tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55957242322620568792024-03-12T22:43:34.798-04:00Reading RosieUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger266125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5595724232262056879.post-59519415113368578642013-01-21T21:39:00.000-05:002013-01-21T21:39:12.717-05:00I Asked For a Breast Lift<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m8t5mlJlWF1qdo62to1_500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m8t5mlJlWF1qdo62to1_500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m8t5mlJlWF1qdo62to1_500.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I am a slug at blogging.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Worse, I am the slime on the underbelly of a
slug at blogging.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That sticky trail that
you step in while going barefoot on a summer evening that adheres to your foot
like gorilla glue and has to be scraped off with an old knife…. that would be
me. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Gag. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bad.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And yet I still find myself writing posts in
my head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I just can’t seem to get them
into blog format. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The song by the Rolling Stones…”You can’t always get what you want, but
if you try, sometimes, you get what you need” is playing loudly in my head
today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What I want is a breast lift and
liposuction on my thighs, what I’m getting is a hysterectomy. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I figure, if I’m going to have major surgery I
should be able to see amazing visible results, but my SOB/GYN feels otherwise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And so next week I will have my hateful uterus
removed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not my ovaries mind you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Only my uterus. Because why would I want the
bitchy part of my reproductive system removed?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>No! I’ll just save those a couple more years and get all the good I can out
those wildly fluctuating hormones; wreak
as much havoc as I can with those babies while they’re still producing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Besides they are probably what are keeping my
breasts from touching my knees.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
thought you should know this, just in case you’re wondering what has been
happening in my little world.</span><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">My family (specifically my mother)
tells me I share too much on social media.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Actually, I share very little.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But
if I can make a humorous story from my everyday happenings and share it with
others who might be experiencing similar circumstances, I think why not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The mundane details are what constitute life
and if you only share the amazing, you’re simply not being real.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love real.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">My impending surgery has sparked
a streak of cleanliness in me that I haven’t experienced since my first
pregnancy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s like the nesting
syndrome on steroids.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have cleaned,
straightened, and organized every corner of my house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By the end of this week my refrigerator will
be stocked and in my freezer you will find meals frozen and ready to bake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All my towels are folded the same, beverage
glasses aligned and my plastic ware sorted and stacked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have
eliminated excess and even plan to get my hair cropped shorter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My
pantry is alphabetically arranged and an Excel spreadsheet exists with the
household inventory. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If I die, I want
the nosy people who come to visit my family impressed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m
not talking about friends who know my foibles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They’ll
laugh with me even in death.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m
talking about the ones to whom I’m a mystery and nothing is never exactly as it
appears.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want the last glimpse of my
world viewed like a quirky BBC movie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>That’s just who I am. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or was, as
the case may be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But chances are above average that I’ll
survive and in that case, I will have made my life easier for my family whilst
I am bed fast. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Isn’t that what
women/mother’s do?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I’ve been somewhat reclusive for
the past two months.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>December is a
difficult month for me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I battle
depression anyway, but I physically felt terrible too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wasn’t good company so I took the whole
month off work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>January ushered in a
raging flu season and I’ve purposefully stayed away from crowds trying to keep
myself well so my surgery could stay on schedule.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have worked in January, but I am
questioning the general public’s intelligence regarding illness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They get sick, stay home from work/school with
a temperature of 104, go to the doctor, are diagnosed with bronchitis, pneumonia,
strep throat and the stomach bug, then stop by the library on their way home to
get movies, check Facebook and play Farmville all the while coughing,
sneezing and vomiting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hand sanitizer
and Lysol are my best friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s a
mystery to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Stay home people!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just stay home!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">And so that is where I am on this
21st day of January, 2013, Martin Luther King Junior Day and Inauguration Day
of which I’ve watched none because I’ve been too busy shopping at Hobby Lobby,
eating at Chick-fil-A and cleaning my gun.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Just kidding people, just kidding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Maybe.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Thanks for reading, Rosie.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5595724232262056879.post-53373204398257740392012-09-06T13:45:00.000-04:002012-09-06T13:45:24.406-04:00The Tree On My Wall<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Pinterest is a time sucking form of social media that inspires a wealth of creativity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Because of this, I love Pinterest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not the time sucking part; the wealth of creativity part.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Over the last several months we have been redoing our family room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The rearranging left a large wall area perfect for a minimalist mural.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had been seeing the beautiful minimal trees on Pinterest and decided I must have one; unfortunately, I cannot draw or paint.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can sew a straight seam; I just can’t draw a straight line.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fortunately, I know a beautiful teenage girl who is incredibly talented and can draw or paint anything and she was gleeful to come to my assistance and do the project for me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since she is self-motivated in art, there was very little for me to do except give her an idea of what I wanted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She sketched her vision for the mural which was way better than any idea of mine and set to work over a few days this summer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The 20’ x 8’ wall became her canvas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Plus she named all the birds.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></span> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>Here is the result: </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">She did a beautiful job and I could not be more pleased!</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span> </div><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRxx8maj2ly5IcXuV2Zz7Tc2ao4lK-tI7JxVkxmKLZlqFXjG2WIItx10p8P2GXuDPXn40yDiQS1CJUPORchKCuqfkS_SNzG0NKCMMSH1Uvxw82K6gq793qE4_W-mKxdv6ird515m3aFLSW/s1600/Wall3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRxx8maj2ly5IcXuV2Zz7Tc2ao4lK-tI7JxVkxmKLZlqFXjG2WIItx10p8P2GXuDPXn40yDiQS1CJUPORchKCuqfkS_SNzG0NKCMMSH1Uvxw82K6gq793qE4_W-mKxdv6ird515m3aFLSW/s400/Wall3.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_MsqbC4nTWLClQsSvxQOPPZn2dizuwOCIBu22LPKBJ6iKSHRTpi53BBTV6AM2o_HX42rpNyg3yrwAqZp0LjAVuYBiE38BCdZEjJsDm6Wb2lk2O4UGO5w01Mf1tmItAQ2D9YQp29Dgmq3i/s1600/Wall2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="311" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_MsqbC4nTWLClQsSvxQOPPZn2dizuwOCIBu22LPKBJ6iKSHRTpi53BBTV6AM2o_HX42rpNyg3yrwAqZp0LjAVuYBiE38BCdZEjJsDm6Wb2lk2O4UGO5w01Mf1tmItAQ2D9YQp29Dgmq3i/s400/Wall2.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span><br />
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">In the process of this project and a few other incidents that have happened with my own sons over the summer, I’ve come to determine that adults undervalue youth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most adults have no idea what young people are thinking and how hard they are searching for value, not for what they will eventually achieve, but for who they presently are.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m not simply speaking of academic or athletic achievements; I’m speaking of spiritual contributions too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most people believe teens are slackers who put forth little effort; yet, what I see in my world are slacker adults.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They believe the teen years should be full of entertaining social events.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The bar is set low.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When rebellion sets in, the excuse “that’s just what happens in the teen years” seems to fit. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is wrong and unfair to the generation.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I’ve had the pleasure this summer to open my home to fifteen young people who have been in and out my doors almost on a daily basis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My house and the local volleyball court were the gathering places for these beautiful people this summer and that could be for several different reasons (a) I have two cute sons (b) I have the space (c) food is always available (d) I have rules but not too many (e) they know they are always welcome.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This particular group of kids love each other and wanted to spend as much time playing and praying together as they could before some left for college, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></span></span> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I believe they feel undervalued.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I suppose that has always been a generational struggle but it seems more noticeable to me recently.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These kids are smart, talented, well spoken, generous and respectful yet are given little credit for their abilities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are pushed to stay in their own space, not to give an opinion, contain their zeal, and go find themselves at college. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When they get a job, marry, have children and become monetarily stable, they are acceptable adults ready to contribute to the world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This troubles me….<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I see so many teens with amazing gifts and spiritual maturity eager to contribute to their community but squelched by a generation that doesn’t understand or appreciate them. </span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></span></span></span> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">So this post is for the teens that spent a large part of their summer in my house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They did not mind the dusty, dog haired floors or the fact that my hair changed different wild shades of orange and red this summer or that my T-shirt and shorts were sometimes raggedy when they showed up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They encouraged me to “just keep sewing” during a crazy month of June.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They tolerated a wild barking wiener dog that protects me like a 7’ body guard and the messy unmade beds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They slept in the floor and on couches that were rearranged every time they showed up while we redid our floors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They would be in my front porch swing chatting away when I got home from work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They brought food, ate our food, cleaned up their messes and laughed and talked and darn it I miss them now that school is back in session.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hope they felt valued, loved, wanted, and appreciated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Frankly, I’d rather spend time with teens and the twenty-something crowd than most “adults” I know. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They help bring my heart to a place of worship more than anything else and I am happy to share my “walls”, “stage” and “piano bench” with them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love them and I hope they know they always have a soft place to land in our home.</span></span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Thanks for reading, Rosie.</span></span></span></span></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5595724232262056879.post-66421596003776751592012-01-23T22:23:00.000-05:002012-01-23T22:23:41.885-05:00Midnight Water Leak Forces Family Into Bathroom Makeover!<div style="text-align: justify;">A recent water leak forced me to speed up a bathroom makeover I already had planned. It was one of those holy crap mornings where an inch of water flooded the bathroom floor and plunged me into fast action. Badumba...a little toilet humor there people!</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Here are a few photos of the mess I was in about three weeks ago:</div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHyo2VrbloFQtiw4P4OlVWRqXVDIyhPfZNrc_0OFSonVUdyxHVPBEU7nsxgN5rt-n8BFnGngYRrTz-cqsNDtIJjtTy0Yuom4Jtw2ALpv-uy-R5hYQNCdFWDsGJIAso_bU5QZzfgAubY5xs/s1600/102_0409.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHyo2VrbloFQtiw4P4OlVWRqXVDIyhPfZNrc_0OFSonVUdyxHVPBEU7nsxgN5rt-n8BFnGngYRrTz-cqsNDtIJjtTy0Yuom4Jtw2ALpv-uy-R5hYQNCdFWDsGJIAso_bU5QZzfgAubY5xs/s400/102_0409.JPG" width="297" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_1NWXMwOQZ2D2yjTNMEdxTdKNkhmcbanqwia1Xxo9u6VFBdrT8YgNlvPrLHzC044iKM33VYsLlJBuJWbQKBOw31EZQ5M_qtnjr8hZ1JOihyXXF1lVQBVvGrgrmHA1bq9LTl01bUnLZ9DN/s1600/102_0407.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_1NWXMwOQZ2D2yjTNMEdxTdKNkhmcbanqwia1Xxo9u6VFBdrT8YgNlvPrLHzC044iKM33VYsLlJBuJWbQKBOw31EZQ5M_qtnjr8hZ1JOihyXXF1lVQBVvGrgrmHA1bq9LTl01bUnLZ9DN/s400/102_0407.JPG" width="351" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX5Zh3uAbiv1KPqsP7SY7G-Pscizx9GAUm1GaAg4-Br7Ene6tqEiuhSmeIyepxN6Hvh-aIsgOGpuZtiUt63nLHvepK3VDGpxqYtdSP7wUR0MohvCb6bZN0y9fMihAxGgNyE0_TAsk5_g75/s1600/102_0408.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX5Zh3uAbiv1KPqsP7SY7G-Pscizx9GAUm1GaAg4-Br7Ene6tqEiuhSmeIyepxN6Hvh-aIsgOGpuZtiUt63nLHvepK3VDGpxqYtdSP7wUR0MohvCb6bZN0y9fMihAxGgNyE0_TAsk5_g75/s400/102_0408.JPG" width="286" /></a></div><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Fifteen years ago during construction, I was working full-time, hugely pregnant with my second son, and busy with activities involving my oldest son who was in first grade. Stressful time! Needless to say, I had very little time to think about decorating and basically threw together wallpaper, and flooring. It was adequate. It endured bath times, potty training, stomach bugs, and science experiments. It was past time for a redo. Thanks to Pinterest, I had already been making mental preparations and had an idea of what I wanted. It came together very nicely and I am now strategically planning a midnight water leak for the master bathroom.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsLIBNGCG-FMTBJeETab2ALLsebi-7w3U2ytEyvgdNslKPg1oz7_LjI3L2QpjOt-_zJyHc3rTN8aUaB2ww9CnEepSiosfAqh7nBAN-V3pKqRv-8E16bcKGO1_qSBF8wHeazuab-2RWuzeh/s1600/102_0410.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsLIBNGCG-FMTBJeETab2ALLsebi-7w3U2ytEyvgdNslKPg1oz7_LjI3L2QpjOt-_zJyHc3rTN8aUaB2ww9CnEepSiosfAqh7nBAN-V3pKqRv-8E16bcKGO1_qSBF8wHeazuab-2RWuzeh/s320/102_0410.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbhHIYOBU0Rf4JNrT5Jq8InggMLHFm12-GnljLxW0q4nBJ_Hdk9Ks05Jmn9bevPiqPM_TqkEJup9wNwfJFTVGzmCAlUH2gPVqoo_sXGKYwInyZ4JTNUfibPXxwih1yxAMTGX34_NyWXF7C/s1600/102_0429.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbhHIYOBU0Rf4JNrT5Jq8InggMLHFm12-GnljLxW0q4nBJ_Hdk9Ks05Jmn9bevPiqPM_TqkEJup9wNwfJFTVGzmCAlUH2gPVqoo_sXGKYwInyZ4JTNUfibPXxwih1yxAMTGX34_NyWXF7C/s320/102_0429.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The new flooring looks like ceramic tile but it is actually laminate. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I grouted to give it a modern look. Since this is mainly the men's room, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I wanted a more masculine color scheme. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8GqSXI_Isx9rYPyr0Fwf3iOGM10WEnUlXe3WJI2A8rtVSNGQsx9LO7XhmjQsEq8nO03zd_c1LK-r7MnyMwjpCxZA_y8bHvxgRb05J7w21r7bJ5_bPlpBL-hoZWMwZZgEpGBCyzTV_Q5xo/s1600/102_0414.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8GqSXI_Isx9rYPyr0Fwf3iOGM10WEnUlXe3WJI2A8rtVSNGQsx9LO7XhmjQsEq8nO03zd_c1LK-r7MnyMwjpCxZA_y8bHvxgRb05J7w21r7bJ5_bPlpBL-hoZWMwZZgEpGBCyzTV_Q5xo/s320/102_0414.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtDvqBtNt0QW76ZNOvLNSdyR1P6vOVG0VRF4vrcNVms7k0rCCkJ0XisV9f2ddsxNTgAR7-VywODIJSfnCid29EXUB2wKmW1_2tPjckYaCW1cxMCnIXtIwjy6byQQMW6I8x5_Z-609JfwoG/s1600/102_0415.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtDvqBtNt0QW76ZNOvLNSdyR1P6vOVG0VRF4vrcNVms7k0rCCkJ0XisV9f2ddsxNTgAR7-VywODIJSfnCid29EXUB2wKmW1_2tPjckYaCW1cxMCnIXtIwjy6byQQMW6I8x5_Z-609JfwoG/s320/102_0415.JPG" width="234" /></a></div><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">I chose Behr's Premium Plus Ultra Interior Paint in Elephant Skin for the wall color and applied two coats. I used a basic wood primer on the floor before applying the laminate and applied the same primer to the bathroom cabinet prior to painting. For the cabinet color, I chose Behr's Premium Plus Ultra Paint in Black As Ink. I also used two coats on the cabinet allowing each to dry for several hours between applications. Do not fear black, people! The cabinet turned out beautifully and now I want to paint every cabinet in the house black.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">I kept the same hardware, soap/toothbrush holder and towel racks but purchased a new vanity mirror and light fixture. The shower curtain and rug came from Target.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2btC5KLemx7n91f9ixoV-DieLQadxLcpLbPCramxf1ZAc71Zi4_opWnQLUf7svoIq0_xgvxVYVtks-gr0Gf4WSUPrN66Ax1i8WB4oWUU_K4r2zHMLkoz1rwNZRGaDpMHOTnShGsVrvtwQ/s1600/102_0432.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2btC5KLemx7n91f9ixoV-DieLQadxLcpLbPCramxf1ZAc71Zi4_opWnQLUf7svoIq0_xgvxVYVtks-gr0Gf4WSUPrN66Ax1i8WB4oWUU_K4r2zHMLkoz1rwNZRGaDpMHOTnShGsVrvtwQ/s400/102_0432.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">I kept the decorations simple because I can't stand clutter!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">"Be Yourself"... a good motto.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHBlazPSbkV_OqBNUdbSKqVJYDP5gXXpBbGZ5OMvqeA5It-JAak_ZOfzcTtaD5Mf6C-S4KIHHW4uybLhipa8AgMndT3WJuwzu2f17kode2BwNE2HDKiJktgXacJsi_jgo_AZwJsmCNogiK/s1600/102_0433.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHBlazPSbkV_OqBNUdbSKqVJYDP5gXXpBbGZ5OMvqeA5It-JAak_ZOfzcTtaD5Mf6C-S4KIHHW4uybLhipa8AgMndT3WJuwzu2f17kode2BwNE2HDKiJktgXacJsi_jgo_AZwJsmCNogiK/s400/102_0433.JPG" width="347" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I still have some floor trim painting to do but for the most part...It is finished!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">If only it would stay this clean....</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Thanks for reading, Rosie.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5595724232262056879.post-30190777318301014372012-01-15T12:55:00.002-05:002012-01-15T20:47:40.835-05:00Thinking, Fast and Slow about Tim Tebow<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFhScFXOFcm2LYVEy7QUUEVQ1bMu9yYTOnoobOr4xTQwtX2TsmF7JVb_HUxS62r2Kzj4yJiJ_W6TaNnG1EgpkBuaLq8kA4ZiswdOJCLaPTM9THrzkDafgzt0BuReBEpVOSuZ3DKC2QHi4e/s1600/think-outside-the-box.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFhScFXOFcm2LYVEy7QUUEVQ1bMu9yYTOnoobOr4xTQwtX2TsmF7JVb_HUxS62r2Kzj4yJiJ_W6TaNnG1EgpkBuaLq8kA4ZiswdOJCLaPTM9THrzkDafgzt0BuReBEpVOSuZ3DKC2QHi4e/s320/think-outside-the-box.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Being true on my quest to read more non-fiction in 2012, I brought home the audio CD <u>Thinking, Fast and Slow</u> by Daniel Kahneman.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sixteen CDs of pure psychology way over my head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nevertheless, if I listen to information I already know, I’ll never learn anything right?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Am I an intuitive or rational thinker?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I like to believe rational.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>More likely though, as with the majority of people, I think intuitively.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not because I’m not capable of rational thinking, I simply do not always take the extra seconds necessary to rationalize because of cognitive ease.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mr. Khneman’s book/audio has been worth my driving time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Daniel Egan, the reader, gently and humorously explains how the human mind...well, thinks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I would never take the time to read this information, but listening on CD while driving makes for a very interesting ride.<o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">What I am taking the time to read is Laura Ingram’s book <u>Of Thee I Zing</u>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A hilarious look at the quirks of today’s culture…from muffin tops and sagger pants to body shots and rapper rants… Laura’s book is full of satirical (albeit sad) glimpses in today’s culture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I find myself complaining about the culture while at the same time contributing to its demise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And that’s the point of her book…we all do, in some form or another, contribute to the cultural climate.<o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div style="border-color: currentColor currentColor windowtext; border-style: none none dotted; border-width: medium medium 3pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 0in 0in 31pt;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: currentColor; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: dotted windowtext 3.0pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 31.0pt 0in; padding: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">So I’m reading two books…one written by a “liberal” the other by a “conservative” and I find them both uniquely informative.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fascinating!<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: currentColor; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: dotted windowtext 3.0pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 31.0pt 0in; padding: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">A word on the whole Tim Tebow thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>First I am NOT a football fan!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t understand the game or all the crazy hype.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I steer far, far away from the whole football scene.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s how I roll.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, I live with three football crazed men and I hear it ALL!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why do the media dislike Tim Tebow so vehemently?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He seems to be a polite, intelligent, talented, young man. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He lives his Faith out loud.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tim Tebow is a Christian.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m thinking that if he were Buddhist, Hindu, Muslim, Wiccan or even Atheist and just as vocal on the field, no stink would be made.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The media and some football fanatics seem to be uncomfortable that this young man prays publically and openly believes the Bible. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do I think God loves football?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Personally, I think He is indifferent about the game but I believe He loves Tim Tebow not as a football player, but as a man who is trying to be obedient to the True and Living God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And the thing is…I don’t think God loves Tim Tebow any more than any other player, man, woman, or child in history.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tim Tebow shouldn’t be put on a pedestal…he is human and will eventually fall off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But Tim Tebow knows this and chooses to put God on the pedestal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God never fails.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Touchdown!<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: currentColor; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: dotted windowtext 3.0pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 31.0pt 0in; padding: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Oh wait!!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It could be the whole intuitive/rational thinking thing of our outlandish culture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> What do you think? </span><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: currentColor; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: dotted windowtext 3.0pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 31.0pt 0in; padding: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Thanks for reading, Rosie.</span></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5595724232262056879.post-45554890859977103202012-01-02T13:03:00.001-05:002012-01-02T13:15:53.566-05:00Living Deliberate In 2012<div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-txKlrC_IERU/TwH0OytjLfI/AAAAAAAAEMQ/P6H5PsHkLHI/s1600/Areyouhappy_a2_web_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" rea="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-txKlrC_IERU/TwH0OytjLfI/AAAAAAAAEMQ/P6H5PsHkLHI/s320/Areyouhappy_a2_web_1024.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>Happy New Year to anyone who might read my little blog. I have good intentions to write, but you know what “they” say about good intentions…. <strong>“Good intentions are not enough; they've never put an onion in the soup yet.”</strong> Today I’m being deliberate, and putting the onion in the soup, so to speak.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Holiday season was tough for me again this year. Each year when November rolls around, I seem to take a plunge deeper into the dark spot I tread in every day, with the weight of expectations pulling me farther under. Added to this year was a bad sinus infection that sent me to the doctor twice. BUT, I can say, the season wasn’t as difficult this year as in years past. I took more control of my time, and did what was best for me and the immediate family. I got through it without as many meltdowns or tears, and actually found myself smiling and laughing a few times on Christmas Day. I call that a small success, and take it appreciatively. If you struggle with depression as I do, then I'm sure you understand what I mean.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I used to write a family letter, and send out two-hundred cards every Christmas, but I didn't do that this year...it's too much. I used to bake hundreds of cookies, and decorate every square inch of my home, but I didn't do that this year either...just too much. I used to watch every Christmas special, and play Christmas music the entire month of December, but I didn't do that this year...again, too much.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I deliberately stayed away from Christmas music and TV specials until a few days before. I baked only a few (non-sugary) goodies. My gifts were very simple, and I did most of my shopping on-line, along with a few local purchases a day or so before Christmas. Christmas Eve was a relaxed luncheon at my in-laws. Christmas Day was church, a simple brunch with immediate family, and a short, relaxed visit to my Mother’s with some extended family. New Year’s Eve was spent quietly at home. My decorations are now down and stored away, and most of the goodies are gone. I’ve spent the last two days catching up on laundry. I'm so glad the season is over! Both my mental and physical health is better as well.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Although I don’t make resolutions, I do set a few goals each year. I’ve thought through what I want to accomplish this year, and will share them with you…</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><ul><li><div style="text-align: justify;">I want to write more…at least once a week write a blog post. That is a reasonable goal for me. I want to quit comparing my work to others'. I read these beautifully written blog posts of others, and sometimes that keep me from writing my own, because I feel my voice is not good enough. Screw that!</div></li>
</ul><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><ul><li><div style="text-align: justify;">I want to sew and sell more…my greatest joy comes from sewing, and I always feel wonderful when someone wants to purchase something I’ve made. I think two projects a month are doable.</div></li>
</ul><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><ul><li><div style="text-align: justify;">I want to get back on a regular Wednesday night schedule in my Zumba class. This is the one thing I do that makes me feel better emotionally and physically. I need it.</div></li>
</ul><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><ul><li><div style="text-align: justify;">I want to read more non-fiction, and specifically learn HTML with CSS coding. I know some, but my education goal for 2012 is to be fluent.</div></li>
</ul><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><ul><li><div style="text-align: justify;">I desire more confidence in myself…not sure how to achieve that one yet, but I’m working on it...any suggestions?</div></li>
</ul><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><ul><li><div style="text-align: justify;">I want to worship my Creator more purely. This doesn’t mean being at church every time the doors are open. It means, when I attend, I want it to be a deliberate act of worship not an obligation to others. I desire my heart to always be in a state of worship and wonder.</div></li>
</ul><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><ul><li><div style="text-align: justify;">I want to live more simply, and continue to purge my life of “stuff”. The older I get the less “stuff” I want around me. It seems to suffocate me.</div></li>
</ul><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><ul><li><div style="text-align: justify;">I want to give my best to the computer class I’ve agreed to teach. I’m a true geek at heart, and want to share the joy of geekiness with others.</div></li>
</ul><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">These are not amazing goals, very simple ones really, but they are enough for me. They are within boundaries to keep me sane; yet still give me a sense of accomplishment. They are concrete, but not to the point where I feel stuck. They also set perimeters to help me deal with those who want their life objectives to be mine also. I’m slowly learning what I need, and not worrying about what others expect. At forty-six you would think I’d have this figured out…not so!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Life’s a process, isn’t it?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I read a quote recently, but can’t remember who wrote it…wish I had kept the reference…</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>”Living a deliberate life is much better than living a life of habit.”</strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I like that. I think I’ll make it my mantra for 2011.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Thanks for reading, Rosie.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5595724232262056879.post-91511136865891943972011-09-26T11:27:00.000-04:002011-09-26T11:27:40.945-04:00Lower Back Pain? This Could Be The Back Support You Need<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Several years ago I taught a teen girl’s Sunday School class.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In that class, I built relationships with some amazing young ladies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is always a blessing when one of these girls contacts me and a big reason I enjoy Social Media sites such as Facebook (even though FB keeps freaking me out with changes); it reconnects people.<o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Recently, a girl I knew as Leigh Anne Stout contacted me through a mutual friend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Leigh Anne Nash is now a lovely young wife and mother.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In addition, she is a Physical Therapist, a certified Pilate's rehab instructor and currently works for the <a href="http://www.atlantafalconsptc.com/">Atlanta Falcons Physical Therapy Centers</a> in Georgia.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="color: black;">After working with hundreds of patients with both long term and recent onset back pain, Leigh Anne developed the inspiration that led to the creation of the Back Sac.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Leigh Anne was kind enough to ask me if I would be willing to do a product review and giveaway on my blog and I quickly agreed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The timing couldn’t have been any better since I am experiencing lower back pain due to my hateful uterus.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong> What is a Back Sac?</strong><span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"> </span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYmkqG5hRU0TmHCye2LKmzK811aVyajjwjQuZqe5xGlfgG7ZOpm21dShO-uXM9CY-yig3xhknsdPXTYU0THfHrAR7N1f_LM3KuG4OINm3HGkEsyBKp3rxFXjGQtGMBn32k9DAiOltP1Am2/s1600/backsac.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYmkqG5hRU0TmHCye2LKmzK811aVyajjwjQuZqe5xGlfgG7ZOpm21dShO-uXM9CY-yig3xhknsdPXTYU0THfHrAR7N1f_LM3KuG4OINm3HGkEsyBKp3rxFXjGQtGMBn32k9DAiOltP1Am2/s320/backsac.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“The Back Sac is a unique back support cushion, designed to better support your spine in <i>any </i>resting position. It has been successful in relieving back and neck pain related to back injury, spinal arthritis, disc injuries, scoliosis and pregnancy!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Back Sac’s unique design uses air to provide the perfect lumbar support whether you are sitting on your couch, at your desk, or in your car! The air travels through the Back Sac when you move, following your spinal curves, creating a dynamic support that no other back cushion can replicate!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Back Sac creates the perfect pillow to support your neck while traveling in a car or an airplane and deflates quickly for easy transport.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It can be used to support your knees when sleeping, or your lumbar curve when performing abdominal exercises. Your school aged kids can recline against it while reading or watching TV. Because of its ability to adjust to fit <i>all</i> body shapes and sizes, the Back Sac can be used by <i>anyone</i> to improve posture and comfort!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I was excited to receive my Back Sac and put it to use using the simple instructions included.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Back Sac is similar to a deflated ball with an inner air bladder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Open the Velcro enclosure, pull out the portion of the bladder with the air value and puff in a few breathes of air (it only took about three for me).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The inner bladder doesn’t need to be completely full of air and with a few tries you will soon find the fullness level you need to give you good lower back support.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Close the valve and Velcro. Presto! You have a back support cushion!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But “the Back Sac </span>design is absolutely unique compared to other back support cushions on the market today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most support cushions are made to fill the spinal curves by molding to the <em><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">average</span></em> person’s neck or low back curve. The Back Sac acknowledges that your spinal curves are probably <em><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">not</span></em> average.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For information on how it works, you can read more information at the <a href="http://backsac.com/">Back Sac Website</a> and become acquainted with Leigh Anne too.</span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">What I personally found was great lower back support.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I habitually sit on the sofa with my laptop and prop my feet on the coffee table (I know, I know, not lady like at all).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This position sinks me into the sofa with no lower back support and I find myself moaning and groaning to get out of that position.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not so with the Back Sac for support.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The same thing happens with my laptop in bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When I place the Back Sac at my spinal curve, it gives me the much needed support that a pillow cannot and I don’t become as stiff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It also makes a great neck cushion for travel and although I haven’t tried it yet, it would probably make my neck much more comfortable if I were driving a long distance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hum, must test that soon!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And oh, how I wish that I had had one while pregnant with both my sons, especially during those last few weeks.<o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Now I have a problem.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t want to give my Back Sac away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want to keep my Back Sac.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I cannot live without my Back Sac!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What’s this blogger to do?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think I’m going to buy a few and give them as (it pains me to say this)…Christmas gifts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I encourage you to do the same.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’ll love it!<o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Thanks for reading, Rosie.</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5595724232262056879.post-13733954985118506312011-08-29T13:29:00.002-04:002011-09-17T22:21:34.648-04:00Boxers Vs. Non-Boxers {Breakaway}<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Why people become steeped into tradition is a mystery to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The small town where I live and the church that I rarely attend live by the mantras “this is how we’ve always done it”, “this is just how it is done”,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“this is the proper way to do it”,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Granted the familiar path is always the easiest path.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You don’t have to think about the path because you know every inch and mile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But is it always the best path for reaching your destination?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are too many scenic routes which could lead us to new, more wonderful destination.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If we encounter the sameness every day, we become stale, disconnected, and ineffective to those outside the box.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But the box is so comfortable! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Neat, tidy and familiar.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With this in mind, I chose to discard my box altogether.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I did it with intent and purpose knowing the risks that I would encounter by losing my cardboard protection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Boxed people never understand the non-boxed and they certainly never get the idea that non-boxers view boxers as stagnated conformist.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When I encounter the boxed people, they treat me like I have leprosy….unclean, unclean, unclean, because I’m living outside the confines of a neat box.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Apparently, this is a source of worry for some and enough reason for others to place me on a prayer list.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why does this bother me?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most people desire the prayers of others and I do too in specific areas of my life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I share those request with only a select few people because I respect the sincerity of their hearts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For anyone to assume they know what is going on in my life, and especially in the lives of my children and then stop one of them to say, “I am praying for your mother and she will be fine” is one of the rudest things I’ve ever heard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What exactly are they praying about concerning me and shouldn't they have been respectful enough to speak with me first?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My son, being the gentleman that he is, thanked the person and proceeded to say, “My mother is fine, she gets what you don’t, but thank you anyway.” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God, I love that child!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wake up sleepy small town!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Although, it’s a beautiful dream, we don’t live in Mayberry anymore for the world is indeed changing.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div align="center"><br />
</div><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="510" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/hKCGBv65w_M?rel=0" width="640"></iframe></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5595724232262056879.post-29940969212244978962011-08-27T16:45:00.002-04:002012-01-02T00:22:18.419-05:00Summer Synopsis AKA What I Did On Summer VacationSo yes, it's been a while since I've written in this space. If anyone in the blog world still lands on this small bit of Internet real estate and reads my pitiful blogging attempts, well, God bless ya!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Me, hubster, boys and dog spent a few quiet days at the beach in June. It was Oscar's first beach trip and he loved it. Unless you're a dog lover, you can't understand how fun it is to watch your fur-baby get as excited as your children regarding vacation. Oscar played in the water, dug in the sand, rode a golf cart, and sniffed other doggies. We enjoyed Oscar's beach excitement as much as the beach! Fun!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">In June, I went to <a href="http://typeaconference.com/">Type-A Parent Conference</a>. This is a local blogging conference held annually in beautiful, artsy downtown Asheville, NC. There I met up with some blogger friends and had a lovely few days with like minded folks. Fabulous, darling! Fabulous! If you're a blogger, consider attending Type-A at some point. It's a relaxed setting and you'll meet some great bloggers from all over the US/Canada. And me!</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Several weeks ago I began taking a <a href="http://www.zumba.com/en-US/about/">Zumba</a> class. Two nights per week I shake my Zumba for a hard sweaty hour. Considering I'm the girl who failed PE in high school (seriously) I'm doing pretty well. Furthermore, I LOVE it and can tell a big difference how I feel physically and emotionally. It's a great stress reliever and I'm reaping a few benefits in the waist, hip and thigh area too. I may even start lifting a few weights to help my bat-wing biceps. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><em>Uterus Update</em></strong> - Regarding my hateful uterus...it's still <strong>HATEFUL</strong>! I'll be seeing my GYN once again in September and may tell him to rip it out! Nuff said on that topic.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>I got glasses! I've been using cheap reading glasses for over a year. A kind friend suggested I have my eyes examined as it seems the #11 between my eyes was becoming more pronounced from all the squinting. Thank goodness for honest friends who give it to me straight!<br />
<strong>True Confessions</strong>: <br />
<ul><li><div style="text-align: justify;">I've not read one single book all summer! I did listen to the "The Help" (Audio CD) and recently saw the movie (so good, go see it, take Kleenex for leaky eyes and wear Depends for a weak bladder).</div></li>
<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><li><div style="text-align: justify;">Work keeps me busy, but honestly, it doesn't feel like work. I've been at the Public Library for eleven years and still enjoy every minute!</div></li>
<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><li><div style="text-align: justify;">My young men go back to school Monday. College and High School, piano and guitar, youth group and basketball keep them VERY busy. They are handsome, kind, talented and funny...but SLOBS! I love them anyway.</div></li>
</ul><div style="text-align: justify;">And now, let me just say...if you are friends with me on Facebook...you already know most of this information plus more....if not, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/#!/ReadingRosie">Friend me on Facebook</a> and share the fun!</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Thanks for reading, Rosie! {Coming soon BackSac product review}</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5595724232262056879.post-86609673047714077882011-07-01T13:31:00.004-04:002012-01-02T00:19:57.230-05:00My Uterus Hates Me<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="border: currentColor; text-align: justify;">For the past year I have been battling uterine fibroids. Uterine fibroids are hateful, non-malignant tumors that grow within the uterine wall. I have eight of these bizarre things growing inside me. EIGHT! You can read about the symptoms of uterine fibroids from the <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/uterine-fibroids/DS00078/DSECTION=symptoms">Mayo Clinic</a> and let me just say I have every freaking symptom listed (plus a few that the good old Mayo is not aware of yet) including, but not limited to, bitchiness and murderous thoughts of family members. On most days the world is a giant chalk board and humanity is scraping their fingers down it all day long. Does that paint a clear portrait of how irritable I am? I am told if I can live with these body growths until after menopause, they usually shrink and symptoms decrease. I am also told the average age for menopause is fifty-one. I'll be forty-six on my birthday. That's five years people! My GYN has given me a few options: (A) Try birth-control pills for a few months; (B) Endometrial ablation wherein they burn the endometrial walls; (C) Partial hysterectomy (taking out the uterus but leaving the cervix and ovaries). I'm on my second round of birth-control pills and thus far have seen no improvement. In fact, some of my symptoms are worse. I've heard from some that the ablation procedure works well for a few months but risks involved with this procedure (though rare) are serious. A partial hysterectomy initially sounded appealing until I began reading on the topic and the sexual side effects that the procedure can cause. I'm getting old, but am not dead. I still enjoy my sexuality so ripping out something that might change that appeals not to me!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Dear readers do you have any experience with this problem? If so, would you please share your experience here with me? I value the opinions and experiences of other women (men too if your wife, mother, sister, girlfriend, etc. has gone through something similar). I'm also open to holistic procedures if you have experience in that area. Any thoughts are welcome.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Thanks for reading, Rosie.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5595724232262056879.post-63981047190454655822011-06-29T18:19:00.000-04:002011-06-29T18:19:46.934-04:00Spring Showers Bring Flowers ~ Wordless Wednesday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5595724232262056879.post-49032238556162280072011-04-18T22:48:00.001-04:002011-05-13T17:38:49.629-04:00Water For Elephants<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=readrosi-20&l=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B0041YKBH8" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" />I recently read Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen. The book was published in 2006 and has crossed my path many times via the circulation desk at the library. After seeing the movie trailer and thinking it was a potential theater experience, I decided to read the book. Having not read Fiction in well over a year, I was skeptical. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">Water for Elephants is not a literary masterpiece but for me it held true entertainment value (more on this in a moment) and painted a visual that I will not soon forget. Few Fiction books do this for me anymore so I was delighted to find myself caught up in the story line and eagerly anticipating my nightly reading. I was sad to see it end, but I must say, the ending was marvelous!</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">Jacob Jankowski is a ninety or ninety-three year old man (he can’t remember which) in a nursing home recalling memories of himself as a young man during the Depression. For three months he travels with the Benzini Brothers Most Spectacular Show on Earth as the veterinarian to their menagerie. Some of the language is crude and graphic scenes linger in the mind; however, I think one should expect this when reading details of life on a circus train. Most scenes, though, are tender and clearly show the heart of a young man and an aged man on a passionate journey. I am hoping the movie is fractionally as good.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicvOZ_8Hv7N3JCLLMdrA2ed_Yo1EcJG1FTBhBqHK3giyt6_6kHhbQFDi41oUrJcV42zBQSsnpcrrIdcEfafbSdqieGBTMOvwxGhz5GGZ2GleHlIVbKhj-GA63nVOM5FlNKAflH9GcR6VWU/s1600/clowndana2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicvOZ_8Hv7N3JCLLMdrA2ed_Yo1EcJG1FTBhBqHK3giyt6_6kHhbQFDi41oUrJcV42zBQSsnpcrrIdcEfafbSdqieGBTMOvwxGhz5GGZ2GleHlIVbKhj-GA63nVOM5FlNKAflH9GcR6VWU/s320/clowndana2.jpg" width="247" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Circus life has always fascinated me and this is likely why the movie trailer caught my eye. Upon doing some book review research and hearing only good things regarding the book, I decided to give it a read and am so glad I did. For me, it brought back memories of a time in my life (1983-1984) when I applied for and was accepted by the Ringling Brothers Clown College in Sarasota, Florida. Yes, you read that correctly! I have attended the Ringling Brothers Circus no less than eight times in my life as a child, youth, young adult, adult or parent. The most memorable time being front row center ring with tight robe walkers balancing precariously over my head and muzzled dancing bears within a few inches of my knees. I’ve seen greats like Gunther Gable Williams, Lou Jacobs and Bello Nock. I made a complete idiot of myself at one performance by stepping into a folding seat in front of me and getting my ankle trapped in a vise like grip, nearly fainting from the pain and cracking my ankle bone in the process. I will always be mesmerized by the costumes, colors, lights, music, animals and performers of the circus! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">So did I go to Clown College? No. Fear and parental consent kept me from pursuing that fleeting dream. But, the clown portrait above is me! Painted by my much older brother in 1985 and hanging in the children’s room at the library, it serves as a reminder of the clown I was and still am at heart. If you look closely, you can find my initials “DR” painted into the folds of the yellow neck piece. Rosie would have been a great clown name don’t you think?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/CiNVZLwHbLc?rel=0" title="YouTube video player" width="640"></iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5595724232262056879.post-21685400000905730282011-03-21T21:36:00.000-04:002011-03-21T21:36:16.599-04:00FBC Belize Mission Trip 2011<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="510" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/17t8nippuuQ?rel=0" title="YouTube video player" width="640"></iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5595724232262056879.post-11504815037165846662011-03-02T18:53:00.000-05:002011-03-02T18:53:07.494-05:00The Star Belly Sneetches<div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;">One of the earliest memories I recall, is going to our town's tiny library. The children's book section in the late 60's consisted mainly of Dr. Seuss and H. A. & Margert Ray books. I was allowed to check out two books; one always being Dr. Seuss. The book was immediately taken home and presented to my much older brother who quickly tucked me close beside him and proceed to read me the zany rhymes produced by the author, all the while adding appropriate character dialect and proper voice inflections to make the verses come alive. Fast forward 40 years...I now work in our town's library. It is no longer the tiny "hole in the wall" but a thriving center of the community. Our children's room is overflowing with fantastic books. Dr. Seuss is still in demand and I often find myself quoting his well loved work. Happy Birthday, Theodor Seuss Geisel! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The following is one of my favorites. To become as wise as a Sneetch, is a worthy goal!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>What is your favorite Dr. Seuss book?</strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;"><strong><em><span><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=readrosi-20&l=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=0394800893" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" /></span>The Sneetches ~ by Dr. Seuss</em></strong></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Sneetches-Other-Stories-Dr-Seuss/dp/0394800893?ie=UTF8&tag=readrosi-20&link_code=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="The Sneetches and Other Stories" height="200" src="http://ws.amazon.com/widgets/q?MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL160_&ASIN=0394800893&tag=readrosi-20" width="147" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Now, the Star-Belly Sneetches had bellies with stars. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">The Plain-Belly Sneetches had none upon thars.<br />
Those stars weren’t so big. They were really so small. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">You might think such a thing wouldn’t matter at all.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;">But, because they had stars, all the Star-Belly Sneetches</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;">Would brag, “We’re the best kind of Sneetch on the beaches.”</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;">With their snoots in the air, they would sniff and they’d snort</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;">“We’ll have nothing to do with the Plain-Belly sort!”</div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;">And, whenever they met some, when they were out walking,</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;">They’d hike right on past them without even talking.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;">When the Star-Belly children went out to play ball,</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;">Could a Plain Belly get in the game? Not at all.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;">You only could play if your bellies had stars</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;">And the Plain-Belly children had none upon thars.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">When the Star Belly Sneetches had frankfurter roasts</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Or picnics or parties or marshmallow toasts,</div>They never invited the Plain-Belly Sneetches<br />
They left them out cold, in the dark of the beaches.<br />
They kept them away. Never let them come near.<br />
And that’s how they treated them year after year.<br />
<br />
Then ONE day, it seems while the Plain-Belly Sneetches<br />
Were moping and doping alone on the beaches,<br />
Just sitting there wishing their bellies had stars,<br />
A stranger zipped up in the strangest of cars!<br />
<br />
“My friends”, he announced in a voice clear and clean,<br />
“My name is Sylvester McMonkey McBean. <br />
And I’ve heard of Your troubles. I’ve heard you’re unhappy. <br />
But I can fix that, I’m the Fix-It-Up Chappie. <br />
<br />
I’ve come here to help you. <br />
I have what you need. <br />
And my prices are low. And I work with great speed. <br />
And my work is one hundred per cent guaranteed!”<br />
<br />
Then, quickly, Sylvester McMonkey McBean<br />
Put together a very peculiar machine.<br />
And he said, “You want stars like a Star-Belly Sneetch? <br />
My friends, you can have them for three dollars each!”<br />
“Just pay me your money and hop right aboard!”<br />
<br />
So they clambered inside. Then the big machine roared.<br />
And it klonked. And it bonked. And it jerked. And it berked.<br />
And it bopped them about. But the thing really worked!<br />
When the Plain-Belly Sneetches popped out, they had stars!<br />
They actually did. They had stars upon thars!<br />
<br />
Then they yelled at the ones who had stars at the start,<br />
“We’re still the best Sneetches and they are the worst.<br />
But now, how in the world will we know”, they all frowned,<br />
“If which kind is what, or the other way round?”<br />
<br />
Then up came McBean with a very sly wink. <br />
And he said, “Things are not quite as bad as you think. <br />
So you don’t know who’s who. That is perfectly true.<br />
But come with me, friends. Do you know what I’ll do? <br />
I’ll make you, again, the best Sneetches on the beaches.<br />
And all it will cost you is ten dollars eaches.”<br />
<br />
“Belly stars are no longer in style”, said McBean.<br />
“What you need is a trip through my Star-Off Machine. <br />
This wondrous contraption will take OFF your stars <br />
So you won’t look like Sneetches that have them on thars.”<br />
And that handy machine working very precisely<br />
Removed all the stars from their tummies quite nicely.<br />
<br />
Then, with snoots in the air, they paraded about. <br />
And they opened their beaks and they let out a shout, <br />
“We know who is who! Now there Isn’t a doubt. <br />
The best kind of Sneetches are Sneetches without!”<br />
<br />
Then, of course, those with stars got all frightfully mad.<br />
To be wearing a star was frightfully bad. <br />
Then, of course, old Sylvester McMonkey McBean <br />
invited THEM into his Star-Off Machine.<br />
<br />
Then, of course from THEN on, as you probably guess,<br />
Things really got into a horrible mess.<br />
All the rest of that day, on those wild screaming beaches,<br />
The Fix-It-Up Chappie kept fixing up Sneetches.<br />
<br />
Off again! On again! In again! Out again!<br />
Through the machines they raced round and about again,<br />
Changing their stars every minute or two. They kept paying money.<br />
They kept running through until the Plain nor the Star-Bellies knew<br />
Whether this one was that one or that one was this one. Or which one<br />
Was what one or what one was who.<br />
<br />
Then, when every last cent of their money was spent,<br />
The Fix-It-Up Chappie packed up. And he went. <br />
And he laughed as he drove In his car up the beach, <br />
“They never will learn. No. You can’t Teach a Sneetch!”<br />
<br />
But McBean was quite wrong. I’m quite happy to say.<br />
That the Sneetches got really quite smart on that day.<br />
The day they decided that Sneetches are Sneetches.<br />
And no kind of Sneetch is the best on the beaches.<br />
That day, all the Sneetches forgot about stars and whether<br />
They had one, or not, upon thars.<br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5595724232262056879.post-32292285486807322742011-02-24T13:25:00.007-05:002011-02-28T11:43:18.970-05:00UPDATE!!! Veripur is Verigood<div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Veripur-Hand-Sanitizer-Moisturizer-Unscented/dp/B004MMW0RI?ie=UTF8&tag=readrosi-20&link_code=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Veripur Hand Sanitizer Moisturizer 3 oz Unscented" src="http://ws.amazon.com/widgets/q?MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL160_&ASIN=B004MMW0RI&tag=readrosi-20" /></a><strong><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=readrosi-20&l=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B004MMW0RI" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" />A GREAT BIG THANK YOU TO VERIPUR!!!</strong> Mr. Fedex arrived at my back door Saturday with a box of Veripur Hand Sanitizer courtesy <a href="http://www.lippetaylor.com/about.html">Lippe Taylor</a>. This box of Veripur will be forwarded with my guys to Belize and put to use by a small medical clinic serving an impoverished area. {More on that later}. Once again, thank you for your wonderful public relations!<br />
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Part of what makes blogging conferences great are the sponsors. Sponsors help keep the cost of conferences low and they recognize the power of social media. Behind the fingers of 700 women bloggers lay vast opportunities for advertising; this ensures good swag. I normally don't promote brands on my blog because I'm just not into that, but today I make an exception and I'm not even being compensated {although I would love to have some sample tubes to pass along...hint, hint}.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">Hidden deep within the recesses of my swag bag was a magic tube of hand sanitizing lotion. I rarely use hand sanitizers because most contain alcohol which tends to dry out my hands and makes my skin peel. I want to kill the germs people, not the top layer of epidermis. This tube was labeled Veripur. Upon further investigation, Veripur is a new product exclusively available at Walgreens. Oh how I wish I had known about this product prior to entering the plagued dome. I would have slathered my hands down with this moisturizing, germ killing product every few hours and conquered Mr. Flu. This tube of lightly scented gold makes me believe I'm pampering my hands instead of killing nasty little germs. Reality is, I'm doing both and that is a lovely product bonus. Please visit the <a href="http://veripur.com/discover/">Veripur Web-Site</a> to learn more, watch their YouTube video below, then go purchase their fabulous product. Worth. Every. Penny.<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="295" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/hXvAKUfmThQ?fs=1" style="height: 295px; width: 593px;" width="480"></iframe><br />
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Beyond Veripur being an exceptional product, a representative behind Veripur was a pleasure to meet also. He mingled with the bloggers outside of the work venue to build relationships. Because of his extrovert personality, my girl friends and I had the privilege of dining late one evening with <a href="http://www.davidbinkowski.com/about-2/">Mr. David Binkowski</a> and a few other fabulous people. A funny guy, a good sport, and a joy to be around, David is the real deal when it comes to digital marketing. Thanks, David, for making the Beverlies feel special and for entertaining us with your wit and charm. You Rock!<br />
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(Photo by Jenny Lawrence Viars)<br />
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<strong></strong></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5595724232262056879.post-23166720150679684332011-02-13T18:44:00.000-05:002011-02-13T18:44:17.619-05:00Portrait of Love<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFzm0MIBstAGtBXUBBOWHRQOpfWpsEaL_EPKac1yNEN0qIUvelSFAmt7eMU7VOTjbcEuqKmEVK4T0WddoBXU7av4aBYznTWBIFip1sp14dX6ZXtUh_X5CpqXRTkU-pOAD3zygNOoKlPJha/s1600/pink+starlight+lily.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFzm0MIBstAGtBXUBBOWHRQOpfWpsEaL_EPKac1yNEN0qIUvelSFAmt7eMU7VOTjbcEuqKmEVK4T0WddoBXU7av4aBYznTWBIFip1sp14dX6ZXtUh_X5CpqXRTkU-pOAD3zygNOoKlPJha/s200/pink+starlight+lily.jpg" width="200" /></a>The doorbell rang. She wasn’t expecting anyone.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Pensively she peaked out the window. A smile curved her lips.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Opening the door she forced back the tears.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">He tipped his derby hat. Always the gentleman. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">“My dear, these are for you.”</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Pink starlight lilies were her favorite. Not red roses. He remembered.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">“I was thinking of you and thought these might brighten your day, my love.”</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">She invited him into their home and took the flowers from his wrinkled hand.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">She admired their beauty and placed them in a vase.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">She slipped her arms around his waist and buried her face in his neck.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">After fifty-three years, his scent still brought her peace.</div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">They clung to each other and cried only for a moment.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">“I still miss him so much,” she said. “As do I, love. As do I,” he replied. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">He stroked her gray hair.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Twenty years ago their son had died. Already twenty years.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">His gesture of love was different every year. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Always tender. Always meaningful.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">“I love you, my dear, even more than last year,” he whispered. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">“I love you too and even more next year,” she whispered back.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5595724232262056879.post-70540975181521584452011-02-10T21:43:00.001-05:002011-02-11T11:30:40.690-05:00What I Learned @#Blissdom 2011 and Other Odd Facts {All In Good Fun}<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It is no secret that I recently spent four bliss-filled days in Nashville, TN, at <a href="http://blissdomconference.com/">Blissdom 2011</a>, the premiere blogging conference of the Southeast. This event was truly an incredible experience and an amazing opportunity to learn about the blogging community.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I am a people observer by nature. I have never attended any event where the main attraction held my attention for a long period of time. My senses always drift to those around me. I am neither an extrovert nor an introvert. My personality lays somewhere between the two (I am an <a href="http://www.mypersonality.info/personality-types/infj/">INFJ</a> on the Myer-Briggs chart if that tells you anything) I am in the tiny one-percent. An oddball. Because of this, my observations at Blissdom and what I gained from the experience is probably a wide gulf from another’s perspective. This post is meant to neither inflate nor deflate any particular group. These are simply my observations. Maybe I should have studied Sociology in college rather than Computer Science.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Reading Rosie’s Blogger Personality Assessment</strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Diva</strong> bloggers are the obvious power group. They walk into a room and demand attention by their actions. They are the “everybody look at me and take in my awesomeness” women and just know the world is a better place because they exist and honestly it probably does. They are confident, classy, stars who deserve <strong><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z0XAI-PFQcA">R E S P E C T</a></strong> for their work. This group can sometimes be annoying but they usually make me smile. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Wannabe Diva</strong> bloggers are a temperamental group. They wannbe divas badly, so they pout, stomp their feet and get angry if you do not recognize or acknowledge their “not quite there yet awesomeness.” Easily insulted, this group seems to be living in a high school cheerleading daze. It is fun to mess with them and pretend you have never heard of them.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Faith</strong> bloggers are lovely. They are usually dressed and groomed neatly and appear very organized. Easily spotted due to their pious aura, they travel in groups of the same species rarely speaking to anyone who may appear unholy due to their hair style or clothing choice. Do not turn your back on a faith bloggers lest you be crucified.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Edgy</strong> bloggers are easy to spot. They are hip, funny, colorful, opinionated, loud and adventuresome to be around. Fun group. {Note: Faith bloggers and Edgy bloggers do not mix well}.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Niche</strong> bloggers include coupon queens, green living, foodie, brand pushing, decorating, solely focused savvy business mommy bloggers. They talk fast, know their elevator pitch, and are extremely rehearsed sales people. If you are not a morning person, try not to get cornered by a niche blogger. You will find yourself skulking to a quiet corner to suck your thumb after the encounter.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>No-Niche</strong> bloggers can relate to everyone. You will find them a funny and well read; sloppy and finely dressed; unorganized and skillful, home makers and highly educated group. There may actually be a Diva in the group, but she will appear incognito and you will instantly bond. No-Nichers are women of Faith but not self-righteous; Edgy but not uncouth. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Newbie</strong> bloggers are easy to spot. Look for the deer-in-the-headlight gaze. You will feel protective of these lambs and want to pull them away from the slaughter-house (Wannabe Divas) as quickly as possible. If a No-Niche blogger can rescue a Newbie early enough, they can have a great influence and possibly lead her away from Niche blogging. I mean, does the world really need another toilet paper blogger?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Under these definitions, I would be classified as a No-Niche Edgy Faith Blogger (NNEFB).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">While the above is meant to be humorous, I can truthfully say that blogging is a common denominator and a great thing. The power of words can bring hundreds of women together, form solid friendships and gradually create a new community. It is the power of women-kind. Our ability to cry, curse, sing, dance, mourn, celebrate, hug, accept and scorn one another creates energy unlike any other. I feel loved, accepted and understood when I am in their midst.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>All I Really Need To Know, I Learned @#Blissdom:</strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Share with a friend.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Smile until it hurts.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Don’t worry about your clothes.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Comfortable shoes are valuable.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Speak first.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Laugh at jokes. (Except your own)</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Tweet when told.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Choose grace.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Listen more than you speak.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Give more than you take.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Hug a newbie.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Don’t jiggle another’s boobage. (Trust me)</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Be salt and light.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Above all, be yourself.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5595724232262056879.post-78894376916722076842011-02-04T19:25:00.000-05:002011-02-04T19:25:22.808-05:00All I Gained From Blissdom Was The Flu! {Hardly}<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=readrosi-20&l=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B004LS6U4C" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" /></span><span><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=readrosi-20&l=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=1592403352" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" /></span>My intention was to write a recap post my first day home from <a href="http://blissdomconference.com/">Blissdom 2011</a>. Unfortunately, on the drive home Saturday, I realized I was being attacked by the now infamous Blissdom Plague. Mr. Flu made a lovely appearance at the conference to shake everyone’s hand. He’s a gentleman that way, albeit sneaky. He knocked me off my feet, literally for the week, and I am just now able to put my thoughts together.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">I wasn’t a conference newbie this year. This was a good thing because I was more oriented to the venue. Last year I traveled and stayed alone; this year, I traveled and stayed with three fabulous women bloggers. God knew I needed these ladies in my life and I am so thankful for each of them. I’m thirteen years their senior - a mother-hen figure {yeah right}! I love these ladies. Hey soul sisters…hugs and kisses from Beverly!</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ6CCzuBqkQhHcFgEBe_guMNTldtkuwzn6k4rXhOwtYSYFVdfYBY2SMMl3pZklw0j7W_MM7NPk0nTc-xTLFcu04BUvl1M97OdkZMQXM3dP5vAmEUYYHQzGzal0fFvKuO1I97AUahb9NKfz/s1600/Rockinthehats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ6CCzuBqkQhHcFgEBe_guMNTldtkuwzn6k4rXhOwtYSYFVdfYBY2SMMl3pZklw0j7W_MM7NPk0nTc-xTLFcu04BUvl1M97OdkZMQXM3dP5vAmEUYYHQzGzal0fFvKuO1I97AUahb9NKfz/s400/Rockinthehats.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">{I made my dress for this event and the hats belonged to Jenny's Grandmother)</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">The team at <a href="http://blissfullydomestic.com/">Blissfully Domestic</a> coordinates an awesome conference. They are superb at their bliss and Gaylord Opryland Hotel pulled out their very best linens and silverware {that’s important in the South}. Bloggers are treated like royalty during this four day event. I cannot begin to tell you the details that went into this affair but it is safe to say it was fine-tuned in such a way, they had me believing I could wish it and it would appear. Awesomeness wrapped in awesome and topped with a layer of awesome and few awesome sprinkles. Really!</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">It was worth every cough, sniffle, chill and body ache and if I had to catch the flu, this was “the” place.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">If you’re a blogger, put Blissdom 2012 on your bucket list!!!!!</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Thought-Was-Just-isnt-Perfectionism/dp/1592403352?ie=UTF8&tag=readrosi-20&link_code=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="I Thought It Was Just Me (but it isn't): Telling the Truth About Perfectionism, Inadequacy, and Power" src="http://ws.amazon.com/widgets/q?MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL160_&ASIN=1592403352&tag=readrosi-20" /></a>Opening keynote <a href="http://www.brenebrown.com/">Brene’ Brown</a> was truly an inspiration and touched on a subject that all could relate: SHAME. Sounds slightly depressing doesn’t it? Not in the least! Everyone, at some point “wants to hide their struggles and protect themselves from shame, judgment, criticism and blame by seeking safety in pretending and perfection.” We all do! In her book “I Thought It Was Just Me (but it isn’t)”, Brene’ writes, “It’s time to reclaim the gifts of imperfection - <strong>Courage</strong> to be real, the <strong>Compassion</strong> we need to love ourselves and others, and the <strong>Connection</strong> that gives true purpose and meaning to life. These are the gifts that bring love, laughter, gratitude, empathy and joy into our lives.” I bought the book, because Lord knows I need to learn the <strong>3Cs</strong>.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Scott-Stratten-UnMarketing-Marketing-Hardcover/dp/B004LS6U4C?ie=UTF8&tag=readrosi-20&link_code=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="by Scott Stratten UnMarketing: Stop Marketing. Start Engaging(text only)[Hardcover]2010" src="http://ws.amazon.com/widgets/q?MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL160_&ASIN=B004LS6U4C&tag=readrosi-20" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"> Closing keynote was the master of Twitter himself, <a href="http://www.un-marketing.com/blog/">Scott Stratten</a>, better known as @UnMarketing. “Stop Marketing, Start Engaging,” is his mantra. Scott’s a nice guy (we’re on a first name basis). Seriously, he’s a down-to-earth, never met a stranger, super-talented man. Funny too! I bought his book just because. It’s autographed. Did I mention he is handsome, even in pink, and can bust-a-move on the dance floor? Yep, that would be him. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">Chock-full between these two fabulous folks, were <a href="http://www.askmelissapeterman.com/">Melissa Peterman</a>, <a href="http://www.michellebranch.com/">Michelle Branch</a>, <a href="http://www.matkearney.com/">Mat Kearney</a>, <a href="http://www.chrismannmusic.com/2011/02/flash-mob-virginity-american-idols-raisins-michelle-branch-blissdom-2011/">Chris Mann</a> and <a href="http://www.crystalbowersox.com/home/">Crystal Bowersox</a>. Talented, beautiful people there to entertain a wee little blogger like moi.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">And the sponsors: ConAgra Foods, Freschetta, Quaker, Jockey, Johnson&Johnson, Gain, Intel, Blue Bunny, GE, Veripur, Tide, Kellogg’s, Hallmark, Red Lobster, Bounce...on and on and on…<strong>the swag alone was worth the flu!</strong></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">But what did I really learn about my blogging bliss?</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">"All I Really Need To Know, I Learned At Blissdom" ~ Coming Soon!</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5595724232262056879.post-84784948886377686892011-01-16T20:49:00.001-05:002011-01-16T20:53:04.287-05:00Two Baby Boys....God's Perfect Plan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">A mother of seven children living in North Carolina....</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> Lead by God decides to adopt an eighth child....</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> Adoption papers filed....</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;">Birth mother in Nevada decides to give her baby up for adoption....</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> Contact and arrangements are made between the two women....</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> Adoption mother flies to Nevada in December for the birth....</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;">Beautiful baby boy is born....love at first sight....for both mothers....</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> Birth mother decides to keep her baby boy....</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> Adoption mother, heartbroken, believes God has a plan....</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;">Another baby boy born a few weeks earlier with feeding issues....</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> Relinquished by birth mother for adoption....</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> Placed into the arms of his adoption mother from North Carolina....</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;">God's plan is perfect....</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> I'm blessed to know the adoption mother from North Carolina...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> Read her story at <a href="http://www.stringbean17.com/">stringbean17</a>....</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5595724232262056879.post-11598313710663721382011-01-12T20:37:00.000-05:002011-01-12T20:37:02.777-05:00Blues, Books and Blissdom<div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsE-2JZEYW2uuQhlRS0mDpV8D68jWgHPFQgUSVpE90ZkG-AqELZhDwQYv4tOYQ9QS9PqhY-Q6m5piBC7Lls4FM-IDkO-OVJ5J74dEaX6zGvL5vUXShmgUSYjTduZYf1edi9SdhQtjZ0E_n/s1600/animals_birds_300x225_4379_-_blue_jay_or_kingfisher_in_winter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsE-2JZEYW2uuQhlRS0mDpV8D68jWgHPFQgUSVpE90ZkG-AqELZhDwQYv4tOYQ9QS9PqhY-Q6m5piBC7Lls4FM-IDkO-OVJ5J74dEaX6zGvL5vUXShmgUSYjTduZYf1edi9SdhQtjZ0E_n/s200/animals_birds_300x225_4379_-_blue_jay_or_kingfisher_in_winter.jpg" width="200" /></a>I thought after the new year I might have more motivation for my blog....so far, WRONG! Apart from work, my days are filled with routine household activities leaving me with little inspiration to write. I thrive on routine but not writing isn't good for my state of mind. My thoughts become jumbled and unorganized and I can't concentrate on any task. Maybe it is due to a decreased lack of a vital hormone or lack of Vitamin D due to sunlight deprivation. I've been going to the tanning bed a few times per week to soak in artificial light but it doesn't seem to help my lethargy. The cold temperature, snow covered ground and grey skies add to my unproductive state. Life feels blue and bleak in the winter. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I've been reading bits and pieces of non-fiction books. I can't seem to read any fiction right now. Two of my favorite fiction authors (<span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Her-Daughters-Dream-Martas-Legacy/dp/1414334095?ie=UTF8&tag=readrosi-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Francine Rivers</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=readrosi-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=1414334095" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" /></span> and <span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Company-Others-Father-Tim-Novel/dp/0670022128?ie=UTF8&tag=readrosi-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Jan Karon</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=readrosi-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=0670022128" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" /></span>) have new books out and I am not interested in reading either of them. What's up with that? Three books I am working my way through (<span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Handmade-Marketplace-Locally-Globally-Line/dp/1603424776?ie=UTF8&tag=readrosi-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">The Handmade Marketplace by Kari Chapin</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=readrosi-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=1603424776" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" /></span>), (<span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Comfort-Trap-Youre-Riding-Horse/dp/0670858471?ie=UTF8&tag=readrosi-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">The Comfort Trap or, What If You're Riding a Dead Horse? by Judith Sills</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=readrosi-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=0670858471" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" /></span>) and (<span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Committed-ebook/dp/B002VUFKG6?ie=UTF8&tag=readrosi-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Committed, A Skeptic Makes Peace With Marriage by Elizabeth Gilbert</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=readrosi-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B002VUFKG6" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" /></span>), are proving to be worth my time. I go through stages of wanting to be aware of new ideas, not that I'll agree with them, I just want to learn. I'm constantly looking for ways to challenge my thought pattern. It's a complicated process that I can't explain simply because I don't fully understand it myself. I do know that indulging in the same conversation on the same topic with the same people week after week becomes dull and annoying. I yearn for new experiences and have found when I stifle that yearning, I begin to suffocate. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Two weeks from today I'll be attending <a href="http://blissdomconference.com/">Blissdom '11</a> in Nashville, Tennessee. Blissdom is a social-media mega conference. I attended this conference last year by myself on a fluke not knowing anyone or what to expect. As it turned out, I connected with some fantastic women with whom I've formed solid friendships over the last year. This year, I'll be traveling to Nashville with <a href="http://www.sweetsadiemarie.com/">Megan from Sweet Sadie Marie</a>. We will be meeting up with <a href="http://www.great-little-stories.com/">Jenny from Great Little Stories</a> and <a href="http://www.notesfromthegardenspot.blogspot.com/">Jessica from Notes From The Garden Spot</a> and maybe a couple more (I've been promised less than 30 in our room) at the Opryland Hotel. There we will join nearly 500 others to Facebook, Tweet, and Blog our way through a fabulous three days. Scott Stratten @UnMarketing will be the opening keynote. I'm quite excited about that as he was one of the first I began following on Twitter. He also has a great book out <span><span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/UnMarketing-Stop-Marketing-Start-Engaging/dp/047061787X?ie=UTF8&tag=readrosi-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank"></a><span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/UnMarketing-Stop-Marketing-Start-Engaging/dp/047061787X?ie=UTF8&tag=readrosi-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">UnMarketing: Stop Marketing, Start Engaging</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=readrosi-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=047061787X" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" /></span>. <img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=readrosi-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=047061787X" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important;" width="1" /></span></span> If you're a social media/blogger junkie and you've never attended a conference, I encourage you locate one and attend. You'll find others who speak your "language" and totally get why you choose to share a part of your life to the world. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Thanks for reading, Rosie.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Photo courtesy ttcolli photobucket.com</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5595724232262056879.post-61355356942446142552011-01-03T11:56:00.000-05:002011-01-03T11:56:23.423-05:00Fluff And Nonsense<div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Can I just say, I AM THRILLED THE HOLIDAYS ARE OVER! I don't think there is anything that causes me more anxiety than the holidays. From Thanksgivings until the New Year is one perpetual party. I don't like the pressuring commercials on television or the silly Christmas songs (I Want A Hippopotmaus for Christmas ???) that are played everywhere I go. I find myself wanting to stay home, pull the shades and cover my head until it is all over! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Don't misunderstand...I love the concept of Thanksgiving...Gratitude to the One who deserves our Thanks; I love Christmas and its significance to the Birth of Christ. I even like the magic of Santa Claus. It is just all the other junk that society has allowed to creep into the celebration and the political correctness that the media believes it should impose upon me that I have come to detest.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The older I get, the more I want to simplify the season. I didn't send out Christmas cards this year or a family newsletter. I didn't bake myself silly because my family does not need the sugar. I did not buy a gift for everyone I come in contact with on a daily basis. And I chose not to feel guilty.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">On the other hand, the gifts I gave, I gave out of love, not obligation. The food that I prepared for my family was hearty and comforting to share on the bitter cold days. I tired to keep my spirit fresh and happy (to those who allowed me). Yet, despite my best efforts, I didn't please everyone. This shouldn't be surprising. Everyone has their own expectations as to what the holidays should be. I call this "visions of sugarplums". When expectations aren't met, the let-down can be huge. This has happened to me in the past and I think that is why I've changed my idea of what the holidays should look like for my immediate family. Simplicity. All the other is just fluff and nonsense.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Thanks for reading, Rosie.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5595724232262056879.post-150338594773054142010-12-02T00:21:00.001-05:002010-12-02T01:10:16.817-05:00Decking The Halls<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0b0GkHqaKdxmIJgyN9IKyqsvS9cBqoc53ntVsG0mPiFxhjjZ3UXaM5MDqD9eQ0mBGpDfJ3dyBZphJWE7rfDhFemG-4XRZ75Ip1Sa_ifDLgDBEA49HCfIsK3tp2XomwMdoR1QdtCM_6xWw/s1600/cosmo3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0b0GkHqaKdxmIJgyN9IKyqsvS9cBqoc53ntVsG0mPiFxhjjZ3UXaM5MDqD9eQ0mBGpDfJ3dyBZphJWE7rfDhFemG-4XRZ75Ip1Sa_ifDLgDBEA49HCfIsK3tp2XomwMdoR1QdtCM_6xWw/s400/cosmo3.jpg" width="178" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">I can't believe the calendar says December 1, 2010! It seems like I just put the 2009 Christmas decorations away a few weeks ago and here I am already pulling them out again. Where does the time go?</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">I have been sewing tons lately. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">Here is a photo of an apron I made recently. I totally adore the style and colors. The material reminds me of the cathedral window quilt pattern {a quilt that I love but would NEVER have the patience to make}.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">There is a certain homey feel to this apron yet it has a modern flair. I call it Cosmopolitan which has absolutely nothing to do with cranberry juice and vodka...Nothing!</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">Although, there would be nothing wrong with drinking a Cosmo while wearing this Cosmopolitan. But I wouldn't know anything about that. Really.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">So, December 1, 2010, finds me gearing up for Christmas and I will probably be "decking my halls" this weekend. I'm just giddy with excitement. Can you tell? Fa la la la la...</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">Thanks for reading, Rosie.<br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5595724232262056879.post-22065795425419372602010-11-18T09:10:00.000-05:002010-11-18T09:10:45.549-05:0030 Days of Thanks Living ~ A New Modem<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglT0GzU2X0VzlGotx03YknSZmKYyTwsrV2Xhg_g-xZcPg7uGTtyLh5QpEBRNKjtIVyN7SAXNhTQ06EOFcR5JsWIZUBOKXsxqkdXcqfNA20LoPE1Xe_DwLkjvobB4yjL2pxrLnfj45BsFgR/s1600/thanksliving.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" nx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglT0GzU2X0VzlGotx03YknSZmKYyTwsrV2Xhg_g-xZcPg7uGTtyLh5QpEBRNKjtIVyN7SAXNhTQ06EOFcR5JsWIZUBOKXsxqkdXcqfNA20LoPE1Xe_DwLkjvobB4yjL2pxrLnfj45BsFgR/s400/thanksliving.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">November 1, officially kicks off the Holiday Season in my world. My thoughts tend to lean toward thankfulness in November. Thanksgiving is my favorite Holiday because, for the most part, it still remains non commercialized and lends itself toward personal reflection. From time to time we all need to reflect on those things for which we are most thankful and live our daily lives accordingly. To that end, I have decided to create a meme for November called "30 Days of Thanks Living." Everyday in November, I will post about something for which I am thankful under my <a href="http://www.readingrosie.com/p/thanks-living.html">"Thanks Living"</a> tab. It may be in different forms such as a photo, music, art, poems, etc., but it will always be from my heart.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">You can participate with me by either leaving a comment or writing a post on your own blog and linking it below. The Linky Tool will be open the entire month of November and you can add your daily Thanks Living link as you please. Feel free to use the above photo on your blog and be sure to link back to me on your post so that others can find "30 Days of Thanks Living" and join. Please be considerate and do not link to anything inappropriate. It will be deleted.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">If you have any questions about how to link, please e-mail me at <a href="mailto:RosieReads@gmail.com">RosieReads@gmail.com</a>. I'll be in touch right away.<br />
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I look forward to reading and being blessed by Thanks Living hearts this month.<br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5595724232262056879.post-69969968194552197812010-10-30T22:28:00.000-04:002010-10-30T22:28:47.602-04:00Disinfecting or Discipling?<div style="text-align: right;"><iframe align="left" frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=readrosi-20&o=1&p=8&l=bpl&asins=1601422210&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="align: left; height: 245px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 5px; width: 131px;"></iframe>Have you ever felt the urgency that you MUST share something or pop?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: right;">Finally! Finally! A book has been written that states what I consider to be a clear portrait of the church today! What I couldn't define in my own mind with my own words has been beautifully defined by a young man named David Platt.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: right;">This book makes me want to dance a jig and yell, "See, I'm NOT crazy! Some one else sees dead churches." {Don't judge me} LOL!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: right;">We are disinfecting instead of discipling. Please do not grow weary with my book quotes. It is just that I read so much. Words and ideas that touch my soul need to be shared or I'll burst. That statement is no less true for the explanation this young author writes in his book <strong><em>Radical: Taking Back Your Faith From The American Dream</em>. </strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><br />
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<blockquote><div style="text-align: justify;">Disinfecting Christians from the world involves isolating followers of Christ in a spiritual safe-deposit box called the church building and teaching them to be good. Success in the church is defined by how big a building you have to house all the Christians, and the goal is to gather as many people as possible for a couple of hours each week in that place where we are isolated and insulated from the realities of the world around us. When we gather at the building, we learn to be good. Being good is defined by what we avoid in the world. We are holy because of what we don't participate in (and we may be the only organization in the world defining success by what we don't do). We live decent lives in decent homes with decent jobs and decent families as decent citizens. We are decent church members with little impact on the world.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Discipling is much different. It involves propelling Christians into the world to risk their lives for the sake of others. The world becomes the focus and success is gauged by not how many we can get into our buildings but on how many are leaving our buildings to take on the world...all of a sudden, holiness is defined by what we <strong>do</strong> instead of what we do not.</div></blockquote><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><object height="385" width="640"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/AZfC7vAbte4?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/AZfC7vAbte4?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="640" height="385"></embed></object></div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">How many Christians do you know who live like this? I suspect not nearly enough.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">To be continued...<br />
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</div><div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5595724232262056879.post-7503487223141918382010-10-26T22:54:00.000-04:002010-10-26T22:54:02.469-04:00Stained Glass Masquerade<div style="text-align: justify;">God has a way of connecting people at the right time and place {He's GREAT that way}! Thank you friends (you know who you are and I hope you are reading this) for suggesting this song by Casting Crowns. It is perfect. Speak <strong>BOLDLY</strong> dear ones for you are not alone.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/grRnCSAzwuQ?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/grRnCSAzwuQ?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">"Would it set me free if I dared to let you see the truth behind the person that you imagine me to be?<br />
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Would your arms be open or would you walk away?<br />
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Would the love of Jesus be enough to make you stay?" <br />
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Casting Crowns<br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5595724232262056879.post-13947660072574475112010-10-24T14:14:00.001-04:002010-10-24T14:34:54.263-04:00The Answer To The Question<div style="text-align: justify;"><iframe align="left" frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=readrosi-20&o=1&p=8&l=bpl&asins=1400202752&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="align: left; height: 245px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 5px; width: 131px;"></iframe>Last week I wrote a post called <a href="http://www.readingrosie.com/2010/10/gospel-of-ideas.html">The Gospel Of Ideas</a>. I shared an excerpt from the book "Searching For God Knows What" by Donald Miller wherein he posed a question to the students of the Bible class he was teaching. I want to follow-up on that post and share Mr. Miller's excerpt from the same book to answer the question.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><blockquote><div style="text-align: right;">"The story bears repeating: I presented a gospel to Christian Bible college students and left out <b>Jesus</b>. Nobody noticed, even when I asked them to think very hard about what it was I had left out. To a culture that believes they go to heaven based on whether they are morally pure, or that they understand some theological ideas or that they are very spiritual, Jesus is completely unnecessary. At best, He is an afterthought, a technicality by which we become morally pure, or a subject of which we know, or a founding father of our woo-woo spirituality. These students loved Jesus very much, and they were terrific kids whom I loved being with, it is just that when they thought of the gospel, they thought of the message in terms of a series of thoughts or principles, not in mysterious relational dynamics. The least important of the ideas, to this class, was knowing Jesus; the least important of the ideas was the one that is RELATIONAL. The gospel of Jesus, then, mistakenly assumed by this class, is something different from Jesus himself."</div></blockquote><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Sometimes I think churches have reduced this relationship to a formulistic equation. A+B+C = Salvation. Admit, Believe, Confess and you are Heaven bound! I know a lot of Christians who adhere to this formula, yet do not seem to know Jesus himself. I also know many morally good people who see Christ as unnecessary. I encounter these two scenarios almost every day of my life. Both make me sad. Both spark anger. Both cause me to speak with holy boldness (thanks CM). And I believe both are what caused me to step away from church and concentrate on knowing Jesus better. I believe that Jesus is the only way to God. The book of Romans is clear on this subject; faith in Christ is necessary for salvation. I also believe salvation does not end with a formula. We are not called to stay in our holy huddles, pat ourselves on the back, and be comfortable in our chosen pew. Actually, Jesus us told us to do the exact opposite and quiet honestly, I am weary of living a safe, comfortable, lukewarm type of life. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: right;"><iframe align="left" frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=readrosi-20&o=1&p=8&l=bpl&asins=1434768511&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="align: left; height: 245px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 5px; width: 131px;"></iframe>The last few months I have taken an honest look at my life and what I see in myself is exactly what Francis Chan outlines in his book "Crazy Love"...</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: right;">"Lukewarm people:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: right;">...attend church fairly regularly. It is what is expected of them, what they believe good Christians do, so they go.</div><div style="text-align: right;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: right;">...give money to charity and to the church...as long as it doesn't impinge on their standard of living.</div><div style="text-align: right;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: right;">...tend to choose what is popular over what is right when they are in conflict. They desire to fit in both at church and outside of church; they care more about what people think of their actions than what God thinks of their hearts and lives.</div><div style="text-align: right;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: right;">...don't want to be saved from their sins, they want to be saved from the penalty of their sins.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: right;">...are moved by stories about people who do radical things for Christ, yet they do not act.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: right;">...rarely share their faith with neighbors, coworkers or friends.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: right;">...gauge their morality or goodness by comparing themselves to the secular world.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: right;">...say they love Jesus and He is a part of their lives. But only a part.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: right;">...love God, but not with all their heart, soul and strength.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: right;">...love others but do not seek to love others as much as they love themselves and mostly focus their love on those who with who they connect. Their love is highly conditional, selective and generally comes with strings attached.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: right;">...think about life on earth much more often than eternity.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: right;">...are thankful for their luxuries and comforts, and rarely consider trying to give as much as possible to the poor. Untold numbers feel called to minister to the rich; very few feel called to minister to the poor.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: right;">...do whatever is necessary to keep themselves from feeling too guilty. They do the bare minimum to be "good enough" without it requiring too much of them.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: right;">...are continually concerned with playing it safe; they are slaves to the god of control.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: right;">...feel secure because they attend church, made a profession of faith at age twelve, were baptized, come from a Christian family, vote Republican or live in America.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: right;">...do not live by faith; their lives are structured so they never have to. They have their savings account, their retirement plan, their life is figured and mapped out, their refrigerators are full and for the most part are in good health. Their lives wouldn't look much different if they suddenly stopped believing in God.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: right;">...probably drink less and swear less than average, but besides that, they really are not very different from your typical unbeliever. They equate their partially sanitized lives with holiness, but they couldn't be more wrong."</div><div style="text-align: right;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">2 Corinthians 13:5 tells me to "examine myself, to see whether I am in the faith; test myself." And so I did. I am far lacking. Not a pretty picture at all! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Jesus also says in Luke 14:34-35, "Salt is good, but if it loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is fit neither for the soil nor for the manure pile; it is thrown out." Not a pretty analogy is it? Lukewarm and uncommitted faith is completely useless...not even a benefit for a manure pile. Ouch!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">As I have studied and read over the passed few weeks, I have come to the conclusion that the culture and the church has manipulated the gospel to fit its preferences.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Now what?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">To be continued......</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(This post is dedicated to a dear friend whose granddaughter is pregnant and unmarried. Her family wanted to give her a baby shower at the church where her granddaughter attends, but the pastor felt it would be "inappropriate under the circumstances". She was also advised to no longer sing in the choir as it wasn't proper to stand in front of the congregation. I'm pretty sure the members carry large bags of rocks with them. My heart breaks for her. Isn't it a good thing Mary wasn't living in our culture?)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3