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We Need to Move It Move It

Watch one of my favorite clips from  great movie and this fun song. 

www.youtube.com/watch?v=VzSdPxlGGZc


There are so many ways to move these days.  On days that I need a little encouragement to get moving I might play the song from the above clip.  We of course can move by car, truck, bus, train, plane, etc.  Thankfully in large airports there are moving sidewalks.

When I was a kid and would go into a large department store in a mall, there quite often was a second floor with an escalator to get there. 

I figured this was a really classy store to have something so great as an escalator.

A fun way to move it might be to have a bicycle or segue.

 

I have a 1969 vintage bicycle that I love but have not had the pleasure of the segue.

Or how about a zipline?

This is on my bucket list and today found that there are several here in Washington State so maybe that will get checked off some day.  

The scariest way of moving for me probably was riding in this:

Crawling into one of these "cars" is how you reach the top of the Arch in St. Louis MO.  I am somewhat claustrophobic and pair that up with the tilt, screech, straighten, and repeat that pattern all the way up to the top.  I felt relieved to step out and see for miles.  Unfortunately had to re-enter to return to the bottom. 

Yesterday we had the privilege of listening to Reggie McNeal in our worship service.  He gave us 4 things that we need to remember as Christians while we are on this journey in our faith.  It was great to be reminded and hear his sense of humor.  The one that struck me the most was to Keep Walking with God.  There is no finish line until our life here on earth is over.  Therefore we need to keep moving.  Perfection is not expected of us but we should keep the direction the same.  We must remember where our focus needs to stay.

Sometimes we may be flying down a zipline, strolling on a segue or screeching roughly to the top.   But our destiny does not change.  Our purpose does not change, but our mode of transportation, our means of moving may.  It may be something entirely new to us and that's o.k. 

Nearly 10 months ago we literally moved across the country to an area we had never been to, had no job and no home.  We moved because we felt God wanted us to.  How He wants us to continue moving in our journey of faith here in Washington State is something we will continue to trust in Him for. 

⁶ And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. ⁷ Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness.  Colossians 2:6-7 NLT

I really thought my roots were in Iowa soil for life.  God showed me and encouraged me otherwise.  Where ever it might be, how ever it might be - remember to "move it move it move it."  :)

Being Educated on my Trip to Phoenix

Last weekend I traveled to Phoenix to honor a special man who has passed away.  That would be my Uncle Verne (Vern, Bleek, Bleeker).  A man with many names, but one reputation - that of being very special to all who knew him.  I expected emotions, highs and lows - but not the education I would receive.

It all began when we arrived at the Pasco Airport and observed the sign directing you to Long Term Parking - first 10 minutes free.  Whaaaat???  What is their definition of long term?

I did develop some questions that I don't have the answers for, therefore I guess I have yet to learn in these areas.  First why do they have people board that sit in aisle seats before the people that have window seats?  And why do you fly into a humongous airport, need to switch planes, and to go to the farthest terminal to board a plane with the same airline?

I arrived in Phoenix a little later than planned following a rough flight, took the shuttle to the rental car facility to pick up my car.  Well, there I learned that even though you prebook your car, there are still many decisions to be made.  I also learned to never book compact again.  I did not know that the definition of compact is Tiny Toy Transportation.  I swear the wheels looked like they were from a toy wagon. 

Running late I traveled to my hotel and checked in.  When I approached the desk, no one was present but there was a sign on the counter that they were away helping someone.  If you needed help right away use the house phone and dial _ _ _ _    Okay, I was running late so I thought I would call.  Hmmm - there was no house phone.  And I also learned that what helping someone else meant was that he was in the bathroom next door. 

I freshened up, changed from my traveling clothes and proceeded to my toy car.  I got out my phone and punched in the address of where I was going to dinner to meet up with family.  I sent them a text to let them know I was on my way.  The lesson I learned here was that the traffic and roadways in Phoenix are multiplied to what I am used to in the Tri Cities.  And for left turns - proceed past, go around a block and come back to make sure you have it.

I proceeded to make my way to the left to the two left turn lanes ( I thought)  I suddenly found myself colliding with another vehicle.  I got out, made sure everyone was o.k., called 911 and moved my vehicle out of the way of traffic.  I kept apologizing, hugged the other driver and then cried.  That's just the way my body works.  I met two Chandler AZ police officers that were very kind and compassionate.  I learned the steps to go through when you have an accident and with a rental car.

I did not make the dinner, it was late and didn't have the emotional stamina to walk in there.  I went through a drive through for a sandwich and proceeded back to the hotel.  A little while later, I get a phone call from the lobby that there is a man there claiming to be my cousin.  Turns out it was my cousin and her husband coming to check on me.  I learned of the love and compassion that my extended family has.  Was amazing and they got me laughing. 

There was great beauty in Arizona as it is Springtime in the desert and the cacti and plants were beautiful.  I saw the majestic saguaro cacti blooming.  I've always been fascinated by these plants and I learned that the blossoms open after sunset and close in the afternoon the following day.  Cool.

I also learned that sometimes it is better to leave things as they are.  Someone thought  it would be a good idea to try to conceal the cell towers in the city.  One I saw was supposed to look like a pine tree and another was to look like a palm tree.  NOT.  Looked worse than seeing the cell tower.

I also learned that hearses have multi purposes.  I passed one that was pulling a U Haul Trailer.  Hahahaha   OK, just hope it was not a body in there.

Of course the main thing was that while family dynamics may change, the value of having family is priceless and a blessing.  When I called my husband to inform him of the accident, he informed me that it was just that - an accident.  He also told me there would be a big hug waiting when I got back home, he wasn't mad, didn't blame me and continues to love me.  To have my cousin stop by the hotel that night was also priceless.  And thoughts of my Uncle came to mind.  He would have had a joke about the accident and then tell me he loved me followed by a hug.  I will always miss his unconditional love. 

⁸ But those who won’t care for their relatives, especially those in their own household, have denied the true faith. Such people are worse than unbelievers.   1 Tim 5:8 (NLT)

Being A Momma!

Yep, mother's day is just around the corner.  This is not an ad for purchasing anything or for those infamous card companies selling just the right message on their beautiful paper but a reflection of my mom, being a mom and the moms of the next generation.

Lately I have been thinking about my mom a lot.  She was not always the easiest to get along with as her daughter but I loved her and respected her bunches.  I also remember the way my dad respected her and loved her.  Neither parent was open with their feelings, emotions, or affirmations but in his actions my dad taught me in the little ways that he loved mom a lot and how to show it.

I remember that every Mother's Day was the one day that Mom was guaranteed not to cook.  I believe that all moms want this.  We would go to a local smorgasbord restaurant that day with the six of us sitting around a round table and filling our bellies till they were ready to burst.   I could load my plate with what I desired and I took advantage of it all.  Loved the fresh meat carved right in front of me and gently placed on my plate.  Mom usually had an orchid corsage to wear to church and dinner as well.

Another way that Dad taught us was at Christmas time he always purchased 3 gifts for mom.  Many times they were store bought dresses which was a treat as mom usually constructed her clothing herself.  As my sister and I would get older, we were given the honor of wrapping them and keeping the secret.

They worked side by side on the farm and weathered whatever came their way.  I wish I could have seen them before they had children - the days that on weekends they would go dancing with friends.  I did however have glimpses of this as people used to have anniversary celebrations that included dances.  Dad loved to dance and Mom was his permanent partner. 

When they finally retired from the farm and moved to a small town it wasn't long until they knew most people there.  They took daily walks together, worked around the house together and traveled together.  (And yes, at times maybe too much together if you ask  mom ;) )

I'm sure they didn't see the end turning out the way it did with Dad developing Alzheimer's and spending the last 6 years of his life in a care facility.  But God really does use all things to glorify Him.  They would sit and hold hands and many times Dad would lay his head on mom's shoulder.  It was as if a wall had crumbled and he was free to express His feelings.

I'm not glossing over the negative, the frustrations or the times that I wished I would have.....
But with Mom on my mind a lot lately, I do have regrets for the times I got so frustrated with her and avoided her or said some things I am not proud of.  I know that the way my mom was raised was not easy and definitely had an affect on how she lived out life.  With getting older myself I find that I think about this and realize I don't want my children to feel or act that way towards me. I fear being alone as I get older, I fear that others will see me useless as I age, I fear as I lose the ability to do things as I age.

Yes, I believe in God as my creator, Jesus as my Savior, and through Him all things are possible.  I believe He is in control.  But yes, I am also human, I have faults even as a Christian and those are my fears.  I am asking God to guide me and help me.

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.             
                                                                                                                                Philippians 4:4-7
 
And now back to Mother's Day.  It is an amazing gift to be a Mom.  Of this I cannot express how thankful I am.  I also have and have had some immeasurably awesome ladies in my life who did not have this gift but they were in many people's lives and used their mom skills daily.  

I am overjoyed to see the mom's that my two daughters have become and know they will continue to do an awesome job.  I have many nieces that are showing this example as well and celebrate that.

Yes, I am getting older and I ask God to bless each day and lead me each day as a mom and grandmom.  Asking Him to help me to see that I am here for a purpose and I am loved.  I am who I am through Him.

Now that I am old and gray,
    do not abandon me, O God.
Let me proclaim your power to this new generation,
    your mighty miracles to all who come after me.                Psalm 71:18

Love your mom, create memories and experiences of which these are the best gifts ever. 

  HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY

Weddings, marriage and all that jazz!

In Jesus day, weddings lasted usually from 5- 7 days.  Lots of food, music, merriment and ceremony.  This was your time of celebration, honeymoon, gifts, etc. all rolled into one location, one week, one gathering.  When that ended – move on to what would hopefully be a long and blessed marriage.

For Phil and me, we rehearsed on Friday evening, went to a supper with all involved in the wedding, opened gifts from them and enjoyed the following day as our wedding.  Following a reception in the church basement with the traditional ham sandwiches and cake, we then left in my new dress sewn by my mom as my “going away outfit” on a honeymoon which we drove to and returned home after 8 days with less than 50 cents in our pocket.  Then our families gathered once more for the opening of the rest of our gifts.  That was 36 years ago today that we said “I do”.

When our daughters were married.  Each had a rehearsal dinner but in different settings.  One was held in a restaurant and the other in our back yard with a Caribbean/Fiesta theme.  Both were married on a Saturday followed immediately with a reception at the church.   And both returned the following day for a brunch with families and close friends at which time they opened their gifts.  

I had the delight and blessing of 5 showers to help us prepare for our home.  The girls each had one.  Some people have huge engagement parties, theme based showers, which are sometimes a destination, bridal party parties, (did you get that?), groom get away, exotic gifts for the attendees.  Then there is the wedding, followed by a huge meal at a different location and many times a dance.  Some brides are even purchasing two gowns, one to be married in and one for the reception.  

I guess what I am trying to get at here is that it is the marriage that is the important thing.  The wedding is fun, but it’s how you center your marriage, how you focus, how you live each day that really matters.  At first I said often that I wished we would have…, I think we should have…., but now I just remember how I felt when I first saw my soon to be husband in his tux (and yes it was all white – 1980 ;) I remember how I couldn’t wait to start our married life together and to just be us.

 Our son will be getting married later this summer and this past January I was privileged to meet his fiancé.  Unfortunately the rest of our family here in Washington have not been able to do so but we have skyped.  While back in Iowa I felt that God gave me this message.  Now I knew I wasn’t going to be asked to give the message at the ceremony ;) so I thought I would share it with you now, on our anniversary and with our daughters celebrating theirs next month and with our son’s soon to be wedding.  Remember that this is with them in mind and with each of their interests as examples.

In a marriage sharing is the key to longevity and happiness and fulfillment.

Imagine that you are each holding on to one end of a rope.  If you try to play tug of war, there will be a winner and a loser.  And I’m not going to say who I think that might be ;)  But that is not what we want.  Now there will be certain times during your marriage when the center of the rope may be pulled closer to one or the other.  This can happen when one is ill, when one of you is struggling with something or you both are focused on completing a goal one of you have.  What you need to make sure of is you bring it back to the center again.  You do this through communication, through prayer, through listening, through supporting and helping each other.

(This is where you pretend you see this cool image of a rope with a great knot in the center secured around the cross, representing Christ :) )

For instance, in hunting – the rope probably is going to be pulled Amanda’s way.  In soccer, Timothy would probably have the stronger upper hand.  In playing Ticket to Ride, I hear it tends to go Amanda’s direction.  That’s o.k. as long as you are both still hanging on to it and the one on the stronger side gently pushes it back to the center again.

In your marriage you will share decisions, money, chores, laughter, struggles, and hopefully one day children.  You share in cleaning up dog messes and when one is sick.  You also share in promotions and successes.  There will be times when the rope may get tugged more to one side, but remember, bring it back to the  middle and but no matter what is happening, what is going on, how hard it may be - never let go.

Also the rope should never be intended for harm.  Assist each other so neither one gets rope burn.  There will be times when things seem to be rolling along smoothly and the rope may become slack.  If that happens, it can get tangled, caught up on something.  The key is to have the center tied to what needs to be the center of your marriage, and that is God.  When God has a hold of the rope, it won’t drag down, won’t get too far off center and helps you stay focused.

WHO am I, anyway?

Have you ever wondered who you really are?  Wondered what your purpose is, your journey to travel, and so on and so on?

Well all through time people, animals, plants, etc. have turned the wrong way on occasion and it hasn't turned out so well. Since moving into our house, we have a mourning dove that visits us daily.  Somewhere along its life there was a wrong turn.

The above is a picture of it sitting alone on the wire.  I observed it the other day trying to slide over closer to another mourning dove but was soon left alone.  Maybe the one that left has heard this guy try to "talk".  When ever it does it sounds like a cross between a peacock and a crow stuck in a box.  Yep, that's what he sounds like - poor guy.  I think he will be destined to be alone.

And then there is our willow tree that we had to cut a branch out of.  Instead of being parallel to or growing on in its own territory it tried to cross over to where it shouldn't have been.

You can see the damage it was starting to cause in the center of the picture on the branch it was trying to "cross over" on.  Well that surely didn't turn out so well, cause now it has been chopped into little pieces.  ;)

Have you ever been told something but it seemed way to good to be true?  So because we couldn't possible think that was right, we turn to our own thoughts and plans.  How did that turn out for you?

Or maybe you felt like it was so good you believed it couldn't possible be for you.  You don't deserve that, someone like you (someone like me).  We feel inferior, we have self-doubt, we aren't as smart, we aren't as pretty (handsome).  It is much easier at times to believe it must be the plan for someone else.  It is easier (at least it usually is for me) to focus on the blessings for others than for myself.

Look at this quote I found on the internet, oh so true:  

 

God has made each of us unique, special, and perfect for what His plan is, for each of us to do, how to live, our hope and our future.  What blows my mind is when I think of the whole world and the billions of people out there - I can feel like a speck of dust in a wind storm across the dessert.  And yet He knows ME, he knows every part of me, all about me, and what is best for me.  And it is the same for you.  He also knew we would screw up at times.  So He took care of that - His only Son gave up His life in a horrible way in front of many so that our sins, our screw ups, our doubts and wrong decisions could vanish and our future be secure with Him.  

All of us, like sheep, have strayed away. We have left God's paths to follow our own. Yet the LORD laid on him the sins of us all.     Isaiah 53:6  NLT

How cool is that?  Several years ago I turned over my life, my control to God.  I was always somewhat reluctant to give up that control.  But wow, when I did - life became so much better.  I didn't feel like a puppet, but rather my eyes were opened to the many things around me that God wants me to enjoy.  Yes, I still screw up, I still take wrong turns - but usually now I recognize it sooner so I can get back on track. 

Who am I?  I am a child of the King, saved by grace!

Anita Renfroe was right!

Anita Renfroe is an amazing Christian Comedian who I have been a fan of for several years.  If you are not familiar with her, watch this clip.  It will either make you a fan or jog your memory.

The Mom Song -

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hDMhpapZcoU&index=5&list=RDe3EUttbJpHg

One of her dvd’s is entitled It’s Probably Just My Thyroid.  Love, love, loved it.  Through comedy she traced all her problems back to her thyroid.  (Kind of like the father in My Big Fat Greek  Wedding could trace everything back to Greece.)  

Well, while back at the doctor again yesterday to continue to solve the High Blood Pressure problem, it was noticed, and I fully agreed, that my heart was racing.  Unfortunately I was beginning to think this was the new norm.  After reviewing my records again followed by an EKG to make sure I wasn’t showing signs of a heart attack, it was decided that I was taking too much thyroid medication – causing my  heart to race.  WooHoo – it’s probably just my thyroid!  Anita was right.

Well time will tell how things will progress from here.  I will  keep you updated.  But just to remind you that laughter is one of the greatest gifts God blessed us with, here is another great clip of Anita’s - 

All The WRINKLED Ladies!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=za1ya3oBBMg

Are there tears running down your legs yet?  (Women, you know what I mean)

Moving on.  There are a few more fun things I want to share with you.  Yesterday I gave myself permission to have a little fun and I found the Country Mercantile. 

 

I drove by some great blooming orchards and near several vineyards.  Great views, it is located on the edge of the city.  The easiest way to describe this place is a gourmet food store on steroids.  No kidding.  There are so many jar products of fruits, salsas, vinegars, oils, etc.  and seasonings along with fresh produce locally grown, their own bakery, candy shop, gelato of several flavors, and deli.  I had no problem walking around sampling many items, including green apple gelato.  It was amazing.  I turned down other samples as I wanted to savor the flavor, it was so great.  But then I did break down and decided to have lunch.  I was able to have my very first tamales.  Great experience but 3 were too many and I couldn’t finish my meal.  

One of the great benefits of being home in the afternoons is having the time to cook amazing food to share with my husband.  We have been enjoying many different Mexican dishes, most of these recipes have come from our daughter and her husband who is from Southern Mexico and also things like tilapia and stir fry – dishes introduced to us by our oldest daughter.  And then there are many recipes that I have collected from Pinterest as well.  I’m cooking with many more herbs, fresh garlic, onions, vinegars, etc.  The flavor is amazing and its fun to explore.  Of course the healthy benefit goes without saying.

But one more note about food.  Growing up on a farm, always having a garden and knowing many farmers I thought you would get a kick out of this that we found available at a store here.

 

That’s right – you too can grow your own corn.  They have started it for you and for $3.68 you will get a 3 inch pot with 3 little stalks of corn.  Wow – that just blew our minds.  (And Lee Seaman – here’s a great new way for you to profit ;))

Well, it’s great to stay in touch and of course share laughter – which is what I hope you did this time.  We will continue to Serve Him, no matter the distance between us.