Penning For Your Thoughts

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

2012-01-30T03:32:00.000-05:00

Now That's Something I Could Do Without!

Ya know, if there was one thing I could do without in my life, it would be sleep. As much as I love to sleep, and enjoy making zzzzz's, I wish it wasn't a requirement. It takes up 6-8 precious hours of my life, involves a time-consuming bedtime routine, and interrupts the flow of my nocturnal creative juices.

I have so many better things to do other than sleep, like write music, sew, scrapbook, write, read, research, organize, play, cruise, fix and build, cook, clean, shop on-line, etc., etc. The list goes on and on. I fight against going to bed because it's in the wee hours of the night that I can finally hear myself think. It's also when all my little chicks and the rooster are tucked in tight that I have the complete run of my quiet house. No one is calling my name!

When forced to slumber, I must face extra dental duties, forebear swallowing evening supplements, and follow through with various other personal responsibilities, all of which annoy me. Unlike other family members of mine who don't mind following every rule, I shrink back with a bit of rebellion at the thought of having to fulfill all of my bedtime routine.

The only routine I enjoy is saying "goodbye" to a chaotic day and "hello" to some me-time. With the rest of the house asleep, I can look forward to uninterrupted bliss. Something flips my creativity switch on and away I go, as if it's the top of the morning!

As I write this blog, it's almost 3:30 AM (I guess that IS the top of the morning) and I realize I need to PUT my body to bed. As much as I wish I could get along without sleep, I do enjoy fluffing my pillow, getting into the fetal position, and watching a dream sequence on the backside of my eyelids. Sleep is a good way to end the day and certainly helps me greet a brand new one, complete with all it's challenges. So for my own good, I'll say goodnight. But before I go, I must ask you one question...

If there was one thing you could do without in your life, what would it be???

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

2012-01-17T22:56:00.000-05:00

Playing Your Hand
(This "Question of the Week' is written by Walter Morris, a 12th Grade student in my Movies As Literature class.)

Every day people die knowing full well that they will never be rich, or famous, or happy. It is a sad fact, yes, but a fact none the less, and a fact that one should not disregard. For it is our success that defines us as human beings, no? It’s kind of a cruel game. We are given this gift, this wonderful and terrible gift, and we are expected to make the most out of it in some way or another. And if not, then we have failed. Sometimes I catch my mind wandering about the people who make the most menial things I use. For example, buttons. All they do is hold clothes together, and sometimes not even very well. There are alternatives to buttons, surely. And even some that may be more effective and advantageous. So what about the person who makes these buttons? What is their impact on the world? - to hold sweaters together. And I will never know the name of the person who made the buttons on my sweater, and he or she shall never know me. And we will continue on in our lives to think very little about each other, and then we will die. Se la vie.

It is important to ask oneself, periodically, whether it is possible to ‘fail’ at life - to not achieve success. Given the sheer number of people the Earth moves in and out each day, I’m sure there has to be at least one who never accomplished their goals. At least one who reached for the stars, but never touched them. And of course there is the other end of the spectrum. People like Martin Luther King Jr., and Albert Einstein, and Mozart and Bach and Voltaire and Mahatma Gandhi. They are more famous and wealthy than this poor button-maker, but are they just as integral a part in the advancement of civilization? Surely someone made MLK Jr.’s buttons. But when one does not amount to much in contrast with these truly great people, does this define failure? Does this mean that all the hard work and effort John Doe put into school, and work, and relationships, and friends, has it all been in vain? Or is failure merely a human invention designed to motivate the human race to progress and thrive out of fear? Is success possible? Is failure? And most importantly, can one win a game that one never had a choice to play?

We are thrust into this world with very little. Feeble and young, we rely on our parents to help us survive. And slowly but surely, we learn. We learn about colors and shapes, and colors and shapes turns into letters, and then reading, followed by simple math, and more complex math, and social studies and geography, and religion. All the while establishing a foundation for ourselves in the way of a moral compass, and a conscience, and our personality. But the question remains: is one human more valuable than the next? We try to tell ourselves over and over that all humans are equal and valuable in their own rights, but we don’t buy it. Faced with a burning building, a bum and a lawyer trapped inside, it is obvious which one you would choose. And faced with a life of humble hard work only to earn barely enough to pay the bills, and a life of fame and fortune and glamour, the answer is obvious as well. But I remain determined yet to forge on through the incandescent flames of opportunity, naive and bullheaded. For the only constant in life is that one must play the hand he is dealt.

Classmates, in no less than 5 sentences explain to me what defines your personal success, how you plan to achieve it, and how you would feel if you fell short."

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

2012-01-08T01:01:00.000-05:00

It's Never Too Late!

Have you ever said that to someone?
To yourself?

What makes or breaks this statement is the strength and conviction behind it. It means I either believe in you more than you believe in yourself OR you believe in you more than anyone else.

Over a year ago, I had a very serious talk with the Lord about some pretty major issues going on around me and in my life. Instead of answering me directly, He subject jumped me. (That's when you ask a question and instead of an answer, the person changes the subject. I HATE THAT!) The Lord gave me a challenge instead of an answer. He said to my spirit, "I want you to take it up a notch." What a wide-open statement! I could apply it to whatever arena of my life I wanted to. I asked the Lord for more clarification and He said, "Do something you never said or thought you could do... something others said you could never do. I'm gonna teach you courage."

I began to toss that idea around in my mind and recall saying, "Ill never ride my own motorcycle." Then I remember my husband said that to someone in a conversation, "You'll never see Chrissy riding a motorcycle. I'm lucky to get her to ride on the back of mine." I knew what I needed to do but it wasn't going to happen easy.

I began to do some research and started talking around. I found out about a Confidence Building Class for women who wanted to learn to ride. It was a one hour class taught for free at The Roar in Daytona Beach, Florida. I grabbed my sister, who was ready to get her endorsement and together, we took the class.

Shortly after that, we both signed up for our motorcycle endorsement class and before you know it, I had "Motorcycle Also" stamped on my driver's license. I found a bike in Tampa, Florida that suited me and trailered it straight to The Roar for them to service, as well as have them make adjustments to custom fit it to match my vertical challenges.

The first test of my courage came the day The Roar called me to say my bike was ready for pick-up. I would have to drive it home from Daytona Beach. Gary charted a scenic route for my maiden journey and followed me in the car as I captained my ride back to Jacksonville. Was I scared? Yes. Did it take courage? Absolutely! But I accepted the Lord's challenge and took it up a notch. He showed me there was more to me than meets my own eyes and there is way more to Him than the eye can see.

There's not a ride that goes by where I don't sense God's power and strength. I feel Him in the wind and smell Him in the breeze. He fascinates me each time I go for a cruise and often times, I'm able to share my story with biker wanna-bes who have no idea the short distance between their wishes and what could be their realities.

Just so you know, I'm not done stepping it up. I have had the Lord speak to me very specifically about other challenges, some of which I have already taken Him up on. On a side note - Remember those serious questions I mentioned before? Even though He side-stepped me, somehow many of those questions were answered along the way. Go figure :)

What if Jesus told you to "step it up a notch?" What would that entail for you?

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

2011-11-14T12:06:00.005-05:00

Re-Opened Doors by Garrett Larson

Have you ever had a favorite restaurant or store that closed? When I was a kid, we went to an Italian fast-food restaurant called Fazoli’s. My family went to there almost every Sunday for lunch after church. A couple of years later, all the Fazoli’s in Jacksonville closed, probably because they did not have enough business, which was devastating to me. If I had known they were going to close, I would have given them more business and told more people about it.

My favorite item on the menu was the Italian Sampler, which included Spaghetti, Lasagna, and Stuffed Shells, along with all-you-can-eat, steaming hot, garlic bread sticks. To complete my meal, I had a refreshing ice cold Coca-Cola. Since they closed their doors, I have not found a replacement. Keep in mind, I come from an Italian family and can eat the best Italian food anytime. But Fazoli’s was fast, fresh Italian for on the go.

One weekend, I traveled to Tifton to spend time learning about Biology from my brother’s Father-in-law. On the way there, we drove past a Fazoli’s sign and my heart skipped a beat. My mom promised to take me there on the way home. During the entire time I was in Tifton, the restaurant was in the back of my mind. All I could think of was the Italian Sampler and the never-ending breadsticks.

It took and hour to get from Tifton to Valdosta, which seemed like forever. The Sampler was exactly the way I remembered it… hot, saucy, and delicious. I ate every bite! Even though there isn’t a Fazoli’s in Jacksonville and I’m still craving their food, all I have to do is drive to Valdosta to eat at a Fazoli’s.

If you could re-open a place that has closed, what would it be and why?

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

2011-11-06T01:10:00.005-04:00

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what is the one item (besides your Bible) you would most want to have with you? Explain your answer.

OK, I know what some of you are thinking... there is no right or wrong answer and really, anything goes on this one. This might sound bizarre but I would want my pillow.

I have a great pillow right now and I would certainly want this particular one with me on my island, but any pillow would do, under those circumstances.

When I was a very young girl, I had a latex foam pillow that I really loved. I loved it so much, I carried it into my marriage with me 30 years ago. I used it for a good while, even though it did not match my husbands pillow on the other side of the bed. That would bother anal retentives, but it never bothered me.

One evening, I knew it would be my last night sleeping with it. I unzipped the protective cotton cover and saw that the majority of the contents had turned into a pile of yellow crumbs which resembled crushed Captain Crunch cereal near the bottom.

The next day, my search began for the perfect replacement. After years of trying, I had finally found one that felt right. It's one of those memory foam pillows that is contoured for your head. It will never be the same as my old pillow, but I have had many a good nights rest with it.

That is why I chose my pillow. I figured a good nights rest would be pretty high on the priority list while stranded. With all those strange sounds in the night, my pillow would be a comfort - something I could hug if I was scared.

I could even draw a face on it and talk to it when I got lonely.

Not to mention, much softer that a rock to sit on.

As I pondered further, I thought of a dozen other things I could use my pillow for.

That's my choice for now. Who knows, it might change after this gets posted. I might want my iPad instead.

Cyberpsalmist

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

2011-10-30T23:46:00.005-04:00

S'MORE FUN, PLEASE!

Last night, I hosted an outing for the Youth Group at my church, Oakleaf Christian Fellowship. Mom's and dad's, along with their teenagers, journeyed to Connor's Amazing Acres, which is a corn maze, out in the middle of nowhere, Florida. Under the sliver of a moon hanging low in the night sky, we found our way through a corn maze in the dark, gazed at the stars on a hayride, and huddled around a bonfire roasting marshmallows; the perfect way to spend an Autumn evening.
(Pictured left: Mom's in the corn bin!)

What could be more fun than trudging through a dark corn maze full of thrill-hungry folks, earnestly trying not to get lost? Our only hope to ever make it out was to answer various clues that either left us lost or sent us right on our way. Every now and then, something or somebody popped out of the dark, sending ear-piercing shrikes into our quiet, rural surroundings. With the help of a flashlight and a good attitude, our team made to the exit in one piece.

After the maze, our entire group boarded two trailers filled with fresh hay and set out for the "back 40," where we enjoyed a star-gazer's delight. The sky was filled with sparkling illumination, set in the sky by His Majesty, Himself. City folks like us sat amazed as we are not usually able to see such a stellar display. The tractor's engine, along with the rise and fall of excited voices, were the only sounds we heard on our lazy hayride.

Last but not least, the highlight of the evening... S'mores! I'll never forget where I was the very first time I ever ate this delectably sweet combination of three very simple ingredients. The marshmallows must be roasted to perfection and then slipped between two crisp graham crackers, along with the addition of a small slab of chocolate. The key is patience... patience to wait for the chocolate to melt BEFORE you take your first bite. And then the inevitable happens - you want s'more S'mores!

With just the right amount of chill in the air, the S'mores, hayride, and corn maze were a perfect Fall fit. Everything from the long and winding drive to our destination, to the last roasted marshmallow, it was a fabulous evening. I'm a glutton for fun and already I'm ready for S'more!

If you could name one thing you can't get enough of, what would it be?
Cyberpsalmist

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

2011-10-23T11:01:00.010-04:00

A Must Read

I recently had to move on in an area of my life. Everyone kept asking me what was "wrong?" I guess it was either my mood, facial expressions, or the fact that I feel unsociable at times that gave them cause to wonder. What I had to get friends and family to realize was, it wasn't about what's "wrong" with me, it was about what was "right."

Generally, I'm a pretty happy, easy going person. Granted, my Italian temper goes from 0-90 in two seconds but I calm down just as fast as I light up. While I can't give myself an excuse to be angry and sin, I do recognize this trait to be somewhat cultural. Italians have been described in many places as fiery and feisty... short fused and intense. On the other hand, we are passionate people, full of mercy. My mood can obviously change like the direction of the wind, happening any time and not necessarily generated by mood.

My mother said that even as a baby, my mood was happy. Her most difficult task was feeding me - I would rather smile than drink my bottle. I don't notice if I'm smiling or not since for me, the expression has nothing to do with how I'm feeling. I guess my face doesn't know the difference. Then there are those blank days... it's like when the computer tower is on but you forget to flip on the monitor; everything is running like it should, only know one else can see the screen. For someone like me, it's perceived as "something is wrong."

Not only am I misunderstood, I'm not aloud to be unsociable. My husband finds this the most difficult trait of mine to comprehend. He is used to seeing me on a stage (as well as partly responsible for putting me there) which to him is synonymous with sociable. What he hasn't grasped is although I have no trouble communicating with large crowds of people, I am more comfortable in smaller groups. Sometimes this doesn't translate well.

My life is an open book so don't just look at the cover. I've been known to laugh when I'm suppose to be serious and cry when I'm happy. Whats more, my reactions are not always what others expect. Yet deep inside, all is as it should be and God has complete control of my life. Whether it be an inherited disposition, a blank stare, or bashful demeanor, it's possible to read me wrong.

When are you misread?

Cyberpsalist

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

2011-10-14T13:21:00.007-04:00

Chunk of Change

Fall is the time of year when I think about change... the weather begins to change, the leaves change color and the time changes, due to daylight savings. Although change can be good, bringing spice to my routine, not all modifications bring improvement. Sometimes it's inconvenient and comes at the wrong time. Other times, I get weary in the waiting. If I could change three things about my life right now, I would want to grow about four inches, remodel my entire house, and go back to college to finish my degree.

Being vertically challenged has its advantages. For some reason, people associate youth with height. I guess it's because adults are usually looking down at children. Who knows, I never question a good thing. Another benefit is being placed in the front row when it comes to photographs. Regarding dressmaking, being fun sized means I need less fabric to make a garment. But sometimes I just wish I could be about four inches taller. Those extra inches would definitely put me in a different height/weight category... you know, those dreadful charts the medical professionals use to determine if you are overweight - or not.

The other thing I would like to see changed is the interior of my entire home. I love my property and the layout of my house is cozy, but it's in need of serious architectural reconstruction. Although right now I'm in the process of remodeling my kitchen, I'm already thinking about the next room I need to transform. With its wood paneling and drafty windows, my red brick ranch home reflects the true style of the sixties and the sixties are where it's stagnated. Every day, it begs me for a face-lift! I wish I had the money to remodel it all at once, then at least all the rooms would have some sort of design cohesion.

The last thing I'd change would be the sense of unfinished business that hovers over me like a gray cloud. After high school, I went away to college to pursue a degree in Clothing and Textiles. It covered everything from Fabric Science to Drafting & Design. I was completely immersed in my field of my dreams but due to unforeseen circumstances, I never completed the course. To this day, I live with gnawing regret. I met the Lord between the Spring and Fall semester of 1978 and because of the massive changes taking place in my life at that time, I never made it back to school. Although I was able earn a living using my sewing skills, I never reached the goal I had intended for myself. There is something to be said about finishing what you start. Who knows, maybe one day I'll have the opportunity.

If change is possible, then we need to be chasing after it. Our desire must be strong enough to give us the gumption necessary to grasp hold of that which is still within our reach.

Sure, changing my educational status from incomplete to finished is slightly possible, and a whole-house renovation is feasible, if I can lay my hands on a big chunk of change. But in order to add four extra inches to my stature, I'm gonna need a creative miracle, and according to Matthew 6:27, ("Has anyone, by fussing in front of the mirror, ever gotten taller by so much as an inch?" The Message) it won't benefit me one bit! Ugh!!!

If you could change three things about your life, what would they be???

Cyberpsalmist

Question of the Week

2011-10-10T14:03:00.009-04:00

BESIDES DESSERT

"Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens,
Bright copper kettles and warm woolen mittens;
Brown paper packages tied up with string,
These are a few of my favorite things."

Not mine, but Maria from the movie, "The Sound of Music." Although I have compared myself to her, our opinions differ when it comes to what tickles our fancy. Some of the things I call favorites include tomatoes, two wheels and twilight.

My family has a special spaghetti sauce recipe which goes back many, many generations. It is not written down but learned "over the shoulder of the older." This ritual right of passage is usually a rather big event and includes a meal made by the student. Only family members are privy to the recipe so just in case you thought you could weasel the recipe out of me, know there's NO WAY to get it except you "marry in." (Line up, guys and gals... I still have three available offspring who have rights to the recipe!) Do I need to tell you how absolutely delicious this gravy is? That it's robust flavor and delicate texture draws taste-buds for miles? How it's aroma leisurely mesmerizes anyone in it's path? The "Sauce" makes anything it relaxes on, my favorite.

Speaking of relaxing, nothing eases tension like a ride on my motorcycle. From start-up to kick-stand down, all my stress seems to roll off as I slip the clutch into gear. It's sleek profile and classy burgundy/cream exterior give me a sense of pride, knowing he was modified just for me. (Yes, you heard me right, I said "he." I prefer my motorcycle be male instead of female.) Some of my favorite roads take their residence in the mountains of North Carolina, but when I can't be there, a ride along the St. Johns River through Mandarin in the moonlight beats all.

Moonbeams on the river remind me of twilight touching the soft cheeks of my sleeping children. I especially love tip-toeing into my kids rooms to watch them sleep. They don't believe me when I tell them about the kissing liberties I've taken... not having to fight a child who's too busy or too old for such nonsense. It's my way of getting what's mine, not to mention how gratifying it is.

Enjoyment comes in many forms and what floats your boat or makes you smile varies tremendously from person to person. The beauty of it is no one need agree with your choices. I truly believe God intended for simple pleasures to reverse negative circumstances. That's why it's no coincidence that "stressed" is "desserts" spelled backwards!

My curiosity is up! What are a few of your favorite things?

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

2011-10-03T23:04:00.018-04:00

UNDER MY SKIN!

In general, I'm a pretty easy-going person. I tend to see the glass half full and give people the benefit of the doubt. But there a few things that get my goat, rub me raw, and just plain stick in my craw. I get angry when people cut me off in traffic, when something sticky gets spilled, and when innocent children suffer abuse.

Honestly, I don't understand why people would want to cut me off. In fact, I take it downright personally. While it's not always easy to be Mr. Nice Guy, preferring the other driver, it's especially difficult to smile at the idiot who is mercilessly merging onto the highway, as though they were there first! This is a true test of my self-control.

If you want to test the strength of my last straw, just spill something sticky in my kitchen. To put me over the top, forget to clean it up! I have zero tolerance for this kind of offense. It not only affects me, it spreads as you take your next step, going where you go, leaving its nasty trail for everyone to step in. The clean up is endless.

Endless describes the ripple affect abuse has on innocent children, as well as generations to follow. From the robbery of all self-esteem, to the possibility of an inherited behavioral trait themselves, this injustice takes the cake. According to the scriptures though, I am allowed to get righteously angry about this. So much so, I am moved to pray for those who have no voice and no defense. My intercession to the Father can then become their silent cry when no one hears.

Whether my peeves are personal, spread to others, or affect upcoming generations, these all get under my skin. But I have come to realize that how I respond to these situations, whether internally or external, is really what's on the line. Still, abuse is unjust, sticky is unnecessary, and road rudeness is totally undeserving.

Question of the week...

What three things grind your gut, blow your fuse or really cheese you off and why?

Cyberpsalmist

Question of the Week

2011-09-25T00:32:00.007-04:00

MAKING MY LIST, CHECKING IT TWICE

Some of you may have seen the movie "Bucket List" starring Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman. It's about a man who keeps a list of all the things he wants to do before he kicks the bucket. After finding out his time on earth may be cut short, he decides it's time to get as much checked off the list as possible. Seeing the movie, coupled with having the "C" word knock on our family's door, I began to consider what my bucket list might have on it and decided to share with you three things I have yet to check off.

Out of all seven continents, I have only been on two. I've traveled more than I ever dreamed I would, seeing such countries as Canada, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, England, Denmark, Sweden, France, Luxembourg, Belgium, Switzerland, Germany, Italy, not to mention the Bahamas and 38 of the 50 US states, including Hawaii. But my desire is to have my feet touch all seven continents. I have five more to go.

For me, traveling fulfills one of my deepest heart desires, but running a close second is singing. I grew up in a very musical family and watching Mom sing every weekend in nightclubs made it look so easy. With that kind of an influence, it was as natural for me to pick up a microphone as it was to bake a cake... she taught me how to do both with ease. Today, we each use our talent to glorify His name but I still have a longing to sing those same standards she use to sing. One day, I would love to record some of those old tunes myself.

Recording is not as costly as traveling to five more continents but going to the International House of Prayer in Kansas City for three months might come close. I have always dreamed of enrolling in one of the three month internships at IHOP-KC. The program is designed to immerse you in a deeper walk of intimacy with Jesus as well as expand the prophetic giftings. Although I could take my two youngest teens with me, I haven't figured out how to be gone from my husband for that long a time. Besides the cost of the internship, housing, and food, saving for this would have to include numerous trips back and forth so we could all see each other. Maybe this one is too big a dream.

Have I sight my sights too high or fallen short when it comes to grabbing at the abundance He promises? Already, I've had the opportunity to travel, visiting places all over the world. More recently, I've accomplished some extreme personal challenges I thought I would never face. Yet each new adventure has been totally Spirit led and truly purpose driven. Some have accused me of going through a mid-life crisis while others think my new found hobbies are pretty cool. My check boxes continues to grow and I've finally decided nothing on the list is impossible unless He says no.

Please share three things you have on your bucket list...
I'd love to know!

Cyberpsalmist

Question of the Week

2011-09-19T11:29:00.005-04:00

The first time I went bowling, I thought, "No sweat, I can handle this. Just throw the ball down the alley and hope for the best." Little did I know the weight, aim and release of the ball had everything to do with my success at knocking down the pins. After numerous gutter balls and one very embarrassing moment, I realized I had a lot to learn.

As I write this blog, I am sitting in a noise-ridden, teen populated bowling alley, where two of my children are members of a league. The exhilarating sound of balls striking pins means the music playing over the sound system is taking a back seat. In front of me is a rack of balls in all sizes, colors and weights.

Normally, I would pick up the lightest ball I could find and assume that because of it's weight, I had a good chance of sending it straight down the lane. But that's not always true. Too light a ball can be a detriment. When a ball is too heavy, the weight makes it almost impossible to swing your arm and get the momentum you need to strike the pins.

Not only is weight important, aiming the ball means everything. There's a pocket bowlers look for where the ball can strike down the most pins. I found out the marked arrows in the lane are there to help you with just that.

Another technique that is crucial is knowing when to release the ball. When it's time to swing your arm into action, you must follow through and let the ball go at just the right place before letting go. Dropping to soon means less forward motion; letting go too late doesn't take advantage of the momentum already in progress.

So much to think about! Why can't I just have some fun and forget all of this technique mumbo-jumbo? Can't I just throw the ball down the alley and hope for the best like I said earlier? The last time I did that, I under-estimated my strength (bowling with too light a ball) and sent it two lanes to the left! After that, I decided I better learn a little bit more about bowling.

That was soooo embarrassing!!!

Question of the Week- Tell me about one of your most embarrassing moments

Question of the Week

2011-09-10T20:51:00.011-04:00

COMING ATTRACTIONS

I was thinking about one of my favorite movies the other day. I realize most of you would not have this title on your top 10 list but it most certainly sits high on mine. Rodgers and Hammerstein's The Sound of Music starring Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer opened nationwide in living color around March of 1965. It might have been the era I grew up in, the architecture of the old theater, or the fact that this true story slightly mimicked my own life which contributes to the fact that this movie ranks very high on my list.

I grew up in a day and time when movies stayed in theaters for months and only one movie showed at a time. The Stardusk Drive-In was my parent's favorite theater because they could pile us all in the back of the station wagon in our pajamas with a grocery bag full of popcorn and a thermos jug of Kool-Aid. What made the venue inexpensive and family-friendly was the fact that they were charged by the carload instead of by the head and conveniently located on the grounds just below the huge screen were several rows of swing sets for bored, restless children.

The movie I'm talking about was not shown at the drive-in.

It played at the beautiful, historic Sheboygan Theater. I still remember the midnight blue ceiling of the theater with it's realistic sparkling stars. The interior resembled a summer evening in a romantic Spanish garden. Happy to have any seat on the floor, I dreamed of sitting in the box seats above me, just like in the movies. I anticipated the opening of the velvety scarlet colored curtains which revealed the shimmering silver screen.

Little did I know that same movie screen would also reveal a piece of my life. Just as Maria longed to devote her existence to the Lord through music and a life-long commitment to the church, I shared the same passions. At a very young age, I asked my parents if I could visit a convent to either prove or put to rest my desire to become a nun. Like Maria Von Trapp, I had a permanent song in my heart but my desire for children always seemed to get in the way of choosing a life of celibacy.

Four children and many songs later, I look back on the way that movie impacted me. I needed Maria to show me that I could serve the Lord just as fervently outside the convent as in. I needed the Mother Superior's advice to follow my heart and I sincerely needed Captain Von Trapp to instill hope that a Lover and a Rescuer would soon come for me as well. Whether it was the era, the building or the movie's mirror imaging, the "Sound of Music" was a coming attraction of my life.

What movie has made a big impact on your life and why?

I'd love to know...

Cyberpsalmist

Chrissy Larson

MUSIC TO MY EARS

2011-09-05T00:00:00.007-04:00

Lately, I'v been thinking about how music affects me. I have cd's in my car that rotate, going from my player to the visor storage case and then to the house. Some have a shorter season than others while others rarely get the eject button.

It's been said that music is the universal language. I know this statement is true from first-hand experience. On my first missions trip to Jamaica, I was performing a sound check with an instrument that had a built-in rhythm section and used a drum beat to test the sound system. As soon as it began to play, people stopped what they were doing and started to clap or dance along. Before the beat started, folks wondered who I might be and what my business was there. But after the rhythm filled the room, nothing mattered.

My mood will often dictate what I want to listen to. If I feel like putting an exclamation point on my emotions, I'll choose accordingly. On the other hand, if I need an adjustment in attitude, I will use certain music genre's to accomplish that. I saw a wall plaque that defined this appropriately... "Music is what feelings sound like."

Technically, music is the art of organizing sounds and silence. The composer decides which instruments to use and when, along with when to let the song breathe. The Bible describes that moment as a selah, or intentional space given for the purpose of meditation. Not all writers and composers give regard to the fact that music is therapeutic, whether they like it or not. It can be either positive or negative. I learned one of the best lessons from an instructional DVD series which pointed out that measures of rests were just as significant as the measures with music.

Music affects people in more ways than I have described here. It truly speaks a language

everyone understands, can enhance your mood or change your frame of mind, and provides

either healing or harm. Anyway you define it, it's music to my ears.

If your life was a song, what would the title be? Why?

I'd love to know...

Cyberpsalmist

Chrissy Larson

2011-07-20T20:11:00.005-04:00

Are We There Yet?

I still remember asking that as a child amongst five other siblings, who inquired just as persistently and random as the last one. My poor parents... they did all the planning, preparing and packing, while we pecked away at them with that age-old question, all the way to our destination. The answer was always the same - "almost."

Now that I'm a parent, I see the torment that accompanies this simple scenario. Your innocent, loving children, with adventure in their hearts, sitting in the back seat, dreaming of what their destination will be like. Will it be wide open and spacious? Not like that of the car for the last 17 hours. Will they have to share anything? Maybe their siblings will somehow disappear into thin air. Will they be allowed to run like the wind with no boundaries and curfews in this new utopia?

On the contrary! My mind is conjuring up ways to keep them close, safe and protected in our new and strange environment. If they could read my mind as we come to the end of our journey, their dreams might be shattered. Now, don't get me wrong... I have a bit of a wild spirit myself and thrive on new adventures but my nature as a mother is to err on the side of caution.

So, what's the deal? Why do children feel the need to ask such an annoying question over and over? If they had any brains in their heads, they'd leave us alone and just let us drive. After all, when we get there, we get there. On the other hand, why do we as parents, beat around the bush when it comes to answering? If we were smart, we would calculate the miles on a GPS and give them an ETA. Surely this would stop the unnecessary badgering.

I've tried both ways and believe me, none of it works. No matter how vague or precise the answer, we still hear the questioning again and again. Kids have a kind of radar in their heads, constantly looking for a beacon from you to locate everything from the flight plan to when the plane will land and we are their air traffic control tower.

Not much has changed since I was that kid in the back seat of my dad and mom's 1971 Ford Country Squire station wagon. I've been asking Jesus the very same question. I have radar in my heart and I'm constantly looking for direction from my Strong Tower. I feel like my life is far from over with many more miles to travel but are we there yet?

What are your thoughts?
Cyberpsalmist - Chrissy Larson

A LUCKY BREAK?

2010-05-05T23:55:00.002-04:00

Dear Sweet Friends,

I have good news to report - God is good!

When I went to the hand surgeon and I signed in at the desk, I noticed this hand surgeon graduated from a medical school in my home state of Wisconsin - I had a feeling this was going to be interesting but did not know how.

After having him review my x-rays, he then felt around on my hand (ouch) and explained he had seen success/failure with both setting the bone as well as surgically using pins. He asked me if he could numb my hand and then feel around again so as to make a better assessment. He also said that it looked like it was broke in such a way that did not lead him to believe there was nerve damage or that the joint was or would be affected by his course of treatment.

After numbing the hand (double ouch) he manipulated it into position (triple ouch) and then splinted it. He then x-rayed the hand to view his work, making sure it was in a good position to heal.

During the course of the examination, I found out the surgeon knew my deceased father-in-law's best friend, who we heard stories about on a regular basis. Suddenly our worlds shrunk as we found our connection to one another. We shared a few stories and laughed together.

After the x-rays processed, he determined that the set was a success and said if I would truly behave myself for the next 2 weeks, not lifting a finger with the left hand, it just may work. I vowed to not cook, clean, scrub or fold until he could x-ray it again in 14 days. (Sounds like a vacation to me!) He will then examine it and make a final assessment. If it looks satisfactory to him, I will complete the healing for several more weeks in a splint. If not, pins will be needed. He felt like this method of treatment would not only give me the benefit of the doubt but spare me financially, a miracle I desperately needed. 100% function is the goal and he feels confident we will attain that.

After receiving a 20% discount, my total bill was only $360.00 vs. what could have been a hospital bill of possibly $10,000.00! I am delighted, to say the least and rejoice in what God has done. He never ceases to amaze me . . . showing up and then showing out. This is just 'part 1' of the testimony as He continues to heal and restore.

Thank you for all your prayers and sweet notes; keep praying because I still have a ways to go. Your thoughts and comments have truly been uplifting and appreciated. I think I have the best-est friends ever!!!

Cyberpsalmist

I AM FEARFULLY AND WONDERFULLY MADE!

2010-05-04T11:20:00.003-04:00

Last week, after they begged me all day, I took my kids ice skating. As you may already know, this is something I love to do but was grumbling about that particular day. Call it pure laziness, I just didn't feel like it.

After lacing up my skates and getting on the ice, I took a deep breath and remembered why I loved skating so much. The feeling of the blades as they carved my path began to mesmerize me as I rounded the rink. Revolution after revolution had a way of peeling off the stresses of the day/week. So many of my senses are engage on the ice... the wind in my hair, the sound of familiar rink-side music, along with the typical smells of popcorn and pizza coming from the concession stand. My sense of balance is always exercised, a healthy practice which brings long-tern benefits to all of us.

Growing up in the north, I had plenty of opportunity to hone my ice skating skills. Falling happened less and less as me and this frozen surface became more familiar with each other. Because I still have a love for this type of recreation, I am grateful for my years on the ice; it serves me well today.

Last week I had an accident that will briefly delay my figure-skating future for a few weeks: as I was exiting the ice, I under-estimated the wall at the doorway and slammed my fist into it, breaking my fifth metacarpal just below the knuckle. I noticed the severity of it when
I could not use my hand to remove my skates five minutes later. The next day it was confirmed by my doctor through an examination and x-rays that it was a broken bone.

After the shock passed and I was all alone with the Lord, I looked again at the x-rays and Psalm 139: 14 rose up in me declaring, "I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well." I not only knew those words for memory but needed to believe them. My hand, even in its broken state, was beautiful. God authored its amazing function and I needed to believe the Creator was capable of healing His creation.

I rest in His goodness as He completes the work He started, even if I messed it up. He is a good, good God and I choose to trust Him!

Cyberpsalmist

DARK, BUT LOVELY

2010-03-30T00:56:00.005-04:00

I stood there for what seemed like forever, looking up at the glowing wonder in the evening sky... silvery blue, with a aura of mystery that surrounded its clean-cut edges. The words came off my tongue instantly as if I had no control of them...

"God, how is it that you can take something with such an ugly, desolate surface and use it to reflect pure light and beauty?"

I have gazed upon this lunar body a thousand times, but never in this frame of mind; His majesty and glory had overtaken me and I was stunned by it. Who in heaven can hang a lantern like that, allowing a soft glow to cover a sometimes brutal existence, but God. Who else can light our darkened paths with His still, small whisper of illumination?

I stand in awe of Him and the magnificence He gave us in the heavens, a reminder to a weary people that we too, are dark, yet lovely.

"I am dark, but lovely, like the daughters of Jerusalem, like the tents of Kedar, like the curtains of Solomon. "

Song of Solomon 1:5

For your listening pleasure, please go this link and let the words of this song sink deep.

http://www.myspace.com/sarahedwardsihop

CyberPsalmist

THERE IS A RIVER

2010-03-08T16:44:00.004-05:00

The wooden bench which sat next to the edge of the mighty St. Johns River, was the perfect place to stop and rest along the Southbank. Hypnotized by the sound of the wake as it knocked against the bulkhead, I gazed out at the glistening waters before me. I am so blessed to be living near this beautifully wound waterway, spiraling through my coastal city.

There are nine major bridges that cross the river, all of them busily serving every extension of Jacksonville, moving people from one place to another. Under those bridges are houses, businesses, shipyards and restaurants; from fishing holes to athletic fields, the banks of the river welcome all to her shores. Traditions such as the 4th of July fireworks, annual lighting of the Christmas tree, as well as various boat parades and exhibits keep residents coming back year after year.

Like the divine grace of God, the river is smoothly flowing, bring all who rest beside her, sweet refreshing. Faithfully flowing, it neither overtakes us by monstrous waves nor meanders in a direction of its own choosing, but stays on course.

I sat and pondered the itinerary of the river. Uniquely flowing north instead of south ( just like that of the Nile,) its 310 miles of lazy liquid aquifer make it the longest river in Florida with a three mile expanse at the widest part. These brackish, cypress stained waters have been flowing long past the currents of time.

David speaks of yet a greater river . . . one whose waters bring pure delight to the body of Christ. Her tributaries are a life source to all who prefer the canals and creeks over the main stream and her main purpose is to refresh and renew. The Lord God inhabits the praises of His people, dwelling in the midst of those who worship His name.

If you have not paid a visit to the river recently, come and delight yourself at the waters edge. Allow the gleaming reflection of the Son to warm your soul and lift your spirit. Dip your feet and allow yourself to laugh with God again. He longs to enjoy you!

There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy dwelling places of the Lord. God is in the midst of her, she will not be moved: God will help her when morning dawns. Psalm 46: 4&5

Cyberpsalmist

HIS TIMING IS PEFECT

2010-03-03T12:51:00.008-05:00

The morning air briskly hit me in the face as I rounded the corner leaving the cul-de-sac. A sudden rush of wind nearly blew me off my 2-3 mile walking course. Tightening the drawstring of my hoodie to cover my exposed ears, I was reminded that spring had not yet sprung and we Floridians still have a few cold days left to deal with.

That's OK, because I know, beyond the shadow of a doubt, that I will soon have my fair share of hot days, wishing I could recall what a cool morning felt like. It won't be long until this transplanted Southerner is begging the weatherman to give her some kind of a contrast between one day and the next.

The heat index confronts me with the truth that the temperature is not what it seems, especially when the relative humidity gets factored in, a meteorological in-law I could easily do without. Fans move soggy air from one place to the next and the air-conditioners are set to positions such as "no mercy. Then once again, I will long for the days when I can sit next to my toasty buck stove, stoked full and blazing, complaining about the cold.

I've always loved the fact that seasons change and temperatures vary. Growing up in the North provided me with numerous ways to adapt to my ever-changing surroundings. From ice-skating to swimming, I managed to enjoy every quarterly equinox, grabbing the most from each. But I think the best part was knowing a new season was almost on it's way.

Life's seasons are similar. Just when I think I can't take any more, God has a wonderful way of modifying my environment. Sure, it's good to be content in whatever season we find ourselves in, but God is also preparing us for a change in scenery just the same.

He is never early and certainly never too late when it comes to making these necessary adjustments. In fact, I am always stunned by His impeccable timing. The funny thing is,

contrary to the seasons of the earth, I always forget this fact and begin to lose heart on the back side of the season I'm in.

Jeremiah 5:24 says, "Let us now fear the Lord our God, who gives rain in it's season, both the autumn rain and the spring rain, who keeps for us the appointed weeks of the harvest."

God Himself, has a grip on the seasons of my life. According to this truth, He brings me refreshing rains when I need them the most. He is not only in charge of my harvest, but keeps watch over it until it's mine to reap. His timing is perfect!

THE MYSTERY OF HIS LOVE

2010-02-22T11:01:00.005-05:00

Remember Nancy Drew? How about the Hardy Boys? For those readers who have never heard of these characters, they were fictional amateur teenage detectives whose self-proclaimed duty was to solve mysteries of every kind. Both of these series lined our bookshelves growing up.

In my opinion, Nancy's life, although contemporary to mine at that time, had an element of intrigue which I coveted. She always seemed to be at the right place, at the right time. From witnessing a crime to gathering the facts, sleuthing added adventure to her everyday, hum-drum life. She was a success at the end of every spine.

So, just what does it take to be a successful detective? Would you have the boldness to carry out the tasks at hand? Asking the right questions and then listening to the answers; looking for holes as well as inconsistencies. Assertiveness along with confidence that you "have the right to know" plays a huge part; understanding your authority and then walking in it. Scrutinizing every detail and then readying yourself for the long haul . . . not quitting until every resource is exhausted; staying focused in hot pursuit until the file reads "Case Closed."

I have a Private Investigator who is in hot pursuit of me. He leaves no stone unturned, no lead undeveloped; every intricacy having value in solving my case. I ran for so many years but His love found me. He chased me with holy boldness and sought after me with an authority like no other. I questioned such a motive but realize now, His determination is directly connected to the sustainable love He offers me. Surely this kind of love will endure to the end.

This, to me, is a mystery . . . that Jesus knows my frame and my frailty; yet He still loves!

Cyberpsalmist- Chrissy Larson

MY HEART YEARNS FOR MORE

2010-02-12T14:54:00.013-05:00

Who taught you how to love or did it come naturally? Sometimes I wish there was a class I could attend or better yet, send someone else to, that would teach me/them how to love better. Wouldn't it be great if just like traffic school, there existed a required course for emotional offenders arrested for breaking the laws of the heart?

From my earliest recollections, I was encouraged to show love and forgive wrongs; my siblings gave me plenty of opportunities. As I became more social, deep friendships taught me a lot about being true, trust, and the risks associated with handing my heart over to others.

I didn't take much time for me to hand my heart over to a boy that sat near me in middle school. I was convinced his feelings were mutual and that one day, he would marry me, only to find out he never shared my fantasy.

Almost all of my high school years were spent living out someone else's fantasy . . . I dated one guy who tied up every bit of my wonder years. Then one day, I woke up and said I had enough, but it was too late to recapture what was now in my rear view mirror.

Ahh, the lessons taught from that little piece of reflective 3X8 piece of glass! If I don't learn from the mistakes of my past, then those segments of life have wasted potential. Surely I could somehow use this dung pile for fertilizer.

But I serve a God who knows me inside and out and holds my destiny in the palm of His hand. His purposes for me are true and I was created to give Him glory. He specializes in turning my mourning into dancing; turning my sorrow into joy; giving me beauty for ashes. He gives me His praise for my pain. How can I deny such a love?

Oh, to have someone who knows you this way - what a gift! It makes my feet look for a dance floor; urges me to welcome the dawn of a new day; opens my nostrils to fragrances

I've never known and causes my weary heart to sing again.

I've learned so much from this academy and fear I am a life-long student. I have relinquished a license to love and be loved my way, only to attempt mastering the subject on His terms. Real love is awakened and now my heart yearns for more!

Cyberpsalmist

It's Huge - I'm Back!

2010-02-07T02:50:00.010-05:00

What kind of a writer stays away from her blog for over six months? A pretty shabby one for sure. Geez - what a slacker! Will you forgive me for not penning all of my thoughts, dreams and aspirations?

So much has transpired since I last pecked away in this cyber diary . . . but I have decided to move forward instead of hash over the past. All I can say is life is good and Jesus is better. And rather than belabor the many excuses I could interject at this point, I will simply say, "I'm back!"

To all my readers, fans, admirers, lurkers and former students, I just want to say thank you for visiting while I was away. You showed your faithfulness even though I never even showed up. Wow! You are amazing!!!

So with gratefulness in my heart and repentance in my spirit, I press on to the exclamation "mark of the high calling in Christ Jesus." My desire, as my title states, is to reflect, knowing that objects of all sorts really do appear larger than they are if viewed through a rear view mirror.

Is that a bad thing? On the contrary! I firmly believe that every day I am allowed to live and breath is significant, nothing happens by chance, and I want to die doing something I love. These are objects I have had the privilege to reflect on and they appear huge to me. Life is too short to exist without passion.

This has always been a place for not only me to express myself, but you as well. I appreciate any and all of you comments more than you know.

These are my thoughts . . . a penny for yours.

Chrissy/Cyber Psalmist

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.

SWEET DREAMS by Nathan James

2008-11-15T19:47:00.007-05:00

I'd like to think of myself as one who has many vivid and colorful dreams, not to mention, very random and nonsensical ones as well. What our minds tend to muster up in the late hours of the night can be some of the most ridiculous and crazy scenarios imaginable.

Of course, people have different mindsets, ideas, points of view, and other related mental articles, which give each person different types of dreams; whether it be the people involved in the dream, the setting, atmosphere or appearance. I’ve found some of mine to be very colorful and lustrous (even though I hear that we dream in black and white, I will continuously argue that this statement is fiction.)

Dreaming doesn’t usually occur in the deeper stages of sleep, but rather in the first few stages. We do our dreaming generally in the state of lighter sleeping. Also, if you didn’t already know, it only takes about 10% of your brain to create a dream for nighty-night time.

But aside from all of those monotonous facts, I’d like to hear some of your sweet dreams. Whether they are embarrassing, silly, nightmarish, realistic, or story-like, please share them. I might share a few of mine too, in response to yours. So, what kind of dreams do YOU have?

THE PERFECT MEAL

2008-11-09T22:34:00.010-05:00

It's getting closer. The anticipation is building. Soon, the smell of turkey roasting in the oven, along with dressing and pies, will fill millions of homes all over the United States.

As far back as I can remember, I woke up with these same distinctive aromas wafting past my nose, as well as the sound of Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade coming from the family room TV. No one was necessarily watching it, but it was on all the same. Sleeping late meant no school, and if we were lucky, it would snow hard enough over the weekend to justify the school board calling for a snow day, giving us a few extra days off.

One of my favorite things to do was look through the Sears Christmas Wish Book and circle everything on my list. This would not be complete without holiday music in the background. Dad had a reel-to reel tape deck in which he had recorded Christmas songs from the radio. These same tapes were played year after year and each time, the familiar renditions would add another layer of memories. If we begged Dad long enough, he might even get the decorations out of the garage. When the ornaments were unpacked, I would gaze at my favorites, as if I were looking at them for the very first time.

Mom always planned to eat around 2:00 Pm, but Tom Turkey didn't make his golden debut until he was ready. The table was set by my sisters and I, everything in its place. Often times, I was given the job of making place cards . . . home made, of course. As the family grew larger and larger, this task took longer and longer. On occasion, we had a special guest join us for dinner . . . someone who needed a home for the holiday.

Then came the long-awaited two words, "Dinner's ready!" Just when we thought it was time to eat, my parents would gather us in a circle and while holding hands, we would take a minute to go around, one at a time, telling what we were thankful for. Although my stomach was empty, my heart was full of the many blessings God gave us as a family. I was overflowing with gratitude.

But that wasn't all that overflowed. When the prayer was over, the abundance of blessings on the table overflowed my plate. Here is what my plate looked like: a few slices of Mom's perfect turkey next to her AMAZING giblet stuffing (a double portion at least,) then corn, green bean casserole, home made mashed potato's and gravy, along with two cranberry sauces and possibly a roll. Since my son married, the North finally met the South and we now have the addition of Sweet Potato Casserole, courtesy of my daughter-in-law, Angela.

All's well that ends well and I am proud to say that I am the official pie maker in this family. I always bake at least four pies: Dutch Apple, Chocolate Pecan, Pumpkin and French Silk Chocolate Pie. (Don't forget the whipped Cream.)

After the last dish is washed, the women folk take their traditional walk in the neighborhood to ease the pain of overeating or maybe just get out of the kitchen. Yet, there is one last important ingredient left to mention.

When I was a child, we went as a family to view the Christmas window display at a popular department store in the town where I grew up. To carry on this tradition, we now go to Kuhn Flowers on Thanksgiving night, to see their widows. Although someone in my family always feels the need to express disapproval to this long standing ritual, they graciously appease me by honoring my request.

As the years go by, family dynamics have shifted and changed. This year, a nucleus of us will be trying Thanksgiving around the campfire. I am looking forward to creative variations of the traditions I hold so dear, adding another layer of memories. But I have learned something about this perfect meal . . . it's not where you are or what you put on your plate, its who you are with and what you have in your heart that counts.

What's your idea of the perfect meal?

THAT'S NOT THE WAY IT WAS IN MY DAY!

2008-11-01T18:37:00.005-04:00

I heard this growing up and continue to hear it today.

I am very blessed to have my parents still living. My father was born in 1923 and my mother in 1930. When I look at those numbers, my brain freezes. What was it like to live back then? The only thing this generation can wrap it's mind around is the here and the now.

Listening to my parents speak of a simpler life makes me long for more innocent days of old. When my mother craved peaches, she didn't go to the grocery store; she went down to the cellar and grabbed a quart-size Mason jar which her mother canned. Her mothers washing machine was a wringer washer and all the laundry was dried outside on clothes lines. Telephone numbers were shared by neighbors who could interrupt your call at any time.

My dad didn't wear a back pack to school but carried his books in a stack, tied together with string or an old shoelace. When my dad's generation needed money, they got on a bike and delivered the daily paper. Because there was no television or video games, kids actually gathered on safe streets to play tag, capture the stick, marbles or jacks. If Dad could get enough friends together, they would play a neighborhood game of ball that lasted until dusk. Then the family would gather around the radio for evening entertainment.

Don't think that a simpler life was an easier one. The Great Depression took it's toll and many fathers lost their jobs, filing into breadlines to keep their families from starving. If you managed to have a job, you worked hard to keep it. Money was scarce and the economy suffered a very devastating blow. Just as our nation was recovering from the crash, WWII became the focus.

My folks survived the Depression as well as the war and still live to tell about days such as these. They are now enjoying so many modern conveniences that help make their lives easier. On occasion, my dad will even say, "If my mother could see this, she would roll over in her grave!"

But from then to now, everything is different; nothing is the same. We get more done in a minute than they could have gotten done in several hours or even days. One thing that frustrates my parents is the speed at which things change. Just when my mom learned how to navigate her present operating system, Windows came out with a new one. My dad loves his iPod but hasn't figured out how to update his play list. Replacing an old cell phone with a newer version is completely mind-boggling. They feel as though they can't keep up. Technology is in absolute hyperspace! While my brain is accustomed to processing at the speed of light; they are dizzy from breathing my fumes.

Have you ever stopped to consider what our existence will look like in 25 years? Will we be able to keep up with the information age? Life as we know it is going to be completely different. When someone says, "That's not the way it was in my day," they'll actually be referring to yesterday!

Speculate, for a minute, how things might change from this generation to the next.

Let me hear your thoughts.

(The story you are about to read is 100 % fictional)

2008-10-28T10:25:00.006-04:00

Just the other day, I needed to sign some important documents. Because of the nature of my business, signing them in person was a requirement. The office happened to be on the 18th floor of the Modis Building in the downtown area.

I noticed a commotion as I approached the elevators but somehow in all the confusion in the lobby, I wound up in the same elevator as presidential candidate Senator John McCain. There I was, face to face with him. Before I knew it, the doors were closing and secret service came pouncing towards us like a bunch of cats chasing catnip.

I must have been a sight, gawking at him with my jaw touching my chest. He broke the ice by shaking my hand and politely introducing himself. I gasped, knowing exactly who he was. When I told him my name, he smiled and said it was a pleasure to share the ride with me. He further expressed how the security slip-up might serve as a much needed break from the maddening crowds he was so accustomed to.

I nervously stared at the numeric display ascending from one floor to the next, when all of the sudden, the elevator gently came to a stop. We both looked at each other in surprise. I hesitatingly remarked, "Maybe your break will be a bit longer than you expected."

After security assured him via his ever-ringing cell phone we would be fine and the elevator would be repaired momentarily, he asked if sitting on the floor would make me feel uncomfortable. I responded by joining him. I debated in my mind for what seemed like forever, whether or not I should bring up the many issues I was concerned about. As soon I said, "Would you mind if I . . .” he interrupted and replied, "No, go ahead."

The rest is a blur. We must have sat there for a good thirty minutes when the elevator jerked and began its rise back to the top. As my floor approached, I quickly expressed my appreciation for the one-on-one moments we shared. Waving goodbye, I stepped out on to the 18th floor. The doors closed behind giving the Senator two and a half more minutes of solitude as he rode to the building's private top floor.

What did we talk about? That is for me to forever hide in my heart. But I learned so much about him in those few minutes.

Here's my opinion: John McCain is truly a hero. On the subject of negative campaigning, he could sling plenty of mud at his opponent but chooses not to at this time. Maybe what he faced as a POW explains his reaction to keep quiet in the face of persecution and ridicule. I know God honors this no matter who wins this race.

I feel deep concern for where this country is headed in light of the "change" that is promised by the other camp. Socialism is not only knocking at our front doors, it believes it can come in and put its feet on our furniture. Adopting this type of thinking, just because we as a nation are tired of taking care of ourselves, is not worth the consequences.

Voting correctly is one of the most powerful rights we physical possess, but praying fervently moves the heart of the Father. We need to ask God for mercy as a nation and cry out to Him to save us in our time of need. Praying is not the "least we can do," it is definitely the MOST we can do!

IMAGINE YOU GOT STUCK IN AN ELEVATOR WITH ONE OF THE TWO PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES. WHO WAS IT AND WHAT IS YOUR OPINION?

HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT HOMEWORK?

2008-10-19T21:14:00.006-04:00

Some of my readers have known me for as long as I have been on this earth, maybe even changed my diapers.

But some of you are my newest friends.

The beauty of the blog is that we have found interesting things out about each other in a modern, techno kind of way.

Did you know I am a songwriter? I have several recordings as well, but that's another subject.

My goal this week is to bring the lyricist out in you and ask you to pen a song about your feelings for, of all things, homework. For help with rhyming words, check out www.rhymezone.com. If you need inspiration, sit outside one night this week under the harvest moon. Get out your guitar or harmonica for musical support and opine away. Who knows, the neighborhood hound dogs may even join in!

Here goes . . .

(Folksy, country flavor)

Ode to the Essay
by Chrissy Larson

Verse 1:
It was thirty two years ago I did my time,
In a High School that's so far away;
There was Algebra, Spanish and Chemistry too;
English Comp and the five part ess-ay.

Verse 2:
Now I needed my credits to walk on that stage,
Hear my name, throw my cap to the sky;
But with essays to write and exams yet to pass,
I couldn't just turn a blind eye.

verse 3:
Through many long weekends and more sleepless nights,
Than I really do care to admit;
I finally tackled what I had feared most,
My efforts paid off, every bit.

Verse 4:
I had intros, conclusions, three mains and a thesis,
The only thing left was my clincher;
Oh no . . . not a brain freeze! I'm 'bout out of time -
I'm ready to end this adventure!

Verse 5:
I finally finished those essays and more,
I "walked" and I did not look back;
But who would have guessed that I needed those skills,
To coach you and keep you on track.

Chorus:
I'm so glad it's your essay, not mine;
Watching movies is really just fine.
To Staples again,
I need a red pen;
I'm so glad it's your essay, not mine
(twice through because it's just that good)

Cyber Psalmist
P.s. I will accept nothing less than a poem!

What Do Clairol and State Farm Have in Common?

2008-10-11T21:50:00.010-04:00

THEY BOTH HAVE ME COVERED!

Anyone learning to drive can give a new meaning to the word "stress." From rules to road signs, it's not exactly what you bargain for.

I remember taking on the responsibility of getting behind the wheel. Drivers Ed was by far the favorite class amongst teenagers. In my day, the simulator lab was the closest thing we had to playing video games. The teacher set us up behind a monitor and left us alone until our designated time was up.

But the most fun included three teenagers plus an instructor safety-belted into the seats of a Student Driver Vehicle. We thought we were so smart driving around a school parking lot full of cones. When it was our turn to get street-smart, everyone in town shared a clear and present danger. The Drivers Ed vehicles were marked from front to back with flashing lights and signs; black and yellow caution stripes let the world know we were on the road. It wasn't as cool as I thought it would be. I felt like George McFly with a "Kick Me" sign on my back!

I survived and eventually got my drivers license. It was a proud moment. But if you ask my mom about her side of the story, she would tell it a bit differently. I had never seen facial expressions like that before (or since.) Her right foot was constantly riding an artificial break on the passenger side and she looked like a deer caught in the headlights.

After teaching two of my own children how to drive, I can honestly say I know how she felt. Back then, there weren't near as many distractions for the student driver . . . cell phones, text messages, GPS's, and siblings, none of which were allowed in any of my learner's vehicle.

I, just like my mother, lived through it. Two of my children are now road savvy; my other two children are being peacefully chauffeured from here to there. This experience has contributed to the number of grey hairs on my head, but it's nothing Clairol won't cover.

How about you? Do you have an interesting story to tell or comment to make on this subject? Should there be a few rules added to the handbook for the parents? I'll give you a penny for your thoughts.

Question of the Week

2008-10-01T14:23:00.010-04:00

DO HARD THINGS

As indicated by a few of the responses to last week's blog, some teens lack a high degree of confidence in themselves and their peers. That's disturbing. Twin brothers Alex and Brett Harris, 19-year-old homeschool graduates, have co-authored a book, Do Hard Things, subtitled A Teenage Rebellion Against Low Expectations. This is a terrific read for parents and teens alike. I have neither the time nor space to do a book review, but their words give us hope for this defeatest attitude.

One notable thing these young men point out is that we have come to believe in the myth of adolescence. The term teenager wasn't coined until 1941. In earlier times, a person went from childhood to young adulthood. Circumstances demanded that children take on adult responsibilities as soon as they were out of the childish phase. Why is it that society now thinks of adolescents as mentally deficient, hormone-driven, unmotivated, undisciplined goalless stumps afraid to approach life with purpose and intention?

Do Hard Things issues the challenge to teenagers to do hard things, to break out of the mold and start a "rebelution," to rebel against the self-fulfilling prophecy of low expectations. The twins give an example of a young lady, a county campaign coordinator in a statewide political campaign effort in which the Harris brothers were also involved, yet at the state's capitol. She did an incredible job. They had briefly met her and her older sister at the campaign kickoff meeting, so when they heard about the tremendous job she had done, they mistakenly thought she was her 24-year-old sister. They were shocked when they discovered the "woman" doing all that work was only 17. They were also 17 at the time, yet even they had their own preconceived notions about the capabilities of their peers. They also later found out that the girl was deathly afraid of talking on the phone, yet her campaigning position had required her to do just that. That was her hard thing, but she refused to let her own struggles or what others believed about her to define her success.

Each person has his or her own hard thing, or multiple hard things. You first might have to conquer a relatively small hard thing before you go on to conquer a major hard thing. Believe it or not, adults have hard things too. One of my hard things is letting my children do hard things! I guess I am what you would call an enabler. I began working on that hard thing this year by joining the co-op. How can you challenge yourself? What hard thing(s) can you work on?

Mrs. Brooks

The Blessing of Time

2008-10-01T05:37:00.013-04:00

For all the homeschool Mom's and Dad's reading along every week, I wanted to share a time-saving blessing I came across. All of you know the value of this precious commodity we call time. A few years ago, I bumped into a company that has blessed my family.

If you did not already know, I am a mother of four children. Although I have graduated my oldest (married with his first child on the way,) as well as our second child, who’s now in Kansas City, Missouri, attending a missions-based internship, our other two children are still being schooled at home. My youngest is in the 4^th grade and the other sibling is in the 6^th. With over 16 years of homeschooling behind me, I take a deep breath and gear up for the next nine more years. I have been a part of a co-op for all the years I have been teaching, which meets one day a week.

As you can see from my years of experience, I am quite familiar with the many types of curriculum out there. I am amazed every year at the new products being offered to us and delighted there is such a variety of things available. Whether you enjoy hands-on or workbooks, it’s all there. I think I have a little of almost everything on my bookshelf or have tried most of it. One thing I have learned over the years… what works for one may not work for another so you should always use a teaching style that suits your individual child.

In my quest to save time, money and cut down on lesson plans, I began searching for ways my kids could study some of their core subjects with a little independence. I wanted to have more time for hands-on, exploration and field trips. I was introduced to a program that was free to those who qualified and we were part of their pilot program. We were given all the books, readers, workbooks, teacher’s manuals, and even a computer to use. The program was bright, colorful and very interesting. The problem came in completing the work as there was so much that had to be accomplished. By the end of the day, we were exhausted. There was never any time leftover to do the really fun stuff. When my youngest was old enough to start school, they “grandfathered” her in to the program and I attempted to teach two this way. I don’t know what I was thinking. But hey, it was free so I thought I would give it another try. That year was a failure in some senses, but a victory in others. We learned how we didn’t want to homeschool and parted ways graciously, shipping all of the colorful readers and computer back.

Because I still wanted my kids to have a few independent classes, I began to explore other avenues. We tried a few subjects from a company that helped “pace” us along, but were very boring. We then tried another popular company which offered both a pack of consumable workbooks, as well as a computer-type “schoolhouse” for many of their subjects. I purchased a few subjects on CD and some workbooks packs for each child. Again, I was disappointed.

I knew there had to be something out there that was fun and engaging, yet academically challenging. I still wanted to foster independence so I began a search on the internet. I typed in a few keywords and found Time4Learning. The demo showed me exactly what I wanted to know and all of us felt we found just what we were looking for.

There are many ways to use Time4Learning. It really depends if you are using other texts or workbooks alongside T4L. When we first started the program, we needed to do a lot of catching up and the kids spent more time in specific areas than they do now. Because we are a part of a co-op that offers History & Science, I let the kids explore these two subject areas as a part of their “playground” time, without a time limit. Also, I use a few things at home that have been favorites of mine, both to teach and for them to learn from. I have my own spelling program as well as a grammar book that we use. I also use a math program along side T4L that is more visual in concept (“build and see”). I have found that this never conflicts with what they are learning, but only enhances the T4L program. I feel that not only does T4L fill in possible learning gaps, it gives me the confidence to know that no matter what area we slow down and concentrating on, we will always have a solid “core subject” base.

How I use Time4Learning:

Since we are at a co-op one day a week, we only do T4L Monday through Thursday. We prefer to get this done in the morning and save the afternoon for other subjects and activities. This gives me time to do a few chores and get ready for our learning time in the afternoon. Each child has a computer and can work independently. I have assigned them a specific amount of time they must spend in a subject area per day. The older the child is, the longer the session. For example:

6^th Grader- Daily Schedule (Monday –Thursday)

Time spent in each subject area on a daily basis:

Math – 30 minutes

Language Arts – 30 minutes

Language Extensions –30 minutes

Total learning time – 1 ½ hours

20 minutes of playtime are allowed between each subject.

4^th Grader- Daily Schedule (Monday –Thursday)

Time spent in each subject area on a daily basis:

Math – 20 minutes

Language Arts – 20 minutes

Language Extensions –20 minutes

Total learning time – 1 hour

20 minutes of playtime are allowed between each subject.

*Note – on occasion, one of my kids will ask to spend their entire T4L session in one subject area, such as Math. I will let them do that one day if they promise me to “make it up” in the other subjects the other days of the week. One way to can accomplish this would be to do all Language Arts the following day and all Language Extensions the day after that. The last day of the week would go back to a regular schedule.

This schedule can be flexed to suit your needs. Keep an open mind and heart about what you are doing. Your kids have bad days just like you so apply grace when needed. The beauty of Time4Learning is the fact that they will have their academic bases covered, allowing us the liberty to focus on different learning bents our children have, while not sacrificing the basics.

We are in our 3^rd year of using Time4Learning and all love it. Its one thing to hear how parents like and use Time4Learning but it’s another thing to know that the kids love it as well. Thank you, Time4Learning!

IMAGINE WHAT LIFE WOULD BE LIKE IF TEENS RULED THE WORLD!

2008-09-28T21:13:00.005-04:00

Brainstorm a list of instructions and give at least three rules teens would make for adults.

I've grown up a little bit but realize I still have a long way to go. Until I arrive, I have some advice to pass along to all the adults reading this.

#1. Proverbs warns parents not to provoke their kids to anger. Man, that is such good advice because parents come unglued, especially when they are stressed out. You can almost watch their blood boil and then
bang . . . they implode! My rule? Parents are required to say they are sorry too. I feel so much more respect for them when they ask me to forgive them.

#2. Teens should practice making plenty of adult decisions before leaving home. That way when we fail or screw something up, our parents can bail us out. It's more convenient messing up under our parents authority than out on our own.

#3. Teens should have maid service, especially for their rooms. All laundry should be done by this domestic helper, as well as keep personal items organized. Also, bedrooms should have a continually stocked mini-fridge, full of favorites.

As far as instructions, the best ones are found in the Bible concerning raising teens. I don't think parents give them enough credit.

Cyber Psalmist

What ONE Embarrassing Little Truth Can You Tell About Yourself?

2008-09-20T18:36:00.007-04:00

"But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part,

which will not be taken away from her." Luke 10:22

It's almost hard to recall but there once was a time in my life when I was able to watch bits and pieces of morning television shows . At 9:00 Am, I had coffee with Regis and Kathy Lee. They jested and jeered about their lives and let me guess, along with the rest of America, the answer to the daily trivia question. Then at 10:00 Am, Martha Stewart showed me how to grow my own herbs, bake my own bread and weave a basket to serve it in. Everything was easy and perfect in her TV world and I too, dreamed of Living just like Martha. It appeared to come so natural for her, except for one thing. . . an entire staff of employees did the work behind the scenes. The image she portrayed was just a facade.

It reminds me of those old western towns seen on a film set. Many of the buildings are only facades, which are far cheaper than actual buildings. If we could go behind the scenes, we would be surprised by the fact that they are merely held up with supports. Such is the case in Martha's world.

Jesus used the story of Mary and Martha to prove a similar point. Martha appeared to have it together on the outside, but in her heart, she missed the mark. Martha felt like her purpose was to busy herself with household duties. One of her biggest downfalls was expecting everyone else to be as passionate about housework as she was. She began to despise Mary for her lack of concern but not even Jesus felt Martha's tasks were as important as Mary's.

I am truly a Mary stuck in Martha's world. I would much rather worship than wash the dishes; I prefer to fast than to feast; I'd rather press in and hear from the Lord than press shirts and have starched creases. The worship webstream runs more in my house than the carpet steam cleaner. The biggest reason I get on my knees is NOT to wax my floors. Existing in this realm requires I loose some of my Martha dignity.

You see, I love to do those things and I was trained by the best (my mother) to do them well. But I can't quite get myself to prioritize any differently. I get up early, yet stay up late. My accomplishments? They add up to a few new songs written for an audience of One; words of encouragement penned for one that needed His touch; or precious time spent with my kids who will one day be gone from my immediate reach.

What is my embarrasing truth? My house is pretty much a wreck. But one thing is needed, and hopefully I have chosen the good part.

Cyber Psalmist

Question of the Week

2008-09-13T01:35:00.004-04:00

If you were given a million dollars,
what would you do with it?
- Kyle O.

Funny you should ask, Kyle, because I mentioned this to the Lord just the other day.

Recently, I went to an out-of-town wedding and was able to renew friendships with nieces and nephews that I had not seen in a few years. One of my nephews is struggling with circumstances in his life that categorize his present condition as "dysfunctional."

As I considered my position as his Aunt, I knew my family, along with the Lord's help, was capable of making a difference in his life. Next summer, we plan on arranging for him to spend a bit of his summer with us.

Then it hit me... wouldn't it be cool if I could personally take my nephew, along with my son (who is close in age) on a missions trip? As quick as the idea came up, I let it go, due to my constant lack of funding. With numerous missions trips behind me, I knew the routine... fundraisers, passport applications, medical exams, not to mention the physical and spiritual preparation. All of this was worth the effort, yielding a greater spiritual return than I could ever fathom. But my biggest hurtle would no doubt be finances.

So, the last thing I whispered in God's ear only a few days ago regarding this far-fetched idea was, "If someone gave me a million dollars, I know just what I would do with it."

I'll leave it right there and remind you as well as myself, "with God, all things are possible," even a million dollars. (Matt. 19:26)

Cyber Psalmist

Question of the Week

2008-09-05T16:39:00.011-04:00

Describe three teeny-tiny "downers" that annoy you.

Downers are very personal. They are the little aggravations of life, not the big ones. Losing your wallet or getting in an accident of some sort is not a teeny-tiny downer. A teeny-tiny downer is that little ball of hand lotion that forms at the spout of a bottle of hand lotion and comes out in a hard blob when you squirt it into your hands.

I know I buy the right size flip-flops because they fit my feet just perfectly. But somehow, people who are walking behind me manage to step on the heel-portion of my sandal and trip me up. This happens far too often for words. Although it's teeny, it truly aggravates me.

Another downer is when they forget to give you straws or plastic ware in the drive-thru. Then what? You almost have to drive around again, get in the long line you just exited, and ask for the missing items. This may sound tiny to you, but to me, it's huge.

Ok, this one IS personal. I have a cabinet under my sink, right next to my toilet. I keep cleaning supplies in it because the storage space is nice and tall--great for spray bottles and bulk items. The other cabinet in my bathroom is wider and accommodates things like towels and washcloths that can be folded to custom fit that space. I also keep the toilet paper there; it's the only storage space left for this precious commodity. If ever the occupant runs out of TP while the job is in progress, they have to get up and walk over to the cabinet to get more paper and... well, let's just say... finish. This situation has caught me in it's trap a time or two and I guess I need to find a more convenient place to hide a few rolls. Compared to running out completely, this is teeny-tiny.

In the scope of things that get you down, there are definitely more aggravating situations to face. How about you?

Cyber Psalmist

2008-08-28T01:52:00.006-04:00

If you could wake up one morning as someone else, who would it be and what would you do?

Bethany Dillon - Waking Up - 2007

Waking up one morning, only to find I was someone else would be scary, especially if I couldn't pick who I was going to change places with (assuming that was the scenario.) But since I get to pick, here goes:

I think I'd like to be Misty Edwards for one day, just to see what it was like to walk and sing under such an incredible anointing. I feel certain she spends tons of time in prayer, as well as time composing new material and just singing before the Lord; something I don't have much time alloted for these days. A band practice with the musicians she plays with would be very cool and I think I would talk her engineers into letting me have studio time. Then I'd hook up with some of her friends at the coffee shop and ask those "heavy" questions I have been contemplating; people like Allen Hood, Mike Bickle, and Corey Russell. I wouldn't wonder if they wanted to hang out with me... after all, I'm Misty.

I probably would not eat very much because Misty fasts all the time. I would look forward to a two-hour set of worship with my team in the Prayer Room and you... would be able to watch me on the web-stream. But I wouldn't care about that... because I'm Misty.

I would not be satisfied with just 24 hours. I would be anxious for another day to spend at the feet of Jesus. Sleep would be light and the dawn would remind me of what this is all leading to...

because I was Misty.

Cyber Psalmist

Question of the Week

2008-08-22T11:21:00.032-04:00

If you could design a billboard,

what would it say?

You are a voice to a generation.

Billboards are an amazing advertising tool. Because we have a business of our own, I have checked into billboard advertising as well as considered various locations around the city that would be beneficial to us. Location is everything. It must be catchy or else colorful enough to capture the readers attention. We read them at stop lights or glance at them as we fly down the expressway. Some are humorous and others annoy us. I've even seen a billboard with a proposal on it. I'm not sure I find that romantic. Everywhere you go (unless there are restrictions) you see billboards.

Have you ever thought of your life as a billboard? At least for the moment. How I act and who I am speaks volumes about me. My "being" is just as important as my "doing."

I am a voice to a generation and I do have something to say. I've learned from those before me and want to make a difference for those behind. My heart cries out to expose what's real because real reality has somehow fallen through the cracks.

So, what could I possibly say to a generation viewing my billboard?

Jesus wants to know
if you'll play
"Hide & Seek?"

Guess what-- you're it!

Seek the LORD
while He may be found,
Call upon Him
while He is near.
Isaiah 55:6

Cyber Psalmist

Question of the Week

2008-08-13T14:57:00.004-04:00

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what is the one item (besides your Bible) you would most want to have with you? Explain your answer.

Ok, I know what some of you are thinking and there is no right or wrong answer. Anything goes on this one so don't get offended if I didn't choose you as my answer. (That was aimed at my mother, who I know reads this.)
I would most want my pillow. I know that sounds bizarre but I love my pillow.

I have a great pillow right now and I would certainly want this particular one with me on my island, but any pillow would do, under those circumstances.

When I was a very young girl, I had a latex foam pillow that I really loved. I loved it so much, I carried it into my marriage with me 30 years ago. I used it for a good while, even though it did not match my husbands pillow on the other side of the bed. That would bother anal retentives, but it never bothered me.

One evening, I knew it would be my last night sleeping with it. I unzipped the protective cotton cover and saw that the majority of the contents had turned into a pile of yellow crumbs which resembled crushed Captain Crunch cereal near the bottom.

The next day my search began for the perfect replacement. After years of trying, I had finally found one that felt right. It's one of those memory foam pillows that is contoured for your head. It will never be the same as my old pillow, but I have had many a good nights rest with it.

That is why I chose my pillow. I figured a good nights rest would be pretty high on the priority list while stranded. With all those strange sounds in the night, my pillow would be a comfort - something I could hug if I was scared.

I could even draw a face on it and talk to it when I got lonely.

Not to mention, much softer that a rock to sit on.

As I pondered further, I thought of a dozen other things I could use my pillow for.

That's my choice for now. Who knows, it might change after this gets posted. I might want my iPod instead.

Question of the Week

2008-08-04T11:33:00.009-04:00

What happened on the best day of your summer vacation?

On the best day of my summer vacation, I woke up and there were no kids in my house.

My oldest son has been married over three years now but sometimes when I go into his old room, I still imagine he is in there (sleeping). I used to sit down on his bed and annoy him by slurping coffee in his ear until he woke up.

My first daughter is now at IHOP Kansas City for an internship but her room is still high voltage. Even though she is not around to order my day and eat sushi with me, her sister, who still occupies the room, is. The evidence is unfolding as to who was the cause of the continuous mess in the room.

Both girls have vacated the premises... one in KC, the other is at camp for one solid week.

That leaves the youngest son home (although I tried my best to talk him into going to camp, knowing secretly, I’d have one week to myself. But no chance. He was looking for some solitude as well but never admitted it.

Until -- the phone call came! He was invited to spend a couple of nights at a friends and I was looking at getting a little over 48 hours to myself. I cheerfully released him to his friends house and as I was walking up my front steps, let out a “yea-high” that I’m sure my neighbors heard.

So you might wonder what I did with my 48 hrs? I meticulously scrubbed the guest bathroom. Not even the ants liked the bleachy smell. It sparkled so much that I needed sunglasses. After I was through, I walked past it on purpose, just to get extra glimpses of my hard efforts.

Shortly after that, I began packing my bags for a well-earned trip to Savannah, which included a self-guided walking tour of the river front and some historical stops as well as a reservation at “Lady & Sons” restaurant with new friends that God has recently put in my life.

The fellowship was fantastic, the food was fabulous, the walking was wonderful, and the shopping was just too short.

When I returned home, the first thing I wanted to do was see my kids (hubby too.) It's true, I missed them the whole time. But I sure did have some guilt-free fun while they were gone!

Walk, America!

2008-07-17T14:04:00.009-04:00

I filled my car up with gas today. The little window asked me if I wanted a copy of the receipt. It took me a second to decide as I am an avid scrapbook junkie and was thinking about saving it as a memento. One day in the future, I'll either laugh or cry at what prices USED to be. Can you imagine it getting any worse? It could.

Looking back at some old photos the other day, I saw a picture of an old-fashioned gas pump with a hard-working but happy gentleman next to it. True, he "worked hard for the money" honey, but the photo revealed the price for liquid gold back then and it was only a whopping 27 cents per gallon! I wish I had a copy of that receipt.

My daughter asked me what was wrong when I walked in the door today and I showed her my receipt for $93.14 after I had filled up my fuel efficient mini-van. That might last a week. Only then was she able to justify the mood I was in.

I announced we were going to be taking more walks from now on. If you think about it, I bet you could think of at least two places to walk instead of taking the car. My list includes

Blockbuster, CVS, the bank, and even my doctors office. Granted, I will not always be walking, but when I can, I WILL. It's my way of

getting back at somebody for this madness. (I'm not really sure who's to blame or where to aim my anger.) Besides, who couldn't

use the exercise.

SO, GET OUT OF YOUR CARS AND WALK, AMERICA!

Maybe I'll start a new movement.

What do you think?

Do the Math

2008-07-12T18:51:00.008-04:00

A few nights ago, my husband woke up around 3:00 Am for no apparent reason. He lay there awhile wondering what he should do next. I've been there myself and it feels as though someone's decided to set off an imaginary alarm clock in my head. I toss a bit, then turn, trying not to disturb anyone. After facing my sleepless denial, I am likely to get up and clean or even work on a project.

I asked my husband what he did during his awake time. He said his mind started going down a list all the near-misses in his life; the really stupid decisions he made as well as risks he had taken, imagining what should have happened. When we're young, consequences don't seem as up-close and personal as they are when maturity knocks on our door. He could not understand his survival rate in comparison to the situations that nearly took his life, nor the reason for the grace that came his way. After reviewing his extensive list, he said he fell peacefully asleep.

I've heard drinking warm milk or cocoa helps insomnia, but then so does a dose of NyQuil PM. One of my favorite movies, "White Christmas," has a scene in which Bing Crosby and Rosemary Clooney discover they both have trouble sleeping. Bing suggests a glass of buttermilk along with a liverwurst sandwich. That sounds to me like trouble, not a treatment. Then they segue into what I consider to be one of the most beautiful songs in the movie. The lyrics go like this:

Count You Blessings
Irving Berlin
(from the 1954 movie "White Christmas")

When I'm worried and I can't sleep
I count my blessings instead of sheep
And I fall asleep counting my blessings
When my bankroll is getting small
I think of when I had none at all
And I fall asleep counting my blessings

If you think of all the times you were spared, about every close call, and each near-miss, you'll agree, you shouldn't be reading this blog. But God has decided your divine purpose is greater than what you've survived by the skin of your teeth. Psalm 89:13 says, "You (Lord) have a mighty arm; Strong is Your hand, and high is Your right hand."

When you count your blessings and do the math; you'll realize you are exponentially blessed!

I Hate Sticky!

2008-07-10T17:24:00.008-04:00

I am convinced that sticky is a curse from the devil. They say hell will be hot but I bet it will be sticky too. It follows you everywhere; if you touch anything, it transfers, leaving a residue to haunt you. Big or small, sticky s#%ks.

Not only is sticky a nuisance on it's own, misery loves company. I forgot to clean up in one spot and the next thing I knew, the sugar ants had not only invited themselves to an all-you-can-eat buffet but invited their friends as well. I am so sick of this!

It's not just sugary messes either. There's spilled glue, duct tape scum and sticker sticky. I went out to dinner tonight and the door handle to the bathroom was tacky sticky. It's everywhere!

So, the other day I came home with a case of ant traps and a cart full of cleaning supplies from the local home store. I think the lady at the checkout thought I had OCD. On the contrary, I have a battle plan and I intend to win. With my traps set and my magic eraser sponges in hand, all I can say is...

...look out sticky, here I come!

A Three Hour Tour

2008-07-06T23:05:00.010-04:00

So Long, Sweet Civilization!

Our family had a fabulous time camping this weekend, tubing down a 73 degree, spring-fed river. We all love snorkeling so we were out of our tubes more than we were in them. The park is called Ichet ucknee Springs State Park and I highly recommend you visit if ever in the area. There are several options as far as the length of your journey. We had all day so we chose the three hour trip and started in at the headwater. With nothing else to do but daydream and enjoy the surroundings, I had time for a little rear-view reflecting.

Do any of you remember the 60's sitcom "Gilligan's Island?" I hurried home from school just to get in my best TV watching position, making sure all my after school chores were done so that my mother didn't even consider calling my name during that half hour of my life.

The show focused around the adventures of seven stranded castaways and their attempt to survive. They were shipwrecked on an uncharted desert island hoping to escape.

I don't know why the shows fans loved it so much as each episode went the same way... visitors unexpectedly came to the island, the castaways did everything imaginable to earn or bribe their way to a rescue, and then Gilligan would always screw something up in the last five minutes of the show so that they were stuck there until we could revisit them again the next week.

Those who watched were dedicated. We talked about it the following day at school. Life would be so good if only they got off that blasted island! But then why would we watch? I finally figured out that it was a ploy to control my life. (At my age, my mom didn't have the nerve to let me in on the advertiser's little secret.) I must have watched all 98 episodes. When the sponsors finally decided to call the show quits, they made three movie sequels which rescued them and brought them back to civilization.

As in the words to the theme song, " No phone, no lights, no motor cars; not a single luxury. Like Robinson Crusoe; as primitive as can be," I use to wonder what that kind of existence would really be like. Presently, it would mean no cell phone, email, blog, TV and certainly no Nintendo for the kids. Wow!

That pretty much describes our weekend and we didn't miss any of it. Days were spent hugged by the shores of a pristine aquifer that never ceased releasing waters from it's source, the Blue Hole Spring. Nights consisted of smoky fires, S'mores and endless rounds of hide-n-seek with kids from surrounding campsites. None of our cellphones had a signal and I also forgot to charge the DVD player before leaving so we played "Spoons" every night with the kids. The weekend ended by exchanging addresses with new found friends.

Although we weren't stranded like the castaways, we truly enjoyed our primitive weekend. The stale ice cream sandwich from the corner store freezer tasted better, washing dishes on my picnic table was much more pleasant than filling the dishwasher, the coffee was tastier in a blue speckled enamelware cup, and the foam mattress felt even more comfortable than my Sealy Posturepedic!

That's Campin'

I Feel the Urge

2008-07-02T22:03:00.009-04:00

My labor was coming to an end, with its normal twists and turns. This baby was an answer to numerous private prayers to the Lord, asking Him to somehow bless me with another child to love. After many hours of concentrated breathing efforts, I began to feel a new sensation. It was strong and with it I experienced a fresh “wind in my sails.” I felt the urge to push.

My years as a home schooling Mom are far from over as I still have several in the nest that need training. I never could have imagined when I was young that I would be taking on the role of being my children’s educator. When that idea was first presented to me (unusually by my first child), I laughed thinking surely, I am entirely too inadequate. But my children have defied that reasoning, assuring me almost daily with a 100% approval rating saying, “I am the best teacher ever!”

It all started one morning parked outside the private school I had my son enrolled in. He and I were trying to let go of the hold we had on each other when we both heard the bell ring from my parked car next to the building. That meant another trip to the office for me and another tardy slip for him. Our excuse? We didn’t want to say goodbye. We felt that same way the night before he got married.

While some have enjoyed teaching their children to read, I can think of one child in particular who I could compare it to pulling eye teeth. She refused to sit still, much less show any kind of enjoyment over “couch time.” This one would rather be climbing a tree than sit with me for a few moments of cuddle time and a book. Somehow we got through those years and she is not illiterate. Her favorite book is by far the Song of Solomon. She reads it with incredible insight and her comprehension level is over the top.

I pray for tons of stamina and creativity as I continue on my journey. My 11 year old student takes me by surprise with his long, tender hugs. That’s not something every middle school teacher can brag about. Just when I feel like giving up, he seems to know exactly what I need. When others are counting the days to get away from their students on a “break,” I can honestly say, this child helps me appreciate my role as his teacher.

God knew what He was doing when I was told in my forties that I was pregnant. He knew that this little one would keep my life full and add to it daily with interest. She is the expression of joy and has a very keen sense of observation. I know I am suppose to be watching out for her but expect that she will in fact, be watching out for me. I didn’t understand the spacing between my children for years, but as the nest begins to empty, I see God’s grace and mercy through her toward me as a mother. I was never meant to be without one to teach.

My second child has now graduated and it's time for her to fly. She leaves in a week to a place that is halfway between my heart and the Pacific Ocean. I look back on our years together as child/parent, student/teacher, mother/daughter, and I can truly say I have no regrets. Together, we have finished the race. I am excited for all that God has planned for her. That’s not to say I won’t cry when she is 1,200 miles away. But we have a true friendship that’s stood the test of time and God has rewarded me with the ability to set her free. So now, once again, I feel the urge to push. It comes after a long, but good labor of love.

Ugly Is Just a Flavor

2008-06-26T09:44:00.009-04:00

My son was doing a little summer grammar lesson and asked me if the word "ugly" was an adjective or a proper noun, as in the book title, "The Ugly Duckling". I had to think for a minute. In most cases, "ugly" is an adjective, according to the dictionary. But I guess that really depends on how it is being used, or should I say,
what flavor you want.

Kids can be cruel. Adults too, but contrary to the sticks and stones rhyme, names do hurt. Being called "ugly" cuts deep to the soul. Calling someone that adjective leaves a bitter taste in the mouth of the slanderer, which is almost impossible to wash out. An apology is the only true remedy.

In the South, having a bad attitude is called being "ugly". It's been used to describe my disposition a time or two. Whether I'm annoyingly disagreeable or in an extremely sour mood, "ugly" usually leads to solitude. No one seems to want my company. The function here would be an adverb.

I was introduced to a sweet treat at the local donut shop which appeared deformed but tasted delicious. My guess, these huge fritters are made from a variety of donut scraps as well as apples and leftover raisins. First fried, then glazed with frosting, they are large enough for sharing. The "Ugly" has turned out to be one of my favorites, along with a cup of Joe. Herein, a proper noun, although not in the dictionary.

We live in a world where language keeps evolving. A negative word can have a positive meaning. For example, when your girlfriend sees your new pink highlights and comments you look "bad", she really means it looks fabulous. The flavor of words continue to change.

In the classic story by Hans Christian Anderson, the duckling faces an identity crisis. His differences seem overwhelming and he exists in the shadow of his own label. Eventually, he moves past the boundaries of the adjective and comes to the same realization: bitter, sour or sweet - ugly is just a flavor.

That's Campin'

2008-05-30T23:35:00.009-04:00

One of my favorite hobbies is by far camping.

The first time I went camping was in High School which was about 35 years ago. Since that time, I have not had many opportunities to camp but it made a huge impression on me.

I think my favorite thing about camping is the way it seems to turn two days into four, three days into six and so on. My entire family enjoys the time we can spend with one another, leaving many of the "time-suckers" behind.

I have a saying that I like to use while out in the great outdoors. It covers everything from mishaps to celebrations. Just learn to say, "That's Campin'" and any situation can be rectified quickly.

With a little preparation and a good attitude at the start, it is very likely you will fall in love with camping as well.

Cyber Psalmist