Friday, November 07, 2008
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
A Prayer
Someone sent this to me this morning:
Franciscan Prayer
May God bless you with discomfort at easy answers, half-truths, and superficial relationships so that you may live deep within your heart.
May God bless you with anger at injustice, oppression, and exploitation of people, so that you may work for justice, freedom, and peace.
May God bless you with tears to shed for those who suffer pain, rejection, hunger, and war so that you may reach out your hand to comfort them and to turn their pain into joy.
And may God bless you with enough foolishness to believe that you can make a difference in the world, so that you can do what others claim cannot be done to bring justice and kindness to all our children and the poor.
Amen.
Franciscan Prayer
May God bless you with discomfort at easy answers, half-truths, and superficial relationships so that you may live deep within your heart.
May God bless you with anger at injustice, oppression, and exploitation of people, so that you may work for justice, freedom, and peace.
May God bless you with tears to shed for those who suffer pain, rejection, hunger, and war so that you may reach out your hand to comfort them and to turn their pain into joy.
And may God bless you with enough foolishness to believe that you can make a difference in the world, so that you can do what others claim cannot be done to bring justice and kindness to all our children and the poor.
Amen.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Ringing true
Doesn't this quote seem to ring true?
"The average age of the world’s greatest civilizations has been 200 years. These nations have progressed through this sequence: ‘From bondage to spiritual faith; From spiritual faith to great courage; From courage to liberty; From liberty to abundance; From abundance to selfishness; From selfishness to apathy; From apathy to dependence; From dependence back into bondage.'”
-Alexander Tyler
"The average age of the world’s greatest civilizations has been 200 years. These nations have progressed through this sequence: ‘From bondage to spiritual faith; From spiritual faith to great courage; From courage to liberty; From liberty to abundance; From abundance to selfishness; From selfishness to apathy; From apathy to dependence; From dependence back into bondage.'”
-Alexander Tyler
WRITE IN!!!
Okay, I know I'm not the only one who is looking at our current choices for President -- at least the ones the Republicans and Democrats nominated -- and are asking the question, "How about neither?"
Well, did you know you can WRITE IN a candidate?
Check out this Wikipedia Article and get yourself edumacated! haha
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Write-in_vote#President
and how about that Mike Huckabee?
http://www.onlyhuckabee.com/
Check it.
Well, did you know you can WRITE IN a candidate?
Check out this Wikipedia Article and get yourself edumacated! haha
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Write-in_vote#President
and how about that Mike Huckabee?
http://www.onlyhuckabee.com/
Check it.
Not the same path
I'm different than I was 10 years ago. I guess most people can say that. I wonder how it is that some couples get married when they're in their early 20's and stay together. My parents did it. Well, my mom was 21 and my dad was 26, but still.
When I think back to how I handled myself in certain situations, I cringe. My self now hurts for my self then. I was so willing to make other people happy at my expense. This played out in certain relationships that went on way too long. I guess most would say that I totally dodge a bullet and the Lord certainly protected me.
A situation came up recently where I could have easily gone back down that path I was familiar with, but I'm stronger now. I feel like I actually have learned something in 10 years. I won't allow myself to compromise my happiness, emotional well being for someone else's.
To most of you this is probably a bit cryptic. And that's okay. There are those of you who know exactly what I'm writing about and hopefully you will be encouraged and proud of me! It's progress, y'all.
The Lord has healed some hurts from the past and I know there's good stuff in store.
When I think back to how I handled myself in certain situations, I cringe. My self now hurts for my self then. I was so willing to make other people happy at my expense. This played out in certain relationships that went on way too long. I guess most would say that I totally dodge a bullet and the Lord certainly protected me.
A situation came up recently where I could have easily gone back down that path I was familiar with, but I'm stronger now. I feel like I actually have learned something in 10 years. I won't allow myself to compromise my happiness, emotional well being for someone else's.
To most of you this is probably a bit cryptic. And that's okay. There are those of you who know exactly what I'm writing about and hopefully you will be encouraged and proud of me! It's progress, y'all.
The Lord has healed some hurts from the past and I know there's good stuff in store.
Monday, October 13, 2008
Retreating
This past weekend, a group of my friends and me escaped to Boone, NC for some time together. The point of the weekend was to share our stories. Our stories all have a common theme: God has been working in our lives. I knew this weekend would be an important one for our group. I knew that we'd grow closer by know where others came from, what struggles they've faced, disappointments they've had, broken relationships they've come out of, etc. But it was really wonderful to hear how the Lord has been working in each of their lives from childhood (in most cases). A lot of us had knowledge of God or had been exposed to God, the church, etc, but it hasn't been until our adult lives that we have gained a real understanding of Him. And even though we've shared parts of our stories with each other before, I think there's been a shift, a trust that's been gained. I hope to see the fruit of this down the road.
In addition to sharing some pretty deep stuff, we also laughed a lot and just enjoyed the beautiful surroundings. Here's a few shots from Boone!
In addition to sharing some pretty deep stuff, we also laughed a lot and just enjoyed the beautiful surroundings. Here's a few shots from Boone!
Wednesday, October 08, 2008
not my imageMonday, October 06, 2008
Questions
So I saw a mutual friend posted these questions that John Wesley asked himself every day. They are questions definitely worth asking:
1. Am I consciously or unconsciously creating the impression that I am better than I really am? In other words, am I a hypocrite?
2. Am I honest in all my acts and words, or do I exaggerate?
3. Do I confidentially pass on to another what was told to me in confidence?
4. Can I be trusted?
5. Am I a slave to dress, friends, work or habits?
6. Am I self-conscious, self-pitying or self-justifying?
7. Did the Bible live in me today?
8. Do I give it time to speak to me every day?
9. Am I enjoying prayer?
10. When did I last speak to someone else about my faith?
11. Do I pray about the money I spend?
12. Do I go to bed on time and get up on time?
13. Do I disobey God in anything?
14. Do I insist upon doing something about which my conscience is uneasy?
15. Am I defeated in any part of my life?
16. Am I jealous, impure, critical, irritable, touchy or distrustful?
17. How do I spend my spare time?
18. Am I proud?
19. Do I thank God that I am not like other people?
20. Is there anyone whom I fear, dislike, disown, criticize, hold a resentment toward or disregard?
21. Do I grumble or complain constantly?
22. Is Christ real to me?
1. Am I consciously or unconsciously creating the impression that I am better than I really am? In other words, am I a hypocrite?
2. Am I honest in all my acts and words, or do I exaggerate?
3. Do I confidentially pass on to another what was told to me in confidence?
4. Can I be trusted?
5. Am I a slave to dress, friends, work or habits?
6. Am I self-conscious, self-pitying or self-justifying?
7. Did the Bible live in me today?
8. Do I give it time to speak to me every day?
9. Am I enjoying prayer?
10. When did I last speak to someone else about my faith?
11. Do I pray about the money I spend?
12. Do I go to bed on time and get up on time?
13. Do I disobey God in anything?
14. Do I insist upon doing something about which my conscience is uneasy?
15. Am I defeated in any part of my life?
16. Am I jealous, impure, critical, irritable, touchy or distrustful?
17. How do I spend my spare time?
18. Am I proud?
19. Do I thank God that I am not like other people?
20. Is there anyone whom I fear, dislike, disown, criticize, hold a resentment toward or disregard?
21. Do I grumble or complain constantly?
22. Is Christ real to me?
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
God's Love - it's a jealous kind of love
here's what I e-mailed my small group this morning. thought it was worth posting here too!
*****
So interestingly enough, at Charlotte One last night, a lot of Stuart Hall's message had to do with God's "jealousy" of us. He even brought in the story of Hosea and Gomer. Coincidence? I think not! (For those of you not at small group on Monday, we had a lot of discussion around how the Holy Spirit "envies intensely" when we give anything in our lives precidence over the Lord. I'm telling you guys, this is the stuff like that makes me keenly aware of the realness of our God. Perhaps this is a message that really needed to be heard a couple of times!
And then that verse from James 4 keeps coming back to me "but He gives MORE grace." (emphasis added by me)
We sang this song last night Oh How He Loves Us which was written by John Mark McMillan. This guy writes some amazing lyrics. Here are the verses.
NOTE THE FIRST LINE!!! Crazy how it went with small group....and then the message last night. Crazy cool in my opinion.
He is jealous for me,
Loves like a hurricane, I am a tree,
Bending beneath the weight of his wind and mercy.
When all of a sudden,
I am unaware of these afflictions eclipsed by glory,
And I realise just how beautiful You are,
And how great Your affections are for me.
Pre-Chorus:
And oh, how He loves us so,
Oh how He loves us,
How He loves us so
Chorus 1:
Yeah, He loves us,
Oh how He loves us,
Oh how He loves us,
Oh how He loves.
Yeah, He loves us,
Oh how He loves us,
Oh how He loves us,
Oh how He loves.
Verse 2:
We are His portion and He is our prize,
Drawn to redemption by the grace in His eyes,
If grace is an ocean, we're all sinking.
So Heaven meets earth like a sloppy wet kiss,
And the heart turns violently inside of my chest,
I don't have time to maintain these regrets,
When I think about, the way…
Verse 3:
Well, I thought about You the day Stephen* died,
And You met me between my breaking.
I know that I still love You, God, despite the agony.
...They want to tell me You're cruel,
But if Stephen could sing, he'd say it's not true, cause.. (back to chorus).
*By the way, Stephen was a follower of Christ, an early Christian, who was stoned for his faith.
*****
So interestingly enough, at Charlotte One last night, a lot of Stuart Hall's message had to do with God's "jealousy" of us. He even brought in the story of Hosea and Gomer. Coincidence? I think not! (For those of you not at small group on Monday, we had a lot of discussion around how the Holy Spirit "envies intensely" when we give anything in our lives precidence over the Lord. I'm telling you guys, this is the stuff like that makes me keenly aware of the realness of our God. Perhaps this is a message that really needed to be heard a couple of times!
And then that verse from James 4 keeps coming back to me "but He gives MORE grace." (emphasis added by me)
We sang this song last night Oh How He Loves Us which was written by John Mark McMillan. This guy writes some amazing lyrics. Here are the verses.
NOTE THE FIRST LINE!!! Crazy how it went with small group....and then the message last night. Crazy cool in my opinion.
He is jealous for me,
Loves like a hurricane, I am a tree,
Bending beneath the weight of his wind and mercy.
When all of a sudden,
I am unaware of these afflictions eclipsed by glory,
And I realise just how beautiful You are,
And how great Your affections are for me.
Pre-Chorus:
And oh, how He loves us so,
Oh how He loves us,
How He loves us so
Chorus 1:
Yeah, He loves us,
Oh how He loves us,
Oh how He loves us,
Oh how He loves.
Yeah, He loves us,
Oh how He loves us,
Oh how He loves us,
Oh how He loves.
Verse 2:
We are His portion and He is our prize,
Drawn to redemption by the grace in His eyes,
If grace is an ocean, we're all sinking.
So Heaven meets earth like a sloppy wet kiss,
And the heart turns violently inside of my chest,
I don't have time to maintain these regrets,
When I think about, the way…
Verse 3:
Well, I thought about You the day Stephen* died,
And You met me between my breaking.
I know that I still love You, God, despite the agony.
...They want to tell me You're cruel,
But if Stephen could sing, he'd say it's not true, cause.. (back to chorus).
*By the way, Stephen was a follower of Christ, an early Christian, who was stoned for his faith.
Monday, September 22, 2008
Thoughts from Sunday
So Bruce was talking about giving yesterday -- not just about money, but of your time, of yourself. And the motive not being about what it can get you, but more of giving as an outpouring of the passion that God has instilled in you.
A couple of things I jotted down were:
"Until your heart is captivated by gratitude, you will wait." You will just sit around and let life pass you by until you tap into that passion that resides within and it motivates you to act.
"What would be too much?" How much giving is too much? I'll let you ponder that one.
"You've got to get your passion." "You've got to know who you are."
Amen and amen. I'm still processing, but this resonates with me. I'm on the path to discovery...
A couple of things I jotted down were:
"Until your heart is captivated by gratitude, you will wait." You will just sit around and let life pass you by until you tap into that passion that resides within and it motivates you to act.
"What would be too much?" How much giving is too much? I'll let you ponder that one.
"You've got to get your passion." "You've got to know who you are."
Amen and amen. I'm still processing, but this resonates with me. I'm on the path to discovery...
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Vid
Okay, I'm sure you've heard that Travis Barker was in a plane crash. He is an AMAZING drummer. Here....you can see for yourself.
Friday, September 19, 2008
Thirty two
My birthday week got off to a great start by racing in the SheRox Triathlon up at Latta Plantation early on Sunday morning (and I mean early). I should blog about my race experience in another entry because I have a lot of thoughts about it, but right now I'm basking in my being thirty-two years old. I am no longer just barely in the thirties; I'm solidly in my thirties. Any age with a two at the end sounds so much more substantial.
I'm 32 and I'm just fine. 31 started off with a lot of turmoil - a relationship ending, but quickly started to get better as I got involved with my wonderful small group! I found some new friends as well as continuing to invest in my tried and true friends. I found peace and hope in the midst of some hard family stuff. In April, I launched into training for the triathlon which helped me get to a level of fitness that made me feel so good about myself and what my body could do. I deepened friendships through long bike rides and runs and trips to the pool. I gained confidence. So, thirty-one was good to me. I can only hope thirty-two will be even better!
Yesterday was a great day. I received so many birthday wishes (thanks to Facebook) and received phone calls, got taken out to both lunch AND dinner and I smiled...a lot.
From the previous post, I'm still confident that "The Lord will perfect that which concerns me..."
I'm 32 and I'm just fine. 31 started off with a lot of turmoil - a relationship ending, but quickly started to get better as I got involved with my wonderful small group! I found some new friends as well as continuing to invest in my tried and true friends. I found peace and hope in the midst of some hard family stuff. In April, I launched into training for the triathlon which helped me get to a level of fitness that made me feel so good about myself and what my body could do. I deepened friendships through long bike rides and runs and trips to the pool. I gained confidence. So, thirty-one was good to me. I can only hope thirty-two will be even better!
Yesterday was a great day. I received so many birthday wishes (thanks to Facebook) and received phone calls, got taken out to both lunch AND dinner and I smiled...a lot.
From the previous post, I'm still confident that "The Lord will perfect that which concerns me..."
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Meditation
It's less than 24 hours until race time.
This is what I read this morning and what I'm meditating on:
"The Lord will perfect that which concerns me; Your mercy and lovingkindness, O Lord, endure forever -- forsake not the works of Your own hands." Psalm 138:8
Friday, August 22, 2008
Seriously?
Okay, I must hurry and post this entry because I need to be at work early this morning, but I had to get this out there into cyberspace.
Racewalker (not my image)
Since when did Race Walking become an Olympic event? Last night, I was watching the Olympics with some friends and one moment we're watching the USA drop batons (both men and women) and the next moment, we're watching some women walk really, really fast.
I guess the one exciting thing that happens during this event is that if you even look like you're about to jog or both feet come off the pavement just a little bit, some "referee" jumps in your face out of nowhere and flashes a yellow card! I don't know if they say anything or just flash the card, but it's the ONLY entertaining or interesting thing about this event. Oh wait, it is kind of interesting how it seems that the legs of the walkers almost seem doublejointed. And Scott asked the question, "why must they wear the same outfits as marathoners?" Is it really necessary to wear the little bitty bottoms and the sports bra to walk really fast?
The winner, who walked REALLY fast (of course), looked like she was in a great deal of pain as she entered the Bird's Nest last night. And people were cheering awfully loud for her. I repeat, they were cheering REALLY loud for a race walker. Odd, I tell you -- very, very odd. So she finished and then all the other walkers.....you guessed it.....walked really fast to the finish line. It doesn't even SOUND right. UGH.
Okay, enough about the racewalkers.....I need to go get ready for work. And, by the way, I'm going to walk very fast everywhere I go today.
Racewalker (not my image)Since when did Race Walking become an Olympic event? Last night, I was watching the Olympics with some friends and one moment we're watching the USA drop batons (both men and women) and the next moment, we're watching some women walk really, really fast.
I guess the one exciting thing that happens during this event is that if you even look like you're about to jog or both feet come off the pavement just a little bit, some "referee" jumps in your face out of nowhere and flashes a yellow card! I don't know if they say anything or just flash the card, but it's the ONLY entertaining or interesting thing about this event. Oh wait, it is kind of interesting how it seems that the legs of the walkers almost seem doublejointed. And Scott asked the question, "why must they wear the same outfits as marathoners?" Is it really necessary to wear the little bitty bottoms and the sports bra to walk really fast?
The winner, who walked REALLY fast (of course), looked like she was in a great deal of pain as she entered the Bird's Nest last night. And people were cheering awfully loud for her. I repeat, they were cheering REALLY loud for a race walker. Odd, I tell you -- very, very odd. So she finished and then all the other walkers.....you guessed it.....walked really fast to the finish line. It doesn't even SOUND right. UGH.
Okay, enough about the racewalkers.....I need to go get ready for work. And, by the way, I'm going to walk very fast everywhere I go today.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Guess I should post...
Lots of things swirling around this morning:
1. I had my feelings hurt (stupidly) because I wasn't included in a group September birthday celebration. It is SO dumb, but if any of you know me well, you know how I love birthday celebrations and to think that I was left out of a birthday celebration for September birthdays....
2. It's less than a month until race day for SheRox. My current thought is that I'll do fine in the bike/run portion of the race, but the swim will be where I lose time. I'm swimming after work tonight. Really.
3. I love french press coffee. It is so much richer and flavorful than drip coffeemakers. Try it.
4. Back to training: my run has improved so much. Last night, I was running pretty fast for the whole 5K. It helped to have another woman pacing right with me. She was struggling (so she says) but was too competitive to slow down. Ha!
5. Let it Go, Let it Flow has been taken to an all new level with the additional information from Joy. I obviously need to sharpen my "skills".
6. I have a lot of wonderful friends in my life. Let me be grateful for them.
7. Oh, I'm more blonde than I used to be.
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Route for a nice little run (3.33 miles)
(Just don't do it in the extreme heat like some of us did last night. YUCK.)
http://www.mapmyrun.com/route/us/nc/charlotte/460950188
OH, and
map my run is a great site for all you runners (or aspiring runners) out there!
Happy trails (or pavement)!
http://www.mapmyrun.com/route/us/nc/charlotte/460950188
OH, and
map my run is a great site for all you runners (or aspiring runners) out there!
Happy trails (or pavement)!
Friday, July 18, 2008
Alaina
Hey Alaina,
Dear friend, if you are reading this, I hope you know that you have friends (me included) that would like to hear from you -- even if it's just to know you're okay. I know a lot has happened in the last 2 years -- some fun times, some bad times...some really bad, but hopefully now it can be left in the past and that your eyes are fixed on a brighter future. We miss you. We love you. Please write soon.
Love,
Fifi
Dear friend, if you are reading this, I hope you know that you have friends (me included) that would like to hear from you -- even if it's just to know you're okay. I know a lot has happened in the last 2 years -- some fun times, some bad times...some really bad, but hopefully now it can be left in the past and that your eyes are fixed on a brighter future. We miss you. We love you. Please write soon.
Love,
Fifi
Wednesday, July 02, 2008
Green Pastures
Found this song this morning....love it.
 | Emmylou Harris, Ricky Skaggs, Dolly Parton - Green Pastures |  |
 | ||
 | Found at skreemr.com |  |
Rear wheels
So my bike has been in pieces since Saturday. "Why?" you ask. Well, I'm a pro at getting the front wheel on and off, but the back wheel -- not so much. I walk by it every day and it frustrates me that I haven't been able to do this myself. I even tried again Monday morning, but no dice; I end up with grease all over my body every time (both legs, arms and hands).
I am going to ask my friend Michelle to help me tonight. She's coming over to help me pack (the big move across town is this weekend) and see if she will do it. She's a pro and it's her bike that she's letting me use for my training!
Tuesday, July 01, 2008
Weezer
I love this band.
I love this song. Enjoy!
I love this song. Enjoy!
| Weezer - Jamie (Live Acoustic B Side) | |
| | ||
| Found at skreemr.com | |
Monday, June 30, 2008
Crazy week
So this weekend felt like a total loss and one that went by way too quickly. I am moving this weekend -- just across town -- but still, it's a pain to move ANYWHERE. I hate packing. I hate even thinking about packing. UGH.
On top of moving, I am trying to get back up to speed with my tri training. I was on vacation 2 weeks ago and then last week, a couple of days were thrown off due to orientation for my new job up in Raleigh. I planned to get back into it full force this week, but due to packing and moving, I have a feeling I need to lower expectations.
For those of you who read this blog, pray that I can get packed a little at a time this week. I don't have to be out until July 8th, but I'd like to get settled in at the new place this weekend so I can just come back and clean after that.
Oh and the new job is going well. It's fun to be back at a law firm. I know it's going to be a challenge, but I'm up to it. I just pray I can do a good job and that they will be glad they hired me!
On top of moving, I am trying to get back up to speed with my tri training. I was on vacation 2 weeks ago and then last week, a couple of days were thrown off due to orientation for my new job up in Raleigh. I planned to get back into it full force this week, but due to packing and moving, I have a feeling I need to lower expectations.
For those of you who read this blog, pray that I can get packed a little at a time this week. I don't have to be out until July 8th, but I'd like to get settled in at the new place this weekend so I can just come back and clean after that.
Oh and the new job is going well. It's fun to be back at a law firm. I know it's going to be a challenge, but I'm up to it. I just pray I can do a good job and that they will be glad they hired me!
Friday, June 20, 2008
Beachness
Here are some photos from my time here on Hilton Head Island. This is our last day so I plan to take a bunch of photos today!
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Getting dropped
So most of you know that i'm training for a Triathlon Sprint in September. I'm on vacation with my friend the Finks and the Metzls in lovely Hilton Head Island for the week. It's been a challenge to maintain the level of activity and I've definitely felt a bit guilty about this.
The other day while out on a ride (because I did bring my bike with me), I stopped in a bike shop and inquired as to whether they had any group rides. The guy informed me that there are rides every Tuesday and Thursday from the shop. I missed Tuesday but showed up this evening. At first I thought it was going to be me and these two older guys, but we rode a couple miles to a park. We chit chatted a bit and then this flock of cyclists headed our way. There were easily 25 cyclists. I have never ridden in a pack this large, but I was excited to ride.
At the outset, I was hanging with the pack. I thought it was a good pace, but honestly I wanted to ride a bit harder. Oh naievete. It bites you in the ass. We turned down this one road and the pack took off! I wasn't in the far back, but this woman informed me from behind that we were getting ready to get dropped. It took a second to realize that, hmmm, I don't know where I'm riding TO and I'm not entirely sure how to get back!
I see this woman up ahead and I'm gaining on her. Because I'm friendly and I see this as an opportunity to meet new people, I ride up next to her and ask her what the pace is (assuming she has a flight deck of some sort). Well, apparently this woman had a hard time talking and riding at the same time. She loses concentration and heads off the road. I am freaking out at this point. Is she going to fall of her bike or just come to a screeching stop? Have I just put this woman in great peril by asking a stupid question? Is she going to.....?
Well, I look back and call out to ask "are you okay?" but I admit, I don't stick around to find out the answer. I knew she was fine, but I thought she would be pissed. So, I ride hard and I ride fast. I'm not sure I did the right thing, but I had no idea where I was going and I also feared getting cussed out. I realize while I'm typing this that I might, in fact, be a horrible person, but it all happened so fast.
Like I was writing before, I rode hard and fast and found some cyclist riding ahead of me and asked him where I should go. Thankfully he was nice and informed me where the pack had taken off to. I eventually caught up with a few riders and asked how to get back to the shop. This guy wearing an NC State jersey just told me to follow them. So I did follow them. At one point, I felt like they were trying to lose me. I felt like saying, "hello. did i not just tell you that I do NOT know my way around here?" I repeat, "I am NOT from HIlton Head." Jerks. Anyway, after a couple of miles we end up at a bike shop....just not THE bike shop that I started out riding from! UGH. I asked them to kindly point me in the direction of the main road and so they did and I was on my way back to the resort. And I did make it back safe and sound.
I look forward to getting back to the group rides in Charlotte. They seem a lot less dramatic and a lot more fun. Bring the fun, Charlotte. Bring the fun.
The other day while out on a ride (because I did bring my bike with me), I stopped in a bike shop and inquired as to whether they had any group rides. The guy informed me that there are rides every Tuesday and Thursday from the shop. I missed Tuesday but showed up this evening. At first I thought it was going to be me and these two older guys, but we rode a couple miles to a park. We chit chatted a bit and then this flock of cyclists headed our way. There were easily 25 cyclists. I have never ridden in a pack this large, but I was excited to ride.
At the outset, I was hanging with the pack. I thought it was a good pace, but honestly I wanted to ride a bit harder. Oh naievete. It bites you in the ass. We turned down this one road and the pack took off! I wasn't in the far back, but this woman informed me from behind that we were getting ready to get dropped. It took a second to realize that, hmmm, I don't know where I'm riding TO and I'm not entirely sure how to get back!
I see this woman up ahead and I'm gaining on her. Because I'm friendly and I see this as an opportunity to meet new people, I ride up next to her and ask her what the pace is (assuming she has a flight deck of some sort). Well, apparently this woman had a hard time talking and riding at the same time. She loses concentration and heads off the road. I am freaking out at this point. Is she going to fall of her bike or just come to a screeching stop? Have I just put this woman in great peril by asking a stupid question? Is she going to.....?
Well, I look back and call out to ask "are you okay?" but I admit, I don't stick around to find out the answer. I knew she was fine, but I thought she would be pissed. So, I ride hard and I ride fast. I'm not sure I did the right thing, but I had no idea where I was going and I also feared getting cussed out. I realize while I'm typing this that I might, in fact, be a horrible person, but it all happened so fast.
Like I was writing before, I rode hard and fast and found some cyclist riding ahead of me and asked him where I should go. Thankfully he was nice and informed me where the pack had taken off to. I eventually caught up with a few riders and asked how to get back to the shop. This guy wearing an NC State jersey just told me to follow them. So I did follow them. At one point, I felt like they were trying to lose me. I felt like saying, "hello. did i not just tell you that I do NOT know my way around here?" I repeat, "I am NOT from HIlton Head." Jerks. Anyway, after a couple of miles we end up at a bike shop....just not THE bike shop that I started out riding from! UGH. I asked them to kindly point me in the direction of the main road and so they did and I was on my way back to the resort. And I did make it back safe and sound.
I look forward to getting back to the group rides in Charlotte. They seem a lot less dramatic and a lot more fun. Bring the fun, Charlotte. Bring the fun.
Friday, June 06, 2008
UGH
So I was reading someone's blog this morning and they said how they turn to music when things in life aren't going exactly right. I find I do the same thing. Music seems to transport me out of the current disappointing moments to a place of happiness and where things seem to be all right. My friend Luke, my constant source of all musical goodness turned me on to this group, Minipop. It is sheer pop heaven. I encourage you all to listen. Here's a vid from youtube so you can have just a taste. They're bad ass -- a female drummer AND lead singer. (By the way, a flock of geese just flew overhead -- barely above the treeline and "honked" at me. What does that mean?
And it's almost 7am and I'm supposed to be in the shower getting ready for work, but I'm sitting on my front stoop blogging. Go figure. Oh and it's going to be a hot one today, Charlotte folks. Bloody hot.
And it's almost 7am and I'm supposed to be in the shower getting ready for work, but I'm sitting on my front stoop blogging. Go figure. Oh and it's going to be a hot one today, Charlotte folks. Bloody hot.
Saturday, May 24, 2008
A "funny" thing happened in the movie last night...
If you've ever wondered if you could get yelled at for laughing too much in a comedy, i'm here to tell you the answer is "yes." Last night, my friend Holly and I went to see the movie, Baby Mama (which stars Amy Poehler (show stealer) and Tina Fey). Well, it was a pretty funny movie. There are some scenes that made Holly and I laugh....really hard.
Let me back up for un momento. When we arrived at the theatre, there was hardly anyone there. We chose our seats carefully -- no one sitting directly in front of us and blocking no one's view behind us. Also, I like to not sit directly in front of people because we all know that it's much more fun to watch a movie with your feet propped up on the seat in front of us. Gasp! Yes, I admit it; I do this.
So, we sit down, the previews are just beginning when these two ladies -- one old and one whose age is undiscernable. You know how it is when people are probably younger than you think, but either because they are overweight or are with much older people or are dressed older, they just seem older? Anywhoo...
The ladies sit down DIRECTLY in front of us. The gall. The nerve. Whatever. Holly suggested we scoot down. She's a smart girl and so innovative. So we scooted down a few seats. Ahhh, comfort. My feet immediately go up on the seat in front and all is well with the world.
Now, said old lady is a low, loud talker. She has the gutteral voice of a lifetime smoker and she's not from the South. It's obvious. I am praying that her running commentary during the previews does not extend into the feature presentation. Hoping and praying and wishing and....
There are a lot of one liners in this movie and situational comedy. It's funny, people. Holly and I are near tears at times. Well, I cannot remember which scene it was -- I'm thinking it's the lamaze class scene where the instructor has a speech impediment and instead of "crying" she says "cwying". So, we're laughing....hard. The old lady turns her head around (not quite Exorcist style) and tells us to stop (in effect) that some people want to hear and that we're being very inconsiderate! WTF? It's a comedy. It's supposed to make you laugh a lot. So that made us laugh even harder. People around us were laughing too --and not at the movie. It's hard to recover after that. Now we're sitting there paranoid about laughing for fear of incurring the wrath of the crotchety, SO not fun, old lady. Holly took the opportunity to laugh EXTRA loud at the next available funny scene. I sunk down in to my chair and covered my face with my hoodie.
It took a lot not to say anything to her, but we didn't. It really ticked us off actually, but whatever. We kept laughing and she didn't scold us any more, but I did notice some shaking of the head.
But seriously folks, if you're going to a comedy, please expect laughter and loud laughter. Laughter is good for the soul!
Let me back up for un momento. When we arrived at the theatre, there was hardly anyone there. We chose our seats carefully -- no one sitting directly in front of us and blocking no one's view behind us. Also, I like to not sit directly in front of people because we all know that it's much more fun to watch a movie with your feet propped up on the seat in front of us. Gasp! Yes, I admit it; I do this.
So, we sit down, the previews are just beginning when these two ladies -- one old and one whose age is undiscernable. You know how it is when people are probably younger than you think, but either because they are overweight or are with much older people or are dressed older, they just seem older? Anywhoo...
The ladies sit down DIRECTLY in front of us. The gall. The nerve. Whatever. Holly suggested we scoot down. She's a smart girl and so innovative. So we scooted down a few seats. Ahhh, comfort. My feet immediately go up on the seat in front and all is well with the world.
Now, said old lady is a low, loud talker. She has the gutteral voice of a lifetime smoker and she's not from the South. It's obvious. I am praying that her running commentary during the previews does not extend into the feature presentation. Hoping and praying and wishing and....
There are a lot of one liners in this movie and situational comedy. It's funny, people. Holly and I are near tears at times. Well, I cannot remember which scene it was -- I'm thinking it's the lamaze class scene where the instructor has a speech impediment and instead of "crying" she says "cwying". So, we're laughing....hard. The old lady turns her head around (not quite Exorcist style) and tells us to stop (in effect) that some people want to hear and that we're being very inconsiderate! WTF? It's a comedy. It's supposed to make you laugh a lot. So that made us laugh even harder. People around us were laughing too --and not at the movie. It's hard to recover after that. Now we're sitting there paranoid about laughing for fear of incurring the wrath of the crotchety, SO not fun, old lady. Holly took the opportunity to laugh EXTRA loud at the next available funny scene. I sunk down in to my chair and covered my face with my hoodie.
It took a lot not to say anything to her, but we didn't. It really ticked us off actually, but whatever. We kept laughing and she didn't scold us any more, but I did notice some shaking of the head.
But seriously folks, if you're going to a comedy, please expect laughter and loud laughter. Laughter is good for the soul!
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Running
So my big accomplishment last night was running 5.7 miles! I haven't done that in forever. I know that's not a lot to you distance runners out there, but for me, WOW. It's exciting to see the progress I'm making in just the 2 months or so that I've been stepping up the workouts.
Holly and I met with our triathlon mentor on Sunday afternoon and now it's all the more real. We're doing this and it's going to be great!
I feel strong and healthy and like an athlete again. I like it and I think this is going to be a bit addictive (kind of like that ingredient in the colonel's chicken that makes you crave it fortnightly).
Holly and I met with our triathlon mentor on Sunday afternoon and now it's all the more real. We're doing this and it's going to be great!
I feel strong and healthy and like an athlete again. I like it and I think this is going to be a bit addictive (kind of like that ingredient in the colonel's chicken that makes you crave it fortnightly).
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Today
C.S. Lewis, from A Grief Observed
"... Meanwhile, where is God? This is one of the most disquieting symptoms. When you are happy, so happy that you have no sense of needing Him, so happy that you are tempted to feel His claims upon you as an interruption, if you remember yourself and turn to Him with gratitude and praise, you will be — or so it feels — welcomed with open arms. But go to Him when your need is desperate, when all other help is vain, and what do you find? A door slammed in your face, and a sound of bolting and double bolting on the inside. After that, silence. You may as well turn away. The longer you wait, the more emphatic the silence will become. There are no lights in the windows. It might be an empty house. Was it ever inhabited? It seemed so once. And that seeming was as strong as this. What can this mean? Why is He so present a commander in our time of prosperity and so very absent a help in time of trouble?"
"... Meanwhile, where is God? This is one of the most disquieting symptoms. When you are happy, so happy that you have no sense of needing Him, so happy that you are tempted to feel His claims upon you as an interruption, if you remember yourself and turn to Him with gratitude and praise, you will be — or so it feels — welcomed with open arms. But go to Him when your need is desperate, when all other help is vain, and what do you find? A door slammed in your face, and a sound of bolting and double bolting on the inside. After that, silence. You may as well turn away. The longer you wait, the more emphatic the silence will become. There are no lights in the windows. It might be an empty house. Was it ever inhabited? It seemed so once. And that seeming was as strong as this. What can this mean? Why is He so present a commander in our time of prosperity and so very absent a help in time of trouble?"
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Just the facts
My friend Amy, one of my oldest friends, tagged me. I'm supposed to write 7 facts about myself.
Here goes:
1. I've had my navel pierced twice.
2. In college, i wore a fake nose ring to test out the look. It took me until April of 2007 to get the real deal only to have it yanked out by my towel while drying my face.
3. I like the way God designed men's knees.
4. I drink a cup of coffee on my way to the Y at 5:30 a.m. before I swim.
5. I cannot stand to have someone use a pumice stone on the bottom of my feet. It is so ticklish, it's painful.
6. I twirl my hair.
7. My freshman college roommate Erin and I thought we were funny enough to write skits for SNL. We contemplated sending in some of our material.
I tag Emily, Marty, Murph and Holly!
Here goes:
1. I've had my navel pierced twice.
2. In college, i wore a fake nose ring to test out the look. It took me until April of 2007 to get the real deal only to have it yanked out by my towel while drying my face.
3. I like the way God designed men's knees.
4. I drink a cup of coffee on my way to the Y at 5:30 a.m. before I swim.
5. I cannot stand to have someone use a pumice stone on the bottom of my feet. It is so ticklish, it's painful.
6. I twirl my hair.
7. My freshman college roommate Erin and I thought we were funny enough to write skits for SNL. We contemplated sending in some of our material.
I tag Emily, Marty, Murph and Holly!
Monday, May 05, 2008
Remember Me
About 2 weeks ago, I asked the Lord to remember me. I was praying in the shower and prayed this prayer with the utmost sincerity. There are days that I feel that He has forgotten my life, forgotten my plight -- simply forgotten me. This morning, after I got back from swimmming at the Y, i opened my devotional and the reading was from Isaiah 49. These are the verses that jumped out at me in light of my prayer 2 weeks ago:
14 But Zion said, "The LORD has forsaken me,
the Lord has forgotten me."
15 "Can a mother forget the baby at her breast
and have no compassion on the child she has borne?
Though she may forget,
I will not forget you!
16 See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands;
your walls are ever before me.
He does not forget. He remembers.
14 But Zion said, "The LORD has forsaken me,
the Lord has forgotten me."
15 "Can a mother forget the baby at her breast
and have no compassion on the child she has borne?
Though she may forget,
I will not forget you!
16 See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands;
your walls are ever before me.
He does not forget. He remembers.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
SheRox!
September 14, 2008, I'll be doing this.
I've started the preliminary training. I started running more regularly about a month - 6 weeks ago. I got in the pool about a month ago and I had my first introduction to Charlotte's booty loop. I thought I handled it pretty well for my first real ride. (I should take this moment to give a shout out to Adam for being patient and slowing his pace for me!)
I am excited, scared, and feeling very empowered all at the same time. For the first time in a long time, I feel like I have a goal in sight and that feels really good. With my job, I'm not very goal oriented. I'm not one of those people who has a 5 year plan. So this is a true goal to work towards and I will feel very accomplished when I run through the finish line! I am so thankful to have friends in my community who are triathletes and are extremely helpful and encouraging! It's awesome.
Sunday, April 20, 2008
DR 2008
So, about a week ago I returned from my 4 day trip to the Dominican Republic (the "DR"). It was a great trip and just what I needed. I didn't do much except eat, sleep, lay in the sun and lay in the sun some more. Everyone in our group (sans 1) went snorkeling or diving (all at the same time). I thought it fun to float on the surface and follow the divers below. Anyhooo, i thought that traveling with 11 other people might present some issues, but it didn't. The only bad things that happened were that 2 of our guys were late arriving in the DR due to passport issues. They didn't have them when they arrived at the airport. So they had to do some scrambling and ended up having to deal with the US consulate in obtaining new passports!
The weather in the DR was perfect. High 80's with a light breeze. I know I could have done more exploring, but really, I needed the rest. So I am very very thankful for the time I had to do just that. Here are a couple photos from the trip!
Sunday, April 06, 2008
Recent music fave
A friend played Ray Lamontagne for me a few weeks ago and I fell in love with his voice. I don't know about you, but I hear a little Otis influence. Give him a listen.
| Ray LaMontagne - Hold You In My Arms | |
| | ||
| Found at skreemr.com | |
Monday, March 31, 2008
Beloved
On what is truly a Monday, I needed to read this:
Since Before the Foundations of the World
O Living Flame of Love . . . How gently and how lovingly Thou wakest in my bosom, where alone thou secretly dwellest; And in Thy sweet breathing full of grace and glory how tenderly Thou fillest me with Thy love.
These words, penned by St. John of the Cross in his book Living Flame of Love, capture the heart-cry of every soul for intimacy with God. For this we were created and for this we were rescued from sin and death. In Ephesians, Paul lets us in on a little secret: We’ve been more than noticed. God has pursued us from farther than space and longer ago than time. God has had us in mind since before the Foundations of the World. He loved us before the beginning of time, has come for us, and now calls us to journey toward him, with him, for the consummation of our love.
Who am I, really? The answer to that question is found in the answer to another: What is God’s heart toward me, or, how do I affect him? If God is the Pursuer, the Ageless Romancer, the Lover, then there has to be a Beloved, one who is the Pursued. This is our role in the story.
In the end, all we’ve ever really wanted is to be loved. “Love comes from God,” writes St. John. We don’t have to get God to love us by doing something right—even loving him. “This is love: not that we loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” Someone has noticed; someone has taken the initiative. There is nothing we need to do to keep it up, because his love for us is not based on what we’ve done, but who we are: His Beloved. “I belong to my lover, and his desire is for me” (Song 7:10).
(The Sacred Romance , 97–98)
Since Before the Foundations of the World
O Living Flame of Love . . . How gently and how lovingly Thou wakest in my bosom, where alone thou secretly dwellest; And in Thy sweet breathing full of grace and glory how tenderly Thou fillest me with Thy love.
These words, penned by St. John of the Cross in his book Living Flame of Love, capture the heart-cry of every soul for intimacy with God. For this we were created and for this we were rescued from sin and death. In Ephesians, Paul lets us in on a little secret: We’ve been more than noticed. God has pursued us from farther than space and longer ago than time. God has had us in mind since before the Foundations of the World. He loved us before the beginning of time, has come for us, and now calls us to journey toward him, with him, for the consummation of our love.
Who am I, really? The answer to that question is found in the answer to another: What is God’s heart toward me, or, how do I affect him? If God is the Pursuer, the Ageless Romancer, the Lover, then there has to be a Beloved, one who is the Pursued. This is our role in the story.
In the end, all we’ve ever really wanted is to be loved. “Love comes from God,” writes St. John. We don’t have to get God to love us by doing something right—even loving him. “This is love: not that we loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” Someone has noticed; someone has taken the initiative. There is nothing we need to do to keep it up, because his love for us is not based on what we’ve done, but who we are: His Beloved. “I belong to my lover, and his desire is for me” (Song 7:10).
(The Sacred Romance , 97–98)
Saturday, March 15, 2008
So darn cute
I found this on a friend's blog. Oh the cuteness you can find on Youtube! Check out the change in facial expression when the kid sticks his finger in Charlie's mouth! Classic.
Friday, March 14, 2008
A Little Otis for your Friday
I'm weary at the end of this week so here's a little advice: Try a little tenderness.
I love some Otis Redding so enjoy one of my fave tracks. If you're not familiar with Otis, you may recall this tune from a scene in Pretty in Pink where Ducky lip syncs this song in the record store. Classic.
| Otis Redding - Try A Little Tenderness | |
| | ||
| Found at skreemr.com | |
I love some Otis Redding so enjoy one of my fave tracks. If you're not familiar with Otis, you may recall this tune from a scene in Pretty in Pink where Ducky lip syncs this song in the record store. Classic.
Post 200!!
So, the last post that included one of my fave Weezer tunes was my 200th post! Do I get a prize?
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Weezer
This song immediately takes me back to Wilmington, NC. I remember driving around College Road with my friend John Knox in his Jeep Wrangler with the doors off and blasting this tune. Enjoy this little bit of Weezer goodness.
The world has turned and left me here
Just where I was before you appeared.
And in your place an empty space
Has filled the void behind my face.
| Weezer - The World Has Turned and Left Me Here | |
| | ||
| Found at skreemr.com | |
The world has turned and left me here
Just where I was before you appeared.
And in your place an empty space
Has filled the void behind my face.
Sunday, March 09, 2008
Sunday afternoon recreation
Josh
Vivian
MollyThis afternoon I spent some fun time with the Finks and the Metzls at Sports Connection in Ballantyne. The highlight was Laser Tag because it was my first time playing....ever. Marty and I had to join up with the red team which was comprised of a bunch of little girls who were party of birthday party. We were battling a bunch of little boys who were there for another birthday party! Good times ensued. I really enjoyed myself. I also enjoyed being "Auntie Steph" to Josh, Molly and Viv. It's fun to have kids in my life here in Charlotte. I pray that i can remain the coolest aunt ever. Ha!
Thursday, March 06, 2008
I have a lot to say today
So bear with me. I'll put it in different posts because the thoughts are all over the place: reflections on Charlotte One, music, spiritual stuff, etc.
I'll start with this:
Last night I was chatting with my friend Lisa who is going through a tough time. I shared some of my current "stuff" and we vowed to pray for each other. This morning, I get to work, sit down and open my e-mail. As I'm scrolling through, a new email pops up from Lisa. Her email included a devotional that is for today, March 6. It is amazing how appropo it is to her life and to mine -- and really to any of us who are waiting on the Lord.
March 6
"Behold I cry out of wrong, but I am not heard. I cry aloud, but there is no judgment." Job 19:7
When God seems indifferent, He is often most concerned. We may imagine that He does not care, when He permits us to pass through affliction, grief, and sorrow. Our prayers may seem to be unheard. The heavens appear to be brass above us. But all the time He is looking down upon us in sympathy and compassion, as to magnify His grace and glorify His name. He is actively engaged on our behalf even when we as yet fail to realize it. What is needed is that we learn not only to wait on Him in faith, but to wait for Him in patience.
"God's no means something better
I can trust Him with my all
The God who formed the universe
Attendeth when I call
And when in love and wisdom
He withholds my heart's request
His no means something better
He will give me what is best
God's wait a while's bring blessings
That His right away's withhold
When He's tried me in the fire
I shall then come forth as gold
Oh, what peace it brings in sorrow
And what comfort fills my breast
Just to know, whate'er His answer
He will give me what is best!
I'll start with this:
Last night I was chatting with my friend Lisa who is going through a tough time. I shared some of my current "stuff" and we vowed to pray for each other. This morning, I get to work, sit down and open my e-mail. As I'm scrolling through, a new email pops up from Lisa. Her email included a devotional that is for today, March 6. It is amazing how appropo it is to her life and to mine -- and really to any of us who are waiting on the Lord.
March 6
"Behold I cry out of wrong, but I am not heard. I cry aloud, but there is no judgment." Job 19:7
When God seems indifferent, He is often most concerned. We may imagine that He does not care, when He permits us to pass through affliction, grief, and sorrow. Our prayers may seem to be unheard. The heavens appear to be brass above us. But all the time He is looking down upon us in sympathy and compassion, as to magnify His grace and glorify His name. He is actively engaged on our behalf even when we as yet fail to realize it. What is needed is that we learn not only to wait on Him in faith, but to wait for Him in patience.
"God's no means something better
I can trust Him with my all
The God who formed the universe
Attendeth when I call
And when in love and wisdom
He withholds my heart's request
His no means something better
He will give me what is best
God's wait a while's bring blessings
That His right away's withhold
When He's tried me in the fire
I shall then come forth as gold
Oh, what peace it brings in sorrow
And what comfort fills my breast
Just to know, whate'er His answer
He will give me what is best!
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
Depression
So lately I've been interested in learning (or re-learning) about the Great Depression. Since I work in the subprime lending industry, one can't get away from negative thoughts about the economy. I've seen movies that depict what life was like back in the 10 years of the depression, but it's hard to imagine what it was really like. Men in business suits were standing in soup/bread lines. These same men stood in groups early in the morning at employment agencies hoping to get a day's work in to be able to feed their family for that day. How far are we from similar situations? I found this article to be interesting. This author discusses some of the causes of the Great Depression.
Monday, March 03, 2008
I like this song
This is Yeah! Oh Yeah! by The Magnetic Fields. A beautiful tne with some crazy lyrics. Well, they're dramatic.
For example:
Are you out of love with me?
Are you longing to be free?
Do I drive you up a tree?
Yeah! Oh, yeah!
Do I drive you up the wall?
Do you dread every phone call?
Can you not stand me at all?
Yeah! Oh, yeah!
For example:
Are you out of love with me?
Are you longing to be free?
Do I drive you up a tree?
Yeah! Oh, yeah!
Do I drive you up the wall?
Do you dread every phone call?
Can you not stand me at all?
Yeah! Oh, yeah!
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
From the Inside Out
Last night I was here. One of the songs we sang at the end is Inside Out. It's originally done by Hillsong -- a church in Australia that puts out a lot of really great praise and worship music. Well, the lyrics to From The Inside Out are worth sharing. You can find the song on iTunes.
A thousand times I've failed
Still Your mercy remains And should I stumble again
I'm caught in Your grace
Everlasting
Your light will shine when all else fades
Never ending
Your glory goes beyond all fame
Your will above all else
My purpose remains
The art of losing myself
In bringing You praise
Everlasting
Your light will shine when all else fades
Never ending
Your glory goes beyond all fame
In my heart and my soul
Lord I give You control
Consume me from the inside out
Lord let justice and praise
Become my embrace
To love you from the inside out
Everlasting
Your light will shine when all else fades
Never ending
Your glory goes beyond all fame
And the cry of my heart
Is to bring You praise
From the inside out
Lord my soul cries out
A thousand times I've failed
Still Your mercy remains And should I stumble again
I'm caught in Your grace
Everlasting
Your light will shine when all else fades
Never ending
Your glory goes beyond all fame
Your will above all else
My purpose remains
The art of losing myself
In bringing You praise
Everlasting
Your light will shine when all else fades
Never ending
Your glory goes beyond all fame
In my heart and my soul
Lord I give You control
Consume me from the inside out
Lord let justice and praise
Become my embrace
To love you from the inside out
Everlasting
Your light will shine when all else fades
Never ending
Your glory goes beyond all fame
And the cry of my heart
Is to bring You praise
From the inside out
Lord my soul cries out
Monday, February 25, 2008
Word to your Mutha
I am going to have a post each Monday called "Old Skool Monday". I will post a vid of an "old skool" hit that though you might blush a bit while admitting to liking it, you know you do!
So today, let's start with this one:
So today, let's start with this one:
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Food etc.
1. How do you take your coffee?
light and sweet.
2. What is your restaurant genre of choice? Currently Thai
3. If you had to eat the entire cake, what kind would it have to be? Any cake baked by Marty Metzl.
4. What kind of cook do you consider yourself to be (i.e. gourmet)? I think I'm pretty good at it! Not gourmet, but I usually succeed in my attempt.
5. Eggs for breakfast? Scrambled with black beans and then with salsa, cheese and a tough of sour cream!
6. Are you an adventurous eater? Yes.
7. Would you consider yourself a food snob? I can be. If eating out, I don't like a lot of "chain" restaurants. Like Olive Garden. I don't consider that Italian.
Okay, I tag Emily and Marty! Your turn....
light and sweet.
2. What is your restaurant genre of choice? Currently Thai
3. If you had to eat the entire cake, what kind would it have to be? Any cake baked by Marty Metzl.
4. What kind of cook do you consider yourself to be (i.e. gourmet)? I think I'm pretty good at it! Not gourmet, but I usually succeed in my attempt.
5. Eggs for breakfast? Scrambled with black beans and then with salsa, cheese and a tough of sour cream!
6. Are you an adventurous eater? Yes.
7. Would you consider yourself a food snob? I can be. If eating out, I don't like a lot of "chain" restaurants. Like Olive Garden. I don't consider that Italian.
Okay, I tag Emily and Marty! Your turn....
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Miss VivThursday, February 21, 2008
Intentions
What are your intentions?
How's that for a broad question? I've been pondering this question since a conversation I had with a male friend recently. It's related to the age old question of "can a man and a woman really be friends?" I really believe it's possible -- only if there is a clear understanding of intentions. I'm more keenly aware of this after my convo with this friend.
It's true, at some point along the way, the convo will have to be had about "what's up between us?" and it's often times not had until too late. Someone has feelings and the other doesn't share the same feelings. So, someone ends up getting hurt. Most of the time, people have no idea how to handle these situations. People can be rude or indifferent.
So what do you do? Do you have the convo right of the gate after meeting someone? Like a kind of a pre-emptive strike thus avoiding any misunderstanding for confusion and risk having overreacted or making assumptions? (That was a ver long, run-on sentence I know.) I don't know the answer. I think it's different for each friendship. It really depends at where a person is in their journey.
I can tell you right now that clear communication is the key. For both people to know and understand the thinking of the other is truly beneficial. Sometimes a person just needs a friend and doesn't want any drama. And sometimes a person cares enough about the heart of the other to have the conversation so that both hearts are properly cared for. Here's the verse that keeps coming back to me:
Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life. Proverbs 4:23.
What a challenge!
This guy/girl friendship thing can be very sticky. I know that I have really good friendships with men, but some of tehm haven't been without confusion and misunderstandings along the way. Sometimes, time has to be taken away or awkward conversations have to take place. But in the end, most of the friendships have become a lot more solid.
I do think that everyone who has a friendship with the opposite sex has, at one time or another, asked themselves, "what if?" The challenge is to keep talking about it as awkward as it may be.
Getting back to intentions: I have to constantly evaluate what my intentions are. God really knows my heart and that it's not my intention to every manipulate a friendship with a guy to work it to my advantage (but sadly i'm sure I have done this).
To end on a positive note, I have had some really incrediblly fun times with my guy friends. Many of them are like brothers to me. They check in on me and want to know what's going on with me. They want to know what the Lord is doing in my life. They want to laugh with me and want me to be able to share my heart with them (as appropriate).
God has truly blessed me with wonderful friendship (both male and female).
So anyway, know your motives. Be aware of your intentions. The challenge is on.
Blessings, y'all.
How's that for a broad question? I've been pondering this question since a conversation I had with a male friend recently. It's related to the age old question of "can a man and a woman really be friends?" I really believe it's possible -- only if there is a clear understanding of intentions. I'm more keenly aware of this after my convo with this friend.
It's true, at some point along the way, the convo will have to be had about "what's up between us?" and it's often times not had until too late. Someone has feelings and the other doesn't share the same feelings. So, someone ends up getting hurt. Most of the time, people have no idea how to handle these situations. People can be rude or indifferent.
So what do you do? Do you have the convo right of the gate after meeting someone? Like a kind of a pre-emptive strike thus avoiding any misunderstanding for confusion and risk having overreacted or making assumptions? (That was a ver long, run-on sentence I know.) I don't know the answer. I think it's different for each friendship. It really depends at where a person is in their journey.
I can tell you right now that clear communication is the key. For both people to know and understand the thinking of the other is truly beneficial. Sometimes a person just needs a friend and doesn't want any drama. And sometimes a person cares enough about the heart of the other to have the conversation so that both hearts are properly cared for. Here's the verse that keeps coming back to me:
Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life. Proverbs 4:23.
What a challenge!
This guy/girl friendship thing can be very sticky. I know that I have really good friendships with men, but some of tehm haven't been without confusion and misunderstandings along the way. Sometimes, time has to be taken away or awkward conversations have to take place. But in the end, most of the friendships have become a lot more solid.
I do think that everyone who has a friendship with the opposite sex has, at one time or another, asked themselves, "what if?" The challenge is to keep talking about it as awkward as it may be.
Getting back to intentions: I have to constantly evaluate what my intentions are. God really knows my heart and that it's not my intention to every manipulate a friendship with a guy to work it to my advantage (but sadly i'm sure I have done this).
To end on a positive note, I have had some really incrediblly fun times with my guy friends. Many of them are like brothers to me. They check in on me and want to know what's going on with me. They want to know what the Lord is doing in my life. They want to laugh with me and want me to be able to share my heart with them (as appropriate).
God has truly blessed me with wonderful friendship (both male and female).
So anyway, know your motives. Be aware of your intentions. The challenge is on.
Blessings, y'all.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Timely
A friend here at work sent this to me today. I love it when the Lord ministers to me through others. He really is pretty good at this being in control thing. This devotion is from the Purpose Driven Life daily devotional.
******
As Quiet As A Child
2008/02/20
I don't concern myself with matters too great or awesome for me. But I have stilled and quieted myself, just as a small child is quiet with its mother. Yes, like a small child is my soul within me. O Israel, put your hope in the LORD — now and always. (Psalms 131:1b-3 NLT)
Today’s devotional actually comes from my sister, a godly woman and serious prayer warrior. She e-mailed this morning, saying she’d been thinking the peace of God that passes all understanding.
She said she’d spent some time meditating on Psalm 131 –
· Verse 1b – “… I don't concern myself with matters too great or awesome for me ….” We are free to live out our purpose when we relinquish control of the things that don’t belong to us in the first place, such as worry about things over which we have no control, or trying to control something we have no business trying to control.
· Verse 2 – “But I have stilled and quieted myself, just as a small child is quiet with its mother ….” I trust, even when the outcome seems a long way away. A nursing child wants attention now, but weaned child trusts and is content to wait.
· Verse 3 – “… Put your hope in the LORD — now and always.” We hope in the Lord with confident expectation. In other words, we truly believe he will answer our prayers, that he will respond, that he will get us through. You can declare confidently that the Lord will pave your way and walk with you and keep your feet from stumbling. He’s done it before, and he’ll do it again!
Praise God for his peace! It is through his peace that we can do all things – and endure so much. It is a peace that passes all understanding.
What now?
· Overly concerned – Is your peace undermined because you’re concerned about matters that are not even your responsibility? Or a matter over which you have absolutely no control? Ask God what should be on your "responsibility" list; ask him what items you should remove from your list. Psalm 131:1b – “I don't concern myself with matters too great or awesome for me.”
· Prayer, but delayed gratification – Are you at peace because you have learned to trust God and wait? If not, ask God to reveal what makes you demand an immediate answer from him, and talk to him about what he reveals. Ask God to help you learn to trust him – and to wait. Psalm 131:2 – “But I have stilled and quieted myself, just as a small child is quiet with its mother. Yes, like a small child is my soul within me.”
· Confident expectation – When you say you hope in the Lord, then really hope in the Lord. Expect him to come through for you – at just the right time in just the right way. Psalm 131:3 – “O Israel, put your hope in the LORD — now and always.”
******
As Quiet As A Child
2008/02/20
I don't concern myself with matters too great or awesome for me. But I have stilled and quieted myself, just as a small child is quiet with its mother. Yes, like a small child is my soul within me. O Israel, put your hope in the LORD — now and always. (Psalms 131:1b-3 NLT)
Today’s devotional actually comes from my sister, a godly woman and serious prayer warrior. She e-mailed this morning, saying she’d been thinking the peace of God that passes all understanding.
She said she’d spent some time meditating on Psalm 131 –
· Verse 1b – “… I don't concern myself with matters too great or awesome for me ….” We are free to live out our purpose when we relinquish control of the things that don’t belong to us in the first place, such as worry about things over which we have no control, or trying to control something we have no business trying to control.
· Verse 2 – “But I have stilled and quieted myself, just as a small child is quiet with its mother ….” I trust, even when the outcome seems a long way away. A nursing child wants attention now, but weaned child trusts and is content to wait.
· Verse 3 – “… Put your hope in the LORD — now and always.” We hope in the Lord with confident expectation. In other words, we truly believe he will answer our prayers, that he will respond, that he will get us through. You can declare confidently that the Lord will pave your way and walk with you and keep your feet from stumbling. He’s done it before, and he’ll do it again!
Praise God for his peace! It is through his peace that we can do all things – and endure so much. It is a peace that passes all understanding.
What now?
· Overly concerned – Is your peace undermined because you’re concerned about matters that are not even your responsibility? Or a matter over which you have absolutely no control? Ask God what should be on your "responsibility" list; ask him what items you should remove from your list. Psalm 131:1b – “I don't concern myself with matters too great or awesome for me.”
· Prayer, but delayed gratification – Are you at peace because you have learned to trust God and wait? If not, ask God to reveal what makes you demand an immediate answer from him, and talk to him about what he reveals. Ask God to help you learn to trust him – and to wait. Psalm 131:2 – “But I have stilled and quieted myself, just as a small child is quiet with its mother. Yes, like a small child is my soul within me.”
· Confident expectation – When you say you hope in the Lord, then really hope in the Lord. Expect him to come through for you – at just the right time in just the right way. Psalm 131:3 – “O Israel, put your hope in the LORD — now and always.”
Knowing Me. Knowing You?
Oh, these silly email "surveys". I am a sucker for them.
1. What is your occupation? Paralegal
2. What color are your socks right now? No socks (wearing heels)
3. What are you listening to right now? White noise and distant voices (not in my head)
4. What was the last thing that you ate? oatmeal
5. Pet Peeves? People who do not use their turn signal.
6. If you were a crayon, what color would you be? Midnight blue
7. Last person you spoke to on the phone? Jason
8. Do you like the person who sent this to you? yep
9. How old are you today? 31
10. Favorite drink? Fresh lemonade/iced tea mix
11. What is your favorite sport to watch? College hoops
12. Have you ever dyed your hair? Oh yes
13. Pets? no
14. Favorite food? Right now, thai curry
15. Last movie you watched? Ratatouille
16. What do you do to prevent anger? Can you really prevent it?
17. Favorite Day of the year? Thanksgiving and my birthday!
18. What was your favorite toy as a child? Strawberry Shortcake and friends
19. What is your favorite, fall or spring? Fall
20. Hugs or kisses? Love ‘em both
21. Cherry or Blueberry? I don’t like cherries, but like cherry flavor. Weird.
22. Do you want your friends to email you back? ok
23. Who is most likely to respond? Becca
24. Who is least likely to respond? Any of the guys I sent this to
25. Living arrangements? Me myself and I
26. When was the last time you cried? Hmmm. Sunday.
27. What is on the floor of your closet? Laundry baskets and duffle bags
28. Who is the friend you have had the longest relationship with that you are sending this to? The JoJo
29. The friend you have had the shortest that you are sending this to? ?
30. Favorite smell? Freshly cut grass
31. What inspires you? people who live selflessly
32. What are you afraid of? Snakes and sharks
33. Plain, cheese or spicy hamburgers? Cheeseburgers!
34. Favorite car you have owned? ’82 Toyota Cressida – first car and it had a sunroof and great radio.
35. Favorite cat breed? No thanks! Highly allergic to cats.
36. Number of keys on your key ring? 5 – only use 2 though.
37. How many years at your current job? 1 1/2
38. Favorite day of the week? Let’s just go with the weekend.
39. How many states have you lived in? 3
40. How many countries have you been to? France, Scotland, England, Australia, Bahamas, Canada, Curacao
41. What was your favorite country? Scotland (the motherland)
42. Today's date and time: 2/20/08 9:02
1. What is your occupation? Paralegal
2. What color are your socks right now? No socks (wearing heels)
3. What are you listening to right now? White noise and distant voices (not in my head)
4. What was the last thing that you ate? oatmeal
5. Pet Peeves? People who do not use their turn signal.
6. If you were a crayon, what color would you be? Midnight blue
7. Last person you spoke to on the phone? Jason
8. Do you like the person who sent this to you? yep
9. How old are you today? 31
10. Favorite drink? Fresh lemonade/iced tea mix
11. What is your favorite sport to watch? College hoops
12. Have you ever dyed your hair? Oh yes
13. Pets? no
14. Favorite food? Right now, thai curry
15. Last movie you watched? Ratatouille
16. What do you do to prevent anger? Can you really prevent it?
17. Favorite Day of the year? Thanksgiving and my birthday!
18. What was your favorite toy as a child? Strawberry Shortcake and friends
19. What is your favorite, fall or spring? Fall
20. Hugs or kisses? Love ‘em both
21. Cherry or Blueberry? I don’t like cherries, but like cherry flavor. Weird.
22. Do you want your friends to email you back? ok
23. Who is most likely to respond? Becca
24. Who is least likely to respond? Any of the guys I sent this to
25. Living arrangements? Me myself and I
26. When was the last time you cried? Hmmm. Sunday.
27. What is on the floor of your closet? Laundry baskets and duffle bags
28. Who is the friend you have had the longest relationship with that you are sending this to? The JoJo
29. The friend you have had the shortest that you are sending this to? ?
30. Favorite smell? Freshly cut grass
31. What inspires you? people who live selflessly
32. What are you afraid of? Snakes and sharks
33. Plain, cheese or spicy hamburgers? Cheeseburgers!
34. Favorite car you have owned? ’82 Toyota Cressida – first car and it had a sunroof and great radio.
35. Favorite cat breed? No thanks! Highly allergic to cats.
36. Number of keys on your key ring? 5 – only use 2 though.
37. How many years at your current job? 1 1/2
38. Favorite day of the week? Let’s just go with the weekend.
39. How many states have you lived in? 3
40. How many countries have you been to? France, Scotland, England, Australia, Bahamas, Canada, Curacao
41. What was your favorite country? Scotland (the motherland)
42. Today's date and time: 2/20/08 9:02
Monday, February 18, 2008
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Closer
I went to church this morning and during the "worship" set, the band played an arrangement that combines "Deliver Me" by David Crowder Band and then "Transatlanticism" by Death Cab for Cutie. It was beautiful. Something really resonated within me and the lyrics became mine. (Not to mention that Transatlanticsm is a kick arse song musically speaking.)
So, this afternoon I downloaded both songs and put them on my iPod so I could listen to them while I walked. Walks have become something of a refuge for me. I do a lot of thinking and praying during my walks. No other songs made it into the playlist for my walk. I kept backing them up and listening to them over and over. Something was stirring within. While Transatlanticism played in my ears, I found myself wiping tears away and sniffling (hoping other walkers wouldn't notice) and praying to God, "I need you so much closer. So Come on." Here are some of the lyrics from the song:
The rhythm of my footsteps crossing flatlands to your door have been silenced forever more.
The distance is quite simply much too far for me to row
It seems farther than ever before
Oh no.
I need you so much closer
I need you so much closer
I need you so much closer
So come on, come on
So come on, come on.
I know this song is about a human relationship, but for me the song is easily translated to the relationship to Christ that someof us struggle with from time to time. Those of us who are believers know that every now and again we feel distance in that relationship. I know that my footstep's rhythm to Christ's door are not silenced forevermore and the distance to Him isn't insurmountable, but sometimes the steps towards Him aren't taken enough or even at all.
Interestingly enough, this morning when Bruce was preaching on anger, I found myself thinking that it offered me nothing. I kind of zoned out after awhile. Then this evening while I was walking, I started owning up to some of the anger and frustrations I have about situations in my life. The tears kept flowing. I need to know that he really does bind up the brokenhearted.
So, God, I need you so much closer.
Here are the lyrics from the other much repeated song:
Deliver me out of the sadness
Deliver me from all the madness
Deliver me courage to guide me
Deliver me Your strength inside me
CHORUS:
All of my life
I've been in hiding
Wishing there was someone just like You
Now that You're here
Now that I've found You
I know that You're the One to pull me through
Deliver me loving and caring
Deliver me giving and sharing
Deliver me this cross that I'm bearing
Oh, deliver me
Jesus, Jesus how I trust You
How I've proved You o'er and o'er
Jesus, Jesus precious Jesus
Deliver me
Come and pull me through
Come pull me through
Enough said.
The night ended by having some good, encouraging conversations with friends. I'm blessed and I do know that He does pull us through the disappointments of life by bringing joy from unexpected places.
Here's a verse that a very good friend put in a card to me last week. Let this reside in your mind and let it penetrate your heart today:
"The LORD your God in your midst,
The Mighty One, will save;
He will rejoice over you with gladness,
He will quiet you with His love,
He will rejoice over you with singing." Zephaniah 3:17
So, this afternoon I downloaded both songs and put them on my iPod so I could listen to them while I walked. Walks have become something of a refuge for me. I do a lot of thinking and praying during my walks. No other songs made it into the playlist for my walk. I kept backing them up and listening to them over and over. Something was stirring within. While Transatlanticism played in my ears, I found myself wiping tears away and sniffling (hoping other walkers wouldn't notice) and praying to God, "I need you so much closer. So Come on." Here are some of the lyrics from the song:
The rhythm of my footsteps crossing flatlands to your door have been silenced forever more.
The distance is quite simply much too far for me to row
It seems farther than ever before
Oh no.
I need you so much closer
I need you so much closer
I need you so much closer
So come on, come on
So come on, come on.
I know this song is about a human relationship, but for me the song is easily translated to the relationship to Christ that someof us struggle with from time to time. Those of us who are believers know that every now and again we feel distance in that relationship. I know that my footstep's rhythm to Christ's door are not silenced forevermore and the distance to Him isn't insurmountable, but sometimes the steps towards Him aren't taken enough or even at all.
Interestingly enough, this morning when Bruce was preaching on anger, I found myself thinking that it offered me nothing. I kind of zoned out after awhile. Then this evening while I was walking, I started owning up to some of the anger and frustrations I have about situations in my life. The tears kept flowing. I need to know that he really does bind up the brokenhearted.
So, God, I need you so much closer.
Here are the lyrics from the other much repeated song:
Deliver me out of the sadness
Deliver me from all the madness
Deliver me courage to guide me
Deliver me Your strength inside me
CHORUS:
All of my life
I've been in hiding
Wishing there was someone just like You
Now that You're here
Now that I've found You
I know that You're the One to pull me through
Deliver me loving and caring
Deliver me giving and sharing
Deliver me this cross that I'm bearing
Oh, deliver me
Jesus, Jesus how I trust You
How I've proved You o'er and o'er
Jesus, Jesus precious Jesus
Deliver me
Come and pull me through
Come pull me through
Enough said.
The night ended by having some good, encouraging conversations with friends. I'm blessed and I do know that He does pull us through the disappointments of life by bringing joy from unexpected places.
Here's a verse that a very good friend put in a card to me last week. Let this reside in your mind and let it penetrate your heart today:
"The LORD your God in your midst,
The Mighty One, will save;
He will rejoice over you with gladness,
He will quiet you with His love,
He will rejoice over you with singing." Zephaniah 3:17
Friday, February 15, 2008
Valentine's Dinner
How did I spend Valentine's night? With my small group! I love my small group. Here are some shots from the evening.
Scott the Host
Michelle the hostess
Apple Cobbler
my valentine's cupcakes
Scott the Host
Michelle the hostess
Apple Cobbler
my valentine's cupcakes
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