3.25.2007
Spirit Fingers for Winthrop!
This was just before the Notre Dame game. I had on red pants and red shoes even. It was a blast to see the game live...
3.15.2007
A Gator, a Hydrant, and an Old Navy Truck
Near Post Falls, Idaho...the same yard full of stuff...there was so much stuff to see!
More Lake Coeur d'Alene
The sign on the lifeguard stand told us to swim at our own risk...no lifeguard on duty.
Good thing I was dissuaded by the 30-degree temperatures. I can imagine this place is LOVELY in the summer!
Good thing I was dissuaded by the 30-degree temperatures. I can imagine this place is LOVELY in the summer!
Idaho rocks.
At Lake Coeur d'Alene in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. I'm very happy about being in Idaho, apparently.
Idaho Wildlife
The Wildlife in Idaho was breath-taking. I mean, look how close I got to this buffalo!
Idaho Industrial Park
The Spirit Lake, Idaho Industrial Park. I really think this pared down idea of the industrial park is going to take off...
Idaho Fun
Another shot in the yard/junk store/sculpture garden...Notice the snow-covered mountain in the background!
Full of Bull in Idaho...
Random yard full of stuff for sale...but no one around...so I took pictures. This bull was made of metal, and I have no idea how it was upright on its front two feet!
3.14.2007
March Madness
OK, so I got a call Monday at lunch and was invited to go along with the Winthrop Eagles to Spokane, Washington, for the NCAA tournament first round...and if we win...we'll stay for second round. So I write this from Washington state sometime on Wednesday! How crazy is this!
So, cheer for the little Winthrop Eagles as we take on Notre Dame at 2:30 Friday. GO EAGLES!!!! Beat the Fighting Irish (the day before St. Patty's). I'm here at least through Saturday, possibly Monday if we win.
This is all so very cool. I had noooo idea I'd be included in this fun. Tomorrow we go to Mount Spokane and around the city. I'll post pictures. Apparently I'm just yards away from the world's largest red wagon...that excites me. :)
Here are some notes I wrote on the way here whilst bored and feeling literary:
Hanging Hopes on Tall Shoulders
It's restless on the airplane as over a hundred of us have been up since before the sunrise, excited…expectant…and now weary from traveling across the country to watch our favorite basketball players live up to monumental media hype. The tall guys in black warm-up suits show no signs of nervousness, taking this trip to Spokane, WA, in stride as though trips to the NCAA tournament happen every day.
Flight delays, no food—save pretzels in various forms—and no in-flight entertainment. But I shall not complain. Outside my window I catch glimpses of snow-covered Rocky-Mountain-tops and vast valleys. My little Winthrop in the Big Dance again. And somehow, I've been thrust into a mini-drama of epic proportions, picked out of a veritable hat to accompany the team and a small group of fans. We're garbed up in various hats, shirts, stickers—anything to prove we're good fans of the Cinderella Eagles of 2007. I hope our little drama ends with high fives and hugs and a few more days in Themiddleofnowhere, Washington. Well, maybe that's unfair. I've never been to Spokane, but I wouldn't mind to stay until Sunday and watch Winthrop take on yet another opponent. I'm just a measly staff member and an alumnus, but I feel like I'm living in an "against all odds" Disney sports flick. March Madness to be sure.
So, cheer for the little Winthrop Eagles as we take on Notre Dame at 2:30 Friday. GO EAGLES!!!! Beat the Fighting Irish (the day before St. Patty's). I'm here at least through Saturday, possibly Monday if we win.
This is all so very cool. I had noooo idea I'd be included in this fun. Tomorrow we go to Mount Spokane and around the city. I'll post pictures. Apparently I'm just yards away from the world's largest red wagon...that excites me. :)
Here are some notes I wrote on the way here whilst bored and feeling literary:
Hanging Hopes on Tall Shoulders
It's restless on the airplane as over a hundred of us have been up since before the sunrise, excited…expectant…and now weary from traveling across the country to watch our favorite basketball players live up to monumental media hype. The tall guys in black warm-up suits show no signs of nervousness, taking this trip to Spokane, WA, in stride as though trips to the NCAA tournament happen every day.
Flight delays, no food—save pretzels in various forms—and no in-flight entertainment. But I shall not complain. Outside my window I catch glimpses of snow-covered Rocky-Mountain-tops and vast valleys. My little Winthrop in the Big Dance again. And somehow, I've been thrust into a mini-drama of epic proportions, picked out of a veritable hat to accompany the team and a small group of fans. We're garbed up in various hats, shirts, stickers—anything to prove we're good fans of the Cinderella Eagles of 2007. I hope our little drama ends with high fives and hugs and a few more days in Themiddleofnowhere, Washington. Well, maybe that's unfair. I've never been to Spokane, but I wouldn't mind to stay until Sunday and watch Winthrop take on yet another opponent. I'm just a measly staff member and an alumnus, but I feel like I'm living in an "against all odds" Disney sports flick. March Madness to be sure.
3.08.2007
Amazing Grace...how sweet the movie
I saw a preview of AMAZING GRACE a few months back and thought it looked really good...we saw it tonight. The story itself really overtakes the movie itself if that makes any sense. Certainly there were just a handful of parts that seemed heavy-handed on sentimentalism...but by the end, you just didn't care. Bring out the marching bands, the banners, whatever it took! It's a movie about one man's passion for humanity and equality. It's about the fight to abolish slavery in England, but also about having determination to fight a system utterly flawed. Well done overall, well acted and executed. It's an even slow pace, but it lent itself well to the theme of perserverance. It's "Amistad" lite. If you haven't seen "Amistad," then shame on you. And then I wonder, "what will be the 'slavery' of our time?" What will future generations look back upon and wonder how WE let it happen? AIDS pandemic in Africa, homelessness, human trafficking. Yes, yes, and yes most likely. What if there are no future generations because we wrecked the planet? Just thoughts.
And John Mayer is an idiot, because while he writes songs like "waiting on the world to change," people like Bono are using their God-given platform of fame to actually CHANGE the world. Get off your high (and I don't mean high horse), John Mayer, and do something. (aside: I like his music, especially "Continuum," but that song drives me up a wall!)
And now that I'm being self-righteous, I shall turn the pointing finger...what am I doing to change the world? I'm living a smaller life than the one I imagined for myself. I don't know yet if that's good or bad. My heart is to help, but I feel trapped by the 9 to 5-ness of the work week. And so I try to live with integrity, doing the small things I can...and praying for opportunities to contribute in some meaningful way to those who are hopeless and helpless. What is God stirring in my heart?
Go see "Amazing Grace" if for no other reason than to support a film that does not glorify dysfunction, alcoholism, death/destruction, violence, and moral decay. At the least it is educational, as it is based on a true story. At the most, it will help you ask yourself..."what is my God-given passion, and how can I see it through?"
And John Mayer is an idiot, because while he writes songs like "waiting on the world to change," people like Bono are using their God-given platform of fame to actually CHANGE the world. Get off your high (and I don't mean high horse), John Mayer, and do something. (aside: I like his music, especially "Continuum," but that song drives me up a wall!)
And now that I'm being self-righteous, I shall turn the pointing finger...what am I doing to change the world? I'm living a smaller life than the one I imagined for myself. I don't know yet if that's good or bad. My heart is to help, but I feel trapped by the 9 to 5-ness of the work week. And so I try to live with integrity, doing the small things I can...and praying for opportunities to contribute in some meaningful way to those who are hopeless and helpless. What is God stirring in my heart?
Go see "Amazing Grace" if for no other reason than to support a film that does not glorify dysfunction, alcoholism, death/destruction, violence, and moral decay. At the least it is educational, as it is based on a true story. At the most, it will help you ask yourself..."what is my God-given passion, and how can I see it through?"
3.05.2007
A Blog from February 3...Sin, Passion, Politics, and Jesus
Oh the things that have been swirling in my head in the past few weeks. Sometimes it just helps to "put them down on paper," so to speak, in order to make some sense of them.
So, this one is more for me...if you're interested, feel free to read...but I just need to clear a bit of head room (that made me think of Max Headroom for those of us in our 30's...you'll know what I mean) to make space for some new and exciting thoughts.
A bit of a spiritual journey...
Earlier this week I emailed an old high school friend with a very quick, bullet-point synopsis of my life since HS graduation...one of the things I included was a relatively recent church change and the radical re-formation of my faith that I have undergone in the last few years. I've been a Christian since I was six, and have been blessed to never have strayed from the faith--not that I haven't questioned nearly everything about it at some point--but I've always sensed God's presence in my life and have had a deep knowledge that He loved me and that I was loved by Him. It's something that really can't be explained in words. (even though I just tried! ha)
So, I've been through many phases of my Christian faith--the teenage radical bring-your-Bible-to-school and preach to people phase, the college sorting-out of exactly what I believe vs. what I've been told to believe phase, the judgmental everyone-is-sinning-and-I'm-not phase (which in and of itself is sin enough--yes I see that now), and now the a compassionate, holistic phase.
A horrible nutshell of my faith progression, as things like this are never really nutshellable, but whatever...gives you (if you're still reading) and me an idea of my journey.
My friend replied to my email (I paraphrase somewhat) "Glad to see you are experiencing a more laid back Christianity..." What an interesting perspective. Because I feel more alive to my faith now than ever before, but the way I want to act upon it and make it known are radically different.
More history (I know, soooo exciting!)...I was a member of the STATE board of the Teenage Republicans and a devout conservative in high school. My leanings will certainly always be in that direction, but I am more and more convinced that Christianity supercedes government. The ideals of my faith are so much BIGGER than government. My government is not a faith-based organization, and thus, I cannot reasonably expect it to "act" in Christian ways. I cannot expect "Christian" legislation or moral behavior from a system that does not ascribe to Christianity. Politicians are almost all swayed more by pols and voting blocks than their own personal sense of faith or morality. It's just the way the system is set up. So, while I believe in the preservation of "family values," I believe that it is MY responsibility to live those out. I should vote because it is my duty to learn about and support candidates who might reflect some of the things I stand for...but I will NEVER picket or lobby or beg some government official to legislate morality. Abortion is a travesty, and I am passionately pro-life...but I would be more effective counseling pregnant girls on their options than I would ever be throwing rocks at doctors or screaming at anyone.
(Ooooh, I'm starting to rant) Additionally, while I'm on the topic...Republicans and Democrats...who's to say which one is more "moral" or "Christian?" Some might say, "Well Republicans are pro-life and pro-family..." Well, we had a Republican President and a Republican-controlled Congress for several years...was there anything overturned???? And since when is the Democratic idea of feeding/clothing poor people and improving education LESS Christian than preventing abortion? Jesus talked a lot about helping the poor. And finally, what about the CHURCH? If we did more feeding and clothing and less lobbying, picketing, and hating...wouldn't we impact the world more? Governments rise and fall, but an act done in the name and compassion of Jesus will stand.
Next...I was for years involved in a situation that focused almost entirely on sin--not sinning, who was sinning, what should happen to people who were sinning, and the choir members who could see everyone telling us all who was sitting out there and sinning...SIN SIN SIN. Certainly it is something that should be dealt with in the life of every Believer/Christian. But to continually focus on it is completely unhealthy...and if you already tend toward the idealistic and/or judgmental (as I do--see! confession)...you can get caught in a spiral of being everyone else's sin watch-dog. And since when did the Bible ever say that we are to convict people about their sins? That is the job of God (the Holy Spirit specifically). And when did the Bible ever say that we are to condemn people for their sins? That is Satan's forte. Our job is to help other Christians in their walk, by lovingly addressing and bringing their sin to them after much prayer...and then restore them to the faith. But our job with non-believers is simply to LOVE them...wherever they are...and by whatever means they are there. Drug addicts, prostitutes, AIDS victims, homeless, wife-beaters, and the list goes on and on. When did the church quit loving people and start beating them up for doing what unbelievers do? The Bible clearly says "They will know we are Christians by our LOVE." Love was the sole identifying factor. It seems today that most people know we are Christians by the way we condemn everything that's not like us, or by our screaming/demanding, or by our holier-than-thou attitudes.
So, more than ever, I am not laid back about my faith...but instead of looking to Republicans, Democrats, or everyone else to get up and do something...I am praying about and doing the things that Jesus commanded. The New Testament church was involved in community and fellowship with other believers, loving their extended community through service with no strings attached, breaking bread with one another (yes!), worship, and prayer. People who seem the most lost or the most unlike me can provide huge opportunities for love.
And randomly, I will add...I was very challenged last week to think about our planet. Our Pastor delivered one of the most beautiful sermons I've ever heard on the way that God created the earth and how He intended it to run. Most startling in the list was that God gave the earth to man to "serve and protect" it. He created it, and gave it to US to protect it. So, more than anyone...Christians have a DUTY to step up and be the biggest tree-huggers out there. I'm not sure what all that will mean for me just yet...I recycle, I conserve energy...but I really want to discover what else I can do. I want to take my duty seriously. (Hmmm...most people associate environmentalists with Democrats, don't they? See how the lines begin blurring when you take a whole approach to faith????)
In closing (I know, it's been long...and if you're still with me...BRAVO!)...my faith is personal, but not private. I'm called to live it out with everyone around me in different ways, responding to each person I meet appropriately--rejoicing with those who rejoice, and mourning with those who mourn. Encouraging, feeding, clothing, protecting...I should worship with everything I do...reflecting the glory of God by maintaining His beautiful Creation--which is a reflection of His attention to detail and care for us. Mostly, I am being challenged to act upon my convictions. I still don't know how all of this will work itself out in "real life," but I know that I am less laid back than ever and more inclined to stretch myself to love, to accept, and to serve. That is what worshipping God with my life means. It means reflecting Him and giving Him glory every moment of every day.
Whew. My brain is tired. And a little emptier. But my soul is singing. Can you hear it?
Goodnight.
for more on the sermon: "The Story of God: Being Human" (From 1/29/07) that inspired some of this... www.renovatuscommunity.com
ENTER, Then go to MEDIA and LISTEN
You can get a free podcast on itunes or listen to it in the archive (the podcast is up...the archive should have it in a few days). It's an hour long...our pastor is long-winded like I am!!! :) One of the best sermons I've ever heard...he even espoused the idea that we were born to live naked...but you'll have to listen to find out all about that. hee hee hee.
So, this one is more for me...if you're interested, feel free to read...but I just need to clear a bit of head room (that made me think of Max Headroom for those of us in our 30's...you'll know what I mean) to make space for some new and exciting thoughts.
A bit of a spiritual journey...
Earlier this week I emailed an old high school friend with a very quick, bullet-point synopsis of my life since HS graduation...one of the things I included was a relatively recent church change and the radical re-formation of my faith that I have undergone in the last few years. I've been a Christian since I was six, and have been blessed to never have strayed from the faith--not that I haven't questioned nearly everything about it at some point--but I've always sensed God's presence in my life and have had a deep knowledge that He loved me and that I was loved by Him. It's something that really can't be explained in words. (even though I just tried! ha)
So, I've been through many phases of my Christian faith--the teenage radical bring-your-Bible-to-school and preach to people phase, the college sorting-out of exactly what I believe vs. what I've been told to believe phase, the judgmental everyone-is-sinning-and-I'm-not phase (which in and of itself is sin enough--yes I see that now), and now the a compassionate, holistic phase.
A horrible nutshell of my faith progression, as things like this are never really nutshellable, but whatever...gives you (if you're still reading) and me an idea of my journey.
My friend replied to my email (I paraphrase somewhat) "Glad to see you are experiencing a more laid back Christianity..." What an interesting perspective. Because I feel more alive to my faith now than ever before, but the way I want to act upon it and make it known are radically different.
More history (I know, soooo exciting!)...I was a member of the STATE board of the Teenage Republicans and a devout conservative in high school. My leanings will certainly always be in that direction, but I am more and more convinced that Christianity supercedes government. The ideals of my faith are so much BIGGER than government. My government is not a faith-based organization, and thus, I cannot reasonably expect it to "act" in Christian ways. I cannot expect "Christian" legislation or moral behavior from a system that does not ascribe to Christianity. Politicians are almost all swayed more by pols and voting blocks than their own personal sense of faith or morality. It's just the way the system is set up. So, while I believe in the preservation of "family values," I believe that it is MY responsibility to live those out. I should vote because it is my duty to learn about and support candidates who might reflect some of the things I stand for...but I will NEVER picket or lobby or beg some government official to legislate morality. Abortion is a travesty, and I am passionately pro-life...but I would be more effective counseling pregnant girls on their options than I would ever be throwing rocks at doctors or screaming at anyone.
(Ooooh, I'm starting to rant) Additionally, while I'm on the topic...Republicans and Democrats...who's to say which one is more "moral" or "Christian?" Some might say, "Well Republicans are pro-life and pro-family..." Well, we had a Republican President and a Republican-controlled Congress for several years...was there anything overturned???? And since when is the Democratic idea of feeding/clothing poor people and improving education LESS Christian than preventing abortion? Jesus talked a lot about helping the poor. And finally, what about the CHURCH? If we did more feeding and clothing and less lobbying, picketing, and hating...wouldn't we impact the world more? Governments rise and fall, but an act done in the name and compassion of Jesus will stand.
Next...I was for years involved in a situation that focused almost entirely on sin--not sinning, who was sinning, what should happen to people who were sinning, and the choir members who could see everyone telling us all who was sitting out there and sinning...SIN SIN SIN. Certainly it is something that should be dealt with in the life of every Believer/Christian. But to continually focus on it is completely unhealthy...and if you already tend toward the idealistic and/or judgmental (as I do--see! confession)...you can get caught in a spiral of being everyone else's sin watch-dog. And since when did the Bible ever say that we are to convict people about their sins? That is the job of God (the Holy Spirit specifically). And when did the Bible ever say that we are to condemn people for their sins? That is Satan's forte. Our job is to help other Christians in their walk, by lovingly addressing and bringing their sin to them after much prayer...and then restore them to the faith. But our job with non-believers is simply to LOVE them...wherever they are...and by whatever means they are there. Drug addicts, prostitutes, AIDS victims, homeless, wife-beaters, and the list goes on and on. When did the church quit loving people and start beating them up for doing what unbelievers do? The Bible clearly says "They will know we are Christians by our LOVE." Love was the sole identifying factor. It seems today that most people know we are Christians by the way we condemn everything that's not like us, or by our screaming/demanding, or by our holier-than-thou attitudes.
So, more than ever, I am not laid back about my faith...but instead of looking to Republicans, Democrats, or everyone else to get up and do something...I am praying about and doing the things that Jesus commanded. The New Testament church was involved in community and fellowship with other believers, loving their extended community through service with no strings attached, breaking bread with one another (yes!), worship, and prayer. People who seem the most lost or the most unlike me can provide huge opportunities for love.
And randomly, I will add...I was very challenged last week to think about our planet. Our Pastor delivered one of the most beautiful sermons I've ever heard on the way that God created the earth and how He intended it to run. Most startling in the list was that God gave the earth to man to "serve and protect" it. He created it, and gave it to US to protect it. So, more than anyone...Christians have a DUTY to step up and be the biggest tree-huggers out there. I'm not sure what all that will mean for me just yet...I recycle, I conserve energy...but I really want to discover what else I can do. I want to take my duty seriously. (Hmmm...most people associate environmentalists with Democrats, don't they? See how the lines begin blurring when you take a whole approach to faith????)
In closing (I know, it's been long...and if you're still with me...BRAVO!)...my faith is personal, but not private. I'm called to live it out with everyone around me in different ways, responding to each person I meet appropriately--rejoicing with those who rejoice, and mourning with those who mourn. Encouraging, feeding, clothing, protecting...I should worship with everything I do...reflecting the glory of God by maintaining His beautiful Creation--which is a reflection of His attention to detail and care for us. Mostly, I am being challenged to act upon my convictions. I still don't know how all of this will work itself out in "real life," but I know that I am less laid back than ever and more inclined to stretch myself to love, to accept, and to serve. That is what worshipping God with my life means. It means reflecting Him and giving Him glory every moment of every day.
Whew. My brain is tired. And a little emptier. But my soul is singing. Can you hear it?
Goodnight.
for more on the sermon: "The Story of God: Being Human" (From 1/29/07) that inspired some of this... www.renovatuscommunity.com
ENTER, Then go to MEDIA and LISTEN
You can get a free podcast on itunes or listen to it in the archive (the podcast is up...the archive should have it in a few days). It's an hour long...our pastor is long-winded like I am!!! :) One of the best sermons I've ever heard...he even espoused the idea that we were born to live naked...but you'll have to listen to find out all about that. hee hee hee.
Bring back the blog!
I think I'm bringing back the blog.
I've missed it. I might have things to say...things to report...excitement of the highest order...or I might not. You'll just have to swing by to find out! :)
I've missed it. I might have things to say...things to report...excitement of the highest order...or I might not. You'll just have to swing by to find out! :)
4.12.2006
Teddy Bear Tea Party
Winthrop's own "Big Stuff" mingles with the kiddies. He's an eagle. With a basketball jersey.
3.29.2006
3.15.2006
A Little Patch of Sunshine
My dog, Tink (aka "Stink" depending on what she's eaten), loves to lie in the front doorway. Why? There, in the morning hours between 9 and 11:30 or so, she finds a little patch of sunshine. A place where she can soak up the rays, stay warm and cozy, and sleep peacefully. She will lie there until she is panting from the heat, and I have to remind her to go lap up water before she croaks.
Don't we all crave a little patch of sunshine...that place where we feel cozy and warm, where we have the peace to rest, and forget about even the most basic of needs?
She is lying there now...only disturbed by the potential to get a treat from an incoming husband. She looks peaceful and hopeful...another lovely day of sleeping and eating and some petting too.
That's the life, kids. A little patch of sunshine. I find it mostly in God...when I'm right with him, and I know that He is in control and will take of things. Something reminds me about "Be still and know..." or as Pastor J-Mart quoted a few weeks back from another version, "Cease striving and know that I am God." (Psalm 46:10) And so many times I forget, and strive on my own...trying to work every problem out in my own little futile brain. I need to remember the Tink and find my place in the doorway and let the Lord shine down on me.
Have a little patch of sunshine day. (I'm really resisting the urge to go for the Christian cliche here, and write a little patch of SONshine...GROAN! But I didn't do it...see? I'm still cool...yeah. I am. Darn it.)
Don't we all crave a little patch of sunshine...that place where we feel cozy and warm, where we have the peace to rest, and forget about even the most basic of needs?
She is lying there now...only disturbed by the potential to get a treat from an incoming husband. She looks peaceful and hopeful...another lovely day of sleeping and eating and some petting too.
That's the life, kids. A little patch of sunshine. I find it mostly in God...when I'm right with him, and I know that He is in control and will take of things. Something reminds me about "Be still and know..." or as Pastor J-Mart quoted a few weeks back from another version, "Cease striving and know that I am God." (Psalm 46:10) And so many times I forget, and strive on my own...trying to work every problem out in my own little futile brain. I need to remember the Tink and find my place in the doorway and let the Lord shine down on me.
Have a little patch of sunshine day. (I'm really resisting the urge to go for the Christian cliche here, and write a little patch of SONshine...GROAN! But I didn't do it...see? I'm still cool...yeah. I am. Darn it.)
3.12.2006
So I'm writing nothing. Yup. Just thought I should write something. But it's really nothing. Several lines of absolutely nothing. Nothing at all. Just letters in a line that don't really reveal anything. And that's all I have to say. Well, let's see. I shall recount things I like.
I like warm weather.
I like sandals and painted toenails.
I like chocolate chip cookies.I like a tall man named Jerod.
My parents are cool.
My brother and sis-in-law are like the smartest people ever.
I really like the fact that our ceiling fan makes the room pleasant.
I like my new Orange Crush clock/light that I won on ebay.
I like ebay.
I like my dogs; even when they are annoying, they are sweet and are happy to see me.
I like yard work and dirt...most of the time.
I like my space...I just joined and have found many old friends.
I like orange.
I like orange.
I like orange.
I like orange so much I wrote it four times.
I like pizza...mostly just cheese...if I'm feeling wild...maybe some green peppers, hamburger, or chicken.
I like Qdoba...a lot...and I miss that there's not one close-by.
I like Winthrop. (GO EAGLES! NCAA big dance this week!)
I like outfits that go together without much thought or ironing.
I like comfortable shoes.
I like tulips...all colors.I like Spring...it's as if God is just showing off.
I like Diet Sprite.
See, now I wrote about something. Go me.
2.25.2006
2.15.2006
Stella, 11, escapes a close call
Stella Sentra Jones, 11, had a brush with the junkyard cemetary over the weekend. The 1994 Nissan began making odd chugging sounds and being very jumpy on Thursday night of last week. She spent the weekend at a local auto repair center trapped in a fence. The diagnosis had not been given, and there were doubts as to whether she would last through the weekend.
Her parents were distraught. What to do? Would she make it out alive to see another bend in the road? Or was this just a cry for help?
"I just don't know what to do," Mrs. Jones said, "She's been such a part of my life. I just don't know if I'm ready to say goodbye."
In the end, her parents sought professional help. Test driving several cars enticed them to dream about that new car smell, the rev of a new engine, and the hope of leg room for Mr. Jones. The numbers, however, were disheartening. The bills would mount, and tarnish the hopes of the newer vehicle.
"That's the real test," said Mr. Jones, a hearty 6'11", "if my knees will fit. They don't fit in Stella, but she's a part of the family. It's a real dilemma."
After much thought, many calls, and no small amount of engine prayers, the call came.
Stella Sentra Jones was diagnosed with a minor spark plug problem to the tune of $92. She is now sitting in her driveway, pleased to be given a new lease on life. The Joneses are happy to have her back and to avoid the high cost of replacing a legend like Stella.
Drive, Stella, Drive. You can do 200,000...we believe.
Her parents were distraught. What to do? Would she make it out alive to see another bend in the road? Or was this just a cry for help?
"I just don't know what to do," Mrs. Jones said, "She's been such a part of my life. I just don't know if I'm ready to say goodbye."
In the end, her parents sought professional help. Test driving several cars enticed them to dream about that new car smell, the rev of a new engine, and the hope of leg room for Mr. Jones. The numbers, however, were disheartening. The bills would mount, and tarnish the hopes of the newer vehicle.
"That's the real test," said Mr. Jones, a hearty 6'11", "if my knees will fit. They don't fit in Stella, but she's a part of the family. It's a real dilemma."
After much thought, many calls, and no small amount of engine prayers, the call came.
Stella Sentra Jones was diagnosed with a minor spark plug problem to the tune of $92. She is now sitting in her driveway, pleased to be given a new lease on life. The Joneses are happy to have her back and to avoid the high cost of replacing a legend like Stella.
Drive, Stella, Drive. You can do 200,000...we believe.
2.06.2006
It's February, and I've not updated you...
...on my ever-exciting life! Well, not really. I probably haven't written because there's not a lot of news. I never capitalized on that "musings on a new year" endeavor, so maybe you'll get a "musings on February" soon. I know, you're peeing yourself with glee, aren't you?
I'm happy for a life without great drama. Our evenings are quiet...some TV, some writing, some reading, and (for Jerod) going to bed early. I am making an effort to watch less TV in the new year and concentrating on writing notes (for SNAIL MAIL!) to people, reading 1 Kings (how interesting is that book?), and petting the Tinkerbell dog.
We are loving our church, RENOVATUS, and doing some odds-n-ends there...some ushering and power point running and occasional greeting. I'm trying to keep this year quiet and focus on spiritual and personal growth and health. I have a strong tendency to jump in and do everything, so I'm trying to help out in small ways while Jerod and I put down some roots of our own as a "family." We've recruited our friend Elizabeth to come out, and she's loving it too. It's cool to see how God can take away something that you think is so precious to you (Central Church) and still replace it with something you needed more than you knew (Renovatus). I actually feel myself getting refreshed spiritually, instead of feeling overwhelmed by the work load and getting constantly frustrated as I did before. AHHHHHHHH! (take a deep breath with me...it's good for the soul.)
And if you're ever interested in reading 1 Kings, let me know, and we'll have our own cyber-book-club. It would make a great movie! Lots of war, intrigue, idol worship, overthrows, and craziness...and God continued to find ways to redeem His people and His chosen leaders. What manner of patience and faithfulness does He have, anyway?? More than I do, for sure.
So, that's all for today. Back to my lovely, boring life.
Hope you all have a fabulous day.
I'm happy for a life without great drama. Our evenings are quiet...some TV, some writing, some reading, and (for Jerod) going to bed early. I am making an effort to watch less TV in the new year and concentrating on writing notes (for SNAIL MAIL!) to people, reading 1 Kings (how interesting is that book?), and petting the Tinkerbell dog.
We are loving our church, RENOVATUS, and doing some odds-n-ends there...some ushering and power point running and occasional greeting. I'm trying to keep this year quiet and focus on spiritual and personal growth and health. I have a strong tendency to jump in and do everything, so I'm trying to help out in small ways while Jerod and I put down some roots of our own as a "family." We've recruited our friend Elizabeth to come out, and she's loving it too. It's cool to see how God can take away something that you think is so precious to you (Central Church) and still replace it with something you needed more than you knew (Renovatus). I actually feel myself getting refreshed spiritually, instead of feeling overwhelmed by the work load and getting constantly frustrated as I did before. AHHHHHHHH! (take a deep breath with me...it's good for the soul.)
And if you're ever interested in reading 1 Kings, let me know, and we'll have our own cyber-book-club. It would make a great movie! Lots of war, intrigue, idol worship, overthrows, and craziness...and God continued to find ways to redeem His people and His chosen leaders. What manner of patience and faithfulness does He have, anyway?? More than I do, for sure.
So, that's all for today. Back to my lovely, boring life.
Hope you all have a fabulous day.
12.29.2005
Happy New Year..almost
Well, Christmas has pretty much come and gone (sad face), but NEW YEAR'S IS STILL ON THE WAY! (happy face) It also happens to be our one year anniversary (happy smiley face)...and a day that the whole world celebrates. (fireworks and many happy faces) I shall compose a pondering of the year to come soon (shelley=happy face; shelley's friends reading the blog=whocares? face). Well you don't have to read it!!!! :) actual happy face emoticon
Here are a few pictures from our happy Christmas season.
12.25.2005
Merry Christmas to All...
MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!
Hello everyone out there in blogger land. It's Christmas Day, and I'm hanging out here at the house in Newnan. We're having a pretty chill day. I've showered and eaten and it's 2:30. That's not too bad! Nice and restful.
I should mention just for fun that we were going to Birmingham today, but a little virus stepped in and decided to annihilate those plans. Jerod woke up at 4 in the morning with some intestinal vomitous distress. My mom and I whisked off to find something open at 4:30 on Christmas morning...and hit the jackpot with a HOT SPOT convenience store. He's toast right now...but my brother Dr. Giles to the rescue!! He called in some anti-nausea medicine and hopefully it will help Jerod feel less "spinny" and get some sleep.
And there are loads of unopened presents awaiting him downstairs when he starts to feel a bit better! Sad that my boy feels badly...especially on Christmas. At least we're in a comfy place with family. Our dog Tink won't leave his side...it's very sweet.
According to the pharmacist at CVS (thank you for being open!!), there are a lot of folks grounded with the stomach bug today.
Well, wasn't that all happiness and pleasantry? I am very thankful for family and rest and cars that run, warm houses, food on the table, dogs that love me, JESUS, and so much more. I do love Christmas, even if the plans don't go exactly as we hope.
Here's something funny...
Christmas Carols for the Mentally Disturbed
1. Schizophrenia --- Do You Hear What I Hear?
2. Multiple Personality Disorder ---We Three Kings Disoriented are
3. Dementia --- I Think I'll be Home for Christmas
4. Narcissistic --- Hark the Herald Angels Sing About Me
5. Manic --- Deck the Halls and Walls and House and Lawn and Streets and Stores and Office and Town and Cars and Buses and Trucks and Trees and.....
6. Paranoid --- Santa Claus is Coming to Town to Get Me
7. Borderline Personality Disorder --- Thoughts of Roasting on an Open Fire
8. Personality Disorder --- You Better Watch Out, I'm Gonna Cry, I'm Gonna Pout, Maybe I'll Tell You Why
9. Attention Deficit Disorder --- Silent night, Holy oooh look at the froggy - can I have a chocolate, why is France so far away?
10. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder --Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle, Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells ..
Pa rum pa pum pum, jingle jangle, fa la la la la, and Gloooooooooooooooorrrrrriiiiiiiaaaaa,
~Shelley, the elf in charge of cool rags, water, blankets, and anti-nausea medication...
Hello everyone out there in blogger land. It's Christmas Day, and I'm hanging out here at the house in Newnan. We're having a pretty chill day. I've showered and eaten and it's 2:30. That's not too bad! Nice and restful.
I should mention just for fun that we were going to Birmingham today, but a little virus stepped in and decided to annihilate those plans. Jerod woke up at 4 in the morning with some intestinal vomitous distress. My mom and I whisked off to find something open at 4:30 on Christmas morning...and hit the jackpot with a HOT SPOT convenience store. He's toast right now...but my brother Dr. Giles to the rescue!! He called in some anti-nausea medicine and hopefully it will help Jerod feel less "spinny" and get some sleep.
And there are loads of unopened presents awaiting him downstairs when he starts to feel a bit better! Sad that my boy feels badly...especially on Christmas. At least we're in a comfy place with family. Our dog Tink won't leave his side...it's very sweet.
According to the pharmacist at CVS (thank you for being open!!), there are a lot of folks grounded with the stomach bug today.
Well, wasn't that all happiness and pleasantry? I am very thankful for family and rest and cars that run, warm houses, food on the table, dogs that love me, JESUS, and so much more. I do love Christmas, even if the plans don't go exactly as we hope.
Here's something funny...
Christmas Carols for the Mentally Disturbed
1. Schizophrenia --- Do You Hear What I Hear?
2. Multiple Personality Disorder ---We Three Kings Disoriented are
3. Dementia --- I Think I'll be Home for Christmas
4. Narcissistic --- Hark the Herald Angels Sing About Me
5. Manic --- Deck the Halls and Walls and House and Lawn and Streets and Stores and Office and Town and Cars and Buses and Trucks and Trees and.....
6. Paranoid --- Santa Claus is Coming to Town to Get Me
7. Borderline Personality Disorder --- Thoughts of Roasting on an Open Fire
8. Personality Disorder --- You Better Watch Out, I'm Gonna Cry, I'm Gonna Pout, Maybe I'll Tell You Why
9. Attention Deficit Disorder --- Silent night, Holy oooh look at the froggy - can I have a chocolate, why is France so far away?
10. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder --Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle, Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells ..
Pa rum pa pum pum, jingle jangle, fa la la la la, and Gloooooooooooooooorrrrrriiiiiiiaaaaa,
~Shelley, the elf in charge of cool rags, water, blankets, and anti-nausea medication...
11.16.2005
That's Dino-Bite!
This pic just cracked me up. It's random, in the spirit of my friend Gretchen, who always posts fun photos. Doesn't that T-Rex look excited about dinner?
Goodbye Red Chaise
They came, they saw, they bought.
The good folks of Rock Hill came in spurts a few weeks ago and happily carted our reject stuff off in various minivans and cars. Our "early birds" made a repeat appearance and took to cussing when Jerod told them not to bother even coming up the driveway at 6:40 am. It's really fun to make rednecks mad.
I sold my red chaise lounge chair for a steal. Sigh. I'll miss her. We read many a good book together. There was just no room. Sigh (again).
Not too much else going on. In a rare Martha Stewart incarnation, I baked homemade bread, made curtains, and added bead trim to a lamp shade over the past few days! We'll see if I can stay "on that roll" heading into the holidays. I can't wait to cart everything out of the attic and set it up! Outwardly I'm outraged that they dare start ushering in Christmas on November 1, but inwardly, I kinda like it. Jingle all the way, I say.
(Well, maybe I wasn't saying that on Monday, when I had to drag LOADS AND LOADS of university Christmas stuff down two flights of stairs! BUT, it was a stairmaster moment---and I need more of those, you know what I'm sayin'?)
We'll start decorating here at work on MONDAY! (11.21) It takes about four days to get the President's house all decked out. I'm so excited to see it!!!!!
OK, I should scoot...let me know how YOUR Christmas decorations are coming out and your favorite Christmas THING.
Merry Thanksgiving to all and to all a good night!
The good folks of Rock Hill came in spurts a few weeks ago and happily carted our reject stuff off in various minivans and cars. Our "early birds" made a repeat appearance and took to cussing when Jerod told them not to bother even coming up the driveway at 6:40 am. It's really fun to make rednecks mad.
I sold my red chaise lounge chair for a steal. Sigh. I'll miss her. We read many a good book together. There was just no room. Sigh (again).
Not too much else going on. In a rare Martha Stewart incarnation, I baked homemade bread, made curtains, and added bead trim to a lamp shade over the past few days! We'll see if I can stay "on that roll" heading into the holidays. I can't wait to cart everything out of the attic and set it up! Outwardly I'm outraged that they dare start ushering in Christmas on November 1, but inwardly, I kinda like it. Jingle all the way, I say.
(Well, maybe I wasn't saying that on Monday, when I had to drag LOADS AND LOADS of university Christmas stuff down two flights of stairs! BUT, it was a stairmaster moment---and I need more of those, you know what I'm sayin'?)
We'll start decorating here at work on MONDAY! (11.21) It takes about four days to get the President's house all decked out. I'm so excited to see it!!!!!
OK, I should scoot...let me know how YOUR Christmas decorations are coming out and your favorite Christmas THING.
Merry Thanksgiving to all and to all a good night!
11.04.2005
Price stickers and early birds
Our blind dog is having some trouble navigating through the house tonight. Our den is currently buried under a mountain of stuff. CD racks, vintage toys, shoes that rubbed me wrong, one old printer, a board game, various computer cables to whoknowswhat, throw pillows that match nothing in particular, purses who have served their time, etc.
It's the "etc." that scares me a little...what was so important about this junk that made us hold on to it for years, moving it from house to house to attic?
Some of it was useful in its day. Some of it is just CRAP! I can't believe we get to have a yard sale in the morning. I mean, people will actually show up at our house before the sun rises, and pay US money to take away our crap. What a deal! (I LOVE THIS COUNTRY!)
Last March, we did this (yes, we DO have that much crap) and there were people meeting us at the door a full 30 minutes before we "opened" to see what crap was emanating from the house next in order to grab it or turn their noses up at it. One savory fellow bragged to us about having 90,000 watches in his collection. That's not a collection; that's lots of similar CRAP in one place. :) He bought a few non-working ones from us...even the freebies I got from TIME magazine. I would call him pathetic, but then, I'd have to check out the plank in my eye...you know.
My weakness is books. I have discovered the joys of our book exchange shop, but still there are boxes and shelves full that I cannot purge. Selling books you love is much like giving away your friends to strangers. It's weird and wrong. Keep books. Especially if you're like me, and you only have vague recollections of plots...in five or eight years re-reading them is like reading them for the first time!
OK, maybe I shouldn't have admitted that aloud.
I'll keep you posted on how our SALE goes, and what kinds of interesting Rock Hillians show up before the crack of dawn...
It's the "etc." that scares me a little...what was so important about this junk that made us hold on to it for years, moving it from house to house to attic?
Some of it was useful in its day. Some of it is just CRAP! I can't believe we get to have a yard sale in the morning. I mean, people will actually show up at our house before the sun rises, and pay US money to take away our crap. What a deal! (I LOVE THIS COUNTRY!)
Last March, we did this (yes, we DO have that much crap) and there were people meeting us at the door a full 30 minutes before we "opened" to see what crap was emanating from the house next in order to grab it or turn their noses up at it. One savory fellow bragged to us about having 90,000 watches in his collection. That's not a collection; that's lots of similar CRAP in one place. :) He bought a few non-working ones from us...even the freebies I got from TIME magazine. I would call him pathetic, but then, I'd have to check out the plank in my eye...you know.
My weakness is books. I have discovered the joys of our book exchange shop, but still there are boxes and shelves full that I cannot purge. Selling books you love is much like giving away your friends to strangers. It's weird and wrong. Keep books. Especially if you're like me, and you only have vague recollections of plots...in five or eight years re-reading them is like reading them for the first time!
OK, maybe I shouldn't have admitted that aloud.
I'll keep you posted on how our SALE goes, and what kinds of interesting Rock Hillians show up before the crack of dawn...
10.10.2005
It's Fall, I think I'll turn over a NEW leaf
We're watching a documentary on the Grand Canyon...a welcome relief from the canned laughter and fake reality shows on the popular fare.
BUT, that's not what I'm here to divulge...that was just a slice of life from the Joneses. In that vein, I will also highly recommend to you the Pillsbury Oatmeal Raisin bake-em-at-home cookies. They are fabulous with a splash of Good Humor soft vanilla ice cream. Slice of life over.
New leaf...oh yes. (I wonder from whence that phrase comes...I shall look it up shortly)
Started the new job at WINTHROP U. last week. So far, so loving it! I was seeking a professional challenge and a family-type environment. Check...and check. I work in a beautiful setting with very nice people, and I'm just a few miles from home. I've enjoyed mid-day runs home for lunch, and I really really DON'T miss getting on I-77 every day.
Jerod is still hacking away at his plans for school each weekend, making him wonder what possesses anyone to teach. Yeah, yeah...fulfillment and all that...but spending four hours on the internet to come up with a science lesson will really make you want to become a burger-cooker or a port-a-john emptier man. :) (he's threatened the latter. Of course I'll love him no matter what he does, but I do have to live with the SMELL!)
Enjoying the new leaf/life...and the promise of good times to come...and the hint of Fall in the air.
Go Panthers.
Later.
BUT, that's not what I'm here to divulge...that was just a slice of life from the Joneses. In that vein, I will also highly recommend to you the Pillsbury Oatmeal Raisin bake-em-at-home cookies. They are fabulous with a splash of Good Humor soft vanilla ice cream. Slice of life over.
New leaf...oh yes. (I wonder from whence that phrase comes...I shall look it up shortly)
Started the new job at WINTHROP U. last week. So far, so loving it! I was seeking a professional challenge and a family-type environment. Check...and check. I work in a beautiful setting with very nice people, and I'm just a few miles from home. I've enjoyed mid-day runs home for lunch, and I really really DON'T miss getting on I-77 every day.
Jerod is still hacking away at his plans for school each weekend, making him wonder what possesses anyone to teach. Yeah, yeah...fulfillment and all that...but spending four hours on the internet to come up with a science lesson will really make you want to become a burger-cooker or a port-a-john emptier man. :) (he's threatened the latter. Of course I'll love him no matter what he does, but I do have to live with the SMELL!)
Enjoying the new leaf/life...and the promise of good times to come...and the hint of Fall in the air.
Go Panthers.
Later.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)