tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-51793182768947531922024-03-13T13:35:07.687-07:00Vava's ViewI'm a transplanted Texan and glad I am! I love dogs, Jesus, My Guy, my sons and my girlfriends - not in that order. I must start the day with coffee. I tend to have a huge stack of books by my bedside. I enjoy journaling and writing a bit. Hope you enjoy Vava's view!Vava (aka Virginia)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11672805554283285409noreply@blogger.comBlogger154125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5179318276894753192.post-84540682760053927632016-05-13T20:02:00.001-07:002016-05-13T20:02:52.843-07:00Joy Junkie<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Scatter joy." </span></blockquote>
<span style="font-size: medium;"><i>(Ralph Waldo Emerson)</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I am a joy junkie.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">As a young girl I searched for it, not knowing what it was. I was ill at ease with how I looked yet noticed beauty all around me. My mom was a beauty, our home was lovely. We lived in a bucolic setting which wooed me outdoors often. And alone. That is where my imagination flared - with book in hand, I ran away and dreamt of a much different story. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Fifty years have passed since my walks in the woods in Connecticut. Today I am surrounded by Texan trees and live in a spot that is my fairy-tale-come-true home. It is not extravagant or fancy yet it is my first 'home' in 38 years of marriage.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://books.google.com/books/about/Let_Your_Life_Speak.html?id=lGwHBAAAQBAJ&source=kp_cover&hl=en">Parker Palmer</a> tells us to ponder on what filled us with happiness as a child. If we return to it - we might gain a deep seated joy. When I read his book the first time several years ago, it opened my eyes and more importantly, my soul. His words. His thoughts. Read it and you will be blessed.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Below are a few of my go-to's for JOY:</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-size: large;">Fill your tub with bubbles. Soak! </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Spray paint a little something.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Take 20 and do '<a href="http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/ART03455/Legs-Up-the-Wall-Pose.html">legs up the wall.</a>' </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Grab a book and hide from the world. </span><span style="font-size: large;">I suggest "</span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Kitchen-House-Novel-Kathleen-Grissom/dp/1439153663" style="font-size: x-large;">The Kitchen House</a><span style="font-size: large;">."</span></li>
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<br />Vava (aka Virginia)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11672805554283285409noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5179318276894753192.post-43459554050900447142014-01-31T12:55:00.001-08:002014-01-31T12:55:54.729-08:00A Beauty Walk!<div style="text-align: justify;">
Art is a subject that is popping up everywhere around me. And, although I am NOT an artist, for example…I cannot draw a stick figure, well, I have an artistic <i>bent</i>. I appreciate <b>beauty</b> - see it often and in everyday stuff. I am thankful that God made me this way. </div>
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His <b>beauty</b> is what gets me going - what sets me straight - what can change my attitude. I did not have a good one this morning. Attitude, that is. This day I woke up in a dark, weighty mood; I wasn't finding <b>beauty</b>. And so I called on a few women to pray for me. Do you know about them? Maybe not <i>them-them</i>, but do you have peeps in your lives? That you can ask to pray for you and not even tell them WHAT to pray for? Just say "God knows." And, then they are on it. If you don't, you must.</div>
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I had to catch some <b>beauty</b> and the best place is right outside my front door. Our funky, quirky, 1-story sits in a neighborhood with ginormous oaks, winding streets, a few fields, and the hand of God all over it! With my ear buds in, my playlist 'on' - my step got peppy! Every song spoke to my heart - the lyrics were prayers blanketing me AND lifting me higher and higher. </div>
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God was the conductor on my jaunt. At this very moment…</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7CTma2lD4E4">David Crowder's</a> voice rang out: </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"He is the one, He is The King." Agreed! </span></div>
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The longer I walked, my body tired; yet, my soul soared. I walked down a road that ended with an empty lot. It must have had a home there once, but no more. I saw it this summer in all its' finery - green, overgrown, magical. This time of year….it looked different. It matched my early morning soul - dry, lonely, sad.</div>
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I'd really like to ask someone if I could carry these two items to our place. I'm loving that bench and fountain…I mean really - how sad do they look, all alone? We would be a great home. It's a spot in our neighborhood that draws me in….I have to walk through and around trees and bushes. The leaves crunch underfoot and I am once again, a little girl. A child in the woods. Alone. In Connecticut, I spent HOURS in the woods and did not know about God. When I look back, I know that He was beside me, protecting me, bringing me to this place - in life, in marriage, parenting, work, friendships. How sweet, that even then, as a non-believer, as a 'non-knower' - He loved me. </div>
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As I rounded the bend for the home stretch, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-pkKoCaz8_E">139</a>, began. Of course, My Conductor would play that for my finale. And if that's not sweet enough, a chartreuse butterfly, graced our dry, brown yard.</div>
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I see <b>beauty</b> - in soul sisters who pray. In music that heals. On walks with The Lord.</div>
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Vava (aka Virginia)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11672805554283285409noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5179318276894753192.post-32516879328740982502013-12-30T07:33:00.003-08:002013-12-30T07:33:53.994-08:00Brew Some Bubbly!<span style="font-size: large;">It's a champagne time of year: Christmas, New Year's, parties, celebrations. I don't like the stuff.…yet, my innards <i>feel</i> bubbly. There is an air of expectancy and excitement all around me - even if it is only within <i>me</i>. This </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">bubbliness</span><span style="font-size: large;"> (a new word!) slaps a grin on my face while routinely washing dishes. Or watching My Guy <strike>yell</strike> watch his Cowboys. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">January and September are months of renewal. All the hype helps me amp up my goals, write lists, and tidy up. It's natural and a lot of us go this route; yet this season is different. There is an undercurrent coursing through me - lots of </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">bubbles</span><span style="font-size: large;">!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">My Guy and I had an unusually peaceful fall even with #2 Son 'away.' He's in a good place - literally and spiritually and I am very, very thankful. This has allowed us, as a couple, to focus <b>on</b> us. We eat on a tray in front of the TV, wait on each other, shop together, would rather <i>be</i> together than not. Yes, we are goofballs who have a love affair going even after 36 years! It is so much fun and of course adds to my </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">bubbliness</span><span style="font-size: large;">. We've enjoyed many a fire in this, our new'ish, home.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Getting my home back and Christmas packed up is good. My Guy pitched in so it was tackled with ease. One of my JOYS is to construct vignettes, and fluff around the house. Two books I've devoured over my 'staycation' on that very subject are <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Perfectly-Imperfect-Home-Decorate/dp/0307720136">The Perfectly Imperfect Home </a>and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Tom-Scheerer-Decorates-Mimi-Read/dp/0865653054">Tom Scheerer Decorates</a>!!!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">And, I've found a new blog to motivate me. <i><a href="http://www.callingithome.com/">Calling It Home</a></i> is one I'll follow - I love all things 'home.' An entire week AT home is ahead of me before returning to work. So much time and I do not want to waste or ignore it but instead….be <b><u>present over perfect</u></b>. (Oh that <a href="http://shaunaniequist.com/present-perfect/">Shauna Niequist</a> does it every time!!!). Be present. How!? For me, I intentionally thank God for every-single-thing. My heart and head have done a 180 and I can actually feel the gratefulness, the gratitude build, </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">bubble</span><span style="font-size: large;">, and burst! Years ago I read <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Practice-Of-Presence-God/dp/1603862749">Brother Lawrence's</a> account of practicing the presence of God. As much as that tiny book touched me; I thought it was nigh impossible. I would give it a try and have success for a bit. But, it's a slow brew----this bubbling. It takes practice. <u>It is a discipline</u>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">My prayer for the new year is one of Brother Lawrence's:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>"O my God, since Thou art with me, and I must now, in obedience to Thy commands, apply my mind to these outward things, I beseech Thee to grant me the grace to continue in Thy presence; and to this end do Thou prosper me with Thy assistance, receive all my works, and possess all my affections."</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cheers to 2014!!!! May you </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">bubble</span><span style="font-size: large;"> over from the inside out….</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Vava (aka Virginia)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11672805554283285409noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5179318276894753192.post-53373122459126671312013-10-21T13:23:00.001-07:002013-10-21T13:23:06.867-07:00No More Corkage Fees...for me!<span style="font-size: large;">I read a lot. I have stacks and stacks of books. M</span><span style="font-size: large;">ost are highlighted, underlined, and loved on.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Periodically, there is one that stops me in my tracks. A year and a half ago, my pastor recommended Parker Palmer's "<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Let-Your-Life-Speak-Listening/dp/0787947350">Let Your Life Speak-Listening for the Voice of Vocation.</a>" It spoke to me alright and since that time I've been on a mission of sorts.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As <strike>old</strike> 'mature' as I am, I've sensed that I was holding onto something, <i>or</i> something was holding <i>me</i> back. I'd envision a cork on the top of my head that needed <span style="color: red;">UNCORKING</span>. No reference to wine, please. Perhaps the word <span style="color: red;">UNLEASHING</span> is more ladylike!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'd pray and ask God to reveal whatever <b>IT</b> was....others saw IT as well - they'd mention that very thing to me. What is it, Vava????</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">God is good. He met me in a camp in the woods the first weekend in October. I nailed my ____ to the cross, literally and figuratively. Whew----it took a lot of work, a long time, but <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X_2qG22SPwU">His love never fails!</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Then Emily P. Freeman of "<a href="http://www.chattingatthesky.com/">Chatting at The Sky</a>" comes along with her book, <a href="http://www.chattingatthesky.com/">"a million little things-uncover the art you were made to live"</a> and it is blowing me away. I'm on page 105 and it ends on page 212. These first hundred pages are peppered with my comments, squiggles, and highlighting. Goodness - I could not begin to give you my favorite quote thus far. There are <i>so</i> many....</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I've joined the <a href="http://www.incourage.me/channel/bloom">(in)courage bloom book club</a> because they are discussing Ms. Emily's book. I am so down with the manifesto that I did what they asked and posted a pic on Instagram.</span><br />
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(there are a million little things to Vava; these are but a few: I love coffee, the sea, my dogs. I enjoy travel. I love Jesus and in looking back at what hints of my design were hidden in my childhood, found a picture of myself as a wee one).</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">What is <i>my</i> art? Gosh, I am no 'artist' per se. You do NOT want me to sew anything, paint even a wall for you. I can barely eek out a stick-figure. However, I DO have something to offer this world!!!!! And, it's really, really empowering knowing this... but most importantly, believing and LIVING fully!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you want to join in, it's not too late. I'd love to uncover our art together! </span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">"Art is when we do work that matters in a creative way, in a way that touches [people] and changes them for the better."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><i> - Seth Godin, author and entrepreneur</i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Vava (aka Virginia)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11672805554283285409noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5179318276894753192.post-49217093009629130552013-10-12T12:13:00.002-07:002013-10-12T12:18:53.498-07:00Anticipation (in a GOOD way!)So much has gone down since my last post. And of course, God is in all of it! As I mentioned, I don't talk much to our son; however, almost two weeks ago, a VERY cool God-sighting occurred.<br />
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My Guy and I were <strike>having an intellectually stimulating conversation </strike>watching TV at 9 pm when his cell rings. I can hear the anguish, the crying over the phone! It was our son----all 23 years, 6'2" of him, unashamedly bawling and blubbering.<br />
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"The Mom" came out in me. I felt as if I had been punched in the gut. He calmed down as did I. The old-self would have mushed, gushed, and cooed. In her place, I spoke with strength, a calm and a presence of mind. <br />
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The words from my baby's mouth were new words out of his mouth: "The spiritual warfare here is so real. There is evil here. I hold my Bible and cannot open it for all the distraction." THAT is not his normal lingo. (I know it is because so many are praying).<br />
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He then told us something that made the <i>Mom-punched-in-gut</i> feeling hit again. "There are two really evil men who whisper horrible things to me." <br />
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I breathed deeply. I ran for my "<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Prayers-That-Avail-Anniversary-Commemorative/dp/1577947525">Prayers That Avail Much</a>." I prayed. He listened. I ended the conversation telling him I love him. Because I do...just not the way I used to.<br />
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The next day he called My Guy to inform him he had slept like a baby. THAT was a very specific prayer as he had not slept in three nights. Then....get this. Oh. My. Goodness.<br />
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The two 'bad guys' had not gotten off their bunks or from under their covers since 11 pm the night we prayed. It was 1:30 in the afternoon the NEXT day!!!!! Do you believe prayer works???? We do! God gave me a visual of two HUGE, warring angels sitting on those bunks, not allowing the evil to roam around.<br />
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It sounds awful yet I am not devastated. God's so huge that He holds me up and is with me through all of it. I have been able to thank Him for this season. I've needed the break----my focus is on Jesus, The Healer. He's so sweet - giving me a retreat much needed, terrific books that speak right to me, friends who pray. And...THE sweetest - a husband more tender, more loving, more like Jesus than ever.<br />
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Recently, I've found some lovely, deep, <b>causing-me-to-think</b> blogs. Check 'em out....and enjoy!!<br />
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<a href="http://www.chattingatthesky.com/">She</a> is bringing out the artist in me. Yes, me!<br />
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<a href="http://jer-neministries.com/">She</a> is partnering with me. In life. We are on a journey (Jer-Ne!)<br />
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<a href="http://betweenyouandmeblog.com/">She</a> is fun to follow on Instagram and has a GREAT site!<br />
<br />
I'm bound and determined to live the life that is deeper, truer and has been hiding inside of me.<br />
<br />
Love this fall and its' harvest of peace, restoration, healing and anticipation!!!Vava (aka Virginia)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11672805554283285409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5179318276894753192.post-85624587065414456712013-09-08T17:42:00.002-07:002013-09-08T17:42:15.878-07:00A Croce Cry<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Isn't that the way they say it goes?<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Well, let's forget all that<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>And give me the number if you can find it<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>So I can call just to tell 'em I'm fine and
to show<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>I've overcome the blow, I've learned to
take it well<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>I only wish my words could just convince
myself<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>That it just wasn't real<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>But that's not the way it feels…<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>-Jim Croce<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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I had not heard his voice in twelve days. A call came through, and I took it. It was ‘the system’ and I allowed myself to
hear “Hi, Mom.” Whoa. Those two words can really do a number on
ya. I was as stiff, cold and stoic as I
was in our last conversation….<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The crazy part of our story is that as NUTS as our drama is,
as intense and heavy…so is our love. God
made me to love deeply. And I have. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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For me to turn aside, not engage in conversation with him,
was difficult, to say the least. It’s
just better not to talk at all. I need
to <i><u>not</u></i> answer 866 #s!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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What would Jesus do?
Would he answer and talk on the phone?
At this moment, I am a confused Mom.
Lord – give me the strength I need. You are what I need. Help me to pull away…if I am to pull
away. Help me to know what to do.<o:p></o:p></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Vava (aka Virginia)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11672805554283285409noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5179318276894753192.post-26558331349637601872013-08-20T09:39:00.002-07:002013-08-20T09:39:54.172-07:00Out of the Deep!<span style="font-size: large;"><u><b>5 AM</b></u>: I weigh 500 pounds. It's hard to walk, I am drowning...in<b> deep </b>water<b>. </b> Or so it feels.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">My heart and soul are heavy and forced me to stay put today. It is a work day; but I simply <i>cannot</i>. I sit here with a late cup of coffee....it's normally at 5 am not 10 am. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><u><b>10 AM</b>:</u> Joining me is my grand-dog, Lucy, a pit bull. #1 Son has trained her up well. I cannot tell you how much I love this dog. She knows what's going on (and the other dogs do too!!). Canines know us, feel us, and I believe, empathize with us.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I walked into the sun room to quiet my heavy heart---planning to read and just be blah. And, there sat Lucy, with her blue eyes, staring me down. After loving on her a bit, sipping hot coffee and reading <a href="http://www.shaunaniequist.com/">Shauna</a>'s latest post, I'm swimming upward from the <b>deep</b>. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I've got a couple of beautiful boys. One is shiny, the other is tarnished. Shiny son owns Lucy. When he introduced her to me a couple years ago, I was petrified. Really nervous about her. She IS a pit bull.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">We are dog-sitting for a while and I welcome her. She makes my dogs look like buffoons! Lucy is well mannered and loving. As I was petting her, the words "beauty for ashes" played in my mind. The world fears pit bulls; yet they can be beautiful if loved and trained correctly. Beauty for ashes.</span><br />
<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dURU9LUPuLs/UhOYI-U_lbI/AAAAAAAAE5M/C9eCTM9ZFd4/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dURU9LUPuLs/UhOYI-U_lbI/AAAAAAAAE5M/C9eCTM9ZFd4/s640/photo.JPG" width="478" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I am praying for #2 Son - that his ashes will be restored to beauty.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>11:30 AM</u></b>: ...thankful for coffee, the beautiful light in our home at 10 am, dogs' unconditional love, and for days to take care of oneself. Thank You, Lord, for new minutes, and hours - You Who pulls us from the <b>deep</b>.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Onward & UPward........</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">xoxo</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<br />Vava (aka Virginia)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11672805554283285409noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5179318276894753192.post-16030055897589945292013-08-02T16:28:00.001-07:002013-08-02T16:28:31.394-07:00Same Kind as Us-Rick & Kay Warren!!!I shed tears when I heard of Pastor Rick Warren's son's death. It hit (far too close to) home.<br />
<br />
Mental health is a huge issue in these United States...and unfortunately, many who suffer from it, suffer always. Or for a long time.<br />
<br />
The medicine helps. But 'they' don't like to take it. 'They' like the highs and love fixing the lows themselves - with alcohol, drugs, dramatic behavior and/or rages. <br />
<br />
I really feel for Pastor Rick and his lovely wife who are returning to the pulpit this weekend. Their <a href="http://www.saddleback.com/blogs/newsandviews/">interview</a> is candid and shouts truth. I'm with 'em. I need to talk to them. Really.<br />
<br />
Most days I'm the optimist - and can see the glass full. Not half full; but FULL. However, I do have my days when I crash and burn. This afternoon is one.<br />
<br />
You see, we have a son. One who suffers from mental illness and who is currently choosing NOT to heed his doctor's Rx. He thinks life is grand - and that WOULD be the grandiosity that is part and parcel of his illness - below is the def of grandiose in 'shrink-lingo.'<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
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<i><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="cursor: default;"><span style="color: #0055bb;">...</span></span><span name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">having</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">an</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">exaggerated</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">belief</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">in</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">one's</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">importance,</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">sometimes</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">reaching</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">delusional</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">proportions,</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">and</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">occurring</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">as</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">a</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">common</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">symptom</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">of</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">mental</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">illnesses,</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">as</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">manic</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">disorder.</span></span></i></div>
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<span><span name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">I may be too tired to express the <b>depth</b> of my worn-outness (like that word??) <i>on this day</i>....after watching #2 Son 15+ years. Other days I handle it like a champ. But not today. </span></div>
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<span name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="dndata" style="text-align: left;">
<span name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">My friend has a son seven years older than ours who could be our son's twin brother. They've lived through this stuff even longer. I have to wonder-----Lord, how long? How long can he go on like this? How long will he survive? What will become of him? So, I know two stories well. There are so many others.</span></div>
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<span name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">Thank goodness, the Warrens will use their tragedy for good. Aren't we supposed to do that? </span></div>
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<span name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">----------</span></div>
<div class="dndata" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><b>Streams in the Desert</b></span></div>
<div class="dndata" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><b>August 2</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;">"I will make all my mountains a way." - Isaiah 49:11</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;"><i>God will make obstacles serve His purposes. </i></span></div>
<div class="dndata" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><i>We all have mountains in our lives. </i></span></div>
<div class="dndata" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><i>There are people and things that threaten to bar our progress in the divine life. </i></span></div>
<div class="dndata" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><i>These are the very conditions of achievement; they have been put into our lives as the means</i></span></div>
<div class="dndata" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><i>to the very graces and virtues for which we have been praying so long.</i></span></div>
<div class="dndata" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><i>Meet thy trials in Him.</i></span></div>
<div class="dndata" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><i>They are HIS mountains.</i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;">----------</span></div>
<div class="dndata" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #333333;">May I be real? I am bone-weary from mountain climbing. Worn to a nub. This day.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="dndata" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #333333;">And yet...I know that tomorrow brings <a href="http://vavasview.blogspot.com/2013/07/if-i-got-tattoo.html">hope</a> - and Greek hope is THE best kind of hope. Please pray for the Warrens. Pray their congregation 'hears' their hearts and loves them unconditionally. There has already been a book entitled "<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Same-Kind-Different-Modern-Day-International/dp/084991910X">Same Kind of Different as Me</a>" - but me and the Warrens could be Volume II.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;">If you'd like, you may pray for us as well. </span><span style="color: #333333;">We cry-rage-stew-pout-pray-love-cuddle-adore and pray. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;">I need to focus on the praying.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;">Thanks for lending an ear...</span></div>
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Vava (aka Virginia)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11672805554283285409noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5179318276894753192.post-20599335701793531342013-07-01T18:57:00.000-07:002013-07-01T18:57:17.611-07:00If I got a tattoo...<span style="font-size: large;">I'm taking the lead from <a href="http://www.privetandholly.com/">Privet and Holly</a> - and looking back over the past <a href="http://www.privetandholly.com/2013/06/45-days.html">45 days</a>. If you do not know of her blog, GO! She writes so very beautifully!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">In these past 45 days, my heart has broken then healed, shattered a couple more times, then filled to the brim with joy. No matter the state I am in, I have </span><b style="font-size: x-large;">HOPE</b><span style="font-size: large;">. I've always been a </span><b style="font-size: x-large;">hopeful</b><span style="font-size: large;"> gal. And, I've learned a new meaning of that word. We say it often and frivolously. Ya know - we can almost replace it with "I wish." The dictionary definition is quite different from the Biblical def. I have to thank a young "wordy" friend who told me about the Greek meaning. It's deep, rich and profound - to me.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Hope</b> (the New Testament meaning) - is an <u>absolute</u>. It's the Greek word "<b>elpis</b>" which means "to expect or anticipate with pleasure."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Try using <b>hope</b> in a sentence. Or in a prayer. Then, replace that word with "I expect with pleasure..." Oh, my - doesn't that make you giddy!? I almost wish I was a tattoo girl. I would get "elpis" inked on the inside of my wrist. But, I'm not, so I won't.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">And, though, life is never dull around here, it's very often full of <b>hope</b>. I expect with confidence and pleasure that God is taking care of my sons. I thank Him that He's got them in <i>His</i> hands; and I can take <i>mine</i> off. They are buried deep within my heart; and the apron strings are cut. (I never liked aprons any-hoo).</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I am blessed to have a great support system - prayer partners, friends who listen, wise counsel...and their <b>hope</b> is oh so tangible and soothing.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Maybe your <b>hope</b> is bolder. I certainly anticipate with pleasure that it is!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Here's to {Greek} <b>hope</b>, everlasting!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
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<br />Vava (aka Virginia)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11672805554283285409noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5179318276894753192.post-62590160201991168462013-05-28T19:19:00.003-07:002013-05-28T19:47:20.806-07:00No Average Joe!<br />
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There lay my treasured CDs next to the rap trash of #2
son.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A favorite pearl necklace was
strewn over the highway and close by, evidence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Evidence of a dark life, and not what a Mom wants to see. </div>
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The contents of the car had exploded all over the highway
after rolling two times, ending upside down. The car is totaled. Yet he is
absolutely fine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He punched the air bag
and climbed out of the window.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Superman?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just a man.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>A young man whose life has been spared far more than the <b>Average
Joe.</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><b> </b> </span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mskj-sgR5n4/UaVlGMmxRlI/AAAAAAAAE3A/RIXY9rYdLfo/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mskj-sgR5n4/UaVlGMmxRlI/AAAAAAAAE3A/RIXY9rYdLfo/s640/photo.jpg" width="478" />(</a></div>
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I am grateful he’s not hurt, physically.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No broken bones.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No blood in sight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But, his spirit appears broken!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This latest hurdle might crush the <b>Average
Joe</b>; but I’ve accepted and thanked God that I am not average.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am uniquely made to be his Mom and have
beyond-average strength and perseverance.</div>
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Praise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have to
praise God that HE is with me to do this thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Trust.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have to trust God that
HE has this boy covered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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The <b>Average Joe</b> hasn’t been within a block of where our boy
is now paying the consequence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Again,
he’s not average.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He, too, is uniquely
made.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God made him…God knows him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God loves him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love him.</div>
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I’m floundering with this concept: as I live
life…biblically….that is: give my yoke to the Lord, let go, let God, give my
son to Him, have the joy of the Lord, be thankful in ALL,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>how can I reconcile the daily routine of my
boy?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He sits in such a dank, dark,
disgusting place while I have everything I want or need at my fingertips.</div>
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It’s hard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s
really hard to be a Mom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think it may
be extra hard to be <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">his</i> Mom…but
again, I’m not your <b>Average Joe</b>. </div>
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And, so – I will thank the Lord - for He is good. He’s got
me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s got this thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s way ahead of me and His plans are perfect.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s not average either!<br />
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Of course, I had to fluff his room. It was trashed; but not anymore. And on his dresser, a vignette that reminds me of him and the HOPE that I cannot relinquish.<br />
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...if you would, keep our boy in your prayers. <br />
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<br />Vava (aka Virginia)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11672805554283285409noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5179318276894753192.post-65712545359456653922013-02-18T17:28:00.000-08:002013-02-18T17:28:15.627-08:00Country Living is the life!<br />
I have visited the country and loved it - but it was short lived. It was not MY place, just one to visit. I'd be refreshed and energized from such a country visit and always see God! Always! I've learned that nature is my pathway to Him (have you read <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Sacred-Pathways">Gary Thomas' "Sacred Pathways?</a>"). <br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">(view of our new place...the side/back)</span></i><br />
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We've got a God-story for you. Our current suburban residence is the one we've been in the longest - seven years. Two years or so ago, I knew that IF we were to move, God would need to make it obvious.<br />
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As many of my previous posts have been about #2 Son, you know we have a few struggles. He's been home since November 6, 2012 and it has not been easy. His life is very unpredictable. For him. And for us. We need some space; but not be completely removed from his life. Solution: garage apartment; but alas, no such thing in the 'burbs.<br />
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Three weeks ago, at work (my church), I mentioned to a woman that we'd sell our house. No, it was not even on the market. But...there was a beautiful young couple with three beautiful little girls that wanted to live in our area. They came and looked and wanted to buy it. Bam! We needed to find that place with the garage apartment.<br />
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The picture above shows what WILL be #2 Son's garage apartment apres conversion. We are moving out....not too far, but just far enough to think of our new home as living in the country.<br />
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We've lived in ten homes in 35 years of marriage - Saudi Arabia, Denver, Ft. Worth, and seven homes in the Houston area. Our Country Place will be #11. And, it is THE first of all of these that feels like <b>HOME</b>!!!!!!!!!!! <br />
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My Guy and I did a 'drive-by' on the Friday before our appointment. When I stood right about where this picture is taken, my eyes filled up with tears. My {darling} Guy said: "Ya know, it looks like Connecticut." And, that says it all. <b>Home</b>. Where I grew up. <br />
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Next day - I walk through the place. Her Bible was open. "Jesus Calling" was on the table and the peace that covered the property was palpable! I was <b>home</b>.<br />
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Contract offered. Contract accepted. Packing has commenced. Move date is not far away...<br />
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My mind is reeling and my heart skips. I get giddy at the thought of living here. I feel SO blessed!!!!!!!!! It is not grand or fancy yet I am <b>home</b>. <br />
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As I mentioned to friends, this place is bringing out my "East coast-<a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.tracyporter.com">Tracy Porter</a>-Anglophile-God in nature-girl! <br />
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Dad bequethed his Barbour jacket to me when we were on a shoot in Scotland. It was my 40th birthday and he and Libby treated me to THE <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=5179318276894753192#editor/target=post;postID=6777324098955200503">trip</a> of a lifetime!!!! <br />
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This old, well loved, well traveled jacket smells like my Dad and the thought of HIM in it and now me....well, it's just plain FUN! I'll be traipsing around in it, you can count on it! <br />
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And now I simply must order some Wellies!<br />
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<br />Vava (aka Virginia)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11672805554283285409noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5179318276894753192.post-23524368309925757752012-10-25T16:40:00.000-07:002012-10-25T16:40:39.080-07:00Get Your Gratitude On!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Gratitude Journal</b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">...on the counter, by the coffee, so it cannot be missed.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Thirteen months ago I read <a href="http://www.onethousandgifts.com/">One Thousand Gifts</a>. It shifted my heart and my head - and now Ann Voskamp's hauntingly, beautiful book is in the form of a Bible study.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In Vava-terms, you cannot have joy without thanksgiving. That's the bottom line of the book. BUT! Don't just take my word for it. Read it. Now. If you have not.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Today:</u></b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">1. For the beauty in an ugly barrack of #2 Son's graduation.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">2. Uncle Steve's kindly demeanor toward his nephew.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">3. Anticipation of movie night with My Guy.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">4. A good hair day and a pretty necklace.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">5. #1 Son's surprise visit.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">6. Count down until November 6 (NOT the election; but the homecoming of #2 Son).</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">See? My list is certainly not profound. I passionately believe if we open our eyes and thank God for our everything(s), joy takes over. Sometimes it's calm and quiet, sometimes a tidal wave. I'll take either!</span></div>
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Vava (aka Virginia)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11672805554283285409noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5179318276894753192.post-65172987631424938362012-09-14T08:22:00.004-07:002012-09-14T08:27:22.104-07:00Life's No Cake-WalkIn retrospect...<br />
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I don't think I've ever said those words aloud until this morning. You see, it's close to one year that #2 Son left us. Not of his own accord, mind you. "The Authorities" had something to do with it. I often have 'aha' moments or thoughts of clarity while in the shower or putting on my face. So be it, this morning.<br />
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">When you consider something <b>in retrospect</b>, you think about it afterwards, and often have a different opinion about it from the one that you had at the time. </span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Well! H-E-L-L-O, yes I do.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">On November 17, 2011, I heard: "He BETTER learn his lesson." "He's made his own bed, and now he has to lie in it." More comments were peppered our way - many solicited. I am a prayer hog. Not much is off limits for me. Man, I was on board with the decision of the court. He needed this program. There really was no other choice...And, yes, he deserved it AND earned it AND needed it.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">November is drawing near - and he will soon be released to us. Am I ready? I am. In retrospect, it has taken these many months for HIM to submit to authority, be quiet and have lots of time to repent and think. Same for me.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I've spent many hours journaling, in prayer, and reflecting. It's been good - really good. How odd that while my son, my baby, has been behind a barbed wire fence, I have been okay. Not every day, but more often than not. I guess you'd say there has been a calm within <strike>a</strike> <i>my</i> storm. This season has been THE most difficult #2 Son has experienced. I see it on his face when we visit. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Just last week we were granted an hour and a half visit. He literally did a hop-skip, giddy-jump when he spotted us. A HUGE grin spread across that gorgeous face, and he said: "Man, it's good to see y'all. I love you!" We sat and talked quietly.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Toward the end of our time, his shoulders stooped a bit and he told us that he may get written up. The good news is he wears blue - he's a "leader" and has a job. His is in the chow hall...he dishes out the slop. And cleans up. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">He devised a better way to clean CAKE crumbs. Sweep said crumbs from the table into a cup. Dump the cup. Why am I going into so much detail about CAKE!? Patience...</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">A CO walked up to him and informed him he'd be written up. For "stealing CAKE." Now c'mon. There should be consequences for actions. Always. But I believe my son for a number of reasons. Who would want to eat disgusting CAKE crumbs??? Plus, he's a tad OCD and germ-aphobic. Alas....he is under authority; so it's out of my hands.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">We'll learn in our next letter whether the DR (Discipline Report) was dismissed. If it was not, his 'out' date could be extended. I can do nada on his behalf. Except pray - which I have - and asked my prayer team to pray, that #2 Son is granted favor. </span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">In retrospect, the past year has not been a CAKE walk. </span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Our son could not have his CAKE and eat it too; therefore he is where he is...</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">That CO really 'takes the CAKE' when it comes to power trips.</span></li>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">...BUT the icing on the CAKE, will be when our boy comes home, a changed young man. </span></div>
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Vava (aka Virginia)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11672805554283285409noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5179318276894753192.post-8600842792749933092012-08-18T13:37:00.001-07:002012-08-19T09:04:56.035-07:00Beautiful...Bacon. Perfectly cooked, crisp-to-the bite bacon. How I love you, and did not even know it. I've been back a week after a journey to India and have not been myself until today. My Guy sizzled up the kitchen and I was in heaven. The little things we <strike>{spoiled brats}</strike> Americans take for granted:<br />
<ul>
<li>Google</li>
<li>Peanut butter</li>
<li>TV</li>
<li>Apples</li>
<li>Water from the faucet</li>
</ul>
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These are just a few of the things I soaked up after landing stateside. I'm not often word-less; but am finding it impossible to describe this adventure! </div>
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When my pastor first invited me, my heart said 'yes,' but he sagely suggested praying about it. Oh, and seeing what My Guy would think about it. From the get-go, I knew I <i>was</i> to go. I asked Sister Kiwanya to be my partner to speak at the women's conference. (In India, Christians are addressed as Sister and Brother). </div>
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Is she <b>beautiful</b> or what?????</div>
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Well, God certainly knew THE perfect roommate for me. We were overwhelmed (in a GRAND way) by the hospitality, grace, and love of our Indian sisters. Tears fell...often. And then, in our hotel room, on the floor, laughing at night. Just one glance of hers would set me off. We are soul sisters, for life! After day 2, I felt as if I had done 2,000 sit ups, my abs hurt from laughter! In India. In a ummm...'hotel' of sorts, with an air conditioner that forced us to wear socks while sleeping, and our shower was just IN the bathroom. Water, water, everywhere. Shower shoes were a MUST!</div>
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We had been told we'd "teach" or speak to around 50 women. I'm no pastor; but when MY pastor said, "Can you give a party?" Well! H-E-L-L-O, yes, I can. That gave me license to talk from the heart. And so did Kiwanya. We had an interpreter.</div>
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<b>Day 1, Patna, Bihar. </b>We looked out into the classroom of women in saris - so different from us.</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">They stared.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">We shared.</span></div>
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We told stories of families with alcoholism, addiction issues. Of a childhood where parents did not say "I love you." Of single motherhood, of distant parents. Children in trouble. They leaned forward, and heard us. <i>Our</i> very own stories...</div>
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We learned a lovely, universal gesture is placing one's hand on one's heart. We had like hearts. It was <b>beautiful</b>. How many times can one use "<b>beautiful</b>?" Any doubt of why we were there was erased after our intros. We may never know if we TAUGHT them anything; but they loved our love! Oh, how we enjoyed that! They relayed to our interpreter how shocked they were that "people who look like us" have the very same issues! <br />
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<b>Day 3</b>. Kiwanya turned to me and asked: "Sister Virginia, did YOU know what you wanted to do as a little girl?" And at that moment everything made sense. I've always surrounded myself with women, girlfriends. I'm a "woman's woman" far more than a "man's woman!" They give me life. <br />
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As a young girl I was drawn to families - <i>whole</i> families. I invested as much time with them as possible. I loved and STILL love older women - from the Young Life leader, who was probably all of 32, to my 16. To my two aunts and loving <a href="http://vavasview.blogspot.com/2010/01/vavas-view_27.html">Mimi</a>. At church, I stalked a woman to get to know her. I wanted to sit at her feet. My gaggle of girlfriends have saved me. <br />
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And, so never before had Jeremiah 29:11 made more sense. Oh, my YES...does the Lord know the plans to prosper me, to give me hope and a future! A year and a half ago, when Pastor Dan asked me to come to work, I nearly fell over. Next...working in our women's ministry. Then, a mission trip to India...speaking to WOMEN <i>about</i> women, being strong in the Lord! <br />
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So, no, Kiwanya, I don't think I had a grand scheme as a young girl...dreams were dashed and not nurtured. But, the Lord saves. And redeems. <br />
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Back to India...I can't speak for K, but when I WAS speaking, I felt gripped by the Holy Spirit (and that was a specific prayer request of mine!). It was just so delightful to share how to <i>do life</i>. It took a while for the Indian ladies to warm up, but slowly, they'd stand and tell us their needs. Devastated were we. <br />
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Our artist friend, Hannah, made a poster of a vase that we taped to the wall. We handed out a sticky note in the shape of a flower and each woman hand-wrote, in Hindi, her prayer request. They LOVED the poster and it was quite a hit! And, yes - it looked <b>beautiful</b>.<br />
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Now, don't think the trip was all-so-serious. We toured the Taj Mahal. Oh, yes we did.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Agra, India (built 1632-1653)</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his third wife.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Widely recognized as "the jewel of Muslim art in India."</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">(It was stunningly <b>beautiful</b>).</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">We toured "Old Delhi" in a rickshaw. And saw henna heads!</span></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uA5_6UvXlqg/UC_3vWdnnfI/AAAAAAAAExk/RwBvZWjic4w/s1600/IMG_2638.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uA5_6UvXlqg/UC_3vWdnnfI/AAAAAAAAExk/RwBvZWjic4w/s320/IMG_2638.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Cambria;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;">Our hands became works of art...</span></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r_5gU4PjNpQ/UC_4OETfZQI/AAAAAAAAExs/qZq5_Up0VAY/s1600/IMG_2721.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r_5gU4PjNpQ/UC_4OETfZQI/AAAAAAAAExs/qZq5_Up0VAY/s640/IMG_2721.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: large;">But, mostly the work was done in my HEART. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: large;">India - I love. </span></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS 明朝"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">For I know the plans
I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you,
plans to give you hope and a future. </span></i><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS 明朝"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">– <b>Jeremiah 29:11</b></span>
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Vava (aka Virginia)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11672805554283285409noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5179318276894753192.post-67760284565282844272012-07-22T20:10:00.000-07:002012-07-22T20:10:23.534-07:00A Sappy Soul am I!I am such a romantic...but do not play it out very often. It's usually when I am alone, buried in a book, or melted into a movie! Suffice it to say, I'm a sap!<br />
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Tonight, I did not move, while watching "To Gillian on Her 37th Birthday." Yes, it<i> is</i> sappy, but the scenery, OH!----struck such a chord in me, that I pushed the "stop" button so that I could stare at the beaches, the sand dunes.<br />
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Someday, I WILL live by the sea. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eIYRl9SMGvk/UAy98V2xsII/AAAAAAAAEwU/kg3BDrkj1BA/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eIYRl9SMGvk/UAy98V2xsII/AAAAAAAAEwU/kg3BDrkj1BA/s400/photo.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Sunday afternoon, especially THIS one, as I was alone, was sedentary, solitary, and soul-FULL. While leafing through magazines and ogling cozy cottages, ANOTHER chord was struck. I could live in a nest. Our home is not that large; yet...I do not even need <i>this</i>.<br />
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...I think I'm leaning toward getting lean. We need a bedroom, a kitchen, a bedroom for #2 Son when he returns and for guests, and a room full of books. Throw in a couple of potties, ok, ok. Really! What else does one NEED??????<br />
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My Guy shall return tomorrow. I've had four nights by myself with much time to think. I wonder what <i>HE'LL</i> think!!!??? <br />
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Now, all of this processing could very well be due to the fact that on August 1 I head off to India for 11 days. The Lord has been preparing me for that journey - and I am absolutely thrilled to go. I've had a visual of a cork or a stopper on my soul...and HE wants ME to pop. So, pop I shall, in INDIA!<br />
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These times of solitude really do a number on my soul.<br />
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<br />Vava (aka Virginia)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11672805554283285409noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5179318276894753192.post-84297362198406197902012-07-08T12:34:00.000-07:002012-07-08T12:34:27.430-07:00Panhandle Perks!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Road trips - we love 'em! They most often begin with...</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">JUNK FOOD!</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SHMMo2GR4lQ/T_nSx4LdLNI/AAAAAAAAEtk/zY63muBBr8k/s1600/IMG_2251.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SHMMo2GR4lQ/T_nSx4LdLNI/AAAAAAAAEtk/zY63muBBr8k/s320/IMG_2251.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">...and good tunes!</span></div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/rEkd5dmGKRQ?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">My Guy can SING this one!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">We arrive at THE warmest home in the panhandle of Texas </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">and share a libation...</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Mornings on the porch are cool. Doves coo. And trains whistle.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8eW3Xt6xEGM/T_nUdvDxMWI/AAAAAAAAEt0/sZn2fwK3dnQ/s1600/IMG_2269.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8eW3Xt6xEGM/T_nUdvDxMWI/AAAAAAAAEt0/sZn2fwK3dnQ/s320/IMG_2269.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Fun is not an option. My sister + brother-in-law host well.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pD3w4S_XOb4/T_nVLT9n-6I/AAAAAAAAEt8/J0yuK7IUJ2A/s1600/IMG_2281.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pD3w4S_XOb4/T_nVLT9n-6I/AAAAAAAAEt8/J0yuK7IUJ2A/s320/IMG_2281.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">We girls tend to drift from Our Guys. A girl's gotta do</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">what a girl's gotta do...</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Shop, laugh, get pedis, shop, hit antique stores, eat, shop.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.petesgreenhouse.com/">Pete's Greenhouse</a> is a MUST! We played "Where's Patty?"</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ehJyVWJRarY/T_nWB_9OxlI/AAAAAAAAEuM/YP1Zq0fMGYg/s1600/IMG_2331.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ehJyVWJRarY/T_nWB_9OxlI/AAAAAAAAEuM/YP1Zq0fMGYg/s320/IMG_2331.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Time to eat again. A throwback, The Golden Light!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">A little tomfoolery while antiquing!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Friends of all ages are in Amarillo. A good time for all!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Nary a garage sale escapes us!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">"Gabby" got us to our destinations.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(inside joke)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Note The Driver's focus...</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><i>"Seriously? There's a LOOP in Amarillo?"</i></span></div>
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Seriously....we drove a ways out in the country for <i>this</i> garage sale!</div>
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For July 4th, Our Guys even got into Pinterest! The end result was a hit!</div>
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Meet Max. I tried <strike>kidnapping</strike> taking him home. I think he'd really like Houston!</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Amarillo behind us, heading south on 287...</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">home again, home again, jiggety-jig.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">...and I agree. Life IS beautiful!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div>Vava (aka Virginia)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11672805554283285409noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5179318276894753192.post-82030502379777213562012-06-27T05:12:00.001-07:002012-06-27T05:12:30.672-07:00Miracle Grow???<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">How are <i>your</i> <b>miracles</b> growing? </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R8xlc_VIj2Y/T-rwrjuUM0I/AAAAAAAAEtM/LhtyGEMjVYI/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R8xlc_VIj2Y/T-rwrjuUM0I/AAAAAAAAEtM/LhtyGEMjVYI/s400/photo.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">When I glanced at this very old photo yesterday, it made me feel warm and fuzzy. On THAT day, it was a <b>miracle</b> that we captured any love-joy. The minutes up to this photo were <i>wild</i>! #2 Son was running through the blue bonnet fields like a whirling dervish. We begged #1 Son to lasso his little brother. Got 'em! How I love this bunch of hugging boys!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">And so they grew....now into 22 and almost 29 year old young men. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Had I known what was ahead of me, I could <b>not</b> have handled it. </span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Today's <i><b>Jesus Calling</b></i> tells it like it is...</span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XTi9CQgR44s/T-ryb6l37iI/AAAAAAAAEtU/f9TvKxcmf9U/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XTi9CQgR44s/T-ryb6l37iI/AAAAAAAAEtU/f9TvKxcmf9U/s640/photo.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">Six months down and six to go in 2012. Have you been part of any <b>miracles</b>? I have! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm not a green thumb; but have learned I CAN grow <b>miracles</b>. Thought you might like to know how. (It is readily available AND easy to use!) Focus on God above. As our beloved <a href="http://www.poeticwanderlust.com/">Tracy Porter</a> espouses, "...eyes up!" </span><span style="font-size: large;">IF I focus on the overwhelming issue or the current 'whirling dervish' of life... I am sucked right up into it!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Take a moment to soak in that devotional: "rest with Me, focus on Me, I will equip you...." Oh, it works, it works, it works.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Miracles</b> are popping up all over my family. They are HUGE! I wish I could tell you all of them; but some of my peeps are a tad more private than I am. Just trust me. <b>Miracles</b> DO happen!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Open up that '<b>miracle</b> grow' of YOURS!!! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Dig deep - place your 'stuff' at the cross - cover it all with prayer - and <b>believe</b>! Believe that NOTHING is too hard for Him!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I've decided to track my <b>miracles</b>. A little notebook is devoted to them - big and small. Wanna join me????? In six months, let's see how many {more} grew? </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Get planting...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>Vava (aka Virginia)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11672805554283285409noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5179318276894753192.post-72009193832055514892012-06-19T06:23:00.002-07:002012-06-19T06:23:34.343-07:00The Harvest Season!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I cannot wait for fall. What you say? Summer has just begun. Yes, BUT...fall is my most favorite time of year. Perhaps because it is the time of my birthday, or that it was when I got new school supplies. "<a href="http://youtu.be/xgCt-F22Ex0">See you in September</a>" forces me to close my eyes and sway a bit. Fall is <i>my</i> 'spring' - time of renewal.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">AND, everything I listen to or have read in the past few days points to a HARVEST OF JOY around the <i>corner</i>. <b>Promises</b> in the Bible, in songs, in my readings. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Definition of harvest:</u></b></span><br />
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<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">a yield</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">the consequence of an effort or activity</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">the gathering</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">the season</span></li>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">#2 Son is to return home in September - these past 10 months have been a <b>S</b>eason, with a capital "S", a consequence of certain "<i>activities</i>" of his. The YIELD will be repentance & restoration. And the gathering.......oh, the reunion! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">We will have one 8-hour day with him in August - his furlough, before his sentence is over. See? August - fall'ish. So much to look forward to...</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Today, I was led to this Psalm of restoration:</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3sYfeCPH8VA/T-B810GJk-I/AAAAAAAAEtA/0zp7EpjYubI/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3sYfeCPH8VA/T-B810GJk-I/AAAAAAAAEtA/0zp7EpjYubI/s640/photo.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">He is bringing our family out of captivity. Better than we ever dreamed. We are filled with joy. We have shed many a tear, but will reap with songs of JOY! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Can I hear a chorus of woo-hoo's please??????</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">JOY to you...</span><br />
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<br />Vava (aka Virginia)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11672805554283285409noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5179318276894753192.post-44348546126340382172012-06-02T15:53:00.001-07:002012-06-02T15:53:40.889-07:00No-Holds-Barred<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">He is poetry to me. Strong, yet restrained. Calm and accepting. Loving. So filled with love, that in his presence, I can sense it. We don't get to hold him, hug him, or even peck him on the cheek. <i>But</i> the love was pinging all around us.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">We had 90 minutes today...which is 30 extra. He wears a blue smock now - an outward signal that he is a <i>leader</i>. They call those in blue "<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #6fa8dc;"><b>Structure</b></span>." He had to be voted on among his peers and the promotion brings perks: more visiting time, first in line at chow.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">My Guy snapped a picture while we were waiting. What you may not be able to see is <b><u>the smile</u></b>. This picture speaks a thousand words. My boy behind bars, held back, fenced in, restricted, guarded. You can see where this is going...</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NCt39tHxR3c/T8qQVKmXXQI/AAAAAAAAEs0/lpXt_DZnXV4/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NCt39tHxR3c/T8qQVKmXXQI/AAAAAAAAEs0/lpXt_DZnXV4/s640/photo.JPG" width="506" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">And so from here we were let in through the gate to a large room - set up in a "U" - where we sat across from #2 Son. <b><u>I</u></b> then became a prisoner....restrained, held back, forbidden. To touch. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">{I did sneak a hand holding when I was sure the guard's gaze was averted}. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I stared at him. He looked good. No, actually GREAT - with a touch of sunburn/tan to his face...which made him appear healthy. As I looked at him, I couldn't help but watch <i>him</i> watch My Guy, his Dad. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">We womenfolk tend to notice what our guys may not. #2 Son rarely took his eyes off of his Dad. He'd catch me staring and I'd wink. I wanted to capture his face on film SO badly.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">My Guy has been over-the-top supportive these past 7 months and #2 Son now <b>knows</b> the love his Dad has for him. I'VE known of it, but #2 Son <i>perceived</i> a lack. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">An interesting way to spend a Saturday: arrive early, spend an hour listening to a counselor, then 90 minutes with him. There were varying degrees of emotion. Faces of frustration, smiles of forgiveness, and unconditional love. A mish-mash of humanity!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">We have June, July, August and 10 days in September to ramp up and become strong and able. He'll return home to us. Transformed. This journey is not only about him, though. My Guy and I must be transformed. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">What is my take-away today? Well, appreciate what you've got people. A dear friend is going through a very rough season with her very ill husband. She asks us to do the same: do not take anything for granted. I don't.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I thank God for my family. My Guy, My Sons and the extended peeps I love. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Blessed am I! And in a few months, our family will be FREE. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">No-holds-barred.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Vava (aka Virginia)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11672805554283285409noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5179318276894753192.post-91620221841551402472012-05-28T18:19:00.003-07:002012-05-29T04:36:44.830-07:00I Know My Own Strength(s)<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">"When can we start?" is a recurring question in my life. Always rearranging my furniture, switching my calendar system, starting a new book, trying the latest product. <a href="http://strenghtsfinder2,0">StrengthsFinder 2.0</a> helped me to understand why! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">When I learned what my "strengths" were - my brain was exploding with those 'aha' moments: <i>AHA</i>, <b>that's</b> why! <i>AHA</i>, <b>no kidding</b>. <i>AHA</i>, <b>cannot wait to explore that one! </b>It is empowering to see - in black and white - my strengths. We women can play the humility game all too well, right? As long as Christ is at the center, our strengths are a blessing.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The on-line test revealed mine as:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>1. positivity</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>2. empathy</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>3. woo</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>4. communication</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>5. activator</i></span><br />
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<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I see the glass half full.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I often put myself in your shoes.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I love to <b><u>w</u></b>in <b><u>o</u></b>thers <b><u>o</u></b>ver (WOO).</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I enjoy communicating (blog, FB, face to face).</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I dig action - moving furniture, "<a href="http://vavasview.blogspot.com/2010/03/you-making-party.html">make a party</a>," anything spontaneous!</span></li>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">There are sensitive aspects of a strength - I witnessed this recently with someone I love. I sensed this person feeling left out, perhaps intimidated, inadequate. So much so, that I did not want to make eye contact as I did not want him/her to know that I know. My heart and gut hurt. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">A couple of hours later, I processed WHY I "felt" that person so much. THAT would be the empathy trait. Many, many times I have had that gut-ache and could not articulate WHAT it was. Empathy aches. Those lacking the empathy gene might not have the gut/heart aches; they are a bit more inconsiderate or distant. Give me the aches!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Let-Your-Life-Speak-Listening/dp/0787947350">"Let Your Life Speak" by Parker J. Palmer</a> is a little book I read prior to the strengths book. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The title is a time-honored Quaker mantra. I devoured it, took notes and highlighted it to pieces! May has been a good month for good books!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I believe life teaches me something most days. I don't want to just slip n' slide through it but </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>welcome the LARGENESS of life that now lies open to our souls </b></span>("Let Your Life Speak")<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">. </span></i><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Vava (aka Virginia)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11672805554283285409noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5179318276894753192.post-68328715796235046172012-04-06T15:19:00.000-07:002012-04-06T15:19:07.584-07:00A REALLY Good Friday!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">It's Good Friday...and it really is! First pedi in ages - pale toes for Spring. Date Night with My Guy. Good Friday. A phone call from #2 Son.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">What's the big deal you ask about a phone call? Well, #2 Son was transferred to "the program." It is an intense one at that...starting with 35 days of Orientation (translation: no contact other than letters). However, he completed his "modules" 15 days early AND was rewarded a call to his Dad. My Guy relayed how strong he is, how positive he is, and how "other-focused" he is. He asks about <i>us</i>.... </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">He is in a Mental Health Residential Program mandated by the courts. We miss him. Crazily. I have to confess, it took three months or so for ME to miss him. But, oh how God restores the heart - especially between a child and his parents! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">It's timely that I just started <a href="http://www.lproof.org/">Beth Moore's "James"</a> study. In the intro, she talks of how we fill our emptiness with girl friends and people who think like us. If we are at odds with family members OR if we think our family is odd, it hurts. I agree. No matter how brave and bold I am when I say: "oh, I'm ok. Haven't seen so & so in ages, we have nothing in common." Deep down, I ache for a connection with that family member. "<b>Have you discounted His ability to restore your natural family?" </b>{Beth Moore} </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">...and until restoration occurs, there is the One who can fill our aching hearts. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I'd love to share a portion of one of our son's letters:</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WaJi4alVlNo/T39mP6IwnhI/AAAAAAAAErk/rktSUq3p0xc/s1600/IMG_1761.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WaJi4alVlNo/T39mP6IwnhI/AAAAAAAAErk/rktSUq3p0xc/s640/IMG_1761.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">If you "knew us when..." Mmm. And all his letters read like this. I believe that God is doing a mighty work in our boy. Our family WILL be restored. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Oh, yes, it's a GOOD Friday!!! And to make it even more so... I WON a "giveaway" from <a href="http://www.houseofturquoise.com/">House of Turquoise!!!</a> Yup, that was me who squealed with delight!! Check out a lovely book by <a href="http://www.thecollectedtabletop.com/">Kathryn Greeley</a>. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">So dear friends, I'm praying we all take time to contemplate what these next three days mean. And get some happy toes while you're at it! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Happy Resurrection Day!</span>Vava (aka Virginia)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11672805554283285409noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5179318276894753192.post-31041714074705927302012-02-14T16:31:00.000-08:002012-02-14T16:31:18.424-08:00BIG Love!Let me tell you a love story. Once upon a time, in a family of four, two boys were well loved. They were seven years apart in age. The eldest entered the world with ease, everything came easily for him, that is, until #2 Son hit grade school. Family dynamics changed. But...there was still a lot of <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">BIG</span></b> love.<br />
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When #2 was good, he was very, very good and when he was bad... well, I won't spill <i>all</i> our beans. But, throughout "it" all - from the first day I held him, until my last touch, on November 17, 2011, I loved fiercely. <br />
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I must confess that I lost that lovin' feeling over the autumn of 2011. When he was sentenced in November, I was MORE than fine with the judge's decision. For the first four weeks, I was firm in my belief that he deserved this. He was in the right place. And it was high time that My Guy and I had peace. This was <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>BIG</b></span>. <br />
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And then, he morphed, became a new person. I must give credit where credit is due, it was the Lover of our souls Who was working on #2. It has now been three months. Three months of nothing to do all day other than watch TV, play dominos, and read (<i>The Bible </i>and <i>Purpose Driven Life</i>). He is in a "detention facility" until his transfer takes place. There are NO programs, no structure. Boredom with a capital "B." Yet, he survived the first month which was quite hellish. He's strong as an ox. When we visit, he asks how WE are. That's <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">big</span></b>. The love he has for us is blatant.<br />
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And, in the last two months, I have that lovin' feeling back. Oh, my goodness....three days ago while staring at his face through a thick piece of glass, I wanted to hug him so badly, I ached. We placed our hands on that glass and "touched" the best we could. The love between #2 Son, My Guy and me is palpable. We stick out in that facility. Like sore thumbs. <br />
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#1 Son has a newfound respect for his little brother and expresses HIS love to him. That's <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">big</span></b>. <br />
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The {love} story is not over....many more chapters in the making. But, #2's story was known and crafted long, long ago by The Author of Life <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(a song I sang to #2 when he was 10)! </span>HE knows what's best for both my boys. Oh, and for me as well. This is a difficult season; but <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">BIG</span></b> things are happening. <br />
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Our God is <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">BIG</span></b> enough to handle all of it - all of us - no matter where we are: in a jail cell or in the suburbs. <br />
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It's Valentine's Day and my heart is full. My Guy and I are in a really good place with one another. We have fun, we laugh, and cater to each other. It's <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>BIG</b></span>! My only wish is that I could break #2 out of jail for one long hug.Vava (aka Virginia)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11672805554283285409noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5179318276894753192.post-36847030540276752362012-02-01T15:26:00.000-08:002012-02-01T15:26:03.124-08:00Like her or not, I do!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I so dig digging until I find something I cannot live without (translation: it need not be pricey!). It may be a</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> book - picture frame - footed tray - tarnished silver - those treasures that tickle <i>my</i> fancy.</span><br />
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</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Several years ago, my friend, Peaches, came to town and we hit <a href="http://www.theguildshop.org/">The Guild Shop</a> run by St. John the Divine. It's a resale shop that's a "<i>cross between Antiques Roadshow and your grandma's attic</i>." It takes a certain person to scour for hours. Peaches was my main gal!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I know several others who would lose their mind at The Guild Shop. Some {dear pals} I've not yet met other than </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">through email, and an occasional phone call. We discovered one another on a certain lifestyle blog. And, it was there I learned I am not the only nut who enjoys the hunt, rearranges furniture {a lot!}, collects shelter magazines & books on decorating. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I cannot wait till they visit - we most certainly will bust down the doors of The Guild Shop! One of my favorite purchases is a vintage lamp. It's a personal thing. I know some do not "get" her; but every time I look at her, I smile. Well, the poor dear wore a horrible lamp shade for the past 2 or 3 years until just last week. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Let me introduce my little pretty:</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I went to a lamp shop where an expert found just the right shade, and</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">shortened the harp (...and SHE told me SHE would have grabbed this ole gal herself). Like I said, some would, some would not.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Let me know if YOU have that certain something sitting in your haven, that may not appeal to your guests, but it sure tickles YOUR fancy. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Hhhmmmm.....may be time for a visit. To a <a href="http://www.theguildshop.org/">thrift store</a>.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
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</span></div>Vava (aka Virginia)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11672805554283285409noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5179318276894753192.post-83737524994845292792012-01-21T18:53:00.000-08:002012-01-21T18:53:50.025-08:00Saturday-FUNday...in H-Town!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">What a FUN day....we headed into town for a couple of errands. Our favorite optometrist is inside the loop and it's time for a new look - I'm going the Tina Fey route. Or...Debra Messing in her upcoming show, "Smash." Darker frames, tortoise shell - a more intelligent look.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Our kale, blueberry and protein shake for breakfast was wearing off; so I googled. Although we are changing our way of eating, it DOES include a bit of protein. Burgers - as long as grass fed - are ok. Yup, I found where in Houston to eat such a burger!</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JYSBKchwFjo/TxtwwpqTSkI/AAAAAAAAEos/9lYf9tM9FMo/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JYSBKchwFjo/TxtwwpqTSkI/AAAAAAAAEos/9lYf9tM9FMo/s640/photo.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The <a href="http://berniesburgerbus.com/">website</a> will inform you of their location...they're always on the move. May I say, I thoroughly enjoyed {i.e., devoured!} my burger. Sans bun + fries. My piece of grass-fed beef was smothered with bleu cheese, burgundy-infused mushrooms, and "tipsy" onions. OMgoodness!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">On the way to the eye doctor, I chomped gum and chewed on mints to deflect those onions...poor eye docs! Those close encounters! Ewwwww. Any-hoo, had tons of fun picking out my new frames.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Time for a more serious stop. We went to visit #2 Son.....and felt like tour guides as we helped several couples learn the ropes. It's rather strange to feel comfortable on Baker Street in Houston. Our</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">boy is doing well - God is working within the system. He's been incarcerated for 9 weeks and is the most stable we've ever seen him. Since time heals all wounds, I am <i>now</i> ready (i.e., no longer angry) to wrap my arms around him. In fact, it kills me that we cannot touch. Talking through the speaker with a thick glass between us is NOT good for mother-love. Or father-love (especially since My Guy is so tender...).</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Speaking of My Guy, he suggested another stop downtown - <a href="http://phoeniciafoods.com/">Phoenicia</a>. We literally went around the world - it was fascinating to see so many countries represented in food aisles!!!!</span><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">An olive oil aisle that went on forever....</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J_A2l-UAR4Q/Txt29-5c3FI/AAAAAAAAEo8/eZLSe4F3kdE/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J_A2l-UAR4Q/Txt29-5c3FI/AAAAAAAAEo8/eZLSe4F3kdE/s640/photo.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Coffees from every corner of the world!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Date Day</b> in H-town is as fun as we make it folks! Something I want to be intentional about is to <u>step out of my box</u>. I want to explore - enjoy - and love my days to the fullest. I'm a lucky gal to have a Guy who wants to hang with me and do the same. 2012 is rockin' thus far!</span></div></div>Vava (aka Virginia)http://www.blogger.com/profile/11672805554283285409noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5179318276894753192.post-44689621132797333762012-01-15T15:28:00.000-08:002012-01-15T15:28:52.687-08:00CPR for The Soul!<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I love my "<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><b>stuff</b></span>" - it brings me comfort. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">But, </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">this is getting a little nuts...</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z8CxUT8NwjA/TxNJpO1sSjI/AAAAAAAAEoM/8NDH0-m7aoc/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z8CxUT8NwjA/TxNJpO1sSjI/AAAAAAAAEoM/8NDH0-m7aoc/s640/photo.jpg" width="577" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">That would be the make-up drawer of a product junkie! And, believe it or not, this is the <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><b>stuff</b></span> that I {only} use on a daily basis! I have more, hidden from sight. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">It's hard for me to keep my "toilette" simple. But, it IS more appealing, the older I get. Really! Who do I need to impress? IF I get to that <i>less is more look</i>, I'll let you know.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">All around me, it's always been <i>more is more</i>. Friends come over and ask:</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_ohH1sx4WdA/TxNK_h-Dg_I/AAAAAAAAEoU/u5usBQdd01g/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_ohH1sx4WdA/TxNK_h-Dg_I/AAAAAAAAEoU/u5usBQdd01g/s640/photo.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">"Vava, do you have enough black pencils?"</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I think I'm ready to simplify - starting with that toilette of mine, getting organized and purging <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><b>stuff</b></span>!</span></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">AND, this unexpected season is a gift I never saw coming. The quiet in our home is just what the doctor ordered. Literally. I treasure my early mornings: coffee, journal, my daily must-reads, and time with Him.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F_Izr5sInm4/TxNM4TNwJhI/AAAAAAAAEoc/7bAOxZXwKas/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F_Izr5sInm4/TxNM4TNwJhI/AAAAAAAAEoc/7bAOxZXwKas/s640/photo.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In the afternoon, two dogs are it, when I walk in from work. No other demands of me. (Well, My Guy, yes. But I get home a few hours before he does.)</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">One project that will help organize me is on the drawing board. We are turning our study into a "library." It is heavy with furniture: BIG desk, and not-so-pretty free standing bookshelves. We no longer use the space as originally set up. I'd like to make every room user-friendly. John, the carpenter, came by last weekend to measure and the big reveal should be mid-February. By now, you know I MUST have tons of books. I plan on organizing them and putting all of them in our "new" room. The thought of a room for reading just about makes my head spin...in a good way!</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Part of the reason for writing this year is so our son can read it when he comes home. He is a fan of mine (blog-wise) and will miss out on Life at Home for many months. He told My Guy and me: "...be strong, I am going to make it." Well, if HE is, so am I! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Another plan of mine is to be intentional in how I <i>spend</i> time. I don't want to <i>waste</i> it. I want to read more than watch TV. I'd like to do more with friends. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3ICGHdjHHZ4/TxNRgsGUCqI/AAAAAAAAEok/Q8RhDiIuoSk/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3ICGHdjHHZ4/TxNRgsGUCqI/AAAAAAAAEok/Q8RhDiIuoSk/s640/photo.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">...have friends to our table. Talk. Laugh. Fellowship. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Friends are "the <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><b>stuff</b></span> of life" I DON'T want to purge! <b><u>They are a blessing.</u></b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Vava's List for 2012</u></b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">1. Take less time to get ready in the mornings = purge products!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">2. Purge each room monthly = dispose of <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><b>stuff!</b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">3. Get strong = exercise!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">4. Read!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">4. Stay connected to God!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">5. Connect with friends!</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red; font-size: x-large;"><u><b>C</b></u></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">onnect + </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red; font-size: x-large;"><b><u>P</u></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">urge + </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red; font-size: x-large;"><b>R</b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">ead = CPR for my soul!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
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