Live & Learn with Sally

What Up? . . . with the Friday Forum.

2012-02-18T19:29:00.000-08:00

It's time for a round up with the Friday Forum. M, office on the north end, has inside knowledge on barista know-how. M brought in a latte machine making delicious coffee drinks for the Forum.

It doesn't take long to drink through new blends leaving us with our favorite, off the shelf, stand-bys. Our MOST favorite blend, Magnolia Cafe, blended at Trianon Coffee Brewers in Austin, TX begins with a base of Sumatra coffee beans. Procuring Sumatran beans at our local World Market, D has begun blending beans here at home, with some success. He blended 8 O'clock Vanilla Bean with Sumatran beans and produced a wonderfully smooth tasting brew that was well received at the Forum.

A reader suggested another brewer, Prairie Fire Roasters out of Wichita, KS. Prairie Fire offers free samples online and their Peppermint Patty blend was a current Friday brew. As always there have been tasty treats to go along with our coffee tests. Comments from the Forum:

M. in the front office says, "I enjoyed the new coffee today-peppermint patty. It was not so overpowering as I originally thought it would be. It was very smooth. The conversation of new recipes from Emily Bites were very encouraging about great food to make in a healthy way. I loved the Chocolate Banana Oat muffins, fantastic and very low calorie with the wonderful flavor."

M. from the middle office shared, "The lattes were a nice treat. There is something about a cup of coffee brewed just for you that is always a treat….kind of like how a meal always tastes better when someone else fixes it. I have enjoyed all the coffees and I am in awe of your new hobby, blending your own beans. Who knows…maybe someday we’ll be saying 'I knew Sally when they first started blending beans .' You’d be a great barista!"

N. at the north end added, "M’s Lattes – This is an annual event anticipated by all! Although it did not take place during our traditional time, the week between Christmas and New Year’s, they tasted just as good in late January. That’s a bleak time of year anyway, right? MLK Day is nice, but hardly enough to lift us out of January doldrums. Anyway, the lattes were delicious and much appreciated.
Our own blend of Sumatra beans and vanilla bean – Smooth as silk! Well done, D.
My scones – If we can call them 'scones', then they were pretty good. The treats certainly did not have the soft and crumbly texture we associate with true scones. However, they had cherry goodness in every bite, so I guess that counts for something.
New brew from Prairie Fire Roasters – Did not expect to like Peppermint Patty, but I did! Prairie Fire Roasters (does anyone else out there have trouble spelling ‘prairie’?) is a winner so far."

What new recipe, blog, beverage or food have you tried lately?

Pictures from:
cbc.ca
baldart.com.au

SAD: Singles Awareness Day

2012-02-09T21:33:00.000-08:00

"I hate Valentine's Day, it's SAD." Young, single, female, co-worker.

Me, "Don't let it be sad, there are a lot of people that love you, and that you love, to celebrate on that day."

"Not on Singles Awareness Day," replied young, single, male, co-worker.

Understanding the play on words brought a chuckle but the seriousness of both these individuals about their distaste for February 14th was real. That is sad. They are not the first unattached (young or old) people that have expressed the sentiment that Valentine's Day highlights, like a neon sign, their singleness.

"You can't go to a restaurant because everyone there is a couple," she declared.

"It makes it much more apparent that you're single," he agreed.

This message is not for those who are happy with your singleness, your satisfaction of relationship status is to be applauded, but there is a vast majority who feel as these do.

So what are the options?

1. Ignore the day, treat it like every other day.
2. Show your love and appreciation to those who make your life better, i.e. parents, siblings, friends, coworkers, etc.
3. Allow others around you to show their love and appreciation of you.
4. Show your love for humanity by volunteering, i.e. soup kitchen, food bank, visiting an elder care center, animal shelter, etc.

Valentine's Day can be SAD but it can also be an opportunity for you to make it special for someone else. The choice is yours.

Pictures from:
shirtdesigns.spreadshirt.nl
stephie5741.blogspot.com
members.petfinder.org

Your Thread In the Historic Fabric

2012-02-03T18:54:00.000-08:00

Hitting the half century mark leads to some reflection across my personal timeline. At the holidays we made a trip back to the area where I grew up. My small town, like so many, is decreasing in size with the main street businesses closed and buildings falling into their foundations.

Our two room school house held six grades. My 1st and 2nd grade was made up of 8 girls. Our school bus was a red station wagon that made three trips to 'bus' all the kids to school and home. In 3rd grade the district consolidated. The burning question in my young mind, "Where did all these kids come from?" The school will be torn down to make way for a county clinic, the building too old and decayed to bring, economically, up to code.

This church is where I was confirmed, attended vacation bible school for many years and love to attend when we visit my folks. It was never a large congregation but now there are about 24 regular attenders and my parents, in their early 70's, are the youth group.

On a country road between town and my home, is the little Welsh Chapel. My paternal, great-grandmother Mary was the chairman of the Welsh reunion committee in the early 60's. The Welsh community was already dispersed and there were no regular services. My dad and mom remember attending the yearly reunion services at the chapel as young marrieds. The property has reverted back to the originally owners who still maintain the grounds but that, and an occassional burial, is the only activity now.

My life has touched two eras. I've attended a two room school house and watched computers go viral. much like my grandparents traveling in a horse and buggy and watching a man walk on the moon. I attempt to hang on to some of these things, as did my great grandmother, by holding reunions and walking down memory lane yet, as I embrace my past I look eagerly forward to the future and all there is yet to unfold.

What does your historic thread look like?

The Written Word Worth Re-Reading

2012-01-27T19:14:00.000-08:00

I like to read. 1st and 2nd grade report cards noted my voracious reading. I was in junior high when this same teacher told me she'd finally met a student who loved to read as much as I did. Any good story is worth my time and with so many available there are few books that make my save shelf to be re-read again.

Reading many of the book bloggers January appears to be the month to share what's on your reading list. I would like to share the books that have been on my shelf for many years with the pages well thumbed.

Newest favorite book and most recent shelf acquisition came from my son's junior English reading list:

Peace Like a River by Leif Enger, 2002

Favorite buggy & bonnet romance:
Hummingbird by LaVyrle Spencer, 1983

Favorite time travel:
Son of the Morning by Linda Howard, 1997

Favorite Christian romance:
The Princess by Lori Wick, 1999

These books became keepers because of their dialogue, pacing and ability to keep me turning the pages long past my bedtime.

Share the titles of your keepers!

Friday Forum and the Super Bowl

2012-01-20T18:10:00.000-08:00

A frequent visitor knows I'm a Wisconsin native ergo a Green Bay Packer fan. At our Friday Forum it was Pick-A-Packer Friday as we brewed Packer's Perc, from Berres Brothers Roasters in Watertown, WI and I wore my Packer's Super Bowl Champions sweatshirt from 1996. If I'd only had a cheese head!

I talked a lot of smack. Did some early celebrating, confident the Pack was headed to the Superbowl . . . NOT! Let's talk coffee.

We've enjoyed both Highlander Grogg and Packer's Perc from my road trip to Berres Brothers Roasters. Here is what the forum had to say:

E. expressed, “Coffee was delicious as well as N’s cinnamon rolls! I also loved the pepper jelly and cream cheese. Spicy and sweet." E. is moving on to another job opportunity and will be greatly missed. We sure appreciate the contributions E. has made to the Friday Forum.

V. shared these words about the Highlander Grogg blend, "Not a fan of the strong ‘butterscotch’ aroma or flavor. There was a time when it would have made me very happy!"

In my quest to learn all things that make coffee great I came across a cause worth mentioning, Coffee Kids.

"Coffee Kids works with coffee-farming families to improve their lives and livelihoods"

I am a proponent for responsible consuming. I can't enjoy my coffee at the expense of clean water, adequate housing and good education for the coffee growers. Please take a moment to read about this organization. If you love coffee forgo a few cups and help out the Coffee Kids.

Check out this link on the report of the Coffee Kids organization to ensure responsible giving. BBB report on Coffee Kids.

Pictures from:
visalakshiramani.wordpress.com
host.madison.com
ncausa.org

The Art of Making a Good Decision

2012-01-13T17:23:00.000-08:00

A fortune-teller is an exciting idea. How great would it be to have someone tell us our future so we could avoid pitfalls or take full advantage of opportunities?  We would never lament, "If I had only known..."

In all honesty no fortune-teller is necessary to predict your future. You can do a fairly good job yourself. From where you stand today look back at your life. If you are a visual person make a Life-line Timeline based on decisions or events that brought you to the place you are today. Your ability to make 'good' decisions or 'bad' decisions, based on how you rate your current situation, will be evident in your history.

It is always easier to look at someone else.  For an example you likely don't have to look further than your circle of friends. Chances are someone came to mind when you read the title to this blog.  Many of us have at least one person we know, and have watched, make poor decisions. That person you have listened to lament their decisions but who continues in poor decision making with or without your advice. Maybe you are that person.

There is a pattern to decision making that, like a habit, can be difficult to change. Often times lifestyle or home-life feeds a poor decision making process. Identifying and making changes in these areas is the first step.

Most decisions are based on 'feelings', feelings that are immediate but often fleeting. A good decision must look beyond the immediate to the time when that feeling is gone.

Making a good decision is an art.  It is a process that takes thought, planning and self-control. You must develop your own process, personalized to you. This is my process for making good decisions:

1. Pray seeking God's guidance. As a Christian, Christian principles should be my guide. They are the measuring stick I use against my desires and reasons for the choices I make.

2. Seek wise counsel from trusted individuals. There are people in my life who I trust will want the best for me. It is important that I LISTEN to what they have to say as they may not agree with what I'm wanting to do. I want to give their reasoning due consideration.

3. My husband must be in agreement or be supportive of my decision. My husband is my main stay plus any decision I make will affect him and our life. If he is not in agreement or supportive the decision is not a good one.

Like all good artists, once you have put time and practice into your craft it comes quickly and naturally. Bigger decisions require more time and consideration. There are still decisions that are not easy to make but with a process I can be assured it is a good one.

What is your decision making process?

pictures from:

cutcaster.com
entrepreneurexposure.org
vectorstock.com

Dating & Mating #8: In Times of Trouble 2 Step Survival

2012-01-07T18:22:00.000-08:00

Marriage takes work. It requires give and take from both partners. When the marriage vows are taken a conscious decision is made to put the wants, needs and desires of another person, if not in front of your own, at least on the same level.

Stress, anxiety, sadness and turmoil will affect you each differently but you'll want your partner to understand, or at least be sympathetic, to your particular feelings and methods of coping. Your partner will expect the same consideration.

Troubled times will come. In a world full of pitfalls your marriage relationship will stumble into many. Some are shallow, some are deep, some are very deep. Together you will face these troubles with your individual coping methods but will your marriage survive?

There are two activities that, performed regularly, will see you through the toughest of trials.

#1: Keep talking. Do not allow a wall of silence to exist between you. The talk may become heated or loud but keep talking. Generally women are most helped by talking and men are less inclined to share their thoughts and feelings. Keep the channels of communication open and flowing.

#2: Keep loving. Have sex frequently. Do not use sex as a punishment or reward. The loving give and take of your bodies is a right in the marriage contract and should never be withheld or taken for malicious reasons. Loving does not always have to be intercourse. Hold each other, touch one another, kiss for no reason. Men are generally most helped by having regular sex and women are quick to withhold sex in anger or under stress. Keep reaching out to each other and love.

Times of trouble will come, conflicts are unavoidable, but your marriage will survive them and more often grow stronger if these two things never stop.

More survival information: 4 For You, For Men Only, For Women Only

Statements rarely heard by a divorce lawyer:

"We have great sex but I can't stand her."

"He shares everything with me but I can't stand him."

Pictures from:

robedemariage.bloguez.com

androinica.com

dailypictures.info

Friday Forum Takes a Road Trip

2011-12-30T21:43:00.000-08:00

Taking a picture for the blog.

Our Christmas trip to Wisconsin provided a super opportunity for this coffee lover. On a previous Friday Forum it was suggested we try Berres Brothers Coffee Roasters in Watertown, Wisconsin. A quick visit to the website and it would be easy to order their popular Highlander Grogg online but with a northern Christmas planned, and Watertown just down the road, a visit was put on the schedule.

As I was posing in front of the sign, D preparing to take my photo, a couple crossing the parking lot asked, "Are you from out of town?"

I explain I've come all the way from Texas to visit this particular roaster. They offer to take our picture but D declines, explaining the picture is for my coffee blog and he doesn't need to be in it. She answers, "Then you might want this man in your picture because he is the owner." My surprise and delight are evident as I immediately pull Pete Barres into the picture.

Pete Berres Owner

Berres roasting team.

Pete, and his lovely wife Julie, were so gracious to a gushing coffee fan. They invited me onto the roasting floor.

I was introduced to the Berres roasters who explained the roasting process, showed the diffference of the beans pre and post roasting, demonstrated the roaster, which operates in the same fashion as a hot air popcorn machine, and we witnessed their flavoring method.

The selections were endless, I was in a coffee lovers candy land. We left with two packages of Highlander Grogg, an explosion of butterscotch, caramel and hazelnut, fresh from the roaster. Packer Perc, buttery hazelnut with a kick of Irish creme, was the additional choice for a regional flare.

Everyone at Berres Brothers was helpful and friendly. It was wonderful to stand and sniff the wonderful aroma that filled the shop. The sandwich bar was worth the visit as well. Thank you to Pete and Julie Barres and the whole Barres Coffee team for the informational visit, it was so much more than I expected and great fun!

The particular insights of the Forum will follow soon. In the meantime, readers, any other coffee suggestions?

Thankless Jobs Recognized

2011-12-23T20:16:00.000-08:00

The holiday season brings out the Salvation Army bell ringers. Varied souls take on this job for various reasons.

A fellow co-worker and I were stopping at Hobby Lobby this week and he shared with me that one of the most overlooked workers is the bell ringer. It was reported how people ignore them, look past them, avoid them and so he was making a point to recognize these workers by greeting each one he passed.

Being a bell ringer and asking for money from the general public is a thankless job. I will admit to not making eye contact in order to ease the guilt for not putting money in their bucket. C's comments made me rethink my actions. Since that afternoon I've greeted every bell ringer receiving some surprised, but enthusiastic, responses.

This brings to mind another thankless job. Just west of Dickens and east of Crosbyton is a treasure appreciated by many a traveler; a spectacularly clean rest area/restroom.

We make a point of stopping at this well tended rest area because it is SO clean. It is maintained by a company out of TN but I know it is a local individual who is doing an outstanding job.

Cleaning restrooms and picking up after the general public is a thankless job. I want to recognize those in charge of this rest stop.

What thankless jobs would you like to recognize?

Picture from:

zimbio.com

Mid-Week Merriment with the Friday Forum

2011-12-16T21:39:00.000-08:00

The holidays are a time for gathering together, enjoying conversation and making merry. The Friday Forum embraces this attitude all year. When the holidays roll around we double the fun. Wednesday we gathered at my house for a holiday lunch and to share the treasures we stuffed into each other's stockings.

Friday found us back in the office chatting over steaming mugs of fresh ground Sumatran beans, moist chocolate cookies and a tasty snack mix.

Herein are musings from the Forum:

N., on the north end of the hall, not only provided the wonderful chocolate cookies and snack mix we all enjoyed but contributed these thoughts about the Wednesday party:
Favorite moment: Talking about our favorite Christmas movies/shows, even though S. and V. didn’t have one.
Favorite food: dessert – who knew you could put three different kinds of cookie in one ice cream? (Blue Bell Christmas Cookie . . . yum!)
Favorite thing about parties: laughing with friends.

M., on the south end, said:
The Christmas tree, decorated with so many memories of L’s childhood, was an inspiration. Our family tradition has been one new ornament each year, but I now want to incorporate this idea, with that new ornament representing a special memory. I was browsing Pinterest last night and found another inspiration! This year’s ornament is going to be homemade…a clear glass ball filled with sand and sea shells to remind us all of our wonderful family vacation in Virginia Beach! It will be a reminder of how blessed that time together was and keep us smiling until the next time we can all be together again. And, for our precious grandson there just may be a few clear glass balls filled with snowflakes and photos of his far away grandparents loving on him.
E. shared:
I am so blessed to work with such wonderful people. They are always there for me. I look forward to Friday Coffee Break every week. It is so fun to try new recipes and chat and relax for a spell!

M., in the front office, comments on both occasions:
I love the holiday conversations. I learn about so many different traditions that all of us have. I love S.’s Christmas tree which is a walk through her families past. It’s like a huge scrapbook. C.’s family opens one present every hour. How much fun keeping the excitement throughout the whole day! What we did when the kids where home is, between the 7 of them, draw names out of a hat and go to Wal-mart-give each child $20.00 dollars and they shopped for their secret brother or sister's gift. They enjoyed this so much. Plus, this helped me out since I really hate shopping!

Another topic today was personal space issues that come up when we go out to a store or are waiting in line somewhere. C.’s idea of envisioning a hula hoop around you, to mark as your own area to stay in, was fantastic.

Of course the chocolate cookies were fantastic, thank you N. and also getting a new recipe for a party mix from N.’s mom. They were both delicious!

Those of us in the Friday Forum appreciate you stopping by and sharing our fun. Please take a moment and comment on a Christmas favorite for you, your family or your workplace.

Wishing you and your family/office a very Merry Christmas and successful New Year!

Pictures from:
vectorstock.com
askville.amazon.com
graphicssoft.about.com
christmasfor2012.blogspot.com

2011 Resolution: A Review . . . of sorts

2011-12-10T13:19:00.000-08:00

January of 2011 I declared my words for the new year, "Be Not Afraid". With several major family events scheduled I was already feeling anxious. As a child of God I know I should "be not afraid" so I made it my New Year's resolution to seek the peace in those words. How did I do?

Our only child, L., graduates from High School in the spring and leaves for college in the fall. Spring term is grueling as he works to finish up Senior projects and pass tests earning his International Baccalaureate, as well as his high school, diploma. Graduation day was exciting with family traveling in to celebrate.

Summer begins, the economy tanks, unemployment jumps and education funds disappear as the state scrambles to fund a system in distress. Scholarship and loan money we thought would be available are frozen and announced as unlikely to reappear. Completing my M.Ed. in 2005 was part of our plan toward paying for L.'s college. I begin to search for full-time positions in earnest. We sharpen our pencil, tighten our belts and apply for multiple scholarships. L. puts in as many hours as his job will allow.

Money begins flowing to the university with down payments, fees and reservations. Unexpected scholarships come in and we meet all the required obligations. September we pack up and move L. into his dorm. Tuition is paid, books are bought, housing is charged. The first year is covered.

Fall, another school year and empty nest feelings settle in. Lots of job applications, two interviews, no job offer. My part time job is stable, my office mates are supportive and encouraging. My husband and I see a marked reduction in the grocery bill, gas consumption and utilities.

How did I do, not being afraid, in 2011? At each shift that would turn my insides with anxiety I would kneel at my bedside, offer it up to the LORD, ask forgiveness for my weakness and declare, with His help, I would not be afraid.

2012 brings many of the same issues but I have known peace through 2011. We have been steadfast; working, adjusting and tightening our finances and keeping God at the center of our lives. We have met all our obligations and I am not afraid, that we will meet all that are yet to come.

John 14:27 (NIV) "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."
Pictures courtsey of:
theeconomiccollapseblog.com
bookfoolery.blogspot.com
history.hazubu.com
vectorstock.com

Empty Nesting Quilt #3

2011-12-03T20:29:00.000-08:00

#2 Christmas for D.

As of August, when our only son went off to college, I have been channeling my empty nest emotions through a creative outlet, quilting, (more piecing than actual quilting). The first two were t-shirt quilts made from his High School tees and tees from K-8.

This fabric is the outside frame

This third quilt is a Christmas gift for my husband D. and is more traditional. The squares have an applique made from remnants of Christmas fabric originally purchased to make pajamas for L. when he was small.

#1 Christmas, 2001 for L.

Math has always been a bit of a challenge therefore there are plenty of the same scraps allowing for two quilts made from the same Christmas fabric.

For convenience and ease of sewing I generally buy a flat sheet, (queen size for this), as backing but single sheets, outside of a set, are becoming increasingly difficult to find.  This is even more challenging when seeking a particular color. Back to the trusty fabric store, a bit more sewing, an extra touch at the top and the backing is in place.

This quilt took much longer than the T-Shirt quilts and it seemed I was running out of steam.  Perhaps it was time to store the machines, (thank you #1 sister, J. for the serger) until my #2 sister, J., tickled my ears with the idea of the Quilt-As-You-Go method. I like the idea of quilting but realize I don't have the patience for it. This method, aptly demonstrated here, is very intresting and, I've decided, worth a try. Stay tuned for #4.

Thanksgiving Kitchen Triathalon

2011-11-25T19:00:00.000-08:00

My husband, D., is a cook. In his early life he initially wanted to own his own restaurant. He was actively working toward that goal when I was hired to work at the restaurant he was managing. Our relationship works very well as I don't mind cleaning up. I share this to say D. cooks frequently therefore I am well versed in kitchen clean up.

Being a contender in the clean up division I find the Thanksgiving meal to be the triathlon of clean ups. Ours was a quiet celebration with only four in attendance so we had a small menu and made plans to enjoy it at the mid-meal. Turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry relish, rolls and a cherry pie for dessert. Of the seven items listed only two were not pre-prepared. Why, I wondered, were we in the kitchen all day?

The Thanksgiving meal, large or small, appears to require more hours and more kitchen tools to prepare, serve and clean up than any other meal. We put the turkey in the oven at 9:00am and I was not out of the kitchen for more than a 30 minute stretch until the final wipe down was performed (with a Norwex rag) at 3:30pm.

My Thanksgiving table.

I will give that I don't use paper goods. We've eaten on the china since my son came home from elementary school and asked if we had any china. When I said, yes, and wanted to know why he replied, "Cause my teacher said they only use their china when someone dies."

The good thing about Thanksgiving clean up is there are, generally, more hands to make the job go quickly. I had the best time storing left overs, drying and putting away dishes in the midst of setting the kitchen to rights while my son, home from college, stood at the sink, elbow deep in dishwater and continued to wash all I put in the water until we were done. We chatted and laughed and enjoyed each other's company, and the chore was no more.

Example of D.'s artful carving.

It was a wonderful day to enjoy food, family and a day spent together in thankfulness for all our blessings. I pray your Thanksgiving day was as special.

Were you part of the cooking team or the cleaning team at your Thanksgiving feast?

Aging Gracefully: Crossing the Threshold

2011-11-18T18:09:00.000-08:00

Hitting 50 is the bell ringing, flag waving, socially accepted, certified doorway to old age. AARP welcomes you under the confetti of mutliple mailings in anticipation of this momentous occasion. On your 50th birthday you cross the threshold into old.

Since I've turned 50 there has been more than one store clerk ask if I wanted to join their senior's club. On my receipt, just yesterday, the clerk graciously gave me the 15% senior discount, assuming there was no need to ask. Don't get me wrong, I'll take a discount at any age.

I've also noticed that remarks concerning the aging body have my ears perking. I find myself paying closer attention to the indigestion, bloating, acid reflux and Bengay commercials. During some mild discomfort I went to investigate on the Internet and hit a BINGO for menopause symptoms. Hello Old Age!

While at the library recently I held the door for an elderly lady walking with a cane. She said to me, "Oh dear, never get old." "It's too late!" I wanted to cry, "I've turned 50, I'm at the top of the hill sitting in a wagon!" Instead I replied, with a smile, "I don't think I have a choice so I'm trying to do it gracefully."

Therefore, here at the threshold, in addition to the Dating and Mating series, Friday Forum posts, Treasures of the Heart, empty nest chronicles, writing commentaries and thoughts in general it seemed timely to pen my progress on Aging Gracefully.

When I crossed over in August, I started taking Vitamin D along with a Women's daily vitamin and have sought information on what helps ease the symptoms of menopause. I'm a card carrying member of the AARP.

Positive changes already in progress have been to lose weight, truly attempt to exercise more, updating my make-up regime and turning my wardrobe towards a more classic look rather then trendy.

I don't fear age, I fear the problems that come with age. It isn't my goal to be mentioned by Willard Scott as a Smucker's 100 but with more and more mentions of 102+, if I make it I'd like to be ambulatory and continent. With those goals in mind there is no better time to prepare than here at the threshold.

I say "Cheers!" to aging gracefully.

What do you say?

photos courtsey of:

tp4ww.com

menopauserx.com

dailypainters.com

The Holiday Season Begins with Coffee and the Friday Forum

2011-11-11T12:31:00.000-08:00

Each week, in our small office, the Friday Forum meets to enjoy a speciality coffee and tasty treats. Often we give our opinions on new food products. You can find our previous blogs here.

With so many holiday flavored creamers available it is hard to decide which ones to taste. Coffee Mate is a front runner with multiple varieties. We have tried: Warm Sugar Cookie, Gingerbread, Eggnog, Peppermint Mocha, Pumpkin Spice.

Flavored coffees were put aside but we did not forsake good coffee blends. Starbucks Kenyan blend, Pete's Arriba coffee beans and an office favorite, Magnolia blend from Trianon Coffee in Austin, have been brewed.

Two Snyder pretzels varieties, our test products, were evaluated: York Peppermint Chocolate Pretzel Sandwich, and Milk Chocolate Pretzel Dips. On this November Friday E. also provided a lovely spread of Philadelphia cream cheese and crackers, pumpkin muffins, and fruit.

M. out front, who provided our pretzel samples, said, "The cream cheese spread had a great blend of veggies that complement any cracker. We also enjoyed the Snyder’s pretzels dipped in Hershey’s chocolate and the York Peppermint pretzel was the hit of the day. I think everyone enjoyed it the most."

N. gives these reviews:
"coffee – delicious!
Sugar Cookie Creamer – delicious!
Gingerbread Creamer – pretty good, not as good as sugar cookie.
Snyder’s peppermint chocolate pretzels – so good! It’s like a Thin Mint Girl Scout Cookie
Snyder’s Hershey’s chocolate pretzels – very yummy and potentially addictive
Thanks to E. for the lovely and tasty spread of cookies, muffins, fruit, crackers, and cream cheese spread! She gets an A+ for both presentation and taste."

This Friday C. provided great kolaches and donuts from Daylight Donuts along with a wonderful Amish coffee cake made by E., our own in-house pastry chef.

M., out front, had these thoughts, "I absolutely loved the magnolia blend coffee. I also put in the warm sugar cookie creamer and it tasted even better. The warm kolaches were fantastic as well as our conversations of family and face book irritations!"

M. agreed, "Coffee was delish as usual and we never seem to lack a tasty treat, but I am sure it is the conversation and gathering that makes everything even better."

Here's hoping your office is a warm and friendly place to celebrate and enjoy the holidays. From our office to you: Season's Greetings!

Pictures courtsey of:

wallpaperbordersrus.com

himfr.com

digiwebstudio.com

Dating & Mating #8: Mirror, Mirror On the Wall

2011-11-04T09:18:00.000-07:00

No matter how much it is said, "Don't judge a book by its cover" it will be. We judge most things, initially, by how they appear. Knowing this it makes sense to encourage everyone to look their best but a quick glance around and it is apparent that that advice falls on deaf ears.

All kinds of good advice here: DM#7, DM#6, DM#1-5

Today I want to talk about hair; a point of contention for many and a page one issue when dealing with our 'look'. It is safe to say most people like what they don't have, i.e. thick hair wants sleek (not considering sleek is usually thin and/or oily), thin hair wants thick (dry, heavy, unmanageable) straight wants curly (kinky, unruly, frizzy) and so on.

I, like so many, am on a continual quest to find that perfect hairstyle. That one that fits the shape of my face (heart, oval, square) along with the right products (de-frizz, conditioner, mousse, gel, Clairol) to make my thick and wavy, dishwater blond, mop to look good.

Without the right products on a windy,
humid day my hair is unruly:

Tightening up the waves was
an idea, but even in the 70's
it wasn't the look for me.

Technology allows us to obtain the opposite of what we have.
With the help of a straightening iron I reached sleek and straight.
When your family is used to one way . . . not!

Today, 50 years in with the same hair, I return to the salon hoping the beautician (now there's an old word), may have the skill to produce exactly what I think I want, to look my best.

What I need to do is accept that my hair is a reflection of my personality and/or my feelings at any given point in my life, or moment in the day. Because it is so easily changed let us join together in solidarity and not try to find that perfect style but rather embrace our hair type and what it has to say about us.

If we are to be judged, let us be judged truly.

Arriving at the Middle

2011-10-28T20:48:00.000-07:00

Driving home from the library I noticed a family walking. The man was holding the hand of a small girl about 6 years old, followed by his pregnant wife. I smiled because it was a nice picture. My first thought was, "I'm glad I'm past that." My second thought, "I have arrived at middle."

Lately, when out, D. and I seem to notice small children. They make us smile and generally illicit a memory of when L. was that age. It is no surprise that these thoughts are prevalent here at the beginning of our empty nest. We have launched our child but have yet to enjoy the pleasures of grandchildren. We are at the middle. We have JUST arrived so we still have the steady dating, engagement, wedding and grandchildren stations to go through yet. (Hopefully in that order.)

Grandchildren are joyfully anticipated but I honestly don't want to rush the process. In the meantime D. and I have a lot to offer in our jobs, friendships and ministries as we adjust to the extra time we have to give.

There is a feeling of freedom being on the older, wiser end of the line. Friendships with younger women are exciting as they share their energy and their familiar situations. It is satisfying being able to offer comfort and advice because we've been there. It's freeing to look back down the road and see what hurdles were jumped, what pitfalls were missed and helping along those who are making the same journey.

We've arrived at the middle. I greatly enjoyed the stations getting here and I'm looking forward to what's ahead. What are your thoughts about the station in life where you currently find yourself?

Pictures from:
joyofpropaganda.wordpress.com
ifeelretro.com
zazzle.com

Quilting Through the Elementary Years

2011-10-14T12:55:00.000-07:00

I'm moving right along on my quilting spree. This is the third tee shirt quilt and likely the last (I have no other tee shirts to use!)

The first was for practice. It was the Family Reunion Quilt which followed a traditional pattern. For the high school tee shirts I used my serger with school colors. That was my favorite method of the three. On this current quilt I used L's elementary through 8th grade tee shirts.

This pattern is called a "Rag Quilt" where the complete square is assembled and then attached leaving the edges to fray. It is always difficult to find the one fabric that will tie so many different colors together but the plaid flannel did the trick. The front are tees from first through fifth grade and the back are from junior high.

With L. away at college the back bedroom has been transformed from an office into a sewing room. I've bought quilting and embroidery needles and pulled out all the fabric tucked into tubs, bags and back closet corners.

The internet is a fabulous resource, I've read enough about applique, and have plenty of Christmas fabric scraps, to begin the next project. It will be interesting to see when all this energy begins to wan but at the moment it's full steam ahead.

Lovin' the Library

2011-10-07T13:04:00.000-07:00

I LOVE the public library system. Whoever was instrumental in creating public libraries should be sainted, knighted, crowned, celebrated! The free, sharing of information and the written word is surely ONE of the elements that make for a civilized, peaceful society.

Although the concept of the public library is fantastic, there are levels of "wonderfulness" at each facility. I have lived in many different cities and experienced a variable sliding scale of public library competencies.

One of the smaller city libraries, in south eastern Arizona with a population of approximately 30,000, had a top-notch facility. They had only one building that was clean and welcoming, the book selection was current, up-to-date and available.

My parents live outside a tiny town that boasts the thriving Mill Pond Library. With the help of their Friends they moved from 900 square feet into a donated grocery store space, outfitted it with computers and DVDs and expanded their new titles in order to better service a rural area of eager readers. The fund raising efforts of this librarian and community are incredibly impressive and inspiring.

It is understandable, in our time, that government funds to libraries run shallow and that many are great because of the dedicated librarians and community benefactors that make up their Friends of the Library.

Knowing a public library can run well, even in tight times, brings discouragement when a large city public library appears to be lacking in resources.

The answer to this stringency is another spectacular idea and boon to those smaller facilities that do not benefit from an active Friends group. The inter-library loan system. My sister in Michigan has used her inter-library loan system with great regularity so I find it odd that it took me so long to sign up and get on-board. I became so disgusted with our public library and their lack of titles and hodge podge handling of series that my reading had fallen off to a great degree. It wasn't until, while reading some of the review blogs, I once again searched for a particular title, was backing out of the library catalogue search engine and noticed the inter-library loan icon.

Inter-library loan sign up, search and request procedures were all exceptionally easy. The books arrived within a week. There are some stiff requirements about returning materials which are completely understandable and easy to comply with. I'm back on the library loan-trail and finding all the titles I search for.

When you have the opportunity I encourage you to be a Friend to your library. Buy what they are selling to raise funds; a brick, a calendar, cookies, holiday ornaments, a cook-book. Let your local library be a beneficiary of your designated, charitable funds.

If you love your library, give it a shout-out in the comments.

pictures courtsey of:
sunpack.com
heritage.wisconsinlibraries.org
melissacwalker.com

A September Friday With the Forum

2011-09-30T18:50:00.000-07:00

The office has been meeting on Friday's, enjoying speciality coffees for over a year. In June we developed the Forum, choosing the mission of taste testing new products. Our Friday Forum posts have been among the most visited. In the past week there have been a slew of visitors, from Europe, across all the Friday posts. We welcome anyone who enjoys a fun group, drinking beverages or eating to join us in our mission. Leave a comment for us to share on Friday.

Coffee: It's a Group Thing

It's Friday: Sip, Nibble, Enjoy

Our 18 Cents from the Friday Forum

Taste of Texas Brewing: It Must be Friday

Friday Forum Catch Up

Here's what we've been tasting and thinking.

We worked through the H.E.B. Cafe Ole coffees I purchased on my last trip to Austin. We finished with Texas Pecan, which M., in the middle, declared was her favorite of the bunch. There are a couple more varieties left to try and I will be in Austin soon to make those purchases.

With the Texas Pecan V. provided three new varieties of Snyder and Rolled Gold pretzels. Several of us agreed with V. who weighed in with this comment, "SNYDER’s Pumpernickel and Onion Pretzels should be provided by the state as a nutritional staple!" We all wrinkled our nose at the sound of this flavor but it proved to be down right tasty.

Today's coffee has been a standard but N added, "If I were Consumer Reports, I would rank today’s Eight O’ Clock Vanilla Bean coffee as a ‘best buy’. Really smooth and delicious – no flavored creamer needed to have a great vanilla taste!"

M., out front, thought, "The coffee today was Vanilla Bean and was fantastic! Went down smooth. We nibbled on candy corn, granola and kolache’. I had never heard of kolache until we moved to Texas so I naturally thought it was a Texan thing, however I was incorrect. I googled it and found out that it originated from the Czech region. Either way, I ate one too many and they were delicious."

E was in agreement, "The kolache's were tasty! I loved the bread, warm and chewy!"

If you have a favorite treat, snack or coffee let us know, we'd like to give it a try.
Here's hoping your Friday was a tasty one.

Kolache

Pictures from:

officemuseum.com
1europe.eu
alwayshungryny.com

Treasures of the Heart #3

2011-09-24T14:03:00.000-07:00

We are five weeks into the empty nest. The Empty Nest Syndrome (ENS) has taken shape, for me, in quilting. I've finished one, will finish another this weekend and have bought new tools to work on another.

My Treasures of the Heart originated through Luke 2:51; #1 and #2 explains.

Entry: 4/21/2005
Cleaning up papers brought home from 3rd quarter projects of 6th grade. There was a blue construction paper star with TRUTH on one side and LIES on the other. It says this:

Lies, the dark moldy infestation of Earth

They look like peacefulness of a hidden trap

They smell like the sour-sweetness of something rotting

It feels like the wet, slick feel of a leech

It tastes like old peanuts

It sounds like a scream

Truth, the bright, warm thing that cures the infestation

It looks like a bright star in the middle of the night

It smells like spring

It feels like a warm blanket

It tastes like moist chocolate brownies

It sounds like people cheering

L. is doing very well at school. D and I are keeping each other entertained but we'll have a nice set of quilts before the ENS subsides.

Pictures found at:

southshorewoman.com

clipartof.com

jayguin.wordpress.com

High School T-Shirt Quilt Complete!

2011-09-16T12:39:00.000-07:00

Alright. I'm raising my right hand, bending at the elbow and patting myself on the back. L. is about to start his fourth week of college and I have completed the quilt made out of his high school t-shirts.

Last November I made a quilt out of family reunion t-shirts to test out a serger my sister gave me. My saying holds; "Have Serger will travel."

The pattern was modified as L. had so many t-shirts that I was able to piece both sides. A summer weight blanket was used as the batting, cutting it into squares and assembling a completed panel. A gold thread was used on the top stitch (high school colors were black and gold) to show on the serger side. 15 panels on each side made for the perfect dorm bed size.

N. (a member of the Friday Forum) suggested that I use old jeans for the edging because what says teenager more accurately than jeans and t-shirts? It took three pair of jeans to complete this edge.

There remains a stack of t-shirts from elementary through junior high waiting to become the next project. The serger worked very well but with the batting and four sheets of fabric I was trying to put a bit more under the serger foot than it was designed for. I'm going for a brighter and larger quilt on this next one and have found a Rag Quilt design that should fit the bill.

The final touch is in the lower left hand corner on the serger side. Placing a kiss, including a prayer and adding a tag that says it all:

Dating & Mating #7: Leave the Excess Baggage

2011-09-09T13:14:00.000-07:00

We all carry emotional baggage. The journey through childhood cannot be made without bags and adult life is a series of picking up extras. When starting a new relationship the healthiest thing you can do for yourself, and the future of a new relationship, is to shed excess baggage. If you cannot shed it then claim it, up front. Be honest and forthright and explain to your new #1 what it is you are hauling around.

Excess baggage is most often packed with unmet expectations and unresolved anger brought on by thoughtless behavior and bad decisions; either our own or someone elses. Some bags are much larger than others but all of them are heavy and all of them, unless sat down, will adversely affect a relationship. Long term dating will eventually reveal excess baggage initially detectable through red flags.

Men and women carry their baggage differently.

Women are generally more open and free with their emotions. They expect friends, male and female alike, to be able to read their expressions and non-verbal signals accurately. They are more willing to take, and abuse, prescribed medications. Women will quietly and slowly allow their anger to turn into bitterness.

Men are much less likely to share their emotions and use a brooding silence as their primary, non-verbal signal. In order to carry the heavy baggage men tend towards self-medication with alcohol, drugs and irresponsible sex. Anger is expressed in outbursts that can be violent and destructive.

Few want to introduce their excess baggage because we THINK it will be a deal breaker. If they know they won't like me. If your baggage is a deal breaker your partner has a right to know before entering a committed relationship. You are wrong to withhold information and you lose trust if they find out from anyone else but you.

You have only your baggage to lose.

Excess baggage should be resolved for your own good but especially for the good of ALL your relationships. Help begins by asking for it. Start with this book: Making Love Last Forever and then begin a study on the concept of forgiveness.

pictures from:cutcaster.com
gocamcartoons.com
usmarkerboard.com

Friday Forum Catch Up

2011-09-01T19:42:00.000-07:00

Several Fridays have passed, time to catch up on our product endorsement and coffee recommendations. I made the trip to Austin recently and planned a stop at H.E.B. grocers to pick up A Taste of Houston, A Taste of San Antonio (this is a favorite) and Texas Pecan, all from the H.E.B. Cafe 'Ole coffee brand. While in Austin we ate at the Magnolia Cafe and their coffee was so exceptional we made the trip across town to the supplier, Trianon Coffee, and purchased a pound of their Magnolia blend to share with the Friday Forum.

On the coffee front our Forum received approval to purchase a new brewing system which was installed and has made all the difference in brewed coffee flavor. It is important that your coffee brews at the correct temperature, with good water, into a clean pot. Thanks to those in charge for bringing the office coffee brewing system up to speed.

V. has been steadfast in providing yummy new samples to try and the Forum has spoken.

N. says: Keebler Wheatables Nut Crisps Crunchy Cashew Crackers (that’s a mouthful of a name!)
These are delicious – perfect for when you come home from work a bit hungry and dinner is still 2 hours away. We’ve bought 3 boxes since trying.
Popcorn Indiana Kettlecorn Sugar and Cinnamon – light, crunchy, tasty; would be great for a party
World Table Dutch Caramel Cookies – I was massively unimpressed with these dry, slightly unpleasant tasting cookies.

C. remarked on the Kettlecorn: Yummy!! How many calories?

E. declares: “Love the kettlecorn! It is light and not too sweet. Perfect balance of sugar and cinnamon.” Along with M.M.: The popcorn was surprisingly good. Very rarely do I like to eat it but I actually enjoyed it!

And V. herself thought:

BLUE BUNNY Red Velvet Ice Cream … best specialty cake ‘infused’ ice cream out there. And despite the fact that Ben and Jerry’s (premium ice cream compared to Blue Bunny) also has a limited edition of Red Velvet Cake ice cream out right now, they don’t hold a candle to the Duff Goldman ‘Ace of Cakes’ inspired BLUE BUNNY version!

Ritz Brown Sugar and Cinnamon … not sweet enough to stave off an attack of the ‘I need something sweet, and now’ moments. Very lightly sugared, and I couldn’t find anything to top one with that did anything for me …. Seems more suited to the recipes on the back of the box.

World Trade Dutch caramel cookies … look thin and VERY sweet, but not so. Really nice with my Saturday morning coffee.

Cinnamon; Sugar Kettlecorn by Popcorn Indiana … although you expect it to be kettle corn sweet, it’s not!! First thing you notice is obviously the light sweet taste and cinnamon, but you are also able to taste a hint of butter/salt in the background … it’s a beautiful thing!!

M added: The kettlecorn was light and satisfying…and nice that it is already popped. Convenient and satisfying.
Red velvet ice cream was yummylicious and would be dangerous to have in my fridge.

Here's hoping your Friday's are a pleasant experience.

Photo from:
bs-opinions.blogspot.com
iwanttobakefree.blogspot.com

I'm 50 Years Old!

2011-08-26T10:06:00.000-07:00

This Sunday, August 28th, I will turn 50 years old.

In my mind I look only 42 but age is in the eye of the beholder. This was made abundantly clear as the clerk at the clothing store asked if I would like to join their Tuesday Club for those 55 years and older.

I am not dismayed as I've always been one to embrace my age, a true believer that this is the first day of the rest of my life.

It has been a great day here in the office where my peeps (of the Friday Forum) have gone above and beyond to help me celebrate this milestone. A big THANK YOU for your love, friendship and appreciation of my goofy-ness!

Thanks to cousin Jenny for posting this video several months back. I copied it over to save for today because this is EXACTLY how I feel.

Happy Birthday to anyone who shares this day, may you be as blessed as I am.

Pictures from:

updatesfromthefield.wordpress.com

derwent6.blogspot.com

I Am Not the First Nor Will I Be the Last

2011-08-21T20:54:00.000-07:00

Your unique insight into a common experience makes that experience a one and only, personal high/low, emotional tornado that you alone live through . . . along with everyone else.

D. and I joined thousands of other parents as we moved our student into his new home, in the dorm, for the next school year . . ., nine months . . ., six hours . . , away.

Although my anticipation for the weekend was one of dread the move-in went very smoothly. The staff at the dorm facility was well versed, well organized and well placed throughout the building to move the dolly's, boxes and bodies along. This was not their first rodeo.

The area meant to accommodate two, full grown, young men and their; computers, multiple screens, guitars, speakers, clothes, electronics and personal items is small but adequate. Math classes were put to the test as measurements were taken, schematics were drawn and redrawn, furniture moved and moved again. The final configuration given approval by both parties, beds made, computers set up and clothes hung. Home sweet home.

One more meal together, pictures taken and a final hug that has to last me until Parent's Weekend.

There's nothing left but to represent.

Pictures by:
collegebedlofts.com
blog.manhattanministorage.com
desitub.com

Bring On the Rain

2011-08-12T15:30:00.000-07:00

We have been in drought conditions for the summer here in the Panhandle of Texas. I know many others have also been suffering under the extreme heat. Our backyard looks distressed from it's lovely condition when I posted a Spring Teaser.

Tonight we FINALLY got some rain and that is worth sharing. Praying the weather where you are is what you need.

Messages

2011-08-06T13:55:00.000-07:00

I love words; reading them and writing them, molding them to pass information or to be funny or to convey the wonder of a moment. I love using words to share wisdom, spread joy or cause a smile.

I also love reading the creative use of words others have crafted including, but not limited to; greeting cards, novels, articles, jokes, a text or a tweet. I especially love the creativity of personal notes that string together common alphabetic characters resulting in wordsmith magic.

Receiving a personal note in the mail is a true treasure. Mailing a personal letter is now considered using 'snail mail' and is fast becoming obsolete, being usurped by e-mail. I am of an age to have mailed many messages and received enough to have a collection of envelopes with stamps. I believe that now, a stamped letter in the box creates it's own bit of magic.

Texting and tweeting is the current mode of word transportation. The popularity of these electronic messaging systems has opened up the world of wordsmithing in under 50 characters. I love texting and embrace it wholeheartedly but that does not diminish my appreciation for the short, but oh so poignant, message found on the floral card.

What adults heart does not melt at the receipt of a home-made sentiment from a child?

Recently my son graduated from high school and he received many messages in the time honored manner of Graduation Cards. Friends and relatives penned kind and encouraging words about this milestone in his life. Giving cards provides the opportunity to pen a message with particular elegance or meaning. Uncle R. penned a thoughtful expression that is timeless and appropriate, not only for L, but for us all.

"Always remember your high calling; love God, love others and find a way in your education process to serve the world."

Have you received, or possibly penned, a particularly elegant and meaningful message you can share?

pictures from:
faithwriters.com
mailboxess.com
biojobblog.com

Dating and Mating #6: Red Flags & Deal Breakers

2011-07-29T12:22:00.000-07:00

The beginning of a relationship is full of flushed and positive emotions. It is almost scary the wonder we can feel towards someone else. Our new found #1 seems to have nothing that we don't like or won't put up with. In the standard dating game these feelings eventually begin to subside and the reality of this new person becomes clearer.

Red Flag - If in a month of steady dating your friends start to question some behaviors of your new #1 and you find yourself annoyed with them or begin to isolate yourself from them, you need to look inward as there may be an unhealthy reason you are willing to ignore negative tendencies. This is especially true of individuals who connect with, and stay in, abusive relationships.

Everyone has positive and negative behaviors, even you. You will NEVER find someone that does not, or will not, annoy you with what they do, think or how they act. You will at some time annoy them too. This is fact. What becomes important is watching for Red Flag behaviors; can you live with them or will those Red Flags become a Deal Breaker.

Red Flags are those bothersome behaviors that you don't do or are not used to. They are generally considered small annoyances but once in a committed relationship where the BIG differences of finances and child rearing must be addressed, it will be the small annoyances such as; toilet paper, over or under, toothpaste, squeeze or roll up, clothes hamper or corner of the room, shoe rack or in the hall. These small things will be the straw that breaks the relationship-camel's back.

Deal Breakers are subjects that need to be addressed BEFORE you commit to a relationship. Young relationships tend to avoid these hard topics because disagreement is likely and no one wants an argument. You do yourself, as well as your potential partner, a disservice by not discussing issues most important to you. Important topics such as; how many children, child rearing practices, who's career is primary, moving, religious views, commitments to aging parents.

Close friends and family members see your relationship from a different perspective. Listen, and hear, what they are saying. Try to see what they see. A Red Flag may illuminate a Deal Breaker that can save both of you precious time and heartache.

If you are already in a committed relationship and having difficulty keep in mind selfishness is what causes and perpetuates many of these issues. Forgiveness is the only sure way of finding lasting happiness.

These books are a good investment for everybody. Making Love Last and Please Understand Me.

pictures from:
themanifesto.ca
s610.photobucket.com
printactivities.com

It's Friday: Sip, Nibble, Enjoy

2011-07-22T09:58:00.000-07:00

We've experienced some good coffee/food moments in our recent Friday Forums. Green Mountain Coffee has both a Coconut and a Blueberry blend, each with a fine hint of flavor enjoyed by all. We've received another coffee suggestion: Berres Brothers Coffee out of Watertown WI. Their Highlander Grogg blend is on our list to try.

The new food products included Mini Reese's Cups, Hershey's Cookies and Creme Drops, Chocolate Marshmallow Bites, Blueberry Newtons, Wrigley's 5 Watermelon Gum and two different types of fiber bars.

There wasn't any item that got rejected. M. offered that the marshmallow bites didn't satisfy the chocolate craving although she came back later and rescinded that opinion. In the middle of the afternoon those Marshmallow Bites really hit the spot.

On the 'new products' list I want to recommend the Norwex enviro-cleaning towel. They have an environmental cleaning cloth and polishing cloth that is a Clean Queen's dream. Using only the damp cleaning cloth, which has silver for anti-bacterial cleaning, it tackles hard water, grease and built up dirt. The polishing cloth leaves a streak free shine that is exceptional.

My fellow Clean Queen sister-in-law K. tried to tell me but honestly these are pricey for cleaning towels. She finally put one in my hand and I was an immediate convert. If you are a cleaner (you know who you are) spend the $30 for the basic package of cleaning + polishing towels and you won't be disappointed.

What have you tried recently that is worth mentioning?

pictures from:
thefriendshipblog.com
healthy-home-cleaning.com

Dating & Mating #5: Don't Be Sold on the Packaging

2011-07-15T16:38:00.000-07:00

Dating and Mating was a series I began in 2009. The first four continue to get hits plus my son is heading to college so this information seems timely, and prudent.

To catch up: #1 Research and Development, #2 Judging a Book by It's Cover, #3 Unequal Yolking Equals a Rough Journey, and #4 Keeping Relationships Alive.

Have you heard, or said, any of these statements? "Just a pretty face.", "All hat and no cattle.", "They aren't that good looking but they're really nice.", "A plain Jane." "Nice lookin' but there's not much under the hood." Have you later gotten to know someone better and thought they were more intelligent and often better looking?

Most often when single, people can be more concisous of their appearance (see #3) and generally attempt to put their best foot forward. This is a good thing, it's just not the ONLY thing.

My son made the observation, now that school is out, that without a central gathering place it is more difficult to get to know someone. School offers a consistent meeting place with classes and regular lunch dates. The workplace serves the same purpose. Here we see the same people everyday, get to know each other and subsequently form attachments.

I want to address relationship pitfalls especially prevelant among the young and unattached. Many people leave high school anticipating, and hoping, to find their life partner during the "college" years. Fresh out of high school there is the idea of no pressure, no hurry, attached to a willingness and desire to test drive. Pretty packaging, of both sexes, takes precedence in the choosing.

BE AWARE, many a regrettable experience began on good looks and little conversation. Hormones and flushed feelings are allowed to drive us into situations that should have more consideration and communication. Selfishness is generally to blame; so how do we stop a bad relationship from beginning?

Show some respect for yourself and for others. Show some restraint. Don't grab, buy, take or touch things because they look tasty, pretty or free. You are the master of your fate, the captain of your soul. Take care.

photos from:

anguishedrepose.wordpress.com

thedatingrulebook.com

flickr.com

Taste of Texas Brewing. It Must be Friday

2011-07-08T12:55:00.000-07:00

A shout out to our friend R. over at W. for suggesting A Taste of Texas San Antonio blend coffee. It is a house blend for H.E.B. from their Taste of Texas line. We had a bit of a problem as H.E.B. has no location here, but we were not dismayed. C. was in San Antonio for a convention and came home with the goods. THUMBS UP all around for this festive grind.

The tasty treats were in abundance as N. baked up delicious muffins accompanied by summer fresh strawberries. V. did not disappoint on the new product front. Cremesicle Oreos and Special K Crisps. The Special K Crisps were approved by everyone. The Oreos didn't seem to have much orange flavor, a big NO from M. but V. thought the taste might have been lost in the coffee and liked them much better later in the afternoon.

The Taste of Texas opens a whole new world of coffee for our Friday Forum. Is there something you think we should try?

Pictures by:

hebshopping .com

pogocheats.net

sportslinkup.com

Exercise Much?

2011-07-01T15:02:00.000-07:00

Our pastor spoke recently from Matthew 14 concerning Peter and his cry for help on the water. The point of his sermon was, as disciples of Christ our faith is always in place and times of distress are the opportunities we have to exercise it.

This message hit close to home being in line with my 2011 words to live by: Be Not Afraid. At the start of the new year I declared these to by my words for 2011. In January the calendar already had three big events, not to mention the family shift of graduation and eventually starting college.

In the past six months, like most Christians, I have had to exercise my faith over and over. In each instance I have sought God and claimed I would not be afraid of what I did not know or could not control. Assessing these stressful situations from an internal point of view I believe I have managed most events in a calm and peaceful manner, experiencing much more enjoyment than anticipated through the pre-planning.

Spiritual maturity is often so incremental we don't notice until we have sufficient hindsight, much less expect notice from our general public. Conscious exercise to "be not afraid" in situations that I would naturally mull and worry over has allowed me to reduce my worry and concerns and in some cases letting them go. This is evidence my faith is deepening.

Like all change, this doesn't happen without conscious discipline and exercise. If you are an agent of the kingdom your faith is all ready with you. The strength of that faith is yours to exercise daily with Bible study and prayer. Join me in these exercises, do not be afraid.

Pictures from:
wallpaper4god.com
rpmministries.org
canadaroses.com

Our 18 Cents, from the Friday Forum

2011-06-24T14:04:00.000-07:00

It's been a Goldfish kind of coffee Friday. Pepperidge Farms Goldfish have so many new varieties we took two Fridays to try them out. The first round went to: S'Mores, Vanilla Cupcake and Xtra Chocolaty. The combined consensus of the Friday Forum: the S'Mores were novel enough to try but wouldn't get a second purchase. The Vanilla was very similar to vanilla wafers and not unique enough to buy again. Xtra Chocolaty, always a favorite and a definite "buy again" product.

The second round of Goldfish included: Xtra Cheesy Pizza and Mix-Up Adventures. Cheesy Pizza got mixed reviews. My personal was, yuck. The mix-up was a pretzel/cheese mix which was roundly appealing.

We also threw Wrigley’s 5 React 2 gum into the mix. N's opinion: no, don’t like the texture. I didn't like the flavor or the black licorice look. Others in the group found it mildly pleasing.

Thanks again to V., our own mystery shopper, for scouting out and providing the new products.

We received a coffee suggestion and will brew a pot for next Friday, stay tuned for reviews.

Is there a product you like and think we should try?

pictures from:

123rf.com

tumblr.com

Happy Father's Day

2011-06-18T21:43:00.000-07:00

I think the world of my Dad. He has been a wonderful father throughout my childhood and adulthood. I love him so much and wish him all the best, always. That being said I want to pay homage on this Father's Day to my husband.

D. and I have been married 31 years waiting 12 years to welcome our only son into our lives. L. is now 18 and heading off to college.

In a world where marriages so frequently fall apart and children are left to struggle, most often without a father, D. has been a solid rock, a firm foundation in an uncertain world. He is a strong example of a Godly man shouldering the responsibility of the family he helped to create.

I have watched him nurture, advise, scold, comfort and give tough love to help L. grow into the upright, responsible young man that he is. I love and respect him so much for being an active and involved part of L.'s life.

I thank God for D. and for all the other father's who take their role seriously enough to see that their children's lives are full, healthy and happy.

God bless you all.

Pictures from:

tiptoptens.com

justclipart.org

W00T! My First Blogger Award

2011-06-15T21:11:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Barb over at God Whispers in My Ear for passing the Versatile Blogger Award on to me.

7 things about me:

1. I love to bake but cook only out of necessity.

2.  Grocery shopping is my least favorite domestic chore.
3. My favorite domestic chore is laundry.
4. I love to work in the yard and be outside.
5.  I am a fan of Sonic Drive-in.
6.  I welcome birthdays.
7.  Life long learning is a must.

7 worthy bloggers to pass this award to include, but are not limited to:

Terri over at Terri Tiffany Inspirational Writer
Abby over at my MARFAlous Life
Katina over at Rae of Light
Suzanne over at Window on the Prairie
Donna over at Donna's Book Pub
Loren over at Wright's Party of Three
Peggy over at Musings of Meggie

Coffee: It's a Group Thing

2011-06-13T19:16:00.000-07:00

I work in a medium sized office where the support staff gathers each Friday at 10:00am for coffee, food and conversation. In the work world you could call it Team Building, in the neighborhood you would call it a Coffee Klatch. We brew a speciality coffee, share a tasty treat and enjoy the company of coworkers.

This particular Friday we were enjoying Starbucks Christmas blend along with homemade blueberry scones, baked by N, when V. came out of her office with a delightful display of chocolate candies. She noticed that Hershey's had two new candies available, Drops and Air Delight Bars. V. was interested but didn't want to consume all those calories herself so she split up the pieces for us all to try.

To heighten our participation V. made cards with the nutritional information of each item so we could make informed decisions. (We're nothing if not a health conscious crowd.)

Within all the conversation we thought it would add another element to our Friday mornings to bring new products to share, discuss and give a thumbs up or down. We've decided to give it a try and I'll share the products and our thoughts as they arrive or give the group a guest post option to share their thoughts.

Coffee is a Friday staple, is there a speciality blend that you would recommend?

Graduation Day 2011

2011-06-03T19:53:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday, with Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, Grandpas and Grandmas present, D. and I watched our one and only walk across the stage to receive his High School diploma. Ours is a motivated boy with accolades, certificates, awards and pinnings to receive, accept and attend. The weekend was full of ceremony and celebration.

We were caught up in a whirlwind with little time to fully absorb the importance of the moment. In a blink the cake was crumbs, the family gone, the house returned to rights and our summer schedule in full swing.

High School graduations are a wonderful capstone to academic achievement and childhood, launching our children toward adulthood, located but a summer away.

I look forward to the upcoming college years but I will treasure the 12 school years that culminated in celebration this past weekend. I will place those memories along side the other treasures in my heart, to revisit and savor in the quiet moments. Luke 2:51

Congratulations L!

picture from zazzle.com

the girl who stopped swimming - A Review, of sorts

2011-05-29T20:23:00.000-07:00

I tripped across Joshilyn Jackson's website through links on other blogs. There was a contest for her newest release, which I entered, but it was her dialogue in her blog post that had me out that afternoon getting an older story (2008) to see what she was about.

I like to review books I read in the context of the current christian publication market versus a standard type review. So no one goes away wondering, I enjoyed the book enough to get another of Joshilyn Jackson's books with the intent of catching up to her newest release; Backseat Saints.

Reviews: The Priest's Graveyard, The Last Templar and Angel Sister.

the girl who stopped swimming is not Christian fiction but there is a point I would like to make. The main character, Laurel Hawthorne, is dealing with many issues, not the least being she sees the ghost of murdered people she knows. The crux of her problems stem from troubled relationships which Ms. Jackson writes well and resovles in a believeable manner. There was no faith theme running through this story. There could have been. There were many places I thought, 'If Laurel had a basis of faith I would appreciate her struggle in a personal way.' From a Christian perspective I would have enjoyed this story with the ghosts, Ouji board, sexual deviation and all, more, with a faith theme running through it.

Would this story sell, as is, wrapped within a faith theme? Herein lies the conundrum.

An interesting connection, this book was published by a division of Hatchett Book Group, the publishing company that recently announced they were launching a new imprint, Jericho Books, to "seek new, innovative authors who reflect a growing change in the church. These non-traditional voices will appeal to the fresh perspectives in today’s culture and provide an avenue for those exploring political and social issues as they relate to faith."

I'll be watching for the first book under the new Jericho Books imprint to see what Hatchett Book Group considers innovative, non-traditional and fresh issues of faith. I'm hoping to see courage to publish stories with issues that Christian markets have traditionally been afraid to explore and innovation in their marketing to connect the Group 2 segment of the reading market to the books they've been looking for.

photos:
hatchett book group
lci.typepad.com

"I Can't Believe You Said That!"

2011-05-20T19:38:00.000-07:00

The Today show generally gets my thoughts and opinions perking but these musings were brought on by the headlines on my e-mail provider. I first clicked on a story about Glenn Beck being snarky about Meghan McCain and shortly followed with a call for sensitivity training, or his job depending on your point of view, concerning an ESPN reporter. It wasn't the stories so much as the ensuing comments that caught my attention.

Within the commenter's dialogue an obvious trend was emerging. There appeared a clear call for social civility. Commenting authors, describing themselves all across the personality, political and social spectrum were holding forth on the need, everywhere, to tone down the vitriol.

The shooting of Representative Gabrielle Giffords appears to be the turning point for a call to the talking heads and politicos to cease and desist spouting vindictive, hateful, and distasteful discourse.

From the comments on these two articles the public may be ready not to be entertained by demeaning remarks. We have been publicly entertained by bad words and behavior with examples stretching back to The Seven Dirty Words through the wardrobe malfunction to the current lack of social civility.

Unfortunately televised bad behavior, sells. Good behavior is prevalent, largely in the untelevised population located between the east coast/west coast media giants.

No matter the reasons or origins, the turn from social civility should be reversed and the change begins with us. The words from our mouths must be civil. The words we type must be civil. We don't support the sponsors who support those who spout vitriol. If it doesn't pay then it doesn't play. Are you buying?

James 3:6 The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.

Pictures from:
prweb.com
elephantjournal.co

Sanitized Morality vs. Gritty Reality

2011-05-13T11:15:00.000-07:00

The Christian Fiction Conundrum is a post I wrote about some of the identified problems within the Christian fiction market. Specifically those of readers and writers finding themselves in two groups; camp one (1) provides sanitized moral/biblical situations vs. camp two (2) which provides situations closer to reality, more gritty and authentic. While reading I find myself noting scenes and dialogue that would classify the books in one camp or the other.

I have given two examples of novels that land squarely in the #2 group of Christian fiction, The Last Templar (my post here) and The Priest's Graveyard (my post here). I was fortunate to receive an autographed copy of Ann H. Gabhart's novel Sister Angel. Although Sister Angel is in the #1 camp the author does a good job of heading toward the middle of the literary divide.

Alcoholism is a pivitol point in the story but the brush strokes are soft. The family is patient, forgiving and willing to admit their own behavior might be a hinderance to recovery. It was fortunate, I thought, that the character was a quiet drunk, not loud and abusive. Had the character been violent, something many Christians have had to deal with, it would have moved this story into camp #2.

Two fathers in the story are verbally and emotionally abusive. Their children are intimidated and willing to silence their bitterness and remain passive. A soft brush stroke that takes a harsh issue but leaves it in camp #1.

Ann Gabhart writes a poignant, inspirational novel that uses the faith of her characters to teach us a great deal about harsh issues. She will reach a wider audience by using a soft brush stroke. Now, this could be because this is how she writes, but the harsh reality is, soft is a bigger sell.

There are many readers who have expereinced these harsh lessons in real life and would appreciate seeing characters stuggle with family, with addiction, with God; read how they work through these difficult situations and come out, clearly tattered and wounded, but with their faith intact and stronger. Unfortunately the realistic grit of harsh situations is not currently as lucrative for authors in the Christian market and, therefore, is much harder to get published.

There are plenty of readers for all us writers. It is my hope that the internet will help us find each other. Perhaps the internet will match authors and readers in a manner that will provide sufficient marketability data to convince publishers that a wide variety of Christian fiction can be lucrative.

Pictures from: vwdadsclub.com; cartoonbank.com

Awesome Mom Moments

2011-05-06T19:09:00.000-07:00

The Today Show highlighted the book Awesome Things, by Neil Pasricha, a book listing the many small things that happen to each of us that brings joy throughout the day. With Mother's Day this Sunday I thought of the awesome things my mother did throughout my life, growing up, that made my childhood a joy.

Unconditional love. Laughter. Being there after school. Making our house a home. Picnics. Going for car rides and getting a frosty mug of root beer. Porter Wagoner movies at the Drive-In. Summer camping trips. Sunday chicken dinners and watching football. Chocolate chip cookies. Vacations 'up north' on the Deer Skin river. Pets, Roxanne and Taffy.

My mother, like yours, has her dark side and we each have irritating traits to drive each other batty but just as Pasricha found the joy in the simple, everyday things my Mother made my childhood a joyful memory with the simple things she did everyday.

What awesome moments will you share about your mom?

photos from melindatodd.com; untitledny.blogspot.com

Grace of the Common People

2011-04-29T10:02:00.000-07:00

Perhaps it was just the similar story lines that pricked my interest.

The Today Show ran a story titled "Cha-ching! Hedge fund managers earned billions in ’10" the story outlined how savvy hedge fund managers made money on their insight to bet on the housing foreclosure disaster.

The same evening the NBC Evening news ran a story titled Pay Soars for CEOs in industries that took financial hits as did most of the employees.

Quietly following the stories about greed ignoring hardship was a story about the family of Matt Howard, the Butler College forward, playing in the final four basketball championship. Butler player's Pop gets an assist. His father, a mail carrier, couldn't afford to take the family to see the game so customers on his route gave enough money to make that happen.

On our local station the story "Parent's of Fallen Soldier Get Home Makeover" shared that two churches came together to do essential repairs on the family home of a couple who's son gave his life for his country.

How easy to be jaded and angry about people we don't know, doing things we can hardly believe, in places we are vaguely familiar with. Take note and look past the headline story, written in explosive prose to catch your attention, and witness the grace of the common people.

Listen to the stories about individuals like us, in situations similar to our own, reaching out and giving to each other from the heart.

It is happening all around us. We are a part of it.
The good, the helpful, the light of Christ shining on humanity.

The publishing times, they are a changin'.

2011-04-28T19:16:00.000-07:00

I received a press release today from Hachette Book Group.

"Hachette Book Group is pleased to announce the launch of a new faith-based imprint called Jericho Books, an imprint of the Nashville Division of Hachette Book Group. The mission of Jericho Books is to seek new, innovative authors who reflect a growing change in the church. These non-traditional voices will appeal to the fresh perspectives in today’s culture and provide an avenue for those exploring political and social issues as they relate to faith."

This is interesting, and welcome, in the light of the current dialogue concerning Christian fiction. I wait with anticipation to see what Hachette Group considers "fresh perspective's" in today's faith culture. Can we expect a call out for fresh, unpublished authors?

I know we'll all stayed tuned.

Sacred Time

2011-04-21T20:53:00.000-07:00

I was baptized as a baby and confirmed at age 12 into the Congregational Church body. I attended the Presybterian Church youth group through high school. I married a Baptist and joined the Baptist Church through adult baptism at age 19. In Pennyslvania there were no Southern Baptist affiliated churches in our area so we joined in worship with the Church of the Brethern. I like to say I've been on the roulette wheel of denominational church membership.

I grew up with the liturgical calendar, commorating the Sacred Time of Lent and Holy Week with services and traditions on Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter to Pentecost. I enjoy the symbolisim, the rememberance, the planned observance of my Christian faith.

In years past we added our own symbols of rememberance such as having bread and broth (a different homemade bread and soup) on each Sunday during lent, reading scripture around the table and expressing celebration in a personal way.

Our busy lives can make observances outside of Easter Morning and Christmas Day easily obselete. The days come so quickly, many churches don't deliberately celebrate every one of the seasonal events and the sacred days often pass before we can organize our own demonstrations of celebration.

Let me encourage you to make an extra effort to discover the liturgical calendar, plan ahead and make a special family observance of one or more of the scheduled events. The blessings are ten-fold for your own spiritual journey, towards teaching your children the tenets of your faith, towards strengthening relationships and family unity. Enjoyable celebrations often become family tradition.

Your worship is an expression of your personal relationship with Jesus Christ. A relationship you want to honor and share. The liturgical calendar is a great resource for education and celebration.

Take a moment and share your fond memories of faith celebrations and traditions.

The Priest's Graveyard by Ted Dekker: A Review

2011-04-15T12:14:00.000-07:00

I enjoy Christian fiction. In the current conundrum surrounding the Christian fiction market my preferences run towards stories from camp #2 (realistic, harder edge) but there are several authors in camp #1 (softer edge) I enjoy.

The Priest's Graveyard falls firmly into camp #2.  The main character is a priest, having witnessed the brutal murder of his mother and sisters, believes he is meteing out God's justice by assassinating evil individuals that prey on the innocent. In a twist of fate he is joined by a reformed drug addicted prostitute. After they meet there are two more grisly murders before the twist turns them. For a couple so perfectly matched how can the situation end in any way other than tragic.

The words within this brief synopsis sit squarely in camp #2; assassinating priest, drug addicted prostitute, grisly murders.  I have read novels that dealt with harsh issues, used a soft brush stroke, and it was a camp #1 story but Ted Dekker is a pioneer for camp #2. Somehow, somewhere in his career he convinced a publisher that his novels, running a faith theme, dealing with gritty situations and authentic life circumstances, would find a readership and could be lucrative.

Ted Dekker is recognized as a fine author and camp #2 readers will enjoy The Priest's Graveyard, as did I.  It should be pointed out that, here, in the current publishing climate Ted Dekker is forging a path through timid publishers to provide a wider selection of Christian fiction where all readers across the genre can be served.

Also on today's tour stop: wall-to-wall-books.blogspot.com
Tomorrow's stops: edgyinspirationalauthor.blogspot.com; writesprite.wordpress.com

I received a book from the publisher to review.

The Christian Fiction Conundrum

2011-04-08T08:59:00.000-07:00

Next week is my scheduled review of Ted Dekker's upcoming novel The Priest's Graveyard. I will touch on the continuing Christian fiction debate which makes this post an appropriate prerequisite.

A debate is simmering as the publishing industry morphs within the internet. Christian fiction has a problem with labeling, marketing and identifying readership. The basic issues are well outlined at She Reads and Books, Movies and Chinese Food. Many of the writer blogs I follow undoubtedly have an opinion post as well.

Raymond Khoury's The Last Templar is a good example of the division within the Christian market. This novel would fall into the #2 camp of Christian fiction being peppered with salty language, gritty circumstances and unclear lines of right and wrong.

The Last Templar was marketed towards readers of The DiVinci Code. Dan Brown, whether you like his books or not, has helped the Christian fiction market by pulling in readers who may not be interested in 'religious books' but who don't mind a religious theme running within the story.

(We won't discuss, here, how the literary factors get lost in a pointless debate of topic concerning whether any of the fiction is based in fact.)

It would be great if what Christian fiction existed was better marketed, more readily available and easily identified in the bookstores and libraries.

I'd like to think that within the budding world of internet publishing books will fall along the same lines as music. Wherein we now can buy single songs for 99 cents and build our own albums, with on-line books we will get better pre-view information, quick and easy search options and better identification of authors and their literary styles.

Ted Dekker Blog Tour Stop

2011-04-01T13:00:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Deborah over at Books, Movies and Chinese Food for sharing the application to be a stop on Ted Dekker's, The Priest's Graveyard, blog tour. I did and I am. April 15th is my day.

Avid readers will understand the excitement at seeing my complimentary copy of The Priest's Graveyard sitting in my mailbox. This is my first opportunity to host on a tour and there is a bit of pressure to represent well. Declaring myself a writer, readers should expect my review to be well-thought out, full of words that indicate I understand the craft and provide a trustworthy opinion of the material.

In reality I intend to try and stay away from the rambling on, over the top, "I'm your biggest fan" type of post. I'm thrilled to dip my pen in the ink well next to a well-known author much less offer a review of their story.

Thank you to the Ted Dekker team for letting me tag along.

The tour starts on April 8th with the first stop at My Friend Amy's blog.

4 For You

2011-03-24T19:36:00.000-07:00

“Love is a many splendored thing”, and a loving relationship takes work to keep it splendored. In our hurry scurry world so many things get left undone. Don’t let your love come undone. A loving relationship is the one thing that makes the ugly world recede and provides a safe haven to rest in. It is a treasure that God blesses us with here on earth.

A Holy Experience, had some wonderful advice about how to keep love fresh by investing 4 minutes a day. 4 minutes for; 4 affirmations, 4 hugs, 4 fixations.

4 Affirmations: If saying good things about ourselves, with self-affirmations, can boost our spirits how great could we make our loved one feel by purposely saying 4 kind and good things to them?

4 Hugs: Physical contact with someone you love speaks volumes. Make eye contact, hug and reset your love meter to “Yes! You are one for me.”

4 Fixations: At these four places let your love be known; when you leave the marriage bed, when you leave the front door, when you return through the front door, when you return to the marriage bed.

Relationships take time and effort, even a good relationship needs constant maintenance. Keep your love fresh doing these simple things.

Every relationship in your life will benefit from a hug and/or kind word. Don’t let a day go by that you haven’t expressed love and gratitude to; your spouse, your children, your parents, your friends, your co-workers. Let God’s love shine through you.

The Definition of Prosper

2011-03-18T10:36:00.000-07:00

Reading through blogs I follow Melinda Velez over at Mel's Godly Gals gave me an "ah-ha" moment.

I don't imagine I'm the only Christian who studies the Bible and takes in the many references to God's prospering his saints. These from Deuteronomy are fairly standard;

you may live and prosper

we might always prosper

you may prosper in everything you do

This from Jeremiah is well known: For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Reading these am I alone in thinking, and sub-consciously expecting, that if I live my life as God calls me to that I should surely prosper? I'm using the defintion of prosper in accordance to Merriam Webster; to succeed in an enterprise or activity, especially to achieve economic success.

Melinda Velez helped me to hear what I sub-consciously already know. Dollars signs are not the only sign, or the usual sign, God grants prosperity. God prospers us with intelligence, wisdom, opportunities and relationships. Counting these blessings my life is rich indeed!

I needed the reminder to look outside the box of current thought. Do you, too, need a reminder?

The Secret of Wait

2011-03-12T21:43:00.000-08:00

My sweet sister-in-law, Brenda, shared a poem that spoke to my heart. I believe it will speak to many of you, too.

A thoughtful friend was familiar with this poem and knew the author of this wonderful piece, Russell Kelfer.

Russell Kelfer (1933-2000) was an elder and Bible teacher at Wayside Chapel in San Antonio, Texas for more than 20 years. During his life time he was active in a broad variety of Christian projects ranging from education to a World's Fair pavilion. His legacy of practical application Bible studies, poems, and fictional stories know no denominational boundaries. (Information courtsey of http://ffmp3.firefighters.org/kelfer.asp)

The Secret of Wait
by
Russell Kelfer

Desperately, helplessly, longingly I cried;

Quietly, patiently, lovingly God replied.

I pled and I wept for a clue to my fate,

And the Master so gently, said, "Child, you must wait."

My future and all to which I relate,

Hangs in the balance, and you tell me to WAIT?

I'm needing a "yes," a go-ahead sign,

Or a "no," to which I then can resign.

And, Lord, you promised that if we believe,

We need but to ask, and we shall receive.

And, Lord, I've been asking, and this is my cry,

I'm weary of asking, I need a reply!

Then quietly, softly, I learned of my fate;

As my Master replied, once again, "You must wait."

So, I slumped in my chair, defeated and taut

And grumbled to God, "So I'm waiting... for what?"

He seemed then to kneel, and His eyes wept with mine,

And He tenderly said, "I could give you a sign."

I could shake the heavens and darken the sun,

I could raise the dead and cause the mountains to run.

All you seek I could give and pleased you would be.

You would have what you want, but you would not know Me.

You'd not know the depth of My love for each saint.

You'd not know the power that I give to the faint.

You'd not learn to see through the clouds of despair,

You'd not learn to trust by knowing I'm there.

You'd not know the joy of resting in Me,

When darkness and silence were all you could see.

You'd never experience that fullness of love,

As the peace of My Spirit descends like a dove.

The glow of My comfort, late into the night,

The faith that I give when you walk without sight.

The depth that's beyond getting just what you asked,

Of an infinite God, who makes what you have, last.

You'd never know, should your pain quickly flee,

What it means that "My grace is sufficient for thee."

Yes, your dreams for your loved ones, overnight would come true,

But, oh, the loss if I lost, what I'm doing in you!

So, be silent, My child, and in time you will see,

That the greatest of gifts is to get to know Me.

And though oft' My answers seem terribly late,

My most precious answer of all is still WAIT.

Praying you know the peace, comfort and joy of Jesus Christ.

Spring Teaser 2011

2011-03-05T13:16:00.000-08:00

Today was #5 in a string of beautiful spring days. It has reached 80 degrees. That's technically summer weather but hitting those temps in March I consider it just darn nice. D. and I have made good use of the opportunity to clean up the flower and garden beds, lay down the pre-emergent and trim, trim, trim.

Smelling the freshly turned earth and wiping the sweat off my brow I thought of all my family and friends still under a sheet of snow or blanket of cold.

In your honor I have soaked up this wonderful day to pass along to you. Enjoy a glimpse of warm things to come.

$2500 Essay

2011-02-25T18:48:00.000-08:00

My son has been applying for scholarships in preparation for college next year. James Patterson offered an essay contest and L. placed second, winning a $2500 scholarship. Congratulations!

The prompt:

How has your favorite book pushed you towards what you’d like to do in life?

Seventh Grade was an eventful year. It was a milieu of hormones, differing classroom environments and a general raising of academic expectations. I could truly be described as a tabula rasa; educated in many fields, but lacking any governing attraction between the fields of mathematics, philosophy, history, and the physical sciences.

Reading was a favored pastime of mine, used to while away spare moments between classes. I devoured Dickens, tackled Tolkien, and humbled myself with Homer. Beyond all these, I fell in love with Mark Twain's "A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court". The fanciful narrative had all that an adolescent boy could hope for: tom-foolery, combat, and a slight bit of romance for flavor.

By the end of the novel, my dream had taken form: I wanted to be the Hank Morgan of the Modern Era (absenting the blow to the head and the messy affairs of time travel). Rather, I wanted to emulate what Twain's protagonist stood for: a beam of scientific intellect among the ignorant masses, called to govern by responsibility to the people rather than by avarice. Fermentation and actualization of this realization would take years.

Every time I entered my science classroom, I would remember how Hank had blown up Merlin's tower through the use of gunpowder (chemistry) or how he defeated the army of the Catholic Church using an electric fence (physics). Each example made it quite clear that he who understands the dictates of the language of Physical Science had great control over the machinations of the world.

Further study would only increase my ability to manipulate the world around me, and considering the general dearth of scientifically minded individuals in my classrooms, it seemed to not only offer a viable career pending college graduation, but also engendered the technocratic style of leadership.

My junior year of high school would highlight a second field where our Modern Man had changed medieval Britain. Economics came quite naturally to me. Whether it be an analytical approach to problems developed over several years of painstaking lab assessments in chemistry or just a natural understanding gleaned by the side notes of the many novels I read, the flow of money not only made logical sense in my mind but also struck me as one of the most important classes I would take that year.

It had been years since I last cracked open the book, and yet I found myself striving, again, to become Mark Twain's Hank Morgan. I had become a technocrat, the only real political assignment that could be given to the North Eastern factory worker. With such a background it is no surprise that I have chosen to double major in Chemical Physics and Economics at Rice University in Houston, Texas. With the education I receive there, I will undoubtedly be able to push our country forward, similar to a certain Connecticut Yankee.

Author: L.D.C.B.

Where Have All the Fathers Gone?

2011-02-18T12:52:00.000-08:00

It is award season and the airwaves are full of ceremonies celebrating just about everything. It is understandable that we want to recognize our favorites, we want others to see we are recognizing our favorites and if there is money to be made by televising the recognizing of our favorites the ceremony will surely be found on one of the many, many cable channels.

I have no problem with these shows, my angst is generated from the behavior of these favorites and the implied acceptance of their behavior.

The Today show was the culprit who ignited my irritation. They were showing the fashions displayed at the Golden Globes and commenting on the number of starletts who have chosen to give birth as single mothers and how wonderfully they have draped their "baby bumps." (On a subsequent episode of the Today show it was said the "baby bump" is the new accessory.)

I'll admit to having crossed that generational line of finding these girls naive and ignornant in their lack of knowledge of what, even today, will be the struggles for a single mother. This debate alone has it's own legs but I want to address a different issue;

Where are the fathers?

What has happened to the men? Marriage may not be expected yet the mother's appearance in public with no mention of his name gives the indication that he has cast his progeny to the wind, along with his obligations and self respect.

Man up! You have made a child, you have a responsibility to that child, and if your proud of sleeping around be proud enough to attach your name to the results...

....I'm just sayin'.

A Fireplace Moment

2011-02-10T15:23:00.000-08:00

A fireplace was not a 'must have' when house shopping. My general impression; they were messy and an added chore. I didn't mind the smokey smell and under someone else's care, were comforting and romantic but the upkeep outweighed the positive aspects for me.

Our first Texas home just happened to have a fireplace. It was large, well built, a gas starter with a clean out built into the bottom that was accessed through a chute located on the patio.

I fell in love with the fireplace.

I became a master fire-starter.

In our second Texas home there just happened to be a fireplace, smaller, with a gas starter but no clean out chute. Oh whoa, my disappoinment was minimial, my love for the warmth and comfort was not diminished by the extra upkeep.

In the time honored tradition of CBS Sunday Morning News - Moments of Nature I want to leave you with a warm Fireplace Moment. Enjoy.
(Filmed on Super Bowl Weekend)

Be Mine!

2011-02-04T12:06:00.000-08:00

Here comes Valentine’s Day, a wonderful opportunity to express love and appreciation to the people who make our lives worth living. Valentine's are not just for the coupled, everyone should be loved and appreicated so think outside the dated and married and send Valentines.

Gifts are fun to give and receive, great tips can be found here. Today, a week ahead of the big day, is a good time to visit our gift receiving expectations, and adjust them.

Some things for us all to consider:

1. If you are not big on receiving gifts, or have verbally said you don’t care (whether that is true or you were speaking through another emotion at the moment), those words will be considered truth so don’t get angry because he is doing what you said.

2. If you’ve made a specific gift request you’ve taken it out of his hands. If he’s happy and you are happy, good deal. If he doesn’t get what you asked for find out why, it may be more financial than emotional.

3. Don’t drop hints and then be angry if he didn’t pick up on them. NO ONE can read your mind and it is your fault for expecting him to. You should visit number 2, it will make for a happier holiday.

4. He may not seem interested in receiving on Valentine’s Day but showing up unexpectedly with his favorite candy bar or soda, delivered with a kiss, will speak volumes.

5. You may not have a significant other that will bring you expressions of love but you don’t have to look far to be significant to someone. Don’t let self pity and loneliness have their way, push them aside with thoughtfulness and express your love and appreciation. An example:

Last year our son gave us a heartwarming valentine. He set the laptop computer on the kitchen table pulling up valentine wallpaper and composing his own ode of appreciation. He then sprinkled the table with red and pink chocolate candies. He did this the night before so we would find it in the morning.

Share the love of Christ on February 14th; be a grateful Valentine or make someone your Valentine. This holiday does not have to pass unexpressed.

Be Not Afraid

2011-01-28T15:09:00.000-08:00

Of the many writer and inspirational blogs I follow it is popular to pick a word that will represent the New Year. I like this idea and after posting my Holy Fear blog it's been decided that this year will be represented by the words "be not afraid."

This is a transitional year for my family. Our only child will graduate from high school and leave for college in the fall. Immediately we have to get through the final papers, tests and celebrations in May. In the distance he needs to prep for life in the dorm. In the meantime we need to establish college money; where it will come from and how to intelligently manage it. Within all these things are so many unknowns.

These unknowns generate feelings similar to a dark and stormy night where the electricity just went out, my flashlight is dead and something just thumped into the back door. I’m anxious and not a little bit scared.

Reading the blog, A Holy Experience, the author was expressing the same feelings when she reflected on the words “Be not afraid.” As I read that phrase, I too, felt an immediate peace. As an agent of the kingdom, seeking to be obedient to God’s word and call on my life, the exhortation to ‘be not afraid’ applies to me and my situation. Of all the unknowns that are before us I am a believer and if I am to remain obedient to His words I should ‘be not afraid.’ If God is for us, who can be against us? Romans 8:31.

These will be my ‘words’ for 2011. Whatever comes my way; whatever hill there is to climb, river to ford or forest to pass through (or; graduation party to throw, full-time job to accept or college bill to pay), I will be not afraid for God is with me. He is in my heart, in my mind and in my soul; He is my solid rock.

I’ll keep you posted on how obedient I am to this. My humanity alone makes this endeavour difficult, but for right now, I am safe and at peace; I am not afraid.

Winter Grillin'

2011-01-20T15:49:00.000-08:00

We live in the Texas Panhandle where winter can be a lion or a lamb. On a day in early January, when it is 56 degrees and sunny, the idea to grill is a good one. The thing to keep in mind, in winter, is that supper needs to be early or you'll be grilling in the dark, as we were.

We really enjoy meat off the grill. We tend to pull out the stops when we fire up the coals and fix enough for the week. This night we did steaks, chicken and pork chops. Staying in step with our wellness program, (begun here and celebrated here), and the Points Plus plan we roasted carrots, onions and potatos in the oven.

The night cooled quickly once the sun went down and we were checking progress with a flash light but, . . . umm, umm.

My son came outside, sniffed the air and crooned, "Nothin' like winter grillin'."

I couldn't agree more.

Holy Fear or How Painful is 'Best'?

2011-01-14T12:59:00.000-08:00

Surfing the blogs I follow I discovered a C.S. Lewis quote posted on The Write Track, that puts into words my personal holy fear.

“We’re not necessarily doubting that God will do the best for us; we are wondering how painful the best will turn out to be.” C.S. Lewis

Without a doubt I feel God’s love and guidance in my life. Without a doubt I know he wants the best for me. Without a doubt I want to be an active, useful agent of His kingdom.

I know that God has to live in me to make this happen. I know that means I need/will change from my sinful self. I know that change often comes by way of fire. 1 Peter 1:7-9 (NIV) expresses my feelings perfectly:

In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your souls.

But honestly . . . I’m afraid of the fire! You don’t have to live long in the faith to recognize that God changes hearts in the worst of conditions and, understandably, those conditions often exist because of our own selfish decisions. As I purposely seek God I am truly hoping that the days of refinement by fire are fading, wishful thinking perhaps, but the truth none-the-less.

I wonder, also, how painful will God’s best be for my son? He knows the Bible stories, he’s accepted my faith, he’s professed Christ as his savior but he is becoming a young adult. He’s begun to question me, he surely will question God. If his salvation is sincere God will mold him into the person that is best. I know that process will certainly be painful. As a parent I cannot deny my fear for him.

Coming to an understanding of God's best for us is continued spiritual growth. Working through, or guiding someone through, the pain is part of the refining process; seeking God and finding him in the midst is the treasured end result.

This could be a good reason that the phrase “Be not afraid” is spoken often in the Bible. Fear is of our own making and the reasons to be fearful are our own but if we are truly seeking after God’s will, for us and for our loved ones, we need not fear.

I want the best that God wants for me, and those I love, even knowing it will likely include some pain to reach it. Along the way I'll do my 'best' not to be afraid.

All You Need Is Love

2011-01-07T17:31:00.000-08:00

I watched the movie “Up in the Air” with George Clooney recently. The main character was an expert on simplifying life by disassociating from relationships. His day job was firing employees from companies that were downsizing. The character lived an, understandably, solitary life.

Throughout the movie there were cameos of employees being “let go” and the myriad of reactions to such life changing news. The story didn’t grab me; actually I was more irritated by the lead female’s cavalier manner, until the end.

**Spoiler Alert** Our hero finally found love, which lead him to re-establish relationships with his family, then he was spurned, returning him to his simple, solitary existence and forcing him to reevaluate his life philosophy.

The ending made the story for me but the most interesting twist was the return cameos of those he had fired sharing what would help them survive; their wives, children, friends, parents; essentially, their relationships.

We were created to have relationship. The Bible is often mistaken to be a book of "the how and the when”, it's not, it is a book about "the who and the why”. It is a book meant to teach us how to relate to God and how to relate to our fellow man.

The first four commandments, of the Ten Commandments, are how we are to relate to God. The next six commandments are how we are to relate to each other. Jesus, when asked what the greatest commandment is replied, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself." All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” Matthew 22:37-40

I despaired for what the hero was missing with his solitary life, and more so when he discovered the joy in relationships, only to be cruelly pushed back to solitary. The relationship lesson was made all the more poignant in the words of those he dispassionately dispatched from their working relationships.

You will get no argument that relationships are difficult. I outlined my thoughts here, “The god of Selfishness”.

See the movie and let me know what you think.

Sharing the Mood

2011-01-02T16:41:00.000-08:00

Wives and mothers will quickly relate to what I’m about to say. My mood is reflected on my family. When I’m happy they reflect positive, when I’m grouchy they reflect irritation, when I’m sad they reflect concern.

When the regular routine of our lives is changed, for good or no, my moods swing about quickly and arbitrarily because I, too, reflect the out-of-sync moods of family members.

Christmas break, two weeks generally, moves our family off their regular routine. I’m happy because of the festivities. I’m anxious because there is so much to do, to buy, and to prepare. I’m irritated when plans don’t go as expected, people don’t aptly appreciate the efforts made, and gatherings aren’t as fun as hoped for. I’m sad when the party is over and the clean up begins. I’m irritated, again, when everything doesn’t repack efficiently.

By the end of the holiday break we are all ready to get back to our regular routine.

Psychology 101: Changing your behavior will change the behavior of those around you. I know this, you likely know this, so why do I wallow in anxiousness, irritation and sadness? Especially in the “out-of-sync” times why do I not consciously decide to keep my mood happy, upbeat, and lively for myself as well as those around me? Why, when irritation and anxiousness are so quick to show up do I not make a point of actively battling those moods?

The god of Selfishness is the answer and as surely as I know this I am disappointed that I am so easily controlled by it. We are all so easily controlled by selfishness and we are all called, as agents of the heavenly kingdom, NOT to be.

In this new year I will be in control of my moods, recognize selfishness early and diligently strive to reflect a positive and upbeat mood.

How about you?

Holiday Travelogue

2010-12-17T09:08:00.000-08:00

We have entered the third week of Advent on the liturgical calendar and are currently driving through the week of joy.

I started my Road Through the Holidays, in November, reading “thanksgiving” scriptures. In December I began researching the avalanche of information that can be found on the internet concerning Advent. I have been steeped in scripture, traditions, denominationalism and history. I have taken quizzes on the scriptures of the Christmas story, surprised when I didn’t make 100.

For the advent weeks of hope, peace, now joy, (and soon love) I am trying to embrace these characteristics and exemplify them. (I should poll my husband, son and co-workers after the season to see if I was successful.)

The initial objective is being met, spending time in the scriptures and “being still.” My holiday expectations have been reduced; a direct reflection of this new route. The rush from season’s past is missing. Do I feel like I’m missing out?

Stopping to ponder that question, assess my feelings, search my heart; the answer is no. There is nothing I’m denying myself. I’m enjoying this new route.

I’ll admit I’m waiting for that Christmas moment. A magical, spirit filled moment of revelation or insight. Perhaps that’s an expectation born of too many Hallmark movies but who doesn’t yearn for the moment when the bell on the Christmas tree tinkles and you know another angel received their wings?

Have you experienced that kind of magicial, Christmas moment?

Cosmetics and the Mature Woman

2010-12-10T12:33:00.000-08:00

It’s morning and a freshly washed face stares back at me through the bathroom mirror. With confidence I pull out the tools that will transform this older canvas into an illusion of, well . . . less older.

There are a few man-made marvels that I am truly thankful for, in-door plumbing being foremost, but cosmetics have a prominent spot on that list. My gratitude deepens in conjunction with the lines on my face.

As a young girl make-up was used to change from bright eyes to smoky eyes, between innocent and seductive, from pale to apple cheeked, from matte and natural to glossy and dramatic. The only ‘cover up’ used was for the pesky blemish.

As an older woman it’s all about the coverage. I don’t want to change my appearance as much as ‘hide’ the signs of aging. The furrows firmly established on my forehead and around my mouth, the age spots on my neck, the darkness around my eyes.

The wonders of makeup, and the art of using it, make hiding these exasperating, but inevitable marks of age, uncomplicated.

I’m not a brand follower but when I find something I like I stick with it. Max Factor went out of business, while I wasn’t looking, and took a favored pan stick with them. Reaching out for recommendations two suggestions came back for Max Studio Tech. I’m using it and so far am very pleased.

L’Oreal Voluminous is the mascara of choice as well as their Bare Naturale for blush. Cover Girl professional loose powder has been a staple along with Revelon’s Skin Lights powder which does an excellent job putting light in those furrows and brightening up the eyes. Avon has a Slick Tint colored lip balm that I’ve purchased in bulk but there is a myriad of suitable lip tints in the drawer.

I’m one of those that say, “Bring it on!” to aging. It’s a part of life and I’m ready to embrace it but there is definitely nothing wrong with looking good along the way.

Do you have a product worth noting? Please share.

Nativity Unplugged

2010-12-02T09:21:00.000-08:00

We have a nativity scene, a really nice nativity scene that we purchased from Sam’s Wholesale Club over five years ago. My husband is a Church History professor who has taught Old and New Testament survey courses for over eleven years. If he is teaching New Testament during the winter term there is always an extra credit question; “How many Wise Men were at the manger?”

Do you know the correct answer?

Zero. They were not at the manger; they were in their own countries taking notice of a new star. References include Matthew 2:11 which says of the Magi arriving at Mary and Joseph’s, “On coming to the house”, not the manger. Further, in Matthew 2:16 is the reference of age concerning the new King of the Jews King Herod ordered killed, “those who were two years old and under, in accordance with the time he had learned from the Magi.”

If the Wise Men were not at the manger scene why do we put them there? My guess, for those selling nativities it’s a merchandising decision, for all the others it allows for more roles in the Christmas pageant.

I don’t have a problem with the Wise Men standing next to the new born savior but professors, such as my husband, find it very annoying. We are misleading generations.

Long standing traditions are difficult to change, especially societal traditions. Our solution, we put the Wise Men on an opposite surface and make an effort to explain their position.

The Wise Men are a large part of the Christmas story, include them in their proper place. Wishing you and yours a blessed holiday season.

A Holiday Driving Update

2010-11-27T20:31:00.000-08:00

It is Saturday, after Thanksgiving, and I want to give an update on my Road Through the Holidays.

In the limited concordance of my Bible I have 29 scripture references for various forms of the word thankful. In addition to my daily study I spent time writing down some of these scriptures and contemplating what they meant to me in my world. Making time to "be still" I will admit to being less harried or rushed, even with a three day trip out of town to enjoy the holiday with family.

What was I looking for? Honestly, I'd hoped for that rush of inspiration when a concept is made clear, the meaning unmistakeable. The moment wasn't quite the rush I was looking for, more a quiet whisper across my heart.

Today, as I was reading through the blogs I follow Window on the Prairie posted a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, 1896. The first stanza held the gem:

We walk on starry fields of white
And do not see the daisies;

For blessings common in our sight

We rarely offer praises.

We sigh for some supreme delight

To crown our lives with splendor,

And quite ignore our daily store

Of pleasures sweet and tender.

My supreme delight should be in the common sights. Offer praises on these things. In my notes most of my reflections listed the common and daily issues as I mined my thoughts for the "supreme delight". I have reread my notes and see the supreme delight is, thankfully, already there.

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV).

What insight did this Thanksgiving holiday provide you?

Cruckson Quilt

2010-11-22T12:45:00.000-08:00

I’m going to toot my own horn today . . . but first, this moment was made possible by my sister, Jackie, and so I want to give a big THANKS shout out to her. Jackie was in possession of a serger (an overlock sewing machine to the un-initiated) that she so graciously passed on to me. It sat, stored, in my extra closet for over a year as I made plans to set it up and learn how to use it.

Fortunately, at work, there was a request for stage curtains to be made and I saw my opportunity to put the serger into action and teach myself how to use it. Mission accomplished on both counts.

I then set my sights on a t-shirt quilt made out of ALL my son’s school shirts. Looking over the pattern it seemed a good idea to do a test quilt. I have many t-shirts from a recurring family reunion event that seemed perfect for the project.

The Cruckson Reunion t-Shirt quilt is now complete.

My new motto: Have serger will travel!

Holiday Grinch

2010-11-19T09:18:00.000-08:00

The holiday season is typical for bringing out the best, and the worst, in us. The average individual is moved by the need of others and will generally go beyond the normal routine to extend compassion to those less fortunate.

With so much goodwill pouring from our heart and hands we extend that giving to our families by producing outside the norm through decorations, gifts, food and the like.

In the midst of all this goodness the normal chores and responsibilities must be continued. Dark clouds can dim our celebration with the lack of assistance from family members in completing all the normal, required tasks plus those special extras we have endeavored to do for others. Why the dark clouds?

The lack of appreciation! Why can’t they appreciate what I’m doing for myself? I know this feeling because I stumbled across it the Christmas of ’02. I was rushing to make Christmas pajamas and not getting help, in what I thought was a timely manner, on the other fun and festive plans I had in play. My patience came to an end and the Grinch appeared. The conversation went something like this:

“Why are you so irritated?” In a calm, soothing voice.
“Because I’m trying to get these pajamas done and we need to finish . . .(and so on.)” Agitated and whiney.
“Why are you trying to do (this) now?” Calm and soothing.
“I’m doing it for you guys and I’m feeling very underappreciated!” High pitched and teary.
“Thank you for (all this) but don’t do it for us. We are having a good time without (them).” Logical and matter-of-fact.

Moral of the Story: If you are feeling underappreciated reevaluate who and why you are doing these things; are the decorations because ‘everybody’ else wants them or is it because you like them, is all that food necessary or do you want to have each special dish available, does that individual want that trinket or do you want three gifts for everybody.

If the Grinch starts taking up residence in your heart, stop, and remember what the Who’s down in Who-ville already know, “Christmas dosen't come from a store, Christmas is just a little bit more. Christmas day is in our grasp as long as we have hands to clasp; Christmas day will always be just as long as we have we.”

Love In 300 Words

2010-11-13T13:55:00.000-08:00

Donna's Book Pub, a blog I follow, posted about the opportunity to write and submit a senior love story . At 300 words it is an excellent writing exercise. Short stories require tight, concise and precise writing. Following is my parent’s story, which I've submitted. If you try this exercise come back and leave your link in the comments, I’d love to read your love story.

It was written in her 8th grade annual, for anyone to see, "I'm coming back to marry you." He was a 17 year old farm boy who liked to skate with trouble; he was on his way to the Marines. Her dad was the superintendent of schools, her mother a school teacher and they could see trouble coming.

In the 1950's the Portage roller skating rink was a party beacon for teenagers in a 50 mile radius. He skated tricky, fast, wild and slow with all the girls, even her sister. She was off limits and sister was the sentinel posted to say so.

He wrote her while in basic, declaring his love and intent to make her his own. In the spring, three years later, he knocked on the Edgewater Street door. She pushed aside her steady and her parent’s objections and married him in the fall. Aunt didn't waste time or money monogramming the towels; it wouldn't last.

High school dropouts they both returned to finish college; Bill going on to teach at a Junior College and Jane to become a Funeral Director. With the youngest child graduated, they sold their home and followed a dream to travel the highways and bi-ways of this great country. They spent twenty years living in the close quarters of a semi-truck as team drivers.

November, 2010 they celebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary. Jane and Bill raised four daughters and enjoy four son-in-laws and seven grandchildren. They established their retirement home on the land that Bill grew up on, outside the town where Jane lived. They are active in the VFW, Historical Society, Friends of the Library and the First Congregational Church.

Love found a way through trouble, objections, and the test of time. Aunt, you should have monogrammed the towels.

Road Through the Holidays

2010-11-07T09:23:00.000-08:00

I always approach the holiday season with anticipation and excitement. I love this time of year and all that comes with it; changing colors, smell of decaying leaves, fires in the fireplace, house slippers, electric bed heaters, decorating for Thanksgiving and Christmas. During this time I expect to draw closer to Jesus, understand Him better, have Him reveal Himself more clearly to me in the wonder and traditions that are the holidays.

Frequently, when January dawns, I look back over November and December for the moments of personal growth and soul drenching joy of the season, and do not find it. There is so much effort put towards making everything festive and bright that Jesus was far from my mind and I, again, missed the joy of Him in the celebration. Church services, shopping, cooking and gift giving are all hurried to generate the most fun and celebration until it is all over, and I am in January, tired and tattered from all the revelry.

There are no illusions that the fault is my own. Therefore, this week, as I sought God in my studies and prayed for diligence to be more aware the Holy Spirit whispered across my mind that I need only to "be still".

Wow, who would have guessed that "being still" would cause me such angst.
I'm listening, though, and I have every intention of being obedient.

My plan is this; reading through the Bible passages that mention thanks, thankfulness or thanksgiving, through November, writing them down, pondering them and "being still". In December, reading through the passages associated with the Christmas story, writing them down, meditating on them and "being still".

It is my hope to enter January having thoroughly enjoyed the holidays for what they mean to me; to have spent quality time with my savior and be enriched and strengthened. Again, this is on me, can I be obedient to this plan? I'll let you know in January.

What do you do to celebrate Jesus in the holiday season?

He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” Ps. 46:10 NIV

1,2,3 Gifts That Count

2010-10-30T11:23:00.000-07:00

The holiday season is just beginning but I am well aware there are organized individuals already making their Christmas gift lists. Some have already been purchasing and wrapping.

Missionary friends made a poignant, but gentle reminder, that we, who live here in the land of plenty have plenty to give. Many reputable organizations make giving gifts to our loved ones a double value by also benefiting others. Here are four of mine; list your favorite organization in the comments and I’ll draw one name on Friday and send a $5 bill just for taking the time to share. Be sure to leave contact information.

World Crafts Put on your holiday gift list items from groups that sell goods like World Crafts.

Heifer International Help purchase farm animals through Heifer International.

Samaritan’s Purse Perhaps you would rather they give your gift in the form of a shoebox to a child through Samaritan’s Purse.

Compassion Child Provide food and education through Compassion Child.

Christmas is a great opportunity to teach children, and adults, how they can actually provide for other’s physical needs. Be well informed, reputable organizations make their financials available; don’t throw your seeds into the weeds; but don’t forget to cast them either as the result is the same.

Matthew 5:14-16 "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." NIV

Pascal & Me

2010-10-22T19:20:00.000-07:00

My husband is a Church History professor and keeps a finger on the pulse of religion and culture in the media. Recently he showed me an op/ed piece from USA Today titled Religion and Science Aren’t Friends.

The opinion in this piece is a common one. Believers cannot prove religious "truth" and science is a multicultural search for truth. The piece adds much more about the differences between science and religion and where believers have it wrong. This is an opinion and the writer is welcome to it. For the cyber surfers and my small band of subscribers and followers, this is my opinion.

This discussion is a short one when the resources are not accepted by both parties. The Bible is the believer’s source, the word of truth. Being classified as a believer it is “believed” that the Bible is true. All roads lead back to the Bible, what it contains is the truth therefore it is the solid rock on which the believer stands. If the Bible is not an accepted resource by the opposing debater then the discussion stops here. No agreement will be reached.

This discussion not only stems from different resources but from different mental approaches. The op/ed writer wants to approach from logic and many believers approach from feelings. From the logical angle I defer to Pascal and his wager. The gamble is this: (excerpts from Pensées, part III, note 233):

1. "God is, or He is not"
2. A game is being played... where heads or tails will turn up.
3. According to reason, you can defend neither of the propositions.
4. You must wager. It is not optional.
5. Let us weigh the gain and the loss in wagering that god is. Let us estimate these two chances. If you gain, you gain eternal life; if you lose, you lose nothing.
6. Wager, then, without hesitation that He is. (...) There is only a happy life to gain, and at the end, nothing to lose.

From the feeling approach, which science still struggles to test and evaluate, quantify and qualify, belief comes in stages. There is an initial choice to believe in God, even when all else is in opposition. This is a conscious choice of will to suspend what we see and have faith in what is unseen. Within this “chosen belief” the miraculous happens, (another stumbling block to scientific exploration). God reveals himself to the believer, and from my own experience, the more I seek Him through prayer, study and obedience to His commands (found in the Bible) He is revealed more clearly and substantially until the epiphany, a moment when the choice is no longer a suspension of things seen but a certainty of that which is unseen.

Those who have experienced this know of which I speak. Those who have chosen to believe are seeking that day. Those who don’t understand; choose not to understand; may never understand, no agreement will be reached.

They will do such things because they have not known the Father or me. John 16:3 (NIV)

Same Music: Different Age

2010-10-16T15:21:00.000-07:00

The Friday Summer Concert Series that the Today show runs is always interesting. I’ve never been a music fan, listening to the Top 40 or favorites of friends and family.

I do know the importance of music in culture, the important role it can play in a person’s life and the effect it can have on individuals and crowds. The Today show offers a quick glimpse of what is currently popular and what the culture is thinking, or singing, about.

On the occasional Friday the lyrics from the #1 song of the highlighted artist filters through my preparations for the day. Generally, it is something in the lyrics that catches my attention and sends me into a myriad of thoughts on the psychology of music. It happened on a recent Friday and this is what I thought:

Katy Perry, “I Kissed the Girl”

I kissed a girl and I liked it/the taste of her cherry chap stick
I kissed a girl just to try it/I hope my boyfriend don’t mind it
It felt so wrong, it felt so right, don’t mean I’m in love tonight
I kissed a girl and I liked it, I liked it

I was initially surprised at such lyrics but a little thought and lyrics from the past flooded my memories.

1990, The Divinyls:
“I Touch Myself.”
The title suffices and it caused some controversy but made it to #4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Reaching back to 1972 there was plenty to raise an eyebrow about.
Billy Paul, “Me and Mrs. Jones”
Me and Mrs. Jones, we got a thing going on
We both know that it's wrong
But it's much too strong to let it cool down now

Later, I was driving and put in the soundtrack to “The Music Man,” 1962, and paid close attention to the lyrics of “The Sadder-But-Wiser Girl for Me”
I flinch, I shy, when the lass with the delicate air goes by
I smile, I grin, when the gal with a touch of sin walks in.
I hope, and I pray, for a Hester to win just one more "A"
The sadder-but-wiser girl's the girl for me.
The sadder-but-wiser girl for me

Which took me back to 1950’s Paul Brown and “Butcher Pete”
(This is featured in the 2008 Fallout 3 soundtrack, for those thinking, “Where have I heard that?”)
Butcher Pete's got a long sharp knife
He starts choppin' and don't know when to stop
All you fellows gotta watch your wife
'Cause Pete don't care who's meat he chops

Clearly, a central topic runs through our culture and spans the ages in music. Each generation has their own way of putting the idea into words and with different levels of shock value. The end assessment is that every generation has their songs on this topic and they can be shocking at any time to anyone. The trend will continue with future generations adding their music to this mix, using their own vernacular and shocking past and present alike.

College On My Mind

2010-10-08T12:02:00.000-07:00

In an effort to post regularly I've discussed pertinent Biblical lessons and our efforts at weight loss and good eating. What other things are on my mind? Today it is the college application process.

We are in the midst of college applications and early decision dates. Most applications ask for the same information in a slightly different format. The efficiency of the ‘world wide web’ has produced the concept of the common application. This is common to a select group which does not include our little group of three, ergo, I’m sharing our numerical statistics (3 times) + the scarce state of our collegiate financial situation (3 times) + the supplements each institution requires because they are not common.

While I am busy digging out the past, present and future our senior is preparing, studying and testing for the separate test requirements. His anxiety level ebbs and flows with each passing event. Tomorrow concludes this process and I’m thinking a “Whew, It’s Done” party is in order, a celebratory event before the vigil for acceptance letters begin.

This process has turned into an emotional roller coaster because of our anticipation of acceptance into a major research university that will require several essential pieces fall into place, that, and an early seasonal head cold we’ve been passing around.

My one advantage; I’m an emotional NON-eater. Goal weight maintenance is, momentarily, a non-issue.

What is on your mind today?

Zero Never Tasted So Good

2010-10-01T11:49:00.000-07:00

Apparently my mind is on food lately but a good discovery needs to be shared. Weight Watchers has a Zero Point Soup that is a meal maker on several fronts.

Once we cleaned our digestive systems of pre-processed foods, the abundant flavor found in fresh fruits and vegetables was really rather astounding. We started with the Zero Point soup as filler at meal time and in-between. It wasn’t long before we found that using this soup as a base made many other calorie friendly meals.

Puree some soup in a blender to use as the base for spaghetti sauce, chili macaroni, or any recipe that you would use tomato juice. We made delicious bisque by adding ½ cup half and half, Cajun seasoning and salad shrimp to a base of pureed Zero Point Soup.

Zero Point Soup has become a staple in our refrigerator. If you are not a vegetable fan be courageous and try this as a base to other meals, it’s good for your taste buds, your waist, and your health.

Enron and Ezekiel

2010-09-28T09:45:00.000-07:00

During my morning quiet time I was reading in Ezekiel 33 and the words made me recall the Enron scandal. If you had no personal stake in energy stocks in the 90’s Enron may cause only a dim flicker of recognition. A quick reminder: “At the end of 2001, it was revealed that (Enron’s) reported financial condition was sustained substantially by institutionalized, systematic, and creatively planned accounting fraud, known as the 'Enron scandal'. Enron has since become a popular symbol of willful corporate fraud and corruption. The scandal also brought into question the accounting practices and activities of many corporations throughout the United States.”

The particular moment in the Enron scandal that came to my mind was of Ken Lay, CEO, who said as he was being led away, “I have made my peace with God.” It was this quote that came to mind as I read Ezekiel 33:10-17. Verses 12 & 13 specifically: “The righteous man, if he sins, will not be allowed to live because of his former righteousness.' 13 If I tell the righteous man that he will surely live, but then he trusts in his righteousness and does evil, none of the righteous things he has done will be remembered; he will die for the evil he has done.”

Ken Lay received many awards and honors for good work and yet one substantial charge against him was “assurances Lay gave, in the months leading up to Enron's fall, to employees about the company's financial health at the same time that he was quietly unloading his own Enron stock.”

Ken Lay is just a public example of how often we consider ourselves “good people” and yet knowingly and willingly do wrong. We are quick to justify our deeds; it’s a white sin it’s no big deal, it’s an acceptable sin. Justifications alone signal we need to check our actions.

I would never argue that Ken Lay did not make peace with God. Jesus Christ came to earth to offer forgiveness when we continue to do wrong, but a mature Christian is well aware that we are supposed to turn from evil, seek what is good, act in a Christ like manner. When we knowingly do wrong, what then?

The lesson is, as we mature in our Christian walk we are made more sensitive to the easy, culturally acceptable sins and we should begin to turn from them. As we mature, God increases our sense of right and wrong. The Health of Your Spiritual Heart makes sense to the maturing Christian.

We must be careful not to fall into the belief that “a white sin, a little wrong” will be okay. Ken Lay died of a heart attack before he was sentenced for his crimes. He discovered, likely much sooner than expected, whether he did, indeed, make peace with God. Even in the privacy of our heart the truth of our motivation is known. Ezekiel’s words should not fall on deaf ears.

Review-The Kingdom of God Is a Party

2010-09-18T18:34:00.000-07:00

It was instantly evident, as I read The Kingdom of God Is a Party, that Tony Campolo and I are kindred spirits. It would be no surprise that he and I share the same descriptors on any personality test. With that said those who are not kindred spirits will likely not agree with his comparisons and opposite personalities will likely be sharply critical.

Campolo introduces his premise by explaining that in order to communicate the gospel to the current generation, the words and imagery need to affect the current generation. Words and images need to come from their culture; where they live, what they do, how they communicate. He posits the word “party” is the word best used to describe God’s kingdom to the modern listener and reader.

His first essential point, which warrants closer inspection, yet flies in the face of long standing pulpit proclamation, is this: “Once a year, according to what Moses wrote in Deuteronomy 14, all the people of God were to bring one-tenth of all their earnings to the temple in Jerusalem. Imagine! One-tenth of Israel’s GNP! And it was not to be used for mission work. It was not to be used for charity. It was not to even be used to build an education annex onto the temple. It was to be used on a gigantic party. Here! See for yourself:” Deut. 14:22-29.

Campolo is quick to explain that the tenth is for the party but it also limits what we should spend on the party. The work of the kingdom is to be done with the remaining 90 percent. “The 90 percent is to be sanctified for the work God has called us to render as we join Him in establishing His kingdom here on earth.”

This concept is his hardest sell. If you buy into the first point, the remainder of the book reflects on the lack of “joy” expressed in the church body and how it should be, and can be, expressed at home and at work using the “party” image. Campolo doesn’t discount the trials and sufferings of life but points out we have reason to party because of the eventual triumph of God; Romans 8.

Campolo develops an interesting concept but Christians have a poor record for understanding the gift of salvation much less showing their joy over having accepted it. Unfortunately, I expect his call to arms will largely be ignored.

What I have taken from The Kingdom of God Is a Party is a re-evaluation of my “tithe” and a conviction of how much more I could/should be doing with what God has given me, for the kingdom. As well, those happy souls don’t need to apologize for any cheerfulness they exhibit. If the joy stems from our knowledge of Christ, and what he has done in our lives, we need to openly and joyfully exhibit that too.

Does your life reflect the joy of a life in Christ?

Breakfast Lovers . . . Ta Daa!

2010-09-14T19:41:00.000-07:00

During our Weight Watchers run, we discovered the next best thing to sliced bread; the Back to Basics toaster. This is a “must have” for anyone who loves breakfast. It cooks an egg, makes toast and will heat pre-cooked meat, all at the same time. You can fix an egg mcmuffin sandwich while you are brushing your teeth.

One of our favorites is a mini omelet; take a small amount of green pepper and onion, add a tablespoon of water and microwave for 30 seconds. Add an egg and whip. Pour into the Back to Basics egg pan having added the two tablespoons of water, add your bread, press the button for both egg and toast, and now go finish getting ready for the day.

This process is even faster if you dice your omelet items and pre-cook your bacon, sausage or breakfast meat so you can mix and go.

A soft yolk egg is also available by cracking the egg into the pan whole. The amount of water in the steamer will determine the softness of the yolk. Follow directions for your perfect egg.

The average price is $35 with the option of a double egg/4 slice model available.

This is a perfect gift for the college dorm room. Guarantee students start their day with a good breakfast, or sell breakfast sandwiches to the other residents for extra gas money.

If you are a fan of breakfast put this item on your Christmas list this year.