The Stuff Of Dreams And Life

Free

2011-07-12T23:15:00.000-05:00

Back in April, after the tornadoes struck, we had a family of 6 staying with us for a week because their power was out. Shall we say some resources were....depleted?

But when I made my purchase of Charmin to replenish my supply, I opened the pack to find a missing roll.

I wrote Charmin a cute little note. They wrote me back. They mailed me a coupon.

I purchased this package of Charmin tonight for $9.29 and used my coupon to get it for free.

I love my friends at Charmin!

He Looks Pretty

2011-07-11T21:23:00.000-05:00

Have you ever toured a historic house to relive a bit of the history and lifestyle of people from days long passed?

I love them. As a child, I remember visiting a few and those memories rank near the top of my favorite childhood travel experiences. As a wife, I've dragged my husband through far more than he would care to recount. He just likes to break the rules in that type of place by playing the piano, or ducking under the velvet rope, or taking photographs, or touching the furniture, or…

I adore the architecture. The history moves me. The antique linens and books woo me. I am in awe. This makes history come alive. This is what life was like. But I can see it with my own eyes. I can touch it, almost taste it. Stepping across the threshold of a home built a century or more ago is as if I've stepped into a different time. As if I'm present with the house, with its people.

Sadly, many of these homes have been polluted with things that have changed their welcoming nature, like red velvet ropes and signage that displays the rules, modern amenities and replacement furnishings that hail from the period, but whose history don't belong to this house.

These houses have been reshaped into something having a form or likeness of the original, but lacks the original beauty, charm, presence. People have added and taken away from the matchless beginning of what once was and often, the heritage seems lost. It doesn't seem real.

But I'm not satisfied with the average tour. It just leaves me longing for more.

I want to roll back time and explore these places unfettered by the velvet rope, throwing up the wavy glass windows to feel the magnificent cross breezes for myself. I want to unfurl the bed linens and curl into the bed with an antique book and while the afternoon away. I want to punch down dough in that old wooden bread bowl in the kitchen. I want to sit on the back steps overlooking the garden, quiet, to daydream. I want to explore and discover the home's treasures and secrets, maybe hiding places, or secret passage ways. I want to know the life of the home as it was. Not as it's been recreated to be.

I don't want to stand on the other side of the velvet rope. I don't want to see the house made up into something it never was intended for. I don't want to be told I can't go up the stairs or that I can't take pictures. I don't want to be ushered through in a hurry when all I want is to linger, lost in the past of that place.

This is how I want to know Jesus.

I want to love him for who he was when he walked ancient dirt roads, when he made people whole by his touch, when he taught the masses through common storytelling and shared bread, when his robe was simple homespun. When he was real.

I don't want to know him clouded by religion, parted from history by the distance of time and the fabrication of man. I don't want to know Jesus as my culture and society tells me of Him.

In truth, I think I want to know him in the same daring, unafraid way my husband visits these houses. I want to unhook that velvet rope designed to only let me see him, to get close, but not close enough to touch him…and slip gleefully right into Jesus' arms. Much to the dismay of stuffy curators, perhaps, but to his delight, for certain.

Jesus hasn't changed. We've changed him. We've made him into many things he is not.

But he looks pretty, right?

No Matter How Hard

2011-07-06T08:47:00.001-05:00

Photo Death Road, Source: http://pixdaus.com/single.php?id=116451

I had a dream last night about a long and sideways road I was expected to travel home by. It was so steep and crooked, it terrified me. I took one look at that road and said, "I can't do it."

This morning as I reflected on that dream and how it shook me, the thought occurred to me that there is no road carved out that cannot be traversed. Someone went that way before you and built the very road that lies ahead. You may not be able to see what's around the corner, what's over that steep and harrowing hilltop path. And you may be horrified by the sheer impossibility of getting from here to there, but you will make it to the top. Safe. Relieved. Confident in your strength.

Say to your self, "This road is nothing. I can do this."

Sounds of Freedom

2011-07-04T22:12:00.000-05:00

Every time I hear fireworks celebrating our holidays of freedom, I imagine that it is eerily similar to the sounds of war. I am thankful for two things tonight: that I can only imagine the sounds of war, and that it is the sounds of freedom outside my window tonight. Peace be upon you and your house tonight.

Creature Feature

2011-06-28T20:05:00.001-05:00

This expression melts away so many grievances!

Macy got to spend a little time exploring the carport some over the weekend.

Caesar gives her head a bath one minute and bites her the next. The social dynamics of kitties are almost as complex as the ones humans practice!

If this kitty is ever missing check behind the curtains in the dining room. She's basking in the bright afternoon sunlight.

Happy Birthday Sammy!

2011-06-19T21:32:00.000-05:00

"I love you best.

I love you most.

I love you high.

I love you low.

I love you deep.

I love you wide.

I love you this much!"

Sitting

2011-06-18T14:04:00.000-05:00

Sit!

They know what it means.

They can do it on command.

They can even do it in unison.

But they can't do it for long!

Summer's Bounty

2011-06-15T21:43:00.000-05:00

I desperately wanted to plant a garden of some sort this year. I still do.

But I have so many ~~reasons~~ excuses and it just hasn't happened. But one of my favorite little blessings of ministering in a country church is that there are wonderful people who don't have excuses and actually have a garden that helps sustain their families....and mine.

We got fresh picked, beautiful squash from two parishioners this week. Sammy joked, "Linda, I want squash for supper tomorrow night!"

Squash it is. Oh, yes.

Tail Spin

2011-04-17T21:39:00.000-05:00

We've been thinking about getting a buddy for Gus--we've been joking about getting the dog a pet!

This band of brothers was dropped off near some of our church members homes. We went to see about one, but surprisingly this softy (rather than the one I'm married to) said, "We can't just separate them like that, giving one a good home and leaving the other two for the pound....or worse."

So, we brought home all three. Two puppies are up for grabs, we're only keeping one. I hope. But in the meantime, they'll be safe and together. These are going to be some big dogs. They're already almost as big as Gus and they're still babies!

Here's what Caesar thinks of the new recruits:

"I know dogs are allergic to something."

On The Bedside Table

2011-04-13T22:34:00.000-05:00

What to read has been a quandary for me lately. I've started a lot of things, but I can't seem to get into any of them. It's so disheartening to start a book and not feel at home in it.

I had 6 books on my bedside table this morning. (Plus a Kindle.) But, I've decided to replace them all with just one.

Yes, I'm going to read through a Bible storybook meant for children.

If I can't get my heart around "grown up" things, maybe it's time to simplify.

This book and its stories are incredibly special.

I think I need it. A simple, uplifting message of God's love.

To restore wonder, bring peace, renew faith, and grow love in my needy heart.

And it's signed by the author, that's always nice!

Even On A Beautiful Day

2011-04-03T16:03:00.000-05:00

Even when the sky is bright,

Even when the breeze is gentle,

Even when the clouds are puffy,

Our worlds can crash around us,

Putting a threat of danger in the way,

Laughing in the face of our perceived

safety and comfort.

Becoming an obstacle in our way,

Something we must maneuver around, or through,

Or make war with.

Today, I'm thankful the only thing falling down around us is a tree limb

that fell right across our road, feet from our home and from two sets of power lines...

But it reminded me how suddenly we can be caught by surprise by what we're not expecting.

Kitty Cloth

2011-03-30T21:41:00.000-05:00

You want which tablecloth?

The one I'm sitting on?

Take it.

I dare you.

Pretend There's A "Y"

2011-03-22T20:46:00.000-05:00

A gift from Sammy.

We keep old Scrabble game pieces around and have fun playing with the letters.

I do have to admit I've never actually played a game of Scrabble.

Sweet Little Lies

2011-03-21T20:56:00.000-05:00

Sammy sometimes tells little lies. I usually know when he's doing it. Sometimes he gets one over on me, though.

One night, he was gone for hours and kept making excuses and stories about what he and a friend were doing. It ended up they had installed a new dishwasher at the house for me and it completely surprised me. I like lies like that!

Tonight, he told me he had decided not to grill the pork chops and just to let me do it when I got home. Now, I was going to have to rush supper because he had a church meeting.

But before we hung up, the little sneak confessed he had already fixed dinner, even grilled asparagus and mashed potatoes.

It's kind of funny, because we were out of milk, so Sammy substituted Silk for the mashed potatoes. Would you follow the link to see why I giggled half way home?

I love that lyin' cookin' man and his mashed potatoes too!

Lovely Day

2011-03-20T21:31:00.000-05:00

Nursery, church, estate sale, lunch with Momma and Sammy, home for a very little while,

church again, but it was a trip to the park, then home again, finally!

Now I'm trying to catch up on a few loads of laundry and I got the dishes done. There's still a lot of cleaning to do, because apparently houses don't clean themselves when you're sick. We're also still unpacking stuff from the youth trip we took last weekend. Work never ends, but at least we can't say we're bored!

Eleven

2011-03-19T07:00:00.001-05:00

Since most of our married life has been spent leading a church, we've had opportunities to observe and learn from people in every phase of life--all those phases that encompass the all too familiar wedding vows so many make: "To have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness or in health, to love and to cherish 'till death do us part."

We've had our own experiences, to be sure, but we've also helped others walk through theirs. Just today, Sammy helped a woman bury her husband of 62 years. I think in many ways it's given us a unique perspective and it's prepared us for those bumps in the road that everyone hits at one time or another.

Life will not always be beautiful, financially secure, peaceful, and it is far from the perfection you envision before you walk down the aisle toward forever with your love.

But there are so many moments that build lives. Beautiful moments, peaceful moments, perfect moments. Moments where there are no worries and life seems idyllic. You have to learn to cherish those moments and recognize when you've been given a gift worth celebrating in your lives together, because there is a reason those marriage vows cover the negative sides of life.

I'm going through a little seasonal sickness right now and to be perfectly honest, I haven't changed clothes in two days. Or brushed my hair. Or even my teeth. And yet somehow, Sammy can tell me he loves me.

And while I'm not entirely sure I understand how it's possible, I think love is this crazy thing that works best and is truest during trials, sickness and poorness. Maybe the good times nurture it, keep it going, steady and sure, but those low times and tough times put that love to work. There are not times when my love is more fierce than those times when the ones I love are sick, poor, defeated, under attack, lost. The really hard times are a testament to the strength of our love.

Love is beautiful, and it endures much that isn't. Today, my 11th year of marriage will be another chapter in our lives completed and a new one will begin. I couldn't be happier to share it, good and difficult, with Sammy.

I love you Sammy! Happy Anniversary!

Butterfly

2011-03-18T15:46:00.000-05:00

It took me a few days to notice it, but I spotted this little guy hiding on my fridge today.

Just a coffee filter and a little snip of ribbon.

Thanks for taking care of my babies while we were in Gatlinburg Momma!

Pizza Pasta!

2011-03-16T21:26:00.000-05:00

I love meals that are easy to throw together but completely satisfying.

For this one, just cook a pound of pasta, toss with a jar of your favorite spaghetti sauce.

Stir in some veggies. Or not. I used a small onion, some red and yellow bell pepper and mushrooms.

Top with cheese and pepperoni.

Bake just until pepperoni is toasted and cheese is melted.

This will fill a 9 x 13 inch pan.

Yum!

Strong

2011-03-08T21:48:00.000-06:00

I watched a momma and her little girl get ready to leave the store and brave the dash across the parking lot in the cold rain. The mom handed her daughter a bag of toilet tissue and asked her, "can you handle it?" The little girl replied, "I'm strong!"

I laughed to myself, as I pondered her confidence. How small her strength seemed to me and how light her little load would be if I were the one carrying it. I'm so much stronger than she is. But, there was no doubt or shadow of uncertainty in her brave little mind. She was strong (even though she struggled under all the weight of her burden, trying hard not to need help).

And in that moment, I felt I could see God. He was smiling at a little girl too, chuckling even. Except the little girl whose strength was small to Him, whose burden He could easily bear if she would receive His help, was not really so small herself. She is strong, yes. But the Lord can carry so much more than she can.

I do need Your help, Father. Carry my burdens for me. But thank you for not chiding me for trying to be strong and carrying too much. I'm glad I make you smile even in my weakness wrapped with stubbornness. Remind me how good it feels when someone helps you carry your things. And Lord? I needed to see Your smile tonight. I forget sometimes that You do that, smile on us. But you do. I love you. Ahh-men!

Coupon Class

2011-02-27T22:14:00.000-06:00

My mom and sister and I went to a Coupon "Class" today.

Many of the resources they shared were not surprisingly, web sites.

I already use a number of them, so I'll share:

Swagbucks (This is a search engine that gives you points randomly that you can save up and use for rewards, including $5 Amazon Gift Cards.)
My Coke Rewards (Drink Coke products? Enter codes, trade in for free movie rentals, tickets to attractions, magazine subscriptions, Coke stuff, and more.)
Living Social (A new "deal" every day. Could be absolutely anything, from tickets to travel to dining. Today, I bought $50 worth of credit at Vista Print for only $10. That's a savings of 80%...and I had put something in my cart to buy just last night, but put it off because I didn't want to spend the money. I am thrilled with that deal!)
Wal Mart Samples and Coupons (Probably the most exciting sample I've gotten was an entire roll of toilet paper. Most are smaller samples, but sometimes there are really good ones.)
P & G Brand Sampler (Coupons and samples for Procter and Gamble products)

Let me know if you have questions about any of these and I'll be glad to (try to) help.

The links below I'm less familiar with or haven't used at all, so I can't really vouch for them, but will be checking them out:

Southern Savers

Hip 2 Save

Polka Dot Pantry

Couponing To Disney

Coupon Printing:

Red Plum

I Heart Publix

Coupons.com

Smart Source

Coupon Buying:

The Coupon Clippers

Coupon Dede

Ebay

Just ran across this tonight while I was checking to see if the "Yes" bonus paper from Birmingham News with ads/coupons was available in my area. It's not, but I get the "Extra" and I guess that's why. Maybe you can get the "Yes" in your area. Birmingham News Extra Weekly Sweepstakes

Feel free to share any other good sites you know of in the comments!

Squirrel!

2011-02-26T22:11:00.000-06:00

A little update on our rescued squirrel...

"...I had to tell your little boy is doing great!

In fact, he's the best little squirrel I have now.

He eats like a champ, poops and pees perfectly

and will hopefully be moved in with other babies

in the next 2 days.

Amy"

Twenty Five Cents

2011-02-25T22:04:00.000-06:00

You know one of the things I really like about Aldi? Besides the fact you can get a small mountain of good groceries for about $50 dollars.

I like the fact that you have to put a quarter in to unlock the buggy.

Not because of the quarter-deposit itself, but because of all the good that happens in relation to that pesky little coin.

Almost every time I stop at Aldi, there is an opportunity to have a conversation with other shoppers in the parking lot, trading quarters for nickels and buggies for quarters to save the walk back to the store, and so on. Sometimes people will even just give you their buggy.

Aldi literally presents each of its customers with an opportunity to be kind to one another. Friendliness among strangers. In a world where people just leave their buggies parked in the parking lot to dent your car.

Imagine that.

Coins traded for my buggy this evening.

The Hand Of God

2011-02-24T22:28:00.000-06:00

The church we're ministering at and worshipping with is named Providence. A few weeks ago, Sammy was talking about the definition of God's providence. He explained it as God's involvement in all of the everyday, routine, parts of our lives.

Last night at Bible Study, I saw a living picture of what it means to experience God's provision.

We don't usually meet at our home for Bible Study, but we were last night.

A baby squirrel fell from his nest.

The kitty brought him, almost untouched, to our doorstep.

A church member arriving just a few minutes late (with warm cookies) found him.

We wrapped him in towels to keep him warm.

A volunteer from Wild Mammal Care Of Alabama answered her phone.

She agreed to meet us at 9:45 p.m. to rescue the baby who is less than one month old.

She will care for him and release him back into the wild.

From the terrifying moment that baby fell from the tree, God had a plan for him. In the mouth of the cat may not have seemed the best place to be, but it kept him from freezing to death alone on the ground. On our doorstep may have seemed an unlikely path for rescue, but it turned out to be one of warmth and security. And now, I believe, he's exactly where he needs to be, and God saw every detail from the very beginning. That baby squirrel couldn't see a thing, because his eyes haven't even opened yet.

Imagine you've fallen from a tree....

God sees you too. Even if the path towards rescue, safety and healing seems terrifying to you, and you find yourself crumpled on the ground with your eyes tightly shut, unable to look toward the future, or even face your present, know that you can be sure a loving God has made ready a path for you. He will get you to where you need to be. And He will be in every moment.

From The Depths

2011-02-22T23:16:00.000-06:00

Sammy has shared before about the fact that ancient people believed the seat of the emotions to be the bowels. He jokes, "Could you imagine a husband looking longingly into his wife's eyes saying, "I love you from the bottom of my bowels"?"

Strange an idea as it seems, it makes sense to me how people might think this. After all, when you feel heartsick, doesn't a little pang of queasiness go right along with it?

I have no idea what point there is in this...maybe that our ancestors were more wise than we give them credit for. Or maybe just that I'm feeling a little heartsick tonight. But, I know that the Lord has a compassionate heart towards me and is very merciful (James 5:11).

His mercy is enough to mend my bowels....er....heart.

Puppy Love

2011-02-20T21:49:00.000-06:00

I never knew our lives were missing anything until he came along.

Now I know exactly what we were missing:

socks with holes

peace and quiet

hair on every surface

all night howling soundtracks

I guess you could say our lives are complete!

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T21:02:00.000-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day!!

Sidewalk Detour

2011-02-10T21:14:00.001-06:00

A trip out for lunch

took me on a detour

up the strip mall sidewalk

when an old woman

approached me

and told me she was hungry

fried chicken, collard greens, corn

a bottle of water to drink

back down the sidewalk

to the woman with only a few teeth

and hair on her chin

She accepted my small gift

with glad appreciation

and when I had turned away

I overheard her say,

"Thank you, God!"

She was worth it, every bit.

Making The Bed

2011-02-09T20:16:00.000-06:00

I made the bed today, expecting the Bible Study group at our house tonight. It was cancelled due to snowy weather.

Turns out my efforts didn't go completely unnoticed, though.

Man Dinner

2011-01-25T21:09:00.000-06:00

When Sammy got home from work last night, he decided to fix himself dinner.

I couldn't help but be amused and a little bit delighted as he carefully arranged every piece just so.

I love it when my honey acts just a little bit girly.

Don't Sit Down!

2011-01-24T21:36:00.000-06:00

Before I ever even sat down tonight, I: Put away 3 baskets of clothes.
Wash and dried two more loads.
Fluffed up the guest bedroom. Ready for a sleepover!
Tidied Sammy's bathroom.
Straightened the bookcase in the living room.
Tackled the dishes.
While I was at it, went ahead and wiped off the stove and counter too.
Took veggies out for the compost pile. (I use the term compost loosely!)
And while I waited for my not-on-my-diet-hot-dog-dinner to cook, I gathered all the garbage 'round the house and took it out.
Because, tomorrow night, I might sit down first, and then I won't get anything done!

A Bone For The Dog

2011-01-14T22:53:00.000-06:00

I found a dog toy in the store a few days ago that I knew I could easily duplicate from my stash of felted wool.

I made this up in no time and it took even less time for puppy Gus to carry it off to another room to chew it up.

Even better, the store price was about $6. I'd estimate mine cost about 50 cents.

A Big Pot Of Chicken Soup

2011-01-09T22:32:00.000-06:00

Sammy and I made some chicken soup together. It had a little bit of everything thrown in.

Carrots, onions, corn, green beans, mushrooms, chicken, and of course, stars.

It was warm, satisfying, perfect.

Perfect, because it looks like this outside.

A Little Christmas Perspective

2010-12-25T22:34:00.000-06:00

I worry. It's my biggest hangup. (I think.)

Not too many days ago, I did some major worrying. And Sammy asked me a series of questions, "How many times have you been worried about ___________? And how many of those times you worried did your worrying make things better? Did your worrying change anything?" (If at all, I may have made things worse.)

Tonight, we watched my favorite Christmas movie, The Nativity Story.

And I noticed something different, something I hadn't seen before. Herod, who was king when Jesus was born, worried through his entire rule....about the coming of the Messiah.

His worrying led him to do some awful things to other people, but changed nothing, unless it made things worse.

But all his worrying, and all his fear could not stop the King of Kings from being made flesh, being made real in our lives.

The Messiah still came.

And He's changed everything.

May He be your peace on earth. May He be your joy to the world. May He be your love at Christmas.

Order In The Closet

2010-12-18T23:15:00.000-06:00

Sammy has always been more of a clothes horse than me, and more sentimental about clothing items, too. I took a chance yesterday and asked if he'd be interested in going through some things.

He said yes, and he made my day!

We gathered a small mountain of things for the thrift store. And putting away the laundry was almost pleasant.

Almost...

Not A Creature Was Stirring...

2010-12-16T22:35:00.000-06:00

Everyone in the house is sleeping, except for me. Well, that's probably not true. Puppy Gus is probably still awake too. Chewing on a sock or something else he shouldn't be. That's been the worst part about having a puppy right after house training, we're becoming sock poor.

I'm getting ready for an Open House Saturday afternoon. I'm trying to get motivated to clean the dust from ceiling fans and other pleasantries to make sure the house is welcoming.

But when I spied this sweet creature, with his head snug against a pillow, I had to stop and share.

Soon, tonight, it's my hope that there truly won't be a creature stirring!

Sunday Snow

2010-12-12T22:57:00.000-06:00

You can't tell, but it was snowing.

Today was such a busy day, moving, going, giving, laughing, eating. We attended church Christmas events at three different churches (and ate at all three).

But all around us, throughout the day, the snow flakes just fell gently, not making a sound.

Every time I stepped outside, all I could think (besides Brrrr...) was, "You were quiet, soft and slow..." from one of my favorite songs this season.

He is gentle. And He is all around us. A beautiful gift for us all, that fell upon us when no one was expecting it. Just like a winter snow.

Unwrap a little bit of Him today.

Gift Baskets: A Collaboration

2010-12-08T22:32:00.000-06:00

Sammy and I do really make a good team. We had a Christmas party to attend at the UMC Conference Center last night. We knew we wanted to carry gifts for a few of our District Leaders.

I told Sammy I would make granola (using the Barefoot Contessa's recipe). We bought candy and goodie bags together. And he scored these baskets and plaques on clearance.

These gifts came together for about 1/3 of the amount they are worth.

They turned out even better than Sammy could have imagined and I love when I can impress him with so little effort!

Tea Party

2010-12-07T23:06:00.000-06:00

Tea parties happen on a regular basis around here. And they rarely involve any tea.

Tonight, our little tea party was pie from Full Moon and Cheese Straws we received at a UMC Conference Christmas gathering. It was nothing fancy. I didn't even transfer the pie to plates.

I love having these little spontaneous tea parties with my honey.

In true to life form, there are socks on the coffee table, a pair of nail clippers, and of course, a laptop, and puppy Gus contendedly chews on his duck-bear toy.

My point is this: don't worry if there are socks on the table. Find ways to celebrate this Holiday Season.

Don't let it come and go and wonder at its leaving.

Pause. Breathe. Celebrate.

Sunday Mornings

2010-12-05T22:28:00.000-06:00

My Sunday mornings are starting out like this lately. I'm helping out in the nursery of a nearby church.

Barely old enough to color a picture, much less to stay in the lines.

Tears every time momma turns the corner to leave.

They aren't very helpful when the time comes to clean up.

And now and then, I feel like I'm talking to the puppy, "No-No" and "Good Job!"

But, I kind of like 'em. There aren't many companions who smell as sweet with skin so soft!

Felted Wool

2010-12-04T08:40:00.000-06:00

I've been cutting up old wool sweaters. On purpose.

Bought at the thrift store.

Washed in hot water on the longest agitation, with soap.

Dried in the dryer on the high heat setting.

Cut into strips, then squares.

And I'm making some of these:

The high temperatures and the process of washing and drying the wool shrinks the fibers so much, that when you cut into the fabric, it does not ravel. Some of it looks just like felt, it depends on the weight of the wool before you shrink it.

This is a good way to recycle in your own home if you have a lot of wool you're not using.

(There are a few things I'm kicking myself for getting rid of long ago because a few tiny holes don't matter when you're cutting them up anyway.)

This is one of those therapeutic holiday projects. It's time consuming, but a very rewarding project. I'm really having fun with it!

Little Prince

2010-11-17T22:48:00.000-06:00

Sweet Caesar has tolerated a lot since we brought a puppy into the family. And while he's wearng his cranky pants more often than he used to, he's still my sweet little prince.

But, as is the case quite often these days, I type one letter at a time with my right hand as the puppy dreams in my lap.

Happy is the life with furry friends.

Mouses

2010-11-16T22:27:00.000-06:00

I can't take any credit for these little guys whatsoever. I haven't even attempted to make any.

BUT, I found them chilling in the fridge at church and loved them. Aren't they sweet?

It looks like they're chocolate dipped cherries, I'm guessing maraschino, chocolate kisses for the heads and two little sliced almonds for the ears.

I definitely have plans to steal the idea and make some of mine own when the occasion presents itself!

I'm thinking something different for the eyes, though. These are just a little bit creepy. A little dot of black icing might make them easier to swallow.

Yard Sales With Gus

2010-11-13T19:54:00.000-06:00

Lucky for our puppy Gus, dogs can go just about anywhere. Today, we took him riding for a little yard sale adventuring. Sammy and I have both been excited about how far into fall they are going.

We found a complete volume of Shakespeare's works from around 1911, a large stack of children's books, which I feel like we practically stole, though the owner very eagerly parted with them, a Scrabble game from the early 50's and a Rubbermaid bin full of Lord Of The Rings figures (which I'm told will be sold on e-bay).

Gus met some friendly folks, and we met some friendly dogs, my favorite being the stinkiest dog I've ever met, a bloodhound named T-Bone.

I'm most excited about the scrabble pieces. I want the letters so I can use them to spell things out for holidays and special occasions. And so Sammy can switch Noel to Leon and other amusing stuff like that.

Pumpkin....On A Stick

2010-11-12T07:00:00.001-06:00

A few weeks ago, I was given some flowers that had these adorable pumpkin-like things in the arrangement. Several stems sprouted leaves and I got curious about what they really were. Turns out, they are an ornamental eggplant, but are actually edible, should you choose to try them. (Since I don't know how these were grown, there's no way I'd attempt it.)

But, I did cut them open and collect their seeds. I've also got two stems in water in the kitchen window. I'm thinking of planting one in a pot indoors, just to see how they propagate best. Hopefully next year, I can grow my own Pumpkin On A Stick!

"Rustic" Croutons

2010-11-10T09:12:00.000-06:00

These were more of a happy accident than anything.

I made some garlic-parmesan-herb toast to go with dinner last night and forgot the leftovers in the oven overnight. They dried out nicely and I roughly cut them into bite sized pieces.

They'll be tasty on salads today!

All The Good: Count The Small Stuff

2010-11-02T21:25:00.000-05:00

“Do all the good you can,

By all the means you can,

In all the ways you can,

In all the places you can,

At all the times you can,

To all the people you can,

As long as ever you can.”

John Wesley

All. Sometimes the good doesn't seem like much, the place may seem insignificant and the means might appear to be far smaller than the need. But when you can do good, do. However, whenever, wherever, for whosoever.

Even the small stuff counts. Because every bit of good, no matter how small is still good.

A few days ago, I bought two tea towels to use as curtains in my kitchen window. I later realized that the cashier had only rang up one of the towels. Today, I went back to the store, explained to the girl what happened and paid for the other towel. She thanked me for my honesty and said most people wouldn't do that.

It's only a little bit of good. That towel only cost a few dollars. But it was that little sliver of hope from a tiny portion of honesty that really matters.

Whether your actions are guided by how your momma raised you, your moral or ethical values, or your sense of faith, I hope you'll be encouraged to look for all the ways you can do some good today.

My Honey Is Getting Older!

2010-09-19T16:59:00.003-05:00

On this day 31 years ago God allowed the most precious person that had ever lived (for all nitpickers I will make the disclaimer "next to Jesus") to be born. I did not meet her until 1998, 19 years later. However that day made ripples in this world that being unknown to me ( I was three years old) would effect my life forever.

After celebrating 10 1/2 years of marriage and 11 birthdays with her I have to say I love her more now than I did the first time I saw her at Solid Rock Church in that Red dress. (Felt Dress, HA!) It was velvet and I asked her if it was felt. Still she fell in love with me and I with her.

Happy Birthday Honey!!! I hope to celebrate everyone of them with you from now on.

One thing that she really loves is when I post on her blog. So this is a surprise. Lets see how long it takes her to notice.

Post in the comments and wish her a HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!

Seasons May Change...

2010-09-08T22:16:00.000-05:00

I tend to look on my life in terms of seasons passing, more so than of chapters or units of true time.

Seasons are sometimes unpredictable. We're often taken aback by their unusual mildness or by their propensity for sudden and intense stormy destruction. Sometimes it snows in May. Sometimes storms blow with such force, recovery takes years.

When we're given a season of that unusual mildness, we are comfortable, confident in the Lord's goodness and sure of our footing. It's an easy road. And life seems good.

But then a storm blows in unexpectedly. Betrayal. Hurt. Disagreement. Sickness, or worse, death. We are blown off our feet first by the surprise and then by the pure fury of the storm. We cannot see how to stand in the midst of it. Our faith is in remnants--perhaps still altogether there, but in desperate need of gentle and loving restoration.

We begin to wonder, where are you now, Lord? In my storm, are you gone? Are you still near, though I can't detect you because my faith is laid to waste by the forces I've stood against?

I've spent a lot of time dwelling on the seasons of life we've most recently journeyed through. And though I finally feel as though there is a proverbial spring on our horizon and that something refreshing and peaceful is emerging from the brutal cold and harshness of winter, there is still much restoration and healing that needs to be done.

I've been left exposed to the elements and I'm in need of some patching, some piece work to make me whole again. And I need a little bit more distance from the winter to trust that I'm beyond the dangers of a late frost.

As I drove home from church tonight, I thought about how the (literal) summer is easing into fall when my mind naturally wandered to seasons of life and I sensed that the Lord was bringing the words of a song to my remembrance.

Seasons may change, winter to spring, but I love you, until the end of time…..Come what may.

It's funny the ways He chooses to speak to us-He is as unexpected as the seasons are, but we can be assured He never brings destruction. Never before had I considered the words of this song as a love song between me and my Lord, but suddenly I did, and it just made perfect sense to me…

Never knew I could feel like this
Like I've never seen the sky before
Want to vanish inside your peace
Everyday I love you more and more
Listen to my heart, can you hear it sing
Telling me to give you everything

Seasons may change winter to spring
But I love you until the end of time

Suddenly the world seems such a perfect place
Suddenly it moves with such a perfect grace
Suddenly my life doesn't seem such a waste
It all revolves around you

There's no mountain too high no river too wide
Sing out this song and I'll be there by your side
Storm clouds may gather and stars may collide
But I love you until the end of time

Come what may, come what may
I will love you until my dying day

(Song from the movie Moulin Rouge….I took the liberty of changing one word, from kiss to peace…because His peace is better than any kiss.)

Catching Myself

2010-08-03T20:53:00.000-05:00

When we trip or fall, we instinctively put out our hands to prevent injury, but quite often we do more harm than good.

I feel like God is saying to me, "This is what you're doing." Whether He catches me before the fall, cushions the blow or shows me mercy in the bruising, iIf I'm not fully trusting in Him, it's as though I'm putting out my hands.

Like I can stop the fall. Prevent the pain. Change the facts of my circumstances. I think I can catch myself. But, like with a real fall, I usually do more harm than good.

Oh, if I would just lean on Him, He would be my help, my rescuer.

The falls we suffer in life are so much easier when you intentionally cultivate the trust that God will take care of you.

Creamy Corn And Vegetable Soup

2010-08-02T21:51:00.000-05:00

Slippery Cutting Boards? Alton Brown says to use that rubber stuff they make for shelf liners. But if you're like me you don't always have a spare piece laying around. On the other hand I always have kitchen towels. Plus, if they get dirty or wet, just throw them in the wash.

I honestly cannot believe I haven't shared this soup recipe before. It's one of my favorites for summer time, made from beautiful ingredients readily available at the farmer's market (or from the store). I used frozen corn this time, and added some chicken for Sammy.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh corn kernels or 2 (10-ounce) packages frozen, thawed

• 2 cups nonfat milk

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 large onion, diced (about 2 cups)

• 1 medium red bell pepper, seeded and diced (about 1 cup)

• 1 medium zucchini, (about 1/2 pound) diced

• 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth

• 2 plum tomatoes, seeded and diced

• 3/4 teaspoon salt

• Freshly ground black pepper

• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, cut into ribbons

Directions

Put 2 cups of the corn and the milk into a blender or food processor, until smooth. Set aside.

Heat the oil in a large soup pot over a medium-high heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and zucchini and cook, stirring until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes. Add the remaining 2 cups of corn and the broth and bring to a boil. Add the pureed corn and tomatoes and cook until warmed through, but not boiling. Add the salt and season with pepper.

Just follow the recipe loosely and it will be beautiful!

From Ellie Krieger, The Food Network

The only note I really have is that I've never added the basil.

Dessert! Peaches from the Farmer's Market. Sammy peeled a huge bowl full! They are so good this year.

Sunday Summary

2010-07-19T09:46:00.000-05:00

Today we had a birthday party for Granddaddy at our house after church. He'll be 89 on Monday. And he's oh so adorable! My sister Jenn made him this cake.

This morning, Sammy preached from Mark 10:46-52 concerning a blind man named Bartimaeus. I've written a post about him before from an earlier sermon...You can read those notes here.

Sermons are such dynamic things that it's intriguing to see them develop. Each one is different, even if the scripture is drawn from the same place.

The two points that stood out most to me were these:

Bartimaeus knew Jesus was on the way, so he determined in his heart to cry out to him...refusing to be discouraged or quieted. As he became aware of Jesus drawing nearer and nearer to him, he didn't get satisfied or content--his cries grew louder and louder. He wanted to be absolutely sure that the Jesus he believed could change his life, did. Do we get more and more desperate for Jesus as he draws nearer and nearer, or do we get content and satisfied?

When Jesus heard his cries, He responded (as we should believe He will to our cries) and called Bartimaeus to come near to Him. As Bartimaeus approached Jesus, everything about him screamed of what he needed from Jesus. He was blind. He needed his sight. But Jesus asked him, "What do you need from me?" See, Jesus knows what you need. Your needs are glaringly obvious to Him as He watches you approach Him seeking, feeling, grasping your way towards Him. But, He wants to hear you say to Him what it is you need. Because it's your faith that makes you whole.

After the message, we were delighted to celebrate the baptism of a sweet little boy. He loved the water being sprinkled on his head and after the sprinkles for the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost, he wasn't satisfied...he wanted more wet. Just freshly "dipped" and already thirsty for more, a perfect picture of the symbolic nature of baptism. Dip, and dip, and dip again seeking the fullness of God in our lives.

After church, we gathered with family, had good food and had a wonderful time celebrating Granddaddy's life. He is the glue that hold's my mother's family together, a true cornerstone of strength. And he couldn't be easier to buy gifts for. Since he's the man who has everything, I bought him chocolate bars. And I know without a doubt, he really appreciated them! I love that kind of gift giving.

After all the family left, Sammy and I enjoyed a quiet evening at home. We ate leftovers from lunch for dinner and I loaded birthday pictures onto Facebook. It was a crazy busy weekend, so I was thankful for a few hours of rest.

(Thank you Susan for letting my mom and I hitch a ride with you!)

Bishop Caesar stops to smell the roses. Which he really couldn't help, since I shoved them in his face...Thank you Diane for the flowers, the daises, lilies and carnations are still cheerfully blooming on!

I wandered around Montgomery Saturday while Sammy learned about the New Testament from a white-headed man he says has forgotten more than most of us will ever know about the Bible. I attempted to go to the Museum of Art, but they were not open yet, so I wandered around the beautiful park instead taking photos.

Sunday Summary

2010-07-11T22:10:00.000-05:00

These have been sorrowful weeks. We have lost several friends in our churches and extended families. So a good reminder for the week comes from Mrs. Augustine, "There is enough sorrow to go around. Laughter is good medicine." Joy comes in the morning.

Sammy preached at Warrior UMC as well as Providence today, so we drove separately, and I attended Sunday School while he preached.

At Providence today, the sermon text came from Ephesians 2:1-10

(my paraphrase)

God who is rich in mercy loves us with great love!

He made us alive together and raised us up together,

So that He could show us the exceeding riches

of His grace and kindness through Jesus.

God saves us, not by what we do, but it is the gift of God,

given freely because of our faith through His grace.

His gift of salvation is free for all to receive,

so that those of us who have received it should not think we are better

because we have it. (Instead, we should want to give it to others.)

We are crafted by Him to do good things with Him giving us strength.

Sermon Notes

It's not the things we have gone through in life that mold us and make us who we are, even though sometimes we say they are. Rather, it was God's work going on in us while we went through those things that molded us.

He is molding, crafting, chiseling, and fashioning us.

Why do you sand wood? To make it smooth, but also sometimes so that it can receive something from you. This was an idea I hadn't thought of before. The notion of sanding to make one smooth, eliminate hard corners or rough edges is familiar. But the idea of needing the sanding as preparation to receive something made me think deeper about the work God does for us before He can ever do a work in us.

Why do we cut wood? To make it fit in its proper place. Sometimes cut pieces of wood are supports to hold structures up, sometimes they're connectors, holding two things together and so on. And while we might yell to God how much it hurts when He's cutting us to fit in the place He's designed for us, all the while He's reassuring, "Just think how beautiful this will be when I am finished."

Finally, chiseling, a drastic way of transforming, removing large chunks of rough wood, trying to get a basic resemblance of something so we can come back in with smaller, more refined tools for detailed work. But we can easily get distracted by the huge chunks falling off. Maybe we miss them. Maybe we aren't really ready to let them go and even after God has done the chiseling, we're following behind Him with wood glue to put things back as they were.

Using tools for purposes they aren't made for: Have you ever used a wrench as a hammer? (Guilty.) High heel? (Guilty.) Ever used a knife to screw something in? (Do I ever use the proper tools to get the job done?) He not only made you, but specifically He made you for a purpose. You can get by sometimes with improvised equipping and tools, but getting by only takes you so far. If you let God prepare you, and let Him lead you to His purpose for you, He can equip you and prepare you--both to receive something and to give something.

How amazing that God crafted you and made you the way you are so you could do His good work and bring you to a place where you can bring others to Him.

His workmanship is perfect.

Photos: Caesar got a bad haircut this week. He had several very sick days and needed the vet's help in a big way.

A sneak peek at our guest bedroom. All three of us have voted it's our favorite room in the house. (Me, Sammy, kitty.) Don't believe kitty voted? He said it was very comforting to him while he was not feeling well.

Muffin tin crayons for the kids at our churches. When you mix colors, it's especially fun to color with them.

Spouse-i-tude

2010-07-07T08:17:00.000-05:00

I have a little guest post today over at Spouse Connect, the blog for UM Clergy Spouses...

Go check it out!

Then, drop back by here and let me know what your take is on having ownership in your church family.

Leftovers: BBQ

2010-07-06T08:58:00.000-05:00

Whenever there is grilling out, in my experience, there are always mass quantities of leftover meat.

And while Sammy would be content to eat ribs straight out of the fridge or maybe heated up, I'm not okay with that. I like to transform leftovers so I don't feel like I'm eating the same thing every day for a week.

Yesterday, I made garlic-cheese bread and toasted it under the broiler, then I topped it with some shredded boston butt mixed with barbeque sauce that I warmed in a skillet. On the side, we had some new potatoes fried with leftover sauteed onions.

Today for my lunch, I'm just having some of the potatoes with the barbeque meat, skipping the bread.

I also like boston butt over a salad as an entree, maybe a drizzle of barbeque sauce and Kraft's Lite Three Cheese Ranch Salad dressing. Yum. Maybe that can be dinner tonight!

What are your favorite ways to empty the fridge following a cook-out?

Google Is Smart, And, Do You Want The Good News Or The Bad News First?

2010-07-02T11:46:00.000-05:00

I was sending an e-mail to a friend and told her I was attaching a picture, which I forgot about, so when I clicked send, G-mail asked me "You wrote, "I'm attaching", but there is no attachment, do you want to send anyway?" Well, no Google, thanks for catching that. Let me add my attachment : )

And, yesterday, Sammy called to dish the bad news. He lost his glasses. In the bottom of a lake. When a canoe flipped over.

And I really honestly could not see any potential for good news in that. (Remember my post from earlier in the week, we've already had to replace system cooling fans and had a cracked windshield THIS WEEK?) I was a little distraught by Sammy's bad news.

But today, I placed a call to our Optometrist who upon hearing my explanation of what happened, immediately offered a 50% discount on a replacement pair. We don't have replacement coverage or damage protection or any such thing like that. They're just taking care of us. Maybe it's not that unusual, I don't know. But I'm so, so thankful.

And that's the good news.

Scope

2010-06-30T07:38:00.000-05:00

The system cooling fans in our car had to be replaced. We got the car back from the shop Monday.

Today? A crack in the windshield.

But I sometimes struggle with remembering that in the wide scope of life, these things are miniscule and of no real importance.

A House Divided

2010-06-16T21:55:00.000-05:00

My clothes are in one house, but the machines that keep them clean are in another. One house gradually empties as another gradually fills.

And the only room that never really became a room in this house was the first to become one in the parsonage. The guest room is ready for sleepovers--hopefully ones that do not involve sweaty teenage boys.

Because payment for the work of boys with nothing else to do in the summer is as easy as food and movies watched with the surround sound up so loud the floors shake, I'm currently getting my fill of boys. I'm very thankful to have them around, though. It's a lot more fun to direct the flow of boxes and pieces of furniture than it is to haul them around myself.

There was a happy accident today in the parsonage. A volunteer came to paint, and I had thought to paint the backs of the built ins to make them feel warmer, hopefully less obnoxious. But I don't always communicate thoroughly what my plans are, so she started painting the whole built in with the wall color. I played along, and I think it's going to be nice. They don't seem quite so huge now that they almost melt into the wall.

Speaking of gradually filling, yes, we are doing a redneck move this year. Sammy is hauling loads in the back of his truck. It's a good thing the houses are close. Today, he arrived at the house with washer and dryer in the bed....and a table strapped to the roof. Nothing surprises me. Really.

Now, I'm exhausted. And I need to go wash the paint off my hands and out of my hair!

Dear Grant,

2010-06-14T08:19:00.000-05:00

I would like you to know that your friend Troy prays for you. Every chance he gets. He calls you by name and prays for you.

Here's what I think Troy wants so badly for you to know: God loves you. And it's a crazy kind of love that isn't conditional upon who you are or how you act. And even if you're aware of his love and you do things to try to push it away, or run away from it, it just makes him love you more. He wants you to be his child--he wants you to receive his love. He freely gives it to you.

He's a pursuer of everyone. He loves us all just the same. No matter what we believe. No matter where we were raised, or how. Now matter what we look like, talk like (or even what we smell like).

See, God created us. He designed us to be the way we are and all of us are different. We may have things in common, but not one of us is exactly the same. And he never has to call four names to get yours right. He knows who you are, knows you by name.

You're important to him. So important, in fact, that he has given you a gift. Maybe you haven't accepted it yet. Maybe it sits on your bookshelf unopened. Maybe you think about it now and then, but decide not to open it, a little afraid of what waits for you inside. But you shouldn't be. All it is, is love.

The greatest love, of a Son who was willing to give his body to be broken, offered as a sacrifice that no man should have to bear punishment for our sins, our weaknesses, our flawed behaviors. God gave us his son Jesus. That through him, we can become the family of God, and have life forever with him in heaven. And like Brother Rusty preached yesterday, it would not matter one bit to God if you were the only person on earth. He would have still sent his son for you. You matter that much to him.

We never have to live alone again. Even in the greatest darkness, God is our source of light. When you're afraid, he's there. He's our rescuer. When you're angry, he's gentle--and calm. He's our soother. When you question things you don't understand, he knows the answers. He's our teacher. He's everything you need, and more than you could ever imagine.

Troy knows that love of God. He's received that gift, opened it up and treasured it for himself. And because he's learned what's inside, he wants to share it with you.

I hope one day, you'll rip off the paper covering that gift and discover that it's just what you've always needed. And then, maybe, you'll call a friend by name, every chance you get.

God loves you, Grant. He really, really does.

Just Begun...

2010-06-10T15:19:00.000-05:00

I believe there's a saying that goes something like, "Just Begun is half done". I disagree : )

I have begun three different posts and finished none of them. I'm sorry. I really am. I'm just empty. I have nothing of quality to give.

I will give a few little updates though.

Parsonage:
The bad wallpaper in the bedroom is banished and the room is painted a nice neutral color. The bad wallpaper in the study, also banished. Currently, that room has a farmer's tan style strip of white at the top. The bad wallpaper in the bathroom is being very, very stubborn. I'm at a bit of a loss on what to do, other than scrape until it hurts and move on to more pleasant things. I have been looking for some baskets to fill some of the shelves for the built-ins and easily found some I liked costing around $40 each, which I would rather go weave my own than pay that price. Then I got lucky at K-mart and found comparable ones that were only $10 each, because they were on sale! So, I'm pretty excited about that.

Churches:
This Sunday will be our last interim Sunday at Walker's Chapel. The next Sunday we will be at Providence. Also of note regarding these two Sundays, Sammy will be 33 this week and 34 the next! His birthday is Saturday, the 19th.

Our house to house move:
I don't think Sammy's going to get a U-haul. I haven't asked for any time off work. He still says we're moving some time next week. I don't see how? I'm afraid it's gonna be a redneck move, y'all. We did move our mini-fridge and porch furniture to the house. So we have a little bit of room for cold food storage and a place to sit that's not the floor. I appreciated that oh so much last night.

The Year:
I cannot believe this is June. Could someone please tell me where the rest of the year went? I have felt as though I was living someone else's life for at least part of the year. I'm hoping to find "me" again soon. Maybe she's in one of those boxes in my dining room.

Me:
Exhausted, worn out. I'm incredibly sore today and tired on top of that. My poor head hurts every day. I had an eye inflammation last week and I have a follow up appointment tomorrow. I am really hoping that I get an all clear and can start wearing my contacts again, because the glasses and I are just not as close as we used to be.

Reading:
Of dozens of books I haven't read but would like to, the one I am working through now is by Max Lucado, Safe in the Shepherd's arms. I'm about half way through it and have really enjoyed it so far. It's a very comforting, reassuring read, but not too hard. In it, he shares of a hymn that says, "I do not ask to see the distant scene, one step enough for me." I've been trying to bear that in mind when I get in a rush or in a panic over our current circumstances...that God knows all of the future and He's big enough for me to be able to trust him with that and be satified with the one step I can see. One step is enough.

Just know that while I'm wading through all the stuff of that "one step" I'll be back to writing more often eventually, but for now, I'm doing the best I can.

What Day Is This? Part II

2010-06-01T13:25:00.000-05:00

As it's turning out, this is the no good, horrible, very bad day. This portion is on Having Pets...And Sympathy On Strays. (Sorry I have so much to say today....)

You'll remember back in November, Mr. Tubbs showed up on our front porch and made himself at home with us.

And through these months, we've fed him and loved him and given him a new name.

It took a while, but he and Caesar will tolerate each other through gritted teeth.

But, poor Tubbs can't resist a good fight. I'd like to think he considers himself a defender of our home against other cats, but whatever the reason, he's always wounded. And recently, he came down with a very bad upper respiratory infection. He's been stopped up and sneezy, lethargic and achy (he would cry when we picked him up).

I had begun to suspect he had FIV like Oscar did, based on certain symptoms and his behavior. The cold was the last straw. I was convinced he had it. And unlike Oscar, who was my baby...I can't go through this again. If that makes me a bad person, to abandon a cat knowing he's sick with something that will eventually kill him, then I guess I am. Bad.

I think Mr. Tubbs is a good kitty. But, I believe that caring for him these last few months and now giving him a humane end is the best I can give to him. I also can't risk Caesar's life to care for a stray.

Sammy has had the unpleasant task of taking him to the vet today. The unfortunate thing is, that is not the end of the story. The humane end I envisioned was not the one he received from us. The first vet charged us $70 to tell us that yes, he does have FIV. But they suggested we take him to the Birmingham Humane Society and let them test him and that they would put him to sleep. We, being stupid, I suppose, wanted to make sure he was treated with kind regard and that his last moments not be horrifying. Sammy took him to another vet. The vet that put Oscar to sleep. And the vet whose words I will never forget when I took Oscar in to see him. He walked in the room and without hesitation he said "I'm sorry, he tests positive for FIV. I think you should put him down." "He could make other cats sick and it wouldn't be fair to them."

This time, they told Sammy, "The best thing for this cat is to take him to a neighborhood or subdvision and leave him there."

I'm extremely angry about this being offered as a solution by a vet's office, and by their contrasting opinions from one cat to another.

How is it good for us to drop him off and let somebody else have to deal with him as he gets sicker and sicker? Or what about if we drop him off and he fights with someone's family pet, making them sick? Or what if he starves to death? How is that good for him?! I fail to see. Obviously, this vet cares nothing about the spread of FIV.

And, we had already thought about that. If we hadn't cared about trying to do the right thing, we would have never taken him to the vet at all. We would have just driven him down the country road to begin with.

But by this point, Sammy is frustrated (understandably) and through dealing with it. Mr. Tubbs has broken the cat carrier multiple times and got out of the car in a parking lot at one point, leaving Sammy no choice but to chase him around. So he did what the vet said. He found a place in the "country" where there were some horses on a quiet road and he left Mr. Tubbs there. He does at least have some experience moving in with strangers, but it's not a solution I would have chosen. I don't guess you can make a vet euthanize an animal....but still. This is ridiculous. And now I'm in need of a vet to carry future pets to. Because though I like this one, I'm furious with them right now.

Ultimately, when we move, it will be with only one cat. And our family has a new policy: we don't feed strays. No matter how cute they are. Or pitiful.

Even though we haven't had him long, and I haven't let myself really love him, I still feel sad/bad to do this "to" him. . Or I guess I should look at it as something I'm doing "for" Caesar. I still feel like a bad human. I do hope he'll find a good home. But the not knowing will be harder to deal with, even than knowing and feeling guilty.

I'm getting to the point where I am over loving pets. Because when they die or leave, they take a piece of that animal lover in me with them.

What Day Is This?

2010-06-01T07:37:00.001-05:00

Being off work yesterday has thrown off my sense of the days. But I'm SO glad for the opportunity to do not-much-of-nothing on a Monday. I did pack a box. One. : )

Sammy and I spent a good bit of time talking about where we were in life on Memorial Day last year. We were working at our house in Warrior. Getting ready to move. In the midst of a Daniel Fast. Exhausted, stressed out. We grilled vegetables and ate lunch on the front porch. It's interesting to compare a year ago with now, because on the surface it seems somewhat the same, yet, it's very, very different for us.

We're at 15 days from the official move date, and we're largely unprepared for it, though neither one of us seems frantic. Yet. Most of our boxes are packed, and we've been to the parsonage a few times now, trying to get a vision of where things might go. We've bought painting supplies, and have some of the paint we'll need to freshen the parsonage up some. For the most part, we're sticking with the same colors we have now and had in the parsonage at Remlap. We've been using "Pony Tail" for so long now that Sammy has the color memorized. I think that's pretty incredible, because some days, he doesn't remember my name. I figure a paint color that has earned memorization inside his head deserves a semi-permanent role in our home.

We had dinner with the people from our new appointment, at Providence Saturday night. It was good to meet those we hadn't met before that we'll soon be worshipping with.

On Sunday, Sammy preached at both Walker's Chapel and Fultondale. His message was from Psalm 8. And after church, we went to lunch with our church family. Later, I got a Facebook message from the girl I sat next to at the table. She said, "Thank you for having lunch with me. I had a good time with you. I love you." She's only 8, and I thought that was incredibly thoughtful of her to share her feelings with me like that. What a very grown-up thing to do. And yet many of us grown-ups don't.

This Friday and Saturday we'll be attending Annual Conference at ClearBranch UMC. Sammy will be ushering this year, along with one of the boys in our youth group. Since I attend only as a "guest", I'm looking forward to seeing some of those friends we only see at events like this one. And, my mom will be attending for the first time as a layperson delegate. So, we'll get to go to meals with her.

I know this post is pretty much all over the place, please forgive me. Maybe soon, life will settle down some. Though I don't say that with much seriousness at all.

I hope you all enjoyed your Memorial Day celebrations, whatever they looked like, and I hope you have a wonderful week.

Well....

2010-05-27T10:33:00.000-05:00

We have work to do my friends. More than I expected. I'm going to have to arm myself with all the creativity and cleverness I have, borrow some of yours as well, and I may have to muster up a little bit of tolerance too.

We now have the key for our new parsonage, where our mountain of boxes will soon be landing. We went to visit last night...around 9:30. Then I couldn't sleep because I kept reliving the walk-through experience in my mind. Trying to remember how the layout of the house was.

At this very moment, I need to work on building positive thoughts. But, I will definitely know what I don't want in a house by the time we retire from the ministry. There's a couple I discovered last night : ) One being, I believe hallways are a waste of space. Rooms could be so much bigger if you didn't have three feet of emptiness you can't do anything with in between them.

But, still, I know we'll be able to make it work.

First things first, we need to remove wallpaper in a few rooms and paint everything. Good grief, does that painting everything sound familiar?!

And, of course, the house needs a good cleaning.

One of my favorite things is the storage...oh the storage! Sammy is afraid we won't be encouraged to simplify. But, I'm just thrilled that I won't have to share the laundry room with the tools and the Christmas decorations. Maybe laundry can be pleasing? No, probably not. Forget I said that.

I have a problem space I'm going to need help working out. it's the kitchen/dining room area. The kitchen is teeny, tiny, (I'm pretty sure the oven bakes with a light bulb), while the dining room is REALLY BIG! There is also a carport entry into the space that enters in what almost looks like a breakfast nook. But that would be silly, because the dining room could already fit 4 or 5 tables. I'm not sure what to do there. My friend Stephanie suggested setting it up almost like a mud room, which sounds like a good idea. But I still want it to make sense with the kitchen and dining room, because the whole space is open.

Another thing I need help with is all those built in shelves. I mean, I'm a girl who can appreciate a good built-in, but these are nothing like a good built in : ) We're hoping they'll let us remove a few of them, but I imagine that one or two will be staying.

Want to see pictures? Click here. Any suggestions on my problem areas would be appreciated.

Meanwhile, I'm registered at Sams for tiny pans (kidding!). Because I can't live without these. Even if it means I cook Barbie Doll sized food.

Delicate

2010-05-22T08:34:00.001-05:00

Tiny, tiny petals from a Bartlett Pear tree earlier in the Spring,

picked for me from a tree in the park by Sammy, in tiny little vintage perfume bottles from Avon.

I love the flecks of pink.

They've been stuck on my camera's internal memory.

But, I'm finally getting to enjoy their full sized delicate-ness. And they're still just as sweet.

Goof Off With Google!

2010-05-21T11:35:00.000-05:00

Oh. My. Word.

Sammy called me urgently a few minutes ago to tell me I HAD to go to Google. So I went and saw they had made their logo Pacman. I thought that was awesome. Then he said, no, it's the GAME. In honor of Pacman's 30th Birthday, (Little guy is only about 8 months younger than me!) Google has put the entire Pacman game on their home page. It starts automatically after a few seconds.

And, if you click next to the "Google Search" Button, on "Insert Coin", it will put both Pacman and Mrs. Pacman on the screen simultaneously and you can play as both. (Maybe this would work best with two people's hands) Pacman works with arrow buttons, Mrs. Pacman with the W A S D keys.
The people at Google are geniuses. Forget Apple and their Genius Bar. Go play Pacman on Google.

Happy Weekend Friends!!!

Commenting: It's Easy!

2010-05-20T11:50:00.000-05:00

I've made some changes in my blog's settings, so the way you comment will change slightly. I do think it will be more user friendly, but people have said before that they can't figure out how to leave a comment.

I would really love to hear from everyone who has something to say, so I hope this "grand" tutorial will give you the confidence in your blog-user skills to speak up!

*Note: This post is intended to be helpful, and I'm not trying to insult the intelligence of readers whose blog-user skills are way ahead of my own!

See step-by-step directions below each photo:

1) Click on the word "Comments" below the post, which is a link for comment entry.

2) The comment box will open up below the post.

3) Click on the arrow of the drop-down box. It will open a list of profiles for you to choose from.

Most users will select Name/URL or Anonymous. Just click on the choice you prefer.

If you do have a Google Account, you can use it. (You won't see my name there, you'll see your own!)

4)Once you click on Name/URL, this box will pop up. Enter your name. You may leave URL blank or type in your web page.

5) Type your comment in the box.

We can chat about the weather, the current blog post, things you'd like to hear,

whatever you have to say really. Just be nice.

6) Click on Post Comment.

7) Your comment will appear below the post and a note below the comment box that lets you know your comment was published.

Congratulations! I'll be sure to talk back at you soon!

Kitty

2010-05-15T15:32:00.003-05:00

...Will do anything to sit where he wants...

...even if it's perilous!

Lessons Learned

2010-05-13T12:36:00.004-05:00

Reading on Without Wax today, I saw important lessons Pete learned from his mentor in the ministry, who was almost 50 years his senior.

~forgive those who have hurt you

~time goes by fast

~don’t leave things unsaid

~shortcuts don’t pay off

~be grateful for this moment, it’s all you have

~things don’t matter, people are all that count

I'm reminded of one of my own steadfast beliefs: we are always a disciple, and we are always a discipler. There are always people to teach and people to glean wisdom from.

Who is your teacher, and who are you teaching?

To-Done!

2010-05-11T12:10:00.004-05:00

When the number of things I need to do overwhelms me, I sometimes feel paralyzed and unsure where to start.

But leaving everything undone is definitely not the solution.

I'm re-learning a practice I used to be really good at, but in the past few years have only used in crisis situations (such as hosting a party/event at my house). It's my To-Do List.

Home-keeping duties should not be like Olympic events. It should be fairly easy to do, if you have a method to keep yourself ahead of the curve.

For me, that method is as simple as putting pen to paper. My list has some rules to keep it orderly and manageable.

1) Be kind to yourself. Who wants to be bound to a cruel and heartless list? Not me. Mine is sometimes lighthearted or funny. Last night, it said, "For crying out loud, wash some dishes!" You can even write in things you want to do. "Put your feet up. You worked hard all day." "Enjoy dinner with your family."

2) Focus on tasks, not projects. Repeat rule # 1 here. Putting something huge on the list like "Pack To Move" just isn't helpful, because it won't get crossed off until the move is over. So, make sure your list contains measurable tasks, similar to goal setting. My list has said "Pack at least 3 boxes." every day since I started making one. I did that in about 10 minutes the other day while getting ready for church by simply putting DVD's in boxes.

3) It must be hand-written. I type all the time. So, typing a bunch of things to do on a Word Document and e-mailing it to myself would be lucky to get opened, much less read or done. In order for a list to go from "To-Do" to "To-Done!", I need to write it on a piece of paper and put a line through it when I'm done. I find joy in marking things off and knowing I did get something done! Even when it's something simple like "Bring the trash can from the road. It's only been there since Friday."

4) Start fresh every day. Don't fret over things you didn't get to the day before. Repeat rule #1 here. I write a new list each day. It only takes a few minutes. Don't put ridiculous amounts of stuff on your list. You can put more on your list than you think you'll get to that day, but don't put three months worth of work one list and then beat yourself up because you can't do it all.

5) Ask for help. Everyone in the family should contribute to keeping the home. In our home, since Sammy's work schedule has changed, he's had more flexible time and he's been good to ask what he can do to help with dinner. He's done laundry, and he tries to do better about not making messes to begin with. I try to be careful with the line between asking for help and assigning chores. We're not children and nobody likes being told what to do. I do give him Sammy-Do lists on occasion. Usually they relate to running errands or completing projects and not daily tasks.

Things around my house are often chaotic, and we find ourselves chronically in the situation of having enough time to make a mess, but not enough to clean it up. We pull clothes out of laundry baskets more often than I care to divulge. And, sometimes, we're just kind of lazy.

My To-Do list is helping me right now to get through this busy season without losing my mind, or complete and utter control of my house.

What's your favorite tip/trick to keeping your home in some sort of order? Or is there any order?

Sometimes...

2010-05-09T01:40:00.001-05:00

...When I look at my hands, I see my mother's.

Especially when they do hard work.

Mine aren't exactly like hers, though, hers taught mine to do most of the things they've learned to do.

Writing, cooking, even cutting grass.

Nurturing babies and little children, holding hands with sisters, digging in the earth.

Ironing, sewing and folding fitted sheets.

Grocery shopping, clipping coupons.

Running fingers gently through hair, and tickly back scratches.

Quiet things hands do, like fold together in prayer.

And even the things that the hands just know by heart to do, like squeeze, hold tight--those things that come from birth, she gave me them too.

I remember very few things her hands could not teach mine; to tie a shoelace, and to crochet. But that's only because my left hand is particularly stubborn.

Her hands still do so many things today. They work hard. Provide. Care. Love. Learn.

I'm so very proud that she's going back to school, making A's. That's she's succeeded in her work. That she's always there when her parents need her. And that even though her children are all grown, she's never stopped being a good mother.

These are things I hope I learn from her too.

Her hands don't look quite the same as I remember them when I was a child. Maybe mine look like I remember hers when I was a child. Time and experience change us. We never stop growing. And she bears the marks of that on her hands.

When her hands look like her mother's and mine look like hers do now, I wonder what stories I will have to tell of her by then?

Many, many beautiful ones I'm sure.

I love you, Momma, and I thank you for all the things your precious hands have taught me to do, and for all the times they've held me. Happy Mother's Day!

Happy Mother's Day to all the wonderful women who read this little note. Your hands are precious too and I pray God's blessings upon them.

Poppy Seed Chicken

2010-05-05T07:28:00.005-05:00

Back in 2008, I made my first attempt at this popular Southern dish. It was easy, and it was pretty good, but it was not spectacular.

I need to work on emptying our foodstuff before our move, so I'm planning to work through some dishes I can make with what I have on hand, and this is what I made last night, although I made some changes to the classic recipe. Sammy loved it. He ate seconds. And thirds. And then scraped out the bottom of the dish. All that's left is the little bowl above that I generously left him for lunch today.

Here's how I made it:

Ingredients
3 Cups Milk
3 TBSP Butter
3 TBSP Flour
2 Cans Chicken Meat, drained (mine were from Aldi)
1 Clove of Garlic (more or less, however much you want)
1/2 cup mayonnaise or sour cream
3 Medium Potatoes, peeled and sliced
1 Head of Broccoli Florets
2 Medium Onions, chopped
Poppy seeds
1 Sleeve Club or Ritz Crackers
Additional Butter
Parmesan Cheese, optional

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Cook the potatoes and broccoli until they are just tender. Saute the onions until golden brown. Set aside.

Place 3 TBSP butter in a medium sauce pan on medium heat and allow it to melt. Add the milk, then whisk in the flour. Add the minced/grated garlic clove (I use my garlic press). Add salt and pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to cook until thickened, whisking occasionally. (This is so easy...if it's too thick, add a little milk...too thin, add a little flour)

Stir in the mayonnaise or sour cream (or both if you want) chicken, potatoes, broccoli, onions, and poppy seeds.

Spread into a lightly greased 9 x 13 inch dish.

Crush crackers in a large Ziploc bag and spread over the top of the casserole. Then drizzle melted butter over them. I also grated some Parmesan cheese and sprinkled on top of the crackers and butter.

Bake for approximately 30 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.

Enjoy!

Looking Up

2010-05-03T19:25:00.003-05:00

I really love this picture from our lock-in Friday night. I imagine it made this little boy's night to get to play Rock Band with the big kids.

And I think it perfectly exemplifies why we should act worthy of being someone a child would look up to. Because they do look up.

Seeing God

2010-04-29T07:28:00.004-05:00

I was talking to my "realest" friend last night. We were sharing about our move (I told them they could help us move, since they aren't moving this year. She laughed at me.) and about their recent vacation/spring break trip with their girls.

She said they have a tradition of keeping journals when they go on trips that they write in to remember the details of the trip and keep those memories recorded. I think that's a wonderful idea! She went on to say that they challenge each of the girls to write where the see God during the course of the trip. Which again, I think is wonderful.

Imagine all the places you've seen God in your travels, stood in wonderment for a moment at His glory, and all but forgotten it as time passed by. It's a beautiful way to preserve those sweet moments where God whispers and hold them together so that you can re-live them when you read your journaled thoughts.

Their oldest daughter, Kayla, came home from school after they returned from spring break and shared with her mother, "Momma, I don't see God at school very often, but I saw Him today."

There is a boy at her school who sits by himself every day during their lunch break. He's an angry boy. Always getting into trouble. He never eats lunch. She and her friends invited him over to sit at their table and they began to ask him, "why?"

Why don't you ever eat lunch? I don't have any money.
Why don't your parents get you free lunches? Well, we don't qualify for free lunches, but my parents won't give me any money.

Upon hearing that, the whole lunch table emptied their pockets and collected enough quarters to buy that boy lunch. They reached across race and gender and filled that boy's belly and I imagine his heart too.

The girls at the table have decided that they will split the cost of his lunches for the rest of the year to make sure he eats. My friend Kassandra asked of her daughter, "Have you thought that maybe he is so angry because of how his parents treat him?" And she then told Kayla that she would make sure they put money on his lunch account as well.

We're never safe to assume that we understand the reason "why?" We have to do a little digging, a little loving, a little giving.

Kayla said she saw God in her friends that day. But she was also the hands and feet of God to that boy who sat alone at the lunch table that day and I believe he saw God too.

Finally Announcing Our Move

2010-04-28T10:13:00.004-05:00

More appointments are listed on the North Alabama Conference website today.

We're going to Providence, in Morris. They'll be renting their parsonage, from what I hear, and we'll be moving to a vacant one in the area. Sammy's dad was surprised that we would move just a few miles away, but the location of the parsonage is ideal, located right in the middle of our two churches.

In an interview (by me), Sammy said, "I love being a part of the Methodist Church." He also said, "The concept of itineracy is as interesting and appealing as it is intimidating." On the idea of moving, he had this to say, "When you're called to go, you go and we live this life in the Methodist Church, because God has given us the unique giftings and qualities and placed the people in our lives to allow us to be able to move when called."

On moving from home to home regularly, he commented, "Knowing that you'll move regularly creates an opportunity to live a less cluttered life both spiritually and naturally, in the church and in the home."

I asked him, what would you say is your best quality as a pastor? "I don't know what my best quality is, but I know one of my strengths is the ability to overlook the worst about people in an effort to bring out the best in people."

Now, from the preacher's wife, and how she weighs in with this scenario:

Any church where my husband pastors is my church. I will serve alongside him, and I will support him in his work.

I think one of our greatest strengths is that we have a tremendous capacity to love people, even difficult ones. I think that strength allows us to easily become a part of the life of our congregations.

As far as moving our home, I'm kind of excited about it. Driving home one night, I asked Sammy if I was crazy to be looking forward to moving. He seemed to think it was a good sign. I'm the packer and Sammy is the mover so I have a lot of work to do in the coming weeks. Last time, I didn't pack nearly enough in advance, because I kept thinking we might need those things. I hope I don't overcompensate for that this time!!

And I do think the idea of moving on a regular basis (though an unpredictable one) will force us to really think about the things we choose to keep in our lives. Just asking myself, do I really want to move _______ for the 2nd time in a 12 month period has helped me let go of a lot of stuff.

So, we're going where we're sent again. All I see are possibilities and I'm looking so very forward to that.

No Creature Comforts: Up All Night(s) & A Relay For Life

2010-04-26T12:15:00.004-05:00

Two weekends in a row, I'll be forced to stay out of my bed all night because of youth ministry : )

This Friday night, a lock in at the YMCA in Birmingham. Sleeping bag and pillow are #'s 1 and 2 on my packing list. # 3? Diet Mountain Dew. I also need some sort of teenager deterrent. Y'all let me know if you have ideas.

Then, the next Friday night, May 7th, we'll be participating the American Cancer Society's Relay For Life.

Like the ACS says, "Because cancer never sleeps, Relays are overnight events..."

There is not a life in this world whose reach does not encompass a loved one's fight with cancer. I've seen it steal away so many. And it has no prejudices, it does not play fair. I truly believe that to help fight this fight is a worthy effort, so I'm raising money for this event to benefit the ACS and to support my team, Fultondale United Methodist Church. I would love to have your support!

You can donate online by clicking here. Or you can make checks payable to American Cancer Society and I will send them in for you or I can give you a form to mail them in yourself. If you need my mailing address to send checks to, you may e-mail me at sammysnino(at)gmail.com.

"We are creating a world with more birthdays, a world where cancer can't claim another year of anyone's life."

Guest Retreat

2010-04-24T13:58:00.004-05:00

While we're awaiting that official word on whether or not our appointment with the UMC will involve a move to a parsonage, we've been collecting boxes.

We really like free when it comes to packing materials!

So, I present to you our Guest Room.

I am fairly certain that the word "retreat" in this sense is actually intended to be a passive verb. But, here in our house, sadly, it would be an active verb.

Guests would most certainly "retreat" away from this room.

Admittedly (with a tiny bit of shame), the dining room looks very similar to this. Except it's stacked with plastic bins of Christmas decorations and yard sale donations.

We're being very liberal with the donations to our church yard sale this year (again anticipating a possible move), so imagine this: 5 full garbage bags and 6 boxes.

What's that? You'd like to see a picture?

Well, my friends, only our bug man has seen that far!

Black Bean, Zucchini and Tomato Quesadillas (With Chicken, and A Trick!)

2010-04-22T21:22:00.007-05:00

I have absolutely no patience with things that require being flipped in a pan, like say, omelets, pancakes, quesadillas.

But today on the internet, I found a recipe I wanted to tweak. Here's the version I tweaked from. She tweaked from Weight Watchers.

I wasn't in the mood to tackle the pan flipping thing, so I decided to bake them in the oven. I used a 2nd cookie sheet as a lid of sorts (spray the bottom of the pan with cooking spray).

With 3 cookie sheets, I was able to make 6 huge quesadillas at one time, while I played on Facebook. Easy!

Here's my "recipe":

Ingredients
1 zucchini, shredded
1 pint grape tomatoes, sliced in halves
1 can black beans, drained & rinsed
2 small onions, chopped and sauteed
8 oz baby bella mushrooms, sauteed
2 chicken breasts, cooked however you like and thinly sliced or shredded
1 jar of your favorite salsa
8 oz pkg of shredded cheese
8 flour tortillas

Directions
Mix together the zucchini, tomatoes, black beans, mushrooms, onions and enough salsa to bind them all together. Spread over tortilla bottom. Top mixture with chicken, then with cheese.

Put a lid on (or just fold them over) and cook. I baked mine at 350 for about 10 minutes, got impatient and turned the oven up to 450 for about 5 more. If you fry them in a pan, just put a little oil in the pan and cook each side until it's golden brown.

Notes
Cooking should be fun, not difficult and over-complicated. Don't be afraid to improvise in the kitchen to make your dishes your very own!

Sammy thought this dinner was "brilliant". He raved about it. He topped his with a spicier salsa, and I think they would have been better with a salsa with some heat in the first place, but I had to use what was in the cabinet, and that was pineapple salsa.

Let me know if you do some tweaking of your own, I'd love to hear about it. I'd also love to know if you're the type of person who tries a recipe the way it is written the first time and tweaks it later, or if you're like me and tweak right from the start.

I know it makes Sammy crazy that I tweak things so much : )

Thank God for Birmingham Water Works!

2010-04-17T16:37:00.002-05:00

I know they get a lot of grief from a lot of people but listen to this story.

I heard a knock on the door the other day.

I opened the door and found a man standing there from Birmingham Water Works.

He told me that we were getting new water mains on our road and new supply lines to our house and new meters. WOW!

We have had a problem with some of the lines from the mains to the current meter being exposed and freezing in the winter. We had been hoping for them to do something. And now they are.

Not only that I have a sink hole in the front yard that need some filling for additional parking. I spoke with the crew Foreman about where they would dump the spoil from digging for the lines. He said they could dump it in our sink hole and hollow if we wanted. I asked if it would be smoothed and packed down. He said yes.

They are also going to re-gravel our drive way after they finish digging it up.

Thank God for Birmingham Water Works.

Alert!

2010-04-06T10:49:00.004-05:00

I'm losing interest in blogging. We (you know I say "we" loosely, because it's mostly me) have written 384 posts over a couple of years, and it just doesn't seem to be a terribly fruitful activity anymore. Maybe it's just a dry spell. But there's not much that excites me enough to post about it. Sometimes I make myself say something.....say anything. But, I'm growing tired of feeling guilty about not posting, when it's something I started doing because I enjoyed it. I don't know where the enjoyment turned to guilt, but I'm not happy about it : )

For the most part, when I do post things, I do because it's something that I'm interested in. But because those of you who drop by every now and then are so stinkin' quiet, I have no idea what you're thinking. And I do care about you. I don't talk to you very much, I know. It's because I'm shy. And my momma told me not to talk to strangers.

Tell me what you like best when you read.
Tell me what you would like to see more of.

Please speak up, because otherwise, soon, all I'm going to have to talk about is whether or not we're moving houses for the 2nd year in a row, and if we are, the only pictures I'll have to put up will be stacks and stacks of boxes!

I need some motivation and quick!

A Road Of My Own

2010-03-31T14:48:00.010-05:00

John Piper says of the Book of Ruth, "One of the main messages of this little book is that God is at work in the worst of times. Even through the sins of His people He can lead and He does plot for their glory. It was true at the national level. And we will see that it is true at the personal, family level, too. God is at work in the worst of times. When you think He is farthest from you, or has even turned against you, the truth is that He is laying foundation stones of greater happiness in your life."

Driving down I-65 South from my home to Birmingham, there are multiple patches of road work. Construction, reconstruction, exit ramps closed, periods of time where traffic is reduced to one lane causing it to be backed up. It's frustrating. It's difficult.

From my perspective, it seems there is no end in sight to this work and it seems like there is no method to the madness at all. To me, it looks like they're just doing whatever they want when they feel like, working piecemeal on various parts.

But I know better. I know that even before work began on that stretch of road extensive plans were made. Budgets, mapping, engineering, traffic control, scheduling. A finish line was set in place, before the first orange barrel was set down on the pavement. A time when this work will be completed. And every single, separate piece of that construction will fit together perfectly in the end.

In my life right now, I'm walking down a path that may not be the one I would have chosen for myself. I would have picked one where the traffic flow was light, where there were never detours, potholes, or lanes closed.

But I'm like the barrel, set down on the pavement only after a careful, promising plan was laid for me by the Creator of all creators. I love the quote above from John Piper, the thought that "God leads and plots for the glory of His people and He is at work in the worst of times". (summarized)

Just when I'm sitting in the middle of a mess of construction that is seemingly progressing more rapidly to worse than it is better, God reminds me that even though I feel this is what my life looks like, He had a plan in place, an end in sight before He ever put me where He did.

Sometimes we can't see God working. We struggle to understand His ways. We try to figure out how this part will fit together with that part later. But, like I trust that one day I'll be able to see the plans and the work of the State department come to fruition down I-65, I need to trust in God that one day I'll see why I've been where I've been, why it seemed He sometimes worked in puzzling ways that didn't make sense to me. I'll see my life for all He planned it to be.

"He is laying foundation stones of greater happiness in [my] life."

Thank you Lord, for paving this road for me. I know it will be much better for me than the one I would have chosen.

Cat Has A Name

2010-03-29T22:06:00.003-05:00

Mister Tubbs

Blind Men See

2010-03-25T20:28:00.009-05:00

From Sammy's sermon Wednesday night:

Mark 10:46-52
46 And they [Jesus and his disciples] came to Jericho; and as he was leaving Jericho with his disciples and a great multitude, Bartimae'us, a blind beggar, the son of Timae'us, was sitting by the roadside.
47 And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out and say, "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!"
48 And many rebuked him, telling him to be silent; but he cried out all the more, "Son of David, have mercy on me!"
49 And Jesus stopped and said, "Call him." And they called the blind man, saying to him, "Take heart; rise, he is calling you."
50 And throwing off his mantle he sprang up and came to Jesus.
51 And Jesus said to him, "What do you want me to do for you?" And the blind man said to him, "Master, let me receive my sight."
52 And Jesus said to him, "Go your way; your faith has made you well." And immediately he received his sight and followed him on the way.

"You have to cry out. You have to get up. You have to go on."

Blind Bartimaeus sat by the side of the road, depending on those who passed his way to drop coins in his lap. Coins that fed him, coins that gave him a place to dwell. He also depended on people to get him from home to the city gate, from the city gate to home, and he depended on them for food.

One day as Bartimaeus sat in the place where his friends had led him, he heard that Jesus was passing by. He began to cry out to Jesus. Loudly. He wanted Jesus to notice him. He made such a scene his friends told him to be quiet. Stop making such a fuss. (Your passion is embarrassing to us.) They rebuked him. He cried louder. And it worked. Jesus noticed him.

You have to cry out...

Bartimaeus had to decide that 'either Jesus is who he says He is, or I'm going to starve to death.' Because he was blind. He depended on those people who were telling him to shut up for his life.

Do we stake everything on Jesus being who He said He was?

Do we really believe the son of God that much?

Bartimaeus sat by the side of the road and he cried, "have mercy on me!" Jesus called the beggar to come to Him. He threw off his mantle and got to Jesus as quickly as he could. That mantle, his outer garment was the one holding the coins that had been his life-source before this Jesus. They fell by the wayside when he got up to go. (Don't be afraid to come to the Lord with empty hands and an even emptier heart.)

How amazing, how wonderful, how powerful when Jesus says, "Come here".

You have to get up...

Because when you cry out, He is going to answer and when He answers, you have to get up. His call for you to come demands a response.

We make every excuse why we can't get up and go to Him.

What if we got to the place in our lives where we just said to God what it is that we needed? With no thought as to whether or not we thought He could do it? What if we really trusted Him with our needs?

Jesus asks, "What do you want me to do for you?" Oh, how we skirt around that question. We tell Jesus all sorts of things, like how bad our enemies are, how wrongly we've been treated. We complain, we pity ourselves. We do everything but just tell him what it is we want....

Bartimaeus tells Jesus, "I just need to see."

And Jesus says to Bartimaeus, "Go on your way. Your faith has made you whole."

We love the part about our faith making us whole. We want to be whole. We forget about that "Go on your way" part though. We want to sit and talk about it, we want to dwell on how we feel.

Sometimes we use that newfound eyesight and go back to the wayside and say, "I'm waiting on the Lord..." We think He might come our way again and tell us something new. But we've overlooked the fact that when He made us whole, He sent us on our way....with the simple command to "Go". No more waiting on the Lord, He's already passed by. Follow Him.

We want to remain in that experience that gave us blindness, we want to sit in our problems that cover our eyes. We don't have the faith, the courage or the fortitude to get up and go on.

Bartimaeus got up and followed Jesus. He followed Him all the way to the cross. He never stopped following Him.

Bartimaeus cried out when He knew Jesus was coming, he knew he needed Jesus to gain his sight. When Jesus heard him cry out, and called to him, he got up. He answered Jesus' call. He dared not sit. He knew if you stay where you're at, you're never guaranteed He will pass that way again.

And when Jesus charged him to go on his way, he followed him. He knew that life would never be the same after Jesus had made him whole. There was nothing left for him in his old life. Nothing left for him there outside the gate of the city of Jericho, "by the way", with Jesus, he suddenly found himself "on the way." $

I can't think of a better place to be.

Off Day

2010-03-24T16:58:00.005-05:00

Sleep in a little. Nice.

Go to the eye doctor. My prescription is better. Sammy's is worse. Spend too much on glasses.

Eat at Cracker Barrell. I have breakfast, he has lunch.

Get hair cuts. No crying.

Go to Wal-Mart. Spend $100 on mostly cat food, toilet paper and sodas. Good grief.

Go to Brother Rusty's house. Leave a case of his favorite sodas with his mother for their trip to Pensacola. It's a sad trip, to bury his father.

As we drove away, Sammy shared that on his last day on the earth said to his wife with clarity and no sign of his dementia, "You look lovely today."

(God does miracles, and He gives beautiful gifts, don't you think?)

Go to an appliance repair store to purchase a heating element for water heater because the brand new water heater from the power company is leaking badly from the top element. We're just now getting it installed. Better late than never. Hope we have hot water tonight.

Go to Russell Ace Hardware. The same family has owned it for 30 years. They sold it and today happened to be their last day. I can't count the number of times we've been in there. Precious family; it won't be the same without them.

Because it's beautiful outside, spend some time driving around the back streets of Warrior. Admire the few really old pretty houses there are around here.

Go home.

Bring sodas, cat food, toilet paper in the house and put away.

Pull out old heating element from water heater. It's broken off. Weird. Put in new one. No leaking, so far, so good.

Check e-mails, facebook, write a blog post while Sammy watches old episodes of dirty jobs on his laptop. Does that show count as educational? They had a marathon on while we were at Wally and Kassandra's house and we're hooked.

Think about cleaning, but can't seem to get motivated to get out of the chair.

Now, going to start laundry so Sammy has a shirt to wear to church tonight.

Then, we'll go to church at WICOG (Warrior Independent Church of God). Sammy's dad's church. Sammy is preaching tonight.

Then, to bed. Please, Sammy don't preach too long : )

And there you have it, what a typical off day looks like!

Now We Start Working on 11....

2010-03-22T08:51:00.004-05:00

We're back safe and sound from our 10th Anniversary trip. We had fun with our friends, rested a little, ate a lot, and I don't know about Sammy, but I would have loved a few more days away. Columbus, MS is an interesting city. Like all cities, it seems you blink and you've gone from an idyllic little street lined with shops in old buildings to an area that looks a little worse for wear. I would have liked to have spent some time in the local antique shops and flea markets, but we didn't get the chance for that. Instead, we had breakfast with friends, and the celebration of life really is about people and not things anyway.

We crossed the state lines from Mississippi to Alabama and back more times than we could count, spending quite a bit of time in those places we can only describe as "no man's land". Though we might not know exactly where we were, it was definitely a pretty part of the country. There were lots of fields resting, with remnants of a cotton harvest, or blooming with clover. The landscape was dotted with old homesteads and barns, and in Columbus with beautiful old-south homes. We wandered through some back streets admiring the character and detail of architecture from so long ago.

Sunday morning, we went to church at Tabernacle UMC and Sammy preached there for Wally. They were having lunch afterwards, so we stayed for that and headed home from the church. We got home with just enough time for me to throw together some chocolate chip cookie brownies for the youth and go back to church, at our own church this time.

The drive itself really wasn't that bad, maybe 2 hours. The route from here to there is fairly direct. I hope Wally and Kassandra stay in Ethelsville for a few years so we can visit Columbus again!

The parsonage they are living in had to be extensively repaired/renovated before they could move in due to abuse and neglect from the previous pastor, so much of the house is fresh and new. It's one of my favorites of their homes. It was just very comfortable and felt like home. It was obvious how much care the church took in making the house a home for their pastor and his family. They even completely decorated the girls rooms for them.

As for the Lake Lowndes State Park, we never saw more of the lake than what we could see from the back porch of our cabin, but it was a pretty view. Some Canadian Geese stayed on the dock behind the cabin. The furnishings in the cabin were more utilitarian than comfortable, but they worked for the purpose. The beds were more comfortable than I expected them to be. We decided not to try to cook anything more elaborate than cereal, and I'm very glad of that.

It did seem most of the restaurants in the area had an ongoing theme of Steaks, Fish and Seafood. And, yes, apparently, there is a difference between fish and seafood. Just so you know. We chose Harveys for our dinner out on the day of our anniversary. We really enjoyed it. The food was great and the atmosphere was good, and service was spectacular. We would definitely recommend it.

After dinner, we went to a little mall and stopped by JC Penny first. After we looked around, we stopped by the jewelry counter to check a few things that were on sale, but didn't buy anything. The man who was working kindly offered to clean our rings for us. So we both have sparkly clean rings to celebrate 10 years.

I have to say is that I never thought 10 years could come and go this quickly. Some years have been better than others, and while this one hasn't had a great start, I'm believing that it is on the rebound now. During our marriage, we have had celebrations and sorrows, highs and lows, we've argued, we've dreamed about the future, we've spent time just being together alone or with friends and family enjoying the present as the gift that it is.

We have hosted friends, family and strangers in our home. We have counseled broken couples and lost individuals. We have labored to help people in need. We have been an unhurried presence to be with families who have experienced the loss of someone precious to them.

We have been completely and utterly stupid together. We have made mistakes, relationally, financially and literally. We have run out of gas (both on the side of the road and in the spiritual sense) and needed to be rescued by the side of the road, and we've been there for people who wore those same shoes.

We are at the same time, people who minister, and people who need to be ministered to. We are learners and teachers (disciplers and disciples). And even though sometimes he makes me want to lose my mind, I can't imagine doing all this with anyone else.

In just a few short months, Sammy will turn 34, we will most probably (though you can never guess what might be in store,) move to a new church and home, we will learn new names, which will be added to all those we have already known and loved. We will continue to minister together with hope for our future.

Token Gifts

2010-03-18T12:40:00.007-05:00

We're finishing up packing too much stuff to carry on our anniversary trip (as is our habit) and we've made arrangements for the kitties while we're gone. Tomorrow Sammy and I will be married for 10 years. I'm having a hard time believing that I've grown so old. Funny how it wasn't my birthday that did that to me, but our anniversary.

We've been so busy over the past 9 months we have missed Kayla and Kimberly's birthdays and even Christmas. So I didn't want to go down empty handed. I gathered a few little things up to make them some cute gifts.

They're nothing extravagant, just some fun girly stuff I hope they'll enjoy. It's not much, but I want them to know I love them.

Kassandra also gets her very own pocket-bac (it's my way of getting her to wear some smell-good stuff) and poor Wally. All we have for Wally is a silly tie with Popsicles on it that we got at the thrift store.

Can't wait to get to Columbus, MS/Ethelsville, AL for a restful weekend!

A Prayer

2010-03-16T21:24:00.004-05:00

One year and 10 days ago, I wrote this as part of a prayer in my journal.

In a million ways, it's what I'm saying to Him again right now, in this season of my life that is new, yet old.

I believe. But I'm like Thomas. I need to see Him, feel Him. I need Him to assure me.

"God, the only thing I know that is certain is You. And right now I need you to steady my heart, my mind and my hands. I need you to give me peace that Your will is being done and that you will provide for us."

Father, would you hear my prayer? Show me how you're working? I need you this day as much as I did then. Maybe even more.

Talk To Strangers

2010-03-16T11:00:00.002-05:00

Sometimes it's hard to know how to begin a conversation with a child you've never met before, especially one who seems shy or stand-offish. I have a hard time beginning conversations with anyone, even little people. They all intimidate me!

But, I've found that having a tangible something to bridge the gap into conversation helps immensely. For example, those wildly popular animal bracelets...

I ask kids about theirs. And I've noticed, the vast majority of them take them off and show me every single one. Even if there are 30 of them. If they don't take them off, they can very often tell which one is which while on their wrist. Or maybe they talk about other ones they have at home. Or that they even gave some to their siblings. Or they traded this one for that one. Or that one is broken (and they might actually be carrying the broken ones in their pocket, because even though their broken, they're still really cool to them).

Just this weekend, a little boy was looking painfully bored while his parents played music at the leadership table Sammy and I were helping with, so I talked to him about his animal bracelets. It changed his entire disposition for the whole weekend. He was a different boy. He just needed somebody to draw him out of his pout.

Asking about the animal bracelets is a jumping off point into other areas of conversation and relationship. Kids light up when they see you care about them enough to chat with them about something they're interested in.

I think that's really a human characteristic and not a unique distinction based on age. No matter how young or old, people just want to know they matter to you. It makes them feel special when you notice something about them.

I'm a detail girl, so I tend to notice the little things, and it helps me speak to new people without [as much] fear.

Are you that way, too?

I've noticed my husband (who is not shy at all) even uses a particular detail to strike up conversations with people: their tattoos.

See if noticing the little things about people and using them as a tool to start conversation makes talking to strangers a little less scary for you.

Transmission Flush

2010-03-15T16:49:00.003-05:00

Today, our car gave itself a transmission flush all over the parking lot of my work.

When we go to pick it up, I plan to ask it why it couldn't have been generous enough to do so just two short months ago before I paid the dealership $400 to provide the same service.

German cars must have a sick sense of humor.

Packing Again

2010-03-11T10:41:00.008-06:00

Over the span of one month, the end of January to the end of February, our suitcase rolled out the door of our house 4 weekends in a row. First, to Montgomery for Course Of Study. Next, to Tuscaloosa, to a women's retreat my mom and I attended. Next, to Gatlinburg for 4 days to a youth retreat Sammy spoke at. Finally, back to Montgomery for weekend two of Course Of Study. By the way, he made an A in that class, Hebrew Bible 2.

Beginning this weekend, it starts all over again. We're going tomorrow night to a Leadership Table event the Mountain Lakes District is hosting. We were roped in to help, in the beginning our district was involved & even though they aren't now, we've been to every planning session since November, I think....so we'll still be going.

Next weekend is our anniversary #10. We'll be going to Columbus, MS to stay in a cabin on the lake at Lake Lowndes. We'll be about 20 minutes away from our friends so we'll get to spend some quality time with them too. And then the next weekend, another Course of Study for Sammy. Something positive about Alabama COS is that it rotates from Huntingdon College in Montgomery to Birmingham Southern, so there are only travel plans for every other class. This time, it's in Birmingham, AND we have two cars now (which I am so thankful for) so that means I don't have to go.

Honestly, I hope April will be slower. But I know it's not likely to be. And while I'm thankful for having a life that's so full, sometimes in the midst of all this busyness, I seek rest. But then I happened to think, that going through life is a bit like following the flow of the river. Sometimes it's faster and rougher than others, and sometimes you wind up in stagnant water for longer than you'd prefer. But, either way, you're still in the same water when things are churning as you are when you wish for a wisp of the unexpected.

Woodpecker

2010-03-10T21:29:00.004-06:00

There's a dead tree in our front yard that I'm certain was killed by some pest infestation.

It's been delightful for this guy I'm sure. I knew there had to be woodpeckers at work here, but just spotted him yesterday. I can't believe how hard he pecks at that tree!

Please forgive my exceedingly amateur video, I took it very quickly with my camera and at the end, I lost the bird from sight! Oh well, it's still neat to watch.

Photos

2010-03-06T21:30:00.004-06:00

Those strange little birds that come and go every year. They amaze me with their ability to move so fluidly and in sync with one another.

There were more here than I've ever seen in one place before, right off I65.
We stopped on the side of the road while I snapped bad photos of insane birds.

I did try to take pictures of them at my house a week or so ago. But my crazy neighbors were setting of bottle rockets from their hands. Repeatedly.

The Big Kitty needs a name. And he and Caesar need to stop the hating. He's taken a liking to Sammy over the past few days in a big way.

The blossoms of our camellia tree are the prettiest thing in our yard right now.

That's a deceptive way of saying they are the only thing pretty in our yard.

The tree has a few babies right now. Anybody know the right time to dig them up? The flowers are the sweetest pale pink and is a brave bloomer...February and March.

One of the last pictures of our Oscar. I'm glad it's a precious one, not a sad one.

Today was a good day. We slept in, ate a big breakfast at home, and spent the afternoon with friends and their 3 sweet sons.

Please pray for our friend Kimberly. She's in the hospital with severe asthma and pertussis (whooping cough), along with reduced lung function from all she's been dealing with. She's a very sick little girl, and has a frustrated, worn out mom. Their family needs God to sweep through them all with healing and strength.

A Light Pours Out

2010-03-05T22:20:00.007-06:00

"We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jars containing this great treasure. This makes it clear that our great power is from God, not from ourselves." 2 Corinthians 4:7

We are fragile, made to be easily broken!

Not an absolute breaking, nor a breaking we cannot recover from...but a brokenness that yields for this treasure we bear in our hearts cracks and crevices to pour out of so that others may see Him through us.

In the mending of our souls, and the putting back together of the broken, even we ourselves are reminded that we need not rely on our own strength, but the strength of the Lord. Oh, He holds us together when even the strongest bond of our own creation fails to do so again and again.

Because brokenness will come. We will experience hurt and pain. But God's power is beyond all measure.

The times when our fragility is laid bare and shards of our brokenness are scattered far from the place where they landed may well be the most beautiful moments of God's perfect light streaming through the imperfections of our pierced souls. It may well be how we respond to those times that prove the word of our testimony better than any others. Only in a place of brokenness is the way we choose most sincerely a reflection of who we really are and not at all who we pretend to be.

Seeing someone who is broken made whole again by the same touch of the hands that made the vessel fragile from the very beginning is a moment that stirs wonder and sparks faith in the hearts of men.

No matter if the pieces fit back together perfectly.

No matter if the vessel is never the same again.

God calls it beautiful.

He calls it chosen.

He made it fragile.

And He loves it that way.

Somehow knowing that makes the hurts I've known less important, and makes Him more important. His greatness overshadows all other things. And even when I'm broken, there is good in it, because of the Lord in my life.

Unexpectedly Good

2010-03-05T12:42:00.004-06:00

We just don't expect big companies to be good to us any more, we the people. So, even the smallest gestures surprise the heck out of us.

Sammy needed a book for his upcoming Course Of Study, and no one locally had it. We even waited a few days and called one of the stores back, because they told us it was on order the first time we called. We needed it right now, so I bit the bullet and paid $25 to ship it overnight. I figured if I was going to pay that much for shipping, I would at least order the little $5 book that had been waiting around in my wish list to order whenever the time was right.

By noon yesterday, the book we needed was promptly delivered to our front porch...but when Sammy opened the package, the other book wasn't included. We talked about calling to check on a refund but we got the book we needed and knew the other book wouldn't cost any extra when it's shipped later, so we weren't too worried about it.

I had a very pleasant surprise in my inbox this afternoon from Amazon and thought I would share it with you. Honestly, if you do buy a lot of books....Amazon is the place to do it. I would say I get at least 75% of our books from them and this will just make me happier to give them so much money.

Greetings from Amazon.com.

We're writing to let you know we processed your refund of $11.49 for your Order....

This refund is for the following item(s):

Item: My First 90 Days in Ministry: How to Make a Splash Without Getting All Wet
Quantity: 1
Reason for refund: Item shipped late

Here's a the breakdown of your refund for this item:

Shipping Refund: $11.49

We look forward to seeing you again soon.

Sincerely,

Amazon.com
We're Building Earth's Most Customer-Centric Company
http://www.amazon.com

We got the book we needed, when we needed it, we got a refund on 1/2 the shipping meaning the other book is basically free, with $6.50 to spare.

Today, Amazon is my hero.

My Wife Had To Approve Our Marriage! AGAIN!

2010-03-02T08:58:00.001-06:00

I have recently joined the masses of people that have given name and face to themselves on facebook.

How fun.

I thought it was neat that when you send a friend request it tells you the person must confirm that you are friends. Kind of neat and a little un-nerving because you wonder if they deny you does it mean they don't remember you, don't like you or just can't be bothered.

I had fun the other night finding people I hadn't seen since High school. Friend requesting them, viewing profiles etc.

I am glad to say that most of them have confirmed me. Many of these people I haven't seen or talked to in more than 10 or 15 years.

So I noticed in all my facebook-ing (Is that a word?) that I can add my spouse on my info page.

I thought okay I'll add Linda. (As if I had another, or another would have me.)

The next thing I knew a window came up that told me Linda would have to confirm we are married.

The first thing I thought was "I wonder if she will approve it or not."

I mean she said yes the first time but would she be willing to admit to that mistake....ehr action again. I wondered so I called my beautiful bride of 10 years and asked. Did you confirm that I am your husband on facebook yet.

Her answer?

She said, "no."

Which is what she said the first time I asked her to be my wife. Before she said Yes.

So here's hoping she approves again.

Well, If We Weren't....

2010-03-02T06:12:00.003-06:00

Facebook sent me an e-mail that said: "Sammy has updated his relationship status to say that you two are married. He has listed your anniversary as March 19, 2000."

Well, if we weren't that would be a little awkward, now wouldn't it? : )

Since I joined facebook recently, I've noticed something else kind of funny about it....all my e-mails come from them.....and I think I've finally figured out why some of my friends never respond to my e-mails. They're all logged in on facebook and not their e-mails.

The Places We Go

2010-03-01T14:19:00.004-06:00

See that square past the end of the yellow line? That's where we'll be spending our anniversary this year!

But contrary to what that square appears to be, we will not be sleeping in a tent for three nights. We'll be staying at the Lowndes County State Park in a cabin on the lake. Their rates are very affordable. In comparison to the hotel we had thought about staying in for our Anniversary, we're getting all three nights for the price of a one night stay in the hotel. And, these cabins are right on the bank of the lake.

The park is in Columbus, MS and other than it, I have no idea what the town has to offer. But just across the state line in....Ethelsville, AL....is the current residence of the best friends we've ever had. Our friends Wally and Kassandra and their two girls, Kayla and Kimberly are pastoring at Tabernacle UMC right now. For many of their moves, Sammy and I have helped pack boxes, scrub baseboards, direct boxes being unloaded from U-hauls and dug into putting stuff away in the new house. We've been to every parsonage, and every church. Except for this one. And it's been 9 months!

So we called them last night after church and asked them if they were busy on our anniversary weekend and if they would mind us coming down to spend some time with them. They didn't have any major plans, so we told them we were coming. We'll be able to go to church with them on Sunday morning and be home before church that night. We might be tired, but it will be worth it : )

Their daughter Kayla is somewhat responsible for the fact that Sammy and I are even married, because at the time, she and I were inseparable. I had a toddler seat in my car at all times. I told Sammy that he needed to meet my friends because if Kayla didn't like him, there was no sense in us dating. That baby is growing up. She'll be 15 years old in about 5 months.

I was telling Kassandra today that I'm thankful for her because it never matters how long it's been since I've called her, I can call her in literally any situation, whether I'm angry, or crying, or so excited I can't speak real words. And she can do the same with me. It never seems like more than a day passes, even if it's really been months.

And even though I've never set foot in this particular house of theirs before, it's their home, and I know I'm welcome to run in to use their bathroom before I even say a good hello. I know I'm welcome to fall asleep on their couch. I know I'm welcome to get whatever I want from their refrigerator. I'm welcome to know I'd be in big doo-doo if I didn't make myself at home. They all adopted Sammy and loved him too. Maybe at first it was because we loved each other, but it became just because they do. He and Wally have their own special kind of relationship. They might sit at the dining room table for hours without actually speaking (do grunts count as speech?), but swapping ring tones on bluetooth for their phones and playing with their computer stuff. And Sammy and Kassandra, well, their special kind of love for each other usually involves pain, a good chase around the yard and Sammy's cheeks turning purple from embarrassment.

I can't wait. Can't wait to see them, spend some time with them, then escape for some quiet and relaxation in a little cabin on the lake. We're just a few weeks away now!

The Good, The Bad, And The Uh-Oh

2010-02-26T09:09:00.004-06:00

Note to Sammy And Linda: When shopping for a car in the future, please move 'auto turnoff for exterior lights' to the top of the list of priorities.

Because a car isn't a car if you can't make it move when you get in and turn the key.

Further Note: Please buy a key chain that says "Turn Off The Freakin' Lights" in neon colors that also glow in the dark. Or better yet, buy a key chain that sends a gentle electric shock (is there such a thing) when it senses you've left the lights on in your car.....again.

Last Friday, Sammy left the lights on in the car all day long, and not surprisingly, the battery was dead...dead...dead and the car had to be jumped off.

Last night, I did the same thing. (Sammy laughed at me.)

Good....Auto Turn off for lights, or, brains that remember to manually perform that simple function

Bad....Forgetting, dead batteries, and having to tell the security guard at work that you're a dumb girl and need him to jump your car off.

Uh-oh....I have to call Sammy and tell him I've joined him in the ranks of forgetting the lights---he's gonna laugh at me :(

I'm going to look for electric shock key chains : ) and to check and make sure I turned off the lights in the car.

Happy Friday everyone!

Come Together Now

2010-02-23T07:29:00.003-06:00

Breakfast Is Served

2010-02-22T09:17:00.004-06:00

Sammy has been on a kick of eating freezer breakfast sandwiches lately and while eating this type of packaged food is still a good bit cheaper than eating out, I've been thinking I could do better, definitely in price and maybe in quality.

So I gave it a shot this weekend.

I bought eggs, Kraft singles, Great Value brand english muffins and Royal Sausage. My home-made sandwiches cost $.61 each, so I came in $.39 less than Wal-Mart's price on the same kind of sandwich from Jimmy Dean.

I sent him to work with sandwiches for the week and told him to let me know how mine stack up against "theirs". The verdict? Way better.

Yea!

Now I just need some tips on how to wrap stuff like that for the freezer, should I decide I want to make enough for the whole month at one time instead of just one week at a time. I wrapped these in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Does anybody have a better idea?

Letters Of Love

2010-02-19T22:09:00.009-06:00

I bought some colorful, glittered paper die cuts in the shape of butterflies and flowers to embellish letters to Allison, or to send to her as a gift. As I was making my selection, the thought occurred to me that one of the personally beneficial reasons for people who sponsor children to write them frequently is to keep them in the forefront of our minds.

I find it's during those periods when I haven't written to her in a while, I have a hard time thinking of things to say or ask of her when I do make myself write out of guilty obligation. But when I do write to her regularly, I find myself thinking, I could tell Allison that! Or, I could ask her if she's ever seen…..snow…..elephants….birthday cake.

I also notice that writing with regularity keeps her in the forefront of my mind. Whenever I see things made of paper (that fit within the guidelines of what can be sent), she immediately pops into my mind (little precocious hands on hips and all). Chocolate scented stickers, glittered paper die cuts, scrapbook packs with punched out borders and frames, and sticker letters that I can spell her name out in, pictures of stuff we've been to see, that she may never experience apart from our sharing with her.

It's in writing the letters I'll get to know her and she'll get to know me, and we'll come to truly know one another and love and relationship will grow between us. It seems to me it's that way with God's letters to us too. The more we read of Him and His words to us, the more we know about Him, the more we think about Him and the more we want to do for Him and give to Him.

It may take a little work, an investment of time, and there may be costs associated with it, but if He's going to be established in my heart like I hope I'll be in hers someday, the letters have to be precious to me.

Smile Because It Happened

2010-02-18T15:52:00.007-06:00

Today we laid Oscar to rest. (I say we, but really, I was of no help at all.)

Through all of the really big events in his life, Sammy has been there to carry him through.

He carried Oscar down from the attic when he was a kitten and first came into our lives.

Then when he was old enough, Sammy took him to the vet for his "no more boy" surgery. Sammy apologized to him the whole way there.

And finally today, Sammy carried him from sickness and suffering to peace through the hands of medicine. The doctors say we made the right decision.

But my heart is injured just the same.

"Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it happened." Dr. Seuss