Penning For Your Thoughts

Science Camp 2009

2009-07-19T20:42:00.001-04:00

Click here to view these pictures larger

Apron's Cooking School 2009

2009-07-19T20:23:00.003-04:00

Click below to read the article featured in the Florida Times Union. There you will find photos as well as a video of Lily in action at Publix Cooking School.

Summer camp sizzles when you're cooking | Jacksonville.com

Shared via AddThis

YOU ASK, WHERE HAVE I BEEN?

2009-07-19T18:15:00.007-04:00

Well, if you have a minute or two, I'll tell you. I've been packing, unpacking, and doing laundry!

After my last blog entry, I left for Orlando and attended the FPEA Homeschool Convention with my two youngest kids, Garrett and Lily. The seminars were fabulous and every type of book, curriculum, kit, and computer product was at my fingertips; each vendor ready to swipe my credit card.

When the convention ended, we were off to the University of Central Florida, Orlando, where the three of us attended an incredible science camp, hosted by Aurora Lipper of Supercharged Science. There Garrett and Lily worked on making robots, lasers, roller coasters and various chemical mixtures, including the combination of diet cola and Mentos. The rest is messy history. (See the photos in a previous post.)

Three days after we came home, I was on a plane for Kansas City. Not only did I get to hang out with my daughter who lives there as a prayer missionary with the International House of Prayer, I attended a very hands-on Worship Symposium. Our class had about 35 participants with 11 nations of the world represented. God truly unifies His people through worship.

The next week, after I arrived home, my summer taxi service began. Lily started Apron's Cooking School (in the chefs hat on far right) with Publix, where she created full meals from Monday through Friday. It included Italian, Asian, Mexican, and American cuisine. The doggy bags were fantastic. (Read the article and watch the video in the recent post.)

The next week we went back and forth from the Cummer Art Museum, where Lily had a very enriching experience with everything from clay and painting to paper mache. I think I finally satisfied her creative hunger as she showed no signs of boredom.

In the meantime, Garrett started getting involved with Boy Scout Troop 252. This has been the best thing for him, being the outdoorsman that he is. They camp on a regular basis, and are constantly working on merit badges, which is now consuming his time instead of other mindless activities. One of the things his troop did to raise money for camp this year was pick hundreds of gallons of fresh blueberries in Georgia. I've never seen this active child so tired!

It was all worth it though. The following week, the troop headed to North Carolina for one week of Boy Scout Camp fun. The adventure spirit in him was (temporarily) satisfied and he came home dirty and tired.

Just before he left, Lily and my husband took off for Wisconsin where they went on an "Old Home Tour." She had been asking her dad about his upbringing, her deceased as well as living relatives, and the old homestead in Wisconsin. Instead of telling her the details, he decided that showing her would be more meaningful. The trip was intricately put together by the Lord as their steps were perfectly ordered. On the plane ride home, she leaned over to her daddy and said, "This is a trip I'll never forget. Thanks, Dad."

If you haven't figured it out by now, I had exactly one week to myself. I slept in, watched movies, read until I couldn't, cleaned, did laundry and hurt my knee. That reduced my activity to more self-pampering, which included a pedicure before they all came home.

Lily was home for one night and left for 4-H camp the next week. Garrett left for a youth camp in Kansas City four days later. 18 days away from home is a long time, but I know the Lord will encounter him as he attends the Awakening Teen Camp, designed especially for this age group. (Plus the fact that he will get to chill with his sister, who is a counselor there.)

Lily is home for now but starts Sewing Camp on Tuesday. There she will learn the basics as well as make a pair of pajama pants. Garrett comes home in August, just in time for Boy Scouts to resume.

I look forward to having everyone together again but have to say, while taking a huge breath, I am forever grateful to the Lord for the opportunities He has given us. Compared to others, this has truly been the most enriching summer of all. We have enjoyed meeting new friends along with going to different places. Our hearts are full and our memories are forever.

I just wish I could keep up the laundry all of this has created!

How about you? Tell me about your summer . . .

CARVING OUT A NAME FOR MYSELF

2009-05-21T08:33:00.003-04:00

By Chrissy Larson

I'm not sure if I ever explained the whole, "Cyberpsalmist" thing.

When I first took the Blog Writing Course that I so highly recommend, I was advised by my instructor to choose a name other than my own, that described me in some way. This is usually called a pen name or pseudonym. Considering the possibilities, I thought about the many hobbies I enjoy, such as sewing, scrap booking, camping, travel, movies . . . the list goes on and on.

Drawing a blank, I explored the friendly nicknames of my childhood, as well as not-so-nice sticks and stones names I was called. Still, nothing interesting came up.

After allowing a few days to let my mind ramble, I remembered a name that's followed me for quite some time. In my early years as a new christian, I always had a desire to express myself not only verbally, but musically. I would sit before the Lord (and still do) singing my little songs to Him. Some of them were for the moment and others stuck with me. Eventually, I became more involved, developing as a psalmist.

Don Corey Washington best describes a psalmist as "a sculptor who uses air as his medium instead of clay, metal, or stone. Music is his tool instead of a hammer and chisel. He 'sculpts' the air into an 'atmosphere' that directly corresponds to the moving of the Holy Spirit." The training for this is most unusual; there are no books or charts, practice hours are long and go generally into the wee hours of the morning; there is no recital and you play for an audience of One.

If Psalmist describes the "who" part of the name, then "Cyber" describes the "where." I realize that I am not able to convey one single musical note across the Internet, but my prayer is that the thoughts I pen will carry His tune and change the atmosphere of the World Wide Web.

If you had to give yourself a pen name, what would it be and why?

PUT ME TO THE TEST

2009-05-03T21:47:00.003-04:00

by Chrissy Larson

I have a love/hate relationship with tests. They certainly serve a purpose, in that the results generally prove something to somebody.

Last week, I had eight vials of my precious blood go to a lab. A technician somewhere examined it, looking for stuff (in other words, I'm not sure what.) Because I am frequently involved in research projects, I may never learn the results, unless they are not good. In my case, no news is good news.

That same week, I had to administer a test or final exam to 14 high school students. Personally, it was less painful than giving blood, but some of them probably would have taken the needle instead. It was my way of testing their knowledge to see if they walked away with what I was pounding home, week after week. Napoleon Dynamite surely would agree with me in saying this class taught them "skills."

Next week, my younger children will have the opportunity to participate in year-end testing. Some folks prepare ahead by having their kids study or brush up with test prep booklets. I, on the other hand, send them in cold turkey, assuming that if they didn't learn it by now, it's too late. (Not to say that preparing is a bad thing; on the contrary.)

My kids asked me why they had to take tests and I think my answer shocked them. I explained the results were not for me, but for them; that their scores would be compared to other children their age on a national scale. I also told them I was NOT concerned about the results; their score did not matter to me as much as it should matter to them.

At that moment, their disposition changed from fear to freedom. I was not the mean taskmaster (looking for a reason to ground them for the entire summer) they thought I was. It was a new feeling for me, as the weight of this responsibility shifted from mine to theirs. This is not to say that I am fully responsible for their education . . . it's just that I want them to own it for themselves.

Jesus wants us to understand this concept too. James 1:2-4 says, "Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. So don't try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way."(The Message)

There is liberty in facing the truth. When we avoid it, the chains of bondage grip us all the more. I suppose this is why James called testing a gift; he understood Jesus when He said, " And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." (John 8:32)

As I begin to fully understand God's motives, I am less likely to cower upon hearing Him call me to His exam room. I've come to learn the benefits and willingly utter, "Go ahead . . . put me to the test."

What do YOU think?

A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE

2009-04-27T22:09:00.003-04:00

by Chrissy Larson

Soon, we'll all be putting last-minute touches on another chapter in our books. It's hard to believe an entire school year has come and gone, yet it has.

I remember my mixed emotions around August of 2008 . . . I wondered how my family would fare, coming into a new co-op, after having been rooted in one for the last 16 years. But God was very clear in letting me know that change was coming.

My dad thrives on change too. He loved to buy old houses and fix them up, only to sell them and move on to another. My mother and I counted how many times she moved since she got married and it was astounding! (I think it was close to 15 times and he is NOT in the military.) She never intends to move again.

It's fun to open the door of your new home and look for what will be your bedroom. But it's not any fun to open your heart all over again to perfect strangers, hoping to find someone who will allow you to enter their already established social world. I had a fairly easy time making friends but I hated the usual awkwardness.

No sooner did I jump that hurtle, he was either talking about another move or it was a natural time to change schools (elementary to middle or middle to high school.) Nothing could be more inconvenient.

But, who ever said life was convenient. I've learned a lot through it all . . . I'm not afraid of new situations; my confidence is in Him and not myself; I'll lead OR follow, whichever is needed; I don't know a stranger; I'm not afraid to open a new door or shut an old one; I don't burn any bridges AND always try to finish well. (That's when it's the hardest to maintain integrity.) One last thing: it pays to be obedient, even when sacrifice is involved.

Sometimes I get weary and wish I could put my pen down. I'm tired of putting last-minute touches on chapters . . . I just want to finish the book! I've concluded that as long as I have breath in my lungs, I'm not done. Usually, He brings a word of encouragement or allows me to see His hand on my life. My true significance is jolted and I get my focus back.

I'm still not satisfied with what I've done and know I still need to put my mark on this life. The impression I've made is not deep enough. For those who know anything about sewing, it's like having a pattern that repeatedly needs cutting out. Jesus is at the core of every being; yet there are so many who refuse to look within.

So, should you continue to visit this cite, I warn you: I'll drive you to excellence hoping you will be driven to your knees in humility. I hope you remember some of the words I've penned, yet I never want the enemy to forget the threat you and I are to his schemes. It's my desire that you know the intent of the Almighty God and what He has for you. Your future is amazing!!!

My plan is to keep pushing and prodding, keep wishing and waiting, and yes, keep reeling and writing until you see. Whatever it takes, no matter the cost, in spite of the inconvenience, whether I move on or I stay, I intend on making a difference!

How do you intend to make a difference?

WHAT DOES LOVE LOOK LIKE?

2009-04-18T23:14:00.004-04:00

by Chrissy Larson

Just when I thought my eyes exhausted all the possibilities, God amazed me.

Over 30 years ago, I spotted love in the gleam of a man's eye. He was young, independent, and blonded by the sun. The love, I noticed, was not directed to me as much as it was lavished on the Lord. This made me love him all the more.

Then his love gave me a son and I was raptured all over again. I felt like a Queen put in charge of a royal prince. The first time I laid my tired eyes on him, he gave me a smile and a coo that took my breath away. He grew to be my best friend; someone in whom love could trust.

Five years later, the look of love took on a feminine side. She eased into my life with a redeeming quality that refreshed my passion and cultivated my wonder. Love looked exciting and mirrored me.

Six years and two lost-loves later, the unexpected look of love whisked me away and captured my heart once again. This time, the neediness was intoxicating. We mutually met on equal terms and my appreciation for him grows every day.

Last, but not least, the Lord had mercy on me and extended His grace in the form of an angel. Her look of love was that of prophecy and promise fulfilled. This kind of love stretched from my past to my future.

But today, love took me by surprise. It's now coupled together with treasures a princess brought to my prince, including the richness of her heritage. Along with the gleam he inherited from his father, and the depths of my eternal gaze, this blended little one emerged with 10 fingers and 10 toes, skin as soft as silk and the face of an angel. Her cry is for the Lord of Hosts and her voice will be heard among the nations, preparing the way for her generation. With her full lips and button nose, she ransacks our hearts and steals a grand new love now awakened.

Today, this is what love looks like.

(Maggie Elizabeth Larson)

There IS a HOPE!

2009-04-13T00:24:00.002-04:00

by Matt Malone

1 Corinthians 15:55 "O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?"

Easter Sunday is a very important Sunday, but why? It's certainly not about bunnies or getting some good ole Easter candy. THE TRUE meaning of Easter is about the resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Three days earlier, Jesus was beaten and crucified on a cross for the payment of our sins. But since He died, Jesus' disciples thought that all hope was gone, for He was their hope and now He had died. They forgot what He said about Him rising from the dead. When Peter and the other disciple saw the linen cloths lying in that tomb, they believed, and there was a hope again! Now there would always be hope! Praise God!

Ever been scared of death? I know I have. We shouldn't be, should we? Just as Christ was raised from the dead, so will His believers and death has no power over us. Something that God has really been teaching me lately is that He is our all in all; He is our hope and in Him we find eternal life. Since He is all these things, then the world has nothing to offer that is greater than this. He's also been teaching me that even in the worst of times, He is still right there with me, even when it doesn't seem like it. During our trials, that's when we should draw nearer to God. If we do, He will surely reward us and make us stronger in our faith. For He puts us through trials not to harm us, but simply because He loves his children and wants them to learn as they go and succeed in life. The best is yet to come.

So with all this said, my questions are . . .
Who is Jesus to you?
Do you find joy in the resurrection?
What does Easter mean to you?
What matters more to you, Easter or Christmas?

There's really not a right or wrong answer, I just want your personal opinion :-P.
I encourage all of you to read 1 Corinthians 15 (all of it.)

HE LOVES ME, HE LOVES ME NOT . . .

2009-03-29T21:47:00.004-04:00

Spring is such an amazing time of year. I am drawn to the sunshine that is ever-pouring from God's heaven. The weather has been surprisingly dry, allowing the atmosphere to be crisp and clear. This is such a fresh change from our normal haze of humidity. The sky seems bluer and the grass greener.

Too bad this season is so short. Before you know it, we'll be shutting doors and windows and turning on the air-conditioning for months to come. My husband thought I was crazy today when I chose to take a longer route in order to avoid the expressway. My reason for using back roads which would take twice as long? I wanted to roll down the windows and let the wind blow through my hair.

Today, I didn't want to be in a hurry. I'll be that tomorrow. I wanted to enjoy the day and the memories that Springtime always brings. When I was young, I used to ride my bike to an open field and spend hours looking through four leaf clovers, hoping for a trefoil. I can still remember how the March winds danced over the long, silky grass, doing a wave just for me. Clovers were sweet and dandelions in abundance; buttercups under my chin revealed I was a butter lover.

But most of all, I loved to pick wild daisies, plucking petals until the rhyme turned out right. Who wants to hear, "He loves me not!" My young heart hoped there would be someone who would love me one day.

I was right. I found Him in 1977. His love never relented and He romances me to this day. I always wanted someone who would adore me and care for me the way He does. His love goes down deep as sometimes that's where I hide; but He also celebrates with me in my high places. I've never known a love like this.

Daisy or not, one thing is for sure . . .
HE LOVES ME!

WHAT'S YOUR IDEA OF A HOLIDAY?

2009-03-23T20:40:00.003-04:00

by Demetri Maroosis

There are many holidays that we celebrate. It seems that when we finish one, we are moving on to the next. When we are putting away our Santa caps, we are getting out the sparkling fruit soda. I think that all the holidays of the year can get a bit overwhelming. I also think that some holidays are very pointless and their messages of Christianity have been twisted. Christmas is all about receiving instead of the giving of Christ's blood; St. Valentine's day is all about hearts and not about a great martyr.

If I could make a holiday it would have to be a whole week. My holiday would be vacation day times seven. I have noticed that most people can't just get a week off of work unless they get ridiculed by their boss. But, if we could have a vacation week, we could have a whole week off of working. You may think that this is crazy and we would not be able to survive. Well, people in France get a whole summer off. I found this out from a French guy at Disney World Epcot. That would be my kind of holiday.

So now my question turns to you; what is your idea for a holiday?

Technology: How Far is Too Far?

2009-03-16T19:18:00.008-04:00

by Kyle Owens

Many times I have logged onto YouTube and have seen a video of a robot playing a violin or performing some other talent I had only thought was capable by humans. These small but subtle steps in robotics make me think. How far is humanity willing to go in terms of robots? Many movies come to mind when I think of robots. Since this is a movie class I feel I can share them. Now before you call me paranoid, just think about these movies. Although they are forms of entertainment, and are fiction, many have a strong truth behind them. Robot and Terminator are the main two movies that come to mind. Humans create robot, robot adapts and learns, robot decides it does not need human. Now as I said before, these are fake movies, but we already have machines building cars, performing surgery, and my personal favorite, making other machines. Mankind seems to be so preoccupied by pushing the boundaries that they forget that sometimes it is the boundaries that keep us safe.

Think of a zoo. The lion does not eat the tourist, because it is behind a boundary, remove said boundary and the zoo now has a large lawsuit issue to deal with. I believe Dr. Ian Malcolm from Jurassic Park said it best when he said, “Your scientists were so preoccupied with whether or not they could, they didn't stop to think if they should.”

Yet again I would like to point out that I know these are fiction. But already scientists are building robots that can rebuild themselves and make copies. And every day, people are being laid off because a machine can do their job quicker, and cheaper. The military is investing in unmanned machines and robots. (Machines with weapon capabilities, if that’s not scary, I don’t know what is. Didn’t Wargames have a plot along those lines?)

We as humans must adapt or we will be left behind or Terminated (I couldn’t help myself.)

So my question to you is, how do you feel about the Continuum (Machines building Machines) and how do you think the world will change in the face of Machine?

This has more or less been a rant by Kyle Owens.

Watcha gonna do wich yo life?

2009-03-07T11:26:00.006-05:00

by Daniel Brooks

Why is it that whenever I introduce myself to an adult over 30, the conversation always proceeds as follows?

Me: Hi, I'm Daniel.

Adult: I'm Mr/s. Wo/man. Where do you go to school?

Me: I'm homeschooled.

Adult: Cool [not]. So, what grade are you in?

Me: I'm a senior.

Adult: Oh, really? Where do you plan on going to college?

Then I have to repeat my mantra of, "Oh, I'm gonna go to FCCJ [or FSCJ since the change] for a couple of years then . . . ya know . . . yeah." And then they'll start going on and on about where they went to college and scholarship stuff. And it's the same for every adult -- my teachers, my co-workers, even the oral surgeon I just met. It's all the same. It gets really old really fast. Take my advice and just skip 12th grade and go on with your life.

But at the same time it makes me think, "What am I going to do with my life?" I know I want to go to college and where but I haven't figured out my master plan yet. Do I want to get into this field or that one? This major or that? Then I have to start thinking about my future job, car, house, marriage . . . the list goes on. But I do know this: I want to be so successful at whatever I end up doing that I will want to go to work, not have to go to work.

So my question is: Where do you (or where do you want to) see yourself at the nagging age of 30?

The Outlets

2009-02-28T10:27:00.006-05:00

by Chrissy Larson

When you hear the word "outlet," what do you think of?

For those longing to shop and not be stuck in an enclosed building, the outlets are a great alternative to the indoor mall. If you happen to have extra money, where else would you rather be on a fine Spring day such as the those we have been experiencing lately, but strolling down a sidewalk, gazing in store windows. Every time the door swings open, the smell of retail wafts past your nose and out steps a contented addict with their "fix" in hand. Plastic-type bags never truly fill the void. But when you are handed your newly purchased merchandise in a paper-handled bag, you know you are in the zone. If you score a garment bag, life is very good!

If your addiction is fishing or boating, the word outlet might remind you of the place where you take your boat on any given day. An excuse to go can be conjured up in an instant. Living in what's known as "River City," there is one water inlet/outlet after another. I see folks on the river everyday reeling their addiction, who need no reason for getting out a pole and some bait.

However, most of us envision an electrical plug; the outlet being a place where we can plug something in and get something back. Electricity is one of best commodities ever invented by man! That plastic plate on my wall represents convenience and in just a matter of a seconds, my life becomes easier after I "plug it in."

But an outlet can also be a place or opening through which something is let out. For me, writing is that place. I never would have thought for a million years, that I had anything worth writing, much less any interest to others. This kind of mindset will keep us from doing just about anything. One day I woke up and said to myself, "I don't care if anyone ever reads what I have say, I just need the outlet." This begins my blogging journey.

The first time I heard the word "blog," I wondered if it was a new global warming term. Maybe Al Gore made it up and since I never follow him, I could have missed it. But the Internet (which he supposedly created) was full of them. At first, I was overwhelmed by information but after a little investigating, I found help. I decided if I was really going to do this (even if just for myself,) I wanted to do it right.

Last summer, I took several online classes, one of which was a Blog Writing Course (very reasonably priced) that literally walked me through the process, step by step. By the time I finished, I not only had the knowledge to set up my own blog site, I had a new confidence to express myself on the world wide web. I HIGHLY recommend it to anyone who is or has entertained the idea.

Blogging is one of my outlets . . . an opening through which I can let it all out. This freedom of speech allows me to bellyache and moan from the depths of my soul. But better than that, I have the liberty to scream from the top of my lungs that Jesus is King and His return is imminent.

What is your outlet and why does it work?

AND THE OSCAR GOES TO . . .

2009-02-23T08:21:00.003-05:00

by Chrissy Larson

. . . not who I thought it should.

I must say, I was sorely disappointed as I watched the 81st Annual Academy Awards. Walking down the "Red Carpet" we saw every "who's who" in Hollywood.

With a background in tailoring and dressmaking, I can't help but admire the gowns. To me, the fit of the dress and the model who wears it are just as important as casting is in a motion picture. Kate Winslet definitely got my vote in her beautiful Yves Saint Laurent gown.

The program went downhill from there.

In a nutshell, there were many good films whose names were never even mentioned. As the nominees were read, one could almost guess which film would be picked, based on the "message" that Hollywood wanted us to hear. Overall, the themes of those nominated where a far cry from what I considered appropriate.

As usual, I went away hoping for more out of an industry that is so powerful. Motion pictures are truly an art form I appreciate. Hollywood and all it's trappings, on the other hand, remain high on my prayer list.

Short, sweet and opinionated, I move on to the Question of the Week:

What movie of 2008 would you consider to be your top pick and why?

TIME TRAVELER FOR A DAY

2009-02-16T19:34:00.002-05:00

by Demetri Maroosis

The world has had amazing history ever since the time of Creation. There have been many famous Bible stories, battles, and ancient cities. There has also been the Pentecost, The Battle of Hastings, and World War II. It is amazing to see the history that God has orchestrated. You can see God's hand throughout all of history. You can see how God planned that Jesus would be born, die, resurrect, and come again.

If I could go to anytime in history it would have to be the Tower of Babel. I have always wondered what the Tower of Babel really looks like. No one has ever known for sure.

My question is simple, if you could go back to any time or place in history; where would you go?

TRADING PLACES

2009-02-09T21:01:00.004-05:00

by Alyssa Thrift

God's creations are amazing. Although humans are the most intelligent, animals have many great characteristics that humans don't have.

Birds can fly, sea creatures can breath under water, and some animals can sleep for a whole winter! God's creativity, when it comes to animals, is extremely amazing.

All my life, I have learned to love and appreciate all the creatures that live on the earth. If I could be any animal, I would definitely have to choose between a dolphin or a panda. (Those are pretty sweet animals in my opinion.)

There is NO WAY the earth could have been "an accident"; all the unique creatures that walk the earth prove it. I say that because a sudden explosion, or whatever scientist try to tell us these days, can NOT produce such outstanding creations; and especially SO many!

Think about it. . . What kind of animal would you be?

Based on skills, looks, or the uniqueness of each animal, tell me what kind of animal do you wish you could be?

I'M AN OPEN BOOK by Alaina Wenrich

2009-02-03T09:53:00.003-05:00

One of my most favorite things to do would be to read. I could just curl up in my room for hours with my ipod and a stack of books and I'd be ecstatic, heck, leave me alone in the library for a few hours and I couldn't be happier. One of the best things about books is their ability to draw you into them, so that you feel as if you're there with the main character, helping them through the trials they face. It's the authors of those kind of books that simply amaze me.

I practically grew up on fantasy books. It was always the ones with the pretty covers, the ones that just stood out and caught my eye, that I wanted to read. Some of my favorites as a child were The Hobbit, A Wrinkle in Time, and of course The Chronicles of Narnia. These books have remained with me as cherished favorites of my childhood, and will always hold a special place is my heart, but if I were to choose a favorite among my favorites, I would have to choose Narnia, the world that C.S. Lewis created is just too splendid to give up.

What would you say was your favorite book? If you don't have a favorite book, or if you just can't choose, then tell me your favorite genre of books.

NOTHING BUT A SAD PICTURE

2009-01-26T08:54:00.008-05:00

A couple of weeks ago, I posted a blog called, "Seal of Authenticity." Some were confused by this while others tracked with me from beginning to end. For those who did not get my point, I apologize for not being more concise. For those who'll admit they were wandering around in my musing, here's a rear view reflection . . . this time from someone else's perspective.

When blog responses come in, I can usually tell if you are truly interested in the subject or just appeasing me with your comment. This particular comment stuck out and I knew I hit a nerve.

With the author's permission, I have saved their response from that blog as this week's article and would ask that you voice your opinion to the author when you comment. It is raw, strong and opinionated, which I love.

"WANTING BUT DON'T RECEIVE, FAKE PEOPLE, AND FEEL GOODS

I could go to church every day for the rest of my life, read the bible everyday, say a prayer 100 times everyday and have that mind set. I could say I'm an authentic Christian. Sad to say this isn't the case. Faith gets you into heaven not a prayer.

I hate it how teens/people say there Christians, and you go to ask them how do you know and all they have to say is I go to church. All i do is cry on the inside. These people think that there living right. Trying there hardest everyday can't barely pay the bills. parents are getting high in the kitchen. Living life day to day struggling to make it through.
yet all along there deceived and confused.

all there wanting is that unconditional love that was promised to them by these heretic preachers sitting up in these pulpits lying to these people saying if you say these words. It's not the words that get them to heaven, It's the faith!!! They don't tell them that!!! They lie to make them feel good for the time being. All along we sit back watching it happen. We wonder why teenagers are committing suicide. Having sex because there looking for love in the wrong way. Doing drugs you name it. All because people are to afraid to tell the truth. Lets wake up and see the facts. People need truth. So quit feeding the lies. Quit putting oxygen to fire.

Then we got these preachers who think it's ok to be gay. They think that God loves you no madder what. Thats a lie from hell. God says to turn from evil and seek him, not do evil and seek him. Then were wondering why people say there confused. Look whats happening right in front of your eye's.

Then we have you common feel goods. Preachers who preach a feel good message instead of the truth. When all the while there afraid that they might offend someone. That there population in the church might go down. God didn't care!!! He said speak my word. He never said care if your going to offend someone. People are going to listen if they want to listen.

let me tell you something there is no such thing as an authentic christian.

you either believe or you don't

there is a heaven and a hell.

you will go to one or the other.

you will stand before God.

You will bow down before him.

end of story.

When you finally realize that it's the faith that makes you a christian. It's the blindness to it. It's knowing that there is no other way. It's knowing that God is God there are know in betweens.
Your way of life will change, but you have to be willing to try.

Martin Luther was blind towards God. He sought nothing but truth.
He was persecuted for it. He didn't care.

so let us pray Lead us from our evil ways let us not seek evil but seek you. let God do as he will in my life. let us set aside our pride for you. I Can't move on without you. I need you in my life. I am asking for your forgiveness to forgive me for all of my sins. I want to turn from my evil ways. I want to stop practicing these things. I want to live my life in your image. With my hands held high surrendering. I am asking you to come into my life and do your works.

To anyone that reads this. If you prayed this or have prayed this or something like it and are truly living for God, and truly surrendered you life to God. You will know If you are a Christian. You will feel like your Completely changed.

Your whole out look on things will change. You will notice your life going smoother. this doesn't mean there wont be trials. When you let God move he will move. you just have to surrender.

He loves all of us.

you just have to let him move.

This is how you know if someone is a christian or not. same goes for you and me.

Jesus said you will no them by there fruits.

Don't be fake, be real. Surrender, let him move, and love your life again.

this is my motto for authenticity.

Jesus loves you."

JoShUa DaViDsOn

2009-01-19T22:48:00.001-05:00

Look up the meanings of your first and middle names in either a book of names or on the Internet. Are you surprised?Let me know what you find and then explain the significance.

Seal of Authenticity

2009-01-12T09:53:00.003-05:00

Have you ever seen ads on TV for products which, because of their collectible nature or claim of origin, provide a seal of authenticity?

Who comes up this? Is there an office where authentic men and women gather authentic information to verify authentic items so we can then call them authentic? I always wondered.

So I went to Wikipedia, an authentic source of information (not really, because it is an encyclopedia that anyone can edit) to see what it said.

I found out here are two types of methods for proving authenticity. The first is comparing the attributes of one object to what is known about others of that origin. For example, for a painting, an art expert might look for similarities in the style, then check the location and form of the artist's signature, or compare the object to an old photograph.

The second type relies on some sort of documentation or other physical evidence such as an accompanying certificate. In the case of currency, we look for specific physical features and the fact that it should feel different than any other paper. Consumer goods are usually protected by a trademark or some other recognizable feature.

This explanation helped but we all know these methods can be tampered with. In my experience with prison ministry, I've shook hands those who have tried.

Just the other day, a friend of mine came by with purses she was helping a friend sell. Her display had everything from Channel to Prada, including Dolce and Gabbana. The handbags were absolutely beautiful, having the look and feel of being the "real thing."

Coca Cola used authenticity as their motto for quite some time. They wanted everyone to know that Coke products were real and the others were just a copy. I have found that sometimes people want a copy; for whatever reason, they may even like it better.

Jesus said in Matthew 13:30 that the enemy plants the copy amongst the real and that it will all be sorted out later. I have always had a hard time with this because I think there is a part of me that wants to expose what's fake right now. Too many people are being deceived and I hate that! Jesus explained the problem with trying to straighten things out now is that the authentic might get rooted up in the process and He didn't want that to happen. He went on to say that later, this would be the reaper's job.

This makes me consider my own authenticity. Can you tell that I belong to Him? Is there enough proof about me and the way I live my life so that others, especially the reapers, can see that I am for real? Because I can't stand pious posers and that includes myself!!!

If you had to make a list of counterfeits which helped to identify the fraudulent from the authentic, what three things would be on it?

The Song in My Head

2009-01-04T23:43:00.004-05:00

by Christina Horton

Imagine a world without music, one where not even the birds could sing. Only SILENCE and the dull sounds of everyday life would exist. Horrible, right?

Thankfully, we do have music, and some are even gifted in making it. Definitely, it plays a major part in human expression and inspiration, influencing artists, writers, and more. Because of this, I believe that you can tell a lot about a person just from what music they like.

When I was little, I listened along with my dad to the oldies of the ‘60s and ‘70s and to gentle pop songs with my mom. Also, I learned a great amount of hymns and classical music since I started playing piano and at that time attended a church that mostly sung out of the Baptist hymnal. Eventually, Christian contemporary/rock reached my ears as well as those of my family; alone (but with guidelines), I explored Christian scream-o, hip-hop, and rap. As I grew as a musician and as a typical human being, I began to find out more about myself and more about the kinds of music, including mainstream, that just expressed…me. Picking out my favorite sounds and words, I found the music to the song in my head, composed most importantly of praise to my Savior—the One who gave me the music—and also of pure enjoyment. It has the passion of Beethoven; the strong foundations of “Be Thou My Vision” and “What Wondrous Love is This”; the excitement of Bill Haley, the Beatles, and the Monkees; the spice of ragtime and jazz; the heartbeat of Jeremy Camp, Barlow Girl, and Chris Tomlin; the rock of Relient K, The Afters, Fireflight, Anberlin, and Sherwood; the originality of Sufjan Stevens and Unwed Sailor; and the creativity of my own compositions. There’s probably more…but you would be here all day if I mentioned every detail!

So, what kind of music expresses who you are?

What is the song in your head?

Snow In OZ

2008-12-27T23:52:00.005-05:00

It was one of my wishes this Christmas and it came true!

Just like the song, "I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas," I wished for snow this year. Living in Florida, frozen precipitation is classified as a miracle in these parts. But where I grew up, we had 12 inches one day and 18 the next. You were lucky to get Christmas cards because the mailboxes where completely covered over.

The last time it snowed in Jacksonville was 1989. That's almost 20 years ago, which tells you something. Nevertheless, I dreamed of it. After almost 31 years in the South, I still find it hard to wrap my mind around palm trees with Christmas lights on them. Jacksonville has it's fair share of cheesy inflatable snowmen, along with lighted wire reindeer, all displayed on green lawns with not a blanket of frost in sight.

But this year, while in Kansas City visiting my daughter, I was blessed with the white Christmas I longed for. As I looked out the airplane's window, I felt like Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz, wondering if I landed in a dream. Getting off, I immediately went to the car rental office. They asked me if I had any experience driving in snow. My past had served me well, giving me the necessary knowledge I needed. I'm so glad I did all those donuts in the High School parking lot after hours! I didn't know I would one day rely on such a valuable skill.

And skill was what I needed driving on the hilly streets of Kansas City. My PT Cruiser maneuvered well on the ice and more importantly, my heater worked on demand. I had forgotten how cold "cold" was. It's really cold! The gray snow skies covered the earth below like a dingy blanket; the streets were quietly serene. Footprints of friends coming and going from my daughters house showed me that snowfall didn't stop those committed to 24/7 prayer. Nothing stops them.

But after 4 days, I was ready to return to the tropics. I missed the snow days of my past and truly felt God's blessing as He orchestrated the conditions to remedy my hearts desire. I knew that snow had fallen just for me.

Then it was time . . . I found a fluffy patch to sink my feet into and began to click my heals together saying over and over again, "There's no place like home." It worked; I'm back!

It was strange sweating on Christmas Day with temperatures in the 80's, but I guess I'll learn to deal with it . . . someday.

ANGELS AMONGST US

2008-12-14T00:22:00.007-05:00

With the economy in crisis, stress levels at an all-time high, and depression knocking on 2009's door, some can truly relate to George Bailey in Frank Capra's classic, "It's A Wonderful Life." Watching this mans life through the camera lens of an angel named Clarence gives us just the "rear-view reflection" needed for the days to come.

The movie has many high points as the laugh meter rises to the top time after time, but I must say that one of my favorite parts is the very beginning when we hear numerous prayers being offered by those who believe He truly hears us. The camera slowly zooms out as requests are being made known and everyone seems to be clamoring at once. The script allows for a small cast of voices crying out to Him with various supplications. Yet God, in all His glorious splendor, chooses to listen and is moved by those who tug on His merciful heart.

As far back as my memories serve me, I remember my mom being a "tugger." Even if it was after I had fallen asleep, I still recollect her tip-toeing into my room to say a soft-spoken prayer over me. Each time she prayed, she tugged at His heart, asking for my safe passage through this life, as well as His blessing. Those words cover me to this day; their goal was and still is to accomplish all that was intended in the words which came off her lips.

I do the same for my children now, whether they are near or far. Already, I pray for their yet-to-be spouses, as well as the grandchildren I will soon hold. As a mother, tugging is my business, but as a believer, tugging is essential to my existence. Once you start tugging in sincerity, you become addicted sensing His pleasure in the asking. Strangely, because of this act, His heart is moved.

More than ever before, I feel an urgency to tug. As much as Hollywood attempted to portray this, we need to be sensitive to the leading of the Spirit when we pray. Just as many lifted the name of George Bailey to the heavens, God is calling His people to pray. If we could zoom the camera out the way Frank Capra did, we too would begin to hear the consistency in God's agenda.

This generation is very unique. Truly, these are exciting times to be alive in and 2009 will soon be overflowing with so-called change. Can prayer make a difference? Let me narrow this down even further . . . are there angels assigned to personally assist you? According to George Bailey, there are. Read Psalms 91:11-12 and let me know what YOU think.

I fell for it every year!

2008-12-08T21:12:00.005-05:00

The date was December 24th; the temperature was usually below zero; the time was always around 7:oo Pm, just after dinner. I can still remember standing with my face pressed to the cold plate glass. My breath on the inside of the window turned to thin ice as I stood there, knowing if I stared long enough, I might spot a twinkle.

Oblivious to everyone, my mother would ask my older sister to help me get my bath. Why now, I wondered? He'll be here any minute! Pleading with her did me no good. She always told me that if I hurried, I would get done before he came. One of my clever brothers tipped me off and suggested I mix the shampoo and the creme rinse together to save time. (He could have patented this idea and been the inventor of the first 2-in-1 shampoo.)

But it never failed. Every year, while the water was going down the drain and I was still dripping wet, I heard the echo of the jingle bells just before the door slammed shut. I scurried to get pajamas on my wet body, accomplishing very little. Frustrated I would miss him, I exchanged being half-naked in front of my family, for a chance to get a glimpse of his sleigh in the cold, December night sky. Then came my dad's famous words, "You just missed him!" But I was sure I had seen his shadow.

What happened next was nothing short of chaotic. We opened presents until we were silly and sleepy. Going to bed wasn't very hard as I usually slept with one of my new toys, knowing that the next day would be filled with endless hours of play and our traditional Italian feast.

Eventually, I learned the Christmas secret but I still can't figure out why I fell for it every year!

In no less than at least two paragraphs, describe your favorite Christmas tradition with plenty of details.

2008-11-24T23:29:00.004-05:00

Can you believe it? Christmas is only a few weeks away!!!

I started my Christmas shopping a few months ago so I feel like I am ahead of the game. This year, I tried a different gift strategy with my kids. When it came to picking out their gifts, I took them shopping with me. They should be 100% pleased with what is under the tree this year and just in case they change their minds on any of the items before I wrap them, they have the opportunity to exchange BEFORE Christmas. The anticipation seems greater, even though both of them know what they are getting. The torment of having the stuff somewhere in the house and not being able to touch any of it is killing them.

My kids are asking me for my list and it's hard to think of ideas on demand. All year long, I come across great gift ideas for myself but for some reason, I'm at a loss. Most of the things I want are either too expensive or they are items I would like to pick out myself. Maybe I should use my new gift strategy on myself!

Eventually, I'll come up with a list of well-deserved items. When my kids ask their Dad to take them Christmas shopping for me, they'll be well-informed little shoppers, brainwashed by me, to spend lots of Daddy's hard-earned money.

But what makes me think I should get everything my little heart desires? Well, for the most part, I have been a good girl. I haven't been naughty very much this year and truly thought of others before myself. Basically, I've been perfect in every way. Don't you think I should get everything on my list?

How about you? Please explain why you think YOU should be spoiled this year . . . everything on your list, wrapped and under the tree.