Around Christmas, there are many, many smells permeating the house. They come from the candles in the bathrooms and the scent pot in the kitchen. Though on days when the oven is on, cinnamon, nutmeg, peppermint, chocolate bring a whole new flavor......and set your taste buds watering. But there is one scent we do not have at Christmas. That is the scent of a freshly cut Christmas evergreen.
In my entire life, we have only had a real tree two times. But when Mom figured out that all of her headaches were from the fragrance of pine, the real tree idea was scrapped. So, while we don't have the annoyance of needles everywhere on the floor, we don't have that distinct spiciness...unless we have an evergreen scented candle burning.
You know what? I don't mind. What we do have in the form of our artificial Christmas tree means so much more to me.
From June of 2003 to July of 2005, my dad was unemployed. It is a long story--far too long to go into detail now. I will only say it was a time when we saw the Lord do amazing things for us. Sure, you see Him act all the time, but when you are in dire straits, it takes on a whole new meaning. One such way we saw the Lord was by His giving us our Christmas tree.
Now, lest I paint a terrible picture, I want you to know that we weren't destitute--we had money (though granted, we were living off of our previous home's equity.) Needless to say, when money is tight, the last thing you do is spend it on something frivolous like a tree that will die in a few weeks. By this time, the artificial tree that I had grown up with had "bitten the dust" and Mom's allergy had been discovered. So, we were at peace about not having a tree to place some presents under. After all, that doesn't matter anyway. But God had other ideas.
Some friends at the time sent us a check in the mail. That had been happening a lot. People were doing things anonymously for us--Garrett and I had even been on the receiving end with gift cards to Walmart. However, this particular check wasn't anonymous--and there was a purpose for it. They wanted us to buy a Christmas tree.
Now, they didn't know about Mom, but we decided to do exactly what they said. We bought a new artificial tree with their thoughtfulness towards us. Every year when we set it up, we are reminded of the trials we had during Dad's unemployment--and the provision and compassion of a Loving Father.
But it doesn't stop there. In my bedroom every Christmas, I am reminded of some unknown person's thoughtfulness. With that Walmart gift card, I bought a small artificial tree of my own for $2. I cannot thank the person who showed love towards me those years ago--I am not entirely positive who did it. But I can thank my Lord, who even cares about the little things, even Christmas trees.
The individuals God used to fufill his purposes have left our lives now. But what they did has not. And every Christmas, I get the opportunity to remember what my family went through. I wouldn't want to experience it again--but oh! The memories!
What has been one instance where you are reminded again and again of God's provision and caring nature?
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Tuesday, December 09, 2008
Her Name Is.......
It was great fun to see y'alls guesses about my puppy's name. There was a common thread in that "Grace" was suggested a lot. You know that I love Grace Kelly--I think she is the classiest actress of all time. And her name would have fit my family. But......
That isn't it.
I love Audrey Hepburn too. She is perfect for roles in Roman Holiday and Sabrina (Which by the way are two movies my brother will watch that are "girly movies.")
But she isn't it either.
Let's see....there was Katherine Hepburn. Loretta Young. Marilyn (which I am assuming it was for Marilyn Monroe) All of those are well known.......
But no.
My puppy was named after Dad's favorite actress. Jade got it right.
That isn't it.
I love Audrey Hepburn too. She is perfect for roles in Roman Holiday and Sabrina (Which by the way are two movies my brother will watch that are "girly movies.")
But she isn't it either.
Let's see....there was Katherine Hepburn. Loretta Young. Marilyn (which I am assuming it was for Marilyn Monroe) All of those are well known.......
But no.
My puppy was named after Dad's favorite actress. Jade got it right.
I could have said she was in musicals. That might have helped..... =) Yes, our dog is named Ginger. She still fits in our family. (Nikki, our other dog, does as well, for she is a combination of mine and my brother's middles names.)
Isn't this fun?!
Sunday, December 07, 2008
Play the Name Game.....Please! =)
Introducing the newest member of our family!!!!!
I am not going to tell you what her name is. I want you to guess.....and I am only going to give you one hint.
I am not going to tell you what her name is. I want you to guess.....and I am only going to give you one hint.Think a classic female actress. Yep. That's it.
Friday, December 05, 2008
Sort of Christmas Movies.....Week 3
With the feeling of Christmas in the air, I thought December whould be filled with some Christma movies =) However, since I am going back and re-watching a lot this year, I will share those with you when I have "double-checked" them. Yet, this week, I would share four movies that are very sweet and take place around Christmastime. I wonder if you have seen any of them:
Penny Serenade--starring Cary Grant and Irene Dunne--This is one of Mom's absoulte favorites. She cries in it everytime. =) Though the first time we watched it, we knew we were missing a scene, so we had to get the DVD another time. It is the story of a married couple, who are unable to have children.....so they seek to adopt. It is funny at times and tender throughout. There is not a single issue in it. (And a little piece of trivia--Cary Grant was nominated for the Best Actor award for this film.)
I'll Be Seeing You--starring Joseph Cotten, Ginger Rogers, and Shirley Temple--Another very sweet and tender movie. Though it isn't overly so, as Dad likes it a lot. Ginger Rogers plays a woman on Christmas vacation.....from women's prison.....and Joseph Cotten is a shell-shocked veteran. They both meet and fall in love, but their pasts threaten. Shirley Temple is a teenage in the film, so don't expect the one you are used to. Again, there is not a single issue in the movie.
Christmas in Connecticut--starring Barbara Stanwyck and Dennis Morgan--The first time I watched this movie was in June, so while it takes place around Christmas, you don't have to only watch it then. Since Mom and I were the only ones who watched it, we want Garrett and Dad to see it this year. It is funny. Barbara Stanwyck is a columnist who is not what her readers think her to be. She is not a housewife who bakes delicious dishes. But when her publisher announces he is coming for Christmas, and he is bringing a soldier.....well, she better start. The only thing in this movie is that Barbara has to appear that she is married, but everything is innocent and FUNNY!
Holiday Inn--starring Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire--It always used to drive me crazy when I read the song "White Christmas" was in Holiday Inn. I thought it premiered in White Christmas first, but not so. This movie spans throughout the whole year, so there are a whole bunch of songs written by Irving Berlin. It's about two guys who fall in love with the same girl....
Hope you enjoy some of these! If you have seen something, I would enjoy hearing about what you thought!
Penny Serenade--starring Cary Grant and Irene Dunne--This is one of Mom's absoulte favorites. She cries in it everytime. =) Though the first time we watched it, we knew we were missing a scene, so we had to get the DVD another time. It is the story of a married couple, who are unable to have children.....so they seek to adopt. It is funny at times and tender throughout. There is not a single issue in it. (And a little piece of trivia--Cary Grant was nominated for the Best Actor award for this film.)
I'll Be Seeing You--starring Joseph Cotten, Ginger Rogers, and Shirley Temple--Another very sweet and tender movie. Though it isn't overly so, as Dad likes it a lot. Ginger Rogers plays a woman on Christmas vacation.....from women's prison.....and Joseph Cotten is a shell-shocked veteran. They both meet and fall in love, but their pasts threaten. Shirley Temple is a teenage in the film, so don't expect the one you are used to. Again, there is not a single issue in the movie.
Christmas in Connecticut--starring Barbara Stanwyck and Dennis Morgan--The first time I watched this movie was in June, so while it takes place around Christmas, you don't have to only watch it then. Since Mom and I were the only ones who watched it, we want Garrett and Dad to see it this year. It is funny. Barbara Stanwyck is a columnist who is not what her readers think her to be. She is not a housewife who bakes delicious dishes. But when her publisher announces he is coming for Christmas, and he is bringing a soldier.....well, she better start. The only thing in this movie is that Barbara has to appear that she is married, but everything is innocent and FUNNY!
Holiday Inn--starring Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire--It always used to drive me crazy when I read the song "White Christmas" was in Holiday Inn. I thought it premiered in White Christmas first, but not so. This movie spans throughout the whole year, so there are a whole bunch of songs written by Irving Berlin. It's about two guys who fall in love with the same girl....
Hope you enjoy some of these! If you have seen something, I would enjoy hearing about what you thought!
Wednesday, December 03, 2008
October....and November's....Reading List
Am I bad or what? I was doing so many election posts in November, I never did get to share what I read in October. Now, I have two months to do.....but amazingly, I don't have much to show for it. You will see why! =)
Paris Encore, by Brock and Bodie Thoene--It seems like ages since I read Book 8 in the Zion Covenant Series. I have shared with Mom that one day, if I could own the series, I would. Since it has been a month, I can't quite remember if there were any "little issues" you might have. I know I didn't have any problems, though I think it was in this one (or maybe it was Book 7) where two younger characters have a strong attraction to one another....and they have to fight temptations. I just loved following characters that I have grown to know and love.
Dunkirk Crescendo, by Brock and Bodie Thoene--The final book in the Zion Covenant Series. It could have gone on in my opinion. But all things must come to an end sometimes, I guess. This one is the most violent of the Series, as it takes place during the Dunkirk invasion....from many different angles. The happenings aren't graphic, but it is mostly battles. If I had to say, I think book 2 and book 6 were my favorites....but they all were really good.
Women of Pemberley, by Rebecca Ann Collins--I shared in my last reading list about this series of books. You know, the "sequel" to Pride and Prejudice? I just love reading someone else's adaptation of what would happen to all of those beloved characters. If you can your hands on the first book in the series, I urge you to do so. For Jane Austen lovers, they are must reads. Sure, they don't replace the work Miss Austen did herself, but.....You will be delighted!
My Dad, John McCain, but Meghan McCain--Whether or not you agree with McCain's policies, or his choosing of Sarah Palin, you have to admit he has done some amazing things for this country. Namely, McCain spent five and a half years in a North Vietnamese prison camp while serving in our Armed Forces. This little, and easy, picture book (written by a daughter who loves and respects her father) makes you extremely thankful for his sacrifice. And yes, it made me wonder why the American people chose to NOT have a patriot leading their nation....but God knows the reason why.
Our Mutual Friend, by Charles Dickens--It took all of November, but I FINALLY finished this novel by a classic author. I have read one Dicken's novel before, yet it is an accomplishment to read 820 pages of one =) The story line is very complex--in the book there are about four storylines going on. If you can, I would say get a hold of the movie instead. The storylines are much more easily completed, everything is less wordy, and you still get the message Dickens wanted (Thankfully, the movie cuts out one storyline that is very hard to understand) There is a quick little something in the film, but it you wanted to know where the issue is, I could easily tell you.
So, there is what I have been up to in the reading world (though it doesn't include things I am working on for studies) What have you been reading?
Paris Encore, by Brock and Bodie Thoene--It seems like ages since I read Book 8 in the Zion Covenant Series. I have shared with Mom that one day, if I could own the series, I would. Since it has been a month, I can't quite remember if there were any "little issues" you might have. I know I didn't have any problems, though I think it was in this one (or maybe it was Book 7) where two younger characters have a strong attraction to one another....and they have to fight temptations. I just loved following characters that I have grown to know and love.
Dunkirk Crescendo, by Brock and Bodie Thoene--The final book in the Zion Covenant Series. It could have gone on in my opinion. But all things must come to an end sometimes, I guess. This one is the most violent of the Series, as it takes place during the Dunkirk invasion....from many different angles. The happenings aren't graphic, but it is mostly battles. If I had to say, I think book 2 and book 6 were my favorites....but they all were really good.
Women of Pemberley, by Rebecca Ann Collins--I shared in my last reading list about this series of books. You know, the "sequel" to Pride and Prejudice? I just love reading someone else's adaptation of what would happen to all of those beloved characters. If you can your hands on the first book in the series, I urge you to do so. For Jane Austen lovers, they are must reads. Sure, they don't replace the work Miss Austen did herself, but.....You will be delighted!
My Dad, John McCain, but Meghan McCain--Whether or not you agree with McCain's policies, or his choosing of Sarah Palin, you have to admit he has done some amazing things for this country. Namely, McCain spent five and a half years in a North Vietnamese prison camp while serving in our Armed Forces. This little, and easy, picture book (written by a daughter who loves and respects her father) makes you extremely thankful for his sacrifice. And yes, it made me wonder why the American people chose to NOT have a patriot leading their nation....but God knows the reason why.
Our Mutual Friend, by Charles Dickens--It took all of November, but I FINALLY finished this novel by a classic author. I have read one Dicken's novel before, yet it is an accomplishment to read 820 pages of one =) The story line is very complex--in the book there are about four storylines going on. If you can, I would say get a hold of the movie instead. The storylines are much more easily completed, everything is less wordy, and you still get the message Dickens wanted (Thankfully, the movie cuts out one storyline that is very hard to understand) There is a quick little something in the film, but it you wanted to know where the issue is, I could easily tell you.
So, there is what I have been up to in the reading world (though it doesn't include things I am working on for studies) What have you been reading?
Monday, December 01, 2008
Getting to Know Me--Christmas Edition
December 1st....where has the year gone? It is so hard to believe that Christmas is almost upon us, that 2008 is thirty days from closing. Mom is getting ready to do this "tag of sorts" on her blog, and I thought I would do it on mine as well. You can get to know the "me" that comes every December. I do enjoy the Christmas season!
1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? I prefer wrapping paper with lots of curly ribbon! Of course, I tone it down for Garrett's packages.
2. Real tree or Artificial? I do love the smell of real evergreens, but Mom is allergic to the pine. She gets these terrible headaches.....so we use an artificial. There is a story behind our tree that Mom has said I should share with you all......I probably will. =)
3. When do you put up the tree? It depends, but it is NEVER the day after Thanksgiving. Garrett doesn't want Christmas to overshadow his birthday and I can't blame him. I think the plan is to decorate this Friday.
4. When do you take the tree down? That I do not know. Usually a few days after Christmas, but the winter decorations stay up until March.
5. Do you like egg nog? Yes! Definitely! Though for some reason, I always forget it is in the fridge when we have it.
6. Favorite gift received as a child? Aren't I still a child?! =) Sort of. But I think my favorite gift has been my American Girl doll, Samantha, that I received at age 10. Though I have seen video of getting my doll house around age 5. I was screaming so loud with that gift, my voice went hoarse.
7. Do you have a nativity scene? Yes, we have a Precious Moments one that we've used ever since I can remember. When I was younger, I used to keep the baby Jesus in my room until Christmas.....on that morning, He was gone.....and where He should be. However, Mom would like a more "serious" looking one now.
8. Hardest person to buy for? it used to be Garrett, but I have gotten him down pat. Dad has gotten harder =)
9. Easiest person to buy for? Hands-down, Mom. I could bascially buy my personality for her.
10. Mail or email Christmas cards? Mail cards, though I send e-cards as well. Mom does a Christmas letter every year to long distance people. I love to re-read what she has written each year.
11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? I have zero idea. I like all of things people give me. After all, they don't have to think of me.
12. Favorite Christmas movie(s) What a hard question!! I love White Christmas--there's the musical lover in me. I also have to watch The Christmas Box every year. And It's a Wonderful Life is Christmas night tradition.
13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? I work on the handmade things all throughout the year...or I start compiling ideas.But I will really start in the next week: buying things, ordering things, sending things =)
14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Yes, I do it some. I know I have done it with bath products. I have so many....why not pass them on so someone could use them more readily.
15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Orange Bread--our traditional breakfast Christmas morning. And peppermint cheesecake!! Christmas wouldn't be complete without cheesecake!! I will post that recipe.
16. Clear or colored Christmas lights? Colored on the tree--clear if we decorate outside--and we don't that much
17. Favorite Christmas song(s)? I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day; Mary, Did you Know; Christmas is All in the Heart; Angels We Have Heard on High; Joy to the World; and White Christmas (if that counts =)
18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? Nana and PopPop used to come to our house when we lived in Florida. Now, we stay home here--and we like having it just the family for this holiday. We have shaken things up, as we eat a brunch, slowing and thankfully open gifts, and then we eat snacks (and cheesecake) as we watch It's a Wonderful Life.
19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer? Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner and Blitzen and Rudolph. (This was a given, since I never deleted Mom's answers...but I could have named them myself)
20. Angel on the tree top or a star? An porcelain angel Nana made. But know that we have low ceilings....and it can't fit on our big tree....I put the angel on my own little artificial treee.
21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Christmas morning.
22. Most annoying thing about this time of year? The commercialization and materialism. I won't deny that is my majoyr pet peeve with Christmas. It isn't about Christ and giving any more; it's all gimme, gimme, gimme. And I detest the selfish shoppers who are rude as all get out.
23. Favorite ornament theme or color? I love all of our ornaments. You can easily forget what ones you have, since you only see them once a year.
24. Favorite dinner for Christmas? I already said what we do for our meal. We used to have a tradition of going out to dinner on Christmas Eve at a nice restaurant. But that meant expensive....and that isn't in the budget anymore.
25. What do you want for Christmas this year? That's a self-centered question! I would love for our adoption papers to have speedy results, we're going to get another beagle puppy! We decided this year that we wouldn't buy that much this year and got a family gift instead--a new TV on sale. And I am buying myself the MP3 player. So, I guess I want my family to just feel blessed this Christmas--and we do.
26. Do you bake lots of goodies during the holidays? Absolutely!! It is a must. I love the peanut butter cup cookies that for some reason only get made at Christmastime. Then there are sugar cookies, Dad and Garrett make the fruit cake, and all sorts of other stuff.
27. Do you decorate different rooms of your home? Yes. Downstairs we have the Christmas tree. The main level has garland, the nativity scene, and some other things. My room gets a little Christmas tree with special ornaments (at least of me) I also put up fake pointsettas.
28. What decorations do you put outside? WE used to, but Dad doesn't exactly want to battle the winds (which we have plenty of) and put them up. So, we use our cross all in white lights. That's the true meaning of Christmas after all.
29. How do you spend Christmas Eve? I already told you--we used to do the nice restaurant thing and look at Christmas lights. But no one really puts them up any more. And expensive dinners aren't in the budget. (Cheesecake Factory for graduation was a treat!) So, I don't quite know what we will do this year.
30. Is Christmas your favorite holiday? Yes. I love planning the gifts I want to give my family and dear friends. But when it gets too commerical.....I detest it =)
1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? I prefer wrapping paper with lots of curly ribbon! Of course, I tone it down for Garrett's packages.
2. Real tree or Artificial? I do love the smell of real evergreens, but Mom is allergic to the pine. She gets these terrible headaches.....so we use an artificial. There is a story behind our tree that Mom has said I should share with you all......I probably will. =)
3. When do you put up the tree? It depends, but it is NEVER the day after Thanksgiving. Garrett doesn't want Christmas to overshadow his birthday and I can't blame him. I think the plan is to decorate this Friday.
4. When do you take the tree down? That I do not know. Usually a few days after Christmas, but the winter decorations stay up until March.
5. Do you like egg nog? Yes! Definitely! Though for some reason, I always forget it is in the fridge when we have it.
6. Favorite gift received as a child? Aren't I still a child?! =) Sort of. But I think my favorite gift has been my American Girl doll, Samantha, that I received at age 10. Though I have seen video of getting my doll house around age 5. I was screaming so loud with that gift, my voice went hoarse.
7. Do you have a nativity scene? Yes, we have a Precious Moments one that we've used ever since I can remember. When I was younger, I used to keep the baby Jesus in my room until Christmas.....on that morning, He was gone.....and where He should be. However, Mom would like a more "serious" looking one now.
8. Hardest person to buy for? it used to be Garrett, but I have gotten him down pat. Dad has gotten harder =)
9. Easiest person to buy for? Hands-down, Mom. I could bascially buy my personality for her.
10. Mail or email Christmas cards? Mail cards, though I send e-cards as well. Mom does a Christmas letter every year to long distance people. I love to re-read what she has written each year.
11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? I have zero idea. I like all of things people give me. After all, they don't have to think of me.
12. Favorite Christmas movie(s) What a hard question!! I love White Christmas--there's the musical lover in me. I also have to watch The Christmas Box every year. And It's a Wonderful Life is Christmas night tradition.
13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? I work on the handmade things all throughout the year...or I start compiling ideas.But I will really start in the next week: buying things, ordering things, sending things =)
14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Yes, I do it some. I know I have done it with bath products. I have so many....why not pass them on so someone could use them more readily.
15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Orange Bread--our traditional breakfast Christmas morning. And peppermint cheesecake!! Christmas wouldn't be complete without cheesecake!! I will post that recipe.
16. Clear or colored Christmas lights? Colored on the tree--clear if we decorate outside--and we don't that much
17. Favorite Christmas song(s)? I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day; Mary, Did you Know; Christmas is All in the Heart; Angels We Have Heard on High; Joy to the World; and White Christmas (if that counts =)
18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? Nana and PopPop used to come to our house when we lived in Florida. Now, we stay home here--and we like having it just the family for this holiday. We have shaken things up, as we eat a brunch, slowing and thankfully open gifts, and then we eat snacks (and cheesecake) as we watch It's a Wonderful Life.
19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer? Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner and Blitzen and Rudolph. (This was a given, since I never deleted Mom's answers...but I could have named them myself)
20. Angel on the tree top or a star? An porcelain angel Nana made. But know that we have low ceilings....and it can't fit on our big tree....I put the angel on my own little artificial treee.
21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Christmas morning.
22. Most annoying thing about this time of year? The commercialization and materialism. I won't deny that is my majoyr pet peeve with Christmas. It isn't about Christ and giving any more; it's all gimme, gimme, gimme. And I detest the selfish shoppers who are rude as all get out.
23. Favorite ornament theme or color? I love all of our ornaments. You can easily forget what ones you have, since you only see them once a year.
24. Favorite dinner for Christmas? I already said what we do for our meal. We used to have a tradition of going out to dinner on Christmas Eve at a nice restaurant. But that meant expensive....and that isn't in the budget anymore.
25. What do you want for Christmas this year? That's a self-centered question! I would love for our adoption papers to have speedy results, we're going to get another beagle puppy! We decided this year that we wouldn't buy that much this year and got a family gift instead--a new TV on sale. And I am buying myself the MP3 player. So, I guess I want my family to just feel blessed this Christmas--and we do.
26. Do you bake lots of goodies during the holidays? Absolutely!! It is a must. I love the peanut butter cup cookies that for some reason only get made at Christmastime. Then there are sugar cookies, Dad and Garrett make the fruit cake, and all sorts of other stuff.
27. Do you decorate different rooms of your home? Yes. Downstairs we have the Christmas tree. The main level has garland, the nativity scene, and some other things. My room gets a little Christmas tree with special ornaments (at least of me) I also put up fake pointsettas.
28. What decorations do you put outside? WE used to, but Dad doesn't exactly want to battle the winds (which we have plenty of) and put them up. So, we use our cross all in white lights. That's the true meaning of Christmas after all.
29. How do you spend Christmas Eve? I already told you--we used to do the nice restaurant thing and look at Christmas lights. But no one really puts them up any more. And expensive dinners aren't in the budget. (Cheesecake Factory for graduation was a treat!) So, I don't quite know what we will do this year.
30. Is Christmas your favorite holiday? Yes. I love planning the gifts I want to give my family and dear friends. But when it gets too commerical.....I detest it =)
Okay, so I tag all of you who are in to these things! I would really enjoy hearing!
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Movies--Week 2
I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Today, I am thankful for my brother. It is Garrett's 17th birthday!! Since I have done so much already about him, I thought I would turn my movie post into something that "honors" him. (But don't worry, musicals will be back in January--Christmas movies are on the docket next)
His favorite sport is baseball. He is barely getting by right now; he is counting down the days until spring training. So, I am posting some classic movies about baseball. Maybe you all will like them, maybe you won't. All I know is that Garrett does =) If you have a sports loving brother, you can get him to watch these with you:
Pride of the Yankees--starring Gary Cooper and Teresa Wright--Being a MAJOR Red Sox fan, Garrett does not like the Yankees. But he does like Lou Gerhig. Gary Cooper was nominated (but did now win) the Best Actor award for his portrayal of this ball player. He has an amazing story (Gerhig does) and as you know, he has an "illness" that bears his name now. I do get teary-eyed in the scene where he gives the famous speech.
The Sratton Story--starring James Stewart and June Allyson--Okay, Lou Gerhig is a common name in baseball. Monty Stratton is not. But he also has a tremendous story. Stewart plays Stratton, who is a a very good baseball player, but then...he has to cope with losing a leg to amputation. It is very inspiring. And in both of these movies, you see what a role a wife can play when she supports her husband.
The Winning Team--starring Doris Day and Ronald Reagan--I love this movie for the cast. Doris Day is my favorite and Reagan is my favorite president. Reagan plays Grover Cleveland Alexander (who was also a real athlete, but I didn't know of him either) His story revolves around a mysterious injury he has to cope with, the fallout that happens, and the wife who sticks with him.
Angels in the Outfield--starring Paul Douglas and Janet Leigh--Up until recently, we had only watched the 90's remake. But I like this old version a whole lot better. You might know the story: a baseball team stinks, "angels" help them out, and families are created. The emotional element is very sweet in this movie. And it is funny too!!
Okay, so I didn't say much about these flicks. But that doesn't mean I don't think they are bad. I like them. If you have seen any of them, let me know! And nothing is wrong in any of them!
Happy Birthday, Garrett!
His favorite sport is baseball. He is barely getting by right now; he is counting down the days until spring training. So, I am posting some classic movies about baseball. Maybe you all will like them, maybe you won't. All I know is that Garrett does =) If you have a sports loving brother, you can get him to watch these with you:
Pride of the Yankees--starring Gary Cooper and Teresa Wright--Being a MAJOR Red Sox fan, Garrett does not like the Yankees. But he does like Lou Gerhig. Gary Cooper was nominated (but did now win) the Best Actor award for his portrayal of this ball player. He has an amazing story (Gerhig does) and as you know, he has an "illness" that bears his name now. I do get teary-eyed in the scene where he gives the famous speech.
The Sratton Story--starring James Stewart and June Allyson--Okay, Lou Gerhig is a common name in baseball. Monty Stratton is not. But he also has a tremendous story. Stewart plays Stratton, who is a a very good baseball player, but then...he has to cope with losing a leg to amputation. It is very inspiring. And in both of these movies, you see what a role a wife can play when she supports her husband.
The Winning Team--starring Doris Day and Ronald Reagan--I love this movie for the cast. Doris Day is my favorite and Reagan is my favorite president. Reagan plays Grover Cleveland Alexander (who was also a real athlete, but I didn't know of him either) His story revolves around a mysterious injury he has to cope with, the fallout that happens, and the wife who sticks with him.
Angels in the Outfield--starring Paul Douglas and Janet Leigh--Up until recently, we had only watched the 90's remake. But I like this old version a whole lot better. You might know the story: a baseball team stinks, "angels" help them out, and families are created. The emotional element is very sweet in this movie. And it is funny too!!
Okay, so I didn't say much about these flicks. But that doesn't mean I don't think they are bad. I like them. If you have seen any of them, let me know! And nothing is wrong in any of them!
Happy Birthday, Garrett!
Thursday, November 27, 2008
There's So Much To Be Thankful For
Courtesy of Julia, I have been tagged. However, I felt this one was worth doing, as I was going to post about what I am most thankful for anyway. There is truly so much that I have been blessed with this year, it overwhelms me. I thought I would share them with you.
1.) I am thankful that I am the Lord's child; that His grace and mercy extends to each new day. He continues to show me Himself when I am in my lowest moments...and He gives me a shoulder to cry on in the midst of them. I think every year I discover this truth more and more. But with all that has gone on this year.....I believe it more so.
2.) I am thankful for my loving family and all that they mean to me. Each is so very different and yet, we are all so very close. Dad is my protector and guider; Mom is my confidante, Garrett is the one who keeps me light =) I am even blessed to have my dog, Nikki.
3.) I am thankful for my dear friends. Those who read this blog and those who know me on a more personal level. You all have been there for me in so many ways at so many times. The Lord has blessed me richly with some like-minded fellowship after so many years of being alone. (Granted, it is all on the Internet, but....)
4.) I am thankful that I live in the United States of America. Okay, so we have problems. We've strayed from God. But we are still the most free nation on the face of the earth. I cannot even begin to grasp what it would be like to have that freedom removed....I don't want to know.
5.) I am thankful for the daily needs I can easily take for granted--food, clothes, shelter. With the economic fallout that is talked about in the news, I recognize that many are not as fortunate. So my family doesn't have big bucks; things are tight. But we are still better off than some.
6.) I am thankful that the Lord has given me talents to use for His glory. Because of Him, I am able to play the piano and write. I can express who I am in these two things (writing more so, but piano by how I play) If I didn't have that....
7.) I am thankful that I have a desire to remain under my father's authority until marriage. I am blessed that he is there protecting me and I can bounce things off of him--always getting his input before I do anything. I am learning that I can have ideas, desires, and goals, but I can have them in an honoring way.
8.) I am thankful that I am keeping myself pure--even to my first kiss--until my wedding day. Oh, there are definitely days when I doubt it will ever come to pass. But then, there are the days when I know there is just a beautiful love story out there waiting for me.
9.) I am thankful that I was able to be homeschooled most years of my education. Don't think I am isolated and delusional....because I am not. But it was parents who exposed and taught me about things. I am thankful that my parents found freedom to pick and choose what we best for my course of study so I could best enjoy it. (That said, I am SO thankful that I have only 200 pages of Dickens left =)
10.) I am thankful that I have the opportunity to post on this blog and that I can show you a little glimpse into my daily life and thoughts. It is a joy for me to do!
I hope you all have a very Happy Thanksgiving! God bless.
1.) I am thankful that I am the Lord's child; that His grace and mercy extends to each new day. He continues to show me Himself when I am in my lowest moments...and He gives me a shoulder to cry on in the midst of them. I think every year I discover this truth more and more. But with all that has gone on this year.....I believe it more so.
2.) I am thankful for my loving family and all that they mean to me. Each is so very different and yet, we are all so very close. Dad is my protector and guider; Mom is my confidante, Garrett is the one who keeps me light =) I am even blessed to have my dog, Nikki.
3.) I am thankful for my dear friends. Those who read this blog and those who know me on a more personal level. You all have been there for me in so many ways at so many times. The Lord has blessed me richly with some like-minded fellowship after so many years of being alone. (Granted, it is all on the Internet, but....)
4.) I am thankful that I live in the United States of America. Okay, so we have problems. We've strayed from God. But we are still the most free nation on the face of the earth. I cannot even begin to grasp what it would be like to have that freedom removed....I don't want to know.
5.) I am thankful for the daily needs I can easily take for granted--food, clothes, shelter. With the economic fallout that is talked about in the news, I recognize that many are not as fortunate. So my family doesn't have big bucks; things are tight. But we are still better off than some.
6.) I am thankful that the Lord has given me talents to use for His glory. Because of Him, I am able to play the piano and write. I can express who I am in these two things (writing more so, but piano by how I play) If I didn't have that....
7.) I am thankful that I have a desire to remain under my father's authority until marriage. I am blessed that he is there protecting me and I can bounce things off of him--always getting his input before I do anything. I am learning that I can have ideas, desires, and goals, but I can have them in an honoring way.
8.) I am thankful that I am keeping myself pure--even to my first kiss--until my wedding day. Oh, there are definitely days when I doubt it will ever come to pass. But then, there are the days when I know there is just a beautiful love story out there waiting for me.
9.) I am thankful that I was able to be homeschooled most years of my education. Don't think I am isolated and delusional....because I am not. But it was parents who exposed and taught me about things. I am thankful that my parents found freedom to pick and choose what we best for my course of study so I could best enjoy it. (That said, I am SO thankful that I have only 200 pages of Dickens left =)
10.) I am thankful that I have the opportunity to post on this blog and that I can show you a little glimpse into my daily life and thoughts. It is a joy for me to do!
I hope you all have a very Happy Thanksgiving! God bless.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Thanksgiving Plans and Traditions
I'll be posting on Thanksgiving about all that I have to be thankful for.....which is a lot. But today, my mind is thinking of all that will go into the day. Garrett and I are convincing Mom that it is better to go grocery shooping today, since the stores will be CRAZY tomorrow afternoon! My mouth is watering from all of the foods we'll be eating. I thought I would take a few minutes and give y'all a glimpse into my home on Thanksgiving Day.
Up until we moved here in 2000, we spent every Thanksgiving with Nana and PopPop (my dad's parents.) I have many fond memories of setting the table; that was MY job. Bot now, it is too far to go to Florida--and Nana has a little difficulty flying. We miss them more than ever this year, but we are still maintaining some of the traditions we do every year.
We eat the same breakfast every year: Dutch Boy pancake. Maybe I should post the recipe some time; it's really good. We eat as we discuss what we have been most thankful for. Then, we go downstairs and watch the Macy's parade.
I don't think there has been one year that I have missed it. I do turn off some of the dances--the Radio City Rockettes in particular =) Then, we watch the dog show....and root for the beagle every time.
Now, we don't really watch football on Thanksgiving. Perhaps we used to, but I can't quite remember. Dad is usually thumbing through the paper and Mom and I are busy cooking. Besides, this year, the teams who play stink =)
Food....who can't love it?! If given the choice, I would eat the sides and THEN the turkey. I am the mashed potatoes queen!! And I just love green bean casserole. Mom makes a corn pudding that is SO good and she makes the best pumpkin pie. I could get hungry just thinking about it. For me, Thanksgiving wouldn't be Thanksgiving without the trimmings. This year, we're going to have a family we know over to share our meal with us.
Black Friday. I have only participated once--in 2001 at the mall around 10:00. I will never do that again!! But believe it or not, Garrett and Dad go every year. Not necessarily to the mall. They go to Best Buy, Office Max, Wal-Mart, places like that. They get up at a ridiculous hour and battle the crowds. THEY get the pleasure of getting my MP3 player =)
So, what about you all? What are Thanksgiving traditions you have? What are your plans? What is your favorite thing to eat? And do any of you go shopping on Black Friday. I would enjoy hearing!
Up until we moved here in 2000, we spent every Thanksgiving with Nana and PopPop (my dad's parents.) I have many fond memories of setting the table; that was MY job. Bot now, it is too far to go to Florida--and Nana has a little difficulty flying. We miss them more than ever this year, but we are still maintaining some of the traditions we do every year.
We eat the same breakfast every year: Dutch Boy pancake. Maybe I should post the recipe some time; it's really good. We eat as we discuss what we have been most thankful for. Then, we go downstairs and watch the Macy's parade.
I don't think there has been one year that I have missed it. I do turn off some of the dances--the Radio City Rockettes in particular =) Then, we watch the dog show....and root for the beagle every time.
Now, we don't really watch football on Thanksgiving. Perhaps we used to, but I can't quite remember. Dad is usually thumbing through the paper and Mom and I are busy cooking. Besides, this year, the teams who play stink =)
Food....who can't love it?! If given the choice, I would eat the sides and THEN the turkey. I am the mashed potatoes queen!! And I just love green bean casserole. Mom makes a corn pudding that is SO good and she makes the best pumpkin pie. I could get hungry just thinking about it. For me, Thanksgiving wouldn't be Thanksgiving without the trimmings. This year, we're going to have a family we know over to share our meal with us.
Black Friday. I have only participated once--in 2001 at the mall around 10:00. I will never do that again!! But believe it or not, Garrett and Dad go every year. Not necessarily to the mall. They go to Best Buy, Office Max, Wal-Mart, places like that. They get up at a ridiculous hour and battle the crowds. THEY get the pleasure of getting my MP3 player =)
So, what about you all? What are Thanksgiving traditions you have? What are your plans? What is your favorite thing to eat? And do any of you go shopping on Black Friday. I would enjoy hearing!
Monday, November 24, 2008
The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly That Happened This Weekend
Thought you all might like to know how my weekend was. It certainly held a variety of emotions. A lot of weekends are like that =)
The Good: Our pastor did a very good sermon on the Sixth Commandment yesterday. He actually took a stance on something, which means a big deal to my family. It's been a problem we've been having: no one takes a stance on anything. But yesterday he did....can you think on what?
GAS PRICES ARE BELOW THE $2 MARK EVERYWHERE IN THE VALLEY!!!!! FINALLY!!!!
We watched quite a number of good suspense movies. I think some have gone into the favorites category, at least for Mom and myself.
The Bad: None of you really follow college football like I do, so I won't go into details. I have just come to the conclusion that the people who pick the bowl games are snobby, elitest, and they don't like Cinderella stories.....That doesn't make sense. Boise State was a Cinderella once, their record is certainly deserving....but no. Sure we have one game to go......but we'll get hosed.
So you can imagine the tirades I have launched into =) Just ask the family. It's only a game, but I do enjoy it.
The Ugly: The pea soup fog we had all day yesterday. It looked like something you would have in the middle of January. I sure wish I had gotten a picture, so you could have seen how bad it was. Today, we've got frost. I probably should expect that in late November, but I don't really want it.
How was y'alls weekend? What was the good? Was there a bad? And how about an ugly? I would enjoy hearing about it!
The Good: Our pastor did a very good sermon on the Sixth Commandment yesterday. He actually took a stance on something, which means a big deal to my family. It's been a problem we've been having: no one takes a stance on anything. But yesterday he did....can you think on what?
GAS PRICES ARE BELOW THE $2 MARK EVERYWHERE IN THE VALLEY!!!!! FINALLY!!!!
We watched quite a number of good suspense movies. I think some have gone into the favorites category, at least for Mom and myself.
The Bad: None of you really follow college football like I do, so I won't go into details. I have just come to the conclusion that the people who pick the bowl games are snobby, elitest, and they don't like Cinderella stories.....That doesn't make sense. Boise State was a Cinderella once, their record is certainly deserving....but no. Sure we have one game to go......but we'll get hosed.
So you can imagine the tirades I have launched into =) Just ask the family. It's only a game, but I do enjoy it.
The Ugly: The pea soup fog we had all day yesterday. It looked like something you would have in the middle of January. I sure wish I had gotten a picture, so you could have seen how bad it was. Today, we've got frost. I probably should expect that in late November, but I don't really want it.
How was y'alls weekend? What was the good? Was there a bad? And how about an ugly? I would enjoy hearing about it!
Friday, November 21, 2008
Musicals--Week 1
And now the moment you all have been waiting for...........
Okay, so that was a bit overdramatic =)
After reading your comments to do musicals first in my "Movie Review Fridays," I came to the conclusion that that was the majority opinion. So, consequently, that's what I will be doing. However, there will be some "exceptions" in the coming weeks, but you will find out what they are later.
Everything I recommend will be available from one of three places: your local library (or if you have a great interlibrary loan system, they'll get it from another state); Netflix (which our family uses); and Turner Classic Movies. We don't have the channel, but our PopPop does, so we ask him to record things.
Today, I decided to do some of my favorites. I bet most of you have seen at least one of them....but I have no ability to know what you have or have not seen. I'll be doing five movies a week, so here we go:
Seven Brides for Seven Brothers--Mom and I didn't understand why you all wanted me to mention this one, as you all have seen it! Anyway, this classic, starring Howard Keel and Jane Powell is my all-time favorite. The song and dance numbers can very easily get in my head and stay there for hours! That can be a good thing and an annoying thing all rolled into one sometimes. It's a sweet story about Millie marrying a back woodsman, only to discover that he lives with his six brothers. They all fall in love with Millie (even more so than her husband at first) and she helps them all find girls. If there is anyone out there who has NOT seen this movie.....RENT IT ON DVD! It's a very well-known movie.
Shall We Dance--starring Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers--Originally, I got this movie for the music in it. I was studying George Gershwin in my piano lessons and with that thought in my mind, I browsed the library. I picked this flick off of the shelf, but I wasn't exposed to the dancing duo of Rogers and Astaire then. Boy, did I love the movie! Garrett has seen parts of it and would watch it again. It is SO funny! Astaire and Rogers are rumored to be married and expecting a child. Of course, it isn't true. But they do a quick marriage and plan a divorce so all rumors could be put to rest. What do you think happens.......The music and lyrics (penned by George's brother, Ira) are simply great.
**There is nothing bad in this one at all. The only thing could be an issue for you is that someone plants a dummy in Astaire's bed to make it look like Rogers and he are married. Just make sure you do NOT get another movie by this same title, starring Richard Gere and Jennifer Lopez. I haven't seen it; it's probably not the same thing. But don't make that mistake!**
Singin in the Rain--starring Gene Kelly, Debbie Reynolds, and Donald O'Conner--another one of those classics that I bet you have seen. If not, I will be very surprised. This is a movie that the whole family can watch together...even your brother. Garrett says it is his favorite musical. It really is funny. The movie is about the transition from silent films to "talkies." Kelly's leading lady has a terrible voice, so Reynolds's voice is used. Kelly and Reynolds fall in love with buddy Donald O'Conner keeping everything light. The songs are fantastic. I often will go out and sing "Singing in the Rain" when it drizzles here....and that isn't very often. O'Conner is definitely the funniest in the whole movie.
**I do want to make you aware of two things. In one scene, Debbie Reynolds comes out of a cake in a short skirt. It's part of a song and really is humorous. The other thing....there is one dance number I always fast forward. It seems like in every Gene Kelly picture, there is a bizarre dance sequence. It is that one that I skip. I can tell you where it is--he is telling his producer about a more "Broadway like" number he wants to add to the movie. The dance is sensual and just plain weird. You won't miss anything by skipping.**
It Happened in Brooklyn--starring Frank Sinatra, Jimmy Durante, Peter Lawford, and Kathryn Grayson--This is just one of many Sinatra musical's I plan on enlightening you with. We watched this one as a whole family one evening. Sinatra is a soldier who returns to Brooklyn. He hopes to get settled back in and have a family. He thinks he has met the girl of his dreams....until his buddy Lawford comes to town and falls for the same girl. Ol' Blue Eyes sings, so I melt =) Grayson is a very high soprano, so that might grate on your ears for a minute. I think you will like it.
Good News--starring Peter Lawford and June Allyson--This is fast becoming one of my top favorites. I think I heard about it from Netflix and it sounded interesting. I grew to love it, though I only watched it one time. It is the story of a college girl (Allyson) who has a crush on Lawford, a star on the football team. The only thing is that Lawford likes the new girl who won't pay attention to him. So, he asks Allyson to teach him French, in the hopes of impressing the girl. That scene is just hilarious. I was semi-rolling on the floor. It really is a sweet, cute movie. I don't think there is anything you would find objectionable, but I haven't seen it in a few months. (Should add it back into our queue again =)
High Society--starring Bing Crosby, Grace Kelly, and Frank Sinatra--This is the musical remake to the 1940's The Philadelphia Story. It is very hard to say which I think is better, but this one has Frank....and the classiest actress of all time in Grace Kelly....so those are two points well in this one's favor. Kelly is about to be remarried, but her first husband (Crosby) is still in love with her. Sinatra is a reporter who comes to cover the wedding....and falls in love with Kelly. You figure out who she winds up with. I guarantee Sinatra's voice will make you melt.....maybe =)
**The only thing I can think of this that Sinatra and Kelly get VERY drunk and go for a swim. Whether it is in clothes or not (and I don't think it is) you don't really know, as you don't see it. But there is nothing you need to skip. Plus, it is the cause of everything coming to a head.**
So, have you seen any? I hope you enjoy these.....and this whole new feature!
Okay, so that was a bit overdramatic =)
After reading your comments to do musicals first in my "Movie Review Fridays," I came to the conclusion that that was the majority opinion. So, consequently, that's what I will be doing. However, there will be some "exceptions" in the coming weeks, but you will find out what they are later.
Everything I recommend will be available from one of three places: your local library (or if you have a great interlibrary loan system, they'll get it from another state); Netflix (which our family uses); and Turner Classic Movies. We don't have the channel, but our PopPop does, so we ask him to record things.
Today, I decided to do some of my favorites. I bet most of you have seen at least one of them....but I have no ability to know what you have or have not seen. I'll be doing five movies a week, so here we go:
Seven Brides for Seven Brothers--Mom and I didn't understand why you all wanted me to mention this one, as you all have seen it! Anyway, this classic, starring Howard Keel and Jane Powell is my all-time favorite. The song and dance numbers can very easily get in my head and stay there for hours! That can be a good thing and an annoying thing all rolled into one sometimes. It's a sweet story about Millie marrying a back woodsman, only to discover that he lives with his six brothers. They all fall in love with Millie (even more so than her husband at first) and she helps them all find girls. If there is anyone out there who has NOT seen this movie.....RENT IT ON DVD! It's a very well-known movie.
Shall We Dance--starring Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers--Originally, I got this movie for the music in it. I was studying George Gershwin in my piano lessons and with that thought in my mind, I browsed the library. I picked this flick off of the shelf, but I wasn't exposed to the dancing duo of Rogers and Astaire then. Boy, did I love the movie! Garrett has seen parts of it and would watch it again. It is SO funny! Astaire and Rogers are rumored to be married and expecting a child. Of course, it isn't true. But they do a quick marriage and plan a divorce so all rumors could be put to rest. What do you think happens.......The music and lyrics (penned by George's brother, Ira) are simply great.
**There is nothing bad in this one at all. The only thing could be an issue for you is that someone plants a dummy in Astaire's bed to make it look like Rogers and he are married. Just make sure you do NOT get another movie by this same title, starring Richard Gere and Jennifer Lopez. I haven't seen it; it's probably not the same thing. But don't make that mistake!**
Singin in the Rain--starring Gene Kelly, Debbie Reynolds, and Donald O'Conner--another one of those classics that I bet you have seen. If not, I will be very surprised. This is a movie that the whole family can watch together...even your brother. Garrett says it is his favorite musical. It really is funny. The movie is about the transition from silent films to "talkies." Kelly's leading lady has a terrible voice, so Reynolds's voice is used. Kelly and Reynolds fall in love with buddy Donald O'Conner keeping everything light. The songs are fantastic. I often will go out and sing "Singing in the Rain" when it drizzles here....and that isn't very often. O'Conner is definitely the funniest in the whole movie.
**I do want to make you aware of two things. In one scene, Debbie Reynolds comes out of a cake in a short skirt. It's part of a song and really is humorous. The other thing....there is one dance number I always fast forward. It seems like in every Gene Kelly picture, there is a bizarre dance sequence. It is that one that I skip. I can tell you where it is--he is telling his producer about a more "Broadway like" number he wants to add to the movie. The dance is sensual and just plain weird. You won't miss anything by skipping.**
It Happened in Brooklyn--starring Frank Sinatra, Jimmy Durante, Peter Lawford, and Kathryn Grayson--This is just one of many Sinatra musical's I plan on enlightening you with. We watched this one as a whole family one evening. Sinatra is a soldier who returns to Brooklyn. He hopes to get settled back in and have a family. He thinks he has met the girl of his dreams....until his buddy Lawford comes to town and falls for the same girl. Ol' Blue Eyes sings, so I melt =) Grayson is a very high soprano, so that might grate on your ears for a minute. I think you will like it.
Good News--starring Peter Lawford and June Allyson--This is fast becoming one of my top favorites. I think I heard about it from Netflix and it sounded interesting. I grew to love it, though I only watched it one time. It is the story of a college girl (Allyson) who has a crush on Lawford, a star on the football team. The only thing is that Lawford likes the new girl who won't pay attention to him. So, he asks Allyson to teach him French, in the hopes of impressing the girl. That scene is just hilarious. I was semi-rolling on the floor. It really is a sweet, cute movie. I don't think there is anything you would find objectionable, but I haven't seen it in a few months. (Should add it back into our queue again =)
High Society--starring Bing Crosby, Grace Kelly, and Frank Sinatra--This is the musical remake to the 1940's The Philadelphia Story. It is very hard to say which I think is better, but this one has Frank....and the classiest actress of all time in Grace Kelly....so those are two points well in this one's favor. Kelly is about to be remarried, but her first husband (Crosby) is still in love with her. Sinatra is a reporter who comes to cover the wedding....and falls in love with Kelly. You figure out who she winds up with. I guarantee Sinatra's voice will make you melt.....maybe =)
**The only thing I can think of this that Sinatra and Kelly get VERY drunk and go for a swim. Whether it is in clothes or not (and I don't think it is) you don't really know, as you don't see it. But there is nothing you need to skip. Plus, it is the cause of everything coming to a head.**
So, have you seen any? I hope you enjoy these.....and this whole new feature!
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Antonio Vivaldi's "Four Seasons...." and My Backyard
In order to achieve the full effect, click on this link. Hopefully, y'all have Windows Media Player on your computers, so you can minimize the song and listen to it as you read what I have to say.
Currently in my musical appreciation study, I am on the life of Antonio Vivaldi. Not much is known about the early Baroque composers, yet Vivaldi's legacy has been preserved in his well known concerto "The Four Seasons." It's familiar to all of us--albeit certain movements more so than others.
Right now, the weather here is like Vivaldi's Largo Movement from "Autumn." For those of you not familiar with music terminology, largo means "slow." Even slower than andante....which is usually the slowest I play.
As I listened to the recording upstairs, I thought of my backyard. I could just picture leaves falling down, the world slowly down, everything getting situated for a transition period. Photosynthesis is no longer being produced; winter is about to settle on the land.
Life for me has been one of transition this year. I am thankful it doesn't happen nearly as often as it does in Creation. Some days, I can feel just like the "Largo Movement:" slowly getting ready for the changes ahead. Graduation was only one of them. They are all good, though.
Yet, Vivaldi's compostion is more than just "Autumn." "Spring"is probably the most well known of the entire piece. My back yard is more than brown leaves and barren trees. My life is more than transition and waiting. But they all have their place. There is something to be loved and found in each of them.
Hopefully, you enjoy listening to the movement. Why don't you listen to the whole concerto when you get a chance?! =)
Saturday, November 15, 2008
A New Weekly Feature
My mom does something on her blog that I am going to implement. Every Friday or Saturday, she posts reviews of some old classic movies. In today's society, it is so hard to find decent things that the whole family can watch.....or so I thought. If you go back fifty, sixty, even seventy years it's a piece of cake! Our family has grown to love many new genres and many of the iconic screen legends.
However, I want input from all of you. Is there something specific you would like me to start with? Like a particular genre that you want me to highlight: Musicals, War, Gangster, Dramas, Comedies, Suspense and Mysteries....... Or is that one actor or actress that you want me to focus on: Humphrey Bogart, James Stewart, Cary Grant, Frank Sinatra, Ginger Rogers, Doris Day, and so many more I could go one forever. =)
I know many of you love musicals, but is that what you want first? Give me suggestions and I will get a schedule all ramped up. I'll start Friday! Looking forward to hearing from y'all!
However, I want input from all of you. Is there something specific you would like me to start with? Like a particular genre that you want me to highlight: Musicals, War, Gangster, Dramas, Comedies, Suspense and Mysteries....... Or is that one actor or actress that you want me to focus on: Humphrey Bogart, James Stewart, Cary Grant, Frank Sinatra, Ginger Rogers, Doris Day, and so many more I could go one forever. =)
I know many of you love musicals, but is that what you want first? Give me suggestions and I will get a schedule all ramped up. I'll start Friday! Looking forward to hearing from y'all!
Thursday, November 13, 2008
What's Your Favorite......and Your Least Favorite?
Books have been on my mind today. It has been about a week since I started my after high school studies up, so I have been reading my books on herbal medicine and music appreciation. While herbal medicine contains a lot of words I have to look up for their pronunciations, music is simple and something that I am making more in depth. Both are doing their part in increasing my knowledge.
But then, there's Dickens. I won't deny that there are times when I think about putting "Our Mutual Friend" down. After all, I am only on page 210 out of 819. And it's due in like three weeks after having been renewed the maximum amount. (But lest you think I am a slow reader.....I had other things come up.) Right now, I am planning in doing the hard thing and sticking with it. The movie adaptation is just as good though for anyone who wants to be exposed to this novel....and it's less wordy.
All that to say is I've been wondering about y'all. What has been a book that you could NOT put down? Of late, the books that did that for me were "The Zion Covenant Series" by Brock and Bodie Thoene and the "The Pemberley Chronicle Series" by Rebecca Ann Collins. They aren't necessarily in my favorites category, but they brought hours of enjoyment. Sure, they weren't meaty, but sometimes, you need some "fluff."
Yet, what has been the worst book you have ever read? Either one you did put down or one that you wanted to SO much. Dickens is not quite there yet. Bu I have read two of the worst books ever. The Red Badge of Courage, by Stephen Crane I had to read for school....and hated it the whole time. It's depressing and morose and why is it considered a must read is beyond me. I also disliked All Quiet on the Western Front immensely. It also was depressing and morose, but as it was something I had to read........
What about you? I would like to know about the books that have had positive...and negative...reactions in your life!
But then, there's Dickens. I won't deny that there are times when I think about putting "Our Mutual Friend" down. After all, I am only on page 210 out of 819. And it's due in like three weeks after having been renewed the maximum amount. (But lest you think I am a slow reader.....I had other things come up.) Right now, I am planning in doing the hard thing and sticking with it. The movie adaptation is just as good though for anyone who wants to be exposed to this novel....and it's less wordy.
All that to say is I've been wondering about y'all. What has been a book that you could NOT put down? Of late, the books that did that for me were "The Zion Covenant Series" by Brock and Bodie Thoene and the "The Pemberley Chronicle Series" by Rebecca Ann Collins. They aren't necessarily in my favorites category, but they brought hours of enjoyment. Sure, they weren't meaty, but sometimes, you need some "fluff."
Yet, what has been the worst book you have ever read? Either one you did put down or one that you wanted to SO much. Dickens is not quite there yet. Bu I have read two of the worst books ever. The Red Badge of Courage, by Stephen Crane I had to read for school....and hated it the whole time. It's depressing and morose and why is it considered a must read is beyond me. I also disliked All Quiet on the Western Front immensely. It also was depressing and morose, but as it was something I had to read........
What about you? I would like to know about the books that have had positive...and negative...reactions in your life!
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
The Real Blogger Award
Courtesy of my loving mother, I have received the Marie Antoinette Real Blogger Award. Now, why in the world it is called that, I have ZERO idea.....nor does she. This award means a great deal more than you realize. Mom knows how I long to be real in what I say and write here. I never want to hide what is going through my head, mind, and heart. Anyway, she passed it on to me, and now, I am passing it on to three of you.**Disclaimer**This does not mean I don't think all of your blogs are lovely and "real." Certain lovely thoughts come to my mind when I ready certain lovely blogs. All of you are different; that's a good thing! =) Anyway, I also thought I should limit. But hey, I could always make an award up.
First, I give this award to Kaysie. I have had the pleasure of getting to know her through her blog and occasional e-mails. It doesn't take much to see her heart in the posts that she writes. She doesn't hide her struggles and doubts; she makes it a point for you to know that she sheds tears. But then, she is just as real in how she magnifies the Lord. I love reading Kaysie's stuff. Oftentimes, we have the same thoughts and emotions.
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Second, I award Jessica. To know why I award Jessica, you have to have a glimpse into my past. (Creepy, isn't it?! =)
For a time, the Lord had us a part of a Church that was very legalistic in nature. You were constantly made to feel you were sinning if you listened to things other than hymns, or if you watched certain movies, or if you did things that weren't necessarily feminine. When we were led to leave, there was pain (because leaving is never easy) But with that pain also came a new sense of freedom. God showed where I had given in to subtle legalism by hiding who I really was. So, now....I feel able to listen to Josh Groban. I can watch movies (provided they line up with my standards) I can enjoy rooting for sports teams. I cannot begin to tell you how liberating it is!!
So, how does this apply to Jessica? Well, she and her family are very strong Christians....and yet they aren't sticks in the mud. They like to dance. They listen to music other than hymns and watch movies (Jessica loves musicals like I do.) She doesn't hide who she is. That means a lot to me, especially after all I have been through.
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Lastly, I give Jasmine this award. Everything I said about Jessica applies to Jasmine and her family. I love it. But Jasmine also writes about the hard things and what her beliefs and convictions are. All throughout the election, she didn't back down from her stance/belief in Chuck Baldwin. And boy, she could care less if you agree with her or not!
This three fellow sisters in Christ have meant a lot to me. Y'all have. But for those of you who I didn't award (except in my heart) I would encourage you to check these blogs out. Meet and be encouraged by some "real" people.
Monday, November 10, 2008
15 Things I'm Not Afraid to Admit
Believe it or not, my dear mother tagged me! Yes, she has a blog, but I am not going to link to her right at the moment. Yet that's beside the point. SHE TAGGED ME!!!! Doesn't she know that I find these things difficult. Oh well.
I am to list 15 things I am not afraid to admit and then, I will tag the rest of you! Especially those of you who thrive on these things =) You probably won't discover anything new.....but that is they way things are. I don't find myself that interesting of a person; others are much more so.
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1.) I'm not afraid to admit that I don't have it all together. I never for the world want to send the message that I am a perfect model of how Christian womanhood should be. I really hate reading blogs, articles, or books that appear to have perfection. I want to let people know, it's all about grace day after day.
2.)I'm not afraid to admit that I have stuck a bead up my nose. Yes, you read that right. When I was six, I stuck a bead up my nose. And an obstetrician had to get it out with tweezers. Sometimes, I wish I had kept the blasted thing. For conversation's sake.
3.) I'm not afraid to admit that I once bit someone. Yes, you read that right as well. I will always remember the day. A "friend" of mine kept on singing the K-I-S-S-I-N-G song about me and a friend of mine. Well, after asking her to stop several times and her not heeding me, I bit her. Right on the arm. I think I drew blood. We weren't great friends to begin with (we didn't even like each other....but it's a long story) Only this made it worse.
4.) I'm not afraid to admit that I dance with imaginary partners in my bedroom. I don't really know how to dance. I only try to imitate what I watch on movies. So I think I am pretty good at the waltz. I expect that bubble to be broken one day =)
5.) I'm not afraid to admit that I listen to sports talk radio as I do exercising. I could rattle of the people I listen to, but since you don't know them....I won't.
6.) I'm not afraid to admit that I have been reading ESPN and BCS polls a lot these days. Got to see where my Broncos are fitting into the Bowl season.
7.) I'm not afraid to admit that I have over 100 books in my personal library. That figure isn't counting the books on our book shelf downstairs. It's MY books. I've read almost all of them. But yes, most of them are fiction.
8.) I'm not afraid to admit that I don't care for Dickens too much. I am reading "Our Mutual Friend" right now (and that's going well.) I have also read "A Christmas Carol" (but since I know that story, that read was fine.) Yet I tried "A Tale of Two Cities" once.....I only got to page 3.
9.) I'm not afraid to admit that I haven't tackled Shakespeare. That's right--a homeschooler who doesn't think highly of the guy. He's a little too wordy. Though I will "do hard things" and try him this year sometime.
10.) I'm not afraid to admit that I have a fear of stairs with holes in them. I think I will fall through.
11.) I'm not afraid to admit that I listen to other music BESIDES Christian music. Frank Sinatra is always on in our home. My CD player has the soundtrack from "Enchanted" and Celtic Woman on. I can't wait until I pull out Josh Groban's Christmas CD.
12.) I'm not afraid to admit that my best friends have been met in the confines of the internet. And my parents approve of each of them
13.) I'm not afraid to admit that I hate flying in airplanes. Should events happen in the next year that I need to go to, I would much rather live closer so I could drive....or even take a train. I hate takeoffs and landings especially.
14.) I'm not afraid to admit that I give a running commentary during movies. If ever y'all watch a movie with me, expect me to say something. I can't shut up, no matter how much Garrett would wish me too. I always make a retort about something whether I tell Anne Shirley for the upteenth millionth time that she is so stupid to reject Gilbert Blythe or something else. I even give a running commentary to the news. Just ask my family how many times I got angry with NBC for stereotyping me this year. =)
15.) I'm not afraid to admit that I love cooking. I go into baking spree mode a lot! It hasn't popped up this week, but it will, I am sure.
Alright, how much of that did you NOT know? Hopefully, I will discover more about y'all.
Jasmine
Julia
Miriam
Neesie
Kaysie
Jessica
Alice
Madison........you're all it!!
I am to list 15 things I am not afraid to admit and then, I will tag the rest of you! Especially those of you who thrive on these things =) You probably won't discover anything new.....but that is they way things are. I don't find myself that interesting of a person; others are much more so.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
1.) I'm not afraid to admit that I don't have it all together. I never for the world want to send the message that I am a perfect model of how Christian womanhood should be. I really hate reading blogs, articles, or books that appear to have perfection. I want to let people know, it's all about grace day after day.
2.)I'm not afraid to admit that I have stuck a bead up my nose. Yes, you read that right. When I was six, I stuck a bead up my nose. And an obstetrician had to get it out with tweezers. Sometimes, I wish I had kept the blasted thing. For conversation's sake.
3.) I'm not afraid to admit that I once bit someone. Yes, you read that right as well. I will always remember the day. A "friend" of mine kept on singing the K-I-S-S-I-N-G song about me and a friend of mine. Well, after asking her to stop several times and her not heeding me, I bit her. Right on the arm. I think I drew blood. We weren't great friends to begin with (we didn't even like each other....but it's a long story) Only this made it worse.
4.) I'm not afraid to admit that I dance with imaginary partners in my bedroom. I don't really know how to dance. I only try to imitate what I watch on movies. So I think I am pretty good at the waltz. I expect that bubble to be broken one day =)
5.) I'm not afraid to admit that I listen to sports talk radio as I do exercising. I could rattle of the people I listen to, but since you don't know them....I won't.
6.) I'm not afraid to admit that I have been reading ESPN and BCS polls a lot these days. Got to see where my Broncos are fitting into the Bowl season.
7.) I'm not afraid to admit that I have over 100 books in my personal library. That figure isn't counting the books on our book shelf downstairs. It's MY books. I've read almost all of them. But yes, most of them are fiction.
8.) I'm not afraid to admit that I don't care for Dickens too much. I am reading "Our Mutual Friend" right now (and that's going well.) I have also read "A Christmas Carol" (but since I know that story, that read was fine.) Yet I tried "A Tale of Two Cities" once.....I only got to page 3.
9.) I'm not afraid to admit that I haven't tackled Shakespeare. That's right--a homeschooler who doesn't think highly of the guy. He's a little too wordy. Though I will "do hard things" and try him this year sometime.
10.) I'm not afraid to admit that I have a fear of stairs with holes in them. I think I will fall through.
11.) I'm not afraid to admit that I listen to other music BESIDES Christian music. Frank Sinatra is always on in our home. My CD player has the soundtrack from "Enchanted" and Celtic Woman on. I can't wait until I pull out Josh Groban's Christmas CD.
12.) I'm not afraid to admit that my best friends have been met in the confines of the internet. And my parents approve of each of them
13.) I'm not afraid to admit that I hate flying in airplanes. Should events happen in the next year that I need to go to, I would much rather live closer so I could drive....or even take a train. I hate takeoffs and landings especially.
14.) I'm not afraid to admit that I give a running commentary during movies. If ever y'all watch a movie with me, expect me to say something. I can't shut up, no matter how much Garrett would wish me too. I always make a retort about something whether I tell Anne Shirley for the upteenth millionth time that she is so stupid to reject Gilbert Blythe or something else. I even give a running commentary to the news. Just ask my family how many times I got angry with NBC for stereotyping me this year. =)
15.) I'm not afraid to admit that I love cooking. I go into baking spree mode a lot! It hasn't popped up this week, but it will, I am sure.
Alright, how much of that did you NOT know? Hopefully, I will discover more about y'all.
Jasmine
Julia
Miriam
Neesie
Kaysie
Jessica
Alice
Madison........you're all it!!
Friday, November 07, 2008
Saving a Saul
Despondency and depression is everywhere these days. Almost the minute Barack Obama was elected, many people took the attitude "Oh, great. We're living in the End Times. Life is going to be tough and terrible!!" For a few moments, and during John McCain's concession speech, I had the same thoughts spinning through my head. But get the phrase "a few moments." I am better now. Why? Because the Lord brought one of the greatest conversion stories to my mind.
Meanwhile, Saul was uttering threats with every breath. He was eager to destory the Lord's followers, so he went to the high priest. He requested letters addressed to the synagogues in Damascus, asking their cooperation in the arrest of any followers of the Way he found there. He wanted to bring them--both men and women--back to Jerusalem in chains.
As he was nearing Damascus on this mission, a brilliant light from heaven suddenly beamed down upon him! He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, "Saul! Saul! Why are you persecuting me?"...........
Saul stayed with the believers in Damascus for a few days. And immediately he began preaching about Jesus in the synagogues saying, "He is indeed the Son of God!"
All who heard him were amazed. "Isn't this the same man who persecuted Jesus' followers with such devastation in Jerusalem?" they asked. "And we understand that he came here to arrest them and take them in chains to the leading priests."
Saul's preaching became more and more powerful and the Jews in Damascus couldn't refute his proofs that Jesus was indeed the Messiah.~Acts 9:1-4, 19-22
Meanwhile, Saul was uttering threats with every breath. He was eager to destory the Lord's followers, so he went to the high priest. He requested letters addressed to the synagogues in Damascus, asking their cooperation in the arrest of any followers of the Way he found there. He wanted to bring them--both men and women--back to Jerusalem in chains.
As he was nearing Damascus on this mission, a brilliant light from heaven suddenly beamed down upon him! He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, "Saul! Saul! Why are you persecuting me?"...........
Saul stayed with the believers in Damascus for a few days. And immediately he began preaching about Jesus in the synagogues saying, "He is indeed the Son of God!"
All who heard him were amazed. "Isn't this the same man who persecuted Jesus' followers with such devastation in Jerusalem?" they asked. "And we understand that he came here to arrest them and take them in chains to the leading priests."
Saul's preaching became more and more powerful and the Jews in Damascus couldn't refute his proofs that Jesus was indeed the Messiah.~Acts 9:1-4, 19-22
To the early Christians, Saul of Tarsus certainly looked like the greatest villian of all time. Just as Barack Obama appears to us today. But to the Lord, Saul was a soul worth saving; his reputation didn't stand in God's way. Consequently, Saul became Paul, one of our Christian patriarchs who endured much for the sake of the Father he once condemned.
Who are we to say that the Lord cannot do the same to President-Elect Obama? Sure it looks impossible to our fleshly nature that Obama can change. His reputation precedes him. But I am not going to put the Lord in a box. For all I know, the Lord's plan before the beginning of time could have been to RADICALLY change Obama's heart and have him at the helm of this nation. That Obama would end up doing what he could to reverse Roe vs. Wade, defining marriage, etc. I don't know, but I am praying towards those ends.
I would encourage you to be praying for Barack Obama as he enters 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. The Lord has given the United States him for a reason, so we had better stop griping and moaning about it. With God, ALL THINGS, even changing a seemingly unchangeable man, IS possible.
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
I Regret Nothing
A new day has dawned but yesterday remains the same. I didn't wake up to hear that states had been called way too prematurely or that there were chads hanging around. Barack Obama is still the presumptive 44th President of the United States. My state still went for McCain by a 62% to 36% margin. My Senate seat will remain in Republican hands. (Both of our Senators are Republican--only one seat was up for election.) And unfortunately, I just discovered that my U.S. House seat was taken by a Democrat and not our Conservative incumbent.
Geepers!! I live in a Democratic district now!!
But one thing remains the same as well. I do not regret anything I did yesterday.
I do not regret casting a ballot for McCain and Palin.
I do not regret voting for Jim Risch over Larry Larocco in the Senate Race.
I do not regret voting for Bill Sali over Walt Minnick--even though Sali lost.
My conscience is clear before God.
I was in the minority a great deal this election. I defied the pollsters and voting blocs as a first time voting young woman. Two of my candidates are not returning to Washington. (Well, that's not quite true: McCain is still a Senator from Arizona.) I have a different reason for why Obama was elected and it has nothing to do with what everyone is saying. It wasn't about race; it was Bush, Bush, Bush and Republican, Republican, Republican.
A new morning hasn't given me any new answers as to "Why." The answers are the same as they were at 9:00 MST. God is sovereign, He is in control, and He has a reason as to why Barack Obama will be this Nation's next leader. I do not regret that if it leads to the Lord being raised up, Christians getting more involved, the United States humbling themselves before God. I believe that God will protect his own--even though it does look freaky. But I am doing better.
Getting to do my part by voting, even for the losers and underdogs, has only whet my appetite to do it again. 2012 will find me not only voting, but getting more involved in campaigning for the candidates I believe in.
If that means I am helping the underdog.....I won't regret it.
If that means losing anyway.....I won't regret it.
If that means doing all I can to get Obama out of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.....then I am all for it.
Living in the United States of America is certainly not dull. History can change with each election. And I can play a part. So can you.
Geepers!! I live in a Democratic district now!!
But one thing remains the same as well. I do not regret anything I did yesterday.
I do not regret casting a ballot for McCain and Palin.
I do not regret voting for Jim Risch over Larry Larocco in the Senate Race.
I do not regret voting for Bill Sali over Walt Minnick--even though Sali lost.
My conscience is clear before God.
I was in the minority a great deal this election. I defied the pollsters and voting blocs as a first time voting young woman. Two of my candidates are not returning to Washington. (Well, that's not quite true: McCain is still a Senator from Arizona.) I have a different reason for why Obama was elected and it has nothing to do with what everyone is saying. It wasn't about race; it was Bush, Bush, Bush and Republican, Republican, Republican.
A new morning hasn't given me any new answers as to "Why." The answers are the same as they were at 9:00 MST. God is sovereign, He is in control, and He has a reason as to why Barack Obama will be this Nation's next leader. I do not regret that if it leads to the Lord being raised up, Christians getting more involved, the United States humbling themselves before God. I believe that God will protect his own--even though it does look freaky. But I am doing better.
Getting to do my part by voting, even for the losers and underdogs, has only whet my appetite to do it again. 2012 will find me not only voting, but getting more involved in campaigning for the candidates I believe in.
If that means I am helping the underdog.....I won't regret it.
If that means losing anyway.....I won't regret it.
If that means doing all I can to get Obama out of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.....then I am all for it.
Living in the United States of America is certainly not dull. History can change with each election. And I can play a part. So can you.
Tuesday, November 04, 2008
Absolutely, Positively, Without a Doubt FED UP!!!
Update: None of you have commented yet, but this should be updated. So, it's official. Yes, God is sovereign, but I am depressed. The tears have come. Life certainly looks bleak for these next four years. My voting for the woman didn't do anything. Those of you who were against her, you won't have to deal with her.
We've got our first black president. Yes, that is momentous. I wish people realized what this means in addition to history being made.
My U.S. House Seat isn't looking that great, either. Boy, how I wish I had gotten involved.
The clock is ticking. Four years....and I get to vote Obama out of office. I am definitely doing my part in 2012.
But you can read my thoughts from earlier in the evening:
Live blogging right now as I watch all of this election stuff unfold. I wish I could say I was pleased and interested with what I am seeing--but I am not! Things aren't looking good. God is sovereign, so I know He knows what He is doing--but there is my flesh which says "How is this good? Why?"
I could be wrong. I'd like to think so. But look at the map.
But am I only fed up with how things are looking? No, I am not. I live in a very conservative family, but since we don't have cable, we aren't in that camp that watches Fox News. I have grown up watching NBC. The people are familiar faces. But if things are supposed to be unbiased, they sure aren't!!! All I am hearing about is the African-American vote and how it will change the face of things.
Now, lest you think I am anti-black, white supremest, I want you to read this post by my dear friend, Jasmine. She's black and it sums up my thoughts and feelings totally. I would love a black president. Just not this one with his policies and stances.
Palin isn't getting coverage. I know she's a touchy subject, but I do like her. Why am I not hearing more the potential of a female vice president? When Hillary was campaigning, that was all we heard about.
And I am sick of being stereotyped. This young voter did not vote for Obama. Getting health care given to me by the government wasn't my top issue. This girl voted for McCain. The Supreme Court was my top issue. And I am proud of it.
Okay, I think I am angry enough. Sadly, all Obama needs to take the presidency is California and something else. Think he's going to do it....at this point any way. May God have mercy on us.
We've got our first black president. Yes, that is momentous. I wish people realized what this means in addition to history being made.
My U.S. House Seat isn't looking that great, either. Boy, how I wish I had gotten involved.
The clock is ticking. Four years....and I get to vote Obama out of office. I am definitely doing my part in 2012.
But you can read my thoughts from earlier in the evening:
Live blogging right now as I watch all of this election stuff unfold. I wish I could say I was pleased and interested with what I am seeing--but I am not! Things aren't looking good. God is sovereign, so I know He knows what He is doing--but there is my flesh which says "How is this good? Why?"
I could be wrong. I'd like to think so. But look at the map.
But am I only fed up with how things are looking? No, I am not. I live in a very conservative family, but since we don't have cable, we aren't in that camp that watches Fox News. I have grown up watching NBC. The people are familiar faces. But if things are supposed to be unbiased, they sure aren't!!! All I am hearing about is the African-American vote and how it will change the face of things.
Now, lest you think I am anti-black, white supremest, I want you to read this post by my dear friend, Jasmine. She's black and it sums up my thoughts and feelings totally. I would love a black president. Just not this one with his policies and stances.
Palin isn't getting coverage. I know she's a touchy subject, but I do like her. Why am I not hearing more the potential of a female vice president? When Hillary was campaigning, that was all we heard about.
And I am sick of being stereotyped. This young voter did not vote for Obama. Getting health care given to me by the government wasn't my top issue. This girl voted for McCain. The Supreme Court was my top issue. And I am proud of it.
Okay, I think I am angry enough. Sadly, all Obama needs to take the presidency is California and something else. Think he's going to do it....at this point any way. May God have mercy on us.
Monday, November 03, 2008
If My People....
"What if the armies of the Lord
Picked up and dusted off their swords
Vowed to set the captives free
And not let Satan have one more.
What if the church, for Heaven's sake,
Finally stepped up to the plate
Took a stand upon God's promise
And stormed Hell's rusty gates
What if His people prayed
And those who bare his name
Would only seek His face
And turn from their own way.
And what would happen if we prayed
For those raised up to lead the way
Then maybe kids in school could pray
And unborn children see light of day
What if the light that we pursue
Came from a hunger for the truth
What if the family turned to Jesus
Stopped asking Oprah what to do."
Father God, this song by Casting Crowns reminds me of 2 Chronicles 7:14: "The if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from Heaven and will forgive their sins and heal their land." Oh, how desperately we are in need of healing! We, as a Nation, have turned so far from you. In all honesty, we deserve your judgment.
You are absolutely sovereign; since the world began, you knew what the outcome of November 4th, 2008 would be. The candidate who will be elected will not take you by surprise--and he will fulfill your purposes and plans....whether we like him or not.
Yet, Father, I come before you on behalf of our nation. And I ask that you would extend mercy to us. WE know what we deserve. But at the cross, you didn't give us what we did deserve (which was your judgment and eternal damnation.) Rather, you gave us grace and mercy
.
So much is at stake, Lord. You know that. There are our basic freedoms....and that isn't mentioning things like abortion, marriage, and not becoming a Socialist nation. While I know I have no reason to fear, for you are in control, I will admit that I can be afraid of what appears to be.
All I can do tomorrow is get out and vote as you have guided me. The rest is in your hands and I KNOW, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that you will keep and preserve that which you want. Mortals can only do so much. You alone are God.
The rest of you----PRAY!! And if you can, VOTE!!!
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