Laughtershock

TLC

2012-01-27T07:00:00.000-08:00

Tender...

Writing for 5 minutes flat – no editing, no over thinking, no backtracking. Writing with other amazing women on Lisa-Jo's The Gypsy Mama

go...

Exquisite and in quiet tender, these hearts we doth hold
Supple and easily bruised they never grown old

To protect and to guard delivered in trust
Hearts commissioned to us, delicacy is a must

Its rhythmic beat not only sustains life
But it's capacity to love is undenied

I've learned much this last year about the T in TLC
Dear Lord help me never forget that tenderness is key!
Robin

Stop

World of color

2012-01-26T07:00:00.000-08:00

1,000 Word Thursday

Purusing through my summer vacation pics and these brought a smile to my face =)

You is kind. You is smart. You is important

2012-01-25T06:26:00.000-08:00

Wednesday's Word

"You are forgiven"

"I love you"

"I DO!"

"It's a girl"

"It's a boy"

"I'm sorry you lost your baby"

The above words are just some of the most potent words that have reverberated in my lifetime.

- I did not grow in a family of generous words.

- I walked into adulthood with a bankrupt Word Bank.
- The realization of the power of words tilts my universe a little. Just one can topple a grown man.
- Of recent, a few more words were caught in my net

'You is smart. You is kind. You is important.'

The above scene clip is one of the most powerful moments for me in the movie.
WHY?

The power of words.

I've not read the book 'THE HELP' (based on the novel by author Kathryn Stockett) but did watch the movie over the Christmas break. The story, as most know, is set in Jackson Mississippi during the 1960s segregation era.
The story focuses on three distinct women – two Black, one white – and their intertwining lives around the ideas of race, class, gender and power.

A simple, poor and trodden down woman, giving the best gift she has...her kind life giving words.

(That's what stuck to me like a post-it!)

Continuously propelling us through life. The life they can birth in a beautiful ripple effect AND the life they can extinguish in a single syllable.

"Sticks and stones can break my bones, but words will never hurt me."

I remember saying those words when young to try and convince myself of its truth in the face of painful words thrown my way.
Unfortunately, it is far from true. They not only wound but without due diligence and prayer, can play over and over in the battlefield of our mind, sucking the joy right out of our very existence... like He never intended.

We can't always count on our loved ones or others to speak life into our day to day. So then what?

When we are dry and thirsty where do we go?

God’s desire is this – that we may come to Him and drink as the fountain of living waters!

Go to the source of life! Go to Him and drink. Allow Him to fill you to overflowing. When we drink of Him, – there are rivers of water flowing in us and spilling out on those around

I can remember vividly the last kind words spoken to me...can't you?

The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.

With their mouths the godless destroy their neighbors, but through knowledge the righteous escape.

One of my favorite characters in the story Celia Foote.

To be a little more Celia and a little less Hilly Holbrook!

Now that we are full let us spill out words of life onto others and fill their word bank!

Your high calling

2012-01-24T07:00:00.000-08:00

Tuesday's quotes

photo via pintrest

Oregon saturated

2012-01-23T07:00:00.000-08:00

photos courtesy of Tim Corban

The horizon hung low and heavy laden. The waters surged toward this place we call home. Gray on every horizon with leaden skies that were unforgiving... and the rain came.

Some lost their lives, others homes. Out of tragedy ushers even greater gratitude for life, safety and wellness!

Lord be with those families who are walking through loss. Bolster them up. May your blessing be on this little state of Oregon.

Pursuing gratitude...

#268-280

Safety
Ability to get to school and work
Witnessing acts of humanity and generosity
The power of prayer to mend and heal
Prayer vigil for a family's loss in the dark waters
Continuing to open doors for Rebecca in areas of ministry and leading worship
A marriage that though bumpy, is bound by a cord that can't be broken
A hope for things unseen....(including the sun=)
A sons heart to serve and love
Random texts from from friends
My other family, our little hospital
Ability to hold hands with families as they make difficult life altering decisions regarding loved ones.
A week of prayer and fasting and journals kept.

Vigorous freshness

2012-01-20T06:54:00.000-08:00

On Friday's I like to jump in from time to time and join the fun at Lisa-Jo's place with some fast, furious and flirty writing. My favorite thing is that we only get 5 minutes and I like run with my first impressions.

1. Write for 5 minutes flat – no editing, no over thinking, no backtracking.
2. Link back here and invite others to join in.
3. Most important: comment and encourage the person who linked up before you.
OK, are you ready? Give me your best five minutes on:

Vivid…

{go}

According to Merriam-Webster definition:

1: of a color: very strong : very high in chroma

2: having the appearance of vigorous life or freshness : LIVELY

3: producing a strong or clear impression on the sense:

sharp, intense; specifically: producing distinct mental images

4: acting clearly and vigorously

My favorite is VIGOROUS LIFE OR FRESHNESS! That deserves a YIPEE!

If you’re quiet you’re not living. You’ve got to be noisy and colorful and lively.

—Mel Brooks—

Not necessarily found in the book of Acts but I L O V E this quote and it brings me back to our word 'VIVID'.
As Christian women we have so much HOPE, FAITH, TRUST, COMFORT and LOVE to draw from our Heavenly Father that we more than any others, have the capacity to color a vivid life, even coloring outside of the lines.
To me living noisy and colorful and lively is a life filled with laughter, joy, fullness, gratitude and yes even tears, all to His Glory!

One of the fruits of the spirit is joy. He tells us that whoever believes in Him will have rivers of living water that flow from within, and that His joy is our strength. It's all there for the taking.

Today's word finds me wanting to live a life...ablaze, aglow beaming, blazing, brilliant, burning, colorful, dazzling, gleaming, glistening, glittering, glossy, illuminated, intense, luminous, lustrous, radiant, shiny, silvery, sparkling, sunlit, sunny, twinkling and

VIGOROUSLY FRESHLY VIVID!

picture via Pintrest

{stop}

A girl and her grandma

2012-01-19T07:00:00.000-08:00

1,000 Word Thursday

Necklace from grandma

Welcome to Holland @aaronshust

2012-01-18T07:00:00.000-08:00

Wednesday's Word

– raising a child with a disability –

When you're going to have a baby, it's like planning a fabulous vacation trip – to Italy. You buy a bunch of guidebooks and make your wonderful plans. The Coliseum, the Michelangelo David, the gondolas in Venice. You may learn some handy phrases in Italian. It's all very exciting.

After months of eager anticipation, the day finally arrives.
You pack your bags and off you go. Several hours later, the plane lands. The stewardess comes in and says, "Welcome to Holland."

"Holland?!" you say. "What do you mean, Holland?" I signed up for Italy! I'm supposed to be in Italy. All my life I've dreamed of going to Italy.

But there's been a change in the flight plan. They've landed in Holland and there you must stay.

The important thing is that they haven't taken you to some horrible, disgusting, filthy place, full of pestilence, famine and disease. It's just a different place.

So you must go out and buy a new guidebook. And you must learn a whole new language.

And you will meet a whole new group of people you would never have met.

It's just a different place. It's slower paced than Italy, less flashy than Italy. But after you've been there for a while and you catch your breath, you look around, and you begin to notice that Holland has windmills, Holland has tulips, Holland even has Rembrandts.

But everyone you know is busy coming and going from Italy, and they're all bragging about what a wonderful time they had there. And for the rest of your life you will say, "Yes, that's where I was supposed to go. That's what I had planned."

The pain of that will never, ever, go away, because the loss of that dream is a very significant loss.

But if you spend your life mourning the fact that you didn't get to Italy, you may never be free to enjoy the very special, the very lovely things about Holland.

Written by Emily Perl Kingsley

Kiss from Heaven

A tweet from a friend:
PRAYING!! RT @aaronshust: Michael Aaron, Our Special Angel. tinyurl.com/MichaelAaronSh… ...and the story we find ourselves in.

Led me to Aaron Shust tweet:

aaronshustAaron Shust

Michael Aaron, Our Special Angel. http://tinyurl.com/MichaelAaronShust...and the story we find ourselves in.

Which led me to his blog and his story. I cried...then I prayed.

I've never had a special needs child, but from the heart of a mother my soul is pricked.

I saw the above poem 'Welcome to Holland' as a response to his story.

I requested he allow me to share his story, his words for all were "If it gives God the glory, please do"

All I can say is

He GIVES BEAUTY FOR ASHES AND STRENGTH FOR FEAR

Pop over to Shustlog and read his story.

Courage in the broken places

2012-01-17T07:00:00.000-08:00

Tuesday's quotes

"Perhaps strength doesn’t reside in having never been broken but in the courage required to grow strong in the broken places".

Lucy, Carol and Bob

2012-01-16T07:00:00.000-08:00

Some days, you have a decision to make... either plow through or go back to bed...

and SOME days that decision gets tested.

I keep waiting for life to lighten. It's been a rough 365+ days. Ready to start out the New Year with a bang!
Proved that theory true with 3 (yes I said 3) separate episodes of stomach flu since the 1st. And what gets me....WHAT REALLY TESTS ME...
is I've only lost 1#. I could stand to lose a third grader off these hips and all I get is 1 lousy pound. With all the knee time I devoted I should have lost 2 third graders!!!!
Seriously???
I find myself asking...
What would three of my favorite people in the world tell me right now...

"Laughter gives us distance. It allows us to step back from an event, deal with it and then move on."

~Bob Newhart~

"One of the things I learned the hard way was that it doesn't pay to get discouraged. Keeping busy and making optimism a way of life can restore ones faith."

~Lucille Ball~

"Comedy is tragedy plus time."

~Carol Burnett~

I drove up to Starbucks not too long ago, put my arm out to the window and begged them to just start a drip right there.

Ahh well it could always be worse right! Having energy is over rated.

With that said, I continue my pursuit with this community of women who have devoted themselves to OPERATION PURPOSEFUL GRATTITUDE!

A list of a Thousand things, beginning with #1. Daily jotting down items on my Thousand Gifts list, working, one-by-one, up to a thousand gifts.

Grab the button and start jotting along with!

#258

Laughter is medicine for the soul

#259

Thankful for a career that stands the test in these uncertain times

#260

That the stomach flu will go away...it's not a cancer diagnosis

#261

Fresh paint on my bedroom walls, so serene.

#262

Listening to the stories of my daughters last perfomance at the Hult Center

#263

Secrets told by a friend

#264

A fresh fall of snow

#265

An adoring son who takes such good care of me

#266

A great man who works hard and loves me equally

#267

My great big Father who watches by day and night!

Dog diary vs cat diary

2012-01-13T07:00:00.000-08:00

Funny Friday

The Dog's Diary

8:00 am - Dog food! My favorite thing!
9:30 am - A car ride! My favorite thing!
9:40 am - A walk in the park! My favorite thing!
10:30 am - Got rubbed and petted! My favorite thing!
12:00 pm - Milk bones! My favorite thing!
1:00 pm - Played in the yard! My favorite thing!
3:00 pm - Wagged my tail! My favorite thing!
5:00 pm - Dinner! My favorite thing!
7:00 pm - Got to play ball! My favorite thing!
8:00 pm - Wow! Watched TV with the people! My favorite thing!
11:00 pm - Sleeping on the bed! My favorite thing!

The Cat's Diary

Day 983 of My Captivity

My captors continue to taunt me with bizarre little dangling objects. They dine lavishly on fresh meat, while the other inmates and I are fed hash or some sort of dry nuggets. Although I make my contempt for the rations perfectly clear, I nevertheless must eat something in order to keep up my strength.

The only thing that keeps me going is my dream of escape. In an attempt to disgust them, I once again vomit on the carpet. Today I decapitated a mouse and dropped its headless body at their feet. I had hoped this would strike fear into their hearts, since it clearly demonstrates my capabilities. However, they merely made condescending comments about what a "good little hunter" I am.
There was some sort of assembly of their accomplices tonight. I was placed in solitary confinement for the duration of the event. However, I could hear the noises and smell the food. I overheard that my confinement was due to the power of "allergies." I must learn what this means, and how to use it to my advantage.
Today I was almost successful in an attempt to assassinate one of my tormentors by weaving around his feet as he was walking. I must try this again tomorrow, but at the top of the stairs.

I am convinced that the other prisoners here are flunkies and snitches. The dog receives special privileges. He is regularly released, and seems to be more than willing to return. He is obviously retarded. The bird must be an informant. I observe him communicate with the guards regularly. I am certain that he reports my every move. My captors have arranged protective custody for him in an elevated cell, so he is safe. For now ...

Homeward bound

2012-01-12T07:00:00.000-08:00

1,000 Word Thursday

It happens in a B L I N K

2012-01-11T07:00:00.000-08:00

Wednesday's Word

"Teach me to number my days".

That's one of my favorite lines from Revives single, Blink. So poignant and so true these words!

I was driving home today from running a few errands, the sun was out and there was a crisp winters chill in the air. Summer is by far my favorite season, however not much beats a clear, cold, crisp and sunny winters day.

Blink is one of my favorite songs right now but not until today did the words paint on a fresh canvas for me.

With the loss of three dear people I loved this last year (gone in a blink), children that have grown up way too fast (try to hold on tight), new fine lines mapping my face (happened in a flash) and a high school graduation just beyond the bend (it happened in the time it took to look back)

I continue to find myself quite reminiscent.

What am I going to do with the time I've been given?

Oh Lord help me to slow. Help me to not let one drop of this life not breathe and pulse to give you Glory!

Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.

Psalm 90:12

When you can't sleep

2012-01-10T07:00:00.000-08:00

Tuesday's Quotes

Source: tranzformingproducts.com via Robin on Pinterest

To be thought a fool

2012-01-09T07:00:00.000-08:00

I just read the below story the other day and most definitely felt the Holy Spirits stir on my heart...

Late one summer evening in Broken Bow, Nebraska, a weary truck driver pulled his rig into an all-night truck stop. He was tired and hungry. The waitress had just served him when three tough looking, leather jacketed motorcyclist - of the Hell's Angels type - decided to give him a hard time. Not only did they verbally abuse him, one grabbed the hamburger off his plate, another took a handful of his french fries, and the third picked up his coffee and began to drink it.

How did this trucker respond? How would you respond?

Well, this trucker did not respond as one might expect. Instead, he calmly rose, picked up his check, walked to the front of the room, put the check and his money on the cash register, and went out the door. The waitress followed him to put the money in the till and stood watching out the door as the big truck drove away into the night.
When she returned, one of the cyclists said to her, "Well, he's not much of a man, is he?"
She replied, "I don't know about that, but he sure isn't much of a truck driver. He just ran over three motorcycles on his way out of the parking lot."

Source: Uploaded by user via Robin on Pinterest

Do you love hearing stories like that? Stories of revenge and retaliation?

I sure do and hope I'm not alone. I laughed right out loud.
I've mellowed over the years but my personality is one of a survivor. I'm not afraid of conflict and I almost ALWAYS err on the side of confrontation. It's a character trait that has come in handy AND AT THE SAME EXACT TIME I like the least!

Don't get me wrong, I do have compassion and empathy. Without those guys I couldn't be an effective nurse, mom, wife or friend. However I would love to befriend the fruit of self control a little more oft.

I delight in my God's kind ways and how He gently woos us to Him. I love that He is always doing a work in us as we allow.

I also adore how He loves to show off for us.

If we wait, are patient and leave room for Him, He will shower us with His Glory and it will rain down on us with healing warm salve.

Forgiving doesn’t mean excusing a wrong or denying that it ever happened. It means we don’t allow ourselves to be consumed with anger towards the one who has done something to us. Instead of cursing the people who have wronged us, we pray for them.

"It is better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to open one's mouth and remove all doubt."

Abraham Lincoln

This weeks multitude

#253 His grace
#254 His mercy
#255 His forgiveness
#256 His patience
#257 His love

I AM WOMAN

2012-01-06T07:00:00.000-08:00

The first Friday of the new year.
Let’s do it. Let’s just write without worrying if it’s just right or not.
For only five short, bold, beautiful minutes. Let your mind and your words and your heart fly free; wild – no editing, no over thinking.
Won’t you join me?

1. Write for 5 minutes flat – don’t edit; don’t second-guess.
2. Link back here and invite others to join in.
3. Must: leave a comment for the person who linked up before you – encouraging them in their writing!
OK, are you ready? Give me your best five minutes on:

Roar…

Alright I'm totally dating my self here. I wish something spiritually slick would have come to mind first but I've promised myself for the season of 5 minute Friday's I would stay true to the rules (i'm generally not a good rule follower:) and stay true to the rules, I will do!

Here it is....

I am woman, hear me roar
In numbers too big to ignore
And I know too much to go back an' pretend
'cause I've heard it all before
And I've been down there on the floor
No one's ever gonna keep me down again

Oh yes I am wise
But it's wisdom born of pain
Yes, I've paid the price
But look how much I gained
If I have to, I can do anything
I am strong (strong)
I am invincible (invincible)
I am woman

Yes that is Helen Reddy's 1970's hit I AM WOMAN. There was a time I would chant those words with pride, I would wear them like a soldier wears his medal proud.

Fast forward 20 something years..eh hem.. and I have a completely different take on what a woman truly is. The world has colorfully painted a picture of what women should look like in today’s world. Magazines are shouting from the rooftops about how we can ‘have it all’.

It's not true, It's smoke and mirrors!

Yes I am strong but I'm not invincible, I'm steady but not a tower, I am wise but it's the Holy Spirits wisdom imparted to me and HE paid the price...not I.

“She speaks with wisdom and faithful instruction is on her tongue.”

STOP.
Surely someone else thought of this song.....?

St. Maarten

2012-01-05T08:00:00.000-08:00

1,000 Word Thursday

View from our room on Belair Beach in St. Martin. It's January and this was a must to pull out. Ahhhhh

Twenty Twelve

2012-01-04T06:43:00.000-08:00

Ahhhhh I can barely bring myself to write out 2012. It sounds so futuristic for some reason.
But here it is.
We started it out with a bang. Some dear friends swept us away to a night of dancing to bring in the new year.
I can't even remember the last time we have done such a thing. It's just not our norm. Small town, children, jobs, parents, middle age... all prevent it.
What an exhilarating, freeing, healing time.
2011 was a year of loss and valley experiences. None of it without hope and strength from the One we call Daddy, but tough nonetheless.
Have you ever just sat and watched a person dance? Especially a child, no inhibitions or worries of being cool.
I've long loved the quote:

“You've gotta dance like there's nobody watching,
Love like you'll never be hurt,
Sing like there's nobody listening,
And live like it's heaven on earth.”
- William W. Purkey -

May Twenty Twelve be a year of dancing, loving, singing and living!!

Procrastination

2012-01-03T07:00:00.000-08:00

Tuesday's Quotes

Source: thinknice.com via Kara on Pinterest

Hello, my name is Robin

2011-12-30T07:00:00.000-08:00

1. Write for 5 minutes flat – no editing, no over thinking, no backtracking.
2. Link back here and invite others to join in.
3. Most important: visit, comment, encourage the person before you.
OK, are you ready? Give me your best five minutes on:

Open…

I love what Lisa-Jo said at her space

"May we dance with abandon before you and be willing to become much more foolish than we’re comfortable with."

That pretty much sums up where our word "OPEN" touches me in this moment.

With that said, asking the Lord to help me become more willing and foolish stirs up anticipation and anxiety if I'm to be perfectly honest. It almost has the flavor of praying for patience and we know where that gets us... more patience =)

Source: etsy.com via Erin on Pinterest

I yearn to flow with life's momentum.
I'm not talking about tearing my clothes off and running naked through the neighborhood kind of abandonment, but more of a...

shedding of old habits, tearing off masks, letting go what others think and beginning to feel the vibrancy of momentum hitting me square in the face and splashing across my soul kind of abandonment.

Well maybe the occasional behaving silly in the supermarket with my family.
At any rate...New Year, 2012 Hello my name is Robin. I'm here and open to what you have which ever way I may have to stretch!

STOP

Source: grayphotograph.com via Alex on Pinterest

Matthew 18:4

2011-12-29T06:56:00.000-08:00

1,000 Word Thursday

Source: images.google.com via Robin on Pinterest

Our Christmas story

2011-12-27T18:47:00.000-08:00

#236 - 252

Sweet Bec giving us the gift of song. Thanks for learning it and playing
That at 18 y.o, you still run for your bucket-o-dinosaurs
Warm homemade apple pie in an apple, thanks Bec!
Singing the 12 Days of Christmas loudly as we drove through WINTER WONDERLAND. Never get tired of the lights
Funny looking snowman cookies that make me LOL you're the best Reece
Pies galore from my guy who loves to bake
Candles candles everywhere
Taking sweet Betty to her 1st trip to the Spaghetti Factory
My new gold sparkly leaf
Colorful Christmas ornaments
All kinds of Christmas music
Stocking hung by the chimney with care
New recipe for Crock Pot Maple Brown Sugar Ham
Our eternally patient pets that let us dress them up
Working together as we face a year of 1st's with a Dad's passing
Sweet Betty telling us all the Chrimas story from memory
Most of all the reason for the season

Stashing

2011-12-23T07:23:00.000-08:00

Funny Friday

Source: mabyn.com via Robin on Pinterest

With all your might

2011-12-22T06:54:00.000-08:00

1,000 Word Thursday

Hospitality, a matter of the heart not the architecture.

2011-12-21T07:00:00.000-08:00

Wednesday's Word

I 've read a lot of awesome posts this year. Really I have. Many times I've found myself gasping and looking around the room for someone to read the words aloud to.

I found myself doing that this very morning, glad my Becca was handy so the words could be freed from the screen to the surrounding. It was perfect and my favorite thus far this year. Even she said, "Mom those are good words for you."
Thank you Lisa-Jo

It touched a nerve!

An ongoing goal for me: To be as comfortable sharing my home as I am myself.

Three years ago when we opened our home to care for our in-laws I experienced immediate anxiety regarding ENTERTAINING.

You see my mother in law has always played that role.

She had the fine china, REAL silverware that lived in a velvet lined box. Fantastic food from scratch and made with love. Her home was clean and finely decorated. Her table long and elegant seating for many much like an episode of The Walton's.

We live in a mobile home, small and... I'm not fancy. As I've said before I liken myself to a Proverbs 32 1/2 kind of woman.

I do love to decorate but outside of that I have an eclectic set of dishes and glasses because I can't make up my mind what I like. I buy them individually at Ross or Goodwill. I love fancy coctail glasses and we enjoy having milk out of martini glasses.
It depends on my mood for the day.

My silverware go from picnics to the table. My dishes are chipped and cooking is always an adventure. If something doesn't seem to be working right this southern girl just adds butter because butter can fix anything.

Just ask Paula Deen.

Anyhoo moving my in laws in to provide care meant that I (the unlikeliest of hostesses) would become the hostess to the entire family that lives all over the country and descends in droves on holidays...hungry and expectant.

Arrrghh

Here I sit three years later, even as I type, this little mobile home is full. Twenty people come to pay respects to their fathers first Christmas in Heaven and fellowship.
Oh I create some things, my son has become an amazing chef and saves the day as others donate their favorite yummies. It's a group effort.
We have found a rhythm for the most part and when I need a moment to breathe and be still I find my way to my bathroom and just sit on my toilet to hear the rolling of dice in the "near" adjoining room.

So as I said up there at the top =) Read it, read her blog and I'm sure if this too rings true to you, you will be blessed.
Click the link to travel to her blog as her photos add so much, or be content in this space below.

Your House is Only as Big as Your Hospitality

Thanks Lisa-Jo

"I am a reluctant renter.
Have been for years.
Our house is small, it has faux bricks that constantly fall off the kitchen walls and carpets that, well, let’s just say we have three kids under the age of six and leave the rest up to your imagination.

For years my small house has stunted my hospitality.

I’ve always loved to have friends over. I’m not awesome with a glue gun and I do not have any real furniture arranging mojo. But I’m generally comfortable in my own skin. And I love lingering over the last of the hot chocolate with friends and leaving the dishes for later.
Give me girlfriends, church friends, grand parents, aunts, uncles or cousins – I love to have them in my space.

But since my space has shrunk the last few years it turns out my hospitality has shrunk right along with it.

I didn’t realize quite how much until our South African cousins surprised us with the news they were going to be coming through the DC area and were so excited to come and visit – and hopefully stay – with us.
I was elated for 5 minutes before the wave of embarrassed disappointment hit.
The teeny living room, two bedrooms and one bathroom all flashed through my mind. Then there was the not-so-small matter that we only have 4 dining room chairs and no guest bedroom. An inflatable mattress and sofa pillows were the best we had to offer over night guests.

Five of them and five of us in our house seemed like a recipe for hostess hyperventilation.

So I was relieved when they said they’d be happy to stay at a hotel. And astonished when my husband emailed them back and insisted they stay with us.
I was incredulous. I pointed out the obvious. Our. House. Is. Small.
Turned out, however, Peter wasn’t limited by the size of our house. Because he had big hospitality in mind.
He said we should give them our master bedroom and we’d take the inflatable mattress in the playroom, even if it was only for a night. The kids could camp out on mattresses and sofa cushions in the living room. He was determined that our homesick boys would get a full dose of family. And that meant sleepovers included.
We made dinner a taco fiesta buffet and everyone ate anywhere they were comfy. We put our best sheets on the bed and fluffed up our favorite pillows for them. The boys rolled out their blankets and stuffed toys and plotted games and snacks and stories.

In the four years we’ve lived here our house has never felt as big as it did the week that the Vercueils visited us.
I learned that big hospitality has nothing to do with the size of your house.

Big hospitality is a matter of the heart and not the architecture.

Once I let go of the obsession with smallness, I was able to embrace the fun of squeezing as much big hospitality as we could manage into a week instead of worrying how it would fit into our four walls.

Maybe you’re like me. Maybe this holiday season has you hyperventilating at the thought of your house being exposed for all to see how small or cramped or imperfect it is.

May I suggest a mental shift? If you see your house as big and welcoming as you feel about the people you’re having over, so will everyone who walks through its doors.

The size of your house, my friends, is entirely in your own hands."

Infinite God becomes infant

2011-12-20T07:00:00.000-08:00

Tuesday's quotes

"Christmas cannot be bought. Christmas cannot be created. Christmas cannot be made by hand. Christmas can only be

found...

in the creche, in the cradling trough, in the mire and stench in the unexpected and unlikely and only in the person of Christ.

The mystery so large becomes the babe so small — and infinite God becomes infant.

Christ, the babe,

comes in Christmas as Christ the Savior comes on the cross —

Seeking only our embrace."

~ Ann Voskamp

Heart of Christmas

2011-12-19T07:00:00.000-08:00

This story...

The Son of God coming as a human, born of a virgin, living a life of sinless love, and dying for sinners that all who believe might have eternal life...

is a story that sits deeply in our minds this time of year.

We think fully on the babe.

Wrapped in swaddling clothes, the fragrance of his dear, soft mother.

He had the right to be born in the mightiest castles
He had the right to be born to the richest parents
He had the right to be born in the most favorable of times.

In order to save man, He stooped with arms open in humility

to humanity.

To be born and known as 'Jesus in a manger'.

Comprehending this, one can't help but think in unison of the sacrifice, His life, which is the most precious gift of all.

HE CAME AS A RANSOME FOR MANY

Christ took on human flesh so that he could die and in dying pay a ransom and free us from the power of death.

That is the meaning of Christmas

HE CAME TO CALL SINNERS TO REPENTANCE

'Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick; I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.'"

This is the meaning of Christmas

HE CAME TO GIVE SIGHT TO THE MORALLY BLIND

This is why Christ came: That those who do not see may see.

This is the meaning of Christmas.

HE CAME TO GIVE US ETERNAL LIFE

Christmas means that God sent his Son so that we could believe and have eternal life.

This is the heart of Christmas!

Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.

#220-235

Friends support through calls, messages, meals
Sweet Betty's tears on my cheeks as we embrace
Wrapping my arms around my husband and holding his heart
One last goodbye
Helping my kidlets win the tackiest sweater contest
Goodwill and Salvation Army
That we can still hear their bells ringing
The most amazing school talent show, watching my sweet girl beat those drums like there was no tomorrow
Abundance of family filling to overflowing our little house
The sound of dice
My camera capturing memories
Christmas movies (ELF=) huddled in blankets
Funeral service full of friends and family
Pandora (Christmas station)
A great pastor
3 brothers hugging my neck in unison with love and gratitude for care that flowed from Christ, these hands to their dad

I'll be home for Christmas

2011-12-15T10:08:00.000-08:00

1,000 Word Thursday

His first Christmas in Heaven

2011-12-14T08:58:00.000-08:00

The time has come.

We never really thought it would. He has done better than any thought and we just kind of figured he may defy science and medicine.

Death, in our shared faith of Christianity, is actually a birth into Jesus' arms. It's a temporary separation for us as a family because we know that we know we will soon be together.

As we talk about this process with our children we describe it as holding hands with their grandpa and walking into the foyer of Heaven, as far as these earthly bodies can take us.

What an honor.

My sweet Betty whispers in his ear how much she loves him while stroking his face tenderly with her hand. His eyes open momentarily as she begins to pray.

We gather round bout the bed recalling our favorite memories, stories and jokes that caused him to giggle.
Like...
"What do you get when you goose a ghost? A handful of sheet!"

We love you Ruben Melvin Larrabee and though we are so thoroughly heartbroken for our loss we know you are so excited to spend your first Christmas in Heaven!

Just the way He wants it

2011-12-13T09:21:00.000-08:00

Tuesday's Quotes

Source: Uploaded by user via Robin on Pinterest

The beautiful people

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

This week I fight hard with dirt beneath my nails to find things to give thanks for.

As always thankful for my family

This was no pretty week!

The temptation; to not blog at all. To stuff down the ugliness because after all I'm a mature God fearing Christian woman. Don't we reach a point in our maturity where we no longer need to see such ugliness in our hearts?

This is the month of blessings and giving thanks for said blessings.

Not speaking it...well then it's somehow not committed to.

I feel as though I just crawled through the muck and mire to this keyboard. Somehow it seems an injustice for "Laughtershock" to be so heavy and downtrodden of late but it real, it's life.

Truly at wits end. Ready to cash it all in...whatever that means. I drive about with thoughts of a one way trip out of town. Could I do that to my children? So hemmed in and yet shocked that the thought even finds it's way into my entertainment.

As I wrestle my flesh I know that caregiver fatigue is mostly the culprit but I don't seem to be able to right myself. This boat sees itself about to capsize.

The frailest of people, needing love and support and care. Striving to deliver their happiness but it seems to merely evaporate in thin air as it leaves my hands.

Ahhh Lord give me strength.What more can I do?

This downcast, discouraged and drained of all strength soul.

My strength is in You and right here at the end of myself may I find You and Your rest.

Worry is my bedfellow and I rebuke it.

May this time next year Lord I look back and see a reflection of a beautiful person...woman. Refined and with Your reflection!

The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths.

These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity, and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness, and a deep, loving concern.

Beautiful people do not just happen.

--Elizabeth Kubler-Ross--

#217 Your promises
# 218 Faith
# 219 Family

Pigment on the canvas

2011-12-09T07:00:00.000-08:00

1. Write for 5 minutes flat – no editing, no over thinking, no backtracking.
2. Link back here and invite others to join in.
3. Most importantly: leave a comment for the person who linked up before you – encouraging them in their writing!OK, are you ready? Give me your best five minutes on:

Color…

Ahh the vibrancy of life! Sometimes with luster and shine and others with a matt finish....

Definition @ Dictionary.com

The quality of an object or substance with respect to light reflected by the object, usually determined visually by measurement of hue, saturation, and brightness of the reflected light; saturation or chroma; hue.

I absolutley love this definition.

The first image gathered in these dusty tired brain cells is one of my Father. My Heavenly Father who tossed the stars in the heavenlies.
His quality is pristine and pure. The light reflected from Him is warmth that rains down in a luminescent golden hued shower.

Secondly- I think on personalities, conversations and life lived in this little house. A house full of people young and old that bring sparkle and pigment on this canvas called life.

Thirdly- Girly giddyness over comes me as I muse over glorious tubes of lipgloss/stick, eyeshadows, blush, jewlrey, purses and shoes that bring me such girly delight!

Best man ever

sweet Betty

From this

To this

STOP

A mother's love

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

1,000 Word Thursday

A mother's love

Behind the scenes

2011-12-07T06:00:00.000-08:00

Wednesday's Word

Im a sucker for a good quote.

Below is just one of thousands that I bump into, then can't wait to paint a canvas with.

I oft think on the masterful flesh and bones behind the exciting equation of words. Comedians, political figures, actors, writers, bloggers..

The Bible, Movies, books, ...

Today my eyes fell on this ...

The reason we struggle with insecurity is because we compare our behind-the-scenes with everyone else’s highlight reel.

Steven Furtick

Immediately an Amen spilled from my lips.

Is this not so incredibly true?!?

I recently read somewhere online that upwards of 95% of people in this country suffer from a strong sense of insecurity.

Hello world, it's me Robin...is this true?

Anxiety, despair, doubts, lack of trust seemingly leaves no one immune, even amongst us Christians.

The Bible is chalked full of awesome people who dealt with this. First to come to mind is poor Elijah. In spite of his triumph over the prophets of Baal, Elijah fell into deep despair.

Hmmm. Where does this leave us, especially as Christians? One could most certainly write a thesis on this. I don't fancy myself much of a writer and can barely spell the word but I will say this...

OPEN HIS WORD! GO TO HIM! CAST YOUR CARES TO HIM!

There is no man or woman alive that can fill your cup like He, the Lover of your very soul. He yearns for YOU! He formed you and knitted you so perfectly. Just how it gave Him pleasure.

Source: Uploaded by user via Robin on Pinterest

OPEN HIS WORD! GO TO HIM! CAST YOUR CARES TO HIM!

The Scriptures, especially the Psalms are resplendent with words of courage, strength, resiliency, faith and the means to prevail over our fears, our feelings of inadequacy.

“When I am afraid, I will trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can mortal man do to me?”

David's words whilst being relentlessly pursued by Saul.

“Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The Lord, the Lord, is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation”

The key to triumph over fears and insecurities?

Fervent trust in God.

Let's quit grabbing hold of our "behind the scenes" while holding it high next to others "highlight reel" and push to FERVENTLY trust in our Big God who doesn't' make mistakes!

Do I hear an Amen in the house =)

Each of us an Innkeeper

2011-12-06T07:00:00.000-08:00

Tuesday's Quote

Source: churchstagedesignideas.com via Deb on Pinterest

“Each of us is an Innkeeper who decides if there is room for Jesus”

Neal A. Maxwell

Purposeful Gratitude

2011-12-05T06:22:00.000-08:00

Once again I sit in stillness and contemplate.

I cherish how Ann (without the fanciful 'e') pulled the covers back and exposed a thankful heart of praise.

Not only demonstrating how, but engaging us in what I like to call

Operation PURPOSEFUL GRATITUDE!

I'm not going to pretend this is always easy, in fact there are moments as I type away on this keyboard I want to yell, and complain and whine and cry. I'm tired...just posted below, is exactly how I feel in my bones. As though I've been running against gale force winds.

Giving thanks is a purposeful and intentional exercise.

Just as a physical exercise regime will increase heart and lung capacity while toning muscles, purposeful routine exercises in gratitude increases our ability to spot things to be thankful for, endure hardships and strengthen our faith.

On occasion I've heard from the Christian community this msg...

"thanks should flow naturally out of understanding of what He did for us on the cross".

Believe me I am thankful to my inseams for that sacrifice. I am in love with Jesus and this will not change unto death.
However if I'm being honest, that knowledge has not made this Christian woman always grateful for the plate life sets before her.
This very week has spied me grumbling and complaining more than I care to admit. I've been short with my family, friends, co-workers and patients. I've eaten things I know I shouldn't and just plain felt sorry for myself.

Thank goodness for His grace.

This purposeful exercise of GRATITUDE, family, friends and His word hidden in my heart has pointed me in the direction...In His direction.

Join us in the journey of INTENTIONAL THANKSGIVING

# 202-216

Hospice (The whole team are angels)
Respite to shop
The caregiver who sat with my father-n-law for the day
New Red lipstick
Random findings on Pintrest
Listening to my daughter play her heart out on her drums
Friends (yes again)
Family
My sweet sons hugs
Watching/listening to my mother in law squeal as my dtr put her electric w/c on high and sped through the mall
My enduringly patient and loving husband
My Christmas tree that looks like a circus hijacked it
Christmas lights at night
Build-a-Bear
Enjoying friends I haven't seen in ages. Laughter with this man

whizzing fast

Pursed lip breathing

2011-12-02T07:00:00.000-08:00

Bahahahaha!!! Oh I can't even believe this is our word this week. A week that started with...

Hairdresser: "Robin what would you like me to do with the gray coming in at your temples"
Me: Wha?
Hairdresser: "Yes it's really taking off"
Me: Wha?
Hairdresser: "Most women want me to color it, what would you like me to do?"
Me: I need time, (Pursed lip breathing insues) I can't make such a daunting decision in a 2 hours span.
Hairdresser: "Wha?"
Me: Color around it until I decide
Hairdresser: "Wha?"
Me: This news is making new gray come in I can feel it so color around it.......

And well the rest of it pretty much went round the mulberry bush and I will have to blog on it at some point but today it's about Tired.

GO:

Tired has had me in it's grip this week. Threatening the surrounding air, threatening peaceful thoughts, rest and peace.
Forgetting to breathe, the frenetic thoughts squeeze my head like a vise. Tears would be a fresh rain in this drought but they do not come.
I don't want to always complain and I want to capture and savor every moment but caring for a terminally ill parent is daunting in itself but adding in children and work, well "TIRED" almost defies my fingers from this keyboard.
My heart beats with love, and care for this tender frail being and other days I just pray Lord take him! He wants to be with You Lord.
How does a person EVER come to grips with such a battlefield of thoughts and emotions?
I'll tell you were I have to start...EVERY TIME!

The place to start at the end of our road, is at the beginning of His!

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

I will listen to what God the LORD says; he promises peace to his people, his faithful servants— but let them not turn to folly.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

The peace that God gives you will guard your minds. The peace that God gives you will strengthen you. The peace that God gives will you will keep your heart tender The peace that God gives will gird you in your time of need.

STOP

Love

2011-12-01T06:07:00.000-08:00

1,000 Word Thursday

Christian Culture snob

2011-11-30T06:26:00.000-08:00

Wednesday's Word

I came across this quote in my Internet perusings, "Christian Culture Snob"

"A Christian culture snob is a Christian that makes fun of people and things that are deemed Christian.”

As I read the article I understood this blogger attempting to make restitution for mocking Christianity and it's culture. And believe me I see this type of predjudice on a daily basis as do you, I'm sure.

But that's not what I want to write about... (though I could write a book). I want to talk here about the COUNTER kind of snobbery. Christian arrogance and entitlement.

You know, the kind... "I am on the church board, have been a part of the congregation for 20+ years, I have built this church, I have played at this piano for a generation" and so on and so forth, kind of Christian vanity.

Yes I said it, We Christians can be right down stuck up in routines and traditions. So caught up we lose sight of our First Love! We lose sight of our dirt while pointing to the next pew over.

"Oh, how horrible our sins look when they are committed by someone else"

Chuck Smith

I can take this tone because I myself have been guilty. The moment God revealed this root of pretentiousness in my heart was the moment I made a promise to myself.

That promise was to never forget whence I came.

I pray the Lord summons my memory as oft as He see fit to keep fresh the recollection of the muck and mire He pulled me from.
To not forget the importance of regularly acknowledging my roots as a Christian. To flee from judgement and his brother pride.

But he's already made it plain how to live, what to do, what God is looking for in men and women.It's quite simple: Do what is fair and just to your neighbor, be compassionate and loyal in your love,And don't take yourself too seriously— take God seriously.

I pray Lord you will keep fresh bare in my minds eye that Every saint has a past and every sinner has a future!
Your mercies are new EVERY morning.

Of Death and Dying…

2011-11-29T10:09:00.000-08:00

My dear friend Laurie is traversing down similar paths and life rhythms with me in this moment. Terraced with rocks and cliffs, valleys, mountain tops, weeds as well as flowers, tears of joy and sorrow all in one space.

Attempting to allow life to infuse it's circle into our understanding and soak in every ornamental detail. Walking with loved ones as they breathe their last of this earthly air and inhale deeply their first taste of His kingdom is a daunting task that can only be understood in the journey.

Today is her expression of this journey...

Darrol and Glenda

It’s been a difficult week. You see, my husband’s father was diagnosed with the “C” word last week… and the “C” is aggressive – it has started invading many of his vital organs and, according to the doctor, this sweet man has very little time left here on this earth.

This news not only thrust my heart into grieving - both for my loss and, even more so, my

husband’s – but it touched a nerve causing feelings to resurface relating to my own experience of

losing a parent. Ten years ago this month – yes, a month where holidays are in full swing, a month

sanctioned for ‘giving thanks’ - my mom was also diagnosed with cancer..stage 3 lung cancer. I could

not imagine getting worse news – it tore all of our hearts in two – and left my dad’s in pieces.

I went on to watch her go through treatments and occasionally see glimmers of hope, only to have those hopes dashed as time marched on with no apparent bodily healing in store for her. I watched her lose her appetite and slowly fade away. As the cancer took more and more, she became less and less. As she lay in the hospital in a coma, I felt compelled to remain with her and witness her exiting this life and entering the next. And then…the last breath…and I felt like all the breath in my body went with her – her gasp was my gasp… – not unlike having the wind knocked out of you. For those of us who have been privileged to know and love our mothers and be loved back, their death can feel almost like a second cutting of the umbilical cord…only this time you are very, very cognizant of the separation. It’s so indescribable, and, as odd as this sounds, I think the writers of Grey’s Anatomy really captured it best in the clip below…

“I don’t know how to exist in a world where my dad

doesn’t…”

These words described perfectly how I felt losing my mom.

The other night I tried to insist to my husband that he should ‘let me in’ to his grief - that I knew what he was going through – but does anyone really know what someone else is going through at the core of their being when death makes its grand entrance into their life? Even though I had gone through similar circumstances, I quickly realized I don’t know. As I’ve watched him processing his pain and imminent loss so differently than I processed mine, it suddenly seems presumptuous and preposterous to even make such a declaration.

There’s a clandestine nature to death by cancer – the way it creeps in silently, snatching everything within its greedy reach, then leaves loudly, taking hostage the one you loved so deeply. Death is like Satan’s lover. It brings with it a wave of darkness affecting everyone in its path by its thievery, and, in some cases, dredging up raw emotions as if it were digging graves in our very souls.

BUT…

Jesus conquered this villain and death’s defeat is our

victory.

And this victory ushers in a host of opportunities…opportunities to mend relationships; opportunities to heal spiritually even when physical healing doesn’t come; opportunities to move into the “L” word – LOVE. A space of time is created to allow us to love deliberately and with abandon. There is nothing left to lose. And then, within the ugliness of death, emerges love-drenched life.

Laurie

God’s way of taking care of us

2011-11-28T06:44:00.000-08:00

“Friends are God’s way of taking care of us”

I honestly don't know what I would do without true friends during this season. They have scooped me up and held up my arms high. Filled me with laughter and generous joy.

Of course I know God has delivered them to me and I am so in awe and gratitude!

God knows our heart. He knows all our struggles and weaknesses. He knows what we have been going through. He knows all the frustrations, all the stress, all the temptations we have battled. He knows all our hopes, desires, dreams and aspirations.
He understands the plans and goals we have set for ourselves. He knows everything about us, and he cares about our life.
I am learning that if I will only give Him myself fully, He will make Himself fully known to me. He will care for me and provide more than I ever could myself...more than I could ever imagine!
Some of that care and provision He pours right through our friends.

This week I have been giving glorious thanks for those angels we call friends!

Who are the dear ones in your life that are there not just for the joyful laughter, but also the tears streaming down the face? Who is there for every heartbreak, every hurtful moment, and who has forgiven even when you have been the cause of pain? Who will be there for you when the body may begin to fail and the memories fade? Who will hold your hand, stroke your hair, and offer silent prayers even when they cannot find words?

#186-201

(Grab the button and join in)

Being silly with my family
The beginning of a months worth of Christmas movies
Decorating
Thanksgiving with my best friend and her family. I love how she takes care of me.
Watching my son run yet another race
Awesome shoes...that I will never wear
New lip gloss (because 300 tubes are not enough)
Watching my son bake
Slumber party for the after 40's
Birthday parties
Early morning breakfast on a farm
Spontaneous limo ride through the Oregon Vineyards
A beautiful elderly couple with the joy of the Lord. I love hearing and seeing how she is loving him and holding his hand as he slips from his earthly uniform into his Glory robes!
Sheep grazing
Another blessed Seattle trip to see my baby girl (18) have the honor of performing at the Western International Band Clinic with amazing leaders and conductors.

Reece you are an amazing baker!

A Crazy Lady’s Guide to Black Friday

2011-11-23T07:00:00.000-08:00

I've recently bumped into a new favorite. In fact she is new to me completely. I feel like yelling out...Gurl where have you been, all my life!? I must have been under a rock!

Her name is Margaret and I can tell I like her a lot. I think we could sit to coffee and chat for a couple of hours no problem. She is smart and witty and has a glorious gleam in her eyes that reflect humor and Jesus.

Somehow I bumped into her in the Twitter universe then found my way to her blog

Drop by Margaret Feinberg's place and sit a spell.

Typically Wednesday's at Laughtershock are about His word or impressions on my heart. My attempt at a short study of a scripture or idea. Something that has piqued my interest or moved me...and such :-)

As we approach Thanksgiving season, like every Thanksgiving, I feel quite inept. Not so much with the cooking and baking. It's the BLACK FRIDAY HOLE of no return I run from.
I've tried it and after several failed attempts I've determined I just don't have what it takes to be part of the gang.
I'm not a morning person, I hate crowds...especially in the morning, I don't like being stepped on in the morning, I don't like when people are grumpy...in the morning, I don't like buying socks 1/2 off...early in the morning. I have yet to see a deal yet that would have me pitch a tent on a cold, wet and dreary Oregon night just to get the ONE UP on those who are willing to pry their eyelids open at 4 am. YUCK!!! Besides all of that I've yet to hear a person stand up in church to share how Black Friday changed their life, healed the sick or led others to the Lord!!
Did I mention I'm not a morning person?

THEN

I bumped into Margaret's blog on the subject and now feel better about myself. I'm not alone and maybe there are even others out there that are like us.
I will pass the baton to her now and enjoy.........

Margaret’s Monday Musing: A Crazy Lady’s Guide to Black Friday

Black Friday is that glorious day after Thanksgiving which marks the first day of the holiday shopping season. In the past several years, the Friday has been the busiest day of the shopping year. Where did “Black Friday” come from? Philadelphians first began using the term before 1966 to refer to the thick mob of pedestrian and car traffic. Black Friday also refers to the black ink used in retail stores to show a profit.
Follow my guide to ensure you save the most money!

1. Scope out stores several days ahead of time. Create a to-scale model with building blocks and foam to ensure the best accuracy. How many steps are between the checkout and that screwdriver kit? Is it a 46 or 47-degree angle between the fuzzy snowman socks and the replica of your grandmother’s antique teapot? These are the questions you need to ask; every second wasted is an extra penny spent. Don’t be afraid to ask an employee for blueprints. As you case the joint in the days leading up to Friday, keep an eye out for any white-haired lady or Jr. Higher you see more than once. Chances are, they’re also scoping out the store.

2. Pour over every catalogue or newspaper ad. The Internet is your friend; it may hold a treasure cove of further discounts. Now is when you whip out that homemade raven-colored coupon holder. Take loads of time at the register to sort through all your un-alphabetical and un-categorized coupons. Especially if the man behind you picked up those fake diamond earrings you wanted for your wife. He’ll grow so frustrated he’ll throw them to the ground and stomp away. Now the earrings are finally yours and, justasec-wait, one second…I’ve got a coupon for those…

3. Brush up on your rollerblading skills. Traversing the mall will be faster on numerous wheels than on your own ground-bound feet. Besides, elbow and kneepads will allow you to shove a path through the crowds. If you want a competitive edge, pull the bottoms off of soccer cleats and attach them to your pads. Watch how smoothly a path now forms in front of you.

4. Bring camping equipment when you stand in line the night before. A tent will keep your toes toasty and your secrets safe as you review your plan. Bring hot chocolate with big fluffy marshmallows; the drifting aroma will cause slight madness in your competition, making it easier to out wit them. With any luck, the cold will freeze off your more daunting rivals.

5. Paint black streaks underneath your eyes for an air of ruthlessness. Also, refrain from showering a week in advance. The stench and grunge-look will strike fear in others’ hearts.
Be tough. Be callous. GO! GO! GO!
Have loads of fun.

I’m sleeping in.
(I'm with you Margaret =)

Thank you Margaret for an awesome post and letting me share!

Proverbs 32 1/2 Woman

2011-11-18T08:00:00.000-08:00

For only five short, bold, beautiful minutes. Unscripted and unedited. We just write without worrying if it’s just right or not.

OK, are you ready? Give me your best five minutes on:

Grow…

GO

I was so worried about being a good mother and a good wife. I had nothing to draw from and was a blank canvas.
Knowing not one lullaby and having such distrust in men, I felt overwhelmed and ill prepared.

I would break out in a cold sweat every time the preacher would teach about the "PROVERBS 31 woman"

I would always think to myself...

"Father that just isn't me, so Lord is there a Proverbs 32 1/2 woman? One who doesn't keep things real tidy, doesn't sew, doesn't know the first thing about cooking or canning or ANYTHING but will love on her family and grow into a woman whose heart beats after you?

I will be that one.

Well fast forward 20 years and well...
I still am not very tidy, I hate sewing but have adapted real well to a glue gun, I don't get canning but am a real quick draw opening one with my handy dandy Pamper chef can opener and most importantly I have a heart that beats after Him.

My husband and children have taught me how/what love is. They have helped me grow from a trembling insecure wreck of a woman into a mom and a wife that would give her very life for them.
Oh and I know a few lullaby's now too =)

STOP

Running the race

2011-11-17T07:13:00.000-08:00

1,000 Word Thursday

Be Yourself

2011-11-16T04:52:00.000-08:00

Wednesday's Word

Ran across this tweet yesterday:

RT @MatthewBarnett: Never let a few people that don't get you, shape you, into their limited knowledge of what you can become. // YES!!

Matthew Barnett is the Pastor of the L.A. Dream Center and author of the New York Times Bestselling Book "The Cause Within You".

It got me thinking...

WHEN PEOPLE'S OPINIONS MATTER TOO MUCH!

We can fall somewhere between

having no self identity.
Shape shifting into those in our near vicinity (like a chameleon).
Smiling & nodding only to later stew...

THEN OTHER TIMES we carefully remove all jewelery, our glasses and purse and roll up the sleeves to allow the inner SHANIQUA's release like the KRAKEN. The poor souls had no idea this would be the last day they took a breath! (I tend to fall into this category =()

Hopefully we fall somewhere in the middle.

In any case, as I pondered this tweet I came to this conclustion.

How can we best witness the TRUTH in our lives if we don't even know the truth.

Seriously could write a book on this.

Not everyone has the proper judgment in determining when we are right, wrong or indifferent. There is truely only One!

It's next-to-impossible to be yourself when you're caught up in constantly wondering "Do they think I'm funny? Does she think I'm fat? Do they think I'm stupid? Am I good/clever/popular enough to be a part of 'whomever'?"
To be yourself, you've got to let go of these concerns and just let your behavior flow, with only your consideration of others as a filter — not their consideration of you.

Matthew followed up with another tweet on the subject:

RT @MatthewBarnett If you are ruled by people's opinion then you refuse to let God have dominion.

Amen and Amen!

I wonder if this is what we look like to God as we labor to be someone we are not?

Oscar Wilde once said with his usual wit: Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.

It's ok to be wrong

2011-11-15T07:56:00.000-08:00

Tuesday's quote

“To live a creative life

We must lose our fear

Of being wrong.”

Joseph Chilton Pearce

Warm embers of sweet freedom!

2011-11-14T06:49:00.000-08:00

WAHS!

Oregon gov John Kitzhaber with Oregon mounted Governors guard

ACROSS THIS GREAT NATION!

Honor Guard at Vietnam Veterans Memorial in D.C

US Marine Corps ROTC in PA

Shelva Border in Gulfport Miss. Dtr of Chief petty officer Raymond Border

WW2 vetreran wished to go unnamed in New York NY

#177-185

I love this great nation that I live in. There is no country like it in the world. No country offers the privileges, the freedoms and the rights that the United States offers. Not all countries allow for their citizens to elect their leaders. Not all countries allow for their citizens to bear more than one child.

This nation holds great opportunities that no other nations possess.

I am incredibly thankful that I live in a country that allows me to speak and believe what I feel. I am incredibly thankful that I live in a nation with a government that cannot dictate my life. I am incredibly thankful that I live in the land of the free and the home of the brave.

Thankful to the veterans who stepped forward and stood tall when we needed their service.

Without our veterans, this country never would have become the country it is today. God bless our troops, God bless our veterans, and

God bless the United States of America.

Closely knitted to my heart

2011-11-11T06:47:00.000-08:00

1. Write for 5 minutes flat – no editing, no over thinking, no backtracking.
2. Link back here and invite others to join in.
3. Most importantly: leave a comment for the person who linked up before you – encouraging them in their writing!

For fun, for love of the sound of words, for play, for delight, for joy and celebration at the art of communication.
For only five short, bold, beautiful minutes. Unscripted and unedited. We just write without worrying if it’s just right or not.
Won’t you join us?

UNEXPECTED:

GO

I keep touching on the subject in conversations and on my keyboard. I didn't expect to feel such sadness at those words. I mean we have been expecting it for quite some time. Preparing and stealing ourselves for such a time as this.

He is ready, has been for a couple of years now. Ready to meet his precious Creator that he has diligently talked and taught about for years.

"Yes Mame", he says to my sweet Betty, "I do believe Ruben has 6 months or less to live"

I'm a nurse, I've watched his slow and steady decline since they moved in with us. Twenty pounds evaporated in just the last few months. I knew going into this appointment what words would be spoken, but...

Just last Thanksgiving I was giving thanks at how well he was doing and how he seemed to be thriving in our midst.
In fact as I swirl through past posts I see several dedicated to just my heart bursting at the seams for them and their love story.

Six months left to live.... I've sat with patients who've just received such news but never one so closely knitted to my heart.
I watched my sweet Betty's face, noting every blink, every tremble of the lip, and every attempt to sit strong and brave. Their frail fingers intertwined so very tight.

From the very beginning I believed with all my heart that we were doing the best we could for my husbands parents. Bringing them home with us, tending to and loving them. But...

I was wrong!

As I look back it is WE who have been tended to. It is WE who have been blessed! Just when we think we are doing unto others, it is HE doing unto us!

STOP

Turtley

2011-11-10T06:00:00.000-08:00

1,000 Word Thursday

I can totally relate to this turtle. Big God, Big plans and I'm waving my arms around telling Him how to do it...

LOLOLOLOL

The Power of our Faith

2011-11-09T05:44:00.000-08:00

Wednesday's Word

Just prior to these words David was feeling
Alone, Forgotten, Ignored and Weak. Almost defeated. Constantly hassled by his enemies.

He was crying out:

LORD DID YOU FORGET ME? HOW LONG MUST I STRUGGLE?

I love how vulnerable and transparent he is before his Daddy.

Even those not new to their faith in the One True God

experience attacks from all sides, and it seems that trouble and her sister distress are around every corner.

In verse 4, David is dreading how his enemies will gloat and rejoice over his defeat.

I too struggle with this at times and find myself crying out to Him to make it all RIGHT!

To turn on a radio, tv or sit to the internet, is to be overtaken with fear and trepidation in all that swirls about, not only in our country but our world.

In verse 5 David's tone changes. He looks above his fears and throws himself into the arms of the Lord.

We must do the same. When we sink low into the despair and hopelessness of what seems certain defeat, we must look up to the Lord and say:

But I trust in your unfailing love. I will rejoice because you have rescued me. I will sing to YOU Lord because YOU are good to me.

That's the power of our faith. That's a test of our faith. That's what can happen when we draw near to God. If we bring it all to Him and leave it there, through His grace and mercy He will enable us to sing again. He will rescue us.

My prayer this week as I struggle with finding emotional strength for my family and my ailing father in law is simply this:

Help me to trust
Help my heart to rejoice
Help keep the song alive in my heart

We ALL make them!

2011-11-08T05:39:00.000-08:00

Tuesday's Quote

Melting under His influence

2011-11-07T07:00:00.000-08:00

“We ought to give thanks for all fortune: if it is good, because it is good, if bad, because it works in us patience, humility and the contempt of this world and the hope of our eternal country”

C.S. Lewis

As usual I was blog surfing (a guilty pleasure like chocolate) and was drawn into words. A quote at "The Glorious deeds of Christ" and my thoughts wakened.

"Christian gratitude begins at the cross. We were God’s enemies, we despised His call on our lives and His claim on our hearts. The Holy Spirit reached out to us:

he convicted, he wooed, he drew, he convinced us of the Father’s love for us.

We melted under his influence recognizing that there was nothing in us that deserved saving.

By God’s grace, we saw Christ’s sacrifice on the Cross as our just punishment for ignoring, violating, and despising God’s commands.

We were astonished by Christ’s sacrifice:

gratitude overwhelmed us as we saw God’s grace acting to deliver us from our self-imposed darkness.

In turn, we met the resurrected Christ, He not only forgave us, but renewed, restored, and healed us.

Astonished gratitude was our only response then and continues our heart’s cry now."

Oh how that last line moves me to my knees!

ASTONISHED GRATITUDE WAS OUR ONLY RESPONSE THEN AND CONTINUES OUR HEART'S CRY NOW!

#163-176

Wonderful time with a dear friend worshipping with Jeremy Camp and friends (for more times than I can remember =)

Getting lost with my family in one of my favorite cities P O R T L A N D

A mixture of sadness, relief, praise and thanks while holding hands with my sweet father in law as we all decided the time had come to sign on for hospice care.

An extra hour to stay up and watch movies with the fam! ( I love to FALL BACK)

Twittering with my two dearest friends to a conversation that made absolutely no sense.

Ye old Spaghetti Factory

Kissing my husby until my kiddos squeal and beg us to stop...( I know they secretly love it)

My electric heating pad

One tall P U M K I N S P I C E latte for the season

Worshipping next to the sweetest Down's syndrome young lady that sang out with lungs full

A 3 day weekend! YAY
Sweet wonderful neighbor, we love how you keep safe our driveway and blow the leaves far so our sweet Betty does not fall
BLT's
Action Friends (you know who you are)

Been so blessed to get so many of these. It's like candy! Starbursts to be exact!

Purly sweet she is.

My ♥ Never can I get a normal picture unless I pay a professional

Pumpkin spice Latte...slurp

NEVER tire of Fall's foliage

Don't remember where I found this image? Maybe Ann Voskamp?

“When we learn to read the story of Jesus and see it as the story of the love of God, doing for us what we could not do for ourselves--that insight produces, again and again, a sense of astonished gratitude which is very near the heart of authentic Christian experience.”

N.T. Wright

I am From Him

2011-11-04T07:00:00.000-07:00

For only five short, bold, beautiful minutes. Unscripted and unedited. We just write without worrying if it’s just right or not.

REMEMBER

GO:

Wow! That word hit me square between the brows. Heavy but quickly turning to recognition that I am free.
Back in '09 I shared my "I am from" story with this here blog. It was a painful process but where His light shines, His healing begins.

You are my lamp Lord, You turn my darkness into light.

He reached right into my pit of despair and commanded His light to shine out. To shine out from my heart to give me the light of His glory
and the ice melted.

He has blessed me greatly with a new life and new memories made.

Every now and again a voice from the past steps forward and shouts to me. Glaring directly in my eyes, almost mocking. Even moments ago as I glanced at The Gypsy Mama's word REMEMBER.
Ahhh His sweet illumination fills my heart, soul, body and memory cells. PTL

Stop

Delicious Autumn

2011-11-03T07:24:00.000-07:00

1,000 Word Thursday

The Shelter of the Most High

2011-11-02T06:00:00.000-07:00

Wednesday's Word

To be nowhere but under the Shadow of the Almighty!

A Secret Place in God provides:

A shadow that covers us, Psalm 91:1
A refuge that provides security, Psalm 91:2
A rescue from being trapped, Psalm 91:3
An impenetrable shield, Psalm 91:4

A Secret Place in God means…
We are not to fear nightmares, Psalm 91:5a
We are not to fear serious accidents, Psalm 91:5b
We are not to fear mysterious disease, Psalm 91:6a
We are not to fear visible disaster, Psalm 91:6b
We are not to fear what happens to others, Psalm 91:7
We are not to fear what happens to the wicked, Psalm 91:8

A Secret Place in God is a place…
Where we are with the Most High God, Psalm 91:9
Where we are free from damage, Psalm 91:10
Where we are guarded by angels, Psalm 91:11
Where we are carried by angels, Psalm 91:12
Where we are able to stop anything harmful, Psalm 91:13
Where we love God, and God delivers us, Psalm 91:14
Where we call God and God answers us, Psalm 91:15
Where we see God’s salvation and experience real life, Psalm 91:16

Visual acuity

2011-11-01T06:00:00.000-07:00

Tuesday's Quotes

VISUAL ACUITY: Ones visual acuity is an indication of the clarity or clearness of one's vision. It's a measurement of how well a person sees. The word "acuity" comes from the Latin acuitas, which means sharpness.

PRESBYOPIA: Loss of focusing ability.

SCOTOMA: Dark "holes" in the visual field in which nothing can be seen.

For myself and every eye that may happen upon this page my prayer is this:

Father heap Your intelligence and discernment in knowing You personally, our eyes focused and clear, so that we can see exactly what it is You are calling us to do, grasping the immensity of this glorious way of life You have for Your followers, oh, the utter extravagance of his work in us who trust him—endless energy, boundless strength!

The sky is the limit

2011-10-31T05:38:00.000-07:00

#149-162

So very excited to go with a group of awesome senior girls to the beach. To know them as children and see them as young women is a thing of awesome beauty.

Their futures ahead with the sky as their limit!

To hear their laughter, to play games into the night, to get a peek at the little girl that still slips out, to watch them hold hands, make dinner together and even work through differences, I am spilling over full.

Through pouring rain, a quick glance at the sun, brave confident raccoons, and a tiny little yurt that was exploding at the seams with overstuffed duffle bags and backpacks

we made memories.

Each young woman with a story and a dream.

What privledge I held to watch and listen.

What joy I look forward to tonight, as I run and

DIVE INTO MY OWN STILL WARM BED.

:-)

Puddle jumping and rain boots

I love her spirit of adventure

Words defy definiton

Best Friends

Yurt view.

A few step to this. Beverly Beach

Her story of endurance and strength amazes me

Dicecapades arrrrgh

LOVE

Oh the thundering power that brings such peace

Girls that have my heart

Entertaining myself with the local seaweed. Can you guess?

My fav! The sky is the limit girls!

As the wind whips peaks on the waves tips, the white thunders down into a foamy quiet lather. With a pitch as though you are breathing.

On the shore, your waters stretche as far as one can see, to the horizon. Changing color with the light and the color of the sky, from green to blue to gray. At twilight, you and the sky seem to meet up as one. Oh what mysteries you hold!

Seagulls circle and call out. Nostrils fill with saltwater in the air, a scent like no other.
Standing alone with the vastness of Your deep mysteries surrounding,
I feel Your arms engulfed about. Safe, protected, secure and in Awe!

A mother's love

2011-10-28T06:00:00.000-07:00

Write for 5 minutes flat – no editing, no over thinking, no backtracking.
Link back here and invite others to join in.
Most importantly: leave a comment for the person who linked up before you – encouraging them in their writing!

OK, are you ready? Give me your best five minutes on:

Today's word:

First impressions...Am I relevant in my home and if so how?
RELEVANT

Real
Engaged
Listens
Empathetic
Volition
Absolute
Near
Transparent

This can only begin to express the exercise of purposeful and intentional nurturing to the little ones born to our wombs or to our arms from another. There is not better position to hold in the world, no office nor seat!
Thank you Lord!

STOP!

Princess for a day

2011-10-27T05:44:00.000-07:00

1,000 Word Thursday

Doesn't every girl desire to be a princess at one time or another?

I've thrown my lot in with Him.

2011-10-26T06:50:00.000-07:00

Wednesday's Word

When I saw the above photo, after the awwwww, I could immediately relate!

“I can do it…” “I’ll get through this...”

I’ve made statements like that many times. If I didn’t say it out loud, I have thought it and acted accordingly. Sometimes, I’m able to get through on my own strength and other times I completely fail, with total awareness that my strength was no match for what I was facing.

David shares that “the Lord” was his strength and his shield. He also depended on his own strength and shields, succeeding and failing over the course of his life.

I L O V E his story, testimony and humanity.

As a successful military commander and King, I’m sure that he knew very well the limits of a man’s strength and his shield.

Would he have entered the battlefield weak, without a shield, just depending on the Lord for strength and shielding?

I doubt it.

David learned what part he played and what part the Lord plays.
He learned to engage in the battle with the Lord.

Is there a better outcome if we do depend on the Lord’s strength and shielding? YES.
Are we able to do super-human feats whenever we want? NO
Are we protected from every possible attack? NO.

The disciples suffered by fleshly standards. They too would have said,

“The Lord was their strength and shield.”

When we say the Lord is our strength and shield,
we are calling Him into our life’s experiences.

Walking with Him is far better than any possible outcome we achieve without Him.

Additional encouragement here!

Go for it!

2011-10-25T07:00:00.000-07:00

Tuesday's Quotes

Whispers of I love you.

2011-10-24T06:34:00.000-07:00

It's just shy of a year since I began my "Giving Thanks" journey with Ann and her loyal champions of GRATITUDE. As I look back on that very first post I clearly remember wondering if I would be able to sustain the ritual.

This journey, as Ann states, has not only opened the eyes of my heart but kept me more attuned to the ways in which

He whispers...

I LOVE YOU!

This last week I set out to just capture images with my cell phone where I had a 'pause of thanksgiving'.

The hightlights of my week are as follows:

#139-148

Children that still love to play dress up.
Taking my sweet Betty for a day out on the town
Rushing to get that gallon of milk only to see the most beautiful leaf EVER!
Laughter piping from my (teen) kids as they rifled through the dress up box.
Confident, Spirit inspired prayer melodically pouring from my dear husband over our baby (18yo) girl
The crunch of leaves as I lazily meandered through a farm pondering the stories that old barn could tell
Pincurling sweet Bettys hair
Buying PUMPKINS
Watching a classic B&W movie with my hubby
Hanging out with a bosom buddy sister friend and hearing her adventures

Almost stepped over. In a parking lot lying perfectly. I
stopped and gave thanks!

Ok so I borrowed this from last year but it's so pretty I can't help
myself.

Taking my sweet mum in law to an estate sale. She
shopped I walked around.

Mother in Law still searching for treasures while I walk
about enjoying His creation

SPIRIT WEEK

Would you still be my friend if I looked
like this, day.

Twin day

Sophmore Gold day. Sisters
gold lame pants and fun old sweater.

Sweet Betty

Just beyond the Bend

2011-10-21T07:13:00.000-07:00

I love how the Gypsy Mama's released a following to just write in 5 minutes flat. Unscripted, unedited, fresh raw words tapping into the screen.

Write for 5 minutes flat – no editing, no over thinking, no backtracking.
Link back here and invite others to join in.
Most importantly: leave a comment for the person who linked up before you – encouraging them in their writing!

OK, are you ready? Give me your best five minutes on:

Today's word

BEYOND:

Just beyond the bend, Just beyond the turn, just beyond my reach, THEN I will learn?

Just in the distance, Just one more lap Just a little longer....it's only a trap!

One more pound loss, one more dollar earned, one more load of laudry, AGAIN I will be spurned

One more friend, maybe a husband, or a new car, maybe a child or two I'm sure it will take me far.

Just beyond the bend, Just beyond the turn, just beyond my reach how my stomach churns.

Lord help me look here help me look now

help me to stop and to my knees bow

You've given so much...........

(Times up maybe someone can finish it for me?? I would love it! Maybe there is much more to add?)

STOP:

MY HERE AND NOW!

http://emylyn.blogspot.com/

Breathless

2011-10-20T06:45:00.000-07:00

1,000 Word Thursday

EMYLYN

Vanilla Rooibos

2011-10-19T05:37:00.000-07:00

A friend questioned

(over nice steaming hot SB Vanilla Roobois tea),

at a local coffee house...

How can you tend to filling everyone’s cup if your pitcher is empty?

Oh I’ve heard such analogies before but I love how when your heart is ready, God speaks volumes to it through simple words in a coffee house.

I’ve always been a high achiever. It’s called survival where I come from.
I AM FROM

I could either swim with the tides of addiction, dysfunction, abuse, anger, loneliness and rejection or fight.

At first I did not realize that the God of the universe was my strength and the light to my path or that His protective hand was cupped around me.

But in the years to come it became very apparent and He became the very breath to which I breathe.

Fast forward to marriage, children, ministry and career.

The driving need to parent the way I was not parented,
To be the ideal wife and having no idea how,
Minister to the hurting. A ministering like I never experienced before Him who knows my inward parts.
Provide for my family as I had not been provided for. As well as succeed in a thriving career.

I realized as I poured out words on Monday’s blog… FOR THE DRY AND WEARY

that guilt has been whispering in my ear and I WAS LISTENING! Wanting to do do do, pursue pursue pursue, succeed, perform.........

~~~~

Being still is not my strong suit.

Waiting is not my fortitude.

PATIENCE IS NOT INHERENT!

~~~~

However God is!!

The last two years have been ALL about being still, waiting, patience and listening.

For much of it I have viewed as being a lesson.
With “coffee house insight” my eyes opened, renewed to a new perspective.

Could He be filling my pitcher afresh?

I'm still in process. I will need to approach this in blogs to come but I do know that EVERY experience in life needs to be experienced to it's fullness. Even pain and discomfort...holding hands with it on bended knee.

Not being fearful because He does not give us a spirit of fear.

But with expectation knowing that He has our best interest at heart.

Though I may be still
God is at work.
Doing a new work in me as I allow.

I am 'ministering' to my family currently. Faithful husband, Awesome teens and two lovely inlaws He has entrusted me with.

Enjoying a slower pace with tea...

I WILL wait and He WILL renew my strength; I will mount up with wings like eagles, I WILL run and not be weary, I WILL walk and not faint.

The tiny things matter

2011-10-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

Tuesday's Quotes

Laughtershock

TLC

World of color

You is kind. You is smart. You is important

Your high calling

Oregon saturated

Vigorous freshness

Vivid…

A girl and her grandma

Welcome to Holland @aaronshust

Courage in the broken places

Lucy, Carol and Bob

Dog diary vs cat diary

Homeward bound

It happens in a B L I N K

When you can't sleep

To be thought a fool

I AM WOMAN

Roar…

Alright I'm totally dating my self here. I wish something spiritually slick would have come to mind first but I've promised myself for the season of 5 minute Friday's I would stay true to the rules (i'm generally not a good rule follower:) and stay true to the rules, I will do!

Here it is....

I am woman, hear me roarIn numbers too big to ignoreAnd I know too much to go back an' pretend'cause I've heard it all beforeAnd I've been down there on the floorNo one's ever gonna keep me down again

Oh yes I am wiseBut it's wisdom born of painYes, I've paid the priceBut look how much I gainedIf I have to, I can do anythingI am strong (strong)I am invincible (invincible)I am woman

Yes that is Helen Reddy's 1970's hit I AM WOMAN. There was a time I would chant those words with pride, I would wear them like a soldier wears his medal proud.

Fast forward 20 something years..eh hem.. and I have a completely different take on what a woman truly is. The world has colorfully painted a picture of what women should look like in today’s world. Magazines are shouting from the rooftops about how we can ‘have it all’.

It's not true, It's smoke and mirrors!

Yes I am strong but I'm not invincible, I'm steady but not a tower, I am wise but it's the Holy Spirits wisdom imparted to me and HE paid the price...not I.

“She speaks with wisdom and faithful instruction is on her tongue.”

St. Maarten

Twenty Twelve

Procrastination

Hello, my name is Robin

Open…

Matthew 18:4

Our Christmas story

Stashing

With all your might

Hospitality, a matter of the heart not the architecture.

Your House is Only as Big as Your Hospitality

Infinite God becomes infant

Heart of Christmas

I'll be home for Christmas

His first Christmas in Heaven

Just the way He wants it

The beautiful people

Pigment on the canvas

A mother's love

Behind the scenes

Each of us an Innkeeper

Purposeful Gratitude

Pursed lip breathing

Love

Christian Culture snob

Of Death and Dying…

God’s way of taking care of us

A Crazy Lady’s Guide to Black Friday

Proverbs 32 1/2 Woman

Running the race

Be Yourself

It's ok to be wrong

Warm embers of sweet freedom!

Closely knitted to my heart

Turtley

The Power of our Faith

We ALL make them!

Melting under His influence

I am From Him

Delicious Autumn

The Shelter of the Most High

A Secret Place in God means…

A Secret Place in God is a place…

Visual acuity

The sky is the limit

A mother's love

Princess for a day

I've thrown my lot in with Him.

Go for it!

Whispers of I love you.

Just beyond the Bend

Breathless

I am woman, hear me roar
In numbers too big to ignore
And I know too much to go back an' pretend
'cause I've heard it all before
And I've been down there on the floor
No one's ever gonna keep me down again

Oh yes I am wise
But it's wisdom born of pain
Yes, I've paid the price
But look how much I gained
If I have to, I can do anything
I am strong (strong)
I am invincible (invincible)
I am woman