Flo's Creations

2012-02-02T20:47:00.002-05:00

I'm part of a writing group that meets formally for a weekend only once a year, and some fortunate members of our group meet at conferences between our annual retreats. Next weekend will be our tenth year and we'll travel from Tennessee, Illinois, New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania to Maryland. Through a flurry of emails, we joyfully anticipate reconnecting, especially during the month preceding our meeting.

Eleven years ago we didn't know each other, except for two of the women, and considering our physical distance, it's a beautiful thing as we each arrive and fill each other's love tanks with hugs, encouragement, laughter, compassion, prayers and gift giving. Even though we're all Christians, our love for writing and words binds us in a different way than with other friends or family members.

Our time together is priceless and I thank God for connecting us here on earth and for eternity.

2011-11-23T16:50:00.001-05:00

Holidays tend to cause additional stress in our lives especially when grudges threaten to derail the joy we should have while spending time with our families. The apostle Paul has some advice that will help. "Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you." Ephesians 4:32

Enjoy and be blessed.

2011-09-22T11:45:00.001-04:00

Staying Grounded

God opposes the proud but give grace to the humble. James 4:6

When you need to show others their faults, do not talk down to them as though you are faultless and they are inferior to you. Instead, talk with them as though you are standing side by side at the foot of the cross. Acknowledge your present, ongoing need for the Savior. Admit ways that you have wrestled with the same or other sins or weaknesses, and give hope by describing how God has forgiven you and is currently working in you to help you change... When people see this kind of humility and common bond, they will be less inclined to react to correction with pride and defensiveness.

(Taken from The Peacemaker: A Biblical Guide to Resolving Personal Conflict
by Ken Sande, Updated Edition (Grand Rapids, Baker Books, 2003) p. 172)

Food for Thought

Count the words you and your in the paragraph above.

How many did you count? Nine? If there had been one or two uses of the words you and your, it probably wouldn't have drawn any attention. But nine? That's enough where we need to stop, look, and listen. Ken is wisely sharing a beneficial approach to use when we need to show others their faults: talk about your own.

From our peers in the office to aging parents to the children at play in the backyard, nobody likes to be talked down to--nobody! Talking down usually invites a defensiveness that's hard to overcome. Side by side talking, however, lays a common ground that you and the other person can stand on. Interestingly enough, the root word for humility is humus, from which we get our word for ground. Being grounded, or humble, in our approach to these situations provides protection from the lightning bolts of pride and defensiveness.

2011-09-05T14:18:00.000-04:00

In Beth Moore's bible study, Breaking Free, she makes some thought-provoking statements on page 149.

“...We make life so much more complicated when our approach to life is 'all about me.'...When we see ourselves as the center of the universe, we live in constant frustration because the rest of creation refuses to revolve around us.”

“God is God. Frankly, it's all about Him...He is the center of the universe. So how can we live with such a God-centered mentality?...Because with God, it's all about us. We seek to please Him. He seeks to perfect us—and life works. Not without pain, but with purpose.”

This is where I've made the biggest mistakes of my life—thinking I knew better than God, could handle things and people better than God. And when they came crashing down, I knew I couldn't blame Him. I could recount the flags He had put in my way that I chose to plow through. There were confirmations from others warning me I was on the wrong track that I chose to ignore. I wanted what I wanted, so I did what I wanted to do instead of trusting God.

BUT the Book of Isaiah is full of promises of restoration. In fact, in chapter 43 verses 18-21, He tells me to forget the past failures. “Do not remember the former things, nor consider the things of old. I will do a new thing, now it shall spring forth...I will even make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert...to give drink to My people. These people I have formed for Myself; they shall declare My praise.”

God has already started the “new thing.” And today, it's newer yet and it's exciting because, "He shall be within me a “well of water springing up into everlasting life.” (John 4:14). For my part, I have to trust and obey or end up in another wilderness. It always comes down to my choices.

2011-08-25T11:33:00.000-04:00

Excellent, practical article.

http://www.ccef.org/blog/what-does-alternative-medicine-have-common-biblical-counseling

2011-08-10T15:36:00.003-04:00

Twenty years ago you would have never heard the expression, "a real person," because we were all real and thought of others that way. Now the term is common due to digital voices that speak to us when we call the phone or credit card companies, doctor’s offices, service providers and an array of others. At times I’ve been frustrated and said to The Voice, “I want to talk to a REAL person!” then hung up because that wasn’t one of my options.

Relationships with real people are vital to our emotional health where we give as well as receive encouragement, support, advice, love, acceptance, and sometimes physical help. When bereft of connections providing these things, we can waste away emotionally and physically. With the rise of social media, a false sense of belonging can superficially fill the void in the short term, but is not what our hearts long for.

It’s ironic that of all the relationships we’ll have while on this earth, the most important one is with a person that some people think is unreal—that is the Lord Jesus Christ. After his death and resurrection, hundreds of people saw him at one time and he frequently appeared to smaller groups of his followers. Even now, Christ lives and makes himself available to us 24/7 no matter where we are. Though physically intangible, his presence is very real when we spend time communicating with him, worshipping him, and just being aware of his creation and work in the world.

The next time we feel excluded or rejected, we have only to whisper his name and tell him whatever is on our heart. He listens. He understands. He accepts and he loves us, because he is as real as any other being in this big, beautiful universe.

2010-11-17T16:48:00.003-05:00

During the last two months, I've gone through a huge transition at work. Serious downsizing. New boss. New office. Long commute. As hard as I tried to remain positive and look at this as an adventure (seriously, I did), I became depressed from all the stress of longer days and having no idea what type of changes the Interim Director would make.

After trying a dozen ways to discover the least painful route back and forth, someone showed me a way I hadn't considered and it's great! Nice ride, a minimum of traffic, and trimmed off 20 minutes. My co-worker and I have settled in nicely. We can find what we need and have thrown away about two tons of paperwork and miscellaneous "supplies."

After being uncomfortable with others at the new building, we're getting to know and enjoy each other. All we needed was time and patience. Next time I hope I have more patience realizing that change may have more benefits than maintaining status quo.

2010-07-18T12:50:00.001-04:00

Nobel Prize winner Czeslaw Milosz, wrote a poem entitled, “Study of Loneliness.” He describes sunrise splendor and asks for whom it was created.

“Yet it will be here long after I perish.
What is it in the eye of a lizard? Or when seen by a migrant bird?
If I am all mankind, are they themselves without me?
And he knew there was no use crying out, for none of them would save him.”

The poem ends on a note of hopelessness, and so it is for those who deny God and his gift of salvation. In another book of poetry, the Psalms, we see the answer to those who cry out in their loneliness.

“I waited patiently for the Lord and he inclined to me , and heard my cry.” Ps. 40:1

“Call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me.” Ps. 50:15

“As for me, I will call upon God, and the Lord shall save me. Evening and morning and at noon I will pray, and cry aloud, and He shall hear my voice.” Ps. 55: 16-17

Throughout life we experience loneliness and hopelessness, but we don’t have to be stuck there. When we cry out to God, we can be assured that he will hear and answer us. Expect it.

2009-09-24T15:14:00.002-04:00

In doing research on ancient history, I've had some thoughts I'd like to share.

We all have a reputation whether it is good or bad. Oftentimes it is based not only on what we have done as an individual, but on our parents or ancestry. This is how people pre-judge or stereotype, which is nothing new, for example, an Irish temper or an Italian lover.

Looking back at classical history, many writers spoke of the Phoenicians, from an area along the Mediterranean Sea, as “narrowminded and greedy,” “cunning,” “most treacherous of all people.” Is it possible that there were also nice people among them? Of course, but the negative traits are the ones that burned an image on the minds of outsiders.

Had only their positive talents been recorded by Homer, Plato and others, the contemporary world would think of them with a positive viewpoint as “skilled craftsmen,” “Navigators,” Pioneer sailors and traders.” But rather than being remembered for their skills, it’s the character that has more often been referred to for centuries.

Just like the Phoenicians, we may be known as a good business person, an accomplished song writer, a skilled physician, but what we should strive for is to have compassion, show mercy, offer forgiveness, think of others as more important than ourselves. We can’t do this on our own, but if we ask the Lord to work in us and make us more like our Savior, he’ll answer our prayer as long as we’re willing and patient.

“Choose a good reputation over great riches; being held in high esteem is better than silver or gold.“ Proverbs 22:1

2009-09-19T13:12:00.004-04:00

Last month I went to Disney Land for the first time, "the happiest place on earth," I was frequently reminded. One thing that contributed to that feeling was the music--all upbeat, cheerful songs piped into every square inch of the park. It worked, too. All day I was humming or singing along, and the best thing was as I was leaving, who should I run into but my dear Mary Poppins and Bert singing "It's a jolly holiday with Mary." Happiness personified! ! !

It's a different genre of music, but I get something even better when I'm in church and we're singing worship songs. Joy. Whether old hymns or contemporary songs, when my focus is changed from my present surroundings, thoughts that bog me down, frustration regarding day-to-day events, most Christian music renews my hope, encourages me and changes my mood.

I'm wondering, though, can "genre" apply to music as well as literature?

2009-09-17T15:40:00.002-04:00

I had two meetings today relating to my community. The first focused on forming an alumni group for the Community Leadership Institute from which I graduated in June. There are 67 graduates from a variety of businesses and it will be interesting to see what this new group will accomplish through community service and networking opportunities.

At the second meeting we tried to finalize the program for the Indian Valley Community Arts Gala, taking place Tuesday, 10/6/09, at Generations in Souderton. We have a great line-up of multi-ethnic music, dance troups, other entertainment and an art show. Complimentary wine tasting, appetizers and punch will be served.

If you're in the area, come by between 7 and 9 p.m. to enjoy a "taste" of the changing face of Indian Valley culture.

I find great satisfaction in serving in whatever small ways I can to help keep and grow the community I've lived in the last 25+ years.

2009-07-03T14:17:00.002-04:00

TRUTH: “‘emet is spelled with the first, middle, and last letters of the Hebrew alphabet; thus the rabbis concluded that truth upholds the first and the last of God’s creation, and everything in between!”

Truth is too often a rare commodity whether it’s in the area of politics, education, business or relationships. When we find someone we can believe in who has integrity, we learn that it’s safe to make ourselves vulnerable with them. If we’ve been deceived by a vendor, contractor or friend, the openness we once shared becomes stifled until the matter has been reconciled. If it never comes to that point, there remains a wall between us.

It’s easier to deal with a deceptive person when it’s business, not personal, although we often take it personally, because we can always do business elsewhere. But what happens when a relationship is fractured because of mistrust. How long do we give a person to make amends? A specified time limit or indefinite? And what do we do during that time? It’s impossible to continue with the status quo as if nothing has changed, unless the deception is small; although if someone deceives us in small things, it still changes the level of trust we have in them to some degree.

When the deception is huge and there is no acknowlegement of wrongdoing, it can sever a relationship irrevocably. We can forgive, and must, but we cannot trust that person again unless we are in denial—which is at best, temporary, because if someone deceives in one serious area, they will continue into other areas. Like rings in a lake when we throw in a stone, the effects will permeate more and more friendships and issues.

The psalmist David prayed “You desire truth in the inward parts, and in the hidden part You will make me to know wisdom.” Psalm 51:6. And in Psalm 25:21 David says, “Let integrity and uprightness preserve me.” When we allow the truth of God to be applied in our hearts, our lives will be open, with nothing to hide, and we will be persons of integrity. A worthy goal.

7/3/09

2009-06-18T19:19:00.002-04:00

I've lived in the Indian Valley for 28 years: raising my children, working, going to church, school, eating out and shopping. Day-after-day I drove by businesses, municipal buildings and agencies, never giving a thought to those that didn't directly affect my family. But thanks to my employer, the Christian Counseling Center, the Chamber of Commerce and Ella Roush's direction of the CLI class, during the last ten months, my world has expanded exponentially.

I've learned how a community is built from the bottom up beginning with education and government services for people of every age. I've met with business leaders, historians and township supervisors and a state senator. I've also been more exposed to local arts and culture, and media outlets.

Through all this, I've gained a great deal of respect for those serving in the Indian Valley community and feel privileged to live here. The class has prepared me to give back to others some of the things I've benefited from and taken for granted for a long time.

2009-06-18T18:39:00.001-04:00

2009-06-18T18:25:00.004-04:00

Something just happened to me as I read a blog linked from the Indian Valley Arts Foundation. As I read the description and writing exercise for a "triolet," on the spur of the moment I used this poetic form and came up with a piece. I can't share it here because it's too personal, but the Muse has returned! ! !

Perhaps this is the result of attending a motivational seminar yesterday which opened up my mind to lots of new possibilities. The Muse has a way of sneaking in when I least expect her.

2009-04-07T14:18:00.001-04:00

The Fruitbearer Team from a retreat I attended in March at the beautiful Inn on the Canal in Lewes, Maryland.

2009-03-26T14:21:00.002-04:00

Sometimes other people put into words things we think of, but just haven't penned. Here is a case in point from Ken Sande. His writing is always profound.

"God may not tell us everything we want to know about the painful events of life, but he has already told us all we need to know. Therefore, instead of wasting time and energy trying to figure out things that are beyond our comprehension, we need to turn our attention to the promises and instructions that God has revealed to us through Scripture. The Bible tells us that God is both sovereign and good, so we can be sure that whatever he has brought into our lives can be used to glorify him, to benefit others, and to help us to grow."

Taken from The Peacemaker: A Biblical Guide to Resolving Personal Conflict by Ken Sande, Updated Edition (Grand Rapids, Baker Books, 2003) pp. 64-65.

2009-03-24T12:12:00.002-04:00

Obama budget could bring $9.3 trillion in deficits
By ANDREW TAYLOR, Associated Press Writer Andrew Taylor, Associated Press Writer
Fri Mar 20, 7:43 pm ET

WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama's budget would produce $9.3 trillion in deficits over the next decade, more than four times the deficits of Republican George W. Bush's presidency, congressional auditors said Friday.

The new Congressional Budget Office figures offered a far more dire outlook for Obama's budget than the new administration predicted just last month — a deficit $2.3 trillion worse. It's a prospect even the president's own budget director called unsustainable.

In his White House run, Obama assailed the economic policies of his predecessor, but the eye-popping deficit numbers threaten to swamp his ambitious agenda of overhauling health care, exploring new energy sources and enacting scores of domestic programs.

The dismal deficit figures, if they prove to be accurate, inevitably raise the prospect that Obama and his Democratic allies controlling Congress would have to consider raising taxes after the recession ends or else pare back his agenda.

By CBO's calculation, Obama's budget would generate deficits averaging almost $1 trillion a year of red ink over 2010-2019.

Worst of all, CBO says the deficit under Obama's policies would never go below 4 percent of the size of the economy, figures that economists agree are unsustainable. By the end of the decade, the deficit would exceed 5 percent of gross domestic product, a dangerously high level.

White House budget chief Peter Orszag said that CBO's long-range economic projections are more pessimistic than those of the White House, private economists and the Federal Reserve and that he remained confident that Obama's budget, if enacted, would produce smaller deficits.

blah, blah, blah...

"This report should serve as the wake-up call this administration needs," said House Minority Leader John Boehner, R-Ohio. "We simply cannot continue to mortgage our children and grandchildren's future to pay for bigger and more costly government."

But Obama insisted on Friday that his agenda is still on track.

"What we will not cut are investments that will lead to real growth and prosperity over the long term," Obama said. "That's why our budget makes a historic commitment to comprehensive health care reform. That's why it enhances America's competitiveness by reducing our dependence on foreign oil and building a clean energy economy."

Obama's $3.6 trillion budget for the 2010 fiscal year beginning Oct. 1 contains ambitious programs to overhaul the U.S. health care system and initiate new "cap-and-trade" rules to combat global warming.

Both initiatives involve raising federal revenues sharply higher, but those dollars wouldn't be used to defray the burgeoning deficit and would instead help pay for Obama's health plan and implement Obama's $400 tax credit for most workers and $800 for couples.

Obama's budget promises to cut the deficit to $533 billion in five years. The CBO says the red ink for that year will total $672 billion.

Most disturbing to Obama allies like Senate Budget Committee Chairman Kent Conrad, D-N.D., are the longer term projections, which climb above $1 trillion again by the end of the next decade and approach 6 percent of GDP by 2019.
blah, blah, blah...

___

On the Net:

Congressional Budget Office: http://www.cbo.gov/

Copyright © 2009 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. The information contained in the AP News report may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without the prior written authority of The Associated Press.

Copyright © 2009 Yahoo! Inc. All rights reserved.Questions or CommentsPrivacy PolicyTerms of ServiceCopyright/IP Policy

2009-03-10T06:01:00.001-04:00

Those who truly love God and want to possess godly virtues can accomplish this only one way, through humility. Andrew Murray, in his book Humility compares what many people consider it to be, the one mustered up within ourselves through pseudo self-abasement, to the characteristic exemplified by our Savior in his “unceasing, absolute…dependence on the Father."

2009-03-08T21:03:00.006-04:00

Sometimes this tree represents how my life appears. On the surface it might look dead and colorless, but the inside has a lot going on. New life is surging with sap with nourishment traveling from root to the tip of branches. Someone might insert a spigot and fill a bucket with delicious, sweet syrup to be boiled down to its essence then poured on hot, golden brown pancakes or waffles. (Are you getting hungry? I am.)

But then, not far from this tree is a conservatory kept at a perfect temperature and moisture level to nurture another miracle of nature. A blossom with blood-red center represents the passions of my heart--thriving, blooming, fading, but always coming back to give pleasure to those in my life. At least, this is what I hope.

It was worth a trip to Longwood Gardens in March to be reminded of the wonder and beauty of God's creation in nature and in my humanity.

2009-03-06T14:45:00.001-05:00

2009-03-06T14:42:00.000-05:00

2009-03-06T12:57:00.004-05:00

March 6, 2009 - Excerpt from Joel Rosenberg’s “FlashTraffic”

"Last weekend, I met with some evangelical Christian business leaders in Naples, Florida. They asked me what I thought the future held. I did not offer advice on how to win on Wall Street.

'More tough times may be ahead. If some of you have lost 30% to 50% of your assets, what are your plans going forward? What if another 30% to 50% of your wealth vanishes, or is confiscated in a massive new tax increase? Would it not be better to invest some or all of that wealth in the kingdom of God now, where it is safe and secure, while you still have it?'

The Lord is shaking our country and purifying His Church. He is requiring all of us to reconsider what we value, where our treasure is, where our hearts are. He is preparing us to see Him face to face. And when we see Him, there will be a day of accounting. He will ask us what we did with the resources He entrusted to us. What, then, shall we say?"

[To read the entire article or subscribe to the FlashTraffic, Google him.]

To some, investing in the Kingdom would seem crazy, but the Lord has told us to test Him in the area of our finances. Faith in God makes more sense than Wall Street or the Stimulus Package.

2009-02-27T04:57:00.003-05:00

I've been doing a study on deceit and found that it is something the Lord hates. The language in scripture is strong regarding it, whereas many times people engage in it casually, frequently to protect their image and make themselves appear to be something they are not. When someone is lied against, they need not rush to defend themselves. It's so much better to let God do the defending. Just as the Pharisees tried to defame the character of Jesus, scripture says, "He opened not his mouth." Jesus' life, death and resurrection were evidence of his integrity and character. The Lord himself is the best defender anyone could have.

Psalm 52:4 –7
[to the man who loves lying more than truth] You love to slander—you love to say anything that will do harm, O man with the lying tongue. But God will strike you down and pull you from your home, and drag you away from the land of the living. The followers of God will see it happen. They will watch in awe. Then they will laugh and say, “See what happens to those who despise God and trust in their wealth, and become ever more bold in their wickedness.”

[and to the one is lied against...] But I am like a sheltered olive tree protected by the Lord himself. I trust in the mercy of God forever and ever. O Lord, I will praise you forever and ever for your punishment. And I will wait for your mercies—for everyone knows what a merciful God you are.

2009-01-19T11:25:00.000-05:00

"In the end, it is important to remember that we cannot become what we need to be by remaining what we are." Max DePree

2009-01-06T15:23:00.004-05:00

Consider this in light of my post on 5 Jan 09:

Today's news at 3:20 p.m. EST 6 January 2009

BERLIN – German billionaire Adolf Merckle threw himself in front of a train after his business empire, which included interests ranging from VW cars to pharmaceuticals to cement, ran into trouble in the global financial crisis, his family said Tuesday.

"Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also."

2009-01-05T20:42:00.001-05:00

A few years ago I kept a “Treasure Journal” where I tracked my financial journey for a couple of years. I charted my income, giving, and unmet financial needs. Each time I sat down to record the most recent information, I’d scan the previous entries and was amazed how my needs had always been met, and even many of my “wants.”

Today I came across some of the research I used in that project on the topics of prosperity and poverty, and found some interesting quotes that I’ll share here.

“Be charitable before wealth makes thee covetous.” – Sir Thomas Browne (1605-82)

“I never would have been able to tithe the first million dollars I ever made if I had not tithed my first salary, which was $1.50 per week.” – John D. Rockefeller, Sr. (1839-1937)

And perhaps the most profound, “We are rich only through what we give; and poor only through what we refuse and keep.” – Anne Swetchine (1782-1857)

When we look around, there is always a need greater than our own. This was never more real to me than when I visited Russia last fall where even a famous artist lived in severe poverty. In his home there was no sumptuous meal laid out for us, only a melon and an art lesson by his wife. I cherished that time and felt deeply touched that she freely shared her God-given gift. Hopefully one day, they will receive God’s greatest gift.

2009-01-04T22:13:00.002-05:00

Waves churning
higher than a man’s head
wrenching like a lassoed bull
unwilling to give up
Strength against strength
like Jacob wrestling until dawn

One must give
exhausted, weary
drifting away
life sucked out to sea
on the black horizon
moonless sky

2008-12-29T22:15:00.002-05:00

In every day there will be
reason to give thanks to God.

No matter how loud the
clamoring voices
within, without,
the sounds of music
soak me like healing salve.

In it, the resonance
of angels' voices
draws me to the Father

My Father
My God

2008-11-26T10:26:00.004-05:00

It's hard to believe that Thanksgiving is here. Months fly by like moments, and decades pass like days. I'm trying to stay mindful of the gift that each day is, and in spite of any present hardship or sorrow, there are always far more things to be thankful for.

Sunshine after several days of rain and clouds.
Being in touch--even if only a text message--with my children.
A job that I enjoy going to with great co-workers.
My 90 year old mother who continues to enjoy life and good health.
Photographs of precious people and times.
Emails from my Russian friends.
More than anything, my relationship with my Heavenly Father who is aware of every breath I take and has them numbered till he embraces me physically.

Wow! I didn't realize how blessed I am. Blessings to you, also, my friends.

2008-10-16T09:47:00.002-04:00

The last 2 1/2 months have flown. I've gotten engaged to Bill Balchunis, planned our wedding for 10/26/08, and spent two weeks in Kazan, Russia. One of these in six months would have been enough to keep me busy, but three in 75 days is a little overwhelming, yet very exciting.

2008-07-30T05:58:00.004-04:00

Here are my oldest son Steve and his wife Rebecca.

The second pic is from the 89th birthday celebration of MAMA MIA! Undoubtedly the cutest great-grandmother in the world!

2008-07-30T05:28:00.003-04:00

I thought I'd post some pictures of the most important people in my life.

2008-07-24T21:11:00.000-04:00

2008-07-24T20:52:00.002-04:00

As a mother of six, life is never dull, even when they're grown. In the last week I had one son out in Chicago on job interviews, and a daughter moving from northern California down to Huntington Beach. Another is in South Jersey on a job hunt, my oldest is on a camping trip with his extended family somewhere in California. A daughter is waiting for word on her acceptance into a nursing program, and the last I'll see this weekend to find out what he's up to.

Even though the nest is empty, my heart and mind are full of love and hope for their lives. My job now is to watch and pray as they take small and large steps on their individual journeys, and hope that they intersect regularly with each other and me.

2008-07-23T16:16:00.001-04:00

Ken Sande has some great insights, and today's PeaceMeal newsletter is one I'd like to share with you.

Hate the Sin... Hate the Sinner?

One of the most important steps in overcoming an unforgiving attitude is to focus your attention on how much God has forgiven you. The parable of the unmerciful servant vividly illustrates this principle (Matt. 18:21-35).

This parable illustrates an attitude that is all too common among Christians. We take God's forgiveness for granted, while we stubbornly withhold our forgiveness from others. In effect, we behave as though others' sins against us are more serious than our sins against God. Jesus teaches that this is a terribly sinful thing to do--it is an affront to God and his holiness, and it demands the forgiveness Jesus purchased for us at Calvary.

Taken from The Peacemaker: A Biblical Guide to Resolving Personal Conflict
by Ken Sande, Updated Edition (Grand Rapids, Baker Books, 2003) p. 217

2008-07-14T20:48:00.000-04:00

I just began reading The Shack by William P. Young. If you are a lover of words, you MUST read it. Usually I skip the Forward in my haste to delve into a story, but for some reason, this one I read. After only a few paragraphs I dropped the book and ran off for a pen so I could highlight the author’s amazing use of similes, metaphors and some of the best descriptive writing I’ve come across in ages.

Taste and see…

“When he (Mack) does speak you wonder if he isn’t some sort of alien who sees the landscape of human ideas and experiences differently than everybody else.”

“I suppose that since most of our hurts come through relationships so will our healing, and I know that grace rarely makes sense for those looking in from the outside.”

“What happened three years ago totally changed the melody of his life and it’s a song I can’t wait to play for you.”

AND THESE ARE JUST IN THE FORWARD!

2008-07-08T21:43:00.004-04:00

If you're not familiar with "flash traffic," a news source for what's happening in the Middle East, check it out by going to www.joelrosenberg.com. Today's article, "War in November?" is a reality check for those of us who have minimized the terror threat our country faces.

Rosenberg's latest novel, "Dead Heat" came out in March 2008. Put it on your must-read list if you haven't already read it. The story takes place shortly after the 2008 US election, and is just as realistic and believable as his earlier novels in the series...seemingly right off the pages of scripture AND the Headlines!

If you're not into fiction, then his "Epicenter" is what you need, in DVD or book form. The book has a series of interviews with officials from Israel, an Arab almost-suicide bomber, an Arab pastor, Greg Laurey from Calvary Chapel, and others. We can't afford to be like an ostrich. Check it out.

2008-06-26T09:12:00.003-04:00

"Equality is the public recognition, effectively expressed in institutions and MANNERS, of the principle that an equal degree of attention is due to the needs of all human beings." Simone Weil (emphasis mine)

Equality is something that we all say we are for, but when it comes to displaying it, too often we fall short. Our deficiency shows in the choice of persons we talk to and befriend, pushing through a crowd to secure the best seat for ourselves, or in the way we drive. And in politics, equality is frequently only for those with whom we agree.

Simone Weil has said it well, but the scripture says it better: "Consider others more important than yourselves." That's going a step further and a great challenge. It starts with me.

2008-06-16T06:39:00.002-04:00

I have a unique opportunity to visit Russia for two weeks in September. As part of a small team, my participation will include giving workshops on community and family conflict resolution at a university.

Over the last few years, a friend of mine, along with several others, has gone there and given workshops on topics that include English grammar and idioms, U.S. history and civics, and ethics. The intention of teaching in the universities has been to connect with students who are hungry to improve their English skills, then to spend time with them in the evenings getting to know them better by taking them to McDonalds, bowling, or hanging out at the apartment playing games and eating. Peanut butter is a big hit since it’s difficult to purchase there.

On a note to the team, a young man wrote: “Thank you very much for what are you doing! We very appreciate it! We count dsys until you will come…and try to enlarge the time when you are here...”Another student wrote in a letter, “when I close eyelids I felt sunny day when you visit us.” Is it any wonder my friend returns?

The budget for this trip includes transportation, housing, meals, treating the students, and workshop materials, and amounts to approximately $2500. I’m attempting to raise support by contacting anyone who may be interested in a project of this type. Whether or not you’re able to give financially, I would be grateful for your prayers as I prepare for and venture out to this—for me—strange part of the world.

If you desire to contribute toward this opportunity, or would like additional information, I’d be glad to answer your questions if you reply to this post or the email address on my profile page. Thank you.

2008-06-15T21:23:00.001-04:00

I just finished listening to Agatha Christie’s “Murder in Mesopotamia” and, as with all her books, I completely enjoyed the ride. The author’s quirky humor through Hercule Poirot is enchanting.

Twice I listened to tape one before going on the second because I always miss many of the clues the first time through. I’m more interested in the plot than the character details. And then the second time, with the story in the background, I focus on the tiny details where the clues are always hidden.

As relationships evolve, I find I do something similar. It’s the big picture that’s at first interesting—appearance, career, family status, etc. Then once those things become familiar and the conversations move to a deeper level, the person’s soul begins to unravel, layer after layer when “knowing” the person actually takes place. Things that were hidden and mysterious at first rise to the surface as each “clue” helps to make sense of the whole picture.

Once in a while when my curiosity gets the better of me, I’ll skip to the last chapter of a book to see how the story ends. It would be helpful if we could do that with people too.

2008-06-11T22:41:00.002-04:00

French philosopher Simone Weil said, “All sins are attempts to fill voids.” I’ve been giving that some thought and I suppose it’s true. Pride would be void of self worth, and deceit or dishonesty would indicate a void of a perceived need, whether it’s material or emotional. Lust would be a replacement for love and acceptance.

So often our perceived needs are lies we believe that are really just a substitute for God’s love and recognition. We lack the comfort found in Psalm 23 when “He makes us lie down in green pastures,” the place where we can find comfort and contentment.

Often we run too fast to rest “beside the still waters” of God’s presence where we can realize the basis of our worth, commit our needs to the Lord, and find the unconditional love and acceptance we hunger for.

2008-03-20T14:22:00.002-04:00

Integrity: The quality of possessing and steadfastly adhering to high moral principles or professional standards; the state of being complete or undivided.

This week NY Gov. David Patterson “said he didn't reveal the [multiple] affairs during his time as a senator, Senate minority leader or lieutenant governor because no one had asked him and he came forward [now] because he didn't want the rumors to cloud his governorship."

I wonder how many of us live a lie by remaining silent about our sinful activities because, as Gov. Patterson said, “no one had asked him.” Some of us have the idea that to protect our image we are exempt from being forthright about our weaknesses. This is not to say that we are responsible to tell the world, but as Christians, the bible instructs us to “confess your faults to one another so that you may be healed.” (Jas.5:16)

Each one of us should be in relationship with someone, or a small group of people, to whom we can be completely honest for the purpose of positive growth and change. This should be the goal of every Christian in order to be conformed to the image of Christ.

In the definition above is the word “complete.” If by our silence, or incomplete information, we give the illusion of integrity, this is the same as verbally lying. Patterson didn’t believe that and is now only coming forth with the truth for fear of being blackmailed. How much better it would be if we lived lives that would have no fear of being exposed, whether we are housewives, bankers or elected officials.

2008-02-24T17:34:00.003-05:00

I often think that I’d be happier living in a moderate climate when I could give away my box full of winter hats, gloves and scarves. I mourn for the green picnic groves and rainbowed sails wafting by on the lake, but so far, close family ties have bound me to Pennsylvania.

This winter I’ve been more aware of the seasonal contrasts and have come to appreciate what I used to think of as winter barrenness. The half-frozen lake fascinates me as I watch geese walk gingerly along the icy edge while their buddies ride lapping ripples; seagulls manning the dock where in summer, sunbathers and fishermen place themselves strategically for a bite or a burn.

Like the landscape, I, too, am in a transition; the closing of one chapter and anticipating the next, with some fuzzy idea of where I’m heading. I feel a little like Abraham called out of Ur, away from the familiar, comfortableness of his life. Step-by-step he walked, day-after-day, toward a promise. I, too, have a promise, “…Those who seek the Lord shall not lack any good thing.” (Psalm 34:10)

2008-02-16T22:13:00.002-05:00

I've begun an assignment in a writing workbook and the first question I had to answer was, "Who is my hero?" I was surprised how hard it was as I dug through the recesses of my mind at bible characters, relatives, politicians and friends. This status changes over time because of where I am personally.

Tonight I have settled on Phyllis K. Question number one answered.

Question two: "What makes this person a heroine to you?" Phyllis has suffered incredible losses in life, more than any one person should have to bear--more than most COULD bear. But the first time I met her and every time since, she has had a sweet, joyful, and other-centered spirit. She is truly compassionate and kind toward people, and reaches out to those who hurt, offering them comfort.

She is this way not because she is a strong person, but because she has found her own comfort and strength through Jesus Christ. Phyllis claims no glory for herself, but is humble and sometimes seems unsure of herself and her gifts. But God is alive through her, filling her up.

She is my heroine and I'm honored to be a friend of hers.

2008-02-05T21:38:00.000-05:00

Today I tried a crazy experiment. Let me go back to yesterday. I was kind of sad all day but went through all the appropriate motions and accomplished the work I needed to get done. Then today I dragged getting out of bed and the house, and while driving to work I realized that my lower face felt like a ten-pound sack. This has got to end, I said to myself.

I’d read an article a few months ago (I forget where) about a study on facial expressions. The research was done on people all over the world and it was discovered, not surprisingly, that no matter what culture we live in, we all use the same facial expressions to show similar emotions.

I also read in that study that it’s nearly impossible to be sad when you are smiling. So, as I drove up Route 113 I forced myself to smile. At first it wasn’t a regular, nice smile, but a Huge, Fake GRIN. I grinned and said “good morning” (no kidding) to a truck going the other way, to a speed limit sign, to a tree.

Then my grin evolved into laughter as I realized how silly I was being. But that was okay because next, I said, “Good morning farm because you give me something beautiful to look at.” "Good morning CVS because I can buy make-up there and medicine when I’m not feeling good.” “Good morning traffic light because you make driving to work safe for me.” And all the while, I was still smiling. The experiment really worked.

But that’s not all…

When I got to my office I smiled my biggest smile to Carol who looked at me sort of askance. After settling in at my desk, I looked out the window to check on my friends, Charlie, Charlotte and Buster who are always in and out of the bird feeder, when my eyes lit upon a bright, pink FLAMINGO inches from the window. In Pennsylvania.

My co-worker just had a feeling today that I might need a little cheering up. God bless her. After a while, though, we realized that Pinky had scared off all of our true feathered friends, but he had done his job and was put away. It turned out to be a great day.

2008-01-15T06:58:00.000-05:00

Single branch floats on murky water
like dreams
once flourishing, dressed in green layers
till storm breaks and scatters
stealing life

Breeze carries the branch toward shore
Great Blue Heron nudges, prods, piles
lone twigs, once refuse
to form a nesting place in the brush
anticipating

2008-01-03T20:13:00.000-05:00

Dr. David Jeremiah's website at TurningPoint.com has insightful, daily devotionals. Let me share a paragraph from today's message.

"When Jesus walked the earth, He was constantly surrounded by a multitude of people; but He knew that the most important relationship He could invest in was with His Father, for it was His voice that would lead and guide Him."

Today I asked one of my sons to pray with me to help me stay focused as I spent time with the Lord. Mike's prayer helped and I dug into the word, reading and re-reading several passages so I could gain a better understanding of God's ways and wisdom. It took a day while I was sick in bed to find the quiet I needed, so while my body is healing, my soul is also being strengthened through the most important relationship I can invest in.

2007-12-12T23:23:00.000-05:00

2007-12-03T22:54:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving came and went. I gave thanks for a home, my children and grandchildren, and then I went shopping on Black Friday. Went shopping again to Rice’s—a first—and was awed at the great bargains. Planned for semi-formal and formal dinner dances, even got my nails done. Soon I’ll package and ship gifts for my grandkids and breathe a sigh of relief if I get that done before I have to use “Priority Shipping.” No different from previous years, unfortunately.

Like the photo above, I’ll put out the decorations that include angels and Santas. But if you look VeRy closely at the picture, you will see, under the lower Santa’s feet, there is a tiny crèche. I sadly admit this represents approximately the amount of attention I have spent on the spiritual aspect of the Christmas holiday. I will think about and sing about the significance of Christ’s coming as a human being to Earth while I’m in church. And at a community “Holiday Gathering” I will work to promote a spirit of good will to all by singing carols and giving out free hot chocolate and cookies to several hundred kiddies.

My hope is this…that I will be pierced in the heart with the depth of importance and implications of the event of two-thousand years ago when God became man in the form of a newborn baby who came to Earth with one purpose—to take on himself the penalty for the sins of mankind—my sins, so that I would not have to suffer the full consequences of my wrongdoings. In the years I have lived, they are innumerable. If I dare to remember them, I could slip into hopelessness and despair. But because God has put on Jesus Christ the punishment I’ve deserved, I can live freely, without a trace of guilt, and look forward to a reward I don’t deserve—eternal life with God in Heaven. May my focus this December be gratitude to my Savior and give him the gift of my heart.

2007-11-07T00:18:00.000-05:00

While at Peace Valley Park on Monday, I thought about how the weather affects autumn colors. I'm not scientific, but it seems that when we have an extended summer as we did this year with fall temperatures in the 80s, that the leaf colors just fade . The firery reds, golds, yellows and oranges are here and there, but not all at once. I felt cheated as I walked around the lake because the trees were either mostly bare or just a dull green. But before leaving, I opened my moonroof and looked up. And there was one of the most beautiful trees I've seen this year.

Sometimes when I'm looking for the big picture, I may overlook a miracle just above me. A single tree. I would have missed it had I not looked straight up before driving away disappointed.

Lord, help me to see you in the small, daily things and not worry about the bigger picture that appears to be no big deal.

2007-11-03T10:07:00.000-04:00

I took this photo of an egret at Assateague Island in the fall of '05. I’m amazed at the clarity of the mirror image where it’s hard to distinguish the real from the reflection. My goal is to grow in my knowledge of and relationship with my Creator so that I could get to the point where I would be a mirror image of Jesus Christ. This won’t come easily—as I know too well during my thirty years as a Christian. “Two steps forward and one step back” has been the pattern of my walk, but I’m still going forward with the help of the Holy Spirit through frequent reflection and repentance. Day after day, step after step; just keep moving…even if it’s a crawl.

2007-10-27T06:54:00.000-04:00

Photo from Chincoteague 05

Fulfilling, long lasting relationships are sometimes like sunsets. As clouds separate, obscure or expose the sun, so affection, disappointment, passion and reality change the colors and patterns of love. Never exactly the same twice.

Sunsets change from one moment to another. You could almost blink and it’s over. One moment completely hidden by clouds, but in an instant, the wind could force an opening and allow brilliance to shoot across the sky. What if I had dismissed the idea of seeking out a good vantage point because the Weatherman called for “mostly cloudy”? It’s always worth a try.

What will it take to finally arrive at the top of the hill? Will the park be
nearly empty
almost dark
like it was one night this week?

As I watched the sunset I know I reflected the colors of the sky.
I had to.
I’ll continue to chase sunsets.

2007-10-27T05:53:00.000-04:00

I chased the sunset the other day.
Driving home from work
October sky captured me.

Wanting to watch uninterrupted by traffic,
I zipped into Giant’s parking lot
but lost the view altogether.
Back onto 113 then another lot
behind the Chinese restaurant.
Trees blocking now.

In minutes it would be gone,
slipping under the edge of the earth.
God, let me capture it,
draw in some of its fading light.

Two more miles to the park, speedily,
past the turnoff to home.
Finally
an unobstructed vantage point for the setting sun.

Glorious!
I stood on the ridge
Still
Hardly breathing
I pressed the shutter
seizing the ever-changing masterpiece.
Who
but God?

2007-08-25T22:20:00.000-04:00

Occasionally I go to Amazon.com just to see my book offered for sale. When I checked today, I discovered a book by Carol Diament, Moonbeams: A Hadassah Rosh Hodesh Guide. My curiosity led me to click on “see inside this book” where I read about the Jewish New Moon Festival, Rosh Hodesh, which is a symbol of renewal. Not wanting to plagiarize, I am prevented from quoting more than a few lines here, but please check it out for yourself on Amazon.

God is telling us that we need to renew ourselves. With each cycle of the moon, “…we have the opportunity to take stock of our lives and revise our behavior, our commitments, our goals. We, too, have the power to start over.”

I may never again look at the tiny sliver of a crescent moon without saying a prayer and to reevaluate whether or not I am on the path that God has called me. According to Diament’s book, the Rosh Hodesh prayer is for “life and peace, joy and gladness, deliverance and consolation.” May it be so for me and for each one reading this entry.

2007-08-14T19:40:00.000-04:00

Here I am again. Months have gone by without a word, but I am determined to try again, perhaps this time with more consistency.

The Greater Philadelphia Christian Writers’ Conference was worthwhile, as usual. This year I focused on marketing workshops in an effort to learn more tools on how to promote my novel, A Star Rises in Persia. “E Blasts” seem to be the preferred way to contact a lot of people in a short amount of time, but I’m one who hates “forwarded” email messages so I’m not entirely comfortable with it.

Speaking of forwarded emails, a few…a very few…are actually worth reading. I’ve tried to train my dear friends to be ExtrEmly SeLecTive in their choice of jokes or can’t-live-without-stories to send on to me. I, in turn, respect their precious time as well.

I subscribe to a news service that frequently has pertinent information that I would like to forward to people whom I think might be interested, but most often I pass, fearing that I might fall into the category of bored surfers with nothing else to do.

I sincerely hope that my acquaintances will not be offended by my complaints. I am AlwAys happy to receive personal notes from them with a simple “thinking of you today” message, as I often do. I love people, mostly, and thrive on communication. So write back to me, will you?

2007-06-26T06:48:00.000-04:00

My book, A Star Rises in Persia, is now available at Amazon.com, and it was an exciting moment when I received notice of my first sale. I feel as if I'm playing with the big kids now!

Summer is here and I've been enjoying taking off some time from work to enjoy the New Jersey shore. Sometime soon I plan to take a personal retreat where I can be alone to think, meditate, read scripture and pray. With the hectic pace of the last several months, I feel I've lost my center and it's time to come back.

Last night I participated in a teleseminar with authors Randy Ingermanson and Allison Bottke on the topic of "Branding." If I'm smart and follow through on their advice, I need to focus on a particular aspect of who I am as a writer. I admit that I've been "all over the map," if you'll excuse the cliche, with projects on historical fiction, single mom stories, contemporary teen fiction, poetry, and whatever else has come to my keyboard. I absolutely agree with Randy & Allison when it comes to making my writing hobby into a business, especially since at some point in my ever-increasingly rapid rate of aging I no longer have as much time as I once did. (Have I just admitted that I'm aging? Actually, a friend recently said to me, "You're getting old." Like I needed a reminder!)

You see, even in a blog I have trouble getting focused as I follow any rabbit trail my wandering mind takes me down. Perhaps during my retreat I'll have some success with coming back to center. If that happens, I'll let you know what decisions I've made. Until then...

2007-04-26T09:10:00.000-04:00

It’s been months since I’ve blogged. Could life really be so busy? Even my
journaling came to a standstill. But no more! Having attended the Delaware
Christian Writers Conference last weekend, I am again inspired and motivated
to get my keyboard back into service.

Another hindrance has been the lack of Internet access from home, which
makes blogging rather impossible. Monday night I got a Verizon techie
to help get it back up and it’s been 3 days so far! What joy! What
delight!

Enough rambling…Here’s Real News. A Star Rises in Persia has been set free
on the world. I had a book signing party March 11th and will let a friend,
Doctor Dale McIlhenny, tell you about it in a quote from his e-mail.

“Hey all, just wanted to drop you all a long overdue note. You guys have got
to get a copy of our Floss' book. It's great. And her party was amazing. She
transformed her lovely suburban home into ancient Persia wonderfully. She
and several of her friends were all dressed for the affair in very Persian
looking attire. And the food was all wonderfully authentic. She did a truly
amazing job. I'm scheduling her to throw my book signing party for me, if, I
mean when, that blessed event occurs.

“Kudos’ also to our Candy (my publisher). That book is first, first rate
Candy. I was truly impressed. I mean WOW what a quality job you did. Way to
go, sister. It was quality all the way.”

The first run of books has been sold out, but the second run will be
delivered around May 5, so if you’d like to order any books, please email me
at flocreator@msn.com. If you’d like it signed and/or made out to you (a
friend, relative, etc.), just let me know.

The book is $13.95—I don’t give change. If you want me to mail it, include that info. The postage rates go up May 14, but the current rates are first class $2.07
and media rate is $1.58ish.

2007-01-23T23:28:00.000-05:00

A Star Rises in Persia will be available for the first time in print by early March, and I'm taking pre-orders so think about how many copies you would like. I began this project about ten years ago and have shown it to authors and editors for feedback all this time. Unfortunately, Tommy Tenny beat me to the printer's while I was doing other things, but mine is different than his version although the core story is the same--based on the Book of Esther in the bible.

The novella is suited for ages 11 and up.The price per copy will be $10 or less and I'll update this information as soon as I have a definite amount.

Many thanks to my Writeen Crue for their critiques and encouragement during the last few years, and to Candy Abbott and Fruitbearer Publishing to bringing it to completion.

2006-12-14T10:16:00.000-05:00

I want to share the following note dated 12/14/06 from Peacemaker Ministries which I subscribe to as an aid in my mediation services. It's applicable to each of us, regardless of profession.

Food for Thought

Are you being a good steward of the holiday conflict God has given to you to manage on His behalf? Are there any conflicts you are "stewarding" today according to your own desires--rather than His desire? Are there any conflicts you are managing by your principles rather than His? With God's grace, any conflict you're facing can be transformed by seeing it as a stewardship opportunity for which He has given you ample resources to manage. Remember: God is the best manager of all. He would never give you a responsibility without the resources to meet that challenge.

2006-11-27T01:25:00.000-05:00

Now that I'm finished writing a single parent article, I'm devoting my "spare" time to my dusted-off historical novella. I've decided to self-publish in order to send thirty copies to Russia with my dear friend Ricki in March. Ricki has a powerful love for the university students there, and has braved the nastiest weather and travel conditions twice a year for the last five or six years (I think) to teach English. Imagine hanging out at a McDonalds near Red Square.

I've taken to listening on iTunes to a classical Persian radio station while I write since that is the locale where the story takes place and the music helps transport me across the world and time zones. It is so much fun to write fiction. You probably can't imagine my excitement when I discovered, in a thrift shop, a hand-painted miniature urn from Greece. It MUST be just like one that was used in 500 B.C. in that part of the world.

Pray for creative tornados to blow my way and free time (it may be possible) to finish this last edit.

2006-10-04T22:07:00.000-04:00

October 4, 2006

It would have been my grandfather’s birthday today. He was born in 1898, I believe. I thought of him frequently throughout the day, thoughts that made me smile and miss him. Such a fine gentleman he was, wonderful sense of humor, kind, friendly, loving, and a good example of a hard-working, sensible man who was faithful to his family. I’m glad I had a chance to say, “I love you, Pop,” before he died. He held onto his good humor until the end, sharing a joke with the nurses about them finding him a girlfriend down the hall.

I hope I can have his positive attitude toward life. I think my mother (his daughter) is that type of person. They always knew how to have a good time and laugh a lot, yet serious about serious things. A good balance.

And music! I could never forget their love of music. Pop was always playing the piano and singing. He could play anything, even when arthritis and psoriasis held his hands prisoner, he still managed to play a song. And Mom still has a song for everything. Almost any given word will prompt the line from a song—only old songs, though. I’m proud to say that I’ve inherited this trait. I may not know as many songs as she does, but I know lots of them. Thank you, Mom. Thank you, Pop.

2006-09-28T13:58:00.000-04:00

TECHNO GRANDMA

I must say this at the start--Of course I'm too young to be a granny. That said...

I love being a grandmother, but when I’ve seen friends my age at the mall with their grandkids, I envy them. And when I hear that friends have their grandkids for a sleepover, I’m jealous. Why? Because my grandchildren live on the West Coast, a long way from Pennsylvania.

However, thanks to a thoughtful gift from my far-away son and daughter-in-law, I can still see and talk to their family regularly. Last night I had an iChat (Apple Computer’s iBook and camera) with Rebecca, Madison & Tyler. 3 ½ year old Madison “read” 1002 Dalmations to me, holding up the book to show me the pictures and pointing out the bad guys. Then she sang the ABC song and Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star. When her Mommy brought in baby Tyler, Madison stroked his head and face. So sweet!

I’m grateful for the times I’ve been able to visit them in the real world, but thank you, Apple, for giving me “the next best thing to being there.”

2006-09-03T02:22:00.000-04:00

Grandchildren are one of life’s extraordinary pleasures. They don’t have to do anything. They’re born and you love them and are filled with the wonder that they have come from a little bit of you. A progeny, a descendant. It’s a wondrous thing to think about while you look into their little faces and feel their soft skin and study their fingers. God is amazing.

His love toward us is like that. Without having to do anything--just exist--His heart is full of joy because of us. Several years ago I participated in a bible study using a book, "Search for Significance." I've gone through it four times since then and each time I grasp more of what I mean to my heavenly Father. Not because I've gotten better, finally learned a lesson here or there, but just because He created me and paid for my redemption. Thank you, dear Father.

2006-08-27T02:07:00.000-04:00

I'm working on a magazine article regarding ways the church can help single parents. If you have personal experience in this area and would like to share with me your ideas, please comment. I'd love to hear from you. Thanks.

2006-08-26T09:59:00.000-04:00

Sometimes I need to stay home and be quiet. That's how it is this weekend. After being in California and returning to the East Coast followed by two days and nights of non-stop work & such, when Friday night arrived with three options for things to do, I Stayed Home to recoup. And other than having to work a few hours today, I'm opting out of two interesting activities in favor of Staying Home again. I tried to talk myself into doing some things--worthwhile activities with friends, but I knew it was time to stop, especially since I want to be in church at 9am tomorrow morning.

Do you ever feel like you're about to fall off a cliff? How do you slow down the clock to be refreshed?

Speaking of cliffs, I'll share later about some lovely cliffs that I got way too much of while in CA, but now I'm off to work. Please write.

2006-08-13T16:23:00.000-04:00

Hi friends, Blogging is a new venture for me and I'm not sure exactly where it will take us, but I welcome you to join me often and share your musings whether they're related to writing, family, the church, or the situation in the Middle East. But before I go anywhere else, I must mention that my oldest son Stephen and his wife Rebecca blessed me on 8/11 with my first grandson. Tyler was 8 lb., 8 oz. and I can't wait to meet him on Wednesday when I fly to the West Coast. The situation with the airports was bad timing for me since I'll have a long wait, but at least I have something wonderful to look forward to when I land.

I attended the Philly Christian Writers' Conference this weekend and regained a passion for writing. It has been frustrating the last several months because I've had a long commute to and from work and have been too tired to write, even journal. But the commute will end 9/1 when I return to the Counseling and Conciliation Center full time. We're going to promote our mediation service so I'll be busy in that area. In late September I'll be taking an advanced class to refine my skills.

If you or someone you know have a difficult circumstance that could use an unbiased certified conciliator, please contact me. I will work with employee, neighbor, church, or family disputes.

I hope to hear from my family and friends so don't be shy.