Our Daily Bread
I saw a video on Facebook over the weekend that explained how magicians do the "bend the spoon trick". There is a special kind of metal that returns to the shape it was given at a certain temperature. A magician uses a spoon made out of that material and "bends" the spoon to its original shape. The metal in the spoon actually does all the work!
I know that completely blows your mind like it did mine! ha! I thought about how God does truly wondrous things in the lives of his children. We are made of a metal that is in the image of God. We spend our lives seeking the ways to get back to God after the world and sin bends our lives out of shape. God is there. No magic involved. Just love and his Holy Spirit to lead and guide us!
Lord, please help us love you and thank you for the way you straighten out our lives!
Movie Monday
I saw two movies this week - a brand new one and an old one that was new to me.
Dawn of the Planet of the Apes
I was hesitant to see this one. After reading the reviews and user opinions, I paid my money for the 3D ticket. I am not sure the 3D was worth the extra money, but the movie was pretty good. The story line is about how the apes and the humans meet up again after not having contact for several years. The apes are thriving. The humans are struggling. The thing that struck me most about the movie was that there is good and bad in ALL of us no matter what our species!
I give this movie 3 bear paws. See it on the big screen, though 3D is not necessary.
North by Northwest
I hadn't heard of this movie until I saw it on the CAPA summer movie list. It stars Cary Grant. Need I say more? LOL It is considered a Hitchcock masterpiece for it suspense and the balance of a charming performance by Cary Grant. It is a little over two hours long, which is very long for a movie made in 1959, but it held my attention.
I give this movie three bear paws. Rent it. The last showing on the CAPA series was last night.
***************************************
I pray the weight of my sins doth not crush me back to dust from where I came. I pray that God create in me a new, clean heart and place a right spirit within me. Restore to me the joy of my salvation. Praise the Almighty God from whom all blessings flow.
Monday, July 14, 2014
Sunday, July 13, 2014
Yes. Virginia, there is grace
Our Daily Bread
There was a famous movie about Santa Claus and a little girl named Virginia that wrote a letter to him. The first line in the letter has been immortalized in movie lore "Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus..." While reading the devotional, I thought about Virginia writing God about his existence!
"Yes, Virginia, there is grace" might be a line in the letter. Each of us probably asks this question many times in our lives, especially after we make mistakes! Dealing with the wages of our sins can be a horrible thing. As humans, we think we can get a way with stuff, then are surprised over and over when reality hits! Yikes! Let's pray for each other that we live our lives in the glow of God's grace!
Lord, we know you know everything. Please help us live that way!
Sunday Wisdom
Today is the first day of "Sunday Wisdom". I will post one of the Proverbs each Sunday. I love reading the wisdom of the Proverbs! I hope you do too! Proverbs 1 talks about the call of Wisdom and the danger of evil companions!
Proverbs 1 New Revised Standard Version (NRSV)
1 The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel:
Prologue
2 For learning about wisdom and instruction,
for understanding words of insight,
3 for gaining instruction in wise dealing,
righteousness, justice, and equity;
4 to teach shrewdness to the simple,
knowledge and prudence to the young—
5 let the wise also hear and gain in learning,
and the discerning acquire skill,
6 to understand a proverb and a figure,
the words of the wise and their riddles.
7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge;
fools despise wisdom and instruction.
Warnings against Evil Companions
8 Hear, my child, your father’s instruction,
and do not reject your mother’s teaching;
9 for they are a fair garland for your head,
and pendants for your neck.
10 My child, if sinners entice you,
do not consent.
11 If they say, “Come with us, let us lie in wait for blood;
let us wantonly ambush the innocent;
12 like Sheol let us swallow them alive
and whole, like those who go down to the Pit.
13 We shall find all kinds of costly things;
we shall fill our houses with booty.
14 Throw in your lot among us;
we will all have one purse”—
15 my child, do not walk in their way,
keep your foot from their paths;
16 for their feet run to evil,
and they hurry to shed blood.
17 For in vain is the net baited
while the bird is looking on;
18 yet they lie in wait—to kill themselves!
and set an ambush—for their own lives!
19 Such is the end of all who are greedy for gain;
it takes away the life of its possessors.
The Call of Wisdom
20 Wisdom cries out in the street;
in the squares she raises her voice.
21 At the busiest corner she cries out;
at the entrance of the city gates she speaks:
22 “How long, O simple ones, will you love being simple?
How long will scoffers delight in their scoffing
and fools hate knowledge?
23 Give heed to my reproof;
I will pour out my thoughts to you;
I will make my words known to you.
24 Because I have called and you refused,
have stretched out my hand and no one heeded,
25 and because you have ignored all my counsel
and would have none of my reproof,
26 I also will laugh at your calamity;
I will mock when panic strikes you,
27 when panic strikes you like a storm,
and your calamity comes like a whirlwind,
when distress and anguish come upon you.
28 Then they will call upon me, but I will not answer;
they will seek me diligently, but will not find me.
29 Because they hated knowledge
and did not choose the fear of the Lord,
30 would have none of my counsel,
and despised all my reproof,
31 therefore they shall eat the fruit of their way
and be sated with their own devices.
32 For waywardness kills the simple,
and the complacency of fools destroys them;
33 but those who listen to me will be secure
and will live at ease, without dread of disaster.”
************************************************
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. - Hebrews 13:8
There was a famous movie about Santa Claus and a little girl named Virginia that wrote a letter to him. The first line in the letter has been immortalized in movie lore "Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus..." While reading the devotional, I thought about Virginia writing God about his existence!
"Yes, Virginia, there is grace" might be a line in the letter. Each of us probably asks this question many times in our lives, especially after we make mistakes! Dealing with the wages of our sins can be a horrible thing. As humans, we think we can get a way with stuff, then are surprised over and over when reality hits! Yikes! Let's pray for each other that we live our lives in the glow of God's grace!
Lord, we know you know everything. Please help us live that way!
Sunday Wisdom
Today is the first day of "Sunday Wisdom". I will post one of the Proverbs each Sunday. I love reading the wisdom of the Proverbs! I hope you do too! Proverbs 1 talks about the call of Wisdom and the danger of evil companions!
Proverbs 1 New Revised Standard Version (NRSV)
1 The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel:
Prologue
2 For learning about wisdom and instruction,
for understanding words of insight,
3 for gaining instruction in wise dealing,
righteousness, justice, and equity;
4 to teach shrewdness to the simple,
knowledge and prudence to the young—
5 let the wise also hear and gain in learning,
and the discerning acquire skill,
6 to understand a proverb and a figure,
the words of the wise and their riddles.
7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge;
fools despise wisdom and instruction.
Warnings against Evil Companions
8 Hear, my child, your father’s instruction,
and do not reject your mother’s teaching;
9 for they are a fair garland for your head,
and pendants for your neck.
10 My child, if sinners entice you,
do not consent.
11 If they say, “Come with us, let us lie in wait for blood;
let us wantonly ambush the innocent;
12 like Sheol let us swallow them alive
and whole, like those who go down to the Pit.
13 We shall find all kinds of costly things;
we shall fill our houses with booty.
14 Throw in your lot among us;
we will all have one purse”—
15 my child, do not walk in their way,
keep your foot from their paths;
16 for their feet run to evil,
and they hurry to shed blood.
17 For in vain is the net baited
while the bird is looking on;
18 yet they lie in wait—to kill themselves!
and set an ambush—for their own lives!
19 Such is the end of all who are greedy for gain;
it takes away the life of its possessors.
The Call of Wisdom
20 Wisdom cries out in the street;
in the squares she raises her voice.
21 At the busiest corner she cries out;
at the entrance of the city gates she speaks:
22 “How long, O simple ones, will you love being simple?
How long will scoffers delight in their scoffing
and fools hate knowledge?
23 Give heed to my reproof;
I will pour out my thoughts to you;
I will make my words known to you.
24 Because I have called and you refused,
have stretched out my hand and no one heeded,
25 and because you have ignored all my counsel
and would have none of my reproof,
26 I also will laugh at your calamity;
I will mock when panic strikes you,
27 when panic strikes you like a storm,
and your calamity comes like a whirlwind,
when distress and anguish come upon you.
28 Then they will call upon me, but I will not answer;
they will seek me diligently, but will not find me.
29 Because they hated knowledge
and did not choose the fear of the Lord,
30 would have none of my counsel,
and despised all my reproof,
31 therefore they shall eat the fruit of their way
and be sated with their own devices.
32 For waywardness kills the simple,
and the complacency of fools destroys them;
33 but those who listen to me will be secure
and will live at ease, without dread of disaster.”
************************************************
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. - Hebrews 13:8
Saturday, July 12, 2014
Power in a name
Our Daily Bread
Have you ever noticed in the Old Testament how powerful names are? The same is true in the New Testament. Names were an important part of the Jewish culture. Abram to Abraham. Sarai to Sarah. Jacob to Israel. Saul to Paul. There are several instances of where God told fathers to name their sons unexpected names (John the Baptist and Jesus).
We see the power of names and nicknames today. There are some words you just DON'T say because of the negative power they have. Instead of lifting othets up, we use names or nicknames (or slurs) to tear people down. I told a concert band friend one time "I don't understand how a slur can be so beautiful in music, but so awful otherwise!" Be careful what names or nicknames you use!
Lord, you have a nickname for us "beloved children of God"!
Simply Saturday
This song seems to go hand-in-hand with the devotional. Read the lyrics or listen to the song and think about it.
"Words" as sung by Hawk Nelson [video]
They've made me feel like a prisoner
They've made me feel set free
They've made me feel like a criminal
Made me feel like a king
They've lifted my heart
To places I'd never been
And they've dragged me down
Back to where I began
Words can build you up
Words can break you down
Start a fire in your heart or
Put it out
Let my words be life
Let my words be truth
I don't wanna say a word
Unless it points the world back to You
You can heal the heartache
Speak over the fear
(Speak over the fear)
God, Your voice is the only thing
We need to hear
(We need to hear)
Words can build us up
Words can break us down
Start a fire in our hearts or
Put it out
Let my words be life
Let my words be truth
I don't wanna say a word
Unless it points the world back to You
(Back to You)
Let the words I say
(Let the words I say)
Be the sound of Your grace
(Sound like Your grace)
I don't wanna say a word
Unless it points the world back to You
I wanna speak Your love
Not just another noise
Oh, I wanna be Your light
I wanna be Your voice
Let my words be life
Let my words be truth
I don't wanna say a word
Unless it points the world back to You
(Back to You)
Let the words I say
(Let the words I say)
Be the sound of Your grace
(Sound like Your grace)
I don't wanna say a word
Unless it points the world back to You
(Back to You)
Words can build us up
Words can break us down
Start a fire in our hearts
Or put it out
I don't wanna say a word
Unless it points the world back to You
********************************************
As wise King Solomon said, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths” (Prov. 3:5-6).
Have you ever noticed in the Old Testament how powerful names are? The same is true in the New Testament. Names were an important part of the Jewish culture. Abram to Abraham. Sarai to Sarah. Jacob to Israel. Saul to Paul. There are several instances of where God told fathers to name their sons unexpected names (John the Baptist and Jesus).
We see the power of names and nicknames today. There are some words you just DON'T say because of the negative power they have. Instead of lifting othets up, we use names or nicknames (or slurs) to tear people down. I told a concert band friend one time "I don't understand how a slur can be so beautiful in music, but so awful otherwise!" Be careful what names or nicknames you use!
Lord, you have a nickname for us "beloved children of God"!
Simply Saturday
This song seems to go hand-in-hand with the devotional. Read the lyrics or listen to the song and think about it.
"Words" as sung by Hawk Nelson [video]
They've made me feel like a prisoner
They've made me feel set free
They've made me feel like a criminal
Made me feel like a king
They've lifted my heart
To places I'd never been
And they've dragged me down
Back to where I began
Words can build you up
Words can break you down
Start a fire in your heart or
Put it out
Let my words be life
Let my words be truth
I don't wanna say a word
Unless it points the world back to You
You can heal the heartache
Speak over the fear
(Speak over the fear)
God, Your voice is the only thing
We need to hear
(We need to hear)
Words can build us up
Words can break us down
Start a fire in our hearts or
Put it out
Let my words be life
Let my words be truth
I don't wanna say a word
Unless it points the world back to You
(Back to You)
Let the words I say
(Let the words I say)
Be the sound of Your grace
(Sound like Your grace)
I don't wanna say a word
Unless it points the world back to You
I wanna speak Your love
Not just another noise
Oh, I wanna be Your light
I wanna be Your voice
Let my words be life
Let my words be truth
I don't wanna say a word
Unless it points the world back to You
(Back to You)
Let the words I say
(Let the words I say)
Be the sound of Your grace
(Sound like Your grace)
I don't wanna say a word
Unless it points the world back to You
(Back to You)
Words can build us up
Words can break us down
Start a fire in our hearts
Or put it out
I don't wanna say a word
Unless it points the world back to You
As wise King Solomon said, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths” (Prov. 3:5-6).
Friday, July 11, 2014
New approach
Our Daily Bread
There is a common meme or saying: "doing the same things over and over and expecting different results is the definition of insanity". LOL How true is that in our lives? We try to do things on our own and expect different results than the last time!
I loved this saying in the devotional:
A faithful person organizes his or her life around a common perspective of trust, not fear. Despite the apparent chaos of the present moment, God does reign. Regardless of how I may feel, I truly matter to a God of love
Wow! How about we all try a new approach to life! Faith and trust in God!
Lord, your ways are not our ways. Please help us learn your ways!
Foodie Friday
A friend gave me a juicer so I am going to try some juice recipes. Some friends from work are "juicers" as we jokingly call them. I got this recipe from one of them.
Mean Green Juice
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 1-2
Serving Size: 16oz. (500 mls)
Ingredients
1 cucumber
4 celery stalks
2 apples
6-8 leaves kale (Australian tuscan cabbage)
1/2 lemon
1 tbsp ginger
Directions
Wash all produce well
Peel the lemon, optional
Juice
Pour over ice
Enjoy!
*********************************************
The only remedy for hearts that “want it all” is the contentment found in the presence of the living God. He is sufficient for our needs and longings, and He alone can bring us the peace and contentment we’ll never find in the pursuits of this life. - Our Daily Bread
There is a common meme or saying: "doing the same things over and over and expecting different results is the definition of insanity". LOL How true is that in our lives? We try to do things on our own and expect different results than the last time!
I loved this saying in the devotional:
A faithful person organizes his or her life around a common perspective of trust, not fear. Despite the apparent chaos of the present moment, God does reign. Regardless of how I may feel, I truly matter to a God of love
Wow! How about we all try a new approach to life! Faith and trust in God!
Lord, your ways are not our ways. Please help us learn your ways!
Foodie Friday
A friend gave me a juicer so I am going to try some juice recipes. Some friends from work are "juicers" as we jokingly call them. I got this recipe from one of them.
Mean Green Juice
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 1-2
Serving Size: 16oz. (500 mls)
Ingredients
1 cucumber
4 celery stalks
2 apples
6-8 leaves kale (Australian tuscan cabbage)
1/2 lemon
1 tbsp ginger
Directions
Wash all produce well
Peel the lemon, optional
Juice
Pour over ice
Enjoy!
*********************************************
The only remedy for hearts that “want it all” is the contentment found in the presence of the living God. He is sufficient for our needs and longings, and He alone can bring us the peace and contentment we’ll never find in the pursuits of this life. - Our Daily Bread
Thursday, July 10, 2014
Point of reference
Our Daily Bread
Have you ever traveled to a large city like NYC, Chicago or San Francisco that has tall buildings or other landmarks that you use as a point of reference? "Oh, there's the Chrysler Building, we need to go this way..." might be heard many times. I have a joke with some friends that you can always tell the tourists by the way they look up at the buildings! ha!
I don't mind be called a "spiritual tourist" if it means that I am looking at our Savior all the time for direction! I know I don't. Like many tourists of this world, I think I know the right way to go. Finally, in frustration, I might ask directions. Might LOL As spiritual tourists, we need to follow our directions, stop immediately to ask for clarification if we get off track and continuously move towards our Heavenly Father!
Lord, please help us always be willing to ask for directions and be willing to follow them!
Technology Thursday
25 totally unnecessary but desirable travel gadgets
By Jill Becker and Tamara Hinson, for CNN
Yes, it's great to travel light.
Sure, too much tech can make life trickier, not easier. No, that's not going to stop us listing some of the coolest gadgets, gizmos and accessories that could just make you the happiest traveler this side of the Apple store. (If only till you lose them/have them stolen.)
Narrative clip-on camera
This is a tiny five-megapixel camera that clips onto your clothes and does the work for you, automatically taking two photos every minute when turned on. The accompanying app lets you save, organize and search the images. Narrative, $279.
Modern-twist mark-mat
A washable mark-mat is a great time-waster for kids to draw on. The doodle-friendly placemats feature scenes from several top cities, including Paris and New York, and come alone or with four dry-erase markers so kids can wipe off their work and start over again. Modern-twist, $18-25.
Dom Reilly Watch Roll
This layer of high-tech foam (the same stuff used in F1 cars) protects your timepieces from 97% of the shock from an impact. Dom Reilly, $500.
Smythson Chameleon Collection Travel Journal
Jotting down your travel-related musings is made less choresome by this luxurious notebook, which has a goatskin cover and ultra-thin pages. Smythson, $280.
Fitkit fitness solution
This portable fitness solution combines resistance bands, handled resistance tubes, a jump rope, pedometer and more in a handy package weighing less than two pounds. Fitkit, $34.99.
SleepPhones
A "headphone in a headband" that fits snugly around your ears and provides hours of audio to help reduce ambient noises? Finally!
The wireless version ($99.95) syncs with your smart phone or other Bluetooth-enabled device.
SleepPhones, $39.95.
Scottevest Blackout Pocket
You can foil, or at least delay, digital thieves with this high-tech clothing pocket. The totable 5x6.5-inch pouch is lined with an RFID-blocking material, securing the info on credit cards and cellphones from scanners, skimmers and the like. SCOTTEVEST, $20-40.
Panasonic HX-A500 wearable camcorder
This is the world's first 25-frame-a-second, 4K (very high resolution) wearable camcorder, worn on any part of the body and operated with a separate control panel. It can record underwater and if your shots are wonky, it'll automatically level them out. Panasonic, $399.99.
BioLite CampStove
The BioLite CampStove can toast your marshmallows and charge your smart phone. By burning a few sticks inside, enough electricity is generated to charge multiple electronic devices, while you heat water, grill some burgers or sear some s'mores. Biolitestove, $129.95.
Clever Travel Companion secure clothing
Cash, passports and other treasures can be secured in the hidden pockets of a stylish line of T-shirts, tank tops and, yes, even undies and long johns. Clever Travel Companion, starting at $21.90.
SwaggerTag
This is a colorful ID tag to personalize your baggage using a family photo, the logo of your favorite sports team or any other image. Your personal information is stored safely inside. SwaggerTag, $3.99.
SteriPEN Ultra
This clever piece of kit eliminates 99.9% of bacteria from water in just 48 seconds. The UV lamp can be used to treat 8,000 one-liter containers. SteriPEN, $99.95.
Zeiss Victory HT 8x42 binoculars
These binoculars claim to offer the best light transmission on the market, which means you'll still get great vision on the cloudiest of days. They're also extremely tough, with housing made from high tensile magnesium and a coating that repels water. Cabelas, $2,249.99.
Trakdot luggage tracker
Trakdot is a compact unit outfitted with a GSM chip that you tuck in your bag, allowing you to track its location on your computer or smart phone. The price tag includes activation and your first year's service. Trakdot, $89.99.
Bentley Mulsanne B-001 WG sunglasses
First step on the road to owning a Bentley car -- the Bentley sunglasses. Made from white gold and featuring the same B found on your Bentley Mulsanne gear lever (if you own one), even the case is impressive -- a reassuringly solid box designed to fit perfectly into the center console of your Bentley. Again, if you own one. Bentley Eyewear, $15,950.
"Dog Lover's Guide To Travel"
Kelly Carter's new book dishes advice on everything from prepping your pooch for a trek to the beach (yes, they should wear sunscreen) to finding the most Fido-friendly hotels, restaurants, parks and more in 75 cities across North America. "The Dog Lover's Guide to Travel," $22.95.
Ultimate Bag on Wheels pet carrier
Sherpa's Ultimate Bag on Wheels pet carrier is a medium-sized bag with wheels for animals weighing up to 16 pounds. It's part of the company's Guaranteed on Board program, ensuring acceptance on Delta, Southwest and most other major airlines. Ultimate on Wheels, $147.
Simple.be metal-free belts
Simple.be makes metal-free belts that won't set off airport security detectors. They're made of sturdy polypropylene or polyester webbing and feature an acetal buckle.
The belts are available in a multitude of colors and feature either a diamond or zigzag pattern. simple.be, $19-29.
Mytask Urban iPhone case and toolkit
This iPhone case protects your precious cellphone, yes, but it also features a slide-out drawer outfitted with a mirror, tweezers, bottle opener, stylus, screwdriver, USB drive, mini LED light and even a pair of scissors. It's TSA compliant, so it's safe to go through the X-ray machine. Mytask URBAN iphone case, $60.
Louis Vuitton shower-trunk
If a standard suitcase won't cut it, you'll be pleased to know one of LV's made-to-order options now includes this shower-in-a-trunk -- a suitcase that turns into a shower. The bad news is you'll only be given a price quote if you commission the brand to make one. Risky. Louis Vuitton, price on request.
Williams Handmade luggage
Williams Handmade is a luxury leather luggage company founded by creative genius Sarah Williams -- a British designer whose background includes stints at some of the world's top leather goods companies. Her the cross-shaped Emmett case is lovely, but if you're an imaginative traveler with money to burn, her bespoke service is the easiest way to guarantee your luggage stands out. Williams Handmade, from $146.
Two-Person Sandless Beach Mat
This towel was reportedly developed for military use, made from a woven polyurethane material that sand won't stick to. It also won't absorb moisture, so it won't go moldy. Hammacher, $59.95.
Bang and Olufsen Beolit 12 travel speaker
This is just about the coolest-looking iPhone-ported speaker set you'll find. It comes with an eight-hour battery life. Beoplay, $599.
Hendrick's Gin with Traveler's Case
Why reduce yourself to a hip flask when a leather satchel says so much more? A bottle of gin isn't the only thing inside this leather bag -- you also get a hip flask and a cashmere and silk scarf. Harrods, $1,349.
The Orator's Briefcase PA System
This multipurpose suitcase is designed for businessmen making speeches on short notice. The case comes with a built-in, 20-watt amplifier, a pop-up lectern and two microphones. Hammacher, $349.95.
****************************************
“Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen” (Eph. 3:20-21 niv).
Have you ever traveled to a large city like NYC, Chicago or San Francisco that has tall buildings or other landmarks that you use as a point of reference? "Oh, there's the Chrysler Building, we need to go this way..." might be heard many times. I have a joke with some friends that you can always tell the tourists by the way they look up at the buildings! ha!
I don't mind be called a "spiritual tourist" if it means that I am looking at our Savior all the time for direction! I know I don't. Like many tourists of this world, I think I know the right way to go. Finally, in frustration, I might ask directions. Might LOL As spiritual tourists, we need to follow our directions, stop immediately to ask for clarification if we get off track and continuously move towards our Heavenly Father!
Lord, please help us always be willing to ask for directions and be willing to follow them!
Technology Thursday
25 totally unnecessary but desirable travel gadgets
By Jill Becker and Tamara Hinson, for CNN
Yes, it's great to travel light.
Sure, too much tech can make life trickier, not easier. No, that's not going to stop us listing some of the coolest gadgets, gizmos and accessories that could just make you the happiest traveler this side of the Apple store. (If only till you lose them/have them stolen.)
Narrative clip-on camera
This is a tiny five-megapixel camera that clips onto your clothes and does the work for you, automatically taking two photos every minute when turned on. The accompanying app lets you save, organize and search the images. Narrative, $279.
Modern-twist mark-mat
A washable mark-mat is a great time-waster for kids to draw on. The doodle-friendly placemats feature scenes from several top cities, including Paris and New York, and come alone or with four dry-erase markers so kids can wipe off their work and start over again. Modern-twist, $18-25.
Dom Reilly Watch Roll
This layer of high-tech foam (the same stuff used in F1 cars) protects your timepieces from 97% of the shock from an impact. Dom Reilly, $500.
Smythson Chameleon Collection Travel Journal
Jotting down your travel-related musings is made less choresome by this luxurious notebook, which has a goatskin cover and ultra-thin pages. Smythson, $280.
Fitkit fitness solution
This portable fitness solution combines resistance bands, handled resistance tubes, a jump rope, pedometer and more in a handy package weighing less than two pounds. Fitkit, $34.99.
SleepPhones
A "headphone in a headband" that fits snugly around your ears and provides hours of audio to help reduce ambient noises? Finally!
The wireless version ($99.95) syncs with your smart phone or other Bluetooth-enabled device.
SleepPhones, $39.95.
Scottevest Blackout Pocket
You can foil, or at least delay, digital thieves with this high-tech clothing pocket. The totable 5x6.5-inch pouch is lined with an RFID-blocking material, securing the info on credit cards and cellphones from scanners, skimmers and the like. SCOTTEVEST, $20-40.
Panasonic HX-A500 wearable camcorder
This is the world's first 25-frame-a-second, 4K (very high resolution) wearable camcorder, worn on any part of the body and operated with a separate control panel. It can record underwater and if your shots are wonky, it'll automatically level them out. Panasonic, $399.99.
BioLite CampStove
The BioLite CampStove can toast your marshmallows and charge your smart phone. By burning a few sticks inside, enough electricity is generated to charge multiple electronic devices, while you heat water, grill some burgers or sear some s'mores. Biolitestove, $129.95.
Clever Travel Companion secure clothing
Cash, passports and other treasures can be secured in the hidden pockets of a stylish line of T-shirts, tank tops and, yes, even undies and long johns. Clever Travel Companion, starting at $21.90.
SwaggerTag
This is a colorful ID tag to personalize your baggage using a family photo, the logo of your favorite sports team or any other image. Your personal information is stored safely inside. SwaggerTag, $3.99.
SteriPEN Ultra
This clever piece of kit eliminates 99.9% of bacteria from water in just 48 seconds. The UV lamp can be used to treat 8,000 one-liter containers. SteriPEN, $99.95.
Zeiss Victory HT 8x42 binoculars
These binoculars claim to offer the best light transmission on the market, which means you'll still get great vision on the cloudiest of days. They're also extremely tough, with housing made from high tensile magnesium and a coating that repels water. Cabelas, $2,249.99.
Trakdot luggage tracker
Trakdot is a compact unit outfitted with a GSM chip that you tuck in your bag, allowing you to track its location on your computer or smart phone. The price tag includes activation and your first year's service. Trakdot, $89.99.
Bentley Mulsanne B-001 WG sunglasses
First step on the road to owning a Bentley car -- the Bentley sunglasses. Made from white gold and featuring the same B found on your Bentley Mulsanne gear lever (if you own one), even the case is impressive -- a reassuringly solid box designed to fit perfectly into the center console of your Bentley. Again, if you own one. Bentley Eyewear, $15,950.
"Dog Lover's Guide To Travel"
Kelly Carter's new book dishes advice on everything from prepping your pooch for a trek to the beach (yes, they should wear sunscreen) to finding the most Fido-friendly hotels, restaurants, parks and more in 75 cities across North America. "The Dog Lover's Guide to Travel," $22.95.
Ultimate Bag on Wheels pet carrier
Sherpa's Ultimate Bag on Wheels pet carrier is a medium-sized bag with wheels for animals weighing up to 16 pounds. It's part of the company's Guaranteed on Board program, ensuring acceptance on Delta, Southwest and most other major airlines. Ultimate on Wheels, $147.
Simple.be metal-free belts
Simple.be makes metal-free belts that won't set off airport security detectors. They're made of sturdy polypropylene or polyester webbing and feature an acetal buckle.
The belts are available in a multitude of colors and feature either a diamond or zigzag pattern. simple.be, $19-29.
Mytask Urban iPhone case and toolkit
This iPhone case protects your precious cellphone, yes, but it also features a slide-out drawer outfitted with a mirror, tweezers, bottle opener, stylus, screwdriver, USB drive, mini LED light and even a pair of scissors. It's TSA compliant, so it's safe to go through the X-ray machine. Mytask URBAN iphone case, $60.
Louis Vuitton shower-trunk
If a standard suitcase won't cut it, you'll be pleased to know one of LV's made-to-order options now includes this shower-in-a-trunk -- a suitcase that turns into a shower. The bad news is you'll only be given a price quote if you commission the brand to make one. Risky. Louis Vuitton, price on request.
Williams Handmade luggage
Williams Handmade is a luxury leather luggage company founded by creative genius Sarah Williams -- a British designer whose background includes stints at some of the world's top leather goods companies. Her the cross-shaped Emmett case is lovely, but if you're an imaginative traveler with money to burn, her bespoke service is the easiest way to guarantee your luggage stands out. Williams Handmade, from $146.
Two-Person Sandless Beach Mat
This towel was reportedly developed for military use, made from a woven polyurethane material that sand won't stick to. It also won't absorb moisture, so it won't go moldy. Hammacher, $59.95.
Bang and Olufsen Beolit 12 travel speaker
This is just about the coolest-looking iPhone-ported speaker set you'll find. It comes with an eight-hour battery life. Beoplay, $599.
Hendrick's Gin with Traveler's Case
Why reduce yourself to a hip flask when a leather satchel says so much more? A bottle of gin isn't the only thing inside this leather bag -- you also get a hip flask and a cashmere and silk scarf. Harrods, $1,349.
The Orator's Briefcase PA System
This multipurpose suitcase is designed for businessmen making speeches on short notice. The case comes with a built-in, 20-watt amplifier, a pop-up lectern and two microphones. Hammacher, $349.95.
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“Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen” (Eph. 3:20-21 niv).
Wednesday, July 9, 2014
Don't always understand
Our Daily Bread
I read an article the other day talking about how well-meaning Christians can unwittingly say the cruelest things, especially during someone else's tragedy. "It is all part of God's plan." "God will use this if you let him" "He's in a better place". "They aren't really ours -- they are just on loan from God". Oh boy... I know. I have said some of the same things. Yikes!
The only thing we can say is something like "May the Lord be with you during this time of grief" or my favorite text "u r a bcog U r fawm" Reassuring without assuming God's plan for the whole situation. Stuff happens. God is there for us. Remember the end of the book of Job. Our God reigns!
Lord, it is not always easy to remember our place in this life and the life to come. Please help always trust you.
Wellness Wednesday
Medical myths: What doctors thought they didn't need to say
By Caitlin Schmidt [link]
Common knowledge when it comes to all things health and medicine might not be so common after all.
Inspired by a topic on Reddit, CNN reached out to health care providers, seeking stories of patients armed with surprising medical misinformation.
The responses ranged from amusing to concerning. We picked a few in hopes that you can learn from their mistakes. Here's what doctors thought they didn't have to tell patients:
Don't stare directly at the sun
"Once I had a 15-year-old patient tell me she couldn't see. ... She had stared at the sun for five minutes straight and burned a hole in the center of both retinas, resulting in a blind spot in the middle of her vision for the rest of her life."
Dr. Cindy Wang of the California Optometric Association thinks this is the only patient she's ever had who didn't know not to look directly at the sun. But Wang has seen other ocular problems arise from sun exposure. Eye diseases, such as macular degeneration and cataracts, can develop due to frequent sun exposure.
"Always wear sunglasses when you're outside," Wang said. "I tell all my patients and still get some that are surprised to hear that."
Sunglasses are the best way to prevent ocular damage by UV rays; for those who don't wear sunglasses, contact lenses or eyeglasses with UV coating provide protection.
'Pulling out' is not a form of protection
"During group session I had one particular patient say, 'You know during intercourse if a guy withdraws before ejaculation, then you cannot contract HIV."
Some of the misinformation about HIV/AIDS can be attributed to fear, said Tasha Kornegay, a sexual health counselor. Many patients are afraid to speak with their doctors about HIV and instead believe the associated myths.
"When discussing and educating people about HIV, we tend to present general information instead of scientific information," Kornegay said. "People may know to wear condoms, but they don't necessarily know why."
HIV can be found in all sexual fluids, including pre-ejaculatory fluid, which is why it's important to always practice safe sex. In order to prevent further transmission, people need to get tested and start dialogues about sexual health.
"Talking can be lifesaving," Kornegay said.
Overdosing on fiber won't cure constipation
"I had a patient come in because of severe constipation, unable to move her bowels for at least a week. She said that the more time that passed without a bowel movement, the more she increased her fiber intake. This 'overdosing' of fiber actually created her constipation issue."
This misunderstanding is common in Dr. Neville Bamji's practice at New York Gastroenterology Associates.
"Many people think fiber cures constipation," he said. "It can help with minor constipation, but it isn't meant to be a cure."
Fiber draws water into the intestine and increases stool bulk, but it isn't digestible. The accumulation of too much fiber in the digestive system can lead to side effects such as gas, bloating and abdominal discomfort. Bamji said that it's an old wives' tale that fiber is the way to fix constipation.
If a person is constipated, he or she should try an over-the-counter laxative, which is a little stronger than fiber and made to relieve constipation.
Don't delay lifesaving medical treatment
"I had a professional basketball player who I called with his biopsy of a melanoma, and he told me he was too busy to come for the surgery. Imagine having to explain to someone that they wouldn't be busy for long -- they would just be dead."
Imagine having to explain to someone that they wouldn't be busy for long -- they would just be dead.
Dr. Debra Jaliman, assistant professor of dermatology
Many people don't believe it's possible to die from a mole, said Dr. Debra Jaliman, assistant professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine. But melanoma can quickly spread to major organs.
"Early detection is lifesaving," Jaliman said. "It can be a cure, or it can mean death, should a person choose to ignore their diagnosis."
To prevent skin cancer, it's important to use sun protection even on cloudy days and to see a dermatologist for annual skin checks.
Wet hair doesn't cause colds
"One patient I saw recently came in complaining of a cough and sore throat. She said she was totally to blame for catching a cold since she'd left the gym with wet hair."
Leah Rothman, an osteopathic physician who practices family medicine in San Francisco, says this isn't the first patient who's presented her with this theory.
There's absolutely no connection between wet hair and getting sick. The myth stems from an Old English saying about "catching your death of cold," she said. When the phrase was coined, people would avoid bad weather by staying indoors and it was the close proximity to other people that would lead to fatal illnesses, such as pneumonia.
"It's likely the playroom where she dropped off her child or the shared gym equipment she used," Rothman said. "Both those places are good sources for germs."
The best defense for avoiding illness is practicing good hand hygiene and wiping down any shared equipment.
Exercise alone isn't enough to lose weight
"The patient tells me he or she has been on the elliptical each day for 45 minutes, and that the machine says 700 calories have been burned. They get on the scale, and find there's been no weight loss."
It's a common myth that exercise alone will help a person lose weight, said Brad Saks, a clinical psychologist who serves as science adviser for Retrofit, a data-based weight-loss program. People tend to overestimate the number of calories they burn and how hard they worked out.
Even if you're on the stair stepper, "machines highly overestimate the amount of calories burned," Saks said.
"The maximum calories burned in an hour is 200 to 250, tops."
Saks says that when people exercise more, they tend to eat more.
"They'll make up the deficit quickly," he said.
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We can thank the Lord that through His grace and power, our past is forgiven, our present is changed, and our future is bright with hope for all He has prepared for us - Our Daily Bread, 10/13/13
Tuesday, July 8, 2014
In times like these
Our Daily Bread
"This Rock is Jesus, yes he's the one. This Rock is Jesus, the only one! Be very sure, be very sure. Your anchor holds and grips the Solid Rock!" Those lyrics are from one of my favorite songs from the Billy Graham Crusades. Wow! Singing that hymn at church seemed like heaven in my little mind!
When thinking about the metaphor of the anchor, I thought about the boats my family owned when I was growing up. We used the anchor to keep the boat in a specific spot, regardless of good weather or bad. Some folks think that the Jesus "Anchor" is only for bad, stormy times. The Anchor is also there to steady our location when we need to stop motoring around! The Anchor can keep us steady in a storm or keep us from floating around aimlessly! Praise God!
Lord, you are our Solid Rock. Please help anchor our hearts and lives in this Rock!
Teaching Tuesday
Surprised by Hope
by N.T. Wright
I finally started on this book last week. While the premise of the book seems sound -- finding hope in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ -- I have the feeling that I don't need convincing. I believe in all the things I have read so and have for a long time. I will keep reading.
*************************************************
“Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen” (Eph. 3:20-21 niv).
"This Rock is Jesus, yes he's the one. This Rock is Jesus, the only one! Be very sure, be very sure. Your anchor holds and grips the Solid Rock!" Those lyrics are from one of my favorite songs from the Billy Graham Crusades. Wow! Singing that hymn at church seemed like heaven in my little mind!
When thinking about the metaphor of the anchor, I thought about the boats my family owned when I was growing up. We used the anchor to keep the boat in a specific spot, regardless of good weather or bad. Some folks think that the Jesus "Anchor" is only for bad, stormy times. The Anchor is also there to steady our location when we need to stop motoring around! The Anchor can keep us steady in a storm or keep us from floating around aimlessly! Praise God!
Lord, you are our Solid Rock. Please help anchor our hearts and lives in this Rock!
Teaching Tuesday
Surprised by Hope
by N.T. Wright
I finally started on this book last week. While the premise of the book seems sound -- finding hope in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ -- I have the feeling that I don't need convincing. I believe in all the things I have read so and have for a long time. I will keep reading.
*************************************************
“Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen” (Eph. 3:20-21 niv).
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