Ari'sgma

lovely little things: Sheet Skirt

2012-03-08T09:12:00.001-08:00

lovely little things: Sheet Skirt: I have been sewing a little bit, but I haven't been blogging. This week is all about playing catch up. I posted a long time ago about this...

The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore (2011)

2012-03-01T09:35:00.000-08:00

Bavarian Crochet Blanket and a Bit of Love

2012-02-29T11:06:00.000-08:00

Bavarian Crochet Blanket and a Bit of Love

repurposing a new to me mailbox

2012-02-28T14:24:00.000-08:00

http://www.littlefreelibrary.org/
These little free libraries make me smile, and since i am not a wood worker and i am not married to one,
i am going to use a new to me mailbox i bought at goodwill for 3.00$ and hopefully have a friend paint it
and then i will set it up in my front yard to daily load with books.
i am very excited, i purge so many books on a weekly basis and finding new ways to give them to
others who want and or need them is what really floats my boat. my happiness boat and snow clap boat.
i will try to post pictures when i get this project completed.
If anyone wants to volunteer to help let me know.
Blessings on you all,
B.

Bookish: Interview with Mark Obmascik, author of The Big Ye...

2012-02-21T11:47:00.000-08:00

Bookish: Interview with Mark Obmascik, author of The Big Ye...: I'm very excited to be joined today by Mark Obmascik , the bestselling author of Halfway to Heaven: My White-knuckled — and Knuckleheaded ...

Pastimes Quilt Design: Buttery Chewy Sugar Cookies

2012-02-21T11:22:00.000-08:00

Pastimes Quilt Design: Buttery Chewy Sugar Cookies: I am a cookie fanatic. I like cookies better than almost all desserts. I have several sugar cookie recipes but this one is my absolute fav...

Turner Hill Tea: In Short...

2012-02-21T11:04:00.000-08:00

Turner Hill Tea: In Short...: Here's a quick little video on some Green Tea history by tea master Bruce Richardson. Watch here! Young Hyson Tea Gunpowder Tea

Kanelstrand: Step 13: Declutter Your Life

2012-02-21T11:02:00.000-08:00

Kanelstrand: Step 13: Declutter Your Life: A full list of the Simple Living Challenge steps can be found here . "Out of clutter, find simplicity. From discord, find harmony. In t...

clutter leads to lots of things

2012-02-19T15:53:00.000-08:00

Today i feel like my life is filled with clutter. my emotions are cluttered, my home is cluttered, my finances are
cluttered. my business is cluttered. I vow to un clutter all of them this year to the best of my ability.
Sometimes it is harder than others to do this....
Sometimes Life throws us curve balls and we of course do not expect them let alone see them coming.
so they hit hard... right in the heart usually.
Today is one of those days for some dear friends...

They are in the adoption process..
they traveled to be there when the baby was born.
They named her they held her they already love her...
And yet, so does her birth mom and family.....
They chose to keep her.
The baby my friends are all prepared to welcome home with a room and crib and all the things
they did to prepare for her. The job scheduled changed the emotional investments.
So hard....
They came to bring their new baby home, and today
they have to come home without her...

I know the big picture is in God's hands,,,,
and the birth mom not only chose to keep her child and not abort it,
but also now has accepted the responsibility to raise her.
Not an easy choice for one so young.
Still a teenager, yet God knew all of this
and yet we are all so unprepared for His Will to be done....
Is there a way to prepare for these kind of roller coaster rides?
Trust doesn't come easy.... and then this.

Hard.

B.

emotional weekend

2012-02-15T10:15:00.000-08:00

last weekend was a very emotional one for me. I am still recovering and parts of me will be be in recovery for the rest of my life.
Some of my experiences this weekend took me back nearly 38 years to the darkest time of my life. And the music that helped me stay alive and hang on.
I got to meet that musician and tell her a bit of my story and what her music has meant to me and how it pulled me through that dark time. She needed to hear the story as she is in a hard spot herself and needed to know her worth and value, and how God arranged it all. A bit of heaven on earth it was.
Also this weekend i learned of a huge bit of sin in my life a disease that i did not know was a disease that will take me a life time to recover from. My dearest one
heard me and did not condemn me, but will be there to help me through it for the rest of our life.

Nevertheless i am drained. and raw.

But clinging to my Solid Rock Jesus who will never leave me or forsake me.

B.

had a life chainging weekend

2012-02-13T21:38:00.000-08:00

in short, God allowed me to share my darkest time in my life with someone who unknowingly through her music got me through it and kept me a live.. literally.

Today she is at the end of a hard time and beginning anew. and we were able to encourage each
other this weekend.
God is so precious and wonderful to allow us to see bits of heaven here on earth.
That blow us away some times. To just know that someone really cares.

Thank you Pam.
B.

Indelible Grace (feat MP Jones) - Abide With Me

2012-02-10T13:47:00.000-08:00

more habits for 2012 sounds a bit more like me...

2012-02-02T14:48:00.000-08:00

January: Have a regular, earlier bedtime (get more sleep!)
February: Read my Bible daily
March: Exercise Regularly
April: Read Non-Fiction books
May: Drink more water
June: Eat Breakfast daily
July: Set time aside to blog regularly
August: Do more intentional activities with my boys
September: Reduce Email/Facebook time
October: Floss regularly
November: Do physio exercises daily
December: The one that I’ll discover during the year I need to add!

borrowed 12 Habits for 2012

2012-02-02T14:46:00.000-08:00

12 Habits for 2012
January — Going to bed early
February — Getting up early
March — Implementing a morning routine
April — Implementing a evening routine
May — Children have a very consistent bedtime
June — Getting places on time
July — Getting things done early
August — Getting places early
September — Eating breakfast at same time every day
October — Eating lunch at same time every day
November — Eating dinner at the same time every day
December — Drinking 8-10 glasses of water daily

12 Healthy Habits for 2012

by Peter Geiger | Monday, January 2nd, 2012 | From: Healthy Living

Whether you’re in the habit of making New Year’s resolutions or not, consider adding these 12 habits to your daily routine this year for a healthier, happier you!
1. Set your goals for the year and write them down. Have goals for your health, career, family, and include one goal that will force you to stretch beyond your comfort zone. Even if it takes more than a year to accomplish, committing big goals to paper means you’ll be more likely to stay true to your dreams.
2. Exercise on a regular basis. If you can’t fit it in every day, shoot for 30 minutes or more at least three times a week. You can join a gym, buy some exercise equipment, take a dance or martial arts class, start walking with a friend or a pet … It doesn’t matter what you do. Just do it.
3. Eat well. At least three portions a day of fruits and vegetables are a must.
4. Take a nap. Adequate sleep is essential to good health. For most people a solid six to eight hours of sleep every night is ideal. Regular cat naps can also help you feel more rested.
5. Get outdoors. Regardless of the season, go hike, take a walk, jog, bike, canoe – anything done outdoors benefits your health and emotional well-being.
6. Find your passion. When you do something that excites you, it leads to a better quality life. Reading to children, cooking at a shelter, raising money to cure cancer, whatever it is that drives you, pursue it with all of your heart.
7. Forge a strong family. Do things with your family that create lifelong memories. Play with your children or grandchildren, create a movie night, do whatever they enjoy doing, teach them a new skill such as baking or fishing. Whatever you do, do it together.
8. Hug. A few years ago, we had a “Hugs Not Drugs” campaign. It has been proven that people who hug on a regular basis live longer and happier lives. So, add hugging to your must do list for 2012.
9. Invest in good health. Be sure you get an annual physical. If you smoke, quit. Take count of your vital statistics and monitor them. In this case, what you don’t know can hurt you.
10. Take stock of your faith. No matter what you believe in, take some time to reflect on the beliefs and values that give your life meaning. Make sure that the life you’re living aligns with those values, and that you make time for prayer or spirituality, as you define it.
11. Play hard. It’s important to work hard, but playing hard is therapeutic. Whatever way you like to play, be sure you make time for it. Many of my friends are getting on in age but still play in a men’s hockey league. Whether your play includes basketball, baseball, running or more, you’ll never regret time spent playing.
12. Share your love. Before you go to bed, tell your children, grandchildren, spouse, or partner that you love them. The only thing better than saying “I Love You” is hearing it.

You Choose...

'Smell of old books' offers clues to help preserve them

2012-02-02T14:33:00.000-08:00

'Smell of old books' offers clues to help preserve them

Having a Nose for Old Books - The Fine Books Blog

2012-02-02T14:27:00.000-08:00

Having a Nose for Old Books - The Fine Books Blog

Kanelstrand: Weekend DIY: Yarn Bowl

2012-02-01T14:49:00.000-08:00

Kanelstrand: Weekend DIY: Yarn Bowl: Two weeks ago, while discussing DIY ideas about our No New Gifts Christmas I mentioned a lovely yarn bowl that I wanted to make. Most of y...

Kanelstrand: 35 Tips for Green Cleaning With Baking Soda

2012-02-01T14:35:00.000-08:00

Kanelstrand: 35 Tips for Green Cleaning With Baking Soda: Baking soda is easy to use, versatile, and as far as I am concerned, it is the greenest cleaning agent! It can help sanitize nearly anythin...

simple living pledge from Sonya Kanelstrand

2012-02-01T14:30:00.000-08:00

What is simple living?

Identifying what is most important for you and eliminating everything else.
Freeing up time for doing what inspires you and being with the people you love.
Decluttering your mind, your everyday life and your virtual life.
Single-tasking and learning to diminish stress.
Striving to live frugally by wanting less and buying only what is necessary.
Slowing down and being actively present in the moment.
Living a healthy life, including cleaning your home and your body, eating, exercising and thinking.
Striving to be green and sustainable as much as your surroundings allow.
Enjoying the simple pleasures of life.
Simplifying your goals, tasks and expectations.

Actually in December i decided my body and life and brain needed a break like a forever break... so i determined to slow down.
i downloaded every simple living book list blog etc that i could find.
Today i Found Sonya Kanelstrand and she has put my thoughts into her words.
I so agree. Last year was an emotional and physcial challanging year for me.
and this year i said no more... i am staying home getting rid of everything i don't really really want... am selling off my book inventory and i am taking my home and life back and taking names.... It has been brutal.
I also included finances in that simplify my life wish. So i have someone else
hassling with the CCC's and i am just putting my head down and butting on through the days and weeks and one month so far. i am determined to get out of debt not spend any money unless it is absolutely necessary and to read more and stay home, drive less. and pray for money to come in so i can escape and go camping. No camping so far in the near future or far future for that matter.....
i am working every day of the week for more hours than i have in a decade.
and am picking up cans and picking up pennies off the ground. collecting spare change from the clothes drying and car seats. etc... i am reducing every thing i can from the electricity out put... no heat just wood stove most of the time. doing dishes in the sink washing one load of laundry at a time. once a day.
and gritting my teeth too much.

But i have felt the stress most days releasing and i can end everyday with a tired body exhausted actually and sleep all night. Worry yes i have it daily.
Prayers are always flowing, for others more than for myself.
and hanging out in my home is the option i choose to see friends this year.
i am giving it all to this simplify venture. Just trying to read and find every money saving idea i can. I read a blog yesterday about a young man in Australia who lived on a 39 dollar a month food budget. i am trying for couponing more and eating what the coupons bring in... i am also taking more medicine than ever before am in more pain and losing more weight. A whole lot of less is more.

B.

Kanelstrand: Join the Simple Living Challenge!

2012-02-01T14:14:00.000-08:00

Kanelstrand: Join the Simple Living Challenge!: Welcome to a very new year! The holidays are somehow over now and the traces of the cozy hours we were spending just a few days ago are slow...

Andrews Sisters - Accentuate the Positive

2012-02-01T09:19:00.000-08:00

Accentuate the Positive - Bette Midler & Bing Crosby

2012-02-01T09:16:00.000-08:00

Make Your Own Wool Dryer Balls | How to Make and Do

2012-01-29T13:52:00.000-08:00

Make Your Own Wool Dryer Balls | How to Make and Do

How to Make a Scalloped Edge on a Quilt

2012-01-28T15:23:00.000-08:00

from a friend on Facebook

2012-01-28T09:53:00.000-08:00

When you see me on a "good day"
I may look as if nothing’s wrong,
But I, myself, am very aware
That the energy won’t last long.

You may think that I am lazy,
Or I just don’t like to try,
Or maybe I am just depressed,
When sometimes you see me cry.

You may not understand me,
It’s not easy to explain,
The struggles that I so often endure,
As I live each day in pain.

People may offer their opinions,
Thinking that I just need some advice,
Yet they don’t really comprehend,
Although they are trying to be nice.

What for some may be so easy,
Is almost impossible to me,
But because I may look healthy,
Many around me fail to see.

Perhaps it seems that I’m sloppy,
If I would only take more pride,
It’s sad that many don’t stop to see,
The person who is inside.

Planning things is so hard to do,
With each day uncertain fate,
The best that I can do is try,
And oftentimes I have to wait.

Life can be so stressful,
Even when you have your health,
Many people cannot even imagine,
Giving up their dreams and wealth.

While some people may worry,
How to fit everything into each day,
Others of us must struggle,
To even find a way.

So often misunderstood,
Some say that is must be "in my head,"
Yet there are days that it takes all I have
To even get out of bed.

You’d think that if one is weary,
Then why not just take a nap,
But the fatigue at times is so severe,
That nothing seems to help.

If exercise were the answer,
I would just move into a gym,
But intolerance and unbearable pain
Makes it difficult to stay trim.

That’s alright just take a pill--
Medications can always do some good,
However, sometimes the effects are far worse,
Oh, but how wonderful it would be if I could!

Living each day fighting defeat,
Knowing that you can’t give up and quit,
Even though it gets hard to do,
Find ways of accepting it.

I guess it would be a better thing,
If there were a little more support,
Everyone longs for acceptance and love,
As they keep their life in sort.

If I could make the world aware,
Help them to see things in a new light,
Be careful on what they base their view,
That they may receive a new insight.

Then maybe when someone else comes along,
Who is going through something unknown,
They may not feel so hopeless and scared,
And will know that they’re not alone.

Whether it be a terminal thing,
Or something chronic with no known cure,
There are many processes that will be faced
In this we can rest assured.

The grieving over loss is hard,
Whatever the loss may be.
What may be just a bump for you,
Could seem like a mountain to me.

Everyone responds so differently,
We all have our own ways to cope,
But the one thing that we must never do,
Is believe that there’s no hope.

For I faithfully trust in God above,
And no matter what the future may bring,
I know that He is holding my hand,

And He’s in control of EVERYTHING.

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2012-01-25T17:09:00.000-08:00

Dean Christensen: Wind Storm 2006

2012-01-25T14:03:00.000-08:00

Dean Christensen: Wind Storm 2006: Then God said to Jonah, "What right do you have to get angry about this shade tree?" Jonah said, "Plenty of right. It's made me angry enoug...

The Board Room: Who am I

2012-01-25T10:38:00.000-08:00

The Board Room: Who am I: Welcome to my official first post on my first blog!!! I have to say that this is totally weird for me. I am not a writer, nor do I have any...

hopscotch of rambles today

2012-01-19T12:21:00.000-08:00

There is nothing more central to your heart and soul than your view of God.
Our View of God influences our daily lives in countless ways....

Ask people What they have learned today.

A purpose statement for life:
To See self decrease and God increase, as my unpleasant characteristics are crucified and a meek and quiet spirit becomes an alter or worship to give God pleasure.

.. ways of conducting conducting our inward life so we are perpetually bowed in worship while we are also very busy in the world of daily affairs.

Much of the time our fears are irrational, but they are lodged so deep within our hearts that even a scolding of the head does not frighten them away....

Last year i was so weighed down by the carrying other people's problems that i allowed them to be sewn like fabric into my soul, and i felt like a rock had lodged itself in my heart....

Am i a woman of excellence? will i make choices based on the Word of God or on my own emotional desires...

Can i say with Betty Stam.. " Lord. I give up all of my own plans and purposes, all my own desires and hopes, and accept Thy will for my life. I give myself., my time, my all, utterly to Thee to be Thine Forever.
Fill me and seal me with Thy Holy Spirit! Use me as Thou wilt, send me where Thou wilt, work out Thy whole will in my life at any cost, now and forever... Amen.

on the lightest side i want to name my 2 silver tabby cats Cleo and Clancy

Turner Hill Tea: Black Tea

2012-01-18T20:47:00.000-08:00

Turner Hill Tea: Black Tea: I've written about Green, White, Oolong , and Pu'erh teas, I think it is high time I wrote about Black tea. I am a Black tea drinker! In t...

all your life The Band Perry

2012-01-18T19:15:00.001-08:00

Would you walk to the edge of the ocean
Just to fill my jar with sand
Just in case I get the notion
To let it run through my hand
Let it run through my hand

Well, I don't want the whole world
The sun, the moon, and all their light
I just want to be the only girl
You love all your life
You love all your life

Would you catch a couple thousand fireflies
Yeah, put them in a lamp to light my world
All dressed up in a tux and bowtie
Hand deliver to a lonely girl
To a lonely lonely girl

Well, I don't want the whole world
[. From: http://www.elyrics.net/read/b/band-perry-lyrics/all-your-life-lyrics.html .]

The sun, the moon, and all their light
I just want to be the only girl
You love all your life
You love all your life

Lately I've been writing desperate love songs
Mostly I sing them to the walls,
You could be the center piece of my obsession
If you would notice me, I
Ohh yeah

Well I don't want the whole world
The sun, the moon, and all their light
I just want to be the only girl
You love all your life
You love all your life

You love all your life
Life
Yeah

these lyrics are submitted by logan grace <3
these lyrics are last corrected by ThaBoss

Christopher Robin and Pooh by loggins

2012-01-18T18:52:00.001-08:00

Christopher Robin and I walked along
under branches lit up by the moon.
Posing our questions to owl and eeyore
as our days disappeared all too soon.
But I've wandered much further today than I should
and I can't seeem to find my way back to the wood.

So, help me if you can I've got to get
back to the house at Pooh corner by one.
You;d be surprized there's so much to be done,
count all the bees in the hive,
chase all the clouds from the sky.
Back to the days of Christopher Robin and Pooh.

Winnie the Pooh doesn't know what to do,
got a honey jar stuck on his nose.
He came to me asking help and advice
and from here no one knows where he goes.
So I sent him to ask of te Owl if he's there,
how to loosen a jar from the nose of a bear

So, help me if you can I've got to get
back to the house at Pooh corner by one
You'd be surprized there's so much to be done,
count all the bees in the hive,
chase all the clouds from the sky .
Back to the days of Christopher Robin and Pooh,
back to the days of Christopher Robin,
back to the ways of Pooh

pop cans or penny books

2012-01-17T18:18:00.000-08:00

On our way home from our vacation i started noticing and counting all the pop cans along the road side...
after about 100 cans i gave up and decided to go back someday and get them.. hey every penny counts.
I have a couple of nephews by marriage that live to collect cans and bottles. They are young.... like under 10 but they are making some money nearly everyday by collecting bottles. They inspire one.

So all the way home i dreamed of how i could go back and get those pop cans and bottles.
i do not have much energy or stamina so waling the 80 miles one way was pretty much out of the question.
and parking every few feet to pick up the cans would take forever.
I prayed about how i could earn more money to eliminate our debt this year. Extra income is not easy for
us to make. and the years are getting shorter for us.

So i decided i was tired of having a literally house full of used books. that have been sitting on the shelves for years that i would lower my prices dramatically like many many are selling for a penny, but hey i own then
they are steps away and i have a venue to sell them and more coming in all the time. They were all donated
so selling them is a good thing, better than recycling them i believe.... And so my adventure as a penny seller begins.
And i am grateful again for books.
B.

sleep walking and working

2012-01-17T07:06:00.000-08:00

So, last night i went to bed, to sleep.... around 10pm
This morning i woke to find out that i posted a status to my Facebook Account
about how much i love my grandchildren.
I guess even in my sleep walking Ari is number one thing on the brain...
kind of spooky to think what i might do sleep walking.....
B.

snow

2012-01-15T21:41:00.000-08:00

I love snow,,, and the area around us got some but we here at home had very little.
So today my son and daughter in law known together as bember took Dean and i for a drive.
Such a blessing they are to us.
and me especially. they care about and for me and miss me when i am gone so few do these days.
Ben drove us in their new to them ford expedition to Bald Peak park so see snow.....
it was beautiful the big picture on my blog says it all.
Thank for Bember and thankful for snow today.
So far this weekend has bee good.
I feel i did kindgon work and care.

2012-01-15T20:38:00.000-08:00

2012-01-15 14.32.33.jpg

Bember Says: "God gives where He finds empty hands." - St. Augu...

2012-01-14T16:28:00.000-08:00

Bember Says: "God gives where He finds empty hands." - St. Augu...: I recently came across this quote and quickly fell in love with it. The thought of us having to empty ourselves to receive what God has to o...

saturday morning confusion? or inspiration

2012-01-14T15:24:00.000-08:00

today it is a windy stormy winter day and i have been in bed most of it...
spending extra time in my Quiet time and Reading time.
Today i gleaned many things from different sources... of books and here are my highlights.

From the introduction of the book Christians and the Common Good by Charles E. Gutenson. These statements put into words how i feel and what i embrace and what i think today.

in my childhood Following Jesus was a very private matter, It should not have been, for if we are following Jesus-- if indeed it is Jesus we are following-- the last thing it can be is Private... amen to that.
Perhaps the bigger obstacle to our comming to see radical and political implications of Christianity was the extent of our preaching and teaching were focused on individual salvation. The Goal of every church service was to confront people with the choice to accept Christ as their personal savior also. This very narrow idea of what " being saved" is not found in scripture. I personally believe
that the scriptures teach that conversion was merely a first step in a life of increasingly conformity to the image of Christ.Amen and Amen This almost exclusive focus on individual salvation through conversion wreaks havoc on our attention to discipleship. What was really only the First step in our Salvation became the Only step that mattered. In this mindset, everything we do to engage in service to those around us became an instrument of evangelism, and the recipients of our "Giving, Serving Sharing" rarely missed that fact. ...
If George Barna were doing his work back then when i was being raised this way as a fundementalist would he have recorded that there was really no difference between the way we the Christian lived our lives and how the Non Christian did?
What the Bible seems to demand of followers of Jesus followers is far more radical than i grew up hearing or even hearing in my church today. ....

I Desire Jesus to meet my needs. O Trust in His capability to provide for these needs.
"Father in Heaven I desire to trust You in all things, big or small. There are days when I do not know how to pray. At times, i do not know even where to start! But my desire is to follow you. and to please you only. I desire nothing but You Jesus.

Creator God, You hold marriage and family relationships in high regard in your Word. Cause them to be portrayed in literature and in the media and entertainment industries as good and honorable.

For you father created all of us. mom and dads conceive a a child , But You Lord had the idea of the child in your mind and in your heart. The newborn children are eternal and a part of your divine plan. Earthly parents will raise children and they live in their Earth bodies for a while but every human is created in the Your image and your likeness Father God. Parents may name their children but You call them Beloved and their nature spiritual. We are all human for awhile but we are also all spiritual beings not only with ability to contribute to the lives of others, but also with the capacity to allow God to express himself in and through us as well. We are, We live and be. God you have breathed life into us you have spoken our names and your word has become flesh . Lord may you show us why we live.... and give us the courage to do what you ask and want us to do.
Amen

CareOne Debt Relief Services | Manage Your Debt | Blogs

2012-01-13T17:04:00.000-08:00

CareOne Debt Relief Services | Manage Your Debt | Blogs

Chris Tomlin

2012-01-13T12:29:00.001-08:00

Chris Tomlin- Enough Lyrics

All of You is more than enough for all of me
For every thirst and every need
You satisfy me with Your love
And all I have in You is more than enough
You are my supply
My breath of life
And still more awesome than I know
You are my reward
worth living for
And still more awesome than I know
All of You is more than enough for all of me
For every thirst and every need
You satisfy me with Your love
And all I have in You is more than enough
Youre my sacrifice
Of greatest price
And still more awesome than I know
Youre the coming King
You are everything
And still more awesome than I know
[ Lyrics from http://www.songonlyrics.com/chris-tomlin-enough-lyrics ]
More than all I want
More than all I need
You are more than enough for me
More than all I know
More than all I can say
You are more than enough for me
[Chris Tomlin- Enough Lyrics]

state of the heart

2012-01-12T09:22:00.000-08:00

Hearts seem to be poppping up everywhere these days in cards, decorations, fabric, jewelry etc... I have been humbled in my own heart on many occasions.
and now whenever i see a heart i want to remember this:

No environment is more vicious or dangerous than the heart that does not know or love fully or is surrendered only to God. The heart o f a nation, the heart of an education system, the heart of a family, the heart of of pastor, or the heart of the people who go to church that does not truly KNOW AND LOVE God, can be used by Satan to break a personal world to pieces.

I know it has happened to me... through the church mainly.

Ari's Bday shopping at Aster&Bee

2012-01-11T15:24:00.000-08:00

Today is my first jolly holiday with Ari of 2012.

Today we went birthday shopping for His 3rd Birthday presents.
He turned 3 yesterday.

We went shopping at a family shop in pdx, meaning Ari's grandpa's cousins shop!
H owns the Store with her daughter A. And it is a dream of a store.
lots of toys and treats non edible that will take you back to your own childhood if you are a child of the 50's 60's or 70's soft hula hoops, bb pinball hand held games wonderful books. baby items vintage toys and so much more home made vegan toiletries etc.
Today Ari picked out a jr. erector set to play with his daddy. a couple of books
a tin top a tin airplane organic playdough and grandma found a kazoo, a harmonica, and a wooden recorder. he is busy learning all these instruments.
we are playing duets and switching instruments... hopefully not colds.
Grandma found a wonderful carnival wear mini tea set for herself... and granpa found a candle wick cutter. we Scored. and the visit with H. was wonderful.
i will be a frequent shopper.
go check them out if you live in the pdx area they shop and sell local. and are sustainable and green.
I have had a very Jolly Holiday with Ari today!!!
B.

Aster & Bee

2012-01-11T15:06:00.000-08:00

Aster & Bee

Effortless by Rita Springer

2012-01-10T16:10:00.000-08:00

Let my praise, be effortless
Let my song, come easily
And let my worship be pleasing to you

Let my heart be softened, Lord
And my mind be transformed
And let me worship be pleasing to You.

This is my own hearts cry....

12/25/2011

2011-12-25T18:01:00.000-08:00

I am so Thankful that today was Sunday and Christmas day too!
In the branch of church i grew up in and have been in most of my life,
we do not celebrate Christ's birth on Christmas day unless it falls on a sunday.
And yet we call ourselves Evangelical Christians...
That makes no sense to me how we follow a civic USA holiday schedule that glorifies no one
but consumerism and and excuse of over eating drinking and going into debt for things
we do not not need. Yet call ourselves followers of God....
And actually have pastors and other church leaders whine and complain that they have to work on
Christmas instead of be with their family.
or Easter....
I am so ashamed sometimes to be put in a box with these people.....
One that shoves Jesus out and selfishness in....
How can this be?
These Men and Women do not Honor God with their lips or their lifestyle.
They live a mediocre lukewarm existence and yet Say they are spreading the Gospel....
The Gospel of what? i ask or according to Who? God is not in this....
God left His Home in Glory to come into this dark evil world to Save people from sin, and yet those people who claim to follow him do not accept Him or follow Him in ALL their actions just the ones that make
them sound good or look good or make money for sitting reading sports illustrated while on the church time clock at the welcome desk on Christmas morning.... God is not in this...
God is not Glorified by pastors staying home with their families bowing to the pagan God of Santa Clause....
Santa Clause knows who to Worship.
Yet those who worship him do not.
Lord please wake up the Church in America the Evangelical Church in American
that is a grave yard of not so clean whitewashed stones... No one in this dark world needs more
hypocrisy and false religion.
They need to see a True Flat out no holds barred Relationship with you Father. One that shines
like a comet not a fading flashlight.
God you will not be mocked.... But so many are mocking you.

12/22/2011

2011-12-22T19:50:00.001-08:00

Red letter day for me...
I saw Andy,
and Katy and Renjy and Ari and then
i saw Ben and Amber
and Dean before 11 oclock tonight!!!
This time of year it is a red letter day indeed.

12/21/2011

2011-12-21T20:14:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday night after carpooling to the Village players cast party;
my son was returning a friend to their car in the church parking lot it was early in the morning hours of
Monday.
He and the friend were chatting in the car, and a police man came up and knocked on his window.

Washington County Police officer asks what they are doing here in the church parking lot this late or early whichever you prefer. My son explained what they were doing and said it is okay i work here, the officer did not believe him and said " Oh you work here?" Well if you work here then do you know Dean Christensen the worship pastor here?" Andy my son said yeah he is my dad, " Sure he is your dad" and my son says " no really" and pulls out his License to show him that he is Andy Christensen. The officer said after a moment of shock,
" He sang at my wedding" meaning Dean sung at his wedding..... Dean grew up with his wife Susie
and did sing in his wedding..... Rod and Susie....

12/18/2011

2011-12-18T09:53:00.000-08:00

This is how i feel today: Psalm 13

How Long, O Lord?

To the choirmaster. A Psalm of David.

13 vHow long, O Lord? Will you wforget me forever?

How long will you xhide your face from me?

2 How long must I take ycounsel in my soul

and have sorrow in my heart all the day?

How long shall my enemy be exalted over me?

3 zConsider and answer me, O Lord my God;

alight up my eyes, lest bI sleep the sleep of death,

4 clest my enemy say, “I have prevailed over him,”

lest my foes rejoice because I am dshaken.

5 But I have etrusted in your steadfast love;

my heart shall frejoice in your salvation.

6 I will sing to the Lord,

because he has dealt bountifully with me.

This is how God wants me to feel:

Habakkuk 3 :2

I have heard all about you, LORD, and I am filled with awe by the amazing things you have done. In this time of our deep need, begin again to help us, as you did in years gone by. Show us your power to save us. And in your anger, remember your mercy.

This is what my response to God should be:

Habakkuk 3:17-19

¹⁷ Though the fig tree does not bud
   and there are no grapes on the vines,
though the olive crop fails
   and the fields produce no food,
though there are no sheep in the pen
   and no cattle in the stalls,
¹⁸ yet I will rejoice in the LORD,
   I will be joyful in God my Savior.
¹⁹ The Sovereign LORD is my strength;
   he makes my feet like the feet of a deer,
   he enables me to tread on the heights.

God's Word says it all for me today.

B.

12/17/2011

2011-12-17T10:28:00.000-08:00

Lord, make me excellent in all my ways. I confess that there are things I do not know, was not taught, or did not see in my childhood home. But, Lord, in the home that I choose to create, please help me to know what is best so that I may dwell in it, in a way that is pleasing and acceptable unto you.
Show me your ways, O Lord, and teach me Your path. Lead me in truth and teach me Your paths.
Leas me in truth and teach me and I will be careful to give You all the honor, all the glory, and all the praise.
Amen

Meadow to Grove: Chicken Licken Illustration Entry for the Tomie De...

2011-12-15T16:48:00.000-08:00

Meadow to Grove: Chicken Licken Illustration Entry for the Tomie De...: So they went along and went along until they met Turkey Lurkey “Good morning, Goosey Loosey, Ducky Daddles, Cocky Locky, Henny Penny, an...

Today

2011-12-11T11:30:00.000-08:00

Leaders in our churches are to be empowered with these six things, necessary to lead the church.
Wisdom ( maturity plus insight)
Understanding ( depth plus empathy),
Counsel ( sound advice and decisions).
Might ( power used justly)
Knowledge ( scholarship plus enlightenment )
and especially Fear ( reverence and humility) before God.

i am wondering when the evangelical church in the world stopped using these guidelines when
picking their elders deacons and pastors....
i know more lay people with these qualities in my own church than leaders in the church.

Today i am praying for the leaders in my own church this prayer.

Lord God, almighty and everlasting Father, You have brought me safely to this new day. Preserve me with your mighty power, that I may not fall into sin, nor be overcome by adversity; andIN ALL I DO direct me to the fulfilling of your purpose; through Jesus Christ my Lord.
Lord may the leaders in my church be urged to pray this for themselves as well.

Amen.

Praying for the Refugee Highway

2011-12-08T11:27:00.000-08:00

Praying for the Refugee Highway

home

2011-12-03T17:20:00.000-08:00

i have been in a mad frenzy these last few weeks to get my home in order.
To....
Enjoy it! so i won't have to go camping to relax and read and rejuvenate it has taken
much of my strength. and the visit to the dentist yesterday was hard on me.
Fatigue as set in......
But my home is reasonably clean... it will never shine like in my early days of marriage but
it will do for the 3 of us who live here.
And i won't even be ashamed or embarrassing if or when any family or friends should choose to stop by for a visit.

I am thankful for my home, when so many do not have one, and i am thankful for leisure time.
and even when i have to rest 95% of the day now these days i feel good about my home.

Wishbone

2011-12-01T11:06:00.000-08:00

one of the devotional verses i read today was about taking your care and concerns to The Lord.
Some of them are really heavy and very hard... to confess sins and ask for forgiveness and to wait
what seems like a lifetime to hear an answer.
Then i went to the kitchen to make a batch of bread and while i was washing my hands in the sink,
i looked up to find the Wishbone from our Thanksgiving Turkey hanging in the window above me.
Who ever thought of that Turkey Wishbone? and called a wishbone and then decided to wish upon it?
do any of you know the wishbone story?

MS sometimes i forget i have it...

2011-12-01T10:33:00.001-08:00

and then some days it overwhelms me.

http://www.29gifts.org/forum/topic/show?id=2039308%3ATopic%3A1234873

Countdown to Christmas | Hallmark Channel

2011-11-30T14:59:00.000-08:00

Countdown to Christmas | Hallmark Channel

bookshop

2011-11-28T18:57:00.000-08:00

i had a delightful holiday with Ari today and was able to give 21 boxes of books to Ukids school and orphanage
in Uganda. That is why i do what i do... books books every where and not a place to sit and read.. but
when i can give to others because others have given to me it is always worth the clutter.

Tomorrow i shall work really hard on taming the books in the living room so i can have a Christmas tree.

Thank full for a wonderful husband who lets me live in my own book shop.
B.

Alice's Restaurant Illustrated (Part 2)

2011-11-23T20:17:00.001-08:00

Alice's Restaurant Illustrated (Part 1)

2011-11-23T20:17:00.000-08:00

Home

2011-11-23T20:00:00.000-08:00

Home

do you want to be a senior today?/Jello

2011-11-22T17:58:00.000-08:00

At the end of a full shopping cart being checked the young cashier asked me if i would like to be a senior today and get the tuesday senior discount. I said i would love too but i am not a senior by age yet... :(!
after unloading the car and the bags and putting everything away i looked at the receipt... The sweet pea gave me the senior discount anyway!
kind of a pay it forward kind of thing i guess... i came home and stamped and mailed about 60 christmas cards for a friend in another country. while listening to Christmas Music....
i have a jolly holiday with Ari tomorrow and then Thanksgiving Thursday.....
Tonight i made Jello for a cranberry salad for T day. Pray that it turns out. The only thing i simply cannot make successfully usually is Jello......

tea

2011-11-10T12:50:00.000-08:00

i am about to indulge in my favorite afternoon ritual TEA from Turner hill teas. com
Today i can hardly wait to try Pomegranite black tea http://www.turnerhilltea.com/ look for it here.
as i read and work for the rest of the day....

jolly holiday day

2011-11-09T14:15:00.000-08:00

here i am sitting on the couch with Ari, he is munching on a round muffin ( English Muffin) and watching sprout and i am surfing the web and trying to wake up completely. we woke up from a Nap together just a bit ago. Grandma's love to take
naps with their grand children....
i am remembering a dear new friend and her wee family today, as i woke up to
a friend request on FB... from her.
She is in a far away land, but one i have been too and loved my time there.
I picture her and her wee ones playing and reading and doing life. And i remember
how hard it is to be a wife and mother to a husband who is busy doing what he loves and we the mom and wife had put our lives on hold to raise babies.
It seems like a forever time when you are in it, thinking you will never get to do
your thing or use your gifts and education ever again. But you will. Babies grow
fast and soon you will be totally fufilled as well.
I know.....

crop circles and wilderness

2011-11-07T12:24:00.000-08:00

As we flew home the miles between dubai and omnsk were lots of crops in different ways than i have ever seen
long narrow crops in rows each row a different color so i assumed a different crop.
and also huge crop circles that can be seen from 30.000 feet that were like multiflavored pies or pizzas

thin slices big slices medium slices all different colors again and all i assumed different crops.
so a village could it seemed grow all that they needed in one field or area.
if i were a farmer i would try this myself.

And the miles of wilderness and sand and hills were overwhelming almost.
knowing anyone could get lost in the area or hide or retreat. showing once again
that the world is not over populated just high density populated in certain area's. i am waiting to see
how God and his New Earth and kingdom on this earth will populate it.

http://www.vistaprint.com/vp/ns/livepreview.aspx?Log=0&doc_id=1304348935&page=1&width=125&renderMode=3

2011-11-06T16:38:00.000-08:00

http://www.vistaprint.com/vp/ns/livepreview.aspx?Log=0&doc_id=1304348935&page=1&width=125&renderMode=3

little babushkas knitting on the plane

2011-11-04T16:06:00.000-07:00

on the longest leg of our return trip their were several babushkas.. one nearly the century mark i am sure.
She wore a head scarf the whole time and seemed fragile but was pretty sturdy and spoke broken English
when she needed too. but was an American citizen.
About 1/2 way into our 15 hour flight which was supposed to be the middle of the night, yet the sun shone the whole plane trip to the shades were put down and the lights off to assimilate darkness.
The babushka digs into a plain plastic bag for her 14 inch knitting needles and her yarn. ( knitting needles are forbidden on planes) but somehow she passed security with them... she spent the remainder of the trip with her seat light on and knitting a piece of intricate design. tiny stitches with multiple colors with her frail blue veined arthritic knuckled hands...

this is a favorite memory of the return trip.

one day at a time in review

2011-11-04T12:46:00.000-07:00

Our India trip was amazing....
yet the one picture that sticks in my mind is of a tiny naked baby girl just able to pull herself up on her elbows lying right next to the road. meaning if a car swerved there would be no more baby girl.
It is so difficult to think of living one foot from the shoulder line of a more than busy hiway.
Yet i have to trust in my Fathers wise bestowment. He cares for her as well.

Addiction

2011-11-04T12:22:00.000-07:00

Addiction

The world's most stunning treehouses | MNN - Mother Nature Network

2011-11-04T12:18:00.000-07:00

The world's most stunning treehouses | MNN - Mother Nature Network

Ari'sgma: Less than 24

2011-10-18T11:06:00.000-07:00

Ari'sgma: Less than 24: Okay, here goes... i am packing up my suitcase and carry on... Feeling good feeling everyones prayers.... thank you... keep them coming...

Less than 24

2011-10-18T11:05:00.000-07:00

Okay, here goes...
i am packing up my suitcase and carry on...

Feeling good feeling everyones prayers.... thank you...
keep them coming.
My prayer is for Health and Safety for us as we travel and stay in India.
Or courage and strength in spite of it.
And also For God's Mercy Grace and Favor and Compassion.

These things i can ask for.
Our Son Andy our #1 pet sitter just got a full time job today.
So our dogs need some extra care because Andy wont' be home in the day...
Rueben cannot go 8 hours without a potty break... Buddy really can't either.
This is stressing me out a bit.
Moxie is safely loved and cared for by Jamie and Merlin in The Dalles,
so no worries for her.
Pray for Andy as he is stressed as well.
We leave in the morning.
We feel embraced by the prayers of friends and family and we rely on that
for all of this trip.
And we do not take that for granted or lightly.
Others here at home are facing much harder journeys than this.
And we are praying for those who have recently lost loved one, or have loved one
sick or recently diagnosed with Cancer.. My heart goes out to them and my prayers stay upon them.
Thank you,
Resting on your prayers,
Becki

Best of friends Hurley and Flynn. #fb on Twitpic

2011-10-15T18:31:00.000-07:00

Best of friends Hurley and Flynn. #fb on Twitpic

Why Buy Local? [Infographic]

2011-10-14T10:50:00.000-07:00

Why Buy Local? [Infographic]

Turner Hill Tea: Another Giveaway!

2011-10-13T22:10:00.000-07:00

Turner Hill Tea: Another Giveaway!: Autumn is here! And here in the Pacific NW, so is the rain! So, its time for lots of hot tea, and enjoying the changing season! So here's th...

Mostly discouraged

2011-10-13T17:08:00.000-07:00

There are days i just want to curl up and die...
and this is one of them.

Getting ready for this trip to India
raising support
overdraft at the bank, due to a double payment of a bill, and the company doesn't due refunds
just gives you credit for the next month... well that doesn't help today...
i have financial stress more than anything.
i am hoping book sales increase mightily after our trip
and or i will be out looking for a job...
or miracles.

one week to India

2011-10-12T13:01:00.000-07:00

I saw my neurologist this morning and he says i am doing well and am good to go.
He was intrigued by our trip to India, and said he wants to hear about it when i return.

I am still thinking on what books to take....
it changes every day.
and i am finishing up my big to do before i go list.
I was able to complete a large project yesterday so i am now free to rest
up for the trip.
My prayer is that i would be able to rest and be prepared.
And yes Spiritual warfare is happening and yes we are being bombarded.
But God is in the details and He is able and He will prevail.
Pray for endurance, wisdom and a merciful compassionate heart to be shown
by me towards all that i will see meet and learn to love on this trip.
meaning the travel time as well.
I will be traveling with a wheel chair or scooter in the airports.
So pray that my team mates at least Dean can be with me at all times.
On my last trip to India i was transported alone several times and it was an
unnerving experience. Although i can hear now so deafness won't exacerbate
the problem.
Dean has much to do to get ready and is prepping daily, and also preparing for the stuff that has to be "covered" while we are gone.
our financial update will be coming soon.
Thank you to all who have sacrificed in giving to this trip.
God is going to do great things, because those who are faithful to obey his commands can rely on His promised blessing. I am so excited to see how far
the net is cast and when we get to glory we shall know.

B.

2 weeks 2 tired to finish this blog

2011-10-04T16:54:00.000-07:00

in two weeks we will be on a plane to India,
and we have lots to do....
Puppy "fixed" today check..

packing, ........

um... i cannot remember what else.

....

Dean Christensen: A Passage to India

2011-09-21T18:16:00.000-07:00

Dean Christensen: A Passage to India: Becki & I are headed to India in October. Click the picture to the left to read about what we'll be doing while we're there.

Getting over Spiritual Abuse

2011-09-21T09:20:00.000-07:00

Dallas Willard says in The Spirit of the Disciplines:
We are a little less than a god because our life is of such a nature that it can draw upon the infinite resources of God:
I have spent much of my life in a place of Spiritual Abusiveness. And have been struggled with how to be like God when so many others in my Church experience
have not shown me God in their behavior.
So many church pastors and leaders are spiritually toxic.
They like to label and define people into categories according, to age, interests,
their perception of the persons Spiritual maturity and gifting.
The world that they model themselves after like to use descriptions like your job title, your role, function and salary worth.
If you ask them to describe themselves they will say I am the Execuative, Pastor,
Board Chairman, Pastor etc.
But these are not important to God. The Question I must ask myself is How
does God view me, how does He ID me.

The Bible says that our identity is in Christ, not in the circumstances of your birth, your job title , your economic standing, or your ability to control or please others.
This positive identity transcends all human perspectives, freeing us to live out our true calling from God. ( and even that term can be abused, as i see so many
leadership and spiritual books on how to lead now using the word Call in their title and form).
Our Indentity in Christ is a constant source of strength. Our Hope is not in our power or righteousness or self discipline or title in the church. But in God's power working in and through us.
I usually am made to focus on what i am not: not good enough, mature enough,
pretty enough, extroverted enough, educated enough.. just plain not good enough.
But God sees me differently. He sees me as being uniquely created and beautiful in His eyes. I am made in His image and a forgiven child in Christ.
When we claim our identity in Christ , ww can have a peaceful confindence ent in His declaration of who we are.
Circumstances may change mistakes may be made, abuse may be shown toward us in the form of controlling us, marginalizing us and not being used along with labels given to us by those
Spiritually abusive leaders in our community.
But God sees us as perfect and complete in His Son. This identity offers a solid
foundation that gives us room to grow and change, encourage new interests and ministry opportunities and adventures. It is large enough for a lifetime and allows us to explore who we are and who we can become.

Our Identity as God's beloved child will improve our relationships, freeing us from those who try to use and manipulate us, and make us want to control others. We no longer have to conform to their sterotypes and roles and whims,
for who and what we should be and how we should minister and live.
We can revel in our own identity and accept others differences without letting them use and abuse and control us.
We can Stand up for what we believe without the need to kow tow to the abusers
and without trying to control others.
We do not need to be or feel superior to others

We must Enjoy the freedom and explore our potential of our GOD given not those who are our spiritually abusive leaders. And can know that we are very special people in our Fathers eyes....

Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge

2011-09-18T19:06:00.000-07:00

Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge

Spring vacation destination next year... moose!

Royalty Free Stock Image: Bird eggs in nest

2011-09-17T10:35:00.000-07:00

Royalty Free Stock Image: Bird eggs in nest

A Passage to India

2011-09-15T11:43:00.001-07:00

Dean & I are headed to India in October. Click on the picture to read about what we'll be doing while we're there.

escape

2011-09-11T09:00:00.000-07:00

my daughter called yesterday to tell me that she has a "little Ben" on her hands....
meaning my grandson decided to leave home without her, and go exploring....
Ben my oldest and Her big brother did this often when he was young... like less than 2 years of old
and he would just go to where he believed the fun and action to be.... He started walking at a church social because he saw one of his adult friends in the food line and decided he had to go see them, so off he went,
running accross fellowship hall to go find somebody... as i gaped in wonder. And then it happened oh so
often after that. He decided one day to go to the park two blocks away while I was busy changing his sister's diaper. He was 2. so... this is what my daughter means when she says Ari is a little Ben .
When Katy was cooking dinner, she all of a sudden was aware that it was way to quiet....
and went looking for Ari... The front door was wide open...
and he had decided to cross the street and visit the neighbors yard. \

Time for high locks on the doors...

The 9/11 “Go Shopping” Myth | A Guy Named Dave

2011-09-10T11:16:00.000-07:00

The 9/11 “Go Shopping” Myth | A Guy Named Dave

9/11 Bud Commercial - AIRED ONLY ONCE

2011-09-10T10:32:00.000-07:00

Where Were You When The World Stopped Turning?

2011-09-10T10:17:00.000-07:00

Turner Hill Tea: Tea and Cancer

2011-09-08T16:46:00.000-07:00

Turner Hill Tea: Tea and Cancer: Having lost my husband to cancer, that word, cancer, always makes my stomach go cold when I hear of a friend, or love one who has to deal wi...

women who read...

2011-09-08T16:42:00.000-07:00

Never Argue with a Woman
> >
> >
> > One morning, the husband returns the boat to their lakeside
> > cottage after several hours of fishing and decides to take a nap.
> >
> > Although not familiar with the lake, the wife decides to take the
> > boat out.
> > She motors out a short distance, anchors, puts her feet up,
> > and begins to read her book.
> > The peace and solitude are magnificent.
> >
> > Along comes a Fish and Game Warden in his boat.
> > He pulls up alongside the woman and says, 'Good morning, Ma'am.
> > What are you doing?'
> >
> > 'Reading a book,' she replies, (thinking, 'Isn't that obvious?')
> >
> > 'You're in a Restricted Fishing Area,' he informs her.
> >
> > 'I'm sorry, officer, but I'm not fishing. I'm reading.'
> >
> > 'Yes, but I see you have all the equipment.
> > For all I know you could start at any moment.
> > I'll have to take you in and write you up.'
> >
> > 'If you do that, I'll have to charge you with sexual assault,' says
> > the woman.
> >
> > 'But I haven't even touched you,' says the Game Warden.
> >
> > 'That's true, but you have all the equipment..
> > For all I know you could start at any moment.'
> >
> > 'Have a nice day ma'am,” he said and he left.
> >
> > MORAL:
> > Never argue with a woman who reads.
> > It's likely she can also think.
> > =

Day by Day

2011-09-07T18:47:00.000-07:00

Day by Day

2011-09-07T18:46:00.000-07:00

life and death

2011-09-07T13:03:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow we will travel some miles to grieve with our friends the Thackery family.
Bernie went home to Jesus last saturday morning. My husband will help with the services in Salem
with the music and is officiating at the graveside service up in a cemetery where so many loved ones lie.
The Willamette National Cemetery in Portland Oregon.
My parents are buried their and so many others that we know.
In fact Dean my husband did his first funeral there for his uncle, when he was 28 years old. Dean that is.

Marilyn the daughter of Bernie is soon to say her earthly goodbye to her husband Steve as he lies dying
of cancer this day. Soon he along with Bernie and the others will step into the presence of Jesus.
Where there is no pain, there are no tears there is NO MORE DEATH!

I am so ready for this life to be over.... and so ready for eternity with Jesus...

Even so Lord Come Quickly....

Turner Hill Tea: The Language of Tea

2011-09-05T17:59:00.000-07:00

Turner Hill Tea: The Language of Tea: I just was reading an article about a new shipment of tea that arrived for a tea company. It was a Second Flush Darjeeling SFTGOP1 Tippy. Y...

Salvation Dallas Willard Quote of the day speaks to me.

2011-09-04T08:52:00.000-07:00

Once salvation is relegated to mere forgiveness of sin, though, the discussions of salvation's nature are limited to debates about the death of Christ, about which arrangements involving Christ's death make forgiveness possible and actual. Such debates yield "theories of attonement:. And yet through these theories the connection between salvation and LIFE both his life and ours becomes unitelligible. And if remains unitelligible to everyone who attempts to understand salvation through those theories alone. Why? It is because they are of no use in helping us, as the apostle Paul puts it, to understand how, being reconciled to God by the death of his son, we are then "saved by his life" Romans 5:10. How can we saved by his life when we believe salvation comes from his death alone? So if we concentrate on such theories exclusively, the body and therefore the concrete life we find ourselves in are lost to the redemption process. And when that happens, how else could we see the disciplines for the spiritual life but as historical oddities, the quaint but misguided practices of troubled people in far-off and benighted times... From The Spirit of the Disciplines understanding how God changes lives by Dallas Willard.

gave up on one added two more

2011-09-03T12:21:00.000-07:00

I decided i just could not get into read over 100 pages and couldn't connect,
and time is precious to me. So i picked up 2 more books from the library to read. and one to listen to as i quilt and ride about town.

Turner Hill Tea: Sampling Results

2011-09-01T13:38:00.000-07:00

Turner Hill Tea: Sampling Results: So, here are the results of my green tea cupping.
Sweet Ginger- Oh my, very nice! It was my favorite! It has a very nice ginger flavor, an...

reading from my own shelves using up stashes and cashing in cans.

2011-09-01T13:36:00.000-07:00

i have finished 2 books in 2 days
1) Spider Web by Erlene Fowler and
2) A Stolen life by Jaycee Dugan

Today i hope to finish book three.
Although i am not trying to read a book a day because i often read so many at once it is a bit easier to do at certain times than others. But i am challenged by the challenge.

I am also in the process of using up all my stashes this year,
fabric and yarn stashes to be clear.

This is going to be quite a year.
Today i started A Passage to India and The book of unholy mischief. one a library book and one from my shelf.
I still have a few books on my hold list at the library so i am not opposed to reading a few from the library now and then.
Just don't want to buy more of anything this year.

Today i also started cashing in cans... i am doing a self motivated Dave Ramsey type plan to pay off more bills. i am cashing in cans to earn a little extra to add to my monthly payments on my debts.
Starting with the lowest amount debt of course and rolling that payment etc. onto the next one... should only take me about 3-5 years unless i find lots of cans and bottles to cash in.

But today is kind of my January 1 resolution day. I am also trying to walk a bit every day as well.
Andy and i took a nice stroll around Dawson Creek Pond today...

Tarrymore at The Table: Best Peach Cobbler EVER!!!!!

2011-08-30T13:53:00.000-07:00

Tarrymore at The Table: Best Peach Cobbler EVER!!!!!: Ruth Danhoff served this at a CRC Choir picnic one of the first years we lived in Ohio. I fell in love with it and Ruth graciously gave...

Tarrymore at The Table: Perfect summer meal by the pool

2011-08-30T13:52:00.000-07:00

Tarrymore at The Table: Perfect summer meal by the pool: Ahhh.... Warm night, cooking on the grill under a shaded pergola on the deck.... dipping in the pool in between turning over the chicken.. a...

Profile Pictures (2)

2011-08-28T18:26:00.000-07:00

Profile Pictures (2)

my latest finished book

2011-08-28T16:34:00.001-07:00

The Reading Promise: My Father and the Books We Shared