Music has always had such an important place in my life. There are songs I remember singing as a child before I knew what the words meant. And songs I loved singing when I knew what the words meant. One of them is Harry Chapin's, A Better Place to Be.
This song takes place in a bar and involves some average people living hard lives. My favorite part has always been when the waitress says to the man, "I wish that I were beautiful or that you were halfway blind. I wish I weren't so dog gone fat and I wish that you were mine. I wish that you'd come with me when I leave for home cause we both know all about loneliness and living all alone."
I love his honesty in songwriting. You can picture these two people having this conversation. They look like people I know. People just trying to make it in this world. They've had troubles, losses, sadness. They've known joy, love, happiness, but it has been awhile and they are looking for the good times again. At some point, we've all been these two. We may have handled it different, but we understand. For those of us who aren't currently struggling with loneliness, be thankful. For those of us who wish there was someone special in our lives, I lift up a prayer for comfort, support, and love!
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Friday, November 19, 2010
A Few of My Favorite Things...
As Thanksgiving comes around, I am reminded of all in my life for which I am thankful. I try to be thankful daily and not just at Thanksgiving, but this time of year reminds me to say it publicly.
I am thankful for-
1.My husband. He makes me laugh. He smiles at me when I am not at my best. He turns on the fireplace even when he thinks it is already too hot in the house but I am cold. He does things he doesn't want to simply because he knows I do! He argues with me when I need a reminder that compromising is also a good option. He brings much joy to my life. Thank you!
2.My family. I thought about listing out all the members of my family, but it is a long list. I'm thankful for the countless phone calls with my parents and sister each day/week. I'm thankful for grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles, cousins, in-laws, so many people who love me and let me love them. Thank you family!
3.Friends. Again, this is an area where I could name everyone separately (and maybe I will in the future) but instead I'm just going to thank these people for journeying with me on this crazy ride called life!
4.Work that I enjoy! My job is great. I just got a job extension and will be continuing to work with these great people until my husband is out of school! Nice. Very thankful!
5.A comfortable place to live. We bought our house about 2.5 years ago and while it is mostly owned by a bank too big to fail I consider it ours. We can paint when we want. Fix what we want. Ignore that the carpeting needs replaced if we want. It is cozy and perfect for us.
6.My car. I love my car. I purchased this car when I was living in a Northern State. It was December and the heat went out on my 1993 Chevy Lumina. I toughed it out for almost a month. I went to the Honda dealership just to look around and drove out of their with my car. It now has over 133000 miles on it 6 years later and I still love it. Whenever it decides it needs to be retired (hopefully not for another 2 years), I'm buying another one just like it!
7.Health. As someone who often hears about what is wrong with the health of others, I am thankful for my health. I continue to pray for improved health for many that I love too.
8.Enough. I am thankful that we have enough. Somedays I have to remind myself I have enough! But I do and I know it. I want others to have enough too.
I am thankful for-
1.My husband. He makes me laugh. He smiles at me when I am not at my best. He turns on the fireplace even when he thinks it is already too hot in the house but I am cold. He does things he doesn't want to simply because he knows I do! He argues with me when I need a reminder that compromising is also a good option. He brings much joy to my life. Thank you!
2.My family. I thought about listing out all the members of my family, but it is a long list. I'm thankful for the countless phone calls with my parents and sister each day/week. I'm thankful for grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles, cousins, in-laws, so many people who love me and let me love them. Thank you family!
3.Friends. Again, this is an area where I could name everyone separately (and maybe I will in the future) but instead I'm just going to thank these people for journeying with me on this crazy ride called life!
4.Work that I enjoy! My job is great. I just got a job extension and will be continuing to work with these great people until my husband is out of school! Nice. Very thankful!
5.A comfortable place to live. We bought our house about 2.5 years ago and while it is mostly owned by a bank too big to fail I consider it ours. We can paint when we want. Fix what we want. Ignore that the carpeting needs replaced if we want. It is cozy and perfect for us.
6.My car. I love my car. I purchased this car when I was living in a Northern State. It was December and the heat went out on my 1993 Chevy Lumina. I toughed it out for almost a month. I went to the Honda dealership just to look around and drove out of their with my car. It now has over 133000 miles on it 6 years later and I still love it. Whenever it decides it needs to be retired (hopefully not for another 2 years), I'm buying another one just like it!
7.Health. As someone who often hears about what is wrong with the health of others, I am thankful for my health. I continue to pray for improved health for many that I love too.
8.Enough. I am thankful that we have enough. Somedays I have to remind myself I have enough! But I do and I know it. I want others to have enough too.
Monday, November 1, 2010
The Story of a Life
Growing up I listened to whatever music my parents listened to...I would say this was true for many people. I still enjoy singing along to Air Supply, but the artist who has stuck with me is Harry Chapin. He talked about how his songs were too long to be played on the radio and I can see that might be true, but they each are their own story and a real story.
I just heard Story of a Life. The end of the song goes like this...
Now sometimes words can serve me well
Sometimes words can go to hell
For all that they do.
And for every dream that took me high
There's been a dream that's passed me by.
I know it's so true
And I can see it clear out to the end
And I'll whisper to her now again
Because she shared my life.
For more than all the ghosts of glory
She makes up the story,
She's the only story
Of my life.
This song makes me thankful to the many people who have shared in my life and especially to the one person who promised to share my life. He stands by me, laughs with me, and makes up the story of my life. I love you!
I just heard Story of a Life. The end of the song goes like this...
Now sometimes words can serve me well
Sometimes words can go to hell
For all that they do.
And for every dream that took me high
There's been a dream that's passed me by.
I know it's so true
And I can see it clear out to the end
And I'll whisper to her now again
Because she shared my life.
For more than all the ghosts of glory
She makes up the story,
She's the only story
Of my life.
This song makes me thankful to the many people who have shared in my life and especially to the one person who promised to share my life. He stands by me, laughs with me, and makes up the story of my life. I love you!
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
I Wonder
Today I'm working on writing a Bible study about the call of Paul in Acts 9. Every time I read this passage I'm reminded of the song, The Day that Paul Fell Off His Horse. There is no horse in this passage. No horse. So many stories include a horse when talking about this passage. Why? How do things get started that have no basis in fact or the story? It makes me wonder.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Breathe
Another Sunday. That means another morning of me running from one place to the next, always late, always hurrying. It is tiring and inspiring. I love the time to see so many people I only see once a week. I wish there was a way to space out the time with them so it wasn't all at once.
I enjoy what I do. It is great to get to spend time with so many fabulous people. I get to walk with their on their journeys. I love it.
Some weeks I have to remind myself to slow down and breathe. Take a breath. So that is what I am pausing to do now...
I enjoy what I do. It is great to get to spend time with so many fabulous people. I get to walk with their on their journeys. I love it.
Some weeks I have to remind myself to slow down and breathe. Take a breath. So that is what I am pausing to do now...
Monday, October 4, 2010
The Middle
I can always tell when I need a vacation. Not the time when you just look out the window and want to be on a beach, I mean when you need a vacation. When it takes you twice as long as usual to do half as much work. When you can't remember something someone just told you because you can't focus. When you work hard and it just doesn't seem like enough. I'm there.
I've been working all day on getting ready for a meeting tonight. I keep getting distracted. My distraction is helping me to get other things done that also need attention, but it is not helping me get ready for tonight's meeting. It isn't a scary or horrible meeting. It is a meeting that requires lots of preparation and then hours of follow up tomorrow. So for the next three hours, I'll keep getting ready for this meeting and keep getting distracted and doing others things. Hopefully by the end of the day, I'll find myself in the middle...halfway between being overly prepared and forgetting everything I should have done.
I've been working all day on getting ready for a meeting tonight. I keep getting distracted. My distraction is helping me to get other things done that also need attention, but it is not helping me get ready for tonight's meeting. It isn't a scary or horrible meeting. It is a meeting that requires lots of preparation and then hours of follow up tomorrow. So for the next three hours, I'll keep getting ready for this meeting and keep getting distracted and doing others things. Hopefully by the end of the day, I'll find myself in the middle...halfway between being overly prepared and forgetting everything I should have done.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Good Enough
It is Thursday. Arriving at work, I soon realized this day is not going to go as I had planned. No problem, I'm flexible. By lunchtime, I've been dealing with this one issue all morning. Of course, this is not something from my to do list. It disrupts all my plans for the day, for tomorrow, and for the weekend. It's true, I'm crabby now. Plus, I have to confront someone. I do not enjoy confrontation. I can be good and mad at someone, but when I have to talk to them about it I find myself seeing their point of view and losing my anger. You might say this isn't a bad thing. It isn't as long as I'm not being stepped on or over all the time.
Well, I've eaten my lunch. I've played on the internet while eating to clear my mind. And now I'm going to pretend I've just started my day. I'm going to put the whole morning behind me and focus on what I need to do today! Today will be good enough in the end.
Well, I've eaten my lunch. I've played on the internet while eating to clear my mind. And now I'm going to pretend I've just started my day. I'm going to put the whole morning behind me and focus on what I need to do today! Today will be good enough in the end.
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Jeremiah was a bullfrog...
Months ago I said I was reading through the Bible this year. I've been trying to keep up with this even though I haven't been reading as faithfully as I would like. Today, I finished the book of Jeremiah! Woohoo!
And Jeremiah was more of a prophet than a bullfrog...tomorrow I'll be reading Lamentations.
And Jeremiah was more of a prophet than a bullfrog...tomorrow I'll be reading Lamentations.
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Swim
Just keep swimming!
So I've been taking swimming lessons. If you knew me, you would know what a big deal this is! At my very first lesson, I was in the deep end. I've never before willingly gone into the deep end before!!! Never. I've had about five lessons. Thing continue to improve. I've jumped into the deep end, done some water treading, and swam around in the deep end.
On Friday night, my husband gave me a lesson. We did lots of underwater bubble blowing. I swam underwater from side to side in the deep end. And I passed my swimming test. I decided my own personal swimming test was to jump into the deep end and swim to the other side. And Friday night I did it. I was so proud of myself. I'm not sure what I will do next after this amazing accomplishment. Go, me!!!!
So I've been taking swimming lessons. If you knew me, you would know what a big deal this is! At my very first lesson, I was in the deep end. I've never before willingly gone into the deep end before!!! Never. I've had about five lessons. Thing continue to improve. I've jumped into the deep end, done some water treading, and swam around in the deep end.
On Friday night, my husband gave me a lesson. We did lots of underwater bubble blowing. I swam underwater from side to side in the deep end. And I passed my swimming test. I decided my own personal swimming test was to jump into the deep end and swim to the other side. And Friday night I did it. I was so proud of myself. I'm not sure what I will do next after this amazing accomplishment. Go, me!!!!
Monday, August 23, 2010
Grace
Yesterday I talked with the children about grace during our kids' time in worship. I'll share what I said at the end of this blog post. As I was thinking about how to speak with them about grace and what it means, I found the lyrics to this U2 song called Grace. It ends like this...
Because Grace makes beauty out of ugly things.
Grace finds beauty in everything.
Grace finds goodness in everything.
Think on that for a bit.
Ephesians 1:3-14
August 22, 2010
This present was left in my office. It looks like it for you. What do you think is inside? (Give each child an opportunity to shake, hold, etc. the box).
Should we open it and see what is inside? (Allow the children to open it and look inside...Inside the box is a piece of paper with the word grace written on it.).
GRACE? What is grace? Why was it wrapped up as a present?
Grace is God’s freely given love for each of us.
What can we do to earn God’s love? Nothing. There is nothing we can do to earn God’s love.
Maybe that is why it was wrapped up in box for us. Grace is God’s gift to us. God loves us each and everyday. We can’t earn God’s love...what we can do is love others like God loves us.
I’d like to give you each a reminder of God’s grace. It is a picture of present with the word grace at the bottom of the page. When you hear the word grace, you can remember it is God’s gift of love to you!
Because Grace makes beauty out of ugly things.
Grace finds beauty in everything.
Grace finds goodness in everything.
Think on that for a bit.
Ephesians 1:3-14
August 22, 2010
This present was left in my office. It looks like it for you. What do you think is inside? (Give each child an opportunity to shake, hold, etc. the box).
Should we open it and see what is inside? (Allow the children to open it and look inside...Inside the box is a piece of paper with the word grace written on it.).
GRACE? What is grace? Why was it wrapped up as a present?
Grace is God’s freely given love for each of us.
What can we do to earn God’s love? Nothing. There is nothing we can do to earn God’s love.
Maybe that is why it was wrapped up in box for us. Grace is God’s gift to us. God loves us each and everyday. We can’t earn God’s love...what we can do is love others like God loves us.
I’d like to give you each a reminder of God’s grace. It is a picture of present with the word grace at the bottom of the page. When you hear the word grace, you can remember it is God’s gift of love to you!
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Realize
So today is one of those days that leaves me all tied up in knots...worrying about something that won't even happen for awhile, wondering what others think, pondering things I have no control over...you know one of those days.
On days like this I try (so hard) to realize I can't control everything. I can't control what others think. And I have enough to worry/think about with what is happening soon in my life. Why worry about so far into the future?
I want to realize that I need to stay right here in the present. Do what I can do right now. And not worry, worry, worry!
On days like this I try (so hard) to realize I can't control everything. I can't control what others think. And I have enough to worry/think about with what is happening soon in my life. Why worry about so far into the future?
I want to realize that I need to stay right here in the present. Do what I can do right now. And not worry, worry, worry!
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Ice Cream
So today I spent some time with an 8 year old from church. After our conversation, I decided I'd like to be 8 again. The gist of our conversation was that he was awesome at everything. I even asked if there was something he wasn't good at and he cocked his head a bit and thought and thought and thought. That's right. He couldn't think of anything he wasn't good at....I want that again. I want to run away from adulthood where we focus on what we aren't as good at or what we should improve. I want to believe I'm awesome at everything. I want to be 8 again!
Save Me
So each month, I write something for the church newsletter. Some months, it is easy. Some months (like right now!), it isn't. I've come to the point where I feel like I've said what I want to say. Do I repeat? Do I keep looking for something new and clever to say? Do I change the way I say what I already said?
I know people look forward to reading what I write (because they tell me so), but that doesn't make it any easier to come up with something right now! This typing may have helped. I'm thinking about the lyrics to Jesus Loves Me as a starting point. We sang it in church a few weeks ago and I think it might be the inspiration I need to get started. Let's see if this works!
I know people look forward to reading what I write (because they tell me so), but that doesn't make it any easier to come up with something right now! This typing may have helped. I'm thinking about the lyrics to Jesus Loves Me as a starting point. We sang it in church a few weeks ago and I think it might be the inspiration I need to get started. Let's see if this works!
Monday, May 10, 2010
Tonight I'm Gonna Cry
This sound just came up on pandora and seemed to fit my mood this week. I've been feeling sick since last Thursday with coughing and a sore throat yuck! I haven't been to the gym since then because I'm not breathing as well as I'd like. I finally gave in and went to the doctor who gave me some medicine to stop the coughing. I'm eagerly awaiting its cough stopping awesomeness.
My work is going to require lots of my energy, imagination, and strength this week. And so far I'm struggling to feel it. I've been working on what needs to be done. I just haven't gotten far enough into it to see the end.
So, maybe a break (and lots more water to drink!) and some quiet time will help me to recover enough of me to move through this challenging week. And if I cry tonight it is okay too.
My work is going to require lots of my energy, imagination, and strength this week. And so far I'm struggling to feel it. I've been working on what needs to be done. I just haven't gotten far enough into it to see the end.
So, maybe a break (and lots more water to drink!) and some quiet time will help me to recover enough of me to move through this challenging week. And if I cry tonight it is okay too.
Monday, May 3, 2010
Without You
So I'm spending this month more by myself than usual. In some ways, it is exciting to have more free time, more time to decide what I would like to do and do it. No decisions by committee this month. I know I'll enjoy parts of it. Also, I know I will be glad when the time comes to return to decisions by committee. That will mean that you know who is done with his rotation and I am no longer without him.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Seasons of Love
525, 600 minutes x 3
Yesterday, my husband and celebrated our 3rd wedding anniversary! It was our first opportunity to celebrate our anniversary on the actual anniversary day. How wonderful.
In honor of our special day, I'd like to share the words we danced to for our first dance.
Yesterday, my husband and celebrated our 3rd wedding anniversary! It was our first opportunity to celebrate our anniversary on the actual anniversary day. How wonderful.
In honor of our special day, I'd like to share the words we danced to for our first dance.
Five hundred twenty-five thousand
Six hundred minutes,
Five hundred twenty-five thousand
Moments so dear.
Five hundred twenty-five thousand
Six hundred minutes
How do you measure, measure a year?
In daylights, in sunsets, in midnights
In cups of coffee
In inches, in miles, in laughter, in strife.
In five hundred twenty-five thousand
Six hundred minutes
How do you measure
A year in the life?
How about love?
How about love?
How about love? Measure in love
Seasons of love. Seasons of love
Five hundred twenty-five thousand
Six hundred minutes!
Five hundred twenty-five thousand
Journeys to plan.
Five hundred twenty-five thousand
Six hundred minutes
How do you measure the life
Of a woman or a man?
In truths that she learned,
Or in times that he cried.
In bridges he burned,
Or the way that she died.
It's time now to sing out,
Tho' the story never ends
Let's celebrate
Remember a year in the life of friends
Remember the love!
Remember the love!
Seasons of love!
Oh you got to got to
Remember the love!
You know that love is a gift from up above
Share love, give love spread love
Measure measure your life in love.
Six hundred minutes,
Five hundred twenty-five thousand
Moments so dear.
Five hundred twenty-five thousand
Six hundred minutes
How do you measure, measure a year?
In daylights, in sunsets, in midnights
In cups of coffee
In inches, in miles, in laughter, in strife.
In five hundred twenty-five thousand
Six hundred minutes
How do you measure
A year in the life?
How about love?
How about love?
How about love? Measure in love
Seasons of love. Seasons of love
Five hundred twenty-five thousand
Six hundred minutes!
Five hundred twenty-five thousand
Journeys to plan.
Five hundred twenty-five thousand
Six hundred minutes
How do you measure the life
Of a woman or a man?
In truths that she learned,
Or in times that he cried.
In bridges he burned,
Or the way that she died.
It's time now to sing out,
Tho' the story never ends
Let's celebrate
Remember a year in the life of friends
Remember the love!
Remember the love!
Seasons of love!
Oh you got to got to
Remember the love!
You know that love is a gift from up above
Share love, give love spread love
Measure measure your life in love.
Celebrate, Jesus, Celebrate!
I first had the idea for this post on Monday. As I was reflecting on it, I realized it would be a great article for the church newsletter and so I submitted it as my letter for the newsletter for May.
On Easter Sunday at the 9am service, we sang, "Celebrate, Jesus, Celebrate...Come on and celebrate the resurrection of our Lord."
We are called to be people who celebrate. When we celebrate a church holiday, we are reminding ourselves that Jesus was born, lived, died, and rose again, that God loves each of us, and that the Holy Spirit is our constant companion.
When we celebrate birthdays, we have an opportunity to thank God for the gift of life. When we celebrate anniversaries, we can thank God that we are made to be in relationships with God and with each other.
Look around! There is much to celebrate. As you rejoice in the goodness around you, do not forget to say thank you to God! We do not have to wait for a birthday, anniversary, or church holiday to celebrate! Here are some more things to celebrate.
Starting a new job
Getting a driver's license
Changing of seasons
Loosing a tooth
Graduations
Getting braces (or getting them taken off!)
Having a job
End of the school year
Beginning of a new school year
The birth of a baby
Being healthy
Baptism
Visits from family and friends
Sunshine and rain
An ice cream cone on a warm day
Hot chocolate on a cold night
Take some prayer time this month to thank God for all you have to celebrate. As an individual, as a family, and as church family, we should all be on the lookout for reasons to celebrate because they are opportunities to thank our amazing God.
On Easter Sunday at the 9am service, we sang, "Celebrate, Jesus, Celebrate...Come on and celebrate the resurrection of our Lord."
We are called to be people who celebrate. When we celebrate a church holiday, we are reminding ourselves that Jesus was born, lived, died, and rose again, that God loves each of us, and that the Holy Spirit is our constant companion.
When we celebrate birthdays, we have an opportunity to thank God for the gift of life. When we celebrate anniversaries, we can thank God that we are made to be in relationships with God and with each other.
Look around! There is much to celebrate. As you rejoice in the goodness around you, do not forget to say thank you to God! We do not have to wait for a birthday, anniversary, or church holiday to celebrate! Here are some more things to celebrate.
Starting a new job
Getting a driver's license
Changing of seasons
Loosing a tooth
Graduations
Getting braces (or getting them taken off!)
Having a job
End of the school year
Beginning of a new school year
The birth of a baby
Being healthy
Baptism
Visits from family and friends
Sunshine and rain
An ice cream cone on a warm day
Hot chocolate on a cold night
Take some prayer time this month to thank God for all you have to celebrate. As an individual, as a family, and as church family, we should all be on the lookout for reasons to celebrate because they are opportunities to thank our amazing God.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
More Than This
Some days you just have to laugh because there is nothing left to do.
I love my job. Some days I am frustrated and grouchy and wonder why no one does what they say they will do. Some days I wonder why people do what they do??? Some days (like today) my only remaining option is to laugh because I don't understand what people are thinking, doing, not thinking, and not doing. So join me in laughing and rejoicing that there is more than this!
I love my job. Some days I am frustrated and grouchy and wonder why no one does what they say they will do. Some days I wonder why people do what they do??? Some days (like today) my only remaining option is to laugh because I don't understand what people are thinking, doing, not thinking, and not doing. So join me in laughing and rejoicing that there is more than this!
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
He's Alive!
We have entered the season of Easter. While I will miss the beautiful purple adorning the church, I am happy to be in the season of joy. The world outside is full of life and lots of yellow pollen! Lots of funny and fun things have happened recently that I'd like to share so I remember.
A debate/discussion erupted over whether Jesus might have served chocolate chip cookies at the last supper. My husband believes he did. I cannot agree with him because there was no chocolate in Jesus' area at that time (I learned lots about chocolate in my Mexican foods class while studying in Mexico in college) and cc cookies have leavening in them which is not kosher for passover! So while my husband holds onto his belief that Jesus served chocolate chip cookies and milk as the first communion, I refused to teach this to the children on Sunday morning!
On Sunday morning while telling the story of Holy Week to the children, one young girl summed up Easter's joy by saying, Yeah! Jesus is back. It makes me smile to think about this phrase. What a perfect way to celebrate the wonder that is Easter.
Since it is the Easter season and Jesus is alive, I'm going to make an extra effort to see where he is working in my life and in the lives of those I meet. Allelulia!
A debate/discussion erupted over whether Jesus might have served chocolate chip cookies at the last supper. My husband believes he did. I cannot agree with him because there was no chocolate in Jesus' area at that time (I learned lots about chocolate in my Mexican foods class while studying in Mexico in college) and cc cookies have leavening in them which is not kosher for passover! So while my husband holds onto his belief that Jesus served chocolate chip cookies and milk as the first communion, I refused to teach this to the children on Sunday morning!
On Sunday morning while telling the story of Holy Week to the children, one young girl summed up Easter's joy by saying, Yeah! Jesus is back. It makes me smile to think about this phrase. What a perfect way to celebrate the wonder that is Easter.
Since it is the Easter season and Jesus is alive, I'm going to make an extra effort to see where he is working in my life and in the lives of those I meet. Allelulia!
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Let all mortal flesh keep silence
The Lenten season is ending. It does not go out without a bang. For more than 40 days, we have been anticipating this time. The season of Lent prepares us for Easter. In order for us to get to Easter, we have to live through Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday. Not the easiest time to live through and live in.
As I child I remember Good Friday as my favorite worship service of the year. This may strike some people as strange. I love the somberness and the silence while leaving. It was so different from any other day in the church year. You could feel it. I miss that now. The churches I've served since seminary have not had Good Friday services. They've celebrated Maundy Thursday in a variety of ways but never Good Friday.
I should mention that my home church didn't worship on Maundy Thursday, so it is not unusual for a congregation to select one or the other.
Over the years, I've found ways to observe and honor this time of year myself. I'm not sure I've found the perfect way or a way that I use more than one time. I lead worship this evening with the congregation. Tomorrow I'll be spending the day with friends. There will be some prayer and Scripture reading...maybe a worship service or maybe not. Saturday, I'm not sure how I'll spend it. I will try to spend time in the moment and not looking ahead to Sunday. Live in the struggle and sadness for a few days...
As I child I remember Good Friday as my favorite worship service of the year. This may strike some people as strange. I love the somberness and the silence while leaving. It was so different from any other day in the church year. You could feel it. I miss that now. The churches I've served since seminary have not had Good Friday services. They've celebrated Maundy Thursday in a variety of ways but never Good Friday.
I should mention that my home church didn't worship on Maundy Thursday, so it is not unusual for a congregation to select one or the other.
Over the years, I've found ways to observe and honor this time of year myself. I'm not sure I've found the perfect way or a way that I use more than one time. I lead worship this evening with the congregation. Tomorrow I'll be spending the day with friends. There will be some prayer and Scripture reading...maybe a worship service or maybe not. Saturday, I'm not sure how I'll spend it. I will try to spend time in the moment and not looking ahead to Sunday. Live in the struggle and sadness for a few days...
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Step By Step
So last night at 6:30pm, I was at the gym. Step class to be exact. I love taking classes at the gym because they kick my butt. The cheery leader pushes me much harder than I am willing to push myself. I leave flushed, sweaty, with sore muscles, feeling like I've accomplished something. I love step class.
This makes me wonder...why do I not go to the classes more regularly? Why can't I schedule them into my routine?
Something to ponder as I plan to once again make an effort to get my butt kicked at the gym a more regular occurrence.
This makes me wonder...why do I not go to the classes more regularly? Why can't I schedule them into my routine?
Something to ponder as I plan to once again make an effort to get my butt kicked at the gym a more regular occurrence.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Wednesday
So Wednesdays are my break in the week, my me day, my get everything done that needs to be done at home day, and maybe sometimes my sabbath. They vary in how I spend them depending on what needs to be done or what I want to do. They often include some laundry, some exercise, and some reading. I look forward to these days. This semester they have been alone days too. My husband has class all day long on Wednesdays, so my time is more my own. Some weeks I like having a day to myself. Other weeks I miss the Wednesdays we would spend together.
So far today has been spent with the washer and dryer, watching some tv, making phone calls, and sorting through some items to add to my 40 items to give away in Lent. Oh yeah, there was also a nap in there. Before leaving for school, my husband did attempt to recreate this delicious french toast he had in DC. More attempts will have to be made before he achieves this goal!
I like Wednesdays because although I have a list of things I'd like to get done I know that if they do not get done it will be alright. It is a slower paced day when I allow it to be. It is a day for throwing open the windows and letting the fresh air in and walking outside and enjoying creation. I love Wednesdays!
So far today has been spent with the washer and dryer, watching some tv, making phone calls, and sorting through some items to add to my 40 items to give away in Lent. Oh yeah, there was also a nap in there. Before leaving for school, my husband did attempt to recreate this delicious french toast he had in DC. More attempts will have to be made before he achieves this goal!
I like Wednesdays because although I have a list of things I'd like to get done I know that if they do not get done it will be alright. It is a slower paced day when I allow it to be. It is a day for throwing open the windows and letting the fresh air in and walking outside and enjoying creation. I love Wednesdays!
Monday, March 22, 2010
Morning Has Broken
I'm not much of a morning person or a camping person. It's true! This past weekend I had the opportunity to be both and I enjoyed it. I was the adult in charge of driving and chaperoning two fabulous youth from my church. The three of us joined many more adults and middle school youth near the coast. It was a wonderful weekend.
The retreat was well organized and gave high school youth leadership opportunities. As an adult, I had very few responsibilities and I greatly appreciated that.
On Saturday morning, the sun was already up by the time I left the cabin. On Sunday morning, I was up before the sun. I didn't sit and watch the sun rise. I did spend some time enjoying the boats sailing up/down the river, watching the waves tickle the shore, and enjoying the quiet (which was a little hard to find!)
I think getting back to nature is so important for all of us (even those of us who love things like hot showers and comfortable beds). I appreciate the sand I tracked into the cabin (and into my house when I returned). I appreciate the smiles that my youth had when they said this is such a great place I can't wait to come back. I appreciate singing and dancing and laughing with new friends and old friends. I appreciate driving home sleeping youth who didn't need to sleep at night and weren't tired on the way home!
and I appreciate returning to my home, hugging my husband (who encouraged me to take a shower!), and taking a nice long nap in my bed.
The retreat was well organized and gave high school youth leadership opportunities. As an adult, I had very few responsibilities and I greatly appreciated that.
On Saturday morning, the sun was already up by the time I left the cabin. On Sunday morning, I was up before the sun. I didn't sit and watch the sun rise. I did spend some time enjoying the boats sailing up/down the river, watching the waves tickle the shore, and enjoying the quiet (which was a little hard to find!)
I think getting back to nature is so important for all of us (even those of us who love things like hot showers and comfortable beds). I appreciate the sand I tracked into the cabin (and into my house when I returned). I appreciate the smiles that my youth had when they said this is such a great place I can't wait to come back. I appreciate singing and dancing and laughing with new friends and old friends. I appreciate driving home sleeping youth who didn't need to sleep at night and weren't tired on the way home!
and I appreciate returning to my home, hugging my husband (who encouraged me to take a shower!), and taking a nice long nap in my bed.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
The Car
Today I had a meeting about an hour from my office. Plenty of car time today. Normally in the car, I'm an NPR junkie. I get most of my news from NPR. I love almost all the shows. Some I like so much I can't stand missing them so I get the podcast and listen while doing dishes (yes, I admit my favorite is Marketplace Money with Tess Vigland!)
As part of my giving away 40 things in Lent, I've been wanting to go through my CD collection. I rarely listen to them anymore and I have a box of them waiting to be unpacked from our move two years ago! So I grabbed a few CDs on my way out the door this morning. My hope was that I would find some that didn't work or I didn't like anymore.
I popped in the first CD-Rascal Flatts. I was excited. I sang along with Praying for Daylight and this Everyday Love. Then I noticed I wasn't enjoying the songs as much. I didn't find another one I was in love with until the 11th track which is I'm Moving On.
By this time, I was smiling and singing along. I popped in a random pink CD. No writing. I was guessing it was a masterpiece of odds and ends selected by my sister and I was right. As I was singing along with songs I hadn't heard in awhile, I realized I miss singing. Don't get me wrong, I love NPR. I will continue to listen regularly. And I will sometimes pop in a favorite CD and sing loudly, dance around in my seat (while driving the speed limit, checking my mirrors and obeying all driving rules and regulations!), and enjoy myself while driving.
A bright sunny day and a good CD are all it takes to put me in a good mood when I'm on road to a meeting.
As part of my giving away 40 things in Lent, I've been wanting to go through my CD collection. I rarely listen to them anymore and I have a box of them waiting to be unpacked from our move two years ago! So I grabbed a few CDs on my way out the door this morning. My hope was that I would find some that didn't work or I didn't like anymore.
I popped in the first CD-Rascal Flatts. I was excited. I sang along with Praying for Daylight and this Everyday Love. Then I noticed I wasn't enjoying the songs as much. I didn't find another one I was in love with until the 11th track which is I'm Moving On.
By this time, I was smiling and singing along. I popped in a random pink CD. No writing. I was guessing it was a masterpiece of odds and ends selected by my sister and I was right. As I was singing along with songs I hadn't heard in awhile, I realized I miss singing. Don't get me wrong, I love NPR. I will continue to listen regularly. And I will sometimes pop in a favorite CD and sing loudly, dance around in my seat (while driving the speed limit, checking my mirrors and obeying all driving rules and regulations!), and enjoy myself while driving.
A bright sunny day and a good CD are all it takes to put me in a good mood when I'm on road to a meeting.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
I Will Remember You
My Dad called me this morning to tell me my great Aunt Kay had died this morning. She was an amazing woman who lived a good long life. This phone call has me thinking about the many wonderful people I have known in my life who are no long living among us. I believe they live on in our hearts and our memories. I would not be who I am today without the many people who helped me along this journey...
Here are some remembrances of some of them.
My grandfather. He was so supportive of me, interested in my life, and a loving man. I remember summer vacations spent in their garden (wearing my boots, of course), eating at the picnic table, going to Sea World and fairs, riding on the sulky behind the lawn mower, and so much more.
My godparents. I adopted them as confirmation sponsors and godparents as a teenager. I loved these two people like they were my grandparents and they attended events for me that my grandparents couldn't. I was honored to participate in both of their funerals. What a wonderful way to celebrate the support they offered me on my faith journey.
Great Uncles and Aunt. Growing up I got to spend a good amount of time with the extended relatives on my Dad's side. I have fond memories of spending time at their houses, eating out with them, and learning about their lives. I cannot imagine my childhood without them.
My husband's Grandpa and Grandma. Sadly I only met his Grandma once. She was a dear woman. I love to hear stories about her and wish I had gotten to know her better. I got to spend more time with his Grandpa including this past Christmas when my husband tried to restrict Grandpa's candy eating. I stuck up for Grandpa and gave him a second piece. He enjoyed it.
There are so many others who have helped me grow into the person I am. Usually when I think of them, I smile and laugh at memories. On days like today it can be hard to remember without being a little sad that they are no longer here with me. I think of the important events they missed and the important people they never met. I cry a little and then offer prayers of thanksgiving for their lives and for having known them.
Here are some remembrances of some of them.
My grandfather. He was so supportive of me, interested in my life, and a loving man. I remember summer vacations spent in their garden (wearing my boots, of course), eating at the picnic table, going to Sea World and fairs, riding on the sulky behind the lawn mower, and so much more.
My godparents. I adopted them as confirmation sponsors and godparents as a teenager. I loved these two people like they were my grandparents and they attended events for me that my grandparents couldn't. I was honored to participate in both of their funerals. What a wonderful way to celebrate the support they offered me on my faith journey.
Great Uncles and Aunt. Growing up I got to spend a good amount of time with the extended relatives on my Dad's side. I have fond memories of spending time at their houses, eating out with them, and learning about their lives. I cannot imagine my childhood without them.
My husband's Grandpa and Grandma. Sadly I only met his Grandma once. She was a dear woman. I love to hear stories about her and wish I had gotten to know her better. I got to spend more time with his Grandpa including this past Christmas when my husband tried to restrict Grandpa's candy eating. I stuck up for Grandpa and gave him a second piece. He enjoyed it.
There are so many others who have helped me grow into the person I am. Usually when I think of them, I smile and laugh at memories. On days like today it can be hard to remember without being a little sad that they are no longer here with me. I think of the important events they missed and the important people they never met. I cry a little and then offer prayers of thanksgiving for their lives and for having known them.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Give Thanks with a Grateful Heart
Last night at youth group I invited the youth to join in an alphabet of thanks. Our goal was to come up with something for every letter of the alphabet we wanted to thank God for...here is our list!
A-all things living---answers
B-being with friends/family---beach
C-cats---chargrill
D-dogs---dads---decisions---donuts
E-everything/everyone/everywhere---each other
F-flutes---friends---family---french fries
G-God
H-(shiny) happy people---heaven and above---hugs---history---hot dogs and orange soda
I-ice cream
J-jelly beans---Jesus
K-kissing babies---karate---kids
L-life---love---lessons
M-moms---memories---mountains---McDonald's
N-nature
O-onion tater tots---onion rings
P-pigs---peace---prayer---pugs
Q-questions
R-rainbows---rain---Roy G Biv
S-siblings---stardust---Susan(nah)---stargirl---sunshine---school
T-togetherness
U-underwear---unity---USA
V-vaccines---Vancouver---vacations
W-wii---water---waffle cones
X-xylophone
Y-youth---yaks
Z-zen
A-all things living---answers
B-being with friends/family---beach
C-cats---chargrill
D-dogs---dads---decisions---donuts
E-everything/everyone/everywhere---each other
F-flutes---friends---family---french fries
G-God
H-(shiny) happy people---heaven and above---hugs---history---hot dogs and orange soda
I-ice cream
J-jelly beans---Jesus
K-kissing babies---karate---kids
L-life---love---lessons
M-moms---memories---mountains---McDonald's
N-nature
O-onion tater tots---onion rings
P-pigs---peace---prayer---pugs
Q-questions
R-rainbows---rain---Roy G Biv
S-siblings---stardust---Susan(nah)---stargirl---sunshine---school
T-togetherness
U-underwear---unity---USA
V-vaccines---Vancouver---vacations
W-wii---water---waffle cones
X-xylophone
Y-youth---yaks
Z-zen
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Time in a Bottle
Well, everyone who knows me is aware that this is my least favorite holiday of the year. Who thought it would be a good idea to steal an hour of sleep from me? I do realize that the stealing of sleep in the spring leads to an extra hour in the fall. I know this and yet I have no desire to give up my extra hour of sleep!
When I was young and complained I didn't have enough time to do everything I wanted to do, my dad would always tell me that I had exactly enough time to do what I wanted to do. It was all about choices. Maybe that is why I don't like this night. It isn't my choice to wake up tomorrow and it is dark and I'm all confused about the time. And, I know that most people do not have to get up early tomorrow. For me, it is my earliest morning of the week!
I'll let Time in a Bottle finish this up.
"But there never seems to be enough time to do the things you want to do once you find them. I've looked around enough to know that you're the one I'd like to go through time with."
When I was young and complained I didn't have enough time to do everything I wanted to do, my dad would always tell me that I had exactly enough time to do what I wanted to do. It was all about choices. Maybe that is why I don't like this night. It isn't my choice to wake up tomorrow and it is dark and I'm all confused about the time. And, I know that most people do not have to get up early tomorrow. For me, it is my earliest morning of the week!
I'll let Time in a Bottle finish this up.
"But there never seems to be enough time to do the things you want to do once you find them. I've looked around enough to know that you're the one I'd like to go through time with."
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Power of Two
I have returned from an amazing trip with my husband to Charleston, SC. What a wonderful place to visit. For a bit, I thought maybe we should move there. Then I found it the city is below sea level and I had to change my plans. I have a problem with living in places that are below sea level.
Today it was back to work and the real world. Not a bad day back. Got a good amount of work done and have some to do tomorrow too.
We ate the very last of our cupcakes tonight from Cupcake. If you are in Charleston, you have to try them out. Or you can drool over the thought of them by viewing them online. http://www.freshcupcakes.com/
To sum it all up, it was a great time away with a great person!
"And if we ever leave a legacy, it's that we loved each other well."
Today it was back to work and the real world. Not a bad day back. Got a good amount of work done and have some to do tomorrow too.
We ate the very last of our cupcakes tonight from Cupcake. If you are in Charleston, you have to try them out. Or you can drool over the thought of them by viewing them online. http://www.freshcupcakes.com/
To sum it all up, it was a great time away with a great person!
"And if we ever leave a legacy, it's that we loved each other well."
Thursday, March 4, 2010
California Dreaming
Well, I'm not sure I'm dreaming of California. I am dreaming of some time away from everyday life. And that happens this Saturday. Rich and I are headed off to Charleston SC for a few days. I've never been and he has only been for a short time. Should be a great time.
This is the time of year when I seem to struggle with creativity and energy and excitement. Maybe because it is Lent. Maybe because winter seems to last just a little too long. I don't know why. I remember when I was in Wisconsin everyone tried to take a trip away in March. It was the time those hearty snow-loving people threw up their hands and said we need to be somewhere without snow. Maybe that has become a part of my thinking.
So I'm excited for this time away. I think we'll be looking to the future and (maybe) deciding where we will be after May 2012. I hope we'll laugh and eat and walk and enjoy the sunshine. I hope it will leave me refreshed for ministry and the rest of Lent!
Update-I've finally selected hotels (We are staying in a variety of places to get a feeling of Charleston) and made reservations! Ready for vacation!
This is the time of year when I seem to struggle with creativity and energy and excitement. Maybe because it is Lent. Maybe because winter seems to last just a little too long. I don't know why. I remember when I was in Wisconsin everyone tried to take a trip away in March. It was the time those hearty snow-loving people threw up their hands and said we need to be somewhere without snow. Maybe that has become a part of my thinking.
So I'm excited for this time away. I think we'll be looking to the future and (maybe) deciding where we will be after May 2012. I hope we'll laugh and eat and walk and enjoy the sunshine. I hope it will leave me refreshed for ministry and the rest of Lent!
Update-I've finally selected hotels (We are staying in a variety of places to get a feeling of Charleston) and made reservations! Ready for vacation!
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy. That's the Pentateuch of Moses.
I'd like to thank Bryan Sirchio for helping me learn the books of the Bible. When I need to find a hard to find book, I start singing one of his songs.
So, I decided at the end of 2009 to read through the Bible in a year. I've read through the Bible when I was younger. I don't remember how long it took me. I knew if I was going to make it through the Bible again I needed a deadline. So I came up with this read it through in one year idea. I realize this isn't a revolutionary idea. I could even buy a Bible to help me read the Bible in one year. Instead, I counted up the number of chapters in the Bible to see if this was even a reasonable idea. I don't remember how many chapters there are exactly, but I did find out that I needed to read about 3.5 chapters per day to stay on target.
So it is March 2nd and I have completed the Pentateuch and Joshua. Today I read 4 chapters in Judges which puts the chapter count up to 215. If you divide that by the 61 days so far in 2010, you will see that I have read 3.52 chapters per day.
For those of you who know me well, you will be sure to guess that I haven't read 3.52 chapters each day. More likely I have read chunks here and there when I couldn't put it down and struggled to read the 3 chapters a day when I found myself in a less fun part of the Bible.
So far this year, I've learned lots and rediscovered many things. I'm enjoying my journey back through a favorite book of books. I'll keep you updated on my progress throughout the year!
So, I decided at the end of 2009 to read through the Bible in a year. I've read through the Bible when I was younger. I don't remember how long it took me. I knew if I was going to make it through the Bible again I needed a deadline. So I came up with this read it through in one year idea. I realize this isn't a revolutionary idea. I could even buy a Bible to help me read the Bible in one year. Instead, I counted up the number of chapters in the Bible to see if this was even a reasonable idea. I don't remember how many chapters there are exactly, but I did find out that I needed to read about 3.5 chapters per day to stay on target.
So it is March 2nd and I have completed the Pentateuch and Joshua. Today I read 4 chapters in Judges which puts the chapter count up to 215. If you divide that by the 61 days so far in 2010, you will see that I have read 3.52 chapters per day.
For those of you who know me well, you will be sure to guess that I haven't read 3.52 chapters each day. More likely I have read chunks here and there when I couldn't put it down and struggled to read the 3 chapters a day when I found myself in a less fun part of the Bible.
So far this year, I've learned lots and rediscovered many things. I'm enjoying my journey back through a favorite book of books. I'll keep you updated on my progress throughout the year!
Monday, March 1, 2010
Give Me a Clean Heart
I find myself smack dab in the middle of the Lenten season again. For the past few years in Lent, I've gotten rid of 40 things during the 40 days. It is an interesting and difficult process. I love to do it while struggling to let go of the things I think I need or might need in the future. It helps me to remember I have too much stuff and that can hold me back instead of helping me.
One of my hopes with this discipline is that with the extra space in my life and my house I'll find more time for God. I don't know that this is true unless I make the effort to put more time in my relationship with God. So less stuff does not immediately equal more time. I'll update you on the things I've removed from my house in case you are in need of inspiration this Lenten season.
1-Purple Sweatshirt
2-DVD Player (it was broken and I've been wanting to recycle it. Staples recycles them!)
3-TV (We had too many. This TV now resides in Florida with friends!)
4-20 pairs of sock (My sock drawer closes now!)
5-3 books
6-8 magazines
7-6 Chicken Soup for the Soul Books
8-3 more sweatshirts
9-7 bottles of body wash
10-Giant Coke Cooler (this has been living at my parent's house for a few years. I've finally given them the okay to sell it at the church yard sale.)
11-Coke dishes (so this one is a bit of a struggle. These were also found at my parent's house. I want to give them away and am also wanting to keep them. I'm going to let go of them but not easily!)
12-Flowered Garment Bag (again, found at parent's house!)
13-Cleaned out two bags that have been in my office for a year. Lots of recycling and some filing too!
14-2 bags of food for the food pantry!
15-3 sweaters
16-1 bottle of shampoo
17-3 plastic containers
18-bag of hotel soaps and shampoo
19-2 pairs of shoes
20-40 thank you cards
21-8 skeins of yarn
22-1 pair of sunglasses
23-15 VHS movies
24-15 cassette tapes
25-10 CDs
26-bag and box of stuff from office
27-overflowing bag of clothes
28-3 pairs of boxers
29-101 cookie cutters
30-3 cell phones
31-mailed a package to Montana
32-mailed a package to Indiana
33-gave away a gift that didn't suit me
34-10 packs of post-its
35-4 belts
36-a pan of brownies was shared with pharm students!
37-25 more magazines went to the thrift store!
38-40 My husband and I filled two huge bags and more with clothes etc to give to a family who lost everything in a house fire.
I'll be giving away some more stuff when my parents arrive with their van in a few weeks. Here ends my Lenten giving away!
One of my hopes with this discipline is that with the extra space in my life and my house I'll find more time for God. I don't know that this is true unless I make the effort to put more time in my relationship with God. So less stuff does not immediately equal more time. I'll update you on the things I've removed from my house in case you are in need of inspiration this Lenten season.
1-Purple Sweatshirt
2-DVD Player (it was broken and I've been wanting to recycle it. Staples recycles them!)
3-TV (We had too many. This TV now resides in Florida with friends!)
4-20 pairs of sock (My sock drawer closes now!)
5-3 books
6-8 magazines
7-6 Chicken Soup for the Soul Books
8-3 more sweatshirts
9-7 bottles of body wash
10-Giant Coke Cooler (this has been living at my parent's house for a few years. I've finally given them the okay to sell it at the church yard sale.)
11-Coke dishes (so this one is a bit of a struggle. These were also found at my parent's house. I want to give them away and am also wanting to keep them. I'm going to let go of them but not easily!)
12-Flowered Garment Bag (again, found at parent's house!)
13-Cleaned out two bags that have been in my office for a year. Lots of recycling and some filing too!
14-2 bags of food for the food pantry!
15-3 sweaters
16-1 bottle of shampoo
17-3 plastic containers
18-bag of hotel soaps and shampoo
19-2 pairs of shoes
20-40 thank you cards
21-8 skeins of yarn
22-1 pair of sunglasses
23-15 VHS movies
24-15 cassette tapes
25-10 CDs
26-bag and box of stuff from office
27-overflowing bag of clothes
28-3 pairs of boxers
29-101 cookie cutters
30-3 cell phones
31-mailed a package to Montana
32-mailed a package to Indiana
33-gave away a gift that didn't suit me
34-10 packs of post-its
35-4 belts
36-a pan of brownies was shared with pharm students!
37-25 more magazines went to the thrift store!
38-40 My husband and I filled two huge bags and more with clothes etc to give to a family who lost everything in a house fire.
I'll be giving away some more stuff when my parents arrive with their van in a few weeks. Here ends my Lenten giving away!
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