A recent trip to the optometrist found me staring blankly at a prescription for glasses. Stunned, I fumbled my way through the many shapes, shades and styles of frames and lenses. To be quite honest, I wasn't all that surprised. I'd been having trouble reading stories to the kids at bed time lately, passing it off as just being tired. Turns out I just needed a couple of pieces of glass on my nose. In my defense, I've had 20/20 vision all my life, until now. I keep telling myself that they're only for reading, and working at the computer, and evening driving. They still feel weird on my face but I've learned a little lesson on sight and perception.
I believe that every physical happening carries with it a spiritual parallel. I can indeed see better with the new spectacles. No doubt about it. However, I didn't actually realize just how much I needed glasses, how much better I was able to see with them, until I got a little uncomfortable and put them on. Duh. But it's like that with our faith in God too. You go about life doing good, what you know our Heavenly Father has set you off to do. But somewhere along the way our vision becomes ever so slightly blurred or altered or because of age, somehow deteriorates. I know I become discouraged because of fatigue, circumstances, an ill spoken word meant as advice and sometimes for now apparent reason at all.
As of late, my spiritual eyes have been opened to some ugly stuff. At first it's easy to point a judgemental finger in blame but then I realize that I'm doing the very same thing. Oh ya, I'm guilty of laziness, half truths, idolatry, doubt, and whole list of garbage I know very well I shouldn't be a part of.
My little peepers have also been opened to how I've let myself be sucked into traditions and patterns of this world. It's so easy to bet distracted - I like bright shiny things, loud noises and lots of people. In stepping back a bit, the Lord has also revealed things for what they really are. Well, as much as I can handle anyway. Good thing He's gracious and patient.

SO anywho, sorry for the heavy but hey, that's where I'm at right now. Lots of brain things going on. Life is otherwise good. How could it not be...we are so blessed! I'm always so encouraged to hear from you friends, and if you're a lurker, stop and leave a note. It's rude to stand at the window just staring in.

Cheers!

A book I finished a while ago has made me rethink my faith in terms of who I am as a wife and mother. The author Debi Pearl is very clear on how she views our womanly roles and what the Bible has to say about daily living. Ya, the practical side of our faith, cuz really that's what we're called to. There are some specifics about everyday stuff regarding marriage, and it's absolutely filled with scripture. Here's a bit of the beginning. But don't take my word for it, pick up a copy if you get a chance or let me know if you'd like one from me (a friend and I are going to order a whack of 'em to pass around). Love and hugs to you all!




Somewhere over the passing years and changing culture, women have lost their way. This book is written to lead them back home. Regardless of how you began your marriage or how dark and lonely the path that has brought you to where you are now, I want you to know that it is possible today to have a marriage so good and so fulfilling that it can only be explained as a miracle.

It took four years, thousands of hours, many tears, revisions and distractions, but I finally finished my book. I had no idea God had so much to say to us ladies until I began going through God’s Word verse by verse, writing the different sections of Created to Be His Help Meet. Many times as I read a passage, I would say to my husband, “I’m not going to include those verses in my book because if I do the ladies (of any religious group you can think of including my own) will not like my book or promote it.” My dear husband would say to me, “If God thought it was important enough to inspire it as part of his Word to us, then you should include it.” And so I would cringe and add one more controversial subject after another.

So in obedience with Titus 2, where God commands the aged women to teach the younger women, I have obeyed and given you the very best I can do — 27 chapters, 304 pages, including letters from my readers, recounting counseling sessions, wisdom gleaned from my daughters, my own very personal stories, and, of course, the Word of God. It includes subjects as varied as planning meals to answering extremely intimate questions.

Everybody's at home today on this grey quiet Tuesday! We're all fighting coughs, aches, stuffy noses. Let's all say it together... H1N1! Maybe. But we have been advised to stay home until better. So we've been reading tons, watching a few movies and playing A LOT. And of course loading up on vitamins, probiotics and essential oils.

I ventured out today to buy food, we still have to feed kids even though both M and I feel like terrible. And upon picking up the mail I found a parcel from a cousin of mine in Winnipeg. In it, a kids CD by the group Alphabet Soup. My favorite song - "Spider Mom". (to the theme music of the old Spider Man show, of course.)

Spider-Mom, Spider-Mom
Wipes the little spider bums
Whips a meal up anywhere
Folds up socks and underwear
Look Out! There goes the Spider-Mom

Spider-Mom, Spider-Mom
Wipes up spills of milk and crumbs
Makes the snacks, combs your hair
Makes sure kids wear underwear
Look Out! There goes the Spider-Mom

In the heat of the night
At the sound of the chime
If she hears a cry
She arrieves just in time

Spider-Mom, SpiderMom
Wipes off sinks and bathtub scum
You can count on her to care
But you'll never see her underwear
Look Out!

Whoever needs a Band-Aid
Someone wants some Kool-Aid
She's sure to come to your aid
You'll find the Spider-Mom

I found another of their songs on YouTube for ya. Fun stuff.

So that's weird...

I don't know about you, but I'm one of those moms who loves doing stuff with my kids around the house. Sometimes it's a kid initiated activity, sometimes stuff in the kitchen, or my fave...cleaning! So today after I'd dropped off our youngest at preschool for the afternoon, and our oldest (he's been at home for 10 days since his tonsillectomy....ya, another story for another time) I came home to an empty house and list of things to do a mile long. As it turns out, it's only taken me a quarter of the time to finish "the list". Huh. I knew kids can slow ya down, I just never realized how much. But I'll take three crazy munchkins over household efficiency anytime.

"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer." Romans 12:12

Father, help me to live with a focus on what will last.

Tales from the Crypt

"Knick Knacks" from an eight year olds perspective are the stuffed (via taxidermi, ya real...the once alive type) animals lining the tops of the book shelves in the schools library.

Tiny bits of paper no bigger than my thumb nail with a bit of scribble on them are valuable literary resources for the set of Polly Pockets living all.over.the girls room.

Cats do know how to play dead. You flip a kitten over in your hand about three feet off the ground and they just go limp. (It works really well with the little ones 'cuz they can't get away. Or scratch.)

God's sense of humor: give a gal some crazy curly hair, let a slight breeze whip a couple of strands around the side of her neck and watch her FREAK OUT screeming "AHHhh, get that bug off-a-me!!!!" all in front of a bunch of kids on the play ground. Good times. Now they all think I'm, I mean she's crazy(er).

That's all for me folks. How was your week?

Word-smith extrodinaire.

A few days a week I help out at the public school my kids attend as an Educational Assistant. Once in a while filling in for the secretary. Today was one such day.

While working quietly at the days tasks I was interrupted by a snicker/chortle/giggly laugh coming from the principle, whose office is connected to the main one where I was. She looked up, from her "you're gonna be on hold for a long time" phone call and repeated the country-western song playing on the hold loop - "God is good, beer is great and people are crazy..."

I've no idea who sings the song, nor the tune, which I think might be funny to hear, but I did think to myself how very true that bit of the sentence really is. Except for the beer. (Why anyone would put something that smells like horse urine in their mouth is beyond me.)

If you hear it, or care to look it up, send me the link!

Good bye heart. Again.

People in your life come and go. Some are close. Some are not. Some you can't wait to exit, others you'd like to hold onto forever.

I have had my fair share of good byes to say over the years. Good bye to child hood friends, familiar neighborhoods, broken toys. Good bye to people I really, really loved whom I'll see again one day when I stand by my Heavenly Father's side. Don't get me wrong, I take comfort in the fact that we'll be reunited. And the childhood sentiments, well, perhaps they are just that.

Today I said good bye to a dear friend. No, she's not passing from this world to the next, but she is moving away from here. Not around the world, but it feels like it when distance is an issue. We'll keep in touch most definately, but you and I both know how things change when you simply can't sit over tea very often for a good long chat.

An unlikely match originally, we've formed a close connection. Much like sisters, sharing a lot in common and bickering over that which we didn't. We've laughed, we cried, we've been there for each other - like so many other sisters I have had in the past. Really, I have been blessed by having had the privillage of knowing some pretty amazing women in my short lifetime. And we all phone,write, message, read each others blogs, visit when it's possible, staying connected on some level. But it saddens my heart to know we won't be in each others presence often, to offer a much needed hug or pat on the back.
The friendships continue but how I do wish I could live in a town filled with ALL my favorite people. Where we could always share a meal, a laugh, a cry or a hug. To be close by.

And that is the reality of life. People coming and going. Saying our hellos and good byes. Loving and letting go. I am reminded of the passage in Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 1 There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under heaven:
2 a time to be born and a time to die,
a time to plant and a time to uproot,
3 a time to kill and a time to heal,
a time to tear down and a time to build,
4 a time to weep and a time to laugh,
a time to mourn and a time to dance,
5 a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
a time to embrace and a time to refrain,
6 a time to search and a time to give up,
a time to keep and a time to throw away,
7 a time to tear and a time to mend,
a time to be silent and a time to speak,
8 a time to love and a time to hate,
a time for war and a time for peace
So there you have it my friends. That's what's going in my life today. Wish you all lived closer. We'd have tea and a good long sit.

NEED A GOOD LAUGH?

Hey readers! I haven't the time to post anything deep or inspirational and my life is, well just regular life right now. (Though I've been doing some pondering about a few things, I'll share those with you another time.) However, there's a new blog I've recently found that is absolutely hilarious! Take a few minutes to check it out...it will have you howling!

Hopeless Romantic finds Great New Song...

Huh...

So, I've not blogged in a while. Lots has happened since my last post I'm sure, but nothing life changing, at least for me anyway. Here's a list:

1. The "wedding of the century" went off without a hitch. My sister-in-law and now brother-in-law make a fantastic couple. Terribly expensive tastes, but they have heart.
2. We installed new windows. By we I mean hubby and friends. Yay for boys!
3. Many dead trees where hacked down in the back 40 of our ginormous yard. Again, hubby and friends. Let's say it together...Yay boys!
4. Said hubby sliced his hand fixing my fishing rod. He's better now but can't fish for a while. Or drive. Or chop wood. Or wash his pits cuz he's not supposed to get the wound wet. Yay me!
5. The rest of the summer we plan to play with the kids, putter around the yard and perhaps do a bit of camping. Our summer budget will also have to extend into fall as we have not one but two family weddings (technically 3 but the third one's in Connecticut!). Both are out in Manitoba, and both we HAVE to be at. You know, immediate family and all that. But it's good. Time we head out that way anyway. We had planned to possibly go out to BC this summer. Oh well. Maybe Christmas? Next year, provided people stop getting married in our families!! That's all for now.

PS: "Those people" did after all invite us to come on their exclusive fishing trip, last minute. (No one else was able to make it, other than the grandparents and they wanted someone for their kid to play with...) We declined on account of hubby's hand injury and the fact we've just returned from a long trip. Desperation or an extension of friendship? Again, I'll keep you posted.

Talk about awkward...

Here's a little snippet from my too-busy-to-blog-'cause-it's-summer life for ya.

Last week my eldest child and I were car pooling with the soccer coach and her family to an away soccer game. Nice people, our boys are friends, she totes the jerseys, I bring the sack of soccer balls. It's all good. Along the way we were chit chatting about this and that when the topic of fishing comes up. We love to fish as do they, but we've never ventured out together. Suddenly their son pipes up, "You should come out to Waterhen Lake with us when we go on our big group fishing trip! D'ya wanna?"

At this point, I feel you should know that these are not regular get your hands dirty, sweat a little in the sun, sleep on the ground, camping type of people. These are people with a whole lot of money and a whole group of friends in the same fishing boat. With 100ft. motor homes. SUV's. Gigantic fishing boats. $$$$$. A clique, of which we aren't really a part of in any way shape or form. It's a fact and we're ok with that. (You learn early on who you can and can't hang out with when you live in a small town.) We really are alright with the fact that they've got their friends and we won't likely cross over to "that side" short of a few hundred thousand $smackers$. REally, it's ok. It was just a tiny bit awkward though, when their kid asked if we'd come on their exclusive fishing trip. He's obviously oblivious to the societal hierarchy that maps out our place in this area. He has no idea that unlike his parents, we do have to watch our pennies, a big trip like that with all the frills could really break our bank. (Especially this summer with M's sister getting married and I'm the matron of honor, and our dresses and suits are costing a mint, and the showers and...that's better left for another time!)

Anyway, what did I say in return? Something like, "Uhhh, well...I dunno..." And we left it at that with a bit of awkward silence for what seemed an eternity. Lucky for me, the crisis was averted by a giant pot hole in the road to swerve around followed by the delightful banter between the two boys over who squished who just then when the vehicle bounced out of danger. Sigh. Ignorance is bliss yet again.

I'll let you know if they do actually invite us. But don't hold your breath. Cheers!

Mother's Day

Began the morning with a head in a fog for lack of sleep
Awake too early
And of course I'll read to you my darlings

A soaked sheet, more laundry again
But night time accidents do happen
Poor kid

Sticky fingers, gooey syrupy smiling faces
And a batch of kisses to match
Thanks dad for helping prepare our morning meal

Gifts, all hand made by little fingers that used to
stroke my cheeks as you nursed, my babes
Now are so adept at crafting these treasures

You are thoughtful and caring
You pay special attention to the day marked on the calendar
You decidedly go out of your way to pour out your little hearts
Showing me your love

Thank you my little ones, for making this day my day...
Mother's Day.

6 Takes...

1. Swimming was a blast today. We've just recently started a new session of lessons for the kids and stayed for public swimming afterward today. FUN! Though strangely enough I did get a little nervous in the deep end, 11ft. deep doesn't sound like much, but when you can't see or feel the bottom, it gets a little iffy. Being afraid in the deep water was a little foreign to me, I used to love diving and playing in the deeps. Must be getting old I guess. Hmm.

2. Found a couple of cute pieces to wear to next weekends bridal show I'm putting on for my sister in law. I did realize though, that I'm not so great at picking out things that go together or my sizes. Especially not with the newest trends. Glad there was a clerk there to snap me out of that dear in the headlights look. And she had a great sense of color. And she said I was "just oh so teeny and could wear just about anything!" Ya right lady, just find me the next size bigger...

3. Any bridal shower ideas floating around out there? Games, poems, funny stories you want to share??

4. I CAN'T WAIT FOR THINGS OUTSIDE TO REALIZE IT'S SPRING! I'm waiting on a variety of bulbs we planted last fall to start poking their heads thru the soil. Today's rain should help.

5. Geez, M's been sick a long time. Cold, flu, fever, cough, sore throat, and now swollen glands on the sides of his neck. He's been to see the dr. but was told it was viral. Which stands to reason, we've all been fighting the same stuff minus the neck lumps, for a couple of weeks now. Yuck.

6. Easter break was relaxing. We got around to quite a few things we'd been putting off and are in the beginning phases of PROJECT HOUSE RETROFIT. (We're putting in new windows and doing some painting of the exterior. Lot's of work but God is good. He gets us thru despite ourselves.

Come on and take a FREE RIDE

I love Audio Adrenaline songs. Especially this one. I tried to use it along side a series of video taped snap shots of a weekend youth retreat at the Bible college I attended years ago. The video footage was super cool, full of crazy young people having fun and doing silly stuff. We organizers had planned to show it during the last gathering, just before the kids left. You know, after they'd spent a weekend of not sleeping, goofing around, and maybe making a connection with Jesus. (Emotional vulnerability + lack of sleep = life long memories.) This song would have been perfect. Who wouldn't want a free ride, a ticket into heaven. If you listen to the words, or look em up yourself (or unless you can read the Spanish subtitles...sorry) I'm sure you'll agree that it's a very fitting song. Besides, musically it ROCKS!
BUT, the president of the college at that time said "No." No matter how much I pleaded, "No." You have to understand, it was vetoed last minute, and I really didn't have any other song choices picked - my head was set on FREE RIDE. I even made him listen to it a few times shortly before the thing was to be played. Still "NO." He knew which side his bread was buttered on. (The argument was that the board of the school would likely not approve, as this song choice was not written originally by Christian influences, rather by weed smokers in the 1960's.) So obligingly, though begrudgingly, I scrambled to find another song. I can't recall just now what it was we used instead but I'm sure it didn't have the same effect as FREE RIDE would have. Oh well. Now I listen to it cranked up loud and my kids look at me kinda like I've two heads as I dance around with my air guitar singing at the top of my lungs.

They need our prayers right NOW!

So I know all of our lives are busy and there's always someone out there who needs our fervent prayers, but today I'm asking you to help out with something, someone specific. I don't know the family, I just read a bit of the mothers blog that I found a link to on another blog. However, I am asking you, who ever you are (I know most of you who stop by here, but this is also for those I don't know) to help out. We need to pray for a little guy who might not make it. You can read about it here and in more detail here. Prayer changes things and we are all connected as the body of Christ not matter how far apart we are. Pass it along if you feel lead to do so. And thanks.

Leprechauns, Fairies and the Easter Bunny

Conversation after watching Disney's new "Tinkerbell" movie:

"Are fairies real, Becca?"

Pause

"Nope. Only in books, and that movie mommy."

"Are you sure?"

"uh, YA!"

It never ceases to amaze me how well adults execute pretend play. Almost every month and depending on the ages of your kids, perhaps on a weekly basis. As today's title indicates, I'm talking about those adults who play up all the imaginary characters of the seasons. Christmas, of course, Santa. February, cupid. March, the leprechauns of Ireland. April, the Easter bunny. There's a five month break over the summer season, then right back into the pretending at Halloween. If you've got school aged kids, somewhere in there they'll loose a tooth or two, collecting $$ from the Tooth Fairy.

We've never "done" the whole believe in imaginary gift givers thing, until our eldest lost his first tooth. I must admit, I played tooth fairy for the first couple of pearly whites. Not sure why, maybe guilt, because we tell them there's no Santa or Easter bunny. Anyway, I was gripped by the conviction that I was willfully deceiving my kid. For the sake of watching his eyes light up in awe and wonder...at the possibility of there being something out there that knows him and his teeth and cares enough to leave a gift. I love the imaginations kids have, I love that they see things a little differently than we adults do. And I love to pretend play with them. However, there's something different I want their eyes to light up with awe at. Rather there's someone who I deeply desire them to know - the One who knows all about their teeth, the hairs on their heads, all their thoughts and desires. I need to help them unwrap those gifts they've been given, and help them really see just how valuable what they have is. So much more than a few coins under the pillow in the morning.

So, we no longer do the tooth fairy thing, they still get a few $$ in exchange for their teeth. What I'll do with those yucky little things I've no idea (kid-tooth necklace anyone?). We do make good use of all the discounted chocolate and stuff after all the hoopla of the major holidays. We do dress up, hide stuff to find as treasure hunters. We take the time to learn about the origins of celebrated holidays marked on the calender, mostly cuz I'm a geek that way and find it fascinating.

My hope and prayer is that while we're teaching and enjoying our kids that God's best for them will permeate their foundations. Not just because mom and dad said so, but because they know their Heavenly Father. I don't claim to be perfect, nor do I have the answers, so if you do, PLEASE tell me what you think. And have a happy March 17th!

WEEEeeeeeeeeee and then uggghhhhhhh

The title about sums it up people. Surgery went fine. I'm back at home just 9 hours later, up and walking about. Still a little woozie. Belly button hurts a little and my motor skills are kind of sluggish. The only complaint about the whole thing would be the multiple puncture wounds I sustained in my left hand/forearm where they tried to find a vein. Apparently veins collapse when your dehydrated from having to fast and abstain from water. Go figure. And like numerous surgery veterans attested to, you really do just drift off to sleep, or in my case fall off abruptly. I'm sure I was mid sentence. Then you wake up two hours later feeling like you've just had a great.nap. What ever drug was in my IV bag may have helped that feeling of happiness along. A friend once said that's the "shiny" feeling. And I agree. So, I'm going to go sip some soup and veg out for a bit. Thanks for the prayers.

Open Hernial Umbilical Repair *(OHUR)

1. I'm going in for surgery today to fix my herniated belly button. Think there's any chance they'll do a little lypo while they're there?

2. I hate not sleeping because of nervousness. (See #1)

3. I love breakfast. I really do. I've become dependant upon it. Therefore I hate having to fast when told to do so. (Again, see #1)

4. Thought it might be kind of funny to try a foggy minded post later today. I've never been put under before. Heck, I've never even had stitches or broken bones. So this will be a new adventure. One that I'm not really sure of. I know it needs to be done so I'll no longer be endangered by a section of my intestines protruding from my once inney belly button, but really the whole thing just seems kind of weird to me. But God knows and that's good. He knows when I lay down and get up. All the hairs on my head. The number of day's I get to walk this earth and who I'll love and be loved by.

Anywho, until later, have a fantastic Thursday!

Free Stuff

Hey, Go over to Angela's blog "Hanging out The Wash". She's got one more giveaway for this month - an absolutely beautiful painting. This Canadian artist is amazingly talented and is definately worth checking out! (And she's a friend of mine from long ago so go say hi!) Happy Thursday to you friends!

Wednesdays ponderings just for you.

Alright, I'll just come out and say it...I think it would be super cool to be a star. You know, a musical genius, a profound speaker, an accomplished artist of some form, to inspire the masses. Travel the world sharing my talent, impacting regions of desolation by raising awareness and support, minister to crowds gathered to hear what God would have me impart from Him. To touch greatness.
But...(you had to know that was coming) I'm not. I'm not those things at all. I've studied music throughout grade school and high school (flute and baritone, thank you). I can sing, though the crowds I might gather might consist of only a few stray alley cats and that weird dog that howls all. the. time. Can't really see myself travelling world wide just yet, though we do often talk about missions trips, with or without family in tow. I love to speak, but perhaps am not ready to face crowds, at least that's what I assume cuz there's no one pounding down my door for bookings. I know how to paint...walls and stuff, water color and oil are iffy, I enjoy sketching but that's mediocre at best.
So,I'm just me and I'm ok with that. Many of us yearn to be something greater than we currently are, to reach fame or status on some level. I have really good friends and people I sort of know and it seems they're all really good at something. I'd love to be really good at something. Anything.
Though it's not wrong, I don't think, to want to do well in life and use the talents God's given us, I do see a flaw in striving to be something we're not. It doesn't work. Like a square peg in a round hole. You might be able to jam it in there, might do a bit of damage along the way, but in the end it's all just wrong. So there you have it, I'm me and you're you and perhaps the only greatness I'll ever reach is knowing that my Father is the King of Kings. That's good enough for me. Guess it'll have to be.
Cheers friends!

First Baby

So I attended my first birth the other day as an aspiring doula. And it was
FREAKING AWESOME MAN!!!
Ahem. Pardon me. As you can tell I still excited about it. I've been studying and preparing for births for some time now but like any other career in life, the schooling for it never quite fully prepares you for what you'll see and do. Now, you'd think having birthed three wee ones myself, I'd have experience to back me up. And while that is true, helping someone else birth their offspring is a whole other kettle of fish.
I can not however, give you any info. in great detail, that would be a breech of confidentiality on my part. But I will tell you that the female human body is something amazing to watch in live action. The female mind, when focused and determined is a powerful force. And those two working together to bring forth this miracle we call life is simply amazing. It's nothing like what you see on t.v., well, perhaps for a few ladies. But really, the whole thing was very surreal. Quieter and more peaceful than I'd remembered of my own three times at it, but perhaps the unsteadiness I remember was more internal. Emotions and thoughts trapped in my own head and not neccessarily heard out loud. As this babe was born into a very peaceful, beautiful energy, the room hushed in anticipation of who would emerge. With tears of joy, I feel very privileged and humbled to have witnessed one of life's most amazing happenings...the beginning of life outside the womb.

Hmm.

Life is interesting. We are taught to plan ahead, set some goals, know where you're going and be prepared. But does it ever really work out the way we plan? Sometimes. Sometimes not. I can think of friends who recently decided to take on a new business venture. That wasn't planned a year ago. Other friends who are now not sure where they'll be living and what they'll be doing next fall. And still others who are deeply questioning a drastic career change. And there are others we know who have painstakingly worked toward lofty goals and have done so with flying colors. I admire all of them, being able to roll with the punches, and also those who are dedicated to a plan. But I do sometimes wonder if all our planning and scheming is really worth all our sweat and tears and sleepless nights of worry. "Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything." Phillipians 4:6 Easy to say, harder to live. I guess I'm reminded once again that I'm not in control. He is. Thank goodness!
How about you, what's got your mind occupied friends?

Sum-ting Stinkee

Something stinks in my laundry room. Not the usual dirty sock smell that sometimes graces my de-stinkify room. Nope not a sock. Something else. I noticed it this morning when I went to start up the machines. I wish my dh were here to help me find the source of the reek. Or at least to verify that it does indeed smell funkier than usual down there - I'd feel a little less crazy. Just a little.

But it's like that in life isn't it? We need the strengths of our spouses or those close to us to help us when we notice somethings not quite right. Like when you're about to make a dumb decision or after you've reacted poorly to circumstances. Again. I love that about my husband. He's got quite a radar about stuff. And is becoming quite good at tactfully pointing out the "stink" he's noticed. As iron sharpens iron, we need each other. And I love that.


Totally different topic, my artist friend Angela is having free giveaways this month to celebrate her birthday. Go to her blog to enter. You could win something really great like this beautiful decorative coaster painted by Angela herself!! I love free stuff and it's even better when it's from a friend. So drop by her blog, read her great posts and leave a note.

Long lost friend...

So I was about my regular business today, doing what I do, and a funny, strange, weird thing happened. I ran into an old friend of mine. At first I wasn't quite sure, you don't want to be one of those crazies who talks to everybody like you've been friends since grade school when you really don't actually know them. So I decided I'd better get a little closer just to be sure.

"Well, hey there you! How've you been?"

Silence.

"Wow, it's been a long time hey. Like eight or so years..." I sheepishly glance at the floor.

"Actually, make that more like nine years, too bad you can't count."

Ouch.

"So, have you seen anyone else we used to bounce with?"

"Ya, back there. And over here a little. We've been in hiding, remember?"

"Hiding?! Why on earth would you do that? That's crazy!"

"Well, Dawn, you inadvertently forced us into...hiding. But really we've been here all along."

"Oh. I'm so sorry."

"That's ok. Glad we're all moving in the same direction again."

"Ya, me too. Will I be seeing more of you?"

"If you're smart and quit being so lazy you will. And by the way, Heart says thanks for all the cardio lately."

Nice hey. That's all I got. My creative brain is on holidays I think. Or permanent hiatus. But I did indeed notice my waistline today for the first time in a long time. My real waistline, you know, the part that dips in (or at least is supposed to) a little just after the ribs and before the hips. I was shocked. Now at this point I know some of you will say WHO CARES! Well I do and this is my blog, right.

I've maintained the same body weight over the past few years after having my babies, but everything got all shifted around somehow in the delivery room. I'm certain the doctors were playing a practical joke and filling me with extra surgical sponges round about my belly, butt, and thighs. Not funny.

So I took action: I'm taking charge of what goes in and what I do with it in terms of my body. For the past four weeks I've been working out regularly (I've always been a runner, but 20-30 minutes on the treadmill seemed like enough and I'd eat what ever happened to find it's way into my mouth...) I'm also watching more closely what goes into that orifice I call pie-hole. (My curiosity about calories has turned into a bazaar little obsession - I figure out the calories of what I'm eating, decide to eat most things anyway, then do more mathematical calisthenics to figure out how many more minutes I need to run, how many more crunches or curls to do, leg lifts, etc. Sadistic, I know. But on the days that I'm feeling particularly lazy, I'll not have that jumbo chocolate muffin that is a whopping 690 calories...that's another 25.5 minutes of running!)

This all started when my dear sister in law announced here engagement - wedding to be THIS JULY. And I'm the maid of honor. And I have a ponch and saggy old lady arms. And I really couldn't tell where my legs ended and my butt began.(Secretly I blame her for this new madness going on.) SO.....

I now have a sore group of muscles almost everyday. I can tell you how many calories are in many foods. And I can measure out my proper portions sizes for meals with the palm of my hand (which I don't really do so much anymore, for some reason people look at you funny when you're at the buffet.) And I can count to eight three times in a row rhythmically and remember to breath while repeating sets of lifts, lunges and pulls.

Will it last? Can I keep it up? Will I meet any more long lost friends along the way? Time will tell. Maybe I'll make a new friend...Six pack! Well, lets not get our hopes up too high.
G'night.

Actually... No.

Ok, so I don't actually want to see the new Jim Carey movie YES Man any longer. And the link on the previous post doesn't work anyhow. Which is a good thing. After watching a few previews of the movie on You tube and a few clips of Jim Carey's other "works of genius" I've decided it's a good thing you didn't get thru on that link and even better I didn't waste my $$ on theater tickets. (Well, actually, M has two free adult passes to our small theater here in town, but something better's bound to come along anyway...) It also occurred to me that the only movies of Jims that I have seen are the Trueman Show and Liar Liar. Bits and pieces of Ace Ventura and The Mask as well. So with the first two there, you can see why my opinion of the actor would be somewhat misconstrued. But after listening to some very off colored comments by this man (with actions to go with), I can safely say I'm no longer a fan. Not. At. All. It's kind of like putting a swig of artificial vanilla in your mouth; smells really great until it's in there and then you feel the immediate need to quickly get it out. Yuck.

PS: sorry if you've seen the movie and liked it. Ya, sorry.

YES

I wonder how different my life would be if I were a yes man, er, woman. And yes, I would like to see Jim Carey's latest movie "YES". Looks funny and I've always had a thing for that crazy Canadian. So, if you've seen it, tell me how you'd rate it and please keep the ending to your self. Thanks. And I don't know why but there seems to be a bit of an issue posting a clip directly to here so if you'd like a sneak peak, check that link down there. Sorry.


http://ca.youtube.com/watch?v=pV9Uviv-9bk

HELP!

I need your help all you graphic design, digital scrap booking, know the Internet like the back of your hand people...
A colleague and I are trying to redesign a brochure we made for our doula business. Right now it's a plane-Jane (yawn, boring...) print out on white paper. One photo only and it really could use some help.
Since I don't know where to get all those great ideas for beautiful back grounds, swirly thingies or creative anything, could you help me?? We'd like to put it together on the computer and either email it or save it to disk to have printed at Staples or some copy place.
Please help me, I'd be forever grateful...

Hot Topic Part 3

Hey, read the first and second parts before this. It all makes way more sense when you read them in order.

I've never seen resurection, nor instantaneous healing, cast out demons in Jesus name or feed thousands with the contents of a kid's lunch bag. But why not? Is it for lack of faith? Sin? Or is it because I've been led to believe, as my forefathers before me, that that's not the way God works anymore. The "church" and it's leaders would never intentionally lead people astray. Heck, I've been in leadership positions and I'm responsible at least in part for any damage done. I'm driving at the fact that I think I've been plodding along thinking this path is the right one, but how I'm moving along on it is all wrong. I feel as though I'm slowly placing one foot in front of the other, careful of each step, cautious of what's going on around me, just like the instruction book has been interpreted for me and what I think I heard the Holy Spirit say, but I'm not so sure cuz I can't really hear all that well, not really knowing how exactly. But now I have an invitation to take off running like a bat out of, well, some cave (couldn't say it) with Him being the blast of energy and power pushing me and yet leading me. Perhaps what we've seen in the past and tacked on to our basic belief in God is about to be blasted to bits leaving us with, well, just Him. Would you be ok with that? Would I? What would that even look like? Some how I don't think we see Him as He really is.

Don't get the wrong impression, I'm not all jumping off the pews, rolling on the floor, drunk in the spirit looking for an "experience" in God. Not apposed to it, just never been there. And I know it's not just all about the miracles, signs and wonders. BUT, have we limited His awesome power by programming every minute of our gatherings, keeping it all organized and under control? Have we grieved our Lord with the billions of $$ poured into bigger and better buildings and programs instead of focusing our time and resources on the widow, the orphan and the poor? Have we been lulled to complacency by our cozy, comfortable little huddles within the huddle? Worse still, are we walking in disobedience knowing that what we are doing may be the traditions of man instead of yielding to His spirit moment by moment? I don't have the answers. I'm searching and digging like never before, crying out for some bit of revelation and wisdom. So, if nothing else, all this has me running toward my Savior. If nothing else it's forced me to get serious instead of staying lazy. And all I can say is LORD HELP ME.

Hot Topic Part 2

Ever wish you hadn't been privy to some information? Wished someone hadn't told you something or pointed out something obvious you hadn't noticed before. What I'm talking about is not like when someone leans over and whispers that your fly is open (and instantly you recall that you'd forgotten to zip up after your last visit to the lil' girls room, about an hour ago, and you've been moving about visiting with a room full of people with your pink polka-dot undies flashing the entire place.)Slightly embarrassing but non life threatening. What I'm talking about is more like when a stranger points out that a tire on your car is dangerously low. You kind of wish in a way they hadn't said anything, cuz it's just so much work to get down there and change it yourself. You might not even know how, so you'd have to ask for help. Ugghh. Option #1. Just keep on driving on it. It's just low, right? The rest of the vehicle still works. You can still get from point A to point B. Heck, you can still even carry a load of kids and the groceries in it. Or... Option #2.Get down on your hands and knees and use the tools you have to fix it. Ya, you'll probably get a little dirty. Might even break a nail. It'll take a bit of time (ok, for me a lot of time) but you know it's gotta be done. Why? Quite simply - safety. That and you'd be burning nearly twice as much fuel which here in this country is an issue. As in option one, you really could go on driving on a flat tire, but somewhere along the way the safety of the vehicle's passengers would be in jeopardy. After a while it would start to wreck the stuff under the hood. (Sorry, I'm not a mechanic, but I do know that something would get wrecked...)And there's always that fuel consumption issue.

So where are you going with all this Dawn? you're asking. Well here's the skinny: Last post, I blogged, rather, ranted about some of the seeming dysfunctions of our modern day church here in North America. Sorry if I'd offended. It wasn't intentional. Recently a friend passed along a book called "Mega Shift" by James Rutz that has stirred my spiritual pot. A Lot. However, prior to that, friends of ours had challenged us several years ago to really take a good look at why we do what we do as believers and followers of Christ. Basically, the input of both sources, along with the Spirit's prompting I believe, have forced Michael and I to question a few things: why we (and the church, when I speak of the church I mean the corporate gathering that happens on Sunday mornings) cling so tightly to traditions and perhaps even theology that may be flawed by our own humanness? Are we living out our faith the way God wants to thru us or have we again put Him in a program filled box where we punch in our access code and wait for entry expecting to receive unlimited blessing with a lifetime warranty. Worse still, are we teaching our kids the pat answers we were told as kids instead of really searching the scriptures with them and praying them thru it. They ask a lot of crazy questions and pat answers are easier...like leaving the tire a little flat.

Which brings me to my final point. I'm not trying to be a heretic here, and I am well aware of these "new movements" and faith fads. But why is it that so many believers I have spoken with or read about or blogged along side of, why are so many desperately searching for answers on this very same issue. The issue of WHY we do what we do. Who was it that decided that the order, position of office, the content of "church" would be the way it is? (I know it's changed over the centuries and there are lot of groups doing fantastic work.) But as a whole, it seems like we've sort of left the Holy Spirit out of it, and in doing so have also been trained to live our lives that way. Unintentionally.