Verbal Vomit

untapped resource

2012-02-06T11:07:00.000-06:00

"The single largest pool of untapped resource in this world is human good intentions that never translate into action."

-Cindy Gallop

Books & Date Night

2012-01-31T06:30:00.000-06:00

I didn't realize until right now what a "hot mess" my hair was that day - obviously my study mates and I have gotten so close to one another, none of us care about our looks upon arrival to the group. It is what it is- we have a job to do. We met Friday for nursing school paperwork pursuits at Starbucks. Here is a small sampling of the books we had with us to attempt to get the job done - there were only 3 of us there, the book to person ratio was crazy.

The stack was so big, we had to get a stool from the bar area to put some of them on to have room left on the table itself - craziness. This is life at present! Folks keep asking me "how is school?" and the only answer I know to give is a smile and these words: "it's kicking my butt". But, the Lord is sufficient and is constantly reminding me again and again (I'm hard headed that way) that He's with me and only asks for me to take it one day at a time and never on my own!

In other news, I did have an opportunity to take a break Saturday night after my clinical (645am-415pm) thanks to Mr. McGoo's preparation and pursuits of a date night! We went to a drive-in (one of our favorite things to do), grilled out brauts on the portable grill out there and snuggled in to watch The Grey and Underworld. I made it through The Grey without any trouble, enjoying the quality time with my hubs, however halfway through Underworld I was out, catching Zzzz's.

The flash on Mr. McGoo's phone was INSANE!

Study Attempt

2012-01-26T07:07:00.000-06:00

It's pretty normal that after class in the evenings I have to come home, grab a quick bite to eat and begin working on the next task (assignment or study time) at hand. This process is NOT very conducive for my attention desiring furbaby or my rest.

Dex doesn't see his mama from 730am until 9pm+ most days, and therefore when I finally get home, he is more than ready for some TLC. Here is what happens if I haven't given him enough to his liking... good luck studying like this! I even attempt to push his head off, and he comes right back.

Pitiful.
Annoying.
And super cute!

Stuck Inside a Comic Book

2012-01-19T13:08:00.000-06:00

A silly example of McGoo's phone and its crazy photo capabilities... the title of this post is his witty tagline for the photo he posted last night. Made me laugh.

In other news, today begins my first actual clinical day (not just in the nursing lab). I'm super excited, nervous, and anxious all balled into one. Taking one step closer to obtaining that RN at the end of my name. One day at a time!

New Home Addition

2012-01-15T18:00:00.000-06:00

Exciting news! Our new stove & oven has arrived and is now fully in place! A fabulous Christmas present indeed.

Our other stove & oven had 2 of the 4 burners out - one of which was the only "large" burner. One of the "working" burners only stayed hot if you had it at a tilt - talk about annoying!

So here is the beauty:

Mr. McGoo and I are enjoying the ease of such a new kitchen appliance! We feel spoiled!
Thanks Dad McGoo!

Spring 2012

2012-01-14T16:00:00.000-06:00

Another trimester of nursing school is underway... full steam ahead already! We began Wednesday, Jan 4th with a Dosage Competency Exam and officially began classes the day after - Thursday, Jan. 5th.

This is truly the wildest trimester yet... I'm taking 2 classes, 10 credit hours worth of activity = Monday (6-815pm), Tuesday (6-815pm), Wednesday (6-915pm), Thursday (6-915pm), and a full day Saturday (645am-415pm+). Although I'm looking forward to getting into the real nitty-gritty of nursing (they say I'll begin to feel like a real nurse towards the end of this trimester), the learning curve is extreme and the workload intense.

Again, I'm so thankful for the classmates that partner with me, encourage me, and keep me accountable. And especially thankful for the hubs at home that walks with me through this crazy journey and helps me along the way! Plus it doesn't hurt that my fabulous Mama is a RN herself - she'll get more than a call or two this trimester for sure!

To give you a visual - here are my textbooks for this trimester... Yikes!

All that to say, school and work is pretty much what is going on with me lately - everyday. So don't be surprised if the blog lacks during this time. I'm doing my best to remember Philippians 4:6-7, taking it one day at a time, and remembering I cannot and don't want to do this on my own! Thankful I don't have to!

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." - Phil. 4:6-7

New Year's - Boy or Girl?

2012-01-13T17:05:00.000-06:00

For New Year's Mr. McGoo and I traveled to Nashville to visit with my middle sis and brother in law. The weekend was full of fun things like Mr. McGoo going to the Music City Bowl Game with our B.I.L. and friends, me spending some quality time with my preggo middle sis, us visiting Green Hills Church on Sunday and hanging out with dear friends Mike & Tabitha, and most specifically the Baby Kee Gender Reveal Party!

Yup, my middle sis and brother in law are pregnant - Baby Kee is due in May 2012! We're excited and looking forward to welcoming a new addition to the family!!!

In typical Robin fashion, she rocked an adorable party to reveal the gender of baby Kee to friends and family! We all joined together on New Year's Eve to eat our way through DELICIOUS cake-pops to find out with Mom&Dad Kee-to-Be what they were having... boy or girl?

Below are photos of those who voted BOY and those who voted GIRL:

To find out what Baby Kee is going to be and what team was victorious check out my sister's blog: KEE CREATIVE! There are lots of photos from the party - Robin's decor is amazing, as usual. I was the photographer of the evening - not a pro by any means, but I'm pretty sure I captured enough with the camera to give the gist of the festivities. Enjoy!

Mom and Dad to be... May 19, 2012

LOVE YOU SIS & BRO - We're pumped for you guys! Congrats!

Christmas Time

2012-01-11T17:05:00.001-06:00

Christmas already seems forever ago... but it's really only 17 days ago. Crazy. Most Christmas holidays I look forward to diving into a book or two and spending unlimited time with my family. This Christmas, I definitely was blessed with family time, but I did not pick up a book. My mind needed the rest.

Now 17 days later, the "daily grind" has cranked it up a notch, or ten. Busy busy. Nevertheless, I do not want to forget the great time of Christmas. I must acknowledge the fun time I enjoyed with my family, the rest that was much appreciated and needed, and the awesome reminder that my Savior humbled himself to come to this early for ME (and YOU)!

Merry Christmas!

I took a ton of photos over the week of Christmas... here a few to share. I love my family - I'm so blessed!

Wilson Ladies - minus the fab middle sis, Robin

I love my parents!

Mr. McGoo & I Christmas Eve

Mr. McGoo, Dexter, and I - Christmas Day

Niece Grace and Me

Daddy Larry and Nephew Tristan

Bro and Sis McGoo - Kevin and Leah

Something New: French Dip

2011-12-30T09:29:00.000-06:00

At the suggestion of my middle sis, I prepared this dish for friends Wednesday evening. It was a last minute suggestions so we attempted to cook the meat on HIGH for 3.5-4hours, instead of the suggested 7 hour process on low. The taste was delicious, but the meat was not close to being tender, as I imagine it is with the low setting process. All the reviews say so!

Give it a try! It's super simple, but don't make it last minute like I attempted - I think the results will speak for themselves. Delish!

Easy Slow Cooker French Dip

Ingredients

    * 4 pounds rump roast
    * 1 (10.5 ounce) can beef broth
    * 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed French onion soup
    * 1 (12 fluid ounce) can or bottle beer
    * 6 French rolls
    * 2 tablespoons butter

Directions

Trim excess fat from the rump roast, and place in a slow cooker. Add the beef broth, onion soup and beer. Cook on Low setting for 7 hours.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Split French rolls, and spread with butter. Bake 10 minutes, or until heated through.
Slice the meat on the diagonal, and place on the rolls. Serve the sauce for dipping.

Graduation Party

2011-12-28T15:36:00.000-06:00

In honor of Mr. McGoo's graduation, I threw (with SUBSTANTIAL help from my mom and middle sis) a graduation party open house for the hubs! It was great!!! Mom and sis did so much to make the evening fantastic for all. Mom took care of the house and edibles, while sis did all the decor and even made the invitation.

You definitely want to check out the awesome photos from the event... they can be found on my sister's blog: Kee Creative. Go check them out!

Graduation

2011-12-22T14:41:00.000-06:00

Three and a half years ago, my hubby and I made a dramatic change. We left the DINK* world and became a SINK* family. Instead, Mr. McGoo began to pursue his college degree and work for the Univeristy of Memphis as the manager for the men's soccer team, which provided the funds for his schooling.

I am amazed that we are now standing on the other side of that journey, 3.5 years later! Mr. McGoo graduated cum laude from The University of Memphis last Saturday, December 17th. To say I am a proud wife is an absolute understatement!!!

As I waited with our family for the graduation ceremony to begin, I began to think over the past 3.5 years and all that God has done in and through this dramatic change in our life.

For example:

He provided a way financially for Mr. McGoo to go through his position with U of M soccer.
During the summer Mr. McGoo had time and availability to go to Ethiopia with our church (twice & on winter break) - an event God used to change my husband spiritually forever as well as benefit our marriage relationship.
I came home every night to a man with renewed passions, interests, and desires - saying goodbye to the less than excited man that rested at home after a long, boring day at the office.
We were never without while living (and continuing to live) as a SINK family.

There is much more I can testify to, but the underlying theme for all is GOD IS GOOD, HE IS IN CONTROL, and HE IS FAITHFUL! Thinking through it all brought me to tears - in awe of God's faithfulness for Mr. McGoo and me.

Here are some shots from the big day!

Granddaddy, Mr. McGoo, Grams

Mr. & Mrs. McGoo

Grams and niece, Grace

Grace pointing out Mr. McGoo's name in the program

Mr. McGoo and nephew, Tristan

*DINK = Double Income No Kids
*SINK = Single Income No Kids

20 Months

2011-12-20T07:30:00.000-06:00

One more trimester of school complete! Saturday I took my final skills checkoff for the hardest class I've yet to meet in nursing school: Basic Skills of Nursing. With the completion of the final, I wrapped up one more trimester.

My grades:

A - Essentials for Professional Nursing (3 credit hours)
B - Basic Skills in Nursing (4 credit hours)

I've never worked so hard for a B, and considering full time work and life outside of that, I definitely consider this trimester a _______ (cue photo below)!

That photo was too cute to pass up!

I really could not have done it without my study group. We definitely keep each other accountable. If you don't stay on top of the material, it quickly gets on top of you. Our study group works together to try to stay ahead of the game or at least on schedule. They have been a blessing and I look forward to tackling next trimester with them.

However, we are now stepping into our MUCH NEEDED short break. As of today, we have 15 days until we report back to campus for our Medication Dosage Competency Exam - January 4th. Then classes begin the very next day and a brutal schedule greets us. I know we are all looking forward to the next 15 days with our family, friends, and simple down time.

20 months to go!

Stomach Bug

2011-12-19T20:29:00.000-06:00

Last weekend, Mr. McGoo and I experienced the worst stomach bug ever. One that I've learned has wrecked havoc on multiple families within our network. It's the nasty coming out of both ends kind of bug and it was horrible! I wouldn't wish it on anyone!

Mr. McGoo came down with it Saturday night and fought it through Monday. I felt 'under the weather" Monday and attempted to get well as soon as possible with much rest and Niquil. It seemed to work because by Monday evening I felt good to go.... unfortunately 430am Tuesday became a new story - the bug hit me in full force. Yuck!

So the McGoo household waned sickness from Saturday night through Wednesday/Thursday! No fun. Actually it was quite miserable to say the least.

But before the sickness unfolded, we spent Friday night at my company's awesome Christmas party - always a fun and festive occasion. I thought I'd share a few shots from that evening. Enjoy.

Before party pic at the casa

Boot wearing ladies of the party

The Dawsons - a few of our favs

Mr. McGoo was picked to be a "dancing" elf in a game we played!

Mr. McGoo learns the elf "will dance"

My fabulous friend - Shan

And to give you a better glimpse of the reality of my life... here is a typical progression in McGoo photos. My attempt was to get a photo together and it took this long to get a "good" result. He's a mess. See for yourself:

FINALLY!

Date Night

2011-12-09T09:37:00.000-06:00

Last Friday (Dec 2nd), Mr. McGoo invited me on a date. He planned it all and invited me to join him, at our home! I couldn't have been more thrilled to spend some quality time with my handsome man - all the while being home together, which is a rare event lately.

The Date Night included Mr. McGoo's homemade sweet and delicious chili, a fire, Christmas music, and holiday treats. It was perfect.

We enjoyed good conversation and quality time while cracking and opening pecans. We made chocolate covered pecans, sugar cookies, Reese's Peanut Butter Cup Temptations, and heavenly hash. We made and put up a simple Advent calendar on our refrigerator. Good stuff!

The most interesting part of the evening was the moment Mr. McGoo presented me with ROASTED CHESTNUTS. My response, I believe after I asked "what are those", was "those are actually real?" I never thought much more about them beyond singing the line in the Christmas song. They are real, however, and Mr. McGoo made some for me to try. I am thankful that I can say, I've had roasted chestnuts, but that's as far as I'm taking it. I'm not a fan of their taste.

Then I forced Mr. McGoo to pose by the fire with them - it seemed only fitting! :)

Roasted Chestnuts by the Open Fire - seriously!

A poor attempt to catch us and the tree

Dexter and me hanging out while talking to Mr. McGoo

Advent Calendar created for the frig

Thanksgiving

2011-12-01T10:51:00.000-06:00

I fell off the wagon with my "thankful for" posts... school and work and preparations for Thanksgiving travels became too much and something had to give... I chose the blog. It probably will continue to be that way for the most part until I get past my final check-off for school (2 final exams to go & one MAJOR skills check-off)... end date is Tuesday, December 13th. I'll be "free" for a couple weeks starting Wednesday, December 14th morning! Whoo hoo!

Thanksgiving was fabulous due to the fact that I completely unplugged for 4 days and had some quality time with Mr. McGoo. No internet connection and minimal technology. The days were composed of travel, family, food, fellowship, rest, fun, and reading.

I took the Wednesday before Thanksgiving off from work to use the time to clean house - something that had been neglected recently - and prepare for our travels to Lexington, KY. We left Memphis about 315pm with our buddy Steve and niece, Grace. Our time in KY was good and a needed break from the typical pace of Mr. McGoo and my life lately.

We really enjoyed visiting with family and having extra time with our niece. The highlight of the trip was taking Grace to tour part of Claiborne Farms. It was a really cool experience.

Some photos of our Thanksgiving adventures:

THANKFUL FOR My Study Group

2011-11-21T20:35:00.023-06:00

Without my study group, this photo above would be me... all the time. Seriously. Nursing school has so much information to retain and learn, and often in a short amount of time. Learning the material requires lots of time and without my study group of five folks counting me, I would be alone with a pile of books and a cup of coffee regularly.

Instead, I am joined with four other classmates regularly, talking through and hashing over all the concepts, body systems, and nursing skills we are taught. I am thankful for my study group. We lean on each other and teach each other along the way. Plus, this group sure makes nursing school more fun.

THANKFUL FOR Friends

2011-11-20T20:09:00.019-06:00

When times are busy, tough, and hard, the amazing blessing of friends comes more fully into focus. It's not doubt that Mr. McGoo and I have some wonderful friends.

We are blessed with some awesome people in our lives that we call friends! God regularly uses them to encourage us, challenge us, entertain us, love us, uplift us, pray for us, and enhance our daily life on this earth in many ways!!! We're so blessed! I am thankful for friends.

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12

Two are better than one,
   because they have a good return for their labor:
If either of them falls down,
   one can help the other up.
But pity anyone who falls
   and has no one to help them up.
Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm.
   But how can one keep warm alone?
Though one may be overpowered,
   two can defend themselves.
A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

THANKFUL FOR Kodi

2011-11-19T21:58:00.001-06:00

This morning we received some very hard and unexpected news. Our fur baby, Kodi passed away.

Mr. McGoo and I are so thankful for the time we had with Kodi. For 12 years, Kodi Bear has been my husband's greatest companion. For the less than 6 years that I've known Mr. McGoo, I've had Kodi within my life. The greatest of dogs.

I'm lacking words today, but know that I can say... I am thankful for Kodi. Thankful that the Lord blessed us with him and many great memories of his life with us.

Life in the McGoo house is going to be different without this alpha pup. It's proving to be a tough transition, but we're so thankful for his loyalty and friendship for so many years! This fur baby is one that will most definitely be missed!

To read the entire story of Kodi's passing and hear from Mr. McGoo, definitely check out his blog post about Kodi. Here.

THANKFUL FOR Fall Leaves

2011-11-18T21:38:00.017-06:00

With the changing of the seasons comes my favorite change of the year... the change of the leaves into beautiful colors of yellow and red. So peaceful. So beautiful.

I am thankful for the fall leaves.

THANKFUL FOR My Family

2011-11-17T19:00:00.031-06:00

I've mentioned it in a previous thankful for post that I love and am thankful for my parents. This is still fact, but I think I need to more fully extend the thankfulness. I am thankful for my family!

God has blessed me abundantly with an amazing support system in this group of 5, now 7 individuals. Dad, Mom, Middle sis- Robin, Youngest sis- Kelsey, Hubs- Mr. McGoo, and Brother in Law- Brent. They are all fabulous in their own special way.

I look forward to family time whenever I can get it. They can be a crazy bunch at times, and be careful when you get the Wilson ladies laughing, we can't breath and the high pitched nature of the tones coming from us definitely increase... but the men folk in good fashion simply shake their heads and smirk or laugh with us.

It's time for some updated photos - I will have to work on that this December - but for now... here are some fun ones from 2006 forward.

Family Cruise - 2006

Reba Concert Night - 2007

Hmmm... I think 2009 August Family Bday Celebration

July 2010 Family Vacation

And when I mention family, I cannot really stop at this group of 7... I am so blessed to have an amazing in-laws and extended family too! From grandparents to aunts to uncles to cousins and more on both my side and Mr. McGoo's... I grew up with tons of love and support. Now that I'm an "adult", I really enjoy spending time with these folks, even though the availability to do so is less frequent than we'd like.

I am thankful for my in-laws and extended family, too! Not everyone can say that - so I know I'm blessed!

THANKFUL FOR Healthy Family Rivalries

2011-11-16T12:50:00.025-06:00

They won't say it out loud, but my Uncle and my Hubby love each other. They enjoy many of the same things, sans golf, and frequently bond over electronic discussions, sports talk, tv shows, movie reviews, and everything in between. Putting this duo together can sometimes be bad news for the wives. They are truly a mess.

Ironically, one of their favorite past times is debating over UK vs KU. It's definitely a rivalry. They make me laugh and often shake my head as they debate and battle about which program is best. I am thankful for healthy family rivalries, never a dull moment.

THANKFUL FOR My Parents

2011-11-15T16:54:00.000-06:00

If Mr. McGoo and I are able to one day be half the parents my folks are, we will do alright. I love my parents. They have taught me so much throughout my life and I continue to learn from them!

For Christmas, my sisters and I decided to give an early gift to my folks. We paid for a photo shoot for them with the same photographer that did photos of us in 2009 that we gifted to my rents. You can see some of the fun shots from their shoot by going to the photographer's blog: http://katiedunlapphotography.com/blog/2011/11/l-c-32-years/

I am thankful for my parents. Aren't they super cute!?
Thanks Katie Dunlap Photography for capturing their awesomeness!

THANKFUL FOR Freedom

2011-11-14T18:30:00.000-06:00

This weekend we celebrated FREEDOM through the acknowledgement of Veterans Day - a day to thank all of the men and women who have served and continue to serve our country - and the Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church. It's so easy to take our freedom for granted.

On Sunday, Mr. McGoo and I woke up and went to church without any fear of being captured or found out by the authorities. We do not have to hide the Bibles in our home or worry about the Bible in my purse. We have the freedom to worship Jesus Christ with a multitude of believers. To sing His praises without fear.

I am thankful for freedom. I am thankful for the men and women who have fought for those freedoms.

I want to remember my brothers and sisters in Christ who are not living in a land of religious freedom. Men and woman who are courageous about their faith in Christ. Give them strength and perseverance, Lord!

THANKFUL FOR My Car

2011-11-13T16:02:00.000-06:00

Although it can be expensive keeping up with its needs and filling it with gas, my car is something to be thankful for. It's reliable and gets me from place to place with ease. I don't have to walk to work 22+ miles away, or journey on foot for food or water for hours. I do not have to think through the lacking public transportation schedule of Memphis when I want to go somewhere... when I need to get from point A to point B I jump in my vehicle and go.

I am thankful for my car. Now here's to hoping I remember that the next time it's in need of repair.

THANKFUL FOR Literacy

2011-11-12T15:37:00.002-06:00

I am a book lover. To curl up with a delicious cup of coffee and enjoy a good book is one of my favorite things to do.

I would not be able to enjoy this joy and pleasure without the ability to read, or literacy. It's such a blessing. Not only does it allow me to read for pleasure, but it opens up multiple doors through further education. I was blessed with parents that read to me as child. I grew up watching my mother enjoy reading... and I have fallen in her footsteps.

I am thankful for literacy. I do not want to take this gift for granted.

THANKFUL FOR The Forsaken Children

2011-11-11T16:09:00.018-06:00

The Lord used an organization called The Forsaken Children to rock Mr. McGoo and my world. This ministry works to care for, equip, and share the love of Christ with Ethiopia's children at risk. It's an awesome ministry.

If you have not gone to their website recently, definitely check it out because changes and additions have been made. Also, for those Facebook users out there, you can follow The Forsaken Children at http://www.facebook.com/theforsakenchildren.

I am thankful for The Forsaken Children. God used this ministry to capture my heart for a population of people greatly outside of my typical network of interaction. People He greatly loves and cares for immensely.

I bet He wants to do the same with you. Rock your world for people He loves outside of your comfort zone. Will you let Him? It may not be people in Africa or China or India, but it might be those in a town a few communities away or those living downtown.

Trust me, it's worth it!

THANKFUL FOR a Sense of Safety

2011-11-10T18:00:00.020-06:00

I was thinking about it the other day, how thankful I am that I do not have to be in a state of fear at my home or in my neighborhood. Throughout the city, the United States, and the world there are people that sleep in fear with one eye open or walk around with the uncertainty of harm to come. Always concerned, am I or my family next? There are neighborhoods that have regular drive by shooting issues, there are countries and villages that are in fear of slaughter by the rogue forces, and many more unstable situations all throughout the world.

I am so blessed. I do not live in this sense of fear and uncertainty when I am home or going from place to place in my community. I am thankful for a sense of safety and the ability to live without fear. I don't want to take that sense and feeling for granted.

THANKFUL FOR My Electric Blanket

2011-11-09T22:27:00.000-06:00

It's no secret that the McGoo house does not turn on their heat until late January, so the way this lady gets through the cold days and often colder house is with my electric blanket. I have an electric throw for the living room and an electric blanket for my bed. Both were gifts.

I am thankful for my electric blanket. It keeps me warm and toasty even if the house is like an igloo. Chilly Willy know what I'm talking about.

THANKFUL FOR the Clouds

2011-11-08T22:04:00.000-06:00

Rushing from work to let the furbabies out, only to rush to meet my advisor at school by 5pm and class at 6pm can get a little hectic... thankfully the Lord has blessed us with beautiful things called clouds. I am thankful for the clouds.

They speak of God's comfort and peace to me.

THANKFUL FOR Running Water

2011-11-07T21:20:00.000-06:00

I am thankful for running water!

THANKFUL FOR Time with My Man

2011-11-06T07:12:00.001-06:00

With our current work and school schedules, time with Mr. McGoo can be limited. This weekend, although it was in the middle of a many to dos, we were able to enjoy some time together Saturday and Sunday evenings.

Saturday we visited with friends to watch the Alabama vs. LSU football game. Good food, good company, good defensive football... we had a good time. It was nice to go do something social together.

Today after a long 5 hour kickball tournament journey - Go Underdogs - Mr. McGoo and I wrapped the night up with homemade dinner together and time vegging on the couch watching a few TV shows and going to bed early. Much needed for us both.

I am thankful for time with my man. I'm sure I'll be mushy and share a "thankful for my husband" post one day this month where I can brag on a few things I like about him. Until then, I'll just say that I'm blessed to spend time with him.

THANKFUL FOR My Health

2011-11-05T08:29:00.014-05:00

Today I had my first clinical rotation at the hospital. I was able to touch, feel, talk, assist, and work with my first patient. It was an eye opening experience. I still have lots to learn but I couldn't have asked for a better first patient.

Being at the hospital for 6 hours, reminded me how blessed I am for my health. There are many who are battling illness on a daily basis, and I am currently very healthy. I am thankful for my health! I do not want to take that/it for granted because it is not guaranteed.

Thank you Lord for being the healer you are! I pray for those I touched and saw Saturday. Comfort them, their families, and give the medical staff around them wisdom as they care for them. Amen.

THANKFUL FOR Small Happys

2011-11-04T17:15:00.000-05:00

I'm enjoying this THANKFUL FOR "series" on the blog. It's requiring me to think through things that I'm thankful for and the many ways I am so blesesd.

I was surprised today at the office by a quick visit from my youngest sis and fabulous mom. I needed it today - so it was perfect timing.

Besides giving me a smile by just coming to say hi, they dropped off a little happy for me. I am thankful for small happys. You know, those small things that don't cost much but cause you to smile.

This little guy is solar powered and bobs his head from side to side and moves his body from side to side. It puts a smile on my face every time I glance at it to the right of my computer screen.

THANKFUL FOR My House

2011-11-03T12:45:00.000-05:00

I woke up this morning, stretched out in my comfy bed and leisurely made my way to let the furbabies out for a potty break. As I opened the back door I was greeted with the chill of the morning and the wetness of the rain that had fallen while I was comfortably asleep in my bed, under the roof of my home. It hit me... I was completely oblivious to the chill and the rain while in my house - a luxury many people in this world do not have and too often I take for granted. This thought brought two emotions simultaneously... I ached for my friends in Ethiopia and others around the world, and even in my own city that are without a roof over their heads in the rain and chill of the night... and at the same time I smiled for my blessings and thought, I am thankful for my house.

Although it might be considered modest by some in the United States, Mr. McGoo and I are abundantly blessed with our house. It's perfect for us and has room for us to grow in it as a family one day.

To give some perspective of how blessed we are... When we described our home to our Ethiopian friends, Nega and Emu this past December, they were shocked to hear that someone would own a 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, 2 living rooms, a kitchen, laundry room, and office for just 2 people. I remember them looking at us with inquisitive eyes, saying "for just two?". Really, why would we need anymore? Thankful for our blessings!

THANKFUL FOR My Job

2011-11-02T16:57:00.001-05:00

As with everyone, I imagine... there are days when my jobs adds stress or frustration to my day. Nevertheless, I am very thankful for my job.

I am blessed with a steady paycheck. A great employer. Good coworkers that care about me and my family. And a daily job to go to five days a week that the Lord uses to provide for Mr. McGoo and my every need.

THANKFUL FOR a Relentless God

2011-11-01T07:00:00.002-05:00

Can you believe that November is upon us? I'm not quite sure where October went, I think I blinked and missed most of it, but November is definitely here!

Considering how the Lord has blessed me beyond measure, I want to take the entire month to daily note something I am thankful for... starting with today.

I am thankful for a relentless God!
The Lord knows how my heart and mind becomes so easily distracted and misleading. He knows that when I'm left on my own, I am weary, wandering, and often going the wrong way. But He does not leave me. I do not have to do it on my own! He chases me... He comes after me relentlessly. I'm thankful for that!

We sang this song on Sunday and I cannot shake the words... the keep resonating in my heart and mind this week. Thank you Lord for your relentlessness!

What is something you're thankful for today?

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T17:15:00.000-05:00

We do something really cool at my office for Halloween. In addition to a costume contest for the employees (bragging rights only), we decorate the entire building and use the last hour of our allotted Halloween Day to invite the children, grand children, nieces and nephews of all the employees to come Trick-of-Treat through our offices and cubicles. This year it was Friday, October 28th.

I always look forward to the new and adorable costumes all of kiddos sport while they enjoy collecting the many treats we have for them. It's a cool time and another example of how my employer makes a focus and care for the families of all of my coworkers. A blessing, indeed.

My cubicle is the 3rd on the left

Loving on the Little Pumpkin - Baby Dawson

This Year's Costumes

The Queen of Hearts and her "Card Army"

This year's costume winner - THE QUEEN OF HEARTS!

Happy Halloween!

TFC Blog: Why Sports Ministry?

2011-10-26T07:00:00.000-05:00

My hubs helps post on The Forsaken Children blog also. He recently posted a great write up about the importance and potential of Sports Ministry in Ethiopia. Take a look. I've given you a snippet here... you can read the entire post by clicking the title link or the ellipses that follow. Enjoy.

Why Sports Ministry?
By Mr. McGoo, Sports Ministry Coordinator

Can you imagine living on the streets and sleeping on an unforgiving dirt sidewalk? Imagine that every night you sleep on the streets you have to keep one eye lid open just to protect yourself from potential violence.

Now imagine kids living like that. What would they do? How would they protect themselves? [. . .]

Dinner & Corn Maze

2011-10-25T09:32:00.000-05:00

This past weekend, I was able to find some time away from school and books and enjoy a few moments with my hubs and an opportunity to serve.

Saturday night Mr. McGoo and I went on a date with my rents. It was a much needed mental break after a full day of school. Yummy dinner, good company, great conversation, and dessert to follow. We had fun. I'm realizing that lately I do not take many pics, so I wanted to be sure to catch a self portrait of Mr. McGoo and I before we left the house. Once upon a time, I took photos ALL THE TIME, lately it's been very few and far between.

Handsome Mr. McGoo and me

On Sunday afternoon post church and before I hit the books again, I went with the Wings of Faith ministry at church to The Memphis Corn Maze at Our Family Farm. It was so fun! I wish Mr. McGoo could have gone with us because he would have really enjoyed it too (he was working)! The group ate lunch together and hung out for awhile before heading to the Corn Maze. We took a hayride over to the opening of the maze and then split into two groups. Each group went through the maze and worked to see what group could get out the quickest. My team won, but no thanks to me... I just followed everyone else and took photos along the way.

If you haven't been to The Memphis Corn Maze at Our Family Farm, I definitely recommend it. Take your family, friends, etc. We had a ton of fun!

Corn Maze photo op and typical goofy me

The group that went through the maze the quickest - We're #1

Gobble Wobble

2011-10-24T13:40:00.000-05:00

While at the yogurt shop, YoLo's on Saturday evening with my hubs and rents, I came upon this:

So by my calculations, I have 20 days until race day. I haven't worked out since my last race day on September 5th - Labor Day. I use the term "race" loosely because I was not moving very quickly, but at least finished.

I'm crazy enough to plan on participating in this one to a) give me a goal to "make" me start working out again, b) run with a nursing school classmate that is interested in doing a 5k, and c) challenge myself once again.

Gobble Wobble.

Recognize & Proclaim

2011-10-21T12:11:00.001-05:00

The concluding line to The Meaning of Life post by Kelly Levatino is resonating in me and with me today! Lord help me! A constant reminder that it is NOT about me!

"Recognize His power, and proclaim His name. This is the meaning of life."

Follow the links above to the full blog post - it's definitely worth a read.

What about Today?

2011-10-20T11:00:00.000-05:00

It's so easy to get caught up in the constant look ahead mindset, the anxious await of the "next step". So easy to let ~~your~~ my heart ask "what's next?", "when this", "when then", in a way that has me looking past today and only looking at tomorrow - or often even further down the road. Too often ~~we as Americans~~ I find myself on the "next step" thought process of life to the degree that it causes me to miss the current place and space God has me in.

Our Father knew we I would do this... He put verses within in His Word that speak directly to this tendency of my heart and mind. (Matthew 6:25-34, Philippians 4:6-7 are just a few off the top of my head). Verses that remind us me to not worry, to not be anxious, and to stay within today in my thought process not looking too far ahead in a way that causes me to miss what He has for me today!

He wants to do something in me, through me today! In this place. In this space. Right now. Wherever I am. Not when the next phase of life begins. Not when the next step arrives, because my heart will then jump into the phase after that. He has something for me in this time. Right now.

You know the thought process... You've heard it or had it asked in your own mind or heart. I know I have been there. Some examples... You're single and you think or others ask "when will you date someone?" Then you date someone and your heart or others ask "when wil ya'll get engaged?". Then "when will you get married", then "when will you have kids", "when will you retire", "when will you....". Or the other terminology for the same questions, "When I do this" or "When I do that" then I'll really will be where I want to be, I will have what I need, etc.

Does that make sense?

As a nursing school student, it is really easy right now to look ahead in a way that causes me to miss the awesomeness He has for me right now! I can look at my graduation date 22 months in the future (I hope!) in a way that is unhealthy and causes me to miss the current moment. Although reminding myself that the end date of school is tangible can be encouraging to me, making that my only focus causes me to miss the now and what I can do in the current moment for His kingdom! What does God want me to see, do, and experience now in this current place?

Similarly, I have a heart and passion for The Forsaken Children ministry in Ethiopia. I'm blessed to have an opportunity to serve the organization currently as a board member, but there is part of my that longs for my next return to Ethiopia to serve on the ground, to get dirty, and to encourage my fellow Ethiopian brothers and sisters. But instead of constantly thinking "when is my next journey" or "what's my next step with Ethiopia", I should recognize that the Lord has me here, at home, in Memphis for a purpose - regardless of how long it is until my next journey to Ethiopia. The questions should be, how does He want me to advance the ministry and His kingdom here, in this place?

So I don't know if this thought process resonates with you, but I'm being reminded that God has me here for a reason. For His glory and for my drawing near to Him. He is more concerned with my today than my tomorrow. I should follow suit, He'll take care of the rest. "And who knows but that you have come to [this place] royal position for such a time as this?" Esther 4:14

What does God want to do with your today?! Are you asking Him?

Old Woman with My Nose Stuck in a Book

2011-10-17T12:37:00.001-05:00

My weekend bounced between being "old woman" like and having "my nose stuck in a book". That's the life I currently lead. Although Mr. McGoo still has a wife in her twenties for another year, the energetic until the wee hours, stay up late woman he dated no longer exists.

Friday night I had to fore go the Southwind High School football game with Mr. McGoo. Instead, I sent him on his own to cheer for our buddy, James and enjoy another night with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes crew of Central Church. I stayed behind at the house and worked on school preparations for Saturday. I took the opportunity to get a photo of my ever entertaining Friday Night event, studying the Clinical Nursing Skills I would practice on Saturday - injections: intradermal, subcutaneous, and intramuscular. Once I completed the read through of those skills (my nose stuck in a book), I ate some mac'n'cheese for dinner and headed to bed by 930pm (hence the old woman like comment).

Saturday I woke early and was out the door by 715am for class. In addition to the injection skills we would learn and practice that day, we were going to be checked off on our Sterile Urinary Cather skill. This was our very first official check-off of "Basic Skills" and the anticipation of what was to come had everyone anxious. Thankfully I completed the procedure in a satisfactory manner (not breaking sterile technique throughout) and was able to breath a sigh of relief. My entire study group - five of us total - were able to smile and say "we did it" following the lab and classroom hours of the day. It was a good feeling. I almost took a photo of me in my ~~awesome~~ required white scrubs to celebrate my victory, but I decided I didn't want that on the web for all to see.

I arrived home around 2:45pm, getting out of class 45 minutes earlier than normal to find (as expected, I knew they were coming) Mr. McGoo with a few buddies enjoying college football. Mr. McGoo had chili in the crock pot and the cool breeze of the Memphis October day was blowing through the house. What a perfect treat on an afternoon post full day of school. I cleaned up and took my seat in the living room. For the next five hours I enjoyed football with my hubby and friends. I was pampered by Mr. McGoo - allowing me to sit and rest while he provided and served me beverages, chips and dip, chili, and dessert. Yup, he is a keeper!!!

By 8pm (uh, oh, the old lady thing again), I could not keep my eyes open longer than a few minutes at a time, so I excused myself from the guys and made my way to the bedroom. There I curled up for an episode of Criminal Minds before falling into my full night's slumber around 9pm. I'm happy to say I got 10 hours of rest Saturday night - something that has not happened lately! It was perfect.

Sunday, Mr. McGoo and I went to church, enjoyed a lunch date with friends, and made our way home. We filled the afternoon and evening with quality time on the couch watching football and completing school assignments (nose stuck in a book). It was leisurely and a perfect afternoon together, as far as afternoons full of school work can be - Mr. McGoo catered to me while I completed school stuff and worked to get ahead of the game in order to have a less stressful week ahead.

So this "old lady" was well taken care of this weekend. I'm well rested and ready to tackle another week of work, school, and everything in between. Thankful for the time with Mr. McGoo and the opportunity to get some much needed rest this weekend!

Something New: A Whole Lotta Bean Soup

2011-10-14T16:33:00.000-05:00

(some say 15, some 16 - I'll say a whole lotta)

Mr. McGoo and I gave this little slow cooker recipe a try last week... not too shabby, I liked it. Mr. McGoo liked it but said it was a bit on the bland side. I think it had something to do with us not using Italian turkey sausage but smoked turkey sausage instead. Next time we'll add a bit more seasoning to give it a little more taste and kick and use the suggested Italian sausage instead. I have half of this recipe in the freezer so I'll be sure to add more seasoning to that as it reheats before serving.

Ingredients:

    * 1 package 16 Bean Soup - I grabbed a bag of 15bean soup
    * 3 bay leaves
    * 1 tablespoon crushed oregano
    * 2 cans no-fat chicken stock
    * Additional water to cover
    * 3 stalks celery chopped
    * 3 carrots diced
    * 1 large onion chopped
    * 3 cloves garlic sliced
    * 1 pound turkey Italian sausage sliced
    * 2 cans stewed (or diced) tomatoes

Preparation:
Combine first 5 ingredients (liquid should cover mixture 1 to 2 inches) in slow cooker. Cover and cook on HIGH for 3 hours, or until beans are tender. Add remaining ingredients and decrease temperature to low; cook for additional 3 to 4 hours. If desired, add cayenne or crushed red pepper when adding second set of ingredients. Serve as complete meal or over rice. Freezes well.

Book Corner: The Tangible Kingdom

2011-10-12T17:01:00.001-05:00

Somewhere in the middle of the madness I currently call life, I am reading a book with some friends who have a heartbeat for seeing followers of Christ be the hands and feet of Jesus to those around us. Friends who yearn to follow God in a tangible, radical way that points those around us to Jesus.

The book we're reading, a few chapters every couple weeks is The Tangible Kingdom: The Posture and Practices of Ancient Church Now by Hugh Halter and Matt Smay.

It definitely has me thinking and talking to God about my walk, my witness, and my role as a believer and follower of Christ Jesus.

Here are a few quotes from the book:

"Church must not be the goal of the gospel anymore. Church should not be the focus of our efforts or the banner we hold up to explain what we're about. Church should be what ends up happening as a natural response to people wanting to follow us, be with us, and be like us as we are following the way of Christ." - pg. 30.

"Posture is important because it can either obscure the message of truth or enhance and pave the way for a clear rendering of the truth. In North America, people don't have any sense of the true Christian message any more because the face of that message looks so unlike the founder. Christianity is now almost impossible to explain, not because the concepts aren't intelligible, but because the living, moving, speaking examples of our faith don't line up with the message. Our poor posture overshadows the most beautiful story and reality the world has ever known." pg. 41.

I want to be more like Jesus and I want to glorify Him! I'm learning more and more that it will not happen without getting to know Him further in His word and regularly meeting with Him. He is the source of all I need.

365 days until 30

2011-10-06T10:00:00.002-05:00

My 29th birthday was yesterday and I was blessed with many sweet birthday wishes and reminders of how blessed I am! I'm blessed with an awesome family, great friends, a home, a job, the ability to go back to school (yes, that too is a blessing even when sometimes it doesn't feel like it), an amazing husband, etc, etc, etc.

In honor of my birthday I was able to take an exam last night (fun fun) and then sit through a lecture following, so by the time I got home at 9:30pm, there was little opportunity for celebration.

Mr. McGoo however did not let the moment pass... and it turned into my favorite part of the day.... my birthday meal! Mr. McGoo sang "Happy Birthday" to me after he prepared our meal and let me blow out a birthday candle and all.

Check it out:

Birthday Grilled Cheese

I was definitely spoiled yesterday in words, well wishes, and even some gifts from folks. My favorite birthday card came from a fabulous blogger you may know - if you don't, be sure to check her out here... Kelly is a coffee loving fool like me and may actually take my coffee loving into an obsession. We regularly enjoy "coffee dates" together at Starbucks, so this card could not have been more perfect! I laughed out loud when I read it and wanted to share.

Thanks again for the love everybody. I'm blessed beyond measure, indeed!

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
Two are better than one,
   because they have a good return for their labor:
If either of them falls down,
   one can help the other up.
But pity anyone who falls
   and has no one to help them up.
Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm.
   But how can one keep warm alone?
Though one may be overpowered,
   two can defend themselves.
A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

Something New: Homestyle Apple Brown Betty

2011-10-01T06:00:00.000-05:00

And what's better with a good meal than a great dessert. This yummy treat was super easy and makes me look forward to cool, crisp days that need a warm treat! Give it a try.

Homestyle Apple Brown Betty

Ingredients

6 cups cooking apples, peeled, cored, and cut into eighths
1 cup bread crumbs
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup butter or margarine, melted
1/4 cup finely chopped walnuts - I used pecans

Directions

Coat crock pot slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
Place apples in bottom.
Combine bread crumbs, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, brown sugar, butter, and walnuts.
Cover; cook on low 3 to 4 hours or on high for 2 hours.

Makes 8 servings

Something New: Chicken Tortilla Soup

2011-09-30T07:30:00.000-05:00

In light of all the time and attention school is demanding these days, I thought it would be important that I add some crock pot recipes to my repertoire. The ability to prep before work and have a meal available and ready for Mr. McGoo and I later is a great thing. Takes some planning, but once you throw everything in it's pretty much complete.

Chicken Tortilla Soup

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs - I used 2 chicken breasts instead
1 4-oz can chopped green chiles (hot or mild, depending on preference)
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 yellow onion, diced
2 15-oz cans of diced tomatoes
1 cup of chicken broth
1 teaspoon cumin
salt and pepper
4 corn tortillas, sliced into 1/4 inch strips
2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
1/2 cup shredded Monterrey jack cheese

Directions

Place chicken in crock pot slow cooker.
In a separate bowl, combine chiles, garlic, onion, tomatoes, 1/2 cup chicken broth and cumin. Blend and pour over chicken.
Cook on low for 6.5 hours. When chicken is tender, use the tines of two forks to shred. Adjust seasoning and add additional chicken broth.
Just before serving, put tortilla strips in the oven at 225 degrees for 10-15minutes until slightly made firm.
Add tortilla strips into soup, stir to incorporate. Leave a few tortilla strips to add as topper.
Serve in soup bowls, topping each with shredded cheese.

Serves 4-6
Size 3-6 quarts

National Coffee Day

2011-09-29T12:40:00.000-05:00

Happy National Coffee Day!

Enjoy a cup of buna (Amharic for coffee) today!

Here is something to ponder over your next cup of jo - something that got my wheels turning and heart aching last night....

How do we invite people within the south, who have been overloaded with a religious culture ("Bible Belt" mentally) that causes many to think Jesus=religion-rules-dos&donts-judgments-legalism, rather than the real invitation of the Gospel to be in relationship with our Savior who challenges everything about religion???

I find myself thinking about Brennan Manning's book The Ragamuffin Gospel as I re-read my inquire above and then those thoughts led me back to this post from 2009 that relates.

Happy National Coffee Day!

Love this Guy

2011-09-28T14:05:00.000-05:00

Met the hubs at an impromptu lunch today and helped him pick out some new slacks and a few shirts. I love this guy! It was a perfect break from a busy day at the office.

Busy Girl

2011-09-27T16:36:00.000-05:00

As you can tell by the lack of posts, blogging isn't taking a current priority in my life. Truth is - it's not an option. I'd love to have the opportunity to hash out some stuff in type more regularly, verbally vomiting for anyone that happens to come upon the blog, but right now I'm doing my best to tread water.

I'm staying afloat, and working to accomplish all that I can without drowning myself. Nursing school plus a full time job, a husband, a home, a life involved with ministry, and everything in between keeps a girl busy.

Part of the lesson I'm relearning (yes, I have to "learn" this lesson over and over, I'm that stubborn) during this stage of life is the obvious reality: I CANNOT DO IT ALL.

I know it might shock you, note the sarcasm, but for me that's not an easy reality to learn. I'm a "get the job done" kind of person... what needs to be done? Let's do it... and it's humbling to be reminded I can't, as much as I would like to try, do it all! Doing it "all" isn't an option right now and actually should never be! The times I attempt to do it all are the same moments I rely on myself instead of my Jesus.

However this realization of not being able to do it all or all on my own is paving the way for me to lean on others a bit more than I normally do. It's a humbling process but also a real blessing when so many people step up to the plate and love me well, pray for me, and assist along the way. See God's teaching me through all this!

One thing the craziness of my school and work schedule with life scattered in between has brought into clear view again is how blessed I am to have Mr. McGoo. He's a rockstar! Seriously! He's been so helpful in helping me keep the house clean, feed me, run necessary errands, remind me to take one day at a time, cook, grocery shop, etc. He has been beyond awesome in this new stage of school/work craziness for me! Thanks hubs!

Tonight I have my first exam of the trimester in my Basic Skills of Nursing class. Then back to the books to complete the assignments at hand. One day at a time.

Book Corner: When Helping Hurts

2011-09-16T09:21:00.000-05:00

As hoped and planned, I completed my most current read, Cutting for Stone ~~before~~ a few days after my fall trimester of nursing school began. All 650+ pages were read and like my mother assumed, I enjoyed it. The book was set in Ethiopia, for the most part, and the main character was in the health care profession - two things my life is currently focused on! I most enjoyed realizing I knew many of the medical terms used and situations described, and felt a longing to be back in Ethiopia as I read about many cultural realities of that country presented in the book. Thanks mom for the suggestion and provision of the book. A good, non-thinking read to tackle on "break".

Now with school FULLY underway... more so than I've ever known it to be, the reality is that reading outside of my textbooks is going to be VERY limited. Nevertheless, the "to be read" category of my bookshelf is LARGE and even more, I REALLY want to read them.

So, my newest read will definitely take me awhile... digesting chapter by chapter as I find the time in between school responsibilities.

WHEN HELPING HURTS:

How to Alleviate Poverty
Without Hurting the Poor and Yourself

By Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert

This book was suggested by The Forsaken Children director, JB. Last night I tackled everything leading up to Chapter 1. The back of the book is self described to

"reveal the painful truth about poverty. But it does more than tell you what not to do. The book moves from foundational concepts about poverty (Who are the poor?), to principles (Should we do relief, rehabilitation, or development?), to strategies (How can we help the poor domestically? Internationally?). When Helping Hurts guides you toward a true understanding of poverty and a plan to make a difference."

As a board member for The Forsaken Children, a larger understanding of what can help and what can hurt the people our ministry longs to partner with, along with a constant pursuit of what God desires of us and is calling us to, is essential. I am looking forward to gaining a new perspective and further insight into Kindgom building within a community that is physically poor as well as spiritually poor, and showing them the Love and Hope of Jesus Christ in a more healthy and productive way!

One Day

2011-09-12T12:01:00.001-05:00

I'm reflecting on two specific verses of the Bible today:

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Phil 4:6-7)

Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. (Matthew 6:34)

Saturday, I was thrown into the real world of nursing school. Thus far, my "nursing school" career has been smooth sailing. I'm a task oriented, to do list kind of gal, so adding school into the mix of life isn't ultimately difficult for me. I make my mind up to get the job done and crank it out. However, little did I know, (okay, I knew, but I didn't KNOW!) I had not yet begun the real deal.

Saturday was my wake-up call and reality check. For my classmates too. We're nights and weekend students, meaning the majority of us are including nursing school on top of a 40 hour week at work, family responsibilities, and anything else we have in our lives. Saturday I sat in my class (8am-315pm) and got the reality check that my world is about to flipped upside down for two years. There is much to be done. And with the panic that attempted to settle in, I stopped and reminded myself, I can do this. One day at a time.

So here I am, two days later, as the work load and time commitment ahead begins to settle in... as I begin to schedule what a "normal" week will need to look like in order to accomplish the many tasks at hand.

As my flesh begins to do what it wants to do, I'm working to battle it. Reflecting and praying over Phillipians 4:6-7 and Matthew 6:34.

One day at a time. That's where I'm really at and where God wants me to rest with Him. One day at a time.

Life has now been reduced to 3 month intervals. Accomplish now until mid December and breath. Accomplish January to mid April and breath... etc.

I'm thankful I do not do this alone. Besides my mighty God that walks with me each day, giving me the strength I need, I have a fabulous hubby that is my teammate, working through all of this with me. In addition, I'm blessed with an amazing family and friend base that is already cheering me on.

Beginning today. One day at a time.

3.1

2011-09-09T09:41:00.000-05:00

Labor Day weekend went by with a swirl, but I definitely enjoyed the extra time with Mr. McGoo. We had a complete football day on Saturday, with multiple guys vegging at my house from noon until late after 10pm. And the cool whispered air of fall began to creep into Memphis, getting me excited about sweatshirt weather to come.

One of the main events of the Labor Day weekend was my run in the Chick fil A 5k on Monday morning, Labor Day. As past posts throughout August have noted, I've been attempting to get back in shape and remind my body what it felt like to be "fit". I'm far from it, but running the 5k Monday was a move in the right direction.

Below is a photo of me and my accountability partner for the run, Kimberly. It was a cool, brisk September morning on Monday. The wind was blowing like crazy, but overall, minus the pain of pushing further than I have in a long while, the event was fabulous.

I ran a snails pace, but I completed all 3.1 miles - almost a mile further than what I had run throughout August to "prepare". The 2.3 mile or so marker came right at a hill... talk about having to push through it. I'm not particularly proud of my time, remembering what I use to run when I was fit, but I'm proud of completing the run and stepping out to do something uncomfortable. Ran the 3.1 miles in 32:38, a 10:32 mile pace (told you it was slow).

Here is a photo of Kimberly and I at the finish, which rounded into the Redbirds Autozone Park. Our hubbies came down to the event to be our drivers and cheerleaders.

The rest of this week has been full with the beginning of a new trimester with school. The next few weeks will be the juggling act of figuring out my new schedule and learning what the McGoo routine look like this fall. I think both Mr. McGoo and I are looking forward to what God has in store.

2 Chronicles 20:12

2011-08-31T09:46:00.002-05:00

"We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.”

Go Jaguars!

2011-08-29T10:22:00.000-05:00

Our Friday night this weekend, and the Friday nights to come until November, was filled with Friday Night Football, Southwind High style!

Mr. McGoo and I have the pleasure of being a part of our church's partnership with Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) and Southwind High School Football. Through this partnership we have built a friendship with one of the players on the team, James and are enjoying getting to know him, encouraging him, and cheering for him and the team weekly.

This Friday we went to the game against Sheffield High and then hung out with James and some of the players at Buffalo Wild Wings after the game!

Here a few pics from Friday night.

Go Jaguars!

Mr. McGoo and James - too cool for smiles

James getting a Fantasy Football lesson from the Living Legends

Mr. McGoo challenged Senior "Booker" to an arm wrestling match

hilarious! Mr. McGoo is a big kid at heart!

And I'm diggin Southwind High colors - GO PURPLE!

Something New: Kentucky Derby Pie

2011-08-26T09:45:00.000-05:00

I asked Mr. McGoo Tuesday afternoon, "What do you want for your birthday dessert Thursday night?" I knew better. I've been married to this man for 4.5 years now, I know what he likes and I should have thought through those desserts, chosen one I was comfortable making and just presented it to him Thursday rather than taking requests. Knowing my husband, I should know better.

Mr. McGoo's answer, "Kentucky Derby Pie".

This is where I interject in the story that I am not a cook. I cook, but I'm not a cook. I bake, but I bake things out of boxes where you add water, oil, and/or eggs. I'm not a baker, and I have certainly never attempted a pie - a Kentucky Derby Pie at that. Oh boy.

Unable to turn down the challenge, I guess, I got to work "Google'ing" recipes for a Kentucky Derby Pie. I found one and quickly passed it by, but the second recipe I found seemed like something I could attempt, so that's what I did.

So before I share the experience, let me give you the source. I found the recipe on this blog.

Ingredients:

1 stick butter
1 cup sugar
2 eggs, beaten
1/2 cup flour
pinch of salt
2 Tbsp. Ky Bourbon OR 1 tsp. vanilla
1 cup chocolate chips
1 cup chopped pecans
1 9-inch pie shell, partially baked (or I actually used graham cracker crust)

I was intent on making 2 pies. One with Kentucky Bourbon and one with Vanilla. To help reduce my stress level (because I'm prone to stress during new cooking adventures), I went ahead and measured out all ingredients times two and set them out before I began the process. It was very helpful and colorful too when you have Fiesta Ware.

What to do:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Cream butter and sugar
Add beaten eggs, flour, salt and Kentucky bourbon (or vanilla)
Add chocolate chips and nuts
Stir well
Pour into partially baked pie shell
TIP: Put the pie(s) onto a cookie sheet to catch any possible dripping, or bubbling over of the ingredients (I learned this one the hard way, explained below).
Bake for 30 minutes, or until center is set
Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream or completely by itself!

My experience:
The process of preparing the pies was a piece of cake. As I mentioned before the pre-measuring of ingredients really helped. I didn't have to think about it as I read the recipe and added the ingredients each step of the way. The "problems" began when I put the pies into the oven.

After about 5 minutes of oven time, Mr. McGoo and I smelled something burning. At that moment, the recipe ingredients FLASHED before my eyes. It read "PARTIALLY BAKED PIE CRUST" not pre-made like I thought and purchased. I bought the pre-made ready to eat or bake graham cracker crust. Automatically I assumed the crust was burning and I had 25 minutes plus to go. I ran to the oven, opened up the door and smoke flew out. I panicked, thinking "my crust"...

However, the burning and smoke had nothing to do with the crust... it was the spillover of the pies causing the issue. I did not know that a cookie sheet underneath a pie is essential. Without it, the bubbling and spillover of the pies falls onto the eyes of the oven = burning. I removed the pies immediately and placed them on a cookie sheet before putting them back into the oven. The only thing to do now was wait... wait to see if the pies could make it through this without coming out smelling & tasting like smoke and ultimately check at the end to make sure the pie crust that I purchased incorrectly was able to survive.

Wait....

Once I took the pies out of the oven they looked fabulous as seen here to the left... but considering the time (after 11pm at this point), I knew I would be unable to check the crust until morning.

Morning came, I checked the crust and everything looked okay. The true test would be that night when the dessert is served for Mr. McGoo's birthday in front of a large group.

Result: Everyone loved it! I thought it could have been cooked a little more to make the insides a little less gooy, but none of our guests complained. The taste was fantastic and delicious. Per Mr. McGoo's request this pie will be made again and again in our household. Next time I'll put the cookie sheet down in the beginning, but I will still use that delicious graham cracker crust!

Enjoy!

Mr. McGoo's Birthday

2011-08-25T10:40:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday to my fabulous and

wonderful husband, Mr. McGoo!

I cannot imagine life without him. God blessed me beyond measure with this guy and truly gave me the desires of my heart, even beyond what I realized my true desires were.

Here's a picture from his 31st birthday! We were just dating then! Cannot believe how quickly five years has gone. I love serving the Lord with this man and being his teammate.

We're a team, honey! I love you! Happy Birthday!

Happy Bday Author of Kee Creative!

2011-08-25T09:55:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday to my great and

awesomely talented sister, Robin!

Sis, you're not even close to being aware of how talented you are! I'm thankful for you, as God has blessed me with a rock star family! It has been so cool to see how God has been specifically working in and through you over the last several years - constantly making you a better sister and wife! You're more than my sister, you're my friend!

Wishing you a fabulous birthday. Hate that I'm not close enough in geography to give you a big hug for your day, but am confident that your wonderful hubby will take good care of you!

Love you! Happy Birthday!

Ps. Folks, if you ever want some design inspiration, challenges, or are in the mood to read some witty narration, check out my sisters blog: http://keecreative.blogspot.com/ . You will not be disappointed.

Feelin the Burn 2

2011-08-24T12:30:00.001-05:00

We have t-minus 12 days until "race" day.

So I thought I'd give an update on how my "training" or back to working out progress is going. I've really tried to take advantage of not having school two nights a week (about to be 3 times a week starting next month) by getting myself back into the workout routine and pushing towards getting back in shape. So far I've worked out six times since I began this quest (Thursday, August 11th).

Here is what I've done so far:

First run (Thursday, 8/11) - less than 1.5 miles, long walk & stretch after
1 hr spin class (Saturday, 8/13) - got my sisters to come with me
1 hr spin class (Monday, 8/15)
1 hr Bodycombat class (Thursday, 8/18) - more on that below
1.8 mile run, long walk & stretch after (Sunday, 8/21)
1 hr "Team Training" (Tuesday, 8/23) - more on that below

I'm feeling better and making progress every step of the way. But I definitely feel the burn. The body is asking me what I'm doing to it, but I can tell the muscles VAGUELY remember what they once were, so there is a little pep to my step to continue. Well, actually I'm lying if I say there is "pep" in my step today, I'm actually walking like an old woman as I work the soreness out from last night. But I digress.

So what do I mean by "Bodycombat" class, huh? Here is the gym's description:

BODYCOMBAT™ - Infused with a wide array of martial arts disciplines (karate, tae kwon do, tai chi, kickboxing, and muay thai), BODYCOMBAT is not for the meek. Kick, strike, and punch your way to superb physical condition. Moderate to high fitness levels are welcome.

I could definitely tell this class gave me a full body workout. I punched and kicked and blocked and moved in ways that I do not normally and it used my own body weight all throughout. It was up-tempo and entertaining, not monotonous at all. As long as I continued to "get over" the fact that I looked silly and did not do the moves in the most coordinated fashion, I really liked it. I chose to watch the instructor instead of seeing myself in a mirror - I distracted myself otherwise. I think I'll be back if my schedule allows.

So what about "Team Training" at the gym last night, well I'm definitely paying for it. Muscles within my body that I never knew existed are aching. Nevertheless I like this kind of burn - even if I'm walking around like an old woman - it reminds me that I'm working out again and pushing myself. It's a group style "class" that has a circuit training like process to it. After warm-up it's 45 minutes of hard core movements - you can push as hard as you're able, and rest as much as needed throughout reps - doing it at your own pace. Granted if you stand around forever, the trainer there is going to instruct and push! We did lunges, squats, wall sits, push ups, tricep pulls, bicep pulls, abdominal work, you name it - the muscle was worked. If it didn't cost more than my typical gym membership, I'd be all over it once a week.

All that to say, I'm on my way. Hopefully I'll be able to move a little more normally by Saturday am and get back to the gym with a Sunday morning run in store before church. T-minus 12 days until I'm "called" to run 3.1 miles. Thankfully I have a good running partner. She's letting me take it slow, but is also capable of running for days - she'll push me.

In other news... after getting home last night from the gym and grocery shopping for the ingredients for Mr. McGoo's birthday dessert he requested (blog post to come on that later), I came home and put up the groceries, fed the dogs, and took out the trash. Ummmm, I never made it back into the house after that until Mr. McGoo returned home at 930pm or so. For 2 hours I was locked out of my house. The furbabies were totally confused - - mom went out of the house with a bag and never came back. It was hot and I have some mosquito bites to show for it, but I did enjoy an hour long conversation with one of our fabulous neighbors.

Always something. ;)

On Mission

2011-08-22T18:47:00.001-05:00

The other day I was asked if I have some feedback on primary myths that many church people have concerning missions.

For example:
Missions is just about reaching people overseas in Africa.
Only certain people are called to missions.

I focused mostly on the second example myth that "only certain people are called to missions" when I answered. Here is what I was thinking:

Often times when people use the wording "I'm not called" they are really saying in churchy wording "I don't FEEL like it". Throughout the Bible the Lord tells us to be self-controlled, this includes our emotions... they are not truth, they are often our fleshly reaction to something rather than a Biblical response.

With that in mind, just because we do not FEEL like doing something doesn't mean we're not supposed to do it. God says to GO (Matthew 28), and therefore we should obey and go. It's not about going overseas or not, although some will gain a burden for people groups outside of their own. It's more about obedience and serving the least of these (Matthew 25), serving and loving our neighbors (Matthew 22), serving and loving our enemies (Matthew 5), and obeying what God has commanded us to do. Out of our love for Jesus and in following Him we should imitate His walk in these areas.

The question isn't about do you feel like doing missions or not. The real question is "are we serving and loving and sharing Christ to those around us"? Just because you don't feel like it (aka. aren't called) doesn't mean the command doesn't apply to you and to me. By not doing it and using our own emotions as the reason, we're being disobedient.

By definition "missions" means a group of people taking part in an assignment. God has given us an assignment (quite a few actually) within His word. Are we obeying? Am I obeying?

"Missions" does not strictly mean going overseas and living in a hut. "Missions" does not strictly mean giving up everything you have here for a life in a third world country. Or whatever the first thought is that comes to your mind. "Missions" is about right here, right now, everyday. God calls us to be "on mission" as Christ followers. Am I being obedient to the assignment given to me? Are you? Am I sharing Christ with those around me? Are you?

Maybe that's part of it all... people's hesitance and/or resistance of being involved in missions both locally and overseas - the wording. People have categorized the churchy wording associated with missions to mean something it is not and therefore brush it off, saying that's not for me, I'm not "called", or I don't feel like it, and therefore might be allowing the enemy to use this as a reason/excuse to not obey something God is calling us to do.

So after answering, I find myself asking how can I be "on mission" more regularly and constantly in my life? How can I truly share the love and hope of Christ with those around me today?

Book Corner

2011-08-18T13:02:00.000-05:00

I'm enjoying my time away from school, but down time is still limited. I have been filling my extra time post work with workouts, Bible study, coffee dates, family birthday celebrations, committee meetings, and things like that.

Nevertheless, I am finding some time to read. I have quite a bit to go, but look forward to hopefully finishing this read by the start of school on September 6th.

My current read is a suggestion from my mom's book club. Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese. It's a fiction book set in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia - be still my heart, and is about a surgeon. I'm totally enjoying reading the details of the environment, places and a culture I'm actually familiar with and knowing some of the medical terms being used also. It's been neat.

I'm 124 pages in and the book is over 650 pages long... so lots more to go.

What's currently on your reading list?

Such a time as this?

2011-08-16T18:01:00.000-05:00

Something I have been thinking about for the last several days...

"For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”

Esther 4:14

Feelin the Burn

2011-08-12T07:22:00.000-05:00

Started my workouts again yesterday and already I'm feeling the burn. Oh how I've missed this feeling and the awkward walk as my legs and abs ache with each step.

I've committed to running with a friend in the Labor Day, September 5th Chick-fil-A 5k. Counting today we have 25 days until the race.

I ran last night for the first time in forever. We did just around a mile and walked for the remaining 30minutes or so. It's definitely a work in progress and I'm feeling the burn, but you've got to start somewhere.

This 5k should be the perfect "goal" and motivator to make sure I get my tail in gear.

I'm taking today off to stretch regularly throughout the day. Spin class awaits me Saturday morning. Let the games begin.

C4C - Making a Difference

2011-08-11T12:40:00.000-05:00

The Forsaken Children are currently underway with their Chicks for Change campaign that is working to raise the funding needed to start up our partner project's chicken hatchery in Chencha, Ethiopia in 2012. It's an awesome campaign, reminding folks that every little bit can make a difference with the Lord's blessing and provision.

One way the campaign is focusing on making a difference with every little bit and working to get the entire family involved is by encouraging folks to start a Chicks for Change jar. Collecting your everyday pocket change in this jar until it's time to roll the coins up, deposit them into your account, and cut a check for The Forsaken Children's Chicks for Change fund.

Me with my C4C Jar

Mr. McGoo and I are particpating in this campaign. I have a Chicks for Change jar at home and at work. It has been fun and exciting to see how the funds have grown simply with pocket change.

The first time I rolled up the coins in our C4C jars, only counting the ones that could be rolled into the specifis amounts for deposit (i.e. $10 for quarters, $2 for nickels, $5 for dimes, and $.50 for pennies), we were able to donate $30.00!

Last night I rolled again and came up with another $69.50!

So our current Chicks for Change jar total looks like this:

Installment 1: $30.00
Installment 2: $69.50
Running C4C Total: $99.50

Whoo hooo! Cannot wait to see how this total continues to grow!

Join the Chicks for Change campaign - message me and I'll send you all the materials you need - a sticker to put on your change jar and literature to share with others what it's all about!

Freedom!!!

2011-08-10T21:13:00.002-05:00

Last night I completed my first official nursing class - Health Assessment. Tonight I received word that I made an A, so I'm feeling pretty good. I was blessed with a great set of study buddies for this class and am lucky enough to have them all in my classes next trimester too. So now, I'm looking forward to the next twenty seven days of "freedom". No school, but I will have plenty to fill up my time (what's new?)!

Here are a few things I hope to do in the next 27 days of 'break'...

Work will continue.
Read (more on that in my next "book corner" post).
Run - somehow I got convinced or agreed to run a 5k on Labor Day. I haven't ran in FOREVER, so training starts tomorrow - should be comical to hear about the progress of that.
Clean - the house has been neglected the last several weeks, for the most part, considering Mr. McGoo was out of town and my summer trimester was coming quickly to a close. Time to get some of the deeper cleaning that was missed taken care of once again.
Cheer - Mr. McGoo and I have joined the Fellowship of Christian Athletes "take the field" initiative at our church where we have the opportunity to "take the field" with a young man in high school and his family. We will partner together to cheer for this young man on and off the football field. I'm looking forward to meeting him (he's a junior) on Friday night at the opening season jamboree and can't wait to cheer for him and the team in purple, which happens to be my favorite color.
Celebrate - Mr. McGoo and my middle sis have the same birthday - August 25th, so we will celebrate their birthday as well as the middle sista's husband, my B.I.L. His is the 30th. We will celebrate all three this weekend - the only time everyone could get together.
Ride roller coasters at Six Flags St. Louis. We had tickets for when we went to St. Louis in April, but the park wasn't open the day we planned to go. So one weekend this month we'll do a quick trip to use our tickets and enjoy the rides.
Rest mentally more so than physically.

I'm looking forward to seeing what God has in store for me over the next several days.
Mr. McGoo is about to enter chaos as his fourth and last pre-season begins this weekend for the U of Memphis. That means in addition to everything else he is doing, he will be committed to pre-season activities and I'll only see him late in the evening when he brings home dinner, showers, and crashes before the next day's to dos.

Now to go and get that desired reading started...

Weight Lifted

2011-08-03T10:44:00.000-05:00

I have six days until my summer trimester of school is complete! It really has gone quickly.

Last night a huge weight was lifted off my nursing school carrying shoulders as my lab partner, my normal study buddies, and I all completed our Head to Toe Assessment Check-off exam. We each had 30 minutes to do a full head to toe assessment of our partner, completing each individual part requested and verbalizing our findings.

This assignment felt like a beast and I was very nervous throughout the day yesterday as the "impending doom" loomed overhead, but it's quite comical how all four us walked in and cranked it out with batting an eye. My partner and I did our happy dance once we left school and are planning to studying hard this week for our final on Tuesday. After that we can look forward to some relax time until the fall trimester begins September 6th.

Happy Hump Day! It is for me.

TFC Blog: Thunderstorms

2011-08-02T09:02:00.000-05:00

A little over a year ago, I wrote a post on this blog titled Thunderstorms. This week it is featured on The Forsaken Children's blog. I'd love for you to go and give it a read - leave a comment or two while you're there.

THUNDERSTORMS

I lay in bed last night, snuggling up and enjoying the sounds of the thunder roll in and the rain beginning to pour.

I love thunderstorms . . . And as I listened, I began thinking about how much I enjoy a good night’s sleep under the comfort of my home, being lulled to sleep by the rain and thunder outside my door . . . nothing like that kind of sleep . . .

But then my heart started aching, as a consciousness crept in – “Wait, Mrs. McGoo – you are the lucky one, you have a warm bed, a dry roof over your head to “enjoy” such a storm . . . but how many folks do not have such blessings?”

Ouch!

With that thought, that reality in mind last night, I began aching [. . .]

Complete the post by following the [. . .] above.

No More Common Man

2011-08-01T09:02:00.000-05:00

The whole debt ceiling discussion simply continues to show the lack of efficiency and broken nature of our current government. No longer do we have common man/woman serving his/her constituents like this systems was created and intended to be.

Now we have career politicians with favors owed and others in their own pockets. No longer does anyone simply stand for what's right and necessary for our nation, but instead are constantly skewed by the need to "get re-elected", cover their tail, make those they owe happy, and get ahead.

We need term limits (like our President) in the House & Senate.
Until we have common man serving again, we will continue to have broken government.

Anyone willing and able to lead this charge?
2 terms in House and 2 terms in Senate Max = 16 years of service, then go back home

The End?

2011-07-25T16:46:00.001-05:00

Oh my lanta! How are we at the end of July ALREADY? Seriously? Where did the summer go?

I'm looking at my day planner and it has actually hit me that we're SIX (6) days shy of the end of July! Meaning, we're SEVEN (7) days away from the beginning of August!! Wowzers!

And with those thoughts come the reality that in:

EIGHT (8) days I will take my IPA final "Head to Toe" assessment exam/check-off
FIFTEEN (15) days I will take my my Health Assessment final
SEVENTEEN (17) days I will complete my Summer Trimester at school
FORTY-THREE (43) days I will begin my Fall Trimester (1 of 6 to go!)

Yowzers, getting ahead of myself there!!! Better pull back and remind myself of Matthew 6:34 - "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." The Lord sure knew how our hearts and minds would jump ahead and begin to worry and fill with anxiety. So thankful that He knew the reminders we would need!

4 more days

2011-07-23T22:52:00.000-05:00

the countdown has begun...

I cannot wait to have him home.

Bend Low

2011-07-22T10:20:00.000-05:00

Praying that you take the time to read this today. That you are taken a bit out of your comfort zone and yet encouraged that we have a Savior that calls us out to serve those around us and He gives you the power, ability, and strength to do it! How can you serve today? How can I?

From the blog of Katie Davis, a Nashville area young woman that lives in Uganda and is serving daily just where she is. We can too...

Around here, we live bent low.

Tuesday morning ladies from Masese stream through my front door. We have moved our weekly meeting from the slum of Masese to my living room because I have been up all night with new foster baby and can’t imagine getting all 14 of these little people out of the house. Excited about a change of pace and my sweet friends in my home, I enlist the help of darling Tamara and 13 eager little girls to give these ladies pedicures. We wash and we rub and we paint. I rub lotion into old scarred feet and think of the journeys they have traveled. I whisper thanks for the ways they have blessed me and the things they have taught me, and here in a puddle on the hard tile floor, Joy overflows.

It is on this same cold, smooth tile that I kneel hours later, [. . .]

TFC Blog: A New Look

2011-07-21T12:07:00.000-05:00

Lasting Hope for Ethiopia

Have you noticed our new look? I certainly hope you have because that would mean you have visited our website in the last month! Central to The Forsaken Children’s new look is the new logo pictured here.

Going forward you will see this logo throughout The Forsaken Children’s literature – an image, an icon, a symbol that represents all that TFC strives to stand for: LASTING HOPE.

To finish my blog post for TFC and see the new logo and it's breakdown and meaning go here. I'd love to hear your feedback on the logo.

21

2011-07-20T12:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday, sis!

I cannot believe you're 21 today!

I couldn't be more proud of the beautiful woman you are daily becoming inside & out!

Proverbs 31:30

“Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last;

but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised.”

It's About Relationship

2011-07-19T15:00:00.000-05:00

My daddy wrote this devotional for his fellow elders at church. I thought it was too good now to share. Enjoy.

RELATIONSHIP

We all just recently celebrated our nation’s Independence Day on July 4th, 2011. This nation was founded on principles that gave our citizens the freedom to praise and honor God as they saw fit, and God has blessed this nation tremendously. Though our nation faces many challenges today, Independence Day was a time to reflect on the freedom that we enjoy, and on the sacrifices that so many have made, and continue to make, for that freedom.

While many enjoyed our nation’s anniversary, for anyone that has paid any attention to the news over the past months it has truly been a challenging time, some say an unsettling time. We’ve all been saddened at the loss of life in wars over the years, but in some ways we understand the danger that is involved in such struggles. Recent months, however, have really struck us with the suddenness with which our world, and that of others, can change.

Just in the area of natural disasters, we’ve seen a surge and scale that many simply cannot comprehend. On April 27th, a mile-wide EF4 tornado struck Tuscaloosa, Alabama killing 44. On May 22nd, Joplin, Missouri was struck by an EF5 tornado, with winds exceeding 200 miles per hour that remained on the ground for six solid miles. This became our nation’s deadliest tornado in six decades, with a loss of life totaling 158, property damage exceeding $3 Billion, and debris that is said to be able to fill a football stadium one mile high. But, nothing compares to the estimated $210 Billion in property damage, and loss of life exceeding 20,700, counting dead and missing, from March 11th’s earthquake and tsunami that hit Japan. And, that doesn’t even factor in the growing risks from their damaged nuclear reactors.

In each case, in the blink of an eye, devastation struck - man, woman and child, friends, coworkers, the lonely, the churched, the unchurched, the good, and the bad. While most of us expect every day to be pretty much like the one before, these sudden disasters leave many asking “Why? Where is God in all this? Why has he forsaken us? What purpose could something like this serve?” Well, those are all pretty good questions, and as I thought about them the word that kept coming to mind was Relationship, and though God doesn’t cause
these tragedies to befall us, he does use them for his good purpose.

If you are at all like me, maybe you too slip sometimes into focusing too much on the here and now, on your job, your stresses, your family, your leisure, what your plans are for next week, next month and beyond. As someone said, you slip into a focus on the Horizontal and lose site of the Vertical. Focusing only on those things around you, the Horizontal, you lose sight of what is most important, your relationship to God, the Vertical. But, tragedies cause those impacted to reevaluate what is important, and in most cases they determine that it isn’t the things they had, but their relationships that are the most important. And at that point, God has an opening in those people’s lives.

This earth and all within it are passing away. You know that from observing the passage of time, the aging of the people you love and the things that you own. But God is eternal, not bounded by the constraints of this world. His love for us knows no limits, and his desire is for us to be with him in heaven forever. When Adam and Eve sinned in the garden of Eden, our relationship with God was broken. But God had known this and already had his plan in place to bring us back into oneness with himself through the Holy Spirit and the saving grace of salvation through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, to restore the relationship between us.

God remains patient and long suffering, waiting for us to turn back to him. God’s blessings of provision fall upon us all, as shown in Mark 5:45 where Jesus teaches about loving your enemies, saying “that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.” He does this so that all may embrace the truth in John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” And as in Acts 13:38 “Therefore, my brothers, I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you.”.

Many may feel that they are too far gone, sinned too badly, to have such reconciliation with God, but as Romans 10:13 states “… Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” And God’s acceptance of them is well modeled in the parable of the Prodigal Son, where Luke 15:20 states “But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.”

Relationship – it’s what is clearly most critical to us whenever we suffer tragedy, and it is what God is seeking to restore between each one of us and himself everyday. As these two pictures of a church from before and after the Joplin tornado show, even in your most difficult times, the cross remains and is your path to restoring your relationship to our heavenly Father.

Thank you God for your grace and love, and may our hearts turn towards you as we are reminded of the most important thing, that being a right relationship with you. To you be all the glory, in Jesus name we pray.

Amen.

Current Read

2011-07-18T16:51:00.000-05:00

I finally completed The Hole in Our Gospel, which I have been reading for a LONG time now. Seriously, it has taken me forever. It wasn't an easy read - in the sense that it definitely left you unsettled at times, being reminded and made aware of the gravity of those in need, but more so I have been amazed at how slowly I'm reading non school material now that I'm in nursing school. It's hard to find the time, or desire to read when there is time because you've had your nose stuck "in a book" for school.

In March I spoke at a women's ministry event for my church about some of the things the Lord has shown me through my travels to Ethiopia and interactions with The Forsaken Children. My main point throughout my short talk was based on what God showed me about Jesus feeding the multitude of people in Luke 9 with a little boy's fish and small loaves of bread. God revealed to me through my time in Ethiopia and working with The Forsaken Children that He is the one that multiplies. All He wants is for us to GIVE what we have and let Him create the miracle and blessing through that giving.

I had never read this story of Jesus from that light... the reminder and reality that Jesus was never asking me to give something I didn't have (like the disciple thought - a year's wages to pay for everyone's food), but wanted what I was able to give. He wanted my little, so He could multiply it. For so long I had bought into the enemy's lie that I had nothing to give because I didn't have much or couldn't possibly make a dent in the major problem, but it's just that - a lie.

It was cool to complete The Hole in Our Gospel and come to the final chapters of that book that shared the same story and challenge. As I read it, I was like, WHOA, that's totally what God showed me, prior to ever reading those pages. It was neat.

In other reading news... in May my hubs purchased me this book, One Thousand Gifts, for me. Last night I had a quiet opportunity to begin reading it. Only 15 pages in, I'm aware of why so many of my girlfriends have spoken highly about it. Looking forward to continuing it and sharing more.

Green Thumb

2011-07-16T22:27:00.000-05:00

I do not have a green thumb. Seriously, I believe the farthest thing from it. I think if I'm completely honest with myself, I'd have to admit that plants scare me. I'm not sure what to do with them. Plus they seem so fragile, slow moving, and time consuming - my current schedule doesn't really allow for much time to give green things TLC.

But our front yard plants were growing out of control... something had to be done.

I borrowed my rents' clippers (or whatever they are called) and attempted to gain some control over the greenery in the bed in front of my house this morning. I went out to tackle the task. It started off well. I was on a mission and knew what I needed to do. Or so I thought... but once I began the snip, snip, snip of the branches and leaves growing over the bed's borders, I got lost.

How do you "form" a plant?

I am apparently completely lacking... but I attempted and at least got the majority of the plants growth back into the borders of the bed. See for yourself:

before

after

The major problem with this whole lacking a green thumb thing is that I really desire to have a garden that grows tomatoes (for my hubs), squash, zucchini, cucumbers, green peppers, and watermelon. It would rock to be able to pull those items (some of my favorite eats) from my own backyard and put them to good use one day. Hmmm.... maybe one day I will learn.

A Day in the Life

2011-07-15T23:33:00.000-05:00

While Mr. McGoo is away, I thought it would be fun today - a good Friday treat - to do "A Day in the Life of Your Wife" via photos for him. I took a few photos with my camera phone each hour or so and emailed them to him.

The photos went all throughout the day, hoping to make my hubs smile and laugh along the way. He knows his wife is a ham, so I wasn't worried about that.

Here are a few of the photos sent - many were goofy as the second image suggests. And probably the most special was introducing Mr. McGoo to our friends new addition to their family, Brinley.

Leaving the furbabies for the day - off to work

At the office

Meeting Brinley - she's beautiful

Furbaby love and computer time

Alpha Male while Daddy is away

Silly, but I thought it was a pretty creative way to remind my hubs that I love him and am thinking about him while he is away. Plus I had a blast while doing it. It's fun to be silly now and again.

1/3rd of the Way

2011-07-14T22:35:00.000-05:00

We're one full week into the three weeks that Mr. McGoo and I will be apart during his study abroad. One third of the way down. Although at times it feels like it has gone fast, I think about the next two weeks and really feel like the time has been going slowly. I miss my man.

I've been humbled by the reality of me missing my hubs and the fact that it's ONLY three weeks. I've been humbled to think of the many men and women serving our country abroad, leaving family behind. I've been humbled thinking especially about the mothers home alone with children while their husband and children's father works to protect this nation. And often they are apart for months, a year, or more. I cannot fathom this and am humbled, amazed, and so thankful for the strength and sacrifice of these men, women, and children. I've thought about my friend, Sarah and her gorgeous family of girls and the multiple times her hubby has been away serving his country.

So while I'm missing Mr. McGoo and cannot wait for him to get home and be able to spend time with him, I'm thankful for the perspective this time is giving me. I'm thankful that it has given the Lord an opportunity to remind me of how He has blessed me. Remind me of the men, women, and families that sacrifice for and serve this country. Remind me to keep these families in my prayers more regularly as they too ache to see their loved ones, to hold them near, to hear them laugh, and see them smile.

Just Because

2011-07-11T22:58:00.000-05:00

Yup, it's definitely a Monday. I don't mean in the typical "ugh, it's a Monday" kind of way, more so, in the "it's time to hit the ground running again" Monday way.

The extra pace of life throughout the time my hubs is away has begun. Thankfully I got a few post 10pm minutes of downtime and love with my furbabies...

Think they're comfy?

Just because...

"Use what talents you possess: the woods would be very silent if no birds sang there except those that sang best." -Henry Van Dyke

Mr. McGoo Abroad

2011-07-09T23:57:00.000-05:00

Mr. McGoo is blogging about his adventures in London and per my request posting photos of the things he is seeing. I'm looking forward to at least a photo or two a day of his adventures (hopefully more but I'll deal with one or two minimum. he he).

To follow his adventures go to his blog, here.

For now, I wanted to share one of the photos he posted today - the clouds are beautiful, the skyline is so cool, and the light coming from the left is magnificent.

If I can't be there with him, at least I can get some visual cues and reports of his day. ;)

Crawfish Boil & BBQ for a Cause

2011-07-08T13:27:00.001-05:00

At the beginning of May, Mr. McGoo and I - along with the help of MANY - put together our 2nd Annual Crawfish Boil & BBQ for a Cause. Using the casa of friends, we welcomed any and all to come enjoy all you can eat crawfish and bbq for $20 each or $30 per couple (kids eat free!) to raise funds for worldwide missions.

Last year we raised $1500 for missions and this year was even better! I captured quite a few photos this year but here are just a few to give you the gist...

Mr. & Mrs. McGoo - hosting the event

Brother McGoo - fellow Crawfish cooker with Mr. McGoo

Kiddos playing with some of the live mud bugs

Some of the fabulous ladies helping work the "ticket" table

Our fab BBQ chef and his beautiful wife

Even the little ones enjoyed some good eats

Lessons were given to crawfish newbies

And the eats were delish!

With the help of so many and because of the 118 adults that attended the event, we were able to raise

$2400 for worldwide missions!

That's $900 more than last year and many more folks attending than last! God definitely blessed the event!!! With the funds raised, we were able to donate to mission trips from our church going to Aqua Viva Children's Home in Guatemala this summer ($900+), help support an entire family's mission trip from our church to Uruguay this summer to love and support missionaries on the ground there ($1000), and donate to the organization that is very close to Mr. McGoo and my heart, The Forsaken Children ($400+).

We couldn't have done it without everyone's help, those who attended, the generosity of those involved, and God's blessing!

We're looking forward to next year. What a fun way to enjoy a festive atmosphere, get some good eats, time with friends and family, and raise money for a great cause or two! Until next year...

Ps. Each of the "causes" I listed could always use additional support, even if only $10. Feel free to click on any of the links and donate if you feel led.

3 Weeks

2011-07-07T18:11:00.000-05:00

I've been blog MIA for over a month now and am still busy as ever, but want to work on getting back into the blogging groove. We'll see how that goes.

I'm home, recently arriving back from a short trip to Nashville. Mr. McGoo and I drove to Nashville yesterday morning, arriving into the city just in time to catch the USA Women challenge Sweden in group play of the Women's World Cup. Unfortunately we didn't see the US women put Sweden away because they lost 2-1 and will have to face Brazil in the next round, but we did enjoy the time together.

After catching the game, we made our way to the Nashville airport and I "put Mr. McGoo on a plane" for London by way of Atlanta. He will be studying abroad for 3 weeks and this will be the longest time we've been apart since we began to date in April 2006.

4th of July time together

It was SUPER hard to say goodbye, but I'm looking forward to hearing about my hub's adventures in England and am thankful for how it is allowing him to graduate a full semester early. I'm going to miss him like crazy, though.

Thankfully we were blessed with extra time together on July 4th and were able to enjoy hanging out without the typical things a normal Monday brings. We also were able to spend time together all day Wednesday until he walked through security about 4:15pm.

After sending Mr. McGoo off, I attempted to compose myself and made my way to the middle sis and BIL's house in Nashville. It was great to spend some time with them and eat dinner together. I spent the night and made my way out of the house around 9am for a coffee date with a friend, which was followed by a lunch date with another favorite gal. After lunch I headed back home.

My goal these three weeks while Mr. McGoo is away is summed up into one word: PRODUCTIVE. Even though I know it's going to be a daily struggle having him away for so long, I am going to work to make the best of it and am confident that the Lord is sufficient during this time! I'll share more on the "productive" theme as I hopefully succeed on that daily.

My Heart Aches

2011-06-02T13:28:00.003-05:00

In exactly one week, my hubby, Mr. McGoo and seven others from Central Church will be heading out of Memphis to travel to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia to work with The Forsaken Children's partner ministry, Onesimus.

This journey will the 3rd for Mr. McGoo in twelve months time. I am unable to go this time due to my school schedule. Mr. McGoo is leading the team this year and I'm excited to see what God does in and through them on this journey.

It's finally starting to HIT ME that I'm not going. I'm sending this time rather than a GOER, and that is how God intended it to be. Although I'm excited for the eight making their way there, my heart also aches a little in sadness of the faces I will not see, the hugs I'll be unable to give and receive, and the laughter I will be unable to hear.

I came upon this photo from our journey in December, and smiled as the ache in my heart settled in. This is Nati, often nicknamed Naughty, but my buddy regardless. Look at that smile on his face?!

I long to be there with my friends. I long to go, but am confident that God gives an opportunity to serve the ones I love and care for all the way from home. I can advocate for them. I can raise money for them. I can pray for them!

And I so look forward to the stories and photos to come...

Memorial Day Wknd

2011-06-01T12:35:00.000-05:00

Memorial Day weekend was adventurous and fun. Although we had lots planned on Saturday, the remainder of the weekend was open to whatever might come our way. We ended up always having something to do, usually happening on a whim, and having a blast while doing it. Mr. McGoo and I definitely enjoyed the extra time together.

Here is a fun little breakdown of the 2 major events from our long weekend.

Friday night we laid low, prepping for the weekend ahead and mostly recovering from the previous week. A good night with the hubs, a home cooked dinner together at the house, some Jamie Oliver's Food Revolution watching, and somewhat early to bed!

Saturday we had the opportunity to volunteer at our church's Special Needs Ministry FUNDAY. Once a month they host a "funday" from 10am-1pm for the kids and families of special needs at the skating center. They provide opportunities for the kiddos to skate, ride on little scooters, do arts and crafts, get their faces painted, and overall a time for the parents to relax, hangout with other families and let the volunteers tend to the special needs of their children. Mr. McGoo and I had a blast. I got into roller skates for the first time in uhhh... YEARS... and rolled around pushing kids on scooters and entertaining them as best as I could. We had some great conversations and lots of laughs and smiles were had all around. It was a blast.

Roller Girls - Vicky (regularly helps with Special Needs Ministry), Me, & Rachel (our Connecting Points class first lady)

Can you tell how proud Uncle Kelly is?

Sunday afternoon we were able to hang with our niece, Grace. We hungout with friends, swam, ate good eats, and made our way home. She spent the night with us so that we could take her to our church early Monday morning for the Camp Tsungani departure! Early is an understatement, the alarm sounded at 540am (ON MY EXTRA DAY OFF), but Mr. McGoo and I both were excited to wake Grace and get out the door for camp. We woke Grace about 6am and after breakfast and a little prep, we hit the door about 630am. At 7am we pulled up to the church and were greeted by 6 large charter buses - one for each tribe/color. We found the Seminole (green) bus and got Grace registered and on her way.

To be honest Mr. McGoo and I are a little jealous of all the fun we know our niece is having this week. We remember the good times we had a summer camp many moons ago! We're praying that she has a blast and encounters Jesus in a big way.

Before she went on her way, Mr. McGoo gave Grace 3 objectives for the week:

Have Fun
Make Friends
Learn about Jesus.

I'm positive she's accomplishing them all. We can't wait to hear all about it on Saturday. The camp sent this info out today:

This week, we are learning how to be equipped to face the Ultimate Challenge – to be the best God made us to be. We are learning how to be strong in the Lord and trust Him to lead us, protect us and help us with whatever challenges we may face.

Car ride to church... prepping for camp departure. She's pumped!

Loading onto the Seminole bus - full of kiddos who just finished 3rd grade!

In addition to these two events, we ate with friends (multiple times), swam, hosted a small group get together from our Sunday School class, and cleaned house. A good weekend!

Ps. Why does the short week after a long weekend always seem to go sooo slowly?

Pizza Making & Family Visits

2011-05-24T12:26:00.000-05:00

I'm beginning to believe I will never catch up on posting and I just need to deal with it and get to the posts that I'm capable of when I find the time or even stop to do so. Trying to remind myself that it doesn't mean I cannot give a quick tidbit about life with the McGoos.

Mr. McGoo's mom and step dad came in town from Arizona this weekend. We've been blessed enough to have them staying with us Saturday evening until tomorrow morning! To surprise them, and our niece, we invited Grace over to spend the night Saturday and go with us to church Sunday morning.

Boy was she excited to see Nana and Grandpa Al walk into the door later that evening!

Before they arrived, however, we had some fun of our own. First Grace helped her uncle, Mr. McGoo bathe the furbabies outside, and then came inside, cleaned up, and went to homemade pizza making!

Meet Chef Pizza Maker Grace:

I'm pretty sure I had as much fun as she did watching her and instructing her how to make the pizza. She's such a ham, I love it. After we put the pizza in the oven (she's just posing there with the pizza, I actually put it into the oven to keep her from getting burned), we jumped on the couch, each with a book and read "together" until the pizza was ready for consumption.

A good evening indeed.

To Be Used by God

2011-05-20T09:22:00.002-05:00

Although they have not yet become intimate friends, I imagine that it will happen as we continue to pray for them regularly and advocate for the ministry God is using them to accomplish in Uruguay. It seems to happen that way - when you partner with someone you cannot help but begin to learn more about them and the way God uses them and respect, honor, and love them through that process!

Our friends, Matt and Toni Daniels (and their children) are living in Uruguay as full time missionaries. They have been there a long time and the Lord is blessing their ministry but also growing their faith about His provision and His timing.

Today Matt posted a BEAUTIFUL blog post about that topic and I wanted to share it with you. Please take a moment to read it. If you've ever had a moment when you had to choose between faith that God is going to come through and provide for you or be consumed by fear and bout, you will be spoken to through this post...

The rain is already there…
by Matt on May 20, 2011

I am not prone to wild charismatic experiences, but this one blows my mind, and I think it will put a smile on your face.

I went out to the San Geronimo house last week to pay the last of my operating fund to a local guy that helps out with the property. A pang went through my heart when I signed the paystub and said, “I’ll call you when there is more funding.”

I loaded up the broken lawn tractor in the back of my station wagon (picture half a lawn tractor hanging out the back, going down the highway), and wept my fear and trepidation all the way to the next town where the shop was. I dropped off the tractor for repairs, and wept and cried out my fear and trepidation all the way home, variously yelling and whispering, “Help, Papa. Help, Papa.”

I am open to be used by God to see miracles happen, but this earthsuit I walk around in has a hard time living in the gap between “no you don’t see Him” and “now you do.” I’m like a 12 month old. If God walks out of my sight for just a second, part of me fails to believe He exists.

I get home with tear tracks still on my face, [. . .]

Click on the title or the [. . .] link to finish the post - it's definitely WORTH IT!

Mr. McGoo and I joined the Daniels in their ministry this week by signing up to be a part of their "100 Holding and Helping". I wasn't aware of the need or the idea until I came upon their website by direction of our church's Facebook page and Twitter account. Matt had written an incredible blog post about how God is using their ministry (you can find that post here). After reading the post and being encouraged by their ministry and what God is doing through them, I was led me to their "100 Holding and Helping" campaign as I continued to look around their website.

I'm inviting you to do the same - to join the team of 100 folks that God is going to use to encourage, equip, and love the Daniels and their ministry!

Here's the deal, but you can find more on their website - they are looking for 100 people that will commit to giving $10 a month to them for 2 years. Seriously $10 - a MONTH - piece of cake... but 100 people joining together can begin to make a significant difference.

Will YOU be one of those 100?

Check out their website here: http://www.mattandtoni.org/?page_id=127 and find out how to join the team today.

Not all of us are called to serve in another country. Not everyone is spurred by God to travel to Uruguay, Ethiopia, or even the next state to spread the Gospel... but EVERYONE is called to serve and advance the Kingdom of God where they are. Even from home, wherever that may be, we have opportunities daily to be used by God. He's another invitation to do just that!

More info about one of their specific projects - the vision, the goal, the need:

Reach. Innovate. Multiply. Geronimo! from Matthew Daniels on Vimeo.

Uncle & Aunt

2011-05-19T09:43:00.000-05:00

Attempt to catch the blog up on some things 1.

Here are some photos of Mr. McGoo and me, and our niece, Grace. She spent the night the Saturday before Mother's Day and we went to church together.

I always try to catch a mini photo shoot with her when we're out and about together to share with her grandparents (Mr. McGoo's mom and dad) that live in AZ and RI.

Enjoy. She's our little Sassafrass (sorry Mr. McGoo, know I butchered the spelling!) and we love her.

God's Beauty - Be Still

2011-05-16T16:56:00.000-05:00

Doesn't the beauty God gives us on a daily basis,

all around, just make you go "WOW"?

Things have been crazy busy with the start of a new school trimester and everything else going on these days. A new class means a new schedule, a new routine, new coursework, and with this being my first true nursing class this is a new ball game all together. A lot is happening these days and whenever I get a moment of time for myself or time to just be, I'm having difficulty desiring to write or be on the computer all, even though there is much to tell about!

I was driving to class after a full day at work on Thursday, a long day at that, and began to feel the pressure of my schedule start to weigh me down... it was getting heavy and I began to feel overwhelmed until something (the Holy Spirit) sparked me to look up past the path I was driving... telling me to look further than the long road ahead of me and the cars in my way (not too far so I would hit them, but you know what I mean), and when I looked up THIS is what I saw. Wow.

At that moment it all came back into perspective. He is on the throne! He is in control. One day a time and He'll pull me through! Focus on what matters and BE STILL & KNOW (Ps. 46:10) HE IS GOD!

I'm so thankful for little reminders like that.

St. Louis Getaway

2011-05-13T13:06:00.000-05:00

So the hubs and I went to St. Louis for a few days the week before Easter. It was a mini vacation getaway together, as well as our Anniversary vacation, which was a month prior. With our current schedules, finding time to get away together is difficult. When I'm in school, he's out and vis versa, so it was nice to just BE together, sit around, talk, watch cable, and simply getaway from the normal routine.

We planned to enjoy a day at Six Flags, but I got the dates wrong and it was only open on the tornado weather day... so we plan to come back for a quick visit to use our Six Flags Tickets this summer! Can't wait.

We drove up on Wednesday and left Friday morning for Kansas City, KS. Here is our trip in photos:

On the road - showing off my new hairdo (cut the day before)

Cannot drive through Sikeston without a stop at Lambert's!

My hubs got us the hook up! Priceline: Hyatt downtown for $65 per night, upgraded to a Arch View King Room. NICE!

The Arch: cannot help but get mesmerized by it!

Just a hop, skip, and a jump from our hotel!

We did the Budweiser Busch Brewery Tour - FREE and very cool. Gorgeous buildings!

The Budweiser clydesdale horses are beautiful and massive!

The clydesdale stables are immaculate - I know this is a shot of horses' backsides, but took it for my niece's son, Clayton who loves Thomas the train - see the name of the horse on the right.

Mr. McGoo also scored us 5th row up tickets by 1st base for the Cardinals - $32 total!

Beautiful ballpark!

This is the photo I was taking when I missed the guy on the RIGHT ticket, who is amazing, hitting a HOMERUN! oops. At least I saw the replay on the big screen.

Self-portrait at the Cardinals game! BEAUTIFUL WEATHER!

As always, I enjoyed being with the hubs and seeing some sites. We had a great time and were so thankful we had a chance to step away from our routine and see St. Louis. We'll be back for more!

one thousand gifts - my husband

2011-05-11T16:03:00.000-05:00

My hubby outdid himself today. I guess he's seen the "overwhelmed" feeling that has been coming over me this week (I've tried to hide it), or the emotional exhaustion from lack of sleep (I've tried to drink my coffee or tea and keep truckin), or the Mrs. McGoo can be crazy at times (ugh, it happens)... but whatever he saw - Mr. McGoo went out of his way today to surprise me with love, affirmation, and encouragement.

In addition to the beautiful flowers he surprised me with at work (apparently he ordered purple tulips, but they came to me orangey and red - beautiful nonetheless), he met me for lunch with my youngest sis (surprise) AND had a happy waiting for me once I got off work (see below).

Yeah, this guy is a keeper. He knew exactly what I needed to hear today and went beyond to share those words, encouragement, and love with me in some not so regular, everyday ways! I'm so thankful for him and glad to be on his team!

I've been talking about this book for awhile. Lots of my blogger friends and friends in general have recently purchased this book or read it themselves. It has been on my "to get" list, and now I get to put it on my "to read now that I own" list. I'm looking forward to diving into the pages (at some point).

But for now, I'm heading to bed early to get some of that much needed sleep. goodnight

We're a Team

2011-05-11T15:49:00.002-05:00

I was surprised by these this afternoon being delivered to my work from Mr. McGoo...

Gorgeous.

Perfect Timing.

Perfect Note.

I'm a blessed woman!

Photo taken without the "cloudy" setting on my phone

Being a Wife Is All About Jesus

2011-05-10T15:02:00.000-05:00

"Being a godly wife flows from being a committed daughter."

I came upon this great article about being a Godly wife. We spoke in Sunday School /our Connecting Point class at church this Sunday about the role of man and wife in a marriage. We split up into guys and girls and began studying God's word about the matter and discussing what it means, how we go about accomplishing what it calls us to be, and beyond.

I love how this article points to the basis of it all... JESUS. Without Jesus I'm incapable of being a good wife, let along a Godly one. Lord help me.

Check out the article. It's a goodie - http://theresurgence.com/2011/05/10/being-a-wife-is-all-about-jesus

National Day of Prayer

2011-05-05T08:46:00.000-05:00

Today is National Day of Prayer. Today marks the 60th annual event and this year's theme is "A Mighty Fortress is Our God" from Psalm 91:2, which states: "I will say to the Lord, my refuge and my fortress, my God in whom I trust."

Remember today to take some time to pray for our family, friends, coworkers, country, leadership, other countries around the world, etc. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 (pray without ceasing)!

Here is a great article from Ernie Frey (my church pastor) about why we need National Day of Prayer: http://faithinmemphis.com/2011/05/02/frey-would-the-real-church-please-kneel/

It really resonated with me.

“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” – 2 Chronicles 7:14

Something New: White Chicken Chili

2011-05-04T08:40:00.000-05:00

Rachael Ray White Chicken Chili

Ingredients:

32 oz chicken broth
20 oz canned chicken
16 oz salsa
3 cans white beans, drained
2 cloves minced garlic
2 tps cumin
sour cream to garnish
1 can water

Place all ingredients in crockpot (YAY!). Cook on low for 4hrs. Garnish with sour cream and serve. Yields 1 1/2 c per serving

* I was pressed for time so I did 2 hrs on high in the crockpot and the dish was more soupy for me than desired. I have not decided if that's because of the extra water (meaning I should reduce that amount) or if it's because I went high heat/short time instead of low heat/longer time. Either way it was tastey. Mr. McGoo added some shredded cheese too.

Nashville

2011-05-02T17:19:00.000-05:00

The weekend before Easter I had the opportunity to travel to Nashville. It had been awhile since I found my way to this beautiful city last, and I was excited to see my sis and bro in law, catch a glimpse of the new house, and visit some of my Nashville friends while in town.

Although I had intended on coming for the weekend plus some, fundraising endeavors for the Ethiopia Short Term Mission Trip at Central Church kept me in Memphis until Saturday afternoon. I was glad I stayed for the events because the Ethiopia Yard Sale raised the team over $500 and the most creative fundraiser yet, Zumba for Ethiopia raised over $400.

Once the fundraisers were complete, I hit the road and made it to Nashville in time to eat dinner with sis, bro in law, and my folks who were also visiting for the weekend. We had a great time, talking and competing with one another on Words with Friends. At multiple times post dinner the five of us were sitting in the living room together, completely silent, playing against each other (4+ games happening on each of our phones at the same time). The only time the silence would be broken was the point in which someone was killed by a big point move by their opponent. Hilarious or sad, I'm not sure which, but I'm certain we all enjoyed it!

B.I.L. (Brent) and SIS (Robin) - the good looking couple after Sushi Dinner

Middle sis and Bro's new house did NOT disappoint. As expected, it's absolutely adorable and being pulled together decor wise with some made skills. Check out the process on my sister's blog: Kee Creative. They have done a ton of work already to the house, painting in EVERY ROOM to start. In my opinion the house could not be any cuter or more perfect for this favorite couple of mine. I enjoyed their living room the first night, sleeping on the couch while Mom and Pop were in town and then got to experience the dark blue, rich colored guest room the second night once Mom and Pop had headed back home. Both were great experience and I look forward to visiting with Mr. McGoo next.

My fur-niece and fur-nephew DEFINITELY love their new casa. Lots of room to roam and especially lots of windows to look outside. Here is shot of the fur-niece scoping out the neighborhood for me while I leisurely read on Monday when everyone else was at work. Nice!

In addition to spending time with my sis and bro, I made use of my Monday visit to see some Nashville friends. I met a girlfriend for lunch, whom I love and although the visit with short and sweet, it warmed my heart to hear what God is doing in her and her hubby's life and was great to share with her all that's happening in ours. Tabitha is such an encouragement to me, so even though it was during her lunch break and short, I'm so thankful she took the time to visit with me.

Likewise, I was able to have a coffee date with another Nashville friend of mine. Katie, who you may know from her blog that I follow (here) was able to meet with me at Starbucks. She brought her youngest son, Yohannes with her and I was able to meet him for the first time! It was GREAT visiting and catching up. And seeing Yohannes in person was wonderful, especially after so many times of prayer for him and about him. He's adorable just like Katie's other boys and has a personality of his own. I was so blessed to be able to hear all about the things God is doing in her and her family's lives and was encouraged by her constant support of the things Mr. McGoo and I are pursuing and doing with The Forsaken Children and ministry in Ethiopia. I'm looking forward to the next get together for sure!

Although the trip was short: Saturday evening in, Monday evening out - I was able to do some of my favorite things will people I love: talk, drink coffee, eat, laugh, worship Jesus, go to church, sing, dance, read, etc. A great visit and I'm ready to go back - next time I'll bring the spouse!

I'm so proud of my sister and all that God is doing in her life!

B.O.B. 2

2011-04-27T16:53:00.000-05:00

Yup, Behind On Blogging 2 - believe it or not this week has been jam packed to the point of making blogging an impossibility unless I desire to skip sleeping each night to complete my posts.... not going to happen. Mr. McGoo wouldn't survive being around such a sleepless wife.

So I thought I'd stop by, say hello, and let you know I did not mean to break my intention of blogging on Monday - life got in the way.

Until we meet again...

- stinky blogger over and out

B.O.B.

2011-04-24T21:18:00.003-05:00

Yup, I'm B.O.B. - Behind On Blogging... big time!

But I have good reason.... I've been on vacation, out of town, away from the computer, and loving it! So with one day left of "vaca", I'm going to start the blogging process once again.

Here are some blogs to look forward to:

Ethiopia fundraisers - Zumba and Yard Sale
Nashville Travels and visit with my middle sis and bro
St. Louis Travels with the hubs
Kansas City Travels with the hubs and Easter

In the meantime, you can read the follow up blog post by Mr. McGoo about his "WRECKED PLANS" and how he ended up in Ethiopia last June and what the Lord did while he was there: http://theforsakenchildren.org/my-wrecked-plans-building-a-sports-ministry/.

Distorting Love

2011-04-13T12:35:00.000-05:00

Excellent article from Relevant Magazine regarding romance, relationships, and sexuality and how media can and does affect them - check it out... I bolded areas that stuck out to me within the text.

Distorting Love
by Jake and Melissa Kircher
Tuesday, 12 April 2011 [Relevant Magazine]

How media is corrupting our view of romance, relationships and sexuality.

“A colonial house was centered around a fireplace to keep warm. The fear was being cold,” says Derek Melleby, the director for the College Transition Initiative at the Center for Parent/Youth Understanding. “Living rooms today are centered around a TV. The fear is being disconnected.”

In other words, American culture values connection and intimacy above all else. Because this culture’s greatest fear is being alone—according to the media in which Americans are constantly immersed.
Can technology and media aid intimacy? In many ways, yes. However, they also have a polarizing effect on relationships. According to recent studies, the average American takes in about 3,500 to 5,000 marketing messages a day and spends about 41 hours per week using technology such as cell phones, TV, video games, music and the Internet.

Everyone is spending vast amounts of time engaged in mediated reality and less time engaged with each other. Experts are only at the very beginning of understanding how this fast-changing electronic culture will impact human love and relationships in the long term. Because of media and technology, the ways in which people fall in love, connect within relationship and experience sexuality are different than any other generation before this one. How does one navigate these uncharted waters and discern what real, healthy marriages and romantic relationships should look like?

The Love Delusion

The root of any romance today is love, but it wasn’t always so. In past cultures, people came together because their parents arranged it or they wanted to join lands or kingdoms; love was secondary. Today, love is the only thing that matters. This over-emphasis on love is encouraged by media that tells stories, sings songs and writes books about how true love conquers all, is ultimately fulfilling, brings a never-ending wealth of happiness and is rarely marred by significant conflict.

Sure, everyone knows real love doesn’t work this way, but that doesn’t mean those tantalizing (and insistent) images don’t affect people’s hopes for romance—and, in turn, cause disappointment in the mundane drone of the day to day.

“A real relationship is one where you take out the garbage, pay the bills and talk about your kids,” says Reid Daitzman Ph.D., practicing clinical psychologist and CEO of Foursight Game Systems. “A lot of it is really boring. What people don’t realize, though, is that the best day of their lives includes all that boring stuff. Because when people don’t have it, they really miss it. A guy who just had an affair really misses his wife and would love to be back with her talking about trivial things.”

This concept can be hard to swallow when the love media portrays seems more desirable than what is experienced in reality. Shannon Martin, a young, married mom in Connecticut confides: “Romantic movies make you think your relationship is supposed to be so amazing, passionate and exciting all the time. My marriage isn’t like that, and sometimes I wonder if something’s wrong.”

Adults should be able to tell the difference between over-romanticized love and healthy, realistic love. But in actuality, peoples’ lives are beginning to just echo the stories they see onscreen. The problem is, movies usually end just as a relationship is beginning.

As people consume the media’s view of love, it’s becoming more common for relationships and marriages to be primarily based on a desire for happiness and personal fulfillment. When these feelings fade, people think love is gone and become an emotional train, moving from one lover or spouse to the next. It’s become such a problem that some have begun to refer to this mediated view of romance as “emotional pornography”—insinuating that popular expressions of love and romance rewire the brain in ways that recall the damage done by visual pornography. Just as visual pornography sets up unrealistic expectations for sex and physicality, the media’s fanciful stories of love wire consumers to expect Hollywood-style kisses in the rain and constant, epic moments of dramatic love. How can real life compete?

“One of the things that [has] struck me is the formative power of consumerism,” says Mark Powley, author of Consumer Detox and co-founder of the Breathe network. “We are shaped in ways that reach beyond our shopping habits. As consumers, our identity is changeable: We’re not accountable to anyone, and we’re free to disengage whenever we feel like it. More and more, these patterns are affecting our relationships. We move around more, we connect with many people, but we’re not so good at committing to them.”

A study by Barna Group on divorce confirms that ideas about love and marriage are changing. “Interviews with young adults suggest they want their initial marriage to last, but are not particularly optimistic about that possibility,” the study reports. “There is also evidence that many young people are moving toward embracing the idea of serial marriage, in which a person gets married two or three times.”

Of course the media sells the most exciting parts of love. But there’s more to love than just excitement—there’s also God-given purpose.

“Your life as a believer in Christ is to strategically give yourself away for the Kingdom of God,” says Paul Sorensen, the executive director and founder of the Greenwich Center of Hope and Renewal. “Our world says here and now is the greatest good and making myself happy is paramount. Biblically, love is about loving the other person and giving to them.”

The Changing Expectations of Sexuality

Contemporary consumer culture utilizes media and technology to surround the culture with sex. It sells products, promotes businesses, bolsters movie ticket sales and simply grabs our attention. Many people don’t realize how this constant exposure can develop subconscious expectations about sexuality.

Thus, many unrealistically believe sex should never be awkward, always be passionate and that both people will have fantastic, simultaneous satisfaction with a minimum of effort.

Many young adults, especially Christians it seems, enter marriage and wrestle with their sexuality. “Sex was a struggle when my wife and I first got married,” says Danny Jenkins, who’s 27 and recently married. “I was taught that sex before marriage was bad. At the same time, I had this idea from movies and the church that sex would be an erotic fantasy when it did happen. It was confusing in our first year of marriage to understand that sex was ‘good,’ but that it wasn’t just automatically mind-blowing like the media tells us. We ended up seeing a counselor to help us sort through it all.”

Social media, online dating, chat rooms and pornography also muddle things by creating new avenues for sexuality that move sexual experiences from the physical realm to the metaphysical. This becomes a huge gray area as this generation grapples with how to find balance and healthiness in the midst of an onslaught of opportunity for all kinds of new sexual experiences.

“Now people can get what they want online that they used to get in physical reality. I think that sense of power and control is a positive thing in terms of mental health, but it might not be that positive in terms of the quality of the [relationship],” Daitzman says.

Christians most often point the finger at visual pornography, but pornography is only part of the issue as a whole. Technology allows people to be in total control of their personal sexual experiences rather than enter into a sexual partnership. People perceive that there is little risk or harm when engaging in electronic forms of sexual expression. In actuality, the harm can be very great. The hurt caused by an online flirtation, affair or addiction can rip apart relationships and cause lifelong suffering.

When society urges people to utilize technology to take control and get what they want sexually, when media says love is never-ending happiness and when gadgets pull everyone away from loved ones rather than bringing them together, how does anyone find a measure of balance and healthiness in their love life?

Media and technology affect relationships. And in sometimes harmful ways. But relationships, in turn, affect people’s response to media and technology. When communities, churches, families, couples and friends can be honest with each other, share their lives and work on healthy uses and boundaries for media and technology together, it creates the power to shape the culture rather than being shaped by it.

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2011-04-12T12:35:00.000-05:00

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