I don't like to do - file. I don't mind filing work related things, but stuff in regards to our home I seem to have a mental block on. I just pile it here, and then pile it there, and then repile it there. I am not sure what my deal is, but never the less, it has always been that way. I am a fairly organized person, so consider this my little quirk!

Now - the funny part. So, I decided to just sit down and do the filing so it would all be done when we move. I gather the papers from three separate piles and begin to sort. We have three filing cabinets, each organized differently. Alas, I open one of the drawers and guess what file is staring at me ? The file that says "Need to file." Ah HA! Saved from filing.... I promptly file all of my papers into the "need to file" file, shut the drawer and I am done!!! yipppeeeee (for today...) :)

You know you should stop staring at the computer when...

2008-05-27T10:14:00.002-04:00

...nothing is straight. So - I either need another cup of espresso, a nap, a head straightening, or a new computer. I have been working on flow charts for work and I have spent the past two hours editing them. Now, it seems when I look at the flow charts, all of the lines are slanted. My computer says they are straight and they line up with the "straight" arrow....but my head must be crooked. I think I'll make an espresso and maybe that will put my head back on straight....or maybe I just need a break from myself!

Sunset

2008-05-21T08:14:00.002-04:00

We live in an area with beautiful sunrises and beautiful sunsets. Yet, many many many days I rarely take the time to really look outside and enjoy the creation around me. Yesterday we had a big thunderstorm with black clouds, lots of wind, a little bit of hail, and plenty of rain. After the storm had passed, the sunset was amazing. Of course, I happened to glance at the right time to catch it and thought "Go outside and enjoy." So, I grabbed the camera and took these pics with different settings on the camera. We will be moving soon, so these sunsets will still be beautiful, but my view may not be as perfect as it was last night. Truly, our God paints the sky.

Some things never change....

2008-05-16T16:16:00.003-04:00

One of my daughters is having a small birthday party this afternoon. She invited a few friends over and they are currently outside playing. It is so funny to me how having a 10 year old tell me "your house is cool and I really like it" makes me feel good. It is like I am transported back to high school when you always wanted your friends to want to come to your house because it was cool and you always had fun. Funny funny funny. I just think I am getting older and wiser, huh.... ;)

Another Book

2008-05-12T14:02:00.002-04:00

I just finished reading the book Escape by Carolyn Jessop. What a fascinating, appalling and revealing book. The book is about a woman who was in the FLDS and "escaped" with her 8 children. The timeliness of reading it after the recent raid on the FLDS camp in Texas made it even more compelling, as this woman was there at that compound. I won't give away the whole book, but I must say I couldn't put it down, as it seemed to get stranger and more extreme as the book went on.

One of the main "take aways" from the book for me was the fact that no one and no thing can replace what the word of God says. The Bible contains the truth - not a human's interpretation or a good non-fiction book. It is the Bible. Our ladies group just studied the book "Moving Beyond the Myths" by Jan Silvious and her tag line throughout the book was

"Where is it written?"

Where does the Bible say that? Where do you get that philosophy from? If you can't back it up with the whole of Scripture - not just a verse out of context- then I am not sure you are speaking a truth.

On another note, we are in the process of moving from one state to another. The move has been on the horizon for about the past 6 months, so it is good to finally be closer to the end. However, as this end gets closer, my time of quietness and quirkiness seems to be farther and farther apart. I look forward to being in our new home with my own office/desk and enjoying the quiet again.

Hanging Around

2008-05-04T20:47:00.002-04:00

I am still hanging around. I think often of what to write and it is always serious! My DH often tells me that I need a little adventure in my life, or I need to go out there and do something fun. I then tell him that he takes enough risks for the both of us playing goalie for an ice hockey team and surf kayaking....

In that same thought, though, I think of funny things I want to write about, and then I am at a loss. I do laugh during the day, but mainly at the antics of my children. They are funny, but it is all in the moment and the context of what is going on in our life.

A funny story from the past - we were talking one afternoon about movies and I mentioned that the girls were fine watching G movies with their friends, or when they were over at someones house. But, if it was a PG movie, I needed to know about it and see if it was appropriate or not. My youngest then said - "so, you mean we just have to wear our PJ's to watch a movie? " She was so serious and at that time, she pronounced her nighttime clothing as "peejees." So, movie time was simply sit and watch it in her play clothes, or watch it in her pajamas. Ah, if life were only that simple.

Books- Part 2

2008-04-21T12:45:00.004-04:00

If you haven't read Part 1 below, be sure to read it before you read this post.

Where did we leave off? Our main character was at a cross roads. And, what was her choice? As you probably figured out, she chose to stay away from her family and take the attraction one step further.......and had an affair. She "re-discovered" herself in his arms and her family was far far away in her mind.

Now, the next real conflict is about to occur. What is she going to do when her family gets back? Is this going to be a once in a lifetime 'oops' or is this now who she is?

Her husband and sons return home early from their trip to Disney to surprise her. She has changed, but no one is aware of the affair. In my mind, there is still hope for the family. They can realize their differences, reconcile them, save their marriage and their family. The 'troubles' to begin with were not so dreadful that they could not be overcome. Instead, though, she chooses to get out of the marriage, raise her sons on her own and a month later she meets up with her ex-husband and he already has a girlfriend. Her suave young man ended the affair and got married to his pregnant girlfriend.

Yes- quick ending, but by the time I read the author's final pages, I was about to throw the book. I was amazed at how so many other things were never addressed? Lets see - mainly the children! There is no comment on the effect of this on them. Secondly, the author has taken selfishness to another level. It was all about the main character and (gasp) how she has sacrificed so much as a mom and husband and now it was her turn to be who she wanted to be - irregardless of who it affected. Thirdly, there is never an idea portrayed that marriage is a permanent thing. If it doesn't 'fit' your lifestyle anymore, than it is okay to get out.

I know this is a fiction book, but I was surprised at how far from reality this book was. Is this what our culture now believes? And, how can anyone live in that state of "well, if I find someone else who meets my needs more than this person, then I can get out of the marriage." Most of all, though, i think what disturbed me the most was how the author used some truth in creating this story. Does every woman enjoy being complimented or found attractive? Yes, and every man for that matter. Does every woman married for 15 years with 2 children have moments of 'ahhhhh- what happened to me??' Yes, and most men probably do as well. Does every woman sometimes wish she could take a break for just a couple of days from her life? Most likely. But, many of those women also realize the gifts they have been given in a husband who loves them, and children they have been blessed with. When those things are forgotten, the worldly ways so easily entice and our perspective can become so skewed. They are baby steps to a life of twisted truths and it is a daily decision to keep your eyes on the One who is all truth and all good, even in those moments of 'ahhhh'.

Thanks for listening to my quirky moment for the week... :)

Books - Part 1

2008-04-17T09:44:00.003-04:00

I have been writing this post for a while in my head and each time it gets longer.....so I am going to try and make it as concise as possible. :)

First, let me tell you I love to read. My degree is in English, but not because of my love of classic literature - it is due to my fascination with grammar and sentence structuring. Needless to say, though, I love to read books that entertain and enlighten, not necessarily ones that I can mark off as "I read a classic." With that in mind, my checklist for a good book includes one that is engaging quickly, does not have too many plot lines going at the same time, little or no vulgar language, and maybe one or two romance scenes. If it is Christian fiction - great. If it is a mystery without too much violence and gore - great. If it is a "beach read" - great. I have read enough books I don't like to say way too many times - "I need to write a book!"

Now you have the background of me and my mental choices for a book. Thus, I faced a dilemma on our recent trip out of town. Play off hockey is on tv right now, so that means my evenings are not full of conversation with DH, rather they usually include a good book. So, here we were in another town where I could not check out a book to read and I had to buy one and buy one at a cheap price, as the likelihood is very high that I will only read this once and then give it away. So, after many many perusals through the used book store, I chose one. The back page summary of the book gave the plot line as a woman in a type of middle age crisis and several events were occurring in her life that made her question who she was and where she wanted to go. It sounded good and met my mental checklist - not much language, a little romance, a bit of mystery, and definitely an easy read.

I spent the next two days reading this book, anxiously trying to get to the end to see how the "conflict" was resolved........What, you ask, was the story really about? Essentially, the woman had been married for 15 years and had 10 year old twin boys. The marriage had fizzled a bit and there wasn't much communication between the spouses. In an effort to become a family again, the woman planned a big trip to Disney for a month (A MONTH!!) for the family to bond. At the last minute and due to way too many details to include for you, she was unable to go and sent her husband and kids on ahead with the intention of joining them a few days later. Fast forward a few chapters, and the woman has now randomly met a handsome, suave younger man who tells her she is beautiful. Clearly, there is an attraction, but clearly, she is married. However, there is an enticement and she still is unable to break away to join her family at Disney. Here is the point of conflict for her - go with her feelings and what the culture says would be cool, or join her family at Disney. After all, in her mind her husband only needs her to organize his life and remember where things are, and her boys only need her to resolve their conflicts. Here, however, is a young attractive man who finds her beautiful, unique, and is attracted to who she is, not what she can do for him. What should she do....?

And, for that, you'll have to stay tuned for the next post! :):):)

Funny funny

2008-04-07T13:28:00.003-04:00

We love shopping at Target.

The other day we hit all of the Easter 90% off and Dollar spot 75% off - what fun. As we are heading to the check out, my 6 year old says

"Mommy - we expected more and paid less."

I stopped and said,

"Wow - did you just come up with that?"

She said -

"No, it is right there on the wall - Expect More and Pay Less!"

Too CUTE!

Processing...

2008-04-05T12:42:00.002-04:00

As some of you know, i was privileged to go to Kenya last year. It was an amazing trip - one that I do not think I realized the importance of until returning and processing. When our team left Kenya, I had the hope/expectation that i would be returning again on our churches' next trip. Due to varying circumstances, our church will not be making the trip and our life is changing some that the opportunity to do this again may be a long ways away.

These last few days I have been thinking about those I met in Kenya. Many do not have electricity, much less internet or postal service. Thus, essentially when I left their presence in Kenya, I left all communication with them. This was a hard thing to grasp for me as I knew the Lord went before us, and I knew He placed people in my path with whom I "clicked" with, yet I also realized that when I left, I would never hear from them or talk to them again.

Many times this week I have wondered why, then, I even met these people if there was heartache in the end for me as I would never know how a situation turned out, or how school went that year, or if they even were able to grow enough corn that year. Yet, I am reminded in a small silent way that I may be the only person that ever prays for that person. I have been struck over and over as an adult how many people I meet in my daily life in America who do not have anyone in their life who is a Christian, or anyone in their life who has ever said "I will pray for you" to them. So then, I must take my time of longing for simple communication with those I met in Kenya and turn that into a prayer for them.

Our Lord knows them more intimately than I will ever know and when I begin to go down the route of "poor me - I will never see them again. I wonder if....I wonder why..... I wonder...." I will say a prayer for them, lifting up all of those thoughts to Him who sees, who was, who is, and who always will be.

Still here...

2008-03-31T15:53:00.002-04:00

Hey there. I am still around, but it has been a crazy couple of weeks. The children were out on Spring Break, so my "quiet time" was limited! :) We are in the process of a few major life stressors around our house, so my quietness seems to be replaced by quirkiness over and over again. Today, I will share with you one of my favorite devotionals from Crosswalk. And, yes, it has to do with a List....

How to Do a To-Do List by Nicole Whitacre
This morning, after my quiet time, I made a list. A list of all the things I have to do today. Take the bath mat that Jack stained to the cleaners. Talk to my husband about the finances. Call a friend who isn’t feeling well. Grade papers for my writing class. Run errands. Write this post. Oh, and call another friend, and return that toaster, and ask Steve about…I, of course, am trying to follow Habit #5 of the Disciplined Woman, which is: she develops an effective to-do list system and calendar/planning system. I’ve got this habit half-way down. I have accumulated many credit-hours of to-do list and planning experience.

But it’s the “effective” part I have trouble with. My problem is that I tend to over-plan and way over-list. (Who else puts “File Nails” as an item on their to-do list? Write me. We need to be friends). My husband cringes when he asks what I’m doing today and I excitedly reply, “I am going to organize my life.” Those seven words always spell trouble. That usually means he’ll come home to find me in a pile of papers, sighing a lot.

However, I am blessed with my very own organizational advisor. Mom’s got both the list and the effective parts down. So enough about me, and my ineffective system; here are five simple steps to her highly effective to-do list and calendar system.

1. Create a Master To-Do List: First off, Mom keeps one running list of everything she needs to do. One author calls this a “mind-dump” on paper. This is her master to-do list. Each week she uses this list to do her weekly planning. She assigns various tasks from the master to-do list to the appropriate day of the week.

2. Create a Daily To-Do List: After her quiet time each day, Mom spends 15 minutes making a daily to-do list. Although Mom does her list in Microsoft Word, you can do it just as easily on paper. At the top she writes a verse or quote from her quiet time that she wants to meditate on that day. She already has several to-do list items assigned during her weekly planning, and she adds more as necessary. When an item on her master to-do list is a big project, her daily to-do list may include several tasks to move that project forward a little at a time.

3. Create a Daily Schedule: Mom takes her daily to-do list and allocates time for each task. She says it’s helpful to consider energy levels and to schedule the tasks that require the most thinking (e.g. balancing the check book, writing a letter) earlier in the day and save the brainless tasks (e.g. folding laundry) for the end of the day. Also, do your least-favorite tasks first and save the fun ones for last. Both the daily to-do list and the daily schedule are made with an eye on previously scheduled calendar items (e.g. homeschool Chad, dr.’s appt., church event, etc.).

4. Use Your Daily To-Do List/Schedule: Mom prints her daily to-do list/schedule and carries it around in her pocket. That way she has a verse, her to-do list, and the day’s schedule with her at all times. She is also more likely to fill up otherwise vacant slots of time accomplishing something on her list.

5. Do It Again Tomorrow: Whatever tasks she doesn’t complete get moved over to the next day and the process is repeated. For all you visual learners, here is a sample to-do list/schedule from Mom.

In order to effectively manage your to-do lists, calendar items, and goals, etc. you’ll need your very own “keep it all together” tool. Mom has a notebook (which includes a calendar) and she does her to-do lists on the computer and prints them out. By contrast, I keep all my information and lists on my laptop. You will need to discover the calendar/planning system—whether digital or paper—that is right for you.

Finally, there is one vital truth to remember about to-do lists. It’s something my dad tells us often: Only God gets His to-do list done . Only God accomplishes everything He needs to do, in exactly the way He intends, in precisely the right amount of time. Only God! This truth helps me see the arrogant absurdity of expecting to complete my own to-do list. It frees me to humbly accept my limitations, and simply seek to honor God by being a faithful steward of my time.

This article was adapted from "Girl Talk" - a blog kept by Carolyn and her three daughters for women in all seasons of life.

Carolyn Mahaney is a wife, mother, homemaker, and the author of Feminine Appeal: Seven Virtues of a Godly Wife and Mother, Girl Talk: Mother-Daughter Conversations on Biblical Womanhood and Shopping for Time: How To Do It All and Not Be Overwhelmed (written with her daughters) due out in July. During her more than 30 years as a pastor’s wife, Carolyn has spoken to women in many churches and conferences, including those of Sovereign Grace Ministries, which her husband, C.J., leads. C.J. and Carolyn have three married daughters and one fourteen-year-old son, Chad.

Nicole Whitacre is the oldest daughter of C.J. and Carolyn Mahaney, as well as a wife, mother, and homemaker. She assisted her mother with Feminine Appeal, and is the co-author of Girl Talk. Nicole and her husband Steve—who is a youth pastor at Sovereign Grace Church—have one son Jack, 4 and a newborn daughter Tori.

Kristin Chesemore and her husband Brian are the busy parents of three boys. Andrew is seven, Liam is four, and Owen is three. In the little spare time she does have, Kristin supports Brian in his role as a pastor in Family Life Ministries at Covenant Life Church.

Janelle Bradshaw has been married to her husband Mike for four years and they have a beautiful daughter Caly, 1. Mike serves as a pastor in Children’s Ministry at Covenant Life Church.

A Thought for Today

2008-03-20T14:16:00.002-04:00

I think we have all struggled with what we think the Lord's will is in a situation. I remember as a little girl wishing God would send down to me a list of what was going to happen to me and when so that I knew what to expect! And, ironically enough, I still wish those things - not necessarily what God would have me do, rather a list what others expect or need of me so that I can check them off when they are complete!! In my life, things are so much better with lists!!

While listening to the Bible, the commentator relayed the following statement from his pastor:

"You can sense you are in the will of God when there is effortless promotion; when you are being obedient and things are happening that are out of your personal manipulation - beyond the brass ring that you are after."

I immediately thought of the many things I have strived for and never attained. Looking back, I knew they were selfish ambitions and not what the Lord would have for me. I can also look back at the times in my life, and in the life of those closest to me, when I have seen God clearly exalt them. It was not something they manipulated to get/receive, rather they were obedient and at His time, they were exalted. It is awe-inspiring to watch. And, so humbling to know that He cares that much about me to work out so many of those details. To God be the glory.

Not a G Rated Post...

2008-03-18T13:06:00.002-04:00

As many of you know, I enjoy listening to Fox News on the XM radio in the car, as well as watch it during my workouts at the gym. Lately, the news has been full of sex. Who has had sex with whom? Who has not had sex? And now even, how many had sex together? And, the list goes on.....

This morning I heard one commentator make a statement similar to the following:

"With all of this news and information about everyone having affairs, I am starting to feel as if there is something wrong with my marriage if one of us isn't having an affair."

Now, that is my summary of what she said and not a direct quote, but oh how sad it is. Between our media and our culture, we are beginning to change what a normal marraige is! I am the first to admit that I enjoy watching some of the nightly shows that are so far from any type of reality in my life that I can enjoy them. A recurring theme that seems to happen in every show, no matter who the audience, is that either the man or the woman has an affair. And, in most cases, in some strange way the viewer does not find it offensive. We think: "She has been neglected by her husband," or "He is ignored by his wife and has needs." Then, the sin of the affair and its' inevitable consequences are lightened and it is all okay for the momentary 'happiness' that it brings. No one ever mentions the dashed trust, the hopeless feeling that even the illicit sex didn't fulfill, and, far from it all to mention the effect on any children.

So, what is the point of all of this, aside from my own venting? In many ways I could take the higher road and say - "oh, that is the world we live in..all those 'other' people have problems like that." Yet, as life continues on, we see these things filter from the Hollywood culture to our government to our churces and to our neighborhoods. So, instead of glossing it over, I must say I feel warned. I must guard my own marriage, I must guard my relationships, and most of all I must pray moment by moment to keep my focus on our Lord. I am often astounded at my own tendency to so easily be enticed by sin, but Lord, by Your grace, keep me from becoming entangled in it.

The Invisible Mom

2008-03-13T13:40:00.003-04:00

Since "Mom" is one of the hats I wear, I thought I would share this poem with you that someone emailed me. It certainly expresses the way I have felt many times. And, certainly a needed reminder that God sees - He sees it all.

I'm Invisible

It all began to make sense, the blank stares, the lack of response,
the way one of the kids will walk into the room while I'm on the phone and
ask to be taken to the store. Inside I'm thinking, 'Can't you see I'm on
the phone?'

Obviously not; no one can see if I'm on the phone, or cooking, or
sweeping the floor, or even standing on my head in the corner, because no
one can see me at all. I'm invisible. The invisible Mom.

Some days I am only a pair of hands, nothing more: Can you fix
this? Can you tie this? Can you open this?

Some days I'm not a pair of hands; I'm not even a human being. I'm
a clock to ask, 'What time is it?' I'm a satellite guide to answer, 'What
number is the Disney Channel?' I'm a car to order, 'Right around 5:30,
please.'

I was certain that these were the hands that once held books and
the eyes that studied history and the mind that graduated summa cum laude -
but now they had disappeared into the peanut butter, never to be seen again.
She's going, she's going, she's gone!

One night, a group of us were having dinner, celebrating the return
of a friend from England. Janice had just gotten back from a fabulous trip,
and she was going on and on about the hotel she stayed in. I was sitting
there, looking around at the others all put together so well.

It was hard not to compare and feel sorry for myself as I looked
down at my out-of-style dress; it was the only thing I could find that was
clean. My unwashed hair was pulled up in a hair clip and I was afraid I
could actually smell peanut butter in it.

I was feeling pretty pathetic, when Janice turned to me with a
beautifully wrapped package, and said, 'I brought you this.' It was a
book on the great cathedrals of Europe. I wasn't exactly sure why she'd
given it to me until I read her inscription: 'To Charlotte, with admiration
for the greatness of what you are building when no one sees.'

In the days ahead I would read - no, devour - the book. And I would
discover what would become for me, four life-changing truths, after which I
could pattern my work:

No one can say who built the great cathedrals - we have no record
of their names. These builders gave their whole lives for a work they would
never see finished. They made great sacrifices and expected no credit. The
passion of their building was fueled by their faith that the eyes of God
saw everything.

A legendary story in the book told of a rich man who came to visit
the cathedral while it was being built, and he saw a workman carving a tiny
bird on the inside of a beam. He was puzzled and asked the man, 'Why are
you spending so much time carving that bird into a beam that will be
covered by the roof? No one will ever see it.'

And the workman replied, 'Because God sees.'

I closed the book, feeling the missing piece fall into place. It
was almost as if I heard God whispering to me, 'I see you, Charlotte. I see
the sacrifices you make every day, even when no one around you does.

No act of kindness you've done, no sequin you've sewn on, no
cupcake you've baked, is too small for me to notice and smile over.

You are building a great cathedral, but you can't see right now
what it will become.'

At times, my invisibility feels like an affliction.

But it is not a disease that is erasing my life. It is the cure
for the disease of my own self-centeredness. It is the antidote to my
strong, stubborn pride. I keep the right perspective when I see myself as a
great builder. As one of the people who show up at a job that they will
never see finished, to work on something that their name will never be on.
The writer of the book went so far as to say that no cathedrals could ever
be built in our lifetime, because there are so few people willing to
sacrifice to that degree.

When I really think about it, I don't want my son to tell the
friend he's bringing home from college for Thanksgiving, 'My mom gets up at
4 in the morning and bakes homemade pies, and then she hand bastes a turkey
for three hours and dresses all the linens for the table.' That would mean
I'd built a shrine or a monument to myself. I just want him to want to come
home. And then, if there is anything more to say to his friend, to add,
'You're gonna love it there.'

As mothers, we are building great cathedrals. We cannot be seen if
we're doing it right. And one day, it is very possible that the world will
marvel, not only at what we have built, but at the beauty that has been
added to the world by the sacrifices of invisible women.

Great Job, MOM!

15 years....

2008-03-13T13:29:00.002-04:00

15 years ago my dear husband and I were married. It was a very windy day in Arkansas, but we really didn't care. Our family and friends were there and the day finally had arrived. I am thankful for the past 15 years, as well as the 3 children the Lord has given us along the way.

Someone asked me recently if I thought 15 years were any different than 10 years. It required a bit of thought, as 5 years ago, the children were all 5 years younger and life was such a different pace than it is now. How is it different? I must say in a good way it is different - the love is deeper, our maturity is greater in how we treat each other and those around us, and most of all we are both 5 years deeper into our adventure with Christ. As we each develop our relationship with our Savior, our relationship as a husband and wife inevitably deepens. Now, just so you know I am not painting some false rosy pictures, I think often times our "discussions" are harder as there are many things that, after 15 years, you assume your spouse knows. And, having to rehash some of the same things again and again has a tendency to frustrate me more than it used to. But, on the same token, I have tried, and prayed, and tried (not necessarily in that order...) to not be as sensitive. That, however, is still a work in progress! Check back next year......

A Thought for the Day

2008-03-11T19:30:00.003-04:00

In my daily Bible listening , we are reading through the book of Numbers. I must say, I am learning things I never realized were in the Bible. An example? How about Numbers, Chapter 5. Did you know that if a husband suspected his wife of an affair, they could go to the priest for the 'jealousy' offering? The man would tell the priest his suspicion and the woman was to drink a type of holy water. If she was innocent, then the water tasted good and she would soon have children. If, however, she did have an affair, the water would taste bitter, her womb would shrivel and her stomach would protrude. Yikes....

On a bit of a lighter note.....I was reminded as the Israelite continued their journey out of Egypt that they were asked to trust the Lord daily for not only their food, but also for their direction. The Lord led them by His presence in a cloud over the Tabernacle. The people were able to see this cloud during the day, as well as during the night as it was ablaze with fire. The key point of all of this is that the people were not to concern themselves with where the cloud was going to be the next day, or how long they were staying there. The Lord simply asked for their trust and obedience and He would direct them to their promised land.

How apt this lesson is for me today. I cannot let the fear of "What If's" take over my thoughts, nor can I miss today because I am too busy for the event of the future that may or may not come. Once again, the Lord reminded me to dwell. Dwell in His presence and trust in Him. He sees the big picture and I need to seek Him moment by moment for direction and just follow Him. Follow His leading. Follow His path for my life.

Being Born

2008-03-07T15:50:00.004-05:00

During a recent evening, the girls and I were waiting for DH to get home. We were trying to pass time by NOT watching tv, so I got out a book with a ton of "ice breaker" questions. We started with the easy ones - favorite dessert, where would you go on vacation, etc. Then, I asked

"What is the best thing you have ever done for someone else?"

Child #1 says ' "I am a good friend."
Child #2 says "I am kind to my family and friends."
Child #3 says "I was born!"
HA!! And, her reasoning??

"Well, if I weren't born, you would not be laughing right now and there wouldn't be me, so the best thing I ever did was to be born!"

From the mouths of children....

The Turtle

2008-03-05T12:50:00.002-05:00

For the second time this week, I have been driving down one of the main roads and seen a turtle attempting to cross the street. I am on the other side, so there is no sudden veering on my part, rather just a watching in my rear view mirror and wondering, "Is he going to make it?" This morning I watched the school bus hit the breaks, as well as those behind the bus, in order to avoid crushing the turtle. I am hopeful that turtle is now safely at home, eating whatever it is turtles eat.

The turtle got me thinking, though, about my life at the moment. In so many ways I am just trying to get from point A to point B and have no idea of the dangers and obstacles in my way. Yet, I keep moving forward, knowing that my destination is point B. At many parts of the journey the obstacle seemed so big. Now it is just a speck behind me. I did not move the obstacle or face down the danger, rather I kept my eye on the final destination of where my Lord wanted me to go and took each step He directed me to take. I continue on the path given to me and keep my eye on where I need to be, yet I remain fully aware of what is imminently in front of me.

I, like the turtle, need to remember to dwell in each moment of my day. I do not get that moment back. And, when the obstacle comes, I have to be ready to react how the Lord would have me react - whether that be retreating back into Him seeking further guidance or taking one more faithful step forward so that the obstacle becomes a speck in my past. At this moment - not later or after I finish the endless list of things to do, but in this moment I will dwell.

Matthew 6:33-34 says

"...for your Heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."

Hush

2008-03-04T16:57:00.003-05:00

We have heard this song on our XM radio quite a bit, but could never find it on itunes - until today! The song is called "Hush" by a Christian Group called Inhabited. It is awesome and the girls love to sing it. For a while, we couldn't figure out the words. But, now we have.... ;) "Hush" is referring to all those voices in our head, and in our society telling us to be one way or another that goes against what God tells us to be/do/say. The chorus of the song says "Where my girls at - let me here you if you don't care." Now, let me tell you - the first time we heard this I am thinking.....hum - not going to listen to who?? But, after reading the words, what an awesome message for all the girls out there. Be who God wants you to be, and do as He says, for His way is perfect - always has been, and always will be, even in the midst of our lack of understanding.

Here is a clip from Sarah, the author and lead singer of the song.

Welcome!

2008-03-04T13:38:00.005-05:00

Welcome to the first post! I know you are asking yourselves - why did I name this "Quiet and Quirky?"

Quiet - In our home things are not quiet for long, but when they are my mind goes wild thinking, observing, and absorbing the world aroud me. Oftentimes, the thoughts are fleeting and if I do not write them down, they are gone. For example, in my quiet moment today I listened to The Daily Audio Bible The reading was from Psalm 46. And, what did I hear? I heard that God can be our place to hide; He fights for us; He protects us. The reader of the Psalm, Brian, made the following comment:

"The deeper I get into this life of Faith, the more I learn that it is definitely not about me, but that I play an important role, and what a place of peace to live there."

Quirky - Dictionary.com says that a quirk is

(1) a peculiarity of behavior or idiosyncrasy; (2) an unpredictable or unaccountable act or event; (3) a sudden sharp turn or twist.

I don't know about you, but my life is often that way. Things do not proceed as I would presume to be normal, rather there is a sudden twist, an unpredictable event, or some peculiar behavior (usually by me!) How about this week - what was quirky this week? To be honest, this week was my mood (yes, I am aware that it is only Tuesday). I am humming along, thankful for many things and then I am struck with this melancholy and this 'poor me' attitude. Unfortunately for my family and friends, when these moods hit, I tend to be less than patient. The children run for cover into their rooms and my DH (dear husband) tends to watch and play a little more hockey. Possibly, this is why i was struck by the observations from Pslam 46 this morning - it is not about me, nor will it ever be about me, but it is about my Savior, my God, my Lord, my King, and my Friend. THAT is where I need to dwell - in that place of peace.

I enjoy writing and I hope to put many of my thoughts down on this blog. In the end, even if I and my husband are the only two to read it, well.....we can say he is much more knowledgeable of the female mind then! :) I look forward to sharing life with you.