Life on the Vine

Our Prince of Peace

2010-12-14T12:03:00.000-08:00

Trouble in Paradise....

2009-06-01T14:44:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine recently sent me the link to the following article. I was disturbed, to say the least, as I have always been a big fan of "Jon & Kate Plus Eight." Upon viewing this season's premier, I found myself disgusted at the whole situation and a little disenchanted. I also felt convicted after reading this quote:

"Sexual immorality—whether actual or merely suspected—caught our attention, but the materialism, narcissism, and exploitation of children that preceded it was largely overlooked."

The Gospel and the Gosselins
Evangelicals and the making of Jon & Kate Plus Eight.
Julie Vermeer Elliott | posted 6/01/2009 11:04AM

If you have recently stood in line at the grocery store and glanced at the tabloid covers, chances are you have seen the faces of reality TV stars Jon and Kate Gosselin. Jon and Kate are stars of the wildly popular TLC show Jon & Kate Plus Eight, which documents the life of this Pennsylvania couple as they raise their eight children, 8-year-old twins and 5-year-old sextuplets. Until recently, Jon and Kate were celebrated as models of wholesome family values. Sure, they bickered a lot, but they were committed to staying together for the long haul. Indeed, last season featured them renewing their wedding vows on the beach in Hawaii. Such commitment endeared them to the watching public and made them TLC's most profitable commodity.

Of all the viewers who followed the Gosselins, evangelicals were among the most faithful. Jon and Kate's refusal to resort to "selective reduction" when they found themselves pregnant with sextuplets, their membership in an Assemblies of God church, and their Isaiah 40:31 T-shirts all helped to make them icons of evangelical piety. Churches from across the country clamored to be added to their speaking tours. In the last two years the vast majority of Jon and Kate's presentations took place at Christian conferences or at evangelical churches, most often Baptist, nondenominational or charismatic.

Zondervan, one of the foremost evangelical presses, published two books with the Gosselins, both of which hit the New York Times bestseller list. The popular tongue-in-cheek blog Stuff Christians Like listed "Watching Jon and Kate Plus 8" on its list of favored Christian products or activities. Evangelicals dependably tuned in to the television show as the family received free trips to posh resorts, when the couple underwent plastic surgery, and when they moved from a comfortable house in the suburbs to a sprawling estate in the country. If they noticed that Jon and Kate's family and friends—most notably Aunt Jodi and Beth—were, one by one, being estranged from the family (reportedly over financial disputes), it did not stop believers from looking to this couple for inspiration on how to be a good Christian family.

Then everything changed. Reports surfaced that Jon was out partying with co-eds and getting too friendly with a 23-year-old teacher. Shortly thereafter the tabloids claimed that Kate was having an affair with her bodyguard and that she had given Jon the go-ahead to see other women, as long as he showed up for filming. The truthfulness of all of these claims has yet to be established. But one thing is clear—the marriage is crumbling. In fact, on the season five premiere, which aired on Memorial Day, the couple expressed no love for one another and made no promises about being together in the future. Both appeared ready to file for divorce.

Viewers, and especially evangelical viewers, are aghast. How could such a loving, Christian family disintegrate so quickly? Is the failure of their marriage due to the stress of parenting multiples? Can it be attributed to Kate's love of celebrity versus Jon's desire to retreat from the limelight? Might it be the result of living under constant (albeit self-imposed) surveillance? I suspect that each of these theories tell part of the story. But the story that has not been told is the one that sees in Jon and Kate the shortcomings of evangelical piety itself.

We evangelicals tend to be easily impressed. We cheered on Jon and Kate's decision to carry all six babies to term but rarely considered the prior question: Was it right for them to undergo risky fertility treatments in the first place? They had been married only a matter of months when Kate, who was in her mid-20s at the time, took fertility medication to stimulate her ovaries for intrauterine insemination and became pregnant with their twins, Cara and Mady.

Only a few years later, Kate's ovaries were stimulated once again, but this time they were hyper-stimulated. Warned by their doctor during an ultrasound examination that the fertility medication had worked a little too well and that four mature follicles were present, Jon and Kate nonetheless went ahead with the insemination. Apparently their doctor had miscounted on that fateful day, because Kate soon discovered that she was pregnant with seven embryos (one of which miscarried a short time later). Six babies were growing in a space designed for one, posing great risks to the life of each baby as well as to the life of their mother. Faced with this unintended but preventable situation, Jon and Kate were right to carry all of the babies to term. But this decision is not enough to warrant their status as models of Christian faithfulness. That most evangelicals were satisfied to celebrate the end—six miraculous lives—rather than assess the morality of the means whereby those lives were created, betrays the thinness of evangelical reflection on reproductive ethics. Too often our ethics have focused so singularly on the question of abortion that we have given comparatively little attention to the morally-significant issues surrounding infertility, reproductive technology, childbirth, and parenting. As such, we have a hard time challenging the assumptions of our consumerist culture or those who, like Jon and Kate, seem to be beholden to it.

As fellow Christians, we should have reminded the Gosselins that life is a gift to be received in gratitude, not something to be grasped, purchased, or sold. In many ways, the last four seasons of Jon & Kate Plus Eight is the story of a family that seemed to progressively lose sight of this truth. Of course, they had help along the way from TLC, from the show's producers, and not least of all, from their Christian viewers.

When the first few episodes revealed the earning potential of this "everyday family," Jon & Kate Plus Eight became a brand name that was packaged and sold. And many Christians were happy to comply by opening up their wallets and their fellowship halls. When the network and the couple were not satisfied with the money generated through high ratings and book sales, the Gosselin home was filled with product placements and the children were filmed for long hours each week. All the while many (though not all) evangelicals watched with undiscerning eyes. Somewhere along the line we, like Jon and Kate, seemed to forget the warnings of 1 Timothy 6:9-10 - "But those who want to be rich fall into temptation and are trapped by many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, and in their eagerness to be rich some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pains." (NRSV)
It was not until the recent allegations of sexual impropriety arose that a significant number of Christians began to question whether Jon and Kate were indeed the examples of faithful living that we had imagined. Somehow most of us missed the long trajectory that was, day by day, moving them farther from a life of Christian virtue. Sexual immorality—whether actual or merely suspected—caught our attention, but the materialism, narcissism, and exploitation of children that preceded it was largely overlooked.

As such, the breakdown of Jon and Kate's marriage is but a symptom of the larger weaknesses of ethics in the evangelical community. We are easily seduced by wealth and fame. We are easily contented by the shallow rhetoric of hot-button issues. In short, we are easily deceived by cultural values painted in Christian veneers (or clothed in Isaiah 40:31 T-shirts).

The hope for us—and the hope of Jon and Kate—is to turn once again to the rich, complex, and difficult ethics of Jesus and to let those ethics form us into a more discerning people in the world. It is time that we look for role models who value self-sacrifice over material gain. It is time that we practice forgiveness and the healing of broken relationships and call fellow Christians to do the same. It is time that we take our own marriage vows seriously and hold our brothers and sisters to be true to their commitments as well. Most importantly, it is time that we develop a view of faith and life that is capable of asking deep questions and courageous enough to embody real answers. Then, and only then, will Christians have something to offer the world and something to offer Jon & Kate Plus Eight.

Julie Vermeer Elliott is a faculty member at Eastern University, St. Davids, PA, where she teaches courses in Christian ethics and interdisciplinary studies and directs advising and first-year programs. She holds a master of theological studies degree from Duke Divinity School.

"Speaking Out" is Christianity Today's guest opinion column and (unlike an editorial) does not necessarily represent the opinion of the publication.

Copyright © 2009 Christianity Today. Click for reprint information.

http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2009/juneweb-only/122-11.0.html

FANTASTIC!

2009-05-21T11:52:00.000-07:00

Today, I headed over to Kaiser Elementary in Roseville for a Walk-A-Thon. I'm still unsure as to what we were walking for! :-) I had a great time with the 4th grade class. Here are some interesting facts pertaining to said Walk-A-Thon:

1. - We walked around the perimeter of the school eight times.
2. - The weather was gorgeous, but hot where shade was not present.
3. - Austin Blanton has a FANTASTIC voice...in his opinion... He serenaded me the entire time with such random selections as "Celebrate", "Funky Town", "I Love Rock 'n' Roll", etc. Let me tell you, I was about ready to "put another quarter in the jukebox, baby" 'cause I needed to hear something other than the "harmonious" strains of Austin's pre-pubescent voice... Need I say more? I love the kid. He's hilarious and, quite frankly, a joy! However, I don't see him making it to the American Idol finals anytime soon. Sorry, Austin.
4. - Tabitha Boling. VERY FUNNY GIRL! Every time we would stop for a break, she'd belt out, "Keep going! I wanna get this over with!" She is a very sweet girl who surprised me with her new-found assertiveness!
5. - I had a great time with Terri Simants, the 4th grade teacher that I work with. She truly loves and cares for her students. She informed me that she chose to sponser one of her kids in order that they could attend a fieldt rip to Mackinac Island. How cool! Terri does a FANTASTIC job of prominently, yet humbly displaying her love for Christ clearly to her kids. FANTASTIC!
6. - I love Wayne Johnson, the principal, of Kaiser. This guy is in love with Jesus. Praise the Lord for Wayne's godly leadership within the Roseville school district. Great principal, friend, and brother and FANTASTIC encourager.
7. - Perris Gunter filled me on all the crushes. The boys adamantly denied having a crush on anyone.....as their cheeks turned bright red.... :-)
8. - I felt FANTASTIC after completing the eight laps around the school! My ankle held up quite well and I feel refreshed and invigorated!
9. - I have become very attached to these kids and will miss them next year. I am so grateful for the involvement of my church in the lives of these kids. We've been blessed in that God has allowed us to openly minister to them via Connect, the Kaiser Science Fair, the spaghetti dinner, and today's Walk-A-Thon. I look forward to continued opportunities to reach these kids for Christ. What a FANTASTIC day!

Random thoughts about showering and birthdays...

2009-04-18T10:22:00.000-07:00

Okay, so here I am at the folks' waiting to get into the shower. This brings back memories of living in a one-bathroom house with my younger sister and tub-time-loving father, praying that I would not wet my pants because bathroom time was hard to come by. That was before my brother was born...

Today, is my brother's 18th birthday. I can remember a time where he would flat out refuse to shower. Now, it's difficult to get him out of the shower in time to catch a few drops of hot H20 for myself. Ever try rinsing Pantene out of your hair with cold water? Doesn't work.

Okay, back to the issue of the birthday. Looks like we are doing a night on the town at Famous Dave's and then back to the homestead for a little surprise party thrown together by mi madre y yo (that's Espanol for: my mother and I). Good thing lil' bro doesn't read my blog or the surprise would not be! :-)

It's funny how I had this thought that he would be done showering by the time I reached then end of this post. He's not.

Truth is Stranger than Fiction...

2009-04-13T12:52:00.000-07:00

Sooo…. Here I sit, on a Sunday evening, watching The Apprentice. I’ve had a long day at work and missed Easter Sunday services at my church. My mood is reflective (and sleepy) and inquisitive. I am wondering how to approach a particular situation. I am wondering if an approach is even necessary.

Two days ago, I had a very interesting conversation in my kitchen. This conversation shed some light, but also made scenarios and situations and little darker.

My roommate has a five-year-old daughter. I have been very aware of this fact for the last three years. This little girl lives with us and makes those in her presence aware of her existence at every opportunity. She is a bubbly, bright, sometimes mischievous little spark plug. I love her dearly.

Each April, my roommate’s now thirteen-year-old nephew comes to stay with us for a couple of weeks. He currently resides in the Czech Republic (that’s a bit of a drive)!  He is also quite bright and somewhat old for his age.

Friday morning, I noticed my roommate’s daughter referring to her cousin as “my brother”. I naively thought she was joking and corrected her. The “nephew” then corrected me by stating that my roommate is his mother, not his aunt. Hmmm…. My roommate has only mentioned that she has been married once before and that she only has one child. Come to find out, my roommate was, at one point, married to her “nephew’s” father, gave birth to her “nephew” and then divorced her “nephew’s” father. She later remarried her daughter’s father, became pregnant, and divorced for a second time.

The nephew proceeded to share with me that he lives “all over the world”. When asking him exactly what that meant, he clarified by saying that his father moves a lot for work purposes. Thinking that his father probably has a career in international trade or finance, I asked what his father does for a living. His response, “My father is a tailor.” Hmmm... I do not know any tailors who are required to move around the world in order to support themselves…

This is all very unusual to me as my roommate has always referred to her son as her “nephew”. She has never ever mentioned that she has been married twice. She only refers to her second marriage. I find even more unusual that, when asked how many children she has, she always responds, “One. I have a daughter.” The whole tailor bit is also quite interesting to me.

I am wondering whether the topic is worth mentioning or if I should let sleeping dogs lie… My overall feeling is that I am somewhat indifferent to the situation. This has always been the case. My knowing versus my not knowing the full story really has little bearing on the present circumstances. The dilemma is whether or not to believe other facts she’s relayed to me. Will she continue to be untruthful with situations that could later on harm or affect one or both of us? While I care deeply for her soul and wish the truth to be known, is it really my job to press the issue??? Should I wait on the Lord to bring the truth to light?

Many things to ponder while watching “The Donald”…

Donut-Dunkin' Dynamic Duo

2009-04-08T04:51:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I have been watching two little boys since yesterday. Their parents are out of town for a last "hoorah" until the birth of their fourth child sometime in May. When I agreed to do this, I had no idea what I was getting myself into (as is usually the case when I agree to do something)! We have been having a blast, but these are two very busy little boys! Experience as a nanny and well seasoned babysitter has taught me that constant entertainment is the the key to successful childcare.

Yesterday, our adventure began roughly five minutes after booting Mom and Dad out the door! We headed to the mall in hopes of seeking out the kiddie play area. We huffed and we puffed and we tore through the mall like three wild banchees. Upon arrival at the play station, we were disappointed to see a signed posted which read "play area closed". Nuts! We then tore back through the mall (I think we were ponies this time) to head to a different mall. Long story short, we managed to achieve the same results, "play area closed". Well, this was discouraging! Okay, the third time's the charm, right? We rip-roared across town to mall #3... You do not even want to go there... "Play area closed". The boys and I are convinced that there is a conspiracy in the state of Michigan to detain us from enjoying any mall kiddie play area. How rude! Praise the Lord for MacDonald's! God's gift to preschoolers! I can honestly say that I have never spent more than one hour inside a MacDonald's in my entire life......until yesterday. Let the good times roll. We jumped! We ran! We chased! We climbed! We slid! We giggled! And we wet our pants. Well, not ALL of us. Just one of us. Thankfully, the one who was wearing the diaper....he will remain nameless so as not to cause embarassment.

After an exhausting visit to Micky D's, we headed to the gym at church, per the request of Braeden. He wanted to play in the "dim" (a.k.a. "gym"). It is amazing what one can do with ping pong balls... We golfed! Who knew? We then played a rousing game of hide-'n'-seek (some of us could not keep quiet while hiding due to giggling fits), then we hurled basketballs at the net in hopes of make a basket. This simply was not to be. Oh well. Points for effort! :-)

We then reached the point in our day where we are so tired that we are sprawled out on the gym floor... We head home for naptime. Only one of us is of napping age. Therefore, myself and Braeden played a few rounds of Candyland. I found that we are both grossly competitive. I did not win. Let's not go there... Braeden, evidently, has learned (from someone....probably a parent....probably the male one...his mother is way too nice to do anything like that) that it is hilarous to gloat when you win! That was painful!

Two hours later, it's back in the mini-van for a night on the town. Okay, not exactly. We headed to "Soccer Tots" over at Total Soccer. That was actually a lot of fun! Ethen and I got a kick out of watching Braeden and his peers play "Foxes and Farmers" and notorious other soccer games.

We then headed to the nearest "Redbox" to rent "Bolt" per the movie buff's (Braeden) request. It was not long before both boys were sacked out and down for the count.

Eleven hours later, we are up and at 'em. Braeden has been looking forward to breakfast since yesterday. CHOCOLATE DONUTS!!!!!! Who wouldn't look forward to that! Ethen goes for the raisins.... I don't get it. Braeden is able to sway Ethen away from the dark side and encourages him to dunk his donuts into his water. Yum. Enticing. Still don't get it...

I'm sure we can squeeze in a few more adventure before this afternoon's return of the parental units!

Over and out!

"Our experiences do not DEFINE. They REFINE." -- V.B.G.

2009-04-07T19:15:00.001-07:00

Okay, it's been a while. Not much more I can say about that! I've decided that having a blog requires one to actually sit down and, well, BLOG!!!!

It has been over a year since my last post. In that time, I have destroyed two vehicles, completed six weeks of physical therapy, drawn much close to my God (can I get an "Amen"?), experienced life-changing, spiritually rich friendships, purchased strange looking shoes, lost three loved ones (why do things always come in three's?), managed to weazle out of two speeding tickets (don't ask), considered dropping off a sleep number bed on the Raeses' front porch, watched someone named "Obama" assume the role of U.S. president (no comment), joined a small group that I love dearly, worked intermittently in a homeless shelter, tutored 4th graders, worked extensively in a church/public school program, taught 2nd graders, cleaned the bathroom (LOL!), and considered getting cable.

At the end of the day, I am ever so grateful that my identity is not "car-crashing-friendly-PT-shoe-purchasing-weazle who speeds-sleep numbers-Obama?-group member-friend to homeless-4th grade tutor-2nd grade teacher-bathroom cleaning-cable patron." :-) Can I get another "Amen"?

Over the past year, I've found myself learning more and more that my identity is Christ. He is everything. He is my lifeline, my every heartbeat, my hope, my joy, sometimes my sadness. "I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful." John 15:1-2. Lots of pruning has occured over the past year.

I am onstantly reminded that I was purchased at a very heavy price. I Cor. 6:19-20, "What? Don't you know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit which you have in you? You are NOT your own! You were bought with a price! Therefore, glorify God in your body and in your spirit which are God's!" Therein lies my identity. I am God's. Plain and simple. At the end of each pruning, I am God's. At the start of each new bud, I am God's. This is not deep. It simply is.

If you are wondering when I will begin to get "deep", today is not the day. I am simply GRATEFUL for the One who defined me many years ago....

Read Ephesians. It's a pretty good book.

Home, Sweet Home!

2008-06-07T10:01:00.001-07:00

I have been officially HOME for eight days now. In some ways, it feels as though I'd never left. I can remember a time during my recovery process when I thought the time would never come for me to go home. I look back on the past few months and wonder how four months of just sitting around went by so quickly!

I loved being back in my home church on Sunday. It was absolutely fantastic being able to hear my pastor, reconnecting with friends, heading to lunch with those I wanted to catch up with, etc. I jumped right into work on Monday and was able to remember access codes, passwords, policies, routines and other things that I thought for sure I'd forgotten. I've had a very nice work week and have transitioned smoothly back into my usual routine.

I am happy to be working in the children's ministry department again and am looking forward to VBS this summer. Lots to do, but loving every minute. I just mailed 713 postcards to Roseville residents on Friday and am very curious about the number of attenders we will have this year. Our VBS goal is to have 300 children in attendance. I think we will go way beyond 300.

Things are looking up as an engine has been provided for my car. YEAH! I can't believe how God has chosen to work things out. We know He provides and we know that He keeps His promises, so why am I always surprised when He follows through?

I have decided to read through "Knowing God" by J.I. Packar again. I typically go through this book at least once a year, but thought it would be appropriate to read through it again. There is so much wisdom to be gleaned from its pages. I am constantly forgetting that knowing about God is different that knowing Him. If I were to describe to you a batch of cookies and their ingredients, you'd know about them. You wouldn't really know them from the standpoint that you had not eaten one. You could not attest to their taste, their goodness, their texture, their size, etc. You'd know nothing of their personal qualities and characteristics. While I am not in the habit of becoming so intimate with cookies, it is a good analogy nonetheless. To know Christ means that we must experience hardship so that we may know His joy, weakness so that we may know His strength.

Four months leaves one with lots of time to reflect on many different things. Recognition of how little I know Him is just one of many issues that were contemplated. I got so tired of people telling me that I needed to rest until I figured out that to rest means to TRUST! :-) I also am learning that worries are obsessions. We can choose to obsess about our needs or we can chooses to be obsessed with the author and finisher of those same needs. Our circumstances do not define us. They refine us. It is the priority of every believer to ask of himself one question, "How much am I willing to trust?" When God promises, He delivers. What He says, He will do. There is no room for doubt in a faithful heart....something I must tell myself on a regular basis! :-) -- Just a few ramblings from a woman who wishes to look back on this period of her life a few years down the road...

1 MILLION REASONS TO THANK THE LORD

2008-06-07T09:54:00.000-07:00

This list is updated the 1st of each month. Just a little something to keep things in the proper perspective!

1. - My Lord!
2. - My salvation
3. - My church
4. - Marc Graham - My dad and I have butt heads, but I have no doubt that he loves me. Any stability or consistency or love for the Lord is due to the example I had growing up - kids practice what they SEE more than what is preached to them.. He is always the one I want to talk to when I need spiritual direction. He knows his stuff!
5. - Marcia Graham - My mom has done EVERYTHING for me this year and she always seems happy to help me. I can ask her for anything and she will help.
6. - Sara Graham - A good sense of humor comes in handy when I'm not up to par - she is direct and dry which makes for lots of laughing. She is a good sister because she sent me a package today! Thanks, Bug!
7. - Aaron Graham - Always helpful and has lowered his interest rates when I have to borrow money from him. He is a cool brother and has a HUGE heart. I can't wait to see what God does in his life.
8. - Dorothy Graham - If I could be more like my grandma, I would consider that an accomplishment worth celebrating.
9. - Maggie Graham (only because Mom will kill me if I don't add the dog)
10. - Cassie Levy - The coolest aunt ever to roam the earth. There is nothing that she does not do for her family. She has always been protective of her favorite niece!
11. - Maurice "Moshe" Levy - Who has an uncle who can recite the entire Old Testament by heart, who used to be a rabbi, who was considered dead by his wife and four children just because he accepted Christ as his Savior and somehow wound up in my family? There is no one more tenderhearted than he is.
12. - Bob Johnson II - Knows how to preach the Word!
13. - Cathi Johnson - My cosmetic crisis counselor. I left my make-up in a Chicago cab and Cathi saved my life!
14. Rebecca Johnson - Very sweet spirit
15. Arianna Johnson (She is the COOLEST! She helped me put the chips away at the last membership luncheon)!
16. - Ben Henderson - I've never seen anyone so driven to be a grape! I now know what passion looks like.
17. Jerry Benge - I now know what compassion looks like.
18. Kellie Benge - I now know what mercy looks like.
19. Joel Benge - I now know what helpfulness looks like.
20. Charissa Benge - I now know what God can do when you are truly open to Him.
21. Terry O'Brien (this guy is my crisis counselor - definitely full service) - I now know what it means to be unwavering and unconditional.
22. Ruthanne O'Brien - She is the calm before, during AND after the storm. I now know what peace looks like.
23. Matthew Johannes - It's got to be a crime to be that cute.
24. - Bob & Shelly Johannes - A few brief opportunities to better know them.
25. - Mark & Ruth Klein and gang - Always helping, always encouraging. Very warm and friendly.
26. - Kim Lyons - the Duplicator Diva and Encouragement Queen
27. - Jan Alvaro - Microsoft Publisher has changed my life!
28. - Pat Musser - Classy, patient, diligent - she's taught me very much in very little time.
29. - Brien Brough - I now know what it looks like to live a lifestyle of worship.
30. - Dawn Brough - I now know what it means to be REAL, to walk on faith rather than stand on fear.
31. - Toria Brough - Very tenderhearted, always goes out of her way to talk to me when she sees me. I love this kid!
32. - Braeden Brough - You are the BEST at Hide-And-Seek.
33. - Ethen Brough - Once again, it's a crime to be that cute.
34. - Denise Hardy - "Grace, grace, God's grace. Grace that is greater than all my sin..."
35. - Kristie Schoel & family - I don't have the words...
36. - Janell Farmer & family - I know what it means to be faithful now.
37. - Joyce & Tony Griffin - Always checking on me, always praying for me.
38. -Merisa Musemic - We thought she was blind, but I don't think she knows that she is... I now know what determination looks like.
39. - Bernie Hutek - One of the greatest nurses I've ever known. Please adopt me!
40. - Ramona Hunko - Also one of the greatest nurses I've ever known! I've never seen such tenderhearted care for people in the workplace and for me outside of the workplace. You can adopt me, too!
41. - Jessica Paulus - She is ALWAYS there. Giving me a home when I didn't have one, being a sister when I most needed it. 17 years of friendship and that bond continues to strengthen every day. I now know what it looks like to get back on the horse!
42. - Melissa Oswald - Very passionate in nursing others. Wonderful, wonderful woman and excellent friend. She helped me so much this week. Not someone I would want to live without knowing.
43. - Kim, Jose, Gabriella and Liliana Valderrama - Friends for the past 10 years. To have been entrusted with their children, to have known them since birth has truly been a gift to me. You immediately took me into your home as family.
44. - To be able to say that I have so many long & strong friendships, still thriving. Most people long for ONE good friend, I'm not even 1/4th of the way through my list yet.
45. - Barb Werry - Continually pushing forward even when it hurts. What an inspiration to me. 46. - My leg doesn't hurt!
47. - I am home and not in the hopsital.
48. - I am sleeping well.
49. - I have incredible help.
50. - Pain pumps and pills!!!
51. - I was able to shower this evening!!!
52. - It is getting much easier to ambulate with my lovely walker - no jokes please.
53. - Is it okay to put my mom on here twice? It is MY blog....
54. - I am happy to have my Bible in my possession for the first time since Friday.
55. - I love that I can listen to sermons and class sessions from church online. That has made things so much better.
56. - Melissa & Jon Schuttlefield - Some of my favorite people and a very interesting college roommate. God is so amazing when we love Him enough to practice church discipline. I am grateful every day that my sister came back to Him. She is the best!
57. - I love the sheets on this bed! They are so soft - it is the little things that make the biggest difference.
58. - I am thankful that Brien gave me something to do today! That really makes me feel much better! - You are a great brother to me!
59. - Deodorant (I am dead serious)
60. - My shower chair! (Don't knock it 'til you have to try it!)
61. - Ray Graham - My grandfather died a few years ago, but gave me one of the most meaningful memories I'll ever have. On graduation day, he pulled me aside and said he loved me and that he and my grandmother have prayed for me every day since I was born. I never knew that until he told me. He was a class act all the way. Very faithful and when he said he would do something, you could bank on it.
2/15/08
62. - Pastor Fred & Sue Froman - True mountain climbers & Philippians 3:14 kind of people.
63 . - My funny e-mail from Ruthanne today. She makes me laugh a lot!
64. - I am slowly regaining an appetite.
65. - Bananas & Cheerios!
66. - My brother is home from school today helping me out.
67. - The dog is not bothering me.
68. - I have some very good books that were given to me. I now have the time to read them.
69. - I was able to scoot down to the main floor today, one step at a time.
70. - I had a change of scenery and spent time with my mom watching "Hotel Rwanda". This REALLY helped brighten my day - BIG TIME.
71. - I was able to scoot back up the stairs backwards using my good leg and my elbows to push up to the next step.
72. - Needless to say, this provided much entertainment for my family. My brother said, "We should do 'butt-on-the-stairs' night more often.
73. - Laughter! It really is the best medicine. We were all laughing so hard AT me (I know it wasn't WITH me, even though I was laughing, too!) that my stomach is actually sore. You really shouldn't ever take yourself too seriously!
74. - I had a really good day today. Each day is drastically better than the one before. I am so much stronger today than I was even two days ago. I'm just thankful to be here.

75. - I am thankful for Caleb (the intern whose last name I do not know). He always asks me how I'm doing and makes me laugh all the time. Thanks!
2/17/08
76. - Yesterday, my mom was able to repair my badly damagaed hair. It turned into a giant tangled mess during my hospital stay. I thought it would all have to but cut off.
77. - Very nice, encouraging e-mail from Terry O'Brien this morning!
78. - Lots of e-mails from Ruthanne - those help tremendously.
79. - Very sweet card from Ron & Kristie Schoel and their two girls.
80. - Phonecall from Cindy Essian.
81. - Phonecall from Merisa Musemic.
82. - Robert Migliore - My adopted uncle! He bends over backwards constantly and doesn't even think twice about it. He's always taken excellent care of us. Thanks for the call, Robert.
83. - Very nice e-mails from my cousin, Clint.
84. - I heard from my cousin, Cassie Jo, for the first time in over 20 years. She's been deployed to Baghdad as a Warrant Officer. She REALLY encouraged me this morning.
85. - Kent Williams - thanks for the hospital visit and for tolerating all of my bad jokes.
86. - Encouraging phonecall from Christina Isbell. Thanks!
87. - Happy to finally have found shorts big enough to fit over my cast. I never thought pants would be such a luxury!
88. - Cell phones!
89. - Laptops (even the ones that are not Mac's)...
90. - I was able to pull out my nerve catheter and remove my pain pump PAINLESSLY the other night. This makes for much easier ambulation and I enjoyed grossing my mom out thoroughly!
91. - I did not cry at all yesterday and only a little bit today (I really want to be at church right now)!

92. - Dinner with Jess and my new favorite dessert: Chili's white chocolate molten cake.

93. - Call from Ruthanne O'Brien - very nice conversation!

94. - We are finally working on a new church directory and we have a very neat committee of people heading this up.

95. - Call from Keith Kaynor and time in prayer.

96. - My roommate waived this month's rent as a result of Keith's prayer!

97. - My car has been taken to salvage and I never have to deal with it again.

98. - A good report from the ortho surgeon - my ankle is healing well.

99. - My scooter - i am much more mobile now!

100. - My cousin, CJ - it's been good reconnecting with her.

101. - A nice e-mail from my cousin, Joe.

102. - A note from my cousin, Clint.

103. - My sister is coming home to visit for a couple of weeks (and she thinks she's going to give me a makeover....Lord help me)!

104. - An encouraging call from Dawn Brough.

105. - A nice call from Brien Brough!

106. - My hair finally looks normal after some serious work on the part of my hairdresser.

107. - Tons and tons of encouraging cards in the mail since I got out of the hospital.

108. - Shonda Werry - She had a great report from her doctor and is doing well! Praise the Lord!

109. - Svjetlana and Merisa Musemic. It's odd how when you try to reach out to someone else, they end up reaching out to you!

110. - Joyce Griffen - Very nice card in the mail and tons of encouragement each day.

111. - Great card from the O'Briens.

112. - VERY, VERY nice card from Ron & Kathy Campbell - these people are a testimony to me of I John 4 (Perfect Love).

113. - I'm actually enjoying this time as long as I take it day by day.

114. - A package of cards created by my second grade class on Wednesday nights. Very cool!
115. - Kelly Patterson and family - a valued and timely friendship.
116. - Easter - I think that speaks for itself.
117. - Beautiful weather today.
118. - My sister is home for a visit - entertainment WILL commence.
119. - My brother, for helping me to get around church today. It's tough to do that by myself these days!
120. - Ruthanne O'Brien for picking me up for the day a couple of weeks ago.
121. - We're going to publish a new church directory. What a cool group of gals we have on our committee.
122. - I'm VERY thankful for decent authors - there's nothing like curling up with a good book.
123. - Pastor Keith - when he prays, the Lord delivers (VERY QUICKLY)!
123. - God has provided more financial means via disability checks than initially expected. I was able to pay more bills than I had anticipated.
124. - My boss is going to hold my position for as long as necessary! PRAISE THE LORD!
125. - Brien Brough, who provided me with some VBS work to keep me occupied during my "vacation".
126. - I'm halfway to getting this cast off (I think)!
127. - It was good to get out of the house for a couple of hours yesterday.
128. - Showering is much easier now.
129. - A good visit from my sister!
130. - A note from Leslie!
131. - I am finished revising the VBS cards for 2008!
132. - Ruthanne's attachments came through.
133. - I slept better last night and am slowly weaning myself off pain meds.
134. - A fun day with Jessi on Sunday.
135. - Jessi is excused from jury duty! :-)
136. - An e-mail message from Christina!
137. - A potential visit from Christina????
138. - Almost all of the snow has melted!
139. - One day closer to going home!
140. - My finances are finally being whipped in to shape!
141. - Nice people at my finance company! :-)
142. - Being able to have things on the calendar for this week!
143. - A positive report from the doctor today 4/3/08 - only four weeks until I can start walking!
144. - Dinner with Jess this evening - it was nice being out of the house.
145. - A visit from the neighbor - haven't seen him in a couple of years!
146. - All my paperwork for today is done.
147. - I am sleeping very well and am officially weaned off pain meds! Yeah!!!
148. - I get to start physical therapy on Tuesday 4/8/08. A friend of mine is going to be my therapist! How cool is that?!!!
149. - I finding lots of old friends on My Space.
150. - I am done revising the VBS cards for July '08.
151. - Cool testimonies to read from the last membership class at church. I get to scan all the paperwork today.
152. - REALLY NICE, SUNNY, WARM weather the last couple of days and today.
153. - Today is Jessica's 30th birthday!!!
154. - I don't have to wear the boot/cast to bed anymore... Only when I am out and about. Life is so much more comfortable.
155. - I am walking again!
156. - Physical therapy is going very well.
157. - Only two more weeks of therapy left to go.
158. - Tim Farmer will put an engine in my car free of charge (I just have to get an engine now)!
159. - Very cool phone chat with Janell.
160. - Lots of laughing with Ruth Klein two days ago and a little encouragement.
161. - My bills are being paid.
162. - I will have survived 30 years on Monday! :-)
163. - Aaron got a 34 on his ACT's!
164. - I got a birthday present in the mail yesterday.
165. - Warmer weather.
166. - Christina is coming to visit me in July. YEAH!!!!
167. - Awesome VBX program this year - only a few weeks away.
168. - Church directory portrait sessions are going smoothly.
169. - Reconnecting with Ruthanne Willard - haven't seen her in 17 years....
170. - Jessi's victory with DMB! :-)
171. - Someone is paying $10,000 on Duane and Mechelle's Florida mortgage. That is HUGE!
172. - The freedom that I have in Christ - the freedom that IS Christ.
173. - I am back home now!
174. - Transportation for a few weeks.
175. - The opportunity to go to dinner with the O'Briens prior to their vacation.
176. - A new engine for my car.
177. - Tim Farmer's willingness to help with the car issues.
178. - The Huebners - always great to see what God has done over the years in the lives of those whom I have lost track with.
179. - Sam Carmon - freedom from drugs & alcohol, salvation, peace after the death of his daughter.
180. - Joyful reunions at church last Sunday.
181. - Warm, sunny weather.
182. - Good health - I'm up walking around again, slowly but surely.
183. - Back in the saddle with ministry opportunities at church.
184. - Almost finished with pictorial directory photography sessions.
185. - Katie Aune - lots of potential there.
186. - Christina Henderson - only a few more weeks until she's here visiting!!! :-)

Psalm 36:5-10

5 Your love, O LORD, reaches to the heavens,
your faithfulness to the skies.

6 Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains,
your justice like the great deep.
O LORD, you preserve both man and beast.

7 How priceless is your unfailing love!
Both high and low among men
find refuge in the shadow of your wings.

8 They feast on the abundance of your house;
you give them drink from your river of delights.

9 For with you is the fountain of life;
in your light we see light.

10 Continue your love to those who know you,
your righteousness to the upright in heart.

Unfailing Love

2008-05-29T17:14:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, my human nature interferes with my faith. I find myself wondering where God is in a particularly bad situation. I begin to doubt His faithfulness and question whether or not He is truly interested in the day-to-day goings; whether He is paying attention. It's odd how we, as mere sinners, think we know better than our Creator. Honestly, how often do you see a Ford Focus questioning it's engineer?

I've spent my week caring for a very special little boy named Tamarkus. He is almost two and can, at times, be a stinker. I am amazed, however, at the wonderful disposition of such a suffering child. I am even more grateful at God's continued guidance and protection for this child. Tarmarkus' parents, combined, have a rough background. They are unbelievers and are most likely not surrounded by strong examples of Christian character. Through a series of personal events, a close friend of mine came to know of Tamarkus' situation. She is quite close to his family, extended and otherwise. She has been caring for him on a regular basis and loves him as though he were her own child.

As angry as my friend and I become when we think at the thoughtlessness and carelessness of Tamarkus' parents, I can't help but try to fathom the love of Christ.....and then I realize that it is unfathomable. He sees our worst mistakes, our innermost secrets and intentions, our ugly core. He continues to love us without fail. He extends His grace before we realize we even needed it.

I am so thankful for my friend who is willing to sacrifice her time and personal resources in order to exercise the character of Christ. When we serve others, it is as though we have done it unto Jesus.

One day, I would like to be able to look back in life and see that my own example has been a godly one; that I caused someone to pause and question why my lifestyle is different from their own. Tamarkus' situation serves only to further compel me to ask that God refine me, even when I don't want Him to, so that I can better represent Him.

Smilebox

2008-05-26T07:52:00.000-07:00

Today I found a fun new program called Smilebox. Smilebox allows you to create slideshows, format pictures with fun frames and blurbs, as well as scrapbook online. You can then post your creations in your blog, e-mail them to a friend or use them for a formal presentation. I am working on a Memorial Day tribute to my grandfather this morning. He passed away almost seven years ago and Memorial Day is a tough day for my grandmother. I am going to send this to her via e-mail. I can also make this into a DVD for her to keep.

Here is the result of my first experiment today!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

www.smilebox.com

Magnificent Obsession

2008-05-20T20:43:00.000-07:00

"Magnificent Obsession"
by Steven Curtis Chapman

Lord, You know how much
I want to know so much
In the way of answers and explanations
I have cried and prayed
And still I seem to stay
In the middle of life’s complications
All this pursuing leaves me feeling like I’m chasing down the wind
But now it’s brought me back to You
And I can see again

This is everything I want
This is everything I need
I want this to be my one consuming passion
Everything my heart desires
Lord, I want it all to be for You, Jesus
Be my magnificent obsession

So capture my heart again
Take me to depths I’ve never been
Into the riches of Your grace and Your mercy
Return me to the cross
And let me be completely lost
In the wonder of the love
That You’ve shown me
Cut through these chains that tie me down to so many lesser things
Let all my dreams fall to the ground
Until this one remains

You are everything I want
And You are everything I need
Lord, You are all my heart desires
You are everything to me

You are everything I want
You are everything I need
I want You to be my one consuming passion
Everything my heart desires
Lord, I want it all to be for You
I want it all to be for You

I have a splitting headache. Probably from the spiritual two-by-four by which I find myself being repeatedly struck. Were someone to pose the question, "What have you learned during your recovery?" my response would probably have consisted of such concepts as trust, prayer, provision, relationships....at least this is what I would've told you a couple of days ago. I think the most difficult obstacle has been that of worry. Worrying about finances, transportation, physical therapy, work projects, church projects, anything and everything that comes to mind.
I found myself struggling tremendously yesterday. I didn't know how in the world I would be able to pay my phone bill. The amount was not large. I simply had no money. I worried to the extent that finances were all that I could think about. I could not sleep, didn't want to eat, didn't feel like talking, and was somewhat depressed about life in general. I soon came to realize that there is another term for worry: OBSESSION! I quickly contacted some friends whom I have respectfully dubbed my "Prayer Possey", hoping to shake things up for the better! Now and then, I forget that God is not the giant vending machine in the sky. I cannot simply insert a prayer in the slot and out pops a car. While we are to bear one another's burdens, we are to do so knowing full well that He's already at work! Instead, I find myself continuing to worry and OBSESS that I didn't pray accordingly, or that I didn't pray enough. Like there is some magic prayer quota I must fill in order to empower Christ, thus enabling Him to fill my need...sort of like making sure to put the dust buster back on the charger so it's ready to roll for the next big clean-up... That's just nuts!
I am reflecting on a conversation from Sunday morning. I was asked by one of the ladies at church about my physical status. I responded that all is well, but that all I need now is a car. Her reply: "Why are you worrying about what the Lord has already provided?" I have to admit that I was somewhat irritated by this response at the time. My flesh was contriving all sorts of smart replies, one of them consisting of, "Oh! You're going to give me your car?" Of course I had not lost the ability to restrain myself, thus eliminating a certain element of embarrassment (praise God)!
When worrying, we allow Satan to "move in", thus giving him permission to rearrange the spiritual furniture of our hearts, Christ's home! Out goes the sofa of confidence. In comes the chair of doubt, the table of deceit, and the footstool of worry... We become so ensnared in what we cannot have, do, or accomplish that we become obsessed; bordering on idolatry. All the furniture clashes....and it's polyester....and plaid....and scratchy...it just goes from bad to worse...
One of my favorite passages in Scripture is centered on Peter. I find great comfort in Peter because I find that much of my personality mirrors his own. Peter confidently walked on water....when he was focused on Christ. The minute he began to obsess about "What if?", "What now?", and "How"?, he began to sink... He allowed Satan to take the reigns, to begin to contort and manipulate his thoughts and ideas. It is so easy to develop a mindset that because we've accepted Christ, we are no longer susceptible to spiritual failings. To tell you the truth, I feel that Satan attacks all the more. Nonbelievers and wayward followers are no struggle as he's already won them, thus focusing most of his energies on those whom he has yet to sway. I Peter 5:8, "Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour."
I chose to center my blog around the vine & branches concept. The idea being that Christ is the vine and I am one of the many branches abiding in that vine. Christ wants to be my magnificent obsession, my one and only passion. He wants me to continually push to draw nearer and nearer to Him each day because He wants to be near to me. There is an idea of oneness; that we, as believers, are to be inseparable from our Savior; unable to tell where we end and He begins. We are to approach Him with everything, needs, desires, hopes, weaknesses, sin; He is the keeper and protector of our hearts. How dare we hand ourselves over to any other? I love the passage in Romans that so clearly states that "...nothing can separate you from the love of God in Christ Jesus..." Not even death if we have put our faith in Him.
Matthew 6:8 has become very dear to me in the past couple of weeks, "...Your Father knows what you need before you ask Him..." Jesus compassionately and very directly instructs us on how to communicate with Him - humbly and intimately. He wants to be very personal to us; wants us to be in constant communication with Him. He's already anticipated our EVERY need.
Did I mention that my phone bill was taken care of last night with a few dollars to spare? He always provides above and beyond. You cannot out-give the Lord. Obsess about that!

Handy Chart

2008-05-17T19:59:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine sent this to me:

YOU SAY	GOD SAYS	BIBLE VERSES
You say: 'It's impossible'	God says: All things are possible	(Luke 18:27)
You say: 'I'm too tired'	God says: I will give you rest	(Matthew 11:28-30)
You say: 'Nobody really loves me'	God says: I love you	(John 3:1 6 & John3:34 )
You say: 'I can't go on'	God says: My grace is sufficient	(II Corinthians 12:9 & Psalm 91:15)
You say: 'I can't figure things out'	God says: I will direct your steps	(Proverbs 3:5- 6)
You say: 'I can't do it'	God says: You can do all things	(Philippians 4:13)
You say: 'I'm not able'	God says: I am able	(II Corinthians 9:8)
You say: 'It's not worth it'	God says: It will be worth it	(Roman 8:28 )
You say: 'I can't forgive myself'	God says: I Forgive you	(I John 1:9 & Romans 8:1)
You say: 'I can't manage'	God says: I will supply all your needs	(Philippians 4:19)
You say: 'I'm afraid'	God says: I have not given you a spirit of fear	(II Timothy 1:7)
You say: 'I'm always worried and frustrated'	God says: Cast all your cares on ME	(I Peter 5:7)
You say: 'I'm not smart enough'	God says: I give you wisdom	(I Corinthians 1:30)
You say: 'I feel all alone'	God says: I will never leave you or forsake you	(Hebrews 13:5)

Food & Fuel

2008-05-16T15:49:00.000-07:00

A firestorm of negative media about the ethanol industry seems to have become the current rage. The issue is usually presented as a moral controversy by casting it in terms of “food vs. fuel”. To portray a complex issue in simplistic moral terms is to trivialize it. Any one who has spent any amount of time considering a world with both a growing population and expectations that are rising dramatically understands that it will demand a lot more of both “ Food and Fuel” in the future, not one exclusive of the other. So for those who wish to enter the debate, please consider the following:

a) Less than 2 % of the US corn crop is used for human consumption as cereal grain. We use almost as much for pet food as we do for cereal consumption. About 6 to 7% of the corn crop is used to make fructose and sweeteners. (It’s cheaper than sugar, and sugar is surplus)

b) The corn to ethanol industry only uses the starch portion of the kernel. All of the protein, oil, fibers, minerals, vitamins, and other components remain and are available for utilization as food for either human consumption, or for their traditional use as livestock feed. This remaining portion is commonly referred to as DDGs.

c) The world is not short of starch for human nutrition. The need is for proteins and digestible fiber. Soybeans traditionally carry a much higher value in the marketplace because they contain a much higher percentage of proteins and oils, and a much lower percentage of starch.

d) Rice is the one high starch cereal grain that is widely consumed by humans directly as a cereal grain. Corn acres and rice acres are not fungible. One is not produced at the expense of the other.

e) Since the early 1970’s, the Consumer Price index for food, meat, and poultry has risen at a steady rate of 3.5 to 4% per year. (About 4.5% during the 80’s). That is about the same as the current rate of increase. During that entire 40 year span of time, we have experienced both world hunger and such a consistent surplus of corn that the :country-regionUS government had to invent a variety of different methods to keep the surplus manageable.

f) From 2000 to 2005, there were 11 countries in the world in which 46% or more of their populations were listed as undernourished. Those countries received less than one hundredth of one percent of :country-regionUS corn exports. If we broaden that to include the 24 countries in which at least a third of the population is considered undernourished, the number is still less than one tenth of 1% of US corn exports.

g) In the dry mill ethanol industry, less than 2/3rds of the energy in a bushel of corn ends up as a liquid fuel. The remaining Btu’s/calories are in the protein, fiber, oil, etc. (DDGs). When those products are priced by the marketplace, it pays four times as much for the liquid fuel as it does the food portion.

h) When you read or hear that it takes almost as much energy to produce ethanol as it yields, the 136,000 Btu’s per bushel remaining in the DDGs is conveniently or mistakenly overlooked.

i) We Americans spend, on average, 10% of our disposable income on food. It takes 6 to 7 lbs of the nutrition from cereal grains to produce the equivalent amount of nutrition in meat & poultry. We gladly pay more for meat and poultry because pork chops and steaks taste better, and, we can afford to. The net loss of nutrition to convert cereal grains to meat is considerably higher than in the corn to ethanol industry.

j) The marketplace is paying three times as much for energy in the form of liquid fuel as it is in the form of food, not because of the Renewable Fuels Standard, but because crude oil is $120 a barrel.

k) My company currently exports DDGs to various Asian countries. The freight alone is equal to or greater than the price of the product. Asia , as the most densely populated region of the world, uses it for the same purposes as we do, livestock production.

No one in the renewable fuels production business has ever suggested that ethanol is the total solution to the current problems of fossil fuels. But we do view our industry as being able to provide tools that can further the development of a better agriculture and fuel system that provides benefits to farmers, communities, public health, and the environment.

Ben Brown

CEO

Heartland Corn Products

Winthrop MN

Matt Zanger, Ag Risk Management Advisor
Advance Trading, Inc.
Office: 866-795-6188
Cell: 217-779-0808

This data is provided for information purposes only and is not intended to be used for specific trading strategies without consulting Advance Trading, Inc. No guarantee of any kind is implied or possible where projections of future conditions are attempted. Past results are no indication of future performance. All information is based upon data that is believed to be reliable, but its accuracy is not guaranteed. Please click here http://www.advance-trading.com/disclaimer/ for a full disclaimer.

"The Matchmaker"

2008-05-12T08:18:00.000-07:00

On Friday evening, I went to a production of "The Matchmaker", put on by Calvary Christian Academy. My brother played one of the main characters, Ambrose Kemper. "The Matchmaker" is a play that was written before "Hello Dolly", the musical. "Hello, Dolly" is a spinoff of this script.

The play was well done. The actors added pieces of their own personalities into their parts and we found ourselves laughing continuously throughout the production.

I didn't recognize my brother when he first stepped out onto the stage. He normally wears his hair straight. He was sport some curls and more eye liner than Tammy Faye Baker. Aaron is very much a "guy's guy" from the standpoint that he does not do frills. Therefore, he was disgusted that he had to wear makeup and thoroughly disatisfied with the woman who took a curling iron to his head!

Aaron as Mr. Ambrose Kemper

Daniel Hunter as Mr. Vandergelder, Aaron as Ambrose Kemper

and someone I don't know as the taxi driver.

This is a funny picture to me. Aaron is sandwiched between his girlfriend and her sister (who I think has a thing for Aaron)! Emily Gettchle is on the left. She played a restaurant waitress. Paige Gettchle (Aaron's girlfriend), played the part of The Matchmaker.

Aaron and Paige will be going to their Junior/Senior banquet together

on May 23 at "The Melting Pot."

Memory Lane

2008-05-09T08:04:00.000-07:00

I think these explain why I've always loved horses! My dad's uncle, Jim, used to raise ponies in Georgetown, Indiana. I loved visiting Uncle Jim. He was my favorite relative next to my grandmother.

Okay, these are going to be somewhat out of order. I had fun going through old family albums today at my parents' house. Hey, what else have I got to do? I found myself cracking up at some of these pictures and the stories behind them. I think this little red and white dress was one of my favorite outfits to wear to church on Sundays. I believe these were Easter pictures. Ahhh... The good old days when I was an only child!

I used to WORSHIP anything beginning with the word "super". I loved Super Woman, Super Girl, Super Boy, Super Dog.....they were all SUPER to me! Most of all, I loved Super Man. I used to press my nose against the front window waiting for my dad to come home after work. When he eventually walked through the door, I would run and leap into the air with my Super Man cape (a.k.a. my blanket) tied around my neck, while my dad flew me around the room.

My mom would call this the age of innocence. She says that this is a picture of me BEFORE I became stubborn! Dad says that there has been no such period in my lifetime!

This was taken back in 1982. Mom said this was probably the 15th attempt to get me to smile. I HATED having my picture taken. I still do!

Here's a family portrait that was taken in 1984 - My parents get depressed looking at these!
As you can see, I have pretty much always looked like my dad and my sister and I have never looked anything alike.

Here are some shot of my sister. She has always loved the spotlight. She was actually part of the audience for American Idol this week. She denies what we all know . She's been waiting all her life to be discovered! I love the top left picture. I think the life vest weighed more than she did at the time! She was not happy! The top right is a picture that was taken after she lost her first tooth. She wanted to know how she could lose teeth faster because she needed to restock her piggy bank... The bottom left picture is of Sara standing in front of my favorite house that we, as a family, ever lived in. This picture was taken in Van Wert, Ohio, where Sara was born. Regarding the bottom right picture, I was never happy when Mom allowed Sara in my pool with a wet diaper on.... YUCK! I am still bitter about the day Sara ate a whole box of Twinkies and told Mom and Dad that I did it. She knows she will never be forgiven for that one. This is the same kid who unloaded her diaper by the church organ when she was three... You don't even want to go there... We had one very embarrassed deacon on our hands upon discovery...

Here it is ! The old farmhouse we lived in while in Van Wert, Ohio. This was and still is the most wonderful place I've ever lived. I told my parents when we moved, that I would by that house back when I got old! It is still a dream of min e to repurchase that house one day. The property was gorgeous. The moment you stepped into the driveway, you felt like you were in a flower shop. You could smell peonies, lilacs, lilies-0f-the -valley, cherry blossoms, apple blossoms, the fresh scent of pine, grape vines and crab apple trees. It was GORGEOUS in the summer and springtime. We had one acre of backyard . My sister and I loved it when Dad would come home on summer evenings and we'd play hide-and-go-seek in the backyard. Dad would always hide with Sara and would have to clamp a hand over her mouth because she's never learned how to close it! :-)
My brother, Aaron, was born in 1991. The top picture on the right was taken on the day he was born, two weeks before my 13th birthday. I am holding him in this picture. The picture on the top left was taken on Aaron's second birthday. He still loves airplanes! I cringe every time I look at the bottom picture. Didn't Mom know about Rabies????

I spent a lot of time with my brother until I left for college in '96. I got tired of people asking me how old my son was each time I took him to McDonald's! He was a good little boy. I think I can count on one hand the number of times he needed to be punished. I can't say that about Sara and I. We were rebels! :-)

Save the Date!

2008-05-06T18:23:00.000-07:00

June 1st.....the light that is at the end of my tunnel! I went to see the doctor today and everything looks good! I will be returning to work on June 1st, without restrictions.

My last day of physical therapy is May 20th, so I can return home anytime after that date. Now, I just need transportation!

I went to the church today to get my "mugshot" taken for our new church pictorial directory (try to say that three times fast)! I was not happy with any of the shots and several people said that they looked like high school poses. I ended up selecting the "least high schoolish" photo for the directory. Needless to say, I did not order any pictures.

It was good to see different staff members and catch up a bit with some of them. I realized even more how much I miss being around them!

I enjoyed a birthday celebration with a friend last night at Chili's where I renewed love for the White Chocolate Molten Cake... Pathetic that I am that easily pacified?!?! Not sure.... :-) The evening was very nice until I returned to my parents' house only to discover that I had locked myself out of the house! :-( I remembered that my brother was at his school rehearsing for a play, so I had my friend drop me off there. I caught up on some phone calls with friends who live out-of-state while waiting for Aaron to wrap things up and drive me home. All in all, not a bad birthday! I had a good day, but I am looking most forward to June 1st! :-)

A Prayer Before Dinner

2008-05-03T09:27:00.001-07:00

Everyone was seated around the table as the food was being served.

When little Logan received his plate, he started eating right away.

"Logan, wait until we say our prayer," his mother reminded him.

"I don't have to," the little boy replied.

"Of course you do," his mother insisted, "we say a prayer before eating at our house."

"That's at our house," Logan explained, "but this is Grandma's house and she knows how to cook.

Actual Church Bulletin Typos - Submitted by Mike Sample

2008-05-03T09:24:00.000-07:00

The following are actual bloopers from church bulletins...
Ladies Bible Study will be held Thursday morning at 10:00. All ladies are invited to lunch in the Fellowship Hall after the B.S. is done.
The pastor would appreciate it if the ladies of the congregation would lend him their electric girdles for the pancake breakfast next Sunday morning.
The pastor will preach his farewell message, after which the choir will sing, "Break Forth Into Joy."
Remember in prayer the many who are sick of our church and community.
The eighth graders will be presenting Shakespeare's Hamlet in the church basement Friday at 7 p.m. The congregation is invited to attend this tragedy.
Thursday night Potluck Supper. Prayer and medication to follow.
A bean supper will be held on Tuesday evening in the church hall. Music will follow.
Weight Watchers will meet at 7 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church. Please use large double door at the side entrance.
Tuesday at 4 PM there will be an ice cream social. All ladies giving milk will please come early.
The Lutheran Men's group will meet at 6 PM. Steak, mashed potatoes, green beans, bread and dessert will be served for a nominal feel.
Don't let worry kill you, let the church help.
This being Easter Sunday, we will ask Mrs. Lewis to come forward and lay an egg on the altar.
Thursday at 5:00 pm there will be a meeting of the Little Mothers Club. All wishing to become little mothers, please see the minister in his study.
Irving Benson and Jessie Carter were married on October 24 in the church. So ends a friendship that began in their school days.
Bertha Belch, a missionary from Africa will be speaking tonight at Calvary Memorial Church in Racine. Come tonight and hear Bertha Belch all the way from Africa.
The ladies of the church have cast off clothing of every kind and they may be seen in the church basement Friday.
Announcement in the church bulletin for a National PRAYER & FASTING Conference: "The cost for attending the Fasting and Prayer conference includes meals."
Miss Charlene Mason sang "I will not pass this way again" giving obvious pleasure to the congregation.
Next Sunday is the family hay ride and bonfire at the Fowlers'. Bring your own hot dogs and guns. Friends are welcome! Everyone come for a fun time.
During the absence of our Pastor, we enjoyed the rare privilege of hearing a good sermon when J.F. Stubbs supplied our pulpit.
The church will host an evening of fine dining, superb entertainment, and gracious hostility.
This evening at 7 P.M. there will be a hymn sing in the park across from the Church. Bring a blanket and come prepared to sin.
"Ladies, don't forget the rummage sale. It's a chance to get rid of those things not worth keeping around the house. Don't forget your husbands."

1 MILLION REASONS TO THANK THE LORD

2008-05-03T08:57:00.001-07:00

This list is updated the 1st of each month. Just a little something to keep things in the proper perspective!

1. - My Lord!
2. - My salvation
3. - My church
4. - Marc Graham - My dad and I have butt heads, but I have no doubt that he loves me. Any stability or consistency or love for the Lord is due to the example I had growing up - kids practice what they SEE more than what is preached to them.. He is always the one I want to talk to when I need spiritual direction. He knows his stuff!
5. - Marcia Graham - My mom has done EVERYTHING for me this year and she always seems happy to help me. I can ask her for anything and she will help.
6. - Sara Graham - A good sense of humor comes in handy when I'm not up to par - she is direct and dry which makes for lots of laughing. She is a good sister because she sent me a package today! Thanks, Bug!
7. - Aaron Graham - Always helpful and has lowered his interest rates when I have to borrow money from him. He is a cool brother and has a HUGE heart. I can't wait to see what God does in his life.
8. - Dorothy Graham - If I could be more like my grandma, I would consider that an accomplishment worth celebrating.
9. - Maggie Graham (only because Mom will kill me if I don't add the dog)
10. - Cassie Levy - The coolest aunt ever to roam the earth. There is nothing that she does not do for her family. She has always been protective of her favorite niece!
11. - Maurice "Moshe" Levy - Who has an uncle who can recite the entire Old Testament by heart, who used to be a rabbi, who was considered dead by his wife and four children just because he accepted Christ as his Savior and somehow wound up in my family? There is no one more tenderhearted than he is.
12. - Bob Johnson II - Knows how to preach the Word!
13. - Cathi Johnson - My cosmetic crisis counselor. I left my make-up in a Chicago cab and Cathi saved my life!
14. Rebecca Johnson - Very sweet spirit
15. Arianna Johnson (She is the COOLEST! She helped me put the chips away at the last membership luncheon)!
16. - Ben Henderson - I've never seen anyone so driven to be a grape! I now know what passion looks like.
17. Jerry Benge - I now know what compassion looks like.
18. Kellie Benge - I now know what mercy looks like.
19. Joel Benge - I now know what helpfulness looks like.
20. Charissa Benge - I now know what God can do when you are truly open to Him.
21. Terry O'Brien (this guy is my crisis counselor - definitely full service) - I now know what it means to be unwavering and unconditional.
22. Ruthanne O'Brien - She is the calm before, during AND after the storm. I now know what peace looks like.
23. Matthew Johannes - It's got to be a crime to be that cute.
24. - Bob & Shelly Johannes - A few brief opportunities to better know them.
25. - Mark & Ruth Klein and gang - Always helping, always encouraging. Very warm and friendly.
26. - Kim Lyons - the Duplicator Diva and Encouragement Queen
27. - Jan Alvaro - Microsoft Publisher has changed my life!
28. - Pat Musser - Classy, patient, diligent - she's taught me very much in very little time.
29. - Brien Brough - I now know what it looks like to live a lifestyle of worship.
30. - Dawn Brough - I now know what it means to be REAL, to walk on faith rather than stand on fear.
31. - Toria Brough - Very tenderhearted, always goes out of her way to talk to me when she sees me. I love this kid!
32. - Braeden Brough - You are the BEST at Hide-And-Seek.
33. - Ethen Brough - Once again, it's a crime to be that cute.
34. - Denise Hardy - "Grace, grace, God's grace. Grace that is greater than all my sin..."
35. - Kristie Schoel & family - I don't have the words...
36. - Janell Farmer & family - I know what it means to be faithful now.
37. - Joyce & Tony Griffin - Always checking on me, always praying for me.
38. -Merisa Musemic - We thought she was blind, but I don't think she knows that she is... I now know what determination looks like.
39. - Bernie Hutek - One of the greatest nurses I've ever known. Please adopt me!
40. - Ramona Hunko - Also one of the greatest nurses I've ever known! I've never seen such tenderhearted care for people in the workplace and for me outside of the workplace. You can adopt me, too!
41. - Jessica Paulus - She is ALWAYS there. Giving me a home when I didn't have one, being a sister when I most needed it. 17 years of friendship and that bond continues to strengthen every day. I now know what it looks like to get back on the horse!
42. - Melissa Oswald - Very passionate in nursing others. Wonderful, wonderful woman and excellent friend. She helped me so much this week. Not someone I would want to live without knowing.
43. - Kim, Jose, Gabriella and Liliana Valderrama - Friends for the past 10 years. To have been entrusted with their children, to have known them since birth has truly been a gift to me. You immediately took me into your home as family.
44. - To be able to say that I have so many long & strong friendships, still thriving. Most people long for ONE good friend, I'm not even 1/4th of the way through my list yet.
45. - Barb Werry - Continually pushing forward even when it hurts. What an inspiration to me. 46. - My leg doesn't hurt!
47. - I am home and not in the hopsital.
48. - I am sleeping well.
49. - I have incredible help.
50. - Pain pumps and pills!!!
51. - I was able to shower this evening!!!
52. - It is getting much easier to ambulate with my lovely walker - no jokes please.
53. - Is it okay to put my mom on here twice? It is MY blog....
54. - I am happy to have my Bible in my possession for the first time since Friday.
55. - I love that I can listen to sermons and class sessions from church online. That has made things so much better.
56. - Melissa & Jon Schuttlefield - Some of my favorite people and a very interesting college roommate. God is so amazing when we love Him enough to practice church discipline. I am grateful every day that my sister came back to Him. She is the best!
57. - I love the sheets on this bed! They are so soft - it is the little things that make the biggest difference.
58. - I am thankful that Brien gave me something to do today! That really makes me feel much better! - You are a great brother to me!
59. - Deodorant (I am dead serious)
60. - My shower chair! (Don't knock it 'til you have to try it!)
61. - Ray Graham - My grandfather died a few years ago, but gave me one of the most meaningful memories I'll ever have. On graduation day, he pulled me aside and said he loved me and that he and my grandmother have prayed for me every day since I was born. I never knew that until he told me. He was a class act all the way. Very faithful and when he said he would do something, you could bank on it.
2/15/08
62. - Pastor Fred & Sue Froman - True mountain climbers & Philippians 3:14 kind of people.
63 . - My funny e-mail from Ruthanne today. She makes me laugh a lot!
64. - I am slowly regaining an appetite.
65. - Bananas & Cheerios!
66. - My brother is home from school today helping me out.
67. - The dog is not bothering me.
68. - I have some very good books that were given to me. I now have the time to read them.
69. - I was able to scoot down to the main floor today, one step at a time.
70. - I had a change of scenery and spent time with my mom watching "Hotel Rwanda". This REALLY helped brighten my day - BIG TIME.
71. - I was able to scoot back up the stairs backwards using my good leg and my elbows to push up to the next step.
72. - Needless to say, this provided much entertainment for my family. My brother said, "We should do 'butt-on-the-stairs' night more often.
73. - Laughter! It really is the best medicine. We were all laughing so hard AT me (I know it wasn't WITH me, even though I was laughing, too!) that my stomach is actually sore. You really shouldn't ever take yourself too seriously!
74. - I had a really good day today. Each day is drastically better than the one before. I am so much stronger today than I was even two days ago. I'm just thankful to be here.