Thursday, March 31, 2005

Wednesday is over!

Wednesday was a long difficult day! Alex is having asthma problems. He was really struggling yesterday. After a steroid shot, chest x-rays, and breathing treatments every 4hrs it was a tough day. He was clingy and whinny. This didn't give me much time to focus on me or my story.

Rick was gone all day at a conference and didn't get home until 6pm. He walked in the door and the devil took hold me. I started a big fight over nothing. I was mean and nasty. We fought over nothing. I left saying forget it... I'm not doing my story. EXACTLY what the devil wanted. Luckily, my friend Lori found me and helped me regain my focus on the Lord. She prayed with me, and encouraged me to call Rick and apologize. Rick being the amazing man he is had already forgiven me. He realized right away what was happening. With that behind me it was time to let go and tell my story.

I brought pictures along so that people could see my progression. I spoke for a little over an hour. I found myself getting off track several times but managed to pull myself together and find the ending. (next time it will be easier and more focused). There were tears, laughter, smiles and forgiveness. My history will always be a part of me. Those pains, those struggles were all part of God's plan. In order for me to be strong enough to handle Alex and the things to come I first had to understand true struggle. God always knew regardless of the fact no one ever told me He loved me, I would find Him. He was building Lori's Faith so that she would be ready to take me under her wing, to nurture me, and love me. She was the first person to ever stop and say "yes, Martha God does love you". I am so excited to Love God back. God's purpose for me is straight down the path ahead of me.... I am off to find it!

Monday, March 28, 2005

My Testimony!

Happy Easter everyone! I hope your day was filled with family and love. Jesus has Risen and all is well.

I have volunteered to give my Testimony or "my story" on Wednesday night at the woman's bible study. You might ask yourself what a testimony is exactly. This is what I have found out.

"Christian Testimonies: The Stories of Our Lives - Christian testimonies are the stories told by believers about what God has done and is doing in their lives. Today, we often think of the word "testimonial," in which people offer their personal experiences with a product. In this case, the encounter being described is with a person-the person of God in Jesus Christ."

This is a HUGE leap in faith and trust for me. My heartaches and journey in life has not been an easy or normal one. It is not something I share easily with others, and even less with people I don't know really well. I have prayed really hard about this. I decided it was time. In order to have true fellowship with these woman I need to be able to let down my guard and bare my soul. Also, I want them all to feel comfortable enough to do this with me. Several of them have already shared their story and they stepped out on a limb trusting me. Now it is my turn.
My history with trust is not a solid one. I have been let down more times than I can count. However, never before have I had the Lord on my side. Never, have I had friends who so deeply trusted themselves with God.

I have been thinking about "my story" for a week now... Trying to decide where to begin and where to end. There is so much I could say but truly what key events led me to my lack of faith in God. What key events lead me to God. How did I find my way. These are all the questions I hope to answer. "My Story" like everyone's is a continuing story, each page being written as my life continues.

I was doing some research on the word Testimony so decided to "Google" it, expecting to get most "court" type answers. As in.. So and so gave their testimony. Amazingly enough the entire first page was Christian based. I personally really enjoyed this site This Christian Life.

Even more amazing was I actually found some people had their Testimony posted on-line for the world to view!! Here are a couple I found: Steve's Story, Testimonies, Francis D. Goodman Jr, Nancy Marie.

I don't think you'll be reading my testimony up on the web anytime soon! LOL.. But I found it really interesting reading everyone else's story as it truly helped to pull my story together. Everyone has a different story. Some are scary, some are sad, and some grow from parents who taught a deep faith. At some point in everyone's lives they turn their back on God, it just a matter of turning back around facing him, and asking for forgiveness!

Pray for me as Wednesday draws closer......

Thursday, March 24, 2005

An Alex Brag....

A normal Mommy moment.... a brag... a moment of excitement!

I have been working on teaching Alex how to spell his name. I kept writing it over and over the past few days. Yesterday when Rick got home I asked Alex, "how do you spell your name?" Thinking I would get my normal response of silence, I started saying "A", and he quickly chimed in "L, E, X" With a BIG grin! I was FLOORED! He DID it! He spelt his name!!! I was worried it was a fluke so this morning I asked him again, "Alex, how do you spell your name?". He quickly responded with "A - L - E - X"!

I am so proud of him! To think back 2 years ago when the doctors sat and tried to prep me that my son may have brain damage. I am so happy he just keeps proving them wrong!

Are you a Mary or a Martha?


In his excellent book, Loving God, Charles Colson tells the story of Mickey Cohen, the “number-one bad boy” of Los Angeles. Through the testimony of Jim Vaus and the ministry of men like Billy Graham, Cohen allegedly had a conversion experience. But when it became apparent to him that being a Christian meant that he could no longer be a gangster, he balked. That was too much. Colson calls the chapter of his book which deals with Cohen, “A Christian Gangster?” We all know better than to think that a man like Cohen could claim to be a Christian and yet carry on with his work in the underworld.
As strongly as we believe this, Christians fail to realize that it is not only a matter of occupying ourselves with the right kind of work, we must also go about our work with the right attitude. A preacher can preach with the wrong attitude, as Paul tells us (Philippians 1:15-18). Someone who shows mercy by distributing food and clothing to the poor may be wrongly motivated in what they do (cf. Romans 12:8). Thus, we must not only be careful to be doing the right thing; we must be concerned with doing it with the right motivation.
It is often true that we begin our ministry with the right motivation, but somehow we get off track. This appears to be what happened to Martha. In a very familiar story, found only in Luke’s gospel, Martha becomes greatly distressed in the midst of preparing a meal for Jesus. I some people suffer from “burn out” in ministry, Martha is “burned up” in hers. This woman is really angry, and with Jesus no less! As one song has put it, Mary was … “‘Workin’ like the Devil, Servin’ the Lord.”
Who could think of a lovelier thing for a woman to be doing than to be showing Him the hospitality of a meal? And yet Martha virtually explodes with anger, due to the fact that her sister, Mary, is not helping, but rather is sitting at the feet of Jesus. And not only is Martha angry with her sister, she is greatly upset with her Lord. What happened to Martha’s ministry? What went wrong with her motivation? Why was Martha mad at Jesus? The answers to these questions can be found in the Bible. Let us listen well to the words of this text, and let us seek to learn from it those lessons which God intended for us, since it was preserved for our edification.
The Background of Our Story
At the 9th chapter of Luke, Jesus began to work with and through the disciples a great deal. This is due to the opposition to His ministry, His approaching rejection and crucifixion, and the need for the disciples to be trained for their work in His absence. Jesus first sent out the twelve apostles to preach the gospel (9:1-6), and then the seventy (10:1-20). Peter has made His great confession about the identity of Christ, and God has given His testimony as well at the mount of transfiguration (9:18-36). The Lord has taught the disciples much about ministry, both through their successes (e.g., the feeding of the five thousand, 9:10-17, and the healings and exorcisms of those sent out), and their failures (the failure of the 9 to exorcise the young man, 9:37-43).
Jesus has emphasized the evangelization of the cities in the sending of the seventy, and the importance of joy as the motivation for ministry in his response to their report on their return (9:17-24). In answer to the question of the lawyer about what he should do to inherit eternal life, Jesus told the man to do what the law commanded (9:25-37).
It might appear from the story of the “Good Samaritan” that Jesus was advocating salvation by works. Jesus was, in reality, doing the opposite. He was attempting to show this expert in the law that in order to be saved through law-keeping, he would have to do that which he had not been able to do (that is why he felt the need to justify himself), and that no one could do, for salvation through the law required perfect, progressive obedience to the law, without one failure.
The story of Martha and Mary underscores the futility of works as well. It was not the frantic activity of Martha which impressed Jesus, and which won His commendation, but the inactivity of Mary, sitting at the feet of the Savior, listening intently to His teaching. If one would place too high an emphasis on works, this story will put things back into perspective.
What We Know of Mary and Martha
There are several texts of Scripture which speak to us about Mary and Martha (and also Lazarus, their brother). I will place these texts in the order in which they seem to fall chronologically.
Luke 7:36-50 Now one of the Pharisees invited Jesus to have dinner with him, so he went to the Pharisee’s house and reclined at the table. When a woman who had lived a sinful life in that town learned that Jesus was eating at the Pharisee’s house, she brought an alabaster jar of perfume, and as she stood behind him at his feet weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears. Then she wiped them with her hair, kissed them and poured perfume on them. When the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would know who is touching him and what kind of woman she is—that she is a sinner.” Jesus answered him, “Simon, I have something to tell you.” “Tell me, teacher,” he said. “Two men owed money to a certain moneylender. One owed him five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. Neither of them had the money to pay him back, so he canceled the debts of both. Now which of them will love him more?” Simon replied, “I suppose the one who had the bigger debt canceled.” “You have judged correctly,” Jesus said. Then he turned toward the woman and said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I came into your house. You did not give me any water for my feet, but she wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. You did not give me a kiss, but this woman, from the time I entered, has not stopped kissing my feet. You did not put oil on my head, but she has poured perfume on my feet. Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven—for she loved much. But he who has been forgiven little loves little.” Then Jesus said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” The other guests began to say among themselves, “Who is this who even forgives sins?” Jesus said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”
Luke 10:38-42 As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”
John 11:1-39 Now a man named Lazarus was sick. He was from Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha. This Mary, whose brother Lazarus now lay sick, was the same one who poured perfume on the Lord and wiped his feet with her hair. So the sisters sent word to Jesus, “Lord, the one you love is sick.” When he heard this, Jesus said, “This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it.” Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. Yet when he heard that Lazarus was sick, he stayed where he was two more days. Then he said to his disciples, “Let us go back to Judea.” “But Rabbi,” they said, “a short while ago the Jews tried to stone you, and yet you are going back there?” Jesus answered, “Are there not twelve hours of daylight? A man who walks by day will not stumble, for he sees by this world’s light. It is when he walks by night that he stumbles, for he has no light.” After he had said this, he went on to tell them, “Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep; but I am going there to wake him up.” His disciples replied, “Lord, if he sleeps, he will get better.” Jesus had been speaking of his death, but his disciples thought he meant natural sleep. So then he told them plainly, “Lazarus is dead, and for your sake I am glad I was not there, so that you may believe. But let us go to him.” Then Thomas (called Didymus) said to the rest of the disciples, “Let us also go, that we may die with him.” On his arrival, Jesus found that Lazarus had already been in the tomb for four days. Bethany was less than two miles from Jerusalem, and many Jews had come to Martha and Mary to comfort them in the loss of their brother. When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went out to meet him, but Mary stayed at home. “Lord,” Martha said to Jesus, “if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask.” Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise again.” Martha answered, “I know he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day.” Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?” “Yes, Lord,” she told him, “I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, who was to come into the world.” And after she had said this, she went back and called her sister Mary aside. “The Teacher is here,” she said, “and is asking for you.” When Mary heard this, she got up quickly and went to him. Now Jesus had not yet entered the village, but was still at the place where Martha had met him. When the Jews who had been with Mary in the house, comforting her, noticed how quickly she got up and went out, they followed her, supposing she was going to the tomb to mourn there. When Mary reached the place where Jesus was and saw him, she fell at his feet and said, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come along with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled. “Where have you laid him?” he asked. “Come and see, Lord,” they replied. Jesus wept. Then the Jews said, “See how he loved him!” But some of them said, “Could not he who opened the eyes of the blind man have kept this man from dying?” Jesus, once more deeply moved, came to the tomb. It was a cave with a stone laid across the entrance. “Take away the stone,” he said. “But, Lord,” said Martha, the sister of the dead man, “by this time there is a bad odor, for he has been there four days.”As I understand the chronology of these events, Mary was the one who anointed the feet of Jesus, as recorded in Luke chapter 7 (to which John referred in John 11:2). The incident recorded by Luke in our text takes place some time after this, followed by the raising of Lazarus (John 11), and finally by the last anointing of Jesus’ feet, in preparation for His burial (Matthew 26:6-13; Mark 14:3-9; John 12:1-8). Some have explained the mention of the house of “Simon the Leper” by Matthew (26:6) and Mark (14:3) by suggesting that Martha was married to Simon. A tombstone found in that area with the names Simon, Martha, Mary, and Lazarus have been cited as evidence of this. It is my opinion that Simon offered the use of his house for this meal since it was larger, and that Martha did the serving, as stated in John’s gospel (but which doesn’t say whose house the meal was served in).
Based on all the texts in which Mary and Martha are described, I think we can infer several things about these two women. Martha appears to be the older of the two sisters. In our text in Luke chapter 10, Martha is depicted as the hostess, who invited Jesus into her home. Martha seems not only to be the older, but the more aggressive and outspoken of the two women. It is she who went out to meet Jesus after Lazarus died, and to inform Him that this would not have happened if He would have been there sooner. Mary will later repeat this same words, no doubt echoing Martha, but with a different tone, as I read them at least. Mary’s words convey only sorrow and regret. Martha’s words may subtly convey a rebuke, in effect saying, “If you hadn’t delayed, if you were not so late in coming, Lazarus would not have died.” This is not far from saying, “It’s all your fault, you know!” Even though Martha professed to believe in Christ as the Messiah, and in His ability to raise men from the dead (John 11:22-27), she objected concerning the stench of the tomb when Jesus ordered it to be opened, and Jesus’ response reveals her lack of faith (John 11:39-40). In Luke chapter 10 Martha is very aggressive and outspoken. She explodes with anger at Mary’s failure to come to her aid, and at Jesus’ encouragement (or at least His toleration) of her conduct. All of the texts combined paint a picture of Martha as the older, the more dominant (and perhaps domineering), the more outgoing, and the more vocal of the two.
Perhaps the two women can best be seen in contrast to each other, based upon John’s account of the raising of Lazarus in chapter 11.
Martha went out to wait for Jesus
Martha didn’t tell Mary, who remained at home
Martha stood (it seems) before Jesus
Mary fell at Jesus’ feet
Martha gently rebuked Jesus
Mary wept
Jesus talked with Martha
Jesus wept with (and for?) Mary
Mary and the Feet of Jesus
Martha was upset because Mary remained at Jesus’ feet, listening to Him teach, while the burden of fixing the meal fell entirely on her. What was Mary doing at Jesus’ feet? How did she get there? I think I know.
Mary was always at Jesus’ feet. Indeed, in every text which speaks of her she is at Jesus’ feet. In Luke chapter 7 she was behind Jesus, quietly (and unobtrusively) washing Jesus’ feet with her tears and her hair. In John 11 she fell as Jesus’ feet when she found Him. In John 12 and its parallels, Mary was again at Jesus’ feet, anointing Him with expensive perfume, preparing Him for His death. I believe that in Luke chapter 10 she immediately found herself at Jesus’ feet, washing them from the dust of the journey He has taken. The account of Jesus’ washing the feet of His disciples in John chapter 13 sheds much light on this, as well as these words of Jesus, previously recorded by Luke, spoken to the Pharisees who had invited Jesus to dinner at his house:
Then he turned toward the woman [Mary?] and said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I came into your house. You did not give me any water for my feet, but she wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. You did not give me a kiss, but this woman, from the time I entered, has not stopped kissing my feet. You did not put oil on my head, but she has poured perfume on my feet” (Luke 7:44-46).
Mary, I believe, was at the feet of Jesus, doing what every good host or hostess would have done—washing the feet of their guest. It is my opinion that Mary just never got up. Mary was not content to make a quick job of it. Jesus began to speak, and she was captivated by His words. She was so inconspicuous, her actions so gracious, and Jesus so grateful and affirming, that she never thought of getting up and slipping away to the kitchen. I suspect that virtually everyone else in that room could hear the sigh’s of Martha, and the clanging of the pots and dishes as she proceeded to get angrier by the moment. But not Mary. She had eyes only for the One who had forgiven her, and who loved her, as she loved Him. She had no ears for Martha’s clamoring, but only for the gracious words spoken by her Master. Was she normally subject to Martha? Not so today, and Jesus was grateful to have her at His feet. The warmth of the love of that woman must have caused the room to glow. Who would dare to suggest she leave, no matter what Martha might want?
A Word About Martha
There are several things about Martha that we should take note of, before we consider our Lord’s words spoken to her.
(1) It is Martha who is the central person in our text, not Mary. We might all agree that Mary is the hero, she is the model, but she is not the dominant personality of our passage. Luke’s account records not so much as one word spoken by Mary, and there is but one brief verse describing her actions (v. 39). The remaining 4 verses are divided between Martha’s actions (vv. 38, 40) and Jesus’ response to Martha’s tantrum (vv. 41-42).
(2) Martha was not jealous that Mary was spending time with Jesus, but angry that Mary was not helping her. One thing struck me as I have been thinking about Martha’s response to Mary’s actions: Martha was not envious of Mary, but angry with her. If Martha had said, “I would like to sit at your feet, too, Jesus,” that would have been one thing. But Martha did not say this. Martha seems to have felt that working in the kitchen was the “better thing,” not only for her, but also for Mary. How sad that Martha did not have the longing which Mary evidenced, the longing to do nothing else than to sit at Jesus’ feet, and to hear Him teach. Here was “bread” for which Martha had too little concern, or so it would seem.
(3) Martha does not see any problem with herself, but she blames those who are innocent of wrongdoing. Martha accused both Mary and Jesus of doing wrong against her, and found herself innocent. Jesus refused to grant Martha’s demands, even though forcefully put. Jesus praised Mary for the choice she had made and informed Martha that she was in the wrong.
(4) It is not Martha’s service which was wrong, but her attitude in that service. I do not think our text suggests that both Mary and Martha should have been sitting at Jesus’ feet, and that no meal should have been prepared. Martha was not wrong in serving, but her attitude in serving was clearly wrong. Martha had a serving ministry, but not a servant’s heart.
(5) Martha’s frustration, anger, and temper tantrum may not be excusable, but it is at least understandable. If Mary’s delight at sitting at the Master’s feet is easily understood, so is Martha’s chagrin. It is not excusable, but it is understandable. Let me remind you that Martha, as the hostess of the house, may well have been faced with entertaining a sizable group. We know that Jesus was often accompanied by a large party. One can hardly imagine the 12 disciples not being there, not to mention some or all of the 70, and then, of course, the women who accompanied and attended Jesus (Luke 8:1-3).
Some years ago, when my younger sister was married, my parents entertained a large group at their home. At least 50 or 60 people were there for at least one meal. There was a great deal of planning and preparation involved. My wife, Jeannette, played a large role in this, and she can testify to the work involved. I gather from this experience that Martha likewise had no mean job. She could have used all the help she could get.
Another factor in Martha’s anger at Mary’s absence may have been a cultural one. In that day and time (as is still often the case in the Eastern world) the men would sit about talking “man talk” while the women were going about their more “domestic duties.” For Mary to have been in the “living room,” as it were, and not in the “kitchen” may have been unusual. Martha may not have sensed the Lord’s encouragement for Mary to stay, or, she may very well have observed it, which would explain her outburst of anger toward Him. Was she reminding Jesus of how He should “take the leadership” here?
Woman’s work was in the kitchen, fixing meals. Men’s work was to talk theology, in the living room, with Jesus. Mary had no right, Martha told herself, and if we had been in her sandals, we would likely have thought the same thing.
(6) Martha’s words reflect not only an anger, but a lack of reverence and a lack of submission. Martha charged Jesus with not caring for her, with condoning wrongdoing on Mary’s part, and then publicly demanded that Jesus concede His “error” by making Mary go to help her sister. One must say that this is hardly proper conduct. If Martha thought that Mary was not conforming to her “womanly role” how much more so for herself.
Jesus Response to Martha’s Rebuke
Jesus’ words in response to the stormy protest of Martha may not tell us all that was wrong, but they surely inform us as to what the primary problems were. Notice several things about Jesus’ words to Martha.
(1) Jesus did not respond to Martha’s anger in anger. How easy it would have been for Jesus to have a scorching, or at least a sarcastic response to Martha, but no trace of anger can be seen. Our Lord’s response is truly gracious, and His rebuke most gentle. That same compassion which drew Mary to Jesus’ feet, is that which characterized Jesus’ response to her sister.
(2) Jesus found Martha’s charges wrong on every count, and at the same time found Martha to be the one in the wrong. Her tears and her rebuke, no matter how strongly put, do not put Jesus on the defensive. Jesus made no attempt to clear Himself, defended Mary’s decision as the better one, and found Martha’s outburst unjustified, and a symptom of more serious problems. Angry accusations and outbursts, especially those which are disproportionate (as was that of Martha), often point to deeper problems. It is to these problems that our Lord’s words will point.
(3) Jesus’ response was evidence of His refusal to superimpose some kind of stereotypical “woman’s role” model on Mary and Martha alike. Mary and Martha were both women, but nothing in Jesus’ words deals with either of them as women. Mary was not only free to sit and learn at Jesus’ feet, she was commended for it. Martha was not forbidden or rebuked for serving, but only for insisting that Mary do likewise. Jesus deal with these women as individuals.
(4) Jesus dealt more with the attitudes of these women than He did their actions. Martha was rebuked for her wrong attitudes of being “worried and upset.” While Mary was motivated by love, gratitude, and pure joy, Martha was running on the steam of distress and consternation. This was not way to be serving her Lord.
(5) Jesus exposed a problem with Martha’s priorities. Mary had chosen that which was “better” and “necessary” (v. 42); Martha was frazzled and frustrated by a whole host of things (“many things,” v. 41). What was that “better” thing, that which was “necessary,” that which Mary had chosen, and Martha had not? In brief, I think that the “better thing” was abiding in Christ, drawing strength and instruction from Him. It was being taught at the feet of the Master. If there is any one element of discipleship, it is being a learner, and this is what Mary had chosen to do. Martha was preoccupied with ministering to Jesus; Mary with the ministry of Jesus. In the final analysis, He is not dependent upon our ministry to Him, but our life in Him is totally dependent upon His ministry to us. In seeking to serve Jesus, Martha was hindering the sustenance of Jesus in her life, and she even demanded that it be kept from her sister as well.
(6) Jesus exposed a problem of responsibilities. Martha had greatly overstepped her areas of responsibility. Simply put, Martha was responsible only for her attitude, for her service. Martha had extended her responsibility to “many things,” things which were not hers to assume. She felt responsible to direct Mary’s ministry, and even to dictate our Lord’s responsibilities (by demanding He correct Mary). She had begun to assume responsibility for others, while ignoring her own accountability.
Conclusion
We should first seek to understand this event and its meaning in the context of Luke’s gospel. What is the Spirit of God teaching us here, at this point in Luke’s developing argument of the life of Christ? I believe that this story illustrates many of the things which Luke has been emphasizing up to this point, as well as correcting any possible misconceptions. I believe that Luke is, by means of this incident, illustrating what true discipleship is. The essence of discipleship is not our service rendered to Christ, but finding our sustenance in Christ. It is not being a Martha, but a Mary. Discipleship is not so much a teeth-gritting devotion to duty, as a joyful devotion to and dependence on Christ.
Our story is also further evidence of the priorities which characterize our Lord and which should characterize His disciples. One of these priorities is that of being sustained and strengthened by the Word of God as opposed to finding our strength from earthly sustenance, namely food. In the temptation of our Lord by Satan to command stones to become bread, our Lord’s response was, “It is written: ‘Man does not live on bread alone’” (Luke 4:4).
Later in this same chapter, when the disciples found Jesus in prayer, they urged Him to return to the place where He had been, for many were waiting for Him to heal them. Jesus’ reply expressed the priority of the Word of God to meeting man’s physical needs,
At daybreak Jesus went out to a solitary place. The people were looking for him and when they came to where he was, they tried to keep him from leaving them. But he said, “I must preach the good news of the kingdom of God to the other towns also, because that is why I was sent.” And he kept on preaching in the synagogues of Judea (Luke 4:42-44).
In the gospel of John, the same emphasis on deriving our sustenance from Christ is found, but this time using the analogy of a branch finding its life from the vine:
“I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If anyone does not remain in me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you. This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples (John 15:1-8).
In the gospel of Matthew, learning from Jesus is not only taught, but it is taught in such a way as to prevent men from the very things which were eating away at Martha. Learning of Christ is the key to finding rest in Him:
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30).
Later on, in the book of Acts (also authored by Luke), we see the priority of the Word of God to service emphasized in this event:
In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Grecian Jews among them complained against those of the Aramaic-speaking community because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, “it would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word.” This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism. They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them. So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith (Acts 6:1-7).
The New Testament, then, has much to say about the priority of the Word of God in the life of the Christian and in the life of the church. It is not, as some would say, that we “worship the Bible,” but rather that because we worship the Living Word, the Lord Jesus Christ, we fellowship with Him and find sustenance from Him through His Word. By emphasizing the Word of God in the life of the Christian I do not mean to say that we sit at the feet of Jesus like Mary did by sitting through a sermon. Sitting at the feet of our Lord, learning from His word, may be furthered by the insight of gifted teachers, but ultimately we sit at Jesus’ feet when we personally study the Word of God.
I want to be honest with you at this point. While I believe that God has given me the gift of teaching, I am very frequently tempted to forsake my study and the hard work of grappling with the Word of God by finding other ways of serving God. I find that it is a lot easier, in the terms of our text, to be in the kitchen with Martha than to be in the living room with Mary, at the feet of Jesus. Jesus had many hard things to say, many things which the disciples did not want to hear, like Jesus’ instruction concerning His rejection and death. Serving God can often be an excuse for not studying God’s Word. Let us all beware of letting a good thing like service get in the way of the better thing, abiding in Christ through His Word.
But how can we say that being in the Word is more important, “better,” than serving Him? We can say this because abiding in Christ through His Word provides us with both the motivation and the means for serving Him. Service may not result in the study of God’s Word, but honest searching of Scripture will produce service. Just as a branch cannot produce fruit by any other means than by abiding in the vine, so we cannot produce fruit apart from abiding in Christ through His Word.
I believe that Martha’s explosive reaction to Mary’s failure to join her in the kitchen is indicative of a very serious problem in her life. I believe that her problem may be summed up in this way: MARTHA WAS WRONG IN MEASURING HER SIGNIFICANCE IN TERMS OF HER SERVICE
Martha felt that her service was so vital she could demand that Mary come to help her, even though it meant not being there to learn at the feet of the Savior. Martha was so violent in her response that she accused the Lord of wrongdoing by not giving her the “support” she needed in her ministry.
I do not think that Martha would have been so touchy about her ministry if she did not have her “meaning in life” invested in it. The kitchen was the one area which was under Martha’s authority. It was by preparing meals and offering hospitality that Martha saw herself as having value to others. When Jesus’ actions threatened her ability to perform in this area, she strongly reacted. Martha found her ministry to be of too much value to her. She could not put it aside for anything, not even in order to learn at Jesus’ feet. And she could not allow Mary to set it aside, either.
It is amazing that while Christians have come to the point of renouncing their performance, their works, as having anything to contribute to their salvation, they somehow think that their ministry does determine their significance to God, or at least to others. The Scriptures simply do not teach this, for our spiritual gifts, our ministries, and our level of effectiveness are all sovereignly given us by God (1 Corinthians 12:4-6). The one who has a great ministry cannot take the credit, any more than the one with a seemingly insignificant ministry can take any blame. It is only required that we be faithful in using that which God has given us, in the context in which He has placed us.
Over the years I have seen many young men enter seminary and attempt to become pastors primarily because they (often told or taught this by other Christians) believe that this is a more significant ministry, which makes them more significant people. I think this same error lies under much of the struggle women have with the “role of women” taught in the Bible. Why are some women so up tight because they cannot teach and lead men? Because, I fear, they think these are more significant ministries, which would make them more significant people. When we think this way, ministry becomes our master, as it was for Martha. When we think biblically, our Master is our ministry, as He was for Mary.
I find it interesting to note that when our significance is not measured by our service, we are willing to accept either “success” or apparent “failure” in ministry as from God. John the Baptist rejoiced in the demise of his ministry, because he had played out his role, and the Master was being magnified. Paul dealt with many reverses in his life, and yet he was able to see them as from the hand of His sovereign Lord, and he could rejoice, even in the worst of circumstances (cf. Acts 16:25; 2 Corinthians 6; Philippians).
Our Lord’s words to Martha inform us that the magnitude of our ministry is not nearly as important as the motivation of our ministry. It will not be until the day of judgment that the motives of men will be revealed, and thus our ministries should not be judged by us now (cf. 1 Corinthians 4:1-5). Let us beware of seeking to appraise the value of our ministries, since this is something which only God can judge with accuracy.
I was reminded this past week of some excellent work done by Gordon MacDonald, in his book, Ordering Your Private World. He does an excellent job of differentiating between the “called” person and the “driven” person. I believe that given MacDonald’s terminology we would think of Mary as being “called” and Martha as being “driven.” I would like to change the labels and to add a category. I would like to think of Christians as falling into one of three categories: (1) the committed (the “called”), (2) the compulsive (the “driven”), and (3) the complacent.
The committed are those who love the Lord, and whose love and joy motivates them to serve faithfully. The compulsive have to serve, but for the wrong motives, whether it be guilt, fear, or one’s need for approval. The complacent just don’t care. The love is cold, their loyalties divided.
My fear in teaching this passage of Scripture is that someone who is complacent will gratefully say an “Amen” to what they think I have said, so that they are excused from doing anything, but sitting. There are too many sitters already. Mary, I would suggest, was serving while she was sitting. She was, I believe, washing feet, just as Martha was serving in the kitchen. The difference between Mary and Martha is not that one served and the other didn’t, but that one served out of joy and love, the other out of a compulsive need to serve, for her own benefit. Let us be like Mary, serving the Lord with a pure heart, our of gratitude, not guilt or fear or compulsion.
There is yet one final thing that I wish to say as I close. There is no better place to be, no place we are more welcome to be, than at the feet of our Lord. When we fall at His feet, we acknowledge His majesty, power, and goodness, and our need. When we fall at His feet, we rightly reflect the response of the creature to the Creator. No sinner in the New Testament that I am aware of ever hesitated to come to Jesus’ feet. The self-righteous would not be caught dead there, because of their pride and arrogance, but the sinner found the feet of Jesus a place of welcome. You are always welcome at His feet.
But I must say that all men will someday find themselves at Jesus’ feet. His saints, those who have trusted in Him for salvation, will be at His feet in worship, adoration, and praise. But those who have rejected Him will also be at His feet, or, more accurately, under His feet. As I close this message let me remind you of what God Himself has said of the enemies of Christ,
“‘THE LORD SAID TO MY LORD, “SIT AT MY RIGHT HAND, UNTIL I MAKE THINE ENEMIES A FOOTSTOOL FOR THY FEET’” (Acts 2:34, citing Psalm 110:1).
May you come to His feet now, like Mary, in humility, in dependence, and in adoration, for it is He and He alone who welcomes and saves sinners, and who urges them to learn from Him whose yoke is easy and whose burden is light (Matthew 11:28-30).

Tuesday, March 22, 2005

Have you ever?

Stepping up onto my Whiney Box....... Pity Party to the Right!

Have you ever had a day when you feel like you suck? At EVERYTHING? That everyone around you is just plain better than you? Today this is me.......

* A better wife

* A better Mother

* More organized

* Financially secure

* Richer

* Smarter

* Cleaner

* Friendlier

* Happier

* Skinnier

* Prettier

* More creative

* Closer to God

The list could just go on and on here..... Today I feel like the gum stuck to the bottom of your shoe. I know it's partially the medication I am taking and it is partially the truth. I just hate days like today. (sad frown). I HATE not being organized and on top of everything... I just feel like everything is spiraling out of control, yet at the same time I feel so at peace.
I realize I am contradicting myself here but that's how I feel....... So join the pity part. Dump your emotions here, join me on the bottom of a shoe! I'm all ears!

Tomorrow WILL be a better day!

Monday, March 21, 2005

Munch... Munch.. Munch.... MUNCHIES!

Ahhhhhhhhh I have the MUNCHIES!

Do you think the medication Prednisone is possible the devil? I mean seriously... Any one who has ever been on this drug... This steroid... Stand up and say it's true. YES, as an asthmatic I have been on prednisone more times than I can even count. The side affects of this drug are horrible. BUT as my Mother always points out to me, what's worse not breathing or taking the meds. Sigh.... I hate it when Mom's right.

This drug... This steroid is making me crawl out of my skin! I am breathing YES... But I am also starving, bloated, irritable, cranky, tired, and hyper. I mean come on now! At one point last week I was taking 60mg of this lovely drug. One of the worst side effects is the constant hunger. It's not like you just ate 2 hours ago it's like you haven't eaten in 24hrs. If you have ever smoked pot (which come on now you DID inhale) and have had a case of the MUNCHIES then you will feel for me. I am hungry gosh darn it all...........

Hmm at the moment the reeses pieces are loosing their appeal and a hot fudge sundae sounds REALLY good, or a dominoes pizza, or HOT / salty french fries from McDonald's. I could even go for some taco bell nacho's. Could you also PLEASE send me a BIG coke. (yes, Stacy I do realize I am suppose to be giving up soda, however I NEED IT!)

If you have a friend out their currently taking prednisone, don't show up and bring them flowers bring them FOOD! Because honestly that's what they REALLY want and flowers have a horrible after taste. (burp)

Sunday, March 20, 2005

March Of Dimes Walk TODAY!

THANK YOU to everyone who donated towards the March Of Dimes and our walk today. I am really excited as we reached and surpassed our goal of $1,000. Alex will be wearing a special T-shirt made by Daddy. Rick and I will also be wearing our March Of Dimes walking shirts. The March Of Dimes is such an AWESOME cause. THANK YOU again for donating!

Friday, March 18, 2005

Alex just makes my heart smile!

The day after the Woman's retreat a woman who had been there and I had talked to came up and gave me a CD. A "Christian" CD. She insisted I take it. She explained she had been listening to it the night before and thought of me. Especially the first song she said. I was so deeply touched. I mean we were acquaintances and all but... It was VERY unexpected!

Mercyme. - Almost there

Well needless to say I have been listening to this song a lot in the car. I LOVE the first song "I Worship You". The song just really touches me. I usually turn it up and sing along.

Well this morning I get in the car with Alex and of course turn it up. Suddenly, I realize he's singing right along with me! He KNEW the lyrics!!!! I grinned to myself but acted like I didn't notice... He went through the entire song just signing away! My sweet little 2 year old was in the back seat just worshipping right along with me. I LOVED it.. I kinda looked up.. And asked God, are you catching this? Do you see this? Is it not amazing?

So the song ends... And I start clapping! He gets all excited and says AGAIN Mama Again... As I put my hand down to hit the button to play it again he says Jesus loves you. I quickly looked back and said what baby? And he repeats Jesus loves me! I nearly came out of my seat. I realized when ever I listen to that song at the end I always tell him. Jesus Loves you....
HE'S LISTENING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! My sweet little 2 year old hears it all..... Tears rolling down my cheeks, I said yes baby, Jesus DOES Love you. He LOVES listening to you sing his praises. With that my son started the song again!


Mercyme "I Worship You"
I've been walking with a big grin
Singing with my eyes closed
Lifting up my hands
I've been lost in the moment
Sending up praises
Now I think I understand
When I open up and let it flow
I feel your touch and then I know
CHORUS:
I can never live without it
And I'm never gonna doubt it
Everyday it's new, yeah
There's nothing any better
I'll be singing it forever
I worship you
I'm standing on the edge now
Looking to a new place
Going deeper still
The feeling is electric
The power and the glory
Just move me where you will
Cause you take the song and make it fly
Into my soul and that is why
CHORUS:
I can never live without it
And I'm never going to doubt it
Everyday it's new, yeah
There's nothing any better
I'll be singing it forever
I worship you
I just want to dive into your grace
I want to feel your presence, seek your face
I just want to be where you are
I can never live without it
And I'm never gonna doubt it
Everyday is new, yeah

Wednesday, March 16, 2005

.... Still Alive ....

Thank you God, for allowing me yet another wonderful day in this body you have given me!

Yes... I am still alive and finally on the mend. I had a tough time falling asleep but once there I slept hard till about 4am. At that point it was a tight chest, wheezing, and a horrible cough. I took cough medicine, a breathing treatment and back to a deep sleep I went. My sinus's are clearing out, I actually managed a day without emptying a box of tissues. My chest still heavy and sore yet better. I am on the mend... I am praying I have some strength back for our MOD's walk on Sunday.

Alex is doing better as well! He was full of energy today and his nose cleared up. We did breathing treatments every 4hrs as his chest is still crackling and wheezing.

THANK YOU for all your positive thoughts and Prayers.

Sadly... Bad news to report. Rick's Grandmother had difficulty breathing over night and is now hospitalized with congestive heart failure. She is 90, and has a full wonderful life. We ask if this is her time that she go quickly with little pain. She has loved God, all her life and is ready to meet her Father.

Tuesday, March 15, 2005

Update!

Back to the doctors I went this morning...... And I almost didn't make it out. It's amazing what a little begging gets you. My O2 level was pretty low and he wanted to admit me. I felt like I would get better at home. He gave me a shot of steroids... Right in the butt! That's 2 in 2 days! geezz... She started injecting it too fast and boy did it burn. So.. I'm on oral steroids, a steroid inhaler, a rescue inhaler, breathing treatments with steroids every 4hrs, antibiotics, and that's on top of the 2 daily meds I was already on!! The doctor and I finally agreed that if my peek flow test and O2 levels did not rise then I would agree to be admitted and placed on an IV treatment!

Alex also saw the doctor and has a lighter form of what I have. He too is now on antibiotics and breathing treatments every 4hrs. It's like our own hospital here!

My husband is being INCREDIBLE and doing laundry, cooking... Everything!!

Let's pray we see improvement!

Well, It's Official!

Well it's official... I'm SICK!
I ended up last night in the med-stop and after a blood test, an x-ray, a breathing treatment, a shot in the rump...... I have a severe sinus infection and Bronchitis. Luckily I didn't have pneumonia as the doctor was threatening to admit me to the hospital if I did. YUCK.... My chest HURTS when I breathe and I feel pretty crappy.
Alex is headed to the doctor at 11am. I am worried he has the same thing.

Say a little prayer that we both get on the mend quickly!

Monday, March 14, 2005

Goose Bumps and Believers

A story of the Power of Prayer

I found it believable, angels have walked beside me all my life -- and they still do!

A young university student was home for the summer. She had gone to visit some friends one evening and time passed quickly as each shared their various experiences of the past year. She ended up staying longer than planned, and had to walk home alone. She wasn't afraid because it was a small town and she lived only a few blocks away. As she walked along under the tall elm trees, Diane asked "God" to keep her safe from harm and danger. When she reached the alley, which was a shortcut to her house, she decided to take it. However, halfway down the alley she noticed a man standing at the end as though he were waiting for her. She became uneasy and began to pray, asking for "God's" protection. Instantly a comforting feeling of quietness and security wrapped around her, she felt as though someone was walking with her. When she reached the end of the alley, she walked right past the man and arrived home safely. The following day, she read in the newspaper that a young girl had been raped in the same alley just twenty minutes after she had been there. Feeling overwhelmed by this tragedy and the fact that it could have been her, she began to weep. Thanking the Lord for her safety and to help this young woman, she decided to go to the police station. She felt she could recognize the man, so she told them her story. The police asked her if she would be willing to look at a lineup to see if she could identify him. She agreed and immediately pointed out the man she had seen in the alley the night before. When the man was told he had been identified, he immediately broke down and confessed. The officer thanked Diane for her bravery and asked if there was anything they could do for her. She asked if they would asked the man one question. Diane was curious as to why he had not attacked her. When the police man asked him, he answered, "Because she wasn't alone. She had two tall men walking on either side of her."

Moral of the story: Don't underestimate the power of Prayer!

Gives you goose bumps, doesn't it? This is to all of you who mean something to me, I pray for your safety and happiness.

Saturday, March 12, 2005

"A Toadstool or an Oak?""

"A toadstool can pop up over night. An oak tree, on the other hand, takes years to mature to full size. Let's take a look at the friendships in our lives. Have they popped up like toadstools or have they matured as oaks?

Intimacy - genuine intimacy - is not immediate. We expect it to be. The world around us tells us it is. Singles walk into bars and come out as couples. Acquaintances share statistics about kids' ages and skills and assume they've connected.

Toadstool friendships don't require much investment. We camp on common ground, enjoy the instant intimacy that arises and then when it's gone, move on to another spot. But Oak tree friends grow only with a greater investment. Time, availability, vulnerability, risk, spontaneity - these are the ingredients that fertilize an Oak tree friendship.

Are we growing toadstool or oak tree friendships? We'll probably want some of each. But we'll only get the lasting value of an oak tree friendship if we're willing to invest ourselves in our friends. Are we?"

Mom's Devotional Bible - Devotional Reading - Page 288
regarding Bible passage: 1 Samuel 20






Thursday, March 10, 2005

My heart is spilling with Joy!

It's 10:44pm and WAY past my bed time. I am up listening to my son cough and my husband sleep. We had a HUGE moment here tonight. We had just finished watching the Contender and I shut off the TV and rolled over. Rick asks me out of the blue to pray with him. I laid there in the dark stunned not sure what to do. I rolled back over and grabbed his hands and said let's pray. Together in the dark our hearts connected and shot up to God's Grace. It was AWESOME! My husband said things I thought it would takes YEARS for him to say. My Husband Rick, has accepted Christ. I am so proud of him. I had tears streaming down my cheeks, I still have tears streaming down my cheeks. I am beyond excited for him. He thanked God for his incredible life and all the blessings he has given him. He asked for forgiveness for his sins. But most of all he told him, He Loved Him!!!! Hallelujah! I don't think I can even begin to explain what my heart is feeling. I am just Happy.

To My Husband a Song for your heart:

"Open The Eyes of My Heart"
By: Michael W. Smith
Open the eyes of my heart, Lord
Open the eyes of my heart
I want to see You
I want to see You
Open the eyes of my heart, Lord
Open the eyes of my heart
I want to see You
I want to see You
To see You high and lifted up
Shinin' in the light of Your glory
Pour out Your power and love
As we sing holy, holy, holy
Open the eyes of my heart, Lord
Open the eyes of my heart
I want to see You
I want to see You
Open the eyes of my heart, Lord
Open the eyes of my heart
I want to see You
I want to see You
To see You high and lifted up
Shinin' in the light of Your glory
Pour out Your power and love
As we sing holy, holy, holy
Holy, holy, holy
We cry holy, holy, holy
You are holy, holy, holy
I want to see you
Holy, holy, holy
Holy, holy, holy
You are holy, holy, holy
I want to see you
Holy, holy, holy
Holy, holy, holy
Holy, holy, holy,
I want to see you

Gina.. this is for you!

The Heart Of Worship
By: Michael W. Smith
When the music fades
All is stripped away
And I simply come
Longing just to bring
Something that's of worth
That will bless Your heart
I'll bring You more than a song
For a song in itself
Is not what You have required
You search much deeper within
Through the way things appear
You're looking into my heart
I'm coming back to the heart of worship
And it's all about You,
It's all about You, Jesus
I'm sorry, Lord, for the thing I've made it
When it's all about You,
It's all about You, Jesus
King of endless worth
No one could express
How much You deserve
Though I'm weak and poor
All I have is Yours
Every single breath
I'll bring You more than a song
For a song in itself
Is not what You have required
You search much deeper within
Through the way things appear
You're looking into my heart
I'm coming back to the heart of worship
And it's all about You,
It's all about You, Jesus
I'm sorry, Lord, for the thing I've made it
And it's all about You,
It's all about You, Jesus
I'm coming back to the heart of worship,
And it's all about You,
It's all about You, Jesus
I'm sorry, Lord, for the thing I've made it
And it's all about You,
It's all about You, Jesus

WOW.. Counter Frenzy!

WOW.. I never realized how many people visit my Blog. It's almost like I have something interesting to say. Yesterday my Blog was viewed 114 times! Thank you Ana for encouraging me to add the counter to the bottom of my page. This counter gives us so much information beyond just how many times my page has been loaded! I also get full graphs of who has been visiting. This has given me a lot of insight. What I find really interesting is that people who have chosen no longer to be my friend are reading my Blog. Hmmm... Scratching my head. If you don't want to be friends with me why read my personal thoughts?? This really confuses me! I mean I don't mind.. I just more find it interesting! I have had people from 5 different countries. The graphs tell me what page people visit, what was the last website they were on, for Example if they searched for my blog or just linked from Ana's blog. If you have a blog or a website I highly suggest getting a page counter. This way not only are people learning lots about you but also your learning lots about them! :)

So come.. Enjoy.... But Know.. Martha's watching! LOL.......

Wednesday, March 09, 2005

March Of Dimes Bracelet up for Auction!

A friend of mine named Shannon Makes incredible bracelets. She has decided to pitch in to help in my Fundraising efforts for the March of Dimes. She made a great bracelet and placed it up on E-bay to Auction off! She will be donating 50% of the Profits to Our March Of Dimes Walk. Please stop by and help drive up the price or Bid to WIN. Take home this gorgeous bracelet today!!



THANK YOU SHANNON!

Stepping out of the box!

We started going to Church back in November, and 2 weeks ago I finally filled out a comment card. This let's the church leadership team know we are new, and what we are looking for in the church. We decided it was time to join a small bible study group. This is a key to Hope Community Church. Quickly afterwards we were invited to numerous groups. I was nervous. I wasn't sure if Rick was really ready for the intimate sitting of a "bible study". It was a huge stretch into the unknown for both of us. This was something neither of us had ever done. I also needed to think about Alex. Some of the studies we were invited to we couldn't bring him and that just would not have worked for us, as I can't afford to leave him with a babysitter. Plus, I have never actually left him with someone I didn't know and trust. We went Monday Night to our FIRST Bible Study. The couples name who runs it is Vicky and Reny. They actually use to live in San Diego, so to us it was like a bond. Rick and Reny bonded at Church so this was a big help. Also several of the other couples in the group I know from going to MOPS. Vicky and Reny have 6 children all of whom are home schooled. The best part is they only live 5 minutes away from us and we can bring Alex!!!! A bonus to it is that Vicky cooks for us every week which is just incredible. We both had a good time and so did Alex. We learned a few new thing and felt comfortable. So, I think we will be going back as long as the group will have us.

I have also decided to join one of the woman's groups as well. They meet on Wednesday's. Tonight will be my first real time with them. I am actually feeling pretty relaxed about that!

Rick also let it be known on Sunday to our Pastor that he wanted to be involved with the Men's Retreat they are planning. HOORAY for Rick. I am really excited for him. Some of the woman and I were joking with him that we wanted to know what went on at a Men's retreat so we were gonna go peek in the windows at them. heeee..... Anyone's husband been to an all Men's retreat? Fill us in... What goes on?? I am certain it's not all the giggling and crying that went on at mine!


TOTALLY off topic but I am LOVING the Amazing Race with Rob and Amber. I'm sorry but they make a great couple. They have yet to fight with each other and really route each other on. I LOVE that! I know they don't really need the money in comparison to other teams BUT I would really like to see them do well. I like them!

Monday, March 07, 2005

Just Another Manic Monday....

Ahh.. it's Monday again! WHERE did the weekend go? Sigh... I HATE Monday's. They always make me feel like the week is going to be so long. I'm already looking forward to Tuesday. Today is a day of catch up. I have to pay bills, LOADS of laundry and cleaning. Ahh the joys of being a stay at home Mom. LOL....

We had a gorgeous day here on Saturday. We spent our Morning at the park and our afternoon in the yard. We finally got the back hill cleared and it looks great. Rick dug up stumps and I pulled huge honeysuckle branches out of the tree's. It was actually pretty fun. We got a lot done.

We watched 2 movies this weekend. The first was Mr. 3000 with Bernie Mac. It was a very light movie but pretty funny. It had some great one liners. I highly suggest it if you like baseball, comedy and want something not too deep! The second movie we watched was First Daughter with Katie Holmes. Rick thought this movie was stupid. It was cute in a cheesy Girly kind of way! LOL. It had a twist I wasn't expecting, and it was slightly funny. But mostly just a feel good movie! I suggest Both!!!! Ohh.. and for the kids.. Alex rented Elmopalooza At Hollywood Video it's a FREE rental! LOVE THAT! The singing and dancing is great and Alex loved it!

Yesterday we drove around searching for a house for Rick's parents to buy! It's fun shopping but hard when it's not for you. We found an incredible house BUT.. it wouldn't work for them. So we are searching!! We shall see what will happen.

Off to my chores!

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Manic Monday By: The Bangles
Six o'clock already
I was just in the middle of a dream
I was kissin' Valentino
By a crystal blue Italian stream
But I can't be late
'Cause then I guess I just won't get paid
These are the days
When you wish your bed was already made
It's just another manic Monday
I wish it was Sunday
'Cause that's my funday
An I-don't-have-to-run day
It's just another manic Monday
Have to catch an early train
Got to be to work by nine
And if I had an aeroplane
I still couldn't make it on time
'Cause it takes me so long
Just to figure out what I'm gonna wear
Blame it on the train
When the bus is already there
It's just another manic Monday
I wish it was Sunday
'Cause that's my funday
An I-don't-have-to-run day
It's just another manic Monday
All of the nights
Why did my lover have to pick last night
To get down
Doesn't it matter
That I have to feed the both of us
Employment's down
He tells me in his bedroom voice
C'mon honey, let's go make some noise
Time it goes so fast
When you're having fun
It's just another manic Monday
I wish it was Sunday
'Cause that's my funday
An I-don't-have-to-run day
It's just another manic Monday

Sunday, March 06, 2005

For all My Southern Friends!

Yes.. I am The Yankee Transplant to the South! I have been here for almost a year now and am actually starting to love it. (shhhh.. Don't tell my Northern friends)!!! My Mom (a born and bread Yankee) just sent me this e-mail and I was in stitches! I HAD to share!!

Southern Girls Someone once noted that a Southerner can get away with the most awful kind of insult just as long as it's prefaced with the words, "Bless her heart" or "Bless his heart." As in, "Bless his heart, if they put his brain on the head of a pin, it'd roll around like a BB on a six lane highway.

"Or, "Bless her heart, she's so buck-toothed, she could eat an apple through a picket fence." There are also the sneakier ones: "You know, it's amazing that even though she had that baby 7 months after they were married, bless her heart, it weighed 10 pounds."

As long as the heart is sufficiently blessed, the insult can't be all that bad. I was thinking about this the other day when a friend was telling about her new Transplanted Northern friend who was upset because her toddler is just beginning to talk and he has a Southern accent. My friend, who is very kind and, bless her heart, cannot do a thing about those thighs of hers, was justifiably miffed about this. After all, this woman had CHOSEN to move to the South a couple of years ago. Can you believe it?" said her friend.. "A child of mine is going to be "taaaallllkkin liiiike thiiiissss.."

Now, don't get me wrong. Some of my dearest friends are from the North, bless their hearts. I welcome their perspective, their friendships and their recipes for authentic Northern Italian food. I've even gotten past their endless complaints that you can't find good bread down here. And the heathens, bless their hearts, don't like cornbread!

We've already lost too much. I was raised to say "swanee," not swear, but you hardly ever hear anyone say that anymore, I swanee you don't.

And I've caught myself thinking twice before saying something is "right much," "right close," or "right good" because non-natives think this is right funny indeed. I have a friend from Bawston who thinks it's hilarious when I say I've got to "carry" my daughter to the doctor or "cut off" the light. She also gets a giggle every time I am "fixin'" to do something.

And, bless their hearts, they don't even know where "over yonder" is or what "I reckon" means!

My personal favorite was my aunt, saying, "Bless her heart, she can't help being ugly, but she could've stayed home.

"Southern girls know bad manners when they see them:
1. Drinking straight out of a can.
2. Not sending thank you notes.
3.. Velvet after February.
4. White shoes before Easter or after Labor Day.

Southern girls always say:
1. "Yes, ma'am."
2. "Yes, sir."

Southern girls have a distinct way with fond expressions:
1. "Y'all come back! Now ya heaah,"
2. "Well, bless your heart."
3. "Drop by when you can."
4. "How's your mother?"
5. "Love your hair."

Southern girls know their three R's!:
1. Rich
2. Richer
3. Richest

Southern girls know everybody's first name:
1. Honey
2. Darlin'
3. Sugah

Southern girls know the movies that speak to their hearts:
1. "Gone With the Wind"
2. "Fried Green Tomatoes"
3. "Driving Miss Daisy"
4. "Steel Magnolias"

Southern girls know their cities dripping with Southern charm:
1. Hotlanta or Adlanna =( Atlanta as outsiders say)
2. Richmon
3. Challston
4. S'vannah
5. Birminham
6. Nawlins'
7. OH! And that city in Alabama ? It's pronounced MUNTGUMRY!

Southern girls know the three deadly sins:
1. Bad hair
2. Bad manners
3. Bad blind dates

G.R.I.T.S. = Girls Raised in The South!

Now you run along, Sugah, and send this to someone else Raised In The South, i.e., Southern Belles, or ANY females aspiring to be GRITS. Even the northern ones, "Bless Their Hearts". That Reminds me. I have a rubber stamp that says "Just because your children were born in the South does not make them Southerners. After all, if a cat had kittens in the oven, that wouldn't make them biscuits." Bless Yer Hearts

Friday, March 04, 2005

"Donald Trump is like God"

My Husband Rick is just finding God in his life. It's hard to say exactly where he is at, as the words have not come directly out of his mouth that he has accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior. Together we have begun this journey. I am obviously slightly ahead of him and a little more open with my heart. He's a "guy", he's unsure of the waters ahead. He's nervous and I think slightly afraid of acceptance. Together we are reading the "Purpose Driven Life", and occasionally he makes funny comments that let me know he truly is grasping the readings. Last night was one of those moments.

Were sitting on the couch together watching "The apprentice" NBC.com> The Apprentice
They show Donald Trump making this Grand Entrance coming out of the sky by his own personal Helicopter. One of the females .. Makes the comment about how Donald Trump is God, he parts the sky and makes a grand entrance enters like God. Rick says out of the blue "God wouldn't like that. He wouldn't like that Donald Trump is trying to be like Him, Or that people refer to him as God because he has a lot of money." I busted out with happy laughter! Your right Honey.. He wouldn't!! OMG.. My husband got it!

"You're cheating on God. If all you want is your own way, flirting with the world every chance you get, you end up enemies of God and his way." James 4:4

"Real security can only be found in that which can never be taken from you - your relationship with God." Rick Warren

"If you are untrustworthy about worldly wealth, who will trust you with the true riches of heaven?" Luke 16:11

Thursday, March 03, 2005

Life in the Military!

It's funny how God lays opportunities before you.....

I stumbled upon a "strangers" Blog the other day and started reading. His name is Caleb and he's 22 and currently stationed in Iraq. How COOL is it that the every day public can go on this journey with him. Imagine what it must be like over there? His posts are witty, and full of emotion. I find him intelligent yet yearning for so much more. I asked If I could place his link here on my Blog and he agreed! So if you have the time please stop by and say Hello to Caleb! Machine Gun Medic

I also found a link on his site to be very interesting! I posted a few days ago how my friends husband was sent to Iraq as well. You can now send care packages to any soldier or even one you know through this site. Treats for Troops! Care package, military care packages, care package for troops (yes, Caleb's mailing address is on his Blog and he would LOVE to get a care package)! You can foster a soldier, or even send a group gift to a unit. PLUS the soldiers get to register there. I know how excited I get when a package arrives. Imagine not seeing any friends or families (not to mention the living conditions) and a package arrives with YOUR name on it. How cool for them. You also can pick if you want to donate to a male or female, even someone from your own home state!! PLEASE if you can send a little package to our Military out there honoring our Country and Protecting your freedom it would be great. These people risk their lives on a daily basis.

Wednesday, March 02, 2005

Another Piece is gone....

When I got pregnant my Mother bought us a GORGEOUS Legacy Crib. It was very expensive. Our expectation was that it would work for more than one child. Sadly, of course we can't have more children. To make it worse Alex is the worse sleeper ever and he maybe slept in it a total of 20 times. Rick has been saying for some time now that we need to sell it. It's big and bulky. Heck we have already moved it across the country from CA to AL, and then again from AL to MS.
This week http://www.cooperscloset.com/page2.html Cooper's Closet is in town. It is a HUGE consignment Sale. Well, I decided it was time. We took the crib out of storage, cleaned it up, and off it went. We brought it over last night and began to set it up. Within minutes before it was even put together we had a woman asking about it. SOLD.... yep she bought it on the spot. Whoa.... I wasn't expecting that.

I swallowed hard as we walked away last night.... It was yet another piece of Alex's babyhood gone never to be seen again. One more nail in the coffin saying your not having any more children. I know it was time but it doesn't make it any easier. The most interesting part was the Mother who bought it was 42, and had a 13 year old son and a 10 year old daughter. This was an unexpected pregnancy. She is 15 weeks along and having a boy. She looked shell shocked, like a deer in headlights. I think she is trying to adjust to needing all this "stuff". LOL.. I looked her square in the face and told her "This may have been an unplanned pregnancy on your part but not on God's. God never does anything accidentally." She hugged me and told me that was exactly what she needed to hear. I walked away knowing my Babies Crib was going to give great comfort to another baby, yet still a little sad.