Roses on My Table

Go Away

2008-04-13T16:44:00.003-05:00

I mean it. I am not going to be here anymore.

I've escaped. I even almost wordpressed (GASP)

Where have I gone???

I ain't gonna let out a peep

well, maybe a little one ;)

I am here now - www.hofpeeps.blogspot.com

Hang Tight . . .

2008-04-11T09:36:00.001-05:00

I am working out some kinks -

Sorry Carrie, I liked that other layout too!

Construction Zone

2008-04-10T20:28:00.002-05:00

Yeah, I am changing - - - AGAIN :)

I love to decorate - myself, my house, my BLOG -

Rain

2008-04-10T09:08:00.003-05:00

Its been raining lightly here, all morning long. The dog is eagerly staring out the sliding glass door, watching the birds peck at the wet grass. I'd let him out, but then he'd want to come right back in again. The 'walk' sort of got lost in the midst of this sleepy starting day.

There's a stillness that creeps up to me right now, inviting me to feel its void with creativity, a skill that seems somewhat long lost to me right now. I am slowly trying to recapture this butterfly though. Time has made time for me to do so.

Maybe, this quest will just start simply - (really, why do I always think that creativity = writing poetry and painting in watercolor?)

Let's start with the basics, and then I will feel like I am making a little more progress in this department. Basics, eh? Like making the front porch more agreeable. We worked a lot on both the front and back yards these past weeks - if I can dig up the camera, I'll get a picture of that work's results.

I'm getting there

Groach!

2008-04-09T09:35:00.002-05:00

I guess that you could call that a combination of 'gross' and 'roach'. . .

As I was on my bed writing down some prayer requests this morning, I noticed something small & dark MOVING slowly across my nightstand. Horror of horrors, it was a roach, crawling on top of my Bible and making his evil way to my cup of cranberry juice.

I ran to the guest bathroom to grab the best bug-killin' concoction that man has ever created : RAID Kills on Contact

Once he spotted me with his googly antennaed head, he fled under the bed. I managed to squirt a couple sprays on his gangly legs, paralyzing his escape.

It was a fight, but I am happy to say that I WON.

This is so weird . . .

2008-04-07T08:02:00.004-05:00

Its 8 am, and I am not standing in my closet, wondering what in the world I am going to wear to work today. I am not trying to flurry through this post so that I can get out the door.

I am sitting here, breathing and relaxing - I don't have to go into work until noon.

I am feeling comforted and blessed in the provisions that God has made for us. Two great big prayers have been answered and I can't stop thanking Him. . .

#1 - my husband is home - he has been home for the past 3 weeks. No, he didn't lose his job ;)
He is still a project manager, but he is sort of 'in-between' projects right now, so he is working out of the main office, 25 minutes away. So, if you see a handsome 6 ft blond-haired guy hanging around, don't worry, that's my husband ;)

And #2 actually came to fruition this past week. Over a year ago this week, I began working more like 'full time' hours at my job. This was not really something I wanted to do, but it was something that I was called to do, and the Lord never asks too much of us. I admit that its been a challenging year, juggling work, BSF, trips back and forth, etc. - and I have had my share of complaining, fists up to God and all. But God has really blessed this path with His faithfulness. Sometimes, you just have to wait on Him. We were able to hire another administrative & marketing person who is able to fill in for me on this new part-time 1/2 day schedule my boss has given me. The timing is so perfect - I so appreciate having mornings at home to get the day going, and the company also is trying to make some cut-backs, so it feels good to be a part of those efforts.

So, here I am - and its so good to be here.

Yikes

2008-04-02T07:47:00.004-05:00

I had to peel my jaw up off the cement as I was filling up my gas tank yesterday - $3.19 per gall. is a lot for Texas. I closed my eyes when I swiped my card. . . ignorance is certainly bliss in this case.

I know that you CA folks are suffering even more, and you do have my pity . . .

Refreshed

2008-04-01T11:44:00.004-05:00

This past weekend, I was privileged to go to a wonderful BSF Retreat in Dallas. Early Friday morning, about 16 women in our class boarded a spacious bus and we took a 5 hour drive north to our destination, the Adams Mark Hotel (WOW, what a treat!)

Though the trip was a bit rainy and muggy, we arrived excited, and amazed at all the people there. . . 3,000 of us BSF leaders for the conference! Jane (my co-leader) and I shared a room which faced the city and all those glorious skyscrapers, with the DART below.

Jean Nystrand, the executive director of BSF, taught through the book of Isaiah - very enriching and insightful! In between lectures, we enjoyed delicious meals, coffee breaks (sigh, I DID HAVE TO HAVE CAFFIENE, MY LIFE DEPENDED ON IT!), and lots of fellowshipping with other Christians - praise the Lord for three 'thousand tongues to sing, Thy great Redeemer's praise. . . '!!!

Perhaps many of you may not know, but my involvement with BSF came at a time when I was feeling a need for connection to other women. I really yearned to be deeper in the Word. Haven and I had just moved to San Antonio at the time, and I was eager to join after my mom had encouraged me to go to BSF. I actually started going in the middle of the Genesis study, and it has blessed me ever since. Last year, at the beginning of the Romans study, I was asked to be a part of the leadership - what an honor. This is my first year of being a Children's Leader, something that seemed so overwhelming at first, but I am amazed at God's equipping! I feel so blessed that I can share the opportunity to teach 11 jr. high students with my co-leader!

The most precious thing to me about being in BSF is that I am the third generation in my family to be involved in BSF. A. Wetherell Johnson, the originator of BSF, began to lead a tiny class of women in Oakland, Ca., more than 50 years ago . . . my grandmother came to be a part of that class! At the retreat, they had prepared a special slide presentation of the history of BSF - I think I saw my grandmother in one of the photos they flashed!

My mother was a part of BSF for a while when she was younger - I think that my brother, sister and I were in the children's program at some point. . .

The Headquarters are actually located here, in San Antonio - on a gorgeous piece of land on the northside. . .

From the retreat - I just feel so refreshed and have a new perspective. Sometimes, I get so discouraged about the seemingly impactless efforts we make - but God really is at work through His people, and it is such a blessing to be able to serve Him through this outlet.

No . . . please, not yet . . .

2008-03-26T07:47:00.005-05:00

Did someone mention the dreaded S word? Texas must've heard you - we are going to be creeping into the warm SUMMER-like 80's this week. But its not just that. . . something was waiting for me when I stepped outside this morning to get the paper. . . a familiar enemy, ah yes, humidity. And, on top of that, with everything blooming, the pollen count is off the charts . . . icky

I am trying to focus on the good things this week - like the Spurs winning by ten over the Orlando Magic last night, or more importantly, the wonderful BSF retreat this weekend in Dallas :)
But > > >
I just can't seem to shake my disappointment with the weather.

I really would rather be here right now. . .

Sigh ;)

Tea Time

2008-03-20T07:26:00.004-05:00

For St. Patrick's Day, along with a sweet card, my dear grandmother sent me a couple of these Irish Breakfast tea bags - Delicious, and not quite as strong as English Breakfast tea - I think I have found a new favorite!

Sabotaged

2008-03-19T10:16:00.002-05:00

Sometimes, you just CAN'T win . . .

I worked out this morning - an hour and 15 min. of good, slow burn; aerobics, pilates, and plenty of sweat.

Man, I felt strong - with a good heart-healthy breakfast, 2 tall glasses of water and 2 vitamins, I was off to work (felt like I was off to the races).

And then, today of all days, my dear co-worker decided to bring in a pan of fresh-baked, soft and cakey brownies . . .

Sigh . . .

Dirt Bomb

2008-03-19T06:58:00.004-05:00

Yesterday was a strange weather day. We had a forecast of thunderstorms, strong winds and lots of rain.

Well, where I was at, I heard thunder maybe once, and it only rained about a 1/2 inch during the day - the weather man is a joke. . .

There were reports of tornadoes to the west of us, we thankfully got skipped. And then, a dust storm from the south decided to do the tango with the rain and covered the world in a dirty splash. . .filth covers my car; car washes will be chaotic today.

You know, I am thankful that these crazy storms are staying northwest of us so far - it'd be nice to see a little more rain here, to lift our burn bans, but oh well.

Milk & Toast

2008-03-18T07:39:00.003-05:00

Breakfast is my favorite meal of the day. . .

Why?

Maybe because its so simple - a little something to start your morning that can give you energy to lunch.
It doesn't have to be elaborate - like pancakes, muffins, or eggs (although, I am a fan of these choices, on special occasions). You can just pop an english muffin in your toaster and in a minute or so you are spreading soft cream cheese on the tops and grabbing your mug of coffee (or, in my case, tea or milk).

Mmmm - so good.

I used to skip breakfast for coffee when I was younger, only to end up spent by noon. . . the kick of caffeine would last for a couple of hours, but then would wear off, leaving me cranky. I slowly weaned myself back into the thought of eating breakfast with a banana on the way out the door. It felt like a lump was in my throat, and all morning long, I could feel it slowly sinking into my tummy. Ughh. I tried oatmeal - apples - lowfat poptarts - cold cereal - bagels . . . I found my favorite to be boring old toast of all things. Toast is like a peanut butter staple (oooh, and it tastes sooo good with smooth and creamy peanut butter)- there is just something so wholesome about it, something so classic, so delicious.

MMMMmmmmm . . . . breakfast - and, can you guess what I am having this morning ;)

St. Patrick's Breastplate

2008-03-17T20:08:00.000-05:00

I bind unto myself today . . .

The strong Name of the Trinity,
By invocation of the same
The Three in One and One in Three.

I bind this today to me forever
By power of faith, Christ’s incarnation;
His baptism in Jordan river,
His death on Cross for my salvation;
His bursting from the spiced tomb,
His riding up the heavenly way,
His coming at the day of doom
I bind unto myself today.

I bind unto myself the power
Of the great love of cherubim;
The sweet ‘Well done’ in judgment hour,
The service of the seraphim,
Confessors’ faith, Apostles’ word,
The Patriarchs’ prayers, the prophets’ scrolls,
All good deeds done unto the Lord
And purity of virgin souls.

I bind unto myself today
The virtues of the star lit heaven,
The glorious sun’s life giving ray,
The whiteness of the moon at even,
The flashing of the lightning free,
The whirling wind’s tempestuous shocks,
The stable earth, the deep salt sea
Around the old eternal rocks.

I bind unto myself today
The power of God to hold and lead,
His eye to watch, His might to stay,
His ear to hearken to my need.
The wisdom of my God to teach,
His hand to guide, His shield to ward;
The word of God to give me speech,
His heavenly host to be my guard.

Against the demon snares of sin,
The vice that gives temptation force,
The natural lusts that war within,
The hostile men that mar my course;
Or few or many, far or nigh,
In every place and in all hours,
Against their fierce hostility
I bind to me these holy powers.

Against all Satan’s spells and wiles,
Against false words of heresy,
Against the knowledge that defiles,
Against the heart’s idolatry,
Against the wizard’s evil craft,
Against the death wound and the burning,
The choking wave, the poisoned shaft,
Protect me, Christ, till Thy returning.

Christ be with me, Christ within me,
Christ behind me, Christ before me,
Christ beside me, Christ to win me,
Christ to comfort and restore me.
Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ in quiet, Christ in danger,
Christ in hearts of all that love me,
Christ in mouth of friend and stranger.

I bind unto myself the Name,
The strong Name of the Trinity,
By invocation of the same,
The Three in One and One in Three.
By Whom all nature hath creation,
Eternal Father, Spirit, Word:
Praise to the Lord of my salvation,
Salvation is of Christ the Lord.

Marred and Dented

2008-03-17T13:11:00.003-05:00

So, here's a little update on my traffic citation -

My fine was $192 smackeroos (EEEKK), so H and I both did some research on the thing, and found out that contesting the thing would hardly be worth it, as I would still end up paying miscellaneous fees. What a headache.

So, gritting my teeth and swallowing my pride - I gathered myself and paid the &*%# thing - even though I think it was completely UNCALLED for - and, right now, I am hating on small-town cops.

God is trying to teach me humility - which I am fine with - but can it not involve my wallet next time - please???

Bon Matin

2008-03-13T07:52:00.004-05:00

Each new morning, we wake up to the sound of doves cooing. They roost in the oak tree outside our bedroom window. (That same tree shades Haven's truck and so he is not too happy that they roost there.) They make such a peaceful sounding call, it never seems to irritate me.

Its funny how plain the 'symbol of peace' is. Doves are incredibly humble - have you ever watched their interactions with other birds at a feeder? Little finches and mean jays shove their way to get to the seed. They toss the bird feeder about and scatter seeds everywhere. In the midst of this chaos, the doves sort of sit back and wait for everyone to finish. They end up picking up the seeds scattered all over after everyone leaves.

Our jasmine plants, which are vining around our front pillars have finally been slowly blooming this week. This has been a long time coming - for 4 months or so, we have watched how leafy and bushy each plant has grown, and we have eagerly anticipated the blooms. H got a little worried a couple of times that they weren't blooming yet. They just needed time. Then they started to bud - this budding lay still for about a week, and we keep waiting and watching for a bloom to pop - and then, spring came to our front door.

What is it about the shape and smell of jasmine flowers - how they enthrall us to the point that we have to stop and consume them with our noses. Their elegance, their simple beauty and class - right up there with the rose.

And they wait to inspire me, right outside my front door -

Sheesh Peesh

2008-03-12T20:33:00.003-05:00

This afternoon, I made a stop to the ladies room. It is only normal to go after lunching, beveraging, and walking around in the park. I am not really one to want to chat it up with the other women I meet in the bathroom - after all, we go there for usually ONE purpose, and that purpose is to be privately done behind a stall door. But I will exchange polite smiles and hellos to people I see coming in and going out.

But then, its down to business.

Except when, which seems to be a greater frequency these days, that business concentration gets completely thrown when in walks some woman, jabbering on her cellphone.

She goes into the stall next door. You peek under the stall just enough to do the shoe check- yep, just one person, not two . . . one person with an ear extension.

So, she's talking - and your, well, peeing. . . its awkward. You don't want to be loud, you don't really want to flush. But its the place where this is done, not talking on your phone. She doesn't seem to mind doing her business and talking. . . but does that person on the other line know? Who cares, concentrate, hurry up.

You just keep concentrating, going, and then, take a deep breath, and FLUSH!!!

Done.

Wash your hands and try not to stare down the woman when she emerges from the stall, phone still intact. (Shouldn't she disinfect her phone too? Eww, Gross!)

Courtesy people. Courtesy. Talk OUTSIDE the bathroom.

Braggy ;)

2008-03-10T10:17:00.003-05:00

Naturally, I am proud to my tippiest tip-toes of my hubby. Not only is he extremely goodlooking, God-fearing, and hardworking, but he's also incredibly intelligent.

We saw 10,000 BC the other night, a very captivating and interesting film. With a movie as creative as this one was, usually it takes me a good day or two to process. I wonder internally about things, but then I have to muse on them for a while before I spit them out.
But then there's my hubby. He has good brains, working overtime before, during and after a movie, a book, an article, a conversation, whatever it may be. . . He is able to articulate and bring to light things I never would get close to finding - you know, like a new set of eyes that finds all the missing items that you are looking for, except, in this case, you didn't even know that you were missing them) Well anyway, this movie was no exception.

I love how he thinks.

Here's his review:
http://www.thewaterspout.com/blog/?p=486

And Honey, do you know how much I love you? Well, now everybody knows ;)

Sicky

2008-03-06T16:48:00.003-06:00

I am pretty sure that the flu-bug has been sapping my energy this week - I feel so sluggish, so tired, and have almost lost all of my appetite. Monday morning met me with a slap - vomiting, fever, and nausea kept me home from work. . . Tuesday I managed to go back, and eat a little (good ol' saltine crackers!). It was the day to feel better - something I was so thankful for, because it was my week to teach. Wednesday was pretty good as well.

And then today, I woke up so exhausted, but got myself to work for a couple of hours and then decided to throw in the towel. Me no workey this week.

On the plus side - I think I've lost about 6 lbs this week. . . nice but I am not really into this weight-loss method.

So, sleeping and drinking mass quantities of water have been the way of the land in this dominion.

Idols Update

2008-03-05T22:55:00.002-06:00

It's so appropriate that this stupid show is named, "American Idol'. . . and ahem, after this admission, I will make no other comment ;)

But, since I am hooked I have decided that these are tops - - -

I would have to say that one of my favorites for the girls tonight was Syesha :) Asia'h was close second, Carly, and Ramiele. I am beginning to get tired of Amanda'a hoarse voice, although, it is original. I like Brooke but she didn't seem to bring it out tonight. The rest were, as Simon so bluntly puts it, 'forgettable'.

For the boys. . . I just love that David A - he is just so good. Michael really impressed me, as did Jason. David Cook was okay and Chikezie was alright. The jury is still out on David H. since I heard of a questionable vocation he was in (ahem) though, I cannot deny his vocals still yield great applause.

Wait a minute . . . what am I becoming, some tv-movie review blog or something????

Crank

2008-03-04T10:44:00.003-06:00

(this is from last friday night - tid bit late in posting)

Last night began with a cheery start, as weazled my way through heavy traffic, home to my dear Hubby. We were raring to watch our Spurs take on the Mavs and so I fixed some super yummy burritos, beans and rice and we settled in for the exhilarating game that kept us on the edge the entire way through. Halftime came around, Spurs were up by one in this extremely close game and we both agreed that a trip to HEB for icecream was in order. What's a game without icecream? ;)

I was in the car in seconds. H stayed behind to play with the dog and clean the kitchen. A short drive down the road and as i was turning into the HEB parking lot a cop flashed his lights on me and pulled me over - for what??? I was NOT speeding. I had my lights on. I put my blinker on to get into the turn lane. What in the world???

A very large cop approached my car and I immediately asked, "um, hi, why did you pull me over?" "Well, you passed a car on the left in a turn lane."
Rewind here. Okay. There was a slow moving truck before me, but I stuck it out until about ten feet before the turn lane began for HEB. I did pass him, but I was just cruising up to the light in the turn lane, and not trying to get in front of him. I was going the speed limit, again, I must make that clear and known (to those of you who doubt my driving).
He asked for my insurance. Boy, did I tear that car apart trying to find our newest insurance card. I explained that this was a new car and I needed a little bit to open up the manual book and the glove compartment. He was fine to wait. I called my hubby in frustrated tears, asking where the insurance card was. I finally found it - right where it should be - in the glove compartment.

The cop was still not budging. . . so I got a traffic citation for this stupid 'offense' which I am baffled by. I am still wondering if I should contest it. It seemed like a completely ridiculous thing for me to get a citation for.

I was in a pretty irate mood in the store as I grabbed our ice cream essentials. I drove VERY carefully home and couldn't bring myself to watch our team struggle against the Mavs in the state I was in. I had to clean the kitchen first, and settle down. H informed me that we were winning, and so we got our icecream and finished off the cranky night with a Spurs win. WOHOO.

Life goes on. I admit, my attitude was not stellar, but I still feel like this was not fair. :( Kay, done with my pity party.

Of things lovely

2008-02-27T23:13:00.002-06:00

I love scarves. I have many of them, in colors bright, soft, pale and patterned, bold and striking.
I wore them more in my college days, they worked well with pea coats and in my hair. . .

Unfortunately, these days they rarely have the opportunity to make an appearance outside of my closet.

There they hang, lifeless on plastic hangers. This tragedy struck me this morning when I was standing in my closet, scrounging for some clothes to wear to work. I wondered about how one might look, wrapped loosely around my neck with the black long sleeved tailor shirt I had picked out.

Hmmm.

But, for some reason, I didn't feel confident enough. Somehow, I needed to think this accessory option through more and I just didn't have the time.

But then again, spontaneity in accessorizing can sometimes be a lovely thing. So many options with these lovely things like broaches, scarves, headbands and bangles - we are blessed to have such things in our drawers and closets.

Now to have the confidence to wear them? Now that is a lovely thing.

News of the Weird

2008-02-27T23:05:00.002-06:00

PHEW . . .

At least it was a terrier-chihuahua cross-breed

Python Eats Australian Family Dog

Wednesday, February 27, 2008

(02-27) 19:16 PST BRISBANE, Australia (AP) --

A 16-foot python stalked a family dog for days before swallowing the pet whole in front of horrified children in the Australian tropics, animal experts said Wednesday.

The boy and girl, ages 5 and 7, watched as the scrub python devoured their silky terrier-Chihuahua crossbreed Monday at their home near Kuranda in Queensland state.

Stuart Douglas, owner of the Australian Venom Zoo in Kuranda, said scrub pythons typically eat wild animals such as wallabies, a smaller relative of the kangaroo, but sometimes turn to pets in urban areas.

"It actively stalked the dog for a number of days," Douglas said.

"The family that owned the dog had actually seen it in the dog's bed, which was a sign it was out to get it," he added.

"They should have called me then, but (the snake) got away and three or four days later, I was called and went around and removed it" after the dog had been killed, Douglas said.

By the time Douglas arrived, all that could be seen of the dog was its hind legs and tail.

The zoo manager, Todd Rose, said pythons squeeze their prey to death before swallowing it whole. The 5-year-old dog would have been suffocated within minutes.

"The lady who was there threw some plastic chairs at the snake, but you've got to remember that this is about 50 kilograms (110 pounds) of aggressive muscle," Rose said.

Removing the half-swallowed dog could have harmed or even killed the python, Rose said, because dogs have sharp teeth and claws that could do the snake internal damage if it were wrenched out.

The snake was still digesting the dog at the zoo Wednesday. It will soon be relocated to the bush, Douglas said.

American Idols

2008-02-27T07:40:00.008-06:00

Though I have yet to watch the girls compete tonight, I have narrowed it to six - the top being my favorite :)

Manners, please . . .

2008-02-27T07:33:00.003-06:00

Sheesh - I have a rude dog.

Not only does he tip over his food bowl, scattering kibbles EVERYWHERE, but after breakfasting this morning, he proceeded to move upstairs in full barrel force only to plop at my slippered feet and emit a great "BURRP" in my presence. . .

And he didn't say 'excuse me' . . .

Wind-sweeping

2008-02-26T04:31:00.003-06:00

Its about that time when I would (once upon a time, in a dedicated and disciplined moment) rise, and go sweat bullets at the gym. Then, greater wisdom called me back to bed; bodies need sleep too.

So I sleep. I woke this morning on the early side to find my dog snuggled on the bed at my feet (?!) and the sound of the wind was hollow and exciting outside. . . I couldn't let the moment escape me. After picking up my windswept garbage outside and re-stacking the cans for trash pick-up, I made some tea and here I sit - at 4:30 am.

A magical thing happened last night, and I am not talking about the Spur's win over the Hawks ;)

While the night lay in a quiet slumber, a bold front of cold air pushed away the 90 degree heatwave we were having. The early morning sky is streaked in wispy trails of clouds, and the strong winds did some earth-scattering around my neighborhood. The air turned crisp, cool and inviting. I might go back to bed and snuggle for a little longer, but this was certainly worth waking up for. . .

Rock Water

2008-02-22T12:39:00.002-06:00

As I was perusing some liturgy readings this morning, one struck me as so appropriately perfect for my struggling attitude toward life right now. Exodus 17:1-7 - I am one to often compare myself to a rebellious Israelite, not compliant and willing to follow the leader who was chosen by God to guide them out of wilderness and into the Promiseland.
What a daunting task, to lead a grumbling nation who doubted you . . . Moses was doing what God had called him to do. He had no special wisdom, no super power in and of himself to even know where the next step would take them.

He didn't feel equipped to do it, but God was equipping him as he went. The people cursed him and balked his leadership. And yet, he trusted. He trusted the God of his fathers, and he believed that God would get them there.

I may not be a grumbling nation, but I can be a grumbling wife to my own Moses. When I complain and test my husband, I make his road harder. His is a road full of great responsibility and roadblocks that he has to overcome, and the desire of my life is to encourage him and strengthen him through this journey by serving him. But I am a poor example of this. I only fall on my knees once again and ask for his forgiveness and God's forgiveness.

And then I remember how faithful God is, to a grumbling nation -

All the congregation of the people of Israel moved on from the wilderness of Sin
by stages, according to the commandment of the LORD, and camped at Rephidim, but
there was no water for the people to drink. 2Therefore the people quarreled with
Moses and said, "Give us water to drink." And Moses said to them, "Why do you
quarrel with me? Why do you test the LORD?" 3But the people thirsted there for
water, and the people grumbled against Moses and said, "Why did you bring us up
out of Egypt, to kill us and our children and our livestock with thirst?" 4So
Moses cried to the LORD, "What shall I do with this people? They are almost
ready to stone me."

5And the LORD said to Moses, "Pass on before the people,
taking with you some of the elders of Israel, and take in your hand the staff
with which you struck the Nile, and go. 6 Behold, I will stand before you there
on the rock at Horeb, and you shall strike the rock, and water shall come out of
it, and the people will drink." And Moses did so, in the sight of the elders of
Israel. 7And he called the name of the place Massah and Meribah, because of the
quarreling of the people of Israel, and because they tested the LORD by saying,
"Is the LORD among us or not?"

**He, the faithful God who gave the Israelites water from the rock, is our Rock who sent his Son to be struck so that His saving blood would flow over us, cleansing and purifying our sinfulness and lack of faith.**

Cornbread

2008-02-21T07:33:00.003-06:00

I love cornbread.

I could eat mounds and mounds of it, daily if I had a chance. (Good thing I don't! ;)

This recipe from allrecipes.com was so good, so sweet and yummy that it could even stand on its own two feet without butter and honey. But then again, I guess that's just my opinion ;)

Grandmother's (not mine, somebody's) Buttermilk Cornbread

Ingredients:

1/4 pound butter
2/3 cup white sugar
2 eggs
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup cornmeal
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease an 8 inch square pan.
Melt butter in large skillet. Remove from heat and stir in sugar. Quickly add eggs and beat until well blended. Combine buttermilk with baking soda and stir into mixture in pan. Stir in cornmeal, flour, and salt until well blended and few lumps remain. Pour batter into the prepared pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Wrapped around my finger

2008-02-20T21:53:00.004-06:00

Beloved

This is the meaning of my name - Amy - and what a precious reminder to me.

Sometimes I manage to forget that I am chosen, called, and beloved of God. How could I ever doubt any of these is beyond me, but there it is. I forget, or rather, I disbelieve.

Remembering a moment of tearful doubt, I once confessed to my husband that I was having a really hard time believing in the love he had/has for me. This was a painful admission, and a weak moment that Satan delighted in, took opportunity in, and pounced upon.

My warrior fought for me when he told me to look at the set of rings on my finger. The shape of round. Circles that endlessly turn, continuous until breaking for a beautiful diamond tightly clenched in the middle. The diamond is the love that the Lord perfects as we grow more united in marriage, and the band is the commitment that we have made to each other, and that God has made to us.

And this is how the Lord loves His children.

Amy, I am never letting you go. I love you, you are My beloved.

Coming up slow

2008-02-20T07:40:00.003-06:00

like the sun on a muggy day, I am I am . . .

I am not liking this one bit - this humidity, this mugginess, this lethargic start to the morning. One might attribute this to the fact that I sipped some caffeinated soda last night (shock! To get me through BSF class night) I was still awake at 11 - which went on to 12:30.

I watched guys' finals for American Idol and believe that I have narrowed it to a few favorites. There is some pretty darn good talent this season. I am going to wait till the girls compete to make my final pics.

I hear we are supposed to have an eclipse tonight. Do I have to get out of the state of cloudy Texas to see it?

Middle Name Game

2008-02-19T07:33:00.004-06:00

*Every answer must begin with 1st letter of your middle name ;)

1. Middle name: CHRISTINE
2. Famous artist/band/musician: COLDPLAY
3. 4-letter word: CRAM
4. U.S state: CALIFORNIA
5. Boy name: COLTON
6. Girl name: CECILIA
7. Animal: CRAB
8. Something in the kitchen: CHEDDAR CHEESE
9. Reason for being late: CRUSHED MY FINGERS IN THE CAR DOOR, CAR CRASH
10. Body Part: CURVES ;)
11. Drink: COKE
12. Something you shout: CRUD!
13. Something you eat: CHOCOLATE ;)

Strawberries and Sunsets

2008-02-18T17:26:00.003-06:00

I made chocolate-dipped strawberries this past weekend. Accompanied by brownies, we had some sweet post-Valentine's treats. . .

But the sweetest thing was this stunning sunset we saw on our walk :)

My Valentino

2008-02-18T17:02:00.004-06:00

On Love Day, I received a lovely surprise at work. . . a special delivery from Pro Flowers - from my very sweet Valentine ;) Though we were apart that day, he made me beam from ear to ear.

They were lovely - thank you Lovey :)

Creative Splurts

2008-02-15T15:27:00.003-06:00

Just so you know - I am doing some 'blogscaping' right now - we'll be a little bit under construction for awhile, while I get these links back up ;)

Happy Valentine's Day!

2008-02-14T07:24:00.004-06:00

Looking back

2008-02-13T20:05:00.002-06:00

If I had a penny for every time I looked back. . .

I'd be filthy stinking rich right now.

So what? Looking back is normal, right?

I guess it depends on how you are looking back. I really wish that I could focus on the warm memories. There are lots of shadows that cloud the sunshine though. But the grace of God is evident through the cloud-cover. The blessings are endless, all the way around.

Sometimes I wonder how things might have been if this or that didn't change. . . life would be so completely different, so completely not what God has set out for this life. And that brings me to these things called memories. Memories are like photos. Still life. Time, frozen.

Some of these photos strike the core of me, making me feel everything in that moment all over again. And then I have a lot of pictures that baffle me, what was so important to me then is now so trivial now.

But at some point, you have to put those pictures away, slipping them back into an album, or a box, tucking them in an envelope or putting the frame back on the wall. You walk away and you thank the Lord for yesterday, but you embrace today and you look longingly toward the future.

A time for everything

2008-02-11T07:48:00.000-06:00

There is a time to sleep . . . and a time to wake up . . .

Unfortunately, as I sip DECAF coffee it is the time to wake up.

Even Hector isn't a Monday kind of dog

Bleh - okay, here we go. Off to a new week

Whole

2008-02-07T07:33:00.000-06:00

Oh the goodness of tea -

Though, I am still a 'coffee-adorer", the black bean has now become that rich, chocolate truffle that is a special treat.
Hot water is now humming in my tea kettle, ready to squeal at any given moment.
I love the process of how we have to heat the water to make tea, the steeping of the tea bag in the scalding water, and that first sip, which burns just the tip of your tongue. The infusions of flavor, the sweet smell, the soothing feel down your throat . . .

Yes, I am loving tea. It is some kind of wonderful wholesome goodness.

And this is my beloved

2008-02-06T22:35:00.000-06:00

Words cannot express how much I love you Haven. You are my warrior and my hero.

Rest well - I really miss you

So sleepy

2008-02-06T06:52:00.000-06:00

I dunno how I am gonna make it today . . . all that is running through my head is a strong, black, caffeinated cup of coffee. . .

Good thing I am committed. I am going to make it. Don't worry.

To set you at ease, here's a random quote for the day -

"futility is two bald men fighting over a comb"

Cheers :)

Aqua

2008-02-04T21:39:00.000-06:00

We painted the 2nd bedroom this past weekend. We covered the tiara, flowers, swirls, yellow, pink and magenta . . .

with a cool and crisp CRYSTAL AQUA!

(This room has yet to be occupied by a baby, so, in the meantime, we are going to make it an office and workout room :)

Oops

2008-02-04T21:18:00.000-06:00

The other day, I acted without thinking. Well, this is not really a rare thing I guess, but this particular thing was completely mindless of me. . .

Sigh

Well, here goes. . .

I was sitting at my desk at work, when a young teenage girl walked in the door with a box full of something. While normally I would shue her away like any other vendor, her youth and sweet smile kept me from pushing her out the door.

She was friendly and conversational, and said that she was part of a group that was selling these stained-glass-like designs made from shells from the Philippines to raise money for character leadership training.

pretty ain't it?

Now, if I was not so absorbed in leafing through the wares, I would have been more attentive to what the organization actually was.

But no

I had to be hasty and impulsive, and buy the sun catcher above for a rip-off of $25, only to realize later, as I glanced at the bookmark she had left with me, what I had just supported. . .

Which read:

Our activities are motivated by the Five Universal Principles for Peace:

1. There is one God who is the Creator of all and the Parent of humankind (check - agreed)
2. Human beings are essentially spiritual in nature (okay)
3. The family is the "School of Love" and Cornerstone for World Peace (m'kay . . . ?)
4. The Highest Standard for relationships is to "live for the sake of others" (alright)
5. Inter-religious and international cooperation are essential to world peace. (???)

I feel like I just read something off a starbucks cup. . .

Oh dear. Think girl, THINK!

The Need

2008-02-04T07:47:00.000-06:00

21Jesus went away from there, and withdrew into the district of Tyre and Sidon. 22And a Canaanite woman from that region came out and began to cry out, saying, "Have mercy on me, Lord, Son of David; my daughter is cruelly demon-possessed." 23But He did not answer her a word. And His disciples came and implored Him, saying, "Send her away, because she keeps shouting at us." 24But He answered and said, "I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel." 25But she came and began to bow down before Him, saying, "Lord, help me!" 26And He answered and said, "It is not good to take the children's bread and throw it to the dogs."27But she said, "Yes, Lord; but even the dogs feed on the crumbs which fall from their masters' table." 28Then Jesus said to her, "O woman, your faith is great; it shall be done for you as you wish." And her daughter was healed at once.

Looking at this passage for this week's lesson for bsf seemed like perfect timing. My soul is weary.
This past month has been incredibly difficult, with many reasons I cannot convey to you. All that I can convey is that God took us through a storm and we are now in a calm again. Through this time of testing, I was tempted to turn away from God with my lack of faith. But His hold is secure on His chosen, and He bolted me firmly.

Going back to this passage, it emotionally overwhelms me that God acknowledged the faith of a Canaanite, one not of His chosen, and yet she believed. She had persistent faith- she had quick wit to say that 'even the master's dogs feed on the crumbs . . . ' She was so eager for anything, anything that the Lord would give to her. And what she desired was not for herself, but her daughter.

"O woman, your faith is great"

Oh to be like that - to tug at the robe of Jesus, daily in prayer. I have needs, I have anxieties and concerns, and I hunger for righteousness. I have doubts, and I have sin but He collects that garbage and folds me in His embrace.

Goodmorning Wednesday

2008-01-30T07:38:00.000-06:00

We are not quite at the week's end, but getting there, slowly, surely, in a turtle-like manner.
Wednesday draws even closer to Thursday. Do you know what Thursday is? LOST returns!!!

You would think, as I have been snagged with American Idol, that I should demonstrate a little restraint and limit my shows. I would like to call attention to tv networking for making these stupid shows so addictive!

So, its not my fault . . . entirely.

And while we are on this 'watching' thing - go see Juno - it is such a refreshing film. Haven and I really enjoyed Ellen Page's work of playing a pregnant teen. It was a witty movie - heartwarming too. :)

Random

2008-01-29T07:37:00.000-06:00

Okay - Em tagged me. . .
I am lazy about these things - they are fun and mindless, and sometimes annoying. I am not putting anyone up to doing it. Do as you will.

My 6 things are.....

1) I can't blow my gum into a bubble. I've tried. I just can't do it. :(

2) I used to pretend I was a unicorn when I was little (this strange fascination with unicorns stopped at 8, I think) ;)

3) I have never gotten a massage because I don't liked to be touched by other people (except for my hubster)

4) Someday, I want to get another horse.

5) My toes are crooked :(

6) I can't believe this was my sister's answer to this question:

6)If I weren't a Christian, I'd be a hippy in Santa Cruz california--dreadlocks, grass skirts, hand-painted VW van, a pet ferret, and a beat up guitar.

Splat

2008-01-27T19:36:00.000-06:00

H and I decided to do somethin' kinda fun. Somethin' we've been wanting to do for a while. Somethin' all True San Antonians must do at some point or another - go see a Spurs game.

So to online to ticketmaster, we went . . .

Tickets for two - much money was spent . . .

We hopped in the car and went to the little basketball kingdom downtown. Our seats were great (despite the man drenched in cologne next to me who liked to spread himself out).

Its been sometime since I'd gone to a game - and it was Haven's first. We were optimistic as the Spurs had won the last two games, and the first two quarters were going pretty well, with the men in white keeping the Hornets at bay.
And just when we were getting settled into our seats with some soft serve ice cream and peanuts, New Orleans stung. Hard.

Third quarter was really painful. Our little team began swelling.

We thought the Spurs would make their usual comeback - it was their court after all. We were going to show them' Hornets whose territory they were on. . .
But the swelling got worse. And the fourth quarter came with no relief.

It was horrible.

We left 6 minutes early, shocked and disappointed. They were supposed to win this game. This was OUR game.

We opened the paper this morning to see that it was the worst home game loss for them in history. And we were there.

At least we were part of the history.

102 - Hornets
78 - Spurs

No SPURS, NO!!! :(

Buh-Bye Energy Bean

2008-01-23T21:25:00.001-06:00

Well, I've given it up . . .
The energy bean, I mean . . . caffeine.

What? Huh? Cold Turkey???

Yep

I realized how much I consumed each day, and I know that it hasn't helped me. I already survived the day one (the worst!) and day 2 has been so much better. I feel so good. I have been drinking juice and ice water, and enough tea to make me have to use the facilities at least 15 times a day.

What I wanted to know when I first started this was, were there any exceptions?

Yes - Sunday morning - coffee with caffeine. And chocolate has NOT been eliminated. My body would go into too much shock if I did that. I am severely cutting back though.

We'll see how this goes -
in the meantime, my coffee cup is empty and my teacup is full :)

Pearl

2008-01-21T07:43:00.000-06:00

This week, our study of Matthew weaves through the parables of the mustard seed, yeast, man who finds the treasure in the field, merchant who finds the rare pearls, and the fish net.

Many stories convey the unchanging and compelling purpose of Christ's message, to proclaim the Truth. Of the many things to look at , this one is so dear: the worth of salvation is priceless, to deny it is misery, but to embrace it . . .

And this is what I love especially. . .

How Jesus Christ gave up His life for His Bride, His Pearl.

How He sought her and bought her, as the man who found the treasure in the field.

How He gave up everything, so that we might be saved.
What a Redeemer, who becomes our Precious Treasure, Our Priceless Pearl.

Soul Soak

2008-01-20T20:29:00.001-06:00

This week, I have found myself slipping into my tub more than usual. Like a tea bag, I gladly dunk myself into a tub of hot water and bubbles, close my eyes and forget problems of the day.

Its a wonderful soul retreat.

I surround myself with bubble baths, candles, soaps, and scrubbies, and only wish that I could stay in longer without getting pruney.

I have found the same solace and peace (if not even more - you know what, MORE) in soaking my soul in the Word in the morning, complete with a delicious cup of tea. Its a great waker-upper, a pleasant start to any tough morning too.

I have re-arranged my crazy morning schedule to meet with the Lord first, rather than midday. He has given me such joyful mornings since I have changed, I am convicted that I have not done this sooner.
Sometimes it takes a new year to realize the routines that you have fallen into may not be the best things for your Christian growth. I am thankful for His hand on me, steering my thirsty soul to a deep well to soak in.

Dunk me in.

Up & at'em

2008-01-17T07:28:00.000-06:00

Its COLD COLD COLD!!!

High today is supposed to be around 45 and it ain't going up much past that. Brrrrr!

Good thing I have a furry little feet-warmer curled up below me - ;)

this was today's reading in Streams -

Trust in His Promises

"God...calleth those things which be not as though they were" (Rom. 4:17).
What does that mean? Why Abraham did this thing: he dared to believe God. It seemed an impossibility at his age that Abraham should become the father of a child; it looked incredible; and yet God called him a "father of many nations" before there was a sign of a child; and so Abraham called himself "father" because God called him so. That is faith; it is to believe and assert what God says. "Faith steps on seeming void, and finds the rock beneath."
Only say you have what God says you have, and He will make good to you all you believe. Only it must be real faith, all there is in you must go over in that act of faith to God. --Crumbs
Be willing to live by believing and neither think nor desire to live in any other way. Be willing to see every outward light extinguished, to see the eclipse of every star in the blue heavens, leaving nothing but darkness and perils around, if God will only leave in thy soul the inner radiance, the pure bright lamp which faith has kindled. --Thomas C. Upham
The moment has come when you must get off the perch of distrust, out of the nest of seeming safety, and onto the wings of faith; just such a time as comes to the bird when it must begin to try the air. It may seem as though you must drop to the earth; so it may seem to the fledgling. It, too, may feel very like falling; but it does not fall--it's pinions give it support, or, if they fail, the parent birds sweeps under and bears it upon its wings. Even so will God bear you. Only trust Him; "thou shalt be holden up." "Well, but," you say, "am I to cast myself upon nothing?" That is what the bird seems to have to do; but we know the air is there, and the air is not so unsubstantial as it seems. And you know the promises of God are there, and they are not unsubstantial at all. "But it seems an unlikely thing to come about that my poor weak soul should be girded with such strength." Has God said it shall? "That my tempted, yielding nature shall be victor in the strife." Has God said it shall? "That my timorous, trembling heart shall find peace?" Has God said it shall? for, if He has, you surely do not mean to give Him the lie! Hath he spoken, and shall He not do it? If you have gotten a word --"a sure word" of promise--take it implicitly, trust it absolutely. And this sure word you have; nay, you have more--you have Him who speaks the word confidently. "Yea, I say unto you," trust Him. --J. B. Figgis, M. A.

Aliens love Texas

2008-01-16T07:48:00.000-06:00

Apparently

At least Stephenville-ites seem to think so . . .

Why I should NOT casually browse into Williams-Sonoma on my lunch break . . .

2008-01-16T07:37:00.000-06:00

Mom got one of these to crush her pain meds - It was so fun that I think I want one too ;)

This color scheme delighted me - the pattern is a little busy - dunno if the husband would like ;)

This cooker looks positively splendid - and it'd better be, given the price ;)

Icy Predica-moose

2008-01-15T07:41:00.000-06:00

Didn't this big guy know its not swimming season?

Crybaby

2008-01-14T18:30:00.000-06:00

There have been many tears this past weekend.

The loss of a sweet loved one (my stepfather's mother& my adopted Grandmother) has been the biggest grief-giver. And yet, we are grateful to know that she lives eternally with our Saviour. I am so thankful that God provided a flight right away for my parents to be there before her passing.
Haven and I took their two little boston terriers for a while, and while they were here, there was much romping around with our Hector.

We had a quiet weekend, well, minus our night at the Alamodome for Monster Jam ;)

(Yes, we like Monster Truck rallies - they're a blast ;)

We rented another set of 24 (we are working our way through season six.

We had snacky dinners, happy puppies and lots of vegging out.

We just needed it.

Haven dropped by my work tonight, at the end of the day to say goodbye for the week.
I can't remember the last time I cried so much. I contained it until after I left work, and like a ticking time bomb, I sort of exploded in the car driving home. Its not like he's going away for a month - he'll be back on Friday. Its not like we haven't spent any time together at all this past month either.

Its just that I love him.

The God who is Love gives us love that gets richer, deeper, better, and sweeter with time. The hard things we've gone through with this crazy job of his has made the reward of being together all the greater. I am just one big ball of drippy black mascara and snot and streaky tears.

One big happy crybaby.

Fit Zone

2008-01-13T17:05:00.001-06:00

I had to toot the horn for the best site ever for getting toning exercises & instruction. Kudos for MSN for coming up with such an ingenious way to get your butt movin' ;)

Enter the FIT ZONE

Cute Kitchen Ware

2008-01-11T13:18:00.000-06:00

While browsing around Target today on my lunch break, I saw the cutest kitchen gadgets, sure to put some fun in your potato-peeling, butter-spreading and ice-cream scoopin' ;)

I just love the designs and creativity - and their prices aren't horrible - just don't ask me if they actually work ;)

The full line is at this link HERE

FRIDAY

2008-01-11T06:49:00.000-06:00

WOHOO!!!

We made it . . . FINALLY!

Key Keeper

2008-01-10T19:17:00.000-06:00

This reading warmed my soul this morning - I hope it warms yours as well :)

Is there some problem in your life to solve,
Some passage seeming full of mystery?
God knows, who brings the hidden things to light.
He keeps the key.

Is there some door closed by the Father's hand
Which widely opened you had hoped to see?
Trust God and wait - for when He shuts the door
He keeps the key.

Is there some earnest prayer unanswered yet,
Or answered NOT as you had thought 'twould be?
God will make clear His purpose by and by.
He keeps the key.

Have patience with God, your patient God,
All wise, all knowing, no long lingerer He,
And of the door of all your future life
He keeps the key.

Unfailing comfort, sweet and blessed rest,
To know of EVERY door He keeps the key.
That He at last when just He sees is best
Will give it to THEE.

~ Anonymous ~

It makes me smile

2008-01-09T18:43:00.001-06:00

Driving home from work this evening, I noticed a little white Subaru legacy wagon in the lane next to me. . .

I had to smile.
The familiarity was somewhat bittersweet.
Haven just sold his a month or so ago. That car got him from Seattle to Texas, and back and forth faithfully as a commuter car.

I reminisced.

And then I sped past him in my dark blue wheels.

He's got the whole world in His hands

2008-01-09T18:27:00.001-06:00

Last night, my co-leader and I taught our jr. highers through Matthew 12. Being our first class back from a 3 week break, we both felt so indebted to the Lord for sustaining us through all the little hiccups!
The lesson covered Jesus' replies to the Pharisee's accusations of working & healing on the sabbath, and then their blasphemies against Him by daring to align His work with Satan.

In a rather shaky lesson, I tried to illustrate how God's control over Satan and evil through a visual example, a giant hand. Although it didn't work into the lesson the way that I would have liked, I am thankful that I was able to reach all the other points of the lesson that needed to be taught.

Anyway, today I was thinking of God's Hand of control over our lives. I was especially thinking about all the areas that Haven and I pray for, think about, and worry of often. I mentally placed them in God's open hand
and then thanked Him for closing His palm around them, sealing them off from me. He has taken care of all these things.

I am so thankful for His control.
There is no better place to be than in the hands of our Potentate.

Sustenance

2008-01-09T07:37:00.000-06:00

From this morning's readings:

Psalm 3:5
I lay down and slept; I awoke, for the LORD sustains me.

Psalm 4:7
You have put gladness in my heart, More than when their grain and new wine abound.

Psalm 5:3
In the morning, O LORD, You will hear my voice; In the morning I will order my prayer to You and eagerly watch.

Putt . . . Putt

2008-01-07T12:38:00.000-06:00

Putt. . .

I am puttering 'round the house today. A headach-ey lethargy sent me home early, and I am actually quite content to be home-bodied right now. All the little projects I have been wanting to finish (and the new ones to start) are now at my fingertips.

Oh yes, so is the urge to take a nice long nap like my little pupster here. . .

Sigh.

As you can see, I've been puttering around the ol' bloggeroo too - I have discovered some really neat sites for photo cropping :)

Remember this post?

Well, today's picture for my desk calendar is a beautiful Aurora Borealis and my hubby's love note to me:

"I can't think of anyone I'd rather be married to"

Now, its sweet and simple, but the timing of this couldn't have been more perfect. I have been feeling really discouraged lately about feeling like I am inadequate in some areas and yet, the way the Lord encourages me through my loving husband brings tears of thankfulness to my eyes. It makes me go, 'Really?' It makes me feel so lucky, so blessed, so encouraged, and so loved.

I am not perfect. Nor will I ever be. But I am saved by the grace of a gracious and kind God who delights in giving His children excellent gifts.

Blogger's Block

2008-01-04T07:40:00.000-06:00

Why is it that when I do have time to blog, I am always racking my brain to find something to say??? Its like a blog fart, I say. That being said, don't get your hopes up about me blogging.

So its Friday, I am sipping the blackest cup of coffee ever and trying to organize a mental list of everything I need to do today. Uggh.

Hector is looking at me with disgust. Last night was so boring for him - A night out with my sister cost him a night out on the town (aka a walk). I thought he'd burn off that hyper-crazy energy running up and down the stairs with me. Alas, only I was tired.

Blah blah blah - I told you this was a boring post ;)

Together, we are going somewhere, farther than I can go alone . . .

2008-01-01T22:46:00.000-06:00

I rely on a lot of things to get me through the day. Things like my coffee-maker, my alarm clock, hot water, my hair dryer, a car that drives, the dishwasher, the washing machine and dryer, and the many other little comforts of everyday life.

Its the little things like these that trip me up sometimes because I rely on them. . . when they don't act in the way I want, life can get pretty frustrating. Its funny how I can use their inefficiencies as an excuse for my own shortcomings. None of these inventions are evil or bad, but using them as crutches can be harmful.

The tragedy is the way I have become lazy in the little things. Like, for instance, staying up too late, and then waking up too late, making it a mad dash for drying wet hair, filling an empty gas tank and not allowing enough time for morning traffic. Its a dreadful domino effect.

Being faithful in the little things is the most important. It cultivates that character I so desire, that productive, disciplined, godly character so treasure-able, so prized.

And this leads to something embarrassing, but pointed for the purpose of conviction.

When H is gone, I struggle with the simple things of life. . . like, getting up, going to sleep on time, and being a disciplined woman in all the other areas that require the constant daily upkeep. Having a husband is a huge and helpful blessing. He makes me get up. When he is home, I can't wait to make breakfast. When he is gone, I am lucky if I even get breakfast because I always seem to be running a hair behind.

But why do I see any excuse to be unproductive when he is gone? I need to be this way all the time, regardless of whether he is home or not. And never let me go without saying, my husband is one of the greatest blessings in my life - but the thing is, I cannot rely on him to carry the load I must myself, pick up, strap to my back and move forward. He has his own to bear. And he daily testifies of how he loves me with his desire for my personal faithfulness.

This load-carrying, burden-bearing business ain't easy - oh yeah, this was never supposed to be easy!

Its hard to wake up when the sun isn't even out. Its harder as I have gotten older. Its hard when you know you have to go to work again. Its hard because, frankly, I love my sleep (who doesn't?).

This is quickly developing into another goal for me. To get a better night's sleep, for the sake of tomorrow. I want to feel refreshed and rejuvenated, not exhausted and dragging. And I want to wake up early, and claim that 'joy in the morning'.

Life is so precious. . . don't waste a second of it. Redeem the time.

*Its late, I am going to go to bed now ;)

Happy New Year :)

2007-12-31T09:08:00.000-06:00

Can you believe that its already here? I am still trying to get over the fact that Christmas is over . . .

Other than watching 24 episodes and eating dark chocolate, I think us Hofpeeps are just gonna lay low tonight. Any parties going on??? ;)

So, resolutions - - - I normally don't go for this sort of thing, but these are more like goals anyway, and I go for goals all the time :)

-The usual - get back in shape ;)

-Get our 2nd bedroom in order. (We are looking to purchase some fitness equipment (see above ;) and make the room more like an office/workout room rather than a junk/craft/everything room ;)

-Landscape our backyard - patio/firepit/magnolia tree/gardening - the whole kit & caboodle.

-Landscape our front yard - rose garden!

-Try out new recipes!

- Have more people over (I need guinea pigs for those new recipes!)

-Visit family

- more to add later ;)

What's on your list???

Merry Christmas :)

2007-12-26T17:00:00.001-06:00

Cohoon Fam mantle - complete with some Nutcracker-action ;)

Christmas brunch at my family's - with a spread never short of deliciousness. . .

Kudos to Em for her magic hands!

Windcrest Lights

2007-12-26T17:00:00.000-06:00

Christmas Day, we took a little drive for the Windcrest Light-Up. They have some of the most magnificent Christmas lights and displays! ;)

Christmas Eve

2007-12-26T13:49:00.003-06:00

Christmas Eve, we turned off all the lights and lit all the candles around the living room - our advent candles, our mantle candles, and turned on the Christmas lights. Then, we snuggled on the couch and listened to The Festival of Carols cd that is a family tradition for Haven.

How dear this tradition has become to me. . .

This year especially, listening to it, the Lord gave me such peace and contentment as we look back on the year reflectively, and look forward to the year ahead with excitement.

Amen, God is so good to His children!

Happy Pup

2007-12-26T13:48:00.001-06:00

We truly spoiled our pup this Christmas. Well, can you blame us? He's so stinkin' cute!

I broke down and we got him a dog bed. . . he loves it - and the couch has been reclaimed by humans!

And yes, then we got him a big bone - a Texas sized bone. . .

Oh boy

;)

Nativity, Texas-Style

2007-12-26T13:47:00.001-06:00

Last week, we did something really special. After bundling up with coats, we made a quick stop at Starbucks for mochas and brownies, and then went to an event that a local church was putting on: A 'Drive-Thru Nativity'. Lines of cars weaved around the church parking lot, making stops at each point, as the story of Jesus' birth was told on a cd.

This was all free, all a ministry outreach. What a touching time!

Okay, and we did kind of joke that it was the 'Texas way' to have a 'Drive thru nativity' ;)

Click here for a link to a video someone posted on YouTube

Score!

2007-12-26T11:00:00.000-06:00

Well, now I really have NO excuse NOT to cook ;) Haven really surprised me with this KitchenAid set of pots & pans -

Thank you Honey!!!

Oh, and I just cannot fail to mention this other gift he gave me. . . at first look, its an ordinary desk calendar, but my DH wrote me something sweet on EACH day! What a guy ;)

Fourth Sunday of Advent

2007-12-23T20:52:00.000-06:00

A simple breakfast -
juice and cinnamon rolls -
&
a sweet Sabbath preparing for the celebration of the birth of of Savior :)

So Much More

2007-12-20T19:22:00.000-06:00

For those who know me, I am not a 'happy go lucky', 'always sunshine' kind of girl. Rainbows come AFTER the rain, and great views come on the TOPS of high mountains.

I feel like I have been facing many giants this past month, well, months. The 'demon of inadequacy' perfectly describes it (to borrow the words from my sister). I have posted before about feeling inadequate. Its a depressing feeling. You never feel like you are enough, you never feel like you are doing enough, and you never feel like you will ever be enough. . .

Have you ever felt that way?

It trashes every area of your life if you let it get to you. Most of the time, it stays on the surface, like a beach ball in the pool, but every once and a while it becomes lead and sinks your heart. What happens to the joy that you should have? Well honey, it goes down with you like a Roman ruin.

How does this happen? It begins with wandering. Jesus gave us the straight and narrow, but sometimes, the wide and windy looks more exciting to us. So we veer. We listen to the evil one, whispering deadly nothings into our ears - wouldn't this or that be better? We listen. We stumble. We ate the apple. We are foolish.
We doubt what God has given to us, and more importantly who He has made us. How can I forget that I am a daughter of God? It doesn't just happen by coincidence. I must confess that I chose to deny my identity in Him when I began that veering in my heart.

And in the end, the evil one laughs at me. By believing him, I only feel the burn of inadequacy, and the sting of doubt and misery. I have wandered too far to a foreign place, unknown.

Take me home again. I just want to go home again.

The Father is truly merciful. How stupid we are, how foolish! Why do you wander child? Why do you wander away from the One who loves you, who holds your identity, who claims you as His own? Why?

All those failures you feel, those feelings of inadequacy, they are wiped clean. I call you Mine, and you are adequate. You are chosen by God, you are made in His image and none other.

Don't let this world get you down. Don't give in to the evil one's words. Everything you need is in Him, our God. When you feel like a failure and you just don't feel enough, remember who you are in Him. Glorify God and enjoy Him forever. Glorify Him through loving your family, Enjoy Him through working in your job, and driving to work in sometimes gridlock traffic. Glorify Him even when you don't understand why He's brought you to a barren place and wants you to stay there for a while. Remember how faithful He always is. Enjoy Him through the changes, the hard times, the trials. He is your Purpose when you feel purposeless. He is your comfort when you are down.

And all those failures? Gone. Throw them out. And when they keep taunting you, keep throwing them out until you've licked them good. Show the world who you really are. Put on your armor and keep it on -
He has made you more than a conqueror in Him.
So much more.

Happy Birthday, Nephew Mine :)

2007-12-20T16:48:00.000-06:00

Let's celebrate!!!

Andrew David is 1 today!!!
Happy Birthday Big Boy!!!

Mend

2007-12-20T09:52:00.001-06:00

Mom had successful jaw surgery yesterday - her doctors were very pleased with how everything went. She was on the higher end of loss of blood, but a transfusion was not necessary, thank goodness.

She is probably going to be released this very afternoon. We all cannot wait to love her and get her better!

Thank you for your love and prayers!

In Dulci Jubilo

2007-12-17T23:17:00.000-06:00

In sweet rejoicing,
now sing and be glad!
All our joy
lies in the manger;
It shines like the sun
in the mother's lap.
You are the alpha and omega!

As I was helping mom with writing these touching lyrics on a poster board I couldn't help but get teary at 'All our joy lies in the manger".
What a beautiful thought, our Saviour, and our King - not just a baby, OUR JOY!!! All of our Joy is in Him! HE IS OUR JOY!!!

This past Sunday, we both woke to the sun rising in our east side window - as it was peeking through the blinds, it caught H's sleepy eyelids and he rolled over back to the fleeting night. I rose, enlivened by the morning and made some oh-so-original Betty Crocker blueberry muffins, turkey bacon, and scrambled eggs. The last time I made any of these items is too long ago to remember. All of them together - don't even ask . . . maybe in the early days of our marriage. The simplicity of the morning made it easier for us to reflect on our Scripture readings and each other. After all, Sabbath meals should NOT be stressful.

Beautiful rest and renewal got us off to a new week, and we are all going to need it this week. Especially my precious mom, who is having jaw surgery this Wednesday to help cure her sleep apnea. Please keep her in your prayers - it will be a long road to complete recovery.

Thank you! May He be your Joy this week!!!

Cold, Wet and Sniffy

2007-12-14T13:34:00.000-06:00

No, we are not sick. Just a little sniffy. Mountain cedar seems to be confused. The weather is warm, then wet and cold. It blooms, spreads pollen, and then shrinks. We are happy when it shrinks. Unfortunately, allergies just seem to be year-round here in ol' San Antone.

And speaking of slumps - our poor Spurs are down with our two best players gimping with sprained ankles. . . 2 losses = sad times :( We still love 'em though!

Its been raining all day, tidge on the nippish side of things. Coat weather makes me happy :) H and I dream of getting back to the northwest someday, where days like these are the norm.

Don't worry Texas, we are still here and will be here for a while :)

I tasted the worst thing yet this season. Trying to get in the 'spirit' foodwise, I tried Sonic's new peppermint blast - BLEH!!!! I think that the biggest turnoff was the gaggy "mint" green color (more like green food coloring not all the way mixed).

Gag. The taste was too vile to post.

What possessed me to venture into peppermint land anyway?

Happy Birthday Mom!!!

2007-12-12T10:47:00.001-06:00

Its been quite some time since I last had a 'birthday post'. It's high time, don'tcha think!? ;)

Today is my dear Mother's birthday - I will not disclose her age ;)

She is a wonderful woman, a daughter of the King, a beloved Wife, Mother to 7, Grandmother to 2, a Teacher, a Mentor, and a Friend and so many other things.

Mom, you are SOOO LOVED!!!!

Happy Birthday to you, I am so glad that you are my Mother!

I can't wait to celebrate you later! :)

2nd Sunday of Advent

2007-12-10T20:06:00.000-06:00

How refreshing this Sunday was for us - an easy morning, waking up renewed, and me not worrying about putting breakfast on the table. This recipe was so simple and delicious!

We lit candle #2 and enjoyed Scripture readings and enjoying eachother's company over coffee and a little toaste francaise ;)

The whole day was a realization of God's love and the rich depth of His blessings through the fellowship of friends and family - What a gracious Giver!

Christmas Blessings

2007-12-09T19:55:00.000-06:00

What sweet surprises have come our way, making our Christmas so merry this year -

Thank you Grammy - the bells are lovely! Seeing you was the best gift of all!

Thank you Dad and Laurel - we love our Spode dishes!

Its beginning to look a lot like Christmas . . .

2007-12-06T07:52:00.001-06:00

Christmas Decorating :)

We need a stocking for our pup ;)

WOHOO!

2007-12-06T07:51:00.000-06:00

We kicked 'em back to Dallas!!!

Tonight . . .

2007-12-05T07:03:00.000-06:00

A Big ol' Texas rivalry is going to take place . . .

GO SPURS GO!!!

First Sunday of Advent

2007-12-02T20:03:00.000-06:00

Isaiah 9:6

6For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

After decorating and getting our tree up last night, I felt a little more 'christmasy' (more pictures to come). I guess it really doesn't take all that much. I do love this time of year. But most of all, I love the rich depth we find in remembering Jesus Christ's birth, and all the exciting prophecies of old leading up to it.

This morning, we reflected over these things with some passages of Scripture H had pulled out. It touched me even more deeply this time upon reading because we are going through Matthew in BSF this year. All the new things I am learning through the training I am receiving and through teaching these kids is extremely precious.

I had risen early and made Mandelkrans (*see previous post) and we lit our first candle in our red candle wreath that I uncovered in our unpacking ;) (A little red spray paint made it look more festive.)

Oh yes, a little about the Mandelkrans -

I felt like I was wrestling the dough for 15 minutes of tiring kneading and pulling, stretching and rolling. The dough was just not how I expected it would be. But it finally became malleable enough for me to drape over a bundt pan and fill with a crushed almond and craisin mixture. It tasted delicious. It was a lot of work though ;)

I think next Sunday I am going to try this recipe I saw on Rachel Ray last week :) Looks a little easier - and I love french toast!

French Toast Cups with Fresh Fruit and Cream

Nonstick cooking spray
3 eggs
1 tablespoon milk
2 teaspoons cinnamon
Dash of vanilla extract, optional
Dash of fresh nutmeg, optional
8 slices white or wheat sandwich bread
1 pint fresh berries such as strawberries, blueberries, blackberries or raspberries
Whipped cream

Preparation

Preheat oven to 375ºF.

Spray the inside of each cup of a 6-cup muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.

In a medium-size mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cinnamon, vanilla and nutmeg. Cut a slit in the corner of each slice of bread from the middle of the slice to the edge.

Dip each slice of bread in the egg mixture then lightly press it into a cup of the muffin tin, overlapping the pieces where you cut the slit to make it fit into the cup without tearing.

Bake the French toast cups for 12-14 minutes, until they're light golden brown.

Allow the cups to cool slightly in the muffin tin before removing them. To serve, arrange the cups on a platter and fill each one with fresh fruit and top with whipped cream.

Hope you had a blessed Sabbath!

Sweet

2007-11-30T22:20:00.000-06:00

While researching some fun Christmas recipes, I stumbled on this goldmine of a recipe site - mindspring.com.I did find something rather delicious, which I am very eager to try out on my hubby. I'll let you know how it goes - this looked a little more complicated than the twisted bread recipe I mentioned (which is (as I remember it) basically bread dough twisted together and glazed in a butter/sugar mixture and baked till golden) but sounds even more delicious.

Almond Pastry Ring - Mandelkrans

Makes 1 large or 2 small

4 cups flour
2 eggs -- beaten
4 tablespoons sour cream
2 tablespoons white wine
½ teaspoon salt
1 package dry yeast
½ cup warm water
2 cups butter

1 cup raisins -- coarsely ground (hmm . . . not a big raisin fan - maybe I'll try craisins :)
6 tablespoons sugar
6 tablespoons almonds -- finely chopped
1 lemon rind -- grated
6 eggs -- beaten
2 egg yolk -- optional
2 tablespoons almonds -- ground

8 egg whites -- beaten stiff
1 cup sugar
¼ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
1 cup almonds -- ground

PASTRY RING

Mix flour, eggs, sour cream, wine and salt, blending well.

Soften the yeast in the water. Add to above mixture and blend well.

Knead until bubbles appear on the dough.

Roll out to ¼-inch thickness. Place the butter on the dough, fold over completely, sprinkle with flour, roll and beat gently with the hands until very flat.

Fold the 4 corners envelope style to the center of the dough and roll very thin. Repeat this procedure 4 times. The dough will be very flaky and rich. To make the ring for which the Danes are famous, fill as follows:

FILLING

Blend first five ingredients together well. Line a baking ring pan with half of the pastry dough. Place filling over this evenly. Cover with rest of pastry dough.

Brush with the beaten egg yolks and ground almonds to make the ring more decorative if you wish.

Let rise until doubled in bulk in a warm place.

Bake 40 minutes in a preheated 325º oven.

Grab Bag

2007-11-29T21:22:00.000-06:00

My tummy is warm and full from delicious creamy tomato & basil soup and a grilled cheese sandwich (thank you Steph, you sweetie :)

I just pulled on my jammies and I am determined to go to bed before 11 tonight. . . we'll see if I hold to that - I have to get some laundry done first.

I am looking down at my napping pup - he was rather frustrated with me earlier because I wasn't playing with him. Poor little guy wore himself out being agitated. Now his little belly is sticking out from his sideways position as he snores. He reminds me of a college student, with his ability to sleep anywhere at anytime.

This Sunday is the first Advent - I am contemplating how to make it special. We have a candle wreath somewhere in our junk room - I cringe at the thought of trying to find it.

And food, yes, the food. I always look forward to the food. ;)

I am eager to twist some sweet bread braids this year. I think I have only made twisty bread once, a long while ago.

I am starting to get into the Christmas spirit, slowly, I have one more day to enjoy some sanity.

My lovey comes home tomorrow!

Christmas Delirium

2007-11-29T07:41:00.000-06:00

I am confused.

When I walk around our neighborhood, I have to remind myself that Christmas is in 25 days and not tomorrow. But when I see people decorating in in flurries with their lights, electrical reindeer, snowflakes and santas, I can't help feeling a little 'behind'.

Am I strange in that I usually wait till December to decorate? Or that we usually get our tree the 2nd weekend of December or so?

I know that there is no rule of thumb (except for goodness' sake, wait until AFTER Thanksgiving to bring out the trimmings), but I feel off the wagon on this one. And the thing is, I am not going to change either.

We are still in November, right?

I'll see you in a couple days. . .

Just for laughs, of course

2007-11-27T07:59:00.000-06:00

My hubby sent me an email with a link to a sled dogging supply, er, I mean, dog sledding site.

We are contemplating a great future for our canine . . . who cares if he's a lab amongst huskies?

* before you worry your little heads off, no, we are not really submitting our house pet to a life of snow-paws and confused identity - we will all stay nice and warm inside.

Jack Frost, you got my number

2007-11-21T22:05:00.001-06:00

A cold front is moving in - fast-paced, loud and dramatic - winter's grand entrance.

Hector and I bundled up and went out to meet it. We skipped through the late fall leaves and tried not to get swept away. The rain is soon to follow, but we are now snuggly in our warm little house.

I am doing laundry and watching a delightful movie called 'Band Wagon' - a Fred Astaire movie I have not yet seen :)

The house is almost clean, and I am excited that tomorrow is Thanksgiving. Mom always creates such a feast and I am eager to get over in the morning to help her.

Haven comes home tomorrow afternoon - he has a four day weekend - the poor guy will probably spend most of that just trying to get over the flu he caught :(

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone! May God richly bless you with His love through feasting and fellowship!

And one more thing . . .

2007-11-20T12:35:00.000-06:00

Phew . . .

Today I was cleared from this charge :)

Things to be Thankful For

2007-11-19T07:38:00.000-06:00

Its Thanksgiving week, and today I was beginning to reflect upon some things that I am really thankful for

Like:

God's hand over my life, and the privilege it is to be His daughter.

A Husband who loves the Lord, loves me and works so hard for us

Our families and friends daily reminding us of God's love

Provisions of a roof overhead, transportation, food, financial blessings

Just a few things, and there are so many more I could say. . .

Thank you Lord for Your Faithfulness!!!

Pooch Pillow

2007-11-16T10:37:00.000-06:00

UPDATE: This looked hopeful ;)

*****************************************************************************************

Okay, to my dog-loving audience - (or, to those who love sewing things of this nature)

I have a little problem. He's my four-legged, adorable, BUT shedding monster who sleeps on our couch. I don't like this one bit. I always make sure that I have a protective sheet over the couch, but I am getting tired of spoiling him like this. Plus, I really want my couch back! And fur-free!

I want to make this pup his own place to plop. I am reluctant to throw down $60-100+ for a dog pillow, and I am feeling like it'd be fun to make a him cedar chip-filled pillow, just in time for Christmas. Strong fabric is a must - chew-proof would be nice too.

Any ideas? Thoughts? 'Amy-just go out and buy a dang dog pillow' s? ;)

Thoughts for this morning

2007-11-16T07:41:00.000-06:00

My oh my, its a chilly day here. Chills being in the mid-40's (which seems the freezing point for us Texans) I am well aware of REAL COLD, mind you, I lived in Northern Idaho for 4 years. ;)

This morning I was encouraged by a little piece that Nancy Wilson posted. It was kind of convicting for me to read, actually.

Being at this 'phase' of life, I often feel like I am just a tree waiting to produce. Now that seems weird, but the status of being married and yet unchildrened sometimes makes you feel a little dormant in the fruit department. But this was again, convicting to read:

Women tend to think that children are the only kind of fruit there is. And, of course, those little olive shoots around the table are as fruity as can be. But for the unmarried woman, or for the wife without children, you must consider that God has other ways for you to bear fruit if He has not yet given you children.

The entire post is worth reading :)

H is for . . .

2007-11-14T10:17:00.000-06:00

Haven, Hector, Hofwoman, House

Hofman

We seem a little partial to the letter

H

Here's the newest addition to our little collection

Which stands for

:)

Hi, my name is Accord.

I was born in 2004, but I still am young and full of spirit.

I have 33k.

I had kind of a big price tag but my parents said I was worth it.

I'm glad.

I'll take care of my owners better than those other wheels they were driving.

Yawn

2007-11-14T07:52:00.000-06:00

So sleepy

So sleepy

SOOOO SLEEPY

MUST . . . wake . . . up

NEED COFFEE . . .

NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Humility, at 4am Lord?

2007-11-12T07:28:00.001-06:00

This morning was just another reason why I need to seek a new heart from the Lord every MOMENT. . .
It began as it usually does - an alarm sounding at a painful 3 am; me, groggily waking up and trying not to wake my hubby. I pull on my gym pants and a big tee and gather a water bottle and a towel. Oh yeah, and keys. Oh, and my purse.

I then drive about 1/2 mile down the road to my little gym.

Now, there are seldom few who come to the gym at this time. I enjoy the peace and solitude, and the sole possession of the elliptical trainer that everybody likes. Its a funny thing, because there are 5 other elliptical trainers, but just not like This One. So, its sometimes a flip when I walk in to find that its in use.

I am a sharing person. At least I thought so.

Last Friday, there was a woman using it when I came in. She's a regular, and I also discovered that she works at our local HEB store in the deli department. We seem to get this everyother day. I get it first, so she treadmills, or she gets it first, so I treadmill. Its just not exactly what either of us want. We both want that stupid machine.

So, last Friday, I was grumbly. I was ultra grumbly because by the time I got to the gym, saw that she was on the machine through the window, and opened my car door, I realized that I had forgotten my swipe key at home. When I got back to the gym, she was still on it. I really had a bad attitude. I got on the treadmill facing the other direction and stomped out the frustration I was batting around. It was the crummiest workout ever because of my stinky attitude.

So this morning, I got there first. I got on the machine and waited for her to arrive. 15 minutes passed and then I saw her pull up. I suddenly felt uncomfortable and sheepish. I was acting like such a child hoarding this stupid machine. She got on the treadmill and I kept ellipticalling. I stopped at 30 minutes, 15 minutes short of what I usually do, and I got on another treadmill. I felt comfortable again. She didn't get on the elliptical trainer this morning, but I know she probably wanted to.

Its kind of a silly thing I guess, but its a my life for yours thing. I feel convicted when I think of how I have been acting, and what kind of witness I being. It reminds me that the Lord never shuts His eye on His children. He is constantly at work in our hearts, changing stinky attitudes to attitudes that are giving and loving.

Thank you Lord for your reproof, yes, even at 4 am

Waffles

2007-11-11T09:16:00.000-06:00

This waffle recipe was lip-smacking good ;) The recipe is not mine, but belongs in an awesome cookbook called Hot Providence (many can attest to it!).

Grandpa's Waffles, submitted by Rachel Hoffmann

2 cups flour
4 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups milk
1/2 cup oil
2 eggs

Preheat waffle iron or skillet. Sift together all dry ingredients and make a well in the center. Separate the two eggs, placing the whites into a 1 quart bowl and the yolks into a 2 quart bowl. Beat egg whites until stiff. Set aside. Measure the milk and oil, add to the egg yolks. Beat until frothy and pour into the well of dry ingredients. Beat only until mixed. Add egg whites and fold in gently until creamy. Let stand for 3 to 4 minutes. Cook.

*This made about 8 or 9 waffles for us. Course, we have a smallish heart shaped waffle-iron ;), so maybe 4 for a regular.

**I topped this with hot cinnamon apples :) It was MMMmm good!!!

Prayer

2007-11-11T09:10:00.001-06:00

For Kelli
(Click to link to her blog)

She is such a sweet spirit, and a dear friend of our family. Please pray for her if you get a chance. Pray that God would lift her pain and her spirits, and provide for her financially.

Thank you

8 Things Random

2007-11-10T17:03:00.000-06:00

Kristine tagged me for this:

I was born in Fresno, California - known as the 'Raisin Capital of the World'
Mom said that I didn't cry after I was born, I just looked around at the world
I love to figure skate and rollerblade
I used to watch soap operas when I babysat
I've driven the wrong way on a one way - on purpose
I have always wanted to go skydiving, but I am kind of a chicken
I played the violin when I was younger, but it didn't last very long
I played softball in elementary school, but quit just before a game when I learned that the boy I had a huge crush on was coming

P.S. I am not tagging anyone, this is just for fun. I still would love to hear 8 random things about you - leave it in my comments :)

Subway Love

2007-11-09T07:43:00.000-06:00

There was a really sweet story on Good Morning America today, about this guy on a NY city subway train, who saw the 'girl of his dreams :)'

Hopelessly romantic? You might want to see how he found her again.

http://www.nygirlofmydreams.com/

and here's the story on GMA

http://abcnews.go.com/Technology/story?id=3828525&page=1

Awww ;)