Tis' the season and I'm taking a jolly little break.
Merry Christmas everyone.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Don't Worry -
Be Happy!
Seriously!
Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon.
Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:5-7
Seriously!
Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Calamondin, a very sour fruit
photo by "highlimitzzCalamondin is something I never heard of until we moved here. Yesterday one of our sweet church ladies brought us a calamondin cake, and it was still warm! Yum. I think you could modify the Key Lime Cake recipe, see here, and make a cake similar to what our friend brought us.
Today was our Pre-school's performance at the Christmas Tree lighting ceremony at our hospital. The kids were adorable. Right after our school sung our Christmas songs, Calvin's elementary school performed and he was in the front row! He was so cute. He was holding jingle bell attached to a pipe cleaner, which was an extra from my students. While he did the hand motions to one of the songs with his class, he put the jingle bell in his mouth so his hands were free to move!
By the way, I think it's interesting to note that pipe cleaners are not called pipe cleaners anymore. I don't know if it's due to political connectedness, or that pipe smoking (of tobacco-lol!) is so rare these days. Their original purpose is lost and their craft purpose is all that remains. They are now called chenille wires or chenille stems.
Regular Reader lil' Art Giveaway - Closed!
I haven't seen much traffic lately, but I know there are at least 2 of you out there! If you email me your mailing address I'd like to send you a small token of my appreciation. It will be small. Reach me at *edited* And on the info/subject line please put "blog give-away," OK?
(c)M.d.V.2009
The give-away is closed now (12/12). Thanks to all who participated!
The give-away is closed now (12/12). Thanks to all who participated!
Sympathy for the Devils
I was going to chide my grown niece on facebook for posting about how she couldn't wait to watch the latest incarnation of Melrose Place. Then I paused for two reasons. First, because God seemed to be reminding my heart that I watch shows a lot "worse" than Melrose Place. Secondly, she deleted a post on her wall, in which I was teasing her "and kids today and their horrible taste in music" on facebook. Oh, she was going to a Brittney Spears concert for heaven's sake! (I even posted my old man smiley
to emphasize the fact that I was teasing and acknowledging the generation gap, and that I was, perhaps, a fuddy-dud. I think, she didn't get it. I love her anyway!) OK, back to TV shows that showcase naughty behaviour. Melrose Place and all the soap operas were never part of my "must see" entertainment universe. I recall watching Dallas with my parents when I was a kid and I remember the hype around all that. As a young adult I watched the same soaps or "stories" my mother and grandmother watched, and then leaned into my own tastes. I loved Star Trek, in all it's incarnations. I loved ER and Homicide: Life on the Street. Those were the shows I recall anticipating each week. I suppose besides the sci-fi stuff, I like things that are a little more gritty and realistic rather than the glamorous world most soaps are set in.
If you've schelleped around this blog, or know me, then you probably know LOST is my favorite TV show. And it isn't a "bad" show, as far immoral and illegal activity are an integral part of the show and characters, like The Sopranos, The Shield, and other shows of that edgy nature. Though there are some baddies in Lost's cast of characters. It's more of a sci-fi drama. Melrose is a soap opera, probably with adultery, fornication, ruthless power plays, and back-stabbing antics galore. But it probably pales in comparison to my other favorite entertainment du jour: Sons of Anarchy. It is a TV show about a really bad biker gang. They break all the commandments. And then some. It's definitely a rated "R" show, not for the kids and certainly not for everyone. My favorite character is the biker mama, Gemma. At first she seemed like a ruthless Lady Macbeth, but this season has seen layers and layers peeled away from her, and even some tenderheartedness toward God and forgiveness themes in her. It's a very interesting show.
So I have been mulling over the notion for quite a while now: Why do I like shows like that? Goodfellas is one of my favorite movies, and that's about gangsters, and don't get me started on The Godfather (epic & classic). Is it because I get to safely see a lifestyle that is so utterly foreign to my own? Is it because the themes of good and evil are biblical, fascinating, and it's simply a modern take on drama more ancient than Shakespeare, who is obviously an influence? Maybe it's escapist amusement. Maybe it's all of that. If you've read the bible, particularly the Old Testament, it is filled with many depictions of un-holy behaviour of all sordid sorts. So then, bonna-fide soap operas, or the "stories," as my Mom and grandmother called them, just aren't my cup of tea. But the bad behaviour of bikers and gangsters, and all the drama that unfolds around that, well put the kids to bed and pass the popcorn.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Love Hurts - God Heals part 2
Have you ever poured out your heart and soul into a friendship with someone and they betrayed you? Or maybe they just weren't there for you when you really needed it? It makes you feel so hurt and sad. Maybe angry too. You question why you wasted so much time and energy on someone that proved to be so unworthy. Sometimes this makes you hesitant about befriending other people in the future. At least it's been that way for me. It seems like the past few years have seen a few of these situations in my family and it hurts like heck. I keep hoping there will be some sort of reconciliation and healing change. But it just hasn't happened (yet?). Perhaps it never will. So, I mourn the passing of friendships.
I have been thinking lately about these types of things. And I think I have concluded this: I don't think love is ever wasted, even if it's not appreciated or reciprocated. I think when we stand before the Lord at judgment, we'll have been relieved to say that we loved lavishly even if our hearts are broken to shreds. After all, that's what He did. And then we should just keep on loving and doing our best to be an open-hearted person.
The thing is, sometimes with some people, you have to love them from afar. We can be like the father in the story of the Prodigal Son. He was already looking down the road when his estranged son was coming home. We can determine from that, he had been looking for, hoping and anticipating his son's return. I believe we should have a heart that is open, welcoming and ready for reconciliation. The other person has to be on that same road as well. It has to be mutual. Just as the father was looking for the son, the son was ready to leave his "wild living" and return home. The son couldn't have it both ways at his home. He had to leave the destructive behaviour behind to enjoy the full benefits of a close relationship. Until that time, the father had his eyes on the horizon and a heart that seemed to be free of anger, accusations, and all the other things he probably felt over his child living wild and wasting his inheritance. He was ready when his child was ready, not with a lecture, but with open arms.
That's the lesson for me. Don't get hung up on bitter feelings over everything that has passed. Let it go and be healed and free from it. Be ready for restoration of the relationship, if and when it comes. In the mean time L-O-V-E from afar, as opposed to stewing or wallowing!
Image from Barry's Clip Art.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Thanksgiving, Reduced
Some years are different, some years are transitional. I'm not sure what this year will be when I view it retrospectively, but I'm guessing it will be more like a year of evolution for me and my family. And that can be a very good thing, even though it feels a bit strange right now.
This is the first year that Big Daddy and I will not be with either of our parents, and some blending of one or both of our extended families. That just seems odd. We were supposed to be cooking and serving about 4 turkeys our church donated to our local homeless mission. The good news is that they had more than enough people volunteer to serve! So, they don't need us to serve, only cook.
Not being needed to help serve to a large group for a large part of the day sort of unsettled our plans. We thought we'd be occupied and busy one way. We are used to big Thanksgiving Dinners, I don't think we have ever had a small one, but this year that is what we will do at home with our children. It actually seems very nice and relaxed so far.
Whomever we are with and wherever we are we have much to be thankful for. I am chiefly thankful for the peace and freedom I found in Christ, that I found no where else (and heaven knows I looked enough places for it!). I have to mention that because it is the foundation from where all other blessings flow. I am grateful to God for the myriad of other blessings, chief among them my beloved family. I will be missing the family members I won't get to see.
photo by Koen Muurling
Happy Thanksgiving to everyone who stops by here! Not sure if anyone still does, but sending good wishes if you do happen, perchance, by my obscure corner of the blog-o-sphere. :)
This is the first year that Big Daddy and I will not be with either of our parents, and some blending of one or both of our extended families. That just seems odd. We were supposed to be cooking and serving about 4 turkeys our church donated to our local homeless mission. The good news is that they had more than enough people volunteer to serve! So, they don't need us to serve, only cook.
Not being needed to help serve to a large group for a large part of the day sort of unsettled our plans. We thought we'd be occupied and busy one way. We are used to big Thanksgiving Dinners, I don't think we have ever had a small one, but this year that is what we will do at home with our children. It actually seems very nice and relaxed so far.
Whomever we are with and wherever we are we have much to be thankful for. I am chiefly thankful for the peace and freedom I found in Christ, that I found no where else (and heaven knows I looked enough places for it!). I have to mention that because it is the foundation from where all other blessings flow. I am grateful to God for the myriad of other blessings, chief among them my beloved family. I will be missing the family members I won't get to see.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
A "Secret" Site
I sometimes enjoy the Post Secret Site. Be forewarned that a few of the secrets and the corresponding postcard art can be disturbing and have adult themes. However, more often than not, they can be variously artistic, thoughtful, funny and real. The picture below is from that site.
from PostSecret
Do you have a secret you wish you could unburden yourself of? I have a few. I have poured some of them out before the Lord in prayer and that has helped more than sending them anonymously to an artistic stranger. Still, the idea behind PostSecret is compelling and many of the postcards are exquisite little works of art.
from PostSecret
Do you have a secret you wish you could unburden yourself of? I have a few. I have poured some of them out before the Lord in prayer and that has helped more than sending them anonymously to an artistic stranger. Still, the idea behind PostSecret is compelling and many of the postcards are exquisite little works of art.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Pet Peeve - Spelling Names Correctly
Why is it that my cyber-pals can spell my name right, but relatives whom I've known for AGES cannot? One particular relative, consistently misspells some of our names. However, my online friends seem to be able to remember a correct spelling. I would think not having met someone in person would make it more difficult to keep details straight. Some of the people who have broken bread with us countless times, and were with us through the births and baby dedications cannot seem to remember a few letters. There are times when the name is posted over social networking sites, and they can't even get it right when it's written elsewhere on the same computer screen "page." It's a pet peeve.
If someone is only casually acquainted with us, I can understand, but when someone has known you for decades and your children since before birth, well, I think it's rude to misspell. Am I being too hard? Am I being petty? Does this bother anyone else? It's a pet peeve. Winnie the Pooh would say, "A little bothering thing." Like a yapping chihuahua.
photo byby wcmcwi
If someone is only casually acquainted with us, I can understand, but when someone has known you for decades and your children since before birth, well, I think it's rude to misspell. Am I being too hard? Am I being petty? Does this bother anyone else? It's a pet peeve. Winnie the Pooh would say, "A little bothering thing." Like a yapping chihuahua.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Monday, November 16, 2009
Yummy Food: Rice Pudding
I have been really, really enjoying rice pudding by Kozy Shack lately. Besides being a yummy comfort food, and giving me a little calcium, it has another favorable quality. No one else in my house likes it. That means it's always there waiting for me when I crave it, rather than being consumed by the kiddos. It really harsh-es my mellow when I am looking forward to a little treat and I find that someone else ate it all up! We have that problem in our house. That is part of the reason why I switched from milk to dark chocolate. My family doesn't like it as much as I do, add that to the great antioxidants and you have my reason for switching. Even so, if the kids find my stash of dark chocolate they are apt to eat it, or at least one of them is! They have not done this with the rice pudding. Therefore, my rice pudding kick is all the more enjoyable. Don't judge me until you have a home full of candy craving addicts. I have really worked hard to surrender my will, and by God's grace and help, I am able to moderate and eat a little of a square or two of chocolate from a larger bar at a time. It's usually only one week a month that I find myself craving it, if you catch my drift. It is a complete BUMMER when someone has found it and devoured it!
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Art
(c)M.d.V.2009
I was thinking of artist Peter Max when I did this one. What can I say? It makes me feel happy.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Hell Is Hot And Time Is Short
I have heard my Father-in-Law, a wonderful pastor and all around good Christian man, say it this way, "There is a heaven to gain and a hell to shun." I was reminded of these sentiments while reading a good post over at MMI (Monday Morning Insight). It was a good reminder about keeping ministry-related things in proper perspective. Too many times we get focused on things that don't really matter when measured in regards to eternity. Simply following Jesus and pointing others in His direction by our deeds and words is what I try to do. I try not to let the less important things like church decor and worship music style become a distraction. Though I certainly think I would love to have music like this, this, or this at the local church. It's surprising how many church people squabble over things such as worship music style and carpet color. Any pastor can tell you that some people are fickle and will leave a church if they don't like the music, or the new pew upholstery. It's surprising how many of us (myself included) let these kind of small things cause rifts or simply personal distraction within the body of Christ. I made it click-able to explain because it's a churchy term and some folks who aren't familiar with church-speak might stop by. Anyway, the church is supposed to be a good force on this earth and sadly sometimes we can't get it together enough because we stay focused on stuff that won't last or make a difference in the long run.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
You like the smell of what???
"Diapers," said celebrity actress Sarah Jessica Parker, "I even like when they’re wet and you smell them all warm liked a baked good." Ummm. OK. That's what it said in my Miami Herald this morning. I could type so many things, but I won't. Just let it sink in. She likes the smell of diapers. She compares them to warm baked goods. For me baked goods conjures up images and scent memories of hot from the oven cookies, cakes, muffins. Simply thinking about them in the same sentence as freshly soiled warm diapers makes me gag.
photo byBrianfit
I work at a preschool. I have had three babies, and watched and cared for several babies for friends and family, some for a stretch of time. I have probably changed a thousand diapers. I love the mothering profession and its various aspects. But never ever have I relished the smell of a pee-soaked or muddy diaper.
I don't think I would appreciate Ms. Parker's fragrance line. I don't think we have the same errr, taste.
Chalk this up as another perplexing celebrity speak, or things that make you go hmmm. Something akin to Kanye being a proud non-reader while touting his newly released book.
So with all the important things going on in the world, that's what caught my eye today. Sick, I know.
I work at a preschool. I have had three babies, and watched and cared for several babies for friends and family, some for a stretch of time. I have probably changed a thousand diapers. I love the mothering profession and its various aspects. But never ever have I relished the smell of a pee-soaked or muddy diaper.
I don't think I would appreciate Ms. Parker's fragrance line. I don't think we have the same errr, taste.
Chalk this up as another perplexing celebrity speak, or things that make you go hmmm. Something akin to Kanye being a proud non-reader while touting his newly released book.
So with all the important things going on in the world, that's what caught my eye today. Sick, I know.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
100th Post
So I want to write something witty and eloquent, for this my 100th post but find it all escapes me. I am just me, and not witty and only rarely eloquent. So this is it.
My 100th post.
Yippee!
Since I began this blog, and began my Artist's Way journal I have felt a relief and release. I have to give credit to God, because this has been a spiritual journey, and praying and reading His Word has been a huge part of my creative breakthrough. And I still have a long way to go.
Even though I haven't been doing my Artist's Way religiously, I have been taking some of the principals I learned from the book and they have helped. What I have been doing "religiously" is the yearly bible reading plan. I have been making time for myself to sketch and pray and give all the old, painful hurts and emotions over to God and with His grace and help, not continuing to nurse or wallow in them.
And now for something completely different....
He is my bob.
I say this (He is my bob) to myself about 5 times a day now. And when I do, I see a picture of a stick figure man with a smile on his face, in a field of flowers, with a sunny blue sky and birds flying over his head. "He is my bob" is written underneath the picture. It is a picture my 6-year-old Calvin drew, and it is of Big Daddy. It makes me happy in a way that I will try to describe. It took me two days, of looking at it on the fridge where Calvin proudly posted it, to realize that what Calvin meant is "He is my dad." I know that Kindergarten aged kids reverse letters and numbers often, and it shouldn't have taken me that long to figure it out. When you look closely at the "o" in Calvin's "bob" it's an "a" also written backwards. Thinking of this picture makes me happy because it perfectly illustrates a child's sweet, innocent love and faith in his dad. The little "mistake" isn't so much a mistake as a translation problem when viewed through the reality of Calvin's age, ability and understanding. Calvin has complete trust, love and admiration for his dad. Not even reversing the letters can change that. There is a universal truth, and it comes shinning through if you just pause to look at that simple, colorful and beautiful picture and it's words for a few minutes. I missed it for a couple of days, but I finally got it, and I thank my Heavenly Dad for that. So when I say "he is my bob" to myself, and it makes me grin. It's an inside joke and a calming meditation I do with myself to remind me of how good it is to be a child who has a Daddy that loves them, and I mean that on several levels. I am grateful for the father of my children. I am grateful for the father I had. And I am most grateful to my Heavenly Father.
Some of the things children say and do give me much amusement and joy. Sometimes I think I have the best job in the world. Today one of my 4-year-old students said, "Ms. e.b., we're going to my Mom's ammy!" I said, "Do you mean, Miami?" "No," she said, "It's My Mom's Ammy!" This same student informed me that I am no longer a princess when I wear sneakers to work instead of my usual sandals.
My 100th post.
Yippee!
Since I began this blog, and began my Artist's Way journal I have felt a relief and release. I have to give credit to God, because this has been a spiritual journey, and praying and reading His Word has been a huge part of my creative breakthrough. And I still have a long way to go.
Even though I haven't been doing my Artist's Way religiously, I have been taking some of the principals I learned from the book and they have helped. What I have been doing "religiously" is the yearly bible reading plan. I have been making time for myself to sketch and pray and give all the old, painful hurts and emotions over to God and with His grace and help, not continuing to nurse or wallow in them.
And now for something completely different....
He is my bob.
I say this (He is my bob) to myself about 5 times a day now. And when I do, I see a picture of a stick figure man with a smile on his face, in a field of flowers, with a sunny blue sky and birds flying over his head. "He is my bob" is written underneath the picture. It is a picture my 6-year-old Calvin drew, and it is of Big Daddy. It makes me happy in a way that I will try to describe. It took me two days, of looking at it on the fridge where Calvin proudly posted it, to realize that what Calvin meant is "He is my dad." I know that Kindergarten aged kids reverse letters and numbers often, and it shouldn't have taken me that long to figure it out. When you look closely at the "o" in Calvin's "bob" it's an "a" also written backwards. Thinking of this picture makes me happy because it perfectly illustrates a child's sweet, innocent love and faith in his dad. The little "mistake" isn't so much a mistake as a translation problem when viewed through the reality of Calvin's age, ability and understanding. Calvin has complete trust, love and admiration for his dad. Not even reversing the letters can change that. There is a universal truth, and it comes shinning through if you just pause to look at that simple, colorful and beautiful picture and it's words for a few minutes. I missed it for a couple of days, but I finally got it, and I thank my Heavenly Dad for that. So when I say "he is my bob" to myself, and it makes me grin. It's an inside joke and a calming meditation I do with myself to remind me of how good it is to be a child who has a Daddy that loves them, and I mean that on several levels. I am grateful for the father of my children. I am grateful for the father I had. And I am most grateful to my Heavenly Father.
Some of the things children say and do give me much amusement and joy. Sometimes I think I have the best job in the world. Today one of my 4-year-old students said, "Ms. e.b., we're going to my Mom's ammy!" I said, "Do you mean, Miami?" "No," she said, "It's My Mom's Ammy!" This same student informed me that I am no longer a princess when I wear sneakers to work instead of my usual sandals.
Saturday, November 7, 2009
LOST
I love it. Currently my favorite show. I was blown away by last season's episodes, especially the last three, and realizing back then I wasn't going to have anymore Lost until 2010 had me jonesing! I so wanted to do the Lost re-watch this summer that I read about last spring on Nikki Stafford's interesting blog about her favorite TV shows.
My re-watch plan was foiled by a few factors. My local video rental store has only seasons 2, 3, 4 and possibly 5 (can't remember). In Central Florida, our previous home, that wouldn't have been a big deal, because there would have been about 10 other rental places and libraries I could have gone to. Now that we live on an island and in a small town, there aren't many other options.
Big Daddy missed my various hints at wanting season 1 on DVD as a gift, for any gift-giving occasion the spring and summer held. Since our finances ultra-tight, I couldn't allow myself to just get it without having a reason. He did surprise me with it for my birthday in October! By then I was so busy and distracted by everything else (hey-I'm a mom of 3 and a new pre-school teacher!), I had forgotten, and it was really a nice surprise! I still haven't began a re-watch yet, and I'm not sure if by now I/we could squeeze in watching all the previous seasons episodes before the new and final season begins in "early 2010."
Anybody else out there want to do a a re-watch with me, beginning sometime soon?
Check out Jorge Garcia's blog here. He plays the character Hurley- he's one of our favorites on Lost and he's got a fine blog over there.
My re-watch plan was foiled by a few factors. My local video rental store has only seasons 2, 3, 4 and possibly 5 (can't remember). In Central Florida, our previous home, that wouldn't have been a big deal, because there would have been about 10 other rental places and libraries I could have gone to. Now that we live on an island and in a small town, there aren't many other options.
Big Daddy missed my various hints at wanting season 1 on DVD as a gift, for any gift-giving occasion the spring and summer held. Since our finances ultra-tight, I couldn't allow myself to just get it without having a reason. He did surprise me with it for my birthday in October! By then I was so busy and distracted by everything else (hey-I'm a mom of 3 and a new pre-school teacher!), I had forgotten, and it was really a nice surprise! I still haven't began a re-watch yet, and I'm not sure if by now I/we could squeeze in watching all the previous seasons episodes before the new and final season begins in "early 2010."
Anybody else out there want to do a a re-watch with me, beginning sometime soon?
Check out Jorge Garcia's blog here. He plays the character Hurley- he's one of our favorites on Lost and he's got a fine blog over there.
Friday, November 6, 2009
More funny stuff
There is an online site for artisans and craft people to sell their handmade wares and it is called Etsy. There are a lot of cool, wonderfully weird, and beautiful things to be found there. However, like so many good things in this world, there is a dark, down side to etsy, as well. Apparently someone has discovered all the bad things in etsy-world and placed them on a nifty, snarky website all their own, hilariously titled regretesy. You know my fondness for such sites, I mean how many times have I mentioned cakewrecks? Not to mention fail, awkward family photos, what not to crochet... I find them all hilarious. So I couldn't help but take a gander around regretsy. And then I saw this, then I READ the description, which is the best part. I did LOL. They have got to be kidding!
Thursday, November 5, 2009
The h1n1 hoopla
Our public school is trying to vaccinate all of the students with the new h1n1 shot, but we are opting out. I don't believe the vaccine has been out long enough to be durably and reliably tested. I have concerns that there is mercury in some of the vaccines, and that there is controversy over the nasal vaccine they offer to children. All my children are in the recommended age bracket, so I have not come to this conclusion lightly. I work in a pre-school germ factory and we have had one confirmed case so far, and likely some unconfirmed cases. It's not an easy decision. But right now, it seems like the best decision for our family with consideration to our circumstances and all I have looked into for now.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
More Hodgepodge - Humor
These made me smile.
Funny Christmas:
One of my all-time favorite comedy sketches. This never ceases to literally make me laugh out loud, still after all these years.
I found another funny site for Christian parody, The Sacred Sandwich, see also Lark News and The Holy Observer. Fun, fun, funny.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Halloween
We have never celebrated Halloween with our children. Big Daddy and I came to faith in Christ the year our oldest was born, and it was a spiritual awakening that totally rocked our world, so to speak. We were changed. We stopped moving in one direction and began heading in another: Following Christ. Part of that was forsaking and abandoning all of the things we participated in or associated with our old, sinful lives. Halloween reminded us both of satanism, Paganism and assorted revelry of the inebriated kind. So, we decided it was not in our family's best interest as Christ-followers to make much ado about it. This verse really spoke volumes to us in regards to us celebrating Halloween.
We took some flack for it. We've been made to feel like we were weird and cult-ish for not participating, or that we were depriving our children of a fun time. We've managed, and our children are fine. Variously we've participated in Harvest parties or let our children dress up as their favorite storybook character at school. But we just never got into the spooky decorations and trick-or-treating and bonna-fide Halloween parties. I just felt a deep level of spiritual discomfort over the Pagan roots, occult and horror imagery, and the sexy, party atmosphere that modern Halloween celebrations conjure up.
So I'm striking a balance between teaching our younger children that while Halloween celebrations aren't for us (and why), many other people, some Christians and good folks, don't share our same convictions, and that doesn't make them bad. We all have to live by what the Holy Spirit leads and convicts each of us to do. St. Paul said "All things are lawful for me, but not all things are expedient." I think his words there, and regarding what one eats (see here) could readily apply to this subject.
A few other bloggers discussed this same subject nicely here and here.
We took some flack for it. We've been made to feel like we were weird and cult-ish for not participating, or that we were depriving our children of a fun time. We've managed, and our children are fine. Variously we've participated in Harvest parties or let our children dress up as their favorite storybook character at school. But we just never got into the spooky decorations and trick-or-treating and bonna-fide Halloween parties. I just felt a deep level of spiritual discomfort over the Pagan roots, occult and horror imagery, and the sexy, party atmosphere that modern Halloween celebrations conjure up.
So I'm striking a balance between teaching our younger children that while Halloween celebrations aren't for us (and why), many other people, some Christians and good folks, don't share our same convictions, and that doesn't make them bad. We all have to live by what the Holy Spirit leads and convicts each of us to do. St. Paul said "All things are lawful for me, but not all things are expedient." I think his words there, and regarding what one eats (see here) could readily apply to this subject.
A few other bloggers discussed this same subject nicely here and here.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Monday, October 26, 2009
Getting One's Groove Back
(c)M.d.V.2009
So, I began this blog as a way to journal about life and such,
as a way to rekindle my creativity,
and work through what I think is blocking me.
So, I'm pleased to report that I have been steadily
drawing and sketching a bit every week
and it feels very good.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
My Mom's Unusual Day
My Mom is 75 years old and enjoying a healthy and active retirement. Her faith has become stronger and stronger over the past decade, and I find her to often be a quiet and shining example of God's love.
Several years ago, she sought out the widows group at her church, and I'm fairly sure it was through there that she became active in her local senior center. She and some of the women from her widows group take fitness classes at the center, and became involved with other community things through both groups.
One of the people they became acquainted with at the senior center is another elderly widow, who is about 10 years older than my Mom, named Melanie*. Mom takes her grocery shopping and sometimes cooks for her. I believe Melanie has some family nearby, but they travel for business quite often. Melanie has been wanting to treat my Mom to lunch, as a thank you for all the little things she's done, but my Mom kept postponing it due to being busy with other things.
This Saturday my Mom agreed to lunch before their grocery shopping trip. They had a nice lunch then went to the grocery store. My Mom ran some errands around the shopping center while Melanie shopped, then met up with her as she was checking out. Melanie seemed slightly tired while they were walking back to her car, so my Mom told her to go and sit down while she put the groceries in the trunk.
In that very short space of time while my Mom put the groceries in the trunk, Melanie passed away while quietly and peacefully seated in my Mom's car. My Mom was shocked, to say the least. When she called me later in the day to tell me all of this, she had settled into a calm sort of acceptance. We discussed how it was really quite a blessing in many ways. I encouraged her that it was actually an honor that the Lord would trust her to be with one of His children during their final hours. Of all the people it could have been, it was her. They had a calm and uneventful day, but that is a blessing in its own way. There are so many ways one could count and consider this to be a blessing, so I'm thinking about those types of things and reminding myself that anyone of us could leave this world at any time.
What kind of memories and impressions would we like to leave when we go? Are we ready to stand before the Lord? Even though we have no control over it, what kind of final day would we like to have? Who would we most like to be with?
Several years ago, she sought out the widows group at her church, and I'm fairly sure it was through there that she became active in her local senior center. She and some of the women from her widows group take fitness classes at the center, and became involved with other community things through both groups.
One of the people they became acquainted with at the senior center is another elderly widow, who is about 10 years older than my Mom, named Melanie*. Mom takes her grocery shopping and sometimes cooks for her. I believe Melanie has some family nearby, but they travel for business quite often. Melanie has been wanting to treat my Mom to lunch, as a thank you for all the little things she's done, but my Mom kept postponing it due to being busy with other things.
This Saturday my Mom agreed to lunch before their grocery shopping trip. They had a nice lunch then went to the grocery store. My Mom ran some errands around the shopping center while Melanie shopped, then met up with her as she was checking out. Melanie seemed slightly tired while they were walking back to her car, so my Mom told her to go and sit down while she put the groceries in the trunk.
In that very short space of time while my Mom put the groceries in the trunk, Melanie passed away while quietly and peacefully seated in my Mom's car. My Mom was shocked, to say the least. When she called me later in the day to tell me all of this, she had settled into a calm sort of acceptance. We discussed how it was really quite a blessing in many ways. I encouraged her that it was actually an honor that the Lord would trust her to be with one of His children during their final hours. Of all the people it could have been, it was her. They had a calm and uneventful day, but that is a blessing in its own way. There are so many ways one could count and consider this to be a blessing, so I'm thinking about those types of things and reminding myself that anyone of us could leave this world at any time.
What kind of memories and impressions would we like to leave when we go? Are we ready to stand before the Lord? Even though we have no control over it, what kind of final day would we like to have? Who would we most like to be with?
Letting The Fantasy Die & Embracing Reality
I have been slowly letting the fantasy I have about my addicted loved one die. What good is it to harbor a fantasy that is not rooted in reality? There is a difference in hope and fantasy, and I think for a long time maybe I have blurred the lines between the two and it hasn't been helpful.
For a long time, in the back of my mind I had this dream that my ALO would recover things would get back to normal (whatever that is) and we'd be some sort of regular family again. Maybe we'd even open a restaurant together. We'd have happy Thanksgivings and Merry Christmases around a table that would make Norman Rockwell proud. My ALO would have their zest for life restored and become a productive and upstanding member of society and our family. We'd all be reasonably happy together.
The truth is, I needed a HUGE reality check. Things could never get back to normal because they were never "normal" to begin with. The fantasy I held was my very own fantasy, no one else shared it with me. I never bothered to really consider if this fantasy was the same dream anyone else shared. Rather it was just some thing that I harbored in my own mind, assuming that there was some level of familial sympatico. Never mind that my ALO was too entrenched in their own life and pursuits to share or discuss such a dream. I think I thought something like one day my ALO would wake up after being healed and clean and sober of their addictions and think, "Aha! Back I go to the bosom of my faithful family and we shall all build an idyllic life together!" I never really took into full consideration that my ALO has their own dreams and plans, and family life was not a priority for them. And that even now, in the throes of their addictions, they are a bonna-fide adult who has a right to live their own life. You can't make someone feel a love and attachment that simply isn't there for them. Everyone has different priorities and goals in life, it doesn't necessarily make them right or wrong. They simply have different preferences.
I was confusing my hope that they will one day recover with my own fantasy of what I thought their recovery should look like. Instead, now I am learning that my hope is that they will recover and find their own version of a happy, sane and sober life, and that life may or may not include me. And that's OK. I pray for and wish them well in it.
Anyway, just some thoughts.
For a long time, in the back of my mind I had this dream that my ALO would recover things would get back to normal (whatever that is) and we'd be some sort of regular family again. Maybe we'd even open a restaurant together. We'd have happy Thanksgivings and Merry Christmases around a table that would make Norman Rockwell proud. My ALO would have their zest for life restored and become a productive and upstanding member of society and our family. We'd all be reasonably happy together.
The truth is, I needed a HUGE reality check. Things could never get back to normal because they were never "normal" to begin with. The fantasy I held was my very own fantasy, no one else shared it with me. I never bothered to really consider if this fantasy was the same dream anyone else shared. Rather it was just some thing that I harbored in my own mind, assuming that there was some level of familial sympatico. Never mind that my ALO was too entrenched in their own life and pursuits to share or discuss such a dream. I think I thought something like one day my ALO would wake up after being healed and clean and sober of their addictions and think, "Aha! Back I go to the bosom of my faithful family and we shall all build an idyllic life together!" I never really took into full consideration that my ALO has their own dreams and plans, and family life was not a priority for them. And that even now, in the throes of their addictions, they are a bonna-fide adult who has a right to live their own life. You can't make someone feel a love and attachment that simply isn't there for them. Everyone has different priorities and goals in life, it doesn't necessarily make them right or wrong. They simply have different preferences.
I was confusing my hope that they will one day recover with my own fantasy of what I thought their recovery should look like. Instead, now I am learning that my hope is that they will recover and find their own version of a happy, sane and sober life, and that life may or may not include me. And that's OK. I pray for and wish them well in it.
Anyway, just some thoughts.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
A Prayer for Today
God grant me the serenity
To accept the things I cannot change;
Courage to change the things I can;
And wisdom to know the difference.
Living one day at a time;
Enjoying one moment at a time;
Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace;
Taking, as He did, this sinful world
As it is, not as I would have it;
Trusting that He will make all things right
If I surrender to His Will;
So that I may be reasonably happy in this life
And supremely happy with Him
Forever and ever in the next.
Through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.
Image from Barry's Clip Art.
To accept the things I cannot change;
Courage to change the things I can;
And wisdom to know the difference.
Living one day at a time;
Enjoying one moment at a time;
Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace;
Taking, as He did, this sinful world
As it is, not as I would have it;
Trusting that He will make all things right
If I surrender to His Will;
So that I may be reasonably happy in this life
And supremely happy with Him
Forever and ever in the next.
Through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.
Image from Barry's Clip Art.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Manure & A Bit of Wisdom
If you follow here, you might recall I'm reading Crazy Love by Francis Chan. It has really challenged and convicted me and I love it.
One of the things that Chan says is that Christians are like manure. When they are all piled up together, and basically that's all they do, they STINK. When they go out and about and are spread all over, they do good and make things grow.
One of the things that Chan says is that Christians are like manure. When they are all piled up together, and basically that's all they do, they STINK. When they go out and about and are spread all over, they do good and make things grow.
Friday, October 16, 2009
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Kanye-shomon-yea
WHAT is THIS???
I found the above on the deliciously funny Cake Wrecks blog, where you and find it here, and make the joke with your own website if you like.
I know this joke is like so two weeks ago, but I still find it funny.
I found the above on the deliciously funny Cake Wrecks blog, where you and find it here, and make the joke with your own website if you like.
I know this joke is like so two weeks ago, but I still find it funny.
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Thoughts on Lies, Addiction & Family Relationships
For some reason my addicted loved one (ALO) has focused their anger and ire on me during their most recent cycle of sobriety, fresh start/new life, relapse, hospitalization, and (hopefully)recovery. I have been called a devil, hypocritical Christian and the one that killed their (ALO's) relationship and/or opportunities. This is because I told the truth when asked questions regarding my addicted loved one's (ALO) life while they were hospitalized in a medically induced coma from illness that stems from their addiction.
For the first time I tried to refrain from apologizing for my ALO, because I struggle with feeling guilty when I become aware of the hurt they cause others in the course of their life of addiction. I remind myself that the people that chose to date, live with, employ, befriend, and otherwise help my ALO are adults capable of their own decisions about who they will let into their life and trust, help and love. It's not my job to go around apologizing for or fixing the things that people other than myself do to each other. I don't know why I feel like I should, but I used to have a real problem with that, and I am working very hard to not feel, think and react that way anymore.
I had not heard from my ALO in about 5 months when I was contacted by their live-in-companion who informed me ALO was hospitalized in critical condition. My ALO's companion then asked me some very basic questions about them, which I answered truthfully to the best of my knowledge. I tried, and I think mostly succeeded in keeping emotions, drama and opinions out of it. I tried not to add anything other than what I was asked. That is difficult when faced with some whoppers of lies, which when added to the worry and concern over the health of my loved one, it's difficult to stay calm and clear-headed. The shock of some of the content of the fabrications took me aback, but I made a good effort that is miles and miles better than my reactions to these kinds of similar scenarios I had been placed in in the past. I do this by reminding myself of the content of the italicized sentence in the previous paragraph.
I remind myself that my loved one has an illness and this is part of it. I didn't cause it, I can't control it, I can't cure it. Only my loved one can, by the help and grace of God, change their life and choices.
As I mused about all of this this week, and prayed so much for my ALO I feel like God gave a little snippet of understanding. My ALO has hurt and alienated so many people in their life, but I know for sure that my Mom, Big Daddy and myself will never stop loving them. Our love is unconditional, but it's difficult sometimes. We have never been able to stop loving and caring. We have never been able or even willing to cut ties altogether. I believe that the Lord showed me that it was Him who placed ALO in a family of people that would not give up or abandon ALO.
Everybody has a cross of some kind to bear. This life is filled with hardships, some that we make ourselves, others we have thrust upon us, as Simon of Cyrene was told to carry Jesus' cross. Jesus loves us when we are unlovable and how much should we love those among us that are also a challenge.
So, it hurts me when my ALO calls me names for telling the truth regarding the lies they tell. It hurts to think about all the ways they have hurt themselves and others. Today the Lord reminded me of this:
As I have been reading and being reminded in Crazy Love, it's easy to love people who treat you well and love you back. Jesus Himself taught us that here. If I get caught up in nursing hurts and anger I am less likely to pray for the people who need prayers the most and that includes myself and my own attitudes. I am more likely to be overcome with hurt, despair and my own bad feelings rather than overcoming evil with good.
In the past my mode of operation was to spend excess amounts of time wallowing, worrying and stewing over these types of hurts. Now I realize how unproductive that is. These situations are best handled when bathed in prayer, and by getting on with doing all the good things in life that Christ has called us to do. When I went to Al-Anon there was a saying that the members would say to each other in the meeting when someone was doing too much obsessing over the erratic and hurtful behaviour of their addicted loved one. They would say, "Yes that's bad that s/he is doing X-behaviour, but what are you doing FOR YOU?" Then they would go on to say something like, "Are you eating right? Are YOU getting enough sleep? Exercise? Enjoying your favorite hobby? Reading your Bible?"
So, this is me, e.b., working through this stuff.
For the first time I tried to refrain from apologizing for my ALO, because I struggle with feeling guilty when I become aware of the hurt they cause others in the course of their life of addiction. I remind myself that the people that chose to date, live with, employ, befriend, and otherwise help my ALO are adults capable of their own decisions about who they will let into their life and trust, help and love. It's not my job to go around apologizing for or fixing the things that people other than myself do to each other. I don't know why I feel like I should, but I used to have a real problem with that, and I am working very hard to not feel, think and react that way anymore.
I had not heard from my ALO in about 5 months when I was contacted by their live-in-companion who informed me ALO was hospitalized in critical condition. My ALO's companion then asked me some very basic questions about them, which I answered truthfully to the best of my knowledge. I tried, and I think mostly succeeded in keeping emotions, drama and opinions out of it. I tried not to add anything other than what I was asked. That is difficult when faced with some whoppers of lies, which when added to the worry and concern over the health of my loved one, it's difficult to stay calm and clear-headed. The shock of some of the content of the fabrications took me aback, but I made a good effort that is miles and miles better than my reactions to these kinds of similar scenarios I had been placed in in the past. I do this by reminding myself of the content of the italicized sentence in the previous paragraph.
I remind myself that my loved one has an illness and this is part of it. I didn't cause it, I can't control it, I can't cure it. Only my loved one can, by the help and grace of God, change their life and choices.
As I mused about all of this this week, and prayed so much for my ALO I feel like God gave a little snippet of understanding. My ALO has hurt and alienated so many people in their life, but I know for sure that my Mom, Big Daddy and myself will never stop loving them. Our love is unconditional, but it's difficult sometimes. We have never been able to stop loving and caring. We have never been able or even willing to cut ties altogether. I believe that the Lord showed me that it was Him who placed ALO in a family of people that would not give up or abandon ALO.
Everybody has a cross of some kind to bear. This life is filled with hardships, some that we make ourselves, others we have thrust upon us, as Simon of Cyrene was told to carry Jesus' cross. Jesus loves us when we are unlovable and how much should we love those among us that are also a challenge.
So, it hurts me when my ALO calls me names for telling the truth regarding the lies they tell. It hurts to think about all the ways they have hurt themselves and others. Today the Lord reminded me of this:
"[And see to it that] your conscience is entirely clear (unimpaired), so that, when you are falsely accused as evildoers, those who threaten you abusively and revile your right behavior in Christ may come to be ashamed [of slandering your good lives].
For [it is] better to suffer [unjustly] for doing right, if that should be God's will, than to suffer [justly] for doing wrong."
-1 Peter 3:16-17 AMP
As I have been reading and being reminded in Crazy Love, it's easy to love people who treat you well and love you back. Jesus Himself taught us that here. If I get caught up in nursing hurts and anger I am less likely to pray for the people who need prayers the most and that includes myself and my own attitudes. I am more likely to be overcome with hurt, despair and my own bad feelings rather than overcoming evil with good.
In the past my mode of operation was to spend excess amounts of time wallowing, worrying and stewing over these types of hurts. Now I realize how unproductive that is. These situations are best handled when bathed in prayer, and by getting on with doing all the good things in life that Christ has called us to do. When I went to Al-Anon there was a saying that the members would say to each other in the meeting when someone was doing too much obsessing over the erratic and hurtful behaviour of their addicted loved one. They would say, "Yes that's bad that s/he is doing X-behaviour, but what are you doing FOR YOU?" Then they would go on to say something like, "Are you eating right? Are YOU getting enough sleep? Exercise? Enjoying your favorite hobby? Reading your Bible?"
So, this is me, e.b., working through this stuff.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Autumn Song Playlist
I searched for help in compiling this list of songs that remind me of the autumn season. Some of the songs are chosen for obvious reasons, others are purely subjective. They simply remind me of this time of year for one reason or another. I had many in my own mind, but I wanted to see if what others though about this subject. I found this and this, and hereby give them credit. If you have a song to suggest, please let me know, and if you like share why it reminds you of the fall season. If you use the playlist, I recommend using the shuffle option, it's the little "x" shaped icon on the top right of the playlist box.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Monday Night Football Widow/300
I honestly tried to like football, oh about a gazillion years ago when Big Daddy & I first got together. Well, I'm exaggerating. However long a gazillion years is, I'm quite sure 24 years is not even close. The point is that in the beginning I did try. I asked questions, I tried to learn. Big Daddy says I'm not being honest, I never really tried to like it, but I respectfully disagree. I really did try to understand football and hoped I could like it. It didn't happen. I just don't like most sports at all. Period. When Adam played football last fall, I would try to follow the game. As we sat there, I would get a little distracted and end up chatting with someone. Then I would just cheer and clap when everyone else that was rooting for our team would cheer and clap.
I joke about being a football (or sports) widow, but really I don't mind. He's not as into every single sport and play off as he used to be, and he's a fairly good and attentive husband the rest of the time. So this time of year I retire to the bedroom and watch all the Clean House or other home improvement-food network-type shows I care to, which aren't his favorites. Big Daddy gets the living room, the bigger TV, which is fine with me. He's not such a fan of those half-hour home shows. This weekend I was pleased to see a movie I like, The 300 on the schedule while Big Daddy's Saturday college and Sunday Night pro-football played. He likes that one too, but not as much as watching his favorite college team!
The 300 is not for everyone. It's what you might call a guy's kind of movie. Full of action and fighting. I prefer the TV-edited version for obvious reasons. I linked the above review which is not exactly favorable, and contains some spoilers, to give a clear picture of why many would find it objectionable. Here is another review.
I disagree with what the author of the 'Plugged In' review says in his conclusion. I personally don't think most people admire the movie for the blood and gore it portrays. I'm sure some do. I rather think that many others like it for the extreme bravery, self-sacrifice and all around kick-butt-toughness the warriors portray. They are willing to fight with everything they have for a noble cause - the cause of freedom. Some of the dialogue is Shakespearean, in my own little opinion. As when the soldier known as Captain speaks of seeing his grown, but young son die in battle: "I have lived my entire life without regret until now. It's not that my son gave up his life for his country. It's just that I never told him that I love him the most. That he stood by me with honor. That he was all that was best in me."
Another reason I think the movie has its fans is that visually, the movie is stunning. It's like nothing you have ever seen before, it's filmed in such a unique way. It has special effects that are part Matrix and part comic book.
Anyway, that's all I have to say for this week. Oh except for a couple of things.
It was really, really warm. We had a reprieve from the extreme heat about two weeks ago, but this week it was back to blistering. It actually blistered Big Daddy's head. Ouch.
This rooftop garden is amazing (thanks to found on the web). Check out the rest of the 'Top 12 Rooftop Gardens' HERE.
Well, as my Mom and my friend C.P. would say, "Toodles."
I joke about being a football (or sports) widow, but really I don't mind. He's not as into every single sport and play off as he used to be, and he's a fairly good and attentive husband the rest of the time. So this time of year I retire to the bedroom and watch all the Clean House or other home improvement-food network-type shows I care to, which aren't his favorites. Big Daddy gets the living room, the bigger TV, which is fine with me. He's not such a fan of those half-hour home shows. This weekend I was pleased to see a movie I like, The 300 on the schedule while Big Daddy's Saturday college and Sunday Night pro-football played. He likes that one too, but not as much as watching his favorite college team!
The 300 is not for everyone. It's what you might call a guy's kind of movie. Full of action and fighting. I prefer the TV-edited version for obvious reasons. I linked the above review which is not exactly favorable, and contains some spoilers, to give a clear picture of why many would find it objectionable. Here is another review.
I disagree with what the author of the 'Plugged In' review says in his conclusion. I personally don't think most people admire the movie for the blood and gore it portrays. I'm sure some do. I rather think that many others like it for the extreme bravery, self-sacrifice and all around kick-butt-toughness the warriors portray. They are willing to fight with everything they have for a noble cause - the cause of freedom. Some of the dialogue is Shakespearean, in my own little opinion. As when the soldier known as Captain speaks of seeing his grown, but young son die in battle: "I have lived my entire life without regret until now. It's not that my son gave up his life for his country. It's just that I never told him that I love him the most. That he stood by me with honor. That he was all that was best in me."
Another reason I think the movie has its fans is that visually, the movie is stunning. It's like nothing you have ever seen before, it's filmed in such a unique way. It has special effects that are part Matrix and part comic book.
Anyway, that's all I have to say for this week. Oh except for a couple of things.
It was really, really warm. We had a reprieve from the extreme heat about two weeks ago, but this week it was back to blistering. It actually blistered Big Daddy's head. Ouch.
This rooftop garden is amazing (thanks to found on the web). Check out the rest of the 'Top 12 Rooftop Gardens' HERE.
Well, as my Mom and my friend C.P. would say, "Toodles."
Friday, September 11, 2009
Key Lime Cake
This simple recipe was delicious. I think you could use any kind of lemon or lime juice and it would work well. I have made it twice now and each time it was a hit. The most time consuming thing for me was squeezing real limes to get the juice, but if you buy the juice already prepared then it's a fairly quick fix.
Ingredients:
1 (18.25 ounce) package yellow cake mix
1 (3 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding
mix
3/4 cup water
1/2 cup vegetable oil
4 eggs
5 tablespoons key lime juice
1 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar
3 tablespoons key lime juice
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease one 9x13 inch cake pan or one 10 inch bundt pan. I used the 9x13" pan.
2. In a large bowl stir together; lemon cake mix, lemon instant pudding, water, oil, eggs, and 5 tablespoons key lime juice, mixing well. Pour batter into prepared pan.
3. Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 45 minutes. Pour key lime glaze over cake while still warm.
4. To Make Glaze: Mix together the confectioner's sugar and 3 tablespoons of the key lime juice (or more if necessary), spoon glaze over warm cake. I poked holes in the cake with a fork, so the glaze would soak in.
I modified the above recipe from the one I found here.
~May the Lord comfort those whose lives were directly touched by that tragedy~
Monday, September 7, 2009
Disclaimer & Copyright
Disclaimer & Copyright:
All content in this blog created by the blog owner, me - “E.B.” or "M. D. V." and is the property of the blog owner and protected by U.S. and international copyright laws. All original art posted is mine and my property. All other art is attributed to the artist where it is known. It cannot be stored on any retrieval system, reproduced, reposted, displayed, modified or transmitted in any form, electronic or otherwise without written permission of the copyright owner except as noted below. I use some clip art & photos from the public domain. I also use Flickr photo-sharing and Creative Commons, where artists and photographers post their work and give limited copyright permission under certain conditions.
A brief excerpt of this blog's content may be quoted as long as a link is provided back to the source page on this blog.
All content reflects only my personal opinion and views on any given day, on any given subject, and that’s all subject to change, for the most part. Everything I post I do at the best of my ability and understanding at the time, and I will be happy to correct any mistakes as I am made aware of them.
My quotations and other things referenced within this blog are intended to be used under a policy of personal use. The use of any Trademark or Copyrighted material is not intended to infringe copyright. If you see anything on this blog that has not been properly attributed to its creator please let me know and I will immediately rectify that.
I am not responsible for any of the content on other sites that I link to.
I am not responsible for the content of comments posted on this blog by people other than myself. I reserve the right to edit or delete such comments should I find them offensive or inappropriate.
This blog is written in the English language and I am not responsible for any controversies or misunderstandings that arise from misunderstandings of English.
I do not mean to harm or offend anyone in the writing of this blog, it is simply my own little opinions and blather-ings about my life and subjects that pique my interest; readers are free to disagree with me.
Thanks to HERE and HERE for this disclaimer info.
All content in this blog created by the blog owner, me - “E.B.” or "M. D. V." and is the property of the blog owner and protected by U.S. and international copyright laws. All original art posted is mine and my property. All other art is attributed to the artist where it is known. It cannot be stored on any retrieval system, reproduced, reposted, displayed, modified or transmitted in any form, electronic or otherwise without written permission of the copyright owner except as noted below. I use some clip art & photos from the public domain. I also use Flickr photo-sharing and Creative Commons, where artists and photographers post their work and give limited copyright permission under certain conditions.
A brief excerpt of this blog's content may be quoted as long as a link is provided back to the source page on this blog.
All content reflects only my personal opinion and views on any given day, on any given subject, and that’s all subject to change, for the most part. Everything I post I do at the best of my ability and understanding at the time, and I will be happy to correct any mistakes as I am made aware of them.
My quotations and other things referenced within this blog are intended to be used under a policy of personal use. The use of any Trademark or Copyrighted material is not intended to infringe copyright. If you see anything on this blog that has not been properly attributed to its creator please let me know and I will immediately rectify that.
I am not responsible for any of the content on other sites that I link to.
I am not responsible for the content of comments posted on this blog by people other than myself. I reserve the right to edit or delete such comments should I find them offensive or inappropriate.
This blog is written in the English language and I am not responsible for any controversies or misunderstandings that arise from misunderstandings of English.
I do not mean to harm or offend anyone in the writing of this blog, it is simply my own little opinions and blather-ings about my life and subjects that pique my interest; readers are free to disagree with me.
Thanks to HERE and HERE for this disclaimer info.
Labor Day Paddling
I don't get to go canoeing nearly as often as I'd like. It is one of my favorite things to do. Today Big Daddy treated me and the little ones to a little canoe ride. Actually we took a vote and Big Daddy, he who is the (mostly) benevolent leader of our clan (and the one with veto power) consented. So off we went, under blue skies and fair and gentle winds. The Atlantic side of our island was most cooperative.
Since we've moved here I have really wanted to see a real live shark while canoeing or snorkeling. Before you think I'm out-of-my-ever-loving-mind, I only want to see a small shark, a baby one even, and one of the more docile species. A two or three foot nurse shark would suit me just fine. Today we were fortunate to have seen three sharks! None of them were more than 3 feet long.
We saw a swift little Bonnethead shark, and quite possibly a lemon shark pup, and also a juvenile black tip.
The following picture looks very similar to what we saw.
We also paddled to a little mangrove island and saw many cormorants roosting, a stripped and abandoned sailboat, and three white herons.
Of course we saw many fish!
Since we've moved here I have really wanted to see a real live shark while canoeing or snorkeling. Before you think I'm out-of-my-ever-loving-mind, I only want to see a small shark, a baby one even, and one of the more docile species. A two or three foot nurse shark would suit me just fine. Today we were fortunate to have seen three sharks! None of them were more than 3 feet long.
We saw a swift little Bonnethead shark, and quite possibly a lemon shark pup, and also a juvenile black tip.
The following picture looks very similar to what we saw.
We also paddled to a little mangrove island and saw many cormorants roosting, a stripped and abandoned sailboat, and three white herons.
Of course we saw many fish!
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Love Hurts, God Heals
There is someone I love very much who has an addiction problem. Obviously, addiction causes all kinds of pain and suffering, that is well known and well documented. It effects every facet of life for the addict and usually for his or her family as well. Although the addict is most acutely effected, wide ranging fall out occurs in their circle of friends and family. The nature of the condition of addiction is that the person who suffers from it can be, among many other things, self-centered and prone to much lying and deception. When you love an addict, it's easy to let such things hurt you to the point that you mix a lot of anger and resentment toward the addicted person you love. I think it's important to separate those things and realize they are symptoms of a great sickness. And like any symptom of an illness or condition, it cannot be taken personally.
May the Good Lord, full of grace and mercy shine His light on our hearts and change us for good. I mean change us and make us good, and that the change would be lasting! This can only be done through Him.
I am reminded of these passages of Scripture:
Jesus said: 9I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. 10The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. 11I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. (John 10:9-11, King James Version)
Jesus said: 27 All things have been delivered to Me by My Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father. Nor does anyone know the Father except the Son, and the one to whom the Son wills to reveal Him. 28 Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. (Matthew 11:27-29, New King James Version)
Click on:
Mark 5:2-15
26But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible. (Matthew 19:26, King James Version)
So, in reminding myself of these passages, I am encouraged and firmly believe that God heals. He can and He will, in His time.
God grant me the serenity
To accept the things I cannot change;
Courage to change the things I can;
And wisdom to know the difference.
Living one day at a time;
Enjoying one moment at a time;
Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace;
Taking, as He did, this sinful world
As it is, not as I would have it;
Trusting that He will make all things right
If I surrender to His Will;
So that I may be reasonably happy in this life
And supremely happy with Him
Forever and ever in the next.
May the Good Lord, full of grace and mercy shine His light on our hearts and change us for good. I mean change us and make us good, and that the change would be lasting! This can only be done through Him.
I am reminded of these passages of Scripture:
Jesus said: 9I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. 10The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. 11I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. (John 10:9-11, King James Version)
Jesus said: 27 All things have been delivered to Me by My Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father. Nor does anyone know the Father except the Son, and the one to whom the Son wills to reveal Him. 28 Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. (Matthew 11:27-29, New King James Version)
Click on:
Mark 5:2-15
26But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible. (Matthew 19:26, King James Version)
So, in reminding myself of these passages, I am encouraged and firmly believe that God heals. He can and He will, in His time.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Woodstock Rock and Apple Bottom Jeans Hip Hop
This song seems oddly appropriate today:
There was some hoopla last week about it being the anniversary of Woodstock and all. So I am reminded, and I am appreciating artists like the ones above. I also submit The Band, Sly and The Family Stone and whomever (!) from that day and age when music was wonderful, magical and REAL in contrast to some of the current popular music. I am considering all of this because I (finally?) heard a song this week called "Low" by Flo Rida and T- Pain, and let me just say, Pooh-pooh!
Why did I finally hear it, and how did I even come across it, living in my insulated Christian world? Because one of my 4 year old charges this week, looked at me with sweet seriousness over the lunch table, and asked, "Ms. 'EB', do you like the song Sweet Home Alabama?" "Sure, honey," I said. "Doesn't everybody?" I thought to myself, though that song was not exactly a favorite since it's tired from over-play on the radio.
Actually, I can't think of that song without recalling a warning from my my long-haired, heavy metal loving high school boyfriend of eons (not ages) ago. He said that was the only classic rock song you could crank up and not get your *bahookie* (he used another word) kicked in the small Central Florida town where we attended high school. It was a very country town back then, and he with his shaggy long hair and me with my punkability (G. K. coined it back then) we were not well received by a majority of our classmates. So it seemed at the time. But I'm digressing...
Anyway, back to "Low" and the kid from my class. This sweet-faced little cherub-rascal went on to recite some of the opening lines to the song the "Sweet Home Alabama" and then he quickly asked me a follow up question. He asked me if like the "Apple Bottom Jeans" song? And he sang some of it. "Apple Bottom Jeans*, boots with the fur*, the whole club was lookin' at her..." Having never heard it, I googled. All I can say is, "Rap stinks."
Actually that isn't true. There is some good, creative rap out there. "Low" is a catchy song, but the lyrics go from PG to R to X and it BOTHERS me. There is nothing left to the imagination anymore. That is the problem I see with most Hip-hop music in general. Sure there are dirty and gritty songs in all genres of popular music, but in my opinion, modern (not old-school) rap and hip-hop are dirty almost ALL the time. Forget double entendres, or even vague and thinly veiled mature or graphic content. We live in a p*rn saturated world, and we've come a long way since the Beatles wanted to hold your hand and even those old devils the Rolling Stones wanted to spend the night together. Sigh. Rant over, stepping off the soapbox.
* a brand name
*Uggs, perhaps?
There was some hoopla last week about it being the anniversary of Woodstock and all. So I am reminded, and I am appreciating artists like the ones above. I also submit The Band, Sly and The Family Stone and whomever (!) from that day and age when music was wonderful, magical and REAL in contrast to some of the current popular music. I am considering all of this because I (finally?) heard a song this week called "Low" by Flo Rida and T- Pain, and let me just say, Pooh-pooh!
Why did I finally hear it, and how did I even come across it, living in my insulated Christian world? Because one of my 4 year old charges this week, looked at me with sweet seriousness over the lunch table, and asked, "Ms. 'EB', do you like the song Sweet Home Alabama?" "Sure, honey," I said. "Doesn't everybody?" I thought to myself, though that song was not exactly a favorite since it's tired from over-play on the radio.
Actually, I can't think of that song without recalling a warning from my my long-haired, heavy metal loving high school boyfriend of eons (not ages) ago. He said that was the only classic rock song you could crank up and not get your *bahookie* (he used another word) kicked in the small Central Florida town where we attended high school. It was a very country town back then, and he with his shaggy long hair and me with my punkability (G. K. coined it back then) we were not well received by a majority of our classmates. So it seemed at the time. But I'm digressing...
Anyway, back to "Low" and the kid from my class. This sweet-faced little cherub-rascal went on to recite some of the opening lines to the song the "Sweet Home Alabama" and then he quickly asked me a follow up question. He asked me if like the "Apple Bottom Jeans" song? And he sang some of it. "Apple Bottom Jeans*, boots with the fur*, the whole club was lookin' at her..." Having never heard it, I googled. All I can say is, "Rap stinks."
Actually that isn't true. There is some good, creative rap out there. "Low" is a catchy song, but the lyrics go from PG to R to X and it BOTHERS me. There is nothing left to the imagination anymore. That is the problem I see with most Hip-hop music in general. Sure there are dirty and gritty songs in all genres of popular music, but in my opinion, modern (not old-school) rap and hip-hop are dirty almost ALL the time. Forget double entendres, or even vague and thinly veiled mature or graphic content. We live in a p*rn saturated world, and we've come a long way since the Beatles wanted to hold your hand and even those old devils the Rolling Stones wanted to spend the night together. Sigh. Rant over, stepping off the soapbox.
* a brand name
*Uggs, perhaps?
Crazy Love, Itchy Eyes, etc.
Well, I'm home with pink eye today. I suppose working with the little ones makes me susceptible to these things, despite frequent hand washing. We also have a mound of shell dust and dirt near the school, that is due to some city construction project. Some of my coworkers and I suspect that is the root of many discomforts and infections. Anyway, I have some time to noodle around here.
I have been reading a fantastic book by a pastor named Francis Chan called Crazy Love. I highly recommend it. Chapter 4 is slaying me. Here are some quotes from it:
This speaks to me because I am a procrastinator. By God's grace and help I have gotten better, but believe me, I am so far from being there yet. I struggle with a complacency of thinking and living like I'll get around to things tomorrow or later. I have a tendency to do that rather than seizing every opportunity to live my life to the fullest today. And that includes everything from being a Christian witness, to doing some recreational things that are good for me and that I enjoy.
I have a tendency, at times, to view myself through the lens of who I want to be, rather than who I actually am, and the way I actually act and live. To be sure, there are other times I struggle with being too hard on myself and having unrealistic goals, expectations and boundaries for myself, but that's not what I'm getting at here. I really wouldn't want to stand before the Lord right now, and it's not because I am some flagrant sinner. It's because I can fall into my own kind of Pharisee-ism, and neglect the most important thing of all: having a grateful, passionate heart of love for my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. And all that such a L-O-V-E should motivate me to do. What a lazy lover I have become. Now that I think about it, being a Pharisee could arguably be the most dire sin of all, so full of pride and thinking one is alright when one is not. I also think it's rather pathetic and amusing that when I consider my own little spiritual inventory, I want to fall on God's Mercy and be judged on my potential and who I want to become, rather than what I actually am at this minute typing these words. And of course, I view others as they actually are, and not by their God-given potential - but that's a whole 'nuther issue, as they say. 'Scuce me while I work on this big, old plank in my eye....
The emphasis is mine. My life, since knowing Jesus, has so vastly improved. I found what I was searching for my whole life, yet, as in most relationships, I find myself in a slump. You know, the doldrums. It should not be that way and I should not linger in that state! I recall the Apostle Paul's words, "How shall we escape [punishment] if we neglect so great a salvation..." Jesus loves us, so much ya'll! What a price He paid to win us, and He freely offers us everything in His Kingdom! How can I neglect that? Well, I don't know, but sometimes it sure seems like I do. And I don't want to.
Well that just convicted the snot out of me. I know that's neither eloquent nor elegant, but it's the truth about me.
Anyway, there are a few little musings from a gal with a couple of itchy eyes, who is keeping her fingers occupied elsewhere so as not to spread my germs.
I have been reading a fantastic book by a pastor named Francis Chan called Crazy Love. I highly recommend it. Chapter 4 is slaying me. Here are some quotes from it:
"I encourage you to take a searching, honest look at your life. Not who you want to be one of these days, but who you are now and how you are living today."
This speaks to me because I am a procrastinator. By God's grace and help I have gotten better, but believe me, I am so far from being there yet. I struggle with a complacency of thinking and living like I'll get around to things tomorrow or later. I have a tendency to do that rather than seizing every opportunity to live my life to the fullest today. And that includes everything from being a Christian witness, to doing some recreational things that are good for me and that I enjoy.
I have a tendency, at times, to view myself through the lens of who I want to be, rather than who I actually am, and the way I actually act and live. To be sure, there are other times I struggle with being too hard on myself and having unrealistic goals, expectations and boundaries for myself, but that's not what I'm getting at here. I really wouldn't want to stand before the Lord right now, and it's not because I am some flagrant sinner. It's because I can fall into my own kind of Pharisee-ism, and neglect the most important thing of all: having a grateful, passionate heart of love for my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. And all that such a L-O-V-E should motivate me to do. What a lazy lover I have become. Now that I think about it, being a Pharisee could arguably be the most dire sin of all, so full of pride and thinking one is alright when one is not. I also think it's rather pathetic and amusing that when I consider my own little spiritual inventory, I want to fall on God's Mercy and be judged on my potential and who I want to become, rather than what I actually am at this minute typing these words. And of course, I view others as they actually are, and not by their God-given potential - but that's a whole 'nuther issue, as they say. 'Scuce me while I work on this big, old plank in my eye....
"Lukewarm people don't really want to be saved from their sin; they want only to be saved from the penalty of their sin. They don't genuinely hate sin and aren't truly sorry for it; they're merely sorry because God is going to punish them. Lukewarm people don't really believe that this new life Jesus offers is better than the old sinful one."
The emphasis is mine. My life, since knowing Jesus, has so vastly improved. I found what I was searching for my whole life, yet, as in most relationships, I find myself in a slump. You know, the doldrums. It should not be that way and I should not linger in that state! I recall the Apostle Paul's words, "How shall we escape [punishment] if we neglect so great a salvation..." Jesus loves us, so much ya'll! What a price He paid to win us, and He freely offers us everything in His Kingdom! How can I neglect that? Well, I don't know, but sometimes it sure seems like I do. And I don't want to.
"Lukewarm people think of life on earth much more often than eternity in heaven. Daily life is mostly focused on today's to-do list, this week's schedule, and next month's vacation. Rarely, if ever, do they intently consider the life to come. Regarding this C.S. Lewis writes, "If you read history you will find that the Christians who did the most for the present world were precisely the ones that thought most of the next. It is since Christians have largely ceased to think of the other world that they have become so ineffective in this." "
Well that just convicted the snot out of me. I know that's neither eloquent nor elegant, but it's the truth about me.
Anyway, there are a few little musings from a gal with a couple of itchy eyes, who is keeping her fingers occupied elsewhere so as not to spread my germs.
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Everyone began school this week, except Big Daddy, who is pursuing scholarship information and hopes to begin some classes himself soon. In the meantime, he is embracing his role as full-time pastoral minister and stay-at-home-Dad with good results. I am getting used to my class of seven four year old kiddos. I think we are having a little honeymoon, as this was a good first week. Adam began his Junior year of HS. Flora began 5th grade with tears and fears, which miraculously subsided when she saw her good friend was in her class. Calvin went to Kindergarten with gusto. When I told him I missed him during the day, and he said, "I didn't even think about you today, Mommy!" Hahaha, he was having so much fun in his new learning environment, he didn't give me a second thought I know, and it makes me happy for him! It's so much harder on your heart when your child is clingy and fearful of school (or whatever). I tend to worry about them on and off all day long, when in all probability, they are like the little ones at our pre-school: they get over their crying or shyness within five minutes and are playing happily.
I have nothing more to say, for now. Or rather not enough time to sit down and get some thoughts together and make a real post. Until I can, I will leave you ponder this photo I came across over at the "What Not To Crochet" blog.
I have nothing more to say, for now. Or rather not enough time to sit down and get some thoughts together and make a real post. Until I can, I will leave you ponder this photo I came across over at the "What Not To Crochet" blog.
Monday, August 17, 2009
Summer playlist
Well, August is nearly over and once Labor Day comes summer will officially be over. This has just been something I have been working on for fun. If you have any other suggestions post them!
Sunday, August 16, 2009
More Lobster
Photo & recipes courtesy of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
Apparently Florida lobster prices are dipping low. That's bad news for fisherman, but good news for consumers. Help the fishermen! Try some! I am ready for some more of this delicious treat soon (I hope!). Big Daddy grilled our lobsters plain. We just dipped them in a little melted butter while we ate them. It was so good, even served plain like that. The following recipies a few more basic flavors I think will make it even better.
Steamed:
Ingredients
2 1-pound whole uncooked Florida lobsters, fresh or frozen
3 tablespoons salt
clarified butter
Preparation
Thaw lobsters if frozen. In a 6-quart saucepan, bring 3 quarts of water and salt to a boil. Place lobsters in boiling water; cover and return to boiling point. Reduce heat; simmer 12-15 minutes. Larger lobsters will take a little more cooking time. Drain; rinse with cold water for 1-2 minutes. Split and clean lobsters. Serve with clarified butter.
Yield
2 servings
Nutritional Value Per Serving
Calories 210, Calories From Fat 30, Total Fat 4g, Saturated Fat 0g, Cholesterol 285mg, Total Carbohydrate 2g, Protein 43g
Grilled:
Ingredients
Amount Ingredient
1/2 cup butter, softened
1/4 cup olive oil
2 large Florida shallots, peeled and quartered
4 large Florida garlic cloves, peeled and halved
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
salt
black pepper, freshly ground
4 whole Florida spiny lobster, split in half lengthwise
Preparation
Combine first 6 ingredients in processor and blend until almost smooth. Spread 1 heaping teaspoon seasoned butter over each lobster tail. In a small saucepan melt remaining seasoned butter; keep warm. Grill lobster tails, shell side down, 6 minutes. Turn over and grill until meat is just opaque in center, about 2 minutes. Serve with melted butter.
Yield
4 servings
Nutritional Value Per Serving
Calories 210, Calories From Fat 30, Total Fat 4g, Saturated Fat 0g, Trans Fatty Acid 0, Cholesterol 285mg, Total Carbohydrates 3g, Protein 43g, Omega 3 Fatty Acid 0.45g
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