Bearing Life

Bloom where you're planted

2010-01-12T18:31:00.004-05:00

Queen Esther. I love that story! Esther was just an ordinary girl who happened to be in the right place at the right time. Although, I wonder if she looked at it that way. I wonder if she thought it was actually the wrong place at the wrong time?

She didn't choose to be taken to the palace and go through beauty regiments for a year. Total pampering is great for awhile, actually wonderful, but a year? Come on. Wouldn't even the most vile person be beautiful after that?

The king chose her. She didn't choose to be queen. Life as a queen - ah. Servants. Your every wish granted. Would life become boring with nothing to do all day? The fame and responsibility would be way too much for me. Never being able to chill with no makeup in over-sized sweats and a comfy sweatshirt? Hmm . . . I wonder if she missed her normalcy back home with her cousin?

She certainly didn't choose the mystery in which she suddenly found herself. Maybe that aspect of the story intrigues me. I've always loved a good mystery. This one was a life and death story for the young heroine. The king's right-hand man plotted to kill all the Jews, including her cousin, just because he didn't like them. They wouldn't show him the respect he felt he deserved. Besides, they were different with strange customs! What a reason to have one someone killed! He wanted the whole race annihilated.

What he didn't know was that the new Queen was one of them. Cue the mysterious music. Dun dun dun. What would she do? What could she do? She wasn't even allowed to talk to her husband at risk of death unless he decided it was ok. I bet a lot of men wish they could have his scepter and power to do that - to control when and how long the women in their life could talk to them!

Her cousin encourages her to do the unthinkable. Go talk to your hubby. Tell him of the plot. Save our people. Yeah, right - like he'll believe her over his top man. Then, her cousin takes it a step farther and reminds her, "Maybe you were made queen for such a time as this." (Esther 4:14) WOW! Do you have someone in your life that does that - always expects more from you?

What would you do at this point? I'd like to believe that I would have the courage to do the unthinkable - to do whatever it took to fulfill my part in God's plan. Honestly though, I'd be terrified. But, I still choose to believe that I would do it because as I tell kids: courage doesn't mean you don't get scared. It just means you do what needs to be done even if you are scared.

Queen Esther, in great heroine fashion, holds a banquet for her husband and the top-dude villain. I don't know if she chickened out the first night or not. The king offered to give her anything she wanted - even up to half the kingdom! What happened? Did she let her fears overtake her? Whatever happened, she took a deep breath and . . . invited them over again the next day.

Again the king offered her the more-than-generous gift. He probably thought she wanted jewels or that special something to make her smile. What she asked for surprised him - her life! The plot unravels quickly now. Like a good mystery writer though, I am not going to ruin the end of the story. My sister has already gotten on my case for that with my books!

Esther didn't choose the circumstances surrounding her life. But, she did choose to do what God wanted. He placed her there at just the right time. Ever heard of 'Bloom where you're planted?' I recall my mom telling me that several times when I moved to southern Ohio. That's what our girl, Esther, did - she bloomed where she was planted with courage and grace. I think that's what that means. That's what I always want to do.

My mom would be proud.

Has this ever happened to you?

2010-01-10T18:22:00.003-05:00

Have you ever awakened with so many cares that you couldn't go back to sleep? Being a natural worrier, I am really good at worrying. I know I shouldn't. I don't want to do it, but it happens more than I care to admit.

The other morning, I awoke several hours before the alarm. My mind was full of worry for others. One I already knew was going to be ok, but the devil came at me with the fears of 'what if'. Another, I didn't have any idea if it would ever work out with a happy ending for this person. These led into concern for lots of people with sicknesses, no jobs, and many other issues. I even worried about worrying. On and on it went until I felt weighted down onto my bed.

So, I got up and prayed. I prayed for each issue and each person. I asked God to help me to have faith enough to know that He was in control. I prayed until His holy peace washed over me, washing all of those fears, worries, and concerns away from me. Do I know how everything will work out in all of those situations? No. But, I know the One who will be with them and us through it all.

Then, something else happened. What I attribute to worry, may not always be so. God gave me this heart - a caring heart. I think He places these people and concerns on my heart, not so I worry about them because He and I both know that I can't fix it all. But rather, so that I will entrust them to Him.

He is peace. He will share that peace with us if we entrust our burdens and cares to Him. He will grant us that calm assurance. He is with us and in control.

Here's to a peaceful new year!

A simple question

2009-03-30T15:48:00.002-05:00

Why is the government taking money from us to give to the banks, who then MIGHT lend it back to us with interest? Does this make sense? Wouldn't it be smarter just to leave it with us in the first place?

Priorities

2009-03-24T10:31:00.003-05:00

I had the great privilege to attend Mary Kay's Career Conference in Columbus, Ohio. While the classes and speakers were inspiring and filled with tips, the reaffirmation of the company's value system struck the biggest chord with me.

What other company teaches to align your priorities with God first? "Spend quiet time with God everyday," the final speaker directed us. If your values are not in order, your business or any other area of life cannot be either. God should be first before any other aspect of your life. I have so firmly believed this, that it's no wonder this opportunity fits so perfectly. Repeatedly throughout the two day conference I heard, "Continually thank the Lord for everything you have. Until you are grateful for what you've got, He won't bless you with more." That was a new way to look at the thankfulness aspect for me.

Family is next in importance. This company offers its consultants the flexibility to be with their family. All those sporting games, illnesses, practices, etc. - you can be there and still maintain a successful business. Plus, the Mary Kay family surrounds each other with love and support through all of life's ups and downs.

Finally, we repeatedly heard about the Golden Rule philosophy of Mary Kay. Treat others as you would want to be treated. God brings people into our lives for a reason. He wants us to treat them with respect - make them feel important. Whether they are customers or not, this is a great idea for all of life.

I'm grateful for my Mary Kay opportunity and business. To be a part of a company that really cares with values that I teach my own children is encouraging and exciting. These are tough times, but this company is not feeling it - no, quite the opposite! Our company is debt free and setting incredible growth goals. For anyone interested in being part of this wonderful company, stop by my site at www.marykay.com/pfblevins, and leave me an email. I'll gladly answer your questions and share my joy with you.

What tops your priority list?

Bearing the weather

2009-01-27T18:40:00.006-05:00

I Am Mom

2009-01-16T22:22:00.002-05:00

I Am Mom

I am the organizer, planner, keeper of the calendar - Mom.
I am the chauffeur, maid, cook, the baker, and I’m sure I could learn to be the candlestick maker.
I am the cleaner of all things, including but not limited to, feces, urine, and vomit of all humans and animals residing in or visiting this home.
I’m the fix this, sign this, wash this, hold this, I need this, where is this? - Mom.
I’m the study buddy, referee, encourager, and helper.
I’m the clock, the nag, and the task-master.
I’m the let the dog out before dawn, feed him, and pull out his burrs gently - Mom.
I dust, vacuum, mop, steam-clean, and spot treat.
I transport kids and animals to school, practice, the pediatrician, the orthodontist, the vet, sporting events, or the fair.
I am the ultimate phone caller, nurse maid, editor, proofreader, and typist.
I go to recitals, concerts, games, and parent/teacher conferences.
I pick up the flying cat hair, and relocate animal and kids’ toys to prevent accidents.
I am the ‘I need money, a birthday gift for my friend, poster board, or permission slip due today’ - Mom.
What I am not is the keeper of the remote, the burper, the farter, or the boss.
I don’t get to choose the car’s radio station, eat the last cookie, or empty the ice cream container.
But, I do love hugs, smiles, kind words, and politeness.

I love tiny fingers through my hair, laughing, and encouraging.
I love to see kids work hard, enjoy life, and do their best.
I love to hang out, watch movies, and joke with my kids.
I love being a parent.
I love being Mom.

Successful landing!

2009-01-16T08:47:00.003-05:00

I've been listening to the coverage from that Hudson River "crash." All the TV stations are spending a majority of their program talking about the birds, the plane, the pilot, the crew, the response, and the passengers.

One passenger being interviewed said he didn't believe in God and that he kept his head up when the flight attendants told him otherwise. He figured if that was the end, he wanted to see where he was going.

That is so sad. I see God all over this. The plane landed successfully. EVERYONE survived. God was there. I pray that all on the plane and everyone watching can see God's signature. May He use this situation to reach more for Him.

Thank you, God!

One step at a time

2009-01-12T09:40:00.005-05:00

Ever wonder what to do? Even when I have a lot to do, I still get so overwhelmed. Where do I begin? What should I do now? It's especially hard if there are HUGE projects to tackle. Although, when there are a bunch of little, menial tasks, it's hard to be motivated too. Household chores like laundry, cleaning the toilets and sinks, collecting the trash, dishes, cooking ANOTHER dinner all can loom over me. AH! I'm getting depressed thinking about it.

It's on days like this that I remind myself to take just one step at a time. Things will get done if I am faithful and don't fall under the thought of what lies ahead.

Sometimes we spend more time worrying than actually doing, don't we? God wants us to take just one step at a time in our walk with Him too. Life is a journey, not a full-out sprint. So, let's take life and all its burdens one step at a time.

I can't let go!

2009-01-08T07:11:00.028-05:00

Our giant outside dog, Copper, loves to find two foot long, 2-3" round logs. He proudly carries his latest discovery everywhere, showing all animals and people, "See what I've got? Aren't you proud? You can't have it."

I offer him a dog bone, something he can actually eat - and he LOVES to eat, especially bones! He dances around, clearly torn between the two desires, but he will not put down the stick for the bone.

Our much smaller, inside dog, Nugent, loves his stuffed toys. A few of his favorites are a monkey, which is missing half its face and an arm from too much love, a duck that he stole from my son, and a soccer ball. He carries one of his toys, hanging out of his mouth. I offer him a bone, and his bottom begins to shake because that stub of a tail is wagging so hard with excitement.

"You can have the bone, if you put down the monkey, Nugent." I try to reason with him, but to no avail. Usually, I have to swipe the monkey to give him the bone.

Why won't they give up the toy for something better?

That always gets me thinking. How often do we do that with God? He offers us so much more - a better life, more love, more hope.

Sometimes I wonder if God wants to tell me, "Put down that fear, Paula. I've got so much more for you - beyond your wildest dreams."

There are a lot of things I hang on to that I'm sure He wants me to let go for something much better. What would he say to you? Do you have a habit, worry, or fear that need to be put down to receive His riches? Do you have a relationship or material items that need to go? Whatever it is, what God offers is so much better. He wants what is best for us.

So, let go, and receive.

Have you gotten your workout?

2009-01-07T11:02:00.003-05:00

I got quite a workout this morning. Whew! I made my dreaded grocery trip. I guess WalMart is feeling the economic crunch now too. The very pleasant check-out lady was being more careful with her bagging.

"We were told not to use so many bags. They don't have lots of money right now," she informed me.

So, she stacked already scanned products beside her until she could squeeze them into an open space in an already packed bag. Cans did not get double bagged today. I hoped they wouldn't crash through the already recycled-too-many-times bags. The bags were so full, I could only tie a few of them. Again I hoped - this time that the groceries wouldn't spill out of their bags all over my trunk.

Thankfully, none of those things happened. Instead, because the bags were doubly-full, they were naturally heavier to carry into the house. So, I got my workout and helped the economy today. Have you?

New Year babies

2009-01-03T13:45:00.006-05:00

Happy Birthday!! Jan. 1, 2009

Baby Guinea pigs

Want one?

Please?

Take the time

2008-12-16T13:40:00.003-05:00

Is your December jam-packed with parties, programs, and activities? How do you have time to even Christmas shop? Then it's time to wrap. Whew!

I was rushing around the other day just like that too. We had a Christmas party at church for the kids, nursery through fifth grade. There was a lot to do before the party even began, many unrelated things to accomplish. My prayer that morning included a request to be able to slow down enough to see God. I didn't want to miss Him in all the busyness.

After several activities, the kids and their families camped out on the floor of our worship center with their blankets, pillows, and food to watch a movie. I jumped up to check on all kids that left the area during that time. My prayer from that morning kept flashing into the forefront of my overactive mind. I was going to miss God in all of the busyness of the season if I didn't DO something.

I stretched out on our teddy bear quilt on the floor beside my son. I took a deep breath and looked around at the families, curled up together in the dark, watching the movie. That's when it happened. God was there. When I stopped DOING something, I found Him.

During this busy Advent time, join me in taking time to stop to notice God everywhere and in everything.

Merry Christmas!

New baby!

2008-11-11T11:25:00.006-05:00

Baby Minature Horse

Dusty - Born 9-25-08

Hey!

2008-09-04T16:12:00.005-05:00

Good to see you again!

Chloe

Where has time gone?

2008-08-19T07:58:00.003-05:00

The kids are back in school. Where did the summer go? It certainly flew right by me. We had a great time at Grandma's (Mongonk), at the beach with cousins (8 kids in one house!), at the county fair with the animals and many projects, and at the State fair with Rudi, the guinea pig.

Now it's quiet here. It seems easier to sense God's presence when things are calm. The busyness of life keeps us in a whirlwind. Thinking beyond where and what the kids need to be and do is difficult. For me, it's important to take a step back each day to just be with Him. It's amazing how my perspective changes then. Instead of scurrying to complete a to-do list, I can concentrate on His plans and priorities for my life. How much better life would be if I could remember that . . . .

Have you had your quiet time today?

The newest members to our zoo

2008-05-14T11:29:00.009-05:00

Here we go again . . . .

The Grass is always Greener

2008-04-21T10:13:00.004-05:00

Forty minutes after feeding the goats in the barn, they escaped. They ran the length of the far pen, shimmied under the hot wire, and scurried toward the grass on the other side - AGAIN. I watched them from inside the house. They ate and frolicked after one another, being sure that the others didn't get something better than they had.

"Ok, Nugent. They've come too far," I told my eager Yorkie. "Let's chase them back."

Nugent tore out of the garage after the goats. You would never guess that the goats were three to four times taller and heavier than the barking fur ball coming at them at lightning speed because they hurried back down the drive toward the barn.

"Mmaaaa. Baaaa," they cried. They searched for a hole under the barn door to worm their way through, then turned, and pleaded with me. It was almost as if they were saying, "Help us. How do we get back in?"

I walked slowly after them. I think they wanted me to take them through the barn door and, of course, give them some more grain in their pen. Instead, I opened the widest, outdoor gate for them. They ran to me and into the fenced-in field without hassle.

Why is the grass always greener on the other side? Their field is full of beautiful, luscious, green grass. Why do they insist on leaving the safety of their home for the possibility of something better? Don't they know that their enclosure is there to keep them from harm?

You know, we're a lot like that too. We always want something just out of reach. Why is that? We get ourselves into all sorts of trouble: financial, emotional, physical, or many other things. I'm not saying that we shouldn't have goals to aim for - we just need to be careful. We don't have the luxury of a Nugent chasing us back toward safety. Or do we?

God has given us free will. Unlike the goats, we can reason and choose between the grass here and that over there. Let's make a wise decision.

Where is your grass greener?

It's spring!

2008-04-11T09:42:00.003-05:00

It's spring! The grass is green again. The trees and flowers are budding. Gallipolis is the most beautiful during this time of year with all of the white and pink blossoms on the trees lining each avenue! Can you tell this is my favorite season?

Skiing

2008-03-17T13:20:00.004-05:00

Snowshoe Mountain

A few of the many views from our mountain perch in beautiful West Virginia!

Fellowship of Faith Transformation Station progress

2008-03-13T12:10:00.005-05:00

Outside of building - Jan. '08
Stage - Feb. 2008

Kingdom Kids room Main entrance inside looking out

First Snow of 2008

2008-01-03T13:15:00.001-05:00

The pond has a layer of ice too!

Brr . . .

School visits

2007-12-04T09:49:00.000-05:00

Thank you Southwest Licking Schools for allowing me a chance to visit and share with your wonderful and talented teachers and students. I've come to expect a great experience whenever I meet with you, and this trip was no exception. You are all awesome!

Many students were interested in writing for the upcoming Chicken Soup Cat Lover's Soul and/or the Chicken Soup Dog Lover's Soul. Other titles you might be interested in are: Football Lover's Soul, Extraordinary Teen Soul, and Celebrating Life's Most Embarassing Moments. All of these deadlines are December 31, 2008. Submit them on-line at http://www.chickensoup.com/. So, get writing, editing, and submitting. Keep me posted!

Watkins Middle School
To Mrs. Legg's sixth grade and Mrs. Ball's sixth and eighth grade classes: You were an awesome audience, full of creativity and imagination. Many of you are very gifted writers. Learn to perfect that gift and share it with others. I can't wait to see where you'll go and what you'll do in this world!

Kirkersville Elementary
Mrs. Lupidi's and Mrs. Frey's 4th grade - Your enthusiasm is contagious! The 'Reread, edit, write some more' cheer is still one of my favorites. Thanks for doing it for me. I really enjoy visiting classes with lots of questions because then I know we cover what's important to you. You all had a bunch of them! If your question didn't get answered, please drop me an email. Your love of reading and writing is apparent. Keep it up!

Mrs. Genter's 3rd grade - We had an extended time together - first you listened to me, and then I got the privilege of listening to your stories. How creative you are! Even with a surprise lock-down drill in the middle, you were all so courteous. Keep learning and improving your reading and writing skills because you have been blessed with knowledge and imagination. Thank you for a great afternoon!

Fall foliage

2007-11-10T14:18:00.000-05:00

This is the beautiful sight from our balcony. God's beauty surrounds us!

Ground breaking!

2007-11-10T14:07:00.000-05:00

It finally happened! After several years of prayer and faithful service, God's plan for our church has moved to the official groundbreaking. The drizzle stopped for the proceedings and began again as soon as we finished. Wow! Isn't it beautiful on that hillside?!

Hey! Check this out!

2007-10-30T10:34:00.000-05:00

Wow! For all my puzzling friends, go check this out! Students have suggested that I put games onto my website. Well, today I did it! Woo hoo!! It's a crossword about The Way Home - A For Hymn Mystery. YAY!

http://www.paulafblevins.com/ - Then click on GAMES.

You can make your own from eclipsecrossword.com.

It's the little things in life . . . LOL

What would you do?

2007-10-09T11:39:00.000-05:00

Another Wal-mart story (Maybe that's because I go so often, and there aren't many other choices closer than an hour trip.)

Okay, I got through Wally World in good time. I had several large purchases, so the cashier scanned them without removing them from my cart. Upon unloading the products at the car, I discovered a lone conditioner. It stood in the corner.

"Ugh. Don't tell me I missed putting that one on the conveyor belt," I sighed. From its upright position, I was pretty sure it hadn't fallen from a bag.

So, I dug through the bags to find the receipt. A quick scan revealed that indeed my conditioner had not made it through the check-out process.

Ugh. I had no cash, except one $1 bill. I didn't want to write a check for a dollar something. What should I do? I really needed that conditioner.

Let me know what you would do. I'll give you the rest of the story soon.

Here we go again!

2007-10-04T08:25:00.001-05:00

Josh's new friend

Fuzzy Lop - 2 months old

New to the Zoo

2007-10-01T10:49:00.000-05:00

Here are the latest additions to our zoo. These donkeys have delighted us as we learn about their personalities. We need help with names though. Ah! Please help! These three girls (jennies) are all friendly and love people. One is pushy and in-your-face in her attempts to get attention. Another is shy, while the third falls in the middle of the personalities.

The Stinky Day

2007-09-11T17:18:00.001-05:00

7:00 am

I come out of the shower to find Jennifer eating breakfast in the family room. Why isn't she eating at the breakfast table? As I draw closer, I suddenly discover the reason.

IT STINKS!

Something like a skunk . . . Hmm. Suddenly, Nugent greets me with a kiss. YUCK!!! Now I know. Nugent, on his morning romp, discovered a skunk. My morning plans of packing 3 lunches, getting dressed, and getting my hair and face in some sort of decent shape were shot. Nugent needed a bath NOW! Needless to say, my day started out poorly.

10:00 am

The kids have not done the dishes for several days. The milk is souring in their cereal bowls - GROSS!

Guess what!! It STINKS!!

My son needs to clean his guinea pig cages. The odor drifts through the shared vent into my bathroom and closet.

It STINKS!!

2:00 pm

I check my Mary Kay unit newsletter. HEY!!! I won $100! Woo hoo!!

The tears that come to my eyes this time are not from a foul odor. That definitely DOES NOT stink! That's down right AWESOME!! Thanks, JUDY!

5:00 pm

I sit happily checking my email, wondering if something else incredible could possibly happen on this stinky day. Nope. Another unpleasant odors permeates my nostrils. Upon further inspection, I find the cat litter needs cleaned.

Guess what! It STINKS!

7:00 pm

A huge buck is spotted chest deep in our pond. How beautiful!

Now that doesn't stink either.

God sandwiched special blessings for me in the midst of my STINKY day. He has a way of turning even stinky days into incredible ones. YAY, GOD!

Preparation

2007-08-22T13:48:00.000-05:00

The kids went back to school this week. With that came the annual back to school preparations.

We tried on clothes to see what fit. (Why do they keep growing?!) We made and gathered lists of clothing and school supplies. Because the closest large shopping area is an hour away, we made arrangements around practice schedules to have enough time to hopefully get just about everything finished. Each child, with list in hand, searched for the perfect whatever - pencils, pens, backpacks, lunch box, notebook . . . . My older two needed totally new wardrobes - they literally had nothing except maybe a few holey shirts to wear. Thankfully, the youngest didn't need clothes; his patience for apparel shopping is slim. They tried on this; they tried on that. This fit, but not in the right color. He didn't like that shirt, and there weren't any in the right size. Whew! What a day!

You know me by now . . . that got me to thinking. We spent an enormous amount of time, preparation, and money for the kids to return to school. They will outgrow the clothing, the pencils will be sharpened to stubs, and the paper will run out before we know it.

I'm guessing that those of you with kids do the same thing every year to prepare your darlings for another nine months of learning. We spend that much time on something temporary, but how much time do we spend preparing for our eternity with God?

P.S. - My youngest got up the first day of school and none of his jeans or belts fit. They fit two days ago - what happened?! AH! Back to the store again . . .

P.P.S. - I'd post a picture from their first day of school, but for the first time ever I forgot to take one. The kids cheered when I realized too late on the drive to school. So much for our preparations!

Thoughts to ponder

2007-08-20T08:25:00.000-05:00

Let me know your thoughts . . .

Yesterday, Pastor G talked about 'WHY I Trust.' He encouraged each of us to delve into that question this week. Several questions popped into my mind as I listened. Below is one of them.

He said that most of us trust because of past experience with someone. I agree with that. Some of us trust people until they prove unreliable. But, most people trust someone only after they have had interactions with them. You are who you say you are, and you have done what you said you would do - so, I trust you. O.K.

Later, he brought up the story of the woman at the well. She met Jesus and began to explore her reasons to trust Him. Then, she ran back to town to tell everyone else that she possibly met the Messiah. Now, here's my question for you: Why did those people trust her? She was a woman who obviously had a bad reputation. Past experience with her would have proven to them that she may not be the type of person to trust. Why did they trust her enough to go check out the claim?

Were they just curious? Were they that hopeful for the Messiah that they didn't want to miss a chance to see Him - just in case? What are your thoughts?

Here's to you, Grandma & Grandpa!

2007-08-16T16:54:00.000-05:00

In a world with divorce rates soaring and many people skipping the marriage covenant completely by merely "living together," it is a rare happening to find long-lasting marriages. God created the marriage plan. It is a covenant between three: a man, a woman, and God. Without God as that third leg of the stool, a marriage will not stand.

I am pleased to say that two of the most important and special people in my life have been married for 65 years. Yeah, you read that right - 65 years!

So, here's to you, Grandma & Grandpa. You are a blessing and role-model, demonstrating how God intended marriage to be. I love you both!

Bound to be free

2007-08-13T11:43:00.000-05:00

This summer we installed an invisible fence to give Nugent more room to run yet keep him safe. He learned quickly. What a good boy! The big day came after several weeks of training - the day we let him run totally free. I was terrified. What if he ran off? What if the collar didn't work? What if . . .

I checked the collar at least five times. With a deep breath, I opened the door. He tore out of the garage. I think he might have missed the two steps. I ran out to keep an eye on him. The exercise just to keep him in sight exhausted me. He darted from one boundary to another, turning back only after hearing the warning signal from his collar.

Then my worst fear was realized. He crossed the line! Suddenly, he yelped! How could I get to him before he got badly hurt or ran off? He yelped some more and darted back inside his play area. My baby scurried back to my arms. I breathed a humungous sigh of relief and generously praised him. After a slobbery lick to my cheek, he was off again, free to run in his safe zone.

While crossing that boundary hurt him, if he had continued on, he could have been hurt much worse. He could have gotten hit by a car, hurt by another animal - many dangers awaited him on the other side.

That got me thinking. God gives us boundaries designed to keep us safe. Sometimes we cross the line. It hurts. Sometimes we keep going anyway, and we begin a downward spiral in our life. The cool thing is that God will always be there to welcome us back. He is so happy that the angels rejoice! While I probably wouldn't lick God on the cheek to show my gratitude, I should definitely thank Him - for the forgiveness and the limitations.

For within those God-given boundaries, I am free. Thanks, God.

Edit, edit, edit

2007-06-25T18:31:00.000-05:00

Ok, to all of you writers out there . . .

I was writing another piece for an upcoming Chicken Soup Father/Son deadline. The nearly-finished story lay dormant in my computer for several weeks. I couldn't come up with an appropriate ending. Sigh.

"Today is the day," I decided. "I am going to finish that story!"

Those of you who are familiar with my writing style know that I love weaving in details throughout the story to come to a touching conclusion. So, I naturally did that.

What a beautiful ending paragraph! Ah, so sweet. My kids and two of my nieces read it. "It's fine," they all said. (Not quite the response I was after.) That is, except the youngest one. The story was about him - an event between he and his dad.

He was mad! "That's not exactly right," he decreed. "You can tell those other stories about me right, but . . . ."

I worked to soothe my angry son. "Honey, it's okay. I'll fix it."

He was right. The words didn't fit the tone of what really happened. That meant I had to edit it - AGAIN. Ugh.

I carried my laptop to the front porch to get away from the cousins' noisy banter. Time to get rid of those well-loved words. I couldn't delete them yet, afterall no writer likes to remove their precious words. So, I spaced the paragraph to the bottom of the page - just in case.

After several strategically placed words and a new finale, I reread it. Wow! I had to admit it was much better. I still didn't delete my original words, but I did read and edit the modified version about 15 more times. Now it was test time: my proofreaders needed to read it again.

"I like that much better." It was unanimous.

How about the child it affected the most? We read the new version together. His eyes sparkled while a big grin crept across his face.

"I take it you like this one better?" I asked hopefully.

"Yeah. That's how it really happened. You can send that one."

Isn't it amazing how our words can affect a story? Words, whether written or spoken, have great impact on others. Use yours wisely and EDIT, EDIT, EDIT!

Oh, by the way, I deleted the other paragraph.

Finding God

2007-06-13T12:41:00.000-05:00

I've never commented on my blog about public figures or current events. I guess that's because I wanted this to be a space about everyday life and happenings. However, this time, I really felt the desire to "type" my mind.

Watching the news, it seems we are inudated with updates about Paris Hilton. Just before her latest Bible-toting publicity, I felt extremely burdened for her. My heart ached to watch her heading down this path of self-destruction. "How much longer will it take before she hits rock bottom?" I wondered. Why do people sometimes have to lose it all before they'll turn to the one true source of life and liberty? Why in the process of "finding oneself" do they destroy themselves? So many try to fill their lives with busyness, popularity, sex, drugs, alcohol, etc. Still they're left empty.

As Christians, we have the answer to that age-old question: What's the meaning of life? God created each of us for His pleasure and purpose. I'm pretty sure destroying ourselves was not in His plan. The great news is that no matter how much we've messed up, and we all do, He wants us back. He wants to be close to you and me. He loves us.

I truly hope and pray that Paris has really found the answer in the one true God through His son, Jesus. He is the only way, truth, and life. He is not a publicity tool, but the way to joy, peace, and true happiness.

May each of you find that joy, love, and peace in Jesus.

Whoa!

2007-06-12T16:52:00.000-05:00

I can't believe it's been so long since I've written! Moving will do that to you apparently.

The initial moving process was tough on our dog. He stuck to me like glue. The boxes everywhere worried him, causing him to cry and whimper frequently. Oh the stress!

The cat, on the other hand, loved the packing process. He loved jumping in and out of every box - full or empty. Hide-n-seek was his game of choice. Pouncing on the dog if he got within a few feet probably didn't help ease the poor Yorkie's nerves. It was great fun for our feline though!

The day we moved the animals, it all flip-flopped. Nugent was thrilled with a new adventure and the new "sniffs" (as my youngest calls them). Mittens about had a heart attack on the drive over, panting and huffing. Whew! Never thought we'd make the few short miles there.

The cat hid under the couch for the first few days, coming out at night when no one was around. Once he figured out where his food and litter box were, he seemed to calm down.

Now, as we unpack, Mittens and Nugent have flipped places again. Mittens is back to jumping in the boxes as soon as I open them!

Get an animal - they'll make your life more interesting!

Letting Go

2007-04-04T12:10:00.000-05:00

Have you ever had a child who underwent surgery, testing, illnesses - anything that caused you to worry without having any control over the situation?

Sitting outside on the clinic patio in the 80 degree sun, I waited for the nurse to come get me. The surgery was not a long procedure. We'd been in this position before, several years earlier with one of the boys. It's hard to let them go, even when you know it's for their own good.

When the surgery was first scheduled, my natural inclination was to worry. But I made a choice - I turned her over to God. She's His after all. As much as I love her, He loves her more. That's hard to imagine, considering the depth of my love! He would not and will not leave her. He wants what is best for her too. The cool thing is that He always knows what that is, even when I flounder for answers.

"Paula, she's waking up. She did well."

Of course, she did. She's her Heavenly Father's child.

Chicken Soup Moment

2007-04-02T16:06:00.000-05:00

My daughter and I went to the Ohio State Dance Competition in Columbus, OH this past weekend. She dressed to the tilt for her Fred Astaire/Ginger Rogers solo. She was beautiful! My baby looked so much older.

The big moment arrived. She posed on stage, ready to begin her tap number. The music began, and it ended just as quickly. For just a brief moment, I saw a look of panic cross her eyes. What do I do now without music? She made a choice, and her smile never faded as she danced the ENTIRE dance without music. Everyone in the ballroom cheered for the dancer dancing to her own tune.

It took a lot of courage for a young girl to get up there to dance, but to do it without the music - that was brave! And then, she did it again! This time the music played properly. It was difficult to do AGAIN, but WOW! She did it!

I told her that I would have to write this story. It's just one of those Chicken Soup moments that I will never forget. It brings tears to my eyes now to think of my little girl up there being so mature.

Thank you, God, for revealing a part of your character in her that night.

From the mouths of our young

2007-03-16T18:32:00.000-05:00

Today was the annual Speech Meet at my sons' elementary school. It amazes me that kids, first through sixth grade, stood before their peers, parents, teachers, and judges to recite a memorized selection. Poems, Bible verses, prose, fables, folklore, Bible prose - these kids spoke with clarity, courage, and conviction. Some recited the Gettysburg Address or Martin Luther King, Jr's "I Have a Dream" - amazing! These kids are conquering a fear common to most adults - public speaking.

One of the young boys discovered that I was an author. After praising him for his effort, his dad and I discussed how we never would have stood before an audience to speak when we were in school. (Believe it or not, I was EXTREMELY shy!) The second grader, wishing never to do the meet again, suddenly blurted, "You're lucky. All you have to do is write. You don't have to talk."

I tried not to laugh. Speaking to kids at schools, with adults, at book signings - I can't believe how much speaking God has me doing. I actually enjoy meeting and speaking with people. What happened to that quiet, shy, little girl?

I will greatly praise the Lord with my mouth;
Yes, I will praise Him among the multitude.
Psalm 109:30

I never dreamed that I would ever be a speaker, but where God leads, He will provide. Let's step out of our comfort zones like those kids did, and learn to speak out for the Lord!

Here's to You . . .

2007-03-15T19:57:00.000-05:00

Here's to You, Jennifer!

Chicken Soup for the New Mom's Soul is out now!! My author copy arrived today. I'm so honored that "The Footprint" is the very first story. It seems so long ago that the event happened. Jennifer is the baby described in that story, and she is now a teenager. She is still making special footprints upon my soul. Being a mom is incredible!

Thanks, Jennifer, for breaking me into the wonderful world of motherhood. I love you!

Writing, writing

2007-03-08T10:19:00.000-05:00

In the spirit of "Bearing Life" together, I want to share some information with my fellow writers that I've found helpful.

First, learning about this wonderful world of blogging - Nicole Dean's ecourse "Unleash Your Blog" has been a great tool. Check out her site at www.showmomthemoney.com and sign up for this great course.

Another newsletter that I love is from the Publicity Hound, Joan Stewart. I look forward to her 'Tips of the Week' for thoughts and insights on what else - publicity! Go check it out! http://www.PublicityHound.com

Happy writing!

Here's to you . . .

2007-02-22T12:16:00.000-05:00

Here's to you, Mr. Wal-mart Greeter Guy.

Every day you stand at that entrance and exit door greeting cheerful or grumpy, friendly or unfriendly, nice or mean, wide-awake or sleep-walking people. And, yet you still smile and offer a kind word to each one.

*******
I made my weekly trip to Wal-mart, not as full of dread as usual. In a town with only a KMart, Wal-mart, a few smaller grocery stores, and novelty shops, if I have a ton of grocery and non-food stuff, I have to go there. I put it off long enough, so with a deep breath and a pasted-on smile I bounded inside out of the cold at 8:20am.

The tall, silver-haired man at the door greeted me with a smile, commenting on the one plastered on my face at that early hour. Thank you, God, for a smile. I've found that it helps my mood, but also affects others. Thanks to Mr. Greeter Guy for sharing his with all of us. He comes in contact with hundreds of people during his shift. Perhaps his cheer will help mend a broken spirit, encourage a lost soul, or comfort a hurting heart.

My journey through the massive land of stuff lasted an hour and a half! In every department, employees were improving their section - they were moving each item, so no one could find it without searching! AH!

But, after checking out, Mr. Greeter Guy wished me a good day. Grateful for the good cheer, I pushed the overflowing cart to my car. Unloading groceries should be considered part of any exercise plan! Unfortunately, several bags into the effort, the sour cream crashed to the pavement. I finished loading my vehicle, avoiding the white splat below me.

Decision time . . . Do I take more time to take it inside and let them know, or just forget it? Either way, I'm out that money. I had to at least throw away the cracked and leaking container in the trash can at the front of the store. Another humungous sigh escaped. At least coming that early allows me to have a close parking spot - right beside the handicapped and expectant moms slots. I marched back inside.

Mr. Greeter Guy recognized me and gladly took my broken gift. "You just go on back there, get you a new one, and come back here. That way you don't have to wait in Customer Service. I know you've already been through that check-out line." He flashed me another huge smile.

"Thank you so much!" I dashed off with a genuine smile, not the 'I can get through this' one I entered with.

Mr. Greeter Guy, you made my day! And, I even counted the sprint for the sourcream from the front corner of the store to the opposite back corner as my workout for the day. Woo hoo!

God gladly accepts our broken gifts and offerings too. He loves us and wants us to share that love with others. He created us with wonderful smiles. Have you used yours today to cheer another? Let's help each other BEAR life together. Smile!

Unpredictable circumstances

2007-02-14T20:33:00.000-05:00

2:54a.m.
“Hmm? Okay, okay. I’m coming.”

I wandered through the dark with my eyes slightly open following the jingling sound of Nugent’s dog collar. The jingling excitement increased as I drew closer to the garage door and his wiggling body. Potty-time always causes quite a stir, even in the middle of the night. Nugent doesn’t seem to care whether a storm is happening until he’s out in it. When he’s gotta go, he’s gotta go NOW.

I hooked his chain to his collar and opened the garage door. Out he flew, barking madly. The wind whipped and howled. Freezing rain flew pass the door. Nugent paused the barking long enough to do his business.

“Nugent!” I hollered. He came, but his chain didn’t reach the garage door. “Nugent! Why did you get yourself tangled? Now I have to go outside too!”

Meanwhile, the cat slipped by me for a sneak escape. I caught his tail, and snatched up the thirteen pound fluff-ball. Apparently the wind blew open the inside door. Mittens didn’t miss his chance to run. Obviously, that didn’t help my mood either.

I slammed the outside door. I slammed the door into the house. I slammed the bathroom door behind me because now I had to go too. Still fuming, I stomped back to the door, grabbed my thickest coat, and shoved my feet back into my slip-on shoes.

Outside I ranted, “Nugent! I can’t believe you did this!” He occasionally likes to tease us to get us to come out to play and in the process gets tangled. I was not thrilled.

Even with my hood on, the freezing rain smacked my face. My flannel pajama pants weren’t nearly as warm as they were inside. Nugent knew of my disapproval and tried to right his wrong, making things worse.

That’s when I saw it. His chain was not caught due to his negligence or orneriness. It was hooked around the post in the ground - totally not his fault. I was mad and falsely accused him before knowing the facts.

How often do I do that - automatically assume the worst of someone? The kids do or don’t do something, and I jump on them before knowing the reason they did or didn’t do it the way I thought they should. Has someone ever walked by you without acknowledging you? Or snapped at you for no apparent reason? Before assuming the worst, give them the benefit of a doubt. Perhaps they had a bad day. Maybe something totally rocked their world, and everything seems to be spinning out of control. Or maybe, something unpredictable happened – like getting a chain caught.

Sorry Nugent. He was curled up against me in the hollow my body made from its side position. I patted his head and felt his warm body rise and fall as he descended into a deeper sleep.

Thank you, God. I’m still learning important lessons from my dog.

Here comes the storm

2007-02-12T11:55:00.000-05:00

Weather forecasters are calling for a layer of ice to blanket our region tonight through tomorrow morning. Knowing this, I drove all over the county this morning doing errands in preparation - just in case we end up stuck at home. I'm sure Wal-mart is bustling even more than usual with shoppers out to stock up to prepare for whatever might happen. The milk, diapers, and toilet paper shelves are probably about empty. I know; as a mom you never know for sure how long it'll be before you can get out again, so you prepare while you can - hopefully before the storm.

I began thinking . . . We wait anxiously and prepare for a storm that hopefully comes and goes quickly. Yet, do we await Jesus' arrival with such anticipation?

"God's kingdom is like ten young virgins who took oil lamps and went out to greet the bridegroom. Five were silly and five were smart. The silly virgins took lamps, but no extra oil. The smart virgins took jars of oil to feed their lamps. The bridegroom didn't show up when they expected him, and they all fell asleep.
In the middle of the night someone yelled out, 'He's here! The bridegroom's here! Go out and greet him!'
The ten virgins got up and got their lamps ready. The silly virgins said to the smart ones, 'Our lamps are going out; lend us some of your oil.'
They answered, 'There might not be enough to go around; go buy your own.'
They did, but while they were out buying oil, the bridegroom arrived. When everyone who was there to greet him had gone into the wedding feast, the door was locked.
Much later, the other virgins, the silly ones, showed up and knocked on the door, saying, 'Master, we're here. Let us in.'
He answered, 'Do I know you? I don't think I know you.'
So stay alert. You have no idea when he might arrive." Matthew 25:1-13 (The Message)

This storm has been predicted for about a week now. I've made a lot of preparations, just in case the storm comes. I don't even know for sure that it will.

Jesus' return has been predicted for thousands of years. I don't know when He will return - just that He will as He promised. Is my heart prepared for that? Thankfully, I can say, "YES!"

How about you? Are you ready for Him? Is your heart prepared for His coming?

Why worry?

2007-02-04T14:26:00.000-05:00

Here I am worrying about what amazing words I can write for my very first blog. Yet, not more than two minutes ago, I helped my son learn Luke 12:22-28 (NIV) for an upcoming speech meet.

Then Jesus said to his disciples: “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat: or about your body, what you will wear. Life is more than food, and the body more than clothes.
Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?
Consider how the lilies grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith!

Don’t worry? Ouch! Sigh. But, I’m a professional worrier.

We teased my son that these verses were the perfect choice for him. He frets about everything. At least he comes by it naturally. Both sides of his family tree are incredible worriers. I like to believe it’s because we’re empathetic and understanding people.

That may be part of it, but God doesn’t want me to be anxious about my life. My whole life? But, that’s every part of it! You’ve got to be kidding! I don’t just worry about BIG things. I worry about getting the mounds of laundry done; what we’re going to have for dinner; or helping the kids get their homework done. Every trouble that friends and family have, I worry for them. It hurts to see them in pain emotionally or physically.

I have discovered a release though: I talk with the Lord about it and LEAVE it there. Often I have trouble with that last part. Frequently I leave it and then take it back again. By doing so, I am insinuating that God isn’t able to handle it.

O you of little faith!

If I believe God is who He says He is, and will do what He says He will, then I have to trust and let it go.

Let it go. Now there’s a freeing feeling. And, look! For someone who worried about what to write – there’s now a whole page! My worry for the first blog is over. No worries now – at least until the next one.