Creative Zen

As all of you know, I am a voracious reader. What some of you may wonder is how I have time to read so much with a full-time job, husband and two small children. I'll tell you a little secret. Audiobooks!

Several months ago, I purchased a Creative Zen mp3 player. I purchased one with 2GB (although they sell the same model with much more memory), and I've never filled it up. I sometimes have 10 books at a time. It also holds a memory card. It comes in pink and black. It has an FM radio and still plays music, of course. With so many choices, it was hard for me to choose.Many libraries offer online book services. With a library card, you can check out, download and transfer books from the comfort and convenience of your computer. I simply checked the library's site for compatible devices. One thing you need is compatibility with the file format, for example is it an MP3 or a WMA? You must also have the bookmarking capability. Unless you enjoy trying to remember where you were and fast-forwarding every time.

I am fortunate enough to listen to books all day at work. I can connect the Zen to an adapter and even listen in the car. Road trips are more interesting. The work day flies by. I can enter into my own zone and go anywhere the book takes me. I'm so much more content because of it. It truly has been a great blessing to me. Proof that God cares about the little stuff.

So if you love to read, but lack the time, check your local library and see if your mp3 player is compatible. If not, buying a new one is worth it's weight in gold. It's the best $80 I've spent in a long time. It also paid for itself after 2 downloads. Purchasing audiobooks is very expensive. Borrowing them from the library is free. Happy "reading"!

Super Bowl Sunday

In two days, we will watch the Cardinals square off with the Steelers. Being a native Midwesterner, I told my husband that I was going to cheer for the Steelers. Plus I think they have good colors. So anyway, he quickly dispelled that myth. He says, Kurt Warner is my boy. Plus he's a Christian. I said, "Ok, then."

So that started me thinking. He is a famous football player, and he is a well-known Christ-follower. I find it quite refreshing that he is seemingly unafraid to live out his faith in a world where many are hostile toward those who have chosen to follow Christ. While I still think the Steelers have better colors, our fearless leader thinks we will cheer for the Cardinals! Fine with me. I know nothing about football anyway.

Sister Friend

Years ago, I learned the term "sister-friend" from an Indian woman I used to work with. I fell in love with it. There is another, "sister-cousin" that is equally dear to me. The terms refer to a friend or a cousin who is more like a sister to you.

I have people in my life that fall into this category. I spoke with one the other day. We've been friends for almost 20 years. While we don't talk all the time, we are there when needed. When I called her the other day, I had many things on my mind. She listened intently, waited patiently and cried with me. She truly is my sister-friend.

I have a tendency to keep a lot inside. I do not trust easily. When I find a good friend that I can truly trust, I treasure them like the precious rubies they are. I've spent much of my life being emotionally constipated. God has helped me not to be that way any more. I love hard and tell people how I feel about them. It is satisfying.

If you have good friends, tell them how much you love them often. The same goes for family. Time is too short. Spend time. Text often. Send cards. Love is the greatest gift of all. (1 Co. 13)

Without Hope

I wasn't planning to write today, but I came across a story that brought me to a stop. It is the saddest, most horrific thing I have seen. Possibly in my life. The story is so sad, my heart breaks for total strangers. The events took place in California. A man and his wife were apparently let go from their jobs after filing a union grievance. As the parents of 5 young children and owners of a home, they felt hopeless and destitute. They apparently planned a murder/suicide as a "final escape" for their family. The story is heartbreaking.

If only they had known God's promises to supply all of their needs. If only someone had realized they were in need of help and reached out to this young family. In Jeremiah 29:11, it says: "For I know the plans I have for you," says the Lord. "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope." NLT (YouVersion)

While I can't understand why parents allow their own despair to cause them to kill their own children, I imagine their hearts must have been so heavy. If only they could have reached out to someone. Was no one willing to help this desperate family? Perhaps even a caring counselor could have helped.

I do hope this will make each one of us pay more attention to others instead of being obsessed with our own problems. We never know what hopelessness will do to someone. Without knowing the entire saga, I can only wonder and speculate... Please join me in praying for the survivors of this tragedy.

And my God will supply all of your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:19 NASB)

Man Repellant

We've all heard of chick-magnets, but how many of you know a man-repellant? You know, the needy girl who changes all of her interests to keep a man? The one who oozes low self-esteem? The girl who's low on intelligible conversation and high on cleavage?

Sure, all of these tactics work in the short-term, but what about husband material? During February I plan to do some exploration. What makes men tick? Why are women having such a hard time finding a husband? When you get him, can you keep him? Are you running off all of the good ones?

Stay tuned for life and love tips. More to come.

Image courtesy of Criss

What a Man...

My mind is on a strong, sexy man. A man who loves God and his family. A man who proves this love each day. A man whose smile lights up my world. A man who laughs at the stupidest things and makes me laugh, too. A man who I never want to live without. A man who makes me know that God is real because he answered my prayers when he sent him. A man who admits his faults and tries hard to make things right. A man who will teach our son to fear God and respect his future wife. A man who makes me feel blessed. A man who puts up with me and my crazy emotions. A man who deserves an award. A man so good, I don't have time to care what the so-called sexiest man alive is doing. Why? I married the real thing.

Sometimes I forget to let him know. I'm too focused on his perceived shortcomings. I'm working on it. I want to be that Proverbs 31 woman for him. That "good thing". His helper. The world is cold and hard. I want to be his soft place to fall. If God has blessed you with a good man or even one who could use a little work, thank him today and lift your man up in prayer.

More about finding a good man in February...

Photo Courtesy of mozzercork via Flickr Creative Commons

Amazing

On New Year's Day, our pastor's wife, daughter and her friend were hit head on by a drunk driver. Miraculously, they all walked away unharmed. They even prayed at the scene. The accident was so severe that the other car caught on fire. Unbelievable.

But their faith, though tested, remains steadfast. The ironic thing is that our pastor's first wife was killed by a drunk driver when she was 7 months pregnant. This has obviously been a trying time for them. Their are many questions they must have asked God.

For the past couple of weeks, I have watched them in admiration. They have displayed grace and courage. They have shown compassion toward the man who could have easily ended it all with his carelessness. Their actions speak so loudly, the whole world can hear.

If you've ever wondered if God is real, click the link and watch this footage. It will change you.

Welcome to America, Now Speak English!

America is arguably the most diverse country in the world. We are possibly also the biggest bullies!

Driving to work, I saw this message on a truck's bumper sticker:


I was disheartened. Many people of all different ethnicities emigrate here each year. Why do we get to tell them which language to use?

When I visited a foreign country several years ago, I knew what it meant to be a stranger in a strange land. I spoke a different language than the natives. Although I also spoke Spanish, I felt more comfortable speaking English. While many of them spoke English, they probably also preferred Spanish as the first choice.

While the sticker may have been meant in "good" fun, I find it to be unnecessary. If I put myself in the shoes of an immigrant or foreign visitor, it's pretty easy to see that the message could be hurtful to those who are different. A lack of tolerance often turns to hate. Remember the Golden Rule? Do to others what you'd have them do to you. (Matt. 7:12) If you don't have anything good to say, say nothing at all.

Misplaced Faith

Soon we will swear in the 44th president of the United States. For many, this is a very exciting time. Filled with hope and promise of a new tomorrow. For others, it is a sign that the end of the world is near. No matter how you feel about President Elect Obama, he is only a man, the same as the previous 43. He can only do what the Master allows. He cannot increase your bank balance or insure your retirement on his own.

Each of us should reevaluate who we place our faith in. If Barack Obama is our savior, there is trouble on the horizon. Since God is the only One who promised to supply all of my needs (Phil. 4:19), He is the only one that I can count on 100% of the time.

With that said, join me in continuing to pray for our elected leaders. Pray for their marriages and their integrity. Pray for their sanity and their children. Ask God to ensure their safety and well-being. They have a big responsibility. They wear many hats. The Bible admonishes us to respect and honor elected officials. There are no clauses for party affiliations. But respecting them does not mean worshiping them or expecting them to repair all that ails our economy. Change will come as God allows it. Whew! I am glad to know that.

The Good Girl Wins!

As you know, The Biggest Loser is one of my favorite shows. It just started back, and I am thrilled. The winner of last season was Michelle. I was happy and relieved to see her win. All throughout there was nastiness disguised as "game play". I did not want those who played in such a vindictive way to be rewarded for their cunning. She treated her competition with respect and played the game with honor. At the end, the nice girl won the money and an amazing new body. I guess the good guy doesn't really finish last.

I Know What Sausage Links Feel Like

The other day I put on one of my favorite pairs of jeans. Usually when they get washed, it takes a few hours for them to loosen up and fit perfectly again. However, after wearing them all day, they still felt like I may need to be surgically removed from them. The button hole seemed to have magically moved too far away from the button. The zipper kept "sticking". The thigh portion shrunk! I was appalled. Especially when I realized the problem isn't the jeans.

Every year I look forward to the holidays so that I can eat like food is going out of style. However, I'm not as young as I once was, and my metabolism is not my friend. I tend to exercise in spurts. I love food, so I eat what I want. While I don't eat large portions usually, I never met a milkshake I didn't like. I'm all about moderation, and I think diet is a bad word. But... I think the time has come for me to exercise more regularly. Perhaps Wii Sports doesn't really count. Maybe I should eat oatmeal instead of donuts or muffins for breakfast.

While this all sounds good in theory, I don't know if I will really change. While I like exercise, I don't like getting up early. I wake before 5:30 for work as it is. What's a girl to do?

I guess I am forced to regard my body as the temple that it is. (I Cor 3:16)
It is a gift from God, no matter how big or small. Even if I am a little fluffier than I'd like to be, I still love me. I am paying more attention to my fruit and veggie intake. I think I'll play more Wii Sports. Someday maybe we'll even find Wii Fit. In gratitude and obedience to God, I will exhibit more self-control in caring for my body. Pray hard girls. Cheesecake calls to me!

Zipper Photo courtesy of Insashi via Flickr Creative Commons

Imparting Mercy

Everyone needs mercy. I know I do. The concepts of grace and mercy instead of justice, allow me to rest peacefully at night. One woman has made it her personal mission to impart mercy to others. She is not content to receive without paying it forward. Her name is Nancy Alcorn, and she is the face of Mercy Ministries, USA. The organization teaches skills to deal with life and provides solace.

Mercy Ministries is committed to providing a safe place for teens and young women. It is a resource for depression, addictions, eating disorders and unexpected pregnancies to name a few. This organization is a part of changing the lives of women in six countries and several states in the US. By providing services free of charge, its residents are not limited by a lack of financial means or social status. To learn more about this inspiring ministry, just click the link above.

This "God" Thing is Getting Old

I'm mad. I have no control over my life, and neither do you have any over yours. Our Master puppeteer has all of the control. And while I agree, He has the sole right, being the Creator and all... I still get mad!

Since miscarrying a couple of months ago, I am eager to have another baby. Everyone says, "in God's time." What about my time? At times I am consumed with what I want. Yeah, I know, those who are better Christians than I never experience these irrational thoughts.

Have you ever thought of how extreme the concept of faith in an unseen being is? It's mind-blowing! I even feel guilty for resenting God's power. Perhaps I should. After all, I am very blessed. But for some reason, being blessed does not prevent me from these thoughts from time to time. I get scared sometimes, even though God did not give me that spirit.

The funny thing is that at the end of the day, I return to sanity. I find myself thankful for what I have. I try not to focus on the future. I try to live each day as though I won't have any more and bask in His love. But I do have some wild thoughts before getting there. And sometimes the journey takes longer than I'd like to admit.

Lingerie or Flannel Pajamas?

Several weeks ago, I was shopping with our children. In the process, I found a designer pajama set for a great price. It is a beautiful, silky cranberry. I was so excited! I know, it's sad how little it takes to make me happy. I had two things in mind: these will be sexy and comfortable! How often does that happen? I also figured I could wear them on Christmas morning and look presentable for pictures. I showed them to hubby when I got home, and he was definitely happy. One down. When I tried them on Christmas morning, I felt naked! I was freezing! Great. While they are comfortable, they are not warm.

So, I've decided they are more suited as lingerie. I am not really a lingerie kind of girl, usually. While it does make me feel sexy sometimes, it is cold and sometimes uncomfortable. So hubby and I had a very spirited debate the other day about lingerie as a gift. I think that's a gift for him, not me. While I have quite a collection, courtesy of my bridal shower, it doesn't get much use in our house. Mostly because we're often in a race before the children bust in on us. Partially because it just isn't necessary. All we need is opportunity!

My question is, what do you prefer: lingerie or comfie (not raggedy) jammies? Do you like receiving it as a present? You know, "Happy Mother's Day! I got you this from Fredricks of Hollywood!" Weigh in...

We Sleep in Separate Beds

While perusing the internet, I stumbled onto a blog entry about sleeping arrangements for couples. So it got me thinking, of course. Should couples have separate beds? Does it affect the intimacy in the marriage?

I've always thought that, as a rule, we should sleep in the same bed. Although, some nights when my husband is snoring, I think of ways to smother him in hopes of getting just 2 hours of uninterrupted sleep. While cuddling is nice, sometimes space is great. Especially if you're sick or pregnant or extremely tired.

I would love to hear from you!

One Sensuous Woman

Here's an interesting view on married sexuality by my girl Shula: Sensuous Wife Blog

The story told here speaks of the power of God to heal us from horrible circumstances and free us to enjoy one of life's great pleasures.

Welcome 2009

New years are always full of high hopes. Plans to lose weight, save money, go back to school... You get the picture. At the end of the year, how many of us look back with regrets at how many resolutions are left unfulfilled? This year, I did not make resolutions. I was too lazy to do so! Plus, I thought, "what's the point?"

My plan is based on a scripture I read recently.
2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NLT) says this:
¹⁶ All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong andteaches us to do what is right.
¹⁷ God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.
(courtesy of www.bible.com )

I want to use this year seeking God's will for my life, and I will use
scripture to guide me. My goal is 100% focus, because God won't accept less. As we begin a new year together, pray for me, and I will also pray for each of you. We are all here with a unique purpose, as Pastor Rick Warren wrote in his best seller The Purpose Driven Life. If I don't fulfill my purpose, there is no one else on earth uniquely created to do so. That's quite a privilege and responsibility.