FEAST OR FAMINE?

No!  Don't!  Stop!  Good puppy!  Good Hershey!  Sit!  Cookie?  How many times a day do I say these words?  I'm still in the process of training Hershey and somehow....He's not quite trained yet!  I can't quite get this precious, chocolate bundle of hair to do the things I need him to do.  Probably because I can't get into the habit, or should I say, I'm not quite trained in making sure I'm consistent in my training methods, to ensure Hershey obey the rules set down to be a good and obedient dog.  I do my best...I give him the finest "treats" to ensure he loves doing what is right.  And the things I am able to do that with (i.e.  outside potty, sit for treats and dinner, bed time, come when called), he does well.  I guess I just have to work on the other things like, no barking, heel when walking, etc.

You know, God gives us treats when we are obedient to Him as well.  We have the joy in knowing we are right with Him.  We have peace, comfort, oneness with Him.  He continues to guide us, direct us and commune with us.  He never leaves us and lives within us.  Yet, there is always this one part of us that sometimes separates us from Him.  This one part we refuse to let go.  One part, like Hershey, is our one little stubborn streak that we continue to disobey.  And we feed/treat this part, this "sin nature" of ours.  And why do we treat it, like I treat Hershey when he does things right?  With dog training, if you treat a dog for doing good, it affirms the behavior and a dog will continue the behavior.  If you stop the treat, he will discontinue the behavior.  So....if we feed our sin nature,...won't we continue the sinful behavior? But if we stop feeding the sin....won't we stop?  Example:  There is a woman who loves to decorate her home.  She is constantly buying decorator magazines and pouring through them, looking for the next new idea for her home.  She tears out pictures, draws designs out and picks out swatches to recover the furniture for her next project.  However, her husband keeps telling her they are terribly in debt and are unable to spend any money on anything.  Though the woman knows this, her habit and desire to spend continues.  You see...this sinful desire to have what she doesn't need and can't afford, what God does not intend for her at this time does not need to be fed by her continued purchase of these magazines.  If she would discontinue to feed this sinful nature of purchasing the magazines, the desire would soon fade and that part of her sinful nature would come under God's control.

So...feast or famine?  What are you feeding your sinful nature that needs to stop?  I think I've had enough.....what about you?

WHAT'S YOUR NAME?

http:www.facebook.com/loveysDiaryI had the privilege of attending a wonderful lunch today.  The lunch was a fundraiser for a local Young Lives chapter.  This group is a division, I think, of Young Life that mentors to young, unwed, high school girls.  These young women are remarkable.  They come to this group, many from the most devastating situations and difficult home and/or personal situations, with no where to go or no one to look to.  Here, they're shown unconditional love, acceptance and the One who can meet all their needs and provide the hope they need for a future  - a future already planned in advance for them from the beginning of time.  These young women are the Hagar's of our day.  Women with children born out of wedlock and often looked down on, despised, mocked and turned away.  Women who are left with children to care for alone.  Young women who are cast out but found by their Redeemer who "sees them" where they are at their lowest point.

I guess many of us feel as Hagar did at one point.  Though we may not have an illegitimate child, we are in the position of feeling alone, cast out, ridiculed and despised because in our sinfulness, we failed to trust God and tried to do things in our own way and in our own timing.  We too have had haughty attitudes, despised another, mocked another and even hated in our hearts.  We have been Hagars at some point.  We have hit our Hagar moment.

What is your name right now?  Is it Hagar?  How are you feeling?  Did you know that someONE sees you right where you are?

I'm thankful HE has seen me

STUFFING AND SQUEAKERS

http://facebook.comWell, he's done it again!  We bought Hershey a new stuffed toy for Christmas and he has totally destroyed it!  He LOVES stuffed toys....especially those with "squeakers" in them.  He's had many, many of them.  And with each one, he has meticulously managed to open each one, remove the stuffing all over the house over the period of several days (I guess to give me the "pleasure" of having white carpet for a LONG time) and remove the "squeaker" from it, carrying the "squeaker" around in his mouth like a prize bird he had just caught!  After chewing on the squeaker for a period of a day, he manages to leave plastic chunks in areas I won't even talk about and then throws up in his bed at night. 

Well....his new Christmas toy, a BEAUTIFUL stuffed Baylor Bone was no different.  And I had managed to keep it so well hidden in the Christmas tree from him until Christmas day.  He didn't start on it right away.  But this past week....he went to town.  I have picked up stuffing ALL WEEK LONG!  Then...last night...THE SQUEAKER!  I saw it in his mouth and grabbed it before he could....well, you know.  I thought I was pretty smart.  Yep...that's me...pretty smart all right.  Yep...pretty smart....and who's the one who GAVE him the stuffed bone??????  Well, you can guess where that beautiful Baylor bone is now.

But aren't we like Hershey?  We take the beautiful things God gives us and yank the stuffing right out of them.  The fluff that God put in it to make it beautiful for us, we somehow seem to destroy or remove.  How often in our complaints and selfishness do we flatten the beauty of the gifts God gives us?  Then, we take the "squeaker", the "joy" he puts inside, and rip it out until there is nothing left.

I'm so thankful God is not like us...he doesn't throw it or us away like I do.  God restores, renews, loves us and returns us back to a state of rightness with Him.  He continues to shower us with His gifts and teaches us to to lovingly care for them and those around us.

Thank you Father for loving us enough to teach us the joy in the gifts you provide.

SLEEPYHEAD

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Hershey just cracks me up! I go to wake him in the mornings to let him out and he can hardly wake up. I've never known a dog that has such a hard time waking up. I don't know why...he just does. He's such a sleepyhead. I open his crate door and he slooooooowly comes out.....strrrrreeeeeetches, leeeeeeeeeans into me and just stands there, like he needs something to lean on until he can get his bearings. Then he gives this HUGE yawn, looks up....and BAM! He's awake! Don't get it. One minute half asleep....the next, BAM! Awake. Blows my mind.

Are people really different? I guess I am. And of course, here I am this morning, as I have the past few mornings, awake since 3:00 am. MAN! I hate these mornings. I am NOT an early bird, though I usually get up early. But its not my favorite time of day. Like Hershey.....I'm slow to wake up. And when it do finally awake...,it is NOT a BAM! It is more like a....Oh jeeee whiz......do I really HAVE TO ???????

However, I have found in these times when I can't sleep and end up getting up at these, as other people call them, "ungodly" times of the morning, they are really my "Godly" times of the morning. It is in these wee hours of the morning, when the house is soooo quiet, soooo still, no one to interrupt me, no Hershey bounding about, no barking, nothing,,,,that I get to meet and hear my Lord. It is in these "Godly" times of the morning that I can really listen, without interruption, without phones, without all the other stuff, with a clear mind and with only God's Words.

So today....I'm thankful for those days I can't sleep and God wakes me up...opens the cage I sleep in. Encourages me to get up, come out, snuggle up to Him, listen and visit.

Good morning sleepyhead!

MAN'S BEST FRIEND

http://facebook.com  I've already introduce you to our new puppy.  Yep, Hershey...our chocolate labradoodle.  Yes, he's adorable.  He's lovable, friendly, funny and the cutest dog on earth.  I know, I know....EVERYONE says that about their dog.  However, it's really true about Hershey!  He's chocolate and I could just eat him up!

The thing about Hershey is that he is the most social dog I know.  He loves people.  ALL people.  Doesn't matter who they are.  I thought, perhaps, it was just me, and MAYBE, Jimmy.  But no...he loves ALL people.  And he desperately wants ALL people to love him.  He even SMILES at people.  You can tell by the last picture I posted.  He's a HOOT!  Well....except for those times when he gets so excited that he "relieves" himself as he bounces around greeting someone. ( Most don't think that is very charming).  But Hershey can't help himself....he is so jealous for other's love.  He loves them so that he wants their love too. 

The fact is, when people talk about man's best friend, I truly believe they are talking about Hershey.  They guy is just a knock out of a friend.  He's all over you with kisses and fun!  When you are down...he makes you laugh.  When you need to exercise and don't want to ....he's there pushing to walk.  When you have too much on your plate and are feeling guilty for over indulging...he's there begging to take the hit for you and take it under the table.  When you are cooking and drop stuff on the floor...he's there cleaning for you (what a champ)!  If you leave food on the table, he'll clean the table for you.  (now really, do your children do that?)  And when the grandchildren come.....he BABYSITS!!!!!!  WOW!  When you are in bed and cold, he's there to keep you feet warm.  They guy just does it ALL!  MAN'S BEST FRIEND!

However, there is someONE else who we might consider even more than my Hershey as man's best friend.  SomeONE who is just as social in His relationships with those he cares for.  SomeONE who not only loves me, but loves everyone and wants everyone to love Him.  SomeONE who loves people so much that He is jealous for their love.  SomeONE who brings us joy in times of sadness, pushes us to be our best when we want to go otherwise.  SomeONE who doesn't want us to carry around the guilt, so took the hit for us on the cross.  SomeONE who http:www.facebook.com/loveysdiarycleans up our messes when we are trying to follow His recipe for life.  SomeONE who babysits our families when we turn them over to Him and leave them in His hands.  Someone who holds us in His arms and comforts us and warms us in the glow of His presence.  Man's Best Friend.  SomeONE...Our Lord Jesus Christ!

ROCKING

http.//facebook.comWe have a rather new puppy.  His name is Hershey.  Hershey is a year old, and is still in the "chew" stage of his "toddler" years.  If you want proof...just look at the skirt of the chairs in the loft upstairs in our home.  For some reason, Hershey decided the skirt on one of those chairs was VERY tasty!

Those two chairs are really the most comfy chairs in our home.  My husband and I LOVE to sit in them to watch movies.  He says we need to have them recovered.  I hate to do that because they just wont be the same...you know how that goes.  They just won't "feel" the same.  The original fabric felt so good and the chair cushions were "just right".  So....what do I do?  The question begs...do I look for new chairs or do I recover?

If I look for new chairs, I would love to get those neat "glider/rockers", like they have in baby rooms.  You know...they are soooooo smooth and soft.  There is something about sitting in them that just puts you to sleep.  You just sigh when you sit down in one of them.  They are plush and soft and they rock and swing and turn and make you feel all kinds of good!  Yes...perhaps that is the answer.

Don't you wish there were "gliders/rockers" for things that could make you feel like that at those times in your life when you are down or even those times of despair?  Those times of loneliness, when you feel all alone, desperate, no where to turn and no one to turn to.  No one who understands and you don't know what to do next or how to "fix" what is going wrong?

I was studying Genesis this week, where Hagar had run off from Abraham and Sarah and was in the desert.  She was alone and pregnant with Abraham's son Ishmael.  She fled Sarah, who was angry with her.  She was desperate, no food, no money, no family, no help and no one to turn to.  BUT....God met her were she was....God "saw her".  And when God spoke to Hagar....it was like He "rocked" her in His arms and made all things right.  He spoke truth to her, told her what to do, told her what would happen and told her to go back to Abraham and Sarah and obey.  He brought peace and joy to Hagar.  He cared for her.  God was her "glider", her "ahhhhhhh", when all the world seemed right, because He was there in the center.

I had that experience once.  I was alone, pregnant, desperate, in despair and felt as if no one understood or cared.  God "saw me" in my despair and God actually "rocked" me!  It's true....it was like rocking/gliding in one of those baby rockers.  He made all things right by His peace and joy, truth and mercy.  It was as if He was rocking me and holding me "under His wing and close to His heart."

Have you been rocked recently?  If not.....I know someONE who is waiting with open arms.

THE BEST BIRTHHDAY GIFT

Sometimes, the best gifts are the ones not of material value, but those that prick our hearts, our souls and our minds.  Those that stay with us for eternity and remind us of what is most important in our lives.

On December 24, 1968, William Alders, Astronaut for Apolo 8 space mission looked up from the surface of the moon and saw the most majestic view he would ever witness.  He saw the earth rising across the horizon of the moon's surface.  After being told to wait by the shuttle commander because the picture wasn't a scheduled photo, Alders grabbed his color camera and snapped the below picture which would today, be known as the most influential environmental photo ever taken.  But to many Christians, it may be one of the biggest examples of proof of God's handiwork in creation, ever.  To believe that THIS could come from a BANG instead of the tender care of a Master's hand is insanity.

This week, the first chapter of Genesis tells us of how God carefully and orderly orchestrated His creation in six days and on the seventh day, rested.  And in no less than 7 times did our Creator look at all He did and proclaim "it was good!"  In fact, the last time, the sixth day, He proclaimed, "it was VERY good!"

Just looking at the picture below, one can see it is not only good, but it is indeed, VERY good.  And looking at this incredible picture, taken on  my birthday in 1968, I too, believe without a doubt, it is VERY good.

You see, our Creator doesn't do things half way.  He doesn't do things any way but the VERY best.  He is orderly, precise, intentional, complete and all He does, He does without reservation.  He created the VERY best and He gave His VERY BEST for our redemption.  My question is, how do I do the things He calls me to do?  Am I orderly, precise, intentional, complete and do I give Him my VERY BEST and serve Him without reservation? 

What a beautiful reminder Earthrise serves for each of us.  A reminder of the BEST gift our Creator has given us...redemption through the blood of His son Jesus Christ!

I am grateful for such a beautiful birthday gift!

 

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APPLE's NEW REVELATION

Yesterday, began our first week of the study of Genesis at BSF.  "In the beginning" is how God begins His description of His creation.  Genesis is a description of "new beginnings" about many things...of God's creation of this world, of man, of man's need for redemption, of His chosen people, of a covenant with man and so on and so on.  But what is interesting to me, is after His creation of man, man's "new beginning" of a need for redemption all began with an "APPLE".

On September 12th, our first class day, Apple, Inc. announced the near production and sale of their new iPhone 5.  Now this was something I have been waiting for for several months.  I am qualified for an upgrade on my iPhone and have been waiting for the new "5".  When I awoke on Wednesday morning, the 12th, excited about the first day of BSF, I took Hershey (our puppy)out for his morning "you-know-what"!  We usually sit on the steps a moment together before he is ready to go.  At 5:00 a.m. in the morning, it's still dark, the moon is still in the sky, stars bright and the air quiet and still.  The air was cool and light and it was a perfect time to reflect and pray as we sat together looking into the sky.  It was truly beautiful, and at that moment, I understood what God meant when He said everyone had proof from nature alone, He was creator of all things good.  There is no excuse for anyone to deny knowing Him.  I could not help but sit in praise and thanksgiving at the beauty of the morning.

After a few minutes, in all my humanness, my mind wondered to the "toy" being revealed that day.  Oh boy!  The "Apple iPhone 5"!  As I thought about it, I got the picture of the Apple logo in my mind.  An apple with a bite out of it.  I began to laugh at myself.  And then, hung my head in shame.  What a pity I thought.  Man's first need for redemption began with a bite out of an apple.  Man's desire for something, some "thing", not necessary, just something man wanted, some "thing" he put before God, some "thing" that would offer him power, knowledge, whatever he desired.  But that "thing" is the very "thing" that would separate him from the "One" who provided him with all that he really needed.  Now, man would need redemption.  I hung my head in shame because it reminded me of my need for redemption and what it cost my Lord.

I guess all these "Apple" products can serve a great purpose.  They can be a GREAT reminder to us all of the love and generosity our Lord poured out as He hung on the cross to redeem each of us for the penalty of our sin.  Display the logo, as a reminder of your Redeemer!

KING of ME

Keep drinkin' coffee
Stare me down across the table
While I look outside

So many things I'd say if only I were able
But I just keep quiet
And count the cars that pass by

You've got opinions, man
We're all entitled to 'em
But I never asked

So let me thank you for time
And try to not waste any more of mine
Get out of here fast

I hate to break it to you babe
But I'm not drowning
There's no one here to save

Who cares if you disagree
You are not me
Who made you king of anything
So you dare tell me who to be
Who died
And made you king of anything

Oh (oh oh oh)
Oh (oh oh oh)
Oh (oh oh oh)
Oh (oh oh oh)

You sound so innocent
All full of good intent
You swear you know best

But you expect me to
Jump up on board with you
Ride off into your dellusional sunset

I'm not the one who's lost
With no direction oh
But you won't ever see

You're so busy makin' maps
With my name on them in all caps
You got the talkin' down just not the listening

And who cares if you disagree
You are not me
Who made you king of anything
So you dare tell me who to be
Who died
And made you king of anything

All my life
I've tried
To make everybody happy while I
Just hurt
And hide
Waitin' for someone to tell me it's my turn
To decide

Oh (oh oh oh)
Oh (oh oh oh)
Oh (oh oh oh)
Oh (oh oh oh)

Who cares if you disagree
You are not me
Who made you king of anything
So you dare tell me who to be
Who died
And made you king of anything

Who cares if you disagree
You are not me
Who made you king of anything
So you dare tell me who to be
Who died
And made you king of anything

Let me hold your crown, babe
Oh oh
Ah

The lyrics above are from a song entitled "King of Anything".  I'm sure it was written about an unhappy couple.  I first thought it rather funny - a "You go girl" kind of song.  But later, realized it could also describe our attitudes toward our heavenly Father at times.

Some ONE did die and make Him King of EVERYTHING!  Is He your King?

DOORS

My son Graham has this knack for capturing unusual pictures while riding the subway, bus or taking a liesurley run on a sunny afternoon.  He always has his phone with him and manages to capture the picture and post it on Facebook or texts me with some approprate or humorous caption.  I received this one by text this morning with the caption, "Where does your door lead?"

It reminds me of the doors that are opened and closed by our Lord each and every day.  Think of the story of Noah.  God opened the doors of the ark for the safety, protection and salvation for all who would trust Him, follow His summon and come under His wing of protection.

God also closed the same door of the ark for the safety, protection and salvation of those who trusted Him, followed His summon and came under His protection in the ark.

Remember, it's not what happens when the doors are opened closed, but our attitude and response to their opening and closings. 

I'M A CARRYIN GRAMA?

Hey! Are you packin? If so...you better be carryin! Isn't it funny how words can be perceived to mean several things? Take for instance, "packin". In this case, is meant to mean "carrying" a gun." And "carryin," to mean a "license to carry a firearm or a gun." But there can be other meanings too.

My mom went to the hospital last Thursday to have a stint put into the artery along her right femur. She had two blockages in the artery of her right leg. One 99% blocked below the knee, and one 80% blocked above the knee. In order to clean out the artery, they went through the groin area to clean out the veins where the blockages were and put a stint in the artery above the knee (apparently they do not put stints below the knee). Years of bad eating habits and a family history of high blood pressure were probably the cause for the blockages.

Mother had the same procedure done in October on the left leg. The procedure worked so well, she was looking forward to this one. Her left leg no longer had pain when she walked and she could walk further and longer than before. With the right leg cleaned out and the artery opened up, she was looking forward to exercising and feeling better without experiencing pain.

The first procedure went by without a hitch, except that the nurse caused her much pain AFTER the surgery when he had to press on the artery opening in the groin area until the compression stopped the bleeding (about 20 minutes). She hated that. There was much complaining over THAT procedure! Otherwise, she felt no pain the day after and was ready to walk down the hall. However, this time, the cardiologist chose a different device to stop the bleeding. It is called an Angio-seal Device. It is an anchor placed into the opening of the incision, and is drawn together with the collagen with an absorbable suture, stopping the bleeding. After 60-90 days the anchor, collagen and suture, naturally absorb into the body. Before leaving the hospital, mother was given a card to carry with her for 90 days, until all was absorbed, in case of an accident, or medical emergency, so EMS workers or doctors would be notified of the device. NOW, mother is known as "carryin!" Yes, my 85 year old mom is a "carryin" grama!

Staying at the hospital with my mom, made me realize I have blockages myself. I too, have needs to be cleaned and opened so the blood of Jesus can flow through me. My blockages have been cause by years of unconfessed sin, pridefulness, arrogance, lack of faith and unbelief. These sins have cause callouses to form inside me that needed to be cleaned out - "rotor rooted" as one might say. Opened to allow God's goodness and mercy to flow through to others.

That's exactly what the Lord Jesus did for me on the cross. His blood, shed on the cross, cleansed me and freed me from the sins that blocked me from having that wonderful relationship with the Father. This whole procedure makes me realize that I too, am "carryin." I too, carry notification of something inside. I too, am cleaned out, cleaned so there is nothing "blocking" God's freshness and purity flowing through me. I too, am sealed with identification that I have been healed and have new life within. That "seal", God's Holy Spirit, is what I "carry." It identifies me as being healed and cleaned out. It says God has touched me. God has healed me. I belong to Him.

Yes, I am "carryin!" I'm a "CARD CARRYIN BELIEVER!"

So today, I am thankful for two things. One, to God for the wonderful knowledge, skill and ability He gives our doctors, nurses, scientist, and etc., who are able to give my mom newness in her physical life - new energy and time to enjoy the time she has without pain. But also, I am thankful for my Lord Jesus Christ, for the healing He has done in me, my mom and my family and friends. For giving me new life, new energy, no more agony over sin, no more burden and shame for confessed sin, but joy in my repentance as He has paid the cost that I may have eternal life now, in abundance.

Are you "carryin?"

TRAINS, PLANES AND AUTOMOBILES

Travel...yes, I love to travel. It is one of my favorite pastimes. Even the "transportation" which I usefor travel is interesting. Sometimes, I take a car (my least favorite mode of transportation). Cars are okay...but on long trips, and I mean anything over five hours, a car is not my favorite way to get from one place to another. Especially if I must go in Jimmy's Corvette! I hate his car. It is VERY uncomfortable for me to travel in. There have been times when Jimmy and I took his parents motor home. Our children were little and we would take family trips to the beach and stay in the motor home. My idea of "camping" is in a motor home that is air conditioned, with a restroom that has a shower; a kitchen; bedroom (at least one for me) and a table one can eat at and play games at. "Camping" need not be toooooooo outdoorsy! But I do like a motor home. You see, I don't have to do any of the driving. After all, I'm a girl who has never driven a HUGE RV and don't intend to learn how to drive one. I can travel just fine walking around in an RV, getting people food, going to the bathroom when need be, playing games, etc. when we are on our way to wherever our destination is. The only problem with an RV is that you have to pull a car along with it. An RV is hard to park in the middle of big city you are trying to tour. Jimmy likes to drive THROUGH the city and SAY he has been there and seen whatever is in the city. NOT my idea of travel. I'm a touch it, feel it, taste it, experience it kind of traveler. So RVs aren't my favorite mode of travel either.

Planes are good. However, Osama has ruined that for all us good Americans. It has become a hassle to get on a plane anymore. I'm not complaining that we need to keep the security of our air travel safe...it's just that when trying to look nice when I travel, even for a short distance, I have to undress in line in order to go through security. Taking off most of what I wear in order for that security thing not to blow up is kind of tricky. Then, trying to put it all back on in front of everyone after you get on the other side...well, I might as well have done a strip show! By that time, I no longer look as nice as I did when I started out. What's a girl to do? Sometimes I bring socks to put on my feet so when I am expected to take my shoes off, I don't have to walk on that cold marble floor through security. The floor MUST be filthy with all those feet that were in other's shoes. Can we say foot odor, fungus, etc.? YUK! Then I have to put the nasty socks back in my bag when I take them off to put my shoes back on. The list just keeps going on! Have you ever had to sit in a seat on the plane with someone who hasn't bathed in a while? I worked a flight once (when I was a flight attendant) when a couple asked it they could be moved because the man next to them smelled so bad they couldn't think. The fact was...when I walked down the aisle, and he was sitting by the window, I could smell him several rows BEFORE I ever reached him! It was a LONG, LONG flight overseas! Then of course, the bathrooms on planes...well, we just won't go there! Still, a plane is best for long distances.

What a bout a bus? Do I dare go there? Have you really ever ridden a bus? Now that is a trip!!! I have on occasion ridden a bus. Not here in the states that I remember, but I have overseas. The seats are even more uncomfortable than those of a plane. Then you have people getting on and off at different locations. They too, have luggage. There's the sway and stop and go and of course, the dreaded "bathroom"! I'm not going to say anything else about a bus...you will just have to use your imagination...because whatever you think...think 10 times worse!

What about a train? I know, they are slow. But I like trains. You can move around on a train. There are stops with people getting on and off. BUT...think about this...you have assigned seats. There are some seats where there is a table where others can sit across from you. If you are with a group, you can play games. Trains have a dining car. They even have sleepers if you are traveling over night. They travel through cities and through the country. The view ranges from sad to beautiful. You can take your time and see the country. You can walk around. You can sit, sleep and eat. There are even trains who have private (glassed in) seating areas. You can reserve non smoking areas. I've traveled on trains in Europe and I love trains. Fast trains are the best. Yes, here they are longer. But with the right friends and family...they could be some really great times together.

I have an opportunity to take a train in March to Dallas for our Bible Study Retreat. I hope I can find some friends to travel with me by train. I think it would be great. What a way to really get to know people. Train travel here in the states, consists of moving along, slowly and surely, making necessary stops to add people and drop people off, pick up necessary supplies, times for eating meals, times for rest, times for conversation, times to just relax, times to take care of business (by phone or e-mail) and even time for fun. On a train, one can manage all those things that you can do some of on a plane, some of in a car, some of on a bus, but all of on a train.

Isn't that the way it is with our Lord. We all have one final place to go. One place that can only be reached by His help. Only be reached when we "hitch hike" a ride with Him. He is the only one who can take us there. He is the only one who has the "ability" or the right "passage" to take us there. HE is the ONLY WAY. Do you have your thumb out?

So today, I am thankful for transportation. For trains, planes, buses, cars, horses, motorcycles, bicycles and feet. I'm sure there are others....I just haven't tried them. Thankful for transportation that gets me to the places I need to go and the places I like to go. But most of all, I am thankful for my Lord. Because HE is "the way", the only "way" by which I can arrive to my ultimate destination...eternity with Him. HE is the way, the truth and the light.

Anyone need a ride?

ANYONE GOT THE RIGHT TIME?

Well, Graham and Whit finally moved into their new place. Though still in some boxes, furniture is arranged, some pictures hung, dog kennels out and ready for the pups to use and beds ready to collapse in. They still can’t use their kitchen...still waiting on the remodel to be completed and having to eat out and keep dishes, pots and pans and utensils in boxes until the wood floors are in place, cabinets are up, appliances in place and hooked up and painting done. Ahhhhh, the joys of moving!

I talked with Graham last night and asked him to send me pics to see the place so far. He said they weren’t ready to take pics yet. No painting has been done and no drapes bought or put up. I sort of laughed. Their bedroom has a window that is wide open for the neighbors next door to step out on their balcony and see right into their bedroom, looking at them in bed! Oooooops! However...the view out of ALL their windows throughout the apartment is breathtaking. Amazing how we all view the “undone things” with frustration, yet forget to notice the unbelievable beauty right around us.

But back to my point...Graham’s statement that “he wasn’t ready or had the time right then to send pics.” It’s funny that “that statement,” was the same one a sibling of mine said one day when we were talking and I asked him about his relationship with our Lord. His very comment was that he just “didn’t have time for that right now”. Really? Seriously? No time at all? Hmmmm. I wasn’t sure exactly what he meant, but my hunch was that he wasn’t ready to deal with what he thought would cost him something or that he would have to give up...i.e. money, time, conviction, personal standards for living, etc. He wasn’t ready to give up “his” idea of what “he” wanted to do or how “he” wanted to live “his” life. It really saddened me. Because, you see, I knew how much he was really missing out on. How much “more” he would have. Since I’ve truly known my Lord, I’ve known the abundance of life one has when they know the Lord Jesus as Savior. Only those who truly know him understand all one forfeits when they refuse to take time to know Him AND what MORE they have to gain by doing so.

So today, I am thankful for time. God has allowed me to stay at home and not work outside the home. I am thankful for the available time I have to spend with Him in prayer and study. The time I have to serve Him in my church, in BSF with my family and friends. I am thankful for His Words in the scriptures that promise He will make up for those years I have wasted. That my time is not measured the same as His time. That thee will be a “time” when He will draw my sibling to Himself and that my sibling will have such a passion to know Him that “time” will not exist, but only moments with our Lord. But mostly, I am thankful there will be a “time” when he will come again and we who know Him will face Him face to face and “time” will not longer exist.

My prayer is that, especially for my family and friends, ALL will take the “time” to come to know Him as their personal savior. All will have “time”, God’s time, to spend with Him and one day have an intimate relationship with Him.

How much time do I spend with Him daily? Is it like time in a bottle, measured, calculated, no more or no less than what is measured in the bottle? Only a measured amount? Or is it uninterrupted? Passionate? Time I can’t live without?

Hmmm...I better get moving today...Jimmy will be home soon from his errands and will be asking what I did with MY time! (What a slave driver! Ha!)

FOR THE LOVE OF DANCE

Ems twirling in her new "lellow" ballet costume

Our Emery is now taking ballet. Oh, how proud I am of our little angel. To think that I would ever have a little granddaughter that would take ballet...a miracle since I had two sons to a husband of an all male family, and with only two boy cousins. But this little girl just loves to "twirl" as her daddy calls it. She loves to swing her arms to and fro, skip around the room turning as much as she can, jumping and smiling all the way. What a sight to see for a grandmother who took classical ballet from one of the most remarkable ballet teachers known. But after all, Ems is only three. Just the sight of a pink leotard thrills her heart.

I go to her ballet and tap practices as often as possible. It really tickles me to see this doe eyed little girl love something I loved so much. After all, she's such a mommy's girl, I didn't think she even liked me for a while...and now, she's in love with something that was major in a large portion of my life.

It makes me wonder if she will turn out to love dance as much as I did for so long? Will she be a good dancer? Will she be better than I was? More dedicated? Be taught by someone with the standards Miss Judith, my wonderful teacher had? Will she love dance just for dance and not for where it will take her? Will she pursue it as a career? Her eyes sparkle now...but will they sparkle for it in years to come as she sits to watch the Nutcracker at Christmas, or even dances in it for others? Who will she be because of it? Will she learn discipline from it? Will she learn manners and courtesy toward others? Will she learn to love classical ballet instead of some sort of dance that looks as if a pole should be involved? (sorry...just sort of slipped out!) My hopes and prayers for Ems is for the joy it gave me for so many years. Not from what I became because of it...but because of what it is...beautiful, graceful, disciplined, strength, strong, patient, endurance, joyful, self controlled, awesome! This is what I want for Ems. This is the love for dance I want her to experience.

It reminds me of the love we experience from our heavenly Father. We often see it, want it, work to know him and receive it. And when we get it, we experience the joy of His love, not because of what we get out of it, but because of who He is...He is beautiful and the creator of all things beautiful. He is graceful - full of grace and mercy. He is disciplined and organized, strong and almighty. He is patient, and endures all things and He is our joy and hope. He is self control and withholds what we truly deserve but gives us more than we deserve. He is AWESOME! Is this why I love ballet so much? Was this the foreshadowing of what God would show me of himself in later years...but I just didn't know it at the time?

I hope my Ems sees the beauty in ballet and the beauty in our Father. I hope she experiences all the fruits of joy I received from those many years of dancing in studios and on stage, but even more the fruits of the Holy Spirit as she comes to know the beauty of our Lord.

So today, I am thankful for Em's other grandma Kristi, who sent me a wonderful video of a beautiful ballerina and her partner that thrilled my heart as I watched them perform. Thankful for the joy I received in watching them, but also, for the reminder of the unbelievable joy I receive when I think about the love and joy I receive from my Lord. Not because of what He does for me... but because of who He is.

So Ems...can you show me that "twirl" in your new "lellow" costume one more time?

FAMOUS PEOPLE

Who do you think you are?

Well, here they go again! Paris may be headed back to jail. Lindsay may be headed back to jail. The Hoff is dancing on TV (if you can call it dancing - more like dancing with the MOUTH). Tiger is back on the course. But "back" may not be what we think it is. Obama and the Democrats are getting hit hard and Madonna, of all people, is teaming with her 13 year old daughter to start a clothing line (THIS I gotta see! Wonder if it will include underwear?) The news goes on and on about "famous" people. In fact, some are called "famous" and making news just because they are from "famous" families or doing stupid things.

Have you ever felt all excited about meeting a "famous" person? Just being in the presence of a "famous" person makes us all tingly inside. Famous people can walk into a room and people go nuts! Magazines are sold because their pictures are on the front. Everyone wants to know them and know all about them. People even stalk them. Some people become famous because they crash parties (reeeeeeealy...the Salahis!) - they even get TV reality shows because of it or because they were once married to someone famous. Even multiple "children" get reality shows and become "famous."

These are the kind of people we consider "famous" today. The kind of people we look to, to emulate. No wonder we are such a messed up group of people.

I had a wonderful day yesterday. After Bible study, I went to meet my mother and friends at lunch. I wasn't sure who would be there, but I thought I would join them for a little while, even though I knew I would be late arriving. WOW, was I in for a surprise! It wasn't until the end of the lunch, we were all visiting, that I discovered just WHO I was lunching with! No, their names are none that would be recognized by the world today. No, they did not do anything terrible to be discovered for or earth shattering by our world's standards. I had lunch with 7 women who I would consider "famous" people. Between the 8 of us, we accumulated approximately 227 years of service in this one area of serving our Lord. Some of these women were "biggies" in my book. Yet, I sat through the entire lunch, not knowing for much time, who they were, except their names. Then, I asked one question, and suddenly I realized the magnitude of "nobility" I was lunching with.

These were not rich, wealthy women. Not women who made the news. Not woman who would boast of their deeds or even presume to be known by anyone. These were humble, unassuming "servants", who I knew were known by the most important King in all the earth. Woman who had the ear of their King, always sitting at His feet, asking His advice and carrying out His will.

You know the thrill I spoke of when in the presence of someone famous? It ran all through me. These women, I knew, were famous for their reliance on their King and their dedication and passion in their service to Him. They were famous for the lives they touched all across the earth, just moving in and out, from place to place as their King directed.

If they knew I was calling them famous or bragging on them, they would poo-poo me. They would only point to their King and give Him all the credit. They want no glory, no recognition for their service. They put on no airs. They are just these non assuming, beautiful servants who want nothing more than to joyfully serve their king with excellence.

I've known several of these woman (from afar) for many years. Held them in high regard. Look at them in awe for the work they have done and continue to do. And today, look at them with even greater awe. These incredible women are of such character that many would look to them as role models for their standard of living. Yet they themselves would only point to their King as the standard by which to follow.

When I got home, I was so excited about my lunch. I was so grateful to have the privilege to sit "at their feet", listening to their stories and wisdom. Yet, in it all, they gave glory and honor to their King. I had to ask...who gets my attention? Who am I most in awe of? By who's standard do I purpose to live? Who's feet do I wish to sit at the feet of? To whom do I give the glory for all good things? You see, their King is the Lord God. Their standard is that of their King, the Lord God. Their attention is captivated by their King, the Lord God. It is their King, the Lord God's, who's feet they sit at, to whom they give all glory and honor.

What do my family and friends see in me? How will they see me and will they see me pointing to me, or to my King - the Lord God?

Today, I am thankful for the opportunity to lunch with such beautiful, incredible women of God. Women, known by many of a certain group, not by much of the world, but truly known by their King. And women who point all of whom they know to Him and Him alone. What an example they provide for the rest of us to point all others to God and not ourselves. Point others to THE "famous One"!

Do you want to be "known" by the world or do you want to be "known" by the Lamb of God and have your name written in His book for eternity?

Ladies.....thanks for including me!

SWEETHEART DEAL

View from their living room window of Lake Michigan



View from their living room window of Lake Michigan

Dinner with Dave, Graham and Whitney

This past week, I had the opportunity to be in Chicago to visit Graham and Whitney. I had a great trip - loads of fun. During my time there, they asked if I would help pick out paint colors for the new apartment they found and were soon to move into. Their new landlord was in town and wanted me to go with them to meet "Dave", look around the apartment, do a little measuring and possible room arrangement.

We met Dave at his place, previously occupied by a med student for three years. The apartment was in a beautiful location in Chicago proper, with a view to die for! Looking out the living/dining combination, the entire wall faced Lake Michigan. There was nothing blocking their view. It was truly stunning. Though the apartment is old, a little worn (in fact, it still had metal kitchen cabinets with mismatch appliances, pink tile bathroom and baseboards that had been painted a dozen times without being scraped or caulked), the amenities of the building far made up for interior beauty needs. There is underground valet parking with many interior amenities for each apartment owner. We met many neighbors who own their place and all were gracious and hospitable.

After getting to know Dave a little better, he sat down with the kids and worked out the lease. In fact...he gave them a "sweetheart" deal. As we talked, Dave asked my opinion on some design details he wanted to do to improve the kitchen. We aren't talking just a little paint here, we are talking new kitchen cabinets, new appliances, granite counter tops, hardwood floors (the real thing) and more. He asked if we would accompany him to Lowes to pick out the improvements he had in mind. He wanted help to make this apartment warm and inviting - but something of his taste, and something the kids would like.

We had a ball...in fact, we worked at Lowes all the way through lunch. Dave chose only from the best cabinet line, best wooden floors, granite counter tops, beautiful paint color, and beautiful stainless appliances. The kitchen will be wonderful once it is done. We talked about permission for Graham and Whit to take down old vertical blinds and replace with a different window treatment. Ideas were flowing and fun was had by all as each of us envisioned the potential and reality of what the place would look like.

After the full day of picking, choosing, imagining, getting excited over choices, we went to dinner and had a wonderful time visiting and getting to know each other better. We told Dave we had adopted him as a member of our family. It seemed that Dave thought it odd we would welcome him so quickly into the fold. He asked me why I felt that way. My answer was simple...He had welcomed my children, was taking care of their needs, being their friend, watching after them and was interested in them. Anyone who unconditionally accepts my family the way Dave did, is certainly welcomed and considered "family" to us.

You see, Dave was riding a bike and stopped at a light when he heard Whit speaking to someone and mentioned she was looking for a new apartment. Things don't just happen - God has a plan, and we are in His plan. Graham and Whitney took to Dave and Dave to them. They bonded and Dave had a place for them...just the size, in just the right location, at just the right price, with wonderful amenities, wonderful neighbors, and he welcomed them to come and stay at his place.

Now doesn't that remind you of what our Father does? Our Father always knows our needs. He is right where we are. He hears our needs, He offers us what is right for us, with the best view (HIS) of what He has for us, providing all our needs and even more. He not only has what we need, but He provides the best of what we need, His best, without reservation, and at a sweetheart deal - one He has already paid for.

So today, I am thankful for our new friend Dave. For Dave reminding me of our generous Father who provides all my needs. Not just my needs, but in the right time, with the very best of everything, at a price that is already paid for by Him - my sweetheart deal. And the view - "Heavenly!!!!"

Hmmmm...what's reeeeeealy cool....I'm not the only one who gets this deal! Anyone can have it - you just have to accept it. What a Sweetheart deal!!!

CURIOUS GEORGE

I love to read. In fact, I don't read any ONE kind of book. I like a variety of books. When I was in school, I HATED to read. I would fall asleep when I had to read or study. I can't remember one book I read in high school or college. (Hmmmmm, hope that doesn't mean I didn't read any of them???????) Anyway, I began reading when I was about 30 years old. I was living in the Dallas area and took a 50 minute park and ride to and from downtown Dallas. Since there was nothing to do on the bus for that amount of time, I began reading James Mitchner's books. (What a way to begin, right???) I fell in love with reading. Yes, Mitchner is very detailed, very, very loooooooong, and begins each book from the very beginning of time. But his writings are fantastic. I loved reading his work. I read fiction, autobiographies, history and comedy. I read for entertainment. I don't like self help books. I figure if I have to go to another person who had to go to therapy, and took years to work out their own problems, how could they help me work on mine? Besides, their problems aren't like mine, right? And anyway...what problem was I going to work on? I can't remember....? Oh well....couldn't be tooo bad.

I didn't read to my children when they were small. Jimmy and I both worked, and like I said, I took a 50 minute park and ride home before picking up two little boys from nursery school and rushing home to feed them, bathe them and put them to bed. Reading just wasn't in the picture. Another 30 minutes was just waaaaay too late for two little guys.

My son and daughter-in-law, however, read to our two grandchildren. In fact, Alix, our daughter-in-law, take the kids to the library at least once a week for them to pic out books and movies for their enjoyment. The kids LOVE the library! (Laura Bush would be so proud!) They each get to pick out books of their choice, and at night, before bed, they get to choose the book of their choice that is read. Emery likes her princess books and Huston likes an assortment of books.

I babysat for them last week while Clark and Alix had a date night for their anniversary. Since it was a school night for Huston, I went to their house to sit. After fun time and baths, they chose their books for Lovey to read. Emery chose some short, cute, book and was lights out and fast asleep quickly. Next, Huston was busy choosing just the right one for our time together. It was interesting how he carefully chose between the number of books he brought home from the library. After careful survey, he decided on Curious George. Funny how this little monkey, George, has been such a popular book for so many little kids for so long.

Curious George, and his keeper/master - the man in the yellow suite and hat - are quite a pair. The man is this patient, kind, helpful and protective owner. George, a curious little fellow, cannot help himself, but constantly gets into trouble because he doesn't follow the instructions of his keeper/master in the yellow suite and goes on about his own, curiously seeking something he shouldn't. Sometimes George causes all kinds of trouble, even though his intentions are not to do so. He is just curious. He just can't help himself. He is just following his own desires. Even when his keeper/master would tell him not to do one thing, George could not help himself.

Sometimes, I think I am like George. I am curious. I like to check things out myself. I like to do things or see things or go to things that look good to me, even if I know I shouldn't. Somehow, I convince myself it will be okay and not so bad after all. Like George, I get into trouble. Except my trouble, unlike George's, is sin. You see, my master has given me instruction (in His WORD). They are very clear. His Word is my standard. His yes is yes and his no is no. His basic standard of behavior is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. But in my humanness, I want to explore things MY way. I want to try to do things in MY way, with MY attitude, within MY rules and with MY expectations. Like George, this only causes me trouble. My bailout must come from my keeper in the yellow suite and hat, my Lord. Like Curious George, why do I never learn?

One thing is good to know though, the man in the yellow suite and hat is ALWAYS there for George in the end. He never leaves George. Never forsakes George. That is true for my Lord too. So why do I continue to test Him? Hmmmmm....will I EVER learn?

Today, I am thankful for the unconditional love and support of my Lord, my "MAN" in the yellow suite and hat. The ONE who never leaves me, but is always there when I goof, get into trouble and call for help. The ONE who gives me freedom to choose Him but does not forsake me when I goof and return to Him to repent.

So today, how curious am I to know the ONE in the yellow suite and hat...to know what His desires are for me and His standards are for my life?

Hmmm....I wonder if His glorious suite sparkles like gold? A little glitter, bangles, sequins or beads? Sassy!

OCCUPATIONS

I was looking through a list of registrants for our Bible study this morning, noting occupations of some of the members in order to find certain ones that might be willing to serve in some specific capacity in our class. It got me thinking about the different occupations we all have during our lifetimes. It's funny, but most of us don't even stop to think about the shear NUMBER of occupations we can count as having had. Many of the sheets I looked through had "retired" written on them. Yet, were they really retired?

Take me...I made a list from birth to present...I had to think really hard to remember them all, but here goes:

1. Baby

2. Middle Sibling (not always the best job, but hey...someone had to do it on

our family!)

3. Red Cross Representative in school (at least my school annual said I was)

4. Volunteer in School (plays, etc.)

5. Ballet student

6. Ballet assistant

7. Ballet teacher (loved all the ballet years)

8. Girlfriend (now I REALLY liked that one! Especially since I married the guy!)

9. Baby sitter (prepared me for later years and made some cash)

10. WIFE - Yeah!

11. Sales clerk (YUK)

12. Receptionist (Hello!)

13. Insurance whatever (at a bank)

14. Property Manager for a Real Estate Firm (2 actually - one in Beaumont and

one in Dallas)

15. Bookkeeper/Business office (Ho-hum)

16. Executive Assistant to the President of a Data Processing Firm (Downtown

Dallas was really fun - during the "Dallas" TV show time)

17. MOM - YIPEE

18. PTA President (worst job ever!)

19. Home Room Mom (for two children - wild!)

20. Asst. Coach (soccer team - 1 yr.)

21. Sewer of costumes (Halloween)

22. Volunteer/Committee head for fundraisers in community (Wifely duty)

23. Bible Study leader

24. Sunday School Preschool Teacher/Class Leader

25. Church Yard Maintenance (Corralled the boys to help serve)

26. Children's Choir costume maker

27. Legal Secretary (interesting job)

28. Preschool/Children's Ministry Coordinator (Kids say the darnedest things!)

29. Asst. to the Minister of Education

30. International Flight Attendant (LOVED TO TRAVEL)

31. Author (Book for flight attendants)

32. Painter (our homes)

34. GRANDMOTHER (BEST JOB EVER!)

35. Housekeeper (sucks!)

36. Cook (sucks worse!)

37. Ironing Queen (worst sucks ever!)

38. Listener and encourager

39. Household Shopper (HATE the other kind - no kidding!)

40. Best Friend

41. Blogger

These are just some of the ones I could think of. There are probably many, many more I can't even remember. With all these jobs/activities/responsibilities, how in the world could any of us really be good at any ONE of them? We are one big balancing act! I don't work outside the home, yet I don't consider myself retired. I have much to do.

It made me think about our Lord. Scripture tells me that our Lord is the Alpha and the Omega. He was always and always will be. He never stops, never ends, never retires. He never leaves us, never gives up on us, never retires from us, and has NEVER said we are to retire from Him or His work! So why do so many of us think as we move on into the later years of our lives that we have "done" our time and we can "retire," let another have a turn?

God calls us to a "lifetime" of relationship with Him. Relationships don't retire, they don't stop "doing" or "being" or "producing" or "stop". Relationships love and serve each other. God calls us to a lifetime of service to Himself. A lifetime of living that glorifies Him in every way, in everything we do and are. So in all my "jobs", whatever that may be at this time of my life, (including my blogging), it is my "job", out of great love, appreciation and honor that I glorify my Lord in all things said and done.

Today, I am thankful for the opportunities God has given me to work for Him as I have worked for others in my lifetime. It was and is, in these opportunities, I have had the honor and opportunity to bring honor and glory to Him in all things.

My challenge today...how in the world will I bring Him honor while I clean these commodes? (Surely HE will figure out a way!)

LEGACIES

I guess it's a guy thing. It must be...they have this thing that a little boy can NEVER have too many Legos. Huston just turned 5 and has begun collecting Lego sets. Jimmy and I gave him the Toy Story train set for his birthday. Then, he earned a "prize" from Lovey (me) for doing something good (I can't really remember what it was that it was so good for a $20 lego set). And now, he has combined all his small lego pieces to make an assortment of things he loves to play with.

Jimmy bought season tickets to Baylor's home games. Huston loves to go to the games so he can eat popcorn and see the bears (he could really care less about the game!). The first game is coming up on September 4th. (Jimmy has already asked permission for a boy trip - guess he felt he needed to since it's our 39th anniversary.) Huston is really pumped and decided he needed to show just how excited he really is - to be sure and snag a seat and transportation for the big day. We received a text from Clark today with a picture of Huston's rendition of the upcoming festivities. As you can see....he's ready to GO - SIC 'EM BEARS!

Isn't it fun to be a part of a university's alumni? To feel so excited to be on campus, remembering those fun times with friends and family, those years you spent there? Isn't it fun to bring your children back with you and tell the stories of where you met your wife, hung out with friends or did some mischief? I'm sure Jimmy and Clark will both have those moments as Huston grows and they get to share their fun memories with him. I'm praying Huston and Emery will want to continue their education at Baylor and become a part of this legacy too.)

Legacies are wonderful. In fact, our family has a number of bricks bought that now lay in the Burleson Quadrangle with Jimmy, Clark, Alix, Graham and Whitney's names on them, along with Jimmy's dad's, aunt, uncle, and cousin's. This legacy of Allen family bricks proclaim a history of men and women who proudly and lovingly walked the halls, lived in housing and worshiped in Chapel at this wonderful institution. This legacy is one we hope future generations will be added.

But the greatest legacy of all, is that our name be placed in God's book of life. Our name be known to the Father as belonging to Him forever. A legacy to be passed down from generation to generation. Though we are born into a family who are God's, this does not guarantee we will be a part of that legacy. It is our personal choice, to accept the offer of unconditional love and forgiveness by the blood of our Lord Jesus that we become adopted children of God and a part of His family and the legacy of believers.

So, what legacy do I want to leave my children? I want them to always know and remember; I am a believer of the gospel of Jesus Christ. It was only by His personal choice that His blood was shed and He became the sacrificial lamb for the redemption of my sins. It is only by my complete reliance on His power for all things that I can do anything. It is by the power of His Holy Spirit that dwells within me that I can know Him personally and stand firm in my faith, making me a part of His family, His legacy.

So today, I am thankful for the legacy of my family at Baylor University. Thankful for their example of loyalty and pride in this fine institution. It is this example that reminds me of the loyalty, faithfulness, and devotion God expects from me each and every day because He has been loyal, faithful and devoted in His love for me first.

Hmmmmm...I wonder if I can make ballet shoes out of legos? Wonder if Emery will take up ballet like her Lovey? Kind of hard to pass along a legacy of love for ballet with a family of all men!!!!! PLEEEEEEEEEEEASE EMERY!

WALK LIKE A MAN

An old high school friend found out he has cancer. Yes...the dreaded C-A-N-C-E-R word. Apparently he was given a choice in treatment and chose surgery. However, his doctor told him to loose, what is it Jimmy, 20 lbs, before surgery? 20 LBS? MAN!!!! For some people...that doesn't seem much....for ME...MUCHO! In fact, for me.....only HALF MUCHO!

Jimmy says he's trying for 42 miles at six miles per day. My average is 3 miles, 5 Xs per week. And believe me...I take off the other two days! But hey...he is a GUY! Why is it that guys can loose weight easier than women? They can cut out just a little food and WHAM! Pounds gone! They walk or bike a little and WHAM! Pounds are gone! They eat SNICKERS for lunch and WHAM! Pounds are gone! They kiss babies and WHAM! Pounds are gone...(well I guess that's a little exaggeration but it seems like it's true.) For us women...we look at a cupcake and WHAM! 25 pounds are ON! We SMELL ice cream (my favorite!) and WHAM! An extra 50 pounds! Do men know how HARD it is for women our age to loose? Add a little medication to our system and WHAM! There you go again.

It seems like weight is one of those constant battles most women over a certain age battle day in and day out. It is a way of life that one must keep in order to retain the standard of weight designed for the size of body she has. At 5'2", my weight goal is much different than that of another women of 5'11" or even 5'5". Yet We women obsess over those pounds. Today's society make us believe we must look like an anorexic 12 year old in order to be acceptable in the world today. I don' t know about you, but my Jimmy and I had dinner with out-of-town friends and their "11 and a HALF" (we HAD to note the HALF age!) year old and I REEEEEEALY don't want to look like THAT again! I've been trying to push those memories out of my mind for YEARS! Yet that is the standard the world is leaning! Are we in the Peter Pan fantasy world?

Yet, the Bible tells us our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. If I think of that, I can REEEEEALY get depressed. How well do I keep this body of mine? Not JUST physically, but mentally and spiritually? I'm working on the physical, but mentally and spiritually must come with more than a physical workout. It takes more time, constant reflection and "walking" with God each day, ALL day.

Keeping a well body is not easy. We are men who love sin. Most people would object that phrase and even take offense. But we do! Sin is FUN! I know...we really don't want to admit it, but we like our own way, we like the mischief, the rebellion, the doing things OUR way, the lack of forgiveness when others are in the wrong and so on and so on. This is the "fun" we revel in and don't want to give it up. Yet it is the very thing that keeps us from having that perfect body, that perfect temple for God. The temple that needs cleaning of the debris and waste that clutters and spoils the temple of God's Holy Spirit.

Today, I am thankful for my alarm clock. Ha! Do you wonder why I am thankful for such a random thing? Well, it gets me up and out at around 6:00 am to walk. I am thankful because I can't do it on my own. I am but a sinner and can do nothing on my own. It helps me make my physical body healthier so the spiritual body may be pleasing and more like the one my Father created for His dwelling. It helps me "get moving" so that I may become a temple of God's holy Spirit, pleasing and more alike in His image, He created me to be. It is the time I am able to praise Him as I build physical strength, and learn as I pray and build spiritual strength.

Are you spending the time today in things that will make you more into His image? Make you a pleasing temple to Him, a pleasing time you can go to praise Him and spend intimate time with Him?

Now, Jimmy S., when you walk, I bet you don't have that wonderful music of praise I have on my iPod Shuffle! I could let you borrow it. Maybe we could walk together...You gonna let a girl beat you?