Let it Snow

It might be my fault.

I have been so guilt ridden that I thought I should just come out with it: I prayed for snow.

Here's what I'm seeing out my living room window today. Sipping coffee in my spot on the couch is really wondrous most mornings - God provides the artwork...

A few months ago when I was poking about at TJMaxx I came upon a set of aluminum snow shoes. And I thought...wow...that was actually on my list: rent snowshoes for my hub and I for Christmas day. At 69.99 I thought it might be ok to buy them.

Of course he would likely get tired snowshoe-ing with me on his back, so next I had to find a second pair. While TJMaxx is one of my very favorite stores because there is no apparent rhyme or reason to what is in stock, it's not a great store in which to find a second one of anything. When you call ahead, you basically have to hope that the clerk is willing to dig through a lot of stuff to see if what you're looking for is there. It's not like they have a snow shoe section. (they were under the hat rack, if you're wondering)

A second pair was located. An hour drive, but it was worth it.

And then I prayed for snow.

God and I musta been on a super close wave length that day, cuz we're breaking records here in Milwaukee. I thought we had a lot last year, but this is totally ridiculous. We will indeed have a very white Christmas, and we will indeed have the opportunity to try out and become experts at snowshowing.

So, fellow Milwaukeeans, I'm sorry...I think it's my fault.

But it really is beautiful from our kitchen patio door. Tomorrow we'll hop right out this door and head to the woods - on snow shoes!

Merry Christmas!

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Inspired

Can you even believe that the Tour of Homes has over 900 participants? That's 3 a day to view between now and when I decorate for Christmas 2009!!

One of the homes REALLY inspired me (#5 Mary (Megardengal) when I saw a set of doors used as a headboard on a bed. We desperately needed a new headboard, and I knew that we had some old solid wood doors in the basement. And so, although I had 12 guests coming for a turkey dinner, on Saturday I had my hub drag a bi fold door up just to audition it as a headboard. Hours later, it was dusted, oiled and hung...

Today I bought it a wreath.

It's spectacular. And it was free! Since it was stained to match our dark woodwork, it fits in perfectly, and it's just different enough to be interesting. I'm really excited about it...this photo does not do it justice, but you can get the idea.

I'm not exactly speeding through those homes on tour, but I have completed three projects as a result of the 10 homes visited thus far. Our kitchen window decor was inspired by something similar, as were the the jingle bells hanging from the chandelier, and also the headboard.

Fun little details added from items I already had in the house. Fa-la-la-la-la!

Wise Words

Having just received a very lovely email video, entitled "Hot ChocolateHL.pps" I want to include the adorable graphic along with some very wise words. I saw no credits on the video - whoever created it did a lovely job - thank you!





The happiest people don't have the best of everything. The just make the best of everything they have!
Live Simply...
Love Generously...
Care Deeply...
Speak Kindly...
And leave the rest to God.

Remember, the richest person is not the one who has the most, but the one who needs the least.

Such a lovely reminder for this time of year. Good night

2008 Christmas Tour of Homes

To see the other homes on tour, click on the logo above or HERE. You'll see the hostess' home (Boo Mama) followed by a LONG LONG list of links for other decor tours.

Welcome to our Wisconsin home. This is our second year in this home, and our first "tour."

When you enter our front door, you are in a spacious foyer. The wall directly in front of you holds the chalkboard. The doorway to the living room is pictured to the left, and the coffee bar is the doorway to the right. We love to add personalized greetings to the chalkboard.

The coffee bar is behind pocket doors which are always open. You can grab a cup, and make the coffee right there. The snowman mugs are perfect for cocoa.



Two double bookshelves line the foyer wall next to the living room doorway. The baskets above are lit each night by a ropelight which recesses into the top of the book case. For the holidays we nestled our village into two small shelves of one of the bookcases.

At the corner of the bookshelves is a 4 foot tree, covered with snowmen. Before snowmen were all the rage I began collecting them, and they have multiplied. Smiling snowmen are tucked onto shelves throughout the house. The snowman lamp is always on to welcome you in from the cold.

Across the foyer from the wall of bookshelves is an open staircase to the lower level. This red tin punch mirror is adorned with a hand needlepoint wreath ornament that I made my mother in junior high. She treasured it, and it hung on her dressing mirror year round.


The doorway to the left of the snowman lamp takes you into the kitchen. Greenery on the plate rack holds "teacups and gingerbread" ornaments. All kitchen themed ornaments hang here.


Adding these lights and ornaments above the kitchen sink makes clean up a little more fun. And our dear neighbors actually moved their tree in front of their family room window so that I could see it out my kitchen window. Can you see it in the distance? It's a cheery scene.

Our kitchen Advent Candle is lit each Sunday. This candelabra is more than 15 years old, and is one of many family traditions that we have maintained with our four children.


The living room and dining room are one long room. One end is flanked with a three part china cabinet. The two end units are pictured below. The center unit has frosted, beveled glass doors, and that is where the "Happy Birthday Jesus" is hanging. The Christmas china, on the top shelf of one unit, was a wedding gift some 24 years ago...





The creche, on the bottom shelf, belonged to my husband's grandmother. His father brought back various animals for the scene, hand carved from olive wood, when he traveled to Bethlehem.


The dining room table is often aglow with candle light.


Jingling Bells hang from the chandelier.


Our fireplace is two sided - the mantle on the dining room side holds a large hand painted nativity set.


The tree is always the center of attention. Each of the four kids have an ornament collection in addition to our family ones. Frasier firs are my favorite, but their thin branches are weighed down by December 25!



The tiny plastic nativity scene was purchased when our youngest was 2. (1997) We spent many hours looking for those animals and that baby over the years. This plastic set was well enjoyed by Jake's little hands.

The family room is snowman headquarters. And of course the stockings are hung by that chimney with care.



This Charles Wysocki print is entitled "Pie for the Parson." It was a gift to my father, a retired minister, from a couple in his church - given in 1993. I love commemorating his 50 plus years of ministry with it.

Thank you for visiting! Merry Christmas!

Decadence

If you've been reading here long, you might know that I love a good cup of coffee. Love. We have a great coffee maker that grinds the beans and everything. However, it does take a bit of work to clean out the grinder area, refill, etc etc. I often just opt for a cup of nescafe instant, unless we're having guests.

Until now. I've bought myself a wee gift. I'll have to blame Rush Limbaugh.

While traveling to a client lunch with my boss, we heard Rush raving about the Keurig individual coffee system. Raving. My boss was instantly intrigued. We stopped at a local store, where he purchased one, along with the individual coffee cups. Later I bought one, at SUBSTANTIAL savings, at Sam's Club. The one I bought is pictured here.

You never touch the filters, or the coffee. It is simplicity defined. It's pricier - about 40 cents a cup if you don't get the coffee cups on sale, but I am fine with 2 cups from each pod - the second cup is weaker but still good. My husband can have regular. I can have flavored. Anna had hot chocolate this morning. At the press of a button. In 30 seconds. It's absolute convenience.

My husband, accountant that he is, was balking. So I just ordered him a single cup keurig filter - he can (and will) putter with refilling it with his coffee. I also ordered the spinning rack to hold the k cups - one for me and one for my boss. (Christmas gift for the man who has EVERYTHING)

The kids can make the regular hot chocolate packets. Without a pod inserted, it simply fills the cup with very hot water. Hot chocolate and tea will likely be made like this.

But for my one cup of coffee each morning, and maybe a decaf at night...I'm going to splurge. Bed, Bath & Beyond gives me 20% off coupons weekly, and they sell the pods. So I figure if I can get 1.5 cups out of each pod, each cup is less than a quarter. The pod is tiny - way less waste than a Starbucks cup.

I had my first (and second) cup in the last two hours. I love the ease and the freshness.

Bye Bye Nescafe!

Full Throttle

Christmas is a busy and wonderful season in our home. The days are flying by, but all is quite well. I did miss doing an Advent posting, so must do two today...but I'm forgiving myself as I've had QUITE a month thus far.

• Thanksgiving was, of course, only two weeks ago. We had a picture perfect, heart filled Thanksgiving. The best of my life. My brother, his wife, my dad, we six, and two co workers shared warm fellowship and delectable bird at our dining room table. The evening was filled with our music. Truly, the only word was magical.
• The next day I drove two hours north to sing at a funeral. The first of two funerals that were necessarily squeezed into this full two weeks. My friend's dad - I had to be there for her.
• Saturday we began to decorate in earnest.
• Sunday I drove to Minneapolis for my brother's concert where he sang the bass solos in the Messiah. He told me that my fitting that 12 hour round trip excursion into my season was the best gift he had ever received from a sibling. Is that not worth while? Investing in relationship.
• Monday I drove home, stopping at a central Wisconsin hospital for work. Listened to an amazing and edifying book on CD the whole way, along with The Messiah. Amazing.
• Monday night our worship team practiced in our living room, 45 minutes after I got home!
• Worked all week.
• Friday the 5th was "Dickens of a Christmas," where our quintet sang, some with guitar and much a cappella, for 1.5 hours in our downtown village square. Afterward we enjoyed food and fellowship at the local pizza pub.
• Saturday the 6th we had 20 neighbors over in the evening. Anna, our 16 year old, came through BIG TIME and worked side by side with me all day. She cleaned and I decorated. I kept the hors d'oeuvres simple, and had asked the neighbors to bring something sweet. We truly worked like crazy all day. I kept telling myself that what needed to get done would get done - because I had not procrastinated - there had not been time to do more preparation. By the time the first neighbor arrived, the house was fully clean and decorated. It was SUCH a push, but for me the push is necessary... I am now able to enjoy our Christmas setting all month - and that major job of decorating and deep cleaning was done by the first week end due to that deadline.
• Sunday was full with music practice after church. Later, a friend and I attended a "Messiah Sing a Long," a fabulous experience. A full community orchestra, some amazing soloists, and we - the congregation - seated by vocal part and standing to sing the choral sections. LOVED THAT.
• Sunday night my husband and I and the two youngest spent time with my dad at his nursing home.
• Monday was blessedly a day OFF work. Breathe. Read. Write. Pray.
• Monday night - worship practice.
• Tuesday night - a snow storm cancelled a dinner with friends - worked late to get caught up. Managed to get 330 cards mailed from work - part of the client relations part of my job.
• Wednesday evening - a funeral of a dear 64 year old friend. Lingered at the church, getting caught up with many friends. Very difficult loss, but a celebratory and honoring funeral.
• Thursday evening- led our church's women's Christmas celebration. Sang some carols and shared a brief devotional. Enjoyed warm fellowship.
• Friday - 8 am to 1:30 am...at work or at my bosses home...hostessing the Christmas dinner. 54 people at his home. Catered meal and then a gambling casino with black jack, craps, and poker. Each person received $500 (fake) dollars in chips to play with, and received raffle tickets according to their winnings. WHAT a blast. WHAT an incredible amount of work. I've decided that hosting a party in someone ELSE's home on someone else's behalf is nerve wracking. I wanted everything to be perfect. Thankfully he has a housekeeper who did all the cleaning and had Christmas decor up. I supervised the moving of furniture by a couple young co workers, followed by the table and chair rental set up. Mid afternoon the caterers arrived and began prepping, and also set the tables with rented linens and dishes. I added the "extras" to the tables, and arranged all the centerpieces which became prizes later for the casino night. The hardest part of the evening was figuring out who sat where and with whom - office politics you know. I dressed and readied at his house, and the guests began arriving at 6:30. (The host wisely did not make his return from work until 5:30 pm - he missed all the hard parts!! ) I had previously made 3 large containers of my frozen Christmas slush which was the drink of the night, (spiked or not) and had hired a bartender who arrived right before dinner. She also served wine, beer, soda and limited mixed drinks. WHAT a production. I'm pleased to report a COMPLETE success. I was busy the entire evening, orchestrating the movement of people and chairs and activities. "Mr. Blackjack" began arriving during dinner, and they set up a full casino in the lower level while the party supped on the main floor. I must say, this party WAS a challenge for me, and today I'm still in my jammies at noon, sipping coffee, dozing and recapping the last few weeks in my mind.

I'm very very content. Yes, it's been a blurrrrrr at times, but it's what I want to do at this time of year. The only stressful time, where I really wondered HOW we were going to pull it off , was last Saturday with the neighbors coming and the house not ready. Otherwise it has all moved like clockwork and has been so gratifying and FUN. I am SO thankful for good health and stamina and such a full roster of friends and family. Although I'm completely spent today, I was able to sleep in a bit, and here I am staring at the tree, listening to Boomer snore, and blogging. I hope to post a few dozen Christmas cards today, but if I don't, I don't...

THIS is what the season is to me. It is a challenge, and it is a hustle and a bustle. My goal is to prioritize people. No one else on our block would have hosted the party - hospitality seems to be such a lost art. The neighbors lingered and so enjoyed one another's company. I felt so privileged to facilitate that, and that satisfaction outweighs that day's exhaustion.

Our home is warm and glowing, drawing us to stay in and sip warm beverages. The work of decorating creates that inviting atmosphere, and entertaining is simpler for the month of activity. Some might scale back for simplicity, and that is perfectly right for them, but to create beauty fills me more than it depletes me. It's how I'm wired., and draws me to home.

Last night was a gift to my boss. He has a huge 12,000 sqaure foot home, but when he was married they were never able to pull off such a shindig, and now, divorced, he certainly doesn't do it on his own. He was choked up as he told me what that party, that huge house full of laughter and happy memories, meant to him. I am so honored to spend myself on PEOPLE. Happy memories. I can rest in January! :)

I am in the Word in the Word each morning due to the flexibility of my job, to stay connected to the Lord during this, His season. He is the source of my energy as surely as the electricity lights up the Christmas tree. I'm finally old enough to realize that without Him I can do nothing. (John 15:5) Singing is another time commitment, but our songs are all about HIM. It was exciting to bring Christian carols to a secular setting last week end. And of course at church God is honored by our efforts and the congregation is blessed. What is Christmas without music? How INCREDIBLE to experience Handel's Messiah live with the orchestra, even if sight reading the choral parts was a bit daunting. That afternoon was a Christmas gift I gave to myself.

I will sing to the Lord, Because He has dealt bountifully with me. Psalm 13:6

The women's gathering was so intimate, filled each of us up. My friend's home was warm and literally glowing with Christmas, the perfect backdrop as the women shared happy memories and we focused on Him. Relationships grew.

This is an amazing December. I feel so blessed to be so blessed. My organizational gifts are being stretched and used. It blesses me to use the voice He gave me. I've nurtured a love for His Word, and am honored to be invited to share that as well. We've celebrated the Advent candle and readings each week as a family too- our children are content and anticipating THEIR time of attention in their weeks of Christmas break. Joey and Emily will be home for a month soon -we have a lot of celebrating left to do!

This year I feel that I am right where God wants me, doing just what He has called me to do, and I stand amazed as I recap it all in type. I'm living in my sweet spot. It's been a blessed month, and it's only the 13th! No regrets.

December is full. To the brim. But not overflowing. It is my heart that is overflowing.

Blogging

Our oldest daughter Emily, age 19, is reading the advent blog daily, along with her roommate and her boyfriend. This SO THRILLS MY HEART that that blog is priority these days. I'll try to post here too now and then, but likely I won't be back here consistently until after Christmas.

WHEW

Just wrote the preceding blog. Next I began my list for today, and also went to itunes to download today's podcasts. I follow three podcasts: Joyce Meyer's, Living on the Edge, and Kay Arthur.

I download them daily (or so) and then listen on the treadmill and in the car. (my ipod plugs into the car stereo system)

As they were downloading, I noticed Kay Arthurs' title from yesterday: Surpassing Peace for the Righteous. I clicked on it, so that I'd be listening to it in the background as I work on my menu and to do list...

Guesss what passage Kay is teaching? ISAIAH 26.

WHEW. God is definitely keeping me in that passage.

Perfect Peace

My dear buddy Margo just called. When schedules allow, we pray together at 7:30 am on Friday mornings. Margo is a mentor in my life, and was one of my Bible study leaders when I was a young mom. Margo and I have history.

She asked if she could recite her "piece" to me over the phone. She has been asked to be Elizabeth on Sunday, to recite some of what Elizabeth may have been thinking, based on Luke 1, and then light the second advent candle. Margo wrote the recitation herself.

Tears ran down my face as I listened to what Margo had written. The story of Elizabeth and Zechariah gives me such hope, as I've written before, and Margo's way with words and her passion for the Truth touched my heart.

Margo's (Elizabeth's) introduction included, "I'm here to tell you that you can have peace in the midst of heartache and pain. You can have peace when your world is turned upside down. And you can have peace when you're waiting with anticipation and hope for what God will do in the future."

THAT is exactly what God has been teaching me through Luke 1.

Yesterday I landed on the verse in Isaiah

Is 26:3 “The steadfast of mind You will keep in perfect peace, Because he trusts in You.

This verse so encouraged me, and I tentatively chose it as the theme verse for the fall 2009 retreat I've been asked to lead for our church. How to experience God's peace in fallen world. And today Margo, as Elizabeth, recited that verse to me - the only verse cited in the 3 minute narrative prepared for this coming Sunday.

And so, first thing on a cold and crisp Friday morning in December, God has warmed my heart and whispered in my ear, "Grace, you're on the right track." When God brings thoughts to me as I study His word and talk to Him, and then they are reinforced from another direction, it is a very personal "hug" experience for me. I LOVE it when that happens. God shows me that He orchestrates details right down to what verse I am reading to prove that He is indeed the artist designing the tapestry of my life. Generally I see the underside - a seemingly unrelated mish mash of colored thread. But once in a while, a pocket of joy, He allows me to see the pattern.

At this moment in time I am in perfect peace, because I trust in Him.

Thank you Lord.

My Personality

Yup...that's me. I took this test about 6 years ago and got about the same results. Extrovert/Introvert is a pretty close run, as is Thinker/Feeler.

These tests always amaze me.

Cardinals

My mom loved cardinals. And now I do. I can't help it - I think it's genetic. When a bright red bird arrives on my bird feeder I drop everything. They mesmerize me. A couple mornings ago a small female was on the feeder - must have been a 2008 nestling.

Today at The Clinic (there on business) I wandered into the art gallery on the first floor where there are always interesting displays of (expensive) local art. Today there were a lot of gift items for the holidays mixed in with the art.

I spotted cardinals. In birch trees. I LOVE birch trees. And so this plate came home with me. There is something about it that simply makes me smile. When I have more time I'll do a cardinal display around it on a shelf for the holidays.

I think it's time to put more black sunflower seeds in the feeder...baked, of course. I really do love those cardinals...

Driving

On Friday I drove to Two Rivers, Wisconsin to sing at a friends' dad's funeral. Four hours in the car, alone.
On Sunday I drove to Minneapolis to hear my oldest brother sing two of the bass solos in The Messiah. 1.5 hours with Joey, our oldest son in the car, and then 4 hours alone.
On Monday I drove from Minneapolis to Marshfield, WI, and then home. About 8 hours of driving in the car alone.

AND I LOVED IT.

The CD player held The Messiah - the full 2 CD set, and also Beth Moore's book Get Out of that Pit. What a great great book that is.

Even though I put a whole lot of miles on this week end, I feel as though I worshipped for the majority of them. I actually feel refreshed.

2008 Christmas Tour of Homes

That cute little button to the left signifies that I am going to participate in an online tour of homes. You can read more about it here.

Out on a (frasier fir) limb...

One of my "bucket list" entries is to write and publish a book. And one of the book ideas has been, for years, a book on preparing for Christmas.

I celebrate Christmas in a big way. I love the decor, the music, the cards, the gifts, the special foods, the entertaining....and I tend to do it all. I have it down to a *relatively* stress-free system, and actually ENJOY the preparation as well as the festivities. I have a passion to help women to enjoy the season rather than drown in it. Doing it ALL is so unnecessary -putting Christ back into Christmas is a really good place to start.

In recent years I've found a lot of good advent resources and have realized that perhaps the world does not need yet another Advent book. But the idea is still percolating within me. I've come to realize that I'm gifted in the area of organization, and truly I'd like to share that gift, and incorporate it into my passion for the Word of God.

And so...drum roll please...I'm going out on a limb (time wise and commitment wise) to kick off an advent blog: Advent-ful December is officially open. Each day in December, take a minute to turn your heart and mind upward to find Him in your preparation. It's not going to be linked to this blog as it will be open to the public. No personal info - just Advent. Share it with whomever you like!

Take a peek. The entries will simply be dated - jump in when you can. I'll be writing as time allows, so pace yourself! :) Perhaps I'll post a week ahead...you just never know.

Enjoy. Participate. And may God enrich your Christmas in a whole new way.

Thanksgiving

Psalm 73:25-28

Whom have I in heaven but You? And besides You, I desire nothing on earth. My flesh and my heart may fail, But God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. For, behold, those who are far from You will perish; You have destroyed all those who are unfaithful to You. But as for me, the nearness of God is my good; I have made the Lord God my refuge, That I may tell of all Your works.

The nearness of my God - for that I am so very thankful.
Amen.

Distractions

So, I got up before 6:30 am, knowing that I needed my hour on the couch with Bible, journal, coffee and Boomer before this busy and wonderful day.

I opened up the new laptop and LOGOS. I am loving this resource more each day, and marking up the NASB95 Bible with electronic colors, adding notes, reading the original languages (word by word...don't be too impressed...)

I decided to investigate a book on prayer and opened Handbook to Prayer by Kenneth Boa. Instantly hooked. Fabulous prayer guide for daily use, complete with three months of guiding through Bible verses and parts of prayer. Whew. Right here at the touch of a button.

Then I thought, hmmmmmm...is Libronix bigger than LOGOS? Libronix is the system of online storage. So I googled Libronix.

That somehow took me to www.librarything.com.

OH OH.

An online cataloging of owned books. It's quick and simple. But I own a lot of books. So far I just added what is sitting right here next to me, but that was enough trouble because from there you can see who else has that particular book on their shelf, read a review, and WORST OF ALL...see what else THAT person has on their shelf.

And there's more. But I put an end to distraction and closed after about 15 minutes.

And now here I am putting YOU at risk because if you love books you're gonna be HOOKED on this new treasure.

Misery loves company.

November Calendar

Happily Noted

It is humbling to see yourself in your children. Sometimes it is nauseating. Occasionally it is gratifying.

This morning as I headed downstairs to the treadmill, I heard water running and checked in the girls' bathroom. Anna had assured me that it was clean for Emily's Thanksgiving homecoming, but I hadn't inspected. I jiggled the toilet knob, and happily surveyed a very clean bathroom. Yes, she got that clean gene from me, but that was not the best part.

On the mirror were two post it notes. Upon closer inspection I saw a devotional quote and a Bible verse. My heart is full. Thanksgiving is real in me this morning. Our 16 year old daughter is imitating what she has seen me do with Scripture. Thank you Lord.

Sad Puppy

Boomer had a softball sized fatty tumor removed yesterday. It was benign, but large and growing. So today I have a very sad and dopey dog.

Snow Covered

We awoke to a world of white. The view from the bedroom window is magical - icing covering the brown of late autumn. Instant transformation.

That's how God sees me, and anyone else who confesses Christ as their Savior.

Isaiah 1:18 “Come now, and let us reason together,” Says the Lord, “Though your sins are as scarlet, They will be as white as snow; Though they are red like crimson, They will be like wool."

He sees me through the blood of Christ, and He sees me as pure as the driven snow.


2 Corinthians 5:21 He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.


It is a beautiful mystery. Although I'm still trapped in my sinful flesh, in a sinful world, Christ's work is done and I simply need believe. And obey. Obedience is a part of my sanctification - becoming more like Christ - a process of growth which proves my faith. Obedience is not the way to heaven, but simply provides the landmarks assuring me that I'm on the right path...the only path. It proves my confession of faith.


John 14:15 “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments." [-Jesus]


This world is more beautiful with the covering of fresh white powder. I am more beautiful as I abide in Him and let Him transform me. Obedience has a price, but what I surrender is worthless - dead and brown and withered in comparison. What I gain is eternal life, and peace in this journey.

Let it snow.

Jehovah rapha

Exodus 15:22-27

Ex 15:22 Then Moses led Israel from the Red Sea, and they went out into the wilderness of Shur; and they went three days in the wilderness and found no water.
Ex 15:23 When they came to Marah, they could not drink the waters of Marah, for they were bitter; therefore it was named Marah.
Ex 15:24 So the people grumbled at Moses, saying, “What shall we drink?”
Ex 15:25 Then he cried out to the Lord, and the Lord showed him a tree; and he threw it into the waters, and the waters became sweet.
There He made for them a statute and regulation, and there He tested them.
Ex 15:26 And He said, “If you will give earnest heed to the voice of the Lord your God, and do what is right in His sight, and give ear to His commandments, and keep all His statutes, I will put none of the diseases on you which I have put on the Egyptians; for I, the Lord, am your healer.”
Ex 15:27 Then they came to Elim where there were twelve springs of water and seventy date palms, and they camped there beside the waters.

Jehovah rapha. Is there a more appealing name for God in all of Scripture? Our healer.

It's interesting to read this verse in context. IF you listen to the LORD, IF you do what is right in HIS sight (the only relevant standard), pay attention to His commandments (the Word) and keep His laws...THEN...God will put none of the diseases on you. The bitter waters of the world can be sweet to us when we follow God's leading and do things His way. Or perhaps He'll move us to a safer Elim - and cause us to leave the world's waters. It's His call.

We just like the healer part, don't we? We want to shirk the responsibility for the rest. We want to be able to live however we want, do whatever we please and then run to God to fix the mess.

Let me be clear: physical illness is NOT all due to sin. In John 9:1-3 Jesus explains that a man's blindness is not due to sin. Jesus tells His listeners in John 11:4 that Lazarus' illness "is not to end in death, but for the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified by it.” We live in a fallen world, and with each generation our flesh is farther from Eden, and more cursed with sin... illness happens. That's not my point...

The teaching in Exodus 15 shows a direct correlation between our actions and God's.

Some sexually transmitted diseases are quite obvious results of rampant sin. And yet it's easier to run to the doctor for the Rx than to fall before Jehovah rapha and change our behaviors.

Jehovah rapha's blessing is very real to me, a deterrent to sin in my life in a healthy way. My mother struggled with mental illness and God has used that as a safeguard in my life. When I start to feel oppressed, I do run to my Jehovah rapha, and ask Him to cleanse me again., to heal me. I lean in. My mother's struggle - I can learn from it - a blessing in disguise. Diabetes is a blessing in disguise in a similar way: I eat differently than I would otherwise because I fear the illness and its complications.

Am I guaranteed that if I follow Christ I will not have physical diseases like diabetes, or mental diseases - physiological malfunctions in the brain? No. But I can do everything in my power to eat properly, exercise and rest to avoid diabetic complications. And I can do the same, and more, to safeguard against compromising my mental wholeness.

Action and consequence. Simple, really. And yet we want to take a pill, have a surgery, figure out a way to not have to exercise self discipline and yet be healthy. We want the easy way out, and we want to be in control.

I don't think it works that way.

Grace

Yesterday I read a book. Cover to cover. Start to finish. Grace by Richard Paul Evans. I love a light read now and then, and well...I must admit a fondness for the title.

Sweet story. A look inside the adolescent male mind as the main character, Eric, experiences a relationship with a young female for the first time. I won't tell you the story line, but will tell you that the style is simple - an easy holiday read. But the plot? Nothing simple, nothing easy. It tore my heart out.

Do I recommend the book? Yes, but with the caveat that it becomes a heart rending read about a very difficult topic. In my opinion, it is difficult to marry a light holiday read with a real life issue of this magnitude. It sort of left me stunned...not knowing what had hit, and then it was over. Although it is fiction, the author is doing something about the issue in real time and at his very real expense...a noble and worthy effort.

My jury is out. Has anyone else read it?

The beginning of a dream fulfilled

I am so excited I can hardly stand it. I am going to begin the courses for my Master's Degree!

For decades I have known that I wanted to get formal Bible School training, but the time and the finances were never right. Recently I went to Elmbrook Church's Christian Study Center website and began to poke around. Today I talked to Dave Seemuth, and it appears that this degree is a perfect fit. I am going to register to get a Master of Arts in Christian Studies, and begin in January with the New Testament Survey class. Honestly, I am SO EXCITED that I want it to start tomorrow.

I'll take a break from teaching for this first semester, to pace myself and to have time to study for this four credit class. The fully accredited degree will be through Trinity Divinity School in Deerfield, IL, but I can take every class at Elmbrook church which is 5 minutes from my work. 42 credits total.

Issues:
Time: I study a lot now. I think it may be a wash.
Money: God has graciously provided through a raise at work. While there are a million other uses for money, this is a good one. Each credit at Elmbrook is $265, while the same class at the seminary is over $600 per credit hour. Such a blessing to have the resource of that church right here.
Home: My husband is all for it, as he knows that study is what fuels me.
Laptop: My work ordered me a brand new lap top today (mine is slow and dying a very colorful death...the screen is swirly pink much of the time...) and it will be my personal as well as my work laptop. It is FAST FAST FAST.
Logos Bible Software: All paid for (did the six months free financing) and I have learned how to really use some of it's features...this will be a big time saver as well as a space saver.

I am feeling total peace about signing up. And SO excited. We went to Elmbrook tonight to look at the text books in the book store, but I can order them at a substantial discount through Amazon.

Woo hoo. I just can't wait!

King David

I'm not doing so well on blogging about the Advent study. At the moment I'm juggling two studies: Advent and the Names of God, and while I'm LOVING it and almost keeping up, the time to blog has been usurped. But here I am for a quickie before bed.

Today I was reading about David, the shepherd boy, the slayer of Goliath, the adulterer and murderer, and the man after God's own heart. What a character! One of the assigned verses was this one:

1 Ch 28:9 “As for you, my son Solomon, know the God of your father, and serve Him with a whole heart and a willing mind; for the Lord searches all hearts, and understands every intent of the thoughts. If you seek Him, He will let you find Him; but if you forsake Him, He will reject you forever.

How blessed for David to be able to tell his son to "know the God of your father." We can't fool our kids! I want our children to know, without a doubt, Who is the God of their mother. (and father) And not only who He is, but I too want them to know Him. That is the most important legacy there is.

Whole heart and willing mind. Willing mind. Are we willing to do what He tells us?

For the Lord searches all hearts, and understands every intent of the thoughts. This phrase gives me great comfort as well as reason to pause. The comfort is that unlike people, God always understands me and my intentions. When I'm trying, successfully or not, to do His will or carry out His best plan, He knows it. When I totally blow something, He knows that that was not my intention, and He understands my original intent. That is comforting. HOWEVER, I can't fool Him. I can fool a lot of people, but I can't fool God with any false religiosity...He searches my heart and knows my intent. Give it up, Grace.

If you seek Him, He will let you find Him. Wonderful comfort. Warm fuzzies.
If you forsake Him He will reject you forever. No sugar coating here.

Life is all about choices. The Bible is all about choices. Choose God and choose the path of blessing. Choose other than God and choose the path of curses. It's simple.

Simple though the choices be, I find it reassuring that God so used David in spite of himself. Gives us all hope, doesn't it?

Purse Addiction

A friend sent me this card and it cracks me up.
Um...have I mentioned a penchant for classy bags?

Savoring Sunday

Yes, Sunday should have been blogged BEFORE Monday... sorry.
After church I was blue. Mainly tired, but blue. The sun was bright, so I decided to just snug in a sun puddle and read and nap the afternoon away. It's been a rough week, so that seemed a good plan.

I brought the "Queen Chair" in to our bedroom to the wall of south facing windows that overlook a garden path area and the woods beyond (an amazing view to which to awaken) . It's a slingback folding chair that I used to take camping; it reclines at just the right angle, has a perfect pillow...it fits me just right. Somewhere along the way my buddies named it the Queen chair as they'd see me relaxing in style at the campfire. Ha.

So as I sat basking in the sun and pretending to read, I saw a few birds swooping about. Since I have not baked more seed for the feeders, I thought I should at least clean out the bird bath. I went out and scrubbed it, hosed it and filled it. Having spent a good chunk of Saturday pulling out annuals and putting away garden decor, the bird bath was all that called me on Sunday. Back to the queen chair.

What happened next can only be described as a God given pocket of joy. Over a dozen birds arrived. A couple robins, a couple woodpeckers, one ruby red cardinal, and a mixture of sparrows: some brown, some with reddish heads and chests, and some with blue. The bird world must be thirsty because my little bird bath was THE place to be. For a good 40 minutes I rested while being mesmerized by the shenanigans of my feathered friends. The sparrows had the most fun: they hopped right in, fluffing their feathers and taking full baths. In 5 years of owning this birdbath (my mother loved it so...I had to keep it when I cleaned out her home) I have occasionally seen a bird take a sip. Yesterday it was a veritable bird spa.

The whole experience energized me, and I ended up washing the bedroom windows inside and out, and also the master bath window. I hung three little beaded snowflakes in the bathroom window where they will catch the light all winter. Tiny things, really, but part of my refreshment. The tiny little details in a room bring me such pleasure. Today, Monday, I've literally been "lifted" by seeing those sparkling clean windows with tiny beaded ornaments. Details. Pockets of Joy.

Thank you Father for lifting my spirits. Thank you for health, for relative wealth, for a home, for the gift of time. I am so blessed. Even on a bluish day.

Marvelous Monday

Today is delicious.

Perhaps because I’ve had fewer days off recently, I am increasingly appreciative when I have a whole day to putter.

It began slow. As I contemplated getting out of bed, I wondered if I’d get anything done at all today. I realize that the stress of last week is weighing on me a bit, so I took it slow – because I could. I gave myself a break. A cup of Nescafe began to wake me as I threw in a load of wash. I try to work on my Bible studies first thing, so I set up at the dining room table.

And that is when the magic began. I would read and write a bit, and then do a chore or two. When I needed to sit, I did…more studying and pondering the amazing names of God. This is now my preferred pace rather than a list: whatever gets done gets done. And wow…the day just stretched on and on. That is the definition of a delicious day: the hours stretch out as I putter.

It is SO warm out, (72!) so washing windows became a priority. The living room, kitchen and half bath are done, inside and out. I moved a mulch pile and redug the earth to balance the bird bath…little garden putters that I see out the bedroom window. The winter is long, and I will appreciate having taken the time to add beauty to the gardens. The wash is done and even put away. Meals are sort of planned, papers are recycled, items picked up and put away…all at a snail’s pace while sipping coffee and studying for 20 minute breaks in between. Oh, there's plenty left to do - but it's been a good days work.

Days like today need to be savored and recorded. The blessings of a warm fall day, a lovely home (with a zillion windows) and time in silence to think and ponder. No music, no tv, no phone…just me and God and His word and our home. Perfection.

Advent

Our SAMBS group (Saturday AM Bible Study) (Sassy lambs) began our new study, Preparing My Heart for Advent yesterday, for the second consecutive year. While it doesn't seem possible that we should be preparing for Advent, it is so very lovely to begin the journey in the relatively stress free month of November.

My plan is to share some of the Advent journey via blog.

Day Two today. The assignment is to read Luke 1 through 2:40, and write questions. Who, what, why, how, where. The purpose? To slow down and study. Savor. Savor His word and His company.

They were both righteous in the sight of God, walking blamelessly in all the commandments and requirements of the Lord. But they had no child, because Elizbeth was barren, and they were both advanced in years. Luke 1:6-7

Righteousness does not guarantee perfect circumstance. Righteousness does not preclude longing. Longing does not preclude living within God's will.

Sometimes the wait is long, even when the longing is God given. They were both advanced in years.

Tears fill my eyes as I highlight the angel's message:

Do not be afraid...your petition has been heard...You will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice... Luke 1:13-14.

My heart is full from just these few verses. Live righteously in spite of the longings. Keep praying. Live expectantly. Keep hope. God hears.
Amen!

Starbucks

Words and Coffee...a winning combination.
Here are some wall murals I've found at Starbucks:

Signs of the Times

I do love words, so I stop and take pictures of great signs. Enjoy.

At a local hospital:

At a restaurant in Lacrosse:

In Kenosha:

At a shop in Genessee:

Mod Podge

Mixed media art intrigues me. That's about as far as it has gotten...the intrigue. Actually, I have made a few cards this fall, using some ribbon, some stickers, sewing a few seed beads on... they turned out well, and I enjoyed the minorly artistic endeavor.

Recently Emily, our college sophomore, sent me this card, proudly sharing that it is made of almost all recycled materials. I'm impressed. The card itself is made from a grocery bag, and the leaves on the tree are individually cut from colorful magazine ads...she herself called it a major bit of "study procrastination." Works of art do take time you know!

The glitter is held in place by...you guessed it...Mod Podge.


I remember Mod Podge from junior high. My friend Karla and I would decoupage pictures onto small wooden plaques. Do you remember that fad? Who knew that Mod Podge still existed?

Today I bought two jars - one plain matte and one in hologram gold glitter. (we didn't have that in junior high!!) Tonight, while watching an old movie, I cut up a magazine to create two cards: photo collages of autumn flowers, pumpkins, and gourds, all compliments of Better Homes & Gardens. Both are glittered Mod Podge style, and I'm feeling quite accomplished...

At Borders Bookstore earlier I was perusing magazines on mixed media art. It's simply amazing what people think to do. One article detailed the process one artist goes through starting with a photocopy of an old family photo. She adds layers of paints, pencil, fabrics, tulle, blush, crayon, feathers, whatever...until there is a work of collage art rather than the photo. Such creativity. I do, however, wonder who might buy this type of art. With the time involved I can certainly understand the phrase, "starving artist." I've written before about "The Artful Blogger" magazine which touts some fabulous pages from artist's blogs. A whole blog world is out there, an online gallery. Is mixed media art relatively new? Crazy quilts preceded it - were there other forms of mixed media?

Creativity is good for my spirits, and I hope that the card recipients feel special for having received a one of a kind message from me. Recycled contents. That's good too. Rather than buy alphabet stickers I can cut and paste podge. The possibilities are endless!

Tinkerbell

Our 16 year old was one of the birthday girls at a shared "Sweet 16" party tonight. The party was held at her friend's house, so we supplied the cake and the pizza. Since the theme was Disney Characters, we chose a cake full of Disney Princesses.

Our Anna dressed as Tinkerbell. Imagine my surprise when Anna gave me my list this morning. She asked me to pick up: 1. Cake ( preordered) 2. Pantyhose 3. Wings (!!!) and 4. a gift card for her friend.

Happily, my local Walgreens stocks wings this time of year. Who knew?

Good News

The CT yesterday showed an "atypical hemangioma" in my liver. In English, that is a clump of blood vessels. I will need to go back in 6 months for another scan to see if it is "stable," but otherwise there is nothing to worry about.

Thank you Lord.

Annie Freeman's Fabulous Traveling Funeral

What a gift to have a fabulous read on such a stressful day. As I awaited my CT (1.5 hours of wait) and then later at the hospital while my father had surgery (he is recovering well) I was thoroughly engrossed in this wonderful novel by Kris Radish.

The story line is that an extraordinary woman dies and four of her closest friends are thrown together to spread her ashes far and wide on a trip that is completely preplanned by the deceased.

I have two notecards of quotes I loved...I always read with a pencil in hand, but since this book is from the library I wrote on notecards rather than in the margins!

A quote that seemed so appropriate for today is on page 148: "Annie's death on top of what happened with your mom, that's a lot.""What's a lot though?""Whatever you can or can't handle I suppose....Everyone has a different level of 'what's a lot.'"

Today was a lot: a lot of emotionally charged activity. But God got me through it. So many friends texted and emailed to say they were praying for me, and that's what got me through.

That and an amazing read.

CT Scan

Today I had an abdominal CT scan. I have no results yet.

This is what it looks like

First, fully gowned, they had me lay on the bed with pillows under my head and a wedge under my knees. It was very comfortable, and I was amazingly relaxed. (Thank you for the prayers!)Next they drew blood to check my kidney creatnine level. Thankfully it was well within normal range, so they could add the necessary "contrast" solution. Evidently the contrast is quite hard on the kidneys as they flush it from the system. In the same needle poke they inserted a small tube to use as an IV for the "contrast." Since I have terribly small veins, it took two pokes for the IV, but that is pretty good for me! (Needless to say I dread getting blood work...)

I layed on the bed, and eventually was asked to put my hands over my head. The bed moved back and forth, taking me in and out of the tube. A computerized voice told me when to breathe and when to hold my breath. Amazing.

One set of scans was taken without contrast. That took maybe 3 minutes total. The tech came and added the contrast through the IV in my arm, telling me I would feel warmth in my throat, and then throughout my abdomen. And wow - she was right on. I had no sooner said my throat felt warm than my groin was hot and everything else in between. The next set of scans was quickly taken, and minutes later I was sitting up and feeling normal. The flush of heat was over as fast as it came on.

And that was that. They are looking at the mass they found in my liver which was measured at 7 cm by 5cm by 3 cm. That's BIG! I've googled "liver mass" and read all kinds of options...I should know the results of my scan by tomorrow. Hopefully is it a hemangioma - a cluster of blood vessels. I'm pretty sure that would require no further action.

I do not know what the future holds, but I know Him who holds my future! I'm exhausted, but calm and ready for a good night's sleep.

The Silver Linings

I stayed in Wausau, WI last night, having driven up at 4 pm with my boss and a favorite coworker. Had a fancy schmancy meal, and was back in my hotel room by 10 pm to drift off to sleep in an amazing bed. The toiletries were Aveda, and the coffee bags for the four cup pot were Starbucks: those are both VERY good signs in a hotel.

At the restaurant I had to order carefully. Silver lining: I'm going to lose weight and feel better. Silver lining...I must remember that silver lining.

Why? Well, about 1.5 weeks ago I began to have some pretty serious stomach pain. Right under my rib cage on the left side. Four evenings in a row. The only relief was laying down. Sometimes the pain shot through to my back like a sword going right through me.

Off to the doctor I went. Blood work. Extensive ultrasounds.

My pancreas enzymes are slightly elevated. Although my pancreas and gallbladder look ok now, my symptoms most resemble pancreatitis. I've been told this is common in 40-something women. Perhaps I threw a gallstone. Don't know. But for now, no alcohol and no fatty food. Pancreatitis is nothing to play with, and my system needs to rest.

Hmmmm. Diabetes keeps me low carb. Now I'm low fat too. And no alcohol. Not even cough syrup. Yipes.

And so, a bit of the fun was stolen from the fancy restaurant as my choices were awfully limited. I chose hot mint decaf tea, and a pasta with chicken, broccoli and broiled tomatoes. Most of the dinner left my system before bed(SIGH) , and the tea woke me a few times as well. (I drank too much because I was feeling sorry for myself as my dinner companions had drinks and wine ...)

However, and this IS a silver lining, I felt good this morning. Less bloated. Cleaner. Clearer. Six to eight weeks of this will likely make a difference!

Another silver lining: they found an abnormality in my liver. Why would that be good? Well, if it's something about which to concern myself, it's amazing that they found it now, as it likely has nothing to do with my pain -- it just showed up by accident in the ultrasounds. Now there is a CT scheduled this week. The mass is likely a hemangioma - a benign clump of blood vessels. But in order to be sure they need the CAT scan.

I'm feeling a bit sorry for myself, but trying to remember the silver linings. And I am taking more couch time than usual. Right now I'm nestled with a stack of books and a quilt...a bit of pain, but mostly just feeling the need to be still and to rest my body.

I left my current read in my boss' car. Sigh. I was wrapped in a blanket in his back seat all the way home, reading Annie Freeman's Fabulous Traveling Funeral by Kris Radish. I am LOVING it - a story about the deep friendship of women.

The silver lining of leaving it behind? I blogged instead of reading the evening away...

Is Abortion an Important Issue?

I've heard the argument that abortion should not be the most important issue affecting a person's vote.

I just found this link to the candidate's stances, and after watching it, I find it hard to deny that Barack Obama finds it to be an important issue. Note the "Planned Parenthood" banners. Note his own words on his priority in the first day of office.

This is sobering.

This is not just an artificial issue drummed up by conservatives. This is obviously an important issue to both sides.

Watch this. Listen to the candidates' own words. Shut your eyes to the photos if you think they are too religious...just listen to the candidates' own words.

Trust

Our Thursday night study is studying Lord I Want to Know You by Kay Arthur. In Day 11's homework I found reference to this verse:

Psalm 9:10
And those who know Thy name will put their trust in Thee; For Thou, O LORD, hast not forsaken those who seek Thee.

What perfect encouragement to continue to seek to know Him more - to know Him by name. The word "trust" in the Hebrew is Strong's number 982: Batach. The Lexical Aid includes: "...to attach oneself, to trust, to confide in, feel safe, be confident, secure, to be careless; ...associated with firmness or solidity...The word expresses the sense of well being which results from knowing that the rug won't be pulled out from under you....Confident expectation...We can truly relax when we know WHO is in control."

Trust. I will admit that I struggle with trust. In the most tender areas of my life I must wonder if God really does have my best in mind...although intellectually I know He does. But I don't feel it. Trust. As I think on it, I struggle with His Sovereign will versus my poor choices. Trust.

In the simple things...like the economy or terrorism...those things don't cause me any lost sleep...I have full confidence that He is in control. And I have none. There's comfort in that!

Trust. I want to trust Him, confide in Him, feel safe with Him... Trust.

The Journey

This photo is of a path near our old home...a path Boomer and I walked hundreds of times. It reminds me of life's journey. While there is plenty of beauty and wonder in the here and now, we have positively no idea of what might be around the corner...
In the photo, for instance, the path leads to a man made lake - a treasure in the suburbs, and a walker's delight.

The G List - part 1

Some days I need to keep counting my blessings. And so a new category of blogs today: The G List. Good, Great, Grin-producing, Godly, Giggle-inducing, Gorgeous, Glamorous, ...and all other positive G words combined...

This week end's list:

-Meeting our 16 year old's first boyfriend. He looks so young and so innocent. (Thank God!)

-Buying cranberries at the grocery store, our 19 year old, Em, asked if they were for the Thanksgiving sauce. Yes was my reply. She lamented that she wished she could stay home and make the sauce with me. It's amazing how sentimental she has become.

-Em walking through the house on Friday evening, studying the details, and then settling into the familiar overstuffed leather couch. "I'm so glad you decorate for the seasons, " she said. (who IS this girl??)

-The new zinnias bravely pushing out petals in late October. They are healthy and happy and five feet tall. Each morning I look out the window to see if they made it through another chilly night. So far so good.

-My October Starbucks drink:

Grande
Nonfat
Pumpkin Spice Latte
2 pumps pumpkin
2 pumps sugar free vanilla
one shot of protein
with whip

Substituting half sugar free flavoring doesn't distract too much from the taste, and halves the grams of sugar. Although it's a mouthful to place my order, the result is worth it. Honestly, all is well with the world during those first few sips.

-Finding the New York Times Sunday edition on our steps for the first time. I ordered just the Sunday paper for 12 weeks at an intro price of $3.60 a week. (It's $5 at Starbucks) And during the 12 weeks I have access to the NYT crossword puzzles online, and the total archive of past puzzles are there to down load and/or print. Sunday afternoons are becoming cherished couch time with that silly NYT crossword. It's SO addicting.

-Singing in the quintet on Sunday. What a gift it is to make such music.

-Sitting in my spot on a rare Monday morning off work. Such simple luxury.

-Playing Scrabble with our 12 year old on Saturday night. We played for an hour and a half, and he did GREAT. I helped him a bit with strategy, and assisted when he was stuck, but overall he kept pace and made some awesome plays all on his own. I know that he has watched me and his 21 year old brother play, and this was a sort of rite of passage. It filled me up as well.

-Cooking five meals today. It feels right to prioritize that, and while I'm not sure I actually *grinned,* I am grinning now when I open my fridge and see them there. It takes the pressure off the week.

-Reading an article on writing memoirs in an Oprah magazine read at the hair salon. The article was so good, and the accompanying pages of memoirs so tempting, that I *borrowed* the magazine to finish it tonight. (August 2008 edition) Yes, I do plan to sneak it back into the salon. (although they'll likely be tossing August soon anyhow, no?)

-Sleeping under the quilt with 40 degree air coming in the window. Autumn. Mmmmmm.

Simple Sacrifice

To You I shall offer a sacrifice of thanksgiving,
And call upon the name of the Lord. Psalm 116:17

This morning in my quiet moments I read Psalm 116. The word "sacrifice" carries such difficult and unpleasant connotations, but here the sacrifice is thanksgiving combined with calling on the name of the Lord. Is that not a commentary on man? Just thanking God requires sacrifice: the sacrifice of time, of thought, of intention, and of giving up the urge to complain and whine.

I was reminded of another verse in Hebrews:

Through Him then, let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name. Hebrews 13:15

Again, the sacrifice is so simple: the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name. The author commands it *continually.*

Continually? Is this true of me? Is this true of you?

Let's work on sacrifice today. Let's continually offer up thanks to God rather than offering grumbling to our fellow man. Could we do it for a whole day?