New design! I decided to switch things up a little bit at the one year mark of writing this blog. I decided I wanted a new background design. I hope you like it!
Our Daily Bread
What a great devotional! It reminds me of an 8 year old boy sitting in Sunday School class that thought "Hey, I need Jesus in my life. I am a sinner and need to ask for his forgiveness. " That boy was me. My life has never been the same. My life has been richer beyond compare with all the love I could ever understand showered on me, many times when I didn't even realize it.Praise God!
Have you accepted God's grace? If not, do so today!
Psalm Sunday
Psalm 17 is another one that talks a lot about what God should do to David's enemies! I guess he had a lot of them! hehehe I really like the first eight verses when he focuses on being right with God, with having a just plea and being tested of heart. I think I will incorporate some of that in some of my prayers. Very cool!
Psalm 17
A prayer of David.
1 Hear me, LORD, my plea is just;
listen to my cry.
Hear my prayer—
it does not rise from deceitful lips.
2 Let my vindication come from you;
may your eyes see what is right.
3 Though you probe my heart,
though you examine me at night and test me,
you will find that I have planned no evil;
my mouth has not transgressed.
4 Though people tried to bribe me,
I have kept myself from the ways of the violent
through what your lips have commanded.
5 My steps have held to your paths;
my feet have not stumbled.
6 I call on you, my God, for you will answer me;
turn your ear to me and hear my prayer.
7 Show me the wonders of your great love,
you who save by your right hand
those who take refuge in you from their foes.
8 Keep me as the apple of your eye;
hide me in the shadow of your wings
9 from the wicked who are out to destroy me,
from my mortal enemies who surround me.
10 They close up their callous hearts,
and their mouths speak with arrogance.
11 They have tracked me down, they now surround me,
with eyes alert, to throw me to the ground.
12 They are like a lion hungry for prey,
like a fierce lion crouching in cover.
13 Rise up, LORD, confront them, bring them down;
with your sword rescue me from the wicked.
14 By your hand save me from such people, LORD,
from those of this world whose reward is in this life.
May what you have stored up for the wicked fill their bellies;
may their children gorge themselves on it,
and may there be leftovers for their little ones.
15 As for me, I will be vindicated and will see your face;
when I awake, I will be satisfied with seeing your likeness.
Other Stuff
I had a nice afternoon of talking with friends and family on the phone. I road my recumbent bike for a HOUR! Yes, an HOUR! I watched the end of the Iron Man 2 movie while riding. I had to rest a while after finishing because my legs felt like rubber! I did some stretching. I am not sore this morning. I also did some light weights and some ab exercises. I will go to the gym again on Monday after work.
I am attending the Worthington UMC this morning. They have a special service at 10:00. I am glad I read their web site thoroughly before venturing there. The services are usually at a different time!
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Saturday, July 30, 2011
He is before all things...
Our Daily Bread
It took a while to understand the concept of "He is before all things". Hmmmm. Here is what I think it means.
Jesus was before all things were created and is the power behind the way all things work. Hmmmmm. Does that make sense? The devotional gave a great example of the solar system kit that the author installed for his son. The planet Jupiter fell to the ground after a short time. Isn't it amazing that all stars and planets and moons continue their paths in space? Isn't it amazing?
I find it even more amazing that the God who keeps the stars in place, who tells the moon where to hide in the daytime, who tells the ocean to only come so far ashore (from My Redeemer Lives) has an interest in my life. God wants a relationship with me. Wow! He wants the same thing with you, too!
Lord, help me keep the planets, moons and stars in my life moving along the paths they need to move. I love you!
Simply Saturday
I am writing this entry at 5:00 pm or so on Saturday. I usually write my entries in the morning, but I got up early and got out the door today so I could eat breakfast at Cracker Barrel before my Emmaus team meeting. I had a great breakfast. We had a great meeting! I am so thankful to be involved with this team.
I had some great conversations with friends and family this afternoon. It was nice relaxing and talking with them.
I think something amazing is happening in my life. I am learning to relax with people that are close to me. My close friends would argue that point somewhat because I always seem to be relaxed and comfortable in my own skin around them. I laugh and joke and cajole and talk serious depending on the situation. There have been some folks in my life that I have not been able to do that with until recently? What changed?
My theory is that God is answering the prayer I learned about over the summer -- "Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, please make me whole." This is a composite of two different prayers and concepts that God brought into my life the past four years. What does this prayer mean?
I learned about discernment a few months ago. I mean, I STARTED learning about discernment a few months ago. Whenever I am not sure what to pray for myself or for others, I pray "Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, please make me whole" or "Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, please make whole." What power? We know that God wants us all to be whole or Jesus wouldn't have made so many people whole during his ministry! What does "make me whole" mean? It means different things for different people. Asking God to make someone whole is asking God to do whatever is needed for that person (or for yourself). I learned about these concepts from the book "Stretch out your hand", which is available on Amazon.com. Being whole does not necessarily mean that a sick person will be made well. It may mean that God will use the situation in ways we could not imagine. One example in the book is where a woman reconciled with a family member who was estranged for many, many years. The woman died in peace. Her organs were used to save the lives and sight of several people, helping make them whole. She would have been overjoyed to have given so much to so many!
So when you are not sure what to pray, pray for wholeness, whatever that means at the time. For me, God is healing my heart and mind from the hurt and pain and insecurity and selfishness and many other things from my no-ordinary-life. He is healing my heart so I can truly love someone from the deepest part of me. I have no idea who that person is. I have no idea when I will meet him or if I have already met him. As a song says, "I don't know, I don't know, but there is one thing I know... Your love is better than life".
Let the healing begin in you. Stretch out your hand to wholeness. God will answer though maybe not in the way you want or expect.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
It took a while to understand the concept of "He is before all things". Hmmmm. Here is what I think it means.
Jesus was before all things were created and is the power behind the way all things work. Hmmmmm. Does that make sense? The devotional gave a great example of the solar system kit that the author installed for his son. The planet Jupiter fell to the ground after a short time. Isn't it amazing that all stars and planets and moons continue their paths in space? Isn't it amazing?
I find it even more amazing that the God who keeps the stars in place, who tells the moon where to hide in the daytime, who tells the ocean to only come so far ashore (from My Redeemer Lives) has an interest in my life. God wants a relationship with me. Wow! He wants the same thing with you, too!
Lord, help me keep the planets, moons and stars in my life moving along the paths they need to move. I love you!
Simply Saturday
I am writing this entry at 5:00 pm or so on Saturday. I usually write my entries in the morning, but I got up early and got out the door today so I could eat breakfast at Cracker Barrel before my Emmaus team meeting. I had a great breakfast. We had a great meeting! I am so thankful to be involved with this team.
I had some great conversations with friends and family this afternoon. It was nice relaxing and talking with them.
I think something amazing is happening in my life. I am learning to relax with people that are close to me. My close friends would argue that point somewhat because I always seem to be relaxed and comfortable in my own skin around them. I laugh and joke and cajole and talk serious depending on the situation. There have been some folks in my life that I have not been able to do that with until recently? What changed?
My theory is that God is answering the prayer I learned about over the summer -- "Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, please make me whole." This is a composite of two different prayers and concepts that God brought into my life the past four years. What does this prayer mean?
I learned about discernment a few months ago. I mean, I STARTED learning about discernment a few months ago. Whenever I am not sure what to pray for myself or for others, I pray "Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, please make me whole" or "Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, please make
So when you are not sure what to pray, pray for wholeness, whatever that means at the time. For me, God is healing my heart and mind from the hurt and pain and insecurity and selfishness and many other things from my no-ordinary-life. He is healing my heart so I can truly love someone from the deepest part of me. I have no idea who that person is. I have no idea when I will meet him or if I have already met him. As a song says, "I don't know, I don't know, but there is one thing I know... Your love is better than life".
Let the healing begin in you. Stretch out your hand to wholeness. God will answer though maybe not in the way you want or expect.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Friday, July 29, 2011
It is just stuff...
Our Daily Bread
The devotional today reminds me of a conversation that I had with a close friend in the past few years. We were talking about how God was working in us about all the "stuff" we had in our lives -- a nice house, nice car, clothes, shoes, etc -- much more than we really needed. When we talked about the possibilities of our lives changing so we didn't have all of the "stuff", how would we live?
I think about that when I look around at all the folks that don't have much in this world. Could I and should I downsize so I can give more to the poor and needy? Most folks think I am very generous, but I know I can do more. I will think about this some more and figure out what I need to do. I made up a saying:
"It is OK to own stuff as long as the stuff does not own you." ;-)
Lord, help me remember Micah 6:8 each and every day of my life....
Foodie Friday
I was watching the Food Network the other day while sitting in the doctors office. If you know me, then you know I don't watch TV very much. I saw this recipe and am dying to try it. It is more complicated than I usually like, but it looked GREAT! Here is the link.
Chicken Roulades with Chorizo and Manchego
Ingredients
Stuffing:
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
Extra-virgin olive oil
1 onion, cut into 1/4-inch dice
Kosher salt
Pinch crushed red pepper
1 clove garlic, smashed and finely chopped
1/2 pound Mexican chorizo, casing removed
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated aged Manchego cheese
1/2 bunch fresh Italian parsley, finely chopped
1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted and roughly chopped
1 egg
Breading:
1/2 cup flour
2 eggs
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Sauce:
Extra-virgin olive oil
Kosher salt
1 shallot, finely chopped
1/4 cup sherry vinegar
2 cups chicken stock
2 tablespoons (1/4 stick) unsalted butter
Directions
For the stuffing: Carefully slice through the chicken breasts to open the thickest part like a book. Place the chicken breasts in between plastic wrap and pound lightly with the flat side of a meat mallet to flatten and even out the chicken. Reserve.
Coat a large saute pan with olive oil, add the onions and sprinkle with salt and a pinch of crushed red pepper. Bring the pan to a medium-high heat and cook the onions until they are soft and very aromatic but have no color, 7 to 8 minutes. Toss in the garlic and cook for 1 to 2 minutes.
Crumble the chorizo and add to the pan. Cook the chorizo until it is cooked through, 5 to 6 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat and let cool slightly.
Transfer the chorizo mixture to a mixing bowl and stir in the breadcrumbs, Manchego, parsley, almonds and egg. Taste to make sure the stuffing is delicious.
Divide the filling among the 4 chicken breasts. Make a log of stuffing across the widest part of the chicken breast. Fold the ends over the stuffing and roll the chicken up to enclose the stuffing. Secure the rolls shut with a toothpick.
For the breading: Set up a standard breading procedure with 3 bowls: 1 with flour, 1 with 2 eggs beaten together with 2 tablespoons water and 1 with the panko breadcrumbs.
Dust each chicken roll lightly with flour, then dip in the egg wash and then roll in the panko. Once all the chicken rolls have been breaded, let them hang out in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Add olive oil to a large, straight-sided saute pan until it reaches a depth of 1/2-inch and bring the pan to a medium-high heat.
Brown the chicken rolls on all sides. When the chicken is brown, remove from the pan and blot on paper towels. Transfer the rolls to a sheet tray and place in the oven for 8 to 10 minutes.
For the sauce: Add a few drops of oil to a saute pan and add the shallots. Sprinkle with salt and bring the pan to a medium heat. Cook the shallots for 3 to 4 minutes and then add the sherry vinegar. Reduce the vinegar by half. Add half the chicken stock, season with salt and bring it to a boil. When the stock has reduced by half, add the remaining stock and reduce by half again. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed (it probably will).
Turn the heat to medium and swirl in 1 pat of butter at a time.
Remove the chicken from the oven, slice each roll into 4 or 5 slices, plate and spoon the sauce over.
Wine Pairing Suggestion: Albarino (Spanish wine goes with the Spanish ingredients).
Other Stuff
I went to the gym after work and then ran a quick errand to Walmart. I had supper with my walking buddy and her husband after the Walmart trip. The BBQ chicken, broccoli and mac and cheese were all delicious! My walking buddy understood when I wanted small portions and no dessert. I have been doing MUCH better about my eating habits the past three weeks. I have lost about 10 pounds so far. Whew!
The gym workout was my first in over 16 months. I took it easy. I have been doing some simple workouts at home to prepare. It felt good. I also felt odd because I was sooooo out of shape. I will work back into it slowly. By the time I got to the elliptical machine, I was very tired from the workout and my lunchtime walk. I will work back up on that machine as well. I may try to hit the gym after my Emmaus walk meeting tomorrow morning.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
The devotional today reminds me of a conversation that I had with a close friend in the past few years. We were talking about how God was working in us about all the "stuff" we had in our lives -- a nice house, nice car, clothes, shoes, etc -- much more than we really needed. When we talked about the possibilities of our lives changing so we didn't have all of the "stuff", how would we live?
I think about that when I look around at all the folks that don't have much in this world. Could I and should I downsize so I can give more to the poor and needy? Most folks think I am very generous, but I know I can do more. I will think about this some more and figure out what I need to do. I made up a saying:
"It is OK to own stuff as long as the stuff does not own you." ;-)
Lord, help me remember Micah 6:8 each and every day of my life....
Foodie Friday
I was watching the Food Network the other day while sitting in the doctors office. If you know me, then you know I don't watch TV very much. I saw this recipe and am dying to try it. It is more complicated than I usually like, but it looked GREAT! Here is the link.
Chicken Roulades with Chorizo and Manchego
Ingredients
Stuffing:
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
Extra-virgin olive oil
1 onion, cut into 1/4-inch dice
Kosher salt
Pinch crushed red pepper
1 clove garlic, smashed and finely chopped
1/2 pound Mexican chorizo, casing removed
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated aged Manchego cheese
1/2 bunch fresh Italian parsley, finely chopped
1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted and roughly chopped
1 egg
Breading:
1/2 cup flour
2 eggs
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Sauce:
Extra-virgin olive oil
Kosher salt
1 shallot, finely chopped
1/4 cup sherry vinegar
2 cups chicken stock
2 tablespoons (1/4 stick) unsalted butter
Directions
For the stuffing: Carefully slice through the chicken breasts to open the thickest part like a book. Place the chicken breasts in between plastic wrap and pound lightly with the flat side of a meat mallet to flatten and even out the chicken. Reserve.
Coat a large saute pan with olive oil, add the onions and sprinkle with salt and a pinch of crushed red pepper. Bring the pan to a medium-high heat and cook the onions until they are soft and very aromatic but have no color, 7 to 8 minutes. Toss in the garlic and cook for 1 to 2 minutes.
Crumble the chorizo and add to the pan. Cook the chorizo until it is cooked through, 5 to 6 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat and let cool slightly.
Transfer the chorizo mixture to a mixing bowl and stir in the breadcrumbs, Manchego, parsley, almonds and egg. Taste to make sure the stuffing is delicious.
Divide the filling among the 4 chicken breasts. Make a log of stuffing across the widest part of the chicken breast. Fold the ends over the stuffing and roll the chicken up to enclose the stuffing. Secure the rolls shut with a toothpick.
For the breading: Set up a standard breading procedure with 3 bowls: 1 with flour, 1 with 2 eggs beaten together with 2 tablespoons water and 1 with the panko breadcrumbs.
Dust each chicken roll lightly with flour, then dip in the egg wash and then roll in the panko. Once all the chicken rolls have been breaded, let them hang out in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Add olive oil to a large, straight-sided saute pan until it reaches a depth of 1/2-inch and bring the pan to a medium-high heat.
Brown the chicken rolls on all sides. When the chicken is brown, remove from the pan and blot on paper towels. Transfer the rolls to a sheet tray and place in the oven for 8 to 10 minutes.
For the sauce: Add a few drops of oil to a saute pan and add the shallots. Sprinkle with salt and bring the pan to a medium heat. Cook the shallots for 3 to 4 minutes and then add the sherry vinegar. Reduce the vinegar by half. Add half the chicken stock, season with salt and bring it to a boil. When the stock has reduced by half, add the remaining stock and reduce by half again. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed (it probably will).
Turn the heat to medium and swirl in 1 pat of butter at a time.
Remove the chicken from the oven, slice each roll into 4 or 5 slices, plate and spoon the sauce over.
Wine Pairing Suggestion: Albarino (Spanish wine goes with the Spanish ingredients).
Other Stuff
I went to the gym after work and then ran a quick errand to Walmart. I had supper with my walking buddy and her husband after the Walmart trip. The BBQ chicken, broccoli and mac and cheese were all delicious! My walking buddy understood when I wanted small portions and no dessert. I have been doing MUCH better about my eating habits the past three weeks. I have lost about 10 pounds so far. Whew!
The gym workout was my first in over 16 months. I took it easy. I have been doing some simple workouts at home to prepare. It felt good. I also felt odd because I was sooooo out of shape. I will work back into it slowly. By the time I got to the elliptical machine, I was very tired from the workout and my lunchtime walk. I will work back up on that machine as well. I may try to hit the gym after my Emmaus walk meeting tomorrow morning.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Thursday, July 28, 2011
What you do in secret...
Our Daily Bread
Have you ever known anyone that makes a big deal about everything they do for God? It makes you wonder why they are really doing it -- for God or for their own edification! I try to give people the benefit of the doubt, but it is difficult at times.
The devotional talks about a period when the author fasted as part of his study on the Tabernacle of the Old Testament. If you are not familiar with this wonder, read the book of Deuteronomy to find out the specifics of the movable structure.
I tried to not make my "restraint" last weekend a big deal. I had a great time volunteering. My friends didn't think I was having a good time because I wasn't doing the same things they were doing (drinking, carousing, sex, etc). I did my best to be joyful and not be somber because of my "sacrifice". It was not really a sacrifice. God knows what is best for us. He told me to do what was best for me. For once, I listened. I was very humbled by the strength he gave me.
Lord, help us have the quiet, confident joy that only you can give.
Technology Thursday
Still not much going on in the technology world. Heavy sigh. PCs are pretty much dead. Laptops are turning into tablets. Tablets are trying to be iPads. People want to do everything on their phones, including taking pictures, making music and making movies. Wireless phone providers such as ATT and Verizon are trying to figure out how to handle the volume of data traffic. DOH! If you sell hundreds of thousands of smartphones with data plans, people are going to use them! DOH! Oh well.
I received permission to order a new work laptop. Woohooo! I should get it in a few weeks. It should be very fast. I am excited.
Other Stuff
I had a great conversation last night with my close friend that has been going through a hard time. We both shared several things and then prayed together. I will do my best not to be selfish and push my way into his life any more than I already have. He knows he can count on me if he wants to rely on me. I will pray for him and give him space.
I saw the movie Captain America last night. I will write about it on Monday. A friend recommended Friends with Benefits. That is not my usual kind of movie, but I may see it at her recommendation.
I canceled my registration for the Sing a New Song conference last night. I really wasn't "feeling it". I may regret this decision later, but I think it is the right one for now. Canceling will save me over $200 and free up two vacation days I can use for something else.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Have you ever known anyone that makes a big deal about everything they do for God? It makes you wonder why they are really doing it -- for God or for their own edification! I try to give people the benefit of the doubt, but it is difficult at times.
The devotional talks about a period when the author fasted as part of his study on the Tabernacle of the Old Testament. If you are not familiar with this wonder, read the book of Deuteronomy to find out the specifics of the movable structure.
I tried to not make my "restraint" last weekend a big deal. I had a great time volunteering. My friends didn't think I was having a good time because I wasn't doing the same things they were doing (drinking, carousing, sex, etc). I did my best to be joyful and not be somber because of my "sacrifice". It was not really a sacrifice. God knows what is best for us. He told me to do what was best for me. For once, I listened. I was very humbled by the strength he gave me.
Lord, help us have the quiet, confident joy that only you can give.
Technology Thursday
Still not much going on in the technology world. Heavy sigh. PCs are pretty much dead. Laptops are turning into tablets. Tablets are trying to be iPads. People want to do everything on their phones, including taking pictures, making music and making movies. Wireless phone providers such as ATT and Verizon are trying to figure out how to handle the volume of data traffic. DOH! If you sell hundreds of thousands of smartphones with data plans, people are going to use them! DOH! Oh well.
I received permission to order a new work laptop. Woohooo! I should get it in a few weeks. It should be very fast. I am excited.
Other Stuff
I had a great conversation last night with my close friend that has been going through a hard time. We both shared several things and then prayed together. I will do my best not to be selfish and push my way into his life any more than I already have. He knows he can count on me if he wants to rely on me. I will pray for him and give him space.
I saw the movie Captain America last night. I will write about it on Monday. A friend recommended Friends with Benefits. That is not my usual kind of movie, but I may see it at her recommendation.
I canceled my registration for the Sing a New Song conference last night. I really wasn't "feeling it". I may regret this decision later, but I think it is the right one for now. Canceling will save me over $200 and free up two vacation days I can use for something else.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Fairness and justice
Our Daily Bread
The devotional was great today. I remember studying these passages in my D2 class last year. Loving God and serving God is very simple if we look at Deuteronomy 10:12-13. So many people make things waaaayyy too complicated!
I needed to hear this message again today. God reminded me of a situation that I was putting in front of Him as I was driving into work this morning. I am humbled to say that I recognized the situation and asked God to help me put nothing or noone in front of Him in my life. If I can ever figure this out and put it into every day practice, I may have a major breakthrough in my life! ;-p God is so good and patient with me.
What things are you putting before God? Are there things you can do to promote fairness and justice around you? Think and pray about it.
Lord, you are an awesome God. Thank you for the privilege of serving you each and every day. Please help me do a better job!
Witness Wednesday
So what is next for Duanebear (my Internet nickname and email address)? I am not sure. I am excited about being "on team" for the Emmaus walk in September. I think I am going to sing with the Columbus Gay Mens Chorus this year (maybe not for the whole season). I am thinking about going to the big GALA conference next year in Denver (either with the chorus or as an observer).
My biggest challenge right now is figuring out what to do about church. I like attending King Avenue. I have made many friends there. I feel like I am not getting the opportunities to serve there like I want. I may just be a little paranoid or I may have a keen sense of what is obvious. I attended a church that is three blocks from my house on July 17. I liked it a lot. I plan to attend another church this Sunday, probably Worthington UMC. I will probably stick with being a Methodist, but that is on the table as well. I sincerely doubt that I will go back to the Southern Baptist church.
I will write about my journey like I do everything else. ;-)
Other Stuff
I ordered some eyeglasses last night. I went to the eye doctor that will be performing my next cataract surgery on Monday for an evaluation of corrective vision options. We decided that Lasik or PRK are really overkill for the 20-70 vision that I have in my right eye. I will try glasses for a while to see how they work. I bought single vision glasses to mainly use for driving and at the movies. I can get by most of the time without glasses for distance vision. My vision in both eyes is good enough to pass the eye exam for my driver's license next month. That is good. I will post pictures of the two frames I ordered. Neither one is particularly stylish as I went for cheap instead. ;-p I do not know how long I will be wearing them or if I will like wearing them at all. I will figure all of that out.
I got the last two loads of laundry washed and dried. I need to hang up and put away clothes tonight.
I got the lawn mowed last night. I didn't feel like edging or trimming. I will do that next time. My hanging baskets are hanging in there. I will post pictures of them as they have grown a lot since I put them up. I almost lost one of them when I forgot to water it for several days. Yikes!
Lastly, I am trying not to push myself into a friend's life. We have had an odd relationship for over 3.5 years now. He is going through a difficult time. I am trying to be there for him, but not overwhelm him with my concern and need to help. I am trying not to be selfish. I am trying to encourage him to find the strength that i see him and that God sees in him.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
The devotional was great today. I remember studying these passages in my D2 class last year. Loving God and serving God is very simple if we look at Deuteronomy 10:12-13. So many people make things waaaayyy too complicated!
I needed to hear this message again today. God reminded me of a situation that I was putting in front of Him as I was driving into work this morning. I am humbled to say that I recognized the situation and asked God to help me put nothing or noone in front of Him in my life. If I can ever figure this out and put it into every day practice, I may have a major breakthrough in my life! ;-p God is so good and patient with me.
What things are you putting before God? Are there things you can do to promote fairness and justice around you? Think and pray about it.
Lord, you are an awesome God. Thank you for the privilege of serving you each and every day. Please help me do a better job!
Witness Wednesday
So what is next for Duanebear (my Internet nickname and email address)? I am not sure. I am excited about being "on team" for the Emmaus walk in September. I think I am going to sing with the Columbus Gay Mens Chorus this year (maybe not for the whole season). I am thinking about going to the big GALA conference next year in Denver (either with the chorus or as an observer).
My biggest challenge right now is figuring out what to do about church. I like attending King Avenue. I have made many friends there. I feel like I am not getting the opportunities to serve there like I want. I may just be a little paranoid or I may have a keen sense of what is obvious. I attended a church that is three blocks from my house on July 17. I liked it a lot. I plan to attend another church this Sunday, probably Worthington UMC. I will probably stick with being a Methodist, but that is on the table as well. I sincerely doubt that I will go back to the Southern Baptist church.
I will write about my journey like I do everything else. ;-)
Other Stuff
I ordered some eyeglasses last night. I went to the eye doctor that will be performing my next cataract surgery on Monday for an evaluation of corrective vision options. We decided that Lasik or PRK are really overkill for the 20-70 vision that I have in my right eye. I will try glasses for a while to see how they work. I bought single vision glasses to mainly use for driving and at the movies. I can get by most of the time without glasses for distance vision. My vision in both eyes is good enough to pass the eye exam for my driver's license next month. That is good. I will post pictures of the two frames I ordered. Neither one is particularly stylish as I went for cheap instead. ;-p I do not know how long I will be wearing them or if I will like wearing them at all. I will figure all of that out.
I got the last two loads of laundry washed and dried. I need to hang up and put away clothes tonight.
I got the lawn mowed last night. I didn't feel like edging or trimming. I will do that next time. My hanging baskets are hanging in there. I will post pictures of them as they have grown a lot since I put them up. I almost lost one of them when I forgot to water it for several days. Yikes!
Lastly, I am trying not to push myself into a friend's life. We have had an odd relationship for over 3.5 years now. He is going through a difficult time. I am trying to be there for him, but not overwhelm him with my concern and need to help. I am trying not to be selfish. I am trying to encourage him to find the strength that i see him and that God sees in him.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Monday, July 25, 2011
Where was this devotional over the weekend?
Our Daily Bread
I am very thankful for God's strength and discipline. I promised myself and God that I would behave myself over the weekend even though I knew that I would have many, many chances for drinking and carousing and sex. Some of my friends noticed. Some didn't. I made it clear that I got out of the weekend the things I wanted -- I met new friends, I caught up with old ones, I helped raise money for a charity and I passed a tremendous test. I am humbled by the experience. I know it was only by the grace of God that I was able to keep my promise.
Why you might ask? Look at today's devotional. Seeking pleasure or fame or riches or whatever things the "world" thinks as good only leads to the realization that "all is vanity and chasing the wind". I am not much of a wind chaser! hehehe Finding meaning in life comes from connecting to God and loving others. It is that simple.
As I am writing this entry, I realized that God showed me that I had even more inner strength when I rely on him. DOH! I have been complaining lately that I am so lonely, don't like living alone, want to be with someone, blah, blah, blah. God showed me that through him ALL things are possible. ALL things, not just the things that were written in the Bible thousands of years ago. They are possible TODAY in you and me.
Lord, thank you for your strength and leadership. I will do my best to continue to follow...
Movie Monday
Didn't get to see any movies this week. It was awful! I was busy all week with something or another. I plan to see Captain America in the next few days. I hope to see Cowboys and Aliens this weekend.
Other Stuff
I had a restful day on Sunday. After checking out of the hotel, I had a nice breakfast at First Watch. I went to an open house sponsored by my walking buddy and her husband. The new house near the childrens hospital was very cool! It was also cool to see the reaction of a couple that looked at the house. The wife was wide-eyed and in awe over the kitchen. "That is my dream!" she said. Very sweet. I hope they buy the place. It is very nice.
I took a nice nap, then made my meatless meatloaf recipe for the church dinner group. We had a vegan/vegetarian theme for the evening. Everyone did a great job of making tasty dishes without meat (and most meat products). My favorite was the salt potatoes! Mmmmmm
I ended the day with a conversation with a close friend. I reached out to him because I have been worried about him. He finally called me back for a long talk. He means a lot to me. I was able to talk to him and hear his side of things. I know God will continue to grow in his life as he faces his current hardships. I thank God in advance for this victory. I will do my best to be the kind of friend he needs.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
I am very thankful for God's strength and discipline. I promised myself and God that I would behave myself over the weekend even though I knew that I would have many, many chances for drinking and carousing and sex. Some of my friends noticed. Some didn't. I made it clear that I got out of the weekend the things I wanted -- I met new friends, I caught up with old ones, I helped raise money for a charity and I passed a tremendous test. I am humbled by the experience. I know it was only by the grace of God that I was able to keep my promise.
Why you might ask? Look at today's devotional. Seeking pleasure or fame or riches or whatever things the "world" thinks as good only leads to the realization that "all is vanity and chasing the wind". I am not much of a wind chaser! hehehe Finding meaning in life comes from connecting to God and loving others. It is that simple.
As I am writing this entry, I realized that God showed me that I had even more inner strength when I rely on him. DOH! I have been complaining lately that I am so lonely, don't like living alone, want to be with someone, blah, blah, blah. God showed me that through him ALL things are possible. ALL things, not just the things that were written in the Bible thousands of years ago. They are possible TODAY in you and me.
Lord, thank you for your strength and leadership. I will do my best to continue to follow...
Movie Monday
Didn't get to see any movies this week. It was awful! I was busy all week with something or another. I plan to see Captain America in the next few days. I hope to see Cowboys and Aliens this weekend.
Other Stuff
I had a restful day on Sunday. After checking out of the hotel, I had a nice breakfast at First Watch. I went to an open house sponsored by my walking buddy and her husband. The new house near the childrens hospital was very cool! It was also cool to see the reaction of a couple that looked at the house. The wife was wide-eyed and in awe over the kitchen. "That is my dream!" she said. Very sweet. I hope they buy the place. It is very nice.
I took a nice nap, then made my meatless meatloaf recipe for the church dinner group. We had a vegan/vegetarian theme for the evening. Everyone did a great job of making tasty dishes without meat (and most meat products). My favorite was the salt potatoes! Mmmmmm
I ended the day with a conversation with a close friend. I reached out to him because I have been worried about him. He finally called me back for a long talk. He means a lot to me. I was able to talk to him and hear his side of things. I know God will continue to grow in his life as he faces his current hardships. I thank God in advance for this victory. I will do my best to be the kind of friend he needs.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Saturday, July 23, 2011
What a night
I volunteered at a charity event last night. Didnt get to bed until 5:30 this morning. I have to admit I slept most of the day. I feel better now!
I plan to work again tonight after i have dinner with some friends from out of town.
Hang in there my friends!
I plan to work again tonight after i have dinner with some friends from out of town.
Hang in there my friends!
Friday, July 22, 2011
What has he done for you?
Our Daily Bread
I liked the devotional for this reason: personal testimony will almost always trump Bible thumping! What do I mean by that? Many times folks witness by telling a person what Jesus can do for them. They try to pound the Bible down their throat to "win them to the Lord". That may work or may be necessary sometimes. The point of the devotional was that the writer's personal testimony of what Jesus did for him really impressed his seatmate on the train ride. How cool is that?
I thought about how I would tell someone about what Jesus has done for me. There are too many things to list them all out on paper! Learning to describe these things to another person takes practice and commitment. It is so easy to get fragmented and lack cohesive thoughts when talking about your personal faith. Try practicing that today!
Lord, you know I don't have ANY problems talking to others. I want to talk to others more about you and what you have done in my life.
Foodie Friday
No recipe this week. I plan to make my meatless meatloaf if I get to attend my dinner group on Sunday night. Not sure what my schedule will be on Sunday. I want to talk about ice cream today (since it is summer!). Here are some of the ice cream brands I like.
Ben and Jerry's
Ben and Jerry's offers some of the best "mix" type ice cream flavors. All of their ice creams, IMHO, have a great mixture of ingredients to maximize flavor. I don't usually eat the plain flavors. I choose other brands for that pleasure.
Graeters
Again, another great ice cream if you like something with wonderful chocolate chunks in it! The mint chocolate chip is the best I have ever had. MmmmMmmmmmm
Haagen Daas
This is a "eat the plain flavors" ice cream for me. I love the chocolate! It is wonderful!
Baskin-Robbins
This is swill compared to some of the others I mentioned, but is good if you can't find anything better. hehehe
Jeni's
I have to say that Jeni's is splendid ice cream indeed. It is horribly expensive to me, but it is wonderful! I love the dark chocolate and dark chocolate peppermint (special flavor for Christmas)! I discovered a combination that was outrageous -- dark chocolate and bourbon butter pecan! OMG! This is definitely the best I have every had.
Other Stuff
I had a great session with my counselor last night. He has been so supportive of my personal growth during the past 3.5 years. We reviewed that again last night. I am very thankful I found him.
I had a long talk with my sister and my best friend. That was fun.
I packed my stuff for my downtown stay for the weekend. I tried to book a room at the host hotel for Bear Camp, but I felt the rooms were way too expensive. I don't really care for Priceline, but I thought I would try it out again. I made an offer for one of the four-star hotels in downtown Columbus, all of which are close to the host hotel. They accepted my bid of $50 per night! Woohooo! I will check in there this afternoon. I will sleeping mostly during the day when I am not volunteering at night. Should be a fun weekend weekend regardless.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
I liked the devotional for this reason: personal testimony will almost always trump Bible thumping! What do I mean by that? Many times folks witness by telling a person what Jesus can do for them. They try to pound the Bible down their throat to "win them to the Lord". That may work or may be necessary sometimes. The point of the devotional was that the writer's personal testimony of what Jesus did for him really impressed his seatmate on the train ride. How cool is that?
I thought about how I would tell someone about what Jesus has done for me. There are too many things to list them all out on paper! Learning to describe these things to another person takes practice and commitment. It is so easy to get fragmented and lack cohesive thoughts when talking about your personal faith. Try practicing that today!
Lord, you know I don't have ANY problems talking to others. I want to talk to others more about you and what you have done in my life.
Foodie Friday
No recipe this week. I plan to make my meatless meatloaf if I get to attend my dinner group on Sunday night. Not sure what my schedule will be on Sunday. I want to talk about ice cream today (since it is summer!). Here are some of the ice cream brands I like.
Ben and Jerry's
Ben and Jerry's offers some of the best "mix" type ice cream flavors. All of their ice creams, IMHO, have a great mixture of ingredients to maximize flavor. I don't usually eat the plain flavors. I choose other brands for that pleasure.
Graeters
Again, another great ice cream if you like something with wonderful chocolate chunks in it! The mint chocolate chip is the best I have ever had. MmmmMmmmmmm
Haagen Daas
This is a "eat the plain flavors" ice cream for me. I love the chocolate! It is wonderful!
Baskin-Robbins
This is swill compared to some of the others I mentioned, but is good if you can't find anything better. hehehe
Jeni's
I have to say that Jeni's is splendid ice cream indeed. It is horribly expensive to me, but it is wonderful! I love the dark chocolate and dark chocolate peppermint (special flavor for Christmas)! I discovered a combination that was outrageous -- dark chocolate and bourbon butter pecan! OMG! This is definitely the best I have every had.
Other Stuff
I had a great session with my counselor last night. He has been so supportive of my personal growth during the past 3.5 years. We reviewed that again last night. I am very thankful I found him.
I had a long talk with my sister and my best friend. That was fun.
I packed my stuff for my downtown stay for the weekend. I tried to book a room at the host hotel for Bear Camp, but I felt the rooms were way too expensive. I don't really care for Priceline, but I thought I would try it out again. I made an offer for one of the four-star hotels in downtown Columbus, all of which are close to the host hotel. They accepted my bid of $50 per night! Woohooo! I will check in there this afternoon. I will sleeping mostly during the day when I am not volunteering at night. Should be a fun weekend weekend regardless.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Thursday, July 21, 2011
No pain, no gain...
Our Daily Bread
I used to hate that saying when I was training for sports in my younger years "no pain, no gain". Doctors finally figured out that too much pain or the wrong kind of pain could be very harmful! DOH! hehehe
I have been through a lot of health issues in my life. I could have ended up a bitter old man who resented God for all the challenges. That is not what happened. I may be a little bitter, but it is more from some other situations in my life. Hmmmmm, I guess I need to look at that bitterness as well and turn it in to praise. I just realized that while writing this entry. Hmmmm. God wants us to flee to him in all situations.
Lord, I want to praise you in all situations, even in ones where the words of praise seem to elude me.
Technology Thursday
So the only interesting thing going on in the technology field any more is Apple product releases. I mean they are so far ahead of the other companies in so many ways that you see phrases like "iPhone-killer" or "iPad-killer" or "MacBook Air-Killer". It is so boring watching other companies make announcements about products and then disappoint everyone if they finally release it, for example, the BlackBerry Playbook. Ewww!
Well, Apple release some new products this week. The new MacBook Air is just as light as ever, but has faster processors available, the return of the backlit keyboard, and the introduction of the new connectivity port that is much faster than USB2.x or 3.x. Very cool stuff.
Apple also introduced the new Mac Mini. This is also a very cool technology with so much computing power in such a small little box. Very cool as well.
Apple is making use of SSD (solid state drives) hard disks in their computers to make them even faster. These drives are coming down in price every day. I found a deal on the Costco coupon book for a 128gig SSD for under $180. Very good deal. I am not sure I want to upgrade my laptop any more. It is over three years old, but still very fast. The SSD could extend the life for another few years considering I don't use it much. I will see how that goes.
Other stuff
I started feeling better last night. Unfortunately it was about 1:00 in the morning! Yikes! I finally went back to sleep until the alarm went off. I had a great talk with my youngest sister about her new grandson. My baby sister is a grandmother! Yikes!
I also fixed a nice supper, though I ate too much too fast. Need to work on that. I have lost 9 pounds in the past few weeks through better eating and a little exercise. I haven't felt well enough to go to the gym, but have been walking and riding my bike and doing some light weights around the house. I will kick that up next week.
Life is soooo good my friends. Yes, there are times when making decisions is difficult. What is next for me? is my prayer to God right now. I will figure it out.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
I used to hate that saying when I was training for sports in my younger years "no pain, no gain". Doctors finally figured out that too much pain or the wrong kind of pain could be very harmful! DOH! hehehe
I have been through a lot of health issues in my life. I could have ended up a bitter old man who resented God for all the challenges. That is not what happened. I may be a little bitter, but it is more from some other situations in my life. Hmmmmm, I guess I need to look at that bitterness as well and turn it in to praise. I just realized that while writing this entry. Hmmmm. God wants us to flee to him in all situations.
Lord, I want to praise you in all situations, even in ones where the words of praise seem to elude me.
Technology Thursday
So the only interesting thing going on in the technology field any more is Apple product releases. I mean they are so far ahead of the other companies in so many ways that you see phrases like "iPhone-killer" or "iPad-killer" or "MacBook Air-Killer". It is so boring watching other companies make announcements about products and then disappoint everyone if they finally release it, for example, the BlackBerry Playbook. Ewww!
Well, Apple release some new products this week. The new MacBook Air is just as light as ever, but has faster processors available, the return of the backlit keyboard, and the introduction of the new connectivity port that is much faster than USB2.x or 3.x. Very cool stuff.
Apple also introduced the new Mac Mini. This is also a very cool technology with so much computing power in such a small little box. Very cool as well.
Apple is making use of SSD (solid state drives) hard disks in their computers to make them even faster. These drives are coming down in price every day. I found a deal on the Costco coupon book for a 128gig SSD for under $180. Very good deal. I am not sure I want to upgrade my laptop any more. It is over three years old, but still very fast. The SSD could extend the life for another few years considering I don't use it much. I will see how that goes.
Other stuff
I started feeling better last night. Unfortunately it was about 1:00 in the morning! Yikes! I finally went back to sleep until the alarm went off. I had a great talk with my youngest sister about her new grandson. My baby sister is a grandmother! Yikes!
I also fixed a nice supper, though I ate too much too fast. Need to work on that. I have lost 9 pounds in the past few weeks through better eating and a little exercise. I haven't felt well enough to go to the gym, but have been walking and riding my bike and doing some light weights around the house. I will kick that up next week.
Life is soooo good my friends. Yes, there are times when making decisions is difficult. What is next for me? is my prayer to God right now. I will figure it out.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
I love you, yeah, yeah, yeah
It can be easy to say "I love you". Unfortunately, it can be difficult to actually show love in all situations! Yikes!
Like I mentioned the other day, I can be a tit-for-tat kind of person when I am wronged. The devotional today reinforces the need to slow down. Think about what you are going to say. Does it show God's love? Is it patient and kind?
I have a problem with impatience at work. For example, I had to stay late tonight for a late meeting. The folks that were supposed to know stuff didn't and kept asking questions out of scope for the meeting. I finally said something that was not particularly kind. I am sorry if I get tired of people who make a LOT more money than me that waste my time and the time of others asking questions that we answered in meetings last week. They did not review the minutes. They obviously weren't paying attention. Nice. I will try to do better.
Lord, I want to be more patient with folks that should be in the know. I realize I am not the most patient person in the world!
Witness Wednesday
So where I am now in this no ordinary life? I am trying to figure out "what is next?" for me. That is not an easy question to answer as I found out. It is like one of those multiple-part questions on a very difficult test. You have to dissect each part of the question to be sure you understand what is required for the answers. I can do this. I test well. ;-)
Tests in life aren't as easy for me. I can choose to doubt. I can choose to be depressed and withdraw. I can choose to delve into any number of behaviors to distract myself from the real problem(s). We all do at least one of these things. For me, my distractions include, working too much, playing too much, spending too much money, traveling too much, going to movies too much, eating too much, --fill in the blank for yourself--.
The best we can do is do our best to trust God. This sounds sooooo simple, but those who have tried it know it is not simple. It is not one of those "OK, I am going to fall back now. Someone catch me!" exercises that you might have done with coworkers. We are talking real life here. Yes, I want to trust. Yes, I try to trust. Yes, I doubt sometimes because I just can't imagine how things could possibly work out. God's ways are the most amazing when we trust in those impossible situations.
So where am I at now? I am trusting. I am walking even though I don't know where the road is going. Praise God!
Other Stuff
I had a quiet evening at home. I returned some phone calls. I checked on my new great-nephew. I called my mother. Went to bed early.
Life is so good. God is so good. I find ways to doubt and ask "what have you done for me lately?". It is only human nature. We can move beyond that if we rely on God to help us.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Oh brother..
Our Daily Bread
We studied the stories of Abraham and Sarah in the Disciple 2 class I took earlier this year. My favorite saying in the class was about Sarah, who was about 90 years old when these stories occurred. "Was she really that HOT at 90 for all of these kings and men to want her?" hehehe A fair question!
Yes, the lesson is a great one about fear. It is easy to fear what might come next, what is happening now or what you already did! Fear, in my opinion, comes in part from not trusting God. I am not talking about trusting God more when you drive through a bad part of town, though I usually pray a lot when I do! I am talking about the quiet, confident joy in knowing God has your back. God wants to love and support you if you let his Holy Spirit flow through you. Amazing stuff...
Lord, I want to trust you and not live in fear. Thank you for overcoming fear and the grave!
Teaching Tuesday
I have no idea what to write here this week. I have a few things to say about discernment, I think. I have been thinking and praying a lot about discernment the past few months. I am starting to understand, but also feel at times that I have no clue. ;-p
What am I talking about? If you read my blog much at all, you might remember my references to not knowing where the road before me is going and the fact that it doesn't really matter as long as God is leading. That is all fine and good if you are standing still, however, life is about moving forward. How fast should I go? Where should I stop along the way? There are so many distractions, like the Cracker Barrel sign on the highway! hehehe
We need discernment to help us sort out things. To figure out what God wants to do and say. To figure out what to do with our lives. To figure out "what's next". This is not just for the big things in life. Discernment can also help us be more sensitive to the still small voice inside us that wants to lead us through each and every minute of every day. How cool is that?
My latest example was Sunday. I felt led to attend a church very close to my house. The sermon was about "finding home" and "what's next". Wow. I couldn't believe it. That was my affirmation of my decision to attend that day. Does that mean I need to leave King Avenue? Not necessarily. My search for a new church home my lead back to King Avenue. It may not. I will find out and write about it here.
Other Stuff
I had a relaxing evening at home. This weekend will be crazy busy with volunteer work. I am excited about it.
I cut up the chicken I grilled last night over a salad for supper. Mmmmm. I forgot how much I liked that. I ate pretty well yesterday.
I got two phone calls yesterday that my new great-nephew was born three months premature. Mother and son are doing fine, but he will be in the hospital for a while.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
We studied the stories of Abraham and Sarah in the Disciple 2 class I took earlier this year. My favorite saying in the class was about Sarah, who was about 90 years old when these stories occurred. "Was she really that HOT at 90 for all of these kings and men to want her?" hehehe A fair question!
Yes, the lesson is a great one about fear. It is easy to fear what might come next, what is happening now or what you already did! Fear, in my opinion, comes in part from not trusting God. I am not talking about trusting God more when you drive through a bad part of town, though I usually pray a lot when I do! I am talking about the quiet, confident joy in knowing God has your back. God wants to love and support you if you let his Holy Spirit flow through you. Amazing stuff...
Lord, I want to trust you and not live in fear. Thank you for overcoming fear and the grave!
Teaching Tuesday
I have no idea what to write here this week. I have a few things to say about discernment, I think. I have been thinking and praying a lot about discernment the past few months. I am starting to understand, but also feel at times that I have no clue. ;-p
What am I talking about? If you read my blog much at all, you might remember my references to not knowing where the road before me is going and the fact that it doesn't really matter as long as God is leading. That is all fine and good if you are standing still, however, life is about moving forward. How fast should I go? Where should I stop along the way? There are so many distractions, like the Cracker Barrel sign on the highway! hehehe
We need discernment to help us sort out things. To figure out what God wants to do and say. To figure out what to do with our lives. To figure out "what's next". This is not just for the big things in life. Discernment can also help us be more sensitive to the still small voice inside us that wants to lead us through each and every minute of every day. How cool is that?
My latest example was Sunday. I felt led to attend a church very close to my house. The sermon was about "finding home" and "what's next". Wow. I couldn't believe it. That was my affirmation of my decision to attend that day. Does that mean I need to leave King Avenue? Not necessarily. My search for a new church home my lead back to King Avenue. It may not. I will find out and write about it here.
Other Stuff
I had a relaxing evening at home. This weekend will be crazy busy with volunteer work. I am excited about it.
I cut up the chicken I grilled last night over a salad for supper. Mmmmm. I forgot how much I liked that. I ate pretty well yesterday.
I got two phone calls yesterday that my new great-nephew was born three months premature. Mother and son are doing fine, but he will be in the hospital for a while.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Monday, July 18, 2011
Tit for tat....
Our Daily Bread
I hate to admit it, but I am sometimes a "tit for tat" kind of person. You hurt me. I hurt you right back. It is only human nature. I am only human.
The devotional today talks about how we should act when we are mocked or criticized because of our faith. It should not be a tit for tat response! No way! Look to our heavenly Father before responding, if you respond at all. Say a little prayer. Count to ten (I sometimes have to count to a thousand!). Remember the other person is also a creation of God, even though it sure seems like s/he is from the devil! hehehe
Lord, I want to look to you in all situations so I can best show your love. It is so difficult!
Movie Monday
I got to see three movies this week. It was a good week. hehehe
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 2
I felt like the final installment followed the book pretty well. I think the big complaint was that the last, very long, book was a downer! The story of Harry Potter came to a close. It was the end of an era for many people in their teens and early 20s who grew up with the books and movies.
I thought the special effects were great and not over done. I saw it in 2D, so I don't know about the 3D effects in the other versions. The ending battle was almost too much for me. I didn't like seeing Hogwarts in ruins. Oh well. My favorite part was when Mrs Weasley kills Beatrice. You go, girl!
I give this one three bear paws. See it at the theater on the big screen.
Horrible Bosses
This could be a nice video rental for a guys poker night. In short, it is the story of three guys who have been friends since high school. They all commiserate how miserable their lives are because of their bosses. One jokes "We should kill them". That lead to all kinds of hilarity. Some of the stuff was very funny. Some not so much. I enjoyed that I got to see one of the cute guys in the movie with his pants down. Very nice... hehehe
I give this movie 2 bear paws. You can rent this one. There isn't any need to see it on the big screen.
Winnie the Pooh
I wanted to see this movie since I am a big WtP fan. It was ADORABLE!! I really enjoyed letting myself be a kid again for seventy minutes. The songs are cute. The story line is funny and cute. And the most important part -- Pooh gets honey at the end! Woohooo!
I give this movie 3 bear paws for cuteness and a wonderful time. You can rent this one. No need to see it on the big screen.
Other Stuff
I took it easy yesterday afternoon. I slept a lot trying to rest my body so the infection in my belly would heal. I used the hot compresses a few times. I took my meds. I also got laundry done
I visited the Methodist church a few blocks from my house yesterday morning. It was very nice. I know God wanted me to be there because of the sermon. Like the Sunday devotional talked about, no church is perfect. If it was, then it would no longer be perfect after I stepped in the doors! ;-p I think I might visit the Methodist church in Worthington next Sunday (if I go to church). I am working the buses late for the bear run. I may not get my tired butt out of bed in time!
I need to study my Emmaus Walk stuff. I need to start preparing myself for the training and the walk. I know God wants me to do this beyond a shadow of a doubt. Other stuff I am still unsure of.
Life is an adventure. I have pushed myself in so many ways, but there are some areas in my life that I need to address. I sometimes think that I focus on some unimportant things so I don't have time to think about the very, very important things. I will think more about this with the understanding that I will take it easy on myself. Self-awareness can be a damaging thing if it impedes a healthy self-esteem.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
I hate to admit it, but I am sometimes a "tit for tat" kind of person. You hurt me. I hurt you right back. It is only human nature. I am only human.
The devotional today talks about how we should act when we are mocked or criticized because of our faith. It should not be a tit for tat response! No way! Look to our heavenly Father before responding, if you respond at all. Say a little prayer. Count to ten (I sometimes have to count to a thousand!). Remember the other person is also a creation of God, even though it sure seems like s/he is from the devil! hehehe
Lord, I want to look to you in all situations so I can best show your love. It is so difficult!
Movie Monday
I got to see three movies this week. It was a good week. hehehe
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 2
I felt like the final installment followed the book pretty well. I think the big complaint was that the last, very long, book was a downer! The story of Harry Potter came to a close. It was the end of an era for many people in their teens and early 20s who grew up with the books and movies.
I thought the special effects were great and not over done. I saw it in 2D, so I don't know about the 3D effects in the other versions. The ending battle was almost too much for me. I didn't like seeing Hogwarts in ruins. Oh well. My favorite part was when Mrs Weasley kills Beatrice. You go, girl!
I give this one three bear paws. See it at the theater on the big screen.
Horrible Bosses
This could be a nice video rental for a guys poker night. In short, it is the story of three guys who have been friends since high school. They all commiserate how miserable their lives are because of their bosses. One jokes "We should kill them". That lead to all kinds of hilarity. Some of the stuff was very funny. Some not so much. I enjoyed that I got to see one of the cute guys in the movie with his pants down. Very nice... hehehe
I give this movie 2 bear paws. You can rent this one. There isn't any need to see it on the big screen.
Winnie the Pooh
I wanted to see this movie since I am a big WtP fan. It was ADORABLE!! I really enjoyed letting myself be a kid again for seventy minutes. The songs are cute. The story line is funny and cute. And the most important part -- Pooh gets honey at the end! Woohooo!
I give this movie 3 bear paws for cuteness and a wonderful time. You can rent this one. No need to see it on the big screen.
Other Stuff
I took it easy yesterday afternoon. I slept a lot trying to rest my body so the infection in my belly would heal. I used the hot compresses a few times. I took my meds. I also got laundry done
I visited the Methodist church a few blocks from my house yesterday morning. It was very nice. I know God wanted me to be there because of the sermon. Like the Sunday devotional talked about, no church is perfect. If it was, then it would no longer be perfect after I stepped in the doors! ;-p I think I might visit the Methodist church in Worthington next Sunday (if I go to church). I am working the buses late for the bear run. I may not get my tired butt out of bed in time!
I need to study my Emmaus Walk stuff. I need to start preparing myself for the training and the walk. I know God wants me to do this beyond a shadow of a doubt. Other stuff I am still unsure of.
Life is an adventure. I have pushed myself in so many ways, but there are some areas in my life that I need to address. I sometimes think that I focus on some unimportant things so I don't have time to think about the very, very important things. I will think more about this with the understanding that I will take it easy on myself. Self-awareness can be a damaging thing if it impedes a healthy self-esteem.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Our Daily Bread
Is this for real? I have been trying to figure out "what's next?" in my life. I have no freakin' clue at this point. My job is up in the air. No relationship to speak of. I feel stale and out of place at church (except for a few very close friends). Is this time for a change of where I go or time for a change in me?
I plan to attend a different church this morning. After taking my shower and getting dressed, I read today's devotional. Is this for real? It talks about no church is perfect and everyone can have times when their church doesn't feel right. The devotional talks about being open to God's leading since every church has its advantages and disadvantages. If I decide to keep looking, I will keep that in mind.
Lord, I want to be open to your leading. Please help me discern what you want me to do.
Psalm Sunday
Psalm 16 spoke to me more than the ones we have reviewed so far. Here it is:
Psalm 16
1 Keep me safe, my God,
for in you I take refuge.
2 I say to the LORD, “You are my Lord;
apart from you I have no good thing.”
3 I say of the holy people who are in the land,
“They are the noble ones in whom is all my delight.”
4 Those who run after other gods will suffer more and more.
I will not pour out libations of blood to such gods
or take up their names on my lips.
5 LORD, you alone are my portion and my cup;
you make my lot secure.
6 The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places;
surely I have a delightful inheritance.
7 I will praise the LORD, who counsels me;
even at night my heart instructs me.
8 I keep my eyes always on the LORD.
With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.
9 Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices;
my body also will rest secure,
10 because you will not abandon me to the realm of the dead,
nor will you let your faithful one see decay.
11 You make known to me the path of life;
you will fill me with joy in your presence,
with eternal pleasures at your right hand.
I like the verse 9. I think we all feel like God has deserted us at times. He has not. He has not moved. We are the ones who moved away from him!
Follow that up with the last part of verse 8 "I will not be shaken". I don't know about you, but I have times in my life where I feel shaken and stirred! hehehe God will be there for us. We need to lift our voices and our hearts in praise during these times. Praise God!
Other Stuff
I was sort of busy yesterday. I started working on laundry. I saw two movies (the reviews will be in tomorrow's post). I had a quick lunch at my favorite restaurant, J Alexanders. I went to Costco, Target and Kroger. I ended my day at the Urgent Care and CVS. Sigh... The site where my testosterone pellets were installed got infected. This happens sometimes. The doctor gave me a cream and some antibiotics. This, too, shall pass.
My legs are looking better as I am recovering from a reaction to the psoriasis medicine the dermatologist gave me. I might be able to wear shorts again next year.... Just kidding. The terrible red patches are starting to fade. My skin is still stained from the medicine. It is almost like a sunless tanning cream kind of stain.
God keeps speaking to me. I am doing my best to listen and obey. There was a ministry opportunity that I planned to drop out of. I received the message from God last night that I should not do that. I will hang in there. There are some other things I need to think and pray about. My life needs to change. I want it to change the right way according to what God wants me to do.
Please understand, if you haven't figured it out by now, that I am an intense person at times. Doing the right thing and making the most out of life are important to me. I am trying not to try so hard... hehehe I will be patient. I will follow God even though I don't understand and I don't see where the road is leading. I will trust him even thought I seem lost, lonely and in the shadow of death. I can say those words from my heart now and not just from my mind.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Is this for real? I have been trying to figure out "what's next?" in my life. I have no freakin' clue at this point. My job is up in the air. No relationship to speak of. I feel stale and out of place at church (except for a few very close friends). Is this time for a change of where I go or time for a change in me?
I plan to attend a different church this morning. After taking my shower and getting dressed, I read today's devotional. Is this for real? It talks about no church is perfect and everyone can have times when their church doesn't feel right. The devotional talks about being open to God's leading since every church has its advantages and disadvantages. If I decide to keep looking, I will keep that in mind.
Lord, I want to be open to your leading. Please help me discern what you want me to do.
Psalm Sunday
Psalm 16 spoke to me more than the ones we have reviewed so far. Here it is:
Psalm 16
1 Keep me safe, my God,
for in you I take refuge.
2 I say to the LORD, “You are my Lord;
apart from you I have no good thing.”
3 I say of the holy people who are in the land,
“They are the noble ones in whom is all my delight.”
4 Those who run after other gods will suffer more and more.
I will not pour out libations of blood to such gods
or take up their names on my lips.
5 LORD, you alone are my portion and my cup;
you make my lot secure.
6 The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places;
surely I have a delightful inheritance.
7 I will praise the LORD, who counsels me;
even at night my heart instructs me.
8 I keep my eyes always on the LORD.
With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.
9 Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices;
my body also will rest secure,
10 because you will not abandon me to the realm of the dead,
nor will you let your faithful one see decay.
11 You make known to me the path of life;
you will fill me with joy in your presence,
with eternal pleasures at your right hand.
I like the verse 9. I think we all feel like God has deserted us at times. He has not. He has not moved. We are the ones who moved away from him!
Follow that up with the last part of verse 8 "I will not be shaken". I don't know about you, but I have times in my life where I feel shaken and stirred! hehehe God will be there for us. We need to lift our voices and our hearts in praise during these times. Praise God!
Other Stuff
I was sort of busy yesterday. I started working on laundry. I saw two movies (the reviews will be in tomorrow's post). I had a quick lunch at my favorite restaurant, J Alexanders. I went to Costco, Target and Kroger. I ended my day at the Urgent Care and CVS. Sigh... The site where my testosterone pellets were installed got infected. This happens sometimes. The doctor gave me a cream and some antibiotics. This, too, shall pass.
My legs are looking better as I am recovering from a reaction to the psoriasis medicine the dermatologist gave me. I might be able to wear shorts again next year.... Just kidding. The terrible red patches are starting to fade. My skin is still stained from the medicine. It is almost like a sunless tanning cream kind of stain.
God keeps speaking to me. I am doing my best to listen and obey. There was a ministry opportunity that I planned to drop out of. I received the message from God last night that I should not do that. I will hang in there. There are some other things I need to think and pray about. My life needs to change. I want it to change the right way according to what God wants me to do.
Please understand, if you haven't figured it out by now, that I am an intense person at times. Doing the right thing and making the most out of life are important to me. I am trying not to try so hard... hehehe I will be patient. I will follow God even though I don't understand and I don't see where the road is leading. I will trust him even thought I seem lost, lonely and in the shadow of death. I can say those words from my heart now and not just from my mind.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Saturday, July 16, 2011
I really hate this...
Our Daily Bread
Yes, I am only human. I have had a hard time this week with a few things in my life. Before you say 'oh what a downer you are, Duane", I want to say "Praise God!" for being patient with me and for showing me the way.
A perfect example is the devotional today. It is sooooo easy to let sins pile up like dirty laundry. Unfortunately, there is not a Chinese laundry for sins! hehehe There is only one place to go -- Jesus Christ. One stop shopping! The forgiveness superstore! ha! All joking aside, I wrote a little bit about this the other day. It is sometimes difficult to see the short-term effects of our sin. We let one slip in, then another, then another. They start compounding and so do the ramifications of our sins.
The devotional used scriptures from Ephesus where Paul told them not to act like the Gentiles who live only for themselves. Live by the Spirit of God letting his power flow through you. A friend of mine told me recently "maybe you are trying to hard. maybe you should stop trying and let God do things THROUGH you..." I was like, DOH! What do you think I have been TRYING to do... I really didn't get it at the time. I understand a little bit more now.
Lord, I ask you to flow through me, as unworthy vessel as I am. I don't know of any other way to live my life.
Simply Saturday
So there are times in your life when you want to pull back from everything you are doing and everyone in your life. I don't have these times often, but I am having one this week. There is a part of me that wants to drop out of church and all of those activities, back away from non-church friends and spend some time alone. The problem with this is the timing. There are some important things in the works that I think I am supposed to do that are in the planning stages right now. If I back away from things, I will miss out on possibly accomplishing some very important things in my life. Things such as being on team for an Emmaus walk and leading some small groups at church.
I am not feeling worthy of doing any of these things. I don't feel like I have much to contribute to the lives of my friends or family. I feel like an empty well. Is that possibly what the devotional today was talking about? We have to be sensitive to God to know when to empty ourselves of trash so we can fulfill our purpose? Today, I have no freakin' clue. ;-(
The root cause of this "funk" is a situation in my life that I have been dealing with for a few years now. I have never been soooooo wrong about something so important in my life. I have never acted in such bizarre ways about something so important in my life. I can't hardly stand to think about it some days. I don't mind admitting that I am wrong, but there seems to be signs that I am not wrong. I am trying not to read into every little thing to rationalize my thoughts and feelings.
Through this experience, God is teaching me how to better understand and empathize with others. I have not been particularly good about that in my life. Most things have always come easy for me. I thank God for that. I also thank him for letting me learn how I can better serve others for Him.
The bottom line is: I will be fine. I will push forward. Turning back is not really an option. I will do my best to follow the road that God put before me even though I have no idea where it is going. God, please just throw me a bone sometimes when my faith weakens...
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Yes, I am only human. I have had a hard time this week with a few things in my life. Before you say 'oh what a downer you are, Duane", I want to say "Praise God!" for being patient with me and for showing me the way.
A perfect example is the devotional today. It is sooooo easy to let sins pile up like dirty laundry. Unfortunately, there is not a Chinese laundry for sins! hehehe There is only one place to go -- Jesus Christ. One stop shopping! The forgiveness superstore! ha! All joking aside, I wrote a little bit about this the other day. It is sometimes difficult to see the short-term effects of our sin. We let one slip in, then another, then another. They start compounding and so do the ramifications of our sins.
The devotional used scriptures from Ephesus where Paul told them not to act like the Gentiles who live only for themselves. Live by the Spirit of God letting his power flow through you. A friend of mine told me recently "maybe you are trying to hard. maybe you should stop trying and let God do things THROUGH you..." I was like, DOH! What do you think I have been TRYING to do... I really didn't get it at the time. I understand a little bit more now.
Lord, I ask you to flow through me, as unworthy vessel as I am. I don't know of any other way to live my life.
Simply Saturday
So there are times in your life when you want to pull back from everything you are doing and everyone in your life. I don't have these times often, but I am having one this week. There is a part of me that wants to drop out of church and all of those activities, back away from non-church friends and spend some time alone. The problem with this is the timing. There are some important things in the works that I think I am supposed to do that are in the planning stages right now. If I back away from things, I will miss out on possibly accomplishing some very important things in my life. Things such as being on team for an Emmaus walk and leading some small groups at church.
I am not feeling worthy of doing any of these things. I don't feel like I have much to contribute to the lives of my friends or family. I feel like an empty well. Is that possibly what the devotional today was talking about? We have to be sensitive to God to know when to empty ourselves of trash so we can fulfill our purpose? Today, I have no freakin' clue. ;-(
The root cause of this "funk" is a situation in my life that I have been dealing with for a few years now. I have never been soooooo wrong about something so important in my life. I have never acted in such bizarre ways about something so important in my life. I can't hardly stand to think about it some days. I don't mind admitting that I am wrong, but there seems to be signs that I am not wrong. I am trying not to read into every little thing to rationalize my thoughts and feelings.
Wait, wasn't I praising God at the beginning of this post? Yes, I was because he sent me the sign I asked for in the devotional today. I need to push forward regardless of the way I feel. I need to push forward regardless if some things in my life aren't going the way I want. I need to push forward because he gave me the inner strength AND the touch of the Holy Spirit to continue my spiritual and life journeys on the right track.
Through this experience, God is teaching me how to better understand and empathize with others. I have not been particularly good about that in my life. Most things have always come easy for me. I thank God for that. I also thank him for letting me learn how I can better serve others for Him.
The bottom line is: I will be fine. I will push forward. Turning back is not really an option. I will do my best to follow the road that God put before me even though I have no idea where it is going. God, please just throw me a bone sometimes when my faith weakens...
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Friday, July 15, 2011
Obedience vs disobedience...
Our Daily Bread
I questioned how God works a lot the past few years. Are we supposed to be little robots that march around following God's exact will not having a mind of our own? Is God so unforgiving that doing any little wrong thing angers him and causes repercussions? What can't I have what I want? hehehe
Here is what I figured out (at least how things work in my own little mind). There are some sins in our lives that are like a child touching a flame -- you get burned and learn immediately not to do that. There are some things in life that you can do wrong and not see the repercussions until many years later. My personal example is the way I did not manage my diabetes. I have complications from that sin today.
God does not expect us to be little robots. His desire for us is to do the best we can to make good decisions according to the rules and laws he gave us. These things are what is best for us -- best for our life, our health, our minds and our hearts. I know how I am. I don't always make the best choices. That is where God's grace comes in. He forgives us when we repent. God knows we are only human. ;-)
Lord, thank you for showing me what is best for me in my life. I ask for wisdom to always identify those things.
Foodie Friday
Here is a simple recipe for a great entree -- roast pork loin with apple butter.
2 or 3 pound pork loin
1 jar apple butter
salt and pepper
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Place the pork loin in a roaster. Add salt and pepper. Pour the apple butter over the pork loin. Add a 1/2 cup of water to the bottom of the roaster. Cover and bake for 1 hour (internal temperature should be at least 165 degrees). You may need to add some more water during the baking process. Slice and serve with your favorite veggies.
Other Stuff
I didn't get to see the Harry Potter movie last night. I had too many things going on Friday. My buddy has a last minute conflict as well. I plan to see the movie after work today. I watched the Book 7 - Part 1 movie last night so I remember where things left off!
I have an appointment with my endocrinologist this morning. I will let you know how that goes.
Looking forward to a relaxing weekend.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
I questioned how God works a lot the past few years. Are we supposed to be little robots that march around following God's exact will not having a mind of our own? Is God so unforgiving that doing any little wrong thing angers him and causes repercussions? What can't I have what I want? hehehe
Here is what I figured out (at least how things work in my own little mind). There are some sins in our lives that are like a child touching a flame -- you get burned and learn immediately not to do that. There are some things in life that you can do wrong and not see the repercussions until many years later. My personal example is the way I did not manage my diabetes. I have complications from that sin today.
God does not expect us to be little robots. His desire for us is to do the best we can to make good decisions according to the rules and laws he gave us. These things are what is best for us -- best for our life, our health, our minds and our hearts. I know how I am. I don't always make the best choices. That is where God's grace comes in. He forgives us when we repent. God knows we are only human. ;-)
Lord, thank you for showing me what is best for me in my life. I ask for wisdom to always identify those things.
Foodie Friday
Here is a simple recipe for a great entree -- roast pork loin with apple butter.
2 or 3 pound pork loin
1 jar apple butter
salt and pepper
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Place the pork loin in a roaster. Add salt and pepper. Pour the apple butter over the pork loin. Add a 1/2 cup of water to the bottom of the roaster. Cover and bake for 1 hour (internal temperature should be at least 165 degrees). You may need to add some more water during the baking process. Slice and serve with your favorite veggies.
Other Stuff
I didn't get to see the Harry Potter movie last night. I had too many things going on Friday. My buddy has a last minute conflict as well. I plan to see the movie after work today. I watched the Book 7 - Part 1 movie last night so I remember where things left off!
I have an appointment with my endocrinologist this morning. I will let you know how that goes.
Looking forward to a relaxing weekend.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Xray vision...
Our Daily Bread
I remember reading the ads in the back of comic books when I was a kid. There were ads for all these amazing products, one of which was x-ray glasses! Wow! How cool would that be?!? Of course, while my friends thought about seeing under womens' clothing, I was thinking of how I would see under mens' clothing!
Looking at this concept in a serious manner means that we shouldn't rely on stereotypes when we deal with folks. It is soooooo easy to do! Take the time. Take each person for who they are. It is worth it!
Lord, I want to treat each person like your valued creation.
Technology Thursday
Boring, boring, boring is the technology front. The major tech companies are trying to catch up to Apple on all fronts. The phone companies are trying to reign in data usage by elminating unlimited data plans. Even the hackers are bored!
I hope something changes soon. Bored, bored, bored.
Other Stuff
I had a fun evening last night. I actually went to the Bear happy hour at Exile after work. I met some new friends and saw some old ones. After that, I went to the Ohio Theater for the CAPA Summer Movie presentation of Airplane! How cool! I had a blast watching one of my favorite movies on the big screen again. The only problem was that I kept laughing ahead of the punch lines! Oh well.
Not feeling great. I doubt that I will go to the Harry Potter movies tonight. If I can't get a refund, I will see if I can exchange the tickets or something. Oh well. Going to take it easy this weekend.
Hang in there, my friends. I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
I remember reading the ads in the back of comic books when I was a kid. There were ads for all these amazing products, one of which was x-ray glasses! Wow! How cool would that be?!? Of course, while my friends thought about seeing under womens' clothing, I was thinking of how I would see under mens' clothing!
Looking at this concept in a serious manner means that we shouldn't rely on stereotypes when we deal with folks. It is soooooo easy to do! Take the time. Take each person for who they are. It is worth it!
Lord, I want to treat each person like your valued creation.
Technology Thursday
Boring, boring, boring is the technology front. The major tech companies are trying to catch up to Apple on all fronts. The phone companies are trying to reign in data usage by elminating unlimited data plans. Even the hackers are bored!
I hope something changes soon. Bored, bored, bored.
Other Stuff
I had a fun evening last night. I actually went to the Bear happy hour at Exile after work. I met some new friends and saw some old ones. After that, I went to the Ohio Theater for the CAPA Summer Movie presentation of Airplane! How cool! I had a blast watching one of my favorite movies on the big screen again. The only problem was that I kept laughing ahead of the punch lines! Oh well.
Not feeling great. I doubt that I will go to the Harry Potter movies tonight. If I can't get a refund, I will see if I can exchange the tickets or something. Oh well. Going to take it easy this weekend.
Hang in there, my friends. I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
80 is the new 60...
Our Daily Bread
I have thought about getting older a lot the past few years since experiencing some health issues and feeling much older than my 51 years. Yikes! I joked after my 50th birthday that I wanted the second HALF of my life to be better than the first half! You can read more about my 50s below.
God can use us at any age if we just let him. He always has a plan for us. Useful things for us to do. Thinking outside of ourselves is the key. ;-)
Lord, I want to serve you all of my days.
Witness Wednesday
I mentioned last week about the last part of my 40s. I had lots of challenges, but also had a major change in my life -- I started attending church again. I continued to carry through with that commitment to spiritual growth in my 50s. I started with taking the Walk to Emmaus, an intense church retreat weekend. I continued by being involved in small groups at church. God told me this year that I cannot remain a spectator. I need to contribute so I offered to create and lead some small groups. I am also going to be an assistant table leader on an Emmaus Walk this Fall. I am very excited about these things.
I have also been traveling a LOT. I have been to Hawaii, Los Angeles, San Diego, Seattle, San Francisco, St Louis, Orlando, New York City, Chicago, Louisville and Nashville the past two years. My arms are tired from so much flying! hehehe
Life is good. Would it be better if I had someone to share it with? In some ways, yes. In some ways, maybe not. I know that I want the next relationship to be my last. I want this one have God in the center of it. I never really understood that concept with my ex.
Other Stuff
I had a quiet evening at home last night. I did a little cleaning. Rested a little. I have been exercising a lot since last Wednesday when I found out that my eyes are healed (for now). The doctor removed my activity restrictions. Woohooo! I am still getting used to that. There have only been a few months out of the last three years that I haven't been under activity restrictions! Yikes!
I think I am going to see the movie Airplane! tonight at the Ohio. CAPA has a summer movie series complete with one heck of a theater organ to listen to. Very cool. I love that movie. I am sure I will enjoy the evening.
Please say a little prayer for me. Some medicine the dermatologist gave me sort of burned my skin. I thought I used it according to the instructions, but apparently I am very sensitive to it. I have red splotches all around my psoriasis spots, some quite large. Heavy sigh. And right in the middle of bathing suit season! Yikes! I am self-conscious about my psoriasis any way. This does not help.
Hang in there, my friends. I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
I have thought about getting older a lot the past few years since experiencing some health issues and feeling much older than my 51 years. Yikes! I joked after my 50th birthday that I wanted the second HALF of my life to be better than the first half! You can read more about my 50s below.
God can use us at any age if we just let him. He always has a plan for us. Useful things for us to do. Thinking outside of ourselves is the key. ;-)
Lord, I want to serve you all of my days.
Witness Wednesday
I mentioned last week about the last part of my 40s. I had lots of challenges, but also had a major change in my life -- I started attending church again. I continued to carry through with that commitment to spiritual growth in my 50s. I started with taking the Walk to Emmaus, an intense church retreat weekend. I continued by being involved in small groups at church. God told me this year that I cannot remain a spectator. I need to contribute so I offered to create and lead some small groups. I am also going to be an assistant table leader on an Emmaus Walk this Fall. I am very excited about these things.
I have also been traveling a LOT. I have been to Hawaii, Los Angeles, San Diego, Seattle, San Francisco, St Louis, Orlando, New York City, Chicago, Louisville and Nashville the past two years. My arms are tired from so much flying! hehehe
Life is good. Would it be better if I had someone to share it with? In some ways, yes. In some ways, maybe not. I know that I want the next relationship to be my last. I want this one have God in the center of it. I never really understood that concept with my ex.
Other Stuff
I had a quiet evening at home last night. I did a little cleaning. Rested a little. I have been exercising a lot since last Wednesday when I found out that my eyes are healed (for now). The doctor removed my activity restrictions. Woohooo! I am still getting used to that. There have only been a few months out of the last three years that I haven't been under activity restrictions! Yikes!
I think I am going to see the movie Airplane! tonight at the Ohio. CAPA has a summer movie series complete with one heck of a theater organ to listen to. Very cool. I love that movie. I am sure I will enjoy the evening.
Please say a little prayer for me. Some medicine the dermatologist gave me sort of burned my skin. I thought I used it according to the instructions, but apparently I am very sensitive to it. I have red splotches all around my psoriasis spots, some quite large. Heavy sigh. And right in the middle of bathing suit season! Yikes! I am self-conscious about my psoriasis any way. This does not help.
Hang in there, my friends. I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Don't have much to write about this one...
Our Daily Bread
The devotional today talks about women dressing appropriately. I guess that can go for guys as well. Here is my story...
I have wanted a tattoo for many years. I wasn't happy with the idea of having a barbed wire or other band around my arm. That was too common and really didn't mean much to me. I realized today that a tattoo like that would draw attention to me. I recently figured out how I can fulfill my dream of getting a tattoo and still have it mean something. I found a tattoo design that represents the Holy Spirit for one arm. I want a lamp that represents the Word of God for my other arm. Very cool designs in my head. I hope I can communicate them to the tattoo artist. I will post pictures when I actually have them done. I want the tattoos to draw attention to my relationship to God, not just me. ;-)
Lord, I want everything in my life to point to you.
Teaching Tuesday
I learned a lot the past few months about discerning God's will. About admitting when I was complete wrong about the path I was on. About how to correct that mistake by humbly dealing with the situation in hopes of preventing any collateral damage. I am happy to say that the pain of going through that has been worth it. I reconciled a situation that has tortured me that past few years. God answered my prayer. It was not in the way that I thought I wanted, but he answered it just the same. I am truly excited about the road ahead even though I don't know where it is going. I feel free to get out of this traffic jam in my life and go the speed limit!
God is so good. Is there some speed bump that is keeping you from moving forward in your life? Think about it. Pray about it. Flee to God. He will lead you through it. He did it for me.
Other Stuff
I had dinner and ice cream with my hero last night. We had such a good time. It is wonderful to have close friends to talk to and laugh with. God is so good.
Work is weird right now. Not sure what is going on. I will post more as I learn more.
I am looking forward to seeing Part 2 of the last Harry Potter movie. Sigh. I love those books and movies! I am seeing both Part 1 and Part 2 on Thursday night with a buddy of mine. Should be a fun evening.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
The devotional today talks about women dressing appropriately. I guess that can go for guys as well. Here is my story...
I have wanted a tattoo for many years. I wasn't happy with the idea of having a barbed wire or other band around my arm. That was too common and really didn't mean much to me. I realized today that a tattoo like that would draw attention to me. I recently figured out how I can fulfill my dream of getting a tattoo and still have it mean something. I found a tattoo design that represents the Holy Spirit for one arm. I want a lamp that represents the Word of God for my other arm. Very cool designs in my head. I hope I can communicate them to the tattoo artist. I will post pictures when I actually have them done. I want the tattoos to draw attention to my relationship to God, not just me. ;-)
Lord, I want everything in my life to point to you.
Teaching Tuesday
I learned a lot the past few months about discerning God's will. About admitting when I was complete wrong about the path I was on. About how to correct that mistake by humbly dealing with the situation in hopes of preventing any collateral damage. I am happy to say that the pain of going through that has been worth it. I reconciled a situation that has tortured me that past few years. God answered my prayer. It was not in the way that I thought I wanted, but he answered it just the same. I am truly excited about the road ahead even though I don't know where it is going. I feel free to get out of this traffic jam in my life and go the speed limit!
God is so good. Is there some speed bump that is keeping you from moving forward in your life? Think about it. Pray about it. Flee to God. He will lead you through it. He did it for me.
Other Stuff
I had dinner and ice cream with my hero last night. We had such a good time. It is wonderful to have close friends to talk to and laugh with. God is so good.
Work is weird right now. Not sure what is going on. I will post more as I learn more.
I am looking forward to seeing Part 2 of the last Harry Potter movie. Sigh. I love those books and movies! I am seeing both Part 1 and Part 2 on Thursday night with a buddy of mine. Should be a fun evening.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Monday, July 11, 2011
You have to be critical to be a critic...
Our Daily Bread
I see a lot of movies. My friends ask me about my opinion of many of them. I am usually pretty easy on them, looking for the good things about the movies. I write my opinions on Monday like the one below. Being a critic requires you (and entitles you) to be critical. How far should that go in your life?
The author of devotional talked about being critical in his role of being an editor. We have to be careful not to be critical in all phases of our lives especially when it comes to being critical of others. I have a problem with this when looking at the people I care about the most. I don't understand why they keep doing the stuff that harms them. Why they retain unhealthy behaviors. Why they can't move on.
As the Michael Jackson song says, "I'm looking at the man in the mirror". I need to start with me. I need to love others as they are, where they are in their journey. I need to love myself for God's sake. I need to love them for God's sake. Yes, being critical is a difficult habit to break when you are a fixer. ;-p
Lord, I want to love and be loved for your sake.
Movie Monday
I saw the movie The Zookeeper this weekend. How cute! Yes, there are lots of talking animals like the Dr Dolittle movies. The scenarios are unrealistic and impossible, but the concept of the movie where a caring, loving man (the zookeeper played by Kevin James) is willing to do anything to "get his girl". The relationship advice from the animals is hilarious. The personalities behind the animals are priceless. There are some very, very funny scenes. There is also some very touching scenes that you shouldn't miss.
I give this one two bear paws, but I think you will like it if you can give it a chance.
Other Stuff
I had a relaxing afternoon just hanging around the house after the movie. I got my exercise in for the day as I watched a movie on my iPad while cycling for 32 minutes. That is a new record for me! My legs are feeling it that is for sure!
I am looking forward to a low key week. I may start working on painting the basement. I may work on the landscaping if it is not too hot. I will definitely go to the gym and/or workout a few times this week. Weight loss here I come!
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
I see a lot of movies. My friends ask me about my opinion of many of them. I am usually pretty easy on them, looking for the good things about the movies. I write my opinions on Monday like the one below. Being a critic requires you (and entitles you) to be critical. How far should that go in your life?
The author of devotional talked about being critical in his role of being an editor. We have to be careful not to be critical in all phases of our lives especially when it comes to being critical of others. I have a problem with this when looking at the people I care about the most. I don't understand why they keep doing the stuff that harms them. Why they retain unhealthy behaviors. Why they can't move on.
As the Michael Jackson song says, "I'm looking at the man in the mirror". I need to start with me. I need to love others as they are, where they are in their journey. I need to love myself for God's sake. I need to love them for God's sake. Yes, being critical is a difficult habit to break when you are a fixer. ;-p
Lord, I want to love and be loved for your sake.
Movie Monday
I saw the movie The Zookeeper this weekend. How cute! Yes, there are lots of talking animals like the Dr Dolittle movies. The scenarios are unrealistic and impossible, but the concept of the movie where a caring, loving man (the zookeeper played by Kevin James) is willing to do anything to "get his girl". The relationship advice from the animals is hilarious. The personalities behind the animals are priceless. There are some very, very funny scenes. There is also some very touching scenes that you shouldn't miss.
I give this one two bear paws, but I think you will like it if you can give it a chance.
Other Stuff
I had a relaxing afternoon just hanging around the house after the movie. I got my exercise in for the day as I watched a movie on my iPad while cycling for 32 minutes. That is a new record for me! My legs are feeling it that is for sure!
I am looking forward to a low key week. I may start working on painting the basement. I may work on the landscaping if it is not too hot. I will definitely go to the gym and/or workout a few times this week. Weight loss here I come!
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Sunday, July 10, 2011
I can do this...
Our Daily Bread
How many times in our lives have we said to God: I got this. I can handle it on my own! I know I said it too many times. Like I often say, this devotional is very timely for me. There is a situation in my life that I need to deal with. I have been planning to handle it on my own, which would have been disastrous on many levels.
The new plan is to turn it over to God. To stop trying so hard. To let go and let God work in this situation. Yes, I have my plans. They are crap. God has much better ones in mind.
Lord, I want to follow your plans and not mine. Mine suck!
Psalm Sunday
Psalm 15 is the psalm for today. I love the actions he listed for those who can be in God's holy place. Remember that very few folks could access the holy place during that period. David was talking about the bigger picture, not the actual temple where the holy place was located.
Psalm 15
A psalm of David.
1 LORD, who may dwell in your sacred tent?
Who may live on your holy mountain?
2 The one whose walk is blameless,
who does what is righteous,
who speaks the truth from their heart;
3 whose tongue utters no slander,
who does no wrong to a neighbor,
and casts no slur on others;
4 who despises a vile person
but honors those who fear the LORD;
who keeps an oath even when it hurts,
and does not change their mind;
5 who lends money to the poor without interest;
who does not accept a bribe against the innocent.
Whoever does these things
will never be shaken.
Other Stuff
I had a great time at an annual party last night. Thanks, guys! There was a huge crowd. Lots of different kinds of people. I met a lot of new folks. Got reacquainted with lots of old acquaintances. Very cool.
Not sure what is on the schedule for today. I want to see the movie Zookeeper. Not sure what else I will do besides church. I want to get a walk or some other kind of exercise in.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
How many times in our lives have we said to God: I got this. I can handle it on my own! I know I said it too many times. Like I often say, this devotional is very timely for me. There is a situation in my life that I need to deal with. I have been planning to handle it on my own, which would have been disastrous on many levels.
The new plan is to turn it over to God. To stop trying so hard. To let go and let God work in this situation. Yes, I have my plans. They are crap. God has much better ones in mind.
Lord, I want to follow your plans and not mine. Mine suck!
Psalm Sunday
Psalm 15 is the psalm for today. I love the actions he listed for those who can be in God's holy place. Remember that very few folks could access the holy place during that period. David was talking about the bigger picture, not the actual temple where the holy place was located.
Psalm 15
A psalm of David.
1 LORD, who may dwell in your sacred tent?
Who may live on your holy mountain?
2 The one whose walk is blameless,
who does what is righteous,
who speaks the truth from their heart;
3 whose tongue utters no slander,
who does no wrong to a neighbor,
and casts no slur on others;
4 who despises a vile person
but honors those who fear the LORD;
who keeps an oath even when it hurts,
and does not change their mind;
5 who lends money to the poor without interest;
who does not accept a bribe against the innocent.
Whoever does these things
will never be shaken.
Other Stuff
I had a great time at an annual party last night. Thanks, guys! There was a huge crowd. Lots of different kinds of people. I met a lot of new folks. Got reacquainted with lots of old acquaintances. Very cool.
Not sure what is on the schedule for today. I want to see the movie Zookeeper. Not sure what else I will do besides church. I want to get a walk or some other kind of exercise in.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Saturday, July 9, 2011
Reunion
Our Daily Bread
The devotional today is about a reunion of caregivers and the receivers of that care. It sounded so cool! The doctors, nurses and other staff that worked in the neonatal unit of a childrens' hospital reunited with their patients, some of whom were teenagers now. It was great for them to see the lives they touched!
I wondered about the lives I have touched and exactly how I touched them. ;-p Was it good or bad? What will people say about me after I am gone? My prayer is that I leave a legacy of love and peace.
Lord, I want to touch others for you in whatever way I can.
Simply Saturday
I had a great time with my walking buddy and her husband last night. She asked me to go to Easton with her to do some shopping and hang out. I didn't realize until later that she had some things on her mind and needed to get away for a few hours. We laughed and talked like we usually do when we walk. We had a nice supper at Brio. The food was very good, as usual.
I picked up a few things for the kitchen. I found them on sale at Crate and Barrel and at William-Sonoma. Very cool.
I have a busy day of errands today. Laundry to fold. Bills to pay. Parts to order. Mow the lawn. I will do all of that and still try to get some rest. I had a busy week!
No big thoughts this week. I am still thinking about some of the things that my counselor told me on Thursday. I will have to let those things brew for a while! hehehe
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
The devotional today is about a reunion of caregivers and the receivers of that care. It sounded so cool! The doctors, nurses and other staff that worked in the neonatal unit of a childrens' hospital reunited with their patients, some of whom were teenagers now. It was great for them to see the lives they touched!
I wondered about the lives I have touched and exactly how I touched them. ;-p Was it good or bad? What will people say about me after I am gone? My prayer is that I leave a legacy of love and peace.
Lord, I want to touch others for you in whatever way I can.
Simply Saturday
I had a great time with my walking buddy and her husband last night. She asked me to go to Easton with her to do some shopping and hang out. I didn't realize until later that she had some things on her mind and needed to get away for a few hours. We laughed and talked like we usually do when we walk. We had a nice supper at Brio. The food was very good, as usual.
I picked up a few things for the kitchen. I found them on sale at Crate and Barrel and at William-Sonoma. Very cool.
I have a busy day of errands today. Laundry to fold. Bills to pay. Parts to order. Mow the lawn. I will do all of that and still try to get some rest. I had a busy week!
No big thoughts this week. I am still thinking about some of the things that my counselor told me on Thursday. I will have to let those things brew for a while! hehehe
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Friday, July 8, 2011
I would love to make this vow...
Our Daily Bread
I really liked the devotional today. Marriage has been on m mind a lot lately with the passing of the same sex marriage law in New York. Woohooooo! I have two things to write about this topic.
First, it is difficult to know when same sex marriage will be legal in the state of Ohio. I don't entirely disagree with the decision being made by each state instead of the federal government. I don't want anyone to scream about "special rights" since marriage law is usually controlled by the states now. The problem with not having a federal law is that the state-sanctioned marriages may not hold up to the same rules as the federal laws for taxes, Social Security, etc. How is that going to work? Regardless of these details, I look forward to the day I can legally say "I do" and have the marriage recognized in the US.
Second, the other part of the equation (and maybe the more difficult part!) is finding the right man. hehehe God promised me the man meant for me in my dreams, visions and prayers. I am doing my best to put myself in the right places to meet him. I am praying and working towards being the "whole man" that can love and be loved. The next love I have will be for the rest of my life. I know all of this sounds corny. Having that kind of love is a desire of my heart. I thank God and praise God for his promises to grant the desires of my heart!
Lord, you work in every part of our lives if we just let you. I want to trust you. I want to flee to you. I stretch out my hand to you to ask for wholeness.
Foodie Friday
No recipe this week. I am writing about the pizza challenge I took when I was in Chicago last weekend. My favorite Chicago pizza is Giordanos. It is a think crust, stuffed pizza (also known as Chicago-style pizza). I love the buttery crust. I love the cheese stuffed in the layers. I love the generous toppings. I love the sauce on top the pie. My mouth is watering thinking about it!
A new acquaintance I met on a bus traveling to Wrigley Field told me about Mancinis Pizza. I didn't think there could be anything better than Giordanos, but I thought I would give it a try. I found a Mancinis restaurant and ordered a pizza. I wasn't exactly sure what to expect when I opened the box. It was a "home-style" crust (not stuffed) with LOTS of toppings. The toppings had a great taste as did the cheese. I was disappointed with the sauce. It tasted like the sauce I would get out of a can at the grocery store. Very disappointing considering how good the rest of the ingredients tasted.
I have to admit that Mancinis is probably better than any pizza I have had in Columbus so far, but it was still not Giordanos! I will continue my tradition of ordering a Giordanos pizza whenever I venture to Chicago!
Other Stuff
I had an appointment with my counselor last night. It went well. There are some things I just don't "get" at times. I am working on it with him and in my prayer life (praying to be made whole...).
I had dinner with my walking buddy and her husband last night. We always have a good time when we get together. I need to go back to their house tonight to finish fixing their computer. The monitor is not working right. I have no idea why. I brought some stuff with me from home to work on it. I will figure it out.
Not much planned for this weekend. I want to see the movie The Zookeeper. I plan to attend church on Sunday. I want to walk or go to the gym or something in there somewhere. ;-)
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do....
I really liked the devotional today. Marriage has been on m mind a lot lately with the passing of the same sex marriage law in New York. Woohooooo! I have two things to write about this topic.
First, it is difficult to know when same sex marriage will be legal in the state of Ohio. I don't entirely disagree with the decision being made by each state instead of the federal government. I don't want anyone to scream about "special rights" since marriage law is usually controlled by the states now. The problem with not having a federal law is that the state-sanctioned marriages may not hold up to the same rules as the federal laws for taxes, Social Security, etc. How is that going to work? Regardless of these details, I look forward to the day I can legally say "I do" and have the marriage recognized in the US.
Second, the other part of the equation (and maybe the more difficult part!) is finding the right man. hehehe God promised me the man meant for me in my dreams, visions and prayers. I am doing my best to put myself in the right places to meet him. I am praying and working towards being the "whole man" that can love and be loved. The next love I have will be for the rest of my life. I know all of this sounds corny. Having that kind of love is a desire of my heart. I thank God and praise God for his promises to grant the desires of my heart!
Lord, you work in every part of our lives if we just let you. I want to trust you. I want to flee to you. I stretch out my hand to you to ask for wholeness.
Foodie Friday
No recipe this week. I am writing about the pizza challenge I took when I was in Chicago last weekend. My favorite Chicago pizza is Giordanos. It is a think crust, stuffed pizza (also known as Chicago-style pizza). I love the buttery crust. I love the cheese stuffed in the layers. I love the generous toppings. I love the sauce on top the pie. My mouth is watering thinking about it!
A new acquaintance I met on a bus traveling to Wrigley Field told me about Mancinis Pizza. I didn't think there could be anything better than Giordanos, but I thought I would give it a try. I found a Mancinis restaurant and ordered a pizza. I wasn't exactly sure what to expect when I opened the box. It was a "home-style" crust (not stuffed) with LOTS of toppings. The toppings had a great taste as did the cheese. I was disappointed with the sauce. It tasted like the sauce I would get out of a can at the grocery store. Very disappointing considering how good the rest of the ingredients tasted.
I have to admit that Mancinis is probably better than any pizza I have had in Columbus so far, but it was still not Giordanos! I will continue my tradition of ordering a Giordanos pizza whenever I venture to Chicago!
Other Stuff
I had an appointment with my counselor last night. It went well. There are some things I just don't "get" at times. I am working on it with him and in my prayer life (praying to be made whole...).
I had dinner with my walking buddy and her husband last night. We always have a good time when we get together. I need to go back to their house tonight to finish fixing their computer. The monitor is not working right. I have no idea why. I brought some stuff with me from home to work on it. I will figure it out.
Not much planned for this weekend. I want to see the movie The Zookeeper. I plan to attend church on Sunday. I want to walk or go to the gym or something in there somewhere. ;-)
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do....
Thursday, July 7, 2011
How do I flee to him?
Our Daily Bread
The devotional talks about something that I don't really understand -- fleeing to Christ. The scripture talks about how David wanted to flee his troubles and his enemies. He had good reasons as lots of enemies wanted him dead! Yikes! I don't have that issue, but I still have the feeling that I want to flee from my struggles.
Like I mentioned several times in my postings, I have a tendency to whine when I compare my life to the struggles that others face. I am a whiner. I finally realized that whining represents my feelings and my feelings are important! There are very few things in my life that make me want to flee. They are mainly my health issues and my romantic life. I am doing my best to flee to Christ, to turn over all the things in my life over to Him. Resting in him is where real peace originates.
So please pray for me that I can finally turn some important things over to God. I can trust God. I can rest in His promises. I can flee to him. So can you...
Lord, thank you for being my place of rest and comfort. I can rejoice in good times and rest in you during the not-so-good times! Thank you!
Technology Thursday
There are some interesting things going on via the Internet.
Facebook
Facebook introduced their video chat service this week, including group chat. Experts are wondering the impact on the Internet as well as the impact of businesses using the platform for doing business. It will be interesting to see how this pans out. Over two million users tried the service the first few hours it was available.
Google+
Google introduced the Google+ service into beta (by invitation only) this week. It also includes video chat and group video chat. Are we seeing a pattern here? Microsoft buys Skype to get their videochat technology. Facebook introduces it. Google introduces the functionality. It will be very interesting to see how this all shakes out.
Apple
I am an Apple gadget geek. I like reading the rumor sites about the new products coming out. There are rumors about iPad3 this Fall. There are lots of rumors about the next iPhone(s). The latest iPhone rumors include a slightly upgraded iPhone4 AND a new iPhone5 will be introduced in September. That would be COOL! hehehe. I use an iPhone 3GS. I soooo want the upgrade to iPhone5! hehehe I will see what happens.
Other Stuff
I had a FANTASTIC appointment at the eye doctor yesterday. Both eyes are in decent shape now. The left eye has healed from the February surgery. The right eye has no swelling like it did in March. Whew! The doctor lifted my activity restrictions. Woohoooo! I slept like a normal person last night! It was great! I plan to start back to the gym on Friday (slowly at first!). I am very excited!
My prayer group had a great session last night. It was nice getting together (even if a few folks has to miss the meeting). We had a beautiful evening at Sharon Woods Park. Nature played its part in the evening with some woodsy animals hopping around close by! We had a great talk and shared prayer requests.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
The devotional talks about something that I don't really understand -- fleeing to Christ. The scripture talks about how David wanted to flee his troubles and his enemies. He had good reasons as lots of enemies wanted him dead! Yikes! I don't have that issue, but I still have the feeling that I want to flee from my struggles.
Like I mentioned several times in my postings, I have a tendency to whine when I compare my life to the struggles that others face. I am a whiner. I finally realized that whining represents my feelings and my feelings are important! There are very few things in my life that make me want to flee. They are mainly my health issues and my romantic life. I am doing my best to flee to Christ, to turn over all the things in my life over to Him. Resting in him is where real peace originates.
So please pray for me that I can finally turn some important things over to God. I can trust God. I can rest in His promises. I can flee to him. So can you...
Lord, thank you for being my place of rest and comfort. I can rejoice in good times and rest in you during the not-so-good times! Thank you!
Technology Thursday
There are some interesting things going on via the Internet.
Facebook introduced their video chat service this week, including group chat. Experts are wondering the impact on the Internet as well as the impact of businesses using the platform for doing business. It will be interesting to see how this pans out. Over two million users tried the service the first few hours it was available.
Google+
Google introduced the Google+ service into beta (by invitation only) this week. It also includes video chat and group video chat. Are we seeing a pattern here? Microsoft buys Skype to get their videochat technology. Facebook introduces it. Google introduces the functionality. It will be very interesting to see how this all shakes out.
Apple
I am an Apple gadget geek. I like reading the rumor sites about the new products coming out. There are rumors about iPad3 this Fall. There are lots of rumors about the next iPhone(s). The latest iPhone rumors include a slightly upgraded iPhone4 AND a new iPhone5 will be introduced in September. That would be COOL! hehehe. I use an iPhone 3GS. I soooo want the upgrade to iPhone5! hehehe I will see what happens.
Other Stuff
I had a FANTASTIC appointment at the eye doctor yesterday. Both eyes are in decent shape now. The left eye has healed from the February surgery. The right eye has no swelling like it did in March. Whew! The doctor lifted my activity restrictions. Woohoooo! I slept like a normal person last night! It was great! I plan to start back to the gym on Friday (slowly at first!). I am very excited!
My prayer group had a great session last night. It was nice getting together (even if a few folks has to miss the meeting). We had a beautiful evening at Sharon Woods Park. Nature played its part in the evening with some woodsy animals hopping around close by! We had a great talk and shared prayer requests.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Weak and weary?
Our Daily Bread
"Do not be weary in doing good..." Wow, I thought about how many times I had been weary by not being good! I am so ashamed!
So how do we "do not be weary" when doing good? What is weary? We usually think of tired or fatigued when we talk about being weary. I like this alternate definition:
"Having one's interest, forbearance, or indulgence worn out"
Wow! As a Christian, having one's interest or forbearance worn out sounds very, very serious! We should never do that! hehehe Seriously, the expression that I heard when I was younger is "you cannot dip from an empty well." If we think of our interest and forbearance as a water well from the Old Testament, folks would stop dipping into a well that they knew was dry. We can "dry up" when we push ourselves too far. Take care of yourself!
Lord, I want to keep my interest and forbearance when serving you!
Witness Wednesday
The later part of my 40's were odd to me since I was single again at that age. I was in a new age bracket on every survey I knew of! After a few months, I started dating. Yikes. I did the online thing for a few years. I met some nice guys. I met some real losers. I went out with a great guy who was a seasoned professional. I went out with a 32 year old hairdresser with a Mohawk hair cut. Go figure. I got very tired of dating so I started something even more odd -- a back and forth relationship with two very different men. I have written about Ying and Yang many times in my blog. I won't write any more.
The last few years of my 40s left me tired and weary... yes, weary of pursuing another relationship. I will talk about how things changed in my 50s. Yes, they did change, praise God!
Other Stuff
Prayer group tonight - Yeah!
Eye doctor appointment today - eeeekkkk!
Life is good. Appreciate it!
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
"Do not be weary in doing good..." Wow, I thought about how many times I had been weary by not being good! I am so ashamed!
So how do we "do not be weary" when doing good? What is weary? We usually think of tired or fatigued when we talk about being weary. I like this alternate definition:
"Having one's interest, forbearance, or indulgence worn out"
Wow! As a Christian, having one's interest or forbearance worn out sounds very, very serious! We should never do that! hehehe Seriously, the expression that I heard when I was younger is "you cannot dip from an empty well." If we think of our interest and forbearance as a water well from the Old Testament, folks would stop dipping into a well that they knew was dry. We can "dry up" when we push ourselves too far. Take care of yourself!
Lord, I want to keep my interest and forbearance when serving you!
Witness Wednesday
The later part of my 40's were odd to me since I was single again at that age. I was in a new age bracket on every survey I knew of! After a few months, I started dating. Yikes. I did the online thing for a few years. I met some nice guys. I met some real losers. I went out with a great guy who was a seasoned professional. I went out with a 32 year old hairdresser with a Mohawk hair cut. Go figure. I got very tired of dating so I started something even more odd -- a back and forth relationship with two very different men. I have written about Ying and Yang many times in my blog. I won't write any more.
The last few years of my 40s left me tired and weary... yes, weary of pursuing another relationship. I will talk about how things changed in my 50s. Yes, they did change, praise God!
Other Stuff
Prayer group tonight - Yeah!
Eye doctor appointment today - eeeekkkk!
Life is good. Appreciate it!
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
A real friend?
Our Daily Bread
What is a friend? I love the definition suggested in the devotional:
Someone has defined friendship as “knowing the heart of another and sharing one’s heart with another.”
Very cool! In this day and age, many people consider the folks on Facebook their real "friends". How sad! I have a buddy from Texas that had over 2000 "friends" on Facebook. When I asked about one that was particularly cute, he said "I don't know all of these people!". DOH! The saddest part is that many folks are so lonely in real life that they consider themselves better "connected" since joining Facebook! Yikes! Oh well.
The point of the devotion is that we all know that Jesus is our friend. Are we his friends? Can he share his heart with us and we do things that are for his good? I was impressed by that approach to the devotional. What do you think?
Lord, I want to be you friend even though you don't need my friendship. Help me build trust so you can share your heart...
Special Edition - Chicago
I had a nice drive home today. The weather was absolutely beautiful! Wow! My GPS took me a very odd way home, but it worked. Whew! I may just stick with the way I know next time!
I had a great time at Oak Park yesterday. Here are a few pics of some of the Frank Lloyd Wright homes I saw:
I went to Ikea after I rested for a little while in the hotel. I found this kitchen that I want:
It was even on sale! Oh well. I have spent too much money on the house and stuff this year. I need to wait until next year for any more work!
Other Stuff
I am excited to be home. I look forward to sleeping in my own bed tonight. The one at the hotel hurt my back! Oh well. I have a checkup with the eye doctor tomorrow afternoon. I will let you know how it goes.
I have a meeting with my prayer group tomorrow night. I am excited about that.
Not sure what this weekend will bring. What does it matter where the road goes as long as God is leading? ;-)
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
What is a friend? I love the definition suggested in the devotional:
Someone has defined friendship as “knowing the heart of another and sharing one’s heart with another.”
Very cool! In this day and age, many people consider the folks on Facebook their real "friends". How sad! I have a buddy from Texas that had over 2000 "friends" on Facebook. When I asked about one that was particularly cute, he said "I don't know all of these people!". DOH! The saddest part is that many folks are so lonely in real life that they consider themselves better "connected" since joining Facebook! Yikes! Oh well.
The point of the devotion is that we all know that Jesus is our friend. Are we his friends? Can he share his heart with us and we do things that are for his good? I was impressed by that approach to the devotional. What do you think?
Lord, I want to be you friend even though you don't need my friendship. Help me build trust so you can share your heart...
Special Edition - Chicago
I had a nice drive home today. The weather was absolutely beautiful! Wow! My GPS took me a very odd way home, but it worked. Whew! I may just stick with the way I know next time!
I had a great time at Oak Park yesterday. Here are a few pics of some of the Frank Lloyd Wright homes I saw:
Other Stuff
I am excited to be home. I look forward to sleeping in my own bed tonight. The one at the hotel hurt my back! Oh well. I have a checkup with the eye doctor tomorrow afternoon. I will let you know how it goes.
I have a meeting with my prayer group tomorrow night. I am excited about that.
Not sure what this weekend will bring. What does it matter where the road goes as long as God is leading? ;-)
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Monday, July 4, 2011
Caution: sign ahead.
Our Daily Bread
The devotion today is about a ruling to allow a cross to be displayed on public land. Personally, I have no problem with separating church and state. Imagine how our government would mess up religion if we let them! Hehehe
The important point is that we have a choice to display the Cross in our lives. No law or government can take that away from us!
Special Edition - Chicago
I had a nice time at the church visited yesterday. Very cool. After church I took the train and bus to Wrigley Field for the Cubs-White Sox game. It was packed! I stayed til the sixth inning then went back to the hotel. I was tired. I didn't sleep well the past two nights. I think the bed is killing my back.
I plan to visit Oak Park today. I will see how that goes.
On a side note the new OTC lotion my dermatologist seems to be helping my psoriasis. Woo hook!
Hang in there my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
The devotion today is about a ruling to allow a cross to be displayed on public land. Personally, I have no problem with separating church and state. Imagine how our government would mess up religion if we let them! Hehehe
The important point is that we have a choice to display the Cross in our lives. No law or government can take that away from us!
Special Edition - Chicago
I had a nice time at the church visited yesterday. Very cool. After church I took the train and bus to Wrigley Field for the Cubs-White Sox game. It was packed! I stayed til the sixth inning then went back to the hotel. I was tired. I didn't sleep well the past two nights. I think the bed is killing my back.
I plan to visit Oak Park today. I will see how that goes.
On a side note the new OTC lotion my dermatologist seems to be helping my psoriasis. Woo hook!
Hang in there my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Hungry for the Word
Our Daily Bread
Have you ever HUNGERED for the word of God? I don't think I ever have. I understand better what that means at this point in my life. God has been working in my life since I made a stronger commitment to read and study. Praise God! I pray that we all can better understand this concept!
Thank you God for your Word. I want to feed on it and grow in you.
Special Edition - Chicago
It is a beautiful day here. I am waiting for church to start. This should be cool. I found the directions to the CTA station for my trip to the ball park after church. It is not far.
I hope you have a great day! Hang in there!
Have you ever HUNGERED for the word of God? I don't think I ever have. I understand better what that means at this point in my life. God has been working in my life since I made a stronger commitment to read and study. Praise God! I pray that we all can better understand this concept!
Thank you God for your Word. I want to feed on it and grow in you.
Special Edition - Chicago
It is a beautiful day here. I am waiting for church to start. This should be cool. I found the directions to the CTA station for my trip to the ball park after church. It is not far.
I hope you have a great day! Hang in there!
Saturday, July 2, 2011
What ya doin?
Our daily Bread
I am a silly old bear! I had some friends in Louisville that started every phone conversation with:
what ya doin?
nothin'
what ya wearin?
nothin'
Like I said...
Imagine if you had to answer that question to God throughout every day of your life. I mean the What ya doin? question of course! I know I should think about that more before I do seemingly stupid stuff not just before big decisions!
Lord I want to be able to explain my every action to you!
Special Edition - Chicago trip
I am having a blast in Chicago. I had a decent drive up here despite some nasty storms north of Indy. I relaxed last night after settling in at the hotel. Today I went to the Art Institute. Amazing! I walked over to the Taate of Chicago event after that. I dragged my butt back to the hotel after picking up a Giordanos pizza. Mmmmmmmmm. I had a relaxing evening in the hot tub and then the bathtub.
I found a church to attend tomorrow morning then I will head off to Wrigley Field for the baseball game. Cool! I have leftover pizza for supper Sunday night!
Hang in there my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what do...
I am a silly old bear! I had some friends in Louisville that started every phone conversation with:
what ya doin?
nothin'
what ya wearin?
nothin'
Like I said...
Imagine if you had to answer that question to God throughout every day of your life. I mean the What ya doin? question of course! I know I should think about that more before I do seemingly stupid stuff not just before big decisions!
Lord I want to be able to explain my every action to you!
Special Edition - Chicago trip
I am having a blast in Chicago. I had a decent drive up here despite some nasty storms north of Indy. I relaxed last night after settling in at the hotel. Today I went to the Art Institute. Amazing! I walked over to the Taate of Chicago event after that. I dragged my butt back to the hotel after picking up a Giordanos pizza. Mmmmmmmmm. I had a relaxing evening in the hot tub and then the bathtub.
I found a church to attend tomorrow morning then I will head off to Wrigley Field for the baseball game. Cool! I have leftover pizza for supper Sunday night!
Hang in there my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what do...
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)