tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55693664355363837852024-03-12T19:00:00.202-07:00Taking It Down a NotchA recovering over-committed gals musings about married life, parenting life, Realtor life, brewery life, and an attempt at a surrendered life. Really, just some thoughts on paper... or screen.Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01617477562023917135noreply@blogger.comBlogger115125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5569366435536383785.post-21171731189924317272018-01-09T18:37:00.000-08:002018-01-09T18:43:37.926-08:00ChampionsHis rich, buttery voice that once brought Americans the latest happenings in Vietnam was soft, with varying gaps of time as his mind pulled just the right words off the shelf. The speed of the conversation was quite different than the ones we had during my four years of undergrad at Ball State.<br />
<br />
"Thank you isn't even enough. I'm overwhelmed with gratitude. This is better than winning an Emmy."<br />
<br />
This man is a legend. Ted Koppel is one of his dearest friends. But to me and my (now) husband and hundreds of other amazingly-fortunate kids he was, and forever will be, Mr. Bell.<br />
<br />
After receiving the <a href="https://www.indianabroadcasters.org/iba-news/steve-bell-to-receive-indiana-broadcasters-association-lifetime-achievement-award/" target="_blank">2017 Indiana Broadcasters Association Lifetime Achievement Award</a>, word spread. So, a few dozen former students took to their notepads and keypads and iPads, and let this Champion know how far-reaching that achievement really went. Together, we compiled a simple book of heartfelt gratitude for a man who so generously poured in to each of our lives.<br />
<br />
"I really don't have the words to express how important this is to me, but can I get a copy for each of my Grandkids?"<br />
<br />
Everyone has Champions in their lives. Who are yours?<br />
<br />
Are they older? Younger? Relatives? Co-workers? People you see daily or interacted with only once? Who are the people that placed a seed, or watered it, or pruned the vine from which you were growing? Do they know they played that part? Have you told them?<br />
<br />
Words are so powerful. I challenge you to tell one of your Champions just how they've blessed your life. Let them know how the interaction you had with them changed the trajectory of... your family, your career, your lifetime habits. No one ever tires of hearing these things. There's nothing more powerful than to see where you've made an indent on this world. Be sure your Champions know who they are.<br />
<br />
Not ironically, I recently found this sweet letter in our 6-year-old's backpack, addressed to the Dad who coached his fall baseball team.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM_Z6c5_8xl1gOTCdaD_rWmSganSaPCYlK-YZcg-SBO7zq6fM9AUJyW2N4YII4C74GzCtFjJSQzRM18fx3LvDe3t1V7t4YCdI76MwpNiOg47MajrxbgOvZBaV6czktOQwf9DgD1L5bjMvc/s1600/SmartSelectImage_2018-01-09-21-22-39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1364" data-original-width="1006" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM_Z6c5_8xl1gOTCdaD_rWmSganSaPCYlK-YZcg-SBO7zq6fM9AUJyW2N4YII4C74GzCtFjJSQzRM18fx3LvDe3t1V7t4YCdI76MwpNiOg47MajrxbgOvZBaV6czktOQwf9DgD1L5bjMvc/s320/SmartSelectImage_2018-01-09-21-22-39.jpg" width="236" /></a></div>
<i>"Dear Coach Clark, </i><br />
<i>I think that you were a great baseball coach for Tomahawks baseball, and I that that you will be a great baseball coach this year.</i><br />
<i>Love, Jack Grove"</i><br />
<br />
I challenge you: Tell one of your Champions what they mean to you <u>today</u>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01617477562023917135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5569366435536383785.post-83611984875536099312018-01-06T05:04:00.000-08:002018-01-07T19:40:18.238-08:00681<i>I haven't blogged on this page in approximately 5 years. That was 1.5 kids ago... 3 houses ago... pre 061715 ...pretty much a lifetime ago.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Crafting words together to make pretty, thought-provoking sentences, which are grammatically and factually correct, is therapeutic. I love reading a book or article or blog post that takes me some place. I'm amazed at the ways authors can weave words together to make a word picture so spot-on. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Over the course of the last year I trained for and ran two half marathons. During those lonely treadmill training runs (ie. death) I realized how much is bottled up and jarbled up in my brain. From goals, to real estate, to parenting, to Jesus-following... there's a a variety of things going on up there. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>So, from time to time I'm going to drop a line or two on this trusty old blog, to which by some miracle I happened to recall the password. You can read the "old" stuff down below if you'd like. It's a former me, but it's still me. I'm thankful to be refreshed of those memories from sacred days long gone. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>And now I give you, post "681".</i><br />
<br />
I love a good goal, a SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, time-bound) goal, "<a href="http://freshtakeoncontent.com/wheel-of-life-goals/" target="_blank">Wheel of Life</a>" goals. So, as every Type-A does in mid-December, I laid mine out... some physical, some educational, some work and family related. In total, 8 goals... 3 habitual, 5 achievable.<br />
<br />
One of my physical goals is to (again) run 2 half marathons in one calendar year. But, to spice it up and make it a new goal, my running partner and I decided our goal is to run 13.1 miles every week in training.<br />
<br />
Week one: Done.<br />
651.86 to go.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpI8SJTmzeq3AAdpt2xJxoloHH4PafxSuX0KeIzNxBiNpwraNaN5S9I_W8AuVyQpzXyCfo5Us09xoGEpJ5A-CPjt3vN13g6ZMdymiVk6VShRfyLCMZ4qK7HTPYplyKWqjA1RmaN6AP7ApI/s1600/SmartSelectImage_2018-01-06-07-20-07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="377" data-original-width="882" height="136" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpI8SJTmzeq3AAdpt2xJxoloHH4PafxSuX0KeIzNxBiNpwraNaN5S9I_W8AuVyQpzXyCfo5Us09xoGEpJ5A-CPjt3vN13g6ZMdymiVk6VShRfyLCMZ4qK7HTPYplyKWqjA1RmaN6AP7ApI/s320/SmartSelectImage_2018-01-06-07-20-07.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
But, this morning on the treadmill, something hit me (and it wasn't the duct work 4 inches from my forehead.) As I was sorting through multiple offers on a property I listed yesterday (this pertains to my number-of-homes-I'm-aiming-to-sell-this-year goal) while stuffing reheated leftovers down my throat before enjoying a movie with my people, I realized that it's really not the goals themselves that are so worth achieving.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>The goal, in my mind, is not short-cutting other areas of life while going for the goals. </b><br />
<br />
If I'm eating while working on my laptop at the dinner table, and ignoring the people I share a roof with, what's the point?<br />
If I'm too gung-ho on getting my practice minutes on the piano to help an elderly neighbor shovel the driveway, what am I striving for?<br />
If my financial goals keep me from sharing resources with those less fortunate, why has it been entrusted to me to begin with?<br />
<br />
So, week one of 2018 comes with a swift kick in the rear.<br />
Don't let the SMART goals become dumb rules.Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01617477562023917135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5569366435536383785.post-71571660593769575052013-10-03T13:09:00.000-07:002013-10-03T13:09:54.013-07:00Are you ready?When you waddle around in life 37.5 weeks pregnant, you BEG to be asked that one loaded question, "Are you ready?" It is asked of me multiple times a day, every.single.day. I know that people are being cordial and conversational, but I've run out of interesting responses. <br />
<br />
Top three:<br />
"...I think so..."<br />
"...we'll find out..." <br />
and, <br />
"...not really."<br />
<br />
But today in the shower, I really started thinking about it. I mean, if all goes as planned, this is Grand Finale Grove. I will never (Lord-willing) never carry life within me again. (My cup overfloweth!) So, I'm rethinking my various answers to that oh-so-loaded question:<br />
<br />
Are you ready...<br />
<br />
...to no longer carry an additionally 40lbs around? HECK YES! Just ask my feet. <br />
<br />
...to never again feel that indescribable feeling of life moving within me? No. It's quite possibly the coolest experience ever. <br />
<br />
...to see The Boy and The Girl walk into the hospital room to meet their new sibling? No, not at all. They'll immediately both look 75% bigger, and 3 years older, and I just can't handle that.<br />
<br />
... to have more than 6 wardrobe items that I fit in to? Yes, yes, yes. I simply cannot find one more way to accessorize and make them look different. I'm so bored with my options, and too cheap to do anything about it. <br />
<br />
... to not fit into anything properly for the next 6 months? No, ugh. Talk about depressing. Maternity clothes are too big. Normal clothes are abnormally small. Bring on the yoga pants... and the treadmill.<br />
<br />
...to no longer have an excuse for eating crap-ola beyond any reasonable hour? No, I'm going to miss the special time spent in the evenings with The Hubby, Ken Burns, and some Cinnamon Toast Crunch. Seriously, there's no reasonable excuse for eating that stuff at any other time in my life.<br />
<br />
...to not get up and potty fives times a night? Oh yes, I cannot wait to sleep through the night again... oh wait...<br />
<br />
...to get up fives times a night to nurse a baby/change a diaper/make sure my child hasn't died of SIDS? No. No. No, not at all. <br />
<br />
... to find out if it's a boy or a girl? I'm pumped, but not nearly as pumped as I thought I'd be. I really have no preference one way or the other. I just want to have a healthy baby and simple delivery. I think the not knowing will just be a huge motivating factor when it comes time to push. <br />
<br />
... to juggle life with three kids? Not at all ready. I'm OCD. I plan. I like a clean house. None of these things goes along with a newborn, a 2.5 year old and a 5 year old. Praying for lots of Grace!<br />
<br />
... to sleep on my stomach again? YES. Oh I cannot WAIT to sleep on my stomach again. I'm pretty sure The Hubby can't wait either... I've been accused of snoring for the first time in 8 years of wedded bliss. How dare he!<br />
<br />
...to hold the third piece of worldy evidence of how much The Hubby and I love each other? YES! I cannot wait! Who will he/she look like? Will they have lots of hair? What will their personality be like? <br />
<br />
So, Am I ready? <br />
<br />
I say, bring it on! This is life. We'll roll with it. We'll figure it out. We'll fail. We'll succeed. We'll survive. We'll thrive. We'll be Carried Along. We'll be exhausted. We'll sleep when we're dead. <br />
<br />
12 days.<br />
<br />
Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01617477562023917135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5569366435536383785.post-87107957817853210052013-04-19T19:50:00.000-07:002013-04-19T19:50:22.618-07:00Pit StopBeing that it's almost May in Indiana, it was quite necessary to name this post what I did ;) Other considerations were: <br />
"Here We Go Again..."<br />
"Yes, It's True" and<br />
"Thank God Address Books Are Electronic."<br />
<br />
About 18 months ago, when contemplating our move from Granger to West Lafayette, I made a very, very terrible mistake. The Hubby and I were on a walk and I uttered the following statement: "I think about the worst thing ever would be to move to West Lafayette, be there for a year or so, and then move to Indy." <br />
<br />
Why, Stacy, whhhhyyyy???<br />
<br />
It was 364 days ago that we accepted an offer on our <a href="http://slowdownstacy.blogspot.com/2012/04/cosmetic-surgery.html" target="_blank">house in Granger</a>. <u>Less than one year ago</u> we agreed to <a href="http://slowdownstacy.blogspot.com/2012/05/it-is-finished.html" target="_blank">give up the home</a>, <a href="http://slowdownstacy.blogspot.com/2012/05/influencers.html" target="_blank">people</a> and life we loved. The summer was looney as we lived in a gazillion different places, finally finding a lovely little West Lafayette town home in late November to call our own. <br />
<br />
Today, less than five months later, we sold our lovely little town home. In the six days it was <a href="http://slowdownstacy.blogspot.com/2011/11/soapbox-of-sorts.html" target="_blank">on the market</a>, we had six showings, and ended up with <u>two</u> offers. Yay. For. Us. <br />
<br />
So, now, we're off to... Indy! Just as we were making friends... plugging in... and starting over, God has called us on to someplace different. <br />
<br />
It's not devastating in terms of "oh-we'll-never-see-any-of-these-people-again." I mean, really, much of my family lives in West Lafayette and we'll only be an hour down the road. However, it is devastating in terms of "time-to-find-a-new-house/school/church/smallgroup/groupoffriends-and-hanging-with-family-will-be-way-less-convenient."<br />
<br />
The biggest awesome factor is that no longer will The Hubby spend 70 minutes driving to AND from work five days a week. I am so looking forward to a shorter workday for him (ie. more time with us!)<br />
<br />
God will give us the house. He will give us the church. He will give us the school. He will give us the friends. In the last 364 days I've learned to accept that those things will not be perfect replicas of what we had in Granger. That was then. But, I've also learned that<strong> He will use our family for the purpose of His Kingdom, and for His Glory</strong>, if we (read: I) just take a chill pill. <br />
<br />
Best part of all: We don't have to pack and move ourselves. (Good thing, our small group isn't big enough for a fiasco like that...)<br />
<br />
So, The Great Adventure continues. Who knew this was just a pit stop? Onward.Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01617477562023917135noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5569366435536383785.post-60024158718241039012013-03-22T20:20:00.000-07:002013-03-22T20:20:10.694-07:0058: The FilmAll I wanted was a simple cake idea. Our Little Buddy is turning two, and I want to incorporate a firetruck into his homemade cake. Where to get quick ideas? Pinterest. Oh. My. Word. Don't get me wrong, I love Pinterest, but my perspective has changed a bit. <br />
<br />
It happened on Tuesday. <br />
<br />
I love a good documentary. Something well thought. Something low budget. Something with heart and a purpose. <br />
<br />
Tuesday night our small group got together and watched "58: The Film" and my world was rocked. (Bonus: It's on Netflix.) We popped popcorn, made cupcakes and poured our delicious drinks-- and within the first 10 minutes no one had an appetite. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.live58.org/thefilm/" target="_blank">"58: The Film"</a> is about a movement to end extreme poverty around the globe, through authentic Christian living, based on <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=isaiah%2058&version=NLT" target="_blank">Isaiah 58</a>. <br />
<br />
In this 72 minute film you see families who live in rock quarries... working to pay a debt that's impossible to repay. You see families of eight who live in shanties... the size of my walk-in closet. You see little girls sold into sex trafficking... so their families can afford to eat. <br />
<br />
What I can't understand is that while some kids are left to work in a quarry for the rest of their lives because of their parents desire to put food on the table, we are busy throwing <a href="http://www.potterybarnkids.com/design-studio/community/celebrations_by_you.html" target="_blank">birthday parties</a> for 8-year-olds that cost as much as a mortgage payment! (C'mon, they invited 38 kids!!!)<br />
<br />
We (Christians) are so wrapped up in who should be allowed to get married, what gender should be preaching from the pulpit and who has the right to carry weapons, that we've forgotten our mission on this earth. We're distracted. <br />
<br />
Point for Satan. <br />
<br />
Suddenly, my closet is annoying. My pantry is annoying. The fact that my kids DON'T share a room is annoying. I'm disgusted at my own oblivion.<br />
<br />
Point for Jesus.<br />
<br />
A few weeks ago I heard an evangelist talk about Western Christians being "spiritually obese." We go to church <em>and feast</em>... we go to Bible Study <em>and feast</em>... we hang out with our Christian friends <em>and feast</em>... but at what point are we going out and <strong>exercising our beliefs</strong>. How and when are we being the hands and feet of Jesus? <br />
<br />
I'm guilty, friends. I'm so, so pathetically guilty. But I'm admitting it, which is the first step towards change. <br />
<br />
Ending extreme poverty is not impossible. Changing lives from our small-town Indiana homes <a href="https://www.facebook.com/#!/events/534530049902968/?fref=ts" target="_blank">is not impossible</a>.<br />
<br />
And a simple 9x13 boxed cake mix will be more than enough to celebrate 2 years of God-given JOY.<br />
Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01617477562023917135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5569366435536383785.post-3095212729765254722013-02-11T05:00:00.000-08:002013-02-11T05:00:02.557-08:00Think. Pray. Talk. <em>Editors Note: </em><em>I volunteered to write this for our MOPS newsletter, so this is geared towards the Mama's out there.</em> <br />
<br />
Dictionary.com defines "intimacy" as <span id="hotword"><em><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">a</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">close,</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">familiar,</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">and</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">usually</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">affectionate</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">or</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">loving</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">personal</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">relationship</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">with</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">another</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">person</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">or</span> </em><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;"><em>group</em>.</span> </span><br />
<span></span><br />
<span></span>According to Wikipedia (the source of all things brilliant, no?), there are four different forms of intimacy: physical, emotional, cognative, and experimental. <br />
<br />
<strong>Physical intimacy</strong> is sensual touching. This is where sparks fly. It's when you get inside someones personal space... holding hands, hugging, kissing, and perhaps sexual activity. <br />
<br />
<strong>Emotional intimacy</strong> is when you know your soul is tied to someone or something. I'd argue to say that many of us Mama's have some sort of emotional intimacy with a gal-pal, or group of girlfriends-- perhaps a group of women that are in the same age/stage of life as you. (MOPS!)<br />
<br />
<strong>Cognative or intellectual intimacy</strong> takes place when two people exchange thoughts, share ideas and enjoy similarities and differences between their opinions. Perhaps we commonly see this amongst our family, both immediate and extended.<br />
<br />
<strong>Experiential intimacy</strong> is when two people get together to actively involve themselves with each other, probably saying very little to each other, but being involved in mutual activities with one another. This one might be commonly found in the workplace. <br />
<br />
When it comes to [Physical] Intimacy in Marriage, I am no expert. (Yes, you just heard my hubby shout "Amen!" from the other side of the room.) I've LOVE the emotional stuff. What can I say, I'm a w-o-m-a-n. And, thankfully, my marriage was built upon an intellectual intimacy between The Hubby and myself. We met in college, working towards the same B.A., and built a killer friendship. Sadly, I must confess that our child-rearing often looks like experiential intimacy-- working towards raising intelligent, God-fearing, kids-- without often coming together on the how-to's and why's. <br />
<br />
Physical intimacy in marriage, I'd argue, is <strong>as a result of the other three</strong>. <em>What do you mean, Stacy?</em> Well, let me ask you a few questions: <br />
<br />
<u>Emotional intimacy evaluation</u>- What or who is your soul tied to? Your kids? Your girlfriends? Your job? How much time to you spend tying your soul to the man that God hand-picked for you? Do you pray together? Do you memorize Scripture together? Do you still go on dates (without your kids!)? What do you do to pursue one another (yes ladies, we can pursue our men!) outside of the bedroom? <br />
<br />
<u>Cognative intimacy evaluation</u>- What does your husband care about? I mean, what really gets him chatting? Sports? Politics? Business ideas? When the kids are gone, what will you talk to him about? What gets <u>you</u> chatting? Have you shared this with him? <br />
<br />
<u>Experiential intimacy</u>- What do you agree and disagree on about raising children? Have you had a discussion about this ... outside of the time-out you've just given your child while you figure out your game plan? What do you look forward to if/when you get to retire together? When the house is quiet and the last birdie leaves the nest, what will you go and do together? <br />
<br />
If these things are discussed and addressed regularly, I believe physically intimacy with our spouses would become less of a chore and more of a celebration! (Which, by the way, is what God intended for it to be! See Song of Solomon.) Have you ever told your Hubby what turns you on OUTSIDE of the bedroom? Maybe it's folding a load of laundry, unloading the dishwasher without being asked, or something as sacred as leading your family in evening devotions. Does he know this, or have you only been able to spill to your girlfriends what he DOESN'T know. <br />
<br />
When it comes to Intimacy in Marriage, I'd boil it down to this: What is the ministry of your marriage? What fruit of God is seen in your marriage, because of His uniting you and your spouse? <br />
<br />
Think about it. <br />
Pray about it. <br />
Talk about it. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01617477562023917135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5569366435536383785.post-65035366551853821822013-02-04T11:40:00.000-08:002013-02-04T11:40:34.004-08:00PerspectiveI love birthdays! I love cake... presents... surprises... endless FB love... singing... decor... gathering of friends and family... you know, all the things a good b-day entails! <br />
<br />
This morning I started a new b-day ritual. I ran 3.1 miles. (Get it? 3.1 because I'm 31...) It was awesome. I'm still out of shape, but I did it. 400 calories- POOF- gone! (I'm thinking this ritual will be more impressive when I'm 65 and running 6.5 miles, no?)<br />
<br />
About 20 minutes into this endeavor, two 70-somethings came in (wearing their jeans?) and hopped on the treadmills on either side of me. And, as I redirected my selfish thoughts ("I'm so much faster than them! Look at me go!"), it occurred to me that they're more than twice my age... and still working out. Instantly, I loved these ladies. <br />
<br />
And, since I still had another 20 minutes of <strike>pain</strike> running, my mind began to wonder...<br />
<br />
10 years ago I celebrated my 21st Birthday. On the one hand, that seems like an eternity ago, and on the other it seems like just yesterday. Either way, I cringe when I think about it. Some of my still very precious friends and I headed to a few of the local establishments (lots of options, thanks to Purdue), and we. got. loaded. There was a book for signatures after drinks... which were being served by the pitcher-full. There was a piano bar. There was dancing. There was fun and laughter. But, oh my word, there was more alcohol than I care to reflect upon. <em>(This is not a judgement upon those who love this lifestyle. I'm just saying, it's not a good fit for me.)</em><br />
<br />
This morning, my almost two-year-old, and my 4.5-year-old sang "Happy Birthday" to me with their Dad. (I might have asked them to stop, grabbed my video recorder, and had them start again.) It was precious. (By the way, who added the "cha-cha-cha" stuff? My kids think it's a riot.) We were all in our jammies, possibly on day 2 without a shower, eating oatmeal and laughing at <strike>D</strike> someone who toots a lot. Cherish.<br />
<br />
My hubby, after a loooooooong night of work, was thoughtful enough to stop and get flowers, a balloon and a card, which I saw on the kitchen table when I woke up this morning. It could have been a bag of M&M's or even a bowl of pre-poured cereal-- the fact is, he remembered and inconvenienced himself to show me even more love than he usually does. (A year ago, he did <a href="http://www.slowdownstacy.blogspot.com/2012/01/there-are-no-words.html" target="_blank">this</a> for me on my b-day.)<br />
<br />
In 10 more years, I will be 41. HOLY SMOKES! God-willing, I will have a 14-year-old, 12-year-old and who knows how many (if any) other kids! My parents will be in their '70s!!! THEY will be the old people on the treadmills! <br />
<br />
Woah. Now there's a new perspective.Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01617477562023917135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5569366435536383785.post-23422640753131579072013-01-23T10:58:00.000-08:002013-01-23T10:58:16.224-08:003... 2... 1... BLAST OFF!<br />
The final hours before one leaves for vacation are... long... chaotic... crazed? Can I get an amen? I put a ridiculous amount of pressure on myself. (ie. The car --and the people!-- must be fully loaded and ready to go when Daddy pulls in the garage. Out of one car and into the other. It's so pretty, and simple, and neat... in my head.) However, there are children to entertain (while packing for yourself and 3 other people), lists to check and *gasp* a schedule to keep! <br />
<br />
One could spend these moments tongue-lashing innocent by-standers-- "We're leaving for Nana's when Daddy gets home from work in THREE HOURS... that's SIX more Dora episodes! STOOPPPP ASSKKIINNGGG MEEEEEEE!"-- or... bottle that energy and be effective. <br />
<br />
I am a list-maker. I've been known to do things that weren't written on my original list, so I go back and add them to said "original" list just to be able to cross them off. I know, it's sick. <br />
<br />
However...<br />
<br />
I heartily believe that because some extra time and energy is expended <u>before</u> departing, the arrival back into normalcy isn't such a bummer. (Oh yes, it's still a bummer... just not <em>such</em> a bummer.)<br />
<br />
Here's my vacation to-do list... in case it can be of any use to you: <br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
-<strong>Do laundry</strong>- You will bring plenty back with you. It's best to start with a clean slate! Plus, when you're packing, all wardrobe items are fair game! They're clean and ready to be packed!</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
-<strong>Clean/straighten house</strong>- The depth of this one is totally dependent on time allotted. At minimum, straighten up. If you're super-mom, dust, vacuum and clean toilets. (It's best to not let anyone else know if you've gone this far. You. Will. Be. Judged.)</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
-<strong>Update return calendar</strong>- Say what? You know. You maximized your vacation time. Therefore, 10 hours after you pull in the garage, life is back into full-swing. That means you're responsible for pre-school snack for 18 starving children; Hubby has to pick up the car that was left for an oil change while you were out of town; and, it's your turn to drive carpool. Taking a few minutes to assess the situation before you depart will make the return to reality no big deal. It might also make you savor those last few minutes of vacation :)</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
-<strong>Pay/mail all bills-</strong> People. You're about to spend all your dough on vacation. Pay your bills BEFORE you leave and come home to no worries! </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
-<strong>Stop/hold newspaper and mail</strong>- No, you don't want the burglars to know you're away; however, they probably already do because you posted it all over Facebook. Justsayin....</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<strong>-Print boarding passes</strong>- I HATE it when we forget to do this! It's on the list, though, so consider it done. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
-<strong>Empty trash and recycling-</strong> Nothing gnarlier (add it to Websters?) than a weeks worth of trash, rotting inside your home. Throw in a few week-old diapers and... yummy! Spare yourselves this calamity. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<strong>-Run dishwasher-</strong> If you're super-mom you will also unload it. But, just running it will be satisfactory.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
-<strong>Close all windows/blinds. Set thermostat at 60* or 78*-</strong> depending on season. No need to heat/cool air that is unused. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
So there you have it. Go! Play! Vacate! Am I forgetting something??</div>
Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01617477562023917135noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5569366435536383785.post-62941967328264648312013-01-05T19:36:00.000-08:002013-01-05T19:36:12.000-08:00Her GalaxySome of you loyal readers (all 3) might know my mom is an outstanding real estate salesperson in the metropolis of West Lafayette, Indiana... in the shadow of the golden... er, Purdue University. <br />
<br />
What you might not know is that in the early '90's she became a part of an elite group of Realtors from across the country who were dubbed "Howard Brinton's STAR Power Stars." Basically, Howard-- a real estate and leadership guru-- did his homework and acknowledged the top real estate sales people across the country. Each month, he would feature one "STAR of the month," who happened to be the next inductee into this elite group. For my mom, Cathy Russell, that was February of 1994. It was just after my 12th birthday, and I had no idea how it would impact the rest of my life. <br />
<br />
Her fellow STARS were (and continue to be) some of her best friends. They've challenge her in her business as they have gathered twice a year for the last [almost] 20 years to swap ideas and inspire one another. They're also sounding boards when a "rainmaker" needs to vent... encouragement when overcome with illness... and a swift kick in the pants when one might start to get lazy [read: behind on technology]. <br />
<br />
Every summer we got the awesome experience of a week away at an incredible destination... Orlando, San Antonio, New York... and on and on and on. Basically, we'd swim all day in the hotel pool and eat great food while Mom went to sessions and taught others her trade. Then came the years that I got to go as an attendee. I graduated from college and join my mom's team. Talk about not missing a beat... these conferences were awesome! It was like standing in front of a fire-hydrant of information. <br />
<br />
Wikipedia says, <em>"Stars can form part of a much larger gravitationally bound structure, such as a </em><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Star_cluster" title="Star cluster"><em>cluster</em></a><em> or a </em><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galaxy" title="Galaxy"><em>galaxy</em></a><em>."</em> <br />
<br />
That's it. This group has become mom's galaxy! <br />
<br />
But, as I started thinking about it, they're also part of mine... <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.realestatemastersguild.com/about-us/" target="_blank">Amy Stoehr</a> was mom's first assistant, and left to go be Howard's go-to-gal. She was like a big sister to me! I did (and still kind of do) want to be her ;)<br />
<a href="http://www.floridareadvisors.com/About" target="_blank">Randy Keys'</a> Christmas parties at the Indianapolis Zoo were always so fun! <br />
<a href="http://www.janacaudillteam.com/" target="_blank">Jana Caudill</a> is our next door neighbor at the lake. We live our summers with her family, and have for years! <br />
<a href="http://www.bethmason.com/" target="_blank">Beth Mason</a> and <a href="http://www.springfield-homes.com/" target="_blank">Janet Parson's</a> helped mom get me into my wedding gown on that most-sacred of days! <br />
<a href="http://www.twincitiesusa.com/" target="_blank">Steve Westmark</a> was at the hospital for the birth of my first born child! <br />
<br />
A galaxy indeed!<br />
<br />
For the last few days, Mom has been in Utah, celebrating the life lived by Howard Brinton. As I've watched the photos float across my Facebook home page, I started thinking about what Howard meant to little me. He was goofy, and smart, and made an adoring 12-year-old fan feel awesome when he gave ME (!!!) a hug at one of those annual conferences. <br />
<br />
<em>"For at least a portion of its life, a star shines due to </em><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thermonuclear_fusion" title="Thermonuclear fusion"><em>thermonuclear fusion</em></a><em> of </em><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydrogen" title="Hydrogen"><em>hydrogen</em></a><em> into </em><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Helium" title="Helium"><em>helium</em></a><em> in its core, releasing energy that traverses the star's interior and then </em><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radiation" title="Radiation"><em>radiates</em></a><em> into </em><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Outer_space" title="Outer space"><em>outer space</em></a><em>."</em><br />
<br />
As I came across that statement, I couldn't help but think of Howard. For a portion of his life-- most of his life-- he shined. The thermonuclear fusion (whatever that technically means...) in his core released energy... and then it radiated! He poured into others, helping them to become the best of the best! <br />
<br />
At church last Sunday, the pastor challenged us with this question: <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KX4Q0B41z4E/UOjtmenPz_I/AAAAAAAABoc/MP0r_6XC-T8/s1600/IMAG1164.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KX4Q0B41z4E/UOjtmenPz_I/AAAAAAAABoc/MP0r_6XC-T8/s320/IMAG1164.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Howard's seems so clear to me: <strong>Be a shining star in the galaxy where God has placed you.</strong> <br />
<br />
Thank you, Howard, for bringing mom into your group. And, thank you STARs, for being the galaxy in which mom perfectly fits. Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01617477562023917135noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5569366435536383785.post-23701762542921922482012-12-17T10:53:00.001-08:002014-10-13T19:51:51.913-07:00The WarBrace yourselves. I'm about to go on a major rant. But, this is my blog, so I guess that's allowed. And really, what better platform, right? <br />
<br />
We are in a war. What happened in Connecticut last Friday makes it all the more real. It's not just a war of weapons, mental health or security issues. It's much, much bigger than that. <br />
<br />
Since allllllllll those years ago when that slimy snake worked his magic in the garden, we have been in a war of Evil v. Good. <br />
<br />
As I've scrolled Facebook the last few days, reading reactions to the tragedy of 26 lives gone in an instant, what most frustrates me is the dialogue that goes something like this:<br />
<br />
"Dear God, Why do you allow so much violence in our schools?" -Concerned student<br />
"Dear Concerned Student, I'm not allowed in schools." -God<br />
<br />
Really? If you believe this, as a believer and follower of Jesus Christ, I think you might be confused. <br />
<br />
The God I follow is omnipresent. He is God. He is everywhere, at all times. He is omnicient. He has complete, unlimited knowledge. <br />
<br />
Laws and rules do not keep God out of schools. He. Is. GOD! He is in schools because we (believers) are in schools... <br />
... opening our mouths to proclaim His truths...<br />
... loving on others with self-less action... <br />
... praying for the leadership of the school... <br />
<br />
It's not a petition or rules that "allows" God into schools. He doesn't need an invitation.<br />
<br />
Matthew retells a prophesy of Isaiah (about Jesus) in the 12th chapter of his gospel: <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<em><sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">18 </span></sup>“Look at my Servant, whom I have chosen.<br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Matt-12-18">He is my Beloved, who pleases me.</span></span><br /><span class="text Matt-12-18">I will put my Spirit upon him,</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Matt-12-18">and he will proclaim justice to the nations.</span></span><br /><span class="text Matt-12-19" id="en-NLT-23485"><sup class="versenum">19 </sup><span style="background-color: yellow;">He will not fight or shout</span></span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"><span style="background-color: yellow;"> </span></span><span class="text Matt-12-19"><span style="background-color: yellow;">or raise his voice in public</span>.</span></span><br /><span class="text Matt-12-20" id="en-NLT-23486"><sup class="versenum">20 </sup>He will not crush the weakest reed</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Matt-12-20">or put out a flickering candle.</span></span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Matt-12-20">Finally<span style="background-color: yellow;"> he will cause justice to be victorious.</span></span></span><br /><span style="background-color: yellow;"><span class="text Matt-12-21" id="en-NLT-23487"><sup class="versenum">21 </sup>And his name will be the hope</span></span><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"><span style="background-color: yellow;"> </span></span><span class="text Matt-12-21"><span style="background-color: yellow;">of all the world</span>.”</span></span></em></div>
<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Matt-12-21"><sup></sup></span></span><br />
<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Matt-12-21"><sup></sup></span></span>People! <u>God does not need human permission to be in schools</u>! <br />
<br />
Whether public school, Christian school, home-school, or any other time of educational facility (or movie theater, or shopping mall, or army base), there will be trouble/hurt/violence/thingsthatmakeabsolutelynosense! God warns us of this:<br />
<br />
<em>John 16:33 "I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”</em><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong>"...BUT TAKE HEART..."</strong></div>
<br />
Ah ha! A different promise!<br />
<br />
To me, the bottom line is this: I don't believe in a set of rules. I believe & follow a relational Savior, who loved me so much to die a horrific death on a cross by crucifiction! They'll know we're Christians by our love, not our rules... or complaining... or excuses. <br />
<br />
You want more Jesus in schools? BE HIM! Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01617477562023917135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5569366435536383785.post-48040075534828712512012-11-05T07:02:00.001-08:002012-11-05T07:03:18.989-08:00Shaking = StrengthSuperman planks. Lunges & bicep curls. Dips. Wall sits... for 60 whole seconds. It didn't seem bad... and then the shaking started... and then <a href="http://www.goldenstepsstudio.com/powerhour/" target="_blank">Coach Cindy</a> came and sat on my shaking legs. <br />
<br />
"C'mon LADIES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Shaking equals strength!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" <br />
<br />
Coach Cindy has a way of saying things that make you want to hug her and punch her at the same time. But what she said this morning had me thinking something all together different. <br />
<br />
Shaking = strength. <br />
<br />
What makes you shake? This morning, for me, it was wall sits. Physical. <br />
What about mental shakes? Getting ready to tell your children about your cancer diagnosis? Mental.<br />
Stressed over a new job? Emotional. <br />
Running out of steam to fully-commit to the year-long ministry you're engaged in? Spiritual. <br />
<br />
This mornings comment by Coach Cindy really had me thinking. (Good thing, because thinking about the burpees you're doing while you're doing them is really awful!)<br />
<br />
<strong><u>We</u> must be shaken to show <u>God's</u> strength.</strong> <br />
<br />
Sitting on the couch watching TV all night? No prob.<br />
Eating every single item offered at the tailgate on Saturday? Gladly.<br />
Going through the entire day without ever hugging your spouse? Easy enough.<br />
<br />
<strong>GOD LETS US SHAKE NOW AND THEN.</strong> <br />
<br />
I think of Noah-- probably because we're studying the flood right now in <a href="http://bsfinternational.org/Classes/Locate/tabid/81/Default.aspx" target="_blank">BSF</a>. His neighbors must have thought he was nuts. Hauling huge cypress trees out of the woods with his sons to build a gigantic boat? Nutso. I see physical shakes (heavy trees) and emotional shakes (being made fun of.) Where was his strength? God's promise! (Genesis 6:9-22)<br />
<br />
How about little David and Goliath the giant? David had to have some shakin' going on. "What was I thinking?" One. Little. Rock. One BIG God. Strength. (1 Samuel 17: 48-50)<br />
<br />
So how is God shaking you? Where are you going for strength? Are you volunteering for every organization on the planet, and yet getting no help of your own? Are you trying to break a bad habit, without asking for help? <br />
<br />
<strong>2 Corinthians 12:9 <em>"For my power is made perfect in weakness."</em></strong><br />
<br />
He needs us weak, so He can show just how strong He is. We shake, so He can show his strength. <br />
<br />
So go on, get out there. Let God shake you up a bit. Then let Him show HIS strength<strong> <u>through</u></strong> you... your circumstances, your life, your RESPONSE to Him.Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01617477562023917135noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5569366435536383785.post-44762076326214032312012-10-22T08:54:00.000-07:002012-10-22T09:05:19.413-07:00The Recap<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JIpEZNJUTXY/UIVuhdH4RpI/AAAAAAAAAtU/nIND9gBPq_E/s1600/Purdue+Half.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JIpEZNJUTXY/UIVuhdH4RpI/AAAAAAAAAtU/nIND9gBPq_E/s320/Purdue+Half.jpg" width="320" /></a><em>"Do you not know that in a race </em><em>all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize." </em><em>1 Corinthians 9:24-27</em></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This weekend I ran the first-ever Purdue Half Marathon, my fourth such endeavor. It was freezing. I crossed the finish line and nearly tossed my cookies (literally, I had just stuffed a Famous Amos in my mouth!) So, as a committed citizen, I feel it necessary to give the organizers some feedback. Here's my $0.02. </div>
<br />
<strong>Event Organizers-</strong> You nailed it. For the "first-ever" I thought most everything went splendidly. Sign-up was easy. Website was informational. Signage along the course was neat and clean. Course was AWESOME! (Okay-- running UP Northwestern for the last mile was slightly death-defying, but I understand why it went that way. And sprinting DOWN the hill to the finish line was just awesome.) Perhaps reconfigure the post-finish line arrangement for next year? A thoroughly equipped water station right away would be stellar, and having the food just a few steps past that would be ideal. But, I get that you had sponsors to recognize, and you did. <br />
<br />
<strong>Volunteers-</strong> Y'all rock. I tried to thank as many of you as I could along the way, but I know I missed many. The fact that you'd give up several hours of your Saturday morning to hand out water (and have it thrown right back in your face), or stop traffic (and take the curses that I'm sure the citizens of Greater Lafayette were spitting out), was super. At one water station I hugged a very drunk banana. <br />
<br />
Which leads me to my next thought... <br />
<br />
ENGAGE THE STUDENTS! All of the volunteers were awesome, but the students were nuts, and I loved it. They were jumping, clapping, high-fiving, and generally just totally motivating. Perhaps some of the fraternities and sororities need community service hours? Why not some sort of water-station cheer-squad competition? Weaving the course through a campus community of 40,000+ undergrads, there has to be a surplus of volunteers, no? <br />
<br />
<strong>Citizens of Greater Lafayette-</strong> I am sorry. Our course wound all around town, and I'm not sure how well prepared you were. Some of you we're stuck right in the middle. Thank you for your patience... for honking... waving from inside your windows... and even coming out to cheer while you sipped your coffee. I do have to say that The Organizers had signage out all around town several days before the event, but with this being the first time you might not have realized that 2,000+ people were committed. <br />
<br />
<strong>Team Indianapolis</strong>- Can you even believe it? MONTHS ago an idea was born... and by God's Grace and ever-abundant provision, Neelu's needs are being met. May all the glory go to Him! What a privilege to know that there were others out there training, raising money, and Trusting Jesus! <br />
<br />
<strong>As Our Own-</strong> Your organization is awesome. I totally believe it <a href="http://asourown.org/" target="_blank">what you're doing</a>, and I'm so thankful for your incredible ministry. I will be praying for you! <br />
<br />
<strong>Neelu-</strong> You are beautiful. <a href="http://slowdownstacy.blogspot.com/2012/08/running-for-her-life.html" target="_blank">You are SO loved</a>. Your dark eyes and bright smile were on the forefront of my mind as I endured some super-hot training runs this summer... and even Saturday at mile 9 when my knees said, "We're done!" I never stopped thinking about you, your mother, and the incredible journey I can imagine that God has you on. Oh the plans He has for YOU! I'm so thankful to be a little-bitty part of it. You can't imagine how much you motivated me!<br />
<br />
Mark your calenders: <a href="http://purduehalf.com/" target="_blank">October 19, 2013</a>. Lets do it!Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01617477562023917135noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5569366435536383785.post-65500349596447939822012-09-06T20:14:00.000-07:002012-09-07T06:58:13.780-07:00Good night, and good luck.And just like that, 6:28 P.M. rolls across the clock and it's over. The day is done, the week is done, and a chapter is done...<br />
<br />
Eight and a half years ago, The Hubby started at WSBT-TV as an intern. Tomorrow, he signs off as one of the main anchors for the evening news... a dream of his since he was in 5th grade. <br />
<br />
If I had the technological know-how, I'd digitize and then upload the hours upon hours of VHS tapes his parents have of him doing the news from their kitchen table after school. Then again, maybe I wouldn't. (He forced his sister to volunteer to be the weather girl-- complete with a map of Indiana covered in Saran Wrap so she could draw on it-- and she might not want it made public!)<br />
<br />
Over the years, I've always chuckled a little bit when people have uttered (without knowing The Hubby's trade) something about the "biased media" or how "the media is this or that." I tried not to let it offend me because I'm also good at stereotyping and blanket statements... but I want to tell you a different side of the news media. <br />
<br />
I want to tell you about my Husband... the story teller... <br />
... who agonized when he had to go interview you after your high-school aged son died on the football practice field. <br />
... who covered the funeral of your daughter that was killed after a gun fell out of your pocket, and then sobbed with the photographer in the truck afterwards.<br />
... who knocked on your door to tell the story of your husband that died serving our country. <br />
<br />
My Husband, your news guy, carried those stories home with him. They changed him, and they are a large part of his decision to leave the business. As hard as they were, he loved those stories... telling the legacies of those people, those places, those moments... factual, unbiased, real. He cried. He prayed. He held our kids and me a little tighter. Your lives shaped ours, and we are thankful. I am thankful. <br />
<br />
As he has been wrapping things up these last few weeks, the emails of encouragement, support and well-wishes have been trickling in. The few he has shared with me have been precious, beautiful, sacred. <br />
<br />
In John 15:5, Jesus said, “<strong>I am the vine, you are the branches</strong>.Whoever remains in me, and I in him, will bear much fruit; for you can do
nothing without me.”<br />
<br />
I'm hopeful that his viewers and co-workers will remember him this way... as his other childhood dream... a farmer... bearing Fruit, divine fruit. <br />
<br />
Did he get angry and lose his temper? Sure! And then he came home and re-thought his actions and words... and how he would or should "right" them. <br />
He wrote cards to so many of the people he interviewed... who let him into their homes, their pain, their joy. <br />
He even stopped by and prayed with interviewees, long after the story was over and the media stopped talking about it. <br />
<br />
<em>Dustin- You are nothing short of incredible. You have given it your all for 8 years, and I'm so proud of what you've done. You are so good at telling great stories, and equally humble in accepting accolades. You have enjoyed your co-workers, but never let them settle for being "okay" at what they do... always trying to push the "product" to the next level. You have been in more homes in Michiana than your Realtor wife, and have more loyal followers than you or I will ever really know. I have loved rehashing stories with you... rewriting them, reliving them. You have always been way too hard on yourself. So, sign off tomorrow night, Love, with confidence and joy knowing you've been a very Fruitful Branch.</em> <br />
<strong></strong><br />
And, just as Edward R. Murrow said at the end of a broadcast in 1940, "Good night, and good luck." Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01617477562023917135noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5569366435536383785.post-24515868650960110472012-08-24T20:33:00.001-07:002012-09-03T19:22:23.059-07:00Running for HER life<span style="color: black;">I've said it once, and I'll say it again: I'm a wanna-be runner. I look a fool when I run. I feel like I could die due to a lack of oxygen. I begrudgingly strap on my shoes and dream up any excuse I can to get out of it. I am not a runner, and though my Dad won a state championship that involved running while he was in high school, those genes skipped my body.</span><br />
<span style="color: black;"></span><br />
<span style="color: black;">Luckily, for me, The Hubby is a runner. To him, it's a stress reliever. And, his "hobby running" is straight up motivation for my two-kids-have-been-carried-full-term-on-these-hips figure.</span><br />
<span style="color: black;"></span><br />
<span style="color: black;">I ran my first half marathon when The Girl was 9 months old. I sort-of trained. My second half-marathon... well, I had no business running that one. I think I ran about 10 miles total in "training." My third half-marathon was fun. I did it with my sister. Enough said. </span><br />
<span style="color: black;"></span><br />
<span style="color: black;">A few months ago some friends and I were talking about running a half-marathon together. We decided on the first-ever </span><a href="http://purduehalf.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: black;">Purdue Half Marathon</span></a><span style="color: black;"> and then discovered an organization called </span><a href="http://asourown.org/" target="_blank"><span style="color: black;">As Our Own</span></a><span style="color: black;">. In a nutshell, they rescue little girls born to women working in brothels in India... and raise them "as their own." We worked to get the Purdue Half Marathon on the list of sponsor races this year for As Our Own, and it now is! WOOT WOOT! And, we just met our girl. </span><br />
<span style="color: black;"></span><br />
<span style="color: black;">We're running for Neelu.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #53565a; font-size: 10pt;">"Neelu is 15 years old and is in the 9th grade. She has a knack for keeping things neat and organized. <strong>Neelu loves to spend time with her sisters.</strong> Here tender heart is hungry to know God through worship and the Bible, and she would like to attend seminary for a future in serving others. She is passionate to go wherever God leads her!</span><br />
<span style="color: #53565a; font-size: 10pt;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #53565a; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: #53565a; font-size: 10pt;">Once a child is rescued into our family, she becomes an irreplaceable member. <strong>She is not up for adoption, because she has a permanent place of belonging, right here with us.</strong> She's ours to love, nurture, teach, and enjoy. For life." </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #53565a; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: #53565a; font-size: 10pt;"></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #53565a; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: #53565a; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: black;">Neelu is a real girl. She is living a life that I cannot fathom right now, and I certainly couldn't have imagined when I was her age... headed into my freshman year at Harrison High School in West Lafayette. </span><br />
<span style="color: black;"></span><br />
<span style="color: black;">I am still a wanna-be. I still look funny when I run. I still can't breathe, and I still run a 12 minute mile. But I no longer do it for me. It's not about my figure, my weight, or fitting into my "skinny jeans." Every time I put on my shoes, I think of a sweet girl on the other side of the world who needs to escape her current reality. I think of Neelu, a 15-year-old girl, whom I will likely never meet while on this earth. </span><br />
<span style="color: black;"></span><br />
<span style="color: black;">She is real. I'm running for HER life. </span><br />
<span style="color: black;"></span><br />
<span style="color: black;">Will you support Team Indianapolis? </span><a href="https://iwillrun.myetap.org/fundraiser/teamindianapolis/"><span style="color: black;">https://iwillrun.myetap.org/fundraiser/teamindianapolis/</span></a>Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01617477562023917135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5569366435536383785.post-90254325172010939932012-07-18T19:25:00.000-07:002012-07-18T19:25:01.620-07:00Birthday Banner<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
There's a birthday coming, and with it comes my incessant need to create a tradition. I know. That's the dumbest thing ever. But it's true. With every event, or holiday, or moment, I find myself losing sleep over how to either a) capture the "moment" or b) to be able to recreate it. And, lets be honest, the best, most long-standing traditions are not ones that have been conjured up in someones head, or read on someones Pinterest board. They're sudden, spur-of-the-moment, not-intended-to-be-sacred, pauses in time. (Like my family's tradition to watch the very wholesome, family movie "Christmas Vacation" on the eve of the birth of our Savior every year. Don't judge.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Anywho, as I was perusing FB a few months ago, I saw a photo of a girlfriend's daughter on her b-day, sitting in her highchair with a subtly decorated kitchen in the background. This stuck out to me because said girlfriend was preparing for the big b-day shindig... which was to be over the upcoming weekend. And then I realized, she decorated her kitchen (nothing over-the-top) for THE birthday. The actual day this precious girl left the womb was being celebrated by her Mama, her Daddy and her little sister. Oh yes, the party was to follow, but they didn't miss The Day. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Duh. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It sounds so simple. It is so simple. But I've missed it. Don't get me wrong, we have b-day morning photos, and make a huge deal out of the entire day that the b-day party is taking place, but the D-A-T-E has been overlooked. Drat.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And then came the light bulb! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As I looked back through old photos of The Girl, I realized I have a great "cake" photo of her from all 3 previous birthdays. What fun! A birthday banner! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Each year, I'm going to take that sacred "cake photo" and add it on to this simple, I'm-not-a-scrapbooker banner. And, just to kick it up a notch, a few things will be included on the backside: How we celebrated; What she asked for; and Her own signature (or an outline of her hand if she's too young to write.) </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This is a great, simple way for me to catch a moment, without having to maintain a scrapbook. It will also store easily, and make for great decorations (and conversation starters?) in years to follow. To make it extra-suspenseful, I'm going to bring out each "pendant" that many days before her birthday each year. (ie. 3 days before her b-day I'll hang up her 3rd Birthday Pendant, and so on...)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eaClFYyyYOE/UAdrRhQ-gAI/AAAAAAAAAq8/CTltbmcimFI/s1600/2012-07-18+20.52.01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eaClFYyyYOE/UAdrRhQ-gAI/AAAAAAAAAq8/CTltbmcimFI/s320/2012-07-18+20.52.01.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YwRzcEsqg6U/UAdrbK_B2KI/AAAAAAAAArE/WNB7CZZnyzk/s1600/2012-07-18+20.51.32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YwRzcEsqg6U/UAdrbK_B2KI/AAAAAAAAArE/WNB7CZZnyzk/s320/2012-07-18+20.51.32.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GaMstiNoqXw/UAdrlgvqOiI/AAAAAAAAArQ/oZfS2FoJo1s/s1600/2012-07-18+20.51.37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GaMstiNoqXw/UAdrlgvqOiI/AAAAAAAAArQ/oZfS2FoJo1s/s320/2012-07-18+20.51.37.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Giv6BgocPz8/UAdrxYsw0AI/AAAAAAAAArY/479NUR8fOuk/s1600/2012-07-18+20.51.46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Giv6BgocPz8/UAdrxYsw0AI/AAAAAAAAArY/479NUR8fOuk/s320/2012-07-18+20.51.46.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CWsgshE0iCk/UAdr7B37sKI/AAAAAAAAArg/AqgufP0KaaI/s1600/2012-07-18+21.00.15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CWsgshE0iCk/UAdr7B37sKI/AAAAAAAAArg/AqgufP0KaaI/s320/2012-07-18+21.00.15.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Time to go and make #1 for The Boy.Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01617477562023917135noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5569366435536383785.post-56004682278242578912012-07-18T18:46:00.001-07:002012-07-18T18:51:06.216-07:00Nothing spells LOVE like B-B-Q<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Since about mid-May, I've had the pleasure of putting many "Pins" to use as my sister-in-law and I planned a <a href="http://www.peartreegreetings.com/Wedding/Bridal-Shower-Invitations/2775-11239FC-Bridal-BBQ--Couples-Bridal-Shower-Invitations.pro#.T5HEUO_dni8.pinterest" target="_blank">couples BBQ wedding shower</a> for her brother/my brother-in-law and our new (almost) sister! The trickiest part of this whole deal was finding adorable things on Pinterest and attempting to find sneaky ways to get them to one another to read/check-out-- without the Bride seeing what we were up to!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Anyway, here's how things ended up. It was a great evening with friends and family. And, as much as I wanted to pray against rain, I took one for the farmers and told the Lord we could squeeze the tables inside if need be. However, as you all know, that was not an issue... and we continue to wait for the rain.</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As our guests arrived, we had each couple fill out a <a href="http://emmalinebride.com/decor/mad-lib-guest-book/" target="_blank">hilarious Mad-libs</a> pertaining to wedding advice for the couple. They were read aloud as the couple-of-honor opened their gifts. <br />
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-syqZ34xnzfw/UAdd2cMSHaI/AAAAAAAAAqY/xjfSxate--Y/s1600/DSC_7026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-syqZ34xnzfw/UAdd2cMSHaI/AAAAAAAAAqY/xjfSxate--Y/s320/DSC_7026.JPG" width="212" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Apparently a few shower guests thought these were real "sliders." They're actually a yellow cupcake cut in half, with half of a chocolate cupcake stacked inside as the "burger." A little yellow icing (mustard)... a little red icing (ketchup) and a toothpick... and voila! (Props to my friend <a href="http://twocrazycoaches.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Mrs. R</a> who made these for The Girl's 1st b-day and coached me along as I attempted to remake her art.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1-ATZ4ZzCpU/UAdccvZNKUI/AAAAAAAAApA/xpJD7-wL78E/s1600/DSC_6983.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1-ATZ4ZzCpU/UAdccvZNKUI/AAAAAAAAApA/xpJD7-wL78E/s320/DSC_6983.JPG" width="212" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This simple/inexpensive piece of decor was not a Pinterest find thankyouverymuch! I hijacked the Bride & Groom's Facebook photos. Then, I printed them at Sam's Club. Finally, with some hemp and clothespins I had in my crafting "stash," we hung them as a backdrop.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nKFLVcjvFqg/UAdcoRs4OmI/AAAAAAAAApM/C1Ae3zzuUaQ/s1600/DSC_6992.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nKFLVcjvFqg/UAdcoRs4OmI/AAAAAAAAApM/C1Ae3zzuUaQ/s320/DSC_6992.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
One of the main reasons we chose to do a BBQ (besides having an awesome park-like backyard) was because of this... <a href="http://blog.hwtm.com/2012/06/pub-style-grillers-growlers-party-smores-bar/" target="_blank">S'MORES BAR for dessert</a>! We hunted around our local grocers to find out what sorts of marshmallow flavorings they offered (strawberry, toasted coconut and jumbo) and then came up with the menu (see next photo.) <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SNtQsTo_Vsw/UAdcySYOBYI/AAAAAAAAApU/6djx2eYWuHE/s1600/DSC_6993.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SNtQsTo_Vsw/UAdcySYOBYI/AAAAAAAAApU/6djx2eYWuHE/s320/DSC_6993.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Thankfully, my FIL was thinking ahead and thought to call the police department who <a href="http://slowdownstacy.blogspot.com/2012/05/embrace-pace.html" target="_blank">Embrace the Pace</a> to see how the burn ban would affect this main-piece of our party. Luckily, we got the go-ahead. Phew!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-INK-rZ6hwZk/UAdc6MCv3EI/AAAAAAAAApc/hLuNYQioJy4/s1600/DSC_6994.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-INK-rZ6hwZk/UAdc6MCv3EI/AAAAAAAAApc/hLuNYQioJy4/s320/DSC_6994.JPG" width="212" /></a></div>
<br />
I've decided when having a buffet, either a menu or placards in front of each "dish" are helpful to guests. We went with a menu. <a href="http://overcocktails.blogspot.com/2009/09/backyard-bbq-to-nines.html" target="_blank">Pre-wrapped silverware with a "dig-in" tag</a> was a fun, whimsical touch, too. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T3w2S35Hh20/UAddBZ1LeGI/AAAAAAAAApk/gsP1yLEdstM/s1600/DSC_7000.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T3w2S35Hh20/UAddBZ1LeGI/AAAAAAAAApk/gsP1yLEdstM/s320/DSC_7000.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DODh1qNrAsQ/UAdkfdJJsfI/AAAAAAAAAqw/WnLMhyHQ5Sc/s1600/DSC_6995.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DODh1qNrAsQ/UAdkfdJJsfI/AAAAAAAAAqw/WnLMhyHQ5Sc/s320/DSC_6995.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
And, to keep with our theme, we labeled mason jars and encouraged guests to write their name on their jar and <a href="http://ruffledblog.com//vintage-wedding-blog/classic-black-tie-wedding/traditional-elegance-wedding-76.jpg" target="_blank">keep it "in sight</a>."<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kwMq_vYZSv0/UAddKcVM3dI/AAAAAAAAAps/fk2yVabDH_g/s1600/DSC_7004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kwMq_vYZSv0/UAddKcVM3dI/AAAAAAAAAps/fk2yVabDH_g/s320/DSC_7004.JPG" width="212" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Wcqe9gPue8U/UAddS9hLmBI/AAAAAAAAAp4/SgFCFZ3dD4I/s1600/DSC_7006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Wcqe9gPue8U/UAddS9hLmBI/AAAAAAAAAp4/SgFCFZ3dD4I/s320/DSC_7006.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The other hostess helped with putting pens in all the centerpieces so we wouldn't have to go on a mad-hunt when game time came around. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2RrZ6RvE2jY/UAddbjNgoPI/AAAAAAAAAqA/JdI-j6YJlZE/s1600/DSC_7009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2RrZ6RvE2jY/UAddbjNgoPI/AAAAAAAAAqA/JdI-j6YJlZE/s320/DSC_7009.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Centerpieces were: <a href="http://www.momtastic.com/home-and-living/home/167807-diy-fourth-of-july-star-jars" target="_blank">mason jars spray-painted with stained glass paint</a>, <a href="http://www.bumpsmitten.com/2011/06/real-baby-shower-oh-baby.html" target="_blank">aluminum cans wrapped in scrapbook paper</a>, and sitting on a round piece of scrapbook paper. All were placed on a tablecloth of "butcher-block" paper, purchased by the roll at Dollar Tree. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZkS5AHs16IM/UAddjFe9eJI/AAAAAAAAAqI/Nir-Ju2A2Jg/s1600/DSC_7008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZkS5AHs16IM/UAddjFe9eJI/AAAAAAAAAqI/Nir-Ju2A2Jg/s320/DSC_7008.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
And there you have it. Behind me (as I was taking this photo) were yard games: corn hole, ladder ball and horseshoes. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4HF0vM1cTRo/UAddtUuBYDI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/XmD2Shtmb2I/s1600/DSC_7015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4HF0vM1cTRo/UAddtUuBYDI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/XmD2Shtmb2I/s320/DSC_7015.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This was so much fun to plan. It was especially fun because: 1) I live with my in-laws and don't currently have a home/yard to manage. 2) I live with my in-laws and have help with my children. and 3) I live with my in-laws and am not presently working. So, what I'm saying is, I'll likely never in my life have the time I presently do to devote to an event like this. It was fun ;)Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01617477562023917135noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5569366435536383785.post-53727370927962718562012-07-16T18:19:00.001-07:002012-07-16T18:19:50.763-07:00Marinated Green Beans1 1/2 lbs fresh green beans, trimmed<br />
3/4 C white vinegar<br />
1/4 C sugar<br />
2 Tbsp vegetable oil<br />
1 clove garlic, minced<br />
3/4 tsp salt<br />
1/2 tsp pepper<br />
1 small red onion, thinly sliced<br />
<br />
1. Cook beans in boiling water to cover 4 to 5 minutes or until crisp-tender; drain. Plunge into ice water to stop the cooking process, drain. <br />
2. Whisk together vinegar and next 5 ingredients in a large bowl; add beans and onion, tossing to coat. Cover and chill 4 hours. Serve with a slotted spoon. <br />
<br />
Yield: 4-6 servingsMehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01617477562023917135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5569366435536383785.post-84073036712478164032012-07-16T18:16:00.000-07:002012-07-16T18:16:01.577-07:00Corn/Tomato/Avocado SaladMy sister-in-laws sister gave me this recipe about 8 years ago, and it has been a crowd pleaser ever since. <br />
<br />
4 ears of corn, cooked & taken off cob (or 3 cans corn "nibblets", drained)<br />
1 pt. cherry tomatoes, halved<br />
1/4C red onion, chopped<br />
4 oz. Monterrey jack cheese, cubed<br />
1 avocado, cut into chunks<br />
<br />
Place above ingredients in a bowl together. <br />
<br />
In a separate bowl, combine: <br />
2 Tbsp olive oil<br />
1 Tbsp lime juice<br />
2 tsp sugar<br />
1/4 tsp salt<br />
1/2 tsp cumin<br />
1 clove garlic<br />
<br />
Whisk or shake together until well mixed. Pour over corn mixture and stir until covered. Chill about an hour before serving. Can be made the night before.Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01617477562023917135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5569366435536383785.post-16008086939481639902012-07-16T18:09:00.002-07:002012-07-16T18:16:24.862-07:00Chocolate Eclair CakeWhen Mom used to ask me what kind of b-day cake I wanted, this was my request. OH YUM!<br />
<br />
2 (3 ounce) packages instant vanilla pudding mix<br />
<div class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">
3 cups milk</div>
<div class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">
1 (8 ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed</div>
<div class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">
1 (16 ounce) package graham crackers</div>
<div class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">
1 (16 ounce) package prepared chocolate frosting</div>
<div class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">
<br /></div>
<ol>
<li><div class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">
In a large bowl, combine pudding mix and 3 cups milk; mix well. Fold in whipped topping and beat with mixer for 2 minutes. </div>
</li>
<li><div class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">
<span class="plaincharacterwrap break">In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a layer of graham crackers on the bottom of the dish. </span><span class="plaincharacterwrap break"></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">
<span class="plaincharacterwrap break">Spread 1/2 of the pudding mixture over crackers, then top with graham crackers. Spread remaining pudding over crackers; top second pudding layer with another layer of crackers.</span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">
<span class="plaincharacterwrap break">Microwave frosting for 30 seconds. Stir carefully (It overflows easily.) Pour over top layer of crackers and spread evenly. </span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">
<span class="plaincharacterwrap break">Cover. Refrigerate overnight, or at least 12 hours before serving. </span></div>
</li>
</ol>Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01617477562023917135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5569366435536383785.post-18219067049748859722012-07-03T06:02:00.000-07:002012-07-03T06:03:08.168-07:00Journal starter<em>Reflect back to elementary school. You there? Okay-- did your teacher (circa 4th or 5th grade) ever give you "journal starters" to spark a creative writing exercise? The one I most easily recall went something like... "On my summer vacation I..." We would then be encouraged to write without stopping... to let the creative words flow. </em><br />
<br />
Okay. Back to present day. <br />
<br />
This morning at my mom's I was reading a coffee table book she got from my cousin Hasso, who is raising support to go full time with <a href="http://www.wycliffe.org/" target="_blank">Wycliffe Bible Translators</a>. The book is called "Worship The Global Hallelujah" and it's infused with scripture, photos, quotes and ... journal starters!<br />
<br />
This one caught my attention, and I plan to spend time pondering it:<strong> "If at the end of my life God showed me what my worship of Him looked like, here is what I'd want to see..."</strong> <br />
<br />
I can immediately think of what I don't want to see. It's selfish. It focus on MY wants, MY emotions, MY needs. What I want to see when worshiping the Author and Creator of my life should have nothing to do with me. <br />
<br />
In their book, Wycliffe suggest worship is: <br />
-what we were created for.<br />
-expressing our love to God.<br />
-God's children gathering to proclaim His faithfulness. <br />
-both quiet trusting and loud proclaiming of God's eternal Word. <br />
-the flow of God's Spirit through lives of those who depend on Him. <br />
-welcoming God to change us. <br />
-surrendering our will to God's will. <br />
-both a personal experience and a shared experience. <br />
-proclaiming the victory of Christ in the midst of difficulties. <br />
-praising God no matter where we are or who we are. <br />
... just to name a few.<br />
<br />
So I'll ask you again, <strong>"If at the end of my life God showed me what my worship of Him looked like, here is what I'd want to see..."</strong><br />
<br />
<em>Boys and girls, you have 15 minutes to complete this task. I should hear no talking, and your pencils should keep moving the entire time. You don't have to write in complete sentences. Just jot down whatever comes to mind. You may stop writing when the bell rings.</em>Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01617477562023917135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5569366435536383785.post-80336309618791418432012-06-25T17:44:00.000-07:002012-06-25T17:44:07.371-07:00The beastThere's an animal lurking around our home. It's not like the 20 in. corn snake found in my brother & sister-in-laws family room last week. No, this is much, much scarier than that. And, it rears its ugly head at a moments notice. There's no rhyme or reason... it's just untrained. And it's ferocious. Even without lungs, it is harming people ... sometimes daily. <br />
<br />
It's my tongue. <br />
<br />
I'm working on memorizing Ephesians 4:29<em> "Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear."</em><br />
<br />
Building up? Giving grace? Not even close. <br />
<br />
Last night, mindlessly, I said something to The Hubby that was just rude, unkind, and completely untrue about him. I called him a name... and I was joking... but it was just unnecessary. My man knows me well enough to know I was joking, but it was another nail hole in his fence. (Ever heard that story... when you hurt someone it's like you put a nail in their fence... and though you may apologize and ask for forgiveness... and the nail comes out... the hole in the fence remains for a while. I like to think that eventually Jesus comes by with His wood putty and fills in the hole... but its rarely immediate.) <br />
<br />
I love My Hubby. He's the man of my dreams. But what I said to him was a low blow. <br />
<br />
When I started working on this verse I was thinking gossip. What I realized after last night's exchange is that it's not what I'm saying behind people's backs that's hurting them-- gossip isn't really my thing. It's the coarseness with which I'm saying things to people ... as I look them in the eye. <br />
<br />
I KNOW?! BEASTLY! <br />
<br />
So, why am I telling you? #1) Beware if you're near me. This thing is ugly! It comes out at the most random of moments and it will chew you up and spit you out in nothing flat. Ask My Hubby! On second thought, don't. Please. I don't want to relive it, or have him relive it, ever again. #2) Call me out on this, people! This is not right. Shoot the beast! Kill the beast! <br />
<br />
With all this said, I'm adding a few more verses to my "soon to be memorized" list: <br />
<em>"May my tongue cling to the roof of my mouth if I do not remember you..."</em> -Psalm 137:6<br />
<em>"When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise."</em> -Proverbs 10:19<br />
<em>"He who guards his mouth and his tongue keeps himself from calamity."</em> -Proverbs 21:23<br />
<br />
And the most painful, but most important ones as I attempt to kill this beast...<br />
<strong><em>"If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless."</em></strong> -James 1:26 (My testimony is at stake! I refuse to waste all that God has done in my life!)<br />
... and <strong><em>James 3:1-12</em></strong>. Ouch. Ouch. Ouch. <br />
<br />
So there you have it. Guns are blazin'. Kill the beast.Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01617477562023917135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5569366435536383785.post-50707948351709888242012-06-19T20:30:00.000-07:002012-06-19T20:30:38.177-07:00Our current reality<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We have a really good gig right now. My gracious MIL & FIL opened their home to allow the four of us to move in while we hover between old life and new life. (By move in, I mean utilize 2 of 4 bedrooms, an entire playroom and most every inch of closet space in the house.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
About a week before we moved in, they started on a dream they had when they purchased this home... an awesome, gigantic family room addition. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here's what it looked like about 3 weeks ago...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uKR1D26TxcM/T-E_qm3lgSI/AAAAAAAAAoQ/xVgjzlNH7Es/s1600/074.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uKR1D26TxcM/T-E_qm3lgSI/AAAAAAAAAoQ/xVgjzlNH7Es/s320/074.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Last week, The Girl and I spent a few days in Lafayette, as she had a very important event.... "Pretty Princess Dance Camp." Before we left, The Hubby & FIL started dismantling the wall between the kitchen and the dining room portion of the addition. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here's what it looked like when we left...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qfnEs6jQYAA/T-FAHNvcVLI/AAAAAAAAAok/-aResY6CZLg/s1600/2012-06-09+17.47.09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qfnEs6jQYAA/T-FAHNvcVLI/AAAAAAAAAok/-aResY6CZLg/s320/2012-06-09+17.47.09.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And this is our current reality... </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FLbEMhEFaNg/T-E_3YXKI0I/AAAAAAAAAoc/2Ma8mxiDJ14/s1600/2012-06-19+14.45.47.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FLbEMhEFaNg/T-E_3YXKI0I/AAAAAAAAAoc/2Ma8mxiDJ14/s320/2012-06-19+14.45.47.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
There is no denying that this is going to be one SWEET hang out when all is said and done. However, there are some minor pains along the way. Namely... well... see that plastic wall in the photo above?<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Check out what's on the other side of it...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CmLutSeGEpc/T-FATNg3QsI/AAAAAAAAAos/lMfDwlOPFYQ/s1600/2012-06-19+14.48.32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CmLutSeGEpc/T-FATNg3QsI/AAAAAAAAAos/lMfDwlOPFYQ/s320/2012-06-19+14.48.32.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
That would be the oven and cook top. :)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Now, in God's sovereignty, this is all going down in the peak of grilling season. And, FIL loves himself some grillin'. I also happen to be very fond of my crock pot, so that's great. And, MIL woke up yesterday and remembered she has an electric skillet. SCORE! So, we're inconvenienced... for a 2nd week.... and all a little edgy when there isn't marked advancement at the end of a days work... but we're not going hungry. </div>
<br />
And, we're starting to see the beginnings of many family holidays come to light in one, special room...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--6m-CS4gfJ8/T-FAfY2qKuI/AAAAAAAAAo0/ii_JlQ6N--Y/s1600/2012-06-19+14.48.50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--6m-CS4gfJ8/T-FAfY2qKuI/AAAAAAAAAo0/ii_JlQ6N--Y/s320/2012-06-19+14.48.50.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01617477562023917135noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5569366435536383785.post-34506973858554004352012-06-18T20:45:00.001-07:002012-06-18T20:45:30.400-07:00Crockpot Enchilada Casserole3 Tbsp diced green chili's<br />
1/2 C mild salsa<br />
1/4 C chopped green onion<br />
1/4 C chopped fresh cilantro<br />
15 oz can- black beans, drained<br />
11 oz can- yellow corn, with red and green bell peppers, drained<br />
10 oz can- enchilada sauce<br />
2 large eggs<br />
1 box Jiffy corn muffin mix<br />
1 1/2 C shredded Mexican four-cheese blend<br />
<br />
1. Stir together chilies & next 6 ingredients in a lightly greased 4 qt. slow cooker. Cover and cook on low 3 hours. <br />
2. Whisk 2 eggs in a medium bowl, stir in muffin mix. Spoon batter over bean mixture in slow cooker. Cover and cook on low 1 hour or until cornbread is done. <br />
3. Sprinkle cheese over cornbread. Increase heat to high; cover and cook 5 minutes or until cheese melts. Spoon into shallow bowls. Garnish with sour cream, chopped fresh cilantro, if desired.Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01617477562023917135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5569366435536383785.post-53025791115999863852012-06-18T20:35:00.001-07:002012-06-18T20:45:51.689-07:00Layered Southwestern Salad3 C torn lettuce<br />
15 oz can- kidney beans, rinsed & drained<br />
15 oz can- black beans, rinsed & drained<br />
12 oz. can- no salt added corn, drained<br />
1/4 C chopped red onion<br />
1 C nonfat or low-fat sour cream<br />
1/4 C chopped fresh cilantro<br />
2 Tbsp white wine vinegar<br />
1 Tbsp lime juice<br />
1/4 tsp salt<br />
1/8 tsp pepper<br />
1 C shredded low-fat cheddar cheese<br />
<br />
Place lettuce in the bottom of a large, shallow clear glass bowl or baking dish. Add the following layers in the order listed: beans, corn and onion. Set aside. <br />
In a small bowl, stir together sour cream, cilantro, vinegar, lime, salt and pepper. Spread evenly over top of salad. Sprinkle with cheese. Cover and chill for 1 to 24 hours. <br />
Stir and mix well just prior to serving.Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01617477562023917135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5569366435536383785.post-44762599199664462912012-06-10T09:00:00.000-07:002012-06-10T09:02:27.302-07:00940 SaturdaysFriday night in my most-recent Readers Digest, I read this: <br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">940</span></strong>: The number of Saturdays between the day your child is born and the time he or she turns 18. The phrase might serve as a reminder to cherish the time you have with your child and use it wisely. <br />
-From <em>No Regrets Parenting</em> by Harley Rotbart, MD<br />
<br />
Wow. Only 940? That doesn't seem like many! <br />
<br />
When we got pregnant with The Boy, The Hubby started a Saturday morning tradition with The Girl in which the two of them went on a doughnut expedition. Each Saturday, they'd wake up and ditch me to go and find the most wonderful of puffy, filled, iced confections. Not only did I get an hour or so to myself, but they got their much needed one-on-one time and most of the time they remembered to bring me one, too ;) In the end it was a win for all parties involved. <br />
<br />
Now, it's a family affair. Most Saturdays, no matter what city we're in, we get up, get dressed, and let the hunt begin. <br />
<br />
I did some math after reading this statistic (don't worry, I used a calculator) and discovered that we only have 732 Saturdays left with The Girl. WHAT? How is that even possible? In four short years we've whittled away more than 200! (Hold in the tears. Hold in the tears. Hold in the tears.) <br />
<br />
Immediately, I was convicted (once again) of my selfishness. Just that morning, The Hubby had been invited by my FIL to go play a round of golf. SELFISHLY, I wanted to cross my arms, stop my foot and say, "I've been here with these yahoos all week... the three of us REALLY need you here... for our sanity... and you want to go be away from us for 4.5 hours of swinging a stick with your Dad?" <br />
<br />
And then it hit me. <br />
<br />
"... with your Dad." <br />
<br />
You see, the thing is, even though they've already had their 940 Saturdays, I had the opportunity to allow them both #941 or #1265, or #1560. It wasn't about "leaving us." It was about time away, not working, to unwind, exercise, laugh and talk ... with his Dad. <br />
<br />
So ... what are you doing with the 940 "Saturdays" you've got with your kids? Are you making memories? Are you doing chores as a family? Are you realizing there are only 52/year? (Lets not get all legalistic here, your "Saturday" might very well be Thursday, or Monday, or whatever day works into your family schedule!) <br />
<br />
The point is will your son or daughter one day want to come back to your home and continue to have that special one-on-one time? Will they crave the warm feeling in their heart when they think of the fun, silly, spontaneous, ritual, SACRED things you did together at least once a week? Will they want to build those moments into their family life someday? <br />
<br />
I hope so... for both your kids and mine.Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01617477562023917135noreply@blogger.com2