Let me just tell you how MUCH better I like this week than last week...I mean, sure, I'm only half a day into this week-but already I like this week better. For one thing its not a million degrees in my apartment. Meaning, I can clean house, cook, shower, sit on my couch, lie in my bed, work on my computer....all without dying of a heat induced attack of some kind ( I'm going to guess it would have been a manic attack of some kind, but just guessing).
So, I had a pretty busy weekend of meeting up with girls and I've started this week off in a similar vein. It seems that when you take two week off from ministry stuff-life actually CONTINUES ON without you. Which is totally crazy if you ask me. ;-) So, its been all about catch up + a little bit of meeting up with new girls, which basically equals good times all around....although, I will admit it all makes me rather tired. My brain begins to hurt a lot faster after having THREE intense conversations in one day.
But, on a personal note I'm reading a really fascinating book at the moment (a new review by the end of the week, I promise!), I'm looking forward to a fun week next week when Amy K. comes to visit-plus I think the next few months are going to fly by ( or they BEST!) so that the End of Brett's deployment will only be around the corner. This is good news, since it turns out you really DO have to get use to not having him around ALL. OVER. AGAIN. And sadly it is no easier the second time around. *sigh* Nights are once again difficult for me, and I am once again having to teach myself to not want to tell Brett everything that happens to me in a day and want his opinion on everything....its all about becoming self-sufficient on an every day level again...which stinks.
Wait. That paragraph totally started out all uplifting and positive. What happened? Ok, so yes...life is back to the every day grind. And all in all I'm happy with the way things are going.
For instance, right now I'm going to walk to the library and pick up some DVDs that I requested, and then I'm going to eat some fresh mango and sit in the sun. See? That doesn't sound so bad.
August 03, 2009
July 31, 2009
Reading the OED: one man, one year 21,739 pages
This book was so fantastic! It was also the perfect book for me to be reading over the past few weeks because it is great for picking up for a few minutes and then putting it down for days, only to pick it up again for a couple of hours....needless to say, just what I needed during Brett's time here-where he and I read two books out loud to each other-thus not much time for "alone reading" hehehe!
Anyway, whether hours or minutes it's a page turner for a very specific group of people. Word People.
I think its pretty self explanatory-but basically the author, Ammon Shea, sets about to read the Oxford English Dictionary, in its entirety, in one year. The book is divided up into chapters aptly named "A", "B", "C" and so on....he starts off the chapter with some sort of anecdote about what its like to read the dictionary, things he learned about dictionaries, why he loves dictionaries, things that are horrible about reading dictionaries and so forth and then the rest of the chapter would be a compilation of the interesting, crazy, funny, weird words that he collected from that particular letter... Basically its a book/ word nerd's dream book.
I spent most of the book marveling at just how much I identified with this man ( sad, surprising or comforting? not sure what)-he was funny and odd and totally endearing. Then I spent a goodly portion of my time making notes on my iphone of the words that I particularly liked...
I've thought about this for a moment, because I'm not sure if I should share some of these words with you-or even give you my favorite quotes-because I'd basically be giving you the BEST parts of the book and I really think this book deserves a reading all its own-however, I figure only a select few would ever pick this book up, anyway-and those few will love it no matter how much I might divulge here. So, here are ( some) of my favorite things about Reading the OED:
-Shea described a person who was not one for hygiene as one who had "no more than a nodding acquaintance with the concept of bathing." -this gave me a good laugh for several minutes.
-I don't care WHO you are, if you've ever spent any time in a library you should pick up this book JUST to read Chapter "O"...honestly, its SPOT ON.
-Did you know there are 169 definitions of the word "set" in the Oxford English Dictionary? Well, I did after reading this book, and it definitely made me stop and pause to think of how HARD it really would be to come up with definitions for the commonest of words. I have a WHOLE NEW appreciation for Lexicographers.
-And anyone who loves books should read, what I think is the ultimate love letter to books, in chapter F ( which I'll also call the Computers vs. Books Chapter), I found myself saying "That is SO TRUE", out loud to myself over and over.
Well! It turns out I haven't ruined the book for you after all...and I've hardly given you anything to go on...so now I'll share (some of) my favorite words that I learned from this book ( I tried to narrow it down to words I thought I JUST might be able to slip into conversation.)
Obganiate (v.)-to annoy by repeating over and over.
Lectory-a place for reading
Matutinal ( adj.)-active or wide awake in the morning hours.
Moreish (adj)-encouraging continued indulgence ( said of food or drink).
Mumpish-sullenly angry
Adoxography-good writing on a trivial subject**
Aspectabund (adj)-having an expressive face.
Cachinnator (n)-a person who laughs too loud and too long.
Colloquialist (n) an excellent talker, a person who is good at conversing
Occasionet ( n)-a minor occasion
Sarcast-a writer or speaker who is sarcastic***
Underlive-to live in a manner that does not measure up to ones potential
**-This is absolutely my goal in life. Which is probably why I have this blog! hahaha!
***-I feel like I have probably already achieved this word. Sadly
There are many other wonderful words and stories in this book, and there is no amount of reviewing or even previewing, that will give you the unique joy that actually reading it will. I hope my fellow book lovers will pick this book up-its perfect for traveling and for the busy person who only has a few moments a day to pick up a book to read...
Anyway, whether hours or minutes it's a page turner for a very specific group of people. Word People.
I think its pretty self explanatory-but basically the author, Ammon Shea, sets about to read the Oxford English Dictionary, in its entirety, in one year. The book is divided up into chapters aptly named "A", "B", "C" and so on....he starts off the chapter with some sort of anecdote about what its like to read the dictionary, things he learned about dictionaries, why he loves dictionaries, things that are horrible about reading dictionaries and so forth and then the rest of the chapter would be a compilation of the interesting, crazy, funny, weird words that he collected from that particular letter... Basically its a book/ word nerd's dream book.
I spent most of the book marveling at just how much I identified with this man ( sad, surprising or comforting? not sure what)-he was funny and odd and totally endearing. Then I spent a goodly portion of my time making notes on my iphone of the words that I particularly liked...
I've thought about this for a moment, because I'm not sure if I should share some of these words with you-or even give you my favorite quotes-because I'd basically be giving you the BEST parts of the book and I really think this book deserves a reading all its own-however, I figure only a select few would ever pick this book up, anyway-and those few will love it no matter how much I might divulge here. So, here are ( some) of my favorite things about Reading the OED:
-Shea described a person who was not one for hygiene as one who had "no more than a nodding acquaintance with the concept of bathing." -this gave me a good laugh for several minutes.
-I don't care WHO you are, if you've ever spent any time in a library you should pick up this book JUST to read Chapter "O"...honestly, its SPOT ON.
-Did you know there are 169 definitions of the word "set" in the Oxford English Dictionary? Well, I did after reading this book, and it definitely made me stop and pause to think of how HARD it really would be to come up with definitions for the commonest of words. I have a WHOLE NEW appreciation for Lexicographers.
-And anyone who loves books should read, what I think is the ultimate love letter to books, in chapter F ( which I'll also call the Computers vs. Books Chapter), I found myself saying "That is SO TRUE", out loud to myself over and over.
Well! It turns out I haven't ruined the book for you after all...and I've hardly given you anything to go on...so now I'll share (some of) my favorite words that I learned from this book ( I tried to narrow it down to words I thought I JUST might be able to slip into conversation.)
Obganiate (v.)-to annoy by repeating over and over.
Lectory-a place for reading
Matutinal ( adj.)-active or wide awake in the morning hours.
Moreish (adj)-encouraging continued indulgence ( said of food or drink).
Mumpish-sullenly angry
Adoxography-good writing on a trivial subject**
Aspectabund (adj)-having an expressive face.
Cachinnator (n)-a person who laughs too loud and too long.
Colloquialist (n) an excellent talker, a person who is good at conversing
Occasionet ( n)-a minor occasion
Sarcast-a writer or speaker who is sarcastic***
Underlive-to live in a manner that does not measure up to ones potential
**-This is absolutely my goal in life. Which is probably why I have this blog! hahaha!
***-I feel like I have probably already achieved this word. Sadly
There are many other wonderful words and stories in this book, and there is no amount of reviewing or even previewing, that will give you the unique joy that actually reading it will. I hope my fellow book lovers will pick this book up-its perfect for traveling and for the busy person who only has a few moments a day to pick up a book to read...
talk, talk, talk
Whew! What a day! I'm totally exhausted, but a part of my body* will NOT let me go to sleep. ( * the part that thinks that Brett COULD call...you never know.)
*sigh* So, anyway, I'm going to do my best to finish the book that I've been reading off and on for ages-I'm very much looking forward to writing a review for this one, so hopefully you won't have to wait much longer for that one.
And, as for my day, it was very stock full of talking. I had an early morning coffee with Tina ( she came over after her shift at Starbucks, baring the gift of coffee, so I let her in to take a shower and share some good fellowship time with her)....followed by a field trip to the wedding dress store with my roommate to do her first fitting for her wedding dress! YAY! It was great fun, and I'm so excited for her! Then, we had lunch and then I came home for a nap, but juuuust as I was about to get to sleep I got a call from Amy to get a quick catch up with her, so I was out the door again to sneak in a little talk with her ( boy, deployments do a number on a person! Let me tell you, army wives deserve metals!) and then I was home again to do bible study with Linds.
So, I feel like if there is any more advice giving, talking and/or listening left to be done today, I honestly don't know where it would come from.
That being said, my talk with Tina today reminded me of this great quote. I actually stopped mid-sentence, interrupting myself to think of it....yeah....I'm that kind of a dork:
Do you realize that your imagination of the future, which is almost always dictated by fear of some kind, rarely, if ever, pictures me ( God) there with you?!
That quote is courtesy of the book The Shack , which I don't altogether recommend...but that quote was worth the read for me at least!
*sigh* So, anyway, I'm going to do my best to finish the book that I've been reading off and on for ages-I'm very much looking forward to writing a review for this one, so hopefully you won't have to wait much longer for that one.
And, as for my day, it was very stock full of talking. I had an early morning coffee with Tina ( she came over after her shift at Starbucks, baring the gift of coffee, so I let her in to take a shower and share some good fellowship time with her)....followed by a field trip to the wedding dress store with my roommate to do her first fitting for her wedding dress! YAY! It was great fun, and I'm so excited for her! Then, we had lunch and then I came home for a nap, but juuuust as I was about to get to sleep I got a call from Amy to get a quick catch up with her, so I was out the door again to sneak in a little talk with her ( boy, deployments do a number on a person! Let me tell you, army wives deserve metals!) and then I was home again to do bible study with Linds.
So, I feel like if there is any more advice giving, talking and/or listening left to be done today, I honestly don't know where it would come from.
That being said, my talk with Tina today reminded me of this great quote. I actually stopped mid-sentence, interrupting myself to think of it....yeah....I'm that kind of a dork:
Do you realize that your imagination of the future, which is almost always dictated by fear of some kind, rarely, if ever, pictures me ( God) there with you?!
That quote is courtesy of the book The Shack , which I don't altogether recommend...but that quote was worth the read for me at least!
July 30, 2009
A breeze.
And so here we are, Brett has been gone for two days... I finally heard a peep from him, via email, so I know he's still alive. This was very relieving to all my silly fears that don't believe me when I tell them that things are probably totally fine, and that I would KNOW if something was really wrong....yes, I talk to my silly fears-and they hardly ever listen....
In the past few days I've occupied most of my time with trying to stay cool. With record breaking temperatures-as in the hottest days in recorded history-and only a box fan to cool the house down, I went from one air-conditioned location to the next, trying to stay cool ( along with every other person living in Washington). But, with all that going on, there has been a lot on my heart to pray for the past few days and its been hard to find the time that I wanted on the computer to be able to email people that I wanted to email, and to write the blog posts that I wanted to write ( my computer is ancient of days and doesn't like the hot weather-she pretty much "goes to sleep" every few minutes if she gets too over heated). But, this morning, it seems that things are a TAD cooler and I've been able to stay in my bedroom, with the fan blowing directly on my body, without too much suffering and so here I am!
First of all, I felt like my last post was a bit too despairing and I'd like to amend that-and I'll blame the despair on two things:
lack of sleep, and hotness.
Ok, so seriously, I am terribly blessed. Yes, my husband left on Tuesday, but I have wonderful friends here-I was brushing my teeth that night and I got this picture of what my life looks like, and it looked like a bunch of people coming up in a big huddle all around me and giving me a big hug. THAT'S the kind of love and support that I feel from my friends and family...that being said, I felt terribly sad and more burdened to pray for Brett-who went through the same sadness that I did ( though in a super manly way. hehehe) but he lacked the people to gather around him and help him and encourage him. He is not returning to a Spiritual Family or even close friends...and once again I am struck by how difficult the road he has faced these last 8 months. So, I continue to pray for him to be upheld by the ultimate Friend and Father...and that ultimately these last four months would be the best of all, in seeing all that the Lord can do!
The other things I've been meaning to share with you...not sure why...but it just hasn't "let go" of me just yet, so I figure I'd put it out there-in my quiet time on Monday I was struck by a passage I was reading in Ps 112:7-8:
The ( Righteous Man) is not afraid of bad news, his heart is firm, trusting in the Lord, His heart is steady, he will not be afraid. "
So wow! Remember the last time you got bad news? How did that make you feel? Did you feel all steady and calm? All trusting and unafraid by whatever the news was?
hehehe, yes, me neither.
But here's the thing, that's what the Lord is saying...those that Know Him and Know Him with all their might-they are able to look even in the face of the worst news and say, "It is well."
And it IS, it IS well...because we can KNOW with absolute certainty that His Will-will be done, His Plans-they will be carried out. His Son-will be glorified. So, whatever the world might throw our way, whatever curve ball lands on our plate, whatever life hands us....it is INCONSEQUENTIAL. He laughs in the face of such "minor details", and ultimately we can too!
Whatever setbacks you may have had recently, know this for certain that He already has His plan in motion and that plan will NOT be altered and He will NOT be surprised by what tomorrow brings. We may rest in the knowledge that He knows tomorrow and that He will prepare us for whatever it may bring.
In the past few days I've occupied most of my time with trying to stay cool. With record breaking temperatures-as in the hottest days in recorded history-and only a box fan to cool the house down, I went from one air-conditioned location to the next, trying to stay cool ( along with every other person living in Washington). But, with all that going on, there has been a lot on my heart to pray for the past few days and its been hard to find the time that I wanted on the computer to be able to email people that I wanted to email, and to write the blog posts that I wanted to write ( my computer is ancient of days and doesn't like the hot weather-she pretty much "goes to sleep" every few minutes if she gets too over heated). But, this morning, it seems that things are a TAD cooler and I've been able to stay in my bedroom, with the fan blowing directly on my body, without too much suffering and so here I am!
First of all, I felt like my last post was a bit too despairing and I'd like to amend that-and I'll blame the despair on two things:
lack of sleep, and hotness.
Ok, so seriously, I am terribly blessed. Yes, my husband left on Tuesday, but I have wonderful friends here-I was brushing my teeth that night and I got this picture of what my life looks like, and it looked like a bunch of people coming up in a big huddle all around me and giving me a big hug. THAT'S the kind of love and support that I feel from my friends and family...that being said, I felt terribly sad and more burdened to pray for Brett-who went through the same sadness that I did ( though in a super manly way. hehehe) but he lacked the people to gather around him and help him and encourage him. He is not returning to a Spiritual Family or even close friends...and once again I am struck by how difficult the road he has faced these last 8 months. So, I continue to pray for him to be upheld by the ultimate Friend and Father...and that ultimately these last four months would be the best of all, in seeing all that the Lord can do!
The other things I've been meaning to share with you...not sure why...but it just hasn't "let go" of me just yet, so I figure I'd put it out there-in my quiet time on Monday I was struck by a passage I was reading in Ps 112:7-8:
The ( Righteous Man) is not afraid of bad news, his heart is firm, trusting in the Lord, His heart is steady, he will not be afraid. "
So wow! Remember the last time you got bad news? How did that make you feel? Did you feel all steady and calm? All trusting and unafraid by whatever the news was?
hehehe, yes, me neither.
But here's the thing, that's what the Lord is saying...those that Know Him and Know Him with all their might-they are able to look even in the face of the worst news and say, "It is well."
And it IS, it IS well...because we can KNOW with absolute certainty that His Will-will be done, His Plans-they will be carried out. His Son-will be glorified. So, whatever the world might throw our way, whatever curve ball lands on our plate, whatever life hands us....it is INCONSEQUENTIAL. He laughs in the face of such "minor details", and ultimately we can too!
Whatever setbacks you may have had recently, know this for certain that He already has His plan in motion and that plan will NOT be altered and He will NOT be surprised by what tomorrow brings. We may rest in the knowledge that He knows tomorrow and that He will prepare us for whatever it may bring.
July 28, 2009
A long whimper
Brett left this morning at the crack of dawn. So, I've been up for far too long. It was already 75 degrees at 4:30 which did not bode well for the rest of the day...
Not having air conditioning makes this particular heat wave brutal....I mean, I'm a Texas girl and all...but I do not DO a house that is "pleasantly cooler than outside meaning its 85 degrees..." I mean, seriously, I'm not sure how I'm going to sleep tonight with it being this hot.
And yes, Brett, let....and yes, it was just as horrible as a goodbye ever could be. It does not matter that he'll only be gone 4 months this time, it still felt like someone took out my heart and filled up the gaping hole in my chest with a bunch of thorns and heavy paper weights....and now I'm once again faced with that constant sneaking suspicion that I need to talk to someone and that someone isn't there anymore.
But, enough with the complaining ( not really, I'm sure I'll get back to more of that), I was greeted by my sweet roommate Lindsay when I got home from the airport...I haven't seen much of her in the past two weeks ( except to attend her SURPRISE ENGAGEMENT PARTY! YAAAAAY!) so it was great to see her again, and she was nice enough to get up at 7am in the morning and talk to me for a little while....and then, later, my fellow army-wives-with-deployed-husbands, Karissa and Amy came over and commiserated with me and they came baring gifts and pizza....and that plus all the many nice notes and texts and facebook messages, I know that I am loved and that I don't have much to complain about....yet, why do I feel like crying again?
Not having air conditioning makes this particular heat wave brutal....I mean, I'm a Texas girl and all...but I do not DO a house that is "pleasantly cooler than outside meaning its 85 degrees..." I mean, seriously, I'm not sure how I'm going to sleep tonight with it being this hot.
And yes, Brett, let....and yes, it was just as horrible as a goodbye ever could be. It does not matter that he'll only be gone 4 months this time, it still felt like someone took out my heart and filled up the gaping hole in my chest with a bunch of thorns and heavy paper weights....and now I'm once again faced with that constant sneaking suspicion that I need to talk to someone and that someone isn't there anymore.
But, enough with the complaining ( not really, I'm sure I'll get back to more of that), I was greeted by my sweet roommate Lindsay when I got home from the airport...I haven't seen much of her in the past two weeks ( except to attend her SURPRISE ENGAGEMENT PARTY! YAAAAAY!) so it was great to see her again, and she was nice enough to get up at 7am in the morning and talk to me for a little while....and then, later, my fellow army-wives-with-deployed-husbands, Karissa and Amy came over and commiserated with me and they came baring gifts and pizza....and that plus all the many nice notes and texts and facebook messages, I know that I am loved and that I don't have much to complain about....yet, why do I feel like crying again?
July 24, 2009
The Big Struggle
Brett has four more days ( that's counting today) here in the States before he heads back to A-stan for the last four months(!)...and....well, its starting to sink in that's he's leaving AGAIN.
I'm not exactly complaining, mind you, because I knew this was coming....its just....now my prayers are the same as they were last November when I prayed that Brett and I's last days together would not be TAINTED by the evilness of him leaving me. At the time God came through big time and our last days together were very sweet and fun and full of great Kansas Memories ( a miracle right there)...and so I believe that the same can be done now on a smaller scale.
Here's to these last few days, that they would be sweet, with no bitter included.
I'm not exactly complaining, mind you, because I knew this was coming....its just....now my prayers are the same as they were last November when I prayed that Brett and I's last days together would not be TAINTED by the evilness of him leaving me. At the time God came through big time and our last days together were very sweet and fun and full of great Kansas Memories ( a miracle right there)...and so I believe that the same can be done now on a smaller scale.
Here's to these last few days, that they would be sweet, with no bitter included.
July 20, 2009
Cheating
I'm thinking I'l just post another picture to fill up space...since all the space in my brain is currently occupied with soaking up as much of Brett as I possibly can....
And don't worry, I only wear this hat at concerts and in hipster towns like Olympia....normally I don't wear hats at all. promise.
And don't worry, I only wear this hat at concerts and in hipster towns like Olympia....normally I don't wear hats at all. promise.
July 17, 2009
Check!
One of the things on my list ( yes, I made a list...) of things I wanted to do when Brett was here was to sit on our balcony. Its one of my favorite places to be when the weather is fine...and so I wanted very much to share it with Brett. I can safely check this off my list now, since we've spent quite a bit of time every day on the balcony....
July 13, 2009
July 12, 2009
Cliche but nice
Right now I'm listening to Brett snore on the couch next to me. And while I promised you that my next post would be a picture of Brett, I'm thinking he wouldn't appreciate a picture of him with his mouth open sleeping! hahaha! So, you'll all just have to wait on a picture, but I promise he looks great ;-)
Today was so very odd, but absolutely wonderful. It started with a phonecall from Brett saying that he'd be in on a flight around 1pm-and then I tried to go back to sleep, which was somewhat successful-but my sleep was interrupted by thunderstorms! Seriously!
Washington just about never has lightening or thunder ( something I greatly miss)...but today we enjoyed several hours of hard rain and thunder and lightening to start the day.
So I sat on my balcony and did my quiet time, all the while watching the rain come down. I then remembered what God promised me before Brett's deployment....that even in the midst of the desert He would provide His Rain...and no matter how hard and "drought" like it got-He would provide! And lookie here! He did! That hard downpour of rain this morning was a good reminder of all the many things He's gotten us through in the past eight month, very neat! And how eternally grateful I am to Him for helping us through some pretty tough times.
Anyway, by the time I got the airport ( I almost cried several times on the way...just thinking about seeing Brett) I was about to burst-and even though they let me back to the gates so I could meet Brett straight away...I had to wait behind a bunch of line-skipper-flight-attendants! It was pretty much the worst moment of waiting in the history of man, but I finally got through, and while I was not there to see Brett get off the plane I was there in time to meet him at the end of a long walk way and make one of those TOTALLY cliche moments where we run and we hug and everyone around you KNOW is totally looking at you ( the guy in the army uniform and the girl in the short dress (hehe!)...but WHO CARES?!
In those few moments it was as if the greatest weight had been lifted! And it was like all the things that I knew and loved about Brett plus a whole bunch of things that I actually FORGOT I loved about him came flooding back....
greatness.
And you know what? I really hope none of you have to be away from your spouse for a long period of time...but if you DO...let me promise you that seeing them again after a long separation is pretty darn cool. So keep your chin up! After 247 days in a row of not seeing each other, we're back down to zero. Just the way I like it.
P.S. He's still snoring.
Today was so very odd, but absolutely wonderful. It started with a phonecall from Brett saying that he'd be in on a flight around 1pm-and then I tried to go back to sleep, which was somewhat successful-but my sleep was interrupted by thunderstorms! Seriously!
Washington just about never has lightening or thunder ( something I greatly miss)...but today we enjoyed several hours of hard rain and thunder and lightening to start the day.
So I sat on my balcony and did my quiet time, all the while watching the rain come down. I then remembered what God promised me before Brett's deployment....that even in the midst of the desert He would provide His Rain...and no matter how hard and "drought" like it got-He would provide! And lookie here! He did! That hard downpour of rain this morning was a good reminder of all the many things He's gotten us through in the past eight month, very neat! And how eternally grateful I am to Him for helping us through some pretty tough times.
Anyway, by the time I got the airport ( I almost cried several times on the way...just thinking about seeing Brett) I was about to burst-and even though they let me back to the gates so I could meet Brett straight away...I had to wait behind a bunch of line-skipper-flight-attendants! It was pretty much the worst moment of waiting in the history of man, but I finally got through, and while I was not there to see Brett get off the plane I was there in time to meet him at the end of a long walk way and make one of those TOTALLY cliche moments where we run and we hug and everyone around you KNOW is totally looking at you ( the guy in the army uniform and the girl in the short dress (hehe!)...but WHO CARES?!
In those few moments it was as if the greatest weight had been lifted! And it was like all the things that I knew and loved about Brett plus a whole bunch of things that I actually FORGOT I loved about him came flooding back....
greatness.
And you know what? I really hope none of you have to be away from your spouse for a long period of time...but if you DO...let me promise you that seeing them again after a long separation is pretty darn cool. So keep your chin up! After 247 days in a row of not seeing each other, we're back down to zero. Just the way I like it.
P.S. He's still snoring.
Tomorrow?
Baring any changes ( and that's a big IF when the army +summer travel are concerned), I should be getting to see my husband tomorrow....
Its been 247 days since I saw Brett.
Whoa.
Anyway, tomorrow hopefully we'll break this particular streak...and I'm going to go ahead and say right now that I pray we never have to go that long without seeing each other again. Its pretty much awful.
And yes, he'll have to leave again in 15 days, but it won't be for as long...and to be honest I am blown away that we've done it! We made it! We made it 8 months!
How blessed we have been...and I'm going to restrain myself from waxing eloquent for the moment since he's not exactly HERE yet...and the army has taught me to never count your eggs before they hatch.
That being said, thank you to all of you who have prayed for me and for Brett in the past month. Its been needed, and those prayers were definitely answered. And even today, today as a nervously wait for Brett to visit-I feel God's grace.
Now let's just hope the next post on this blog will be a picture of Brett! :-)
Its been 247 days since I saw Brett.
Whoa.
Anyway, tomorrow hopefully we'll break this particular streak...and I'm going to go ahead and say right now that I pray we never have to go that long without seeing each other again. Its pretty much awful.
And yes, he'll have to leave again in 15 days, but it won't be for as long...and to be honest I am blown away that we've done it! We made it! We made it 8 months!
How blessed we have been...and I'm going to restrain myself from waxing eloquent for the moment since he's not exactly HERE yet...and the army has taught me to never count your eggs before they hatch.
That being said, thank you to all of you who have prayed for me and for Brett in the past month. Its been needed, and those prayers were definitely answered. And even today, today as a nervously wait for Brett to visit-I feel God's grace.
Now let's just hope the next post on this blog will be a picture of Brett! :-)
July 09, 2009
SpongeBob Square Pants
Day two of the babysitting. Today was better than yesterday for one major reason. I had much more sleep. This is a bit disturbing for several reasons, but mostly because I hear parents are always sleep deprived. It seems pretty awful of God to give a person the most important job they'll ever have and then take away their sleep at the same time....terrible. I've already made several proclamations mostly to the tune of:
"I'm never having FOUR children ( all at once, varying in age)." ( Angelina Jolie is crazy!)
But other than that it's been pretty good! I'm also terribly grateful to Twitter, Facebook and text messages...no wonder I know so many moms who do those things...it definitely kept me from totally going crazy to feel like I could 'talk' to adults during the day-even if it was just a twitter saying that I was at the park...again. Yup, technology is the greatest. And I understand all the buzz about "mommy networks" on the internet being such a big deal I can definitely see the benefits.
In other news...I heard from Brett-in a terrible connection...i hate the bad connections. And it looks like I'll be waiting for several more days before I get to see him. *sigh* Please be praying that his travels go smoothly ( and FAST!) ...
"I'm never having FOUR children ( all at once, varying in age)." ( Angelina Jolie is crazy!)
But other than that it's been pretty good! I'm also terribly grateful to Twitter, Facebook and text messages...no wonder I know so many moms who do those things...it definitely kept me from totally going crazy to feel like I could 'talk' to adults during the day-even if it was just a twitter saying that I was at the park...again. Yup, technology is the greatest. And I understand all the buzz about "mommy networks" on the internet being such a big deal I can definitely see the benefits.
In other news...I heard from Brett-in a terrible connection...i hate the bad connections. And it looks like I'll be waiting for several more days before I get to see him. *sigh* Please be praying that his travels go smoothly ( and FAST!) ...
July 07, 2009
Rinse, Repeat.
Sometimes my quiet time, which usually consists of readings for several different books, as I make my way through the Bible, will speak to me on a certain topic in every single section of reading....I love it when this happens, because it helps get the message through my thick skull...
The Lord is good to those who wait for him, to the soul who seeks Him. It is good that one should wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord. Lam 3:25-26
But though he cause grief, he will have compassion according to the abundance of his steadfast love, for he does not willingly afflict or grieve the children of men. Lam 3:32-33
Will the Lord spurn me forever?....Had his steadfast love forever ceased?.....Has God forgotten to be gracious?...."
I will remember the deeds of the Lord, yes, I will will remember your wonders of old!" Ps: 77:7,8,11
Be Patient, therefore, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruits, being patient. You also be patient about it, until it receives the early and the late rains.....as an example of suffering and patience, brothers take the prophets who spoke the name of the Lord. Behold, we consider those blessed who remained steadfast. You have heard of the steadfastness of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful. James 5:7, 11
The Lord is good to those who wait for him, to the soul who seeks Him. It is good that one should wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord. Lam 3:25-26
But though he cause grief, he will have compassion according to the abundance of his steadfast love, for he does not willingly afflict or grieve the children of men. Lam 3:32-33
Will the Lord spurn me forever?....Had his steadfast love forever ceased?.....Has God forgotten to be gracious?...."
I will remember the deeds of the Lord, yes, I will will remember your wonders of old!" Ps: 77:7,8,11
Be Patient, therefore, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruits, being patient. You also be patient about it, until it receives the early and the late rains.....as an example of suffering and patience, brothers take the prophets who spoke the name of the Lord. Behold, we consider those blessed who remained steadfast. You have heard of the steadfastness of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful. James 5:7, 11
out with the laundry
For the past few days I've been opening up my blogger window with all the intent to blog and then my thoughts get so out of hand that after several run-on sentences ( even longer than my usual run-ons) I give up...However, I feel like you all deserve to share in the latest news so I'll push on through...
Fourth of July, Independence Day....totally my favorite holiday. I love it. Its summer. Its patriotic. There are flags, fireworks, yummy foods, warm weather...seriously. What's not to love? The town I live in continues to be the greatest town ( minus that silly no grocery store thing) by putting on a Fourth Celebration in the park across from my apartment. Quite literally I could sit on my balcony and watch the parade go by and then listen to the Elvis impersonator sing...and the day ended well with a party at Amy's...where we fed people yummy food and I held a sweaty baby....all in all a good time. But, then there was the fireworks...which I love, and Steilacoom continues to be the best "small town" fireworks I've yet to see....right on Puget Sound, so that you can see all the other town's, that surround the Sound, firework shows off in the distant. grand.
But you know what's really grand? What's really grand is that I was able to keep saying to myself in my head, 'This time next week Brett might be here!"
I can't even tell you how awesome that sentence is....
And today, today I actually unpacked some of his clothes and did some washing....I definitely recommend the packing away of your husbands clothing before he departs for year-because seeing his clothes is pretty hard on a person. I had no idea how much I've missed him...or rather...how much I have actively, with every fiber of my being, tired NOT to miss him.
Hard work.
But, before we get all super excited and gitty-let's not forget that this week I'm baby-sitting four children for two days and two nights-ages 13 to 3....their parents tell me that I'm getting treasure in heaven by doing this for them, but let me just go ahead and say that NORMALLY I'd be getting nice treasure in heaven for such a task, but on the WEEK that my husband comes home on R&R after not seeing him for 8 months...honestly, I don't know what kind of BONUS treasure they give out in heaven...but I feel like I'm in the running for some it.
Today I was ALL over the place. I had a long list of things to do, mostly cleaning type things...and for the most part I feel like the day was super productive, but then every so often I'll get this feeling in my stomach like I've forgotten something...and then I'll remember. I'll remember what I've been trying to forget for months on end, I'll remember that which I've actually let myself remember starting this week....something I'll have to start trying to forget again in just a few weeks...but for now, for now I'll remember...
Fourth of July, Independence Day....totally my favorite holiday. I love it. Its summer. Its patriotic. There are flags, fireworks, yummy foods, warm weather...seriously. What's not to love? The town I live in continues to be the greatest town ( minus that silly no grocery store thing) by putting on a Fourth Celebration in the park across from my apartment. Quite literally I could sit on my balcony and watch the parade go by and then listen to the Elvis impersonator sing...and the day ended well with a party at Amy's...where we fed people yummy food and I held a sweaty baby....all in all a good time. But, then there was the fireworks...which I love, and Steilacoom continues to be the best "small town" fireworks I've yet to see....right on Puget Sound, so that you can see all the other town's, that surround the Sound, firework shows off in the distant. grand.
But you know what's really grand? What's really grand is that I was able to keep saying to myself in my head, 'This time next week Brett might be here!"
I can't even tell you how awesome that sentence is....
And today, today I actually unpacked some of his clothes and did some washing....I definitely recommend the packing away of your husbands clothing before he departs for year-because seeing his clothes is pretty hard on a person. I had no idea how much I've missed him...or rather...how much I have actively, with every fiber of my being, tired NOT to miss him.
Hard work.
But, before we get all super excited and gitty-let's not forget that this week I'm baby-sitting four children for two days and two nights-ages 13 to 3....their parents tell me that I'm getting treasure in heaven by doing this for them, but let me just go ahead and say that NORMALLY I'd be getting nice treasure in heaven for such a task, but on the WEEK that my husband comes home on R&R after not seeing him for 8 months...honestly, I don't know what kind of BONUS treasure they give out in heaven...but I feel like I'm in the running for some it.
Today I was ALL over the place. I had a long list of things to do, mostly cleaning type things...and for the most part I feel like the day was super productive, but then every so often I'll get this feeling in my stomach like I've forgotten something...and then I'll remember. I'll remember what I've been trying to forget for months on end, I'll remember that which I've actually let myself remember starting this week....something I'll have to start trying to forget again in just a few weeks...but for now, for now I'll remember...
July 03, 2009
Definition
Apricate, meaning to bask in the sun.
This is a word that I learned yesterday from the book I'm currently
reading, and it pretty much discribes today perfectly.
Sent from my iPhone
July 01, 2009
A girls summer refrigerator
Since Linds moved in with me a few months ago I had to make some adjustments in the Fridge to make room for the exta food that was added with the extra mouth to feed...thus certain things had to be moved into the, perviously unused vegetable drawer*
*It should be noted that since Brett left, I've been almost a full time vegetarian, so I actually eat a lot of veggies...I just choose to not keep them in the drawer. It seems that "out of sight, out of mind" is very much the case when it comes to all foods for me...however, its not so much the case when it comes to Diet Coke. For it is the nectar of life. haha!
*It should be noted that since Brett left, I've been almost a full time vegetarian, so I actually eat a lot of veggies...I just choose to not keep them in the drawer. It seems that "out of sight, out of mind" is very much the case when it comes to all foods for me...however, its not so much the case when it comes to Diet Coke. For it is the nectar of life. haha!
A little gift
So, I started a new book this afternoon...its another book from my list, and my library just so happen to have it sitting on its shelves ( normally I have to request books and get them in a few days time), so it seemed destine that this be the next book that I read...its called " Reading the OED: One Man, One Year, 21,730 Pages" ( OED stands for Oxford English Dictionary for those of you who aren't bookish)....
Anyway, in the process of reading the first two chapters I've come to realize something about my style of reading...one of the things I do to gauge ( usually this is all done subconsciously) if a book is good or not, is if I can think of someone who I think would also like it. Would this book make a good gift? A good recommendation? A good doorstop?
If I find that book cannot fit into any of these categories for anyone that I know that ultimately I'm not that excited about it.
Thankfully, this current read has me thinking of several people already...
more to come...
Anyway, in the process of reading the first two chapters I've come to realize something about my style of reading...one of the things I do to gauge ( usually this is all done subconsciously) if a book is good or not, is if I can think of someone who I think would also like it. Would this book make a good gift? A good recommendation? A good doorstop?
If I find that book cannot fit into any of these categories for anyone that I know that ultimately I'm not that excited about it.
Thankfully, this current read has me thinking of several people already...
more to come...
June 30, 2009
Pride and Prejudice and Zombies
This book was sent to me by my dear friend Amy K.. It seems rather fitting that of my friends, Amy would send me this little number, since Amy's always had a particular sense of humor that...well...is fitting to this book. Hehe!
Anyway, so basically, if you've read Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen than you've got a pretty good handle on this book too...its the same characters, the same general plot line, except that everything has a mean twist. And by mean, I am basically saying mean. Characters that where subtly unkind to one another in the original novel ( i.e. Mr. Bennet/Mrs. Bennet's relationship...Lady Catherine and Elizabeth) are full of outright unkindness and cruel remarks and bloody fighting.
In fact, there is soooo much violence in this book, that I couldn't read it in long sections or I too ( like many of the characters within) would have considered vomiting.
Of course, what is to be expected of a book that is not Just about the coupling of singles...but also very much about the fighting of the Undead? Zombies. Seriously.
My positive review- without giving anything away, are the plot twists that include Charlotte Lucus, and Mr. Wickham-for they where particularly satisfying.
My Negative review-is mostly that this book is not for everyone...and while its incredibly clever in mixing a Classic novel with the current rage in todays culture for blood, guts and all things crude...I personally would not recommend it to the faint of heart.
All that being said, this book was positively genius in doing exactly what Jane Austen did in her time-which was to comment on society and its particular quirks towards decorum and what is important- and to do the exact same thing but with todays society and its particular quirks. This book does a great job of poking fun at the millions and millions of horror movies that seem to come out every weekend, it makes fun of the silly vampire/goblins phenomenon that seems to be running rampant among the youth of this nation.....no matter HOW badly written, it seems that if its about a handsome vampire-then we're all in. Unbelievable. Almost as unbelievable as this book, in fact. In the end "Pride and Prejudice and Zombies" was much better written then the "Twilight Series" could ever hope to be....but then, again, that's not saying much-is it? ;-)
Anyway, so basically, if you've read Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen than you've got a pretty good handle on this book too...its the same characters, the same general plot line, except that everything has a mean twist. And by mean, I am basically saying mean. Characters that where subtly unkind to one another in the original novel ( i.e. Mr. Bennet/Mrs. Bennet's relationship...Lady Catherine and Elizabeth) are full of outright unkindness and cruel remarks and bloody fighting.
In fact, there is soooo much violence in this book, that I couldn't read it in long sections or I too ( like many of the characters within) would have considered vomiting.
Of course, what is to be expected of a book that is not Just about the coupling of singles...but also very much about the fighting of the Undead? Zombies. Seriously.
My positive review- without giving anything away, are the plot twists that include Charlotte Lucus, and Mr. Wickham-for they where particularly satisfying.
My Negative review-is mostly that this book is not for everyone...and while its incredibly clever in mixing a Classic novel with the current rage in todays culture for blood, guts and all things crude...I personally would not recommend it to the faint of heart.
All that being said, this book was positively genius in doing exactly what Jane Austen did in her time-which was to comment on society and its particular quirks towards decorum and what is important- and to do the exact same thing but with todays society and its particular quirks. This book does a great job of poking fun at the millions and millions of horror movies that seem to come out every weekend, it makes fun of the silly vampire/goblins phenomenon that seems to be running rampant among the youth of this nation.....no matter HOW badly written, it seems that if its about a handsome vampire-then we're all in. Unbelievable. Almost as unbelievable as this book, in fact. In the end "Pride and Prejudice and Zombies" was much better written then the "Twilight Series" could ever hope to be....but then, again, that's not saying much-is it? ;-)
goodbyes
Today I dropped my friend Katie off at the airport. This was a particularly sad moment for me, since Katie was my very first friend in Washington. Even before Brett and I got married, I heard about Katie and her husband Mike, who Brett had met and subsequently moved into an apartment near theirs. Thus, my first introduction of Katie was just how very helpful she was in getting my ( future) husband situated. In fact, if it had not been for Katie's "gentle nudgings", when Brett and I got married we would have had no bed to sleep in...or couch to sit on...or table to eat at. Basically, Katie helped set up house before I even arrived! This would be worthy of thanks in itself-but ultimately Katie's friendship has meant far more to me in my first ( and second) years of marriage. She is truly a sister who I could NOT have made it through the roller coaster ride of marriage, a new state, a new city, a new roll ( as a wife), and a new ministry here in Washington. And now she ( and soon her hubby, once the silly army gets around to letting him follow!) is starting in on a new adventure in the Kentucky region -where soon she'll be a mommy!
Of course, I'm saying all sorts of prayers as they head out on this big adventure, but selfishly, I'm a bit sad....yet, also terribly grateful for the time I did get with Katie....whoever gets her as a friend next is a lucky duck!
June 27, 2009
Opening the Vault: July 19, 2004
So, I can't sleep...this is annoying since I went to be early for the specific reason of getting lots and lots of "healing" sleep...arg! Anyway, while I'm up I'll share another old post from my blog circa 2004...and after you read it also bare in mind this piece of truth:
Now, five years later I can honestly say I do not really know why I was in so much anguish and sadness that particular night...I mean, I can guess...but I'd only be guessing...because, see? Somethings do fade....
Now, five years later I can honestly say I do not really know why I was in so much anguish and sadness that particular night...I mean, I can guess...but I'd only be guessing...because, see? Somethings do fade....
Monday, July 19, 2004
So, I know that the quote at the top of my blog as been there for a long time-in fact a few times I have thought about putting up a different one-but then I go back and I read it again,
" God does not open paths for us before we come to them, or provide help before help is needed. Yet when we are at our point of need, God's hand is outstretched.~ Unknown"
and I am just encouraged again.
I also think the quote has been SO true in my life, so many times that has happened for me, it really is perfect to discribe what my life is about-therefore what my blog is about.
In the past few days I have been thinking specifically of the idea of the "point of need"...usually the point of need is not the happiest of places-Personally at the moment I am crying on my bed...and not just tears but actually crying OUT....it is that place where you are totally STUCK for some reason or another. The all important part of the quote "God's hand is outstretched" is really the key and yet I dont think I really got it the first time I read it, or even the second- Because, I the first thing that came into my head when I read that, is that God just helps you out of the situation. Done deal. But, these past few days I have been thinking about it and I realized that is rarely the way. It just doesnt always work out: Problem, solution, problem, solution...
I realized that the best part of this quote is what it implies: God takes your hand and LEADS YOU....He does provide help, but it's still a battle...the sting is still there, you still have tears running down your face, except this time God is holding your hand, He is providing you with a friend, providing you with His word of Truth, providing you with a situation that gives relief...all things that never meant quite as much as they do in that moment of need.
I think so many times-especially in this day and time-we are taught that when we become Christians we will be safe and sound-peachy keen...not true. We are also taught to expect results quickly, sort of like fastfood-if it doesnt come in 5 minutes it should totally be free...I have been reminded once again that God isnt like that at all-infact, many times at the point of need we are not even given relief right away...no, instead we are just given PROMISE of relief....wait, strike that-we ARE given relief right away...infact, it has already been given. Jesus died for us. THAT was the ultimate relief for all our sins, for all our grief, for all our points of need. *sigh* so THATS why that quote is going to stay there a little bit longer.
a ball of tissue
Sooooo....let's seeeeee what's happened in the past few days? Well, for one thing I've gone through a box and a half of tissues. And while, yesterday, I seemed SO much better-I guess my body was just being a trickster because my nose and throat have reached new levels of grossness. Lovely.
But even in the midst of me not getting much done because of the blowing of the nose action, I am starting, with much trepidation, to get excited about Brett's upcoming R&R ( rest and relaxation, and for those of you who have come to me with confusion...this, sadly, does not mean that Brett is coming home for good...nope, he's coming home for 15 days....just long enough for me to get good and attached to him before he goes back to A-stan for another four and half months....but believe me I'll take it!!!)...so even though every part of my military-minded-mind is telling me that NO! IT MIGHT NOT HAPPEN! DONT GET TOO EXCITED! THE DATES COULD CHANGE! THINGS COULD HAPPEN!!
I realized that a teeny tiny bit of the funk of been experiencing of late has been due to me being all nervous-y about this leave time...I mean, GEEZ...it's been SEVEN months since of seen my husband...and while I've seen pictures to prove that he's as hot as ever, and I've heard his voice most days to remind me that its still as deep as ever....it'll just be weird for him to come crash this little "party" I've been livin' in for the past while....don't get me wrong, I'm GLAD! But its weird.
For my readers who have been separated from their spouses for any long length of time, I'm sure you know what I'm talking about...its this strange factor that you must fight against...and for those of you who DON'T know what I'm talking about...May you never understand.
Anyway, so to combat all the mental gymnastics my mind is going through, I've decided to throw caution to the wind and just GET EXCITED! Because, seriously? How much do I miss Brett?! ( a lot)
And how LONG have the past seven months been?! ( long)
And how silly is it to be married and not get all the benefits of having someone else take out the trash? ( really silly)
Just ( partly) kidding about the last thing...
But even in the midst of me not getting much done because of the blowing of the nose action, I am starting, with much trepidation, to get excited about Brett's upcoming R&R ( rest and relaxation, and for those of you who have come to me with confusion...this, sadly, does not mean that Brett is coming home for good...nope, he's coming home for 15 days....just long enough for me to get good and attached to him before he goes back to A-stan for another four and half months....but believe me I'll take it!!!)...so even though every part of my military-minded-mind is telling me that NO! IT MIGHT NOT HAPPEN! DONT GET TOO EXCITED! THE DATES COULD CHANGE! THINGS COULD HAPPEN!!
I realized that a teeny tiny bit of the funk of been experiencing of late has been due to me being all nervous-y about this leave time...I mean, GEEZ...it's been SEVEN months since of seen my husband...and while I've seen pictures to prove that he's as hot as ever, and I've heard his voice most days to remind me that its still as deep as ever....it'll just be weird for him to come crash this little "party" I've been livin' in for the past while....don't get me wrong, I'm GLAD! But its weird.
For my readers who have been separated from their spouses for any long length of time, I'm sure you know what I'm talking about...its this strange factor that you must fight against...and for those of you who DON'T know what I'm talking about...May you never understand.
Anyway, so to combat all the mental gymnastics my mind is going through, I've decided to throw caution to the wind and just GET EXCITED! Because, seriously? How much do I miss Brett?! ( a lot)
And how LONG have the past seven months been?! ( long)
And how silly is it to be married and not get all the benefits of having someone else take out the trash? ( really silly)
Just ( partly) kidding about the last thing...
June 25, 2009
getting my barrings
I'm feeling a little better today, although I keep getting light-headed and dizzy every time I turn my head quickly or stand up. According to my nurse roommate maybe this is an inner-ear infection or something weird. Awesome. Just what I wanted.
Anyway, my quiet time this morning offered some encouraging morsels:
"Rain in abundance, O God, you shed abroad you restored your inheritance as it languished." Ps 68:9
"By faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. "
Romans 5:2-5
Anyway, my quiet time this morning offered some encouraging morsels:
"Rain in abundance, O God, you shed abroad you restored your inheritance as it languished." Ps 68:9
"By faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. "
Romans 5:2-5
June 24, 2009
A "summer" cold
I woke up this morning with a hardcore sore throat followed by a runny nose all day...I only say "summer" in quotes because its NOT really that warm outside.
This cold is disappointing because, honestly, other than the times I been to Texas, I haven't been sick much this year. Typical! I would get sick right before Brett comes home for his two week break. Rgh!
Let's hope this cold goes fast!
This cold is disappointing because, honestly, other than the times I been to Texas, I haven't been sick much this year. Typical! I would get sick right before Brett comes home for his two week break. Rgh!
Let's hope this cold goes fast!
June 23, 2009
How emotional are you? I know most of you who have read my blog for any length of time will laugh at me when I say I feel like I'm somewhere in the middle of emotionalism...I say this because I've got friends who are WAY dramatic and who-no matter what-are always going through huge emotional issues:
LIFE IS SO UNCERTAIN!! LIFE IS WONDERFUL AND IS EVERYTHING I COULD EVER HOPE FOR! LIFE IS HARD AND UNBELIEVABLY DIFFICULT TO FIGURE OUT!!!
I love these friends because they are so dang honest about how they are feeling at all times. I'm pretty sure they COULDN'T lie about it even if they tried....
Then I've got the other side of the coin. They always sound about like this. Everythingsfine. Everythingsfine. Everythingsfine. Itwasagoodday. Itwasabadday. Everythingsfine. Everythingsfine.
Its a little bit harder to distinguish what is going on deep in side of this type of a person, but you better believe that just because they don't talk or live their lives in All-Caps, it doesn't mean that their emotions don't swing. That some days they don't have a better grasp on their goals, a better feeling about where they fit in the grand scheme of things. And if they are followers of Christ then I bet we can ALL relate ( whether we're ALLCAPS people or if we're runonsentence people) to how some days we feel closer to God and have a greater understanding of Who He is and What He wants for our lives, and some days we're doubting just about EVERYTHING we've ever heard Him say to us. Ever.
This morning while Brett and I were praying together on the phone ( I highly recommend this....if there is anything I regret about this deployment its how little we have prayed together on the phone, considering how much we need prayer.), I was struck with a better understanding of the verse;
"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever." Heb 13:8 ....
I was encouraged that this means He is the same no matter how I may be "feeling". People, whether you've been a Christian two days of twenty year there are Truths that do not change depending on how you are. I think sometimes we get this feeling that Christ's love is dependent on what we do or don't do. That Christ's grasp on our situation is dependent on Just how bad it is ( if its a little problem, YOU can take care of it...if its a BIG problem, maybe you'll hand it over to God and cross your fingers and hope for the best..), That Christ's Understanding and Help is directly connected to whether we feel like we deserve it or feel it.
False, False, False.
His love and acceptance , His knowledge of our lives, His complete control over situations and circumstances, His ability to save us from ourselves, all of these things are absolute and complete ALL THE TIME.
Today you might not be feeling it, you're emotions might be high, they might be low...or they might be smack dab in the middle ( like always! haha!), you might be not particularly interested in God or you might be wishing that you COULD some how get and Him through all the mess stacked up around you....no matter what, I promise you He is the Same. He is with us and For us.
He is at the Right Hand of the Father (Acts 2:33 ) right now...making our Case for us, Fighting for us. (Heb 7:25)
LIFE IS SO UNCERTAIN!! LIFE IS WONDERFUL AND IS EVERYTHING I COULD EVER HOPE FOR! LIFE IS HARD AND UNBELIEVABLY DIFFICULT TO FIGURE OUT!!!
I love these friends because they are so dang honest about how they are feeling at all times. I'm pretty sure they COULDN'T lie about it even if they tried....
Then I've got the other side of the coin. They always sound about like this. Everythingsfine. Everythingsfine. Everythingsfine. Itwasagoodday. Itwasabadday. Everythingsfine. Everythingsfine.
Its a little bit harder to distinguish what is going on deep in side of this type of a person, but you better believe that just because they don't talk or live their lives in All-Caps, it doesn't mean that their emotions don't swing. That some days they don't have a better grasp on their goals, a better feeling about where they fit in the grand scheme of things. And if they are followers of Christ then I bet we can ALL relate ( whether we're ALLCAPS people or if we're runonsentence people) to how some days we feel closer to God and have a greater understanding of Who He is and What He wants for our lives, and some days we're doubting just about EVERYTHING we've ever heard Him say to us. Ever.
This morning while Brett and I were praying together on the phone ( I highly recommend this....if there is anything I regret about this deployment its how little we have prayed together on the phone, considering how much we need prayer.), I was struck with a better understanding of the verse;
"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever." Heb 13:8 ....
I was encouraged that this means He is the same no matter how I may be "feeling". People, whether you've been a Christian two days of twenty year there are Truths that do not change depending on how you are. I think sometimes we get this feeling that Christ's love is dependent on what we do or don't do. That Christ's grasp on our situation is dependent on Just how bad it is ( if its a little problem, YOU can take care of it...if its a BIG problem, maybe you'll hand it over to God and cross your fingers and hope for the best..), That Christ's Understanding and Help is directly connected to whether we feel like we deserve it or feel it.
False, False, False.
His love and acceptance , His knowledge of our lives, His complete control over situations and circumstances, His ability to save us from ourselves, all of these things are absolute and complete ALL THE TIME.
Today you might not be feeling it, you're emotions might be high, they might be low...or they might be smack dab in the middle ( like always! haha!), you might be not particularly interested in God or you might be wishing that you COULD some how get and Him through all the mess stacked up around you....no matter what, I promise you He is the Same. He is with us and For us.
He is at the Right Hand of the Father (Acts 2:33 ) right now...making our Case for us, Fighting for us. (Heb 7:25)
June 20, 2009
June 18, 2009
Christmas in June
This week has been quite the week for surprises! I wonder if my mail woman is wondering what's going on...
On Monday, Brett sent me roses and chocolates ( awwwww!)
And then today I opened my mail box to find the little key that means that there is a package for you in one of the bigger boxes underneath and low and behold there was not one and not two, but THREE packages!
A fun little cupcake decorating kit from Katie that she got from Bakeitpretty.com, which couldn't have COME at a better time, since I just so HAPPEN to have a party on Saturday that I need to bring something, I'm thinking cupcakes are now in order!
I also received books from Amy K.-one of which is on my list that is on my sidebar, of books I plan on reading. ( as well as a book for Brett, that I'm pretty sure, from the cover alone, he's gonna love) This also came at a the perfect moment since I just came to the end of a book and I was at a quandary of what to read next!
And THEN I got a package from my parents... presents from Russia from my Papa*, for Brett and I as well as a T-shirt and CD that I had requested my Mom pick up for me from a band that I knew was playing in my home town a few weekends ago and I've been wanting their CD for a while now....( incidentally, Darcy is just quirky enough and clever enough for me to tell you all it'll be a treat if you ever get the chance to hear them play or get your hands on a CD. )...this ALSO came a just the right moment, because I was having trouble deciding what to wear today since the tempature can't seem to decide if its Spring or Summer-meaning you need a jacket, scarf, tanktop and a pull over shirt.....just so that you can be ready for any weather changes....so the beautiful scarf he sent was PERFECT*
So, anyway! Today was lovely...I had Thai Food with Tina where we talked about Tithing ( among other things, but that alliteration is hard to pass up!) and then walked around Olympia WA-which is quickly becoming my favorite day trip...with all its boutiques and waterfront views and cafes and teashops, you can't go wrong!
And now I'm sitting on my balcony in a perfect sliver of afternoon sun, waiting on Katie so that we can go see the newest Pixar movie UP ( I know, I'm a bit behind, but better late than never!)
I will now leave you with the self-portrait that I tried to take of myself in my new scarf! hahaha! Very artsy don't you think?!
On Monday, Brett sent me roses and chocolates ( awwwww!)
And then today I opened my mail box to find the little key that means that there is a package for you in one of the bigger boxes underneath and low and behold there was not one and not two, but THREE packages!
A fun little cupcake decorating kit from Katie that she got from Bakeitpretty.com, which couldn't have COME at a better time, since I just so HAPPEN to have a party on Saturday that I need to bring something, I'm thinking cupcakes are now in order!
I also received books from Amy K.-one of which is on my list that is on my sidebar, of books I plan on reading. ( as well as a book for Brett, that I'm pretty sure, from the cover alone, he's gonna love) This also came at a the perfect moment since I just came to the end of a book and I was at a quandary of what to read next!
And THEN I got a package from my parents... presents from Russia from my Papa*, for Brett and I as well as a T-shirt and CD that I had requested my Mom pick up for me from a band that I knew was playing in my home town a few weekends ago and I've been wanting their CD for a while now....( incidentally, Darcy is just quirky enough and clever enough for me to tell you all it'll be a treat if you ever get the chance to hear them play or get your hands on a CD. )...this ALSO came a just the right moment, because I was having trouble deciding what to wear today since the tempature can't seem to decide if its Spring or Summer-meaning you need a jacket, scarf, tanktop and a pull over shirt.....just so that you can be ready for any weather changes....so the beautiful scarf he sent was PERFECT*
So, anyway! Today was lovely...I had Thai Food with Tina where we talked about Tithing ( among other things, but that alliteration is hard to pass up!) and then walked around Olympia WA-which is quickly becoming my favorite day trip...with all its boutiques and waterfront views and cafes and teashops, you can't go wrong!
And now I'm sitting on my balcony in a perfect sliver of afternoon sun, waiting on Katie so that we can go see the newest Pixar movie UP ( I know, I'm a bit behind, but better late than never!)
I will now leave you with the self-portrait that I tried to take of myself in my new scarf! hahaha! Very artsy don't you think?!
June 16, 2009
Abigail, don't forget about Time.
Sweet is the feeling of renewed ( or should I say "renewing") Hope that the past few days have brought along with the sunrise. Seriously, I'm writing this now because I'm sure one of these days ( hopefully not soon?!?) I'll feel this down and hopeless again and I'll need to be reminded of the time that it takes to climb up out of such a place. But, that's the thing! I think we wish it didn't take time, that instead we could say a prayer, snap our fingers and get back up. We wish those prayers for help would be answered with a reassuring hug from Jesus, and maybe a card with a printed list( maybe written in something fancy like calligraphy) of just HOW things are going to be get back to being awesome. But instead we have to wait. Such desperate prayers are usually just answered by silence. But is it? Is it really silent?
I think not...
If everything comes down to love
Then just what am I afraid of
When I call out Your name
Something inside awakes in my soul
How quickly I forget I'm Yours
I'm not my own
I've been carried by You
All my life
Everything rides on hope now
Everything rides on faith somehow
When the world has broken me down
This love sets me free
When my life is like a storm
Rising waters all I want is the shore
You say I'll be ok and
Make it through the rain
You are my shelter from the storm
And everything rides on hope now
And everything rides on faith somehow
When the world has broken me down
This love sets me free
You've become my hearts desire
I will sing Your praises higher
Cause Your love sets me free
Your love sets me free
Your love sets me free
I'm not my own
I've been carried by You
All my life
Everything rides on hope now
Everything rides on faith somehow
When the world has broken me down
This love sets me free
This love sets me free
Your love sets me free
I think not...
If everything comes down to love
Then just what am I afraid of
When I call out Your name
Something inside awakes in my soul
How quickly I forget I'm Yours
I'm not my own
I've been carried by You
All my life
Everything rides on hope now
Everything rides on faith somehow
When the world has broken me down
This love sets me free
When my life is like a storm
Rising waters all I want is the shore
You say I'll be ok and
Make it through the rain
You are my shelter from the storm
And everything rides on hope now
And everything rides on faith somehow
When the world has broken me down
This love sets me free
You've become my hearts desire
I will sing Your praises higher
Cause Your love sets me free
Your love sets me free
Your love sets me free
I'm not my own
I've been carried by You
All my life
Everything rides on hope now
Everything rides on faith somehow
When the world has broken me down
This love sets me free
This love sets me free
Your love sets me free
Books I'm reading...
This is the list of books that I'm currently working through reading. If it has a line through it, then it most likely also has a review attached to it as well! You can click on the book and it'll take you to my review ( for what it's worth!)
I am also always in the market for new books to sink my teeth in to, so please, share the love...leave me a comment with books you think I should read! I'm always game!
I am also always in the market for new books to sink my teeth in to, so please, share the love...leave me a comment with books you think I should read! I'm always game!
This is the list of books that I'm currently working through reading. If it has a line through it, then it most likely also has a review attached to it as well! You can click on the book and it'll take you to my review ( for what it's worth!)
I am also always in the market for new books to sink my teeth in to, so please, share the love...leave me a comment with books you think I should read! I'm always game!
I am also always in the market for new books to sink my teeth in to, so please, share the love...leave me a comment with books you think I should read! I'm always game!
June 15, 2009
Eating up my time...
Today I woke up, did my personal quiet time, talked to Brett on the phone for a little while, then did a bible study with Lindsay, headed to the Stroud's house where I babysat for all four of their children ( summer has a whole new meaning for me now: more work! hehe!)....where I played basketball, calmed several crying fits, watched a movie and put a three year old to sleep with the sound of my voice ( I was talking on the phone) and a backrub ( thank goodness! I support napping for ALL ages!)
I then headed to the library to pick up season 2 of West Wing ( I love how you can just request a movie or a show and they just send it to your nearest branch. like magic!) and then straight home for a shower ( umm...all that basketball made me a bit sticky! heh) and then off to eat Korean BBQ with a bunch of friends and now I'm home again!
It wasn't until right before the Korean BBQ that I realized I'd totally forgotten to eat! All day! This just about never happens...hahaha! But considering the oil and fat involved in my dinner I'd say I barely came out even....
I gotta tell you though, this busy day was an answer to prayer! I needed a day full of constant distraction...sometimes its really good for the soul! ;-)
I then headed to the library to pick up season 2 of West Wing ( I love how you can just request a movie or a show and they just send it to your nearest branch. like magic!) and then straight home for a shower ( umm...all that basketball made me a bit sticky! heh) and then off to eat Korean BBQ with a bunch of friends and now I'm home again!
It wasn't until right before the Korean BBQ that I realized I'd totally forgotten to eat! All day! This just about never happens...hahaha! But considering the oil and fat involved in my dinner I'd say I barely came out even....
I gotta tell you though, this busy day was an answer to prayer! I needed a day full of constant distraction...sometimes its really good for the soul! ;-)
June 14, 2009
Opening the Vault: June 5, 2004
Well, when I was doing a little reminiscing on my 100,000th view the other day, it got me thinking about how SAD it is that the year of 2004 version of my blog is no longer available on the internets (sic). Soooo, I've decided to periodically give you a little slice of the 2004 pie, so to speak, and let you take a journey back in time to when I was a silly university student who seemed to think life was complicated, when in actuality I had NO CLUE what complicated really meant ( hahah! how time would tell!) But, every so often that 20 year-old version of myself would say semi-funny things....like this post I bring you tonight, a post that I wrote in jest at all the books I was reading for my Rom Lit class...
Enjoy!
Enjoy!
Well, my dear friend, it is with no small joy that I write to you today. At brunch this morning, I was infinitely pleased to discover that cream cheese and croissants were on the menu. I have not the language to describe the delight and trepidations that this caused in my heart and it was well into the second course before I was able to truly recover my emotions.
I had the good fortune of attending church this morning, though the weather was far from favorable. I had feared that the cold rain and wind would severally dampen my spirits as well as my attire but, I had the honor, however, to be received into Rueben’s car halfway through my journey, thus I arrived at church without any alterations to my appearance, being saved from a very dreary walk. Providence has truly looked upon me with Mercy this day!
I also had the great joy in having an interview with my dear mother this afternoon. We were in no way brief in our discourse and it was not less than two hours before I was unengaged again. My mother always offers great relief and no small diversion when I am studying and I was, as always, most grateful for her intercourse.
I was, this afternoon, inclined to study, even for a short time, however my mind was most diverted by various thoughts and the dreariness of the weather and I was in risk of being quiet melancholy. I did collect my countenance, however and thus I found myself happily entertained in making lists of useless professions that I could acquire in the coming year when my studies have ceased. A few days previous I had written a small note to my dear friend, Sam stating my desire to become the sound technician for a local group of deaf musicians who are planning to go on tour. I found no small amusements in this jest, and therefore I was determined to continue the game.
Even before tea was being served I found myself, once again nervous and out of spirits. I was ashamed at my lack of restraint and have thus resolved myself to this letter in hopes that your love and acceptance will again remind me of my Duty to you and to those far less fortunate than myself. It is with this that I will end this letter as your most faithful humble servant, Abigail Kathryn Abt of Nacogdoches Abt family
Posted by: Abigail / 10:55 PM
June 12, 2009
Regular Scheduled Programming
I'm going to go ahead and cling to this until my fingernails give out:
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Rom 15:13
I must admit I've got really much zero joy today. And I'll also admit its kinda hard to find peace at this moment in time too, but after all the crying and the praying ( please don't ask!), it is encouraging to know that he is the "God of Hope" as in, that's His NAME! And how can I get said "hope" for myself?! Apparently by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Well, this I know must be true...since I'm not going to get it by any other way but by something that is Powerful.
He is powerful in these circumstances...the ones here today! It seems that Jesus would have it His way...not by taking away pain, but somehow giving us the ability to live through it.
I'm now incredibly dehydrated and need some sort of refreshing beverage to refill my tear ducts for another day....
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Rom 15:13
I must admit I've got really much zero joy today. And I'll also admit its kinda hard to find peace at this moment in time too, but after all the crying and the praying ( please don't ask!), it is encouraging to know that he is the "God of Hope" as in, that's His NAME! And how can I get said "hope" for myself?! Apparently by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Well, this I know must be true...since I'm not going to get it by any other way but by something that is Powerful.
He is powerful in these circumstances...the ones here today! It seems that Jesus would have it His way...not by taking away pain, but somehow giving us the ability to live through it.
I'm now incredibly dehydrated and need some sort of refreshing beverage to refill my tear ducts for another day....
one hundred thousand
Today something super exciting happened. Today I had my 100,000 view on this blog! Yay! That's exciting, isn't it? Especially since I've been blogging on a pretty regular ( sometimes obsessive) basis since May of 2003. With over 1,800 posts and over one million words I have regaled you ( or tried to) of the stories of my life....at first it was your typical life of a college student, how much sleep I wasn't getting, how many papers I had to write, what random fun I'd had with my friends, all as a way to connect my family back in the States with my life in NZ...and then we hit 2004-2005 where I went from a pretty happy go lucky girl in New Zealand to a pretty mixed up girl in Texas....looking for jobs, trying to figure out my identity, dealing with some pretty heavy emotional stuff in my every day life, all the while missing my best friends in NZ, my blog became the missing friend that I most desperately needed....then 2006 happened. You'll notice that my posts nearly doubled if you look at my archives. There is a very specific reason for this and his name is Brett.
That's right, at the end of 2005 I ran into my now-husband, Brett who I'd been "sorta" friends with in high school and we reconnected and after a few emails back and forth I started to notice that I was getting hits from an internet browser at Fort Benning, Georgia. Weeeelllll, since I didn't know anyone else at Fort Benning, GA, I put two and two together and realized that even though this guy was playing it cool in the real world, he was stalking me hot and heavy via my blog....thus the year of the subtle courtship, where I blogged just about constantly, mostly amid directly at a certain 2nd Lt. in the United States Army. So, while I give God all the credit for bringing Brett and I together, I give my blog secondary credit for giving Brett the long distance nudges that he needed. hehe.
In the years following, I have found that my blog continues to play these rolls in my life, connection to loved ones across the globe ( as well as with new friends that I've made THRU this blog!), a much needed ( have you SEEN my life?!) form of therapy when things get hard, and it continues to be a source of information for my husband, who still drops by every so often when he has time to check the internet during his deployment in Afghanistan, about my day to day life. I can honestly say, that when I started this blog in 2003, I never thought once about how long it would last or what forms it would take in my life, but from the beginning I decided I would only blog as long as it was "worth it", as long as I could and WOULD be perfectly honest about my day to day Walk in this world, most importantly my day to day struggle to follow Christ as best as I can. I have always found it very important to share when I'm feeling weak, and when I'm doubting, as well as the times that I feel blessed and encouraged. So far it has been an honor to share this part of my life with my readers ( whoever you are!), and if I could be so bold, I'd love it if you left a comment every once in a while ( on this post would be perfect), since comments are pretty much the crack of the blogging world...but, anyway, thanks again for reading my blog, whether this is your first time visiting, or you've been around from the beginning....here's to the next 100,000!
That's right, at the end of 2005 I ran into my now-husband, Brett who I'd been "sorta" friends with in high school and we reconnected and after a few emails back and forth I started to notice that I was getting hits from an internet browser at Fort Benning, Georgia. Weeeelllll, since I didn't know anyone else at Fort Benning, GA, I put two and two together and realized that even though this guy was playing it cool in the real world, he was stalking me hot and heavy via my blog....thus the year of the subtle courtship, where I blogged just about constantly, mostly amid directly at a certain 2nd Lt. in the United States Army. So, while I give God all the credit for bringing Brett and I together, I give my blog secondary credit for giving Brett the long distance nudges that he needed. hehe.
In the years following, I have found that my blog continues to play these rolls in my life, connection to loved ones across the globe ( as well as with new friends that I've made THRU this blog!), a much needed ( have you SEEN my life?!) form of therapy when things get hard, and it continues to be a source of information for my husband, who still drops by every so often when he has time to check the internet during his deployment in Afghanistan, about my day to day life. I can honestly say, that when I started this blog in 2003, I never thought once about how long it would last or what forms it would take in my life, but from the beginning I decided I would only blog as long as it was "worth it", as long as I could and WOULD be perfectly honest about my day to day Walk in this world, most importantly my day to day struggle to follow Christ as best as I can. I have always found it very important to share when I'm feeling weak, and when I'm doubting, as well as the times that I feel blessed and encouraged. So far it has been an honor to share this part of my life with my readers ( whoever you are!), and if I could be so bold, I'd love it if you left a comment every once in a while ( on this post would be perfect), since comments are pretty much the crack of the blogging world...but, anyway, thanks again for reading my blog, whether this is your first time visiting, or you've been around from the beginning....here's to the next 100,000!
June 11, 2009
Courage, By J.M. Barrie
I picked up this little copy of the "Rector's Address" that Barrie made at St. Andrews College in 1922, this past weekend and I'm very glad I did! It was a quick read, took me about 35 minutes to read from cover to cover, but definitely something that was meaty enough to read several times through. I wished that I'd taken a pen with me while I was reading it, but alas I read it while on the stationary bike in the gym and I can just imagine me trying to juggle book, paper and pen AND spin my legs at the same time...and honestly I doubt it would have been possible!
However, I did remember a few passages that I thought would be worth sharing with you so here goes...
" Go though life without ever ascribing to an opponent motives meaner than your own. Nothing so lowers the moral currency; give it up, and be great."
" Doubtless also ( the Almighty) could have provided us with better fun than hard work, but I don't know what it is. To be born poor is probably the next best thing. The greatest glory that has ever come to me was to be swallowed up in London, not knowing a soul, with no means of subsistence, and the fun of working till the stars went out. To have known anyone would have spoilt it."
"Where an old student given an hour in which to revisit the St. Andrews of his day, would he spend more than half of it at lectures? He is more likely to be heard clattering up bare stairs in search of old companions..."
~~~
These are just a few of the many gems in this little book...I think most of all is the striking comments on war to a people who were just barely coming out of WWI at the time...its amazing how true some of his thoughts are still today.
*Note: You may note that right now all the books in my list of books I plan to read are linked to where you can buy them. Once I actually read the book I hope to write up a little something to tell you what I thought of the book and thus change the link to my thoughts....of course, I'll still give you a little link to where you can find the book so you can decide if I'm right or not...hehehe!
Here is where you can find "Courage" by James Barrie
However, I did remember a few passages that I thought would be worth sharing with you so here goes...
" Go though life without ever ascribing to an opponent motives meaner than your own. Nothing so lowers the moral currency; give it up, and be great."
" Doubtless also ( the Almighty) could have provided us with better fun than hard work, but I don't know what it is. To be born poor is probably the next best thing. The greatest glory that has ever come to me was to be swallowed up in London, not knowing a soul, with no means of subsistence, and the fun of working till the stars went out. To have known anyone would have spoilt it."
"Where an old student given an hour in which to revisit the St. Andrews of his day, would he spend more than half of it at lectures? He is more likely to be heard clattering up bare stairs in search of old companions..."
~~~
These are just a few of the many gems in this little book...I think most of all is the striking comments on war to a people who were just barely coming out of WWI at the time...its amazing how true some of his thoughts are still today.
*Note: You may note that right now all the books in my list of books I plan to read are linked to where you can buy them. Once I actually read the book I hope to write up a little something to tell you what I thought of the book and thus change the link to my thoughts....of course, I'll still give you a little link to where you can find the book so you can decide if I'm right or not...hehehe!
Here is where you can find "Courage" by James Barrie
Waiting Game
There are some things that I hold to be self evident...one of them being that when your husband says he'll call at a certain time and then doesn't that you find yourself "waiting" even though you know the call is probably not going to come....you also find yourself not working out and not taking a shower in the hopes that you won't get interrupted doing either but instead you'll get a phone call while sitting quietly on the couch.
Of course now we're here at 11pm and I really should have worked out ( because its been days) and I really NEED a shower ( "ew" already!) and that phone call never came...so I'm just going to chalk this day up as a loss and hope that everythings OK on the other side of the world.
Sometimes this Life is hard.
And now I will take a shower in the hopes that irony will strike and my phone will ring.....
Of course now we're here at 11pm and I really should have worked out ( because its been days) and I really NEED a shower ( "ew" already!) and that phone call never came...so I'm just going to chalk this day up as a loss and hope that everythings OK on the other side of the world.
Sometimes this Life is hard.
And now I will take a shower in the hopes that irony will strike and my phone will ring.....
June 10, 2009
Why you should read...
So, I've added two new features to my blog. One of them is a category called "Books I recommend..." which is made up of a few of the books I've read in the past year. And let me tell you, it was hard deciding which ones to recommend! I mean, I didn't want to recommend ALL of the books I've read ( for one thing, they weren't all good...) because I didn't want to overwhelm you with titles but instead give you a list of books that, if I may say so, I think EVERYONE should read....ok, not everyone....but MOST of you...and you'll find that each book is magically linked so that you can go and check out to see if by "everyone" I mean YOU.
Obviously, this section will be changing ( if I remember!) as I think of books I've already read that need some recognition and as I read more books that need some props, so keep on the look out folks!
Which brings me to my next new category. This was brought to you by my friend Tabitha, who is currently in the process of "The Great Read" where she is reading a whole bunch of classics with a friend of hers and she's showing her list on the side of her blog, where she crosses off the books she's read....
Ok, so a while back I had a Great Enlightenment and decided that I need not read all the "classics" or the books that the New York Times Best Sellers LIst deems worthy ( or, heaven forbid, books that OPRAH thinks are good!), but instead I would read all the books that *I* wanted to read, and if I finished with that list then, maybe I'd think about reading those so called "Literary Masterpieces" ( and yes, some of them ARE..), anyway, ever since I got an iPhone, I've been keeping a running tab on all the books that I come across that I feel like I really MUST get around to reading...and today, I decided to go ahead and share that list with you! This list will most likely get longer and longer, but I will keep the names up there for at least a full year ( maybe longer depending on how I do) and just cross them off when I've read them ( some of them may even make it into the "Books I recommend" category, but either way I feel like they're all super interesting and worth a look...and, as you can see I left a little "joke" on my list so you could see what a crossed off book looks like....
So there you have it....the books that are on Abigail's Mind...
Obviously, this section will be changing ( if I remember!) as I think of books I've already read that need some recognition and as I read more books that need some props, so keep on the look out folks!
Which brings me to my next new category. This was brought to you by my friend Tabitha, who is currently in the process of "The Great Read" where she is reading a whole bunch of classics with a friend of hers and she's showing her list on the side of her blog, where she crosses off the books she's read....
Ok, so a while back I had a Great Enlightenment and decided that I need not read all the "classics" or the books that the New York Times Best Sellers LIst deems worthy ( or, heaven forbid, books that OPRAH thinks are good!), but instead I would read all the books that *I* wanted to read, and if I finished with that list then, maybe I'd think about reading those so called "Literary Masterpieces" ( and yes, some of them ARE..), anyway, ever since I got an iPhone, I've been keeping a running tab on all the books that I come across that I feel like I really MUST get around to reading...and today, I decided to go ahead and share that list with you! This list will most likely get longer and longer, but I will keep the names up there for at least a full year ( maybe longer depending on how I do) and just cross them off when I've read them ( some of them may even make it into the "Books I recommend" category, but either way I feel like they're all super interesting and worth a look...and, as you can see I left a little "joke" on my list so you could see what a crossed off book looks like....
So there you have it....the books that are on Abigail's Mind...
Project(ion)
There is something I've been meaning to do for ages now, and thanks to a few nudges from friends plus an inspiring visit to the largest used bookstore in the world, I am currently working on a totally fabulous list ( only if you like books, that is...)
Stay tuned....
June 08, 2009
June 05, 2009
Dusk
Its about 87 degrees in my living room right now. I say this because I started SWEATING while laying on the couch. not. moving.
So I'm going to go ahead and take a guess that it was 87 degrees. Very scientific.
Now, in contrast my balcony at 9:33pm was a lovely 72 degrees ( the perfect temperature, according to my iphone)...Thus the reason why I'm sitting on my balcony right now, listening to Coldplay and having a little Dark N' Stormy ( the beverage, not the weather) before bed....
It would only be better if you were here to enjoy it with me...
So I'm going to go ahead and take a guess that it was 87 degrees. Very scientific.
Now, in contrast my balcony at 9:33pm was a lovely 72 degrees ( the perfect temperature, according to my iphone)...Thus the reason why I'm sitting on my balcony right now, listening to Coldplay and having a little Dark N' Stormy ( the beverage, not the weather) before bed....
It would only be better if you were here to enjoy it with me...
June 04, 2009
God's answer!
So, yesterday I prayed that God would help make Katie's Baby Shower Awesome....and low and behold today He sent me an afternoon of making lists with Cindy followed by whirlwind shopping where we checked off a MILLION things on our to-do lists for shower preparations AND we came up with what I think is the cutest summer baby shower theme!! YAY!!!
I'm totally excited now!
Of course, that was only PART of today's to do list...so really no time to stop and chat, I just wanted to share the answered-prayer-joy with all of you!
I'm totally excited now!
Of course, that was only PART of today's to do list...so really no time to stop and chat, I just wanted to share the answered-prayer-joy with all of you!
June 03, 2009
Things you can't ignore...
So, today, I woke up with a horrible headache....this was not exactly a surprise considering my neck has been bothering me off and on since this weekend, but then it decided to not be so subtle any longer and thus a day of me pondering various ways of impaling my own head ( for whatever reason, my brain seems to think that would make the pain LESS...) .
At any case, I think the worst part is that I have so much to do...for instance, I'm throwing a baby shower next Saturday. Yes. As in NEXT Saturday.....Honestly, I've resorted to prayer that it will turn out great, considering that between now and then I have a pretty packed out schedule that included my mommy visiting me at the end of this week and into next week....*sigh*
Ultimately, it MUST turn out swimmingly, because its the last thing I get to do for my friend Katie before she leaves Washington at the end of June...so, see? there is no other option. It must turn out great. The end.
But, back to my headache. After several hours of trying to do things and ignore it, I just gave in and told my headache that it could have today, it could take it and make it into something utterly helpful to all my current to do lists, as long as my headache PROMISED to go away sometime between now and 9am tomorrow morning which is when Obligations kick back into full gear and I refuse to have a screwdriver wedged between my skull and brain for another day.....
At any case, I think the worst part is that I have so much to do...for instance, I'm throwing a baby shower next Saturday. Yes. As in NEXT Saturday.....Honestly, I've resorted to prayer that it will turn out great, considering that between now and then I have a pretty packed out schedule that included my mommy visiting me at the end of this week and into next week....*sigh*
Ultimately, it MUST turn out swimmingly, because its the last thing I get to do for my friend Katie before she leaves Washington at the end of June...so, see? there is no other option. It must turn out great. The end.
But, back to my headache. After several hours of trying to do things and ignore it, I just gave in and told my headache that it could have today, it could take it and make it into something utterly helpful to all my current to do lists, as long as my headache PROMISED to go away sometime between now and 9am tomorrow morning which is when Obligations kick back into full gear and I refuse to have a screwdriver wedged between my skull and brain for another day.....
June 01, 2009
Helping Hands
One thing I had the chance to do this past week, was help a friend of mine write up some descriptions for some of her art work that she is hoping to have published in a printmaking book....it was great fun to try and take what she'd written as well as just her ideas on a particular piece and turn it into something that might be a little bit more reader friendly. I have to admit it was some of the most fun I've had in a while! Mirka is a lot of fun, and her art work is pretty impressive! I recently gave one of her prints of a little birdie as a gift and everyone who saw it was jealous and wanted it for their own....I just replied with I know the artist, aren't I lucky to be around such talent?! hehehe! But in all seriousness, it IS really refreshing to be around someone who is not only creative in their own ( talented!) right, but is kind and gracious enough to spur the people they are around in their own creative juices!
Yes, one of my favorite things about Mirka is that she is as far from pretentious and snobby about her talents as an artist, as you could get and she loves to get other people excited about "working with their hands" too! Luckily, along with her artistic ability she loves to do crafts too ( which translate a little better over to us "non-talented" folk!) and as an example, I absolutely love some of the things she makes and sells on her craft page!
But, as I was leaving her house on Friday she handed me this little Friend to take home with me, she said she just 'threw it together' when she was bored at her in-laws a little while ago and didn't know what to do with it....my thoughts were, if anything I EVER made turned out like that I'd probably sell tickets and shout it from the mountain tops, but then again, my artist genes translated only into words... So thank goodness I can reap the benefits of her hands and take home such little treats that make me happy just to look at them!
Yes, one of my favorite things about Mirka is that she is as far from pretentious and snobby about her talents as an artist, as you could get and she loves to get other people excited about "working with their hands" too! Luckily, along with her artistic ability she loves to do crafts too ( which translate a little better over to us "non-talented" folk!) and as an example, I absolutely love some of the things she makes and sells on her craft page!
But, as I was leaving her house on Friday she handed me this little Friend to take home with me, she said she just 'threw it together' when she was bored at her in-laws a little while ago and didn't know what to do with it....my thoughts were, if anything I EVER made turned out like that I'd probably sell tickets and shout it from the mountain tops, but then again, my artist genes translated only into words... So thank goodness I can reap the benefits of her hands and take home such little treats that make me happy just to look at them!
May 30, 2009
Let this be summer...
Basically this is my favorite spot at the moment. For one thing it is officially warm enough to have both of my windows open and since they span the side of my bed, there is always a crisp, cool feeling on that side of the bed. Its so great in fact, ( especially when you turn the box fan on at night...*sigh* the only thing that could make it better is if Brett was here to enjoy it, the box fan reminds me of him more than most things since he loves them so much....) this morning after I got up early, went and ran a 5k that was being held literally a quarter of a mile from my house, I came home and got right back in bed. And that's where I've pretty much been ever since.
I mean, sure, I'll have to get out bed eventually, Bethany is on her way as I write this and I'm sure she'll want to do something other than lie here...but for the time being I'm basking.
This is in stark contrast with yesterday, yesterday I was go, go, go all day. You can ask Linds for proof, since she pretty much spent all day yesterday lying on the livingroom floor. And every couple of hours I'd rush into the apartment, pick up something or drop something off, or quickly throw some brownies into the oven, and the rush back out again. It was kinda nice, though, having her lying in that same spot everytime I came back in-it made me feel like I hadn't been gone long at all....
May 28, 2009
Under the Sun
I have walked under this awning and into the sunny park next to my home for the past two days so that I can read for hours and get a tan on only the top part of my legs ( super sexy, let me tell you, its like having two pairs of legs...one is tan, one is white)...and let me tell you, these flowers smell divine.
The first time I walked under them, I was walking fast because I was carrying a lawn chair, my phone, and my books ( bible, journal, recreational reading)...but the smell was enough to make me stop and back track, standing still under the blooms taking deep breathes. The last few days I have honestly felt like I was living in some sort of vacation resort. The weather has been THAT beautiful.
May 27, 2009
A Need to Breathe
Today was my day off....I have honestly not had a day when I went leisurely about activities without anyone to see or anything to do at a specific time in a month. And I realized yesterday that I have not been in my own home on a weekend in over a month. A month.
So, yes things have been a bit hectic and I needed a deep breath. Thus today. I had a longer quiet time then normal, I had some time to say longer prayers for people who deserve longer prayers more often, I cleaned and I listened to More Time by Needtobreathe ( For some reason I keep thinking of my friends Amy and Luke all the other military couples having to say goodbye here at Fort Lewis over the next month or two every time I listen to it and it makes me cry...so this one's for you, Amy), I threw together a little greek salad and ate it on my balcony and then I took a walk with a Diet Coke to the library and ordered several books on interlibrary loan ( I've got exotic book tastes apparently), I walked home and then dragged two camping chairs ( one to sit in, one to prop my feet on) over to the park across the street and sat reading "Travelling Mercies", by Annie Lamott, until my legs started to look a little dangerously reddish and I needed a drink of water....
All in all I'm feeling decompressed.
So, yes things have been a bit hectic and I needed a deep breath. Thus today. I had a longer quiet time then normal, I had some time to say longer prayers for people who deserve longer prayers more often, I cleaned and I listened to More Time by Needtobreathe ( For some reason I keep thinking of my friends Amy and Luke all the other military couples having to say goodbye here at Fort Lewis over the next month or two every time I listen to it and it makes me cry...so this one's for you, Amy), I threw together a little greek salad and ate it on my balcony and then I took a walk with a Diet Coke to the library and ordered several books on interlibrary loan ( I've got exotic book tastes apparently), I walked home and then dragged two camping chairs ( one to sit in, one to prop my feet on) over to the park across the street and sat reading "Travelling Mercies", by Annie Lamott, until my legs started to look a little dangerously reddish and I needed a drink of water....
All in all I'm feeling decompressed.
May 26, 2009
Pink is the new Purple
So, I took Tabitha's comment into consideration and made another color change....
colors
For those of you who read my blog in google reader or in some other RSS feed you should take the time to visit my actual blog today since I changed the design... what can I say, I started out wanting to change it to more "summer" colors...but then I got distracted by the purple...I'm not sure if I FULLY like it just yet, may need to tweak it a bit more, but I bet I can trust all of you to tell me just what you think without sparing my itty bitty feelings. ha!
Today, I had a few meetings in the morning and then I headed over for my friend Amy's husband's deployment ceremony. It was quite moving and I most DEFINITELY had the feeling of tears. I'm actually kind of glad that Brett did not HAVE a deployment ceremony, saying goodbye is hard enough without having to hear stirring speeches and singing the national anthem ( which ALWAYS makes me cry!). But, I'm really glad I could go and support Amy and Luke. I honestly, find it much harder to have OTHER people go through deployments now, I suppose its because I know what they are about to experience, and while the past six months have pasted, by the grace of God, without too much difficulty I would rather not have ANYONE experience the No Husband Scenario.
Today, I had a few meetings in the morning and then I headed over for my friend Amy's husband's deployment ceremony. It was quite moving and I most DEFINITELY had the feeling of tears. I'm actually kind of glad that Brett did not HAVE a deployment ceremony, saying goodbye is hard enough without having to hear stirring speeches and singing the national anthem ( which ALWAYS makes me cry!). But, I'm really glad I could go and support Amy and Luke. I honestly, find it much harder to have OTHER people go through deployments now, I suppose its because I know what they are about to experience, and while the past six months have pasted, by the grace of God, without too much difficulty I would rather not have ANYONE experience the No Husband Scenario.
May 25, 2009
What I think...
I'm sitting on my balcony, trying to decide which color on my toes looks better ( each foot has a different polish on it)....
Across the street the neighbor kids are trying decide whether they want to play Freeze Tag or What Time Is it Mr. Fox, a game I have not thought about since grade school....
I can smell numerous cookouts from all up and down the block as Memorial Day is memorialized in barbecue form...
And just below me I watched a soldier in his uniform get in his car to drive into work...probably on staff duty or something...
I know its hard to take these few moments and time and equate it to some soldier fighting in a war in either some far off time or far off place, and yet...I know that in very incomprehensible ways all of this was made possible by men and women who have sacrificed much.
I'm Thankful.
Across the street the neighbor kids are trying decide whether they want to play Freeze Tag or What Time Is it Mr. Fox, a game I have not thought about since grade school....
I can smell numerous cookouts from all up and down the block as Memorial Day is memorialized in barbecue form...
And just below me I watched a soldier in his uniform get in his car to drive into work...probably on staff duty or something...
I know its hard to take these few moments and time and equate it to some soldier fighting in a war in either some far off time or far off place, and yet...I know that in very incomprehensible ways all of this was made possible by men and women who have sacrificed much.
I'm Thankful.
May 24, 2009
May 23, 2009
May 22, 2009
Promises!
So, I promised I'd blog more when we got internet...so here I am!
Of course, irony strikes since two hours after getting internet in the home, Linds and I are headed off for a girls weekend with Cindy down at Seaside/Cannon Beach OR....I suppose its just nice knowing it'll be waiting for us when we get back! hehehe!
This will be especially fun since this is Cindy's FIRST night away without her four kids in four or so years!!! While I cannot even imagine what that must be like, I plan to live it up large just for her sake!
Hopefully I'll take pictures and have a more interactive post to come!
Of course, irony strikes since two hours after getting internet in the home, Linds and I are headed off for a girls weekend with Cindy down at Seaside/Cannon Beach OR....I suppose its just nice knowing it'll be waiting for us when we get back! hehehe!
This will be especially fun since this is Cindy's FIRST night away without her four kids in four or so years!!! While I cannot even imagine what that must be like, I plan to live it up large just for her sake!
Hopefully I'll take pictures and have a more interactive post to come!
May 21, 2009
Pinkie swear
I know I've been a terrible blogger of late, but I have a feeling that next week when I have Internet ( the paid for kind!!) in the apartment again, you'll hear more from me....
Last few days I've been getting back into the swing of Washington, enjoying having L move in with me, preparing for a new bible study for my Tuesday girls ( I've never prepared an entire study from the beginning before and it's a challenge!) , loving washingon's nice weather ( for the most part), doing favors for friends, and trying hard not to look forward to July too much.
Me in a nut shell... And hopefully, I'll be giving you more versions of me soon!
Oh, I read the book "Losing Mum and Pup" by Christopher Buckley on the plane ride back to WA, and it was the most enjoyable four hour read I've had in ages... Put this little memoir on your summer reading list, you won't regret it!
Last few days I've been getting back into the swing of Washington, enjoying having L move in with me, preparing for a new bible study for my Tuesday girls ( I've never prepared an entire study from the beginning before and it's a challenge!) , loving washingon's nice weather ( for the most part), doing favors for friends, and trying hard not to look forward to July too much.
Me in a nut shell... And hopefully, I'll be giving you more versions of me soon!
Oh, I read the book "Losing Mum and Pup" by Christopher Buckley on the plane ride back to WA, and it was the most enjoyable four hour read I've had in ages... Put this little memoir on your summer reading list, you won't regret it!
May 16, 2009
little girls
Today I went to my oldest, dearest friend Amy's little sister's wedding.. Honestly, I did not expect to be so emotional, but I seriously grew up with Amy and Emily ( the bride) and to see Emily between her parents looking all beautiful and walking down the aisle, I could not help but cry.
It is also wonderful to see a groom who is obviously so in love that he cries at the sight of his bride. EVERY girl should experience that, and it is the biggest, most horrible waste when you see girls settling for guys that do not show their absolute adoration for them. As Christians we often hear of the church being referred to as the Bride of Christ, this is a wonderful illustration because so often I have learned more of Christ's love through watching weddings ( and being a part of my own!) than anything else...the adoration of the Groom as he looks upon his bride, he thinks she's perfect...and the things that he knows AREN'T perfect, he overlooks. And the Bride, basking in that love, basking in the security of a life filled with expectance and support that is laid before her. I bet you could ask such a bride and she would say that she feels as though she could do just about ANYTHING on her wedding day, because of that sense of security that her Love brings...
And yet....
How often do we settle for a lesser love, a love of this world, lusts of the flesh...things that do not truly bring the True and Lasting love of the Father!?!
Today I am struck once again and the beauty of the Love of Christ and His love for His Bride. I am also struck by the joy of seeing a couple devoted to Him and now seeking Him hand in hand...they are a reflection of Him today!
To the little girl, Emily, I say job well done! And many prayers for her future life of happiness!
And, dear readers, may all your relationships be a reflection of His Love.
It is also wonderful to see a groom who is obviously so in love that he cries at the sight of his bride. EVERY girl should experience that, and it is the biggest, most horrible waste when you see girls settling for guys that do not show their absolute adoration for them. As Christians we often hear of the church being referred to as the Bride of Christ, this is a wonderful illustration because so often I have learned more of Christ's love through watching weddings ( and being a part of my own!) than anything else...the adoration of the Groom as he looks upon his bride, he thinks she's perfect...and the things that he knows AREN'T perfect, he overlooks. And the Bride, basking in that love, basking in the security of a life filled with expectance and support that is laid before her. I bet you could ask such a bride and she would say that she feels as though she could do just about ANYTHING on her wedding day, because of that sense of security that her Love brings...
And yet....
How often do we settle for a lesser love, a love of this world, lusts of the flesh...things that do not truly bring the True and Lasting love of the Father!?!
Today I am struck once again and the beauty of the Love of Christ and His love for His Bride. I am also struck by the joy of seeing a couple devoted to Him and now seeking Him hand in hand...they are a reflection of Him today!
To the little girl, Emily, I say job well done! And many prayers for her future life of happiness!
And, dear readers, may all your relationships be a reflection of His Love.
May 12, 2009
You ever did see...
Sorry I've been away from the computer for a week or so...but that's what happens when you make the decision to NOT lug your computer to Texas with you....while I can check my emails on my phone, responding is a whole another story...but in the spirit of visiting my family, here's a little present. My sister and I...circa the 80s.
May 06, 2009
May 04, 2009
A day for praise
The Lord is my chosen portion and my cup. You hold my lot...
I bless the Lord who gives me counsel; in the night also my heart instructs me.
I have set the Lord always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken...
You make known to me the path of life in the presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore...
Ps 16:5-8,9
I found myself without anything planned to do today since the babysitting I was suppose to do for a friend fell through because of a sick kid ( swine flu?! Probably not! hahaha!). And I great part of me is relieved. I have a headache ( hellooooo neck tension!) and I slept poorly... probably not the optimal 3 year-old Entertainer at this point.....so instead, here I am at Starbucks ( I lifted the coffee ban....*sigh*), listening to Hillsong....
On Friday night I went to a minor league baseball game with some friends ( as you can see from my picture post from the game) and I got a ride from a friend who lives in the same apartment complex that I do ( at least for the moment! He's deploying soon...) anyway, he was jammin to Hillsong and Hillsong United in his car and I was struck by how LONG it has been since I listened to these praise songs! It brought back days past in great detail and force....
I was reminded of times when hope and optimism reined ( ahhhh Dunedin Days!) when I first sang these songs in church and I was also reminded of times when those praise songs where about the only praising going on in my life, times when the darkness seemed to have no end ( ahhh! 2005). I pretty much retired Hillsong after that, and yet this week as I revisit some of these great songs of truth, I am glad that I can say with certainty that there is never a time when Praise to the Lord most high is not due Him....and as we all continue on in whatever the Day brings...remember that: There is fullness of joy in His Presence...
I bless the Lord who gives me counsel; in the night also my heart instructs me.
I have set the Lord always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken...
You make known to me the path of life in the presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore...
Ps 16:5-8,9
I found myself without anything planned to do today since the babysitting I was suppose to do for a friend fell through because of a sick kid ( swine flu?! Probably not! hahaha!). And I great part of me is relieved. I have a headache ( hellooooo neck tension!) and I slept poorly... probably not the optimal 3 year-old Entertainer at this point.....so instead, here I am at Starbucks ( I lifted the coffee ban....*sigh*), listening to Hillsong....
On Friday night I went to a minor league baseball game with some friends ( as you can see from my picture post from the game) and I got a ride from a friend who lives in the same apartment complex that I do ( at least for the moment! He's deploying soon...) anyway, he was jammin to Hillsong and Hillsong United in his car and I was struck by how LONG it has been since I listened to these praise songs! It brought back days past in great detail and force....
I was reminded of times when hope and optimism reined ( ahhhh Dunedin Days!) when I first sang these songs in church and I was also reminded of times when those praise songs where about the only praising going on in my life, times when the darkness seemed to have no end ( ahhh! 2005). I pretty much retired Hillsong after that, and yet this week as I revisit some of these great songs of truth, I am glad that I can say with certainty that there is never a time when Praise to the Lord most high is not due Him....and as we all continue on in whatever the Day brings...remember that: There is fullness of joy in His Presence...
May 02, 2009
Looking up from the bottom
So, there are times when your actual height becomes very clear....I'm currently about 3 inches tall. At least that's what I'm going to say, approximately, considering the past month has cut me down a couple of feet per week....
First I came face to face with all sorts of fears and all sorts of realities that I've been chillin in denial about for, OOOOH, six months or so. Then to add to that I've seemed to hit a brick wall ministry wise. At every turn it seems to get HARDER. Dealing with people is SO COMPLICATED and, P.S. They never ever react or do things they way you WANT them to. ;-)
So, to say the least, I have been humbled my inabilities to deal and my great and undying need for Christ...So, right when I'm sitting on the bottom rung of all this, looking up at what I slipped down from-I am granted yet another great big surprise:
That husband of mine delivered a shocker about what he wants to do....or should I say HOW he wants to do what he's always wanted to do ( which is reach the military for Christ)....yeah. HUGE CHANGE.
So, because I just got this information last night, and I'm still in relative shock about it-I'm going to leave you to ponder my vague hints...so you can suffer like I did all night. ;-)
Let's just say, I don't think life is EVER going to be comfortable!!! ( and somehow, realizing that is surprisingly comforting!)
First I came face to face with all sorts of fears and all sorts of realities that I've been chillin in denial about for, OOOOH, six months or so. Then to add to that I've seemed to hit a brick wall ministry wise. At every turn it seems to get HARDER. Dealing with people is SO COMPLICATED and, P.S. They never ever react or do things they way you WANT them to. ;-)
So, to say the least, I have been humbled my inabilities to deal and my great and undying need for Christ...So, right when I'm sitting on the bottom rung of all this, looking up at what I slipped down from-I am granted yet another great big surprise:
That husband of mine delivered a shocker about what he wants to do....or should I say HOW he wants to do what he's always wanted to do ( which is reach the military for Christ)....yeah. HUGE CHANGE.
So, because I just got this information last night, and I'm still in relative shock about it-I'm going to leave you to ponder my vague hints...so you can suffer like I did all night. ;-)
Let's just say, I don't think life is EVER going to be comfortable!!! ( and somehow, realizing that is surprisingly comforting!)
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