We Must. . .

put. . .

love above hate
grace above shame
God above man
relationship above isolation
positive thoughts above negative thoughts
confidence above fear
forgiveness above revenge
light above dark
others above ourselves
hope above despair
obedience above temptation
faith above doubt

Harvest Time/Oil on canvas-1944/Lois Ireland

Lois part 2 (risky business)

I love what C.S. Lewis has to say about LOVE-it's dead on, and I not only agree, I've experienced it as most of you most certainly have if you live and breathe in this world.
C.S. Lewis (to give you a little background)-never wanted to open up to the idea of love. It was too dangerous to him. He couldn't accept the fact that it caused pain. That when you enter into a loving relationship with someone-you will eventually end up in a hurting state. There will be emotional pain involved. C.S. Lewis would rather live without love. He'd rather live without the risks involved of loving someone. It was just too risky to put his heart out there and on the line for another human being. He-out of that fear, lived without love for quite sometime.

The more he studied Christianity, the more and more he became open to love though-and finally risked it all for a woman named Joy, later in his life. He took such a big risk with her that he married her. She gave him the most joyous days of his life-and vise versa. It was like he bottled up all that love that he hadn't shared and saved it all for her. It was a risk for him though, because eventually, not too long after they were married-Joy died of cancer. But without that pain that he experienced in her death, he never would have experienced the happiness they shared. The joy they had together! He had to have that pain to have such love!

Well, I am feeling a bit like the earlier C.S. Lewis these days. Anyone who knows me knows that I would give a stranger my heart practically. I love people-and have a huge heart and compassion for people. More so now with Christ in my life- I really try to focus in on who I can love and serve besides myself! That is the ultimate goal, isn't it? That was Jesus'.

I am a pretty vulnerable person, and I wear my heart on my sleeve. I am open, emotional, compassionate, and always willing and wanting and ready to help. Especially the down and out, the poor, the widow etc...as you read in my previous blog "Lois", I had befriended her and taken time out of my life to serve her and reach out to her. I mentioned she was quite the spit fire, and a bit negative. Sort of a cynic. Even more reason she needed LOVE.
But I could handle it. So I thought.

Almost 2 weeks ago, I picked her up for a Caribou Coffee. I told her I only had a little over an hour and that I needed to be home for my daughter (plus with my health being so awful right now, I don't last too long out of the home). Anyway, we were enjoying our Ho Ho Mocha's and out of the blue, she looked at me with a mean look on her face and said "Well you're a inquisitive young girl aren't you?" I was so taken aback, I didn't even know how to respond. I didn't even know what specifically she was talking about! I do tend to ask questions-it's how I communicate and get to know people-it's how I keep things going etc...I must have been on a role, and she snapped! I felt so awful!
She got up right away and went to the bathroom-
Then about 15 minutes before we left, a friend that I knew from when I worked at Caribou came up to us and started chatting. Lois and I were on the sofa and she sat down on the coffee table. Lauren and I started talking about how Lauren was a dancer, and I told her how my daughter was too etc... so we were connecting on that. Each thing we talked about though, I made sure that I wasn't blocking Lois with my head, and that she was in the conversation too.

During the whole time Lauren and I were talking, I could hear Lois make this sound (she makes this groaning sound when she is frustrated or irritated), I was like "oh no".... Lois then reminded me snottily that it was 2:00, and "don't you have to get going?".

So we all headed out the door, as I was catering to Lois as usual "Can I through your cup away for you? Can I help you with your coat?" She was like dissing me the whole way out the door. She was very upset, like steaming!

Then we got outside, and I said goodbye to Lauren, and I asked Lois if she wanted a ride to Cub (she knew I couldn't help her with her groceries that day, and that she had to call the DARTS bus for a ride home)-and she ignored me! I was like "Lois, don't you want a ride down to Cub?"
She just said rudely"It's nice out (which it wasn't, it was like 40mph winds that day)-I'll walk!"

I was like "Bye", and she just ignored me!

Lauren was in her car and I was getting into mine, and we just looked at each other like, "What the heck?"

I was so determined, because I was so confused-so I drove it down the side of the sidewalk and I saw her just about getting to Cub, and I stopped my car and rolled down my window, and I yelled out "Bye Lois (still no response, she saw me and ignored me), bye Lois, Lois?"

FINALLY she took her left hand (which looked like she was going to flip me off)-lifted it quickly and shooed me!!!

I was so hurt that day and am honestly still confused. I called my husband right away in shock! I asked him what I did wrong!

I wanted to give up right then and there. My attitude quickly was not good. There was so much I was feeling and I was so frustrated, and my thoughts were NOT godly! I mean, what is the use!? Here I am barely getting by on my own, I have my own family, my own friends, my own church, my own house-and I'm spending time with you woman!

I felt like C.S. Lewis. It's not worth loving, and investing in others, because all that occurs is pain. I just get hurt. I just am unsatisfied. It's not fair. No one loves me the way I love them. I am tired of trying. It's not fulfilling to me. I can protect myself if I don't give of myself. No one is good to me back and on and on and on.

But I have got to know that even if I get hurt in the process, and Lois treated me the way she did (I have left her a message or two and have not heard back from her yet, so I will keep you posted)-I need to persevere! No matter what the cost, I must love! I must serve! No, not let people walk all over me, and I'll have to see how it goes with Lois, because if that kept up that would not be healthy.

But I must and you must take the risk, the time, the pain, the joy, the tears, the laughter, the calling, and the most important thing, the higher purpose and LOVE. If not for yourself, or for the other person, for GOD. I know that if Lois doesn't see who I am and doesn't give me the stamp of approval, or appreciate me-it's ok-because GOD does. What He thinks is all that matters. He sees what I am doing here on earth for Him. It may hurt, it may be unfair, it may be ugly, it may not be how I want it, and it may not be fun-but it's God's work.

No matter who we choose to love, whether it's people we know or people we don't know-we must take risks-there will always be pain involved, whether it's through conflict, or someone being unfair to us. But that can not stop us from reaching out and doing the Lord's will.

He was a servant-we are to be servants. He was love-we are to love-He had grace-we are to give grace-He forgave-we are to forgive-He didn't gossip-we are to not gossip-He was selfless-we are to be selfless. No matter how risky the business might be-risk it ALL if it's in the name of Jesus! Endure what may lie ahead and fix your eyes on Jesus-get your strength from Him-refocus on Him if you get hurt-go back to your center, and that has to be Christ-then you will have the will to love on.

The painting above is by Lois Ireland (Zwettler)
Morning Glory//Oil on canvas//1948
University of Wisconsin- Madison

10 Disease-fighting foods

1. Whole Grains-and don't think "wheat bread", or "wheat flour" counts! Look for the word "whole" on the label. Whole wheat or whole grain.

2. Fish-rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which protect against heart disease by helping you have "good" cholesterol. Omega-3's also help lower blood pressure. If you aren't a fish eater like me, you can get a high quality organic liquid or a liquid pill of Omega 3's. There are some that add peppermint oil so you won't be burping up fish all day!

3. Walnuts and Almonds-they are high in calories and fat, but when they are so nutritionally dense, it's ok. Walnuts are loaded with calcium, iron, and natural Vitamin E, oh, and riboflavin.
Walnuts are loaded with phosphorus, zinc, copper, iron potassium and Vitamin E (and walnuts are low in saturated fat). Both are cholesterol free too. Only eat about 22 Almonds, and about 14 walnuts though, you want to eat them in moderation.

4. Legumes-a variety of dried beans, peas, and lentils, all high in protein. They have no cholesterol and very little fat. They are a good meat substitute. They also help reduce cholesterol, and lower blood pressure.

5. Soy-which can help fight heart disease, and provide fiber and protein. Eat soy in moderation because some research has shown that soy can interact with the imbalance of estrogen for women, therefore causing breast cancer. You could do a Boca Burger, Soy milk, or Soy nuts.

6. Fat free dairy products-calcium can contribute to preventing high blood pressure, stroke, colon cancer and obesity. Milk also provides protein, minerals and B Vitamins.

7. Berries-rich in antioxidants, especially blueberries, but blackberries, raspberries and strawberries aren't far behind.

8. Broccoli and Cauliflower-both high in Vitamin C, and broccoli contains a high amount of Vitamin A. They are low in fat, contain fiber and have no cholesterol.

9. Tomatoes!-my favorite! They contain a number of nutrients, including Vitamins C and B complex, as well as iron and potassium. They also contain the antioxidant lycopene-which heart healthy. And possibly helps reduce certain types of cancers.

10. Green Tea (wish I liked it)!- It is a major source of phytochemicals, known as flavonoids, which help lower the risk of some diseases. It may inhibit the enzyme activity necessary for some forms of cancer growth too.

This isn't Gina's list, but it's in a new book I'm reading. I guess if I had to add to it, I would add:

-Keifer(like a shake, found near the milk, usually in the healthy area)! It's delicious, and comes in lots of flavors, like blueberry, pomegrante, strawberry
-Cherrios
-Spinach
-Apples
-Sweet Potatoes
-Women's Bread (found in the freezer area with frozen bread, usually in the healthy area)

Trattoria Da vinci

TRATTORIA: ENGLISH TRANSLATION: Little Italian Restaurant

It was my husband and I's 6 year Anniversary yesterday! Last nite we went to a restaurant that has been on my "restaurant list" for years! It's a place I originally heard about from being a lover of twin cities restaurants- especially Italian. But my best friend, Amy had been there several times and always raved about it!

If you know me at all, you know I am a huge skeptic when it comes to good food, and restaurants, especially when it comes to my favorite-Italian. It's hard to find delicious Italian food in the cities.

I did some researching on the restaurant website the day before we went. It looked wonderful and the decor looked just as appealing. I also love art, but for some reason I wasn't putting two and two together when it came to LEONARDO DA VINCI, and my best friend didn't mention that either! Which I still don't get!

Well I walked through these beautiful Black Iron Gate doors, with vines wrapped through them-and entered into what somewhat reflected my own living room! It was beautiful! All of Leonardo's work was hanging up, including the famous Mona Lisa (the one hanging was very close to the original size in The Louvre in Paris)-they even had his drawings hanging! There were columns in the open style dining room, and marble, and hardwood floors. There was Italian wine bottles that lined up along some wrap around shelving around the room.

We arrived about 40 minutes early, (they weren't technically open yet)-but it didn't matter-they told us to go sit at the bar and enjoy an Anniversary drink! I had a Cosmo and Kevin had a Bloody Mary! Both were memorably delicious! I had only drank about one fourth of mine and I was light headed!
We had a nice time chatting with the owner, manager and bartender and then we enjoyed our Caprese' salad- (Fresh Buffalo Mozzarelli with tamatas, and basil, sprinkled with kosher salt and pepper). The last time I treated myself to that dish was when we were in Paris over 6 years ago on Valentine's Day.

After that we went to our table-the service was excellent. She was just as great as everyone else we had met so far. I was so dizzy though during the ordering process, that when I had got back from the bathroom, I told Kevin I had forgotten what I ordered! He thought I was a piece of work!

I ordered the Penne' Aurora- it was a delicious reddish cream sauce with chicken, broccoli, walnuts and tamatas. Kevin had homemade, hand rolled Gnocchi with white Gorgonzola sauce. They were both very good. I give the food about a 7 and the service and atmosphere a 10!

We had a very memorable nite, and we also took home some Tiramisu (which I still need to eat today)! Maybe one day I will be writing about our actual experience IN Italy! My dream!

Happy Anniversary Kevin and Gina! To 6 long, challenging, trying, grace-filled, mercy-filled, laughter- filled years. I praise God for everything He's done in and through us with our marriage. I am still trying to figure out what He's doing with us, but I am slowly but surely trying to trust Him.

ANSWER TO LAST POST:

Both the same.

Jesus loves Osama. . .

and all of our other so called enemies. It's like that very important question I asked my daughter a couple months back-"Who does Jesus love more, the murdered, or the murderer?"
Do you know?

Lois

She's a lady that I met when she was 78. She'll be 80 in January. I befriended her when I use to work at Caribou-she came in nearly everyday. She caught my eye because she carried a Marilyn Monroe purse, and a bag of sketches. She was a stitch from the minute I met her. Her somewhat pessimistic attitude, and humor were all together lovely. She always made me smile and laugh.

Whenever I meet people, I always look for the Kingdom value in it. Every person I see isn't just "a person", they are a creation of the Almighty, and He love and adores them, and so should I!

Lois and I would chat in between my rushes at work, and we connected because of our love for Art. She was actually an Artist. She'd been in Hastings for 12 years-moving to independent old folks home after becoming a widow. She's originally from Wisconsin, she grew up on a farm. She was famous back her teens for her paintings. She tells me to this day that Georgia O'Keeffe took her fame from her, that her family was wealthy, so they were able to make Georgia famous. Lois' work is splendid. I love it! She had her first Art Exhibit this past summer in West Bend, WI. She was so proud of that, and couldn't come to terms with the fact that it ended.

She has spent time in my home, and we've gone out for lunch and dinners often. I also pick her up sometimes on the weekends (when the buses aren't running), for a Caribou.

Like most creative people, she is very complex. Very emotional, and full of passion. I think she struggles with harmful thoughts and depression.
She use to paint at the art studio here in downtown Hastings, but it closed a couple of months ago because they couldn't afford to keep it open. That hit Lois hard. She is also getting antsy in her tiny apartment, with not much stimuli. They don't have much going on there, so she is wanting to move to Stillwater-they have a art studio there too where she could pick up the brush again.

She has 2 sons who spend some time with her, but she is very lonely. I think her attitude could be better-but how would I know what it's like to be 80, a widow, an artist not able to paint, and live with depression? About a month ago, she had a mental breakdown.
She was in the hospital for 2 weeks, and now they have her on so many medications, she is almost unrecognizable.

Last week when I called to check on her, I asked her if I could bring her anything, or if she needed anything. She actually said she could use some Banana's and some Milk.
When I got to her building, she was sitting outside waiting for me- she didn't look too good, so I offered to bring them up for her.

While we were there, I asked her if there was anything she'd like to talk about. She started opening up about the past and her feelings about her Mother. She said her Mother condemned her when she (Lois), got pregnant out of wedlock. (Lois and I also have that in common).
Her Mother shamed Lois and pretty much drove her out of her life. Her Mother died years ago, and Lois just can't let of how her Mother treated her or felt about her. She wishes she had that time back so she could speak up, and there could be a time of forgiveness. It's so sad that society and "Religion" has gotten people to the point of shaming others for mistakes/sins we all make. Jesus wasn't like that at all.

I listened, and told Lois that Jesus would have taken her hand, and loved her through that difficult time-that He accepts her no matter what she's done. And it is never too late, He will always forgive her. That God would always welcome her into His arms.
I tried to tell her that regardless of what her Mother approved or didn't approve of, it didn't matter. What mattered is that God loved her and defined her.

She was very attentive and really wanted to believe that. I continued to tell her the Gospel story, and tell her about what Jesus was like. That He wasn't like most of the denominations we have in this world-that He a servant. He was love. I told her she didn't need to "do" anything, that she could just ask Him to be in her life. I told her she didn't need to be perfect before she could have a relationship with Him. I told her she didn't have to be clean or proper first. She could just be with Him how she was at that time, and He would accept her.

She wondered how that could happen and I just told her to pray, and to read the bible. She said that she'd tried to read before, but it made her feel bad. She said she read the middle of the Psalms in the King James Version! I said for one, you are reading it probably out of context and for two, that version is really difficult to understand, and not for today's time!

I prayed over her, and she was brought to tears by the end of our time together. She said she had never had anyone pray with her like that (and I'm sure it was a little freaky for her, I know before I understood, I thought it was too)!

She was so sweet in listening to me, and I even changed the radio station for her, to a Christian dial, and she loved it!

It made me so sad that she is almost 80, and didn't know that Jesus was her friend. That to me is unacceptable! There has to be a sense of urgency to share the Gospel, (in love). The best way is to invest in people. Invest in taking time-building relationships. If you aren't, it isn't going to happen! People need to trust first. I knew Lois was at a place in her life-it was a risk for me to share what I did-she could have kicked me out! But I didn't care-she had lost all hope in everything else-and even though it took 80 years-it wasn't too late.

A Diamond In The Rough

When you really stop and think about what that means, it's amazing. A beautiful, unique, one of a kind gem- jewel-DIAMOND-in the rough of a mine. Catching the sparkle, the shine, the clarity in the middle of darkness-in the middle of ugliness. Something so fragile, and worth so much. Something so precious. Something that definitely brings a smile to our faces.

This is how God sees us when He finds us. Each and everyone of us, just like diamonds, are unique in their own way. There may be millions of diamonds ( I recently heard they aren't as rare as people say), and there may be millions of people, but each one of us is set a part for our individual qualities, appearance, and purpose. Just as some diamonds are made into necklaces, some earrings, while others serve as engagement rings.
Both equally as important and special. Both were diamonds in the rough.

We are this way to God-so cherished and sought after. Like miners in a diamond mine, God seeks, and longs to be with us!

Don't get caught up in comparing your life or yourself to anyone else. God made you, you. And He made me, me. For a specific reason and for my own unique beauty. We aren't all the same, and God doesn't want it that way. Take time to look at the neat qualities God gave you, and see how you can use them for Him. N0ones life is any better than the next. Even something as beautiful as a diamond has flaws.

Don't doubt for one day that you are less than you are. If the mighty King created you, you HAVE to be special! Beauty is created by God- not society, so don't get hung up on how you should dress or how you are suppose to look.

The bible says we are more precious than rubies! I say, we are more precious than diamonds.
God is holding onto us like diamonds in the rough. That's how loved we are. Each one of us.

Interesting Hummingbird Facts

-Unlike other birds, a hummingbird can rotate it's wings in a circle.
Because of this special hummingbird fact, they are the only bird that can fly both forwards and backwards. They can also fly up, down, sideways, hover in one spot, or fly upside down for short distances.

-Normal flight speed is about 25 miles per hour, but they have been clocked at speeds in excess of fifty miles per hour during their courtship dives.

-During normal flight their wings beat about 60-80 times per second. In their courtship dives they might beat up to 200 times per second.

-Most hummingbirds unfortunately die during their fist year but, those that do survive that first year have an average life span of 3 to 4 years.Hummingbirds will feed 5 to eight times every hour for 30 to 60 seconds at a time.

-The large portion of a hummingbirds diet is sugar which they get from flower nectar and tree sap. They also eat insects and pollen to get protein to build muscle.



How sad that they don't live very long-I wonder if all birds die so soon!?

Paper or Plastic?

We went to check out the Coborn's grocery store last week in Hastings. It's a small town grocer, but a big deal! When we were on our way in, walking in the parking lot, we noticed these fancy white (brown) handle bags with color on them. We both noticed how nice they were and were excited to get one when we checked out.

When we got to the check out, the girl who was bagging our groceries said, "Is plastic ok mam"?, I was like "No", and I had to say it a couple of times for her to listen to me.

Well when we walked out carrying our groceries, and our one very stuffed white paper colored fancy bag, we noticed just about everyone else had plastic bags! Even families with lots of groceries. I saw one family load about 12 of those little plastic bags into their mini van! It was like being in the twilight zone. I said to Kevin, "Did you notice how she asked, "Is plastic ok mama"?, and he totally noticed that too. Our conclusion is that the fancy bags cost them and arm and a leg, and they didn't want to give them away if they didn't have to, so they found a way to do that-asking us if plastic was ok. How sly!
I mean when the girl was bagging our groceries, it was obvious our bag was bursting, we definitely needed a second bag. It was pretty funny.

But anyway, all that to say this: did you know it takes 80 million gallons of oil each year to make those plastic bags? I have become so determined to NOT take them whatsoever any longer. And I mean, they use them for everything. I'll buy chicken, ice cream, banana's, and they will put those items separately in a smaller plastic bag! I mean enough already!

I suggest you purchase the canvas bags that most grocery stores sell now. They are very cheap and very handy. Just put them in your back seat after using them, and bring them in with you to the grocery store, or Target. Some stores even offer a discount if you bring your reused bags to bag your groceries. We bring all used paper, plastic or canvas bags for all our grocery shopping.

Sometimes it's ok to take those plastic bags if you plan on reusing them for things like:
-small garbage bag liners
-dog poop bags
-school lunches (I was always embarrassed though when I had to use those for my lunch)
-carrying things to and fro

You can find ways to reuse them, but when you bring your own it is such a sense of independence, to not have to take something that comes from a source that is a trillion dollar business, and not so good for the environment.

So the next time someone asks you, "Paper or plastic"?, say, "Neither".

Our new best friend, Hazel

DSC00560.JPG, originally uploaded by ginanorma.

Where You're At

With all I've been going through with my health, one of the toughest things for me has been guilt. And trouble accepting where I'm at in this time in my life.

We all are at different places, and go through a variety of things. I know when I'm where I really would rather not be, whether it's my health, or trouble in a relationship-I get thrown off. I would prefer to not be there. I would rather not be going through it. When we go through difficult times we go through a lot of emotions and mood swings. But if you are seeking God during that time and are praying and asking Him to be with you, He will be.

He will accept you where you are at. Like for me, I have felt like I'm of no use during my recovery, like I'm a "loser". That is not God's Truth at all. But for me, it's hard to not be out in the field for Christ! I feel like I'm not making a difference. But if I stay in His presence, it changes things. I remember- and then I know He's there. He knows what I'm going through. He is with me where I'm at. He understands where I'm at. He'll work through where I'm at. God accepts me where I'm at, but I have trouble accepting that!

For my husband, he struggles with doubt. So he may not be living out the Word like he ought to. But God is with him where he's at. As long as my Husband keeps God near, and seeks Him, God will be there. As long as He moves toward God, God is there. He understands. But see where my husbands at, is OK. But God expects and wants us to mooooooove. Don't lose sight of Him even though you are in a funk! But at the same time, be OK with where you're at, because God is. And trust that one way or another, He'll bring you through. It might not be our way, or the way we want, but He will.

So if you are going through doubts, health issues, relationship burdens, or a depression, the loss of a job-He understands and is there, right where you're at. Don't be hard on yourself if things don't feel "perfect", or right with what you're going through. They don't have to be for you to have a purpose, or for God to use you.
I may be laying here recovering, but I can still praise God! And that alone is full of purpose!

Preparation H!

I'm so not kidding. Here is a fabulous tip. Do you ever have those mornings when you wake up and you didn't quite sleep well enough that nite? Or you had a late nite? Or you just don't feel good and your eyes show it? Of course you have!

Dab a little Preparation H, yes, Hemorrhoid cream--under both eyes, and you will be as good as new! There is an ingredient in it that helps with puffiness (ok, I'll give you a minute to think about that).

Anyway, it's perfectly safe, and very economical! It sounds gross, but it works, I promise you!

Happy eyes!!!

Running on Empty

When we are missing something in our lives, don’t you think we then try to find someone/something to replace it with? We try to get filled in other ways?
Don’t you think then it’s our job to not let our loved ones get to a point of empty that they are filling up on more emptiness? Isn’t it our responsibility? I would think it is. They could be running low on laughter. It could be self worth. It could be physical energy. It could be emotional exhaustion, or mental. It could be a tragedy or a heartbreak that has us running low. It could be the loss of a job, a loved one, anything. There is usually a good reason for it.

Most of the time it is something or someone that is causing us pain, or some need not being met or a disappointment we can’t get over or are experiencing. Yes, to some extent people in our lives, even our spouses are not responsible for us, but they are responsible to us, as we are to them.

Just think if everyone loved and behaved the way that God asked us to. The world would be perfect and we’d all be a lot happier, and a lot less heartbroken.

But may I suggest a middle ground? A happy medium? Even though Jesus does say-“Be perfect, as your Father in Heaven is perfect”. I don’t think we’ll accomplish that till the very end.
But, if we could provide and invest in our loved ones, especially our spouses and children, don’t you think they would be more content? Like I mean really care, invest, and take time for them.

Take time as to say we look out for their welfare. We consciously look out for them, make sure we are meeting their needs and seeing how we can help them and serve them. To make that a top priority, so that it will become a discipline in our lives. A new habit.

If we could accomplish that, or at least try for that, I think our loved ones would be less apt to indulge in things outside of God’s will. Everything from their behaviors, choices, attitudes, and even splurging on material things. They wouldn’t run as fast to bad behaviors of spending, or acting out. Most of us do those kinds of things as a cover up to something else. Something deeper that is going on that isn’t right-rooted hurt or pain.

It’s like it would be up to us for the people in our lives to be whole and happy. Content and satisfied at best. They would be satisfied in the relationship they have with us and what we are providing for them, and with that, inevitably, healthier in life.

If the people in our lives and vise versa, spent more time in investing in us and loving and serving us the way God asks, things would run a lot smoother, and we would be more fulfilled.

Of course, our One and Only being Jesus is enough for any of us, but He does use people in our life too. We are all commanded of this nurturing and loving and servant hood. We are to be a vessel of God’s, a tool and a light for others. We are to be taking initiative in developing these relationships. To be lifting others up, taking time out and spending time with them. Caring more about them, than ourselves. That is a tall order, but it is asked of us.

But we cannot be this light without God at the center. Looking for Him to use us, and accessing His Holy Power; that is what will transform our mundane, average, human hearts.
HE will give us what we need to give others what they need!
We have to pray and continue to kill off our depraved fallen selves in order to be of any good or use.

We meet in the middle, is what I like to call it. We get up in the morning, we acknowledge God and our weakness and we ask, and invite Him in, then ask Him to meet us there, and He comes. And humbly we receive His grace, mercy and guidance. He shows up. We work together. We don’t wait for God to do it all. We have to first get to the place with Him. To the throne (as I call it). Once we are there, He sees our hearts, minds, and spirit, and knows we need Him, then, once we are humbled, He is ready to work with us. He will get us to that place of serving our loved ones. He will get us to the place to where our loved ones won’t need other people or things to fulfill them, because we will be able to do it! And we can't without God! He gives us the strength, and the wisdom. We let and allow Him to change our hearts.

What is pleasing to God is when we obey Him. When we act on His word and not just read it.
If we are running on empty, of course we can turn to God to be filled and we do. But we should also, hands down, without a doubt be able to be filled by the people that say they love us.

Post Modern? Or Beautiful Metaphor?

"You are the Sun, shining down on everything.
Light of the World, giving light to everything I see.
Beauty so brilliant, I can hardly take it in,
and everywhere you are is warmth and light.
And I am a Moon with no light of my own; still you have made me to shine, and as I grow in this cold dark night, you know I can't be a light unless I turn my face to you.
Shine on me, I have no light of my own.
Shine on me, without you I'm a cold dark stone.
You know I'll never be a light
unless I turn my face to you,
I'll never be a light
until I turn my face to you,
no I can't be a light until I turn myself...to you".

Right Hand Over Her Heart

My vocabulary has never been very broad. Same with my spelling. I don't use big words and I certainly don't know how to spell them. I just learned recently what the word "allegiance" meant. The only reason I even cared or wondered in the first place was because of a song that Derek Webb wrote that sings about it. He sings about how his first allegiance is not to a flag, a country or a man. And I love that song, because he says that His first allegiance is to Christ. And I pretty much could figure out what he meant by just him singing it, but I really didn't know exactly what the word meant. So I headed to my favorite site, www.dictionary.com, and looked it up.
Once I saw the true definition, I was like, that's really cool, and realized it was a very strong statement. And especially if you are pledging allegiance to a Flag!!! (Please don't get me wrong, I am not saying I hate America or I'm anti-American, or that I don't admire the troops). But to use such a strong word, to make that statement, is crazy to me!
Even if I wasn't a Christian, and Christ didn't reign in my life, I would still find it disturbing to say "I'm completely devoted, or it's my sovereign etc etc...to a Flag or a Country". That is not what is first in my life. And when I talk or care about something, I want to do it with true intent.
So I was playing the song today in the car with my daughter. And I knew her old school/s in St.Paul didn't say the Pledge of Allegiance, (very liberal in the city), but because the song was on, I told her that if they ever do that at Hastings Middle School, to not participate! She's like "uh, Mom, we do it every Monday"! I was like "What"! I freaked out (not in a mean way), and said, "Do you even know what the word allegiance means"? She of course said, "No". I was like "Do you put your right hand on your heart and stand there and stare at the Flag"? She grinned a bit and said "Yaaa".
I was like "Nooooooo, don't tell me that"!
I went on to tell her that everything she does in her life or participates in, I want her heart to be in it. I want her to do it with meaning. I want it to matter and mean something. I don't want her growing up like I did with dead, empty rituals that meant absolutely nothing to me. I don't want her doing things without knowing why she's doing them, or what they mean. She said the school never talked about what it meant, or why they do it.
And surprisingly, Madelynn agreed when I told her not to do it, and understood why I didn't want her to. She's was all into figuring out a way she could stand (but not put her right hand on her heart), and go along with everyone else but change the words to something that meant something to her!
To stand there with her right hand over her heart, to me, is pretty serious. It matters. It matters to me, and obviously to her, that it ought to be something that she really understands, and that is important in her life. If she grows up and truely understands it and knows why she's doing it, and feels led to, and it's what she is passionate about, then that is great. But until then, it's meaningless, and I don't want her to participate.
I mean, talk about living this Christian life out, and not being conformed to the patterns of this world; this is a classic example!
So pay attention to what you are doing, to what your children are doing, and why you or they are doing it! Don't just do things if it hasn't gone from your mind to your heart. Don't do things or have your children do things just because everyone else is, or because it's common place. Or expected. Think about it. What's the meaning, what is the intent, is it in the depths of your heart? Don't be afraid to escape the mold of this world. You don't have to do anything.

Mama and Nells

Nells (look at his eyes!)

Madz & Gram 1st Day of School

First Day of 7th Grade (Madelynn & Keeley)

This Moment

I may never see tomorrow; there's no written guarantee,
And things that happened yesterday belong to history.
I cannot predict the future, and I cannot change the past.
I have just the present moment; I must treat it as my last.

I must use this moment wisely for it soon will pass away,
And be lost to me forever as a part of yesterday.
I must exercise compassion, help the fallen to their feet,
Be a friend unto the friendless, make an empty life complete.

I must make this moment precious for it will not come again,
Kind words I fail to say this day may ever be unsaid.
For I know not how short may be the path that lies ahead.

The unkind things I do today may never be undone,
And friendships that I fail to win may nevermomre be won.
I may not have another chance on bended knee to pray,
And thank my God with humble heart for giving me this day.

I may never see tomorrow, but this moment is my own.
It's mine to us or cas aside; the choice is mine, alone.
I have just this precious moment in the sunlight of today,
Where the dawning of tomorrow meets the dusk of yesterday.

Paul F. Barnett from (Ideals) Inspiration Issue/1962

It's not all about me!

Hey, I'd love for you to subscribe to my blog. My husband helped me out by adding a thing that you could add in your email address, and then you'd get an email whenever I have a new post!
It's sounds sort of vain, but I mainly wanted to have it to make it easy for you all. That way, you don't have to keep checking; I know how busy you all can get.
Thank you in advance for being interested in my life. I just want to be a positive, spiritual influence to all around me.
I also added, to my favorite links down at the bottom of the right side of the page, a site where you can go to check out what nutritional value fruits/nuts/vegtables have(under Nutrient Chart). It's a really cool site, and easy to follow and read. It's set up as a chart. I just had a plum today, and didn't feel liking getting up to grab my heavy book to find out what was in it, cuz I couldn't remember. There is another site too that has lots of healthy foods, healthy cooking etc...
Anyway, hope everyone is off to a good week! See you soon.

Nutritionist?

As I've been recovering from my Hysterectomy alllllll summer long, I've had a lot of time to think! Some, not so good; but a lot of: what will the next chapter in my life bring. I know it won't be another kid (man, can I really joke about it)? No, I can't! Anyway, or College, Seminary? Ministry full time? A Teacher? A Councelor?Adopt? Go forward with my brilliant beyond brilliant invention idea I have? Publish a book? The Body Shop at Home? A public speaker? And lastly, my newest thought, a Nutritionist?

I have many passions and things I believe in, or things I'd love to do. My mind really never stops with how I'd like to be used, and how I'm going to fulfill God's purpose for my life. I think about college, but I then think of the time and money money money. I can't see going to college or into Seminary a very wise thing to do. It almost feels selfish to take out loans for a ton of money, for myself, when there are 37 million Americans in poverty. I just don't think I could do it when I could do other things that wouldn't have to put me in unreasonable debt. But I've never been to college, and I think it would be a great, rewarding experience. All the other things I mentioned I can do without a college degree; some I'd make money (my invention, maybe my book, maybe speaking), and some I wouldn't. I think it would be awesome to do something where I could make some money. Mainly to give more back to God, and to help others.

So today when I was (laid up thinking), and watching Oprah (which I rarely watch), she had Dr.Oz on whom I'm familiar with and have a major crush on; and they were bringing awareness about stuff that I've been passionate about for over 5 years! I was so excited that it was finally being talked about. I have been talking and freaking out about this stuff with people for years. FOODS! Ask anyone that knows me well, or even a little, and I am all about "foods that heal", and high nutrient food. They brought up my favorite things that I think are so important.
They brought up the most exciting things:

INGREDIENTS TO STAY AWAY FROM: (most important)
Partially Hydrogenated Oils/Saturated Fats/Lard/Shortening
Refined Sugar/High Fructose Corn Syrup
White Flour(white bread, rice)
Canned Vegetables
FOODS/INGREDIENTS YOU WANT/NEED:
Good oils/good fat (Olive Oil, Safflower Oil, Grapeseed Oil)
Whole Grains
Water
Fresh Vegtables/Fruit
Fish

I think it was a good start for getting people aware. On Oprah they had some doctors go through a woman's kitchen, they went in her fridge and cupboards. And basically got rid of everything except her lettace and garlic. I mean most of us aren't as bad as she was, she was drinking 300 liters of pop a day! No kidding!

They did bring a lot of awareness, but my passion even goes beyond that. I believe in having no antibiotics in your dairy products, no processed foods, no MSG. I believe in no Mineral Oil on the skin, and only using God's created things from earth for our skin and bodies.

But the show did get me excited, that people are catching on now. And, while I was thinking, of course, I thought to myself, I would love to be a Nutritionist! I am already knowledegable from what I've learned on my own. I've been reading about foods for years. I love sharing what I know with people. I love helping people. I really believe in this. I looked into it, because I wondered if I'd need a 2 or 4 year actual degree. I could be doing something I'm passionate about and get paid for it, and will have not spent thousands upon thousands of dollars to get there. And better yet, I could still pursue my other gifts and passions along with this!

I found a great program online, where it's an online college. And I was right, you don't have to have a "degree". It would be a certificate, and it would take 1 year. The price is great, and I read a lot of testimonials from students. They also include a business class, to help teach you how to get started. So who knows, maybe in the next couple years you'll be coming to me for your nutrition plan! Foods are amazing, so wonderful. I think they are unbelievable how they were created and what they do for us! I will keep you posted on the journey. Who knows!

FEEL LIKE YOUR COMING DOWN WITH SOMETHING?
The most important thing your body needs is VITAMIN A! You will need 15,000 IU's per day for several days to give your system a boost. You can supplement, or you can eat CARROTS AND/OR SWEET POTATOES, you can also do CANTALOUPE, TANGERINES, MANGOS, OR APRICOTS. If you do a supplement, ACE'S (that's the name of it), is the best.

Blogging slacker!

Should I have just waited 2 more months before putting this post up? If I had, it would be a year since I've blogged! The two main reasons for being a slacker were/are my health, and just after I started this site, we started to plan for a mission trip, and that took up most of our time.
If you know me you are up to speed on my life, if not, you'll eventually know if you check in.
Madelynn was 11 when I started this blog, she's now going to be 13 in January! She went to Hilary Duff last nite, her first offical rock concert. We saw Switchfoot a few years ago at the fair, but this was at the Target Center! She said it was the best nite of her life! A dream come true!
She had a photo shoot with our favorite photographer, Ann Doetkott last week, that was fun and I'll post some photos from that.
Getting ready for 7th grade too! Until next time. . .