A Deeper Look

My First Book Review - Pearl in the Sand

2012-01-24T11:47:00.000-08:00

Until recently I was not a big fan of Christian fiction. I found the genre to be predictable, simple, and not based in reality. Recently this has changed. I have been introduced to many new authors and books by my fellow book lovers Tanya and Leigh Anne and I've truly come to embrace the genre, almost to the exclusion of most other fiction.

For quite some time now I've wanted to review books and I think that "Pearl in the Sand" is the perfect one to start with. The book is the telling of the story of Rahab. We know the basics... she helped the spies hide, the Lord spared her life and blessed her with the distinction of being in his lineage. Within the telling of the lineage it mentions that she was married to one of the leaders of Israel. That is all that the Bible tells us, so this is truly a fictional account of what their lives may have been.

While at times I found I had to make a concerted effort to distinguish between Biblical reality and fictional prose, this book truly brought this story of the Old Testament alive! It makes the wanderings in the wilderness real as it walks you through what their daily life may have been. As I now read through the Old Testament I notice small details about the law because I can now think what that might look like.

This book is a story of redemption. We know that Rahab was a harlot and she ended up married to a leader of Israel. The Lord forgives and redeems for his purpose and for his glory. I love the picture of purity that her marriage brought to her life. Without giving too much of the story away, there was a line that brought tears to my eyes. "She learned purity in her husband's bed". What a beautiful thought when we are surrounded by sexual impurity, to be reminded that God created sex and it is a beautiful, pure thing when it is from Him.

I LOVED this book! Let me know if you have read it and what you think.

Change in Perspective

2011-11-01T15:52:00.000-07:00

I've been taking a class entitled "Perspectives on the World Christian Movement" and it has completely given me a new perspective (as promised) ! I'm not sure I'll be able to read the Bible the same, share the Gospel the same, or view the world the same. As referenced in my last post, ordinary life as I knew it is long gone.

So this brings me to the purpose of this post. One of the sections of the course is the Historical Perspective of Missions. This section discusses the different mechanisms that the Lord has used to spread His Word. Briefly they are "Voluntary Going", "Involuntary Going", "Voluntary Coming", and "Involuntary Coming".

Before I continue I have to flash back to a conversation I had many years ago. I've had MANY conversations over the years about immigration but this one has always stuck with me. My friend asked me about a certain situation he was faced with... the janitor at his church was an illegal immigrant. He asked me how I would handle the situation. My answer came very quickly... "circumstances don't dictate truth". The specific details of this person's story did nothing to sway my position; he was here in this country illegally and something needed to be done about it.

As I read about "Involuntary Coming" and this mechanism that the Lord used to bring people to a land they might not otherwise come to, due to the circumstances they left behind, I started to rethink my position. I still believe that truth is not dictated by circumstances or emotions, and I still believe (quite strongly) that the government needs to fix our immigration policy. What changed is my perspective. What is my responsibility in all of this? What opportunities are we missing in all of this if we focus on the political side of the issue. Think about it? MILLIONS of foreigners are in this country and while the details of each of their stories may be different, the reality remains the same - they are here! Many of these foreigners come from countries that missionaries aren't able to go to... and the Lord brought them to our doorstep!

What a difference we could make for the Kingdom if we reached out to them. They may be able to return to their own countries with a citizenship in heaven that they are ready to share with others. Many of these 'visitors' are never invited in to American homes. How can we share the love of Christ with them if we don't meet them.

Here's what I'm doing about it... I'm learning how to teach them English. Actually, I've been learning and start tutoring a lady from Brazil this week. She's been in this country for many years, but is wanting to get her GED and needs some help preparing for the essay portion. Pray for me as I spend time with Elizabeth. Pray that she will be able to see the love of Christ in my life as I share Him with her. I look forward to meeting many others like in Elizabeth in this coming year as I reach out to those the Lord has brought here for us to minister to. I'm grateful to my church for thinking of this ministry and being on the front lines of changing the conversation on immigration among believers.

Until the World Hears!

Ruined for the Ordinary

2011-10-01T18:39:00.001-07:00

This book changed my life. I hope that doesn't sound cliché because I don't want to take away from what I'm trying to say. For quite some time I've been frustrated with the ordinary life. I knew there had to be more to things than just figuring out what job or man would make me happy. This book started me on the process of finding that "more".

My purpose is to bring Glory to God and in that worship share the gospel of Christ with the Nations. Never have I been more excited about anything. Never will I be able to go back to ordinary life.

Today I start the challenge that springs from this book. For those of you who know me, my normal approach to things is to go full-speed ahead with a plan without thought to anything else, or without any patience for the process. In doing this I'm trying to change that. I'm going to take the next year to prepare for what God has for me. I believe that to be full-time ministry, but I still don't know what that looks like fleshed-out so I wait. While I wait, I pray and prepare... and that's where this challenge comes in.

The Challenge consists of 5 steps:

1. Pray for the entire world - Matthew 9 "The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field". Before he told them to do anything else, Jesus told his disciples to pray, and not just to pray for the needs, but to pray for those who should and will go.

2. Read through the entire Word - Christians around the world either don't have the Bible in their language or sometimes risk their lives to be able to have a Bible. I have a Bible degree, and I must confess to have never read through the whole Bible. That changes this year.

3. Sacrifice your money for a specific purpose -- the word sacrifice means that this might hurt at times, but our hearts follow our money.

4. Spend your time in another context - If we are to accomplish the global purpose of God, it will not be by primarily giving our money (although this is important if you look to point #3). It will be done through giving of ourselves -- that is what is required by the gospel. Taking the gospel to the nations is not an option or a calling -- it is a command!

5. Commit your life to a multiplying community - this is where the other 4 points converge. We don't do this alone, we stand with other believers who are committed to a Radical faith and to multiplying the gospel by making disciples.

So this is what the next year of my life looks like. I'm scared -- as excited as I am, I know it won't be easy, but JESUS IS WORTH IT! I covet your prayers through this year as I know that the devil will seek to change my plans but greater is He that is in me, than he that is in the world.

Another awesome tree...

2010-12-07T08:14:00.000-08:00

After reading my last post, an avid hiker in California (and dear friend) send me this picture of a fabulous tree that I wanted to share with you all!!

I wish I could curl up in one of the roots with a cup of tea and a good book!

You can hear the trees whispering . . .

2010-12-06T08:43:00.000-08:00

Have you ever looked at a tree and sensed its personality? If that makes me sound weird to you, then perhaps you won't be interested in the rest of this post. BUT, if you know exactly what I mean -- then I'd like you to meet my new friend (he hasn't shared his name with me yet). One look at this gorgeous tree and I knew he would talk to me.

One of my dearest friends from childhood recently came to visit me and we made our way to Wave Hill. I confess that I had almost forgotten about this peaceful getaway and had not been since Keri came to NY for my high school graduation (let's just say it was more than a couple of years ago).

In the middle of the chaos of NYC is this beautifully peaceful, serene oasis in which, if you listen closely enough, you really can hear the trees whisper.

This day inspired me to look for other ways to find quiet in the midst of the noise that surrounds my life. I drive in to work every day -- in to Times Square. I work at MTV, where there are TV's playing music anywhere you go. There's very little quiet to be found in my every day life ... to that end I have decided to start working my way through "NY's 50 best places to find peace and quiet". Some of them will have to wait until the summer time as it requires being outside, such as free kayaking on the Hudson, but others can be experienced at any time of year. As I experience each one I shall let you know.

How's your Prayer Life?

2010-11-03T07:12:00.000-07:00

If you're like me you have spent a good deal of time talking about having a strong prayer life. Perhaps you've even read about having the kind of prayer life that moves mountains.

Lately I've been moved to not only talk and read, but to start putting in to practice. That being said I'm recommending this book as a great encouragement. One of the things I like about it is that it has brought me the Scriptures - it doesn't just use pithy ideas about prayer.

It is the fervent desire of my heart to be a prayer warrior, to come before the Throne of Grace on behalf of those that are doing His great work! I want to make a difference, I want to have purpose -- I want to be different! The Word of God changes lives, the prayers of the righteous avail much!

Lord may I be a woman of your Word, on my knees before you!!!

Happiness Is ...

2009-11-15T17:50:00.000-08:00

Today's blog is really a continuation of last week. I had too many picture to post all at once, so I've decided that this post will be the remainder of the pictures.

Happiness is family lunches at Panera. Keziah and Eric are family too!!

Happiness is Mr. Eric climbing the rock with you!!

Happiness is my brother learning to crochet so that he can help his daughter learn!!

Happiness is having a friend like Keziah that can teach him how.

Giving & Receiving Joy

2009-11-08T18:25:00.000-08:00

Today lunch was held at Panera Bread (Keri dearest, it was my very own important meeting). I hadn't had a chance to spend much time with my brother's family and I wished to rectify that. As mentioned in an earlier blog I had a book to give to my nephew Sammy. My little guy is so very smart and looked through the whole book fascinated and explaining the difference in "diggers" to me -- apparently they all have their very important job. Being the brilliant aunt that I am, I was prepared -- I came with paper and colored pencils for him to get started right away. Sammy was a great sharer and he let Myia do one as well. As you can see they both took it very seriously. Myia then went on to decorate hers with an American Flag sticker and wrote "Made in the USA" -- so clearly I have done my job with these little ones. :-)

I also had a gift for Myia. If you know anything about my oldest niece, she is a princess beyond anything you can believe. She HAS to wear dresses, fancy shoes, and her clothes must match. She is also quite the lady. I once told her that it would be easier for her to get over to her mother if she crawled under the table... she was HORRIFIED. Aghast she turns to me and states "ladies don't crawl under tables"... now I know. So in keeping with my little lady's personality, I found the most precious necklace with a dainty star on it and she was quite happy. Myia also made sure to keep the box to store it in and keep it safe.

Today's Joy brought to me by two of the loves of my life. Giving them joy brought me more joy than I could have imagined.

Joyousness for today...

2009-11-07T16:03:00.000-08:00

I am feeling a theme for my blogs... :-) Keep checking back to see how many different titles I can find to use for this theme.

So here's the back story to today's joy! I worked at my mom's store today and called her at the end of the day, exhausted and sharing some things on my heart -- being the wonderful, caring mama that she is, and always one to take care of me -- she said "go get yourself something nice for dinner on me". Thus began my mission.

I headed to Whole Foods more because that's the direction I started driving. I intended to drive to the A&P but always forget that it's off of Goffle Rd and not Lincoln Ave. (Sorry if you don't live in this area to follow that).

I shall now break down the pieces to this evening's joyous dinner.

I am not a big sushi fan, but I do enjoy California Rolls although I would prefer them without the crab meat ... TA DA -- I have Avocado and Cucumber rolls with brown rice -- the beginning of the meal.

After the delightful appetizer, we continue the meal with a potatoe pancake, zucchini Parmesan latke (google it), and broccoli rabbe with sauteed whole garlic. To top it all off, I am going to use some delicious salad dressing that my sis-in-law Sarah made for me -- thanks darlin.

What am I drinking with all of this deliciousness? Honest Tea... it's my new obsession - honestly!! That's why there are three that you see, "Agave Mate", "Mango Acai White Tea", and "Lori's Lemon Tea". Hope mom doesn't mind that I bought three. I also have another one in the refrigerator that she bought me earlier in the week (did I mention that she takes care of me?).

Now that I've shared my meal with you, I shall share the dessert portion of today's joyousness moment! I haven't decided if I shall eat the two separately or if I shall eat them at the same time.

My family is a big supporter of the frozen fruit industry, I am in favor of any fruit that someone else takes the effort to cut up and freeze. That being said, I've never seen Mango's be a choice before -- in Ecuador we (mostly my mom and our precious maid, Maria) used to have to do all the work of cutting up the mango and freezing them, and now you can buy a bag at Whole Foods -- life is good.

To round out the night I am eagerly anticipating my Coconut Almond Ice Cream bar made with coconut milk. You can't eat too many of these because the coconut milk makes them quite high in fat -- but man are they delicious.

Joyousness for today, brought to you by Whole Foods (and my sweet mama)!!

What brought me joy today...

2009-11-06T17:31:00.000-08:00

Dinosaur Invasion
As I walked in to the home office tonight I almost tripped over this guy -- although he looks quite scary in this picture, he's actually much smaller. The joy of this little guy being in the middle of the office floor is what it symbolizes... it means that little Rodney was playing with it and the toys surrounding it. Little guy took a nap on Grampy's "piddow" this afternoon and then spent some time at Grammy & Grampy's house playing with the toys. Everyone knows that knows that the toys that you don't get to play with every day are better than the boring ones you can play with whenever you want. ALSO -- if I know my dad, I can pretty much guarantee that this involved Grampy down on the floor playing with little Rodney bringing endless delight to both of them. Grammy was probably close by either spoiling him with treats or hugs.

Arrival of Books

I can't think of many things that bring me more joy than new books... but new books for my babies bring with it the anticipation of the look on their faces when they realize that Nonni got them new books. Recently a friend needed some help reaching a goal of selling Children's books, so I decided to see what she had available. (See her great site here). The Shapes Jigsaw Puzzle book is for little Rodney - all the other kids LOVED any puzzle books I brought home so I am sure that Rodney will feel the same way. Sammy, on the other hand, is fascinated with "diggers" -- can you believe that I found a book called "Diggers". He's going to love the endless entertainment this brings him.

Lest you stop and think "only books for the boys, what about the girls, you cad" - have no fear, they are spoiled rotten in their own right, this time just happens to be for my beloved boys. Can't wait to give these to them on Sunday along with some stickers. Oh and I have some jewelry and stickers for the girls too. :-) Sure do love my babies!!!

Thanks for sharing in my joy today!!

A blast from the past...

2009-07-19T18:08:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was amazing. My High School had a reunion cookout. People that I hadn't seen in 14 years came together for a wonderful time of reminiscing and catching up.

Initially I wasn't sure about this, I thought I'd stop by for a little bit and see who was there and then once I'd had one too many awkward silences I'd make up some excuse and head out. Eight hours later (2 hours past the scheduled time of the end of the bbq) I had to tear myself away. As evidenced by the lobsterness of my shoulders in this picture, I had a fun time hanging out in the sun. It was like no time at all had passed, but it was also as if none of the drama of high school had ever happened. So many times throughout the day I just and looked around in amazement at how well it worked and how much fun I was having. It was like I had found a whole group of friends and family again.

Next year's already being planned, and hopefully we'll be having some get together's throughout the year. Can't wait.

Do I really have that much to say?

2009-07-09T07:35:00.000-07:00

I've joined Twitter, feel free to follow me. Between email, texting, Facebook, Blogging, and twitter I spend a lot of time trying to think about what to say. And then I start to wonder... do I really have that much of value to say that I need 4-5 outlets? Each outlet serves a different purpose though and connects me differently.

Texting is my favorite way to communicate with my beloved sister (other than in person). Our schedules rarely mirror each other and so we don't see each other or get to talk quite as often as I'd like. I had to update my monthly text allotment, simply to be able to communicate as often as I wanted. We text about ... everything. From the inane (like the current conversation consisting of how to avoid the evil swine flu that is "lurking" according to a recent news report) to the deep.

Facebook is a double-edged sword. I'm thrilled to be able to stay in touch with people like never before. I'm excited to have found people from past lives that I thought I'd never see again. The downside (well, beside those people that I'd rather have left in the past) is that it's quite impersonal at times in the sense that what I say has the potential of reaching all 350 on my friends list (yes, I'm THAT popular). It provides a means of sharing in my friend's lives in no way like it. Just today I was able to see pictures of one of my dear Nashville friends that reminded me of how much I miss her, and allows me to not lose touch. Besides, how else would I know what Hogwarts House the Sorting Hat would have put my friends in if I didn't have FB?

Email is our oldest of all these forms of communicating an sometimes get tossed aside for the easier means of communicating. Rather than receive emails, I get texts, posts on my wall or even messages within FB. It still works well for certain things though. My friend is spending the summer in Scotland (I won't get in to how deep the jealousy goes) and since we can't talk daily as we used to, we have gotten quite proficient at updating each other via email. It is the most personal of all these forms of communicating.

Blogging is a means of keeping people up to date on my life. One problem I have is that some of the things that I want to blog about shouldn't really be for public consumption. Eithr I'm upset at someone that might potentially read the blog, or I might offend people. I do enjoy it as an outlet though and should use it more often. Facebook updates and twitter have taken the place of blogging for me. The downside to that is that those are done in snippets without a lot of thought or explanation -- the blog post would then have the full story.

Twitter is my newest way of avoiding things that I need to do. I have this friend, we've been friends since high school. She's a dear friend of the family but I don't always see her or if I do it's a short "hi, how are you" before chaos ensues around us. Twitter has given me a means of connecting with her and following her passionate desire to protect this country from what's goin on around us. Without Twitter I don't know if I would have reconnected with her so well. Oh, and we talk about Twilight too.

Lest we forget the original form of communicating, I also write letters from time to time.

Give my regards to Broadway...

2009-02-22T08:49:00.000-08:00

A dear friend recently sent me this picture (check out where it came from here) because she knows of my undying love for my city. There just happens to be something about skylines that make my heart skip a beat. I enjoy the great outdoors and appreciate seeing stars, but LOVE cities... don't ask me to explain it.

I'm excited to be able to say that I'm going home to it. Sure, I'll be technically living in NJ, but will be taking any opportunity that I have to be close to my beloved NYC.

A new Ted Dekker.... Bone Man's Daughters

2009-02-05T07:23:00.001-08:00

Ok -- so anybody who reads Ted Dekker should really be surprised that he has a new book coming out - well, because he has written 22 books already.

This new book is with a new publisher though and so I'm excited to see if it has a new story line and a new tone ... so many of his books in recent times have started to run together.

Just by looking at the cover I knew that something was different. It's a new design and looks much closer to competing with the top authors in suspense right now.

The book comes out April 14th... I've requested an advance reader's copy so I'm hoping they grant my request and I can let you know what it's like before that.

The Wrong Question...

2009-01-08T07:26:00.000-08:00

A recent headling read "What's being done to make sure Americans are pursuing happiness?"

I assume that they're speaking to our right to "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness", but what baffled me was the emphasis on the last one.

I'm a bit more concerned with what's being done to protect my right to life ... not just mine, but all life - this includes babies and/or other people who society might not think worthy of life.

I'm also quite concerned with my right to liberty! At the rate our country is going we're looking to give away our liberties pretty quickly. Freedom isn't Free -- and yet we're so willing to hand it over at the first sight of discomfort.

Perhaps the problem lies in the fact that a question like that even needs to be asked .... happiness is a result of life and liberty and should never be a stand-alone right to be focused on.

AAaaaargh!!!

Happy New Year

2008-12-31T09:31:00.000-08:00

It's hard to believe that Christmas in Nashville has come and gone. I looked forward to it for so long, made plans and was giddy... and now it's a memory -- but a beautiful, sweet memory!

The picture you see here is so perfect because it's so indicative of what any time with my family is like. Even if you add the other half of the family that wasn't able to join us in Nashville, this would be what they would have been doing as well.

There was a survey here at work about what my resolution for this new year will be... and I started thinking about it. God gives us a new year... a time to start over. Our calendar could have just been a list of days stretched out before us but God knew that we would need fresh starts, a time for renewal. This year is a little different for me than others because I started my biggest resolution about 2 months ago. I started eating healthy and have lost 23lbs -- I'd like to continue that, but on top of that I resolve to have a new year... one that's different than the old because it's full of growth and change.

I pray you are ready for a time of renewal as well!!

A Christmas First...

2008-12-15T07:53:00.001-08:00

I my be a bit biased, but I am of the opinion that the Christmas tree pictured here could quite possibly be the best one this world has ever seen. Of course, it's also the first one I have ever had. I've always been willing to partake of other people's trees -- even participate in the decorating of them --- but this one is all mine. I picked it, paid for it, carried it inside (yes, all 7ft of it), strung it with lights, and decorated it!

I know that anybody reading this knows how wonderful I think my family is -- but this year they have chosen to come celebrate Christmas in Nashville with me and I am forever honored. *(Unfortunately my brother's family won't be able to make the trek and they shall be missed)*. I am looking forward to having them here and have thoroughly enjoyed decorating them. I figured that with them all coming I should have a tree and as soon as my sister holds up her end of the bargain, the kiddie poos stockings will be hung by the fire with care!

We may have to eat in shifts since I can only seat/serve 4 at a time, but I'm sure that it will be glorious.

May you all have a wonderful Christmas with your family as I drink in a full week with mine giving thanks for them and for having a great God who is BIG enough to send His Son to be born for us but for also caring about the details of having us enjoy our time together.

A Couple Memes

2008-12-12T08:07:00.000-08:00

My friend Tanya tagged me in her latest post so it's my turn to do a meme post. Hers was very long so I'll do a revised version... maybe at another time I'll do the rest.

6 Things I value:
Faith - sustains me
Family - uphold me
Friends - entertain me :-)
Health
Politics
Books

6 Things I support
Separation of church FROM state
Rights for the unborn and helpless
Marriage for one man and one woman
Paying my own bills without bailouts!!
Girls Against Pornography
Conservative (AKA accurate) interpretation of Scripture

And there ya have it!! Oh... and MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!

I voted and now it's in the Lord's hands!

2008-10-31T11:00:00.000-07:00

My hands were trembling, my heart was pleading with my Savior as I stood in that little cubbie they give you to vote in. I knew this one meant something ... this time voting was different. Regardless of the outcome the vote that I cast yesterday is going to mean something. It could mean that my candidate (while granted not my ideal one) and his VP (ideal as they come) could be president, and we are (at least for now) on the right path to protecting some of our most prized rights. It could also mean that my candidate didn't win and that one of the most liberal candidates ever has now become our leader and my vote means that I will have to work that much harder to fight for the things that I believe in and to do my part to protect my beloved country from his menacing plans.

May God bless America and have Mercy on us all!! Regardless of the outcome my God is BIG and greater is He that is in me, than he that is in the World! Cover this election in prayer!

It's Not Your Fault

2008-09-30T08:41:00.000-07:00

You've heard the commercials.... "Do you owe thousands of dollars in credit card debt... just trying to live your life". The basic premise is that your debt isn't your fault, it's just bad luck or my favorite -- it's those evil credit card companies that are charging you interest.

Here's my question.... did you really think that credit card companies are your friend? Did you forget that they were going to charge you interests? No, the problem is that we think we deserve to have everything... and since we can't afford everything we deserve to have someone else pay for it for us. Then of course, when we can't afford to pay it back, we deserve to have someone wipe that debt clean for us so that we can do it all over again! No wonder we're in trouble in our financial sector! We all want everything, but nobody wants to pay for it.

I understand that sometimes people get into debt because of unforeseen tragedies, but the majority of this country (myself included) are in debt because of their inability to say no. NO, I don't need a new car this year... NO, I don't need to go to the Bahamas 3 times in college (personal experience), NO I don't need a new pair of pants today since I can't afford them.

And here's my final "no". NO -- it is not someone else's responsibility to bail me out of my own decisions!

Do You Dare?

2008-09-26T09:07:00.000-07:00

In theaters starting today is a movie called "FireProof". This movie is so very crucial in the fight for marriages that are falling apart. I've seen the movie and it brought me to tears. Kurt Cameron stars as a firefighter who's a hero to everyone except for his wife. As he's about to give up and walk away, his father challenges him to "The Love Dare". It's a 40-day challenge to love your spouse. A challenge a day, of a new way to show your spouse true love, in a journal format!

My employer publishes this book -- but that's not why I'm talking about this book. I'm talking about it because of the tremendous impact this book/movie can have on the state of our marriages. We have already printed 500,000 copies and have to go back to reprint because of the high demand. People across the country and the world (Spanish edition will be available in Nov.) have been clamoring for this book. We've received emails from so many sources, requesting praying for their marriages as they try this last time to save what has gone bad.

Let's stand up! I challenge everybody, even if you think that your marriage is good, to take this challenge. Our families is where the devil is attacking right now, let's not give him a stronghold!

This World is Not My Home...

2008-09-18T09:19:00.001-07:00

I was walking back from a meeting today and a song came to me... and this song is something that I've been feeling lately. I'll give you the song, and then I'll continue (Click here to see the rest and the copyright info, so as to not infringe).

"This world is not my home, I'm just a passing through,
my treasures are laid up somewhere byond the blue,
The angels beckon from heaven's open doors,
and I can't feel at home in this world anymore."

The beauty of this feeling is that it's what we're supposed to be feeling as Christians. If you feel to "at home" here, you might have to stop and take inventory. I can't go anywhere without it hitting me in the face "this world is SO not my home". I can't read the newspaper, watch a movie, read a book, or even work at a Christian publishing house without realizing how so much of the world has discreetly permeated every thought base. Nobody stands for truth anymore because we're trying to placate this world!

The danger in thinking of this world as not our home is that we just sit back and don't get involved. You know I'm not one to sit back and not voice my opinion. My point is to remind us that BECAUSE this world is not our home, we must do everything possible to stand for something, to have purpose in our lives.

This World is not our home, let's fight as hard as we can to make what we do count in our heavenly HOME!!!

Where were you....

2008-09-11T07:10:00.000-07:00

Being in Nashville, so far away from the city I love - make this anniversery that much hard. (I sit crying as I write this -- this picture is the view I had out the window of the office building I worked in)

I got a text message from my sister this morning and it verbalized what I'd been thinking since I got up this morning... "I still thank God that you were with me 'when the world stopped turning'".

From the moment I woke up... since my alarm is talk radio, I was reminded of the day 7 years ago when in the midst of chaos, God protected me and those that I love. I'll never forget anything about that day... I remember walking to work thinking "i'm so bored with this day already". My sister remember staring at her newspaper and thinking "what a boring news day". Little did we know what was to come, but what I do know is that God blessed the events of that day in such a way that my sister and I were together. If we hadn't happened to be on the same floor when we were evacuated we could have been on the same block and never known it.

I was supposed to have a chiropractor's appt. that morning downtown by the towers, and since all of you know how I feel about mornings -- I decided to postpone. God cancelled a meeting that my mama was supposed to be at. God miraculously kept my sister-in-law in His loving arms as she experienced tragedy first hand at the foot of the towers --- but that is her story of grace to tell, I'm just thankful she's around to tell it.

I toyed with making the title of this post "Have you Forgotten"... because so many times it's easy to go through life wihout remembering that day... the day where God provided a Christian family to give us a ride home on a day where all the busses and cabs were either full of price-gouging. Some of you may be reading this and thinking about why God didn't protect everyone, or whether I would be as big on God if one of my family members had been taken. I can tell you, that while I pray on a regular basis for the protection of my loved ones, that God is good... ALL the time!! His plan is bigger than us, and his love knows no bounds.... in the words of a man who knew tragedy "The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away, blessed be the name of the Lord (Job. 1:21 ESV).

May you all remember HIS goodness as we remember a day that proves man's need for it.

My Vacation....

2008-09-05T13:04:00.001-07:00

Here is a picture of me and Kaity enjoying the photo booth on the Ocean City boardwalk. She really got the knack of waiting for the light and then smiling for the camera. Then the booth ran out of paper and we had to use another one and she was a bit frazzled by the whole thing -- I still love the picture though.

Take Heart Sarah Palin

2008-09-03T11:05:00.000-07:00

I have much more to say on this matter, and I will as time allows. I personally think that picking Sarah Palin as his running mate is the most brilliant thing that John McCain has ever done. It has made me excited about this election at a time when I wasn't sure that I could bring myself to vote!

I'm so frustrated with the way the media has just proven their double standard. People Magazine (a website I will no longer frequent) has run several stories on Obama and his brilliant career, beautiful family... (I hope you can sense the sarcasm dripping as you read). As far as Republicans are concerned, they have only discussed the pregnancy of a 17-year old girl that is not even running for office. In my next post I will get into more specifics about this nonsense, but for now I'd like to encourage Sarah with some brilliant words from a brilliant woman...

“I always cheer up immensely if an attack is particularly wounding because I think, well, if they attack one personally, it means they have not a single political argument left.”

Margaret Thatcher (pictured here with another brilliant politician)

VINDICATION: After I wrote this article I went to foxnews.com and check out the article I found... I'm ahead of the curve people!!

Las Paletas ... delicious Mexican Popsicles

2008-09-02T09:48:00.000-07:00

I found out about this place on "Throw down with Bobby Flay" -- the owners are from Guadalajara which is the city in Mexico that I was born in. I found them this past weekend and they are fantastic. I wasn't able to meet the owners, but I'm sure I will since I'm planning my new route home by this place. :-) I had the tamarind chile flavor ... yup, tamarind with chile powder! :-) If you're from Nashville and want directions to "Las Paletas", let me know!

Bane of my existence..

2008-08-28T11:58:00.000-07:00

I don't know why anyone would, but if you are considering by a Saturn Vue... or any Saturn vehicle for that matter, DON'T DO IT! You will regret every minute of it. I am now having to replace the horn for the SECOND time and since nobody has died yet because of the faulty thing, a recall won't be ordered. I want to be done with this thing, but since I'm not pouring another $1,000 into a new horn I will have to drive this ugly contraption until my grandkids are driving!!!!

And I'm Back...

2008-08-27T11:42:00.000-07:00

The building right behind Billy Graham is where I work (at least until we are moved next week to the building behind the building behind Billy -- did you follow?). My office is one of the windows cut off in the picture right below Billy's raised hands. I have loved this office and will miss my large window.

I have returned from vacation -- a glorious time was had by all. Most of the time was spent lying on the beach (picture with my tan to come), reading, napping, and playing with the kids (grown and non-grown). Bookstores were visited, boardwalks were walked, waves were ridden, jellyfish were avoided... and the fun continued.

I had such an amazing vacation that it was definitely harder to come back to Nashville this time -- but here I am and on to my next adventure.

If you want to find me, look 'down the shore'

2008-08-14T09:23:00.001-07:00

No TV... What was I Thinking?

2008-08-11T09:30:00.001-07:00

Ok.... as mentioned earlier in the year... on this very blog, I have decided to give up my tv. The truth is, I haven't really missed it. If I want to see a specific show I just watch in online for free, or if I feel like vegging on a Saturday I watch a video. But right now .... at this exact time in history I am regretting my decision for nothing other than the Olympics. I hate the fact that I won't get to see Michael Phelps make history, that I will only be able to read about it... :-( Once the Games are over, I will go back to my content self without a tv, but for now I wallow in my sorrow!

Hero to my Nieces & Nephews

2008-08-05T07:07:00.000-07:00

Guess who I met? The Berenstein Bears -- I know that to some of you that may not seem like a big deal .... but to my nieces and nephews... I'm going to be SO cool. Anybody that knows me knows that I live to be cool in their eyes.

Sammy's First Kiss

2008-07-30T06:47:00.001-07:00

OH -- this picture is way too cute for words. He was even gentlemanly enough to take his hat off first.

This was after a day of tie-dying of shirts by Ellie's mom with a group of kids. Thanks for sharing this picture with me.

Blog Referral...

2008-06-12T14:22:00.000-07:00

"A government big enough to give you everything you want, is strong enough to take everything you have." - President Ford

Check out the brilliance that is my sister by reading her most recent post (Entitled "Nostalgia Ain't What It Used To Be") by clicking on the quote above.

Happy Anniversary

2008-06-10T14:39:00.000-07:00

My sister and her husband are celebrating 8 years of marriage and two beautiful children.

Congratulations Scherners!

Thank you for being an example of a great marriage and of great parents!

NEW Ted Dekker!!!!

2008-06-09T11:51:00.001-07:00

Very few things make me as happy as when one of my favorite authors comes out with a new book. Ted Dekker is one of my ALL time favorites authors and he has just realeased "Adam". I have no doubt that it will be strange, because most of his are, but I am thrilled to curl up with this one. I was able to buy it thanks to a gift certificate courtesy of my brothers family, so thanks to you all for this great (I anticipate) book. Another one of my favorite authors (David Baldacci) released a new book too, but I'm waiting patiently for the call from the library to say that a copy is available....

Love....

2008-06-06T15:44:00.000-07:00

Some of you may wonder why I love going back to NJ every chance I get and I just thought I'd share with you four of the people that bring me the greatest joy I could ever know. I semi-remember life before Myia was born, but I don't dwell there, because who would want to? My little girl just turned 5 and I've been blessed with three more little ones that have made my heart bigger than I could ever have imagined. I miss them so much and look forward to the next time I get to go back to NJ.

Truth.... From my perspective!

2008-06-02T08:07:00.000-07:00

Webster states that if something is true, it is "being in accordance with the actual state of affairs". It seems to me that there can't be room for perspective in "actual state of affairs". Why then, when Scott Mcclellan says that his book is "truth", from his perspective, does nobody point out that truth is either true or it isn't? Since everyone is conviced of what they want to believe about the Bush administration, regardless of facts, people are jumping at a book that "proves" what they have always believed.

(My) Truth is that this post isn't even about what you believe about the Bush adminstration - it's about my deep disdain for relative truth, and my even deeper disdain for people who finally find their "voice" when there's a book deal available. If Scott truly felt this strongly about what he's writing about, why was he able to continue in his job without any problems. Now all of a sudden we're supposed to trust that he's telling the truth.... from his perspective? Perhaps his perspective is a little skewed by $$$$$$$.

Just my perspective .....

Reasons I love the South.... take 1

2008-05-06T13:31:00.000-07:00

After having lived in the Northeast for so many years, I've had to learn a completely new way of living in Nashville. Things have come up that are SO not typical of what I'm used to and I think I'll share them as they come up.

I went to lunch today with my designer and I got out of his truck to go into the restaurant he says to me "Make sure the window's rolled up, my shot gun is in the back".

Perhaps only if you are a Yankee will you understand how out of the norm this is for me. :-)

Things left undone!

2008-04-22T16:11:00.000-07:00

I walked into my second bedroom today I was faced with the image of a half-finished punching bag stand and started berating myself for not just finishing it and setting it all up. Now, in my defense .... it's really complicated and tiresome and it's taken a lot of work just to get the parts together that you see. I stood there for a few minutes and decided to photograph the situation and post it here in hopes that I would wonder whether people would ask me about it and that would encourage me to continue the process and finally get it all put together. I walked out to find my camera and up on my return I was faced with ... the painting that has been sitting on the desk for weeks now unfinished. It seems I have things in my life that I get pretty motivated about and then, once the motivation dies, I leave to sit there as reminders.

All this to say -- I am determined to work on this quality. I want to be someone that completes things. Last night I was reading Philippians 1.6 and praising God for his promise to continue His work in me until completion -- aren't you glad that we dont' have to worry about God's motivation running out and Him moving on to something else?

Just a thought .....

Chivalry.... is it dead?

2008-04-21T16:11:00.001-07:00

I came across this picture recently and the above question came to mind. Is your life really that stressful that you can't carry your own umbrella or is it that you think THAT highly of yourself?

Say Goodbye to Hollywood

2008-03-26T11:45:00.000-07:00

Ok -- so for a very long time I've known that my TV has been in charge of my life. Moving to Nashville and becoming acquainted with DVR was the final step in the mind control it had.

Well, I've broken free -- I have discontinued cable and will be removing both televisions from my home -- Hollywood will no longer determine how I spend my evenings.

This decision has just earned me $100/month plus the endless hours I have had returned to me to do with as I please .... let the reading begin!

A Glimpse

2008-01-29T16:08:00.000-08:00

This is a glimpse into my living room in my wonderful apartment. I was in the midst of packing to head home for the holidays so it's not as neat as I always have it -- nor did that picture on the wall stay there. The door you see behind the couch is the second bedroom and behind me as I photographed this is the kitchen. I'm sure you've already picked up on my wonderful deck :-)

The picture of the kitchen was taken before I purchased the couch so the red chair that should be right in front of the kitchen had not been moved yet to make place for my awesome couch. I love the openess of the kitchen. Directly behind where the picture on the wall is the 1/2 bath that guests can use and behind the bookshelf is where the entrance to the apartment is and the laundry room ..... still to come -- to my left is the dining room and my bedroom. Don't hold your breath but I will try to post them soon.

2008 off to a GREAT start!!!

2008-01-02T11:21:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately my little guy Sammy had had enough of his picture taken so the picture only includes three of my precious babies!

It's the second day of the month and I've accomplished the two things that I wanted to. I joined the YMCA and got my library card. These may not seem like big accomplishments, but I've been putting them off for long enough and really wanted to get them done. On the list for tomorrow... TN driver's license and car registration.

I know that this time of year fills us all with hope of what the new year holds -- the hope that this year will be different than the last.... that this will be the year that you don't break your resolutions. I really want to look back on this year with satisfaction both of what I've accomplished and who I have become -- I'm starting a diet b/c this is the year that I stop denying that I'm overweight, I'm going to read more and watch less tv.... I'm going to not be such a hermit -- or at least use my hermiting time wisely. :-) Maybe this is the year of my great artistic masterpiece.

Well -- all that to say I'm excited about what this year holds. Oh, and another long-awaited accomplishment... updating my blog! yay!

Newest Nashville Star

2007-09-30T11:34:00.000-07:00

Many of you may already know that I'm moving to Nashville, TN in a little less than two weeks. I hope to chronicle my adventures here.

Someone once told me that for someone who has so much to say, I don't update my blog very often... I hope that will change.

I am in Nashville right now, hoping to find the perfect little apartment. I say little, but compared to the studio that I've been living in for the past year, my new place will probably seem like a palace!!

My work with "International Marketing Specialist" with Lifeway Publishing begins on October 16th. I'm excited to see what this new position holds for me and how my life experiences can benefit their International Sales Dept.

Well, my relocation specialist is waiting to take me to see apartments.

I'll keep everyone updated.

Teaching Terror

2007-04-03T12:56:00.000-07:00

This picture was posted on www.foxnews.com and I just don't even have enough words to explain how disturbing this is.

Happy Feet

2006-11-27T10:53:00.000-08:00

I know what you're thinking... what does a cartoon have to do with the political rantings of this conservative pundit? Well, as I sat down to enjoy the cartoon I wasn't thinking that it would have a political agenda that I would have to stomach for 98 minutes. Luckily I paid the matinee price so I only supported them with $6.50 and not the usual $9.

Ok, so most people that know me say that I think things through too much and find messages in movies that aren't really there or that others haven't seen. Here is the most obvious political agenda that I noted: the evil humans that are fishing and therefore taking away the livelihood of the poor, helpless penguins who really just want to eat fish and find their "heart song" so that they can find their true love. The more subtle jabs that were taken were aimed at Christians who blindly follow their faith without questioning it and proponents of immigration reform because it was; after all, the Spanish (documentation questionable) penguins that helped Happy Feet stand strong against the crowd and make a difference.

Well, now you can make a fully informed decision about whether or not you want to see this movie. Some of you might think that it looks cute enough and you'll just ignore the agenda... I should also note that it's not really that funny or well written.

Might I suggest reading a good book instead? :)

Ok - so here's the following disclaimer. I'm not saying that perhaps our fishing methods in the regions of the penguins can't be more careful so as to ensure that there's no littering, etc. But SERIOUSLY -- I don't need to be tricked into seeing a movie that makes this point. Make a documentary and call it -- "Sad Penguins Miss Their Fish".

Leave Me Alone, I'm Reading

2006-09-26T09:29:00.000-07:00

"It's not that I don't like people. It's just that when I'm in the company of others -- even my nearest and dearest -- there always comes a moment when I'd rather be reading a book." (Maureen Corrigan, Leave Me Alone, I'm Reading)

From the moment I read that statement I thought it quite possible that Maureen Corrigan and I would be kindred spirits. Sitting in a library, surrounded by books, is a place of peace and relaxation. There's an entire town in Scotland dedicated to books -- Wigtown "Scotland's National Book Town" -- what could be better than that. I would have spent more time there had I had it and the books not been just a tad too expensive.

All that to say the following... anybody who knows me knows that I love books. I love to read them, I love to have them on my shelves, I love to talk about them, and if I'm honest, sometimes I just simply love the smell of them. Pictures of books, stories about book collecting.... you name it, I love it. It's a passion that was passed down to me from my father and is shared by my brother and sister and some of my dearest friends. I remember once that the husband of one of my dear friends once told her that she had to many books because they had run out of shelf space... I felt that a true lover of the written word would have known that new bookshelves were needed in order to accomodate all the books to come.

I am sometimes wary of recommending books in mass because I know that everyone has different tastes and just because I think that a book is excellent doesn't mean that you will. I have read several books over the past year or so that have just been outstanding and feel the need to share (that is, if anyone's reading this). The same husband that I referenced earlier proved himself to be a kindred spirit of reading when he introduced me to Ted Dekker and his Circle Trilogy Series. I was a bit hesistant, mostly because it's not usually what I read and at the beginning it sounded like Dekker's theology might be a little out there. I try to take book suggestions though because it always makes me sad when people don't think that my recommendations are worth looking into so I forged ahead with Black, the first book in the series. Many of you have already heard me tell you that the third book in the series, White, had me in tears as I finished reading it while sitting in a Starbucks in Edinburgh, Scotland. Since this fantastic introduction I have continued to read Dekker's work with awe at his portrayal of good vs. evil. Some of what he writes is STRANGE, but he does always tie things in well. His book Blink was so moving and I think all should read this accurate portrayal of how Islamic women are treated. Some of the statements made about the Prophet Mohammed encompass the most honest portrayal I've read.

Another great book that I've read recently is The Yada-Yada Prayer Group by Neta Jackson. I don't usually read Christian fiction, especially those written for women, simply because I find them to be shallow and fluffy. I decided to try this because the recommendation came from a good source, and because I've been wanting to fill my mind with things other than the police mysteries I seem obsessed with. Again, the true beauty of this book wasn't shown until you see how Neta brings it all together in the end in a beautiful reminder that we are all sinners in need of a gracious Saviour.

Please share your book love with me -- let me know what books have changed your life. I think that I'll bring this topic up from time to time when I have other books to recommend. I also recommend a book journal, a place to record why you loved a book and what made it so special to you.

Read on dear friends - because that's where I'm going right now!!

Remember. . .

2006-09-10T17:37:00.000-07:00

The older I get the more dates I have that are "remember" dates. I remember when five years ago I walked on to the 62nd floor of Rockefeller Plaza and saw the the first tower burning with a large gaping hole. The memories of that day are as clear as if they happened yesterday, the horror that I felt as I stood in front of St. Patrick's Cathedral and watched the towers fall hasn't exactly subsided with time. Every February 13th I remember the day in 1991 when I had to leave my home in Ecuador and start all over here in the US. December 26th is the day that a dear friend of mine died.

Remembrance isn't always simply about a set of facts that we recall, sometimes it's about what we do with those set of facts. Tonight at church I was reminded of that fact. The Lord's Supper is about remembering... remembering in this case should evoke an action. If we remember that Jesus died for us then it evokes the questions "what does this mean?" and "how does this change things?". Remembering Christ's death is of no consequence unless it changes our behavior.

Remember...

Hollywood and those Award Shows

2006-08-28T07:42:00.000-07:00

Let me ask you a question, how many times a year do you and your colleagues get together and dress to the nines just to pat each other on the back for a the work you're being paid to do? Ok, so maybe you see where I'm going with this. Where is the need for a new award show at every turn? Not only do they have an award show for everything they do, they have thousands of dollars in free gifts given to the richest group of people in this country.

Ok, so before you all accuse me of just being jealous and bitter that I don't have free things handed out to me (even though I don't quite make their salary), let me explain that this is not an envious rant. It has more to do with the fact that these people take themselves SO seriously, and they will continue to do so until WE stop taking them seriously.

Stores give free stuff to someone who made $25 million for 3 months worth of work. George Clooney had the right idea when he sold his goody bag and donated the money to charity, but why can't the original donation be given to charity from the get go? We give stuff to them so that they can look generous by donating it?

Here's the thing... they will continue to take themselves seriously as long as we take them seriously. As long as we continue to think that this behavior is rational they will continue acting this way. As long as we think that making Public Service Announcements is the best thing that people can do to help the people of this nation... they will continue to think that their little PSA's make THAT much of a difference. Does it really matter who Madonna thinks I should vote for? Does it really matter that P. Diddy thinks that the administration isn't doing the right thing? Let me get this straight.... they make an asinine amount of money for doing nothing that deserves it, tell everyone else how they should live and spend their money, keep all of their money for themselves and live ridiculously extravagant lives.... and on top of that they think they know what's best for the country.

NO THANK YOU!

BUSH WAS RIGHT!

2006-08-17T07:42:00.000-07:00

This song is fantastic and says it all. I'm so proud of him.

A Place of My Very Own

2006-08-12T12:43:00.000-07:00

I will be leaving on vacation for a whole week!! YAY!! Ocean City, here I come.

The day has arrived... well, the day will arrive in another week! :) I will have a place of my very own (as stated in the title). God has provided an amazing deal, which is the only way that I would be able to afford living on my own in this costly part of the country. Utilities, cable, and wireless are all included into one low cost. Those of you who live close will have to schedule a time to stop by and see my abode, and for those of you living far away I will try to post some pictures once I'm settled in.

Have a good week.

Professional .... and paid, Artist

2006-08-01T08:34:00.000-07:00

Anybody who knew my disdain for art class in high school will find the irony in this... I have just sold my first piece of art. I was asked to do something similar to the piece shown in my previous post. I asked my dad if this made me an artist and his response was that it simply changed my status from an artist to a professional artist.

My Newest Masterpiece

2006-07-18T14:26:00.000-07:00

New York Law WINS

2006-07-06T08:20:00.000-07:00

The courts in the state of New York ruled that their laws do not allow for gay marriage. Click here if you're interested in reading the article... and stay informed. Even if you don't live in NY, this will affect you. It is now up to the legislature to decided whether or not to change the laws. Maybe if Christians could start being a little more vocal we could take back NY from the liberals... and maybe even NJ -- I'm in a state whose government is shut down because of liberal politics... will we remember these things come time to vote?

Extra Extra -- Read All About It!

2006-06-30T10:19:00.000-07:00

I first started this blog to have a place to vent my frustrations at the politics of our day. I became so frustrated that I found my blood pressure rising if I thought about the topic for very long so I moved away from that kind of writing. I have just been implored to continue commenting and so I shall.... stay tuned for the following stories... Rick Warren (ok, so it won't just be about politics), New York Times and their nonsense, Democrats and their little world, Al Gore (is he serious?), weapons of mass destruction (look at that, they found some), international law guiding our laws (aren't we the super power?), and immigration (no, this doesn't make me racist).... and so many more. If you're interested in a topic, let me know and I will do the research and give my opinion because you'd be hard-pressed to find a topic that I don't have a strong opinion about. :)

Seriously people, one of my frustrations is the apathy and ignorance of the American voter (or non-voter). More so than the average American, how can the church not be intimately involved in politics -- do you really believe that if we ignore the things that are going on around us it won't come back to haunt us? We have freedoms that are slowly being taken away from us because we're too afraid to fight or to be labeled a "born-again", "right-winged", "conservative" (horrors) or anything else the ACLU (don't get me started on them) wants to call us in order to advance their cause. Do your beliefs really mean that little to you that you can't defend them? Remember, not everything we believe or do is going to be popular -- John 15:19 states "I chose you out of the world, because of this the world hates you." Stand strong knowing that greater is HE that is in you than he that is in the world.

Tomato or Lauralin?

2006-06-29T08:00:00.000-07:00

If you see me soon you might wonder whether it's a tomato you're seeing or whether it's me. I took a couple of days vacation and spent them at a local spa. The first day I had a wonderful seaweed wrap and then decided to spend some time by the pool. Sunblock? I don't need sunblock, I'm not going to be out that long and it's not really that sunny. You can't tell me that my reasoning hasn't crossed your mind in the past. Well, imagine my chagrin when several hours later I realized that I began to resemble this picture here. I had to cancel my massage and facial for the second day b/c anything touching my skin made me cringe... so I spent the rest of my spa vacation huddled up under and umbrella reading my book and trying desperately not to move so as to not cry out in pain. At least I can say that I came back from my two days off relaxed, even if I will turn wrinkled soon and perhaps even contract skin cancer.

So -- a warning to all of your. Wear sunblock.

Of course, since I never get any comments posted I'm never sure if anyone's reading this and my warning could be lost in cyberspace.

Happy Summer

2006-06-26T07:28:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how much time has gone by since my last post -- life is flying. Since April I have been in SO many different states. April started my travels off with a visit to Los Angelas (as mentioned in my last post). Shortly after that I traveled with my sister and the baby (interesting experience) to Texas to visit my dear friend Keri and her family. May kicked off with six 14-hr days in Miami and June included a trip to South Bend, IN for a convention at Notre Dame University. If you count the fact that I travel freely between NJ and NY and a recent trip to PA for a wedding... (and a layover in Chicago) that makes 7 states since April, gotta love those frequent flyers miles.

No big plans for the summer and no big vacations planned as I have in years past -- just waiting to see if any good deals come up that I want to take advantage of.

Work continues to go well -- although it is still just work.

One More President Off My List

2006-04-05T11:30:00.000-07:00

As I drove through Austin, TX a couple of years ago I stumbled across the Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Library. This twist of fate brought a new mission into my life and I have embarked on a quest to visit Presidential Libraries across the country (Rest assured: I have no plans, interest, or gumption to visit the Clinton Hall of Lies).

At the end of a tour of the LBJ Ranch, my friend and I overheard someone mutter to himself "one more dead president off my list". How sad, I thought, that this was just a checklist for him and not an opportunity to learn about men that have shaped our country (for good or bad).

The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, CA is the latest of the libraries that I have been priviledged to visit. The third so far (Kennedy's in Boston was last summer). Words can not describe the inspiration that I felt while looking at the history of one of the... no THE best President this country has ever had.

I was able to tour the Air Force One used by 7 presidents and hear Ronald and Nancy themselves give me a guided tour through the museum. A piece of the Berlin wall sits in the back, and to see the side that faced communist Germany was a reminder of the difference. While the free side was decorated, not a single thing adorned the other side. The back yard of the Libary is an exact replicaof the South Lawn of the White House and to the left of it is Ronald Reagan resting place.

I thought about putting a quote here from Ronald Reagan but couldn't begin to pick just one. The Great Communicator has inspired me over the years with his insight into the beautiful things about this country and also his determination to stand for freedom. I encourage anyone who can to visit this place and be reminded of the man who reminded us of the greatness of America.

The REAL Most Wonderful Time of the Year

2006-03-14T13:04:00.000-08:00

Most people think that the subject line refers to Christmas. The truth is that it really refers to the beginning of baseball season. Spring training has arrived and with it -- the arrival of Spring and of the most wonderful sports season of all time!! This picture was taken last season -- I will have to update dear Kaitlyn's wardrobe with new memorabilia to celebrate BASEBALL SEASON!!!

Longer Here Than There

2006-02-13T14:08:00.000-08:00

Today in History.... February 13, 1991 is a day that will forever be seared in my mind. It's the day that I had to say good-bye to people that had become my family and to a country that was my home.

I've now spent fifteen years here in the United States -- a country that I have grown to love... but it was hard when I realized that I had spent longer here than I had in the country of Ecuador. I was there for 13 years and I still consider myself mostly to be "Ecuadorian" even though it's not one of my 3 citizenships.

I am Green! The mantra of all missionary kids -- Part Blue (Ecuador) + Part Yellow (US) = Green. Who knew that 15 years later I would feel the same love for the country that today makes me feel "blue"?

Generations of Kindred Spirits

2006-02-10T09:26:00.000-08:00

This picture of is Brynna Avery Nicole Gilbert -- the daughter of one of my dearest friends. Her mama, Keri Gilbert, and I have been friends since we were only a little bit older than Brynna.

I've been blessed by my friendship with Keri over the years -- we attended camp together, went to college together for a while, I lived with her in TX, and we have managed to see each other at least once a year (3 this year) for as long as I can remember. Her family is like family and I've made some other fabulous friendships just by knowing her.

Now I've had the pleasure of getting to know her little girl -- and have the joy of knowing that as our families continue to grow -- her children and mine (or my nieces at this point) will be friends for years to come and will continue the tradition of friendship that has been established over the years.

Thank you Keri for your friendship, for the wonderful visit in Texas that I had, and for the years of memories to come.

The Sound of a Brook

2006-02-07T10:34:00.000-08:00

I don't know about you, but I LOVE sitting next to a stream or a brook and just listening to it -- it's peaceful and relaxing. That's why when I came across the following quote it struck a chord (no pun intended, really) with me.

"A brook would lose its song if God removed its rocks"

Think of that if you are going through hard times and wish that those 'rocks' weren't there.

Happy New Year

2006-01-27T13:24:00.000-08:00

Ok - so it's a belated wish for a happy new year, considering we're arriving to the end of January, but it's my first real post of the year 2006 so I felt it fitting.What a busy holiday time it was, I can hardly believe that it's over and that we're back to life as normal (well, whatever normal really is around here). I've quit my job at Ann Taylor so that will give me some extra time but don't worry, I'm finding ways to fill it up again. I have been doing the score board for the high school basketball games at Hawthorne Christian Academy and that takes up to 3 of my nights each week -- but I love it.

I've been busy with work too -- finalizing the Spanish catalog along with several other projects I'm working on. This new position is so much more draining than the last -- I find myself completely worn out at the end of the night.

There are too many political issues going on right now that I'm so frustrated with .... some I'm even exasperated with but I haven't had time to truly sit down and write anything thorough so I haven't posted them.

One unbelievable great thing in my life is the lack of back pain. My friend Leigh-Ann introduced me to her chiropractor and have 9 months of seeing mine with no results I gave in and switched. He (in one visit) diagnosed me with gallbladder issues that were manifesting themselves in back pain and I've never felt better!! Using pressure points and things of that sort he got it working well again. Woo Hoo for no back pain.

More to come...

2006-01-05T08:46:00.000-08:00

The Whole Family!

2006-01-05T08:43:00.000-08:00

Christmas Day with my beloved nieces/nephew.

The Gift of Art

2005-12-20T11:38:00.000-08:00

Last Christmas I asked my mom for a gift certificate to Pearl Paints -- a local art shop -- so that I could buy some new supplies. Instead my mom did some research and found a great art studio in the area and paid for me to start weekly art classes (oh, and she gave me the supplies as well). Something that had only ever been my private dabblings into art turned into a love of art that I could never have expected. Mr. Patterson (my art instructor) has shown me how to express myself through drawing and water colors and has provided a safe haven for me to escape to on a weekly basis for two hours that HAVE to be devoted to art without the interruptions of life.

This parakeet is one of my earlier water colors ... I'll share more with you as I remember to bring them to work and scan them.

Who sealed "Stanley "Tookie" Williams' Fate?

2005-12-14T11:13:00.000-08:00

The day that Arnold Schwarzenegger denied clemency for a convicted murderer a local radio station declared that "Governor Schwarzenegger has sealed Stanely's fate". It's the ultimate example of someone not being responsible for their actions. Williams sealed his own fate when he chose to start a gang that is estimated to have killed over 10,000 people, a gang that is blamed for introducing "crack" into the United States -- a gang that requires you to either commit a crime in front of witness or, as a girl, to just have sex with several of the older members in order to join.

The governor stated as reasons for denying clemency not only that Williams never actually accepted responsiblity for the murders that he's convicted of committing, but he also mentioned the following in his 6-page statement: (taken from an article entitled "Schwarzenegger Terminates Stanely Tookie Williams")

" While in prison, Williams became a children’s author but his dedications cast further doubt on redemption. About the book ‘Life In Prison’ Schwarzenegger writes “This book was published in 1998, several years after Williams’ claimed redemptive experience. Specifically, the book is dedicated to “Nelson Mandela, Angela Davis, Malcolm X, Assata Shakur, Geronimo Ji Jaga Pratt, Ramona Africa, John Africa, Leonard Peltier, Dhoruba Al-Mujahid, George Jackson, Mumia Abu-Jamal, and the countless other men, women, and youths who have to endure the hellish oppression of living behind bars.” The mix of individuals on this list is curious. Most have violent pasts and some have beenconvicted of committing heinous murders, including the killing of law enforcement.” Article

The NAACP stated that if he was put to death, their "secret weapon" against gang violence was being taken away from them. Where to begin.... um, a convicted murderer is all they have to work with in their fight against gang violence? Doesn't it make more sense that he serves as a better example having been executed for his crimes, than if he convinced everyone to let him live. The death penalty is to serve as a deterrant -- let this show people in gangs that there are consequences to your actions, beyond the lives that have been ruined.

Stanley Williams may have changed later in life, the truth may never be known, but if he was the only one that could make a difference in the fight against gang violence or if he is the only one that we can find to praise for speaking out against gangs then I think that we must start fresh and try harder this time.

Busy Busy Busy

2005-12-14T11:08:00.000-08:00

Life always seems to get pretty busy around this time of year -- I don't get to keep in touch with as many people as I'd like or even just spend as much down time as I'd like. Some weeks I feel like I don't have one night without something scheduled. Monday nights I have art class, Tuesday night I have Bible Study, Wednesday night I teach a Bible Study and the other nights I'm either working at Ann Taylor or doing something else that I've managed to fit into my busy schedule. I'm not a person that knows what to do with "down time", I get so excited when I realize that I have some but then find ways to fit WAY too many things into that time.

Well, the Spanish Catalog must go out soon so I must get back to working on that. I trust that everyone is having a blessed Christmas season and enjoying the family time.

Worthless Idols

2005-11-29T09:09:00.000-08:00

Jonah 2:8 states "Those who cling to worthless idols forfeit the grace that could be theirs". My pastor gave this message on Sunday while speaking about "Idols of the Heart" and it convicted me to investigate what those idols in my life might be. I realized all of the worthless idols I've built up over my life time that, as Jonah put it, are causing me to "forfeit the grace that could be mine". I pray that this verse is the life changing verse in my life that I need it to be -- and I ask that you pray with me as I tear down those idols and give glory to God.

From Philadelphia

2005-11-16T19:17:00.000-08:00

I'm sitting in a hotel room in King of Prussia, PA -- in town for a Theological Society. Ok, I'm actually in town for work -- we have a booth of academic products for these theological guys. I went to college in this area and I was blessed to see some of my old professors.

I'm going to be traveling a lot more for work - something that I'm actually looking forward to. I had so much fun interacting with the people today so I'm looking forward to doing that more.

Unfortunately I can't report that a Republican is governor in NJ! At least in my little town of Hawthorne as smart enough to elect Patrick Botbyl.

Well, I must go to bed - another great day tomorrow!!

Introduction

2005-10-25T10:50:00.000-07:00

I found that writing about political things raised my blood pressure, so now I've decided to have this as a place to be about me. :) Of course if I still want to rant about something political I still can.

Several of my posting will include things about my beautiful nieces and handsome nephew (not pictured), so I figured I'd introduce them to you -- Myia the red head loves her little cousin Kaitlyn.

I'm now a marketing manager for spanish products at The American Bible Society so that keeps me pretty busy at this point.

Well, that's all for now -- I'll keep you updated on life.

Oprah - The Store Was Closed

2005-06-24T07:02:00.000-07:00

Who out there who has worked retail hasn't been faced with someone who shows up 15 minutes after closing and thinks they should be let in. I don't care if you're worth $225, the workers just want to go home and get back to their own lives. Next time she should try shopping when stores are open, and that's all I'll say about it.

Move to China?

2005-06-24T06:47:00.000-07:00

Polls stated that people think more favorably of Red China than they do of the United States. If given the choice, they would prefer to live in the US, but they like China better. Ron Kuby of WABC Radio in NYC stated several reasons why people might not view the US favorably, including several military actions taken around the world, and so China has obviously done more to make the world a better place than the US. Too bad he didn't mention the atrocities that the Chinese government imposes upon its own people, the lack of freedom of religion (no matter when their government may say), and egrigious caste system that still prevails within its borders. One caller stated how wonderful and kind the people of China are ... a statement that I'm not refuting, but you can't say China is nice because the people are so kind and wonderful and state that you don't like the US because of its policies.

On another note, you can't separate the freedoms that we are afforded in this country from our role in the rest of the world. We don't have our freedoms because we asked for them nicely - we have them because people believed in them strongly enough to fight, and die, for them. Look at the rest of the world, the freedoms that this country enjoys are not the norm and there are people whose entire goal is to take them away from us. Sitting around and closing ourselves off from the rest of the world is not the answer. People risk their lives to come to this country because there's hope here . . . that hope is because the people of this country know that our freedoms mean something and are worth fighting for. May instead of bashing our policies, the people of other countries should muster up some courage and make those freedoms a reality around the world. It won't be easy and it might cost you something -- but it's obviously worth it.

Fake Apologies

2005-06-22T07:00:00.000-07:00

"Some may believe that my remarks crossed the line to them I extend my heartfelt apology." This was part of the 'apology' made by Dick Durbin on the Senate Floor yesterday. An 'apology' in reference to his comparison of treatment of detainees at the U.S. military base at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, to Nazis, Soviet gulags and Cambodia's Pol Pot.

Why has no one picked up on the fact that he didn't really apologize for his statement, neither does he make concessions that he may have been wrong. He only apologizes that someone may have been offended by his statements. He's sorry that anything he said may have caused offense to anyone who lived through the holocaust or to those in the military, he didn't mean to cast a negative light on the men and women in the military. A carefully crafted statement by Senator Durbin's PR office that pretty much says nothing. He takes no responsibility for his words, has no basis for his words, and refuses to take them back -- he's just sorry that someone may have taken offense at them. So the problem lies with me being offended at his words, and not with him for actually having said something with no basis in reality and made simply for inflammatory purposes.

He clarified his statements (before the apology), mentioning that his intent was to be critical of this administration and its policies, not of the men and women in the military. Can we for a moment remember that the prisoners being held are terrorists, they wish us harm. To make the comparison between making a prisoner listen to rap music while being locked to the floor to the atrocities that occurred in Nazi prison camps shows a lack of understanding for what's really going on, or is it a lack of desire to truly understand so that inflammatory comments can be made. Ask Senator McCain if the policies of this administration compare to what he was put through as a POW.

The rights of the prisoners are not being abused at Gitmo.... because they are not afforded the rights of Americans. They are terrorists who have been detained during a time of war and should be treated as such. What do we wish to do? Set up with a job in the US, pretend they didn't try to kill us? The information that is being gathered by such methods ... methods that have been used for years -- not created by this administration -- is the information that is being used to prevent further attacks. This information may have already been used to keep us safe, we may never know the plans that have been thwarted by our brave soldiers, governmental officials using that exact information.

I think that Senator Durbin needs to make an actual apology, not apologize for the fact that I feel he made an unfounded statement.

Deep Throat - hero or coward?

2005-06-09T10:23:00.000-07:00

How is it that someone who could betray his administration and his job, and lie to not only his loved ones, but the country is considered a hero. If he had been a hero then he would have had the courage to stand up to the adminsitration publically and made a difference then, not sat back while others made sacrifices that he wasn't willing to make. If he was a hero, then he would have had the courage to state that he was the informant and pay the consequences. It might even be argued that after all these years, if he truly was a hero then his deciding factor for finally telling the truth wouldn't have been profit. According to the Vanity Fair article, money was the motivation that his children used to have him tell his story.

I'm certainly not claiming that this man doesn't have a rightful place in history or even the right to tell his story and gain closure before he dies. I just think that we have glorified "Deep Throat" over the years and now will glorify Mark Felt, forgetting the facts and focusing on the story that has been glamorized for us.

We have true heroes, men and women who stand up for what is right and what they believe in every day. Men and women who make choices each day that may carry consequences or create difficult circumstances, and they don't shy away from them. These are the heroes that we should look to -- not ones who subvert the process and then get a large paycheck in the end.

Unconstitutional -- shouldn't that be based on the Constitution

2005-03-02T07:15:00.000-08:00

Yesterday’s decision by the Supreme Court states that it is unconstitutional to impose the death penalty on minors. The decision was split 5-4 and those in the majority wrote that international opinion weighed heavily on their decision …. Since when is international opinion deemed a deciding factor in what it or is not constitutional? Shouldn't the constitution have something to do with it?

The Power of Hillary

2005-02-28T06:58:00.000-08:00

"A recent Gallup poll indicates that Democratic Senator Hillary Rodham Clint's strength among women reaches into Republican and Independent circles" (1010 WINS)

Hillary Clinton has begun taking her views toward a more centrists position so as to appeal to both sides. Unless we're very clear about her power hungry motivations, she may surprise us all by sweeping the presidency right out from under us in 2008.

For the article I'm referring to, please see:
http://1010wins.com/topstories/local_story_056115249.html

Welcome

2005-02-23T09:47:00.000-08:00

I'd like people to feel free to post things on this blog... providing deeper insight into something that you've heard/read/seen. Many times I want to make comments on things I hear and need a place to express it.