Wednesday, June 30, 2010

Being Stalked

I'm definitely in a "being stalked" season. Conversations are happening and I am being introduced to new materials from different sources that all support and substantiate each other.

It's very, very exciting.... but it also freaks me out a bit. While I'm excited to listen and learn, and know that it's all lining up too perfectly and randomly for it to be of my own doing, I pause.

As I hear, and see and read and experience these things that challenge me to grow, I reach for the familiar. I wish I could say I did not, and instead I ran to Him and His plan with open arms.

I am walking in a general forward direction. Sometimes I feel I've made progress when my feet stand firmly where they are - instead of running back to hide.

I do not want to remain where I am for the remainder of my life... so I must move. When He calls my name, I should turn in His direction and walk to where He has called. When He invites me to dance, I should listen for His music, take His hand and dance....

I may walk on trembling legs, but I trust that He will hold me.

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

People Watching

It was an interesting two days in the water park. Certainly it was fun with family and friends, and the weather was beautiful, but it was the people watching that was most interesting.

Saturday there were over 20,000 people in the park. It was crowded and there was much line waiting. There were people there of all shapes and sizes, colors and walks of life. We also saw a wide variety of tattoos - and spending the weekend using a visual language as well as a verbal one - they readily caught my eye.

But, the people I enjoyed watching the most was my children. My boy-child, over and over again, walked through his fear to find the "awesome!!" - ness in the rides. My daughter and her friend found the courage to ride the roller coasters.

And all three of them worked together, compromised to help each other meet their personal goals for the weekend, and be respectful and responsible.

It was "AWESOME!!"

Thank you God!

Monday, June 28, 2010

Taking a day

Needing a day to transition back into reality.

I will say quickly that I am so very proud of my children and the way they behaved at the park!

I am truly blessed to be their mom!

Sunday, June 27, 2010

Water Park Fun

If you're getting this message, we've been having too much fun on our water park trip!

Back soon with a few more family memories and probably some sun!

God be with us on our journey!

Saturday, June 26, 2010

Two Yellows and a Green

Friday evening was spent in a (very hot) gym, watching a bunch of young karate students show what they've learned the past few months, and celebrate the changing of belt-seasons in their lives. Two of them happened to be my own.

I couldn't be more proud of these two kids, and thank God almost daily that he has given them into my care.

A boy and a girl - different as night and day - but sharing some common human experiences, that always bring me back to the core of myself.

So, I congratulate my new yellow belt and my new green belt, and am very grateful to be a part of what we've now been called - a "Two yellows and a green" (belt) family.

Friday, June 25, 2010

Celebrating the Seasons

It was "Stripe Test" day in my Martial Arts class. I had gone to the morning class, tested, and received my yellow belt. I also attended the evening class, where, after the stripes were awarded, the instructor asked us to "take a knee" before he handed out the belts.

He began to tell a story about "seasons". At the word, I switched into "Yes-God-I'm-listening" mode. That's not to say that I kicked back and took it all in. No, more often, it's like a mini wrestling match inside of me.

One part wants to run - far, far away. "La, la, la.... I can't HEAR you!"

Another focuses in on the concepts being presented and reminds the part that wants to run that this IS applicable. "We've BEEN through Seasons.... It's GOOD, remember?"

Yet another notices whats going on with my body itself. "oh! Heart paused at that word. Now it's racing. Breathe! don't forget to breathe! Yeah, that lump in your throat.... pretty sure it's gonna be there for a bit...."

And the whole while, there is the undercurrent of the Gentle Voice Within saying "Listen. Pay attention. This is important. Listen. Pay attention. This is important. Listen...."

And somehow, through all of that, the message sticks.

"We all experience seasons." I think back through a few of my own: My season of loss, where my dear friend Karen and my father died within months of each other. Not long after was the loss of my marriage and three beloved dogs.

Yet, in that season, I learned much. From Karen and my dad, I learned that "Love never ends". I also felt the presence of God in a way that I had never experienced before. I watched Him bring beauty from ashes as I walked through the divorce process. Faithfully, He showed up when I needed Him most - physically, emotionally, spiritually, financially....

I think back the the birth of my children, and the exhausting season of joy that accompanied them. They've grown and changed and continue to do so.

I felt the ache of conviction when the instructor suggested that perhaps, from time to time, we focus on getting OUT of a current season, rather than being present within it. "I can't wait til they're out of diapers." "I can't wait til school is done." "If I can just get through these next few days, weeks or years, then....." Yeah. Been there.

It's a lesson He's been working on with me. So, Yes, Lord... I hear you. Little by little, I make steps toward your plans for me in that regard.

But, what really stood out for me was when he challenged us to celebrate them and their passing. Live the moments fully while we're in the midst of them. Yet, as their time closes, we step fully into the next season - with joy and purpose.

My season as a white belt has ended, and I have stepped into yellow.

How perfectly timed as He changes some other areas of my life. May I savor the moments and cherish the days. But more importantly, may I follow where He leads, and celebrate the changing of the seasons He brings.

Thursday, June 24, 2010

Reunions

Well, I had the joy of hugging my kids again, since they have returned home to me safe and sound. The have tales to tell and adventures from the sun!

They are taller and tanner - but still need to be reminded not to pick on the other.

But, of course the transition back to home makes for late bedtimes, and pressing of some limits.

We've gotten settled for the night and the adventure begins again when the sun rises!

Thank You, God for my family.... for trusting these two into my care.

I am blessed beyond my wildest imaginings!

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Leaving the Plateau

When talking about "the plateau" recently, I got some interesting comments. I had said that I was ready to be done with it - actually, more specifically, that I wanted to "kick it out of my life - literally" (which, unbeknownst to me was the focus of my MMA class that day! Thanks, God!).

One said that the plateau was the place to run and get speed built up before the next uphill climb. Or, perhaps it's the resting point on the way down the mountain, before the valley... OR, if you live around here, it's a section of Tennessee that begins about 90 minutes east of here. But, that's not what I meant.

I meant the weight-loss plateau. So I've had to shake the exercise routine up a little.... which I've enjoyed, actually.

I've got plans to shake it up again when I go to camp, and again when we visit family in New England.

I know that this will pass, so long as I persevere. Actually, it will pass if I don't persevere, but not in the direction I've got my eyes set.

Walking with God is similar for me. I love the mountain-top! The view and the perspective is fabulous! The valley is tolerable, since I've walked there before. It's often there when I feel Him closest to me, or find someone who has walked that valley before and reminds me of it's purpose. But the plateau.... That's often where I wander off in search of fireflies.

I trust that He will call me back, and I pray for Him to show me a point on the horizon that sets our course.

From that perspective, little by little, step by step, I walk.

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

".... Glad Songs of Salvation...."

I find myself today having switched the songs that have been imprinted in my head. I'm still in a Mosaic motif, but I've switched from Repentance to Glad Songs of Salvation.

Which, quite honestly, is very upbeat! I love it. I love the bits of Hebrew that are thrown in as well... "Barukh atah El Roi, Hallelujah!" is the verse that wants to sing out the most. "Blessed are You, the God who sees" (Hallelujah!)

Ah yes.... "... You are the God who sees and knows...."

You are, and I am ever grateful!! You see more than I will ever see, and You know more than I will ever know.

Hallelujah!

Monday, June 21, 2010

Teachings from the Yard...

I spent some time in the yard this past weekend, and I learned a few things.

I learned that with some perseverance and a few prayers, the weed eater will start.

I learned that no matter how canine my dog appears, he's really a big scaredy-cat when it comes to the weed eater.

I learned that I love the wind - at least as much as I love the rain! Both remind me of how much God loves me, and is an active part of my life.

I learned that details matter... a lot!

And, I was reminded.... I love tomatoes fresh from the vine.

Thank You God for some time in the yard. I do enjoy spending the time with You like that!

Sunday, June 20, 2010

On Father's Day

It's Father's Day again.

I sent my kids with cards in their backpacks, and I will call the other dad's I know.

I will say extra prayers for those who have lost father's this past year. As I write this, I remember the year my father died. It had been a hard year, and that just added to it.

But, time heals all wounds - to some degree or another. And through the years, I have found myself remembering my father in different ways.

I remember him as I pull out my hammer, saw, screw driver, wrench - or any other tool he taught me to use. I remember him encouraging me to fix the lamps and replace the light switches. He taught me not to fear the roof - but to respect it none-the-less.

He encouraged me to write.... and read and experience all that life has to offer.

I think of him often, as I navigate this life....

Happy Father's Day!!

Saturday, June 19, 2010

The Plans He Has For Me

Jeremiah 29:11 may be one of my favorite verses in the bible. It reminds me that when all else fails, when I am feeling beaten down and wandering, that He has plans for me.

Long before the foundations of the earth were laid, He had plans for me. Good plans!

I think back and wonder if I have ever asked Him to clearly show me His plans for me. Perhaps I have.... in bits and pieces. "What is Your plan for me ...in this...?" Perhaps He has been showing me over and over again, and I have been looking in other directions, so around the mountain again I go. Perhaps I have difficulty believing the magnitude of these gifts. Perhaps some of the gifts are not wrapped in packages that I recognize as such. Perhaps I think, "He couldn't possibly want ME to do that... ME? "

Some bits, I've heard clearly. In some areas of my life, I have no doubt of His plans for me. Through my tears and my fears, I have walked - willingly or reluctantly - never sure what lay on the other side of the call to action, but sure I needed to go. Other times, when I've asked for clarity or prayed specifically about something, it feels as if He is saying "FINALLY, you ask - it's what I've wanted for you all along..."

I wonder sometimes how big the puzzle of my life is, and if I have all the pieces. Are there more that I still have to find? Will He give them to me if I ask? I wonder what lies down the paths I walk.

The terrains differ from season to season. At times it seems like the journey is all uphill. Sometimes the fields are lush with rolling hills. Sometime we sit and rest.

It's rare that I feel alone these days, but I wonder how many times I wander off, chasing this or that. I am sure there are times that I've resembled a toddler on a summer night, lost in the wonder of a field of fireflies. But, before long, He calls me back to the path we were walking - together, He and I.

Many times, it is not in the front of my mind. You have called me to mother, and to heal. You have given me a listening ear, a willing heart and a centering spirit. Gratitude and organization come easy to me. Words are my friend. These things I know. When I am still enough to appreciate these gifts, I know. But life can be a field of fireflies, and I, a toddler.

So, He calls me back. Back to learn. Back to walk toward and in the plans He has for me.

Tonight these questions were put before me again. As I heard him speak, and I read the paper I held in my hands, there was that stirring deep within. "Are you listening? Pay attention! This is important!!" That still, small voice inside clearly whispers.

So, driving home, I asked.... aloud...."Help me to know Your plans for me. Guide me. Lead me. Keep me on the path that is Your plan for me...."

I am beginning to believe that it is no co-incidence that this is being asked of me while I have some time for reflection. May I use it wisely!


Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.

Friday, June 18, 2010

The Wind and the Rain and the Dirt

The day started hot and humid. Even at 7am, the temperatures neared 80 degrees. I leashed the dog and we headed out. One lap for him, two more for me. As we walked, I noticed the clear blue sky overhead - and the roll of thunder in the distance.

During the time I was showering, the sky was transformed, and enroute to my martial arts class, it POURED. It rained the duration of my class. Periodically, I looked out, thinking how refreshing the cool rain would feel on my hot, sweaty face. By the time I returned home, the sky was blue again, and the rain had stopped.

I had been wanting to experience the rain on my face - to dance before God in the cool warmth of a summer rain. Apparently, I'd have to wait a little longer.

After lunch, I headed out to "Tend the Earth". The flowerbed at the mailbox was overgrown with grass, as was a part of the vegetable garden. I headed out and sat by the mailbox. Gentle melodies and prayers formed together in my head as I pulled the slender blades of grass from between the zinnias.

The temperature had risen again, following the storm, and the humidity was climbing again as well. Sweat dripped from my brow as I pulled and sang.

Heading to the vegetable garden, I kicked off my flip flops. The soil was warm and giving beneath my feet. I continued to sit, pray and sing as I pulled the grass from between the tomatoes and the herbs. The two yellow pear tomatoes that had ripened made it into my mouth.

Before long, the wind had picked up, blowing the hair out of my face. I took my sunglasses off as the sky darkened again. I heard the gentle rolls of thunder beginning again in the distance. "YES!" Before long, I hoped to have my opportunity.

The wind continued to blow, and I continued to weed and sing and pray - this time with grateful anticipation.

Finally, the first drop fell. I continued to weed until it was a steady shower. Then, I stood, and spun around like a little girl.

"Thank You, God for the rain on my face...."

"Wanna Dance....?"

Thursday, June 17, 2010

The Week of Mixed Emotions


Malachi 2:16 “For I hate divorce!” says the Lord, the God of Israel. “To divorce your wife is to overwhelm her with cruelty,” says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies. “So guard your heart; do not be unfaithful to your wife.” NLT


My kids have headed out with their dad. They begin their first week of summer vacation with him, and I begin a week of mixed emotions.

On one hand, I am very grateful that he is as involved with his children as he is, and I trust that he will care for them well.

I am also grateful for some "down" time. For a week, I have only one to get ready in the morning, one lunch to pack. I have a short respite from the continuous "Mom! Mom! Mom!" 's that come forth from a pair of 8 year olds. On the flip side, I only have one to get get ready in the morning and one lunch to pack. Before long I will miss the "Mom! Mom! Mom!" 's and the requests for ONE MORE bedtime kiss.

So, while they are gone, I'll try to fit in some of the things that are more difficult to do while they are in my charge. I'll also understand a little deeper in my heart why God hates divorce.

Wednesday, June 16, 2010

The Lowest Octave

We'd returned from my MMA class, and taken out the recycling. I sat in my favorite chair as my children chattered over Club Penguin on the computer. It's now in the forefront of my mind that they leave for their trip to Florida with their dad in just a short while.

That hollow feeling in the pit of my stomach, I often misinterpret for hunger. But today, I chose activity. As I put my laundry in my closet, I reached for my flute. It's been a while since I've picked it up, but it seemed like the thing to do.

I switched from the clarinet to the flute in high school (for purely practical reasons! The flute players could wear gloves during the cold New England football season!). Yet, it has been what I've reached for more often than not.

I sat at the edge of my bed, and began playing. I had no set intention at that point, until I heard a melody - "Here I am to worship. Here I am to bow down. Here I am to say that You're my God". From there, I became a little more directed. Typically, when I pick up the flute, I just let it play. Most often in the lowest octave.

It's my favorite "zone" to play in. Deep, mellow tones that resonate with the feeling in my gut.

Of course, I come back to the running melodies of a tune I played with the chorus in high school - an octave lower than I did then - it's one of my favorite things to let run off my fingers.

And then I came full circle - back to where I started.

"Here I am to worship. Here I am to bow down. Here I am to say that You're my God...."

Tuesday, June 15, 2010

Ramblings

God is sure funny sometimes. The way things work out and flow together... even when they are seemingly unrelated.

One little prayer and a whole string of responses. Every day, a little bit. Every day, a moment of knowing God really, truly is active in my life... and in the lives of those around me (whether they know it or not!)

He stalks and He loves. He teaches and He forgives. He touches hearts and souls and minds. He heals - physically, emotionally, mentally. He brings clarity to the obscure and confusion to what seems to be the most obvious.

Above all, He draws me to Himself..... "Wanna dance...?"

Monday, June 14, 2010

The Shepherd and His Sheep

Sunday was an opportunity for me to depend on God. I have not interpreted (in American Sign Language) a full sermon in a long, long time. I also sometimes struggle with the interactive nature of the Education Hour (from an interpreting standpoint). But God showed up in a very real way.

He led my hands, and we endured. It wasn't perfect, but it wasn't as rusty as it has been in the recent past, either. So, for that I am thankful!

The man preaching talked about John Chapter 10: About the sheep and the Shepherd, the characteristics of the sheep and of the Shepherd, and of their interactions with each other.

When I got home, I finally had time to sort through some things that were given to me. On one of the pieces of paper were a list of scriptures, all pertaining to tending the flock. Ah, the sheep and Shepherd lesson continues. I don't know exactly what I will learn in all of this, but....

I recognize my Shepherds voice in this... and I will follow.

Sunday, June 13, 2010

The Journey and Not the Destination

I was driving home after a long day of work. Stopped at a red light, I noticed the church sign. I read aloud "life is a journey and not a destination". I considered that for a while, grateful for my journal, but also realizing that today I had been focused on getting through the day, rather than fully embracing the journey.

I was ready to be home. In my bed.

Just before the light turned green, I glanced at the sign again. It was then that I realized I had read it incorrectly. It didn't say that LIFE is a journey.... it said "FAITH is a journey...."

Oh. Yeah. That too.

And, that is encouraging to me. Striving for progress and not perfection allows me to (to quote my friends, Mosaic) "fall on grace and not my ability". It also helps to remind me of the process of growing in my faith.

Each step I take - on faith - enriches my journey. Each step I take, and each moment I pause, wait and listen, is my journey of faith.

Faith is not where I'm going.... it's the path on which I walk.

Saturday, June 12, 2010

The Next Right Thing

There are times in life when one must focus directly on the next right thing to do. Friday at work was one of those days for me.

It was busy, there were multiple things all competing for my attention. Part of the task at hand was figuring out what was the next right thing to do. Trying to complete them in order of priority certainly helps me.

Life can be like that at home too. Whether it is home projects or weeding through the schedule.

There have been times when I wasn't sure I'd be able to complete the task at hand, but by breaking it down into smaller bits and focusing on the next piece in front of me, even the most daunting tasks have been accomplished.

Many times, when I'm there, I ask: "What would You have me do next....?"

Just works better that way!

Friday, June 11, 2010

Watching God at Work

I just love watching God at work. He's got His hand in many pots that I'm watching.... my own included!

I see people's lives changed. Hearts softening. Walls coming down.

I see rebuilding of things that have been destroyed. I see people depending on Him to direct the next step.

I see attitudes changing. Hearts opening. Humility growing.

I see lights being shown before many sets of feet, saying "step HERE!"

I see prayers being answered - some before the words are spoken, others seem to have taken forever - in His perfect timing, of course.

I see new adventures and discoveries.

I am so grateful for these eyes that see Him at work..... everywhere!

Thursday, June 10, 2010

Things I don't need...

I think perhaps when the serpent tempted Eve with the apple, it was an iPod Touch!

It was (past) time to update my business computer. I decided to go back to Mac. My first computer was a Mac, and I've loved every Mac I have owned. So, ordered one. With it, came a "free" (after rebate), iPod Touch.

Oh. My. Gosh!! It's about the coolest thing ever. Cooler than that, though is what I realized.

When I got it, I updated my Facebook status - remotely - "Linda can't believe she resisted so long". One reply I got reminded me that "Resistance drains energy - Acceptance saves it - Cheerfulness sustains it". I argued that I was *actively* resisting... I just didn't think I needed it. (But now realize how WONDERFUL it is.)

And then God whispered in my ear: ".... and about how many other things do you feel the same...?" (DOH!)

My step lightened, and I began to think of some of the things I don't really think I need - and probably, don't *NEED*... but, God has available for me if I am willing to receive. (I'm not talking "stuff" here....)

whoa. Makes a girl think.

For a moment, I saw myself running wide-armed saying... "Bring it!"

And, I wonder what makes me slow my pace and eventually say "uhm... no thanks. I don't need that."

I'm sure that's part of the lesson plan....

"Bring it! God.... Bring it!"

Wednesday, June 9, 2010

Song Stalking Continues

I continue to be Stalked by God through the song, Repentance by Mosaic. I heard it first less than a week ago, and bits and pieces play through my head throughout the day. It plays on repeat in my car, and on my computer.

Today I found myself having the courage to actually sing through it entirely. No big deal, perhaps, except.... When you start a song/prayer with the words "Humble me", when talking to God, expect to be humbled. When you invite Him to "expose the depths of my heart", prepare to find things deep within that perhaps you didn't know was there - or didn't want to remember.

From my perspective, He and I have done a pretty good job of cleaning out the cobwebs and shining lights in dark corners of my life. But, then again, He and I have had differing perspectives before. I can only imagine what is coming with a song about "repentance". I will have to wait and see. But til then, I sing and walk forward.

God is good, and bringing many good things my way. Of this I am certain. The packaging of such gifts remains a mystery.


You can hear a preview here,if you'd like.

Tuesday, June 8, 2010

A Moment to Rest

After a moment of work and a moment of class and another moment of work, I am taking a moment to rest.

Hope you all have a blessed day!

Monday, June 7, 2010

Progress Toward Skinny Jeans

I noticed while interpreting Sunday morning that I was pulling up my jeans. "Hmmmm....", I thought. I was in my "fat" jeans.

For kicks, when I got home, I decided to try on my "regular" jeans. To my surprise, I could get into them. Honestly, it's been way too long since they fit. They're still a little snug, but definitely better than a month ago. Another few weeks, and my wardrobe options should increase significantly. :)

It's amazing how motivating that can be.... that and a lecture on making wise choices.

To progress toward "skinny", and proof that You can overcome even this thorn in my side!

Sunday, June 6, 2010

Time to Myself

One of the things I love about being in the garden is that it's quiet. It's typically just me and God - and whatever song may be running in my head. (Today it was the chorus of "Repentance" - "You have not dealt according to my sin..... You have dealt according to Your mercy")

I like having time to myself. Rather, I NEEED having time to myself. Yet, soon, I will have more than I care for, so I try to balance. Some time for me amidst the summer schedule of kid / family adventures, and time with the kids while they are in my presence. Not always easy and doesn't always happen at the best moments, but I try.

Wonder where Sunday's moment will find me...

Saturday, June 5, 2010

Repentance.... Mosaic Style

Friday night I was able to attend a "Dress Rehearsal" for Mosaic. This diverse group of friends have joined to form a musical group that supports each others individual musical styles, but WOW! Together, they are awesome!

As I sat in this very casual environment, with a child on my lap and a child beside me, I just listened.

Anyone who knows me, knows that music is a very powerful way that God speaks to me. Melodies, rhythms, lyrics... And, as I sat there, there was a song that hit me.

It's title, Repentence.

As they sang each line, it touched me deeper and deeper. It's one of those songs that will find itself on "repeat" for a long while. We'll see how long it takes me to really sing along.

For me, song and prayer are very similar... especially such songs as this that get sung from the depths of my heart.

This song is an open invitation for God to humble me, and shine His light "where sin lies in the dark". It is also a song of gratitude.

I feel like a toddler, wanting to run out and experience all that is before him, yet clinging tightly with one arm to his mother's leg. I'm not sure I'm ready to sing this prayer in its entirety. I can join them for a line or two, but then I run back as my voice cracks.

I know that God hears prayers, and when He answers directly life is never the same. While this isn't necessarily a bad thing, it is a change, and I've got to muster some courage before I run out and lay myself out on His altar.

They are heading out of our neck of the woods for a summer of touring. If you have opportunity to see them, I highly recommend it! You will be blessed!


Repentence
Music and Lyrics by Molly Lockwood

Humble me, expose the depths of my heart
Shine Your Light where sin hides in the dark.
Set me free, I long to boast in the power of the Cross
But if You choose to leave this thorn, I'll need Your grace to carry on
And the world will see that in my weakness, You are strong.

You have not dealt according to my sin
You have not dealt according to my sin
You have dealt according to Your Mercy
You have dealt according to Your Mercy
God of grace

Thank You, Lord
It's an honor to be worked on by Your hands
To know You love me and choose to use me as I am
All I can bring are these confessions, Made in pure humility
And it's here in Your forgiveness that I'm set free
Free to fall on grace and not my ability
Free to fall on grace and not my ability

Let Your cross have its perfect work in me

Friday, June 4, 2010

Evolution

There is definite change in my life. Change that I've prayed for, and thought I would really struggle with it when it came. Perhaps, on one hand, I have.... on the other... it strikes me by surprise when I realize it.

My eating habits have changed quiet a bit in the past couple of months. The biggest change is I've transitioned to six small meals a day. When I'm really following that, I am amazed at how good I feel. When I have a meal more similar to my life a year or two ago, I am amazed at how much it affects me.

It's just a part of the evolution that is occurring in my life and in that of my family.

I've gotta say, now that I'm in a bit, I'm really glad to be here. I'm sure I dug my heels in and turned away before I ever stepped.

And I'm sure that this isn't the ONLY area in my life that is evolving.... God only knows for sure. I just know where I've had my heels dug.

Thursday, June 3, 2010

A Day at Home

While I have enjoyed the days at the pool, it is time for a day at home.

The laundry needs folding and the yard needs tending. Seriously, I need about a week in the yard to get it where I would like it. But, I will have today.

I shall pull weeds and transplant seedlings that are growing. Bird feeders shall be filled as will bird baths.

And God and I will have a good long chance to talk about the goings on in my life.

Wednesday, June 2, 2010

Ahhhhh.... summer....

We spent the day as I hope we will spend many more this summer.

It began at my MMA class and transitioned to the pool. We spent the remainder of the day hanging out with friends swimming. Wonderful, wonderful... especially after a crazy weekend at work.

I know that we'll have to have some days at home keeping up with laundry, housework and the yard, but the day was beautiful, and we enjoyed ourselves.

The kids and I swam laps (the girl takes today's record of 32 25-yd lengths of the pool!)

We also learned something very important. Spray sunscreen and lotion are NOT created equal. This mom is wishing she'd insisted on the lotion for said girl's face. ouch.

Suffice it to say, we had an enjoyable day!

Tuesday, June 1, 2010

The Voice of Truth



I remember when I first heard this song. I had fallen in love with their song "Who am I", and was trying to repeat-play it, but apparently hit the back twice... and ended up at the beginning of The Voice of Truth. The intro caught my attention, and I began to listen.

The lyrics brought tears to my eyes. How many times had I been right there? Wishing I had the courage, and hearing the voices of others or of old tapes in my head laughing at me and telling me I'd never be able do it.

It soon became a new favorite.

Not long after wards, it gave me the courage to step out of my comfort zone to teach yoga. At the same time, I realized the giant could represent my marriage and subsequent divorce.

In those moments when I needed my courage and clarity, I would pay particular attention to the different voices. "I [would] choose to listen and believe the Voice of Truth".