It's time for a Biblical Litmus Stick...

I started a long reflective post in my head based on Carmen's Blog and Bill's Blog and a conversation that they began on the radio in the mornings. Then, this morning, I went to Linda's Blog and thought, "NOW I really have to speak out!"

The truth is, I can't. Not now. I'm speechless. I'm sad. I'm sorry that there are so many people out there who are falling hook, line, and sinker into this type of "create your own spirituality" thinking. It absolutely BREAKS my HEART!

I have loved Oprah and am thankful for all the contributions that she has made to the world at large. She is extremely compassionate and willingly gives to others regularly. I think the world would be a much better place if we'd all learn to give the way she gives. Of course, not at the level she gives...but with the willingness of spirit to do what John Wesley suggests in this most powerful quote:

Do all the good you can. In all the ways you can. In all
the places you can. At all the times you can. To all the
people you can. As long as ever you can.
-John Wesley

Over the past few years with Oprah, however, I've sensed the shift to the New Age spirituality in some of her book selections. As Carmen points out in her blog, there are "half truths" all over Oprah's website. That, my friends, is a danger to any person who is listening and buying into the type of thinking espoused there: be your own God, you are your own Savior, and so on and so on... And the reality is there are tens of thousands of women and men following Oprah and buying into her belief system.

I'm not here to bash Oprah. I think she is an amazing woman who does amazing things. I am here to say that we all have to remember to give the spiritual litmus test to the things that we read and watch. We need to make sure that we "set our minds on Christ" so that we are not deceived by false teaching. But we need to do so in a way that builds a bridge for those who are searching with all their hearts in these areas of deception. Because, in my opinion, the very worst thing any of us could do is harden ourselves to the point where we cannot extend grace and mercy to those we love. And the second very worst thing we could do is turn our heads and refuse to be informed.

I'm sad today. Very. Very. Sad. Now pass that "litmus stick" over here.

What do YOU think?

Our local radio station was discussing this Communion on the Go type cup this morning. Apparently, one of the DJs was given it since he was sick and unable to go to Easter services. His wife brought it home for him. The wafer is on the first "peel" and the juice is in the second peel.

At first I thought..."clever" for shut-ins and homebound. Then I thought, "tacky" to serve the entire communion in them...but then someone said they were originally created for military personnel working overseas.

Finally, I concluded that I don't know exactly what I think without saying, "well in THIS situation, yes...but in THIS situation, not so much..."

Actually, truth be told, it'd be GREAT for Mother's like mine who had to endure the day I got my tongue stuck in the glass cup during our very traditional church's communion service. I was just trying to lick out the last drop. Trust me, those things are NOT silent when you break the suction!! And for that matter, neither are the giggling children nearby who see and hear their friend making a such a raucous! So, yes, it would save the Mothers that painful, "You wait till we get home, missy, cause you're going to be sorry" look!

And, even today, it would have saved my own children from those times they sent their fingers diving into a shared cup to find their piece of bread that they lost when they drowned dipped it ever so reverently in the cup.

So I am asking, "What do you think?"

McThinking

Do you like these? I confess. I do. Recently, I bought some for my DS 1 and as I snagged one from his box, the question came to me.

How many people LOVE McDonald's fries? I am fairly certain if we were in a large auditorium and posed the question, a majority of hands would go up.


What if we changed the question, however, to the following:

How many people like McDonald's fries 20 minutes after they are cooked? I am pretty sure the number of hands would be significantly less than those raised after the first question. They lose "something" as they sit longer, don't they? Even when they sit directly under the warmer lights of the restaurant too long, they can get "stale" tasting and cold. It happens pretty fast when you really think about it. I've thrown away entire boxes because they were just a bit cooler than their best.

This made me, again, reflect on the conversations my DH and I have been having about churches lately. I think we are a "McThinking Generation". We want our churches to keep the same flavor they had the day we walked in the door. We expect they are going to cater to our needs and fulfill our hunger each and everytime we are gathered. And we do not expect those moments of "cooling" to happen.

Something draws each person to his or her place of worship. I think we need to ask ourselves, "What was it that drew me to this place?" It may have been the people, the music, the pastor, the preaching, the ambience, the creativity. It may have been just about anything. It's our responsibility to know that we are in the place where God would have us be.

Whatever it is, or was, though, there is a potential danger. The danger is that after a short time, we forget the "attractor" and focus on the current condition or state. We forget that God placed us there. And sometimes, just like the fries, after a few visits or a few months, people throw their hands in the air and suddenly walk away. They think it's stale or has lost its flavor.

And when I really think about it, this has been human nature since groups of "God's followers" began being recorded in the Bible.

• Adam and Eve thought there was something "better tasting" than what God had already given them.


• Esau thought there was something better so he sold his birthright to his brother!


• Moses' followers begged him to take them back to Egypt after walking across the Red Sea on DRY LAND. They wanted to go BACK to captivity and slavery rather than follow God's direction.


• Samson lost his focus and let Delilah trick him.


• Peter denied knowing Jesus on the same night he'd partaken of the Last Supper with his friend.

These were "McThinkers"...they wanted something faster, better, bigger, more tasty than what their current circumstance was presenting to them. And in going after it, they threw their hands up and traded God's best for something less. I think they missed out on huge blessings.

Over and over again in our ministry, I've seen people walk out the church doors in a huff. When you get right down to it, usually something didn't go the way someone wanted and they "packed up their toys and went home." Certainly, there are situations where I think a change is good and positive and the right thing for all involved....I suspect, however, that most times when people exit otherwise healthy churches (and healthy is the key word here) with little or no explanation, it's due to "McThinking".

When I see this I want to ask, "Would you like fries with that?" Does God REALLY change His mind that quickly?



{Note: I do NOT think staying in an unhealthy church setting is necessary. I DO think that people often run too fast, and that is what I am talkinga bout here.}

One thing I know for certain is that God is NOT a "McThinker". He is not wishy washy. He doesn't take us somewhere to leave us there without direction. Nope. He's steady. He's a rock. He's more about a long feast with the ebb and flow of conversation vs. the fast food restaurant.

So, my questions change a bit in the context of the church:

• Do we LOVE our church? Is it where God wants us to be? Will we love it in 2 months? 2 years?


• And, when our enthusiasm seems to wane just a bit, will we try and be part of the solution before just throwing up our hands and walking away?


• Will we pray and seek God's direction and avoid putting answers in our minds that we want to hear and are not from Him?

Or, will we be "McThinkers"? I sincerely hope not.

He Is RISEN!!

Happy Easter to all of you! I considered not posting this picture because it's been on my Easter blog for two years in a row, but it really DOES sum up this entire day in history.



This year, I thought I'd add a video of one of my favorite Easter memories from the past few years. Each year, in our previous church, our Youth Group would perform this "stick ministry" to the song, "Arise My Love" by Newsong. Even though this video is not our youth group, it gives me goosebumps each time I watch it and consider the words. Enjoy!

Book Review: Sisters, Ink

Last month I won a copy of Sisters, Ink by Rebeca Seitz, over at my friend, Stacy's blog. Stacy reviewed this book and I immediately thought it'd be a perfect read for me. It is a book about scrapbooking, sisters, and takes place in Tennessee (one of my favorite places).

I was so excited to win my own copy. I loved this book!

It is the story of Tandy Sinclair, an Orlando attorney who is forced to revisit her past as she takes a two week "break" from the firm. While in her home of Stars Hill, TN, she spends time with her three sisters and her Dad, Jack Sinclair (a pastor and farm owner). She and her sisters were all adopted by the Sinclairs and, in many ways, are as different as night and day. They have different relationship status, skin color, likes and dislikes. But they are "forever friends" who truly do love one another. Their mother, Marilyn died ten years earlier after a bout with breast cancer. The girls love to go to their Mother's scrapbooking studio and visit while they exercise their favorite hobby.

During this visit, Tandy finds herself reconnecting with her past love, Clay Kelner. As their paths cross again, they deal with the confusion, question, and desire that often fills such a juncture.

This book definitely has a faith "thread" but is not overly "heavy" on it. I like that. I found these to be real women with whom I could relate. It was a refreshing get away type of book. And, I'm looking forward to my next chance to glimpse the sister's lives this summer.

What Would You DO for Jesus?

{Note: Scroll down for Thursday Thirteen.}

Before she traveled with Women of Faith, and before she looked like this: Sheila Walsh was a major player in 1980's Contemporary Christian music. In fact, the Sheila Walsh that I first "knew," and listened to, on my stereo looked like this:

She was "edgy" and really had quite a unique "rock" sound. I had the opportunity to hear Sheila in concert on more than one occasion during my college years. In fact, here are DH and I at a music festival (in 1985 or 86) where Sheila played:

Dontcha' LOVE the hair???

Anyway, she ministered to me in a big way. I loved her songs. I loved her humble attitude. I loved her Scottish accent. I loved her stories.

Today, something she said in one of those concerts back then came back to me.

DH and I have been talking about some current criticism in Christian circles about how different churches reach out to those who aren't connected with a church. This would include things like having coffee available at the service, perhaps meeting in a space that is not "churchy", using large screens for projection, or any other thing that someone considers "out of the ordinary". Some Christians have decided that some of these things are "wrong".

In my personal opinion, just about anything we can do (within moral reason) to make church positive, relevant and meaningful for those who are disconnected, is a good thing. So, I tend to dismiss this thinking as harsh and filled with judgment. I mean, who cares if a church serves gourmet coffee? If it helps someone be able to relax as they listen to a sermon, is that a bad thing? And so what if the church encourages people to come in their shorts vs. getting dressed to the nines?

Back to Sheila...

One of the last times I saw her in concert, she was talking about facing criticism for the way she dressed for her concerts back then. And she replied in her sweet Scottish voice: "I'd paint my hair green and stand on my head if it'd help people to love Jesus."

I guess we all have to ask ourselves just how "far we are we are willing to go" to reach out to others.

Sheila's message that day was so much more than green hair or headstands. It was her personal conviction to reach people in a way they understood. She knew then that, for some people, it required becoming more "like them" in order to point the way to a different path. And she knew that nothing else was going to help them connect than what they "knew" and "understood".

So, I am pondering the question again more than 20 years later....because I still think it's worth reflection: "What would I be willing to DO to help someone love Jesus?" AND "What should the church be willing to do?"

Thursday Thirteen

Thirteen F words that describe Susan:

1. Fun - I love to have FUN...I'm fortunate because my job is fun for me most days. I also live in a fun family and have some very fun friends.

2. Family - Speaking of family, this is so important to me. I love visiting with my family. I'm proud of them and feel so blessed by each of them.

3. Friends - I'd be remiss if I didn't give my amazing friends their own "F Line". I love making new friends and nurturing those that are long time treasures.

4. Florida - It's where I've lived the majority of my life. I wouldn't necessarily "choose" to live here because I really love the mountains and the seasons...but my FAMILY is here and that's important to me.

5. Fish - Seafood is one of my favorite food choices. I mostly like shellfish, but I truly have never eaten any fish that I didn't like.

6. Fulfilled - I have had so many dreams fulfilled. When I consider my life, I think this is the perfect word for it. Of course there's much MORE TO DO...but I can honestly say that I've been fulfilled beyond my wildest dreams.

7. Faith - You already know that my faith is so important to me. I'd be remiss to not list it on my list this week as it is part of the very fabric of my life that defines me.

8. Fair - I really do try to be fair. I think that I have a strong sense of this and sometimes it means that I find myself very frustrated on behalf of others.

9. Facilitator - I get to do quite a bit of professional development in my job. It requires that I am able to facilitate training for our teachers. I prefer facilitating to actually "standing and delivering".

10. Flying - This is something that my DH and DS 3 love to do. DH just got his private pilot license. I am NOT a good flyer. I don't know if I could go on a small plane with him. I can barely get on the big planes. BUT I would not miss the trips I've taken for anything.

11. Finances - I am NOT good at handling the finances! I am SO glad that my DH IS good at this.
12. Fragrance - I love sweet smells...especially of my Yankee Candles! I also love it when I can walk outside at this time of the year and smell the orange blossoms.

13. Flags - I twirled "flags" in our high school marching band and loved it. I have to say that this is one of the things that made high school so fun for me.

Our Somewhat Annual Trek...

Some of you have been around here long enough to remember, this post recounting my trip to the fair with DS 4 just shy of one year ago. In that post, I confessed my sin of being a "goldfish killer" when I was a much younger mother. In an effort to put away my past, DS 4 and I bought the tank that is shown at the bottom of last year's post and began our quest to be good goldfish owners.

I'd say we succeeded. The first fish, Swimmy, died just after Christmas of this year. For those of you non-Math people, that's nine months after he came to live in our house. The second fish, Swimmy Joe, died just one week ago! That's almost exactly 12 months! A goldfish record for us.

DH recently purchased a "sucker fish" to add to the tank. Unfortunately, we lost that one this weekend.

Anyone who knows my DS 4 knows that he is an animal lover to the utmost. It doesn't matter what the animal is...he has a HUGE place in his heart for it. His fish were so important to him. When each one died, he cried big crocodile tears. And, trust me, there was no porcelain grave for our fish. No sirree!

Instead, his Dad (who is also an animal lover at heart) helped him bury each one ceremoniously at the side of our house. They even used a shovel to dig the holes...even though I'm pretty certain a garden trowel or a spoon would do.

Today, we went to the fair and DS 4 was laser focused on playing the ping pong game to get two new fish. It didn't matter that he was wearing a wrist band that allowed him to ride any ride all day. It didn't matter that they "might" die within a short time. It didn't matter that our fish from last year had longer than expected lives. Nope. None of that mattered to him.

I gave in. He played. We spent a whopping $2 and won two fish. DS 4 announced on the way home that he was going to name one "Swimmy the Second". I don't know what fish 2 is going to be called.

Regardless of their names, they are happily swimming in the tank tonight. And we are ready to be responsible goldfish owners once again. On our way home, DS 4 announced, "I just sleep better when I have a pet in my room with me." Well, alright then. At least we'll all sleep peacefully tonight.

Come Visit Me...

I'm posting over at The Internet Cafe today. Come join me!!




Happy Friday to all!

Thirteen E words that describe Susan:

1. Eagle - One of my favorite Bible verses deals with this majestic animal: "but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." (Isaiah 40:31)

2. Educator - I LOVE being in education! I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that I am doing exactly what I am called to do. I don't think that's something that many people can say about their life's profession.

3. Enthusiastic - I try to stay enthusiastic. I find that enthusiasm gives energy.

4. Economy - I know my DH might disagree, but I DO love a good bargain. I am aware of economic issues, and try to stay economical in my choices.

5. Edelweiss - I LOVE this song, from Sound of Music! When I was young, I was Gretel in the Sound of Music in our community theater. I've watched the movie dozens of times. DS 3 was also in the show here at our local dinner theater.

6. Editorial - I occasionally get "worked up" over issues. I have written editorials to the paper. I'll be honest though, most of my "editorials" are oral and for whoever will listen when I am worked up over an issue.

7. Eldest - I am the eldest sibling in my family. I LOVE my brothers so much!

8. Entertainment - Great entertainment is something that I enjoy. I love good music and theater. I admit that I am a fan of Idol, Apprentice, Home Makeover and Survivor...so I guess I like reality shows as entertainment too!

9. Elementary - I've spent more time in "Elementary School" than any other school...since that is where I teach. I believe with all my heart that a strong foundation is so important. It begins in Elementary. (I know that it really begins at home....this does not minimize the job of the Elementary experience in my opinion.)

10. Emotional - I am a highly emotional person. This was hard for my DH when we first got married. I've learned that I can't make every decision based on my emotions. That doesn't mean I'm less emotional, just more aware of them.

11. Exercise - If you've been reading my blog for any time, then you know that I am working out with a personal trainer twice a week. Lately it's been kicking my rear...I think it's because we've gone from training for a rep then resting while my friend D does her rep. Now, he has us on a circuit, so we are doing high intensity weights and cardio for an entire hour. I do love it...even though it's HARD sometimes.

12. Envision - I can picture things and ideas in my mind. I find that this happens to me a lot, so my colleagues often brace themselves when I say, "I have an idea..."

13. Eager - When I envision new ideas, I am eager to see them come to fruition. Sometimes this eagerness means I miss other things due to focusing on one thing very hard. I have also learned that just because I have a vision, others won't necessarily be as eager as I to make it a reality.

Wordless Wednesday: Spring and Mothering

Book Review: The Penny

I just finished reading The Penny by Joyce Meyer and Deborah Bedford. This is Joyce's first fiction work. It is one that I picked up this summer and finally got around to reading!

The book is about Jenny Blake, a young teen who learns that small decisions sometimes change everything. She is a girl who lives in a world that is at times extremely unpleasant, yet her spirit is quite beautiful. She discovers her faith and forges a wonderful relationship with the mysterious Miss Opal Shaw who allows Jenny to work in her jewelry store.

Jenny also develops a special friendship with Aurelia, who is an African American from "across the tracks" but attends school with Jenny. Aurelia and her family also play a unique role in helping Jenny find and develop her faith.

It's through these relationships that she learns to see the beauty that's inside her. She learns about love and forgiveness.

In the context of this book, Meyer relays some of the events of her own life. The story includes glimpses of repeated physical and sexual abuse, broken families, prejudice, poverty, and racial tension. But more important are the threads of grace and forgiveness that is offered through Jesus.

Although for me at times the story was slow, I am glad I pushed through this one. It was well worth considering what life must be like in some homes where one or more of these horrific conditions exist.

I was also reminded just how blessed I am...but also of the great responsibility we all have to reach out to those who are rejected, abused or scorned by their own family and/or the world around them. For we truly might be the only Jesus some people ever see.

My Weekend Window...

Once again, I have not been out to visit blogs. I'm missing you all terribly!! This is the busiest season of the year for me. When testing time rolls around, there is just so much to do and prepare. Fortunately, I was able to squeeze in a moment to give an update on our weekend.

Friday - My friend, D and I worked out with the trainer. It was a great upper body workout. I tweaked my thumb of all things. This little "pinch" reminded me what a great workout I had all weekend. Thankfully, it seems to be better today.

Saturday - I taught Saturday School. We had a great time making "test strategy quilts" with the kids. We read one of my favorite books, Hooray for Diffendoofer Day!. This is an "unearthed manuscript" from Dr. Seuss that was published posthumously. We talked about the theme of the book that they know everything they need to know...now they just need to "rest in what they know".

We encouraged the students to put their "quilts" under their pillows and sleep on it. I know Saturday School sounds like it could be a bore, but it really is fun. Next Saturday the kids get to spend all the "money" they have earned for attendance, behavior and spirit activities at our Saturday School auction. It's so much fun to watch them wheel and deal!

After a much needed manicure, D and I walked 2 miles at the Y. Then we met our friend B for dinner and went to a concert at her church. We got to see a "blast from the past", Don Francisco. It was a great night with some old favorites. One of my very favorites is I Don't Care Where You've Been Sleepin. You can click on the link and hear it, but here's a sampling of the words that are just so very powerful:

I don't care where you've been sleeping, I don't care who's made your bed
I already gave My life to set you free;
There's no sin you could imagine that is stronger than my love,
And it's all yours if you'll come home again to Me.

When you come back to your senses and you see who's been to blame,
Remember all the good things that were yours with just My name;
Then don't waste another thought before you change the way you're
bound
I'll be running out to meet you if you'll only turn around

Sunday - We went to church. The sermon was extremely touching and thought-provoking. I am probably going to blog about it later this week. I went to a funeral for a friend's Mother later that afternoon after a quick run through the mall. She was 103!


Last night, DS 4 and I went out to the beach to walk before sunset. It was a little cool, but still refreshing. I got to read some while he played with his friend.

Speaking of reading, I FINALLY finished a new book and will be reviewing it later on.

That's about all for my weekend. I hope yours was blessed!

Here are the FCAT Singers...

I'm hoping this works.

Thursday Thirteen

Thirteen D words that describe Susan:

1. Determined - I sometimes get my mind set on something and I cannot be sidetracked. This can be both positive and negative. I can recall many times when family and colleagues have had to tell me to "Let it go!"

2. Dreamer - I dream a lot! I dream in my sleep. But I also dream of things to come and things I hope for. And I'm blessed that many of my dreams have come true!

3. Drama - I love drama! Not the teenage girlie kind (to be sure) but the real stage kind. I participated in community theater as a child and did some as a teen and young adult. This is something I haven't done for a very long time...but I DO love it!

4. Dancing - I love to dance. It's a great stress reducer.

5. DS 1 - my oldest son, DS 1 has a "D" name. He has grown into such a fine young man. I love watching him and knowing that he's seeking out his passions. Of course, I'm going to be sad when he leaves us in April, but I know it's how he must continue his own journey.

6. DH - my husband also has a "D" name. His support for his family. His passion for his job. His drive and ambition are amazing to me.

7. Diet Coke - my favorite all time thing to drink...from a fountain, not a can, please.

8. Deals and Discounts - I love a good bargain when I see one! It's fun to look for things that are reduced in price significantly.

9. Daytime - I am not a "night person"...I'm not a "morning person"...really my best time is when the sun is out and it's daylight.

10. Driver - I love to drive places. My dream is to drive America by backroads via an RV. It won't happen unless I do it alone because really no one else in my family likes to travel this way.

11. Driven - I'll bet you thought I put "drive" twice. I am driven for some things. I have one of those A-type personalities. Again, this CAN be both positive and negative.

12. Domestic - OK this is something I am NOT. I love being at home. But staying at home all the time makes me crazy.

13. Decorate - Even though I am not domestic, I love to decorate. I like decorating for everyday and for the holidays. It brings me joy.

Wordless Wednesday--Sort Of...

My colleagues and I wrote a song to High School Musical's "What Time Is It?" to help motivate our kids for their upcoming state test. It mushroomed into quite a production complete with video. I'm hoping to get it up on You Tube to share. You can see that I was able to recruit DS 2 and his friend K to help. I love it when people work together to make school a bit more exciting for kids! I work in a great place with great people.

Time to Lighten Up...

Geez, this place has been a bit "deep" lately! I think it's time to lighten up a bit. Since I really have no "funny" things to change the mood, I thought I'd send a little bulleted list about what's happening in our neck of the woods:

• DH came home Saturday...YEAH! This was one of his "longer" stints away, so it's always nice to have him back home again.
• We went Sunday with DS 2 and his GF, E, to meet her parents. It was a great evening just visiting with her family. They are both planning to attend the same college next year, and she has a sister there already. This meant I got to hear some "Mom scoop" on the place.
• DS 1 and DS 3 went running together the other day. Both are wanting to condition a little better. I say "more power to 'em"! I simply CANNOT run! I think it's neat that they went together.
• Speaking of DS 1, he took DS 4 to the Y with him the other day. DS 4 was so excited and has talked about it several times since. (Have I told you how much this young man looks up to his older brothers?)
• DH and I start attending a small group from church tonight. I am planning to blog about meeting those we will spend the next four months with very soon. It's a neat story so far.
• State testing starts next week...this is the time of year when checking blogs regularly can be a little "iffy" for me. If I'm not out to comment at your place, know that I am still reading via Google Reader.

There, that's a little lighter, isn't it?

A Letter to my Brother...

Dear "Youngest Redneck Brother",

I am responding to your comment on this post. I know that we sometimes see the world through different eyes and I'm 100% OK with that. You are right, that we all have choices about what to watch, listen to, read, etc. And that DOES mean that I have the freedom to change the radio channel when that song comes on...which I'll do from now on when I hear it.

You say that music is "just entertainment". I disagree. If that were true, then there would be no need for words. Music like this is poetry set to a melody. Someone wrote those words and that means that someone believes those words or wants to send a message. I DO believe there ARE songs out there with no real deep message...they are meant to make you tap your feet and have fun. But to say that the words of all types of music have no meaning is wrong. I think the lyricists in the music business would strongly disagree with you.

Here are some examples, to use more country music...

Do you think that Alan Jackson wanted us just to sit back and simply enjoy the music when he sings, "Where were you when the world stopped turning on that September day?" Or, do you think Toby Keith wants us to simply sing along and not really think about the words to his song, American Soldier? When I hear him sing these words:

I'm an American soldier
An American
Beside my brothers and my sisters
I will proudly take a stand
When liberty's in jeopardy
I'll always do what's right
I'm out here on the front line
So sleep in peace tonight
American soldier
I'm an American soldier

I am moved...deeply. And I'm moved even more so now that I am going to have a son who is an "American Soldier". And, knowing you, I suspect that you are moved too. These are the kinds of songs that have deep meaning and are meant to appeal to our emotions. Just like the song by Brooks and Dunn.

Entertainment is not just for "pleasure" or "fun". It is designed to make you laugh, make you cry, or to make you think. And this song, that Brooks and Dunn just produced, is one that made me think. I don't think it was just written to be a sing-along-song. It is right up there with Alabama's Angels Among Us or even the "lighter sounding" My Front Porch Looking In by Lonestar. All of these songs have deep messages.

Since I cannot believe that God Must Be Busy was written with no intended message, then I have to stand by my original opinion. God's NOT BUSY.

Actually, I was quite surprised that it came from Brooks and Dunn, who performed the beautiful song, Believe which sings about the kind of faith that does NOT believe that God is busy:

...Says he was in the war when in the navy
Lost his wife, lost his baby
Broke down and asked him one time
How ya keep from going crazy
He said I'll see my wife and son in just a little while
I asked him what he meant
He looked at me and smiled, said

(Chorus)
I raise my hands, bow my head
I'm finding more and more truth in the words written in red
They tell me that there's more to life than just what i can see
Oh I believe

I am in no way suggesting that we "boycott Brooks and Dunn". Please hear that message clearly. I like them. I hope that no one thinks I am writing them, or their music, completely off. I would not do that. That is a problem I have with people who make sweeping generalizations about music genres.

I still stand by my original assertion that this song, and its lyrics, missed the faith boat, though. Because, as you say, "God is not small stuff."

Thank you for making me think more about this. It's OK to disagree and I love it that we CAN disagree and be OK with that. And yes, you've always been pretty good at "stirring up the apple cart"!

Love you,

Susan

Saturday Photo Hunt: Party

When I think of the theme, "Party", I cannot help but picture all the times my extended family has "partied" at the VFW. This was my Grandmother's 85th birthday party--it was a surprise in 2005. And trust me, it was FUN!

Oh, oh oh on the radio...

I love music. All kinds of music. Well, maybe rap and screamo is an exception...but even those I can appreciate sometimes. I mostly listen to the Christian radio, but I occasionally channel surf to listen to other genres. This morning, I was surfing and this new song came on by Brooks and Dunn. It caught my ear right away:

That anchor man says the fight began somewhere in the Middle East.
The world prays for peace.
There's a single mom just got laid off when she lost a job
to some foreign hands in some faraway land.
Last night in Oklahoma some twister took thirteen
and they're praying that they findthe missing three.
God must be busy.

I almost did a double take when I first heard these words. I found myself talking to the radio, "WHAT did you just say?" The song continued...

That highway sign went from slow ahead to traffic's dead.
Thought it couldn't get worse than that Amber Alert. They say she's 4,
Colorado plates, headed out-of-state in a Chevy van.
It's hard to understand.
You can see it in the faces of all those highway strangers,
they're praying that Godkeeps that girl from danger.
God must be busy.

My comment, as Brooks and Dunn continued singing, was "Surely they are going to bring this around and tell the listener the REAL lesson, that GOD'S NOT BUSY!" If you'd have been inside my car, you'd have been shocked to hear me hollering at the medal knobs and lighted display like it was going to change something. The song continued...

And I know in the big picture I'm just a speck of sand
and God's got better things to do than look out for one man.
I know he's heard my prayers cause he hears everything,
he just ain't answered back or he'd bring you back to me.
God must be busy.

There's no need sharing the rest of the lyrics with you. The message doesn't change. What happened to me in my car, though, was the sudden realization that there are mixed messages all around us. I felt the urge to roll the windows down and shout...GOD'S NOT TOO BUSY!

I'm sorry. God has no answering machine. The Bible says, "He hears me when I call." It doesn't say "Leave a message and I'll get back to you." It says, "He knows the number of hairs on my head...and yours...and yours...and his...and hers." If He has time to care about the number of hairs on my head, He's NOT TOO BUSY. It says to "Be anxious in NOTHING because HE cares." It says, "He will not leave us or forsake us." It says that He is LOVE. He's the giver of peace. I could go on and on and on...

I believe He's there in the Middle East. He's present when the single Mother loses her job to the global economy. He cares deeply for the little girl who is taken from her family in a senseless crime. He walks through every storm of life with us...calming the waves both figuratively and literally. He helps us when we are lost. And He never ever ever has better things to do than to "look out for one man" (or woman). Nope. THIS time, this duo's got it wrong. Dead wrong.

I could not go another blogging minute without doing the very thing I was wishing the lyricist would magically do on my radio today...bring the message around...because when we, in our human eyes, THINK God's too busy (and admittedly I have before), we have to think again.

For the truth is that GOD'S NOT TOO BUSY for anything or anyone. And that's a promise you can hang your hat on!

In keeping with the ABC theme, I'm writing C words that I like or that describe me this week:



1. Christian - First and foremost, I am a Christian. I am so grateful that my Mother raised my Brother and I in church. This has been such an important part of my life. When I think about my faith journey, I must say I am overwhelmed at the amazing GRACE of God as He's watched me twist and turn my way through this thing called my life.

2. Children - You already know how important my boys are to me. I have always loved children. It started when I was very young when I babysat regularly. It continued for me into my life's profession (and calling) of teaching. They bless me each and every day and I consider it a privilege to work with kids.

3. Control-Freak - I like to tell people I am a "recovering control-freak". Those who know me best know that I'm still a control-freak down deep. I am trying to be better about this...some days I win and others...not so much! (Refer back to #1)

4. Chorus - I sang in choir from the time I was young. It started with church choirs and I was part of the school choir from 7th grade on. I enjoy all sorts of music and I think this is one of the reasons. We did classical, madrigal, show tunes, sacred and other music. I even directed the choir in our little country church when DH first started pastoring. I loved that.

5. Conventional - I am a believer that conventional is sometimes the "way to go". Things don't always have to be newfangled and different, do they?

6. Christmas - My FAVORITE holiday...bar none! I love love love everything about it.

7. Collections - I collected rocking horses while I was in college and early into our marriage. I no longer have that collection although I have remnants of it. My kitchen is currently done in a collection of apples. I don't see the apples as a permanent collection, though. If you've read my blog for any time at all then you know that I also collect nativity scenes. This is one that I think I will always keep.

8. Chick-Fil-A - This is my favorite fast food restaurant.

9. Conservative - In most things, I am rather conservative. There are moments, though, when I'm sure you'd think I was a flaming liberal. I think it's OK to keep 'em guessing sometimes!

10. Creative - I love to be creative. Sometimes I forget that creativity is expressed in many ways besides visual arts. While I totally consider myself a dabbler, I DO enjoy creating things like my scrapbooks. I also find that I like creative outlets like writing and working creatively at work.

11. Compassion - I am glad that I am able to consider others and their situations most of the time. I especially get broken for children who are underprivileged and/or from poverty. It tugs my heartstrings beyond what I can bear sometimes. I am thankful that God has allowed me to work with kids in these settings for several years now.

12. Cruising - I LOVE crusing and I am 100% excited about going to ALASKA in June with my DH. I could live on a cruise ship...they are just floating cities and it is just way too cool!

13. Calendar - Although I forget to look at mine some days, I DO live by my calendar. I also love saving my old ones as "history" of sorts.

Life's Journey...

I have used this quote many many times in professional development for teachers. In the past 24 hours, it's taken on new meaning for me.

The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes. Marcel Proust

As I've said before, I occasionally get weepy. Some of it is directly related to being a Mom who is watching her boys grow right before her eyes...and perhaps before she's ready. Some of it is general life frustrations. Some of it is probably because I'm a mid-forty-something female.

This weekend, I've had a couple of weepy moments. My DS 1 was out on "drill weekend" with his National Guard unit. He leaves in a few short weeks for Basic Training and AIT. I have come to grips with the whole decision and am quite proud, but it doesn't mean that it doesn't make me emotional.

DS 2 is getting closer to heading off to college in the Fall. He'll be moving to Michigan. That's a long way away!

I love watching all four of them grow! Really I do. I'll admit there are times when I get frustrated....what parent doesn't? I find myself wanting them to fit MY mold, do things in MY time, and even in MY way. Perhaps it's like Proust says, I want them to "seek different landscapes". I've learned, though, that this simply isn't what's best. They must make decisions and move along their journey with my (and DH's) guidance...and they must fall sometimes to learn....

Yesterday, I found myself talking with God about some of my "would've", "could've" and "should've"s with regard to being their Mom. I asked forgiveness for those moments when we miss the mark. I asked Him to help me be the Mother they need. And I asked Him to help me see them through His eyes as they each take the next steps in their journeys. I asked Him to help me, as my sweet blogging friend, Lazy Daisy has taught me, to "Say little, PRAY much!" I asked Him to give me "new eyes" through which to view my young men.

And today, quite by surprise, I have seen each one of them in a new way---through NEW EYES!

DS 3 and DS 2 made me downright proud yesterday when they joined our church's "Roadie" team. This is the group of dedicated members who go up to the school on Saturday to prepare it for Sunday's service. When I watched them go, I realized they have become young men who care about others and are willing to serve when and where they can.

DS 4, along with DSs 2 and 3, pitched in to help me "greet" at church today. I know there are many young people out there who would go have a root canal before they helped out in such a way!

After church, I watched the three of them help clean up and never complain about lifting or pushing or packing all the "stuff". We enjoyed a lovely lunch together with DS 2's GF during which we shared wonderful conversation.

This afternoon, DS 1 came home from his drill and although he's tired, he was so proud to tell us that he got promoted to the next rank. He now has some leadership responsibility in his unit. This is quite exciting for him as it confirms that he is doing his job well.

When I gave birth to my second son, for a brief blink-of-an-eye moment, I wondered if we'd ever have a girl. I felt guilty and found myself speaking with God about it for I truly was so thankful to be a Mom with a beautiful new baby. God made it so clear to me at that time that DH and I needed to raise Godly young men who would one day become responsible husbands and fathers and citizens. I knew with each subsequent pregnancy when people would speculate if this was "my girl" that it was, instead, another one of God's young men.

Yes, they are growing. Yes, they will each reach that moment when they "leave the nest". Yes, all of our landscapes will change in the coming months. Yes, there are plenty of "would've, could've, should've"s BUT...when I look at them through the eyes of God, I see them differently. I see the fruit that is in each of their lives....I see their awesome potential as they get ready to face the world.

And I'm excited to watch the next step in each of their journeys no matter where it takes them!

It was all he wanted...

Most of you remember my peanut butter & jelly soapbox, so I shall not try and beat a dead horse here, but yesterday something happened that caused my ire to resurface over this same issue.

I was in our school cafeteria to grab lunch. They make some pretty good turkey tetrazzini, so I was debating whether to have that or the chef salad (which I also like). As I pondered my choices, Vincent walked in. He is a child that I have adored for years. He truly is like "Pigpen" from Charlie Brown. And it's so easy to just fall in love with him because as disheveled and random as he is, he always is so honest, kind, and gentle.


Vincent said, "Hey, Mrs. N! What are you going to have for lunch?" I said, I'm getting the turkey, what are you having?" He replied, "I have to have PB&J. My Mom hasn't paid for my lunch for a while." He hesitated a moment and said, "I sure hope they let me have some of that spinach!"


Now, although as a child, I wouldn't touch it, I do like spinach today...when it's cooked the way I like it. But school cafeterias notoriously cook the life out of it and it's just plain unappetizing in its appearance. I've not done the true research, but I suspect Vincent was one of a handful of students who was anticipating spinach for lunch.


He told the manager that he had to have PB&J and was told, "Well, if that's the case, you need to put the chocolate milk back and get white." Um, they ARE the SAME price! Then, as if to add insult to injury, he meekly asked, "May I please have some spinach?" What I heard next could have knocked me over..."No, you cannot have spinach or fruit, you only get PB&J!" This is America, people! It's supposed to be a FEDERAL program. I work with kids who may or may not get a meal at home in the evening. This may be their only meal in the day.


All he really wanted was the SPINACH! It wasn't ICE CREAM he was asking for...or the cookies that were available. It was SPINACH! What is wrong with this picture??


I know you're probably asking why I didn't pay for Vincent's lunch. TRUST ME, I would have if I had had a penny in my own account or the money in my pocket. I didn't though. I had to borrow from my DS 4's account to pay for my turkey...I mean I was one meal away from PB&J and white milk myself!!!


Honestly, today I have extra money AND my checkbook so I can fill my account in case I run into any more Vincents in the lunch line. But I know it's a short solution to a huge problem. I know I need to pursue it more. Once again, I'll be contacting the person in charge of food and nutrition services here in our county.


My Mother used to tell me to eat my spinach for the poor starving children in Africa...maybe we need to look at the poor starving children in our own backyard!

Thursday Thirteen:

In keeping with the ABC theme, I'm writing B words that I like or that describe me this week:

1. Believer - I am so thankful that I've had my faith to sustain me for most of my life.

2. Blonde - My hair is really blonde and I never added highlights to it until a couple of years ago. Now, I go with highlights like once a year.

3. BOYS - My life is filled with boys! I LOVE LOVE LOVE being a boy-Mom! God knew exactly what He was doing when He gave us our guys. They are wonderful and bring me such joy each and everyday!

4. Bananas - I love bananas. We almost always have them at our house. The boys like making smoothies with them.

5. Blessed - I am blessed beyond measure. We used to sing a song in church that said, "We're blessed, we're blessed, we are blessed....we don't deserve it, but yes, we are blessed!" I think this pretty much sums up.

6. Books - I LOVE reading and I LOVE books! I'm quite addicted to children's books. I have almost 3200 at school.

7. Boats - I don't get out on boats as often as I like, but I DO love being out on the water. It's very peaceful for me.

8. Bossy - I'm sure that both of my brothers, and perhaps my boys, would say that at times I can be bossy. I was always the kid who made the rules when we were growing up. I think I even remember many many times when I'd say, "Pretend you said ______ now...." I think I put words into kids mouths!

9. Brothers - I have two of the best brothers in the world. They are both successful, kind, and a whole heap of FUN!!

10. Bubbles - I love to blow bubbles! I admit that each year I buy bubble solution whether anyone in my house will use it or not. I think they are fun.

11. Bake - I don't do it if I don't have to. I'm so thankful for a husband who is willing to do this in our home.

12. Beach - I live close to the beach. It's not my favorite place to go and spend a day, but everytime I walk the beach at sunset, I find myself thankful for such a great place to live.

13. Broadway - I LOVE LOVE LOVE Broadway shows---especially musicals! I finally got to go to the "real" Broadway last year and I LOVED it! I could spend a long time there going from theater to theater and just basking in it all.

Inquiring Minds Want to Know....And a Request

Some of you asked what kinds of birds were in my photos from Wordless Wednesday below. They are White Ibis. This link described them as:

...highly sociable at all seasons, roosting and feeding in flocks, and nesting in large colonies.

Gee, you think????

And since I know bloggers are a lot like White Ibis, PLEASE head on over to Flip Flop Floozie's and wish her a GREAT BIG HAPPY BIRTHDAY! She is absolutely one of the sweetest bloggers in the south.

Wordless Wednesday....Nesting

I left these "clickable" so you could see just how amazing it was...

A Glimpse of our Weekend...

We had a very busy weekend. DS 4 and I spent the weekend in Tampa with my Mom. He had a soccer tournament up there with two games on Saturday and one on Sunday.

Sunday's game was early in the morning, so we spent the rest of our day at Busch Gardens. Here's DS 4 having probably the most fun he had all day:

In the photo above, he's standing on the bridge waiting for the boat to come down the giant hill and splash everyone. Here comes the water......

And MORE WATER...

And a little more spray for good measure....
This was definitely DS 4's favorite ride....that he DIDN'T ride!

Busy Busy Bloggers....

This week's been busy here in "Blogland"! Not that the blogging has been overly heavy, it just seems that many bloggers have had a lot of stuff happening!

I am so excited because my blogging friend (and neighbor), Danielle had a successful Art Show. If you haven't seen her work, please head over to her blog and click on this link cause she has some awesome photos that capture Florida and nature just beautifully! In fact, she's one of the reasons I've started viewing my little corner of the world a bit differently.

Two of the sweetest Blogging Babes had surgeries over the past few days. We are rejoicing because Sweet Lazy Daisy had her lapband surgery yesterday. This is something for which we've all been praying for months and it's just SO COOL how it all came together for her!!

And Magnificent Melli has survived her dental surgery! She's going to have a new smile in no time. In the meantime, she's happy to share her smile with all who visit her place.

God is good and it's so so special for me to be able to watch these journeys via blogging. I'm so happy for all of you!

Thursday Thirteen: The ABC's of Me (A)

Many of you have done the ABCs on your Thursday Thirteens. I liked it and kept saying I was going to start it. Today I decided to make good on my word despite the fact that most of the blogging world will be doing 13's centered around blogging.

Here's 13 A words that describe or tell something about me....

1. Astute: I notice things and people and events. This can be good or bad as sometimes it makes me jump to conclusions about things or people or events!

2. Arts: I dropped out of "Great Works of Art" TWICE in college, but I DO love art. I know this is an area of my life that I need to improve.

3. Adore: I adore my DH and my four boys.

4. Amiable: I usually make friends easily. I like talking to people and getting to know them.

5. Answers: I like to find answers to people's questions--most of the time. I get to do this a lot in my job. I will confess that there are times when I think the questions are "dumb" and I don't give the BEST answer that I could. I'm learning.

6. Autumn: Although I grew up in Florida, I LOVE this season the best. I really love it the first time the weather gets crisp after being sunny and warm for so long. I also LOVE the colors that most the rest of the world gets to see.

7. Assign: I've done my share of "assigning" jobs and tasks as a teacher.

8. Author: I've written and published three books for teachers and hundreds of teachers guides for reading books. I really would like to write something for the "non-teacher" world. Who knows? Maybe someday I will.

9. Aim: Something I forget to do sometimes. I am quite random and I sometimes "jump in and fire" before I told myself to "ready and AIM". This can cause problems. I've learned the hard way.

10. Activities: I love to participate in many activities---scrapbooking, visiting with friends, crafting, etc. Mostly I love visiting with the people that the activities bring about.

11. Appreciation: There are so many people I've met and opportunities that I've had that I appreciate beyond what I could have imagined for myself.

12. Adventures: I like to go on adventures when anxiety doesn't get in my way. (Hey, that's TWO "A" words...adventure, that's not the extreme kind, is fun for me.

13. Assurance: I am so grateful for the assurance of my eternal life. I am constantly amazed at the grace that God extends to me regularly.

(That's another "A" word...AMAZED! This is getting easier each step I take. Only 25 more letters to go!)

Wordless Wednesday: Peaceful

When did Valentines get so tough?

As I've stated before, I am no contender for Mother of the Year. Usually I am in the store with DS 4 on February 13th when we frantically search for cards to take to school the next day. Then we fuss and whine while we fill out the cards for everyone. Let's just say there's not much LOVE when we do it this way.

This weekend, I decided it was going to be different. While DH took the kids flying yesterday, I went to the store and got a box of soccer cards for DS 4. Think about it, I am giving him a whopping FOUR day head start on our "normal" Valentine routine. When he arrived home, he approved of my choice...especially since these cards fold into a soccer field and had a punch out soccer ball to actually "play". Last night, I was the "best Mom ever".

Today he opened the box, and decided to try and fold the field to test it out before he gives it to his friends. Let's just say that I almost had to call my Engineer BIL in for back-up! And oh my goodness...the little "ball" has to be put together so it will roll! Not one to back down from a good challenge, I DID get the field and the ball together. The ball is four flat round pieces that are each smaller than a dime and have to be "notched" together to make it 3-D. Anything for "love"...you know?

Probably the fact that I cannot even find a picture of these cards on the manufacturer's website to share with you, should clue me in that these are no ordinary Valentines cards! The beauty of it all quickly wore off for DS 4 and he left his cards to go watch American Gladiator. Not too bad, right? We still have three more days to go!

And because I'm a "lesson looker"...here's what I thought:

Isn't that how love is sometimes? We make it so complicated and hard to figure out. Perhaps we need to "get back" to those moments we simply use those three powerful words, "I love you." And we look for simple ways to share it with others.

I believe it would change the world more than any intricate folded soccer field Valentine ever will! And, trust me, it will be MUCH LESS FRUSTRATING!

What's in your __________.?

We are currently learning about the life of Moses at church. The "title" of this series is called __________. Yep, you read that right, it's kind of a "fill in the blank" series as we look at the many ways that God fills in the blank that was Moses' life and ministry as well as so many around him.

Today, the pastor mentioned Pharaoh in a way that I never really considered before. Rather than a totally villainous character, he kind of put him in the role of a victim. Consider some of these things. The Pharaoh was about 22 years old. He was considered a deity by the people he served. He thought he had it all figured out. Then God, through Moses and Aaron, rocked his world.

The pastor talked about how this began through Aaron's staff turning into a serpent in front of the Pharaoh. He (the pastor) noted that the Pharaoh had a crown with a serpent on it symbolizing his own power and authority. He went on to note that God usually uses things we know and understand to get our attention. Pharaoh would have understood the serpent. Unfortunately, Pharaoh had too much "stuff" in his ________. and he refused to listen to God even as God brought plagues on Egypt. Because, as scripture notes, "his heart became hard".

He went on to discuss Pharaoh's crown and noted that we all have a crown of sorts. When I think about it, I am reminded of just the number of times that I try to "rule" and "control" my own life. Yet, God really wants to replace MY crown with HIS crown. HE wants to be the King of my life. You'd think we'd learn that this is the way it's supposed to be.

The pastor noted that for each of us there may be a different symbol on our crown (like the Pharaoh's serpent) that represents the thing that separates us from God. It could be unforgiveness, anger, money, a person, or anything else for that matter. And God wants to erase it and fill in the blank with His mercy and His grace---His Spirit---if (and when) WE let Him!

As I considered this, I thought not only about my own "blank" that I need God to fill in, but also the number of times that I've tried to fill in other people's blanks (whether it's my family or friends). Too numerous are the times when I thought "I know what they need" when my thoughts SHOULD be "God fill my blank and use me and my life to help reveal your love, mercy and grace to others so they can get their blank filled in at the right time." We cannot fill in the spiritual blanks of those around us. Only God can do that.

Reflecting on my own ___________., I once again found myself so moved that God, the lover of my soul, wants to continue to sift through the junk that I fill my own blank with and replace it yet again with His love and friendship...His mercy and amazing grace.

And I am humbled beyond words at that kind of love.

What's in your _______________.?

Photo Hunt: Heavy

It's been a couple of weeks (I think) since I participated in the Photo Hunt. I really didn't think I HAD a picture for "heavy". Then I came across this picture from our trip to Sea World a few months ago. And I decided, "SHAMU IS heavy!!" So here he is...

Reposting: What's It All About Alfie?

{Note: This post was originally posted in March of last year and I have decided to share it again as it weighs heavily on my heart and mind today. The reason it came to mind again is because I learned that a Kindergarten student at my school lost his Mother to murder this week, one former student is now incarcerated until she's 21, and another was taken away by the Department of Children and Families. It reminds me of many stories of struggle and tragedy that our students face. And It reminds me that we ALL need to be working to make a difference in our world.}

When I was little, I took piano lessons. I hated practicing songs that I didn't know. I remember when my Mom bought me a book that was simple versions of "songs from the 70's". I learned to play this song titled, "What's It All About, Alfie?"

This morning I found myself humming it...as moment by moment at school revealed more and more horrible things. We were informed that a student would have to be tested one on one today. It seems this 12-year-old youngster was arrested last week on sexual battery charges on another student at my school!! Then another person came in and told us there was a second student being investigated on ANOTHER sexual battery charge in a totally unrelated incident. And if that wasn't enough, the Department of Children and Families is investigating two different families on horrific charges of child abuse.

THEY ARE KIDS!! Or are they?

This boy is 12 years old. His mug shot is on the police website for his arrest. Anyone can see it. The girl may attend our school as well. And I ask myself HOW does this happen?

I live in a relatively affluent city. Most of our schools are filled with upper middle class to the rich and wealthy kids. There are pockets, however, of total poverty here. My school represents one of those pockets. Many of our kids go home and don't always know where their next meal is coming from, where their parents are, and where they will sleep at night. Some learn crime from their older siblings, parents, and neighbors. Many have at least one parent who is incarcerated. Some have parents who speak little or no English. They simply came here looking for something better than they had in their country and they are doing the best they can to make their way in this place.

Regardless, the state testing continues. I get angry when I contrast the many children at my school who are sitting hungry, lonely, afraid and angry, in front of test booklets they cannot read today with those students in other schools across the city whose major concern is that they didn't get BOTH $180 pair of jeans this past weekend. It's true. Yet, those are the stories that no paper and pencil test results reveal.

They never have and they never will.

So, today, I find myself humming...."What's it all about?????" I don't know WHO Alfie is...or was...but when I looked at the lyrics this morning to see why this song was coming to my mind...I was a bit stunned:

What's it all about, Alfie?
Is it just for the moment we live?
What's it all about when you sort it out, Alfie?
Are we meant to take more than we give
or are we meant to be kind?
And if only fools are kind, Alfie,
then I guess it's wise to be cruel.
And if life belongs only to the strong, Alfie,
what will you lend on an old golden rule?
As sure as I believe there's a heaven above, Alfie,
I know there's something much more,
something even non-believers can believe in.
I believe in love, Alfie.
Without true love we just exist, Alfie.
Until you find the love you've missed you're nothing, Alfie.
When you walk let your heart lead the way
and you'll find love any day, Alfie, Alfie.

May we all find a way to reach out and extend love to someone less fortunate than us this week. May we learn to reach across racial and ethnic boundaries. May we find a way to bring light into darkness; love where there's hatred; hope where there's despair. After all, "without true love we just exist, Alfie...Until you find the love you've missed you're nothing, Alfie!"

And, THAT'S what it's all about!!

Thursday Thirteen--Random Edition

Thirteen Things SUSAN'S Thinking Today 1. I am sore sore sore, which tells me I need to work out more more more! Actually,I asked the trainer last night to make it harder because I know it's time to "kick it up a notch". 2. I've got four books started and none near done. It's time to finish one so I can say I've accomplished SOMETHING in my reading life! 3. We are drowning in DATA at my school. It seems like people are asking from numbers on kids all the time....no one really ever asks about KIDS anymore. This makes me SAD! 4. For those of you who read my post about Student Repellent...the can shall be removed this week. And I'm glad. 5. DS 1 is getting closer to leaving for Basic Training and I'm getting WEEPY over it! 6. Third grade homework is making me CRAZY...OR maybe it's the third grader! 7. I'm excited about a new venture with four of my colleagues. We have two new books to be published. 8. Whining makes me CRAZY...especially when it's from grown-ups. 9. I bought the New Passion CD last night. It has the song God of This City that Chris Tomlin sang in concert last week. It's AMAZING! 10. Valentines is this next week and I want to do something special with my DH. 11. I haven't been able to visit as many blogs as regularly as I like lately. In my mind that means I'm too busy. 12. My laptop is still DEAD and I miss having it. I need to get some files off of it... I'm praying this will not be a problem. 13. DH took his pilot test last Sunday and now he's "official". He can take people on little planes.. For the record, it won't be ME at this time...I can't stand those little planes. I'm so glad that DS 3 likes it and can share it with him. For that matter, all my boys can share it with him. There, is that random enough????

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Melancholy...

Do you ever just wake up feeling melancholy? I do. When I looked the word up in the dictionary, it said:

A gloomy state of mind. OR Sober thoughtfulness. Pensiveness.

For me, melancholy is not "gloomy" most of the time...it's simply the "sober thoughtfulness" that sometimes fills my mind. It's like sifting through all the events, people, worries, concerns, to-do's, didn't do's, and should do's all at once. Sometimes I get lost in these thoughts.

Is it because I am tired? Is it because I bite off more than I can chew on a regular basis? Is it because I am hard on myself? Or, is it simply because I am human?

Regardless of the "why", today, for me, is a melancholy day.

Because some days I'm a lazy blogger...

I am not sure I could put together one coherent thought today, so I decided to copy Lauren at Baseballs and Bows and do some game recommendations. (I know that she and Heidi both added widgets, but I'm going to forgo that.) We have recently discovered a couple of new fun games in our house:
I purchased this first one, Toss Up, at Target or Walmart a few weeks back. It is also available here. It is a PERFECT on-the-go type game because it literally is stored in a box that is smaller than a tin of Altoids.

The gist of the game is this, you are trying to roll the dice and work your way to 100 points. You get one point every time you roll a green. You have to be careful though because when you roll a red and no greens, you lose all your points in that roll.

It's a game of probability with chance thrown in for fun. Although it says 8 and up on the box, I really think younger kids might be able to play with adult help.

The second game is one that I like, but I haven't quite sold all my kids on yet. It's called, Bananagrams and is a little like Scrabble without the board. This game is also portable and can be played by kids from 7 and up.

The game is played simultaneously rather than by taking turns, so it makes it a bit of a race against other players. Players have to use all their tiles to connect words in crossword format. When they use their tiles, they call "peel" and everyone takes another tile. Play continues until there are no more tiles. The first player to use all their tiles to make words, calls "Bananas" and other players can check, to see if they agree that the words are legitimate.

These are BOTH fun and easy games to play. They require little set up and are portable.

What's your favorite game?

Unending Love....Amazing Grace!

I told you that I would follow up on the concert of last night...it was....well....

AMAZING!

Tomlin has such a heart for worship for today. The crowd was totally on their feet the whole night.

I had to laugh because we got in early and DS 4 kept saying, "I don't WANT to go up front." "Not too close, Mom". We sat in row nine and HE spent the evening totally UP FRONT standing in front of the stage with DS 2 and his GF!

Chris closed his concert with this new song called, God of this City. It will be out on the new Passion CD (pictured above) along with Amazing Grace (My Chains are Gone). The song was written literally in a bar by a Christian band who composed it while ON STAGE. The story is incredible. I have searched high and low for lyrics this morning and can't find them. But the gist is this....

Wherever you and I are, is "our city". And God wants to be the God of it. He wants to make changes in it. He wants to reign over it.

The CD will be out February 5th, so I'm sure we'll have lyrics soon.

As I head off to church today, I'm going with this beautiful picture of grace in my heart. I hope that you, too, have that knowledge of chains that are gone and being set free.

Amazing grace
How sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost, but now I'm found
Was blind, but now I see
'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear
And grace my fears relieved
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed
My chains are gone
I've been set free
My God, my Savior has ransomed me
And like a flood His mercy reigns
Unending love, Amazing grace!

It's a GRAND night for singing...

The boys (DSs 2, 3, 4) and I are headed out to an evening with Chris Tomlin. It should be great fun!

I'll report back later....

Not of this world...

I know that scripture says we are "not of this world." The other night, two teenagers reminded me that I'm REALLY NOT of this world...

While attending the Mr. R. High School contest, I had to leave for a moment. Two teenage boys came out right after me. They said, "Are we going to be able to get back in?" I tried the door and told them that if we shut it gently, we'd be fine.

Right after they headed off to the bathroom, two teen girls came out. They let the door go harder, but I thought, "Surely they would not lock you out when you have no choice but to go OUTSIDE the auditorium to the bathroom." So, off I went.

When I returned, the two girls were just ahead of me. They tried the door and sure enough, it was locked.

My first thought: "We'll wait until we hear clapping then knock to get someone to let us in...." I figured at the most it'd be five minutes.

Their first thought: "Don't worry, we'll text our friend who is inside and she'll come open it for us."

And we were in that door in 45 seconds flat!

Nope. I am NOT OF THIS WORLD! Or at least THEIR world!