In 2010 I had a word that I concentrated on, it became my theme for the year - Preparation. And preparation was certainly what was happening for me - to start my own business, to grow as a leader, to share my life with others, to trust in God, to love in action, and many other things.
For 2011 my word is SIMPLIFY. I'll explain.
I had a wonderful meeting with a brother of mine (my pastor) who has the freedom and guts to tell me like it is. I have this tendency to do things BIG. I think big - and then do it. Nothing wrong with that; however, if I want to be a great leader, I need to make things doable for others to join in. I am robbing others of their ability to do ministry simply because I do too much - I end up either overwhelming my volunteers with the feeling to keep up, or the guilty feeling of not keeping up. Neither of these are intentional, it just happens as I think big and do big by myself. So to my volunteers - I sincerely apologize!
For 2011 my goal as a leader is to SIMPLIFY. Keep things simple enough so that what I do as a leader is easily duplicated. Simple enough for anyone interested in doing it - can. Simple enough for more people to join in. Simple enough for everyone to start on the same page and create the big idea together. This was not my idea first, take McDonald's and Jesus. Yes, I said McDonald's and Jesus.
McDonald's is the biggest restaurant chain in the world. Would you believe they're not in the business of selling hamburgers & fries? They're in the business of building an easy-to-duplicate system - keeping systems simple so that anyone can do it then repeat it down the road. That's why they consider themselves the largest small business in the world. Their leader, Ray Kroc, had the foresight to recognize that wealth comes from depth. The same could be said for lasting effects - like the disciples.
Jesus limited Himself by giving up His seat in heaven to come to earth as a man. He showed me the way to live by limiting Himself. His life as a man is a simple concept to duplicate. Nothing is ever EASY - just SIMPLE (kinda like losing weight is a simple concept but oh,so hard to follow-thru). Jesus simplified the whole law - love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind and strength, and love others as yourself. Simple. Easy to duplicate. Hard to execute sometimes, sure, but easy to duplicate. Wealth comes from depth, and the best wealth is to see lives changed. So I will SIMPLIFY and be a leader others want to follow.
And I officially give you all the same freedom my brother has - to tell me like it is. To have no fear in being honest with me even when it comes to me. How else can I grow if I don't know. (And knowing is half the battle...come on you 80s fiends...sing it!)
I've included a cute video that shows a good leader....
Do you have fifty things to do in a day, but only time for 20? What about that workout plan you swore you'd keep up with at the first of THIS year, so you'll just renew that resolution next year. What about those books that are on your list? Is blogging and facebook time diverting your attention from just moving your body?
I know for me, it's been hard to get away from the computer. I have had office jobs my whole life - sticks you in a chair behind a desk for the bulk of the day. Between the time behind the desk and the commuting time (used to be 2 hours a day), my poor body was crying out for some much needed activity. Since I've been out of the mainstream workforce I've been able to add in some activity: work in the yard, organizing the house, helping in the greenhouse this summer (sweating like I was in the Philippines every day). But now that I'm starting my own businesses (coaching practice and jewelry shows), I spend more time behind the computer again.
A friend of mine on facebook inspired me with a solution! She had created a laptop desk of sorts for her treadmill! I loved it so much that I found some materials in the barn and created my own. Check it out!
I know for me, it's been hard to get away from the computer. I have had office jobs my whole life - sticks you in a chair behind a desk for the bulk of the day. Between the time behind the desk and the commuting time (used to be 2 hours a day), my poor body was crying out for some much needed activity. Since I've been out of the mainstream workforce I've been able to add in some activity: work in the yard, organizing the house, helping in the greenhouse this summer (sweating like I was in the Philippines every day). But now that I'm starting my own businesses (coaching practice and jewelry shows), I spend more time behind the computer again.
A friend of mine on facebook inspired me with a solution! She had created a laptop desk of sorts for her treadmill! I loved it so much that I found some materials in the barn and created my own. Check it out!
This is a fantastic set-up! I walk about 1.8-2.2 mph and can still type or read or write notes...fabulous! It takes me longer than normal to get to a mile; however, movement is movement! Now I'm getting back in the groove of getting some more weight off! And this is the best form of multi-tasking EVER!
To laugh is to risk appearing a fool.
To weep is to risk appearing sentimental.
To love is to risk not being loved in return.
To live is to risk dying.
To hope is to risk despair.
To try is to risk failure.
But risks must be taken because the greatest hazard in life is to risk nothing.
The person who risks nothing, does nothing, has nothing, is nothing.
Hey may avoid suffering and sorrow, but he simply cannot learn, feel, change, grow, love, live.
Chained by his own fears, he is a slave. He has forfeited freedom.
Only a person who risks is free!
PS: Thanks to all our Veterans who've sacrificed lives and family who have sacrificed loved ones taking the risk of protecting others. Thank you beyond all thank yous!
This has to be one of the best emails I have received in a long time because when when you sit and think about the meaning, it is so true.
One day I hopped in a taxi and we took off for the airport
My taxi driver just smiled and waved at the guy. And I mean, he was really friendly.
So I asked, 'Why did you just do that? This guy almost ruined your car and sent us to the hospital!'
This is when my taxi driver taught me what I now call, 'The Law of the Garbage Truck.'
He explained that many people are like garbage trucks. They run around full of garbage, full of frustration, full of anger, and full of disappointment.
As their garbage piles up, they need a place to dump it and sometimes they'll dump it on you. Don't take it personally.
Just smile, wave, wish them well, and move on. Don't take their garbage and spread it to other people at work, at home, or on the streets.
The bottom line is that successful people do not let garbage trucks take over their day.
Life is ten percent what you make it and ninety percent how you take it!
Have a garbage-free day!
Law of the Garbage Truck
One day I hopped in a taxi and we took off for the airport
We were driving in the right lane when suddenly a black car jumped out of a parking space right in front of us. My taxi driver slammed on his brakes, skidded, and missed the other car by just inches! The driver of the other car whipped his head around and started yelling at us.
My taxi driver just smiled and waved at the guy. And I mean, he was really friendly.
So I asked, 'Why did you just do that? This guy almost ruined your car and sent us to the hospital!'
This is when my taxi driver taught me what I now call, 'The Law of the Garbage Truck.'He explained that many people are like garbage trucks. They run around full of garbage, full of frustration, full of anger, and full of disappointment.
As their garbage piles up, they need a place to dump it and sometimes they'll dump it on you. Don't take it personally.
Just smile, wave, wish them well, and move on. Don't take their garbage and spread it to other people at work, at home, or on the streets.
The bottom line is that successful people do not let garbage trucks take over their day.
Life's too short to wake up in the morning with regrets,
so ... Love the people who treat you right.
Pray for the ones who don't.
Life is ten percent what you make it and ninety percent how you take it!
Have a garbage-free day!
What happens when you get a gift? Do you immediately rip open the packaging to get to the inside? Do you, with meticulous care, take the tape off first, then fold by fold take the paper and place it in a safe place to come to the gift after the wrapping has been secured? Or do you, like me, take off the portion of wrapping that gets you into the gift itself? What about those gift bags? Ever miss something that was tucked way down in there? Or do you just simply set the gift aside to open later?
That's what it can be like when trying to discover our true selves. There's a gift packed away inside, but it's up to us how we get to it. We can get right down to business - tearing off all the wrapping, skirt around the issues and never really get to the gift - being so meticulous, doing it with some gusto but leaving some walls up, missing the best part - not finding ALL the gift in the bag, or incredibly never even trying but staying in the status quo.
Don't set your life aside like an unopened gift. Open it - completely. Don't miss a thing. There's a gift inside you, not only for yourself but to share with others.
That's what it can be like when trying to discover our true selves. There's a gift packed away inside, but it's up to us how we get to it. We can get right down to business - tearing off all the wrapping, skirt around the issues and never really get to the gift - being so meticulous, doing it with some gusto but leaving some walls up, missing the best part - not finding ALL the gift in the bag, or incredibly never even trying but staying in the status quo.
Don't set your life aside like an unopened gift. Open it - completely. Don't miss a thing. There's a gift inside you, not only for yourself but to share with others.
I've seen this before in emails and various areas, but it bears repeating!
Several times my daughter had telephoned to say, "Mother, you must
come to see the daffodils before they are over." I wanted to go, but it
was a two-hour drive from Laguna to Lake Arrowhead . "I will come next
Tuesday", I promised a little reluctantly on her third call.
Next Tuesday dawned cold and rainy. Still, I had promised, and reluctantly
I drove there. When I finally walked into Carolyn's house, I was welcomed
by the joyful sounds of happy children. I delightedly hugged and greeted
my grandchildren.
"Forget the daffodils, Carolyn! The road is invisible in these clouds and
fog, and there is nothing in the world except you and these children that
I want to see badly enough to drive another inch!"
My daughter smiled calmly and said, "We drive in this all the time, Mother."
"Well, you won't get me back on the road until it clears, and then I'm
heading for home!" I assured her.
"But first we're going to see the daffodils. It's just a few blocks,"
Carolyn said. "I'll drive. I'm used to this."
"Carolyn," I said sternly, "Please turn around."
"It's all right, Mother, I promise. You will never forgive yourself if you
miss this experience."
After about twenty minutes, we turned onto a small gravel road and I saw a
small church. On the far side of the church, I saw a hand lettered sign
with an arrow that read, " Daffodil Garden ." We got out of the car, each
took a child's hand, and I followed Carolyn down the path. Then, as we
turned a corner, I looked up and gasped. Before me lay the most glorious
sight.
It looked as though someone had taken a great vat of gold and poured it
over the mountain peak and its surrounding slopes. The flowers were
planted in majestic, swirling patterns, great ribbons and swaths of deep
orange, creamy white, lemon yellow, salmon pink, and saffron and butter yellow. Each different-colored variety was planted in large groups so that it swirled and flowed like its own river with its own unique hue. There were five acres of flowers.
"Who did this?" I asked Carolyn.
"Just one woman," Carolyn answered. "She lives on the property.
That's her home."
Carolyn pointed to a well-kept A-frame house, small and modestly
sitting in the midst of all that glory. We walked up to the house.
On the patio, we saw a poster. "Answers to the Questions I Know You Are Asking", was the headline.
The first answer was a simple one. " 50,000 bulbs," it read.
The second answer was, "One at a time, by one woman. Two hands, two feet, and one brain."
The third answer was, "Began in 1958."
For me, that moment was a life-changing experience. I thought of this
woman whom I had never met, who, more than forty years before, had begun, one bulb at a time, to bring her vision of beauty and joy to an obscure mountaintop.
Planting one bulb at a time, year after year, this unknown woman had forever changed the world in which she lived One day at a time, she had created something of extraordinary magnificence, beauty, and inspiration.
The principle her daffodil garden taught is one of the greatest principles of celebration.
That is, learning to move toward our goals and desires one step at a
time--often just one baby-step at a time--and learning to love the doing,
learning to use the accumulation of time. When we multiply tiny pieces of
time with small increments of daily effort, we too will find we can
accomplish magnificent things. We can change the world …
"It makes me sad in a way," I admitted to Carolyn. "What might I have
accomplished if I had thought of a wonderful goal thirty-five or forty
years ago and had worked away at it 'one bulb at a time' through all those years? Just think what I might have been able to achieve!"
My daughter summed up the message of the day in her usual direct way.
"Start tomorrow," she said.
She was right.
It's so pointless to think of the lost hours of yesterdays.
The way to make learning a lesson of celebration instead of a cause for
regret is to only ask, "How can I put this to use today?"
Use the Daffodil Principle. Stop waiting.....
Until your car or home is paid off
Until you get a new car or home
Until your kids leave the house
Until you go back to school
Until you finish school
Until you clean the house
Until you organize the garage
Until you clean off your desk
Until you lose 10 lbs.
Until you gain 10 lbs.
Until you get married
Until you get a divorce
Until you have kids
Until the kids go to school
Until you retire
Until summer
Until spring
Until winter
Until fall
Until you die...
There is no better time than right now to be happy. Happiness is a journey, not a destination. So work like you don't need money.
Love like you've never been hurt, and dance like no one's watching.
If you want to brighten someone's day, pass this on to someone special.
I just did!
Wishing you a beautiful, daffodil day!
Don't be afraid that your life will end, be afraid that it will never begin.
Hey everyone! I am totally transforming my blog. Yes, again. (For me it's almost like rearranging furniture and ladies, I KNOW you know what I'm talking about!). This time the transformation will include a coaching feel. I LOVE coaching - business, leadership, individuals, etc. We're still in the process of creating a specific business website, and in addition, I wanted to redesign my blog to give it an attached feel to my website.
I've even changed the blog title: Thriving in Solid Air. The concept comes from a great book, "TheWar of Art" by Steven Pressfield. Pressfield tells of a visualization he had about an eagle picking him up and flying. He asked the eagle, "Hey, what am I supposed to be learning from this? A voice answered (silently): You're supposed to learn that things that you think are nothing, as weightless as air, are actually powerful substantial forces, as real and as solid as earth."
Blogging can be full of little moments that many may think are weightless. However. All those moments and details and concepts that we share in the blog world add up to be a substantial force - potentially powerful for personal transformation. It can also be as simple as reading blogs as a part of balance and personal space. I am excited about this design transformation and I hope you will visit often!
I've even changed the blog title: Thriving in Solid Air. The concept comes from a great book, "TheWar of Art" by Steven Pressfield. Pressfield tells of a visualization he had about an eagle picking him up and flying. He asked the eagle, "Hey, what am I supposed to be learning from this? A voice answered (silently): You're supposed to learn that things that you think are nothing, as weightless as air, are actually powerful substantial forces, as real and as solid as earth."
Blogging can be full of little moments that many may think are weightless. However. All those moments and details and concepts that we share in the blog world add up to be a substantial force - potentially powerful for personal transformation. It can also be as simple as reading blogs as a part of balance and personal space. I am excited about this design transformation and I hope you will visit often!
I received this in an email today and just HAD to share it. My hut's on fire right now and this little illustration is just what I needed!
The only survivor of a shipwreck was washed up on a small, uninhabited island. He prayed feverishly for God to rescue him. Every day he scanned the horizon for help, but none seemed forthcoming.
Exhausted, he eventually managed to build a little hut out of driftwood to protect himself from the elements, and to store his few possessions.
One day, after scavenging for food, he arrived home to find his little hut in flames, with smoke rolling up to the sky. He felt the worst had happened, and everything was lost. He was stunned with disbelief, grief, and anger. He cried out, 'God! How could you do this to me?'
Early the next day, he was awakened by the sound of a ship approaching the island! It had come to rescue him! 'How did you know I was here?' asked the weary man of his rescuers. 'We saw your smoke signal,' they replied.
The Moral of This Story: It's easy to get discouraged when things are going bad, but we shouldn't lose heart, because God is at work in our lives, even in the midst of our pain and suffering.
Remember that the next time your little hut seems to be burning to the ground. ((It just may be a smoke signal that summons the Grace of God!))
P.S. You may want to consider passing this on, because you never know who feels as if their hut is on fire today..
The only survivor of a shipwreck was washed up on a small, uninhabited island. He prayed feverishly for God to rescue him. Every day he scanned the horizon for help, but none seemed forthcoming.
Exhausted, he eventually managed to build a little hut out of driftwood to protect himself from the elements, and to store his few possessions.
One day, after scavenging for food, he arrived home to find his little hut in flames, with smoke rolling up to the sky. He felt the worst had happened, and everything was lost. He was stunned with disbelief, grief, and anger. He cried out, 'God! How could you do this to me?'
Early the next day, he was awakened by the sound of a ship approaching the island! It had come to rescue him! 'How did you know I was here?' asked the weary man of his rescuers. 'We saw your smoke signal,' they replied.
The Moral of This Story: It's easy to get discouraged when things are going bad, but we shouldn't lose heart, because God is at work in our lives, even in the midst of our pain and suffering.
Remember that the next time your little hut seems to be burning to the ground. ((It just may be a smoke signal that summons the Grace of God!))
P.S. You may want to consider passing this on, because you never know who feels as if their hut is on fire today..
When I went out to do my morning devotional on the swing, I looked up and saw I had a visitor.
I thought of how this little guy must have taken an hour or two at least to get that high on the swing - my head high. It reminded me that it's ok to take my time. That making those moments in the morning so special since it's just me and God and nature.
Then I started reading - in Revelation. Yeah, I know. But it's an awesome book. In Chapter 3 vs 10 it says, "Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from teh hour of trial that is going to come upon the whole world to test those who live on the earth." Endure patiently. Makes me think of another verse, Philippians 3:13-14: "Brethern, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus."
Thanks for the confirmation! I just love when God talks to me plainly when I need to hear from Him. And this message was certainly it. I hope it's something you can cling to as well!
I thought of how this little guy must have taken an hour or two at least to get that high on the swing - my head high. It reminded me that it's ok to take my time. That making those moments in the morning so special since it's just me and God and nature.
Then I started reading - in Revelation. Yeah, I know. But it's an awesome book. In Chapter 3 vs 10 it says, "Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from teh hour of trial that is going to come upon the whole world to test those who live on the earth." Endure patiently. Makes me think of another verse, Philippians 3:13-14: "Brethern, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus."
Thanks for the confirmation! I just love when God talks to me plainly when I need to hear from Him. And this message was certainly it. I hope it's something you can cling to as well!
My friend, Lynn, has just honored me with my FIRST blog award. This'll be fun.
The rules...
1. Thank the person who gave you the award... THANK YOU LYNN!
and...
2. List seven (7) things about yourself that people don't know.
Wow, that may be hard. If you've read my blog for any length of time you know a lot already. But let me see...it HAS been awhile since I've blogged.
1. I am officially a professional life coach. This is a career change for me in the past year. I have a marketing background, but life coaching really allows for transformation in people's lives. I finally feel I'm who God created me to be :-).
2. I have a secret vice of watching Days of Our Lives. It's that nice little escape from not only my reality - but a lot of the world's reality. Seriously, that period when Marlena was a demon, and how many times can people come back from the dead? The baby switches, and uncovered secrets played out over WEEKS, all the twists & turns and dramatic pauses. But I think what I like the most - the hairstyles. I really wish I could do some those styles myself. Maybe I should work in a personal hairstylist to my future goals.
3. I have no interest in watching any of the Twilight movies or read the books. Now, that statement may knock me out of or never allow me in some social circles. Oh well. Now, Harry Potter or Star Wars - right on! Wonder if it's because it's directed specifically to women (chick-flick), which I just stay away from.
4. Just like Lynn, I'm a band geek. Yep, that's me. I taught myself to read and play music long ago, still have my instruments, and even taught marching band/flag corps for awhile. In fact, a couple of my former students are talking about doing a "reunion." I hestitated to say "old" students, because that would make me old too. Not happening.
5. I don't like the word geek anymore. Do you know what the original definition of "geek" is? Check here for the full version. How did it get so distorted?
6. I talk to myself a lot. That's why having pets ar a good thing. It's an excuse to talk outloud as often as I want. Lately though, I just feel like I talk to the Holy Spirit or whatever angel is on duty for the day.
7. I'm going on another mission trip - to Romania this time. I would have tried to do both Romania and Philippines, but the dates are the same time. I'll be going to Tinca, Romania, a gypsy village to simply be the hands and feet of Jesus. We're doing a 5-day VBS, prayer walk, relationship-building with families and older people who need some basic supplies. Plus, I think there's "football" involved. Wonder if I'm coordinated enough to kick a soccer ball?
So that's seven. And I would love to pass along the honor to: Mrs. 4444, Chris, and The Prairie Maid! Check them out along with Lynn
The rules...
1. Thank the person who gave you the award... THANK YOU LYNN!
and...
2. List seven (7) things about yourself that people don't know.
Wow, that may be hard. If you've read my blog for any length of time you know a lot already. But let me see...it HAS been awhile since I've blogged.
1. I am officially a professional life coach. This is a career change for me in the past year. I have a marketing background, but life coaching really allows for transformation in people's lives. I finally feel I'm who God created me to be :-).
2. I have a secret vice of watching Days of Our Lives. It's that nice little escape from not only my reality - but a lot of the world's reality. Seriously, that period when Marlena was a demon, and how many times can people come back from the dead? The baby switches, and uncovered secrets played out over WEEKS, all the twists & turns and dramatic pauses. But I think what I like the most - the hairstyles. I really wish I could do some those styles myself. Maybe I should work in a personal hairstylist to my future goals.
3. I have no interest in watching any of the Twilight movies or read the books. Now, that statement may knock me out of or never allow me in some social circles. Oh well. Now, Harry Potter or Star Wars - right on! Wonder if it's because it's directed specifically to women (chick-flick), which I just stay away from.
4. Just like Lynn, I'm a band geek. Yep, that's me. I taught myself to read and play music long ago, still have my instruments, and even taught marching band/flag corps for awhile. In fact, a couple of my former students are talking about doing a "reunion." I hestitated to say "old" students, because that would make me old too. Not happening.
5. I don't like the word geek anymore. Do you know what the original definition of "geek" is? Check here for the full version. How did it get so distorted?
6. I talk to myself a lot. That's why having pets ar a good thing. It's an excuse to talk outloud as often as I want. Lately though, I just feel like I talk to the Holy Spirit or whatever angel is on duty for the day.
7. I'm going on another mission trip - to Romania this time. I would have tried to do both Romania and Philippines, but the dates are the same time. I'll be going to Tinca, Romania, a gypsy village to simply be the hands and feet of Jesus. We're doing a 5-day VBS, prayer walk, relationship-building with families and older people who need some basic supplies. Plus, I think there's "football" involved. Wonder if I'm coordinated enough to kick a soccer ball?
So that's seven. And I would love to pass along the honor to: Mrs. 4444, Chris, and The Prairie Maid! Check them out along with Lynn
I got this in an email from my aunt today and loved it. I hadn't seen it before. If you have, enjoy it again :-).
RECALL NOTICE:
The Maker of all human beings (GOD) is recalling all units manufactured, regardless of make or year, due to a serious defect in the primary and central component of the heart.
This is due to a malfunction in the original prototype units code named Adam and Eve, resulting in the reproduction of the same defect in all subsequent units. This defect has been technically termed "Sub-sequential Internal Non-Morality," or more commonly known as S.I.N., as it is primarily expressed.
Some of the symptoms include:
1. Loss of direction
2. Foul vocal emissions
3. Amnesia of origin
4. Lack of peace and joy
5. Selfish or violent behavior
6. Depression or confusion in the mental component
7. Fearfulness
8. Idolatry
9. Rebellion
The Manufacturer, who is neither liable nor at fault for this defect, is providing factory-authorized repair and service free of charge to correct this defect.
The Repair Technician, JESUS, has most generously offered to bear the entire burden of the staggering cost of these repairs. There is no additional fee required.
The number to call for repair in all areas is: P-R-A-Y-E-R.
Once connected, please upload your burden of SIN through the REPENTANCE procedure. Next, download ATONEMENT from the Repair Technician, Jesus, into the heart component.
No matter how big or small the SIN defect is, Jesus will replace it with:
1. Love
2. Joy
3. Peace
4. Patience
5. Kindness
6. Goodness
7. Faithfulness
8. Gentleness
9. Self control
Please see the operating manual, the B.I.B.L.E. (Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth) for further details on the use of these fixes.
WARNING: Continuing to operate the human being unit without correction voids any manufacturer warranties, exposing the unit to dangers and problems too numerous to list and will result in the human unit being permanently impounded. For free emergency service, call on Jesus.
DANGER: The human being units not responding to this recall action will have to be scrapped in the furnace. The SIN defect will not be permitted to enter Heaven so as to prevent contamination of that facility. Thank you for your attention!
- GOD
P.S. Please assist where possible by notifying others of this important recall notice, and you may contact the Father any time by 'Knee mail'!
Because He Lives!
RECALL NOTICE:
The Maker of all human beings (GOD) is recalling all units manufactured, regardless of make or year, due to a serious defect in the primary and central component of the heart.
This is due to a malfunction in the original prototype units code named Adam and Eve, resulting in the reproduction of the same defect in all subsequent units. This defect has been technically termed "Sub-sequential Internal Non-Morality," or more commonly known as S.I.N., as it is primarily expressed.
Some of the symptoms include:
1. Loss of direction
2. Foul vocal emissions
3. Amnesia of origin
4. Lack of peace and joy
5. Selfish or violent behavior
6. Depression or confusion in the mental component
7. Fearfulness
8. Idolatry
9. Rebellion
The Manufacturer, who is neither liable nor at fault for this defect, is providing factory-authorized repair and service free of charge to correct this defect.
The Repair Technician, JESUS, has most generously offered to bear the entire burden of the staggering cost of these repairs. There is no additional fee required.
The number to call for repair in all areas is: P-R-A-Y-E-R.
Once connected, please upload your burden of SIN through the REPENTANCE procedure. Next, download ATONEMENT from the Repair Technician, Jesus, into the heart component.
No matter how big or small the SIN defect is, Jesus will replace it with:
1. Love
2. Joy
3. Peace
4. Patience
5. Kindness
6. Goodness
7. Faithfulness
8. Gentleness
9. Self control
Please see the operating manual, the B.I.B.L.E. (Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth) for further details on the use of these fixes.
WARNING: Continuing to operate the human being unit without correction voids any manufacturer warranties, exposing the unit to dangers and problems too numerous to list and will result in the human unit being permanently impounded. For free emergency service, call on Jesus.
DANGER: The human being units not responding to this recall action will have to be scrapped in the furnace. The SIN defect will not be permitted to enter Heaven so as to prevent contamination of that facility. Thank you for your attention!
- GOD
P.S. Please assist where possible by notifying others of this important recall notice, and you may contact the Father any time by 'Knee mail'!
Because He Lives!
I showed you what my retreat looked like in my previous post, but I forgot to show off the view! This is where I start my days. Just me & God. And the robin that likes to perch on the fencepost and "talk" to me. And the hummingbirds chasing each other overhead. And the rabbits that scurry along the fenceline.
The hummingbirds have been back since Derby weekend. Their regular time of year to come home. And the babies have all hatched and grown too...there's at least seven little motors flying around the feeders. They're so used to me just being out there they'll fly right up to my face to let me know their juice is low (or even my office window if I'm not outside). So I stood out around the feeder to get a decent picture of one of my "little men."
The hummingbirds go through more sugar in a summer than I personally go through in a whole year. It's ridiculous, but they LOVE it! And they have a "squatter" that refuses to leave the bar...
It's not like I don't have plenty of flowers around for him to get nectar from. How do you get bee to do what he's supposed to do naturally? Guess he fits in around here with the cat who doesn't kill mice. Maybe he's thinking "work smarter, not harder." Seems to be working well for him.
The hummingbirds go through more sugar in a summer than I personally go through in a whole year. It's ridiculous, but they LOVE it! And they have a "squatter" that refuses to leave the bar... This little bee keeps his head stuck in the holes to get all the juice he can. He hops from hole to hole, and the hummingbirds just hop over top of him to another hole. The only time he steps away from "the bar" is when a wasp wants in on the goods. He actually flew right up beside me as if I was the bouncer to get the wasp out of the way. So I've affectionately named him "glutton."
It's not like I don't have plenty of flowers around for him to get nectar from. How do you get bee to do what he's supposed to do naturally? Guess he fits in around here with the cat who doesn't kill mice. Maybe he's thinking "work smarter, not harder." Seems to be working well for him.
} It's Friday, right? Time to get my fragment on!
} My precious cats, right? Remember that post about my cat in comparison to the "garden goddess?" Well, he finally killed the mouse - by default. He apparently chased it into an area it couldn't get out of, like stuck between two wall pictures I have stored behind my bedroom door. It took a few whiffs and strategic searching, but finally found the dead mouse in those pictures. Gross. All I can say about it.
} I'm
going to Romania! Not by myself, but with a group that will be doing ministry work in teh village of Tinca, Romania. There's a ministry there, Forget-Me-Not Ministries, that is the hands and feet of Jesus to the forgotten Gypsy families in Tinca. It's a new part of the world for me, but the mission is the same - go love on people showing them the light of Christ in a dark world. Rachel and Dave, ministry partners, have started the Isaiah Center to take care of local children who's families cannot manage well without that support. Awesome ministry to partner with this year! But I have to tell you, I can't wait to schedule my next trip to the Philippines to see all my friends, brothers & sisters-in Christ there. Miss them greatly and emails just don't do the same.
} Summer's so close I can feel it...on my skin, in my sinuses, calf muscles, eyeballs...my body's really letting me know it's time to get active and used to the sun! The yardwork is paying off. At an 80% done mark for my retreat. So I'm saving that for a full post. :-) The garden's coming in nicely, flowers are getting planted and continue to bloom, it's just so beautiful!
} Starting a business is rewarding. I'm nervously excited to see who God's going to bring across my path. I'm very open to doing complimentary sessions (so let me know if you want to join in the fun!). I've put together a variety of workshops and possible retreat ideas. I'm hoping to get a chance to work with some corporations as well. I love the variety it offers. I'll be doing some public speaking in the next couple of months as well. Right now in the process of putting together all kinds of goodies to offer people to keep themselves on track in their personal growth. I love this life! Now I just need my bank account to fill to overflowing :-).
} Spent last weekend in Denver with my iPEC peeps. "What is iPEC?," 
you might ask. Well, it's the training program for my Life Coaching certification. This life coaching journey is a whole posting in-and-of-itself, so the short of it is that now that I've figured out I've been doing it my whole life, I decided to get official certification. This process is intense! Talk about personal development. And the things you get to overcome while in that safe place is amazing. I go into those intensive weekends thinking I'm going to just learn some more processes about how to help people get to breakthrough levels in their lives never dreaming that I'm reaching mine in the process! Awesomely amazing stuff going on.
you might ask. Well, it's the training program for my Life Coaching certification. This life coaching journey is a whole posting in-and-of-itself, so the short of it is that now that I've figured out I've been doing it my whole life, I decided to get official certification. This process is intense! Talk about personal development. And the things you get to overcome while in that safe place is amazing. I go into those intensive weekends thinking I'm going to just learn some more processes about how to help people get to breakthrough levels in their lives never dreaming that I'm reaching mine in the process! Awesomely amazing stuff going on.} My precious cats, right? Remember that post about my cat in comparison to the "garden goddess?" Well, he finally killed the mouse - by default. He apparently chased it into an area it couldn't get out of, like stuck between two wall pictures I have stored behind my bedroom door. It took a few whiffs and strategic searching, but finally found the dead mouse in those pictures. Gross. All I can say about it.
} I'm
going to Romania! Not by myself, but with a group that will be doing ministry work in teh village of Tinca, Romania. There's a ministry there, Forget-Me-Not Ministries, that is the hands and feet of Jesus to the forgotten Gypsy families in Tinca. It's a new part of the world for me, but the mission is the same - go love on people showing them the light of Christ in a dark world. Rachel and Dave, ministry partners, have started the Isaiah Center to take care of local children who's families cannot manage well without that support. Awesome ministry to partner with this year! But I have to tell you, I can't wait to schedule my next trip to the Philippines to see all my friends, brothers & sisters-in Christ there. Miss them greatly and emails just don't do the same.} Summer's so close I can feel it...on my skin, in my sinuses, calf muscles, eyeballs...my body's really letting me know it's time to get active and used to the sun! The yardwork is paying off. At an 80% done mark for my retreat. So I'm saving that for a full post. :-) The garden's coming in nicely, flowers are getting planted and continue to bloom, it's just so beautiful!
} Starting a business is rewarding. I'm nervously excited to see who God's going to bring across my path. I'm very open to doing complimentary sessions (so let me know if you want to join in the fun!). I've put together a variety of workshops and possible retreat ideas. I'm hoping to get a chance to work with some corporations as well. I love the variety it offers. I'll be doing some public speaking in the next couple of months as well. Right now in the process of putting together all kinds of goodies to offer people to keep themselves on track in their personal growth. I love this life! Now I just need my bank account to fill to overflowing :-).
Hi. My name's Beauregard, but my lady calls me 'blue boy'. 
Today was a big day for both me and my lady, I reached 300,000 miles. This is me and where I hit the 300,000 mark... 
Today was a big day for both me and my lady, I reached 300,000 miles. This is me and where I hit the 300,000 mark... This is where we were headed...home from selling flowers in town. Well, she sold flowers, I got to rest and car-watch.
She and I have been through a lot. She got me when I only had 35 miles and there was 4 inches of snow on the ground. We had fun 4-wheeling on the test-run. That's when she knew I was the one. She actually tells people I was a gift from God...that, and that I'm the most dependable man in her life. Well, close second to Jesus anyway. We work a lot. I can't tell you how much stuff has been loaded in my cab and in my bed...
And there's still work to be done...
But I enjoy being the one my lady chooses to go places with. I'm grateful I get to take her places she enjoys going - and we get there in a "timely" fashion. We've been all over, North Carolina to New York, Missouri to Mississippi, and Tennessee lots. I enjoy a good run, that's for sure. When her friend drives me, it's a slower pace. And that's good too - nice to see all that's around until a deer comes out of nowhere. We've had our fair share of mishaps and sprains, and I'm starting to feel my age a bit, but my lady takes care of me. And I'll continue to take care of her. Can't wait to see another 300,000 miles!
And there's still work to be done...
But I enjoy being the one my lady chooses to go places with. I'm grateful I get to take her places she enjoys going - and we get there in a "timely" fashion. We've been all over, North Carolina to New York, Missouri to Mississippi, and Tennessee lots. I enjoy a good run, that's for sure. When her friend drives me, it's a slower pace. And that's good too - nice to see all that's around until a deer comes out of nowhere. We've had our fair share of mishaps and sprains, and I'm starting to feel my age a bit, but my lady takes care of me. And I'll continue to take care of her. Can't wait to see another 300,000 miles!
Summer's almost officially here, and my personal goal was to make it until June to turn on the air conditioner. Almost made it. This picture is close to where I caved-in. It was 86 degrees in the house yesterday. The air HAD to come on. The cats were panting, spread-eagle on the kitchen floor. I got the hint. 
Then I busted out laughing simply because I didn't know what else to do. But then we immediately thought of how close he came to busting his eye out. So after the initial shock wore off, I had to go find the nozzle. That includes crawling under the neighbors fence to get to the bean field. Little did I know - it was electrified. Only a small zap on the tush, but still.
So I finally found the nozzle, thank goodness the beans are only 6 inches tall right now and the nozzle was bright orange. When I had to crawl back under the fence to get out, Bill was standing over me "cheering" me on...as if I was a marine. I did it though - all those military movies paid off. I knew how to do "the crawl" and avoided getting my butt zapped.
We both decided that was a sign to stop for the night. We got back at it this morning, and water is now flowing into the pool! Should be swimming by the weekend!
We worked outside all day yesterday. I went with Bill to help powerwash a house clean. I was the official gopher and ladder-holder. Whatever helps. Then we got some topsoil on the way home to level-up the pool area. Got all that shoveled around, sand back over it, and ready to clean it. Borrowed mom's powerwasher. It didn't want to work right - clogged. So the machine gets turned off and Bill's pulling the nozzle off the wand. When all of a sudden - POP! The nozzle goes flying off 100 feet into the bean field. We both just stood there with our mouths open, wide-eyed.
Then I busted out laughing simply because I didn't know what else to do. But then we immediately thought of how close he came to busting his eye out. So after the initial shock wore off, I had to go find the nozzle. That includes crawling under the neighbors fence to get to the bean field. Little did I know - it was electrified. Only a small zap on the tush, but still.
So I finally found the nozzle, thank goodness the beans are only 6 inches tall right now and the nozzle was bright orange. When I had to crawl back under the fence to get out, Bill was standing over me "cheering" me on...as if I was a marine. I did it though - all those military movies paid off. I knew how to do "the crawl" and avoided getting my butt zapped.
We both decided that was a sign to stop for the night. We got back at it this morning, and water is now flowing into the pool! Should be swimming by the weekend!
Apparently I have bully situation in my yard. You see, there's this mockingbird...
And he has taken a real liking to my yard. So much so that he has laid claim to all the feeders. All five of them. Hummingbird feeders included. If another bird even tries to come close to them, he chases them off, comes back to perch on top of the feeder, and puffs himself out to three times his size. My biggest problem with this is that he doesn't even eat from the feeders! He's just being a bully.
The hummingbirds are too quick for him, so they can still get their food. Having two feeders, they just zip back and forth giving the mockingbird a headache from spinning in circles.
I've seen a few collisions with robins that are hunting for worms - mockingbirds like those too and apparently feel that EVERYTHING in the yard, including the worms, is his. But today teh little bully finally met his match. Enter into the ring - The Red-Breasted Woodpecker!
This beautiful gal LOVES the feeders. I have a couple of suet cake feeders, but she prefers to peck at the plaster column that has the regular feeder on it. She shares her space. She doesn't bother the doves or sparrows or finches or any other visitor. She takes up more space, but she doesn't chase off. Well, she works her way around the column to the feeder and low-and-behold who should appear? Right, resident bully. She doesn't move but continues to eat. He even attacks her while she's eating! She politely lands on the stone ground, puffs up and begins to peck at his head! Needless to say, the mockingbird took off and left her alone. She went back to eating. And other birds started showing up again.
Now, the mockingbird is still around, but I'm hoping that he learned his lesson. Just like I can learn from the red-breasted. Share and don't be afraid to stand up for myself as well as others.
And he has taken a real liking to my yard. So much so that he has laid claim to all the feeders. All five of them. Hummingbird feeders included. If another bird even tries to come close to them, he chases them off, comes back to perch on top of the feeder, and puffs himself out to three times his size. My biggest problem with this is that he doesn't even eat from the feeders! He's just being a bully.
The hummingbirds are too quick for him, so they can still get their food. Having two feeders, they just zip back and forth giving the mockingbird a headache from spinning in circles.
I've seen a few collisions with robins that are hunting for worms - mockingbirds like those too and apparently feel that EVERYTHING in the yard, including the worms, is his. But today teh little bully finally met his match. Enter into the ring - The Red-Breasted Woodpecker!
This beautiful gal LOVES the feeders. I have a couple of suet cake feeders, but she prefers to peck at the plaster column that has the regular feeder on it. She shares her space. She doesn't bother the doves or sparrows or finches or any other visitor. She takes up more space, but she doesn't chase off. Well, she works her way around the column to the feeder and low-and-behold who should appear? Right, resident bully. She doesn't move but continues to eat. He even attacks her while she's eating! She politely lands on the stone ground, puffs up and begins to peck at his head! Needless to say, the mockingbird took off and left her alone. She went back to eating. And other birds started showing up again.
Now, the mockingbird is still around, but I'm hoping that he learned his lesson. Just like I can learn from the red-breasted. Share and don't be afraid to stand up for myself as well as others.
} Still busy. But I have a strategic summer plan now. May is my "Motion" month, June "Momentum," and July "Maintain." I will be focusing heavily on my life coach/freelancing business in June. I'm finishing work with the auction company this month. Turns out that I have been spending over 20 hours per week BEFORE an auction on auction work. And no, it's not the kind of money to be an actual income.
} And in May there are some projects I want ot get done so I can enjoy the summer: pool, retreat area, some sewing projects, and some inside projects. Like my computer table. My office is a hodge-podge of different furniture of different colors. It works though. However, my computer table used to be an outside patio table. I had painted it with outdoor paint and stenciled butterflies and dragonflies on it - in pretty 
colors. But this has totally clashed with by blue & red office. So I FINALLY got it outside, sanded it down, and repainted it a chiffon color (white w/touch of yellow). Very grown-up looking now. I should add the golden lasso maybe to match the room now. Don't really NEED to grow up in every area.
} Still helping out at the greenhouse. Love it - wish I had my own small greenhouse to at least start my plants every spring as well as grow all kinds of fancy stuff! This cactus is housed at the greenhouse. Not sure which cactus it is - but these blooms are fantastic. They only last a couple of days though. So glad I got this shot.
} My own yard is a late bloomer. Always has been. But I love it. I planted a couple of poppies last year and prayed they wouldn't get weedeated. Whaddya' know - they made it! And they're gorgeous.
} Then there was a couple other yard projects - the walkway and mailbox areas. My walkway has grown into a mismash of different hosta varieties and boxwoods. And it's not symmetrical - not pretty. So I moved a bunch of it around and invested in a couple varieties of columbine. Beautiful dainty bloomed shade plant. Then moved some hostas to the mailbox area. I have 10 varieties of hostas in my yard. Each one blooms differently. Talk about God's creativity. It's in action all over the place. I'll have enough 
hosta growth to separate and share next year!
} And in May there are some projects I want ot get done so I can enjoy the summer: pool, retreat area, some sewing projects, and some inside projects. Like my computer table. My office is a hodge-podge of different furniture of different colors. It works though. However, my computer table used to be an outside patio table. I had painted it with outdoor paint and stenciled butterflies and dragonflies on it - in pretty 
colors. But this has totally clashed with by blue & red office. So I FINALLY got it outside, sanded it down, and repainted it a chiffon color (white w/touch of yellow). Very grown-up looking now. I should add the golden lasso maybe to match the room now. Don't really NEED to grow up in every area.
} Still helping out at the greenhouse. Love it - wish I had my own small greenhouse to at least start my plants every spring as well as grow all kinds of fancy stuff! This cactus is housed at the greenhouse. Not sure which cactus it is - but these blooms are fantastic. They only last a couple of days though. So glad I got this shot.
} My own yard is a late bloomer. Always has been. But I love it. I planted a couple of poppies last year and prayed they wouldn't get weedeated. Whaddya' know - they made it! And they're gorgeous.
} Then there was a couple other yard projects - the walkway and mailbox areas. My walkway has grown into a mismash of different hosta varieties and boxwoods. And it's not symmetrical - not pretty. So I moved a bunch of it around and invested in a couple varieties of columbine. Beautiful dainty bloomed shade plant. Then moved some hostas to the mailbox area. I have 10 varieties of hostas in my yard. Each one blooms differently. Talk about God's creativity. It's in action all over the place. I'll have enough 
hosta growth to separate and share next year!} And then there's the KIA room. I'll have to get pictures of the latest. Next month I want it to be even cooler. Although, having it look like Hawaii in there makes me want to get my pool open even faster.
This is Zoe, the new addition to the greenhouse family and who I've affectionately dubbed, Garden Goddess. 
She just showed up at the greenhouse one day so the guys adopted her. Even took her to the vet to get "fixed" and a check-up. She's such a friendly girl, although not a huge fan of the dog, Barney, who is very jealous of any attention Zoe gets.
Zoe is a natural hunter. Before the arbor grew and started blooming out, Zoe found her way up there to lay in wait for the sparrows. She did great getting up there, not so hot getting down. She's shown her love for the greenhouse owners by bringing them dead things already. I found a mouse one day, then a mole another. When I discovered that, Steve and I hi-fived! She's a moler! That's an asset!
On the flip side is my boy...he's border-line special needs. Either that, or a pacifist. He's "caught" a mouse three times now. And each time he just plays with them and let's them go. Bugs? He'll kill and eat those. But how can you resist this face when he's looking to be loved-on?
She just showed up at the greenhouse one day so the guys adopted her. Even took her to the vet to get "fixed" and a check-up. She's such a friendly girl, although not a huge fan of the dog, Barney, who is very jealous of any attention Zoe gets.
Zoe is a natural hunter. Before the arbor grew and started blooming out, Zoe found her way up there to lay in wait for the sparrows. She did great getting up there, not so hot getting down. She's shown her love for the greenhouse owners by bringing them dead things already. I found a mouse one day, then a mole another. When I discovered that, Steve and I hi-fived! She's a moler! That's an asset!
On the flip side is my boy...he's border-line special needs. Either that, or a pacifist. He's "caught" a mouse three times now. And each time he just plays with them and let's them go. Bugs? He'll kill and eat those. But how can you resist this face when he's looking to be loved-on?
} What am I doing lately? More work than ever - and not reporting to an employer. Amazing, really. Plus, I've made it a point not to be on the computer all day every day. So that cuts my blogging time a lot. HOWEVER, my yard's getting in shape, my house is getting in order, and my life is changing. Will I ever get back to blogging regular? Yep! Looking forward to it actually! So be prepared....
} I've been doing some great life/success coaching lately. It's a
wesome to see lives tranformed right beore my eyes.
} FINALLY got to see The Blind Side. But it was AFTER I got to attend the Desire to Inspire series at Northside featuring the Tuohy's. Leanne Tuohy is amazing. She's definitely on my "Board of Directors."
} Today is a gorgeous day - lots of outside potential activity. It's also Oaks Day in this area. Almost a national holiday for Louisville. It's the locals Derby Day.
But is it really all about the horses? I don't think so. The hats get just as much attention as the horses do. And there are some wild and crazy things out there! Here's just one site that has lots of Women's beautiful Derby hat options: Hats in the Belfry.
} I've been doing some great life/success coaching lately. It's a
wesome to see lives tranformed right beore my eyes. } FINALLY got to see The Blind Side. But it was AFTER I got to attend the Desire to Inspire series at Northside featuring the Tuohy's. Leanne Tuohy is amazing. She's definitely on my "Board of Directors."
} Today is a gorgeous day - lots of outside potential activity. It's also Oaks Day in this area. Almost a national holiday for Louisville. It's the locals Derby Day.
But is it really all about the horses? I don't think so. The hats get just as much attention as the horses do. And there are some wild and crazy things out there! Here's just one site that has lots of Women's beautiful Derby hat options: Hats in the Belfry.} Well, not a long list today. Just a quick fragment of life for Friday! Off to do something outside while it's not raining! Thanks for stopping by!
Love these Friday Fragments! For more - go see Mrs.4444 @ Half-Past Kissin' Time:
Since the weather has been extremely cooperative these past couple of weeks, I've decided to get my butt-in-gear with getting my yard updated. The overall goal is to get 
everything done that needs to be done before May, then maintain the rest of the Summer. That's not too much to ask, really. But it is a lot to do.
Yesterday (Monday) Bill and I loaded up, brought home, and unloaded over 30 decorative concrete blocks I bought at auction Sunday. Then we proceeded to take down a couple of pieces that are just not lovely to make it clear for the backhoe to get in there next week. It's going to make a level spot to put the pavers back in for a sitting area. Christy's Retreat is now more than a dream.
Today (Tuesday), I spent time this morning cleaning up my walkway. I went with mulch on the left (sunny) si
de last year only to discover the wind velocity around my house carries off mulch. I didn't like the concept of having to re-mulch every year anyway. So rock it is. Got a ton of rock (literally) at Earth First for roughly $15! So I pulled weeds, replaced plastic to hinder the weeds, shoveled rock on-top along the way, and placed low planters in-between the liriope for wave annuals. I can't wait to get that color placed in there!
Then I went and worked at the greenhouse again. It's so much fun! And I have a new friend that loves to share! I have some new additions to put in my other areas that I'll show later. And I shared a couple of hosta plants with her. We just get all giggly with pretty plants and getting new ones to share. And it's just amazing all the colors at the greenhouse! EVERY color - blue, purples, reds, yellows, oranges, green of course, but there's so much creativity in creation. Go figure! I love that I'm made in God's Image - He's creative and so am I!
After all this, I got to go to one of my small group studies. It was a true Jesus moment in our Christian lives. Love you guys! Then came home to listen to a life coaching training call. I truly enjoyed it. Took two pages of notes. Now I've just been using all that anabolic (postive high) energy jammin' loudly to some great music. I think Dierks Bentley could sing to me any moment of any day and I could melt.
everything done that needs to be done before May, then maintain the rest of the Summer. That's not too much to ask, really. But it is a lot to do.Yesterday (Monday) Bill and I loaded up, brought home, and unloaded over 30 decorative concrete blocks I bought at auction Sunday. Then we proceeded to take down a couple of pieces that are just not lovely to make it clear for the backhoe to get in there next week. It's going to make a level spot to put the pavers back in for a sitting area. Christy's Retreat is now more than a dream.
Today (Tuesday), I spent time this morning cleaning up my walkway. I went with mulch on the left (sunny) si
de last year only to discover the wind velocity around my house carries off mulch. I didn't like the concept of having to re-mulch every year anyway. So rock it is. Got a ton of rock (literally) at Earth First for roughly $15! So I pulled weeds, replaced plastic to hinder the weeds, shoveled rock on-top along the way, and placed low planters in-between the liriope for wave annuals. I can't wait to get that color placed in there! Then I went and worked at the greenhouse again. It's so much fun! And I have a new friend that loves to share! I have some new additions to put in my other areas that I'll show later. And I shared a couple of hosta plants with her. We just get all giggly with pretty plants and getting new ones to share. And it's just amazing all the colors at the greenhouse! EVERY color - blue, purples, reds, yellows, oranges, green of course, but there's so much creativity in creation. Go figure! I love that I'm made in God's Image - He's creative and so am I!
After all this, I got to go to one of my small group studies. It was a true Jesus moment in our Christian lives. Love you guys! Then came home to listen to a life coaching training call. I truly enjoyed it. Took two pages of notes. Now I've just been using all that anabolic (postive high) energy jammin' loudly to some great music. I think Dierks Bentley could sing to me any moment of any day and I could melt.
Am I the ONLY person who doesn't keep up with Dancing With The Stars? I actually had a couple extra hours this evening and decided to post something on my blog. I turn on the and notice on the guide that Dancing is on. I like the show, don't get me wrong. But I just don't keep up. I just have no interest in Kate - she looks worn out on the cover of the tabloids, so I'm guessing it's rough and there's drama. Plus, I can keep up through Rebecca's blog. :-)
I also don't keep up with American Idol or Survivor or The Amazing Race or Big Brother or any other "reality" show. Not sure why, maybe it's because I get easily annoyed. Maybe it's because I do much to keep up with a TV show regularly. Maybe I just don't like reality shows. That's makes me a minority lately. Nothing new about that!
HOWEVER. I LOVE to watch the dancing portion of "Dancing." I love the creativity, the expression, the passion that comes out. Love it. I would love to dance like that myself. (Especially if the guy would be as gorgeous as Max).
So for all of you who watch the reality shows, I'm glad you have something you enjoy. It's just not my favorite thing to keep up with. Although....now that I'm a life coach maybe I SHOULD be keeping up with them. I could get some dandy ideas of questions to be asking. Like for Kate, how different would your life look if you never had kids? (She just might not be a "reality star). Or Kate, how do you want your life to look when the kids are having kids? Or Simon, how would your life look in a year if everything you did had a positive result? Oh, wait, I already know the answer to that - money-making-marketing genius Simon will still be successful and tellin' it like it is.
I'm at my first ever SuperStart! It's a conference for 4th, 5th and 6th graders (4th & 5th grade for our group), that teaches about God in engaging entertaining ways. We have 9 kids and 7 adults - good ratio. The music is awesome, and we've been having a great time! ALL the kids are getting into it, having good conversations. I have just discovered that I'll be a pastor living in a mansion driving a Jeep Wrangler, have two kids, not married the guy I want, but hey...that's why there's mansion. Ever play the MASH game? I just did... Night all!
From the Billy Graham devotional daily calendar:
I've been told that the French translation of this phrase, "Cast all your care upon Him" is "Unload your distresses upon God." Have you ever seen a dump truck get rid of its load? The driver simply pushes a button or pulls on a lever and the heavy load is discharged at the prescribed spot.... We we never meant to be crushed under the weight of care.... Unload the anxieties of the present moment upon Him, for He cares for you. If He loved you enough to take away the burden of your sins, can't you trust Him to take away every lesser burden as well?
I've been told that the French translation of this phrase, "Cast all your care upon Him" is "Unload your distresses upon God." Have you ever seen a dump truck get rid of its load? The driver simply pushes a button or pulls on a lever and the heavy load is discharged at the prescribed spot.... We we never meant to be crushed under the weight of care.... Unload the anxieties of the present moment upon Him, for He cares for you. If He loved you enough to take away the burden of your sins, can't you trust Him to take away every lesser burden as well?
When I went to Denver to start my life coach training, I had some friends suggest that I do a vision board for the book I'm writing. Great idea! So I took it one step further - a personal vision board. This was so much fun, and a little hard. I had to know myself to come up with so many different images. But for anyone who wants a visual of who you are - put one of these together. It's been a great creative marketing/advertising method for years. I'm going to be doing one of these for all kinds of projects now! What would your vision board look like?
Our pastor told an illustration today with his message that is sticking with me. It was about this master violin player that played in concert halls all across the world with his Stradivarius violin. One day he decided to do an experiment - he would play in the subway.
So he took is 1700s violin and went to play his top 4 famous songs in the Subway. The rush of people continued to pass by this violin player with his case open wide as if to beg for a dime. The children were amazed at the sounds, but pulled along by parents. No one stopped to listen. No one stopped to be amazed. No one stopped to hear the Master play the violin.
Just like Lynn's blog spot about Thunder, this is a great illustration of listening to God. I just never want to miss the opportunity to hear the Master. And I think I've been doing better with that in my life lately. So much that I just HAD to make a lasagna dinner for some wonderful people that are in the hospital with their baby girl, Emily.
I say HAD, because as some of you know, I'm on the Atkins diet - no lasagna for me. Well, I could, but I'd had to take out the lasagna. But have you ever had one of those days where you just KNEW you needed to do ______. That was Friday. I just KNEW I needed to take them a homecooked meal. And being the fantastic people they are loved it and was very appreciative. It was a total pleasure to do it for them. And I got to spend real time with them. It was awesome. And to hear all about their journey with Infantile Spasms, wow. I encourage you to check out Erica's blog. She's a great mommy with a huge heart and has this blog to share her experience and make connections with others going on similar paths.
So he took is 1700s violin and went to play his top 4 famous songs in the Subway. The rush of people continued to pass by this violin player with his case open wide as if to beg for a dime. The children were amazed at the sounds, but pulled along by parents. No one stopped to listen. No one stopped to be amazed. No one stopped to hear the Master play the violin.
Just like Lynn's blog spot about Thunder, this is a great illustration of listening to God. I just never want to miss the opportunity to hear the Master. And I think I've been doing better with that in my life lately. So much that I just HAD to make a lasagna dinner for some wonderful people that are in the hospital with their baby girl, Emily.
I say HAD, because as some of you know, I'm on the Atkins diet - no lasagna for me. Well, I could, but I'd had to take out the lasagna. But have you ever had one of those days where you just KNEW you needed to do ______. That was Friday. I just KNEW I needed to take them a homecooked meal. And being the fantastic people they are loved it and was very appreciative. It was a total pleasure to do it for them. And I got to spend real time with them. It was awesome. And to hear all about their journey with Infantile Spasms, wow. I encourage you to check out Erica's blog. She's a great mommy with a huge heart and has this blog to share her experience and make connections with others going on similar paths.
I am so excited! Really. Words cannot truly express my excitement about my weekend I just experienced. All I can say is that I have 
found my niche. I was confirmed all weekend about choosing this new life path. What is it? Life Coaching.
What is a life coach? Well, we focus on solutions. Unlike therapists, we do not dwell on the client's past nor try to analyze behavior. We believe the client already has the answers, it's out job to help them discover it. We're motivators and encouragers. We're accountability partners. We help you get to where you want to be in any and all areas of your life.
I'm excited to get started on some real coaching sessions and workshops. So if you're interested...keep coming back or contact me! We'll get started on getting your vision and goals to reality.
found my niche. I was confirmed all weekend about choosing this new life path. What is it? Life Coaching.What is a life coach? Well, we focus on solutions. Unlike therapists, we do not dwell on the client's past nor try to analyze behavior. We believe the client already has the answers, it's out job to help them discover it. We're motivators and encouragers. We're accountability partners. We help you get to where you want to be in any and all areas of your life.
That's me.
We covered a ton of principles and processes all weekend - over 30 hours worth. There's lots more to come! By the time I finish my certification training I will have roughly 300 hours of coaching and education...a whole 'nother degree.
I'm excited to get started on some real coaching sessions and workshops. So if you're interested...keep coming back or contact me! We'll get started on getting your vision and goals to reality.
This week I've been getting consignors ready for the huge auction 
yesterday. There was a building FULL of stuff to sell, and lots of great items, too. Lots of stuff. Almost too much stuff. It took a lot of effort and organizing talent to get all this stuff in some sort of understandable order. And to find those hidden treasures that are at every auction, you really had to search through all of it. Over 200 pictures, stacks and stacks of LPs (yes, records BEFORE cds), Furniture that filled half the building, and about 14 tables full of small items like dishes, toys, antique tools, salt & pepper shakers, and the list could go on for miles. 
Normally, I try my hardest NOT to buy anything. But as the tables were getting cleared, the most adorable little knick-knack came into view. His little bright blue face was so uplifting I just couldn't resist getting him for my own. Isn't he cute!
When I got him home, I then had to decide his purpose. I don't keep toothpicks out in the open, and I wanted him closer to my regular view. So in the office he goes. AND, his little holder is the
Then when I realized that I hadn't blogged in awhile (again), I just had to share him with you. Plus, finding him reminded me of how God finds my heart. Through my own jumbled mess, God searches and knows me. (He ought to, He made me in the first place). But even though my heart is full of confusion and emotion and desires and aches sometimes, God finds the center, His treasure. And when I can rest in that, I find MY Treasure. Plus, He gives me a purpose and direction. Like my little blue buddy now makes me smile while he's holding my lip gloss.
"The heart is hopelessly dark and deceitful, a puzzle that no one can figure out. But I, God, search the heart and examine the mind. I get to the heart of the human. I get to the root of things. I treat them as they really are, not as they pretend to be." (Jeremiah 17:9-10 The Message)
yesterday. There was a building FULL of stuff to sell, and lots of great items, too. Lots of stuff. Almost too much stuff. It took a lot of effort and organizing talent to get all this stuff in some sort of understandable order. And to find those hidden treasures that are at every auction, you really had to search through all of it. Over 200 pictures, stacks and stacks of LPs (yes, records BEFORE cds), Furniture that filled half the building, and about 14 tables full of small items like dishes, toys, antique tools, salt & pepper shakers, and the list could go on for miles. 
Normally, I try my hardest NOT to buy anything. But as the tables were getting cleared, the most adorable little knick-knack came into view. His little bright blue face was so uplifting I just couldn't resist getting him for my own. Isn't he cute!
When I got him home, I then had to decide his purpose. I don't keep toothpicks out in the open, and I wanted him closer to my regular view. So in the office he goes. AND, his little holder is the
perfect size for my lip gloss!
Then when I realized that I hadn't blogged in awhile (again), I just had to share him with you. Plus, finding him reminded me of how God finds my heart. Through my own jumbled mess, God searches and knows me. (He ought to, He made me in the first place). But even though my heart is full of confusion and emotion and desires and aches sometimes, God finds the center, His treasure. And when I can rest in that, I find MY Treasure. Plus, He gives me a purpose and direction. Like my little blue buddy now makes me smile while he's holding my lip gloss.
"The heart is hopelessly dark and deceitful, a puzzle that no one can figure out. But I, God, search the heart and examine the mind. I get to the heart of the human. I get to the root of things. I treat them as they really are, not as they pretend to be." (Jeremiah 17:9-10 The Message)
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