Ouch. Just the title hurts, doesn't it?
The definition of hypocrite according to Encarta's Online Dictionary is:
"somebody who pretends to have admirable principles, beliefs, or feelings but behaves otherwise"
We're all hypocrites at one point or another. Did you read that? Did I step on your toes? We're all imperfect. We're all sinners.
So you may be wondering why I am writing about this topic. Well, there's been this little thorn in my flesh for a while. Someone who has a leadership role who portrays themself as a model Christian - slandered against us, lied about us, was jealous of us, and just plain ol' hurt our family. I really had to work on forgiving and forgetting. And I mean WORK. It took a long time. But every time something happens that brings up this person or the unfortunate situation - I have to forgive all over again. And it's not always easy.
Another incident took place recently that riled me up. Bringing up all the wounds, all the hurt, all the ANGER. And what did I call this person?
Hypocrite. As the words left my mouth, I felt a little conviction. But I was still too mad to listen. And I continued to think of this person as a hypocrite. And just to be honest and show you my own imperfection, I had other names as well - coward, chicken, mamby-pamby, evil. Yes, I called this person evil.
I didn't sleep well that night. (And I wondered why? LOL) The next morning, during my Bible Study, I had another one of my 2x4 moments. (Yes, that's when I feel like God has to get my attention - and it literally feels like I've been struck - I'm hard-headed, yes, I know.)
I was convicted because we're all sinners. Sin is sin to God. And as much as it hurt, I had to admit I've often been a hypocrite myself. Every time I sin, every time my behavior doesn't back up my beliefs. Ouch.
My husband and I have stated since this fiasco started that if the world equated Christianity with this one person's example - we really didn't want to be associated with Christians. I know that comes across harsh, doesn't it? But let me explain. We want to be associated with Christ. Christians are often all lumped into one big group - and if the only example the world is seeing is an "ugly" example, then we, as Christians have failed. And there are lots of ugly examples. The enemy loves to tear apart Christian ministries, marriages, homes - all in an attempt to win a battle. The question is this, are we willing to fight in the battle? Or are we unwilling to put ourselves out there? Wanting to stay on the sidelines and watch, stay out of harm's way, not risk anything we've worked so hard to build?
Christians have gotten too caught up in wanting to be "liked" more than others in their church, having more members in their church, having more offerings in their plates, having more programs, having more buildings. And I'm not saying that all of these things are bad. I'm saying that our focus has gotten lost. It's not on Christ anymore if it's on numbers, money, or which pastor is liked better than the other.
So, I'm sitting here thinking about these things because my children are very intelligent. They are almost 12 and 14 years old. They are with me ALL the time. They see everything I do, and hear everything I say. Am I being a good example of a Christian to them? Or am I being an example of a hypocrite? Are YOU willing to ask yourself the same questions?
What about going beyond your home? What about your co-workers? Your church family? Your writer's group?
I'm hoping that this post has made you think a little. I know I've been doing a lot of thinking on the subject. I'm working every day on my behavior matching up with my beliefs. Always asking how Christ would handle the situation.
And always remembering John 13:35 "By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." (NIV)
...and Romans 12:10 "Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves." (NIV)
...and I Peter 1:22 "Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for your brothers, love one another deeply, from the heart." (NIV)
...and Matthew 28:19-20 "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." (NASB)
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Sunday, January 11, 2009
What is Dad Doing?
Christmas morning was sunny and cold. A beautiful day.
We slept in, had a leisurely breakfast, shared in praise, and opened gifts. We had a lot of fun as we watched each other "ooh" and "aah" over the special presents selected out of love.
Jeremy walked around with a trash bag picking up the wrapping paper as the children studied new items. Pretty soon he disappeared into the garage and came out carrying a few poles. The kiddos looked up and watched him go out the back door. Josh and Kayla glanced at each other and shrugged their shoulders. Sometimes Dad did weird things, right?
He came back inside, heading for the garage. A second time, he traipsed through carrying straps, a net, and a few more poles.
"What is Dad doing?" Josh asked.
Kayla piped up, "Daddy, what are you up to?" (She's a smart kid. And yes, he's usually up to something.)
Jeremy didn't answer, and just smiled as he made another trip.
Kayla grabbed her brother's arm. "Let's go see what he's doing!"
And yet another trip for Jeremy through the house and into the garage, as the kids followed him and spied the box.
Kayla came racing into the house and jumped up and down. "It's a..." She screwed up her face as she tried to find the appropriate word, "It's a jumpy-thingy-majiggy!!!!"
My daughter obviously gets her grasp of English vocabulary from her writer-mother. Because seriously, who named that apparatus a trampoline?
This afternoon, my mother-heart felt warm and fuzzy as I watched my beautiful children jump on their new toy in the thirty-something degree temps. It's so amazing to see Kayla be able to play outside. As she flew into the air, I heard the musical voices of my children's laughter. What a precious sound.
Josh told me later that we needed to use Kayla's name for it. Why? Because according to him, "it's funner." (Yes, I teach my children English in homeschool. That word is totally the result of my friend. Thank you oh so very much, Heather.)
So, if you're headed in this direction, we'd love to have you check out our new, "Jumpy-thingy-majiggy" complete with hours of exercise and fun-- as long as it's under 55 degrees outside.
We slept in, had a leisurely breakfast, shared in praise, and opened gifts. We had a lot of fun as we watched each other "ooh" and "aah" over the special presents selected out of love.
Jeremy walked around with a trash bag picking up the wrapping paper as the children studied new items. Pretty soon he disappeared into the garage and came out carrying a few poles. The kiddos looked up and watched him go out the back door. Josh and Kayla glanced at each other and shrugged their shoulders. Sometimes Dad did weird things, right?
He came back inside, heading for the garage. A second time, he traipsed through carrying straps, a net, and a few more poles.
"What is Dad doing?" Josh asked.
Kayla piped up, "Daddy, what are you up to?" (She's a smart kid. And yes, he's usually up to something.)
Jeremy didn't answer, and just smiled as he made another trip.
Kayla grabbed her brother's arm. "Let's go see what he's doing!"
And yet another trip for Jeremy through the house and into the garage, as the kids followed him and spied the box.
Kayla came racing into the house and jumped up and down. "It's a..." She screwed up her face as she tried to find the appropriate word, "It's a jumpy-thingy-majiggy!!!!"
My daughter obviously gets her grasp of English vocabulary from her writer-mother. Because seriously, who named that apparatus a trampoline?
This afternoon, my mother-heart felt warm and fuzzy as I watched my beautiful children jump on their new toy in the thirty-something degree temps. It's so amazing to see Kayla be able to play outside. As she flew into the air, I heard the musical voices of my children's laughter. What a precious sound.
Josh told me later that we needed to use Kayla's name for it. Why? Because according to him, "it's funner." (Yes, I teach my children English in homeschool. That word is totally the result of my friend. Thank you oh so very much, Heather.)
So, if you're headed in this direction, we'd love to have you check out our new, "Jumpy-thingy-majiggy" complete with hours of exercise and fun-- as long as it's under 55 degrees outside.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Out With the Old... And In With the New Year
I can't believe it's 2009. I'm still in shock.
So many amazing things happened in 2008 - and many difficult things happened in 2008 - but I'm thankful to have gone through them. Life is all about learning and growing. If you aren't willing to go through the tough stuff as well as the good stuff, you never truly feel the exuberance of making it to the other side.
I've had a lot of emails lately asking for pictures of our home at Christmas. The kids and I start in mid-November decorating. It's always been a tradition. (And recently, we've had lots more help since I've been writing new books, and have so much contact from the TV appearances. I couldn't do it alone anymore)
Hundreds of people asked me what we do to keep our home a special place. When we found out about Kayla's disorder, a friend took me shopping. She bought some seasonal decorations, and the next holiday or season, she'd take me again. For years, we've added to the collection to make each day, month, season... special. A reason to celebrate. So, I decorate for all the different holidays and seasons because when you spend the majority of your time inside the house, it's nice to change it up.
Think of it like the changing of the seasons, weather-wise. Kayla has to stay in a very controlled environment - so she can't experience all the weather changes of each season. My solution? Change the season inside. And that's what we do.
The Christmas decorations are being packed away, and out will come the Valentine's.
Life is an adventure. No matter what you are going through, or how hard the times may seem.
Live it.
And live it abundantly.
So many amazing things happened in 2008 - and many difficult things happened in 2008 - but I'm thankful to have gone through them. Life is all about learning and growing. If you aren't willing to go through the tough stuff as well as the good stuff, you never truly feel the exuberance of making it to the other side.
I've had a lot of emails lately asking for pictures of our home at Christmas. The kids and I start in mid-November decorating. It's always been a tradition. (And recently, we've had lots more help since I've been writing new books, and have so much contact from the TV appearances. I couldn't do it alone anymore)
Hundreds of people asked me what we do to keep our home a special place. When we found out about Kayla's disorder, a friend took me shopping. She bought some seasonal decorations, and the next holiday or season, she'd take me again. For years, we've added to the collection to make each day, month, season... special. A reason to celebrate. So, I decorate for all the different holidays and seasons because when you spend the majority of your time inside the house, it's nice to change it up.
Think of it like the changing of the seasons, weather-wise. Kayla has to stay in a very controlled environment - so she can't experience all the weather changes of each season. My solution? Change the season inside. And that's what we do.
The Christmas decorations are being packed away, and out will come the Valentine's.
Life is an adventure. No matter what you are going through, or how hard the times may seem.
Live it.
And live it abundantly.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
My Grandmother's Example
My Grandmother would be 100 years old today. She was an extraordinary lady, and I learned so much from her. I find as I get older, that I am a lot like her, too. Sometimes, it's like a deja vu sensation will strike me, and I realize that I've said or done something exactly like my Grandmother.
If I close my eyes and listen hard enough, I can hear her voice, and the banging of pots and pans in the wee hours of the morning, as she fixed the family breakfast. Everything was made from scratch, and the table was always set beautifully with a tablecloth, her best dishes, and an array of delectable treats.
For Christmas, she always made pecan pie, chess pie, gingerbread men, and coconut cake for dessert. Her pumpkin bread and butterscotch "scotchies" as she called them were also some of my favorites. All the vegetables were grown in her garden and canned. She made the best blackberry jelly I've ever had, and she was a wonderful seamstress.
As I sit here, typing my little remembrance, I am covered with a quilt made by my Grandmother and Great-Grandmother. And I wonder about the things we leave behind. What do I want to pass on to my children and grandchildren?
I've been quilting for many years now, and I make all my own jams and jellies. I even scrapbook and make homemade bread. My Grandmother passed these things to me, and I want to pass them on to my own children, but more than just the tasks. I hope they have the same memories and fondness and appreciation for these things done with love. For homemade goodness that takes time and effort, and the fun of learning at the side of someone special.
I'd like to think that's how it is with our relationship with the Lord. We're learning as we're on this road called life. And the Master is there beside us. The trials and the triumphs all add to the tapestry as it is woven one day at a time.
But sometimes we don't appreciate the beautiful, handmade creation around us - and so we don't pass that down to our own children. We find ourselves surrounded by cynics, and cheaply made items that fall apart so we just go buy something else to entertain us.
That's when I imagine our Savior sitting beside us waiting and watching. Waiting for us to say we're not looking for the easy way out- we're ready to learn something of eternal value, even though the road may be rough and the training vigorous. Waiting to see if we will turn our hearts completely toward Him.
And as we walk beside Him and learn at His elbow, our lives are enriched and made whole. Filled with Joy.
This quilt over my lap has served several generations. It is warm even though the edges are beginning to show their age. It is still a beautiful creation, all done by hand.
It reminds me of a quote by Erma Bombeck - a quote that is hanging over my desk - a quote that is dear to my heart:
"When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say: 'I used everything You gave me.'"
My Grandmother did that - she used her talent, and passed on her love for things done "right" to me. It might be harder to do. It might take a lot of time, but well worth the wait.
If I close my eyes and listen hard enough, I can hear her voice, and the banging of pots and pans in the wee hours of the morning, as she fixed the family breakfast. Everything was made from scratch, and the table was always set beautifully with a tablecloth, her best dishes, and an array of delectable treats.
For Christmas, she always made pecan pie, chess pie, gingerbread men, and coconut cake for dessert. Her pumpkin bread and butterscotch "scotchies" as she called them were also some of my favorites. All the vegetables were grown in her garden and canned. She made the best blackberry jelly I've ever had, and she was a wonderful seamstress.
As I sit here, typing my little remembrance, I am covered with a quilt made by my Grandmother and Great-Grandmother. And I wonder about the things we leave behind. What do I want to pass on to my children and grandchildren?
I've been quilting for many years now, and I make all my own jams and jellies. I even scrapbook and make homemade bread. My Grandmother passed these things to me, and I want to pass them on to my own children, but more than just the tasks. I hope they have the same memories and fondness and appreciation for these things done with love. For homemade goodness that takes time and effort, and the fun of learning at the side of someone special.
I'd like to think that's how it is with our relationship with the Lord. We're learning as we're on this road called life. And the Master is there beside us. The trials and the triumphs all add to the tapestry as it is woven one day at a time.
But sometimes we don't appreciate the beautiful, handmade creation around us - and so we don't pass that down to our own children. We find ourselves surrounded by cynics, and cheaply made items that fall apart so we just go buy something else to entertain us.
That's when I imagine our Savior sitting beside us waiting and watching. Waiting for us to say we're not looking for the easy way out- we're ready to learn something of eternal value, even though the road may be rough and the training vigorous. Waiting to see if we will turn our hearts completely toward Him.
And as we walk beside Him and learn at His elbow, our lives are enriched and made whole. Filled with Joy.
This quilt over my lap has served several generations. It is warm even though the edges are beginning to show their age. It is still a beautiful creation, all done by hand.
It reminds me of a quote by Erma Bombeck - a quote that is hanging over my desk - a quote that is dear to my heart:
"When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say: 'I used everything You gave me.'"
My Grandmother did that - she used her talent, and passed on her love for things done "right" to me. It might be harder to do. It might take a lot of time, but well worth the wait.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Joy In The New Year
2009. Wow. It's here. (I don't know about you, but I'm feeling a little old.)
How many of you are dreading the coming year? How many of you are worried about this new year? How many of you can truly say that you have joy?
I know, the economy is bad, people are losing their jobs and their homes, the outlook seems bleak on many fronts. So, how can I possibly ask you about joy, right?
Some of you may not know our story - and I won't take the time to explain it all here - but I understand tough times. I know what it's like to consider bankruptcy and have stared foreclosure in the face. I've paid $1500 a week for prescriptions and then wondered how to pay for food and the electric bill. And I've felt the emotions of owing medical bills that seem so monstrous you know you can never earn enough to pay them back. But in the same breath, I can tell you that I've also understood the joy of telling my children that we could live in an air-conditioned cardboard box - but as long as we were together, that's all that mattered. I've felt the intense relief of seeing my child for the first time after brain surgery. And I am well acquainted with the overwhelming feeling of gratefulness when gift-cards were given for food or clothing, or the hospital called and a bill for $75,000 disappeared, or a bus pulled up and with one incredible greeting through a megaphone, a fresh start was given.
But this is all part of the journey. The worst of times. And the best of times. Everyone goes through rough spots. (Some last a minute, some an hour, some a day, some even years or decades.) But it's not about comparing. It's not about saying, "Oh, poor me. My life is so hard." I believe, it's about how we handle those times. How do we react? What kind of example are we being?
Are we willing to reach out to our fellow man? Or are we wanting everything to be handed to us on the proverbial silver platter?
If you've heard me speak, or seen any of my writing, you know that James 1:2-4 are my life verses. The lessons learned have not been easy, and the road has been long, but I wouldn't trade that for an easy way out. No. Those verses tell us to consider it pure joy. The "it" is described as "various trials" of "many" and all kinds. And to paraphrase in my own words: LIFE in general. Are you considering life as joy? Can you face tomorrow - no matter what may come - with joy? And are you willing to say, "Not my will, but Yours, Lord"?
As we enter this new year, I'd like to challenge us all to think about those verses. And rather than thinking about how rough we have it, or how hard the coming year may be, let's focus on thankfulness instead, and reach out to others.
My fellow writer (she's amazing) and prayer warrior friend, Brandilyn Collins, brought a young girl's blog to our attention. Her name is Katy, and she is 16 years old. She and her mom are now homeless. Brandilyn put the word out, and through the first trickle of social networking, it became a stream, then a river, and is now rushing through cyberspace. The local news has picked up the story, and people are reaching out to help. Please go to Brandilyn's website: Brandilyn Collins and click on the link to her blog on the right for more of the story.
My point is that we should be doing more of this. Every day. No 'woe is me' attitude. In its place? Giving, sharing, reaching, loving, laughing... Living life abundantly. With joy.
Life is hard. But God... He is SO good.
How many of you are dreading the coming year? How many of you are worried about this new year? How many of you can truly say that you have joy?
I know, the economy is bad, people are losing their jobs and their homes, the outlook seems bleak on many fronts. So, how can I possibly ask you about joy, right?
Some of you may not know our story - and I won't take the time to explain it all here - but I understand tough times. I know what it's like to consider bankruptcy and have stared foreclosure in the face. I've paid $1500 a week for prescriptions and then wondered how to pay for food and the electric bill. And I've felt the emotions of owing medical bills that seem so monstrous you know you can never earn enough to pay them back. But in the same breath, I can tell you that I've also understood the joy of telling my children that we could live in an air-conditioned cardboard box - but as long as we were together, that's all that mattered. I've felt the intense relief of seeing my child for the first time after brain surgery. And I am well acquainted with the overwhelming feeling of gratefulness when gift-cards were given for food or clothing, or the hospital called and a bill for $75,000 disappeared, or a bus pulled up and with one incredible greeting through a megaphone, a fresh start was given.
But this is all part of the journey. The worst of times. And the best of times. Everyone goes through rough spots. (Some last a minute, some an hour, some a day, some even years or decades.) But it's not about comparing. It's not about saying, "Oh, poor me. My life is so hard." I believe, it's about how we handle those times. How do we react? What kind of example are we being?
Are we willing to reach out to our fellow man? Or are we wanting everything to be handed to us on the proverbial silver platter?
If you've heard me speak, or seen any of my writing, you know that James 1:2-4 are my life verses. The lessons learned have not been easy, and the road has been long, but I wouldn't trade that for an easy way out. No. Those verses tell us to consider it pure joy. The "it" is described as "various trials" of "many" and all kinds. And to paraphrase in my own words: LIFE in general. Are you considering life as joy? Can you face tomorrow - no matter what may come - with joy? And are you willing to say, "Not my will, but Yours, Lord"?
As we enter this new year, I'd like to challenge us all to think about those verses. And rather than thinking about how rough we have it, or how hard the coming year may be, let's focus on thankfulness instead, and reach out to others.
My fellow writer (she's amazing) and prayer warrior friend, Brandilyn Collins, brought a young girl's blog to our attention. Her name is Katy, and she is 16 years old. She and her mom are now homeless. Brandilyn put the word out, and through the first trickle of social networking, it became a stream, then a river, and is now rushing through cyberspace. The local news has picked up the story, and people are reaching out to help. Please go to Brandilyn's website: Brandilyn Collins and click on the link to her blog on the right for more of the story.
My point is that we should be doing more of this. Every day. No 'woe is me' attitude. In its place? Giving, sharing, reaching, loving, laughing... Living life abundantly. With joy.
Life is hard. But God... He is SO good.
Happy New Year!
As we enter 2009 - I'd love you all to read my blog on my website: www.kimberleywoodhouse.com
All the news and updates are on the website and I'd love to have you hop on over.
God Bless You and Happy New Year!
Kim
All the news and updates are on the website and I'd love to have you hop on over.
God Bless You and Happy New Year!
Kim
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
TV, Computer, Email, Techie Overload - What's Life Really About?
In this day and age, life is nuts. There's not much slow-time, down-time, sittin'-in-the-rocking-chair-outside-the-general-store-chattin' time. Instead, we have TV-time, computer-time, playstation-time, Wii-time, ipod-time, cell-phone-time, facebook-time, shoutlife-time, twitter-time, blog-time.
I've been pondering this quandary for a while. Since we have appeared on TV shows, my email inboxes have overflowed. And I mean o-v-e-r-f-l-o-w-e-d. Social networking and marketing are very important to any author, but how on earth can you possibly keep up? I have 9300+ email in one inbox as I write this. It's overwhelming to say the least.
But my overweight email accounts are not why I'm writing this post. People spend so much time watching TV, or on the internet, or with techie toys. I watched a seven-year-old at swim team the other day - the child had an ipod, which he was listening to in one ear, and was holding a cell phone up to the other ear. I think back to when I was seven, we didn't have personal computers, or internet, or ipods, or cell phones. I don't even remember caring about whether my clothes matched or if my hair was brushed! And that was really NOT that long ago! But I digress...
My point is that we're too caught up in our "techno" world. I'm not saying it's not useful - it definitely has a place in our lives. But, we want to be entertained. We want to be hand-delivered an answer to life's questions by text, twitter, or IM. Is that what life is really all about? How much time do we waste playing games, surfing the net, watching TV, texting, IMing, the list could go on and on? Believe me, I've thought on this a lot as I've had to invest more time into my author relations. I don't watch TV at all, and I don't play video games - but, I do have to spend a good deal of time on email, networking, marketing, etc.
That brings me to a group on Facebook that has caught my attention. It's called, "The Campaign. One Gospel. One Person. Each Week." And it's something of eternal value. Not like a game of Scramble that takes three minutes and makes you use your brain a little. It's about life. And eternity. Are you sharing your testimony? Are you reaching out to others?
I'd like to challenge you to think about that. Think about all the time you spend watching your favorite TV show or sports. Or all the time on the internet that's just wasting time (my famous author friend, Donita K. Paul, and I have come up with a name for it - "Downloafing"). How much time are you spending on something really worthwhile? It's quite the topic to consider.
"The Campaign" is doing something that I love. They are using the social networking outlet to help challenge believers to share their faith. Instead of just another silly group that spends time counting the hairs on our heads (I'm being sarcastic) - it's doing something that IS of eternal value. A challenge to all of us to remember the big picture, to remind ourselves what life is truly all about.
I wrote a song many years ago now, that is entitled "You Are." It's about everything the Lord is to me. We were on the mission field at the time, and I was struggling - no internet, no phones, no mail - I thought I "needed" contact with the outside world. God gently got my attention that day and helped me to realize that I don't really NEED anything. Think about that for a minute. I don't need friends and family. I don't need a roof over my head. I don't need food. I don't need internet. I don't need a car. Why? Without some of those things for extended periods, I may die, yes. But what happens next? What matters?
The answer: My relationship with the Lord. If I die, where am I headed? That's truly our one and only need - a relationship with Jesus Christ.
When you can grasp that, and put it all into perspective - your outlook will completely change.
So, yes, I'm challenging you. Join The Campaign on Facebook. Get out there and be willing to share your faith - which should be the most important part of your life.
We should have more groups like this - that combine our techno world with true purpose. One day at a time.
I've been pondering this quandary for a while. Since we have appeared on TV shows, my email inboxes have overflowed. And I mean o-v-e-r-f-l-o-w-e-d. Social networking and marketing are very important to any author, but how on earth can you possibly keep up? I have 9300+ email in one inbox as I write this. It's overwhelming to say the least.
But my overweight email accounts are not why I'm writing this post. People spend so much time watching TV, or on the internet, or with techie toys. I watched a seven-year-old at swim team the other day - the child had an ipod, which he was listening to in one ear, and was holding a cell phone up to the other ear. I think back to when I was seven, we didn't have personal computers, or internet, or ipods, or cell phones. I don't even remember caring about whether my clothes matched or if my hair was brushed! And that was really NOT that long ago! But I digress...
My point is that we're too caught up in our "techno" world. I'm not saying it's not useful - it definitely has a place in our lives. But, we want to be entertained. We want to be hand-delivered an answer to life's questions by text, twitter, or IM. Is that what life is really all about? How much time do we waste playing games, surfing the net, watching TV, texting, IMing, the list could go on and on? Believe me, I've thought on this a lot as I've had to invest more time into my author relations. I don't watch TV at all, and I don't play video games - but, I do have to spend a good deal of time on email, networking, marketing, etc.
That brings me to a group on Facebook that has caught my attention. It's called, "The Campaign. One Gospel. One Person. Each Week." And it's something of eternal value. Not like a game of Scramble that takes three minutes and makes you use your brain a little. It's about life. And eternity. Are you sharing your testimony? Are you reaching out to others?
I'd like to challenge you to think about that. Think about all the time you spend watching your favorite TV show or sports. Or all the time on the internet that's just wasting time (my famous author friend, Donita K. Paul, and I have come up with a name for it - "Downloafing"). How much time are you spending on something really worthwhile? It's quite the topic to consider.
"The Campaign" is doing something that I love. They are using the social networking outlet to help challenge believers to share their faith. Instead of just another silly group that spends time counting the hairs on our heads (I'm being sarcastic) - it's doing something that IS of eternal value. A challenge to all of us to remember the big picture, to remind ourselves what life is truly all about.
I wrote a song many years ago now, that is entitled "You Are." It's about everything the Lord is to me. We were on the mission field at the time, and I was struggling - no internet, no phones, no mail - I thought I "needed" contact with the outside world. God gently got my attention that day and helped me to realize that I don't really NEED anything. Think about that for a minute. I don't need friends and family. I don't need a roof over my head. I don't need food. I don't need internet. I don't need a car. Why? Without some of those things for extended periods, I may die, yes. But what happens next? What matters?
The answer: My relationship with the Lord. If I die, where am I headed? That's truly our one and only need - a relationship with Jesus Christ.
When you can grasp that, and put it all into perspective - your outlook will completely change.
So, yes, I'm challenging you. Join The Campaign on Facebook. Get out there and be willing to share your faith - which should be the most important part of your life.
We should have more groups like this - that combine our techno world with true purpose. One day at a time.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Picking Up the Pieces
Last night, Kayla was working on a jewelry project. As she carried the boxes of beads back to her room, a small box on the top slid off and tumbled to the ground.
"Oh no!" She was very distraught. Beads bounced from one end of the living room to the other across our hardwood floors and down the stairs. Thousands upon thousands of tiny little seed beads, decorative beads, and glittery beads.
I placed my arm around her shoulders. "It's okay, honey. These things happen. All we have to do is pick up the pieces."
Kayla was really upset with herself, but realized that I wasn't mad at her, I wasn't scolding her, and it just needed to be cleaned up. The task seemed daunting, but Josh, Kayla, Holly, and myself all got on our hands and knees and began to find the scattered beads. We discovered interesting places the beads had flown, and creative ways to pick them up. Pretty soon, our bead-cleanup turned into a laugh-fest.
As we were working, I thought about how it was a beautiful illustration of our lives. Sometimes we are hasty in how we handle things, or make a wrong choice, or simply - accidents happen. And as our lives crash into millions of pieces on the hard ground, we wonder if we can ever put things back together again. How can we possibly go on? There's too many pieces to pick up by ourselves.
And yet - there's the Master - by our side, picking up piece by itty-bitty piece. Helping us to see that it's okay, we just have to clean up the mess and move on. Sometimes we cause our own messes, and sometimes they are caused by other people or outside circumstances. The pieces may take hours, days, months, or even years to pick up. There may be some cracks, chips, and dents. There may be some dirt, dust, and lint clinging to the pieces. But the mess can always be cleaned up.
So next time you drop your box of beads, or life seems to fall apart and shatter into a bazillion pieces - Take a deep breath. Pray about it. And start picking up the pieces. We have a wonderful Savior who is by our side, picking up pieces, wiping them clean, and gluing the cracked and broken ones back together. Don't give up. Keep going. Pick up the pieces.
And if you happen to spill thousands of beads onto the stairs? A pastry brush and paper plate work great.
"Oh no!" She was very distraught. Beads bounced from one end of the living room to the other across our hardwood floors and down the stairs. Thousands upon thousands of tiny little seed beads, decorative beads, and glittery beads.
I placed my arm around her shoulders. "It's okay, honey. These things happen. All we have to do is pick up the pieces."
Kayla was really upset with herself, but realized that I wasn't mad at her, I wasn't scolding her, and it just needed to be cleaned up. The task seemed daunting, but Josh, Kayla, Holly, and myself all got on our hands and knees and began to find the scattered beads. We discovered interesting places the beads had flown, and creative ways to pick them up. Pretty soon, our bead-cleanup turned into a laugh-fest.
As we were working, I thought about how it was a beautiful illustration of our lives. Sometimes we are hasty in how we handle things, or make a wrong choice, or simply - accidents happen. And as our lives crash into millions of pieces on the hard ground, we wonder if we can ever put things back together again. How can we possibly go on? There's too many pieces to pick up by ourselves.
And yet - there's the Master - by our side, picking up piece by itty-bitty piece. Helping us to see that it's okay, we just have to clean up the mess and move on. Sometimes we cause our own messes, and sometimes they are caused by other people or outside circumstances. The pieces may take hours, days, months, or even years to pick up. There may be some cracks, chips, and dents. There may be some dirt, dust, and lint clinging to the pieces. But the mess can always be cleaned up.
So next time you drop your box of beads, or life seems to fall apart and shatter into a bazillion pieces - Take a deep breath. Pray about it. And start picking up the pieces. We have a wonderful Savior who is by our side, picking up pieces, wiping them clean, and gluing the cracked and broken ones back together. Don't give up. Keep going. Pick up the pieces.
And if you happen to spill thousands of beads onto the stairs? A pastry brush and paper plate work great.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Heads' Up... 7-UP!
No, I'm not talking about the game. I'm speaking about an incident in a Safeway parking lot, late... just the other night.
You see, after swim team, we headed to the grocery store to pick up a few more items for our Christmas Party. The cart was loaded up, and we headed out into the brisk, 18-degree, Colorado temperatures.
Upon exiting the store, the cases of 7-Up, which were on the bottom of the cart - began to slide. We were a mere ten feet from my truck when the first case went crashing into the pavement. I wasn't concerned until Kayla noticed a hissing sound coming from the case. I scurried around trying to get the case opened and pulled the spewing can from the pack. Problem solved, right?
Um... no.
While Heather took the offending can to the trash can, I attempted to check the rest of the case. But when your hands are frozen, and there's sticky 7-Up "juice" all over everything - it becomes a little tricky.
I dropped another can.
And it couldn't just fall and spill out onto the ground. No that would be too easy. This is ME we're talking about.
It fell, spewed, and rolled. Like the oscillating sprinklers we used to run through as kids. Back and forth the spray of 7-Up flew into the air. I don't know if it's our high elevation or what, but that sticky-sweet soda sprayed higher than any sprinkler I've ever had the privilege of playing in. I ducked. Behind the grocery cart - yes, I know - smart move on my part.
The can finally lost it's pressure and we were able to retrieve it and throw it away - but I was covered in droplets of 7-Up. My long wool coat was covered, my hair was covered, my eyebrows and eyelashes were covered.
And there I was - standing outside in the chilly weather - wet and sticky from my 7-Up sprinkler. I couldn't get in my vehicle that way, and I definitely didn't want the stuff all over my beautiful coat - so I asked Kayla to grab baby-wipes from the truck.
So as my fingers froze - Heather and I attempted to de-stickify my coat and purse. Laughing the whole time about how quickly baby wipes froze, the numbness of the cold temperatures, and my life... it's one adventure after another.
Jeremy rolled his eyes at me and laughed when I told him the story at home - and of course he shared with my friends his favorite saying, "If something's going to happen, it's going to happen to Kim."
You see, after swim team, we headed to the grocery store to pick up a few more items for our Christmas Party. The cart was loaded up, and we headed out into the brisk, 18-degree, Colorado temperatures.
Upon exiting the store, the cases of 7-Up, which were on the bottom of the cart - began to slide. We were a mere ten feet from my truck when the first case went crashing into the pavement. I wasn't concerned until Kayla noticed a hissing sound coming from the case. I scurried around trying to get the case opened and pulled the spewing can from the pack. Problem solved, right?
Um... no.
While Heather took the offending can to the trash can, I attempted to check the rest of the case. But when your hands are frozen, and there's sticky 7-Up "juice" all over everything - it becomes a little tricky.
I dropped another can.
And it couldn't just fall and spill out onto the ground. No that would be too easy. This is ME we're talking about.
It fell, spewed, and rolled. Like the oscillating sprinklers we used to run through as kids. Back and forth the spray of 7-Up flew into the air. I don't know if it's our high elevation or what, but that sticky-sweet soda sprayed higher than any sprinkler I've ever had the privilege of playing in. I ducked. Behind the grocery cart - yes, I know - smart move on my part.
The can finally lost it's pressure and we were able to retrieve it and throw it away - but I was covered in droplets of 7-Up. My long wool coat was covered, my hair was covered, my eyebrows and eyelashes were covered.
And there I was - standing outside in the chilly weather - wet and sticky from my 7-Up sprinkler. I couldn't get in my vehicle that way, and I definitely didn't want the stuff all over my beautiful coat - so I asked Kayla to grab baby-wipes from the truck.
So as my fingers froze - Heather and I attempted to de-stickify my coat and purse. Laughing the whole time about how quickly baby wipes froze, the numbness of the cold temperatures, and my life... it's one adventure after another.
Jeremy rolled his eyes at me and laughed when I told him the story at home - and of course he shared with my friends his favorite saying, "If something's going to happen, it's going to happen to Kim."
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Newsy New Newsletter
Once again my lovely readers, I need your help!
It has been a wild and crazy ride, but it’s been fun so far, hasn’t it? I receive so many emails from you guys telling me that I’ve either stepped on your toes, or made you laugh until you almost wet your pants. And to me – that’s a good thing. (I'm hoping that's positive for you as well... ?)
Well, because of all the TV stuff, contact, and different things going on, I’ve started a new monthly newsletter. I no longer have the older one, so please be sure to sign up for the new one on any of the pages here on my website: www.kimberleywoodhouse.com
I need help getting the word out. We’ve heard from thousands upon thousands of people who saw one of the shows we were on – all asking to hear more of the story. Well, even though tens of millions saw the shows, I don’t have all their personal contact information to let them know that the book will be out. This is where you come in - if all of you help with word of mouth it would be wonderful.
The newsletter will be once a month and include updates about our family, books releasing, speaking engagements, and of course—whatever adventurous, funny episode, I’m on at the time, (which as you know sometimes includes a 2x4 to my head so that I can learn my lesson.)
Don’t forget about the reading contest going on until June of 2009 (I've got over 2000 participants) and the other opportunities to comment and share your stories.
Thank you all so much for your loyalty and help – I can’t wait to see what this next year brings!
It has been a wild and crazy ride, but it’s been fun so far, hasn’t it? I receive so many emails from you guys telling me that I’ve either stepped on your toes, or made you laugh until you almost wet your pants. And to me – that’s a good thing. (I'm hoping that's positive for you as well... ?)
Well, because of all the TV stuff, contact, and different things going on, I’ve started a new monthly newsletter. I no longer have the older one, so please be sure to sign up for the new one on any of the pages here on my website: www.kimberleywoodhouse.com
I need help getting the word out. We’ve heard from thousands upon thousands of people who saw one of the shows we were on – all asking to hear more of the story. Well, even though tens of millions saw the shows, I don’t have all their personal contact information to let them know that the book will be out. This is where you come in - if all of you help with word of mouth it would be wonderful.
The newsletter will be once a month and include updates about our family, books releasing, speaking engagements, and of course—whatever adventurous, funny episode, I’m on at the time, (which as you know sometimes includes a 2x4 to my head so that I can learn my lesson.)
Don’t forget about the reading contest going on until June of 2009 (I've got over 2000 participants) and the other opportunities to comment and share your stories.
Thank you all so much for your loyalty and help – I can’t wait to see what this next year brings!
Monday, December 1, 2008
I Love Christmas
It's that time of year again. My house is decorated, the lights are up on the outside, and Christmas music is playing. There's a Christmas tree and Nativity scene in every room, the kids are working on a Christmas play, and we've already watched White Christmas, It's A Wonderful Life, Christmas In Connecticut, and Holiday Inn.
There's snow on the ground, the days are getting darker much earlier, and the smell of wood-burning fireplaces is in the air.
I love it.
But why do we get all excited about this season? Is it the presents? The food and fun with family and friends? Playing in the snow? Parties? Time off of school and work?
What about those people who don't like Christmas? There are many who have a hard time during this holiday season. Finances, loss of a loved one, or just plain ole bad memories. Depression runs rampant this time of year and many find it hard to go on.
Do you remember Charlie Brown's Christmas cartoon? Charlie is looking for the true meaning of Christmas. Everyone seems focused on the materialistic side of things, and Charlie Brown picks out a devastatingly ugly and skimpy tree. But Linus, ever the tried and true friend, comes out and quotes Luke chapter two and tells Charlie Brown that's what it's all about. While everyone still doesn't quite grasp it, Charlie Brown hears the words resound in his head.
"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord."
I love Christmas. But why do I love it? I love it because it's the celebration of the greatest gift ever given. Jesus came as a baby and lived a sinless life. He lived and He worked and He gave of Himself. He taught and He healed and He loved the unlovable. He came to sacrifice Himself for us so that we might have life - eternal life. The reason for the season.
So, it doesn't matter if you have zero Christmas trees or twelve Christmas trees. It doesn't matter if you have gifts, or lights, or parties to go to. What matters is what is in your heart. Have you accepted His gift?
Rejoice with me!
"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord."
There's snow on the ground, the days are getting darker much earlier, and the smell of wood-burning fireplaces is in the air.
I love it.
But why do we get all excited about this season? Is it the presents? The food and fun with family and friends? Playing in the snow? Parties? Time off of school and work?
What about those people who don't like Christmas? There are many who have a hard time during this holiday season. Finances, loss of a loved one, or just plain ole bad memories. Depression runs rampant this time of year and many find it hard to go on.
Do you remember Charlie Brown's Christmas cartoon? Charlie is looking for the true meaning of Christmas. Everyone seems focused on the materialistic side of things, and Charlie Brown picks out a devastatingly ugly and skimpy tree. But Linus, ever the tried and true friend, comes out and quotes Luke chapter two and tells Charlie Brown that's what it's all about. While everyone still doesn't quite grasp it, Charlie Brown hears the words resound in his head.
"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord."
I love Christmas. But why do I love it? I love it because it's the celebration of the greatest gift ever given. Jesus came as a baby and lived a sinless life. He lived and He worked and He gave of Himself. He taught and He healed and He loved the unlovable. He came to sacrifice Himself for us so that we might have life - eternal life. The reason for the season.
So, it doesn't matter if you have zero Christmas trees or twelve Christmas trees. It doesn't matter if you have gifts, or lights, or parties to go to. What matters is what is in your heart. Have you accepted His gift?
Rejoice with me!
"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord."
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Storytellers
You all know I'm a writer. There's always some kind of story brewing up in this head of mine. But for those non-writers, we're a confusing bunch.
For instance, my incredible friend, Janelle, who does my nails. She's always asking me, "Where do you come up with all that?" And you know what? I think I would truly scare her if she knew all the different ideas and storylines that were pinging around in my brain at any given time.
I had a lady stop me after a "brainstorm" session one day at the pool. After hearing, "oooh, and then she could do this - and the bad guy could do that - and they'd find her scarf..." she told me that it must be fun to have all the creative energy flowing all the time. Yep, we're an odd bunch.
Anyway, I just finished my non-fiction book, No Sweat, which will be coming out Sept. 2009 - and have turned my attention back to my fiction books. I had the idea to use my invention of turkey diving in a story - and so, I'm coming to you all with a challenge.
Here it is: I'd like to hear your outrageous "turkey diving" stories. The funnier, the better. And - I might just use it in my book :)
There will be a prize for the winner - so if you haven't gone turkey diving yet, it's not too late. And if you have no idea what I'm talking about - read the previous post about turkey diving.
Happy Thanksgiving week to you all!
For instance, my incredible friend, Janelle, who does my nails. She's always asking me, "Where do you come up with all that?" And you know what? I think I would truly scare her if she knew all the different ideas and storylines that were pinging around in my brain at any given time.
I had a lady stop me after a "brainstorm" session one day at the pool. After hearing, "oooh, and then she could do this - and the bad guy could do that - and they'd find her scarf..." she told me that it must be fun to have all the creative energy flowing all the time. Yep, we're an odd bunch.
Anyway, I just finished my non-fiction book, No Sweat, which will be coming out Sept. 2009 - and have turned my attention back to my fiction books. I had the idea to use my invention of turkey diving in a story - and so, I'm coming to you all with a challenge.
Here it is: I'd like to hear your outrageous "turkey diving" stories. The funnier, the better. And - I might just use it in my book :)
There will be a prize for the winner - so if you haven't gone turkey diving yet, it's not too late. And if you have no idea what I'm talking about - read the previous post about turkey diving.
Happy Thanksgiving week to you all!
Monday, November 10, 2008
At Last - Turkey Diving... Again
The kids and I went to Safeway the other day, and lo and behold-- turkeys were on sale!
Now, considering I've had a couple hundred emails from people about my inventive turkey purchasing, I decided to re-post the original story.
ORIGINAL - TURKEY DIVING
After much interest in a post where I mentioned turkey diving -(and don't forget the prodding and threats from my wonderful readership) - This story's for you!
Our Safeway does this great thing before Thanksgiving where turkeys go on sale (this really shouldn't come as a surprise to anyone). Anyway, it will have the really nice, brand-name turkeys for a deal - like up to a 14 pounder for a few bucks, and then over a 14 pounder for a couple bucks more. The key - is getting the most turkey poundage for your buck, right? Everyone with me so far?
Okay. So - the only way to really do this is to DIG through all of the turkeys in the freezer bins. Most people don't go to the trouble of intense searching, they see the sign and think, "ooh turkeys are on sale" - and grab one. How do I know this? Many years of observation, that's how!
Let me tell you, those people disappoint me. Where's the fun in that?
This is what I do:
Go to the store with several friends- (it's even more fun if they have a child or two with them... you'll understand in a minute)- Head to those turkey freezers and everyone stake out territory. Then, you dig. And there are rules: You MUST look at every turkey in the freezer. Yes, I said EVERY turkey. And if you are too short to reach all the way in, you yell, "I'm goin' in!" One of your faithful friends will help you by holding your legs so that you can "dive" in. Another option is to throw a small child in to help you look (not literally - you don't really think I would do that, now do you?) Actually, you can hold the child's legs while they reach for that last one in the corner that no-one else can get to, but you just KNOW that's it's the biggest one in the freezer!
The other important thing to remember - is to sing! Yes, you heard me. Sing.
My personal favorite is "I love you a bushel and a peck, a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck..." This is great fun while turkey diving.
So, you have the turkey diving story. I'm going to have to trademark it now, since everyone will know what I'm talking about.
This Thanksgiving season, I'll be watching for all you newbie "turkey divers" -- just don't come to MY Safeway -- I already have it staked out.
Now, considering I've had a couple hundred emails from people about my inventive turkey purchasing, I decided to re-post the original story.
ORIGINAL - TURKEY DIVING
After much interest in a post where I mentioned turkey diving -(and don't forget the prodding and threats from my wonderful readership) - This story's for you!
Our Safeway does this great thing before Thanksgiving where turkeys go on sale (this really shouldn't come as a surprise to anyone). Anyway, it will have the really nice, brand-name turkeys for a deal - like up to a 14 pounder for a few bucks, and then over a 14 pounder for a couple bucks more. The key - is getting the most turkey poundage for your buck, right? Everyone with me so far?
Okay. So - the only way to really do this is to DIG through all of the turkeys in the freezer bins. Most people don't go to the trouble of intense searching, they see the sign and think, "ooh turkeys are on sale" - and grab one. How do I know this? Many years of observation, that's how!
Let me tell you, those people disappoint me. Where's the fun in that?
This is what I do:
Go to the store with several friends- (it's even more fun if they have a child or two with them... you'll understand in a minute)- Head to those turkey freezers and everyone stake out territory. Then, you dig. And there are rules: You MUST look at every turkey in the freezer. Yes, I said EVERY turkey. And if you are too short to reach all the way in, you yell, "I'm goin' in!" One of your faithful friends will help you by holding your legs so that you can "dive" in. Another option is to throw a small child in to help you look (not literally - you don't really think I would do that, now do you?) Actually, you can hold the child's legs while they reach for that last one in the corner that no-one else can get to, but you just KNOW that's it's the biggest one in the freezer!
The other important thing to remember - is to sing! Yes, you heard me. Sing.
My personal favorite is "I love you a bushel and a peck, a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck..." This is great fun while turkey diving.
So, you have the turkey diving story. I'm going to have to trademark it now, since everyone will know what I'm talking about.
This Thanksgiving season, I'll be watching for all you newbie "turkey divers" -- just don't come to MY Safeway -- I already have it staked out.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Blessings Overflow
Since we are now in the month of November - (yikes! I better go turkey diving soon) - I'm wanting to remind us all about thanksgiving. Not just the holiday - but the act.
What is thanksgiving? Well, the Encarta Dictionary on my computer says this:
thanksgiving -
1- a prayer that offers thanks to God
2- an expression or an act of giving thanks
3- a public acknowledgment or celebration of divine goodness
All three of those definitions talk about an act - doing something. How much do we think about this? And are we in the habit of thanksgiving?
Most of you know that we just returned from a 5000+ mile road-trip. There were lots of chances to get upset, whine, grumble, or complain, (especially when people don't use their blinkers- LOL) - but I tried to remind myself and the kiddos to find the positive. Find the Joy! is our tagline. So, we thanked God for the little angels who cut us off on the interstate, and looked for the positive in all of our adventurous situations. The kids are so good at this, taking a trip is always a pleasant experience. I can't begin to tell you how very blessed I am by my children each and every day. They have learned to laugh right along with me...
A great example of this - I parked under a tree one time to help keep the truck cool. Little did I know, five gazillion birds would decide to flock to that tree while we were inside a restaurant. Needless to say, my truck was not very pretty when we returned to it. Josh was a little grossed out by what was all over his window, but we sure did have a good laugh over it. It's amazing what a positive attitude can do.
So - back to thanksgiving. Are you in the habit of giving thanks? Do you only think about it on the holiday? Do you thank God for each and every day? Do you celebrate His divine goodness?
We're also in the election season. In fact, in a couple of days, it will be over. I've noticed that most people have lost the act of giving thanks during this time. It all seems to come across as whining and complaining. People are passionate about their candidate and seem to love to argue about it. Christians are fighting with other Christians over the issues. (I'm very passionate about what I believe in as well, so I'm not saying not stand up for what you believe in.) But the point I would like to make is that we are spoiled in this country. We've stopped giving thanks for the precious, precious freedom that we enjoy day in and day out. We've stopped giving thanks for all the blessings we have, that many people around the world are dying for. We've become a whining, grumbling, and complaining society.
How can we change this? One day at a time, one word at a time, one heart at a time.
Instead of the "woe is me" attitude, we could be thanking God. Instead of complaining about the traffic, we could be thanking God. Instead of whining about our bills, or the clothes we wish we had, or the dishes piling up, or whatever you can think of to whine about - we could be thanking God.
That's my challenge for you this week - thanksgiving.
How can you show it? How can you live it?
Wow - can you imagine if we instituted my five cent fine for whining, grumbling, or complaining across the country? I would hope that it would make people think twice about their attitudes.
Life is hard, but God is so good.
Let's give thanks.
What is thanksgiving? Well, the Encarta Dictionary on my computer says this:
thanksgiving -
1- a prayer that offers thanks to God
2- an expression or an act of giving thanks
3- a public acknowledgment or celebration of divine goodness
All three of those definitions talk about an act - doing something. How much do we think about this? And are we in the habit of thanksgiving?
Most of you know that we just returned from a 5000+ mile road-trip. There were lots of chances to get upset, whine, grumble, or complain, (especially when people don't use their blinkers- LOL) - but I tried to remind myself and the kiddos to find the positive. Find the Joy! is our tagline. So, we thanked God for the little angels who cut us off on the interstate, and looked for the positive in all of our adventurous situations. The kids are so good at this, taking a trip is always a pleasant experience. I can't begin to tell you how very blessed I am by my children each and every day. They have learned to laugh right along with me...
A great example of this - I parked under a tree one time to help keep the truck cool. Little did I know, five gazillion birds would decide to flock to that tree while we were inside a restaurant. Needless to say, my truck was not very pretty when we returned to it. Josh was a little grossed out by what was all over his window, but we sure did have a good laugh over it. It's amazing what a positive attitude can do.
So - back to thanksgiving. Are you in the habit of giving thanks? Do you only think about it on the holiday? Do you thank God for each and every day? Do you celebrate His divine goodness?
We're also in the election season. In fact, in a couple of days, it will be over. I've noticed that most people have lost the act of giving thanks during this time. It all seems to come across as whining and complaining. People are passionate about their candidate and seem to love to argue about it. Christians are fighting with other Christians over the issues. (I'm very passionate about what I believe in as well, so I'm not saying not stand up for what you believe in.) But the point I would like to make is that we are spoiled in this country. We've stopped giving thanks for the precious, precious freedom that we enjoy day in and day out. We've stopped giving thanks for all the blessings we have, that many people around the world are dying for. We've become a whining, grumbling, and complaining society.
How can we change this? One day at a time, one word at a time, one heart at a time.
Instead of the "woe is me" attitude, we could be thanking God. Instead of complaining about the traffic, we could be thanking God. Instead of whining about our bills, or the clothes we wish we had, or the dishes piling up, or whatever you can think of to whine about - we could be thanking God.
That's my challenge for you this week - thanksgiving.
How can you show it? How can you live it?
Wow - can you imagine if we instituted my five cent fine for whining, grumbling, or complaining across the country? I would hope that it would make people think twice about their attitudes.
Life is hard, but God is so good.
Let's give thanks.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Does Anyone Know How to Use a Blinker?
I'm on the road, speaking, singing, and laughing at myself as we share our story.
On this roadtrip, I determined the other day that I must surely be the only person on the road who knows how to drive. How did I come to this understanding of the so-called drivers around me? Well... after the one-hundred-seventy-fifth person cut me off without the use of their blinker... I came to that conclusion.
There were many times, I would react in shock and say, "I can't believe you just did that!" As if the person in front of me could hear me through the windshield. And then, with even more brilliance on my part, I would speak gently, with great respect (can you hear the sarcasm?) to the driver in front of me and demonstrate with my own blinkers - how to properly use them.
After much thought on this issue, I realized that the traveling people behind me, were probably thinking, "Who is that crazy person in front of us, in the large expedition, who doesn't know how to drive-- they keep using their blinkers when they aren't going anywhere."
I told the story this weekend, to demonstrate yet again, that I am not perfect. Which I'm sure will help others hold me accountable. :)
So, if you happen to see a large white SUV traveling down the road using their blinkers repeatedly, it's just me -- attempting to KINDLY teach those around me that blinkers are to be used -- with no whining, grumbling, or complaining (because we have a five cent fine for that, you know) and I will find the joy in yet another adventure in my life.
On this roadtrip, I determined the other day that I must surely be the only person on the road who knows how to drive. How did I come to this understanding of the so-called drivers around me? Well... after the one-hundred-seventy-fifth person cut me off without the use of their blinker... I came to that conclusion.
There were many times, I would react in shock and say, "I can't believe you just did that!" As if the person in front of me could hear me through the windshield. And then, with even more brilliance on my part, I would speak gently, with great respect (can you hear the sarcasm?) to the driver in front of me and demonstrate with my own blinkers - how to properly use them.
After much thought on this issue, I realized that the traveling people behind me, were probably thinking, "Who is that crazy person in front of us, in the large expedition, who doesn't know how to drive-- they keep using their blinkers when they aren't going anywhere."
I told the story this weekend, to demonstrate yet again, that I am not perfect. Which I'm sure will help others hold me accountable. :)
So, if you happen to see a large white SUV traveling down the road using their blinkers repeatedly, it's just me -- attempting to KINDLY teach those around me that blinkers are to be used -- with no whining, grumbling, or complaining (because we have a five cent fine for that, you know) and I will find the joy in yet another adventure in my life.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Reading Contest
Hey all~ I'm so excited about how many people have entered my contest. Here is a link to some of the books that will be given away as prizes. With links to all the incredible authors' websites! There will be more books added as I get them.
So check out the books and keep those pages turning!
So check out the books and keep those pages turning!
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
That Infamous Bus...
One year ago today, September 30, 2007, I will never forget.
The bus pulled up in front of our rental home, and Ty Pennington yelled into his megaphone. The collective gasp from our family will always echo in my ears.
I've had such an influx of email and contact about the anniversary that I thought I'd post :)
Everyone wants to celebrate with us, and know how we are! Thank you for supporting us and loving us.
It has been an incredible year. And I'm praising God for all that He has done. Kayla's health has skyrocketed, and the house is amazing. Every day, I'm amazed and look around in awe - praising God for this community and EMHE and all that He has blessed us with.
The year has flown by - with airings of our EMHE episode, other TV appearances, and sharing of our story. We've met some amazing people, and have been able to reach out to many others.
But it also hasn't been without 'casualties' - a few were upset with inaccuracies in the TV shows (although we didn't have anything to do with that - it hurt them nonetheless.) And there has been so much contact from around the world, that we have tried to help as many people as we can, even if it's just encouragement - but on the flip-side of that - it has taken time away from good friends. And I miss them.
I've realized even more through this process that I am NOT perfect and can't be everything to all people. But by the grace of God, I will keep doing my best. One day at a time.
So, it has been an amazing year, a blessed year, a crazy year, and a learning year. I'm so thankful for all the wonderful people in our lives, and for the opportunity we've been given.
Thank you for loving us, praying for us, supporting us, and just being there.
I love to hear from all of you.
Praise God From Whom ALL Blessings Flow!
The bus pulled up in front of our rental home, and Ty Pennington yelled into his megaphone. The collective gasp from our family will always echo in my ears.
I've had such an influx of email and contact about the anniversary that I thought I'd post :)
Everyone wants to celebrate with us, and know how we are! Thank you for supporting us and loving us.
It has been an incredible year. And I'm praising God for all that He has done. Kayla's health has skyrocketed, and the house is amazing. Every day, I'm amazed and look around in awe - praising God for this community and EMHE and all that He has blessed us with.
The year has flown by - with airings of our EMHE episode, other TV appearances, and sharing of our story. We've met some amazing people, and have been able to reach out to many others.
But it also hasn't been without 'casualties' - a few were upset with inaccuracies in the TV shows (although we didn't have anything to do with that - it hurt them nonetheless.) And there has been so much contact from around the world, that we have tried to help as many people as we can, even if it's just encouragement - but on the flip-side of that - it has taken time away from good friends. And I miss them.
I've realized even more through this process that I am NOT perfect and can't be everything to all people. But by the grace of God, I will keep doing my best. One day at a time.
So, it has been an amazing year, a blessed year, a crazy year, and a learning year. I'm so thankful for all the wonderful people in our lives, and for the opportunity we've been given.
Thank you for loving us, praying for us, supporting us, and just being there.
I love to hear from all of you.
Praise God From Whom ALL Blessings Flow!
Friday, September 26, 2008
Two Years Ago Today...
...our beautiful daughter, Kayla, underwent brain decompression surgery.
She is doing so incredibly well. I praise God for what He has done in her life and what He will continue to do.
I remember those days so clearly. As a mom, it about broke my heart in two. Kayla asked me to go into the OR with her, she was already almost out from the first round of medication, but WOW - that was so hard. I cried as I left her in there, and the poor man who accompanied me in and out probably saw this a lot from parents. I had been fine until I had to leave her in there. I remember the scrubs feeling itchy, the air being oh-so-cold, and antiseptics leaving a burning sensation in my nose. No, I will never forget that.
BUT - I will also never forget - the look on the doctor's face when he came to talk to us after her surgery. His smile as he explained how successful it had been. And the way my husband wrapped his arm around me. The most beautiful part? Getting to see her for the first time afterward.
For several weeks, Kayla didn't want me to leave her side. So Josh and I spent lots of time just sitting with her, beside her, coloring, making art projects, reading books, and having fun. Jeremy would come home and sit with her so I could make lunch - so she would always have someone at her side (she was wobbly for a while and had trouble moving herself around). She doesn't feel pain until it's really intense, so we were concerned about many issues, but Kayla was cautious and knew that she had just been through something intense.
Two years later, I sit here remembering all the emotions that played through my life. I glance at my daughter and son - thanking God for all He has given me. The good and the bad. The ups and the downs. The extreme hard times, and the incredibly joyous times.
And... a little song plays through my head. He's still working on me.
James 1:2-4 are my life verses. And oh, how I long to be mature and complete. :)
God is good and He is God.
And so today we celebrate a two year anniversary. Our own miracle.
Thank you all for praying for us and sharing the journey with us...
She is doing so incredibly well. I praise God for what He has done in her life and what He will continue to do.
I remember those days so clearly. As a mom, it about broke my heart in two. Kayla asked me to go into the OR with her, she was already almost out from the first round of medication, but WOW - that was so hard. I cried as I left her in there, and the poor man who accompanied me in and out probably saw this a lot from parents. I had been fine until I had to leave her in there. I remember the scrubs feeling itchy, the air being oh-so-cold, and antiseptics leaving a burning sensation in my nose. No, I will never forget that.
BUT - I will also never forget - the look on the doctor's face when he came to talk to us after her surgery. His smile as he explained how successful it had been. And the way my husband wrapped his arm around me. The most beautiful part? Getting to see her for the first time afterward.
For several weeks, Kayla didn't want me to leave her side. So Josh and I spent lots of time just sitting with her, beside her, coloring, making art projects, reading books, and having fun. Jeremy would come home and sit with her so I could make lunch - so she would always have someone at her side (she was wobbly for a while and had trouble moving herself around). She doesn't feel pain until it's really intense, so we were concerned about many issues, but Kayla was cautious and knew that she had just been through something intense.
Two years later, I sit here remembering all the emotions that played through my life. I glance at my daughter and son - thanking God for all He has given me. The good and the bad. The ups and the downs. The extreme hard times, and the incredibly joyous times.
And... a little song plays through my head. He's still working on me.
James 1:2-4 are my life verses. And oh, how I long to be mature and complete. :)
God is good and He is God.
And so today we celebrate a two year anniversary. Our own miracle.
Thank you all for praying for us and sharing the journey with us...
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Road Trips, Famous Authors, and Lots of Luggage
This past week, I had the awesome privilege of traveling to and attending the National ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) Conference.
We drove 1,100 miles (one way - and that means we drove 1,100 miles the other way too). We being - myself, Holly, Josh, Kayla, the amazing Donita K. Paul, her daughter and my friend - the Queen of Denmark (a.k.a. Evangeline Denmark).
We had a blast.
Arriving in Minneapolis in the wee hours of the morning, a wonderful gentleman from the hotel came to help us unload. Does anyone remember the post when I stated that we do not travel light? Well, this young man's gaze fully took in my giant Expedition loaded with passengers, luggage, and topped with two car-top carriers - and he knew the truth of that statement. His expression was a little overwhelmed, but he didn't say a word. I walked up and told him how much we appreciated his help, explaining that my daughter has special needs - and we have to travel with the cooling gear, ice chests, medical stuff, and organic food. But he just turned to me and smiled, because he knew who we were - not just because of TV either - he's related to our phenomenal neurologist! It's a small world. :)
We finally unloaded, got everything arranged in our rooms, and crashed. One slight problem - the room wasn't quite cool enough - so I stayed awake most of the night taking Kayla's temperature. By mid-morning, her temp had risen, but she was still feeling all right. I talked to the hotel managers, and they sent engineering. Engineering worked on it only to discover that our room couldn't get down to the temp that we needed. Oh boy. So, anyone want to venture a guess at what we did? We had to change rooms. Ah, my life. It's always an adventure.
Once again, all of the paraphenalia had to be loaded up and moved. Four trips and many elevator rides later, the Bellman and I had resorted to telling jokes and cracking each other up. Donita and Evangeline were such good sports -- you see, they aren't accustomed to our chaotic, sometimes crazy, always interesting lives. So I felt really bad that they were having to go through all of this with us. They took it all in stride - Donita in the cold rooms while I traipsed back and forth with the Bellman, and Evangeline throwing things back into bags in the not-so-cold rooms, while Holly had the kiddos in the pool. Let me tell you - I love those ladies. We were close friends before, but now, I feel like Anne from Avonlea - kindred spirits is what those two are to me!
There is a lot more to our little adventure, and I have a feeling Evangeline will blog about bugs raining down, safety pins, and chocolate - so I will let her tell THAT fun part of the story - her blog is www.breathenbreatheout.blogspot.com
During the conference, I'd decided that I needed an "As Seen On TV" sticker on my name badge. Why, you ask? Well, it's amazing to be surrounded by wonderful and incredibly famous authors - but it's pretty funny when people recognize you, and can't remember why! And of course, since I was at a "writer's" conference - most people assumed I must be some famous author with my picture plastered across the back cover. Ah - maybe one day - but for now, I'm happy to say, "Oh, you just saw me on TV, that's why I look familiar." It was a hoot! And I'm glad I was able to be a part of ACFW.
My life is an adventure...
PS - I've had trouble with blogger posting my blogs. My website gets a lot of traffic, and after the Discovery airing, the counter froze up and I couldn't post. So this is a trial run. If it works, then I will finally get to post the author bios for our reading contest!
God Bless and may you have many of your own adventures!
We drove 1,100 miles (one way - and that means we drove 1,100 miles the other way too). We being - myself, Holly, Josh, Kayla, the amazing Donita K. Paul, her daughter and my friend - the Queen of Denmark (a.k.a. Evangeline Denmark).
We had a blast.
Arriving in Minneapolis in the wee hours of the morning, a wonderful gentleman from the hotel came to help us unload. Does anyone remember the post when I stated that we do not travel light? Well, this young man's gaze fully took in my giant Expedition loaded with passengers, luggage, and topped with two car-top carriers - and he knew the truth of that statement. His expression was a little overwhelmed, but he didn't say a word. I walked up and told him how much we appreciated his help, explaining that my daughter has special needs - and we have to travel with the cooling gear, ice chests, medical stuff, and organic food. But he just turned to me and smiled, because he knew who we were - not just because of TV either - he's related to our phenomenal neurologist! It's a small world. :)
We finally unloaded, got everything arranged in our rooms, and crashed. One slight problem - the room wasn't quite cool enough - so I stayed awake most of the night taking Kayla's temperature. By mid-morning, her temp had risen, but she was still feeling all right. I talked to the hotel managers, and they sent engineering. Engineering worked on it only to discover that our room couldn't get down to the temp that we needed. Oh boy. So, anyone want to venture a guess at what we did? We had to change rooms. Ah, my life. It's always an adventure.
Once again, all of the paraphenalia had to be loaded up and moved. Four trips and many elevator rides later, the Bellman and I had resorted to telling jokes and cracking each other up. Donita and Evangeline were such good sports -- you see, they aren't accustomed to our chaotic, sometimes crazy, always interesting lives. So I felt really bad that they were having to go through all of this with us. They took it all in stride - Donita in the cold rooms while I traipsed back and forth with the Bellman, and Evangeline throwing things back into bags in the not-so-cold rooms, while Holly had the kiddos in the pool. Let me tell you - I love those ladies. We were close friends before, but now, I feel like Anne from Avonlea - kindred spirits is what those two are to me!
There is a lot more to our little adventure, and I have a feeling Evangeline will blog about bugs raining down, safety pins, and chocolate - so I will let her tell THAT fun part of the story - her blog is www.breathenbreatheout.blogspot.com
During the conference, I'd decided that I needed an "As Seen On TV" sticker on my name badge. Why, you ask? Well, it's amazing to be surrounded by wonderful and incredibly famous authors - but it's pretty funny when people recognize you, and can't remember why! And of course, since I was at a "writer's" conference - most people assumed I must be some famous author with my picture plastered across the back cover. Ah - maybe one day - but for now, I'm happy to say, "Oh, you just saw me on TV, that's why I look familiar." It was a hoot! And I'm glad I was able to be a part of ACFW.
My life is an adventure...
PS - I've had trouble with blogger posting my blogs. My website gets a lot of traffic, and after the Discovery airing, the counter froze up and I couldn't post. So this is a trial run. If it works, then I will finally get to post the author bios for our reading contest!
God Bless and may you have many of your own adventures!
Sunday, September 7, 2008
MYSTERY ER on Discovery Health Channel!!!
Our family will be featured in an episode of MYSTERY ER - entitled, "Painful Truth" - which will premier tomorrow, September 8,2008 on Discovery Health Channel. It will re-air I believe later in the week and other times as well.
I'm sorry I'm a little behind in updating the info about it - but we are hoping that it will bless people and hopefully help others.
Be watching later this week for continuing info on our "READING CONTEST" - and bios of authors who donated the prizes! I had to ask for lots of donations, since we have SO many people entered. You all are awesome - so KEEP READING!!
Would love to hear your thoughts on the show! Have a great week!
I'm sorry I'm a little behind in updating the info about it - but we are hoping that it will bless people and hopefully help others.
Be watching later this week for continuing info on our "READING CONTEST" - and bios of authors who donated the prizes! I had to ask for lots of donations, since we have SO many people entered. You all are awesome - so KEEP READING!!
Would love to hear your thoughts on the show! Have a great week!
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