My world has kind of turned on its ear so this might be jumbled, contradictory, befuddled, ambiguous, or just plain not make any sense. Me, Stacy, the "forever single girl" has that feeling....It was once a familiar feeling, but now, hmm, can't put my finger on it, but it's no longer familiar, but just as --- well--- tingly???
So, I've been talking to this awesome man for the past 6 weeks or so....Gosh, I've known of him for a long time, but he never knew me from Eve. I finally got to meet him a couple weeks ago. That's when I, as I knew me, started to fall apart. Had I been stuck in a rut? Become set in my ways? Become....dare I say, boring?? I'm enjoying the excitement of it, and trying to muddle through all the complexities that arise...(ie., baggage from the past) I've made up my mind to just go with it and enjoy this as much as I can. Life is to short to fret the big OR small stuff!
Wouldn't you know, that I am about to embark on the craziest, busiest 6 weeks I've had in a long time. Just when this new "thing" started.... Well, I suppose I will find out if I am worth the wait. (I'm pretty sure I'd like to continue what we've started, once the dust settles.) What fun, embarking on the whole-new-me train!! Wooo!Wooooo!!!
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Think Strong
I'll tell you right off the bat that these are not all MY words, but they ARE my beliefs....(the props go to Joyce Meyer).
Working with sick folks on a daily basis for 28 years, sometimes a pattern emerges and makes things perfectly clear. Our health is inextricably connected with our joy, and our joy is inextricably connected to our health.
It really bothers me when I hear someone say "MY cancer" or "MY diabetes" or "MY weight problem"!! Please stop claiming it as YOURS! You might be struggling with a problem or situation right now, but it is not YOURS. It seems to me that the ones who claim their illnesses are the ones who never over-come them.
Something that really weirds me out are people who seem to enjoy being sick. It weirds me out, but also saddens me....how can someone be so starved for attention in their life?? Perhaps it's a lack of self-confidence, or a lack of faith...but I just want to tell them how much more they would enjoy their life being healthy instead of sick. By the way.....you must make a choice and a commitment to be healthy--it doesn't just come when you decide you want it. You must make the right choices and do the hard work. Hard work, yes, but the pay-off is way beyond great.
Some others don't feel well most of the time and don't know why. They go from doctor to doctor and take all kinds of pills in search of relief....I just think they need to look inside themselves. (The following are Joyce's words)
The more negative you are---they worse you're going to feel.
The more critical and judgmental you are---the worse you're going to feel.
The less you laugh---the worse you're going to feel.
The more selfish you are---the worse you're going to feel.
(Thanks, Joyce!)
So I say: Love more---feel loved!
Laugh more---feel happier!
Give more---feel richer!
Compliment people more---feel more confidant!!
These three words go together: Health, Happiness, Contentment, and Joy
So we need to take steps to change some of the ways we think and speak. Choose your thoughts wisely. (YES, you CAN choose your thoughts! You don't have to wait for random crap to enter your brain!) Choose your words wisely, too. Treat yourself and others like the marvel that they are and start being amazing.
Working with sick folks on a daily basis for 28 years, sometimes a pattern emerges and makes things perfectly clear. Our health is inextricably connected with our joy, and our joy is inextricably connected to our health.
It really bothers me when I hear someone say "MY cancer" or "MY diabetes" or "MY weight problem"!! Please stop claiming it as YOURS! You might be struggling with a problem or situation right now, but it is not YOURS. It seems to me that the ones who claim their illnesses are the ones who never over-come them.
Something that really weirds me out are people who seem to enjoy being sick. It weirds me out, but also saddens me....how can someone be so starved for attention in their life?? Perhaps it's a lack of self-confidence, or a lack of faith...but I just want to tell them how much more they would enjoy their life being healthy instead of sick. By the way.....you must make a choice and a commitment to be healthy--it doesn't just come when you decide you want it. You must make the right choices and do the hard work. Hard work, yes, but the pay-off is way beyond great.
Some others don't feel well most of the time and don't know why. They go from doctor to doctor and take all kinds of pills in search of relief....I just think they need to look inside themselves. (The following are Joyce's words)
The more negative you are---they worse you're going to feel.
The more critical and judgmental you are---the worse you're going to feel.
The less you laugh---the worse you're going to feel.
The more selfish you are---the worse you're going to feel.
(Thanks, Joyce!)
So I say: Love more---feel loved!
Laugh more---feel happier!
Give more---feel richer!
Compliment people more---feel more confidant!!
These three words go together: Health, Happiness, Contentment, and Joy
So we need to take steps to change some of the ways we think and speak. Choose your thoughts wisely. (YES, you CAN choose your thoughts! You don't have to wait for random crap to enter your brain!) Choose your words wisely, too. Treat yourself and others like the marvel that they are and start being amazing.
Friday, June 17, 2011
Quiet strength
Earlier this week I described my dad by these two words: Quiet strength. My thoughts kept coming back to those words all week. My dad was a little guy...about 5'7" in his prime....and about 5'2" when he died, but ya didn't dare mess with him. He wasn't menacing by any stretch of the imagination, but folks just had a certain respect for him.....especially some of my old high school boyfriends :)
Two times, in particular, I can easily recall, when he used his quiet strength. Sean was in 9th grade and was chosen to play on the Varsity soccer team. This angered many people who thought their older sons should be playing "up" before Sean got a chance. Sorry folks, he was THAT good. Two mouthy dads started yelling disparaging things across the field toward the coach during a game....well within ear-shot of Sean. After about a minute, my dad had heard enough. He turned and squared off with these two big men with a "Listen here!". No one but the two men heard what else he had to say to those guys, but they apologized and we never heard another word from them the rest of the season.
The other time.....across the road from my house is 1/2 mile wide tract of woods with a stream running through. It is always packed with deer and turkey, though too close to homes to hunt. My boys were babies at the time and we were all outside enjoying the nice Fall day, until some yahoo parked his truck on the road, got his gun and headed into the woods. I never saw my dad move so fast! He was going to protect those grandchildren!! He was down off the porch and chasing after the guy yelling "You can't hunt here!" The guy turned and pointed the gun at my dad and shouted, "I'll take you out, old man!", but my dad just kept going toward him, completely unafraid. Miraculously, the guy stood motionless as my dad shared a few quiet words with him, then got in his truck and left.
You don't have to scream and fuss and lose your temper. You don't have to punch or threaten. I never asked him what he said to those guys.....all I know is that quiet strength is an amazing quality, and one that I am trying to develop in myself.
I wish I would have told him how awesome he was while he was living. If your dad is still on Earth, please tell him today how much you appreciate him.
Two times, in particular, I can easily recall, when he used his quiet strength. Sean was in 9th grade and was chosen to play on the Varsity soccer team. This angered many people who thought their older sons should be playing "up" before Sean got a chance. Sorry folks, he was THAT good. Two mouthy dads started yelling disparaging things across the field toward the coach during a game....well within ear-shot of Sean. After about a minute, my dad had heard enough. He turned and squared off with these two big men with a "Listen here!". No one but the two men heard what else he had to say to those guys, but they apologized and we never heard another word from them the rest of the season.
The other time.....across the road from my house is 1/2 mile wide tract of woods with a stream running through. It is always packed with deer and turkey, though too close to homes to hunt. My boys were babies at the time and we were all outside enjoying the nice Fall day, until some yahoo parked his truck on the road, got his gun and headed into the woods. I never saw my dad move so fast! He was going to protect those grandchildren!! He was down off the porch and chasing after the guy yelling "You can't hunt here!" The guy turned and pointed the gun at my dad and shouted, "I'll take you out, old man!", but my dad just kept going toward him, completely unafraid. Miraculously, the guy stood motionless as my dad shared a few quiet words with him, then got in his truck and left.
You don't have to scream and fuss and lose your temper. You don't have to punch or threaten. I never asked him what he said to those guys.....all I know is that quiet strength is an amazing quality, and one that I am trying to develop in myself.
I wish I would have told him how awesome he was while he was living. If your dad is still on Earth, please tell him today how much you appreciate him.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
More dad stuff.....
My dad was not the most handy man, for sure.....but he always liked it when I tried to help him. He and I could hitch up our trailer, hand-cranked dolly, electrical and all in a matter of minutes, then park, level and hook up the water, sewer and electric at the campsites. Gosh, I loved that....
He taught me to use a hammer, wrench and screwdriver....we even built two picnic tables which are still holding together!! I always got to help put up the Christmas lights, mow the lawn and trim the bushes. I wonder if he somehow knew I would be doing these "chores" by myself for the rest of my life.
I hope my dad knows how much I appreciate him whenever I'm able to cross another task off my list....even if it's just replacing a toilet seat, sealing a leak, or cleaning the gutters. In my mind I can hear him say, "I'm proud of ya, Tige."
He taught me to use a hammer, wrench and screwdriver....we even built two picnic tables which are still holding together!! I always got to help put up the Christmas lights, mow the lawn and trim the bushes. I wonder if he somehow knew I would be doing these "chores" by myself for the rest of my life.
I hope my dad knows how much I appreciate him whenever I'm able to cross another task off my list....even if it's just replacing a toilet seat, sealing a leak, or cleaning the gutters. In my mind I can hear him say, "I'm proud of ya, Tige."
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
More things dad taught:: Be grateful !
Instead of being annoyed at your dad jingling his keys and making you rush to get ready for school, be GRATEFUL he's giving you a ride so you don't have to walk the 2 miles.
Instead of complaining about what's for dinner, be GRATEFUL your mother makes you nutritious meals every dang night of the week.
Instead of whining about the long trip in the hot car, be GRATEFUL you get to go on vacation to the beach.
Instead of fussing about having to go to work as a lifeguard every weekend during the summer, be GRATEFUL you're a good swimmer, and be GRATEFUL for your job.
He'd say, "Some day maybe you'll appreciate being made to go to church, youth group, and choir every week."
Oh dad.......I do, now. I do.
Instead of complaining about what's for dinner, be GRATEFUL your mother makes you nutritious meals every dang night of the week.
Instead of whining about the long trip in the hot car, be GRATEFUL you get to go on vacation to the beach.
Instead of fussing about having to go to work as a lifeguard every weekend during the summer, be GRATEFUL you're a good swimmer, and be GRATEFUL for your job.
He'd say, "Some day maybe you'll appreciate being made to go to church, youth group, and choir every week."
Oh dad.......I do, now. I do.
Monday, June 13, 2011
my dad taught me this....
With Father's Day approaching, I've been thinking of some things I learned from my dad. Although he was a minister for 44 years, he wasn't "religious" as some people think the word means. He didn't go around praying and anointing everything with holy water, rather, he led by example. I never her heard him say a bad word about anyone. THAT is difficult.....have you tried? He said we should pity people who talk poorly of others, because they have left a door wide open for the devil to work through them. Now, stop and think for a minute. Do you know anyone (maybe even yourself??) who always has something negative to say about other people? Do they mock people (even you?) behind their backs, and say cruel, hurtful, and untrue things? Do they take every opportunity to roll their eyes and be cynical? Don't think any more about it. Drop it. Forget it. Don't give them the time of day, or the opportunity to let the devil's instrument have any effect on you. That really pisses the devil off. They can't hurt you, they are only making themselves look bad.
Have you wondered why you can catch disease, but you can't catch health? Well, by the same principle, you can catch unholiness (evil), but holiness must be chosen and pursued (just as health must be chosen and pursued). Which do YOU want? If you want to enjoy your life, choose holiness, health, and life. Hey, if you'd rather be a miserable, unhealthy witch, then choose to not even try. You won't hurt anyone but yourself and your family.
Thank you, Dad, for instilling in me that uncomfortable feeling I get when I hear someone say something awful. Thank you for letting me know who is behind it (the devil, the enemy, the evil one), and teaching me how to look beyond it, over it, and through it, so as to not give the devil any foot-hold in my life.
And, Dad.......sorry it took me so long to understand some of the lessons you taught.
Love, Tige (short for Tiger, as he used to call me)
Have you wondered why you can catch disease, but you can't catch health? Well, by the same principle, you can catch unholiness (evil), but holiness must be chosen and pursued (just as health must be chosen and pursued). Which do YOU want? If you want to enjoy your life, choose holiness, health, and life. Hey, if you'd rather be a miserable, unhealthy witch, then choose to not even try. You won't hurt anyone but yourself and your family.
Thank you, Dad, for instilling in me that uncomfortable feeling I get when I hear someone say something awful. Thank you for letting me know who is behind it (the devil, the enemy, the evil one), and teaching me how to look beyond it, over it, and through it, so as to not give the devil any foot-hold in my life.
And, Dad.......sorry it took me so long to understand some of the lessons you taught.
Love, Tige (short for Tiger, as he used to call me)
Sunday, June 5, 2011
trivial stuff to get off my chest..
Why do petty little things bother us sometimes? Like how people pronounce certain words, and other stupid stuff. I think we allow them to get under our skin, so the more we hear them, the louder it gets until it explodes. It's about to explode right here. Pretty innocuous explosion....but then again, I am pretty boring.
The word "Always" has a dang "L" in it. It's not pronounced "Oh-weez". Same with "Oh-most" or "Oh-ready".
What ever happened to the letter "L"? Even at the end of a sentence, it is not being pronounced. Like able, has become "A-boo." (I'm feeling better "already"!!!)
Comfortable has four syllables. Com-fort-a-ble. Not "Comf-ter-boo". Ing is being pronounced "Een". Interesting also has four syllables. In-ter-est-ing, not "in-trist-een". Oh, here's one! Forward has an "R" in it. It is not "Fo-ward". I hear so many people on TV saying fo-ward. Bugs me. (Yes, I know that was a sentence fragment---some things I don't care about.) The poor word "Probably" gets murdered! Here is the downward progression of probably: Prob-ly, prolly, pro-y, even heard pry a few times! Poor little left-out syllables!!
Our fast-paced society shortens everything from ATM to OMG to WTF. Let's take the time to slow down and pronounce our syllables, okay?
The word "Always" has a dang "L" in it. It's not pronounced "Oh-weez". Same with "Oh-most" or "Oh-ready".
What ever happened to the letter "L"? Even at the end of a sentence, it is not being pronounced. Like able, has become "A-boo." (I'm feeling better "already"!!!)
Comfortable has four syllables. Com-fort-a-ble. Not "Comf-ter-boo". Ing is being pronounced "Een". Interesting also has four syllables. In-ter-est-ing, not "in-trist-een". Oh, here's one! Forward has an "R" in it. It is not "Fo-ward". I hear so many people on TV saying fo-ward. Bugs me. (Yes, I know that was a sentence fragment---some things I don't care about.) The poor word "Probably" gets murdered! Here is the downward progression of probably: Prob-ly, prolly, pro-y, even heard pry a few times! Poor little left-out syllables!!
Our fast-paced society shortens everything from ATM to OMG to WTF. Let's take the time to slow down and pronounce our syllables, okay?
Friday, May 27, 2011
In the wilderness....
I have been trying for 5 days now to collect my thoughts and somehow organize them, so that I can convey how last weekend changed my life. Alas, my thoughts remain as wild as the wilderness I roamed.
It started at 5:00 Friday morning when Suzann, Jen and I packed up our vehicles and headed south to the Shenandoah.....Dear God! Just the word "Shenandoah" just speaks volumes of beauty as it rolls off the tongue, and it lives up to its name. Four hours later, one car was parked and we all drove 15+ miles further south. After saying the "Trail Prayer" we started hiking the Appalachian Trail back toward the first car. The "Trail Prayer" is simply something to the effect of : Dear God, Thank you for Your nature and Your beauty that surrounds us. Please bless each step we take and make Your presence known.
We passed streams and waterfalls....mile after mile of mountain laurel and rhododendron just ready to burst forth in bloom....treacherous climbs thousands of feet in elevation....unbelievable green, mountainous vistas, completely unspoiled by man. Such a sight to behold.....and something worth defending.
The day wore on and we wore out, but finally reached the other car. Off to Loft Mountain camp, where we set up our tents and, as Suzann has coined the phrase, "smeared off"...meaning, we used wet wipes to clean ourselves up. Jen built a nice fire and we enjoyed talking about the day and planning for the next morning. After bear-proofing the campsite,we soon hit the tents and were out like lights, although the sound of a fox and a couple of coyotes woke me a few times.
The next morning, after fixin' coffee on an open fire and praying the trail prayer, we hiked right from our campsite and headed south. Within the first mile we saw our first bear. He was so glossy, with a red tint to his black fur...yeah, we were that close. He seemed to pose for pictures before lumbering on. Saturday's hike was typical A.T. fare. Rocks, climbs, blooms and blossoms. Not much water, though we were wishing to soak our feet in the cold mountain water. We all hiked alone. Jen way out in front, me in the middle, and Suzann the caboose. Solitary. Peaceful. Alone with God and our breath. After 15 or so miles, we went back to our camp and actually got showers at the Loft Mt Camp Store. One dollar for 5 minutes of hot water. Ahhhh. We got another fire going and roasted some hot dogs...of course, Jen, the vegan, had her mish mash of black beans and quinoa. A couple of beers and a bottle of wine sure hit the spot! Night night!!
Jen's knee was really hurting, and Suzann was whining that her whole body hurt, so we planned to cut the last days' hike a little short. Trail prayer. I have to say that He made Himself so evident each and every day....the weather was optimal, the vistas breath-taking, and the friendship priceless. This day, we came to a sign that said "Dangerous bear area. These bears will aggressively harass you. Make noise. Do not run!" Jen was way ahead, but I stopped to wait for Suzann to catch up...because I didn't want her to walk alone through this area, or because I was afraid to go on by myself???? Both. We didn't see a bear, however, Jen sure did. One came out of nowhere and stood directly on the trail and stared at her. Imagine that happening just after reading that sign!!! Well, the bear was afraid of her and took off, thank God. The hike was way too short, and we were done too soon......saw another bear as we drove up Skyline Drive...it was standing in the middle of the road and I had to stop the car for it. It, too, posed for pictures. We stopped at Loft Mountain Wayside and had the best hamburger EVER, then headed home. A long drive, but with that peacefully exhausted feeling, and the beauty of the trail dizzying our minds....and the sense of accomplishment for what we had just done! Suzann and I had completed 300 miles of the trail! And Jen, her first 38.
It gets into your soul, the Appalachian Trail.....makes you long for more. Gives your mind a place to go when life gets stressful. Makes you thankful to be alive.
Thank you to my wonderful friends for sharing the experience with me. Let's go back soon!
It started at 5:00 Friday morning when Suzann, Jen and I packed up our vehicles and headed south to the Shenandoah.....Dear God! Just the word "Shenandoah" just speaks volumes of beauty as it rolls off the tongue, and it lives up to its name. Four hours later, one car was parked and we all drove 15+ miles further south. After saying the "Trail Prayer" we started hiking the Appalachian Trail back toward the first car. The "Trail Prayer" is simply something to the effect of : Dear God, Thank you for Your nature and Your beauty that surrounds us. Please bless each step we take and make Your presence known.
We passed streams and waterfalls....mile after mile of mountain laurel and rhododendron just ready to burst forth in bloom....treacherous climbs thousands of feet in elevation....unbelievable green, mountainous vistas, completely unspoiled by man. Such a sight to behold.....and something worth defending.
The day wore on and we wore out, but finally reached the other car. Off to Loft Mountain camp, where we set up our tents and, as Suzann has coined the phrase, "smeared off"...meaning, we used wet wipes to clean ourselves up. Jen built a nice fire and we enjoyed talking about the day and planning for the next morning. After bear-proofing the campsite,we soon hit the tents and were out like lights, although the sound of a fox and a couple of coyotes woke me a few times.
The next morning, after fixin' coffee on an open fire and praying the trail prayer, we hiked right from our campsite and headed south. Within the first mile we saw our first bear. He was so glossy, with a red tint to his black fur...yeah, we were that close. He seemed to pose for pictures before lumbering on. Saturday's hike was typical A.T. fare. Rocks, climbs, blooms and blossoms. Not much water, though we were wishing to soak our feet in the cold mountain water. We all hiked alone. Jen way out in front, me in the middle, and Suzann the caboose. Solitary. Peaceful. Alone with God and our breath. After 15 or so miles, we went back to our camp and actually got showers at the Loft Mt Camp Store. One dollar for 5 minutes of hot water. Ahhhh. We got another fire going and roasted some hot dogs...of course, Jen, the vegan, had her mish mash of black beans and quinoa. A couple of beers and a bottle of wine sure hit the spot! Night night!!
Jen's knee was really hurting, and Suzann was whining that her whole body hurt, so we planned to cut the last days' hike a little short. Trail prayer. I have to say that He made Himself so evident each and every day....the weather was optimal, the vistas breath-taking, and the friendship priceless. This day, we came to a sign that said "Dangerous bear area. These bears will aggressively harass you. Make noise. Do not run!" Jen was way ahead, but I stopped to wait for Suzann to catch up...because I didn't want her to walk alone through this area, or because I was afraid to go on by myself???? Both. We didn't see a bear, however, Jen sure did. One came out of nowhere and stood directly on the trail and stared at her. Imagine that happening just after reading that sign!!! Well, the bear was afraid of her and took off, thank God. The hike was way too short, and we were done too soon......saw another bear as we drove up Skyline Drive...it was standing in the middle of the road and I had to stop the car for it. It, too, posed for pictures. We stopped at Loft Mountain Wayside and had the best hamburger EVER, then headed home. A long drive, but with that peacefully exhausted feeling, and the beauty of the trail dizzying our minds....and the sense of accomplishment for what we had just done! Suzann and I had completed 300 miles of the trail! And Jen, her first 38.
It gets into your soul, the Appalachian Trail.....makes you long for more. Gives your mind a place to go when life gets stressful. Makes you thankful to be alive.
Thank you to my wonderful friends for sharing the experience with me. Let's go back soon!
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Three Great Weekends
The past two weekends have been great, and I am anticipating that this coming weekend will be equally as awesome. It started May 7th.....The Frederick Half-Marathon. It was so nice to spend time with Angie, whom I hadn't seen since high school 31 years ago! We trained on-line together and met once in Gettysburg for an 11 miler. She's such a wonderful person and we have SO much in common! Same values, political ideations, even down to the same clothes hamper, for Pete's sake. She got me involved in this "race of my life". Never had I been in a race with more than 800 runners. In Frederick, there were nearly 7,000 of us! Looking ahead was like watching an undulating sea of color filling the road....and so many townspeople lining the streets and cheering! My favorite was the darling beagle who seemed to be barking out a perfect "GOOOoooooo!!" The weather was perfect as perfect could be, and the legs felt great until mile 10. The rest was a bit of a struggle, but not unbearable, and I was pleased with my time of 2:15. Five minutes slower than I wanted, but I blamed that on the crowd. : )
Angie and I just had the best time! We hung out the rest of the day and rehydrated... I did get pretty violently ill afterward, but that part is easily forgotten. Hated to say goodbye to Ang and go home...we had become like sisters and I missed her immediately.
The second great weekend in a row consisted of a 5K run in Cresson with my peeps from work. It poured all the way up until the starting gun fired, then just barely drizzled throughout the race. A refreshing mist. All of us had great times...we all finished 2nd in our age groups, except Dr. Burk was 5th in his. Not bad considering he only ran 3 or 4 times in the past year! Some people are just athletically gifted. Grrr....I run almost every day and I only beat him by less than a minute. Did I mention that it began to pour again after we finished? It was like God parted the rain clouds in that little spot over Cresson just for us. It sure was a fun time, and a personal best time for me.
Now.....this coming weekend!!!! A 45 mile hike on the Appalachian Trail in Virginia.....15 miles per day, carrying packs and climbing mountains, and camping out at night with the bears and junk. Hopefully my two good friends, Suzann and Jen will be the tastier morsels for the bears.....just kidding ladies. I SO look forward to my A.T. hikes....nothing I have found brings me closer to God than being out in His nature. The trail is a blessing that I count every day, along with the multitudes of volunteers who maintain it from Georgia to Maine. This is the first time we have attempted a 3 day hike, so I am looking forward to the challenge. If I have any energy left, I'll let you know how it goes.........
Angie and I just had the best time! We hung out the rest of the day and rehydrated... I did get pretty violently ill afterward, but that part is easily forgotten. Hated to say goodbye to Ang and go home...we had become like sisters and I missed her immediately.
The second great weekend in a row consisted of a 5K run in Cresson with my peeps from work. It poured all the way up until the starting gun fired, then just barely drizzled throughout the race. A refreshing mist. All of us had great times...we all finished 2nd in our age groups, except Dr. Burk was 5th in his. Not bad considering he only ran 3 or 4 times in the past year! Some people are just athletically gifted. Grrr....I run almost every day and I only beat him by less than a minute. Did I mention that it began to pour again after we finished? It was like God parted the rain clouds in that little spot over Cresson just for us. It sure was a fun time, and a personal best time for me.
Now.....this coming weekend!!!! A 45 mile hike on the Appalachian Trail in Virginia.....15 miles per day, carrying packs and climbing mountains, and camping out at night with the bears and junk. Hopefully my two good friends, Suzann and Jen will be the tastier morsels for the bears.....just kidding ladies. I SO look forward to my A.T. hikes....nothing I have found brings me closer to God than being out in His nature. The trail is a blessing that I count every day, along with the multitudes of volunteers who maintain it from Georgia to Maine. This is the first time we have attempted a 3 day hike, so I am looking forward to the challenge. If I have any energy left, I'll let you know how it goes.........
Monday, May 2, 2011
I'm sure I gained ten pounds during my run this afternoon! There was a little break in the rain (geez!), so I seized the opportunity to take a good hilly route. The air was so thick and sweet with fragrant blossoms, that I felt like I needed a shot of insulin or I might lapse into a coma. Even breathing through my mouth, I could taste the sweetness. Felt like I should brush my teeth or deal with a mouthful of cavities. I'm not complaining!! It was wonderful. Wonderfully overpoweringly sweet. Sweet! Now, how do I work off that run???
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
I don't understand....
Dear God, I am so sorry for being mad at You right now. Literally THOUSANDS of prayer warriors have spent the last 3 weeks asking, seeking, knocking, imploring for Your intercession in the life of Regina Sweeney. We kept our faith, we were vigilant, kept positive, and trusted You for a miracle. Please forgive us for not understanding. We wanted so desparately for this child to be healed. We NEEDED her to be healed. Mostly, we wanted a miracle for her family, but there was a part of us that wanted to prove to the unbelievers that You are still with us.
Please forgive and be patient with us as we try to comprehend....and please bless the Sweeney family in some great way. As You sacrificed Your Son, You know what it is like to lose a child. Surely You will love and comfort them in the coming days, months, years....
Amen
Please forgive and be patient with us as we try to comprehend....and please bless the Sweeney family in some great way. As You sacrificed Your Son, You know what it is like to lose a child. Surely You will love and comfort them in the coming days, months, years....
Amen
Thursday, April 14, 2011
I admit I am under the influence....
For the past 4 years I have fasted on Thursdays during lent. This is, perhaps, the first year that I have totally ENJOYED it. This year is somehow different.... I ENJOY the discomfort. I ENJOY the struggle. In part because I am more cognizant of the pain that Jesus bore on the cross. Being hungry for a day in no way compares to the pain the He went through. This year, each time I feel a hunger pang, I knock on something. It reminds me to pray and be thankful for what He did for us. Our sins are forgiven! Unbelievable....He can wash away the stuff that I HAVE done?? Yes!
I drink only water and green tea.......and a glass of wine in the evening for communion. Yes, it's a very large glass of wine! (I am far from perfect!!) But somehow, on my empty stomach, with my large glass of wine, and meditation, everything is put into perspective. I feel nothing but love...such a meager word for how I feel...everything is more focused and energized toward living fully and loving completely. So much so, that I may continue my fasting ritual after Easter......if it makes me feel this good for 40 days, I can only imagine where I'll be by this time next year. Please know that you are loved.
I drink only water and green tea.......and a glass of wine in the evening for communion. Yes, it's a very large glass of wine! (I am far from perfect!!) But somehow, on my empty stomach, with my large glass of wine, and meditation, everything is put into perspective. I feel nothing but love...such a meager word for how I feel...everything is more focused and energized toward living fully and loving completely. So much so, that I may continue my fasting ritual after Easter......if it makes me feel this good for 40 days, I can only imagine where I'll be by this time next year. Please know that you are loved.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
People amaze me!
I just want to tell people how awesome I think they are! I know, I know....every day the news is all about what's WRONG with people, and how the world is falling apart. But there is a remnant!!! That core group of people who go out of their way to do or say something that just makes your day. For instance, today.....at work I have cans set up around the office for patients who may want to donate to my 3-day, 60 mile walk in September. I watched as a very frail little old man with a cane made his way to the check-out area. As SOON as he saw that can, a trembling hand searched for his wallet and he struggled to fold a bill and get it into the can. My heart melted! Dressed in a tattered coat, I knew that he gave from a good heart. I went up and hugged him and said, "I saw what you did, and I know you will be blessed ten-fold in return." All he could manage to get out of his mouth was, "I had a friend that......." he choked up and couldn't finish his sentence, but he sure hugged me back. God bless him, please. And may your good experiences always outweigh the bad.
Saturday, April 2, 2011
A few words to all the people in my life who have shut windows on my fingers as I reached out to you, to all the ones who have slammed doors in my face.......I just want you to know that the door does not latch on my side. The hardware has been removed, there is no lock, there are no hinges. I'm still right there on the other side of your door, and it is safe to push the door back open if and/or when you should ever want to do so. To all the ones who have turned their back on me.....if you look around, I am still facing you, smiling a warm smile, waiting to be your friend again. I have not been simply waiting, I have been out in the world making new friends, but there will always be room for you. I built no walls, my heart has not hardened. You are welcome here any time. ....Just so you know.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Elton John this Sunday!! I am really getting excited to see this larger than life icon. I'm so glad some of these performing artists hang around and do tour after tour....allowing us to hold on, in some small way, to our youth. It seems like yesterday, but it was sometime around 1974..riding in the back seat of an old Dodge with my family and Melinda Kennel on our way to Myrtle Beach for vacation. We called her "Tildy"...Tildy had one of those new fangled rectangular cassette players and we were listening to "Someone Saved My Life Tonight" and "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road"....we were trying to learn every word. Did he say "horny back toad"?? Since she had recorded the songs right off the radio station (98 WYCR), it was garbled and fuzzy, and sometimes the DJ would cut in....then the next song would be something like John Denver singing "Thank God I'm A Country Boy"! Oh those were the days......we didn't worry about sunscreen or, really, anything for that matter.
It was simpler then....no cell phones, no mp3 players, no ipods......and gas was around 39 cents a gallon..... Life goes on and things change and we adapt, but much remains the same. Like Elton John.
It was simpler then....no cell phones, no mp3 players, no ipods......and gas was around 39 cents a gallon..... Life goes on and things change and we adapt, but much remains the same. Like Elton John.
Sunday, March 20, 2011
So, I got asked out for the first time since last August.....by an 80-yr-old! ( God has such a sense of humor! ) I never expected it, so of course I was tongue-tied....what should I say so that I neither encourage him, nor hurt his feelings???? Hopefully, the fact that I continued to call him MISTER So-and-so, helped him to realize that I didn't (couldn't possibly!) see him as a romantic interest.
I used to think --perhaps-- I might get married again, but I gave up on that notion years and years ago. I love and enjoy my single life. If I had to count, I'd say about 70% of the married couples I know are miserable. The lucky ones, Susan and Galen, Paul and Suzann, have found that middle ground which is fortified by mutual love and respect. God tells me on a daily (sometimes hourly) basis, that I am SUPPOSED to be single, He has a reason and wants me to remain that way. I truly am fine with that, but sure would like to go to dinner every once in a while....
I used to think --perhaps-- I might get married again, but I gave up on that notion years and years ago. I love and enjoy my single life. If I had to count, I'd say about 70% of the married couples I know are miserable. The lucky ones, Susan and Galen, Paul and Suzann, have found that middle ground which is fortified by mutual love and respect. God tells me on a daily (sometimes hourly) basis, that I am SUPPOSED to be single, He has a reason and wants me to remain that way. I truly am fine with that, but sure would like to go to dinner every once in a while....
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Have you ever done something that for days (or years!) afterward, you still blush and feel a little sick? I had one of those episodes today.....I was nervous for days about being interviewed by the local TV station about my late friend, Tami, and our efforts to decrease breast cancer. Hopefully, everything I said will end up on the cutting room floor....my eyes were open so wide, and I talked way too fast, and said "um" way too many times, and even had a grammatical error (sorry mom). Ugh!!! There I go, blushing again!
Well, I can think of worse things......like the time when I was about 16 or 17....I was outside sitting on the curb by my house and two cute guys from school stopped to talk. I leaned back a little, and accidentally passed gas. Mortification!!!! Can't quite remember who the guys were now...I guess I tried to put it out of my mind. I think one was Roger Chenault, and the other might have been named Mike.....anyway, I hope THEY forget ME.
So this must be a lesson in how to laugh at yourself and not take every little thing so seriously....ha ha, I think I know how to laugh at myself....it's just when other people laugh AT me that it stings a bit. At least I am smiling now instead of blushing!
Well, I can think of worse things......like the time when I was about 16 or 17....I was outside sitting on the curb by my house and two cute guys from school stopped to talk. I leaned back a little, and accidentally passed gas. Mortification!!!! Can't quite remember who the guys were now...I guess I tried to put it out of my mind. I think one was Roger Chenault, and the other might have been named Mike.....anyway, I hope THEY forget ME.
So this must be a lesson in how to laugh at yourself and not take every little thing so seriously....ha ha, I think I know how to laugh at myself....it's just when other people laugh AT me that it stings a bit. At least I am smiling now instead of blushing!
Monday, March 14, 2011
Is anyone else finding it difficult to get the images from the disasters in Japan out of their minds? It's hard to fathom such utter destruction. I was just reading the Book of Mark two weeks ago....in the 13th chapter it tells of countries fighting each other, of great earthquakes, famine an pestilence. . . . . and then I thought, "There sure are a lot of people who have either never read this, or who just don't believe the Bible." I mean, isn't that enough proof to anyone? The chapter goes on to say that these things do not mean the end is near, but it is like the first pains of childbirth. Which means to me, that conditions are going to get a whole lot worse in the coming years. So, I beg of you, please get right in your hearts. Think on these things. . . are there things that you do that you know are wrong, but do them anyway because "society" says it's ok? I don't give a damn what "society" says. Society is screwed up, man. Gosh, even pot is legal now in California. Think about it, pornography, gay marriage, abortion, drugs... . all legal, but morally destructive. My sincere apologies to my gay friends. I love you so much, but cannot condone it. I do not judge you...it is not for me to judge. It may be your cross to bear, we all have them. Lord knows I have mine. But to all of us, please, at least try to do better. Be mindful, be prayerful...
Saturday, March 12, 2011
I thought I'd try 12 miles today...and was surprised at how slow I was. On a good note, the dog that bit me last week was not waiting for me today, and I didn't start another stampede of black angus cows again. There was evidence of flooding out on East Loop road. The water had receded off the road, but was running high and fast just a foot or so from the road....and the road was muddy! Saw a flock of beautiful red-winged black birds and enjoyed the serenade. Nature's music was interrupted by 3 low flying helicopters flying grid patterns overhead from miles 5-9....was beginning to wonder if they were looking for an escaped prisoner or something...
It was nice to get home and take a hot shower....now I have Arnold, the Cairn Terrier, for the rest of the weekend. He's a happy, loving doggie and I'm glad to have him around....(I hope he wants to go to bed early, though!)
Jordan hung out with me for a while after he got off work today. Such a great son...Tomorrow, I get to see my other love, son Sean.....he will be playing for the indoor soccer championship....expect blood! I'll let you know.
It was nice to get home and take a hot shower....now I have Arnold, the Cairn Terrier, for the rest of the weekend. He's a happy, loving doggie and I'm glad to have him around....(I hope he wants to go to bed early, though!)
Jordan hung out with me for a while after he got off work today. Such a great son...Tomorrow, I get to see my other love, son Sean.....he will be playing for the indoor soccer championship....expect blood! I'll let you know.
Friday, March 11, 2011
I would say that this was a stressful week, but stress is simply the devil trying to break us down. Now that I know that, it makes it easier to smile and keep going (the devil HATES that!). Joyce Meyer says "When you feel like you can't stand any more, keep standing!" Good advice. Not that my week was catastrophic, it was simply very busy, and I logged many, many hours at work----and did not saw many logs, if you know what I mean. I feel I was able to reach a few patients this week in my quest to show love to all of them. That is success! Missed my running program due to 3 days of heavy rain and snow, but be sure I will be beating my feet tomorrow, rain or shine.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
getting started.....
These days I seem to be clinging to faith. I'm so thankful that I was raised in a faith-based family, otherwise, I might be lost completely. Following the example of my parents I have learned that by having FAITH:
When you have nothing, you can look forward to abundance
When you are lonely, you can look forward to company
When you are exhausted, you can look forward to rest
When you are sick, you can look forward to good health
I have FAITH that all good things are coming my way! And that makes the drudgery of winter days full of hope and promise, and it makes me smile ...
Looking forward to tomorrow!
When you have nothing, you can look forward to abundance
When you are lonely, you can look forward to company
When you are exhausted, you can look forward to rest
When you are sick, you can look forward to good health
I have FAITH that all good things are coming my way! And that makes the drudgery of winter days full of hope and promise, and it makes me smile ...
Looking forward to tomorrow!
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