I can't believe that a week has passed already and it is time for me to travel home.
My stay at my brother's has been relaxing and exciting. I truly enjoyed my time in southern California and would consider moving here if I felt the Lord leading me to leave NNY. The weather is great and the people here are friendly. There are also many choices for entertainment & food here. The best part is that I have family leaving here and it would be great to hang out with them all the time.
To my friends and family in NNY, don't worry I am coming home and am excited about that too. There are certain aspects about the north country that I truly miss; i.e. my cabin, cats, less traffic, and most of all my friends and family.
I'll be leaving for the airport in about 45 minutes. My brother is getting ready to take some family pictures before I leave. I guess I need to sign off for now.
See you all soon.
Monday, November 27, 2006
Sunday, November 26, 2006
Visiting Vineyard
Today we ventured out to visit a new church - Vineyard Church @ Anaheim, see here.
Wayne informed me when I first got here that there was a Vineyard church near were he lives. I asked if we could go since I've heard a lot about Vineyard churches and wanted to have a Vineyard experience.
I was impressed by the size of the church. The sanctuary had signs indicating north, south, east, or west entrances. We entered through the north entrance and found seats. Worship had already started and it was better than anything that I've heard on any of the Vineyard's CDs; it is true that live worship is better than any recorded worship. The Pastor was laid back, but shared a powerful message about giving and forgiveness. After service, we stopped by the Newcomer's area and picked up our free guest packet, which included a free Vineyard CD and coffee gift certificate at their bookstore cafe. We visited the bookstore and all got coffee. We truly enjoyed sitting in the cafe and sharing stories.
We decided to stop by a Chinese restaurant on the way home for lunch. This was no ordinary Chinese restaurant that one would find in Potsdam. The wait staff brought carts loaded with food to our table and we selected different dishes. Most of the dishes contained food that I couldn't eat. Consequently, I ordered off the menu.
This past summer I remembered ordering sticky rice when I visited a Thai restaurant with Theresa and Blanche this past summer. I asked Irene if this restaurant would have sticky rice and she said yes. We ordered sticky rice. It was not what I had in mind since it was wrapped in some sort of kale leaf. Three waiters came to our table to inquire what exactly I wanted. I said sticky rice with mango. They all agreed that they had that and departed the table. One waiter returned within minutes with a bowl full of rice that looked like it had hot peppers in it. I shook my head and informed him that this is not what I had wanted. The waiter then asked me if it was the sticky rice dessert. I said yes. He departed with the dish he had brought and appeared minutes later with what looked like what I was expecting. One bite, though, told me that it was not. That was ok because Irene liked it and she brought home with us.
This is my last evening in southern California. I travel back to NNY beginning tomorrow night. I'm taking a red eye flight and will arrive in Syracuse Tuesday morning. I look forward to coming home and getting back into the routine of things. I'm sure that my two cats will be happy to see me too.
Wayne informed me when I first got here that there was a Vineyard church near were he lives. I asked if we could go since I've heard a lot about Vineyard churches and wanted to have a Vineyard experience.
I was impressed by the size of the church. The sanctuary had signs indicating north, south, east, or west entrances. We entered through the north entrance and found seats. Worship had already started and it was better than anything that I've heard on any of the Vineyard's CDs; it is true that live worship is better than any recorded worship. The Pastor was laid back, but shared a powerful message about giving and forgiveness. After service, we stopped by the Newcomer's area and picked up our free guest packet, which included a free Vineyard CD and coffee gift certificate at their bookstore cafe. We visited the bookstore and all got coffee. We truly enjoyed sitting in the cafe and sharing stories.
We decided to stop by a Chinese restaurant on the way home for lunch. This was no ordinary Chinese restaurant that one would find in Potsdam. The wait staff brought carts loaded with food to our table and we selected different dishes. Most of the dishes contained food that I couldn't eat. Consequently, I ordered off the menu.
This past summer I remembered ordering sticky rice when I visited a Thai restaurant with Theresa and Blanche this past summer. I asked Irene if this restaurant would have sticky rice and she said yes. We ordered sticky rice. It was not what I had in mind since it was wrapped in some sort of kale leaf. Three waiters came to our table to inquire what exactly I wanted. I said sticky rice with mango. They all agreed that they had that and departed the table. One waiter returned within minutes with a bowl full of rice that looked like it had hot peppers in it. I shook my head and informed him that this is not what I had wanted. The waiter then asked me if it was the sticky rice dessert. I said yes. He departed with the dish he had brought and appeared minutes later with what looked like what I was expecting. One bite, though, told me that it was not. That was ok because Irene liked it and she brought home with us.
This is my last evening in southern California. I travel back to NNY beginning tomorrow night. I'm taking a red eye flight and will arrive in Syracuse Tuesday morning. I look forward to coming home and getting back into the routine of things. I'm sure that my two cats will be happy to see me too.
Ocean Fishing
I got to experience my first ocean fishing adventure today. It was all that I could imagine and then some.
We arrived dockside around 6 AM. First order of business was to pay for the trip, get fishing licenses, and rental tackle. We then boarded the boat and were on our way to Catalinia Island. After about 2 hours, we arrived and fishing lines were in the water.
I dropped my line in and immediately I had a fish on. It was a mackeral and the deck hand informed me to throw it back since it wasn't good for eating. My two nieces, Whitney & Nicole, got their instructions from the deckhand and dropped their lines. Within in minutes they both got fish called bonitas. The deckhand let us all know that bonitas were good for eating and that we could keep them. My brother and I kept on catching mackerals while the girls kept reeling in the bonitas. I finally caught a bonita after about 2 hours of fishing. Wayne also began catching bonitas and we were all pleased with our catch. Later in the day I caught a couple of calico bass that I kept.
All in all, we had a great day on the ocean. We caught most of our limits for bonitas. The deckhands cleaned them for us and we had some for dinner. They were yummy.
We arrived dockside around 6 AM. First order of business was to pay for the trip, get fishing licenses, and rental tackle. We then boarded the boat and were on our way to Catalinia Island. After about 2 hours, we arrived and fishing lines were in the water.
I dropped my line in and immediately I had a fish on. It was a mackeral and the deck hand informed me to throw it back since it wasn't good for eating. My two nieces, Whitney & Nicole, got their instructions from the deckhand and dropped their lines. Within in minutes they both got fish called bonitas. The deckhand let us all know that bonitas were good for eating and that we could keep them. My brother and I kept on catching mackerals while the girls kept reeling in the bonitas. I finally caught a bonita after about 2 hours of fishing. Wayne also began catching bonitas and we were all pleased with our catch. Later in the day I caught a couple of calico bass that I kept.
All in all, we had a great day on the ocean. We caught most of our limits for bonitas. The deckhands cleaned them for us and we had some for dinner. They were yummy.
Where we spent the day - aboard Daveys Locker
Calico Bass
Wayne waitng for a bite, above. A bonita, below.
Friday, November 24, 2006
The Day After Thanksgiving
The ladies of the house decided to venture out for shopping today.
Irene, Nicole, Whitney, and I arose at 6 AM (PST) to hit the shopping trail. We were off at 6:45 AM and arrived at the mall. To our amazement, there were several other hundred shoppers already standing in line at Mervyn's waiting to pay for their merchandise. That didn't deter us and we made our way through the store. Irene, thinking ahead, decided to hop at the end of the line and save us all a spot. The line was so long that all of us had time to shop while we each took turns holding our spot in line. Two and half hours later we were all at the cash register paying for our great bargains. I got a pair of tennis shoes (Irene informs me that this is the proper term for sneakers in the LA area), a black turtleneck, and a couple V-neck T-shirts; all for a whopping $60.00. Being the adventurous shoppers, we all decided to walk around the mall and window shop. We did stop at a coffee shop for what else - coffee. I had pumpkin spice coffee and it was yummy. The mall began to get overcrowded around 11 AM and we decided it was time to head home.
We arrived home and showed my brother our bargains. He too adventured out and went shopping at a local tool shop. He has very nice woodworking shop in his garage and needed tools and hardware to complete a project for Nicole. He didn't have to wait in line as long as us to pay for his merchandise.
I spent the rest of the day relaxing and even got a 1.5 hour nap in. We are currently are watching a movie and looking forward to going to bed early.
Deep sea fishing is on the schedule for tomorrow. We will be getting up at 4:30 AM (PST) since we need to be at the dock by 6 AM. Check back for the fishing report and pictures.
Irene, Nicole, Whitney, and I arose at 6 AM (PST) to hit the shopping trail. We were off at 6:45 AM and arrived at the mall. To our amazement, there were several other hundred shoppers already standing in line at Mervyn's waiting to pay for their merchandise. That didn't deter us and we made our way through the store. Irene, thinking ahead, decided to hop at the end of the line and save us all a spot. The line was so long that all of us had time to shop while we each took turns holding our spot in line. Two and half hours later we were all at the cash register paying for our great bargains. I got a pair of tennis shoes (Irene informs me that this is the proper term for sneakers in the LA area), a black turtleneck, and a couple V-neck T-shirts; all for a whopping $60.00. Being the adventurous shoppers, we all decided to walk around the mall and window shop. We did stop at a coffee shop for what else - coffee. I had pumpkin spice coffee and it was yummy. The mall began to get overcrowded around 11 AM and we decided it was time to head home.
We arrived home and showed my brother our bargains. He too adventured out and went shopping at a local tool shop. He has very nice woodworking shop in his garage and needed tools and hardware to complete a project for Nicole. He didn't have to wait in line as long as us to pay for his merchandise.
I spent the rest of the day relaxing and even got a 1.5 hour nap in. We are currently are watching a movie and looking forward to going to bed early.
Deep sea fishing is on the schedule for tomorrow. We will be getting up at 4:30 AM (PST) since we need to be at the dock by 6 AM. Check back for the fishing report and pictures.
Thursday, November 23, 2006
Thanksgiving Morning
I began to think of all the things that I'm thankful for as I arose this morning. My thankful thoughts continued to flood my mind as I went for my morning walk and did my stretching exercises. I've concluded that I have a lot to be thankful for.
God has blessed me in so many ways. My list of thanksgiving to the Lord is endless. The neat thing is that my list will continue to grow as I continue following the Lord. This is how the Lord designed it to be - to continue pouring out His blessings upon His children. I'm so thankful that Jesus died and rose again so that I can know God through Jesus and enjoy His bountiful blessings in my life. Thank you Lord!!
Another thing on my thanksgiving list, is the fact that I get to spend the day with my brother and his family. This is first time that I've seen him and his wife in about three years. I also have met two of my neices for the first time and will spend the day with them too.
I'm also thankful for the beautiful weather in southern California. The sun in Northern New York has been elusive this fall and I'm truly enjoying the sun and warm weather here in California. I think that this is the first Thanksgiving that I'm wearing shorts and short sleeve shirt. It is nice.
I wish all my family and friends back home a warm and happy Thanksgiving. I encourage you all to think about what you are thankful for this day and lift your praise of thanksgiving up to the Lord.
God has blessed me in so many ways. My list of thanksgiving to the Lord is endless. The neat thing is that my list will continue to grow as I continue following the Lord. This is how the Lord designed it to be - to continue pouring out His blessings upon His children. I'm so thankful that Jesus died and rose again so that I can know God through Jesus and enjoy His bountiful blessings in my life. Thank you Lord!!
Another thing on my thanksgiving list, is the fact that I get to spend the day with my brother and his family. This is first time that I've seen him and his wife in about three years. I also have met two of my neices for the first time and will spend the day with them too.
I'm also thankful for the beautiful weather in southern California. The sun in Northern New York has been elusive this fall and I'm truly enjoying the sun and warm weather here in California. I think that this is the first Thanksgiving that I'm wearing shorts and short sleeve shirt. It is nice.
I wish all my family and friends back home a warm and happy Thanksgiving. I encourage you all to think about what you are thankful for this day and lift your praise of thanksgiving up to the Lord.
Visit to Huntington
My sister-in-law, Irene, informed me that we were scheduled to have afternoon tea at the Huntington Tea Room, which is located at the Huntington Library. My initial thought was great, but I found it strange that a tea room was located at a library.
As I walked through the main gate, an attendant handed me a brochure and I found myself admist a beautiful botanical garden. I quickly began looking at the brochure and learned that the Huntington Library is a private, nonprofit collections-based research and educational institution. The Huntington consists of a library, museums with art collections, and botanical gardens. The Huntington was established in 1919 by Henry Edwards Huntington, who was born in Oneonta, NY. Information in the brochure stated that:
My two neices, Whitney & Nicole
As I walked through the main gate, an attendant handed me a brochure and I found myself admist a beautiful botanical garden. I quickly began looking at the brochure and learned that the Huntington Library is a private, nonprofit collections-based research and educational institution. The Huntington consists of a library, museums with art collections, and botanical gardens. The Huntington was established in 1919 by Henry Edwards Huntington, who was born in Oneonta, NY. Information in the brochure stated that:
"Huntington was a man of vision -with a special interest in books, arts, and gardens. Durning his lifetime, he amassed the core of one of the finest research libraries in the world, established a splendid art collection, and created an array of botanical gardens with plants from a geographic range spanning the globe."
I must say that I was pleasantly surprised when I walked through the main gate of the Huntington Library. Irene and I headed to the cafe for lunch and then we spent about an hour walking through the botanical gardens. We also visited one of the museums. Many of you know that I don't like museums, but this one contained the Gutenberg Bible; something that I truly enjoyed seeing.
Irene and I met my brother and two neices at the tea room for our afternoon tea appointment. We enjoyed their special tea, Holiday Season, and all the snacks; there were even healthy snacks that I could eat with lots of veggies.
We paid a visit to the gift shop prior to leaving. We all bought souvenirs and left the feeling very satisfied with our visit.
Here are some pictures of our visit.
My two neices, Whitney & Nicole
Me enjoying my snacks & tea.
A flower in one of the gardens.
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
Window Washers
I had a two hour lay over in Chicago yesterday. It was during this time that I noticed a four man team of window washers doing their job. Two of them were on the inside and two of them were on the outside. The guys on the outside had to use extenders to wash the windows since the windows were above their heads.
Two things that I noticed about the window washers. First, they worked well together as a team since the inside guys guided the outside guys where the streaks were after their first wash. Although they were only washing windows, they took their job very seriously, did it with excellence, and made sure the windows were sparkling clean when finished.
I couldn't help to think about the scripture that tells us to do our work as to unto the Lord. I don't know if any of the window washers were Christians, but they certainly seemed to be doing their work as to unto the Lord.
The four window washers will never know that I was watching them, but I learned a valuable lesson from them: no matter how unimportant the work may seem to be I need to do it as unto the Lord.
Two things that I noticed about the window washers. First, they worked well together as a team since the inside guys guided the outside guys where the streaks were after their first wash. Although they were only washing windows, they took their job very seriously, did it with excellence, and made sure the windows were sparkling clean when finished.
I couldn't help to think about the scripture that tells us to do our work as to unto the Lord. I don't know if any of the window washers were Christians, but they certainly seemed to be doing their work as to unto the Lord.
The four window washers will never know that I was watching them, but I learned a valuable lesson from them: no matter how unimportant the work may seem to be I need to do it as unto the Lord.
Monday, November 20, 2006
Arrival Downey
I arrived safely at Downey, CA. My flights were all on time. Actually, my flight departed Chicago about 15 minutes early; the plane left the gate, went right to the runway, and we were off. I fly through Chicago all the time and this was the fastest that I've ever flew out of there.
The plane arrived 40 minutes early into LA. I called my brother to let him know that I had arrived and he was amazed. I met my brother outside the baggage claim area. He picked me up in his bright yellow Ford 150 4x4 pickup truck. I couldn't miss it since it looked like a school bus. I'm not sure why he needs a 4x4 in southern California; it was 91 when I arrived. Tomorrow is supposed to be in the mid 70's.
I was also able to have breakfast with my dad this morning. We met at the Cracker Barrel in Watertown. My dad will be leaving for Flordia next week and this was the last chance for me to see him before he departs. We had a good visit.
Plans for tomorrow include playing golf and enjoying the weather. Later in the week we may go deep sea fishing. This is something that I've always wanted to do.
That is all for now.
The plane arrived 40 minutes early into LA. I called my brother to let him know that I had arrived and he was amazed. I met my brother outside the baggage claim area. He picked me up in his bright yellow Ford 150 4x4 pickup truck. I couldn't miss it since it looked like a school bus. I'm not sure why he needs a 4x4 in southern California; it was 91 when I arrived. Tomorrow is supposed to be in the mid 70's.
I was also able to have breakfast with my dad this morning. We met at the Cracker Barrel in Watertown. My dad will be leaving for Flordia next week and this was the last chance for me to see him before he departs. We had a good visit.
Plans for tomorrow include playing golf and enjoying the weather. Later in the week we may go deep sea fishing. This is something that I've always wanted to do.
That is all for now.
Sunday, November 19, 2006
Going West
I'm traveling tomorrow to Downey, CA. I am leaving the Hybrid in NY and flying to Downey since California is too far to drive. Downey is 13 miles south of Los Angeles.
I'll be visiting my oldest brother, Wayne, his wife, Irene, and Irene's mom, Eunice. I'll also get to meet two of my neices for the first time too.
What do I plan on doing while in Downey? Golf, pay a visit to Disney Land, and be a beach bum. Sounds fun, right? I can't wait!!
I'll be gone for 8 days. I will be posting to my blog during my time in Downey; so check back to find out how much fun I'm having.
I'll be visiting my oldest brother, Wayne, his wife, Irene, and Irene's mom, Eunice. I'll also get to meet two of my neices for the first time too.
What do I plan on doing while in Downey? Golf, pay a visit to Disney Land, and be a beach bum. Sounds fun, right? I can't wait!!
I'll be gone for 8 days. I will be posting to my blog during my time in Downey; so check back to find out how much fun I'm having.
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Speedometer Shock
I had just pulled out of my driveway and began my long drive to work. Down the road I traveled noticing the morning rainshower that seems to be the norm these days. I was feeling pretty relaxed as I continued down the road and then I noticed the speed on my speedometer: 89.
I was shocked and began to think how can I be going 89 when I had just pulled out of my driveway; I also didn't feel like I was traveling 89 on the highway. The information on the speedometer didn't match what I was sensing to be true. My internal warning lights began flashing to me that something was wrong. I then looked at the units after the speed and was greatly relieved to discover that they were Km/hour. Switching back to MPH showed that I was traveling at 52.
I was shocked and began to think how can I be going 89 when I had just pulled out of my driveway; I also didn't feel like I was traveling 89 on the highway. The information on the speedometer didn't match what I was sensing to be true. My internal warning lights began flashing to me that something was wrong. I then looked at the units after the speed and was greatly relieved to discover that they were Km/hour. Switching back to MPH showed that I was traveling at 52.
Lesson learned: check your units on your speedometer when in doubt of your speed.
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
Whirlwind
Have you ever felt like your life was riding on a whirlwind? This is how I've been feeling since last week.
I can't believe that a week has passed since I had the photo shoot at my house. I haven't really had time to process it all. I can only say "Wow!!" I sometimes pinch myself to see if it is true...I'm going to appear in a National Magazine.
I am truly humbled and honored to have this opportunity to share my story about my weight loss journey. It is certainly a journey and one that is not over. Although I don't need to loose anymore weight, I am on a journey to maintain my goal weight that I reached in the middle of May. I am 42 pounds lighter than I was in January 2006 and I intend to stay at my goal weight.
Since the photo shoot, I've been on the local radio station that broadcasts from the Reservation and traveled to Rochester. The radio station broadcast was a special live promotion that we did at the transfer station on Saturday. After this, I hopped in my car and headed south to spend Saturday night with friends. On Sunday afternoon, I continued my journey to Rochester where I crashed at my luxurious room at the Radisson; it was nice getting off the whirlwind for few hours.
The reason I traveled to Rochester was to attend training that taught me how to work with people. I sure did learn a lot. After a quick trip to Wegmans (I wish the North Country had a Wegmans) I headed north and arrived at friends in time to watch the Giants beat up on the Cowboys on Monday night football; I'm a die hard Giant fan in case you didn't know.
I'm back home now and getting back into my routine. Speaking of routine, I need to sign off and head off to the financial class that I'm taking at church.
See you later.
I can't believe that a week has passed since I had the photo shoot at my house. I haven't really had time to process it all. I can only say "Wow!!" I sometimes pinch myself to see if it is true...I'm going to appear in a National Magazine.
I am truly humbled and honored to have this opportunity to share my story about my weight loss journey. It is certainly a journey and one that is not over. Although I don't need to loose anymore weight, I am on a journey to maintain my goal weight that I reached in the middle of May. I am 42 pounds lighter than I was in January 2006 and I intend to stay at my goal weight.
Since the photo shoot, I've been on the local radio station that broadcasts from the Reservation and traveled to Rochester. The radio station broadcast was a special live promotion that we did at the transfer station on Saturday. After this, I hopped in my car and headed south to spend Saturday night with friends. On Sunday afternoon, I continued my journey to Rochester where I crashed at my luxurious room at the Radisson; it was nice getting off the whirlwind for few hours.
The reason I traveled to Rochester was to attend training that taught me how to work with people. I sure did learn a lot. After a quick trip to Wegmans (I wish the North Country had a Wegmans) I headed north and arrived at friends in time to watch the Giants beat up on the Cowboys on Monday night football; I'm a die hard Giant fan in case you didn't know.
I'm back home now and getting back into my routine. Speaking of routine, I need to sign off and head off to the financial class that I'm taking at church.
See you later.
Thursday, October 19, 2006
Before & After
Wow!! The change in my appearance didn't really hit me until I received some of the photos from the photo shoot. I have much to share about the photo shoot, but I've been on the run ever since yesterday. I'm hoping to post sometime on Sunday since I'll be traveling again; I find that I have more time to write when I'm traveling. So until then, enjoy the pictures.
The picture at the bottom was taken Christmas Eve 2005. This was a week before I started eating according to the principles in the Fire Up Your Metabolism bo
ok.
Friday, October 13, 2006
Photo Shoot - Woman's World Magazine
The photo editor from Woman's World Magazine contacted me today. She informed me that my story has been selected to appear in the December 19 issue. Please see my post from 10/6 to learn more about my interview with the magazine.
After a few phone calls back and forth, the photo editor arranged for one of their photograpers to come my house on Wednesday, October 18 at 4pm. They will shoot photos of me in two outfits of my choosing; it is a good thing that I'm going shopping for winter clothing tomorrow since I don't have any that fit me. At the magazine's suggestion, I have made arrangements to get my hair styled and to have makeup put on. Carina will be styling my hair and Connie will be applying make up.
They will be taking several full length shots of me and take pictures of me in my kitchen preparing my favorite snacks, which are a peanut sandwhich on whole wheat bread and yogurt with cheerios and fruit.
I never dreamed that I would be appearing in a national magazine when I started my weight loss journey in January. I am so blessed and I thank the Lord for the opportunity of sharing my story through a national magazine.
After a few phone calls back and forth, the photo editor arranged for one of their photograpers to come my house on Wednesday, October 18 at 4pm. They will shoot photos of me in two outfits of my choosing; it is a good thing that I'm going shopping for winter clothing tomorrow since I don't have any that fit me. At the magazine's suggestion, I have made arrangements to get my hair styled and to have makeup put on. Carina will be styling my hair and Connie will be applying make up.
They will be taking several full length shots of me and take pictures of me in my kitchen preparing my favorite snacks, which are a peanut sandwhich on whole wheat bread and yogurt with cheerios and fruit.
I never dreamed that I would be appearing in a national magazine when I started my weight loss journey in January. I am so blessed and I thank the Lord for the opportunity of sharing my story through a national magazine.
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
Dust Bunnies
As I was changing earrings this morning, one of the clasps slipped out my hand and went behind my dresser. I decided that I would hunt for the clasp when got home from work since I was pressed for time.
This afternoon I arrived home and decided to look for my lost clasp. The first thing I did was move the dresser away from the wall. "Ooh gush! Look at all those dust bunnies and other little debris behind my dresser" I said to myself. I didn't let the mess deter me from my task at hand - finding my lost clasp. After looking for a couple of minutes with no success, I decided to get a flash light and the vacuum cleaner. I shined the light behind the dresser and still didn't find the clasp. I then decided to move the dresser farther away from the wall and this is when I saw the clasp. It was underneath one of the legs of the dresser. I then made all those little dust bunnies disappear through the use of the vacuum cleaner. The carpet was cleaned and I promptly put the dresser back into its place.
All the time I was looking for my clasp, I begin to think about how those little dust bunnies hid behind my dresser until I moved the dresser. Up to this point, I had no idea that they were there; they remained hidden until I had a purpose to move the dresser.
The Lord began to show me that those little secret dust bunnies are similar to things that we keep hidden inside of us. Sometimes we aren't even aware that there are hidden dust bunnies that God wants to expose and shine His light on. The hidden dust bunnies are no surprise to God, though, since He knows and sees everything.
God patiently waits for us to invite Him to move our dressers so that the dust bunnies are exposed. He can then shine His light, apply His cleaner, and set us free from those hidden dust bunnies.
This afternoon I arrived home and decided to look for my lost clasp. The first thing I did was move the dresser away from the wall. "Ooh gush! Look at all those dust bunnies and other little debris behind my dresser" I said to myself. I didn't let the mess deter me from my task at hand - finding my lost clasp. After looking for a couple of minutes with no success, I decided to get a flash light and the vacuum cleaner. I shined the light behind the dresser and still didn't find the clasp. I then decided to move the dresser farther away from the wall and this is when I saw the clasp. It was underneath one of the legs of the dresser. I then made all those little dust bunnies disappear through the use of the vacuum cleaner. The carpet was cleaned and I promptly put the dresser back into its place.
All the time I was looking for my clasp, I begin to think about how those little dust bunnies hid behind my dresser until I moved the dresser. Up to this point, I had no idea that they were there; they remained hidden until I had a purpose to move the dresser.
The Lord began to show me that those little secret dust bunnies are similar to things that we keep hidden inside of us. Sometimes we aren't even aware that there are hidden dust bunnies that God wants to expose and shine His light on. The hidden dust bunnies are no surprise to God, though, since He knows and sees everything.
God patiently waits for us to invite Him to move our dressers so that the dust bunnies are exposed. He can then shine His light, apply His cleaner, and set us free from those hidden dust bunnies.
Friday, October 06, 2006
Interview With Woman's World Magazine
I received an email yesterday from the nutrition twins inviting me to be interviewed by Woman's World Magazine; see here. One of the editors of the magazine contacted the nutrition twins and wanted names of ladies who were successful in following their Fire Up Metabolism eating plan. The nutrition twins submitted four names to them and I was one of them.
One of the writers for the magazine interviewed me today via the telephone. They were particularly interested in knowing how snacking in between meals helped me to loose weight. My answer: snacking gives me freedom to eat more food without feeling guilty and I don't get hungry in between meals. I realize now that snacking is a normal part of my daily routine and I rather enjoy it.
I'm not sure if they will publish my article. I'll keep you posted if they do and let you know what issue it is in.
Speaking of snacking...it is time for me to have my evening snack. Off I go to enjoy my yogurt, cheerios, and fruit. Chow!
One of the writers for the magazine interviewed me today via the telephone. They were particularly interested in knowing how snacking in between meals helped me to loose weight. My answer: snacking gives me freedom to eat more food without feeling guilty and I don't get hungry in between meals. I realize now that snacking is a normal part of my daily routine and I rather enjoy it.
I'm not sure if they will publish my article. I'll keep you posted if they do and let you know what issue it is in.
Speaking of snacking...it is time for me to have my evening snack. Off I go to enjoy my yogurt, cheerios, and fruit. Chow!
Saturday, September 30, 2006
Laying Behind the Old & Receiving the New
2 Cor 5:17
17 What this means is that those who become Christians become new persons. They are not the same anymore, for the old life is gone. A new life has begun!
NLT
This scripture tells me that I am a new person, not the same anymore, for my old life (old feelings, thoughts, & identity) is gone. I have a new life and identity!
Wouldn’t it be great if I could freely accept my new life & identity and have the old just disappear? Often times, though, there is action required on my part to lay behind the old and receive the new.
I’ve been in a season where God has allowed me to come face-to-face with some old feelings and thoughts about myself. I’ve also seen how much of my identity has been based on these old feelings and thoughts. Of course, this old identity doesn’t match up with what God’s Word says about who I am in Christ.
A couple years ago I taught women’s Sunday school class based on Neil Anderson’s book titled “Victory Over Darkness.” Chapter 4, “Something Old, Something New” describes that I need to believe that my new identity is in the life of Christ and commit myself to grow accordingly. I need to believe this regardless of how I feel or think about myself.
In preparing to teach Chapter 4, God gave me a ceremony to have the ladies perform in class. The ceremony, which I called “Discarding the Old & Putting on the New Celebration”, involved ladies writing on 3x5 index cards old man feelings, thoughts, or other old man stuff that they wanted to get rid of. The ladies were then invited to come forward, rip the cards up, and throw them in a box, which became known as the old man coffin box. The ladies had the option of sharing with the class what they were tossing away, or privately sharing with me, or not sharing at all. After they ripped and tossed the cards away, they received a love shawl and were prayed for.
About a month ago, I felt the Lord calling me to go through the Discarding the Old & Putting on the New Celebration since I have never done this. I invited four of my closest friends to my house last week to be a part of the celebration. I asked one of them to make me a love shawl and another one to lead the celebration.
As I prepared for the celebration, God revealed specific old man feelings and thoughts that I was to share and toss away. These were things in my life that remained in the dark until God shined His light on them, exposed them, and now it was time for me to lay them down.
My friends all arrived and it was time to begin the celebration. Pound! Pound! My heart began racing as I began to open my mouth and share. I shared the most difficult thing first, ripped up the paper, and tossed it into the old man coffin box. I began to move onto the next, when the prayer leader asked if we could stop and have them all pray for me. I said “yes”. They all came over to me, laid hands on me, and prayed for me. Tears came pouring out as they prayed. Half a box of tissues later we moved onto the next thing. I felt a sense of liberation with each thing that I shared, ripped up, and tossed. There were no more index cards in my hands. Everything that the Lord led me to share I had shared.
My friend who made me the love shawl came over and wrapped me in it. They all laid hands on me again and prayed a blessing over me. After prayer, one of my other friends indicated that she had something for me. She went and got another love shawl that she had made. She explained that she was led by the Lord to make me one too. She said that this love shawl symbolizes that I’m washed white as snow by the blood of the Lamb and that I’m God’s girl.
The last thing we did as part of the celebration was to place everything that I ripped up in a paper bag and burnt it. As I watched the torn pieces of my old life burning in front of me, I felt a sense of liberation and that it was time to accept and walk in my new life in Christ. After all the pieces were burnt, I stomped on the ashes and said to myself “it is finished, time to walk in the new!”
It has been a little over a week since I went through the Discarding the Old & Putting on the New Celebration. I can honestly say that I feel like a new creation in Christ, I’ve come to know deep in my heart that God truly loves me unconditionally and that He will never leave nor forsake me, and that I’m always God’s girl. I comfortable with being me now and I don’t have to hide behind a mask and pretend to be someone else. I am truly walking in my new life!
To my four friends that participated in the celebration, thank you for being there for me, loving me, and listening to me. I truly love you all and may we continue to grow together in Christ.
17 What this means is that those who become Christians become new persons. They are not the same anymore, for the old life is gone. A new life has begun!
NLT
This scripture tells me that I am a new person, not the same anymore, for my old life (old feelings, thoughts, & identity) is gone. I have a new life and identity!
Wouldn’t it be great if I could freely accept my new life & identity and have the old just disappear? Often times, though, there is action required on my part to lay behind the old and receive the new.
I’ve been in a season where God has allowed me to come face-to-face with some old feelings and thoughts about myself. I’ve also seen how much of my identity has been based on these old feelings and thoughts. Of course, this old identity doesn’t match up with what God’s Word says about who I am in Christ.
A couple years ago I taught women’s Sunday school class based on Neil Anderson’s book titled “Victory Over Darkness.” Chapter 4, “Something Old, Something New” describes that I need to believe that my new identity is in the life of Christ and commit myself to grow accordingly. I need to believe this regardless of how I feel or think about myself.
In preparing to teach Chapter 4, God gave me a ceremony to have the ladies perform in class. The ceremony, which I called “Discarding the Old & Putting on the New Celebration”, involved ladies writing on 3x5 index cards old man feelings, thoughts, or other old man stuff that they wanted to get rid of. The ladies were then invited to come forward, rip the cards up, and throw them in a box, which became known as the old man coffin box. The ladies had the option of sharing with the class what they were tossing away, or privately sharing with me, or not sharing at all. After they ripped and tossed the cards away, they received a love shawl and were prayed for.
About a month ago, I felt the Lord calling me to go through the Discarding the Old & Putting on the New Celebration since I have never done this. I invited four of my closest friends to my house last week to be a part of the celebration. I asked one of them to make me a love shawl and another one to lead the celebration.
As I prepared for the celebration, God revealed specific old man feelings and thoughts that I was to share and toss away. These were things in my life that remained in the dark until God shined His light on them, exposed them, and now it was time for me to lay them down.
My friends all arrived and it was time to begin the celebration. Pound! Pound! My heart began racing as I began to open my mouth and share. I shared the most difficult thing first, ripped up the paper, and tossed it into the old man coffin box. I began to move onto the next, when the prayer leader asked if we could stop and have them all pray for me. I said “yes”. They all came over to me, laid hands on me, and prayed for me. Tears came pouring out as they prayed. Half a box of tissues later we moved onto the next thing. I felt a sense of liberation with each thing that I shared, ripped up, and tossed. There were no more index cards in my hands. Everything that the Lord led me to share I had shared.
My friend who made me the love shawl came over and wrapped me in it. They all laid hands on me again and prayed a blessing over me. After prayer, one of my other friends indicated that she had something for me. She went and got another love shawl that she had made. She explained that she was led by the Lord to make me one too. She said that this love shawl symbolizes that I’m washed white as snow by the blood of the Lamb and that I’m God’s girl.
The last thing we did as part of the celebration was to place everything that I ripped up in a paper bag and burnt it. As I watched the torn pieces of my old life burning in front of me, I felt a sense of liberation and that it was time to accept and walk in my new life in Christ. After all the pieces were burnt, I stomped on the ashes and said to myself “it is finished, time to walk in the new!”
It has been a little over a week since I went through the Discarding the Old & Putting on the New Celebration. I can honestly say that I feel like a new creation in Christ, I’ve come to know deep in my heart that God truly loves me unconditionally and that He will never leave nor forsake me, and that I’m always God’s girl. I comfortable with being me now and I don’t have to hide behind a mask and pretend to be someone else. I am truly walking in my new life!
To my four friends that participated in the celebration, thank you for being there for me, loving me, and listening to me. I truly love you all and may we continue to grow together in Christ.
Friday, September 29, 2006
Sunday, September 17, 2006
A Yielded Heart
God has me in a season where I'm truly learning what it means to have a yielded a heart. Here are some of the things that I've learned.
A yielded heart:- is soft and supple;
- can be shaped and molded into God's perfect will for my life;
- surrenders to the Lord and is obedient no matter how I feel;
- goes through trials & tribulations with God to come out victorious on the other side;
- leads to more freedom in Christ;
- receives and accepts God's forgiveness and unconditional love; and
- pleases God.
I desire to always yield my heart to the Lord since it is a wonderful place to be; a place where I sit at the feet of Jesus yielding to His perfect will for my life.
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
Trash Tidbits
The articles below appeared in my recent WasteAge magazine. I thought that you all would find them interesting.
Drinking on the Job
Aug 1, 2006 12:00 PMBy Jennifer Grzeskowiak
If you've ever been to a fraternity party, you know people will drink some pretty unusual substances on a dare. In a more serious context, a landfill manager in Southwold Township, Ontario, recently gulped down a glass of treated leachate to prove that the Green Lane landfill isn't harmful to the environment.
Apparently, it wasn't the first time he had drank the concoction, which he described as slightly sweet and not completely unpleasant. This time, however, the manager imbibed after the government approved a 10-million-ton landfill expansion, creating concern that Toronto might begin hauling its waste to the site. And you thought chugging a gallon of milk in an hour was weird.
Source: London (Ontario) Free Press
Davy Jones' Garbage Truck
Aug 1, 2006 12:00 PMBy Jennifer Grzeskowiak
As the old saying goes, “Women need men like fish need bicycles.” Apparently, however, fish do have a use for old garbage trucks. In June, Thailand submerged the bodies and chassis of 189 trucks off of the southern coast to create artificial reefs and attract more fish. In their former life, the trucks, which were cleaned and disinfected, were used to pick up waste in Bangkok.
As part of the queen's project to help marine life and fishermen, the government previously has dumped trains and drainage pipes. Bicycles-built-for-two have yet to make the list of items.
Source: The Bangkok Post
Drinking on the Job
Aug 1, 2006 12:00 PMBy Jennifer Grzeskowiak
If you've ever been to a fraternity party, you know people will drink some pretty unusual substances on a dare. In a more serious context, a landfill manager in Southwold Township, Ontario, recently gulped down a glass of treated leachate to prove that the Green Lane landfill isn't harmful to the environment.
Apparently, it wasn't the first time he had drank the concoction, which he described as slightly sweet and not completely unpleasant. This time, however, the manager imbibed after the government approved a 10-million-ton landfill expansion, creating concern that Toronto might begin hauling its waste to the site. And you thought chugging a gallon of milk in an hour was weird.
Source: London (Ontario) Free Press
Davy Jones' Garbage Truck
Aug 1, 2006 12:00 PMBy Jennifer Grzeskowiak
As the old saying goes, “Women need men like fish need bicycles.” Apparently, however, fish do have a use for old garbage trucks. In June, Thailand submerged the bodies and chassis of 189 trucks off of the southern coast to create artificial reefs and attract more fish. In their former life, the trucks, which were cleaned and disinfected, were used to pick up waste in Bangkok.
As part of the queen's project to help marine life and fishermen, the government previously has dumped trains and drainage pipes. Bicycles-built-for-two have yet to make the list of items.
Source: The Bangkok Post
Monday, September 04, 2006
Fishing Report
I picked up my fishing buddy, Michael, bright and early on Thursday morning. Our destination was Clayton, NY to spend the day fishing with my dad.
Our first stop was at the Sunoco gas station in Potsdam; I needed my cup of Gulliver's hazelnut coffee and Michael needed a bottle of water. Next stop was Dunkin Donuts. It is a tradition that I bring donuts for the trip when I go fishing with dad. We got 6 donuts. I let Michael pick out three of them and said that he could have some, but that he would have to wait until we got on the boat.
On the way to Clayton, Michael and I had a conversation about castles. I shared with him the story about Boldt Castle. I knew that we would arrive a few minutes late, but I thought it would be neat for Michael to actually see the castle. There is a spot in Alexandria Bay, which is on the way to Clayton, that you can see Boldt Castle. We made the side trip and Michael with impressed with it. I also shared with Michael that the Thousand Island Bridge Authority owns Boldt Castle and that I used to paint the bridge during the summers when I college student. On rainy days, we would go to Boldt Castle and paint the steel rafters in the attic. Another interesting point: one of the muskies that was caught on my father's boat is displayed in the billards room at the castle.
We arrived at the marina and my dad greeted us. After quick trips to the bathroom, we all jumped in the boat and my dad skillfully maneuvered the boat out of the boat slip. I'm truly amazed how my dad maneuvers the boat in & out of his slip since it located in the corner the building and there are always boats behind him that he has to avoid hitting.
"Time to open the donut box", I said to Michael. We opened the box and to our amazement one donut was missing. I asked Michael if he had already had one and he said no. Strange I thought since I know we got six donuts and the white frosting to the one missing was on the box. Michael grabbed a donut while my dad and I passed on having any. My dad did have two later in the day and the missing donut remained a mystery.
We got to our first fishing spot, baited our hooks, and dropped our lines in the water. My dad provided Michael with instructions of how to drop his line down and Michael caught on quickly. We were there for about 15 minutes and didn't get any bites. "Time to move, why stay in a spot where there is no action," said dad.
We were on the move to waters located in Canada when dad decided to try one more spot on the US side of the St. Lawrence River. We had our lines down for about 5 minutes when Michael informed me that he thought he had bottom. I grabbed his pole and brought the line tight. The jerking of the line revealed to me that Michael had a fish. I gave him the pole back and told him to begin reeling. He was reeling and all of a sudden the pole bent over and the line went out to deeper waters. My dad and I looked at each other and said "he either has a northern pike or muskie." After a few minutes of reeling, the fish was netted and in the boat. The fish was a northern pike measuring about 28 inches. Nice fish, Michael!! After a picture, we threw the pike back into the water. I encouraged dad to give Michael the traditional fisherman handshake: shake hands before washing the fish slime off. Dad originally hestitated, but then decided to do it. Michael didn't seem to mind. This is a sign that Michael is an experienced fisherman now - he has had the traditional fisherman handshake.
Our first stop was at the Sunoco gas station in Potsdam; I needed my cup of Gulliver's hazelnut coffee and Michael needed a bottle of water. Next stop was Dunkin Donuts. It is a tradition that I bring donuts for the trip when I go fishing with dad. We got 6 donuts. I let Michael pick out three of them and said that he could have some, but that he would have to wait until we got on the boat.
On the way to Clayton, Michael and I had a conversation about castles. I shared with him the story about Boldt Castle. I knew that we would arrive a few minutes late, but I thought it would be neat for Michael to actually see the castle. There is a spot in Alexandria Bay, which is on the way to Clayton, that you can see Boldt Castle. We made the side trip and Michael with impressed with it. I also shared with Michael that the Thousand Island Bridge Authority owns Boldt Castle and that I used to paint the bridge during the summers when I college student. On rainy days, we would go to Boldt Castle and paint the steel rafters in the attic. Another interesting point: one of the muskies that was caught on my father's boat is displayed in the billards room at the castle.
We arrived at the marina and my dad greeted us. After quick trips to the bathroom, we all jumped in the boat and my dad skillfully maneuvered the boat out of the boat slip. I'm truly amazed how my dad maneuvers the boat in & out of his slip since it located in the corner the building and there are always boats behind him that he has to avoid hitting.
"Time to open the donut box", I said to Michael. We opened the box and to our amazement one donut was missing. I asked Michael if he had already had one and he said no. Strange I thought since I know we got six donuts and the white frosting to the one missing was on the box. Michael grabbed a donut while my dad and I passed on having any. My dad did have two later in the day and the missing donut remained a mystery.
We got to our first fishing spot, baited our hooks, and dropped our lines in the water. My dad provided Michael with instructions of how to drop his line down and Michael caught on quickly. We were there for about 15 minutes and didn't get any bites. "Time to move, why stay in a spot where there is no action," said dad.
We were on the move to waters located in Canada when dad decided to try one more spot on the US side of the St. Lawrence River. We had our lines down for about 5 minutes when Michael informed me that he thought he had bottom. I grabbed his pole and brought the line tight. The jerking of the line revealed to me that Michael had a fish. I gave him the pole back and told him to begin reeling. He was reeling and all of a sudden the pole bent over and the line went out to deeper waters. My dad and I looked at each other and said "he either has a northern pike or muskie." After a few minutes of reeling, the fish was netted and in the boat. The fish was a northern pike measuring about 28 inches. Nice fish, Michael!! After a picture, we threw the pike back into the water. I encouraged dad to give Michael the traditional fisherman handshake: shake hands before washing the fish slime off. Dad originally hestitated, but then decided to do it. Michael didn't seem to mind. This is a sign that Michael is an experienced fisherman now - he has had the traditional fisherman handshake.
Michael ended up catching a few perch at this same spot. By the time that we were on our way to Canadian waters again, Michael had out fished me in quantity and size. Not bad for his first time out.
On the ride to Canada, Michael asked a lot of questions about the tackle and instrumentation on the boat. He was able to see the us cross the border line on dad's GPS unit. It was pretty interesting. Michael also got to see how my dad finds fish with his depth & fish finder.
My dad and I shared how fishing was a lot different then when I learned how to fish. We didn't have all the fancy instrumentation. We used to go to a spot, put our lines in, and wait for the fish to bite. Now if my dad doesn't mark any fish in an area, he doesn't stop to fish there.
We were at our next stop and Michael caught his first small mouth bass.
We ended up keeping the bass. After dad placed it into the fish well, Michael walked over to him to initiate the tradtional fisherman handshake. My dad looked at him, laughed, and shook Michael's hand.
We caught a total of 6 small mouth bass, two perch, and Michael's one pike. All in all it was a good day of fishing.
Michael learned a lot about fishing. He eventually was able to bait his own hook and take bait off from his hook when it was dead. He also got a lesson in cleaning the fish, but I don't think he enjoyed this part as much as fishing. He also got to eat some of what we caught on Saturday night since we had a fish dinner at his house with the rest of his family.
Thanks for letting my dad and I share our fishing knowledge with you Michael. It was great to spend the day with you and teach you all that we know about fishing. You've graduated from fishing 101 to fishing 102 now and remember what your mom said about the bait that we use in fishing 102.
Michael and I had a conversation about the mystery of the missing donut on the way home. We concluded that my dad must have given one to the marina owner since he was standing next to the boat when we boarded the boat.
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