Set down your stars.

More insight from the Intensive.

Zan Tyler, in all her cute-ness, said something that weekend that I think of constantly...probably because I fail in this area numerous times a day.

We are moms and we are busy.  We have a calling to make our children a priority.  Some of us are also called to other things.  For me, blogging, parade, CWA, Mom Heart, etc.  But we must put first thing's first.

He had in His right hand seven stars, our of His mouth went a sharp two-edged sword, and His countenance was like the sun shining in its strength.  And when I saw Him, I fell at His feet as dead.  But He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, "Do not be afraid;  I am the First and the Last." ~Revelation 1:16-17 (emphasis mine)

Did you see that?  He had stars in His right hand and then He put His right hand on His child.  It doesn't say that He set down the stars, but He must have...unless Jesus has TWO right hands.

Jesus sees when one of His children is in need and He meets that need first, then goes back to work.  We need to meet the needs of our children as they inconveniently occur. Set down our stars, focus on that child, and then pick the stars back up and finish the work.

I just thought this was a beautiful picture and applicable since I can often get "too busy" for my children.  Actually this is a genuine and difficult struggle for me.  Let it not be so.  I must set down my stars to do the greater work of loving my children and my husband.


p.s. Jennifer's post on the subject: Whose Are You?

abortion doulas

(Taken from a recent Silent Voices Newsletter.)

Lauren Mitchell struggled to adjust to her new role as a doula.  She is one of many trained, as the Greek term literally means, to assist in childbirth. "What you get very used to is this weird mix of tragedy and relief and sex and emotions," she says.  "There's always this interesting mix of remorse and relief."

If that doesn't sound like a traditional birth experience to you, you're right.  Lauren is an abortion doula, taught to coach mothers not in the birth, but killing of children.  She is one of dozens of volunteers with The Doula Project in Manhattan.  The group covertly works in two unidentified abortion mills, including one that specializes in late-term abortions.

One doula says her job is to "offer patients whatever they need: someone to joke with, someone to cry with, maybe someone to rub their feet."  Another described how she helped a mother by simply blocking her view of lethal injection syringes and an ultrasound monitor with her soon-to-be dead baby's image on it.  She considered that a successful intercession.  But where will these abortion helpers be when days, months, or years later, these hurting mothers are faced with an inescapable sense of loss, depression, and regret?  What jokes will they distract them with then?

This phenomenon is a tragedy of wolves in sheep's clothing.   Not only does the masquerade deny women the true support they need, it also presents an ironic problem for the abortion community itself.  They've spent decades claiming that terminating pregnancies does not bring difficult, painful, or troubling consequences.  Promoting this service is the ultimate admission they were wrong.

Unfortunately, the existence of the abortion doula could be the start of a bigger push.  These helpers could soon be the ones to fill in for a nationwide shortage of abortionists by administering lethal drugs, too.  If so, you can count on us to push right back.  We'll always champion for baby birthdays, not death days - and that's something every doula should be doing, too.

Written by Bradley Mattes for Life Issues Institute.  September 3, 2010. 

P.S.  Read Sarah Mae's post today.  Must be a theme.

How do you like them apples?

We picked apples at Raven Hill Orchard in Julian.  They allowed taste-testing and had several varieties to choose from.

Brandon told Lisa all about his Lego collection.

Lisa and I met in the Denver airport in August.  We both were on our way to the Mom Heart Intensive Training with Sally Clarkson and had apparently been on the same flight from San Diego.  As Providence would have it, we were roomies.  I mentioned before how the ladies I met in Colorado are the most treasured group of ladies in the world, working hard to raise a generation of world-changers.  This is our first time seeing one another since we parted ways in Colorado.  Her boys are the same age as mine.  Awesome.  Tell me God doesn't care about the details.  The one girl from my city has 2 boys only a month or so younger than my own.  They hit it off and became warrior brothers from the get-go.

The greatest hide-out of all time.
Our boys played for 3 hours in this tree,
which was great because Lisa and I got plenty of time to talk. 

The little boy version of Charlie's Angels.  No, I didn't pose them.  This was all on their own. LOL!
The apples are fireballs and the sticks apparently transition from gun to sword at will.
Of course, Si received a battle injury.  Took a tree branch to the head.
Thankfully no stitches needed, but a few steri-strips now hold him together.

Old friends now.  They've fought dragons & bad guys together.

When Character Was King: Ronald Reagan

We have spent much time in recent weeks on the person of Ronald Wilson Reagan.

I have been listening to an audio book titled, When Character Was King by Peggy Noonan.  It is beautifully written.  Peggy also wrote Patriotic Grace which I have been reading for the past few weeks as well.

section of the Berlin Wall

Reagan was 30 years old when World War 2 began.  30 years old.  Often at 36, I think the purpose of my life is now...and it is, but I have so much ahead of me, Lord willing, and who knows where I may end up or what God will call me to?  Certainly I can look back through my life and see His hand upon it.  Disneyland, Miriam, my marriage, the move to Borrego and the incredible benefit that has been to me as a wife and mom, and now.  Today, I am actively involved in the Salt & Light ministry at my church and my activity with CWA (Concerned Women for America) is intertwined with it, I home school my children and the effects of that are eternal, I love to encourage true worship in movement, and I have enjoyed so much planning the home town parade in Borrego...  Life is now.  But it is not only now.  Reagan was 30 when WW2 hit.  40 years later he would become arguably the greatest President this world has ever known.  He was SAG president and faced communism head-on, he was governor of California, he went through a devastating divorce.  And life goes on.  God isn't done with us until He calls us home.  His family will say that even in his dementia, God used him.

about to enter Reagan's Presidential Library

Precious one, your life is not now as you look around you all it will ever be...whether good or bad.  Yes, life is a vapor, but even vapors twist and turn and evolve in one beautiful wisp after another until one day it vanishes altogether...with just a faint memory of beauty.  "Wherever you are, be all there."  And if I may add, don't dwell on what once was, but look around you for what can be now and dream of what may come.  Be idealistic.  Moses was 80 when he began his ministry.  Reagan was 70 when he became a great President...and I suggest, perhaps, it was his age and experience that made him so great.  We only get better with age.  Relish it.

Reagan didn't run for office because it was what he wanted, he ran because the people wanted him.  Can you honestly say that about our leaders today?  I imagine there must be a small handful that serve sincerely out of duty and the good of the people and not their own personal gain or prestige, but most serve for selfish reasons...power, money and influence.  Reagan only ran when he knew the people wanted him.

model of the White House at the Reagan Library

Nancy.  She was his protector.

A hefty portion of this book is dedicated to the assassination attempt on Reagan.  As it should be, I guess, but I found myself surprised at the time spent on the subject.  Why?  Maybe because it hasn't been amplified by the media in my life or in the history books.  I don't know.  But, it was a very significant event.  He almost died and clearly God's hand of protection was on him.  Today, we saw at the Presidential Library the suit he was wearing and the very minuscule bullet hole in his coat.  I was near tears numerous times as various account and perspectives were narrated about this event.  All of them captivating.

Just helping the old man down the hall.

As I finished this wonderful account of Reagan's life on our long drive to our home school group the other day, I was moved to tears.  The man who coined the phrase "Peace through strength" ended his life in quiet mystery.  It must bless Nancy beyond belief to hear people talk about their memories of her husband.  He was an amazing man.  Yes, mistakes were made.  But, who's perfect?  He was a truly amazing President.  Humble. Real. Kind. Firm.

My precious warrior prince.

The end reflected on the children of one of the men in Reagan's administration.  He took his sons through the White House to show them where his dad used to work.  The boys had toy swords and were acting out the part of warriors.  The author commented on the value of our boys growing up knowing there are things worth fighting for and defending.  I have two little warriors in my own home.  It was a nice confirmation.

Pray for the USA, week of September 26

Act as if it’s all up to you; 

Pray as if it’s all up to Him.

PRAISE HIM!
Defense Authorization Bill discussion stopped on the senate floor. (via Citizen Link, CWA, PersonalLiberty.com)

This puts the bill on the shelf until Dems find a loophole to schedule another vote which may not happen until after the November elections.  This bill would repeal Don't Ask Don't Tell and allow abortion provision for military bases both here and abroad.

Also attached to this, somehow, is the DREAM Act, an amendment to allow amnesty for illegal aliens to gain citizenship by high school graduation (paid for by your tax dollars) or pursuing military service.  In a few words:  illegal alien bailout.

DISCLOSE Act went to a vote again this week.  Needed 60 to pass, final tally 59-39.  Whew!  That was a close one.  (via Citizen Link)

To review, DISCLOSE stifles Americans’ legitimate right to political speech. The bill increases bureaucratic regulations, which will punish small business owners and grassroots groups.  It places onerous regulations on campaign activity, which will all but eliminate grassroots advocacy.

FYI:
Obama omits "by our Creator" in his quoting of the Declaration of Independence. (via PersonalLiberty.com, AFA, Examiner)

"From the overflow of the heart does the mouth speak." (Mt. 12:34)  Also, he was using a teleprompter so it seems intentional.

VOTE!

Proposition 19 (CA) legalizes marijuana.  No, not “medical marijuana,” because that’s already California law and is unaffected. (via MarijuanaHarmsFamilies.com)

Marijuana is the #1 addiction of teens in rehab, a stepping off point for cocaine and meth use, 4 times more potent than it was in the 1970's, & harms lungs more than cigarettes.

Legalizing would make possible: sale in grocery stores, drugged driving (more so than is already happening), high on the job, high insurance rates, farmland used for marijuana farms, ruins minds, lives & families.

Proposition 23 (CA) would suspend AB32, "The Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006" which is a California "Cap & Trade" bill. (via California Jobs Initiatative, SuspendAB.org)

PG&E opposes Prop 23 but supports AB32 and why shouldn't they?  High energy usage = higher rates = PG&E rolling in more of your cash.  You're so generous!  PG&E will thank you for opposing Prop 23. Vote No on 23. 

Cap & Trade redistributes wealth and will be devastating to businesses, personal property rights, private energy usage, etc.  It is another way that big government is barging it's way into your personal life and your home.  High regulation and high energy fees.

______________________________

*To find your congressman, go to www.govtrack.us.  Once you find your congressman, click on their website and there should be a contact tab on the home page.

Reaching for the Son.

Completing him...before the wedding

High Tea at the Huntington Library, Pasadena, CA. 2002.

 "When I found the one whom my soul loves 

I held him,

and would not let him go..."

~Song of Solomon 3:4

I have often said that Jamie and I have 

an "Anne of Green Gables" love story

...and now you will see why.

Jamie and I met the summer of 1992 through friends.  His best friend was dating my friend's sister.  They had wanted us to meet and I resisted.  One night, I ended up at my friend's home after work and they threw me in her mom's minivan and zipped me up to Poway.  I had no idea where we were headed and was excited about the surprise destination until I finally realized I was going to be meeting this guy.

They jumped out.  I followed reluctantly and met Jamie.  We went for a walk in the night to a nearby park and the first thing he asked me was about my salvation in Jesus.  Over the next year and a half, we dated a few months, broke up, dated again, broke up.  Until I went through the most desperately trying time of my life.  A few months later, I knew I had to tell Jamie what I had gone through.  I don't know why.  I just felt compelled to let him know.  Jamie ended up being a true friend and confidante.  I was so thankful for his friendship and trustworthiness.  It became obvious that he wanted more than friendship and so, I backed out of our friendship.  Since my abortion and the broken relationship with the guy I was with at that time, I had no desire to have a boyfriend or any romantic relationship.  I was just too hurt and convinced I didn't deserve to be with anyone save Jesus.  So, Jamie and I parted ways...or more accurately, I parted.  

I ended up meeting a sweet man, a Christian, and we eventually got engaged.  And I landed the job dancing at Disneyland during this time.  As the engagement drew on, it became very clear that he was not who God had for me.  He was kind and sweet, but just not the one.  How did I know this?  After an argument over the phone one morning (which Jamie ironically witnessed...since I stayed with his family on occasion), I got in my car a drove from Poway to Disneyland.  It's an hour and a half drive so I had a lot of time to think.  Clear as anything and almost audibly I heard God say to me, "He's not the one."  "What?" I replied.  Again, "He's not the one."  Peace overwhelmed me and I knew it was over between me and this guy.  So a few days later when I saw him, we ended our relationship amicably and peacefully.  (Click here for this whole story.)  Matter of fact.  It was simple, clean, clear, right.  A few days later, Jamie had arranged to get together.  I was convinced that we were going to hang out as friends.  Over dinner, he asked me what happened with the guy I was with, so I told him that God told me it was over.  Then Jamie said something to me I will never forget and took me by surprise, "Has God told you anything about me?"  I was so clueless that he even liked me anymore.  It had been several months since we cut things off.  Much had happened in my life.  Healing.  Engagement.  Disneyland.  Dance ministry. My new life in Christ.  So, I assumed he had moved on too.  But, no, he was waiting for me.

I was so taken aback by his question that I had no idea how to respond except to be truthful.  So, I reached across the table and put my hand on his and said, "Oh Jamie, I'm so sorry, but no."  

And so, over the next couple of years, on occasion, Jamie would corner me and ask, "Has God told you anything about me?"  I would always say, "No."  And he would be cool as a cucumber. He did tell me once, though, that God told him I was the one he would marry and he was just supposed to wait for me.  At times, I would be frustrated, rude and blunt.  I was totally convinced we would never end up together.  

He finally started dating someone new.  They were together for 3 years.  And then one day he called me and said they were over.  They fought all the time.  He wanted to know why he and I had never argued.  He wanted to come up to Orange County and take me to dinner.  I tried to discourage him, but he was persistent, so I tried to find the most un-romantic restaurant I could think of.  So, I found a place called "The Barn."  LOL!  I had knee surgery.  He came up to take care of me.  I moved.  He came up to move my things...numerous times...even when I was overseas on cruise ship contracts.  He was always there helping me.  You already know how he comforted me so much through my abortion.  

On my second cruise, my Grandfather became very ill.  He had heart surgery the day before I went to the ship.  He was fine when I left, but his condition worsened and my communication with family was very limited because we were coming through Central America and the Panama Canal.  I was able to call from Mexico days before we ported in San Diego and discovered my precious Grandpa was in and out of ICU.  He sounded terrible.  I prayed he would hold on until the ship arrived in San Diego.  On a Friday morning, I woke early.  Got myself together and waited until the ship was clear to disembark.  I rushed up to the open top deck and stood on a platform.  My family, Jamie, and his parents were on the embarcadero.  I shouted to them and they all waved.  I waited impatiently to get off the ship and as soon as I was off, I jumped in my mom's car and all of us rushed to the hospital where my Grandpa was back in the ICU.  I went in to see him.  He was able to open his eyes and I could see he was trying to talk to me, but no sound came out.  My Uncle Troy stood on the other side of the bed.  My Grandpa just stared at me and I at him...trying not to cry.  Troy said, "Hey Dad, Kori's good medicine, eh?"  And my Grandpa nodded his head.  What a gift to me in those last moments I would ever see my beloved Grandpa!  He squeezed my hand and then I had to go.  I had to return to the ship.  Why?  Why didn't I just stay off that stupid ship?  A major regret of my life.  

The following Monday, I arrived in Vancouver.  I called my mom.  My Uncle Todd spoke to me.  They were making the very difficult decision to take my Grandpa off life support.  I hesitated and clung to the phone, not wanting to hang up.  As long as I held the phone line open, my Grandpa was alive.  But I knew that after I hung up, the decision would be made and he would be gone.  I loved my Grandpa so desperately.  He was so special. He was my only father figure for most of my life.  I treasured him more than I can ever express.  My Grandpa had a round head and a crew cut.  He would sit on the leather chair in the living room, and read his paper and I would brush the palm of my hand across the short hairs on top of his head and tell him he needed a haircut and kiss him on his head.  He called me "Coke" and he often told me, "Honey, don't ever change."  He appreciated my crazy energy and spunk.  I knew I meant all the world to him...all of us grandchildren were special to him.  And I may be delusional in saying this but I always felt like I was the most special.  I was the first grandchild.  In truth, I doubt I was any more special than any other, but he made me feel that way.  He was special.

And so, that Monday, my Grandpa breathed his last and I was not there for it.  But Jamie.  He was in the hospital that day.  He wasn't in the room, but he was there.  I thought nothing of it at the time.  But, now it means all the world to me. 

Jamie has been present during the greatest tragedies of my life.  A year earlier, I had returned from Europe after an ugly end to my first cruise ship contract.  He was at the airport...with a rose in hand.  I have a picture of us hugging.  But, again, I didn't give it a second thought at the time.

And so several years passed.

In 2002, the Monday before Jamie's graduation from the Academy was the 8 year anniversary of my abortion.  Although it had been a good day, I wished that someone could share it with me and then I wished it could be Jamie.  I wrote him a letter I never planned on giving to him and found old letters of his.  I had read his letters before and always tossed them aside and all of a sudden I found myself reading the very same letters and sobbing my heart out.  I couldn't believe that someone would love me that much.  I felt more and more drawn to him and all I could think of was 1 John 4:19, "We love Him because He first loved us."  It was Jamie's love that was drawing me back to him.  The Lord began opening my eyes to everything Jamie had done for me, even beyond his wonderful support during the roughest time of my life.  He was the first person I called when my dance ministry broke up.  All along he had always made sacrifices for me.

I flew to Sacramento the following Thursday evening to meet him for the graduation.  In spite of my very late flight and his having to be up very early, he still said he would meet me at the airport, stating, "It will only prove that I love you."

The graduation was a test for me.  How will I feel when I see him?  I just stepped back and waited.  Nothing.  He held my hand on the return to the airport...and I didn't pull my hand away.

Upon returning home, I found myself praying like crazy because I just didn't know what to do.  I was reading Choosing God's Best:

Christians don't follow a dream, they follow God's revelation.  They look toward the Revealer.

For the Lord does not see as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but God looks at the heart. ~1 Sam. 16:7

If you find yourself falling for a girl who offers you only casual friendship, or worse, the cold shoulder, first get it settled with God that she is the one to pursue.  Even if a woman tells a man to "get lost" but he knows in his heart that she's the right one, he can still wait and pray for God's timing.  I know of many married couples whose courtship began this way." ~Elisabeth Elliot 

So, this is pretty obvious, right?  Still, I didn't want to over-spiritualize or be looking for things, so I tried to keep a level head.  (Ok, you can stop laughing now.  I know level-headedness is not one of my character qualities.)  I just wanted to be very sure before I shared anything of what I felt with him because I cared about him deeply and didn't want to wound his heart over something I may or may not be certain about.  So, I prayed that the Lord would give me a great big flashing neon sign!

The next evening, Jamie called.  He had moved to L.A. over the weekend and wanted to come see me.  I wondered if the Lord wanted me to share with him what was on my heart.  I prayed and waited.  Nothing.  After a couple of hours he got up to leave.  I was convinced I wasn't to say anything.

early dating days of '92

I  stood to hug him and found I could not let go.  Even if I tried, I would not have been able to tear myself from him.  So I clung to him and started shaking.  HOW TOTALLY EMBARRASSING!!!  ...and weird!  He asked, "Are you ok?"  I said, "Yes."  He asked, "Are you trembling or is that me?"  "It's me," I said.  Then I blurted out, "I don't know what's going on, but I've been missing you and thinking of you."  I think he was in shock.  So, he pulled me over to the couch so we could talk.  He told me he had been praying for the Lord to change my heart for years...but especially the past month and a half.

Well, it worked!  I finally saw in him everything I always wanted.

And Jesus said, "Do you believe I am able to do this?"

They said to Him, "Yes, Lord."

Then He touched their eyes saying, "Let it be done to you according to your faith."

~Matthew 9:28-29

We were married 4 months later.







P.S. Join me in the Completing Him Challenge.  I am several months behind, but hey!  Better late than never!

My computer is off and I like it.

I love turning my computer off.
Well, honestly it's a little hard at first.  You know, shutting down my lifeline to the world...but once I've done it, it feels right and I have more time for real life.  Real moments.  Real conversations.  Real, tangible PEOPLE.  Not that you reading this are not tangible, but while I write, in that moment the only tangible thing is a digital, gray box with lots of buttons, no color, no personality...except the occasional insubordination in the form of lethargy, deletion of everything I just wrote, and other ways computers tend to act up and misbehave.

I guess I have a love/hate relationship with my computer, the internet, and even my cell phone at times.  I often cringe when my cell phone rings.  Who is it?  Will they require work?  Will they ask a question I don't know the answer to? I notice this bad attitude in myself more during parade crunch time (like now).  Stress time.

At my original writing of this post, I write in my journal.  Remember those?  You know...paper. pen.  The old-fashioned way.  One thing I do love about my computer is I can type much faster than I can write, so the thoughts have more of a chance to be recorded than with a pen.  Although, I actually enjoy very much hand writing.  Anyway, I mention my time on pen and paper because there is a reason I did it this way originally.

FEAR.

I'm afraid to turn my computer on.

How many more emails are in my inbox?  I was sitting at well over 200 when I shut down yesterday.  Who has criticized my latest facebook post?

Bottom line: What will I have to deal with when I turn my computer on?  What unknowns await me that will keep me in virtual-land longer than I intend?  (Mostly because I am drawn in and have zero self-control.)

I like the time when my computer is O-F-F.

Maybe I should just invest in a typewriter.

CWA Training

a bumper sticker: 

"Please don't tell Obama what comes after a trillion."

Yesterday, I attended a Concerned Women for America (CWA) training.  

Secularism can't control without first destroying Judeo-Christian worldview or removing every perception of it in the public square. 

Liberals demand the government take care of the problems resulting from irresponsible behavior.  ~Dr. Janice Shaw Crouse

The latter of the above quotes smacked me across the face when I heard it.  Government-funded abortion because people are sexually promiscuous.  And let's not even talk about all the ways the government takes care of illegals, sluggards, criminals, etc.  Bailouts.  Really.  We REWARD irresponsibility.  No wonder we are going to hell in a hand-basket.

another bumper sticker:  

"Politicians & diapers - 2 things that need constant changing"

Preach the Word!  Be ready in season and out of season.  Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching.  For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables.  But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry. ~2 Timothy 4:2-5

We must call our nation and its leaders to accountability.  People live according to the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life (1 Jn. 2:16).  It is sick and it is wrong.  They want to be validated in their immorality and sin.  They want the churches and the government to approve of them so they don't have to feel bad about their godless behavior.  The government is certainly accommodating...and many churches are as well.  Churches that claim to be Christian...but are not in truth.  Call me judgmental.  Call me a bigot.  Whatever.  Whoever will lead one of these little ones astray, it would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck and he was hurled into the depths of the sea (Mt. 18:6).  Jesus said that.  If people aren't speaking the truth from the pulpit, then they are leading people astray.  False teachers.  And the Bible isn't tolerant of it (2 Peter 2).

Getting a pic with CEO, Penny Nance (in silver blouse).
The beautiful lady on my left is Ruth Smith, my director.

2 Timothy also says we must endure afflictions.  Well, we are certainly going through afflictions now in this country.  And it seems we are to expect them.  Affliction is what strengthens us and causes us to lean harder on Jesus.  Can't be all bad.  As Penny Nance said, "We aren't called to win, but we are called to fight."  And as my beloved Sally Clarkson said, "When you take a stand, you become a target."  So, let's not be discouraged.  If you are comfortably serving in your ministry, the you are probably not doing all you need to do.  EXPECT AFFLICTION.  I will not offer to my God that which costs me nothing (2 Sam. 24:24).  (Mario Diaz was powerful with this message yesterday.)  

The Christian on his knees sees more than the philosopher on tiptoe. ~D.L. Moody

Peace and prosperity do not come from elections.  

Peace and prosperity come from God.  He is in control. 

~Mike Mears (CWA)

P.S. I won an Uncle Sam Big Brother Obama "I Want Your Money" bobble head!  I never win anything.  I'm soooo excited.  It's in my patriotic guest room and is my pride and joy.  LOL!

P.P.S. I was able to crash with my prayer partner, Kari.  She made me the most beautiful breakfast.  I had to take a picture of it.  Yummy!

Pray for the USA, week of September 19

The Defense Authorization Bill could go to a cloture vote this week.  Within this bill is the repeal of Don’t Ask Don’t Tell as well as an abortion provision. (via Citizen Link)

Repealing DADT:  1. introduces more sexual tension in the barracks of our troops – who must rely upon each other – thus threatening their safety and morale.  2. Endangers the religious-liberty rights of chaplains and servicemen and women to share their beliefs about God’s design for human sexuality. 3. There is also a provision to this appropriations bill to allow abortions to be performed on military bases, at home and abroad. (This expands the funding and availability of abortion greatly when coupled with the recently passed healthcare bill.  Which naturally leads to more preborn lives lost.)

• Call your U.S. Senators and urge them to vote agains the Defense Authorization Bill unless the DADT and abortion provisions are removed.
• In California, Barbara Boxer (202) 224-3553, fax: (202) 228-3865 & Dianne Feinstein (202) 224-3841, fax: (202) 228-3954
• Or, go here to access the CitizenLink Action Center for more information and to send a message directly to your senators on this issue.

Proposition 23 would suspend AB32, "The Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006" which is a California "Cap & Trade" bill. (via North County Conservatives & Yes on 23)

Cap & Trade redistributes wealth and will be devastating to businesses, personal property rights, private energy usage, etc.  It is another way that big government is barging it's way into your personal life and your home.  High regulation and high energy fees.

• Vote yes on 23. 

WOW.

untitled ~ 9/11

Our deeply memorialized September 11th has come and gone.  How I wish I would have paid it more attention.

I am currently reading "Patriotic Grace" by Peggy Noonan.  Her references to that grievous day and the direction our country has gone since...both in politics and in civil unity...or lack thereof.  What a sad state of affairs we are in where a shocking disaster such as 9/11 knit us together so solidly as Americans for a time and yet we look about us today and see nastiness, criticism, and intolerance of those who don't agree with us.

Yes, I am guilty of this too.  Mostly because I feel like my children are in danger.  It is hard to be tolerant of those who are destroying my children's future.  And we can't assume that everyone has the good of everyone else in mind.  That would be naive and foolish to assume.  So, we wonder about the motives of our leaders, and test them as best we can from so far away.

Lord, please protect my children from a government that may seek total control over them, their education, their parents, their occupations, their money, their property, their food, their ammunition, their sexual orientation, their innocence, their religion.

"Act as though it's all up to me; Pray as though it's all up to Him." 

-my new favorite quote.

May we hold tight to the indignation, the patriotism, the unity, the drive for justice that we felt so strongly 9 years ago.  May those directly affected be deeply comforted in their great loss.

Bless you,

SLOOOOW DOOOWWNN

Oh, I've missed you.

I sit here for a moment next to the door to our back yard where the squeals of two little boys delight my heart.  Daddy can make them laugh like no one else.

"Marco."
"Polo."
"Fish out of water?"
"No!"
...SPLASH!!

I LOVE THESE BOYS.  

Huntington Beach.  They were "retreating" from the British (waves)...
yeah, I guess we spend a lot of time on Revolutionary War history.
We saw 3 dolphins, too.  Thank You, God!

Life can get to such a breakneck pace sometimes that we hardly have time to think, let alone write a thought.  I love this outlet and have found such peace in writing my thoughts here and am so thankful for those of you who check in periodically to inquire what my latest rogue post is.  :)

Si's photo shoot with Petunia during a recent outing. 

a couple of those friends I hugged.  Glen & Geryl.
Met them when I danced in the Lion King Parade.

September 2010 is only 14 days old and I have co-hosted a Mom's Tea, made 3 trips to Orange County, choreographed, taught 5 dance classes (that's just in the last 5 days), seen many treasured friends and hugged them all, and there is still half the month to go.  Of course in the midst of all this, I attend to my husband (I hope he feels the same way. heehee!), snuggle with my children, school them, feed them, try to read a book or two, attempt to stay on top of emails and facebook messages.... Whew!
I am a personality that likes a lot of action.  But, I think I am more a personality that likes to breathe, take in my surroundings, and not miss out on precious opportunities that may never pass my way again.

"Bloom where you're planted."  

"Wherever you are, be all there."  

Yes.

Or as my Grandma used to always say to me when I talked too fast for her, "Kori, honey, sloooooow dooooowwwwn."  It sure would be nice to have her here to tell me that now.

A major thing I have done recently is expose my deep, dark secret for all the world to see.  And the response has been incredible.  Thank you so much.  How I treasure you all.  God has given me new friends who have connected to my very heart and dear friends who have become dearer.  Thank you for reading my very long story and letting it become a part of you.  I can't express what that means to me.  Nothing is in vain when it is done in the Lord.

With our dear Geryl, undoubtedly one of the most beautiful people I know.

Love you so,

Register to vote online

If you're not registered to vote, do it now.  It is very easy and it is your responsibility.

http://www.cwfa.org/vote.asp

And be well-informed on the candidates and issues.  I will be updating my previous post on voter issues as the midterm election draws nearer.



One word of advice:  Barbara Boxer has to go!  Yeah, I feel pretty strongly about that one.  She is against parents (pushing hard for the UNCRC), she's against children (pro-abortion advocate for decades), and she's all for herself ("Don't call me, ma'am!").  Vote her OUT!


And that's what I think about that.

Dancers, present your bodies a living sacrifice

I am teaching a class tomorrow at Saddleback for their dance ministry and I'm so nervous!!!

Why?  I've danced a zillion times in a zillion venues.  I have danced in worship since I first realized I could, and I prefer dancing to Him far above cruise ships, Disneyland, theater, whatever.

I'm nervous because I want to be sure that I communicate the true heart of worship...and, in all honesty, a wee bit because I know my dancing is not "current" according to the world's standards.  What will they think of me?  I hope they don't think of me, but only of Him.

Dancers are a unique sort:  artistic, diva-ish, emotional, creative, competitive.  Some of us are ruthless and cut-throat.  Some of us want to look out for others and to help.  "Are you having trouble with that part of the routine?  Here, let me help you."  Maybe it is sometimes self-serving.  If I can teach it to someone else then I will know it better myself.  Maybe we empathize with those who have trouble picking up the routine because we ourselves have been in that position before.  It is embarrassing and frustrating.

beautiful Marilyn - technician and worshiper

But dance for worship of God...  Everything we know as dancers goes absolutely against the humility, tenderness, selflessness required to take our eyes off us, and set them wholly on Him.  We've been conditioned to look out for number one.  We really need to be looking up to the ONE.

And lifting up their eyes, they saw no one, save Jesus only. ~Mt. 17:8

I often think of this verse when I dance.  "There are going to be a bunch of eyes on me.  Jesus, I want to look up and see only You.  I want to see You in each face.  I want to dance for You.  I want to love them like You.  Help me love them through my dancing."

The technician and worship:  We must get past our ability/training and focus on our motive.

Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal.  And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, to that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.  And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing. ~1 Cor. 13:1-3

If I may... "Though I dance like a genius, can do fifty fouette turns and fly through the air with my legs wrapped around my head, but have not love, it profits me nothing...in the eternal perspective."  What did Jesus say, "I assure you, he has his reward."  Are we dancing for all the world to see and commend us, or are we dancing for "no one, save Jesus only?"  Are we laying up our treasure in heaven?

Winnie dancing her heart.

I actually had a girl quit my dance ministry once (in a huff) because I "never put her in front."  She was amazing. A sweet, beautiful and talented girl with the most fantastic presence.  She thought that I didn't like her dancing.  What a shame...for both of us.  I clearly should have communicated to her what a stunning dancer she was and not assumed that she already knew.  And she shouldn't have presumed to know what I was thinking.  The relationship, though I have apologized and taken the full blame, was never reconciled.

In the same instance, another dancer told me she was so thankful to dance that she'd "dance in a closet as long as she could do it for Jesus."

That is the heart.

Eureka!

The Gold Rush!  

What another fantastically fascinating time in our American history.  We truly are a people of adventure, courage, and commitment.

We found a handful of great reads:

• Boom Town by Sonia Levitin.  A little girl's determination to learn how to make a pie and how it created a boom town.
• By The Great Horn Spoon by Sid Fleischman.  About a boy and his butler from Boston who go for the gold via the long trek around South America, and the adventures and self-discovery they encounter along the way.
• You Wouldn't Want To Be An American Pioneer by Jacquelyn Morley is great for a humorous look at the dangers, adaptability, and resourcefulness of those who headed west.
• Would You Go For The Gold? by Elaine Landau gives the kids a chance to think about what they may have done during the Gold Rush.

The cherry on top of our study of this era came last Saturday.  The boys, my mom, and I made our way up to Julian with the intent of doing some "gold" panning, however when we sat down for lunch, a brochure on the table invited us to visit Smith Ranch for a train and gold mine tour, so we went for it.  The Ranch is owned by an LDS family.  They were warm and friendly and had their 1 1/2 hour tour down to a science.  The highlight for me was a letter from the wife's great uncle who was a miner.  The tattered paper had been written on front and back horizontally and then turned on it's side and written vertically as well.  Why?  Because postage for the letter cost $5 in a time where a month's salary was approximately $17 and, as mentioned before, being resourceful was at the forefront of these folk's mind.   

It was an outstanding time!  We even donned hardhats to venture into a damp, cool mine which was actually quite refreshing since it was a warm hot Julian day.  The kids bumped their way into the mine via train car...smiles in abundance.  We panned for "gold" and the kids exchanged their find at the assayer's office for licorice.

Ready to go in the mine!

I highly recommend this super fun time.

To all cat lovers... or not.

I am known for my loathing of cats.  haha!  This is one of the best things I've ever seen.  Enjoy!  (Even a cat-lover has to admit that this is funny.)  It was forwarded to me by my sis...I have to give credit where credit is due.

_____________________

Missing Missy -


Hi David,


I opened the screen door yesterday and my cat got out and has been missing since then so I was wondering if you are not to busy you could make a poster for me. It has to be A4 and I will photocopy it and put it around my suburb this afternoon.

This is the only photo of her I have she answers to the name Missy and is black and white and about 8 months old. missing on Harper street and my phone number.
Thanks Shan.
From: David Thorne
Date: Monday 21 June 2010 9.26am
To: Shannon Walkley
Subject: Re: Poster

Dear Shannon,
That is shocking news. Luckily I was sitting down when I read your email and not half way up a ladder or tree. How are you holding up? I am surprised you managed to attend work at all what with thinking about Missy out there cold, frightened and alone... possibly lying on the side of the road, her back legs squashed by a vehicle, calling out "Shannon, where are you?"
Although I have two clients expecting completed work this afternoon, I will, of course, drop everything and do whatever it takes to facilitate the speedy return of Missy.
Regards, David. 

From: Shannon Walkley
Date: Monday 21 June 2010 9.37am
To: David Thorne
Subject: Re: Re: Poster

yeah ok thanks. I know you dont like cats but I am really worried about mine. I have to leave at 1pm today.

From: David Thorne
Date: Monday 21 June 2010 10.17am
To: Shannon Walkley
Subject: Re: Re: Re: Poster

Dear Shannon,
I never said I don't like cats. Once, having been invited to a party, I went clothes shopping beforehand and bought a pair of expensive G-Star boots. They were two sizes too small but I wanted them so badly I figured I could just wear them without socks and cut my toenails very short. As the party was only a few blocks from my place, I decided to walk. After the first block, I lost all feeling in my feet. Arriving at the party, I stumbled into a guy named Steven, spilling Malibu & coke onto his white Wham 'Choose Life' t-shirt, and he punched me. An hour or so after the incident, Steven sat down in a chair already occupied by a cat. The surprised cat clawed and snarled causing Steven to leap out of the chair, slip on a rug and strike his forehead onto the corner of a speaker; resulting in a two inch open gash. In its shock, the cat also defecated, leaving Steven with a foul stain down the back of his beige cargo pants. I liked that cat.
Attached poster as requested.
Regards, David. 


From: Shannon Walkley
Date: Monday 21 June 2010 10.24am
To: David Thorne
Subject: Re: Re: Re: Re: Poster

yeah thats not what I was looking for at all. it looks like a movie and how come the photo of Missy is so small?

From: David Thorne
Date: Monday 21 June 2010 10.28am
To: Shannon Walkley
Subject: Re: Re: Re: Re: Poster

Dear Shannon,
It's a design thing. The cat is lost in the negative space.
Regards, David. 

From: Shannon Walkley
Date: Monday 21 June 2010 10.33am
To: David Thorne
Subject: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Poster

Thats just stupid. Can you do it properly please? I am extremely emotional over this and was up all night in tears. You seem to think it is funny. Can you make the photo bigger please and fix the text and do it in colour please. Thanks.


From: David Thorne
Date: Monday 21 June 2010 10.46am
To: Shannon Walkley
Subject: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Poster

Dear Shannon,
Having worked with designers for a few years now, I would have assumed you understood, despite our vague suggestions otherwise, we do not welcome constructive criticism. I don't come downstairs and tell you how to send text messages, log onto Facebook and look out of the window. I am willing to overlook this faux pas due to you no doubt being preoccupied with thoughts of Missy attempting to make her way home across busy intersections or being trapped in a drain as it slowly fills with water. I spent three days down a well once but that was just for fun.
I have amended and attached the poster as per your instructions.
Regards, David.


From: Shannon Walkley
Date: Monday 21 June 2010 10.59am
To: David Thorne
Subject: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Poster

This is worse than the other one. can you make it so it shows the whole photo of Missy and delete the stupid text that says missing missy off it? I just want it to say Lost.

From: David Thorne
Date: Monday 21 June 2010 11.14am
To: Shannon Walkley
Subject: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Poster


From: Shannon Walkley
Date: Monday 21 June 2010 11.21am
To: David Thorne
Subject: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Poster

yeah can you do the poster or not? I just want a photo and the word lost and the telephone number and when and where she was lost and her name. Not like a movie poster or anything stupid. I have to leave early today. If it was your cat I would help you. Thanks.

From: David Thorne
Date: Monday 21 June 2010 11.32am
To: Shannon Walkley
Subject: Awww

Dear Shannon,
I don't have a cat. I once agreed to look after a friend's cat for a week but after he dropped it off at my apartment and explained the concept of kitty litter, I kept the cat in a closed cardboard box in the shed and forgot about it. If I wanted to feed something and clean faeces, I wouldn't have put my mother in that home after her stroke. A week later, when my friend came to collect his cat, I pretended that I was not home and mailed the box to him. Apparently I failed to put enough stamps on the package and he had to collect it from the post office and pay eighteen dollars. He still goes on about that sometimes, people need to learn to let go.
I have attached the amended version of your poster as per your detailed instructions.
Regards, David. 


From: Shannon Walkley
Date: Monday 21 June 2010 11.47am
To: David Thorne
Subject: Re: Awww

Thats not my cat. Where did you get that picture from? That cat is orange. I gave you a photo of my cat.

From: David Thorne
Date: Monday 21 June 2010 11.58am
To: Shannon Walkley
Subject: Re: Re: Awww

I know, but that one is cute. As Missy has quite possibly met any one of several violent ends, it is possible you might get a better cat out of this. If anybody calls and says "I haven't seen your orange cat but I did find a black and white one with its hind legs run over by a car, do you want it?" you can politely decline and save yourself a costly veterinarian bill.
I knew someone who had a basset hound that had its hind legs removed after an accident and it had to walk around with one of those little buggies with wheels. If it had been my dog I would have asked for all its legs to be removed and replaced with wheels and had a remote control installed. I could charge neighbourhood kids for rides and enter it in races. If I did the same with a horse I could drive it to work. I would call it Steven.
Regards, David. 

From: Shannon Walkley
Date: Monday 21 June 2010 12.07pm
To: David Thorne
Subject: Re: Re: Re: Awww

Please just use the photo I gave you.

From: David Thorne
Date: Monday 21 June 2010 12.22pm
To: Shannon Walkley
Subject: Re: Re: Re: Re: Awww


From: Shannon Walkley
Date: Monday 21 June 2010 12.34pm
To: David Thorne
Subject: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Awww

I didnt say there was a reward. I dont have $2000 dollars. What did you even put that there for? Apart from that it is perfect can you please remove the reward bit. Thanks Shan.

From: David Thorne
Date: Monday 21 June 2010 12.42pm
To: Shannon Walkley
Subject: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Awww


From: Shannon Walkley
Date: Monday 21 June 2010 12.51pm
To: David Thorne
Subject: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Awww

Can you just please take the reward bit off altogether? I have to leave in ten minutes and I still have to make photocopies of it.

From: David Thorne
Date: Monday 21 June 2010 12.56pm
To: Shannon Walkley
Subject: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Awww


From: Shannon Walkley
Date: Monday 21 June 2010 1.03pm
To: David Thorne
Subject: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Awww

Fine. That will have to do!