GramCrackersZoo

The new math: a la CDC

2009-11-13T10:49:00.011-06:00

The CDC has announced what appears to be appalling numbers on the swine flu. 22 million sickened since April. 4,000 dead, including 540 children. And yet the CDC advised states to stop testing for H1N1 and to stop counting cases in July. So what magical math formula do they use to determine how many cases of this dreaded illness have occurred? According to the CDC's website, all flu cases and deaths are being counted together. Which calculator are they using to determine the numbers that are hitting headlines the last few days?

CBS investigated this oddity, and of course, the CDC had no logical explanation, and refused to provide information until CBS submitted a freedom of information request. Even then, it took 2 months for the CDC to provide the requested data.

Recently, a local news clip recommended that people who already had the flu should still get the vaccine, "just in case" it really wasn't the H1N1 virus. Hmmm.....seems like the odds would be pretty slim according to the CDC's logic that says that if you have flu symptoms, in all probability, you have H1N1.

Color me cynical, but I have to question these numbers and the decisions this organization is making. Decisions that have tremendous impact on our health and our children's health. Surely a government organization would not make a decision based on the possibility of losing money on paid-for, but unused, doses of vaccines! Three words, people: Guillain-Barre Syndrome. If you aren't familiar with this, google it or use whatever research options you have. This is an ACKNOWLEDGED risk factor with the current vaccine. Do not think that the pharmaceutical companies are worried about adverse outcomes due to their poorly tested vaccines. The government has granted immunity to vaccine producers. The CDC will tell you this is a 1 in 1 million risk factor. But is it worth the risk for an illness that you are far less likely to get than the CDC's new math would lead you to believe? Here's a report on one person's experience: http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,574910,00.html?test=latestnews

You can read the CBS report http://www.examiner.com/x-6495-US-Intelligence-Examiner~y2009m10d28-Swine-Flu-Cases-CBS-reports-CDC-deception-on-swine-flu-cases?cid=exrss-US-Intelligence-Examiner and then make an informed decision about the piggy flu vaccine.....and, if you have already received this one, consider the possible consequences when the next "epidemic" comes around.

When I say, "I am blessed...."

2009-04-27T10:18:00.009-05:00

I've been working through something over the last several months. Every time I say, "I am blessed" it seems to be in reference to some "thing" I received or some wonderful event in life. Is this scriptural? Is this what it really means to be blessed by God? And when something difficult comes along, I seem to say, "blah, blah, blah happened, BUT I am so blessed" referring to other aspects of my life; because there surely could be no blessing in the bad stuff. I am not in any way suggesting that we don't have times of sadness or grieving. I am not making light of the hard times every one of us experiences. But God can bless us by the hard times. He can bless us by sickness, misery, financial woes, loss of a loved one. He can bless us any way He wants. When I'm open to the Holy Spirit's voice, I often hear, "This may seem disappointing right now, but I am protecting you from things you know nothing about."

Not too long ago, a friend said to me, "You have a good life," and before I could tame my tongue I said, "I am blessed." My initial thought was that I wanted to give credit where credit was due...to God. But in a way, I said to her, "I am blessed and you are not."

I also realize that sometimes the things we experience are a result of evil....deliberate evil, by evil people. Yet God is still in control. He will forbid and allow as He sees fit.

Genesis 50:20
"As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to preserve many people alive."

^{I Peter 3:14}
But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, you are blessed and do not fear their intimidation, and do not be troubled...

I hope that some day I can get to the point where I refer to everything God allows to touch my life as a blessing.

James 1:2-3
Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance.

Random thoughts....

2009-04-06T13:39:00.004-05:00

My granddaughter asked for this....

I do NOT like the wind. A tiny breeze when it is very hot outside is welcome. But this swirling mess of dust, leaves, and hair in my eyes is not nice.

The older I get the more easily I am overwhelmed by a busy schedule. The weeks leading up to Easter and Christmas are the busiest at my job, and I don't feel like I am handling this nearly as well as I used to.

I am ready to get some flowers planted in the yard. Now if that dratted wind would just stop!

I am looking forward to decorating Easter Eggs with the munchkins on Friday. It is always great fun and a great mess!

I'm glad baseball season has started.

I'm disappointed, but not surprised, that the Stars will not be in the playoffs this year.

I HATE the windows operating system. Just think if everything in life had the same 'fixes' as windows. Turn it off and turn it back on. Imagine what a joy that would be while driving down the freeway. Or.....my cake is halfway baked, but the oven is making a weird noise. Just turn it off, let it rest for a few minutes, and turn it back on. Yay for fallen cakes. You get the picture.....Microsoft is evil.

I love spring. And I love autumn. Summer is a bit too hot, but not so much now that we have a pool. I HATE winter.

I'm glad we bought a Wii for the munchkins for Christmas, and I'm glad it lives at our house. I think we use it as much as the kiddos.

Sunday we will celebrate the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. This is too wonderful for me to fully comprehend. Thank you Lord Jesus!!!!

Is it really over already?

2009-01-03T17:51:00.013-06:00

The whirlwind that was the holiday season is over. It took 8.4 seconds. It was great fun and a blessing as always. Some highlights; some low lights; and, of course, munchkin pictures:

Highlights: The annual children's Christmas parade; two parties at our house with friends from church; a new slender Christmas tree that fits into the new arrangement of our living/dining room; making gingerbread houses; taking Kannon Christmas shopping; picking my brother up at the airport; taking a carriage ride to see the lights in Highland Park; Christmas eve with family and friends- stockings, snacks, and eggnog; Christmas day- watching the kids have a blast, eating some amazing beef short ribs (if I may say so myself); the funnest iPod EVER; Manheim Steamroller concert; Cirque Dreams at the Nokia theater.

Low lights: I got a sinus infection, was sick for a week and was unable to sing at the Christmas eve service; a bizzarre reaction to the antibiotic (next time, I may just suffer through it!); putting eleventy million white and gold lights on the new tree; taking down the decorations; taking my brother back to the airport.

Pics:

The Girl is Just TOO Cool!

2008-12-19T02:40:00.005-06:00

Christmas dance recital was Monday. This girl knew her stuff! But the best part to me was when her tap shoe came off, and she stayed cool and just kept on dancing! I love the way she handles this kind of pressure. It will serve her well though out her life. Good job, sweet girl!

Six!

2008-12-14T19:27:00.002-06:00

Happy Birthday, Maverick! Six years old! What a wonderful, big boy you have become. I hope you enjoy batting practice with your new toy! I love you!

Children's Parade: A Yearly Adventure

2008-12-08T07:36:00.017-06:00

We went to the Neiman Marcus Children's Parade on Saturday. It's one of the traditions we've had for about 7 or 8 years. It's fun to watch each of the munchkin and how much they've grown since the previous year. The tiny munchkin did the princess wave during the entire parade. (I was told she learned it from her mommy, but that's just gossip!) It's possible that the little one was still waving while she took her nap. This is the first year that all four munchkins drank the hot chocolate that I made as part of this traditional event. (Pappy gets the donuts, because there is nothing better than sugared-up kids at a parade.) A good time was had by all!

Be sure to take time during this busy season to spend time with your friends, family, spouse, kids and grandkids. Hustle and bustle can probably not be easily avoided, but we never know what a year may bring, and next year we may not all be around to enjoy each other. Give the kids memories of fun times that include YOU, not just getting a bunch of packages under the tree. And most importantly, make sure they remember that we are celebrating the greatest, most amazing gift of all: God's gift of His only Son......who gave up all He had to come to this broken, painful, sinful world so that we could be made right with God.

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given,
and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6

All God's Children Got Shoes....

2008-11-11T21:18:00.005-06:00

Except some of them don't. Here's an easy way to help some needy children get a basic necessity....SHOES! For a $5 donation, you can provide TWO pairs of shoes. I don't know about you, but I can spend five bucks before I even get out of bed in the morning. I hope you can help this organization meet its goal. Just click on the banner....

And the winner is.....

2008-11-06T21:40:00.003-06:00

At Halftime (children's ministries fun and learning time for kids K-5) there was a pumpkin decorating contest. And Teya won first prize! Yay for her....she worked hard and was very creative. She was so excited to be the winner. When we talked about making a pumpkin, she wasn't sure she wanted to because she didn't think she was very good at stuff like that. I'm so glad she won! And you can see she really did make a beautiful pumpkin bird!

Another Birthday!

2008-09-18T13:19:00.014-05:00

A month late, but what a busy month it was! Happy Birthday, Kannon Daniel. We had a fun time making cuppy cakes and playing at Going Bonkers!

Making ice cream cone cupcakes. Notice the smallest munchkin skipped the decorating step and went straight to the taste test.

Time for the Happy Birthday song.....

How old are you?

Lots of assistance opening birthday gifts....

Under construction

2008-07-23T08:38:00.007-05:00

This week the grandmother of a woman I work with passed away. Shortly before, she told her family she was ready to go home to Jesus. She knew He was preparing a place for her...."but why is it taking so long? I don't need a mansion!"

So my goofy mind went in a weird direction.....what exactly did Jesus mean by that. I can see it now- "Hey, Noah, hand me the nail gun." Of course Noah would be working right along side....ark builder extraordinaire. Seriously, though, I wonder if that word should be translated differently? The creator of the universe, the one who spoke it all into existence, is preparing a place for us. Or is this another of His masterpieces....just like Adam, whom He formed with His hands.

Happy 2nd Birthday, Little Girl

2008-07-20T08:55:00.026-05:00

To celebrate Faith Ember's 2nd birthday, we took a road trip to Oklahoma to the Arbuckle Wilderness. We endured the walk through zoo- It was hot! But fortunately, there were a lot of trees- and then moved on to the drive through zoo. We had three large cups of animal food, and different varieties of deer, giraffes, emus, ostriches, etc. would come up to the window and eat from the cups. Very exciting for the little kiddos, and let me tell you, there is nothing more delightful than the slobber of large animals all over a new car. It was GROSS-- and would not come off in the automatic car wash.

We then drove a few miles down the road to Turner Falls Park. The kids got in the stream under the falls and cooled off while Pappy grilled hotdogs. Although none of the munchkins seem to like toasted marshmallows, I took a bag along anyway, figuring that some day, they will break. But not this day.

Fun quote of the day: After toasting a marshmallow to lovely golden brown perfection, and giving him a tiny little nibble, I turned to Maverick, and with a voice appropriate for the most serious spiritual discussion, I said, "Maverick....this... right here.... (points lovingly to perfect marshmallow achievement)...is what we will have in heaven...perfect...delicious... heavenly treats." He looked at me with his big bug eyes, and in all seriousness said, "So.....we're going to have food we don't like in heaven?"

More birthday pics:

Skating!

2008-07-09T12:19:00.005-05:00

The younger boy munchkin took a week of ice skating lessons. Day one he could hardly stand on the ice. By day five, he was skating by himself very well! I guess another week's lessons is in order! The video is from day three; the photo is from day five.

Fishy Baby Girl

2008-06-08T20:41:00.009-05:00

Miss Barbie is the best swim instructor! Look at what she has the 23 month old doing after only 5 lessons. The kiddos are taught to imitate a rocket ship and then roll over onto their backs and float. A great idea in case they fall into water unexpectedly....from their backs they can breathe and call for help. Three short videos to show off the little one.....

I hope you dance....

2008-05-19T08:56:00.015-05:00

Dance recital was Saturday. The little girl who was jittery and scared she would mess up, lit up when she hit the stage. All three times! She was beaming! She knew her dances and did a great job. Her hard work paid off.

Proud Gram Pics:

After her daddy lifted her down from the stage, she said, "I want to do it AGAIN!!!!" I love to see a child encouraged by a job well done...especially when they have worked long and hard to get there!"You can't see a painter or a writer or a musician if you just look at them, but you can see a dancer in a child if they've studied ballet for a year." ----"The Dancer and the Dance" movie

Piano recital

2008-05-18T10:23:00.007-05:00

I give piano lessons to three adorable children. Last Saturday we had a recital. They did such a great job! They worked hard and it showed!

What a difference you've made in my life....

2008-05-13T07:53:00.008-05:00

Happy 8th Birthday, dear granddaughter! I can't believe you are 8 years old....it seems like such a short time ago I saw you for the first time....sleeping on your mommy. I love so many things about you.....you LOVE to read.......you delight in your younger brothers and sister and take good care of them......you play hard and get dirty.......you paint your nails and love princesses and girly girl things......you swim like a little fish.....your beautiful curls........your lovely blue eyes that light up when you smile.......the way you sit straight and tall when you play the piano. I could go on and on.....I love you sweet girl!

Dallas Blooms

2008-04-18T06:03:00.037-05:00

I had the opportunity recently to visit the Dallas Arboretum. It was lovely! The weather was nice, but a bit too sunny for a photo shoot. However, I will share some of my favs here anyway. Great fun with the new digital SLR I received for Christmas from the greatest husband in the entire history of EVER!

Amazing Archeological Anthropological Discovery!

2008-02-05T08:52:00.000-06:00

I'm sure you are all waiting impatiently (as am I) for your next issue of Anthropology & Archeology Today. The March issue will contain an article about the recent discovery in Lewisville, Texas....Yes, LEWISVILLE, TEXAS!....of the world's original jello salad.

On or about January 28, upon receiving my lunch tray, I was puzzled by a green and orange substance in a disposable cup. This green was so intense, so luminous, it was able to penetrate my morphine laced brain and I immediately realized a potentially dangerous situation.

Responding to the call button, the nurse entered the room, gawked at the offending substance, and immediately backed out the door. "I'll call someone," she stammered. Realizing she had most likely fled the vicinity, I called Homeland Security and the CDC. Upon hearing a description of the green and orange material, and realizing the potential for an epidemic in a large metropolitan area, the DHS and the CDC dispatched specialists in full hazmat gear who arrived in only two days. Upon their arrival, the material was placed in an hermetically controlled chamber. I didn't have the heart to tell them I had already poked it with my fork. After checking carefully for radiation and biological contaminants, the offending substance was placed in an airtight container and moved under armed guard to the Jeffersonian Institute in Washington, D.C., where Bones and her lab rats could study the ancient artifact.

Although easily identified as green jello with a petrified apricot floating in it, and carbon dating placing its origins in 2376 BC, questions remain. How did this ancient jello salad find its way to Lewsiville Medical Center? How did an apricot, which was first cultivated in China in 3000 BC, combine with green jello which was first served at a Peruvian childcare center in 2820 BC? These and other pertinent questions may be answered in March's Anthropology & Archeology Today. We need these answers. Without them, we may soon be dealing with the original Mystery Meatloaf appearing at the corner laundromat.

Yep, It's 2008 already!

2008-01-07T13:01:00.002-06:00

Some miscellaneous thoughts and observations from the holidays....

1. Christmas eve is stocking night at our house. The kids have fun debating who should be first, and in what order the stockings should be opened. Most interesting comment, repeated several times throughout the unwrapping of tiny gifts- "Whooooah!" Uttered with awe and wonder. Followed by, "What is it?" Just too funny.....and yet I thought.....they trust the giver enough to know that whatever it is, it's good.

God has perfect and wonderful gifts for us. I hope I say "Whooooah!" with awe and wonder even before I know what they are.

2. We didn't get so busy with the parties and shopping and baking and cooking, that the reason for Christmas was lost. Three of the four grandkids can tell you in a heartbeat what it's all about. And they are quick to notice who has the REAL Christmas stuff in their yards.

3. The munchkins took just as much pleasure in seeing what the other kids got as they did about their own stuff. Hmmmm.....obvious application there.

4. Taking down the tree and the decorations is such a bummer. There's a part of me that hates the clutter, but I really hate that it's over. We have such fun planning what to buy for each person, and it's great watching them open everything. And I know I couldn't live with that level of 'excitement' year round. I'd be burned out in two months. But still, taking down the decorations is a bummer.

5. One more Christmas and I still have all my family. Dad had a pacemaker/defibrillator inserted a couple of weeks before Christmas. All went well. Parents, brothers, sisters, their kids....husband, son, his wife, their kids. Some day there will be a Christmas with an empty place. But not this one. I thank the Lord for that. And pray that I will thank Him just as much when that changes.

Just for fun- here are Christmas pics of each of the munchkins.

6. So now it's back to the pedestrian things that make up my life. This morning the kitchen got a good cleaning and I was clipping coupons from Sunday's paper thinking, "Now this is one exciting life I've got here. Yep, wouldn't change a thing."

How quickly we forget

2007-09-21T09:37:00.000-05:00

It was a year ago that the pain of disappointment and betrayal led a number of us to begin blogging. Each of us experienced the usual range of emotions associated with great loss. A year later, and the pain is minimized, the anger is cooled, the sadness is lessened. And yet, over the past few days I realized that immediately following that wretched day, I was so pulled toward the Lord, so motivated to read His Word and to seek Him. And now that the pain and disappointment have lessened, I find it easier to forget Who holds me up- easier to spend less time with Him- easier to think I can do this by my own strength. God knows how quickly we forget. He knows that we need constant reminders of His provision and protection.

All through the Old Testament God instituted feasts and festivals- celebrations to remind His people of what He had done. An opportunity to tell it to their children and their children's children.

I'm glad I started this blog. I'm glad I can go back and revisit the time when the pain of loss and betrayal led me to seek Him more earnestly. When confusion and fear made me trust Him more. My prayer is that I can regain the overwhelming sense of my need of Him- the need that was so apparent when the hurt was so fresh, the pain was so intense.

Deuteronomy 4:9
Just make sure you stay alert. Keep close watch over yourselves. Don't forget anything of what you've seen. Don't let your heart wander off. Stay vigilant as long as you live. Teach what you've seen and heard to your children and grandchildren.

Draft

2007-09-04T13:49:00.000-05:00

There's only one definition that matters!

draft:
noun
1. A current of air in an enclosed area.
2. A device that regulates the flow or circulation of air.
3. a. The act of pulling loads; traction.
b. Something that is pulled or drawn; a load.
c. A team of animals used to pull loads.
4. Nautical The depth of a vessel's keel below the water line, especially when loaded: a river vessel of shallow draft.
5. A heavy demand on resources.
6. A written order directing the payment of money from an account or fund.
7. a. A gulp, swallow, or inhalation.
b. The amount taken in by a single act of drinking or inhaling.
c. A measured portion; a dose.
8. a. The drawing of a liquid, as from a cask or keg.
b. An amount drawn: ordered two drafts of ale.
9. a. The process or method of selecting one or more individuals from a group, as for a service or duty: a candidate who did not pursue the nomination, but accepted a draft by the party convention.
b. Compulsory enrollment in the armed forces; conscription.
c. A body of people selected or conscripted.
10. Sports A system in which the exclusive rights to new players are distributed among professional teams.
11. a. The act of drawing in a fishnet.
b. The quantity of fish caught.
12. a. Any of various stages in the development of a plan, document, or picture: a preliminary draft of a report; the final draft of a paper.
b. A representation of something to be constructed.
13. A narrow line chiseled on a stone to guide a stonecutter in leveling its surface.
14. A slight taper given a die to facilitate the removal of a casting.
15. An allowance made for loss in weight of merchandise.

verb.
1. To select from a group for some usually compulsory service: drafted into the army.
2. To select from a group for placement on a sports team.
3. To draw up a preliminary version of or plan for.
4. To create by thinking and writing; compose: draft a speech.
5. To work as a drafter.
6. To move, ride, or drive close behind a fast-moving object so as to take advantage of the slipstream, especially in a race.

adj.
1. Suited for or used for drawing heavy loads: oxen and other draft animals.
2. Drawn from a cask or tap: draft beer.

Today Fantasy Football will reach new heights. Attention KeystoneLoneStars....be afraid.....be very afraid. In the end, there can be only one....GramCrackersZoo will eliminate you and your pathetic little FFL team.

Do you want Fry's with that?

2007-08-18T09:32:00.000-05:00

Last night I had the dubious pleasure of accompanying the man to a local electronics store. Before being eligible for employment at said store, one must enter the geek enhancement chamber. The potential employee is zapped with hundreds of billions of geek particles, so tiny they can embed themselves into a carbon-based life form's brain cells. He is also supplied with a permanently applied store uniform- a starched white shirt and geeky tie. Within 10 minutes of standing wide-eyed in an aisle filled with alien technology, I was feeling slightly comatose. A certified geek employee approached. "May I help you?" he asked in broken English. (His first language was obviously Cardassian.) The only response I could think of? "Are you a licensed mental health professional?" He was obviously torn between calling for security and just zapping me himself with a Zat gun. "Never mind," I muttered. At this point, I told the man I'd wait for him in the bar. Unfortunately, the strongest beverage offered was carbonated soft drinks. Be warned. If you are invited to accompany a man to this store, no matter how hot this guy is, RUN, do not walk to the nearest exit. Or call homeland security.

Remember: there are 10 kinds of people in the world: those who understand binary, and those who don't.

My Friend

2007-08-10T13:25:00.000-05:00

If anyone reads this, I have a request. Please pray for my friend. I will not give her name, but God knows it. He knows all about her. That she has had a hard life. That she has made bad choices. That she is angry and bitter and doesn't want anything to do with 'religion.' (She doesn't know there's a difference between religion and Jesus Christ's offer of free salvation. YET!) Because she is so angry about religion, I am very careful what I say to her. I hope my life will say it better anyway.

I had lunch with her today. She is over medicated and spacey, and yet still is looking for answers. I prayed beforehand and asked God to make it clear to me if this was a time to share. Somehow, the time didn't seem to come. I was able to do a favor for her, and while we were driving around she commented about how "You're just too understanding" with a tone of voice that said "and weird" in my reaction to an impatient driver. (Oh, I'm glad she's not always in the car with me!)

She needs Jesus so much. And as I look at her and hear her stories, I know that except for what He has done in my life, I would be so much like she is. Angry, bitter, lonely. I am praying that I will not miss the right opportunity to tell her about Him. Maybe I just need to jump right in there and share my life story. Please pray for her. And please pray for me.... I need wisdom and discernment. And boldness. And caution.

Blessed be the Bonds that Tie

2007-08-05T09:14:00.000-05:00

One more, and the melodrama will finally be over. It's been dissected, re-dissected and dissected again. Is he juiced? Was he juiced? Does it matter? Should it matter? Enough already. It is what it is. MLB has created a monster. Let them deal with it. Meanwhile, let's get back to baseball and pennant races. And hotdogs. And little kids looking up to heroes who deserve to be heroes.

Let them drive cake!

2007-07-21T11:01:00.000-05:00

As a cake decorator, I'm not often impressed with the cakes I see. Basic grocery store creations appear garish and amateur at best. Even the specialty shops are often so ordinary. Rule of thumb: If I could do it, there's no wow factor. There are always the exceptions, and this car commercial does it well.

Prepare to be impressed!

Belated Happy Birthday!

2007-07-17T18:22:00.001-05:00

A few days late, but Happy Birthday to the youngest of the sweetest munchkins on the planet. I can't believe she's a year old already.

Here she is enjoying the yummy cake Mommy made for her. She wasn't sure what to do with it at first, but she caught on soon enough. What fun!

I love you, sweet little Faith Ember!

Digital Scrapbook Supplies by:
Nana's Attic at http://nanas-attic.blogspot.com/
and
Tracy's Scraps at http://dranet.blogspot.com/

2007-06-01T08:33:00.000-05:00

This is the strangest year of my life. Other years have contained 12 months. Apparently, this year will only contain 11. Yesterday was April 30th. Today is June 1st. May is MIA, or it just didn't exist. Surely I would have noticed its arrival. Surely I would have noticed its departure.

I'm sure there is a beneficial aspect to this. I'm thinking I get to change my next birthday to a month later. But I wonder if the grandkids will appreciate me messing with THEIR birthdays. I'm thinking not.

The older I get (insert your droll age-related comment here), the faster time goes. But I have never had an entire month disappear. I've had days that blurred my vision; weeks that caused vertigo. I've had years that caused kinetosis . Now, the speed of time has caused total amnesia.

More middle-aged angst. They say memory is the second thing to go. Don't ask me what the first thing is. I've forgotten. And I don't want to know what the third is.

If anyone out there knows where May is hiding, please let me know. I'd like to tuck it back into place for next year.

Psalm 39:5 (Amplified Bible)

Behold, You have made my days as [short as] handbreadths, and my lifetime is as nothing in Your sight. Truly every man at his best is merely a breath! Selah [pause, and think calmly of that]!

What does this say about me?

2007-04-30T08:44:00.000-05:00

Two erudite leaders at one of my places of employment have blogs in which they have listed the top ten suggestions given to them by Amazon.com based on past buying and searching criteria. I thought this could be an interesting assessment, so off to Amazon.com I surfed. And here's what I found...

1. Signing Time! Volume 2: Playtime Signs DVD DVD ~ Rachel de Azevedo Coleman; Alex Brown; Leah Coleman

2. Signing Time! Volume 3: Everyday Signs DVD DVD ~ Rachel de Azevedo Coleman; Alex Brown; Leah Coleman

3. Wine For Dummies (For Dummies (Cooking)) by Ed McCarthy (Author), Mary Ewing-Mulligan (Author)

4. Tom and Jerry - Whiskers Away Full 10 episode version DVD ~ Tex Avery

5. G is for Garden State: A New Jersey Alphabet Edition 1. (Discover America State By State. Alphabet Series) by Eileen Cameron

6. M Is For Mayflower: A Massachusetts Alphabet Edition 1. (Discover America State By State. Alphabet Series) by Margot Theis Raven

7. White Wine for Dummies by Ed McCarthy (Author), Mary Ewing-Mulligan

8. Red Wine for Dummies by Ed McCarthy (Author), Mary Ewing-Mulligan

9. Signing Time! Volume 4: Family, Feelings &amp;amp;amp; Fun DVD DVD ~ Rachel de Azevedo Coleman; Alex Brown; Leah Coleman

10. O is for Old Dominion: A Virginia Alphabet Edition 1. (Discover America State By State. Alphabet Series) by Pamela Duncan Edwards

Apparently, I'm a 4-year old deaf oenophile with limited mental capacities!

Sunny Side Up

2007-04-24T04:57:00.000-05:00

Last week was less than spectacular:

1. Sunday I took my husband to the airport for an 8+ day trip. We're both OK with his travel schedule, but I sure do miss him when he's gone.

2. Wednesday I got sick. Worse than I've been in almost 3 years. That time it took over 4 months to fully recover. (Did I mention that my husband was out of town?)

3. Friday my manager called and told me he was resigning his position.

4. Saturday I found out that the weekend I'll be in Pennsylvania for my brother's 25th wedding anniversary party is the weekend my eldest granddaughter has her dance recital. The big one. The one she has been working on all year. Oh, and no one can video tape it, because there will be a professional taping and they want to sell copies. I'm good with that, but do you think they will have the good sense to focus in on the most important child on the stage. Not likely!

5. Monday the Stars lost. In a totally awful game that I almost wish I hadn't watched. What were those referees smoking up there north of the 49th parallel? I don't believe in the "let them play" mentality of not calling penalties because it's a playoff game. But honestly, there were more phantoms in that game than a poltergeist movie.

On the flip side:

1. I have an awesome husband! He has a great job, and although it does require some travel, I don't have small children at home to care for by myself. AND he comes home!

2. Last time I recovered. Some people don't. I feel confident I will recover this time, too.

3. Sometimes change really is for the better. Sometimes it's just change. Either way, I have no control over this one, and I'm just looking forward to what the Lord has in store for me and what now will almost seem like a new job.

4. I have a brother who has stayed married for 25 years. No small accomplishment in this society with all its 'backdoors.' I have a darling little 6-year old granddaughter. And thanks to technology (yeah, I love that stuff!) I will have a video to watch when I get home. And she will be on there dancing her little heart out. Cute as a button, as always.

5. Marty Turco should never again be questioned about his playoff abilities. There will be some personnel changes for next year, and when they are back in the playoffs, maybe someone will be able to score some goals so that he won't have to have 4 shut outs each round for the Stars to win. Go Stars!

I'm keeping the sunny side up on this one!

Ungrateful

2007-04-18T15:05:00.000-05:00

I have a lung disease. Probably started about 4 years ago when I had pneumonia. Ever since, I've had some somewhat serious bouts of coughing that would not cease. To the point of being hospitalized. But as diseases go, this one ain't bad. Minimal pain. Mostly functional, but I do require more rest than I used to. I have to be careful to not over commit and to not be overly busy. Or I will get sick. In spite of my care, I still get an infection every 3 months or so. And I'm off to the doc...meds, shots, breathing treatments, etc.

About two weeks ago, I had the usual quarterly infection and its tandem woes. Immediately went to the doc to ensure it wouldn't progress to the hospitalization stage again. Within a week, I felt a lot better and, other than being exceptionally tired, thought I was better.

During the night I woke up sick-- again. After two weeks. Off to the doc again. (Yes, it gets that bad, that fast!) So I stopped on my way out of the office to let my daughter-in-law know I was sick again; since I had 2 of the munchkins over here Monday, she would need to keep an eye on them in case it was contagious. Started to feel sorry for poor little ol' me. And while we talked, a lady stopped to pick up her little girl. She mentioned that she might not have her little girl in child care next semester because she was going to be having an extremely serious operation. Show stopping serious.

O, Lord. How dare I feel sorry for myself. You are so good, and I am so blessed. Thank You for a very blunt reminder to keep my eyes on You. As I said to my daughter-in-law, "Never mind. I'm feeling just fine."

Psalm 121

1 I lift up my eyes to the hills—
where does my help come from?

2 My help comes from the LORD,
the Maker of heaven and earth.

3 He will not let your foot slip—
he who watches over you will not slumber;

4 indeed, he who watches over Israel
will neither slumber nor sleep.

5 The LORD watches over you—
the LORD is your shade at your right hand;

6 the sun will not harm you by day,
nor the moon by night.

7 The LORD will keep you from all harm—
he will watch over your life;

8 the LORD will watch over your coming and going
both now and forevermore.

Trick your ride, soccer mom

2007-04-10T17:24:00.000-05:00

He is risen! He is risen indeed!

2007-04-08T07:50:00.000-05:00

I wish I could fully comprehend the thoughts and feelings of the disciples and followers of Jesus on that Sunday morning. Feel what they felt. See what they saw. Experience what they experienced.

All had been lost. They were grieving and scared. And then....

The women came with an insane story. They knew it couldn't be true, but they wanted it to be true.

They ran....to the place Jesus had been.

Gone! Oh the possibilities of ways to explain it away. And, yet....

He appeared.

He is risen! He is risen indeed!

My Cloud Theory

2007-04-02T17:11:00.000-05:00

Grab a blanket and head outside on a beautiful spring day. You know the kind...cerulean skies with puffy clouds scattered about. Oh, and take a friend or child with you.

Lay back and watch the clouds. Then ask your friend to try to count how many clouds they see that look like polar bears. Meanwhile, you should look for and count clouds that look like whales. (Don't tell your cloud watching companion what you're up to!) After a few minutes, ask them how many whales they saw. Odds are, they saw no whales, while you saw several.

What's the point of this pleasant pastime? We see what we are looking for. If we're looking for polar bears, we will often not notice the whales. So be careful what you look for. You will probably find it. I know a lady who thinks everyone is involved in promiscuous behavior. Guess what! She sees it. A lot. And usually there's nothing untoward going on. I know a gal who thinks it's all about her. In every conversation, in every situation, she sees it revolving around her. And guess what. It seldom has anything to do with her.

What prompted the 'cloud theory' to be presented publicly? I was recently reminded to be careful what I am looking for. A pastor I know wrote an excellent blog about Palm Sunday and the Jewish people's inability to see the obvious. You can read the blog here: http://www.mikemesserli.blogspot.com
It was right there in their Scriptures. But they were looking for the wrong thing. And when the most important right thing ever was right in front of them, they didn't recognize it.

I pray that I will be looking for the right thing!

Psalm 39:7
But now, Lord, what do I look for?
My hope is in you.

Philippians 4:8
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

2 Peter 3:10-14
But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything in it will be laid bare. Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming. That day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat. But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, the home of righteousness. So then, dear friends, since you are looking forward to this, make every effort to be found spotless, blameless and at peace with him.

The Power of Darkness

2007-03-27T07:52:00.000-05:00

Chirp! Chirp! Chirp!

The man, knowing I normally sleep through anything short of a 7.6 magnitude earthquake, sneaks out of bed in search of the evil chirping smoke detector battery. Quickly found, removed from the ceiling, it is taken into a holding cell on the far side of the house, where an extraction can be made without waking the sleeping one.

Mission accomplished.

Chirp! Chirp! Chirp!

You've got to be kidding. Another one? Recon part deux. There it is. Another perpetrator is incarcerated.

What is it about the darkness that sucks the life out of batteries. I can't remember hearing one start to chirp during the day. Someday, scientists will have an answer. Until then....after darkness falls....when all is quiet.....

Chirp! Chirp! Chirp!

Testing Comments Section

2007-03-18T20:13:00.000-05:00

My last post did not publish with a comments option. This is a test to determine if that was a fluke or if this thing is just beyond repair.

The primate cages

2007-03-13T19:42:00.001-05:00

Watch 'em. Swinging from branch to branch. Checking out each others fleas and ticks. Scratching a back or two along the way. Quite the little community there. Showing off for the crowd and loving the attention. Caring for little ones. Getting a little "affectionate." Sitting in the back of the cage, out of the limelight, enjoying the solitude. Different behaviors, attitudes, personalities.

Why does that remind me of blogging? Swinging from blog to blog. Reading what we like. Responding if we want. Moving on to another. Some we relate to very well. Others seem like they are written in another language. Oh, that's right; they ARE written in another language. (Click "next blog" and you'll see what I mean. But be careful, there's a world of gross out there. Hmmm... just like the primates.) But sometimes, the ones that seem like they're written in another language are written in English.

We see each others' problems, disappointments and trials. We relate. We leave a comment if we think it might help. We read of joys and accomplishments. We leave a comment to congratulate. Helping with fleas and scratching backs.

Why do we do it?

I know I started in a time of trauma. And I know of some others who did the same. The desire to communicate. The need to vent. Some have started to keep in touch with distant relatives, and others at important milestones in their lives.

And perhaps the busyness and lack of personal interaction in our culture makes us feel unconnected. We go to work; work our butts off; chit chat with coworkers. We walk out to get the paper or the mail, and smile and wave at the neighbors. If we have a good relationship with them, we may chit chat...about the weather, our lawns, the kids, other neighbors. We go to church, give everyone our sweetest, most spiritual smile. Chit chat. Tell them how good it is to see them. Ask how they're doing. We're doing great, too! Spiritual smile repeated.

We are so afraid to share. At work, because we absolutely above all else must be PC. What if we mentioned (gasp) religion and someone was offended. Sensitivity training is in your future, right along with a nasty note in your HR file! And really, these people are our co-workers, for heaven's sake. Not real friends. They don't care about our problems. (And often we're right about that!)

We're afraid to share with our neighbors because if we offend them, well, they are our neighbors and they know where we live.

We're afraid to share at church. Maybe because we wouldn't look quite as spiritual without the smile. Sometimes, I think, because we are afraid that in that one last bastion of hope, people would be offended, and gone is all possibility that there is really someone in this world who can understand. Not necessarily agree, but understand, and not mind that you feel differently than they do about an issue. And maybe most often, it's just a lack of time spent together. Getting to know each other enough to trust and share. Classes are great, but it's very difficult to open up in a large group (which for me is more than 3 or 4 people). I think this blog thing gives us a chance to share, to vent, to communicate however we want. About whatever we want. Whenever we want. If we want, with some semblance of anonymity. No threats. No worries. No insecurities.

And now I'm going back to watch the monkeys.....Clicking "next blog" before this thing has time to post.

At the zoo

2007-03-11T16:37:00.000-05:00

Let's stop by the aquarium exhibit...

Of course, the dolphins are my favorite! But the killer whales are kinda cool, too. (Anything that makes me feel small holds a special place in my heart!) The way these creatures move in the water is fascinating. Seemingly effortless. Gliding, moving, jumping. Beautiful creatures.

Why the aquarium? The weather has started to warm up and there's this huge hole in my back yard full of water. Yesterday the urge to swim was so strong, I warmed up the spa and floated around in there for awhile, a LONG while, in fact. But I couldn't quite get into the cold pool yet. I am SO ready to swim. So ready to have munchkins squealing and running and jumping in the water. Yelling, "Throw me AGAIN!" to their daddy, who throws them so high in the air, you would think they would be frightened. But they love it. Over, and over, and over. Daddy's arms get tired long before they do. I'm ready to have informal family dinners at the picnic table. We see each other regularly, but often just in passing, and we don't really get to visit. I'm ready to float on my raft, and fall over into the water when it gets too hot. (Every 30 seconds, or so!) I'm ready to get out of the pool on a 100+ degree day, and feel like it's cold, cause I'm wet and there's a wind blowing. I'm ready to see the tiniest munchkin float in her super-wham-o-dyne yellow duck floaty that Pappy and Gram bought her for Christmas. Yep! I am READY to swim.

Wanna have a pool party?!?!?

Blessed

2007-02-08T08:30:00.000-06:00

Blessed are they whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered.
Blessed is the man whose sin the Lord will never count against him.
Romans 4:7

I am blessed. Last night I was sludging my way through an emotional dump. Every time that happens I know that my focus is out of whack. I realize that the physical limitations and stress of this broken sinful human body can contribute to my depressing thoughts. But I also know that when my focus is wrong and my thinking is out of balance, that I am not looking to the One who has the answer. And then this morning, I read this passage, and I'm reminded that I am so incredibly blessed. Because not only do these verses apply to me, but they apply to the people in the world who mean the most to me- my husband, my son, his wife, the oldest grandchild, who is the only one of the munchkins really old enough to understand God's message, although #2 is really close and certainly heading in the right direction; my parents, my mother-in-law, my father-in-law, who is already experiencing eternal life in the presence of Jesus Christ; my two brothers and their families; my three sisters and their families; my husband's two brothers and their families; his sister and her family. Yeah, that should get me out of the emotional sewage of self pity and discouragement. At least until the next time I start looking in the wrong direction.

And they're off...

2007-01-25T20:48:00.000-06:00

The 4:30am wake up call was not greatly appreciated! But off to the airport, with husband and son, I went. I can't believe it's finally here. Months of meetings, mental and emotional preparation, and suddenly it's time. It won't be too bad for me. I'm accustomed to the travel schedule of incredibly patient husband. But my dear daughter-in-law is not, and she has four little ones to care for. Right now I'm working two part-time jobs, so I'm not as much help as I would like to be. Please pray for her!

Several months have passed since my son first talked to his dad about this trip. Now that is a blessing in itself. "Dad, you and I need to go on this building trip. We can do this!" What else could dad say except, "yes"? And they will be good at this. They are both handy with the tools of the trade, work well with others, and most of all, love the Lord. Please pray for their safety, and for a great learning experience for both. (And some serious male bonding, as well.)

On a not so pleasant note, we got a call that the husband's brother had a heart attack tonight. A stent has been inserted, and we are hoping for the best. I'm sure this will weigh heavily on the hearts of two men in Haiti. Pray for the brother, and the men who will be so far from home.

I'll be anxiously awaiting the news of all God has done through this trip, although much may not be known until we are finally with our Lord.

Roastin', Toastin', Boastin'

2007-01-03T14:43:00.000-06:00

Or not.

For Christmas, incredibly patient husband and I decided to buy ourselves a coffee roaster. We had been hearing from more and more people how wonderful the coffee would taste and how fun it would be to try different coffees from around the world. Sounded like a fun hobby for two people who like good coffee.

Well, we've had the roaster for a month. So far, I'd give the coffees we've tried maybe a C+, B- max. So what's the deal? We always used Gevalia Light Roast coffee before, so we aren't comparing this stuff to Folgers, and maybe that's part of the problem. But I've had coffees that have had a flavor I've really enjoyed at a few places I wouldn't consider five star. Like LaMadelaine's French roast. (And this gal always thought she only liked light roasts!) Even at Applebee's the other day when the restaurant was FREEZING, I ordered a cuppa joe and it was quite nice. Tasty. Yummy even.

The best we've done here is make a decaf that actually didn't taste too much like decaf. So maybe I just haven't found the right beans yet. Perhaps I need to try some obscure East Timorese bean. If you experienced roasters have any suggestions, please let me know.

Meanwhile, I'll just sip on this nice, but not magnificent, java.

The Nativity Scene

2006-12-07T19:25:00.000-06:00

I have a sweet little nativity set. Safe for the little ones to play with, so they can act out the Christmas story. My granddaughter was visiting while the decorations were being taken out of storage and saw the pieces strewn about the table. "May I please arrange the nativity scene, Gram?" Of course you may! A short time later I got to see her handiwork. So perfect. There was no concern with "artistic design." In her mind there was only one option. Everyone looking in the same direction. Each one as close to the Christ child as possible. Is it any wonder Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it."

I hope that during this holiday season we can remember which direction to look and to Whom we should be as close as possible.

"Sovereign Lord, as you have promised,
you now dismiss your servant in peace.
For my eyes have seen your salvation,
which you have prepared in the sight of all people, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel."
Luke 2:29-32

My Snow Angel

2006-11-29T08:40:00.000-06:00

Tuesday morning, November 29, 1977. It started snowing, so husband stayed home from his usual sales job....many miles of travel, pretty far from home. Oh, and there weren't any cell phones back then. He started putting insulation in the basement.

Uh-oh. That HURT! YIKES! That hurt more. Oh, yeah, I'm supposed to time these contractions. Pretty easy, actually. THEY DON'T STOP! Hmmm....I had been praying, but still worrying, about aforementioned husband being 100 miles away, on the road, no way of contacting him. Did I mention there were no cell phones back then? Thank you, Lord. Why did I struggle with trusting You? Thank You for the snow that day!

About 14 hours later, there he was. The most perfect, beautiful little boy ever! And all that hair! It sure was worth all the pain....the hospital stay with a severe kidney infection....ankles the size of small tree trunks....or maybe large tree trunks. And then they took him to the nursery. EVIL PEOPLE. Taking a baby from his mommy. But that's the way it was done back then. Almost a week in the hospital. Gracious! What WERE they thinking???

Finally home with him. A sweet sister-in-law to help. Daddy as proud as punch! He helped a lot, too! Diapers to change. Clothes to change. He spit up constantly in large volumes. Sleep deprivation for 8 full weeks. Then, miracle of miracles, he slept through the night. And every night thereafter, except the one night he had an ear infection. And the nights when he was older that I really don't want to know about!

I can't believe it's 29 years later. And he's still the most perfect, beautiful little boy ever. Well, handsome young man is more accurate, I guess. Perfect? Pretty darn close. I wouldn't change a thing. If you know him, you know what I mean. Not just a biased mama speaking here!

Happy Birthday, dear son of mine, my precious snow angel.

Thanksgiving 2006

2006-11-25T11:18:00.000-06:00

Prayer of 3 (almost 4) -year-old grandson: "Dear God, Thank you for this food. And thank you for our pumpkin candles [one on each person's plate].... and thank you that we can take ours home with us if we want to." No one had mentioned taking them home, but I guess if it's mentioned in a prayer, it must be true!

Handmade card from 6-year-old granddaughter. Rose petals she gathered from the yard. Paper in beautiful colors cut to make a pretty scene with sky, sun, and a flower. Long time spent creating at the scrapbook table. "I made this for you to show you how much I love you!" Eyes are still tearing up over that one.

Blessed by the whole family and a special family friend around the table. So many people have lost loved ones this year. Some loved ones have left by choice, some passed from this world, some are sick and in the hospital. But for this year, I had all of my family sitting near me. I thank the Lord for this overwhelming blessing, and pray that I will continue to thank Him, even if next year this would change.

Abundant food on the table. A massive turkey, stuffing, potatoes of various colors, vegetables, bread, cranberry sauce, wine of various colors, coffee, cheesecake brulee for the family who doesn't like pumpkin of any color. (Strange folks are we!) So many people in the world are wondering if they will be able to feed their families today. We had more than we could eat, and leftovers for weeks to come.

Funny thought of the day: While preparing the turkey, I asked dear husband, "Whose idea was this anyway? Let's stick some bread up a turkey's rear end, roast it, and see how it tastes!"

Thanks to God for a dear man who follows me around the kitchen, cleaning up after me, and sometimes (even after all these years) flirting with me. YUM!

A beautiful view out the kitchen door. Maybe Texas doesn't get the fall colors of the Northeast, but in my little world yesterday, it was gorgeous. Picture above doesn't begin to do justice to my little Chinese Pistachio tree.

It's been my favorite holiday for many years. Still is!

I will praise God's name in song and glorify Him with thanksgiving.
Psalm 69:30

The Equalizer

2006-11-11T11:44:00.000-06:00

I'm a sucker for detective shows. Mystery shows. Spy shows. Cop shows. It probably started when I was about 9 years old. I read every Nancy Drew mystery in print. Then all the Hardy Boys. Graduated to Agatha Christie. Read every one. I still like to read the books, but now there are the TV shows. Good ones, bad ones, corny ones. Doesn't matter. If there's a mystery to be solved, I'm there, buddy.

So I'm watching a new HD version of an old Equalizer episode. That guy's good. He knows about stuff ordinary people don't know exist. And he's so calm. And classy. And that car! Ohmygoodness!

That's when the STUPID THOUGHT hit me. "If I'm ever in trouble- someone's threatening my family or me- THAT'S the guy I want helping me." It took my little pea brain a few minutes, but reality finally got through. I already have the TRUE EQUALIZER helping me. WOW! He knows EVERYTHING. He will NEVER make a mistake. He will NEVER underestimate the enemy.

So maybe nobody is trying to blackmail me, or threatening to kidnap my grandkids, or coming after me for protection money. But the dangers are out there. They threaten me and my family every day. And HE is watching. HE is protecting. Every second of every day.

I like MY Equalizer way better than that cool guy on TV!

Psalm 33:20

We wait in hope for the LORD;
HE is our help and our shield.

Time to Move on?

2006-10-31T16:50:00.000-06:00

The rumblings are there. Or perhaps the adamant statements. It's time to "move on." What does that mean? I challenge you to tell me! There are always those buzzwords and catch phrases, that we toss around like confetti at a parade, yet rarely think about what they really mean.

Maybe the personality type that is ready to move on is the personality type that is very vocal. Some of us could be in even a small group of people, and not open our mouths once. Just listen, soak, think; agree or disagree, or some of each.

If "moving on" means we don't talk about it anymore, pretend we don't still have issues to deal with, put it out of our minds so we don't have to deal with the ugliness, then NO! I am NOT ready to move on.

We've had a death in the family. Just a short month (or a very LONG month) ago. I still hurt; I still cry; I am still confused about some things. I am still grieving. Aren't you? Will it get better? Of course! But it takes TIME! And help and support. Not holding it all inside or brushing it under the carpet like nothing has happened. I need to be able to talk about "it" without feeling like people are thinking, "She needs to 'move on!' "

If "moving on" only means lessons on Sundays that don't completely revolve around the situation, then maybe I could agree. I need to hear something from God's Word that will encourage me. I need to hear about His grace. I need to hear about His love. Right now I've got a pretty good picture of His judgement. But we still need the occasional update. We need to see how God is working through this.

Am I the only one?

Psalm 143

1 O LORD, hear my prayer,
listen to my cry for mercy;
in your faithfulness and righteousness
come to my relief.

2 Do not bring your servant into judgment,
for no one living is righteous before you.

3 The enemy pursues me,
he crushes me to the ground;
he makes me dwell in darkness
like those long dead.

4 So my spirit grows faint within me;
my heart within me is dismayed.

5 I remember the days of long ago;
I meditate on all your works
and consider what your hands have done.

6 I spread out my hands to you;
my soul thirsts for you like a parched land.
Selah

7 Answer me quickly, O LORD;
my spirit fails.
Do not hide your face from me
or I will be like those who go down to the pit.

8 Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love,
for I have put my trust in you.
Show me the way I should go,
for to you I lift up my soul.

9 Rescue me from my enemies, O LORD,
for I hide myself in you.

10 Teach me to do your will,
for you are my God;
may your good Spirit
lead me on level ground.

11 For your name's sake, O LORD, preserve my life;
in your righteousness, bring me out of trouble.

12 In your unfailing love, silence my enemies;
destroy all my foes,
for I am your servant.

My fear...

2006-10-12T22:03:00.000-05:00

I'm struggling through a lot of issues lately. Under the circumstances, I guess we all are.

One of the issues is my personal life and growth. It had been playing in my mind something like...

If only I had more education...

If only I read more books...

If only I had a really useful talent...

If only...

Suddenly, those options don't seem to make much difference. It's not my education, knowledge, abilities that will make the difference. It's Jesus living His life through me. But how does that play out. What does that look like? How can I make sure I don't let my life become a source of pain and disappointment to those who love me, a disgrace to the name of Jesus Christ?

A discussion with incredibly patient husband and outrageously intelligent son helped me start to consider some possibilities.

I Peter 1: 13-16 Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed. As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: "Be holy, because I am holy."

Prepare our MINDS for action. Interesting. I always think of preparing our bodies for action. Minds are for thinking; bodies are for acting. I know the connection is there. Mental preparation for the sport or job. But I seldom think of it relative to spiritual preparation.

II Corinthinas 10:5 "..and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ."

It's overwhelming sometimes. EVERY thought. My mind goes a mile a minute and in so many directions. Usually all at the same time. And it will never get easier. Each step toward and with Him with brings more difficult situations and temptations.

So maybe it boils down to each and every decision I make. Each thought leading to each action. I find it frightening that the very next decision I make could be the first step to my own destruction. So how do we prepare our minds for action? How do we take captive EVERY thought?

Those are my musings for today. There will be more. Another day.

They gone!

2006-10-08T17:08:00.000-05:00

Sometimes life is good. The Yankees are going to grab some bench. Can't help but think it's due in part to Cap'n ARod (to whom the Rangers are still completely committed). We know in our hearts we can't always buy our way in (to whatever our goal may be), but it's nice to see it play out in real life.

And now we may have the opportunity to bring another former Yankees coach to Texas and keep the Rangers out of the playoffs. Buy me some peanuts and cracker jacks!

Student Safety Urban Educators Style

2006-10-04T16:16:00.000-05:00

The news from Lancaster, PA, is heartbreaking. Especially chilling when you've been to that beautiful part of the country. Seen the simple way of life.

But as always, when the horrific happens, there are those who have all the answers as to why it didn't have to happen. Why it couldn't happen on their watch. In this AP article: http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,217730,00.html we hear from the "experts." Translate that: people who keep our urban schools safe. Because we all know there is never a school shooting in an urban school. The violent occurences in the last few months couldn't have happened in places with metal detectors and armed security guards.

One of the alleged experts cited an urban attitude in which guns are looked at with greater suspicion than in rural areas, where you have "that God and country thing, the right to bear arms." Yeah. That's the problem. That "God and country thing." Because we all know, one of the most dangerous attitudes in the US today is that "God and country thing." Leads to violence everytime. And, of course, there isn't a problem with the right to bear arms in our metropolitan areas. Months go by without a single shooting. That only happens in the pastoral settings of places like Lancaster.

I'm sure every one room school house in Lancaster County will have security cameras and metal detectors installed next week. Yeah, in a community that shuns the use of modern amenities...like ELECTRICITY! Do we blame the community for their religious views. Does that qualify as "that God and country thing"?

While I take no issue with common sense practices for ours and our children's safety, we can't guarantee it. We can't always keep people from doing bad things, no matter how careful we are or how much prevention we use. The bottom line is that we don't have control. We can do our part, but sometimes evil still wins. Only one person can guarantee our safety, and He chooses sometimes to teach us in other ways.

Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain.
Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain.
Psalm 127:1

Reflections

2006-10-01T19:46:00.000-05:00

I almost missed it. There's a tree in the way.

I almost missed it. The man insists on closing the blinds before it's really dark outside.

But there was a small reflection, a poor imitation of the real thing. Just enough to pique my interest, so I went outside and looked. A lovely sunset, a tiny piece of the beauty of God's creation.

There are so many things blocking my view of Him. So many people doing things that get in the way. I'm glad there are reflections. Little reminders of the real thing.

Lord, thank you for the little reflections of Yourself that remind me to look beyond the trees and the blinds.

The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Psalm 19:1

Why?

2006-09-29T12:51:00.000-05:00

So why a blog?

Almost everyone I know well (all 3 of them) is blogging. My son writes like he's been in publishing for years. As usual...excels at all he wants to do. My daughter-in-law, who blew me away, since she has hidden this talent for the 6+ years I've known her. My husband...oh yeah...he's not blogging. I think he'd rather clean the garage than write something.

And, of course, no one is going to read this, or bookmark it, or care. But what an interesting way to put thoughts into words. So I'll see what happens. See if I have enough thoughts to keep this up more than a few days. See if it helps deal with the pains and struggles of this temporary (thank God!) life. See if it helps to share the joys and accomplishments, even if only with a few folks.

So why a zoo?

For some reason, the word zoo pops into my head everytime I hear the seldom used, but somehow very fitting, GramCrackers moniker. Since this isn't a subject oriented blog, zoo seemed appropriate. Each cage holding something different from the last....some creepy, some intriguing, some beautiful. All different shapes, sizes, colors. Each appealing or unappealing to different people in different ways.

So why not?