As was the case after the first appointed spirit, Emma was inclined to believe that her visit from Julie was all a hoax. Alright, she had gone somewhere just a little while ago, but that could have been a dream for all she knew. After all, Emma didn’t remember not falling asleep. With these thoughts, Emma glanced at the clock. Once more realizing that the second mentioned spirit was not there, she breathed a sigh of relief, and hurried herself off to bed.
Yet as she approached her bedroom, she saw a light on. Knowing that no one could possibly be in the room, Emma contemplated calling the police. However, it is best to mention that Emma let her curiosity got the better of her, and she opened the door. Just as she would have been quite unprepared to meet an intruder, she was also unprepared for the sight that met her eyes. Standing before her was another apparition. This time, it appeared to be a look-a-like of Monica, the angel from “Touched By An Angel,” complete with her heavenly glow.
“Why, Emma,” the spirit said. “Why do you just stand there? Come and let me get a good look at you. I have heard much of you.”
As Emma approached, for like with the first spirit, she could not imagine disobeying, she spoke coquettishly. “Well, who could you have heard about me from? Was it James, or perhaps Mark? No, it has to be Zach! He always raves about me!”
“You would be wrong on all accounts. Do I not bear a slight resemblance to a person who has already visited you this night? For a relative of mine came to see you—she calls herself the Ghost of Christmas Past. Do you recollect now?”
Emma spoke softly, all coquettish airs gone. “Yes, I do remember. You do not look alike, but since you are spirits….you are a spirit aren’t you?”
“I am the Ghost of Christmas Present, and I am here to show you Christmases of today. Like with my cousin eleven greats past, you will not be able to converse with any of the images you see. Rather, Emma, my purpose is to show you what people are saying, so that you might heed and learn.”
“Oh, gossip!!! I love that sort of thing. Tell me, will I be getting to see into the homes of all my friends? I would love some juicy tidbits.”
“We shall see,” the spirit said. “Now, touch my gown.”
Like with the first Ghost, Emma did as instructed. And yes, the same phenomenon occurred. Emma found herself transported out into the streets of New York City.
“Spirit!” Emma suddenly realized she was in her bathrobe. “What do you mean taking me out into the city without my being properly attired? What will people think?!”
“First off, you are not able to be seen,” the spirit said. “Second, is that all you think about, people’s approval I mean? And thirdly, why should you care if you were seen in your bathrobe? I know for a fact that you have paraded about this city with far less on many times.”
Emma was properly chastised, so much so that she remained quiet and let the Ghost of Christmas Present lead the way about town. In what only seemed like a few seconds, Emma found herself in the West Side.
“Why,” Emma exclaimed. “What are we doing here? I have no friends in this quarter. Indeed, it is not fit for a person of my social status to be here!”
“Watch,” the Ghost said, slightly fed up with Emma’s ego. “You do know who lives here, and she is thinking of you today. Come….”
Emma walked into the house. There was no point in knocking, for we know that she and the Ghost could be neither seen nor heard. It was a simply furnished house. It was not neat, nor was it dirty. It had the appearance of being happily lived in. As Emma glanced about, she saw Beverly Crump, the girl who always stopped her in the streets and spoke to her.
“Lord,” Emma noticed that Beverly was praying. “I lift up this day to you. I thank you for what it means, that you sent the gift of Your Son into the world. It was so undeserved, and that makes me all the more happier. I pray that you would bless our time with Aunt Viera…”
“Meredith Viera!!” Emma was shocked. “That girl’s aunt is the host of the Today show! Why doesn’t she flaunt that?”
“Why do you always feel compelled to flaunt what you have? Sometimes, things don’t need to be revealed, and that does not make us any less of a person.” The Spirit looked towards Beverly again. “Now, listen this time, without interrupting.”
Beverly had continued on with her prayer, for remember, Emma couldn’t be seen or heard. “If it isn’t too much to ask, please keep my aunt from badmouthing the way we live. I love her so much, and I really would like to avoid an argument. Lastly, I pray a special blessing for Emma. I hardly know her, Father, but I feel she is hurting. I think she is looking in places for happiness that will not give it. If only she would look to you! Minister to her, and get a hold of her heart somehow.” Beverly finished, and left the room, with a happy countenance and a light mind.
Long after her footsteps had ceased to echo, Emma still found herself in Beverly’s room. “She prayed for me?” Emma questioned. “Why? I certainly do not treat her right.”
“To Beverly, that doesn’t matter,” the Ghost said. “She has the love of Christ in her. It is a love that cares about all of her fellow human beings.”
“Well,” Emma harrumphed. “I do not need her prayers! I have plenty of other people who care. Show me someone else who isn’t praying for me…and yet loves me.”
With that, the Ghost did as Emma requested. Indeed, she was at the human’s disposal. However, the Spirit got to choose the destinations. This time, she picked a house that Emma knew quite well.
“My brother’s house was not what I had in mind!” Emma looked at the Ghost in disgust. “Why do you take me to places I do not wish to see?”
“You are taken here because you need to see him. You should know by now that you cannot shut out the past. You try to avoid your brother for some reason, a reason that you will not admit to yourself. Here, I will say it for you: you, Emma, are envious of your brother. You wish you had the type of happiness that he does…Is that not so?”
“Alright!!!” Emma yelled. “You are right. John has it altogether. He has a wife that adores him, he is expecting a baby, a nice house…I used to want that. But life changed for me, and I cannot get that now.”
The Ghost of Christmas Present had not heard the last sentence, for she had entered the house. Emma didn’t think she had any other choice but to follow, so that is what she did. As she walked in, she was greeted with memories, for her brother’s house looked just like her childhood home. Emma watched as her brother, sister-in-law, gathered around the table with several other guests. Before they all partook of the food, John, Emma’s brother, stood up.
“I want to thank you all for coming today. It is such a blessing! There is a person that is missing, and I wish she were here. My sister, Emma, had better things to do with her day and would not join us. I feel she has made a mistake, but it is her mistake. You all know the whole story about my sister and I; many of you know past hurts that she has inside of her. I just want to say that if any of you get a chance to minister a little bit of God’s love to her, it would mean so much to me. I pray for her daily, and I would love for you to as well.”
As John sat down, Emma heard a faint “hear, hear.” She glanced to see Brad, the boy who had jilted her, sitting between her nieces. Emma also heard her sister-in-law, Jen, say, "God bless, Emma, Father.” These two little tidbits went on unheard as John began praying for the food. After he finished, eating commenced.
“I….I,” Emma stammered. “I didn’t know John still felt this way. I assumed that as time went by, he would begin to despise me.”
“You underestimate your brother. Everyone at this table cares about you,” Ghost said. “Do you see a little bit of what you are missing?”
“Fine, I will give you that,” Emma said. “It looks like everyone is having a wonderful time, and my being there wouldn’t affect that in any way. However, what of my friends? I was going there after shopping, you know.”
Now, the Ghost knew the next stop would be painful for Emma, but she had to see it. So, she took her to where she requested. It was a house of revelry, of flirtations and immodesty, of loud music and dancing. Indeed, there was nothing to indicate the True Meaning of Christmas.
“Well, Emma isn’t here,” a girl said.
“What a shame! I knew she was going to wear an amazing outfit; that’s why I came.” This statement came from a guy named James, one who Emma had mentioned to the Ghost in the beginning.
“You can always count on Emma to please the eyes,” Mark said.
“That’s about it,” Zach said. “She is pretty ditzy, and if she didn’t flaunt her beauty, she wouldn’t be any good to be around. As it is, the party is fine without her. In fact, if Vanessa showed a little more, she would be a perfect substitute for Emma.”
Emma heard all this in a state of disbelief. “They feel this way about me?! I thought they liked me better than that!”
The Ghost stood back and looked at her. “They like you for the way you arouse them. They do not care about you as a person, or indeed as something to be treasure. They only view you like a child does a toy. They like it as long as it pleases them; when they outgrow it, or something better comes along, they will toss you aside.”
“NO!!!” Emma sunk to the ground in sobs. “What is to become of me?!”
“What indeed,” the Ghost questioned. “My time is done here. I must leave you now.”
“You cannot leave me here without one iota of hope!!”
However, the Ghost of Christmas Present was gone, leaving Emma where she stood…alone.
To Be Continued
Saturday, December 22, 2007
Monday, December 17, 2007
A Modest Carol--Part 2, or The Ghost of Christmas Past
“Emmmmaaaa.”
Emma awoke with a start, convinced she heard her name. When she glanced around the room, and saw nothing, Emma assumed it was her body playing tricks on her once more. She was just at the point of acknowledging that she might need a doctor, when she happened to look at the TV.
“What Not to Wear” had been over for some time now, but the channel wasn’t TLC anymore. Rather, there was only a black screen, black as midnight. Yet standing there was a woman, if she could be called a woman. To Emma, she looked like a combination of Ma Ingalls and Missie Davis/ Lahaye/ Tyler.
“Emmaaaa.”
There it was again. This time, Emma had seen the screen character open her mouth as the words issued forth. “What…what do you want? Who are you?” She spoke with a quaking voice, for how would you like to see an apparition you knew absolutely nothing about?!
“I am the Ghost of Christmas Past. I am here to show you your past, in the hopes you will remember. Were you not expecting me?”
“Well, I was told that you were to come. Yet I did not believe or trust, though it looks like I must now. But honestly, how can you show me things that have already happened. Time travel doesn’t exist you know.”
“You analyze far too much. There is a thing called trust and faith. Sometimes, you have to believe a person without seeing. So, when I say that I can show you your Christmases past, I can show you your Christmases past. Now, our time grows short. Come to the screen and hold out your hand.”
Emma had never heard anything so unrealistic in all her 21 years of life. However, she did not want to find out the results for disobedience, so she did has the Spirit instructed. She approached the TV with a trembling footstep and held out a hand. All of a sudden, Emma felt her feet lifted from under her, her body sucked into the device in a flash of light, and then, all was darkness once more.
“Where are we? Have you killed me or something? I can sue you for this!!” Emma was about to launch into another tirade, until the darkness began to fade and she found herself in a room.
“Do you know where you are now?” The spirit asked.
Emma glanced about. She saw a beautiful evergreen tree, covered in tinsel, ornaments, and popcorn garland. There were presents under the tree, and a family was seated on the couch. They were reading a book and sipping hot chocolate. It was a lovely picture to behold. Emma knew the house, the living room, at once. It had been her childhood home.
“Why of course I know it!! I grew up here. There is Mom and Dad and John my brother…Hello everybody!”
“They cannot hear you. You are here to observe and remember. That is all.” There was a pause in the conversation until the Ghost spoke once more. “You all look so happy. Were all Christmases as happy as this one? Even though you didn’t have that much money?”
“Oh, yes they were. Mom and Dad always tried to make the holiday special. Some years were better than others present-wise, yet my brother and I always felt loved and cared for.” Emma paused a moment, remembering the times that had passed by, which was what the Ghost wanted.
“What book are you all reading?”
“Oh, you say it is Christmas. So, that would mean we were reading the Bible. Luke 2. It was a tradition; Mom and Dad made it a rule that we could not open presents until we read the Bible. Wait….who might that be?”
Emma’s last question had come from hearing the doorbell ring. She watched as her father got up to answer the door, returning in a little bit with grandparents and some family friends. It added to the already lovely picture.
“Now I remember this Christmas. It was the last one we had with mother before she….”
“Before she died,” the Spirit finished. “Yes, I know it is so, for let us see another Christmas.”
They never left the room, but sure enough the picture changed. Dad and John were downstairs talking and reading, just like the previous Christmas. Emma was not there, yet she was coming down the stairs just as the picture cleared.
“Emma, my dear,” Father said. “Where have you been this morning? You missed our Bible reading.”
“I know I did,” Emma harrumphed. “I have decided that I am old enough to make my own decision regarding faith. I do not want to be a part of anything that took Mom away from us. It is fine for you and John; it isn’t for me. I still love you and Mom, and I can even respect your convictions. I can’t personally anymore.”
The Ghost looked at Emma. “You really said that? Didn’t it sound like dishonor to you?”
“Of course it did,” Emma shot back. “I believe I had some valid points. I was sixteen that Christmas. I was a girl in the prime of life when she needed a mother. I didn’t have one anymore, so I made do the best way I could. I tried to forget some of the things Mom loved best, the main one being her faith. And I think I turned out fine.”
“Oh, really? Look at your father,” the Spirit instructed. He looks hurt and grieved, as does your brother. All they can do is look on you with sad eyes as you open all your presents, gather them up, and return upstairs, without even giving them the time of day. Their ears tingle with the sound of your door slamming shut as you change and even more so when you go out to the garage and start your car. You chose to spend Christmas with your friends, instead of your family.”
“Spirit, it is my own affair.” Emma got flushed all of a sudden. “I truly had a wonderful Christmas. My friends and I had a lovely dinner, and I met a lot of great people. One of which was Julie you know.”
“I know,” the Ghost of Christmas Past replied. “I also know from that Christmas you changed. Watch, as we jump in time two years. See the change that has come over you.”
Emma did as the Ghost instructed. She couldn’t do otherwise. She beheld herself as a young woman of eighteen. “I see no change, Spirit.”
“You don’t? Look at you. You treat your brother with no respect, as he and his fiancée try to persuade you to stay home this Christmas. Your father is ill, they say. But no, you refuse…hotly. You are dressing in what was the current fashion then, a tight red dress that shouldn’t be called a dress, but a shirt. You walk at the door with a swinging hip and far too much makeup. Do you notice your brother? He turned his eyes when you came down and did not look at the door until you closed it. Hear what he says.”
“Jen,” John sighed. “My mother would be heartbroken at how my sister has become. Mom always tried to teach Emma modesty, yet it looks like she has thrown that out, along with her faith. I love Emma so much; it hurts me to see her lower herself like this.”
“I never knew he felt that way,” Emma said to herself. “I always felt that he saw himself as a goody two-shoes, that he looked down upon me.” Yet aloud she said to the spirit, “Where was I in all this?”
Emma did not know that the Spirit knew what she was thinking. Yet the Ghost did not let on as she changed the picture. The two now found themselves in a room. It was loud and noisy. Girls were giggling far too much and there was nothing Christmas-keeping in the manner of the people. Emma saw herself, flirting with many guys until one came up to her.”
Emma’s heart filled with anguish. “NO, Spirit!!! Not this vision!! I beg of you not to show it to me!!”
“You created it. I only show what has already occurred.”
Emma watched as her younger self greeted the young man and the two of them went off to talk. Emma could she that she was expecting some usual actions and traditions, like a kiss or two, but none came.
“Merry Christmas, Emma.”
“The same to you, Brad. Are you not well today? You do not seem yourself; most assuredly, you do not act like it.”
“Oh, I am more than well. A joyous event has happened. The Lord got a hold of my life last week. He has changed me, indeed He has.”
Emma put on a form of mock happiness, “I am so happy for you, Brad.”
“Yes, well, it changes things you know…between us.”
“What do you mean?”
“Emma, I cannot act this way with you anymore. I feel that it is wrong to be kissing you for fun when we are not married.”
“Brad, what are you saying?”
“Emma, tell me honestly. If I had had Christ in my life when we first met, would you be so interested in me now? I do not think so. You are the same; I am different. I want something higher than just flirting and typical behavior. I want to be around a woman who shares convictions with me, who will dress in a way that honors me. Emma, when we first met, I will say that I loved the way you dressed. Now, I don’t. You dress for many men, Emma. Thus, I wholeheartedly believe that you will have no trouble finding another guy.” Brad paused and held Emma’s hand. “I care deeply about you, Emma. Not as a physical attraction anymore, but rather as a person. I wish I had known all I know now, so I wouldn’t have caused you all this grief. I cannot re-write the past, but I can change the future. So, I must leave, and we must go on with our lives. May you be happy in the life you have chosen.” With that, Brad left, and tears spilled from both Emma’s eyes.
“Spirit, remove me from this place. I beg of you to see no more. LEAVE ME ALONE!!!”
As Emma made a lunge at the Ghost of Christmas Past, the Spirit gave a parting piece of advice. “Remember Brad’s words, Emma. You cannot change the past, but you can change the future. You cannot run, no matter how much you try.”
Suddenly, all was silent. Emma found herself in her living room once more, the TV back on TLC. The clock struck one o’clock. Once more, the scheduled Ghost did not make an appearance…or so Emma thought.
To Be Continued
Emma awoke with a start, convinced she heard her name. When she glanced around the room, and saw nothing, Emma assumed it was her body playing tricks on her once more. She was just at the point of acknowledging that she might need a doctor, when she happened to look at the TV.
“What Not to Wear” had been over for some time now, but the channel wasn’t TLC anymore. Rather, there was only a black screen, black as midnight. Yet standing there was a woman, if she could be called a woman. To Emma, she looked like a combination of Ma Ingalls and Missie Davis/ Lahaye/ Tyler.
“Emmaaaa.”
There it was again. This time, Emma had seen the screen character open her mouth as the words issued forth. “What…what do you want? Who are you?” She spoke with a quaking voice, for how would you like to see an apparition you knew absolutely nothing about?!
“I am the Ghost of Christmas Past. I am here to show you your past, in the hopes you will remember. Were you not expecting me?”
“Well, I was told that you were to come. Yet I did not believe or trust, though it looks like I must now. But honestly, how can you show me things that have already happened. Time travel doesn’t exist you know.”
“You analyze far too much. There is a thing called trust and faith. Sometimes, you have to believe a person without seeing. So, when I say that I can show you your Christmases past, I can show you your Christmases past. Now, our time grows short. Come to the screen and hold out your hand.”
Emma had never heard anything so unrealistic in all her 21 years of life. However, she did not want to find out the results for disobedience, so she did has the Spirit instructed. She approached the TV with a trembling footstep and held out a hand. All of a sudden, Emma felt her feet lifted from under her, her body sucked into the device in a flash of light, and then, all was darkness once more.
“Where are we? Have you killed me or something? I can sue you for this!!” Emma was about to launch into another tirade, until the darkness began to fade and she found herself in a room.
“Do you know where you are now?” The spirit asked.
Emma glanced about. She saw a beautiful evergreen tree, covered in tinsel, ornaments, and popcorn garland. There were presents under the tree, and a family was seated on the couch. They were reading a book and sipping hot chocolate. It was a lovely picture to behold. Emma knew the house, the living room, at once. It had been her childhood home.
“Why of course I know it!! I grew up here. There is Mom and Dad and John my brother…Hello everybody!”
“They cannot hear you. You are here to observe and remember. That is all.” There was a pause in the conversation until the Ghost spoke once more. “You all look so happy. Were all Christmases as happy as this one? Even though you didn’t have that much money?”
“Oh, yes they were. Mom and Dad always tried to make the holiday special. Some years were better than others present-wise, yet my brother and I always felt loved and cared for.” Emma paused a moment, remembering the times that had passed by, which was what the Ghost wanted.
“What book are you all reading?”
“Oh, you say it is Christmas. So, that would mean we were reading the Bible. Luke 2. It was a tradition; Mom and Dad made it a rule that we could not open presents until we read the Bible. Wait….who might that be?”
Emma’s last question had come from hearing the doorbell ring. She watched as her father got up to answer the door, returning in a little bit with grandparents and some family friends. It added to the already lovely picture.
“Now I remember this Christmas. It was the last one we had with mother before she….”
“Before she died,” the Spirit finished. “Yes, I know it is so, for let us see another Christmas.”
They never left the room, but sure enough the picture changed. Dad and John were downstairs talking and reading, just like the previous Christmas. Emma was not there, yet she was coming down the stairs just as the picture cleared.
“Emma, my dear,” Father said. “Where have you been this morning? You missed our Bible reading.”
“I know I did,” Emma harrumphed. “I have decided that I am old enough to make my own decision regarding faith. I do not want to be a part of anything that took Mom away from us. It is fine for you and John; it isn’t for me. I still love you and Mom, and I can even respect your convictions. I can’t personally anymore.”
The Ghost looked at Emma. “You really said that? Didn’t it sound like dishonor to you?”
“Of course it did,” Emma shot back. “I believe I had some valid points. I was sixteen that Christmas. I was a girl in the prime of life when she needed a mother. I didn’t have one anymore, so I made do the best way I could. I tried to forget some of the things Mom loved best, the main one being her faith. And I think I turned out fine.”
“Oh, really? Look at your father,” the Spirit instructed. He looks hurt and grieved, as does your brother. All they can do is look on you with sad eyes as you open all your presents, gather them up, and return upstairs, without even giving them the time of day. Their ears tingle with the sound of your door slamming shut as you change and even more so when you go out to the garage and start your car. You chose to spend Christmas with your friends, instead of your family.”
“Spirit, it is my own affair.” Emma got flushed all of a sudden. “I truly had a wonderful Christmas. My friends and I had a lovely dinner, and I met a lot of great people. One of which was Julie you know.”
“I know,” the Ghost of Christmas Past replied. “I also know from that Christmas you changed. Watch, as we jump in time two years. See the change that has come over you.”
Emma did as the Ghost instructed. She couldn’t do otherwise. She beheld herself as a young woman of eighteen. “I see no change, Spirit.”
“You don’t? Look at you. You treat your brother with no respect, as he and his fiancée try to persuade you to stay home this Christmas. Your father is ill, they say. But no, you refuse…hotly. You are dressing in what was the current fashion then, a tight red dress that shouldn’t be called a dress, but a shirt. You walk at the door with a swinging hip and far too much makeup. Do you notice your brother? He turned his eyes when you came down and did not look at the door until you closed it. Hear what he says.”
“Jen,” John sighed. “My mother would be heartbroken at how my sister has become. Mom always tried to teach Emma modesty, yet it looks like she has thrown that out, along with her faith. I love Emma so much; it hurts me to see her lower herself like this.”
“I never knew he felt that way,” Emma said to herself. “I always felt that he saw himself as a goody two-shoes, that he looked down upon me.” Yet aloud she said to the spirit, “Where was I in all this?”
Emma did not know that the Spirit knew what she was thinking. Yet the Ghost did not let on as she changed the picture. The two now found themselves in a room. It was loud and noisy. Girls were giggling far too much and there was nothing Christmas-keeping in the manner of the people. Emma saw herself, flirting with many guys until one came up to her.”
Emma’s heart filled with anguish. “NO, Spirit!!! Not this vision!! I beg of you not to show it to me!!”
“You created it. I only show what has already occurred.”
Emma watched as her younger self greeted the young man and the two of them went off to talk. Emma could she that she was expecting some usual actions and traditions, like a kiss or two, but none came.
“Merry Christmas, Emma.”
“The same to you, Brad. Are you not well today? You do not seem yourself; most assuredly, you do not act like it.”
“Oh, I am more than well. A joyous event has happened. The Lord got a hold of my life last week. He has changed me, indeed He has.”
Emma put on a form of mock happiness, “I am so happy for you, Brad.”
“Yes, well, it changes things you know…between us.”
“What do you mean?”
“Emma, I cannot act this way with you anymore. I feel that it is wrong to be kissing you for fun when we are not married.”
“Brad, what are you saying?”
“Emma, tell me honestly. If I had had Christ in my life when we first met, would you be so interested in me now? I do not think so. You are the same; I am different. I want something higher than just flirting and typical behavior. I want to be around a woman who shares convictions with me, who will dress in a way that honors me. Emma, when we first met, I will say that I loved the way you dressed. Now, I don’t. You dress for many men, Emma. Thus, I wholeheartedly believe that you will have no trouble finding another guy.” Brad paused and held Emma’s hand. “I care deeply about you, Emma. Not as a physical attraction anymore, but rather as a person. I wish I had known all I know now, so I wouldn’t have caused you all this grief. I cannot re-write the past, but I can change the future. So, I must leave, and we must go on with our lives. May you be happy in the life you have chosen.” With that, Brad left, and tears spilled from both Emma’s eyes.
“Spirit, remove me from this place. I beg of you to see no more. LEAVE ME ALONE!!!”
As Emma made a lunge at the Ghost of Christmas Past, the Spirit gave a parting piece of advice. “Remember Brad’s words, Emma. You cannot change the past, but you can change the future. You cannot run, no matter how much you try.”
Suddenly, all was silent. Emma found herself in her living room once more, the TV back on TLC. The clock struck one o’clock. Once more, the scheduled Ghost did not make an appearance…or so Emma thought.
To Be Continued
Traditional Holiday Baking
Our house has been filled with the smells of holiday baking. Peppermint, sugar, frosting....yummy. When I was getting a bunch of ingredients at the grocery store, in large quantities, I commented to myself the Christmas time is the only time when we can get away with eating like this. That is a good thing. My stomach can hate me enough as it is.
Yummy frosting and sprinkles. How can you not put them on sugar cookies?!
One of the many batches to come out of the oven.
This has to be my favorite cookie. I call it my Bronco cookie!! (Golly, I am becoming a sports nut!)
All done!!
Yummy frosting and sprinkles. How can you not put them on sugar cookies?!
One of the many batches to come out of the oven.
This has to be my favorite cookie. I call it my Bronco cookie!! (Golly, I am becoming a sports nut!)
All done!!
Monday, December 10, 2007
A Modest Carol
Julie Matthews was dead. This should be strictly understood and grasped, or else what I have to relate will not be understood. The point remains that Julie no longer had breath in her body. On the occasion of her funeral, there was no one to mourn, no one to speak a eulogy, no one place to place flowers upon the casket. Not even her friend, Emma Smith, attended the event. Julie was placed into the ground quite unceremoniously and quite unloved.
Emma and Julie lived in New York City. Regular shoppers at Tiffany’s and Saks Fifth Avenue they were. Their reputation as the best dressers, the best bargain finders, and the best snobs preceded them wherever they went. Emma was actually the better known of the two, and she knew it. In all honesty, Emma liked that now she alone could have the spotlight and reputation.
The day of Julie’s funeral found Emma browsing Times Square. It was a dreary day, but it was made even drearier by the lack of fashionable clothes. What was fashionable? Well, it was anything that the current favorite actress wore. It did not matter the color, the style, the lowness, or tightness. In the middle of her frustration, Emma was interrupted.
“Good day, Emma. A Merry Christmas to you.”
It was Beverly Crump. Simply put, Emma didn’t like her. Beverly could never be considered stylish, and thus, Emma did not believe it was okay to associate with her.
“It is not a Merry Christmas. Due to this ridiculous holiday, the stores are sold out of everything good to wear. I have no appreciation and joy for a holiday that does this every 25th of December to me.”
Surely you don’t feel that way!! Christmas is a wonderful time, a time to remember others and the Savior’s birth. Don’t you have family with which to celebrate the holiday?”
“Humbug all of it! Of what importance is the Savior? I believed once, but I know better now. My sister-in-law invited me to come over, but I said no. I cannot afford to spend one day away from the stores, especially after a day like today. Good day to you.”
Emma stormed off in a huff. She turned her feet towards home, when she heard….”Emmmmmaaaa!” Emma looked towards the bright lights of Broadway, yet she saw nothing. “Pull yourself together, girl. You haven’t eaten all day; you are hearing things, courtesy of your low blood sugar.” Yet Emma was still apprehensive; she didn’t usually hear things when she didn’t eat lunch…or breakfast.
She walked up the stairs towards her apartment. Facing her was the knocker, a usual knocker you understand. Yet when she glanced at it, she saw Julia’s face. It faded just as quickly as it came. Emma quickly opened the door, quickly locked it, quickly ran to her room, and quickly locked it too. She anxiously laughed.
“Perhaps my doctor is right; I can’t go without eating. I will put in a frozen dinner right now.” She did so and sat down to eat, with “What Not to Wear” playing in the background.
Scarcely had she settled in to the sofa when “Emmmmaaaa” was heard again. Then, appearing on screen, was Julie Matthews. Emma saw her yet refused to believe her eyes.
“Emma,” Julie said. “It is I, Julie, your friend and shopping partner for the past 5 years. I have come to warn you.”
“You are not Julie. I had a coroner and an undertaker take care of you yesterday.” Emma suddenly became defensive, though she knew not why. “I have not eaten all day until just now. You are a new health phenomenon I haven’t experienced.”
“Do not be ridiculous! You have never had these before. I am real and I have come to warn you. See this chain that is bound to me?”
“It is a lovely chain, Emma. The store bags from all your favorite stores. Did you design….”
Julie let out a yell. “This is not a lovely chain; it is a ponderous one. I did design it, though if I knew what I know now, I would not have. My life has been a failure and all because of this chain.”
“Oh, you were not a failure,” Emma said compassionately. “You gave everyone the best fashion guides around, especially with your lustrous brown hair and sense of style. You could have easily been a model. You made clothing your business, beauty your business.”
“I should have had love my business! Christianity my business! Modesty and sisterly concern my business! I did not, and I cannot erase that!! But you can…and I have come to warn you. Unless you want the unhappiness and tight chain and life I am doomed to wear…HEED ME!!!!”
Julie spoke with such vehemence that Emma could only heed. “Alright, alright!! What must I do?”
“You will be visited by three spirits. The first will come at 12 o’clock, the second at 1 o’ clock. The third will come I know not when, but it will come. Be prepared and change.”
With that, Julie faded from the TV screen, and Emma slumped into a faint. She awoke at twelve by the ding of her clock. She remembered Julie’s words. “Ah, it is midnight, and nothing has happened. I knew she was a figment of my imagination.”
However, she was wrong. The aforesaid spirit made her appearance.
To Be Continued.....
Emma and Julie lived in New York City. Regular shoppers at Tiffany’s and Saks Fifth Avenue they were. Their reputation as the best dressers, the best bargain finders, and the best snobs preceded them wherever they went. Emma was actually the better known of the two, and she knew it. In all honesty, Emma liked that now she alone could have the spotlight and reputation.
The day of Julie’s funeral found Emma browsing Times Square. It was a dreary day, but it was made even drearier by the lack of fashionable clothes. What was fashionable? Well, it was anything that the current favorite actress wore. It did not matter the color, the style, the lowness, or tightness. In the middle of her frustration, Emma was interrupted.
“Good day, Emma. A Merry Christmas to you.”
It was Beverly Crump. Simply put, Emma didn’t like her. Beverly could never be considered stylish, and thus, Emma did not believe it was okay to associate with her.
“It is not a Merry Christmas. Due to this ridiculous holiday, the stores are sold out of everything good to wear. I have no appreciation and joy for a holiday that does this every 25th of December to me.”
Surely you don’t feel that way!! Christmas is a wonderful time, a time to remember others and the Savior’s birth. Don’t you have family with which to celebrate the holiday?”
“Humbug all of it! Of what importance is the Savior? I believed once, but I know better now. My sister-in-law invited me to come over, but I said no. I cannot afford to spend one day away from the stores, especially after a day like today. Good day to you.”
Emma stormed off in a huff. She turned her feet towards home, when she heard….”Emmmmmaaaa!” Emma looked towards the bright lights of Broadway, yet she saw nothing. “Pull yourself together, girl. You haven’t eaten all day; you are hearing things, courtesy of your low blood sugar.” Yet Emma was still apprehensive; she didn’t usually hear things when she didn’t eat lunch…or breakfast.
She walked up the stairs towards her apartment. Facing her was the knocker, a usual knocker you understand. Yet when she glanced at it, she saw Julia’s face. It faded just as quickly as it came. Emma quickly opened the door, quickly locked it, quickly ran to her room, and quickly locked it too. She anxiously laughed.
“Perhaps my doctor is right; I can’t go without eating. I will put in a frozen dinner right now.” She did so and sat down to eat, with “What Not to Wear” playing in the background.
Scarcely had she settled in to the sofa when “Emmmmaaaa” was heard again. Then, appearing on screen, was Julie Matthews. Emma saw her yet refused to believe her eyes.
“Emma,” Julie said. “It is I, Julie, your friend and shopping partner for the past 5 years. I have come to warn you.”
“You are not Julie. I had a coroner and an undertaker take care of you yesterday.” Emma suddenly became defensive, though she knew not why. “I have not eaten all day until just now. You are a new health phenomenon I haven’t experienced.”
“Do not be ridiculous! You have never had these before. I am real and I have come to warn you. See this chain that is bound to me?”
“It is a lovely chain, Emma. The store bags from all your favorite stores. Did you design….”
Julie let out a yell. “This is not a lovely chain; it is a ponderous one. I did design it, though if I knew what I know now, I would not have. My life has been a failure and all because of this chain.”
“Oh, you were not a failure,” Emma said compassionately. “You gave everyone the best fashion guides around, especially with your lustrous brown hair and sense of style. You could have easily been a model. You made clothing your business, beauty your business.”
“I should have had love my business! Christianity my business! Modesty and sisterly concern my business! I did not, and I cannot erase that!! But you can…and I have come to warn you. Unless you want the unhappiness and tight chain and life I am doomed to wear…HEED ME!!!!”
Julie spoke with such vehemence that Emma could only heed. “Alright, alright!! What must I do?”
“You will be visited by three spirits. The first will come at 12 o’clock, the second at 1 o’ clock. The third will come I know not when, but it will come. Be prepared and change.”
With that, Julie faded from the TV screen, and Emma slumped into a faint. She awoke at twelve by the ding of her clock. She remembered Julie’s words. “Ah, it is midnight, and nothing has happened. I knew she was a figment of my imagination.”
However, she was wrong. The aforesaid spirit made her appearance.
To Be Continued.....
Tuesday, December 04, 2007
So Sorry!
This post is going to be VERY short. I have a slight headache (due to the fact I have been gone since 9 am!) I am in the throes of writer's block....which would account for the fact that I haven't done good posts lately! However, rest assured, I am doing very well. =) Our house is set up for Christmas, we've been having seasonal music and movies playing, we have started our advent traditions....I ought to post pictures of it all. Actually, I plan to do a lot this year!
In the meantime, enjoy these past posts and pictures of this time last year! Since most of you are new readers, I thought you'd enjoy! Or to those who were around last year, perhaps you would enjoy my thoughts a second time:-) Goofing aside... I have been praying for you all, and I will TRY to write more soon. I hope you all are having a blessed holiday season, remembering Jesus is why we celebrate!
Setting Up
Christmas Party
Conversation Starter
Commercialism
The Most Important Gift
Christmas 2006 Memories
In the meantime, enjoy these past posts and pictures of this time last year! Since most of you are new readers, I thought you'd enjoy! Or to those who were around last year, perhaps you would enjoy my thoughts a second time:-) Goofing aside... I have been praying for you all, and I will TRY to write more soon. I hope you all are having a blessed holiday season, remembering Jesus is why we celebrate!
Setting Up
Christmas Party
Conversation Starter
Commercialism
The Most Important Gift
Christmas 2006 Memories
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Garrett's 16 Favorite Things On His 16th Birthday
Today is Garrett's 16th birthday. Golly, they grow up so fast! =) I wanted to do something different to honor him today, so I want you all to know a little more about this very essential part of the family.
Favorite Color: Hunter green or orange
Favorite Food: Chicken and Nuggies. (Hard to explain....it's fried chicken in a cream of mushroom soup gravy over egg noodles. Yummy!)
Favorite Music Group/ Person: Brandon Heath
Favorite Movie: Rocketman
Favorite Book: The Strange Ordeal of the Normandier
Favorite thing to do: mess with wood and bass fish
Favorite Sport: Baseball
Favorite Baseball Team: Boston Red Sox
Favorite College Football Team: Florida Gators and Oklahoma State Cowboys
Favorite Vacation We've Been one: "All good in different ways."
Favorite Book of the Bible: Acts
Favorite Thing We Do As A Family: Watch World Series Games
One place you want to go before death: revisit Fenway Park or go to Moscow, Russia
Favorite Animal: Dog
Favorite Ice Cream Flavor: "Anything but straight vanilla"
Favorite Memory of Me and You: the times we play computer games
Happy Birthday, Garrett. I am glad that you are my brother!! I love you and I look forward to the new experiences we will have in the forthcoming year.
Monday, November 26, 2007
Trashing the Dress
Wedding dresses across America are being dunked in rivers, doused in pools, splattered in mud, and simply messed up--all in the name of a highly personalized new style of photography.These pictures are making quite a splash. The trend is called Trash the Dress and photographers say it is sweeping Idaho and the rest of the country. For ages, brides cherished the dresses the marry in. But the times, they are a changing. Read Article (Outside Link)
When I saw this piece on my local news, I was stunned. Why are women doing this? Do they really think their wedding pictures will be attractive?
The fact that women are willing to do anything---even take a dip in the river--just because it is "fashionable" is sad. While people are willing to muddy their dress, the same can be said of purity. And yes, I can be just as guilty. The wrong thoughts, the flirting, how far we go physically...we are all putting a little mud on our future wedding dresses. We might not have thrown the actually stuff on ourselves, but white is the symbol of purity. When we sully it, it shall remain.
Something to think on. We wouldn't dream of going to the extremes featured in this article. However, when I have my wedding photos, will "mud" be seen on my dress? We all should be praying that God would help us to guard our hearts and minds so as to avoid this disaster!
~~I did this on ModesTeen (my other blog that I co-author) and I wanted to share it here!~~
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
My Thanksgiving To God
Amongst the turkey dinner, the times with family and friends, watching the Macy's parade, and sleeping, there is one detail that sadly gets overlooked. Today, people think Thanksgiving is just about these details. However, there is more to the day. While we should do it always, it is a day set apart to remember our blessings from our Loving Father. I desire to do just that; I realize how much I have been blessed this year.
First and foremost, I give thanks for the Lord himself. The fact that He has chosen me as His daughter is humbling enough. Yet over this past year, He has taught and revealed so much to me. I have had some low points, yet He has been there. He magnified Himself; He brought me to my knees with the knowledge I can't go on with Him. While this might sound odd, I am thankful for the opportunities that have arisen to grow closer to Him.
I am so thankful for where I live. The United States has his problems, but I am free. I can be homeschooled, read and study the Word, and I can vote for candidates that I want. That is something that I do not want to take for granted. I am also thankful for the hearth that I have to call my own, for the food to keep me full, and for fleece blankets to keep me warm.
My family is such a blessing. I can't imagine having any other. No, we are not perfect; we just try to live in a manner worthy and pleasing unto God. I have a special relationship with each of my family members. They are not same, and I am thankful for that. I have different memories for Dad, Mom, and Garrett. I love that. My family challenges me, loves me when I am unlovable, roots me on when I try something, and encourages me on the path less traveled.
The Lord has granted more than I ever thought in the friendship realm. I am thankful for the lessons I had to learn on the subject; I had to learn that no friends are better than the wrong ones. However, now I have several "sisters states away" who I can count on to pray for me. I have never met any of them face to face (hopefully, that will change) but I appreciate them anyway.
For the things taken for granted: the ability to play the piano, to walk and see, an education that opens my mind to new realms, the convictions that the Lord has given me....they are all important to me. Rather, they are God's, and I just praise Him for them.
Lord, I thank you for all of your blessings. I pray that I won't get caught up on what I don't have, but rather on what I do. You are good, far too good to me. I praise you! May your name be magnified this year, just as the Pilgrims sought to do so long ago.
Happy Thanksgiving, Everyone!! Oh, and yes, I am thankful for t
he little bit of snow we received yesterday. No, it isn't still here; in fact, it was gone by noon. However, it was such a nice surprise to come downstairs and see fluttering snowflakes. I am so thankful to live in a state that has seasons! Maybe, this year, I will get to be thankful for "a White Christmas!!"
he little bit of snow we received yesterday. No, it isn't still here; in fact, it was gone by noon. However, it was such a nice surprise to come downstairs and see fluttering snowflakes. I am so thankful to live in a state that has seasons! Maybe, this year, I will get to be thankful for "a White Christmas!!"Sunday, November 18, 2007
For My Enjoyment, Not Necessarily Yours. I Mean, Do You Want Football Pictures?!
Dad and I on our way to the game. It was an "orange out," so I wore orange. Dad is too, by the way. It was supposed to be rainy; God blessed us from getting rained on! I love when it rains...just not when I am outside!
Our wonderfully unique blue playing field. We lovingly dumb it "the smurf turf" :-) (This was the view from our seats. Nice, huh?! I was extremely thankful to Dad's banker for them!)
Singing the National Anthem
The smoking helmet, out of which players appear
Even our governor, C.L. "Butch" Otter, had the same idea of going to the state rivalry game. He is the one on the end; his wife is next to him. Several other "illustrious" people were there too: the CEO of the Sugar Bowl and my favorite, several reporters from the best tv station in the valley, KTVB.
One of many Boise State touchdowns
The final score. Boise State is on the left. GO ORANGE, GO BIG BLUE, FIGHT! FIGHT! BSU !!! I had such a wonderful time with Dad. Yes, the game outcome was great, but the memories...those are far better!
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Teens and Their Families
All you have to do is read my blog; I am not ordinary!! I take delight in things most teenage girls can't stand, and I dislike their likes...for the most part. One of these instances is that I absolutely love being around my family!! I don't mean to stereotype, but it seems that most people can't stand being seen with their parents, let alone do things with them.
Garrett and I are different. We take joy in the family memories we create. I have shared some with you. You know we enjoy the theme dinners, the family vacations, game nights and movie nights. We take pleasure in having parents as our best friends. Sure, we love being with peers, but when most of them don't live near you..... It is just a wonderful thing to have people you love near you ALL THE TIME. We aren't a perfect family; we can squabble and bicker. However, we thank the Lord for an extra measure of grace each and every day.
As I look at the majority of families, I see people out and about, but it is rarely with their parent. I am saddened by this. They are missing so much. There are memories to be made and found. I look at my schedule this weekend. I am out with Mom twice in three days. Tonight we are going to a Christmas open house at the tea room (with complimentary tea and desserts...always a good thing:-) Tomorrow is our normal Boise Philharmonic outing. Perhaps one day Dad and Mom will go, but I love hearing all of the music myself. For Saturday, I got the biggest shock of my life...and it will probably shock you too.
I bet you didn't think I enjoyed watching college football. Strike that, Boise State football. I mean, my blog is roses. I am a feminine girl; football is anything but feminine. Well, I am, and Dad surprised me with the news that he got tickets from a friend for Saturday's game...the last home one of the season, and it is the big state rivalry too. I am so excited, and I will definitely wear orange and blue.
The point to this post wasn't to brag about the things I do with my family. It was to show that I enjoy them. (Lest you think I don't care about my brother, I enjoy things with him too.) I have friends who have talked about their families of late, and I wanted to as well. This is just one of the many things I am thankful to my Father in Heaven for this day. It is a blessing that I do not deserve!
Garrett and I are different. We take joy in the family memories we create. I have shared some with you. You know we enjoy the theme dinners, the family vacations, game nights and movie nights. We take pleasure in having parents as our best friends. Sure, we love being with peers, but when most of them don't live near you..... It is just a wonderful thing to have people you love near you ALL THE TIME. We aren't a perfect family; we can squabble and bicker. However, we thank the Lord for an extra measure of grace each and every day.
As I look at the majority of families, I see people out and about, but it is rarely with their parent. I am saddened by this. They are missing so much. There are memories to be made and found. I look at my schedule this weekend. I am out with Mom twice in three days. Tonight we are going to a Christmas open house at the tea room (with complimentary tea and desserts...always a good thing:-) Tomorrow is our normal Boise Philharmonic outing. Perhaps one day Dad and Mom will go, but I love hearing all of the music myself. For Saturday, I got the biggest shock of my life...and it will probably shock you too.
I bet you didn't think I enjoyed watching college football. Strike that, Boise State football. I mean, my blog is roses. I am a feminine girl; football is anything but feminine. Well, I am, and Dad surprised me with the news that he got tickets from a friend for Saturday's game...the last home one of the season, and it is the big state rivalry too. I am so excited, and I will definitely wear orange and blue.
The point to this post wasn't to brag about the things I do with my family. It was to show that I enjoy them. (Lest you think I don't care about my brother, I enjoy things with him too.) I have friends who have talked about their families of late, and I wanted to as well. This is just one of the many things I am thankful to my Father in Heaven for this day. It is a blessing that I do not deserve!
Friday, November 09, 2007
The Importance of...
Politics. It is one of those subjects that people are repulsed by. Most try not to think about; it is something left to big wigs and those who can do things. Me, I love the subject. I could never get involved in the arena; it is better left to men. However, that doesn't mean I can't love it! I read all about it, I have a tendency to stay up on election nights, and I pay attention to the returns. You all know; I posted about the election of 2006.
Ever since I was little, I have been "involved" in the process. I have been to polling places ever since I was two. Mom says I held a Bush/Quayle sign in 1992. I cannot remember that, but I believe her. As I got older, I look on with envy as she cast the ballot, wishing for my turn. I am not anxious to grow up, but voting next year....that will be exciting.
I realize I am in a category entirely by myself. Most young adults don't vote. I do not have the exact numbers, but I know that they are low! I have grown to recongnize that the ability to vote is an immense privlege. Other nations would die for this....and we have a tendency to take it for granted.
The Rebelution has encouraged teens to get involved, and I quite agree. That means something different for every one. Some are more active, working on the actual campaign and such. Others can vote. However, we all can pray!! Regardless of who you are going for in the next election, I would encourage you to do something. You might not agree with this statement, but I believe that if those who do desire God and righteousness don't rise up, we are doomed as a nation. We need to elect leaders who seek God's policies above their own.
Now, I live in a state where the candidate nomination is all but announced. It isn't who we are going for; guess who we are voting for? (Please don't come away with Hilary Clinton!) However, yes, I can feel that casting a ballot is absolutely pointless. I still will, though. I want to exercise my God-given freedom in some small way. This is how God can use me to impact the world. Who says young adults can't do things?!
Ever since I was little, I have been "involved" in the process. I have been to polling places ever since I was two. Mom says I held a Bush/Quayle sign in 1992. I cannot remember that, but I believe her. As I got older, I look on with envy as she cast the ballot, wishing for my turn. I am not anxious to grow up, but voting next year....that will be exciting.
I realize I am in a category entirely by myself. Most young adults don't vote. I do not have the exact numbers, but I know that they are low! I have grown to recongnize that the ability to vote is an immense privlege. Other nations would die for this....and we have a tendency to take it for granted.
The Rebelution has encouraged teens to get involved, and I quite agree. That means something different for every one. Some are more active, working on the actual campaign and such. Others can vote. However, we all can pray!! Regardless of who you are going for in the next election, I would encourage you to do something. You might not agree with this statement, but I believe that if those who do desire God and righteousness don't rise up, we are doomed as a nation. We need to elect leaders who seek God's policies above their own.
Now, I live in a state where the candidate nomination is all but announced. It isn't who we are going for; guess who we are voting for? (Please don't come away with Hilary Clinton!) However, yes, I can feel that casting a ballot is absolutely pointless. I still will, though. I want to exercise my God-given freedom in some small way. This is how God can use me to impact the world. Who says young adults can't do things?!
Monday, November 05, 2007
A Blog of Note
I enjoy reading ya'lls blogs. To know what the Lord is teaching you, things that are going on your daily lives, I love it all. I pray that as you read mine, you are ministered to, and that you see Christ high and lifted up.
Well, I would like to direct your attention to a blog I think you would enjoy. It is my friend Jessica. As a few of you know, I did Homestead Blogger for a while; this is where I met her. Actually, Mom had gone on her blog and directed me to it. I am so glad that I did. Jessica is walking the path that I plan to, as she is a 20 year old young woman who is staying at home. I began writing to her, and that was the beginning.
I have enjoyed getting to know her, and I have been greatly encouraged by her writings. I think you all would be too. Her blog, What's a Girl To Do, will touch on home business, Seasons at Home Magazine (which her family puts out...and Mom and I write for,) recipes, and happenings in her life as the oldest of ten children. So, without further ado, I would read it...though you will only have a blank page for a few days!
Well, I would like to direct your attention to a blog I think you would enjoy. It is my friend Jessica. As a few of you know, I did Homestead Blogger for a while; this is where I met her. Actually, Mom had gone on her blog and directed me to it. I am so glad that I did. Jessica is walking the path that I plan to, as she is a 20 year old young woman who is staying at home. I began writing to her, and that was the beginning.
I have enjoyed getting to know her, and I have been greatly encouraged by her writings. I think you all would be too. Her blog, What's a Girl To Do, will touch on home business, Seasons at Home Magazine (which her family puts out...and Mom and I write for,) recipes, and happenings in her life as the oldest of ten children. So, without further ado, I would read it...though you will only have a blank page for a few days!
Thursday, November 01, 2007
I'd Rather Be Feminine Than A Feminist
I am following the 2008 election pretty closely. Strike that, I am keeping close tabs on Mike Huckabee's campaign. However, I know stuff about the other candidates as well. Hilary Rodham Clinton has received the endorsement of National Organization of Women (NOW) When she recived this, she proudly stated, "Yes, I am a feminist!"
Now, compare this to the movie, The Village. When Ivy asks Lucius how he can not be afraid of the dangers around, Lucius says that he is when he thinks of her in harm. He cares about her above all others and wants to keep her safe....and she doesn't protest or anything! In fact, she seems to appreciate it!
There is a big difference in these two women. One represents the nowadays woman, the one who wants to throw off the shackles of mankind. She desires to be in control. If there was danger, she would be the one sitting on the doorstep. The other girl represents women long ago, women who knew what it meant to be regarded and protected. She realized that men and women are vastly different...and that isn't necessarily a bad thing.
However, women like Ivy aren't very common nowadays. And I miss it. Like with the changing of dress, I believe what we have lost is irreplaceable. Due to the vast majority of women wanting to be in control, men don't step up to the plate anymore! They are willing to let women protect themselves, run politics, and abandon their God-given roles as wives and mothers.
Make no mistake, I do not hate people who are feminists. They are human beings created in the image of God. I find their policies off...but that is a different matter! I just wish they hadn't wrecked it for the rest of us, those who do desire men who are gentlemen. I do not mind being "branded" as the weaker vessel, especially if that means men open the door for you, men protect you, things like that.
I do not know how to communicate to guys that I want the old ways in this area of life. All I can do is pray. I can pray that men like Mr. Darcy's wouldn't be confined to fictional novels. I can pray that men like Peter Marshall would rise up. God would have to do a miracle to thwart the path we women are currently on...and he can! If you all desire a change, let's raise our voices to the One who hears! Maybe we can make things better for our children and future generations!
Now, compare this to the movie, The Village. When Ivy asks Lucius how he can not be afraid of the dangers around, Lucius says that he is when he thinks of her in harm. He cares about her above all others and wants to keep her safe....and she doesn't protest or anything! In fact, she seems to appreciate it!
There is a big difference in these two women. One represents the nowadays woman, the one who wants to throw off the shackles of mankind. She desires to be in control. If there was danger, she would be the one sitting on the doorstep. The other girl represents women long ago, women who knew what it meant to be regarded and protected. She realized that men and women are vastly different...and that isn't necessarily a bad thing.
However, women like Ivy aren't very common nowadays. And I miss it. Like with the changing of dress, I believe what we have lost is irreplaceable. Due to the vast majority of women wanting to be in control, men don't step up to the plate anymore! They are willing to let women protect themselves, run politics, and abandon their God-given roles as wives and mothers.
Make no mistake, I do not hate people who are feminists. They are human beings created in the image of God. I find their policies off...but that is a different matter! I just wish they hadn't wrecked it for the rest of us, those who do desire men who are gentlemen. I do not mind being "branded" as the weaker vessel, especially if that means men open the door for you, men protect you, things like that.
I do not know how to communicate to guys that I want the old ways in this area of life. All I can do is pray. I can pray that men like Mr. Darcy's wouldn't be confined to fictional novels. I can pray that men like Peter Marshall would rise up. God would have to do a miracle to thwart the path we women are currently on...and he can! If you all desire a change, let's raise our voices to the One who hears! Maybe we can make things better for our children and future generations!
Friday, October 26, 2007
Of Fun and Formal Dinners
I know this is an extremely biased statement, but I think I have the best family in the world!!! I am so glad that I have been blessed to be a part of this family; I certainly did not deserve this gift from God. Anyway, one of the things I love best is the spontaneity we always seem to have.
I wrote in this post that Dad and I were going to do something, and I had zero idea what it was. Besides, it was on a Wednesday!! Well, he wound up taking me to dinner...at a fancy fondue restaurant. Now, at first I was nervous; I was only wearing my jean skirt. If I knew where we were going, I would have worn a nicer skirt. However, Dad set me at ease, saying I was dressed fine. (He was in jeans anyway.) From the cheese fondue with bread, fruits, and vegetables, to the meats with sauces and potatoes, to the finale of dark chocolate fondue with cheesecakes, macaroons, pound cake, and strawberries, I enjoyed a lovely dinner....though the stomach ache afterwards wasn't that comfortable! However, I loved the time with Dad more; he and I don't get to do things together as often as I would like. He made me feel special, doing something we have wanted to do for a long time. Coming home and watching Love's Enduring Promise was an added bonus.
However, life isn't all fondue restaurants. Most of our evenings are quiet dinners at home. We are all present, which is a blessing in and of itself. Yet, dinner can have a twist sometimes. Whether it be Silly Supper (where your food and utensils are disguised in the menu) or theme dinners, evenings like this are a treat. Well, of late, they have been frequent. If ya'll didn't know, it is baseball season, and I have a brother who loves baseball, especially the Boston Red Sox. So, as they have been in the ALCS and the World Series, a lot of our dinners have been in front of the tv. Mom has been very accommodating and has allowed this. In fact, she has used this time to shake things up. We have had hot dogs (or chicken hoagies in my case) french fries, peanuts and red rope...your typical baseball food. Clam strips and Boston creme pie have been eaten; I am sure you can guess why. Mom has even dressed up as a "green monster...." I will not post the picture, for her benefit. Needless to say, these times have been fun.
I pray you all are so blessed with a family relationship such as this. I would also encourage you all to shake your meals up. Find a theme, follow a sporting event with its food...just have fun making memories you will have for your lifetime!
I wrote in this post that Dad and I were going to do something, and I had zero idea what it was. Besides, it was on a Wednesday!! Well, he wound up taking me to dinner...at a fancy fondue restaurant. Now, at first I was nervous; I was only wearing my jean skirt. If I knew where we were going, I would have worn a nicer skirt. However, Dad set me at ease, saying I was dressed fine. (He was in jeans anyway.) From the cheese fondue with bread, fruits, and vegetables, to the meats with sauces and potatoes, to the finale of dark chocolate fondue with cheesecakes, macaroons, pound cake, and strawberries, I enjoyed a lovely dinner....though the stomach ache afterwards wasn't that comfortable! However, I loved the time with Dad more; he and I don't get to do things together as often as I would like. He made me feel special, doing something we have wanted to do for a long time. Coming home and watching Love's Enduring Promise was an added bonus.
However, life isn't all fondue restaurants. Most of our evenings are quiet dinners at home. We are all present, which is a blessing in and of itself. Yet, dinner can have a twist sometimes. Whether it be Silly Supper (where your food and utensils are disguised in the menu) or theme dinners, evenings like this are a treat. Well, of late, they have been frequent. If ya'll didn't know, it is baseball season, and I have a brother who loves baseball, especially the Boston Red Sox. So, as they have been in the ALCS and the World Series, a lot of our dinners have been in front of the tv. Mom has been very accommodating and has allowed this. In fact, she has used this time to shake things up. We have had hot dogs (or chicken hoagies in my case) french fries, peanuts and red rope...your typical baseball food. Clam strips and Boston creme pie have been eaten; I am sure you can guess why. Mom has even dressed up as a "green monster...." I will not post the picture, for her benefit. Needless to say, these times have been fun.
I pray you all are so blessed with a family relationship such as this. I would also encourage you all to shake your meals up. Find a theme, follow a sporting event with its food...just have fun making memories you will have for your lifetime!
Monday, October 22, 2007
A Good Read
Ever since I was little, I have loved to read. While I cannot remember it, Mom said my favorite in younger days was Minnie's Slumber Party. Now, I can be perfectly at home with a cup of tea and Pride and Prejudice or Little Women. However, I try to not have fiction be the only genre I read. Yes, there is A LOT of good out there, which gives me an excuse to read many classics next year, as opposed to reading college textbooks.
Well, the book I absolutely enjoyed this time was in the biographical genre. Normally, I read those when the family does, like during our morning school time. I also read biographies that are required, like Stalin and Hitler have been. I am shamed to confess that I don't choose biographies with one exception....or rather two. I did that Ronald Reagan research paper, and now, I have read A Man Called Peter.
Wow! Talk about a phenomenal book! I believe by chapter one I was engrossed in the life of this man. I haven't been clueless about him. In fact, it was his stand on womanhood that drew me to know more. As I finished the book this weekend, I came away with a greater respect for this rather unknown man...and the desire to buy the book for many future readings.
I just wanted to share some of his words, put down in this book by his wife, Catherine. Some made me laugh while convicting me, others made me get excited. Perhaps they will for you too.
Well, the book I absolutely enjoyed this time was in the biographical genre. Normally, I read those when the family does, like during our morning school time. I also read biographies that are required, like Stalin and Hitler have been. I am shamed to confess that I don't choose biographies with one exception....or rather two. I did that Ronald Reagan research paper, and now, I have read A Man Called Peter.
Wow! Talk about a phenomenal book! I believe by chapter one I was engrossed in the life of this man. I haven't been clueless about him. In fact, it was his stand on womanhood that drew me to know more. As I finished the book this weekend, I came away with a greater respect for this rather unknown man...and the desire to buy the book for many future readings.
I just wanted to share some of his words, put down in this book by his wife, Catherine. Some made me laugh while convicting me, others made me get excited. Perhaps they will for you too.
"You know how a gardenia's petals reveal any telltale fingermarks by turning brown. Your lives are like that. Purity is like that...Young people, don't give anything to the world to destroy. Don't be ashamed of high ideals, dreams, and beautiful thoughts."
"I believe that womanhood has been definitely lowered by equality with men. For nineteen centuries woman was revered and respected and on a higher plane than man."
"Help us do our very best this day and be content with today's troubles, so that we shall not borrow the troubles of tomorrow. Save us from the sin of worrying, lest stomach ulcers be the badge of our lack of faith."
"I learned that with God's help, with God standing beside us in the midst of trouble, we can bear anything and come out victorious."
"We human beings can never deserve any of God's good gifts..that when we do the best we can, our best is still not good enough to merit anything from the Lord. We can get nothing and deserve nothing except simply by grace through faith."
Anyway, I wanted to share these with you today. They spoke volumes to me! I have a lot to fill you in on regarding family things....but that is another post for another day! My prayers are with you this day!
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Back To School
Today is my last day of "summer" vacation. Where the time has gone, I have absolutely no idea. It has been great fun...especially having the alarm clock off. However, it is back to waking up with the alarm clock and to the books. I wanted to give ya'll a run down of all that I have looking at me this year. I don't know if being a senior has anything to it, but there just seems to be a lot!
Let's See....my math will continue to be Abeka's Consumer Math. I didn't get it quite finished last year. I will be honest, I have enjoyed not doing calculus:-)
English/Spelling/Grammar/Composition/Literature will also continue to be done with Total Language Plus. That has been my material for several years, and I heartily enjoy it. This year, my books will be The Scarlet Letter, Jane Eyre, and short stories by authors like O Henry and Edgar Allan Poe. I am looking forward to some more than others. (I have found Poe VERY morose and depressing.)
History and Geography will be Beautiful Feet, as it has been for several years. Due to where I ended last year, I will be starting at The Great Depression and going past Vietnam. So, some more book titles will include: To Kill A Mockingbird, The Diary of Anne Frank, The Story of the Von Trapp Singers, and many others. Again, I do not relish some....would you like to be reading biographies on Hitler and such? I am trying to remember that I cannot live in the American Revolution and The Civil War; these former events are ones that have shaped the world today.
I am doing Government this year and also Economics. What curriculum I will be using I don't remember. I am really excited to do Government; it absolutely fascinates me!! Though it depresses me too when I see how far we have strayed from God.
Science and Logic will also remain the same as last year. I am so glad that we have found something that works for science....and that I can understand it! :-) Logic is a great deal of fun. When we first began, I got so exasperated when I couldn't figure out the puzzle right away. Yet as we have worked on them more, we have increased in difficulty, which is a very rewarding feeling.
I cannot forget Bible, which is the most important subject we can focus on. Yes, Garrett and I each do our own quiet time, but we do it corporately as well. This year, we are going to be reading through the New Testament using the ESV Bible.
That is to be the bulk of my subjects this year. Now, if you take in to consideration that I still have piano lessons, going to the Dysktra's, HopeChest and Seasons at Home writing, working on a book with Erin, 3GWoodworks "stuff", sewing, keeping in touch with friends across the U.S., spending time with family, all without losing sight of the Lord getting the glory, I am really busy!!!! However, I am so glad that I can do these things from home, and that God has given me each blessing. Yet for now, I will enjoy the few hours I have left of my break. I will be doing something with Dad tonight, but he is keeping it a surprise. I will have to let you all know what it is, and how school begins, soon!!
Let's See....my math will continue to be Abeka's Consumer Math. I didn't get it quite finished last year. I will be honest, I have enjoyed not doing calculus:-)
English/Spelling/Grammar/Composition/Literature will also continue to be done with Total Language Plus. That has been my material for several years, and I heartily enjoy it. This year, my books will be The Scarlet Letter, Jane Eyre, and short stories by authors like O Henry and Edgar Allan Poe. I am looking forward to some more than others. (I have found Poe VERY morose and depressing.)
History and Geography will be Beautiful Feet, as it has been for several years. Due to where I ended last year, I will be starting at The Great Depression and going past Vietnam. So, some more book titles will include: To Kill A Mockingbird, The Diary of Anne Frank, The Story of the Von Trapp Singers, and many others. Again, I do not relish some....would you like to be reading biographies on Hitler and such? I am trying to remember that I cannot live in the American Revolution and The Civil War; these former events are ones that have shaped the world today.
I am doing Government this year and also Economics. What curriculum I will be using I don't remember. I am really excited to do Government; it absolutely fascinates me!! Though it depresses me too when I see how far we have strayed from God.
Science and Logic will also remain the same as last year. I am so glad that we have found something that works for science....and that I can understand it! :-) Logic is a great deal of fun. When we first began, I got so exasperated when I couldn't figure out the puzzle right away. Yet as we have worked on them more, we have increased in difficulty, which is a very rewarding feeling.
I cannot forget Bible, which is the most important subject we can focus on. Yes, Garrett and I each do our own quiet time, but we do it corporately as well. This year, we are going to be reading through the New Testament using the ESV Bible.
That is to be the bulk of my subjects this year. Now, if you take in to consideration that I still have piano lessons, going to the Dysktra's, HopeChest and Seasons at Home writing, working on a book with Erin, 3GWoodworks "stuff", sewing, keeping in touch with friends across the U.S., spending time with family, all without losing sight of the Lord getting the glory, I am really busy!!!! However, I am so glad that I can do these things from home, and that God has given me each blessing. Yet for now, I will enjoy the few hours I have left of my break. I will be doing something with Dad tonight, but he is keeping it a surprise. I will have to let you all know what it is, and how school begins, soon!!
Thursday, October 11, 2007
In 10 Minutes, My Day Went Bad!
My day was great up until that minute. I had done HopeChest work, I had been able to get up, do my Bible, exercise on the stationary bike we got (for twenty minutes...or four miles:-) and practice my piano. I felt so happy!!
So, I had a free minute, and I opted to make a jelly roll cake for dessert yesterday. I go to put eggs in the bowl, and what should I find but....uh.....words cannot even describe it. (And for your benefit, I will not post a picture, which is worth a thousand words, that Garrett took. He did it for the company rep, who is very interest in our find.) My guess it would be a chicken, a partly formed chicken. I was so grossed out, my stomach began to get tied up in knots, and I had to get away from the bowl for a minute. Thankfully, I had only cracked one other egg, so that was all I lost. Needless, I had Mom crack the rest of the eggs. (I know it, I am terrible!) And to be honest, that event didn't make the cake taste that wonderful. Plus, Garrett made chicken noises every time I brought the fork near my mouth:-)
Alright, so the cake is baking, and Mom is in the kitchen with me. She turns over the CBD catalogue we had received in the mail, and she says, "Oh, so and so's husband dies." I had already looked at the catalogue before, but I didn't investigate the back. (Normally, there isn't much of interest.) Sure enough, she was right. In one of my favorite videos, a character I liked is dead. Many of you like this particular thing too. So, if you care to be depressed and sad, feel free to read here. That said, I will still watch it, and probably love it, which means I will by it. However, why did the writers take the story line this way?!
So, yeah, that was my day last night. Terrible, just terrible! Wouldn't you agree?
So, I had a free minute, and I opted to make a jelly roll cake for dessert yesterday. I go to put eggs in the bowl, and what should I find but....uh.....words cannot even describe it. (And for your benefit, I will not post a picture, which is worth a thousand words, that Garrett took. He did it for the company rep, who is very interest in our find.) My guess it would be a chicken, a partly formed chicken. I was so grossed out, my stomach began to get tied up in knots, and I had to get away from the bowl for a minute. Thankfully, I had only cracked one other egg, so that was all I lost. Needless, I had Mom crack the rest of the eggs. (I know it, I am terrible!) And to be honest, that event didn't make the cake taste that wonderful. Plus, Garrett made chicken noises every time I brought the fork near my mouth:-)
Alright, so the cake is baking, and Mom is in the kitchen with me. She turns over the CBD catalogue we had received in the mail, and she says, "Oh, so and so's husband dies." I had already looked at the catalogue before, but I didn't investigate the back. (Normally, there isn't much of interest.) Sure enough, she was right. In one of my favorite videos, a character I liked is dead. Many of you like this particular thing too. So, if you care to be depressed and sad, feel free to read here. That said, I will still watch it, and probably love it, which means I will by it. However, why did the writers take the story line this way?!
So, yeah, that was my day last night. Terrible, just terrible! Wouldn't you agree?
Saturday, October 06, 2007
Missing Something
It is no secret what my favorite movies are. I rave about Pride and Prejudice, Emma, Sense and Sensibility a lot. I felt compelled to mention Love Comes Softy and North and South here on the blog. Give me the choice between Anne of Green Gables and the latest "romantic comedy" and I will definitely choose the former. Overall, I just love girly movies...but that wasn't what this post was to be about.
There is something about these "timeless classics" that appeals to me. Do you know what it is? I could let you guess, but I am not:-) The way the women dress and act stirs up a feeling inside of me. It is a feeling that, if I could go back to those days, I would. Now, I know there are a lot of bonuses in this century. However, they pale in comparison to what we have lost.
I remember when I watched North and South particularly, an "object lesson" came to mind. Margaret, the main character, was at this fancy dinner party, wearing a slightly revealing dress. Her dress did not communicate, "Look at me and what I have." Rather I believe she was stating, "This dress doesn't state all about me. I have a sensible head on my shoulders, I can lovingly serve my mother and father, and I want you to get to know the real me." And in that scene, the main guy, Mr. Thornton, doesn't look at what is revealed; he looks at her face the entire time.
Now, think of what we have now. In supermarket aisles, we are bombarded with images of Hollywood actresses revealing anything and everything it seems. Always, the women are wearing cleavage showing, leg showing, form fitting clothes. And it communicates, "Oh, don't you wish you had me and what I have." These attitudes absolutely sicken me....and they are everywhere. You get it on tv, with such shows as "Dancing With The Stars." (I don't watch it; I just hear about it.) Movies and commercials now cater to this way of living. Even secular music covers aren't exempt.
What has gone wrong? You can't blame it on the changing fashion world. Even in Jane Austen's day, there were low dresses. (Granted they were not quite as low.) So, what is the deal? I believe it is the attitudes that have been to blame. We are human, after all. That said, I wish we didn't have the battles regarding dress that we do now. No longer do dresses and skirts communicate feminine or "I am a girl;" they communicate being sexy. People feel that they have to degrade themselves by revealing themselves in order to catch a guy. Wrong! Though they are fiction, every single movie I watch has the girl coming out victorious...and the guy isn't some nerd, either.
Those of us who long for the days gone by have a difficult road ahead. I cannot even imagine what will be "in" when I have a child. However, I will train her that God had something higher in store for us....and it is our job to do it. It might be wearing longer skirts and higher necklines as everyone looks at us with shocked faces. It might mean staying away from current romances, for honestly, is that the kind of relationship we want for us or them? Being regarded as feminine wasn't considered wacky up until recently. With God's help, let's try to bring it back. Let us not only look like women, but be willing to go against the trendsetters for the sake of our Christian brothers. Let's have our dress say, " I am a girl. I am a Daughter of the King, one who is highly regarded. There is more to me than my body. Focus on that. Only one guy will get that former part of me."
Intro, Part 1, Part 2, Part 3
There is something about these "timeless classics" that appeals to me. Do you know what it is? I could let you guess, but I am not:-) The way the women dress and act stirs up a feeling inside of me. It is a feeling that, if I could go back to those days, I would. Now, I know there are a lot of bonuses in this century. However, they pale in comparison to what we have lost.
I remember when I watched North and South particularly, an "object lesson" came to mind. Margaret, the main character, was at this fancy dinner party, wearing a slightly revealing dress. Her dress did not communicate, "Look at me and what I have." Rather I believe she was stating, "This dress doesn't state all about me. I have a sensible head on my shoulders, I can lovingly serve my mother and father, and I want you to get to know the real me." And in that scene, the main guy, Mr. Thornton, doesn't look at what is revealed; he looks at her face the entire time.
Now, think of what we have now. In supermarket aisles, we are bombarded with images of Hollywood actresses revealing anything and everything it seems. Always, the women are wearing cleavage showing, leg showing, form fitting clothes. And it communicates, "Oh, don't you wish you had me and what I have." These attitudes absolutely sicken me....and they are everywhere. You get it on tv, with such shows as "Dancing With The Stars." (I don't watch it; I just hear about it.) Movies and commercials now cater to this way of living. Even secular music covers aren't exempt.
What has gone wrong? You can't blame it on the changing fashion world. Even in Jane Austen's day, there were low dresses. (Granted they were not quite as low.) So, what is the deal? I believe it is the attitudes that have been to blame. We are human, after all. That said, I wish we didn't have the battles regarding dress that we do now. No longer do dresses and skirts communicate feminine or "I am a girl;" they communicate being sexy. People feel that they have to degrade themselves by revealing themselves in order to catch a guy. Wrong! Though they are fiction, every single movie I watch has the girl coming out victorious...and the guy isn't some nerd, either.
Those of us who long for the days gone by have a difficult road ahead. I cannot even imagine what will be "in" when I have a child. However, I will train her that God had something higher in store for us....and it is our job to do it. It might be wearing longer skirts and higher necklines as everyone looks at us with shocked faces. It might mean staying away from current romances, for honestly, is that the kind of relationship we want for us or them? Being regarded as feminine wasn't considered wacky up until recently. With God's help, let's try to bring it back. Let us not only look like women, but be willing to go against the trendsetters for the sake of our Christian brothers. Let's have our dress say, " I am a girl. I am a Daughter of the King, one who is highly regarded. There is more to me than my body. Focus on that. Only one guy will get that former part of me."
Intro, Part 1, Part 2, Part 3
Monday, October 01, 2007
One Way to Show Love to Your Sibling...Play Football:-)
Until the Lord decides otherwise, I only have one sibling. Garrett and I are relatively close in age, approximately eighteen months apart. When we were younger, we used to be at each other's throats. I would be lying if I said everything was picture perfect now; it's not. We both are human, and we both have this little annoying thing called "flesh." However, by God's grace and strength, we are getting better.
Lately, I have been trying to find ways to honor, serve, or please him. It isn't always easy to come up with. Whereas my love language is quality time, with gifts and encouraging words as close seconds, Garrett doesn't quite have one that I can lay my finger on. Yet I have discovered three ways.
First, I appeal to his appetite. What teenager doesn't like food? I always try to have yummy treats in the house on a weekly basis. It might mean dessert with dinner or cookies out of the blue. Regardless, I can plan on the stuff being gone a few days later,
Second, I wear pants every once in a while. Predominantly, I wear skirts. I find them more comfortable and feminine. (Yet I also know limitations with them. When biking, hiking, or some other activity is planned, I wear pants/capris for modesty.) That said, Garrett prefers pants. So, about once or twice a week, I wear them...knowing full well that he will say, "Nice dress code today!"
Lately I have discovered the third way to make my brother happy. I play the computer with him. Okay, you might think that isn't a great way to spend time, and granted, you are right. However, Garrett likes it....A LOT! So, today, even though I had HopeChest Magazine work to do, and I had A Man Called Peter on my nightstand, I played anyway. I will confess that at first, I did it a bit half-hearted, yet it got fun!
Lately, I have been trying to find ways to honor, serve, or please him. It isn't always easy to come up with. Whereas my love language is quality time, with gifts and encouraging words as close seconds, Garrett doesn't quite have one that I can lay my finger on. Yet I have discovered three ways.
First, I appeal to his appetite. What teenager doesn't like food? I always try to have yummy treats in the house on a weekly basis. It might mean dessert with dinner or cookies out of the blue. Regardless, I can plan on the stuff being gone a few days later,
Second, I wear pants every once in a while. Predominantly, I wear skirts. I find them more comfortable and feminine. (Yet I also know limitations with them. When biking, hiking, or some other activity is planned, I wear pants/capris for modesty.) That said, Garrett prefers pants. So, about once or twice a week, I wear them...knowing full well that he will say, "Nice dress code today!"
Lately I have discovered the third way to make my brother happy. I play the computer with him. Okay, you might think that isn't a great way to spend time, and granted, you are right. However, Garrett likes it....A LOT! So, today, even though I had HopeChest Magazine work to do, and I had A Man Called Peter on my nightstand, I played anyway. I will confess that at first, I did it a bit half-hearted, yet it got fun!
The game we play is football. I can't play any of the other ones we have!! (I guess when it comes to electronic gadgets, I would rather put a movie in the DVD player.) I do like playing football. I am always one particular team; Garrett switches every now and then. So, take a guess at who I was? And you can laugh at the score all you want...our defense really did exist:-)
So, I would encourage you all to find ways to lift your siblings up. Sure it isn't easy. I mean, I have a desk "littered" with articles that need judged. However, I also realize that that isn't as important as cultivating a relationship that I will have for the rest of my life. God has shown me that my brother can be a lot of fun!
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
"Do Not Awaken Love"
"Promise me, O women of Jerusalem, by the swift gazelles and the deers of the wild, not to awaken love until the time is right."(Song of Songs 2:7 NLT)
A few days ago, I read this verse on Rebekah's Blog, as a part of her daily Bible verse. I have to be honest, this verse got me to thinking...a lot! I pondered how absolutely vital living this verse out is.
Lately, I have been reading a lot about weddings. Natalie at YLCF, Alice's sister, Naomi, Genevieve from Isaacharian Daughters. I think these are the three I can think of off the top of my head. Now, I am absolutely happy for them. They have waited for their turn to say those wonderful words and start families of their own. I find weddings to be one of the best occasions on earth...and it can be HARD not to start imagining our own. You all probably know the feeling: the colors, the bridesmaids, the music, and (dare I admit it) wondering who the groom is.
Now, we all know these thoughts are wrong, particularly the last one. We know that we need to be not only physically pure, but emotionally as well. All of us recognize that for most of us, we have some years of singleness ahead. And that "Unless she has been asked to marry him, why would a sensible woman promise any man her exclusive attention?" (Elisabeth Elliot, yet I read it in I Kissed Dating Good-Bye) is very sound advice.
I wanted to write this post to be honest once again. I do struggle with my mind sometimes. As I find highschool nearing its completion, I wonder if my husband is around the corner. For the record, I am not going to stop creating my list of essential qualities, or reading beautiful courtships stories that bring God glory, or even praying for the man who will come in my life. And yes, I will still watch my favorite movies. However, I want to have accountability with all of you. I want us all to be praying about this area in each other's life. Not awakening love is Biblical, and I want to follow what He says. Sure, it isn't going to be easy, and it might mean taking some measures, but I want my husband not only to have my purity in body, but in my mind as well. Do you desire the same thing as well? Let us give our husbands a wonderful gift on our wedding day...or would it be our courtship? Let us give them a heart that has been touched only by God and our earthly father, and not many men. Let us not awaken love until the time is right.
A few days ago, I read this verse on Rebekah's Blog, as a part of her daily Bible verse. I have to be honest, this verse got me to thinking...a lot! I pondered how absolutely vital living this verse out is.
Lately, I have been reading a lot about weddings. Natalie at YLCF, Alice's sister, Naomi, Genevieve from Isaacharian Daughters. I think these are the three I can think of off the top of my head. Now, I am absolutely happy for them. They have waited for their turn to say those wonderful words and start families of their own. I find weddings to be one of the best occasions on earth...and it can be HARD not to start imagining our own. You all probably know the feeling: the colors, the bridesmaids, the music, and (dare I admit it) wondering who the groom is.
Now, we all know these thoughts are wrong, particularly the last one. We know that we need to be not only physically pure, but emotionally as well. All of us recognize that for most of us, we have some years of singleness ahead. And that "Unless she has been asked to marry him, why would a sensible woman promise any man her exclusive attention?" (Elisabeth Elliot, yet I read it in I Kissed Dating Good-Bye) is very sound advice.
I wanted to write this post to be honest once again. I do struggle with my mind sometimes. As I find highschool nearing its completion, I wonder if my husband is around the corner. For the record, I am not going to stop creating my list of essential qualities, or reading beautiful courtships stories that bring God glory, or even praying for the man who will come in my life. And yes, I will still watch my favorite movies. However, I want to have accountability with all of you. I want us all to be praying about this area in each other's life. Not awakening love is Biblical, and I want to follow what He says. Sure, it isn't going to be easy, and it might mean taking some measures, but I want my husband not only to have my purity in body, but in my mind as well. Do you desire the same thing as well? Let us give our husbands a wonderful gift on our wedding day...or would it be our courtship? Let us give them a heart that has been touched only by God and our earthly father, and not many men. Let us not awaken love until the time is right.
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Do Hard Things...But Fair Warning, It Isn't Always Easy:-)
Around Valentine's Day, I discovered The Rebelution. While I went looking for the modesty survey, I also found the blog in the process. Needless to say, it has been such a blessing to me. It has motivated me...and convicted me. Particularly, they encourage me to "do hard things."
Now, that means something different for each and every individual. For me, it is going against the typical lifestyle that people my age follow. However, of late, "doing hard things" has been just that; it has been hard. On Sunday, we listened to a sermon from R.C. Sproul Jr. He talked about trials in his life (with his daughter and his wife's illnesses) and wondering, "Lord, all this was in the contract when I signed on with you?"
I have felt that way the past two days. I have seen myself as the only homeschooling, modestly dressed, not dating or attending college girl in the entire Pacific Northwest. When thinking of my future graduation, I feel very low. Due to the way I have chosen to live, I won't have many people at my ceremony...and that is sad. Graduations are supposed to be happy affairs, right? At any rate, I have felt like Mr. Sproul. I have had my share of tears. "When is enough enough, Lord? I didn't know that my teenage years where going to be like this:-) I can't do the hard things all alone much more."
However, last night, as I was trying to fall asleep, God reminded me of things that I have written on this blog. I have asked Him to "Bring the Rain" if that is what it takes to be like Him. Magazine articles have talked about "Beauty in Life's Mountains" All of it is worthless if I do not live it out myself. I WANT to "do hard things," regardless of the cost or pain that it will inflict upon me....."Yet you do not have to do it alone, My Daughter. My grace is sufficient for you. My strength is all you need. I know the promises I have for you, and they DO include a future and a hope. Cling to Me when you falter, and I will lift you up on wings like eagles. Even though you are human, I don't want you to stop the hard things. Sure, it is hard, the name suggests that, but I WILL see you through. Continue on with walking the straight and narrow; you are not alone. Do the hard things, Ella. It is okay to be separate: remember that!"
Thank you, Father...thank you!
Now, that means something different for each and every individual. For me, it is going against the typical lifestyle that people my age follow. However, of late, "doing hard things" has been just that; it has been hard. On Sunday, we listened to a sermon from R.C. Sproul Jr. He talked about trials in his life (with his daughter and his wife's illnesses) and wondering, "Lord, all this was in the contract when I signed on with you?"
I have felt that way the past two days. I have seen myself as the only homeschooling, modestly dressed, not dating or attending college girl in the entire Pacific Northwest. When thinking of my future graduation, I feel very low. Due to the way I have chosen to live, I won't have many people at my ceremony...and that is sad. Graduations are supposed to be happy affairs, right? At any rate, I have felt like Mr. Sproul. I have had my share of tears. "When is enough enough, Lord? I didn't know that my teenage years where going to be like this:-) I can't do the hard things all alone much more."
However, last night, as I was trying to fall asleep, God reminded me of things that I have written on this blog. I have asked Him to "Bring the Rain" if that is what it takes to be like Him. Magazine articles have talked about "Beauty in Life's Mountains" All of it is worthless if I do not live it out myself. I WANT to "do hard things," regardless of the cost or pain that it will inflict upon me....."Yet you do not have to do it alone, My Daughter. My grace is sufficient for you. My strength is all you need. I know the promises I have for you, and they DO include a future and a hope. Cling to Me when you falter, and I will lift you up on wings like eagles. Even though you are human, I don't want you to stop the hard things. Sure, it is hard, the name suggests that, but I WILL see you through. Continue on with walking the straight and narrow; you are not alone. Do the hard things, Ella. It is okay to be separate: remember that!"
Thank you, Father...thank you!
Saturday, September 15, 2007
Across the Miles
Once upon a time, there lived two friends. They shared a great relationship, built on solid foundations and the same convictions. This friendship came about through a comment on a mutual blog, and God used that to bring these two into each other's lives. They have never met in person, but many e-mails have passed between the two of them....and countless prayers as well.
However, as one of them was going to Starbucks in Indianapolis on a certain day, the other girl, this author, thought,"Why not I go to Starbucks as well?" Now of course, the one could not jump on an airplane and join the other one. Yet she could synchronize her watch and go to her local coffee shop when her friend was at hers. And that is just what she did.
At 8 o'clock, mountain daylight time, this author walked into her local Starbucks (in the next town, as her city doesn't have one quite yet) and ordered a Pumpkin Spice Creme...no coffee. At 9 o'clock, central daylight time, Erin walked into a Starbucks Indianapolis and ordered.....I have no idea. As this author was not there, she cannot give a first hand account. However, knowing her friend, I will guess that her drink was definitely something with coffee. =)
Yet while these two were miles apart, separated by states, time zones, and the mighty Mississippi, these friends were at Starbucks together. Both were with friends (I was with my wonderful mother) and both were in the other's thoughts...and prayers.
Erin, I loved our time at Starbucks together. I was thinking and praying for you the whole time I drank my yummy creme. Sure, I wish I had been with you in person, so we could meet face to face at long last. However, it wasn't God's time yet. I do pray that it will be soon, as with all my other long distance friends!After her time at the coffee shop, this author came away with something. She wants to do this again, whether it be with Erin at Starbucks, or Alice and a movie., or any other friend. This author loved being with a close, God given friend at the same time, doing the same thing....and she would encourage ya'll to do something across the miles as well!
Monday, September 10, 2007
Home Again..and Ya'll Have A Lot To Catch Up On
Yay! It is so good to quit driving! The family got home last night, and did we take it easy! Now, it is time to do laundry, pick up the mail, and update this blog! I hope you all enjoy the pictures, as well as the “daily snippets” I tried to do. (Actually, instead of working of my “own stuff,” I did this.) Everything will be in a daily post, in chronological order, so you might have to read a ways. Anyway, while it was nice to see new places, it is good to be home!
Growing and Changing
It is Sunday, September 02, 2007. As I sit here in the backseat, I stand amazed at God’s beauty, His majesty, and ultimately His grace. Perhaps listening to 4Him hymns has added this “feeling,” this “knowledge,” to my unworthy mind.
We aren’t in California yet; I think we have another 3 hours to go. Yet while the Redwoods are our destination, I must say that I love Oregon! Living in Boise, where trees, dense trees, are few in far between, I am enjoying pine trees on both sides of the interstate, pine trees on the mountains…you get the picture…I hope! I guess the love of green is still deep within me. After all, I lived in the South for ten years, and that is definitely lush.
I marvel at the variety we have here in the United States. Southern Idaho is desert, yet only a few hours away, are firs, pines, and junipers. The Southeast is filled with cypress, azalea, and dogwood, while the Southwest has cacti. North Carolina and Tennessee are renowned for the Smoky Mountains, but across the state line in Kentucky, you have horse pastures galore. Nebraska and the Great Plains are flat, yet wheat and corn fields are everywhere there. Truly, we live in a very diverse world. (Both landscape and people wise, I guess.)
Honestly, I cannot believe that the Lord has allowed me to see the wonders of his creation. I certainly do not deserve it; my sin is ugly to me, it has to be to Him. Yet God’s mercies are new every morning. He enables me to see another day. He has also allowed me to live in a beautiful, free nation. Unlike the Soviet Union with its citizens, I have the ability to travel and see new places. I can experience the Sequoias (the big trees we are going to see) the ocean, and a new state all at the same time. I am so thankful to God that I can see, touch, smell, and hear these beauties.
Perhaps God is also growing me. I am slowly, painfully, learning that I don’t know what my future holds. I have seen that with my church situations, but what if God does have moving in my future? I don’t really want to think of moving from Boise; even with all its failings, it is my home. However, maybe, just maybe, moving is the next step that I am to take along my life’s road. As I do not hold the script, I don’t know what will happen if I do move. I do know that God’s way is better than Ella’s way. (I just don’t always remember that:-) If I am completely truthful with myself, I would say that I would not mind living in Oregon. Okay, it is way more Liberal than I like, but I do find it beautiful. (Way too expensive though)
I seem to be rambling. I guess God is opening my eyes and molding my heart. He knows that I want to live in absolute submission to His will. Perhaps Oregon’s “greenness” is making the first necessary step to my doing that.
We aren’t in California yet; I think we have another 3 hours to go. Yet while the Redwoods are our destination, I must say that I love Oregon! Living in Boise, where trees, dense trees, are few in far between, I am enjoying pine trees on both sides of the interstate, pine trees on the mountains…you get the picture…I hope! I guess the love of green is still deep within me. After all, I lived in the South for ten years, and that is definitely lush.
I marvel at the variety we have here in the United States. Southern Idaho is desert, yet only a few hours away, are firs, pines, and junipers. The Southeast is filled with cypress, azalea, and dogwood, while the Southwest has cacti. North Carolina and Tennessee are renowned for the Smoky Mountains, but across the state line in Kentucky, you have horse pastures galore. Nebraska and the Great Plains are flat, yet wheat and corn fields are everywhere there. Truly, we live in a very diverse world. (Both landscape and people wise, I guess.)
Honestly, I cannot believe that the Lord has allowed me to see the wonders of his creation. I certainly do not deserve it; my sin is ugly to me, it has to be to Him. Yet God’s mercies are new every morning. He enables me to see another day. He has also allowed me to live in a beautiful, free nation. Unlike the Soviet Union with its citizens, I have the ability to travel and see new places. I can experience the Sequoias (the big trees we are going to see) the ocean, and a new state all at the same time. I am so thankful to God that I can see, touch, smell, and hear these beauties.
Perhaps God is also growing me. I am slowly, painfully, learning that I don’t know what my future holds. I have seen that with my church situations, but what if God does have moving in my future? I don’t really want to think of moving from Boise; even with all its failings, it is my home. However, maybe, just maybe, moving is the next step that I am to take along my life’s road. As I do not hold the script, I don’t know what will happen if I do move. I do know that God’s way is better than Ella’s way. (I just don’t always remember that:-) If I am completely truthful with myself, I would say that I would not mind living in Oregon. Okay, it is way more Liberal than I like, but I do find it beautiful. (Way too expensive though)
I seem to be rambling. I guess God is opening my eyes and molding my heart. He knows that I want to live in absolute submission to His will. Perhaps Oregon’s “greenness” is making the first necessary step to my doing that.
Pictures of Trees That Are Perfect For....
Acting goofy and looking ridiculous...and terrible
Taking potential senior portraits
Being a tree hugger just once :-)
Driving amongst them
Proving to the world how short you are ;-)
Being a tree hugger just once :-)
Driving amongst them
Proving to the world how short you are ;-)Memories and Modesty
We finally arrived in California. I must admit that I am having a difficult time not stereotyping the place. After all, my family views California as the second weirdest state in the U.S., with Massachusetts being the first. (Guess it comes from living in a conservative family) Also, I do wish the town we are in was slightly prettier…and friendlier. On that score, it can not compare with what I saw of Oregon.
However, I am loving the ocean!! I have many fond memories of playing in the sand and surf back in the Florida days. I recall past vacations getting sand dollars on the beach. So, when I saw the Pacific, it was like, “wow!” (And to think that the Explorers didn’t know about this ocean….) I believe the plan is to go eat a late picnic lunch on the waterfront; I am looking forward to that. Hopefully, though, it will either be deserted where we go, or that there will be modest dress. I don’t understand why people want to swim in that water; to my memory of the Oregon Coast back in 2001, it was cold! I know that there is “More to Modesty,” but if I have the choice, I don’t want my brother and Dad to have issues with their eyes. They get that enough at home. A vacation is meant for relaxing. NOTE: the dress that day was bad. Mom and I actually thought women were going around in the underwear We chose not to expose the guys to that. Now, it is two days later, and as most everyone is back to school and work, we don’t have any issues.
God doesn’t have to show me any more beautiful wonders. I have seen so much diversity just today. However, there is supposed to be good whale watching. I would love to see that! Wouldn’t it be just like the Lord to show me more than I deserve? He does that enough, in regards to grace for my sins. I really do not need more; He has been “more than enough” on this trip. But yes, I would enjoy seeing one of God’s creatures that you usually don’t see. However, if I do not get to, I am okay with that. Seeing the ocean once again was a great thrill in itself.
However, I am loving the ocean!! I have many fond memories of playing in the sand and surf back in the Florida days. I recall past vacations getting sand dollars on the beach. So, when I saw the Pacific, it was like, “wow!” (And to think that the Explorers didn’t know about this ocean….) I believe the plan is to go eat a late picnic lunch on the waterfront; I am looking forward to that. Hopefully, though, it will either be deserted where we go, or that there will be modest dress. I don’t understand why people want to swim in that water; to my memory of the Oregon Coast back in 2001, it was cold! I know that there is “More to Modesty,” but if I have the choice, I don’t want my brother and Dad to have issues with their eyes. They get that enough at home. A vacation is meant for relaxing. NOTE: the dress that day was bad. Mom and I actually thought women were going around in the underwear We chose not to expose the guys to that. Now, it is two days later, and as most everyone is back to school and work, we don’t have any issues.
God doesn’t have to show me any more beautiful wonders. I have seen so much diversity just today. However, there is supposed to be good whale watching. I would love to see that! Wouldn’t it be just like the Lord to show me more than I deserve? He does that enough, in regards to grace for my sins. I really do not need more; He has been “more than enough” on this trip. But yes, I would enjoy seeing one of God’s creatures that you usually don’t see. However, if I do not get to, I am okay with that. Seeing the ocean once again was a great thrill in itself.
What We Gardners Do Best
Well, today’s specialty was driving! You know, it is quite funny actually. We all detest long car rides, like the eight hour ones. However, when we get to our destination, we just drive, drive, and drive. It is that way in Yellowstone, and the Redwoods have been no different.
Yet, today there was a twist. At least three of the roads we went done were either no good or unsuccessful. For instance, we went up a road that was supposedly a good place for whale watching. (Still after that elusive mammal…) Anyway, when we got up to the lookout, it was like we were in an airplane. There was fog all across the ocean, and we were above it all, in blue sky. It was quite cool. We joked that it looked like snow, and that an individual was in for a surprise if they thought, “Oh, I am going to walk in the snow!” They would go falling down the cliff to the rocky bottom below.
For the record, the little bit I was in Oregon was so much better than California. We are discovering higher gas prices, more rude drivers and helpers, and green democrats. That doesn’t fit me and mine, does it? I just told Mom today that I do not belong here in California. It is too decadent of a place for me. I know I have no control over where my future husband will want to live, but I really hope California isn’t it…unless there is a really conservative spot that I do not ever hear about!
Yet, today there was a twist. At least three of the roads we went done were either no good or unsuccessful. For instance, we went up a road that was supposedly a good place for whale watching. (Still after that elusive mammal…) Anyway, when we got up to the lookout, it was like we were in an airplane. There was fog all across the ocean, and we were above it all, in blue sky. It was quite cool. We joked that it looked like snow, and that an individual was in for a surprise if they thought, “Oh, I am going to walk in the snow!” They would go falling down the cliff to the rocky bottom below.
The other thing we’ve been driving for today is a seafood restaurant. It is a tradition that every time we are on the Coast, we get seafood. (Besides, the food we packed doesn’t seem to be unfrozen as of yet) However, we have gone up and down the town, and even back into Oregon, and either restaurants are closed or exorbitantly priced. In fact, we still haven’t found anything yet. I think we might be waiting until tomorrow. NOTE: we did not do seafood that night; taco meat was thawed.
We did go walking on the beach today, and no issues with swimsuits. We went in the morning when it was slightly foggy and cold. We also went searching in tidepools. We found a few sea anemones, sea cucumbers, starfish, and some crazy looking seaweed. However, our past finds in tidepools on other vacations have fared better. Perhaps, as we are here for a few more days, things will change. After all, every low tide brings new wonders from the deep of God’s creation.
For the record, the little bit I was in Oregon was so much better than California. We are discovering higher gas prices, more rude drivers and helpers, and green democrats. That doesn’t fit me and mine, does it? I just told Mom today that I do not belong here in California. It is too decadent of a place for me. I know I have no control over where my future husband will want to live, but I really hope California isn’t it…unless there is a really conservative spot that I do not ever hear about!
Do Not Worry....Easier Said Than Done
“Do not be anxious for anything…” I must admit that I do not always live that verse out. All throughout my life, I have struggled with worry and fear. It used to be really bad. In fact, I recall that when I was younger, I once saw a snippet of a tv show and two girls were in an automobile accident; they were misidentified. For years, I used to think that would happen to either of my parents. Yet as I have grown up, and grown in my faith, bit by bit my fears have gone away. (You all know that certain things in Yellowstone help me with that.)
However, that said, I don’t feel comfortable in isolation. I have heard too many murder and kidnapping stories. My own state had an incident last year. At any rate, our “original” campsite here in the Redwoods was the epitome of isolation…or it was that way to Mom and me. Our spot was at least three miles of the beaten path, in the thick growth, and there wasn’t going to be a ranger or a camp host for the majority of our stay. I did not like that one bit. While I do not want to be in a crowd to the point of claustrophobia, I do like people around me. Mom feels the same way. So, we moved the camper to a more “frequented” campground. I feel much more at ease, and I honestly think the rest of the family feels the same way.
The second campground
Perhaps it appears as if my “worry and fear” got the best of me. Perhaps it did. I will confess that last night it took prayer to get me asleep…and recalling to mid songs that I used to sing at age 5. However, the Lord knows how much I want to continue to gain victory in this area of my life, “the hard things,” so to speak. However, I have seen continual small victories in this way; for fear doesn’t really rule my life anymore. Yes, I do get stressed about situations, and I want to take it into my hands, which you all know :-) Yet, I do give Him all the glory, honor, and praise that He is slowly helping me, refining me, in this area of my life.
I want to hear from ya’ll though. Do any of you struggle with worry or fear? In what form does it take place? And what do you do about it?
However, that said, I don’t feel comfortable in isolation. I have heard too many murder and kidnapping stories. My own state had an incident last year. At any rate, our “original” campsite here in the Redwoods was the epitome of isolation…or it was that way to Mom and me. Our spot was at least three miles of the beaten path, in the thick growth, and there wasn’t going to be a ranger or a camp host for the majority of our stay. I did not like that one bit. While I do not want to be in a crowd to the point of claustrophobia, I do like people around me. Mom feels the same way. So, we moved the camper to a more “frequented” campground. I feel much more at ease, and I honestly think the rest of the family feels the same way.
The second campground
Perhaps it appears as if my “worry and fear” got the best of me. Perhaps it did. I will confess that last night it took prayer to get me asleep…and recalling to mid songs that I used to sing at age 5. However, the Lord knows how much I want to continue to gain victory in this area of my life, “the hard things,” so to speak. However, I have seen continual small victories in this way; for fear doesn’t really rule my life anymore. Yes, I do get stressed about situations, and I want to take it into my hands, which you all know :-) Yet, I do give Him all the glory, honor, and praise that He is slowly helping me, refining me, in this area of my life.
I want to hear from ya’ll though. Do any of you struggle with worry or fear? In what form does it take place? And what do you do about it?
Leaving California
My family has a reputation for moving, that is sure. We’ve moved across country several times, moved in the Treasure Valley several times, and our camper around more than we planned. We did not bargain on our original campground in the Redwoods being the way it was, which was why we moved first. However, we also didn’t think we would have gone through the whole park in three days time. (We couldn’t imagine that being the case in Yellowstone!) So, we left the Redwoods a day early, and we are on our way to Crater Lake.
We all have said that while the Redwoods were pretty (and tall,) we prefer Yellowstone. In fact, if I had to choose between the tress we’ve seen or the ocean, I liked the ocean best. Like I stated previously, I have fond memories of the beach.
Why do people feel compelled to grafetti things?
I learned two things while in California. The first was that when you go to a seafood restaurant, and there is an entree that is famous with the locals, go for it. On Tuesday, we finally did get our traditional seafood dinner at Beachcomers. I debated about getting the favorite, parmesan halibut, but I opted not to for fear I would hate it. I got fried prawns instead…which I can easily get at Red Lobster back home. (Though I will confess that seafood is a rare treat in any case.) Garrett got the halibut, and I tried it. Boy, was it yummy! Next time, I will just go with my gut instinct and give something new a try. Normally I do and Garrett does not.
The other thing I learned in California was that if I never come back to that state, I would be okay. Sure it would be cool to go to the Golden Gate Bridge, go down Lombard Street, and eat seafood and sourdough at Fisherman’s wharf, but it isn’t an absolute necessity. I do not belong in California. I must be a country bumpkin or something!
We all have said that while the Redwoods were pretty (and tall,) we prefer Yellowstone. In fact, if I had to choose between the tress we’ve seen or the ocean, I liked the ocean best. Like I stated previously, I have fond memories of the beach.
Why do people feel compelled to grafetti things?I learned two things while in California. The first was that when you go to a seafood restaurant, and there is an entree that is famous with the locals, go for it. On Tuesday, we finally did get our traditional seafood dinner at Beachcomers. I debated about getting the favorite, parmesan halibut, but I opted not to for fear I would hate it. I got fried prawns instead…which I can easily get at Red Lobster back home. (Though I will confess that seafood is a rare treat in any case.) Garrett got the halibut, and I tried it. Boy, was it yummy! Next time, I will just go with my gut instinct and give something new a try. Normally I do and Garrett does not.
The other thing I learned in California was that if I never come back to that state, I would be okay. Sure it would be cool to go to the Golden Gate Bridge, go down Lombard Street, and eat seafood and sourdough at Fisherman’s wharf, but it isn’t an absolute necessity. I do not belong in California. I must be a country bumpkin or something!
Sometimes, Even Vacation Brings About Lessons to Learn
Submission is something that I want to get better in. Lest you think that I have it all together, I want you to be made perfectly aware that I am not. I know that the way I submit now will be the way I submit to me husband…and I do not always act correctly.
I have mentioned that my family has started a woodworking business. And while I like the money that comes from my share of the profits (as I do the books) I don’t like going from woodshop to woodshop. The guys look at exotic woods for what seems to be hours, as Mom and I stay in the car. If I have it right, we have made stops at five wood places, with at least two more planned ones to go.
I will confess that I don’t nearly “do hard things” as often as I want. I am a sinner, who doesn’t always want to be inconvenienced. In fact, I will admit that I can be selfish about it. After all, I don’t go in the wood stores and I don’t care to “shop” as often as we do. It is terrible, but I realize that I want the benefits of the business without all the necessary measures of it.
While Dad never gets angry at me when I make a fuss, I know that he is grieved by my actions. (Mom is too, even though it might bug her some too. She is just more understanding than I am.) However, I grieve myself. I talk on here about submission, but I don’t always practice it myself. For that, I am sorry. I pray that by God’s strength, I will get better at this. I want my husband to get a totally submissive wife! I also need to remember that the “trials,” even ones as mundane as going from wood shop to wood shop, develop character…and I can always use a better one.
Again, I want to know your thoughts. Do you struggle with submission to your dads (or perhaps, if someone married is reading this, your spouse?) How do you better yourself in this area? Or is it just easy for you? If so, how did you get that way?
I have mentioned that my family has started a woodworking business. And while I like the money that comes from my share of the profits (as I do the books) I don’t like going from woodshop to woodshop. The guys look at exotic woods for what seems to be hours, as Mom and I stay in the car. If I have it right, we have made stops at five wood places, with at least two more planned ones to go.
I will confess that I don’t nearly “do hard things” as often as I want. I am a sinner, who doesn’t always want to be inconvenienced. In fact, I will admit that I can be selfish about it. After all, I don’t go in the wood stores and I don’t care to “shop” as often as we do. It is terrible, but I realize that I want the benefits of the business without all the necessary measures of it.
While Dad never gets angry at me when I make a fuss, I know that he is grieved by my actions. (Mom is too, even though it might bug her some too. She is just more understanding than I am.) However, I grieve myself. I talk on here about submission, but I don’t always practice it myself. For that, I am sorry. I pray that by God’s strength, I will get better at this. I want my husband to get a totally submissive wife! I also need to remember that the “trials,” even ones as mundane as going from wood shop to wood shop, develop character…and I can always use a better one.
Again, I want to know your thoughts. Do you struggle with submission to your dads (or perhaps, if someone married is reading this, your spouse?) How do you better yourself in this area? Or is it just easy for you? If so, how did you get that way?
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