Friday Night Singing
Laura
Saturday, August 05, 2006
CBC 6th Week 2006 Pictures!
Friday Night Singing
Laura
Saturday, July 22, 2006
Hawk's Prey
One of BeBe's favorite spots to play is at the top of the blinds in our Paladian window. He's actually quite clever and acrobatic. He'll jump from his play pen, up to the top of the entertainment center, climb up the curtain, and dangle out to grab the blind cords. Then, just like in the circus, balance on the strings and climb up them to the top.
Lately, he's been chewing on the blinds. I don't really like it when he does that, so I have been opening the blinds by pulling them all the way up so he can't chew on them. This makes for a clear view of Food Lion, brings in a lot of light, and apparently disguises the fact that there is glass in our window.
Thank goodness for glass because we wouldn't have a BeBe anymore if there hadn't been glass there. Imagine this sight:
This was the view that we got as a hawk glided down toward our window towards the spot that BeBe was sitting on at the top of the blinds.
Bam!
Fluttering.... Flapping... Falling....
Bam!
Squeeking and skwaking....
Yes, there are two Bams in there.
The hawk went for BeBe, BeBe saw it, freaked out and fell down. The hawk apparently still didn't realize that there was glass there, because when BeBe fell, it hit the glass again, thinking that he had just missed.
This is what would've gotten BeBe if the glass hadn't been there:
Yikes! Those look sharp.
Hawk dives always crack me up (except when they are freaking my baby, I mean, my BeBe, out). The other day, I was driving on the Durham Freeway and a low flying hawk comes swooping in over our lane. It grabs its prey right under the guard rail and in a swift move, goes through that hole under the rail.
When hawks dive for prey, it reminds me of a lady in a dress. The hawk lifts it's skirt of feathers to reveal it's teeny little chicken legs with over grown nails.
Anyways, this whole episode had poor BeBe freaked out. Rodney and I comforted him and just still looked through the window in amazement. The hawk, I guess, was unphased as we didn't see it lying on the ground anywhere in shock.
Well, I guess BeBe may be hanging out on his cage more than at the top of the window. At least until he truly realizes that he is protected. I know I probably would be freaked out if I were him too. It is like being in an aquarium and a shark ramming the glass right where you're at. You know there is glass there, but the innate instinct of predator versus prey is still quite scary.
Lately, he's been chewing on the blinds. I don't really like it when he does that, so I have been opening the blinds by pulling them all the way up so he can't chew on them. This makes for a clear view of Food Lion, brings in a lot of light, and apparently disguises the fact that there is glass in our window.
Thank goodness for glass because we wouldn't have a BeBe anymore if there hadn't been glass there. Imagine this sight:
This was the view that we got as a hawk glided down toward our window towards the spot that BeBe was sitting on at the top of the blinds.Bam!
Fluttering.... Flapping... Falling....
Bam!
Squeeking and skwaking....
Yes, there are two Bams in there.
The hawk went for BeBe, BeBe saw it, freaked out and fell down. The hawk apparently still didn't realize that there was glass there, because when BeBe fell, it hit the glass again, thinking that he had just missed.
This is what would've gotten BeBe if the glass hadn't been there:
Yikes! Those look sharp. Hawk dives always crack me up (except when they are freaking my baby, I mean, my BeBe, out). The other day, I was driving on the Durham Freeway and a low flying hawk comes swooping in over our lane. It grabs its prey right under the guard rail and in a swift move, goes through that hole under the rail.
When hawks dive for prey, it reminds me of a lady in a dress. The hawk lifts it's skirt of feathers to reveal it's teeny little chicken legs with over grown nails.
Anyways, this whole episode had poor BeBe freaked out. Rodney and I comforted him and just still looked through the window in amazement. The hawk, I guess, was unphased as we didn't see it lying on the ground anywhere in shock.
Well, I guess BeBe may be hanging out on his cage more than at the top of the window. At least until he truly realizes that he is protected. I know I probably would be freaked out if I were him too. It is like being in an aquarium and a shark ramming the glass right where you're at. You know there is glass there, but the innate instinct of predator versus prey is still quite scary.
Monday, July 17, 2006
Lovestone Inn
July 1-4 we stayed at the Lovestone Inn. It really is the best-kept secret at Smith Mountain Lake, VA. No doubt about it, my husband and I will go back. We stayed in the Spring Garden room on the third floor while my parents stayed in the basement in the Summer Rose room. Might I suggest going out on their boat, swimming and fishing off the dock, and the hot tub! The breakfasts were superb and the owners, Tom and Dawn were awesome. You should go! Next time, we will stay for the fireworks on the lake on the 4th!
The Front of the Inn
The Property was quite large and right on the lake!
Tom was hilarious and a quite thorough tour guide of the lake
Beautiful Views
The resort we had dinner at one night... great ribs!
What lightning will do to your house... thankfully the owner was out of town.
The other side of the dam
The other side of the dam
Aren't we cute and windblown....
Rodney and Oreo; yes, Oreo is wearing a doggie lifevest.
Awww.... too cute. My parents on the boat ride.
Cool Willow tree near the dock
Awww.... too cute. My parents on the boat ride.
Cool Willow tree near the dock
Our own private beach on the lake
My future lake home. Apparently the lots run close to a million. Just the land!
We swam pretty far out from the dock to the "No Wake" Buoys (Me, Rod, Dad). They're hard to see because they are so far away!
The Whole Crew!
Sunset on the Lake! Gorgeous!
Thursday, July 13, 2006
Who? (Poem)
Who do THEY say He is?
Savior, Prophet, Messiah
The Word, devoted, Faith
A Heart brimming over
Son of God, Love Sacrifice
He became sin to cleanse us
plucked from below to rise again
OVERCOMING
He WAS there at the beginning
He IS here NOW
He WILL be there at the end
Against the flow of the world
Transforming us
He is everything you want to be
Fulfilling your true purpose
Finally made whole
Who do YOU say He is?
By Tamara Money
© TRM 2006
Savior, Prophet, Messiah
The Word, devoted, Faith
A Heart brimming over
Son of God, Love Sacrifice
He became sin to cleanse us
plucked from below to rise again
OVERCOMING
He WAS there at the beginning
He IS here NOW
He WILL be there at the end
Against the flow of the world
Transforming us
He is everything you want to be
Fulfilling your true purpose
Finally made whole
Who do YOU say He is?
By Tamara Money
© TRM 2006
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
The Dress for My Brother's Wedding
This is my dress for Thomas and Rachel's wedding. I like it a lot. I love it when we have control of what dress, or at least top, we can wear. It always looks good. I will tell you that I was a bit worried when she picked mystic purple, but not because I don't like the color because I do love it. There just happens to be a lot less variety in that color as far as styles go, but I found something, so it's all good! I let my bridesmaids pick their tops in red and everyone looked so awesome. Even though my wedding was "my day" I wanted everyone to look good. On Jen's day, everyone looked so beautiful! This does work! I really honestly believe that you cannot pick one dress that looks good on everyone, unless all your bridesmaids are all the same size and body shape. Plus, when we were picking the dresses out, I got to see what everyone picked out and how it looked on them. That's the joy of David's Bridal. I also like the fact that when we pick our own tops, usually we avoid alterations. That is definitely a money saver. Rachel is letting us pick out our shoes as long as they are silver. Jen did the same thing for her wedding in white (her dresses were periwinkle) as well as I did in black. It is so smart to just pick a color for the shoes and let your attendees do the picking. You end up with the control of how much money you spend and whether or not you want to enjoy fashion or foot pain. We all have such different feet and it is considerate to think of that. Anyways, I just thought I'd share what my dress looks like. I definitely look forwards to wearing it again, just because I know I will be able to (because it looks good). I know I will be able to wear the dress I had for Jen's wedding again too. Bring on the formals!
Monday, July 10, 2006
Prayer Vigil
A PRAYER VIGIL to honor the life of Pedro Pablo Josue Gasperine Quijano will be held Saturday, July 15th at 3:00 PM, on the corner of Fairfax Street and London Circle (Directions: take E. Geer Street to N. Miami Blvd., take second left off N. Miami Blvd onto Greenbriar Street; then take first right onto Fairfax Road and London Circle is one block on right.)
Mr. Quijano was fatally shot on April 25, 2006. He was 44 years old.
Prayers will be led by Anna Lee Mosley, lay member of the Religious Coalition for a Nonviolent Durham. All faiths and ages are welcome.
A tribute to Pedro Gasperin Quijano can be found at http://stargazrt4.blogspot.com/2006/04/in-memory-of.html.
The purpose of our Prayer Vigils for Homicide Victims is to bring people together to honor the lives of the victims, comfort the family, friends and neighbors; to pray for peace and healing in the neighborhood and throughout all Durham; to allow those affected the opportunity to have their voices heard and their grief acknowledged; and to publicly protest to the community that such violence is unacceptable and requires all those who want to promote justice and mercy to take action. The Vigils are coordinated by the Religious Coalition for a Nonviolent Durham, Parents of Murdered Children and Durham Congregations In Action. For more information please call Marcia Owen at 919-489-3531 or email mowen8@nc.rr.com.
Mr. Quijano was fatally shot on April 25, 2006. He was 44 years old.
Prayers will be led by Anna Lee Mosley, lay member of the Religious Coalition for a Nonviolent Durham. All faiths and ages are welcome.
A tribute to Pedro Gasperin Quijano can be found at http://stargazrt4.blogspot.com/2006/04/in-memory-of.html.
The purpose of our Prayer Vigils for Homicide Victims is to bring people together to honor the lives of the victims, comfort the family, friends and neighbors; to pray for peace and healing in the neighborhood and throughout all Durham; to allow those affected the opportunity to have their voices heard and their grief acknowledged; and to publicly protest to the community that such violence is unacceptable and requires all those who want to promote justice and mercy to take action. The Vigils are coordinated by the Religious Coalition for a Nonviolent Durham, Parents of Murdered Children and Durham Congregations In Action. For more information please call Marcia Owen at 919-489-3531 or email mowen8@nc.rr.com.
Friday, July 07, 2006
Wove, Troo Wove.
Rodney and I just celebrated our 1 year anniversary. Can you believe it's been one year? I've learned several new things about being a wife, about being married, about myself in the past year.
Gratefully, we have been blessed by the Lord to have had a most awesome year. I can't say the year went perfectly or without problems/arguments, but those were minimal and we learned from them.
Some of the lessons I've learned as a wife and woman:
My husband is #1 in my life (of course behind God). I should make my plans around him especially. What do I mean by this? He takes priority in my schedule over extended family, friends, church, business, and social events (to mention a few aspects of life). I try to be home when he comes home. I take care of all the needs he has that I can help with. Spend more time with your spouse than with your outside family (parents, siblings, pets) and friends.
My special objective is to make our house a home. This is seen very prominently in Proverbs 31. Mainly, I just keep the house in order, take care of BeBe, and just try to make it a pleasant environment for him (which makes it a pleasant environment for me). This definitely includes keeping my attitude in check and watching my tongue (what I say and tone of voice). Always greet each other with a kiss and a hug and pay special mind to each other when you come home (aka turn off TV for a bit or at least mute, stop what you're doing).
I had to cut the apron strings from my parents. Though my Mom was where I went to in the past about everything, now that person is my husband. Granted, I still talk to my Mom as we are very close, but I run everything I need to talk about through Rodney. I want to make sure he knows how I am feeling, what I am going through, and just general things about life from day-to-day. Oh, and I never, and I mean never, say anything bad or negative about Rodney to my parents. This is because, first of all, anything specifically between us is not their business, and, second of all, you avoid "bad blood." Not to say I don't ask for advice about things, I just choose to ask it without mentioning negative things or by using generalities. My personal opinion is that this is especially important in order to create a lasting and deep relationship with my husband. If we ever decide to have kids, this will be extremely important, too, as we are raising our own kids, not our parents telling us or raising our kids for us. They may not mean to, but it is all to0 easy to have opinions if they are overly involved. If we do have kids, I certainly won't be living next door to them! By the way, we still don't want kids, we will just love on other people's kids!
Money is pretty much the source of all our struggles. Mainly, the lack thereof. I have really worked hard on myself to stop impulse buying (though I still accidentally slip) and buy really what we need. Greenville was really hard on us financially. We went into some debt because we didn't have decent jobs and needed to live. It is expensive to live out in the real world, so make sure you budget your finances. Do allot some money toward some sortof pleasure, whether it be a romantic dinner or something you both want to buy.
Support each other's dreams. It doesn't matter how extravagant or wacko you might think their dreams are, if they believe in them, you should too. Dreams are important to everyone. When we have dreams that we really believe in, being in a close environment with someone who doesn't support you by not believing in your dream is the same thing as a cut to the heart. You may have to adjust a little bit, but in a true love relationship, you are to complete the other person. Part of that completion is loving that person, their spirit, their dreams.
Compromise!!!! This is probably one of the top things that needs to occur in a marital relationship. One spouse should not dominate over the other, or allow outside people (which is everyone but you two) to dominate their relationship, decisions, or beliefs. Discussions should occur especially about spiritual things before marriage (especially if you two were raised in different religious backgrounds). Some of the basic spiritual beliefs may remain different between you and your spouse, but the compromise comes in in where to worship, how to raise the kids, etc. If you choose not to compromise, you create strife. If you allow outside people to make your decisions for you, you will become dependent on them and not your spouse. I cannot reiterate this more, but compromise is the best agenda in decisions to be made. Adjustments will be made on both sides of a compromise, but the nice thing is that that is the best way to grow yourself and your relationship with one another. A couple compromises that Rodney and I had to make were where to live, what kindof food to have the house, how many social/church events and what type of events we went to, and where we both felt comfortable worshipping.
Lastly, build your relationship around God. This is number one in marriage. You will be happier and stronger in the Lord. That's just the way it works out. Statistically, the divorce rate is still lower in the church than it is outside the church. Children raised in the church tend to turn out better and have stronger holds on their roots and beliefs. I know, personally, that I am a better woman because my parents raised me in the church. The same can be said of Rodney.
Now I know that I have only been married a year, but this is the advice I can give as a newly wed. We plan to remain perpetual honeymooners, and the main way to do that is through the things I've learned and by applying those things. It is not enough to just hear them, you must apply them and take action.
Book Recommendations:
The Bible (Proverbs 31 among other verses)
A Woman After God's Own Heart by Elizabeth George
The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman
His Needs, Her Needs by Willard F. Harley
Gratefully, we have been blessed by the Lord to have had a most awesome year. I can't say the year went perfectly or without problems/arguments, but those were minimal and we learned from them.
Some of the lessons I've learned as a wife and woman:
My husband is #1 in my life (of course behind God). I should make my plans around him especially. What do I mean by this? He takes priority in my schedule over extended family, friends, church, business, and social events (to mention a few aspects of life). I try to be home when he comes home. I take care of all the needs he has that I can help with. Spend more time with your spouse than with your outside family (parents, siblings, pets) and friends.
My special objective is to make our house a home. This is seen very prominently in Proverbs 31. Mainly, I just keep the house in order, take care of BeBe, and just try to make it a pleasant environment for him (which makes it a pleasant environment for me). This definitely includes keeping my attitude in check and watching my tongue (what I say and tone of voice). Always greet each other with a kiss and a hug and pay special mind to each other when you come home (aka turn off TV for a bit or at least mute, stop what you're doing).
I had to cut the apron strings from my parents. Though my Mom was where I went to in the past about everything, now that person is my husband. Granted, I still talk to my Mom as we are very close, but I run everything I need to talk about through Rodney. I want to make sure he knows how I am feeling, what I am going through, and just general things about life from day-to-day. Oh, and I never, and I mean never, say anything bad or negative about Rodney to my parents. This is because, first of all, anything specifically between us is not their business, and, second of all, you avoid "bad blood." Not to say I don't ask for advice about things, I just choose to ask it without mentioning negative things or by using generalities. My personal opinion is that this is especially important in order to create a lasting and deep relationship with my husband. If we ever decide to have kids, this will be extremely important, too, as we are raising our own kids, not our parents telling us or raising our kids for us. They may not mean to, but it is all to0 easy to have opinions if they are overly involved. If we do have kids, I certainly won't be living next door to them! By the way, we still don't want kids, we will just love on other people's kids!
Money is pretty much the source of all our struggles. Mainly, the lack thereof. I have really worked hard on myself to stop impulse buying (though I still accidentally slip) and buy really what we need. Greenville was really hard on us financially. We went into some debt because we didn't have decent jobs and needed to live. It is expensive to live out in the real world, so make sure you budget your finances. Do allot some money toward some sortof pleasure, whether it be a romantic dinner or something you both want to buy.
Support each other's dreams. It doesn't matter how extravagant or wacko you might think their dreams are, if they believe in them, you should too. Dreams are important to everyone. When we have dreams that we really believe in, being in a close environment with someone who doesn't support you by not believing in your dream is the same thing as a cut to the heart. You may have to adjust a little bit, but in a true love relationship, you are to complete the other person. Part of that completion is loving that person, their spirit, their dreams.
Compromise!!!! This is probably one of the top things that needs to occur in a marital relationship. One spouse should not dominate over the other, or allow outside people (which is everyone but you two) to dominate their relationship, decisions, or beliefs. Discussions should occur especially about spiritual things before marriage (especially if you two were raised in different religious backgrounds). Some of the basic spiritual beliefs may remain different between you and your spouse, but the compromise comes in in where to worship, how to raise the kids, etc. If you choose not to compromise, you create strife. If you allow outside people to make your decisions for you, you will become dependent on them and not your spouse. I cannot reiterate this more, but compromise is the best agenda in decisions to be made. Adjustments will be made on both sides of a compromise, but the nice thing is that that is the best way to grow yourself and your relationship with one another. A couple compromises that Rodney and I had to make were where to live, what kindof food to have the house, how many social/church events and what type of events we went to, and where we both felt comfortable worshipping.
Lastly, build your relationship around God. This is number one in marriage. You will be happier and stronger in the Lord. That's just the way it works out. Statistically, the divorce rate is still lower in the church than it is outside the church. Children raised in the church tend to turn out better and have stronger holds on their roots and beliefs. I know, personally, that I am a better woman because my parents raised me in the church. The same can be said of Rodney.
Now I know that I have only been married a year, but this is the advice I can give as a newly wed. We plan to remain perpetual honeymooners, and the main way to do that is through the things I've learned and by applying those things. It is not enough to just hear them, you must apply them and take action.
Book Recommendations:
The Bible (Proverbs 31 among other verses)
A Woman After God's Own Heart by Elizabeth George
The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman
His Needs, Her Needs by Willard F. Harley
Thursday, June 29, 2006
Jen and Ben's Wedding
A Bride/Groom Dance
Up the Stairs....
Cake in the Face!
Getting the Garter
Dan and My Husband
Throwing the Bouquet
Beth and Me
Bride, Groom, Matron of Honor
3 Bestest Friends!
Tuesday, June 20, 2006
Canes Win!!!!!!
Go Canes! I've been a loyal fan since they came here to NC in 1997. I am so excited about them! They are my team! Hockey is my favorite sport to watch. Late last night, after some meetings, I enjoyed watching the Canes win their first Stanley Cup. Even though this series has had me on my toes throughout Games 4-7 especially, I still believed in them and knew they would pull it off.One piece of commentary... that call for the goal that would've been the Cane's second goal for the evening, should've been ruled a score. They should've been more patient and taken more time to review the play. Even with that bad call and a few more in the third period, the Canes dominated!
I do have to say that Oilers' fans are definitely some of the most polite fans I have ever seen. I heard comments from both sides on the gracious and polite ways each side treated each other.
Praise be to heaven for this win. In celebration, I wore my Canes jersey to work today.... with a skirt. LOL. Anyways, the celebrations will continue and again CONGRATULATIONS!
"And that's a hurricanes goal... Woo, Woo Woo!"
"We are the champions!"
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
Beauty Tips by Audrey Hepburn
For attractive lips, Speak words of kindness.For lovely eyes, Seek out the good in people.
For a slim figure, Share your food with the hungry.
For beautiful hair, Let a child run his or her fingers through it once a day.
For poise, Walk with the knowledge you'll never walk alone.
People, even more than things, have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed and redeemed; Never throw out anybody. Remember, if you ever need a helping hand, you'll find one at the end of your arm.
As you grow older you will discover that you have two hands; one for helping yourself, the other for helping others.
The beauty of a woman is not in the clothes she wears, the figure that she carries, or the way she combs her hair.
The beauty of a woman must be seen from in her eyes, because that is the doorway to her heart, the place where love resides.
The beauty of a woman is not in a facial mole, but true beauty in a Woman is reflected in her soul. It is the caring that she lovingly gives, the passion that she knows.
And the beauty of a woman, with passing years only grows!
Monday, June 12, 2006
The Gospel According to You
The most beautiful story given to man
Was written long ago
By Matthew, Mark, Luke and John
Of Christ and His mission below.
And you write a gospel, a chapter a day,
By your deeds, whether faithless or true;
When others read it, what will they think
In the gospel according to you?
It's a wonderful story, the Gospel of love,
As it shines with Christ's life divine.
Oh, that its truth might be told again
In the story of your life and mine.
You are writing each day a letter to all;
Take care that the writing is true.
It's the only gospel some people may read,
The gospel according to you.
Author Unknown
Was written long ago
By Matthew, Mark, Luke and John
Of Christ and His mission below.
And you write a gospel, a chapter a day,
By your deeds, whether faithless or true;
When others read it, what will they think
In the gospel according to you?
It's a wonderful story, the Gospel of love,
As it shines with Christ's life divine.
Oh, that its truth might be told again
In the story of your life and mine.
You are writing each day a letter to all;
Take care that the writing is true.
It's the only gospel some people may read,
The gospel according to you.
Author Unknown
Thursday, June 08, 2006
Lovebird Saga
Yesterday, I about had a heart attack. My lovebird, BeBe, is truly my child and I would have a hard time dealing with his loss, especially if it were my fault.
Carelessly, I was throwing some boxes outside of my door to take down to the dumpster later and the door was mostly open. BeBe took the opportunity, as he is flying now, to fly to me, landing on my back. I am supposed to be aware and attentive of his presence in regards to where he is, especially when the door is open. When he landed on my back, it freaked me out a little, so I quickly pushed the box that was in the doorway out making a loud noise as I did, which freaked him out and he took off.
This take off was not back into the apartment, rather out the door and out around our building, out of my sight. I, needless to say, freaked out! I took off down the stairs after him, not know where he had flown off to. The back of my building, where our apartment is, has a Food Lion on the other side of a mini-hill/hedge of bushes and trees. I didn't know if he flew somewhere over there or around to our parking lot.
I started calling out his name. Where was he? A neighbor in the building next to us saw me freaking out and asked what was wrong. I told him my bird had flown out the door and that I was looking for him. Like true maternal instinct, I continued to call out his name as my neighbor, Mark followed me.
Then came the sound that I was listening for. BeBe called back to me. At this point, I was still on my apartment building's side of the parking lot, but he was loud enough for me to home in on his call. It ws coming from the building across the parking lot from our building. I made my way over there, worrying that he was in the tree that was next to it. How was I going to get him out?
As I approached the tree, he kept calling to me as I called to him, and then I saw him. He was standing on the rail of the second story balcony. I kept calling him and calling him, but he would not come down to me. I couldn't reach him!
To make matters worse, an 18-wheeler hauler (the front cab of the truck) pulled up by us and it frightened BeBe. He took off again, circling out into the parking lot, but back around to the same building (thank the Lord!). This time he landed on the first floor roof apex. I still couldn't get him from there, so I kept calling out to him.
At this point, I was losing it. This was my baby, and I wanted him back. Mark asked me if I had any seed and I said I did but it was up in my apartment around the back of the building across the street. Besides, there was no way I was taking my eyes off of BeBe.
Mark walked away briefly and then BeBe took off again. Everytime he took off, I feared that was the last time I was going to see him. I didn't know where he would fly to. However, he wanted to be near me, so he circled around again and this time landed on the same roof but on the edge near the gutter. I stood there begging him to come down to me and he made the edging movements he makes when he wants to come down to me. He just didn't have the confidence to come down.
The second floor neighbor, whose balcony BeBe had originally landed on, came out onto the balcony wondering who was calling to "BeBe." That's when he saw me and I told him my lovebird was right at the edge of the roof there. He told me to calm down because BeBe is not used to seeing me upset like that, which he was absolutely right!
I edged closer and figured I might be able to reach him. But, not from the ground. I started climbing. BeBe is comfortable with me, so me approaching him did cause him to fly away; he just kept watching me, wanting to get to me. I climbed up the rail (in my skirt and dress shoes of all things) balanced myself and reached out.....
I got him! I quickly threw him into my shirt just as Mark was returning with seed and a fish net. I was praising God at this point. My nice neighbor up on the second floor watched me and told me to wait so he could help me get down, but I thanked him and just jumped down on my own.
I thanked both Mark and this other neighbor profusely for the encouragement and help. With BeBe still in my shirt (close to my heart), I walked back up to the apartment, which had the door wide open (I took off down the stairs, no regard to what I was wearing or where I was going).
I had my BeBe back. That was what mattered. Not the wood rash on my legs from climbing nor the aching feet from running in my dress shoes. I had my BeBe.
You sometimes don't realize how much you love something until you lose it, or at least in this case, almost lose it. Many lovebirds don't make it their full life span because of household accidents or from flying away. BeBe has no outdoor survival skills. He would easily be picked off by a predator.
All in all, lesson learned. We are his flock, his family, his mate, and I am just truly glad that he recognized my voice when I called out to him. He called back.
This directly parallels how the Lord is our flock, our father, our mate. He calls out to us. But we want to fly out and away, venture into the unknown dangers. We know that we want to get back to Him, but we don't know how or don't have the confidence to do so. We finally recognize His voice and call back to Him. He calls back to us. We wait for Him to rescue us and He does. He reaches out to us, puts us in His arms and holds us close to His heart. He has His child back....
Carelessly, I was throwing some boxes outside of my door to take down to the dumpster later and the door was mostly open. BeBe took the opportunity, as he is flying now, to fly to me, landing on my back. I am supposed to be aware and attentive of his presence in regards to where he is, especially when the door is open. When he landed on my back, it freaked me out a little, so I quickly pushed the box that was in the doorway out making a loud noise as I did, which freaked him out and he took off.
This take off was not back into the apartment, rather out the door and out around our building, out of my sight. I, needless to say, freaked out! I took off down the stairs after him, not know where he had flown off to. The back of my building, where our apartment is, has a Food Lion on the other side of a mini-hill/hedge of bushes and trees. I didn't know if he flew somewhere over there or around to our parking lot.
I started calling out his name. Where was he? A neighbor in the building next to us saw me freaking out and asked what was wrong. I told him my bird had flown out the door and that I was looking for him. Like true maternal instinct, I continued to call out his name as my neighbor, Mark followed me.
Then came the sound that I was listening for. BeBe called back to me. At this point, I was still on my apartment building's side of the parking lot, but he was loud enough for me to home in on his call. It ws coming from the building across the parking lot from our building. I made my way over there, worrying that he was in the tree that was next to it. How was I going to get him out?
As I approached the tree, he kept calling to me as I called to him, and then I saw him. He was standing on the rail of the second story balcony. I kept calling him and calling him, but he would not come down to me. I couldn't reach him!
To make matters worse, an 18-wheeler hauler (the front cab of the truck) pulled up by us and it frightened BeBe. He took off again, circling out into the parking lot, but back around to the same building (thank the Lord!). This time he landed on the first floor roof apex. I still couldn't get him from there, so I kept calling out to him.
At this point, I was losing it. This was my baby, and I wanted him back. Mark asked me if I had any seed and I said I did but it was up in my apartment around the back of the building across the street. Besides, there was no way I was taking my eyes off of BeBe.
Mark walked away briefly and then BeBe took off again. Everytime he took off, I feared that was the last time I was going to see him. I didn't know where he would fly to. However, he wanted to be near me, so he circled around again and this time landed on the same roof but on the edge near the gutter. I stood there begging him to come down to me and he made the edging movements he makes when he wants to come down to me. He just didn't have the confidence to come down.
The second floor neighbor, whose balcony BeBe had originally landed on, came out onto the balcony wondering who was calling to "BeBe." That's when he saw me and I told him my lovebird was right at the edge of the roof there. He told me to calm down because BeBe is not used to seeing me upset like that, which he was absolutely right!
I edged closer and figured I might be able to reach him. But, not from the ground. I started climbing. BeBe is comfortable with me, so me approaching him did cause him to fly away; he just kept watching me, wanting to get to me. I climbed up the rail (in my skirt and dress shoes of all things) balanced myself and reached out.....
I got him! I quickly threw him into my shirt just as Mark was returning with seed and a fish net. I was praising God at this point. My nice neighbor up on the second floor watched me and told me to wait so he could help me get down, but I thanked him and just jumped down on my own.
I thanked both Mark and this other neighbor profusely for the encouragement and help. With BeBe still in my shirt (close to my heart), I walked back up to the apartment, which had the door wide open (I took off down the stairs, no regard to what I was wearing or where I was going).
I had my BeBe back. That was what mattered. Not the wood rash on my legs from climbing nor the aching feet from running in my dress shoes. I had my BeBe.
You sometimes don't realize how much you love something until you lose it, or at least in this case, almost lose it. Many lovebirds don't make it their full life span because of household accidents or from flying away. BeBe has no outdoor survival skills. He would easily be picked off by a predator.
All in all, lesson learned. We are his flock, his family, his mate, and I am just truly glad that he recognized my voice when I called out to him. He called back.
This directly parallels how the Lord is our flock, our father, our mate. He calls out to us. But we want to fly out and away, venture into the unknown dangers. We know that we want to get back to Him, but we don't know how or don't have the confidence to do so. We finally recognize His voice and call back to Him. He calls back to us. We wait for Him to rescue us and He does. He reaches out to us, puts us in His arms and holds us close to His heart. He has His child back....
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
Destiny
endings are not natural
though we long for a better belonging
golden streets of happiness
a presence of Him almighty
reunions from beyond
knowings of beauty
uncomparable sights,
sounds,
smells,
emotions
a desire that pulls on our heart strings
an understanding of a true home
perfection never attained
until now
within the realm of eternity
gainfully gleeful
a heart fulfilled
brimming with love
praise forever untireable
predestined
accepting this fate
living in the now
yet,
living for eternity
© 2006 TRM
though we long for a better belonging
golden streets of happiness
a presence of Him almighty
reunions from beyond
knowings of beauty
uncomparable sights,
sounds,
smells,
emotions
a desire that pulls on our heart strings
an understanding of a true home
perfection never attained
until now
within the realm of eternity
gainfully gleeful
a heart fulfilled
brimming with love
praise forever untireable
predestined
accepting this fate
living in the now
yet,
living for eternity
© 2006 TRM
Wednesday, May 31, 2006
Day at the Lake
Ah, the joys of a day off.
Monday, in enjoyment of our freedom that was bought with a huge price, we decided to enjoy a day on the lake at Jordan Lake. Originally, the plan was to enjoy Seaforth. However, we soon learned that Memorial Day is the busiest day of the year at Jordan Lake. We learned the hard way when we arrived around 11:15 and there was a plethora of cones and a park ranger yelling at us to move on and that it was full.
Thankfully, I had done my research ahead of time and the other option we had was the Ebenezer Church Recreation Area. We arrived before they closed that area and thus the search for a picnic table with a grill ensued. We searched all around the swim area to no avail and then moved on to Picnic Area B, the closest area to the swimming hole and just a trail away from enjoying the fairly reasonably warm waters of the Lake.
Finding the table wasn't a matter of luck. In fact, through careful observation and a polite inquiry, we were able to take a very nice table and grill near the parking lot and trail. You see, there were a couple of bikers (not motorcyclers) taking a breather at this table. I noticed that they didn't have any picnic equipment, so asked them if they were planning on veging out at that table for the afternoon, to which they responded that they were merely on a break and in fact, "saving the table for us!" LOL.
After enjoying some lovely grilled hotdogs provided by and grilled by my wonderful parents, we decided to hit the "beach." The beach was actually quite crowded and the dynamic population was quite different from ten years ago. However, us young people decided to take a swim.
We mostly goofed around on the floating barrier and played monkey in the middle with a Frisbee. That was quite interesting as many of us are quite competitive. The mere idea of being called a monkey wasn't as appealing either. Gracefully, we managed not to bang up anybody with our "precise" throwing ability, even with a few close calls. A few of us also decided to show off our swimming ability by swimming outside of the barrier to the floating buoy.
After relaxing in the shade for a bit, we enjoyed each other's company and then headed home for the day.
Ah, the beauty of recreation. Just remember to check yourself for ticks (I had none) and wear sunscreen! Oh, and get there early, as you never know when you might be yelled at by a park ranger to go away.
Monday, in enjoyment of our freedom that was bought with a huge price, we decided to enjoy a day on the lake at Jordan Lake. Originally, the plan was to enjoy Seaforth. However, we soon learned that Memorial Day is the busiest day of the year at Jordan Lake. We learned the hard way when we arrived around 11:15 and there was a plethora of cones and a park ranger yelling at us to move on and that it was full.
Thankfully, I had done my research ahead of time and the other option we had was the Ebenezer Church Recreation Area. We arrived before they closed that area and thus the search for a picnic table with a grill ensued. We searched all around the swim area to no avail and then moved on to Picnic Area B, the closest area to the swimming hole and just a trail away from enjoying the fairly reasonably warm waters of the Lake.
Finding the table wasn't a matter of luck. In fact, through careful observation and a polite inquiry, we were able to take a very nice table and grill near the parking lot and trail. You see, there were a couple of bikers (not motorcyclers) taking a breather at this table. I noticed that they didn't have any picnic equipment, so asked them if they were planning on veging out at that table for the afternoon, to which they responded that they were merely on a break and in fact, "saving the table for us!" LOL.
After enjoying some lovely grilled hotdogs provided by and grilled by my wonderful parents, we decided to hit the "beach." The beach was actually quite crowded and the dynamic population was quite different from ten years ago. However, us young people decided to take a swim.
We mostly goofed around on the floating barrier and played monkey in the middle with a Frisbee. That was quite interesting as many of us are quite competitive. The mere idea of being called a monkey wasn't as appealing either. Gracefully, we managed not to bang up anybody with our "precise" throwing ability, even with a few close calls. A few of us also decided to show off our swimming ability by swimming outside of the barrier to the floating buoy.
After relaxing in the shade for a bit, we enjoyed each other's company and then headed home for the day.
Ah, the beauty of recreation. Just remember to check yourself for ticks (I had none) and wear sunscreen! Oh, and get there early, as you never know when you might be yelled at by a park ranger to go away.
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
World Turtle Day
May 23 was World Turtle Day, a day established as an effort to protect the number of turtle species that have become critically endangered due to their popularity in the food and traditional medicine trade.
Red Earred Slider
Red Earred Sliders
Red Earred Sliders
Mom and Babies
Baby Eygptian Tortoises
Baby Eygptian Tortoise
Flower Box Turtles
Flower Box Turtles
Many species of turtles are critically endangered. We need to do our part in our own environments to help preserve the turtle population. It is especially important to remember the aquatic/marine turtles. Most of them are on the endangered list or have been.
Please be aware of what you throw away. Cut up 6 pack rings (holders), don't litter, do not tamper with egg nesting sites, point lights away from beach. Many die from suffocation of plastic bags, or as babies heading in the wrong direction (because they look to the light reflected from the ocean) and get eaten by predators.
Personally, I stop whenever I see a turtle in the road. Only do that if it is safe.
Thank you for your concern about these unique and interesting creatures. I care a lot about them because I have 3 who live with me. You should meet them sometime!
**Pictures from AP
Tuesday, May 23, 2006
Showers
May showers for June weddings!
I am reliving last year's enjoyment of showers. You see, Jen, one of my bestest friends in the whole wide world, is getting married next month. As her matron of honor and because Beth is not here in the US, I am helping her out as a wing woman. Not that I wouldn't should Beth be here, but I am enjoying the time I get to spend with her.
It is so exciting to see her receiving the items she needs to build a home. She has picked out the most lovely dishes. She also has very lovely china. I, myself, didn't register for china because I wanted to get all my place settings for my dishes, which were $30 a place setting. I ended up getting all of them because of that. Plus, we wouldn't have had storage or constant use for them anyways.
I giggled at a few of the things she and Ben registered for. For example, this fat chef stuff. It is cute and very frenchish, or at least reminds me of France. I feel like breaking into a whole French accent talking about it.
The other cute thing was this little novelty egg pan. I had to get the matching spatula for her.
I have known Jen for a little over 22 years. Yes, that would be her entire life. I have always been the oldest out of our trio which includes Beth. Beth is my age, except that her birthday falls in November, so that put her a year behind me in school because my birthday is in August.
I always felt like we were the sisters we never had. We all have brothers, but no sisters. That is probably why we all got so close.
We have some great memories from over the years. Some include spiders, roomieing, hanging out, and church stuff. I just know that we will all be like that through the end of our lives. I can imagine it now... rocking on a porch, recalling the good ole days.
Showers are fun and tiring. I hosted the one she had on Saturday. We played games and had good food. I also went to the one she had in Greensboro on Sunday. That one was fun, too. We took a lot of pictures and enjoyed a lovely chocolate fountain.
There is only one thing I wish during all of these showers and wedding stuff. I wish that Beth was here. The time is counting down, though, for her coming back from Africa to visit. Yay for June 7th!
All in all, Jen getting married excites me and scares me. It excites me because she is going to be so happy, Ben is an awesome man, and they are in love. It scares me because we are getting old. At least old enough to be married women!
I am reliving last year's enjoyment of showers. You see, Jen, one of my bestest friends in the whole wide world, is getting married next month. As her matron of honor and because Beth is not here in the US, I am helping her out as a wing woman. Not that I wouldn't should Beth be here, but I am enjoying the time I get to spend with her.
It is so exciting to see her receiving the items she needs to build a home. She has picked out the most lovely dishes. She also has very lovely china. I, myself, didn't register for china because I wanted to get all my place settings for my dishes, which were $30 a place setting. I ended up getting all of them because of that. Plus, we wouldn't have had storage or constant use for them anyways.
I giggled at a few of the things she and Ben registered for. For example, this fat chef stuff. It is cute and very frenchish, or at least reminds me of France. I feel like breaking into a whole French accent talking about it.
The other cute thing was this little novelty egg pan. I had to get the matching spatula for her.
I have known Jen for a little over 22 years. Yes, that would be her entire life. I have always been the oldest out of our trio which includes Beth. Beth is my age, except that her birthday falls in November, so that put her a year behind me in school because my birthday is in August.
I always felt like we were the sisters we never had. We all have brothers, but no sisters. That is probably why we all got so close.
We have some great memories from over the years. Some include spiders, roomieing, hanging out, and church stuff. I just know that we will all be like that through the end of our lives. I can imagine it now... rocking on a porch, recalling the good ole days.
Showers are fun and tiring. I hosted the one she had on Saturday. We played games and had good food. I also went to the one she had in Greensboro on Sunday. That one was fun, too. We took a lot of pictures and enjoyed a lovely chocolate fountain.
There is only one thing I wish during all of these showers and wedding stuff. I wish that Beth was here. The time is counting down, though, for her coming back from Africa to visit. Yay for June 7th!
All in all, Jen getting married excites me and scares me. It excites me because she is going to be so happy, Ben is an awesome man, and they are in love. It scares me because we are getting old. At least old enough to be married women!
Saturday, May 13, 2006
Class of 2006
Congratulations Class of 2006! I am so proud of you! I would like to make a special mention of a few people who have suceeded at crossing yet another excellent mark in their lives (cue Pop and Circumstance):
Thomas- my brother, whom I love. Finally! Only 5 years! I am very proud of you.
Jennifer- one of my best friends. I can't believe it... this day has finally come (we're getting old!)!
Manny- a good friend. I will miss you deeply as you move to Illinois. Thanks for sharing your Ghanan heritage with us.
Brian- another good friend. I will miss you as you move to Iowa. Congrats and thanks for always sharing your excellent points of view.
Chris- yet another good friend. I will miss you as you go to Japan for a couple of years. I am so excited for you!
To the Booneites:
So, Boone's novelty lasted for awhile and then the cold winds, snow, and low temperatures got on our nerves. Alas, we say we don't/won't miss Boone, but the relationships and all of us being together, we will miss. The beautiful mountains and the parkway never got old. Boone will always be there for our enjoyment when we should visit.
To the Raleighites:
It won't be the same around here without ya. The dynamics of our church will never be as diverse or exciting. Come back to us and visit. There will always be a place for you.
Thomas- my brother, whom I love. Finally! Only 5 years! I am very proud of you.
Jennifer- one of my best friends. I can't believe it... this day has finally come (we're getting old!)!
Manny- a good friend. I will miss you deeply as you move to Illinois. Thanks for sharing your Ghanan heritage with us.
Brian- another good friend. I will miss you as you move to Iowa. Congrats and thanks for always sharing your excellent points of view.
Chris- yet another good friend. I will miss you as you go to Japan for a couple of years. I am so excited for you!
To the Booneites:
So, Boone's novelty lasted for awhile and then the cold winds, snow, and low temperatures got on our nerves. Alas, we say we don't/won't miss Boone, but the relationships and all of us being together, we will miss. The beautiful mountains and the parkway never got old. Boone will always be there for our enjoyment when we should visit.
To the Raleighites:
It won't be the same around here without ya. The dynamics of our church will never be as diverse or exciting. Come back to us and visit. There will always be a place for you.
Wednesday, May 03, 2006
Casting Crowns
I was raising my hands and praising the Lord to this song today on the way to work....
Artist: Casting Crowns
Song: Praise You In This Storm
Album: Lifesong
i was sure by now
that you would have reached down
and wiped our tears away
stepped in and saved the day
but once again, i say "amen", and it's still raining
as the thunder rolls
i barely hear your whisper through the rain
"i'm with you"
and as you mercy falls
i raise my hands and praise the god who gives
and takes away
i'll praise you in this storm
and i will life my hands
for you are who you are
no matter where i am
every tear i've cried
you hold in your hand
you never left my side
and though my heart is torn
i will praise you in this storm
i remember when
i stumbled in the wind
you heard my cry
you raised me up again
my strength is almost gone
how can i carry on
if i can't find you
as the thunder rolls
i barely hear you whisper through the rain
"i'm with you"
and as your mercy falls
i raise my hands and praise the god who gives
and takes away
i lift my eyes unto the hills
where does my help come from?
my help comes from the lord
the maker of heaven and earth
Artist: Casting Crowns
Song: Praise You In This Storm
Album: Lifesong
i was sure by now
that you would have reached down
and wiped our tears away
stepped in and saved the day
but once again, i say "amen", and it's still raining
as the thunder rolls
i barely hear your whisper through the rain
"i'm with you"
and as you mercy falls
i raise my hands and praise the god who gives
and takes away
i'll praise you in this storm
and i will life my hands
for you are who you are
no matter where i am
every tear i've cried
you hold in your hand
you never left my side
and though my heart is torn
i will praise you in this storm
i remember when
i stumbled in the wind
you heard my cry
you raised me up again
my strength is almost gone
how can i carry on
if i can't find you
as the thunder rolls
i barely hear you whisper through the rain
"i'm with you"
and as your mercy falls
i raise my hands and praise the god who gives
and takes away
i lift my eyes unto the hills
where does my help come from?
my help comes from the lord
the maker of heaven and earth
Tuesday, May 02, 2006
Love and Acceptance
This is basically what I am using for my prayer group on Friday night at the Women's Retreat (I'm the leader).
Love and Acceptance
What does this mean?
To me, this means agape love, or love unconditional. To accept one another for their differences while continuing to love them as Christ loves us. Carrying out what God intends in love and acceptance. Sometimes this includes reconciliation between people.
This reminds me of the love I have for my family. No matter how much I may get upset at something they do, they will still be my family. God has blessed me with them, and no matter how hard I try to “disown” or hate them, they are still family!
We should treat our brothers and sisters in Christ the same way. We are all apart of a family, always will be! They are still going to be in Heaven with us anyways. We will have differences in beliefs, but God commands us to accept them (of course, with in the realm of His will, not blatant against the will of God). Be careful not to judge a person’s belief based on personal interpretation. As Christians, we all believe in the same God, right?
Always give someone the benefit of the doubt. This is a very important part of love and acceptance. Assume that they weren’t purposely trying to hurt you. Act in terms of the Golden Rule.
You also must accept yourself, for who you are. Who you are is God’s gift to you, who you become is your gift to God. It starts with accepting yourself. You have unique gifts and abilities that God has blessed you with. Don’t compare yourself with others. God blesses us all in different ways; we must seek out the gifts he has blessed us with and act upon them.
You also must love yourself. This is different from accepting yourself. You can accept yourself but not love yourself. Now, obviously, I don’t mean be vain about loving yourself. If you don’t love yourself, it is going to be hard to love others. If you don’t love yourself, you won’t take care of your needs including physical, spiritual, mental, or emotional. You may end up abusing yourself in one or more of those areas. For example, if you don’t love your outward appearance you may starve yourself or over-eat. You may hate yourself for the sins you have done, and feel that you don’t deserve God’s forgiveness. Most of this stems off of a lack of self love. It is okay to love yourself for who God created you to be.
Few verses:
Why should we accept ourselves?
Psalm 139:13-16
13 For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb.
14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
15 My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,
16 your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.
What will loving and accepting ourselves prepare us for?
Isaiah 6:8
8 Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" And I said, "Here am I. Send me!"
Why should we love each other?
Ephesians 5:1-2
1Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children 2and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
Romans 12:9-10
9Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.
Why should we accept one another?
Romans 15:5-7
5May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, 6so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
7Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.
Part of accepting one another is:
Matthew 7:1-2
1"Do not judge, or you too will be judged. 2For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.
Overall of this:
John 3:16
16"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
Love and Acceptance
What does this mean?
To me, this means agape love, or love unconditional. To accept one another for their differences while continuing to love them as Christ loves us. Carrying out what God intends in love and acceptance. Sometimes this includes reconciliation between people.
This reminds me of the love I have for my family. No matter how much I may get upset at something they do, they will still be my family. God has blessed me with them, and no matter how hard I try to “disown” or hate them, they are still family!
We should treat our brothers and sisters in Christ the same way. We are all apart of a family, always will be! They are still going to be in Heaven with us anyways. We will have differences in beliefs, but God commands us to accept them (of course, with in the realm of His will, not blatant against the will of God). Be careful not to judge a person’s belief based on personal interpretation. As Christians, we all believe in the same God, right?
Always give someone the benefit of the doubt. This is a very important part of love and acceptance. Assume that they weren’t purposely trying to hurt you. Act in terms of the Golden Rule.
You also must accept yourself, for who you are. Who you are is God’s gift to you, who you become is your gift to God. It starts with accepting yourself. You have unique gifts and abilities that God has blessed you with. Don’t compare yourself with others. God blesses us all in different ways; we must seek out the gifts he has blessed us with and act upon them.
You also must love yourself. This is different from accepting yourself. You can accept yourself but not love yourself. Now, obviously, I don’t mean be vain about loving yourself. If you don’t love yourself, it is going to be hard to love others. If you don’t love yourself, you won’t take care of your needs including physical, spiritual, mental, or emotional. You may end up abusing yourself in one or more of those areas. For example, if you don’t love your outward appearance you may starve yourself or over-eat. You may hate yourself for the sins you have done, and feel that you don’t deserve God’s forgiveness. Most of this stems off of a lack of self love. It is okay to love yourself for who God created you to be.
Few verses:
Why should we accept ourselves?
Psalm 139:13-16
13 For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb.
14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
15 My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,
16 your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.
What will loving and accepting ourselves prepare us for?
Isaiah 6:8
8 Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" And I said, "Here am I. Send me!"
Why should we love each other?
Ephesians 5:1-2
1Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children 2and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
Romans 12:9-10
9Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.
Why should we accept one another?
Romans 15:5-7
5May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, 6so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
7Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.
Part of accepting one another is:
Matthew 7:1-2
1"Do not judge, or you too will be judged. 2For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.
Overall of this:
John 3:16
16"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
Thursday, April 27, 2006
In Memory Of....
Pedro Gasperin Quijano
He will be missed for his fun conversations (in Spanish & English), witty humor, willingness to work on his English, his visits to the office, mechanic abilities, and gift in guitar playing.
Here is the story of how he died:
Officers were called to the Circle K convenience store on North Miami Boulevard at 2:56 a.m. on Tuesday [4/25/06]. When they arrived, they found Pedro Pablo Josue Gasperin Quijano, 44, who had been shot on Fairfax Street. He was taken to Duke University Hospital, where he was pronounced dead a short time later.
Quijano and a friend were driving home from work when a large, light-colored car came up behind them on Fairfax Street and the driver flashed the lights, according to investigators. The victim's friend pulled over on Fairfax Street near Landon Drive.
A female approached the driver's side of the victim's car while a male armed with a shotgun approached the passenger door, according to investigators. The male fired a round from the shotgun through the passenger window, striking the passenger. The driver was not injured.
The driver drove a few blocks to Circle K to call 911. The female is described as an African American woman with a light complexion and blond streaks in her hair. There is no description of the male. Investigators have no motive in the case.
This is a senseless killing. Who ever is responsible deserves to be punished. I just hope they catch this person and serve him the justice that is earned. That goes the same for the woman.
The moral of this story is that it is not safe to pull over in Durham, I mean, to people who are flashing their lights at you. I have heard that that is a "gang" type thing, so don't do it.
Pedro was a nice person. He always wanted to help people. Unfortunately, he suffered for his Good Samaritan tendency this time. If you have a tendency to help people out there, continue doing so, but be careful and safe, especially young ladies who are alone. Be smart.
Even though he had no family that we know of, we, as his friends, will remember him.
All in all, Pedro, Rest In Peace, man. You will be missed.
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Pro-Life & Birth Control
So, I am going to post something controversial on my blog. That's kind of a first. I tend to avoid controversial subjects because I don't want to hurt anyone's feelings (a little bit of my sanguine coming out) nor do I want to hurt any of my friendships with my point of view.
Disclaimer: Be aware that I am going to express my opinion, but do NOT take it as an attack on your views should you disagree with my thoughts/opinions. I am simply writing what I feel. I also will not judge someone who has a different view point from me (or someone who has the same) and you should not either as that is commanded in God's word.
Pro-Life and Using Birth Control
Lately, I have been reading a lot about people who believe that if you are pro-life, it is hypocritical to take birth control pills. I know of several people who have posted thoughts on this subject, including the Biblical Womanhood Blog, that referenced this Tract. Now, I am not exactly sure which point of view the wonderful Christian Lady who blogs there takes (though I am fairly certain), and I am not specifically attacking her or anyone for that matter; I am just stating my thoughts on the matter!
I am a self professed Pro-Life person, but I am not sure what view to take when the mother's life is in danger or it involves a rape case. I won't really express what I think about those situations here and now due to the fact I would probably have to write a whole research paper on it. To sum it up, in those cases, it is between them and God.
Anyways, I do not like abortion in general. I think that you are taking the life of a child in those cases, killing something that does have a soul and that God formed in the womb. I, personally, would not get an abortion because I accidentally got pregnant by my husband or didn't want the baby, especially being a married woman.
I am, however, a self professed practicer of birth control. I take the birth control pill and almost all of my married friends do the same. I started the birth control pill right after I started college. Now, I know what some might think, but sex was not the reason. You see, I needed some way to cut down on the pain and issues I had surrounding my monthly period (sorry if this is graphic or TMI).
I have continued taking the birth control, especially now that I am married. I do not feel like I am killing any babies or going against God in this. Truly, my husband and I are definitely not ready to have babies at this point (personally, timely, or financially), and are unsure if that is a part of God's plan for us. I do know, however, that if God intends for us to have a baby, we will have one no matter how hard we try not to (i.e. birth control pills, condoms, etc).
Birth control pills merely prevent the fertilization of an egg by preventing ovulation. In essence, you are preserving your eggs, or future children of God. I like to think of it as saving them for later should having children be His will. I am not rationalizing this from a physical or scientific point of view, merely what my conscious tells me through my spiritual beliefs.
God is divine and His will is evident in everything. I am not intending to go against God and prevent any future followers or people of faith. I think God does allow us choice as long as it is in accordance to His will.
What is His will for my husband and I? Who knows? I do have several friends who got pregnant on the birth control pill. Again, evidence that God will bless us despite the measures we take. Do I think children are a blessing? Sure.
I do know that God has a lot in store for us according to His will. Does that include children? Right now, we are being led down the direction that does not include them. I still do my part with children as I try to be an example to them in my spiritual walk, through volunteering at church in the nursery, and mentoring.
God has used many child-less couples, whether by choice or not. I know of one specific couple who's call to ministry would be compromised, in terms of time, should they have children. While it is God's will for some couples to have children and some not to have children, the mere and meager birth control methods will not prevent God's will from coming about.
If I do have children, it will be a blessing. I want, personally, to be able to care for them abundantly in my finances, time, and energy. We will accept what God's will is for us because who can argue with God?
Disclaimer: Be aware that I am going to express my opinion, but do NOT take it as an attack on your views should you disagree with my thoughts/opinions. I am simply writing what I feel. I also will not judge someone who has a different view point from me (or someone who has the same) and you should not either as that is commanded in God's word.
Pro-Life and Using Birth Control
Lately, I have been reading a lot about people who believe that if you are pro-life, it is hypocritical to take birth control pills. I know of several people who have posted thoughts on this subject, including the Biblical Womanhood Blog, that referenced this Tract. Now, I am not exactly sure which point of view the wonderful Christian Lady who blogs there takes (though I am fairly certain), and I am not specifically attacking her or anyone for that matter; I am just stating my thoughts on the matter!
I am a self professed Pro-Life person, but I am not sure what view to take when the mother's life is in danger or it involves a rape case. I won't really express what I think about those situations here and now due to the fact I would probably have to write a whole research paper on it. To sum it up, in those cases, it is between them and God.
Anyways, I do not like abortion in general. I think that you are taking the life of a child in those cases, killing something that does have a soul and that God formed in the womb. I, personally, would not get an abortion because I accidentally got pregnant by my husband or didn't want the baby, especially being a married woman.
I am, however, a self professed practicer of birth control. I take the birth control pill and almost all of my married friends do the same. I started the birth control pill right after I started college. Now, I know what some might think, but sex was not the reason. You see, I needed some way to cut down on the pain and issues I had surrounding my monthly period (sorry if this is graphic or TMI).
I have continued taking the birth control, especially now that I am married. I do not feel like I am killing any babies or going against God in this. Truly, my husband and I are definitely not ready to have babies at this point (personally, timely, or financially), and are unsure if that is a part of God's plan for us. I do know, however, that if God intends for us to have a baby, we will have one no matter how hard we try not to (i.e. birth control pills, condoms, etc).
Birth control pills merely prevent the fertilization of an egg by preventing ovulation. In essence, you are preserving your eggs, or future children of God. I like to think of it as saving them for later should having children be His will. I am not rationalizing this from a physical or scientific point of view, merely what my conscious tells me through my spiritual beliefs.
God is divine and His will is evident in everything. I am not intending to go against God and prevent any future followers or people of faith. I think God does allow us choice as long as it is in accordance to His will.
What is His will for my husband and I? Who knows? I do have several friends who got pregnant on the birth control pill. Again, evidence that God will bless us despite the measures we take. Do I think children are a blessing? Sure.
I do know that God has a lot in store for us according to His will. Does that include children? Right now, we are being led down the direction that does not include them. I still do my part with children as I try to be an example to them in my spiritual walk, through volunteering at church in the nursery, and mentoring.
God has used many child-less couples, whether by choice or not. I know of one specific couple who's call to ministry would be compromised, in terms of time, should they have children. While it is God's will for some couples to have children and some not to have children, the mere and meager birth control methods will not prevent God's will from coming about.
If I do have children, it will be a blessing. I want, personally, to be able to care for them abundantly in my finances, time, and energy. We will accept what God's will is for us because who can argue with God?
Monday, April 24, 2006
Another hit for Grandma...
So it begins....
Grandma has an appointment with the doctor today. With the way things have progressed over the last couple of weeks with her ALS, the doctor is going to tell her that she can't live by herself anymore. Whoa... I guess I didn't expect it to be so soon.
The timeline is... she will live on her own through Thomas' graduation next week. Then, she will be flying down to Atlanta anyways. After that trip, Aunt Marianne is going to drive her back up to Fayetteville to get some stuff and she will stay in Atlanta for a few months. Then, she will move in with my parents sometime this summer.
The expectation is for her to live upstairs, but that Dad and/or Tim would have to carry her up and down at night and in the morning.
It's going to get interesting, but the timeline is right. We knew that the next 6 months would be critical, so here it starts.
I guess this means that the "creature" is moving in with my parents. MuWahahaha.
Well, seriously though, continue your prayers as my family transitions.
Grandma has an appointment with the doctor today. With the way things have progressed over the last couple of weeks with her ALS, the doctor is going to tell her that she can't live by herself anymore. Whoa... I guess I didn't expect it to be so soon.
The timeline is... she will live on her own through Thomas' graduation next week. Then, she will be flying down to Atlanta anyways. After that trip, Aunt Marianne is going to drive her back up to Fayetteville to get some stuff and she will stay in Atlanta for a few months. Then, she will move in with my parents sometime this summer.
The expectation is for her to live upstairs, but that Dad and/or Tim would have to carry her up and down at night and in the morning.
It's going to get interesting, but the timeline is right. We knew that the next 6 months would be critical, so here it starts.
I guess this means that the "creature" is moving in with my parents. MuWahahaha.
Well, seriously though, continue your prayers as my family transitions.
Tuesday, April 18, 2006
THE INTERVIEW WITH GOD
I dreamed I had an interview with God.
“So you would like to interview me?” God asked.
“If you have the time” I said.
God smiled. “My time is eternity.”
“What questions do you have in mind for me?”
“What surprises you most about humankind?”
God answered...
“That they get bored with childhood,
they rush to grow up, and then
long to be children again.”
“That they lose their health to make money...
and then lose their money to restore their health.”
“That by thinking anxiously about the future,
they forget the present,
such that they live in neither
the present nor the future.”
"That they live as if they will never die,
and die as though they had never lived.”
God’s hand took mine
and we were silent for a while.
And then I asked...
“As a parent, what are some of life’s lessons
you want your children to learn?”
“To learn they cannot make
anyone love them. All they can do is
let themselves be loved.”
“To learn that it is not good
to compare themselves to others.”
“To learn to forgive
by practicing forgiveness.”
“To learn that it only takes a few seconds
to open profound wounds in those they love,
and it can take many years to heal them.”
“To learn that a rich person
is not one who has the most,
but is one who needs the least.”
“To learn that there are people
who love them dearly,
but simply have not yet learned
how to express or show their feelings.”
“To learn that two people
can look at the same thing
and see it differently.”
“To learn that it is not enough
that they forgive one another,
but they must also forgive themselves.”
"Thank you for your time," I said humbly.
"Is there anything else you would
like your children to know?"
God smiled and said,
“Just know that I am here...
always.”
-author unknown
Thursday, April 13, 2006
My Savior My God
This song really spoke to me this morning on KLove. Just wanted to share it with you....
My Savior My God
Artist: Aaron Shust
Album: Anything Worth Saying
Year: 2005
Title: My Savior My God
I am not skilled to understand
What God has willed, what God has planned
I only know at his right hand
Stands one who is my savior
I take him at his word and deed
Christ died to save me this I read
And in my heart I find a need
For him to be my savior
That he would leave his place on high
And come for sinful man to die
You count it strange, so once did I
Before I knew my savior
My savior loves, my savior lives
My savior's always there for me
My God he was, my God he is
My God he's always gonna be
Yes, living, dying; let me bring
My strength, my solace from this spring
That he who lives to be my king
Once died to be my savior
That he would leave his place on high
And come for sinful man to die
You count it strange, so once did I
Before I knew my savior
My savior loves, my savior lives
My savior's always there for me
My God he was, My God he is
My God he's always gonna be
My Savior My God
Artist: Aaron Shust
Album: Anything Worth Saying
Year: 2005
Title: My Savior My God
I am not skilled to understand
What God has willed, what God has planned
I only know at his right hand
Stands one who is my savior
I take him at his word and deed
Christ died to save me this I read
And in my heart I find a need
For him to be my savior
That he would leave his place on high
And come for sinful man to die
You count it strange, so once did I
Before I knew my savior
My savior loves, my savior lives
My savior's always there for me
My God he was, my God he is
My God he's always gonna be
Yes, living, dying; let me bring
My strength, my solace from this spring
That he who lives to be my king
Once died to be my savior
That he would leave his place on high
And come for sinful man to die
You count it strange, so once did I
Before I knew my savior
My savior loves, my savior lives
My savior's always there for me
My God he was, My God he is
My God he's always gonna be
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
ALS is Progressing....
As I was chatting with my Dad tonight he passed on some discouraging news about my Grandmother. Most of you know that she was diagnosed with ALS back in January. Well, it seems to be progressing quite fast (though it could have been present for awhile and she just kept it to herself). Last week, I went with her to Duke to her doctor's appointment and was well-informed (though unsure I was ready for all of that) about the decisions she would have to make for her care. She was mainly having difficulty swallowing (it would take her three or so big gulping reflexes to get one tiny sip down) and now she is having difficulty breathing (which wasn't like that last week). She has pretty much accepted her predicament and isn't hopeful herself. Her emotions are very much evident in that. My Dad and I especially feel that she may not be around for much longer, and she will definitely be needing more care when she returns from Atlanta (where she is with my Aunt right now). It may even come to her moving in with my parents by the end of next week or early the following week. This is disheartening and sad for me and my family right now. She is my only remaining grandparent.
We would appreciate prayers for God's will in this. I know that most of us don't want her to suffer even though we selfishly desire for her to stay around. Please also pray that she has made the right decisions in her spiritual life as well and that all is straight with her and God. Pray for her comfort during this time and for our strength (especially when we are around her). Thank you so much!
Feel free to pass this along to the other prayer warriors you might know!
We would appreciate prayers for God's will in this. I know that most of us don't want her to suffer even though we selfishly desire for her to stay around. Please also pray that she has made the right decisions in her spiritual life as well and that all is straight with her and God. Pray for her comfort during this time and for our strength (especially when we are around her). Thank you so much!
Feel free to pass this along to the other prayer warriors you might know!
Squirrel
Looks like one of Thomas' operatives is taking a break! Just had to post this one for you, Thomas. Plus he's just so cute!
Source: Booneweather.com
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
Everything I need to know about life...
... I learned from Noah's Ark.
One: Don't miss the boat.
Two: Remember that we are all in the same boat.
Three: Plan ahead. It wasn't raining when the Noah built the ark.
Four: Stay fit. When you're 600 years old, someone may ask you to do something really big.
Five: Don't listen to critics; just get on with the job that needs to be done.
Six: Build your future on high ground.
Seven: For safety, travel in pairs.
Eight: Speed isn't always an advantage. The snails were on board with the cheetahs.
Nine: When you're stressed, float a while.
Ten: Remember...the ark was built by amateurs; the Titanic by professionals.
Eleven: No matter the storm, when you are with God there's always a rainbow waiting.
One: Don't miss the boat.
Two: Remember that we are all in the same boat.
Three: Plan ahead. It wasn't raining when the Noah built the ark.
Four: Stay fit. When you're 600 years old, someone may ask you to do something really big.
Five: Don't listen to critics; just get on with the job that needs to be done.
Six: Build your future on high ground.
Seven: For safety, travel in pairs.
Eight: Speed isn't always an advantage. The snails were on board with the cheetahs.
Nine: When you're stressed, float a while.
Ten: Remember...the ark was built by amateurs; the Titanic by professionals.
Eleven: No matter the storm, when you are with God there's always a rainbow waiting.
Quotes from Spring Leadership
"Success is a Planned event."
"Buy back your life!"
"Success will not attack you! You gotta work it. Success is an opportunity not a guarantee."
"Efficiency: doing the job right;
Effectiveness: doing the right job."
"Be who you are because everyone else is taken. Don't question yourself or God."
"Get sold out and dedicated to your dream. Be willing to pay the price."
"Even when things are down, it'll be ok and we can do it!"
"The biggest leaders are the biggest servers."
"Be a warrior, not a worrier."
"You're in life where you are because of the decisions you've made."
"Are you waiting for something to happen or are you making them happen?
Are you passive or proactive?
Are you running from something or to something?
Are you pressured by the will of others or are you making a name for yourself?
Are you willing to deal with the pain of discipline or the pain of regret?
Are you standing down or are you standing up for something?
Do you want what I have or what I know?
Are you serving to get something in return or to sow something eternal?
Do you run the race just to say you did or to win?"
"Sometimes you just have to walk away from the crowd."
"Parasites want what's in your hand, but proteges want what's in you (heart)."
"There is no negociating the price of success."
"Don't compare yourself to other people; just try your hardest."
"Edification is not to be hoarded; it is to be given away."
"Follow principles, not people."
"We are not limited by money, fear, or doubt; we are limited by the poverty of our dream."
"When the dream is big enough, the facts don't count."
"If the leader lacks courage, the team will lack commitment."
"Courage and cowardice are both contagious."
"Courage is not the lack of fear, but the ability to face fear."
"Destiny is never chance; it's a choice."
"The capacity of a product is not determined by the consumer but by the manufacturer."
"The middle of the journey is where you have to battle it out."
"Don't let negativity deter you. Don't focus on the hurdles; focus on the solution."
"The battlefield of the mind is your greatest struggle."
"Learn to laugh at yourself!"
"When you start to succeed, you put pressure on the people who are staying the same."
"Losers are intimidated by leaders. Winners are attracted to leaders."
"Everything in life is about decisions."
"Build a life worthy of living."
"Respect is earned, not for tenure, but for living your life for the right set of principles."
"If you are not living on the edge, you're taking up too much space!"
"Success is not a destination; it is a journey."
"Do not have a fear of success."
"[I] will always sow [my] seed on good soil so that it comes back in abundance."
"[I've] got seeds of greatness planted in [me] by God."
"God can use me right where I am."
"Give control up to God."
"It's one thing to have knowledge; it's another to apply it."
"Go early, stay late! Get mentored!"
"People are attracted to people who know where they are going."
"Winners find ways."
"Action alone doesn't produce results."
"Don't take ownership of a potential failure that does not belong to you."
"This is [MY] time!"
"The difference between an expectation and a wish is preparation."
"Don't just think in the moment. Think in the process, not the results. The process will yield the results."
"Get passionate about achieving your goal!"
"Buy back your life!"
"Success will not attack you! You gotta work it. Success is an opportunity not a guarantee."
"Efficiency: doing the job right;
Effectiveness: doing the right job."
"Be who you are because everyone else is taken. Don't question yourself or God."
"Get sold out and dedicated to your dream. Be willing to pay the price."
"Even when things are down, it'll be ok and we can do it!"
"The biggest leaders are the biggest servers."
"Be a warrior, not a worrier."
"You're in life where you are because of the decisions you've made."
"Are you waiting for something to happen or are you making them happen?
Are you passive or proactive?
Are you running from something or to something?
Are you pressured by the will of others or are you making a name for yourself?
Are you willing to deal with the pain of discipline or the pain of regret?
Are you standing down or are you standing up for something?
Do you want what I have or what I know?
Are you serving to get something in return or to sow something eternal?
Do you run the race just to say you did or to win?"
"Sometimes you just have to walk away from the crowd."
"Parasites want what's in your hand, but proteges want what's in you (heart)."
"There is no negociating the price of success."
"Don't compare yourself to other people; just try your hardest."
"Edification is not to be hoarded; it is to be given away."
"Follow principles, not people."
"We are not limited by money, fear, or doubt; we are limited by the poverty of our dream."
"When the dream is big enough, the facts don't count."
"If the leader lacks courage, the team will lack commitment."
"Courage and cowardice are both contagious."
"Courage is not the lack of fear, but the ability to face fear."
"Destiny is never chance; it's a choice."
"The capacity of a product is not determined by the consumer but by the manufacturer."
"The middle of the journey is where you have to battle it out."
"Don't let negativity deter you. Don't focus on the hurdles; focus on the solution."
"The battlefield of the mind is your greatest struggle."
"Learn to laugh at yourself!"
"When you start to succeed, you put pressure on the people who are staying the same."
"Losers are intimidated by leaders. Winners are attracted to leaders."
"Everything in life is about decisions."
"Build a life worthy of living."
"Respect is earned, not for tenure, but for living your life for the right set of principles."
"If you are not living on the edge, you're taking up too much space!"
"Success is not a destination; it is a journey."
"Do not have a fear of success."
"[I] will always sow [my] seed on good soil so that it comes back in abundance."
"[I've] got seeds of greatness planted in [me] by God."
"God can use me right where I am."
"Give control up to God."
"It's one thing to have knowledge; it's another to apply it."
"Go early, stay late! Get mentored!"
"People are attracted to people who know where they are going."
"Winners find ways."
"Action alone doesn't produce results."
"Don't take ownership of a potential failure that does not belong to you."
"This is [MY] time!"
"The difference between an expectation and a wish is preparation."
"Don't just think in the moment. Think in the process, not the results. The process will yield the results."
"Get passionate about achieving your goal!"
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