This has been an incredible March. For several years March has always been a special month for me. I always mark March as the month to (fill in the blank). I don't know why I chose March. Maybe March chose me.
March marks the beginning of Spring.
March is my mother's birthday.
March is the month that I ended my last relationship.
For me, March is the month of lessons and new beginnings. Not January but March. I entered 2012 with high expectations. Big dreams. Huge hopes. It is only the third month of the year and my expectations are already being met in ways that I didn't even expect. I am overwhelmed.
A few years ago in March I learned that I cannot be a vegetarian. Another year I learned that 31 days without alcohol is no big deal.
This March I learned that no matter how good a mother I think I am, I can't stop my kids from disappointing me. Honey, I was ready to give up motherhood for Lent. But God is using these circumstances to teach me patience.
This March I learned that I am stronger than I ever believed I was when I completed my first 8k in less than 53 minutes.
This March I learned that it's never to late to start over when I decided to go back to school.
This March I learned obedience when I enrolled in classes seven months earlier than I had initially planned.
This March I learned that if I take one step, God will take all the other steps.
This has been an incredible March. I'm almost sorry to see it end. But I cannot wait to see what the rest of 2012 has in store. My expectations are high.
Goodbye March!
Showing posts with label blessings. Show all posts
Showing posts with label blessings. Show all posts
Friday, March 30, 2012
Thursday, March 15, 2012
How High?
I've said since the first day of the year that my expectations for 2012 were high.
How high?
Super high.
But it doesn't matter how high my expectations are or how big my plans are ... God always manages to outdo me. He blows me out of the water every time.
For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD (Isaiah 55:8)
School wasn't even on my radar on January 1st. Now, it's the only thing I can think about. Truth be told, I thought this was going to be the year that I really learned to accept love and begin a relationship. **shrugs** I've been single for two years and I've been just fine on my own. In fact, I've learned more about myself in the past two years than I ever have.
God has a plan.
For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. (Jeremiah 29:11)
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
It's All In The Numbers
Application Fee - $50
Tuition - $3,450
Technology Fee - $45
Total - $3,545
But whatever I am now, it is all because God poured out his special favor on me—and not without results. For I have worked harder than any of the other apostles; yet it was not I but God who was working through me by his grace. (I Corinthians 15:10)
Application Fee - $0
Tuition - $2,105
Technology Fee - $0
Total - $2,105
Classes begin on April 2nd.
Never underestimate God and how He works. I’ll have to do a video to explain how this miracle came about. But for right now all I can say is: God is good!
Tuition - $3,450
Technology Fee - $45
Total - $3,545
But whatever I am now, it is all because God poured out his special favor on me—and not without results. For I have worked harder than any of the other apostles; yet it was not I but God who was working through me by his grace. (I Corinthians 15:10)
Application Fee - $0
Tuition - $2,105
Technology Fee - $0
Total - $2,105
Classes begin on April 2nd.
Never underestimate God and how He works. I’ll have to do a video to explain how this miracle came about. But for right now all I can say is: God is good!
Friday, December 16, 2011
Inspiration
I posted this on FB but also wanted to share it here because I find it amazing. You know how you just go about your business, living your life? You try to do the right thing, treat people the way you want to be treated … you know, just doing you. Well, what you may not realize is that in your quest to just do you, you are making an impact on someone else’s life. Someone is always watching.
This morning before 8:30 am, I was told that I was “amazing”, “awesome”, “remarkable” and “an inspiration”. This came from three different people who do not know each other.
Huh? What? Who in the world are these people talking about?
Seriously, I was overwhelmed and confused.
I’m no one special and I don’t do anything special. I’m just trying to do me.
I have wonderful people in my life and I am so blessed. I recognize my blessings every day and every day before I even get out of the bed, I am thanking God for all He’s done and for all that he is doing in my life.
Inspiration is a funny thing because it can come from anywhere or from anyone.
Here’s hoping you have a wonderfully, inspiring weekend!
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Still Happy?
Yesterday I had my bi-weekly catch up meeting with my Manager. Nothing earth shattering, just going over what’s on my desk. Do I have any specific concerns. Yada yada yada. At the end of the meeting he asked me, “So, are you still happy?” I shrugged my shoulders and said, “As long as my mortgage is paid and I can buy groceries every week I’m ecstatic.”
Hmmmmm
I really hate that that was my response. Because the truth is, I’m not happy and I’m certainly not ecstatic. I’m grateful. But not happy. Another truth is, I'm not leaving my current employer to go to another employer. I want to be the employer.
Either there is something else out there for me or I have to change my attitude about where I am.
I believe that God wants me to live an abundant life (John 10:10). I know that God wants to bless my life (Deuteronomy 28).
But here’s “the gotcha”: From God’s perspective is my life already blessed and am I already living abundantly?
From my perspective, things are satisfactory. Things are acceptable. But not overwhelming. God promises that He will open the windows of Heaven and pour me out a blessing so great that I won’t even have enough room to receive it (Malachi 3:10). I’m not there yet.
So I guess that’s the answer. There is something else out there, but I also need to have a better attitude about what I’ve already been blessed with.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Blessings in Odd Places
I absolutely love when a plan comes together. Nothing gives me greater satisfaction. I take the time to plan something and then I watch as all the pieces slowly come together. It’s such a rush.
I find it even more fascinating when something wonderful happens and I had nothing at all to do with it. No plan, no execution, nothing. Just BOOM! There it is.
Let me tell you a story.
Back in the summer of 2008 I began writing restaurant reviews for this magazine . I am a writer after all but I hadn’t really written anything significant for a while and I felt that this was a good opportunity. My former S/O hooked me up with the editor of the mag and we developed a list of places to review. I had no idea what I was doing but I figured it out and finally fell into a groove.
I really enjoyed it at first. I didn’t mind that I wasn’t being paid or that I had to pay for my own meals, gas and mileage. What I did mind, was that my reviews needed to be slanted in a positive way. You see, the editor’s goal was for me to write something good about these places so they would in turn buy advertising from him. Also, if you flip through some of the pages of the magazine and look at some of the pictures … well, if you know me, you’d know that the places he wanted me to go were not places that I would generally frequent. It wasn't even really about the food, it was more about the party. The magazine is geared to a younger audience and let’s face it, I’m over 40. And the editor was older me.
Anyway, I pressed on because it was a writing opportunity.
After about a year I decided it was time to move on. The assignments were becoming more demanding and the byline just wasn’t worth it to me anymore. But I still wanted to write the reviews. My love for writing about food had increased significantly. I played with the idea of soliciting other magazines or newspapers to try and get a paying gig but then it hit me: it’s not about money, it’s about eating and writing. That was when I decided that I could just do this on my own and Delicious! was born.
I could go where I want. I could be completely honest about my experience. I could write or not write whenever the spirit moved me. I wrote my first review on July 8, 2009 and I haven’t looked back. I get real pleasure out of eating and describing puttanesca sauce or a vitello saltimbocca. Some of the places are fancy and some are just dives and I’m having a ball doing this. There is no pressure and it is truly something that I love to do.
Fast forward to Monday, December 13, 2010 and I receive an email from a local sous chef and culinary professor. In her email she tells me that my former S/O gave her the link to my food blog and she asked me if it would be okay if she used it in her culinary classes as a teaching aide.
She says:
I would use your blog for:
1. Plate presentations from local area chefs
2. How you describe the entrees, apps and desserts
3. Flavor profiles that local area chefs use
Students do not have the money to try all these restaurants so it is good that you take them there.
How sweet is that? She has also invited me to visit her classroom to taste her student’s assignments and provide feedback. I mentioned to her that my daughter was very interested in the culinary arts and would it be okay if I brought her along. She agreed.
I never thought my little food blog would help anyone in this way. Kinda gives me a warm and fuzzy. Especially, since one of my prayers is that God will put me in a position where I can be of service. I certainly did not expect this. I’m just eating and writing and trying not to get fat and look what happened? There are about 40 reviews on the site right now and yesterday I made a list of restaurants to visit in 2011 and I can’t wait to hit the first one.
I love when a non-plan comes together.
I find it even more fascinating when something wonderful happens and I had nothing at all to do with it. No plan, no execution, nothing. Just BOOM! There it is.
Let me tell you a story.
Back in the summer of 2008 I began writing restaurant reviews for this magazine . I am a writer after all but I hadn’t really written anything significant for a while and I felt that this was a good opportunity. My former S/O hooked me up with the editor of the mag and we developed a list of places to review. I had no idea what I was doing but I figured it out and finally fell into a groove.
I really enjoyed it at first. I didn’t mind that I wasn’t being paid or that I had to pay for my own meals, gas and mileage. What I did mind, was that my reviews needed to be slanted in a positive way. You see, the editor’s goal was for me to write something good about these places so they would in turn buy advertising from him. Also, if you flip through some of the pages of the magazine and look at some of the pictures … well, if you know me, you’d know that the places he wanted me to go were not places that I would generally frequent. It wasn't even really about the food, it was more about the party. The magazine is geared to a younger audience and let’s face it, I’m over 40. And the editor was older me.
Anyway, I pressed on because it was a writing opportunity.
After about a year I decided it was time to move on. The assignments were becoming more demanding and the byline just wasn’t worth it to me anymore. But I still wanted to write the reviews. My love for writing about food had increased significantly. I played with the idea of soliciting other magazines or newspapers to try and get a paying gig but then it hit me: it’s not about money, it’s about eating and writing. That was when I decided that I could just do this on my own and Delicious! was born.
I could go where I want. I could be completely honest about my experience. I could write or not write whenever the spirit moved me. I wrote my first review on July 8, 2009 and I haven’t looked back. I get real pleasure out of eating and describing puttanesca sauce or a vitello saltimbocca. Some of the places are fancy and some are just dives and I’m having a ball doing this. There is no pressure and it is truly something that I love to do.
Fast forward to Monday, December 13, 2010 and I receive an email from a local sous chef and culinary professor. In her email she tells me that my former S/O gave her the link to my food blog and she asked me if it would be okay if she used it in her culinary classes as a teaching aide.
She says:
I would use your blog for:
1. Plate presentations from local area chefs
2. How you describe the entrees, apps and desserts
3. Flavor profiles that local area chefs use
Students do not have the money to try all these restaurants so it is good that you take them there.
How sweet is that? She has also invited me to visit her classroom to taste her student’s assignments and provide feedback. I mentioned to her that my daughter was very interested in the culinary arts and would it be okay if I brought her along. She agreed.
I never thought my little food blog would help anyone in this way. Kinda gives me a warm and fuzzy. Especially, since one of my prayers is that God will put me in a position where I can be of service. I certainly did not expect this. I’m just eating and writing and trying not to get fat and look what happened? There are about 40 reviews on the site right now and yesterday I made a list of restaurants to visit in 2011 and I can’t wait to hit the first one.
I love when a non-plan comes together.
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Making Progress
I came home from work yesterday and decided to tackle the clutter removal. I successfully emptied one of the nightstands. Among other things, I came across some photographs. There was one of my first husband who I haven't seen in about 19 years. There was one of my first boyfriend who haven't seen in about 28 years. There was one of my last boyfriend who I haven't seen in about 4-1/2 months. I had the same reaction when I looked at all of them. And that was no reaction.
Now, that's progress!
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
A/C Update
Yeah, so did I mention that all I needed was a $6 air filter?I replaced the entire system two years ago to the tune of about $4,000, plus three nights in a hotel ... so I'll take a $6 air filter any day.
Have you changed your air filter lately?
Friday, July 9, 2010
Sweet
No longer a pedestrian!Blessings abound. Not only did the insurance company offer me considerably more than I anticipated for my vehicle but the credit union offered me more than I needed to shop with at a ridiculously low rate. So I was able to pay off my car and have something left over. I stayed within my self-imposed limit and drove my car home this morning.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
The Second Half
When I was in my teens I wondered if I would ever get a boyfriend. All my friends seemed to be more experienced in that area and I was kind of on the outskirts. Then when I was a sophomore in high school we moved to a more culturally balanced (read: more Black folks) area and I never wondered about having a boyfriend again.
When I was in my twenties I wondered if I would get married. To think about it now it seems ridiculous to be concerned with such a thing in your twenties. I wasn’t ready to get married. But I did. Twice. Once when I was twenty-six and then again when I was twenty-eight.
When I was in my thirties I wondered if I would ever get out of debt. I worried constantly about money and I wondered if I would ever build a life for myself and my children that we could be proud of. My financial situation completely turned around and I bought my first home when I turned 38.
I’m in my forties now and I wonder about the second half of my life. In the first half I was primarily concerned with men and money. Relationships and finances. While these areas aren’t necessarily on auto-pilot, my mind is not constantly consumed with getting a man or paying the mortgage.
I did not make many plans during the first half of my life. I lived day-to-day and I allowed the chips to fall wherever they would. I lived in reactive mode. Stuff happened and I reacted to it. I’ve always been a survivor. It’s one of my better skills.
I’m planning for the second half. I want to live in proactive mode. Realistically, I could live for another 45 years and if I plan carefully, it could be so sweet. The plan is to not just survive but to live. I don’t want work in this office building until the day I keel over. It’s a good job and I’m going to use it to finance my next career: business ownership.
I’ve always been a “quick-fast-and-in-a-hurry” kind of gal. I have to suppress those tendencies if I want this to work. I have to invoke the patience that I so often preach about. If it were up to me I’d be turning the key on my business tomorrow. But I want to take my time and do this right. I want to build something that I can be proud of. I want to live the second half of my life in peace. Out of the rat race and away from the office politics.
I’m so looking forward to the second half.
**Dee In SanDiego – I have yet to receive your info so I can send the book.**
When I was in my twenties I wondered if I would get married. To think about it now it seems ridiculous to be concerned with such a thing in your twenties. I wasn’t ready to get married. But I did. Twice. Once when I was twenty-six and then again when I was twenty-eight.
When I was in my thirties I wondered if I would ever get out of debt. I worried constantly about money and I wondered if I would ever build a life for myself and my children that we could be proud of. My financial situation completely turned around and I bought my first home when I turned 38.
I’m in my forties now and I wonder about the second half of my life. In the first half I was primarily concerned with men and money. Relationships and finances. While these areas aren’t necessarily on auto-pilot, my mind is not constantly consumed with getting a man or paying the mortgage.
I did not make many plans during the first half of my life. I lived day-to-day and I allowed the chips to fall wherever they would. I lived in reactive mode. Stuff happened and I reacted to it. I’ve always been a survivor. It’s one of my better skills.
I’m planning for the second half. I want to live in proactive mode. Realistically, I could live for another 45 years and if I plan carefully, it could be so sweet. The plan is to not just survive but to live. I don’t want work in this office building until the day I keel over. It’s a good job and I’m going to use it to finance my next career: business ownership.
I’ve always been a “quick-fast-and-in-a-hurry” kind of gal. I have to suppress those tendencies if I want this to work. I have to invoke the patience that I so often preach about. If it were up to me I’d be turning the key on my business tomorrow. But I want to take my time and do this right. I want to build something that I can be proud of. I want to live the second half of my life in peace. Out of the rat race and away from the office politics.
I’m so looking forward to the second half.
**Dee In SanDiego – I have yet to receive your info so I can send the book.**
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep
Remember that? It was the first prayer that I ever learned …
Now I lay me down to sleep
I pray the Lord my soul to keep
If I should die before I wake
I pray the Lord my soul to take
God Bless Mommy, Daddy …
And a whole list of other people.
As I got older I didn’t pray as much because I told myself that I didn’t know how. After I moved to Boston I learned quickly how to cry out to God.
Get me outta this mess!
Lord, if you save me from this, I swear I’ll be in church every week!
Help!
My prayers had turned into constant cries for help. I made bargains with God on a regular basis. After I left Boston and moved back to Connecticut me and God didn’t really talk that much except for the occasional time that I would thank Him for the food I was about to receive.
I don’t think it was until after I got divorced the first time in 1990 that I started to have regular talks with God. Looking back on it, if I had consulted Him before I got married … things may have been different. Anyway, after that I spoke to God a lot. I asked Him for help with my son. I asked Him for help in my finances. I asked Him for everything.
That was our relationship. Me taking and Him giving. Sounds a little lopsided, don’t you think?
Then at some point I began to realize that God would not only provide me with material or tangible things but He would also provide the intangible things like,
Peace (Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. John 14:27)
and comfort (I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you John 14:18)
and strength (The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower. Psalms 18:2).
Then I realized that nothing could separate me from His love. I am always protected. Even when I didn’t know I was protected, He was right there.
Now, my prayers are more personal and more frequent. They are conversations. It’s more me thanking Him and giving Him praise. I have every material thing I need, so these days I ask for things like wisdom and guidance. I ask Him to bless the ones I love. I thank Him for just being God.
Prayer comes easier these days. When you know who you are and more importantly, whose you are, it’s very easy to be grateful for the gift of life. It’s easy to not get so caught up in the day to day. It’s easy to just … be.
The following is from The Message version of the Bible. Romans 8:31-39:
So, what do you think? With God on our side like this, how can we lose? If God didn't hesitate to put everything on the line for us, embracing our condition and exposing himself to the worst by sending his own Son, is there anything else he wouldn't gladly and freely do for us? And who would dare tangle with God by messing with one of God's chosen? Who would dare even to point a finger? The One who died for us—who was raised to life for us!—is in the presence of God at this very moment sticking up for us. Do you think anyone is going to be able to drive a wedge between us and Christ's love for us? There is no way! Not trouble, not hard times, not hatred, not hunger, not homelessness, not bullying threats, not backstabbing, not even the worst sins listed in Scripture: They kill us in cold blood because they hate you. We're sitting ducks; they pick us off one by one. None of this fazes us because Jesus loves us. I'm absolutely convinced that nothing—nothing living or dead, angelic or demonic, today or tomorrow, high or low, thinkable or unthinkable—absolutely nothing can get between us and God's love because of the way that Jesus our Master has embraced us.
Enough said.
Now I lay me down to sleep
I pray the Lord my soul to keep
If I should die before I wake
I pray the Lord my soul to take
God Bless Mommy, Daddy …
And a whole list of other people.
As I got older I didn’t pray as much because I told myself that I didn’t know how. After I moved to Boston I learned quickly how to cry out to God.
Get me outta this mess!
Lord, if you save me from this, I swear I’ll be in church every week!
Help!
My prayers had turned into constant cries for help. I made bargains with God on a regular basis. After I left Boston and moved back to Connecticut me and God didn’t really talk that much except for the occasional time that I would thank Him for the food I was about to receive.
I don’t think it was until after I got divorced the first time in 1990 that I started to have regular talks with God. Looking back on it, if I had consulted Him before I got married … things may have been different. Anyway, after that I spoke to God a lot. I asked Him for help with my son. I asked Him for help in my finances. I asked Him for everything.
That was our relationship. Me taking and Him giving. Sounds a little lopsided, don’t you think?
Then at some point I began to realize that God would not only provide me with material or tangible things but He would also provide the intangible things like,
Peace (Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. John 14:27)
and comfort (I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you John 14:18)
and strength (The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower. Psalms 18:2).
Then I realized that nothing could separate me from His love. I am always protected. Even when I didn’t know I was protected, He was right there.
Now, my prayers are more personal and more frequent. They are conversations. It’s more me thanking Him and giving Him praise. I have every material thing I need, so these days I ask for things like wisdom and guidance. I ask Him to bless the ones I love. I thank Him for just being God.
Prayer comes easier these days. When you know who you are and more importantly, whose you are, it’s very easy to be grateful for the gift of life. It’s easy to not get so caught up in the day to day. It’s easy to just … be.
The following is from The Message version of the Bible. Romans 8:31-39:
So, what do you think? With God on our side like this, how can we lose? If God didn't hesitate to put everything on the line for us, embracing our condition and exposing himself to the worst by sending his own Son, is there anything else he wouldn't gladly and freely do for us? And who would dare tangle with God by messing with one of God's chosen? Who would dare even to point a finger? The One who died for us—who was raised to life for us!—is in the presence of God at this very moment sticking up for us. Do you think anyone is going to be able to drive a wedge between us and Christ's love for us? There is no way! Not trouble, not hard times, not hatred, not hunger, not homelessness, not bullying threats, not backstabbing, not even the worst sins listed in Scripture: They kill us in cold blood because they hate you. We're sitting ducks; they pick us off one by one. None of this fazes us because Jesus loves us. I'm absolutely convinced that nothing—nothing living or dead, angelic or demonic, today or tomorrow, high or low, thinkable or unthinkable—absolutely nothing can get between us and God's love because of the way that Jesus our Master has embraced us.
Enough said.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
The Day in Pictures
As expected, once I got started it was fun all over again. But I would not have gotten into the kitchen without my Princess helping me. Her own excitement and willingness to help me really encouraged me to do what I already love to do. And she got some lessons to boot!
She did the sweet potato pies.
Monday, April 27, 2009
It's Monday Again
It's 6:30 a.m.
I have a doctor's appointment today and then I'm going to work the rest of the day from home. After the weekend I had I'm not sure how effective I would be at the office anyway. The weekend was wonderful as it was the first really warm weekend of the season and I love the warm weather. Except that my practically brand new AC system decided not to work ... this is the second time these guys are going to have to come out here and flip a switch or do whatever they do. Good thing it's April and not August. I don't want a repeat of last year when I spent four days in a hotel because I couldn't bear the 100 degree heat in my house. So far, the inside has only gotten up to 84 degrees. Right now it's 77.
Did anyone see Obs.essed over the weekend? My daughter saw it with a friend of hers and she said it was an okay movie. I'll probably still wait for the DVD. I did watch Mi.lk on demand on Saturday night. I love Se.an Pe.nn. Just love him.
Yesterday's message at church was a powerful one. The pastor spoke about letting go of the past and freeing ourselves to live the life that God has intended for us. God intends for us to live abundantly but so many of us are willing to settle for "just enough". Ever go to church and feel like the message is for you? Like after every sentence the pastor should be saying your name? That's how I felt yesterday. I know I hold on to things for way too long and it has completely blocked me from certain things that should have been mine years ago. It all starts with the renewing of your/my mind. There is no benefit in holding on to past hurts or disappointments. Don't negate them but learn to accept and let go. That is the only way we can move forward. You with me?
I have a doctor's appointment today and then I'm going to work the rest of the day from home. After the weekend I had I'm not sure how effective I would be at the office anyway. The weekend was wonderful as it was the first really warm weekend of the season and I love the warm weather. Except that my practically brand new AC system decided not to work ... this is the second time these guys are going to have to come out here and flip a switch or do whatever they do. Good thing it's April and not August. I don't want a repeat of last year when I spent four days in a hotel because I couldn't bear the 100 degree heat in my house. So far, the inside has only gotten up to 84 degrees. Right now it's 77.
Did anyone see Obs.essed over the weekend? My daughter saw it with a friend of hers and she said it was an okay movie. I'll probably still wait for the DVD. I did watch Mi.lk on demand on Saturday night. I love Se.an Pe.nn. Just love him.
Yesterday's message at church was a powerful one. The pastor spoke about letting go of the past and freeing ourselves to live the life that God has intended for us. God intends for us to live abundantly but so many of us are willing to settle for "just enough". Ever go to church and feel like the message is for you? Like after every sentence the pastor should be saying your name? That's how I felt yesterday. I know I hold on to things for way too long and it has completely blocked me from certain things that should have been mine years ago. It all starts with the renewing of your/my mind. There is no benefit in holding on to past hurts or disappointments. Don't negate them but learn to accept and let go. That is the only way we can move forward. You with me?
Monday, February 2, 2009
Happy Ground Hog Day!
As a kid growing up in the northeast I really paid attention to Ground Hog day. By February 2nd, we had alreay had our fill of winter and I wanted to know how much longer I would have to endure it. I guess I've never really been a cold weather girl.
I have to choose a restaurant and a wine bar to review for this month. The wine bars are pretty scarce so that decision will be easy. But the restaurants ... choosing a place is going to be a pain, especially this month because of Valentine's Day. Who are the people that are crowding these restaurants for this holiday? Geez. We go out to eat so often, we try to stay out of the restaurants on that night.
I heard something in church yesterday that really had me thinking. We talk about living life to the fullest but how many mornings out of the week do you open your eyes and say something like, "Oh no, not another day!" Isn't that crazy? I do it all the time. I've got to work on changing that. After all, I wouldn't prefer the alternative. The fact that we can open our eyes and start another day is a blessing and I/we should treat it as such. Too many people didn't wake up this morning and I count myself lucky to be one of the ones that did.
So let's enjoy this Monday.
I have to choose a restaurant and a wine bar to review for this month. The wine bars are pretty scarce so that decision will be easy. But the restaurants ... choosing a place is going to be a pain, especially this month because of Valentine's Day. Who are the people that are crowding these restaurants for this holiday? Geez. We go out to eat so often, we try to stay out of the restaurants on that night.
I heard something in church yesterday that really had me thinking. We talk about living life to the fullest but how many mornings out of the week do you open your eyes and say something like, "Oh no, not another day!" Isn't that crazy? I do it all the time. I've got to work on changing that. After all, I wouldn't prefer the alternative. The fact that we can open our eyes and start another day is a blessing and I/we should treat it as such. Too many people didn't wake up this morning and I count myself lucky to be one of the ones that did.
So let's enjoy this Monday.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
How Sweet It Is
Gas is so low I can't fit $40 in my tank.
My daughter voluntarily stayed after school for extra help.
My son has an A-average as a freshman in college.
I'm starting a new job.
Life is good.
My daughter voluntarily stayed after school for extra help.
My son has an A-average as a freshman in college.
I'm starting a new job.
Life is good.
Friday, October 17, 2008
it IS easier
"What are you gonna do today?" asks my son.
"I'm going to make a pot of chicken noodle soup and then B and I are going to catch a matinee."
He chuckles to himself. "You have such an exciting life."
"Maybe not but it's MY birthday and I can do whatever I want."
"I know but I'll bet when you were 18 excitement didn't mean chicken noodle soup."
"You're right. But I'm at the point where what makes me happiest is being in my home. Comfort and security are the things that turn me on."
"You've lived two of my lifetimes."
"I know. The first 18 years were easy. The second 18 were hard as hell ... but now ... it's starting to get easier."
It really is getting easier. I love where I am right now. I'm healthy and happy and what else could I possibly ask for? I am so blessed.
I read "I Fall to Pieces" yesterday, which is the personalized not-so-short short story penned by the incomparable LadyLee and even though it was a complete work of fiction the one thing that was real was the fact that I have a man who loves me. Really loves me. He spends quite a bit of time tap dancing on my last nerve but I wouldn't trade him in for anything in this world. Thanks for the story, OldGirl. I absolutely loved it and it's definitely one of the most thoughtful gifts I have ever received. It made me think.
My son bought me the JHud CD and I'm really feeling it except I think the duet with Fan.tasia is wack.
I'm off to enjoy my day. Love you guys!
"I'm going to make a pot of chicken noodle soup and then B and I are going to catch a matinee."
He chuckles to himself. "You have such an exciting life."
"Maybe not but it's MY birthday and I can do whatever I want."
"I know but I'll bet when you were 18 excitement didn't mean chicken noodle soup."
"You're right. But I'm at the point where what makes me happiest is being in my home. Comfort and security are the things that turn me on."
"You've lived two of my lifetimes."
"I know. The first 18 years were easy. The second 18 were hard as hell ... but now ... it's starting to get easier."
It really is getting easier. I love where I am right now. I'm healthy and happy and what else could I possibly ask for? I am so blessed.
I read "I Fall to Pieces" yesterday, which is the personalized not-so-short short story penned by the incomparable LadyLee and even though it was a complete work of fiction the one thing that was real was the fact that I have a man who loves me. Really loves me. He spends quite a bit of time tap dancing on my last nerve but I wouldn't trade him in for anything in this world. Thanks for the story, OldGirl. I absolutely loved it and it's definitely one of the most thoughtful gifts I have ever received. It made me think.
My son bought me the JHud CD and I'm really feeling it except I think the duet with Fan.tasia is wack.
I'm off to enjoy my day. Love you guys!
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
A Day of Firsts
- My daughter's first day of high school
- My son's first checking account that he opened without any assistance from me
- The first time my guy heard me say, "Fine, let's get married tomorrow.
Monday, May 12, 2008
It's About the Faith
I did something today that I haven't done in quite some time. I sat and watched Christian television. I have to admit, had my DVR been working I would have watched today's episode of Oprah. But it wasn't, so I didn't. I watched Kirk Cameron, T.D. Jakes, Joyce Meyer, Ed Young. Watching this channel brought so many things back to my mind. I am a Christian. A Bible-believing Christian. I remember the days when I would call on God and He would answer me. I remember not knowing how I was going to make it and God showed me the way. I remember praying for safety, and being safe. I remember praying for emotional healing and being healed. I remember all that.
Somewhere along the line, when I reached a certain place ... a certain level ... I decided that I didn't need to call on God as much. I didn't talk to to God as often. What happens when you once have a close relationship with someone and then you stop speaking to them as often as you once did? Do you have friends that only call you when they need something? Conversations that used to take place daily now only occur weekly or even monthly. What happens to those relationships? They seem to lose their meaning ...
I have been going through some things lately. I can't put my finger on it. I can't blame my job, or my relationship, or my kids, or my family ... I just feel like something is looming close by. Something negative is surrounding me and I feel it closing in.
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour (1 Peter 5:8)
And I feel as though something is waiting to pounce. I haven't been alert or vigilant. I've been walking around feeling sorry for myself. Arrrrrrrgh!!!!!!! I know better than this.
I used to read my Bible everyday and it was always more than just words on a page. Tears would fall from my eyes as I would read about the love of God. That's a powerful thing especially when you don't particularly feel loved in your everyday life. To know that God loves me would erase all the garbage of the day. I wouldn't even notice the garbage (as much) because I was so joy filled.
Then something happened and I stopped reading as much. I allowed church people to discourage me. I convinced myself that I had so much Word in me that I didn't need anymore. I laugh now because that's probably one of the dumbest things that I've ever thought. There are many familiar scriptures to me but not nearly enough. Because if there were, I'd have a scripture to call on each time I needed encouragement or comfort. I'm embarrassed about the length of time it took me to find the above scripture. Thank God for bible.com.
What happend to me? I used to have blind faith. I used to have the faith the size of a mustard seed. I began to intellectualize my faith. I didn't question it because I've always had it but I allowed it to slip into the background. Intellectually, I know that no matter what I'm going through God is with me. But if I really felt it in my bones I wouldn't react to small things in the manner in which I do. I wouldn't declare to anyone that will listen how much I hate my job. I'm lucky to have to a job that allows me to raise my children alone. Truthfully.
People talk all the time about the value of counting your blessings and we automatically go for the tangible blessings. It's easy to do that. We can be so lazy, can't we? I'm challenging myself to dig deeper. Someone told me recently, that whatever I focus on will grow. For example, all I've been focusing on is hatred for my job. So it grows. When I used to focus on being broke ... I stayed broke. This is not the life that God has planned for me.
The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destory: I am come that they might have life, and they might have it more abundantly. (John 10:10)
God wants me to have an abundant life. A life filled with joy, contentment, peace. I need to accept this and stop analyzing every daggone thing.
Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. (John 14:27)
Somewhere along the line, when I reached a certain place ... a certain level ... I decided that I didn't need to call on God as much. I didn't talk to to God as often. What happens when you once have a close relationship with someone and then you stop speaking to them as often as you once did? Do you have friends that only call you when they need something? Conversations that used to take place daily now only occur weekly or even monthly. What happens to those relationships? They seem to lose their meaning ...
I have been going through some things lately. I can't put my finger on it. I can't blame my job, or my relationship, or my kids, or my family ... I just feel like something is looming close by. Something negative is surrounding me and I feel it closing in.
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour (1 Peter 5:8)
And I feel as though something is waiting to pounce. I haven't been alert or vigilant. I've been walking around feeling sorry for myself. Arrrrrrrgh!!!!!!! I know better than this.
I used to read my Bible everyday and it was always more than just words on a page. Tears would fall from my eyes as I would read about the love of God. That's a powerful thing especially when you don't particularly feel loved in your everyday life. To know that God loves me would erase all the garbage of the day. I wouldn't even notice the garbage (as much) because I was so joy filled.
Then something happened and I stopped reading as much. I allowed church people to discourage me. I convinced myself that I had so much Word in me that I didn't need anymore. I laugh now because that's probably one of the dumbest things that I've ever thought. There are many familiar scriptures to me but not nearly enough. Because if there were, I'd have a scripture to call on each time I needed encouragement or comfort. I'm embarrassed about the length of time it took me to find the above scripture. Thank God for bible.com.
What happend to me? I used to have blind faith. I used to have the faith the size of a mustard seed. I began to intellectualize my faith. I didn't question it because I've always had it but I allowed it to slip into the background. Intellectually, I know that no matter what I'm going through God is with me. But if I really felt it in my bones I wouldn't react to small things in the manner in which I do. I wouldn't declare to anyone that will listen how much I hate my job. I'm lucky to have to a job that allows me to raise my children alone. Truthfully.
People talk all the time about the value of counting your blessings and we automatically go for the tangible blessings. It's easy to do that. We can be so lazy, can't we? I'm challenging myself to dig deeper. Someone told me recently, that whatever I focus on will grow. For example, all I've been focusing on is hatred for my job. So it grows. When I used to focus on being broke ... I stayed broke. This is not the life that God has planned for me.
The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destory: I am come that they might have life, and they might have it more abundantly. (John 10:10)
God wants me to have an abundant life. A life filled with joy, contentment, peace. I need to accept this and stop analyzing every daggone thing.
Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. (John 14:27)
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