"Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him and he will do this:
He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun." -- Psalm 37:5-6
Does my righteousness shine like the dawn?
What is my cause? Because God is ready to make it shine like the noonday sun!
Seems to me I have read Psalm 37 a zillion times, after all it contains every single person's most bittersweet verse:
"4 Delight yourself in the LORD
and he will give you the desires of your heart."
Lord knows I waited a long time to see one particular desire of my heart fulfilled. I would say that my righteousness and my causes rank in there somewhere. I just can't say I have given it too much thought lately.
There are still desires both fleshly and spiritual that I still long for. These other verses really struck me with fresh revelation this week though. They have been reverberating around in my head as I wrestle items that would seek to wreck havoc with my righteousness and trust.
Tonight I was tempted to cry myself silly as I wrestled something to ground, but what will that do to my already congested head!
Instead I'll just adore rather than wrestle. Shine Jesus Shine forget any woes is mes you heard earlier from me.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Tuesday, March 03, 2009
Stringing Things Together
About 3 years ago I met with a woman for some counseling. She was instrumental in helping me slay some demons. One of the verses she had me focus on was Psalm 84: 7
We both knew I needed strength to do what I had to do. I would try to visualize what it would look like to go from strength to strength so that I could live it out.
Even after the "demon" was successful slayed there were still residual effects that had to be dealt with over time. Now, I am looking back and reflecting on what God has done in these past 3 years. I am seeing how "strength to strength" have been people. God has strung together a series of people who have offered tangible strength, wisdom & expertise.
I am abounding with wonder and thankfulness over the way God strings things together as I go from strength to strength and He works His wonders and answers my prayers.
They go from strength to strength,
till each appears before God in Zion.
We both knew I needed strength to do what I had to do. I would try to visualize what it would look like to go from strength to strength so that I could live it out.
Even after the "demon" was successful slayed there were still residual effects that had to be dealt with over time. Now, I am looking back and reflecting on what God has done in these past 3 years. I am seeing how "strength to strength" have been people. God has strung together a series of people who have offered tangible strength, wisdom & expertise.
I am abounding with wonder and thankfulness over the way God strings things together as I go from strength to strength and He works His wonders and answers my prayers.
Monday, March 02, 2009
Birds, Birds, Birds
Driving home from work last week, I noticed what looked like a lot of birds. I was amazed at the sheer number. That is until I got a good look at the sheer number. There were so many birds it was like a black ribbon in the sky stretching on for MILES. When I say miles I mean miles! I drove for a good 10 minutes and the birds just kept coming. They were coming as if they had been released from a cage -maybe a cage called winter? Then, I started driving in a different direction and I couldn't see them anymore.
I happen to tell the pastor about my amazement over the birds and he said he has seen them before. Sometimes they'll sit in the trees around his property. He agreed there are a lot of them! He thought it was ironic or rather providential that I brought this story up just before he was about to work on his sermon. He opened his PowerPoint slide to this verse Matthew 6:26:
I saw the birds again later that week in a completely different area. So I guess they get around. But I was drawn back to the verse the pastor brought up. In the light of some of the things I worry about why do I bother? All of those birds are in his care surely I am too...
The birds also reminded me what this blog is really all about - drawing attention to the small things that really aren't that small. Those amazing things that we get glimpses of that remind to notice what is around us because hope, glory and wonder do abound in this world.
I happen to tell the pastor about my amazement over the birds and he said he has seen them before. Sometimes they'll sit in the trees around his property. He agreed there are a lot of them! He thought it was ironic or rather providential that I brought this story up just before he was about to work on his sermon. He opened his PowerPoint slide to this verse Matthew 6:26:
Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?So many birds and yet God knows them all.
I saw the birds again later that week in a completely different area. So I guess they get around. But I was drawn back to the verse the pastor brought up. In the light of some of the things I worry about why do I bother? All of those birds are in his care surely I am too...
The birds also reminded me what this blog is really all about - drawing attention to the small things that really aren't that small. Those amazing things that we get glimpses of that remind to notice what is around us because hope, glory and wonder do abound in this world.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Leftover Ramblings
We love leftovers for lunch because frequently they look like this...
That's a nice looking lunch of leftover isn't?
Hubby emailed me, "Looked so good I photographed it."
I appreciate the appreciation because I do put a lot of thought into what I will make during the week so that we can be sure to have leftovers... leftovers that hubby can enjoy and my co-workers drool over. ;-)
I made this 6-7 inch long bottom round roast last for 11 meals! We had it with pierogies and then I made stroganoff with pasta. Good stuff... I am even learning to write down the recipes that come out good.
Now if only I had a dishwasher to keep up with all my leftovers.
That's a nice looking lunch of leftover isn't?
Hubby emailed me, "Looked so good I photographed it."
I appreciate the appreciation because I do put a lot of thought into what I will make during the week so that we can be sure to have leftovers... leftovers that hubby can enjoy and my co-workers drool over. ;-)
I made this 6-7 inch long bottom round roast last for 11 meals! We had it with pierogies and then I made stroganoff with pasta. Good stuff... I am even learning to write down the recipes that come out good.
Now if only I had a dishwasher to keep up with all my leftovers.
Thursday, February 05, 2009
Together Again
In July 2006, my neighbor Charlie passed away. He was a fixture in my life. He let me use his little greenhouse to start my seeds back when my green-thumb was young and energetic. My deep love of hollyhocks started in that greenhouse -long since torn down. In the last few years of his life, you would frequently find him sitting in an old lawn chair under an oak tree. He was usually napping. It grieved me deeply when the chair was removed. I still picture it there when I drive by and remember him and then think about his wife Mary - who was still hanging in there.
Mary always knew what was going on in the neighborhood. Their porch was the place to be in the evening. I'd just go and sit for awhile or until the mosquitoes got too bad...She was always asking me, "So how's your love life?" And she really wanted to know. She really wanted the answer to be a good one. I was so happy to finally introduce her to my love while she could still appreciate the news. She's been pretty frail and went senile after Charlie passed. It wasn't something I could bare to see. I wished she could be at my wedding and to see her dance as she once promised, but she was too frail to come.
Monday, Mary passed away too. Its sad because know era is ending but it is so good to know that Charlie and Mary are back together again. Its been hard to see them apart for so long.
Mary always knew what was going on in the neighborhood. Their porch was the place to be in the evening. I'd just go and sit for awhile or until the mosquitoes got too bad...She was always asking me, "So how's your love life?" And she really wanted to know. She really wanted the answer to be a good one. I was so happy to finally introduce her to my love while she could still appreciate the news. She's been pretty frail and went senile after Charlie passed. It wasn't something I could bare to see. I wished she could be at my wedding and to see her dance as she once promised, but she was too frail to come.
Monday, Mary passed away too. Its sad because know era is ending but it is so good to know that Charlie and Mary are back together again. Its been hard to see them apart for so long.
Tuesday, January 06, 2009
Abounding Thanks
Sometimes I get to bogged down by logistics and how things will work out. And sometimes I get flustered when I need to communicate with people about the logistics I am trying to work out in my life. And sometimes I get upset when the logistics I have been trying to work out aren't working out.
And then I cry a little. And sometimes I cry a lot.
Then, somehow the logistics work themselves out. So much so that they are even better than anything I could have planned. And I know its God and I wonder why I got bogged, flustered and upset.
But, I get over it choosing rather to continually bask in the better outcome and abound in thanksgiving for working out logistics in my favor and for my own good.
And then I cry a little. And sometimes I cry a lot.
Then, somehow the logistics work themselves out. So much so that they are even better than anything I could have planned. And I know its God and I wonder why I got bogged, flustered and upset.
But, I get over it choosing rather to continually bask in the better outcome and abound in thanksgiving for working out logistics in my favor and for my own good.
Everyday Food
For 4 years, I ate lunch with one fabulous cook. At least I think he was good, I only sampled a couple things over the years. He explained in detail how he made each dish and everything always looked and smelled fantastic. I was never much for recipes. I usually made things up as I went along. But thanks to my lunch buddy I acquired a respect for the recipe. He introduced me to his 2 favorite sources of recipes... Williams and Sonoma and Everyday Food. I have become a fan of both myself.
Williams and Sonoma has produced such sweet creations as pecan pie made with maple syrup and the tasty concoction percolating in the crock-pot as I type.
Everyday Food is like a box of goodies for me. When it comes in the mail, I curl up on the sofa and slowly leaf through the little magazine looking at each pictured dish trying to decide, "is that something hubby and I would like to eat?" Then, I will turn the corner of recipes I want to try. I actually tried a lot of recipes and repeated the recipes too.
The books were piling up and so I came up with a quick reference plan for looking for a favorite recipe or when I need to be inspired. I stuck a post-a-note on the back of the magazine and listed the recipes that interested me + the page number. Its been working for me.
Everyday Food is keeping us well fed.
Williams and Sonoma has produced such sweet creations as pecan pie made with maple syrup and the tasty concoction percolating in the crock-pot as I type.
Everyday Food is like a box of goodies for me. When it comes in the mail, I curl up on the sofa and slowly leaf through the little magazine looking at each pictured dish trying to decide, "is that something hubby and I would like to eat?" Then, I will turn the corner of recipes I want to try. I actually tried a lot of recipes and repeated the recipes too.
The books were piling up and so I came up with a quick reference plan for looking for a favorite recipe or when I need to be inspired. I stuck a post-a-note on the back of the magazine and listed the recipes that interested me + the page number. Its been working for me.
Everyday Food is keeping us well fed.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Decorating
I have tried not to cover the house in red and green and holly. Isn't amazing how we can squeeze snowmen and candles into places we would normally not ever put stuff. All in the name of holiday decorating...
To feats of decorating success I have had this Christmas are my swag and my Tiffany bowl.
One Christmas I fell in love with this idea... I was at friends house for Christmas Eve and she had lights and glass Christmas balls hanging from an evergreen swag and they all hung over the living room windows. I have tried to duplicate her masterpiece - minus the lights because there is nowhere to plug them in. Notice the little snowman hanging on for dear life!
Last Saturday, I went to a craft show looking for something Christmasy for our coffee table. I saw a few possibilities but nothing that made me want to spend my future house money on. So I came home empty handed. But when I started decorating the next day I came up with this creation using the Tiffany bowl we received as a wedding gift + Christmas balls + a few sprigs of the tree that were cut off. And what do we have a ? a colorful bowl of found items that didn't cost me extra. Gotta love that!
To feats of decorating success I have had this Christmas are my swag and my Tiffany bowl.
One Christmas I fell in love with this idea... I was at friends house for Christmas Eve and she had lights and glass Christmas balls hanging from an evergreen swag and they all hung over the living room windows. I have tried to duplicate her masterpiece - minus the lights because there is nowhere to plug them in. Notice the little snowman hanging on for dear life!
Last Saturday, I went to a craft show looking for something Christmasy for our coffee table. I saw a few possibilities but nothing that made me want to spend my future house money on. So I came home empty handed. But when I started decorating the next day I came up with this creation using the Tiffany bowl we received as a wedding gift + Christmas balls + a few sprigs of the tree that were cut off. And what do we have a ? a colorful bowl of found items that didn't cost me extra. Gotta love that!
To Tinsel or Not to Tinsel
Sunday we bought our first Christmas Tree together. I was more excited than Hubby... I carefully laid out all the ornaments that I would put on the tree. This is the first Christmas tree I have ever decorated all on my own and I quite liked the freedom to dress it up just as I wanted.The results are mostly red, white and silver. I am still asking the questions though do I tinsel or not?
I hung one of my favorite ornaments. I have had since I was a baby. For the last 3 years, I have been unsure where to hang it. I planned to hang it on my roommate Christmas trees but when I thought about the fact that on Christmas Day I wouldn't see my little angel on a swing I decided to bring it back home to my parents. But now I have my own home and my own tree and I will actually be able to enjoy my little angel on Christmas Day even if it isn't on my parents tree. So here she is...
Sometime I wonder why do we go through all these trappings -Christmas trees, cookies and presents- they really don't have anything to do with Jesus' birthday. And I highly doubt that Jesus was even born on December 25th. Nevertheless there is some thing nice about the warm glow of the lights and the shiny red balls that make a drab day pretty special. Not to mention many of the ornaments hold special memories or remind me of special people.
... The question still does remain to tinsel or not to tinsel...
Monday, November 03, 2008
Quintessential Italy
This has always been one of my favorite pictures taken in Italy. I took this on my way to Mount Vesuvius.I recently realized our new printer is also a scanner so presto scano. I can finally post it.
The woman was hanging wash and yelling down to someone walking in the street. Which to me is the quintessential Italian way! I don't think she was yelling at my for taking her picture though. I tried to be discreet.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Late Bloomer
I have always been a later bloomer. Somehow even at my age, I still keep finding areas of my life where I still haven't opened up or changed.Recently, I was visiting a favorite creek and it was a very different experience than the last time I was there when I walked in the water in my socks. I found rest in this spot but was little a disappointed that I couldn't recreate the exhilarating romping good time I had years ago. It was a case of too tired, not enough time or extra socks.
I did catch this nice shot and it kind of reminded me of me. Seems to me, it is a late bloomer or to be more exact a late changer. Things change and some things stay the same or take longer to change that seems to be a fact of life. And everyone who knows me knows it took a long time to "change my name." I still seem to be a little green in some areas when it comes to be a wife. Sometime I look at my finger and see that wedding band and wonder "How did this happen?"
I think it will sink in eventually just as I am sure those green leaves will be changing colors.
The View
It started off as a drink of water and then grew into a flower. I was so intrigued by the view I ran for my camera and tried to recreate what I saw. I think I captured it well. I suppose it was a moment of seeing things from a different perspective and finding emerging beauty. Not only did I notice the flower but the lovely way the sun was reflecting in the water. In the end, I was glad I noticed and took the time to appreciate this wonderful glimpse.
Wednesday, October 01, 2008
Of New Jobs, Hard Things and Pumpkin Sorbet
New Job
Tomorrow it will be 1 month since I started my new job. It is going really well. There are definite difference but a lot of similarities too. I was well received and I like to think I jumped right in to the job. I have learned more about Excel in the last few weeks than I ever thought possible. I had no idea it could do some of the things it does and sometimes its capabilities scare me. What alarms me even more is how quick people are to say "Oh we could make an Excel spreadsheet and blah blah blah...." I am told it comes from being around so many DuPont chemical engineer types.
There is no denying that I am happy about the shorter work day and the shorter commute, but I do miss my old friends.
All in all I am happy that God has put me in this new place, I am being challenged and inspired.
Hard Things
Things like Excel can be daunting. There are plenty of other hard things I have had a hard time tackling and sometimes just been too afraid to tackle. Lately, I have found my self doing something I never thought could or would happen. And I am faced with the decision, loose hold of the wonder and amazement that I have actually mastered or overcome some hard thing or take it all for granted soon forgetting that once upon a time I couldn't do... Excel, pump my own gas and the list goes on of hard things... I am trying to hold on to that wonder - that sense of gratitude as I tackle new hard things.
Pumpkin Sorbet
Yes, its that time of year again. Time to experiment with sorbet recipes so I can try and recreate the frosty pumpkin pie without a crust I was blessed enough to partake of last fall. I have been making all kinds of sorbets this summer such as peach, plum, strawberry, and pear with Riesling. There is still no Pumpkin recipe out that satisfies me so I had to create a recipe based on a super easy peach recipe I found that doesn't require simple syrup -which is always the thing that holds me up.
Result: I am getting closer. Overall I am pleased with it but I will keep trying to perfect it.
Tomorrow it will be 1 month since I started my new job. It is going really well. There are definite difference but a lot of similarities too. I was well received and I like to think I jumped right in to the job. I have learned more about Excel in the last few weeks than I ever thought possible. I had no idea it could do some of the things it does and sometimes its capabilities scare me. What alarms me even more is how quick people are to say "Oh we could make an Excel spreadsheet and blah blah blah...." I am told it comes from being around so many DuPont chemical engineer types.
There is no denying that I am happy about the shorter work day and the shorter commute, but I do miss my old friends.
All in all I am happy that God has put me in this new place, I am being challenged and inspired.
Hard Things
Things like Excel can be daunting. There are plenty of other hard things I have had a hard time tackling and sometimes just been too afraid to tackle. Lately, I have found my self doing something I never thought could or would happen. And I am faced with the decision, loose hold of the wonder and amazement that I have actually mastered or overcome some hard thing or take it all for granted soon forgetting that once upon a time I couldn't do... Excel, pump my own gas and the list goes on of hard things... I am trying to hold on to that wonder - that sense of gratitude as I tackle new hard things.
Pumpkin Sorbet
Yes, its that time of year again. Time to experiment with sorbet recipes so I can try and recreate the frosty pumpkin pie without a crust I was blessed enough to partake of last fall. I have been making all kinds of sorbets this summer such as peach, plum, strawberry, and pear with Riesling. There is still no Pumpkin recipe out that satisfies me so I had to create a recipe based on a super easy peach recipe I found that doesn't require simple syrup -which is always the thing that holds me up.
Result: I am getting closer. Overall I am pleased with it but I will keep trying to perfect it.
Dancing Bride
So who knows where I have been for the last 2 months but to make up for being AWOL... have a look at this video - It might just turn your head!
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Milestone Mileage
I have racked up a lot of miles in the last 3 months. So I was able to reach this Mileage Milestone a lot quicker than if I was commuting a reasonable distance to work.
It was with great excitement that I anticipated the turning of my mileage to 100,000. Really I am serious, I was like one on the edge of her seat! I had planned on you using me cell phone camera to document the event -because I forgot my camera.
Fortunately, Jeremy summer intern extraordinaire needed a ride to the mechanic. I asked him to bring his camera because by my calculations I knew we would be on route 476 when the "turn" took place. I was so thankful for his keen photography skill that caught this monumental occasion in a digital snapshot so that I can fondly look back to the day my dear Honda "Billy" turned 100,000 miles. Billy now has reached the point in its life where a $600+ timing belt is now right around the corner hence its name Billy short for "Responsibility" fulfills its name.
I am glad that not only did I have some to take the pictures but that I had someone there to celebrate with. Thanks Jeremy!
It was with great excitement that I anticipated the turning of my mileage to 100,000. Really I am serious, I was like one on the edge of her seat! I had planned on you using me cell phone camera to document the event -because I forgot my camera.
Fortunately, Jeremy summer intern extraordinaire needed a ride to the mechanic. I asked him to bring his camera because by my calculations I knew we would be on route 476 when the "turn" took place. I was so thankful for his keen photography skill that caught this monumental occasion in a digital snapshot so that I can fondly look back to the day my dear Honda "Billy" turned 100,000 miles. Billy now has reached the point in its life where a $600+ timing belt is now right around the corner hence its name Billy short for "Responsibility" fulfills its name.
I am glad that not only did I have some to take the pictures but that I had someone there to celebrate with. Thanks Jeremy!
Wednesday, August 06, 2008
Hope on Youtube
It's amazing what you can do when you go get "help". So I have finally learned to post a youtube video! This is Marina Micalizzi and Kira Dutzmann performing at Project Dance NYC 2008 to Sara Groves' "It Might Be Hope."
I have been listening to Sara Groves for the last 2 weeks. This is the only video I found with the song I like. These 2 girls did a lovely job. (Though I have no idea who they are!) I find it somewhat ironic that they performed this 5 days before my wedding. Something I have been hoping for for a long time.
I am finding the need for hope and desire for it to be just outside my window or on the other end of the phone has not diminished now that I have a dear husband.
Our hopes change but the need for it doesn't.
P.S. Maybe now I can figure out how to post a video from the camera. You might get to see the Dancing Bride
Friday, August 01, 2008
Rumble Seats
Once upon a time we had a couple posters of antique cars hanging up in our cellar. One of them had a rumble seat. I always wanted to ride in a rumble seat. This spring I finally got the chance...
Isn't nice when these little childhood wishes come true?
Friday with Quilters
After I finally found the quilt shop I was looking for, I started to mill around looking for the piece of fabric I have pictured in my mind -a perfect shade of Robin's Egg Blue with speckles of brown.
This might work but it is still not exactly what I am looking for. So I decided to only get a "Fat Quarter."
It was near to closing time and the shop owner and one of the workers started to pull out fabrics for a new sample quilt.
Now one of my most favorite things to do is pick out fabrics for a quilt. There is something so invigorating and artistical about pulling fabrics off shelves and out of boxes and saying: "Ohhhh yes they go together perfectly!" (And this is what I was hoping to do when I found the perfect Robin's Egg Blue)
And that's exactly what these 2 women were doing! So I subtly wiggled my way into the process and before long the 3 of use were pouring over bolts of fabric and experimenting with different ideas for the needed 6 fabrics for the quilt.
They listened to my opinion and ultimately choose 2 of the fabrics I pulled out. So I am anxious to stop by in the next week or so to see the completed project.
In the meantime, I might pull out my box fabrics and see what I have that matches my lovely blue and brown.
Friday, July 04, 2008
Since I got married...
Since I got married...
I have only made pancakes once, but I have used my new waffle maker multiple times.
I have doubled the amount of laundry I do, but I am fortunate Walter doesn't require ironed clothes for work.
I have racked up 2040 miles in 34 days driving 68 hours to and from work.
And after living in Pennsylvania for 4 years of college and almost 4 years in Wayne and Havertown, I have finally started to pump my own gas! Yes, I decided one day when I was on "E" and no where near a full service station that since I was a married woman I ought to learn to pump my own gas. And so I have.... since I got married.
I have only made pancakes once, but I have used my new waffle maker multiple times.
I have doubled the amount of laundry I do, but I am fortunate Walter doesn't require ironed clothes for work.
I have racked up 2040 miles in 34 days driving 68 hours to and from work.
And after living in Pennsylvania for 4 years of college and almost 4 years in Wayne and Havertown, I have finally started to pump my own gas! Yes, I decided one day when I was on "E" and no where near a full service station that since I was a married woman I ought to learn to pump my own gas. And so I have.... since I got married.
Tuesday, July 01, 2008
Distilling Trust
I have spent much of the afternoon crafting cover letters and submitting resumes.
I could be wearing a T-Shirt that says:
“I rather be Blogging!”
I don't know where any of my applications will lead. I can tell you, I hope one will lead to a good paying job that only takes 20 minutes or less to get to rather than 60!
I am distilling what trust looks like after you get married. And I am finding that trust looks differently these days. I trust God through Walter and I trust Walter through God.
I could be wearing a T-Shirt that says:
“I rather be Blogging!”
I don't know where any of my applications will lead. I can tell you, I hope one will lead to a good paying job that only takes 20 minutes or less to get to rather than 60!
I am distilling what trust looks like after you get married. And I am finding that trust looks differently these days. I trust God through Walter and I trust Walter through God.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
The Body of Christ ...in China
We have had Chinese University Professors visiting with us at the church. They have toured around all the historical sites while staying with Christian families and listening to lectures on Religious freedom in America and Christianity. I worked through the details of the schedule, making sure they had a place to sleep. Sure there were some snafus like I forgot to order them boxed lunches to take with them for their departure to the next city. So I ran to Wawa and ordered turkey hoagies... I got to sit in on one of the lectures with the pastor - which was really just stories of his recent experiences in China. I emailed him after everyone had left:
“I gotta tell you I was so blessed listening to what you had to say to the Chinese. It’s easy to lose sight of the big picture when you focus so much on the details: Plane departures, confirmation #s, hours in a day etc. The thought occurred to me that someday I will get to heaven and I will see the fruit of all those collective labors. I helped make your schedule so you could get to the place God planned you to be so you could plant a seed. So someday I will see the results of all the seeds planted from your seeds. So I may not be planting seeds myself but I have been getting the farmer to the field. It was good to see that with fresh eyes. The body of Christ at work….”
His response to me:
“This is what Jesus was talking about when He said that not even a cup of water given in His name will lose its reward! All of our collective efforts make His ministry here on earth possible. Every task matters. As Francis Schaeffer used to say, “There are no little people.”
So maybe it wasn't so much the pride of working for a prestigious man but the honor of working for a humble servant of God and knowing that's not my part in the body of Christ anymore that has me feeling weepy (coupled with moving away from my friends). What I do have to look forward to is all the eternal glories of all the people rescued into family of God because I helped one man get to China, France, Africa, Spain, Phoenix, Florida. And his work multiplies as each person he plants a seed with goes forward with their own new seeds.
And so I will miss being apart of something so big and glorious.
“I gotta tell you I was so blessed listening to what you had to say to the Chinese. It’s easy to lose sight of the big picture when you focus so much on the details: Plane departures, confirmation #s, hours in a day etc. The thought occurred to me that someday I will get to heaven and I will see the fruit of all those collective labors. I helped make your schedule so you could get to the place God planned you to be so you could plant a seed. So someday I will see the results of all the seeds planted from your seeds. So I may not be planting seeds myself but I have been getting the farmer to the field. It was good to see that with fresh eyes. The body of Christ at work….”
His response to me:
“This is what Jesus was talking about when He said that not even a cup of water given in His name will lose its reward! All of our collective efforts make His ministry here on earth possible. Every task matters. As Francis Schaeffer used to say, “There are no little people.”
So maybe it wasn't so much the pride of working for a prestigious man but the honor of working for a humble servant of God and knowing that's not my part in the body of Christ anymore that has me feeling weepy (coupled with moving away from my friends). What I do have to look forward to is all the eternal glories of all the people rescued into family of God because I helped one man get to China, France, Africa, Spain, Phoenix, Florida. And his work multiplies as each person he plants a seed with goes forward with their own new seeds.
And so I will miss being apart of something so big and glorious.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Confession, Mourning and Redemption
Last week I handed over the reigns. I will no longer be assistant to the senior pastor. I found this to be a challenging task. I guess I never realized how much I liked the power of working for a "prestigious" man. (Even though he is extremely humble.) I lost my power. I realized that I had had secret pride because of my position of power. Rarely, did I brag on my boss -but I liked the idea that I had boss I could brag on.
I repented of this pride.
Then, I started to mourn the prospect of leaving my job completely. Being uprooted from the place that has been my home, haven and occasional headache for the last 4 years. Not seeing the people who have poured into my life at work or being near to my friends and former roommates has been suffocating me.
I have been weepy for days.
I have almost always worked in a meaningful job. Either working with children in some capacity on in my present job at the church. I may end up working in a "secular" job and not able to contribute to the cause for Christ as I have been. But God has reminded me of the fact that where ever I end up working in the next few weeks or months I have a special reward waiting for me someday. And maybe my contributions will just be different in a new place.
I'll post the specific of the "redemption" separately.
I repented of this pride.
Then, I started to mourn the prospect of leaving my job completely. Being uprooted from the place that has been my home, haven and occasional headache for the last 4 years. Not seeing the people who have poured into my life at work or being near to my friends and former roommates has been suffocating me.
I have been weepy for days.
I have almost always worked in a meaningful job. Either working with children in some capacity on in my present job at the church. I may end up working in a "secular" job and not able to contribute to the cause for Christ as I have been. But God has reminded me of the fact that where ever I end up working in the next few weeks or months I have a special reward waiting for me someday. And maybe my contributions will just be different in a new place.
I'll post the specific of the "redemption" separately.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Salmon Cakes
One day my old roommates were busy in the kitchen mixing up a bowlful of pink meat. "What are you making?" "Salmon cakes. Do you want one?" one said. "Sure I'll try one." I replied and proceeded to eat the most delectable seafood dish ever! It was like a little piece of heaven in my mouth! They quickly came the house favorite and the "one" dish I could rely one to make for company.
But salmon in a pouch (that's what we used) is not that cheap. Walter and I wanted to make up a batch for lunches this week. We saw that the canned salmon was on sale half the price for twice the amount of meat in a pouch. SO we bought 4 cans!
I opened one can and it was all watery and then I saw its spine and I about hurled. This explains the tapered shape of the can. This also explains what the can means when its says "Traditional Style." They cut up a fish and stick the whole slice of fish in a can! I was completely grossed out. Walter had to pick out the bones. We now have a ton of them in the frig. but the joy of eating them has been diminished by the intimate knowledge we had of the fish before he got crumbled up and mixed in with eggs and mayo.
I'm happy to post the recipe if someone asks... just whatever you do buy the salmon in a pouch unless you have a thing for fish bones...
It may be a while before I feel an urge to make them again
But salmon in a pouch (that's what we used) is not that cheap. Walter and I wanted to make up a batch for lunches this week. We saw that the canned salmon was on sale half the price for twice the amount of meat in a pouch. SO we bought 4 cans!
I opened one can and it was all watery and then I saw its spine and I about hurled. This explains the tapered shape of the can. This also explains what the can means when its says "Traditional Style." They cut up a fish and stick the whole slice of fish in a can! I was completely grossed out. Walter had to pick out the bones. We now have a ton of them in the frig. but the joy of eating them has been diminished by the intimate knowledge we had of the fish before he got crumbled up and mixed in with eggs and mayo.
I'm happy to post the recipe if someone asks... just whatever you do buy the salmon in a pouch unless you have a thing for fish bones...
It may be a while before I feel an urge to make them again
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Honeymoon Highlights
We went to Gatlinburg, Tennessee and Asheville, North Carolina. We enjoyed ourselves. I of course loved all the streams and creeks in the Smoky Mountain National Park. I think Walter liked the cable TV best!
This is about the only way I can get Walter to have his picture taken. He is so stubborn!
This is the bear we saw. That was the coolest thing that we saw. I real live bear in the woods... you don't get any wilder than that for this suburban girl!
Then there was the Biltmore Estate... which brought grandeur to a whole new level for me. What an incredible construction!
This is about the only way I can get Walter to have his picture taken. He is so stubborn!
This is the bear we saw. That was the coolest thing that we saw. I real live bear in the woods... you don't get any wilder than that for this suburban girl!
Then there was the Biltmore Estate... which brought grandeur to a whole new level for me. What an incredible construction!
Wedding Pictures
Here is Carrie my life long friend and her daughter Riely. Riely did actually manage to make it down the aisle despite being an unpredictably 16 month old!
There I am in the grass looking pensive...
Carrie and I are in the Prayer Garden. The was really perfect - because it was overcast we weren't squinting at the sun!
Daddy's Little Girl Dance - only we danced to Moonlight Serenade because whenever I hear that song I think of all the times I danced on my daddy's toes as a little girl.
My mom took all these pictures. Hopefully when I get the professional ones back I can post some. We are really excited to see what the pink tree photos end up looking like. The photographer laid on the ground and looked up and Walter and I with the pink petals all around. I think it will turn out really cool I just hope our faces end up looking good too!
Peach Cookies
These Delectable Morsels where provided for the shower by my cousin Lorraine. She is famous for making these lovely Italian Cookies and thanks to the wonders of the Internet I found a nice story and recipe that I can paste - here.
The recipe looks pretty similar to how I have heard Lorraine explain them. Someday maybe I will try them.
My Shower
I need to play a little catch up because important events have happened... very blog worthy events and I have just not had the time or energy or Internet connection. So....
On March 1, my mom and friend Carrie hosted my Bridal Shower at a Tea Room. It was an absolutely lovely day. It was everything I could have ever hoped for in a Bridal Shower - there were NO corny games!
We had tea, finger sandwiches and little pastries. There was lovely music playing in the background and all my female family and friends were gathered together. What made it even more special for me is that everyone was asked to where a hat. (Because I collect hats and love to wear them.) So it was fun to see everyone in hats. Some where old some were new some where borrowed. Everyone seem to enjoy themselves - even those who are in general Bridal-Showered-Out!
This me, my matron of honor Carrie and my mom. I am in the hat Walter's mom sent for me.
Mom and here good friend Dianne. I came home exhausted. I couldn't believe how tired I was but I was so happy. I talked about how wonderful my shower was for days!
Some of the other really special things that happened during the shower...
My friend Nancy came all the way down from Hoboken!
My aunt Roz gave me a pin cushion that belonged to Grandmom Mary. She is my cousin's other Grandma but she was like my own too. I loved her dearly. So it is nice to have something of hers to remind of her spunky practical ways.
And cousin Lorraine made peach cookies... more on them next
Tuesday, May 06, 2008
Die Hard Dancing
They might eat me for lunch if they find out this picture is now on my blog. Let's hope they don't see it...right away. Thanks to Monica, Joe, Lauren, Kat, and Don they were my die hard dancing buddies at my April 26th wedding. When everyone else had left and the tables had been cleared the DJ was still playing. So we danced and danced till I finally told them I couldn't dance anymore and let them go home!More to come on the wedding -for those too curious to wait - in a few simple words: elegant, perfect weather, pink trees, pink flowers, lovely people and a wonderful husband for the new Mrs. Higgins.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Wedding Eve
Well, my dress is hanging in the attic. I walked up there yesterday to get something and I said to myself, "That's my wedding dress." And I almost got choked up.
My room here at the house is almost empty. I am sitting on the floor with the computer and my leg is falling asleep. I only have my bed, computer, some clothes and toiletries left. I still have a bit within the house that I need to go through and pull out. All the rest of my stuff is at Walter's mostly all unpacked and in its new place. It kind of weird.
The rehearsal dinner is tonight. Uncle Tom and Aunt Pat should be flying right now. Gene, Amanda and Marco came in last night. All but 4 of my family members will be there tomorrow. They are all so excited for me.
Sometimes I still can't believe it. But then I say to myself, "Don't insult God by doubting His work here." That's been helping!
My room here at the house is almost empty. I am sitting on the floor with the computer and my leg is falling asleep. I only have my bed, computer, some clothes and toiletries left. I still have a bit within the house that I need to go through and pull out. All the rest of my stuff is at Walter's mostly all unpacked and in its new place. It kind of weird.
The rehearsal dinner is tonight. Uncle Tom and Aunt Pat should be flying right now. Gene, Amanda and Marco came in last night. All but 4 of my family members will be there tomorrow. They are all so excited for me.
Sometimes I still can't believe it. But then I say to myself, "Don't insult God by doubting His work here." That's been helping!
Violets for Jeanie
For the last several years, I have brought a little bundle of violets to my 2 dear old neighbors - Jeanie and Mrs. V. I guess I started doing this traditionally because Jeanie mentioned one day that when she was growing up there was a plot of land that was loaded with violets. However, I think the first time I did it, I did it just because I wanted to bring them flowers. So I have made it a little tradition.
This spring, as I have been busy with Walter and wedding preparations I haven't been back to my parents as much. But I would see the violets at my house and think of Jeanie and Mrs. V. Yesterday, I was outside at my dad's and I spied the violets and automatically started picking them -with Jeanie in mind.
This spring, as I have been busy with Walter and wedding preparations I haven't been back to my parents as much. But I would see the violets at my house and think of Jeanie and Mrs. V. Yesterday, I was outside at my dad's and I spied the violets and automatically started picking them -with Jeanie in mind.
I gathered them up and knocked on her door. She said with what looked like a little mist in her eyes that she had been to visit Mrs. V. (who is now quite senile) just that day and was talking with her about how every April Elizabeth brings us violets. She had said that she guessed they wouldn't get them this year. Jeanie isn't sure if Mrs. V. remembered me and Jeanie tried to explain to her that I was getting married this weekend. I had always hoped that Mrs. V would be there to dance at my wedding. Alas, she is not strong enough to attend. But somehow I know she will be there in spirit.
Sometimes we do things and they seem so small maybe even bordering on corny. Then, you find out just how much small things are appreciated by the people you do them for and it makes you glad that you took the time to do it year after year.
Friday, April 18, 2008
Hope in India
I have a fascination with India and I at times grieve over the injustices of women there. I got involved with Shared Hope International which works to rescue women caught in sex trafficking. I wish I could do more than send the occasional check...
Last month, they sent out a picture of a beautiful, smiling, young woman. On the back of the car it said:
"No one smiled where Sunni was held captive in the desperate brothel district of Mumbai, India. But today, thanks to your generosity and the healing hand of God, Sunni is not only smiling... she's in love! Sunni will be married in April - a dream she never thought would come true."
And I thought to myself as I got all choked up, "Sunni I am getting married in April too and I use to think it would never happen for me." And I was amazed how this far away Indian woman who was rescued from a brothel !! could be used to remind me that April weddings happen all over the world. Dreams come true...
Last month, they sent out a picture of a beautiful, smiling, young woman. On the back of the car it said:
"No one smiled where Sunni was held captive in the desperate brothel district of Mumbai, India. But today, thanks to your generosity and the healing hand of God, Sunni is not only smiling... she's in love! Sunni will be married in April - a dream she never thought would come true."
And I thought to myself as I got all choked up, "Sunni I am getting married in April too and I use to think it would never happen for me." And I was amazed how this far away Indian woman who was rescued from a brothel !! could be used to remind me that April weddings happen all over the world. Dreams come true...
Monday, April 14, 2008
April 21, 2005
I was looking for inspiration. I found this from my prayer journal for April 21, 2005.
"... I thought today especially after my walk yesterday (near where I work) I really want to get married in April. I really love April. The light green colors as trees are coming back to life. The pink petaled trees, the swirling pink petals in the air. The goldfish in the pond. The pink petals resting gingerly on the water, the fish and petals moving to their own current. It was poetry in motion.
So I'd really like to get married in April. I've never had much of an opinion about my wedding... But there is something about April that inspires trust. We don't have to worry about the flowers of April forgetting to bloom. They happen whether we worry about it or not. There is something so nice about waking up one day and the grey have become green, yellow and pink.
I am getting sleepy but I am so thankful about how beautiful this spring has been it has truly ministered to my diseased soul."
I had forgotten that I ever thought that April inspires trust. How interesting because I needed to be reminded of that.
"... I thought today especially after my walk yesterday (near where I work) I really want to get married in April. I really love April. The light green colors as trees are coming back to life. The pink petaled trees, the swirling pink petals in the air. The goldfish in the pond. The pink petals resting gingerly on the water, the fish and petals moving to their own current. It was poetry in motion.
So I'd really like to get married in April. I've never had much of an opinion about my wedding... But there is something about April that inspires trust. We don't have to worry about the flowers of April forgetting to bloom. They happen whether we worry about it or not. There is something so nice about waking up one day and the grey have become green, yellow and pink.
I am getting sleepy but I am so thankful about how beautiful this spring has been it has truly ministered to my diseased soul."
I had forgotten that I ever thought that April inspires trust. How interesting because I needed to be reminded of that.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Inquiring Minds Want to Know
Well at least Brandy is wondering...
From my lack of blogging you would think I have been busy. Yes, you could say that you could also say that my poorly set up computer desk is just not conducive to wanting to blog late at night when I am finally home from work, fed, errands run and mind wasted on American Idol or House.
So what's new? A new TV came in the mail this week. The girl taking my place at the House in May bought a new one. It is the best picture I have seen in years! Walter said we couldn't get a new one, but then he hasn't seen this one. I think a new TV would solve his static problems.
Lately for me, its like Christmas everyday! Its fun to see who sent RSVP cards and sometimes there are boxes from Bed, Bath and Beyond!
On March 1 my mom and Carrie had my family & friends Bridal Shower. (I will post pictures another day.) On March 26 the ladies at work threw me a shower. I am amazed at the generosity of people. Both showers were a great blessing to me.
On St. Patrick's Day, (the anniversary of our 1st Date) we went to get a marriage license. It actually took us longer to find a parking spot than to get a license to get married! We had our final session with the pastor. Then, we took my car to the shop because Walter was afraid my tire was about to blow. We were fortunate that the mechanic could take care of it that day. We took the train to Philadelphia to buy wedding bands. Gold is high these days so its not a good time to buy gold rings. Later that night we went to the place we had our first date - Ruby Tuesdays.
I am starting to feel the pinch of last minute things. I have decided not to worry about where Walter's parents will stay. He said that it was their responsibility - this is good for me.
I need to choose songs for the ceremony. I am hoping their will be some nice pink flowers in bloom for the reception centerpieces and that the weather will be nice.
Walter and his dad got new suits today. That's a weight off my mind. I have also begun to move my things over to his apartment. Over half of my books are there and most of my hanging clothes. My mom and I spent most of Saturday cleaning the apartment from top to bottom (Walter is out of town) its squeaky clean and Murphy oiled, windows were glistening and all dust bunnies had been properly sucked up.
So that's what has been going on. Oh yeah, I am looking for a new job and looking forward to seeing the dentist on the 8th. To be honest, I am looking forward to the dentist more than I am looking for or forward to finding a new job!
For all the "stresses", decisions or changes that are soon to be taking place I much rather have them than not have Walter or the pleasure of marrying him.
From my lack of blogging you would think I have been busy. Yes, you could say that you could also say that my poorly set up computer desk is just not conducive to wanting to blog late at night when I am finally home from work, fed, errands run and mind wasted on American Idol or House.
So what's new? A new TV came in the mail this week. The girl taking my place at the House in May bought a new one. It is the best picture I have seen in years! Walter said we couldn't get a new one, but then he hasn't seen this one. I think a new TV would solve his static problems.
Lately for me, its like Christmas everyday! Its fun to see who sent RSVP cards and sometimes there are boxes from Bed, Bath and Beyond!
On March 1 my mom and Carrie had my family & friends Bridal Shower. (I will post pictures another day.) On March 26 the ladies at work threw me a shower. I am amazed at the generosity of people. Both showers were a great blessing to me.
On St. Patrick's Day, (the anniversary of our 1st Date) we went to get a marriage license. It actually took us longer to find a parking spot than to get a license to get married! We had our final session with the pastor. Then, we took my car to the shop because Walter was afraid my tire was about to blow. We were fortunate that the mechanic could take care of it that day. We took the train to Philadelphia to buy wedding bands. Gold is high these days so its not a good time to buy gold rings. Later that night we went to the place we had our first date - Ruby Tuesdays.
I am starting to feel the pinch of last minute things. I have decided not to worry about where Walter's parents will stay. He said that it was their responsibility - this is good for me.
I need to choose songs for the ceremony. I am hoping their will be some nice pink flowers in bloom for the reception centerpieces and that the weather will be nice.
Walter and his dad got new suits today. That's a weight off my mind. I have also begun to move my things over to his apartment. Over half of my books are there and most of my hanging clothes. My mom and I spent most of Saturday cleaning the apartment from top to bottom (Walter is out of town) its squeaky clean and Murphy oiled, windows were glistening and all dust bunnies had been properly sucked up.
So that's what has been going on. Oh yeah, I am looking for a new job and looking forward to seeing the dentist on the 8th. To be honest, I am looking forward to the dentist more than I am looking for or forward to finding a new job!
For all the "stresses", decisions or changes that are soon to be taking place I much rather have them than not have Walter or the pleasure of marrying him.
Friday, February 29, 2008
Surrounded
I have faint memories of being surrounded as a young child. Surrounded by Weeble Wobbles, coloring books, Playskool's Sesame Street, and dolls while watching T.V. I could never just sit still and do one thing.
As you can see from the picture, things haven't changed I am still often surrounded! Only this time it wasn't Weeble Wobbles or even my grown up "toy" -quilting. This time its all the little enclosures that go into wedding invitations!
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
6,307, 200 to Go
I was reminded via a bouquet of Valentine Flowers that there are only 6,307,200 seconds to go until the Wedding Day. I will stick to thinking in terms of days not seconds. Besides I have always had trouble saying numerical words for anything over a hundred thousand.
Now a frequent question I get is "How are the wedding plans going?"
And great progress has been made. Why people say you need a year to plan a wedding is beyone me.
So far we have a wedding dress & veil, photographer, a caterer (menu is selected), DJ is reserved, the invitations arrived today, and florist has been booked. Mom has her dress, Dad has a new suit and mom found the cutest little pale pink dress for our flower girl at TJMaxx.
There has been some consternation over colors which is not fully decided yet but by God there will be pink flowers! So now all that is left to do is little stuff, favors, addressing envelopes, picking out music for the play list & ceremony, finding a bridesmaid dress (ok this one is not so little), arrange who sits where at the reception, pick out flowers etc. I am sure there are lots of other things, but for the most part I am remaining calm. The hardest part is done and that is getting the groom and I Thank God for him. He's done good.
Now a frequent question I get is "How are the wedding plans going?"
And great progress has been made. Why people say you need a year to plan a wedding is beyone me.
So far we have a wedding dress & veil, photographer, a caterer (menu is selected), DJ is reserved, the invitations arrived today, and florist has been booked. Mom has her dress, Dad has a new suit and mom found the cutest little pale pink dress for our flower girl at TJMaxx.
There has been some consternation over colors which is not fully decided yet but by God there will be pink flowers! So now all that is left to do is little stuff, favors, addressing envelopes, picking out music for the play list & ceremony, finding a bridesmaid dress (ok this one is not so little), arrange who sits where at the reception, pick out flowers etc. I am sure there are lots of other things, but for the most part I am remaining calm. The hardest part is done and that is getting the groom and I Thank God for him. He's done good.
Punch Buggy - Yellow
Just as I come out of my driveway and groggily approach a stop sign there is a yellow VW beetle at the corner house. It's like a little bit of summer in the winter gray gloom. I find that some mornings it serves as a little bright morning pick me up. And Lord knows I need all the help I can get as I become increasinly more and more not a morning person!
Thursday, January 17, 2008
More -From the Depths of My Nightstand
This is a scribbling of a funny happening with a preschool student. So this was probably 2001/ 2002. I'll change the name ;-)
5 year old "Scotty" showed up for preschool with dusty hair. On closer inspection I had a flashback to the high school drama club. Baby Powder! We used it to make our hair gray!
"Scotty, were you playing with baby powder?"
"No my baby sister was!" He said, in a matter of fact sort of way.
"Did you think to stop her so she wouldn't get into trouble?" I said.
With a squeal of delight (unique to him), "No, we were having too much fun!"
Oh preschoolers you got to love them!
5 year old "Scotty" showed up for preschool with dusty hair. On closer inspection I had a flashback to the high school drama club. Baby Powder! We used it to make our hair gray!
"Scotty, were you playing with baby powder?"
"No my baby sister was!" He said, in a matter of fact sort of way.
"Did you think to stop her so she wouldn't get into trouble?" I said.
With a squeal of delight (unique to him), "No, we were having too much fun!"
Oh preschoolers you got to love them!
From the Depths of My Nightstand
I cleaned out my nightstand drawer the other day. And found this old scribbling from 1999 - maybe 2000.
In the Center of All that Glory...
In the middle of chapel, I turned around and noticed one of my fellow teachers worshipping God. Her eyes were closed, her hand was lifted up and look of adoration and worship was on her face.
Now because it was "Spirit Week" at school, she was dressed in the school colors -blue and gold. She had blue Christmas balls in a wreath around her head. She had blue and gold tinsel for hair. And she had blue lipstick on! She definitely had school spirit!
My first thought at seeing her worship was, what she must look like to God. I had already had my laugh over her outfit earlier. But here she is serious though looking ridiculous in the presence of God. Is He laughing at her too? or did He get that out of system before she left the house? The thing that struck me is that even though she looked silly there was nothing silly about her worship. That was heartfelt and serious and you could see that on her blue lipped face.
I still take this image to heart -years later- no matter how ridiculous we look on the outside God only sees a heart that is truly worshipping.
In the Center of All that Glory...
In the middle of chapel, I turned around and noticed one of my fellow teachers worshipping God. Her eyes were closed, her hand was lifted up and look of adoration and worship was on her face.
Now because it was "Spirit Week" at school, she was dressed in the school colors -blue and gold. She had blue Christmas balls in a wreath around her head. She had blue and gold tinsel for hair. And she had blue lipstick on! She definitely had school spirit!
My first thought at seeing her worship was, what she must look like to God. I had already had my laugh over her outfit earlier. But here she is serious though looking ridiculous in the presence of God. Is He laughing at her too? or did He get that out of system before she left the house? The thing that struck me is that even though she looked silly there was nothing silly about her worship. That was heartfelt and serious and you could see that on her blue lipped face.
I still take this image to heart -years later- no matter how ridiculous we look on the outside God only sees a heart that is truly worshipping.
The Gospel
So I want to share the epiphany I had today.
Sunday, the pastor was teaching on the Abrahmaic covenant in Genesis 15. Where God asks Abraham to kill some animals and line the pieces up to make a pathway to walk through. In those days when you made a covenant with someone the person promising to do something would walk through the aisle of slaughtered animals indicating that if I don't hold up my end of the bargain you have the right to do to me what was done to these animals. Abraham should have been the one to walk through thus accepting the blessing AND the curses of this covenant.
When the sun had set and darkness had fallen, a smoking firepot with a blazing torch appeared and passed between the pieces. (Gen 15: 17)
But Abraham didn't have to walk through - God did it. He took on the repercussions of our sin and failures. He has taken the curses for us. This is the gospel. This is why God continues to be merciful.
So I was lying on the chiropractor's table today having been all bent of shape for a couple days...
and in talking to the Dr. things became even more clearer to me in light of Sunday's sermon.
I have at times in my life felt dashed to pieces by boyfriends (and quasi-boyfriends,) classmates, society in general, even God. I have spent the last 2-3 years really working to put the pieces back together or clear away the pieces that are stumbling blocks to me. Its a slow process, but I believe that because I have moved in this direction (rather than stay in my rut) Walter was able to find me.
She (the chiropractor) asked me to picture Moses and the Burning Bush and let God continue to burn away the old patterns and fears that have been apart of me for so long. And I thought also of God's blazing torch passing through the pieces.
This is the epiphany part that I shared with her as it all became clearer to me. Though I may have let myself be dashed to pieces in the past. That is a pattern God has now shown me I never have to fall victim to again. I will never be dashed pieces of meat. God has taken that on himself for me.
Knowing this, realizing this, feeling this I know God can be trusted.
I gotta wonder if Abraham felt a little like I did when I left her office - a little shaken up at the realization of what God committed to do (for me), but also really thankful. Really thankful.
Sunday, the pastor was teaching on the Abrahmaic covenant in Genesis 15. Where God asks Abraham to kill some animals and line the pieces up to make a pathway to walk through. In those days when you made a covenant with someone the person promising to do something would walk through the aisle of slaughtered animals indicating that if I don't hold up my end of the bargain you have the right to do to me what was done to these animals. Abraham should have been the one to walk through thus accepting the blessing AND the curses of this covenant.
When the sun had set and darkness had fallen, a smoking firepot with a blazing torch appeared and passed between the pieces. (Gen 15: 17)
But Abraham didn't have to walk through - God did it. He took on the repercussions of our sin and failures. He has taken the curses for us. This is the gospel. This is why God continues to be merciful.
So I was lying on the chiropractor's table today having been all bent of shape for a couple days...
and in talking to the Dr. things became even more clearer to me in light of Sunday's sermon.
I have at times in my life felt dashed to pieces by boyfriends (and quasi-boyfriends,) classmates, society in general, even God. I have spent the last 2-3 years really working to put the pieces back together or clear away the pieces that are stumbling blocks to me. Its a slow process, but I believe that because I have moved in this direction (rather than stay in my rut) Walter was able to find me.
She (the chiropractor) asked me to picture Moses and the Burning Bush and let God continue to burn away the old patterns and fears that have been apart of me for so long. And I thought also of God's blazing torch passing through the pieces.
This is the epiphany part that I shared with her as it all became clearer to me. Though I may have let myself be dashed to pieces in the past. That is a pattern God has now shown me I never have to fall victim to again. I will never be dashed pieces of meat. God has taken that on himself for me.
Knowing this, realizing this, feeling this I know God can be trusted.
I gotta wonder if Abraham felt a little like I did when I left her office - a little shaken up at the realization of what God committed to do (for me), but also really thankful. Really thankful.
Monday, December 31, 2007
The Big Annoucement
So I waited a long time to make a purchase at Macy's today. Seemed almost fitting that I should have to wait so long to pay for something that I have waited so long to have occasion to wear.
I'll just say its for my trousseau...
This is my somewhat backward way of announcing: I am getting married in April!!!
That's right folks Walter proposed and of course I said yes. It made for a very memorable 34th birthday -much better than last year!
It hardly seems possible when you look at where I was this time last year. God has been faithful. Each day it hits me softly or suddenly, sometimes like a wave sometimes like a breeze that there is hope for women in their 30s to find godly men or should I say be found.
I'll just say its for my trousseau...
This is my somewhat backward way of announcing: I am getting married in April!!!
That's right folks Walter proposed and of course I said yes. It made for a very memorable 34th birthday -much better than last year!
It hardly seems possible when you look at where I was this time last year. God has been faithful. Each day it hits me softly or suddenly, sometimes like a wave sometimes like a breeze that there is hope for women in their 30s to find godly men or should I say be found.
Don't give up hope. I thanked God today that He had me wait as long as I did. It makes this time all the more special and romantic. In all the world, he had Walter find me. And he was worth the wait!
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Lizzy's Ascolane Fried Olives
Bite size pieces of savory bliss - that's what fried stuffed olives are.
This recipe is particular to Ascoli Piceno where my great grandparents are from. I have been there twice now and they always serve up this speciality item.
My family usually has them for Christmas, but I was never really crazy about them until I tried them in Italy. And I loved them. Somehow being in another country, makes trying new things easier... I even learned to like fresh figs in Italy too.
So no one ever tells me when they are making the stuffed olives so I don't know how to make them properly but the Internet provided me with 2 decent recipes. (#1 and #2) which I altered to suit myself (took out the Parmesan cheese). I have heard that you have to cut the olive in a spiral to remove the pit and then you get a little ball of meat and wrap the spiral olive around the meat. So it returns to its olive shape and then you bread it and fry it. (You can read the recipes if you want more details.)
But when I actually opened the jar of olives to begin the process of cutting the olive like a spiral. I realized why everyone says, "It really hard work and its an all day project." NO JOKE. And when you don't have a decent knife around... well you have to cut some corners somewhere... or in this case cut some curves.
So I decided to follow through with an idea I had had before. I cut the olive off the pit. Put the olives in a food processor and diced them up a little then mixed the olive bits in with the meat concoction. Then preceded to bread them. I fried a couple to sample. And they were good! Not the same as the authentic Ascolane Olives but a nice twist (or lack of twist/spiral). It still took a good long time to cut up 80+/- olives, but certainly less time than spiral cutting them.
Perhaps next year I will have better knives to work with and I will try this recipe the traditional way... until then... the family can feast on Lizzy's Ascolane Fried Olives.
Happy Squatter
Yesterday was the baby's birthday. One year ago yesterday, I got to see the little "feisty peanut" come into the world. Wow hard to believe the year has gone by already. She is a joy to watch. This is a picture of her squatting. Something she may have learned from me ;-)
I have the ability to squat. My old roommate Jenn called it my "Haitian Squat" because while on a mission trip in Haiti she saw so many women squatting in the water to wash clothes. I find squatting good for gardening, cutting out fabric and other things...
Its a great ability to have. Glad to see the baby can squat with the rest of us.
I have the ability to squat. My old roommate Jenn called it my "Haitian Squat" because while on a mission trip in Haiti she saw so many women squatting in the water to wash clothes. I find squatting good for gardening, cutting out fabric and other things...
Its a great ability to have. Glad to see the baby can squat with the rest of us.
Wednesday, December 05, 2007
Fully Committed Part 2
This is the TV Cabinet Walter and I hauled up the stairs. I have thought a lot about that adventure. One could say it was a real relationship builder.While mulling over what it means to be fully committed, I recalled a conversation I had with a Christian woman recently about a time when she and her husband were experiencing a lot of tension and she considered getting a divorce. The fact that divorce was threatened added more pressure to an already ugly tension.
But then, like me pushing up the rear of this TV cabinet, she made the conscious decision that divorce was not an option for her after all. She would stick it out no matter how difficult. She told her husband, "I am in this for the long haul. Divorce is not an option." That decision made all the difference in the marriage and relationship.
I hear marriage is work and you have to be fully committed... to making it work. Otherwise you might be left holding the TV cabinet or end up with one on your head!
Friday, November 30, 2007
Pie Dough Confessions
I can't say I have ever made my own pie crust. I hear that if you play with the dough too much the pie crust won't come out right. (Although with a cursory look online I can't something to quote.)
Though I have no first hand knowledge of pie crust gone bad, I feel at times as though I ankle deep in pie dough and my hands are a mess with it. It is when I am meddling or putting the cart before the horse trying to force my agenda or hurry God up that I get the sense that I am ruining the pie crust by my hands being so much in the moment or the mess.
Though I have no first hand knowledge of pie crust gone bad, I feel at times as though I ankle deep in pie dough and my hands are a mess with it. It is when I am meddling or putting the cart before the horse trying to force my agenda or hurry God up that I get the sense that I am ruining the pie crust by my hands being so much in the moment or the mess.
I told my boss I feel like am ruining the pie crust with my putting the horse before the cart. He said, "No you?!!?" He knows my propensity for getting ahead of myself.
My hands almost feel messy. Its been happening a lot lately. Its no good, even though I am conscious of my errors its so hard to break out of this pattern and keep my hands off the dough as much as possible! Though there is not much I can do about the already ruined "pie crusts", I am trying to check myself and say, "Liz you are playing with the pie dough too much."
Thursday, November 29, 2007
A Report on the Pumpkin Sorbet
Thanksgiving Day's Pumpkin Sorbet created an interesting sensation. Most of my family tried it. And many liked it. Gram admitted she didn't care for it. I enjoyed my 4th batch best. Using the ice cream maker made all the difference! Many thanks again to the 2 people who posted a recipe and a link! Good stuff!
It's just nice to try something different once in awhile!
It's just nice to try something different once in awhile!
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
White Merlot & Red Pears
I don't like pears. I have finally gotten my Gram trained not to offer me pears. It has taken decades... On a whim I decided to try a red pear. I heard that there are pears that aren't gritty. (Its the grittiness I don't like.) I thought perhaps it was the red pear they were talking about.
Walter peeled the skin and sliced it up and it was like a little piece of sweet heaven! On another whim, I added a few pieces of red pear to the Forest Glen White Merlot I was sipping. Perhaps it was a perfect pear -pure sweetness no grittiness- coupled with wine. Oh my was it ever good!
I sad when I had eaten the last little morsel. I'll have to let Gram know she can start offering me red pears all the better if she has some White Merlot on hand as well! Its a grand combination. Its nice to let the tastebuds live a little on the edge.
Walter peeled the skin and sliced it up and it was like a little piece of sweet heaven! On another whim, I added a few pieces of red pear to the Forest Glen White Merlot I was sipping. Perhaps it was a perfect pear -pure sweetness no grittiness- coupled with wine. Oh my was it ever good!
I sad when I had eaten the last little morsel. I'll have to let Gram know she can start offering me red pears all the better if she has some White Merlot on hand as well! Its a grand combination. Its nice to let the tastebuds live a little on the edge.
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Fully Committed
Walter and I have been scoping out a used furniture store for something to keep the TV in. Sunday, we found the perfect piece. It was custom made by a Lancaster County Amish furniture company and was every bit as nice as Ethan Allen! He measured and figured we could fit it.
Lightening the load, he took off the doors and lazy susan inside the cabinet, then, I had to decide if I could handle helping him carry it up the narrow steep stairs. First I started up the stairs going backwards with him in the rear but I just didn't have the strength to hoist it and walk backwards. We got up 2 steps and I said, "I can't do it." Knowing full well that I couldn't do it and if continued to try I would crush him and possible kill him. That was way too much pressure. So we switched, I pushed from the rear and he dragged it up step by step.
Never in my life have I do something so physically difficult. The weight and size of the cabinet was almost just too much. We had only gone a couple steps when I realized there is no going back I need to finish this and yet I didn't think I could. I said to myself, "I am just going to have to go find someone to help!" I knew that no matter what Walter wouldn't let go because he would crush or kill me if he did. The magnitude of that was overwhelming on so many levels. I also thought of soldiers at war when they are in the midst of a difficult battle, they can't say, "I am not going be able to swing this. I'll see if I can get someone else to fill in." No, they are fully committed, the only option is to keep going no matter what. They complete the task or die trying. So I called out to God to give me strength and I stretched out my arms and pushed. And finally after what seemed like hours we reached the landing. I was out of breath and shaking!
I had this strange desire to cry too. It was a good while before I settled down and even now my muscles ache! If I had known how difficult it was going to be I wouldn't have attempted it.
The cabinet looks really nice though!
Lightening the load, he took off the doors and lazy susan inside the cabinet, then, I had to decide if I could handle helping him carry it up the narrow steep stairs. First I started up the stairs going backwards with him in the rear but I just didn't have the strength to hoist it and walk backwards. We got up 2 steps and I said, "I can't do it." Knowing full well that I couldn't do it and if continued to try I would crush him and possible kill him. That was way too much pressure. So we switched, I pushed from the rear and he dragged it up step by step.
Never in my life have I do something so physically difficult. The weight and size of the cabinet was almost just too much. We had only gone a couple steps when I realized there is no going back I need to finish this and yet I didn't think I could. I said to myself, "I am just going to have to go find someone to help!" I knew that no matter what Walter wouldn't let go because he would crush or kill me if he did. The magnitude of that was overwhelming on so many levels. I also thought of soldiers at war when they are in the midst of a difficult battle, they can't say, "I am not going be able to swing this. I'll see if I can get someone else to fill in." No, they are fully committed, the only option is to keep going no matter what. They complete the task or die trying. So I called out to God to give me strength and I stretched out my arms and pushed. And finally after what seemed like hours we reached the landing. I was out of breath and shaking!
I had this strange desire to cry too. It was a good while before I settled down and even now my muscles ache! If I had known how difficult it was going to be I wouldn't have attempted it.
The cabinet looks really nice though!
Comments
Whoever sent me the link for the sorbet recipe THANK YOU. I hadn't come across that one.
Ironically though, my roommate came home tonight with the same recipe for me which works out great because I don't have a printer at home.
I am going to give it a try this week. First I have to dig part of the ice cream maker out of the freezer. No easy task!
Someone also asked about where I find things like the big wheel bike. I was at a local antique car club event. And as those particular bikes were in keeping with the era he was invited to join the fun! The man was riding all around on the bike and was letting people try and hop on. I saw a couple of teenage girls do it so I figured I could do it too.
Ironically though, my roommate came home tonight with the same recipe for me which works out great because I don't have a printer at home.
I am going to give it a try this week. First I have to dig part of the ice cream maker out of the freezer. No easy task!
Someone also asked about where I find things like the big wheel bike. I was at a local antique car club event. And as those particular bikes were in keeping with the era he was invited to join the fun! The man was riding all around on the bike and was letting people try and hop on. I saw a couple of teenage girls do it so I figured I could do it too.
Thursday, November 01, 2007
Big Bike
This was a big step up for me.
(Haha get it?!)
Sometimes you have to just try things once in your life, so you can at least say you tried.
I am not so sure I would try again because it was a big step for a little woman, but I look cool if nothing else!
(Haha get it?!)
Sometimes you have to just try things once in your life, so you can at least say you tried.
I am not so sure I would try again because it was a big step for a little woman, but I look cool if nothing else!
More Than You Think
I was reading tonight that when a woman is pregnant with a girl, she holds inside of her more than just her unborn daughter. A baby girl is born with all eggs she will ever produce.
Its a different way of seeing 3 generations of women...
Once upon a time, Elizabeth Spreng was pregnant with my mom, Nancy. And baby Nancy held inside her the egg that would become me. And suddenly I felt a connection to a grandmother I never got to meet... but in some strange way I have.
This struck me as amazing and certainly something that declares that hope, glory and wonder abound!
Its a different way of seeing 3 generations of women...
Once upon a time, Elizabeth Spreng was pregnant with my mom, Nancy. And baby Nancy held inside her the egg that would become me. And suddenly I felt a connection to a grandmother I never got to meet... but in some strange way I have.
This struck me as amazing and certainly something that declares that hope, glory and wonder abound!
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Baby in the Sink
I have fond memories of getting bathes in the kitchen sink. It would seem this little water bug
likes the idea of playing in the kitchen sink too. She was squealing with delight... They just don't getting cuter than this.
likes the idea of playing in the kitchen sink too. She was squealing with delight... They just don't getting cuter than this.
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
Noel
"Josh Groban" happened to stand out in my recent junk mail from Amazon. And I thought to myself, "maybe he has a new CD out!"
"Then what to my wondering eyes should behold" but a Christmas album entitled "Noel!"
Praise the Lord!
I've been saying for awhile Josh Groban should do a Christmas album. I even went so far -one time- to send that suggestion in on his website. Though I am sure I am not the only to suggest it.
"Then what to my wondering eyes should behold" but a Christmas album entitled "Noel!"
Praise the Lord!
I've been saying for awhile Josh Groban should do a Christmas album. I even went so far -one time- to send that suggestion in on his website. Though I am sure I am not the only to suggest it.
At long last my hope has seen fruition! So when it is time to "tis the season" and start playing carols I plan on revealing in his melodic voice as he sings such all time favorites as: Ava Maria, What Child is this and The First Noel
Monday, October 08, 2007
Brown Shoes
Fall has always meant the beginning of school to me, and the beginning of school meant new crayons and new brown shoes.
These are last years shoes. 
I love them. The love the sound they make as clip clop around. I like the height they give me. They make me feel professional and classy. They make me think of school days. I had more to say believe it or not on how these shoes made me feel but I can't remember now 4 days later. I do remember it was about 8pm before they really started to hurt my feet so that is an improvement from last year!
I love them. The love the sound they make as clip clop around. I like the height they give me. They make me feel professional and classy. They make me think of school days. Tuesday, October 02, 2007
Duty & Dentist
It's not often you get to go to jury duty and the dentist on the same day - 2 things that people "love" to do. Today, was my lucky day - I did both!
9am I reported for jury duty at the county courthouse. I was one of 75 potential jurors questioned for none other than a murder case! I sat with in feet of an accused murderer. Can you believe that? It freaked me out.
I didn't get picked - only 2 women were picked. It was an interesting experience to say the least and I could probably say more about it... I liked how you could give you stipend to a local charity. Rather than going to the bank to cash a check for $13. I was appalled at the number of people who dressed like they were going to the gym. This is professional atmosphere and your fulfilling a civic duty - for heavens sake come up with something better than sweatpants!
By 12:45pm the jury had been picked and I was on my merry way. I headed back to work where I had to hurry to catch up because I knew I need to get out in time to get to the dentist.
I'll admit I wished I had just not gone back to work.
I am glad to have had the experience... Jury duty is not like Law and Order. Real life is really slow!
Glad to report also my chompers are just fine!
9am I reported for jury duty at the county courthouse. I was one of 75 potential jurors questioned for none other than a murder case! I sat with in feet of an accused murderer. Can you believe that? It freaked me out.
I didn't get picked - only 2 women were picked. It was an interesting experience to say the least and I could probably say more about it... I liked how you could give you stipend to a local charity. Rather than going to the bank to cash a check for $13. I was appalled at the number of people who dressed like they were going to the gym. This is professional atmosphere and your fulfilling a civic duty - for heavens sake come up with something better than sweatpants!
By 12:45pm the jury had been picked and I was on my merry way. I headed back to work where I had to hurry to catch up because I knew I need to get out in time to get to the dentist.
I'll admit I wished I had just not gone back to work.
I am glad to have had the experience... Jury duty is not like Law and Order. Real life is really slow!
Glad to report also my chompers are just fine!
Pumpkin Sorbet
It was an orange colored delight in a pumpkin bowl. It was a frosty pumpkin pie without a crust. It was scoop of heaven for lunch. It cleared the palate and had me searching the Internet for a recipe. Pumpkin sorbet nothing could be finer...
I haven't found a recipe that seems remotely like what we had but I will keep looking and I might even experiment.
I haven't found a recipe that seems remotely like what we had but I will keep looking and I might even experiment.
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
The War
This week PBS is airing The War a documentary on World War II. I watched some of it with Walter in between my bike riding induced nap... There was a segment on Guadalcanal an island in the pacific...
August 7, 1942
"American land forces go on the offensive for the first time in the Pacific, landing on Guadalcanal. It would take six months to secure the island, but Japanese expansion is halted."
It was particularly gruesome and in the end 35,000 American soldiers died on Guadalcanal at the hands of Japanese bombers.
So I asked my Grampop tonight if he had been watching the show. I knew he had been stationed in the Pacific but I couldn't remember where. So I asked and you know where he said he was?
GUADALCANAL!
I have heard plenty of his stories but to see the pictures and video from the documentary that go along with his stories makes it a heck of a lot more relevant!
To think my grampop was there in the jungles with all the bugs, heat, death all around...
Granted he wasn't at Guadalcanal from the beginning, he was one of the reinforcements but he said "it was bad enough."
Interestingly, he said toward the end of his tour he was helping with a shipment of dynamite.
Looking on the box he read, "DuPont Gibbstown" and exclaimed to the men he was working with "My dad made this dynamite." To think Grampop wasn't the one shipped over from Gibbstown during the war... They were shipping dynamite made at DuPont plant in Gibbstown.
August 7, 1942
"American land forces go on the offensive for the first time in the Pacific, landing on Guadalcanal. It would take six months to secure the island, but Japanese expansion is halted."
It was particularly gruesome and in the end 35,000 American soldiers died on Guadalcanal at the hands of Japanese bombers.
So I asked my Grampop tonight if he had been watching the show. I knew he had been stationed in the Pacific but I couldn't remember where. So I asked and you know where he said he was?
GUADALCANAL!
I have heard plenty of his stories but to see the pictures and video from the documentary that go along with his stories makes it a heck of a lot more relevant!
To think my grampop was there in the jungles with all the bugs, heat, death all around...
Granted he wasn't at Guadalcanal from the beginning, he was one of the reinforcements but he said "it was bad enough."
Interestingly, he said toward the end of his tour he was helping with a shipment of dynamite.
Looking on the box he read, "DuPont Gibbstown" and exclaimed to the men he was working with "My dad made this dynamite." To think Grampop wasn't the one shipped over from Gibbstown during the war... They were shipping dynamite made at DuPont plant in Gibbstown.
Clockwork
Like clock work the same tree in front of the same house in the same town always starts to change colors at the same time every year. It's the same tree but with a different crop of leaves yet the leaves always seem to follow in the tradition of being one of the first trees to hint that autumn is coming.
I am always amazed at the clockwork of this tree each year.
My clock works (and its the same one I used as a little girl) it just has a hard time getting me up and out of bed. But I am turning over a new leaf. Attempting to get to work by 8:30am each day. In recent months, I have been edging closer to 9am and this is not really acceptable.
I'd like to get up at 7am so I can have time to unload the dishwasher or eat breakfast at home instead of work. I have been more successful at getting to work by 8:30 than I have of getting up at 7am.
I guess change happens -one leaf at a time.
I'd really like to get to a point were I am drinking more water. Seems silly but I believe I am dehydrating myself! I think that will be the next leaf to turn over.
I am always amazed at the clockwork of this tree each year.
My clock works (and its the same one I used as a little girl) it just has a hard time getting me up and out of bed. But I am turning over a new leaf. Attempting to get to work by 8:30am each day. In recent months, I have been edging closer to 9am and this is not really acceptable.
I'd like to get up at 7am so I can have time to unload the dishwasher or eat breakfast at home instead of work. I have been more successful at getting to work by 8:30 than I have of getting up at 7am.
I guess change happens -one leaf at a time.
I'd really like to get to a point were I am drinking more water. Seems silly but I believe I am dehydrating myself! I think that will be the next leaf to turn over.
Monday, September 24, 2007
Old Bikes
On the way to church yesterday, Walter spotted bikes for sale on someone's front lawn. The sign read, "$5!" So we decided to stop on the way home. We came away with 3 bikes for $10 -some were free.
We spent the afternoon cleaning them up, replacing an inner tube and a set of brakes. Which incidentally I did mostly on my own.
I keep forgetting that Walter will make me work on these kinds of tasks with him not just watch. Like the time he said we would clean out my car inside and out. I brought a quilting project so I could work on that while he buffed my car. Instead he handed me 3 boxes and said, "Take everything out and put in these boxes: Put in the house box, put back in the car box and trash." Yeah so much for sitting by and watching!
So we got the bikes oiled and adjusted and you know they aren't bad for $5 or less! Just in the nick of time for me because I have been trying to get more exercise but nothing appeals to me. However, riding bike is a joy for me. I love the wind through my hair. It had been so long since I rode a bike. I forgot how it exhilarates me! And yesterday, really was a picture perfect day -weather wise- so as we were riding the bikes around I felt like I was really vacationing in Cape Cod or Prince Edward Island. I was reminded of the scene in Anne of Avonlea when Anne and Gilbert Blythe were riding bike together. Fortunately, Walter didn't end up in the lake like Gilbert did!
It was a good project for us that's for sure. I now have a bike at my house and Walter's so there is no excuse for me to not get some exercise at least until the snow starts falling or its just too unbearable cold.
We spent the afternoon cleaning them up, replacing an inner tube and a set of brakes. Which incidentally I did mostly on my own.
I keep forgetting that Walter will make me work on these kinds of tasks with him not just watch. Like the time he said we would clean out my car inside and out. I brought a quilting project so I could work on that while he buffed my car. Instead he handed me 3 boxes and said, "Take everything out and put in these boxes: Put in the house box, put back in the car box and trash." Yeah so much for sitting by and watching!
So we got the bikes oiled and adjusted and you know they aren't bad for $5 or less! Just in the nick of time for me because I have been trying to get more exercise but nothing appeals to me. However, riding bike is a joy for me. I love the wind through my hair. It had been so long since I rode a bike. I forgot how it exhilarates me! And yesterday, really was a picture perfect day -weather wise- so as we were riding the bikes around I felt like I was really vacationing in Cape Cod or Prince Edward Island. I was reminded of the scene in Anne of Avonlea when Anne and Gilbert Blythe were riding bike together. Fortunately, Walter didn't end up in the lake like Gilbert did!
It was a good project for us that's for sure. I now have a bike at my house and Walter's so there is no excuse for me to not get some exercise at least until the snow starts falling or its just too unbearable cold.
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
20 Best Books
These are the 20 top books that have impacted me the most... not necessarily in any order.
1 Miss Twiggley’s Tree This is my all time favorite children’s book. It is a sweet sing song-e story with a great moral at the end especially geared for a kids like me… a little bit shy.
2 Allure of Hope by Jan Meyers Many years ago it occurred to me that hope is a risk and that just didn’t make sense. Jan Meyers explained why hope is a risk and why it’s a necessary risk to take to live life to the fullest. This book has answered nagging questions and has done more to impact my spiritual growth than most any other book. I go back to it from time to time and let her wisdom seep back into my parched having-a-hard-time-with-hope-soul.
3 Hind’s Feet on High Places by Hannah Hunnard As evidence by the series of devotionals I wrote based from this book it is clearly a favorite and also made a huge impact on my Christian walk. Each time I have read it I have gotten something new out it.
4 Sacred Romance by John Eldredge & Brent Curtis For me this book was like eating a large steak I had to read each chapter twice to get it fully digested. But all this additional chewing was well worth it. It just filled in the blanks, and made me feel beloved by the lover of my soul and that’s a good feeling.
5 Journey of Desire by John Eldredge I had never thought too much about heaven but this book made me realize that eternity is full of worship and that it will be more than singing the same chorus over and over. This made me feel a lot more comfortable about going to heaven… I have also been challenged not to let my deep desires go unnoticed or repressed but to live them out to the glory of God
6 Wild at Heart by John Eldredge If you want to understand men better then this is the book to read. If you know a man that seems a little lost in a world that tries to make men be “nice” and stay in the cubicles at work you might encourage them to read it as well.
7. 10,000 Things to Praise God There have been times when finding something to praise God for has been difficult. There have been times when I just wanted to know what someone else was praising God for. In college, my roommate Brandy and I would read a few pages from this book before going to bed and we would highlight or star the ones we felt a particular “Amen” to. It’s the kind of book you keep on reading over and over.
8 What Happens When Women Pray Great stories, truly meaningful ideas that can be implemented so easily into a prayer group. One of the simplest yet effective ideas I have gotten is when praying in a small group where each person shares, to pray after each person instead of at the end after everyone has shared. Something so simple has made an impact on the prayer groups I have been in because for a few minutes the focus is on just one person and their needs.
9 I Went to the Animal Fair (Heather Harpham Knopp The best way I can describe this book is that it comes full circle in such a beautiful way. It is a painful book but sometimes to deal with our own pain we need to process with someone that has been down that road before. Healing can be grueling but in the end quite glorious. I marvel over her writing style and say to myself at the conclusion of each chapter, “She is a genius for tying all these random ends together.” The author captures the day to day, moment to moment process with poetic prose and imagery that is real and sometimes startling… but that’s life isn’t?
10 Anticipatience. Finally a Singles book that doesn’t read like fingernails on a chalk board. OK not everyone will agree with me on that note. There was some of the usual stuff in there, but there was actually some new ideas in here that I had just never thought of before. And I got all fired up. Just ask my dad…
11 The Complete Works of E.M.Bounds I discovered Bounds at time when I was in a season of prayer and fasting and a little brokenhearted. He just made sense and was in a way a cheerleader for lack of a better word to keep on praying and then pray some more because it does matter. It does make a difference. I often got a picture of this fiery little man standing on a soapbox under a big tent saying with great authority and fervor, “The Church is looking for better methods; God is looking for better men. The Holy Ghost does not flow through methods, but through men. He does not come on machinery, but on men. He does not anoint plans, but men…Men of prayer."
12 The Spirit Controlled Woman by Beverly LaHaye This in depth look into personality temperaments was just eye-opening to me 10 years ago when I first read it. I started to figure out why I do some of the things I do and why I act the way I act and what I can do to harness my weaknesses and make them into strengths. Mostly it helped identify my strengths and weakness so I could put a name to a feeling or reaction.
13 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman Yet again one of the books that’s made a huge impact on my life. Though you’d never know from my dating track record… It has helped me understand people, students and significant others (when I happen to have one) much better.
14 Daughter of China by C. Hope Flinchbaugh I am partial to this book because I met the author and she deeply ministered to me. Her novel is a phenomenal look into the terrors and joys of being a Christian in China.
15 Love Walked Among Us By Paul Miller Jesus became so much more real to me as I was reading this book. It was challenging and refreshing. I just kept thinking I wish ______ would read this book that way they could see who Jesus really is.
16 The Light and the Glory by Peter Marshall & David Manuel it has been a long time since I read this but American history came alive for me in this book and to think about how God’s hand was constantly on this fledgling nation was just awe-inspiring.
17 Prescriptions for Nutritional Healing I refer to this book quite often when a case of hypochondria over takes me or I hear of a friend or loved one that has some kind of health issue. It is a good place to start in understanding the condition and offering some alternative healthcare suggestions. I used the book extensively when I was battling Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
18 The Narrative of the Captivity and Restoration of Mrs. Mary Rowlandson by Mary Rowlandson I read this as part of American Literature class in college. I had never heard of the story/book before and I was greatly moved. At 20 it started to sink into my head the importance of memorizing scripture or at the very least memorizing the principles and concepts and getting the truth deeply planted in the heart so that when in some kind of “captivity” you will always have the truth of scripture with you. Mary survived an Indian captivity because the Word was in heart and it gave her strength to rely on the truth she had studied. I made it my business to get to a place where I really knew scripture well because of this book.
19 Loving Soren This was a page turner for me and also a timely much needed look into what happens when we make an idol of the man we love. It was not your typical novel. It is based on the life of Soren Kierkegaard, I am convinced that it was a better read for me because I didn’t know anything about Soren other than that he was a famous writer/philosopher. Not knowing more about him made the book more suspenseful.
20 No Compromise by Melody Green This is the autobiography of Keith Green lyricists of numerous praise and worship songs. This is the book the Holy Spirit led me to and used to teach and prepare me for some trying times.
1 Miss Twiggley’s Tree This is my all time favorite children’s book. It is a sweet sing song-e story with a great moral at the end especially geared for a kids like me… a little bit shy.
2 Allure of Hope by Jan Meyers Many years ago it occurred to me that hope is a risk and that just didn’t make sense. Jan Meyers explained why hope is a risk and why it’s a necessary risk to take to live life to the fullest. This book has answered nagging questions and has done more to impact my spiritual growth than most any other book. I go back to it from time to time and let her wisdom seep back into my parched having-a-hard-time-with-hope-soul.
3 Hind’s Feet on High Places by Hannah Hunnard As evidence by the series of devotionals I wrote based from this book it is clearly a favorite and also made a huge impact on my Christian walk. Each time I have read it I have gotten something new out it.
4 Sacred Romance by John Eldredge & Brent Curtis For me this book was like eating a large steak I had to read each chapter twice to get it fully digested. But all this additional chewing was well worth it. It just filled in the blanks, and made me feel beloved by the lover of my soul and that’s a good feeling.
5 Journey of Desire by John Eldredge I had never thought too much about heaven but this book made me realize that eternity is full of worship and that it will be more than singing the same chorus over and over. This made me feel a lot more comfortable about going to heaven… I have also been challenged not to let my deep desires go unnoticed or repressed but to live them out to the glory of God
6 Wild at Heart by John Eldredge If you want to understand men better then this is the book to read. If you know a man that seems a little lost in a world that tries to make men be “nice” and stay in the cubicles at work you might encourage them to read it as well.
7. 10,000 Things to Praise God There have been times when finding something to praise God for has been difficult. There have been times when I just wanted to know what someone else was praising God for. In college, my roommate Brandy and I would read a few pages from this book before going to bed and we would highlight or star the ones we felt a particular “Amen” to. It’s the kind of book you keep on reading over and over.
8 What Happens When Women Pray Great stories, truly meaningful ideas that can be implemented so easily into a prayer group. One of the simplest yet effective ideas I have gotten is when praying in a small group where each person shares, to pray after each person instead of at the end after everyone has shared. Something so simple has made an impact on the prayer groups I have been in because for a few minutes the focus is on just one person and their needs.
9 I Went to the Animal Fair (Heather Harpham Knopp The best way I can describe this book is that it comes full circle in such a beautiful way. It is a painful book but sometimes to deal with our own pain we need to process with someone that has been down that road before. Healing can be grueling but in the end quite glorious. I marvel over her writing style and say to myself at the conclusion of each chapter, “She is a genius for tying all these random ends together.” The author captures the day to day, moment to moment process with poetic prose and imagery that is real and sometimes startling… but that’s life isn’t?
10 Anticipatience. Finally a Singles book that doesn’t read like fingernails on a chalk board. OK not everyone will agree with me on that note. There was some of the usual stuff in there, but there was actually some new ideas in here that I had just never thought of before. And I got all fired up. Just ask my dad…
11 The Complete Works of E.M.Bounds I discovered Bounds at time when I was in a season of prayer and fasting and a little brokenhearted. He just made sense and was in a way a cheerleader for lack of a better word to keep on praying and then pray some more because it does matter. It does make a difference. I often got a picture of this fiery little man standing on a soapbox under a big tent saying with great authority and fervor, “The Church is looking for better methods; God is looking for better men. The Holy Ghost does not flow through methods, but through men. He does not come on machinery, but on men. He does not anoint plans, but men…Men of prayer."
12 The Spirit Controlled Woman by Beverly LaHaye This in depth look into personality temperaments was just eye-opening to me 10 years ago when I first read it. I started to figure out why I do some of the things I do and why I act the way I act and what I can do to harness my weaknesses and make them into strengths. Mostly it helped identify my strengths and weakness so I could put a name to a feeling or reaction.
13 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman Yet again one of the books that’s made a huge impact on my life. Though you’d never know from my dating track record… It has helped me understand people, students and significant others (when I happen to have one) much better.
14 Daughter of China by C. Hope Flinchbaugh I am partial to this book because I met the author and she deeply ministered to me. Her novel is a phenomenal look into the terrors and joys of being a Christian in China.
15 Love Walked Among Us By Paul Miller Jesus became so much more real to me as I was reading this book. It was challenging and refreshing. I just kept thinking I wish ______ would read this book that way they could see who Jesus really is.
16 The Light and the Glory by Peter Marshall & David Manuel it has been a long time since I read this but American history came alive for me in this book and to think about how God’s hand was constantly on this fledgling nation was just awe-inspiring.
17 Prescriptions for Nutritional Healing I refer to this book quite often when a case of hypochondria over takes me or I hear of a friend or loved one that has some kind of health issue. It is a good place to start in understanding the condition and offering some alternative healthcare suggestions. I used the book extensively when I was battling Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
18 The Narrative of the Captivity and Restoration of Mrs. Mary Rowlandson by Mary Rowlandson I read this as part of American Literature class in college. I had never heard of the story/book before and I was greatly moved. At 20 it started to sink into my head the importance of memorizing scripture or at the very least memorizing the principles and concepts and getting the truth deeply planted in the heart so that when in some kind of “captivity” you will always have the truth of scripture with you. Mary survived an Indian captivity because the Word was in heart and it gave her strength to rely on the truth she had studied. I made it my business to get to a place where I really knew scripture well because of this book.
19 Loving Soren This was a page turner for me and also a timely much needed look into what happens when we make an idol of the man we love. It was not your typical novel. It is based on the life of Soren Kierkegaard, I am convinced that it was a better read for me because I didn’t know anything about Soren other than that he was a famous writer/philosopher. Not knowing more about him made the book more suspenseful.
20 No Compromise by Melody Green This is the autobiography of Keith Green lyricists of numerous praise and worship songs. This is the book the Holy Spirit led me to and used to teach and prepare me for some trying times.
Friday, August 17, 2007
Riddle
Riddle: What do you get when you put together a wedding, a hospitable friend and a couple plane tickets?
Answer: A couple out for an adventure.
But where?: The home of my old "fathers & mothers", where sunflowers grow tall, wine flows freely and a tomato gets its name from one of the country's major cities.
"Arrivederci, Havertown PA"...
I am going on a vacation in 10 days!
Answer: A couple out for an adventure.
But where?: The home of my old "fathers & mothers", where sunflowers grow tall, wine flows freely and a tomato gets its name from one of the country's major cities.
"Arrivederci, Havertown PA"...
I am going on a vacation in 10 days!
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
St. Peter's Rocks
Well it could go either way St. Peter's rocks or St. Peter's ROCKS!
In this case, I am really talking about rocks...
Walter and I went hiking on a rocky creek in St. Peter's Village. It was a pleasant day for climbing from rock to rock... my favorite pastime! Kids were splashing around in the water. Others were making there way on the maze of rocks. Some just watched as the rest of us played.
It's such an exhilarating place! Can even be a cure for PMS induced crankiness! (At least for me anyway.) We climbed large boulders. It is a problem solving sort of place because you really have to think about how to get from here to there without getting wet or hurt!
And towards the end we found a rock to sit on and dip our feet in without actually having to touch the slimy bottom. As much as I love creeks I can't tolerate the slimy rocks!
In the Valley
Vrooom went my engine as I climbed the steep hill wondering if I should take it like the Dukes of Hazzard or slower like an Amish buggie. I decided on slow, figuring I would savor better the valley that is revealed when you drive this stretch of road.
Yeah, good thing I opted for slow so I could see the deer coming into the road just over the hill! Valley Forge deer are so trusting and I often wonder what the % is of deer that get hit by cars. Thankfully, my car didn't increase the %.
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