Blessed Moments

2010-08-18T10:37:00.003-04:00

"Dear friends,

do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering,

as though something strange were happening to you.

But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ,

so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed."

1 Peter 4:12-13

Lead Me

2010-08-18T10:13:00.002-04:00

Do you ever have an infatuation with something thats been around forever, but you just now started to love it?

It makes you ask yourself, puzzled, "Why did I not notice this before?"

I went to Soulfest a couple weeks ago and stood in the crowd, in one spot for seven hours. You do that, you know, when you want to assure a good spot for someone you want to see who's coming on to preform 5 hours later. Anyways, I rushed in when we first got there while the crowd was small, knowing it would grow and got a good spot.

I worshiped with Jason Upton (who I was SO excited to see!!), Paul Colman, Sanctus Real and then Tobymac. Jason was just as fantastic I as expected, Paul was as funny and comical as he has always been and to my surprise, Tobymac put on a spectacular show.

But the group that caught my attention was Sanctus Real! Song after song, I was just amazed at how the lyrics really spoke to me. Also, they didn't seem like the typical rock band either. They had sincere hearts... hearts devoted to God, devoted to their wives, devoted to their families....

And all of that flowed out beautifully in the performance they put on. You could just tell how genuine they were and see these were real people with real struggles and real victories. It showed so heavily in their attitude and in their lyrics.

This song in particular blessed me! I've never really seen this type of thing put to song before. The lead singer spoke about the issues he and his wife were having and how God really showed him some things:

Lead Me

I look around and see my wonderful life

Almost perfect from the outside

In picture frames I see my beautiful wife

Always smiling

But on the inside, I can hear her saying...

“Lead me with strong hands

Stand up when I can't

Don't leave me hungry for love

Chasing dreams, what about us?

Show me you're willing to fight

That I'm still the love of your life

I know we call this our home

But I still feel alone”

I see their faces, look in their innocent eyes

They're just children from the outside

I'm working hard, I tell myself they'll be fine

They're in independent

But on the inside, I can hear them saying...

“Lead me with strong hands

Stand up when I can't

Don't leave me hungry for love

Chasing dreams, but what about us?

Show me you're willing to fight

That I'm still the love of your life

I know we call this our home

But I still feel alone”

So Father, give me the strength

To be everything I'm called to be

Oh, Father, show me the way

To lead them

Won't You lead me?

To lead them with strong hands

To stand up when they can't

Don't want to leave them hungry for love,

Chasing things that I could give up

I'll show them I'm willing to fight

And give them the best of my life

So we can call this our home

Lead me, 'cause I can't do this alone

I Will Rise

2010-07-03T13:56:00.003-04:00

Have you ever tried hiding sudden, fast flowing tears when you're sitting on the aisle seat in a plane?

I have.

Its not the easiest thing ever, I will tell you! But the feeling that came with those tears were worth every second I was being watched by strangers. I would never see any of these people again, so what did it matter? I didn't have to explain myself to them :)

Even if I was asked to explain, I don't think I could! Even now (five days later) I'm just starting to grasp to fullness of my outflowing emotions!

It was Jesus. It was the God of the universe hugging me and whispering life to me. I was in the middle of reading a book that was perfect for the time. It made so many things click inside me. Then the iPod ear buds were delivering meaningful songs.

As I was reading, the song said "I will rise, when you call my name, no more sorrow, no more pain."

.... and everything in me just.... broke. I honestly felt so near to God in all His mercy and glory and splendor. He came near to me and touched me with healing... healing that has been needed for the past months finally came. Was it worth the pain? Absolutely. I feel like a whole new person.

If you're going thru hurt right now, keep praying and holding on to the promises of God!

"I have said these things to you that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world."

"I Will Rise"

Chris Tomlin

There's a peace I've come to know

Though my heart and flesh may fail

There's an anchor for my soul

I can say "It is well"

Jesus has overcome

And the grave is overwhelmed

The victory is won

He is risen from the dead

[Chorus:]

And I will rise when He calls my name

No more sorrow, no more pain

I will rise on eagles' wings

Before my God fall on my knees

And rise

I will rise

There's a day that's drawing near

When this darkness breaks to light

And the shadows disappear

And my faith shall be my eyes

Jesus has overcome

And the grave is overwhelmed

The victory is won

He is risen from the dead

I Thessalonians 5:16

2010-06-03T09:07:00.003-04:00

Letting Go; The Continuing Story

2010-05-24T10:10:00.003-04:00

Appearently God didn't think that summing up how to release our grasp on things was good enough in one post...

Last night I was reading in my devotional (which I love) 'My Utmost for His Highest' and was astounded by that day's page of wisdom.

May 23 said:

. . . do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on —Matthew 6:25

Jesus summed up commonsense carefulness in the life of a disciple as unbelief. If we have received the Spirit of God, He will squeeze right through our lives, as if to ask, “Now where do I come into this relationship, this vacation you have planned, or these new books you want to read?” And He always presses the point until we learn to make Him our first consideration. Whenever we put other things first, there is confusion.

“. . . do not worry about your life . . . .” Don’t take the pressure of your provision upon yourself. It is not only wrong to worry, it is unbelief; worrying means we do not believe that God can look after the practical details of our lives, and it is never anything but those details that worry us. Have you ever noticed what Jesus said would choke the Word He puts in us? Is it the devil? No— “the cares of this world” (MatthewMatthew 13:22 ). It is always our little worries. We say, “I will not trust when I cannot see”— and that is where unbelief begins. The only cure for unbelief is obedience to the Spirit.

The greatest word of Jesus to His disciples is abandon.

It's absolutely amazing to me that I have been dealing with letting go of different things, and the very devotional I open up to last night adds a new flavor to my most recent revelation!

God. Is. Incredible.

Letting Go

2010-05-22T18:56:00.004-04:00

When I say that title, it brings me great relief. Comfort too.

But that wouldn't have been the case in the not too distant past. It would have caused me to hang on tighter and scream like a stubborn young child... I wouldn't have wanted to let go at all. I would have said that this situation is necessary... I just need this to happen... I really do believe in that person... Its really ok because I can handle this.

Then I found out I cant.

In fact, I crumble under the immense stress and anxiety of holding onto to something that may not be His will. And God made something even more clear to me than I knew before...

We aren't supposed to.

We shouldn't carry the load. We aren't supposed to hang onto things that bring us worry or stress.

"Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you." (1 Peter 5:7)

"Cast your burden on the LORD, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved." (Psalm 55:22)

Or even the latter portion of Matthew 6 shows us amazing promise...

I have read these verses many many times and even thought that I did let things go... But not until I held on to something long enough to create hurt and pain, did I finally give up and let God take the reins, the burden. I guess I was pretty stubborn that way. :(

You know that feeling that rushes over and through you when you breathe a huge sigh of relief? There isn't really a way to describe it.. it's just amazing. Well after truly letting go and having God take what He really does want to take and free us from, healing, peace and joy are now in it's place.

It's like living with a constant happy sigh of relief...

A More Beautiful You

2010-04-22T20:32:00.001-04:00

Little girl fourteen flipping through a magazine
Says she wants to look that way
But her hair isn't straight her body isn't fake
And she's always felt overweight

Well little girl fourteen I wish that you could see
That beauty is within your heart
And you were made with such care your skin your body and your hair
Are perfect just the way they are

There could never be a more beautiful you
Don't buy the lies disguises and hoops they make you jump through
You were made to fill a purpose that only you could do
So there could never be a more beautiful you

Little girl twenty-one the things that you've already done
Anything to get ahead
And you say you've got a man but he's got another plan
Only wants what you will do instead

Well little girl twenty-one you never thought that this would come
You starve yourself to play the part
But I can promise you there's a man whose love is true
And he'll treat you like the jewel you are

So turn around you're not too far
To back away be who you are
To change your path go another way
It's not too late you can be saved
If you feel depressed with past regrets
The shameful nights hope to forget
Can disappear they can all be washed away
By the one who's strong can right your wrongs
Can rid your fears dry all your tears
And change the way you look at this big world
He will take your dark distorted view
And with His light He will show you truth
And again you'll see through the eyes of a little girl

Reward After Waiting

2010-04-14T17:51:00.003-04:00

I recently bought a car! My beloved Subaru went to car heaven back in December, so since then, I've been looking for something else! It's taken me 4 months to FINALLY get this one.

YAY!

Craigslist and I became pretty close friends. We knew each others thoughts after a while.

But he failed me. I had countless unanswered emails, phone calls that got cut off mid-sentence with the sellers, meeting with mean people to see cars and even scheduling to see cars and they sell RIGHT before I get there.

I decided to ditch my buddy, Craigslist and just wait. I threw my hands in the air and "Fine! I give up!"

In all seriousness, I felt God was telling me to hold on. To wait. I then believed that it was beyond me to find something (obviously!) so I left it to Him.

And He provided!

And I'll give you a hint: He did not use Craigslist :)

He used a sweet, kindred-spirited, honest, elderly gentleman to sell me the car.

The transaction was smooth. I wrote a check and I had such a peace. Exhaling with relief, I relaxed and looked at what God gave me :) Even the make/brand I secretly wanted!

I'm a little too lazy to take a picture of my actual car but this looks JUST like it-- my Volkswagon Jetta.

When He provides, it's truly wonderful :)

Authenticity Rules

2010-04-07T11:47:00.003-04:00

This morning was not unlike many other mornings. I was standing in front of one of the up-close mirrors in our bathroom putting on mascara. My 15 year old brother was standing at the other mirror in front of the sink brushing his teeth.
Our conversation went like this:

Him: "Are you putting on that lash booster gel thing we saw on tv?"
Me: "No, just the regular stuff."
Him: "Good because that's just weird. It looks all dumb because you know it's not real. Looks bad all abnormally long..."

I smiled.

I appreciated hearing that from him! Someone I DID NOT expect to hear it from. I loved the fact that he has come to love and appreciate girls just for who they are.

So there you have it my lady friends! Straight from a boy in his mid teens and high school years! Authenticity rules in my opinion and appereantly in his opinion too :)
The moral of this story? Don't do "lash boosters." Just kidding, but seriously gals, just be yourself! Just tastefully enhance who you are and relax...

Because that's perfect.

99 Balloons

2010-04-06T13:25:00.002-04:00

This video is the ultimate example of that verse in Job...

You know the one you just absolutely love the sound of, but it still stirs something in you. Maybe because we are of a carnal nature and having definitive answers is pretty important to us. Where trust or faith don't come easy.

But yet, it's one of our favorite verses. It expresses the simple, childlike understanding and knowing we are supposed to have in God.

If you've never seen this video, grab a tissue and watch the 6 minute journey this family took and experienced fully Job 1:21

"The Lord gives and Lord takes away. Blessed be the name of the Lord."

Li'l Bit O' Love

2009-11-05T17:43:00.003-05:00

Love comes in many, many different shapes, sizes, colors and forms. Each one very special! Maybe you are familiar with Gary Chapman's 'Five Love Languages'.

It's in the smile someone passes to you...

It's in the warm embrace you just received...

It's in the 2-hour drive, filled with laughter and good conversation...

It's in the sunset you see on the horizon every night painted by our Heavenly Father...

It's in the compliment your dear friend just gave you...

It's in the sweet laugh of a loved one...

It's in the admiring look...

It's in the high-five from your coworker...

It's in the warm peck on the cheek you just gave your dear friend...

It's in the time it took to type that text message...

It's in the meal your wife just made for you...

A sign of sincere love came to me today in a Kleenex-wrapped gift from my manager. :)

Staying Sickness-Free

2009-10-31T00:39:00.003-04:00

I work in a very public place and I'm so aware of keeping my hands and things around me clean. More conscience of it than ever, I believe. Here are somethings I'm putting into practice, hoping for the best!

-Drink lots of water. Keeping hydrated flushes things out of your system.

-Vitamin C is essential. Whether in tablets or thru orange juice. It is a water-soluble vitamin so you really can't dangerously O.D. on it... you body can only retain and use a certain percentage a day, so it will flush the rest.

-Echinacea. Another preventative vitamin. Available in teas or suppliments.

-Wash hands frequently. Sanitizer is handy, but have old-fashioned soap and water as first choice. You do need some germs to keep your immune system up, so killing 99.9% like the sanitizer claims, really isn't good ALL the time.

-Eat lemons also along with oranges. Citrus has the vitamin C. Put it in your echinacea tea!

-As a general rule, keep hands away from your face.

-Eat honey! Preferably raw because the enzymes haven't been zapped. But regular honey is better than nothing. It contains the enzymes the builds your immune system.

Put it in your echinacea tea with the lemon ;) :-P

-Keep active! Sedentary habits aren't good. Keeping active and strong helps reduce the risk of letting a "bug" you may have picked up from festering.

-If you don't think you're giving your body the defense it needs, try Airborne or Emergen-C! They do the job wonderfully! And in short order! ;)

Appreciated Indian Summer

2009-10-21T19:05:00.021-04:00

Indian summers are the best thing.

They are God's way of giving us a couple more days of the previous, beloved season in the midst of the approaching cold. How wonderful they are!

What did you do with this shockingly warm weather? I know I felt like I couldn't do enough, smell enough, see enough and feel enough to soak up these amazing past days.

I walked on the beach, visited the light house, drove thru all my favorite parts of my town, stopped and sat and thought... feeling the cool breeze across my face.

It's also worked out wonderfully that I've been 100% free the last two days! Leaving me to do whatever I wanted. It's been so sweet... back to reality tomorrow.

A photo documentary of a New England "Indian Summer":

The Untitled Post

2009-09-03T14:22:00.007-04:00

Stereotypes are sad. But human nature is somewhat predictable... so therefore stereotypes often are correct. Not always, I know, as I'm here to show you, but often very very close.

I started my job over a year ago. They have a very rigid dresscode and everyone must conform to a T.

So everyone looks one way at work and usually you only see them in your work enviroment, so they burn an image in your mind of how they look. The white chefs coats, the hats, the black aprons, the collared white shirts, tan pants, checkered pants, black shoes...

As it has been proved in private schools when kids and young adults have to have a uniform, walls are usually broken and everyone is no longer judged as much on appearence (to a very large degree, and exceptions noted). But you just tend to like them for who they are and not what they look like because, well, everyone looks pretty much the same.

Over the last couple months, we had a work meeting where everyone was present OUTSIDE of work. Wearing normal clothes. Being their normal selves.

To be honest, half of them I wouldn't recognize if I passed them in a grocery store or on the street.

Back to the issue of stereotypes:

Are you generally intimidated by how people look? Do you often avoid people because of their outward appearance?

Well at the meeting, I sat back, amidst the laughter, talking, jokes and instruction from my manager and was taught a very big lesson. Never should I judge someone by how they look. The saying "Dont judge a book by it's cover" rang in my mind, trust me. You're probably saying "Hannah, come on. That's like one of the simplest lessons in life". Yes, I guess it is. But only after I truly enjoyed and truly cared for my coworkers and realized how many paths of life and personality types we had on one team, is when it became real to me :)

I am privileged to know many wonderful people in my life and I count my coworkers, my cafe family, apart of that also.

Winds of Change

2009-08-30T17:27:00.002-04:00

It's as if we hit a wall! One day we were sweating from the humidity. The honest-to-goodness next day it was chilly. There was a briskness to the air. A bite.

The change is so abrupt! I like fall, I really do, but summer is my favorite. We're the best of friends.

I feel as if she left me...

*sigh* I'm praying for an Indian Summer! :) At least a couple more days... Yes, just a couple with some warmth.

But either way fall brings lots of fun things.

Where I've Been

2009-08-13T17:59:00.003-04:00

Hey there!

As a church, we did a "30-day Spiritual Bootcamp". We took 30 days and set them aside to SET ASIDE the things that we normally consume our time with.

Also know as:

Computer-

-Email

-Facebook

-Blogging

Movies that aren't inspirational

Video games

Music that is not God-glorifying

And we took that time to study the bible, pray more often and do things that normally would get pushed aside.

For me, I did what was required but I also did things that didn't glorify me. I dont like to bring attention to myself normally, but this last 30 days I went above and beyond to bring glory to God and give special attention to those around me.

It was wonderful! Dont get me wrong, it was extremely difficult... Withdrawals were heavy the first week ;) But it put everything into perspective for me. It showed me what was truly important and what was just "time-fillers".

So, just to let you know, I have been gone on purpose and am back! with a new perspective.

4 Added Smiles

2009-07-08T20:03:00.002-04:00

Much to my despare, the photos taken while hosting the 4 little boys were "mysteriously" deleted from the camera. (*clearing throat* Stevie, my brother)

We had so much fun with them! The 10 days went by so quickly!

This was really the last time we'll be able to truly spend time with them, so it was so awesome to be able to bless their family in this way.

Here are some of our highlights:

Happiness is...

Eating chocolate belgian waffles with whipped cream.

Getting sand everywhere and all over from the beach.

Watching a 6 year old learn to ride a two-wheeler.

Kissing very kissable, little cheeks for the 10,000th time.

Laughing until we cried... kids really do say the darndest things!

Getting 11 ice cream cones to the exact specifications of it's recipient.

Completely using a bottle of sunscreen on 11 different little faces and bodies.

Playing in the endless rain.

Taking more than one vehicle to any one destonation.

Staying up for 38.5 hours.

Watching little ones toast marshmallows 4 feet away from the actual flame.

Rolling up mini sleeping bags decorated with the beloved Lightening McQueen.

Setting the table for an army every evening.

Choking on a laugh while a little boy says something so matter of fact.

Counting rain drops with an adorable 4 year-old.

Rocking a darling to sleep while he chooses to tell me why the seeds are on the outside of a strawberry.

Waking up to lots of little smiles and sleepy eyes.

Enjoying every moment to the fullest...

Simple Pleasures

2009-06-29T22:34:00.004-04:00

Happy moments are falling asleep while eating ice cream. :-)

We have 4 wonderful boys that have been added to our family for 10 days. Today being really the first day. I'm going to try to post some funny pictures that capture humorus moments with them apart of our family.

What brings a smile to your face during the hustle and bustle of a normal day?

Today's Moment

2009-06-25T22:37:00.003-04:00

In my last post, I talked about noting the special moments in life.

Well this was my precious moment today:

If you were in the locker room at my place of employment at around 10:45 this morning, you would have found me leaning in the corner of the lockers opening a card. It was a card that was given to my mother the day before from a coworker of mine. It was addressed to me.

Somehow my gut told me what was inside. I didn't want to believe it. And to my great despair, I was right on the money. My lovely coworker, whom I have grown really attached to (which isn't a new thing) decided it was time to leave. She was enduring things that she shouldn't have been at all... I knew it truly was only a matter of time. Because of that I cherished the days we worked together even more.

She left without warning so the note was her 'goodbye' to me. I stood there, hunkered in the locker room about to cry. But they really were selfish tears... I know there are better things out there for her and I'm wishing her all the best.

The fact that she took the time to actually say 'goodbye' to me in the best way she could at the moment, touched me.

She had a wonderful smile. Yes, and an infectious laugh. Her sense of humor was delightful. I will miss her dearly but hope to keep in touch.

Lovely Lisa cared.

That was precious to me.

Posting for the Sake of Posting

2009-06-24T18:29:00.003-04:00

Despite popular speculation, I haven't died. No in fact I've been finding a lot of things to fill my time! The time I normally would be spending here boring, I mean entertaining you, I have done other things. I know I've neglected this bloggy land, but trust me I log on here to daily or so to keep up with all the lovely blogs I follow. Not a post goes unread :)

Also I've felt very much insignifigant. Very much.... boring, actually. Life is very busy and keeping me on my toes, but it's just not something to post about! I dont know how to explain it. Maybe I've become completely blind to the "postable" subjects that happen everyday. In the busyness of my life and focusing on my next engagement or next scheduled commitment, I've lost sight of the small things that normally catch my watchful eye... that normally bring me great delight.

Definitely! I believe that's it. I haven't taken time to stop and smell the roses.

Ok now that I have realized that, I am starting on a new foot today. Right now in fact. I normally notice every little thing but haven't noticed much of anything lately. My mind has been focused on seemingly important things, but appearently they are not. Actually the narture of my recent consuming thoughts drain me of energy and life and zeal.

Starting this moment I am giving them to God and looking forward to the next moment when I am able to again smell the posies and notice the little, but precious things in life.

Expect me here again soon. :)

A Breath of Fresh Air

2009-05-15T18:31:00.003-04:00

I was blessed today at work by a customer. Which, I'm sad to say, hardly ever happens.

I saw this very elderly gentleman waiting patiently in line for his turn to cash out. My station today happened to be the cash-out register. When he approached, I saw many, many wrinkles from life's long, hard road. Glasses covering squinting eyes and a shabby beard.

His smile was genuine though... which made his entire outward appearance seem flawless. He had a peaceful presence about him. A huge part of me when he approached wanted to walk around the counter and hug him, for which at the time I couldn't understand.

I am usually the first to talk when a customer comes to the counter. He however immediately greeted me with "How is your day going, Hannah?"

I replied that it was going well and asked him the same in return.

To which he said, "Every day to me is a gift... I treat it as though it was my last, because by all rights, I shouldn't be here now."

I stared with a puzzled look. "After my life saving kidney transplant, in which one of my children was the donor, life has taken on a whole new perspective."

I cant even remember what I said as we ended the transaction. All I know is that after he turned away, I remember blinking and wiping away a tear.

God's Special Gift: Mother

2009-05-10T18:02:00.002-04:00

When God set the world in place,

when He hung the stars up in space,

when He made the land and the sea,

then He made you and me.

He sat back and saw all that was good,

He saw things to be as they should.

Just one more blessing He had in store;

He created a mother, but whatever for?

He knew a mother would have a special place

to shine His reflection on her child's face.

A mother will walk the extra mile

just to see her children smile.

She'll work her fingers to the bone

to make a house into a home.

A mother is there to teach and guide,

a mother will stay right by your side.

She'll be there through your pain and strife,

she'll stay constant in your life.

A mother will lend a helping hand

until you have the strength to stand.

She'll pick you up when you are down,

when you need a friend she'll stick around.

A mother is one who listens well,

will keep her word; will never tell.

A mother never pokes or pries

but stands quietly by your side,

giving you the strength you need,

encouraging you to succeed.

A mother is one who can be strong

when you need someone to lean on.

You're more than a mother to me;

a reflection of Him in your face I see,

a love that knows no boundaries.

I'm glad that you chose to be

all this and more to me.

You share a love that knows no end,

you're more than my mother,

you are my friend.

-Kari Keshmiry

God Winks

2009-05-08T18:59:00.003-04:00

Dont you just love those moments? You know, those ones that make your mouth drop open in blessed disbelief? Those small-world moments? Coincidences?

I love them. I'm tickled pink when things like that happen to me.

Well my lovely aunt found a website and a man completely devoted to those 'wow' moments. This man, SQuire Rushnell, likes to call the small-world times "God Winks."

How neat is that? 'God Winks'! It's like God saying "Hey Kid! I'm thinking of you right now!"

I would encourage you to click on over to his website and watch SQuire tell some stories right out of the three books he has published. They are about 3 minutes long.

Be prepared to be truly amazed.

Here are some of my favorites :)

What is a God Wink?

The Crystal Cathedral

Alice and Jack

A Dreary Day... More Than Weather

2009-05-06T15:01:00.004-04:00

I was talking with someone yesterday and it sort of stirred something in me that normally isn't there. In fact, I've never felt this. It bothered me greatly.

After deep thought, I heard something in my gut whisper "discontentment".

I shuddered.

I've never felt this way. Being content is something I thank God for because I believe it's something He has blessed me with as a person. It's a quality that is naturally woven into my personality. Being content constantly means I'm just always fine with whatever. Always fine with where God has placed me. Always fine in almost every situation.

And not just 'always fine', but genuinely fine.

Being content means I try my hardest to fulfill the old saying "Bloom where you are planted."

But for the first, honest-to-goodness time I felt.... lower? Less valuable? Insignificant? Incapable?

I felt like I was nothing... Especially in the shadow of the person I was talking to. He had done so much in his still young life and it stunned me how different we truly were.

I was mentally comparing myself to the places he's gone and the seemingly boring travels I've made. Mentally comparing myself to the adventures he's had and what I thought was pretty significant in my life. Mentally comparing myself to his out-of-high school education and my cooking classes.

Mentally comparing myself to his usual schedule and the things he does and what I do. I know I am extremely busy, but when trying to tell a curious person about my daily life, I'm struck with it's apparent dullness.

This wasn't normal for me. It was definitely a new experience and I combated it with God's word and the promises I know it holds.

I heard God saying "I have something greater for you. You know Me and the higher purpose I have called you to compared to those around you. Hold onto Me."

This situation opened me eyes to how quickly the enemy can slip into an area I thought was secure and meddle. The enemy is there looking for every opportunity.

Thank the Lord we have Someone to go to with our cares and troubles who is bigger than everything we can imagine!

Connecting One Generation to Another

2009-04-10T19:44:00.005-04:00

Recently, for kicks, my lovely aunt typed in my grandfather's name into Google. Actually she typed every single one of our names, but this one amazed me. I mean I was simply struck.

She typed in his name intending to find my brother somewhere but because my brother shares the exact name with my grandfather, my great-grandfather and my great-great-grandfather this came up: She clicked on one of Google's links and then realized it was a digitized article from the 'Pomeroy Tribune'. She looked at the date and realized it contained simple information about my great great grandfather in 1891. I was staring at the computer screen seeing a couple sentences about my great grandfather and a baseball game he pitched in as an adult.

The fact that someone digitized that telegraph from so long ago amazed me. Having something that linked me to my grandfather whom I never knew, and will never know, stunned me. I had an overwhelming feeling---- the kind that comes when cross paths with a certain person who suddenly makes the world feel small. The kind that comes and makes you just stand there and stare in unbelief.

I cant believe there is something actually out there that connects me to my great-great-grandfather over 118 years ago. It connects the 19th century to the 21st.

Food... For Thought?

2009-04-05T17:44:00.005-04:00

The other day my mother and I were throwing together a quick lunch for the family and were going to serve canned green beans a quick and easy side dish. We dont make a diet on canned veggies or fruits, because well, they hold little to no nutritional value. But when we're in a hurry, they are a good "filler".

I went to the shelf and picked three random cans. I came up stairs, opened them, poured them in a pan and found this!

The color differences in all three can amazed me. The one that grosses me out the most is the one to the far right. The bright, pretty green one. The can read "Veggi-Green". In the ingredients list it said "Green beans, water, salt and zinc chloride for stabilization of color". Does that say "eeww" to anyone else? I found the 'No Salt Added' coloring interesting. That means that the salt preserves it, so sitting in a can for a while with no salt makes it fade. Then the other ones were just normal (beans, water, salt).

I found the variances in color interestesting.... maybe disturbing.

Johnny's Birthday Painted Blue

2009-04-04T10:14:00.010-04:00

We saw The Blue Man Group for Johnny's birthday. It was, I can honestly say, one of the coolest, craziest and most fun performances I've EVER seen.

Thinking outside of the box could be the biggest understatement of all time. They think of things I never would. Their specialty is music and loud, loud, loud percussion. They wind so much humor in it (thankfully very clean) that it makes for an amazing time. You are either laughing hysterically, screaming (when told to), clapping, jumping, waving hands--- it was just a BLAST. I guess their shows have different "names" around the country and world because this one was titled "Tubes". A lot of their props were tubes and it was fascinating! And what's the coolest thing, I think, is that they are completely expressionless during the show. They show no emotion and dont talk nor smile nor laugh. They just look at each other and make motions and are able to communicate with each other perfectly. I was surprised at how much the audience knew exactly what they were "saying" with their motions.

Moral of the story: See a Blue Man Group if you have a chance--

You certainly wont regret it!!

Because they prohibit photos during the show, here are some pictures I stole from Google of last night's performance:

And here are photos we took after the show:

Us and two of the Blue Men!

Encouragement Boost

2009-03-27T08:36:00.003-04:00

Welcome to my first Encouragement Boost!

I want my blog to not only be a place where I post my random thoughts, but a place of encouragement. Granted, I dont always have days that are filled purely with sunshine and flowers, but that's life. So you may catch a less than encouraging post here-and-there, but for the most part I try to post things that have blessed me, uplifted me or encouraged me.

So in the future, expect blog posts titled this. Life is full of ups and downs, but this particular series of posts are focusing on either the 'ups' or things that give us something to smile at when we are in the 'downs'.

Encouragement Boost- March 27:

"And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever-- the Spirit of Truth. The world cannot accept him because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him for He live with you and will be in you."
John 14:16-17

Red Envelope Day

2009-03-25T20:14:00.002-04:00

Friends,

On March 31st, 2009: get a red envelope. You can buy them at Kinkos, or party supply stores.

On the front, address it to:

President Barack Obama

The White House

1600 Pennsylvania Ave. NW

Washington, DC 20500

On the back, write the following message:

"This envelope represents one child who died because of an abortion. It is empty because the life that was taken is now unable to be a part of our world. Responsibility begins with conception."

It may seem that those who believe abortion is wrong are in a minority. It may seem like we have no voice & it's shameful to even bring it up. Let us show our President & the world that the voices of those of us who do not believe abortion is acceptable are not silent & must be heard.

Barack Obama spoke at a Planned Parenthood Action Fund event, uttering the now infamous line, "Well, the first thing I'd do as president is sign the Freedom of Choice Act. {applause.} That's the first thing that I'd do."

An empty red envelope will send a message to President Obama that there is moral outrage over this issue (the Freedom of Choice Act, which will undo every law currently in place to limit abortion in the U.S. (parental consent laws, parental notification, waiting periods, prohibition of transporting a minor girl across state lines to obtain an abortion, etc.)).

It will be quiet, but clear.

Mail the envelope on March 31st, 2009Then forward this event to every one of your friends who you think would send one too.

Please visit their website: www.RedEnvelopeDay.com

Ten Saint Patty's Ago

2009-03-17T18:12:00.006-04:00

If you were at Logan Airport 10 years ago tonight, you'd see an energetic grandmother holding a four-year-old boy's hand trailing luggage behind her. You'd see a mother walking with an eight year-old girl and a six-year-old boy, all carrying travel bags filled with summer clothes.

We, my brothers, grandmother and mom, were boarding a plane bound for the tropical island of Puerto Rico. The first time we'd been out of the 48 consecutive states. We traded the bitter cold of New England for palm trees and an 85-degree breeze!

I always approach Saint Patrick's day with somewhat of a solemn feeling. A good feeling really because I'm flooded with memories of that trip, but it's just a yearly reminder that time is not passing, but flying by. I remember that trip in such detail. I could almost account for every minute-- every adventure, every fresh coconut we ate, all the hot bread in the morning, the fresh mangoes we picked from the patio of my Great-Great Aunt, the crazy car rides on congested roads, the mountains, the magnificent sound of the Coqui in the evenings, the endless family we met, the houses. It was an incredible trip. I dont think there has been one that matches it.

Minutes turn into hours, hours turn into days and days into years. Embrace today! :)

Grandma Maria, Me (8), Johnny (6)

Johnny watching a coconut being cleaned!

Stevie (4 yrs) holding a chick!

Spring, Spring! Where Art Thou?

2009-03-15T19:11:00.006-04:00

I cant believe it's halfway thru March already! I'm greatly looking forward to spring... But, as the calender proved to me today when I looked at, it is on it's speedy way.
Unfortunately here in the state of Maine, it doesn't arrive as soon as other states.

Right now, Floridians are possibly coming out of hiding, breaking out the swimsuits and hitting the beach.

People in Tennessee and Kentucky are watching the temperature rise and grass will turn green and early flowers and leaves are emerging from their winter sleep in a couple short weeks.

But Maine? No... we've got a full out month or month and a half until we see green lovelies popping out on branches and bushes. That month can dump on us Mainers a nice, heavy 15 inches of snow too.

But spring will arrive and I find solace in that. The dullness of winter does a number on one's attitude and mental state of mind.

I heard a bird today! I walked out and got the mail and a familiar but long-lost sound reached my ears. A bird sang to me. It made my heart so happy.

Home School Humor

2009-03-10T19:25:00.003-04:00

THIS MADE ME LAUGH.

Home schoolers would find this very humorous!

Lessons From The Back of the House

2009-03-08T21:55:00.006-04:00

I've learned many things while working in the restaurant field. And I'm not even working in a REAL, full-blown restaurant. It's a cafe that has a full kitchen and serves hot food. But it can get very hectic and stressful when things are busy and every worker is just trying to have everything run smoothly and be polite and helpful to the customers.

Things I've learned that will change the way I dine out:

1.) Try to verify my order a couple times if possible with the waiter/waitress taking the order.

2.) BE PATIENT.

3.) Be friendly to the server. They are dealing with a lot. If you have worked in a restaurant at all, you know that things can get ugly in the back of the house (restaurant term for kitchen). I've no idea what could have just been hurled at them right before they came to our table.... either verbally or physically. :-P lol. We (servers) are very often caught in the middle.

4.) If the food is a little behind, dont shoot the messenger. Most likely, it truly isn't the server... it's the kitchen because if we come around lunch time or dinner, they are bogged down with orders.

And if I see the server running around, they are obviously very busy and who knows! this may be their first or second day.

5.) IF AN ORDER COMES OUT WRONG and I've been waiting a while, TAKE A DEEP BREATH. Just breathe. I promise, we're not gonna die and if I work kindly with them, they will do their best to improvise or change the mistake.

Now if someone works in a restaurant, I've got a whole separate list of things I've learned. That's another can of worms... Looking at things on the flip side!

Mightily Used Misfits

2009-03-03T21:52:00.005-05:00

When God calls you to do something whether large or small, do you feel incapable? Do feel like, in the middle of your journey when things get unsteady and hard, He may just have chosen the wrong person? Do you want to curl up in a corner and cry? Do you feel weak? Maybe even unworthy?

I've been reading a very good book lately and the author of this book quotes something Rick Warren has said which I found beyond encouraging:

"Abraham was old, Jacob was insecure, Leah was unattractive, Joseph was abused, Moses stuttered, Gideon was poor, Samson was codependent, Rahad was immoral, David had an affair and all kinds of family problems, Elijah was suicidal, Jeremiah was depressed, Jonah was reluctant, Naomi was a widow, John the Baptist was eccentric to say the least, Peter was impulsive and hot-tempered, Martha worried a lot, the Samaritan women had several failed marriages, Zachaeus was unpopular, Thomas had doubts, Paul had poor health and Timothy was timid. That's quite a group of misfits, but God used each of them in His service. He will use you too."

Funny to look at it that way, huh? I've never really seen it in that light. I've known different people from the bible to be... well, human, but just seeing it at a glance like that encourages me!

Dont look at your inabilities and dwell in insecurities. Look at the Almighty God. See this call as the opportunity to watch Him work in you and through you.

If you are feeling discouraged in doing what you believe God has called you to do, take heart! there's hope.

A Recent Scare

2009-02-28T12:12:00.003-05:00

Yesterday our computer wouldn't turn on.

Well it would but it would just come to a black, dark, horrible screen with a gray blinking cursor.
That's never happened before.
I know there are certain symptoms (if you will) to different problems with a computer, and this one didn't look promising. In fact it was frightening.

Dad dared to mention "It may be a corrupted file... we may have to wipe the hard drive."

*GASP*

WHAT??!! The hard drive only holds the last 5 years of our entire LIVES!! Pictures and videos and word documents and files and schooling cds and hours of music file downloads and and and and!

Starring at that horrific, black lifeless screen yesterday morning when I got up made me sick. It gave me the feeling of death. Just knowing the last 5 years of memories and documentation was about 12 inches from my finger tips inside the dock of the computer and possibly not being able to retrieve them EVER made me sick. I cherish memories and that's a sensitive topic for me, so having the thought that I may have to witness it being scratched from existence rubbed me in a very bad, bad way.

Ready for some light? The computer miraculously turned on! How, we have no idea. But I guarantee you we aren't shutting it off until we get some stuff backed up.

The moral of this story? Spend about $49 for a year of service from Carbonite .
It's a service that is constantly backing your computer up electronically into their system. Therefore, if something dreadful happens, like your computer crashes, you can have some peace of mind! Sounds like a worth-while $49!

You Mustn't Quit

2009-02-25T14:17:00.003-05:00

When things go wrong, as they sometimes will,

When the road you're trudging seems all uphill,

When the funds are low and the debts are high

And you want to smile, but you have to sigh,

When care is pressing you down a bit,

Rest! if you must---but never quit.

Life is queer, with its twists and turns,

As every one of us sometimes learns,

And many a failure turns about

When he might have won if he'd stuck it out;

Stick to your task, though the pace seems slow---

You may succeed with one more blow.

Success is failure turned inside out---

The silver tint of the clouds of doubt---

And you never can tell how close you are,

It may be near when it seems afar;

So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit---

It's when things seem worst that YOU MUSTN'T QUIT.

Taken from The Book of Virtues by William Bennett

TeenPact

2009-02-21T22:37:00.009-05:00

I REGISTERED MY BROTHER AND I FOR TEENPACT!!!

YAY!

I'm so excited. I cant wait for this in two months. But the two months will come soon enough I guess. Gives me something really great to look forward to.

Not familiar with TeenPact? It's a Christian organization that "turns students into statesmen". You spend 4 days at the Capitol of your state and learn everything about it. You learn what goes on there on a daily basis and everything. You learn all about government and how it works and operates. The experience is incredible. I went last year with my brother (and many other friends) and pretty much was kicking all the way there and then was plopped on the Capitol steps. But on the last day I found myself in tears because of not wanting it to end!

It touched me in ways I didn't think could happen. Or at least didn't think this thing that my mother wanted me to go to called TeenPact would do this. It opened my eyes in a couple aspects: personally and academically.

1.) (Academically) It opened my eyes to everything that goes on in government. That's kind of a candid statement. Up until that point last year, I had rough idea about government, the Capitol and voting and electing etc etc.

Judicial? Is that some sort of religious follower?

A lobbyist? Someone who works at the front desk of a fancy hotel?

A bill? Oh I know what that is! It tells you how much money you owe for your electric.

Yeah... sad huh? I mean I had a rough idea like I said. Enough to know about the Constitution and laws and Senators and Presidents, but what about the small things in between? Nope. It changed my whole aspect for everything political. I realized, from the different experiences and things at TeenPact, how easy it is to really become involved in you so chose. Heck, we (as a group of 30 or so kids) caused a ruckus in the Capitol just by taking a survey. (We were banned from all rooms and confined to that hallways) That is a story in itself.

But honestly, it perked my interest greatly and my knowledge soared. Then and since then. Now if I hear or read about something, I actually know what they are talking about!

2.) (Personally) It made me realize how much I really was in a box. I had an extreme comfort-zone. Actually it slapped me in the face very, very hard. With everything TeenPact had us do as students, it made me LEAP from my comfort-zone. Well actually my zone was snagged away from me and I was left there. That was a really really good thing. Now I know that I can do things that make me uncomfortable and I will survive. I will come out a bigger person after.

Now this year Johnny and I are going back as Alumni. AND we will be lodging with all the students, where as last year we commuted. The experience will be altogether different. As Alumni the homework is a bit more challenging and the things we actually do apart from the first-timers is different. Staying at the camp THRILLS me. It was quite a bit more money for that factor, but I weighed out the meaning and the benefits and thought it a good investment. It will give the students a chance to mingle apart from being dressed in business suits and heels and being consumed with activities at the Capitol. To have the chance to talk with the incredible staff members and then have time to spend together as groups of guys and girls in the evenings will be great.

I'm diving into the pre-class homework and tackling it and looking forward to the reward it holds in April.

Me holding my TeenPact Registration receipt.

"While I'm Waiting"

2009-02-12T18:59:00.007-05:00

I've recently found a new song. A new song that I love like nothing I've ever heard. Like I'm truly serious. You know that kind where you just listen for the first time and your jaw drops open?

Wait, wait wait... I want to start this off right: GOD IS INCREDIBLE.

There are recent things that have been revealed to me that confirms a lot of things inside me. I just feel like I'm going to be doing some waiting. A considerable amount. Things are going to come slow for me, I have a feeling. In what area of life that means, I have NO IDEA. With every confirmation recently, I've been tried. Guess it's just a hard pill to swallow.
I'm usually a patient person. Generally content all the time... but occasionally impatience comes in waves. During those times it's very painful and very, very hard. I'm sure you, reader, know what I mean... you've most likely had to wait for something(s) at some point.

Well this song that I found has been playing all the time. On the computer, my iPod, in my car... it's even stalked me in a recent movie. It's like a "whoa God, I get the picture" kind of thing. Yet the words (every single word) resinates in me. I feel like I could have wrote it!

I think I've found my personal anthem for this point in my life.

The song is called 'While I'm Waiting' by John Waller. It's from his album 'Blessing'. I have it on my playlist at the bottom of this page... so it should be playing when you read this. By the time you've read this far, it's probably half done. I'd go hit repeat.

Here are the words:

I'm waiting
I'm waiting on You, Lord
And I am hopeful
I'm waiting on You, Lord
Though it is painful
But patiently, I will wait

I will move ahead, bold and confident
Takeing every step in obedience
While I'm waiting, I will serve You
While I'm waiting, I will worship
While I'm waiting, I will not faint
I'll be running the race
Even while I wait

I'm waiting
I'm waiting on You, Lord
And I am peaceful
I'm waiting on You, Lord
Though it's not easy
But faithfully, I will wait
Yes, I will wait,I will serve You while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting
I will serve You while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting
I will serve you while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting on You, Lord

Closeness or Distance?

2009-02-08T17:22:00.006-05:00

I've always known that I have the habit of attaching myself to people very quickly, but recently over the last 2 months that fact has really been smacking me in the face.
I'm not really sure if that's a good thing or not. Seeing that usually I dont get the chance or am able to fully communicate to the people that I DO in fact care for them in a big way.
It's been brought to my attention a lot recently, like I said, thru work. I love my job. Seriously, it's not JUST the stuff I do when I'm there and interacting with people, but I LOVE the people I work with. Like I've mentioned here before, the co-workers make or break the job for me. Well again, over the last 2 months, 3 different ladies that I worked with have all left for personal reasons. I miss them so very much. :(
Not that I mind that they didn't end up saying goodbye or giving me one last hug, but it just seems like I cared for them more than they knew.
This whole dilemma of my attachments to people I've known about for sometime. It really only becomes apparent to me when someone leaves... someone I love leaves my picture of life and doesn't come back. That happens occasionally with friends and I just dont know why. Well I do. It's like the classic saying that's ever true "you dont know what you have until it's gone." I have a gaping hole that's left in me for a very long while. But I know I have to give it to God and just trust that my friendship with them was for a time and served some good purpose... even though at the moment it seems like it was only meant for hurt to follow. Usually years later, I'm able to reflect and laugh and cry and see just how much they touched me and how me knowing them somehow changed my life in a special way forever... and who knows, I just may have helped them too.
*sigh* I've tried to not adhere to people but it just isn't working. I do anyways. Why? I'm not totally sure. I have accepted the fact that it's just apart of me being who I am. The compassion I posses and the general love I freely give. If I shunned everyone or didn't allow myself to become too close, then how would I be blessed in someway? How would they? I would travel thru life cold, bitter and unhappy.
So I guess this rambling is me telling you that I care for you more deeply than you know. Than you'll probably ever know. And if for some reason life's path severs our friendship, I'm mourning the loss of your hugs, your smile and your specialness in a way that cant be explained.

A Recent Purchase

2009-02-01T17:55:00.007-05:00

I've recently bought a bunch of books. Well not a bunch I guess, but 6. Or 7. I purchased one of them as a duplicate as a gift and another for someone special. I cant WAIT to give these to the people I thought of!!

Ugh! I love thinking of people!

Of the books I bought, it's hard to say which I want to read first or which I'm most excited about. VERY HARD. But I've chose to feature one.

Multiple Blessings:

Surviving to Thriving with Twins and Sextuplets

I cant wait to read this book!! I'm going to scream when I get the package in the mail. The tv show Jon & Kate Plus 8 is my favorite show ever. Apart from the FoodNetwork of course. I love their realness. I love how they care about eachother, pray with eachother, go to church, the craziness of their meals, the madness of rounding up the kids to go somewhere and how they trust the Lord. I love how they show all those things on tv. They aren't perfect and they know it, and it makes the show so refreshing from the normal, everyday fake perfectness that floods millions of television screens every minute. Plus that's my idea of a family :) A lot of kids, relaxed but strong parents and a whole lot of care, love and attention.

Here's what CBD says about the book:

Just three years after giving birth to twin daughters, Kate and Jon Gosselin learned they were pregnant again - with sextuplets. In Multiple Blessings, Kate chronicles the emotional and exhausting journey she and Jon made from the time the babies were conceived through the first two years of their lives. After struggling to carry and deliver all six babies, then coping with months of neonatal intensive care, Jon and Kate thought they'd made it through the hardest part of the journey.
Not even close. Stress-filled days and sleepless nights became their world as she and Jon managed to feed, bathe, clothe, and monitor the health of their fragile infants without losing sight of their love for each other and the twins. This is an honest and uplifting story of faith. It's the story of a young couple who trusted in the ever present hand of a faithful God to provide the strength and courage they needed to face seemingly impossible challenges one day at a time.

It's About Time, HANNAH!!

2009-01-31T13:46:00.005-05:00

Hello readers... whoever you might be.

I'm here to plead. Well maybe not because I dont know what I would be pleading! lol. Well I feel horrible for not posting in (eeeek!!!) over 2 months!

Life's been chock full of adjustments and I have recently hardly had the time to even check my email. I've missed sharing my random thoughts so very much.

SO. I'm here to tell you that I will be back! Back in the blog-posting-action :)
Expect more updates on me and my crazy life very, very soon.

Thank you so much for reading!

The Best Type of Makeover

2008-11-15T11:54:00.001-05:00

"Just a little gift..."

2008-11-11T23:26:00.009-05:00

I found this at our front door the other day:

Not knowing the address I opened it, seeing it was addressed to me:

I found a velvet black box in it with a card also addressed to me:

Opening it, I saw some scrawled words:

It was from my Grandpa Jack. :)

The velvet black box contained a couple costume piece jewelry. A gold looking ring with mock diamonds in it all around and a necklace and a pair of matching earrings! Neither of the pieces are my type of thing, but because what the card said and who they were from made them the most beautiful things my eyes ever beheld. I will wear them in honor of him. Those are the second thing my Grandpa has ever given me. :) Grandpa isn't an affectionate person. When I tell him I love him on the phone, he says "Uh-hu". So to get this made me cry. ♥

You see, my grandfather has Macular Degeneration so he is unable to see very well. He sees worse than he lets on, I believe. I'm not so sure he can even tell what we look like anymore...
That's why his handwriting is so bad. But after much careful study, I realized what the card said:

"Hannah,
Just a little gift
to let you know
I think you are
a fine granddaughter.

Love,
Grandpa Jack"

Unknown Reason for the Results

2008-11-06T09:27:00.005-05:00

November 4th has come and has gone. Some of us Americans are happy with the outcome of the Election, some dont care and some of us are greatly, utterly, sick and disappointed with it. If you read the post before this one, you will realize I'm not in favor of America's majority choice. I hoped and prayed for something different.

I voted for something different.

But I serve a great God and He has always been God and always will be. The President of the United States isn't going to change that. God also has a plan. Nothing goes unnoticed with Him. He knows all things and knew this was going to happen.
"We know that all things work for good to them that love God and are called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28
That's one of my favorite verses... it's a promise verse.

Even though we who voted against this great change and decision dont know why things settled the way they did, God's going to use this somehow. The possible ways He could use this next four years are endless....
I know the Lord is going to use it to have me and my family cling tighter to His hand as we walk together because that's all we've got that holds promise. The promise of Romans 8:28.

I believe we will see the America we know now disintegrate over the next 4 years... I cringe as say this, but possibly 8 years too. But God doesn't forget His children!
If this isn't the outcome you desired and prayed for and voted for, try to keep your chin up. Easier said than done I know, but God gives us strength for the day if we so desire.

God bless you in the coming days as He uses this election to grow us.

A Pre-election Prayer Letter from Dutch Sheets

2008-10-29T10:43:00.004-04:00

Mr. Sheets in a highly thought of person amoung the people of the Church. You may have heard of the books he has written.. (Intercessory Prayer) (Watchman Prayer)
I got this in an email and thought I would post this because it blessed me so much and due to the week we have left until Election Day, a fateful deciding day, this was appropriate.
I know this is lengthy, but please read. Feel free to copy and paste it and get it to people you know.

Our God Reigns,
Hannah

Due to IRS rules, this letter is from me personally and is not from any of the ministries I am associated with. (Also because of IRS rules, I cannot send it to my ministry database and therefore need your help in getting it out.) Do with it as you see fit, but my desire is that you forward it to as many praying friends as possible.

October 20, 2008

Dear Praying Friend,

In 2000, I wrote the 2nd most important letter of my life—a call to prayer for the elections of that year. I’m now writing what may be my most important letter. I knew the importance of those elections in 2000 was beyond any in my life up to that point and that the spiritual warfare surrounding them would be unlike anything any of us had ever seen. That letter was read by millions of people and I believe millions of them responded by praying. I also believe the prayers turned the tide.

You may question whether President Bush was the right choice; obviously, he has made some blunders in his tenure as president. But two of his decisions alone left no doubt he was God’s choice: Roberts and Alito. These two Supreme Court Justices have proven critical in the process of breaking the hold of humanism, death and anti-God agendas that have ruled the Court for 50 years. I assure you that more devastation—the shedding of innocent blood, immorality, decay of the family and an erosion of our godly heritage—has flowed into our nation through that institution than any other door in America. The poison allowed into America through their decisions is beyond any of our abilities to articulate.

The reality in America is that you don’t need to control Congress or the White Hose to rule the nation. You only need 5 people – 5 out of 9 on the Supreme Court. And for decades those who disagree with just about everything you and I stand for have been in control!

In Bush’s two terms, the process of turning this around began with the appointments of Roberts and Alito. Now, we win some cases 5-4 and lose some 4-5. (We barely outlawed partial birth abortion. The vote of one judge saved thousands of babies from this horror.) We need one more conservative Justice for a consistent majority, then more to build a strong major majority.

In Obama’s own words, "the next president will appoint at least one, perhaps two or more Supreme Court Justices." He’s right. Almost certainly two or more older, liberal Justices are waiting until after the elections to retire, in hopes of Obama winning and appointing more liberals to replace them. And he certainly would. He voted against the confirmation of Roberts and Alito. So did Biden. And Biden led the fight against Justice Thomas several years back, another of the 4 solid conservatives. Make no mistake about it, the two of them do have a litmus test for Supreme Court Justices, and a major part of that test is Roe vs. Wade. McCain and Palin, on the other hand, both have very strong pro-life positions. This alone makes the choice for President simple. To vote for the 2nd and 3rd most liberal senators (Obama and Biden), both of whom are firmly and blatantly pro- abortion, would be unconscionable. Obama has actually said that if he wins, he would like his first action as president to be the signing of the Freedom of Choice Act, which would eliminate every other law against any aspect of abortion (partial birth abortion, parental notification, etc., etc.). And with a democratic majority in the House and Senate, pretty much any legislation he and Biden want to pass will be a slam-dunk. There are many other unrighteous positions they hold but this position alone makes the choice easy. If they win this election, it will set America back decades in the cause of life and the restoration we seek.

Just as many of you do, I too, want to see a first black President, but not Senator Obama. To allow that noble and godly desire, the economy or one’s position on the war to trump this issue of life and death for the innocent unborn is simply wrong. The scriptures teach that if we choose first to exalt righteousness and turn from evil, God promises to heal our land (see Proverbs 14:34; 2 Chronicles 7:14). It is righteousness that exalts a nation, not wealth, prosperity or armies. If we will finish the process of removing the curses of death and anti-God laws off of America by electing a president that will continue to shift the Court, God will grace us with breakthrough in other areas such as the economy, the war against terrorism, etc. My faith is not in a person, and certainly not a political party, for the healing of America, but I know God’s word and His ways well enough to know that our decisions do move Him to action or inaction.

Now to the heart of my reason for writing this letter (I realize I am "preaching to the choir"—most of you who know or listen to me are conservative enough to vote for McCain and Palin. I have not written any appeals for prayer concerning this election because:

1. Others have, and

2. I believe our movement has matured to the point that the prayer base of the Church is already praying.

But I now feel the need to raise my voice. I am appealing to you to pray for these elections the next two weeks like you’ve never prayed for any in the past. Faithfully. Passionately. Boldly. Ask God for His mercy and grace. We deserve His judgment for removing His influence and authority from our government, schools, homes and businesses; for the killing of 50 million babies; for leading the world in the consumption and exporting of pornography; for passing laws to reject His; etc. But mercy triumphs over judgment and in His wrath He remembers mercy. In 2000 we actually lost the popular vote and won the election—talk about grace! Please pray for this grace to be released again.

But I am also asking you for something more than normal prayer. For those of you who understand spiritual warfare, I am asking you to also include this aspect of prayer. There is no doubt that we have entered a Daniel 10 moment in time: "Then he said to me, ‘Do not be afraid, Daniel, for from the first day that you set your heart on understanding this and on humbling yourself before your God, your words were heard, I have come in response to your words. But the prince of the kingdom of Persia was withstanding me for twenty-one days; then behold, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, for I had been left there with the kings of Persia’" (Daniel 10: 12-13 NAS). The spiritual warfare in this election is incredibly fierce, and just as it was in Daniel’s day, is all about the restoration of a nation. And also like Daniel, we must keep praying until we win the battle in the heavens.

In August of this year I predicted that September would mark a shift in momentum for these elections. This happened with the appointment of Sarah Palin as the Vice Presidential nominee (who is a true Esther in our generation), but when the economy began its meltdown and the media ramped up their unprecedented attacks on Palin, that momentum wasn’t sustained. But we can see it turn again if we approach this battle as the spiritual warfare it truly is and bind the evil forces involved (see Matthew 16:18-19). The reality is that this election can be the breakthrough we need to fully shift the Court (and ultimately our nation) or it will be an immeasurable setback that could take many years to reverse—if ever.

Please understand what I am saying: if we engage in this battle and do what I am asking—in mass—we will win; if we do not, we will lose. I, for one, don’t intend to allow the latter. I am in Washington, D.C. now (October 20-22) with Lou Engle and a team of prayer leaders from around the nation

to war for this election. Join us! Lose some sleep, miss some meals—pray! Pray like never before for these elections. And as you do, involve yourself not only in petitioning prayer but also in spiritual warfare. Use your God-given authority over the plans and strategies of satan’s kingdom. Bind all witchcraft that is working to control the outcome, including occultic powers that are suppressing truth. Release Christ’s Kingdom rule in every way the Holy Spirit leads you.

Don’t be deceived and don’t lose hope (if you have to, turn off the TV.) It is not too late to turn these elections. God is plenty powerful enough to do so. The real question is will we rise to the level of prayer and spiritual warfare necessary to release that power. And remember, we don’t need a majority of Christians who are willing and able to do this—only a praying remnant. We can do it!

Here are some practical suggestions to consider:

1. Fast (a meal a day; a day a week; a Daniel fast; 3 days; 10 days; TV; etc.) and spend the time praying.

2. 2) Agree in prayer with someone everyday for God’s will to be done.

3. 3) Form/participate in prayer groups regularly. Churches could pray everyday.

4. 4) Take time in every gathering to pray. (Take 15 minutes in every service to pray for the elections. Turn an entire service to harp and bowl style intercession—worship and prayer combined.)

5. 5) Join 2 or more on a conference call and pray for 15, 20, or 30 minutes.

6. 6) Pray on the way to work (and on the way home).

7. 7) Pray before you go to sleep.

8. 8) Pray before church services.

9. 9) Ask God to give you His strategy—He will!

In His grip,

Dutch Sheets

Busyness

2008-10-21T20:45:00.003-04:00

Due to busyness, I haven't been able to post... and greatly to my disapointment!

I was able to post just now a couple new entries on my food blog.
Take a peek if you want!

I hope to be back soon!!

Something Special From YouTube

2008-10-08T17:03:00.002-04:00

This is one of the neatest videos I've seen. What an incredible idea.
Take the 5 minutes and watch this!

One Day To Give

2008-09-27T20:00:00.003-04:00

Hey guys, saw this one someone's blog that I frequent. It's that lovely little green icon to the right with the yellow flower. Click on it to see the full story.

I loved the idea.

But as Christians we should be doing this constantly--- constantly giving of ourselves in the Lord's name for His glory.... and only for His glory.

But I thought this was neat that she should set aside a day to go out of our way to do something giving, thoughtful and kind.

Be blessed~

I Have A Job!

2008-09-26T20:24:00.004-04:00

YAY! I'm excited!
After a few application submissions to different places, I am now at a wonderful place. The people at Stonewall Kitchen here in my town were the ones to say "yes" to me. I was elated.
I work in their Cafe portion. I LOVE IT. Today was actually just my second day, but day one I knew I loved it. For me personally, the people make or break the job. If I was doing something extremely boring, I would be fine with it if the people were friendly and kind and fun to be around. WELL. I got 10 of those!!!! Everyone who works in the Cafe is AMAZING. I seriously like these people. They are so patient with me too since I am new. That makes me feel not so much like the odd duck out.
So come someday and I'll serve you a Machiatto and a lovely blue cheese, pecan salad. :)
From different things I've heard from people, it's hard to find something you love as a source of employment, well I certainly lucked out. I look forward to every day I work--- I cant WAIT to go to work. I'm up super early and prepared just waiting in my blue hat, white collared shirt, tan pants and neat, black apron. :) I may be pathetic, but I enjoy it greatly and praise God for this wonderful provision. We prayed over each application submission that the door would either be closed or open. I was interviewed this past Monday and was asked to work the very next morning! It's so God and I'm very very pleased... not only for knowing that this is where I am to be now, but it's a joy to boot. :)

God is so good.

Today... Is A Beautiful Day

2008-09-20T08:37:00.003-04:00

Today is very special to me.

Today is the day God chose to give me one of my friends. Not just any friend-- a truly amazing friend. I really cant explain who she is to me because first of all, it defies everything in our minds--- everything the makes sense. Because God moves and acts in ways our minds cant fully comprehend. Once we grasp that, it makes us realize how finite we are and how infinite He is.

This incredible girlfriend of mine and I share a very unique tie.

We're like the little kids on a playground who find someone their size and then holds hands the rest of the day--- there are no hindrances to their instant friendship. It's like they've known each other their whole lives.

We're like those silly girls you see roaming around the mall. Giggling and smiling like they have no cares in the world.

We're like confidantes to each other- telling our secrets without coming out and saying that that's exactly what they are. We just know we will be respectful enough to not share it with the world even if we weren't instructed to not do so.

We're like sisters. We love each other with a bond deep enough to entwine our lives forever. We care and hold each other up regardless of the circumstances. We come to each other with prayers-- we've cried together. And because we both share the same Father, we'll know each other forever. The joy that that brings to my heart is unexplainable.

Here's to another year, dear. Thanks for being my friend.

Today's Kitchen Adventure

2008-09-19T20:34:00.005-04:00

Ok so today mom had me clean a thawed turkey, season it and put it in the oven while she was gone for the afternoon. No biggie right? Right.

WELL. I talked to mom about 2 hours into the cooking and asked what temperature the bird should be at when I stick the thermometer in it when it was cooked. She said 160. I thought that sounded a bit low, but hey, she's been doing this a lot longer than I have. I hung up and checked what the thermometer said and it read 'Poultry---190'.

"Well that's a bit different than what mom said!" Confused I checked the old fashioned thermo we had and it said 195. Buffudled I went to this new fangled oven thermometer that mom got dad for Christmas. It said 180 for poultry. Oookkkkaaaayyyy....... to the computer I went- "let's see what the up-to-date world thinks and does their poultry." Old trusty Google said several places (6) that it was to get to 165. I took it out at 165. We cut into it and dad was convinced that it was done. Good, I thought! I conquored the confusing battle!! But then when he went to carve it, he was disturbed at how it looked. So with ALLLLL the other side-dishes ready and table set, back in the oven the turkey went. :-P

It didn't come out so great.

I had four different temperatures from several sources. Oh brother. And a few degrees in the touchy world of poultry really does make a whole difference!

Not to confuse me or anything...

I Was Tagged!

2008-09-14T12:19:00.003-04:00

My lovely friend of the blog 'The Inept Aspirant' tagged me! That was a surprise to me when I went to her blog for my daily visit. Apparently, it's called a 'meme'.
"Huh?" I know. It's pronounced "meem". It's translated as an idea that is transmitted verbally or by repeated action from one mind to another.

So there are rules and here they are:

1.) Write 5 specific things what blogging has done to you-- either nice or not so nice.

2.) Link back to the person who tagged you.

3.) Link to the parent host

4.) Tag some blogging buds

5.) Post these rules!

Seems easy enough... :) Here I go!

Mrs. G tagged me. And here is where this was started here!

1- Blogging has been a fun way to get things off my mind. As my mother once asked me "Isn't that what the old fashioned paper journals are for?" Yes and no as I told her. Somehow it's different in a good way.
2- I really like being able to see into other people's lives (I'm not stalking I promise!) and how they live and how they think. As I have discovered, God sure did create may different kinds of minds--- making for a colorful world!
3- With my #2 reason in mind, I can see how He has also blessed people with talents (like her and her and her! Plus general family life: This lady, This lady, This lady and This lady!)and such that I can gain from! I love learning, and what's better than from someone who has tried it first-hand instead of a stuffy old text book?
4- [rolling eyes] It's just something else I do on the computer-- I try to keep Internet activity to a minimum nowadays for family reasons, hence my posts arent that frequent. So along with email and facebook, it's another thing to add to the list that "calls" me online even when I am trying to not do very much.
5- I cant think of another one! It's encouraging, I guess I could say! To see that people may be going thru something I am, or thinking about something that has also been troubling my mind. It's something that screams "You're not the only one in this situation!"

Phew! There- now its my turn to tag!

My friend Miranda because I've known her forever and I think she could come up with good ones.

Miss Bethany because I love reading her blog and she's so sweet!

Miss Kate- she's an amazing women and I love her lots.

And last but not least, Miss Kim, fondly called Kimmer. :) She's incredibly thoughtful-

A Recent Read

2008-09-11T16:55:00.006-04:00

I recently finished 'The Five People You Meet in Heaven' by Mitch Albom. I enjoyed it greatly. It was a sad but... fulfilling book. Reminder of the bitterness of a long life filled with unanswered questions and hatred. Sadly this man wasn't able to reconcile with some of the people he had a grudge with until the end--- or beyond.

This story shows the honorable passing of a lonely man and who he meets in heaven. The people he sits with and encounters have somehow greatly influenced the course of his life. And how his existence somehow influenced their fate. He, and sometimes them too, never knowing it at the time.

After the book was finished it showed me how lives are constantly being intertwined whether we like it or not, or know it. Somehow everything I have said and done influences someone else. I am not the only one blessed,

or harmed, by the things I do. It's not all about me.

Last Week's Lovely Surprise!

2008-09-05T12:24:00.005-04:00

I know this is a late post but my week has been so crazy that I haven't been able to submit this.

Last Wednesday I got a call from my dear friend Kate and she asked with Miranda and I were going to be able to meet her for lunch about an hour away from us on Friday. I made some calls, asked mom and dad and POOF! we were able to!

I was very excited. She said she had a friend who hadn't seen the area and thought while showing her this amazing spot on the coast, we could meet her there for lunch also. Sounded great to me!

When we finally made it, no thanks to MapQuest, I see Miss Kate sitting patiently waiting. We got out of the car, exchanged hugs and were chatting while we walked to our table. There, cowering behind purses was my fantastic girl friend JEN!!! I have missed her so much since I first met her in person back @ Passion::Boston in October. HERE SHE WAS!

They said that my face was priceless... I've no idea, seeing that I cant see my face, but I sure saw her and I couldn't run fast enough to her or hug hard enough. It really did feel amazing to hug her again...
She's from Minnesota, mind you, so it's not like she makes it to Maine very often. So when you get two incredible ladies like Miss Kate and Lady Jen in one spot together, you get an UNFORGETTABLE lunch. :)

Miss Kate, Lady Jen, Me, Miranda!

I sure have amazing girl friends... thank you Lord for ALL of them.

Holy Endorphins

2008-08-28T20:18:00.005-04:00

Ha! Right? "What's up with the title Hannah?"

Well, I believe I dubbed this post appropriately.

Today I had the wonderful opportunity to bless life-long friends by going to their home and cleaning. They aren't able to do some stuff physically and then combined with a busy schedule, it's hard to keep up. We love them to DEATH so it's our joy to be able to serve them in this way.

As I was cleaning I just kept in mind how much I loved them and why they are so special to me... and how very much this blesses them. I am a giver. My Gift is giving. If serving is a way in which I am able to give something to someone then you'll see me at the front of the line. But while I was cleaning and thinking of them some words of Jesus came to mind, John 15: 13 "Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." That kept resinating in my head. For some reason, up until this point I thought that Jesus meant it litterally--- that I should be in the greatest love possible if I physically had the chance to give my life and die for my friend(s). Well I wasn't quite sure how that was going to happen, but to be honest I really would do it. So I was somewhat bummed that I couldn't gaurantee that experience. SO> today it struck me differently. Giving of my life could also mean giving of my time. Time is exactly what life is... it's a never-pausing clock. A song I hear on the radio says it this way "Life is an hourglass glued to the table." Therefore, it's a precious thing to give a portion of that time, that slotted amount of life you will never get back, to someone in serving.

When you run or do some strenuous activity, you're generally worked up, sweating, tired but feeling good!! As I'm sure you all remember from your middle or high school biology class that the "feeling good" part after the workout comes from endorphins. The positive effect gives you a clear, upbeat mind and more energy.

On the ride home I was reminded out-of-the-blue of ''Greater love has no one than this, that he lays down his life for his friends." Well after an all day serving venture of cleaning for these beloved people, I left feeling a bit tired, but SO good. I had a light spirit and there was a bounce to my step! This did not come from pride, mind you... I think I can safely say that. But I felt Christ's words coming to life in my heart!

The Lord blessed me with ability to taste a small portion of that love, that joy He talks about in John 15:13.

I experienced Holy Endorphins. :-)

Belated Birthday Befuddlement!!

2008-08-21T19:32:00.006-04:00

Ok. So I went into my beloved Vera Bradley

bag yesterday to get this sack of Sugar Free Life Savers that I had found in my bag a few weeks before. I noticed this bag of Life Savers in there like I said a while ago, but didn't really pick it up or give it a second thought... to be honest, my bag is pretty much everyone in my family's bag! If they dont want to hold something, I find it in there. :-P So I thought mom had purchased or got this bag of Life Savers somewhere and just tossed it in there. I forgot to mention it to her or anyone. So subconsciously I knew it was there---

But before art class yesterday I said to myself "Hey, let me go get those Life Savers and share them with the class while we paint!"

I picked it up and saw a mint fall out, but didn't pay any attention. I noticed in feeling the bag that there was something big and hard in it! That intrigued me so I ripped the bag from the top and then all the mints fell thru the bottom leaving it empty--- but not completely. :) I saw the corner of a black plastic thing! I pulled it out to see it was a $25 iTunes gift card that said "Happy Birthday" on it!!!!!!!

I. WAS. SHOCKED. When I thought about the falling mints I looked and saw that someone had slightly opened the bottom to shove the gift card in the bag...

I was in a tizzy allll yesterday and still today even! It's going to bug me... I am not good with surprises. I really am not! I'll try everything possible to find something out if I know for a fact that some one's keeping something from me! lol. Isn't that horrible? lol. It's a downfall of mine. But still, I'm not easily surprised... SO I seriously need to know who did this. If it's you, come clean right now. lol. I want to pay gratitude where gratitude is due-- I feel like I have unfinished business. I want to tell this person 'thank you' very sincerely because I appreciate it so very much.

Russian Nesting Dolls

2008-08-20T19:47:00.010-04:00

Today I was apart of a an art class... but not just any art class, mind you. I was able, along with other students, try my hand for the first time at painting Russian Nesting Dolls! Of course you ALLLLLLL know what these are.. even if you are unsure of the name. Here's a picture, but they are not mine:

They are so cute, and I've always admired them as something very culturally unique-- truly beautiful pieces. WELL-- I was elated to find out from my friend that this is what we were to do today!

No, I'm not showing you mine. I'm sorry, but it's not completely finished. I want it varnished and everything--- the whole nine yards.

Here are some pictures from today:

Alex working on her doll-

Schuyler concentrated on his-

Me hunched greatly over mine...

Marina (our fabulous teacher) on the left with Polina, a sweet gal from Russia painting her large doll-

Today was SO much fun. We were on Four Tree Island under a pavilion-- it was a stunning day. Absolutely beautiful. We could have done away with a bit of the wind, but it's an island on the ocean, what can you expect? I brought a sweatshirt ;)

So my final masterpiece will present itself on here shortly.

...to be continued.

This Makes No Sense

2008-08-19T14:50:00.003-04:00

I loathe running...

...well at least I thought I did!

I can maybe understand now when someone says they are on a "running high" or "active high". Johnny and I have been doing some xcountry style running thru the woods and I actually *cough* may... um... be liking it?? Shh! I didn't say that!

It's not that long of a trail and I feel bad for Johnny because we are going somewhat slow-- for his usual pace anyways---

Just my luck though to start liking something and then winter is going to set in. O well. Maybe by the time of the first snow, I will be devoted enough to get my body out of bed in the morning and run on the perfectly good treadmill we have downstairs. :-P

"Why Does the Moon Turn Orange Sometimes when it Rises?"

2008-08-18T10:16:00.006-04:00

When I say that it reminds me of the movie "The Kid." Ever seen that? If not, it's a must. It's Bruce Willis at his BEST. I believe it's rated 'G' and by Disney. It's very near the top on my favorite flick list.

Last night however we were at the beach and saw the moon rise into the sky for the evening.. it was red and then got lighter as it ascended higher in the dark night sky.

I remember roughly how that happens from watching "The Kid" (who says you cant learn stuff from watching a movie??) but wanted to brush up on my facts. ;)
So I looked it up!
Here's what I found!

The Orange Moon

Have you ever wondered why the moon is more orange or yellow in color when it first rises at night? This effect is caused by the atmosphere of the earth. The reason for the orange color is due to the scattering of light by the atmosphere. When the moon is near the horizon, the moonlight must pass through much more atmosphere than when the moon is directly overhead. By the time the moonlight reaches your eyes, the blue, green, and purple pieces of visible light have been scattered away by air molecules. That's why you only see yellow, orange, or red.
The moon can have an orange color at any time of the year. Sometimes the moon appears orange even when it's directly overhead. This occurs when there's a lot of dust, smoke, or pollution in the atmosphere. The size of those particles will determine the type of color you will see.

Look first at the white moon directly overhead. See the red part of the arrow pointing to the white moon? This red part of the arrow shows the part of the atmosphere we are looking through to see the moon. Now look at the orange moon just rising in the east. Look at the blue portion of the arrow pointing to the orange moon. See how much longer the blue line is than the red line. This shows that we are looking through about three times as much atmosphere at a rising or setting moon.

...Just in case you were wondering...

Saturday @ the Farmer's Market

2008-08-16T12:29:00.001-04:00

Today was SO fun at the Farmer's Market! It's called Gateway Farmer's Market-- It's right here in York. I love it because there are so many local businesses/farms and you get a real sense of community.

This is what I bought:

This Apricot-Peach tea from Portsmouth Tea Co. which I am currently sipping ice cold now! It's aaammaaaaazzzzinnnngggggg. I wish you could smell the sweetness of the peach and the robust apricot.

I also got one of my recent must-have-stand bys:

Hubba Hubba Foods 'Chow Bambino'

I've recently run into many recipes that need Italian bread crumbs and I've got plain on the shelf. SO. My brilliant mind remembered our large stash of Hubba Hubba products! It's been fantastic. Dad love their rub for steaks called 'Java Jerk'. He loves it so much that the owners dubbed him 'Java Steve'. lol.

Stevie of course had to get his favorite, well known cinnamon rolls from Borealis Breads from here in Wells, Maine:

Does look good huh?

Mom got some b-e-a-u-tiful flowers from a farm here locally. They just BEAM. I've never seen a flower like this!!!

The picture doesn't do it justice.

Then the last thing we bought was a loaf of bread from When Pigs Fly Bread Co. here in York.
It was GOOD. It was cranberry, brown sugar, pistachio, orange bread. In the words of Rachel Ray "YUM-O". :)

This Saturday has been pretty great!

Depressed. But We Did See a Purple Mushroom

2008-08-14T15:07:00.001-04:00

So after a couple months of having my friend's amazing camera, we went outside to take some graduation pictures (which is why we borrowed it). But today's pictures came out HORRIBLE. Actually there isn't a word low enough to describe these.... much less how I feel at the moment. Depressed is an understatement.
When we actually have time to take pictures, it's overcast--- while hiking thru the woods it started to rain! That means mosquitoes are gonna come out and out they did. My legs and arms and face and neck and and and! are covered with itchy bites. Plus Johnny HAD to go to this certain spot and didn't tell me how far it was. So hiking is pretty much what we did and that irritated me greatly. Why? Because I had spent 15 minutes using a flat iron on my hair and then sweating like that defeated it completely.

The only thing remotely close to good that came out of today's time was we saw a cool mushroom. I've never seen a purple mushroom before today!

*sigh*
Today's been horrible. Despite the fact of my earlier attempts of trying to make it great---with the listing 3 great things.
I'm looking forward to Verlin's visit tonight-- that's at least something I can count on.

Today's 3 Things

2008-08-14T10:16:00.001-04:00

I get these little magazines from the National Guard called 'Hooah' about every two months... interesting name huh? Still not sure exactly how to pronounce it. lol.
I've been getting hammered with stuff from The Guard over the last year... oh the joys of growing up. ;)

This magazine has some enjoyable articles in it! I really do like it. Last night I read one that said something about making your summer great--- one portion was on finding three things in a day that make it special. Chances are you wont have those three things together in a day again, because most of the time, that 24 hours is pretty unique. For me anyways.
Well I thought that I would list 3 things... however my day pretty much just started, so I'm not sure what good I can get from it--- Maybe I'll count on stuff that I know is planned and then it gives me something to look forward to. I'm that kind of person... it helps my attitude greatly if I have something to look forward to. Is that a good thing? Is that a bad thing? I'm not sure.

So todays 3 great tidbits are:

1.) Waking up this morning

2.) Having time to read

3.) Having a friend over for dinner!

Doesnt sound too bad to me! I think I'll start doing this.. though maybe at the end of the day as a reflection.

Happy Birthday!

2008-08-12T13:43:00.001-04:00

Happy Birthday, Dad!

I like this picture.

The amazing thing with dad is that he stays the same age as each birthday rolls around! Man, I hope that happens to me when I want it to. :-P

He's celebrating his 29th birthday for his 23rd time. :)

I love ya dad!

So it begins

2008-08-12T13:36:00.002-04:00

Are you ready to see into the mind of Hannah? Becareful, it could be a scary journey. ;)

This is somewhere where I will place and post things that are completely random-- things that pop into my mind. I will post things I find hilarious, roll-on-the-ground funny or just plain ol' goofy!

Buckle your seat belts, it's going to be interesting! lol.