The Gingerbread House

Pliars and Rings

2012-01-06T20:04:00.000-08:00

I've had this desire to make jewelry. But really? Like I need another "thing." So I have put it off. But for January I have joined a craft-a-long (for lack of a better term). This lovely group of Christian women on Ravelry have decided to make a craft a month. The craft for January is this cute pair of chain maille earrings. Here's my earrings:

The first pair is following these directions. The second pair is my attempt at just copying a pair I saw online. I'm probably hooked, but what do you do? It's in my blood.

1.1.12

2012-01-01T19:27:00.000-08:00

It is the first of January and all is GOOD.

New Year's Day denotes the invisible line that separates what was with what we hope will be. We use it like a blackboard eraser. But like a blackboard there is a shadow of what was written. The dust collected in between the tabs of felt that compose its form.

Remember how we used to take them outside and beat them together? Dust cloud rising, filling the air. Drifting over the playground. Do you remember?

Each new year past wafting up through the air as we scratch the next onto the board with a fresh piece of chalk.

Crafted Christmas

2011-12-24T03:12:00.000-08:00

The goal for many years has been to celebrate a Christmas holiday that is less commercial and more personal. Well, this year I have successfully crafted the bulk of my Christmas giving. Here's some of the stuff...
MEMORY GAME

So easy! I bought four packs (6 in a pack) of these wooden 3X2 inch signs at Michaels for about $1.20 each, and the paper mache box for $1. I bought 1 package of stickers from the dollar store, there were three sheets in the pack, I used two for the cards and a few to decorate the box. I painted the cards and the box with acrylic paint (everything dries REALLY FAST). I decoupaged the stickers to the cards and to the box and I used a Sharpie to label the box.

Upcycled Denim Apron

Oh yeah! I followed the tutorial HERE, took some creative liberties and came up with this pretty apron. I used blanket binding and left the bottom hem alone. Have another one standing by...ran out of binding, gonna have to make some...yuck! Not my fav thing to do...

HOT CHOCOLATE
I picked up a recipe on FoodNetwork.com and then I packaged my hot chocolate mix in an old Folger's Instant Coffee jar. I cut a label that looks like a shirt top and glued it in place of the original label. Then I added a label to the lid and
wrote the instructions down and glued on some buttons to accent.

pillows-- I made two. Had everything on hand! (Here's a pic of one)

and a little Canning

Pickled Cucumbers, Bell Peppers, Jalapeno Jelly and some Strawberry Preserves that I helped my friend make.

Now it's late...time for bed!

Need a Gift Tonight

2011-12-21T07:48:00.000-08:00

Taking my own twist on an already existing pattern, I adjusted a neckwarmer pattern to lay a little bit flatter and squared the edges up to make a neat scarf.

SCARF NOW

Ch 28 (includes 23 foundation, sk2, turning ch3)
R1- (2dc, ch2, sc) in 5th ch from hook, *sk 3, (2dc, ch2, sc) in next st. Rep from * across to last 3 sts, sk 2, dc in last st. Turn.
R2- Ch3, [(2dc, ch2, sc) in ch2 sp] repeating between [ ] across. Dc in 3rd st of skipped 5. Turn.
R3- Ch3, [(2dc, ch2, sc) in ch2 sp] repeating between [ ] across. Dc in turning ch.
Repeat R3 to desired length.

So What...?

2011-12-02T22:42:00.001-08:00

So what have I been up to. After being sick with the flu...then a sinus infection I got some meds and got busy.

Scarves - 1 more finished (no pic)

My new love...Buntings - 3 done (tonight)

Dinner - Ground Beef Soup: 1 1/2 lb ground beef, 1/2 med. onion (diced), 3 zuccini squash (peeled and diced), taco seasoning packet, 1 C Chunky Salsa, 1 can corn, 1 can black beans, garlic powder, season salt, pepper, chicken bullion, water. Brown the meat and saute the onions, drain. In a large pot combine meat, squash, taco seasoning, salsa, corn, black beans, 2t garlic, 1t salt, 1/2 t pepper, 2t bullion. Add water to cover and boil. Ready to eat when squash is soft and soup has thickened up.

2 December 11

2011-12-02T05:30:00.001-08:00

They say...the older you get the faster time seems to pass. I suppose there is some truth to that. In as busy as we think we need to be we have our hours filled with activity. We have abandoned the time that we spent as children laughing with friends, coloring, and playing outside. Instead we opt to punch on computer keys, making appointments, getting things done. Even our free time is scheduled. Planned vacations and dinner dates. Spontaneity may be the timepiece we have neglected as we stare at complacency. As we age, regret and remorse tick-tock in the shadows of our minds causing us to battle vicariously the things that we don't have time for anymore. Seemingly. Skipping pages to get to the final chapter.

I am determined to slow this puppy down. Taking smaller steps and turning down random forks in the road. Lying down when I am tired and skipping as I am moved. Spending bigger moments in the presence of God and letting Him command a greater portion of my time. Dwelling.

Take off your shoes and start moving back the way you came. Spend some of that time.

One Hour Scarf

2011-11-23T17:39:00.000-08:00

I sat down for an hour today to watch Martha Stewart and finished this scarf before the show ended. Much unlike the knitted one that I also finished this morning, but which took several weeks!!! Give me instant gratification any day...

If you scroll through by blog, this is the same pattern as the Rosey Posey Scarf but with only three repeats. All V stitch :) If you can't find it here, look for it on Ravelry...I am GingerG!

Think right. Speak right. Do right.

2011-10-28T05:17:00.000-07:00

BE RIGHT.

Little thoughts. Words of wisdom.
A collection that I will preserve.
Announced. Aloud.
Because if I don't say anything--
is it?
Must I?
Will you remember the thought that you said I thought real loud?
Will you?
Because if you don't say anything--
Aloud. Announced.
I can effortlessly deny.
Little thoughts.
I can pretend there were no
words of wisdom.

The Focus of My Desire

2011-09-28T06:00:00.000-07:00

Of all the things that I had ever imagined I would do, this is it. If you had asked me, do you see yourself in a classroom, in front of a group of kids, showing them the tricks you mastered to master mathematics, or tapping into their minds to pique a poetic or artistic interest, I would have simply told you yes.

But life doesn't always seem to flow in one direction. It ebbs and twists all over the place, dipping into valleys and climbing great mountains. And though you are moving, always moving, once you have taken your eyes off the goal, there is no telling where you might end up.

I consider the Isrealites and their "walk." I have been walking in my own wilderness. Wandering and wasting time. Trying to imagine what would happen if I didn't have control and then deciding that I must control. Everything. That unknown must be a curse word and I will let nothing foul escape from my lips. But, like the Isrealites, I have always known in my heart what God put there and it was inevitable, if given enough breathing hours, I would return to it.

If you would have asked, I would have told you that the desire I have to be like those great women and men in my life who stood before me, sharing their passions, their dedication and their faith, is overwhelming! The knowledge, at times, is secondary to what those teachers really gave me. And I hope it is the same for me. I hope that I impact these lives in ways that a text book never could. I hope to impact their lives in a way that will move them 20 or 30 years from now to do what they love, do it for Christ, and do it with passion. I hope that I impact them to impact others. Isn't that the way we are supposed to live? Isn't that the thing that is supposed to drive us, keeping focus on the goal?

Breathe

2011-09-01T20:57:00.000-07:00

The cool night air
filling the corners of my lungs
Those places where the air hasn't been
because my breathing has been shallow
Quickened by the onslaught of chores
and duties
and desires
Robbing myself of the renewing
oxygen
The nights are so short
and the air
that accompanies the sun is so hot
I don't want to breathe it at all
I just want to stay in the night
breathing
deeply
deeply.

Determination...

2011-08-26T20:18:00.000-07:00

So after much online research about my newest sewing machine I find that it doesn't free-motion quilt. Bummer. So I dug out my old machine and it decided that it wasn't going to free-motion quilt either. REALLY? I've done a twin size quilt before with this machine. I took it apart, cleaned it, put it back together again, still get "spider webs" on the back of my practice swatch. Adjust the machine, disassemble, clean, assemble...nothing... grrrr. I put the machine up. A year later I pull that bugger out again. No go. I pack it back away. About three weeks ago I pull it out again, play with it and still can't get it to quilt. I now have a collection of quilt tops. So I decide to take it to an acquaintance to see if she can get my machine to work...then I didn't, I just packed it back up but didn't put it away, I just set it in the garage. So I pull it out two days ago and...

I think I out-waited that sewing machine.

Or I just bullied it into doing what I wanted. Nonetheless, I got a quilt done!

Rosey-Posey Scarf

2011-08-23T21:26:00.000-07:00

I thought it would be fun to see me crochet... self serving? Maybe, but so what?! I didn't speed this up, it's really how fast I am able to crochet. Well...not actually. I am sweating like crazy in 100 degree weather so my hands are really sweaty too so I'm probably crocheting slower than usual. No matter....this is me making this really pretty pink scarf. Here's some stills!

So it took about 4 days...

It kinda looks like a star pattern but they are v-st fans.
Ch21, dc in 6th ch from hook, (dc, ch1, 2dc) in same sp, sk3, (2dc, ch1, 2dc in next st) across to last st, dc, turn.
Ch3, (2dc, ch1, 2dc) in ch1 sp across, dc in turning chain.

That's it to the pattern. I used one skein of Red Heart Soft in Lt. Country Rose (5oz) and an I hook. I ended up with less that 12 inches waste.

Procrastination

2011-08-15T06:53:00.000-07:00

Is it the contemplation
of the action
that causes us pause
in that fraction
of a moment in time?
And the blossoming
of that fraction
that maintains an
inaction
laziness sublime?
Muscles becoming
rheumatic.
Traumatic.
A disease that takes over
the being
the sight of the seeing
as if the future is lost on the blind.
Movement is required
to toss our expired
milk
down the sink.
When watered well
the blossoms will swell
to a most elegant
bouquet.
Fragrant?
Growing up
and around
and through.
In a fraction
of a moment.
Surrounded by petals
of procrastination
that stink.

Doings

2011-08-13T20:16:00.000-07:00

I try to make time every day to do something with my hands that doesn't involve a sponge, some cleaning solution or a utensil...

So...I'm on this knitting kick. No, I don't really knit, per se. I Crochet. But I can knit, purl and k2tog. So I decided to get busy doing something different.

I'm getting kind of quick too.

The washcloths are fun, but don't look too closely. I've got some big knit-issues ;)

Marie

2011-06-25T22:35:00.000-07:00

Sitting cross legged on the bed
Were you sick that day?
I don't remember
Sitting in your room
Excitement infectious
You told the story
Hands waving in the wind
Painting the scene
Showing the story
Accenting words
Legs tingling
Falling asleep from the sitting
But sitting still
Still
Held captive by the words
The chronological telling of events
Where you sick that day?
I don't remember

CHEESE!

2011-06-13T06:55:00.001-07:00

Tap Dancin' Toddler

2011-06-03T23:23:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you don't even know what your kids can do. The gifts that God gives to each one! WOW!

WRITE

2011-05-09T05:36:00.000-07:00

I am a writer. Sometimes I am a good writer. Sometimes not so. But I have an arsenal of erasers and so far, I haven't busted the delete button on the computer. I write because that is who I am. The words that I put on paper paint the pictures that are in my heart, on my mind, ride my spirit. Writing encourages me and hopefully my writing encourages.

This morning I found a note in my email from a long ago friend. A sister poet. A writer. A poem -- not intended for me in particular, but just the same, just for me. Inspiration. And every time I hear from her sandwiching months or years in between I have a renewed passion. It's like a revival for my craft.

See Anastacia Tolbert here!

Yard Sale

2011-05-07T20:55:00.000-07:00

Saturday
Salty skin, crumpled bills and the jangle of coins
Men and women
Sometimes a child
Picking up and putting down
Shirts and too-small blue jeans
Books and hats
Knick-knacks and old mis-matched dishes
Bargaining a dollar down to 50 cents
What's it worth to you?
And is it late in the day?
One's trash; another's treasure
Not really
Or it would have long gone the way
Of the trash truck

It's almost Mother's Day... My babies are happy to oblige me...cheese!!

What a Ham!!!

HOMEKEEPER'S JOURNAL

This one is from last month... See the original here

My biggest kitchen disappointment ……… nothing lately, but I am still disappointed about the marmalade that I cooked into a HARD jar FULL of orange candy.

I’ve learned this from disappointment ….. Just because things don't go the way I had hopped, it's not the end of the world.

What I hope my children can learn from disappointment ….. That they don't lose hope because of it, and that they don't let it control their mind and heart.

Disappointment with people ….. gives us reason to practice forgiveness. We must see it as a gift from God.

The Bible speaks about disappointment a lot. Here are some verses that give us comfort and strength in the face of disappointment. Choose one and tell how that verse can help you overcome disappointment……

Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ. For the wrongdoer will be paid back for the wrong he has done, and there is no partiality. Colossians 3:23-25

I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God that you may know that you have eternal life. And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us. 1 John 5:13-14

And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Philippians 4:6-7

I have to chose the last one, Philippians 4:6-7. Do not be anxious about anything. That is so hard for me sometimes. Especially in the middle of the night when the house is quiet and the children are asleep and I am not busy doing. It is then that my mind wanders and I start to worry. I need to remind myself of the rest of the scripture, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ. At those times I pray and I rebuke those doubts and worried thoughts. I ask God to calm my spirit and renew my faith.

Busy Bee...that's ME!

2011-04-20T16:32:00.000-07:00

Oh yes! I have been very, very busy...

On the hook-- a zig zag afghan I have been commissioned to make.

On the sewing machine-- just finished a quilt for my friend's first grandson. Nine patch scrappy quilt with a cartoon bird back and low loft poly bat.

In the kitchen-- I made butter! If I had known it was that easy I would have been making butter years ago!
(1 pint heavy whipping cream, beat until it separates into curds and whey with hand mixer on low, pour off liquid, knead and rinse in cool water until water runs clear, blend in 1/2 teaspoon salt)

On paper-- A poem (growing things prompt) "Weeds" and two poems for an event in July and August. "Seduction" and "Love Poem."

WEEDS

The weeds have grown tall in the back yard
The wind and the rain
Have planted seed deep and reaching
There once was grass
I suppose
Before we moved in
But for us the earth has granted dirt
Dust
And weeds
Thigh-high now
As spring emerges from sleep
The weeds have grown tall in the back yard
I track the rustle of green fronds
My dog is like a lion
On the prowl in the deep underbrush
Of the African tundra
He’s looking for a place to pee
Or sleep
Maybe he’s lost in there and is just
Trying to get back to the house
The weeds have grown tall in the back yard
My husband will wince from his armchair
Requests turn to nagging
The children suffer cabin fever
They stand at the window long-faced
Staring wide-eyed and open-mouthed
They want to go
But they are afraid
Angry, thick, sticky stems
Furry leaves and foul smelling flowers
Engulf half of the see-saw
and the dismount of the slide
The weeds have grown tall in the back yard
Avoidance is one answer
While waiting for the dry heat of summer
When we will preserve water
And watch the struggle
The ultimate demise
Of each leaf and spine and tangled mass
Giving way to
Little round stickers
Implanting themselves in socks
And the dog’s fur

Book Review: "Max on Life" by Max Lucado

2011-04-19T07:57:00.000-07:00

Insightful! Delightful! Straightforward! Honest but Gentle!
Those are the words I would use to describe Max on Life by Max Lucado. I have always enjoyed reading books by Max Lucado because of his gentle way of presenting God's Word. Max on Life was no exception. I had a hard time reading it cover to cover. When I first received my free copy of the book for review from Booksneeze I went straight to the table of contents. "HOME- Diapers, Disagreements, and 'Any hope for prodigals?'" I flipped to page 151 and started there. As the mother of seven; two teenagers, a young adult, two grade-schoolers and two pre-schoolers I have often wondered if they would make me lose my mind before they grew up. And of course we all wonder if we are raising a child in the way he should go who won't choose to go that way...we worry about our children, if we are making good decisions, we struggle with family relationships and personal issues. Max Lucado touches on some of these big issues and sets a biblical basis for his answers. You don't believe him? Look it up for yourself, pray about it, and meditate on it. As I read I found myself taking a good look at myself.

Each section of the book is the answer to a question from a real letter that Max Lucado has received over the years, addressing everything from purpose to promise.

When I put the book down my 18 year old daughter promptly picked it up. I caught her flipping back and forth through the pages. She seemed to be as intrigued by finding out the answers as I was. She isn't a reader but fondly remembers a gift book that still sits on our bookshelf, Just in Case You Ever Wonder by Max Lucado, and I think she has long ago made him her "friend."

My only complaint about the book was that I wished for more substance. The questions are answered in about one page and I often wanted more. Some of the answers seemed way too simplified and elementary and didn't really address the problem. For example, there was a letter about a person with a bad temper. The answer was a page long analogy about water dripping and causing erosion. The bottom line was prayer and forgiveness. Not quite what I expected.

Nonetheless, I recommend the book because of its overall positive qualities and the loving insight of Max Lucado. If nothing more, it's a good starting point for study and meditation.

Book Review: "The Final Summit" by Andy Andrews

2011-04-19T07:18:00.000-07:00

I received a copy of The Final Summit by Andy Andrews from Thomas Nielson to review. You can get FREE books to review too if you sign up at Booksneeze.com. This is the fourth book I have read by this author and I loved it. Andrews has a way of taking the natural and intwining it with the supernatural in a way that is magical and mystifying. He makes the reader think that maybe this could happen and I wonder if, and what if it were me? The book is about a group of people throughout history who have the task of convening to prepare an argument to plead the case of humanity before God. In the coming together the reader meets an archangel and several notables in world history, each given very likely characteristics. The main character, David Ponder, comes from our century and is assigned to be in charge of the summit. David has experienced his own devastating ups and downs in life and is a modern day Job. What will he do when he's called upon to extend his faith in God to all of humanity? The Final Summit is an easy read and, as is the style of Andrews, pulls you into the story and makes you see each character as personal and real.

If you read and enjoyed The Shack, you will enjoy The Final Summit.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Stool Mat

2011-04-13T11:55:00.000-07:00

My dear husband bought me a kitchen stool for Valentine's Day!

I was at the yarn shop last night and saw a fabric crochet rug, hence the inspiration for my Stool Mat! So...you got a naked stool, some scrap fabric and a Q hook? Let's go!

Cut 3" strips of fabric. I used 2 yards and had a few strips left over.

Start with a Magic Loop.

Throughout, to manage your ends crochet over them. When you start a new strip pull up a loop and take the tail end of that strip and pull it up and between the fabric on the hook and the working fabric. Let the end of the last strip lie with it on top of the sts to be worked. Work over them.

Round 1 - Ch 2 and make 7 sc in the loop. (8sts)

Round 2 - Without joining make 2sc in each st around. (16sts)

Round 3 - (Sc in next st, 2sc in next st) around. (24sts)

Round 4 - (Sc in next 2 sts, 2sc in next st) around. (32sts)

Round 5 - (Sc in next 3 sts, 2sc in next st) around ending with 1 sc instead of 2 in the last st. (39 sts)

I stopped here for a 13 inch mat, but continue increasing or omit rounds for the size of your stool.

To finish off sl in the next 2 sts then weave the tail back and forth through the work.

To make the ties, use a few of your strips, cut to the length desired. Place your mat on top of your stool and push the ends of the strip through and around a stitch on the last row of stitches. Pull them down, wrap twice around the leg and tie in a bow. Repeat for the other legs.

Book Review: "How to Be God's Little Princess" by Sheila Walsh

2011-03-30T15:47:00.000-07:00

How very sweet a book!

I received a complimentary copy to review from Thomas Nelson. I thought I would share this book with my seven year old daughter. As I read through the book, in my opinion, I found it to be better suited for a girl a little bit older than her for reading alone. Her age with help. I would recommend the book for girls 9-15.

"How to Be God's Little Princess" reminded me of the etiquette classes we took as pre-teens. The lessons are taught in a way that is unassuming and gentle. Girls are reminded to be sweet, clean, and ladylike. I really enjoyed the humor in the book and the easy and silly short "quizzes" at the end of each section. The thing I liked best about "How to Be God's Little Princess" was that it's not just about how society and your mother expect girls to behave, it's about how God expects girls to behave and being a good witness for Christ. To Ms. Walsh...Well done!

Friends and Ravelry

2011-03-25T21:28:00.000-07:00

I have been making new friends on Ravelry.com. One of the lovely ladies, MrsRooster, can be seen here: http://www.mrsrooster.blogspot.com/ I picked this Journal up from her site with my own entries :) You can see the orignial at www.christianhomekeeper.org!

This week the Homekeeper’s Journal is about Spring Time Changes.

In My Kitchen This Week … Friends and Family day at church Sunday. I promised dinner rolls.

Changes I Make To My Home In Spring … Stop using the stove so much, move to the grill :)

Changes In My Schedule … Outside in the early mornings.

Changes In My Yard/Homestead … Bugs! Bees!

What I Look Forward to This Spring … Warm days and taking the kids out of the house.

Spring Brings with It … Baseball and I'm hoping to see some games at the stadium.

A Sure Sign Of Spring … There are blooming trees down the main street. I love it!

A Favorite Spring Activity … Going ANYWHERE outside! The farmer's market is especially nice on a Saturday morning.

Book review: "Captured by Grace" by David Jeremiah

2011-03-07T05:43:00.000-08:00

If you listen to Dr. Jeremiah on the radio and are touched by his teachings then you have to pick up a copy of Captured by Grace. I received a free copy of the book to review from Thomas Nielson, Booksneeze.com.

We had just started a series in Bible study on forgiveness. We talked about those things in our past that we still haven't gotten over, the things in our present that hold us back and the things that keep us from moving forward. So Captured by Grace was right on time. As I do with many of the Thomas Nielson books I used this book as a devotional, reading a bit each day. Dr. Jeremiah showed me why I need to forgive myself based on the grace of God-- in my past, through the present, looking toward the future. His writing is straightforward and his examples, as always, were right on point. My favorite person in the Bible, Paul, is the topic of a great analogy to show God's awesome grace.

Captured by Grace is a easy read and I would recommend it for everyone's library.

I passed my copy on.

The Boy Who Changed the World by Andy Andrews - Book Review

2010-09-10T19:44:00.000-07:00

My intention was to read The Boy Who Changed the World by Andy Andrews to my multi-age Children's Church class, but after reading through the book and having a really hard time keeping the characters straight, I decided that using the book for the pictures and re-telling the story in my own words would be better received by my class of 2-12 year olds. I was right. Even my 17-year-old was confused. She read and re read and said to me, "Mom, I just don't get it." I explained the connections as best I could, but I couldn't imagine that younger kids would get what a teenager couldn't grasp. It's not the concept, it's the complicated web of characters who have impacted the world.

The artwork by Philip Hurst is great. The illustrations are beautiful watercolors, deep colors and fanciful butterflies on each page that further illustrate the theory. The kids loved looking for and identifying the butterflies throughout the story.

I received a free copy of The Boy Who Changed the World through Booksneeze in exchange for my honest review.

The Butterfly Effect by Andy Andrews - Book Review

2010-09-10T18:50:00.000-07:00

"How Your Life Matters" is a fitting subtitle for Andy Andrews' new book, The Butterfly Effect, because your life really does matter, not just to yourself, but to and in the lives of others, those you have contact with and those you don't even know exist. Decisions that you make today may impact people miles away or decades away, the effects go on and on. This book may entice you to ponder a bit before you make your next move!

I have read Andy Andrews before and have been pleased. This short and easy to read illustration of how everything that you do has an effect outside of your little bubble. I had considered this concept before, but the way that Andrews shares his spin on it is interesting. Without retelling the story, I have to say that there is a little confusion about who is related to whom and how they effect the others, but once I slowed down and carefully thought through each character and how he related to the others it clicked. The book is wonderful and I will share my copy.

By the way...this is another one of those Booksneeze! reviews :)

Book Review- Outlive Your Life by Max Lucado

2010-09-10T18:01:00.000-07:00

I received a copy of Outlive Your Life as a reviewer for BookSneeze! For this book review I went in expecting much and came out with much more. Outlive Your Life is much more than an inspirational word from Max Lucado, it is a call to action. Each chapter challenged me to look at other people's lives and the impact they have made on the world that will go on to generations beyond them, and then to reflect on my own life and how I want to impact the world I leave behind. Max Lucado made me re-think loving like Christ loves, loving people who I may never see, but loving them and touching them in a way that is immeasurable. I certainly did not take enough time to treasure this book for what it is. I needed to sit quietly with Outlive Your Life, a blank journal and my Bible. The book includes a Discussion and Action Guide. Much appreciated, I used the guide as a personal study guide. I just wish there had been room set aside for me to jot thoughts in the guide. That being my only downside to the book, I digress...I have a lot of work to do.

Finished Pigs

2010-09-05T14:37:00.000-07:00

Finished the blocks. They turned out very nice. I'm so pleased. And all while the kids were napping. They are sick so I had an extended amount of quiet time. But they are starting to get up and move around, maybe they are starting to feel better. I have to pack up the machine...

I put a plain blue and white gingham print on the back and repeated the blue swirl on the binding on both squares. The pieces are identical in both, I just changed the layout. Made two totally different looks. I love it. Wish I could quilt more but the machine and the pins and the scissors and cutter are too dangerous to have out all the time.

One day...a sewing room :)

Coming Off the Craft Table

2010-09-05T09:41:00.000-07:00

I guess I really don't have a craft table...I should put the kitchen table, and my lap, and my bed, and... anyway, here are some of the projects I have recently completed, or near completion:

Chanson en Crochet is a free pattern from Knitting Daily. There are lots of corrections, so look for errata. I have made a bunch of these, maybe 8 or so. This is the latest.

Granny square afghans...you gotta love 'em. Especially if you crochet. Quick and easy. Used some of grandma's stash that she most generously shared!

Starry Eyes Scarf

Oh, this lovely scarf is a free pattern from Ravelry. I got the lovely yarn from Daily Fiber Yarn Company. I don't know the kind because...I...um...threw away the label :(

Quilting too...yep...I was watching something on tv and saw this block. My goodness, that is pretty. I ran out to the garage and rummaged through my stash and found these prints. I decided to make two opposite blocks. They aren't finished yet. I need to find backings. I have already cut my binding. And I will make two wall hangings. If you get these for Christmas act like you have never seen them before :)

Pigs in a Blanket

Daybook time :)

2010-08-30T05:55:00.000-07:00

On Monday mornings, women all over the internet mark entries on their blog in The Simple Woman's Daybook. It is a time of reflection and projection. A record, of sorts, of the life of a woman-- The Proverbs 31 woman? Maybe. Today's woman? Absolutley! Check out my entry below for Monday, August 30, 2010 and click on the title, it's a link to the Daybook originator and other entries :) Have a wonderfully blessed day!

The Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY

Outside my window...Quiet and still pretty dark for 5:42am.

I am thinking...no matter what...I have the love of God.

I am thankful for...God's provision.

From the kitchen...homemade mayonnaise, zucchini bread, and cookies...not all together ;)

I am wearing...still in my jammies.

I am creating...a scarf for mom.

I am going...Bible study tonight... almost finished with Revelation.

I am reading...well, about to start reading Captured by Grace and finishing up The Shack (finally)

I am remembering...time for God, time for me.

I am hoping...friends and family are safe and blessed.

On my mind...my marriage and how to make it better :)

Noticing that...the closer I get to God the bigger the issue with Satan.

Pondering these words...To weather the storm, I must praise God through it!

Around the house...lots of chores.

One of my favorite things... baby kisses.

Here is a thought I am sharing... Don't let life overwhelm you; choose your stressors carefully!

AMEN.

Monday Night -- French Bread Pizza

2010-08-23T21:12:00.000-07:00

Oh yeah! Another dinner on the cheap. $14.22 served the whole family!!! That's $1.58 each. Take out usually costs us over $30 for pizza plus the tip for the driver.

Two loaves of garlic bread
Jar of pasta sauce
Pepperoni
Mozzarella
Five mushrooms
a little oregano

Build, set the oven to 350 and bake for about 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Add a two liter rootbeer for $1.00!! Woohoo!!

AND...I have half of the cheese, pepperoni, and sauce left over. 1 1/2 hours of work for my bread machine tomorrow and we will have calzones for lunch!

Sunday Evening Dinner on a Dollar

2010-08-22T19:16:00.000-07:00

Today I learned that sometimes what you think you need is far from it and if you are truly living for Christ He will order your steps. AMEN!

Dinner tonight:

Lasagna!!! It turned out so yummy.

1 pound Turkey Italian Sausage
1 red onion, diced
1 large zuccini sliced in rounds
1 can spinach, drained
1 pound mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 can Huntz spaghetti sauce, any variety
1 egg, scrambled
1 1 pound box of lasagna pasta

Start a large pot of salted water to boil.
Brown turkey in a medium sauce pan. Saute onions with sausage. Add spaghetti sauce. Simmer.
Add a little sauce to the egg and scramble vigorously to temper. Add egg to sauce.
Add the pasta to boiling water and cook until al dente, about 10 minutes.
Spray a 9x13x2 inch pan with non-stick cooking spray.
Layer pasta, zuccini, 1/3 sauce, 1/3 cheese, pasta, zuccini, spinach, 1/3 sauce, 1/3 cheese, pasta, 1/3 sauce, 1/3 cheese. (Don't add too much sauce or the lasagna won't set up.)
Bake in a 350 degree oven for about 30-40 minutes to cook zuccini and melt cheese.
Let set for about 5 minutes before cutting. Mine made 12 servings.

Be careful-- the zuccini will be hotter than everything else (they are in there steaming).

On My Loves and Making Money

2010-08-16T06:15:00.000-07:00

I will send off another batch of manuscripts today. I received my first rejection letter last week. I was excited. One "No" gets me that much closer to a "Yes." It's a rite of passage.

My love of writing and my love of children has evolved to another level. Putting what I do orally on paper and asking others if they see the value in my words that I thought I put there. The inspired text? I think so. I hope so. Words with purpose. And now I am desperately trying to transform my words from personal to public, from fun to paid. Not simply for the paycheck, but also for the sharing. Relaying the message that I have, the pieces of wisdom and maybe a little bit of whimsy.

The next project is taking it's place on the keyboard as emails are send with inquiry letters and high hopes.

It is MoNdAy! DAYBOOK time!!

2010-08-09T12:44:00.000-07:00

The Simple Woman's Daybook

It is a beautiful day. Praise the Lord!
Monday, August 9, 2010:

It is Monday! Click on the link to find the official site and join the fun!

The Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY

Outside my window...the sun is shining, there is a sweet breeze, and not a cloud in the sky.

I am thinking...about not much other than catching up after a lazy weekend.

I am thankful for...a loving husband.

From the kitchen...chicken kabobs...mmmm

I am wearing...blue jeans with a belt and a short sleeve black cotton top

I am creating...another afghan for Christmas. Four down...

I am going...to pray, fast, and wait to hear God's instructions

I am reading...I am not reading. Not right now. So sad.

I am remembering...to dedicate some time for God each day. Can't afford to be too busy.

I am hoping...in God.

On my mind...my marriage and how to make it better :)

Noticing that...the closer I get to God the bigger the issue with Satan.

Pondering these words..."pray without ceasing"

Around the house...the children are giving me a moment alone...RARE!!!

One of my favorite things... bare feet.

Here is a thought I am sharing... If you are having a food craving, take a bite and get it over with!

AMEN.

Where is God? by Dr. John Townsend - a book review

2010-08-04T09:19:00.000-07:00

Where is God? by Dr. John Townsend is a book that addresses the omnipresence and sovereignty of God through the hard times in life. Dr. Townsend guides readers to realize God's role in the rough patches of life by revealing His promises in scripture and translating them into our reactions to trouble. Knowing that God is always there and that He handles situations in ways that may not be clear to us on the surface, Dr. Townsend shares insight on God's intentions for us.

It has taken forever for me to muddle through Where is God? The opening was an intriguing near death narrative, but then the author gets stuck on telling stories and writing lists. The style of writing is reminiscent of college work. Lots of repetition to meet the page requirement. I quickly bored of the book and had to force myself to read on.

During my reading I faced some real-life struggles and found the advice and guidance in Where is God? to be a weak consolation that God is still there with me through the tough times.

What Where is God? did do is to what I already knew giving me valid and on-point scripture. I liked the way the chapters are broken down and found the book to be a viable resource when I needed scripture or guidance in a particular characteristic of God and His relationship to me in time of difficulty. Where is God? provided a good starting point. I was able to use the information in my own Bible study and prayer time with God.

I received a free copy of Where is God? to review for Thomas Nielson (Booksneeze.com).

Doodlin' with Friends

2010-08-03T21:57:00.000-07:00

Because I have been scatter-brained and light-headed--because life is a little bit scrambled up--because I need something to occupy me right now--simply because my friend did it and I needed some crayon therapy...

See my friend's blog and her lovely village here

She's the Upsidedown Bee :)

Waiting on a Promise

2010-08-03T08:27:00.000-07:00

Psalm 37:34 Wait on the LORD, and keep his way...

The day ahead is full of promise. Promise from God, promise to self, and promise of possibility. And so I am waiting.

My dog, Rollo, is sitting at my feet staring up the stairs. He is waiting too. In a bit he will hear the sound of children. Slowly. One by one they will get up and move about. He stares up there waiting. There is promise that a child will appear at the top. And to his delight, and theirs, they will make eye contact, the dogs tail wagging ferociously and the child pointing and squealing his name. Promise.

In my waiting I am looking up hopefully too. Maybe a bit less patiently than my dear friend. My soul gets restless as the soul of the human does. Training sets it steady like a hunter, still and ready, yet patient. Movement-- restlessness can bring defeat. But it is in the steady waiting. Quiet. Did I learn this from the dog?

Lamentations 3:25 The LORD is good unto them that wait for Him...

The instructions are clear. The promise is clear. It's just the waiting that is muddy. Relying upon myself to sit and wait on God. I know I can't do it alone. I know I need His help. I pray and talk with Him about my restless nature and I tell Him, like the dear friend that He is that I want to wait. I want the promise. And with humor and lesson to be learned His answer is slow. More waiting. His answer comes quietly. My movement a distraction from the Word He has for me. I miss it. And in angst I seek Him again for the promise.

Has the waiting become long and intense? I feel like it has. I am frustrated and believe that God has forgotten His promise. I know He hasn't. But my mind. Oh, my mind. A spot for the deceiver to slip into my conscious.

So, silly as it may seem, I look to be more like Rollo. Waiting. Waiting. When he gets restless, he lays his head down, but he doesn't move. His ears rise at the slightest sound, but his body is still. I imagine his mind is still too. On task. Just where I need to learn to keep my mind. Steady and unmoving, quiet and patient. Waiting on my promise.

And just then the frame of a small child appears from around the corner. Delight in her voice as she points, Rollo standing and wagging and wiggling. His patience rewarded. The child clamboring down the staircase. Thus I ready my soul and I align my spirit to wait on Him.

Hebrews 6:12 Then, instead of being lazy, you will imitate those who are inheriting the promises through faith and patience.

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-08-02T05:16:00.000-07:00

Though it has been a while since I posted a daybook, I decided that today would be a good day to start back... So here's my entry for today, Monday, August 2, 2010:

It is Monday! Click on the link to find the official site and join the fun!

The Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY

Outside my window...It is dark, anything could be out there.

I am thinking...about those things that I will allow to consume me, because they are good and those things I will not, because I refuse to waste time or energy today.

I am thankful for...a loving husband.

From the kitchen...ginger snap cookies.

I am wearing...my gown.

I am creating...socks if I get a chance today.

I am going...to slow it down just a bit.

I am reading...the book of Revelation, the book of Hosea, Faith in the Night Season by Chuck and Nancy Missler.

I am remembering...to make arrangements today for a school fundraiser.

I am hoping...in God.

On my mind...Dad.

Noticing that...I have peace when I thought I would have pain.

Pondering these words..."fulfill your calling"

Around the house...there needs to be some cleaning but I'm not gonna.

One of my favorite things... first-thing-in-the-morning-quiet.

Here is a thought I am sharing...if you aren't right, get right, because time for the getting may be short.

AMEN.

When Daddy Died

2010-07-31T08:37:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, at approximately 11:30 I got the call that my father was gone. He had a terrible toothache that turned out to be throat cancer. He was treated and underwent a terrible round of radiation. When he returned to the doctor, the cancer was gone. Unfortunately, it wasn't. They found it later, stage 4 in his lungs and his bones. Dad lived only a few weeks after that.

Daddy and me (circ. 1972)

I tell you this...there is nothing more painful, nothing in this world harder than watching and waiting for someone to inevitably pass away. And, as a Christian, there is the inherent guilt that comes from feeling so grief stricken. How can I possibly be a testimony for Christ if it seems that my faith has been shaken like that? The thought comes to me that I should have joy, because my father is going Home to be with the Lord. And here I am dealing with the troubles of the world. But I don't feel like that. I feel horrible that God called him home and I "think" I still need my daddy here. I need to be able to call him and talk to him and tell him about my day and my ideas. I need him to be my fan club like he has been.

I've had wise counsel remind me that the bible says that there is a time for mourning (Eccles. 3:4) and that weeping may last for a night but joy comes in the morning (Ps. 30:5). It's normal, it's natural. It's part of being human...right? And it doesn't mean I'm any less faithful to God. Not at all.

When I got off the phone yesterday I got on my knees and told God "okay" and then I went outside and told my daddy goodbye.

(I wanted to give credit for the lyrics for this song but I couldn't find who wrote it, if you know, please forward that information to me so I can make the appropriate notation)

SOMEBODY PRAYED FOR ME

When my heart was so broken
That I could not pray
When Love wasnt easy to see
Someone was there
Somebody cared
Somebody prayed for me

Somebody went to the Throne of heaven
Somebody lifted my name
Bringing me in to his holy presence
Saying what I couldnt say
Somebody showed me the face of his mercy

When darkness was all I could see
Somebody pleaded the blood of Jesus
Somebody prayed for me

When the Future looked Hopeless
And I’d given up
When I had lost sight of my dreams
Somebody near
Dried every tear
Somebody prayed for me

Somebody went to the Throne of heaven
Somebody lifted my name
Bringing me in to his holy presence
Saying what I couldnt say

Somebody showed me the face of his mercy
When darkness was all I could see
Somebody pleaded the blood of Jesus
Somebody prayed for me

San Diego City College Poetry Reading

2010-07-30T07:41:00.000-07:00

I was in San Diego yesterday speaking in two English classes taught by Farrell Foreman. I had a wonderful time. Some of the students read and I had the opportunity to share my life story and some of my poetry... for that first class, this is for them...

- 205 -
An educational process
that interrupts an otherwise
fantastic day

in the throws of summer vacation.

The room has become a melting pot
of sorts
a united nations of writing talents
...and thought.

Provoked by a big man
with a Fred Sanford-like beard
from Philadelphia.
He's loud

and funny.

He pushes. No body told me
He pushes.
He pushes until you push back
...hard
putting pen to paper
looking into your own soul.

It's summertime
and the other me wants to sit outside
but this me is intrigued
caught up in the discussions of a cockeyed society
and words on paper
and race and politics
invisible lines.

And that's when you feel the
wooden spoon
stir
voices and dialects rising and falling
then sharing
and translating thought to paper--

Forever transformed
by a class
eight weeks
provoked
by a big man
with a Fred Sanford-like beard
from Philadelphia.

the L building

the L building
in a corner room
full
students there to listen
to learn
to eek some piece of something
from the man in front of them
did you sign up for Foreman's class?
and a guest speaker
who would share odd bits of herself

the L building
in a corner room
full
students seated reading
poetry to one another
nervous?
a little
spoken word

trying to impact their grades

with spatterings of eye contact and hand gestures
and facial expressions
an art of sorts

the L building
in a corner room
full
students trying to take notes
extra credit
two pages
the lady, her life, seven kids
twins
poetry
how is this connected--
to the L building?

the L building
in a corner room
full
musings and thoughts
scribbled on paper
thinking about grades
the last weeks of the class
that has lasted too long
already

the L building
in a corner room
full
.

Goings on

2010-07-23T18:30:00.000-07:00

This is my rendition of "free-form" crochet. None of that squiggly stuff for me--oh, no! Even with chaos I need some order :) So, it's just a granny square blanket with various and random stitch changes.

Someone asked me for my website today. I gave them the address and then deflated a little as I haven't been on here blogging. The real world trumps the virtual one. So suffice it to say I have been living life :)
Here's some of the stuff I've been working on...

Cute little hat I was commissioned to make :)


I know it looks like blue ramen noodles. It's really a scarf in the makin'


Another commissioned piece!!

Tuesday Morning

2010-06-16T06:46:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I decided to "build" the porch that I have wanted for the last...oh....7 years. I cleared the area in front of the front window and after hours of digging and "leveling" I laid the bricks for the last time, placed my bistro set in the middle and several plants and rocks around the boarder. Very pretty. So this morning I went out to sit on my porch. I took my coffee and a crochet project and a citronella candle. It sounds nice, but it's not even 60 degrees yet. Needless to say, I'm back in the house. I guess I'll watch the news and wait until it gets just a little warmer :)

The Simple Woman's Daybook

It is Monday! Click on the link to find the official site and join the fun!

The Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY
(June 16, 2010)...

Outside my window...Ha! My PORCH!!!

I am thinking...about...hmmm...nothing really...Just relaxing the mind.

I am thankful for...six children, sleeping peacefully and safe.

From the kitchen...tacos.

I am wearing...a jacket, because even though it will be 90+ today, it is 56 right now.

I am creating...a baby blanket.

I am going...to grocery shop today, we have run out of meat.

I am reading...the book of Revelation, Left Behind (again), and various trade books.

I am remembering...to pay attention to the to-do list.

I am hoping...my Dad is feeling his best today :)

On my mind...the mess at my feet, unfinished work...

Noticing that...my prayers are being answered. Hallelujah!

Pondering these words..."Radical Prayer"

Around the house...I'll get some of the laundry done.

One of my favorite things... words.

Here is a thought I am sharing...if you don't; someone will.

The Weekend

2010-05-02T07:15:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I went to a "fiber farm". http://namastefarms.com/ A girlfriend and I. I needed some time to do womanly things with a woman who enjoys my company and I hers. We stopped for coffee on the way and enjoyed the morning together. I had the kids by myself while DH was watching the fight with friends and the big kids were off doing what big kids do. I gave everyone a bath and sat back to relax a bit. Refresh...

Today I got up early to get the Children's Church lesson together. They will be learning about Job. A lesson in patience and endurance and trusting in the faithfulness of God. I think it's as much a lesson for me as it is for them. Patience. Endurance. Knowing that no matter what goes on in my life that God has not left me. There are things that I must go through. And there is reward and favor found in my going through...I'll teach the lesson and listen closely.

Later, it's youth day at a church that we will visit. The teens are excited about it in the way that teens get excited about stuff. Kind of a passive, yeah that's cool kind of excitement.

My sis-in-law started my weekend off early on Thursday. She invited me to go to her daughter's open house at school. They had vendor booths, and she rented one. I took crochet items, poetry books and handcrafted note cards. It was COLD! But it was nice to spend the time with her. Before we parted she said that this is the Year of Jubilee!! Yes! I admonished the two of us to live in our Jubilee and be thankful and not complain. So far, so good. I believe it, I accept the gifts from God, and I will not complain. If you catch me...stop me!

Be blessed,
Ging

What?!

2010-04-17T23:21:00.000-07:00

You come to me
Full of the nay-sayin'
words of
negative-isms
because you have decided that
I'm just too busy
What?!
Yeah, I've been incredibly busy
Time consumed in those things
voluntary and volunteered
all with a joyful heart
I've come to see that my God
guides me
He leads me to the things that
bring me joy
comfort my soul
But
not for me
not to my benefit
But to bring Him all
the glory
the praise
and the thanksgiving
I do it all and take on more
because
well
because
I love to do what
He has given me to do

--It has been a dream
to do what I love
It is all the sweeter
to do it for God

Housewarming Throw Pattern

2010-03-25T05:51:00.000-07:00

My Sister-in-Law was having a housewarming party and, short on time I found some lovely Red Heart and put together this quick throw.

5 skeins Red Heart Super Saver Multi (I used color 0981 Fall) 244 yards each
Size H hook

Finished size: Approximately 38"x54"

V-stitch: Dc, ch1, dc in designated stitch or space

Ch 124

Row 1. V-stitch in 5th ch from hook. [Sk 2 ch, v-stitch] across, dc in last st. Ch3, turn.

Row 2. V-stitch in the ch1 space of the v-stitch in the row below, across. DC in top of the skipped ch4. Ch 3, turn.

Row 3-6. Repeat in V-stich

Row 7-8. Hdc in each st and ch sp across.

(Pattern: 6 rows of V-stitch, 2 rows of hdc)

Repeat in pattern for 9 repetitions. Finish with 1 row of sc.

Marmalade and Strawberry Preserves

2010-03-25T05:24:00.000-07:00

So...I revisited the marmalade and it turned out perfectly. I did everything the same, I just didn't cook it into candy :)

Then I decided to make some strawberry preserves! YUM! Turned out perfect the first time...

4 pints fresh strawberries
3 cups sugar
1 cup water
1T apple cider vinegar

Dice the strawberries and add everything to a large pot. Cook on medium - medium high heat, stirring constantly and maintaining a low boil. My batch took just a little over an hour. When everything has reduced almost in half, has thickened up and holds together on a spoon you are ready to can. Skim the foam at this point, if you want--I don't bother. Add boiling hot preserves to clean, HOT jelly jars, (mine fit in two quart jars) clean rims and seal. Turn jars over until cool.

Orange Marmalade

2010-03-18T07:26:00.000-07:00

I think that watching Food Network is bad for my health...and the kids'! Last night we watched Bobby Flay's Throwdown. He was up against a lady from TN I think. They were making biscuits and jam. My 6 year old sat with me and asked me to make that for breakfast.

Well, I think I have honed my biscuit recipe the way that I like it so this morning bright and early here I am in the kitchen measuring flour and baking powder... I added too much salt and margarine just isn't working like butter would. But nonetheless I get those biscuits in the oven and I think about the half jar of preserves from the store in the fridge. I think about the amass of oranges in the fridge and decide that it shouldn't take too long to make marmalade. Right?

Well, I cut up a few oranges and add sugar to the pot and here we go. I get it to the perfect gel and then decide that I am going to give some to a friend, so I better can it properly.

Hmm...where are the lids?

I find the jars, wash them and set a pot to boil. I think I only have about three jars worth. But now my marmalade has cooled. I need it hot. So I turn the burner back on...bad idea. The whole pot crystallized! So now I have two jars of orange candy! Not what I wanted.

I will not be defeated by a few sugar crystals. This afternoon I'll try again. We will have marmalade if it kills me!

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-03-15T08:51:00.000-07:00

It is Monday! Click on the link to find the official site and join the fun!

The Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY
(February 3, 2010)...

Outside my window...a beautiful day that God made

I am thinking...about knocking out my chores and some work so I can get outside

I am thankful for...all of God's blessings on my life. Sometimes they are easily overlooked.

From the kitchen...dirty dishes and the makin's for chocolate cookies :)

I am wearing...pink and white striped tee, blue jeans, and pink and white sneakers

I am creating...a throw for my Sister in Law's new digs and a shawl for a friend's birthday

I am going...to have to make a call to change the kids dentist today

I am reading...the book of Revelation.

I am remembering...God's promises for me

I am hoping...my Dad is feeling his best today :)

On my mind...family

Noticing that...I haven't exercised with consistency for a while. I need to get busy

Pondering these words..."let it go"

Around the house...what I can't do today can wait until tomorrow. Unless they have sent the final, final notice for shut off. Then if I can't do it today I will do it in the dark tomorrow.

One of my favorite things...Springtime!

Here is a thought I am sharing...teach someone else a thing that gives you joy

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-02-03T20:31:00.000-08:00

Okay...so I didn't do this on Monday. Tuesday either. It should be called The Busy Woman's Daybook! Click on the link to find the official site and join the fun!

The Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY
(February 3, 2010)...

Outside my window...a nice, clean SUV - INSIDE and OUT!

I am thinking...that I really need to find some quiet time for myself.

I am thankful for...the roof over my head, even though it leaks; the food in the kitchen, even though it's not fancy; the clothes on my back, even though they aren't new; my husband, even though he's not perfect (me either); the kids, even though they have taken over my life (what a joy)

From the kitchen...chicken legs defrosting

I am wearing...blue top, blue sweats and white socks

I am creating...the last round on an afghan for All Shades of Pink

I am going...to find someone who can't wait to publish my children's book!

I am reading...the book of Daniel.

I am remembering...that I have some unfinished assignments and I'm starting to feel a bit guilty

I am hoping...my Dad is feeling his best today :)

On my mind...the book that I just finished - "The Secret Keeper's Daughter"

Noticing that...there is a calm in my house.

Pondering these words..."my children must obey me"

Around the house...I am cleaning up, clearing out and closing down

One of my favorite things...watching my kids enjoy the food I have prepared for them.

Here is a thought I am sharing...We are all a little crazy; the one's who are sane, know it.

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-01-26T05:40:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was a really hard day for me, mentally. I spent a good amount of time on the phone with difficult people and difficult situations. It's a shame that large companies get away with what they do... Anyway, here's my daybook entry for this week. It will reflect my life this morning :)

The Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY
(January 26, 2010)...

Outside my window...There can be nothing but peace. God promised me peace, so today, before I go out into the world to face whatever comes at me, I claim peace!

I am thinking...about the chores I have to complete today, how I will do everything and the time that I promise myself for today.

I am thankful for...God's unfailing love and grace.

From the kitchen...A LARGE stack of dishes.

I am wearing...dirty jeans and a scrubs top. My favorite, handmade slippers :)

I am creating...a clean and comfortable space for my family and me

I am going...in sanity. Wherever I go. I will not let the world make me crazy.

I am reading...to prepare for Sunday morning.

I am remembering...my father in his strength.

I am hoping...that this season comes to an end soon, that I can realize the growth that has taken place, and I can move on to that next level.

On my mind...the kid's school projects and how we will complete them.

Noticing that...it hasn't rained in several days.

Pondering these words...second chances.

Around the house...lots to do. Today this is my challenge. It will be my success.

One of my favorite things...a clean car, inside and out

Here is a thought I am sharing...use a thesaurus and expand your vocabulary.

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-01-18T20:26:00.000-08:00

The Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY
(January 18, 2010)...

Outside my window... it has been raining most of the day. I sent the dog out in it and went to brush my teeth. When I returned he was outside the window, trying to sit in the bit of cover from the elements very close to the house.

I am thinking...though it is late, my six year old is watching a superhero movie, and maybe I should let him watch it instead of enforcing his bed time.

I am thankful for...being diligent enough to complete an unfinished project.

From the kitchen...half of a cake from the grocery store. All the dishes are done, so I eat a slice from my fingertips.

I am wearing...permanently stained khakis, a purple shirt and my new cozy green fleece jacket.

I am creating...something new this week. I have some scrumptious yarns waiting on me patiently.

I am going...to find a warm and comfy spot. It's been a long day.

I am reading..."Trading Dreams at Midnight" by Dianne McKinney-Whetstone...slowly.

I am remembering...what is was like to struggle with memorizing math facts as I forced my kids to cram this weekend.

I am hoping...that there is nothing that can stop my children from achieving all that they dream.

On my mind...positive thoughts and simple, positive things.

Noticing that...stress can only be inside of me if I let it.

Pondering these words...I must be doing good if bad thinks I'm worth the trouble.

Around the house...the noises are much too loud this late in the evening.

One of my favorite things...is being in the car, alone, driving to or from some activity that was just for me.

Here is a thought I am sharing...thinking about working out doesn't burn any calories.

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-01-12T05:55:00.000-08:00

I was fortunate enough this morning to come across "The Simple Woman's Daybook" (Click on the link to see more) via my friend at Upsidedownbee.blogspot.com. I came to the computer looking for something this morning and I think this is what the Lord led me to. It certainly touched me the way I needed :)

The Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY
(January 12, 2010)...
Outside my window... it is cool, crisp and dark. The amber glow from the streetlight is peeking through the blinds behind me
I am thinking...how can I praise when my mind is full of doubt?
I am thankful for...the little ways God whispers to me that He is with me.
From the kitchen...radiates the voice of the newscaster warning of pedofiles and impending rain.
I am wearing...my jammies, my housecoat, and my crochet slippers.
I am creating...a baby hat, orange with blue stripes.
I am going...out today to take the kids back to school after a three week vacation and then back to get my home in order.
I am reading...Daniel and learning how important it is to stand up for what you believe in, no matter what and "Trading Dreams at Midnight" by Diane McKinney-Whetstone, because...well, I just haven't been reading.
I am remembering...that one of God's promises is that no weapon formed against me shall prosper.
I am hoping...that the day is gentle and kind to my husband

On my mind...I am focusing on staying on task

Noticing that...what I allow into my mind tends to try to remain there

Pondering these words...Praise Him
Around the house...I am clearing out. I am tired of all the things that I accummulate day to day.
One of my favorite things...is sitting outside on a warm day just enjoying fresh air, sweet sounds, and peace
Here is a thought I am sharing...I will tuck away a blank page in the envelope of time for today to doodle pink and orange swirls.

Jesus Lives book review

2009-12-09T06:13:00.000-08:00

There is a lot to say about this cute, little book. Jesus Lives, by Sarah Young is a wonderfully written devotional that affirms Jesus' love, power and wisdom on a very personal level which affected my prayer and praise life.

When I first received the book I was surprised at it's size. It fits neatly in my purse and glove compartment. That certainly makes it easy to have with me all the time. I opened the cover, read the introduction and started right in on the first devotion. I was delighted to read a message to me, just as if Jesus were sending me a note! I love it. Definitely rooted in the Word, and noting scripture that certainly affirmed to Sarah Young, that this is what Jesus would say to me in this certain season of my life, or my day, this book is wonderful. I love the feeling that I got from the simulated conversations I was having with Jesus. Is this how He would, if He wrote me letters and notes of encouragement? I was encouraged to talk with Him.

Just yesterday, a friend and I were talking about how we always look at things from our perspective and it seems that God just hasn't done a work for us, but we must try to look through His eyes so we can see and appreciate that He is always working in our lives. Jesus Lives gives insight on Jesus' viewpoint. It shows me that He is aware of what I go through. It shows me His undying love for me.

Jesus Lives is not a calendar type devotional. There is a table of contents separated by theme. For example, some of the themes are His love, Peace, Pleasing Him, and Prayer. I found that opening the book and reading the first thing I turned to was just as fulfilling and rewarding as looking for a specific theme. The words are encouraging and uplifting. The words are full of love and compassion. I highly recommend this book in your walk with Christ.

Black Friday

2009-11-27T05:52:00.000-08:00

Here we are. Less than 30 days until Christmas and people are losing their minds. At the stores before they have digested dinner. Bundled up and standing in line before they have truly reflected on those things for which we offer thanks. It is a sad circumstance that I see.

As I snuggled up to my husband last night after a wonderful time with friends and family we watched an episode of CSI. But there seemed to be an unusual amount of commercials. No previews of upcoming shows, oh no, just sales. Doors opening at 10, 11, 12, 1, 2, 3! So those that make their living off of the willingness of the rest of us to spend our hard earned money...and it is, very hard earned right now...to go into debt so that we can indulge ourselves.

I guess, for today, we will forget about the past due notices and our mortgages that we have so desperately fought with the banks over, and we will shop. Like fools on vacation. Spending money we don't have on things that we don't need because, of course, they are DISCOUNTED!!! CHEAP, CHEAP, CHEAP!!! And as the day draws on, we will dress our homes with colored lights and lawn ornaments, we will play Christmas caroles and drink egg nog. We will.

We will celebrate this season as if she were well earned and long awaited. And in January we will reflect on our gluttony, and be filled with remorse...I hope.

Today's Poetic Asides November PAD prompt

2009-11-21T07:48:00.001-08:00

I made up in my mind
Who you would be
Those things that you would like
What you would say
To me
Words of wisdom
Profound
All the time
I decided for you the attitude
Most fitting
Appropriate
And adjusting to my whims
Tone and diction
Verbage and accent
I thought up the personna
The things about you that would
Best compliment
The outfits that I wore
The ways that I style my hair
The color of my shoes
I did all that
Before I realized
How to accept you

There Just Aren't Enough Hours

2009-11-21T07:24:00.000-08:00

Seems that the more I do the more time there is to do it. I know that sounds ridiculous. But that affords me the time to procrastinate. Right? Then I run out of time... Now I find myself in the wee hours of every morning trying to do those things that I found that there just weren't enough hours for the day before... maybe, on second thought, I just need medicaiton.

Nonetheless, I have been neglecting my daily and weekly writing prompts...and Lord knows I need those in order to maintain some of my sanity. Catching up on my friend's blog (Upsidedownbee.blogspot.com), I found the 5th Grade 5 Word monologue words inspiring. Forgiveness, though most oftentimes something that is given, sometimes needs to be a gift to self. Here goes:

Brokenness, morally, careening, anarchy, and brazenness

The brazenness I felt that morning could have been the cause of my abruptness. Short and harsh. Blunt and piercing, I winced as the words danced off my lips. There was no turning back. I felt myself careening out of control as I succummed to my attitude fearing that the damage was already done. So why not just go ahead and finish speaking my mind? And when I had said my peace--when I had exhausted the battery of words that I flung forth I noticed the brokenness that was left in my midst. Spouting off in some uncontrolled anarchy I wondered at what I had done. I wondered if the wounds left by my tongue...this vipers tongue... would ever heal. Morally wounded myself, I pained at the damage, kicking about the remnants at my feet. I stooped and slowly gathered up the pieces. And with tears like glue and words of healing and repentance I offered back all that had been the result of my malady.

Craving Nonchalant Daub Admit Indignant

2009-11-07T06:54:00.000-08:00

Craving
Nonchalant
Daub
Admit
Indignant

Using a Triolet . I will attempt this weeks 5 word monologue. Here's the format:

A   
      B
      a   -  Rhymes with 1st line.
      A   - Identical to 1st line.   
      a   -  Rhymes with 1st line.
      b   -  Rhymes with 2nd line.
      A   - Identical to 1st line.
      B   - Identical to 2nd line.

Southern Grits

Indignant, you attempt to walk past
A nonchalant banter across the room
The craving in your heart to make me last
Indignant, you attempt to walk past
You'd admit your loathing by moving fast
Daub of red cheeks signals impending doom

Indignant, you attempt to walk past
A nonchalant banter across the room

Whew! Okay, that form isn't hard, but doing it with the five words is. That was fun...

Covered

2009-11-07T06:18:00.000-08:00

I must tell you that
it is the anomaly of my faith
that leads to the understanding
that leads to grateful acceptance
even though the humanity of me
driving me
and giving me
misguided purpose
leads me to confusion and loss.
I must explain that
it is the heartbeat of the
divine design
that is the covering
by the blood
that gives me hope
and life.

Baby Quilt

2009-11-05T16:34:00.000-08:00

Oh the grief my sewing machine gave me on this one. In the end I discovered that my machine really doesn't quilt, I need special attachments. However, with agressive dilligence I finished it!

Marriage

2009-11-05T16:15:00.000-08:00

Out of oneself
slowly
leaving behind
that something
that identifies
joining
becoming
part of
another
growing together
one mind
one body
fingers
hands
skin
heart
hope
spirit
one being
grown together

Maybe?

2009-11-04T14:17:00.000-08:00

Maybe--
I answer the children
lifting my voice at the end
a question or an answer
depends on how they take it
more than what I mean
because
what I mean is
I really don't know
I haven't made up my mind yet
an adult's mind moves slower
or more carefully
or something
I just need a minute to mull it over
and make a wise decision
I don't want to say no
or yes
really
So, short of not answering at all
I tell them
maybe
and hope that maybe will suffice

Take Your Best Shot by Austin Gutwein - Book Review

2009-11-04T05:49:00.000-08:00

No sooner had I put Take Your Best Shot down my, "I don't like to read," 16 year old daughter picked it up. The book is an inspiration to step up and do what God has given you the gifts to do and to make a difference, if not for the entire world, for someone's entire world. Take Your Best Shot is an easy read, with the familiar voice of a young person. But youth does not stop Austin Gutwein from sharing wisdom beyond his years. And, sharing is what this book does best. It certainly isn't a book that lectures you into submission, rather it engages the reader in conversation and interaction, deep thoughts and contemplation. There are places in the book to jot down notes, and Austin encourages his reader to mark the book up with thoughts and notes. I wanted to, but a few pages into Take Your Best Shot I knew that I was going to share this book with my two teenagers and I did not want mom's thoughts to interfere with the personal discovery and growth I know this book will inspire. I definately recommend this book to EVERYONE, of every age and every stage of life. If you have never looked at how you can impact the world, see the world through Austin's eyes and discover something wonderful about yourself!

Left

2009-11-03T10:25:00.000-08:00

She watched the car drive away
kicking dust and gravel back
into her eyes and her skin,
her bare arms no match for limestone gravel.
She winced, but couldn't deflect--
just stood in the road
watching the cloud of dust
following the old, green Buick
grow smaller.
The grumbling sounds of the engine finallly
dissipating into the wind
and drown out by the singing of
little brown birds.

(This poem is in response to a promt from readwritepoem.org )

November Poem A Day (PAD) Challenge

2009-11-03T08:46:00.000-08:00

So, though I haven't posted in a while, I have been writing, crocheting, and quilting. And...I just started, be it, two days late, the Poetic Asides November Chap Book Challenge. Here's my first three poems!

House Hunters

Deep in California Suburbia
combing through the pages of a well used street map
alert and adept at eyeing street signs at great distances.
A stack of floor plans and price lists stacked neatly on the seat
listings printed off the internet
and glossy cards announcing who works for whom.
Builders credentials and an uncanny ability to notice the
slightest defects in workmanship.
Wondering about rooftops and Spanish tiled floors.
From one door to the next
the scent of newness
Glue and carpet fibers, fresh paint.
Kitchenettes and Nooks beginning to melt together in the mind's eye
walls closing in and opening up
Great Rooms made stately examples of prominence and stature
Guest Rooms set aside for in-laws and boomerang children
Chasing prices through neighborhoods
as checks are written and mailed each month
The trek
only a practice run
through quiet, California Suburbia

Passengers

I hate riding in the back seat
where there is no control
over the direction, the radio, or the heat.
Leaning forward to talk into the backs
of heads and uninvited to the conversation
directed toward the winshield.
Unashamedly the place reserved for children
or bags of groceries or the family dog.
A vile place to be
when riding as a party of three
to find oneself stuck riding in the back seat.

It's Electric

My husband
bless his heart
has begun to ground himself
before reaching over to kiss me
Saving himself
the torture of the spark
loud and persistent
that smacks his lips
and brings water to his eye
as he tries to greet me
at the end of his work day
A violent response
of a positive - negative reaction
that I argue
is my electric magnetism

Exhale

2009-10-10T23:46:00.000-07:00

You exhale
Loudly
The signal
That you have something to say
But you aren't going to say it
And I don't ask
So
You exhale
Blowing out air
From the recesses of your lungs
As if you were running a race
And trying to catch your breath
I glance
You stare
Forward
And I don't ask
Because you want me to?
I think I'm just supposed to know
That's why you just
Exhale
Loudly
Because it's my fault that there is something
Heavy on your mind
And on mine
Air escaping in exasperation
With one
Or both of us
Maybe you have something to say
You just won't say it
And I won't ask

Skin

2009-10-10T23:09:00.000-07:00

When I think about her
my skin rises up
like prickly heat
of children
on summer days
My face is warm
but my ears are red hot
this is how I know
what is dear
inside my heart
is on my sleeve
And I brush at it
to smooth away the evidence
of the chills that run
through my body
and seep out of my skin

Time's Not Soaring

2009-10-07T06:02:00.001-07:00

I often find myself, at the end of the day, having run out of time. It never seems to soar for me. Just this incessant flapping and jerking back and forth over choppy skies. Is it me who fills my hours full of business and responsibility? I can blame my husband and the kids because they don't do what I want them to do so that I can do what I want to. Or I can, instead of completing the chores, stew until they come home from school then rant and rave and lose my mind because then there isn't enough time to finish all the things that I failed to do when I had the time and wasted it thinking about how I would make them all do it. Then they don't do it the way I want it done, the way I need it done, the way I obsess... And I still have to do them. And the more I stress, the less the children stress, and my husband will simply leave the room. So maybe one day, when the children are all grown and my husband is away on some fishing trip in the throws of his retirement I will feel the wind underneath me, pushing me up and over my stuff. And I'll find some extra time.

Fun with the five

2009-10-05T07:20:00.000-07:00

Okay, so last weeks five word monologue is late...I guess I'll lose points, but better late than never. And, of course, to spice things up a bit, a clerihew

The words are: Pulverize, Cauldron, Forfeit, Sovereign, Shoals

A witch beside her cauldron fat
A sovereign soul is such as that
Some toad to pulverize and boil
To forfeit life for her mean toil

The toad inside the shoals had sat
His stature short and stoutly fat
But that witch was on the prowl
If not her, surely an owl

Book Review: "Voices of the Faithful"

2009-10-02T06:17:00.000-07:00

Oh....I just can't say enough good things about this book. When I received it, my first thought was, "how pretty. It's such a pretty book." Ha! That's not even a fraction of what this book has to offer those who have devoted their lives to missionary work abroad, missionary work here at home, and simply to Christ!

"Voices of the Faithful" is a daily devotional. Each page represents one day. The first element is related scripture, then a short story and thoughts of a missionary somewhere in the world, and a short prayer.

The missionaries are regular, everyday people just like me. Mothers and fathers, husbands and wives, friends and neighbors. They balance their family with their calling. They understand on an awesome, seein'-God's-face kind of level what their calling is, they have followed His voice and they love what they do. It is so obvious in their words. I was impressed with the dedication and devotion these missionaries have to their calling, the sacrifices they make and their perception of their purpose. I enjoyed the chronicaling of daily life and the message brought forth through simple daily living. Some entries are trials, some are not, some are revelations, all are poignant in the life of a Christian. Each devotion is followed by a short prayer focusing on the lesson learned and as is the theme of the entire book, guided prayer for missionaries all over the world.

This book is a perfect daily reminder of whose we are and why we are.

New Outlook

2009-10-02T05:43:00.000-07:00

The skin of my blog, though adorable, was not working properly. So here I have changed it to one of the preset templates. I hope this works just fine...

TOUCH (a Sevenling poem)

2009-09-30T09:10:00.000-07:00

Hmmm...I have been introduced to a new style: the Sevenling
So in a loose translation of the style, an in combination with the Wednesday poetry prompt on Poetic Asides, here is my poem

TOUCH

There,
fingertips touch
navel, fingers, and toes

His fingers,
her fingers,
their bodies.

Mother and child

Oh, those five...

2009-09-30T08:52:00.000-07:00

The five for this week are: Besotted, Eavesdrop, Vein, Receipt, Piecemeal
The style I have chosen for this week: epistle

Dear Father,

I did not mean to eavesdrop
into your life. The part of
you that you have declared
is none of my business. I did
not mean to see you
besotted by that which
you have decided be a permanent
part of your body
moving piecemeal through vein and artery
and soul. Who is in receipt of your
illness? Who bares the guilt and
foots the bill? I'm sorry
that I stood behind the door
watching. Doing nothing.
I should have been in your face.

Book Review: "A Million Miles in a Thousand Years" by Donald Miller

2009-09-29T06:55:00.000-07:00

If I had to describe "A Million Miles in a Thousand Years" in a sentence, I would say that this is a light-hearted, laid-back memoir written to inspire and encourage the twenty-something set filled with modern day proverbs and a refreshing outlook on life. "A Million Miles..." settles comfortably into the time in a person's life between adulthood and childhood, trying to fit in and know that you are okay is hard while it speaks to those of us who have been there and done that, maybe to see where we have been as average, giving us permission to look at our lives and pull out what was really important.

We are bombarded with the inflated images that the media portrays as real, commonplace, and normal. Donald Miller reeks of normalcy that we can see and touch, showing that life is so much more simple and sanguine compared to a movie. He shows the reader the jewels of living. In one chapter Miller describes bonding as something that is made stronger through conflict. And it's not just big pain that binds. It's any sort of conflict. It's any sort of common purpose being arrived at through a tough middle that brings people together.

While reading this book I took time to reflect on my own life and my own writing. ...a story, Miller writes, is based on what people think is important, so when we live a story, we are telling the people around us what we think is important.

The only negative comment I have about this book is the laid-back tone. It took several chapters for me to get past language that didn't transcend into my age bracket. Maybe I'm just getting older...

Nonetheless, I highly recommend this easy read. Miller gets five stars from me!

Am I THAT Woman?

2009-09-23T09:50:00.000-07:00

As we studied, yesterday, the Proverbs 31 woman...you remember her-- the Virtuous Woman, the perfect woman... I started to self-analyze. Maybe reflecting on the things that I do. The things that I say. Because, I have tried to measure up to her. The woman that I saw in my own grandmother. Cooking and cleaning and sewing, mending, caring for her children and her husband, serving in the church, hot meals and clean restrooms, teaching Sunday School and carting children, her own grandchildren, and others' to and from. She prayed with the women and sat on the front row. She affirmed the Pastor's words with her own, shaking her handkerchief at him with a little hoot or howl and a hearty AMEN!

I recognized my own attempts to be all things to all people. Maybe because I thought that was what grandma did, certainly because I thought that's what that Proverbs 31 woman did. Everyone that touched me, I vowed would be affected by me. I would spread God's love through my actions. Then someone would be guilty of some transgression against me and I would lash out and forget who and what I was but I would assuredly be redeemed through my actions. Right?

But it was yesterday or maybe the day before in preparation for the lesson that I heard God's voice explain to me that it is not the actions of that woman that I am to emulate, it is the heart and the spirit and the attitude of that woman that I should hold in deference. I need a mind of servitude and a heart for it. I should do because that is who I am, not because that is how I think I should be. So, with a different outlook I took on the day. Serving, as my heart sings, my husband and my children. Serving not out of obligation or title, but simply out of love. Out of Love.

What a revelation to understand that He did, not because of who He is, but because of who I am, and His love for little ol' me!

Room Number One

2009-09-23T08:13:00.000-07:00

In response to the poetry prompt for today on PoeticAsides.com here is my attempt at a disaster poem. Maybe it was supposed to be a natural disaster, which would be fitting of the wildfires in Southern California, but this was so much more fun...enjoy!

Room Number One

It was a catastrophe
A disaster my friend
The first day of school
Was about to begin

With tears in her eyes
And a lump in her throat
In one hand her lunchbox
The other, her coat

She looked at the room
Decorated just so
She loved it but still
Did not want Mommy to go

She noticed the others
Clinging to legs
Offered fine bribery
Of bright colored pegs

But not one was moved
Or pried from their place
Looks of despair
On each little face

And as parents slid out
Late to their jobs
From room number one
Came a chorus of sobs

Revelations

2009-09-20T08:20:00.000-07:00

This is what I have learned this week:

1. Rest and sleep are NOT synonomous

2. If I neglect my vegetable garden it will surely die...quickly; my rosebush will thrive on ongoing abuse and produce more robust flowers

3. Sweating is most profuse when you straighten your hair

4. The savings you realize while shopping at a discount store is thwarted by the anxiety of bagging your own groceries while the checker and other customers wait for you to clear the conveyor belt

5. Six year old flag football boys do not understand how to bust THROUGH the half-time banner

6. Kindergarteners and First Graders NEED a snack EVERY day!!!

7. Kindergarteners and First Graders NEED a nap EVERY day!!!

8. Interpreting toddler's wants is the first line of defense against screaming

9. Moms don't get vacation weeks

10. When someone notices that you've lost some weight, your response should be "thanks, I've been working out", not a crazed "oh yeah, all I've eaten today is Teddy Grahams and a juice box"

5 words and a villanelle

2009-09-18T10:17:00.000-07:00

Looking Back (a villanelle)

It was their past that would foreshadow their future.
Gazing into each others eyes
they knew they survived in spite of an ominous history.

The pain at times was just too much.
Lives relived through a series of deja vu.
It was their past that would foreshadow their future,

but they hadn't realized it then.
So they grasped at any hint of spontaneity in all that they did.
They knew they survived in spite of an ominous history.

At times she would look away,
avert her eyes as if he were simply the next door neighbor, but
it was their past that would foreshadow their future,

and he lived it as such. His pilgrimage to town for work each day
and home each evening to dine like strangers.
They knew they survived in spite of an ominous history,

each one afraid to change what had become of them.
It was their past that would foreshadow their future;
they knew they survived in spite of an ominous history.

(This is my entry for this weeks 5 Word Challenge from upsidedownbee.blogspot.com. I decided to pump it up a notch by using the poetic form villanelle. The five words for this week are: Ominous, Pilgrims, Neighbor, Spontaneity, and Foreshadow.)

I'm not going to make pancakes this morning

2009-09-16T06:03:00.000-07:00

I'm not going to make pancakes or oatmeal or fluffy scrambled eggs.I don't want to wash dishes or fold laundry.

It is three minutes to six and the week has been crazy, the house is looking crazy, I am feeling crazy. I woke the kids already but they must have put me on snooze. I would wait until the very last minute and make them run around like maniacs, but they won't. They only have one speed--I'm coming. It doesn't matter if we are early or running late. I threaten and hollar, but the result is still the same--I'm coming. So in response, I'm pouring bowls of cold cereal and the dishes and laundry will just have to wait.

I think I'll fix myself a cup of coffee.

What's Goin' On?

2009-09-14T09:56:00.000-07:00

I notice around me-- everything marked with a nice pink ribbon. We have come to this place where ribbons identify causes, red, blue, pink, rainbow, purple, black, yellow. You know without asking what a person holds dear, what is close to their heart, that "thing" that has impacted their life, or maybe the thing they fear may impact their life. Could be the prerequisite for the mindset to fend off cancer or mental illness. The trophy of overcoming the challenge or the anger with which we accept that which was taken away. The inability to fight with the practical, fighting with dollars, your receipt the symbol that you carry. So that everyone is aware. Lest we forget. And in October, for 30 days we walk and run, we pray and cry, we fight and win and proudly wear our pink ribbons.

The Wedding Day

2009-09-04T12:59:00.000-07:00

I hadn't considered all the possible circumstances. I hadn't thought it might be over 100 degrees outside that day. Sweating profusely through layers of lotions, baby powder and taffeta I peeled locks of hair from my face. I stood as gracefully as one could with perspiration dripping down the backs of my knees. The minister paused as a zephyr floated overhead, snickers and laughter rising from overheated guests. I closed my eyes and reminisced of the long engagement; "time enough to plan a grand gala on the beach," I had boasted. But the day had come with a fury unknown to this part of the country. "A heat wave, out of season," the newscaster declared. I glanced across at my poor mother, trying to make the best of the situation. One of the ushers brought her a glass of water. Listening to the hum of the blimp overhead I watched condensation drip little round stains on my mother's silk dress.

(Here's the words: Graceful Engagement Zephyr Profusely Condensation)

Sometimes

2009-09-01T05:23:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, I am learning,
you have to step away from
those things that bring you comfort.
You have to move yourself into
a circle of people
who you don't know
and you appear invisible to.
And you have to raise your voice
because,
really,
what you have to say
is just that important.
It is just that urgent,
that if you don't...
your comfort zone will become
very uncomfortable.

Abuelita

2009-08-29T09:06:00.000-07:00

(This is a monologue in response to the 5 Word Monologue Challenge posted on Upsidedownbee.blogspot.com. The words for this challenge are: translator, mercy, guile, hibernation, updating)

It felt like I had been asleep for ages. A hibernation of sorts that in reality lasted merely one scant hour. I hadn't realized how tired I was.

It may have been the hours on the road or the impending ice storm that caused me, finally to pull to the side and close my eyes. I realized that the last 50 miles were traveled by God's mercy alone. I could not recall passing through the last small town just north of the border, or crossing over into the valley.

Three days with Abuelita had worn my nerves paper thin and heightened the cause to leave that afternoon. I hadn't slept and my bowels were twisted with the delicacies that frequented their dinner plates. The translator sent by the Embassy proved to be less than adequate for my needs. Abuelita's broken, foraged, and twisted version of French, Spanish, and German served her well in the melting pot of her little village propped vicariously on the side of a cliff overlooking the sea. The communal had their own language, some sanguine mixture.

There may have been some conspiracy in determining that I would be the one to travel by car, 800 miles, into the desolation in which the village rested, to the daunting task of updating Abuelita on the death of her son. It may have been the foreknowledge of her disposition and attitude with which I would be met. Or it could have been her history of spitting at distasteful news that prevented anyone else from volunteering to go to dear Abuelita in this time of sorrow.

Whatever the reason, I knew when sour smelling spittle dotted my face and shirt that this would be the only time I would make this trip. It would be the last time I ever saw Abuelita. With guile in my heart I tossed my bag into the front seat of my car, dusted the gravel and any remnants of my visit from my feet and drove away. I didn't say goodbye, I didn't look back.

Book Review: "The Noticer" by Andy Andrews

2009-08-29T07:47:00.000-07:00

"Seeing the world through rose colored glasses" may be the parallel to this wonderful book by Andy Andrews. How you see your world, how you live your life, and the joy and satisfaction you get from it... how to change your life is all a matter of changing your perspective.

This wonderful story is told by Andy and chronicles the visits of an old man named Jones to a small town near the sea and the lives that he touches. With a strong base in Christianity The Noticer is not in-your-face, Bible-thumping preaching. A short, quick read that would be a wonderful gift for the believing and unbelieving friend. I see this as a wonderful missionary tool.

I don't usually like to mark my books, but while I was reading I found myself holding onto a pen. I have underlined quotes and noted thoughts in the margins. The book is very thought provoking and for me, I just wanted to be able to find those little jewels again quickly. My favorite: "What you focus on will increase." I've shared that quote with a friend and it opened an awesome conversation about how we need to focus on the positive things in our lives (perspective) and how we must focus on God in praise and prayer, making Him bigger than all of the annoyances of life.

And there's a bonus! At the end of the book there is a reader's guide. Lots of thought provoking questions, broken down by chapter. Perfect for personal use or for a book club, or even for homeschooling. I found that the questions helped me to get a little deeper. Some of the questions took me back to the thoughts and feelings I had while reading the book, causing me to reflect and really dig into my own understanding.

I very highly recommend this book. It will change your life. It will change your outlook.

Unintended

2009-08-27T05:43:00.000-07:00

I was there by mistake
People not aware
Paperwork left un-managed
Put me where
I wasn't supposed to be

I stood around and waited
But they still could not find
The purpose for my visit
Someone else
Had completed the deed

I was not where I could have been
When he came around
Bustling, busy at task
Caught where he
Wasn't supposed to be

The Afternoon Bus

2009-08-26T05:26:00.000-07:00

My attention was
drawn to her slight frame and
demure posture
sitting near the front
behind the driver
she seemed comfortable
in her odd position
head bopping up and down
with the motion of the transport

She wore a wool overcoat
purple
in her lap a half
knitted scarf
the needles still poised
and ready
in her clenched fists
and at her feet
sat a large green and white
shopping bag

She had fallen asleep

Napping on the bus
always seemed
so dangerous to me
I had always been
concerned more with missing
my stop
than someone accosting me

But for this small woman
I worried

Among the riders
mostly youth
looking out for trouble
but not for the sake of avoidance
her sedimentary state
would be reason enough

My mind's eye
imagined the mutiny
the driver would not be able to sequester
Boys running amok
snatching the grocery bag

What was in that bag?
Her life savings?
Bread for the poor?
Medicines for an ailing neighbor?

My mind raced me through
action
I chased the boys and
grabbed them at their sleeves
I wrestled with them
on the aisle
and returned to the lady
victorious
her bag replaced neatly between her
stockinged knees

Movement brought me back to
reality
she opened her eyes
and pulled the cord

She looked my way
and as our glances met
we paused
I smiled
she smiled
unaware of the
good fight I had just fought
on her behalf

And her eyes traced an inverse path
back to her lap

Gathering her things
and stuffing the scarf in her bag
she gently stepped down
off the afternoon bus

(See the challenge, poetry and other musings at upsidedownbee.blogspot.com)

I Know it's Supposed to Be Funny...but (Book review: Rick and Bubba's Guide to the Almost Nearly Perfect Marriage)

2009-08-16T07:41:00.001-07:00

I know that "Rick and Bubba's Guide to the Almost Nearly Perfect Marriage" is supposed to be funny, but I didn't even chuckle. Maybe you have to be from the south, maybe you have to love hunting, or know a hunter, or like deer meat...I don't know. But this California, born and raised, "Valley Girl" didn't get it.

The "Guide" does not really offer any solid information or guidance except maybe to have a little sence of humor when it comes to marriage. They tell stories from their own lives and offer some interesting lists. For example, one of the lists is about the marriage vows, giving silly examples of the "for betters" and "for worses" (is that a word?). It may just be a demographic thing that I don't see the humor in a wife destroying her husband's fishing boat.

On the other hand, the book comes with a CD full of shorts from Rick and Bubba's radio show. That was funny! I enjoyed listening to them taking calls from listeners and a clip from one of the wives joking about an email that asked if she was older than her husband. In person, it seems, they are much more comical than in print. My kids and I listened to the CD over and over.

I'll just pass the book on to a friend.

Another writing challenge

2009-08-15T15:04:00.000-07:00

There is a friend I found on Poetic Asides who enjoyed my poetry and I hers. Periodically I go to see what my friend has written and drawn on her blog. Last week she introduced a writing challenge. You can check out the challenge here: Upsidedown Bee And here is my entry for the week...and here's the words I had to use: Dropper, Luster, Contemptuous, Christopher Columbus (I know, but you can do it!), Fretted

Really?

"Really?" That's all I could say to her. My heart was broken and the remnants were falling with a terrible thud against every vital organ in my body and settling at the soles of my feet. Glaring at me with a contemptuous look on her face; a sly grin and daring stare, I knew right away that all that we had had changed in an instant. Her skin had lost it's luster and she bore a shallow, dank complexion. She was not the child I had known, the one who wore pigtails and ruffled dresses. She was no longer the one who I nursed through illness in the wee hours, feeding droppers full of apple juice and pressing cool towels against her forehead. This was not child who's grateful eyes met mine in the shadows of her room as we cuddled together on a much too tiny toddler bed. I had fretted many nights, crying and praying for my daughter, asking God to help her find her way. But as is the mind of teenage girls, less interested in classroom lessons on Christopher Columbus and New World explorations, more in boys and impressions, I found myself at this impasse. I stood, bewildered at her know-it-all persona, mouth hanging open, confused and distressed as I repeated the only word I could force to leave my body... "really?"

Poetry prompt - Return

2009-08-14T12:07:00.000-07:00

For today's prompt, I want you to write a return poem. The return element can play a small or large role in the poem. Someone can be returning; someone can be waiting for another's return; or you can get even more creative (y'all constantly surprise and amaze me). Heck, I guess it could even be a poem about returning a book to the library or returning a box of stuff to an ex-lover.

Okay---that was Wednesday's promt from poetic asides... Here's my poem:

Heads flung forward
and jerked back again
to rest
not quite suspended
just away from the red, plastic,
covered foam.
Racing hearts
slowly recovering.
White knuckles regaining
their flesh toned hue
as the bar is lifted up and over.
I exit to the right
as the next eagerly comes on the left.
I grin to myself
the joy of the day
as I listen to the click-click
of the cars
easing down the track.

Tellin' Lies

2009-07-29T07:46:00.000-07:00

Storytellin'

It can be
so much easier
to retell the story --
I always tell my kids
If the story that you tell
is the one
that really is!

If you have kids, you know the look, the one that hangs on the words of deception; eyebrows raised as if to force the point. The look that children equate with truth-telling, though it certainly belies falsehoods. Their mouths uttering one thing and their faces saying "really!" More a question than a statement..."really -- don't you believe me?" And then, due to the lack of response from the already schooled-on-it parent they continue to talk, digging a hole deep enough to bury the entire house.
And when they become teens, there is the belligerent and loud, sometimes whiney, "You never believe me!"

Today's Poetic Asides prompt is: write a poem that deals with telling the truth--or even with telling a lie, hope you liked my spin on it :o)

Wow!

2009-07-27T05:33:00.001-07:00

I woke up early this morning because there was a spider walking on my face!!! How do you go back to sleep after that? I cooked my husband breakfast and got on the computer to pay some bills and check an alchemy I bid on. When I finally got to my email imagine my surprise to find a message on ByHand telling me one of my items is featured today!!!! I am so excited I can hardly stand it. Though I still don't think I could go back to bed if I wanted to anyway... So I guess I'll browse around a bit and see what everyone is up to... Thanks ByHand! What a wonderful surprise :)

You can see it here: https://www.byhand.me/

Don't you need a hero?

2009-07-23T05:48:00.001-07:00

I took the kids to the local movie theater yesterday. They are hosting a family film festival for the month of July into August. Free movies for the kids, one G and one PG rated film, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday mornings.

Yesterday's movie was "Everyone's Hero" - (Animation) G. I haven't seen such a wonderful movie for kids in a long time.

Yankee is a little boy in New York City when Babe Ruth was at the pinnacle of his career. The unscrupulous manager of the Chicago Cubs devises a scheme to stop Babe Ruth and the Yankees from winning the World Series. Yankee's dad works as a janitor at Wrigley Stadium. One night, while visiting his dad at work, Yankee witnesses one of the Cub's players steal Babe Ruth's lucky bat, Darlin'. Yankee and his dad are blamed for the disappearance of the bat and his dad is fired. The rest of the film is Yankee's adventures trying to retrieve the bat and return it to Babe Ruth.

Ten year old Yankee has problems on the sandlot because he's not a good baseball player, but he makes friends with a ornery baseball he names Screwy who talks, but only to Yankee. Yankee finds encouragement from his dad, Screwy, Darlin' and Babe Ruth, giving him the courage to keep on going, to do what's right and to never give up!

When we are so inundated with all that is unholy, vile, and blasphemous, it really was encouraging to see such positive messages in a family film. I laughed, the kids laughed, my little ones were intrigued, I teared up a little bit (don't tell), and we all left the theater feeling good, uplifted, and maybe a little empowered!

Am I?

2009-07-22T05:37:00.000-07:00

Am I who I am? Am I acting like the person I claim to be? A few weeks ago the Pastor gave a thought provoking message about being true. I reflected on the way home and then asked my husband, "Am I who I am?" He looked at me and smiled, maybe because hearing it was funny, or maybe he was thinking of a funny response, or maybe just because I am funny. Who knows? But he said, "Yes, I think so."

So ever since I have been considering who I am. Of course I am mommy, and I am wife, sister, daughter and friend. But I claim to be one of the King's kids, a child of the Most High, daughter of dear Adonai. In that...what does royalty act like? What does royalty wear? How does royalty speak? I decided, or God revealed, I'm not always clear about that...you know, flesh... But I came to the understanding that I need to act like I possess the salvation that was purchased for me and to don righteousness and then to keep two things, and only two things in my mouth: praise and His message.

"I can do that," I thought to myself, and then the faucet in the shower wouldn't shut off, and the stove malfunctioned, and the kids wouldn't listen to me, and my truck is making some weird new sound, and my stomach started to hurt, and I got a headache, and...God is great, He is magnificent, He is worthy to be praised. Hallelujah! He is my glory, He is my redeemer. He is wonderful. His power abounds and sin is His enemy. He is the ruler of all things, the holder of all things holy, and the giver of new life! He loves me so much that He sent His Son to die so that I might be saved! Glory to Him! Hallelujah! Thank you Jesus, Thank you Lord! Amen!

2009-07-15T07:53:00.000-07:00

Go and see the adorable items in this lovely shop!

Let no man...

2009-07-12T07:19:00.000-07:00

This poetry prompt was "nobody's worth ______". The possibilities ran through my mind. Here's what I finally came up with.

Nobody's Worth

Losing my marriage over
No bronzed
toned
brothah
No sultry
swangin'
sistah

Nobody's Worth

The years put in
Learning about
each
other
Living to give
to
another

Nobody's Worth

The children
the home
The heart
and the life
Vowed when we became
Husband
and wife

Nobody's Worth

All that
Ginger Galloway

Putting out fires

2009-07-12T00:15:00.001-07:00

Is it Sunday morning already? Whew...what a day.

I have missed a couple of Wednesday poetry prompts. Tomorrow...or later in the morning I will post the one from last week. Here is my poem from this week. The prompt was putting out fires.

Dousing

The putting out was
secondary
How or with what never crossed my mind
I don't even recall doing it
It may have been merely a reaction
It was definitely the starting
Starting was the memorable act
I remember the feeling
the desire
My desperation not to wait
I thought I knew
But being assured in one's mind
should possibly be
questioned before you turn on the gas
before you strike the match
much before the ball of fire
singes
with a vicious lick across your face
replacing frost with a burn unlike any other
My eyelids
probably requiring medical attention
but allowing my mind no course of action
except
Standing in a COLD shower
fully clothed
Whispering to myself
"ooooh, ooooh"
Dousing the fire
Dousing the fire

Porgy and Bess

2009-06-26T05:29:00.000-07:00

Mmmmm....I was in high school. A senior and an AKA Debutant. As a group we went to the opera and saw Porgy and Bess. I still remember it and the awe I felt watching the performers, African American performers. So full of pride and excitement... Here's a little taste:

And a nice slideshow:

Eggs are on sale...

2009-06-24T17:44:00.000-07:00

Eggs are on sale at the local grocery store. Chicken too. 59 cents a pound for a whole chicken. Limit 3. I get excited when I see the sales. $1.69 for General Mills cereal, a ten pound bag of potatoes for $3.99 and a coupon for a package of Oreo Cookies for 99 cents. I've always tried to be thrifty. Then my family grew by leaps and bounds and saving a buck became part of our life. There is certainly no pride in being wasteful. I have learned to be satisfied with what the Lord provides and I rest in knowing that He will meet all my needs.

Today I am living the 37th Psalm, I am encouraged by verses 23-26:

23 The Lord directs the steps of the godly.
He delights in every detail of their lives.
24 Though they stumble, they will never fall,
for the Lord holds them by the hand.

25 Once I was young, and now I am old.
Yet I have never seen the godly abandoned
or their children begging for bread.
26 The godly always give generous loans to others,
and their children are a blessing.

Twins! Such fun...

2009-06-22T08:51:00.000-07:00