It's hard to believe that we've been here a week already! We are having such a good time with family and friends, and soaking up the beautiful Santa Barbara weather. As I write, Lily is napping and I can hear the splashing fountain outside; very tranquil. After Lily wakes up we are planning a trip to the Santa Barbara zoo, which will no doubt become a cherished memory. I think Grandpa is the most excited of all. Lily was her bubbly self this morning and helped Grandpa with chores after breakfast. I love seeing them together.
Last night, Joel and I went to see Prince Caspian. We both really enjoyed it. There are many moments in the film that are beautiful and satisfying. Interesting imagery of the Holy Spirit and of baptism (both as judgement and salvation), too. I especially liked the trees and, of course, the scenes with Lucy and Aslan. What a great evening.
I'm currently reading Neil Postman's Amusing Ourselves to Death, which came out 20 years ago but is probably more relevant than when it was first written. One of his main points (borrowed from another author) is that the media is the message. Were it not for the entertainment-influenced (driven?) nightly news, there would be no such thing as the news of the day. And certainly we are well aware of the way that 24-hour news outlets have transformed what is significant to us in major ways. I have no doubt that this year's election is being decided in large part by the media, as is public opinion on many issues. How many of us seek out primary source material and thing critically about the issues? Even the interviews and topics of discussion are crafted for the media; the media has shaped the message. He argues that television is at its best when it merely seeks to entertain, and at its most dangerous when it promotes itself as the distributor of truth. Fascinating points, and I'm only on chapter three. I am fairly certain I read this book about a decade ago, but it's well worth reading again.
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Love One Another
I am reflecting on Jaimeson's sermon from Sunday in conjunction with a book I am reading: Andi Ashworth's Real Love for Real Life. Both are concerned with the topic of showing love toward others, and nurturing others with the type of abiding-in-Christ love that Jesus talks about in John 15. Andi's book is very helpful and encouraging, focusing not only on showing love within the home but offering hospitality and caring for others. She notes that there is no question of "Who is my neighbor," but only "To whom will I be a neighbor?" That's a helpful distinction. That might be as simple as showing kindness to a stranger, to walking step-by-step with a friend through a difficult time or illness. It might be making sure that home is a place where I intentionally show love toward those who live there. It might involve making some extra food in the crock pot and encouraging Joel to bring home some hungry college students or others to whom he is ministering. It is all about looking for opportunities to bring beauty and care into the lives of others.
Sunday's sermon focused on John 15:12-17, and more specifically the point that since we are, as Christians, branches of the vine of Christ, we are to go and bear His fruit in the world. This involves embodying the love of Christ in the lives of others. He both demonstrates this self-emptying love and empowers us to show this love. That's important, because it's not a work we are commanded to try to do on our own. We are to be the conduit of the love of Christ to others. Otherwise we face burnout. We are commanded to love, but as a branch on the vine--extending the nourishing love of Christ to those around us, having that love flow through us.
Jesus says that we are God's friends (beloved) if we obey; being a branch is being the beloved, and vice-versa. We can't divorce our responsibility as branches from our love for Christ. They are one and the same. I remember that Martin Luther once said of faith and works that you cannot separate them any more than you could separate heat and light from fire. The same is true of this concept; if we love, we obey. Obedience is part of our identity. And as we revell in the love of Christ, we are filled with joy in extending this love to others.
My calling as a Christian is, above all, to bear fruit that will last. That may sound rather nebulous, but it is also clear in its implications: I am to abide in Christ, to preach the gospel to myself and hear it in His Word, to pray, to seek Him, and to see the fruit come. Out of this continual flow of grace I minister to others with the grace I am given. This fruit isn't mine; it's His, and that's important.
It's not about running on empty. Sabbath is an inherent part of God's design. That means that during Lily's nap time when I have a few moments of peace, I need to spend time in things that feed that love. That might include a nap and other physical refreshing. It might include a good conversation with a friend. Jaimeson suggested that we grow in this love when we dwell on the Trinity as an eternal fellowship of self-emptying love: there we see the pattern of emptying ourselves and being filled. The amazing thing is that it is Christ Himself who fills us by His Spirit and gives us something to pour out; without Him in the first place, we have nothing to offer.
In conclusion, Jaimeson encouraged us to be intentional about creating locations of grace in which we can missionally love others that they might see Christ. That might mean opening my home for a Bible study, having folks over for dinner, scheduling a play-date with another mom and her kids...there are all kinds of ways to show love toward others. It may be as simple as taking Lily for a nap when she's fussy, knowing that she will enjoy it.
One of the things that Andi makes clear in her book is that hospitality doesn't have to be perfect or complicated to minister to others. I appreciate that. Maybe there are toys on the floor and dinner is very simple; I can still include others in our home life and welcome them. I want my life to be an expression of the love of Christ, where that love is shown in many practical and meaningful ways. And in all of this, I need to keep in mind that it is a simple matter of walking in the good works that the Lord has prepared in advance for me to do: it's not up to me to do every good work on earth that needs doing, but to rest in the Lord and to be faithful as these opportunities to love other come along.
Sunday's sermon focused on John 15:12-17, and more specifically the point that since we are, as Christians, branches of the vine of Christ, we are to go and bear His fruit in the world. This involves embodying the love of Christ in the lives of others. He both demonstrates this self-emptying love and empowers us to show this love. That's important, because it's not a work we are commanded to try to do on our own. We are to be the conduit of the love of Christ to others. Otherwise we face burnout. We are commanded to love, but as a branch on the vine--extending the nourishing love of Christ to those around us, having that love flow through us.
Jesus says that we are God's friends (beloved) if we obey; being a branch is being the beloved, and vice-versa. We can't divorce our responsibility as branches from our love for Christ. They are one and the same. I remember that Martin Luther once said of faith and works that you cannot separate them any more than you could separate heat and light from fire. The same is true of this concept; if we love, we obey. Obedience is part of our identity. And as we revell in the love of Christ, we are filled with joy in extending this love to others.
My calling as a Christian is, above all, to bear fruit that will last. That may sound rather nebulous, but it is also clear in its implications: I am to abide in Christ, to preach the gospel to myself and hear it in His Word, to pray, to seek Him, and to see the fruit come. Out of this continual flow of grace I minister to others with the grace I am given. This fruit isn't mine; it's His, and that's important.
It's not about running on empty. Sabbath is an inherent part of God's design. That means that during Lily's nap time when I have a few moments of peace, I need to spend time in things that feed that love. That might include a nap and other physical refreshing. It might include a good conversation with a friend. Jaimeson suggested that we grow in this love when we dwell on the Trinity as an eternal fellowship of self-emptying love: there we see the pattern of emptying ourselves and being filled. The amazing thing is that it is Christ Himself who fills us by His Spirit and gives us something to pour out; without Him in the first place, we have nothing to offer.
In conclusion, Jaimeson encouraged us to be intentional about creating locations of grace in which we can missionally love others that they might see Christ. That might mean opening my home for a Bible study, having folks over for dinner, scheduling a play-date with another mom and her kids...there are all kinds of ways to show love toward others. It may be as simple as taking Lily for a nap when she's fussy, knowing that she will enjoy it.
One of the things that Andi makes clear in her book is that hospitality doesn't have to be perfect or complicated to minister to others. I appreciate that. Maybe there are toys on the floor and dinner is very simple; I can still include others in our home life and welcome them. I want my life to be an expression of the love of Christ, where that love is shown in many practical and meaningful ways. And in all of this, I need to keep in mind that it is a simple matter of walking in the good works that the Lord has prepared in advance for me to do: it's not up to me to do every good work on earth that needs doing, but to rest in the Lord and to be faithful as these opportunities to love other come along.
Sunday, May 25, 2008
Safely Arrived
We have safely arrived in California, and are very glad to be here. We had some rough moments on the plane with a Lilybug who barely slept the entire day, but now we're here, and in these quiet early moments it is all very worth it. She is still sleeping in the other room, as are my parents; Joel and I were up a little before six, which is nearly nine our time. I love feeling rested and waking up before Lily.
Today we will be off to Christ Presbyterian, and we're looking forward to seeing all the dear folks who have become our friends there. Then we may go to the I Madonnari festival down at the mission and take in the extraordinary chalk paintings. Kristi invited us to dinner with Robbie and Megan, and we may join them. I'm looking forward to time catching up with old friends and relaxing.
Lily was in her element as we sat in the backyard yesterday afternoon. She explored every inch, playing with the toys that mom's friends have loaned her. She banged on the drum and carried it around like it was a purse, explored the grass and plants and grill, knocked on the door, and gave us a running commentary about her adventures. She charmed her grandparents and we had a big ole time.
Today we will be off to Christ Presbyterian, and we're looking forward to seeing all the dear folks who have become our friends there. Then we may go to the I Madonnari festival down at the mission and take in the extraordinary chalk paintings. Kristi invited us to dinner with Robbie and Megan, and we may join them. I'm looking forward to time catching up with old friends and relaxing.
Lily was in her element as we sat in the backyard yesterday afternoon. She explored every inch, playing with the toys that mom's friends have loaned her. She banged on the drum and carried it around like it was a purse, explored the grass and plants and grill, knocked on the door, and gave us a running commentary about her adventures. She charmed her grandparents and we had a big ole time.
Friday, May 23, 2008
Getting ready....Friday
The suitcases have been lugged upstairs, the laundry is churning away in the basement, and we are on the brink of our trip to Santa Barbara. A lot needs to happen in a little time, but we'll get there. I found out that Southwest allows two bags per person plus a small carry-on plus another personal item, so I think we'll be fine. I plan to ditch the usual diaper bag and bring Lily's darling duffel bag on the plane, which will be easy to fill with her food and toys and diapers. I talked with the airline yesterday and there were still seats available, so I'm hoping we can spread out a little and that people will avoid the row with the baby. :) Could happen. That was Liz' suggestion, and I think it's brilliant. I don't know if baby girl will sleep at all on the plane, but hopefully we can keep her entertained for those four hours. The car is generally less stressful, and hopefully will be on this trip, too.
Well, Lily's doing her part by taking a little nap, so I'm going to go and try to get a few things done. California, here we come!
Well, Lily's doing her part by taking a little nap, so I'm going to go and try to get a few things done. California, here we come!
Thursday, May 22, 2008
California Experience Day
Yesterday Joel and I felt like we were back in California, all thanks to the power of chain stores. He had a day off, so we went down to IKEA in Atlanta. We are attempting to re-work some areas of the house and provide more storage. Lily was pretty patient as we wandered the acres of showrooms, munching on piles of Cheerios and other snacks. She ran around quite a bit, too. We stopped for lunch in their cafeteria after sensing a near-meltdown in the Closet Organizer section, and resumed our shopping afterward. Lily and Daddy played in the children's department, where Lily discovered a giant hedgehog chair that was perfect for running up to and jumping on, as well as lots of other things to play with. We finished up our shopping and headed home, with a scheduled stop in the town of Marrietta. We discovered that Marrietta is possibly the best shopping area East of the Mississippi. Why? Trader Joe's AND TCBY. Wooo hooo!!! We stopped and stocked up on some favorites at TJ's, which we have missed since moving from California. And then, frozen yogurt. Mmmmmmm. I suspect that any future trips to Atlanta, IKEA, or anywhere else down the 75 will incorporate a trip to beautiful Marrietta.
Today is a beautiful day, and we are going to work on packing for our trip, straightening up, and maybe putting some of our IKEA finds together. I'm sure the sunshine will also call us outside for a nice walk.
Today is a beautiful day, and we are going to work on packing for our trip, straightening up, and maybe putting some of our IKEA finds together. I'm sure the sunshine will also call us outside for a nice walk.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Monday
I think I can thank the Fitzpatricks for my burst of productivity this evening. Yesterday at church, they gave me a box of lily bulbs, which inspired me to buy a container and potting soil at Walmart today. While I was at it, I bought three large plastic containers for sorting Lily's baby clothes. I have been meaning to take the towering stack of boxes in the basement and consolidate them into a better home. So, this afternoon Lily and I spent a few moments sweeping the back deck (she clearly needs her own broom) and planting the bulbs. As I did, I discovered that each little packet contained two or three bulbs...I need more containers! I think Lily and I will take another little trip to Walmart tomorrow and pick up a couple more. I can't wait to see these lilies in bloom...they sound gorgeous from the descriptions. Some are deep red asiatic lilies, others pink, some yellow and orange. I hope they have a fragrance; I don't think they're day lilies, so they should. I watered them and am hoping for the best, since I feel like I have a black thumb sometimes. I'm going to enlist Mom T to help me raise these, and especially to water them while I'm gone.
After our time outside, Lily had earthy black hands and pollen on her feet, so it was bath time. She was very interested in me running the bath, and played with her whistling hippo and Rainbow Fish book. I love seeing her little curls, and how much she loves splashing. After her bath, Lily had some dinner and played with toys, and then it was bedtime.
With Lily down and Joel at a dinner for the elders and deacons, I decided to fill those plastic containers and get some laundry done. It took about an hour, but I now have all the boxes--eight? nine?--consolidated into three: one for 0-3 month clothes, one 6-9, and one 9 and up. The first is stuffed. I can't believe how many cute outfits my tiny Lily had! As I went through them, I remembered the people who gave them to her, and seeing her in them. A few are outfits I plan to save out...her dress from Joel's graduation that Bonnie gave her, the little green outfit that Kristi gave her, her first Easter dress from Bill and Patricia. I also found the little outfit that Mom bought when we found out we were having Lily. It hung in the walk-in in our condo for all of those months, and I was always so happy to see it! The cool thing is that it's a simple Winnie the Pooh sleeper, and it will be perfect for Jack, too. As I went through the boxes, I gathered an entire box of clothes that could be for a boy or girl. It is fun to think of little Jack wearing these tiny sleepers and onesies. I even found a few things that had been stuck away that Lily can wear right now. So, a very productive evening.
And now, a few moments to relax.
After our time outside, Lily had earthy black hands and pollen on her feet, so it was bath time. She was very interested in me running the bath, and played with her whistling hippo and Rainbow Fish book. I love seeing her little curls, and how much she loves splashing. After her bath, Lily had some dinner and played with toys, and then it was bedtime.
With Lily down and Joel at a dinner for the elders and deacons, I decided to fill those plastic containers and get some laundry done. It took about an hour, but I now have all the boxes--eight? nine?--consolidated into three: one for 0-3 month clothes, one 6-9, and one 9 and up. The first is stuffed. I can't believe how many cute outfits my tiny Lily had! As I went through them, I remembered the people who gave them to her, and seeing her in them. A few are outfits I plan to save out...her dress from Joel's graduation that Bonnie gave her, the little green outfit that Kristi gave her, her first Easter dress from Bill and Patricia. I also found the little outfit that Mom bought when we found out we were having Lily. It hung in the walk-in in our condo for all of those months, and I was always so happy to see it! The cool thing is that it's a simple Winnie the Pooh sleeper, and it will be perfect for Jack, too. As I went through the boxes, I gathered an entire box of clothes that could be for a boy or girl. It is fun to think of little Jack wearing these tiny sleepers and onesies. I even found a few things that had been stuck away that Lily can wear right now. So, a very productive evening.
And now, a few moments to relax.
Sunday, May 18, 2008
Sunday evening
The sun is just beginning to set, the birds are singing, and Lily is sleeping. It is a calm Sunday evening. Joel went to church, but I stayed home to get Lily to bed on time and to get some rest myself. She only got one nap today, so she was ready to go down a little early.
I love how green everything is again. The trees have full green leaves, and all the lawns are lush and beautiful. Our trees outside still have blossoms, but leaves, too, which is very pretty. Sitting in this little den, I am surrounded by windows framing the green trees outside, and it's very relaxing. At least it's relaxing to look out the windows. If I look down, I see toys and the remnants of dinner on Lily's tray, and think of the next chore. Oh well. I think I'll look out the window again and admire Annette's irises across the street.
The Fitzpatricks gave me an entire box of lily bulbs at church today. They have the most glorious white and stargazer lilies, and I had commented on them when we were over there. Jim had planted all he could and had many left over...lucky me! I am looking forward to getting them in the ground tomorrow.
I love how green everything is again. The trees have full green leaves, and all the lawns are lush and beautiful. Our trees outside still have blossoms, but leaves, too, which is very pretty. Sitting in this little den, I am surrounded by windows framing the green trees outside, and it's very relaxing. At least it's relaxing to look out the windows. If I look down, I see toys and the remnants of dinner on Lily's tray, and think of the next chore. Oh well. I think I'll look out the window again and admire Annette's irises across the street.
The Fitzpatricks gave me an entire box of lily bulbs at church today. They have the most glorious white and stargazer lilies, and I had commented on them when we were over there. Jim had planted all he could and had many left over...lucky me! I am looking forward to getting them in the ground tomorrow.
Friday, May 16, 2008
Friday...ahhh
It has been an incredibly busy week, and it is a relief to be at Friday. Last night was my students' piano recital, which involved four young pianists playing two or three songs each...short and sweet. They all did well; I think it was the first recital for each of them. I placed my Mother's Day present--two beautiful candle holders--on either side of the piano, and they set the perfect tone. We had about fifteen guests plus the piano students and us...maybe twenty in all. They loved the evening, and the piano cake was a hit. I am proud of all of them, and will miss teaching them if I don't continue doing it next year after Jack is born.
The night before last was our fabulous rehearsal for tomorrow's conference. It was one of the best-sounding groups I have ever been part of, maybe the very best. I am really enjoying the music and the fellowship of these fellow musicians. I feel very encouraged in using my talents here, and it's all just exciting. I need to make some time today to prepare for tomorrow.
Joel has just about wrapped up his sermon; I'm proud of him for getting it done among all of the other pressures of this week. He sat for a couple of hours this morning, writing longhand at the table as he generally does. Having talked through some of the points with him, I'm looking forward to it. I love Joel's sermons.
Tonight is dinner with some friends from church, and it will be good to see them. And soon, off we go for a relaxing vacation in California. I can hardly wait to get there.
The night before last was our fabulous rehearsal for tomorrow's conference. It was one of the best-sounding groups I have ever been part of, maybe the very best. I am really enjoying the music and the fellowship of these fellow musicians. I feel very encouraged in using my talents here, and it's all just exciting. I need to make some time today to prepare for tomorrow.
Joel has just about wrapped up his sermon; I'm proud of him for getting it done among all of the other pressures of this week. He sat for a couple of hours this morning, writing longhand at the table as he generally does. Having talked through some of the points with him, I'm looking forward to it. I love Joel's sermons.
Tonight is dinner with some friends from church, and it will be good to see them. And soon, off we go for a relaxing vacation in California. I can hardly wait to get there.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Tuesday
It's two, and I would generally be putting Lily down for her afternoon nap. But today is a weird day. Lily slept fitfully last night, lots of crying, and then slept in until 9:30. I think that is the latest she's ever slept in her life. We went for a walk in the neighborhood with Kelly and Emily, and returned home around 11. By 11:45, Lily was very ready for a nap. So, I put her down, and she was out like a light. It is 2:00 and she is still sleeping. In the meantime I had Amanda and her nine-month old Hayes over for a "playdate" lunch, which involved less playing since the tiniest hostess was fast asleep the entire time. They left a little while ago, and my girlie pie is still sleeping.
Maybe I'll take a nap, too.
Maybe I'll take a nap, too.
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Saturday
Today was a good day. The Clothesline show is going well, though we had a smaller turnout today than expected. We're hoping it will pick up tomorrow. Still, I have sold 15 packages of note cards and one unframed painting, and I am feeling encouraged about this whole process. I have gotten a lot of good feedback on my work and on the process, and it inspires me to want to try some new ones. I ran a few packages of cards over to the Bill Shores gallery, too, and have four works on display there. Also encouraging. What would encourage me the most would be to sell off my entire inventory, but that would be nothing short of miraculous.
Lily was taking a little nap when I got home, so I still got to feed her and play with her before bedtime. What a sweetheart. She played with the beads on my shirt and commented on them in her sweet Lily language. She brought me toys to admire and books to read to her. I love watching her play with her doll house and farm, and even had her cuddle me for a moment or two, which is a rare thing for my active little girl. She went down for the night without a peep; later I looked in through the door and she was still awake, sucking her thumb and holding Blankie. She is a dear little soul.
Lily was taking a little nap when I got home, so I still got to feed her and play with her before bedtime. What a sweetheart. She played with the beads on my shirt and commented on them in her sweet Lily language. She brought me toys to admire and books to read to her. I love watching her play with her doll house and farm, and even had her cuddle me for a moment or two, which is a rare thing for my active little girl. She went down for the night without a peep; later I looked in through the door and she was still awake, sucking her thumb and holding Blankie. She is a dear little soul.
Friday, May 9, 2008
Clothesline Day
I just put Lily down for her morning nap and have a few moments to get my thoughts together before heading out into this busy day. The day involves errands centered around Clothesline tonight; more printer ink so I can print more business cards, a swing by the Sessions House to put labels by my paintings and make sure everything is good to go, and a few other things. Lily woke up in a great mood; hopefully she'll get a little more sleep this morning and be ready for a day of socializing. Lily and Joel will join me for the opening reception tonight; then they'll head home and I will catch a ride with one of the other ladies. Tomorrow is a full day, and Sunday will be, too. Hopefully everything will go well!
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Wednesday
I feel like I am losing track of time. We have no Wednesday night services for a couple of months, and that usually provides the mid-point in my week. My mental to-do list helps; today is Wednesday, so I need to get to Michael's to get mats for some of my paintings, then come back and re-frame some of them and clean them all up. Tomorrow I go and hang them at Laura's. I'm inside for the show, in the studio. I'm not sure where that is, but I'm glad to be inside where I know there will be enough wall space to hang my framed pictures.
Mom brought over the newspaper article on Clothesline last night, and I am very happy with it. I expected no more than a mention, since Ann Nichols, who is the writer for the Arts page, had already filled it. They also printed one of Lauren Leutwiler's icons, and it looked good. We'll be in the Weekend section again this weekend, and also in the Pulse. I'm thankful that the phone calls paid off and we have such good press.
Rehearsal went well Monday night, and even though it's at the beginning stages, I'm excited about our upcoming recording project. The conference next weekend will be a good opportunity, too. I love working with other musicians and seeing new music come together; what a privilege!
Mom brought over the newspaper article on Clothesline last night, and I am very happy with it. I expected no more than a mention, since Ann Nichols, who is the writer for the Arts page, had already filled it. They also printed one of Lauren Leutwiler's icons, and it looked good. We'll be in the Weekend section again this weekend, and also in the Pulse. I'm thankful that the phone calls paid off and we have such good press.
Rehearsal went well Monday night, and even though it's at the beginning stages, I'm excited about our upcoming recording project. The conference next weekend will be a good opportunity, too. I love working with other musicians and seeing new music come together; what a privilege!
Monday, May 5, 2008
Cinco de Mayo
Tonight I will celebrate Cinco de Mayo with my Girls' Night Out group, which is made up of a bunch of moms from Lookout. We meet once a month for dinner, and it is a lot of fun. We usually try out a new restaurant, but Ellen volunteered to have us all over for tacos and margaritas, with each of us bringing side dishes. I'm looking forward to the festivities and just wish I could get my hands on a pinata.
After that I head over to Signal Mountain for rehearsal with our worship group. We're working on a recording of about 12 songs, hymns that Eric has re-written. We're also leading worship for a conference next weekend, so we may run through some of that. Eric asked me to listen to a new song and re-write some of it; I really like it, and think I can hear a chorus in there somewhere. It's fun to work with other musicians.
Of course, the biggest commitment this week is to Clothesline. We had a brief mention in the Arts section of the paper yesterday, and the weekend is coming quickly. I need to get all of my frames clean and ready to hang, and go buy ribbon and put all of my note cards in sets. I'm going to double-check my mats, too, and make sure there aren't any that need to be replaced. This is art week on two fronts--my work also goes up at the Bill Shores Gallery today, so when Lily wakes up from her morning nap we'll be heading over there. I think I'll take a stack of Clothesline cards with me, too. It's exciting and busy, and I hope it is all worth it.
Just doing it is worth it.
After that I head over to Signal Mountain for rehearsal with our worship group. We're working on a recording of about 12 songs, hymns that Eric has re-written. We're also leading worship for a conference next weekend, so we may run through some of that. Eric asked me to listen to a new song and re-write some of it; I really like it, and think I can hear a chorus in there somewhere. It's fun to work with other musicians.
Of course, the biggest commitment this week is to Clothesline. We had a brief mention in the Arts section of the paper yesterday, and the weekend is coming quickly. I need to get all of my frames clean and ready to hang, and go buy ribbon and put all of my note cards in sets. I'm going to double-check my mats, too, and make sure there aren't any that need to be replaced. This is art week on two fronts--my work also goes up at the Bill Shores Gallery today, so when Lily wakes up from her morning nap we'll be heading over there. I think I'll take a stack of Clothesline cards with me, too. It's exciting and busy, and I hope it is all worth it.
Just doing it is worth it.
Sunday, May 4, 2008
Sunday
I missed church this morning, allowing Miss Lily about a three hour nap. I'm glad she slept; her fever broke last night and she is finally her cheery little self again. Hopefully the ear infection will clear up soon. I spent some time reading my daily verses that come to my in-box...right now I'm at the end of the Psalms in the OT. So beautiful. I loved Psalm 145 about one generation telling another about the Lord's work and his power:
5 They will speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty,
and I will meditate on your wonderful works.
6 They will tell of the power of your awesome works,
and I will proclaim your great deeds.
7 They will celebrate your abundant goodness
and joyfully sing of your righteousness.
I like how it goes back and forth: one generation speaks of the splendor of the Lord's majesty, and the other meditates on His works. One tells of His power, and the other proclaims His deeds. I wonder which is which--who is the younger generation? Do they tell the story of God's works, or are they the ones moved to consider His majesty and power as a result of hearing about what God did for the older generation? It makes me aware of how essential it is for me to share with Lily, and soon with Jack, what the Lord has done for us.
The other day I overheard Joel telling Lily that the Lord made kittens. I'm not sure what prompted this discussion, but it makes me glad that she will grow up knowing Who to thank for kittens.Saturday, May 3, 2008
Saturday
I have reached the milestone of my third trimester, and realized today that I am seven months along now. I certainly feel like I'm beginning my seventh month, since the floor seems increasingly far away and it's harder to carry Lilybug around. The fact that James is in a cocoon the size of a soccer ball explains some of it. He's very active, kicking and moving around. It's hard to believe that in just twelve weeks or so we'll be holding him and playing with him. Seeing the crib set up in his room makes it all the more real!
Friday, May 2, 2008
Friday
I've been blogging for a few years now, but my blog has always centered around pictures. I thought maybe I'd start blogging a few words.
It's early, and the sun is coming up. Everything outside is green, and I hear the birds, who have been up for hours. I was up earlier than usual, and spent some time reading the Scripture that comes to my in-box. I'll admit, after struggling to find a consistent reading pattern, having a link delivered to me that provides readings for the day has done the trick. I highly recommend it.
This morning I finished off the gospel of John, which is beautiful. There is something about the thought of Jesus on the lake shore in the morning eating fish with his disciples...I can almost see them. His three-fold question to Peter: Do you love me? Giving Peter the opportunity to recant his three-fold denial. The thought of the whole world filled with books had God decided to have every detail of Christ's life recorded...for indeed, it would be a story that began before time and has no ending.
I'm also reading Collin Hansen's Young, Restless, Reformed, in which the author travels the country speaking with a variety of leaders whom he dubs "the New Calvinists." What strikes me particularly is the breadth of folks who are attracted to reformed theology. A lot of them would avoid the term "Calvinist" in the same way others have shunned denominational labels. But they delight in the doctrines of grace and find that their emphasis on theology and mercy and the deep study of Scripture attracts a group turned off by slick evangelicalism. I can appreciate that. It makes me excited about the fall and opportunities that lay before us with college ministry.
It's early, and the sun is coming up. Everything outside is green, and I hear the birds, who have been up for hours. I was up earlier than usual, and spent some time reading the Scripture that comes to my in-box. I'll admit, after struggling to find a consistent reading pattern, having a link delivered to me that provides readings for the day has done the trick. I highly recommend it.
This morning I finished off the gospel of John, which is beautiful. There is something about the thought of Jesus on the lake shore in the morning eating fish with his disciples...I can almost see them. His three-fold question to Peter: Do you love me? Giving Peter the opportunity to recant his three-fold denial. The thought of the whole world filled with books had God decided to have every detail of Christ's life recorded...for indeed, it would be a story that began before time and has no ending.
I'm also reading Collin Hansen's Young, Restless, Reformed, in which the author travels the country speaking with a variety of leaders whom he dubs "the New Calvinists." What strikes me particularly is the breadth of folks who are attracted to reformed theology. A lot of them would avoid the term "Calvinist" in the same way others have shunned denominational labels. But they delight in the doctrines of grace and find that their emphasis on theology and mercy and the deep study of Scripture attracts a group turned off by slick evangelicalism. I can appreciate that. It makes me excited about the fall and opportunities that lay before us with college ministry.
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