Ever since graduating from college, I have turned into such a TV junkie. Here are my favorite things about some of this week's tv viewing:
The Amazing Race
Last season was the first time I sat down and watched the show, and I absolutely loved it! I felt so connected to last season's teams, I didn't know how I would feel about this season's, but I think I'm liking them more than their predecessors.
Tuesday night's episode was especially emotional. First, when Gretchen fell down in the caves and had blood streaming down her face. Her husband, Meredith, was so scared, but I loved how determined she was to not give up and how she commanded him to find the clue while she was being tended to. I also admire her character in still being able to crack jokes despite their circumstances (with not just the accident but also coming in last place and losing all their money and belongings).
Then, there was the orphanage. The children were so sweet and it was so sad that the teams didn't have time to spend with them. I was trying not to cry during that bit, but it was especially hard when Uchenna and Joyce mentioned how it reinforced their decision to adopt.
The car accident the brothers Brian and Greg had was a bit scary as well. (As far as Rob and Amber go, I'm not surprised they didn't stop, but they could of at least taken 10 seconds to roll down their window and ask if everyone was okay. Where's the compassion, people?!) I was impressed that B&G prayed for their injured cameraman once they got back into the race. And I was so very excited that they came from behind to beat out Ray and Deana in a foot-race. My heart was pounding as I watched them. I really thought it was over for them once R&D got their clue, especially when they camera in the air showed B&G's car way behind R&D's. But they did it, and I'm sure their mamma's proud of them! Especially when they were hugging, crying, and saying "I love you, man" once they made it to the mat.
Lost
I am SO addicted to this show. It is absolutely brilliant. I love how everything is a mystery and you have to think and piece it all together.
Wednesday's episode was rather emotional as well. I was suspicious of Locke's father and once they showed him on dialysis, I knew it wasn't going to be a happy ending for Locke.
I can't wait for next week's episode. I hope Boone survives. Part of me thinks he will, but I don't want to be overly positive and end up being wrong. Strange things happen on that island, and I can totally see Boone suffering the same fate as his nanny did all those years ago.
Alias
I love that Marshall played such a huge role in this past episode and got to be the hero for once! I love his comic relief moments; they bring some breathing room to rather intense situations.
Although it was disgusting, I was in stiches over the random spork part (My paraphrase: Jack: You need something to cut his eyes out with. Marshall: [rummaging through a desk drawer Uh, I-I got a spork! Jack: A spork? What's that? Marshall: It's like a half spoon, half fork.)
And those aren't even all the shows I watch in a given week! My parents and I always catch 24 on Monday night. This is the first time we've watched it during the regular season (we watched the first 3 seasons on DVD), so it's driving me nuts not to be able to watch the next episode whenever I want.
I had to DVR The Apprentice and ER tonight. I'm not a die-hard fan of either show, but I watch them when I can. Since I'm caught up on The Apprentice I figure I'll hang in there until the end. Hopefully I'll watch them later this weekend. If not, oh well, I have plenty other things to do.
Then there's all the WB shows I love (Gilmore Girls, One Tree Hill, Everwood, and occasionally 7th Heaven). They've all been reruns this month, which is probably a good thing.
So, those are my addictions. What are yours???
Thursday, March 31, 2005
Sunday, March 27, 2005
Poem of the Day
Easter (I)
by George Herbert
Rise heart; thy Lord is risen. Sing His praise
Without delays,
Who takes thee by the hand, that thou likewise
With Him mayst rise:
That, as His death calcined thee to dust,
His life may make thee gold, and much more just.
Awake, my lute, and struggle for thy part
With all thy art.
The cross taught all wood to resound His name,
Who bore the same.
His stretched sinews taught all strings, what key
Is best to celebrate that most high day
Consort both heart and lute, and twist a song
Pleasant and long:
Or since all music is but three parts vied
And multiplied;
Oh let thy blessed Spirit bear a part,
And make up our defects with His sweet art.
by George Herbert
Rise heart; thy Lord is risen. Sing His praise
Without delays,
Who takes thee by the hand, that thou likewise
With Him mayst rise:
That, as His death calcined thee to dust,
His life may make thee gold, and much more just.
Awake, my lute, and struggle for thy part
With all thy art.
The cross taught all wood to resound His name,
Who bore the same.
His stretched sinews taught all strings, what key
Is best to celebrate that most high day
Consort both heart and lute, and twist a song
Pleasant and long:
Or since all music is but three parts vied
And multiplied;
Oh let thy blessed Spirit bear a part,
And make up our defects with His sweet art.
Saturday, March 26, 2005
Poem of the Day
[The Passion]
by George Herbert
Since blood is fittest, Lord, to write
Thy sorrows in, and bloody fight;
My heart hath store, write there, where in
One box doth lie both ink and sin:
That when sin spies so many foes,
Thy whips, thy nails, thy wounds, thy woes,
All come to lodge there, sin may say,
No room for me, and fly away.
Sin being gone, oh fill the place,
And keep possession with thy grace;
Lest sin take courage and return,
And all the writings blot or burn.
by George Herbert
Since blood is fittest, Lord, to write
Thy sorrows in, and bloody fight;
My heart hath store, write there, where in
One box doth lie both ink and sin:
That when sin spies so many foes,
Thy whips, thy nails, thy wounds, thy woes,
All come to lodge there, sin may say,
No room for me, and fly away.
Sin being gone, oh fill the place,
And keep possession with thy grace;
Lest sin take courage and return,
And all the writings blot or burn.
Friday, March 25, 2005
Poem of the Day
Good Friday
by George Herbert
Oh my chief good,
How shall I measure out thy blood?
How shall I count what thee befell,
And each grief tell?
Shall I thy woes
Number according to they foes?
Or, since one star show'd thy first breath,
Shall all thy death?
Or shall each leaf,
Which falls in Autumn, score a grief?
Or cannot leaves, but fruit, be sign
Of the true vine?
Then let each hour
Of my whole life one grief devour;
That thy distress through all may run,
And be my sun.
Or rather let
My several sins their sorrows get;
That as each beast his cure doth know,
Each sin may so.
by George Herbert
Oh my chief good,
How shall I measure out thy blood?
How shall I count what thee befell,
And each grief tell?
Shall I thy woes
Number according to they foes?
Or, since one star show'd thy first breath,
Shall all thy death?
Or shall each leaf,
Which falls in Autumn, score a grief?
Or cannot leaves, but fruit, be sign
Of the true vine?
Then let each hour
Of my whole life one grief devour;
That thy distress through all may run,
And be my sun.
Or rather let
My several sins their sorrows get;
That as each beast his cure doth know,
Each sin may so.
Thursday, March 24, 2005
Poem of the Day
The Agony
by George Herbert
Philosophers have measur'd mountains,
Fathom'd the depths of the seas, of states, and kings,
Walk'd with a staff to heav'n, and traced fountains:
But there are two vast, spacious things,
The which to measure it doth more behove:
Yet few there are that sound them; Sin and Love.
Who would know Sin, let him repair
Unto mount Olivet; there shall he see
A man so wrung with pains, that all his hair,
His skin, his garments bloody be.
Sin is that press and vice, which forceth pain
To hunt his cruel food through ev'ry vein.
Who knows not Love, let him assay
And taste that juice, which on the cross a pike
Did set again abroach, then let him say
If ever he did taste the like.
Love is that liquor sweet and most divine,
Which my God feels as blood; but I, as wine
by George Herbert
Philosophers have measur'd mountains,
Fathom'd the depths of the seas, of states, and kings,
Walk'd with a staff to heav'n, and traced fountains:
But there are two vast, spacious things,
The which to measure it doth more behove:
Yet few there are that sound them; Sin and Love.
Who would know Sin, let him repair
Unto mount Olivet; there shall he see
A man so wrung with pains, that all his hair,
His skin, his garments bloody be.
Sin is that press and vice, which forceth pain
To hunt his cruel food through ev'ry vein.
Who knows not Love, let him assay
And taste that juice, which on the cross a pike
Did set again abroach, then let him say
If ever he did taste the like.
Love is that liquor sweet and most divine,
Which my God feels as blood; but I, as wine
Monday, March 14, 2005
Please pray for the Gulleys
Nearly everyone at my old church in Waco knows the Gulleys. Carl is the youth pastor, James Mark leads worship, and Jonathan and his wife are leading the church plant in Chicago. The younger sons are Stephen (who I think is finishing up college) and Jeffrey (who I think was in college). I've met all of them, but only somewhat know James Mark. However, I have many friends who are very close to at least one of the Gulleys.
Right now there are about 500 college students spending a week in Juarez, Mexico for the annual spring break mission trip. According to an email sent out by our pastor, last night Jeffrey Gulley was helping lead worship at one of the ministry sites when he collapsed and his heart stopped. Pastor Jimmy explained that there was a fireman on the scene who immediately started CPR. And he, Jonathan and Stephen Gulley were also in the same area and started praying. An ambulance arrived within 10 minutes to transport him to the hospital. At the hospital they worked on him for at least 30 more minutes, but they finally came out and said there was nothing more they could do.
Jimmy said that while they were praying for Jeffrey they felt the Lord speak John 11:25 : And the Lord said to [Martha], "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live even though he dies." This word gave them peace and faith to trust that the Lord is in control.
I'm amazed at the Gulley's response: "The Gulley's have expressed that the way you can honor them and to honor Jeffrey is to draw closer to Jesus, knowing we will receive mercy and help in our time of need. "
Jonathan Gulley also wrote in the email:
I end this post with the lyrics to a song James Mark wrote for Jeffrey about a year and a half ago. You can hear a portion of it here, from the World Mandate '04 cd.
Ransom (for Jeffrey)
by James Mark Gulley
I call to God
And the Lord saves me
Evening and morning and noon
I cry out to You
And You hear me
You hear my voice
And You ransom me
And You set me free
From my enemy
And You render him powerless
In my need
You sing a song of deliverance
Over me
You wave a banner of lovingkindness
You will sustain me
You won't let us fall
'Cause You're the eternal King
Right now there are about 500 college students spending a week in Juarez, Mexico for the annual spring break mission trip. According to an email sent out by our pastor, last night Jeffrey Gulley was helping lead worship at one of the ministry sites when he collapsed and his heart stopped. Pastor Jimmy explained that there was a fireman on the scene who immediately started CPR. And he, Jonathan and Stephen Gulley were also in the same area and started praying. An ambulance arrived within 10 minutes to transport him to the hospital. At the hospital they worked on him for at least 30 more minutes, but they finally came out and said there was nothing more they could do.
Jimmy said that while they were praying for Jeffrey they felt the Lord speak John 11:25 : And the Lord said to [Martha], "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live even though he dies." This word gave them peace and faith to trust that the Lord is in control.
I'm amazed at the Gulley's response: "The Gulley's have expressed that the way you can honor them and to honor Jeffrey is to draw closer to Jesus, knowing we will receive mercy and help in our time of need. "
Jonathan Gulley also wrote in the email:
Jeffrey gave his life to the Lord in August of 2004. As I was thinking about all the years we had spent praying and contending for Jeffrey, I felt God ask me this question in a very kind and Fatherly way 'Wasn't it worth it?' As a family, we grieve because of our loss but we feel victory because Jeff stands in the presence of God, he worshipped his way into Heaven.
I end this post with the lyrics to a song James Mark wrote for Jeffrey about a year and a half ago. You can hear a portion of it here, from the World Mandate '04 cd.
Ransom (for Jeffrey)
by James Mark Gulley
I call to God
And the Lord saves me
Evening and morning and noon
I cry out to You
And You hear me
You hear my voice
And You ransom me
And You set me free
From my enemy
And You render him powerless
In my need
You sing a song of deliverance
Over me
You wave a banner of lovingkindness
You will sustain me
You won't let us fall
'Cause You're the eternal King
Thursday, March 10, 2005
Not-so-Mystery, Not-so-Fertilizer
A couple of months ago (check the January archives if you're curious... meow) it was revealed that it was indeed my adorable little Siamese kitty who was illegally fertilizing our potted plant(s). Perhaps I was a bit too lax with her sentence. Yesterday, I spotted her fertilizing in my room. And I don't HAVE potted plants in my room. (Suffice it to say I had to sprint for the carpet-cleaner spray...)
What I am trying to figure out is if her actions yesterday sprung from premature senility (she isn't even 5 years old in people years) or overt protest regarding the litterbox cleanliness. If she had only waited just a LITTLE bit longer...
My issue now is re-evaluating her initial sentencing of litterbox re-training. I may need to upgrade it to house arrest. I wonder if PetSmart carries a good electronic tracking device for felines...
What I am trying to figure out is if her actions yesterday sprung from premature senility (she isn't even 5 years old in people years) or overt protest regarding the litterbox cleanliness. If she had only waited just a LITTLE bit longer...
My issue now is re-evaluating her initial sentencing of litterbox re-training. I may need to upgrade it to house arrest. I wonder if PetSmart carries a good electronic tracking device for felines...
Friday, March 04, 2005
Interview Meme
I decided to jump on the bandwagon when I was over at the Thinklings late one night.
Manders interviewed Jared, Jared interviewed Bill, so now Bill is interviewing me.
Here's how it works:
-I was one of the first five people to respond to Bill's post, so I made the cut to be interviewed.
-I answer the questions here, at my blog, and the first five people to leave a comment will be interviewed by me (((that means you people actually have to leave comments; even you quiet ones who read but never say anything. I'd love to hear who you are =o) ))).
-Answer your interview questions in a post at your own blog, or leave them in the comments here if you don't have a blog.
-The first five people who comment on your answers are then interviewed by you!
Hope that makes sense!
Here we go:
1. Given a choice, would you rather be rich or poor?
This is a tough one. I'll probably go with the former, although many of you reading this will think, "Oh, yeah, of course she'll choose that one, who wouldn't?" Assuming that this transformation will take place right at this moment (rather than me being born one way or the other) I'd choose rich. I've always joked with my family, telling them that they need to pray for a rich husband for me because that's the only way we'll all be rich. It just kills me, seeing my family struggling financially and I would do anything to lift that burden from them. I also have at least a dozen friends ministering overseas and I would love to help support them as well.
However, not having much money causes you to fully rely on God. We've been in very tough situations and the only way we made it through was God miraculously provided. When you're "poor" you get to experience God in ways that the rich will never be able to.
Do you understand my dilemma? That's why I say if it were an transformation that took place at this moment in life I would say rich. But I consider myself fortunate to have not been born into a rich family. Personally, I don't think I would have the same depth in my relationship with God if I was born rich.
Hmmm...hope that makes sense to you...
2. What do you see yourself doing in ten years?
Oi, another tough one! I don't even know what I'll be doing in two years, yet alone ten years. Hopefully by then I will be married with kids, but I don't know where we'll be living or if I'll be working. Honestly, I'd love to be a professor (teaching religion and literature), but I don't know if that will ever happen. I'll also be more than content to stay home with my children. I wouldn't be surprised if I'm overseas somewhere.
If I didn't have my security in God, I would almost think I'm a little unambitious . . .
3. You can have either the intellect of Einstein, the compassion of Mother Theresa, or the wisdom of Solomon. Which do you choose?
Definitely NOT the intellect of Einstein (I'm afraid my brain would explode).
The wisdom of Solomon sounds good, but even Solomon was able to screw that up. What good did all the wisdom do him if he didn't completely obey what God told him?
So I'll go with the compassion of Mother Theresa, but not just b/c of the process of elimination.
One of the elders at my former church had the opportunity to meet Mother Theresa when he went to India after college. He asked her what kept her going, how she could do all she did. His Baylor educated, southern Baptist mind wasn't expecting this answer: With tears in her eyes, she looked at him and said, "As a bride loves her bridegroom, so I love Jesus Christ."
I can only imagine what it would be like to have that depth of intimacy with Jesus. To love Him so much that you forsake ALL that the world values to love those rejected by society, to lie down alongside and hold the dying, to feed the hungry, and to open your heart and arms to the orphans the way that Mother Theresa did.
4. If given a chance to live on the International Space Station for one week would you take it?
Heck yeah!!! I must admit that I don't know much about it, but how could one pass up that opportunity??? Sure there are drawbacks, such as the no gravity thing, but I think overall it would be an amazing experience. It would be awesome to see earth from space and would put life into perspective.
5. What is your best memory of being in England?
Okay, this is the hardest question to answer.
I posted about this experience back in January, so I'll pick another . . . .
But I can't! I can't narrow it down to just ONE "best memory." The whole experience was life-changing and full of best memories. I learned so much and I made so many good friends!
If you have the time, I would suggest reading the archives from July through September if you want to find my "best memory."
Ok, seriously, the times I hung out with people were the best memories. Like at my going away party. I couldn't believe so many people showed up!
My birthday was also special. I had only been in England for two weeks and I had to work the day of my birthday. I've never been away from my family and friends on my birthday, so I was a little bummed. But I was greeted with gifts from my co-workers that night, a card signed by all the residents and staff, and a cake baked by one of the residents who used to be a chef. AND another resident went out and bought me a little gift and pastry. That meant the most - Here was this jobless, homeless man who went out of his way to make sure I had something special for my birthday. Maybe that was my best memory.
Manders interviewed Jared, Jared interviewed Bill, so now Bill is interviewing me.
Here's how it works:
-I was one of the first five people to respond to Bill's post, so I made the cut to be interviewed.
-I answer the questions here, at my blog, and the first five people to leave a comment will be interviewed by me (((that means you people actually have to leave comments; even you quiet ones who read but never say anything. I'd love to hear who you are =o) ))).
-Answer your interview questions in a post at your own blog, or leave them in the comments here if you don't have a blog.
-The first five people who comment on your answers are then interviewed by you!
Hope that makes sense!
Here we go:
1. Given a choice, would you rather be rich or poor?
This is a tough one. I'll probably go with the former, although many of you reading this will think, "Oh, yeah, of course she'll choose that one, who wouldn't?" Assuming that this transformation will take place right at this moment (rather than me being born one way or the other) I'd choose rich. I've always joked with my family, telling them that they need to pray for a rich husband for me because that's the only way we'll all be rich. It just kills me, seeing my family struggling financially and I would do anything to lift that burden from them. I also have at least a dozen friends ministering overseas and I would love to help support them as well.
However, not having much money causes you to fully rely on God. We've been in very tough situations and the only way we made it through was God miraculously provided. When you're "poor" you get to experience God in ways that the rich will never be able to.
Do you understand my dilemma? That's why I say if it were an transformation that took place at this moment in life I would say rich. But I consider myself fortunate to have not been born into a rich family. Personally, I don't think I would have the same depth in my relationship with God if I was born rich.
Hmmm...hope that makes sense to you...
2. What do you see yourself doing in ten years?
Oi, another tough one! I don't even know what I'll be doing in two years, yet alone ten years. Hopefully by then I will be married with kids, but I don't know where we'll be living or if I'll be working. Honestly, I'd love to be a professor (teaching religion and literature), but I don't know if that will ever happen. I'll also be more than content to stay home with my children. I wouldn't be surprised if I'm overseas somewhere.
If I didn't have my security in God, I would almost think I'm a little unambitious . . .
3. You can have either the intellect of Einstein, the compassion of Mother Theresa, or the wisdom of Solomon. Which do you choose?
Definitely NOT the intellect of Einstein (I'm afraid my brain would explode).
The wisdom of Solomon sounds good, but even Solomon was able to screw that up. What good did all the wisdom do him if he didn't completely obey what God told him?
So I'll go with the compassion of Mother Theresa, but not just b/c of the process of elimination.
One of the elders at my former church had the opportunity to meet Mother Theresa when he went to India after college. He asked her what kept her going, how she could do all she did. His Baylor educated, southern Baptist mind wasn't expecting this answer: With tears in her eyes, she looked at him and said, "As a bride loves her bridegroom, so I love Jesus Christ."
I can only imagine what it would be like to have that depth of intimacy with Jesus. To love Him so much that you forsake ALL that the world values to love those rejected by society, to lie down alongside and hold the dying, to feed the hungry, and to open your heart and arms to the orphans the way that Mother Theresa did.
4. If given a chance to live on the International Space Station for one week would you take it?
Heck yeah!!! I must admit that I don't know much about it, but how could one pass up that opportunity??? Sure there are drawbacks, such as the no gravity thing, but I think overall it would be an amazing experience. It would be awesome to see earth from space and would put life into perspective.
5. What is your best memory of being in England?
Okay, this is the hardest question to answer.
I posted about this experience back in January, so I'll pick another . . . .
But I can't! I can't narrow it down to just ONE "best memory." The whole experience was life-changing and full of best memories. I learned so much and I made so many good friends!
If you have the time, I would suggest reading the archives from July through September if you want to find my "best memory."
Ok, seriously, the times I hung out with people were the best memories. Like at my going away party. I couldn't believe so many people showed up!
My birthday was also special. I had only been in England for two weeks and I had to work the day of my birthday. I've never been away from my family and friends on my birthday, so I was a little bummed. But I was greeted with gifts from my co-workers that night, a card signed by all the residents and staff, and a cake baked by one of the residents who used to be a chef. AND another resident went out and bought me a little gift and pastry. That meant the most - Here was this jobless, homeless man who went out of his way to make sure I had something special for my birthday. Maybe that was my best memory.
Thursday, March 03, 2005
Art & Soul
Just when I think I'm perfectly happy where I'm at, I see things like this and it makes me want to be in grad school. Darn higher learning institutions!
I went to this two years ago (mainly b/c Dr. Wood offered us extra credit and I needed all the ec I could get in his class!). I attended the Jeremy Begbie presentation and absolutely LOVED him. He incorporated his music in explaining theology (ie. He explained the trinity in terms of chords played on a piano - they are three distinct notes with three distinct identities, but played together they create a beautiful noise, something that could not be created when one of the notes is excluded.)
To answer Oprah's question: My wildest dream would be to have the opportunity to study Theology through the Arts at the University of St. Andrews.
I went to this two years ago (mainly b/c Dr. Wood offered us extra credit and I needed all the ec I could get in his class!). I attended the Jeremy Begbie presentation and absolutely LOVED him. He incorporated his music in explaining theology (ie. He explained the trinity in terms of chords played on a piano - they are three distinct notes with three distinct identities, but played together they create a beautiful noise, something that could not be created when one of the notes is excluded.)
To answer Oprah's question: My wildest dream would be to have the opportunity to study Theology through the Arts at the University of St. Andrews.
What do you taste like?
 Cor blimey, I taste like Tea.I am a subtle flavour, quiet and polite, gentle, almost ambient. My presence in crowds will often go unnoticed. Best not to spill me on your clothes though, I can leave a nasty stain. What Flavour Are You? |
It also says I would be Vanilla if I wasn't Tea:
 I am Vanilla Flavoured.I am one of the most popular flavours in the world. Subtle and smooth, I go reasonably with anyone, and rarely do anything to offend. I can be expected to be blending in in society. |
I love that they have Marmite on the list! (Marmite is something they eat in England. It's yeast extract. Yeah, I know, sounds gross. It tastes gross too. It's well known that "you either love it or hate it!")
Via Jen
Random Memory
Recently I've been reminded of a funny thing that happened to me. True story. I think for full comic effect, I'll need to give background info. Picture me working at a company where I was just promoted to assistant to the President and I was learning the ropes of executive assisting and getting my new office in order... As a laid-back free spirit, I am somewhat out of my element and have gotten wise lectures from friends and co-workers about my overall professional demeanor (i.e., now I'm actually drying my hair before I get to work, and leaving my combat-type shoes at home). It's intimidating at first, but as long as I remember to be polite and call everyone Sir or Ma'am, I'm OK. Meanwhile, the company is dealing with its first real federal investigation involving complaints from customers and possible fraud -- it's a big mess. There are government investigators hanging out at our building all the time and asking us questions. Most of the issues came out of the department I was promoted out of, so I am not surprised when one of the federal investigators knocks on the door of my new office and asks if he can have a few minutes of my time:
Investigator: My name is Ralph.
Me: [standing up and extending my hand] Hello, how are you, Sir?
Investigator: [appears slightly annoyed] No, you don't have to do all this -- sit back down -- and cool it with the 'Sir.'
Me: [slightly frustrated because I know I'll probably never remember his name] OK... Dude.
Investigator: [laughing]
Me: [thinking, 'Hey, it's either Sir or Dude, take your pick...']
Investigator: My name is Ralph.
Me: [standing up and extending my hand] Hello, how are you, Sir?
Investigator: [appears slightly annoyed] No, you don't have to do all this -- sit back down -- and cool it with the 'Sir.'
Me: [slightly frustrated because I know I'll probably never remember his name] OK... Dude.
Investigator: [laughing]
Me: [thinking, 'Hey, it's either Sir or Dude, take your pick...']
Wednesday, March 02, 2005
This is AWESOME!
My friend Ashley sent this to me, and I had to pass it along. I'm just sharing the love . . .
Happy early Easter!
Happy early Easter!
It worked!
I checked the mail after I got home from work and I was pleased to find a package addressed to me from Adagio Teas. They really do send you free tea when you add their link to your blog! But if you do it, don't be stupid like me: I don't know what I was smoking, but when I entered my web address I didn't include the www part; so I got the 4 tea sampler instead of the 6 tea sampler. Oh well, it's still free tea! Yay!
As I type, the water in my electric kettle is starting to boil. Now I need to decide if I want English Breakfast tea or Irish Breakfast tea. Decisions, decisions . . .
As I type, the water in my electric kettle is starting to boil. Now I need to decide if I want English Breakfast tea or Irish Breakfast tea. Decisions, decisions . . .
Tuesday, March 01, 2005
Fifty Questions
I got this from my college friend Eva, and figured I might as well play along.
1. Your name spelled backwards:
leug ahsila harobed (hmmm...should I be posting my full name on the internet???)
2. Where were your parents born?
both were born in good old Houston, Tx
3. What is the last thing you downloaded onto your computer?
Pictures of my nephews and niece (if you scroll down you can view them . . .)
4. What's your favorite restaurant?
Bangkok Royal (in Waco), Olive Garden (b/c i have lots of good memories tied to OG), Ninfas (same reason as OG)
5. Last time you swam in a pool?
It's probably been nearly 2 years. Sadly, I can't even remember. I know for sure I swam during my Baylor Landing Apartments days, but those ended in '02 when Baylor decided to tear them down and build a parking garage.
6. Have you ever been in a school play?
Not really. There was that time in Kindergarten I had to dress like a pilgrim girl for a Thanksgiving production. I have a very vague recollection of that experience . . . or at least of my brothers making fun of me (nearly all my childhood memories include taunting from my brothers)
7. How many kids do you want?
A couple, but seeing as how I'm no where near that chapter in life, I can't say for sure.
8. Types of music you dislike most?
Heavy Metal and excessively Raunchy Rap
9. Are you registered to vote?
Sure am!
10. Do you have a car?
Yup. A 1991 Cadillac Deville. His name is Runt (it's a long story).
11. Have you ever ridden a Mo-ped?
Nope
12. Ever prank call anybody?
I don't think so; I really can't remember.
For some reason, there was no question 13
14. Would you go bungee jumping or skydiving?
SKYDIVING - For some reason, the thought of jumping from a bridge/platform with just a giant rubber band keeping me from smashing to the ground freaks me out. So I'd rather jump from a plane . . . Odd, I know.
15. Furthest place you ever traveled?
Either Uzbekistan or South Korea; I don't know for sure.
16. Do you have a garden?
We just moved into a house that's only 3 years old. We don't even have any trees, yet alone a garden.
17. What's the size of your bed?
Full
18. Do you really know all the words to your national anthem?
I think so . . .
19. Bath or Shower, morning or night?
Shower at night; sometimes in the morning.
20. Best movie you've seen in the past month?
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
21. What's the next movie you want to see?
Hitch, In Good Company
22. Chips or popcorn?
Sour Cream and Onion Pringles. Mmmm...
23. Have you ever broken any hearts?
If I have, they recovered rather well - they're all married by now, and yet, I'm still single. How ironic. . .
24. Premarital sex?
What's that?
25. Are you a good cook?
For the most part.
26. Orange or Apple juice?
I'm not a big juice drinker, but if I have to chose I'll chose orange juice.
27. Who was the last person you went out to dinner with and where did you go?
With my mom to a Thai place down the street where I introduced her to Thai curry.
28. Favorite type of drink?
Non-alcoholic: flavored iced tea
Alcoholic (that is, if I drank alcohol ;) : Ace Pear Cider
29. Best thing in the world?
Taking a walk in the cool evening, listening to the world fall asleep. The best is walking through Baylor's campus and sitting on "my swing" in the Quadrangle. *sigh* I sure do miss those college days.
30. Have you ever broken a bone?
No, praise the Lord!
31. Have you ever won a trophy?
No, but I have won ribbons for some art work (which includes first place in the congressional art show back when I lived in Corpus Christi; after which, my drawing hung in the congressman's office for a year. =o) Sorry, I just had to boast about that one!)
32. What is your favorite board game?
Scrabble, Cranium
33. What is your dream car?
Any type of convertible, but I'm not picky. I drive a 14 year-old Cadillac, for goodness sake!
34. Ever order an article from an infomercial?
Yup, Winsor Pilates last year
35. Coke or Pepsi?
I have a fondness for Coke that extends from childhood, but given the choice I usually chose Pepsi.
36. Have you ever had to wear a uniform to work?
Not really. The closest I've come is a denim shirt I had to wear when I worked at Highland's Kid's Kingdom (a mothers day out/preschool). There was a picture of Noah's Ark and it said "Get to Noah Child." Clever, huh?
37. Last thing you bought at a pharmacy?
A birthday card
38. Who are you going to marry?
Wait, what??? That sure is a random question! And seeing as how there is NO ONE in the radar, I'm thinking I don't have to worry about that now. Praise the Lord!
39. Who would you like to meet?
Bono - besides the fact that I LOVE his music, my brothers would be so jealous and I could hold it over their heads for the rest of our lives.
40. Do you believe in love at first sight?
I believe in lust at first sight, although I have known people who saw someone for the first time and knew that was the person they were going to marry. In those cases, half the people panicked and tried to avoid the inevitable, while the other half pursued until it finally happened.
41. What features do you find most attractive in the opposite sex?
Eyes and strong hands (and arms). Yeah, I know that's random, but it's true!
As far as character: Christian with a sense of humor (he'll need it to survive my family!) and a heart of worship.
42. Where would you go for a romantic evening?
What's with all the love questions?! I won't even dignify this question with an answer (mostly, because I have NO idea).
43. How many pairs of shoes do you own?
Well, um, ya see, what had happened was I kinda lost count after 30. Seriously. But in my defense, that includes flip-flops, some of which are only $2-$5 Wal-mart and Target ones!
After I get my room cleaned up I'll try to gather an official count.
44. Last song stuck in your head?
Blessed be Your Name by Matt Redman
It's still there.
Before that it was Blower's Daughter by Damien Rice
Question 45 is also missing. Weird.
46. What's your all time favorite Saturday Night Live Character?
Sorry, but I've never watched SNL enough to have a favorite character.
47. What is one thing you would like to learn to do?
Play guitar and/or piano
48. What do you do when you are bored?
Play internet games (I'm addicted to Yahoo's Mahjong Solitaire)
49. What is one thing that you would want someone to appreciate about you?
My sense of humor (the greatest encouragement I've ever received was from my good friend Kelley. She said that she laughs the hardest when she's hanging out with me.)
50. What is one thing you're grateful for today?
I went shopping with my mom and grandma (Foley's had an 80% off winter clearance)! Mom bought me a cowboy hat for my school's rodeo day tomorrow. The best part is it was only $10! AND Clinique had their free gift with purchase, so I bought a lip gloss and mascara. I also got an awesome silk scarf for only $16 and three pairs of dangley earrings for only $9! Did I mention that it was also PAY DAY! =o)
Please feel free to answer any or all of the questions in the comments! Cheers! =o)
1. Your name spelled backwards:
leug ahsila harobed (hmmm...should I be posting my full name on the internet???)
2. Where were your parents born?
both were born in good old Houston, Tx
3. What is the last thing you downloaded onto your computer?
Pictures of my nephews and niece (if you scroll down you can view them . . .)
4. What's your favorite restaurant?
Bangkok Royal (in Waco), Olive Garden (b/c i have lots of good memories tied to OG), Ninfas (same reason as OG)
5. Last time you swam in a pool?
It's probably been nearly 2 years. Sadly, I can't even remember. I know for sure I swam during my Baylor Landing Apartments days, but those ended in '02 when Baylor decided to tear them down and build a parking garage.
6. Have you ever been in a school play?
Not really. There was that time in Kindergarten I had to dress like a pilgrim girl for a Thanksgiving production. I have a very vague recollection of that experience . . . or at least of my brothers making fun of me (nearly all my childhood memories include taunting from my brothers)
7. How many kids do you want?
A couple, but seeing as how I'm no where near that chapter in life, I can't say for sure.
8. Types of music you dislike most?
Heavy Metal and excessively Raunchy Rap
9. Are you registered to vote?
Sure am!
10. Do you have a car?
Yup. A 1991 Cadillac Deville. His name is Runt (it's a long story).
11. Have you ever ridden a Mo-ped?
Nope
12. Ever prank call anybody?
I don't think so; I really can't remember.
For some reason, there was no question 13
14. Would you go bungee jumping or skydiving?
SKYDIVING - For some reason, the thought of jumping from a bridge/platform with just a giant rubber band keeping me from smashing to the ground freaks me out. So I'd rather jump from a plane . . . Odd, I know.
15. Furthest place you ever traveled?
Either Uzbekistan or South Korea; I don't know for sure.
16. Do you have a garden?
We just moved into a house that's only 3 years old. We don't even have any trees, yet alone a garden.
17. What's the size of your bed?
Full
18. Do you really know all the words to your national anthem?
I think so . . .
19. Bath or Shower, morning or night?
Shower at night; sometimes in the morning.
20. Best movie you've seen in the past month?
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
21. What's the next movie you want to see?
Hitch, In Good Company
22. Chips or popcorn?
Sour Cream and Onion Pringles. Mmmm...
23. Have you ever broken any hearts?
If I have, they recovered rather well - they're all married by now, and yet, I'm still single. How ironic. . .
24. Premarital sex?
What's that?
25. Are you a good cook?
For the most part.
26. Orange or Apple juice?
I'm not a big juice drinker, but if I have to chose I'll chose orange juice.
27. Who was the last person you went out to dinner with and where did you go?
With my mom to a Thai place down the street where I introduced her to Thai curry.
28. Favorite type of drink?
Non-alcoholic: flavored iced tea
Alcoholic (that is, if I drank alcohol ;) : Ace Pear Cider
29. Best thing in the world?
Taking a walk in the cool evening, listening to the world fall asleep. The best is walking through Baylor's campus and sitting on "my swing" in the Quadrangle. *sigh* I sure do miss those college days.
30. Have you ever broken a bone?
No, praise the Lord!
31. Have you ever won a trophy?
No, but I have won ribbons for some art work (which includes first place in the congressional art show back when I lived in Corpus Christi; after which, my drawing hung in the congressman's office for a year. =o) Sorry, I just had to boast about that one!)
32. What is your favorite board game?
Scrabble, Cranium
33. What is your dream car?
Any type of convertible, but I'm not picky. I drive a 14 year-old Cadillac, for goodness sake!
34. Ever order an article from an infomercial?
Yup, Winsor Pilates last year
35. Coke or Pepsi?
I have a fondness for Coke that extends from childhood, but given the choice I usually chose Pepsi.
36. Have you ever had to wear a uniform to work?
Not really. The closest I've come is a denim shirt I had to wear when I worked at Highland's Kid's Kingdom (a mothers day out/preschool). There was a picture of Noah's Ark and it said "Get to Noah Child." Clever, huh?
37. Last thing you bought at a pharmacy?
A birthday card
38. Who are you going to marry?
Wait, what??? That sure is a random question! And seeing as how there is NO ONE in the radar, I'm thinking I don't have to worry about that now. Praise the Lord!
39. Who would you like to meet?
Bono - besides the fact that I LOVE his music, my brothers would be so jealous and I could hold it over their heads for the rest of our lives.
40. Do you believe in love at first sight?
I believe in lust at first sight, although I have known people who saw someone for the first time and knew that was the person they were going to marry. In those cases, half the people panicked and tried to avoid the inevitable, while the other half pursued until it finally happened.
41. What features do you find most attractive in the opposite sex?
Eyes and strong hands (and arms). Yeah, I know that's random, but it's true!
As far as character: Christian with a sense of humor (he'll need it to survive my family!) and a heart of worship.
42. Where would you go for a romantic evening?
What's with all the love questions?! I won't even dignify this question with an answer (mostly, because I have NO idea).
43. How many pairs of shoes do you own?
Well, um, ya see, what had happened was I kinda lost count after 30. Seriously. But in my defense, that includes flip-flops, some of which are only $2-$5 Wal-mart and Target ones!
After I get my room cleaned up I'll try to gather an official count.
44. Last song stuck in your head?
Blessed be Your Name by Matt Redman
It's still there.
Before that it was Blower's Daughter by Damien Rice
Question 45 is also missing. Weird.
46. What's your all time favorite Saturday Night Live Character?
Sorry, but I've never watched SNL enough to have a favorite character.
47. What is one thing you would like to learn to do?
Play guitar and/or piano
48. What do you do when you are bored?
Play internet games (I'm addicted to Yahoo's Mahjong Solitaire)
49. What is one thing that you would want someone to appreciate about you?
My sense of humor (the greatest encouragement I've ever received was from my good friend Kelley. She said that she laughs the hardest when she's hanging out with me.)
50. What is one thing you're grateful for today?
I went shopping with my mom and grandma (Foley's had an 80% off winter clearance)! Mom bought me a cowboy hat for my school's rodeo day tomorrow. The best part is it was only $10! AND Clinique had their free gift with purchase, so I bought a lip gloss and mascara. I also got an awesome silk scarf for only $16 and three pairs of dangley earrings for only $9! Did I mention that it was also PAY DAY! =o)
Please feel free to answer any or all of the questions in the comments! Cheers! =o)
Missing England
Okay, you people are probably SICK of hearing me talk about England, but I can't help it! First of all, I spent 1/3 of last year there and have quite a few good friends from/living in the UK. Secondly, when there's a burden and a love for a country in your heart, you can't help but talk about it. So deal! ;o)
I know I mentioned going to World Mandate two weeks ago, but I never followed up on that post. The main reason I went was because I knew there would be people from England and King's Arms there. After seeing all my friends, I was ready to leave. But since I paid the $50 for the conference I figured I might as well stay.
I know I've spiritually matured, because this was probably the first year I didn't get swept up in all the emotions. This was the first year I was able to stand before God and wait for Him to speak. There were no distractions (or at least very few) about if anyone would come over and pray for me or if they would have "a word" for me, etc etc. In England last year I learned the hard way that I HAVE TO be able to meet with God one on one. I'm all for community, and I sorely miss it now that I don't have a church, but when everyone and everything is stripped away you must be able to tap into God for yourself. So this year at Mandate I practically walked that out.
Another sign of my maturity is I didn't get swept up in the call to go to the nations. I already know that God has called me, I've already been multiple times, and I know I'm going back. As much as I would love to leave next week, I know the next year-and-a-half will be integral in preparing the way, and I'm ready to wait for Him to sort it all out.
Back to England. I met with Mike, the director of the King's Arms Project, and he told me they would love to have me back in Bedford at anytime. The problem: they can't afford to pay me this year (or at least, pay beyond the 120 pound stipend). But I assured him it was okay because I wouldn't be ready to go back for at least another year. And I long to return! It's a bit scary, because Project changes so much over just a year, but I know this is what the Lord is calling me to do next.
So now I'm faced with the challenge of living the next 18 months without pinning away for England. I don't want to miss out on anything coming my way this next year, and I don't want to hold my breath until I step off that plane in Gatwick Airport. So I'm learning how to fully live each day. Some days are better than others, but God is good! I miss England. I miss living at 19 Preston Rd with Dave and Hannah. I miss working at the Nightshelter. I miss being streched and pushed out of my comfort zone. I miss all the interesting people and those interesting encounters I had at the Nightshelter. I miss interceding and befriending those rejected by society. I miss worshiping at King's Arms. I miss day trips to London. I even miss walking everywhere in a small town and running into people I know. And I especially miss my good friends. But I KNOW God is good and faithful!
Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful.
Hebrews 10:23
I know I mentioned going to World Mandate two weeks ago, but I never followed up on that post. The main reason I went was because I knew there would be people from England and King's Arms there. After seeing all my friends, I was ready to leave. But since I paid the $50 for the conference I figured I might as well stay.
I know I've spiritually matured, because this was probably the first year I didn't get swept up in all the emotions. This was the first year I was able to stand before God and wait for Him to speak. There were no distractions (or at least very few) about if anyone would come over and pray for me or if they would have "a word" for me, etc etc. In England last year I learned the hard way that I HAVE TO be able to meet with God one on one. I'm all for community, and I sorely miss it now that I don't have a church, but when everyone and everything is stripped away you must be able to tap into God for yourself. So this year at Mandate I practically walked that out.
Another sign of my maturity is I didn't get swept up in the call to go to the nations. I already know that God has called me, I've already been multiple times, and I know I'm going back. As much as I would love to leave next week, I know the next year-and-a-half will be integral in preparing the way, and I'm ready to wait for Him to sort it all out.
Back to England. I met with Mike, the director of the King's Arms Project, and he told me they would love to have me back in Bedford at anytime. The problem: they can't afford to pay me this year (or at least, pay beyond the 120 pound stipend). But I assured him it was okay because I wouldn't be ready to go back for at least another year. And I long to return! It's a bit scary, because Project changes so much over just a year, but I know this is what the Lord is calling me to do next.
So now I'm faced with the challenge of living the next 18 months without pinning away for England. I don't want to miss out on anything coming my way this next year, and I don't want to hold my breath until I step off that plane in Gatwick Airport. So I'm learning how to fully live each day. Some days are better than others, but God is good! I miss England. I miss living at 19 Preston Rd with Dave and Hannah. I miss working at the Nightshelter. I miss being streched and pushed out of my comfort zone. I miss all the interesting people and those interesting encounters I had at the Nightshelter. I miss interceding and befriending those rejected by society. I miss worshiping at King's Arms. I miss day trips to London. I even miss walking everywhere in a small town and running into people I know. And I especially miss my good friends. But I KNOW God is good and faithful!
Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful.
Hebrews 10:23
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