Ramblings of a Freckled Mom

Come and Worship!

2011-12-22T13:04:00.001-05:00

The True Meaning of Christmas

2011-12-15T13:43:00.001-05:00

Getting Older...

2011-11-08T10:11:00.002-05:00

If you can't read it, click on the image. It should open it up for you...enjoy!

Even in the Midst of This Trying Time...

2011-10-23T20:24:00.001-04:00

My family is going through a tough time...this song is my prayer. I want to praise Him in the good times and in the bad!

Silent Monks Singing Halleluia

2011-09-19T11:40:00.000-04:00

I've seen this before, but someone recently sent it to me again. I had to share it.
Very entertaining version!

Girls Vs. Boys - Tim Hawkins

2011-09-07T12:46:00.000-04:00

Being the mom of boys...I'd love to hear the perspective of moms of girls.

The Courageous Movie

2011-08-30T21:47:00.001-04:00

W atch the Casting Crowns Courageous Music Video

The movie comes out Sept. 30th. Can't wait!

Agnus Dei

2011-08-27T12:07:00.001-04:00

Enjoy...and be blessed!

Farmers Tribute: So God Made A Farmer.

2011-08-26T10:05:00.000-04:00

I dedicate this to my dad, nephew, uncles, grandfathers...and all those other men and women who toil day in and day out to feed us all.

Wacky Wednesday

2011-08-24T11:59:00.002-04:00

Pass the Bananas!

2011-08-13T20:17:00.002-04:00

Someone recently sent this article to me. If anyone has any more ideas to add, feel free to comment!

After reading this, you'll never look at a banana in the same way again.

Bananas contain three natural sugars - sucrose, fructose and glucose combined with fiber. A banana gives an instant, sustained and substantial boost of energy.

Research has proven that just two bananas provide enough energy for a strenuous 90-minute workout. No wonder the banana is the number one fruit with the world's leading athletes.

But energy isn't the only way a banana can help us keep fit. It can also help overcome or prevent a substantial number of illnesses and conditions, making it a must to add to our daily diet.

Depression: According to a recent survey undertaken by MIND amongst people suffering from depression, many felt much better after eating a banana. This is because bananas contain tryptophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin, known to make you relax, improve your mood and generally make you feel happier.

PMS: Forget the pills - eat a banana. The vitamin B6 it contains regulates blood glucose levels, which can affect your mood.

Anemia : High in iron, bananas can stimulate the production of hemoglobin in the blood and so helps in cases of anemia.

Blood Pressure: This unique tropical fruit is extremely high in potassium yet low in salt, making it perfect to beat blood pressure. So much so, the US Food and Drug Administration has just allowed the banana industry to make official claims for the fruit's ability to reduce the risk of blood pressure and stroke.

Brain Power: 200 students at a Twickenham (Middlesex) school ( England ) were helped through their exams this year by eating bananas at breakfast, break, and lunch in a bid to boost their brain power. Research has shown that the potassium-packed fruit can assist learning by making pupils more alert.

Constipation: High in fiber, including bananas in the diet can help restore normal bowel action, helping to overcome the problem without resorting to laxatives.

Hangovers: One of the quickest ways of curing a hangover is to make a banana milkshake, sweetened with honey.. The banana calms the stomach and, with the help of the honey, builds up depleted blood sugar levels, while the milk soothes and re-hydrates your system.
Heartburn: Bananas have a natural antacid effect in the body, so if you suffer from heartburn, try eating a banana for soothing relief.

Morning Sickness: Snacking on bananas between meals helps to keep blood sugar levels up and avoid morning sickness.

Mosquito bites: Before reaching for the insect bite cream, try rubbing the affected area with the inside of a banana skin. Many people find it amazingly successful at reducing swelling and irritation.

Nerves: Bananas are high in B vitamins that help calm the nervous system.

Overweight and at work? Studies at the Institute of Psychology in Austria found pressure at work leads to gorging on comfort food like chocolate and chips. Looking at 5,000 hospital patients, researchers found the most obese were more likely to be in high-pressure jobs. The report concluded that, to avoid panic-induced food cravings, we need to control our blood sugar levels by snacking on high carbohydrate foods every two hours to keep levels steady.

Ulcers: The banana is used as the dietary food against intestinal disorders because of its soft texture and smoothness. It is the only raw fruit that can be eaten without distress in over-chronicler cases. It also neutralizes over-acidity and reduces irritation by coating the lining of the stomach.

Temperature control: Many other cultures see bananas as a 'cooling' fruit that can lower both the physical and emotional temperature of expectant mothers. InThailand , for example, pregnant women eat bananas to ensure their baby is born with a cool temperature.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Bananas can help SAD sufferers because they contain the natural mood Enhancer tryptophan.

Smoking &Tobacco Use: Bananas can also help people trying to give up smoking. The B6, B12 they contain, as well as the potassium and magnesium found in them, help the body recover from the effects of nicotine withdrawal.

Stress: Potassium is a vital mineral, which helps normalize the heartbeat, sends oxygen to the brain and regulates your body's water balance... When we are stressed, our metabolic rate rises, thereby reducing our potassium levels. These can be rebalanced with the help of a high-potassium banana snack.

Strokes: According to research in The New England Journal of Medicine, eating bananas as part of a regular diet can cut the risk of death by strokes by as much as 40%!

Warts: Those keen on natural alternatives swear that if you want to kill off a wart, take a piece of banana skin and place it on the wart, with the yellow side out. Carefully hold the skin in place with a plaster or surgical tape!

So, a banana really is a natural remedy for many ills. When you compare it to an apple, it has four times the protein, twice the carbohydrate, three times the phosphorus, five times the vitamin A and iron, and twice the other vitamins and minerals. It is also rich in potassium and is one of the best value foods around So maybe it's time to change that well-known phrase so that we say, 'A banana a day keeps the doctor away!'

PS: Bananas must be the reason monkeys are so happy all the time! I will add one here; want a quick shine on our shoes?? Take the INSIDE of the banana skin, and rub directly on the shoe...polish with dry cloth.

Tim Hawkins in Short Songs

2011-08-04T19:21:00.000-04:00

This man's humor is somewhat warped...but hilarious!

A Little Humor for This Saturday

2011-07-30T12:06:00.003-04:00

If you've never seen Tim Hawkins, take time to check this out!

Old Rock Star Songs

A Life Lesson

2011-04-07T21:17:00.005-04:00

I realize that most of my posts on this blog are lighthearted. But this one, though quite serious, I couldn't NOT post. __________________________________________________________________ A worried woman went to her gynecologist and said: "Doctor, I have a serious problem and I need your help! My baby is not even one year old, and I am pregnant again. I don't want kids so close together." So the doctor said: "Okay. And what do you want me to do?" She said, "I want you to end my pregnancy, and I'm counting on your help with this." The doctor thought for a little while, and after some silence he said: "I think I have a better solution to your problem. It's less dangerous for you, too." She smiled, thinking that the doctor was going to accept her request. Then he continued, "You see, in order for you not to have to take care of two babies at the same time, let's kill the one in your arms. This way, you could rest some before the other one is born. If we're going to kill one of them, it doesn't matter which one it is. There would be no risk for your body if you chose the one in your arms." The lady was horrified and said: "No, doctor! How terrible! It's a crime to kill a child!" "I agree," the doctor replied, "but you seemed to be okay with it, so I thought maybe that was the best solution." The doctor smiled, realizing that he had made his point. There's no difference between killing a child that's already been born and one that is still in the womb. The crime is the same.

A Little St. Pat's Humor

2011-03-17T16:07:00.000-04:00

I'm Back...! With a recipe!

2011-02-06T19:11:00.001-05:00

A Midweek Chuckle

2010-03-17T11:38:00.001-04:00

2010-01-09T14:40:00.002-05:00

My belated Christmas gift to you, blogging friends!

This is an inspiring video, and very well done.

"Where's the Line to See Jesus?"

"Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." Philippians 2:9-11, NKJV

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T12:47:00.002-05:00

Enjoy this special video from YouTube. And have a wonderful, Christ-filled Christmas!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pPViKJRHyZo

Friday Feline

2009-11-20T16:12:00.002-05:00

Kitty wisdom to brighten your Friday! :o)

Via E-mail

2009-11-14T14:37:00.002-05:00

I thought this was toooo cute!

New Employee Policy

2009-09-05T14:13:00.003-04:00

My boss sent this to everyone in the office. Enjoy!

New employee policy...

If you wake up in the morning, and you look like this,

don't come to work!

.

Good Eats!

2009-08-04T10:44:00.004-04:00

I was going to post this on my other blog, but felt it was more appropriate for this one.

Last night, hubby offered to take our family out to dinner. Never one to turn down such an invitation, I suggested we go to Bob Evans.

When we arrived, the sign in the entryway showed all the new appetizers they offer. We decided to try the apple pie fries. Okay, friends. Apple pie fries are just too yummy! And what did they put in the little basket? (I say "little" only because just a few apple pie fries for a family of four is just not right!) There was a small dish of warm caramel dip in that little basket! Whew. Apple pie fries and warm caramel dip...too delish for words!

I have a new favorite!

One of My Latest Fave Songs

2009-07-21T11:47:00.002-04:00

Check out this YouTube link.
The Motions

New Pictures to Show Off!

2009-06-27T16:37:00.005-04:00

My great nephew and great niece. Aren't they precious????

Wow!

2009-06-10T15:53:00.002-04:00

My niece, Kate, did the pencil drawing (left) from the picture on the right. Isn't that amazing? Way to go, Kate!

Shameless Bragging

2009-05-23T11:41:00.007-04:00

Just a few cute pics of the youngest nephew...and his older siblings! (Thanks to the permission of my wonderful sister-in-law!)Isn't this priceless? Micah and his daddy!

Big sis, Rachel, got to be in "Beauty and the Beast!"
(Love those curls!)

And then...Miss Kierstyn also lost a tooth!

Aren't they beautiful kids??? I can't wait to see them in a couple of weeks! Many hugs from Aunt Joni!

If You Haven't Seen This One...

2009-05-20T15:34:00.004-04:00

I got this in an e-mail, then looked it up on YouTube. It started out as someone videotaping some boys who were skateboarding. Then...well, you'll see... Watch the air bag!!!

Do Not Hit Her!

Let me know what you think!

***SORRY ABOUT THAT! The link changed up on me! Try it again!***

A Modern-Day Parable

2009-05-04T16:46:00.001-04:00

My oldest son recently posted a piece about abortion on his blog. I am so proud of him!

Check it out here...

Letter to Tech Support

2009-03-23T21:04:00.002-04:00

I got this one in an e-mail. Very cute!

INSTALLING A HUSBAND*

Dear Tech support,

Last year I upgraded from Boyfriend 5.0 to Husband 1.0 and
Noticed a distinct slow-down in overall system performance,
Particularly in the flower and jewelry applications, which
Operated flawlessly under Boyfriend 5.0.

In addition, Husband 1.0 uninstalled many other valuable
Programs, such as Romance 9.5 and Personal Attention 6.5 and
then installed undesirable programs such as NBA 5.0, NFL 3.0
and Golf Clubs 4.1.

Conversation 8.0 no longer runs, and Housecleaning 2.6 simply
crashes the system. I've tried running Nagging 5.3 to fix these
Problems, but to no avail.

What can I do?

Signed, Desperate

DEAR DESPERATE,

First keep in mind, Boyfriend 5.0 is an Entertainment Package,
while Husband 1.0 is an operating system.

Please enter command: ithoughtyoulovedme.htm l and try to
download Tears 6.2 and don't forget to install the Guilt 3.0
update. If that application works as designed, Husband 1.0
should then automatically run the applications Jewelry 2.0 and
Flowers 3.5.

But remember, overuse of the above application can cause
Husband 1.0 to default to Grumpy Silence 2.5, Happy Hour 7.0 or
Beer 6.1. Please note that Beer 6.1 is a very bad program that
will download the Snoring Loudly Beta.

Whatever you do, DO NOT install Mother-In-Law 1.0 (it runs a
virus in the background that will eventually seize control of
all your system resources.)

Also do not attempt to reinstall Boyfriend 5.0 program. This is
an unsupported application and Husband 1.0 will cause it to crash.

In summary, Husband 1.0 is a great program, but it does have
limited memory and cannot learn new applications quickly. You
might consider buying additional software to improve memory and
performance. We recommend Cooking 3.0 and Hot Lingerie 7.7.

Good Luck,
Tech Support

Bathtub Meditations

2009-03-11T09:18:00.004-04:00

As I was hurriedly getting ready to get out the door this morning, I spent a few minutes in the tub (very few!) pondering some things. I'd like to share a little of that with you.

I was realizing that, as age continues to creep up on me, I have the biblical mandate from God to share some of what I've learned with women younger than myself. That's a daunting task, as I often feel I haven't learned much. Please feel free to click on my "comments" below and add some of your own!

~Most important of all...enjoy them while they're young. It sounds very cliche', but it's true: they grow up too fast. I now have a teenager. When did that happen? It seems that just yesterday he was a little tow-headed toddler, following me around the house, and incessantly quoting Veggie Tales videos.

~Potty training does not last forever! Really! It seems like an eternity when you're laundering another pair of messy underpants. But seriously, it does not last "to infinity, and beyond." As someone wiser than myself once said: on college applications, they do not ask what age the student was when they were potty trained!

~It's okay that you don't know all the answers to every question. What a relief!

~Shower them with love. Don't spoil them, but shower them with love. There's a big difference.

~As much as you love them and long for a close relationship, your object is not to be their best friend. You are their PARENT. That is the role God gave you.

~Along that same line, boundaries are tough to enforce, but are absolutely necessary. Stick to your guns, mom. Someday, they will actually appreciate it.

~Save special things. I have a file for each of my boys, with all sorts of special keepsakes. Funny pictures, special things they've written (even things written for punishment--quite humorous at times!), grade cards... Of course, we can't save everything. But certain things are definitely "keepers". One day, you can hand those over to them. They will cherish those items.

~Show your love for Christ by example. It's a fact of life that little ones are going to interrupt your quiet times with God, unless you are up in the wee hours of the night (and sometimes even then!). But you know what? Even when they interrupt that time, they are seeing your example. They know that Mommy is spending time with God, even when they are begging for a drink or another pbj.

~Enjoy a good bubble bath now and then. It's a sanity saver! (Or a good caramel macchiato, or whatever is a good getaway for you.)

~Listen to advice from older moms. Some of it, you'll use. Some of it, you can set aside for later. Some of it, you'll simply discard in the recycle bin of your mind. But listen to it all. Even the most overbearing advice-givers can give you gems of wisdom.

That's all for this post...I look forward to what others will add!

Judas Asparagus

2009-03-04T20:41:00.002-05:00

I'm not sure if a child did this, or some wisecracking adult. Either way, it's quite humorous!
Enjoy!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
A child was asked to write a book report on the entire Bible. I wonder how often we take for granted that children understand what we are teaching???

Through the eyes of a child: The Children's Bible in a Nutshell

In the beginning, which occurred near the start, there was nothing but God,
darkness, and some gas. The Bible says, 'The Lord thy God is one, but I
think He must be a lot older than that.
Anyway, God said, 'Give me a light!' and someone did.
Then God made the world.
He split the Adam and made Eve. Adam and Eve were naked, but they weren't
embarrassed because mirrors hadn't been invented yet.
Adam and Eve disobeyed God by eating one bad apple, so they were driven
from the Garden of Eden.....Not sure what they were driven in though,
because they didn't have cars.
Adam and Eve had a son, Cain, who hated his brother as long as he was Abel.
Pretty soon all of the early people died off, except for Methuselah, who
lived to be like a million or something.
One of the next important people was Noah, who was a good guy, but one of
his kids was kind of a Ham. Noah built a large boat and put his family and
some animals on it. He asked some other people to join him, but they said
they would have to take a rain check.
After Noah came Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Jacob was more famous than his
brother, Esau, because Esau sold Jacob his birthmark in exchange for some
pot roast. Jacob had a son named Joseph who wore a really loud sports coat.
Another important Bible guy is Moses, whose real name was Charlton Heston.
Moses led the Israel Lights out of Egypt and away from the evil Pharaoh
after God sent ten plagues on Pharaoh's people. These plagues included
frogs, mice, lice, bowels, and no cable.
God fed the Israel Lights every day with manicotti. Then he gave them His
Top Ten Commandments. These include: don't lie, cheat, smoke, dance, or
covet your neighbor's stuff.
Oh, yeah, I just thought of one more: Humor thy father and thy mother.
One of Moses' best helpers was Joshua who was the first Bible guy to use
spies. Joshua fought the battle of Geritol and the fence fell over on the
town.
After Joshua came David. He got to be king by killing a giant with a
slingshot. He had a son named Solomon who had about 300 wives and 500
porcupines. My teacher says he was wise, but that doesn't sound very wise
to me.
After Solomon there were a bunch of major league prophets. One of these was
Jonah, who was swallowed by a big whale and then barfed up on the shore.
There were also some minor league prophets, but I guess we don't have to
worry about them.
After the Old Testament came the New Testament. Jesus is the star of The
New. He was born in Bethlehem in a barn. (I wish I had been born in a
barn too, because my mom is always saying to me, 'Close the door! Were you
born in a barn?' It would be nice to say, 'As a matter of fact, I was.')
During His life, Jesus had many arguments with sinners like the Pharisees
and the Democrats.
Jesus also had twelve opossums.
The worst one was Judas Asparagus. Judas was so evil that they named a
terrible vegetable after him.
Jesus was a great man. He healed many leopards and even preached to some
Germans on the Mount.But the Democrats and all those guys put Jesus on trial before Pontius the
Pilot. Pilot didn't stick up for Jesus. He just washed his hands instead.
Anyways, Jesus died for our sins, then came back to life again. He went up
to Heaven but will be back at the end of the Aluminum. His return is
foretold in the book of Revolution.

Twelve Year Old Saves a Life!

2009-02-25T19:03:00.004-05:00

I know I said there would be "lighter" topics on this blog...and there usually are. But I had to post this for all to see. First, the story, then the link to the video. (I first saw the story on www.catholiconline.com)

Unborn Child Saved by 12-Year-Old's Pro-Life Presentation

By Kathleen Gilbert
2/19/2009

TORONTO (LifeSiteNews.com) - Though 12-year-old Lia's popular pro-life presentation did not win a regional speech competition last night, she and her family are celebrating what they call the "best trophy ever" - the saving of an unborn life, after Lia's words convinced a stranger not to abort her child.

A video of Lia's 5-minute speech, in which the sprightly and articulate 7th-grader gives a point-by-point argument against abortion, has attracted over 200,000 views on Youtube and a flurry of comments, in addition to increasing news media coverage.

Despite warnings that her pro-life message would disqualify her from the school competition, Lia's speech impressed both her pro-choice teacher and the school so deeply that she won the contest, despite a controversy that erupted in the judge's panel, which had at first disqualified her. Winning the school wide contest meant she would go on to compete at the regional level.

Lia's mother told Matt Lockett of the Moral Outcry blog that Lia presented the speech at the regional contest flawlessly, and though many testified to hers being the strongest speech, the family believed she likely lost because she spoke on the topic of abortion.

After learning she had lost the competition, Lia's mother wrote: "Lia wasn't really that upset though, especially when she considered that the only difference between winning the competition and not winning was having a couple extra pictures taken and being given a small trophy.

"Lia has a much bigger trophy - somebody commented to us on our YouTube account that her aunt watched Lia's video and decided to NOT have an abortion because of it. Yay God! Others have commented that they either never thought of the issue before or were pro-choice - but now they have changed their opinions. So, having a life saved is the best trophy ever!" wrote Lia's mother.

To view her actual speech, click on this link:

Here's the video

To read more on this, go to www.breakingchristiannews.com

I Owe It To My Mom...

2009-02-12T09:46:00.002-05:00

One of my sisters e-mailed this to me. I've seen some of them before, but thought it was worth posting here for your enjoyment.

01. TO APPRECIATE A JOB WELL DONE.
"If you're going to kill each other, do it outside. I just finished cleaning."
02. My mother taught me RELIGION.
"You better pray that will come out of the carpet."
03. My mother taught me about TIME TRAVEL.
"If you don't straighten up, I'm going to knock you into the middle of next week!"
04. My mother taught me LOGIC.
" Because I said so, that's why."

05. My mother taught me MORE LOGIC .
"If you fall out of that swing and break your neck, you're not going to the store with me."
06. My mother taught me FORESIGHT .
"Make sure you wear clean underwear, in case you're in an accident."
07. My mother taught me IRONY.
"Keep crying, and I'll give you something to cry about."
08. My mother taught me about the science of OSMOSIS.
"Shut your mouth and eat your supper."
09. My mother taught me about CONTORTION ISM.
"Will you look at that dirt on the back of your neck!"
10. My mother taught me about STAMINA.
"You'll sit there until all that spinach is gone."
11. My mother taught me about WEATHER.
"This room of yours looks as if a tornado went through it."

12. My mother taught me about HYPOCRISY .
"If I told you once, I've told you a million times. Don't exaggerate!"
13. My mother taught me the CIRCLE OF LIFE.
"I brought you into this world, and I can take you out."
14. My mother taught me about BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION.
"Stop acting like your father!"
15. My mother taught me about ENVY.
"There are millions of less fortunate children in this world who don't have wonderful
Parents like you do."
16. My mother taught me about ANTICIPATION.
"Just wait until we get home."
17. My mother taught me about RECEIVING.
"You are going to get it when you get home!"
18. My mother taught me MEDICAL SCIENCE.
"If you don't stop crossing your eyes, they are going to get stuck that way."
19. My mother taught me ESP.
"Put your sweater on; don't you think I know when you are cold?"
20. My mother taught me HUMOR.
"When that lawn mower cuts off your toes, don't come running to me."
21. My mother taught me HOW TO BECOME AN ADULT.
"If you don't eat your vegetables, you'll never grow up."
22. My mother taught me GENETICS.
"You're just like your father."

23. My mother taught me about my ROOTS .
"Shut that door behind you. Do you think you were born in a barn?"
24. My mother taught me WISDOM.
"When you get to be my age, you'll understand."
25. And my favorite: My mother taught me about JUSTICE.
"One day you'll have kids, and I hope they turn out just like you.

It's a ......???

2008-12-27T20:29:00.003-05:00

A group of first graders decided that for this year's pageant they would produce their very own Christmas program. They produced their own updated nativity story. All the major characters were there...Joseph, the shepherds, the angels, the wise men from afar...but where was Mary?

Shortly after the production began, there was heard some moaning and groaning coming from behind the bales of straw...Mary was in labor!

A first grader doctor with a white coat and black bag was ushered onto the stage and then disappeared with Joseph behind the bales of straw. After a few moments, the doctor emerged from behind the bales of straw with a jubilant smile on his face and holding a baby in his arms. With great drama in his presence, he solemnly announced in a loud voice, to the audience: "It's a GOD!"

Who says kids don't get the true meaning of Christmas???

Story taken from Mini Moments for Christmas by Robert Strand Copyright 1996

Invisible Mom

2008-12-11T11:28:00.002-05:00

A friend e-mailed the following to me. Thanks, Melissa...this is great!

Invisible Mother.....

It all began to make sense, the blank stares, the lack of response, the way one of the kids will walk into the room while I'm on the phone (or even on the toilet) and ask to be taken somewhere.
Inside I'm thinking, 'Can't you see I'm busy?' Obviously, not.
No one can see if I'm on the phone, or cooking, or sweeping the floor, or even standing on my head in the corner, because no one can see me at all.
I'm invisible. The invisible Mom . Some days I am only a pair of hands, nothing more: Can you fix this? Can you tie this? Can you open this?
Some days I'm not a pair of hands; I'm not even a human being. I'm a clock to ask, 'What time is it?' I'm a satellite guide to answer, 'What number is the Disney Channel?' I'm a taxi to order, 'Right around 5:30, please.'
I was certain that these were the hands that once held books and the eyes that studied history and the mind that graduated sum a cum laude - but now they had disappeared into the peanut butter, never to be seen again. She's going; she's going; she is gone! One night, a group of us were having dinner, celebrating the return of a friend from England .
Janice had just gotten back from a fabulous trip, and she was going on and on about the hotel she stayed in.
I was sitting there, looking around at the others all put together so well. It was hard not to compare and feel sorry for myself.
I was feeling pretty pathetic, when Janice turned to me with a beautifully wrapped package, and said, 'I brought you this.'
It was a book on the great cathedrals of Europe .
I wasn't exactly sure why she'd given it to me until I read her inscription: 'To Charlotte , with admiration for the greatness of what you are building when no one sees.'
In the days ahead I would read - no, devour - the book. And I would discover what would become for me, four life-changing truths, after which I could pattern my work.
No one can say who built the great cathedrals - we have no record of their names. These builders gave their whole lives for a work they would never see finished. They made great sacrifices and expected no credit. The passion of their building was fueled by their faith that the eyes of God saw everything.

A legendary story in the book told of a rich man who came to visit the cathedral while it was being built, and he saw a workman carving a tiny bird on the inside of a beam. He was puzzled and asked the man, 'Why are you spending so much time carving that bird into a beam that will be covered by the roof? No one will ever see it.' And the workman replied, 'Because God sees.'
I closed the book, feeling the missing piece fall into place.
It was almost as if I heard God whispering to me, 'I see you, Charlotte. I see the sacrifices you make every day, even when no one around you does. No act of kindness you've done, no sequin you've sewn on, no cupcake you've baked, is too small for me to notice and smile over. You are building a great cathedral, but you can't see right now what it will become.'
At times, my invisibility feels like an affliction. But it is not a disease that is erasing my life.
It is the cure for the disease of my own self-centeredness. It is the antidote to my strong, stubborn pride.
I keep the right perspective when I see myself as a great builder. As one of the people who show up at a job that they will never see finished, to work on something that their name will never be on.
The writer of the book went so far as to say that no cathedrals could ever be built in our lifetime because there are so few people willing to sacrifice to that degree.
When I really think about it, I don't want my son to tell the friend he's bringing home from college for Thanksgiving, 'My mom gets up at 4:00 in the morning and bakes homemade pies. Then she hand bastes a turkey for three hours and presses all the linens for the table.' That would mean I'd built a shrine or a monument to myself. I just want him to want to come home. And then, if there is anything more to say to his friend, to add, 'you're gonna love it there.'
As mothers, we are building great cathedrals. We cannot be seen if we're doing it right.
And one day, it is very possible that the world will marvel, not only at what we have built, but at the beauty that has been added to the world by the sacrifices of invisible women.
Great Job, MOM!

Hope this encourages you when the going gets tough as it sometimes does. We never know what our finished products will turn out to be because of our perseverance.

For My Dear Friend Linda

2008-11-30T09:11:00.003-05:00

In Nathan's memory...may God continue to heal the pain, dear friend.

PRAISE YOU IN THIS STORM (performed by Casting Crowns)

I was sure by now
That You would have reached down
And wiped our tears away
Stepped in and saved the day
But once again, I say "Amen", and it's still raining

As the thunder rolls
I barely hear Your whisper through the rain
"I'm with you"
And as You mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise the God who gives
And takes away

I'll praise You in this storm
And I will life my hands
For You are who You are
No matter where I am
Every tear I've cried
You hold in Your hand
You never left my side
And though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm

I remember when
I stumbled in the wind
You heard my cry
You raised me up again
My strength is almost gone
How can I carry on
If I can't find You

As the thunder rolls
I barely hear You whisper through the rain
"I'm with you"
And as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise the God who gives
And takes away

I lift my eyes unto the hills
Where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord
The Maker of Heaven and Earth

MUST-SEE MOVIE!

2008-10-11T11:10:00.000-04:00

To view the trailer, click here.

Found on the Internet

2008-10-04T10:50:00.002-04:00

While perusing websites that show how to type business letters (honing up on skills for my new job!), I found this on www.write101.com/W.Tips35.htm.

Enjoy! (True or not, it's humorous!)
______________________
Smithsonian Institute
The story behind the letter below is that there is an eccentric in Newport, Rhode Island named Scott Williams, who digs things out of his backyard and sends them to the Smithsonian Institute, labelling them with scientific names and insisting that they are actual archaeological finds.

Here's what is purported to be the actual response from the Smithsonian Institution. Bear this in mind next time you think you are challenged in your duty to respond to a difficult situation in writing.
*******************************
Smithsonian Institute
207 Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, DC 20078

Dear Mr. Williams:

Thank you for your latest submission to the Institute, labelled "93211-D,layer seven, next to the clothesline post...Hominid skull." We have given this specimen a careful and detailed examination, and regret to inform you that we disagree with your theory that it represents conclusive proof of the presence of Early Man in Charleston County two million years ago. Rather, it appears that what you have found is the head of a Barbie doll,of the variety that one of our staff, who has small children, believes to be "Malibu Barbie."

It is evident that you have given a great deal of thought to the analysis of this specimen, and you may be quite certain that those of us who are familiar with your prior work in the field were loathe to come to contradiction with your findings. However, we do feel that there are a number of physical attributes of the specimen, which might have tipped you off to its modern origin:

1. The material is moulded plastic. Ancient hominid remains are typically fossilised bone.

2. The cranial capacity of the specimen is approximately 9 cubic centimetres, well below the threshold of even the earliest identified proto-homonids.

3. The dentition pattern evident on the skull is more consistent with the common domesticated dog than it is with the ravenous man-eating Pliocene clams you speculate roamed the wetlands during that time.

This latter finding is certainly one of the most intriguing hypotheses you have submitted in your history with this institution, but the evidence seems to weigh rather heavily against it.Without going into too much detail, let us say that:

A. The specimen looks like the head of a Barbie doll that a dog has chewed on.

B. Clams don't have teeth.

It is with feelings tinged with melancholy that we must deny your request to have the specimen carbon-dated. This is partially due to the heavy load our lab must bear in its normal operation, and partly due to carbon dating's notorious inaccuracy in fossils of recent geologic record. To the best of our knowledge, no Barbie dolls were produced prior to 1956 AD, and carbon dating is likely to produce wildly inaccurate results.

Sadly, we must also deny your request that we approach the National Science Foundation Phylogeny Department with the concept of assigning your specimen the scientific name Australopithecus spiff-arino. Speaking personally, I, for one, fought tenaciously for the acceptance of your proposed taxonomy, but was ultimately voted down because the species name you selected was hyphenated, and didn't really sound like it might be Latin.

However, we gladly accept your generous donation of this fascinating specimen to the museum. While it is undoubtedly not a Hominid fossil, it is, nonetheless, yet another riveting example of the great body of work you seem to accumulate here so effortlessly.

You should know that our Director has reserved a special shelf in his own office for the display of the specimens you have previously submitted to the Institution, and the entire staff speculates daily on what you will happen upon next in your digs at the site you have discovered in your Newport back yard.

We eagerly anticipate your trip to our nation's capital that you proposed in your last letter, and several of us are pressing the Director to pay for it. We are particularly interested in hearing you expand on your theories surrounding the trans-positating fillifitation of ferrous ionsin a structural matrix that makes the excellent juvenile Tyrannosaurus rex femur you recently discovered take on the deceptive appearance of a rusty9-mm Sears Craftsman automotive crescent wrench.

Yours in Science,
Harvey Rowe, Chief Curator-Antiquities

First Day of School

2008-08-25T10:27:00.003-04:00

The boys are off to another year of school...wow. Isn't this supposed to get easier??? We home schooled for 5 years, before deciding to put them into our parish school last year. That was tough, but I survived. I thought it would be a breeze to let them go this year, having gone through this adjustment a year ago. How wrong I was! I'm fighting tears today, friends!

Love That Corn-on-the-Cob!

2008-08-20T16:46:00.002-04:00

A new pic of the great nephew to share!

In My Yard

2008-07-29T09:25:00.002-04:00

We saw one of these a couple of days ago...

That's a groundhog...or woodchuck, if you prefer. He was just out in the backyard have a late morning snack!

Maxine Says: Color Is Good!

2008-07-23T14:11:00.003-04:00

Yesterday I went to the doctor for my yearly physical.

My blood pressure was high, my cholesterol was high,

I'd gained some weight, and I didn't feel so hot.

My doctor said eating right doesn't have to be complicated

and it would solve my physical problems.

He said just think in colors.

Fill your plate with bright colors. greens, yellows, reds, etc.

I went right home and ate an entire bowl of:

And sure enough, I felt better immediately.

I never knew eating right could be so easy.

Four Worms and a Lesson

2008-06-10T15:11:00.003-04:00

A minister decided that a visual demonstration would add emphasis to his Sunday sermon.

Four worms were placed into four separate jars.
The first worm was put into a container of alcohol.
The second worm was put into a container of cigarette smoke.
The third worm was put into a container of chocolate syrup .
The fourth worm was put into a container of good clean soil.
At the conclusion of the sermon, the Minister reported the following results:

The first worm in alcohol - Dead.

The second worm in cigarette smoke - Dead

Third worm in chocolate syrup - Dead

Fourth worm in good clean soil - Alive.

So the Minister asked the congregation -
What can you learn from this demonstration?

Maxine was sitting in the back, quickly raised her hand and said,

'As long as you drink, smoke and eat chocolate, you won't have worms!'
That pretty much ended the service --

********************************

An interesting theory, anyway! :o)

The New "Do"

2008-05-29T15:15:00.001-04:00

Chapman Family Tragedy

2008-05-23T10:35:00.003-04:00

This article is from Christianity Today's website. Let us all join in prayer for this family.

STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN LOSES YOUNGEST DAUGHTER IN DRIVEWAY ACCIDENT
by Anne Thomas, Friday, May 23, 2008

Christians the world over have been expressing their sympathy for Grammy Award-winning singer Steven Curtis Chapman after his 5-year-old daughter was killed in an accident on the family’s driveway on Wednesday.

Maria Sue Chapman was the youngest of three Chinese girls adopted by Chapman and his wife, Mary Beth, after a visit to China awoke in them a deep love for the country and its people. She was hit by a car driven by one of her brothers on the driveway of the family home in Franklin Tennessee in what local authorities have described as a “tragic accident”.

The Chapmans have three biological children, two teenage sons Will Franklin and Caleb, and 21-year-old daughter Emily.

Brian DeVos, manager of Michigan operations for Bethany Christian Services and a family friend of the Chapmans, was quoted by Michigan News as saying, "They are loving and wonderful parents and a great family - they must be devastated. He's (Steven Curtis Chapman) been such an advocate for adoption - I know their commitment to kids."

Chapman and his wife have helped families adopt children through their charity Shaohannah’s Hope.

Chapman’s manager, Jim Houser, wrote in a message on the Shaohannah’s Hope website, “Your prayers are needed for all in the Chapman family. This is a family who has so generously loved and given to so many.

“Just hours before this close knit family was celebrating the engagement of the oldest daughter Emily Chapman, and were just hours away from a graduation party marking Caleb Chapman's completion of high school.

“Now, they are preparing to bury a child who blew out 5 candles on a birthday cake less than 10 days ago.

“These words are unthinkable to type. And yet we trust in a God who was not surprised by this and because of Jesus I am certain through faith in Him we will see Maria again.”

Local Christian music radio station WJQK-FM said it had opened up its phone lines and that people were calling in to pray on air for Maria and the family.

Everyday Remedies

2008-05-21T12:06:00.003-04:00

I get some really interesting things in my e-mail inbox. This was a gem!

1. AVOID CUTTING YOURSELF WHEN SLICING VEGETABLES BY GETTING SOMEONEELSE TO HOLD THE VEGETABLES WHILE YOU CHOP.

2. AVOID ARGUMENTS WITH THE FEMALES ABOUT LIFTING THE TOILET SEAT BY USING THE SINK. (Okay, so that one was a bit gross! No...a LOT gross!)

3. FOR HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE SUFFERERS ~ SIMPLY CUT YOURSELF AND BLEED FOR A FEW MINUTES, THUS REDUCING THE PRESSURE ON YOUR VEINS. REMEMBER TO USE A TIMER.

4. A MOUSE TRAP PLACED ON TOP OF YOUR ALARM CLOCK WILL PREVENT YOU FROM ROLLING OVER AND GOING BACK TO SLEEP AFTER YOU HIT THE SNOOZE BUTTON.

5. IF YOU HAVE A BAD COUGH, TAKE A LARGE DOSE OF LAXATIVES. THEN YOU'LL BE AFRAID TO COUGH.

6. YOU ONLY NEED TWO TOOLS IN LIFE - WD-40 AND DUCT TAPE. IF IT DOESN'T MOVE AND SHOULD, USE THE WD-40. IF IT SHOULDN'T MOVE AND DOES, USE THE DUCT TAPE.

7. IF YOU CAN'T FIX IT WITH A HAMMER, YOU'VE GOT AN ELECTRICAL PROBLEM.

DAILY THOUGHT: SOME PEOPLE ARE LIKE SLINKIES - NOT REALLY GOOD FOR ANYTHING BUT THEY BRING A SMILE TO YOUR FACE WHEN PUSHED DOWN THE STAIRS. (Wow! That's mean!)

Via My E-Mail...

2008-05-13T14:46:00.004-04:00

The New Survivor Series???

Six married men will be dropped on an island with one car and 3 kids each for six weeks.

Each kid will play two sports and either take music or dance classes.

There is no fast food.

Each man must take care of his 3 kids; keep his assigned house clean, correct all homework, and complete science projects, cook, do laundry, and pay a list of 'pretend' bills with not enough money.

In addition, each man will have to budget in money for groceries each week.

Each man must remember the birthdays of all their friends and relatives, and send cards out on time.

Each man must also take each child to a doctor's appointment, a dentist appointment and a haircut appointment.

He must make one unscheduled and inconvenient visit per child to the Urgent Care.

He must also make cookies or cupcakes for a social function.

Each man will be responsible for decorating his own assigned house, planting flowers outside and keeping it presentable at all times.

The men will only have access to television when the kids are asleep and all chores are done.

The men must shave their legs, wear makeup daily, adorn himself with jewelry, wear uncomfortable yet stylish shoes, keep fingernails polished and eyebrows groomed.

During one of the six weeks, the men will have to endure severe abdominal cramps, back aches, and have extreme, unexplained mood swings but never once complain or slow down from other duties.

They must attend weekly school meetings, church, and find time at least once to spend the afternoon at the park or a similar setting.

They will need to read a book and then pray with the children each night and in the morning, feed them, dress them, brush their teeth and comb their hair by 7:00 am.

A test will be given at the end of the six weeks, and each father will be required to know all of the following information: each child's birthday, height, weight, shoe size, clothes size and doctor's name. Also the child's weight at birth, length, time of birth, and length of labor, each child's favorite color, middle name, favorite snack, favorite song, favorite drink, favorite toy, biggest fear and what they want to be when they grow up.

The kids vote them off the island based on performance. The last man wins only if...he still has enough energy to be intimate with his spouse at a moment's notice.

If the last man does win, he can play the game over and over and over again for the next 18-25 years eventually earning the right To be called Mother!

After you get done laughing, link this to as many females as you think will get a kick out of it and as many men as you think can handle it.

Just don't send it back to me.... I'm going to bed!

________________________

As a post script...please, men, take no offense. I am quite well aware of the fact that there are many tasks that men tackle each and every day, and throughout the year, that I would have no knowledge, strength, or stomach to handle. I am thankful for my husband.

Still, you have to admit, this one was pretty funny, right????

Have to See It to Believe It

2008-05-10T15:28:00.004-04:00

A friend sent me the link to this video clip. The young man featured in the clip has autism, but has a great gift: a photographic memory beyond anything I have ever seen in my life. And artistic skills you will not believe!

Check it out here: The "Camera" Mind

.

From Reader's Digest...

2008-05-06T14:24:00.003-04:00

I happened to see this in the April issue of RD the other day. Just had to share it.
________________________

Every new senior class at our school brings with it a new senior prank. Recently, a group of students let three pigs loose inside the school. They were labeled Pig #1, Pig #2, and Pig #4. School officials quickly rounded up the three pigs but spent the rest of the day looking for Pig #3.

~Nicole Nietzel, Franklin, Massachusetts

Greensburg in the News Again

2008-04-30T10:19:00.003-04:00

As the one-year anniversary of the tornado approaches, Greensburg, KS, is once again in the news. The CBS Early Show is broadcasting from there all week long. The focus is mostly on how the town is rebuilding "green" (read: environmentally friendly). In fact, some of the guidelines that have been set down for their funding include requirements for just that.

But in between all the "how to build green" stories are stories of people who are rebuilding their lives. People who are strong and tenacious. Some of those people I've known all my life. If you see the "beautiful people" photos they cycle through, you'll see the face of one woman with dark hair and glasses. I know her as Sister Helwig. She was my Sunday school teacher when I was very young. You see, I grew up on a farm about 15-20 miles from Greensburg.

I shopped at the grocery store that is now a shell. I took piano lessons from two women whose homes were destroyed. (In one photo, I could see through the roof--which no longer existed--to the upstairs bedroom where I took guitar lessons from my piano teacher's daughter. This mother and daughter also happen to be the aunt and cousin of one of my brothers-in-law.) I went to 4-H fairs at the community building that is gone. I frequently walked on Main Street, and I sat through several bake sales and sat on several parade floats on that same street. (Anyone who is familiar with the Memorial Day weekend parade, art festival, etc. can relate!) I attended services and was married in a church building that is now marked only by an empty basement. (The new church building that was built in recent years was also destroyed, but they are rebuilding.)

As I watch the Early Show, I see the faces of school students who are the children and grandchildren of people I've known, well, since I can remember. I see the residents, and recognize familiar faces among them. I attended school in nearby Mullinville, but Greensburg is the hub of the community. It is so strange to see empy lots and rubble in the place of what "once was".

If you'd like to see photos, updates, or find out how you can help, the Early Show website has all that information. Also, my other blog, Thoughts Along the Journey, has links in the sidebar.

Thank you, Early Show, for keeping Greensburg in the news. They are rebuilding, but there's still a lot of work to do...

.

The Banana Test

2008-04-21T15:09:00.004-04:00

A friend sent this test to me. I thought some of my readers might enjoy the challenge.

There is a very, very tall coconut tree and there are 4 animals,
a Lion, a Chimpanzee, a Giraffe, and a Squirrel, who pass by.

They decide to compete to see who is the fastest to get a banana off the tree. Who do you guess will win?

Your answer will reflect your personality.

So think carefully . . .

Try and answer within 30 seconds

Got your answer?

Now scroll down to see the analysis.

If your answer is:

Lion = you're dull.

Chimpanzee = you're slow.

Giraffe = you're not all there.

Squirrel = you're just hopeless.

A COCONUT TREE DOESN'T HAVE BANANAS!!

Obviously you're stressed and overworked.

You should take some time off and relax!

For All My Home Schooling Friends

2008-04-16T13:14:00.005-04:00

A home school mom forwarded this to me. If you click on the title, it's a link to the original blog post. Very cute! Good job, Zak!

The Home School Kids Who Can't Do Anything (To the tune of "The Pirates Who Don't Do Anything)
by Zak G.

We are the homeschool kids who can’t do anything
We just stay at home and do our work
And if you ask us to do anything
We’ll just tell you
We can’t do anything.

Well, I can’t pass notes in math class
and I’ve never bought my school lunch
and I’ve never had my homework eaten by the family dog
and I’ve never had a hall pass
and I’ve never owned a locker
and I’ve never had detention after school.

We are the homeschool kids who can’t do anything
We just stay at home and do our work
And if you ask us to do anything
We’ll just tell you
We can’t do anything.

Well, I’ve never been suspended
and I’ve never missed the school bus
and I’ve never got a fat lip from the bully in the hall
and I’ve never seen the school nurse
and I’ve never slapped erasers
and I’ve never had detention after school.

We are the homeschool kids who can’t do anything
We just stay at home and do our work
And if you ask us to do anything
We’ll just tell you
We can’t do anything.

Well, I’ve never changed for P.E.
and I’ve never had a swirlie
and I’ve never had a teacher that I didn’t like at all
and I’ve never had supply lists
and I’ve never answered roll call
and I’ve never had detention after school.

We are the homeschool kids who can’t do anything
We just stay at home and do our work
And if you ask us to do anything
We’ll just tell you
We can’t do anything.

But we’ve often taken field trips
and we go to school in pjs
and we often do our work while sitting on our favorite couch
and we finish school by lunchtime
and we find our books on ebay
and we don’t have any homework after school!

President Bush to Visit Greensburg Again

2008-04-11T12:50:00.004-04:00

President Bush will be giving the commencement address at the graduation ceremony in Greensburg, KS, this year. The last time he visited the town was the week following the tornado. To read more about it, see the Hutch News article.

At Last, a New Picture!

2008-04-07T14:24:00.003-04:00

Just got this new pic of my favorite great nephew today. (There's another one on my other blog.)

Spring Break

2008-03-26T14:42:00.003-04:00

Did you know that Cancun is now considered passe'???

The spring break hot spot is now Greensburg, Kansas!

Check it out here.

AFLAC Scam :o)

2008-03-26T13:51:00.002-04:00

Watch out for this scam. Police say that the gang usually is comprised of four members, one adult and three younger ones. While the three younger ones, all appearing sweet and innocent, divert their 'mark' (or intended target) with a show of friendliness , the fourth -- the eldest -- sneaks in from behind the person's back to expertly rifle through his or her pockets and purses or bags for any valuables being carried.

The picture below captured on a surveillance camera shows the gang in operation.

Good Friday

2008-03-21T11:09:00.003-04:00

"...He said, 'It is finished'; and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit."

John 19:30b

Winter Bugs

2008-03-15T22:02:00.001-04:00

Sorry I haven't been about much the past few days. Some "bug" has had me down for the count. I'll be back when I get the best of it!

The Time Has Arrived!!!

2008-03-05T14:37:00.002-05:00

Laura Spradlin, who began "Rebuilding Greensburg--Block by Block" all those months ago, has set the official delivery date of the afghans. To refresh your memory, she contacted me soon after the Greensburg, KS, tornado to let me know of her project to collect afghan squares and make afghans to give to the victims of the tornado. She ended up getting way more than she had ever dreamed or imagined, and from all over the world!

For the official information on the "where" and "when" of it all, see her "Sugar Bunny Boulevard" blog.

Snow Can Be Humorous?!

2008-03-04T15:39:00.004-05:00

Ah, Snow Days!

2008-02-28T13:38:00.002-05:00

I am enjoying the quiet of my house today. It is peaceful here, with only the occasional buzzing of the dryer to remind me there are tasks to be done. I have a hot cup of tea awaiting me (if I remember to take the mug out of the microwave!). Why such bliss??? I have just survived two snow days!

You may wonder why it is such a big deal, since I used to home school my kids. We were together 24-7 in those days. But I did enjoy my occasional jaunts to Wal-Mart or a quiet space at a bookstore when my husband would let me just get out of the house on my own. Still, it was part of our routine, and it was fine.

Now that my kids have been in school since August, though, I really do notice the difference when they're both home all day. A couple of weeks ago, "Clyde" was sick for the entire week of school. When he went back to school after Presidents' Day, the house seemed almost tomb-like. This week, they were both home on Tuesday and Wednesday, due to the snow accumulations. I loved having them here. But I do have to admit that having the house to myself all day is really a nice thing, too! Especially since they really couldn't go out yesterday, because it was just too cold.

When I thought of sending the kids to school, I thought my entire existence would be about loneliness and too much quiet. Was I wrong! I found that a mom really does need some solitude once in awhile. However, I do admit there are days when I really miss having them here. But when I think about the benefits for them, it all equals out.

Still, I do love the occasional snow day!

___________________________________

By the way, if you want to share a great book about snowflakes and snowflake photography with your kids, check out the book Snowflake Bentley, by Jacqueline Briggs Martin. There is also a Snowflake Bentley website.

Let's Chat

2008-02-19T11:49:00.002-05:00

I haven't just "chatted" with my readers for awhile. So, pull up a chair and a hot cup of coffee, and we'll get started!

Speaking of coffee...I'm not a big coffee drinker. I like the occasional "cup of joe." I really, really like a good Caramel Machiatto (sp?) at Starbucks. But, alas, I have to have decaf. Caffeine does bad things to my system, and my sleep. My in-laws gave me a new coffee maker for my birthday. My wonderful hubby bought me a chocolate truffle coffee, which I am enjoying immensely. I did find this interesting article on the health benefits on coffee, for those of you who just have to have that first cup of coffee to get your day going.

Last week was a looong week. I know they all have seven days. But last week's seven days felt a bit more like seventeen or more. The week began with Harry's birthday. But then the kids both got sick. A trip to the dr., and we thought we were good to go. Harry actually missed only one day of school. Clyde, on the other hand, just couldn't get rid of the fever. By Thursday, we knew he needed something different. The dr. had to go with a different antibiotic. Finally, on Friday, he was starting to perk up a little. I just hate it when my kids are sick, though. Listening to them cough those horrible, hacking coughs just breaks my heart. I was happy to be able to send them back to school today, knowing they were both feeling much, much better. (They had Presidents' Day off yesterday, too.)

It is cold in our part of the country. Last week, the kids had a day off school because the windchill was -15 to -20, depending on how hard the wind was gusting at the particular moment. We've had more snow over the past couple of weeks, too. It certainly feels like winter! I'm not a big winter person. I think snow is pretty, and I know it's necessary for putting nutrients into the soil, protecting crops, etc. But I sure hate the cold winds. I love spring, summer, and fall. I miss being able to go out and take a walk without losing the feeling in my fingers, toes, nose, ears, etc.!

As I mentioned before, Lent has begun. If any of you have any great ideas for some meatless dishes, please pass them along! We try not to eat too much fish, as we get tired of it rather quickly. Other than that, I just try to find things that taste okay if the meat is omitted. My family is pretty much a "meat and potatoes" crew, so that doesn't help.

I am contemplating trying to make an afghan. I am not good at just sitting and doing handwork. I like to be up and about, getting things done. (Okay, I realize sitting at the computer is an exception to that rule. But crocheting really does bore me. I get too fidgety.) We'll see if I actually follow through. Once the wamer weather starts, I know I won't have any interest in staying inside the house to crochet. I'll want to be out planting flowers, taking a walk, or just enjoying listening to the birds.

Well, I guess that's enough rambling for now. I just thought an original post now and then would be nice, rather than always posting funny/interesting/thought-provoking items I have received via e-mail.

Have a great week!

P.S. Is anyone else having trouble with Blogger's spellcheck? I can't get it to work at all.

A Plug for the Diva

2008-02-16T19:43:00.000-05:00

Mair, over at Ragamuffin Diva, is going to be doing a book signing in Michigan on February 20, at this bookstore:

Barnes and Noble Booksellers

Fairlane Green

3120 Fairlane Dr.

Allen Park, MI 48101

(313)271-0688

So for any of my readers who are interested, more information can be found at the link above, or you can call the bookstore. If you go, be sure to tell her a big "HI!!!" from Joni!!!!

Out of the Mouths of Babes

2008-02-15T15:04:00.004-05:00

I know we've all received these in e-mails. I hadn't read all of them before, though. Worth a good Friday laugh, for sure.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

STORY OF ELIJAH
The Sunday school teacher was carefully explaining the story of Elijah 
the Prophet and the false prophets of Baal. She explained how Elijah
built the altar, put wood upon it, cut the steer in pieces, and laid it upon
the altar.   And then, Elijah commanded the people of God to fill four
barrels of water and pour it over the altar   He had them do this 
four times. 

"Now, said the teacher, "can anyone in the class tell me why the Lord
would have Elijah pour water over the  steer on the altar?"

A little girl in the back of the room started waving her hand, "I know! 
I know!"  she said, "To make the gravy!"

________________________
LOT'S WIFE

The Sunday School teacher was describing how Lot's wife looked back
and turned into a pillar of salt, when little Jason interrupted, "My Mummy
looked back once, while she was driving," he announced triumphantly, 
"and she turned into a telephone pole!"

_________________
GOOD SAMARITAN

A Sunday school teacher was telling her class the story of the Good 
Samaritan, in which a man was beaten, robbed and left for dead. She
described the situation in vivid detail so her students would catch the drama.
Then, she asked the class, "If you saw a person lying on the roadside, all
wounded and bleeding, what would you do?"
A thoughtful little girl broke the hushed silence, "I think I'd throw up."

________________
DID NOAH FISH?

A Sunday school teacher asked, "Johnny, do you think
Noah did a lot of fishing when he was on the Ark ?"
"No," replied David. "How could he, with just two worms?"

________________
HIGHER POWER

A Sunday school teacher said to her children, " We have been
learning how powerful kings and queens were in Bible times.
But, there is a higher power. Can anybody tell me what it is?"
One child blurted out, "Aces!"

____________________
MOSES &THE RED SEA

Nine-year-old Joey, was asked by his mother what he had learned in 
Sunday school.
"Well, Mom, our teacher told us how God sent Moses  behind enemy
lines on a rescue mission to lead the  Israelites out of Egypt . When
he got to the Red Sea , he had his army build a pontoon bridge and
all the people walked across safely. Then, he radioed headquarters for
reinforcements. They sent bombers to blow up the bridge and all the
Israelites were saved."
"Now, Joey, is that really what your teacher taught you?"
his mother asked.
"Well, no, Mom. But, if I told it the way the teacher did, you'd never
believe it!"

____________________
THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD

A Sunday School teacher decided to have her young class
memorize one of  the most quoted passages  in the Bible: Psalm 23. 
She gave the youngsters a month to learn the verse.   Little Rick
was excited about  the task -- but, he just couldn't remember the Psalm.  
After much practice, he could barely get past the first line.
On the day that the kids were scheduled to recite Psalm 23 in front
of the congregation, Ricky was so nervous.

When it was his turn, he stepped up to the microphone and said proudly, 
"The Lord is my Shepherd, and that's all I need to know."

___________________
Church Smiles

There was a very gracious lady who was mailing an old family Bible
to her brother in another part of the country.
"Is there anything breakable in here?" asked the postal clerk.
"Only the Ten Commandments," answered the lady.

_____________________
AMISH BUMPER STICKER

While driving in Pennsylvania , a family caught up to
an Amish carriage. The owner of the carriage obviously
had a sense of humor, because attached to the back
of the carriage was a hand-printed sign...
 
"Energy efficient vehicle: Runs on oats and grass.
Caution: Do not step in exhaust.''

____________________
SUNDAY SCHOOL MESSAGE

Sunday after church, a Mom asked her very young daughter
what the lesson was about.
The daughter answered, "Don't be scared, you'll get your quilt."
Needless to say, the Mom was perplexed. Later in the day,
the pastor stopped by for tea and the Mom asked him what that
morning's Sunday school lesson was about.
He said "Be not afraid, thy Comforter is coming."

Short Hiatus

2008-02-14T19:16:00.001-05:00

Sorry I haven't been around this week. Sick kiddos...

A Nice Cup of Tea

2008-02-11T15:30:00.001-05:00

Someone e-mailed this little story to me. Quite cute!

One day my mother was out and my dad was in charge of me and my brother who is four years older than I am. I was maybe one and a half years old and had just recovered from an accident in which my arm had been broken among other injuries.

Someone had given me a little 'tea set' as a get-well gift and it was one of my favorite toys. Daddy was in the living room engrossed in the evening news and my brother was playing nearby in the living room when I brought Daddy a little cup of 'tea,' which was just water. After several cups of tea and lots of praise for such yummy tea, my Mom came home.

My Dad made her wait in the living room to watch me bring him a cup of tea, because it was 'just the cutest thing!' My Mom waited, and sure enough, here I came down the hall with a cup of tea for Daddy. She watched him drink it up, then said, 'Did it ever occur to you that the only place that baby can reach to get water is the toilet?'

What's a Mom to Do?

2008-02-09T22:04:00.000-05:00

I'm feeling very old just now. My oldest son, "Harry," is turning 12 tomorrow.

That may not sound so bad to those of you who have teens or grown children. Keep in mind, though, that I had been married for over 6 1/2 years before Harry came along. And now he will be 12. Where does the time go???

Anyway, I love you bunches, son. I am so thankful to God for you. You are an amazing blessing to your dad and me.

To All My Christian Sisters...

2008-02-07T14:16:00.002-05:00

A special friend e-mailed this poem to me. Enjoy!
(As an additional note...a reader named Jan let me know that Mayou Angelou did not write the poem I had first posted. It was written by Ms. Wimmer, and some of the lines had been changed. I have re-printed it with the correct words here, and credit is given to the true author! Thanks, Jan!)

WHEN I SAY, "I AM A CHRISTIAN"
When I say, "I am a Christian," I'm not shouting, "I've been saved!"
I'm whispering, "I get lost! That's why I chose this way"

When I say, "I am a Christian," I don't speak with human pride
I'm confessing that I stumble-needing God to be my guide

When I say, "I am a Christian," I'm not trying to be strong
I'm professing that I'm weak and pray for strength to carry on

When I say, "I am a Christian," I'm not bragging of success
I'm admitting that I've failed and cannot ever pay the debt

When I say, "I am a Christian," I don't think I know it all
I submit to my confusion asking humbly to be taught

When I say, "I am a Christian," I'm not claiming to be perfect
My flaws are far too visible but God believes I'm worth it

When I say, "I am a Christian," I still feel the sting of pain
I have my share of heartache which is why I seek His name

When I say, "I am a Christian," I do not wish to judge
I have no authority--I only know I'm loved

Copyright 1988 Carol Wimmer

Some "Fat Tuesday" History

2008-02-05T09:25:00.000-05:00

Pictured above is a paczki (pron. "poonch-key"), a wonderful Polish treat often eaten on Fat Tuesday. I had a chocolate mousse filled one this morning, and it was YUMMY! To learn more about paczki, see this website.

Now for a little history:

Mardi Gras, literally "Fat Tuesday," has grown in popularity in recent years as a raucous, sometimes hedonistic event. But its roots lie in the Christian calendar, as the "last hurrah" before Lent begins on Ash Wednesday. That's why the enormous party in New Orleans, for example, ends abruptly at midnight on Tuesday, with battalions of streetsweepers pushing the crowds out of the French Quarter towards home.

What is less known about Mardi Gras is its relation to the Christmas season, through the ordinary-time interlude known in many Catholic cultures as Carnival. (Ordinary time, in the Christian calendar, refers to the normal "ordering" of time outside of the Advent/Christmas or Lent/Easter seasons.

Carnival comes from the Latin words carne vale, meaning "farewell to the flesh." Like many Catholic holidays and seasonal celebrations, it likely has its roots in pre-Christian traditions based on the seasons. Some believe the festival represented the few days added to the lunar calendar to make it coincide with the solar calendar; since these days were outside the calendar, rules and customs were not obeyed. Others see it as a late-winter celebration designed to welcome the coming spring. As early as the middle of the second century, the Romans observed a Fast of 40 Days, which was preceded by a brief season of feasting, costumes and merrymaking.

The Carnival season kicks off with the Epiphany, also known as Twelfth Night, Three Kings' Day and, in the Eastern churches, Theophany. Epiphany, which falls on January 6, 12 days after Christmas, celebrates the visit of the Wise Men bearing gifts for the infant Jesus. In cultures that celebrate Carnival, Epiphany kicks off a series of parties leading up to Mardi Gras.

Epiphany is also traditionally when celebrants serve King's Cake, a custom that began in France in the 12th century. Legend has it that the cakes were made in a circle to represent the circular routes that the Wise Men took to find Jesus, in order to confuse King Herod and foil his plans of killing the Christ Child. In the early days, a coin or bean was hidden inside the cake, and whoever found the item was said to have good luck in the coming year. In Louisiana, bakers now put a small baby, representing the Christ Child, in the cake; the recipient is then expected to host the next King Cake party.

There are well-known season-long Carnival celebrations in Europe and Latin America, including Nice, France; Cologne, Germany; and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The best-known celebration in the U.S. is in New Orleans and the French-Catholic communities of the Gulf Coast. Mardi Gras came to the New World in 1699, when a French explorer arrived at the Mississippi River, about 60 miles south of present day New Orleans. He named the spot Point du Mardi Gras because he knew the holiday was being celebrated in his native country that day.

Eventually the French in New Orleans celebrated Mardi Gras with masked balls and parties, until the Spanish government took over in the mid-1700s and banned the celebrations. The ban continued even after the U.S. government acquired the land but the celebrations resumed in 1827. The official colors of Mardi Gras, with their roots in Catholicism, were chosen 10 years later: purple, a symbol of justice; green, representing faith; and gold, to signify power.

Mardi Gras literally means "Fat Tuesday" in French. The name comes from the tradition of slaughtering and feasting upon a fattened calf on the last day of Carnival. The day is also known as Shrove Tuesday (from "to shrive," or hear confessions), Pancake Tuesday and fetter Dienstag. The custom of making pancakes comes from the need to use up fat, eggs and dairy before the fasting and abstinence of Lent begins.

Politics as Usual

2008-02-02T10:44:00.000-05:00

I received this in an e-mail, and had to share it! Along that same line, check this out.

Must-See Movie

2008-01-29T15:06:00.000-05:00

If you're tired of going to "kid friendly" movies, only to find the movie isn't really that "kid friendly"....in the words of Bob the Tomato: "Have we got a show for you!"

I took the kiddos to see the newest Veggie flick yesterday. There are only a limited number of theaters showing it. We had to squeeze in a matinee, and were fortunate to see the last showing of it. What a treat!

There is plenty of pirate action, adventure, damsel in distress, etc. Many life lessons. And, of course, the usual Veggie humor we have all come to know and love.

The best lesson of the movie is that the "king" gives us everything we need for the adventure. The characters never used the word "God" or quoted Scripture. But the message was clear: God gives us all everything we need for this adventure we call life.

Nary an objectionable element. Zilch. Nothing. Nada. All good, clean fun. The pirates even drink root beer! The swashbuckling is tame and silly. The monsters, well, let's just say they aren't always all they appear to be.

Definitely a thumbs-up from this movie goer!

My only regret? Our popcorn was gone before the movie even began!

No new post

2008-01-25T18:26:00.000-05:00

See my other blog for today's post.

A Quick Monday Note

2008-01-21T14:28:00.000-05:00

It is cold, cold, cold in our part of the country! When the windchill is below zero, that is time for me to be inside, for sure. I have a cold, too, so a warm, fuzzy blanket and a cup of hot chocolate are just the ticket!

I wanted to share the latest family news. I'm going to be an aunt again! Our sister-in-law is expecting baby #3 in late August. Hurray!

Happy Birthday to Me!

2008-01-11T15:41:00.000-05:00

No big post here...just congratulating myself on surviving another year! :o)

Check my other blog for today's post.

Indian Winter

2008-01-10T09:53:00.000-05:00

IT WAS ALREADY LATE FALL AND THE INDIANS ON A REMOTE RESERVATION IN SOUTH DAKOTA ASKED THEIR NEW CHIEF IF THE COMING WINTER WAS GOING TO BE COLD OR MILD.

SINCE HE WAS A CHIEF IN A MODERN SOCIETY HE HAD NEVER BEEN TAUGHT THE OLD SECRETS. WHEN HE LOOKED AT THE SKY HE COULDN'T TELL WHAT THE WINTER WAS GOING TO BE LIKE. NEVERTHELESS, TO BE ON THE SAFE SIDE, HE TOLD HIS TRIBE THAT THE WINTER WAS INDEED GOING TO BE COLD AND THAT THE MEMBERS OF THE VILLAGE SHOULD COLLECT FIREWOOD TO BE PREPARED.

BUT BEING A PRACTICAL LEADER, AFTER SEVERAL DAYS HE GOT AN IDEA. HE WENT TO THE PHONE BOOTH, CALLED THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE AND ASKED, "IS THE COMING WINTER GOING TO BE COLD?"

"IT LOOKS LIKE THIS WINTER IS GOING TO BE QUITE COLD," THE METEOROLOGIST AT THE WEATHER SERVICE RESPONDED.

SO THE CHIEF WENT BACK TO HIS PEOPLE AND TOLD THEM TO COLLECT EVEN MORE FIREWOOD IN ORDER T O BE PREPARED.

A WEEK LATER HE CALLED THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE AGAIN. "DOES IT STILL LOOK LIKE IT IS GOING TO BE A VERY COLD WINTER?"

"YES," THE MAN AT NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE AGAIN REPLIED, "IT'S GOING TO BE A VERY COLD WINTER."

THE CHIEF AGAIN WENT BACK TO HIS PEOPLE AND ORDERED THEM TO COLLECT EVERY SCRAP OF FIREWOOD THEY COULD FIND.

TWO WEEKS LATER THE CHIEF CALLED THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE AGAIN. "ARE YOU ABSOLUTELY SURE THAT THE WINTER IS GOING TO BE VERY COLD?"

"ABSOLUTELY," THE MAN REPLIED. "IT'S LOOKING MORE AND MORE LIKE IT IS GOING TO BE ONE OF THE COLDEST WINTERS WE'VE EVER SEEN."

"HOW CAN YOU BE SO SURE?" THE CHIEF ASKED.

THE WEATHERMAN REPLIED, "THE INDIANS ARE COLLECTING FIREWOOD LIKE CRAZY."

Healthy New Year, Part 5

2008-01-04T11:08:00.000-05:00

Office Equipment

Office phones typically have more than 25,000 germs per square inch. Your desk, your keyboard, and your mouse aren't that much cleaner. (As she typed on her keyboard and cringed...) Phones, including cell phones, get coated with germs from your mouth and hands.

Ways to reduce the risk:

--Cleaning your desk, phone, and keyboard with a disinfecting wipe once in the middle of the day can rid yourself of 99.99% of the bacteria and viruses.

And one last tip I came up with on my own....

There are times when an individual must sit on a public toilet seat, no matter how much it grosses us out. Carry a small, purse-sized bottled of hand sanitizer in your purse. Place a generous amount of sanitizer on the toilet seat, then wipe it clean with toilet tissue. The alcohol in the sanitizer will kill lots of those "nasties" before you place your derriere in harm's way!

Anyone else have any healthy hints???

Commercial Break

2008-01-03T14:51:00.001-05:00

I'm taking a short break in my "healthy habits" series to let you know about a really cute website. The name of it is, "Being Five." The blogger runs his own little comic strips on it. This is one you can share with your kids, too. Definitely a good one to add as a link.

Check it out here.

Healthy New Year, Part 4

2008-01-03T10:01:00.000-05:00

Your handbag

Recent studies found that most women's purses have tens of thousands of bacteria on the bottom. A few handbags were overrun with millions of bacteria. Germs causing eye infections and skin infections were found on women's handbags.

Ways to reduce the risk:

--Instead of slinging your purse on the floor, hang it on a hook whenever possible--especially in public bathrooms.

--Don't place your bag on the kitchen counter. (I would add the dining room table to this, too!)

--Stick with leather or vinyl purses, which are typically cleaner than cloth.

And tomorrow...last (but certainly not least)...office equipment.

Healthy New Year, Part 3

2008-01-02T14:23:00.000-05:00

The Bathtub

A recent study found staphylococcus bacteria, a common cause of serious skin infections, in 26% of bathtubs tested, as compared with just 6% of garbage cans. Bathtubs had more than 100,000 bacteria per square inch. You're washing germs and viruses off your body. Since the tub is a fairly moist environment, it's an ideal place for bacteria to grow.

Ways to reduce the risk:

--Once a week, apply a disinfecting cleaner to the tub and actually scrub the tub.

--Then you need to wash the germs down the drain with water and dry the tub with a clean towel. If you leave the tub wet, germs are more likely to survive.

--If someone who has a skin infection uses the tub, scrub it afterward with a solution of 2 tablespoons bleach in one quart of water.

Next installment: Your handbag!

Healthy New Year, Part 2

2008-01-01T20:32:00.000-05:00

Second set of health tips...

Wet Laundry

Any time you transfer underwear from the washer to the dryer, you may be getting E. coli on your hands. One dirty undergarment in the washer can spread to the whole load and the machine.

Ways to reduce the risk:

-Run washing machines at 150 degrees (you can check the temperature of your washing machine water with a candy thermometer--before adding the clothes!) and wash whites with bleach (not the color-safe type; it doesn't pack the same punch), which can kill 99.9% of germs.

-Transfer wet laundry to the dryer quickly so germs don't multiply.

-Wash underwear separately (there's about a gram of feces in every pair of dirty underwear) and dry them for a minimum of 45 minutes.

-Wash your hands thoroughly after handling dirty laundry.

Tune in next time for...the bathtub! :o)

Have a Healthy New Year!

2007-12-31T11:36:00.001-05:00

One of our local hospitals ran an article in our weekend paper regarding ways to stay healthy this winter. I won't try to put it all in one post, but here is the first installment. And have a happy New Year!

Kitchen sink--
Studies have shown that kitchen sinks are dirtier than most bathrooms. There are approximately 500,000 or more bacteria per square inch in the drain alone. Plus the sponge, the basin, and the faucet handles are also crawling with bacteria.

Ways to reduce the risk:

-Clean your kitchen counters and sink with antibacterial products after preparing or cleansing food, which carry lots of potential pathogens like salmonella, campylobacter, and E. coli.

-Wash your hands well with warm, soapy water for 20 seconds (long enough to sing, "Happy Birthday").

-Sanitize sponges by running them through the dishwasher's drying cycle, which will kill 99.9% of the bacteria. (If you don't have a dishwasher, microwaving the sponge for 1 minute on high can also sanitize it. Washing regularly in the laundry and drying it might help, but many sponges can't be run through a dryer.)

-As for the sink, clean it twice a week with a solution of one tablespoon chlorine bleach and one quart of water. Scrub the basin, and then pour the solution down the drain.

Tune in next time for my installment on Wet Laundry!

The Reason for the Season

2007-12-23T19:21:00.000-05:00

"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government will be upon his shoulder, and his name will be called 'Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.' "

~Isaiah 9:6

A Marriage Prayer

2007-12-14T14:17:00.000-05:00

For about 18 years now, I have carried a card (in my Bible) with the following prayer. I wanted to share it with my readers today.

Lord,
help us to remember
when we first met
and the strong love
that grew between us.
Help us to work that love
into practical things
so nothing can divide us.
We aks for words
both kind and loving,
and for hearts always ready
to ask forgiveness
as well as to forgive.
Dear Lord, we put our marriage
into Your hands.
Amen.
~Author Unknown

A Northerner's Fund Raiser

2007-12-10T14:54:00.000-05:00

Some Christmas Cheer

2007-12-08T12:11:00.000-05:00

Just So You Know...

2007-12-03T14:59:00.001-05:00

I'm taking a short hiatus from blogging.

God bless.

Where, Oh Where?

2007-11-30T09:39:00.001-05:00

I'm not lost. I just haven't had time for blogging lately.

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving Traditions

2007-11-19T15:20:00.000-05:00

We have annual Thanksgiving traditions in our family:

--drive to Michigan

--the guys have to play the family football game, whether it's snowing, or sunny, or whatever...

--the gals have to prepare the feast, complete with turkey, stuffing, rutabaga, pumpkin pie, cranberry sauce, corn, peas (and other veggies), bread rolls, sweet potato casserole, the jello dessert, banana cream pie, probably apple pie, mashed potatoes...and whatever we can think of that we may have missed in all that!

--watch the Detroit Lions (usually they get beat, but we can always hope!)

--eat leftovers for supper

Thankfully, this year, we don't have to rush back home.

Tell me about your traditions!

Have a Good Weekend!

2007-11-16T15:12:00.000-05:00

True Beauty

2007-11-13T11:23:00.000-05:00

The following essay was written by my cousin's 14 year old daughter. I have posted it on both my blogs, as I didn't want any of my readers to miss it. (The author's name has been withheld by request.)
****************************************

Letter About Beauty

I hate it when the girls show off their bodies. They show off all of their legs, as in, if their shorts went any shorter they’d be wearing underwear. I guess they think they’d be accepted if they wear basically nothing. It bothers me that their shirts are like bras; it shows all of their stomach and a lot of their chest. What’s with this? It drives me insane! Why can’t they be modest for once? Why do their parents even let them wear this stuff anyway? Why do they even make those clothes in the first place? Who came up with that? Why does everyone strive to be “beautiful”? Why do we all want to be skinny? Yeah, everyone does think about being beautiful and skinny. Even beautiful, skinny girls think that they’re not skinny or pretty enough. What’s with “Oh I wish I had her clothes”, or “Why can’t I get into a size 0 like she can?” Or even “Oh I love her hair! I wish I had her hair.” Or “She always gets the hottest guys, why doesn’t any good looking guy want to go out with me?”? I hate that! But yet, I do that too, just like you do. So this is why I’m writing this to you. I’m going to try to stand up against those lies. You are beautiful, I’m beautiful, she’s beautiful, we are all beautiful. Even when we grow older and the outside appearance may not be as beautiful as it used to be, lets make sure that we’re always modest, and that our inside is beautiful. There are some girls out there who have the most beautiful outward appearance, but inside is the most hideous person on the face of the earth, just by her attitude and her thoughts. We need to be confidant in ourselves. Girls, we need to remember to not show off our bodies so those guys can see it, just wait for your husband, only he should see that. I love the way Emily Downs puts it in an article in Focus On The Family’s teenage girl’s magazine, Brio, she says that “As females, we need to stop putting so much of our worth in outward appearance. Our Lord created humans in His image, not just the thin, perfect-looking people, but every one of us in all our shapes and sizes. God doesn’t see beauty the way today’s media do. He created tiny girls and curvy girls.” God did create us. He doesn’t make junk. He made you the way you are; he made me the way I am. Even the models are not as thin as the pictures in the magazine. They use computers to fix up their hair, eyes, their size, they get rid of their zits, they make their boobs bigger, or their legs more tan, or they get rid of the spot that they missed when they shaved. No one is perfect.

We don’t need to show off our bodies to be beautiful, in fact that’s just disgusting!

We don’t need to have perfect hair; we don’t need to be a size 0. We just need to be ourselves. Proverbs 31:30 says “Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.” Also Psalms 139:14 says “…I am fearfully and wonderfully made…” The bible says that we are created in God’s image! If you think that you’re ugly, and not good enough, that’s just like insulting God because he made us like this! So think positive, be modest, and most importantly of all, be the girl who God made you to be!

.

For All My Friends Back in Michigan

2007-11-08T14:48:00.001-05:00

Detroit Traffic Rules *Forget the traffic rules you learned elsewhere. Detroit has its own version of traffic rules. Hold on and pray! First you must learn to pronounce the city name. It's Di-troit, NOT DEE-troit. If you pronounce it DEE-Troit then we will assume you are from Toledo and here for the country Music hoe-down. *The morning rush hour is from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. The evening rush hour is from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday's rush hour starts Thursday morning. Weekends are open game. *If you actually stop at a yellow light, you will be rear ended, and possibly shot. If you're first off the starting line when the light turns green, count to five before going. This will avoid getting in the way of cross traffic who just ran their yellow light to keep from getting shot. *Schoenherr can ONLY be prounounced by a native of the metro Detroit area. That goes for Gratiot too. *Construction and renovation on I-94, I-96, I-75 and I-275 is a way of life, just deal with it. *If someone actually has their turn signal on, it is probably a factory defect or they are "out of towners". *All old men with white hair wearing a hat have total right-of-way. *The minimum acceptable speed on I-696 is 85 regardless of the posted speeds. Anything less is considered downright SISSY. *Oh, don't even think of allowing more than one car length between cars! *The attractive wrought iron on the windows and doors in Detroit is NOT ornamental. DO NOT get out of your car. *Never stare at the driver of the car with the bumper sticker that says, Keep honking, I'm reloading. *If you are in the left lane and only going 70 in a 60 mph zone, people are not waving because they are so friendly in Detroit. I would suggest you duck. *I-275 & I-696 is our daily version of NASCAR. *It's not M-10, it's "the Lodge". *That's not a lake, it's a pothole. *If someone tells you it's on Outer Drive, you better hope you have a map. *The Michigan left turn is simple. If you want to turn left, go a 1/4 of a mile past your turn, get to the left, then make a left, then another left, then make a right. NOW you have gone left. Enjoy your trip to Detroit

Heard Any Good Sermons Lately???

2007-11-05T14:53:00.000-05:00

Beware the Golden Compass

2007-11-01T11:39:00.000-04:00

There is a new movie coming out soon, starring Nicole Kidman. The title of the movie is "The Golden Compass". It will be marketed to kids, and they have a book series they will be promoting, too.

This movie has a very anti-God sentiment to it. It is being called the "anti-Narnia" movie. To learn more, check out this link. http://snopes.com/politics/religion/compass.asp

To "Halloween" or Not to "Halloween"? Part 2

2007-10-26T11:48:00.000-04:00

First, I want to thank everyone who left a thought or comment on my previous post. You all shared some great ideas and feelings on this matter.

This is the conclusion we came to:

Our youngest son is going to dress up as a fireman, and attend his class party. The situation with our oldest is a bit easier. His class is joining the 7th and 8th graders for a pizza and bowling party. This will not involve costumes, but will just be a fun time.

We're going to follow our tradition of the past by going out together that evening. (We usually go to a fast food restaurant with a play land...though our oldest is getting a bit big for that!) We'll come home and have family prayers, then play some games. The practice in the past was that whoever won the game got some candy. (I took in a pile of caramels one year! :o) ) We usually play Uno or something similar.

After seeing the crowds of children downtown last night, all trying to get their share of the candy offered by the merchants...I was once again thankful that we don't participate in the hullabaloo!

I have to add, too, that our youngest was quite perturbed recently, when he found out that their weekly time of praying the rosary is going to be replaced by their party next week. He didn't think that was right. I have to say, I'm glad he feels that way!

.

A Little Global Warming Education?

2007-10-24T14:03:00.000-04:00

If you're like me, it seems there is at least one article in the paper, one news segment on the evening news, or one item on my news homepage every day about global warming. It seems to have become the latest national and international crisis, if you listen to all they are saying, or read all they are printing on the subject.

Last week, though, I saw an interesting story on this topic on ABC's 20/20. It was on John Stossel's "Give Me a Break" segment. I'm including the link here. Read the article, and let me know what you think. Man vs. Nature

We definitely need to be good stewards of our planet. But do we need to throw the entire population into a panic???

.

A New Picture of the Favorite Great Nephew!

2007-10-22T14:51:00.000-04:00

Thanks for the Forwards

2007-10-16T14:11:00.000-04:00

SUMMARY OF MY LAST YEAR ON THE COMPUTER--A Thank You for All Those Helpful Forwards!

Because of all your forwards...

I have to scrub the top of every can I open.

I don't have any savings because I gave it to a sick girl (Penny
Brown) who is about to die in the hospital for the 1,387,258th time.

In fact I don't have any money at all, but that will change once I
receive the $15,000 that Bill Gates/Microsoft and AOL are sending me
for participating in their special e-mail program.

I don't have to worry about my soul because I have 363,214 angels
looking out for me, and St. Theresa's novena has granted my every wish.

I no longer eat KFC because their chickens are actually horrible
mutant freaks with no eyes or feathers.

I no longer use cancer-causing deodorants even though I smell like
a water buffalo on a hot day

Thanks to you, I have learned that my prayers get answered only if
I forward an email to seven of my friends and make a wish within five
minutes.

I no longer can buy gasoline without taking someone along to watch
the car so a serial killer won't crawl in my back seat when I'm pumping
gas.

I no longer drink Pepsi or Dr. Pepper since the people who make
these product s are atheists who refuse to put "Under God" on the cans.

Also, I no longer drink Coca Cola because it can remove toilet
stains.

I don't use Saran wrap in the microwave because it causes cancer.

And thanks for letting me know I can't boil a cup of water in the
microwave anymore since it will blow up in my face, disfiguring me for
life.

I no longer check the coin return on pay phones because I could be
pricked with an infected needle.

I no longer go to shopping malls because someone will drug me with
a perfume sample and rob me..

I no longer receive packages from UPS or FedEx since they are
actually Al Qaeda in disguise.

I no longer shop at Target since they are French and don't support
our American troops or the Salvation Army.

I don't answer the phone anymore because someone will ask me to
dial a number for which I will get a phone bill with calls to Jamaica,
Uganda, Singapore, and Uzbekistan.

I don't have to buy expensive cookies from Neiman Marcus since I
now have their recipe.

I can't use anyone's toilet but mine because a big brown African
spider is lurking under the seat to cause me instant death when it
bites my rear-end.

And thanks to your great advice, I can't ever pick up $5.00 I find
in a parking lot because it was probably placed there by a sex molester
waiting underneath my car to grab my leg.

I can't drive my car anywhere now because we're no longer supposed
to buy gas from any gas stations.

If you don't copy this and send it to at least 144,000 people in the
next 70 minutes, a large dove with diarrhea will land on your head at
5:00 PM today, and the fleas from 12 camels will infest your back,
causing you to grow a hairy hump. I know this will occur because it
actually happened to a friend of my next door neighbor's
ex-mother-in-law's second husband's cousin's beautician...

Have a wonderful day!

Another Way to Help Greensburg, Kansas

2007-10-15T10:48:00.000-04:00

I received an e-mail today, telling of a recipe book a friend is putting together for people in Greensburg. If you would like to contribute, send recipes to jdrunner@gbta.net. Please note that she would like to have this ready before Christmas, so needs the recipes ASAP.

THANKS SO MUCH!

To "Halloween" or not to "Halloween"?

2007-10-09T14:53:00.001-04:00

Our kids are ages 11 and 8. When our youngest was approaching his first Halloween, back in the '90's, my husband and I had a lengthy discussion about whether or not we should dress our little tyke in some cutesy costume...or let it go. Since our son was only a little over 1 1/2 yrs., we figured we'd let it go. Then the next year came along, and we just sort of ignored the day. Each successive year, it became easier to not deal with it. When our son started kindergarten, we had already pretty much made up our minds that we didn't want to celebrate the day.

Now don't make us out to be scrooges. We both celebrated Halloween throughout our childhoods. But when we were in college, the town was known for its "witches convention" and big, secretive gatherings by those who were into animal sacrifice. The females on our campus were even encouraged to stay inside on that night. Or, at the very least, not to be out alone after dark. It was a very real situation. It convinced me of the evil that takes place on that night. I could give more details, but that's sufficient.

Back to our kids. While in kindergarten, we told our son's teacher that he wouldn't be celebrating Halloween. They didn't force him to sing the songs, and he had the option of making different art projects, etc. On Halloween, we took him out of school for the day, as they were having an all-day party. Our church had a different type of celebration, with kids dressing as saints. Some of the parents in our church agreed with us, so that made it easier.

In the years following this, we have taken that night as a family night. We take the kids to some fast food place with a playland. We come home and play games, with the winners earning free candies, etc. I have gone to Wal-Mart and purchased sale-priced costumes for the kids to dress up in when they are just playing. We just didn't want it to be a celebration of the dark.

However, this year, our kids are not home schooled. They are in school. Halloween songs are being sung. Costumes are being discussed. There will be parties. We are in the very small minority of people who have never celebrated this with our kids. Most people think we're crazy. The Catholic church also celebrates November 1st, which is All Saints' Day. It is a celebration of the lives of those who have stood as examples of living a truly holy, Christian life.

So I'm asking for your thoughts. I really don't know what to do with this situation. Having told our kids all these years the reasons why we don't celebrate this...how do we reconcile that our church's school celebrates it? And should we just lighten up and let them do this...even though that is completely the opposite of what we've always told them?

Let me know what you think!
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*jack-o-lantern photo by Christopher Walters