There was a time "when WE were single," as DaHubby and I refer to it, when the division of household chores was different. In the pre-Vikings era, I worked part-time. We initially agree to a marital division of labor that included DaHubby taking care of the bathroom and doing dishes/filling the dishwasher (my two least favorite chores, neither of which he minded) and I would take care of everything else inside the house.
Times, jobs, priorities, and the size of our family changed over the years but my dislike of cleaning the bathroom and doing dishes remains. Yet, it's fallen to me to do them. As a result, one of the things I miss most from our home in Michigan is the dishwasher. We are renting still here in Illinois and neither of the two places we've stayed had a dishwasher. So, I not only dislike doing dishes but I generally dislike doing them at least twice a day by hand.
Now, I've tried to go the high-minded route...DaHubby installed speakers near the sink so I could listen to music to distract me. I have Bible verses posted so I can focus on God's word instead of the dirty dish water. I've tried to include the Vikings but, at least at this point, it is simply more work to go back and re-rinse the half-cup of dish soap they use. We did some serious downsizing of plates, cups, and cookware to lower the sheer quantity that accumulates but the sink stills seems always full. Nothing has really helped. And, even if we COULD afford a new dishwasher, we just didn't have the room in this rental kitchen for a built-in version and a portable seemed prohibitively expensive.
Until this week.
And, these are the types of things that make me SO glad DaHubby is as handy as he is!
Someone where DaHubby works was upgrading their kitchen and was offering the old, but still very usable, built-in dishwasher...for FREE!
And, within the next month, using plans similar to these, guess who is gonna be the new owner of a formerly built-in, now converted to a portable, including a brand-new custom Hubby-made cabinet dishwasher?
ME!!!
*big smile*
Thank you, God!! Thank you, Lord, also for a thrifty, astute, and handy hubby! :)
Showing posts with label praise. Show all posts
Showing posts with label praise. Show all posts
Thursday, August 2, 2012
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Have you thanked a teacher lately?
I've been doing research for a gift for Flicka's kindergarten teacher this week because Teacher Appreciation week starts next Monday.
I've always been jealous how elementary teachers seem to benefit more from this than us poor, neglected secondary teachers. LOL But, I also remember vividly how much work teaching is and I want Mrs. S to know how much Flicka and her parents appreciate all the work she does.
I've come across so many cute ideas, I made a list of links to share:
Family Fun magazine has craft links for gifts.
Here's a list of thank you's using food and cute sayings (like giving Pop Rocks and saying "You ROCK!" That kind of thing.)
About.com had an article about how to do a small little gift all 5 days next week.
This site is WAY beyond my crafty level but the ideas are really cute.
I like this long list of frugal gifts at betterbudgeting.com too.
And, here are some random suggestions from actual teachers.
Finally, here is a list of suggestions from the NEA - the national teachers' organization
I've always been jealous how elementary teachers seem to benefit more from this than us poor, neglected secondary teachers. LOL But, I also remember vividly how much work teaching is and I want Mrs. S to know how much Flicka and her parents appreciate all the work she does.
I've come across so many cute ideas, I made a list of links to share:
Family Fun magazine has craft links for gifts.
Here's a list of thank you's using food and cute sayings (like giving Pop Rocks and saying "You ROCK!" That kind of thing.)
About.com had an article about how to do a small little gift all 5 days next week.
This site is WAY beyond my crafty level but the ideas are really cute.
I like this long list of frugal gifts at betterbudgeting.com too.
And, here are some random suggestions from actual teachers.
Finally, here is a list of suggestions from the NEA - the national teachers' organization
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Thursday Thanks Tank
My thanks tank has been filled in a particular fashion this week...
Without much fanfare yet carefully with much consideration, thought, discussion, and prayer, we're currently not attending church where we have been for the last six years. There are a number of reasons which I won't go into here.
Over the summer we made the transition to a church a few blocks away which does not share all the doctrine and beliefs we're used to but is similar in many ways. The messages are wonderful, relevant, and full of the Word. The children's ministry is large, consistent, and well-staffed. The music is similar and well-performed. And, from what we've seen, it's a place we'll be able to be fed for a while while we ride out this last crazy year of DaHubby's schooling and see where God leads from there.
However, having come from a relatively small church, we miss the personal connections. And, we both miss participating in the music. While DaHubby still isn't able to do so, I miss singing so much more than I thought I would. I've spent more amazing time feeling God's presence and power when I'm singing than any other time in my life right now...and I need it badly right now.
So, I stepped out...DEFINITELY in faith. LOL I'm still timid about my singing publicly (after being told in high school I couldn't carry a tune) but this comparatively HUGE church has a choir. And, I showed up for practice last night. The music pastor and many of the members welcomed me warmly and we got down to business.
And, then I had what was is probably the best 45 minutes I've had in weeks! Last night's practice filled up places that were getting dry and cracking in my soul. It filled up my tank deeply. Participating in music, in a team setting (instead of a lead singer like I was before), singing praise and worship music...my version of heaven right now!
Finally, this new church in which we're still finding our way and our place is apparently thinking about gettin' a little more Pentecostal in their worship! LOL Well, that's JUST fine with me because this is the song I'm learning for September 13th services:
For more TTT, stop by Pam's place.
Without much fanfare yet carefully with much consideration, thought, discussion, and prayer, we're currently not attending church where we have been for the last six years. There are a number of reasons which I won't go into here.
Over the summer we made the transition to a church a few blocks away which does not share all the doctrine and beliefs we're used to but is similar in many ways. The messages are wonderful, relevant, and full of the Word. The children's ministry is large, consistent, and well-staffed. The music is similar and well-performed. And, from what we've seen, it's a place we'll be able to be fed for a while while we ride out this last crazy year of DaHubby's schooling and see where God leads from there.
However, having come from a relatively small church, we miss the personal connections. And, we both miss participating in the music. While DaHubby still isn't able to do so, I miss singing so much more than I thought I would. I've spent more amazing time feeling God's presence and power when I'm singing than any other time in my life right now...and I need it badly right now.
So, I stepped out...DEFINITELY in faith. LOL I'm still timid about my singing publicly (after being told in high school I couldn't carry a tune) but this comparatively HUGE church has a choir. And, I showed up for practice last night. The music pastor and many of the members welcomed me warmly and we got down to business.
And, then I had what was is probably the best 45 minutes I've had in weeks! Last night's practice filled up places that were getting dry and cracking in my soul. It filled up my tank deeply. Participating in music, in a team setting (instead of a lead singer like I was before), singing praise and worship music...my version of heaven right now!
Finally, this new church in which we're still finding our way and our place is apparently thinking about gettin' a little more Pentecostal in their worship! LOL Well, that's JUST fine with me because this is the song I'm learning for September 13th services:
For more TTT, stop by Pam's place.
Monday, June 29, 2009
The Product of Praise - part three
Two weeks ago, our pastor preached a sermon entitle The Product of Praise. I wanted to share the notes with everyone but life's broadsided me lately and I only got part one and part two completed - leaving me just over halfway done.
The sermon centered on the text of 1 Chronicles 4:1 and here it is in NKJV:
The sons of Judah [were] Perez, Hezron, Carmi, Hur, and Shobal.
And, the sons of Judah are sons (and daughters) of PRAISE!
Part one explained the type of praise Perez symbolized (a "breach" thus God is in complete control and stands in that breach to keep the things from doing you harm).
Meanwhile, part two described the type of praise embodied by Hezron (a"shield" thus when the devil tries to flood into your life, the Lord will lift up a standard or a shield) and Carmi (a "harvester" or one who didn't plant but just reaped thus through your praise, God will cause blessing that you don't even deserve to come your way).
Now, what kind of praise to we find in Hur?
Hur means "liberty". This is the liberty found when God removes your past. And, we need to remember that it doesn't matter what anyone says about you - the WORD OF GOD is all that matters. And, you need to understand that prasie is your weapon against those who want you to live as you did before Christ pardoned your sin.
Finally, Shobal means "wandered, traveler, pioneer." One must find God's peace with your moving circumstances...and find that right peace at the right time. There is POWER in your praise and praise will lift you out of and above your circumstances.
So, I'm still trying to remember...you gotta praise your way out! In the midst of your circumstance, the the midst of your confusion, in the midst of your crisis, you have to give God praise!
The sermon centered on the text of 1 Chronicles 4:1 and here it is in NKJV:
The sons of Judah [were] Perez, Hezron, Carmi, Hur, and Shobal.
And, the sons of Judah are sons (and daughters) of PRAISE!
Part one explained the type of praise Perez symbolized (a "breach" thus God is in complete control and stands in that breach to keep the things from doing you harm).
Meanwhile, part two described the type of praise embodied by Hezron (a"shield" thus when the devil tries to flood into your life, the Lord will lift up a standard or a shield) and Carmi (a "harvester" or one who didn't plant but just reaped thus through your praise, God will cause blessing that you don't even deserve to come your way).
Now, what kind of praise to we find in Hur?
Hur means "liberty". This is the liberty found when God removes your past. And, we need to remember that it doesn't matter what anyone says about you - the WORD OF GOD is all that matters. And, you need to understand that prasie is your weapon against those who want you to live as you did before Christ pardoned your sin.
Finally, Shobal means "wandered, traveler, pioneer." One must find God's peace with your moving circumstances...and find that right peace at the right time. There is POWER in your praise and praise will lift you out of and above your circumstances.
So, I'm still trying to remember...you gotta praise your way out! In the midst of your circumstance, the the midst of your confusion, in the midst of your crisis, you have to give God praise!
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
The Product of Praise - part two
(see part one here)
To recap, our pastor preached on "The Product of Praise" last Sunday using 1 Chronicles 4.1:
The sons of Judah [were] Perez, Hezron, Carmi, Hur, and Shobal.
“Judah” according to Easton’s 1897 Bible Dictionary means “praise.” So the sons (and daughters) of Judah are children of PRAISE! And, each one of Judah’s sons embodies a lesson about praise.
I mentioned Perez on Monday.
"Praise is permeated with productive power!"
The next son of Judah is Hezron. Hezron means shut in, surround, or shield. God is our Jehovah Magen - the Lord, our Shield! When the devil tries to flood into your life, the Lord will lift up a standard or a shield. He's declaring war on your behalf, defending you!
"Sometimes you have to praise your way out of the lion's den!" The Lord's got your back so to speak.
And, the third son of Judah is Carmi - which is a vinedresser or harvester. These folks were not farmers who planted, tended, and then reaped their crops. They were simply the ones who harvested what they had not planted.
"Through your praise, God will cause blessing that you don't even deserve to come your way."
To recap, our pastor preached on "The Product of Praise" last Sunday using 1 Chronicles 4.1:
The sons of Judah [were] Perez, Hezron, Carmi, Hur, and Shobal.
“Judah” according to Easton’s 1897 Bible Dictionary means “praise.” So the sons (and daughters) of Judah are children of PRAISE! And, each one of Judah’s sons embodies a lesson about praise.
I mentioned Perez on Monday.
"Praise is permeated with productive power!"
The next son of Judah is Hezron. Hezron means shut in, surround, or shield. God is our Jehovah Magen - the Lord, our Shield! When the devil tries to flood into your life, the Lord will lift up a standard or a shield. He's declaring war on your behalf, defending you!
"Sometimes you have to praise your way out of the lion's den!" The Lord's got your back so to speak.
And, the third son of Judah is Carmi - which is a vinedresser or harvester. These folks were not farmers who planted, tended, and then reaped their crops. They were simply the ones who harvested what they had not planted.
"Through your praise, God will cause blessing that you don't even deserve to come your way."
Monday, June 15, 2009
The Product of Praise - part one
I wanted to share the notes I have from my pastor’s message on Sunday. Mostly as a reminder to me but in the hopes that someone else might benefit too.
The main Scripture for Pastor’s sermon was 1 Chronicles 4:1 and here it is in NKJV:
The sons of Judah [were] Perez, Hezron, Carmi, Hur, and Shobal.
Nothing particularly earth-shattering there, eh? But, Pastor took us deeper.
“Judah” according to Easton’s 1897 Bible Dictionary means “praise.” So the sons (and daughters) of Judah are children of PRAISE!
And, what do the folks of the Bible do under stress or in threatening or trying situations? They PRAISE – just ask Paul and Silas! LOL According to Pastor, “sometimes you have to praise your way out of the lions’ den.”
Each one of Judah’s son embodies a lesson about praise.
First in that list is Perez which means breach, cut off, or divider. According to John 10.10 The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have [it] more abundantly. So, God makes a breach between you and the things holding you back. He's the fortification between you and the things that can hurt you.
God is in complete control and is standing in that breach to keep the things the devil is throwing at you from doing you harm. His protective arm and His mighty wings cover you when you don’t even realize it…
So…PRAISE HIM for it! No matter what is going on - PRAISE HIM! Take a glance at the things which are causing you grief and worry and PRAISE HIM!
"Praise is permeated with productive power!"
The main Scripture for Pastor’s sermon was 1 Chronicles 4:1 and here it is in NKJV:
The sons of Judah [were] Perez, Hezron, Carmi, Hur, and Shobal.
Nothing particularly earth-shattering there, eh? But, Pastor took us deeper.
“Judah” according to Easton’s 1897 Bible Dictionary means “praise.” So the sons (and daughters) of Judah are children of PRAISE!
And, what do the folks of the Bible do under stress or in threatening or trying situations? They PRAISE – just ask Paul and Silas! LOL According to Pastor, “sometimes you have to praise your way out of the lions’ den.”
Each one of Judah’s son embodies a lesson about praise.
First in that list is Perez which means breach, cut off, or divider. According to John 10.10 The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have [it] more abundantly. So, God makes a breach between you and the things holding you back. He's the fortification between you and the things that can hurt you.
God is in complete control and is standing in that breach to keep the things the devil is throwing at you from doing you harm. His protective arm and His mighty wings cover you when you don’t even realize it…
So…PRAISE HIM for it! No matter what is going on - PRAISE HIM! Take a glance at the things which are causing you grief and worry and PRAISE HIM!
"Praise is permeated with productive power!"
Saturday, April 4, 2009
It's all in the attitude
*deep breath*
*thinking to self* This was a REALLY good day
*then the critical voice pipes up*
But, why? What's so special about what you did today? You got NOTHING accomplished.
Hey, now wait a minute...
*thoughts come to a screeching halt*
I've spent a lifetime battling with that internal critic. You're too fat, too loud, too tall, too awkward, too slow, too different, too freaked out....blah blah blah.
So, I've tried to be positive. I've tried to be consciously thankful. But, I regularly and habitually start listening to that internal critic again.
Then, something occurred to me in a stronger, more powerful way tonight...it's all about the attitude. It's all about which glasses you are looking through as you survey your circumstances. Just today has been full of choices:
ANOTHER sink of dirty dishes
OR
hey, I had the sabbatical from housework today
Man, Pojke has just been a handful all day
OR
Wow, Flicka was an absolute angel at Aunt Peg's house today.
Crud, I got NOTHING crossed off my to-do list today
OR
wow, I got to sit around, visit, watch the kids play with their cousins, and watch a little TV uninterrupted.
Oh no! I forgot my purse at Aunt Peg's
OR
how cool that Aunt Peg brought my purse to me!
Oh my goodness, I'm almost already through my gas budget 'til Wednesday
OR
I'm so blessed to have a second car and the chance to drive around to Aunt Peg's and Grandma's today while DaHubby had class and had work.
I'm not sharing this so I sound all enlightened or holy or whatever but because it was a powerful realization today. And, by sharing, I'm hoping it'll make me more accountable to continue thinking this way.
And, hopefully, it can serve as a gentle reminder to someone who might be having a rough day. (((hugs)))
*thinking to self* This was a REALLY good day
*then the critical voice pipes up*
But, why? What's so special about what you did today? You got NOTHING accomplished.
Hey, now wait a minute...
*thoughts come to a screeching halt*
I've spent a lifetime battling with that internal critic. You're too fat, too loud, too tall, too awkward, too slow, too different, too freaked out....blah blah blah.
So, I've tried to be positive. I've tried to be consciously thankful. But, I regularly and habitually start listening to that internal critic again.
Then, something occurred to me in a stronger, more powerful way tonight...it's all about the attitude. It's all about which glasses you are looking through as you survey your circumstances. Just today has been full of choices:
ANOTHER sink of dirty dishes
OR
hey, I had the sabbatical from housework today
Man, Pojke has just been a handful all day
OR
Wow, Flicka was an absolute angel at Aunt Peg's house today.
Crud, I got NOTHING crossed off my to-do list today
OR
wow, I got to sit around, visit, watch the kids play with their cousins, and watch a little TV uninterrupted.
Oh no! I forgot my purse at Aunt Peg's
OR
how cool that Aunt Peg brought my purse to me!
Oh my goodness, I'm almost already through my gas budget 'til Wednesday
OR
I'm so blessed to have a second car and the chance to drive around to Aunt Peg's and Grandma's today while DaHubby had class and had work.
I'm not sharing this so I sound all enlightened or holy or whatever but because it was a powerful realization today. And, by sharing, I'm hoping it'll make me more accountable to continue thinking this way.
And, hopefully, it can serve as a gentle reminder to someone who might be having a rough day. (((hugs)))
Friday, March 6, 2009
41 reasons to be thankful
Well, it has been 14,965 days since I was born but, while I'm sure the Lord's blessed me at least that many times since then, I don't have the time today to come up with 14,965 things to be thankful for! LOL Probably should have posted this yesterday for Thursday Thanks Tank but I'm in the midst of planning Flicka's own birthday extravaganza for tomorrow! LOL
So here goes...
for God's grace
for His word
His salvation
and His supply!
DaHubby
Flicka
Pojke
my parents and their spouses
my sisters
my extended family in SE Michigan
my in-laws
my extended family here in SW Michigan
my pastors
my local church family
my "church grandma" - Sister P.
my "church parents" - Brother and Sister B.
for Becca, Juli, and Beth who remind me WHY I believe
Lisa
Jill
Shelagh
Melanie
Melissa
all my new MOMS Club buddies
Anita, Sara, and all my early blogging buddies
Janet, Allana, and all my PAIF buddies (And, especially Allana since it's her b-day today too!)
for this home
for our transportation
for our technology which *tries* to make our lives easier! LOL
my health and that of DaHubby and the Vikings
DaHubby's job even as unsteady as it is
for DaHubby's college adviser - she's such a blessing in this stressful time
for Dave Ramsey's advice, class, and radio show
for living *just* where I dreamed I would when I was young
for closets with clothes and cabinets with food
for my joy in reading
for my joy in cooking
for my ADD (and that's a tough one to be thankful for! LOL) which blesses me in backhanded ways I couldn't have anticipated
for the miracle in Brother B last year
for the miracle in Peggy this last year
for the past year of craziness
and for the upcoming year...filled with God's promises!
So here goes...
for God's grace
for His word
His salvation
and His supply!
DaHubby
Flicka
Pojke
my parents and their spouses
my sisters
my extended family in SE Michigan
my in-laws
my extended family here in SW Michigan
my pastors
my local church family
my "church grandma" - Sister P.
my "church parents" - Brother and Sister B.
for Becca, Juli, and Beth who remind me WHY I believe
Lisa
Jill
Shelagh
Melanie
Melissa
all my new MOMS Club buddies
Anita, Sara, and all my early blogging buddies
Janet, Allana, and all my PAIF buddies (And, especially Allana since it's her b-day today too!)
for this home
for our transportation
for our technology which *tries* to make our lives easier! LOL
my health and that of DaHubby and the Vikings
DaHubby's job even as unsteady as it is
for DaHubby's college adviser - she's such a blessing in this stressful time
for Dave Ramsey's advice, class, and radio show
for living *just* where I dreamed I would when I was young
for closets with clothes and cabinets with food
for my joy in reading
for my joy in cooking
for my ADD (and that's a tough one to be thankful for! LOL) which blesses me in backhanded ways I couldn't have anticipated
for the miracle in Brother B last year
for the miracle in Peggy this last year
for the past year of craziness
and for the upcoming year...filled with God's promises!
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Blessing Brag via Goldilocks
...and I'm bragging on God entirely!
Our sweet lil' "Goldilocks" aka our "harvest gold" 2001 Ford Focus has been DaHubby's and my love mobile! LOL It was our first purchase after we got married nearly 8 years ago. I remember having to make sure I signed the correct name to all the paperwork! LOL
She's been all over our state and even took us on our honeymoon to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in northern Minnesota.
And, she has been a DREAM car - we love that we've done nothing but put gas and oil in her and put some brakes and tires on her in 8 years. She's been into the dealership 2 or 3 times for recall items that needed to be replaced but she's been incredibly healthy all these years.
In May 2007, she rolled 100,000 miles.
I don't drive her often (since I have the "grocery getter" aka the Freestar which has yet to be named) but I'm guessing she's up around 120K now. She was also paid off nearly 3 years ago which means no more "free rides" for maintenance! LOL
So, we knew she was coming up on some work needing to be done. We were just hoping she'd make it through this financially lean period...but the inevitable happened: broken front springs. *sigh*
Goldilocks was diagnosed recently by DaHubby and a buddy at work. They figured the work could be done at home (so the labor would be "free" or I'd have to make DaHubby pasties again or something like that LOL) but the parts were still looking to be several hundred dollars. Well, that's what emergency funds are for and we figured we do it sometime this week after work in the evening while DaHubby's on spring break from school.
But, as Dave Ramsey says, that's not good enough! LOL
DaHubby dropped a dime on the dealership...remember, this is an 8 year old car with nearly 120K miles on it. And, guess what? The springs are a recall item! And, their replacement is ENTIRELY COVERED! WA-HOO! DaHubby will drop Goldilocks off at the dealership tomorrow morning and she should be done before he leaves work!
How great is the God we serve!? THANK YOU LORD!
Our sweet lil' "Goldilocks" aka our "harvest gold" 2001 Ford Focus has been DaHubby's and my love mobile! LOL It was our first purchase after we got married nearly 8 years ago. I remember having to make sure I signed the correct name to all the paperwork! LOL
She's been all over our state and even took us on our honeymoon to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in northern Minnesota.
And, she has been a DREAM car - we love that we've done nothing but put gas and oil in her and put some brakes and tires on her in 8 years. She's been into the dealership 2 or 3 times for recall items that needed to be replaced but she's been incredibly healthy all these years.In May 2007, she rolled 100,000 miles.
I don't drive her often (since I have the "grocery getter" aka the Freestar which has yet to be named) but I'm guessing she's up around 120K now. She was also paid off nearly 3 years ago which means no more "free rides" for maintenance! LOL So, we knew she was coming up on some work needing to be done. We were just hoping she'd make it through this financially lean period...but the inevitable happened: broken front springs. *sigh*
Goldilocks was diagnosed recently by DaHubby and a buddy at work. They figured the work could be done at home (so the labor would be "free" or I'd have to make DaHubby pasties again or something like that LOL) but the parts were still looking to be several hundred dollars. Well, that's what emergency funds are for and we figured we do it sometime this week after work in the evening while DaHubby's on spring break from school.
But, as Dave Ramsey says, that's not good enough! LOL
DaHubby dropped a dime on the dealership...remember, this is an 8 year old car with nearly 120K miles on it. And, guess what? The springs are a recall item! And, their replacement is ENTIRELY COVERED! WA-HOO! DaHubby will drop Goldilocks off at the dealership tomorrow morning and she should be done before he leaves work!
How great is the God we serve!? THANK YOU LORD!
Monday, November 24, 2008
Thanksgiving and parachutes
Did the entire Church worldwide get the same sermon yesterday about the 10 lepers who were healed and the one who gave thanks? LOL Well, I got it twice.
As a guest at our local COG Saturday night, their senior pastor used that story in Luke 17 as his main Scripture. Then, at my home church Sunday morning, Pastor D made reference to it as well. But, there was one other allusion I heard that has stuck with me all weekend and I just wanted to share it during this week of Thanksgiving for those of us in the States.
Captain L Charles Plumb flew aircraft for the U.S. Navy during Vietnam. The story of his life, his training, his capture, and his time as a POW have been so extraordinary that it has been captured in books and he is now a motivational speaker who tours the country.
The pastor I heard speak on Saturday shared this story from Plumb's life:
A few years ago, Capt. Plumb was in Kansas City having a meal. A man across the restaurant kept looking at Plumb as if he knew him and eventually approached him.
"You're Capt. Plumb...you flew jet fighters in Vietnam. You were on the aircraft carrier Kitty Hawk. You were shot down. You parachuted into enemy hands and spent six years as a prisoner of war."
Plumb confirmed that yes that was him but inquired how the man knew all that.
"Because I packed your parachute."
Standing before him, many years older, was the sailor who had packed Capt. Plumb's parachute days, maybe hours before he fell into enemy hands.
Plumb describes jumping up and shaking the man's hand and said "...I've said a lot of prayers of thanks for your nimble fingers, but I never thought I'd have the opportunity to express my gratitude in person."
The men spoke for a few more minutes, parted ways, and then Plumb says that later that night, he still could not get the man off his mind.
So, who is packing YOUR parachute? Who is holding you up physically, spiritually, or prayerfully? Who does those everyday, small things in your life? Who is the person who you may not have acknowledged that is packing your chute as you read this. Who do you need to seek out and thank this week?
As a guest at our local COG Saturday night, their senior pastor used that story in Luke 17 as his main Scripture. Then, at my home church Sunday morning, Pastor D made reference to it as well. But, there was one other allusion I heard that has stuck with me all weekend and I just wanted to share it during this week of Thanksgiving for those of us in the States.
Captain L Charles Plumb flew aircraft for the U.S. Navy during Vietnam. The story of his life, his training, his capture, and his time as a POW have been so extraordinary that it has been captured in books and he is now a motivational speaker who tours the country.
The pastor I heard speak on Saturday shared this story from Plumb's life:
A few years ago, Capt. Plumb was in Kansas City having a meal. A man across the restaurant kept looking at Plumb as if he knew him and eventually approached him.
"You're Capt. Plumb...you flew jet fighters in Vietnam. You were on the aircraft carrier Kitty Hawk. You were shot down. You parachuted into enemy hands and spent six years as a prisoner of war."
Plumb confirmed that yes that was him but inquired how the man knew all that.
"Because I packed your parachute."
Standing before him, many years older, was the sailor who had packed Capt. Plumb's parachute days, maybe hours before he fell into enemy hands.
Plumb describes jumping up and shaking the man's hand and said "...I've said a lot of prayers of thanks for your nimble fingers, but I never thought I'd have the opportunity to express my gratitude in person."
The men spoke for a few more minutes, parted ways, and then Plumb says that later that night, he still could not get the man off his mind.
"...I kept wondering what he might have looked like in a Navy uniform - a Dixie cup hat, a bib in the back and bell bottom trousers. I wondered how many times I might have passed him on board the Kitty Hawk. I wondered how many times I might have seen him and not even said "good morning", "how are you", or anything because, you see, I was a fighter pilot and he was just a sailor. How many hours did he spend on that long wooden table in the bowels of that ship weaving the shrouds and folding the silks of those chutes? I could have cared less...until one day my parachute came along and he packed it for me."
So, who is packing YOUR parachute? Who is holding you up physically, spiritually, or prayerfully? Who does those everyday, small things in your life? Who is the person who you may not have acknowledged that is packing your chute as you read this. Who do you need to seek out and thank this week?
Monday, November 10, 2008
Doubly Blessed
It all started off with cleaning out my Bible. I've been itching for a new one in a different translation but regret having to let my current one go. I was given my Concordia Self Study Bible 20 years ago last month yet have only been really using it about half that time.
One habit I did start immediately was putting the date in the margins next to significant verses that were pertinent at the time. As 20 years have passed, it provides a bit of a diary and documentation of where I've been, the challenges I've faced, the questions I've asked, and the numerous ways God's acted in my life.
But, I'm ready for a new one and was going through all the scraps of paper, pictures, and bulletins I have stuffed in the pages and in the cover. As I sorted through the photos, I found this one:
Just over 6 years ago, I was baptized by my former pastor. As I look at this picture, I see all the promise that comes from a public confession of faith. It had been about 27 months after DaHubby and I had met and 15 months since we had been married. And, after completing the membership classes which changed my denomination for the third time, DaHubby and I were now walking forward being more of one mind and on the same page.
But, this picture is also bittersweet. The date on the back tells me that this day of celebration occurred 10 days after we lost our first angel to heaven. It was as much a dark time as a celebration. That in and of itself tells me how strong (and how comforting) this renewed, newly-testified faith really was. And, it's only grown from there.
But, renewed from what beginnings? LOL That's a whole 'nother story. My story of my mutt-like faith journey - starting from my mom's Catholic faith, through my Lutheran renewal in college, and resulting in my Pentecostal "homecoming" - all started here in April 1968:
From those roots, I grew my wings which brought me where I am today. As I look back through 20 years - and then through my full 40 years - there's no way I could deny God's presence, His influence, and His protection all those years.
While I wandered away several times and did things I would never want to repeat in current company, God's always welcomed me - a poor wretched sinner - back home every single time.
And, it is because of that fact that I fully believe the message preached from our pulpit yesterday that said in part:
Don't be afraid - He is always with you!
He fought for you before; He'll fight for you again! And,
He brought you out before; He'll bring you out again!
And, all God's people said - AMEN!
One habit I did start immediately was putting the date in the margins next to significant verses that were pertinent at the time. As 20 years have passed, it provides a bit of a diary and documentation of where I've been, the challenges I've faced, the questions I've asked, and the numerous ways God's acted in my life.
But, I'm ready for a new one and was going through all the scraps of paper, pictures, and bulletins I have stuffed in the pages and in the cover. As I sorted through the photos, I found this one:
Just over 6 years ago, I was baptized by my former pastor. As I look at this picture, I see all the promise that comes from a public confession of faith. It had been about 27 months after DaHubby and I had met and 15 months since we had been married. And, after completing the membership classes which changed my denomination for the third time, DaHubby and I were now walking forward being more of one mind and on the same page.But, this picture is also bittersweet. The date on the back tells me that this day of celebration occurred 10 days after we lost our first angel to heaven. It was as much a dark time as a celebration. That in and of itself tells me how strong (and how comforting) this renewed, newly-testified faith really was. And, it's only grown from there.
But, renewed from what beginnings? LOL That's a whole 'nother story. My story of my mutt-like faith journey - starting from my mom's Catholic faith, through my Lutheran renewal in college, and resulting in my Pentecostal "homecoming" - all started here in April 1968:
From those roots, I grew my wings which brought me where I am today. As I look back through 20 years - and then through my full 40 years - there's no way I could deny God's presence, His influence, and His protection all those years.While I wandered away several times and did things I would never want to repeat in current company, God's always welcomed me - a poor wretched sinner - back home every single time.
And, it is because of that fact that I fully believe the message preached from our pulpit yesterday that said in part:
Don't be afraid - He is always with you!
He fought for you before; He'll fight for you again! And,
He brought you out before; He'll bring you out again!
And, all God's people said - AMEN!
Sunday, November 9, 2008
OMgoodness!
WOW! Amazing!
Heard this today for the first time. Had me crying in the van with it playing on the radio - kids must have thought I'd lost my mind! LOL
Recorded it with my phone on the dash. When I got home, I printed out the chords for DaHubby and he's playing it behind me now. We are SO playing this for praise and worship! LOL Enjoy!
Heard this today for the first time. Had me crying in the van with it playing on the radio - kids must have thought I'd lost my mind! LOL
Recorded it with my phone on the dash. When I got home, I printed out the chords for DaHubby and he's playing it behind me now. We are SO playing this for praise and worship! LOL Enjoy!
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
The nicest words I've heard so far this week LOL
We've still had medical and/or hospital bills trickling in from the loss of Böna in mid-August. I've been trying to chase down the last one that still hadn't been sent to our insurance as of early last week. FINALLY I heard from the OB's office today after multiple calls:
OB insurance lady: "We sent it in to Blue Cross on October 30th and they've already paid $422.76 of that bill."
"And, what would be left as our 20% share?" I asked, bracing for bad news.
"Actually, Beth, it says at the bottom "Patient may be billed zero'."
As I said here, praise God for health insurance - we FINALLY hit our deductible! Was anticipating another $100+ bill (after already paying out hundreds so far out of pocket for the initial prenatal fees and resulting hospital stay) and we may owe nothing! It's been wipe away clean!
Now that example Pastor used on Sunday about being forgiven by God free and clear, completely grace-filled FREE takes on a WHOLE 'nother level of meaning *wink*
OB insurance lady: "We sent it in to Blue Cross on October 30th and they've already paid $422.76 of that bill."
"And, what would be left as our 20% share?" I asked, bracing for bad news.
"Actually, Beth, it says at the bottom "Patient may be billed zero'."
As I said here, praise God for health insurance - we FINALLY hit our deductible! Was anticipating another $100+ bill (after already paying out hundreds so far out of pocket for the initial prenatal fees and resulting hospital stay) and we may owe nothing! It's been wipe away clean!
Now that example Pastor used on Sunday about being forgiven by God free and clear, completely grace-filled FREE takes on a WHOLE 'nother level of meaning *wink*
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Yea, DaHubby! Way to go!
Not only made it through the first round (essay)...
and the second round (interview)...
but now he's made it through the THIRD round (security clearance/drug testing) too for the full ride grant/scholarship process for his college program!
Wa-hoo!
The fourth round is Thursday with an aptitude test.
Can't imagine what's left for a fifth, sixth, or seventh round! *wink*
Way to go, babe! You rock!
and the second round (interview)...
but now he's made it through the THIRD round (security clearance/drug testing) too for the full ride grant/scholarship process for his college program!
Wa-hoo!
The fourth round is Thursday with an aptitude test.
Can't imagine what's left for a fifth, sixth, or seventh round! *wink*
Way to go, babe! You rock!
Thursday, August 7, 2008
A big blasting ray of light
My sister in law Peggy who is about 84 days post-transplant to treat a rare leukemia had been facing some challenges lately. After making some significant gains in strength and test result numbers, she suddenly went backwards. White count up, platelets way done, suddenly very tired all over again.
So, last week, her docs at Chicago Rush decided to not wait til the traditional/expected 100 day post-transplant bone marrow check and moved it up to this past Monday.
To be honest, we were very worried. If I'm remembering correctly the statistics, Rush had never even seen someone with Peggy's type of leukemia before and of the about 20 documented cases worldwide, only one survived any significant length of time.
Yet, due to our great God and Healer, this is what my niece posted about 4 hours ago:
If it hasnt' sunk in just yet, let me help ya out:
PEGGY IS CCAANNCCEERR-FFRREEEE!!!!!!
Praise GOD!! He is AWESOME!! And, I'm feeling a little partial about Peggy and her doctors right now too! *wink*
So, last week, her docs at Chicago Rush decided to not wait til the traditional/expected 100 day post-transplant bone marrow check and moved it up to this past Monday.
To be honest, we were very worried. If I'm remembering correctly the statistics, Rush had never even seen someone with Peggy's type of leukemia before and of the about 20 documented cases worldwide, only one survived any significant length of time.
Yet, due to our great God and Healer, this is what my niece posted about 4 hours ago:
"Well we are still waiting on some of the results however it has come back that there is NO SIGN OF LEUKEMIA!!!! Yes!!! We are ALL so very Happy and excited about this news... HAHA... So much so that yep I started dancing at work and they all looked as me as if I were nuts!!! LOL... "
If it hasnt' sunk in just yet, let me help ya out:
PEGGY IS CCAANNCCEERR-FFRREEEE!!!!!!
Praise GOD!! He is AWESOME!! And, I'm feeling a little partial about Peggy and her doctors right now too! *wink*
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Remembering what's important
Good job to the Dallas/Fort Worth community for doing this! I wish we lived close enough to an airport to do this! How cool it would be for the Vikings to see and for DaHubby and I to be reminded...
Monday, July 7, 2008
Oh, did I mention?
Not only did we have our first Sunday morning service on the new property this weekend, but we (as a church family) spent all weekend there camping...
eating, fellowshipping, more eating...
bouncing, and more eating? LOL
And, that we went as a church to the fireworks at the coolest spot EVER - on the beach of Lake Michigan?
And, lastly, did I mention we have the COOLEST pastors ANYWHERE? *wink*
We had an AWESOME weekend!
eating, fellowshipping, more eating...
bouncing, and more eating? LOL
And, that we went as a church to the fireworks at the coolest spot EVER - on the beach of Lake Michigan?
And, lastly, did I mention we have the COOLEST pastors ANYWHERE? *wink*
We had an AWESOME weekend!Sunday, July 6, 2008
Guess where WE had church today!?
On our new property!!
...the first Sunday morning service, the first communion, the first offering...to God be the glory!
...the first Sunday morning service, the first communion, the first offering...to God be the glory!Monday, May 26, 2008
Grafting News! A Memorable Weekend!
It appears that at 13 days post-transplant, my bro-in-law J's stem cells are officially starting to graft to Peggy's body! After nearly two weeks of awful and painful side effects and expected reactions, her numbers are increasing substantially! Praise God!
From their blog at CarePages:
Thursday (9 days post transplant [PT]): "She kept me busy we walked and then we walked and then we walked some more...She felt good we probably walked at least 15 times around the halls...She had some pain today in her mouth and throat but they have started giving her morphine constantly and it really seems to help. She is sleeping much better tonight...Peggy's WBC(white blood count) is .49 up from .28."
Friday (10 days PT): "Good Morning!!! Peggy woke up feeling good today..Her WBC jump from .49 to 1.22 which is great, Her platelets went from 46 to 85 which is good...Her vitals are all great ..Just the sores in her throat and mouth although it is being controlled by Morphine.. Otherwise she is feeling and doing great. We have done about 8 laps already today. She received one unit of blood earlier today. Peggy had a really great day today...We can say the engraftment has started ....Yeah Peggy is beginning to get a new Immune system and it is responding so far really well..She felt good all day except for the sores in her Mouth and throat which causes her not to be able to eat or drink anything..."
Saturday (11 days PT): "Peggy woke up feeling great!!! Her WBC Triple today went from 1.22 to 3.78 range depending where is get you information is 4-10 or 5-11 either way she is close to being in that range. all her other count look good to platelets went from 85 up to 130 range is 150-399 so she is almost there too..Red blood count is up from 2.60 to 3.05 normal range is 4-5.2 Hemoglobin went from 7.9 to 9.2 Normal range is 12-16 although she got help on this one with a unit of Blood yesterday her Neutrophil were .09 yesterday do not have them yet ..this is the big one they want the Neutrophil to be 1.0 before going home so we got a little ways to go yet on that one"
Sunday: (12 days PT): "We have been walking and walking and walking and then visiting with others ..We have had a great day!!! Peggy is feeling so well...she actually took a couple of drinks of water today which is great. Doctor Larson said she will start taking away 1 antibiotic at a time and see how Peggy does ...Then try to get her Mouth and Throat Better ...Her Neutrophil went from .09 to a .876 which is Awesome! 1.0 Means she is no longer Neutropenic the averages range is 1.84-7.80 ..."
Please continue to pray if you felt led. We were initially told it would be another month before she could come home. But, because of God's amazing healing hands, it could be as soon as next week!
From their blog at CarePages:
Thursday (9 days post transplant [PT]): "She kept me busy we walked and then we walked and then we walked some more...She felt good we probably walked at least 15 times around the halls...She had some pain today in her mouth and throat but they have started giving her morphine constantly and it really seems to help. She is sleeping much better tonight...Peggy's WBC(white blood count) is .49 up from .28."
Friday (10 days PT): "Good Morning!!! Peggy woke up feeling good today..Her WBC jump from .49 to 1.22 which is great, Her platelets went from 46 to 85 which is good...Her vitals are all great ..Just the sores in her throat and mouth although it is being controlled by Morphine.. Otherwise she is feeling and doing great. We have done about 8 laps already today. She received one unit of blood earlier today. Peggy had a really great day today...We can say the engraftment has started ....Yeah Peggy is beginning to get a new Immune system and it is responding so far really well..She felt good all day except for the sores in her Mouth and throat which causes her not to be able to eat or drink anything..."
Saturday (11 days PT): "Peggy woke up feeling great!!! Her WBC Triple today went from 1.22 to 3.78 range depending where is get you information is 4-10 or 5-11 either way she is close to being in that range. all her other count look good to platelets went from 85 up to 130 range is 150-399 so she is almost there too..Red blood count is up from 2.60 to 3.05 normal range is 4-5.2 Hemoglobin went from 7.9 to 9.2 Normal range is 12-16 although she got help on this one with a unit of Blood yesterday her Neutrophil were .09 yesterday do not have them yet ..this is the big one they want the Neutrophil to be 1.0 before going home so we got a little ways to go yet on that one"
Sunday: (12 days PT): "We have been walking and walking and walking and then visiting with others ..We have had a great day!!! Peggy is feeling so well...she actually took a couple of drinks of water today which is great. Doctor Larson said she will start taking away 1 antibiotic at a time and see how Peggy does ...Then try to get her Mouth and Throat Better ...Her Neutrophil went from .09 to a .876 which is Awesome! 1.0 Means she is no longer Neutropenic the averages range is 1.84-7.80 ..."
Please continue to pray if you felt led. We were initially told it would be another month before she could come home. But, because of God's amazing healing hands, it could be as soon as next week!
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
On Chicago Time
At 1:50pm Central Daylight Time today, Peggy received 10 million healthy stem-soon-to-be-marrow cells without complication!
Praise Him - He is good!
Continue to pray that she experience little or no after effects (re: leukemia's version of donor rejection).
God willing, she'll be home in 3-5 weeks!
Praise Him - He is good!
Continue to pray that she experience little or no after effects (re: leukemia's version of donor rejection).
God willing, she'll be home in 3-5 weeks!
(My niece, my bro-in-law, Peggy, and my other niece.)
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