Tuesday, December 29

2010 and F-I-F-T-Y

Well, on Thursday at midnight, we will all ring in a brand new year and I will be 50.  I was given an early present this past weekend in a gift bag that said "Fifty, the new F word".  I, for one, am not at all worried, depressed or consumed with turning fifty and even less concerned about saying it!  It is a cute gift bag anyway!

I've been thinking.......how do we address this new year?  Should we say ohh-10, or just '10 or should we say 2010?  Thoughts anyone?

What about resolutions?  Does anyone make them anymore?  I guess, more importantly does anyone keep them anymore?

And another thing......what the heck is a Zhu Zhu?

What happened to all the "God" billboards, I really liked 'em?

Just my thoughts for this last Tuesday of 2009!

Tuesday, December 15

Why?

This week has brought tragedy to a family in Fullerton..... one of Kayla's friends disappeared and hasn't been seen or heard from since 1:30 pm Saturday afternoon.  Kayla wrote on FB.... "its times like these when i just have to ask God why? please give me the strength :/ praying for James"

I guess it's natural to ask "why" when something like this happens, but I was impressed by Kayla's ability to ask God for strength as well as praying!  All too often we find ourselves asking God why and even cursing Him, but not taking action and praying.  I was also encouraged by the youth, specifically, James' friends gathering together and supporting the family by passing out flyers and just being there.

There is a rosary scheduled this evening at St. Jude's in Fullerton at 7:00 p.m. PST, please let's all pray together that James is found safe.

Thursday, December 10

The Reason for the Season

Well, I have been absent in the posting arena for awhile (at least with my thoughts, opinions, etc), so as I jump back on the horse and throw my two cents into the ring let's talk about Advent.
Advent is a time of preparation, preparing our hearts and minds to receive the gift of Love delivered in the form of a baby child named Jesus.
Just as we would prepare our home for any guest, we should be examining our hearts, minds and will.  Are we ready to have this visitor be a guest in our 'home'?
We all get really busy this time of year with all the Christmas hype at the store, commercials on TV and kids 'can Santa bring me this toy?', but let's keep in mind why we are doing all this.
A friend of mine posted the busy-ness of Martha and the flip side, calmness of Mary.  Leanna posted about losing the true meaning of Christmas in all the hype, and a co-worker blogged about a 'simplier Christmas' (excerpt: My wish for all of us this season is that we are able to slow down, live healthier, live more “in the moment” as my colleague so aptly aspires, and to cherish what we have rather than what we would hope to have. We can start by not letting the season complicate our lives, but rather simplify them so I figure it's a topic that is on everyone's mind).
So, what is it that we should do?  Well, I believe it is different for everyone, but most importantly, let's keep Christ in Christmas - HE truly is the reason for the season!

Monday, December 7

Wedded Bliss

We attended the wedding of a friend's daughter this past Saturday, and couldn't get over how incredibly happy and totally in love with each other the couple seemed to be. When you saw the groom gaze into his bride's eyes, you knew this couple was meant to be together.  I know, because, my hubby of 32 years has that same look.  How I remember that look, the one that drew me in, to my now husband and then boyfriend.  That look is still the same, it is the look that says "I can see deep into your soul, I know you and I love you!"   It is the look that says, "no matter where we are and what our circumstances I will always love you".  It is amazing and crazy that after all these years he still has that look and he gives it only to me, his bride of 32 years!  I cherish and pray that the look remains forever for us as well as for the couple whose union we witnessed on Saturday!


This picture with John Jaques is from J and Corynn's wedding five years ago. 


Wednesday, December 2

Family


Just wanted to post this awesome picture of Otto's family - brother Tom, Otto, sister Charlene, his dad, Chuck, brother Tim and his mom, Ellen

Thursday, November 19

Happy Birthday Otto


Wishing my hubby and best friend a wonderful birthday week!  Celebrated last night with taco salad, carrot cake, a glass of wine and a movie (Star Trek) with neighbors!  Now, off to Tucson!

O and Jess are riding the century at el Tour de Tucson!  Now, we've all done long rides before and I loved the experience but I don't think I ever said, "for my birthday this year, I want to ride 109 miles in a day"!  Well, that's what he and Jess are going to do!  We are preparing a 'carb up' meal Friday night, and grilling a celebratory steak dinner Sat night.  While the boys are riding on Sat, Cindy and I plan to work on our bible study music and address lists, stuff we need to do but don't seem to find the time.  We are staying at a resort outside of Tubac, so should be the perfect scenery for some meditation, soul searching and relaxing!

Join me, in praying for a safe ride for the two of them and a restful, relaxing weekend for Cindy and me!

Monday, November 16

Give Thanks With A Grateful Heart

How do you give thanks? Do you show others how grateful you are for them? Or, do we take all we have and those we love for granted?   I don't think I show enough appreciation for those I love and all I have.
As I think of the upcoming day of thanks I am searching for the right words to say thank you, but none come to mind. 

This month I hope you all focus on the blessings God has bestowed on you and show your appreciation for all you are close to. Give thanks with a grateful heart!

Happy Thanksgiving.

Tuesday, October 27

Cast All Your Cares

Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.1 Peter 5:6-7

A good reminder, this popped up in my InBox today -

I've realized that my anxiety has often blocked what God has intended for me to do.  I get so preoccupied trying to work it my way, that I miss what it is He really has in mind for me.

Do you ever do that?  Well, this scripture is certainly a good reminder, first to be humble, second to remember that it is in His time, not ours will we be lifted up.  We may be going through a troubling time for a reason and must find a blessing in whatever it is.  Also, the final reminder in this scripture is to cast all our cares/anxiety on him, because he cares for us. 

Casting my cares on him is one of the hardest things for me, and I struggle with this daily.  I look at it like this.... I am fishing and I cast my line out and instead of waiting, I get anxious and reel it back in.  Otto always gets mad at me and tries to encourage me to be patient and leave my line alone.  But, time after time, I cast and reel it in without a thought. 

Well, I am going to post this message and commit it to memory to help me when I get frustrated and lack patience, or try to go off in my own direction instead of the one he wants me to!  Hopefully, it will help me with patience and waiting for God to do what he has intended instead of what I want.

Who knows, maybe it will help me on my next fishing trip as well!

Saturday, October 17

Vacation

Just returned from a week in Florida on Cape San Blas ~~ what a glorious time we had.  First stop last Friday night was New Orleans, unfortunately our luggage was in Tampa - oh well, off to see the town. (our luggage finally made it Sat around 1:00 .m.) We headed to Bourbon St. for a Hurricane at Pat O'Brien's, dinner at the Old Coffee Pot for Jumbalaya and Gumbo, then on to Frenchmen St for some jazz.  Headed back to Bourbon St. for some live music at the Funky Pirate and saw Big Al (all 375 lbs. of him) sing some blues.  New Orleans is about what I expected, dirtly, rowdy drunks and lots of old, old bars.  Frenchmen St. did have some good jazz and clubs, but very crowded!  We had to listen outside some of the bars as they were so many people jammed in :(
Sat am - off to Cafe du Monde for beignets and cafe au lait - the site has been a coffee stand since early 1860's, such history!  That was awesome!  Still no luggage so we couldn't head to the beach yet, decided to check out some cemetaries, crazy they are above ground and sooo old!  we saw one gravesite that had over 12 family members buried there.
Picked up rental car and back to the hotel to wait for luggage and grab lunch before getting on the road to Florida!
Arrived at Mexico Beach about the same time as the Hanson's so stopped to pick up two kids for the remainder of the drive to the beach house for 7 days with the fam!  Wow, the kids are getting sooo big!


It would take a few pages for me to describe the fun the next six days held for us -- here are some highlights!
Beach, more beach, shelling, jellyfish stings, sting ray, bob fetching, dolphin and jumping fish sightings, bonfire on the beach w/ s'mores, raw oysters, great pizza, lighthouse, more beach, body surfing, more shelling, floating, family trivial pursuit, giggles and tickles, cribbage, steal my pile, fish, pictionary, scallops and fish tacos, early am beach runs, coffee w/ chicory, chocolate pancakes, skim boarding, fishing, catfish stings, sand dollar find, treasure island, rain, lightning, sunsets and sunrises.  But, the best of all the kiddos 24/7!!

We had a wonderful time with the Hanson's and Horel's at Pass View on the Gulf!  Thank you so much for all the memories!


Thursday, October 8

Just for Today

Just for today, I will....
try to do better than yesterday
be the best wife I can be
be a good sister, aunt and friend
glorify God

This doesn't mean that I will only do this today, but today I WILL do these things!


Thursday, October 1

Crazy Hair Night


Kaya goes to a bible study on Wednesday for teen girls - last night was crazy hair, check out her do....

Tuesday, September 29

God is Good

Tina needs dental work
We prayed
God answered
She starts tomorrow!
God is good, prayer is powerful!

Thursday, September 24

Are You Ready For Some Football?

Well, it is that time of year too. But, really are you ready for the Fall, or Autumn, whatever you call it. I love this time of year. Of course, I love a good football game too, but I like that it cools down in the evenings here in AZ, the air smells fresh and the sky is, well, bluer!

I feel refreshed. I'm not sure if hot weather is stifling, or I stifle myself, but fall invigorates me! I feel I can take on the world, waking up to a little fall breeze where the trees barely move, cooler mornings with coffee on the patio! That really gets me going.

I feel renewed. Renewed with a sense of purpose, dedication and discipline to study God's Word - I guess this year I thought of summer as a break, like from school. Not that I wanted it that way, it just happened. I hiked a lot this summer, meeting friends early, 5:30 am some mornings. What a way to start the day! Yes, you think. But, I took a break from my daily quiet time and got caught up in the world. I guess my 'L' needs to take a hike! Not that it was bad that I hiked, but I still needed to focus on the Word, and I didn't.

So, what do I do now? Keep trudging up that I failed? NO, I am not doing that, just moving forward and taking it one day at a time.

Just like a fall morning, new with each sunrise, God forgives me if I ask, and I move on with renewed purpose!

Thursday, September 17

Encouraging Others

Started up our women's study in AZ last night, what a wonderful evening connecting with ladies that I haven't seen in awhile and immersing ourselves in His Word! It's amazing how I feel at ease with other women of faith, how the words flow and the conversation is seasoned by each of our experiences. We are doing a topical study on encouraging others; last night we explored the scriptures of how God encourages us through our lives so we can encourage others.
I treasure and value this time that God allows me to be in the presence of other women, praying and encouraging as we each run this race.
Today, my cup is full. Thanks to God for filling me with encouragement and allowing me to encourage others as we walk side by side on our journey through life.
I can hear my Lord cheering me on now -- Atta girl, way to go, you can do it!

Wednesday, September 16

Life is Good

You've seen people wearing the hats, t-shirts, using the coffee mugs and displaying the phrase on anything and posted everywhere in recent years. But, really it is, isn't it? Life......is.....Good....
I am in a real thankful mood this morning and after a vigorous hike taking in God's beauty on earth I am grateful that I get to live life!
Well, if life is good, then God is great, isn't He?
Just my thoughts on this Wednesday.

Wednesday, September 2

Being Christ in the Workplace

It's no secret that I haven't been happy with my job this past year, and I have struggled with the type of work I've been given and how to handle the every day interactions with my new co-workers. I recently subscribed to Christians in Commerce (CIC) and now receive daily emails with words of encouragement for working Christians. This was in my InBox this morning and I could relate as similar events have happened with me. It is hard to explain how your feel when this occurs because you don't want to sound egotistical, but when you put a lot of work into something you want to be acknowledged or at least know that your actions won't go unnoticed by those that evaluation your performance. Well, I guess in all circumstances the one thing for certain is that when faced with encounters like this, we should pray. If only I prayed before I spoke, my words may sound less defensive, aggresive or boastful. Read this excerpt from the email I received from CIC today, hopefully it will help you be Christian in the workplace!

The Advocate, the Holy Spirit that the Father will send in my name, he will teach you everything and remind you of all that I told you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you, not as the world gives do I give it to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid. John 14:26-27

"A close friend of 20 years and former business partner once offered me a job, which I accepted. The job in the high tech industry is in neither of our areas of expertise. To help facilitate our learning curve we interviewed several high tech firms in our region. We spent several weeks interviewing CEOs, CFOs, presidents, and vice presidents of these companies. Each of us wrote a 6-page summary after the interviews. My boss collated the summaries into a final report for presentation at our 40-member Advisory Board meeting. Prior to the meeting she gave me a draft of the final report to review. Much to my surprise, on the title page only her name was listed. I felt hurt that after we had both spend hours interviewing and recapping the site visits, her name was the only one on the final report.

I am blessed to have a CIC sister, Debby, working in the office next to mine. "I need to pray". I told Debby my woeful tale. I explained that public recognition and accolades are not career values that I hold. I knew this was a small issue and that it really didn't matter in the overall scheme of things. I told Debby I wanted to be a shining light for Christ, a loving friend and good coworker, so why was my heart so troubled? My sister looked me in the eye and said, "I guess we're only human", bowed her head, and led us in prayer. I felt a weight lifting from my heart and a sense of profound peace. The Holy Spirit was present and taking the trouble from my heart.

I recently read that God wants us to develop the habit of reflecting prayerfully on the circumstances that we face everyday. He wants us to hold fast to his word and let him guide our hearts. As I remember this prayer time with Debby, I am again filled with a renewed sense of peace."

TAKE THE CHALLENGE: When are you most vulnerable to the world's influences? How do you handle it?

Wednesday, August 26

Renewed

Ever feel run down, unmotivated and just plain defeated? Well, lately I have been feeling like that; to put it bluntly, I feel under attack. Does this come from my lack of faith? Is it real or imagined? Am I playing the victim? Yikes, what is going on?

It wasn't until this past week while on vacation and removed from my normal daily routine, that I was able to analyze and look clearly at the problem.

Life has a way of putting stones and stumbling blocks on our path so we have to make choices and possible change our course or figure how to get over the barracades. Where is my path headed and the stones I have encountered, should I proceed over or change my course?

This is what I have determined - for one, I haven't been too faithful in my personal time with the Lord; two, I've been allowing outside influences to alter my moods; and three I continue to try and 'fix' my problems instead of laying them at Jesus' feet!

Vacation is good! Fresh air, no schedule and the ocean breeze has a way of renewing and refreshing my outlook. During my time away, I wasn't burdened with the hustle and bustle of a busy work day, evenings figuring out dinner or dealing with finances, phone calls and other miscellaneous 'things' that tend to be placed on my path and clog my mind preventing me from focusing on what is truly important.

As I return from my time away I've decided to use this list when deciding which path to take or when feeling attacked so I can focus on what is truly important:

God first
my husband and family next
then me
work and whatever else

When I put my focus on God, all the else seems to fall into place and becomes clearer and gives me strength to face the challenges of life! Releasing my life to the One who is truly in charge makes choosing the right path a little easier and most often ensures a smoother path than the one I would have chosen without His guidance and protection!

I am thankful for the time to be away from the daily grind to focus on my relationship with Jesus and the importance of putting Him first in my life -

Wednesday, August 5

We've Come A Long Way Baby!


Boy does time fly! I was reading Leanna's blog today - she just celebrated her 12th wedding anniversary with Jared! Wow, where did the time go? Jason and Corynn also celebrated an anniversary, their 4th. It is hard to believe that our children are grown up and married! Uh-oh, that means we are getting old! As I sit here catching up with friends and family on Facebook, my lovely husband of 32 years is snoring loudly on the couch - boy, could life be any better?
Really, I barely can remember back to that day in November, 1977 where Otto and I walked down the aisle and become husband and wife. When I see our children in their marriages, watch their struggles and triumphs and think back to when we were their ages... wow, we've come a long way. Life is Good!

Tuesday, August 4

No Vacancy

Well, the Stuck Hotel is at full capacity and we are hanging up the 'no vacancy' sign yet again. We recently welcomed Tina, Kaya and Eden to our humble abode here in the southwest. Hopefully they will find some peace and restoration that is much needed after the unexpected and crazy events that have plagued their family these past few months. Eden and Kaya were excited to be able to spend some time with their cousin, Delaney at the beach in San Diego, then back in Phoenix for the day. They've spent almost every day in the pool and we even camped this past weekend at Lake Pleasant. We've been busy!

So far, we have been constantly reminding them that they need shoes on even if it is just to go outside to get the mail, and sunscreen, even if it is just to go outside to get the mail..... get my drift! Goodbye Minnesota, hello Arizona!

The girls are registered in school and have 'meet the teacher' next week on Wed and Thur, and school starts on the 17th - they seem excited. Eden is going into 3rd at Las Brisas and Kaya 7th at Hillcrest. Tina's gone on two interviews and is now in the waiting mode for those, and still holding out hope to hear from SV. So, as things settle down and the hustle and bustle of emptying and rearraging rooms and filling them up with girlie things diminishes, we have to stop and take a breath and offer thanksgiving that we we are able to help out and provide a safe and somewhat peaceful environment for them.

Please pray for employment for Tina (a job with benefits!) and a smooth transition for the girls into their new schools.

Wednesday, July 15

The Trailer


Well, just to keep you updated on what's happening here in AZ, the Stuck's are now the proud owners of a Jayco Feather 25ft trailer. We've been talking, looking, saving and talking some more about graduating from our pop-up to a bigger trailer for a few years now and I thought I would share our news. Otto's been looking for awhile, but we kept putting it off, saving more, but I finally gave in and went looking with him a few months ago. Whew, what a task, in and out of trailers, this lot, drive across the city to the other one, in and out of trailers, several times - not so smart in the Arizona during the summer!
We quit looking for awhile and then one weekend last month he convinced me again to head to the lot. Lucky for us someone just traded in a trailer that fit just what we were looking for.
A few days later, we were the proud owners, and we brought it home, spent the weekend cleaning it and putting the 'stuck' touch to it. We found a storage lot where we can 'house' it close by since it won't fit in our garage (bummer, but I do get to put my car in there once again!).
We are really excited about taking it out soon, may not be till beach camping in CA, but none the less, we are very excited!

Thursday, July 9

God's Perfect Timing

Why do we try to undermine our Father? His timing is perfect, yet we try to manipulate and control things that are really out of our control ~ He has a plan for us, we just need to listen and wait.

Jeremiah 29:11
For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

It is hard, sometimes to just sit and wait for the Lord. We want to jump in and help out wherever we can. I'm not saying we should always sit idly while someone is in need, but we don't always have to try to fix things! I am a fixer. I can't help it sometimes, I just want people to be happy and for some reason, I feel I am the person who will bring happiness. Wow, how conceited is that?

Really, I am inclined to jump in and help out whether that is what God wants me to do or not; it takes a lot of restraint not to just jump in and give my two cents (or more!)

My prayer for you today (and me, of course) is that we stop, wait and listen for the Lord, His timing is perfect and if we give Him the chance, He will work all things for good!

Update on Dean ---- He is being moved to a long term care facility where he will begin the process of physical and hopefully, some behavioral therapy! Tina, along with his parents are driving him there this morning. Kaya and Eden will be flying to Arizona to spend some time with Grandma, then Tree will pick them up and go to California for a few weeks - the kids need some vacation time and this will give Tina a chance to get things in order. I'll fill you in on his progress, please continue praying for his strength to fight this fight!

Friday, June 26

No Limits


There are no limits to the what we can experience through God!
"He is able to do far more, exceedingly, abundantly, above all we could ask or think..." Ephesians 3:20

Update on Dean~

He has regained most of his memory is talking, but tires easily. He now is dealing with the long road to recovering his motor skills. Please continue to pray for Dean's improvement and also for his girls, Tina, Kaya and Eden as well as the rest of his family.

Monday, June 22

Life Changing Events

just my thoughts....

Well, our family was hit with tragedy Saturday morning when my sister, Tina called from Minnesota to tell us that her boyfriend was airlifted to the hospital when she couldn't wake him up for work. Dean was on life support and pretty close to death the entire weekend. Talk about a life changing event. My mom flew out to be with Tina and the girls, Kaya (12) and Eden (9)late Saturday night. Wow -

Today when I talked to Tina, Dean had just woke up and had been breathing on his own for about an hour --- what a miracle!

What is going to change about their life as they knew it? What is going to be different about the way they live?

As I grow up (that's what I refer to as aging, growing up), I tend to look at things a lot differently... I relish in a beautiful day, take time to smell the flowers, use my china/crystal every day and even burn those fancy candles. I don't want to miss a minute of anything! People become more important than things, relationships do matter and boy do I want to be debt-free!

The Olivito-Karlen family is faced with this now. Will Dean look at his life differently? What can and will he change about the way he lives. How will Kaya and Eden change? What about Tina, losing a life-partner is a harsh reality, especially at 40!

I sure hope that this life-changing event will turn into a positive in their lives! It's too early to tell about the physical and mental state for Dean, but we are hoping for a miraculous recovery.

Wednesday, June 17

God's Country


Just returned from a trip to Big Lake, located in the White Mountains of Arizona, about 15 miles from the New Mexico border. Lots of elk, critters and tall pines! Fishing wasn't too great because it was so windy, but still a bad day fishing beats a good day at work anytime! Right?

We left Thursday right after work and rolled in about 9:30 pm, we took the wrong Forest Road and ended up having to turn around with the trailer (oy). But, all in all, not a bad trip up there! We went through Globe this time and really enjoyed the scenery and took our time.

Friday am up early as fishermen do -- but not very lucky, the wind was howling and there were white caps on the lake. You could see the storm in the distance backed by the white-capped mountains. It was beautiful. Nothing like being one with nature. I finished a book I was reading and I think I went through about 3 lures in 30 minutes! Shore fishing sucks sometimes. Otto had a few bites, and our friend, Bob Rasmussen did catch one 13" from his canoe. So, like I said before, a bad day.....

Most of the campers showed up by Friday night and we gathered for our 'soup pot luck' yummy! Boy, it sure got cold quick. Trying to stay warm by the fire was difficult with the wind, but we managed some how. That night, our heater came on - it got in the low 40's --

Saturday brought some sunshine, but still cold we decided to hike with the Rasmussens and Gerhardts - ya never know what you're gonna get when the Ras lead the pack. The trail was about 8 miles, up and down, not too hard but so many fallen trees; took us about 4 hours! Not expecting the long trek, we were tired and out of water by the time we returned to camp! And, almost late for dinner - tonight, chili!

More campfire, then bed! Early for a Saturday night, but that hike wore us out. Sunday we got up and headed to group breakfast; pancake, sausage and egg cassarole, yum yum - followed by a prayer service by Deacon Ron and then packed up for home.

We decided to head North and take 40 to 17 through Flagstaff and hit Winslow on the way - we were Standin' on a corner in Winslow, Arizona!!! Check that off our bucket list!

What a great weekend and wonderful fellowship with friends!

Wednesday, May 6

Are You Looking at the Heart?

"The Lord doesn't see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart. "
1 Samuel 16:7, NLT

This scripture was in my InBox this morning - I love how God works in my life, He never ceases to amaze me! I have had two encounters this week, just on this topic. First, I was having a conversation about how we are all quick to judge by outward appearance and when we first meet someone we think, she's pretty or he's handsome and start judging them before they speak a word. I'm guilty of judging the way people dress, talk, etc and sometimes catch myself getting caught up in the whole physical appearance. Second, I was sent an email story about a man who found some clay balls in a discarded sack on the beach. He examined them quickly, and looking at the roughness and wear decided they were just 'clay balls'. He started throwing them into the ocean one by one. As he was about to throw one of the last balls over the crashing waves, he dropped it on the sand and it broke open to reveal a valuable jewel. How sad he was when he realized he just threw away half of the treasure he found because he only saw what was on the outside! How many people have we tossed away because they didn't meet our 'physical' or outward appearance requirements? How many experiences have we missed out on because we didn't get to know someone better?

May we all take a moment when we have the opportunity to meet someone and get to know them for who they are and not how they look. Let's not judge and try to see the person as our loving Father would, as a treasure, a beautiful gem and valuable jewel!

Thursday, April 2

Under The Sun


Have you ever used the phrase 'everything under the sun' to describe a lot of things? I am doing a bible study called "A Woman of Contentment", it is based on Ecclesiastes and the phrase 'under the sun' is everywhere in this book. Solomon looking for answers everywhere 'under the sun', fools gathering treasures 'under the sun'. Were they happy once they had everything 'under the sun'? Well, not really. Last night's chapter focused on 'fading glories'. We discussed chasing after everything 'under the sun' and how we should live thankfully for these gifts, but remember that our real life, the life that will never fade away is in heaven. Where are we headed and what do we want in this world? We know that we will not live forever, but we chase after things that will make us happy for a moment and then the moment is gone. What do we have left? This book has helped me focus on what is important to me and reminds me that all we have here on earth will be gone one day. The real treasures are in heaven and our focus should be upward. When you have a minute, thank God for what we have on earth, appreciate it, but keep your focus upward to where your real treasure lies!

Wednesday, February 18

Beauty in a Sunset


Can You Feel It?

"For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases Him. "
Philippians 2:13

This is an ongoing discussion at our weekly Bible Study meetings, Can you feel it? 'It' is actually God. We often get sidetracked in our discussion about a scripture or topic during the study and go the route of 'how do you know when God is talking to you or which path to take or what is the right thing to do'. Well, what we have determined so far is...

1. Lightening probably won't strike you and you won't hear 'Cheryl, this is God'
2. He often speakes through others, in readings and nature
3. We can see Him in everything if we just take the time to stop, look, but most importantly, listen

How do we know when God is working in us? How do we know that our desires are the desires that He has set in our hearts? How do we know what path to follow? Well, that my friends is something that when we are at the 'pearly gates' may be answered. But, for now, we have to trust our judgement and our feelings to follow the right road that will lead us to Him. Stay in touch through scripture and meditation. Seek Him, you will see Him if you look for Him!

I am sure you all have seen the email, or heard the story about the man who was trapped on the roof of his house during a flood and prayed to God to save him. First, a boat motors past the flooding house and the guy refuses to get on board waiting for God, then a helicoptor flies overhead and drops a rope and the guy refuses again. Finally, after the water has overtaken the house and after the man drowned, he is face to face with God. He is angry and yelling at God for not saving him. God says "I sent a boat and a helicopter for you, what were you waiting for"?

Since the Lenten season is approaching, I hope that you all take the time to reflect, renew and refresh your faith. Take the time to stop, look and listen for God!

Sunday, February 1

See you at the finish line.......

I've been reading a short book by Lincoln Murdoch who is an endurance racer, "See You at the Finish Line" and am again reminded how God works in our lives. I have been struggling with motivation and direction lately and it seems that others around me are as well. You see, this book wasn't on my bookshelf, in fact I don't even know where it came from or how I got it. I stumbled across it when putting away the Christmas decorations. I don't know about you, but I heard God speaking to me "stop what you are doing and look at this book". Now of course, Otto would say that was my ADD and inability to stay on task, but I know it was God. So many of us miss His calling because we are pre-occupied and don't stop to listen. So, blocking out Otto telling me to 'stay on course', I picked up the book and read the Introduction....

In the Introduction, Lincoln speaks to his endurance racing and how he is able to compete because he has set a plan and stayed the course - he talks about how football or basketball teams fall apart in the 4th quarter and lose because they didn't have the same level of endurance and conditioning as the other team. Well, just as in athletic performance or life, we need endurance in our spiritual walk.

Luke 21:19 says "By your endurance, you will gain your lives."

I am drawn to what the author is saying, whether we are battling relational struggles, burnout, financial problems or an attack by the enemy we can not abandon our faith just because the race is too hard. We must stay the course and press on. I am looking forward to reading more of what Lincoln has to say in his book and will keep you all posted and hopefully bring some helpful tips on not giving up when the going gets tough! As well as our spiritual lives, we can apply what he is saying in our daily lives and other goals we may have set and struggling to complete.

Two weeks ago, I signed up for two classes at the local community college with the goal of getting my degree (finally). I gave up pursuing my degree about 20 years ago; there were many reasons that justified my decision at the time and even since then. But I have always questioned my decision and whether I should start school again. Over the past few years my job has taken many twists and turns, all of which I had no control over and many times I thought about going back to school to see what I wanted to do when I 'grow up'. Well, finally, after much soul-searching and praying, I made an appointment, met with a counselor and requested my transcripts from 1987. I know this road may be a tough one to travel, but I am keeping an open mind and pressing on toward the goal to get my degree.

I hope that if any of you have set goals and not accomplished them will consider looking at them again, coming up with a plan to meet your desires and pressing on to completion!

Oh yeah, and one more thing.... GO CARDINALS!

Wednesday, January 21

Pressing On

The past few days I have been following emails between our family regarding a family vacation which turned into a discussion about the economy; specifically budget cuts and spending that will affect professionals in education. I was really touched by the passion that J has for his profession and his commitment to encourage the youth he teaches to persevere. But, I was also saddened by his comment that his morale has been low and he felt this is affecting the way he is teaching.

Don't we all get discouraged at times? What do we do when this happens, where do we turn to reverse the negative thoughts of uncertainty, disappointment and anger? We need to stay the course, and persevere by putting our trust in God and seeking Him to help us through.

Here are two scriptures I turn to often....

"I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:14

"Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing." John 15:5

I hope that we all will be encouraged to stay the course and keep our heads up when all seems lost. We never know who is watching us or looking to us for guidance or direction. Our actions will speak louder than our words, so if others see us as discouraged and negative, then they too may be negative. In words attributed to St. Francis of Assisi, "We spread the Gospel by modeling Christ, always preaching sometimes using words."

Mom sent out a cute story today about a dog today, and these words jumped off the page at me.

Remember....live every day to the fullest. Each minute is a blessing from God. And never forget....the people who make a difference in our lives are not the ones with the most credentials, the most money, or the most awards. They are the ones that care for us.

Let's continue caring and sharing Christ's love through our actions. Don't be discouraged by events that we can't change, but to help change the things we can.

Love you all,
Cheryl Lee

Wednesday, January 7

Troubled Hearts

Ever get that feeling that something just isn't right? You can't quite put your finger on exactly what it is, but you know you are out of balance, 'off kilter' or whatever cliche' or term you choose to attach to the feeling. Some people will look inward searching their heart, mind and soul to find out what is causing that annoying feeling. Others will look outward and possibly seek professional help. Me, I usually do both. When my life feels out of control or 'off kilter' I sometimes need that nudge and be reminded to trust in God and take my troubles to him first instead of trying to solve it all on my own.
As we inch forward into 2009, I hope to rekindle the flame of my desire to become closer to Him, be devoted to a quiet time and keep the fire burning as I search for answers. God is there, waiting for us to call upon Him and to trust in Him to calm our troubled hearts. Make the call!

"Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me."
John 14:1

Monday, January 5

New Year

Howdy!
Today I am returning to work after a two week hiatus and have really mixed emotions. I don't usually make New Year's resolutions, but this year I want to be more disciplined, motivated and committed. I have been struggling with some things over the past few months and feel that I need to make some changes, but mostly give more of an effort in certain areas of my personal and professional life. Some changes are more evident, others I am still searching for. So, while I begin my search for clarity, I will be praying for you all and your New Year's resolutions, whatever they may be!

I came across this scripture this morning and I guess it just confirmed that we all need discipline in our lives, without it we would lose direction. I know that I get distracted easily and it is good to be guided back to the right path.

See you soon!

"Think about it: Just as a parent disciplines a child, the Lord your God disciplines you for your own good." -- Deuteronomy 8:5 --