Random Thoughts of 2009

Linda at 2nd Cup of Coffee has this random thing going on and I thought - what the heck...I'm game!

1. Do you find it gross to share drinks with family? Friends?

Gross?  Not really - but I would prefer that each of us have our own, unless we're talking about James.  Seriously, would I find it gross sharing a drink with my husband??  Nope.

2. What have you learned this year? (You didn't see a question of that weight coming, did you? At least not for #2.)
I've learned that sometimes it doesn't matter how hard you want something or try for something, someone else is going to put in half the time or half the effort, and still get it.

3. When do you dismantle the Christmas decorations?
Around the 1st.  Makes it easy when you don't put up much.
4. Something you wish to accomplish before the end of 2009 is:
Well, since that's in a day, I'm going for nothing. Staying alive? :-)

5. How do you feel about winter (after Christmas)?
Winter is not my favorite month.  However, if I have to chose being cold or being hot (aka summer), then I'll chose Winter.
6. Have you participated in after-Christmas sales?
I have not.

7. Do you have plans for New Year's Eve?
My plans include staying awake!  I don't know what James & I will do. 

8. Is there anything special awaiting you in January?
Just a new year!

9. If your life this year was a movie, what category or genre would it be? (Romance, Comedy, Drama, Thriller, Suspense, Farcical, etc.)
It would be a little of all - Linda said a Dramacomedy or something similar to that. 
10. How much time per day do you spend blogging? Please do not lie. I will know.
Too much time on the computer, in general.  I don't spend too much time blogging or even reading blogs anymore.

11. Who runs your household?
This is a bad question, Linda.  (I'm agreeing with her - she said it was a bad question - why did she ask?) I don't know how to answer that.

12. Share one hope/dream for 2010.
I don't usually do hopes/dreams. I don't know why - it's sorta bothered me over the years, but not enough to become a dreamer/hoper (not to be confused with a hopper).  I am enjoying a season of hearing God speak to me and I long for that season to continue. 

Have you ever wondered...

...How people come up with the cute and creative blog titles? Yeah, me too. Obviously it's not a skill or talent God has bestowed on me. I figure this will be another random post but I already had one "random title"

First, HOW ARE YOU? I've missed you!

Work has gotten incredibly busy lately! I enjoy being busy but this has been nuts! I'm hoping this is a sign of job security! I've come home at night just pooped and haven't really done anything but sit on the couch and babbled some nonsense and then gone to bed. So, I guess what I'm saying is I haven't taken the time to comment on blogs. Shoot, I'm pretty far behind in reading them too.

We started Beth Moore's Esther: It's Tough Being a Woman bible study last week. Have you done this study? I LOVE IT! Each week, we're given a theme on how it's tough being a woman. This week's theme is "It's Tough Being a Woman in a World where Beauty is a Treatment". Last session I had everyone share what their one cosmetic item was that they couldn't live without or leave the house without and I was suprised at how many of us need some type of moisturizer (either for our face, body or lips)! I think one person said mascara, one for foundation and one for lipstick. If you'd have asked me that question 10 years ago, it would've been hard for me to narrow it down to one! Now, it's facial moisturizer...(It really needs to be mascara because I have NO eyelashes!)

I feel like I really scored on my new purchase! It's the first time I've ordered from the Betty Crocker store. Of course the fact that I don't cook like I should didn't deter me from buying something for the kitchen. It's a Nonstick Everyday Pan from Calphalon and it was a mere $39.99! I also bought a couple of spatulas for $3.99. I can never find flippers when I need them. When I went to pull info for the post, the site says the pan with the glass lid is sold out (already!)

I'm having the hardest time getting these pictures put up and moved around properly. Sorry if they are extra wonky.

Oh, one more thing! I got my daughter's "old" iPod and finally got some Cathy stuff on it. I downloaded Beth Moore's: David, A Heart Like His: Intimate Reflections on the Life of David. I loved that Beth read it! It made getting stuck in traffic bearable :-).

Ok, that's about it for now. Tell me, how are you?!?

A little rest and more

I guess I unwittingly took a little break from blogging, Facebooking and tweeting! Although, I have kept up with the blogs. If I'm able, I read them in the morning before my work day gets started. I can't view video or see a lot of pictures, but I still read! I think I'm back!

James & I had a long weekend last weekend (well it was even longer for James). On Friday, he drove down from Ft. Knox with our travel trailer. Saturday morning, we headed out (in separate cars) to a campground outside of Savannah, Georgia. Let me just tell you that was one long drive. (Luckily, I had a book on tape! I listened to Karen Kingsbury's Summer. Gosh it was sweet.) We (ok, he) got the trailer all whatever it is you do and we went and grabbed a bite to eat. We went to bed late and got up early so we could make the trek back to Birmingham. James had a gotten a flight back to Ft. Knox from Birmingham. I thought that was so sweet because he could've just flown out of Savannah. The trip was much shorter driving one car and James had 2 hours to wait for his flight. On Tuesday, he got to drive a gov't vehicle back down to Georgia! He'll be at Ft. Stewart until early July.

My little baby will be 14 on Monday! Last night was the 8th grade banquet. Her last Friday in middle school! (I'm really ready for middle school to be over. Quite honestly, I didn't enjoy it when I was in it and now I've lived through it 2 more times!) I can't believe she'll be 14 and starting high school soon.

My other daughter was in her first car accident on Cinqo de Mayo. She was driving a friend's car when she clipped another car. It's been quite an adventure and may I recommend you tell your child to NOT drive someone else's car OR allow a friend to drive her (his) car? If you need to know more about this ordeal, just let me know.

School will be out this Thursday! I like it when school is out, especially now that my girls are older. Traffic is much lighter and I don't have to wake kids up. Although, to be fair, I don't have to really worry about either of them in the morning anymore.

The girls & I are going to visit James next weekend in Savannah. When we bought our trailer, we bought one with "two bedrooms", figuring we'd travel with kids. Well, a year and a half later, we're finally all going to be in the trailer. (I've only spent 2 nights in it.) It'll be interesting, to say the least. Seriously, let's all pray for good weather next weekend (right now it sounds like someone is bowling outside). There will be a lot of bickering if we're all cramped in the trailer all weekend.

I'm going to have a couple of giveaways next week. Please come back and check for those. Also, I have an update on McShane!

So what's happenin' with you?

The Noticer - Book Review

The Noticer

Sometimes, all a person needs is a little perspective.

Jacketed Hardcover

By Andy Andrews

A new story of common wisdom from the bestselling author of The Traveler's Gift

Orange Beach, Alabama is a simple town filled with simple people. But like all humans on the planet, the good folks of Orange Beach have their share of problems - marriages teetering on the brink of divorce, young adults giving up on life, business people on the verge of bankruptcy, as well as the many other obstacles that life seems to dish out to the masses.

Fortunately, when things look the darkest - a mysterious man named Jones has a miraculous way of showing up. An elderly man with white hair, of indiscriminate age and race, wearing blue jeans, a white T-shirt and leather flip flops carrying a battered old suitcase, Jones is a unique soul. Communicating what he calls "a little perspective," Jones explains that he has been given a gift of noticing things that others miss. "Your time on this earth is a gift to be used wisely," he says. "Don't squander your words or your thoughts. Consider even the simplest action you take, for your lives matter beyond
measure…and they matter forever."

Jones speaks to that part in everyone that is yearning to understand why things happen and what we can do about it.

Like The Traveler's Gift, The Noticer is a unique narrative is a blend of fiction, allegory, and inspiration. Gifted storyteller Andy Andrews helps us see how becoming a "noticer" just might change a person's life forever.

My review:

This was my first time to read anything by Andy Andrews. I was tickled to see he is from Orange Beach. I like seeing local Alabama folk in print! Plus, I've spent a good bit of time at Orange Beach and it allowed me to visualize the scenes.

I think the publisher gives enough information about this book without my adding to it. It's another gem of a book filled with useful information about how to live life. All you need is a little perspective and Mr. Andrews shows, through a story, how to get that little bit of perspective.

The book is also launching a website, The Noticer Project. It's a worldwide movement to "notice" the five most influential people in your life. The site says:

The important thing is that by noticing those who have made a difference for you, you not only acknowledge their contribution, but you may gain a new perspective on your own life.

Who will you notice? What area of your life do you need perspective? Maybe you're a parent and you want to make sure your child(ren) have perspective. This is a good book to read and pass along or buy for other people. It's a book you can either devour and take your time to read so you don't miss the treasures of wisdom hidden. I started out devouring the book and then I slowed down because I wanted to savor the words I was reading.

Check out the book and check out the website. You'll be glad you did.

A Bunch of Random Things!

Hello my dear bloggy peeps! Oh how I have missed you. I can't believe how long it's been since I posted a blog.

James was home for a week and we were busy doing stuff (nothing really just not being on the computer). We did run up to Memphis to visit McShane & Mike and go to the Super Chevy Show. We went to Beale Street Friday evening and that was pretty neat. There were street performers and live music and LOTS of food (and even more alcohol with the biggest drinks I've ever seen - one size came with a strap! I kid you not)! The racing part of the Super Chevy Show got rained out, but not before I got a nice sunburned red neck (just my neck, thank you irony) and blisters on my feet. BUT, I tried really hard not to complain because the boys were having fun.

We had a neat prayer & worship gathering at church last weekend, where we kicked off a 90 Day period of seeking God as His Church with this question: What area of Birmingham are you leading us to adopt for 25 years? My oldest daughter was part of the worship team and she knocked my socks off. My youngest daughter sat with me and I enjoyed some sweet fellowship time with her. Does your church have prayer gatherings? I love them!

Here are my thoughts on cuticle care (here's the really random part of the post)...I work with paper and I type, so I have dry fingers and I can't grow my nails. I don't use nail polish because it seems to make my nails peel and break. Over the last several months, I started having a problem with hangnails, extremely dry nail beds and nails that split. It was gross (and painful). I bought a cuticle oil stick and started using it several times a day at work. At home, I have a container of cuticle oil stuff that I use. Oh my goodness, let me tell you my nails have never looked better! There's truth in the statement "The best way to make sure your nails are healthy is to moisturize them daily, and care for your cuticles." I have had to cut my nails back because they started growing too long, I haven't had one single hang nail nor have my nails broken. It's amazing, I tell you. If you have problems with your nails, try this remedy!

Work has been hectic and busy. Oh, I bought myself a Nintendo DS and I've been mastering my Diner Dash skills, which might also explain why I haven't been around...We just finished our study on To Live is Christ, the life & ministry of Paul (WOW). We'll be starting Esther, It's Tough Being a Woman the end of next month. We're going through Measureless Love which God is using to really speak to me about looking to other people for affirmation and adoration. Do you think He gets tired of having to repeat the same message over and over? I'm so glad He loves me!

What's going on with all of you? I have missed you!!

Are you a Human Doormat?

Obviously this rings true for me to some degree or I wouldn't be posting it. I have trouble with being passive aggressive or just being a doormat. I cannot seem to figure out the fine line of being assertive and being a ****** (you know...). You know how Paul had the thorn in his side that God would not take away? Well I have a few of those and this is one of them. (Although, to be fair, I've never asked God to take it away. Maybe that's why the prayer hasn't been answered!)

I thought I'd share this little article with you because maybe it reasonates with you as well.

Today's Meditation - Are you a human doormat?
by Meditations, on Thu Feb 26, 2009 9:49am PST
By Jane Powell - http://www.meditationsforwomen.com/"Assertiveness is a matter of self-respect."When you trust your assertiveness, you have the ability to express yourself and the ability to communicate your feelings, wants and needs. You are less dependent on others and more in control of your own life.When you assert yourself, you make your own choices. You make room for your confidence to explode. Practice confident assertion by saying, "Yes" to the things you want to do and, "No" to the things you don't.Don’t be afraid or feel guilty for asserting yourself. You have nothing to lose. You will only become stronger and more self-sufficient and in turn your self-respect and self-worth will shine!©

Meditations for Women

“I assure you: If anyone says to this mountain, 'Be lifted up and thrown into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. Therefore, I tell you, all the things you pray and ask for—believe that you have received them, and you will have them." Mark 11:23-24 (HCSB)

Hindsight: A Letter to me at 14

The challenge was on Oprah a few years back. I took that challenge and decided to post it here. So, are you up for giving your younger self advice? What advice would you give to your “younger” self in a letter?

Dear Cathy:
I know you don't like to listen to grown ups and what they have to offer, but I can only hope as I am you as a grown up, that you will listen to me. You're 14 right now and you have your whole world ahead of you. I know what life is going to be like when you're 38, and honey there are just some things you need to not do!

Keep God first. You're active in youth at Church right now. Don't lose it. You keep God first right now, and most of the things we're going to go through later on wouldn't have happened.

QUIT SMOKING. Ugh, you don't really smoke much right now and it won't be so hard. In a few more years, you'll be glad you did. Believe me when I tell you that it's really hard to quit when you've been doing it for so long. (I finally quit around June 8, 2007 and it's been rough!)

Keep on saying no to drugs. You know it's the one thing I said actually said no to and I'm so glad I did. We'll drink some and sometimes to extremes, but drinking is never a problem for us.
When you start losing weight this year, work on keeping it off. Keep on exercising and make it part of your everyday life.

That guy at Aladdin's Castle that you think is wonderful. He's going to be your first husband. I'm not sure if you should go down that path or not. As long as you'll wind up where I am right now, you shouldn't. But, I don't think it works that way. I'm sorry to say that when you're walking down the aisle, 3 days before your 19th birthday, you're going to regret it and wish you weren't. We don't stay married toooooooo long. Hey, on the bright side, we went to school and learned how to type. This will be important. Maybe you should take typing in high school and not worry about failing or passing the class. Just do it!

In your junior year of high school, there will be a Christmas party for the Color Guard at the teacher's house. GO TO THE PARTY. Do not, and I stress, DO NOT go with Mireille to see that guy. That guy is a jerk. Because of the events of that night, you will battle with many demons for many years. Eventually, you will ask God to forgive you, and He will (see, keep God first and this wouldn't even be part of the hindsight), but it's a long and hard battle that you aren't going to share with many folks. You'll regret the events of that night forever. (Luckily, later on, you'll forgive yourself and God gave you a huge cup of Grace for that night too and forgave you.)

You're going to become guys' best friend. They will come to you to talk about their girlfriends. Just deal with it. It's not that you aren't good enough for any of them. It's that you're a good listener and you seem to know what to say. This won't really change through the years. Many times, you'll have more male friends than female friends.

When you and Tim break up, you're going to meet a guy named David. Now, listen very carefully, the two of you will get married. It's not a bad marriage, although ya'll don't communicate well. But, you will get divorced. The divorce will be painful. You will do everything you can to make it work but it's just not going to happen. But, here is why you have to marry this guy. You have two beautiful daughters who are your heart and soul. Oh, I just can't tell you how wonderful these girls are. They are so talented in many ways and they just bring joy to you. Oh yeah, sometimes you're going to feel like you're at your wits' end, but then one of them will do something so incredibly sweet, and it will melt you all over.

During this marriage, you will discover the Internet and chat rooms. Listen to me right now...any man you meet who knows you're married and still tries to sweet talk you isn't worth the time it takes to type hello. (If you keep God in that number 1 position, this will be moot.) If you would talk to your husband about these needs you have, you wouldn't have talked to this guy in the first place. That makes us examine the next point.

Learn to communicate your needs and emotions. Be able to tell people no and not feel like they are taking advantage of you, because you know what? THEY ARE! But, dear sweet young Cathy, you are allowing them to do so. Close that open wall up and build a beautiful door which only you can open. Oh you can be such a sucker...don't be a sucker Cathy.

You deserve better than having an affair. You are better than that. I know at 14 you think I'm insane even bringing this up, but trust me, it will become an issue. You deserve someone who will love you no matter where you are. You deserve someone who will hold your hand, call you and not hide the conversation, who will tell folks "Can I call you back? Cathy's on the phone." Cathy you are a wonderful person. All the good things you think you deserve? You do deserve them. (Hey look, again, if you keep God in that #1 position, this won't happen either.)

Sex. I've brought this up a lot, huh? You know what, it's not what's missing from your life. It's not what is going to make you happy. That hole you keep trying to fill is a God shaped hole and only He can fill it.

You know that little voice that you hear but then ignore? Learn to just listen to it. I can't tell you how many times that little voice is right. You're going to ignore her and be sorry. And you're going to hear her taunting you saying, "I TOLD YOU SO!!!!!!!"

Here's one thing I don't know if I should tell you or not. Your brother...you aren't going to believe this one....next year when he graduates from High School, the two of you are going to become best friends. I know it's shocking!!! He's still going to act like he's going to hit you and then really do it. For some reason, that never changes. Cherish him. Figure out how to save some of those long and crazy voice mail messages he leaves, because he won't be around to leave them when you're older. Oh Cathy you're going to miss him so much. Your whole world will change on March 28, 2002.

It's going to be hard and at first you just won't believe you're going to make it. Just keep on taking it one day at a time. Actually at first, it's one breath at a time. You'll make it through. You have to because shortly after this your mom is going to get really sick. She has to have you be strong for her. You make it through that too. See, you're amazing really at all you can do. You don't think you are sometimes, but you are.

At some point in 2004, when you least expect it, you're going to fall in love with this man named James. DON'T RUN!!!!!!!!!!!!! You'll spend months trying to run from him because of all your past mistakes. But don't do it. He's not going to let you get away. And YOU DESERVE HIM!!! This man is everything you have ever wanted in a husband and soul mate. Neither of you think anything will ever come out of your relationship because you're just friends, but it will. I can't tell you how much you are going to love him. I can't even find the right words to express myself in today's world about him. How can I tell you?? I asked him one day how he put up with me and all my quirks (we have quite a few) and he said he didn't put up with me. He just loved me.

Cathy, he's wonderful. He makes the other two marriages and all the heartbreaks in between worth it because he is the one you will go on with for the rest of your life.

You're going to have a bumpy road, Cathy, but if you'll keep this advice with you, you will be ok. All those little bumps and valleys and peaks make you who you are today. Keep seeing the beauty in everything and in everyone. Keep your wonderful sense of humor. Life is pretty funny, even when we don't think it is. You have a way of making people smile when they didn't think they could. You deserve all the good that happens in your life.

Above all, dear Cathy, keep God #1 in your life. I promise if you do this, many of the things I have told you about won't even be an issue. Even if you falter and slide away, He is going to open His arms for you to come running back into. Yippee!! He forgives you so much easier than you will forgive yourself. Good thing is that He is there to help you on your journeys.
Life is beautiful, Cathy, experience it!

I love you, don't ever ever forget that!!

“The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.” Zephaniah 3:17

Let's bathe them in prayer...

I'm not a politician, nor do I have staunch political views. On this day, however, I want to be obedient to prayer for our incoming leadership. 1 Timothy 2:2 says: "Pray for rulers and for all who have authority so that we can have quiet and peaceful lives full of worship and respect for God."

Max Lucado has a prayer guide for people on his website. I encourage you to go there, if you aren't sure how to pray for our leaders, and follow the guide. (That's what I've done!) Remember, good things happen when people pray :-).

Also, you are given an opportunity to add your own prayer at the Living Proof Ministries blog.

I know today is a huge day in our Nation's history. I am not sure why I feel so compelled to pray for our leadership but I am and I want to share these feelings with others. Sometimes, I think we forget to pray for the ones who lead and guide us, and I just want to help spread the word.

Today, I pray for our incoming president the following:

Our fight is not against people on earth, President Elect Obama, but against the rulers and authorities and the powers of this world’s darkness, against the spiritual powers of evil in the heavenly word. President Elect Obama, Prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Remember that God will always give what is right to his people who cry to him night and day, and he will not be slow to answer them.

I pray that the God of peace will give you every good thing you need so you do what He wants. Father, Keep them safe from the evil one.

Jesus precious name I pray, Amen.

(Eph. 6:12, Eph. 6:19, Luke 18:7, Hebrews 13:20 ~ NCV)

“The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.” Zephaniah 3:17

Let's have us a JESUS-Year!!

I really wish I could come up with some witty title that might just capture someone's attention, but I can't...(Isn't this a great picture of what you think Jesus looks like?)

Anyway, Mama Beth and the folks at Living Proof Ministries wants us to have a great JESUS year! On the 1st & 15th of each month, we are to check in with a new scripture that we will memorize or meditate on.

I felt led to work on this verse because I feel like I've been fighting this battle for the past several months - especially in my marriage - and if you've read any of my posts from the last two or three months, you have seen how God has been guiding me in this battle! I feel like I should know where to find this verse and what it says (since I've been referring to it!). (I think I can combine this with Memory Monday :-).)

Ephesians 6:12 (Today's New International Version)
For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

I cracked up when I read the verse in The Message:

Ephesians 6:12 (The Message)
A Fight to the Finish 10-12

And that about wraps it up. God is strong, and he wants you strong. So take everything the Master has set out for you, well-made weapons of the best materials. And put them to use so you will be able to stand up to everything the Devil throws your way. This is no afternoon athletic contest that we'll walk away from and forget about in a couple of hours. This is for keeps, a life-or-death fight to the finish against the Devil and all his angels.

Don't you just love that? Personally, if I was in an athletic contest, I wouldn't forget it in a couple of hours because I'd probably be half dead ;).

__________

We had a very low key last night. I had ordered several movies from Blockbuster.com but they didn't come in time to watch yesterday. I guess Friday night will be movie night! We watched Law & Order and CSI (Las Vegas & NY) and looked at concession trailers. At midnight, James had trouble getting the the champagne bottle opened and wished me a Merry Christmas...I was confuzzled by that. Maybe he'd already drank all the champagne and I didn't know. lol

Today we're going to have lunch with my mom at "the Legion". We'll all return asthmatic from all the ciggy smoke, but she'll be glad we were with her, and that's more important (for reals). (And I used to help make non-smokers asthmatic and was glad for that opportunity.) We'll be eating a traditional New Year's day meal of pork, black-eyed peas (for luck?) and greens (for wealth?) and then other unhealthy things that don't follow with starting the year with a healthy meal!

I hope you're having a great day and I recommend checking out Living Proof Ministries site if you haven't already done so.

“The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.” Zephaniah 3:17

Uh-oh Charlie Brown!

Poor Charlie Brown! He's got a sad little tree and no gifts.

Reminds me of someone else I know...ME! We have a tree with ONE ornament: Starbucks coffee cup that Kristen was given. I had two gifts from my grandmother under the tree, but there was food inside the gift (I didn't know), and my dog attacked and destroyed the bags trying to get the cookies out. We might be able to do some shopping tonight, but I gotta admit, I'm really tired!

Hey, if nothing else, there's always shopping on Christmas eve...at least I'll be off that day *sigh*. The girls are getting $$ but I still have to see what Santa will bring them for their stockings. And then I have to buy my mom's gift and get something for James. I think his nephew and brother will be at the house on Christmas, so we need something for them too! (I'm really trying to remain calm. It's only presents, for Pete's sake!) (I've never waited this late before and wouldn't have wait this late now but there were a few circumstances beyond my control - like no $$$!!!) *sigh* breathe in breathe out....

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

“The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.” Zephaniah 3:17

Secrets and Taboo Topics

I've just stumbled upon two great articles that seem to speak directly to me. (The links are below.)

You know, I share...a lot...and sometimes too much...but I guess I feel like that by being open and sharing, I'm helping someone with the same problem or issue that may not feel like she (or he) can talk about. I'm pretty sure there's a lot of this "kind of stuff" going on nowadays than in previous days. Look at some of the topics these ladies are ministering to: Pat Layton, Kay Arthur, Ruth Graham.

As I have somewhat shared in recent weeks, my marriage is struggling. Honestly, that's the best way I can say it. I don't know what is going to happen. One of the things my husband told me was that sometimes he doesn't want to be married. I had to laugh because how many times have you felt that way? Or looked at your kids and thought...ugh really? Do I have to keep them? I asked him, "Don't you realize how many people feel that way?" He said he didn't. There are certainly times I don't want to be married but I made a commitment to God and to him, and darnit I want to keep that commitment! (BTW, I thank all of you for the prayers and the words of encouragement you've provided along the way. I'm believing God and trusting Him to do what is best. Talk about crying out to Jesus...shew!)

So, without further babble from me, here are the links to the two different articles I have found really interesting today. I sent the one about men to my husband, because maybe he doesn't realize that other men think the same way he does about things. The other article is pretty self-explanatory so there's no need to delve into that. (God has given me a sense of discretion, which at times I use.) If it's something you want to talk about, by all means, please email me! I'd love to talk to someone who has had (or has) the same experience. (These are both articles from Redbook, which I don't think I've ever really looked at. )

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jer. 29:11

Oh the places my mind can (and will) go...

(This picture has nothing to do with the post - I just wanted to share a cute picture of my dog!)

I have all these deep thoughts running through my mind and I'm trying to decide what to do with them. Oh, they aren't like the once obsessive (a/k/a beating a dead horse) thoughts, but thoughts that are sort of swirling around. The part of "what to do with them" is really more of a "should I put these thoughts on this blog for others to see?".

I've come to realize that I need some real life friends. It's not like I don't have any friends, but I don't really seem to have anyone I can truly share myself with. There are things I need (and want) to discuss and with my current group of friends, it's just not happening, nor is it going to. I don't know if we all have on our "church masks" and just want everyone to think everything is GREAT or if we're just afraid to really open up to each other, possibly for fear of what the other might really think of us. (Well, see, I don't really have this problem. My problem is sometimes sharing too much with people, although with Mama Siesta's help, I've been learning some discretion....you know...) But, I'm having things go on in my life and I just need to have someone I can talk to!!

I do have a husband and he's a wonderful man, but sometimes I feel the need to talk about things happening in our lives with someone other than him. You know that feeling? Where you want to talk to your spouse about things, but it only seems to make things worse rather than better? I mean, he told me a few months ago that he's been upset with me over a year (probably longer) and he didn't tell me because he didn't want to upset me. Now, that's just frustrating...

My situation (of having difficulty finding Christian friends with whom I can share intimate details of my life) sort of reminds me what I imagine people face when they are trying to decide if they want to participate in the Celebrate Recovery ministry at our church. Folks just don't want to admit they have habits, hurts and hangups. We're all just happy plastic people, acting life nothing is ever wrong. Folks don't want to be one of "those" people. Well I'm not one of those plastic people. I know I have issues galore and there is only One who can help me with them.

This morning, while I'm standing on the stage, singing (sorta) with the worship choir, I found out that one of our church members died. It was all I could do to hold it together while I was up there. I felt like I was sucker punched! Fred was a very integral part of our Celebrate Recovery ministry and he was our CR Leader's boyfriend. We just had a CR leader's meeting last weekend, where I sat with Fred and joked with him. When prayer time came, I was able to ask what happened. Fred, 50, died of a massive heart attack while he was waxing his car. (When I told my husband, he said "guess I won't wax my car then" ha ha :.) I reconcile myself knowing that he is at Home now. I also know he had a great testimony for the Lord and he used that testimony to help bring others to Christ and to battle their addictions.

*shaking head* It's been quite a day. This morning Pastor Paul was talking about sometimes things appear to get worse before they get better, but to the Lord, He does His best work in us when we are broken. Can I get an Amen?? He's loves us broken folks!

I guess I just need some pick me up today. I need to be still and listen to what my Father has to say to me. Give it all to Him and then listen to what He has to say. He's really got the best advice ;). Thanks for sticking around and reading this rambly ramble! (Maybe I should look down at that passage of scripture below...)

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jer. 29:11

I probably shouldn't have...

First of all, I just have to say that there is a darn Woody woodpecker eating the wood on my house RIGHT NOW! Knock knock knock, he goes and GRRRRRRRRRRR, I go! I don't know how to get rid of him and he needs to GO AWAY!!!

Anyway, on to the post...Well, it's Saturday. I wanted to sleep in today but that wasn't in the books for me. My oldest told me yesterday that under NO CIRCUMSTANCES was she going to pick up my youngest from the youth leader's house (Ms. Pam who is FABULOUS!). Guess what time she had to be picked up? EIGHT EIGHT EIGHT in the morning! (I'm really going crazy on the CAPS, huh? I think it's Woody. He's frustrating me.)

*breathe in breathe out*

I woke up at 8:00 and threw on jammie bottoms, a sweatshirt over my tshirt, my black puppy paw socks and my knockoff dark blue crocs. I'm pretty certain I didn't brush my hair. I drove over to Ms. Pam's and went inside, had some breakfast and then we headed back home. Well, about an hour later, Kristen decided she wanted to go over to a friend's house, so we head back out. I'm thinking while I'm out, I'll stop at the library. I want some new books to read. So, being ever fearful I'll embarrass a child, I ask Kristen if I look ok to go to the library. She said she saw nothing wrong with how I looked. (Side note - make Kristen an eye appt.)

Well, I did go to the library, and I did get some books. But, in retrospect, I really shouldn't have gone out in public, but I did! What if someone nominated me to be on What Not to Wear and there was some secret footage happening? Oh the horror at being photographed in this "outfit". Does anyone else ever go out looking this un-put-together?

Hey, I got a nifty little email and I'd like to share it with you. I'm not real sure how I got the email, but I'm glad I did. It was an email for a free book! (Did they see me at the library and thought maybe I should just stay home???) The email recommends sharing the link for the book, so here you go! Jumble Pie by Melanie Lynne Hauser -- FUN! I just got my book (hey Woody isn't bugging me - my writing has calmed down a bit), but I haven't started reading yet. I hope you like it!

I guess that's all I got for now. After Tim Gunn's Guide to Style (oh he'd be ashamed of me too) is over, I'm thinking it'll be time to curl up with a book and read.

I hope you're having a great Saturday! How I wish I could be hanging out with you. (I'm certain I need some real life friends to hang out with...)

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jer. 29:11

Tagged!

I've been tagged by TCKK so I'm gonna give this a whirl. (But, I don't think I have 7 peeps I can tag to carry this forward.)

Seven weird or random things about me (wow, I'm glad it's only 7):

1. Last time I did one of these, I had a hard time coming up with 10 but as I read other people's lists, I kept saying "oh yeah, I do that too". I guess I'm a little more random or weird than I think (or like to admit).

2. My whole house can be turned topsy turvy but my silveware drawer will be in immaculate condition. Everything must be facing the same way and be in there neatly.

3. After a shower, I have to close the shower curtain. It'll bug me if I leave it open. (This goes for the shower curtain in my girls' bathroom...if I go in there, I have to close it. If I come to your house and it's open, I'll close it. Just doing my part to help out - you know?)

4. I change into my jammies as soon as I get home, and then I won't leave. If I have something to do after work, I try to just stay out till it's time to show up.

5. As confident as I might seem in a small group of folks, I'm just that "unconfident" in a big group of people. I'm not shy but I am not overly confident either! In a big group setting, I almost become like a wallflower.

6. I can't seem to finish this because I keep watching TV. So there are times it takes me forever to do something b/c the idiot box keeps distracting me.

7. I don't like to have "new" email messages in my inbox. I don't necessarily read the messages, but I have to mark them as read. It's really annoying that I do that because sometimes I overlook things because I think I've read them when in fact I haven't!

Cathy - I did it! Now, who can I tag?

DeeDee
Patty
Kim
Lisa
Mary
Sallie


Ok, that's 6 and I don't know if any of them will do it!

Thank you for thinking of me and including me, Cathy!


For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jer. 29:11

Internet Cafe Devotion: Romans 8:28

Cafe Chat


And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28

"What is one thing that happened in your life that initially may have been a bad or painful situation that you saw God work together for good? Please give details…"

Sometimes, when you're going through a situation, you just can't see what could possibly be good about it - at all! Much less, you don't see what can be used for God's glory, especially if you aren't in relationship with Him.

I mean, who really looks at a divorce and thinks "This is for God's glory"? Or, can you really look at a time in your life when you were so far away from even wanting to acknowledge God really loves you that you wanted to even think about the remote possibility of what was going on was for God's glory? What about the death of a loved one? But! Wait! There's is GLORY in EVERYTHING HE DOES!!!!!!!!!! Oh my goodness is there glory! GLORY!

I have such a testimony for God's glory. Have you been through something really bad? So have I! You know what God does? He has me use that experience to relate to you and show you what He can do. If all that I've been through makes a difference for just one person (although, I really wish it would be more, but that's just me, we know how heaven rejoices when even 1 sheep is found) to turn from a life without Christ to a life WITH HIM, holy SMOKES! I'm there!!

I know I'm not really saying anything about a specific time that God has used for His glory. Maybe it's because I can now see what He uses in my life (past and current) to relate to other folks and how He's able to show His greatness and His glory through those situations. I fall short all the time but His mercies and His grace are new every morning!!! Yippee!!!

Thank you, Lord, for loving me even when I didn't love myself. Thank you for continually knocking on my heart and softening me up to the point where I finally let you in. I thank you too for taking away the shame I felt over my past and my being able to use it to glorify You! Thank you for the wonderful people you have placed in my life that help me follow You and see You. You are a wonderfully gracious Father and I love you so much!



For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jer. 29:11

Hindsight

A couple of years ago, I took part in a challenge when I blogged at yahoo 360. My friend Mary at http://www.maryrsnyder.com/ just posted a blog about her younger self and it reminded me of this post from Sept. 2006:


Dear Cathy:
I know you don't like to listen to grown ups and what they have to offer, but I can only hope as I am you as a grown up, that you will listen to me. You're 14 right now and you have your whole world ahead of you. I know what life is going to be like when you're 38 and honey there are just some things you need to not do!
Keep God first. You're active in youth at Church right now. Don't lose it. You keep God first right now, and most of the things we're going to go through later on wouldn't have happened.
QUIT SMOKING. Ugh, you don't really smoke much right now and it won't be so hard. In a few more years, you'll be glad you did. Believe me when I tell you that it's really hard to quit when you've been doing it for so long.
Keep on saying no to drugs. You know it's the one thing I said actually said no to and I'm so glad I did. We'll drink some and sometimes to extremes, but drinking is never a problem for us.
When you start losing weight this year, work on keeping it off. Keep on exercising and make it part of your every day life.
On your 15th birthday, don't go to the golf course. Save your virginity for someone special.
That guy at Aladdin's Castle that you think is wonderful. He's going to be your first husband. I'm not sure if you should go down that path or not. As long as you'll wind up where I am right now, you shouldn't. But, I don't think it works that way. I'm sorry to say that when you're walking down the aisle, 3 days before your 19th birthday, you're going to regret it and wish you weren't. We don't stay married toooooooo long. Hey, on the bright side, we went to school and learned how to type. This will be important. Maybe you should take typing in high school and not worry about failing or passing the class. Just do it!
In your junior year of high school, there will be a Christmas party for the Color Guard at the teacher's house. GO TO THE PARTY. Do not, and I stress, DO NOT go with Mireille to see that guy. That guy is a jerk. Because of the events of that night, you will battle with many demons for many years. Eventually, you will ask God to forgive you, and He will (see, keep God first and this wouldn't even be part of the hindsight), but it's a long and hard battle that you aren't going to share with many folks. You'll regret the events of that night forever.
You're going to become guys' best friend. They will come to you to talk about their girlfriends. Just deal with it. It's not that you aren't good enough for any of them. It's that you're a good listener and you seem to know what to say. This won't really change through the years. Many times, you'll have more male friends than female friends.
When you and Tim break up, you're going to meet a guy named David. Now, listen very carefully, the two of you will get married. It's not a bad marriage, although ya'll don't communicate well. But, you will get divorced. The divorce will be painful. You will do everything you can to make it work but it's just not going to happen. But, here is why you have to marry this guy. You have two beautiful daughters who are your heart and soul. Oh, I just can't tell you how wonderful these girls are. They are so talented in many ways and they just bring joy to you. Oh yeah, sometimes you're going to feel like you're at your wits' end, but then one of them will do something so incredibly sweet, and it will melt you all over.
During this marriage, you will discover the Internet and chat rooms. Listen to me right now...any man you meet who knows you're married and still tries to sweet talk you isn't worth the time it takes to type hello. (If you keep God in that number 1 position, this will be moot.) If you would talk to your husband about these needs you have, you wouldn't have talked to this guy in the first place. That makes us examine the next point..
Learn to communicate your needs and emotions. Be able to tell people no and not feel like they are taking advantage of you, because you know what? THEY ARE! But, dear sweet young Cathy, you are allowing them to do so. Close that open wall up and build a beautiful door which only you can open. Oh you can be such a sucker...don't be a sucker Cathy.
You deserve better than having an affair with a married man. You are better than that. I know at 14 you think I'm insane even bringing this up, but trust me, it will become a huge issue. You deserve someone who will love you no matter where you are. You deserve someone who will hold your hand, call you and not hide the conversation, who will tell folks "Can I call you back? Cathy's on the phone." Cathy you are a wonderful person. All the good things you think you deserve? You do deserve them. (Hey look, again, if you keep God in that #1 position, this won't happen either.)
Sex. I've brought this up a lot, huh? You know what, it's not what's missing from you life. It's not what is going to make you happy. Oh yeah, it feels great, but it feels even better with the right person.
You know that little voice that you hear but then ignore? Learn to just listen to it. I can't tell you how many times that little voice is right. You're going to ignore her and be sorry. And you're going to hear her taunting you saying, "I TOLD YOU SO!!!!!!!"
Here's one thing I don't know if I should tell you or not. Your brother...you aren't going to believe this one....next year when he graduates from High School, the two of you are going to become best friends. I know it's shocking!!! He's still going to act like he's going to hit you and then really do it. For some reason, that never changes. Cherish him. Figure out how to save some of those long and crazy voice mail messages he leaves, because he won't be around to leave them when you're older. Oh Cathy you're going to miss him so much. Your whole world will change on March 28, 2002. It's going to be hard and at first you just won't believe you're going to make it. Just keep on taking it one day at a time. Actually at first, it's one breath at a time. You'll make it through. You have to because shortly after this your mom is going to get really sick. She has to have you be strong for her. You make it through that too. See, you're amazing really at all you can do. You don't think you are sometimes, but you are.
At some point in 2004, when you least expect it, you're going to fall in love with this man named James. DON'T RUN!!!!!!!!!!!!! You'll spend months trying to run from him because of all your past mistakes. But don't do it. He's not going to let you get away. And YOU DESERVE HIM!!! This man is everything you have ever wanted in a husband and soul mate. Neither of you think anything will ever come out of your relationship because you're just friends, but it will. I can't tell you how much you are going to love him. I can't even find the right words to express myself in today's world about him. How can I tell you?? I asked him one day how he put up with me and all my quirks (we have quite a few) and he said he didn't put up with me. He just loved me. Cathy, he's wonderful. He makes the other two marriages and all the heartbreaks in between worth it because he is the one you will go on with for the rest of your life.
You're going to have a bumpy road, Cathy, but if you'll keep this advice with you, you will be ok. All those little bumps and valleys and peaks make you who you are today. Keep seeing the beauty in everything and in everyone. Keep your wonderful sense of humor. Life is pretty funny, even when we don't think it is. You have a way of making people smile when they didn't think they could. You deserve all the good that happens in your life.
Above all, dear Cathy, keep God #1 in your life. I promise if you do this, many of the things I have told you about won't even be an issue. Even if you falter and slide away, He is going to open His arms for you to come running back into. Yippee!! He forgives you so much easier than you will forgive yourself. Good thing is that He is there to help you on your journeys.
Life is beautiful, Cathy, experience it! I love you, don't ever ever forget that!!
Cathy






For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jer. 29:11

Saturday...

I started out the day just knowing I was going to blog. I had a blog in mind; all I had to do was just write it. I've been on the computer 3/4 of today ~ I had the time. But, the blog I'm writing now is not the one I had in mind. It's been a weird day for me. Has it been for you too?

For some reason, it hit me today that I'm just lonely. And finally vocalizing that just made me really sad. Then, you gotta know what happened next...Oh, yes, pity and self-doubt. I'm sure I make a great target for satan. I just give him so much material to use.

Let's dig into the married/lonely part for a few. So, I'm married woman. I'm on my third marriage...for some reason, each husband has had to travel extensively for job/career. Is it me?? The schedule James is having to keep right now is making communication very difficult. Not only is finding time difficult, but I'm finding myself so darn insecure about us too. Being insecure makes me question everything and I can't stand that! UGH! When did I turn into THAT person? So I am NOT going to be that person!

How do I not be her, though? Well, most importantly I remember that God makes everything wonderful and He made me...that makes me wonderful. He knows the plans He's made for me. And as basic as this promise is - it's the best one I remembered - Jesus loves me! Yes, even me. Such a lowly and unworthy sinner who only by the perfect love of Jesus taking my sin on the cross - in His death and resurrection - am I able to claim the promises of my God as my own. All the seeds He keeps tossing at me, I keep watering with my tears. But, for HIS glory, and HIS glory alone, will those seeds flourish into something beautiful and fruitful.

In all that I do, I will do for my Lord - whether it's keeping a calm attitude when my almost 16 yo daughter is driving or driving in traffic; not having "what if" thoughts when I don't hear from James; using my time wisely at home and at work; trying to keep a house that is pleasing to God and won't embarrass me or anyone else; leading a bible study group; attending church and church activities; with all that I am and all that I have - I want to be pleasing to the Lord.

Colossians 3:17 says: "And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." YES!

Earlier today when I was giving satan all sorts of ammunition to use, I should have listened to Voice of Truth from the Casting Crowns. It usually tears me up (in a positive way) and it would've been a good time tearing up today.

What I don't understand is why all these truths won't stick in my head and hide in my heart? Why does seem I have to relearn this every day?? His mercies are new every morning - does my mind think it has to renew every morning too?

Ok well the day didn't stay blecky. I had a Mommy / Kristen time. We went to eat at Moe's (WELCOME TO MOEEEEEEEEESSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!), walked around Hobby Lobby and had alot of fun taking pictures with the props (errrr...inventory), and had a root beer float to support Juvenile Diabetes (Hope Floats it was called at Fresh Market).

I saw this hilariously funny video on Mercy Me's website (thank you Boomama!), and I can't help but think "Do they know they are famous?" Seriously, I didn't think famous folks acted as silly as they do on that video and you know what? I LOVE it! It helps me remember that although they are famous, they are still just peeps, just like I'm a peep. We're all God's peeps! I can't figure out how to get the video embedded in here - the codes just didn't want to work for me but I do have a link to their blog in my blog list thingy over to the right.

So that's been my day in a small nutshell. I'm glad I don't have a lot of days like today *shew*.

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jer. 29:11

Weekend in and around Savannah, GA

My husband is in the Army, and he's stationed in Louisville, KY. When we met and married, he was a recruiter with the AL National Guard, and he wasn't supposed to be leaving. However, as is life, this ideal work scenario didn't work out. Hubby deployed to Kuwait and then became part of the active Army. Since January 2, he's been stationed in Texas and Kentucky. Since he's been stationed in KY, he's gone to Wisconsin, Mississippi, and Georgia! He's done more traveling than staying in KY, which is one of the reasons we aren't living together. Anyway, he's currently at Ft. Stewart, which is outside of Savannah, GA for the next 3 months.

Because of work schedule, he isn't going to be able to come home very often, plus he doesn't his car which will make it hard for him to get home…I don't have a lot going on right now *cough* and I thought it would be a good time to take a road trip! Friday, after the girls got off to school and I dropped Maggie off at the vet for the weekend, I headed on to Savannah. From Birmingham to Macon, I had all sorts of things to look out and signs to read. However, from Macon to the Base, there was NOTHING to keep me amused. It seemed to take longer for that part of the trip than the 5 hours it had taken to get to Macon! I did have a book on tape (Teacher Man by Frank McCourt – very good!), which helped pass the time.

I had good timing because hubby got done with work about the time I was passing through the Base! I picked him up and we headed to his temporary home quarters. Oh me oh my…his quarter is a tiny hotel room with 2 beds and mold on the ceiling! One of the chairs had so many stains on it, neither of us would sit in it. He's going to be in there until November and there is a chance he'll have a roommate! Holy smokes!! I certainly hope that doesn't happen. I mean, I love the man with all that I have and I wouldn't want to share that space with him for 3 months!!!

We went to Savannah last night and got a nice hotel room in South Savannah. Oh the bed and pillows were heavenly and everything was so clean! There was even a coffee pot J. We went to downtown Savannah and took a horse carriage tour around town. I've always wanted to do that – it looks so romantic. (You aren't really expecting the smells of the horse and those aren't romantic.) We took a private tour at a public tour price *score*! We saw where Forrest Gump sat waiting to take the bus to Jenny's house; the house from the book Midnight in the Garden of Good & Evil; places Julia Roberts filmed "Something to Talk About". After the tour, we walked down to the waterfront and walked (and walked and walked and walked) around looking at all the shops and did some people watching. There's a City Market, so we walked down there too. Come to find out that on Saturday night it's more of a City Bar Scene. Oh we found Paula Deen's restaurant, but it was closed already.

I don't get out and do much physical activity (gotta work on that), so I wasn't quite ready for all of that walking. Luckily, I wore my "comfortable" flip flops...*cough* My dogs were barking loudly by the time we made it back to the hotel and the memory of the super hard bed from the night before was alive in my memory and my back. I was very happy that hubby remembered to pack the generic Advil®!

We enjoyed a little lunch and Starbuck's before I had to hit the road back to Birmingham. L I tried to get him to come with me, but you know his employer is a little funny about folks not showing up for work. They threaten soldiers with things like court, demotion and prison time if you don't show up! Can you imagine?

I had a nice time spending time with hubby. We really needed some alone time, without any interruptions or kids needing chauffeuring. It felt more like "old times" where things were comfortable and easy between us. Praise God for answered prayers. We have to keep on communicating, but this weekend was nice start. I don't know when we'll be able to do this again because the troops they are going to be training will be in GA soon, and he won't get much off time. Also, there's this whole need for me to be employed and not having free time. We're hoping he won't be working without time off, but we just don't know yet.

I didn't get back in time to get my Maggie from the vet, and my other dog (who is older and doesn't tear up things so he can be left unattended) was looking forward to her coming back. He was so excited to see me drive up and walk up the stairs, but he seemed quite disappointed that Maggie wasn't with me.

I'm looking really forward to Friday, when I'm in San Antonio and I get to meet fellow Siestas! Yahoooooooo-JAH!!! I have lofty plans for the week (like working out and cleaning) OH and fall bible study starts on Wednesday! (I'll have to see who has signed up and get the workbook so I'll know what I'm supposed to do.)

Ramblings

Monday night was the first small group leader meeting of the "new" class year. It's about the only time we have to come together and try to get to know each other, even in a small way. Oh, we see each other often, but it's passing in the hall on our way to our rooms.

We start the meeting with prayer and then song (soooo glad the Lord says "make a joyful noise"). I got excited because I saw that "Revelation Song" was cued up. It's my new favorite song after I heard it at the Beth Moore simulcast a couple of weeks ago. It was sang at church last Sunday and then *boom* there it was again. However, that wasn't the song we were singing. But, I was still excited to see it. (We sang Hosanna, in case you were wondering.)

We went through stuff and then Pastor Paul took over the meeting. In October, we'll be starting a new study on prayer by Jim Cymbala, and he (Pastor Paul, not Jim Cymbala) was talking to us about prayer. He lead us in a prayer time that was very unique to me. First, we separated into two groups: men/women. We quieted ourselves and asked God to speak to us and lay on our hearts what the person to our right needed prayer about. While we were still quieted, we were to pray for the needs God laid on our hearts for our neighbor. When the prayer time was over, we were then to share with the person what God laid on our hearts.

I shared with my right hand friend that God wanted her to know to let go of her son, who is going to college next week, and to let her know that He will finish the work He has started in her son. The lady to my left shared that she prayed for me to keep what I'm doing with my family, amidst all the struggles; I was doing what He wanted me to do! Now, my right hand friend is also my mentor and my friend, so it would be easy to rationalize how I knew what to pray for her. But, the lady to my left and I know each other, but I can't rationalize her knowing about my struggles other than it being a God thing! Most of the women were weeping a wee bit and so were some of the men! I thought this was the coolest things, ever. Maybe if I stilled myself more before God, I would hear Him speak.

Does anyone else just crack up at the new Swiffer commercials where the mop, broom or duster is trying to woo back the female who stopped using them? If I'm finding amusement from commercials, am I spending way too much time watching TV? (Oh, I can answer that. YES!) Oh, I'm cracking up just thinking about the broom peeking out from behind a tree and "Baby Come Back" playing. tee hee hee hee

Looking for a job is going really really slow. I can't even keep up with the number of applications I have put in and nothing. I don't think craigslist is the best place for me to look...unless, of course, I want to review and input ads. I would gladly do that; if it didn't cost money to start!

I can't believe the Siesta Fiesta is NEXT WEEK!!!!!!! I'm really excited to meet my fellow siestas and of course mama siesta!!!!!!!! I'm looking forward to a lot of laughter and giggles. I so need giggles and laughter.

I've been enjoying tooling around the various blogs that I have recently found. How have I not seen these incredible blogs before? So many talented and FUNNY and godly women out there. Yahoo-Jah!

Well, another episode of Law & Order is on (the original), so I guess I'll go watch it. Heaven knows I haven't watched enough TV today *cough*.

Thanks for reading the ramblings ;).



For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jer. 29:11

Funk

Who's in a funk?? Oh oh oh, I know the answer to this one! It's ME! Should I be in a funk? No, not really because I am a beloved child of God and He thinks I'm wonderful! This is enough, right? It is enough, but I'm still in a funk.

The last couple of weeks have been strange, to say the least. As with anyone's life, they have been filled with a lot of ups and downs. Sadly, the last two weeks have been more down than up.

I lost my job 2 weeks ago. I couldn't talk to my husband because he was out in the field and didn't have cell phone coverage. When I finally got to talk to him, we got in a little tiff because he just didn't believe I was telling him the whole truth about what happened at work. He kept saying, "there had to be something else." "Yeah," I said, "you would think, but that's all there is." *sigh* So, instead of taking into consideration how I feel about losing my job, he made me feel bad about it all. He was trying to make me get riled up so I would retaliate, but that's just not the way I do things. Of course I'm upset about what happened but there's nothing to be gained by fighting it or our fighting about it! I do know that I've prayed about two different jobs because I wasn't happy, and it wasn't long after that that I lost both jobs. (By lost, I, of course, mean I was let go.)

Then, during the last couple of weeks, James & I realize just how poor our communication has gotten. We both know now important it is to talk to each other - really talk to each other - but it's just not happening. I've tried to take the tears and sow Seeds with them. We do seem to have had a breakthrough, even if it's just the realization that there's a problem we need to address. He was able to come home last weekend and we had a good time with each other. There wasn't the awkwardness that there has been (but more tears were shed). I lift our marriage up to the Almighty Father and know that He will work miracles with us both.

Looking on the job front has been really slow. I've applied for so many jobs, and I haven't heard back on any of them (well, except the one person who contacted me about my seemingly spotty work history). I need to work and I'm not too proud to work wherever I need to work! I keep praying about that as well.

The girls started school this week, which was good and bad. Bad because that means we've had to shop for back to school clothes and supplies. Good news is that their dad was able to send a little bit of money (he's not working either) to help out and both girls have been great about being frugal and understanding. It's only been two days but they both seem happy about their schedules and teachers. Their both gone tonight, leaving me here all alone and all bored!

Other cool things that have happened in the past couple of weeks - Beth Moore simulcast! WOW is about all I can say. I was blown away at the concept of 70,000 women (and some men) singing and praying the same songs and prayers at the same time and these women were all over the country and spread out in 4 countries! We had 10 ladies from our church at the simulcast. I wish more could have come from our church, but was thrilled with the ladies who did come (especially my Mom!). Mom fell in love with Beth's sense of humor. I knew she would!

The Siesta Fiesta is only 2 weeks away! This time in 2 weeks I'll be at the Alamodome with my fellow Siestas (and a Miesta or two). I'm so grateful I had already paid for my hotel and airline tickets, or I wouldn't have been able to go. My husband was concerned that I wouldn't have time to do much sight seeing, and while that would be great, I'm there for Siesta Fiesta!!! That will be quite enough seeing for me!!!

Here's a picture of something too cute for words! Maggie tore her bed up, but I salvaged the pillow from it. She'd rather be asleep on my bed, but that's a no-no! Awwwww isn't she adorable??

I should get up from the couch and clean. I need to get my attitude right though - all for His glory!! (I'm not there but I'm closer now that I've written all of this down.)

I pulled out my notecards that I have been dragging around with me and haven't been praying over. Allow me to share this one that I need to mediate on:

God, I am so thankful there is now no condemnation for those who are Christ Jesus (Romans 8:1). If you, Lord, don't condemn me, I have no right nor place to condemn myself. Help me not to get caught up in a defeating cycle of self-condemnation.

Lord, what you command me to do is not too difficult for me or beyond my reach (Deut. 30:11).

Thank you, Lord, for the grace you have given me. I love you so.