Our Daily Bread
I think I am starting to sound like my grandmother -- "I just can imagine that..." she would say when talking about the technology breakthroughs that happened since she was born. Imagine what the breakthroughs would be over the course of 1,000 years of living compared to 84 years! I just can't imagine! hehehe
The point of the devotional is that we should be prepared to meet our maker at any time. Our lives are not guaranteed to last a certain length of time. Our Lord Jesus could return at any second. It makes no difference how long we live -- we need to be prepared!
Lord, I want to be ready to meet you whenever the time comes!
Foodie Friday
I finally have some time to cook this weekend! Woohoooo! I made a Giant Eagle run last night to use up my 10% fuel perks discount. I loaded up! It had been a while since I spent more than $20 on food at the grocery!
For dinner tonight: my buddy and I are going to make salmon and some veggies. Should be fun. I might put on my pot roast as well when I get home. I plan to eat leftover roast a few times!
For potluck on Saturday: I am going to make an Italian salad with Spring mix greens, dressing, cheese, pepperoni and almonds or walnuts.
I also bought some fast fixing food like pizza, breakfast stuff, and some grilling stuff like steaks. Should be fun.
Other Stuff
My first batch of plants arrived last night. I will get those in the ground on Saturday. I need to mow the lawn as well. I have my laundry washed and dried. I need to fold it and put is away. I would like to go to a movie, but I am not sure I will have time. I haven't been to the movies in three weeks. What is up with that? hehehe Maybe next week.
I got most of my D1 reading done last night before choir practice. I will review each day. Choir practice was fun. I love the song we are doing this week with brass, hand bells and organ. Very cool!
Life is good. God is great. I pray that I keep growing in Him and trusting him more.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Friday, September 30, 2011
Thursday, September 29, 2011
We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord...
Our Daily Bread
It is so easy to limit yourself and your church to include only people like you in the mix. We like to be around folks that have something in common with us! It makes us feel included and supported. We can sometimes let this tendency to exclude folks that want or need to be in our lives or churches. Not good!
The early church had issues with the Christians of Jewish descent thinking they were better than the Gentiles that were Christians. Not so! Paul made it clear that Christ wiped away any differences between the Jews and the Gentiles to make one church. One unified church! Wow!
As we look at all the different types of churches today and the many folks who are atheists or agnostics, it is no wonder so many folks don't want anything to do with the church (and maybe God). We should all pray for unity so we can reach everyone for God.
Lord, we really are one in your Spirit and one in you. Help us to live that way.
Technology Thursday
Amazon.com announced their new devices yesterday. Wow! Could the Kindle Fire be a true competitor to the iPad? We will see. Here is a link to the Kindle Fire web page. It is a touch screen device with a 7" color screen, 8 gig of storage, free Amazon.com content cloud storage (not sure how that works), a fast web browser and a dual core processor. The price is only $199! That is $300 less than the 16 gig iPad. Wow! The screen is smaller and the storage is smaller than the iPad. We will see how it performs. I pre-ordered one today. They are supposed to be available on November 15.
Amazon.com also introduced two new Kindles -- the Touch Wifi and the Touch Wifi+3G. They are $99 and $149 respectively. The old "button interface" Kindle dropped to $79. Wow! The new Touch Kindles have no buttons. They have 4gig of memory compared to the 2gig for the old Kindle style. Some very cool stuff.
I agree with their CEO -- they will sell MILLIONS of these things!
Other Stuff
I had a busy night last night. I was soooo tired after work. I took a quick nap before supper, and then realized that I forgot my D1 book and iPad at home! ;-( Oh well. I ate supper at Oodles. I drove home to put a load of laundry in the washer and pick up my D1 stuff. I am trying to get laundry done during the week so I don't have to spend all weekend on it! hehehe I have the last load in the dryer this morning. I need to fold and put it all away next.
My devotion went well at D1 class. I sang the song I posted here a few weeks ago called Blessings by Laura Story. The class seemed to receive it well. Randy did a good job teaching even though the pace was brisk.
It is the little things in life that make it worthwhile -- I am halfway to my free meal at Oodles after having the Moo goo gai pan last night... hehehe
Since I have been so busy the past few weeks, I hadn't noticed that my neighbors sold their house and moved out. I think I saw the new neighbors last night, but I am not sure. I will check that out this weekend.
Not sure what today 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...
It is so easy to limit yourself and your church to include only people like you in the mix. We like to be around folks that have something in common with us! It makes us feel included and supported. We can sometimes let this tendency to exclude folks that want or need to be in our lives or churches. Not good!
The early church had issues with the Christians of Jewish descent thinking they were better than the Gentiles that were Christians. Not so! Paul made it clear that Christ wiped away any differences between the Jews and the Gentiles to make one church. One unified church! Wow!
As we look at all the different types of churches today and the many folks who are atheists or agnostics, it is no wonder so many folks don't want anything to do with the church (and maybe God). We should all pray for unity so we can reach everyone for God.
Lord, we really are one in your Spirit and one in you. Help us to live that way.
Technology Thursday
Amazon.com announced their new devices yesterday. Wow! Could the Kindle Fire be a true competitor to the iPad? We will see. Here is a link to the Kindle Fire web page. It is a touch screen device with a 7" color screen, 8 gig of storage, free Amazon.com content cloud storage (not sure how that works), a fast web browser and a dual core processor. The price is only $199! That is $300 less than the 16 gig iPad. Wow! The screen is smaller and the storage is smaller than the iPad. We will see how it performs. I pre-ordered one today. They are supposed to be available on November 15.
Amazon.com also introduced two new Kindles -- the Touch Wifi and the Touch Wifi+3G. They are $99 and $149 respectively. The old "button interface" Kindle dropped to $79. Wow! The new Touch Kindles have no buttons. They have 4gig of memory compared to the 2gig for the old Kindle style. Some very cool stuff.
I agree with their CEO -- they will sell MILLIONS of these things!
Other Stuff
I had a busy night last night. I was soooo tired after work. I took a quick nap before supper, and then realized that I forgot my D1 book and iPad at home! ;-( Oh well. I ate supper at Oodles. I drove home to put a load of laundry in the washer and pick up my D1 stuff. I am trying to get laundry done during the week so I don't have to spend all weekend on it! hehehe I have the last load in the dryer this morning. I need to fold and put it all away next.
My devotion went well at D1 class. I sang the song I posted here a few weeks ago called Blessings by Laura Story. The class seemed to receive it well. Randy did a good job teaching even though the pace was brisk.
It is the little things in life that make it worthwhile -- I am halfway to my free meal at Oodles after having the Moo goo gai pan last night... hehehe
Since I have been so busy the past few weeks, I hadn't noticed that my neighbors sold their house and moved out. I think I saw the new neighbors last night, but I am not sure. I will check that out this weekend.
Not sure what today 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...
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Renew my subscription, please...
Our Daily Bread
A friend of mine has a cute tshirt that says: "Cancel my subscription. I am tired of your issues..." Ha! I am sure God gets tired of my issues, but he keeps renewing my subscription every day! Praise God!
The devotional talks about using some purposeful statements to remind ourselves to be open to the Holy Spirit so it can renew our minds and hearts. The passage in Romans 12 that talks about giving ourselves as a living sacrifice to God. Renewing our mind to closer match the mind of Christ. Wow! Please read more about this in the Witness Wednesday section below...
Lord, thank you for renewing my mind and heart -- when I finally let go and let you work in my life!
Witness Wednesday
If you have read my blog at all, you know that music speaks to me in many ways and at opportune times. On the way to work this morning, the Holy Spirit used two songs to speak to me to help me renew my mind. The Holy Spirit was reminding me about the role of God in my life -- first in my life and my deliverer. Wow! God is making me whole, as I turn things over to him. I am so thankful for the way he is working in my life and the lives of others who seek him.
I am sharing a song as my devotional tonight in the D1 class. I hope the lyrics speak to others like it spoke to me. I pray that God will work through me instead of me seeking the glory for myself.
Other Stuff
I had a busy evening last night. I ran an errand after work. Thank you, my hero, for the salt potatoes! I love those! I got a quick bite of supper, then drove to church where I worked on my D1 lessons before my meeting at church. The meeting wasn't well attended, but we got some stuff done.
I went home to do some laundry and put things away from the weekend trip. I also laid out the 8X10 pics against the frames I bought at Ikea on Friday. They will look very nice! Cool! I need to do a little trim work on the walls in the basement before hanging the pictures. I removed a little paint around the edges when I removed the painters tape. Yikes! I was so careful! I have some other large prints to hang down there as well. I need to pick up some track lights for the display. I will post a picture when I get done with it.
I also placed a bid on a projector for the basement. It is not exactly what I want, but it will be a good deal if I win the bid. We will see. I also placed a bid on a tablet/laptop PC that could be interesting.
I need to hit the gym after work tonight, get some supper, and then go to church for D1 class.
I can slow down some this weekend. Whew! I like being busy. It sort of keeps me out of trouble. Sort of... hehehe
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
A friend of mine has a cute tshirt that says: "Cancel my subscription. I am tired of your issues..." Ha! I am sure God gets tired of my issues, but he keeps renewing my subscription every day! Praise God!
The devotional talks about using some purposeful statements to remind ourselves to be open to the Holy Spirit so it can renew our minds and hearts. The passage in Romans 12 that talks about giving ourselves as a living sacrifice to God. Renewing our mind to closer match the mind of Christ. Wow! Please read more about this in the Witness Wednesday section below...
Lord, thank you for renewing my mind and heart -- when I finally let go and let you work in my life!
Witness Wednesday
If you have read my blog at all, you know that music speaks to me in many ways and at opportune times. On the way to work this morning, the Holy Spirit used two songs to speak to me to help me renew my mind. The Holy Spirit was reminding me about the role of God in my life -- first in my life and my deliverer. Wow! God is making me whole, as I turn things over to him. I am so thankful for the way he is working in my life and the lives of others who seek him.
I am sharing a song as my devotional tonight in the D1 class. I hope the lyrics speak to others like it spoke to me. I pray that God will work through me instead of me seeking the glory for myself.
Other Stuff
I had a busy evening last night. I ran an errand after work. Thank you, my hero, for the salt potatoes! I love those! I got a quick bite of supper, then drove to church where I worked on my D1 lessons before my meeting at church. The meeting wasn't well attended, but we got some stuff done.
I went home to do some laundry and put things away from the weekend trip. I also laid out the 8X10 pics against the frames I bought at Ikea on Friday. They will look very nice! Cool! I need to do a little trim work on the walls in the basement before hanging the pictures. I removed a little paint around the edges when I removed the painters tape. Yikes! I was so careful! I have some other large prints to hang down there as well. I need to pick up some track lights for the display. I will post a picture when I get done with it.
I also placed a bid on a projector for the basement. It is not exactly what I want, but it will be a good deal if I win the bid. We will see. I also placed a bid on a tablet/laptop PC that could be interesting.
I need to hit the gym after work tonight, get some supper, and then go to church for D1 class.
I can slow down some this weekend. Whew! I like being busy. It sort of keeps me out of trouble. Sort of... hehehe
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
What is in your hand?
Our Daily Bread
The devotional today is pretty cool. It has two stories of God using simple men with limited means to do extraordinary things. How much more could we do today if we just trust God?
What would happen if we could use the pen in our hand to write for God? What would happen if we the computer resources that most of us have were used to praise him or testify for him? What would happen if we trusted God with all of our being to do great things through us?
Personally, I have great faith when it comes to other folks. I feel like my faith could move mountains for others. My faith wains when I try to believe God's promises for myself. I doubt. God reassures. I try to take matters into my own hands. God reminds me I am powerless without him. I think I know what is best for me. God reminds me that my decisions haven't always been the best! Yikes!
Lord, I want to turn over all of me for your use. Please help me trust you in everything.
Teaching Tuesday
The D1 lesson this week was on the creation story. It was very cool as it covered the two creation stories in Genesis. I never realized that the first creation story was poetry and should be read that way. The second story is a history lesson and should be read that way. Very cool. That explains the differences between the two accounts. Take a look at the first chapter of Genesis, then the second book of Genesis. You will see what I mean.
Other Stuff
I had a busy day on Monday. Work was busy. I had a session with my counselor after work. We had mens chorus rehearsal on Monday (since the conductor was out of town on Sunday). It was a long day, but I had a good time.
I have a meeting at church tonight, then I need to get some stuff ready for the D1 class tomorrow night. I am giving the devotional. God lead me to a song. I will practice it some more tonight. I would rather have the words memorized that read them off of a sheet. I will see how that goes.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
The devotional today is pretty cool. It has two stories of God using simple men with limited means to do extraordinary things. How much more could we do today if we just trust God?
What would happen if we could use the pen in our hand to write for God? What would happen if we the computer resources that most of us have were used to praise him or testify for him? What would happen if we trusted God with all of our being to do great things through us?
Personally, I have great faith when it comes to other folks. I feel like my faith could move mountains for others. My faith wains when I try to believe God's promises for myself. I doubt. God reassures. I try to take matters into my own hands. God reminds me I am powerless without him. I think I know what is best for me. God reminds me that my decisions haven't always been the best! Yikes!
Lord, I want to turn over all of me for your use. Please help me trust you in everything.
Teaching Tuesday
The D1 lesson this week was on the creation story. It was very cool as it covered the two creation stories in Genesis. I never realized that the first creation story was poetry and should be read that way. The second story is a history lesson and should be read that way. Very cool. That explains the differences between the two accounts. Take a look at the first chapter of Genesis, then the second book of Genesis. You will see what I mean.
Other Stuff
I had a busy day on Monday. Work was busy. I had a session with my counselor after work. We had mens chorus rehearsal on Monday (since the conductor was out of town on Sunday). It was a long day, but I had a good time.
I have a meeting at church tonight, then I need to get some stuff ready for the D1 class tomorrow night. I am giving the devotional. God lead me to a song. I will practice it some more tonight. I would rather have the words memorized that read them off of a sheet. I will see how that goes.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Monday, September 26, 2011
FIRM foundation
Our Daily Bread
I usually just sort of skim over the devotionals that talk about children, especially ones talking about rearing children. I don't know nothing 'bout birthin' no babies! Sorry for the Gone with the Wind reference, but I thought it was funny (and appropriate!).
Today's devotional was different. I learned from the Spirit that the FIRM principle can be used with all ages:
Familiarity
Interest
Recognition
Modeling
We can do this for folks of ALL ages, not just for children! No, we are not perfect, but we can show others the way to God by following this principle! The scripture included one of my favorite verses -- Deut 6:5. So remember, keep it simple and use the FIRM principle!
Lord, I want to live Deut 6:5 each and every day. Thank you for the way your Spirit talks to me and tries to guide my stubborn heart.
Movie Monday
No time for movies this week. I am posting some pictures from my trip to Pittsburgh this weekend. I had a great time. Some of the pics were taken with my new digital camera. I like the pictures it takes, but I am not sure it is made as well as my old camera. ;-p The pictures are of Fallingwater, PNC ball park, and downtown Pittsburgh.
Other Stuff
I had a nice talk with my friend, William, while driving to and from church yesterday. His partner is a minister at a Lutheran church. He did a great job with the service yesterday. We had a nice time talking at lunch after church. I am so thankful for William's friendship. We have known each other about nine years now.
I also texted back and forth with a friend in Pittsburgh I met a few months ago. Our schedules didn't match up for us to have coffee. We had a good time exchanging texts.
I took a wrong turn on the way home. That took me about an hour out of my way home. ;-( Oh well.
Another busy week. Things will slow down a little after this week. Whew...
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
I usually just sort of skim over the devotionals that talk about children, especially ones talking about rearing children. I don't know nothing 'bout birthin' no babies! Sorry for the Gone with the Wind reference, but I thought it was funny (and appropriate!).
Today's devotional was different. I learned from the Spirit that the FIRM principle can be used with all ages:
Familiarity
Interest
Recognition
Modeling
We can do this for folks of ALL ages, not just for children! No, we are not perfect, but we can show others the way to God by following this principle! The scripture included one of my favorite verses -- Deut 6:5. So remember, keep it simple and use the FIRM principle!
Lord, I want to live Deut 6:5 each and every day. Thank you for the way your Spirit talks to me and tries to guide my stubborn heart.
Movie Monday
No time for movies this week. I am posting some pictures from my trip to Pittsburgh this weekend. I had a great time. Some of the pics were taken with my new digital camera. I like the pictures it takes, but I am not sure it is made as well as my old camera. ;-p The pictures are of Fallingwater, PNC ball park, and downtown Pittsburgh.
Other Stuff
I had a nice talk with my friend, William, while driving to and from church yesterday. His partner is a minister at a Lutheran church. He did a great job with the service yesterday. We had a nice time talking at lunch after church. I am so thankful for William's friendship. We have known each other about nine years now.
I also texted back and forth with a friend in Pittsburgh I met a few months ago. Our schedules didn't match up for us to have coffee. We had a good time exchanging texts.
I took a wrong turn on the way home. That took me about an hour out of my way home. ;-( Oh well.
Another busy week. Things will slow down a little after this week. Whew...
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Friday, September 23, 2011
Ever been wronged?
Our Daily Bread
Having been wronged a few times in my life, I know how unfair things can be. I have this family value that used to cause me to try to right every unfair thing! It seems like a noble cause, but it is like Don Quixote flailing at the wind mill! For those of you who have no idea what the reference is about, click here.
The devotional today talks about how God will right every wrong when he brings his kingdom to earth or when he takes us to heaven. Wow! That is a lot of wrongs! How can God do that? It is not my job to figure it out. It is my job to have faith and believe in the Almighty God, the One who turned the chaos into our world today with the Word. Wow!
Lord, I want to focus on bringing your heaven to earth and not the needless details if the "how do things work" questions!
Foodie Friday
Not much on the foodie front this week. I started eating at my favorite supper place near church - Oodles. It is an Asian place with lots of tasty goodness! I had the General Tso's chicken with brown rice last Wednesday, the chicken with broccoli with brown rice last Thursday, the fried rice with chicken and brown rice Wednesday night and the Pad Thai last night. MmmmMmmmmm! If you didn't notice, they have brown rice. It really works much better for me. I learned last night that I have to take more insulin when I eat the Pad Thai. The rice noodles jack up my blood sugar. YIkes!
Not sure if I will eat any place special this weekend. It is not really a foodie weekend, but I will have a good meal or two. I want to hit Dave and Andy's ice cream place if I get time. ;-)
Other Stuff
I was sooooo tired after work last night that I parked in Goodale Park and took a nap! Whew! I fell dead asleep for over an hour. I felt better so I went to Oodles for supper. I went to church after that to do some reading before choir practice. Choir practice was fun. I am enjoying it more since I am not trying to fit in with the clique in the back row. ;-p I came home and packed for my trip. I am leaving work at 11:30 to drive to Pittsburgh. I paid more for this hotel room so I could have a Jacuzzi tub. I will definitely use it tonight!
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady That is what I do...
Having been wronged a few times in my life, I know how unfair things can be. I have this family value that used to cause me to try to right every unfair thing! It seems like a noble cause, but it is like Don Quixote flailing at the wind mill! For those of you who have no idea what the reference is about, click here.
The devotional today talks about how God will right every wrong when he brings his kingdom to earth or when he takes us to heaven. Wow! That is a lot of wrongs! How can God do that? It is not my job to figure it out. It is my job to have faith and believe in the Almighty God, the One who turned the chaos into our world today with the Word. Wow!
Lord, I want to focus on bringing your heaven to earth and not the needless details if the "how do things work" questions!
Foodie Friday
Not much on the foodie front this week. I started eating at my favorite supper place near church - Oodles. It is an Asian place with lots of tasty goodness! I had the General Tso's chicken with brown rice last Wednesday, the chicken with broccoli with brown rice last Thursday, the fried rice with chicken and brown rice Wednesday night and the Pad Thai last night. MmmmMmmmmm! If you didn't notice, they have brown rice. It really works much better for me. I learned last night that I have to take more insulin when I eat the Pad Thai. The rice noodles jack up my blood sugar. YIkes!
Not sure if I will eat any place special this weekend. It is not really a foodie weekend, but I will have a good meal or two. I want to hit Dave and Andy's ice cream place if I get time. ;-)
Other Stuff
I was sooooo tired after work last night that I parked in Goodale Park and took a nap! Whew! I fell dead asleep for over an hour. I felt better so I went to Oodles for supper. I went to church after that to do some reading before choir practice. Choir practice was fun. I am enjoying it more since I am not trying to fit in with the clique in the back row. ;-p I came home and packed for my trip. I am leaving work at 11:30 to drive to Pittsburgh. I paid more for this hotel room so I could have a Jacuzzi tub. I will definitely use it tonight!
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady That is what I do...
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Head in the sand...
Our Daily Bread
Have you ever met someone that seemed to have his or her head in the sand? They were so oblivious or unaware of self that it seemed almost impossible to talk to them? Have you ever met someone who is WAY too self aware? hehehe Finding balance is important!
The devotional today talks about have a balance -- having a examined life as Socrates described it. Personally, I probably err on the side of being WAY too self aware! Well, it is like my self-esteem. There are some areas where I am very, very strong. Some areas of my self esteem, no so much! There are some areas in my life, like relationships right now, where I am way too self aware. I need to relax. I need to listen to the Holy Spirit as it guides me on the road to healthy self awareness. I pray that for you as well!
Lord, thank you for your Holy Spirit that can help us know ourselves, and see ourselves through your eyes.
Technology Thursday
October 4! Well, maybe, October 4 will be the day that Apple will announce the new iPhone device(s). There might be more than one! Rumors are that Apple will announce a high end iPhone 5 and an upgraded low-end phone version of the iPhone 4 (think Walmart). Apple has a long way to go to catch up and get ahead of the latest Android phones. We will see how they fare. I want one already! hehehe
Apple may also announce the release of the next iPad version for 2012, or they may wait until after the first of the year. I may have to purchase an iPad3 if it is that much better... hehehe I can use my current one for my recipe library in the kitchen. My Pandora Novel is too small and too hard to read (though it does have a decent web browsing speed).
The phone carriers are all gearing up for the next iPhone release. It will be interesting to see how the data plans for the new phone works out. I read a stat yesterday that a Verizon LTE network user could possibly use their monthly data allotment in an HOUR of heavy use over the high speed network. Yikes!
Other Stuff
I went to the gym last night after work. Had a quick dinner at Oodles before heading to church. I unloaded my rummage sale stuff and helped Marge get the other stuff downstairs. I had a nice talk with Marge. We both took the D2 class together last year.
The D1 class was good. It is very different than D2. I have always learned stuff very easily, so I have often skipped the basics and gone on to advanced stuff. God wants me in this class to learn more basics about the Bible before moving on to deeper things again. Very cool.
I had a good talk with my friend last night. We talked and prayed together. I will do my best to be a friend, but not get caught up in the romantic dribble of trying to date him. I will ease into it carefully. I figured out some behavior changes to put into place immediately.
I am looking forward to my trip to Pittsburgh this weekend. It will be busy but should be a good time. I like busy and I like good times. hehehe
God is so good. Doing our best to listen and obey helps us live our lives in the best way possible -- bringing his kingdom of heaven to earth. How cool is that? It is not always easy. It is not always painless. It is definitely worth it! Like I said earlier this week, I receive at least three blessings for each tear, and there have been a lot of tears! I praise God for his goodness and love.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Have you ever met someone that seemed to have his or her head in the sand? They were so oblivious or unaware of self that it seemed almost impossible to talk to them? Have you ever met someone who is WAY too self aware? hehehe Finding balance is important!
The devotional today talks about have a balance -- having a examined life as Socrates described it. Personally, I probably err on the side of being WAY too self aware! Well, it is like my self-esteem. There are some areas where I am very, very strong. Some areas of my self esteem, no so much! There are some areas in my life, like relationships right now, where I am way too self aware. I need to relax. I need to listen to the Holy Spirit as it guides me on the road to healthy self awareness. I pray that for you as well!
Lord, thank you for your Holy Spirit that can help us know ourselves, and see ourselves through your eyes.
Technology Thursday
October 4! Well, maybe, October 4 will be the day that Apple will announce the new iPhone device(s). There might be more than one! Rumors are that Apple will announce a high end iPhone 5 and an upgraded low-end phone version of the iPhone 4 (think Walmart). Apple has a long way to go to catch up and get ahead of the latest Android phones. We will see how they fare. I want one already! hehehe
Apple may also announce the release of the next iPad version for 2012, or they may wait until after the first of the year. I may have to purchase an iPad3 if it is that much better... hehehe I can use my current one for my recipe library in the kitchen. My Pandora Novel is too small and too hard to read (though it does have a decent web browsing speed).
The phone carriers are all gearing up for the next iPhone release. It will be interesting to see how the data plans for the new phone works out. I read a stat yesterday that a Verizon LTE network user could possibly use their monthly data allotment in an HOUR of heavy use over the high speed network. Yikes!
Other Stuff
I went to the gym last night after work. Had a quick dinner at Oodles before heading to church. I unloaded my rummage sale stuff and helped Marge get the other stuff downstairs. I had a nice talk with Marge. We both took the D2 class together last year.
The D1 class was good. It is very different than D2. I have always learned stuff very easily, so I have often skipped the basics and gone on to advanced stuff. God wants me in this class to learn more basics about the Bible before moving on to deeper things again. Very cool.
I had a good talk with my friend last night. We talked and prayed together. I will do my best to be a friend, but not get caught up in the romantic dribble of trying to date him. I will ease into it carefully. I figured out some behavior changes to put into place immediately.
I am looking forward to my trip to Pittsburgh this weekend. It will be busy but should be a good time. I like busy and I like good times. hehehe
God is so good. Doing our best to listen and obey helps us live our lives in the best way possible -- bringing his kingdom of heaven to earth. How cool is that? It is not always easy. It is not always painless. It is definitely worth it! Like I said earlier this week, I receive at least three blessings for each tear, and there have been a lot of tears! I praise God for his goodness and love.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Comforted, we are
Our Daily Bread
What would a Sunday morning message sound like if Yoda, the character from the Star Wars films, was a minister? hehehe "Comforted, we are" he would say! ha! The devotional today talks about just that.
Yes, tears and sadness in this life are almost inevitable. Stuff happens! The key for a child of God is how we handle these times. Do we cower in a dark place, afraid to come out again? Afraid to put our heart out, hoping to find love? Afraid to care about friends or family because they just leave us eventually? NO! We are to cast our cares on God! He will help us heal and make us whole! It is OK to cry. God knows I have done enough of it this year trying to work through a relationship. I refuse to close myself off. I refuse to "give up on men" as one friend suggested. I will have an open and loving heart to present to the man that God has for me. Praise God!
Lord, thank you for each tear. It seems I get at least three blessings for each tear!
Witness Wednesday
As I wrote above, I will not let the last failed attempt at the relationship I wanted to keep my down. Yes, there have been tears. No, I am not as strong as I would like to be since I don't want to remain close friends with this person. It is all I can do at this point to pray for the man. He is so out of touch with himself and his feelings. He finds some fantasy world to dwell in instead of reality and this world. It is sad. I hoped my love would help him. I didn't want to fix him -- just bring him back to the land of the loving after he had been hurt. Doesn't God love us back to wholeness? I gave up. I will be fine. He will have to worry about his own problems and the ramifications.
Other Stuff
I had a great dinner at my walking buddy's home last night. We always have a good evening. I got a few things done around the house before I went over.
Making some more plans for Pittsburgh this weekend. Should be fun.
Hang in there. my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
What would a Sunday morning message sound like if Yoda, the character from the Star Wars films, was a minister? hehehe "Comforted, we are" he would say! ha! The devotional today talks about just that.
Yes, tears and sadness in this life are almost inevitable. Stuff happens! The key for a child of God is how we handle these times. Do we cower in a dark place, afraid to come out again? Afraid to put our heart out, hoping to find love? Afraid to care about friends or family because they just leave us eventually? NO! We are to cast our cares on God! He will help us heal and make us whole! It is OK to cry. God knows I have done enough of it this year trying to work through a relationship. I refuse to close myself off. I refuse to "give up on men" as one friend suggested. I will have an open and loving heart to present to the man that God has for me. Praise God!
Lord, thank you for each tear. It seems I get at least three blessings for each tear!
Witness Wednesday
As I wrote above, I will not let the last failed attempt at the relationship I wanted to keep my down. Yes, there have been tears. No, I am not as strong as I would like to be since I don't want to remain close friends with this person. It is all I can do at this point to pray for the man. He is so out of touch with himself and his feelings. He finds some fantasy world to dwell in instead of reality and this world. It is sad. I hoped my love would help him. I didn't want to fix him -- just bring him back to the land of the loving after he had been hurt. Doesn't God love us back to wholeness? I gave up. I will be fine. He will have to worry about his own problems and the ramifications.
Other Stuff
I had a great dinner at my walking buddy's home last night. We always have a good evening. I got a few things done around the house before I went over.
Making some more plans for Pittsburgh this weekend. Should be fun.
Hang in there. my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Look to the skies...
Our Daily Bread
The devotional today talks about looking for Jesus to return each day. What's up with that? We all seem to have the same attitude of the folks in the New Testament, but worse! They gave up all hope of Jesus returning because it didn't happen in their lifetimes. It has been about 2000 years and he still hasn't returned!
When we were younger, time seemed to stand still when we were looking forward to something. Remember how it seemed to take FOREVER for Christmas to come each year? hehehe Summer seemed to last for YEARS! hehehe
Our waiting and longing for Christ's return is sort of like that. We know it will come. God promised it. Just like Sarah and Abraham, we can rest in God's promises whether or not we every seem them come to fruition in our lifetime!
Lord Jesus, please come soon. We realize that you want everyone to have the chance to worship you.
Teaching Tuesday
The first week of D1 was about the authority of the Bible. It was a very good lesson. It talked about the Bible being a collections of books and the types of writings in the Bible. We read some examples of letters, law, poetry, and history. It was cool looking at the different types of writings in that context. Here are some high points:
- Poetry, like the Psalms, should be read aloud to get the full impact of the styile
- Law should be read thoroughly due to the repetitive nature of the writings
- Letters should be read like you would read an email or a letter from a friend.
The other important point is about the authority of the Bible. Our book stated that the Bible is authoritative because it leads us to God, not because it is the one and only source of interaction with God. I thought that was very cool. The Bible talks about how we could fill the blue skies with above with witness and praise to God and still not have enough room for everything! Wow!
Other Stuff
I had a nice supper with a buddy last night. We hadn't talked much the past few weeks due to our busy schedules. I was a little down, so I ate too much and had a few Sangrias. I feel much better today and will move on with my life. Life is too short to stay down for long!
I decided to adjust my friendship with the person of interest I have been pursuing. He refuses to make me much of a priority in his life even though I am supposed to make him in a top priority in mine. That will not be the case any longer. My eyes are open now. I was willing to put up with the treatment because I was in love with the man. I honestly felt like God put a love for him in my heart. I have had many arguments with God about how unfair that was! Why didn't God put a love in the other man's heart for me? I am sorry that I am too weak just to be friends. Neither one of us can handle it the way we should. I told him "you don't know what you have until you lose it". He doesn't think he is losing anything except a pain in his side. Nice. I am sorry I won't be there for him as his life continues to change and as his actions continue to catch up with him. We all have to deal with karma and our sins in our lives. I see this as an opportunity to trust God more as I continue to be patient for the relationship he has planned for me.
I gathered some stuff together for the church rummage sale. I will drop that stuff off Wednesday night.
I heard back from my friend. Apparently, my old bike was easy to get back in riding condition. The new owner road it all over town on Saturday. Wonderful!
I also heard from my buddy in Pittsburgh. We are doing to try to see each other this weekend if we can work it out. He and his partner are going on vacation Monday so they may not have time to hang out. I have a very busy Saturday planned with visiting Frank Lloyd Wright homes and the Pittsburgh Pirates game. ;-) It was cool that my buddy was acquainted with a guy I met at Bear Camp in August. I am not sure how my name came up... hehehe
I heard from my nephew last night. He is enjoying school as he works on his associate degree in computer science. I am very proud of him. He said he was envious of my travels. He wants to take a break after his associate degree to take trip, maybe to NYC. I told him we could go together if he wanted and I could show him around. ;-)
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
The devotional today talks about looking for Jesus to return each day. What's up with that? We all seem to have the same attitude of the folks in the New Testament, but worse! They gave up all hope of Jesus returning because it didn't happen in their lifetimes. It has been about 2000 years and he still hasn't returned!
When we were younger, time seemed to stand still when we were looking forward to something. Remember how it seemed to take FOREVER for Christmas to come each year? hehehe Summer seemed to last for YEARS! hehehe
Our waiting and longing for Christ's return is sort of like that. We know it will come. God promised it. Just like Sarah and Abraham, we can rest in God's promises whether or not we every seem them come to fruition in our lifetime!
Lord Jesus, please come soon. We realize that you want everyone to have the chance to worship you.
Teaching Tuesday
The first week of D1 was about the authority of the Bible. It was a very good lesson. It talked about the Bible being a collections of books and the types of writings in the Bible. We read some examples of letters, law, poetry, and history. It was cool looking at the different types of writings in that context. Here are some high points:
- Poetry, like the Psalms, should be read aloud to get the full impact of the styile
- Law should be read thoroughly due to the repetitive nature of the writings
- Letters should be read like you would read an email or a letter from a friend.
The other important point is about the authority of the Bible. Our book stated that the Bible is authoritative because it leads us to God, not because it is the one and only source of interaction with God. I thought that was very cool. The Bible talks about how we could fill the blue skies with above with witness and praise to God and still not have enough room for everything! Wow!
Other Stuff
I had a nice supper with a buddy last night. We hadn't talked much the past few weeks due to our busy schedules. I was a little down, so I ate too much and had a few Sangrias. I feel much better today and will move on with my life. Life is too short to stay down for long!
I decided to adjust my friendship with the person of interest I have been pursuing. He refuses to make me much of a priority in his life even though I am supposed to make him in a top priority in mine. That will not be the case any longer. My eyes are open now. I was willing to put up with the treatment because I was in love with the man. I honestly felt like God put a love for him in my heart. I have had many arguments with God about how unfair that was! Why didn't God put a love in the other man's heart for me? I am sorry that I am too weak just to be friends. Neither one of us can handle it the way we should. I told him "you don't know what you have until you lose it". He doesn't think he is losing anything except a pain in his side. Nice. I am sorry I won't be there for him as his life continues to change and as his actions continue to catch up with him. We all have to deal with karma and our sins in our lives. I see this as an opportunity to trust God more as I continue to be patient for the relationship he has planned for me.
I gathered some stuff together for the church rummage sale. I will drop that stuff off Wednesday night.
I heard back from my friend. Apparently, my old bike was easy to get back in riding condition. The new owner road it all over town on Saturday. Wonderful!
I also heard from my buddy in Pittsburgh. We are doing to try to see each other this weekend if we can work it out. He and his partner are going on vacation Monday so they may not have time to hang out. I have a very busy Saturday planned with visiting Frank Lloyd Wright homes and the Pittsburgh Pirates game. ;-) It was cool that my buddy was acquainted with a guy I met at Bear Camp in August. I am not sure how my name came up... hehehe
I heard from my nephew last night. He is enjoying school as he works on his associate degree in computer science. I am very proud of him. He said he was envious of my travels. He wants to take a break after his associate degree to take trip, maybe to NYC. I told him we could go together if he wanted and I could show him around. ;-)
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Monday, September 19, 2011
What time is it?
Our Daily Bread
It's Howdy Doody time! Nah, I am not really that old! I remember hearing about the childrens' TV show with a rosy faced cowboy puppet named Howdy Doody. At the beginning of each show they asked: What time is it? The children would shout, whether in the audience or at home: "It's Howdy Doody time!" hehehe
Seriously, what time is it for you right now? The devotional and the passage in Ecclesiastes talk about the different times in our lives -- good, bad, weeping, dancing, etc... As I mentioned in my previous posts, I have a similar personality to David of the Old Testament. Oh, to be such a man of God! I have my ups and downs, celebrating when things go amazingly well and renting my clothes while crying out to God in other times. Being a child of God does not always mean blue skies. It means that we have someone to help us through the times when the skies are not blue! Ran can be depressing or rain can be a life saving gift depending on your point of view!
Lord, help us to praise you in all things. There is always a time for praise!
Movie Monday
I didn't make it to the movies last week. Too many things going on. I want to write about a funny observation from the Renaissance Festival on Saturday. It was Pirates Day. There were a lot of pirates costumes, which was very cool. The funniest thing I noticed is that the little kids kept calling each pirate "Captain Jack Sparrow" from the Pirates of the Caribbean movies. It appears that the character is the symbol of what a pirate is for a generation! I thought that was hilarious!
I wonder if Jack Sparrow will do for pirates what the It book by Stephen King did for clowns... Hmmmm...
Other Stuff
I had a busy day. I didn't make up for early church, but made it to church for choir practice. I also remembered to drop off the CDs to a buddy of mine. The choir sounded great yesterday morning. So did the soloist. We also had a great sermon as well.
I left church to have lunch. I planned to have Dairy Queen, but then realized I was driving near the Mr Hero restaurant on my way to Groveport. I helped some friends show a house for sale. I was glad to help.
I drove back downtown afterwards for mens' chorus rehearsal. We had a great rehearsal. I enjoyed being back with the group.
I have to admit that I have been in a valley the past week. God has been speaking to me. I have been trying to listen and obey. I really have no clue at this point. I am so tired of repeating some of my mistakes over and over. I am so confused about some things in my life. I am trying to hand them over to the Lord. I am trying so hard.... I have been confused about having faith for something to happen and being too stubborn to let something go. My faith and my stubbornness are equally as strong! hehehe Oh, for faith to take over and for my stubbornness to subside.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
It's Howdy Doody time! Nah, I am not really that old! I remember hearing about the childrens' TV show with a rosy faced cowboy puppet named Howdy Doody. At the beginning of each show they asked: What time is it? The children would shout, whether in the audience or at home: "It's Howdy Doody time!" hehehe
Seriously, what time is it for you right now? The devotional and the passage in Ecclesiastes talk about the different times in our lives -- good, bad, weeping, dancing, etc... As I mentioned in my previous posts, I have a similar personality to David of the Old Testament. Oh, to be such a man of God! I have my ups and downs, celebrating when things go amazingly well and renting my clothes while crying out to God in other times. Being a child of God does not always mean blue skies. It means that we have someone to help us through the times when the skies are not blue! Ran can be depressing or rain can be a life saving gift depending on your point of view!
Lord, help us to praise you in all things. There is always a time for praise!
Movie Monday
I didn't make it to the movies last week. Too many things going on. I want to write about a funny observation from the Renaissance Festival on Saturday. It was Pirates Day. There were a lot of pirates costumes, which was very cool. The funniest thing I noticed is that the little kids kept calling each pirate "Captain Jack Sparrow" from the Pirates of the Caribbean movies. It appears that the character is the symbol of what a pirate is for a generation! I thought that was hilarious!
I wonder if Jack Sparrow will do for pirates what the It book by Stephen King did for clowns... Hmmmm...
Other Stuff
I had a busy day. I didn't make up for early church, but made it to church for choir practice. I also remembered to drop off the CDs to a buddy of mine. The choir sounded great yesterday morning. So did the soloist. We also had a great sermon as well.
I left church to have lunch. I planned to have Dairy Queen, but then realized I was driving near the Mr Hero restaurant on my way to Groveport. I helped some friends show a house for sale. I was glad to help.
I drove back downtown afterwards for mens' chorus rehearsal. We had a great rehearsal. I enjoyed being back with the group.
I have to admit that I have been in a valley the past week. God has been speaking to me. I have been trying to listen and obey. I really have no clue at this point. I am so tired of repeating some of my mistakes over and over. I am so confused about some things in my life. I am trying to hand them over to the Lord. I am trying so hard.... I have been confused about having faith for something to happen and being too stubborn to let something go. My faith and my stubbornness are equally as strong! hehehe Oh, for faith to take over and for my stubbornness to subside.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Sunday, September 18, 2011
I want my Daddy!
Our Daily Bread
The story in the devotional was very cute -- a toddler loses sight of his father and panics. He calls out Daddy, daddy!
What do we do when we lose sight of our Heavenly Father? Do we panic? Do we even realize it sometimes? I am sure the toddler would not have called out for his father if he was 16! As folks who have been children of God for a while, we can slip away from God and not realize it. We wake up one morning to find that we feel separated and alone. We can always call out "Abba Father" to our God to bring us back in the fold. He wants to have a relationship with you if you will only let him.
Lord, I want to lift up my wants and needs and most of all, my praise to you. Thank you for being in my life!
Psalm Sunday
The psalm for this week is very familiar - the 23rd Psalm. It is probably the best known psalm. Many of us have it memorized. There are many musical arrangements of the text as well. Think back to the first time you heard this psalm. Read it again below and think about what it means to you today.
Psalm 23
A psalm of David.
1 The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
3 he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
for his name’s sake.
4 Even though I walk
through the darkest valley,[a]
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
5 You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
6 Surely your goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD
forever.
Other Stuff
I had a great, though busy, day yesterday. I got up earlier than normal for a Saturday. Dropped off my old bike to a friend in need. Drove to Harveysville, Ohio for the Renaissance Festival. Except for a few little rain drops, it was a beautiful day to be at the festival. I got to see the shows I wanted to see. Have some fair food. Saw some neat costumes.
I left the festival about 2:45 or so to get ready for the birthday party I was attending in Cincinnati. My friend Tim turned 50 yesterday. Awwww.... I stopped at a rest area to change clothes. It was cold in the morning and warm in the afternoon, so I changed into shorts and a short sleeve shirt. The party was at some friends house. They had a nice meal spread out and a beautiful cake. As friends and family came in, I realized how glad I was to be there. Timmy has always been so kind to me. He is just that kind of guy. I got him a funny card and a gift card. Both had jokes attached... ;-)
I made it home early and went to bed. I was a little nervous because the Buckeyes were losing when I listened to the game on the radio. They lost. Oh well. I don't mind them losing if they play well. Seriously, they only completed a few passes all game long! OH well. I hope they play better next week. If not, we will need to move to the MAC conference. We might have a chance to win that conference...
Going to help a friend out with a house showing this afternoon, then go to mens chorus rehearsal. Should be a good day.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
The story in the devotional was very cute -- a toddler loses sight of his father and panics. He calls out Daddy, daddy!
What do we do when we lose sight of our Heavenly Father? Do we panic? Do we even realize it sometimes? I am sure the toddler would not have called out for his father if he was 16! As folks who have been children of God for a while, we can slip away from God and not realize it. We wake up one morning to find that we feel separated and alone. We can always call out "Abba Father" to our God to bring us back in the fold. He wants to have a relationship with you if you will only let him.
Lord, I want to lift up my wants and needs and most of all, my praise to you. Thank you for being in my life!
Psalm Sunday
The psalm for this week is very familiar - the 23rd Psalm. It is probably the best known psalm. Many of us have it memorized. There are many musical arrangements of the text as well. Think back to the first time you heard this psalm. Read it again below and think about what it means to you today.
Psalm 23
A psalm of David.
1 The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
3 he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
for his name’s sake.
4 Even though I walk
through the darkest valley,[a]
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
5 You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
6 Surely your goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD
forever.
Other Stuff
I had a great, though busy, day yesterday. I got up earlier than normal for a Saturday. Dropped off my old bike to a friend in need. Drove to Harveysville, Ohio for the Renaissance Festival. Except for a few little rain drops, it was a beautiful day to be at the festival. I got to see the shows I wanted to see. Have some fair food. Saw some neat costumes.
I left the festival about 2:45 or so to get ready for the birthday party I was attending in Cincinnati. My friend Tim turned 50 yesterday. Awwww.... I stopped at a rest area to change clothes. It was cold in the morning and warm in the afternoon, so I changed into shorts and a short sleeve shirt. The party was at some friends house. They had a nice meal spread out and a beautiful cake. As friends and family came in, I realized how glad I was to be there. Timmy has always been so kind to me. He is just that kind of guy. I got him a funny card and a gift card. Both had jokes attached... ;-)
I made it home early and went to bed. I was a little nervous because the Buckeyes were losing when I listened to the game on the radio. They lost. Oh well. I don't mind them losing if they play well. Seriously, they only completed a few passes all game long! OH well. I hope they play better next week. If not, we will need to move to the MAC conference. We might have a chance to win that conference...
Going to help a friend out with a house showing this afternoon, then go to mens chorus rehearsal. Should be a good day.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Grumble, grumble
Our Daily Bread
Yes, like most human beings I know, I like to grumble at times. Not all the time. Just when I don't get what I want or think I need! hehehe
When it comes to our relationship with God, grumbling shows our lack of faith in what God has promised us. The song I posted last week called Blessings talks about that. I have been listening to it every day this week while I try to work through a grumbling phase! hehehe God promised us to meet the desires of our heart if we just trust him. It sounds so simple. We all know it is not always so simple.
Lord, I want to have faith and a spirit of thankfulness. No more grumbling!
Simply Saturday
I had a very busy day on Friday. I went to work where I found an email from the group that wanted to pick up my couch during the day instead of Friday night! We worked it out so I could work from home Friday afternoon to work into their schedule. My boss is the person who recommended me to this group, so he was supportive! The handsome young man arrived. We lugged the couch out to the truck. It is a big couch and was hard to move. I reclaimed that space in my family room now. I will probably move the other furniture around when I get the chance. I also mowed the lawn, finished painting the basement and finished laundry! Whew!
I am dropping off my bike to a friend on my way down to the Renaissance Festival. I plan to hang out at the RenFest for a while, and then drive down into Cincy for the 50th birthday party of a close buddy. He is one of the few folks that I still keep in touch with from Cincy (I lived there for 3.5 years before I moved to Columbus). I am looking forward to the day.
Sunday will be busy as well. Church, then help out a friend showing a house, then mens chorus rehearsal. Busy day. I like busy!
I will post the first lesson from D1 on Tuesday.
I doubt I will get to see a movie this week. I will review an old one. ;-)
God is so good. My prayer is that you find his goodness in your life.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady That is what I do...
Yes, like most human beings I know, I like to grumble at times. Not all the time. Just when I don't get what I want or think I need! hehehe
When it comes to our relationship with God, grumbling shows our lack of faith in what God has promised us. The song I posted last week called Blessings talks about that. I have been listening to it every day this week while I try to work through a grumbling phase! hehehe God promised us to meet the desires of our heart if we just trust him. It sounds so simple. We all know it is not always so simple.
Lord, I want to have faith and a spirit of thankfulness. No more grumbling!
Simply Saturday
I had a very busy day on Friday. I went to work where I found an email from the group that wanted to pick up my couch during the day instead of Friday night! We worked it out so I could work from home Friday afternoon to work into their schedule. My boss is the person who recommended me to this group, so he was supportive! The handsome young man arrived. We lugged the couch out to the truck. It is a big couch and was hard to move. I reclaimed that space in my family room now. I will probably move the other furniture around when I get the chance. I also mowed the lawn, finished painting the basement and finished laundry! Whew!
I am dropping off my bike to a friend on my way down to the Renaissance Festival. I plan to hang out at the RenFest for a while, and then drive down into Cincy for the 50th birthday party of a close buddy. He is one of the few folks that I still keep in touch with from Cincy (I lived there for 3.5 years before I moved to Columbus). I am looking forward to the day.
Sunday will be busy as well. Church, then help out a friend showing a house, then mens chorus rehearsal. Busy day. I like busy!
I will post the first lesson from D1 on Tuesday.
I doubt I will get to see a movie this week. I will review an old one. ;-)
God is so good. My prayer is that you find his goodness in your life.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady That is what I do...
Friday, September 16, 2011
Armor bearer
Our Daily Bread
I am not usually a fan of military related analogies any where, but I sort of liked the one from today's devotional. I liked it because it represented a brave person standing behind a brave leader. The devotional went on to say that churches need brave followers of brave leaders in our churches today. Very cool!
Our church is taking nominations for leadership roles right now. I have been praying about whether or not to submit my name (to volunteer). After reading the devotional, I decided to not submit my own name. If someone else nominates me and I am selected, then I will be happy to serve. If not, then I will be a brave armor bearer!
Lord, it takes all kinds of people for your kingdom on earth to work!
Foodie Friday
Here is the carrot salad recipe that I made for my dinner group last Sunday. Everyone seemed to like it.
Serves 4
Enjoy the vibrant, sweet flavor of this inventive take on the common version of carrot and raisin salad. Almond butter combines with lime juice, tamari and agave nectar to coat the carrots, red bell pepper, cilantro and raisins. A delightfully different side for any summer outing.
Ingredients
2 large carrots, peeled
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1/4 cup minced fresh cilantro
1/2 cup raisins
1/4 cup creamy almond butter
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1 1/2 tablespoons reduced-sodium tamari
1 teaspoon agave nectar
Pinch of red pepper flakes
Method
Using a box grater, shred carrots and place in a large bowl. Add bell pepper, cilantro and raisins. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond butter, lime juice, tamari, agave and pepper flakes. Add dressing to carrot mixture and mix thoroughly. Allow to marinate for 30 minutes and serve chilled or at room temperature.
I used the matchstick carrots from the grocery instead of shredding my own. I recommend marinating them longer than 30 minutes, but that is OK if you are short on time.
Other Stuff
I went to the gym after work last night. I did a new exercise. I didn't do very many reps, however, I apparently used some muscles I didn't know I had! I was moving slow after dinner! I went back to Oodles for supper and then worked on my D1 readings while waiting for Chancel Choir rehearsal to start.
Choir rehearsal was fun. I liked sight reading. ;-)
I have a lot of chores to do on Friday night so I can do other stuff all weekend. Same with next week!
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
I am not usually a fan of military related analogies any where, but I sort of liked the one from today's devotional. I liked it because it represented a brave person standing behind a brave leader. The devotional went on to say that churches need brave followers of brave leaders in our churches today. Very cool!
Our church is taking nominations for leadership roles right now. I have been praying about whether or not to submit my name (to volunteer). After reading the devotional, I decided to not submit my own name. If someone else nominates me and I am selected, then I will be happy to serve. If not, then I will be a brave armor bearer!
Lord, it takes all kinds of people for your kingdom on earth to work!
Foodie Friday
Here is the carrot salad recipe that I made for my dinner group last Sunday. Everyone seemed to like it.
CARROT SALAD WITH ALMOND BUTTER DRESSING
Serves 4
Enjoy the vibrant, sweet flavor of this inventive take on the common version of carrot and raisin salad. Almond butter combines with lime juice, tamari and agave nectar to coat the carrots, red bell pepper, cilantro and raisins. A delightfully different side for any summer outing.
Ingredients
2 large carrots, peeled
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1/4 cup minced fresh cilantro
1/2 cup raisins
1/4 cup creamy almond butter
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1 1/2 tablespoons reduced-sodium tamari
1 teaspoon agave nectar
Pinch of red pepper flakes
Method
Using a box grater, shred carrots and place in a large bowl. Add bell pepper, cilantro and raisins. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond butter, lime juice, tamari, agave and pepper flakes. Add dressing to carrot mixture and mix thoroughly. Allow to marinate for 30 minutes and serve chilled or at room temperature.
I used the matchstick carrots from the grocery instead of shredding my own. I recommend marinating them longer than 30 minutes, but that is OK if you are short on time.
Other Stuff
I went to the gym after work last night. I did a new exercise. I didn't do very many reps, however, I apparently used some muscles I didn't know I had! I was moving slow after dinner! I went back to Oodles for supper and then worked on my D1 readings while waiting for Chancel Choir rehearsal to start.
Choir rehearsal was fun. I liked sight reading. ;-)
I have a lot of chores to do on Friday night so I can do other stuff all weekend. Same with next week!
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Thursday, September 15, 2011
The yoke is on me....
Our Daily Bread
Yes, I remember a silly joke from my childhood when I accidentally dropped an egg that splattered all over me. The joke was "I guess the yoke is on me!" hehehe
There is a different kind of yoke that Jesus wants to remove from our shoulders -- the yoke of worry, cares and pain. Many of these things we cause to happen. Many times things just happen to us. Regardless of the source, Jesus is there to take our yoke upon his broad shoulders if we can just turn it over to him.
I have a tendency to hold these things tightly to my broad shoulders only to buckle under the weight and strain. As I mentioned earlier this week, I had to "give up" on a relationship I have wanted for a few years now. Every time I try to give it over to the Lord, I fail miserably. I quickly pull it back on myself and then stumble under its weight and strain again and again. Will I give it over to God this time? He keeps sending me messages of peace and encouragement through situations in my life and songs. I love songs, like the one I posted yesterday. ;-) Whatever way that it takes for God to get through to you, be thankful that he can and will if you let him.
Lord, I thank you for never letting me walk alone. I can rest on your Word and rely on your promises.
Technology Thursday
Not much going on in the technology world. Heavy sigh. Here are a few things I gleaned from my readings.
New Samsung phone
The Samsung Galaxy S II phone, which will go by different names at the different carriers, will be released on Sprint on September 16. It will be release to other carriers in a few weeks. Very, very nice phone. Take a look at it here.
iPad sale
Hmmmm, I received two emails regarding $50 off the second generation iPad models. This usually happens right before the new models come out. Hmmmmm....
Apple announcement - none!
STILL haven't heard anything from Apple on the next iPhone release. What's up with that?
Thunderbolt
Apple introduced a new standard for interfacing with a computer called Thunderbolt. It is faster than USB 2.0 AND USB 3.0! There were some news articles about how this technology may find its way into PCs (and not just Macs). Could this be the new standard for a port on a computer? We will see.
Other Stuff
I went to the gym last night after work. I had a heck of a time keeping my blood sugar up right before and during my workout! That is unusual. I can usually eat something before the workout and be OK. I had to eat a lot! OH well. I got my workout in, but felt like I had to eat soon after. To make matters worse, I had some gastric discomfort that was very uncomfortable. I was embarrassed to use the wormens restroom at the restaurant because the mens room was out of order! Whew! My blood sugar remained up for the evening and was fine this morning when I awoke.
I had an awkward situation happen at the restaurant. I was probably just overreacting. I can do that at times when it comes to some people I ate my supper. Ran a quick errand to Giant Eagle. Got to church early so I could pray about the situation.
Disciple 1 started last night. This will be a good group. I need to recognize my role as a class member and not try to lead (like I tried to do a little last night). I can do this. There are so many people in the class that need to talk openly. I need to be quiet. I can do this. Yes, I can do this.
I worked on my song again last night. I will probably sing it when I do my devotion in D1 in two weeks. I will keep working on it. There are a few spots I need to work out. I usually learn best reading music. I am working on learning better when just listening and remembering.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do....
Yes, I remember a silly joke from my childhood when I accidentally dropped an egg that splattered all over me. The joke was "I guess the yoke is on me!" hehehe
There is a different kind of yoke that Jesus wants to remove from our shoulders -- the yoke of worry, cares and pain. Many of these things we cause to happen. Many times things just happen to us. Regardless of the source, Jesus is there to take our yoke upon his broad shoulders if we can just turn it over to him.
I have a tendency to hold these things tightly to my broad shoulders only to buckle under the weight and strain. As I mentioned earlier this week, I had to "give up" on a relationship I have wanted for a few years now. Every time I try to give it over to the Lord, I fail miserably. I quickly pull it back on myself and then stumble under its weight and strain again and again. Will I give it over to God this time? He keeps sending me messages of peace and encouragement through situations in my life and songs. I love songs, like the one I posted yesterday. ;-) Whatever way that it takes for God to get through to you, be thankful that he can and will if you let him.
Lord, I thank you for never letting me walk alone. I can rest on your Word and rely on your promises.
Technology Thursday
Not much going on in the technology world. Heavy sigh. Here are a few things I gleaned from my readings.
New Samsung phone
The Samsung Galaxy S II phone, which will go by different names at the different carriers, will be released on Sprint on September 16. It will be release to other carriers in a few weeks. Very, very nice phone. Take a look at it here.
iPad sale
Hmmmm, I received two emails regarding $50 off the second generation iPad models. This usually happens right before the new models come out. Hmmmmm....
Apple announcement - none!
STILL haven't heard anything from Apple on the next iPhone release. What's up with that?
Thunderbolt
Apple introduced a new standard for interfacing with a computer called Thunderbolt. It is faster than USB 2.0 AND USB 3.0! There were some news articles about how this technology may find its way into PCs (and not just Macs). Could this be the new standard for a port on a computer? We will see.
Other Stuff
I went to the gym last night after work. I had a heck of a time keeping my blood sugar up right before and during my workout! That is unusual. I can usually eat something before the workout and be OK. I had to eat a lot! OH well. I got my workout in, but felt like I had to eat soon after. To make matters worse, I had some gastric discomfort that was very uncomfortable. I was embarrassed to use the wormens restroom at the restaurant because the mens room was out of order! Whew! My blood sugar remained up for the evening and was fine this morning when I awoke.
I had an awkward situation happen at the restaurant. I was probably just overreacting. I can do that at times when it comes to some people I ate my supper. Ran a quick errand to Giant Eagle. Got to church early so I could pray about the situation.
Disciple 1 started last night. This will be a good group. I need to recognize my role as a class member and not try to lead (like I tried to do a little last night). I can do this. There are so many people in the class that need to talk openly. I need to be quiet. I can do this. Yes, I can do this.
I worked on my song again last night. I will probably sing it when I do my devotion in D1 in two weeks. I will keep working on it. There are a few spots I need to work out. I usually learn best reading music. I am working on learning better when just listening and remembering.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do....
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Fallen and can't get up...
Our Daily Bread
The story of Saul is like a reality TV show, only it happened thousands of years ago! ;-)
The point of today's devotional is to follow this simple verse no matter what position you have in life (Mark 12:30):
And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ This is the first commandment.
How much simpler does it get? Walk humbly with your God. If you truly love him, he will help you love yourself appropriately. By appropriately, I mean to love yourself enough to take care of yourself and others, but not too much where you are "full of yourself" like Saul of the Old Testament Israel!
Lord, you build me up only to remind me to remain humble.
Witness Wednesday
Wow! God has been talking to me this week! I am exhausted! hehehe To give you an example of how God works, he told me not to attach my iPod to the stereo in my Escape after I returned from Vegas. I have been listening to the local Christian radio station instead of my iPod. On the way home last night, I heard a new song that touched me so deeply that I almost had to pull over to the curb! It is called Blessings by Laura Story. Here are the lyrics:
We pray for blessings
We pray for peace
Comfort for family, protection while we sleep
We pray for healing, for prosperity
We pray for Your mighty hand to ease our suffering
All the while, You hear each spoken need
Yet love us way too much to give us lesser things
'Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You’re near
What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise
We pray for wisdom
Your voice to hear
And we cry in anger when we cannot feel You near
We doubt Your goodness, we doubt Your love
As if every promise from Your Word is not enough
All the while, You hear each desperate plea
And long that we'd have faith to believe
'Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You’re near
And what if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise
When friends betray us
When darkness seems to win
We know the pain reminds this heart
That this is not, this is not our home
It's not our home
'Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
And what if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You’re near
What if my greatest disappointments
Or the aching(s) of this life
Is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can’t satisfy
And what if trials of this life
The rain, the storms, the hardest nights
Are Your mercies in disguise
Other Stuff
I dropped by the R Bar for a little while last night to hang out with my coworkers. I rarely do that, so I wanted to make the effort. We had a nice time. It was a nice night for it.
I did a few things around the house when I got home. I put the first coat of paint on the wall in the basement. I decided to paint the whole thing the dark brown color that I have in my bedroom. It matches the paneling down there very well. I initially planned to paint one section of the wall the brownish taupe color that I have in most of my house. I decided against that. I will try to put the second coat of paint on tonight after my Disciple 1 (D1) class. We are supposed to have a short class tonight.
Yes, D1 starts tonight and runs through May. Yes, I said May! We have a few breaks for holidays. I am looking forward to the class. We will probably read about 75% of the Bible during the class! I purchased the NRSV (New Revised Standard Version) of the Bible for my iPad the other day in preparation. I used a different version in the D2 class. This one will be an easier read. I also found a couple of commentaries that may be of use. Very cool.
I looked at my schedule for the next few weeks. Whew... Fall has fallen! I like being busy, though, so I am looking forward to it. I plan to work out at the gym tonight before having a quick supper and going to the D1 class at church.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
The story of Saul is like a reality TV show, only it happened thousands of years ago! ;-)
The point of today's devotional is to follow this simple verse no matter what position you have in life (Mark 12:30):
And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ This is the first commandment.
How much simpler does it get? Walk humbly with your God. If you truly love him, he will help you love yourself appropriately. By appropriately, I mean to love yourself enough to take care of yourself and others, but not too much where you are "full of yourself" like Saul of the Old Testament Israel!
Lord, you build me up only to remind me to remain humble.
Witness Wednesday
Wow! God has been talking to me this week! I am exhausted! hehehe To give you an example of how God works, he told me not to attach my iPod to the stereo in my Escape after I returned from Vegas. I have been listening to the local Christian radio station instead of my iPod. On the way home last night, I heard a new song that touched me so deeply that I almost had to pull over to the curb! It is called Blessings by Laura Story. Here are the lyrics:
We pray for blessings
We pray for peace
Comfort for family, protection while we sleep
We pray for healing, for prosperity
We pray for Your mighty hand to ease our suffering
All the while, You hear each spoken need
Yet love us way too much to give us lesser things
'Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You’re near
What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise
We pray for wisdom
Your voice to hear
And we cry in anger when we cannot feel You near
We doubt Your goodness, we doubt Your love
As if every promise from Your Word is not enough
All the while, You hear each desperate plea
And long that we'd have faith to believe
'Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You’re near
And what if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise
When friends betray us
When darkness seems to win
We know the pain reminds this heart
That this is not, this is not our home
It's not our home
'Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
And what if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You’re near
What if my greatest disappointments
Or the aching(s) of this life
Is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can’t satisfy
And what if trials of this life
The rain, the storms, the hardest nights
Are Your mercies in disguise
I bought the track on iTunes and then bought the performance track as well. I sang through it many times last night, but couldn't get through the whole song without breaking down into tears. I have been praying for what to do with some things in my life. The song describes exactly what I have been going through. I have to be honest. I have been doubting. I forgot all the promises in God's Word when it comes to some areas of my life and desires of my heart.
There are many amazing lines in this song to me. One favorite is the last line of the first verse:
"Yet love us way too much to give us lesser things" How many times do we dwell in the land of "lesser things"? I will think and pray about that this week. I hope you will too.
Other Stuff
I dropped by the R Bar for a little while last night to hang out with my coworkers. I rarely do that, so I wanted to make the effort. We had a nice time. It was a nice night for it.
I did a few things around the house when I got home. I put the first coat of paint on the wall in the basement. I decided to paint the whole thing the dark brown color that I have in my bedroom. It matches the paneling down there very well. I initially planned to paint one section of the wall the brownish taupe color that I have in most of my house. I decided against that. I will try to put the second coat of paint on tonight after my Disciple 1 (D1) class. We are supposed to have a short class tonight.
Yes, D1 starts tonight and runs through May. Yes, I said May! We have a few breaks for holidays. I am looking forward to the class. We will probably read about 75% of the Bible during the class! I purchased the NRSV (New Revised Standard Version) of the Bible for my iPad the other day in preparation. I used a different version in the D2 class. This one will be an easier read. I also found a couple of commentaries that may be of use. Very cool.
I looked at my schedule for the next few weeks. Whew... Fall has fallen! I like being busy, though, so I am looking forward to it. I plan to work out at the gym tonight before having a quick supper and going to the D1 class at church.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Vegas pics
The original Vegas sign
Wasabi encrusted Filet at Tao
Picture of the Hoover Dam and the new bridge build near it
Wonderful steak and potatoes gratin at craftSteak
Some very cool shots of Vegas at night
Cool sushi at RM Seafood
Picture of the Hoover Dam and the new bridge build near it
Wonderful steak and potatoes gratin at craftSteak
Some very cool shots of Vegas at night
Character flaw...
Our Daily Bread
The story of Job is one of my favorite Bible stories. A man with much to lose lost it all because Satan challenged God on Job's faithfulness. Job passed the ultimate test by continuing his faith in God even though he lost everything except for his life! Could we do that?
Job retained his faithful character in the face of adversity. Our character is challenged every day in so many ways. The way we treat someone who cuts us off in traffic. The way we return (or don't return) the wrong amount of change when the cashier makes a mistake. Choosing to tell the truth even when it makes us look bad.
I had a friend ask me "so what did you do in Vegas that you will leave in Vegas?" hehehe I am thankful to say that I followed my plan. I gambled a little bit. I remained chaste even though I had chances to have casual sex. I was nice most of the time, though I got a little testy with a TSA person at the airport on the way home. I was exhausted by then, though that was no excuse.
Lord, I want to remain faithful in every way, every day. I will ask for forgiveness when I fail and I will forgive myself.
Teaching Tuesday
I give up...
I learned an important lesson this week. Thank God! Here is the story. I awoke about 3:30 am Monday morning after having a vivid dream. I was walking and running the wrong way on a moving sidewalk (remember I was at airports a lot last week!). A special person was at the end of the sidewalk, but I could not reach him no matter how fast I walked or ran. Exhausted, I finally had to give up. That is when I woke up!
God has been trying to get me to let go of some things. I finally realized it several weeks ago, but my actions haven't been matching up with the things God laid on my heart and mind. My actions need to match up now. They have to. I am exhausted by pursuing this relationship. God asked me to turn it over to him. I have been trying, but not really turning it over. I talked with this special person last night to let him know about the dream. I wanted him to know what I was feeling. Things will change. I feel a great peace about this. Can my actions finally match up with what God laid on my heart and mind?
I also let him know two things: I hope he finds what he is looking for and you sometimes don't realize what you have until you lose it. It is hard to identify what you are looking for if you really don't know! I pray that he figures that out. Secondly, life can be like pieces on a Monopoly board sometimes. You think you understand the role a property or thing or person plays in your life, but you don't realize it completely until you lose it. I hope he figures out what he lost by me moving on.
I left the door open if he wants to ask me out sometime. He must be sure he wants to pursue a relationship with me before I will consider a date.
God knows the desires of my heart much better than what I do. I have learned that I must have a life partner that can share my spiritual life. An acquaintance recently said "God doesn't bring two people together to make them whole, rather to make them holy". I know God will lead me to a man who I can pray with and share things with like I do this special friend. Praise God!
Other Stuff
I had a good session with my counselor last night. We talked about matching my actions with the things God laid on my mind and heart. I am so thankful for being able to talk to him about these things!
I did a couple of things when I got home and then went to bed.
I had a good walk at lunch yesterday. That felt good. I hope to walk with my walking buddy at lunch today. I missed her last week!
I am not sure what I will do tonight. We have a social after work. I may need to help a friend move. I need to do some painting at home.
I figured out that the next few weekends will be very busy. I didn't plan it that way initially, but it should be fun. ;-)
I still need to post some Vegas pics. I will do that, I promise.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
The story of Job is one of my favorite Bible stories. A man with much to lose lost it all because Satan challenged God on Job's faithfulness. Job passed the ultimate test by continuing his faith in God even though he lost everything except for his life! Could we do that?
Job retained his faithful character in the face of adversity. Our character is challenged every day in so many ways. The way we treat someone who cuts us off in traffic. The way we return (or don't return) the wrong amount of change when the cashier makes a mistake. Choosing to tell the truth even when it makes us look bad.
I had a friend ask me "so what did you do in Vegas that you will leave in Vegas?" hehehe I am thankful to say that I followed my plan. I gambled a little bit. I remained chaste even though I had chances to have casual sex. I was nice most of the time, though I got a little testy with a TSA person at the airport on the way home. I was exhausted by then, though that was no excuse.
Lord, I want to remain faithful in every way, every day. I will ask for forgiveness when I fail and I will forgive myself.
Teaching Tuesday
I give up...
I learned an important lesson this week. Thank God! Here is the story. I awoke about 3:30 am Monday morning after having a vivid dream. I was walking and running the wrong way on a moving sidewalk (remember I was at airports a lot last week!). A special person was at the end of the sidewalk, but I could not reach him no matter how fast I walked or ran. Exhausted, I finally had to give up. That is when I woke up!
God has been trying to get me to let go of some things. I finally realized it several weeks ago, but my actions haven't been matching up with the things God laid on my heart and mind. My actions need to match up now. They have to. I am exhausted by pursuing this relationship. God asked me to turn it over to him. I have been trying, but not really turning it over. I talked with this special person last night to let him know about the dream. I wanted him to know what I was feeling. Things will change. I feel a great peace about this. Can my actions finally match up with what God laid on my heart and mind?
I also let him know two things: I hope he finds what he is looking for and you sometimes don't realize what you have until you lose it. It is hard to identify what you are looking for if you really don't know! I pray that he figures that out. Secondly, life can be like pieces on a Monopoly board sometimes. You think you understand the role a property or thing or person plays in your life, but you don't realize it completely until you lose it. I hope he figures out what he lost by me moving on.
I left the door open if he wants to ask me out sometime. He must be sure he wants to pursue a relationship with me before I will consider a date.
God knows the desires of my heart much better than what I do. I have learned that I must have a life partner that can share my spiritual life. An acquaintance recently said "God doesn't bring two people together to make them whole, rather to make them holy". I know God will lead me to a man who I can pray with and share things with like I do this special friend. Praise God!
Other Stuff
I had a good session with my counselor last night. We talked about matching my actions with the things God laid on my mind and heart. I am so thankful for being able to talk to him about these things!
I did a couple of things when I got home and then went to bed.
I had a good walk at lunch yesterday. That felt good. I hope to walk with my walking buddy at lunch today. I missed her last week!
I am not sure what I will do tonight. We have a social after work. I may need to help a friend move. I need to do some painting at home.
I figured out that the next few weekends will be very busy. I didn't plan it that way initially, but it should be fun. ;-)
I still need to post some Vegas pics. I will do that, I promise.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Monday, September 12, 2011
Thy will be done on earth...
Our Daily Bread
I have a tendency to focus on one line in the Lord's prayer whenever I recite it because I think we put the emphasis on the wrong words "thy will be done on EARTH as it is in heaven". We usually say it "they will be done... on earth as it is in heaven". I think it means more that we emphasize that we want God's will be done in this world as well as in heaven!
While there is much debate on what and where heaven is, I don't care. I believe, and apparently Paul does as well in the scripture passage from I Corinthians, that children of God will be with him in heaven after we die. Who will make it to heaven? The best answer I heard is "I am sure God's decision on that topic will be the right one!". Who can dispute the almighty God?
Lord, thank you for the promise of heaven. Help me make your will be done on earthy while I wait for heaven!
Movie Monday
I went to see the movie Warrior yesterday. I liked it a lot. It was sort of a modern day Rocky type of story. The story is set on the east coast where a promoter organizes a winner take all MMA fight of the 16 baddest men on the planet. It appears that two brothers are two of the participants. One is an overwhelming favorite after crushing his first few opponents. The other one is the perennial underdog as he scraps past his opponents. There is a lot of family drama throughout with Nick Nolte playing the father of the brothers. It is very exciting. It is not for the squeamish or those who don't like violence (it is MMA for goodness sake!).
I give this movie two bear paws. You can rent this one unless you have to see it soon!
Other Stuff
I had a good day on Sunday. I attended both church services. I got to sing in the chancel choir. I delivered some Ethel M chocolates from Vegas to a close friend. I took a nap. I made my carrot salad for the church dinner group. I had a great time with my church dinner group, as usual. I thought last month was my last time with them, but I found out a few weeks ago that the mens chorus doesn't actually start rehearsals until next Sunday. ;-p
I had an epiphany very early this morning. I am praying about whether or not I should talk to my close friend about it. I will figure that out today.
Back to work and my routine. Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
I have a tendency to focus on one line in the Lord's prayer whenever I recite it because I think we put the emphasis on the wrong words "thy will be done on EARTH as it is in heaven". We usually say it "they will be done... on earth as it is in heaven". I think it means more that we emphasize that we want God's will be done in this world as well as in heaven!
While there is much debate on what and where heaven is, I don't care. I believe, and apparently Paul does as well in the scripture passage from I Corinthians, that children of God will be with him in heaven after we die. Who will make it to heaven? The best answer I heard is "I am sure God's decision on that topic will be the right one!". Who can dispute the almighty God?
Lord, thank you for the promise of heaven. Help me make your will be done on earthy while I wait for heaven!
Movie Monday
I went to see the movie Warrior yesterday. I liked it a lot. It was sort of a modern day Rocky type of story. The story is set on the east coast where a promoter organizes a winner take all MMA fight of the 16 baddest men on the planet. It appears that two brothers are two of the participants. One is an overwhelming favorite after crushing his first few opponents. The other one is the perennial underdog as he scraps past his opponents. There is a lot of family drama throughout with Nick Nolte playing the father of the brothers. It is very exciting. It is not for the squeamish or those who don't like violence (it is MMA for goodness sake!).
I give this movie two bear paws. You can rent this one unless you have to see it soon!
Other Stuff
I had a good day on Sunday. I attended both church services. I got to sing in the chancel choir. I delivered some Ethel M chocolates from Vegas to a close friend. I took a nap. I made my carrot salad for the church dinner group. I had a great time with my church dinner group, as usual. I thought last month was my last time with them, but I found out a few weeks ago that the mens chorus doesn't actually start rehearsals until next Sunday. ;-p
I had an epiphany very early this morning. I am praying about whether or not I should talk to my close friend about it. I will figure that out today.
Back to work and my routine. Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Sunday, September 11, 2011
9/11
Our Daily Bread
I was very proud of the way our ministers handled the worship services this morning considering today is the tenth anniversary of the 9/11 events that changed our country. I remember where I was and who I was with that day. Most folks do. I hope it is the only event like that in my lifetime!
The point of the today's devotional is simple: yes, God does allow suffering, however, he offers much more in comfort than we could ever imagine suffering! God can use any circumstance in our lives to offer us peace and comfort and love if we are only open to it. I know I am not always open to God's love and healing in my life. It feels too raw and tender to let anyone in at times. I think we all know how that feels. The best part is that God understands more than anyone else. He can also give more than advice -- he offers healing and wholeness as well!
Lord, I want to always remember history so I am not doomed to repeat it!
Psalm Sunday
Psalm 22 is the psalm for this week. I told a friend recently that my personality is much more like David's than like some of the New Testament writers like Luke. I feel the highs and lows that David writes about in his music, though I try to be as upbeat and steady as I can in my daily life. I cry out to God because I feel like he doesn't listen to me at times. He always listens. He always answers. He will for you as well!
Psalm 22
For the director of music. To the tune of “The Doe of the Morning.” A psalm of David.
1 My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?
Why are you so far from saving me,
so far from my cries of anguish?
2 My God, I cry out by day, but you do not answer,
by night, but I find no rest.
3 Yet you are enthroned as the Holy One;
you are the one Israel praises.
4 In you our ancestors put their trust;
they trusted and you delivered them.
5 To you they cried out and were saved;
in you they trusted and were not put to shame.
6 But I am a worm and not a man,
scorned by everyone, despised by the people.
7 All who see me mock me;
they hurl insults, shaking their heads.
8 “He trusts in the LORD,” they say,
“let the LORD rescue him.
Let him deliver him,
since he delights in him.”
9 Yet you brought me out of the womb;
you made me trust in you, even at my mother’s breast.
10 From birth I was cast on you;
from my mother’s womb you have been my God.
11 Do not be far from me,
for trouble is near
and there is no one to help.
12 Many bulls surround me;
strong bulls of Bashan encircle me.
13 Roaring lions that tear their prey
open their mouths wide against me.
14 I am poured out like water,
and all my bones are out of joint.
My heart has turned to wax;
it has melted within me.
15 My mouth is dried up like a potsherd,
and my tongue sticks to the roof of my mouth;
you lay me in the dust of death.
16 Dogs surround me,
a pack of villains encircles me;
they pierce my hands and my feet.
17 All my bones are on display;
people stare and gloat over me.
18 They divide my clothes among them
and cast lots for my garment.
19 But you, LORD, do not be far from me.
You are my strength; come quickly to help me.
20 Deliver me from the sword,
my precious life from the power of the dogs.
21 Rescue me from the mouth of the lions;
save me from the horns of the wild oxen.
22 I will declare your name to my people;
in the assembly I will praise you.
23 You who fear the LORD, praise him!
All you descendants of Jacob, honor him!
Revere him, all you descendants of Israel!
24 For he has not despised or scorned
the suffering of the afflicted one;
he has not hidden his face from him
but has listened to his cry for help.
25 From you comes the theme of my praise in the great assembly;
before those who fear you I will fulfill my vows.
26 The poor will eat and be satisfied;
those who seek the LORD will praise him—
may your hearts live forever!
27 All the ends of the earth
will remember and turn to the LORD,
and all the families of the nations
will bow down before him,
28 for dominion belongs to the LORD
and he rules over the nations.
29 All the rich of the earth will feast and worship;
all who go down to the dust will kneel before him—
those who cannot keep themselves alive.
30 Posterity will serve him;
future generations will be told about the Lord.
31 They will proclaim his righteousness,
declaring to a people yet unborn:
He has done it!
Other Stuff
I am still recovering from my Vegas trip and from the stuff I have been doing since I got home! I slept about 11.5 hours last night. Will take a short nap today before getting ready for dinner group tonight.
I have a busy week planned. Very cool.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
I was very proud of the way our ministers handled the worship services this morning considering today is the tenth anniversary of the 9/11 events that changed our country. I remember where I was and who I was with that day. Most folks do. I hope it is the only event like that in my lifetime!
The point of the today's devotional is simple: yes, God does allow suffering, however, he offers much more in comfort than we could ever imagine suffering! God can use any circumstance in our lives to offer us peace and comfort and love if we are only open to it. I know I am not always open to God's love and healing in my life. It feels too raw and tender to let anyone in at times. I think we all know how that feels. The best part is that God understands more than anyone else. He can also give more than advice -- he offers healing and wholeness as well!
Lord, I want to always remember history so I am not doomed to repeat it!
Psalm Sunday
Psalm 22 is the psalm for this week. I told a friend recently that my personality is much more like David's than like some of the New Testament writers like Luke. I feel the highs and lows that David writes about in his music, though I try to be as upbeat and steady as I can in my daily life. I cry out to God because I feel like he doesn't listen to me at times. He always listens. He always answers. He will for you as well!
Psalm 22
For the director of music. To the tune of “The Doe of the Morning.” A psalm of David.
1 My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?
Why are you so far from saving me,
so far from my cries of anguish?
2 My God, I cry out by day, but you do not answer,
by night, but I find no rest.
3 Yet you are enthroned as the Holy One;
you are the one Israel praises.
4 In you our ancestors put their trust;
they trusted and you delivered them.
5 To you they cried out and were saved;
in you they trusted and were not put to shame.
6 But I am a worm and not a man,
scorned by everyone, despised by the people.
7 All who see me mock me;
they hurl insults, shaking their heads.
8 “He trusts in the LORD,” they say,
“let the LORD rescue him.
Let him deliver him,
since he delights in him.”
9 Yet you brought me out of the womb;
you made me trust in you, even at my mother’s breast.
10 From birth I was cast on you;
from my mother’s womb you have been my God.
11 Do not be far from me,
for trouble is near
and there is no one to help.
12 Many bulls surround me;
strong bulls of Bashan encircle me.
13 Roaring lions that tear their prey
open their mouths wide against me.
14 I am poured out like water,
and all my bones are out of joint.
My heart has turned to wax;
it has melted within me.
15 My mouth is dried up like a potsherd,
and my tongue sticks to the roof of my mouth;
you lay me in the dust of death.
16 Dogs surround me,
a pack of villains encircles me;
they pierce my hands and my feet.
17 All my bones are on display;
people stare and gloat over me.
18 They divide my clothes among them
and cast lots for my garment.
19 But you, LORD, do not be far from me.
You are my strength; come quickly to help me.
20 Deliver me from the sword,
my precious life from the power of the dogs.
21 Rescue me from the mouth of the lions;
save me from the horns of the wild oxen.
22 I will declare your name to my people;
in the assembly I will praise you.
23 You who fear the LORD, praise him!
All you descendants of Jacob, honor him!
Revere him, all you descendants of Israel!
24 For he has not despised or scorned
the suffering of the afflicted one;
he has not hidden his face from him
but has listened to his cry for help.
25 From you comes the theme of my praise in the great assembly;
before those who fear you I will fulfill my vows.
26 The poor will eat and be satisfied;
those who seek the LORD will praise him—
may your hearts live forever!
27 All the ends of the earth
will remember and turn to the LORD,
and all the families of the nations
will bow down before him,
28 for dominion belongs to the LORD
and he rules over the nations.
29 All the rich of the earth will feast and worship;
all who go down to the dust will kneel before him—
those who cannot keep themselves alive.
30 Posterity will serve him;
future generations will be told about the Lord.
31 They will proclaim his righteousness,
declaring to a people yet unborn:
He has done it!
Other Stuff
I am still recovering from my Vegas trip and from the stuff I have been doing since I got home! I slept about 11.5 hours last night. Will take a short nap today before getting ready for dinner group tonight.
I have a busy week planned. Very cool.
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Saturday morning
Most of my chores are done now. I still need to do a little cleaning around the house and put the last load of laundry away. I will do that this afternoon. I want to see the movie Warrior this morning. ;-)
Overall, I had a great time in Vegas. The highlights were the shows, the spa and the great meals. The low points were adjusting to the time change, the heat and being there alone. Vegas is not a "travel there by yourself" kind of place. I felt it a lot during the week. That kind of stuff doesn't usually bother me at all. It sure did this week. Oh well. This, too, shall pass.
I will write more later and start back on my normal schedule. I will also post some pictures.
Hang in there, my friends. I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Overall, I had a great time in Vegas. The highlights were the shows, the spa and the great meals. The low points were adjusting to the time change, the heat and being there alone. Vegas is not a "travel there by yourself" kind of place. I felt it a lot during the week. That kind of stuff doesn't usually bother me at all. It sure did this week. Oh well. This, too, shall pass.
I will write more later and start back on my normal schedule. I will also post some pictures.
Hang in there, my friends. I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Friday morning
I slept the entire flight from Las Vegas to Atlanta. I had a very short layover and then the flight to Columbus. The weather change and the time change were significant! It is good to be home. I want to get laundry and chores done today so I can relax on Saturday. I managed to sleep about five hours before starting chores.
Thursday night
I had a nice meal at craftsteak, and then went to see the show Ka. The folks at craftsteak weren't particularly friendly, but the food was very good. I will post some picks when I get home.
Ka was sort of odd at first, but it broke out into something that was pure Cirque! The special effects were incredible. The stunts were very good once you got to see them. I didn't quite "get" the first part of the show. Oh well.
I lucked out and found a $6 shuttle to the airport. Woohooooo! Time to fly home!
Ka was sort of odd at first, but it broke out into something that was pure Cirque! The special effects were incredible. The stunts were very good once you got to see them. I didn't quite "get" the first part of the show. Oh well.
I lucked out and found a $6 shuttle to the airport. Woohooooo! Time to fly home!
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Thursday afternoon
Slept in this morning then got my stuff packed. I checked my suitcase to the airport so I wouldn't have to carry it around. I went to some of the other casinos to look around. Had lunch at the Wolfgang Puck pizzeria. It was good.
wednesday night part 2
I decided to venture down to the Fremont Experience. It was ok. My stomach hurt so I didn't stay long. I missed the light show. Oh well.
Wednesday night
Had dinner at the Mesa Grill tonight. It was great! Had the blue corn pancake with BBQ duck. Spicy pork tenderloin. Mexican chocolate pudding for dessert. Very cool.
Wednesday morning
The Hoover Dam tour was amazing! We also stopped at the Ethel M's chocolate factory on the way back to the Strip. Nice!
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Phantom
The Vegas production was very good. Lots of glitz in a 90!minute show. Yes in 90 minutes. They cut it down! I liked it though. Very cool.
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Spa update
I had a nice massage and pedicure this morning. Very cool! I think I slept most of the afternoon.
Monday evening
Went casino hopping towards the Wynn where Le Reve is playing. Had an appetizer at the Venetian. The gondoliers were so cool! Le Reve was amazing lobbed the show.
Sunday, September 4, 2011
Lost in the meaningless details...
Our Daily Bread
As a project manager, it is easy to get lost in the meaningless details of a project. Though they are not really meaningless, project managers must complete forms and reports about each project for their peers, the project team and management. We are always on the lookout for the smallest detail that might affect our project. I have seen it over and over!
As children of God, we can get caught up on things that are not really important. We spend too much time and resources on these unimportant things instead of focusing our energy on the things that really matter. As I read the devotional this morning, I wondered if I am wasting too many of my personal resources with my trips. I am usually frugal on my trips, using coupons or hotel specials or free credits or frequent flier miles, etc, but this trip to Vegas is different. I am eating at some four star restaurants. I am seeing some expensive shows. Are those things really necessary? I struggle sometimes with questions like this. Would my resources be better spent giving to the poor instead of enjoying fancy meals? Helping the homeless instead of seeing bright lights and colorful costumes on stage? I will think and pray more about that.
What about you? Are there things that you need to review in your life?
Lord, I want to use the resources that you helped me earn with your strength in the best way.
Psalm Sunday
Psalm 21 is the psalm for this week. It is a praise psalm for a period of good times when the king is trusting the Lord. Things are good. Enemies are vanquished. God displays his glory through a trusting loving nation.
Psalm 21
For the director of music. A psalm of David.
1 The king rejoices in your strength, LORD.
How great is his joy in the victories you give!
2 You have granted him his heart’s desire
and have not withheld the request of his lips.
3 You came to greet him with rich blessings
and placed a crown of pure gold on his head.
4 He asked you for life, and you gave it to him—
length of days, for ever and ever.
5 Through the victories you gave, his glory is great;
you have bestowed on him splendor and majesty.
6 Surely you have granted him unending blessings
and made him glad with the joy of your presence.
7 For the king trusts in the LORD;
through the unfailing love of the Most High
he will not be shaken.
8 Your hand will lay hold on all your enemies;
your right hand will seize your foes.
9 When you appear for battle,
you will burn them up as in a blazing furnace.
The LORD will swallow them up in his wrath,
and his fire will consume them.
10 You will destroy their descendants from the earth,
their posterity from mankind.
11 Though they plot evil against you
and devise wicked schemes, they cannot succeed.
12 You will make them turn their backs
when you aim at them with drawn bow.
13 Be exalted in your strength, LORD;
we will sing and praise your might.
Other Stuff
I ran errands yesterday morning. I got done fairly early so I rested in the afternoon and evening. I watched the OSU football game. I took a couple of short naps. I figured out some issues around the house. I finished the rest of my packing. I had a couple of phone calls with close friends. It was a good day. I went to bed early because I was tired from the week.
I got some news about 10:30 last night that the church retreat I have been preparing for has been postponed until Spring. I am a little disappointed by that. I am not sure I will have time to participate on the team in the Spring. Frankly, I am not sure I want to after some of the things that happened the past several weeks. God used the preparation meetings to teach me several things. I will write more about those when I get a chance.
I fly to Las Vegas tonight. I will write some special postings this week. I found a cool iPhone/iPad app that enables me to post entries easily to this site. Woohoooo! I have struggled with that on past trips, even on my iPad.
God is so good. I praise him and thank him for his love and mercy. I don't always understand the things that are going on around me, but I know I need to trust him. He is giving me the desires of my heart as long as I stay out of the way! hehehe I learned more about how I can block good things from happening in my life the other day. God is helping me get over that tendency. He wants the best for me. He wants me to live that way!
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
As a project manager, it is easy to get lost in the meaningless details of a project. Though they are not really meaningless, project managers must complete forms and reports about each project for their peers, the project team and management. We are always on the lookout for the smallest detail that might affect our project. I have seen it over and over!
As children of God, we can get caught up on things that are not really important. We spend too much time and resources on these unimportant things instead of focusing our energy on the things that really matter. As I read the devotional this morning, I wondered if I am wasting too many of my personal resources with my trips. I am usually frugal on my trips, using coupons or hotel specials or free credits or frequent flier miles, etc, but this trip to Vegas is different. I am eating at some four star restaurants. I am seeing some expensive shows. Are those things really necessary? I struggle sometimes with questions like this. Would my resources be better spent giving to the poor instead of enjoying fancy meals? Helping the homeless instead of seeing bright lights and colorful costumes on stage? I will think and pray more about that.
What about you? Are there things that you need to review in your life?
Lord, I want to use the resources that you helped me earn with your strength in the best way.
Psalm Sunday
Psalm 21 is the psalm for this week. It is a praise psalm for a period of good times when the king is trusting the Lord. Things are good. Enemies are vanquished. God displays his glory through a trusting loving nation.
Psalm 21
For the director of music. A psalm of David.
1 The king rejoices in your strength, LORD.
How great is his joy in the victories you give!
2 You have granted him his heart’s desire
and have not withheld the request of his lips.
3 You came to greet him with rich blessings
and placed a crown of pure gold on his head.
4 He asked you for life, and you gave it to him—
length of days, for ever and ever.
5 Through the victories you gave, his glory is great;
you have bestowed on him splendor and majesty.
6 Surely you have granted him unending blessings
and made him glad with the joy of your presence.
7 For the king trusts in the LORD;
through the unfailing love of the Most High
he will not be shaken.
8 Your hand will lay hold on all your enemies;
your right hand will seize your foes.
9 When you appear for battle,
you will burn them up as in a blazing furnace.
The LORD will swallow them up in his wrath,
and his fire will consume them.
10 You will destroy their descendants from the earth,
their posterity from mankind.
11 Though they plot evil against you
and devise wicked schemes, they cannot succeed.
12 You will make them turn their backs
when you aim at them with drawn bow.
13 Be exalted in your strength, LORD;
we will sing and praise your might.
Other Stuff
I ran errands yesterday morning. I got done fairly early so I rested in the afternoon and evening. I watched the OSU football game. I took a couple of short naps. I figured out some issues around the house. I finished the rest of my packing. I had a couple of phone calls with close friends. It was a good day. I went to bed early because I was tired from the week.
I got some news about 10:30 last night that the church retreat I have been preparing for has been postponed until Spring. I am a little disappointed by that. I am not sure I will have time to participate on the team in the Spring. Frankly, I am not sure I want to after some of the things that happened the past several weeks. God used the preparation meetings to teach me several things. I will write more about those when I get a chance.
I fly to Las Vegas tonight. I will write some special postings this week. I found a cool iPhone/iPad app that enables me to post entries easily to this site. Woohoooo! I have struggled with that on past trips, even on my iPad.
God is so good. I praise him and thank him for his love and mercy. I don't always understand the things that are going on around me, but I know I need to trust him. He is giving me the desires of my heart as long as I stay out of the way! hehehe I learned more about how I can block good things from happening in my life the other day. God is helping me get over that tendency. He wants the best for me. He wants me to live that way!
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Saturday, September 3, 2011
Give me your eyes....
Our Daily Bread
The devotion today talks about seeing the pain and suffering in others -- then doing something about it! I am very proud to be part of a church that takes on so many projects for the needy and those suffering. I believe that is what God wants us to do. Still, sometimes, I believe that we should do more than just write a check!
There is a song that I had listened to many times, but didn't really hear the words. They finally clicked in me one day. The second verse described how the singer actually looked at the face above a "homeless, need help" sign to see the human being holding it. It was an epiphany for him! We sometimes dehumanize folks so we can deal with the tragedies of their lives. Wow!
Lord, please give me your eyes to see the needs and your love to do what I can to serve.
Simply Saturday
It has been an interesting week. Work has not been busy. It appears that I am playing the "utility player" role on my team the next few months. I am thankful that I have the skills and experience to work on most of the stuff that our teams does! It should be fun and not boring since I will be working on several things.
I am not sure what will happen with the church retreat I have been working on. We may not have enough participants to have the retreat. We will find out tomorrow if we are a "go".
I am finishing preparations for my vacation. Clothes are packed. I am doing some last minute stuff around the house and packing my carry on bag. That usually takes as long as my clothes due to medicine, device chargers, etc.
I had a good session with my counselor last night. I had a good talk with a close friend afterwards.
During my talk with my close friend, God brought to my mind just how weak I am on my own. I didn't act like the real Duane when I was at his house. I didn't act the way that God wanted me to act. I called my friend on the way home to apologize. God has some things that I needed to do and say. I dropped the ball. God has forgiven me. My friend forgave me. I need to forgive myself so I can do better the next time. This person means too much to me to keep screwing up. "Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord, wait upon the Lord" Yeah, that's the ticket...
I am trying an iPhone app for posting to Blogger. We will see how it works. I want to travel light to Vegas. I may not even take my iPad. ;-p
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
The devotion today talks about seeing the pain and suffering in others -- then doing something about it! I am very proud to be part of a church that takes on so many projects for the needy and those suffering. I believe that is what God wants us to do. Still, sometimes, I believe that we should do more than just write a check!
There is a song that I had listened to many times, but didn't really hear the words. They finally clicked in me one day. The second verse described how the singer actually looked at the face above a "homeless, need help" sign to see the human being holding it. It was an epiphany for him! We sometimes dehumanize folks so we can deal with the tragedies of their lives. Wow!
Lord, please give me your eyes to see the needs and your love to do what I can to serve.
Simply Saturday
It has been an interesting week. Work has not been busy. It appears that I am playing the "utility player" role on my team the next few months. I am thankful that I have the skills and experience to work on most of the stuff that our teams does! It should be fun and not boring since I will be working on several things.
I am not sure what will happen with the church retreat I have been working on. We may not have enough participants to have the retreat. We will find out tomorrow if we are a "go".
I am finishing preparations for my vacation. Clothes are packed. I am doing some last minute stuff around the house and packing my carry on bag. That usually takes as long as my clothes due to medicine, device chargers, etc.
I had a good session with my counselor last night. I had a good talk with a close friend afterwards.
During my talk with my close friend, God brought to my mind just how weak I am on my own. I didn't act like the real Duane when I was at his house. I didn't act the way that God wanted me to act. I called my friend on the way home to apologize. God has some things that I needed to do and say. I dropped the ball. God has forgiven me. My friend forgave me. I need to forgive myself so I can do better the next time. This person means too much to me to keep screwing up. "Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord, wait upon the Lord" Yeah, that's the ticket...
I am trying an iPhone app for posting to Blogger. We will see how it works. I want to travel light to Vegas. I may not even take my iPad. ;-p
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Friday, September 2, 2011
Custom made....
Our Daily Bread
When I got to know my best friend in college, we started opening up about all kinds of things. One day he told me that he was disappointed that he only had one custom made suit to his name. He was so embarrassed by that! I was taken aback. I didn't realize you could have a suit custom made! All I knew where the "suits" available off the rack at Sears and JCPenneys! ;-p
I (we) get so caught up in things like this at times. It is all a matter of perspective. A close friend expressed that she was envious of the restaurants I will eat at next week on my Vegas vacation. I thought for a minute and texted back "I will be eating alone. You will spending a wonderful week on a family vacation with folks who love you more than anything in the world. I think I am the one who is envious of you!"
Regardless of our circumstances, we need to always remember that we are "fearfully and wonderfully made". It does not matter what we see or what we think we see when we look in the mirror. God's works are wonderful indeed. That includes you and me!
Lord, thank you for custom making me while I was still in my mother's womb. I am fearfully and wonderfully made indeed.
Foodie Friday
No recipe this week. I want to let you know the three foodie restaurants I will be eating at next week (at least what I have planned so far). Restaurant Week in Vegas started on August 29. There are some special lunch menus for $30.11 and supper menus for $50.11. Woohoooo!
Tao
This is an Asian fusion restaurant. I ate at the one in NYC a few times and loved it. I am sure I will enjoy the Vegas version as well. I will eat there before the Phantom show on Tuesday.
RM Seafood
Rick Moonen's restaurant has lots of great dishes. It is located in the Mandalay Bay complex, near the Luxor where I am staying. I will be eating lunch there on Monday.
Mesa Grill
I missed eating at the MG in Chicago a few months ago. I didn't want to miss it again! Bobby Flay's place is well-known in foodie circles. I plan to eat there Wednesday night before checking out the old part of Las Vegas and the spectacular light show.
Other Stuff
I went to the gym after work last night, then ran some errands. I managed to fit a few phone and text conversations in there somewhere. I was tired, so I went to bed early. I feel pretty good today. The media PC is coming along nicely. I installed the bluetooth usb dongle and the wireless-N usb antenna. They both work great. I want to pair the bluetooth keyboard and mouse to the media pc next, then put the side panes back on. It will soon be ready for prime time! It's a good thing since football season started this week!
Don't forget: Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord, wait upon the Lord, we will wait upon the Lord... ;-)
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
When I got to know my best friend in college, we started opening up about all kinds of things. One day he told me that he was disappointed that he only had one custom made suit to his name. He was so embarrassed by that! I was taken aback. I didn't realize you could have a suit custom made! All I knew where the "suits" available off the rack at Sears and JCPenneys! ;-p
I (we) get so caught up in things like this at times. It is all a matter of perspective. A close friend expressed that she was envious of the restaurants I will eat at next week on my Vegas vacation. I thought for a minute and texted back "I will be eating alone. You will spending a wonderful week on a family vacation with folks who love you more than anything in the world. I think I am the one who is envious of you!"
Regardless of our circumstances, we need to always remember that we are "fearfully and wonderfully made". It does not matter what we see or what we think we see when we look in the mirror. God's works are wonderful indeed. That includes you and me!
Lord, thank you for custom making me while I was still in my mother's womb. I am fearfully and wonderfully made indeed.
Foodie Friday
No recipe this week. I want to let you know the three foodie restaurants I will be eating at next week (at least what I have planned so far). Restaurant Week in Vegas started on August 29. There are some special lunch menus for $30.11 and supper menus for $50.11. Woohoooo!
Tao
This is an Asian fusion restaurant. I ate at the one in NYC a few times and loved it. I am sure I will enjoy the Vegas version as well. I will eat there before the Phantom show on Tuesday.
RM Seafood
Rick Moonen's restaurant has lots of great dishes. It is located in the Mandalay Bay complex, near the Luxor where I am staying. I will be eating lunch there on Monday.
Mesa Grill
I missed eating at the MG in Chicago a few months ago. I didn't want to miss it again! Bobby Flay's place is well-known in foodie circles. I plan to eat there Wednesday night before checking out the old part of Las Vegas and the spectacular light show.
Other Stuff
I went to the gym after work last night, then ran some errands. I managed to fit a few phone and text conversations in there somewhere. I was tired, so I went to bed early. I feel pretty good today. The media PC is coming along nicely. I installed the bluetooth usb dongle and the wireless-N usb antenna. They both work great. I want to pair the bluetooth keyboard and mouse to the media pc next, then put the side panes back on. It will soon be ready for prime time! It's a good thing since football season started this week!
Don't forget: Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord, wait upon the Lord, we will wait upon the Lord... ;-)
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Come home, come ho-o-o-me!
Our Daily Bread
We are human. We stray at times, whether it be physically straying like staying home from church or mentally straying like not being able to focus on what God is saying to us during Bible study or worship service. The words in the title are the beginning of the chorus to a hymn I sang a lot in my younger days:
Come home, Come home
Ye who are weary come home.
Earnestly, tenderly Jesus is calling.
Calling, O Sinner, come home.
We all stray. We should try to minimize our straying so it doesn't become habit. It is sort of like me and eating too much. I am changing my eating habits, but sometimes I eat too much. I can't get in the habit of doing it every day again. The same thing happens with our spiritual lives. We need to get back on the holy wagon and keep pushing our spiritual lives forward. There are few things more frustrating than moving one step forward and then two steps back! ;-p
Lord I want to keep moving forward. Thank you for your Spirit to help me do so!
Technology Thursday
Here are a few miscellaneous topics in the technology world.
It looks like the US government is not going to allow the merger of ATT and TMobile. Interesting. We will see how that works out in the next few months.
iPhone watch: When will new iPhones be announced? Inquiring minds want to know! My contract is almost up! hehehe The latest rumors is that the announcement will be in September with the devices available for preorder in late September and in the stores in October. I might stand in line for this one.
Tablet computers: Rumors have it that Amazon.com will release a tablet computer that might actually be able to compete with the iPad. We will see. The biggest competitor now is the Galaxy Tab by Samsung. It is OK. I still find Android to be clunky...
Other Stuff
I ran some errands last night and got some things done around the house. I picked up a new DVD drive from Microcenter. The one on my extra desktop (the new Media Center) was not working well. The new DVD drive was only $19. Woohooo! I also finished installing and getting the updates for Windows 7 on that box. The TV tuner card works great. I will see how the box looks connected to my big screen TV when I get back from Vegas. I need to test the Wireless N USB device on it and the Bluetooth USB device before moving the box to the living room.
I packed my clothes for the Vegas trip. I still need to gather my other junk like medicine, adapters, etc.
I got some laundry done. Watered plants. Poured some gas in my Escape from one of the five gallon gas cans. I don't think I mentioned it on here, but I got about 27 gallons of gas for $36 week before last using my discount at Giant Eagle. Woohoooo! It is inconvenient to me to pour the gas in the tank from the cans, however, it does save me money!
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
We are human. We stray at times, whether it be physically straying like staying home from church or mentally straying like not being able to focus on what God is saying to us during Bible study or worship service. The words in the title are the beginning of the chorus to a hymn I sang a lot in my younger days:
Come home, Come home
Ye who are weary come home.
Earnestly, tenderly Jesus is calling.
Calling, O Sinner, come home.
We all stray. We should try to minimize our straying so it doesn't become habit. It is sort of like me and eating too much. I am changing my eating habits, but sometimes I eat too much. I can't get in the habit of doing it every day again. The same thing happens with our spiritual lives. We need to get back on the holy wagon and keep pushing our spiritual lives forward. There are few things more frustrating than moving one step forward and then two steps back! ;-p
Lord I want to keep moving forward. Thank you for your Spirit to help me do so!
Technology Thursday
Here are a few miscellaneous topics in the technology world.
It looks like the US government is not going to allow the merger of ATT and TMobile. Interesting. We will see how that works out in the next few months.
iPhone watch: When will new iPhones be announced? Inquiring minds want to know! My contract is almost up! hehehe The latest rumors is that the announcement will be in September with the devices available for preorder in late September and in the stores in October. I might stand in line for this one.
Tablet computers: Rumors have it that Amazon.com will release a tablet computer that might actually be able to compete with the iPad. We will see. The biggest competitor now is the Galaxy Tab by Samsung. It is OK. I still find Android to be clunky...
Other Stuff
I ran some errands last night and got some things done around the house. I picked up a new DVD drive from Microcenter. The one on my extra desktop (the new Media Center) was not working well. The new DVD drive was only $19. Woohooo! I also finished installing and getting the updates for Windows 7 on that box. The TV tuner card works great. I will see how the box looks connected to my big screen TV when I get back from Vegas. I need to test the Wireless N USB device on it and the Bluetooth USB device before moving the box to the living room.
I packed my clothes for the Vegas trip. I still need to gather my other junk like medicine, adapters, etc.
I got some laundry done. Watered plants. Poured some gas in my Escape from one of the five gallon gas cans. I don't think I mentioned it on here, but I got about 27 gallons of gas for $36 week before last using my discount at Giant Eagle. Woohoooo! It is inconvenient to me to pour the gas in the tank from the cans, however, it does save me money!
Hang in there, my friends! I will be upbeat and steady. That is what I do...
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