Thank You For Being A Friend
( Andrew Gold )
Thank you for being a friend
Traveled down a road and back again
Your heart is true, you're a pal and a confidant
I'm not ashamed to say
I hope it always will stay this way
My hat is off, won't you stand up and take a bow
And if you threw a party
Invited everyone you knew
You would see the biggest gift would be from me
And the card attached would say
Thank you for being a friend
Thank you for being a friend
Thank you for being a friend
Thank you for being a friend
If it's a car you lack
I'd surely buy you a Cadillac
Whatever you need any time of the day or night
I'm not ashamed to say
I hope it always will stay this way
My hat is off, won't you stand up and take a bow
And when we both get older
With walking canes and hair of gray
Have no fear even though it's hard to hear
I will stand real close and say
Thank you for being a friend
Thank you for being a friend
Thank you for being a friend
Thank you for being a friend
And when we die
And float away
Into the night
The milky way
You'll hear me call
As we ascend
I'll say your name
Then once again
Thank you for being a friend
Friday, August 10, 2007
Disatisfaction ...a great article
http://spiritledwoman.com/display_cms.php?id=145
Longing For Something More
By Anahid Schweikert
ARE YOU EXPERIENCING AN UNEXPLAINED FEELING OF DISSATISFACTION? THE REASON FOR IT MIGHT BE SPIRITUAL HUNGER.
My friend was sick with frustration. You could see it all over her face and hear it in her voice as she talked about unmet expectations at her church.
"You're never satisfied," remarked her husband. Unlike his wife, he was happy with their full-gospel church, and he felt fulfilled in the ways he was serving there. Everything was in place--a beautiful new building, committees ready for action, outreach efforts underway.
But for my friend and others at her church, there was still a deep sense of dissatisfaction. It wasn't a rumbling, like complaining, but more a gnawing hunger for something more--the life-changing presence of the Holy Spirit.
I identified with my friend's feelings; I had experienced them myself. Perhaps you have, too. It may not be your church that leaves your spirit wanting; it may be your job. Or perhaps your marriage is missing something. Maybe your whole life feels empty!
Deep inside you know there must be more, but your hope is drained when well-meaning friends try to offer biblical counsel, telling you to let go of your lofty expectations and learn to be content with what you've got.
But is this counsel truly biblical? My understanding is that it is not. Scripture does not declare all dissatisfaction to be a product of the flesh. Although we often use the words "satisfaction" and "contentment" interchangeably, they don't mean the same thing, and confusing the two may alter the course of our lives.
SATISFACTION VS. CONTENTMENT In English, to be satisfied means to have your fill of what you desire, expect or need (Funk and Wagnall's Standard Desk Dictionary). Similarly, in the original Bible languages, numerous words translated as "satisfy" imply a completion and a filling (see the New American Standard Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible).
"Contentment," on the other hand, refers to a sense of gladly accepting what is offered to you, knowing that more could be had, such as politely accepting a salad when you really wanted a steak. Webster's New World Dictionary defines it as being "happy with one's lot."
Sadly, some people believe the biblical charge of contentment is a mandate to relinquish all their unmet desires. But if we abandon every expectation for increase, we may do more than smother our hopes and dreams. We may immobilize God's perfect will in our lives by settling for less than what He has ordained for us to have and do!
Interestingly, most Scriptures that refer to contentment pertain to material wealth, not spiritual fulfillment. Consider the oft-quoted passage in 1 Timothy 6:6-8: "Godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it" (NIV). Paul is referring here to the riches of this world and exhorting believers to value eternal things more.
Again, Paul writes: "I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty" (Phil. 4:11-12). Here he is discussing the support he has received from the Philippian church, pronouncing his reliance upon God for even his essential physical needs.
"Keep your lives free from the love of money," we are told in Hebrews 13:5, "and be content with what you have, because God has said, 'Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.'"
God's word does command us to be content with our means. But when it comes to eternal matters of the heart--our walk with God, relationships with others, finding meaning in life--God wants us to be filled to overflowing! When Scripture refers to man's being satisfied, it's often in the context of hunger and thirst of the soul. "'Blessed are you who hunger now,'" says Jesus, "'for you will be satisfied'" (Luke 6:21).
One summer day, our family went to the beach. While my husband went off to study a book under the shade, I waded along the shoreline with our 2-year-old daughter, Olivia, who was reluctant to go into water beyond her knees. As a mother, I was happy to play with her in the sand, watching her waddle around in the gentle waves. I was content!
The day grew hotter and hotter, though, and after awhile the sizzling sun began to beat down on our heads. Eventually, splashing along the shore was no longer enough for me. Wading up to my knees wasn't invigorating. I felt as if I were melting, and I needed something more!
The deeper water was calling to me, and I was no longer content to do the "Mommy thing." I simply had to satisfy my body's need to cool off!
As soon as my husband joined us and took over the responsibility of watching Olivia, I dove in deeper for a real swim. How refreshing that was! How satisfying!
I might have been content to cool off in an air-conditioned building rather than in the water, but leaving the beach without going into the water would not have satisfied me. I would have felt as if I had missed something wonderful.
SATISFACTION CHECKLIST And so it is with your spirit. It's OK to be dissatisfied in your spiritual walk. That's what beckons you into the deeper waters God has for you.
"'Come, all you who are thirsty," says the Word, "come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost. Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy?'" (Is. 55:1-2).
If you find yourself wanting more, don't assume there's something wrong. Stop to consider the nature of your yearning. It is possible to know whether the desires in your heart are of God or not.
How do you tell? How do you determine whether to let them go and be content or press on until your heart is truly satisfied?
Examine your motives. James warns us, "You want something but don't get it...When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures" (James 4:2-3). In light of biblical contentment, you must first search your heart to see if your desires have eternal significance.
Jesus, knowing that man's heart is easily enticed by earthly things, tells us to "'store up...treasures in heaven'" (Matt. 6:20), not only because earthly things will pass away but also because He wants our hearts to be given totally to Him.
"'Where your treasure is,'" He says, "'there your heart will be also'" (v. 21). Follow the trail to your treasure chest, and there you will find your heart.
Fear the Lord. "He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them" (Ps. 145:19). A healthy fear of God will make you humbly aware of your accountability to Him.
If your heart seems to be guiding you to do a new thing, first yield that desire to the Lord and see if He releases you to pursue it. Once He makes His leading clear, follow it--or satisfaction will
continue to elude you.
Be diligent. "The sluggard craves and gets nothing, but the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied" (Prov. 13:4). You may have a godly desire in your heart, but don't expect to simply wake up one morning and find yourself living your dream. You must birth it in prayer, ask the Holy Spirit what to do and then do it, whether it requires taking a baby step or a great leap of faith.
Sometimes there's nothing you can do to achieve your desires except pray and wait on the Lord. But even then you must live in the present.
Look around you. What is your current sphere of influence? Can you find a way to serve God there with a glad heart?
If so, you will eventually hear Him say, "Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!" (Matt. 25:21).
Continue to hope. "Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life" (Prov. 13:12). If you are inclined to "just be content" in every area of your life, ask yourself if you have lost hope. Perhaps a renewed hope in the Lord would give you reason to press on until you can truly say your heart is satisfied.
It is His desire to give us this hope. "'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart'" (Jer. 29:11-13).
In Oswald Chambers' classic devotional, My Utmost for His Highest, Chambers writes about vision becoming reality. "God gives us a vision, and then He takes us down to the valley to batter us into the shape of that vision," he writes. "It is in the valley that so many of us give up and faint."
Chambers explains that God inspires us with vision but does not entrust us with the reality of it until we have been molded to His likeness, as clay on the potter's wheel.
"But don't lose heart in the process," he writes. "If you ever had a vision from God, you may try as you will to be satisfied on a lower level, but God will never allow it."
My friend and the "hungry" people in her church refused to be content playing church. They pressed forth in prayer, and soon the church leadership recognized the need as well. They began to lead the congregation out to deeper waters of revival, raising the standard of their Christian experience.
Your inner craving for more, like my friend's, should be examined. If it's of God, your dissatisfaction can be used as a tool to propel you toward a more fulfilling life in the Lord. But if you ignore your pain until you've gone numb, you may be lulled into settling for a mediocre existence, even in the things that really matter.
"Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love," wrote David, "that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days" (Ps. 90:14). In the end, the secret of satisfaction is knowing that whatever longing we feel begins and ends with Jesus, for He alone truly satisfies our souls.
Anahid Schweikert is a free-lance writer who lives in Iron Mountain, Michigan. She is a frequent contributor to SpiritLed Woman.
This article appeared in the Apr/May 2000 issue.
Longing For Something More
By Anahid Schweikert
ARE YOU EXPERIENCING AN UNEXPLAINED FEELING OF DISSATISFACTION? THE REASON FOR IT MIGHT BE SPIRITUAL HUNGER.
My friend was sick with frustration. You could see it all over her face and hear it in her voice as she talked about unmet expectations at her church.
"You're never satisfied," remarked her husband. Unlike his wife, he was happy with their full-gospel church, and he felt fulfilled in the ways he was serving there. Everything was in place--a beautiful new building, committees ready for action, outreach efforts underway.
But for my friend and others at her church, there was still a deep sense of dissatisfaction. It wasn't a rumbling, like complaining, but more a gnawing hunger for something more--the life-changing presence of the Holy Spirit.
I identified with my friend's feelings; I had experienced them myself. Perhaps you have, too. It may not be your church that leaves your spirit wanting; it may be your job. Or perhaps your marriage is missing something. Maybe your whole life feels empty!
Deep inside you know there must be more, but your hope is drained when well-meaning friends try to offer biblical counsel, telling you to let go of your lofty expectations and learn to be content with what you've got.
But is this counsel truly biblical? My understanding is that it is not. Scripture does not declare all dissatisfaction to be a product of the flesh. Although we often use the words "satisfaction" and "contentment" interchangeably, they don't mean the same thing, and confusing the two may alter the course of our lives.
SATISFACTION VS. CONTENTMENT In English, to be satisfied means to have your fill of what you desire, expect or need (Funk and Wagnall's Standard Desk Dictionary). Similarly, in the original Bible languages, numerous words translated as "satisfy" imply a completion and a filling (see the New American Standard Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible).
"Contentment," on the other hand, refers to a sense of gladly accepting what is offered to you, knowing that more could be had, such as politely accepting a salad when you really wanted a steak. Webster's New World Dictionary defines it as being "happy with one's lot."
Sadly, some people believe the biblical charge of contentment is a mandate to relinquish all their unmet desires. But if we abandon every expectation for increase, we may do more than smother our hopes and dreams. We may immobilize God's perfect will in our lives by settling for less than what He has ordained for us to have and do!
Interestingly, most Scriptures that refer to contentment pertain to material wealth, not spiritual fulfillment. Consider the oft-quoted passage in 1 Timothy 6:6-8: "Godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it" (NIV). Paul is referring here to the riches of this world and exhorting believers to value eternal things more.
Again, Paul writes: "I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty" (Phil. 4:11-12). Here he is discussing the support he has received from the Philippian church, pronouncing his reliance upon God for even his essential physical needs.
"Keep your lives free from the love of money," we are told in Hebrews 13:5, "and be content with what you have, because God has said, 'Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.'"
God's word does command us to be content with our means. But when it comes to eternal matters of the heart--our walk with God, relationships with others, finding meaning in life--God wants us to be filled to overflowing! When Scripture refers to man's being satisfied, it's often in the context of hunger and thirst of the soul. "'Blessed are you who hunger now,'" says Jesus, "'for you will be satisfied'" (Luke 6:21).
One summer day, our family went to the beach. While my husband went off to study a book under the shade, I waded along the shoreline with our 2-year-old daughter, Olivia, who was reluctant to go into water beyond her knees. As a mother, I was happy to play with her in the sand, watching her waddle around in the gentle waves. I was content!
The day grew hotter and hotter, though, and after awhile the sizzling sun began to beat down on our heads. Eventually, splashing along the shore was no longer enough for me. Wading up to my knees wasn't invigorating. I felt as if I were melting, and I needed something more!
The deeper water was calling to me, and I was no longer content to do the "Mommy thing." I simply had to satisfy my body's need to cool off!
As soon as my husband joined us and took over the responsibility of watching Olivia, I dove in deeper for a real swim. How refreshing that was! How satisfying!
I might have been content to cool off in an air-conditioned building rather than in the water, but leaving the beach without going into the water would not have satisfied me. I would have felt as if I had missed something wonderful.
SATISFACTION CHECKLIST And so it is with your spirit. It's OK to be dissatisfied in your spiritual walk. That's what beckons you into the deeper waters God has for you.
"'Come, all you who are thirsty," says the Word, "come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost. Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy?'" (Is. 55:1-2).
If you find yourself wanting more, don't assume there's something wrong. Stop to consider the nature of your yearning. It is possible to know whether the desires in your heart are of God or not.
How do you tell? How do you determine whether to let them go and be content or press on until your heart is truly satisfied?
Examine your motives. James warns us, "You want something but don't get it...When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures" (James 4:2-3). In light of biblical contentment, you must first search your heart to see if your desires have eternal significance.
Jesus, knowing that man's heart is easily enticed by earthly things, tells us to "'store up...treasures in heaven'" (Matt. 6:20), not only because earthly things will pass away but also because He wants our hearts to be given totally to Him.
"'Where your treasure is,'" He says, "'there your heart will be also'" (v. 21). Follow the trail to your treasure chest, and there you will find your heart.
Fear the Lord. "He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them" (Ps. 145:19). A healthy fear of God will make you humbly aware of your accountability to Him.
If your heart seems to be guiding you to do a new thing, first yield that desire to the Lord and see if He releases you to pursue it. Once He makes His leading clear, follow it--or satisfaction will
continue to elude you.
Be diligent. "The sluggard craves and gets nothing, but the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied" (Prov. 13:4). You may have a godly desire in your heart, but don't expect to simply wake up one morning and find yourself living your dream. You must birth it in prayer, ask the Holy Spirit what to do and then do it, whether it requires taking a baby step or a great leap of faith.
Sometimes there's nothing you can do to achieve your desires except pray and wait on the Lord. But even then you must live in the present.
Look around you. What is your current sphere of influence? Can you find a way to serve God there with a glad heart?
If so, you will eventually hear Him say, "Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!" (Matt. 25:21).
Continue to hope. "Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life" (Prov. 13:12). If you are inclined to "just be content" in every area of your life, ask yourself if you have lost hope. Perhaps a renewed hope in the Lord would give you reason to press on until you can truly say your heart is satisfied.
It is His desire to give us this hope. "'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart'" (Jer. 29:11-13).
In Oswald Chambers' classic devotional, My Utmost for His Highest, Chambers writes about vision becoming reality. "God gives us a vision, and then He takes us down to the valley to batter us into the shape of that vision," he writes. "It is in the valley that so many of us give up and faint."
Chambers explains that God inspires us with vision but does not entrust us with the reality of it until we have been molded to His likeness, as clay on the potter's wheel.
"But don't lose heart in the process," he writes. "If you ever had a vision from God, you may try as you will to be satisfied on a lower level, but God will never allow it."
My friend and the "hungry" people in her church refused to be content playing church. They pressed forth in prayer, and soon the church leadership recognized the need as well. They began to lead the congregation out to deeper waters of revival, raising the standard of their Christian experience.
Your inner craving for more, like my friend's, should be examined. If it's of God, your dissatisfaction can be used as a tool to propel you toward a more fulfilling life in the Lord. But if you ignore your pain until you've gone numb, you may be lulled into settling for a mediocre existence, even in the things that really matter.
"Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love," wrote David, "that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days" (Ps. 90:14). In the end, the secret of satisfaction is knowing that whatever longing we feel begins and ends with Jesus, for He alone truly satisfies our souls.
Anahid Schweikert is a free-lance writer who lives in Iron Mountain, Michigan. She is a frequent contributor to SpiritLed Woman.
This article appeared in the Apr/May 2000 issue.
Sunday, August 05, 2007
So far so good,
working at Camp...had one group out now. Worked like Crazy!!! this was a hard core bible "grace" fundamental premellienial Baptist group. wow. I have to think about some of the things that happened.
Will share later.
Will share later.
Thursday, August 02, 2007
JOY ism Dead Ferret
I just spent a while on a great "fresh" dinner. We went to Farmer's market today in Mt Pleasant, so dinner tonight was corn on the cob, fresh tomato sandwiches with 2 kinds of lettuce on Jalapeño bread, Made my first Fruit Bowl out of Watermelon, with peaches, grapes and strawberries.
THEN...everyone was done, and my fingernails were Nasty..so I got out the fingernail polish remover. I called Joy to computer to used web cam to take her picture as I still haven't learned how to transfer pic's from camera...
She came through the kitchen
and said....
"What stinks in the kitchen so badly??? It Smells like DEAD FERRET."
WHAT? Just exactly WHAT does a Dead Ferret smell like? and how would SHE know??? Gone are the days of Homeschooling where I knew WHAT they knew and where they learned it!! LOL!!
THEN...everyone was done, and my fingernails were Nasty..so I got out the fingernail polish remover. I called Joy to computer to used web cam to take her picture as I still haven't learned how to transfer pic's from camera...
She came through the kitchen
and said....
"What stinks in the kitchen so badly??? It Smells like DEAD FERRET."
WHAT? Just exactly WHAT does a Dead Ferret smell like? and how would SHE know??? Gone are the days of Homeschooling where I knew WHAT they knew and where they learned it!! LOL!!
Joy's arm Continued
Went to surgeon today...NO SURGERY needed at this time!..>Joy got her cast reinforced and closed down, and color changed to pink! Its very hot.
My new favorite website
http://www.stuffonmycat.com
yes, Subject to change at whim, but THIS makes me Crack up every time!!!
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Out of Gas
My van let me down. It's like a date with a friend and they don't show up...don't call, just nothing.
I KNOW my van! nevertheless....a new twist develops.
I picked up students for Tae Kwon Do for class in Mt. Pleasant, as well as my two that are home (broken arm and all) and dropped them off at Finch Field house. Yes...It was still in the '90's!!
Decided I'd go get some gas while they were in class. The light had come on, but that means about 30 miles yet.
WRONG.
Right in the middle of Preston, putter stutter DIE. Called my mom...she didn't answer the phone. Called my brother..he was in Saginaw. He suggested I call my sister in law...which I did.
Meanwhile..it started..and I had to get what I thought was TWO blocks to the gas station...and I made it there...across from Arby's..AWQWCK!!! It was CLOSED..Not closed as in not open for business but RIPPED apart closed.
Called my SIL back, I made it to HERBS ETC. parking lot. Cleaned out the van While I waited.
She brought a BIG CAN!! I put some in...Got it going and was able to make it to the gas station!
What a weird experience. I mean that just does NOT happen very often. I was amazed at my attitude. I wasn't freakin out, just ...calm...
Thank you Terry!
I KNOW my van! nevertheless....a new twist develops.
I picked up students for Tae Kwon Do for class in Mt. Pleasant, as well as my two that are home (broken arm and all) and dropped them off at Finch Field house. Yes...It was still in the '90's!!
Decided I'd go get some gas while they were in class. The light had come on, but that means about 30 miles yet.
WRONG.
Right in the middle of Preston, putter stutter DIE. Called my mom...she didn't answer the phone. Called my brother..he was in Saginaw. He suggested I call my sister in law...which I did.
Meanwhile..it started..and I had to get what I thought was TWO blocks to the gas station...and I made it there...across from Arby's..AWQWCK!!! It was CLOSED..Not closed as in not open for business but RIPPED apart closed.
Called my SIL back, I made it to HERBS ETC. parking lot. Cleaned out the van While I waited.
She brought a BIG CAN!! I put some in...Got it going and was able to make it to the gas station!
What a weird experience. I mean that just does NOT happen very often. I was amazed at my attitude. I wasn't freakin out, just ...calm...
Thank you Terry!
Monday, July 30, 2007
Broken Arm
"I have fallen and been injured"....was the statement my girlfriend heard at the campground as I was dishin out sloppy joes to the non-discript Park Employee.
OH..Its YOUR kid! Joy...age 6, 2 hours into our camp stay, was climbing into the upper loft. She Fell off the ladder from about the 5th rung. SMACK, onto the concrete. She came out of the cabin, and the fleeting thought crossed my mind that I wouldn't be having any Lunch.
I grabbed stuff from the BIG first aid kit I had Debated about spending all of 2 dollars on at a yard sale, Ripped open sterile 4 x 4's and tried o stop the flow of running blood gushing from under her chin. SH*T! Yes she's going to need stiches I could tell at a glance.
"my arm hurts". Oh Crap. My ass did that tingley thing when you just KNOW something is wrong..I looked down AWWCKKK!!! So..>Got a STICK (Basic first aid) for a Splint..hey have to use what you can in a pinch, wrapped it, and took off.
Decided to go to Mt P to hospital as her dad was in MT. P working, they already had our file and stuff and her pediatrician is there.ER doc was ok...but dang it was SOOO SLOW. Way too slow. Wouldn't sew up her chin after getting her all geeked up about S-T-I-C-H-E-S...explained all about them...the shot all that..then leavers her for FOUR hours to think about it????. She was pretty amazing...ended up getting like 150 mg of Demerol at various times...and Never fell asleep..the fat guy next to us (Oh yah...it was so private! NOT)was given 50 mg of the same and was OUT of it puking his guts out.
The Ortho doctor showed up..Literally as the ER doc was sewing her up...and was trying to work on her..Like WAIT FIVE minutes you Jerk!! Then he copped an attitude and left the ER.
Joy has follow up on thursday to see if she has to have surgery or not to install pins
Had a meeting at school tonight. Everyone loves Joy..so she looked VERY cute in her TAE uniform with her broken arm and sling. She wanted me to make up a tee shirt that said, "I fell off a ladder while camping and got stiches and broke my arm in three places, Yes it hurts"...cause she got tired of saying it all the time!
OH..Its YOUR kid! Joy...age 6, 2 hours into our camp stay, was climbing into the upper loft. She Fell off the ladder from about the 5th rung. SMACK, onto the concrete. She came out of the cabin, and the fleeting thought crossed my mind that I wouldn't be having any Lunch.
I grabbed stuff from the BIG first aid kit I had Debated about spending all of 2 dollars on at a yard sale, Ripped open sterile 4 x 4's and tried o stop the flow of running blood gushing from under her chin. SH*T! Yes she's going to need stiches I could tell at a glance.
"my arm hurts". Oh Crap. My ass did that tingley thing when you just KNOW something is wrong..I looked down AWWCKKK!!! So..>Got a STICK (Basic first aid) for a Splint..hey have to use what you can in a pinch, wrapped it, and took off.
Decided to go to Mt P to hospital as her dad was in MT. P working, they already had our file and stuff and her pediatrician is there.ER doc was ok...but dang it was SOOO SLOW. Way too slow. Wouldn't sew up her chin after getting her all geeked up about S-T-I-C-H-E-S...explained all about them...the shot all that..then leavers her for FOUR hours to think about it????. She was pretty amazing...ended up getting like 150 mg of Demerol at various times...and Never fell asleep..the fat guy next to us (Oh yah...it was so private! NOT)was given 50 mg of the same and was OUT of it puking his guts out.
The Ortho doctor showed up..Literally as the ER doc was sewing her up...and was trying to work on her..Like WAIT FIVE minutes you Jerk!! Then he copped an attitude and left the ER.
Joy has follow up on thursday to see if she has to have surgery or not to install pins
Had a meeting at school tonight. Everyone loves Joy..so she looked VERY cute in her TAE uniform with her broken arm and sling. She wanted me to make up a tee shirt that said, "I fell off a ladder while camping and got stiches and broke my arm in three places, Yes it hurts"...cause she got tired of saying it all the time!
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
SO Much!
SO much has been going on,...I don't even know where to start!...I helped Helena start her blog this week. That has been a blast. She is so intelligent, smart, funny, self-starter, creative. Amazing kid.
Going Camping at School Section lake for next 3 days...will be home Friday...then I think I have to go to the Springs for the weekend or the next 10 days...LOL not sure.
Going Camping at School Section lake for next 3 days...will be home Friday...then I think I have to go to the Springs for the weekend or the next 10 days...LOL not sure.
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Abundance
Part of this "new" way of thinking..reminds me of the old bible school song
"He owns the cattle on a thousand hills
the wealth in Every mine
He owns the rivers and the rocks and rills,
the Sun and Stars that shine,
Wonderful riches more than tongue can tell
He is my Father so they're mine as well
He owns the cattle on a thousand hills I know that'
He Will care for ME".
I was looking at a website...(will have to refind), that talked about Great men of the bible...Abraham, King David...and the WEALTH they accumulated. I'm Really NOT trying to get into this "name it and claim" it type thinking..I'm just exploring here...talking out loud...imagining Mary P. or Ness, or Char, or someone I trust across from me with a cup of Coffee. Someone who will listen to me..and yet slap the crap out of me if I get too whacked.
Maybe it's because I am feeling SO MUCH BETTER since the recent surgery. I don't know. But I'm TIRED of being down in the mouth...feeling as if I have no options. Our Money management class has had unexpected side benefits. I think of What I do for my children--basically give up MY Life so they can live theirs--run them here, deliver them there, shell out money for Dance, Tae Kwon, drive two hours for practice etc. It reminds me of that verse, 8For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.
Matt. 7
9"Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? 10 Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? 11If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! 12So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets. If I..as crappy a mom as I am..would sacrifice what I have for MY children..Is HE..so much more holy...He gives out of ABUNDANCE..that's what I desire for MY children.
Not out of sacrifice..that leads to bitterness...
My one friend Char and I are discussing slowly "The Secret". Her take is correct..I would NOT recommend this maybe to a "baby" believer. There IS a lot of "pscho babble" in it. However..I am coming at it from an entirely different perspective. Pastor Robb made HUGE impact on my life when He said.."All TRUTH is GOD's TRUTH". ...I am discerning (I think) enough to sort through stuff, and grow.
I took Helena to an antique flea market (with M & M). While buying a Italian cook book for 3$$ (our latest inquiry into SOPRANO's)..I stated to the seller, "Ok..well I guess I can't live without this, so I have to buy it". The sellers son..jumped all me..."Oh that's GREAT thing you are teaching your daughter". This is a phrase that My mom and I use a lot while garage saleing. I said..."well I think it IS a good thing to teach..there are so VERY few things I desire/want.--I can live without anything..I choose what I want to buy.." anyway...Limited thinking. Sick of it. Concentrating now on..."I have come that they might have life, and have it more abundantly".
"He owns the cattle on a thousand hills
the wealth in Every mine
He owns the rivers and the rocks and rills,
the Sun and Stars that shine,
Wonderful riches more than tongue can tell
He is my Father so they're mine as well
He owns the cattle on a thousand hills I know that'
He Will care for ME".
I was looking at a website...(will have to refind), that talked about Great men of the bible...Abraham, King David...and the WEALTH they accumulated. I'm Really NOT trying to get into this "name it and claim" it type thinking..I'm just exploring here...talking out loud...imagining Mary P. or Ness, or Char, or someone I trust across from me with a cup of Coffee. Someone who will listen to me..and yet slap the crap out of me if I get too whacked.
Maybe it's because I am feeling SO MUCH BETTER since the recent surgery. I don't know. But I'm TIRED of being down in the mouth...feeling as if I have no options. Our Money management class has had unexpected side benefits. I think of What I do for my children--basically give up MY Life so they can live theirs--run them here, deliver them there, shell out money for Dance, Tae Kwon, drive two hours for practice etc. It reminds me of that verse, 8For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.
Matt. 7
9"Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? 10 Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? 11If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! 12So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets. If I..as crappy a mom as I am..would sacrifice what I have for MY children..Is HE..so much more holy...He gives out of ABUNDANCE..that's what I desire for MY children.
Not out of sacrifice..that leads to bitterness...
My one friend Char and I are discussing slowly "The Secret". Her take is correct..I would NOT recommend this maybe to a "baby" believer. There IS a lot of "pscho babble" in it. However..I am coming at it from an entirely different perspective. Pastor Robb made HUGE impact on my life when He said.."All TRUTH is GOD's TRUTH". ...I am discerning (I think) enough to sort through stuff, and grow.
I took Helena to an antique flea market (with M & M). While buying a Italian cook book for 3$$ (our latest inquiry into SOPRANO's)..I stated to the seller, "Ok..well I guess I can't live without this, so I have to buy it". The sellers son..jumped all me..."Oh that's GREAT thing you are teaching your daughter". This is a phrase that My mom and I use a lot while garage saleing. I said..."well I think it IS a good thing to teach..there are so VERY few things I desire/want.--I can live without anything..I choose what I want to buy.." anyway...Limited thinking. Sick of it. Concentrating now on..."I have come that they might have life, and have it more abundantly".
Friday, July 20, 2007
Volvo 850 Turbo!!
God gives good gifts to his children.
We went and looked at this car last week in Ann Arbor. We went and Picked it up today!!
Don was squeemish about it..literally said, "I can't SEE myself driving this". I told him that day..."I can SEE you driving it". Literally. Saw him transporting the urchins to school etc..saw him happy to have a decent vehicle.
I called him earlier this week While I was away...and told him HE needed to change his attitude toward the car. To envision his hands wrapped around the steering wheel, to see himself fiddling with the controls etc.
Part of our "managing money god's way" class the last session, was to talk about how God..the loving Father, gives GOOD gifts to his children. We don't have to be Down and out...white trash Baptistic Christians who think poor is equivalent to godliness.I'm So DONE with that thinking. We are very generous..give out of abundance..not out of Sacrifice. We are not greedy..yet have a tendency to think we don't deserve nice things. This is a direct result of taking care of what WE ALREADY HAVE, and being thankful for IT!
I'm so happy to SEE him driving a better car. Its a 1996, turbo, champagne color...really nice.
The Secret...book What I'm reading
Get it...read it.
Let me know what you are thinking. Great websites on it...Wondering.
I think "the Secret" works,,,because it is based on Biblical example.
"As a man thinks, so is he"
"I have come that they might have life, and have it MORE Abundantly"
"if you say to that mountain MOVE...it shall be done"
"every good gift, and every perfect gift, comes from the Father above in whom no changing occurs"
The parable of the dad...giving a stone to his child when they requested bread.
Let me know what you are thinking. Great websites on it...Wondering.
I think "the Secret" works,,,because it is based on Biblical example.
"As a man thinks, so is he"
"I have come that they might have life, and have it MORE Abundantly"
"if you say to that mountain MOVE...it shall be done"
"every good gift, and every perfect gift, comes from the Father above in whom no changing occurs"
The parable of the dad...giving a stone to his child when they requested bread.
Monday, July 16, 2007
Camp
It's just amazing to me how much easier it is to oh...say cook for 20 or so..when you have the right kitchen.
I love the Camp kitchen (in the conference center)...huge ovens, great sheet pans that I use for EVERYTHING. Food..mass quantities!
I got up to camp yesterday...just assessing stuff VERY EARLY IN THE MORNIGN TO BE DRIVING......when I find out instead of a 10:30 breakfast..OH its NINE O'clock. Yikes...that was scary at first. Martha was there to save the day and walked me through everything. Really all they needed was a warm body to cook, so the crew could go do a presentation at a church. That's really cool...when you can do something..to free someone else up to do God stuff. Both are blessed.
This was for a family reunion...What a wonderful idea! The Matriarch had died last year, and this was the first visit home for the Patriarch since the death..and they didn't have room at any ONE person's house so they came to the retreat center! Great idea---food cooked for you, room to move around...they LOVED their visit.
Martha asked.."WHere are the kids"?????...as I had left them home to recuperate...from Sat's great adventure, "Well isn't WILLIAM coming to SR high camp this week???"...OOPS..I guess since my surgery I"ve been sort of OUT OF IT..so...had to call in Heavy Kevvy to save the day, go from his place in Midland, pick my kids up, tell Wiliam (with extensive help from Helena) what to pack, Then Kev brought kids up to camp. Thank God for loving friends who help out without asking or expecting anything. Kev says.."CALM DOWN"...lol because a little panic was seeping into my voice. ,...I simply can't believe I forgot about camp...even tho is was the 2nd week etc...
GO God
I love the Camp kitchen (in the conference center)...huge ovens, great sheet pans that I use for EVERYTHING. Food..mass quantities!
I got up to camp yesterday...just assessing stuff VERY EARLY IN THE MORNIGN TO BE DRIVING......when I find out instead of a 10:30 breakfast..OH its NINE O'clock. Yikes...that was scary at first. Martha was there to save the day and walked me through everything. Really all they needed was a warm body to cook, so the crew could go do a presentation at a church. That's really cool...when you can do something..to free someone else up to do God stuff. Both are blessed.
This was for a family reunion...What a wonderful idea! The Matriarch had died last year, and this was the first visit home for the Patriarch since the death..and they didn't have room at any ONE person's house so they came to the retreat center! Great idea---food cooked for you, room to move around...they LOVED their visit.
Martha asked.."WHere are the kids"?????...as I had left them home to recuperate...from Sat's great adventure, "Well isn't WILLIAM coming to SR high camp this week???"...OOPS..I guess since my surgery I"ve been sort of OUT OF IT..so...had to call in Heavy Kevvy to save the day, go from his place in Midland, pick my kids up, tell Wiliam (with extensive help from Helena) what to pack, Then Kev brought kids up to camp. Thank God for loving friends who help out without asking or expecting anything. Kev says.."CALM DOWN"...lol because a little panic was seeping into my voice. ,...I simply can't believe I forgot about camp...even tho is was the 2nd week etc...
GO God
Saturday, July 14, 2007
Pretty much a perfect summer day
I have to get up in 5 hours to go work at camp, but THIS...was the perfect day....dropped one kid off at Grandma's, got stuff for picnic, snoozed while someone else drove, 3 older kids getting along...Museum, funny!! laughing....taking Pictures of my SHADOW!......picnic, feeding ducks, River walk, Pouring rain, summer sun, Mall...read books, good coffee, Harry Potter in 3-D, pizza at Deluca's Intro friends to the Wii.
yum yum.
great day.
yum yum.
great day.
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Depression, Sayings, and MORE
I was writing recently to a friend, and came up with what I thought was a GREAT phrase to describe the lethargy and post surgical funk I'm in..." It's No Christmas morning in Whoville in my head" !! HA! I love that!
Reminds me of the saying My School Admin friend Kathy says,about stupid thoughts, people you can't get over or remain Ticked at etc..."Hey! You are just providing them FREE rent in your head"
"Get OVER it already"
"Bring a different bus into the depot please"...When someone keeps complaining over and over about the same thing refusing to do anything about it.
Any more to add??
....
Reminds me of the saying My School Admin friend Kathy says,about stupid thoughts, people you can't get over or remain Ticked at etc..."Hey! You are just providing them FREE rent in your head"
"Get OVER it already"
"Bring a different bus into the depot please"...When someone keeps complaining over and over about the same thing refusing to do anything about it.
Any more to add??
....
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Russia Renews Adoption Licenses
Russia renews adoption agencies' licenses
Updated 2h 18m ago | Comment | Recommend E-mail | Save | Print | Reprints & Permissions | Subscribe to stories like this
By Wendy Koch, USA TODAY
Russia has reopened its doors to Americans who want to adopt children, re-accrediting seven adoption agencies based in the USA.
Licenses granted in the past two weeks will enable the agencies to resume helping Americans adopt from among the 700,000 Russian children in orphanages, says Lee Allen, spokesman for the private National Council For Adoption.
As many as 44 American agencies had been working in Russia, he says.
"This is the first positive movement we've seen in a long time," Allen says. "We're very encouraged by it."
Russia has been a top destination for Americans seeking to adopt foreign children, ranking third behind China and Guatemala in 2006, according to the State Department.
FIND MORE STORIES IN: Americans | Russia | Russian | Allen
Last year, 3,706 Russian adoptees came to the USA, a decline from a peak of 5,865 in 2004.
The number of adoptions began slowing last year as the annual licenses of American agencies started to expire.
The last two licenses expired in April, according to the website of Russia's Washington, D.C., embassy.
The agencies applied for renewal as Russia implemented tighter rules.
Most adoptions were put on hold, although some independently arranged ones proceeded.
"Many thousands of kids may have lost their opportunity" to be adopted when licenses expired, Allen says.
The new licenses have no expiration date but can be reconsidered at any time.
The Russian government did not respond to requests for comment.
"We have some people who've been waiting" to adopt, says John Bentz, president of International Assistance Group in Oakmont, Pa., one of the first seven American adoption agencies to win reapproval. "It will take some time."
"There are plenty of kids who need homes," says Joan Jaeger, spokeswoman for The Cradle in Evanston, Ill., one of the agencies re-accredited.
She says placing a child with an American family can take up to a year. She says the cost is comparable to domestic adoption: about $30,000, including two trips to Russia.
The other agencies re-accredited are Cradle of Hope in Silver Spring, Md.; The Frank Adoption Center in Raleigh, N.C.; Family and Children's Agency in Norwalk, Conn; Catholic Social Services, which is nationwide; and Children's Home Society & Family Services in St. Paul.
Posted 18h 22m ago
Updated 2h 18m ago | Comment | Recommend E-mail | Save | Print | Reprints & Permissions | Subscribe to stories like this
By Wendy Koch, USA TODAY
Russia has reopened its doors to Americans who want to adopt children, re-accrediting seven adoption agencies based in the USA.
Licenses granted in the past two weeks will enable the agencies to resume helping Americans adopt from among the 700,000 Russian children in orphanages, says Lee Allen, spokesman for the private National Council For Adoption.
As many as 44 American agencies had been working in Russia, he says.
"This is the first positive movement we've seen in a long time," Allen says. "We're very encouraged by it."
Russia has been a top destination for Americans seeking to adopt foreign children, ranking third behind China and Guatemala in 2006, according to the State Department.
FIND MORE STORIES IN: Americans | Russia | Russian | Allen
Last year, 3,706 Russian adoptees came to the USA, a decline from a peak of 5,865 in 2004.
The number of adoptions began slowing last year as the annual licenses of American agencies started to expire.
The last two licenses expired in April, according to the website of Russia's Washington, D.C., embassy.
The agencies applied for renewal as Russia implemented tighter rules.
Most adoptions were put on hold, although some independently arranged ones proceeded.
"Many thousands of kids may have lost their opportunity" to be adopted when licenses expired, Allen says.
The new licenses have no expiration date but can be reconsidered at any time.
The Russian government did not respond to requests for comment.
"We have some people who've been waiting" to adopt, says John Bentz, president of International Assistance Group in Oakmont, Pa., one of the first seven American adoption agencies to win reapproval. "It will take some time."
"There are plenty of kids who need homes," says Joan Jaeger, spokeswoman for The Cradle in Evanston, Ill., one of the agencies re-accredited.
She says placing a child with an American family can take up to a year. She says the cost is comparable to domestic adoption: about $30,000, including two trips to Russia.
The other agencies re-accredited are Cradle of Hope in Silver Spring, Md.; The Frank Adoption Center in Raleigh, N.C.; Family and Children's Agency in Norwalk, Conn; Catholic Social Services, which is nationwide; and Children's Home Society & Family Services in St. Paul.
Posted 18h 22m ago
D-I-V-O-R-C-E
Divorce sucks, or Sux in today's lingo.
I've got several friends in the midst of it, thinking about it, or trying to avoid it.
Scenario: Gees..this is going to be harder than I thought to keep it somewhat confidential...
Friend is miserable...partner an idiot. Oh--so not creative..that sums up 99% of how someone getting divorced feels. Friend feels partner is putting work in front of Sfamily. Partner has issues, somewhat depressed...workaholic tendency. Both of them are friends of mine. YAH. Sticky. Have tried to intervene...really don't know what my place is.
Can I be biblical and be supportive of change?
Can I be a True and Faithful friend while they seek greener pastures? (so to speak)..
Am I supposed to cut them off, or be a safe place for them to talk?
What would I WANT? What Would I NEED in this situation?
I've 'Been there and done that' as my profile states. Married Young to a Devote "fellow believer" dedicating ourselves and future to God's plan. Yah...that didn't work out well either time I married the same guy. Yes, for those of you seeing it here for the first time...I am one of those...who although I KNEW I was right the first time in getting divorced, let the guy snake back in his wormy way, married and divorced again within a year. Grateful for the learning curve being done quickly--and know I was right the first time. He went on to cheat on his new wifey in much the same way he left me for her.
I was Completely deserted from all my Christian friends. I swore I would never do that to a friend. The Church...the Pastor...the only time I heard from the pastor was months and months later when I started attending a different church and he was concerned about that. He NEVER once called me to see how I was doing--I had moved back in to my mom's after he assured me that God would STILL love me if I were divorced. Wow. What a wacked out way of thinking...
I have no regrets. Made it on my own..actually BETTER on my own.
I'm amazed at how that works.
Scenario: My friend in Midland, says...when his wife split, leaving him to raise his 3 sons, says.."her leaving left as much impact as pulling your finger out of a glass of water". Wow. That's really sad isn't it? For a mom to have such little influence in the running of the household, the boys didn't notice for a few weeks that she had LEFT!! He deserves a medal.
Scenario: My other friend...is is middle of process...wife has moved in and out so many times it isn't even news anymore. He's doing a great job providing stability for his teen daughter in the midst of it all. Works, parents-actively..and is just stuck.
Scenario: There always seems to be one more. I'm tired of it. I bounce ideas around in my head.
I think I am going to have to write about this some more.
I still have too many to write about.
I've got several friends in the midst of it, thinking about it, or trying to avoid it.
Scenario: Gees..this is going to be harder than I thought to keep it somewhat confidential...
Friend is miserable...partner an idiot. Oh--so not creative..that sums up 99% of how someone getting divorced feels. Friend feels partner is putting work in front of Sfamily. Partner has issues, somewhat depressed...workaholic tendency. Both of them are friends of mine. YAH. Sticky. Have tried to intervene...really don't know what my place is.
Can I be biblical and be supportive of change?
Can I be a True and Faithful friend while they seek greener pastures? (so to speak)..
Am I supposed to cut them off, or be a safe place for them to talk?
What would I WANT? What Would I NEED in this situation?
I've 'Been there and done that' as my profile states. Married Young to a Devote "fellow believer" dedicating ourselves and future to God's plan. Yah...that didn't work out well either time I married the same guy. Yes, for those of you seeing it here for the first time...I am one of those...who although I KNEW I was right the first time in getting divorced, let the guy snake back in his wormy way, married and divorced again within a year. Grateful for the learning curve being done quickly--and know I was right the first time. He went on to cheat on his new wifey in much the same way he left me for her.
I was Completely deserted from all my Christian friends. I swore I would never do that to a friend. The Church...the Pastor...the only time I heard from the pastor was months and months later when I started attending a different church and he was concerned about that. He NEVER once called me to see how I was doing--I had moved back in to my mom's after he assured me that God would STILL love me if I were divorced. Wow. What a wacked out way of thinking...
I have no regrets. Made it on my own..actually BETTER on my own.
I'm amazed at how that works.
Scenario: My friend in Midland, says...when his wife split, leaving him to raise his 3 sons, says.."her leaving left as much impact as pulling your finger out of a glass of water". Wow. That's really sad isn't it? For a mom to have such little influence in the running of the household, the boys didn't notice for a few weeks that she had LEFT!! He deserves a medal.
Scenario: My other friend...is is middle of process...wife has moved in and out so many times it isn't even news anymore. He's doing a great job providing stability for his teen daughter in the midst of it all. Works, parents-actively..and is just stuck.
Scenario: There always seems to be one more. I'm tired of it. I bounce ideas around in my head.
I think I am going to have to write about this some more.
I still have too many to write about.
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
God in Nature
I sit at my desk this morning in awe of how cool animals are. I get why zoos are so popular.
At first, there was one small fawn out at the side of the woods munching on the farmers tender shoots. He was Full profile, and I could watch as he bent his head. His slender small body intent on eating was a testament to survival. My young daughter came, and stood at the door, mesmerized by each bite. "Mommy, he is eating now. Mommy he is swallowing now" Yes Joy..all that.
Then she left, and I was amazed as his twin joined him! We know of these animals as several weeks ago, William and his buddy went out to the woods, and in came the high schooler carrying a FAWN! GO put him Back!!..."He's TOO weak" they said..he didn't MOVE!"...when, they placed fawny on the ground he Scooted back to his mom fearfully observing from the middle of the woods. A few nights later, we were happy to see not JUST mom and fawn, but Mom, Fawn + one...a twin.
cool.
Between that, the chickens + rooster, and our two new kitties, we have a lot of entertainment and "God in Nature".
Personally, I'm getting sick of God in Rooster at Daybreak. Not so glorious.
At first, there was one small fawn out at the side of the woods munching on the farmers tender shoots. He was Full profile, and I could watch as he bent his head. His slender small body intent on eating was a testament to survival. My young daughter came, and stood at the door, mesmerized by each bite. "Mommy, he is eating now. Mommy he is swallowing now" Yes Joy..all that.
Then she left, and I was amazed as his twin joined him! We know of these animals as several weeks ago, William and his buddy went out to the woods, and in came the high schooler carrying a FAWN! GO put him Back!!..."He's TOO weak" they said..he didn't MOVE!"...when, they placed fawny on the ground he Scooted back to his mom fearfully observing from the middle of the woods. A few nights later, we were happy to see not JUST mom and fawn, but Mom, Fawn + one...a twin.
cool.
Between that, the chickens + rooster, and our two new kitties, we have a lot of entertainment and "God in Nature".
Personally, I'm getting sick of God in Rooster at Daybreak. Not so glorious.
Sunday, July 08, 2007
Mental Confusion....HA there's a REASON!
Complications of Acute Cholecystitis (gallbladder)
The most serious complication of acute cholecystitis is infection, which develops in about 20% of cases. It is extremely dangerous and life threatening if it spreads to other parts of the body ( septicemia ). Symptoms include fever, rapid heartbeat, fast breathing, and mental confusion. Among the conditions that can lead to septicemia are the following:
* Gangrene or Abscesses. If acute cholecystitis is untreated and becomes very severe, inflammation can cause abscesses or destroy enough tissue in the gallbladder (called necrosis ) to lead to gangrene. Studies have reported this complication in between 2 - 30% of cases. The highest risk is in men over 50 with a history of heart disease who have high levels of infection.
The most serious complication of acute cholecystitis is infection, which develops in about 20% of cases. It is extremely dangerous and life threatening if it spreads to other parts of the body ( septicemia ). Symptoms include fever, rapid heartbeat, fast breathing, and mental confusion. Among the conditions that can lead to septicemia are the following:
* Gangrene or Abscesses. If acute cholecystitis is untreated and becomes very severe, inflammation can cause abscesses or destroy enough tissue in the gallbladder (called necrosis ) to lead to gangrene. Studies have reported this complication in between 2 - 30% of cases. The highest risk is in men over 50 with a history of heart disease who have high levels of infection.
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