Faith & Action~

Hello Fellow Bloggers~

It seems that just as life seems to calm down a little there is always something that comes along to heighten a fear(s) that had been lurking all along. Has anyone else ever experienced this?

Sometimes I get discouraged because I want all lingering fears and the insecurity and doubts that go with them to disappear entirely, but that isn't the case, is it? We can push them aside, but then that bump in the road shows itself, and we are forced to reexamine them all over again. I think we can be hard on ourselves thinking that with faith we should completely be rid of our fears and try too hard to free ourselves. Maybe I'm wrong, but with the world the way it is today, I just don't see that it's entirely possible. We are sinners living in a sinful world with Satan lurking. Fear isn't always a bad thing. It should remind us that this world isn't about us.

That's exactly where our faith comes into play the most. We should confess, hand over our fears (as much as we can) to the Lord, realizing we are human and will still have all of these things that scare us, even with a deep faith. We can then rise above to do His will, and that's what makes overcoming struggles so encouraging, knowing that in our sinful bodies we can still enjoy our lives and accomplish the plan that God gives each of us, fears, sins & all!

So does something scare you? Admit the fear and ask God to help you push past it. I'm finding that the older I get, more and more frightens me, but I'm trying to remind myself that it's God who will comfort me and give me the peace I need to move forward. Am I always successful? Nope. I still sit back when I should act, but I am confident that God will use and mold me, no matter what. God is good!

Enjoy the Journey!

Are ya going crazy yet?

Hello Fellow Bloggers!

The kiddies are in school and a routine is starting to emerge once again. If your experience is like mine, time sneaks up on you. One minute everything is moving at an even pace, and then whoosh, a big wind threatens to toss us into a week from Tuesday. Or maybe it's just me?

It's nice to get everything back to normal, whatever normal happens to be, but for some reason, I am caught off guard every Fall for what I know is coming. Silly, isn't it? It's not anything earth shattering, a few stops here and there to Target, the local dollor stores, Walgreens, and office stores, and of course school shopping, but I'm sure there are people who prepare for the insanity better than I do. With me, it's one day I have some free time and then I don't. No in between...no getting prepared...whammy, it just smacks me in the side of the head. Where did the day go?

Well, I might not be any more prepared today than I was seventeen years ago when my daughter first started school, but I have learned a few things a long the way to help ease the anxiety:

1. Know your limits. If you have children, Fall gets crazy fast, for many, without any warning, or for some, like myself, who are in denial until the last minute. Try not to take on more than absolutely necessary. Some can handle extra, fine. Go for it. Just as long as you know you can handle it with everything else that is in the schedule. Otherwise, there is a two letter word that many women still don't know how to use. What is it? "NO."

2. Don't panic. It all rushes on us like a big wave, but remember, for most of us, it's not our first time. We have done it before, we can do it again. If this is your first year, enjoy it. Keep a positive attitude and 'try' to find some humor when you have just purchased an expensive notebook that your child decides not to use--right away, they say, and know it will not be used. The worst part of this? You did the same thing the year before. Any more grays pop out?

3. Find an outlet of expression. This time is usually about everyone else but you...your thoughts and cares are pushed aside and it becomes your goal to make sure the family is situated between children starting school, getting physicals/dentist appts out of the way and then of course any other extracurricular activities and sports. Try to sneak time in for your devotions, prayer, other interests and hobbies...whatever they are. Get creative to find a few minutes here and there to remember your individuality. You can do it.

4. This is number four, but mark it number one. Because after all of the above, you'll need it. Remember to soak in the bathtub. I mean it. Don't laugh and say, 'yeah, right.' Do it. Come home and wash off the worries of the world. Put a nice soothing soy candle in the room with you with the light off...oh yeah, that is relaxation. Anyone asks something through the door, and you need the time to be alone, say just that. "I need some time. I'll be out in ten minutes." There, that wasn't too hard, was it? Ten minutes with epsom salts in your bathtub, and you'll be refreshed for whatever else comes your way. Well, almost. Oh and I have a glass of wine with mine, shh...don't tell anyone.

5. Try to remember you and spouse are a couple that still need to have a few minutes of alone time amongst the crazy schedules. A quick lunch alone, maybe? A massage? There are many ways to show support during this busy time. It makes everything so much easier when Mom & Dad are happy and getting along.

6. This one is the most important. Don't be too hard on yourself when you forget the above and freak out, lose your patience and stomp up & down because you bought the wrong color notebook or forgot to pay a bill or forgot to wash your son's special shirt. We all do it. It happens. I'm not all convinced it's a bad thing for our kids to see. We're not perfect, but we are thankful to our Lord that we have another day to work on it once again.

As always, somehow, someway, find joy in your journey! And I am reading my own list as a reminder as I struggle for my sanity. And reminding myself and other fellow bloggers that above all, God is good and will take care of all of us!

God bless!

Books, books and more books!

Hello Fellow bloggers!

I know that it is common knowledge that there are local bookstore consignment shops that would love your books...but until noticing a cute little shop up north, I had forgotten about them.

For booklovers like myself, these shops are a place close to heaven. I wish I had all day just to explore all they have to offer. I brought in a 'few' books last fall to the above mentioned bookstore, and stopped by this summer to see if I had made 'big bucks' (really not expecting anything). I had made $13! Now, I know that sounds about as exciting as my 'big' article compensation, but that's keeping in mind that most books go for $3 there and my cut is 1/3. Not too shabby.

The reason I mention this is to remind all of the booklovers out there to look up their local bookstores! I love consignment shops regardless of the type because it is a win-win situation. I love the fact that my books are in the hands of others who care just as much about them as I do. And I have a little spending money for MORE BOOKS! ;)

I have also been checking out the local library's collection of used books for sale, knowing garage sales are even better, but those are tougher for me to get to. I can get a book for a buck. Of course, I also use the library, but found that I'm a little too lax about bringing books back...imagine that. The fees are usually higher, so I might as well buy the book, right? Then get my money back from the consignment shop!

Hey, there is logic there somewhere, I know there is! Okay, so if you are sane and can't see my logic, then will you appreciate the fun in it, like I do? Hmmm...my hubbie might not agree as he helps me carry the bags of books to the consignment shop! What a good guy!

And don't forget, somehow...someway...ENJOY THE JOURNEY!

Good News!

Hello fellow bloggers~

On the way home from work yesterday, I was thinking about an article that I had submitted a few months ago to Everton's Genealogical Magazine. I had submitted a short fiction yesterday to Rosebud and it made me think of it. Well, when I got home, guess what was in the mail??

A contract! Of course the payment is small, but as I tried to explain to my son, it is the respect of having my writing published that matters to me...of course, it would be nice if it was $250 instead of $25...picky, picky.

Seriously, it has been almost two years since I've had anything published, esp since I have been concentrating on my novel, and I was beginning to feel frustrated. (okay, I was 'already' frustrated ;) It is a respectable magazine and I'm glad to be a part of it. This will make my third published article with them and already have plans for a fourth relating to the life of my unknown great-grandmother from New England area. I'm currently researching for it.

I am making progress with my novel as well. It was slow going. I was constantly getting battered that it was not up to par. As I have said before, I am currently working with an instructor from one of my writing groups and that has helped tremendously. I was missing some basic techniques that was really hindering my efforts. So I took some time to learn more, and am finally making seeing improvement. Of course, it will be ten years before it is probably ready for market, but hey, why not try?

Thanks for letting me share my good news!

God bless!

Azar Nafisi non-fiction: "Reading Lolita in Tehran"

Hello Fellow Bloggers~

Just curious if anyone out there has read Nafisi's non-fiction, "Reading Lolita in Tehran: A Memoir in Books. I actually picked it up at used bookstore up north. I'm going to re-read it to fully appreciate everything the author is trying to tell us.

I enjoyed it tremendously and learned a lot, wondered if anyone else enjoyed it as much as I did, AND to highly recommend it, especially to the ladies (not to be sexist, of course.)

Although our country has big issues, after reading this book, I have a greater appreciation for the freedom we (esp women) have in America. It also has great information on literature interweaved. Beautifully written!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reading_Lolita_in_Tehran "The book narrates the personal and intellectual events of a private literature class Nafisi started in Tehran after leaving her teaching post at the University of Allameh Tabatabei. The class consisted of seven of her best female students, who met at Nafisi's house every Thursday morning from 1995 to 1997 to discuss forbidden works of Western literature.[2] In this private class, they also discussed the situation in Iran shortly after revolution (1978-1981)."

Whether you agree with the political viewpoints shared in this book, it is an enjoyable and informative read, and fellow writers will truly appreciate the literary excellence.

Click on above link if interested in more information on the book.

Would love to have this as part of a writing group, but that is very tough to do, esp with magnitude of the issues this book explores. If anyone is interested, please let me know.

Enjoy the journey!

-Lisa

ANTICIPATION~

The Box
I stare out the front picture window and see really big snowflakes coming down from the sky. I want to make a snowman. My hands and chin are propped on the windowsill. I look at the clock on the wall, and the hand isn’t moving at all. I know it’s not because I’ve been staring at it, and if the hand is moving, it isn’t moving fast enough. I felt like this on my last birthday when I turned eight years old.

My eyes look at the street in front of my house. Where are they? This isn’t good. Not good at all. Suddenly, I see a car coming down the road. This must be the one. No, no, no! Not the neighbor’s big old truck. I think it’s ugly.

I press my face up against the cold window and try to look down the road further when finally, I see glaring car lights approaching through the falling snow. Please, please, please…be the right one. Yea they’re here, I say to myself as I jump up and down. “They’re here,” I yell.

I race to the door as fast as my legs can carry me and run right into my two brothers who must have heard me. I glare at them, and then continue running to the door.

My tummy starts to rumble and tumble, like it does when I have to say something in front of the whole class at school. I fling open the door just in time to see it. The box. It’s the biggest box I’ve ever seen. It must be 100 feet tall. It’s even bigger than last year! I don’t think my Grandpa can carry it, but he does. He is strong. He grins when he drops this box down at my feet. My face feels warm. I know what’s in that box. Can you guess what’s in there? Extra water fills my mouth as I think about it.

Okay, I’ll tell ya. There are millions and millions of goodies. Gooey cookies like chocolate chip, oatmeal and raisin, peanut butter and chocolate fudge with nuts in it, and every kind of sugar snack you can think of. My brothers and I scoot down in front of the box after it has been placed on a nearby chair.

My mouth hits the floor, and I quickly close it because spit starts to fall out from smelling Grandma’s cookies. I just want one. I yank on my Mom’s apron. She says no. Each little goodie has its on box, whether it’s a shoebox or a Tupperware. I lift one of the lids as I look over my shoulder for Mom or Dad, but no one is watching.

Daddy and Grandpa are still bringing presents in from Grandpa’s truck, and Mommy sighs. My brothers are putting the presents under the tree. They hold and shake presents as they laugh and try to guess what they are.

Smiling, I open the lid of one of the little boxes, and inside are the best looking cookies in the whole, wide world. I grab one of the frosted sugar cookies, and take a big bite. Crumbs fall to the floor. Oh sorry. Do you want one?

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Written by Lisa Braendle

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I wrote this a while back. It brought back powerful, happy memories, and hope it makes you smile. As I revised it (again), I wondered how happy God would be if we were in this much anticipation for our Lord's return. Just something to think about.

Coincidence?

Just a quick note,

My hubbie got up to get coffee and donuts this morning and realized when he pulled into our driveway with smoke coming out of the hood of the truck; the alternator was fried. Not a good thing on any day, for sure, but the only thing I could think of right away was the fact that the truck could have had problems last weekend when our son was driving up to Ludington or worse when we were traveling to or from New York! So while it's not fun to deal with car repairs, I am thankful that it was today and not on any of those days.

Coincidence?

Family Time~

Well, my family and I got back a week or so ago from a long weekend to celebrate our son’s 16th b-day. While I would love to show you a few pics that we took, I have no idea how to upload.

We took our son to Cooperstown NY to see the Baseball Hall of Fame Museum, and on the way, we stopped to see Niagara Falls, Canada. We had only planned to stay for lunch there, but ended up staying the whole afternoon. Wow! I wish we could have stayed the night there to see the colors of Niagara Falls at night. We just didn’t expect to have been blown away by the natural beauty there.

We had lunch on the second level deck of a nice restaurant, which overlooked the falls. The ambiance of the whole town fascinated us; a nice balance between yesterday and today. As I gazed upon the falls rushing down on both the American and Canadian side, I wondered how anyone could dismiss God. It is usually when I witness something so spectacular that I reaffirm my faith in our Maker, like the miracle of birth.

As the Maid of the Mist tour boat inched closer to the falls, I was transformed from tourist to Child of God, one of awe of the beauty of something so natural, so full of life. The only thing that took away from this was the view of a surrounding large lighted Casino sign. The place is a part of an ever-changing world, so while we enjoyed lunch at an updated restaurant that seemed to fit the atmosphere, the commercialism of glitsy signs and tourist shops reminded and annoyed me of the pushiness of today. Silly, I suppose to look at it that way, but it’s how I felt.

Then we went on to our original destination of Cooperstown, which did not disappoint. The green mountain countryside overwhelmed us Michiganders. The small historical town with its taste of something great and slower pace pleased us as if we were stepping back through time to the very place where dreams had originated. That was until we got our bill for souvenirs and lunch. We were pulled back to reality once again, but the lingering wonder of the little baseball town will stay with us for a long time.

The best part of our mini-vacation was having fun as a family and enjoying the company of our 16 yr old son, who loved it as much as we did and genuinely appreciated his birthday present.

Of course, the highlight for me was my picture being taken beside Cal Ripkin Jr.-my favorite baseball player, who is being inducted into the Hall of Fame this month. Okay, okay…so it was only me standing by one of his pictures there. Hey…I’ll take what I can get.

What’s next? A long, relaxing trip up north to the RV by the Lake... in just one week! Yippee!! Mini-vacations out of state are fun, but tiring…our vacation up north will be eating good and being lazy…ah, I can’t wait. Now if we can get our truck's alternator fixed by then, we'll be in good shape. Just so you know that I'm not on cloud 9. :)

Hope all is well with all of you! Have a safe and fun summer!

Thank you sweet Jesus for giving me life, so that I might enjoy life here and life with you, forever & ever. Amen.

Relationships

Hello there,

Today, I thought I would share with you my appreciation for all of the important people in my life. It's amazing when I think of all of the support that I have from God, family and friends.

My relationship with Jesus is top priority, but finding the proper balance between all of the special people in my life while wearing many different hats has made maintaining important relationships challenging. But thankfully by listening to the Holy Spirit, I am more successful making time for meaningful friendships. It isn't easy, but well worth it.

I don’t know what I would do without special people in my life. When I need anything, it seems that I have someone I can go to, of course depending upon the circumstances. It’s interesting when I think about the relationships that I have now and had over the years. These people whom I call my friends know me. They accept me for who I am. No faking. No pressure. Just true friendship from people, who all, I might add, have different personalities. I think it’s true that certain friends have one or two characteristics in common, but all have special qualities that are unique, which make my life so much more enjoyable and interesting.

Thank you to all of you representing these special relationships/friendships, for all of your encouragement and support of my family and me. Sometimes it’s by way of a phone call/e-mail, card or lunch that does the trick. At other times, it’s your prayers that sustain me to stay positive amongst a negative world, and/or maybe it’s your laughter that reminds of the joy in my life, even when I don’t feel like laughing.

Really this is just the tip of the iceberg of the many ways that special people in my life, from my spouse and children to my parents and other family members to my close friends and on-line acquaintances, that have been unexpectedly fulfilling and pleasurable…you know who you are.

So even though it takes work sometimes to maintain relationships, it is important to keep the lines of communication open to ensure health and longevity. Some friendships come & go, but the ones that last, take some work and will be precious for years to come.

Have you encouraged anyone today?

COMING OUT OF THE DARK

Hello, Blogger Friends and Family!

I know it's been a while since I last posted, but I am slowly coming out of darkness.

Most of you know that I have been struggling with depression since my hubbie went out on the road truck driving a couple years ago. Thankfully a few months ago, he found new work just 15 miles from our house! What a blessing. It is hard work since this is a very busy time for the business, but he is doing great. I am proud of him.

It's like coming out of a gloomy cave. The winter months were especially tough, but God is good, and we see the light and it feels good! I have started exercising and eating better. It's amazing how quickly the body suffers from depression as well. I am off my medication now and my body and mind is healing.

It's weird. The medication is good for depression (in most cases) and some of the symptoms, but it is very hard on the body--rough on the liver and kidneys. When I stopped the medication after a few weeks, my body bounced back to life, like some weight has been lifted from my shoulders that I didn't even realize was there. I don't know all of the medical explanations, I just know that I feel lighter. Of course shedding a few pounds in the process helps!

Lisa's tip of the day: Need a few inches off in time for that pool party or day at the beach? Head to your local health place for body wraps. Remember those? Please treat yourself! Plan on doing at least two or three before you see a big difference. Please make sure to drink lots of water and eat balanced diet as you detox to help rid yourself of those nasty little toxins! You'll be so glad you did! Leave the sugar and eat more vegies! (My reminder as well!)

Remember in our times of trial, God will not desert us!

TIME FLIES...

I can't believe 1 1/2 months has gone by since I last blogged. Where does the time go? What have I been up to?

The good news is that I have been working one-on-one with an experienced writer from the writing group I belong to. We are going step-by-step through my novel, which is really helping me. I had been trying to revise it on my own...that did not work. Then, as part of this same group, I was posting it as part of a workshop, but I could not figure out what to keep v. what to revise. It was very overwhelming and I almost gave up. If it had not been for the workshop and the help, I would have walked away from the project. It was just too frustrating...how many times could I bump my head against the wall without seeing any progress?

This reminds me of my daughter and her frustrations with her goals and college. It is tough trying to find our way, is it not? What is important and what isn't?

Sometimes, we need to work hard to obtain important goals, but could we be making it harder because we are not going to God with our questions? Example of questions, we all have asked. (Not in any prioritized order...)

1. What type of work should I be doing?
2. Where should I attend college? What program should I work toward?
3. Should I attend college or trying to find full-time employment straight from high school?
4. What type of person should I marry? What qualities are important to me? Who should I be with for the rest of my life?
5. Should my spouse and I have children? If so, how many?
6. After baby has been born, should both parents work outside the home?
7. Where should I live? House, apartment?
8. Should I attend church?
9. What religion should I be a part of? Where should I attend church? Once a member, should I help? If so, what should I do?
10. Do I need to support my community? If so, how?
11. What other activities/hobbies will fill what little extra time I have?
12. How do I prioritize and balance everything that I want to accomplish?

Just to name a few!

Whew! How do we make the right decisions? That is where the Holy Spirit and our relationship with Jesus really becomes a big factor. Sometimes we bump our heads against imaginery walls on things that maybe we aren't meant to do. How do we know which path to follow? By communicating with our Creator! He is the only one who knows what we should and should not be doing. Easy? No way.

Confused? Yeah I am, too, at times. When I really need guidance, instead of picking up a book, I go to the Lord in prayer, and he has NEVER let me down.

So what are you waiting for?

I am weak

Sometimes, I feel like such a wimp. It's embarrassing. When am I going to learn that God will make sure that I'm taken care of?

I worry. I complain. And more importantly, I don't fully appreciate all of the goodness that God has shown me and my family. Shame on me.

I pray. I cry. And then, I worry some more.

God must be so disappointed. He gives me the tools, which I use on a daily basis, but there are those times. Those times when something goes wrong, or when things don't go my way, I'm wishy-washy.

I pray some more and expect God to miraculous make me feel better. Where's my faith? I know He will take care of me and my family yet...wild thoughts take over, and I am weak. Weak when I could be strong. Why can't I quiet my mind?

Sure, my faith is strong when things go well (my way), but what about in the face of adversity?

Growth. Growing in my faith. That's what I want, but when I want strength the most, sometimes...sometimes, I falter.

My soul whimpers and whithers, and I forget that my personal Lord & Savior is right there with me. When I come to my senses, I lower my head and look down at my feet.

How do I get past insecurities and weakness? By going to the Lord, of course! Our God is a forgiving and loving God! It's never too late to call on the Lord for strength and reassurance! He will not let me down. He never has.

Growing? Yes, I'm growing. But it's a gradual process. I'm working on it, walking hand in hand with my Lord.

GOT SNOW?

Hello there, fellow bloggers (and loved ones :)~

Anyone else out there getting any snow? Michiganders (most of, anyway) are experiencing blizzard conditions, basically getting dumped on. I was just saying yesterday to my fav writing group that things around Grand Rapids don't close for snow...well, me and my big mouth--again. Of course, things around town (including ROADS and HWYS) are closing by the second due to the weather. We have over a foot of snow already with possibly another foot to go! We haven't seen these conditions in many years. YUCK! So glad that I got my chores done yesterday. WHEW!!

Who else out there is stuck in the snow??

Oh yeah, we are also at about 13 degrees with -15 deg windchill. Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr....
I'm so glad that this happened on the weekend, although my dau had to get out in it today, which made me just a tad bit nervous. Surprisingly enough, I've been pretty good about not getting too nervous with her out and about in bad weather, but today...it made me uncomfortable. Now, she's home safe & sound...DOUBLE WHEW!!

I'm just not a snow person. I don't get it. I grew up in Michigan. People have to deal with snow here...it's a given. So why is it that the older I get, the more I hate it? Strange. Although I will say that it is nice to be in the house watching it snow, but how often can one do that? Not often. I'm able to get more writing and housework done, so that's a plus, but man, for those you have to get out in this...I feel bad for them. It's crazy out there.

I think my blog still has a radar...click on it and you'll see what I mean.

ps-My thoughts & prayers go out to those Floridians who have experienced the terrible tornados and storms!

Be safe out there!

THIS IS JUST FOR YOU, PAULIE!

My hubbie checks my blog when he's on the road from his phone, of all things...how is that even possible. I don't get it. Why is it that the older I get, the more dumb I feel?

Anyhoo...Hi, Paulie!!! I love you.


My man & I will celebrate our 22nd wedding anniversay next month! Yippee!

American Idol Again?

Will the craziness ever end?? American Idol is on once again, and I am sitting in front of the television watching it, once again. It just seems to get stranger and stranger. One minute I think it's all staged and the next, I see someone so genuinely surprised that they can't sing that I get emotional. Is that what draws so many people? I don't know.

One minute the controversial judges are rude & obnoxious while at other times, they seem to enjoy and try to help the contestants, but then that Simon opens his mouth and vile spills out. Is that staged or is it real? Is it all an act. You play good judge, I'll play the bad judge? Can't tell for sure. I think I'd be disappointed yet relieved if I knew it was.

We all like to see people reach their goals. I think that's the best part of the show and in order for one to get to his/her dream, another cannot. I think the music industry has a genuine respect for the show and it's appeal as well. Some of the guest singers are well...a little "out there," but for singers like Prince to go on there, I think that says something. (I won't admit that I like that artist to very many people.) He is used to be more wild than he is now. (I think.)

So I prop my feet up and reach for the clicker in anticipation to see those make it one step closer to their dreams and to the others who don't. At least, they are participating in something they love, who can fault a person for that? Oh I'm sure there are quite a few out there that could and do. I just can't believe that some of those people actually believe they can sing...let's face it, there were just too many tears and anger for all of it be fake, right?

My husband said, "Look, honey, I love ya, but if you wanted to try out for American Idol, I'd stop you and say, "you stink, you can do other things, but you can't sing." Which brings me to my latest point, why aren't the genuine people who think they can sing not being told by family members not to go? I just don't understand that. But maybe some family members just find it hard to bring a lifelong dream to a halt. Maybe they don't want to be the ones to tell them...let Simon break it to him/her? I don't know. It just seems like a cruel way to find out.

Thank goodness, I have my husband...you never know, I might've faked my age to try out, but as he says, 'you stink, don't do it.' Another dream crushed. For those of you who don't know me, I'm kidding of course. About trying out that is, not that my singing isn't bad. Oh it is...it is. I don't know if all of the reality shows are worth my time, most aren't, but I make an exception for American Idol, and I'm not alone.

QUESTION: Would you tell someone close that they could not achieve their goal because they set a goal just too far out of reach, and it was VERY obvious that they couldn't?

If you're wondering what I mean, see next week's American Idol from just a few examples.

Enjoy the journey!

ROCKY BALBOA-

Okay, so it's confession time for me again...

ROCKY! ROCKY! ROCKY!

I confessed to being addicted to a few of the reality shows, I'm happy to confess my love for Rocky Balboa. Yeah, I know he's only a character in a fictional movie, somewhere deep down. Way deep. Want a motivational movie to watch, go see, "Rocky Balboa."

I've enjoyed every Rocky movie. Yes, I like Sylvester Stallone as an actor, but it's Rocky whom I love. I heard a couple of years ago that another Rocky was coming, and I've been patiently waiting ever since. I can't express to you how excited I was when I heard the first hint that the movie was coming out this year. I didn't need anyone to tell me that it was going to be a good movie...I just knew it. Okay, so Rocky V wasn't so hot, but I still liked it.

So why is it worth an entry in my blog? Well, I mention missing socks etc, so that's not really too impressive, is it? Well, it's worth mentioning because it is an inspiring story of hope of overcoming great odds to win the good fight (and I don't mean just in the ring.) It's about not quitting when things get tough. I'm trying to think of the great speeches from good ole Rocky, but can't remember exact wording, but I gotta tell ya, when Rocky spoke, it was like he was talking to each and every one of us. One of his comments (paraphrasing of course):
"It's not about how many hits you make; it's about how many hits you can take and still make it." Okay it was something like that. Simple. But man, it hit home. Okay so he said better stuff, I just can't remember it all, but bottom line the message is simple. You want something, nobody's going to get it for you, and no one has the right to tell you that you can't go after your dream. You've got to work hard for what you want to achieve. And what I love about this movie is that Rocky doesn't win the actual fight in the ring, but he won so much more...respect for a job well done and self-respect knowing that he didn't give up on his goal, his dream. That's it, that's what I like the most: RESPECT...today's society seems to have lost respect to foundamental principles, walking away from giving and focusing more on taking. Or by thinking that someone owes us something for nothing. I don't know maybe I'm just getting old...I'm starting to sound like someone even older than I am.

Maybe that's not so bad.

Okay, I'm done...for now.

Merry Christmas!

How's everyone doing? Five more days until Christmas!! The countdown begins!!

Do you have your Christmas shopping done? If you think you have it all done, do you really? How about those stocking stuffers? Okay you have the kids done, right? Hope so. How about your parents, grandparents, boss, colleague, sunday school teacher, pastor, oh and don't forget your spouse, dog? Didn't mean to list spouse by dog...just the way it came out of the ole brain. I don't even own a dog. The list could go on and on. Have I depressed you yet? Every time I go to the store, I think of something else that I need to buy and buy something else that I didn't even have on the list. How is that?

Do you have the Christmas tree up and decorated? Is your house all decked out with decorations? How about those Christmas lights on the house, bushes and anywhere else you can think of? Oh yeah, how about one of those new snow globes for the lawn? (now those are cool...get the one with Winnie-The-Pooh! My fav!) I have one pine tree decorated outside, is that enough? How about the Christmas cards? Buy those Christmas stamps? Have the cards all been sent out?

How about groceries for Christmas dinner? Oh, I see, you're waiting until the craziest weekend of the year to go grocery shopping, like myself. For you bakers out there, are the Christmas cookies baked? How about the fudge? Oh I think I can smell them now. I made about four patches of cookies in hopes that one batch wouldn't be under-baked (is that a word?) or burned. I digress. So, what else is there?

Oh my goodness, how can I forget. Do you have all of your presents WRAPPED? You're good if you have that done. I'll give you a tip...wrap gifts when you buy them, and it is a much better experience. Even when I do this, I'm still wrapping a day before Christmas, why is that? I don't even want to talk about getting the house clean for family & friends. That list is wayyyyy too long to list here.

And isn't it interesting that out of all the presents we buy for those we love and respect, we don't even give to the one who Christmas is all about? I know...Jesus doesn't want any gifts from his children, right? Or does he?

Could he want to see a little more patience from his children as they rush thru the stores? Could he want his children to give just a little bit more to those in need? Could he want just ten darn minutes of our time daily to praise his name, pray and/or spend time doing devotions? Hmmm...I wonder, what else could he want?

But it's hard, I say to myself. I know that God speaks to me as I open up The Word and pray to him, yet during the time of the year when deep down I am the most thankful, for some reason, at times, I feel the furthest away from my heavenly Father. I can't even use the excuse that I'm just too busy. This season has been much more laid back than years past. I find time for other things, but when it comes to spending time with God, I am unfocused. It's embarrassing to admit, but that's the truth. There are times when I feel close to my Lord because I pray every day, but is that for Him or for me? What am I doing for Him?

I'm going to try hard to go to The Word, work on devotions and think about ways to help others. I ask myself to focus my overday routine and my writing projects, why not this, which is much more important? During this holiday time, shouldn't we actually celebrate the true reason for the season and give our Lord and Savior the best Christmas present ever? I think so.

I encourage you, as well as myself, to remember to praise his Holy Name and find ways to reach out to Him and His people during this busy holiday season. May God bless you and yours.

M E R R Y C H R I S T M A S!!

Big 4-0

Ya know, it was tough enough turning 40 last month, but when books and newspaper and magazine articles magically get smaller, that really pushes me over the edge. My husband had been bugging me to get an eye exam because I couldn't read those darn backs of medicine boxes...why or why are those so darn small???

I'd been avoiding the issue for "a while." My hubbie and I were walking the mall (which we don't do much of) last weekend, and we walked past an eye place (what are these places even called?) Anyhoo, I'm trying to steer him the other way--too late. He spotted it. So...we walked in (after his pleading and pulling), and I got my exam...the first since my exam needed for my drivers license, I think one year. (I can't remember, I'm old remember?) I have very good eyesight other than small print. (so I'm far-sighted, right))

So, the optomotrist (sp?) recommended + 1 reading glasses. Now, those take some getting used to...I can use it for close up, but as most of you know to look further with them is well...a little scary.

I thought I'd look studious and wear them at work...all that did was make me dizzy, so I wear them when I'm using my laptop and going over my novel and other misc writing projects and for that fine print everywhere else. The funny thing is I'll watch tv with them on while I have my laptop. So I have learned to adjust them on my nose just right. I look up to see the show and down to write. Am I talented or what? My family still laughs when I have them on...now that isn't very nice. I feel like a librarian when I have them on...why is that? Do I need to get one of those necklaces to attach them to? Notice how well I know the lingo! ha!

Well, the point of this...who the heck knows...it must have some entertainment value somehow. My blogger friends have such inspirational posts of late and what do I have? A post on reading glasses...I best step it up! But as most of you know (those who even care to stop by) I have more than my share of the serious side...hope you find some humor in your day...life is serious enough, right?

Have a great day!

ANOTHER MONTH HAS GONE BY? SAY IT ISN'T SO!

I can't believe that I did it again! Not blogging for an entire month?

I guess I've been focusing on other things...

Just an update...my family and I are doing just fine. I have been working on my novel yet once again with the fine critters at the Notebored. I have a very complicated novel on my hands that I'm trying to work thru...it's tough! It shows some promise so I'm not giving up--yet. I might have to make some major changes to make it work, but I'm trying to work thru it w/o that at this point anyway. My inexperience is glaring.

Although I love summer and all of the sunny days on the beach, I am starting to appreciate fall and winter more than I ever have before. Summertime, my family and I are very active and spend a great deal of time up north at our trailer. But the winter is a slower time for us, and we're able to catch our breath. This is the best writing time for me, and I really love it. I'm looking forward to those cold, snowy days with my computer on my lap...if you know me at all, you know that I HATE snow...I don't like anything about it, so for me to even state such a thing is crazy...but it is true. Of course, I wouldn't hate snow if I didn't have to get out in it every single day, but reality of it, is that I do. But if I have something to look forward to, it sure helps!
Nope, no skiing for me.

So...with all of that being said, I won't have any excuses for not blogging, right??

Thanks to my friends for waking me up and reminding me that I need to remember my blogger friends!! Forgive me!!

Thanks for stopping by and for your constant support!

Best,
-Lisa

ON THE LIGHTER SIDE OF THINGS...

I thought I'd lighten things up a bit and tell ya'll a quick funny.

Running late for work this morning...imagine that on a cold, dark, rainy Monday morning...and on the way out the door, I remembered the giant size coffee I had purchased over the weekend for the office. I mean this baby must weigh five lbs--hey, I'm dutch...it was a good deal. Anyhoo, I then remembered that this is the type of can that needs to be opened with a can opener. NO problem, right? Yeah, right.

So here I am trying to fit this big can of coffee to my little opener, and I try and try to get it to open the whole way. Nope...after several tries, I still cannot open it completely...I'm now just a little mad and looking at the clock reading 7:55 am...I realize that gives me exactly five minutes to get to work on time, which isn't going to happen. I pull on the top and there is still a 2" gap so I try to twist and turn it, but...no go. Well, I gotta tell ya, I almost threw that thing out the window! After staring at it like it had grown horns and was now laughing at me, I put the plastic cover on and set it on the table (as calmly as I could--really I was calm.) ;)

At lunch time, (after spending $30 for wrinkle cream at Walgreen's--now if that ain't enough to depress a girl, ha ha.) I tried once again to open it all the way and lo & behold, after a few tries it came right off. Now, I ask you...why couldn't it have done that this morning?? hmmm, I wonder.

And...how was your morning??