Boundaround

Happy Bday TO Me! 50 is the best bday evah!

2012-01-19T18:47:00.001-08:00

A walk on the beach in the sunshine…

Lunch preparations…
Spirits…Presents…garnishes…an amazing view…more amazing view…beautiful projects…crowns….Snacks…hot tub at sunset…crab pot pie…readers…decorations
and the best 3 friends a girl could ever be given!!!!! Thank you God for the half century of beauty, tragedy and joy – may Your name be famous in every moment of the second century phase that I have left here ~

It started with a sunrise…

2012-01-01T06:06:00.001-08:00

2011

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This year was full of beauty bathed in newness -- I can scarce take in the sweet contrast off all that God granted full of “new”!! Wonders never cease in a world created by a artist extraordinaire. I did not accomplish much blogging in 2011, perhaps 2012 will afford me more moments to write and contemplate. I am grateful, grateful, grateful for the gift of my Abba, my husband, my family and my friends who all work together to keep me sane and blessed.

New things: 3 babies born, housemates, exchange students,throwing a wedding, son in-law, deaconess, household budget meetings, skype, San Diego, Speaking of new, I better get down to the beach for the 2012 first sunrise. Mwah!

Missing photo memories due to broken camera:

November- Yvonne turns 50, Tim and I graduate from FPU. Thanksgiving (John came). Michael Viver moved to Canada

December- Tori got married. Baby Peter MacClary born. I turned 50!!! Christmas morning all the kids were here for wake up. Oregon trip on Christmas day, stayed at Jen and Matt’s. New Years Eve with the Jandts and biblical pizza.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T06:51:00.001-08:00

2:13 in the Gospel of Luke: …vast heavenly army appeared…

A bit further in 2:32 records Simeon’s prophecy declaring some obscenely harsh things: …a light, for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel

Simeon also addresses Mary directly and asks her to listen carefully. 2:34 This child is destined to be the cause of the falling and rising of many in Israel and to be a sign that will be rejected. Indeed as a result of him the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed-and a sword will pierce your own soul as well.

It is one thing to marvel at being impregnated by the power of God Almighty, but quite another to be told that the life God went to the trouble to historically place in your womb without any sex involved, is going to be rejected…not to mention that the pain surrounding his life is going to be intense for the world. Wait there is more. Your soul is going to be pierced with pain…you the one who was “chosen” to bring this revelation forth for humanity.

Ha, those are words that could slam a new mother right into postpartum depression for sure!

I long to know what Mary’s thoughts were, what her verbalizations were, even if only between her and God. I can not help but wonder what it was that God granted her in the way of spiritual gifts that could sustain such a calling.

Mary thank you for your obedience…for the encouragement your faithful following of God infuses to me some 2000 plus years later. I have been awake since 3:30 am thinking about you and your life and your mothering and your walk. You inspire me to pray for my adult children, begging our King for their lives to encounter the ongoing conviction of your swaddled, soul piercing. sword of truth. revelation of God.

Tink

5 months of pre-matrimony preparations…

2011-10-06T06:08:00.001-07:00

Shan picked and I vased flowers for the shower
It has been a week and a half post Harty wedding day which is long enough for one to ponder how to post about it. Yet…I Have no idea how I want this post to go. I should start by saying that the actual day is a blur, if you have been the MOB you know this to be true. Or should I start by declaring that the process of up to the wedding day feels like it will be seared in my memory forever. Yeah right…this from a woman who cannot remember where she left her eye glasses.

Mrs Jandt helping with wedding favors
I can share a few here and now if you like:
I developed a love for extra sticky post-it notes

A love/hate relationship with Pinterest
A keen awareness that my inner child still has some growing up to do
The understanding that tea dying little muslin bags should not be followed by ironing them dry – the acid in the tea destroys the Teflon coating on the iron
Annoyance for our modern day social aversion to RSVPing

Vendors: Monica’s Waterfront Bakery and The Cutting Garden

Lots more gray hairs thanks to -- administration/lists/delegation/hiring vendors/thinking through zillions of worst case scenarios. For example. if the wind gusts how shall we keep the table cloths on the tables?

I also developed a LOVE for the sweet memories of having something every single day for 5 months to converse about with both my daughters. I do not think there has been anything in my parenting process that has offered such a long stretch of united conversation time. Of course there were days that we all felt tired of thinking and planning towards the wedding for sure. I will say though, of all the difficult things about planning one of the happiest events of our family’s history, the concentrated focus resulted in loads of pricelss memories!

Wedding day photos are yet to come – I am so excited to see how they turn out.

Before I publish this post I want to thank all of you who pitched in with encouragement and plain hard work, not to mention your patience as you watched me be constantly sucked away into the vortex of “I have so much to do today” --You’re the best!
Tink~

44 days to go~

2011-08-12T10:34:00.001-07:00

Hello…it has been since June and wow—that seems impossible!
Brief update: June and July were a hub of activity including--

I attended my 12th Leavenworth quilting retreat with bff
We had our son-in-law to be’s family for dinner for the first time
We had a young family in transition, whom we dearly love, move in with us for the month
My besty, Shelleice, from Utah and her hubby paid us a weekend visit on their way to Canada ala Harley style
I spent 2 weeks hobbling with a back set-back that prevented us from traveling to our planned family vacation destination, big bummer!
We hosted 6 visitors from China for 2.5 weeks
I started two wedding quilts and finished one
Two of my small group members tied the knot with each other
My bff, Daisy Days turned FIFTY…we Yas planned a fun day of surprises to commemorate the day (video to come)
Two of my friends gave birth to beautiful babies -- one of which I threw a baby shower for, the other I helped out during her home-birth (I just fed her children and filled her birthing pool and prayed her hubby would arrive before pushing…prayer answered)
And…lastly (you thought I would never stop huh?), we unveiled my circa-Princess-Diana wedding dress from it’s pristine box. It was a special evening indeed!!!!

the old dress unveiled

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Another Milestone

2011-06-15T22:36:00.001-07:00

2011 holds many super exciting milestones for me personally: I turn 50, two of my best friends turn 50, my dd is getting married, I gave my dog away and who knows what milestones will be a surprise before the year is out?

A few weeks back Daisy Days and I celebrated a cultural milestone together…we watched Oprah’s final episode.

We enjoyed a goodbye European kiss of respect to both cheeks of Miss Oprah. We have grown up with her and respect her heart for people and her passion to make a difference in the world.

Oprah we will miss you!!!

Mwah!

Normally we would have tank tops…

2011-06-14T22:33:00.001-07:00

and shorts, or better yet sundresses on! However, summer in the Northwest has decided to hide her face to us so far this year. Vonney decided that a blue cocktail would be our substitute for sunshine – Yum!

Her house matches our drinks…her retro decorating is so much fun to photograph.

I decided we need a porch shot, sweaters and all…aren’t we adorable?

This meal had to be in my post…it was tasty and so beautiful!

Happy Summer where ever this post finds you~

Tink

Announcement Announcement Announcement

2011-05-04T19:29:00.001-07:00

With great joy and excite- tummy-feelings, I am proud to let the blog world know that my husband will be giving our dd’s hand in marriage to quite a delightful catch of a man!

Did I really just post that I am going to be a MOB?
Tink

Palm Sunday

2011-04-17T22:23:00.001-07:00

Been pondering here deep in my lazy-boy for several hours. I set myself to go image surfing on the topic of what is called “Jesus Triumphal Entry”. While scrolling around this thought occurred to me-- Why not search for other images based on recorded scriptures from this historical day?

I hunted for images related to what happened after Jesus came into town that day - something very unusual is recorded.

Not the fact that Jesus presence in the city created a public ruckus, that was normal behavior for the crowds around him. Not that he performed miracles of healing, that was normal behavior for him. Not that he taught at the temple, that was normal as well.

My pleasurable art hunt resulted depictions of my LORD with a self-made whip of cords driving out the opportunists set up to make a buck, and perhaps even a name for themselves during holy Passover.

Meanwhile my thoughts were pondering: Is it practical thinking that motivates man to tack on “special activities” to what God commands of them, like selling a vat of figs to those who will need to eat for crying out loud? Or is it more likely self-serving-idolatrous thinking motivating man to minimize what God views as maximum?

I have recently experienced this Jesus who held a whip with rage in his voice, and in his hand. I was invited to glimpse his view during such a compassionate rage. How can rage be compassionate? Could it be His compassion is for God the Father, His holy rage against replicas man, with ease and justificational thinking, worships.

During praise and worship time this morning at church I was engulfed with inability to sit--only standing with my hands lifted high felt minuscule-ly appropriate in His presence. In contrast; I have never, ever, ever, ever felt compulsion, to stand with hands lifted high in honor of my check book or various other facsimiles that my naturally-black-heart has worshiped.

As for this whip and holy rage - my life has experienced and is settled on the truth that Hebrews 12:11 speaks into my ears concerning discipline given to me by the hand of my God --

12:11 Now all discipline seems painful at the time, not joyful.But later it produces the fruit of peace and righteousnessfor those trained by it. 12:12 Therefore, strengthenyour listless hands and your weak knees,12:13 and make straight paths for your feet,¹⁸so that what is lame may not be put out of joint but be healed. (New English Translation at net.bible.org)

Full of joy via mercy of a holy whip wielder, and giddy for the commemorative days this week holds for my heart,

Tink

Miss Sami Goes to Omak Saturday

2011-04-07T21:25:00.001-07:00

This 6 month old precious puppy saved my heart. She became part of my life in Feb 2006 thanks to a mid-life crisis of sorts. Miss Lil Black Sami, with her princess/city-dog personality became my daily routine. We walked together daily…she softened my hurts and soothed my aching soul. I have written about her so many times here on Boundaround. I have documented her four litters and snapped photos of her adorableness.

It feels strange to type out loud, but tomorrow may be my last full day of joy with her. Saturday she will move to Omak (the dry side of this beautiful state) and hopefully fall in love with a new family. The plan is a trial—everyone needs to be happy or we will abort the plan.

This good ole girl was an amazing mom with all her litters. The first thee were gone by 6 weeks old, however we chose to keep a pup from her 4th litter -- Miss Millie.

I have found managing two dogs to be more work than I had anticipated. In addition, I can tell she misses the days of being the only child. Therefore, I decided I would try to adopt Sami out to a family that does not have other dogs and see if she could find a new true love.

This may be a crazy idea and miserable all around, but I am praying that a sweet family is gifted with the doggie of their dreams. This is for sure - I shall keep you updated!

Tink~

Then I read the word “Beware”

2011-04-03T16:53:00.001-07:00

In the parking lot of church today I was smacked in the face (not literally) with what has become a reoccurring frustration of mine. Ok… “frustration” is not the word I mean…reoccurring blood-boiling is more like it.

My blood boils in the effort to protect, to guard and to keep at bay those whom, for what ever reason, seem to consistently stir up trouble and division.

I know that I am powerless to do such a thing but my heart beats with passion for healthy relationships, personal as well as body-of-Christ relationships.

In the heat of my blood-boiling I decided to go do some research. I’ll show them…reason number one. I’ll find a tool that will help train – say a book or an article to “share” that could so perfectly apply to the person situation…reason number two.

So I clicked on over to the Peacemaker web site. I love the resources of their ministry! There were some new resources and some links to blogs—oh how I love blogs.

As I was clicking away on the blog links I found one of them to be quite humorous. You see as I was reading it I heard God speak to my heart a shepherding tone--

“ Rhonda, remember that this Peacemaker ministry is needed because conflict always exists, which is not the same as it being needed in order to prevent conflict from existing.”

Humbled, I again, face my flawed thinking that longs for perfection here on earth. So I whisper a prayer…..

God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference.
Living one day at a time;
Enjoying one moment at a time;
Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace;
Taking, as He did, this sinful world
as it is, not as I would have it;
Trusting that He will make all things right
if I surrender to His Will;
That I may be reasonably happy in this life
and supremely happy with Him
Forever in the next.
Amen.

--Reinhold Niebuhr

Praying also that I learn more and more how to be part of solutions rather than part of an illusions.
Tink~

Binding is all that is left

2011-04-02T11:19:00.001-07:00

This may be the fastest quilt project yet for me. The time line pressure of making a sample for the shop is very motivating. I started this quilt the first week of Feb and have only a few more inches on the binding. No…I did not quilt it. Wanda Rains of Rainy Day Quilts used her long arm to produce an adorable clam shell. I have always wanted a quilt with this pattern quilted on it!!!

If you happen to like this sweet quilt I am happy to let you know that it is available as a block of the month in two color ways, by Moda here.

You are not seeing things in the first shot…I do indeed use my design wall in layers lol. These shots are pre-border and are minus the adorable quilting, but if you come by the shop you can see it hanging. I am tickled with it!

Praying creativity abounds for you today~

Tink

I Got a Big-God-Hug of Miss Beth Moore on Friday

2011-03-14T16:46:00.001-07:00

Majestic splendor

emanates from

Him

HE is the source of strength and joy

1 Chronicles 16: 27

Can you see her?

That little light of joy is fiery-powerful and fun to learn from!

Sweet Miss Beth looks soooooo tiny in context of the Tacoma Dome.

I was blessed with a free ticket – thank you so much Living Proof Ministry…you RAWK!

Thank you God for that great big hug!!!!

Love, Tink

4 road trips inside of 36 days

2011-03-06T22:46:00.001-08:00

It all started on Jan 28th and ended March 5th

I shared my post about the Ya Ya beach trip a few posts ago – that yearly trip is always one of the highlights of my year.
The weekend prior to that trip I accompanied Fairborn Guy to a work conference.

My friend at Katney’s Kaboodle drove into town to play quilt shop tour guide for me. We enjoyed a great lunch at a local Indian cuisine spot…that mango slushy was a tasty delight.

The weekend after my Ya Ya trip I organized a small goodbye reception at our church for our outgoing Youth Pastor and his family.

Saying goodbye is always easier when there is pie involved.
The sweet family we were honoring have been like family to us for the past five years. We are very happy for the congregation who has hired them but will feel the gaping hole they leave for quite a while.

The following weekend was our Youth Ministry’s three day winter retreat. Fairborn Guy and I enjoyed serving again this year.

I mastered using the massive can opener!

These women inspire me…being Pastor’s wives requires large shoulders to carry the weight of all that their families combat, and immense hearts of grace. In addition they have to grow very tough skin !!

This past weekend our new Youth Pastor and his wife took a team of us to the Youth Pastor’s Leadership conference called Summit. Peanut and I were part of the team. Though I got very little sleep my soul was infused with direction and tools to help support our new leaders.

I did not get too many photos but I was thrilled to grab a shot of our friend Wilson as he was praising God as one of the worship sessions was getting underway.

Looking back I am wondering how in the world all this activity could have happened in such a short amount of time. I am ready for a vacation…these successive events squished inside of 36 days has me longing for a rest. Anyone have a condo in Hawaii they would like to gift me for a week?
Full and drenched in JOY,
Tink

Today was the silver anniversary of our local quilt guild's quilt show. Bff and I found ourselves inside a quilt, can you guess which one?

2011-02-18T19:15:00.000-08:00

Bff and I attended, it has been a few years since we have had the pleasure of going. This booth had tons of Hawian prints and patterns...ooooh how I want to jump a plane and plant my butt on a beach!

This quilt was so much fun and inspired me to to think about swapping blocks again.

Piece of Cake patterns make my heart swoon.

This quilt was my absolute FAVORITE...I am so in love with Kaffe Fasset fabrics right now...

The smallest blocks in this quilt are 1.5 inches....ohhhhh my goodness!

James Harriot inspired quilts....how cool is this?

Each block is machine quilted differently...soooooo much fun!

(hint hint)

Bff is making this quilt...she has several block done...time to get this project on the front burner girlfriend.

Love this little fabric collage

The banner quilt for the theme this year...what a fantastic way to feature memories!

I want to make this quilt...the question is will I remember that I want to make it?

Barb Schultz who is a local quilt artist had a booth this year. I just love her window quilt and her Geisha. She paints on fabric with fabric inks

Priceless Recharge Ya Ya Style

2011-02-10T21:04:00.001-08:00

Trust…beaten down

2011-01-25T10:49:00.001-08:00

I hate this feeling…it crushes
vice grips

It stings to the deepest part of my soul. My tears fall in utter loss but to you I speak:

wretched lie, no matter your size or origin, you steal and take and distort and break and crush and imprint and I hate you more than I can articulate.

You will not gain for long…this world will unfold one day and the
HOLY truth shall silent your voice forever….

here I stand…salt drips…hoping in forever

Tink

Joining the ranks of the “Siestas”

2011-01-19T23:20:00.001-08:00

Tonight, while I in my recliner, and she on the sofa, and both with our laps full of laptops, my dd asked “Mom you want to go see Beth Moore at the Tacoma Dome?”.
I was expecting more of a “Mom you want to put laundry in for me before you go to bed?” kind of question.
Oh my heart be still. My head instantly froze with fright – I wanted to lie…I wanted to say “sure thing girl, lets get the tickets!”.
It brings tears to my eyes even considering saying the word no in relation to anything Miss Beth.
I her with all my kindred soul. She has been a beacon of hope and an astounding teacher of the word to me. I have seen her live once, in Seattle for one of her Living Proof conferences. I have a bookcase full of studies I have completed that she has written, and I tape her weekly on the Life Today segment taught on Tuesdays. God uses her in my life time-and-time again…He just knows my heart can receive of Him through her!!
So… why say no?
Two words: Tacoma Dome. The venue is mostly bench seating, I could be memory challenged here but it seems to me that only about 1/4 to1/3 of the seating have backs.
Nothing would make me happier than Me+dd+Miss Beth+thousands of sisters in Christ, however I don’t think my back can handle Bench seating OR 2 days of sitting. I still can’t sit through and entire church service without discomfort. Stupid back injury-you are a nuisance~
In my broken hearted frame of mind I decided to scoot over to the blog that I remembered Beth mention during a Tuesday teaching. Thank you Google! Her Living Proof blog was the first hit. It was there that I discovered this memory verse challenge and the crazy name “siestas”. I decided to join the party!
My frame of mind is now improved. I will get to see Miss Beth lots this year via the amazing and wonderful blog community!
I have downloaded the scripture spiral (a little tool to help contain the verses you choose to memorize). The study load is 2 verses a month – a challenge for me indeed but the best part is that I get to choose them so they will be baby, bite size portions.
If the idea of scripture memorization intrigues you but this avenue is not your cup of tea you might like this challenge at aholyexperience.com, I considered it last week but forgot to decide. I call that – purely providential!
Goodnight dear City of Blog, it is way past my bed time.

Vlog Amateurs

2011-01-15T17:37:00.000-08:00

Nothing like a 4 bffs getting a little camera action -- these gals make my laughter rawk!

Dawning of 2011 ( via my Panasonic DMC-FS15)

2011-01-01T10:17:00.000-08:00

Thanks to a jazzy little cold our son brought home from Bahrain (or more likely the plane rides home from Bahrain) I was awake at 4 am this morning.

I spent some time pecking away hoping to get drowsy before daylight. Not a chance....so I headed out to our deck with my camera. I have to mention that it was 21 degrees..... ffffffffreezing cold temps that are seriously not normal for this part of the country.

As I stood out there praying in the new year and breathing in the cold crisp air I thought --

"Why not walk a few city blocks down to the beach oh lazy girl?"

I warred with myself then headed for my weather protectiveness items--aka woollies; hoping that if I actually saw humanity on my trek that no one would notice my PJ's.

Walking

First sight of water

Beauteousness

I was not alone for this sunrise display of Glory. The gents in the back ground were loaded with many cameras, one of which was a home-made job the take a 30x40 negative -- it was huge!!

Here is a better shot of it.

My Ya Ya's Yvonne and Melissa would have loved chatting it up with my these guys but I was not in a social mood, I was using all my energy to prevent personal frost-bite.

(jsyk there is very likely impersonal frost-bite some where)

I would be a skunk if I did not say that I wondered if they noticed my jammies?

Will now post this and head to bed for a much needed nap.

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T05:39:00.000-08:00

Each age has deemed the new-born year

The fittest time for festal cheer.

~Walter Scott

This is a terrible photo as my flash was incorrectly set, but it is the only documenting shot I captured of our h'orderve themed New Year's Eve bash of 2010. Michael and Sharon left early...she had been fighting a migraine all day. Tim is in the recliner, which could not be seen here, and Britt joined us a wee bit before the clock struck midnight.

Praying that our Potter's Hands of unfailing love create kingdom beauty with we --
His humble clay.

Ahhh the ole New Year's turning and I need a personal challenge syndrome

2010-12-29T06:32:00.000-08:00

Wish me success as I shall need it! Though I enjoy studying the bible certain sections at a time or even topically. I have never had the joy of reading it cover to cover. I have tried, but honestly, I get so distracted wanting to stop and chew and dissect and research. It is going to be a very difficult discipline for me to just read. I may have to allow myself very quick jotted notes.

Today is actually day 3 of my adventure (I wanted to get a tweeny head start) with God and His personally-breathed words that are "profitable for instruction, for reproof and conviction of sin, for correction of error and discipline in obedience, and for training in righteousness (in holy living, in conformity to God's will in thought, purpose, and action), so that the man of God may be complete and proficient, well fitted and throughly equipped for every good work."

~2 Tim 3:16-17 (Amplified Translation)

~photo taken with my new web cam is of participant's hand book for group discussion just in-case I decide to discuss it with myself. LOL

My Mouthy Mumbling Now Muted!

2010-12-25T19:23:00.000-08:00

The ole lady has a new baby!

When Fairborn Guy's bday card too me announced that my birthday gift would not be given till Christmas I was mildly miffed. What the heck! No Fair!

Today I take it all back...this gift was worth the wait and is ever so fair!!!!

Nov/Dec moments worth documenting

2010-12-23T06:15:00.000-08:00

Corn Maze date with my Guy

Odd shot on the ferry ramp

Chair I wanted....sofa version of the chair I bought.

Proud parents of the Miss Emily the bride

Rug I loved...fabric I put on my new sofa

Beach views of things I love......

Gift for my Ya's doggie Pickles

Visits home from College = Joy

Dolly afternoon in Shan's room

Overdue "mom" visit from Oregon

The people who warm my heart with inspiration

Pooh!

Heaven on earth -- Jefferson Beach

The Door on a quiet night...

Best pot pie Evah!

Salsa's binding is fffffinished!

Bday tradition with my Peanut....Yum!

Quayle Girls

Fishy?

2010-12-13T19:44:00.000-08:00

2 years and 3 months ago I decided it was time to say goodbye to the ugly carpeting on our stairs.

Not hard to guess that I was not going to be content with ONLY the stairs being disrobed.

Eventually the rest would have to go as well!

Last spring we disrobed the rest of the carpet clothed floor.

For the past few months Fairborn Guy has been working to install the replacement flooring.

He had great helpers!

The wood cutting operating room

A bedroom, my studio and a bathroom = loads of knee time

Isn't it purty?

Miss Mille under my computer desk watching me type this post.

From Blogging Pause to Play

2010-12-07T18:55:00.000-08:00

I hope you happily notice that this post contains zero four-legged furr-faces! My days of sales woman are behind me, I no longer need to use my sweet blog to push my products. Hurray for chapters that end ey?

I am moving along toward "normal" these days. There is still some nerve damage that sets me back in certain situations but for the most part Tink is back! She also owns a sweet new puppy named Millie but I shall brag about her in a later post.

It is the crazy and busy Christmas season which includes my Red Hat group's Christmas lunch. Since I have not seen the Red Hat gals much this year due to my disabling-disk issues I decided it was high time I made an appearance.

As a point of detail: I am a pinky member of a Red Hat group called Scarlet Ladies. I joined the group with my dear friend Cindy. We have had the distinct goal of receiving a graduation ceremony when we turned 50 to become official Red Hatters. For 7 years or so we have been aging along side our more seasoned members. They always bring a sweet story to conversations and are reliable for great jokes and loads of laughs. I enjoy the perspective women older than I have on life and love and joy -- I like to think of each one as wisdom deposits for my future.

Back to my story...today all were in cheery holiday spirits. We were anticipating our new Queen's bent on all things Red Hat as she stepped into her new Queeny proverbial shoes. Our tradition is to honor the birthdays of members with song and a special card. Because my birthday is this month I expected the usual. I knew that Miss Lynn and I would be sung too as well as receive a little special bday treat. However---- I did not expect what actually happened!!!

Our vice Queen, also new to her crown, came to let me know that I would be receiving a little ceremony for my transition from pink to red. Ahhhh.....I did not know what to say. I actually do not even remember my response but I told her that this year I am only turning 49 -- not 50. She whispered in her sweet little Red Hat voice, "oh don't tell Janice (our new Queen), she has prepared something special." I am not used to sweet ole-lady dysfunction. It totally threw me~

I caught Cindy out of the corner of my eye. Simultaneously came an odd infusion of spontaneous silliness that caused me to say: "Oh don't tell her! Lets just do it!!!"

In other words my friends, today I turned a year older than I really am!!

My bff Cindy, who is now younger than me!

Queeny-Janice Vice Queen-Carol

Queeny Janice preparing to read me my graduation poem

I have been de-pinkhatted

Ta-da!

I made it!

Now I can wear purple instead of lavendar!

She is never going to let me live this one down!

For those of you who know me, you may already be seriously confused about when the heck my birthday is, and how old I am turning. I have moved it from December to May...just when you were all settled on May, (hey--I gave you about a decade) I rudely moved it back to December!!!
Don't think for a minute this gets you out of attending my real 50th bday party next year...just sayin!

Last The Best Of All The (Labradoodle) Game!

2010-10-24T09:52:00.000-07:00

Pick of the litter - Miss Millie is available at www.kingstonlabradoodles.com

www.kingstondooles.com

2010-10-17T14:06:00.000-07:00

Mr. Corduroy-available

Mr. Dexter-available

Miss Polly-reserved (Corduroy's back)

Miss Millie-reserved

Mr. Dexter-available

Miss Rory-available

Post Outdoor Play Time Naps In The Bathtub

2010-10-12T12:12:00.000-07:00

Come see more about us here!

Labradoodle Love at 5 Weeks Old

2010-10-10T14:44:00.000-07:00

More details at my Kingstondoodle web site

I changed my blog skin to match my, thankfully lifting, mood of the past two weeks. Or has it been all summer?

2010-09-04T21:53:00.000-07:00

Looking back at my post records it is mind blowing that March was the last month of chatty-ness bloggville received from me. What a long valley of deep, dark, summer this has been. Many of you, my sweet friends, have been given difficult circumstances this year as well. I am sorry I could not be more of a support for you.

Though my circumstance trail through the shady cold valley has been most of the summer's terrain, there were several wild flower meadows bathed in the sunshine of JOY that enlightened the soppy mud and cold heavy fog.

My father's 70th birthday bash was a blast
My Peanut's graduation from High School bash was a blast
My sister's marriage was a blast
Friends and family bringing me flowers and food from their gardens, driving me to appointments and the grocery store, baking us delicious nutritious food, lending us items to assist in dealing with my limited movement and pain, cleaning my house, helping me with puppy umbilical cords, doing our laundry, walking the dog, lifting us in prayer, moving furniture for us and giving us so many reasons to Praise Him in the valley.

I am thankful for being held!

I have a few weeks before physical therapy will be prescribed. I won't lie there are moments that fear seems to over rule my thoughts of tomorrow but the reasonable Tink knows that time passes and physical strength and restoration will come!!!!

Kingston Labradoodles is on its way...

2010-07-17T17:35:00.000-07:00

~~Friday~~ Saturday Night....wooohoooo!!!

Today Fairborn Guy not only commanded the Kirby, sucking up all the dust bunnies of late, but he also gave Sami a bath. She is looking pregnant for sure, her tummy is swelling and her milking devices are kicking into development mode.

So without further ado...

I am very excited to introduce you to her mate, Starbucks of Seattle Labradoodles!

Starbucks is a stocky sturdy fellow, whose Labrador-like build will compliment the slender build of our Sami girl. I enjoyed watching them flirt...they took to each other right away. Though I have whelped all three of Sami's former litters, I have not had the pleasure of attending the breedings. I have been looking forward to this event...my first, very own, litter of Mulit-Gen Miniature Australian Labradoodles.

I can't wait till Sept 1st!! The puppy breath will smell heavenly.

Midsummer musings from my horizontal perspective

2010-07-15T22:24:00.000-07:00

This is a stock photo from Google Images...I do not look this cute in spin class

Let the record show that this middle aged girl has always had a bit of a weak back but as of late it's episodes have increased and thanks to a spurt of spinning class excitement in early April, it again, took a turn toward the pain inducing side. I babied it, took it to the chiropractor and massage therapist for several weeks, nursing it back to a painless state just in time for Peanut's graduation bash, which needs to be a blog post topic.

I succeeded in also taking it (my back) to beautiful Leavenworth for a quilting retreat. It behaved, and fun was had...also a blog post needing to happen. As the cycle of life would have it, the next week, my adorable Labradoodle was ready to breed. This required a car trip 4 hours south for stud services and three days of mild car travel from my accommodations to the home of said stud...the goal being adorable puppies in Sept. My goal, sadly during this trip, did not occur...a future post on how and when that goal was accieved will come soon. Meanwhile the ole back was sending me loud and clear messages of warning.

My Blueberry Pie

My Friend Miche's Traditional Fourth of July Cake

July arrived with fireworks and celebrations along with a now painful back screaming at me. I had no time for massage, and my Chiropractor was on vacation. Suffer through...was my motto...the Chiro returns the 12th you can make it girl!

The 7th I decided to see a Physical Therapist which was a great idea...it gave me a reality check and a set of positions to help my back get on the road to recovery. Ooh Ahem...what about that dreaded little detail of being scheduled to work? I will be fine I tell myself...as I limp out the door two days later, hoping it would not be a busy Kingston Quilt Shop day.

Side bar note about the shop...it is closing and, you guessed it, I will be posting about that in an upcoming post,

Where was I...maybe mid story about another dimension of my denial tendencies?...Ah yes.

Denial became reality the following day...when a bolt of lightning pain shot through my right hip down through to my right foot. I won't give the unlovely details of my sobbing and screaming and feeling like death from pain was possible...you may be one who knows exactly what I would describe. If so, I tip my hat to your brave and overcoming strength!! It hurts soooo freaking bad

I was in panic mode but tried to send out prayer request texts...who knows who received my cry for help, I had zero cognisance abilities at this point...I merely felt like every pain demon that operates against God Almighty were presently having a pain-fest inside my body. Thank you if you "happen" to be one of those text receivers, and have been able to pray for me. Based on the text logs in my inbox it looks like the horrid pain-fest lasted over an hour. After the pain-fest demons flew away they left only the consequences of a numb right foot, inability to support my body weight, what felt like electricity buzzing through the leg and a physical moratorium on sitting or lying down. I was powerless to do anything but limp around upright begging for relief. Finally, several hours later, I some how got into a semi sitting position and was able to fall asleep.

So here I lay...obeying doctors orders of staying as horizontal as I possibly can with the goal of seeing if the nerve activity will become more normal.

I have a solution for ice packs...if only a solution for narcotic induced constipation were as simple. :) Sorry people, but narcotics cause constipation!

Hope in the Living God and pain meds produce this smile....

I am blessed to have Fairborn Guy mostly home from work playing nurse with back up reinforcements on a list either engaged or to be contacted if needed. A great friend lent me his massage table which is so much easier to lay on than our sofa or my comfy bed. Another great friend lent us his lap top so I can bloviate about the current events of my life in healing. And so many are on the clock praying and or sending me calls, Facebook posts, and texts of encouragement...to all of you THANK YOU!

Until next time...which will be sooner than my vertical normal,
Tink

In Honor Of Her Service - You Are Cordially Invited To Attend

2010-06-12T08:09:00.000-07:00

Today is my mandatory retirement day...the finish line to the teaching job I had a recruiter offer me back in 1989. A job I was not interested in having--a job I had no idea even existed. Were it not for a brave, sweet, mother...a stranger to me...in the midst of small talk about the ages of our kiddos, softly speaking these words: "You need to homeschool your son."...I might never had heard the call of my recruiter.

Even so I doubted...like Sara of old...laughing at the craziness of it all. "Tim will surely put the damper on this job offer...no way in ___will he think this is a good idea."

"How was your conference session babe?...what did you learn about rock dating that you were not taught in college?"

His reply of excitement entailing words for which my brain had no context of understanding...which translated to this non-scientific thinking brain, "fantastic!".
Then he posed a similar question to me, inquiring of the non-scientific session I had attended

"Well *laughing with a sarcastic tone threaded in my tongue of reply*...the speaker was amazing and happens to be a homeschooling dad, what's more, a woman who sat next to me had the gall to tell me that I needed to homeschool. Can you believe that...what a wacko, right?"

It was next that my recruiter dropped his nuclear bomb. It came via my husband's mouth, a mouth, with the exception of a handful of times, speaks the word "no" even when his eventual answer ends up being a "yes".
"I think we should look into it" he replied...a life-learning-love laden bomb sentence that changed the course of our family's history.

I wish I were attending a retirement party for myself...a party where every person who ever spoke a word of encouragement, shared their honest homeschooling struggles and fears, or wrote an article/book of application to my journey would be in attendance.

I could kiss each and every one of them on the cheek, thank them for their contribution to my job title and hand them a Starbucks gift card. The guest list would be immense. The curriculum writers and vendors alone would take hours to honor. The dedicated convention organizers...the speakers...the support group meeting hostesses...the hundreds of parents who volunteered to judge events like our homeschool achievement days and science fairs...women who took the time to answer my questions along the way when their kids were most likely needing their attention... field-trip organizers...sports coaches and referees...coop participants...fellow colleges who were impassioned to offer classes I enrolled my students in...and most importantly -- those moms who were willing to trade kids for the day every-so-often providing sweet hours for refueling!

I would offer a bouquet of sporting event tickets (he hates coffee) to my amazing husband and land him the deepest sloppiest kiss ~
He weathered these years by my side being the solid provider and faithful humorist. He played with my students...giving them the side of me I did not know how to access in the midst of performing as principal and teacher. He sent me off to convention every year and supported my off-shoot adventures including essential girlfriend time. Thank you Lover for enduring life with an untrained teacher as she strived to stay at least one step ahead of her class...your living breathing heritage.

I would offer a book to each of my graduates...a magic book that told the story they can not recall. The story of a humble mother's dedication to them...their callings and their faiths. I had not a goal higher than instilling in them the passion of kneeling faith paired with the relentless search for truth. The story would not hide the times that I failed them miserably, but too, it's chapters would herald the beautiful countless moments I did not...for my recruiter made sure for them that I met the mark...in-spite of me.

With my heart quite sad I say "goodbye sweet teaching career"...I thought it would feel more like release than this. "Turns out you gifted me indescribable bricks of gold I get to hide in my heart forever!!!".

"I will miss you so"~

2400 resolution is too high for Costco photo online...who knew?

2010-06-10T23:12:00.000-07:00

Dear Diary,

Spent most of yesterday scanning over 60 photos for Saturday's party...uploaded them to Costco.com.

Today when I went to pick them up...they said "sorry we could not print them" so...
had a little melt down...seems that my scanner is more powerful than I understood...put smile on face...
off to do the rest of my errands.

Decided to hit box-store for lemon aid and boxed lemon bars (forget making them from scratch now that my photo plan was derailed I have lost my will to cook from scratch).
It is past 2 O'clock, stomach aching from hunger, buy 4 Jojos to tied me over.

As I am wheeling the cart to the car, I stuff a Jojo in my mouth...it proceeds to try to aspirate me too death. I am passed my several people while spitting and coughing and trying to breath. When I recover (thanks to a very unladylike spitting session), I am so dazed I can not recall where I parked. 48 year old lady pushing a cart up and down every isle in the walmart parking lot is a scary sight.

Home to retry the photo upload...determined... success...send Shannon to town to pick them up. Make cupcakes (my will to cook from scratch has re-surfaced now)... success...cook frosting...simmering...ooops cell phone drops into the pan as I am trying to read a text.

Moral of story: I think I need to stick to pizza and brownies parties AND never ever buy Jojos ...they are killers~

Happy Birthday Too You~

2010-06-10T07:00:00.000-07:00

Your heart cares for people

...you are comfortable, and spread that comfort to those around you~

...you know how to dress for any occasion

...an accomplished artist ~

...full of joy and softness~

...looking past the obsticles ~

Happy Birthday Snikerdoodle

I love you immense!!!

Today's walk

2010-06-03T22:58:00.000-07:00

Pixie Dust Is At It Again

2010-05-15T13:19:00.000-07:00

If she knew....

2010-05-02T21:33:00.000-07:00

The lost gaze in her expression masks the once full-of-bounce and zeal for life

The currency exchange of leaning her ear toward him alone will cost more than its worth

The narrow road of "no not now...not you" would have reaped such a great and glorious harvest

The strengths she is gifted with were never designed to use to coddle an insecure man

The adventure threshold before her is crucial to her love affair with her Maker

The fear... that pulls her back into the soppy slumpy mess those of us too, ill chose, thwarts her hearing

Divalessness

2010-05-01T17:19:00.000-07:00

I have been boring-boring-boring for the past 3 weeks, suffering from a back injury that descended upon me in my...wait for it...sleep. It sounds much more diva to have an injury take place while participating in a marathon or even a half-marathon...or perhaps even during a great night of marriage bed bliss.

Oh sadness...when will Diva ever arrive in my life?

Therefore my current life goal has been to keep moving in my immense pain and to try not to dive into the several year old pain killers left over from Fairborn Guy's melanoma surgery.

Therefore I have snapped a few shots on my slow and steady walking ventures.

End of Jefferson Beach fishing pier -- looking south

Turn around and you discover "Jeff Head" in his erosion-laced state. Can you see the house missing it's deck thanks to the bank recently giving way?

Here is a close up

I do not know these neighbors but I pray they sleep soundly at night as well as escape any more significant property damage.

More excitement to come,

Tink

Six-hundred Pounds Put To Death

2010-04-23T15:18:00.000-07:00

About 13 years or so ago I bought this piece at a second hand store for our television.

It is the heaviest piece of furniture on the planet...why we moved it from Port Orchard to Kingston 8 years ago is beyond my understanding, but we did.

Today I decided to have some fun with this

Selling it on Craigslist was an option but it would require getting it down a hefty flight of stairs...I decided to save the world from more back injuries, Obama Care is broke already and I am a team player!

It felt so good to destroy something!!!

I got tired quickly though...which lead to recruiting Fairborn Guy and his hand-dandy jigsaw.

He did not think it was fun to destroy something,

but he played along.

Ya Ya for Vashon ~

2010-04-19T23:49:00.000-07:00

The little island of Vashon was our destination of choice this month for "Yaya" day.

Our goal required nourishment...four friends feind-ish over fabulous fabric must fuel up.

I ordered first...breakfast for lunch - a must. But wait! All three of my darling diner divas ordered the BLT.

Excuse me sir, may I change my order please?

I would like the BLT as well.

Thank you so much.

Satisfied, we brave the long walk two doors down to the Island Quilter.

My first mission...polka-dots. I have had a collection going for a few years now.

One day I shall have to blog my eventual creation

My next mission...fabric listening. It is an art developed with time, training, trial and error.

I was hoping to hear fabric say to me this one important word:

Jennifer.

These little gems were the voices my discerning ear tuned.

First one...then the other then the...you get the picture here.

Next - what happens is quite amazing...they begin to sing together and make beautiful quilt music.

And finally... k-ching k-ching...

do you take debt cards?

chest puffs up with pride

2010-04-15T12:44:00.000-07:00

Challenge to myself: Accomplished

2010-04-13T11:20:00.000-07:00

I did it...I accomplished my little goal of journaling this "Stepping Up" study here in my blog

My work space...

This was my eighth Beth Moore bible study journey, if you have not had the pleasure I highly recommend her work. Her gift of teaching has added tremendous substance to my walk with God. My favorite thing about Miss Beth Moore is her love of learning...I learn well from learners, they inspire me!

I will step back down the stairs of ascent I have climbed with my study group now, looking forward to uncovering what will be my next study journey. I will not be recording it here, you will find me in my paper journal with my mechanical pencil scribbling away my heart's thoughts, ideas and questions with my Abba. I have missed my journal ~

A United Family Of Man/United Family Of God & Bless the LORD/The LORD Bless You

2010-04-12T21:07:00.000-07:00

These last two psalms,133 &134, conclude my "Stepping Up" journal-study of the 15 Ascent Psalms

Psalm 133 speaks to unity in the body of Christ...the beautiful result of setting aside "rib" issues as opposed to "spine" issues with one another.

Way back in 1978 I became keenly aware of all that Christ did to purchase my ransom from sin, however I had no idea how difficult it would be, at times, to get along with my fellow Christian brothers and sisters. My idealistic heart honestly believed that with Christ in common, we would NEVER disagree. Yet this psalm describes our harmony as consecrating and refreshing. These are pretty powerful adjectives which logically conclude that harmony is an "if"....dare I conclude because we would tend to lean toward disharmony??

Finally psalm 134...

the journeys end...

the culminating purpose of the ascent...

worship~

Three sweet verses declaring the blessing that comes to God via my worship as well as the blessing that comes to me via God because I choose to bring Him worship. I'm guessing that I am not alone in finding this duo-purpose amazing?

I was excited by what Miss Beth shared to this dynamic duo from the Word Biblical Commentary:

"Worship at Zion is a doorway that opens out into the power behind the world. Blessing extends in a remarkable cycle. Dynamic potential is given to those who sincerely acknowledge God's power. Essentially it is unsought and comes as a gracious byproduct of worship. In keeping with this attribute of power, the divine object of blessing becomes an active subject. God generously shares resources of omnipotence with devoted followers so that abundant life may be theirs."

Thank you Dear Beth Moore for your dedication to your sisters such as I.
I have loved studying with you and am very proud to call you "Mentor"~
Huge hugs,
Tink

My Psalm 132

2010-04-07T08:48:00.000-07:00

Like the wind storm of last week, your anger O God can "blaze out" (2 Sam 6:7) against what and whom despise your present day Ark Of The Covenant --

Your Word...

the place in which you meet and give instruction (Ex:25:21-22)

Remember all of the too-many times in my life I have neglected your Ark's direction.

At times living with the consequences of that neglect has incited fear and anger in me toward You

Causing me to want to run from You, trying to push You out of my life

Thank you for the longing ache of your absence when my stupidity thinks it prefers separation from You

Living with out You near calls in me: "Come close Tink, My Footstool waits for your joyous laugh. Come put on that beautiful righteous Priestess dress I bought you -- bring your bible and meet with me. I have so many things to share with you",

David did not pray for Your covenant made --

"always a son of obedience to sit on the throne"

His imagination could not have even thought of such a possibility

As I seek Your face feeling like what I ask is so hard...so big.

You have loosed in heaven my unimaginable!

You have, through Christ, given me and my generations to come an inheritance

We are Priest and King -- Anointed Light

with the only requirement -- obedience to your covenants and degrees

Thank You for remembering me in your will!!!

This Agent of Salvation and Anointed Light is singing for joy!!!

At His Footstool

2010-04-06T15:45:00.000-07:00

Only a few more Pslams to go in this study...today I journal on Psalm 132.

Miss Beth notes that this psalm is referenced in 2 Chron 6:41and 42. So... I went there to check it out. Low and behold I had made notes on it as well as on a few previous and following verses. I had been studying Solomon and the building of the temple a while back. One of the things I was in awe of, is that immediately after his prayer of dedication was finished, "fire flashed down from heaven and burnt up the burnt offerings and sacrifices, and the glorious presence of the LORD filled the temple."

Now that is one dedication celebration God-planned fireworks crescendo. Would that have been a sight to behold or what!!!

By the way in Chapter 5:6 we are told that those offerings were so many in number that "no one could keep count".

Next the text describes how the people respond to the fireworks show. It says in chapter 7:3--"When all the people of Israel saw the fire coming down and the glorious presence of the LORD filling the Temple, they fell face down on the ground and worshiped and praised the LORD, saying, 'He is so good! His faithful love endures forever!'"

For me the impact-full word in that verse is the word "all". I went searching for a population number and found estimates to be around 5,000,000. This number happens to be the population of the state of Colorado in Dec of 2009...that is one gigantic party. I have to giggle thinking of modern day folks who are uncomfortable with face-down worship...you know the kind that think we evangelicals made it up as if to be dramatic in some way. Ah but perhaps it is more like Miss Beth always says..."Our God is a drama King!"

Just writing about this gets my dance-feet a tappin in anticipation for what eternity will prove in comparison to Solomon's temple dedication. I gather from references in scripture it shall be the party-planning event of events!!

"Wearing a One-Piece:on the road to Calvary"

2010-04-02T07:57:00.000-07:00

Today I want to share a blog entry from a perfect stranger who is my sister in Christ....I heart the world of blog.

God bless your weekend with joy and celebration!

Things Too Great / Like A Weaned Child

2010-03-30T09:00:00.000-07:00

The words I want to first share on the Psalm 131, are not my own:

"The same psalm that teaches us not to occupy ourselves with questions too big for us also uses the metaphor of a content toddler resting on his mother to illustrate a quieted soul. God's goal is not children scared into silence but those who trust their parent even with questions unanswered. The quieted one in Psalm 131 has not been terrified into silence. We are not the victims of God, but His cherished children." ~ Beth Moore

and

"I do not seek, O Lord, to penetrate thy depths. I by no means think my intellect equal to them: but I long to understand in some degree thy truth, which my heart believes and loves. For I do not seek to understand that I may believe, but I believe, that I may understand." ~ Anselm, an eleventh-century English monk

My Psalm 131

Abba I so very much enjoy saying the words "I do not know for sure...". This leaves the job to You for revelation of truth. Like a toddler sitting in it's mother's lap thinking "my mother knows everything." When things do not make sense to me I choose to calm myself by putting my hope in my ever so brilliant, and all knowing Jehovah -- now and forever. ~ Tink

Full Redemption

2010-03-29T12:41:00.000-07:00

The Amplified describes it as plenteous redemption...that is what those of us in Christ wait for...

full, plenteous redemption ~

Forgiveness has been given and it is amazing. So what in the crazy heck is full redemption going to be like when it comes? Apparently more anticipating than what an Old Testament night watchman had for the rising of the sun. He waited with baited breath for no more watching in the darkness...for light to open the day into full view! I pray we get to see that coming fullness-sunrise, with great joy, together.

My Psalm 130

You are that you are the "I Am" and the "Sovereign Ruler"

yet you know the sound of my voice as I call to you.

You distinguish my voice in the choir of billions

While I expectantly wait for your fullness of time, I put my hope in your love letter to me

Your plan is for full redemptions view-

plenteous redemption

If You Kept A Record

2010-03-28T12:00:00.000-07:00

This portion's study of Psalm 130 was rich for me~
I love the intimacy that begins the song, "I call to YAHWEH and He hears my voice". Which, to me, means He understands what my voice sounds like! Is that enough to halt a heart or what?

Then the psalmist uses ADONAY (also spelled ADONAI) in verse 2...another one of God's great names. Both names used in one song, for me, display intimate understanding of God's multifaceted-ness.

God is YAHWEH, Jehovah, the "I am who I am", the self-existent God. God is also Master and Superior, Sovereign Ruler over all!! That my God, has so many distinct characteristics...blows my mind!

Next the song denotes the free inheritance God gives...He gives forgiveness. What I love about this portion is the "if You (God) considered sins, who could stand?" part. What a statement of pardon. When I accept the pardon, no consideration of my sins is marked...they are erased...become non-existent!!! Seriously, I have no words to describe how this makes me feel, unbelievable is not sufficient~

Verse 6 introduces the phrase "I wait" coupled with the words "and put my hope in His word". I find the tiny word "and" quite impact-full. This phrase tells me that waiting does not work correctly without the hope in what He took the time to wrote down...scripture. So while I wait, putting my hope in His word, some may ask: What am I waiting for? I think tomorrow's lesson may address that question, I can't wait ~

Also, before I close this post out... I have great news - my sister is engaged!

Nedra I Miss You!

2010-03-25T19:05:00.000-07:00

Who is Nedra? Why she is my former Red Hat Queen~

Nedra has recently relocated to California and I am having a Nedra moment!

I met sweet Nedra (pictured below on the right next to her Vice Queen Maxine) at curves. It must have been about 2003. In 2005 I decided to, beg, her to let my bff and I join her Red Hat group.

We wanted to be Pinkies. Why? Because we discovered that Pinkies get graduation ceremonies when they turn 50 at which time they then become

Official Red Hatters!

Here she is 2008 at a Red Hat convention during the Queen procession

Who, but sweet Nedra, can make you want to construct a necklace out of tampons?

...and slippers out of kotex, garnised by tampon flowers

One day...in a few years bff and I will grow up and graduate from Pinkies to Red Hatters....Nedra you better fly up for our graduation...it will not be the same without you!!!

They Have Not Prevailed & To Be Heard

2010-03-11T20:09:00.000-08:00

This psalm study I learned:

God will give His cup of fury to those who walk or have walked on my back

(Isiah 49:25)

and

"...sometimes an important part of praying is simply being heard."

(most times in my prayer life)

My Psalm 129

From my earliest youth, oppression surrounded me -

Thank you Jesus that none of it has prevailed. In fact You have, and continue, to use it for good!

Yahweh, you are loyal, You have cut the cords the dark forces of evil have used to bind me.

Let all who hate you Oh God, be put to shame and defeated...withered, empty and unblessed by You!

"Blessing is inherent in the power to increase." ~ Eugene Peterson

2010-03-11T16:55:00.000-08:00

Psalm 128's study this week just tripped my trigger!!!

Not a big surprise, given that I adore growth/increase so very, very, much. Miss Beth brought to light an inspiring parallel for me in this lesson...the parallel of God's command (Gen 1:27-28) to His first Adam and his bride Eve. They were to be fruitful and multiply. I do not think it was only a sexual kind of fruitful, however, for their offspring to increase they would indeed be having some sex. Sex requires physical connectedness.

Stay with me here...

Jesus final face-to-face command to his disciples (Matt 38:19) was also an increase directive. They were to go and make disciples of all nations. This bearing of fruit command requires a connectedness as well. God's last Adam (1 Cor 15:45), tells them (the Bride of Christ) that in order to be productive they must stay connected to Him. He uses the analogy of the vine and the branches...it takes connectedness to Jesus to bring increase to His kingdom.

It is a simple parallel, yet very profound to me...not in the concepts but in the constancy in scripture between the old and the new testaments. One of my favorite things about God is His amazing life manual....His breath authored gift of usefulness for teaching, correcting, and training righteousness.

Heres to a universe full of fruit as a result of those who choose to abide.

Vain Labor & A Heritage From The Lord

2010-03-09T11:13:00.000-08:00

My Psalm 127

Tink, if you decide to fire those make-shift sub-contractors of yours who only play with sticks;

I am ready and able to build your custom dream life, with zero percent interest and no money down.

Don't even consider hiring ADT for security...

they nap while I guard anyway, you will be wasting your money.

Remember that burning the candle at both ends robs you of the rest that I enjoy seeing you live in --

because I love you so greatly.

Your children are your best gift,

you can count on the legacy I am building through them.

They are arrows for My Kingdom,

even if all you sometimes see is plastic toy suction darts.

You are all five blessed and empowered to broom spiritual aggression

off the front porch of your lives.

Enjoy this song praising the Master Builder himself!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sqy1a_Gz0zQ

To Laugh Again & Sowing The Seed

2010-03-07T09:01:00.000-08:00

Today, Psalm 126 ~
Exiles Returned...but from where? At the time it was written the reference was Israel being set free from Babylonian captivity...they were finally allowed to return home to Jerusalem.

I have never been captured and hauled off to a physical land, enslaved and oppressed there. I have been in a spiritual way though.
The laughter was so refreshing when I was freed. As I began to learn to walk in my new freedom....my "after laughter" rang with appreciation and wisdom of knowing that I had not been freed by accident or in vain. I am not sure that anyone earthly noticed my return, or shouted for joy when they saw me but I sure did.

The Psalmist records a bit different situation here...those returning from captivity were a generation older. Those who had been left behind had endured 40 years of separation...40 years of longing for their friends and family members to return.

I have had personal experience of being the one left behind from the captured...left longing for my loved ones return to their proverbial home land. I endured gut wrenching sorrow watching my oldest daughter be hauled away from us spiritually. I have known no pain like it...it is indescribable. There were days that I felt like I was being suffocated in agony. The first nine months were the most difficult, and as time passed some of it did get easier. I adjusted, eventually, to the separation. I still longed and prayed and prayed and prayed, hoping for the day of days, when I would see the face that had been masked over with prodigal. Grace did not allow me to wait 40 years for her return, it was shy of 3, but it felt like forever! My "after laughter" in this situation still rings with shouts of joy! It was a dream too good to be true!

If only the story ended there--right? But no -- I still have a few exiles I am longing for. Accepting the separation, for me, does not come with out injury from wrestling. I go to the mat with God over such loss...He meets me there and gets all sweaty with me, waiting for me to surrender it to Him. Finally... I am so exhausted from keeping my shoulders off the ground....then it comes -- "pinned" -- trust surrendered.
I can't wait for "after laughter" of these particular longings...I am going to shout for joy, and my mouth will be filled with laughter!!!!

He Surrounds His People & A Love That Surrounds

2010-03-03T11:13:00.000-08:00

Day one defined the word trust in verse one as: confident, secure, and sure. As I was diving into the lesson I thought "oh this is going to be good...I am going to most likely get to see a new area of trust to be conquered for God."

You can say it....it won't hurt my feelings. I am one weird woman! Who actually gets excited about finding lack in herself, especially before it is actually found, and in-particularly when it relates to trust of God?????

I'm sorry I just love to grow...I am a growth addict - I confess.

By the end of the lesson, however, I had not come to any such conclusions. Then guilt started to speak... "sure...way to stay in denial girlfriend -- you HAVE to be kidding, no one feels all three of those things towards God at the same time."

Then the tug-of-war began:
Are you in denial or are you actually in trust? Oh the wars my head can wage...knock it off!

I decided to move to day two and progress. The focus was God surrounding those who trust in Him. Thankfully I can say I feel this to be true in my life...I feel surrounded by Him!
Though I am educated enough to know that even if I did not feel surrounded, it would not discount the truth that I am surrounded. It just sooooooooo trips my trigger that I do feel His encampment around me. It is a feeling of security that I do not feel anywhere else in my life...a feeling of such deep, personal devotion--unearned yet freely lathered all over me.

My Psalm 125 vs 1-3

I, Tink, am confident, sure and secure in my God

Because of this trust. His promise to me is that I will not be shaken or defeated... just as unshakable as Mt Zion

I am surrounded with God's protection now and always

The fists of the wicked may never violate what God has ordained as mine

I could not personalize vs 4 or 5 --the words banishment and remove prevented me.

My wars are with spiritual enemies who are banished already.

Living post-resurrection, the consequences for evil doers can look much different than in old testament times. God is Just on both sides of the cross and He administrates His justice on both sides of the cross, however in Christ's crucification, sin for all was purchased at one time...free justice for all was rendered. All a person has to do is accept it, evil doers and do gooders alike. Banishment from God forever is easily avoided on this side of the cross. In Christ we were given the mother of all lottery tickets...the kind you find on the ground and never paid for, yet is worth a zillion-trillion-million dollars!!

If The Lord Had Not & Praise The Lord

2010-03-01T09:19:00.000-08:00

It was a very busy week...I got behind in my study so this time I combine both days lessons on Psalm 124 which focused on looking at what my life may have looked like had God not intervened and on God's promises--due to His being on my side... as opposed to just putting up with me.

My favorite concept in this lesson is -- God will risk being misunderstood in order to accomplish....that He knows when something glorious in the future necessitates something difficult in the present! Loved it so much!

My Psalm 124

If the LORD had not been on my side

O how different my life would be

Had He not been willing to train me out of my self righteous armor - the additional destruction would be immense

If the LORD had not been on my side when Satan had his power plays set up against me;

Approval addiction would be my god

I would have been swallowed into a divorce

I would be engulfed in legalism

The raging waters of dysfunction and shame would have swept my life, as I know it, away

Praise the LORD who has not allowed me to cooperate with Satan's Gang..their sharped-toothed,
fang-owning, mouth's were loosed from around my neck

the curtain was torn and I am free to fly in Jesus name
**

Much Contempt

2010-03-01T08:57:00.000-08:00

Have I mentioned here in my little 30 day journaling challenge, that studying the Psalms while in a fairly mountain top season of life...is weird to my brain! I am growing more fond of the oddity, and get excited to view the next lesson without the heaviness of valley walk emotions.

This lesson focused on what causes the gaze to be upward toward God asking for mercy...contempt or better translated - ridicule. I lapped this lesson up! Thank you Miss Beth!

My Psalm 123

I wish I could see your throne - hear the accompanied praises of heaven singing your due honor.

Therefore I lift my eyes up to heaven just in case the chance of it parting and exposing your physical view is granted. I need your kindness Abba

I am not as attentive toward you as a servant girl to her mistress. My attentions are drawn away from you so easily.

But - O God, how I long to focus and I cry for your mercy

I am weary from a world that oozes disrespect

I know it rubs off on me sometimes without even my notice

I am fed up with it's game - defeat

I want to be free from it's consequences - division
**

The Enthroned One

2010-03-01T08:41:00.000-08:00

Today Miss Beth's lesson on Psalm 123 stabbed my heart...the line in the Psalm using the analogy of a servant girl looking to the hand of her mistress brought me conviction. The closest thing in my life too being a handmaiden of mistress, is working at the quilt shop. At my job, I am very interested in what it is my boss wants me to be doing every single minute that I am there under her employ. In my walk with God I settle more for a position (sadly) of: I am here...I am willing to listen when your direction comes. I see such a stark difference. One says I won't make a move till you give me direction, the other says I will move when directed.

Also, thanks to this lesson I was given a deeper layer of understanding of God's enthronement and that nothing operates outside God's sovereign rule...NOThing. It is a truth I know - duh God is the King...but to gain a deeper still ownership of it rawks my world.

Does the direction of my attention desire to settle it's focus on the presently enthroned King of Kings? My attentions are so easily prostituted by my un-submitted fears and doubts...LORD turn my head toward You! Love, Your Daughter

Oh - Happy Day!

2010-02-28T09:18:00.000-08:00

Two Years Ago Today - God orchestrated a surgery allowing us to grow a bit older together...

Awesome is His name!
Happy Cancer-free bday Fairborn Guy!

My Own House, My Own City

2010-02-24T09:55:00.000-08:00

My Psalm 122

When my husband agreed "Let us go to the Bayside house of God to worship", my heart leaped for joy

It had been six long years without a church home.

Now we are here inside these unfamilair walls built as a place for worship -- I cried

"Knit me into this place Oh God"

To give thanks to the name of GOD - this is what I treasure about being a follower of Christ;

fitting perfectly-imperfectly together for worship and ministry.

The alter may be modern day, but the Throne of God's mercey seat is called down upon this body of believers as we sing songs penned throughout scripture.

I will pray for Kingston's peace and prosperity for Bayside lovers too.

May we all choose to get along.

I renounce hostile outsiders - keep your distance.

For Your Great Name's sake, my King, I'll do my very best for you here!

The Peace of Jerusalem

2010-02-17T14:39:00.000-08:00

Miss Beth's lesson one of two on Psalm 122 alludes me but I am drawn to a phrase in verse 3 of the NLT translation~

knit together

The Amplified translation, which happens to be my favorite one to read, uses the phrase~

compacted together

Thinking about the parallels between the physical ancient city vs the body of believers in Christ Jesus being compacted and knit together, brings goose bumps.
Another comparison:
Jerusalem means city of peace ~ Jesus is the Prince of Peace

Oh how I pray you know His peace and experience the knitting of soul to your brothers and sisters in Christ!

The Lord Is Your Shelter

2010-02-16T13:11:00.000-08:00

My Psalm 121~
I look out at the vast waters does my help come from there?
My help comes from the LORD who made the heavens and earth.
He will not let me stumble and fall, He who watches over me will not sleep and does not tire.
He does not outsource my care to someone else. He stands beside me as a protective shade.
Where my fears and evil threaten my life, my King preserves me.
He is committed to me forever more!

My Keeper...

2010-02-11T09:00:00.000-08:00

My Steppin'up journey today focused on verse 5...aka God's protection. I enjoyed learning that many scholars believe this psalm to have been sung by the dispersed Jews as they make long journey home. This picture helped me come back to viewing a bigger picture.

Dreaded little details can be trouble for me in day to day life...they stress me out. I feel pressure to train myself to notice and keep track of details or I will miss something or mess something up. I think that is why I like studying scripture so much. Oddly in this area my head enjoys finding dreaded little details; heres how I think it works for me. When reading along I may get intrigued by something small. I don't feel pressure to understand it, but rather, freedom to just dig and see what I can find out about it. I am not always satisfied with my dig, nor do all my questions get answered...my bible is full of question marks in the margins, but the rabbit-trails toward details equal fun for me!

This morning I became interested in the construction of the psalm, apparently there are 58 syllables preceding the Hebrew phrase in verse 5 translated "Yahweh is your keeper", and 58 syllables following it. OH the questions this brings up....

Since the author of this psalm can not be confirmed, was this person really into math?
I wonder if a woman penned it as she awaited her husband to return from business or perhaps war. Maybe she slipped it to her husband after a great night of pleasure. (can you tell I watched soap operas as a kid)
Was the number 58 significant?
Do Old Testament believers laugh out loud in heaven because we botch-up their beautiful song's melody? This thought then spins me to pondering what the choirs of heaven really sound like.

You see what I mean?

Where was I? Oh...back to the picture of this song being sung on route toward God, weather toward the homeland after exile or in pilgrimage to the Temple for the yearly feasts. I told myself to focus on that picture and let the little questions pandering my brain go. I chose to imagine the massive crowd walking together and singing in faith about God's character in spite of possible insecurities or circumstances... like the scorching sun.

Personal application for me: as I march toward my Keeper... protection rules! no matter how much my eyes or insecurities doubt. And -- sometimes singing a song really loudly in a large crowd is exactly what will aid me re-grip my faith when my heart longs to doubt.

Woe to me..

2010-02-10T09:04:00.000-08:00

…which for lack of a better word translates-- whining! The focus here is on the act of going to God verbally, which to me means out loud, with my people/place/thing beefs.

Interestingly, a few months ago I was invited to share at a MOPS meeting at my church. The topic God helped me scratch out for them dealt with the passion I feel toward learning how to freely do what I call a thrown whine. Don’t worry; I am not going to share the speech…not today anyway. lol

I shared with them that I believe the earlier this practice is ingrained in the life of a Christ following mom, the less deconstruction she will partake in. Oh that I had I learned much earlier than I have, the thrown whine!

My Psalm 120~

*at the end of each two day stint on each psalm, Miss Beth asks me to write out my own rendition of that psalm

In my emotional places I throw a Hissie Fit before God,

waiting to breath in His answer:

“Deliver me from everything that hinders truth

in my life, expose the sweet smiles that lie

even if they are my own.”

You promise to punish liars...keep me from forgetting this!!

I am doomed to live in a world that despises you

having no longing for peace...it keeps on warring.

In my distress~

2010-02-09T15:02:00.000-08:00

Pardon these few words of declaration…but "this feels weird"…I want the comfort of my pencil and lined paper or journal instead of this oddity I decided to try. Do you ever do that…wonder why you decided to do something? Anyway, here I go!

Worship on the Way~

I see this lesson as the focus of approaching my distress honestly and seeing the Psalms as a mirror to the emotions in my life. This does not happen to be an exercise that I choose to forgo…I am comfortable with my emotions and have gotten much practice at unpeeling them in pursuit of the root culprit. The process does not always happen quickly but deep within me is the desire to investigate the thing and determine if it is worthy of uprooting. Miss Beth offers me a tasty little commentary note on The Psalms by John Calvin that I so very much enjoy.

“The varied and resplendent riches which are contained it this treasury it is no easy matter to express in words; so much so, that I well know that whatever I shall be able to say will be far from approaching the excellence of the subject. But as it is better to give to my readers some taste, however small, of the wonderful advantages they will derive from the study of this book, than to be entirely silent on the point, I may be permitted briefly to advert to a matter, the greatness of which does not admit of being fully unfolded. I have been accustomed to call this book, I think not inappropriately, “An Anatomy of all the Parts of the Soul;” for there is not an emotion of which any one can be conscious that is not here represented as in a mirror. Or rather, the Holy Spirit has here drawn to the life all the griefs, sorrows, fears, doubts, hopes, cares, perplexities, in short, all the distracting emotions with which the minds of men are wont to be agitated.”

I loved so much his wording “An anatomy of all the parts of the soul”! I think I will pop over to Google…I want to read more of what he has written. Oh gee...the document is full, that is for sure, too full to address here but this next portion I loved:

“The other parts of Scripture contain the commandments which God enjoined his servants to announce to us. But here the prophets themselves, seeing they are exhibited to us as speaking to God, and laying open all their inmost thoughts and affections, call, or rather draw, each of us to the examination of himself in particulars in order that none of the many infirmities to which we are subject, and of the many vices with which we abound, may remain concealed. It is certainly a rare and singular advantage, when all lurking places are discovered, and the heart is brought into the light, purged from that most baneful infection, hypocrisy. In short, as calling upon God is one of the principal means of securing our safety, and as a better and more unerring rule for guiding us in this exercise cannot be found elsewhere than in The Psalms, it follows, that in proportion to the proficiency which a man shall have attained in understanding them, will be his knowledge of the most important part of celestial doctrine”.

“…purged from the most baneful infection, hypocrisy.” Perfectly stated Mr. Calvin…I know very well how that infection impedes.

Prayer~

Abba I long never to tired of the process of examination to the point of discontinuing it’s “advantage”….”securing my safety” within our relationship. Safety from NOT growing permanently passive and resistant or hard hearted and prideful; from these things you have full permission to access my heart and soul in inventory…I trust you fully so ignore my fears and whining by your mercy. Amen

P.S. That was not as bad as it felt like it would be…we’ll see if I can be faithful to this for the entire 30 days…oops, I forgot to mention the time frame yesterday. J

I Aint Stayin Here...

2010-02-08T18:48:00.000-08:00

Today was another reminder of how much I gain when I reach outside my Tink centered world for great teaching. The risk being; not always is the teaching all that great, however my heart is overwhelmed by how many times God has given me exactly what I needed for the season I am headed, via other people.

I shall cut it real here...I was not excited about a Monday morning study. Monday's are typical "get centered for the week" days for me. I tackle paper work and phone calls and laundry and books I want to be studying. The day of the week aside, I jumped at the subject matter--Psalms. A study of psalms...oh my heart be still!!

The particular psalms of focus will be 120-134...the fifteen psalms of ascent that were sung in pilgrimage to Mt Zion for particular celebration feasts. I had been curious a few months ago. I wanted to know about these ascent songs when I noticed the wording ascent in notation in my bible. I dug around a bit but then got distracted from my dig...not uncommon with my brain at all. So today when I discovered that God was bringing me back to my digging ground...well you can imagine my delight!

I decided that rather than my regular long hand, journal tradition; during this study of ascent, I will try to journal here. It seems fitting since the focus will be pilgrimage...and you know what that means friends. Pilgrimage means movement...hence the title of this blog.

Oy Vey...how dreaded that word movement can play out in a life that longs for warmth and security and everything tied up in pretty little homey packages. Oh...don't get me wrong, I like adventure... but the kind where I have a warm cozy home to refuge my adventurous soul in, after my adventure is DONE!

I have a feeling the movement I am about to partake in will be the kind where going back "home", in an emotional sense, is not going to feel very cozy. Sometimes going forward means never going back so to speak.

I am excited to learning a few new songs to sing along my ascent up...put in your ear plugs cuz I sing a bit sharp.

By Golly...a reception in honor of us "Knotty Girls"!

2010-02-06T21:00:00.000-08:00

I am one of 8 Knotty Girl members...

We meet monthly to enjoy each others quilting projects

and often do group quilt challenges.

One such challenge was a personal round robin, with each round having a parameter.

We were invited to display this challenge at a local Gallery...I think that means we are now

famous!

Miss Diane's piece

Miss Wanda's piece

Miss Trish's piece

Miss Gretchen's piece

Miss Cindy's piece

Miss Cheater's piece

My little displayed quilt is not actually from our KG round robin challenge.

I have not finished...it sits in the UFO pile waiting to be complete.

My displayed quilt was however, from a challenge I did complete in 2003 for a

Marcus Brothers "Aunt Grace Through The Year" Quilt Challenge.

Some day it shall belong to my future first grandchild!!

Watch out world...the Ya Yas are headed to our annual beach bash!!

2010-01-31T19:59:00.000-08:00

May the refreshment of our love for each other and the joy of our Lord satisfy us to overflowing~

"To think of shadows is a serious thing" ~ Victor Hugo

2010-01-20T21:49:00.000-08:00

Odd Shots Monday

2010-01-18T19:51:00.000-08:00

My friend at Katney's Kaboodle hosts
"Odd Shots On Monday". I enjoy
watching all that is odd!

Can you guess what we girls in this
photo are "up" too?

Sometimes photos require "you just
had to be there" captions...this is
indeed one of those photos.

Cracking myself up......

The true way to render ourselves happy is to love our work and find in it our pleasure. ~ Francoise De Motteville

2010-01-07T22:09:00.000-08:00

I have the best job evah!!! Working at the perfect place affords me many delights.

Beautiful fabric to touch

Meeting and learning from talented artists

Patterns and Books to keep my dreamy, quilty, head spinning with new project ideas

and...

because the shop is a Handi Quilter Representative I have been trained to use the shop's

Handi Quilter Avante

Pin the quilt back to the leaders

This is the quilt top. It is a One Block Wonder project from a Kaffe fabric I found interesting

Zip the leaders with the back onto the machine

A shot from the underside

Batting laid on...horizontal stitch - Top laid on...horizontal stitch - Choose pattern from computer - Calculate repeats - Skew to fit - Find starting place - Quilt

So cool...right?

Don't you just want one????

Do Or Do Not, There Is No Try

2010-01-04T00:31:00.000-08:00

Tonight was a night of cross roads...do I or don't I

I toiled and cried and prayed and decided:

don't

John I pray your pre-trial hearing goes exactly as God desires...as He takes great care of you.

Remember this photo op? It was taken only a few short years before we rallied as a family for your intervention. That intervention was sadly not successful.

Praying for your bottom Bro...I love you~

Circa 1985ish

Celebrating Bye Bye 09~Hello 2010

2009-12-31T23:53:00.000-08:00

Plexi Glass, Phone Recievers and Miracles

2009-12-31T00:34:00.000-08:00

No cell phones no cameras aloud...locker to house them while inside
Step through the metal detector
Ask for directions
Fill out pink appointment slip
Stand in line
Show ID and pink slip
Wait for clearance
Oops the jail is in lock down...sorry we can not tell you when it will be unlocked
Cold waiting area with families of other inmates...most are regulars here...one, like me is a first timer
Children playing with toys from back packs...I want to see daddy now
An hour later doors open
Show more ID
Filthy Plexiglas window station with black old style phone receiver
Slather with Purel
Wait
Batch of inmates escorted in...I know no one
Second batch marches in...still no familiar faces
I wish he knew I was coming
Third batch...there he is...here he comes
Sweet expressions of gaping distance yet closeness
Small talk first
Frustration and Denial...still
Whats that?...you mention God...your reading scripture?
You've never seen "The Sound of Music"...but I watched it every year
Suddenly...a recollection never had...we have yet to watch a movie or tv show together
I sing to him..."rain drops on roses and whiskers on kittens..."
We laugh
Then he asks..."How is Dad?"
Here it comes again...that look of broken hearted of shame
I whisper with tears in my eyes "you are loved...God is here"
We say our goodbyes
Ferry ride home
Night has fallen parking lot dark
Turn radio on
_____
By Selah~ Unredeemed

The cruelest world
The coldest heart
The deepest wound
The endless dark
The lonely ache
The burning tears
The bitter nights
The wasted years

Life breaks and falls apart
But we know these are
Places where grace is soon to be so amazing
It may be unfulfilled
It may be unrestored
But when anything that's shattered is laid before the Lord
Just watch and see
It will not be unredeemed

For every choice that led to shame
And all the love that never came
For every vow that someone broke
And every lie that gave up hope
We live in the shadow of the fall
But the cross says these are all
Places where grace is soon to be so amazing
It may be unfulfilled
It may be unrestored
But when anything that's shattered is laid before the Lord
Just watch and see
It will not be unredeemed

Places where grace is soon to be so amazing
It may be unfulfilled
It may be unrestored
But you never know the miracle the Father has in store
Just watch and see
It will not be
Just watch and see
It will not be unredeemed
____

Not Even A Mouse

2009-12-23T22:01:00.000-08:00

Tis the night before, the night before Christmas, and all through the house, not a snap shot is stirring, not even a Cyber-Shot.

December Baby's Declaration Ammendment

2009-12-16T19:22:00.000-08:00

I think it has been about ten years now...ten years since this crazy December birthday girl made a birthday switch request.

"I would like to move my birthday please!" "I would like it to be May 15th please!".

It is with great excitement that I, hear and now, in public and in sound mind, declare that,

my birthday be officially moved back to it's originalness...ie December 15th.

Come on...really people...if a girl can move her birthday, she can surely move it back!!

In honor of this declaration I share with you photos of me at the birhtday party my step mother lovingly threw for me in 2004. I adore the glitter photo frame holding my 3rd grade school head shot.

Happy New But Original Birthdate Upcoming Too ME!!!!

It is a cold December night...I shall break my blog silence with this.

2009-12-14T00:10:00.000-08:00

"Character isn't inherited. One builds it daily by the way one thinks and acts, thought by thought, action by action. If one lets fear or hate or anger take possession of the mind, they become self-forged chains."

~Author Unknown~

Sunglasses

2009-09-19T19:47:00.000-07:00

Where did the summer go? That is the question I keep pondering today. The forecast was for sunshine however I awoke to soggy drizzle and thickly clouded skies. I pulled on my Crocs rain boots, a cosy polar fleece, and soft denim jeans rather than summer's standby Capri's and flip flop attire. It felt strange and familiar at the same time. I think it is time to dig through my wardrobe and beef up the sweat shirt supply.

A few days before the puppies turned 6 weeks old, while bathing them I injured my lower back. I had great plans for post-puppy days, immobility was not one of them. Two weeks of chiro appointments and massage therapy appointments transitioned me enough to enjoy a week long family vacation in Central Oregon. I was even able to conquer a hike. Somewhere in between these events, I also started a new job at the Kingston Quilt shop. Now here it is past mid September. Like I said, "where did summer go?".

When life gets hectic or full my blogging is the first thing to get set aside. When Cindy starts to make comments about how long it has been since I have posted a blog, I know it has been quite a while. :) Funny but when those lulls come, I miss it. I miss the creative process of playing with an online journal/photo record of my life progressions.

In honor of summer's end -- I will share a few sunglasses memories gone by:

20 Questions for Townhall | HOME

2009-08-26T16:04:00.000-07:00

20 Questions for Townhall HOME

I know...it has been a while and now this silly political post...how boring, right?

Sorry Dear Reader, but a braveheart has gotta do what she has gotta do. :)

Puppies are gone, my back has been out..thanks to the stinky- pooping-adorable puppies, however I am enjoying the last days of summer by hitting the Chiropractor and Massage Therapist a couple times a week. I am also very much enjoying my new job which will be an upcoming blog for certain.

So I leave you with a few questions that I found worth pondering and printing out for that town hall meeting I plan on limping to next week.
Happy End of Aug 09 all, may it's last bit of memories be full of summer joy and abundant harvests...both physical and spiritual.

Who says playpens are outdated?

2009-08-14T21:55:00.000-07:00

Though we are having June in Aug and had Aug in June, Tuesday the sunshine came out for about an hour...this is how I celebrated it!!!!

Let The Weaning Begin

2009-08-08T18:46:00.000-07:00

The least favorite of my six week puppy journey has arrived...it is time to begin the weaning process. No more sweet puppy smells of joy when snuggling with them.

They will now smell like smeared food and waste unless I bathe them.

I slept in till 10:15 this morning, I think it was an attempt to avoid the inevitable.

Eventually Fairborn Guy and I went to the store for instant Goat's Milk. When I arrived home I prepared the baby swimming pool outside for my feeding area and quickly peaked out the front door to see if Fairborn Guy wanted to watch the pups get their first taste of food. I was delighted to spy my sweet neighbor Junne walking by so I flagged her into the back yard to join me in the fun.

All 5 were ravenous

Had to snap a quick shot of me with my weaning witness before she continued on her walk.

Thanks for joining me Junne...you little shy thing you!

Boundaround

Happy Bday TO Me! 50 is the best bday evah!

It started with a sunrise…

Merry Christmas

5 months of pre-matrimony preparations…

44 days to go~

Another Milestone

Normally we would have tank tops…

Announcement Announcement Announcement

Palm Sunday

Miss Sami Goes to Omak Saturday

Then I read the word “Beware”

In the parking lot of church today I was smacked in the face (not literally) with what has become a reoccurring frustration of mine. Ok… “frustration” is not the word I mean…reoccurring blood-boiling is more like it.

My blood boils in the effort to protect, to guard and to keep at bay those whom, for what ever reason, seem to consistently stir up trouble and division.

I know that I am powerless to do such a thing but my heart beats with passion for healthy relationships, personal as well as body-of-Christ relationships.

In the heat of my blood-boiling I decided to go do some research. I’ll show them…reason number one. I’ll find a tool that will help train – say a book or an article to “share” that could so perfectly apply to the person situation…reason number two.

So I clicked on over to the Peacemaker web site. I love the resources of their ministry! There were some new resources and some links to blogs—oh how I love blogs.

As I was clicking away on the blog links I found one of them to be quite humorous. You see as I was reading it I heard God speak to my heart a shepherding tone--

“ Rhonda, remember that this Peacemaker ministry is needed because conflict always exists, which is not the same as it being needed in order to prevent conflict from existing.”

Humbled, I again, face my flawed thinking that longs for perfection here on earth. So I whisper a prayer…..

Praying also that I learn more and more how to be part of solutions rather than part of an illusions.

Tink~

Binding is all that is left

I Got a Big-God-Hug of Miss Beth Moore on Friday

Majestic splendor

emanates from

Him

HE is the source of strength and joy

4 road trips inside of 36 days

Today was the silver anniversary of our local quilt guild's quilt show. Bff and I found ourselves inside a quilt, can you guess which one?

Priceless Recharge Ya Ya Style

Trust…beaten down

Joining the ranks of the “Siestas”

Vlog Amateurs

Dawning of 2011 ( via my Panasonic DMC-FS15)

Happy New Year!

Ahhh the ole New Year's turning and I need a personal challenge syndrome

My Mouthy Mumbling Now Muted!

Nov/Dec moments worth documenting

From Blogging Pause to Play

Last The Best Of All The (Labradoodle) Game!

www.kingstondooles.com

Post Outdoor Play Time Naps In The Bathtub

Labradoodle Love at 5 Weeks Old

I changed my blog skin to match my, thankfully lifting, mood of the past two weeks. Or has it been all summer?

Kingston Labradoodles is on its way...

Midsummer musings from my horizontal perspective

In Honor Of Her Service - You Are Cordially Invited To Attend

2400 resolution is too high for Costco photo online...who knew?

Happy Birthday Too You~

Today's walk

Pixie Dust Is At It Again

If she knew....

Divalessness

Six-hundred Pounds Put To Death

Ya Ya for Vashon ~

*chest puffs up with pride*

Challenge to myself: Accomplished

A United Family Of Man/United Family Of God & Bless the LORD/The LORD Bless You

My Psalm 132

At His Footstool

"Wearing a One-Piece:on the road to Calvary"

Things Too Great / Like A Weaned Child

Full Redemption

If You Kept A Record

Nedra I Miss You!

They Have Not Prevailed & To Be Heard

"Blessing is inherent in the power to increase." ~ Eugene Peterson

Vain Labor & A Heritage From The Lord

To Laugh Again & Sowing The Seed

He Surrounds His People & A Love That Surrounds

If The Lord Had Not & Praise The Lord

Much Contempt

The Enthroned One

Oh - Happy Day!

My Own House, My Own City

The Peace of Jerusalem

The Lord Is Your Shelter

My Keeper...

Woe to me..

chest puffs up with pride