In ALL things show thanks!

....most of us show thanks for the good things, but how often are we thankful for the unpleasant things. (i.e. the poison ivy). I have heard that saying so many times throughout my life, but it never emotionally sunk in.  I have always understood that I should thankful, because things could always be worse....but to be thankful for the bad stuff???? I never got it....until recently.

Through my past posts, you can see that I was dealing with the stress of what I consider a deep betrayal.  I wanted so much to shut down, but I never did.  People around me thought that I was psycho, because I was so calm.  So much so that I started to wonder if something might be wrong with me.  But there wasn't, I had the peace that God promised he would give if we allow him to.  I had never felt it before, but I am so glad that I did.  It allowed me to think clearly and to continue to move forward.  I am thankful for that painful time, because it taught me how to let go and let God, it allowed me to truly forgive and it made me stronger.  It took away the weakness of fear and anger.  I learned so much and gained so much and I am very thankful.  I am thankful for the pain that brought me a new understanding of myself and new beginning.

Why have I been MIA for a while?...well that brings me to something else that I am thankful for....a diagnosis. Myofascial Fybromyalgia.  It is a life-long illness, but not a degenerative or terminal illness and for that I am thankful.  I take medication twice a day.  Am I in pain everyday?  Yes. I'm in pain right now.  Do my thoughts get jumbled? Yes.  Is it a struggle everyday to get up everyday, because of the sleep issues and fatigue? Yes.  My life has changed substantially.  My children's lives and my husband's life has been changed. Why then am I thankful?  First, because I was commanded to do so and I have seen what comes from truly being thankful in ALL things.  Secondly, I want my children to learn this lesson at a young age and not to waste time in moments of "why me?" or times of confusion, self pity or unnecessary sadness.  I am also thankful that I was reminded that I am not invincible.  I cherish the times with my family more.  I always cherished it, but it changes when you no longer believe that you will always be around, that there will always be more time.  I am thankful for the reminder to appreciate the pain free, quiet times. To have as much fun as I can, while I can, because I don't know what tomorrow may be like...or the next hour for that matter.  I am thankful that my boys have taken this in stride.  They step up in times when they see I can't and they do it in a way that doesn't make me feel insecure or saddened for my inability to act.  My illness is making them better gentlemen. Their future wives can thank me later. : ) My husband has stepped up in ways that I never thought possible.  He does not do well with hospitals, doctors or having to see me or the boys in any kind of pain.  In fact, I have to make him go to doctor appointments and he avoids hospitals as much as possible. He says that he can smell sickness when he walks in the door. Lol.  But, he refused to miss any of my appointments, he held my hand as they took my blood, he dressed me, fed me, held my hand while I cried from pain and fear.  He never flinched.  We often take into account that we will have to take care of an aging spouse at some point, but I'm 36.  That's alot to take on in the prime of your life.  But, he didn't flinch.  I still struggle with the guilt of not being able to do as much as before, for constantly saying I don't feel well and having to say "I can't".  He says, "that's okay, go lay down, take a break, I'll get it or, I will always take care of you".  He doesn't flinch.  I am thankful that my illness has brought an awareness of how much people love me.  Calls, prayers, cards.  It has reminded me to let people outside of my family know that I appreciate and/or love them and to not just wait for a special occasion or when I think they need to hear it the most.  People need that everyday.  I need that everyday.  It pushes you to take one more step when you feel like you can't go any farther.  It's energy.  It's strength.

I am thankful and I am proud of myself.  This journey has brought me to a new milestone.  I have learned to truly show thanks in ALL things!

To learn more about Fibromyalgia click here.  My journey down this road has just begun and I don't know where it will lead.   My understanding is that the symptoms will never go away, but through learning coping skills and medication it will get better.  If you suffer from Fibromyalgia or know someone that does, please share what is working for them or for you and I will do the same...until next time....

Lemons to Lemonade

Over the last 6-8 weeks, my highs have been really high and my lows have been really low.  I finished my class with an A, continued to become very comfortable and settled with sharing how I feel (respectfully but uncensored and unfiltered), I'm back to being a soccer and football mom and then........one morning I woke up and could not move.  Everything joint in my body hurt and my muscles and body were completely fatigued.  Thirty-five vials of blood, x-rays, a bone biopsy, a bone marrow biopsy, a rheumatologist, a hematologist/oncologist and weeks later.....still no diagnosis.  I've heard whispers of leukemia, bone cancer, lupus, and arthritis.  I had not been so unsettled in all of my life.  Not for fear of a diagnosis, but the waiting.  Thank God, they have ruled out everything they could think of....they were scary things and I was ready to fight, but where does that leave me?  I am doing much better now. Still a medicine lab rat and achy from time to time, but drastic a improvement. The only thing that bothers me is that there is no diagnosis. Will this continue to get better, go away or come back again one morning?  I don't know, but I can't or won't stop living while I am waiting to find out.  I am going to do what I can...

My bone marrow biopsy came back clean, so I immediately registered my info on the National Bone Marrow Registry.  I was blessed not to have cancer and if I can help someone else beat cancer I will.  The biopsy was not pleasant by any means, but I know it doesn't compare to the emotional or physical suffering that cancer patients have to  deal with every day. (I had a SMALL taste myself) ....My boys and I will be participating in a 30 hour famine fundraiser.  We will be educating ourselves on the suffering around the world, raising money and fasting for 30 hrs to experience what it is like to truly be hungry. (More info will come soon on how you can learn more, donate or join us.)  We are blessed and we need to recognize that everyday there is someone that would thankful for the things that we often take for granted.

I was given lemons, but I choose to make lemonade and I plan to make sure that it is a never-ending glass. : )

First Test Done!!!!

I just finished my first exam and a weight has truly been lifted off of my shoulders. Now all I have to do is  stress about how well I did until I get my grade. ;  ) Wish me luck!

Late night.

First of all, CONGRATULATIONS! to all that have recently graduated...especially my niece Brentney. You are truly my hero.

So much going on...I am trying to plan two birthday celebrations, help plan my niece's graduation party, choose and coordinate summer camps/plans and study.  That's right, study.  Due to recent events in my life it has become a must that I seek employment.  I am currently taking my last class towards becoming a Medical Reimbursement Specialist. That's just a fancy way of saying that I will be working in coding and billing for medical facilities. ; ) I just finished reading and three workbook pages and I am exhausted.  A full day of being a teacher, a mom of two boys (and all that entails and yes it makes a difference that I have boys..those that have boys definitely understand...OMG!), laundry, cooking, etc. and now two additional hours of studying. YAY!..NOT! I like what I am studying and I pray that it will be worth it, but I am just tired. BUT, my boys are definitely worth it.  They don't live an extravagant lifestyles by any means, so I want to make sure that they will always be able to have access to the things that mean alot to them.  Like I said, they are worth it. Well, as a pick me up, I'm about to sign off and have some jello that my boys made and set aside just for me.  Ryan said that he wanted me to eat it today...technically it's already tomorrow, but he's sleeping so it will be our little secret. wink. wink. I hope that I can stay awake long enough to eat it. My boys love and take care of me and I will do WHATEVER I have to for them.  Because I love them and again, because they are worth it. ; ) Enough rambling....It's Jello time! Nite. nite or technically Morning...anyway bye!

~You may not always reap where you sow, but you will reap what you sow.~

Serenity Prayer

I need serenity.....
"God grant me the serenity to accept the things that I cannot change; courage to change the things that I can; and the wisdom to know the difference."

Want -vs- Have

"Don't let the things you want make you forget about the things you have."
                                                                                                                      ~Actor, Rapper "Ice T"~

Reminder: Don't judge the messenger, just listen to the message.

Show and Prove

"In the streets we say, you gotta show and prove.  Words are easy.  You can say it all day and then out another way. You gotta show and prove."

                                                                                                                       ~Actor, Rapper "Ice T"~

Gum, water and a blueberry muffin...

I just realized that is all that I have eaten today......a piece of gum, some water and a blueberry muffin.  I know, I know, I know.  That is not healthy. I fuss at everyone in my family and even people that aren't about eating properly and drinking water.  I struggle to do both.  Lately, anyway.  It's not like I get hungry and choose not to eat.  I'm not hungry.  I chewed the gum, because I felt like it.  I drank the water not because I was thirsty, but because I knew that I should and I needed something to wash down my vitamins.Yes, I realize how crazy that sounds. (Like ordering a double cheeseburger, chili fries and a diet coke. I get it.) My son asked for spaghetti tonight and I had every intention of eating, but didn't feel like it. (I washed dishes instead.) I made blueberry muffins for dessert and realizing that I needed to have something solid in my stomach overnight, (every once in a while I get hypoglycemic) I ate one.  I should be starving, but I'm not.  My stomach shuts down when I'm busy or stressed. I know that I have to do better.  My boys are depending on me. I have to stay well.  I will do better tomorrow.  It's in writing, now I have to do better. ; ) Maybe I'll bump it up to two pieces of gum tomorrow...just kidding.

Homemade Mirror/Glass Cleaner

When I told my boys that I was going to start making my own cleaning supplies, they laughed and just said okay mom.  They expect these kind of things from me.  I am always looking for the healthy, economical route. The ideas don't always work out (ex. our kefir experiment for one...OMG!), but my boys always appease me and applaud my efforts. I will forever love them for that. They were probably happy that this was something that weren't going to have to eat. ; ) Anyway, there are alot of recipes out there, some cost as much or more than store bought, some seem like they would require a lab and some just don't work.  This one does! All that you need is alcohol (isopropyl or ethyl), white distilled vinegar, water and cornstarch. That's it!  Oh, and a new spray bottle. That's it, I promise.

Here's what you do:

Mix 1/4 cup of alcohol, 1/4 cup of vinegar, 1tbsp. cornstarch and two cups of warm water in the water bottle and shake. Easy enough? Cause your done. Clean as usual using paper towels, newspaper or a microfiber cloth. And no, it doesn't smell. ; )  *Shake well before each use*

Pat yourself on the back. You have saved money, created something and found a new use for cornstarch. You should feel like a superhero!  ; ) This works great on windows, mirrors and chrome. (and probably a few other things, but I can't speak to them yet) I will say to brace yourself, because you're about to see pores that you didn't know that you had. This stuff is great!

*You can use alcohol with mint, if you like to have a light clean scent.

Is getting even worth it?...

This was one of the scriptures covered in Bible Class:

"do not return evil for evil or insult for insult, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing" 1 Peter 3:9

This scripture really hit home for me today.  I go out of my way not to hurt others.  So when someone hurts me, I really take it to heart.  It's like secretly giving someone something that they really need and then they turn around and steal from you.... or like keeping someone's secrets while you know they are running around telling all of your secrets or even worse, making up stories about you. It's maddening.  You could retaliate, but you don't.  You would think that would be appreciated, but often it opens you up to more hurt, because now your kindness or loyalty is seen as weakness.  It's not easy and I am definitely not perfect at it, but you can't allow anyone to provoke you into giving away your blessings. No matter how hard they try......

Today was a good day. Sometimes it takes someone else to remind you that you are special! Knowing who you are is one thing, but being reminded by someone else is something totally different.  ;  )

Avery Got Her Wings..Rest in Peace Angel!

Many of you may have heard of a baby girl named Avery Canahuati who was suffering from SMA. Those with SMA rarely survive past the age of two.  Avery was five months old and had created a blog in order to bring awareness to SMA and to chronicle her marking things off of her "bucket list".  I had just become a frequent visitor of her blog last week and was truly saddened and brought to tears to find out that she lost her battle yesterday.  True to form, Avery did not want anyone frozen in sadness due to her passing. She wanted action. Avery, posted that she wanted all of her millions of new friends to remember her by bringing awareness to SMA.  She had set a goal to raise 1 million dollars to get a therapy program out the lab and in the hands of doctors to help those with SMA.  There is $365,000 left to raise.  Please visit Avery's blog to see all of the fun and exciting things that she accomplished in her short time here, to learn more about SMA and/or donate to the fund.  Please send everyone that you know and don't know to this site. Click here.  Rest in peace, Avery.

They censored my baby. ; )

While we were in the middle of doing Ryan's science lesson, out of the blue he asked,"What is wrong with school?" I asked him what he meant.  He said that when he was in [public] school they had an in class project that required him to write a mini book.  He said that the teacher said that they could write about anything that they wanted and then they had to draw pictures and read it to the class.  He said that he wrote about Jesus and that his teacher said that he couldn't read it.  This came as a shock to me as he never told me about the situation. I asked, "Really, are you serious?" He said, "Yeah, what is wrong with school?" First, I was so proud that of all the things he chose to write about Jesus. Then, I was surprised not that he was censored, but that he didn't like that Jesus was not allowed.  I was so proud of him.  Don't get me wrong, I am not one of the homeschooling moms that bash the public school system.  (I know they exist.) I went through public school and my nieces and nephews currently attend public school.  My children excelled academically, had some good teachers and friends in public school and they may one day return. My simple reason for homeschooling is that it works for us. Current changes in my life may threaten my ability to continue homeschooling them, but with that being said I will continue to do so for as long as it works. I will at some point go more in depth with our homeschooling journey, but as this came up today I wanted to share this story. Until next time....

Tired of being good ...

So this is a question that I have posed to myself quite a few times over the years.  If everyone around you is doing whatever they want, having a great time, suffering very few consequences and are stress free, why not try it? I'm not talking about anything illegal. I'm just really tired of watching people skipping through life making decisions for right now without worrying or caring about the after effects.  While every decision that I make has been pushed through a filter of "what is best" or thinking of how will it affect someone else.  What about me? People think that because there are certain things that I don't do, it must be because I don't want to do them.  Not true. I have been to people what I wanted them to be to me, but somehow I don't get it back. Obviously, it's not important to them so why should it be to me? Don't get me wrong, I have some wonderful people in my life and my relationships with them remain the same.  But can't I have a trial period of just doing whatever I feel like? Not being sarcastic, but sincerely wondering. What does it feel like? It must be nice otherwise it wouldn't be so popular. I don't think that I would want to live that way 24-7, but a "vacation" every once in a while would be nice.  Rhianna has a song called Good Girl Gone Bad. The lyrics basically talk about a good girl who is fed up being done wrong and so she turns "bad". One line says that once a good girl has gone bad she's gone forever. If that's true, does that mean the lifestyle is so good or addictive that once you give it a try that you can't go back to being "good"? I understand that you should treat people the way that you would like to be treated, but doesn't that also work in reverse? I know this post is going to prompt some people to think differently about me and some will be tempted to contact me with every biblical verse that they can find about turning the other cheek, but this is how I feel. I think that if you were completely honest with yourself, you would admit that you have felt this way as well. Whether it was a friend, co-worker, family member, acquaintance or even a stranger, someone has caused you to ask this question.  I'm not saying that I am about to turn into a vigilante or a pleasure seeking narcissist, but it has crossed my mind. More than once.

                                                                                                                        *Good Girl Gone Bad*

Be Trustworthy ....

Communication is Key.... : )

So this couple made it to their 50 yr. anniversary and the husband says to the wife, "After all these years Honey, I find you tried and true." The wife being hard of hearing says, "Say what?" The husband says in a louder voice, "After all these years, I find you tried and true." The wife quickly responds, "Well after all these years, I'm sick of you too!".....LOL...

What you hear might not be what be was said.  Part of communication is not only hearing, but also understanding what was said.

Eyes wide open...

A few days ago I came to a realization. An epiphany. An awakening. Someone who knows my character, knows my heart and knows my spirit treated me as a stranger. Worse than a stranger, more like an enemy.  They took all of their frustration, pain, anger, hate, emptiness and loneliness and threw it all at me.  I was in shock. For a second, anyway.  I quickly came to my senses and terminated the conversation. I couldn't believe that they would speak to anyone that way let alone me. At that very moment, I lost the ability to have any empathy for that person. I can't imagine how to understand what that person is going through or feeling or dealing with, or how to feel compassion for them when they clearly do not have any respect or empathy for me, especially after all that I have been through.  Maybe I am still too angry or maybe this is just the way it's going to be. I don't know. I'm not sure if I care.  When you have been there for someone in ways that they don't even understand, when you have protected them (even from themselves) more than you have protected yourself and they are able to have selective memory and pretend that you are nobody.... That you are disposable, because those are the type of people that they are used to dealing with...  That they can lump you in with a group that is so beneath your character and that they can do it so effortlessly... Without remorse... How do you get past that?  How can I ever feel safe with them again? I don't think that I can. How can you have someone in your life that you can't trust? Someone that is your biggest fan one minute and your worse enemy the next? Says something today and disputes that the conversation even took place by tomorrow? I've been in damage control mode for so long. I wanted so much to remain friends, but they seem to be on a mission to destroy any chance of that happening. I fear for this person in so many ways, but I know now that I can't make this person seek out answers and resolutions. I can't force them to look in the mirror. There will always be a distortion in their favor that they see and as far as answers...they will shop around until they get the answer they want.  Maybe they will be fine. I truly hope so. I wish them clarity and peace. That's what a true friend does. You love some friends by your side and others you have to love from afar. I see clearly now and I know that complete peace will follow. Until then...I will continue on my journey with people in my life that understand my worth and consistently express it...

A Quick Update:

Ok, so since my post on April 3rd, alot has happened.  The loved ones that I mentioned both lost their battles - one on the evening of the other's funeral.  My niece's minor surgery turned major, with her ending up in ICU and on a respirator.  My move was anything but a smooth transition and I am physically and emotionally drained.  I completed the No Soda Challenge and Ryan and I succeeded with flying colors.  I soon had a few Pepsis and considering what I have been through, I am okay with that. (I could have definitely done ALOT worse!) I haven't had a soda in over a week and am back on track to having them in moderation.  My dad is doing better and we are awaiting news as to whether he will have to have surgery. His spirits are better and he's getting stronger everyday. My plan was to give more details, but at this point I can't.  I am too tired and just want to move forward.  I have cried and I have been angry.  I have forgotten to eat.... and at times I have forgotten to breath.  No more dwelling in this place.  I may visit from time to time, but no more dwelling.....

Accept Your Mistakes...

Financial Planning: Wise Money Management

Good financial planning is a part of wise stewardship.  To be a truly effective steward, you must believe unequivocally that the money being managed is someone else's money- God's money.  Having this perspective gives a person the freedom to use finances as a tool to accomplish God's purposes, recognizing that no one comes into this world with any possessions, and no one will leave with anything (Eccl. 5:15).

God has entrusted each person with certain resources.  Money is something that God uses to test your ability to handle properly the other gifts He desires to give you (Luke 16:11).  One day He will ask for an accounting of how you managed the resources He has given you (Luke 19:11-26).  A wife who manages resources wisely is a blessing to her husband and family (Prov.31:27-28).

Remember:
Avoid an overly consumptive lifestyle.  The Bible teaches moderation in all things (1Cor.9:25).
Avoid debt (Prov.22:7; Rom.13:8).
Maintain a savings program (Prov.12:11).
Set long-term goals (Prov.13:22).

                                                                                                           ~The Woman's Study Bible~

Dance.

I DON'T HAVE INTERNET!!!!! : (

I've been moving and have been without internet.  I will not have service for a few more days.  I promise to get back on track as soon as I can.  There will be some tasty recipes, some updates, some reviews, and unfortunately some sad news.  Until then......

Be present in this moment.

But, I didn't say Twix.

On, Tuesday I was on the phone catching up with my friend M as we have been playing phone tag for over a week.  Just before we got off the phone, she said that if I needed anything to let her know.  I told her that I appreciated the offer, but that I was ok.  She said that she knew that I was like her and probably wouldn't take her up on her offer.  Knowing that she was right, but not wanting to say it, I told her that I would call if needed.  She said that to make it easier for me to ask for help, she would give me a code word. Twix. She said that all I had to do was call and say it or text it and that she would take it from there.  We ended our conversation and I went about my day.  The next day at 12pm I received a call from her.  She said, "I need to drop off dinner for you guys." I said, "What?, but I didn't say Twix".  M said that she knew I wouldn't call so she made dinner anyway.  We made arrangements and I thanked her with one of the most sincerest thank yous that I have ever given. (I hope that she knows that.) We hung up and all that I could say was, "Thank you, Jesus." I was so thankful! (I guess that she could hear in my voice that I really needed help.) She made two jars of White Chicken Chili and it was delicious.  She sent it with shredded cheese, jalapenos, sour cream and salsa. {My boys ate it plain w/ tortilla chips because they said that it was good all by itself. : ) } We  polished off a whole jar last night.  Click here for the recipe.  Thanks again, M.

* I am working on learning how to accept help and to ask for it.  You would think that it would be easy, but for me it is not.  I feel uncomfortable on the receiving end.  My mom once told me that accepting help isn't always about me, it's also about allowing others the opportunity to feel joy of helping.  She said that sometimes accepting help is actually a gift.  I'm working on it, mom.

This Woman's Work

Today, I woke up at 6:30 and for me that is NOT normal. I am by no means a morning person.  I often joke that Ryan and I are members of the 10 more minutes club.  When you wake us up, after we growl at you, without pause we groan, "10 more minutes, please". ; ) ....... I slept well and dreamt all night about people on there way to or from getting married (except for a brief dream about a tow truck picking up some cars) and I was happy for them. I think I even crashed a reception. {I might be adding that to my 2012 to do list. It looks fun in the movies.} ....Anyway, it was strange to have those dreams about happiness and new beginnings when I am currently dealing with loss and the anticipation of loss.  The loss of my best friend, the looming and inevitable loss of loved one's lives and the loss of what I envisioned for my future.  My father is ill. Which I have never known him to be sick, other than a cold. EVER! I'm packing for a move and the weather outside is cold and gloomy.  I am tired and mentally and emotionally drained.  I want to crawl into bed, under the covers and just disappear. But, I can't. I have to keep moving. I have things to do. I have people that depend on me. Maybe, my dream was to remind me to have faith in hope and the future.  I'm not sure. I know that this time will pass, but in this moment this is what I am feeling. So, I will put on a smile and keep it there until it feels right. I can't get lost. I just found myself......

                                                                                                              *This Woman's Work* by Maxwell

"Really?"

Okay, so yesterday after lunch I went outside to play soccer w/Ryan (my 8yr. old) and we saw a bird walking around in the grass.  I told him to stay still and waited for the bird to look away.  When the bird looked away, I whispered for him to walk slowly towards the bird. He did and then the bird stopped. So did Ryan. The bird turned away and Ryan tiptoed slowly towards the bird again.  And again, the bird turned to watch Ryan.  So basically, Ryan and the bird are playing a game of red light, green light. (Oops. I think I just told my age, but don't laugh 'cause if you know the game, I just told your age too.wink.) So, they play about three rounds and the bird is obviously winning, when all of a sudden Ryan starts running full speed towards the bird yelling "AHHHHHHHH!" and the bird flew away.  Ryan turned to me and innocently said, "He flew away for no reason." All I could do was stare at him and think, "Really? No reason, huh ?"  ; ) Gotta love him.

Pretty Wings...

Welcome to my first Music Diary post.  Music is like air to me. Whether I'm happy, tired, excited, sad, angry or mad music gives me balance. This Music Diary will share the music that serves as the soundtrack for my life.  At times I may explain why I have chosen a song and others times I won't, but the lyrics will always speak for themselves. My first post is Pretty Wings by Maxwell.  Why? As I said, the lyrics always speak for themselves. Sometimes your choose to fly, sometimes you're given a gentle nudge and other times you're pushed off a cliff, nevertheless, you must fly............*Pretty Wings*

Trust your truth.

                                                                                                                                   

Music Diary Coming Soon!

Check back regularly. Thanks.

Don't leave it on the desk...

I just got back from our "indoor picnic" at church and we had a great time.  Immediately, after service everyone filed downstairs for the picnic. (After the visitors and seniors, of course.) I made sure that we sat with members that we don't usually get to talk to or sit with during service, so that we can get more connected.  All you could hear was people having great conversations and the chattering and giggling of the small kids.  The was no shortage of food and I tried to sample almost everything ;  ).  I made meatballs and all that was left at the bottom of my dish when I left was one meatball, a piece of green pepper and a pineapple chunk. Yeah! I would have been depressed if it was barely touched. And yes, I secretly scanned plates to make sure that they weren't hidden under napkins on finished plates headed for file 13. (I know I 'm not the only one) ~Why do they call it file 13?~ Anyway, I am stuffed and need a cat nap. ~Why do they call it a cap nap?~  (Maybe, I should stop using phrases that I am not completely sure about. wink.wink.)  Well, in addition to those questions, I leave you with this................When I read this story I was truly touched and hope the same for you....

*PLEASE READ TO THE END. (YES, IT LOOKS LIKE ALOT, BUT YOU WILL BE GLAD THAT YOU DID!)

There was a certain Professor of Religion named Dr Christianson, a studious man who taught at a small college in the western United States. Dr. Christianson taught the required survey course in Christianity at this particular institution. Every student was required to take this course his or her freshman year, regardless of his or her major.

Although Dr Christianson tried hard to communicate the essence of the gospel in his class, he found that most of his students looked upon the course as nothing but required drudgery. Despite his best efforts, most students refused to take Christianity seriously.

This year, Dr. Christianson had a special student named Steve. Steve was only a freshman, but was studying with the intent of going onto seminary for the ministry. Steve was popular, he was well liked, and he was an imposing physical specimen. He was now the starting center on the school football team, and was the best student in the professor's class.

One day, Dr. Christianson asked Steve to stay after class so he could talk with him.

" How many push ups can you do?"

Steve said, "I do about 200 every night."

"200? That's pretty good, Steve," Dr. Christianson said. "Do you think you could do 300?"

Steve replied, "I don't know.... I've never done 300 at a time."

"Do you think you could?" again asked Dr. Christianson.

"Well, I can try," said Steve. "Can you do 300 in sets of 10? I have a class project in mind and I need you to do about 300 push ups in sets of ten for this to work. Can you do it? I need you to tell me you can do it," said the professor.

Steve said, "Well... I think I can... yeah, I can do it."

Dr. Christianson said, "Good! I need you to do this on Friday. Let me explain what I have in mind."

Friday came and Steve got to class early and sat in the front of the room. When class started, the professor pulled out a big box of donuts. No, these weren't the normal kinds of donuts, they were the extra fancy BIG kind, with cream centers and frosting swirls. Everyone was pretty excited it was Friday, the last class of the day, and they were going to get an early start on the weekend with a party in Dr. Christianson's class.

Dr. Christianson went to the first girl in the first row and asked, "Cynthia, do you want to have one of these donuts?"

Cynthia said, "Yes."

Dr. Christianson then turned to Steve and asked, "Steve, would you do ten push-ups so that Cynthia can have a donut?"

"Sure." Steve jumped down from his desk to do a quick ten. Then Steve again sat in his desk. Dr. Christianson put a donut on Cynthia's desk.

Dr. Christianson then went to Joe, the next person, and asked, "Joe, do you want a donut?"

Joe said, "Yes." Dr. Christianson asked, "Steve would you do ten push ups so Joe can have a donut?"

Steve did ten push ups, Joe got a donut. And so it went, down the first aisle, Steve did ten push ups for every person before they got their donut.

Walking down the second! aisle, Dr. Christianson came to Scott. Scott was on the basketball team, and in as good condition as Steve. He was very popular and never lacking for female companionship.

When the professor asked, "Scott do you want a donut?" Scott's reply was, "Well, can I do my own push ups?"

Dr. Christianson said, "No, Steve has to do them."

Then Scott said, "Well, I don't want one then."

Dr. Christianson shrugged and then turned to Steve and asked, "Steve, would you do ten push ups so Scott can have a donut he doesn't want?"

With perfect obedience Steve started to do ten push ups.

Scott said, "HEY! I said I didn't want one!"

Dr. Christianson said, "Look!, this is my classroom, my class, my desks, and these are my donuts. Just leave it on the desk if you don't want it." And he put a donut on Scott's desk.

Now by this time, Steve had begun to slow down a little. He just stayed on the floor between sets because it took too much effort to be getting up and down. You could start to see a little perspiration coming out around his brow.

Dr. Christianson started down the third row. Now the students were beginning to get a little angry. Dr. Christianson asked Jenny, "Jenny, do you want a donut?"

Sternly, Jenny said, "No."

Then Dr. Christianson asked Steve, "Steve, would you do ten more push-ups so Jenny can have a donut that she doesn't want?"

Steve did ten... Jenny got a donut.

By now, a growing sense of uneasiness filled the room. The students were beginning to say "No" and there were all these uneaten donuts on the desks.

Steve also had to really put forth a lot of extra effort to get these push ups done for each donut. There began to be a small pool of sweat on the floor beneath his face, his arms and brow were beginning to get red because of the physical effort involved.

Dr. Christianson asked Robert, who was the most vocal unbeliever in the class, to watch Steve do each push up to make sure he did the full ten push ups in a set because he couldn't bear to watch all of Steve's work for all of those uneaten donuts. He sent Robert over to where Steve was so Robert could count the set and watch Steve closely.

Dr. Christianson started down the fourth row. During his class, however, some students from other classes had wandered in and sat down on the steps along the radiators that ran down the sides of the room. When the professor realized this, he did a quick count and saw that now there were 34 students in the room. He started to worry if Steve would be able to make it.

Dr. Christianson went on to the next person and the next and the next. Near the end of that row, Steve was really having a rough time. He was taking a lot more time to complete each set.

Steve asked Dr Christianson, "Do I have to make my nose touch on each one?"

Dr. Christianson thought for a moment, "Well, they're your push ups. You are in charge now. You can do them any way that you want." And Dr. Christianson went on.

A few moments later, Jason, a recent transfer student, came to the room and was about to come in when all the students yelled in one voice, "NO! Don't come in! Stay out!"

Jason didn't know what was going on. Steve picked up his head and said, "No, let him come."

Professor Christianson said, "You realize that if Jason comes in you will have to do ten push ups for him?"

Steve said, "Yes, let him come in. Give him a donut"

Dr. Christianson said, "Okay, Steve, I'll let you get Jason's out of the way right now. Jason, do you want a donut?"

Jason, new to the room, hardly knew what was going on. "Yes," he said, "give me a donut."

"Steve, will you do ten push ups so that Jason can have a donut?"

Steve did ten push ups very slowly and with great effort. Jason, bewildered, was handed a donut and sat down.

Dr. Christianson finished the fourth row, and then started on those visitors seated by the heaters. Steve's arms were now shaking with each push-up in a struggle to lift himself against the force of gravity. By this time sweat was profusely dropping off of his face, there was no sound except his heavy breathing; there was not a dry eye in the room.

The very last two students in the room were two young women, both cheerleaders, and very popular. Dr. Christianson went to Linda, the second to last, and asked, "Linda, do you want a doughnut?"

Linda said, very sadly, "No, thank you."

Professor Christianson quietly asked, "Steve, would you do ten push-ups so that Linda can have a donut she doesn't want?"

Grunting from the effort, Steve did ten very slow push ups for Linda.

Then Dr Christianson turned to the last girl, Susan. "Susan, do you want a donut?"

Susan, with tears flowing down her face, began to cry. "Dr. Christianson, why can't I help him?"

Dr. Christianson, with tears of his own, said, "No, Steve has to do it alone, I have given him this task and he is in charge of seeing that everyone has an opportunity for a donut whether they want it or not. When I decided to have a party this last day of class, I looked at my grade book. Steve here is the only student with a perfect grade. Everyone else has failed a test, skipped class, or offered me inferior work. Steve told me that in football practice, when a player messes up he must do push ups. I told Steve that none of you could come to my party unless he paid the price by doing your push ups. He and I made a deal for your sakes."

"Steve, would you do ten push ups so Susan can have a donut?"

As Steve very slowly finished his last push up, with the understanding that he had accomplished all that was required of him, having done 350 push ups, his arms buckled beneath him and he! fell to the floor.

Dr. Christianson turned to the room and said. "And so it was, that our Savior, Jesus Christ, on the cross, plead to the Father, 'into thy hands I commend my spirit.' With the understanding that He had done everything that was required of Him, He yielded up His life. And like some of those in this room, many of us leave the gift on the desk, uneaten." Two students helped Steve up off the floor and to a seat, physically exhausted, but wearing a thin smile.

"Well done, good and faithful servant," said the professor, adding "Not all sermons are preached in words."

Turning to his class, the professor said, "My wish is that you might understand and fully comprehend all the riches of grace and mercy that have been given to you through the sacrifice of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He spared not only His Begotten Son, but gave Him up for us all, for the whole Church, now and forever. Whether or not we choose to accept His gift to us, the price has been paid."

"Wouldn't you be foolish and ungrateful to leave it lying on the desk?"

                                                                                                               ~Author Unknown~

Hunger Games Night Out

We had a great time last night! RR and I set out to see the 7:00 showing, but when we arrived at 6:30 it was sold out.  We bought tickets for the 7:30 and got in line.  That's right, there was already a line for the 7:30 showing.  When we were able to go in, it was a mad dash!  People were running and knocking people down and the police were called!  Okay, so that was a little exaggerated. Alright, alot exaggerated, but people were walking briskly. ; ) Anyway, after we after we got seats I got our snacks (no soda: for those following the challenge) and settled in.  I saw my long anticipated Breaking Dawn pt.2 trailer. {Again, I apologize to the girl next to me and the woman in front of me for screaming when I saw the Summit logo flash on the screen, but it's Breaking Dawn I couldn't help it.} The movie started and I was very pleased.  Having read the book, my son and I knew the story very well and would nudge each other or whisper when we noticed something different from the book, but overall, they did a good job.  Of course there were parts that we felt should have been developed more, but as we all know, a book is always better than the movie.  A movie would have to be 6hrs. long to cover the details of a book, plus a director could never capture the picture that we have created in our minds, but again, they did a good job. (Wow, that was a long run on sentence).

 Because this is the opening weekend, I won't go into details and spoil anything for those who haven't seen it yet.  I will write a more detailed review later.  Until then, I will say that whether you have read the books or not, it's a movie worth seeing. BUT, if you can find the time to read the books, read them.  You will be glad that you did.

P.S. We had a post Hunger Games dinner today and it was Delish! I will post the recipes as soon as I can. Till then......READ THE BOOKS! or at least see the movie.  : )

HUNGER GAMES OPENS TODAY!!!!!

Yes, we drank the kool aid....  When I first saw the preview for the movie a couple of months ago I told RR that I would take him to see it if he read the book first.  He wasn't ecstatic with the deal, but didn't go into his normal negotiation mode.  {He usually goes for books like Ender's Game, Force Unleashed or The Lightening Thief}  Always looking for a way to make learning more exciting or interesting, I chose to turn this into an educational opportunity.  I decided that he would read the book, see the movie and write a paper about the similarities and  differences between the two.  In order to do be able to grade it properly I decided to read it also.  Two pages in and I was hooked, so was RR.  We started reading on Sunday night and RR finished his on Tuesday morning. (He was reading all the time; in the car, in the store, at his brother's soccer practice....etc.)  I bought him "Catching Fire" (book two in the series) Tuesday afternoon and he finished that this morning. : )

For those of you who don't know about the hottest series since Twilight, Hunger Games is the first book of a trilogy. * No spoilers * It is set in Panem (the Capitol), which stands within what used to be North America.  Panem is surrounded by twelve districts, inhabited by poor and starving citizens.  The Capitol (where the "wealthy" live) forces each district to send one boy and one girl between the ages of twelve and eighteen to participate in the annual Hunger Games, a fight to the death on live TV.  Twenty-four go in, but only one comes out.  When her sister is chosen for the Games, Katniss (the main character) volunteers to take her place. While only 16yrs. old, she is the sole protector and provider for her sister and mother, but now she has to fight for her own survival.  There's suspense, action and a great plot.  This book is awesome and I can't wait to start reading the next one, but tonight we're heading to the movies......

Click here to check out the trailer.

RR's Newest Pick Up Line

This is my son's newest pick up line.  It took me a second to get this one.... "Girl, you must be from Nashville, cause you're the only ten I see."  {Tennessee}

*Needless to say, he's still single  : ) and that suits me just fine, at least for the next ten years or so...

The Spice of Life.....

I have gotten to a place where I am in a "love me or leave me" frame of mind, because now I truly love myself independent of how people feel about me or treat me.  I am not perfect, but I am darn near close and I say that not with conceit, but with pride.  I have worked very hard over the years to get here and I am still working.  I have had to challenge some of my "own" thoughts for proof of authenticity only to find that they were really the thoughts of others, disguised as being mine.  My idea of perfect, is me being true to my thoughts, beliefs, accomplishments, feelings, spirit and yes, even my mistakes.  My perfect may be the polar opposite of yours, but that's okay.  I'm the only one that can be me and you're the only one that can be you.  That's what makes this world so interesting! Off the subject (or maybe not), I have never liked that saying that America is the "Great Melting Pot".  The premise is that we all come together bringing different things and melt together to make something great.  The only problem with that scenario is that each ingredient loses some of the properties that made them unique and/or different and are no longer readily identifiable.  I chose to see America as the "Great Salad Bowl".  Cheesy, I know, but hear me out. In a salad, all of the ingredients keep what gave them their "flavor". You can look at the tomato and know what it is, it tastes the same, it retains it's firmness, and texture.  The same with all of the other ingredients.  They keep what made them special and yet come together to make something bigger, greater and new.  The dressing binds them together, just as the flag binds Americans or a common goal or bond binds any group of people together.  The point: no one should ever feel that they have to lose a part of who they are in order to belong to a group.  Different perspectives ignite conversations and ideas.  I love myself, but if I went to a group meeting and everyone dressed or looked like me, spoke like me and had the same ideas... first, I would pinch myself to see if I was sleeping or in the Twilight Zone.  Then, I would run to the nearest exit and find another group.  Although, it would be a delightful group of beautiful, intelligent, caring, funny women each wearing a hot pair of shoes (wink.wink), I need variety.  After all, as they say "it's the spice of life!"

~I'm not sure if I got off topic, changed the topic or what, but this is where my mind took me and I went with it. I hope that you didn't get lost along the way : ) ~

Contentment: The Ultimate Acceptance

Contentment is the ultimate acceptance of yourself, your surroundings, your past, and your future.  Yet, reaching this blessed state of contentment is not an easy task.  Satisfaction- when you have real unmet needs, freedom from worry when you have overwhelming concerns, patience in letting God work when pressures abound seem like impossible dreams.  Happiness-despite heartaches caused by the past, in the midst of tragedies experienced in the present, based on promises trusted for the future- is not merely a human pursuit but demands spiritual resources only found in the indwelling Holy Spirit.

God has chosen not to give you contentment as a gift.  He chose rather to teach you to be content as you allow him to be ruler in your life. Contentment is learned (Phil.4:11)  As you trust God's gifts to be sufficient and his assignments to be appropriate, you can accept the way you look, the means you have been given, the family in which you are living, the struggles through which you have gone, the job you have, being content and fulfilled in all (2 Cor. 3:5, 6; 12:9).

On the other hand, acceptance does not mean stagnation.  Dissatisfaction with areas in your life that can be changed, within divine guidelines, may help you to see that something is missing.  When this happens, you dare not adopt the "Canaan" syndrome of complaining.  Remember that God's people were not allowed to enter the Promise Land because of their murmuring (Josh. 5:6).  Rather, take that dissatisfaction to the Lord and see what He would challenge you to do, being willing in the meantime to be "content" as you work toward ultimate goals.  This is the balance between "I have learned to be content", and "I can do all things through Christ" (Phil. 4:11,13).

You must trust that God has given you everything needed for this moment in time.  You should be content with yourself, your family, your surroundings, your job, or your past.  As you depend on the Lord, you are content as you pursue His goals for your life.

                                                                                                      ~The Woman's Study Bible~

Thought: How are you worthy to receive bigger, better and newer if you aren't thankful for what you have now? Know that without contentment, you will never be happy, because there will always be something out there bigger, better and newer than what you have.  Besides, many have lost everything by jumping fences, because they thought that the grass was greener on the other side only to find out that it wasn't even grass, but some fake turf or a spray on color. : ) So enjoy what you have now and what is meant for you will come in time.....if it was to be yours...

P.S. Don't try to keep up with the Joneses, because they are broke!

Don't Be Afraid......

"Our worst fear is not that we are inadequate, our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.  It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us.  We ask ourselves, 'Who am I to be so brilliant, gorgeous, talented and fabulous?' Actually, who are we not to be?  You are a child of God: Your playing small  doesn't serve the world.  There is nothing enlightening about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you.  We were born to make manifest the glory of God within us.  It is not just in some of us, it is in everyone and as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.  As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others."
                                                                                                            ~Marianne Williamson~

Easy Shrimp Linguini w/Mushrooms & Spinach

This recipe is one of my favorites for many reasons. The biggest reason: because it's DELICIOUS!!!!! If that's not enough, it's also quick, easy, only has four ingredients, and it makes me look like I know a little something about being in the kitchen. ; )

                      Here is what you will need. See, I told you there were only 4 ingredients.

Preheat oven to 450 and arrange the frozen shrimp in a single layer in a 2qt casserole or any oven safe dish.  I actually used a 9x13 dish this time. (I forgot that I broke my 2qt a couple of weeks ago : ( and my heart was set on having this for dinner.) It worked and I'll use this one from now on. Oh yeah, bake for 10mins.

Meanwhile, rinse and slice the mushrooms. 

Boil the noodles according to the package or your liking.  We like our pasta 1min. past al dente and I use whatever pasta I have on hand. Linguini, Fettucini, Vermicelli...this time I went w/Linguini.

{You can lightly salt water if you like, but I didn't}

After 10mins, separate any shrimp that were frozen together.....

Add the mushrooms....

Mix...

Then, stir in the spinach and bake for 2mins or until the shrimp is cooked through and the spinach and mushrooms have absorbed some of the buttery, golden deliciousness, but don't overcook...

* The shrimp should be tender and the mushrooms should have some bite ; ) *

Drain the pasta and add to shrimp mixture.... Use tongs to toss all of the ingredients together and VOILA!

Just eat and enjoy!......Yummy!........and 30 mins later....

Yep, it's just that good.

Ingredients:

* 12 oz. Sea Pak Shrimp Scampi (frozen)

* 9oz. Green Giant Chopped Spinach- NO SAUCE (frozen) or brand of choice (I used 7oz.)

* 8 med. Baby Bella Mushrooms or more if you like

* 3/4 pack of Linguini Pasta or whatever you have on hand

This is what I use for my family of 4. Double recipe if necessary. (adding more pasta w/o increasing the other ingredients will change the flavor.

14 Days on the Wagon....

Ok, so it's time for another update.  I was going through withdrawals for a little while, but now I'm doing great.  I went out to lunch today and had a burger and fries and didn't think twice about not having a soda. YEAH!!!!!!. I don't want to get too excited, because when you get cocky, you can relapse and I don't want that.  I'm not saying that I will never have a soda again, but I think that if I do have one they will be few and far in between.  I hope that everyone is still on track, but remember that there is no shame in falling down, only shame in choosing not to get up......If you are still on the fence about giving up sodas or reducing the amount that you drink, click here for more info.  The choice is yours, but it always good to be informed.  Enough with the heavy, here is the update of the members of my family that are apart of the challenge.  Unfortunately, I may have to start a rehab group  :  )

1. Me
2. My 8yr. old
3. My oldest sister
4. My sister, Nessi
5. My brother-in-law (K)
6. My niece, (E)
7. My husband


Revised Challenge: My 12yr old said that he would reduce to 2 sodas per week to start with and he is still on his wagon. ; ) {He said that going totally soda free would contradict one of his resolutions for this yr., which was to set realistic goals. ; ) Welcome to my world,}

8. My 12 yr. old

Thought for Today...

'Take the high road, there's much less traffic, because few take it."
                                                                                                             ~Dr. Phil~

Grow Up!

The word "mature" is defined as having reached an advanced stage of mental or emotional development characteristic of an adult, while "immature" highlights one not fully grown or developed. {or deficient in maturity, lacking wisdom, insight, emotional stability}

Wise men increase in learning and understanding.  They never stop learning.  "A wise man will hear and increase learning, and a man of understanding will attain wise counsel... Give instruction to a wise man and he will be still wiser; Teach a just man, and he will increase in learning" (Proverbs 1:5, 9:9)

Children will fight and argue with one another; adults  learn to compromise to get along. Children are selfish and only think of receiving; adults are selfless and learn to love giving. Children cannot control their emotions; adult learn to rule their spirits and emotions. Children pout when they don't get their way; adults learn to overlook hurt. Children envy others for their advantages; adults rejoice in the blessings upon others. Children are moody and let others know it; adults crush their moods and hide them.  Children fail to look in the mirror or ignore it; adults cover their blemishes (James 1:25).

Am I, and have I, increased in all measures of spiritually mindedness and spiritual fruit? Am I stuck on a rut with little progress? Or have I actually regressed in recent months/years? Do I reflect the person, the grace, the character, and the gospel of Jesus Christ?

Am I a child or an adult?

                                                                                                               ~Min. Steve Miller~