11 Temmuz 2012 Çarşamba
10 Temmuz 2012 Salı
9 Temmuz 2012 Pazartesi
Corundum Family of Gems
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Hi everyone! I hope you are having a great summer, be it ever so hot! We lived in Arizona for 11 years, the temperatures are not so different, just the nights--we are used to lows of 96--one great difference. Today is just a week before the next class begins. It will be on Wednesday the 11th. Wire will include gems, just less than beads.
It is not easy to procure ruby, or corundum for jewelry making since it is in all colors in sapphire, and has a hardness of 9, second only to diamonds, which is on the mohs scale, a 10. It lasts longer, can take more wear, hence it is more expensive and rare than most stones. Rubies are my birthstone, hence my favorite. I can really appreciate rubies that are more translucent, and have a couple accumulated over years of gifts. They are very beautiful, inspiring, and since they are known for passion and love, probably next to blue sapphire, which is calming, and also a corundum, best loved.
The color of the ruby is determined by the amount of chromium. Usually the more chromium, the more valuable the gem. I have seen many beautiful rubies which are not so saturated.
I will cover sapphires in another installment, since they come in every color. Corundum can take many elements, hence many colors.
Rubies, then the July birthstone are gorgeous. Those of us who love color will love most gems, especially in the corundum family. I think of a bouquet of flowers--which color is most beautiful? Each has it's own beauty. I think of gems as our bouquets in rocks. God has given us so many beautiful elements to enjoy.
Everyone who loves to make jewelry, tends to love colors and placement. The attractiveness depends on our mood, and ability to discern the color within. Norma Boeckler, an artist in water color is such an expert, she could discern 10 colors of green, blue in turquoise. I've never observed anyone better at it. She has painted a Poppy, which she has generously given me a copy of, for my dining room. It is beyond description when one counts, or tries to count colors of red. Needless to say, it reminds me of rubies, and always lifts my mood, when I look at it.
Let's all take our inspiration from color, nature, and those who translate it into "jewelry" for our eyes.
See you all soon. Let's all enjoy the color around us!
 |
| http://www.bsu.edu/eft/gems/p/archives/corundum.html |
It is not easy to procure ruby, or corundum for jewelry making since it is in all colors in sapphire, and has a hardness of 9, second only to diamonds, which is on the mohs scale, a 10. It lasts longer, can take more wear, hence it is more expensive and rare than most stones. Rubies are my birthstone, hence my favorite. I can really appreciate rubies that are more translucent, and have a couple accumulated over years of gifts. They are very beautiful, inspiring, and since they are known for passion and love, probably next to blue sapphire, which is calming, and also a corundum, best loved.
The color of the ruby is determined by the amount of chromium. Usually the more chromium, the more valuable the gem. I have seen many beautiful rubies which are not so saturated.
I will cover sapphires in another installment, since they come in every color. Corundum can take many elements, hence many colors.
Rubies, then the July birthstone are gorgeous. Those of us who love color will love most gems, especially in the corundum family. I think of a bouquet of flowers--which color is most beautiful? Each has it's own beauty. I think of gems as our bouquets in rocks. God has given us so many beautiful elements to enjoy.
Everyone who loves to make jewelry, tends to love colors and placement. The attractiveness depends on our mood, and ability to discern the color within. Norma Boeckler, an artist in water color is such an expert, she could discern 10 colors of green, blue in turquoise. I've never observed anyone better at it. She has painted a Poppy, which she has generously given me a copy of, for my dining room. It is beyond description when one counts, or tries to count colors of red. Needless to say, it reminds me of rubies, and always lifts my mood, when I look at it.
Let's all take our inspiration from color, nature, and those who translate it into "jewelry" for our eyes.
See you all soon. Let's all enjoy the color around us!
 |
| Varieties of corundum |
Flutter Of Luv - Party Palooza!
To contact us Click HERE
Please join in the Fun with BLOG Tour, Twitter Appetizer and FACEBOOK Release Party! Offering Amazon Gift Cards, Books, Keychains, Magnets and More! Star Author guest to be announced July 13th and spotlighted.
TWITTER Party Appetizer - Friday - July 27th, 5pm-6pm use hashtags #FlutterOfLuv and #FlutterOfLuvParty use www.tweetchat.com to participate easily
Facebook Release Party-Saturday - July 28th, 12pm-11pm! More Prizes and Fun! CLICK HERE!
Description:
Dawn, the neighborhood tomboy, is happy to be her best friend’s shadow. Acceptance comes from playing football after school with the guys on the block while hiding safely behind her glasses, braces, and boyish ways. But Tony moves in, becomes the star Running Back on her school’s football team, and changes her world and her view of herself forever.
Mini Blog Tour: July 13th - July 28th ending in Twitter Appetizer and Facebook Party!
LM Preston’s Ramblings - 7/13/2012
http://
A Little Bit Of R&R - 7/13/2012
http://
Doreen McGettigan - 7/17/2012
http://
Writer’s Alley - 7/17/2012
http://
I Want To Read That - 7/18/2012
http://
Cheryl Rainfield - 7/18/2012
http://
The Daily Harrell - 7/19/2012
http://
Word Forge Books - 7/20/2012
http://wordforgebooks.com/
Searching For An Escape - 7/21/2012
http://
http://www.facebook.com/
The Write Game - 7/23/2012
http://
Stephen Penner - 7/24/2012
http://
Black Words White Pages - 7/26/2012
http://
Curiosity Key - 7/27/2012
http://
SomeoneWhoActuallyCares - 7/27/2012
http://
LM Preston’s Ramblings - 7/28/2012
http://
Tribute Books Reviews & Giveaways - 7/23/2012
http://
Tribute Books Mama - 7/24/2012
http://
The Character Connection - 7/25/2012
http://
The Plot Thickens - 7/26/2012
http://
City Girl Who Loved To Read - 7/27/2012
http://
Twitter Party Appetizer - 5pm-6pm - 7/27/2012 #FlutterOfLuv and #FlutterOfLuvParty
Facebook Release Party Event - 7/28/2012
http://www.facebook.com/events/340720479326022/
TWITTER Party Appetizer - Friday - July 27th, 5pm-6pm use hashtags #FlutterOfLuv and #FlutterOfLuvParty use www.tweetchat.com to participate easily
Facebook Release Party-Saturday - July 28th, 12pm-11pm! More Prizes and Fun! CLICK HERE!
Description:
Dawn, the neighborhood tomboy, is happy to be her best friend’s shadow. Acceptance comes from playing football after school with the guys on the block while hiding safely behind her glasses, braces, and boyish ways. But Tony moves in, becomes the star Running Back on her school’s football team, and changes her world and her view of herself forever.
Mini Blog Tour: July 13th - July 28th ending in Twitter Appetizer and Facebook Party!
LM Preston’s Ramblings - 7/13/2012
http://
A Little Bit Of R&R - 7/13/2012
http://
Doreen McGettigan - 7/17/2012
http://
Writer’s Alley - 7/17/2012
http://
I Want To Read That - 7/18/2012
http://
Cheryl Rainfield - 7/18/2012
http://
The Daily Harrell - 7/19/2012
http://
Word Forge Books - 7/20/2012
http://wordforgebooks.com/
Searching For An Escape - 7/21/2012
http://
http://www.facebook.com/
The Write Game - 7/23/2012
http://
Stephen Penner - 7/24/2012
http://
Black Words White Pages - 7/26/2012
http://
Curiosity Key - 7/27/2012
http://
SomeoneWhoActuallyCares - 7/27/2012
http://
LM Preston’s Ramblings - 7/28/2012
http://
Tribute Books Reviews & Giveaways - 7/23/2012
http://
Tribute Books Mama - 7/24/2012
http://
The Character Connection - 7/25/2012
http://
The Plot Thickens - 7/26/2012
http://
City Girl Who Loved To Read - 7/27/2012
http://
Twitter Party Appetizer - 5pm-6pm - 7/27/2012 #FlutterOfLuv and #FlutterOfLuvParty
Facebook Release Party Event - 7/28/2012
http://www.facebook.com/events/340720479326022/
The Kill-Joy
To contact us Click HERE
Believe it or not, me – yes, I was accused by my dear husband early on in our marriage of being a kill-joy. Every time that man came up with some crazy out of this world adventure or idea, I’d tell him tons of things he should ‘be aware of’. However, he saw those times that I mentally or verbally weighed the pros and cons as killing his enthusiasm for his dream. Was I? Maybe? Could be… but I didn’t think so.
SEEING THE BAD doesn’t MEAN you can’t SEE THE POSSIBILITY
Just because I pointed out the possibilities (bad and the good), I always had this way in which my mind worked to puzzle out my odds of success and plan how I would gain it. Now I never was one to jump head on into something. I usually prepared for it, knowing from my own career and life that things don’t always go as well as planned – but a backup plan or two can still garner you much success.
BEING AN AUTHOR CAN BE A KILL-JOY
Yep, if you are an author, you have got to be ready for everyone’s kill-joy opinion. Like, that you can’t possibly make a living at this. Or, that you’ll never be rich at this. Or that your story stinks and no one will buy it. The list goes on.
Now they aren’t always telling a lie – it could be the truth. However, for everyone that hasn’t at least tried to reach their dreams, it’s a definite reality.
So as a writer who faces many kill-joy’s you get tougher, more determined and better informed in order to build YOUR OWN path to success. Then you can turn back and wink at the ‘kill-joy’ and tell them, “Thanks for the warning. ”
SEEING THE BAD doesn’t MEAN you can’t SEE THE POSSIBILITY
Just because I pointed out the possibilities (bad and the good), I always had this way in which my mind worked to puzzle out my odds of success and plan how I would gain it. Now I never was one to jump head on into something. I usually prepared for it, knowing from my own career and life that things don’t always go as well as planned – but a backup plan or two can still garner you much success.
BEING AN AUTHOR CAN BE A KILL-JOY
Yep, if you are an author, you have got to be ready for everyone’s kill-joy opinion. Like, that you can’t possibly make a living at this. Or, that you’ll never be rich at this. Or that your story stinks and no one will buy it. The list goes on.
Now they aren’t always telling a lie – it could be the truth. However, for everyone that hasn’t at least tried to reach their dreams, it’s a definite reality.
So as a writer who faces many kill-joy’s you get tougher, more determined and better informed in order to build YOUR OWN path to success. Then you can turn back and wink at the ‘kill-joy’ and tell them, “Thanks for the warning. ”
Indie Author Spotlight-Willow Cross
To contact us Click HERE
Willow Cross is one of my favorite Indie Authors. Here's a run down of her awesome books! THE DARK GIFTS Series
Birthright
For one-thousand years, Druid prophecies foretold of a young witch destined to alter the fate of both human and immortal alike. This witch-turned-vampire would be capable of harnessing the supernatural abilities of both and, in a bloody rise to power, would rule with unwavering control. Unwillingly thrust into a world she never dreamed existed, Liz Markum is catapulted into an ancient war between rival vampire factions. She must choose between those she loves and the ever-present darkness attempting to devour her very soul. Only one question remains: Will Liz claim her birthright or surrender to the dark gift? One choice. One chance. Two destinies.
Inheritance
It all started with a gift...
When Sarah and her older brother received a house from an Aunt they never knew existed, they counted it a blessing. For the first time in her young life, Sarah had a real home. Within months, the once beloved dark gift revealed a hidden curse. As the full moon rose into the heavens, the only person she’d ever been able to count on had become a monster.
Desperate to save her brother, Sarah embarks on a nightmarish journey into their lineage in hopes of discovering answers and a cure. If only she’d known beforehand...her brother wasn’t the worst monster out there. And he certainly wasn’t the most dangerous. To make matters worse, they’d been searching for her since the day she was born...
Oceans of Red Volume One
By 2015 the streets of Los Angeles have been transformed from a thriving metropolis to a hostile world ravaged by demons bent on assimilating the human race. Standing between this total apocalypse of humanity and their chance for survival is 19 year old Remy Martin.
A warrior in her own right, trained to think on her feet and kill if the situation requires, she is flanked by her older brother and younger sister. Together, they devise a plan to take back the streets. Against the wishes of their father, who commands the resistance forces, they venture into unknown realms of the supernatural in a race against time with the fate of the entire world in their young hands.
Join them on their mission into darkness where death lies around every corner, it is virtually impossible to distinguish your enemies from your allies, and a single mistake could result in the annihilation of everyone you've ever known and loved. Show More Show Less
A Higher Calling
A daughter’s mistake.
A mother’s wrath.
An impossible choice.
Sophie’s plans were simple: Leave the supernatural behind and raise a child of her own creation. For twenty years life couldn’t have been better, until the day her daughter showed up on her doorstep bloodied and bruised. They say, “Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned.” But the wrath of a mother, whose only desire was to protect her child, is unfathomable. Those pure of heart can rest easy. However, if you carry the slightest tinge of darkness, beware the Higher Calling.
To check out her awesome books: CLICK HEREWant to find out about more More INDIE Authors for INDIEPendence Day! Go here: http://indeliblewriters.blogspot.com/2012/06/indiependence-day-celebration-of-indie.html
Willow Cross is one of my favorite Indie Authors. Here's a run down of her awesome books! THE DARK GIFTS Series Birthright
For one-thousand years, Druid prophecies foretold of a young witch destined to alter the fate of both human and immortal alike. This witch-turned-vampire would be capable of harnessing the supernatural abilities of both and, in a bloody rise to power, would rule with unwavering control. Unwillingly thrust into a world she never dreamed existed, Liz Markum is catapulted into an ancient war between rival vampire factions. She must choose between those she loves and the ever-present darkness attempting to devour her very soul. Only one question remains: Will Liz claim her birthright or surrender to the dark gift? One choice. One chance. Two destinies.
Inheritance
It all started with a gift...
When Sarah and her older brother received a house from an Aunt they never knew existed, they counted it a blessing. For the first time in her young life, Sarah had a real home. Within months, the once beloved dark gift revealed a hidden curse. As the full moon rose into the heavens, the only person she’d ever been able to count on had become a monster.
Desperate to save her brother, Sarah embarks on a nightmarish journey into their lineage in hopes of discovering answers and a cure. If only she’d known beforehand...her brother wasn’t the worst monster out there. And he certainly wasn’t the most dangerous. To make matters worse, they’d been searching for her since the day she was born...
Oceans of Red Volume One
By 2015 the streets of Los Angeles have been transformed from a thriving metropolis to a hostile world ravaged by demons bent on assimilating the human race. Standing between this total apocalypse of humanity and their chance for survival is 19 year old Remy Martin.
A warrior in her own right, trained to think on her feet and kill if the situation requires, she is flanked by her older brother and younger sister. Together, they devise a plan to take back the streets. Against the wishes of their father, who commands the resistance forces, they venture into unknown realms of the supernatural in a race against time with the fate of the entire world in their young hands.
Join them on their mission into darkness where death lies around every corner, it is virtually impossible to distinguish your enemies from your allies, and a single mistake could result in the annihilation of everyone you've ever known and loved. Show More Show Less
A Higher Calling
A daughter’s mistake.
A mother’s wrath.
An impossible choice.
Sophie’s plans were simple: Leave the supernatural behind and raise a child of her own creation. For twenty years life couldn’t have been better, until the day her daughter showed up on her doorstep bloodied and bruised. They say, “Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned.” But the wrath of a mother, whose only desire was to protect her child, is unfathomable. Those pure of heart can rest easy. However, if you carry the slightest tinge of darkness, beware the Higher Calling.
To check out her awesome books: CLICK HEREWant to find out about more More INDIE Authors for INDIEPendence Day! Go here: http://indeliblewriters.blogspot.com/2012/06/indiependence-day-celebration-of-indie.html
The Amazing Spider-Man -Movie Review
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I love myself some Spider-Man. I own all the movies and let me tell you, this one didn't dissapoint.
IMDb Blurb: Peter Parker finds a clue that might help him understand why his parents disappeared when he was young. His path puts him on a collision course with Dr. Curt Connors, his father's former partner.
Director: Marc Webb
Writers: James Vanderbilt (screenplay), Alvin Sargent (screenplay)
Stars:Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone and Rhys Ifans | See full cast and crew
My Review: I have to say I was skeptical. I had really grown attached to the previous installments of the retelling of the Spider-Man comics. Also, I was rather ticked that they would have an overlap of how spider-man was created. However, after watching the movie, I didn't feel like I was watching a replay of the first movie. The change for Spider-Man was different. This Spider-Man to me seemed a bit more ... uh ... edgey. There were some repeat or similar scenes like him getting beat up by Flash. But overall it was a different taste. Also, his love affair isn't with Mary Jane. Now to the best part of the movie - I never got bored. Nope, it was fast-paced, great special effects, sweet romance, action and so much more. Just what the doctor orders to give you that feeling of escape and suck you into a great and exciting super world. I loved it! So I give this baby a 5 out 5 webs.
IMDb Blurb: Peter Parker finds a clue that might help him understand why his parents disappeared when he was young. His path puts him on a collision course with Dr. Curt Connors, his father's former partner.
Director: Marc Webb
Writers: James Vanderbilt (screenplay), Alvin Sargent (screenplay)
Stars:Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone and Rhys Ifans | See full cast and crew
My Review: I have to say I was skeptical. I had really grown attached to the previous installments of the retelling of the Spider-Man comics. Also, I was rather ticked that they would have an overlap of how spider-man was created. However, after watching the movie, I didn't feel like I was watching a replay of the first movie. The change for Spider-Man was different. This Spider-Man to me seemed a bit more ... uh ... edgey. There were some repeat or similar scenes like him getting beat up by Flash. But overall it was a different taste. Also, his love affair isn't with Mary Jane. Now to the best part of the movie - I never got bored. Nope, it was fast-paced, great special effects, sweet romance, action and so much more. Just what the doctor orders to give you that feeling of escape and suck you into a great and exciting super world. I loved it! So I give this baby a 5 out 5 webs.
8 Temmuz 2012 Pazar
Following Jesus: Humility and Grace
To contact us Click HERE
In our small group we are studying Leonard Sweet's book "I am a Follower" which encourages Christians to rethink their lives as ones of following Christ rather than being leaders for Christ. Christ, the Good Shepherd, is THE leader. . . the rest of us are followers and to even think about "leading" someone to Jesus, first means becoming a devoted, committed, unabashedly courageous follower. It's simple really . . . it's just that we've been sold a bill of goods that entices us all to be "good leaders," "brave leaders," "creative leaders," etc. When all we really have to do is follow. . . except being a follower has gotten a bad wrap! It's weak, second-rate, less than the best, lacks creativity we would say. Not so! On the contrary it takes strength, courage, imagination, fervor, passion and commitment.
In our study yesterday, one in our group recounted a contrast between leadership that is walled off and unaccessible and followership that is filled with love and humility and grace. Here is what Susan S. offered the group:
Last Spring,on a trip to Washington D.C. our group was very excited to be able to tour the Capitol Building, the Library of Congress, and to have a meeting at the office of our Congressional Representative. However, we were not able to access the White House. With the first group of buildings and people, we went through a metal detector, left our bags in a locker and were granted access. Pretty simple process for visiting those places, all of which are very important and house very important people's offices. But, the White House on the other hand, required that at least two weeks before the visit, you apply online by filling out a form giving the Secret Service your name, address, social security number, birthdate, etc. Only then might you receive a pass to enter the White House to take a tour. Mind you, we had no false hopes that we would even come close to the President, we simply wanted to take a tour of some of the rooms.
In contrast to this, several years ago my daughter was visiting Spain. On a layover at an airport, Mother Theresa happened to walk by. Graciously and without any reservation she stopped to chat with the girls for a couple of minutes. When she was ready to move on she blessed them, offering them a moment of mercy and love that came from her identity as a follower of Christ. Then she continued on her journey. She had no body guards to keep the public from her, as well known and as tiny as she was. . . she simply made her way through life, crowds, airports with the greatest humility and grace in the name of Jesus- blessing people as she went.
Of course we know that it is the Secret Service's job to protect the President of the United States and that he probably has more threats against him than anyone in the world, but it seems a stark contrast between the two "leaders." One allows herself to be accessible to whomever she meets, blessing them, praying with them as she encounters them. Changing lives one at a time simply by following Jesus. How might we use our lives as followers of Jesus to bless those we come in contact with each day? Humility and grace might be the key to our followership of Jesus, one who modeled humility and grace in all aspects of his life on earth. Perhaps it means not taking ourselves too seriously. Perhaps it also means that we are never as important as we might think we are in the grand scheme of things. . . that our only mission in this life is to follow and serve and bless.
Image Credit: biography.com
In our study yesterday, one in our group recounted a contrast between leadership that is walled off and unaccessible and followership that is filled with love and humility and grace. Here is what Susan S. offered the group:
Last Spring,on a trip to Washington D.C. our group was very excited to be able to tour the Capitol Building, the Library of Congress, and to have a meeting at the office of our Congressional Representative. However, we were not able to access the White House. With the first group of buildings and people, we went through a metal detector, left our bags in a locker and were granted access. Pretty simple process for visiting those places, all of which are very important and house very important people's offices. But, the White House on the other hand, required that at least two weeks before the visit, you apply online by filling out a form giving the Secret Service your name, address, social security number, birthdate, etc. Only then might you receive a pass to enter the White House to take a tour. Mind you, we had no false hopes that we would even come close to the President, we simply wanted to take a tour of some of the rooms.
In contrast to this, several years ago my daughter was visiting Spain. On a layover at an airport, Mother Theresa happened to walk by. Graciously and without any reservation she stopped to chat with the girls for a couple of minutes. When she was ready to move on she blessed them, offering them a moment of mercy and love that came from her identity as a follower of Christ. Then she continued on her journey. She had no body guards to keep the public from her, as well known and as tiny as she was. . . she simply made her way through life, crowds, airports with the greatest humility and grace in the name of Jesus- blessing people as she went.
Of course we know that it is the Secret Service's job to protect the President of the United States and that he probably has more threats against him than anyone in the world, but it seems a stark contrast between the two "leaders." One allows herself to be accessible to whomever she meets, blessing them, praying with them as she encounters them. Changing lives one at a time simply by following Jesus. How might we use our lives as followers of Jesus to bless those we come in contact with each day? Humility and grace might be the key to our followership of Jesus, one who modeled humility and grace in all aspects of his life on earth. Perhaps it means not taking ourselves too seriously. Perhaps it also means that we are never as important as we might think we are in the grand scheme of things. . . that our only mission in this life is to follow and serve and bless.
Image Credit: biography.com
Sometimes There Simply Are No Words
To contact us Click HERE
I looked at the last date of my last post on STS and it has been way over a month. Life has been hectic, filled with so many things to do. . .
Sometimes the busy-ness sparks my imagination. Sometimes I find, there simply are no words. They just don't come. There are strings of thoughts but nothing worth saying. There are clouds of emotion but nothing worth reporting. There is silence. . . oh the silence-- sometimes painful, sometimes welcome, sometimes it just "is."
In a word filled with sound-bytes and images and messages bombarding us from every direction, sometimes we get so used to the sounds that we fail to realize how destructive the noise really is for us. Distracted. Distressed. Disconnected from the One who calls to us in our waking hours, in our prayers, in our sleep. But we cannot or WILL NOT hear. There's too much noise all around us; too much noise inside of us. Sometimes I just want to scream, "STOP!" Stop the talking! Stop the phone ringing. Stop the black letters coming across the screen. . . JUST STOP! Just let me be. . . I just want to be.
And yet the paradox of that is that I have a very difficult time "just being." To just be, one has to be able to tolerate a certain amount of pain, I think.
Perhaps my inability to just be has to do with my threshold of pain, or lack thereof. I really have a high physical pain tolerance- I gave birth to two beautiful kids where the epidurals went awry and I felt all the pain on half of my body. I ran for years with chronic shin splints and a stress fracture in my foot. Until very recently, I haven't missed a day of work in years and years and years. (I only missed two because of a minor surgery!) But when it comes to the clearing of my mind. . . it rarely happens. . . there are always words and images floating past. . . and it's hard to not focus on them, difficult to let them go on by. Then I get distracted and there are no words of any meaning that come out so it's just better to stay silent.
I think that kind of "pain," if you can call it pain, is part of our human condition if we allow ourselves to really feel it. It's part of "being" human. I'd rather be injured, some days, than have to "feel" what there simply are no words for. On the other hand, at least I know I'm alive because I can still feel what I feel! Some days there is peace surrounding me, some days it is raw and open and exposed. That's life, right?
What to do with it all? I wish I had a prescription to share-- something that would take it all away but all I can do in those moments is utter to my Lord, "Kyrie Eleison, Christe Eleison, Kyrie Eleison." The only words I can come up with which invite my Lord Jesus to enter into the darkness inside of me and take it onto himself for a few minutes so I can experience a flash of relief.
The good news is that, in the words of the old African American Spiritual, "He hasn't failed me yet." And I know that if I remember to come to him, he will do it for me over and over again until I no longer feel what there simply are no words for. . . pretty good deal don't you think?
Amen.
Sometimes the busy-ness sparks my imagination. Sometimes I find, there simply are no words. They just don't come. There are strings of thoughts but nothing worth saying. There are clouds of emotion but nothing worth reporting. There is silence. . . oh the silence-- sometimes painful, sometimes welcome, sometimes it just "is."
In a word filled with sound-bytes and images and messages bombarding us from every direction, sometimes we get so used to the sounds that we fail to realize how destructive the noise really is for us. Distracted. Distressed. Disconnected from the One who calls to us in our waking hours, in our prayers, in our sleep. But we cannot or WILL NOT hear. There's too much noise all around us; too much noise inside of us. Sometimes I just want to scream, "STOP!" Stop the talking! Stop the phone ringing. Stop the black letters coming across the screen. . . JUST STOP! Just let me be. . . I just want to be.
And yet the paradox of that is that I have a very difficult time "just being." To just be, one has to be able to tolerate a certain amount of pain, I think.
Perhaps my inability to just be has to do with my threshold of pain, or lack thereof. I really have a high physical pain tolerance- I gave birth to two beautiful kids where the epidurals went awry and I felt all the pain on half of my body. I ran for years with chronic shin splints and a stress fracture in my foot. Until very recently, I haven't missed a day of work in years and years and years. (I only missed two because of a minor surgery!) But when it comes to the clearing of my mind. . . it rarely happens. . . there are always words and images floating past. . . and it's hard to not focus on them, difficult to let them go on by. Then I get distracted and there are no words of any meaning that come out so it's just better to stay silent.
I think that kind of "pain," if you can call it pain, is part of our human condition if we allow ourselves to really feel it. It's part of "being" human. I'd rather be injured, some days, than have to "feel" what there simply are no words for. On the other hand, at least I know I'm alive because I can still feel what I feel! Some days there is peace surrounding me, some days it is raw and open and exposed. That's life, right?
What to do with it all? I wish I had a prescription to share-- something that would take it all away but all I can do in those moments is utter to my Lord, "Kyrie Eleison, Christe Eleison, Kyrie Eleison." The only words I can come up with which invite my Lord Jesus to enter into the darkness inside of me and take it onto himself for a few minutes so I can experience a flash of relief.
The good news is that, in the words of the old African American Spiritual, "He hasn't failed me yet." And I know that if I remember to come to him, he will do it for me over and over again until I no longer feel what there simply are no words for. . . pretty good deal don't you think?
Amen.
Catharsis
To contact us Click HERE
With a very heavy heart I decided to take my dog for a run this morning. It always seems to help clear my mind. It helps with the catharsis process. . .
Catharsis is a Greek word that means "to purge" or "to cleanse." Sometimes tears just simply aren't enough to get the pain out. Sometimes they are sufficient. If you think you have no pain then I have news for you. . . there is enough sin in this world (our own and others) that if you would only stop for a moment to reflect, you would realize that there is some very real pain in/under/around/within you and the emotional/spiritual/physical space that you inhabit. We all need something cathartic at times. Today was a day for me. . . so I tied up my Nikes, clipped the leash on the pup, grabbed my iPod and off I went into the rain.
Now there is something very soothing about running in the rain, especially warm Spring rain. The water was running down my face, dripping from my eyelashes, dropping from the curls on my head and cleansing me of some very great disappointment and struggle. As I ventured the end of the trail, Lauren Hill's voice proclaiming to me "Everything is Everything," my steps got faster and faster. Soon I found myself leaping over puddles that had formed in the dirt as if I was back on that green track in Athens, left lead leg, right lead leg, hurdle after hurdle like the 400 meter race I used to run. The Irish violins of the Celtic Woman spurred me on as I silently prayed for God's presence in the rain. My own breathing echoing in my ears keeping time with whatever song came next. . . pushing me to sweat it out, to leave it there, to rely on God's never failing grace and guidance.
When I made it home there was not one spot on me or the dog that was not soaked. God was there. In the running, in the rain, in the drops of water cascading over me like my baptism long ago of which I do not remember. Only He knows how many more times I will have to run like that. . . how many times catharsis will be the order of the day. . . how many more times a human, child of God, will have to endure suffering and pain because of sin.
But the rain continues to fall- on the good and the bad and all those in between. But the promise is His never failing love, even as we seek to be obedient to His will to love others, even those whom we think we can never love. We cannot do it alone. It is utterly impossible. The good news is that Jesus has done it for us- we who did not deserve such love, grace and life have been granted the greatest gift of all!
If you are reading this- don't worry about me or about anything else. I'm in good hands. . . and so are you!
acl
Matthew 5:44-45
The Message (MSG) 43-47"You're familiar with the old written law, 'Love your friend,' and its unwritten companion, 'Hate your enemy.' I'm challenging that. I'm telling you to love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst. When someone gives you a hard time, respond with the energies of prayer, for then you are working out of your true selves, your God-created selves. This is what God does. He gives his best—the sun to warm and the rain to nourish—to everyone, regardless: the good and bad, the nice and nasty. If all you do is love the lovable, do you expect a bonus? Anybody can do that. If you simply say hello to those who greet you, do you expect a medal? Any run-of-the-mill sinner does that.
With a very heavy heart I decided to take my dog for a run this morning. It always seems to help clear my mind. It helps with the catharsis process. . .
Catharsis is a Greek word that means "to purge" or "to cleanse." Sometimes tears just simply aren't enough to get the pain out. Sometimes they are sufficient. If you think you have no pain then I have news for you. . . there is enough sin in this world (our own and others) that if you would only stop for a moment to reflect, you would realize that there is some very real pain in/under/around/within you and the emotional/spiritual/physical space that you inhabit. We all need something cathartic at times. Today was a day for me. . . so I tied up my Nikes, clipped the leash on the pup, grabbed my iPod and off I went into the rain.
Now there is something very soothing about running in the rain, especially warm Spring rain. The water was running down my face, dripping from my eyelashes, dropping from the curls on my head and cleansing me of some very great disappointment and struggle. As I ventured the end of the trail, Lauren Hill's voice proclaiming to me "Everything is Everything," my steps got faster and faster. Soon I found myself leaping over puddles that had formed in the dirt as if I was back on that green track in Athens, left lead leg, right lead leg, hurdle after hurdle like the 400 meter race I used to run. The Irish violins of the Celtic Woman spurred me on as I silently prayed for God's presence in the rain. My own breathing echoing in my ears keeping time with whatever song came next. . . pushing me to sweat it out, to leave it there, to rely on God's never failing grace and guidance.
When I made it home there was not one spot on me or the dog that was not soaked. God was there. In the running, in the rain, in the drops of water cascading over me like my baptism long ago of which I do not remember. Only He knows how many more times I will have to run like that. . . how many times catharsis will be the order of the day. . . how many more times a human, child of God, will have to endure suffering and pain because of sin.
But the rain continues to fall- on the good and the bad and all those in between. But the promise is His never failing love, even as we seek to be obedient to His will to love others, even those whom we think we can never love. We cannot do it alone. It is utterly impossible. The good news is that Jesus has done it for us- we who did not deserve such love, grace and life have been granted the greatest gift of all!
If you are reading this- don't worry about me or about anything else. I'm in good hands. . . and so are you!
acl
There's a Light. . .
To contact us Click HERE
I posted this picture of my daughter on Facebook this morning and one of my friends, who has known my girl since she was born, said how beautiful she is and that there is a light that shines in her.
Well, that got me thinking about the light that shines within us. . . at our baptism we are charged with the task to "let our light so shine before others" so that the world may see Christ at work in us and in the world. Is that what my friend sees in my daughter? Is that what I see when I look out into the congregation on a Sunday morning and I see eyes filled with tears of joy, smiles pasted on happy faces, looks of yearning to hear more and more about God's love and mercy? Is that what I see in our small group when sisters and brothers in faith encourage one another and support one another on this journey? I believe it is.
One thing I know about this light that shines within us is that it isn't "us." When we are plugged in to the source of our hope and strength, something is exuded from our faces. . . our lives. What people see in us is actually the light of Christ shining through. They often mistake it for "us" rather than what it really is. . . the light that shines through all darkness, Jesus our Lord. This light can attract others to us. . . it can draw them our way. We must always remember that it is not to "us" that they are being drawn, lest we begin to rely on that kind of affirmation, but it is to the One who gives the light and who is the light. That light is very beautiful indeed! It is something we notice almost right away in each other if we are in tune with the Spirit. . . we also feel it within ourselves as it seems that love will ooze right out of us onto those we meet. That's because we see Christ in them. . . we see them as God sees them. . . and we become the ones who share God's love with the world. Just like the light is not ours, so the love is not ours. . . it comes from God and flows through us to others.
May you be light to the world just like my little sunshine girl! May your heart be wide open to love others the way that God has first loved you. May you be blessed by the fullness of Christ Jesus in your heart and mind and soul and spirit.
a.
Well, that got me thinking about the light that shines within us. . . at our baptism we are charged with the task to "let our light so shine before others" so that the world may see Christ at work in us and in the world. Is that what my friend sees in my daughter? Is that what I see when I look out into the congregation on a Sunday morning and I see eyes filled with tears of joy, smiles pasted on happy faces, looks of yearning to hear more and more about God's love and mercy? Is that what I see in our small group when sisters and brothers in faith encourage one another and support one another on this journey? I believe it is.
One thing I know about this light that shines within us is that it isn't "us." When we are plugged in to the source of our hope and strength, something is exuded from our faces. . . our lives. What people see in us is actually the light of Christ shining through. They often mistake it for "us" rather than what it really is. . . the light that shines through all darkness, Jesus our Lord. This light can attract others to us. . . it can draw them our way. We must always remember that it is not to "us" that they are being drawn, lest we begin to rely on that kind of affirmation, but it is to the One who gives the light and who is the light. That light is very beautiful indeed! It is something we notice almost right away in each other if we are in tune with the Spirit. . . we also feel it within ourselves as it seems that love will ooze right out of us onto those we meet. That's because we see Christ in them. . . we see them as God sees them. . . and we become the ones who share God's love with the world. Just like the light is not ours, so the love is not ours. . . it comes from God and flows through us to others.
May you be light to the world just like my little sunshine girl! May your heart be wide open to love others the way that God has first loved you. May you be blessed by the fullness of Christ Jesus in your heart and mind and soul and spirit.
a.
Power Outage
To contact us Click HERE
This note came to me from one of my best friends, Susan H., after having been without electricity due to summer thunderstorms this past week:
Power outage - No electricity. I don't know about you but I am not exactly sure what todo with myself when the power is out. I try to read and relax with a day free fromnormal life duties but for whatever reason I seem to be full of nervous energy. I am unfocused,
unorganized and generally unproductive when thepower is out. Then, without notice, wham! Thepower is on and I feel energized, restored, life isagain full of possibilities. This scenario parallels tomy life and attitude when I get away from the Word,worship and prayer. It is always so renewing when Iam again made aware of His presence and powerin my life. Thank God! The power is on!
How about you? Do you feel that holy tension inside of you when you (for whatever reason) find yourself away from the power source of God's mercy and love? Prayer and worship have a calming effect on us. . . powerful calming endorphins are created in our brains when we are plugged into God's love, just like snuggling close to the father's chest and receiving comfort and care. When do you find yourself most anxious in life? Examine your prayer practices during those moments. . . are you engaged or distant?
Take some time to plug in each day!
Thanks Susan for this metaphor for our spirit!
image credit: maryvillecollege.edu
Power outage - No electricity. I don't know about you but I am not exactly sure what todo with myself when the power is out. I try to read and relax with a day free fromnormal life duties but for whatever reason I seem to be full of nervous energy. I am unfocused,
unorganized and generally unproductive when thepower is out. Then, without notice, wham! Thepower is on and I feel energized, restored, life isagain full of possibilities. This scenario parallels tomy life and attitude when I get away from the Word,worship and prayer. It is always so renewing when Iam again made aware of His presence and powerin my life. Thank God! The power is on!
How about you? Do you feel that holy tension inside of you when you (for whatever reason) find yourself away from the power source of God's mercy and love? Prayer and worship have a calming effect on us. . . powerful calming endorphins are created in our brains when we are plugged into God's love, just like snuggling close to the father's chest and receiving comfort and care. When do you find yourself most anxious in life? Examine your prayer practices during those moments. . . are you engaged or distant?
Take some time to plug in each day!
Thanks Susan for this metaphor for our spirit!
image credit: maryvillecollege.edu
7 Temmuz 2012 Cumartesi
State Special Olympics 2012
To contact us Click HERE
Woo-Hoo!! Canyon finally got a fan club to join him this year! Because we started school a week early in the fall, we were out a week early and Sahara and Jared were able to go with us this time.
It turned out that the school paid for a hotel for the coaches this time. AMAZING!! And because of that, we were able to spread out a little and have a 2 room suite.
Our original dorm room,
the connecting bath,
and the other dorm room we lucked out and got.
The view from the first room.
After arriving and Chick-fil-A for dinner, we headed to the stadium for opening ceremonies. Canyon was dropped off with his team and coaches to march in. He is the one waving towards the center of each picture.
Then he came to sit with us for the rest of the show.
The motorcycles are always a BIG hit!! The sound of 400 revving engines echoing all over.
As the darkness continues, so does the show and by the end it's a big light and dance time.
( I meant to only post the last 30 seconds of this but the whole thing loaded. It's great when they all shuffled together on que :) at about 1:35 )
Like last year, the helicopter landed in the field with the torch from the torch run that the police sponsor. And other helicopters and planes do low fly-bys too.
Opening Ceremonies last about 2 hours and everyone is ready to hit the showers and go to bed soon after.
UNFORTUNATELY, sleeping on plastic dorm mattresses is not something that is easily done. I think we each got about 2 hours of sleep that night.
After breakfast, we did a walk around the campus.
For 3 years now, we have stopped by this baby tree by the fountain.
This year:2012
Last year: 2011 First year: 2010
And every year he has hugged the tree the same way. AND remembered where it was for a picture!
Like the regular Olympics and their Olympic Village, Special Olympics has Olympic Town. Canyon made another necklace to add to the collection with the help of Jared and Sahara.
Nice creation :)
Then we all had our fingers painted (YES, ALL)
Canyon did his in black with a sliver star.
Jared only did one thumb in gold glitter.
1st Event!The Standing Long Jump
He tends to go higher then he does further.
His facial expression is priceless!
2nd Place! A SILVER!!
Great Job!!!
We went out to eat at Chili's. Special Olympics supplies lunch, but it is a sandwich and chips and served on the fields. It was really hot so were went to eat and then back to the dorms for a nap. I told Sahara that I think I slept better in our hour nap then I did the whole night before...she agreed!
Then we hit a Walmart because we forgot to bring a nice outfit for the Victory Celebration Dance at Berryhill Park. Then back to campus for dinner.
At the dance, we realized only about half the people really dress up for it. Oh well, we got new clothes!
At first, Canyon didn't want to do anything but sit and watch. But once we got him started, there was no stopping him!
I was at least hoping we didn't have a repeat of the first year when he got so over heated that he threw up. But it all was fine.
Tell me why I shouldn't like Jared??? He is AWESOME with Canyon!! And it's not just Canyon. He would stop and help any one of these people if he saw they needed help with a positive attitude, a smile, and respect. He wants to be a coach but he would be amazing in special ed or therapy.
Back to the dorm for showers and sleep. Better night for all.
2nd EventSoft Ball Throw
Another SILVER!!
The 2 boys who won first in both events were very good! Probably at the top of the age bracket, but even so, threw 3 times as far as the others and jumped 3 times as far.
On the way home, we stopped at TGI Friday's in Conway for lunch and a little shopping and that rounded out our trip.
Until next year.....
It turned out that the school paid for a hotel for the coaches this time. AMAZING!! And because of that, we were able to spread out a little and have a 2 room suite.
Our original dorm room,
the connecting bath,
and the other dorm room we lucked out and got.
The view from the first room.
After arriving and Chick-fil-A for dinner, we headed to the stadium for opening ceremonies. Canyon was dropped off with his team and coaches to march in. He is the one waving towards the center of each picture.
Then he came to sit with us for the rest of the show.
The motorcycles are always a BIG hit!! The sound of 400 revving engines echoing all over.
As the darkness continues, so does the show and by the end it's a big light and dance time.
( I meant to only post the last 30 seconds of this but the whole thing loaded. It's great when they all shuffled together on que :) at about 1:35 )
Like last year, the helicopter landed in the field with the torch from the torch run that the police sponsor. And other helicopters and planes do low fly-bys too.
Opening Ceremonies last about 2 hours and everyone is ready to hit the showers and go to bed soon after.
UNFORTUNATELY, sleeping on plastic dorm mattresses is not something that is easily done. I think we each got about 2 hours of sleep that night.
After breakfast, we did a walk around the campus.
For 3 years now, we have stopped by this baby tree by the fountain.
This year:2012
Last year: 2011 First year: 2010And every year he has hugged the tree the same way. AND remembered where it was for a picture!
Like the regular Olympics and their Olympic Village, Special Olympics has Olympic Town. Canyon made another necklace to add to the collection with the help of Jared and Sahara.
Nice creation :)
Then we all had our fingers painted (YES, ALL)
Canyon did his in black with a sliver star.
Jared only did one thumb in gold glitter.1st Event!The Standing Long Jump
He tends to go higher then he does further.His facial expression is priceless!2nd Place! A SILVER!!
Great Job!!!
We went out to eat at Chili's. Special Olympics supplies lunch, but it is a sandwich and chips and served on the fields. It was really hot so were went to eat and then back to the dorms for a nap. I told Sahara that I think I slept better in our hour nap then I did the whole night before...she agreed!
Then we hit a Walmart because we forgot to bring a nice outfit for the Victory Celebration Dance at Berryhill Park. Then back to campus for dinner.
At the dance, we realized only about half the people really dress up for it. Oh well, we got new clothes!
At first, Canyon didn't want to do anything but sit and watch. But once we got him started, there was no stopping him!
I was at least hoping we didn't have a repeat of the first year when he got so over heated that he threw up. But it all was fine.
Tell me why I shouldn't like Jared??? He is AWESOME with Canyon!! And it's not just Canyon. He would stop and help any one of these people if he saw they needed help with a positive attitude, a smile, and respect. He wants to be a coach but he would be amazing in special ed or therapy.
Back to the dorm for showers and sleep. Better night for all.
2nd EventSoft Ball Throw
Another SILVER!!
The 2 boys who won first in both events were very good! Probably at the top of the age bracket, but even so, threw 3 times as far as the others and jumped 3 times as far.
On the way home, we stopped at TGI Friday's in Conway for lunch and a little shopping and that rounded out our trip.
Until next year.....
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