The (Ri)Charmed Life

Both Pleasure and Business

2012-02-28T22:40:00.001-05:00

Tuesday, February 28, 2012~

The last day of February! Oh, wait..... guess not. So yesterday I walked. A lot. And today I did my usual body sculpting class. Wwouch. Yes, that's a new word and now it's trademarked. Wwouch®. Right now that is the only way I can describe how my tensor fasciæ latæ muscle feels. Impressed that I know what the tensor fasciæ latæ muscle is? Don't be, I googled it.

The cookie fortune I pulled tonight is awesome. You'll have to overlook the blaring grammar error. (If you overlooked all the somewhat intentional issues in the previous paragraph, that should be no problem.) I wish these "fortunes" were guarantees and not just factory spewage.

"You will travel far and wide,both pleasure and business."

My Prize

2012-02-27T22:59:00.000-05:00

Monday, February 27, 2012~

So last week I was the runner up in The Creative Coastie Wife's giveaway. The winner didn't respond, so I got it! My cool prizes arrived today. This is just 3 of the 6 items I won:

The items are all from her Etsy site, TJ Lundin Co. Go check it out!

Stuff

2012-02-26T23:18:00.000-05:00

Sunday, February 26, 2012~

My in-laws are preparing to move out of the home they've lived in for almost 20 years. We went over this afternoon to get some plants and see if we wanted anything before it goes out at the next garage sale. I ended up with some nice textile items.

I hope we never have to move. I have way too much stuff! I am trying to sell some things and have stopped adding to certain collections, but it seems like every item I sell gets replaces by 3 other items. Right now I'm trying to put more up on eBay and I've got a few larger things to go on Craigslist. Etsy is a little slower going but I am able to sell a few things a week on there. I think I need to start planning a yard sale April/May. I really need to get control of things again.

Buried in the Sands of Time

2012-02-26T22:30:00.001-05:00

from Saturday, February 25th~

Click on the photo to go to the official listing

My parents are always on the lookout for unique items I can use in my jewelry. I'm always surprised with what they find. Last year they came across Afghanistan Antique Glass. This glass dates from the Roman empire and was most likely from a bottle. It's 1,000-1,800 years old. Mom & dad brought back several pieces. I've made necklaces for my mom & sister, but can't seem to make up my mind what to do with the piece I'm keeping for myself. My shard is brown with unbelievable red and green iridescence. The photo is of the only one I've made up to sell so far.

Bat Girl

2012-02-25T00:06:00.009-05:00

Friday, February 24, 2012~

I love bats. Seems peculiar I'm sure, but it's one of my favorite eccentricities. I always wear this necklace. People frequently comment and ask about it. Here's the why as best as I can explain it:

When I was in high school our attic got a little brown myotis bat colony. They had babies and sometimes the babies would fall on the floor. Naturally, my siblings and I would scoop them up and hold them. (We are not a skittish lot.) The babies were adorable and the adults were lovely and gentle. I enjoyed their presence. The more I liked the bats and started learning about them, the more I started noticing that most people find them creepy and gross. It made me sad that such great animals were so misunderstood.

When I went away to my very strict Christian college, I was frequently told how weird and odd I was. I know I'm a little unusual, but I guess because I had such supportive amazing friends in high school, I didn't think that was a bad thing or really anything to even take note of. (Still love those fab gals!) Anyway, the administration even labeled me as someone of questionable character. I don't deny that may have been true at the time, but you'd think in a Christian setting, the proper response would have been to encourage me and come along side me, not to alienate and make me feel like a reject. That's not to say I didn't have good friends in college- I did, but even with most of them, I felt like I had to suppress some of my quirkiness, and even then I still got the "you're weird" comments. I made off campus friends too, but to them my faith made me quite peculiar. All of this made me feel very misunderstood and that led me to identify with my batty friends somehow.

I did turn some spiritual corners in my college years, but that's another story that has more to do with the camp I worked at than the college I went to. When I graduated, I got a bat tattoo to celebrate. It marks the beginning of a fun phase of life and also commemorates all the hard work I put in to get through school. It was also a statement that other people's narrow mindedness can't shake my personal walk with God or my understanding of who I am.

Now onto the necklace (after all that!)... I gave up my career when Julian was born. I was happy to do it because I believe there is no replacement for a mother in a child's life. I didn't want to miss any of his special moments and only having an hour or two a day with him wasn't going to cut it. Like most women who decide to stay at home, there is a shift in identity. I got a bit of a martyr complex and then felt smothered and then felt guilty. It was this weird sleep deprived spiral and I was just asking God for something, even though I couldn't define what it was I needed.

After Julian had weened, I decided to take a weekend trip up to see those lovely high school friends. It was my first time away from him and I was feeling guilty and a little unsure. I had a rental car and a few hours to kill before my best friend expected me so I decided to head to the Brandywine River Museum. I'd been there in high school and remembered loving all the Wyeth and Pyle galleries. I was shocked to discover they were hosting an Edward Gorey exhibit. [I'm not going to go into Gorey's art and things I like and don't like about him, but I will say I love the man's dark sense of humor. The expressions in his illustrations are painfully (and humorously) on point.] Gorey is one of my all time favorite artists and not many people I know have much of an appreciation for his work.

Having that exact art show going on at the time I just happened to be there by myself when I could really enjoy it blew my mind. I basically had the place to myself. I just felt this flood of feelings like God was giving me this as a gift of encouragement and permission to still embrace my artistic side and that it was okay to take time to still be Julie. I bought my little bat pendant there. I wear it all the time because to me it's a reminder that God made me unique and loves this batty little person just trying to love Him the best she knows how. His acceptance is really the only acceptance that matters. Maybe that meaning is a bit of a stretch to you, but that's why it's for me. I still occasionally get told that I'm unusual, but now I think to myself, Thank goodness, "normal" sounds like a prison sentence!

A Good Day

2012-02-24T00:30:00.000-05:00

Thursday, February 23, 2012~

(Click on the photo to visit the Etsy listing)

Today was a mix of many things. It was a good day. We started the morning doing the James study at church, then ran a couple errands. After lunch I changed the beds, de-cluttered and started laundry, then worked on some jewelry. We had new neighbors move across the street so I went over and met them. Went online after that to do Etsy listings and answer eBay questions. Next Juju and I read, then played box robot and drew snot sea cucumbers. I had time to heat up some dinner for him and then took off as soon as Jason got home. After some delicioso margaritas and fajitas with friends, I put in an order for a couple new kitchen goodies. (So excited about the Cut N Seal sandwich press. Homemade Uncrustables, anyone?!) Now I'm home again and it's back on the computer processing my eBay auctions that ended tonight, blogging and checking out the latest Pins. Eventually I should go to sleep. Eventually.

Lunch Buddies

2012-02-22T23:39:00.000-05:00

February 22, 2012~

Had an impromptu lunch with my hubby and son today. I really like that he works close enough that we can meet up occasionally. We also went up to his office and met all the co-workers. That I wasn't planning on so Julian was in a weird outfit that he's wiped half his food on. I didn't have my hair done and had left over smudgy makeup from the night before so I was not spectacular either. Still, no one laughed at us to our faces. Next time we'll be more prepared!

Speaking of the hubby, he is starting a blog. The first entry isn't very long, but he is a good writer and I think as he gets warmed up, his blog is going to be very entertaining! If you want to visit it, he's at TheFrenchGhost.

Fat Tuesday

2012-02-22T00:57:00.000-05:00

Tuesday, February 22, 2012~

Ceviche's! I could go here every Tuesday night. Really. I don't really do the traditional Mardi Gras/Fat Tuesday, but I like how Fat Tuesday sounds. For me every Tuesday is pretty fat so.... ... ... Anyway, had a nice evening with an interesting mix of friends.

Berry Good

2012-02-21T15:38:00.001-05:00

from Monday, February 21, 2012~

(This lovely plate is my latest Etsy listing. For the details, click on the photo.)

I love fruit stands! I find the quality and price of the produce so much better than in grocery stores. It's fun to watch Julian get excited about the food. It really helps later when he doesn't want a particular vegetable to remind him that that was one he helped pick.

Right now there's an abundance of strawberries. They're in season here in Florida and so inexpensive. We've been eating them with blueberries and blackberries too. As a mom, it feels great when Julian asks for stuff like that or his other favorites, carrots and broccoli. It's not that the boy doesn't love chocolate or chips- I'm just proud that he knows those things are not available in our home. The lack of the sugary or super salty foods has helped him develop a taste for the more natural goodies. Moms- this is much easier if you start this process when they are babies!

Still Green

2012-02-19T23:21:00.003-05:00

Sunday, February 19th~


Taken just this week in our lush and verdant yard, click on the photo for more info about the vintage souvenir platter

Jason is back and Julian is behaving and I had a great day at church so all is well and as it should be. It was freakishly warm again today. I know we chose to live in Florida and with that comes warm weather and not many seasonal changes, but I do look forward to how cold January/February usually is. I like that we get at least one change. This year though, it's been warm and murky. I don't want that in February! I shouldn't complain though, the electric bill has been a little lower. I just want to wear my cute red coat again this season!

PS I just won the contest at The Creative Coastie Wife! =D

Great Explorations

2012-02-19T01:20:00.000-05:00

Saturday, February 19, 2012~

Kept busy today. With Jason being away, I couldn't be in the house all day with Julian so it's a good thing we had fun stuff to do. We've got museum passes so we spent a nice chunk of the morning at Great Explorations with friends. It's kind of funny- they have the grocery store, firehouse, pizza shop, vet lab and art areas downstairs in the common area and upstairs is the doctor's office, next to the golf area and boating feature. Isn't that true to life?! No one but the doctors can afford those green fees!

This Friday Night

2012-02-17T22:02:00.000-05:00

Friday, February 17th~ Jason is at ManFest. Julian is in bed. I am watching Antique Roadshow and having a glass of my favorite wine. I rather like this Friday night in!

Not the Judge

2012-02-17T21:44:00.000-05:00

from Thursday, February 16, 2012~

Studied this verse this morning and can't stop thinking about it. This is a teaching that my generation of believers really needs to take to heart and apply. How did we get to be so cynical and mocking of our fellow believers?

James 4:11-12: Brothers and sisters, do not tell evil lies about each other. If you speak against your fellow believers or judge them, you are judging and speaking against the law they follow. And when you are judging the law, you are no longer a follower of the law. You have become a judge.God is the only Lawmaker and Judge. He is the only One who can save and destroy. So it is not right for you to judge your neighbor.

Lucky Eleven

2012-02-15T23:01:00.001-05:00

Wednesday, February 15, 2012~

J brought me this gorgeous bouquet today.

11 years ago today was the first real date of my relationship with my husband. I think we just knew this was It. All these years later and now we're parents and have this amazing life. It's not that things have been super easy for us- the end of this last year was excruciating on many levels. We've both changed and grown over the years, but in ways that compliment each other. I feel like we've got this great balance of being friends, lovers, partners, comedy writers... I love that we find the same things funny! I just know that on that first date, eating fondue and drinking chocolate martinis, I had no idea how awesome that awkward guy sitting across from me truly was.

Love

2012-02-14T15:09:00.002-05:00

Tuesday, February 14th~

Valentine's Day! I'm all crafty lately. I made this today. They're super easy- just chalk, paper & scissors required.

I always feel pressure to extol on love on Valentine's Day, but I still have quite a few friends who haven't found the romantic love the day celebrates. I don't like the idea that love is for some, but not others. So why not write about the kind of love that we all have in common.

In this the love of God was made manifest among us,

that God sent his only Son into the world,

so that we might live through him.

In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us

and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.

Beloved, if God so loved us,

we also ought to love one another.

-1 John 4:9-11

Mean Mom

2012-02-14T14:56:00.000-05:00

from Tuesday, February 13, 2012~

I use to think a hard sudoku puzzle was a challenge. I also thought St. Pete was challenging to navigate. My definition has changed. Challenging is getting a four year old to listen to you. It requires following through with consequences and pretty much being a "mean" mom. I feel that training him to listen and obey now will benefit him so much when school starts and in life in general. To let a child go into the world without correction and guidance is to handicap them and that's truly mean. So in the long run, being a "mean" mom is the kindest thing I can do for my Juj.

The D Stage

2012-02-12T21:20:00.000-05:00

February 12, 2012~

Today didn't go how I wanted it to. Nothing major, of course, just annoying things that won't matter after my head hits the pillow tonight. And some parts of the day were great, like the family lunch we had to celebrate my sister-in-law's birthday.
When I get thrown off my game early in the day though, I have a hard time shaking it off. Lately I've just felt overwhelmed in general and I think when you're already a bit on edge, it doesn't take much to make you just want to shut down entirely. If I look at the DABDA grieving model, I may be in the last D stage, the depression stage. It's not a chronic thing, just part of the process.

A Crepe Day

2012-02-11T22:55:00.002-05:00

February 11, 2012~

Vintage Daniel Green red brocade shoes, not for sale =)

Vintage shopping- sometime you win, sometimes you lose, and sometimes it's a draw. Still any day that starts with friend and French crepes at the St. Pete farmer's market is a great day to me!

PS: Go check out this giveaway from The Creative Coastie Wife!

Heart Wreath

2012-02-10T14:21:00.001-05:00

Friday, February 10th~

Look what I made!

People assume because I make jewelry that I'm a craft genius, but nothing could be further from the truth! I do have creative ideas and all, but often my execution is just pitiful. I cannot draw or cut in a straight line! This was fun though and took very little skill.

I almost don't want to share the instructions because the wreath on that page is so superior it's a little embarrassing. So go check it out if you must, but promise me you will not mock my humble attempt! (Click on any of the photos to visit the instruction page.)

Wisdom & Dignity

2012-02-09T23:32:00.000-05:00

Thursday, February 9, 2012~

Fun day! Ended with a Bunco fundraiser. I won a prize. =) Can't stop thinking about James 3 :17-18. Here's The Message version:

Real wisdom, God's wisdom, begins with a holy life and is characterized by getting along with others. It is gentle and reasonable, overflowing with mercy and blessings, not hot one day and cold the next, not two-faced. You can develop a healthy, robust community that lives right with God and enjoy its results only if you do the hard work of getting along with each other, treating each other with dignity and honor.

No need to elaborate!

Moon Over My Hammy

2012-02-09T13:38:00.000-05:00

from Wednesday, February 8th~

The moon tonight was gloriously full and foggy. It reminds me of the sea somehow. When I think of the sea and moon together I think about how old the earth is and how many other people have looked up at that same moon in that same position. Makes me feel small and how life really is like the vapor that James talks about.

Buy It Now!

2012-02-07T18:24:00.000-05:00

Tuesday, February 7th~

They filmed an infomercial at Body Sculpting today. We were all in synch and smiling somehow. As soon as the cameras were off though, the groans started and we fell apart a bit. I'm often skeptical about "Seen on TV" items. I'm kind of curious how they're going to use the footage today. We're all probably "before"...

Grin and Bear It

2012-02-07T00:46:00.001-05:00

February 6, 2012~

My poor little boy... He wouldn't let me take a picture of his poor bruised up arms for some reason. He had his 4 year check up today, which unfortunately included some vaccinations. He hates shots more than anything so it was pretty miserable. He was unhappy the rest of the day so I was shocked that he put on a great big smile for the photo. Figures, I wanted one with tears and band-aids and misery, 'cause that true. I guess we learn early on to force smiles.

Jock Itch

2012-02-05T23:44:00.001-05:00

Sunday, February 5, 2012~

Superbowl! ... and I really could care less. If it was the home team or my Dolphins, I'd have more interest. My hockey team has been awesome lately so really I'd have preferred to watch that. I guess it all depends on what you're into. Still, I am always haunted by the thought of how different the world would be if we had as much passion towards helping the needy as we do cheering for meaningless sports.

Some Things Never Change

2012-02-05T23:32:00.001-05:00

from Saturday, February 4th~

I still love watching my man play. =)

Pork Gone Wild

2012-02-04T00:27:00.000-05:00

February 3, 2012~

Lots of meat... American portions are ridiculous. Anyway, today was a bittersweet day. We took Juju on a tour of the preschool he'll be attending next school term. I'm very proud of my big boy, but I'm also a little heartbroken that his toddler years have come and gone.

Tonight we went out to a restaurant I hadn't been to before. It was clearly a mature hang out/discotheque. It was a good time though- yummy food, fun friends and lots of entertainment for sure!

Thursdays with Laurie*

2012-02-02T16:39:00.001-05:00

Thursday, February 2, 2012~

One of the things I most enjoy about being a stay-at-home-mom is that I get to go to a morning Bible study group. I like the diversity in the group. I also like how every person there is there to learn- not to critique the author or roll eyes at parts that aren't personally applicable.

We've studied all sorts of things together over the years. Right now we're doing Beth Moore's James study. I'm already about a week behind, but I love this study. In the past I've felt overwhelmed by her studies, but the Esther one was magnificent and so far this one has far exceeded my expectations.

*I couldn't resist a little word play or take on Tuesdays with Morrie. Our leader is Laurie, so it worked. I think!

Our Loving Warrior

2012-02-02T16:10:00.001-05:00

from February 1, 2012~

Yahweh your God is among you,

a warrior who saves. He will

rejoice over you with gladness.

He will bring you quietness

with His love. He will delight

in you with shouts of joy.

-Zephaniah 3:17

Little Things

2012-01-30T15:13:00.000-05:00

Monday, January 30, 2012~

I don't brag on my hubby as much as I should. Lately he's just been awesome though. He's been so willing to watch Juju when I need to get away. He picked up meals when I wasn't feeling good last week. He did loads and loads of laundry this weekend. He remembered I wanted to try this kind of popcorn and instead of getting the kind he wanted, he got the one I mentioned.

I feel like there aren't many guys that consistently put not just the needs, but wants of their families first. So many men act like boys when it comes to pursuing hobbies or the newest gadget. I don't know what generation that started with, but it seems the norm now. Some women do it too, so it's not all on the guys. I'm just glad my guy's heart for me and Juju is so apparent in his actions. It inspires me to be less selfish.

Fruit

2012-01-30T14:46:00.000-05:00

from Sunday, January 29th~

A couple of weeks ago, a boy from the neighborhood asked to pick some of the oranges off of our orange trees. I warned him that the fruit, while pretty, was also sour and full of seeds. He wanted it anyway, so I let him take it. I hope he just needed it for a school project and wasn't planning on eating any.

Our orange trees always bear a big crop and look and smell beautiful. It's sad that the inside of the fruit is inedible. In the end, they are diseased, make a big mess and don't serve any purpose. If we were handier, we might just chop them all down.

I think of our trees when I read Matthew 12, specifically verse 33, "Make a tree good and its fruit will be good, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit." We American Christians are so stinkin' good at looking right and playing nice. We like big churches, big programs, big numbers. Even personally we're fans of big bank accounts, big houses, big cars, big friend lists, maybe even big hair. That's the American way! But I think we really need to be concerned about what the fruit of all that big stuff is.

If our actions and what comes out of our mouths is bitter, judgmental, and a little seedy, we are still bad trees, no matter what other image we put out. The good news is, we are not doomed to stay bad trees. The hope and pursuit of being like Christ changes us at our core. That relationship and where we choose to take it makes all the difference.

Hungry Hippos

2012-01-28T22:24:00.001-05:00

January 28, 2012~

Didn't intend for the photo to be so literal, but I forgot my camera earlier in the day, so this is what ya get...

The food has been so delicious and unhealthy lately. Sushi last night, a brunch baby shower this morning, 5 Guys tonight. No wonder the jeans are a bit snug. It's so easy to fall out of good eating habits. When I shop, I'm so careful about what I bring into the house, but when eating out and people giving us things, I have no control! I need to reread Made to Crave.

I haven't posted many spiritual thoughts lately. It's not that my brain hasn't gone there, it's just a lot of my thoughts have to do with our baby issues. I just can't share those quite yet.

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. Proverbs 3:5

2012-01-28T00:54:00.001-05:00

Friday, January 27th~

Know what's awesome for a day that you're not feeling great? Pinterest. Seriously. My photo for today is something I pinned to a board. It's the Harajuku Lovers Perfume: G of the Sea that Jason got me for my birthday. I do love it. I will even confess that I love the bottle more than the perfume, but it is good too.* Glad I took it easy today, the rest of the weekend is pretty busy.

*The official description is "A citrusy woody-floral scent. Top notes delight in juicy splashes of crisp apple, magical water lily, and the tangy sweet surge of crushed berries. Soak in its heart, filled with flirty bouquets of dewy freesia, whispers of pink peony, and delicate kisses of jasmine petals. Finally, leave an enchanting trail of smoothly sun drenched woods, sensually transparent musks, and luscious amberwood. Notes:Crisp Apple, Waterlily, Crushed Berries, Dewy Freesia, Pink Peony, Jasmine Petals, Sun drenched Woods, Transparent Musks, Amberwood."

Catching Up, Maybe?

2012-01-26T23:53:00.001-05:00

January 26, 2012~

Today was my day to catch up! I did get unpacked from my trip and got my son's birthday stuff put away and even the kitchen got a little tlc. But then I started feeling that good old sinus infection feeling... and now I'm just full blown sick. It's been awhile and I've been around so many sick people lately that really it was just a matter of time. I'm resigned to it. And it makes my singing voice kinda cool, Phoebe-style, if you will. Gotta find that silver lining somewhere...

Define Enough

2012-01-25T21:34:00.000-05:00

January 25, 2012~

I have this sampler listed on my (Ri)Charmed Life Etsy shop, but I wouldn't be brokenhearted if it never sold. Although, I don't like messy, I do enjoy some "not perfect". It's intimidating to be in a spotless house that looks more like a showroom. That's going to be the last person I invite over for tea!

Anyway, I'm very irked with what a mess things are right now at my house. Today was going to be a cleaning day, but I had to get Juju to the pediatrician first thing this morning, then I watched a kiddo for a friend for a little bit, then off to my doctor, then off to fill prescriptions, home to cook dinner, then bath time... I'm even missing music practice because Juju is just too sick to hang out at until we finish. Last night we were up until the wee hours of the morning with Julian so I'm exhausted, especially considering the night before was a 4 hour sleep night. I just hope tonight is better. I have so much I need to be doing, but I'm just dead...

One of Those Days...

2012-01-24T23:35:00.000-05:00

January 24, 2012~
   Today has been one of those days. I was up until 4 am last night finishing an order, so it started off rough. I don't feel the need to bore with the specifics, but running multiple errands with a sick kid in tow is not fun. I had 2 items to ship, one of which was a huge painting. The sales are good, but I hate it when I have to frankenstein boxes. It took forever to get that painting well packed. The other sale was overseas so that's also a little extra work.
   Then there's Juju's little birthday dinner... I didn't cook a thing. We all just showed up at the pizza place. BUT, of course, Julian wouldn't stop coughing all over everything. Then he wasn't eating even though he was the one who picked pizza. I guess it was fine, but I just felt drained afterward. Walking into my totally trashed house didn't help matters either.
   I had to run something over to my sister-in-law's house, so I grabbed that and headed out again. I'd had The Age of Adz playing the last bit of our trip back from St. Augustine. It was still in the player, so I just blasted it. Seconds later, I just felt all the irritation and stress of the day just fall away. Something about that album connects with my soul and listening to it is just cathartic.
   Of course, when I got back home, there were ear drops to be administered and it's still a mess, but thank goodness for those moments where the weight of the day does lift!

Happy Birthday, Buddy!

2012-01-24T13:37:00.000-05:00

From January 23, 2012~

Today is my little man's birthday. Poor thing is sick though, so it hasn't been much of a celebration. Still, his sense of humor is intact.

Not Again!

2012-01-22T23:09:00.000-05:00

January 22, 2011~

I love bookends. I like symmetry and when things come full circle. The exception to that is when a locksmith is involved. I won't go into all the gory details, but I ended up with my keys locked in the car right when we were ready to head out. Aside from the key issues, the trip has been glorious and I feel so blessed to have good girlfriends.

Ripley's

2012-01-22T22:56:00.000-05:00

from Saturday, January 21st-

Ripley's Believe It or Not

What a bizarre bunch of... things. I guess they're artifacts. Really the most memorable stuff was the gruesome torture devices, shrunken heads and human skin pieces. It's disturbing how awful and cruel humans can be.

Paths

2012-01-22T22:49:00.000-05:00

from Friday, January 29th~

I'm feeling retrospective about life. It's interesting that some life intersections lead to long friendships which create other intersections, while others just fade into the general tapestry of our timelines. It's hard to imagine what and why and how, but our Master Weaver does have something beautiful in mind for each of us.

Plan B

2012-01-22T22:41:00.000-05:00

from Thursday, January 19th~

I met up with 3 fabulous girlfriends in St. Augustine today. We had a lovely authentic Mexican meal and then wandered the streets for a bit. When we returned to the charming Victorian we'd rented out, we found the lock box completely jammed. Fortunately we were able to call the owner and relieved when she said there was a "Plan B".

"Plan B" was an extra key hidden in a faux sprinkler head. Only- there was no faux sprinkler head. I'm very sure of that because we dug with our bare hands through all the mulch and even some packed dirt. Some neighbors even helped look. Eventually a locksmith was called and an hour later, we were inside again.

Some would say this was an ominous start to the trip, I say that we met our mishap quota early on, so the rest of the trip can be perfect!

Wired

2012-01-18T12:27:00.000-05:00

Wednesday, January 18~

I spent the morning crafting with one of my most inspirational friends. She is crafty and creative in a way that I can't even comprehend. EVERY project she puts her hand to turns out better than you could buy in a store. That's talent! This morning, we made abstract wire necklaces. These are fun and simple and I think I got decent results.

Issues

2012-01-18T01:22:00.000-05:00

from Tuesday, the 17th of January~

Computer problems, nee internet problems are so frustrating! In the past all our IT-wise friends have rushed in and saved us. This time, most everyone was out of town or unavailable or baffled by the issue. We finally gave in a called a professional. At $75 a hour, he was still less expensive than the Geek Squad guys. At the end of the day, it all gets written off as a business expense. At least I've been working a lot. It could be worse. Still, my mind keeps trying to figure out exactly how many brackets I have to make to pay this bill!

Curry

2012-01-18T01:15:00.000-05:00

from Monday, January 16th~

Every Monday should be a curry day. After a good morning work out, there's always a half dozen errands to be run. The afternoon is a futile attempt to catch up on housework. Then it's time to cook dinner.

Curry fits the bill! It's bright, warm, full of veggies & protein- and it tastes great! If only there wasn't the clean up...

Brackets

2012-01-18T01:10:00.000-05:00

from Sunday, January 15th~

This Sunday passes like most others. The warm, uplifting embrace of church, the friendly laughter and genuine conversation over a shared meal with friends, a brief (but cozy) nap, the sluggish return to church for more learning and sharing, and finally the tucking in of one, exceptionally bright and charming 4 year old. Then it's back to bracket world!

January is a flag bracket month. I assemble, card and package thousands of the little suckers. It's about 75 hours a month of work. That's a part time job and in the back of my mind, the whole month, is the deadlines and what part of the process I need to get done that day. Sometimes I even dream about the things!

Tea Time

2012-01-18T01:00:00.002-05:00

Saturday, the 14th of January-

The best Saturday of the year so far! I met my friend Amy for tea. She was running late, so I got to sit in the sun, sip my favorite tea and have a few quiet moments to myself. When Amy did arrive, we had "High Tea" and spent the next couple house catching up. I don't know what about tea invites good conversation, but it never fails to!

Why I'm a Dog Person

2012-01-18T00:53:00.001-05:00

from Friday, the 13th of January-

I'm quite down today. It's a combination of many things. I'm tired emotionally and physically and things in my house are breaking. It's a whirlpool of unpleasant feelings.

So I've landed on the couch and I've just got that overwhelmed feeling in my chest. I'm praying, but not in words. Then this little face peers up at me...

I pat his head and he licks me. It's soothing. He pats my arm with his paw and we just sit together... and I do feel a little better.

I Get By With A Little Help From My Friends

2012-01-06T11:06:00.003-05:00

Sometimes blogging seems absolutely futile, but I think it keeps my writing "skills" somewhat in tact. I have so many thoughts during the day that I think I could blog about, but when I sit down to do it, they disappear. I do remember one thing from before the holidays that I thought was sort of share-worthy.

Years ago I purchased this painting for a friend a couple years ago. Initially I thought the figures were on bicycles, but when I got it home and looked carefully, I saw they were just walking. I decided to get my friend something else and just stuck the painting in my closet, where it fell on my head probably a dozen times or so. I always liked it, but it just doesn't go with my decor.

When I opened my The (Ri)Charmed Life shop on Etsy, I decided to list this. I could tell it was at least 20 years old, but after hours of research I could neither lock down a date range or even an artist. I listed it anyway and hoped someone else would be drawn to it the way I was.

About a month after I had it up, I got an email on Etsy from someone who recognized the painter's signature and style. Turns out this is by by artist Alfred George Morgan and dates around 1900.He's actually fairly well known in the UK. He was a painter of still life, dead game, fruit and flowers, genre, portraits, landscapes, historical and scriptural subjects. He exhibited from 1862 to 1904, at the Royal Academy from 1864 until 1904, British Institution, Suffolk Street, Grosvenor Gallery and elsewhere. Titles at the Royal Academy include: ‘The Young Pretender’, 1864, ‘A Dead Pheasant’, 1867 and ‘Return of the Prodigal Son’, 1902. Two of his paintings ‘Cat and Dead Pigeons’ and ‘Part of the Ruins of Whitby Abbey’ are in the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Pretty cool, right?! I love when someone on Etsy is able to give me more info on something. I mean, I do do lots of research when I list an item, but sometimes there's just too few clues to entirely know. This painting is another one that the artist was identified by an fellow Etsian. She's by Jessie Willcox-Smith, the fabulous illustrator.

PS- You can click on either painting to go to see their listings.

2011- A Not So Brief Commentary

2012-01-02T17:57:00.002-05:00

If 2010 was a heartbreaking and wretched year, then 2011 was a making sense of it all year. There were a lot of tearful moments, but I can’t honestly say it was a bad year because I’ve learned so much. I truly embraced the concept of growth through suffering and that all things do work out for my good as long as I’m keeping my eyes and heart on God. Of course, there are moments when I still feel a little picked on, but they don’t usually last that long.

Highs of the Year

First and foremost has to be my trip to Asia. Our time in China was blessed and I still think about the people we met every day. Some dreams when realized are not quite what we hoped- China was better than I ever imagined. Of course, none of it would’ve been possible without the support of Jason and my in-laws.

I was also happy to form and be part of a women’s prayer walk & service group simply called Outpouring. I’m not sure what 2012 will bring for us, but the willingness of this group to serve in both large and small capacities was a huge encouragement to me. Prayer walking downtown Clearwater has been a humbling and yet powerful and I’m looking forward to picking that up again this year.

Along with Outpouring, I accepted the opportunity to serve on my church’s local mission board. Helping plan and carryout larger community service projects is a little stressful to me, but it is all worth it to be able to give people just a small taste of God’s love. In 2010, I did a lot of reading about faith in action and surrendered to wherever that would take me. 2011 gave me many chances to follow through.

Jason changed jobs this year. Saying goodbye to lots of people who love our little family- and have tracked Julian’s latest developments for years- was sad. The new job was practically handed to Jason and, although it’s been very challenging, we’re grateful for it.

My jewelry business did very well this year, especially considering the economy. I still have a lot of things I want to do differently and I need to be better organized, but I feel like I’m on a good track. I also added a new shop on Etsy to sell some of my stockpile of antiques and stuff I can’t resist at the thrift store. I need to develop and promote that more, but, again, I feel like it’s going in a good direction.

This year I got to see my family a bit more than usual. In the spring, Julian and I went up to Missouri for a short visit. In May, I met up with my parents at the Taj Mahal and then traveled up to Nepal with them. That was an amazing trip and I loved seeing what they do and meeting many sweet brothers & sisters in Katmandu and beyond. When my mom & dad came to visit us this fall, Joy & kids came with and I got to show them our town. Since my folks aren’t in the States during the holidays often, we went up to Missouri again for Christmas. It was a bittersweet trip, but what a delightful Christmas Day we had at my aunt & uncle’s renovated church-house!

Lows of the Year

This year was dramatic and stressful. I had maggots drop onto my head and ants invade my coffee pot. Some friendships broke down while others stalled- and yet new relationships began and others deepened. It does take an emotional toll when things shift and I’m not a person that handles change well. I’m a creative type that also doesn’t handle a super busy schedule with ease. I felt overbooked and under energized for months at a time.

My health has been in an unpleasant homeostasis. For various reasons, it’s been a year since I’ve been able to be on my thyroid medication. Most of the lovely symptoms of Hypothyroidism (fatigue, sluggishness, dry skin, a puffy face, weight gain, muscle aches and stiffness, depression) have made it challenging to function normally, but I have certainly tried to. When enough time has passed from our last miscarriage for my hormones return to their “normal” state, I do hope to get sorted out. It’s almost to the point where I don’t even remember what it feels like not to be tired.

Two days before Christmas, my dear Grandma Weeks passed from this world. We were able to spend time with her before she died and also to attend the funeral so that was a blessing. Still, my heart aches when I think about how long it could be before I see her again.

Resolutions

Hospitality- I’m resolving to open my home more. That means I’ll have to develop better cleaning habits, but I really want to have a home that God can use to encourage others. Yes, it’s a little small and the yard is untamable. I’m not a gourmet chef, but if we call it cozy and say we serve home style food, then it’s all good!

Training- to run the good race, I need to renew my commitment to daily time in scripture. I’m also committing to reading Bible stories with Julian every day and beginning scripture memorization with him.

I’m keeping it simple this year, so that’s it. Part of me is over the whole resolution thing, but then I think that a new year is a great opportunity to evaluate and make a public commitment to positive change, so why not take advantage of that?

Not As Random as It Seems

2011-12-14T01:02:00.000-05:00

I'm always left with odd beads after projects so every now and then I do what is the jewelry equivalent to a crazy quilt. There is an art to even "crazy" projects so it's not mindless stringing, but there is something freeing about not having a pattern or any sort of expectation about what something will look like when it's finished. I did just a couple of these in August and they sold before I even listed them on Etsy. I finally finished the rest of the batch and listed them today. Here they are- I'll admit, they don't look amazing in photographs, but they really pop in person. I wore the last one this weekend and everywhere I went people complimented it.

These necklaces always make me draw the comparison to life and how random things often seem. I think God is both the maker and the string that makes all the things that happen in our lives become something more than just circumstances and happenstance.

Sales

2011-12-12T15:30:00.000-05:00

I'm always amazed at what sells super quick. I listed and sold this cute teapot within about 3 hours.

I love when that happens. Other things have to simmer. This painting has had a lot of looks, but finally just sold after being up since August.

Any sale is a good sale though, whenever it finally happens!

The Rack

2011-12-08T08:45:00.000-05:00

Ah... the sweet sound of a not-quite-so-stressful schedule! This week wrapped up my last big commitment through the end of the year. Not to say we have nothing to do: I'm helping out the Bay Area Pregnancy Center tonight, we have Richarme family Christmas Sunday, as well as music, going to a hockey game Monday, etc. It's just I don't have to plan anything. I don't have to promote anything. I don't have to feel the pressure of hoping things succeed.

I think it's been good in some ways to be stretched like I was the last couple months. I really saw how much I can rely on God and how He always comes through one way or another. In the past I've relied on friends for support and help and that's just not a reliable source, as much as we'd like it to be.

Isaiah 40:28-31
Have you not known? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength. Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.

Shell Power!

2011-12-03T00:21:00.001-05:00

I use a lot of shell in my jewelry. It's something I can get locally and in some cases, free! I have accumulated a bit of it. My jewelry use to mainly sell in a downtown Safety Harbor boutique that saw a bit of seasonal and tourist traffic. I catered many of my designs to that crowd. Recently I've found myself moving away from the shell-heavy pieces. I still like that component, but I'm not feeling inspired by it lately.

So I'm starting to "destash" some of my shells. The bigger pieces I used for display. The large abalone shells I still am not sure I want to let go. They have a certain luxuriousness to them...

Anyway, I staged these photos on the back of egg crate foam and was pleasantly surprised how much it resembles sand.

Books...

2011-12-01T22:54:00.000-05:00

Much to my husband's surprise, when he came home last night I was listing some of my old books on The(Ri)charmedLife page. I hate to do it, but I am out of shelf space and these are hardcover, thick volumes. I don't mind if they take awhile to sell though. They look pretty awesome just sitting there stacked!

Refining

2011-11-30T08:59:00.000-05:00

I Peter 4:12-13 (MSG)

Friends, when life gets really difficult, don't jump to the conclusion that God isn't on the job. Instead, be glad that you are in the very thick of what Christ experienced. This is a spiritual refining process, with glory just around the corner.

A Fair Trade Christmas to All!

2011-11-22T11:04:00.001-05:00

It’s Thanksgiving week and we soon will begin expressing our gratitude for our loved ones in the Christmas gifts we purchase for them. For some, we know exactly what they want and have maybe even already ordered it. Others are harder to buy for. Might I suggest that those people can be twice blessed? Here’s how- by purchasing a gift that helps out a struggling family, you aid the family and make the person who is receiving the gift feel like they made a difference in someone’s life. It’s a beautiful thing!

For the person who has it all and really doesn’t want anything more brought into their home:

www.worldvision.org - visit their Ways to Give page for a variety of aid items you can purchase for malnourished children and barely surviving families

World Vision project in Sierra Leone

www.compassion.com- Christ centered and child focused, Compassion seeks to help both the physical and spiritual needs of impoverished children
www.globalgirlfriend.com- has lovely clothing and accessories, but I love their Gifts That Give More options

And for those of us who love unwrapping something:

www.linksofhope.org- The Links of Hope Network has beautiful jewelry, the sales of which go to providing deaf children with the tools, skills, and supplies to make their own jewelry. The income earned keeps them off the streets.

www.tribesandnations.com.au- Tribes & Nations is one of my new finds this year. They sell textile items from the Priscilla Centre in India- an organization that my dad was able to visit and thought highly of. This online store has kid stuff, accessories, food and the most gorgeous recycled sari quilts you’ve ever seen. It’s all fair trade and works to battle poverty in SE Asia.


                                                   Artisan at the Priscilla Centre

shop.equalexchange.com- your fair trade source for organic deliciousness! Equal Exchange is no-brainer gift source for your coffee and/or chocolate loving friends. Equal Exchange uses ingredients from small farmer co-operatives from eight rural communities from the Andes to Madagascar. Their fair trade systems and auditing also protect against the use of forced child labor.

www.thebodyshop-usa.com- This mainstream company supports over 25,000 farmers & community producers all over the globe. Check out their Values & Campaigns page to read more about that and their campaigns to end child sex trafficking, help victims of domestic violence and stop the spread of HIV. If you like Bath & Body Works type products- the Body Shop will blow you away. The beauty products are fantastic and their bath items don’t just smell good, they actually work. (My good skin? I’ve used their skin care line for over 5 years now!) Can you tell I use to sell it? =p

                                                   Body Shop community partner

www.globalgoodspartners.org- Global Goods partners with over 40 different groups to stock their online shop. They have lots of things for kids and pets and smaller gifts that make good stocking stuffers. The items are all fair trade and their sale helps improve the economic status of women globally, as an integral part of a plan to eradicating poverty and building civil society.

www.tenthousandvillages.com- Ten Thousand Villages has very high quality gifts from communities all over the world, all fair trade! Their partners live in places where skilled artisan lack opportunities for stable income. Product sales help pay for food, education, healthcare and housing for artisans who would otherwise be unemployed or underemployed.

Where we spend our money says a lot about our priorities. Let’s show our love for not just the people in our lives, but also for fellow human beings who were not born with the socioeconomic advantages we have been given.

Simple & Complicated as this...

2011-11-21T16:43:00.000-05:00

But He's already made it plain how to live,

what to do,
what God is looking for in men and women.
It's quite simple:

Do what is fair and just to your neighbor,
be compassionate and loyal in your love,
And don't take yourself too seriously—
take God seriously.

-Micah 6:8

Perspective

2011-11-19T21:37:00.000-05:00

I had a not so great craft show I did today, but I have to say it was kind of a cool experience. I just kind of sat and prayed through the whole thing. I trust that God will provide for us so I just expressed my thanks for that and didn't worry too much about how many sales I made. I really felt peace because I just kept thinking that God brings me the sales I need. I also asked Him that the people who were there that needed the money the most, would have the most success. This relationship with God thing isn't a fix it pill- I didn't start praying and have a mob gather at my table- but it turned what could have been a disappointment into a fun day of fellowship.

Agate Necklaces

2011-11-16T16:50:00.000-05:00

Working on inventory for my holiday sales. It's fun, but it's also a little extra stressful this year because we are going away for the holidays. I'll miss the last minute sale venues, but really I need to make some money for the trip. We really shouldn't be going away this year, but there are things beyond our control that make it very important too. I believe it's my grandmother's last Christmas and my parents are home from India for the holidays, which they only do once every 5 years. I want to go, we have to go, it's just hard on the budget!

This spring I got a handful of the Turkish agate slices I like. My contact for those moved away, so it'll probably be my last bunch for a while. I'm not sure where else I can find ones that are heat treated, not dyed, and are fair trade. I've made just about all of them up. The necklaces won't be on Etsy until next week so if you want them before that you'll have to come see me at Harborside this weekend.

Supplies

2011-11-15T16:18:00.001-05:00

Some really cool vintage supplies I just listed:

I'm so tempted to keep the buttons and make some jewelry with them. I just... well, I have a hard time keeping the buttons facing out and sliding down, facing the floor. If I figure it out, I might just keep 'em!

The other thing I've listed is a huge bag of vintage quilting scraps, squares and even a partially finished piece. I wish I knew all the terminology for the squares! This is an item that I'm kind of thinking I'd like to finish one day.

Birthday Musings

2011-11-14T15:57:00.000-05:00

It's my birthday! Woke up with horrid cramps, didn't get my morning coffee and the only thing in the mailbox was my a hospital bill from my last miscarriage in December. Not the day I'd hoped for, but it's still a good day because I have love in my life and hope in my heart. I did have a killer weekend so I'm not complaining about birthday acknowledgement. Tonight when J gets home, we are going to go claim a free birthday dinner. A friend volunteered to take Julian, so that's another sweet birthday gift. J's sister gave me a bottle of my favorite wine yesterday so we even have something delicious to toast the day with.

Some days start off unpleasantly in ways that we can't control, but we always have the choice to remember the good things that have happened and look forward to the good things to come. We don't have to fall into the Pit of Despair.

From birth I have relied on you; you brought me forth from my mother's womb. I will ever praise you. -Psalm 71:6

Finding the Beautiful

2011-11-08T08:59:00.000-05:00

I don't spend enough time in Ecclesiastes. I mean, I can barely spell it and I minored in Bible! Anyway, I found myself there this morning. I don't have an ugly life by any stretch of the imagination. In fact, my life is full and very blessed. Still there are moments when I just don't know how God is going to work out a situation or why certain things have happened. I felt like God really gave these verses to me this morning and I want to share them.

Ecclesiastes 3:11-15 (NIV)

¹¹ He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yetno one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end. ¹² I know that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live. ¹³ That each of them may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all their toil—this is the gift of God. ¹⁴ I know that everything God does will endure forever; nothing can be added to it and nothing taken from it. God does it so that people will fear him.

¹⁵ Whatever is has already been,
and what will be has been before;
and God will call the past to account.

58:

2011-11-07T09:01:00.000-05:00

I am so overdue on posting... It's been busy (and that's actually a gross understatement). We're about to head off to the Glazer Children's Museum. Last night I saw a documentary called 58:. It's about extreme poverty around the world and the Christian response in light of Isaiah 58. If you ever get the opportunity, you should see it. The website of the movement is http://www.live58.org/.

Fall Flower Arrangement

2011-10-26T09:53:00.000-04:00

Made this yesterday. They're super easy and a nice way to say. "Hey fall, how you doin'?".

Here's what you need:

Smallish pumpkin

Carving knife

Small disposable plastic cup

Preservative mix*

Fresh flowers in fall colors

Carve hole in pumpkin top, large enough for the plastic cup to fit snugly in.
Gut the pumpkin
Fill up plastic cup halfway with flower preservative*
Place cup in the pumpkin
Trim flowers to fit in the plastic cup
Arrange flowers

*2 cups lemon-lime carbonated beverage (e.g., Sprite™ or 7-Up™)
1/2 teaspoon household chlorine bleach
2 cups warm water

New

2011-10-17T12:34:00.001-04:00

I'm really searching about what to write about today. I have several half-baked ideas that I'm not quite ready to roll out yet. This weekend was good. Today has started off well too. Thankfully this week isn't the insanity that last week was. I actually was able to list some more things in my antiques Etsy shop. Here's a few of the items, you can click on the caption to go to the Etsy listing.

Poppies!

One of the best Kamenstein pieces I've ever come across

Tweet, tweet

Sigh... I do love my shop. When I look at it, I'm proud because it isn't like one of those crappy flea market stalls full of junk. It's got things that I truly like and that give me positive vibes. I don't know another way of putting it. I often feel like Etsy buyers are people that I'm happy to share my little treasure with and that makes letting go of these things okay. I know they are going to people who appreciate them as much as I do.

Best of Epigrams, Fragments & Light Verse

2011-10-12T19:05:00.000-04:00

I always feel like I have to follow up long blogs with short ones. But then I am a novice blogger at best. I often feel like this should be called The (Ri)schizophrenic Life. I do have something light today. I recently read Demetri Martin's latest book and just loved the chapter entitled Epigrams, Fragments & Light Verse. Here are a few of my favorite selections...

The bird,

The bee, 

The running child,

Are all the same

To the sliding glass door.

---------------------------------

Leave no stone unturned

In your quest to

Disrupt a rock garden.

---------------------------------

Ask 3 economists the same question

And you will get 4 different answers

That are equally long and boring to listen to.

---------------------------------

Man:

Never more like a snowstorm

than when he sneezes 

whilst eating rice.

---------------------------------

A Wish Granted:

If only I could be sold more things, more of the time by larger and larger corporations.

---------------------------------

"It is better to kill someone with kindness."

Indeed, it is.

May I suggest showering them with gifts, very heavy gift.

All excerpts by Demetri Martin in This Is A Book

Checkup

2011-10-10T05:06:00.001-04:00

I've been thinking a lot about really evaluating where I'm at spiritually. Part of me wishes God would send a progress report every 6 months. Most of me is glad He doesn't though! There are lots of things we Christians use congratulate or at least comfort ourselves with. Stuff like- I'm at church pretty much every Sunday, my church reaches out to the marginalized, I feed the homeless, my kids go to Christian school, I'm doing 3 Bible studies, I teach a Bible study, I prayed with my spouse last night, I can quote the book of James, I always write verses in birthday cards, I'm a deacon, I'm on a church committee, my church is such an exact model of the old testament church that we don't have committees, I have a fish on the back of my car, I have a cross tattoo, a life group meets in my home, I've been on a mission trip, etc. There's nothing wrong with most of these things. I'm hoping every person can identify with at least a couple things on this list, actually.

But do any of these things we do really tell us how we're doing spiritually?

Here's a list (the fruit of the Spirit) that we can use to evaluate. As you read, don't think, have I achieved this perfectly in my life? The question is am I getting better or worse in this area? If the answer is worse- it's not a matter of trying harder. These are the fruit of the Spirit, not the fruit of the person trying really, really hard. The solution is to humbly go before God and ask for His help and obey when He guides you. If you do see these traits increasing in your life, thank God and don't get cocky, kid!

Without further ado, here it is...

But the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) is

Love- this love is the Agape love or unconditional love. Do you love people? Not just your friends or family either. Do you love the people who are most different from you, who you have nothing in common with, who society would pit you against?

Joy- Not to be confused with happiness, but do you feel and choose joy regardless of your situation, regardless of your past?

Peace- Is your first reaction to something complaining? Are you quick to take insult? Do you tend to listen to your thoughts and emotions over God's promises? Do you run to trouble or live on the edge of what is permissible?

Patience- some translations call this long suffering. Do you feel angry or frustrated when God doesn’t move when we want Him to move? Are you irritated with people who may slow you down in reaching a destination or goal? Does your anger flair up when you have to wait for something or someone?

Kindness- Do you routinely find yourself helping others? Are you an encourager or a pessimist or what some would loftily call a realist?

Goodness- Do you make right choices when no one else is around? Do you assume the best of people?

Faithfulness- Do you still trust God even when you're not be able to see the outcome of what He's doing in your life? Do you allow circumstances to create doubts about your faith? Do you keep serving even when it's not fun? Do you follow through on your commitments?

Gentleness- sometimes called meekness. Do you think your opinions and actions are above question? Are you willing to put another's needs ahead of your own? When you must confront someone, do you do it in a loving and kind way or in a fit of anger?

Self-control- Are you able to walk away from things that are permissible but not beneficial? Do you control your emotions or do your emotions control you? Can you forgo an immediate gratification that might result in a long term problem? Can you go against the crowd when God calls you to?

So I don't want you to post your answers to these questions. If you are a Christian, I just invite you to join me in really taking stock in what direction our walk with Christ is going. Compared to a year or two ago, have you grown in Christ or are you allowing your sin nature to be victorious? Those are the only 2 answers really.

Big Ship

2011-10-07T11:02:00.003-04:00

Sold my lovely black velvet matador painting this week. I'm happy about that, there wasn't a place for it here. I just panicked when I realized I had to ship the big guy! I've been selling on eBay and even Etsy for quite sometime. Nothing stresses me out like shipping large objects so I usually don't list stuff that's bigger than a few square feet.

I managed to frankenstein together two large boxes and I used lots of bubble wrap and what seemed like a whole roll of good packing tape. The painting is secure, but the packaging isn't very pretty. I hope the buyer isn't put off by that.

So anybody have any helpful tips for me? Even if someone could point me in the direction of where to get large, flat boxes, that would be appreciated too as I currently have a couple other paintings up in my shop.

In other news: The Fortunate Home is the Tampa Bay Etsy Crew Member of the Week!

More Hope for a Fool

2011-10-04T16:02:00.000-04:00

Ugh... I'm feeling really disrespected by someone and I'm doing my best not to shoot them a fiery email. I have grounds to and in my brain I've formulated a scathing and factual description of what went down. But... I'm not sure it would do anything to better the situation or would in any way advance the kingdom of God, so I'm just waiting for my anger to subside before I address things.

As I'm thinking about what I needed to say, I start thinking about all the times I've emailed or texted in anger and how it never makes the problem any better. So I'm just praying and asking for wisdom. Kind of randomly I came across Ecclesiastes 10:12. It says, The words of a wise man's mouth are gracious, but the lips of a fool shall swallow him up. Then I spotted Proverbs 29:20, Do you see a man hasty in his words? There is more hope for a fool than for him. Okay, God, I get it!

Stone Soup

2011-10-01T17:17:00.004-04:00

One of the Etsy blogs I follow is Confessions of a Newlywed. She's doing a great giveaway that you should jump in on!

A big happy birthday shout out to my niece, Leia. Can't believe what a young lady she's becoming. Girl can paint fingernails better than I can!

Just got my cute kokeshi doll checks in the mail!

Lean Pockets Pretzel Bread Sandwiches? Ah-mazing! They have just the right amount of salt and I love the texture of the pretzel. The turkey bacon one is completely worthy of trying.

Well done is better than well said. ~Benjamin Franklin

Remember, people will judge you by your actions, not your intentions. You may have a heart of gold - but so does a hard-boiled egg.

2011-09-29T17:24:00.000-04:00

Nothing fancy today, just a quote that I saw and thought worthy of reposting. (Of course, I have yet to come across a C.S. Lewis quote that wasn't!)

It may be hard for an egg to turn into a bird: it would be a jolly sight harder for it to learn to fly while remaining an egg. We are like eggs at present. And you cannot go on indefinitely being just an ordinary, decent egg. We must be hatched or go bad. -C.S. Lewis

Books

2011-09-27T13:21:00.003-04:00

   So just a couple book recommendations today. I think they kind of go together. The first is Eva Scrivo on Beauty. It's one of these beauty books that comes out every so often. Eva Scrivo is a world renown hairstylist and makeup artist so she's got a lot of "in the trenches" experience. She's very detailed and good at explaining the why of certain things. She doesn't stop with just hair and makeup though. She also has information on living healthy and lots more. I've read many books of this kind, but this one has such a positive tone and current and doable information, I really enjoyed it.

   It was kind of interesting to read that along side Made to Crave, the book study my women's group at church is doing. I'm still in the beginning stages of the study but I think the point is that our cravings (food, sex, shoes, whatever...) can come in between our relationship with God so they need to be put down. We're talking about how our cravings often have power over us and affect the healthiness of not just our bodies, but our souls.

   I think the books relate because both really hit on the fact that it's not deprivation to say no to foods that don't help us. It's empowering to eat well and take care of the body God has gifted us with. Yeah, it's a stretch, but my brain kept connecting the two so I'm going with it!

Deeper Connection

2011-09-25T12:02:00.000-04:00

I love Sunday mornings- even if the night before I was up until after 3 working on Etsy or secret shopper stuff. Maybe it's because I know that many of my friends are also dwelling on God and worshiping Him. There's just like a collective spiritual outpouring that makes my heart skip a beat. I guess there's nothing like being in love and getting to share that love with millions of brothers and sisters who feel the same way.

Fine Feathers

2011-09-22T19:52:00.001-04:00

It is not only fine feathers that make fine birds. ~Aesop

I really enjoy my girlier side. Clothes are fun, make up is fun, accessories are fun... I even sell jewelry! It's important to remind ourselves often that our outer image is not what makes us a good friend, partner, sister, human, whatever. Rather it's our inner qualities that speak the loudest. As a mom, I don't often have a lot of time for preening. That's fine, it comes with the phase of life I'm in. What's not fine is allowing that to be an excuse for not continuing personal growth.

I think God blesses us in that our busiest times are often the testing grounds for things we have learned about or considered in quieter moments. So take courage, hang in there and know that even if tomorrow isn't a skinny day or a calm, reflective day, it is still a day where you can let your fine-ness show!

$cientology- from L. Ron's Great Grandson

2011-09-16T10:25:00.001-04:00

This video gives me chills. My city has been overtaken by this cult. Everyone who has been downtown has seen the brainwashed packs scurrying about, but hearing this account from a family member- it takes it to a whole new level...

Night Owl

2011-09-15T00:53:00.002-04:00

One day I'll sleep at night like normal people. By the time I realize that my brain isn't going to shut down, it's too late to take a melatonin. If I take one and can't get at least 8 hours sleep, it's bad in the morning, real bad. Still it's just as bad for Juju when mommy is exhausted in the afternoon.

Any way, late at night I get creative anyway or I'm able to get on the internet and pull up bands I like or read book reviews, etc. I really wish my brain functioned this well in the morning instead! I'm genuinely jealous of morning people, but I'm also really happy that Julian isn't one either.

Oh the pain...

2011-09-14T09:43:00.000-04:00

So my fall workout regiment has certainly kicked off with a a boom. (Almost a literal one, as I had to roll out of bed this morning.) Actually, it's not just the exercise schedule, it's all just our entire weekly schedule that's started. We go from basically nothing in the summer to something every single morning, and most evenings. I wish there was a slower transition!

Still, being Julian's mom is fun and I like that we share these days. He's only going to be 3 once and we've only got 5 months of that left! Next year at this time, he'll be in VPK and who knows what my days will look like.

Sit on It!

2011-09-13T14:49:00.000-04:00

The coolest thing just happened. Yesterday a friend of mine- who knows how I crave all things Asian- spotted an amazing deal on a vintage lacquered Chinese Chippendale sofa. I couldn't get there so she went ahead and got it for me. So today I went over and measured it. As I was doing so, a lady came over and was watching. I let her know it had been purchased the day before and she told me she was the person who had donated it! I've been thrifting for years and have never had that happen. She was able to tell me when and where she got it and how much she'd loved it. The only reason she was parting with it was that she was moving into an assisted living facility and it was too bulky to go with her. I think she was very pleased that it was going to another home that would cherish it. She looked like she wanted to hug me. =p

This photo is the style of the sofa. It looks very similar, but has slightly shorter legs. The lacquer finish is in need of some repair and the cushions are covered in some gross old woolly fabric. I'm kind of excited to pick out new fabric for the cushion slipcovers. I have a roll of celadon upholstery fabric, that I used in my wedding, that might work. I'm just nervous about having a lighter colored fabric and small kids in the house. Whatever I decide, it's going to be a fun project!

Soap it up!

2011-09-12T15:50:00.000-04:00

This past weekend I took my Groupon coupon and my friend Heather to Milagros to get our soap on. What an amazing place! We sniffed dozens of gourmet soaps while sipping margaritas. It was so hard to decide which flavor I wanted for the bar of soap I was going to make. It was a pretty fierce battle between Orange Blossom and Vanilla Patchouli, but the Patchouli won out in the end. Then came the design decisions... what color background, what cut outs, finishes, etc. It took a long time to figure out what I wanted to do, but in the end I'm pretty pleased with the result.

I'm always looking for unconventional girls night out ideas and this is a great one! To make a group reservation, just go to www.sisteragnes.com/ and call the number for the location that is closest to you.

So what is your favorite girls night out activity?

Vintage Stylings

2011-09-08T11:36:00.001-04:00

I just made a treasury of plus sized vintage. I love vintage clothes but it's challenging to find them in my size in styles I actually like. My favorite pieces other people actually picked up for me. I have a few pieces that I'm ready to part with but I'm having a hard time figuring out if I want it to go in my The (Ri)Charmed Life shop or my Richarme Jewelry shop. I have vintage jewelry in the jewelry shop, so initially I leaned that way, but I don't think I want to dilute that brand with objects other than jewelry. I also had a thought of opening a third Etsy shop and moving all the vintage jewelry over there and adding the clothes to that. Maybe call it (Ri)Charming or Richarme Retro or something like that. Thoughts?

Forever is a Long, Long Time

2011-09-07T09:00:00.000-04:00

When I was younger I use to think that maybe heaven didn't sound like too much fun. I thought it would be exciting at first to see everyone else and to actually see God. I thought it would be interesting to talk about all those things I've wanted to ask God. I like to sing, I like to eat, so those things sounded okay too. But I always had this question of what after all that, won't we get bored at some point? I couldn't imagine being content with that. I had the Judgement House image of everyone being in white and walking around quietly or singing for hours and hours

Of course over the years, I 've had opportunity to study Revelations a couple times and while it certainly maintains the mystery, I do know God still has a purpose for us and we won't just be drifting around. As I grow as a Christian though, I long more and more just to be with God so even if that were it, that would be more than enough. I'm lucky to get to sing with the church praise band and over the years it's really made me look forward to being able to sing my praise directly to God and tell Him face to face how much I love Him and how magnificent He is. Hillsong's Revelation Song really moves me right now. It's . Here are the lyrics:

Worthy is the,
Lamb who was slain
Holy, Holy, is He
Sing a new song, to Him who sits on
Heaven's Mercy Seat
Holy, Holy, Holy
Is the Lord God Almighty
Who was, and is, and is to come
With all creation I sing:
Praise to the King of Kings!
You are my everything,
And I will adore You…!

Clothed in rainbows, of living color
Flashes of lightning, rolls of thunder
Blessing and honor, strength and
Glory and power be
To You the Only Wise King
Holy, Holy, Holy
Is the Lord God Almighty
Who was, and is, and is to come, yeah
With all creation I sing:
Praise to the King of Kings!
You are my everything,
And – I - will - adore You!

Filled with wonder,
Awestruck wonder
At the mention of Your Name
Jesus, Your Name is Power
Breath, and Living Water
Such a marvelous mystery

Holy, Holy, Holy
Is the Lord God Almighty
Who was, and is, and is to come, yeah
With all creation I sing:
Praise to the King of Kings!
You are my everything,
And – I - will - adore You!

Holy, Holy, Holy
Is the Lord God Almighty
Who was, and is, and is to come,
With all creation I sing:
Praise to the King of Kings!
You are my everything,
And – I - will - adore YOU…

Come up lift up His Name
To the King of Kings…
We will adore YOU Lord…
King of heaven and earth
King Jesus, King Jesus
Aleluya, aleluya, aleluya!
Majesty, awestruck Honor
And Power and Strength and Dominion
To You Lord,
To the King, to King
To the King of Glory

A Useful Collection

2011-09-02T09:31:00.002-04:00

I'm a collector by nature. One of my favorite collections is of Asian figural drink mugs. I never get more than one of each type. I have all the ones the local teppanyaki places have and I rarely see any in the thrift shops that I don't already have so it's slow going these days.

The girl on the right was my first one and still one of the finest crafted ones I've ever seen. The straw hole in her arm is perfect to stick the paper flowers I brought home from China in. There is a panda bear one that I'm debating about getting. The problem is that he is black and white with green bamboo. I kind of want an all white collection and the painting on the panda bear is of pretty poor quality.

I've found these are useful for hanging jewelry off of or in. Since the backs are very open I also like to hide stuff in them like room spray, my cell phone charger, pens, etc. The only thing I probably wouldn't use them for is drinks! I don't know why, the thought just kind of grosses me out.

So what do you collect?

The things of happy days

2011-08-26T09:40:00.001-04:00

I found a treasure at the library last week. It's called Amy Barickman's Vintage Notions. It's really a charming book filled with the wit and insight of Mary Brooks Picken, a true domestic goddess and at the same time a true intellectual. (She was the fist female author of a dictionary!) I love the books art work. It's in that adorable 1920's style. If you love vintage, you will love this book! (Wow, I just went all Reading Rainbow on you... )

I also enjoyed reading her (and Amy's) thoughts on fashion, housework, beauty, etc. This book is a slice out of time, but it also showed how little the female heart and soul have changed. Here's a Douglas Malloch poem, from the book, that I really connected with. I think it's sentiments are ones that all of us that sell on Etsy, eBay, Craigslist, whatever, shouldn't forget.

"So much is bought, so much is sold,

We miss the value of

The things that are not sold or bought,

The gifts that only loving brought,

The words of honest praise

The friendly smile, the friendly thought -

The things of happy days"

Douglas Malloch

On the Road

2011-08-25T11:24:00.000-04:00

Julian and I are about to embark on a day trip. I'll let you know how it goes...

By the way, the Tampa Bay Etsy Crew Team Member of the Week is The Quilting Violinist. She also happens to be on blogspot too, so you can head over to her page to show her some love. Here's the post from Etsy:

This week's featured shop is TheQuiltingViolinist! I'd love to learn to quilt and really admire people who have the dedication to put these together. Quilts are really one of the earliest examples of recycling. Not only is Linda an amazing quilter, she plays with The Florida Orchestra! So give her some love and check out her shop: www.etsy.com/shop/TheQuiltingViolinist

LARGE Upcycled Selvage Bath Mat Rug

by TheQuiltingViolinist

$45.00 USD

Favorite

Zig Zag Triangle Lap Quilt

by TheQuiltingViolinist

$195.00 USD

Favorite

Queen Size Scrap Quilt

by TheQuiltingViolinist

$425.00 USD

Favorite

You can also follow her blog at www.TheQuiltingViolinist.blogspot.com
and "like" her facebook page: www.facebook.com/pages/The-Quilting-Violinist/166961913344382 .

Ready to Fall

2011-08-24T17:06:00.001-04:00

Lately there are a ton of Autumn treasuries popping up on Etsy. Here's one that I'm in today: http://www.etsy.com/treasury/MTQ3OTc4NzB8NjIwNjAxNDQ3/autum-is-the-best-time-of-year. I think everyone is tired of the heat. School has started, now it's time for the weather to chill as well. Of course, here in Florida we know we may still be sweating come Halloween or even Thanksgiving, God forbid!

When I think about fall, I think about caramel apples, leaf piles, carnivals (and then Something Wicked This Way Comes by default and then Ray Bradbury and then aliens, so I'm way off track at this point!), and hayrides and bonfires. It's a very nostalgic train of thought. I'm still trying to figure out how I can relive one night in my youth that had most of those elements (add in some kissing on the hayride too for a dash of romance!). The silly thing is that if I looked back in my diary at that night, there was probably also some drama and teenage angst, but I don't remember any of that. Just like when I'm totally freezing in January, I probably won't remember the sweat mustache I've had since the end of March.

Oh, were you waiting for me to tie this into something spiritual or Etsy related? The best I've got is Philippians 4:11 "... I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am." That's Paul saying that, I'm still working on it!

Shhhh!

2011-08-22T14:23:00.000-04:00

Really good talk yesterday morning out of James about being still before God. Our pastor blogged about it this morning too. As I sat and agreed with everything he said, I also found myself feeling really skeptical about actually having a quiet moment to do this practice. I'm a mom with a nice social life, a home business, several hobbies... there's just not a whole lot of silence. My brain is either replaying past events or thinking about what's next. It's really hard for me to focus on the present. (Probably why we had to come back to the house twice last night for things we forgot to bring with us!)

So today I woke up to Julian already bouncing around and just knew that today was not going to be a day with any quietness. I went to a meeting, dropped off and picked up Juju, went by a shop, made lunch, worked on my Etsy shop, took photos, listed some items, went to get Julian from his daily quiet time... and he was asleep! It's rare, but it does occasionally happen. Now I have 2 choices, flip on TV and catch up with my shows or do that solitude thing. Yeah, I can't tell what tomorrow is going to bring, but today, we're going to go for some quiet time with God.

Psalm 62:1, "I wait quietly before God for my victory comes from Him."

Special Ed

2011-08-18T11:47:00.001-04:00

It's Thursday which means I get to select a member from my Tampa Bay Etsy Crew to be Member of the Week. It's always hard to pick (nominations are welcome!) just one and then I only pick 3 items from the shop to feature. I love deciding though. It's nice to be singled out and told you're special so I enjoy doing that for someone every week.

If I get so much pleasure doing that for someone who is essentially a stranger, how much greater would that be if I did that for someone in my actual life?! So a bit of a challenge today- I'm going to tell at least one friend (family members count too) how special they are and how much I appreciate them. You do it too and tell me how it went!

PS- In case you were wondering, this is my TBEC Member of the Week pick:

MODAcrochet! Cilem designs and makes lovely crocheted accessories. I can totally picture myself strolling on the beach, after sushi at Kiku's, wearing one of her gorgeous shawls. She's actually doing an early Christmas sale, so I encourage you to check out her whole shop! www.etsy.com/shop/MODAcrochet

My picks:

Cowl, Red Pompon Scarf, Neckwarmer, wrap

by MODAcrochet

$35.00 USD

Favorite

Christmas sale 20% off - Grey Shawl- Neckwarmer- Scarf- Cowl...

by MODAcrochet

$55.00 USD

Favorite

Slouchy Hat in Mustard Yellow

by MODAcrochet

$30.00 USD

Favorite

(I think I've used this in a couple treasuries!)

EDIT; Just wanted to promote 2 of the blogs from CAST: Chronicles of a Cherished Wife and Confessions of a Newlywed

To list or not to list...

2011-08-16T10:14:00.003-04:00

Part of my art wall. No, I don't believe is hanging large collections straight!

I'm a collector. My house is chock full of vintage decor. Most of it is of Asian origin or design. I just love the overly ornate stuff of Thailand, India, Nepal, China and Japan. Still if I see anything of beauty at a good price, I have a very hard time resisting it. I think my hubby is concerned he's got a future hoarder on his hands! Maybe he's not too far off on that. I often get something home and realize I have no place for it to go. So... I opened another Etsy shop, The (Ri)Charmed Life, to help move some of these things to new homes and people that will love them.

I have a 3 year old son. He is all boy and he is slowly making his way through my breakable pieces. To save them, I have to let them go. Still, I'm finding it hard to let go of things. Like this fu dog...

He's turquoise- one of my favorite colors. He's of Chinese design. I like him a lot. However, I've seen Julian eyeing him. I think it's only a matter of time before he decides this would make a good villain for his Wiggles to conquer. I listed the white lusterware one I have. So I should list this too, right?

Yardwork

2011-08-15T15:48:00.000-04:00

There is a giant spiderweb right outside the window I'm sitting by. Part of me knows we really need to clean out back there, but part of me really enjoys the wild takeover of the backyard. There is so much life back there. Some of it a little creepy- black racer snakes, big ol' spiders, and shifty fruit rats. Some of it is beautiful- lots of butterflies, colorful birds and bright lizards. It's a whole ecosystem, but we can't use it. Julian can't play out there and even the dog doesn't like it. And it's going to take a lot of work and probably some money. So there's a decision to be made about what really is important.

I'm drawing a bit of a spiritual parallel to this. I think we like our lives colorful and easy and are even willing to tolerate some ugly issues just so we don't have to change anything. (Ooooh, this could apply to our churches as well!) But the problem is that God can't use a life that has no room for Him. We let the weeds of hobby take over our time. The overgrowth of the pursuit of fun & pleasure slowly consume everything. We know we should do something, but we're too distracted with the life we've created to even have a strong desire for change, especially if that change might cost us something.

So that's what I'm pondering today. I'm really just envious of the faux grass at Largo Central Park. Can their landscapers just come and do that to my backyard?

Revamping

2011-08-12T17:25:00.001-04:00

I'm revamping this blog. To this point it's been exclusively spiritual thoughts. I don't intend to remove that but I am going to tie it in with my jewelry making, Etsy activity and just what's on my mind at any given point. So, yeah, it's going to be annoying. =p Really it's important to me not to compartmentalize my life so much. So you're gonna get it all... and you're gonna like it!
Let's start things off right. I'm reading Travels in Siberia and I'm kind of obsessed with colanders right now. I made this treasury on Etsy. Below is a picture of my current amore, who is going by the name Renoir today.

God isn't pleased at being ignored.

2011-06-29T11:09:00.000-04:00

I really love how The Message paraphrases read. This morning Romans 8:5-11 just popped off the page.

^5-8Those who think they can do it on their own end up obsessed with measuring their own moral muscle but never get around to exercising it in real life. Those who trust God's action in them find that God's Spirit is in them—living and breathing God! Obsession with self in these matters is a dead end; attention to God leads us out into the open, into a spacious, free life. Focusing on the self is the opposite of focusing on God. Anyone completely absorbed in self ignores God, ends up thinking more about self than God. That person ignores who God is and what he is doing. And God isn't pleased at being ignored.
^9-11But if God himself has taken up residence in your life, you can hardly be thinking more of yourself than of him. Anyone, of course, who has not welcomed this invisible but clearly present God, the Spirit of Christ, won't know what we're talking about. But for you who welcome him, in whom he dwells—even though you still experience all the limitations of sin—you yourself experience life on God's terms. It stands to reason, doesn't it, that if the alive-and-present God who raised Jesus from the dead moves into your life, he'll do the same thing in you that he did in Jesus, bringing you alive to himself? When God lives and breathes in you (and he does, as surely as he did in Jesus), you are delivered from that dead life. With his Spirit living in you, your body will be as alive as Christ's!

Really- no comments necessary!

Decision Time

2011-06-21T13:48:00.001-04:00

Decisions, decisions... the adult life is full of them. Some are small, like what to have for dinner, some are huge like home ownership. I hate making decisions and will often wait until the last moment before I do. Years ago someone sent me this as a guide.

10 key principles for godly decision-making

1. Glorifying God:

Scripture: I Corinthians 6:19-20;10:31; I Thessalonians 2:12
Questions: Will this behavior/practice bring glory to or dishonor God?

2. Loving others:
Scripture: I Corinthians 8:1,9-13;Romans 14:13-21; Galatians5:13.
Question: How will this behavior/practice affect others?
Note: Offending weaker brothers should be distinguished from offending Pharisees (see Matthew 15:12-15). We should not change based on the opinions of pharisees (see: http://thinkpoint.wordpress.com/2007/06/06/are-the-pharisees-still-amoung-us/ )

3. Eliminating excess:
Scripture: I Corinthians 9:24-27;Philippians 3:13; Hebrews 12:1.
Question: Will this hinder me in living an effective Christian life?

4. Attaining excellence:
Scripture: I Corinthians 6:12;10:23; Ephesians 5:16; Philippians 1:9-11.
Questions: Is this activity useful toward my Christian growth? It may not be wrong, but is it really useful and profitable? Is this activity the best use of my time?

5. Avoiding improper relationships:
Scripture: II Corinthians 6:14-18;Psalm 1:1-3;Proverbs 13:20;22:24-25.
Questions: Am I entering into a relationship that could cause me to commit myself to believe or practice something that is unscriptural? Will this association bring wrong influences in my life?

6. Keeping a clear conscience:
Scripture: Romans 14:5,14,22-23; I Corinthians 8:7.
Question: Is what I am doing bothering my conscience in its current condition?

7. Aiming at Christlikeness:
Scripture: Romans 8:28-29;I John 2:6.
Question: Is this consistent with all that I know about Jesus Christ?

8. Maintaining purity:
Scriptures: Matthew 5:27-30; Romans 13:14; Philippians 4:8; I Peter 2:11,16; Galatians 5:13
Questions: Will this activity become a source for sin? Am I allowing myself to be vulnerable to temptation?

9. Prioritizing the Gospel:
Scripture: I Corinthians 9:23
Question: Will this activity hinder or help my effectiveness as a witness for Christ?

10. Listening to leadership:
Scripture: Hebrews 13:17;I Thessalonians 5:12-13.
Questions: Is what I am doing in conflict with the membership or service covenants of my Church? Am I respecting the leadership and seeking guidance from them?

The key to using these principles is personal honesty and humility. God knows our hearts and He knows what is best (I Samuel 16:7; Hebrews 4:13; Philippians1:9-11). Our service for God should be motivated by love for Him as we make every effort to do what pleases God in all things (Matthew 22:37; II Corinthians 5:9-10,14-15). However, we must be careful not to treat our conclusions on nonspecific matters as morally binding upon all who desire to please God.

Proverbs 3:5-7
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and shun evil.”

II Corinthians 5:9-10
“So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ that each one may receive what is due him for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.”

Intentional

2011-06-16T10:55:00.000-04:00

Confession: I am shy out in public. I don't like to make eye contact. I don't want to talk to anyone. I just want to accomplish what I'm out to do and then retreat back to my cozy house. Part of why I'm this way because I like to be efficient and check things off my list. Emotionally, it's because I always feel like people will be put off by my physical appearance.
So what do I do now that I'm back from a trip where we learned to be intentional in all our encounters? I can't get Luke 9:23 ( Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.) out of my head. Part of deny myself has to be that I get over my avoidance of personal interactions when I'm out. There's no way I can take up my cross daily and not also obey the command to go and make disciples. It's a hard truth for me, but with God's help, I've got to break out of what's comfortable and move into what's right.

168 hours a week, which one does God get?

2011-06-12T16:44:00.001-04:00

Kind of discouraging to go on Facebook Sunday afternoon and see the things people did instead of spending time with the church*. I don't think you have to be there every time the doors are open and I don't even think you have to go to a church building or even meet on Sunday. It's just bothersome that people who call themselves Christians put Christ and spiritual things way behind golf, housework, kid's sporting events, boating, camping, shopping, sleep, games on TV, Disney, whatever.... I don't know where I first heard this, but I think about it when I'm not feeling like going to church: God has given us everything, not even holding back His only Son, how can we possibly rationalize not even giving Him a couple hours a week? And Jesus called us to live our whole lives for Him, not even just to assemble together. If you can't manage to do that an hour a week, what are you going to say when He ask you to give an account of your whole life?

*The church defined as a community of believers

Don't Hold It Against Me!

2011-06-02T08:43:00.000-04:00

On a more positive note:

Blessed is the one
   whose transgressions are forgiven,
   whose sins are covered.
Blessed is the one
   whose sin the LORD does not count against them
   and in whose spirit is no deceit.

This is Psalms 32:1-2, after David has confessed the whole mess with Uriah and Bathsheeba. When one goes on a mission minded trip, I think that time away is something that God uses to pinpoint areas in our lives that need fixing. That's certainly true with me. Even being back, some things that I just didn't think a lot about, I've had to analyze. It's been kind of rough, but as I've really just brought things to God and we've gotten on the same page about them, it's been a sweet time of reconnection. These verses this morning just felt like a spring breeze to my heart.

Arrogance is the trademark of the Wicked

2011-05-31T15:29:00.000-04:00

AH... I seem to have broken through the jet lag! I actually feel somewhat normal today. I'm doing normal things anyway: gym, paying bills, cleaning poop out of the carpet, giving Drago a flea bath, etc. Normal is kind of gross at this point in life. Anyway... I'm still trying to decide the direction I want my devotions to go. I did read Psalm 31 today. Two verses stood out to me 17 & 18: Let me not be put to shame, LORD, for I have cried out to you; but let the wicked be put to shame and be silent in the realm of the dead. Let their lying lips be silenced, for with pride and contempt they speak arrogantly against the righteous.

I had the privilege of being in several different type of church services when I was in Asia. Some of the things done were cultural and some are things that I've seen in churches in the US. Some of those things were things that I've rolled my eyes at or thought were "cheesy". Seeing it done by these groups gave me a whole different take on it though. It might not be my preference, but the heart and truth behind it is praising God so why should I even care if it's not the coolest method? This is a real problem in the American church. We are so quick to make fun of people who worship in a different way than us. Clearly God finds that arrogance to be a characteristic of the wicked.

It's kind of apropos that I made that connection this morning. Our church has hired a new music minister. I've met him and his wife once before and like their personalities a lot, but I've never heard how he leads music. Tonight the praise band is officially meeting him and tomorrow night is our first practice. I think I needed to remember that my words toward our ministry (and new minister) have to be the opposite of arrogance, pride and contempt.

Another reason to see the world

2011-05-30T14:45:00.000-04:00

Sometimes you have to leave the US to fully appreciate it. I never noticed how clean and orderly our streets are until I experienced the utter chaos that is India. I didn't totally appreciate the dedication of our police officers until I saw Mexican officers only doing their jobs after money crossed their palms. I didn't consider the oppression of women still happening in a modern world until passing through an Islamic country full of shrouded and disregarded women. I didn't understand true freedom of religion until meeting the Chinese girl who spent a year in prison for her faith in Christ.

I believe the purest form of freedom is only found in Christ, but the freedoms we have in America are pretty amazing too. Those freedoms were fought for and continue to be fought for. Memorial Day is the time when that's called to our attention the most, but really any day is a good day to truly look around and appreciate the sacrifice of those who have died to protect America. God bless the USA and God bless our soldiers.

Yes, I made it back

2011-05-28T09:32:00.000-04:00

I know I should start writing again, even if it is only to tell all about the trip. I feel like I am still processing everything that happened though and I'm not ready to discern what things are just between me and God and what things I want to put out there. Some of that is laziness, some of it is the last twinges of jet lag, and some of it is that I'm not back into the swing of thing.

Some of those things are important things like my devotions. When I left I was deep into Philippians and I actually finished that while I was gone. I felt really drawn to Psalm after that so I read there the rest of the trip. Now I'm not sure where I should be. My life group starts James this Sunday, I think, but I don't want to get too far ahead of the group. I always joke about doing a deep study of all the minor prophets (you'd have to had taken that class at CCC to understand that joke), but maybe coming off this epic journey, one of those books would take on a new significance.

Tomorrow

2011-05-03T09:30:00.001-04:00

This is my last post before I leave for Asia. My emotions are starting to become mixed. I'm so excited to go but every time I look at my son I'm reminded that I'm leaving him for a decent amount of time. He's going to change. At this age, every week there is something new they do and with him, he grows! Still I can't get away from Luke 14:26 "If you want to be my disciple, you must hate everyone else by comparison--your father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters--yes, even your own life. Otherwise, you cannot be my disciple." I regard the separation from my husband and son and how hard it will be for all of us, but it never stood a chance of stopping me from going down this path I've been called to.

Today's prayer request is for the unity of the team. Pray ...

That we would be of one mind, united in prayer and enjoy fellowship with each other
That we would be sensitive to the needs of each other and encouraging each other
That everyone on the team would seek God and be obedient to Him.

(What's all this about? See this blog.)

Friendly Monday?

2011-05-02T13:31:00.000-04:00

(What's all this about? See this blog.)

The title of today's request is "Friends that are seeking". The requests are:

for God brings us friends who are seeking the Truth and are ready to hear the Good News
discernment to know who is seeking and who may just want to know a foreigner
to know how to spend time each day and with whom to spend the time

Last night I was thinking about friendship in general and how easy it is to gravitate towards people who are like yourself. (That grammar seems off.) It's kind of like the whole birds of a feather flock together thing. It's easy that way. While I hate fighting and arguing with people, I also detest when being part of a group requires a person to shed their own identity and become like everyone else in the group. It sound so high school, but I still see it a lot in adult relationships too. This seems especially true in religious groups. I'm not picking on church people- that's just where the majority of my friendships circle around. It can be really daunting to express differing opinions on everything from politics to theology to child raising. But you're not a true friend if you can't politely disagree with each other. You can't grow as a person if your beliefs and thoughts aren't challenged occasionally and who better than a friend who cares about you to talk things through with? I think these thoughts when I meet someone that I'm tempted to avoid because I don't think we'd have anything in common. I hope that my fear of confrontation will instead become curiosity and interest in seeing the world through another person's eyes.

Sunday

2011-05-02T00:25:00.002-04:00

Sunday's request are about cultural adjustment. Here are the requests:

that I would adjust well to all of the differences between the East and the West mentalities
that I would avoid being judgmental
that I'd be able to eat anything that new friends may offer