words

There's a verse in the Bible that says:

My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry... (James 1:19)


If only I had followed that advice yesterday. We had a big get-together at my house and my good friend walked into the kitchen. She was wearing this beautiful lime-green jacket and I said, "Hey, you match the salad."

(You match the salad? What was I thinking? Why not, hey--cute jacket!)

Must I say everything that pops into my head -- I think NOT!

cinderella

A kind blogger let me know about Steven Curtis Chapman's new "Cinderella" song -- you've got to check it out!




http://www.stevencurtischapman.com/thismoment.htm

beautiful green eyes

Well, Kinzy had another eye exam with the Cornea Specialist today. With this chronic virus she has an exam about once a month, sometimes more. When we were checking in at the front desk, a patient was walking out and called back to the receptionist, "See ya next year!"

McKenzie whispered, "Mom, wouldn't that be great to say...see ya next year!" As a Mom I have to admit I got a little choked up. Of course I hope and long for the day those beautiful green eyes don't have to get yellow drops and a bright light put in them -- but also as a Mom I'm so grateful.

I'm grateful Dave has a job that gives us good health insurance. I'm grateful we live in this country at this time, where she gets the care she needs from a specialist. I'm grateful that we belong to a loving, caring church where Pastor Randy will hug her and pray for her healing whenever he sees her...I am grateful.

letting go of stuff

See that cute little guy looking at the camera? He has been so helpful in teaching me how to let go of stuff! He's not so little now though -- almost bigger than T.Michael. It seems that what I once thought of as valuable, you know, that favorite book, the beautiful African basket, a new Christmas present is really nothing more than a chew-toy. Oreo has really helped me with this year's goal to simplify!

walking with God

I had a dream the other night...it was about walking with God. I loved it because it reminded me of other dreams I used to have when I was younger, dreams in which I would learn things from and about God.

In this dream I was standing with God looking up at Multnomah Falls when He asked me if I wanted to go with Him to the top of the mountain. Then He stepped ahead on the trail and reached back toward me with His hand outstretched in invitation for mine.

Instantly (as can only happen in dreams) several scenarios flashed through my mind...

In one scenario I got too excited, ran ahead, and tired out quickly.

In another I found the traversing back and forth up the mountain arduous, tedious, and even a little (dare I admit it?)boring. Every time I would look up to see how far we had left to hike I would get overwhelmed and want to quit.

In another, most-horrible scenario, I got so excited to get to the top I charged straight up the mountain only to lose my footing and fall tumbling down with all kinds of disastrous results.

Then suddenly (as can only happen in a dream) I was back at the base of the mountain again...I stopped, looked at God's outstretched hand, and realized I needed to just take His hand. He was not going to thrill or entertain me, but there He was still offering to take me along with Him. To allow me to share the adventure with Him. To lead me. To guide me along the best path...to spend time with me.

servanthood

...have you every noticed how it's easy to be a servant until you're treated like one? I've heard it said there is a difference between serving and being a "doormat" (and I agree) but sometimes the line between the two gets a little fuzzy. But no matter your definition of serving, there is One who leads us by example -- and He is ever faithful...and He was treated shamefully.

Happy New Year!

Here's a fun way to start the new year: I invite you to join me this year in reading this MOST-interesting book (The Shack, by William P. Young) and discussing it with me as soon as you can! It's a good one, trust me!