tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27120799646297029992024-03-05T20:23:09.212-08:00Wisteria and RosesDebbie in CA : )http://www.blogger.com/profile/07473719745707917057noreply@blogger.comBlogger451125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2712079964629702999.post-66940935580328206302014-03-17T11:02:00.000-07:002014-03-17T11:02:03.563-07:00Joy Within<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
A new day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A new
journal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My previous journal sported a
brown cover with a solitary lighthouse gracing the cover – a picture of
loneliness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I frowned a bit each time I
reached for the repository of my inner thoughts and ideas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sadly, I judged the book by its cover.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I judged it harshly. I was more than pleased to fill the final page and set it aside for something different.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Today I begin a new journal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This journal quips, “Joy Within” across a flower-bedecked cover.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Flowers, joy, color . . . “Whatever is
lovely, think on these things”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These
things of beauty delight me and bring a smile to my face each time I see the
journal’s cheerful, or should I say joyful, cover.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s a small thing to note, but worth
noting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For, joy lies in small and unexpected
places, in lowly places, in humble places.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I welcome any sense of joy these days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The world news reeks of sorrow, war, imperial
pressure, and defeat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This Lenten path
we call life wends through the Valley of the Shadow of Death . . . but
wait!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Death has been defeated!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know that full well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I cannot forget that the victory has been won
for tomorrow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I live in a warring today,
but I am destined for a peaceful place for all of my tomorrows throughout eternity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The lonely lighthouse on a brown journal will
be replaced with an abundance of flowers and joy within.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A smile creeps ‘cross my face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am surprised to be smiling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I set out to fill the journal and find joy
within.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
* * * </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Good morning,” chirps the first to ascend the stairs to
greet me; following with another morning greeting, “What does your day hold?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Joy, I hope,” I respond brightly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I hope I am surprised by joy.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
* * * </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Of late, world issues, social pressures, and commonplace
worries crowd into our daily arena with To Do Lists and expectations that
trample the humble things beneath trudging feet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Joy resides in the dust – choked.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Our family has bowed in prayer regularly for those oppressed
in Ukraine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have watched anxiously for God’s
fingerprints amidst the muscle flexes of bullies and the wagging jaws of
man.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have wept as I pleaded for peace,
respect, and freedom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At times, I
wondered if God has heard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And then . .
. SURPRISE!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>JOY!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Natalie forwarded this photo of peaceful
protesters kneeling in prayer as they endure humiliation through invasion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTuSoQQwwP-gQjU4nMR325d16-cpCPu_fkwYaZWA12wSTqmhDNZko3cg3Z0tThHDA2YaGbBkvA_5rE5Npf_IIcHBUw0QXPEZ2JYQQ92-iPYFMoAPnTueK-pjNH6Yr_ubt7xPmpJpAHCFk/s1600/prayerin+Maidan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTuSoQQwwP-gQjU4nMR325d16-cpCPu_fkwYaZWA12wSTqmhDNZko3cg3Z0tThHDA2YaGbBkvA_5rE5Npf_IIcHBUw0QXPEZ2JYQQ92-iPYFMoAPnTueK-pjNH6Yr_ubt7xPmpJpAHCFk/s1600/prayerin+Maidan.jpg" height="298" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A nation once ruled by Atheism has knelt in
prayer in the main square of their endangered country as the whole world looks on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A nation once ruled by an iron fist behind an
iron curtain has chosen to kneel as God’s child, trusting Him for the
outcome.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Surely He has heard.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="color: blue;">God blesses those who are humble,</span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="color: blue;">for they will inherit the whole earth.</span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Matthew 5:5 NLT</span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
My worries and anxieties melt when I kneel down and pray
with these faithful Ukrainian sisters and brothers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I pray for peace alone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My thoughts and fears about “right,” “wrong,”
“precedent,” and “war” have buried my joy in the dust beneath pacing feet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My prayers for peace bring me down to a
humble place where joy lives. I scoop it up hungrily. I am starved for joy. I am empty and He fills me.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Instead of filling with expectations, </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
the joy-filled expect
nothing – and are filled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
This
breath!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This oak tree!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This daisy!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This world!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
This sky!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These people!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This place!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> </i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">This day!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Surprise!</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
C. S. Lewis said he was “surprised by joy.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Perhaps there is no way to discover joy but
as surprise?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">~~ Ann Voskamp ~~</span></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>One Thousand Gifts Devotional</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
* * *</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So, what does my day hold, you may ask?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Peace and prayer and lots of joy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will be turning away from the global eye and
the booming internet voice; I will be kneeling and resting in the quiet of
God’s palm – right here, right now, this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I will kneel often and rise up with a fair dusting of joy to be found
right here on earth this very day amidst the cries of war and the shouts for
freedom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For, I have found joy within. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue;"><i>This is the day that the Lord hath made, </i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue;"><i>I will rejoice and be glad
in it.<span> </span></i></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Psalm 118:24</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Debbie in CA : )http://www.blogger.com/profile/07473719745707917057noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2712079964629702999.post-68946379795772399212014-03-16T17:06:00.000-07:002014-03-16T17:06:28.664-07:00Sunday Wonder<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXQMPGSrS5T5vDXiPUgDazOA_AMI6ia4d-OIZ6bS2i9E1kXLW3zqSBhSbmELg8_x6dn5vdB90m_D_CYbW3xI0_CXRXxq6xf_mahhzwtGWvxmyyiZLuAtvqcKLy1o4m6-20Df3xdJfvF1U/s1600/fishin'.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXQMPGSrS5T5vDXiPUgDazOA_AMI6ia4d-OIZ6bS2i9E1kXLW3zqSBhSbmELg8_x6dn5vdB90m_D_CYbW3xI0_CXRXxq6xf_mahhzwtGWvxmyyiZLuAtvqcKLy1o4m6-20Df3xdJfvF1U/s1600/fishin'.jpg" height="375" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Made me stop and wonder . . . and then smile.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy Sunday!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Debbie in CA : )http://www.blogger.com/profile/07473719745707917057noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2712079964629702999.post-76986189859361989742014-03-15T13:26:00.000-07:002014-03-15T13:26:55.161-07:00The Gift of Internet Silence<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7XDgdc339X1B6J0hF0nSYoCbH5X-HSxBBoQ2M31HNbI_8QcvBe2cK9jlhtDz4Fh4333qNiv37seK7TVxqGkRUsFYgqAVsaz72KwPRmf4P3v1rcPZGcNNomRjxNG6p3kzoiZtPO3LR8i0/s1600/bestill.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7XDgdc339X1B6J0hF0nSYoCbH5X-HSxBBoQ2M31HNbI_8QcvBe2cK9jlhtDz4Fh4333qNiv37seK7TVxqGkRUsFYgqAVsaz72KwPRmf4P3v1rcPZGcNNomRjxNG6p3kzoiZtPO3LR8i0/s1600/bestill.jpeg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
The sun shines brightly, calling, “Come!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Play with me!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I turn around and survey the landscape (by
which I mean, housescape) a-jumble in “must dos” and “should dos” and I resolve
to dig deeper for the tenacity needed to stick to “the plan.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>But,
alas, I am human and prone to focus on the wrong things even with the best of
motives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It just seems wrong to waste a perfectly
sunny day when I know that rain will arrive next week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thus, I give you the gift of silence from
this bloggy little place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am away at play in my garden or in my
kitchen or in my Tiki room (jumping on a trampoline).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you should happen to be in my vicinity,
please stop in and play.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My silence upon
this page echoes loudly with laughter in life beyond the page.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> And since our life is held firmly and safely in the palm of God, I have no need to fret or worry or push. I shall relax, be still, and</span> send you most joyful wishes as I embark on a
weekend of FUN and light and internet silence. EnJOY the weekend!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Debbie in CA : )http://www.blogger.com/profile/07473719745707917057noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2712079964629702999.post-33219002444961075732014-03-13T21:22:00.000-07:002014-03-13T22:16:39.954-07:00Dining Caravanserai Style<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What’s for dinner,” he asked casually as we finished up our
luncheon.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What?” I managed to reply without extreme exasperation.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Dinner?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What are you
planning?” all innocence displayed.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I don’t know . . . *sigh* . . . I will just look into the
cave of wonders and find something fantastic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We’ll have adventure for dinner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It will be fun.” I left it at that, with only the faintest breath of
sarcasm.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As the dining hour approached I did, indeed, set out in
search of something full of wonder and nutrition to lay upon the table as we
gathered at day’s end.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hmmmmm . . . I
scoured the fridge:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>quart of broth,
assorted veggies, an abundance of eggs, a bit of mayo (my own spicy concoction),
sour cream . . . hmmmmm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Minneolas rolled
around the counter begging to be noticed in their vibrant orange-y peels.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Onward to the pantry:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>a large golden portion of couscous shone
brightly amongst the labor-intensive beans and such – no time for soaking and
boiling and waiting – couscous it is, then!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I bundled the bits and pieces of produce and larder stock
onto the counter like an ancient mosaic artist ready to begin to craft a gift
from the broken pieces and fragments.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
rifled around in my spice cupboard pulling out cumin and coriander, garlic and
garam masala.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I plundered the citrus
basket for a lime or two – nearly too far gone, but still fragrant and
pliable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I poured and portioned, stirred
and seasoned, filling the house with the earthy fragrance of a spice road
caravanserai – those roadside inns of olden days inviting men to dismount
camels, water and feed the beasts, then turn into the inn to find nourishment
and rest for himself at day’s end.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A
fitting place to serve a meal wrought from my culinary cave of wonders.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The cobalt-patterned bowls began filling with jewel-toned
veggies and creamy sauces for drizzling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The fragrant couscous soaked up the lime- and garlic-laced broth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The abundance of eggs from our diligent hens
became half-moons hard-cooked and filled with fluffed and spiced yolk
creams.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A bit of Worcestershire, a hint
of ginger, a zest of lime – ordinary no more!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The tangerine-skinned citrus over flowed the dish and spilled
sticky-sweet nectar, daring us all to find room upon our already-laden plates
for just one taste more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We carried the feast-filled receptacles to a table laid with
numerous glinting candles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We prayed; we
lifted weary arms and forked down the first mouthfuls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It had been a long and busy day with much
labor in it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some studied, some cleaned
closets; some laundered, some thought deeply for an answer not to be found just
yet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We all came to the table hungry for
food, for rest, for the touch that says, “You are among family, and we are
glad.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Slowly, laughter began to tinkle; words grew more rapid with
lightness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The heaviness of the day
passed with each sip and bite.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Compliments flew my way and I smiled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The cave of wonders had not failed me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As the candles burned low and the remaining morsels
vanished, I signaled for the surprise ending to this exotic meal:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Strawberry-rosewater-almond ice cream that graced
tiny dishes, far too rich for major scooping.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Inspired on my last trip to Disney’s Epcot, where Elizabeth and I
enjoyed a lavish treat of perfumed ice creams in Morocco,
I fired up my ice cream maker and let my imagination run wild.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It ran and played in a most delicious
fashion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Success never tasted so sweet.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
All too soon the candles sputtered and the diners departed
to close down their day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I watched them
go in satisfied fullness, knowing that soon they will again be weary and
hungry, and I will once again dig deep into that cave of wonders I lovingly
stock with odd bits of taste and spice alongside the staples known throughout
the world since that very first meal in Eden.
We will pass this way again, but never in the exact same step.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The gift we shared tonight will never happen
again in just this way. I wash the last dish, pondering this meal, storing its
recipe in my heart:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Welcome the weary
ones with fragrance and sweetness that draws them in from across the vast
desert of the daily walk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Feed them and
entreat them to rest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dine Caravanserai
style in this oasis of life – soothe each hunger pang in our home, sweet, home.
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Repeat as often as needed, or once a day
(whichever comes first).</div>
Debbie in CA : )http://www.blogger.com/profile/07473719745707917057noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2712079964629702999.post-23833125130810721282014-03-12T10:52:00.001-07:002014-03-12T10:52:59.320-07:00Choosing Joy<div style="margin-left: 40px;">
<em>"...believe that this way of living,
this focus on the present, the daily, the tangible, this intense
concentration not on the news headlines but on the flowers growing in
your own garden, the children growing in your own home, this way of
living has the potential to open up the heavens, to yield a glittering
handful of diamonds where a second ago there was coal. This way of
living and noticing and building and crafting can crack through the
movie sets and soundtracks that keep us waiting for our own life stories
to begin, and set us free to observe the lives we have been creating
all along without ever realizing it. I don’t want to wait anymore. </em></div>
<div id="yui_3_10_1_1_1394645917574_1320" style="margin-left: 40px;">
<em id="yui_3_10_1_1_1394645917574_1322">I choose to believe that there is nothing more sacred or profound than this day.
I choose to believe that there may be a thousand big moments embedded
in this day, waiting to be discovered like tiny shards of gold.
The big moments are the daily, tiny moments of courage and forgiveness
and hope that we grab on to and extend to one another. That’s the drama
of life, swirling all around us, and generally I don’t even see it,
because I’m too busy waiting to become whatever it is I think I am about
to become. The big moments are in every hour, every conversation, every
meal, every meeting."</em></div>
<div id="yui_3_10_1_1_1394645917574_1320" style="margin-left: 40px;">
<br /></div>
<div id="yui_3_10_1_1_1394645917574_1320" style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><em id="yui_3_10_1_1_1394645917574_1322">~~ Shauna Niequiest's ~~ </em></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_10_1_1_1394645917574_1320" style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><em id="yui_3_10_1_1_1394645917574_1322"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0310329302/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0310329302&linkCode=as2&tag=walslolivwil-20" id="yui_3_10_1_1_1394645917574_1481" target="_blank">Cold Tangerines: Celebrating the Extraordinary Nature of Everyday Life</a></em></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_10_1_1_1394645917574_1320" style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div id="yui_3_10_1_1_1394645917574_1320" style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div id="yui_3_10_1_1_1394645917574_1320" style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;">
Today I am off on an adventure wrapped in ordinariness and daily doings, like dropping a friend off at the airport, visiting Costco, coming home to tea and bookclub<em id="yui_3_10_1_1_1394645917574_1322">. </em>My travels won't make the news, nor change the course of mankind's grind, but I will breathe in and out the most wonderful freshness and joy, <i>if I so choose.</i></div>
<div id="yui_3_10_1_1_1394645917574_1320" style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div id="yui_3_10_1_1_1394645917574_1320" style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: center;">
<i> </i><em id="yui_3_10_1_1_1394645917574_1322"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">graphic shared by from</span></em><em id="yui_3_10_1_1_1394645917574_1322"></em><span style="font-weight: normal;"><i><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span itemprop="name"><em> </em>Sue Fitzmaurice, Author on FB</span></span></i></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_10_1_1_1394645917574_1320" style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><i><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span itemprop="name"><br /></span></span></i></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_10_1_1_1394645917574_1320" style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><i><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span itemprop="name"><br /></span></span></i></span></div>
Debbie in CA : )http://www.blogger.com/profile/07473719745707917057noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2712079964629702999.post-39422693706599431462014-03-11T08:40:00.003-07:002014-03-11T08:41:31.987-07:00Tip for Today<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsHu663rbkJAxb7X5hv2RK0OFwA3apudl-hKXbsG0ojJ8KYhWSd7ocgOrwElD0wZvZ99MqSpzTBBsWjGP-P_XpOdPEyG4YZfEwOPg7YVPhCVJWazrHdnAomAa0qvTM6ifa49A_PFZNepM/s1600/tiara.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsHu663rbkJAxb7X5hv2RK0OFwA3apudl-hKXbsG0ojJ8KYhWSd7ocgOrwElD0wZvZ99MqSpzTBBsWjGP-P_XpOdPEyG4YZfEwOPg7YVPhCVJWazrHdnAomAa0qvTM6ifa49A_PFZNepM/s1600/tiara.png" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Have tiara, will shine!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Happy Tuesday! </span></div>
<br />Debbie in CA : )http://www.blogger.com/profile/07473719745707917057noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2712079964629702999.post-29147590668895205992014-03-10T11:44:00.001-07:002014-03-10T11:45:01.015-07:00Sifting Through Cinnamon in Search of a Lost HourQuick! Administer cinnamon toast! I'm fading!!<br />
<br />
I awoke this morning and discovered that an hour had been stolen clean out from under my nose! Yes, I "saw" that the clocks had been changed yesterday (Saturday night, in fact, by my zealous husband), but I didn't "feel" the loss until this morning when I awoke an hour behind schedule with an hour loss on top of it. Eeeek! <br />
<br />
I padded downstairs to put on the kettle and discovered I had forgotten to run last night's dinner dishes, in addition to noticing that the steamer used for broccoli prep had been missed on the clean-up sweep the previous eve. (By notice, I mean, with my nose -- Ick!)<br />
<br />
What's a girl to do in such a situation? Pray for a miracle to turn back time and tidy all in one gesture? Cry and hope somebody takes pity on you? Brew a pot-of-tea-for-one and make some cinnamon toast? How 'bout all three? Okay, the praying for a miracle part seemed like a futile effort, since I didn't want to repeat the time change scenario. Fair enough. Crying, even in the silver-screen fashion of gently flowing glamorous orbs of crystalline sorrow seemed silly since every other person in this house is asleep or faking sleep, save my husband who is chirpy as ever in the morning, popping in and out the door doing the morning "chores" of letting out chickens and the cat and such. Since crying would stuff me up and dilute what little surface beauty I awoke with, I opt to suck it up and hit the cinnamon toast hard!<br />
<br />
One of my sweetest childhood memories involves cinnamon toast -- that slightly sweet treat delivered on a bed tray to the infirm. It rarely happened, but when it did -- oh my! What delight! Much later in life, following the delivery of a baby (number five), I developed some sort of "fever sickness" and writhed in bed for many days. My friend/nurse came to the rescue and watched my four littles + littlest (baby) while I recovered. I remember little of that week, save for a distinct moment when a tearful Elizabeth came in to my darkened room with a tray of tea and cinnamon toast. "Here Mommy, please eat this and feel better," she sobbed. I ate, tasting the cinnamon like a fire of life, a healing fire. I recovered in due time, but my spirit lifted measurable with the first tiny nibble of c-toast.<br />
<br />
Daily I intake a spoonful of a cinnamon-honey-turmeric-ginger concoction I store in a pooh-bear-approved honey-pot shaped jar. The spicy, silky, yummy flavor slips down easy and delights my body and mind. Sometimes I spread it on toast or flavor a cuppa tea with the jewel-toned elixir, but today -- with all its off-kilter change-o-mania -- I went straight for the toast, butter (LOTS), and cinnamon/sugar shaker. A pot o' tea sidled alongside to enable me to nibble, sip, repeat when necessary.<br />
<br />
Here I sit at the keyboard, drumming out words tinged with humor: clear proof of the amazing healing properties of cinnamon toast. If this day doesn't improve, I plan to serve cinnamon toast at lunch and, if necessary, cinnamon toast at dinner. I will not be beaten by this time-change villain. If it won't give me back that hour I will simply celebrate cinnamon-ily until I just don't care a fig for that lost hour. Did I just say "fig"? Sweet, gushy, yummy, spread-on-toast fig? I wonder how that would taste, with just a hint of cinnamon?<br />
<br />
Happy Monday (what's left of it, that is)! Debbie in CA : )http://www.blogger.com/profile/07473719745707917057noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2712079964629702999.post-18588996930758802912014-03-09T15:51:00.003-07:002014-03-09T16:01:10.846-07:00Sunday Wonder<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH5aElGYqW036yn9Ygy2Ti-RuYT9Oqgfc7ZR8D2L8oI4hh26psEiSf9zGWj1p9dkirQy57qFS_vQ5SaUzt-ZK8rIW9jaPLAP_ZU4wrATG34KfckBlf7pN37QqioOP_HMAVu5ej3A-P0KQ/s1600/mary+englebreit+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH5aElGYqW036yn9Ygy2Ti-RuYT9Oqgfc7ZR8D2L8oI4hh26psEiSf9zGWj1p9dkirQy57qFS_vQ5SaUzt-ZK8rIW9jaPLAP_ZU4wrATG34KfckBlf7pN37QqioOP_HMAVu5ej3A-P0KQ/s1600/mary+englebreit+pic.jpg" height="307" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue;"><i>This is the day which the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> hath made; </i></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue;"><i>I will rejoice and be glad in it.</i></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Psalm 118:24</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="color: black;">* * * * * </span></b></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">Where on earth did joy come from?</span></span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">It didn't.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">It came from heaven.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="color: black;">~~ Sherwood Wirt ~~</span></span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i><span style="color: black;">The God Who Smiles </span></i></span> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span> </span><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
Debbie in CA : )http://www.blogger.com/profile/07473719745707917057noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2712079964629702999.post-34680353246754449322014-03-07T13:36:00.000-08:002014-03-07T13:36:44.004-08:00A Closed Door. An Open Window.<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
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<div class="MsoNormal">
For the first time in many weeks I omitted a particular plea
from my prayers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I haven’t given up in
despair; rather, I have heard the answer:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And it is no.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
“No,” He said.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A flood followed the simple two-letter utterance – like a
flood gushing through a cleft rent by a recent quake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A persistent rumble.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A daily fixation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An unending string of wondering.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And then, “Crack!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whoosh!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The water flows.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tears:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>of disappointment, of surprise, of relief, of
hope . . . <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tears wash away the debris.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After the flood, the mopping up commences.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And then I look around, assess the damage, tabulate
the cost, and (last-but-not-least) accept the gift – the gift of knowing where
I stand, even if I find myself behind a locked door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For, every “no” contains the seeds of a “yes”
to something else in a tomorrow awaiting its chance to become my today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each closed door provokes a pause in my journey, but the
journey does not end behind this sealed venue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>"Whenever God
closes a door, somewhere He opens a window."</i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt;">~~</span></i><span style="font-size: 10.0pt;"> Reverend Mother from <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Sound of Music
</i>~~</span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<i>
</i><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>"When one door
of happiness closes, another opens; </i></div>
<i>
</i><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>but often we look so
long at the closed door </i></div>
<i>
</i><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>that we do not see
the one which has opened for us."</i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 10.0pt;">~~ Helen Keller ~~</span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<i>
</i><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>"When God shuts
a door, He opens a window."</i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
~~ Jewish Proverb ~~</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i><span class="textgen-7-16">And they that went in, </span></i></div>
<i>
</i><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i><span class="textgen-7-16">went in male and female of all flesh, </span></i></div>
<i>
</i><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i><span class="textgen-7-16">as God had commanded him:</span></i></div>
<i>
</i><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i><span class="textgen-7-16"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and the </span><span class="small-caps"><span style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span></span><span class="textgen-7-16"> shut him in.</span></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span class="textgen-7-16">~~ Genesis </span><span class="textgen-7-16">7:16</span><span class="textgen-7-16"> ~~</span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Now when <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Daniel</span> knew that the writing was
signed, he went into his house; </i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>and his <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">window</span>s
being <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">open</span> in his chamber toward
Jerusalem, </i></div>
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<i>he kneeled upon his
knees three times a day, </i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, </i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>as he did
aforetime.</i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
~~ Daniel 6:10 ~~</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Today I sit beside an open window next to a closed door,
gazing at a cornflower-blue sky.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
most recent storm passed over us with thunder and lightening and water, water, water
everywhere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For me, the stormy nights
bring the greatest challenge. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I find it
hard to lie down and rest during a tempest, be it out there, in here, or in a
teapot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“How much longer?” I have been
known to wail at each passing peal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“How
much more must I endure?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If only I knew
how long it was going to last!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
And then . . .
s-i-l-e-n-c-e . . . it is done . . . the storm has passed.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After a weather episode of wind or rain or heavy snow, I
immediately enjoy the peace; but soon, I survey the landscape for damage and
direction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Downed trees, flooded flower
beds, leaking fissures . . .<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Grab a
-------- and let’s get to work!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As we
work, side-by-side with loved ones or as a solo instrument, the eyes wander to
and fro finding gifts amongst the grit.</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“Oh look, how
beautiful that snow looks as it clings to those branches!”</i></div>
<i>
</i><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<i>
</i><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“Well, we needed to
get rid of that dead branch for some time; </i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>guess the storm took care of it for
us.”</i></div>
<i>
</i><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<i>
</i><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>“Hey, look what I
just found over here!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I misplaced this
ages ago!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well, what do you know!”</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In and among the damage and the gifts lies true loss and
often pain; but seeds of hope carpet that barrenness in due time . . . if only I
wait and watch with hopeful eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the
waiting space I can sit by the open window and pine, or I can live bathed in
the streaming sunlight, breathing in the fresh breeze, waving to passersby as
their journey continues unabated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some
may stop in for a cuppa and a chat, entertaining me with tales and exploits as
they chase dreams and dodge arrows.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Others hurry by at a <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>pace that affords
a mere wave.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most scurry by my window, unaware
of me at all, hidden in a blind hurry to make the next appointment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I see myself in their eyes, I know their
anxious scuffle all too well, and I wonder when I will once again mount up and
ride out toward a new adventure or battle or sunset.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">For today, I sit contentedly by a window flung wide to
the fresh breeze of promise blowing the gift of hope my way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(And I giggle as I imagine God breathing a
sigh of relief now that my barrage of pleading has ended with a smile for me and
some peace and quiet for Him . . . for today, anyway.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love you, Abba Father.</span>Debbie in CA : )http://www.blogger.com/profile/07473719745707917057noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2712079964629702999.post-74758592380955057042014-03-06T08:47:00.000-08:002014-03-06T08:47:00.041-08:00I'm Away Playing at Life Today<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<i>LIFE</i>
<br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Life is an opportunity, benefit from
it.</i></div>
<i>
</i><br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Life is beauty, admire it.</i></div>
<i>
</i><br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Life is bliss, taste it.</i></div>
<i>
</i><br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Life is a dream, realize it.</i></div>
<i>
</i><br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Life is a challenge, meet it.</i></div>
<i>
</i><br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Life is a duty, complete it.</i></div>
<i>
</i><br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Life is a game, play it.</i></div>
<i>
</i><br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Life is costly, care for it.</i></div>
<i>
</i><br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Life is wealth, keep it.</i></div>
<i>
</i><br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Life is love, enjoy it.</i></div>
<i>
</i><br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Life is mystery, know it.</i></div>
<i>
</i><br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Life is a promise, fulfill it.</i></div>
<i>
</i><br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Life is sorrow, overcome it.</i></div>
<i>
</i><br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Life is a song, sing it.</i></div>
<i>
</i><br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Life is a struggle, accept it.</i></div>
<i>
</i><br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Life is tragedy, confront it.</i></div>
<i>
</i><br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Life is an adventure, dare it.</i></div>
<i>
</i><br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Life is luck, make it.</i></div>
<i>
</i><br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Life is too precious, do not destroy
it.</i></div>
<i>
</i><br />
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Life is life, fight for it.</i></div>
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
~~ Mother Teresa ~~</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Debbie in CA : )http://www.blogger.com/profile/07473719745707917057noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2712079964629702999.post-64838274684209707912014-03-05T11:48:00.000-08:002014-03-05T11:51:14.980-08:00Internut Syndrome<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One day back as a “blogger” – JUST ONE – and I’m already
frustrated!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I forgot that I have
internet problems:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>connection problems,
time problems, discipline problems . . .<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I rolled out of bed this morning <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>with a cloak of tiredness dragging me
down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Last night, I did “one quick
check” before hopping into bed and . . . well, you know how that goes: <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">A
comment!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An email!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll just quickly read it and reply, and then
off to bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Oh, I almost forgot to opt
out of that site.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hey, it’s morning in </i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Ukraine</i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">; I wonder what’s going on? </i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And on and on it goes until I am way past
bedtime, overloaded with cognitive “junk food,” and smarting with a bit of back
pain from sitting too long at a makeshift station designed for “quick” checking
the internet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yep!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have all the
symptoms of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Internut Syndrome</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When I rose without shining this morning, I discovered my internet
connection was down . . . </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
AGAIN . . . grumble.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Just, great!</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">How am I supposed to
blog? (I did make a commitment, you know.)</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">What if I need to pray
about something specific in </i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Ukraine</i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">?</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">What will ------ think
if I don’t reply to her sweet comment?</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
And then I knew for sure . . . <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Internut Syndrome </i>had taken hold.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I shuffled downstairs in my cute, pink, cableknit sweater
slippers <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">and I didn’t even notice they
were cute</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I dropped leaves into the
tea infuser without remarking the fresh, minty
breeze from our newest favorite:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Immuni-tea.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I murmured a muted
“Good morning” to my daughter as she wrestled with two sunnyside-up eggs; she
murmured back in kind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The teakettle
performed, the tea steeped, while I gathered cup and saucer, hefted the cozied
teapot, and made my way to my favorite chair.</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Plop!</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
*sigh*</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
A gray blankness held me in limbo:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br />
gray sky, gray light, gray day.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I reached down mechanically and scooped up the first book my
hand encountered in the basket beside my chair:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>One Thousand Gifts Devotional, by Ann Voskamp.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I leafed open to the next entry:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Devotion 19 – Awakening Grace</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I poured out the floral-minty morning brew, perfectly
steeped and dancing with fragrance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
lifted my faithful companion teacup (Blue Willow, of course) from its saucer
and caught a steamy whiff of meadow dances, rollicking streams, morning dew,
and flowers waking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I felt my brow
begin to unravel from its tight-knit scrunch as my shoulders started melting into
suppleness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fear of failure had wrapped
me in its grip; pressing expectations had pinned me down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One day blogging and I was a mess!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And then I turned my attention to Ann. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
She began by quoting 1 Thessalonians 5:18:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue;"><i>Give thanks in all circumstances; </i></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><i>for this is God’s will for
you in Christ Jesus.</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
She went on to quote Robert Louis Stevenson:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>The man who forgets to be thankful has fallen asleep in
life.</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yes, yes indeed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
have fallen asleep in life – that’s a primary symptom of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Internut Syndrome</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
virtual eclipses the tangible whilst the unreal pounces and devours my sense of
time . . . the REAL of time.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Another sip of tea.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Another gaze out the window</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Is that a glint of blue?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
I grab a pen and scribble: </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
2146. [Thankful that] the internet is on the blink – my
morning just gained time . . . <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">real </i>time.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
* * * * *</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That tenseness that I shouldered as I came downstairs has
faded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That nutty, nagging voice in my
head has gone silent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe it was just
a dream – a bad dream.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not to worry, for
I am awake now . . . and thankfully so.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<i>
</i><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>[D]are yourself to give thanks . . . </i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>and it’s the setting of
an alarm </i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>and you could wake up to nothing less than your life.</i></div>
<i>
</i><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Giving thanks, this is an awakening – the breath of God upon
the face, close and warm.</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
~~ Ann Voskamp ~~</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">One Thousand Gifts
Devotional</i></div>
Debbie in CA : )http://www.blogger.com/profile/07473719745707917057noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2712079964629702999.post-34043808809865727622014-03-04T11:54:00.000-08:002014-03-04T11:54:10.331-08:00A Quiet Time<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLaFuGudKk1BIZF2rL0ZgT23v2GLxze3zuQGCQ8qD8Lg5VLis1qNZCGvAYvtO7vjUFhpY-lQxoRQhcbEnbElXpqchVfLGVDU_I-hLW6brvsHtRWwIRBYZjvCwkMlVU325e9NwN3nzmeCU/s1600/morningcup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLaFuGudKk1BIZF2rL0ZgT23v2GLxze3zuQGCQ8qD8Lg5VLis1qNZCGvAYvtO7vjUFhpY-lQxoRQhcbEnbElXpqchVfLGVDU_I-hLW6brvsHtRWwIRBYZjvCwkMlVU325e9NwN3nzmeCU/s1600/morningcup.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
I have stood in a
silent place and listened.</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
I have sat in the
shade of a mighty wing and rested.</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
I have danced in a
sweet meadow with no one to see me but God.</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
I have lived quietly
. . .</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
And found it
nourishing, satisfying, and, above all, blessed.</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>* * * * * </b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As a child, I loved those cozy books with glimpses down a
rabbit warren or peeks behind the walls into a mouse house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I pored over each heavily-detailed page
depicting life among a mouse family dressed in period togs, seated by a warm
fire, reading a story to sleepy babes, while sipping bedtime beverages from
floral-sprigged china.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The picture of
bliss:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Home Sweet Home.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
While I love a robust adventure or a romantic saga, a
cottage-cozy tale replete with tasty meals, tufted ottomans (why isn’t it
ottomen?), and a tumbling garden always gets my vote.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have a burgeoning collection of “bedtime
reads” that coddle and comfort before I drift off to sleep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Finding such joy in the quiet spaces of my
day sustains me and breeds contentment.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Once upon a time, I sought, sought, sought fulfillment
through events, acquisitions, and goals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I worked hard at being, doing, and achieving.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The “rewards” flowed steady, but I was often
too tired or overbooked to enjoy the sweet fruits of the sweaty labor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I craved rest but had a hard time scheduling
for it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I “collapsed” now and again,
naming it rest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In due time, I would
drag my still-crumpled and weary body back onto life’s treadmill and plod
along.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Somewhere along life’s path I found tiny moments to steal
away and hide from the taskmaster I called life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I felt guilty as I soaked in a tub without an
instruction book clasped in my damp hands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Guilt whispered harshly when I lay down and cuddled a child in the
shadow of a billowing laundry basket.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>In fact, guilt hissed at me so often and from so many places that I
began to just ignore it like the distant hum of a neighbor’s leaf blower.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It will pass,” I assured myself as I stopped
up my ears with laughter and celebration in a tiny moment spent tickling a
beloved tummy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These random moments of
pure fun or sweet quiet began knitting together to form a shawl of beauty and
warmth to wrap round me as I rambled through the busy days as
wife/mommy/daughter/sister/friend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Little pearls of wisdom and joy threaded through the fabric of my daily
mantle adorning, as well as, strengthening its fiber.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Peace and contentment grew in the shadow of
these loving, nurturing moments woven by and through and around me.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have no idea when I first noticed that I could no longer
hear guilt’s guttural grumble; nor do I wish to retrace my steps to find such
an unwelcome companion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Instead, I greet
each day with a cuppa tea and a quiet time, fresh and ready for joy to meet me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some days I read, others I write, and often I
simply gaze in wonder at the freshly-sprung day and all its blossoming
beauty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One need only pause and look to
find once barren twigs come to life with floral frosting or a simply threaded
web hosting a dewy dressing rivaling a Tiffany display.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Life stores unmatched artistry in the quiet
corners of our life. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We need only open
our eyes as we rest our hands and our mouth. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This
wondrous cape of life and love wraps me up in readiness for whatever I may
encounter as I sojourn on this earth. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I may
keep my shawl closely pulled on those chilly morns, and later pillow it behind
my head on a warm bed of grass beckoning me to cloud gaze. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I used to run through the day chasing bossy To
Do’s and anxious checklists, but now I step softly and listen, for there is so
much to be found in a quiet time.</div>
<span style="color: blue;"><i><span class="text1kgs-19-11"> </span></i></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue;"><i><span class="text1kgs-19-11">And he said, Go forth, and stand upon the mount before
the </span><span class="small-caps"><span style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span></span><span class="text1kgs-19-11">. And, behold, the </span><span class="small-caps"><span style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span></span><span class="text1kgs-19-11">
passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces
the rocks before the </span><span class="small-caps"><span style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span></span><span class="text1kgs-19-11">; but the </span><span class="small-caps"><span style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span></span><span class="text1kgs-19-11"> was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake;
but the </span><span class="small-caps"><span style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span></span><span class="text1kgs-19-12"> was not in the earthquake: And after the earthquake a fire; but the </span><span class="small-caps"><span style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span></span><span class="text1kgs-19-12"> was not in the fire: and after the fire <b>a still small
voice.</b></span></i></span><b><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: blue;"><span class="text1kgs-19-12"> </span></span></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: blue;"><span class="text1kgs-19-12">1 Kings </span><span class="text1kgs-19-12">19:11</span><span class="text1kgs-19-12">-12</span></span></span></div>
<br />
Debbie in CA : )http://www.blogger.com/profile/07473719745707917057noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2712079964629702999.post-72490759697723938522013-11-11T22:04:00.001-08:002013-11-11T22:23:24.785-08:00A Moveable Read<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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Below, please find the first exercise submitted to the Harold B. Pricklepants Society, Scribbler's Edition. We, being a club of readers endeavoring to become better writers as well, have pledged to write a weekly piece for blog publication and the sharing thereof with our friends, family, and readers. Please feel free to comment. Please feel even freer to submit your own piece, notifying our society of your intent to join us as we follow in the inspiring footsteps of Miss Austen, the Misses Bronte, Mr. Lewis, and so many, many more who hopped up to journey down a barely trodden path braved by Moses, and later Chaucer and Shakespeare as we English speakers joined the party. Read, enjoy, live. All are welcome to meet in this wonderful place of words hosted by <a href="http://hbpsociety.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The Harold B. Pricklepants Society</a> . For other readable entries, please visit <a href="http://pursuingajeffersonianeducation.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Elizabeth</a> and <a href="http://fairybookworm.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lydia</a> at their lovely blogs. I would love to link your blog. Just ask. : D</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
* * * * *</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
A Moveable Read </div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Reading came to
me as naturally as breathing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I cannot
really recall a time in my life before the presence of books.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The secure softness of my favorite “blankies”
complimented the cardboard-stiff covers of my beloved <u>The Three Bears</u>
Golden Book.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I begged my parents (and
any one else I met) to read it to me; and, legend has it, by the age of two I
had the entire book memorized word-for-word.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I performed the classic parlor trick of “reading” to astonished
relatives and guests, turning the pages precisely, intoning with just the right
dramatic flair as chairs crashed and porridge cooled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My parents, neither fond of reading, found my
penchant for “reading” odd and a tad bit frightening, yet they indulged me with
books over Barbies and I happily went about the business of teaching myself to
read.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Before entering school, I could write out my entire name –
Debbie Ann Stugelmeyer – and read without assistance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(I have always found it surprising that my
parents bragged far louder about my prowess in spelling “Stugelmeyer,” than
about my ability to read <u>The Cat in the Hat</u> and other Seussian classics.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thus, I entered school eager to discover the
world beyond book-of-the-month clubs and bookmobile visits of my little life.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Each new school I attended (of which I attended several, for
a vagabonding childhood necessitates the changing of schools) had a new library
to be explored; and each corresponding address change had a Public Library to
be experienced.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I eagerly introduced
myself to each resident librarian, asking directions to new gateways of
adventure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I browsed, sampled, and
selected armloads of tales.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some
journeys took me through war-torn lands or disease-infested jungles; others
carried me aloft on the wings of hope found in loving adoptions or romantic happily-ever-afters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I boarded ocean liners bound for Europe,
traveled in jalopies through the Dust Bowl, and most avidly read of prairie
schooners carrying pioneers to new lands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Some books talked of worlds most fantastic, while others shed light on
long-ago times; but, each and every book carried me breathlessly through to The
End, whereupon I scurried back to the library for the next great read on my
list.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What a feast I found at the
library – and all for free!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At home, my little private library continued to grow as
birthday presents and holiday gifts increasingly held bound stories worthy of
being preserved in my library.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dr. Seuss
and the Golden Books moved down a bit to make room for Laura Ingalls and Trina,
along with Katie John, Caddie Woodlawn, and my most favorite heroine:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Robin of <u>The Velvet Room</u>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each pending change of address had me
ensuring that each precious volume made it into a box marked “Debbie’s Books”
and onto the truck by my own locomotion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I took no chances with this precious cargo.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On occasion, I would panic as a tidal wave of
boxes flooded our new residence and my books could not be located.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Where are my books?” I wailed, certain that
they had toppled off the truck as we careened over a set of railroad tracks in
the dark of night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I pictured the box thrown
violently to the ground, torn asunder, spilling its fragile contents into the
path of doom from oncoming cars, wild animals, or gully-washing storms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Along with an ever growing appetite for
books, I nurtured a taste for drama that quickly enveloped my emerging
adolescence.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Panicking did little to
aid in locating the errant box, which always turned up safe and sound amongst
the linens and toys, kitchenware and mementos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Once “Debbie’s Books” had been located, I scurried away to my room (or
my side of the room) and set about unpacking and settling Jane Eyre and Dr
Seuss and all the rest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I would sit back
and sigh with contentment while each binding smiled back at me, “We’re
home.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As I grew, wisdom bade me select a unique and easily
identifiable box to house my library-on-the-move.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A white “Inglenook” wine box served perfectly
to cosset my treasures within its sturdy sides.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>(Wine bottles, like books, require careful handling, I noted as I
marveled at the doubly-reinforced cardboard.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The bright white box color stood out splendidly in a sea of ordinary
brown moving cartons, thus I never again fretted at locating MY box.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once the box had been duly located and
unpacked at the newest destination, I carefully stored it away in my closet for
the next move, which would surely be sooner than hoped for.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Years passed, several more addresses took up residence next
to my name and my cache of treasured books rode safely to each new abode in
their increasingly battered container.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Then along came time to pack for college.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Only essentials followed me to UCLA.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sadly, at 18 years of age, I no longer had
the room for my most constant “childhood friends.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My one-bedroom apartment, to be shared by three
freshmen girls, possessed but a single half-sized bookcase, of which I gained
ownership of one mere shelf.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Sorry Jane
Eyre, Elizabeth Bennet, Scarlett O’Hara, and Mr. Cat in the Hat and friends,”
I apologized, “ You’re not moving to the Big City with me this time.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I drove away with sheets and towels and a
brand-new dictionary rather than my steadfast library buddies, whom I left in
my younger sister’s charge.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Years passed, I graduated with a degree in English, married
a sweet heart of a man, and we eventually bought our First Home (a condo,
actually).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I relieved my father-in-law
of the stuff I had packed away in his shed years back when I moved from the
tiny freshman apartment to a tinier room in a sorority house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then I visited my mom at her newest address
to retrieve what few items she had offered to store for me since I left for
college.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We successfully located a box
of high-school-and-before memorabilia (like my first yo-yo and a packet of
stickers I received as a gift the day my newborn sister arrived home from the
hospital in 1966), some badly-dated LP records, and a stash of heirloom
pillowcases embroidered by my great-grandmother.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sadly, the Inglenook box of library treasures
had vanished during one or another of recent moving events.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I confronted my sister, with a bit more anger than warranted,
regarding the missing library and her lack of stewardship of such prized
possessions left in her care.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She stared
back blankly and said, “Books?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What
books?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Gone . . .” I mouthed in despair, the drama of long ago
still very much alive in me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I left with several boxes but no nostalgic library.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Life trundled on, carrying me along to greet three babies,
a new address, and then two more babies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I gathered many, many books along the way, though they never quite took
the place of my first literary loves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One day, we packed up and moved far away to a larger place
that would house my family of seven plus my mother, whose health required
nursing care.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Boxes and boxes of books
filled the trucks alongside our family belongings marked, “toys,” “kitchen,” and
more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A wave of boxes flooded the large
garage, and soon a second wave of boxes belonging to my mother joined them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As I surveyed and sifted the myriad of moved
materials, attempting to formulate a plan of action (or should I say, attack?),
I espied a rather disheveled white box in the distance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Can it be?” I whispered as I hurtled over
two lifetimes’ worth of accumulation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
pulled the tattered box free, faintly hoping to find the beloved “Inglenook”
label emblazoned on the side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“IT IS!” I
shouted as I tore away what remained of the box top flaps.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have no idea how long I sat on that garage floor,
surrounded by boxes and debris, as I lovingly lifted and gazed on each long-lost
book.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>More than twenty years had passed
since I had seen these editions . . . my books . . . <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>my very first library!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These dear treasures and friends had somehow
slipped into a dark corner of a distant storage cell and languished forgotten
and alone, until now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
*<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>*<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>*<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>*<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>*</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Hey mom,” called my 10-year-old daughter, “Are you out
here?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes,” I sputtered, “Yes, I am!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Come on out here!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want you to meet some folks I knew a long
time ago.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Debbie in CA : )http://www.blogger.com/profile/07473719745707917057noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2712079964629702999.post-79053937810266965912013-02-08T17:25:00.000-08:002013-02-08T17:25:43.470-08:00The Black Forest <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidSnqUZoQz8zMYBqyesoCl110dnsWVk6STl21kMOeGZ8Z3aUT4r7346E2H0liB2v-V21XrHDQLiEG0H27pns-4DXYiDorEef_CeUSX8Y39hGtBBS7BuBCImSJ-2ZkLod8_asEA_ad6Yhc/s1600/chocolatjourney.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidSnqUZoQz8zMYBqyesoCl110dnsWVk6STl21kMOeGZ8Z3aUT4r7346E2H0liB2v-V21XrHDQLiEG0H27pns-4DXYiDorEef_CeUSX8Y39hGtBBS7BuBCImSJ-2ZkLod8_asEA_ad6Yhc/s400/chocolatjourney.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
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</xml><![endif]-->Of late, my kitchen has been shadowed o'er by a strange and deepening darkness . .
. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>of chocolate, that is.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My sunny French décor has taken on a
Grimm-like “Black Forest” air as I arm myself with whisk and spoons wooden for
this journey into dark, darker, and darkest chocolate met by strange, weirder, and
most unusual "sugars."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bold and brave, I hunt for the elusive chocolate treasures
fit for the health-minded dessert-er.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
fudgiest ice cream and the darkest brownies have been found along this pilgrim’s
path.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Truffles lurk around every corner -- and though they <i>improve</i> greatly with age (developing a dark figgy-cherry-red rose-brandy quality of taste and aroma), I am hard-pressed to find a ripening truffle ANYWHERE on the premises! Alas, the truffle gnomes have made off with every last one! (Good thing I only made a small batch.) As I poke and prod all thoughts chocolate, peanut-butter-cup
truffles, black-forest truffles, and looming spectres of devil-dark truffles (hint: chili-pepper) swirl
in the mists of my wandering mind . . . </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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. . . but those will have to wait for another day because today
I set aside the chocolate, jumped countries, and whipped up a batch of Danish bread-and-butter
pickled eggs (made with coconut crystals and cider vinegar – yep, I did
it!).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My sister arrives in just under
two weeks and she LOVES pickled eggs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They will be pronounced “Ready” just as she steps off the plane. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br />
<br />
“Note,” I bellow to my pickled-egg-loving
family, “No one must disturb this crock of eggs until February 21st.” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
(Of course, I may be caught sneaking a taste now and again
in the interest of Culinary Arts and Sciences.)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">; )</span></b><br />
<br />
</div>
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<br /></div>
Debbie in CA : )http://www.blogger.com/profile/07473719745707917057noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2712079964629702999.post-46952085357182755042013-02-06T12:52:00.000-08:002013-02-06T12:57:23.268-08:00Chocolat Update: Enter Les Truffles<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgP1GJFiCCx6-i5MQMHcOkB2i07dCvbtsNBxpdNZBdw0QiN-iWUfb559BHjEuqLsN-mal5Qk4MKRCI43Pf51qS-FYBJXNdDBIq0Fn5PlQm4s-se7nn5NC_o9fflSauPNnBgs7qrkpb4Ms/s1600/truffles.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgP1GJFiCCx6-i5MQMHcOkB2i07dCvbtsNBxpdNZBdw0QiN-iWUfb559BHjEuqLsN-mal5Qk4MKRCI43Pf51qS-FYBJXNdDBIq0Fn5PlQm4s-se7nn5NC_o9fflSauPNnBgs7qrkpb4Ms/s400/truffles.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
So, I left off yesterday’s post with a pic of a mass of
chocolate spread upon parchment. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
“What did I do with that?” you may be asking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Well, first I tasted it and found it darkly delicious.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>[WARNING:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you
adore Hershey’s kisses this will not, I repeat, WILL NOT be to your
liking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If, however, you seek out the
darkest, deepest, 80+ chocolate and can be found nibbling cacao nibs in secret
so that you don’t have to share, this is your kind of CHOCOLATE.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s bold.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It’s dark.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It will scare the
chocolate chips lurking in your cupboard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Be warned!]</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Next, I sampled the texture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Pliable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Smooth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Perfect for forming into nuggets </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
which can then be rolled in cocoa powder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Et Voila!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Le Truffle!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
So, I made a small dish of these “samples” and shared the
wealth.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>
</b></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>* * * * * </b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
The reactions:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
“WOW!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
“Ummmm, Mom, these are REALLY DARK . . . ummmmm, REALLY!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
“[Thoughtfully chewing]<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Yeah . . . these are rich . . . and good.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
*POW!*<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>[Did someone’s
head just blow off?]</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>
</b></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>* * * * *</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Later, I made my way into the kitchen and noticed that the
truffles had vanished from the dish, the mass of chocolat had visibly reduced,
and the straight cocoa powder bowl stood empty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This build-a-truffle bar was
clearly a hit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Throughout the evening
the stock of choc got smaller as the compliments flowed more heavily.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Me
thinks they like it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>; )</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>_________________________________</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<i>
</i><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>**In the interest of journalistic integrity I must divulge
that my children have been raised by a certified Health Food Nut, from California,
no less.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They have RARELY been served
any chocolate less than 65%.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>M&Ms,
Kisses, and the like almost never cross the threshold, unless gifted to us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Likewise, white sugar has been mostly
taboo.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I make our food from scratch
(including grinding my own wheat for bread).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Obviously, fast-food/junk food has been OUTLAWED and the law’s been strictly
enforced.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(In fact, my two youngest have
never even seen a Happy Meal-type deal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>My older kids were pitied by others who felt the need to “gift” them
with a Happy Meal experience, thus they sat politely and stared at the “food”
after tasting it and making a scrunchy face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They’ve been programmed healthy, I confess.) </i></div>
<i>
</i><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<i>
</i><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>I share this so that you will <b><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">understand</span></b> that this chocolate is a <span style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">bit</span> on the extreme side <b><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">even
for Health-nut offspring</span></b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thus it
should be approached with extreme caution if you are trying to access that “Chocolate
is good for you” trend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You may entirely
invalidate your future credibility in the “Here-try-this” arena if you
substitute this for that familiar dish of M&M’s on your counter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My family regularly follows me on “Food
Safaris” of great adventure, and even they needed a moment to process it.</i></div>
<i>
</i><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<i>
</i><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Okay . . . ‘nuf said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
___________________________________</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">
</span></b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">* * * * *</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
Final Analysis of Chocolat Mission 1:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>ACCOMPLISHED!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
Let it be known, the Coconut Crystal Truffles are a hit!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
A homerun!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dare I call this deeply chocolate, white-sugar-free delicacy
Health Food?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A vitamin pill, even?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nah . . . that would be no fun.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll just add it to the list of <i>Approved
Foods</i> alongside my goat’s milk ice cream. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Don’t cringe – it’s FABULOUS and so creamy
delish!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’d never know . . . if I hadn’t
just told you.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Any recommendations/improvements to note?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I think I may just ramp up the <i>Anti-oxidant levels</i> by
rolling the cocoa-clad truffles in bitter nibs of cacao.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe then the rest of my family will find
them simply over-the-top TOO intense for them, and I won’t have to compete so
vigorously for my fair share.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I just
hate working up a sweat over . . . well, ANYthing!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now, where’s that truffle I hid . . . I know it’s here somewhere
. . . back in this cupboard . . . oooooh! . . . . REACH!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>[and the sweat begins to glaze the fevered
brow.]<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrOV2OpOPQ2Cq3RknAFEzuM7uttsq7coaLxuLnPCqH819Zuyxh6ixCeyDB_L0V9K0GVjWT21RDgu7Zz9yJU0gK6MYpHBCeSvjvG4ik0ibaJYUaouBuI2QPmrNMm0BGZ0Xv2vGTbJYkafs/s1600/truffle2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrOV2OpOPQ2Cq3RknAFEzuM7uttsq7coaLxuLnPCqH819Zuyxh6ixCeyDB_L0V9K0GVjWT21RDgu7Zz9yJU0gK6MYpHBCeSvjvG4ik0ibaJYUaouBuI2QPmrNMm0BGZ0Xv2vGTbJYkafs/s400/truffle2.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>
</b></span></i><br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-large;">Healthy Eating: </span></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-large;">It’s a Delicious Adventure!</span></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>: D</b></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Debbie in CA : )http://www.blogger.com/profile/07473719745707917057noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2712079964629702999.post-79407321180313327322013-02-05T17:42:00.000-08:002013-02-05T17:46:55.191-08:00There's Something New in the Air at Wisteria Cottage . . . <div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo4kR2NV_OZ0tmrrzg66NQsnGGRlw6Sw9GliU4q_q91ydU5e0jbs4Tq2tuD63wR_iinBWZvXVPHFRMi5c8MITS6oQdBYxdsKxosnXHf3c9zxTUkkR9uuK6siJB6OVvyWmFgKV6H7wEOPc/s1600/Chocolat-film.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo4kR2NV_OZ0tmrrzg66NQsnGGRlw6Sw9GliU4q_q91ydU5e0jbs4Tq2tuD63wR_iinBWZvXVPHFRMi5c8MITS6oQdBYxdsKxosnXHf3c9zxTUkkR9uuK6siJB6OVvyWmFgKV6H7wEOPc/s400/Chocolat-film.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"What's that smell? </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"What does it smell like?"</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"I don't know, but it sure smells good?"</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Here. Taste."</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"MMMMmmmmmm! What is it?<br />
It's got a kind of figgy, deep richness about it."</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
***** </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX22QwWMCrhSvGseeuCW0Lygbgr4Vv9xaa-T8Gus6S9iKhX2XawkvlIuuFACqCUseSwINr1wy2AWyz6X9ZDzFQVbAMh_Ihmi1LWRS2AVpB8yWB4jbfId8ewmXPn1r5livKeBds1pSQD3E/s1600/chocolat+kitchen+2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX22QwWMCrhSvGseeuCW0Lygbgr4Vv9xaa-T8Gus6S9iKhX2XawkvlIuuFACqCUseSwINr1wy2AWyz6X9ZDzFQVbAMh_Ihmi1LWRS2AVpB8yWB4jbfId8ewmXPn1r5livKeBds1pSQD3E/s400/chocolat+kitchen+2.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
[Another enters the kitchen]</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"What do I smell?"</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
[Taste given to newest inquiring mind.]</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"WOW! That's powerful, but really good. What is it?"</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
*****<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt0q_Dc2Fy8T9b5UnVA-l1TryJmL_PJ9uRZpOPtD6_103SHWuU949UYEXQL9erGm_swIrQONhlL1oF4iRN2tqvLHX8fSvEq4YHYUwm7Mo0DoEJAVf1cWuLdCUhvnj_U6ANlXutzu5a5rA/s1600/image-de-Le-Chocolat-3851.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="177" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt0q_Dc2Fy8T9b5UnVA-l1TryJmL_PJ9uRZpOPtD6_103SHWuU949UYEXQL9erGm_swIrQONhlL1oF4iRN2tqvLHX8fSvEq4YHYUwm7Mo0DoEJAVf1cWuLdCUhvnj_U6ANlXutzu5a5rA/s320/image-de-Le-Chocolat-3851.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
[Enter a third member of the <i>choco</i>-sition]</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Take a taste" </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
[I point toward the bottles of dark deliciousness.]</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Does this have alcohol in it?"</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
*****</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisoeDBwGrZ2CAHD9pMPIxsmbRHfzgLvx0kut9rMPPJ-jsiGaG6mDdoUk6yjgz9DSw6EJyhvHXoYg2DpIgAHZHhsZZ0HZ4LzLlkpymyWcFBz01LO0JHSXOTFCkIXglZJFzGuMrEhVUskII/s1600/chocolat6.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="221" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisoeDBwGrZ2CAHD9pMPIxsmbRHfzgLvx0kut9rMPPJ-jsiGaG6mDdoUk6yjgz9DSw6EJyhvHXoYg2DpIgAHZHhsZZ0HZ4LzLlkpymyWcFBz01LO0JHSXOTFCkIXglZJFzGuMrEhVUskII/s400/chocolat6.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
As the gentle strains of the soundtrack to <i>Chocolat</i> waft around the room mingling with the heady fragrance of pure, deep, rich, luscious chocolate, I wonder if this is what Heaven will be like?<br />
<br />
I have chopped and broken, shaved and melted cocoa and chocolate -- 100% -- with the ever-surprising coconut crystals in place of white sugar. A bit of water and the richest, most decadent vanilla I can find round out the dark and handsome elixir. I stir constantly and wait with baited breath. In the swirling vat I look deeply . . . and inhale . . . and wonder. Finally, I set it aside to cool. (I remind myself that a hasty taste resulting in burned tastebuds can steal victory from a cook's challenge faster than anything.) <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then I taste . . . </div>
<br />
The essence of deep, romantic, woodsy, figgy, magical, POWERFUL, "Spirited" (though the only alcohol came from the vanilla's bourbon) chocolate goodness brings a smile to my face.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Voila! </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
CHOCOLAT!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz_Fp5nzFlKBgz3x6eEUX9lqFTeJS14W4hPV32ZJSGgyBZsoygfg132aYeOfC47r1HTCzRTunEnvLFCQGhn9sJ-MXif1ULmhBHDxvvV3sHU9ofY_Pr-NdGNm8bkisQOoia0rfGoWz_6is/s1600/Chocolat+a+la+Debbie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz_Fp5nzFlKBgz3x6eEUX9lqFTeJS14W4hPV32ZJSGgyBZsoygfg132aYeOfC47r1HTCzRTunEnvLFCQGhn9sJ-MXif1ULmhBHDxvvV3sHU9ofY_Pr-NdGNm8bkisQOoia0rfGoWz_6is/s400/Chocolat+a+la+Debbie.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
* * * * * </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's been a VERY productive day around here.<br />
I can't wait until tomorrow.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Now where did I put that chili powder . . . </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
* * * * *</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
A Demain!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>: D </b></span></div>
Debbie in CA : )http://www.blogger.com/profile/07473719745707917057noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2712079964629702999.post-28392497489357849852013-01-21T12:13:00.000-08:002013-01-21T12:13:27.286-08:00A Post for Lydia<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Mom, you need to write on your blog so I can read it,” said
Lydia recently.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
[ I smiled. : D I have a following. ]</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Today while scribbling in my journal, my pen drew an arrow
from the printed page to the virtual screen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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This one’s for you, my sweet reader, Lydia
. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>. . and all the rest of you out there
in bloggyland.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">* * * * *</span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Time Out.<span> </span>Time
Off.<span> </span>Time Away.<span> </span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span><span style="font-size: large;">T</span></span>ime for Joy.</b></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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I’ve rattled, racked, and wrung my heart, mind, and spirit
lately.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So much to process, decipher, prepare,
deliver . . .<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The world spins so out of
control these days and I am simply trying to live without succumbing to
dizziness and fatigue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve found a
simple antidote:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Joy.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Today, I’m taking a time out, for some time off, with some time away from my regularly-scheduled ways
and making time to stop, look, and listen to all the joy in and around me. I want to really drink it in and hold onto that feeling of sweet peace that comes from knowing I can relax and live life rather than exhaust myself by wrangling it into a corral for safe keeping.</div>
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<br /></div>
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The sunshine outside and the roaring fire within make me
smile at the crazy way a California Winter behaves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love the sunshine!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s so much easier to face the chilly morn
when rays of gold greet me:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>a picture of
hope.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I must admit, my favorite time
of day is sunset.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe it’s because I
am a <i>squeeze-the-last-drop-out-of</i> kinda gal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I can be brutal on an exhausted tube of toothpaste or beauty cream; I
turn each liquid receptacle for shampoo or detergent on end into a funnel before retiring it to the
recycle bin; and I watch movies until the last credit rolls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I guess I’m a pretty committed “finisher.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I like tidy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I get a “thrill” out of finding a place for everything and then putting
everything in its place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thus, it is
with great surprise that I find myself becoming such a free-spirited dreamer
these days.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Nowadays, my children often find me embroiled in a book, hunched
over a writing project, or simply gazing out into the great beyond, whilst a pile
of dishes tip precariously in the sink awaiting attention.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What has happened to Miss Tidy-up?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Has she retired?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Has she lost her mind?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Has she been taken over by sloppy
aliens?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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I, too, wonder where that other gal vanished to (usually
when an unpleasant task crops up in my path).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It seems mid-life has crept up and encouraged me to pry open new doors
and venture out into greater fields of freedom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I plunge into life with more honesty and openness, more readiness to
reach out and embrace life and all those within it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Where fear once dogged my steps, I now dance
with such crazy abandon these days that I think fear finds it harder to follow
me. (Who knew freedom thwarted fear?)</div>
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<br /></div>
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To what do I attribute this influx of . . . well . . .
ummmmmm . . . joy?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m not really sure,
but I know it has to do with letting go the reins of control and allowing life
to wash over me without fearing what might come my way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes I stumble, often times I fail, and sometimes big unexpected things knock me off my feet and swirl me around in salty waves of tears; but fear and fret make me tense and cause additional pain, so I'm learning to relax and just let it come – I simply hold out my hand and trust . . .
that God is good.</div>
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<br /></div>
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The results of this zany abdication of the foolish notion
that I can control my destiny (and the destinies of those I love) speak through
my experience.</div>
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<br /></div>
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I no longer fear rejection, for I have been rejected in the
most devastating way and not only survived, but flourished.</div>
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<br /></div>
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I no longer fear loss, for I have lost a child to death and
discovered that he will never truly be gone from my heart and that is where the
best of life collects.</div>
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<br /></div>
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I have known poverty, and found the "fear" of poverty to be
more overwhelming that the actual state of being without.</div>
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<br /></div>
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I have known financial bounty, and found the "thought" of
riches to be far more enjoyable than the actual care and feeding of a bank
balance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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I have told lies for protection, and found myself imprisoned
until the truth set me free.</div>
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<br /></div>
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I have compromised to save a friendship, and ended up losing
both my good name and the friend.</div>
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<br /></div>
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I have failed to notice a needy one in my very midst, and
then needed to fail in order to correct my vision.</div>
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<br /></div>
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I have been blind, deaf, and dumb as I strove for knowledge,
and then discovered the greatest gift of insight when I admitted my ignorance.</div>
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<br /></div>
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I have learned that a smile serves as the shortest path to
an attitude change.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like a single candle
in the darkness, a simple smile changes an entire face and everything it sees.</div>
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<br /></div>
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I have learned that “The Smile Game”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(also known as:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Smile at everyone you encounter) can be
played anywhere, anytime, with anyone and WE BOTH WIN EVERY TIME!</div>
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<br /></div>
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Most of all, I have learned that I will learn something new
every day, every hour, every minute of my life (good and bad, pleasant and
painful, abundant and barren . . . ) if I keep my heart at the ready to love,
accept, and share every single thing my Lord sends my way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How can I be so sure?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How do I know this?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Madeleine L’Engle said it best:</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSohD08nyq0SOgJks6i9hy47QhMGseSNxXoR4IGEdX8m3r0O2jx5cF5O-KJbGyeVFHwg7thby5XwaalEi0xmyk8_YDKmFm7z2egc4sGFxKD0JmmOZ_qdt3_VjJY-D8P3-zlEhDxGms_Os/s1600/believe+quote.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSohD08nyq0SOgJks6i9hy47QhMGseSNxXoR4IGEdX8m3r0O2jx5cF5O-KJbGyeVFHwg7thby5XwaalEi0xmyk8_YDKmFm7z2egc4sGFxKD0JmmOZ_qdt3_VjJY-D8P3-zlEhDxGms_Os/s400/believe+quote.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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Now I see that time has gotten away from me, caught up with
me, and called out to remind me:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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Time’s Up!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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Now it's Time For:</div>
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</div>
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Time Out<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Time Off<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Time Away<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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Time for Joy!</div>
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<br /></div>
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Before I go, I was wondering . . . </div>
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<br /></div>
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Does any one care to join me for a rousing round of </div>
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The
Smile Game?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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I’ll Start!</div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">: D</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
Debbie in CA : )http://www.blogger.com/profile/07473719745707917057noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2712079964629702999.post-48404369364072192382013-01-11T15:05:00.000-08:002013-01-11T15:08:06.298-08:00And Now for Something Completely Different . . . <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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I have lately joined a Literary Society.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Naturally, this most refined of endeavors
includes the reading of Literature, the sipping of tea/coffee, and the exchanging
of erudite conversation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I meet with my darling
daughters (Elizabeth and Lydia)
at a local coffeehouse. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Guess
Starbucks?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Right-o!) <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the space of a few hours we converse, traverse,
and reverse as all good literary scholars are wont to do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We are most proper and elegant, except when
we are not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>[Such as the times my
daughters have had to shush! me as I acted out a scene from Shakespeare, or
quoted a Dickinson poem, or flung my arms too widely for <i>E-M-P-H-A-S-I-S</i> as to
the scope of Dickens’ imagination in crafting his world.]</div>
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<br /></div>
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We would love for you to join us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you’re here in Grass
Valley, we meet at the <i><b>NICE</b></i> Starbucks
on Freeman Lane at about 1 o'clock-ish on Wednesdays.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you’re unable to join us, take a peek at the
Harold B. Pricklepants Society website/blog.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><a href="http://www.hbpsociety.blogspot.com/">www.hbpsociety.blogspot.com</a>
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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Here’s a photo snippet from the latest post:</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggbUYXAOcuKyumW7kxjm2NGWzeFFU_iXBu0iuKfYx5J1ouo1ESStiX2E8dX5Necj-MVcgJAGFieoaeeDDmFHXMMZg_OxcSSpt7gyBoW9i6jv_XroF9unJHB4y-USbdpEgF9hqxXKkpKuI/s1600/recyclerach2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggbUYXAOcuKyumW7kxjm2NGWzeFFU_iXBu0iuKfYx5J1ouo1ESStiX2E8dX5Necj-MVcgJAGFieoaeeDDmFHXMMZg_OxcSSpt7gyBoW9i6jv_XroF9unJHB4y-USbdpEgF9hqxXKkpKuI/s400/recyclerach2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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</div>
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<br /></div>
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Curious?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I thought
so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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Come give us a look-see and join in on the <strike>most proper</strike> FUN!</div>
Debbie in CA : )http://www.blogger.com/profile/07473719745707917057noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2712079964629702999.post-72850163545264917352013-01-02T11:27:00.000-08:002013-01-02T11:27:53.388-08:00Gaining Wait in 2013<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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Today I awoke and stood still.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The quiet house whispered, “All is well.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After so many days of merry-making laced with
going here-, doing this-, making that-<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">, </span>I
greeted today with NOTHING on my agenda.
<br />
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<br /></div>
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Naturally, the house and family ALWAYS offer a solution to
the age-old ponderance:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What shall I do
with this unscheduled moment?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But,
today I stepped beyond hearing range of the To Do List and settled into the
lull of a place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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And here I sit . . . simply sitting (and sipping tea, of
course).</div>
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<br /></div>
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The Christmas tree twinkles over there; the Nativity shines
over here; Christmas extends its reach to January 6<sup>th</sup> for us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We will have yet another wonderful
celebration on the 6<sup>th</sup>, but for today it is quiet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We are quiet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I am quiet.</div>
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<br /></div>
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So, as many (most, probably) have trundled away the tree and
set about tackling resolves to de-clutter, de-stress, de-weight, I slip back
into the lull of Christmas that enveloped the manger scene even as the wise men
made their way to the blessed meeting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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I guess you could say I’ve decided to turn the tables and
gain <strike>weight</strike> wait this year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And in this waiting
my expectations grow and delight me with the prospect of meeting, greeting, and
embracing the Christ child; for surely, at least one of those wise men scooped
that babe up in his arms and played the “coo-ing” game complete with smiles of
pure joy and baby-game conversations like, “Oh aren’t you beautiful?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes, you are.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You’re so sweet I could just eat you up!” and then proceeded to nibble
on those newborn toes with delight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">[Okay – maybe not the nibbling-toes part.<span> </span>That probably would have been in the recorded
version if women accompanied these learned ones.<span> </span>But, I digress . . .]</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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After all, God came to man as a baby – fully God/fully human
– and who can resist an adorable baby?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Being fully God did not erase that heavenly “baby smell” each birth brings;
nor did it envelop him in a corona-like force field that kept mere mortals at
bay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As in his later life, so in his
birth, Jesus came to be embraced.</div>
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<br /></div>
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In these quiet moments before meals commence and dishes
stack, I simply sit in this lull . . . in this wait . . . and find something still
and small and special. </div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span class="text1kgs-19-11">And he
said, Go forth, and stand upon the mount before the </span><span class="small-caps"><span style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span></span><span class="text1kgs-19-11">. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue;"><span class="text1kgs-19-11">And, behold, the </span><span class="small-caps"><span style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span></span><span class="text1kgs-19-11">
passed by, </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue;"><span class="text1kgs-19-11"> And a great and strong wind rent the mountains, </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue;"><span class="text1kgs-19-11">And brake in pieces
the rocks before the </span><span class="small-caps"><span style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span></span><span class="text1kgs-19-11">; </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue;"><span class="text1kgs-19-11">But the </span><span class="small-caps"><span style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span></span><span class="text1kgs-19-11"> was not in the wind: </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue;"><span class="text1kgs-19-11">And after the wind an earthquake; </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue;"><span class="text1kgs-19-11">But the </span><span class="small-caps"><span style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span></span><span class="text1kgs-19-11"> was not in the earthquake:</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span class="text1kgs-19-12"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue;"><span class="text1kgs-19-12">And after the
earthquake a fire; </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue;"><span class="text1kgs-19-12">But the </span><span class="small-caps"><span style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span></span><span class="text1kgs-19-12">
was not in the fire: </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue;"><span class="text1kgs-19-12">And after the fire </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue;"><i><span class="text1kgs-19-12">a still small voice.</span></i></span></div>
<i>
</i><div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="text1kgs-19-12">1 Kings </span><span class="text1kgs-19-12">19:11</span><span class="text1kgs-19-12">, 12</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> I hope to gain a LOT of wait in 2013. </span></div>
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Debbie in CA : )http://www.blogger.com/profile/07473719745707917057noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2712079964629702999.post-17311205824003992572013-01-01T21:21:00.000-08:002013-01-01T21:21:18.161-08:00Aloha 2012 ~~ ALOHA 2013!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We celebrated in Hawaiian Style</div>
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Complete with Volcano & Tiki . . . </div>
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. . . and a nerdly experiment.</div>
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(Otherwise it just wouldn't feel like home.)</div>
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Some people pop champagne corks -- </div>
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<i>not around here!</i></div>
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Hope you've had a wonderful start to the New Year.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="color: red;">A</span><span style="color: lime;">L</span><span style="color: yellow;">O</span><span style="color: blue;">H</span><span style="color: magenta;">A</span>!!</b></span></div>
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Debbie in CA : )http://www.blogger.com/profile/07473719745707917057noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2712079964629702999.post-25258740782766898082012-12-27T01:31:00.000-08:002012-12-27T01:31:58.998-08:00
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Christmas 2012</span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></span></div>
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</span></span><div align="justify">
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> Dear Friends,</span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</span></span><div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</span></span><div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">The time has so swiftly arrived for the annual
Christmas greetings that I have been caught off guard. Literally! "So soon?"
I stutter and scramble to assess all that the year has held and given and
taught. Each year I choose a new word, a special word to guide me through the
year to come. Unlike resolutions that get laid aside quite quickly, this word
floats along atop the many waters I navigate each day, hour, moment which add up
to a year. 2012 became my year of "Celebrate" and it has proven to be a year
chock full of parties and guests and opportunities to ring the bells of joy.
Tears and trials mingled right alongside the luaus and vacations making for a
memorable and busy year . . . like all the rest. 2013 will be the year of
"Cultivate." </span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</span></span><div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</span></span><div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I have planted the seeds of so many hopes, dreams,
and wishes over the years and those require tending and nurturing to bring about
fruit. This year I set aside to truly dig deep and wide and lovingly into some
of those things that have yet to blossom or sit ripe for harvest. My biggest
project these days involves teaching the girls a college-level course in world
literature. My many years of study and preparation in this area make it a joy
to read, write, and discuss the best the world has seen in written words. The
diversity of languages and cultures and beliefs conveyed through words makes for
a banquet of choices. Though the girls have read and studied practically their
whole life, this is a time for us to line up "The Greatest Hits" of Shakespeare,
Chaucer, Milton, and so on. We find it stimulating, interesting, and often
times quite unusual as we follow the footsteps of readers of all times. We meet
at a local Starbucks coffee house and mimic the days of Samuel Johnson,
when coffee, friends, and ideas naturally flowed together. Though the internet
has expanded our access to knowledge and virtual relationships, we are trying an
experiment in reaching out to those right here in our midst for the formation of
groups of people discussing life and all it entails. Each week as we select a
coffee or tea paired with a tasty sandwich we strike up a conversation with
somebody new. When we seat ourselves amongst bags of books and notepads, we
catch the eye of those around us and receive curious smiles or questions. Few
people today actually read the classics, it seems, but they all acknowledge the
"coolness" of doing so. Last year as the New Year rolled around I hatched this
idea of meeting in the coffee house just to see what would happen. It took some
time to get the whole thing going, but we are fast becoming a fixture in the
place and may be expanding our size as others have expressed interest in forming
a once-a-month writing club. You can't imagine how many people dream of writing
a novel or memoir or screenplay. Being a dreaming writer myself, I have taken
the step to form a club and see what happens. Of course, writer's block set in
almost immediately for me, but then that's all part of the purpose of a club --
to encourage us to tackle the trials as we seek to leave some sort of legacy of
hope and love in a world so tragically in need of a touch . . . a
hug.</span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</span></span><div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></span></div>
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</span></span><div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">The world news leaves me frightened and stunned.
Pick a nation, ANY nation, and you will find poverty of pocketbook or spirit.
Pick a people, ANY people, and you will find evil in the midst of good. I weep
as I read and then I fall to my knees and implore the Lord to make people behave
better; sadly we have the gift of free will and we can choose. Why choose
evil? Why not choose good? Why not choose The Best? I have taught my children
manners and morals and stressed compassion and love, as have parents the world
over. I hold to the hope that good triumphs. Recently we had a friend with us
for dinner. He is a World Vision Philanthropy leader. He travels the world
over giving aid, seeking, aid, reaching out with love in the form of food,
supplies for relief or farming or education, and most of all sharing a vision
that each person CAN make a difference. The hours he spent with us encouraged
and inspired us, as he always does with a simple message: Love without counting
the cost. I asked him many questions about China and the people he has met
with. He smiled and told of all the "regular" Chinese folks he has been blessed
to meet; and he happily shared that the people of China, like Americans,
Norwegians, Egyptians, and all the rest, value their families and children and
parents more than any form of government or power-play or material good.
Chinese parents strive to provide the best life they can for their children in
this crazy, mixed-up world of ours. As the carols played through the air and
the candles burned low we reached out and prayed for each and every
mother-father-child-friend-neighbor in hopes that joy, true joy, would be felt
round the world. </span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</span></span><div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</span></span><div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">As my children grow and take on their own direction
in life, I find myself Celebrating and Cultivating more than ever. Matthew, now
24, lives a home-based life with as many choices as he can handle. The special
little boy side remains with him, but an even more special and delightful
young man has blossomed. He continues to grow and learn and be himself in the
most beautiful way. Only God knows the whys and hows of all the trials and
challenges each one faces, but God is faithful to supply comfort and joy in all
cases. Elizabeth is now 23 and quite the busy young woman. She has much to
fill her time with socially. She hosts the college/career group from church at
our guest house each Sunday. A great group of young people meet, eat, share,
laugh, learn and encourage each other to step up to the plate and share their
gifts with the world. Come January, she will be attending a local college with
courses in business and accounting, in addition to the Literature studies here
at home. She dreams of running her own business someday. Currently, she works
with Gary assuming many of the assembly and inventory tasks, as well as
taking on outside projects, like being the chairwoman of our annual Christmas
Tea event at church -- 300 women gathering for a full tea and a special program
takes A LOT of planning, and she did it magnificently. She has dreams that call
to her and she keeps seeking the fulfillment of them. That's an exciting thing
to stand by and witness. I think her 2013 promises to be very
busy/exciting/wonderful.</span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</span></span><div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</span></span><div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">My "little ones," Lydia and Rachel, are no longer
"little." They both stand eye-to-eye with me (with Rachel continuing to grow
taller than all). Good genes and nutrition have benefited them. I am surprised
how small so many of their peers are. I think we have a nutritional crisis in
this land of plenty (but that's a whole different rant). Lydia graduated from
high school a year early and has begun college studies in writing and Literature
here at home. She pursues her harp as a career, but her heart hopes to be a
writer. Local restaurants and cultural events at home and in the community
provide ample opportunity for her to share her gift of music. Rachel, now
14, is also beginning to perform on the piano more regularly outside our home.
I am encouraging them to write music for Harp/Piano duets as they are
nonexistent. So far they are in the "working-it-out" stage. There's always a
new project or challenge around here. Rachel continues her studies, though she
has completed most of her high school requirements already, mostly in Math and
Science. She will begin Latin and Astronomy in the New Year. Her goals are
quite unique from her older sisters' and that makes me smile. The greatest joy
in life is pursuing what you love. We follow our dreams around here and we
continue to find ourselves in some pretty amazing places!</span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</span></span><div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</span></span><div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Gary continues to develop new projects for the
company in Southern California and, surprisingly enough, our small manufacturing
business has remained vital despite the poor economic climate and the stiff
competition from Chinese products. Because our product is designed and
manufactured here at home it costs far more than a Chinese import; but we have
managed to harness a niche market of custom-laser needs that continues to order
specialty items of higher quality. What a blessing! Gary is also pursuing his
dreams of exploring/inventing new things with magnets and power and LEDs and all
sorts of ""weird" stuff. Scientists dream just like writers do, except they
speak an entirely different language. We have a houseful of dreamers with ideas
in all shapes and sizes.</span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</span></span><div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</span></span><div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">And so I arrive at the end of another
busy-exciting-exhausting-hilarious year here at Wisteria Cottage. I continue to
explore cooking and writing and gardening and hospitality and teaching and on
and on goes the list. I am BUSIER than I have ever been, but thankfully I enjoy
(almost) every minute of it. The ups and downs of life take my breath away,
bring on tears, break my heart, and warm it all at the same time. Life
confuses me even as it delights me. I have hope that as I grow in age I grow
also in wisdom so that I may be able to encourage, nurture, love, and cultivate
the very best in my life so as to have the very best to offer up to those around
me. The beauty all around at Christmas time never fails to call me to a better
place in my thoughts, hopes, and dreams. Christmas began centuries ago in a
stable ripe with the sights, sounds, and smells of animals unaware of the
magnitude of the blessed gift of hope that Mary laid in the manger of scratchy
straw. We have wrapped the idea of Christmas into sparkly presents and lavish
feasts and blinking lights, but we can never deny or obscure the naked Truth
that came to life that night so long, long ago.</span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</span></span><div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</span></span><div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I hope this letter finds you well and blessed and
full of good cheer this December time. </span></span></div>
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</span></span><div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</span></span><div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Much Love,</span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</span></span><div>
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Debbie and family </span></span></span></div>
Debbie in CA : )http://www.blogger.com/profile/07473719745707917057noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2712079964629702999.post-34608986188464093942012-01-02T14:16:00.000-08:002012-01-02T16:33:05.892-08:00CELEBRATE 2012<div class="MsoNormal">My new year has begun and I am awash in stored-up-for-pondering moments: The parties and gatherings strung day-to-day as jewels about my heart, a precious necklace, a gathering of sweet-sweet gifts. I reaped quiet joy from all the parties thrown, invites accepted, hospitality served, moments shared. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">All Good. </div><div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">All Merry. </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">All Bright. </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">A Serendipitous Treasure Trove. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjjZ_M2xVPWS99Kb8ldrdz81W7hZvykJfywB49k5Nzu5d-TGiQdqNN8_dz-cpQ8SXNMI3UoIdVw9LzvAHQaP1lZL8ETRdkqNdh-X5ZJsl2fibjOLQuGWPpHZpq_OmWWeTcnYVQOi0ylHA/s1600/NYE%25232.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjjZ_M2xVPWS99Kb8ldrdz81W7hZvykJfywB49k5Nzu5d-TGiQdqNN8_dz-cpQ8SXNMI3UoIdVw9LzvAHQaP1lZL8ETRdkqNdh-X5ZJsl2fibjOLQuGWPpHZpq_OmWWeTcnYVQOi0ylHA/s400/NYE%25232.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"> </div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>Caves filled with glowing gems </i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>Surprise the happy wanderer, </i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>Whereas stock returns </i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>Merely mop the sweated brow </i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>Of an anxious investor. </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>Treasure delights the heart </i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>In ways that a planned heist never can.</i><i> </i> </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">[a page from my journal]</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">* * * * *</span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I guess my greatest lessons of 2011 involve the washing away of tallies from yesterday and To-Do lists destined to harness today, leaving the day’s blackboard open for spontaneous doodles, unexpected love notes, and serendipitous moments of pure joy.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I found a lasting souvenir of serendipity from 2011 on a day-trip into The City (San Francisco, of course) during post-Christmas week: </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">A thoughtfully planned itinerary blew away in the winds of mayhem and mobs of merry-makers filling the streets, shops, and restaurants. Missed turns and clotted intersections met us at the city gate (Golden, of course), and forced me surrender my “plan” for the day. I shrugged and danced along, sometimes being dragged, pushed, or prodded. I played along nicely and actually found it freeing and fun to just go from here to there without a schedule. We would see what we would see and it would be enough, I kept encouraging myself. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">We encountered cable car madness as we attempted to board and ride down from Union Square to Ghirardelli Square for dinner. Throngs of people, some disrespectful of lines (and sometimes manners) thwarted our efforts for over an hour. I began to grumble. I grumbled again when we finally secured outside bars here and there around the car, separating our party into single entities hanging outside the car. Hrmph! Not the plan! </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">When the car lurched forward the grumbling stopped as a giggle of sweet anticipation rose in my throat. I looked across the car to my brother-in-law and saw his formerly furrowed brow relax as his grip tightened. My sister, up ahead two bars, turned and flashed a wide grin. I couldn’t see Gary for the obstructing brake man, but I trusted he held fast up near the front of the car. Lurch! The adventure began.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">My grumble turned to humble as I noticed the sunset hues spreading ‘cross the skies. Pink and lavender and gold flowed in and through the bluest of blue. Quilted clouds perforated by the golden good-bye brought tears to my eyes. The seeping fog blanketed the Bay, enveloping Alcatraz in quiet beauty for the right-sided riders to revel in, while we on the left had a stunning farewell symphony from a glorious day in The City. The mist-chilled air rushed past, planting kisses upon all cheeks turned to the wind. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The car climbed up, up, up, whizzed down, down, down, careened around corners, and slipped deftly past twin cars passing close. “Lean in!” yelled the brakeman as I yearned to lean out and catch a passing hand. “Hold on!” He bellowed amidst the screeching of metal as we turned sharply and climbed higher. Riding an hour earlier would have pre-empted the sunset; riding inside the wooden car would have cut the misty embrace – the waiting brought the beauty that my planned and expected results nearly stole. “Serendipity,” sang the cables under the street. “Enjoy,” squealed metal rails leading us on. “Whee!” laughed my heart as I hung on and let go. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">* * * *</span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">“Good bye 2011! You’ve been fantastic!” I sing full-throated. You’ve taught me so much . . . you’ve given me so much and asked for nothing in return. You simply came to me in unexpectedness and left me serendipitous. Most of all you brought me to a crossroads and offered me freedom. Personal keys fitted into personal locks that flung wide the iron bars from a heart now free to love and live and laugh most wholeheartedly. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">In 2011 I threaded my timid fingers through the bold hand of the Lord and set out across a scarred landscape without a map. Finding my way through forests of forgiveness, over mountains of challenge, through valleys of despair did not discourage me because each step of the way I found beauty, unexpected beauty everywhere. The burdensome molds of expectation coupled with the painful scalpels of perfection proved too heavy to heft up and down and all around this madcap journey without a map . . . so I dumped them and embraced the moment fueled by spontaneity. If my foot got stepped upon I winced, forgave, and moved on without hesitation toward the music, eager to dance despite the smarting reminder that I had just been trod upon. Serendipity met me and provided refreshment. 2011 felt good. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Slipped on easily like comfy favorite slippers and a soft flowey skirt, 2011 was simply made for dancing. And I danced regardless of the music.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">My resolve at the dawn of 2011 to live in Serendipity flushed the pipes and set me on a wild and delightful adventure. Gone the days of tense list making, meticulous evaluations, and intentional harnessing of details ensuring expected results; replaced with:</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">FREEDOM</span></div><div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">As I let others be free, </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">running true to themselves despite expectations, </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">So I let myself run free . . . </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">AND I LOVED IT!</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Most notably I drink in the freedom of living side-by-side in love without the demand to do, be, give, make, supply. Loving someone does not command one to meet their every need. I can love freely. Just love. Love doesn’t come with a price tag or a To Do list or even an apron string . . . it simply comes. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>Love shouts “Boo!” from around the corner ahead.</i></div><div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>Love rings the doorbell unannounced.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>Love plants a kiss on a cold cheek and flushes it warm.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>Love dances with Serendipity, making a fabulous couple.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>Love is.</i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">* * * * *</span> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">Still dancing to the joyful chorus of <i>Serendipity</i> echoing from 2011, </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">I resolve to carry forth the loving and </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>CELEBRATE</b></i> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">in 2012. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Having tossed out intentions and expectations in 2011, I favor the random spilling and splashing of goodness and joy and sweet, sweet love as it overflows the banks of one life and floods its neighbor nourishing them today. Jesus promises tomorrow will take care of itself (Matthew 6:34) and God will take care of me (Matthew 6:30), so I am free to love . . . simply love . . . obedient love. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="color: blue; text-align: center;"><i>This is my commandment,</i></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="color: blue; text-align: center;"><i>That you love one another;</i></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="color: blue; text-align: center;"><i>Even as I have loved you.</i></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="color: blue; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="color: blue; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">John 15:12</span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="color: blue; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="color: blue; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>Here it is seen that he loved us and did everything for our benefit, </i></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>in order that we may do the same not to him, </i></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>for he needs it not, </i></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>but to our neighbor. </i></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>This is his commandment, </i></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>and this is our obedience. </i></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i> Christ helps us, so we in return help our neighbors, </i></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>and all have enough.</i></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">~~ Martin Luther ~~</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">* * * * *</span> </div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="color: blue; text-align: center;"><i>“. . . who is my neighbor?”</i></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="color: blue; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Luke 10:29</span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">* * * </div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="color: blue; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: blue;"><i>And Jesus answering said, </i><br />
<br />
<i>A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side. But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, and went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee. </i></div><div style="color: blue;"><br />
</div><div style="color: blue;"><i> Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves? </i></div><div style="color: blue;"><br />
</div><div style="color: blue; text-align: center;"><i>And he said, </i><br />
<i>He that shewed mercy on him. </i><br />
<br />
<i>Then said Jesus unto him, </i></div><div style="color: blue; text-align: center;"><br />
<i><b>Go, and do thou likewise.</b> </i></div><div style="color: blue;"><br />
</div><div style="color: blue; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Luke 10:30-37</span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">* * * * *</span> </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">December 12, 2011</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Note to Self:</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Forget about the myth you have created wherein your whole family gathers together to celebrate Christmas. Remember, Mary and Joseph left family and journeyed far before they experienced Christmas.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">In a makeshift “home” </div><div class="MsoNormal">Surrounded by those who followed the star</div><div class="MsoNormal">(Their only connection)</div><div class="MsoNormal">They celebrated Christmas.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Animals, shepherds, wise men, precious gifts,</div><div class="MsoNormal">All melded into an expression of answering a call.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">No one expected.</div><div class="MsoNormal">No one forced.</div><div class="MsoNormal">It just happened.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: x-small;">[A page from my journal]</span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">* * * * *</span> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">Though I haven’t packed a single map or directive to carry forth, </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">I am more than equipped for the journey into 2012 </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">Because my heart brims with 2011’s gift of Serendipity.</div><div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">So, I’m off!</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">Here I come!</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">Are you ready to </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>CELEBRATE 2012</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">with me</span></span>?</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>: D <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
</b></span></div>Debbie in CA : )http://www.blogger.com/profile/07473719745707917057noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2712079964629702999.post-61407975863067140182011-12-25T00:01:00.000-08:002011-12-25T00:01:01.332-08:00Sunday Wonder<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
<div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">MERRY CHRISTMAS!</span></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT-YfhhA3M4ZGQnRjn6fWNmOlrxJ5mPWOcDVeD1U0N-pxNT88fGr7eLW7JtWORzXSzKYg7wcFqx9jDJl9kK7yR03hiMvEzEyJ3ZsCfNCiHhKB1sWaY2rErSDqM8rZOLsnNU4p6VdP59zo/s1600/hope.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT-YfhhA3M4ZGQnRjn6fWNmOlrxJ5mPWOcDVeD1U0N-pxNT88fGr7eLW7JtWORzXSzKYg7wcFqx9jDJl9kK7yR03hiMvEzEyJ3ZsCfNCiHhKB1sWaY2rErSDqM8rZOLsnNU4p6VdP59zo/s400/hope.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="color: blue; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: blue; text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></i></div><div style="color: blue; text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">Now the God of hope </span></i></div><div style="color: blue; text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">fill you with </span></i></div><div style="color: blue; text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">all joy and peace in believing, </span></i></div><div style="color: blue; text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">that ye may abound in hope, </span></i></div><div style="color: blue; text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">through the power of the Holy Ghost.</span></i></div><div style="color: blue; text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></i><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Romans 15:13</span></span><i><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></i></div><div style="color: blue; text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></i></div><div style="color: blue; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">*</span></b></span><i><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></i></div>Debbie in CA : )http://www.blogger.com/profile/07473719745707917057noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2712079964629702999.post-23653983680491107642011-12-24T01:32:00.000-08:002011-12-24T01:32:06.924-08:00For Unto Us a Child Is Born<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbmzopzeVg5XsqCwFzn4DO7i32G4xTj-2O50J7toMB_mJA2U3JJRa_LDzkjGoT2TdBCTzO0YcHqLggjYa0ZTzTWqC5sdiNmkTH9Mto3HByWzHE8XDtDurkydxjH4Pb15E7ePL0y3kaonQ/s1600/disneynativity.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbmzopzeVg5XsqCwFzn4DO7i32G4xTj-2O50J7toMB_mJA2U3JJRa_LDzkjGoT2TdBCTzO0YcHqLggjYa0ZTzTWqC5sdiNmkTH9Mto3HByWzHE8XDtDurkydxjH4Pb15E7ePL0y3kaonQ/s400/disneynativity.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">How Sweet the Gift.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Hallelujah! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Debbie in CA : )http://www.blogger.com/profile/07473719745707917057noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2712079964629702999.post-89127231867150108442011-12-20T10:43:00.000-08:002011-12-20T12:21:50.748-08:00Simply Christmas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCDcs2bnhmUxNMeXy5mt-hAo68xBKwUHDERh_NqYtcKd4nRAwWtR14_1BmELxCBgS6PXxBESqU2SXwWFK6282A1hXV3DGSEQex6RrxKeN1hJZo_Z3rwtbwRXmaZiUzmxT3U1TU4Z4lD-c/s1600/simplychristmas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCDcs2bnhmUxNMeXy5mt-hAo68xBKwUHDERh_NqYtcKd4nRAwWtR14_1BmELxCBgS6PXxBESqU2SXwWFK6282A1hXV3DGSEQex6RrxKeN1hJZo_Z3rwtbwRXmaZiUzmxT3U1TU4Z4lD-c/s400/simplychristmas.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Holiday To-Do List (update)</span>:</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">SIMPLY CELEBRATE</span><i><br />
</i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>For it is good to be children sometimes, </i></div><div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>And never better than at Christmas, </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>When its mighty Founder was a child himself.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">~~ Charles Dickens ~~</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<i style="color: blue;">But Jesus called them to Him and said, </i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: blue; text-align: center;"><i>“Let the little children come to Me, </i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: blue; text-align: center;"><i>And do not forbid them; </i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: blue; text-align: center;"><i>For of such is the kingdom of God.</i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-small;">Luke 18:16 </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I have found a deliciously quiet moment – a moment without an activity or a preparation for an activity or the jammy-seeking tiredness that follows the close of an activity. You know of what I write: parties, teas, performances, crafts, table settings, dish washings . . . the list trails off in a delightful peppermint-stripe of fun and frolic as we gather together to celebrate the beauty of our happy walk toward Christmas. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Though I do nearly nothing in the way of shopping conventionally, I do go all out in flinging wide my door to gatherings big and small. A friend drops by to deliver goat’s milk because she was caught in a traffic jam when Gary came by to purchase and I put on the kettle. A delightful time strolling through the gardens (unseasonably warm and still in bloom here and there), followed by a fragrant gathering in the tree’s glow as we sipped strawberry-vanilla tea and nibbled at some dark chocolate became a gift. She pronounced it the nicest tea she had ever had – did I mention she’s a garden gal who loves the outdoors more than I? I’m sure her teatimes generally include a mug in hand taken to a bench under the fig tree. To simply sit and chat and sip proved a gift to all of us, as my girls gathered around eagerly. Girls-and-tea-and-such just happens spontaneously around here, while the boys snicker from another room or pass on through swiftly, pausing for a sweet and portable treat before vanishing.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8iV1eqbZtWbfYDnj5VcwPKyB6IAEgqhdr5sKsTTr02-sX-MV4EiRvONS8qUOD2q-U3dkudczA3Ugtn4N6MV9SrEW4tNWmjw2U9kGwT-62jXcr4CXJdLZFJ5P6PGhnFCxetpOQ9VF8QWU/s1600/cookiefun2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8iV1eqbZtWbfYDnj5VcwPKyB6IAEgqhdr5sKsTTr02-sX-MV4EiRvONS8qUOD2q-U3dkudczA3Ugtn4N6MV9SrEW4tNWmjw2U9kGwT-62jXcr4CXJdLZFJ5P6PGhnFCxetpOQ9VF8QWU/s400/cookiefun2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Speaking of treats, tomorrow a dear friend-like-a-sister and her daughter-like-a-niece will be joining us for a <i>Cookie Day</i>. Gingerbread and Sugar cookies will spread out in all directions and the frosting-sprinkles-candy-sweets will rain down in happy abandon. By afternoon’s end we will have decorated, sampled, dressed up, and even dropped a few of the plethora baked in anticipation. Like Santa’s elves we will create magic and then we will send them out on plates for this neighbor or that, to friends here and there in our town, taking care to reserve sufficient supplies for our own holiday merrymaking. My sister arrives on Christmas Eve, thus missing this event, but we will surely duplicate it while she is here. You can never have too many cookie days, can you?</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj85AtRptXfS3al43-JnjbyFDopMCpxHIaXpPG8Q-jjjMRj11PlR5M8pu-byR0Gkrn3nU6xqWFioX6J3MKDfsUSJzgRPrR4M5II2IzmxqcnJTeIlBZJv7bQbf6hxnoB0F-h9DSpQOgtnBA/s1600/cookiefun1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj85AtRptXfS3al43-JnjbyFDopMCpxHIaXpPG8Q-jjjMRj11PlR5M8pu-byR0Gkrn3nU6xqWFioX6J3MKDfsUSJzgRPrR4M5II2IzmxqcnJTeIlBZJv7bQbf6hxnoB0F-h9DSpQOgtnBA/s400/cookiefun1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">For those of you that know I tend to “healthy eating” and whole-food mania, you can rest assured that I have fortified our family body with ample broths and meals in prep for the sweet-treat onslaught. White sugar and flour will be welcomed for the season as I have yet to find a suitable “sugar” cookie made from coconut crystals and whole-wheat flour – but I haven’t stopped looking! I had thought of sharing from my treasure trove of sweet, simple, and healthy recipes for parties, but as time has slipped and I have sought serendipity over stress, that post will have to wait for another day.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Yfa3FIYR1UNr2yWMSe0bIDmhZNdfK4FR3_l0TcdShBBULD0O4iq31U7FhpM9hFDvG-L_W4bVLfK9PBL6HWvBzLtYzzuexYho3AiCTrdX3kQ6vZ0L2UEs-s81bMRBmBsAKBLB0miJvDI/s1600/angelcookie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Yfa3FIYR1UNr2yWMSe0bIDmhZNdfK4FR3_l0TcdShBBULD0O4iq31U7FhpM9hFDvG-L_W4bVLfK9PBL6HWvBzLtYzzuexYho3AiCTrdX3kQ6vZ0L2UEs-s81bMRBmBsAKBLB0miJvDI/s400/angelcookie.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal">As I gently roll my mind back over the past year I smile and celebrate the word “Serendipity” – my chosen word to guide 2011. At so many unknown turns in the road called 2011 I fell back on my special “word” and let the stress roll on by, murmuring gently to myself, “We’ll see . . . we’ll see what God has in store.” Though I could seldom find a rhyme or reason for some of the stuff, I did find comfort and pure joy in leaving off the stress of trying to control it all. I simply rode the waves and laughed (between screams) despite the raucous ride. I held tight to those I love and reminded myself to breathe as life’s coaster dipped and whirled and navigated the loop-de-loops set squarely in my path. Whew! It’s been quite a ride, and I’m ready to board 2012 with equal delight and anticipation. In fact, I tasted the sweetness of freedom with such relish this past year that I have already chosen Serendipity’s close friend as my word for 2012: </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-large;">Celebrate!</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Not being one for surprises, I have decided to unwrap the gift of “Celebrate” early and put it to good use right alongside “Serendipity.” So, if you stop by this Christmastide don’t bother looking for me on the fringes with a bedraggled smile and a load to carry, I’ll be the one right by the tree with a cookie in hand and a teapot at the ready. Serendipity taught me that life doesn’t need my fears and worries in order to find the joy; in fact, they obscure the way and siphon the energy that is better used for broad merrymaking than for sweating small details. Opening up the heart and hands, throwing wide the doorway to possibility, and letting expectations blow away has blossomed into a truly wonderful year filled with simple moments of unexpected joy. Please join me in Celebrating all that will come to us and upon us this Holy Season of the gift of great joy for ALL people. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmHbGCNmgMXBO3zzbg7VYAsNr4f2aQdX2Tc5AOiGdDkLQO4hQrBEztsquQUD93QABZcSN3dzMR-gprKVKR_j5jTRu8wi8z2nDlVtpOpWWLCw9eedrOLQb-bwR07d2EI-P36JNuNNivFdU/s1600/star.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmHbGCNmgMXBO3zzbg7VYAsNr4f2aQdX2Tc5AOiGdDkLQO4hQrBEztsquQUD93QABZcSN3dzMR-gprKVKR_j5jTRu8wi8z2nDlVtpOpWWLCw9eedrOLQb-bwR07d2EI-P36JNuNNivFdU/s400/star.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"> <b><span style="font-size: x-large;">* * *</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal">Now, if I don’t manage to find my way back here before the special day arrives please accept this as my special gift:</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">From My Family to Yours </span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjooiiiF2qeb4b-j16YVwx8nYreZdNrpznMP8jHGbq1koZgvcQc69ZMLibPSMMqmFDYWYuu232cD6g0ZIYfsLNxa1BNfO0a_pv4n89W4NvhgrCiN5eqsiL9wEi1bi4IASnW_NQa6T_q3Jc/s1600/family.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjooiiiF2qeb4b-j16YVwx8nYreZdNrpznMP8jHGbq1koZgvcQc69ZMLibPSMMqmFDYWYuu232cD6g0ZIYfsLNxa1BNfO0a_pv4n89W4NvhgrCiN5eqsiL9wEi1bi4IASnW_NQa6T_q3Jc/s400/family.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: large;"> MERRY CHRISTMAS</span><span style="font-size: large;">!</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">*</div>Debbie in CA : )http://www.blogger.com/profile/07473719745707917057noreply@blogger.com4