Female in Motion

Fantastic February

2012-01-30T19:55:00.005-06:00

And so it begins! Today is the start of Fantastic February with Female in Motion. Okay, I know I'm a couple of days early, but I just couldn't wait! Together we're going to make a month-long journey to improve our walk with God and get rid of some old, bad habits.

Here's what we're celebrating:

It's Leap Year. There are 29 days in February this year. Let's use each one to improve ourselves and our relationship with Jesus. Every day, write down something positive about yourself. Start each sentence with "I am." We are going to get rid of that nasty, negative voice rattling around in our heads, and replace him (or her!) with good, positive thoughts.

It's my birthday month. I will turn 50 in February. That's right! Book me, Dan-O, I'm 5-0. I'm excited about what 2012 may hold. Every year that God gives me is a gift from Him, so I'm going to grab this one by the horns and party!

I'm giving away a prize! To celebrate Leap Year and my birthday, I'm going to give away a $50 Target gift card to one of my wonderful readers. All you have to do is participate. Write down an "I am" statement every day and at the end of the month, email it to me or private message me on Facebook. I promise not to share it with another soul. I'll put all the names in a hat and draw one as the winner on Monday, March 5.

You won't be doing this alone. I'm going to be right there with you. Each day, I will post my daily "I am" statement on Twitter and Female in Motion's Facebook fan page. If you're not on either of those, comment on this blog and I will email you every day. Included with my daily post will be an inspirational Scripture to help you get through the day. Let's cheer each other on and move forward in our faith.

I have battled negative voices in my mind since I was young. They began outside from another, but I picked up the mantra and continued to batter myself with insults. My favorites were "you're not good enough" and "nobody likes you anyway." After a lot of prayer, counseling and soul-searching, those thoughts are fading.

Insecurity is a very private problem. It's not something you discuss with friends over coffee or at a church social. But maybe that's a mistake. Maybe we should be talking about it openly and candidly. Those negative thoughts return once in a while. I have learned to ask myself, "Is this the truth? Is it based in reality?"

What do you replace those negative words with? How about "Even so." This is something I learned from Dayspring blogger Holley Gerth. Think about this. Would you ever dream of calling your son or daughter the same words you say to yourself? I thought not. You are a precious child of God. Claim your inheritance!

Jeremiah 31:3 (KJV)
The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.

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Female in Motion Exercise Update: I walked four miles last week and did two 30-minute Wii exercise workouts.

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Notable Quote:

"Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless."--Mother Teresa

Breathed By God

2012-01-23T19:10:00.006-06:00

My pastor related a story last week that really struck me. His mother taught all of her children (eight, in total!) to write by giving them a pencil and placing her hand over theirs. She guided their little hands along the paper, forming beautiful words. Those youngsters weren't actually writing, they were simply following the lead of their loving mother.

This sweet tale is a fitting parallel to how the prophets wrote the Bible. Faithful men of old were chosen by God to record His Word. God told them what to write. His Word is "theopneustos," a Greek word meaning "God breathed." Thus, the Scripture is divinely inspired.

Here we are, more than 2,000 years later, still talking about the words those men wrote. I believe that the Bible is alive; a living testament of God. These words have power and meaning and wisdom in every passage. It is a living love letter that God gave to each one of us.

I try to spend as much time as possible studying the Bible. It always seems, however, that the more I know, the more I don't know. In some ways, God's Word is very simple and straightforward. There are deeper meanings to it, though, so every time I read, I discover something new. His Word is like an abstract painting, from every angle, there are fresh perspectives.

Psalm 119:105 (KJV)
Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

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Next Monday is kickoff day for Fantastic February with Female in Motion! I want you to be part of this, so make sure to read every Monday's blog post. You'll have fun, I promise!

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Female in Motion Exercise Update: I walked two miles last week and did three 30-minute Wii workouts. The weather was pretty cold last week, but exercise outdoors really wakes you up!

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Notable Quote:

John 17:17 (KJV)
Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.

Fall On Your Knees

2012-01-16T18:18:00.008-06:00

I count on my knees. By that, I mean that I do a lot of things involving my knees: exercising, hauling laundry and groceries upstairs, scrubbing tubs and floors and loads of praying. (I'm Baptist, people!)

Growing up a tomboy, I did lots of sports and physical stuff. I did bike stunts, played tennis, soccer on both girls and boys teams, ran track, hiked and played powder puff football. Most of the years while my daughters were young, I spent on my knees playing and helping and staying on their level. All of these activities wreaked havoc on my poor old knees.

In the Bible, it speaks of King Solomon spending time on his knees, praying, with his hands lifted up to heaven. David and Daniel, the prophet, also worshipped this way. The book of Judges tells of the soldiers in Gideon's army bowing down on their knees to drink water before facing the walls of Jericho.

As I age, my knees have started to creak when I stand and give a little when I climb the stairs, but it's not a problem. Taking glucosamine and chrondroitin and exercising helps. I will continue to use my knees and be grateful for every day the good Lord gives me.

Philippians 2:10-11 (KJV)
That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

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Next month is Fantastic February with Female in Motion! Be sure to read every blog post in February. I'm going to have cool and life-changing activities and a big surprise giveaway. Don't miss it!

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Female in Motion Exercise Update: The odyssey has begun! On Monday, I ran .25 miles. On Tuesday, I walked .50 miles. On Wednesday, I walked a whole mile! On Thursday and Friday, the weather was freezing, so I did yoga and aerobics on the Wii. A good week, all told!

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Notable Quote:

"If you lose hope, somehow you lose the vitality that keeps life moving, you lose that courage to be, that quality that helps you to go on in spite of all."--Martin Luther King, Jr.

Little Faith vs. Great Faith

2012-01-09T18:24:00.007-06:00

I've been a Christian for a long time. When I was young, I got so excited about doing "projects" for God and for my church. When a few of them didn't turn out exactly as I had envisioned, I was sorely disappointed. Missionaries from exotic foreign lands visited our congregation and my emotions ramped up again, then just as quickly died out. I was immature in my faith.

Charles Spurgeon, a British Baptist preacher in the late 1800's, wrote: "Strong faith, like Mary, sits still in the house. Little faith would convert the world before the sun went down, and she grows faint because her zeal has not fulfilled her wish. Little faith must pluck the promises while they are green. She is not content to wait till they become ripe and mellow."

Seems like I've seen a lot of people come through our church. They join in, get excited about service and spend hours working in ministry. Within a few months or years, though, they seem to fade away. Perhaps they had a fight with another member, or felt they weren't appreciated for all their contributions. Whatever the case, their faith fizzled.

Little faith needs instant gratification.
Great faith is patient.

Little faith needs constant monitoring.
Great faith is mature.

Little faith is mercurial, her moods are an emotional roller coaster.
Great faith is steady.

When the Centurion pleaded with Jesus to speak a word of healing for his servant, the Lord said He had not seen "so great faith, no, not in Israel." I have found that my spiritual maturity has increased when I study and meditate on His Word, spend time in personal prayer and give to others without expectations. Sometimes I am more successful than others. I keep my eyes on Him, and off everyone around me. God rewards the effort.

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Female in Motion is preparing for big things in February! Read every blog entry next month for a lot of life, inspiration and an awesome prize. It will be a Fun February with Female in Motion!

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Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did four 40-minute Wii workouts last week, including one session of jogging 1.5 miles. I had to lay off most of the jogging last week, because I increased my workouts and pulled a thigh muscle. Big things to report next week!

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Notable Quote:

"Faith can move mountains, but don't be surprised if God hands you a shovel."--Author Unknown

Protect Your Valuables

2012-01-02T19:52:00.011-06:00

Matthew 13:44-46 (KJV)
44 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field.
45 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls:
46 Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it.

In my blog post last week, I set a few goals for myself in 2012. One of these was to get to know God better by spending time with Him. We discussed this "treasure" scripture in Matthew yesterday in Sunday School. As part of this 2012 journey, I asked myself some questions.

What is the biggest joy in my life? Some might say family, hobbies or even that first cup of coffee in the morning. The Hubster likes to come home, put on sweats, lie on the couch with a kitty cat beside him and watch TV. This activity makes him content, but it is not the biggest joy in his life.

Others will only be happy when they make partner in their law firm, bank their first million, or write a best-selling novel. I saw a news story once about a woman who had 37 plastic surgeries to make herself look exactly like a Barbie doll. She knew this achievement would give her peace. What am I looking to achieve in this life? What is my treasure?

I own a few things of value, a modest home, two reasonably-priced cars and some cats of questionable lineage. What is most valuable to me? Is it the new Kindle Fire the Hubster got me for Christmas? Maybe that mattress set we bought a year ago? All of these things make my life nice and comfortable, but is comfort really my highest priority?

God never promised us a carefree life. He did promise us "joy unspeakable and full of glory." It seems as if our culture puts an artificially high price on comfort. What is more important, my comfort or God? I want to follow God's plan for my life, even if that means I won't have it easy every minute. I sure do like His scenario in the long run.

Think about it...what's in your treasure chest?

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Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did three Wii Fit Plus workouts last week and ran three miles. The yoga and strength training is addictive and seems to be helping my posture and stress levels.

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Notable Quote:

Matthew 6:19-21 (KJV)
19 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:
20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:
21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

2012, Here I Come!

2011-12-26T18:50:00.009-06:00

As you know, I don't make New Year's resolutions. (I wrote about it here: http://www.fim-carol.blogspot.com/2008/01/resolutions-schmezolutions.html.) It's a self-defeating and guilt-producing practice for me. So I simply say that in 2012 I will love God more than last year. Following are my tips for keeping my resolution on track next year:

Get a plan. In order for me to love God more in 2012 than 2011, I want to get to know Him better. (You can put your own idea in there.) I'm going to start slow by adding time spent with Him into my daily/weekly/monthly schedule. If I start slowly, I can build up to a thundering crescendo!

Find a life verse. My 2012 Life Verse is: 1 Peter 5:10 "But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you."

Spend time with the Savior. I am building up my prayer time, adding minutes in the morning during my devotions. Maybe I can slip more into my day, too, during exercise and household chores. Studying the Bible will give God ways to reveal Himself to me. God honors the time I spend with His people, so I'll find ways to do that. I'll blog more about this as the year progresses.

Forgive yourself. There are times when I'm not going to meet my goals, or days when I forget to pray or study my Bible. Hopefully those days will be few and far-between. When I do falter, I'm going to be gentle on myself. I will talk to God about it and then I will forgive myself, as hard as that is for me to do.

Whatever you decide to do in 2012, resolution or not, I pray that you will remember that God is beside you. You'll never be in the dark with the Light of the World by your side. Do your best...and don't beat yourself up when you don't.

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Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did three 40-minute Wii workouts last week. I received an MP3 player from The Hubster for Christmas, so I hope to start road-running soon. I'll keep you posted.

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Notable Quote:

"We spend January 1 walking through our lives, room by room, drawing up a list of work to be done, cracks to be patched. Maybe this year, to balance the list, we ought to walk through the rooms of our lives... not looking for flaws, but for potential."--Ellen Goodman

Santa's Naughty vs. Nice Game

2011-12-19T15:20:00.011-06:00

Psalm 33:5 (KJV)
He loveth righteousness and judgment: the earth is full of the goodness of the LORD.

"He knows if you've been bad or good, so be good for goodness' sake!" This line from the song "Santa Claus is Comin' to Town" plays often during this time of the year. What's the big deal about being good, anyway? Santa's game is pretty simple: if you're good, you get nice gifts. If you're naughty, you get coal.

God doesn't play that game. God is good all the time, regardless of your behavior. Blogger Jon Acuff says, "When you doubt God's goodness, you doubt the very core of who He is." You see, God IS goodness. Not "God acts good." He actually created goodness. He is goodness, personified.

The steady, warm glow of God's goodness is all around us. I find His integrity in every sunset, child's smile and time spent with family. God's goodness does not need to be packaged in tinsel and bows to be made more attractive. It simply radiates the joy of His righteousness.

This goodness endures, as well, long after Santa's presents are broken and discarded. Take a moment this week to reflect on the goodness of God and His many blessings to you. Wrap up in the joy of His presence. Merry Christmas!

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Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did three 40-minute Wii workouts last week, including running 1.5 miles twice. Tough to fit in exercise this time of year.

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Notable Quote:

"Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can."--John Wesley, Christian theologian

The Perfection of Imperfection

2011-12-12T20:58:00.004-06:00

2 Corinthians 12:9 (KJV)
And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

The headline on my blog reads, "This blog contains the rantings of a middle-aged crazy lady, sharing her imperfect life to show others God's perfect love." It's the truth. My life is a long way from perfect. God loves me anyway. That's how I know that He is real.

When Buddhist monks paint, they leave a tiny spot blank somewhere on the canvas. They make it imperfect on purpose. Of course, nobody's perfect. Not even close. Only God is God. We are all vulnerable, weak, imperfect. That way, when God works through us, we'll know that all our accomplishments are not under our own steam. It's God's doing.

A wise man said, "let go and let God." If we worked a little less at making everything just so, God might be able to do something really special through us. We could be a conduit of His love and mercy. I would much rather be used of God, than all used up.

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Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did four disco aerobic workouts last week. The part for my Wii finally arrived last weekend. I got right back on it this morning!

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Notable Quote:

"Jesus--He came not to a throne, but to a manger. He lived not as a king, but as a servant. He chose not a kingdom, but a cross. He gave not just a little, but everything."--Holley Gerth, Dayspring writer

Fitting in God

2011-12-05T19:31:00.005-06:00

I stood in front of an open refrigerator, surveying the remnants of Thanksgiving dinner. It contained a couple of spoonfuls of stuffing, a dab of mashed potatoes and three asparagus stalks. Not enough to make a meal out of, these leftovers. That made me think about God. Yeah, I know...I'm weird.

God used to get the lion's share of the leftovers in my life. I was very busy, hustling here and there. I tried to squeeze Him in between housework, shuttling kids and work. An exhaled request for help, a prayer request for a sick friend, a verse or two of Scripture before bed was all I could spare.

And then I realized it wasn't enough. I wanted a grown-up relationship with God. I wanted my faith to mature. My Heavenly Father is not some vending machine to shove a few coins in and get your latest wishes fulfilled. Maybe it was something I read.

Jon Acuff is a Christian blogger that I read daily. In 2008, he wrote a post about how some people try to squeeze God into(or out of)their lives. You can read that post here: http://www.jonacuff.com/stuffchristianslike/2008/04/113-booty-god-booty/

Yes, the title is "Booty, God, Booty." Jon says that we tend to drop God off or leave Him at home when His lifestyle and ours don't sync up. Ouch! I want to do more than shoehorn the Savior into Sunday morning and leave Him there on the pew all week long. I've got to LIVE MY FAITH every day of my life.

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Female in Motion Exercise Update: My Wii camera broke, so while waiting for the new part to arrive I did four 30-minute aerobic workouts last week. Good old Richard Simmons to the rescue!

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Notable Quote:

"I know you’ve probably heard this a million times before from other Christian writers, but next time you transition between two parts of your day, think to yourself, “Did I just go booty, God, booty?” If nothing else, it’s a fun phrase to say."--Jon Acuff, author of Stuff Christians Like

The Man That Stood Among the Myrtle Trees

2011-11-28T19:18:00.007-06:00

The Old Testament prophet Zechariah had a dream one night. In it a man appeared, riding a red horse. He stood among the myrtle trees and gave a warning to the nation of Israel in one word: repent.

Biblical prophecy sometimes seems murky or difficult to discern, but the story of the Lord visiting Zechariah in a dream is straightforward.

Zechariah 1:8-10 (KJV)
8 I saw by night, and behold a man riding upon a red horse, and he stood among the myrtle trees that were in the bottom; and behind him were there red horses, speckled, and white.
9 Then said I, O my lord, what are these? And the angel that talked with me said unto me, I will shew thee what these be.
10 And the man that stood among the myrtle trees answered and said, These are they whom the LORD hath sent to walk to and fro through the earth.

The prophet knew immediately that the man among the myrtle trees was the Lord Himself. Israel was in disarray and he recognized this man as a warrior, sent to protect His nation, but also to set it right. He warned of judgment for the sins of the people.

I love the imagery that "the man that stood among the myrtle trees" evokes. The Lord is quiet and calm, yet strong and sure. There is no denying His authority. When my life is getting way too chaotic, my prayer life is suffering and my priorities are askew, I lift my eyes to meet the gaze of that man.

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Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did five 40-minute workouts last week. Yes, even though it was a holiday! Jogging: three times at 2 miles each, aerobics: five times at 10 minutes each, yoga and strength training: two times at 15 minutes each, balance games: five times at 15 minutes each. Because of the steady exercise, I managed to lose a pound last week.

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Notable Quote:

"Some people do not like to hear much of repentance; but I think it is so necessary that if I should die in the pulpit, I would desire to die preaching repentance, and if out of the pulpit I would desire to die practicing it."--Matthew Henry

Sitting at the Kid's Table

2011-11-21T20:07:00.009-06:00

I used to belong to a very exclusive secret club. Well, not so much of a secret, as merely unknown. I was a member in good standing of...the kid's table.

My family tried to spend Thanksgiving with their families in Hale, MO. This tiny village in north central Missouri contained the clans of both my parents, so it was relatively (ha!) easy to split time between the two. Turkey Day festivities included a huge feast at both homes. As always, there were two tables, the adult table and the kid's table.

We had fun, my cousins and I, sitting at the kid's table, but we always dreamed of being somewhere else, being called to the big table, just like a rookie pitcher being called up from the farm team to the big league game. I wanted to sit at my place with the adults, enjoying the meal, jokes, memories and each other.

One day there will be a great feast in Heaven, and on that day, everyone will gather around that big table, and our Heavenly Father will sit at the head, and our Lord and Savior will sit on His right side. We will take our places at that table. And we will eat our fill.

Happy Thanksgiving!

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Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did four 40-minute workouts last week. Jogging two times @ 2 miles each, yoga and strength training twice @ 20 minutes each, aerobics and balance games four times @ 20 minutes each. Not much movement on the bathroom scale, but my balance, posture and muscle tone is improving.

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Notable Quote:

Revelation 19:17 (KJV)
And I saw an angel standing in the sun; and he cried with a loud voice, saying to all the fowls that fly in the midst of heaven, Come and gather yourselves together unto the supper of the great God;

Heavenly Heritage

2011-11-14T19:45:00.006-06:00

Ezekiel 36:26 (KJV)
26 A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.

I had a happy childhood. My folks loved each other and their four kids. I always knew my parents loved me and put their family first. Before the sappy-o-meter hits overload, I'll tell you my youth wasn't perfect, but it was a lot better than others.

Some kids didn't grow up in a warm, loving home. They had problems. Lots of them. And when they grew up, they had a lot of overcoming to do. They had two choices, rise above their raising, or use it as an excuse to blame all their bad choices on.

When you ask Jesus to come into your heart, there is a change, a chance to start over. Even if your pedigree was less than perfect, you are now part of God's heavenly heritage. Don't let your past make you bitter. Move forward with the proud assurance that you are part of a new family, a royal dynasty.

Does that mean you have to forget all about the evil that was done to you? With God's help, you can put the past behind you and move forward towards your God-given destiny. There may be someone out there who needs the word of blessing that only you can provide. Don't be stingy, put on your royal robes and get out there!

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Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did five 40-minute workouts last week. Jogging: three times @ 2 miles per session, aerobics and balance games: five times @ 20 minutes each, and yoga and strengthening: two times @ 10 minutes each. My abs are feeling the yoga.

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Notable Quote:

"Life can only be understood backward, but it must be lived forward."--Soren Kierkegaard

Beautiful

2011-11-07T19:37:00.007-06:00

Carole King has a way with words. The Hubster and I attended a tribute concert to her epic album "Tapestry" last weekend. We had a ball, enjoying the great music with good friends. This was one of the first albums I purchased with my babysitting money, way back in the day.

One of the songs Julie Sutton, the featured soloist, sang was "Beautiful," and the lyrics really touched my heart.

Beautiful
Carole King

You've got to get up every morning
With a smile on your face
And show the world
All the love in your heart

Then people gonna treat you better
You're gonna find, yes you will
That you're beautiful as you feel

That's what I'm talking about. That's the point I want Female in Motion to get across. We are as beautiful as God made us. And beautiful is a choice. Our Heavenly Father knew exactly how to craft us into a rare and unique jewel. And, because we are all one-of-a-kind, we sparkle like no other.

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The Female in Motion mission statement contest is over. And the winner is...Jacque Ramirez! Congrats, Jacquita! Your $25 Target gift card is in the mail. Thanks for being a faithful reader, and thanks to all my faithful readers for your comments and critiques. They were all so helpful and much appreciated. If you enjoyed this contest, let me know, and we'll do it again.

And now, here's the latest evolution of the Female in Motion mission statement:

Female in Motion was created to be an encouragement, to promote restoration and recovery, truth and significance. We want to live our own God-given mission, because in Christ's eyes, we are enough.

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Female in Motion Exercise Update: I jogged six miles last week, did five 20-minute aerobic and balance workouts and two 10-minute yoga and stretching sessions. On recommendation of a veteran marathoner, I am diversifying my exercise regimen to avoid burnout and injuries.

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Notable Quote:

Psalm 139:14 (KJV)
14 I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.

Boo!

2011-10-31T20:29:00.004-05:00

It's Halloween and that means the kids are going door-to-door collecting their Snickers bars. I'm not much into dressing up, but I do like to stay home and pass out candy. When I was growing up, I trick-or-treated for hours, filling up a paper grocery sack full before heading home and bartering for chocolate with my little brother, the candy vacuum.

I was afraid of a lot of things back then: the dark corner of our basement, roller coasters and monsters. Our church youth group would make a trip to Wichita every October to go through at least one haunted house. I don't know why I spent my babysitting money to let people scare the stuffing out of me. It's pretty tricky to run with your head down the whole way through a haunted house, but I managed to pull it off every year.

One thing I know for sure...fear is a thief. It robs me of space in my mind and peace in my heart. Panic is paralyzing, keeping me from moving forward in life's journey. A close relationship with God isn't possible with awful anxiety flooding my psyche. I choose to push all fear out of me and replace it with the all-powerful love of Christ.

Deuteronomy 20:3-4 (KJV)
3 And shall say unto them, Hear, O Israel, ye approach this day unto battle against your enemies: let not your hearts faint, fear not, and do not tremble, neither be ye terrified because of them;
4 For the LORD your God is he that goeth with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to save you.

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One more week before the $25 Target gift card will be awarded to one lucky Female in Motion reader. Post a comment now on my blog post "What Am I Doing Here?" or on my FIM Facebook page. You could do all kinds of damage at Target with 25 bucks!

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Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did four 20-minute workouts with aerobics and balance games, then followed up with eight miles of jogging last week, at two miles per day. I am gaining confidence every week with my increased exercise. Interesting how that works!

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Notable Quote:

"Hold on, man. We don't go anywhere with "scary," "spooky," "haunted," or "forbidden" in the title."--From Scooby-Doo

My God is Big Enough

2011-10-24T19:42:00.008-05:00

When some people find out I am a Christ-follower, they like to challenge me, paint me into a corner, spiritually speaking, to try and shake my faith. A little girl asked me why God took her brother. A rich man said he didn't need anything and an old man said his life was too dirty to clean up. I don't have all the answers, or even some of them. God does.

1. My God is big enough to overcome your god. Who you gonna serve? Money? Fame? Power? Nothing on earth is bigger than God. When all that other stuff goes away and it's just you, alone in your room at night, God is there...whispering to your heart. He loves you and wants you, even with no makeup!

2. My God is big enough to answer your unbelief. His specialty is answering the really tough questions, like "why am I here?" and "why do You let bad things happen?" Think God is something silly that weak people hang on to when they're in trouble? Try sitting in that foxhole by yourself. When the bombs of life are blasting overhead, I want God on my team.

3. My God is big enough to withstand your anger. Go ahead. Let Him have it. I was so angry after my dad died. Hurt and upset with God for taking such a good man so early, I poured out my anger and frustration on Him in prayer. He took all that emotion and replaced it with the peace that passes all understanding.

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Last call for comments on Female in Motion's mission statement! If you leave a comment on my blog post "What Am I Doing Here?" or post a message on my Facebook page, you will be entered to win a $25 Target gift card. The drawing is on Monday, Nov. 7, 2011.

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Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did four 30-minute workouts last week, consisting of aerobics, balance and core work and jogging. Racking up six miles of jogging last week felt good and I want to do more. This week, my goal is to increase the workouts to 40 minutes per.

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Notable Quote:

Exodus 34:6 (KJV)
"And the LORD passed by before him, and proclaimed, The LORD, The LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth."

Old Book/New Book

2011-10-17T19:33:00.009-05:00

"Turn to page number 769 in the new hymnal," said the song leader last Sunday.

The members of our congregation collectively grabbed the book and thumbed through. The visitors, however, looked bewildered.

"Which one's the new one?"

"The red one."

"Uh...they're both red."

And so they are. Since receiving the new hymnals last year, we still refer to the old ones on the odd occasion. For people who attend our church regularly, we know how to tell the song books apart. Okay, the women have it a little easier. The old hymnals were more of a "burgundy," while the new ones are more "coral." Guys don't do subtle shades.

There are a lot of songs in the new hymnals. We enjoy trying them all out. Kind of like when I accepted Christ as my Savior. I became a new person. Everything in my life was renewed and I began to live for Him.

There's nothing wrong with the old song books. They were comfortable, like your old life. Maybe too comfortable. Our old selves had a lot of bad habits, bad thoughts, bad deeds. Are you walking around with a God-sized hole in your soul? Fill it up with the real deal.

Colossians 3:9-10 (KJV)
Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds;
10 And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:

***

Don't forget! You have a chance to win a $25 Target gift card, simply by giving me your feedback on last week's blog post, "What Am I Doing Here?" I am talking specifically about my attempt at a Female in Motion Mission Statement. What do you think of it? Diamond in the rough or fool's gold? You have until Monday, November 4, 2011, to weigh in on this website or my Facebook page. Get your name in the pot!

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did four workouts last week with 15 minutes of aerobics each day, plus 7 total miles jogged. Hanging in there!

***

Notable Quote:

2 Corinthians 5:17 (KJV)
17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

What Am I Doing Here?

2011-10-10T18:34:00.015-05:00

Mission statements. It's something that most businesses and serious endeavors spend time crafting. They consult focus groups and form search committees, looking for the perfect words.

Hyundai: "New thinking. New possibilities."

Bank of America: "Helping set opportunity in motion."

Bayer Pharmaceuticals: "Science for a better life."

All. So. Serious. And then there's me. I'm anything but serious. What am I doing thinking about crafting a mission statement? I want you all to know how very serious I take this whole blog thing. Something inside of me is urging to get out. And I'm not talking about anything from "Alien," that scary movie. Really, I just want to be clear about what I'm doing here.

You'll notice that the banner at the top of my blog reads: "This blog contains the rantings of a middle-aged crazy lady, sharing her imperfect life to show others God's perfect love."

That's the beginning of my thoughts on crafting a Female in Motion brand. Here is the first draft of my mission statement:

Female in Motion was created to be an encouragement to women and teen girls, to promote restoration and recovery, truth, significance, and to show them that it's okay not to be perfect. To know that the only thing that can make you feel whole and complete is a personal relationship with God. Only the Father can provide that flying-by-the-seat-of-your-pants freedom. This blog strives to stretch boundaries, be more than a little dorky, and fight the common Christian life. Females in Motion want to live their own God-given mission, not be labeled by anyone else. In Christ's eyes, we are enough.

I'm still working on it, but I hope this is a step in the Father's direction. Please do me a favor and put your feedback in the comments section. If you do, I will put your name in a drawing for a $25 Target gift card. The winner will be announced on Monday, November 7, 2011, on this blog and Female in Motion's Facebook page. A little early Christmas shopping moolah!

***

Momala's Book Club: I am currently reading a book that is a classic for writers everywhere: "On Writing" by Stephen King. Yeah, that guy. The first part of the book is a memoir, the rest is meat-and-potatoes on how to craft a story. He's a bit profane, practical, humble and helpful. If you're a fan of his work, it's worth the time. And if you're a writer, it's a must. Scribner Publishing. $10.88 on Amazon.com (paperback). Four-and-a-half out of five stars.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I jogged five times last week, logging 7.5 miles in total. Only lost a couple of pounds so far, but I'm increasing my endurance and hoping to build some muscles.

***

Notable Quote:

Ephesians 3:17-19 (KJV)
17 That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love,
18 May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height;
19 And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.

Selah

2011-10-03T20:14:00.007-05:00

The Psalms are peppered with this little five-letter word: selah. What does it mean? That's a good question.

Bible scholars have varied opinions. Some say it means "silence." Others think "stop" or "pause." Most agree that it is a Hebrew word, used at the end of a sentence. The skeptics call it "a nonsensical word." I prefer to see it as a song, a liturgical direction, meaning "to lift your voice."

No surprise here...I'm a choir nerd. Did my first solo in third grade, starred in musicals in junior high, sang my way through high school and college. When you spend three to five hours every day in music, that's your reference point. When individual voices in a choir are joined together, truly knit tight, it's a spiritual thing. Sounds cheesy, but I want to be in heaven's choir.

I watch "The Sing Off" on NBC this fall. It's on Monday nights, so I listen to it as I write my blog. An a capella singing competition, "The Sing Off" brings the best choir voices together and the results are heavenly.

When voices are lifted together in songs of praise to our Lord, it's more than special. It's supernatural. The Psalms are beautiful hymns that honor the Creator and His creation. Won't it be cool to hear them in heaven sung by a mighty choir? Can't wait!

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did four 20-minute aerobic workouts and ran 1.5 miles each on four days, so that equals six miles last week. I'm trying to increase the amount I jog every week. Working on rhythmic breathing, too.

***

Notable Quote:

Psalm 68:32 (KJV)
"Sing unto God, ye kingdoms of the earth; O sing praises unto the Lord; Selah:"

In Remembrance of Me

2011-09-26T18:36:00.010-05:00

On Sunday night, our church observed the Lord's Supper. We do this twice per year, around Rosh Hashannah and Passover. This observance is special to us and sacred. Is it always perfect in every way? Not even close.

The manner in which our church celebrates the Lord's Supper is probably different than how your church does it, and rightly so. We strive to honor the Lord with this event, as every other church. Symbolically, we use unleavened bread and pure grape juice. It works for us. We practice closed communion to be accountable to each other. It also works for us.

Sometimes I think, "Wouldn't it be nice if we tried..." or "maybe we could...", but then I remember that it's not about me. It's called "the Lord's Supper" for a reason. It's all about Him. It belongs to Him. So we should continue to do it...in remembrance of Him.

Luke 22:19-20 (KJV)
19 And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me.
20 Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you.

***

Momala's Netflix Movie Pick: The Hubster and I watched "Get Low" last weekend. Starring Robert Duvall, Sissy Spacek, Bill Murray and Lucas Black, this film is set in 1938 and based on a true story. A grouchy old curmudgeon decides to hold a funeral before he's dead. Powerfully acted, with great music and a strong plot. Not for the kiddos. Four out of five stars.

***

Congratulations to my friend, B.D. Tharp, author of "Feisty Family Values." This book won the 2011 Kansas Authors Club Coffin Memorial Book Award, which will be presented at the KAC State Convention in October in Coffeyville, KS. If you haven't read it yet, treat yourself to a copy at a Wichita bookstore or Amazon.com. ($25.95 hardcover)

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I jogged three miles last week. One mile per day/three days. It was a super-busy work week, and it looks as if this week will be as well. Exercise helps me to handle the stress, though, so I'm going to make it a priority.

***

Notable Quote:

"You are far too smart to be the only thing standing in your way."--Jennifer J. Freeman

Will You Still Love Me If My House Stinks?

2011-09-19T19:34:00.011-05:00

The Hubster celebrated his birthday on Saturday with a small party at home. It was a casual affair with just a handful of family in attendance. We ordered some food and a cake, so I didn't spend the day working in the kitchen. Instead, I spent the day obsessing over cleaning the house. Ugh!

I'm a Christ-Follower, but I'm far from perfect. That means that I have succeeded in some personal struggles and miserably failed in others. I care a lot about how others perceive me and my home, which is a reflection of me. Will it look nice, will they have a good time...am I good enough? Ouch, that's the sore spot.

It shouldn't matter to me whether others care or not. I don't have to be the best. Besides, family has to love you, regardless of how stinky your house is! Where does this Martha Mentality come from?

Luke 10:38-42 (KJV)
38 Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house.
39 And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his word.
40 But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me.
41 And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things:
42 But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.

That goes right back to works vs. faith. There's nothing I can do to earn my way to heaven. I want to be accepted. When I gave my heart to Him, I was accepted. Everyone wants to sit at the cool table at school. In heaven, everyone sits at the same table. Guess Who you get to set beside?

***

Momala's Book Club Pick: I'm reading the memoir of a friend and Cowley County Writers Guild member. Dr. Steve Swaim, D.V.M., wrote a warm, humorous collection of memories in "I Wanna See a Veterinarian." If you're an animal lover, you'll love this book! Available on Amazon.com for $17.95, paperback. Four out of five stars.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did one disco aerobic workout and jogged one mile per day for four days. Not too shabby!

***

Notable Quote:

"You sometimes see a woman who would have made a Joan of Arc in another century and climate, threshing herself to pieces over all the mean worry of housekeeping."--Rudyard Kipling

Never Forget

2011-09-12T16:19:00.009-05:00

Yesterday was the tenth anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attack on America. The Hubster and I were in Dallas, visiting our kids. In some ways, it seems like 9/11 was a long time ago, and in other ways, the pain feels fresh.

Ten years ago, it was an ordinary day. I had just returned from a workout at Curves and showered. My daughters were at school. The Hubster was at work. I turned on the TV to catch the news while I brushed my teeth...and the world stopped.

I was surprised to hear President Obama quote Psalm 46 in his speech at Ground Zero yesterday. It has always been one of my favorite scriptures and I turn to it often for comfort.

Psalm 46:1-3 (KJV)
1 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
2 Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;
3 Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah.

The United States has changed because of what happened. We no longer live in a happy, safe bubble. We are vulnerable. Since we can no longer count on our own strength, we have to look to the One who is stronger. God is our strength. Selah.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did two disco aerobic workouts and jogged three miles last week. Even though we ate out every meal this weekend in Dallas, I was able to lose another pound. Must have been all that walking around the huge hotel.

***

Notable Quote:

"We are sad, Father. For as the innocent are buried, our innocence is buried as well. We thought we were safe. Perhaps we should have known better. But we didn’t.
And so we come to you. We don’t ask you for help; we beg you for it. We don’t request it; we implore it. We know what you can do. We’ve read the accounts. We’ve pondered the stories and now we plead, 'Do it again, Lord. Do it again.'"--from the prayer, "Do It Again, Lord," by Max Lucado

She's a Dork, Part Deux

2011-09-05T18:34:00.013-05:00

My brother and I spent most summer afternoons at the Derby swimming pool when I was a kid. After I turned 9, Mom let us ride our bikes the six blocks. From June to September, we got dark as fudge brownies with chlorine-bleached hair. It was a common look among our Derby contemporaries.

Summer seemed to stretch out in front of us, an endless ribbon of fun and freedom. Mornings were spent in household chores and helping with freezing and canning produce, then we got our summer pool passes, changed into well-worn swimsuits, hopped on our Schwinns and headed out to the local pool. Our friends would meet us there to play Marco Polo, Motorboat and avoid the big boys that constantly tried to dunk us.

After returning home one afternoon, exhausted and water-wrinkled, Mom told us to hurry and get cleaned up. She had a surprise! My grandparents, aunt, uncle and cousins were coming over for dinner. I quickly showered and jumped into shorts and a t-shirt.

Walking down the hall from my bedroom, I could hear happy voices. Well, I could sort of hear voices. My ears were stopped up with pool water. Entering the living room, I had my head tilted, trying to shake the head congestion.

"I have ears in my water!" I announced to the group. Uh...whoops. The room erupted in laughter and I ran out with tears in my 9-year-old eyes. My sister found me sobbing into my pillow.

"Dad says to get out here."

I slowly made my way back. Sniffling, I stood in the doorway, trying to make myself as small as possible. My grandfather beckoned from across the room, opening his arms to me. I was in his lap in a blink, snuggled into his warm embrace. He was my safe place.

Our Heavenly Father's acceptance and love is like my grandfather's lap. He wants to soothe all our hurts and show us His perfect and ultimate care. When we confess our mistakes to Him, forgiveness flows over us like a freshly-laundered sheet. Wrap yourself in His Word and keep Him close during the agitation of this life.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did two disco aerobic workouts last week and jogged three miles with Wii Fit.

***

Notable Quote:

"Things could be worse. Suppose your errors were counted and published every day, like those of a baseball player."--Author Unknown

Camping Out

2011-08-29T16:31:00.027-05:00

My son-in-law, Derek, recently went on a bicycle camping trip. That's right, he packed everything he needed for a weekend camping trip and piled it on his bike. (His photo at right.)Talk about a challenge...he rode that loaded-down bike 30 miles to the campground. It's a good thing to be young, fit and a little bit wacky!

Seeing that bike fully loaded with all that stuff reminded me of camping trips The Hubster and I used to make to the Cowley County State Lake when we were first married. We were young and broke and enjoyed getting away for a night from our tiny apartment. We would pack a cooler with food, take a skillet and the pup tent and head down to the lake. Most of the time no one was there, which was nice. We hiked, fished and cooked hamburger patties and eggs.

Once our first daughter, Sarah, was born, we packed up her baby equipment and went camping. That was a bit more of an undertaking. Babies require lots of stuff, to put it mildly. It made the campsite look like the showroom at Babies R Us, but she looked so darn cute in those tiny hiking boots!

All those memories of camping got me to thinking about Moses and the children of Israel packing up their households in Egypt and heading out into the wilderness for 40 years of serious tent time. I'm good for a couple of days of roughing it, but I cannot imagine going without a hot shower or hair dryer for that long. And the food! I'm sure one of those Jewish momalas came up with "101 Ways to Cook Manna."

The point is, though, that they were learning obedience to God in that desert. The Lord led them with a pillar of cloud during the day and a pillar of fire at night. I'd be pretty happy for the pillar, I'm a lousy map reader. The Jews had no cause for fear, God was faithful during those long 40 years of wandering. Not that they didn't murmur, of course. Don't we all, when our Heavenly Father is trying to teach us something special?

***

Momala's Book Club Pick: I am re-reading "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen on my Kindle. My dear friend, Danice Sweet, and I were talking about this book (and film) the other night at dinner. We both talked about the various positive attributes of the dashing Mr. Darcy. The husbands just rolled their eyes. I think I know why women love Mr. Darcy so much. He actually admitted that he was wrong. What woman wouldn't love to hear those words? The book is available on Amazon.com for $10.58 in paperback. Four out of five stars for Old English language.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did two 30-minute aerobic workouts and ran one mile each on Monday, Wednesday and Friday last week. I really like the way jogging makes me feel. I never thought those words would come out of my mouth!

***

Notable Quote:

Exodus 13:20-22 (KJV)
20 And they took their journey from Succoth, and encamped in Etham, in the edge of the wilderness.
21 And the LORD went before them by day in a pillar of a cloud, to lead them the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light; to go by day and night:
22 He took not away the pillar of the cloud by day, nor the pillar of fire by night, from before the people.

As Is

2011-08-22T16:37:00.011-05:00

Driving home from church last week, I saw a car parked in a vacant parking lot. It was a nondescript white sedan with a red For Sale sign in the side window. No, I'm not in the market for a fine, low-mileage pre-owned sedan. Something made me pause, though. The sign said, "As Is."

You've seen that phrase before, I'm sure. "As Is" means that what you see is what you get. In this case, the early-90s sedan had a dented rear fender and four bald tires, not to mention whatever mysteries lay beneath the hood. This vehicle had seen better days, my friend.

When I talk to people about turning their lives over to God, some say they need to get themselves straightened out first. They have some dirt or imperfections in their lives; they want to tidy up a few loose ends. Perhaps they feel like their Heavenly Father won't accept them "as is." That condition is God's specialty, however.

He took a simple lump of clay and made it into a man, the father of nations. He took a shepherd boy and made him a king. He took a small-town know-it-all Kansas girl and made her into a Female in Motion. He can change your life, too, into something better than you ever imagined.

***

If you're into social networking, make sure to "like" my new Facebook page, "Female in Motion." I set it up so that you can read my blog entries and posts regarding my writing adventures. Thanks!

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did two aerobic workouts and jogged three miles last week. The boost in movement has netted me a two-pound weight loss. Go, you chicken fat, go!

***

Notable Quote:

1 John 1:9 (KJV)
"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

She's a Dork, Part 1

2011-08-15T18:58:00.011-05:00

It was September of my junior year in high school. I had dressed very carefully that day, a cute cap-sleeved t-shirt with French cut jeans. Leaving my English class, I entered the stairwell to go down to my locker. There he was. The object of my huge crush. "Mr. T" was headed up the stairs as I was coming down. I flashed my best smile and took a step towards him...and then I took a header.

In the coming months, I am going to be retelling my most embarrassing moments, simply for your delight. In my last blog entry, I promised to be more introspective and personal in my writing and I couldn't think of any better way than revealing my most humiliating moments. So enjoy, dear readers!

Lying at the bottom of the stairs, listening to the guffaws of various and assorted under- and upper-classmen, I had the chance to take stock of my relationship with Mr. T. He was a senior, varsity football player, and older brother of my own brother's best friend. And I had spoken to him once, briefly. Actually, it was just "hello." Okay, not even "hello," it was "hi."

I came to the utterly humbling realization that I had imagined the whole thing. It was completely contrived in my mind. There was no relationship. He barely knew who I was! While I had been planning our wedding, he hadn't even give a thought to asking me out. In fact, a week after my nosedive, he asked another girl from my mascot squad to go steady with him. The End.

Have you ever manufactured an entire relationship on looks alone and no substance? As humans, we tend to look at the packaging first, then sometimes, but not always, take the time to look deeper. Aren't you glad God doesn't do that? I sure am! Our heavenly Father knows all the deepest, most embarrassing secrets of our hearts and loves us anyway. Take the time to really get to know Him, it will be the best crush you've ever had.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did two 30-minute disco aerobic workouts last week and twice jogged a mile with the Wii Sports package. What's really cool is that until last week, I didn't have any idea that I could jog a mile without stopping to huff and puff and wheeze. I'm going to try for three miles this week and then, who knows? Maybe a 5K in another five years? Ha!

***

Notable Quote:

"I am not your friend. I am your parent. I will stalk you, flip out on you, lecture you, drive you insane, be your worst nightmare and hunt you down when needed, because I love you. When you understand that, I will know you're a responsible adult. You will never find someone who loves, prays, cares and worries about you more than me. This is my promise to you."--A Parent's Promise by Joel Felix

Happy Blog Day!

2011-08-08T17:34:00.012-05:00

This Saturday, August 13, 2011, marks the fourth anniversary of the birth of my blog. Time sure flies when you're writing a blog post every week! That equals 208 entries, 208 pithy titles, 208 exercise updates and 208 notable quotes, among other things. Hopefully, as my writing has grown and matured, my waistline has shrunk a bit.

Up until two years ago, I didn't really consider blogging as writing. I just thought I was having a little fun, writing about my exercising and trying to lose weight. Quickly, I realized that in between chronicling my workouts and calorie victories, I was actually writing. That was something that I thought I had put away a long time ago, when my girls were young.

The Hubster informed me that blogging was indeed writing and I was pretty good at it. "Thanks," I said, and then he hit me between the eyes with his next sentence. "What are you going to do about it?" "Well...hm...let me think about it."

In the ensuing two years, I have joined two writing clubs: the Kansas Writers Association and the Kansas Authors Club, formed a new writers group: the Cowley County Writers Guild, started a much-neglected novel about my favorite small town in Missouri, entered lots of contests, won third place in the KAC's annual contest, submitted several pieces to various magazines and websites, gotten one of them accepted, and given a speech at a church women's group. Talk about stepping out of your comfort zone!

All silliness aside, I believe that God has been dealing with my heart, speaking things to me. Things like: write more, tell others about Me, study My Word, you have a unique voice, you can do this. You know, crazy stuff like that. If you asked me four years ago what I thought would happen with this blog, my current reality would never have been on my radar screen. This proves the saying, God can use anyone to do His work.

Now on to my goals for the future:

1. Write more and get more introspective and funny.
2. Submit more.
3. Study His Word more.
4. Get more readers.
5. Get a literary agent.
6. Get an anthology of my inspirational blog posts published by somebody.

These goals may not happen in the next five minutes, five months or even five years, but I'm going to work hard to accomplish them, with God's help. In the mean time, I'll keep writing, if you'll keep reading.

***

Thanks so much to everyone who takes time out of their busy week to read my blog, even just once. And to you who read it every week, you are amazing, and I love you to pieces! You are all Females (and Males!) in Motion!!!

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I've done it again! I've gone and added something new to my workout routine. I did three disco aerobic workouts and jogged one mile each on Thursday and Friday. Take that, stupid weight plateau!

***

Notable Quote:

"Fill your paper with the breathings of your heart."--William Wordsworth

A Tale of Three Good Books

2011-08-01T19:33:00.011-05:00

Vacations are a great time to relax and see some new things. My favorite thing to do on vacation, (besides eating like crazy!), is reading. I love to read and would enjoy nothing more than a comfy chair under a shade tree with a ridiculously large stack of books. Okay, somewhere tropical with 24-hour free room service wouldn't be bad, either.

I managed to read three books in the last two weeks, partly because I was on vacation half of that time. Receiving a Kindle for Christmas from The Hubster has really made reading even more portable. Instead of packing three paperbacks in my suitcase, I threw my Kindle in my purse. (It currently holds 26 books.) These titles were so good, I couldn't wait to get back home and tell you all about them.

Momala's Book Club Pick #1: O, Pioneers! by Willa Cather, is a classic prairie tale about Swedish, Bohemian and French immigrant farmers in 19th century Nebraska. Although this book is not a new title, the main character is a strong, independent woman farmer who uses her considerable brains and determination to carve out a prosperous life in the plains of Nebraska. O, Pioneers! is a story of passion and perseverance. Think: Romeo and Juliet meets Little House on the Prairie. Four out of five stars. Book is in the public domain. Available in paperback from Amazon.com for $9.95.

Momala's Book Club Pick #2: Same Kind of Different as Me by Ron Hall, Denver Moore and Lynn Vincent, is a 2008 inspirational book that retells the story of a wealthy Texas couple that decide to "give back" by volunteering in a soup kitchen and get back a whole lot more than they give. Four out of five stars. Published by Thomas Nelson. Available in paperback from Amazon.com for $9.77.

Momala's Book Club Pick #3: The Help by Kathryn Stockett, is a popular current title, and for good reason. This is an incredibly good, touching story by a brand-new, first time author. Set in Jackson, Mississippi in the 1960's, this book centers on a group of black maids that serve the white families of the community. It also tells the story of several white members of the local Junior League. There are no good guys or bad guys, just real flawed people trying to make their way in an uncertain time. This story is funny and sad and sweet and real. I can't recommend it highly enough. Five out of five stars. Published by Berkley Books. Available in paperback from Amazon.com for $8.65.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did three aerobic workouts last week. It's a good thing I am getting back to my regular routine, because I gained three pounds from our time in San Diego. Good thing vacations don't happen often!

***

Notable Quote:

"Maybe I ain't too old to start over, I think, and I laugh and cry at the same time at this. Cause just last night I thought I was finished with everthing new."--spoken by Aibileen, a character in the book, The Help, by Kathryn Stockett

Golden Moments

2011-07-25T22:55:00.012-05:00

The Hubster and I had the privilege of spending our 30th wedding anniversary in San Diego, CA. This trip contained many golden moments that I wanted to bottle up and save for another day. I'm grateful to God for this crazy good blessing!

Serving in the U.S. Navy from 1976-1980, The Hubster was stationed in San Diego during the last two years of his tour. Our family did make a brief trip there in 2001, but he wanted to return and see this town at a slower pace. I think we accomplished that.

Sitting beneath a colorful umbrella, a good book in my lap, sand between my toes and my best friend by my side, I sat gazing at the Pacific Ocean yesterday. I reached for The Hubster's hand and we smiled. Thanks, God, for this beautiful moment.

We celebrated our anniversary with a special seafood dinner at an upscale La Jolla restaurant, Trulucks. From the oysters on the half-shell with pink peppercorn mignonette appetizer, the seared Hawaiian tuna and grilled halibut entrees, to the luscious cupcakes and French pressed coffee for dessert, we were royally spoiled. Our waiter, Alexander, was kind enough to take our photo to remember that moment. I am grateful for the picture, but that dinner will remain in my memory regardless. It was perfection. Thanks, God, for this beautiful moment.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did two aerobic workouts last week and we traipsed all over several San Diego museums. Looking forward to getting back to my regular exercise routine this week.

***

Notable Quote:

"I may forget a lot of things, but I'll never forget the way you look in that red dress."--The Hubster

Hymns for Hers

2011-07-18T18:59:00.011-05:00

"Turn your eyes upon Jesus
Look full in His wonderful face
And the things of earth
Will grow strangely dim
In the light of His glory and grace."

The words of this old British hymn, written in 1922 by Helen H. Lemmel, are some of the most heartfelt and compelling in praise of the Savior. This is one of my favorite hymns. I find myself humming it on days when I am stressed or sick or just out of sorts. It is so comforting to my soul.

I like to sing. It's something I've always done, starting when I was a mere tot and stretching up to the moment. The plays, programs, concerts and performances I have sung at are many and varied. But I always sang at church. It's something that is dear to my heart.

"Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus" is a congregational hymn that I first heard in my home church many years ago. Someone requested that I try it as a solo, because it suited my range. Since then, I have sung it many times, and the words still pierce me. One of the most precious times that I sang this hymn was at the bedside of my dear father, as his time on earth drew to an end.

Hymns are a wonderful way to praise God and to show our joy and appreciation to Him for the blessings He has provided. I believe that the Lord loves to hear His people sing songs about Him and for Him. Even if your voice isn't that great. So sing out, folks!

***

Happy 30th Anniversary to the sweetest man in the world...The Hubster! I can't believe that 30 years have passed. We're still going strong and looking forward to our future.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did four 30-minute disco aerobic workouts last week. It was nice to be back in the freshly-painted living room. There's a bigger area to spread out and really boogie!

***

Notable Quote:

"There is nothing in the world so much like prayer as music is."--William P. Merrill

He Spoke My Name

2011-07-11T15:31:00.019-05:00

John 20:16 (KJV)
16 Jesus saith unto her, Mary. She turned herself, and saith unto him, Rabboni; which is to say, Master.

She knew He was dead. She had watched the crucifixion. Mary followed Joseph of Arimathaea to the grave where He was laid. On the third day, she came with others to anoint the body with spices and found the stone had been rolled away. Mary supposed that someone had stolen His body and she wept. Oh, how she cried. And then, He spoke her name.

In that moment, when Jesus spoke Mary's name...she knew Him. She recognized His voice in an instant. It was unmistakable. His voice carried all the depth of the love that He felt for her. I have a feeling that we will all recognize His voice. We all have something deep inside of us that knows our Savior.

God spoke the names of many Bible saints, including Adam, Abraham and Sarah. He told Israel, "I have called thee by thy name and thou art mine." When the Father spoke the names of these people, it must have staggered them. It didn't stop when Bible times ended. God still speaks the names of His people and we need to be listening.

I feel like God is speaking to me...calling my name. He has laid on my heart that I must share with you my words and my heart. I know this, because I can't get away from it, can't get it out of my head. It's not like anything else before. It's not something that I asked for, or that I completely understand. He has spoken my name. And I must answer Him.

***

Momala's Book Club: I am re-reading "From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler" by E.L. Konigsburg. Published by Atheneum, this tween-aged book features two kids that run away from home to live in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. While there, they have lots of adventures and even solve a mystery. I have loved this book since I was a kid and highly recommend it. "Mixed-Up Files" won the 1967 Newbury Medal. Available on Amazon for $9.99 in paperback. Four out of five stars.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did four 30-minute aerobic workouts last week. Because we had the living room, dining room and kitchen painted last week, I also did a lot of furniture moving and toting and carrying. Whoosh!

***

Notable Quote:

John 10:27-28 (KJV)
27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:
28 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.

I Doubt It

2011-07-04T15:19:00.009-05:00

Matthew 14:28-31
"And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water.
And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus.
But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me.
And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?"

Doubt is one size fits all. It comes in many sizes, shapes and colors. Kind of like a Snuggie, I think. It covers and envelopes our bodies and spirits and hearts, shutting out the Light of the Savior. If we haven't dealt with doubt already in our lives, get ready. It's coming.

My big one is self-doubt. I don't think I can do anything, most of the time. That's how I know there is a God. Because without a truckload of prayer, Bible study and faith in God, I couldn't achieve any of my goals and dreams.

2 Timothy 1:7
"For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind."

Doubt is just another word for fear. Fear doesn't come from God. Fear comes from the devil. God is pleased when we fight against the fear of Satan. If we are doing something for God, don't let fear get the best of you. Do it anyway. Do it afraid.

***

Happy Independence Day! We set aside this day to honor our country and those who have fought so valiantly to protect its citizens and way of life. Let us always be grateful for their sacrifice and strive to maintain a worthy nation.

***

Momala's Book Club Pick: I am re-reading "Feisty Family Values" by B.D. Tharp. Every time I read this book, I find another nugget, treasure, meaty passage. What a privilege it is to know this author personally. She put her heart and soul into this work, and it shows. "Feisty" is published by Five Star Expressions, and is available at most area bookstores and at Amazon for $25.95 (hardcover) and $5.99 (Kindle edition). Four and a half out of five stars.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did three aerobic workouts this week, totaling 30 minutes each, and a 20-minute assortment of Wii sports, including hula hoop and step aerobics.

***

Notable Quote:

"Lord, how about I let you drive and I'll ride shotgun?"--spoken by Tillie, character in "Feisty Family Values" by B.D. Tharp, Kansas author.

That's My Girl!

2011-06-27T18:50:00.004-05:00

Last week's blog post on Father's Day reminded me how my folks praised me when I did something good. "That's my girl!" was soon replaced by "Attagirl!" My parents didn't heap praise on me willy-nilly. I had to earn it. When I did, they were effusive in their approval. It made me want to strive that much harder.

Although I was not the youngest child in my family, I was the smallest. My short legs didn't pump as fast as my siblings. I tried to keep up with my big sisters and my athletic brother. My parents called me Spunky because I never quit trying. (Eventually, they discovered that this trait was actually stubbornness.)

Do you suppose that God is looking down from Heaven, watching our efforts and thinking, "That's my girl?" I know for sure that He is on our side. Our Heavenly Father treasures us as His chosen children. Can't you just imagine God, our Savior, and the angels all jumping up and down and cheering us on as we strive to do our best here on earth? It makes me want to run a little harder. I love it!

***

Stop by the Kansas Writers Association's website soon, and you will see a blog post from your one and only Female in Motion! Yes, I will be posting columns on writing subjects there twice per month. This will give me an opportunity to stretch my boundaries as a blogger. Here's the link: http://kwawriters.org/?p=670

***

Momala's Book Club Pick: Billie Letts' first book, "Where the Heart is" was such a huge hit that they made a movie out of it with Ashley Judd and Natalie Portman. Now a seasoned author with four books under her belt, I was thrilled to read her second tome, "The Honk and Holler Opening Soon." The story centers on the rag-tag staff of a roadside diner in Sequoyah, OK. All of the characters are flawed: they have scars, skeletons and secrets. They also have one thing in common, each other. There is some bad language, some sensuality and one violent act. Three and a half out of five stars. Available on Amazon for $7.99 paperback.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did three aerobic workouts, one 20-minute Wii workout with my new "Fitness Coach," and The Hubster and I spent an hour Friday night battling each other in Wii bowling. Fun!

***

Notable Quote:

Matthew 12:18 (KJV)
"Behold my servant, whom I have chosen; my beloved, in whom my soul is well pleased:"

A Family Man

2011-06-20T19:58:00.007-05:00

I have some great memories of things my dad and I did together, both as a child and later in adulthood. He was a terrific dad, a devoted family man. He had four kids and always had time for us. I was a goofy tomboy, but he always said, "Attagirl, Spunky!" Yesterday was Father's Day, and I miss my dad.

Since he passed away in 2005, my life has changed a bunch. I've started writing again and became an empty-nester. I often wonder what he would think of my decisions or my life choices. He was a really good advisor, although he never gave opinions unless you asked. The Hubster and I liked to bounce things off of him, especially when we started our business.

My favorite memories of my dad are sitting on his lap on Sunday mornings. He would read the funnies to me and my job was to follow the words with my fingers. Later on, he would cook big breakfasts of pancakes and sausage or biscuits and gravy. He would tie an apron around me and call me his "assistant." During my junior high years, he bought a Honda motorcycle and we would make a doughnut run on weekend mornings, but only after a bit of a joyride.

It was hard on him when I became a teenager. He thought I shouldn't be growing up so fast, and I couldn't wait to get grown. We bumped heads some, but I always knew he loved me and was proud of me.

After I married and had kids, my favorite "dad memories" revolved around my kids and "Pa." Sarah and Rachel were his first grandkids and man, did he have fun breaking them in! How precious it was to watch him read them the Sunday funnies and cook big breakfasts together.

I had it easy when I was looking for a man to spend my life with, to raise a family with, to grow old with. I looked for someone like my dad. Happy Father's Day, Daddy!

***

The Hubster and I ate at a new restaurant last weekend. Wynn's Buffet is located at 2010 East Ninth Avenue in Winfield, KS. The food is American, buffet-style, but lots to choose from and all of it is fresh and hot. Their salad bar was full of tempting veggie mixes. Even the decor was fresh and crisp. Not to be missed were the hot rolls. Wow! I could eat myself sick on those. We plan to put Wynn's in our regular rotation.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I am back to full strength post-surgery and did four 30-minute aerobic workouts last week. Also, Sarah and Derek loaned us their Wii, so The Hubster and I are going to try out some of the exercise programs on there. I'll give you a full report.

***

Notable Quote:

Deuteronomy 6:5-7 (KJV)
5 And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.
6 And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart:
7 And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.

MacGyver, I Ain't!

2011-06-13T19:40:00.005-05:00

Summer time in small-town America means home renovation time. If you drive through Arkansas City, KS this week, you would see home owners roofing, landscaping and painting their properties. Weekend warriors would be out in force, complete with ladders, nail guns and hedge trimmers. Yes, most of the folks in our town know how to yield a hammer, paint brush and jigsaw. Except for us. Nope, we got no skills.

That's not to say that we don't know how to do stuff, we do. The Hubster and I are capable of doing a lot of stuff with our brains. We just can't wield an axe or a shovel. So instead of joining our neighbors at the local hardware store, we hire it done.

We had our little cottage painted this month. The painter we hired is a long-time family friend, and a gifted craftsman. Rick Hawkins' attention to detail is unparalleled. He worked quietly, steadily, thoughtfully.

"I wish I had your brains," he said to The Hubster and I.

"We wish we had your skills," we replied.

God gives each of us a ministry here on earth. We are equipped with skills that are needed in the Kingdom. Talents are used with hands, brains and hearts. They must all be used to glorify God. That's why we're here, folks. We are the Household of God.

Ephesians 2:20-22 (KJV)
20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;
21 In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:
22 In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.

***

Momala's Book Club Pick: I am reading "Have a Little Faith: A True Story" by Mitch Albom. Mr. Albom is a sports writer. Yeah, I know. But his books are so beautiful, so simple, so heartfelt. My favorite (and his first) is "Tuesdays with Morrie." If you haven't read it, you must. It's a life-changer. "Faith" follows the author as he meets with his childhood rabbi, who has asked him to bring his eulogy. This strange request prompts Albom to interview the man and delve deeper into his life. Amazon.com sells this book in paperback for $8.97. Hyperion Books. Four out of five stars.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did three aerobic workouts last week, totaling 25 minutes each. I am building back up to my pre-surgical exercise regimen. This week, I have returned to my regular 30-minute time.

***

Notable Quote:

"One only needs two tools in life: WD-40 to make things go, and duct tape to make them stop."--G.M. Weilacher

Construction Zone

2011-06-06T20:11:00.003-05:00

Philippians 1:6 (KJV)
Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:

The Hubster and I took a trip up the Interstate today to see one of his many specialists in Wichita. Since the weather has started warming up there is one occurrence that I have noticed more and more: construction zones. It seems like the highway department is constantly tearing up the roads in one direction or the other. If one project is nearing completion, they start putting up the orange cones for another one. The worst are the on- and off-ramp repairs. Horrors!

I know construction and repairs are necessary on the highways to keep things running smoothly and make sure vehicles (and their passengers) are safe. Just think if the state officials let our roads decay and crumble until they were impassable. It sure would make it a lot harder to drive to Wichita, or anywhere else, for that matter.

My life is in a bit of a construction zone, too. God is doing a great work in me. He's smoothing out my rough spots, building up the places where I am lacking and preparing me to do His will, both here on earth and in heaven. He is the Potter, I am the clay. I have to be willing to submit to His plan, because it is meant for me alone. No one else can fulfill my destiny on this earth.

This journey isn't exactly a cakewalk, though. It's not like turning on a light when you walk into a room. I have to make a conscious decision every day of my life to live intentionally, to walk in His path, to love others with Christlike passion. Some days I make big strides, some days I make baby steps, and some days I just sit. Still, I will follow.

Do you remember the old Sunday School song, "He's Still Working on Me"?

He's still working on me to make me what I ought to be.
It took Him just a week to make the moon and stars,
The sun and the earth and Jupiter and Mars.
How loving and patient He must be, He's still working on me.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: Praise the Lord! At my post-surgical doctor's visit last Friday, I was released to do all the things I've been wanting to. I celebrated by vacuuming the whole house! I did three disco aerobic workouts last week, too. Here's to getting back on track.

***

Notable Quote:

"The shortest distance between two points is under construction."--Noelie Altito

Pack Light

2011-05-30T16:57:00.014-05:00

I've done a lot of traveling so far this year and thus, a lot of packing. While I am great at organizing what to pack, it seems that I always put way too much in the old suitcase. What if it rains? I'll need a jacket. What if it gets cool in the evening? I'll need a sweater. What if the Queen of England stops by the hotel to invite us to tea? Better take a ballgown and tiara!

When returning from a mother/daughter trip to Savannah, GA this spring, I twisted my wrist and dropped a heavy bag on my toe. At the same time. Yes, grace and beauty in motion! I still have the bruise to prove it. This special event made me re-prioritize my packing strategy. Maybe I don't need to pack everything in my closet after all.

1 Timothy 6:7 (KJV)
7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.

The Lord's disciples were instructed to carry "neither purse, nor scrip, nor shoes" on their journeys. With all the new TSA regulations, and airlines charging $25 each way to check a bag, maybe we should all take a second look at what we're taking on our trips.

I don't think that's what the Lord was talking about, exactly. He meant that this life is hard, and we shouldn't have a lot of heavy stuff to drag around. He was speaking of SIN. Those pile up fast, if we don't take care of them, and soon we are lugging around a backpack the size of a Buick!

When we pray for forgiveness right away, and check ourselves often, we are able to pack light and be ready to go at a moment's notice. Don't you just love spur of the moment trips? Be careful, don't let Satan convince you to haul along those extra six pairs of hiking boots!

Matthew 11:28-30 (KJV)
28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

***

Momala's Book Club Picks: I finished both books I was reading last week, and am halfway through a new one. The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society and I Capture the Castle are great books. Both are set in post-World War II England, and have young women as the protagonist. I recommend both books. They are available on Amazon. Also, I used Psalms For Surgery by Curtis Dean Hall before, during and after my surgery. What a wonderful healing tool! I was much less stressed leading up to the surgery and afterward it has helped me to relax and rest in the Lord's promises. A MUST for anyone facing surgery. Available at Amazon, too.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I am still unable to exercise this week. My post-surgical doctor's appointment will be on Friday, when he will hopefully allow me to return to my regular activities. I really do miss exercise, although not that annoying Richard Simmons! The scale shows I have lost more weight, too. I'm down to 180 pounds.

***

Notable Quote:

"When preparing to travel, lay out all your clothes and all your money. Then take half the clothes and twice the money."--Susan Heller

Ministering Angels

2011-05-23T19:39:00.004-05:00

I admit it. Even though I just had surgery, and it will take a while to recover, I just can't get over the feeling that I am currently...useless.

I Peter 4:9-10 KJV
"Use hospitality one to another without grudging.
As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God."

So many people have been so gracious to me this week. My mom and The Hubster stayed with me before, during and after the surgery. My daughter, Sarah, and her husband, Derek, skipped their dinner plans to stay with me in the hospital while The Hubster ran home to tend "the livestock." The night nurse at Cypress Surgical Center in Wichita, Rita, talked books with me when I couldn't sleep on Tuesday night.

When we arrived home on Wednesday morning, there was a pile of get well cards in the mail, get well wishes on the answering machine and thoughtful emails and Facebook messages. Then the food started to arrive. Wow. Just wow. Our church folks are the best. They brought us enough food to last a week.

All this ministering to me felt so wonderful, but at the same time I felt a little lazy. I'm usually the one sending cards, making calls, paying visits and cooking food. Something my mom said stuck in my noggin. "Don't take a blessing away from someone by not letting them minister to you." Yup. I had never thought of it that way.

And so, I will be gracious to receive the blessings that others give. And I will thank God for them. And pray for them. Because soon, it will be my turn again to bless another soul.

***

Momala's Book Club: My magnificient Hubster got me a $50 Kindle gift card for Mother's Day, so I immediately bought a bunch of great books to load up on. I am reading two during my recovery: "The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society" by Mary Ann Shaff, and "I Capture the Castle" by Dodie Smith. They're both delicious so far. I'll give you a full report when I'm done.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did one aerobic workout last week on Monday, the day before my surgery. Dr. Dehart has ordered me on no exercise for two weeks. Ugh! I can't believe I actually miss it. My doctor and nurses feel sure that the regular exercise and loads of prayers have helped me recover so quickly.

***

Notable Quote:

Galatians 6:10 KJV
"As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith."

Psalms for Surgery

2011-05-16T14:07:00.004-05:00

It happens to the best of us. No matter how healthy you are and how well you take care of your body, sometimes things break down. I am having a laparoscopic hysterectomy tomorrow. Following some rather unpleasant symptoms and a whole lot of research, I've decided that this is the best option for me at this point in my life.

This is not something I am rushing into, I've been experiencing symptoms for about a year. Also, I am not taking this operation lightly. After six months of research and second, third and fourth opinions, this surgery is right for me. I went to the best in the state and am happy with my decision.

My friend and writing mentor, Curtis Dean Hall, has provided me with a great resource, "Psalms for Surgery." His CD of soothing music, scripture, prayers and meditation is helping me prepare for my hospital stay. I listen to the 25-minute segment once a day leading up to the surgery, then twice a day after. I will also have it playing during my procedure, as my surgeon is a Christian and eager to incorporate this into his practice.

I will keep you posted as to my condition and healing process, knowing that God will be beside me and give me the grace to rest and recover. Thanks for your prayers!

***

Congratulations to the graduates! My friends, Conner Coldwell and Charity Kester will be graduating from Arkansas City High School and Arkansas City Christian Academy, respectively, next week. Jessica Coldwell, another friend, graduated from Cowley College last week. I pray God's blessings and protection over your lives. Job well done!

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did four 30-minute aerobic workouts last week, plus a lot of housework and yard work. Sure felt good to get back into the routine of exercise. My body craves it now.

***

Notable Quote:

"If God sends us on strong paths, we are provided strong shoes."--Corrie ten Boom, author and World War II hero (Thanks for the quote, Deanne!)

Stay Weird, Graduates!

2011-05-09T13:41:00.012-05:00

1 Peter 2:9 (KJV)
But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:

I am probably never going to be asked to be a commencement speaker at a graduation ceremony, but all these graduation announcements that I am receiving in the mail got me to thinking. What words of wisdom would I impart on a young person facing the new challenge of college or career? Be peculiar!

While high school and college are great for some, there are kids who have trouble in school. Maybe they don't quite fit in like others do. Lots of teens do everything they can to blend in. Some can't, or won't. High school only lasts four years, although it seems like an eternity, at times. Go ahead, be unusual!

I was a weird kid. As a youngster, I lived my life through books. Doing my best to blend in, I passed through the high school years as a choir and drama nerd. I became proficient in talking, acting and dressing like everyone else. Inside, my true self was shy, insecure and searching for meaning and purpose. I wish I had the courage to be me.

God has called us to be a peculiar people. He wants us to be ourselves, our true, authentic selves. That's what He created us to be. If we stand in God's presence and stay true to His will for our lives, we will always be successful and blessed.

Don't be afraid to stand out in a crowd; to speak your mind and stand up for your convictions. These are the hallmarks of a full-grown adult, fully formed and ready for battle in the real world. Yes, people may look at you. They may also look up to you. Even if they don't agree with your views, they will admire your guts.

The city of Austin, Texas has adopted an interesting slogan: "Stay Weird, Austin!" This motto is in regards to their varied and eclectic arts and music community. I believe that as this year's graduates move toward adulthood, they should make this their mantra. Go ahead, give it a try...be peculiar!

***

Momala's Netflix Movie Pick: Okay, let me start by saying that I'm a big animal lover. "Hachi: A Dog's Tale," is a drama based on a real story from Japan. Richard Gere, Joan Allen and Jason Alexander star in this family film about an Akita puppy that is abandoned at a train station and befriended by Gere's character, a college music professor. The pup proves to be highly intelligent and walks his master to the train station every day, then returns to pick him up in the evening. After years of this pattern, one day the master suffers a fatal heart attack at work and never returns. Hachi continues to wait for his master's return for nine full years! This movie had me in tears, so I wouldn't recommend it for the soft-hearted. It is rated G. Five out of five stars.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did two disco aerobic workouts last week.

***

Notable Quote:

"A graduation ceremony is an event where the commencement speaker tells thousands of students dressed in identical caps and gowns that "individuality" is the key to success."--Robert Orben, American humorist

Growing Pains

2011-05-02T17:53:00.008-05:00

Philippians 1:6 (KJV)
Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:

I have a unique voice. No, I'm not talking about how I talk...I'm talking about how I write. Since beginning this blog in August 2007, God has been talking to me about what I write. Okay, not out loud. I'm saying that God has been speaking to my heart with His heart.

He's been placing words on my heart that I need to write, to share with all of you. Not because I'm special; because I'm not special. I'm just like you. I don't have all the answers. Probably never will. But I have a responsibility to share these words with you; to be obedient to my Savior. That's all He asks. Obedience.

So what? What does that have to do with you? Well, maybe your thing isn't writing. Whatever your talent is, God has a plan for you. He has a plan for all of us, right where we are. Too young, too old, too busy, not ready? I don't think so, and neither does God.

When I was a teenager, I would wake up in the middle of the night with leg cramps. My mom said they were "growing pains." Sometimes I wake up in the middle of the night now, only the growing pains aren't in my legs any more, they're in my heart and in my soul. God is doing a work in me and He's not done yet. I'm excited to see what happens next, how about you?

Scared? You bet! But if I didn't follow Him, what would I be missing? Let the adventure begin! Holding on to God's Hand, I'm safe.

Jeremiah 29:11 (KJV)
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.

***

Happy Mother's Day! It's coming up this Sunday, so don't forget.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I got back to my regular routine with three aerobic workouts last week. Wow, that feels better! I also took some exercise DVD's over to my mom and she picked out some she'd like to try. Another Iron Woman is born!

***

Notable Quote:

"The purpose of life is a life of purpose."--Robert Byrne, American author

Poked and Prodded

2011-04-25T19:25:00.006-05:00

The Hubster and I took a little trip last week. Well, actually it was a pretty large trip, at least for us. We spent two days at the National Institutes of Health. That's right, the one in Bethesda, MD.

NIH is a massive, 40-acre complex of 31 buildings, each one a specialty for a different illness. As you may know, The Hubster suffers from a very rare blood disorder (MGUS) that is related to multiple myeloma, a cancer of the blood. He has signed up to participate in a five-year medical study for the National Cancer Institute. In exchange for a small stipend, he gave 13 vials of blood, a full, body-scan x-ray, and bone marrow from his hip. Pretty sweet deal, huh?

The folks at the NIH, NCI and Bethesda Marriott treated us like celebrities. We were pampered from morning 'til night. Everyone there was so welcoming, friendly and concerned about our comfort. If anyone tries to tell you that people from Back East are rude, they are hanging out in the wrong places!

We were privileged to meet with the top doctors in the world and discuss The Hubster's condition and prognosis. These experts gave us a lot of cause to hope, and for that we are grateful to them. Most of all, we are grateful to God for His mercy and goodness to allow us to go and get the best help in the world.

***

I got a $5.00 check in the mail last week. "Big whoop!" you say. Indeed, but it marks a beginning in my writing career. That $5 was the prize money I was awarded for taking third place in the Kansas Authors Club-District 3 Literary Contest. My inspirational piece "Your House is on Fire" was the entry. (You can find it in the March 7, 2011 Female in Motion blog.) Now, what to do with all that loot? Maybe I'll just frame it.

***

The May Fellowship of Missionary Baptist Church will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 5, 2011, and again from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, May 6, 2011. This annual event welcomes pastors from around the Midwest who gather to encourage each other, fellowship over food and just generally enjoy. There will be lots of great gospel music, preaching and food, way too much food. After all, we're Baptists. Y'all come!

***

Today is World Malaria Day. I went to www.imaginenomalaria.org and did my part. Now one less child will die of a preventable disease. No sweat on my part; life-changing on their end.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I am ashamed to say I didn't exercise once last week. However, I walked all over the campus of the NIH and raced for gates at the Dallas/DC/Chicago/Wichita airports. My muscles were aching for exercise. I was glad to get back into the routine this morning.

***

Notable Quote:

"Medicine is the only profession that labours incessantly to destroy the reason for its own existence."--James Bryce, 1914

Mosquitoes Suck!

2011-04-16T14:54:00.016-05:00

Every year, 781,00 people die of a disease that is 100% preventable and treatable. Children under the age of five are the hardest hit. Not only does this disease cause a horrible physical toll, it costs the country of Africa $12 billion every year in lost productivity. This mosquito-borne malady was wiped out in the United States 60 years ago. Want to know what it is?

Imagine No Malaria is working tirelessly to see that every family in Africa has the tools they need to prevent, diagnose and treat this disease. This group wants to eradicate malaria in Africa by 2015. The World Health Organization's 2010 World Malaria Report showed incredible progress in the fight against malaria. Deaths from this disease are down 10% from last year. Because of groups like Imagine No Malaria and Malaria No More, awareness and contributions are up.

How do you make malaria a thing of the past, all over the world? Make insecticide-treated mosquito bed nets cheap or free and available to everyone. Educate families, communities and African governments about prevention and treatment and partner with them to get the word out. Encourage scientists to accelerate research on finding a malaria vaccine. Early diagnosis and treatment are the keys. Spraying the inside walls of homes and buildings with insecticide is an important strategy.

Lots of celebrities are getting involved: George Clooney, Bill & Melinda Gates, Conan O'Brien, Sarah Silverman, Jeff Probst, John Mayer, Josh Groban, Orlando Bloom, Diana Krall and Pauley Perrette. A tweet from Ashton Kutcher that turned into the "Most Re-Tweeted Message" on World Malaria Day 2009 is helping to provide 89,724 mosquito nets in Senegal.

What can you do to help?

*Give to Imagine No Malaria and find out more about the cause (www.imaginenomalaria.org)
*Follow them on Twitter (Twitter:NoMalaria)
*"Like" them on Facebook (Imagine No Malaria)
*Buy a "Mosquitoes Suck!" t-shirt. They're just $19.95 at the MNM (Malaria No More) store.
*Blog about it (like I did!)
*World Malaria Day is Monday, April 25, 2011. Host or attend an event.
*The United Methodist Church supports "Imagine No Malaria" (http://www.imaginenomalaria.org). Ask about it at church, or check it out at www.umc.org. They have great resources!
*Pray that not one more child will die needlessly of this preventable disease.

Matthew 18:1-6 (KJV)
1 At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?
2 And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them,
3 And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.
4 Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
5 And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.
6 But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I only did two aerobic workouts this week. Crazy busy trying to catch up on work, plus a revival at church. I didn't gain any weight on my trip to Savannah, though. I got plenty of exercise walking around that gorgeous town!

***

Notable Quote:

The first question which the priest and the Levite asked was: "If I stop to help this man, what will happen to me?" But... the good Samaritan reversed the question: "If I do not stop to help this man, what will happen to him?"--Martin Luther King, Jr.

Sweet, Soft Savannah

2011-04-12T21:29:00.007-05:00

Sorry, I'm tardy! This blog entry is a day late because I just got back from a mother/daughter trip to Savannah, GA. My mom and her sister, my Aunt Nancy, cooked up a great idea: take their daughters on a girls-only trip. Aunt Nancy and Uncle Barry had visited Savannah previously, but guys hate old house tours and fancy gardens and antiques and shopping, so he said to come back and bring some girls. Boy, did we have a blast!

I am so grateful to my mom for the opportunity to go to this beautiful and historic Southern city. Savannah is bursting with charm, stately homes, well-preserved history and citizens with impeccable manners. The climate was humid, but in a coastal sort of way, with plenty of cool breezes and warm sunshine. I marveled at city squares filled with live oaks loaded down with Spanish moss. (Which by the way is neither Spanish nor moss. It is from the pineapple family and filled with chiggers.) The parks and gardens were awash with the bright colors of spring flowers.

The food was plentiful, well-varied and all delicious. And, believe me, I tried it all! We had shrimp, oysters, salmon, low country boil, jambalaya and grits with it all, of course. We tried fresh pralines and salt water taffy and stracciatella gelato. We ate Southern food, Italian food and seafood.

Because of this epic journey, I got to cross a number of items off my "bucket list." You know, those things you want to do or see before you call it a life. I saw a lighthouse, dipped my toes in the Atlantic Ocean, saw a jellyfish, took a horse-drawn carriage ride and rode a trolley car. Doing all these things with some of my favorite people on earth made it that much sweeter.

My mom and I are two peas in a pod and we always have a good time together, whatever we are doing. To be able to hang out with my Aunt Nancy and cousin Cheryl was really special. We laughed and talked and swapped crazy stories about husbands and kids and life. We also teased and flirted with waiters and received preferential treatment wherever we went. If heaven is anything like Savannah, I highly recommend it.

(Pictured above is my cousin, Cheryl, Aunt Nancy, Mom and me, sitting on Forrest Gump's bus bench with a box of chocolates.)

***

Momala's Book Club Pick: I finished "Travels With Charley" and started John Bunyan's "Pilgrim's Progress." It takes just a little while to get into it, because of the Old English, but I am merely a quarter of the way through and really enjoying. This is one of those books I've always meant to read and never got around to.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did three aerobic workouts last week before leaving for my trip and walked my legs off during. Hopefully, the extra restaurant calories won't be a big problem.

***

Notable Quote:

"Anything that comes out of the South is going to be called grotesque by the Northern reader, unless it is grotesque, in which case it is going to be called realistic."--Flannery O'Connor, author and native Savannian (I saw her house!)

"Difference" of Opinion

2011-04-04T16:19:00.007-05:00

While visiting my "Texas Belle" last weekend, we had the opportunity to do some serious heart-to-heart talking. She has learned some things in her first year-and-a-half of marriage that took me much longer to comprehend. I raised some pretty savvy chicks!

Guys are different than girls. I know this is a startling revelation. God simply did not build them the same way as us. They don't look like us, talk like us, think like us, or smell like us, for that matter. Here are some simple rules that might help you figure out who that hairy thing is across the breakfast table each morning.

Female in Motion's Guide to Guys for Bewildered Babes

1. Guys don't know things that we don't tell them. You can give them all the hints in the world, but if you don't tell them flat-out, they won't know it.

2. Guys rarely suffer from emotions and can't always identify when they're having one. I once asked The Hubster when the last time was that he felt an emotion. He replied, "Um, I think it was about three weeks ago, but I can't remember what it was." Yup.

3. Guys don't absorb and reflect emotions like we do. Just because we can completely sympathize with what someone else is going through (such as one of our children), guys can't pick up on that and feel the same way.

4. Guys feel bad that they don't know what we're going through. It's so frustrating to them that they have no idea what we are upset about. They just want to fix it.

Here's what I'm glad about. God is so smart that He made men and women completely different so that we could balance each other out. I would hate it if The Hubster was emotional and dramatic like me. He's stable and calm and I can count on him to listen attentively and give constructive feedback. Praise the Lord for differences and for long marriages to work through all of them!

***

Momala's Book Club Pick: I am currently reading "Travels With Charley," by John Steinbeck. For all you Hemingway lovers, plug your ears. My favorite American author is John Steinbeck. Always has been. I can't believe it, but I've never read "Travels With Charley" before. This book is the author's account of an extended road trip he took with his poodle in a camper. They trekked cross-county for the better part of a year in 1961, in search of the real America. Steinbeck wanted to talk to citizens across the country about issues of the day and how they felt about them. He wanted to see how they lived and what made them happy. I think he was looking for fodder for his writing, but discovered some new perspectives. His descriptions are lush and artistic and his thoughts are complex, but relatable. Available on Amazon for $10.20 in paperback. Five out of five stars.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did four aerobic workouts last week. In my monthly weigh-in, I am down to 183 pounds. I am excited for my "girls trip" this week and think I will have enough stamina and energy to do everything I want. Full report when I return!

***

Notable Quote:

1 Corinthians 7:3 (KJV)
"Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband."

"I Am Not Superwoman!"

2011-03-28T20:40:00.003-05:00

That is the exclamation that I heard from my harried friend, Deanne, at her birthday party on Saturday. She was explaining to Jacque and I how she had been working overtime every day so far back she couldn't remember, caring for a sick husband, chasing grandkids, keeping house, doing chores (they have a horse!) and planning a family get-together. Yup, she had it bad!

You know what I'm talking about...those days when you're so bogged down with the cares of this world. I know precisely what you're going through. It's a woman thing. We feel the need to be everything to everyone in our life. No, we can't possibly disappoint anyone. And who gets the short end of the stick? We do.

We give it all to our families, our marriages, our jobs, our homes, our churches...but there is precious little left for ourselves and our faith.

Exodus 20:8-9,11 (KJV)
8 Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy.
9 Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work:
11 For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the LORD blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.

When God created this world, He made sure that 1/7th of the week was set aside for rest, worship and refreshment. When was the last time you did that? When you put the baby down for a nap, do you give yourself a facial and spend some time with a devotional book? I bet you throw in a couple of loads of laundry, scrub the kitchen floor and return a slew of emails. Am I a little bit right? I thought so.

If the Creator of the Universe took time out to rest, who do we think we are? It's time to get quiet, time to rejuvenate, time to say no to that big club project. Who knows? God may be trying to get our attention. Recharge your batteries and hit 'em twice as hard tomorrow!

***

Photo above is of my dear, sweet friend, Deanne, at her surprise birthday party last weekend. I had so much fun visiting with her, her family and our mutual friend, Jacque. Happy Birthday and God bless you, Deanne!

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did four 30-minute aerobic workouts last week. Trying to build up my endurance, because I have a hectic April ahead of me, with lots of globe-trotting.

***

Notable Quote:

"Anger dwells only in the bosom of fools."--Albert Einstein

Scrub Your Worries Away

2011-03-21T18:45:00.003-05:00

Have you ever noticed how getting down on your hands and knees and scrubbing a floor really makes you feel better? I had a few worries that I was working on this morning, and couldn't concentrate on my work. What's the first thing I do?

1. Cry
2. Eat
3. Pray
4. Clean something.

Okay, I know my priorities are completely out of whack. It should be: pray and clean and then there would be no need to cry or eat. But alas, I am human. And so I cried, then ate, then prayed and then scrubbed the life out of the kitchen linoleum. After that aerobic workout, I felt good and tired and took time out to pray again. I had a much clearer head then.

As a woman, I think I have problems sorting out all the emotions I feel. Sometimes they get all in a jumble and knotted up. That's when the urge to scrub strikes hard. There's just something peaceful about a dirty floor, a brush and hot, soapy water. Two of the emotions that were left in that kitchen were frustration and anger. I didn't even realize they were there, until they were gone. Good thing, too.

Matthew 11:28 (KJV)
"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."

This verse gives me a lot of comfort. I know that all my labors are not in vain. That God sees everything I'm going through, and will give me peace if I ask Him for it. (And next time, I'm getting dirt-colored linoleum!)

***

Momala's Book Club Pick: I just finished "Gloria Won," a heartfelt book by my dear friend, Danice Sweet, veteran author and local art teacher. This compelling story retells the author's mother's journey through the horrors of ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease). A CD of beautiful hymns, by Danice, a gifted musician, are included in the volume. This book is available at Willow Fashion in Arkansas City or at www.amazon.com for $20.48 in paperback.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did four aerobic workouts last week. My days were very busy, with lots of activity and travel, so the exercise helped me to be at my best.

***

Notable Quote:

"My idea of superwoman is someone who scrubs her own floors."--Bette Midler, actor

Are You a Female in Motion?

2011-03-14T22:02:00.007-05:00

I had the privilege to speak to the United Methodist Women of Madison Avenue United Methodist Church in Derby, KS this evening. My mom is a member, and I grew up in that church, so a few there still remember me. (This did not work to my advantage. They know all the dirt!)

The subject of my speech was "Female in Motion: Finding Your Own Personal Mission Field." I really connected with these ladies and we had fun discussing life after kids and balancing all the things that women do every day, while still finding time for themselves and their spiritual lives. Sharing my passion for writing and speaking was really cool and I hope to be able to make speeches a regular thing in my life.

Ask yourself some questions:

1. Am I satisfied with my life?
2. What's next, Lord?
3. Where is my mission field?
4. Can I become a Female in Motion?

***

I got the proofs of my photo shoot yesterday. If you want to see them, check out my Facebook page. Please let me know which ones look like someone you would buy a book from, or go to hear her speak. Thanks to Kalaina Seidel of Candid Moments Photography!

***

"Lucky Stiff" was the name of the spring musical that Cowley College put on last week. The Hubster and I caught one of the hilarious and fast-paced performances. Our young (and uber-talented) friend Jessica Coldwell was in it. She stole the show with her flirty French secretary role, complete with "bend-and-snap" routine. Jessica had the audience in stitches! Next year, she'll be wowing crowds at either Wichita State University or University of Central Oklahoma. Knock 'em dead, kiddo!

***

Cowley County Writers Guild meeting will be held at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, March 17, 2011, at the Ark City Public Library. Grant Williams will be helping us to submit our writing to publications. Also, there will be a readaround, so don't forget to bring something to read! See you there!

***

Momala's Netflix Movie Pick: We watched "To Save A Life" last weekend. This is an inspirational film that takes on the difficult subject of teen suicide. It's not all pretty-perfect and tied up with a bow, either, which I found compelling. Rated PG-13, this film is not for younger kids. There are scenes of teen drinking, drug use and sex. There's also a really hopeful ending.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did three aerobic workouts last week. That Richard Simmons just won't quit! He's just annoying enough to keep me huffing and puffing.

***

Notable Quote:

"Take courage for the great sorrows of life. And patience for the small ones. And when you have laboriously accomplished your daily task, go to sleep in peace. God is awake."--Victor Hugo, French author, 1802-1885

Your House is on Fire

2011-03-07T18:07:00.015-06:00

The Hubster teaches the adult Sunday School class at our church, and yesterday he related an interesting story I had never heard before. Kind of funny, because when you're married to someone for nigh on to 30 years, you pretty much hear them all. This one was new...or rather old...and it stuck in my heart.

When he was a teenager, The Hubster and one of his friends were driving through Winfield one evening. As he drove down a dirt road on the edge of town, they passed a large, two-story home. Just after they passed, The Hubster's friend looked back and exclaimed, "Look, that house is on fire!" Indeed, the entire back side of the home was engulfed in flames.

The two teens whipped around and pulled into the driveway. While The Hubster pounded on the front door, his friend rattled the window. They could see the family gathered in the living room, watching television, unaware of the inferno in the other room. The boys pounded harder, shouting now: "Fire! Fire!"

When the father came to the front door, he didn't believe them. He shut the door in their faces. The Hubster caught a glimpse of an infant toddling its way toward the kitchen, now filled with fire and smoke. He pounded on the door and screamed even louder. As the father came back to the door, The Hubster simply pointed toward the baby. The family finally believed.

This story made me think, how could they be so unaware? Weren't they paying attention? How about me? Am I aware of my surroundings? Do I know what's going on? Is my house on fire?

Think this over: God is pounding on the door of your heart, screaming for you to pay attention to Him. Will you answer the door?

***

I want to say a big "PRAISE THE LORD" because my dear friend, Roger Dunn, pastor of Calvary Baptist Church, Perry, OK, just found out that he is now cancer-free! He and his wife, Kathy, are wonderful old friends, and I am so grateful to God for this good news. There were a lot of people praying for them, and it's true, God still answers prayers.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did three aerobic workouts last week. When I did my monthly weigh-in this morning, I found I have lost two more pounds. Down to 185. Hooray!

***

Notable Quote:

"to be nobody but yourself in a world that's doing its best to make you somebody else is to fight the hardest battle you are ever going to fight. never stop fighting."--e. e. cummings

Birthdays are the Best

2011-02-28T19:50:00.005-06:00

Last Tuesday was my 49th birthday. Yep, I'm officially an old chick. If it comes as a surprise that I put my real age in the first sentence of this entry, you need to know a little secret. I'm grateful for every year that God gives me.

When I was 25 years old, I gave birth to a beautiful baby girl and the next day I found out that I had malignant melanoma. Going through surgery, post-op infection and a long recovery was a daunting task at 25. Add in a newborn and a four-year-old, and it was a pretty scary time. God guided me through each step and with the help of my family, I was back to normal in a few months time.

Never again will I take for granted another birthday; another year of life. Never again will I complain about getting older. Since then, I love celebrating another year with a big, noisy birthday party. Yes, my hair is gray and I've got more wrinkles than a Shar-Pei puppy, and I'm loving every minute of this messy, loud blessed life that God has given me.

***

Today, I had a completely unique adventure. I went to my favorite Ark City salon, Shear Success, and got my hair and makeup done. Girlish whim, you ask? No, I had my first professional photo shoot this afternoon. The pictures should be ready in a few weeks, so watch my blog and Facebook page for a glimpse. Special thanks to Erica Hadorn at Shear Success for the makeover and Kalaina Seidel at Candid Moments Photography for sharing her talent.

***

Reading through the church bulletin on Sunday, I came across this verse:

I Peter 5:10 (KJV)
"But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you."

This has been rattling around in my crazy little brain ever since I read it. Those phrases: "suffered a while," "make you perfect" and "settle you." I don't think He means that we will be loaded down with trials and tribulation, but that our life here on earth is hard and sin-filled. Also, suffering won't make us "perfect," but it will perfect (or mature) our faith in God. Settling my heart, my mind and my very busy nerves sounds heavenly to me.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did three aerobic workouts last week. I want to try and increase that by one more on a regular basis. I will be taking a trip in April that will require a lot of walking, and I want my endurance to be tip-top.

***

Notable Quote:

"Because time itself is like a spiral, something special happens on your birthday each year: The same energy that God invested in you at birth is present once again."--Menachem Mendel Schneerson

Use It or Lose It

2011-02-21T15:36:00.008-06:00

If someone gave you a gift, would you open it right away, or put it away until a more "convenient" time? Or maybe for when you turn 21 years old? When my brother was very young, he would jump up and down, waving his arms, screaming, "Open it! Open it!"

What if God was the one giving you a gift?

Romans 12:5-8 (KJV)
"So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.
6 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith;
7 Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching;
8 Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness."

What is a spiritual gift?

Some talents are easy to see, like athletic prowess, musical or artistic ability or preaching skill. Intangible gifts are more difficult to discern, like encouragement, giving, nurturing, prayer, service, time and teaching. Most people know what gifts they have. Perhaps they were evident from childhood, but do they use them? And, more importantly, do they use them for the glory of God?

1 Peter 4:10 (KJV)
"As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God."

Not everyone knows what their talents are. I was a late bloomer and didn't realize the gifts that I had until God showed me. If you don't know where your talents lie, ask God to reveal them to you. I did this through prayer, Bible study, soul-searching and listening hard to His leading. Here's a tip sheet:

1. Make a list of your possible talents. (Ask others if you must.)
2. Keep it handy in your Bible or prayer journal.
3. Pray over it daily.
4. Listen to God's voice.
5. Be brave and move towards God's leading. He'll let you know.

Check this: If you're right, God will bless and prosper your gift. If not, it's not God's will for you.

Don't wait for the best time to use your gifts, use them now! God needs your special skills right where you are, at the age you are and in the way only you can do them. If we serve others with love and an open heart, God will bless. No guts, no glory of God.

***

Okay, if you're not blind, you've noticed that my blog looks different today. I am trying something new. I feel like my life is transitioning and I want my blog to reflect those changes. Please be honest with me and weigh in. It's a work-in-progress, it may never be done.

***

Some really crazy "God-things" are happening in my life, and I am amazed at the changes. My devotion on self-esteem has been accepted for publication by Upper Room Magazine and will be out sometime this year. Janelle Keith featured a link to my blog from hers last week, and lots of her readers and listeners looked me up. I have been asked to provide blog content on the Kansas Writers Association website on a regular basis and I will be speaking to Derby Madison Avenue United Methodist Church's women's group in March about my writing ministry. I'll keep you posted on everything.

***

I want to humbly thank Janelle Keith for providing content for my blog last week. She is so gifted and I am grateful for her sharing with us. Be sure to listen to her morning radio show on 89.7 or 100.1 FM. You're the best, Janelle!

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did four aerobic workouts last week. By the way, that pesky three pounds I gained during December is gone, gone, gone.

***

Notable Quote:

Matthew 5:16 (KJV)
"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."

The Poor Among Us

2011-02-14T19:00:00.009-06:00

Today I have a special surprise for my readers. Never before has this happened. I have invited a guest blogger to post on my website. *gasp* No, I'm not being lazy this week. I wanted you to hear a very important message from my guest. In fact, you may know her already if you live in Cowley County. Her name is Janelle Keith and she is a morning disc jockey for The House FM radio station (89.7 FM), among other things.

According to Janelle, "I serve both stations as Promotions Director and am co-host for the "McCoy in the Morning" show on The House. I live in Perry, OK with my husband Terry. My son Shayne attends OSU. My daughter Lindsay is now living in Denver, CO with her husband Billy, who is a First Officer for Great Lakes Airlines. I have a passion for spreading the word about the ministries that God has entrusted to the staff of The House FM and Praise 88.7. I love seeing lives changed for the cause of Christ."

Janelle traveled to the Dominican Republic on a mission trip last summer. A trip she describes as "life-changing." Here is her entry:

I have never been what I consider rich, at least by the world’s standards. For one reason or another, God has not allowed it. That’s ok with me, who needs worldly “riches” anyway? That is a new attitude for me, one that is different than what I had a few months ago.

This past summer I had the opportunity to go on a mission trip to the Dominican Republic. It was my first international trip and I was very excited. This is something I had prayed about for years, but didn’t take the opportunity to go on a trip until now. It just so happens that I work at a Christian radio station and we were partnering with Mission of Mercy, Colorado Springs, CO to gather a team together to do light construction, Vacation Bible School and other activities. I was asked to go as part of the radio team. When the email came in “Would you like to go?” needless to say, I didn’t have to think twice about it.

Bringing special skills really wasn’t necessary, just a willing heart to serve. I already had that. I have been a “server” at church for years on the host team, special projects, part of a church plant and such. So as I began to prepare for the trip, it seemed easy. On the to-do list was get a passport, shots, finalize paperwork, and talk to friends to gather donation items to take along for the kids. I had also prayed for God to do a work in me and in my heart. Not knowing what was ahead, I prayed that God would break down the walls in me as well as the other team members, that we would love those we were going to serve. With charged-up ambitions and motivations, 32 team members from 8 states boarded planes to converge on destination Santiago, DR to make a difference in the lives of children. Little did I know that I would be the one changed by those seven days.

The week started off great with team devotions. The first night our trip leader shared, Matthew 26:1, which says, "For ye have the poor always with you." I thought, “Yeah, that is what we came for, to serve the poor.” After all, we were in a developing country. Wasn’t it expected we would see the poor side of communities, cities, and people? I thought I was ready for that. I wasn’t.

At the Mission of Mercy child development center, we got right to work with the locals sanding, painting and making cement from scratch. They don’t have access to a lot of resources, so they have to do regular construction the “old fashioned way”. It was ok. I was prepared to work hard and sweat. There were breaks in the work for playing with the kids. We were encouraged to do that as one way of showing them love, connecting through a common interest. In the DR, baseball is huge. One baseball, a glove and a bat have magnetic powers to bring out kids and adults, like a colony of ants. So pick-up baseball games or just playing catch can be an opportunity to meet the families that live there.

The week also included some home visits. I understood the living conditions would be different. After all this was not America. So our trip leader took us on a journey in the neighborhood to see the culture, the environment, and the people who lived there. We set out with our cameras and fanny packs, loaded with curiosity and questions. In a way, I felt a little like a tourist. We stood out to these people, different for sure, as we were well dressed, even in our work clothes. We were in a pack, clustered together as if we were at the zoo, looking at the animal exhibits or a bunch of foreigners seeing a manufacturing plant of some new breakthrough technology. Curious to soak up as much as we could, we pressed into their world; most of us had not seen anything like it.

There were people just standing outside their cement block and tin houses. There, in their dirt front yards, trash was everywhere. There were banana trees growing in the most inconvenient places. Children were holding mangoes-- their one meal of the day. People with hungry faces watched the parade of Americans pass by. We stopped at the house of a tutor, one of the teachers for the center. She was proud to show us her three-room living space. Her house boasted a homey feeling despite the exceptional bare cement floor, one bed -- shared by her and two small kids, which also served as her closet -- a small kitchen with several fly-covered pots, and a TV perched atop of the small refrigerator. That was it. No bathroom. There was no running water. She was most hospitable by letting us come in, and take pictures of everything. As I stood there and listened to her story through the interpreter, I was reminded of the verse given to us at the beginning of the week. "For ye have the poor always with you." Yes, by American standards she was poor. She was definitely living on the front lines of poverty. But as I heard her testify of her future, she had hope. She wanted to go back to school to learn how to be a nurse. She wanted to provide a bright future for her kids. She wanted to continue to work at the center to make a difference for the kids that attended. She had hope in her eyes, she had joy in her heart. Though she was surrounded by a reality that had gripped me, she lacked nothing in spirit. She had hope, she had everything.

Crouched outside her door, God broke my heart. Tears streamed down my face as I thought of all that I had at home, my family, my kids, my job, my church. She had everything that matters, and I felt as if I was lacking. I saw poverty face to face. My heart broke again and again. I saw “the least of these” in their faces and I was changed. I was in tears again today with the conviction that I have so much. So who are the poor among us? I came away from those seven days knowing that in many ways I was.

Wow! Powerful stuff. Thanks, Janelle! Make sure to surf over to Janelle's blog (www.janellekeith.blogspot.com) or listen to her on the radio (89.7FM or anywhere in the world at www.thehousefm.com). I know Janelle would love to hear your comments on her post.

***

Reminder: The February meeting of the Cowley County Writers Guild will meet at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, February 17, 2011 in the meeting room of the Ark City Public Library. This month we will be discussing incorporating the five senses in your writing: touch, sight, smell, taste and sound. Please bring paper and pen/pencil for exercises. Everyone is invited, regardless of style, experience or age.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did three disco aerobic workouts last week, plus two sessions of snow shoveling. Ah, the glories of home ownership! Also, The Hubster and I are trying some new chair exercises to help him regain some mobility. I'll keep you posted.

***

Notable Quote:

"Food. Water. Shelter. Air. Sleep. Societal inflation has expanded need into greed. Suddenly the basic survival needs also include a cell phone, cable TV, and French manicured fingernails.... We've become the absolute biggest whiners of all human history with the absolute smallest justification for whining."--Charlie Diekatze, author

Perception, As I See It

2011-02-07T16:22:00.021-06:00

This is going to come as a bit of a shock to my readers. I'm not perfect. There, I've said it. I have my strengths: I love everybody and I'm a very forgiving person. I also have my weaknesses: I don't like confrontation. The longer I live, the more I realize that I am not everyone's cup of tea, and that's alright by me.

Recently, I had a conversation with someone about perception. Who people perceive me to be and how I perceive others. As a Christian, some folks think I am judgmental or intolerant. Actually, as a Christian, I am commanded to be loving to all. I try to take time to get to know someone and not pass judgment on anyone.

Some people talk about tolerance, but it's just a ruse. They really just want others to agree with them. My grandmother had very strong opinions, but superb manners. She would never interrupt anyone or lose her temper. She always listened to all sides of an issue. I learned a lot from her. Maybe manners and kindness could help our culture get along better.

While I don't know what it's like to be bullied, gay, in an abusive relationship or pregnant and alone, I do know what we all have in common: our humanity, our inner strength and our love. Those traits can see us through the darkest situation. Regardless of whether you have a personal relationship with Christ, you possess compassion and understanding of the human condition. I believe it's all about perception...vision. And sometimes your vision is distorted and you need glasses...a correction.

The next time you see someone screaming at their kid in the store, instead of saying something bad about them, try to put yourself in their place. How about, "Gee, you must be having a doozy of a day today."

I strive every day to be open to finding new things to like about the people around me. Yes, even the people who drive me crazy. Face it, there are days when I drive them crazy right back. So, we're even.

Luke 19:7, 9-10 (KJV)
"And when they saw it, they all murmured, saying, That he was gone to be guest with a man that is a sinner. 9 And Jesus said unto him, This day is salvation come to this house, forsomuch as he also is a son of Abraham. 10 For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost."

***

Momala's Book Club Pick: I am reading two new books this week on my Kindle, and I can't put either one of them down. It makes me feel a little divided, but they're both great reads. The first is "Listen" by Rene Gutteridge. Rene lives in OKC and has written tons of Christian suspense fiction. She also wrote the screenplay for "The Ultimate Gift," one of my favorite Hallmark Channel holiday films. This book is about a small town that becomes terrorized by a mysterious website that publishes all their very private conversations. The author really knows how to build tension. Four out of five stars. Available on Amazon for $10.32 in paperback.

"Sun Stand Still" is a Christian non-fiction book by Pastor Steven Furtick, and documents what happens to Christians when they display audacious faith. The premise is based on Joshua's heartfelt prayer during a battle with the Amorites, found in Joshua 10. I am so excited to read about people's incredible visions for their lives and how God supernaturally guides them along. I heard about this book from Janelle Keith, a DJ on The House FM radio station. Five out of five stars. Available on Amazon for $8.88 in paperback.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did two aerobic workouts last week and one large session of snow shoveling. We got eight inches of the icy scourge. I think I'm ready for spring now...please!

***

Notable Quote:

"If you're not daring to believe God for the impossible, you're sleeping through some of the best parts of your Christian life. And further still: if the size of your vision for your life isn't intimidating to you, there's a good chance it's insulting to God."--Steven Furtick, author, "Sun Stand Still"

Mixed Media Melange

2011-01-31T15:24:00.013-06:00

January in Kansas is typically a dreary and long month, punctuated by bouts of ice, freezing drizzle and snowfalls. Last week, however, we were treated to temperatures in the 50s and 60s, accented by sunny skies. A lovely respite, I must say. The Hubster and I took advantage of this hiatus and kicked up our heels in the big city.

On Thursday evening, after a trip to visit his doctor, The Hubster and I dined on Mexican fare at Jose Peppers. I had the Pollo Magnifico, which was basically a chicken chimichanga, drowned by a jalapeno cream cheese sauce. Decadent! The Hubster had his usual pork tamales, which were spicy and good. Both our plates had plenty left on them when we were done eating, so doggy bags were in order.

We followed that up with a movie at the Warren Theater. "True Grit" is a film we had been promising ourselves to see before it left theaters. We were not disappointed. This Coen Brothers'-led tale starred Jeff Bridges, Matt Damon and newcomer Hailee Steinfeld. Yes, I realize that the John Wayne version is a classic, which I have enjoyed several times. The new version is simply a different look at the book. I found it so compelling that I have been daydreaming about scenes from the film. Can't wait to see it on Netflix! Rated PG-13 for its frank portrayal of Wild West life, don't let the kids see this one. Also, there is a scene with several cranky rattlesnakes for those of you (me!) who don't care for the boogers! I give "True Grit" four and a half out of five stars.

***

Netflix Video Pick of the Week: We watched "Toy Story 3" last weekend. I know, we're grownups, but if you haven't seen this movie, you should. It has been nominated for Best Picture category in the Oscars, and rightly so. What a simple, beautiful story to complete this series. Round up the family, pop some popcorn and snuggle up to watch this together. Five out of five stars. Perfection!

***

Momala's Book Club Pick of the Week: You must read "Being Dead is No Excuse: The Official Southern Ladies Guide to Hosting the Perfect Funeral" by Gayden Metcalfe and Charlotte Hays. I haven't laughed out load while reading in a long time. This book made me chuckle, chortle and plain-out snort over its tongue-in-cheek views on throwing the perfect Southern funeral. This official manual for the kin of the dearly departed is part cookbook, part satire. No matter if you're Southern or not, you will enjoy this romp through the do's and don't evers of putting out the perfect spread. A quick and fun read. The book is available through Amazon.com for $21.99. Four out of five stars.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did four aerobic workouts last week. I'm still working off the three pounds I gained over the holidays. Slowly but surely, it's coming off!

***

Notable Quote:

"The length of a film should be directly related to the endurance of the human bladder."--Alfred Hitchcock

His Word is Written For Me

2011-01-24T19:10:00.006-06:00

Have you tried plugging yourself into the Scriptures? It's amazing! Personalizing the way you read the Bible really does make it come to life. Face it, if a book was written all about you and your life, you'd want to read it.

John 3:16 (KJV)
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."

Now, plug in your name:

"For God so loved "Carol", that he gave his only begotten son, that if "Carol" believeth in him "Carol" should not perish, but have everlasting life."

Read it through a couple of times, plugging in your name. Then let it soak into your brain. Try it again:

Psalm 23:1 (KJV)
"The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want."

"The LORD is "Carol's" shepherd; "Carol" shall not want."

See what I mean? It's powerful stuff! I find myself plugging my name into Scriptures all the time now. When I'm reading a morning devotion, even when I'm listening to a sermon at church, I find myself putting my name into the verse and feeling all the love and power it possesses. Just for me!

I can't take credit for this idea. (As much as I would like to!) My friend and writing coach, therapist Dean Hall, gave me this tip. He's simply full of wild ideas!

***

Last Thursday was the January meeting of the Cowley County Writers Guild, of which I am president and founder. We had eight people in attendance and lots of great creativity and energy. Everyone took a turn around the table and read something they had written. Then, just for kicks, we wrote down personal writing goals for 2011 and put them all in a "time capsule" to be opened in January 2012.

These meetings are held at 6:30 p.m. on the third Thursday of every month at the Ark City Public Library. You don't have to be a professional writer to attend, just have an interest in writing.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did four aerobic workouts last week.

***

Notable Quote:

Psalm 23:6 (KJV)
"Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever."

Everybody Wants to Rule the World

2011-01-17T16:53:00.008-06:00

"It's a pretty good zoo," said young Gerald McGrew, "and the fellow who runs it seems proud of it, too. But if I ran the zoo,” said young Gerald McGrew, “I’d make a few changes. That’s just what I’d do.”--from "If I Ran the Zoo," by Dr. Seuss.

I've had a few things to be in charge of, being a mom and running a household. Add in a few school and church projects and you've got the picture. I take a lot of pride in doing things well and keeping my house tidy. Wait a minute...who am I kidding? I am a control freak! I like to have things done just so, put away right and cleaned one way only.

Living life as a Christ-follower, I know I must submit my life to His will. So how do I reconcile my controlling ways? I catch myself thinking, "I'll handle this one, God. Don't bother yourself over it." How audacious! This is dangerous thinking!

Proverbs 28:26 (KJV)
"He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered."

I must get out of God's way. He can handle my life's problems a lot better than I ever thought I could. He may even have some better ideas.(Ahem) I must release my controlling grip and let God steer the ship of my life. Besides, when I hold things that tight, they usually slip right through my grasp.

Now, I bring my controlling problem before the Lord. I have asked Him to forgive me and release me from this burden. It didn't happen all at once, so I have made a multitude of trips to His throne. It's not because of a shortage of His grace, it's a shortage of my faith. I'm a work-in-progress!

***

Momala's Book Club Pick: I completed my first ebook last weekend. "In the Company of Others: A Father Tim Novel" by Jan Karon was a fun and cultural trip to County Sligo, Ireland for Father Tim and his bonny wife, Cynthia. What was planned as a birthday gift to his wife, a vacation to Ireland turns into a mission field for the retirement-aged couple. This Christian fiction book by veteran author Karon is lush with loads of Irish history and verdant countryside. A little mystery thrown in, and the book is well-worth reading. Four out of five stars. Available at www.amazon.com in paperback, hardback and Kindle.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did four aerobic workouts last week, including one on Friday, which The Hubster witnessed. He always gets a chuckle out of watching me huff and puff in front of the TV.

***

Notable Quote:

"I refuse to accept the view that mankind is so tragically bound to the starless midnight of racism and war that the bright daybreak of peace and brotherhood can never become a reality.... I believe that unarmed truth and unconditional love will have the final word."--Martin Luther King, Jr. (Happy MLK Day, readers!)

Snow Day

2011-01-10T13:42:00.010-06:00

I am sitting at the computer today, staring out the bedroom window while fat, white snowflakes fall out of the sky and make their lazy way into our backyard. I have to admit, the older I get, the more I hate the endless cold, gray Kansas winters. Daydreams of palm tree groves and white sand beaches interrupt my work. It is kind of pretty to watch the snowy landscape from a warm, snug home, though. As long as I don't have to step foot outside!

***

Our daughter, Sarah, got married last weekend. Actually, she and Derek eloped to Las Vegas. The Hubster and I were completely supportive of this move, because we knew they were ready to be married and it wasn't all about the wedding. They wanted to have fun, though, and if the Facebook postings and pictures are any indication, they had a blast!

One thing that was completely unique about Sarah and Derek's nuptials was the ceremony was broadcast on live, streaming video to the internet. Thus, all of their relatives and friends across the country got to watch the ceremony live. You've gotta love new technology!

The Hubster and I also eloped, many, many moons ago. That's where the similarity ends, however. Let's do a comparison:

*They eloped to Las Vegas, NV. We eloped to Newkirk, OK.

*They wore elegant dress clothes. We wore jeans and t-shirts.

*Their ceremony was in a beautifully decorated chapel. Ours was in a 115-degree empty church building.

*People around the country watched their wedding. Ours was witnessed by The Hubster's brother and sister-in-law.

*They have lots of pictures of their happy day. We have lots of good (and funny!) memories of our happy day.

*They ate their wedding supper at Tom Colicchio's Craftsteak in Vegas. The Hubster and I enjoyed a steak dinner at The Rusty Nail in Ark City.

*Sarah and Derek had a great time enjoying their Vegas honeymoon. We spent a night at the Holiday Inn in Wichita the following weekend.

*They are just starting out on the great adventure of their life together. The Hubster and I are still going strong, almost 30 years later.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did four aerobic exercise workouts last week. I found a bag of my daughter's hand-me-down size 14 pants in the back of my closet. Surprise! They all fit now. Good stuff!

***

Notable Quote:

"Winter came down to our home one night
Quietly pirouetting in on silvery-toed slippers of snow,
And we, we were children once again."
--Bill Morgan, Jr.

"What a crock!"--me

Cooking Up a Mess

2011-01-03T17:23:00.016-06:00

During the Christmas holiday, our daughter and her husband came home to visit. We were all hustling around the kitchen on Christmas Eve, The Hubster and I assembling his famous Crab Enchiladas (a Christmas tradition), and Rachel stirring up a batch of her fabulous cookies. Our cottage kitchen is small but well-stocked, and if you add in several adults and a few cats, it gets pretty snug.

It may sound odd, but these are some of my happiest moments in life. I would love nothing more than hanging out in the kitchen with my family and our pets, cooking together forever. Okay, maybe not forever, but at least during holidays. We laugh and talk and tell crazy stories and make divine dishes to savor later. I enjoy making memories with food.

When my daughters were very small, we baked cookies together. I think our first batch was snickerdoodles, just like I did with my mom. Peanut butter soon became their favorite, followed closely by chocolate no-bake cookies. The girls would draw up chairs to the cabinet and stir the ingredients in with large wooden spoons. They learned about baking, but they also learned about food and kitchen safety, nutrition and weights and measures.

Because both The Hubster and I cook, the kitchen is the place to be in our house. Sarah and Rachel knew they could always find one or both of us in there, if they needed us. They usually got roped into helping out, as well. They learned at a tender age all aspects of cooking, including the dreaded clean up. The horrors!

When The Hubster was finishing his bachelor's degree, the girls and I would cook dinner together, pack it up and drive out to his office to eat together. On week days, this would be the only time they got to spend with their dad. I tried to make it extra special. Sarah and Rachel would show Daddy their school work and tell him about their day and Daddy would show them the latest cool thing he had on his computers.

Sometimes the food itself is a memory: Rainbo bread is what The Hubster and I fed the ducks at Island Park when we were courting, or our first anniversary candlelight dinner with the most horrifying hazelnut torte he ever ate. Ask him sometime!

Our daughters' fellas, Derek and Drew, both love to cook, too. Someday, I want to have a huge kitchen so that my whole family can gather around and we can all cook together easily. Whatever we're cooking, fois gras or sloppy joes, you can be assured we're having a great time and stirring up some good memories.

***

Steve Martin’s Famous Crab Enchilada Recipe

1 small can chopped green chilies (Old El Paso)
1 large can La Victoria green enchilada sauce (available at Country Mart in Ark City) –or--3 cans Old El Paso green enchilada sauce (mild)
½ pint sour cream
3 cups shredded cheese, cheddar or Mexican blend
12 taco size flour or corn tortillas
1 pint cooked and shredded crabmeat (or imitation), approx. 2 cups
1 small bunch green onions, finely chopped, for garnish

In a large mixing bowl, mix crabmeat, 1/3 of cheese, half the green chilies, and half a can of enchilada sauce. Pour other half of enchilada sauce in 9x13 baking dish. Put 2 tablespoons of filling from mixing bowl into tortillas. Place finished tortillas in baking dish. Put the last two cans of enchilada sauce, sour cream and remaining green chilies into the empty bowl. Stir until thoroughly mixed. Pour over finished enchiladas. Top with remaining shredded cheese. Bake at 350 degrees for 35-40 minutes. Garnish with green onions, if desired.

Rachel's Chocolate Chewies
(adapted from www.lovintheoven.com)

1-3/4 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup cocoa powder (Hershey's Special Dark is the best)
2 tsp. cornstarch
1/4 tsp. salt
2 egg whites
1 cup roughly chopped walnuts or pecans

Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Cover cookie sheet with parchment paper and spray with cooking spray. Combine sugar, cocoa, cornstarch and salt. Rachel uses a stand mixer on low. Gradually add egg whites and mix on low. Add nuts and incorporate with a spatula. Mixture will be freakishly sticky! Use a cookie scoop to drop 12-15 cookies on baking sheet. Bake at 300 degrees for 16-20 minutes. Cookies will be shiny and crack. Remove parchment containing cookies to a cooling rack. Do not attempt to remove cookies until they are completely cool. These cookies taste like really fudgy brownies!

***

Confidential to S & D: Congrats on your Vegas nuptials! God bless! Enjoy!

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did three disco aerobic workouts last week and am back to the regular schedule this morning. I hope to drop those three pounds that Santa left me!

***

Notable Quote:

Dirty Dishes

Thank God for dirty dishes
They have a tale to tell
While other folks go hungry,
We're eating very well.
With home and health and happiness
We should not want to fuss.
For by this stack of evidence,
God's very good to us!

--Author unknown (this poem is in the front of my first cookbook)

Breaking News

2010-12-27T19:26:00.009-06:00

I just received a late Christmas gift...my devotion on self-esteem has been accepted for publication by Upper Room Magazine! Though I don't yet know when the publish date is, it will be sometime in 2011. Here's to a great and prosperous New Year!

***

After spending a fun Christmas holiday with my family, I spent the last two days reminiscing on Christmases Past.

Every December, my mother would assemble the Nativity set to display in a corner of the living room. When I was very small, I would sit on the floor and watch her carefully remove each porcelain piece from the box and place it in the wooden stable. As I grew, I was the one placing the pieces in the stable (with Mom's help). Finally, it became my task to set up the Nativity scene all by myself. I felt honored to be so trusted. It was significant.

My family attended a Christmas Eve Candlelight Service every year at my church. This was my favorite holiday tradition. Yes, I loved getting presents, eating great food and seeing family, but there was something magical about a darkened and quiet sanctuary in the midst of a bustling season. We would dress in our church best and my sisters would curl my hair and gloss my lips. Remember, I was a tomboy.

We would enter the sanctuary and an usher would hand each of us a small, white candle in a cardboard holder. While the choir sang beautiful Christmas carols and the pastor read the story of Christ's birth from the Bible, I twirled that small, white candle around and around in my sweaty little palms. The building was lit only by candelabras circling the room.

At the very end of the service, the pastor would take a glowing taper from the altar and light the small, white candle of the first person in the first pew. Then, as the choir and congregation softly sang the strains of "Silent Night," the candlelight would steadily spread across the room. The last verse was always sung a capella, to simulate the very first time the song was sung. After the last chords died out, a reverent silence enveloped the auditorium. Emmanuel, God with us.

***

Momala's Book Club Pick: My darling, wonderful Hubster gave me a Kindle for Christmas. I have already loaded four books on it: "Travels With Charley" and "Cannery Row" by John Steinbeck, "Ann Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl" and Jan Karon's latest, "In the Company of Others: A Father Tim Novel." So far, I love it! I'll keep you updated on the books.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did three aerobic workouts last week. Plus, a whole lot of cleaning and wrapping and working and running around!

***

Notable Quote:

"Everywhere I have sought rest and not found it, except sitting in a corner by myself with a book."--Thomas `a Kempis

Christmas Roundup

2010-12-20T21:30:00.005-06:00

I just got home from a Christmas Concert. I've been saying that a lot lately, because it's been happening a lot lately. I've been to the high school jazz band concert, the middle school band concert, the Cowley College Vespers Concert, the middle school choir concert and the high school choir concert. That's a lot of singing!

There were three versions of "Silent Night," two types of "Have a Holly, Jolly Christmas" and even a Caribbean Christmas carol. I heard several of my favorites: "Carol of the Bells," "I'll Be Home for Christmas" and "I Wonder As I Wander." It just doesn't seem like Christmas until I hear one of those.

***

The Hubster and I attended the Kansas Writers Association Christmas Party on Saturday afternoon. It was potluck, with a book gift exchange, "Dirty Santa" style. I enjoyed introducing my husband to all my writer friends. They're all so cool! In the photo above, I'm discussing business cards with new member Samantha LaFantasie (yes, that's her real name!).

***

After the KWA party, The Hubster and I dropped down to Derby to visit my mom. She had cooked up a great dinner and invited us and Sarah and Derek to come eat and decorate her Christmas tree. We had such a good time, talking about wedding plans for Sarah and Derek and telling old family Christmas stories.

***

Amidst all the hubbub of church dinners and parties and cards and wrapping gifts and cooking, I have gotten a bit stressed. So I will grab my Bible tonight and read the old, old story in Luke, and center myself. "Rest in Me," He bids. And so I will.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did four aerobic workouts last week. I hadn't weighed myself in a month. When I did today, I was down three more pounds. Maybe I'll do that more often.

***

Notable Quote:

"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace."--Isaiah 9:6 (KJV)

What is Eternally True About You?

2010-12-13T19:35:00.005-06:00

I have been searching the Scripture the past couple of weeks, working on a project of a purely personal nature. But, of course, I have to share it with you. You know me, I can't keep anything to myself!

Looking up Bible verses can be a rather involved process. First, you pick out a key word, look it up and it leads you to 20-30 other key words and phrases. Before you know it...whoosh! You've spent a couple of hours wading waist-deep in the mighty surf that is the Word of God.

The subject I was researching was God's promises to His people, namely me. Sometimes I forget how God made me exactly the way He wanted me to be. Yes, goofiness and all. He gave me a tender heart and a big vocabulary and a strong back and a smart brain. He wants me to be the fullest and greatest me I can be, if that makes any sense at all. A whole, strong woman, fully committed to my life and Him.

Zephaniah 3:17 (KJV)
The LORD thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing.

This verse holds beautiful, rich promises just for me. He will rejoice over "me" with joy...He will joy over "me" with singing...I like that!

Isaiah 49:5 (KJV)
And now, saith the LORD that formed me from the womb to be his servant, to bring Jacob again to him, Though Israel be not gathered, yet shall I be glorious in the eyes of the LORD, and my God shall be my strength.

Wow! The Lord thinks I'm glorious! I'm going to take that one and run. The next time I get a really lousy case of the "poor pitiful Pearls," I'm going to read this verse again. And again, until it sinks in to stay. Thanks, God!

***

Momala's Book Club Pick: I read "Sam & Angel" last week, by Tom Junkins, a Winfield author. Tom is a Cowley County Writers Guild member and this novel is one fun ride, from start to finish. Give it to a guy in your life who wants to live vicariously through the protagonist's lavish, adventure-filled lifestyle. Message me if you want a copy. Three out of five stars.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did four aerobic workouts last week. My daughter noticed that I was losing weight last week. Yippee!

***

Notable Quote:
"Desserts is stressed spelled backwards."--Sonic Drive-In

Read All About It!

2010-12-06T19:13:00.002-06:00

My name is Carol, and I am a bookaholic. I guess if you have to be addicted to something, books aren't so bad. I blame my mother. Don't we all blame our mothers for every little thing? My mom made me love books. Thanks, Mom!

When I was really young, Mom read to me. Then I took over, and took off! I just couldn't stop. It felt powerful to me, to be able to read anything and everything I wanted. The more I read, the more I wanted to read.

So I did. By the time I was 8 or 9 years old, I was reading Dickens, Twain, Hawthorne, Steinbeck and Michener. No, I didn't understand every word, but I kept on reading until I did. I got to know the school and city librarians personally, and they didn't mind answering the endless questions of a silly little girl obsessed with books.

When the William Allen White awards list came out every year, I was the first to line up and read them all. Same thing for the Newbery Awards. I kept a box in my closet with the ribbons and certificates I won for reading the entire list, year after year.

I was a restless kid. No, they didn't call it ADHD back then. I was a good student, but I always wanted to move. Books helped me travel without moving. I grew up in Derby, but in my mind, I had lived all over the world. I had a good group of friends, but no one understood me the way books did. Okay, that's a little weird...but heartfelt.

If you're looking for some good Christmas gift ideas, how about a book? Here are my picks:

For the little ones: get any title or the whole set of Dr. Seuss and Curious George books. I still love to read them!

For young readers: Start them off right with the Berenstain Bears chapter books or the Junie B. Jones books by Barbara Park.

For 11-14 year-olds: For girls, "Anne Frank: Diary of a Young Girl." This book changed my life. Enough said. At this age, some boys aren't really into books. Bring them back to the couch with "Brute" by Mike Klaassen, Kansas author. His books are an exciting ride.

For teens: I have given the Christian Chiller series by Kathryn Mackel as gifts. Also, "The Other Boleyn Girl" by Philippa Gregory or any Amy Tan book.

For adults: I highly recommend "Feisty Family Values" by B.D. Tharp, Wichita author. "Holidays on Ice" and "Santaland Diaries" by David Sedaris, or "I Was Told There'd be Cake" by Sloane Crosley are great books.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did three aerobic workouts. It was all migraines, all the time last week. Ugh!

***

Notable Quote:

"I would be most content if my children grew up to be the kind of people who think decorating consists mostly of building enough bookshelves."--Anna Quindlen, "Enough Bookshelves," New York Times, 7 August 1991

Worry is a Waste of Time

2010-11-29T14:47:00.010-06:00

I admit it. I am a worrier. But I'm reformed. Ask The Hubster. I used to drive him crazy with all my "what ifs," constantly wondering about the next bill, the next holiday, the next appliance to break down. Sadder than anything was, I thought all women were like that. At least all the women I knew.

Growing up, I worried about getting homework done on time, if a cute boy would ask me out, where I would go to college and what I would major in. Although I did pray about the big stuff, I didn't want to "bother" God with the mundane details of my life. So I worried them myself.

After I married and had kids, I had lots more things to worry about. Some of these things I could take care of, but most were above my pay-grade. So I would pray about an issue and then instead of turning it over to God completely, I would take it back to worry over it some more. Kind of like carrying around a backpack full of boulders.

Intellectually, I knew that worrying was getting me nowhere. The problems didn't go away. I just felt worse. In my heart, in my soul, I ached for an answer. And then it came.

During a Bible study, I found that "fear not" is mentioned 379 times in Scripture. Whoa! As a lifelong student of English, I also knew that "fear not" is a command, not a suggestion. Who was I kidding? This little "habit" of worrying I had gotten myself into was a downward spiral right into sin. That's right. Worry is a sin.

That got my attention...quickly. How audacious I was to think that I could handle things better than God could! This was not something I could just flip a switch on, though. Those lazy habits I had gotten into year after year would have to be unlearned. This was going to take some practice and persistence.

Some days, I would lug that backpack of boulders to the foot of the cross 12-15 times per day, and then pick it right back up again. Ugh! Slowly, ever so slowly, I left it there. Just a little victory, day by day. I can't say that I'm 100 percent reformed now. I am what I am, but praise God, I'm not what I used to be.

***

Cyber Monday is today, and I got my wish lists, my coupon codes and my comfy clothes ready early. First thing this morning, I hit Amazon hard! Let's just say that I'm expecting a big hug from the UPS guy in a couple of days.

***

Momala's Book Club Pick: I read "Julie" last week, during the holiday. Written by Catherine Marshall, author of "Christy" and "A Man Called Peter," this inspirational author penned a story about a young woman whose family lives in small-town Pennsylvania during the Great Depression. Julie has dreams of going to college and becoming a journalist, but first she must help her father save their newspaper from the local tyrant. Clean, and a fast read. Three out of five stars.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did five aerobic workouts last week. The Holiday Diet Wrecker Monster has been vanquished!

***

Notable Quote:

"Worrying is like a rocking chair, it gives you something to do, but it gets you nowhere."--Glenn Turner

Giving Thanks

2010-11-22T19:10:00.006-06:00

Thanksgiving is upon us! What am I thankful for this year? I am grateful to God for my chaotic life (that I love!), for my health, my family, the best Hubster in the world, a fun job and most of all...for the vision that God has given me to pursue writing as a ministry and not just a fun pastime. Most of all, I want to remember to always be grateful for the abundant blessings I have to enjoy.

***

At the monthly Kansas Writers Association meeting on Saturday, the guest speaker was renowned travel writer (and native Kansan) Rolf Potts. Author of two books, "Vagabonding" and "Marco Polo Didn't Go There," Rolf travels the world and contributes to such publications as National Geographic Traveler, New York Times Magazine, National Public Radio and the Travel Channel. He has walked across Israel, driven a Land Rover from California to Argentina and recently returned from a trip that encompassed 20 countries, six weeks and no luggage! Look up his next adventure at: www.rolfpotts.com.

Some folks would think, "What a fantastic life he must have!" Rolf assured us that it's not all glamour. For every trip he makes sailing around the Greek Isles with bikini-clad women, he spends several frigid weeks in a Mongolian yurt. Still, it would be pretty cool to make your living traveling the world. Here's my list of places I want to visit...someday!

1. Road trip up the California Coast on Highway 101
2. A month on the Amalfi Coast of Italy
3. Stay at the Chateau Lake Louise, Banff, Alberta, Canada
4. Israel
5. A trip on the Trans-Continental Railway across Canada

***

The Cowley County Writers Guild's Book Talk last Thursday night was a blast! We had an SRO crowd and lots of folks lined up to purchase books from local authors. Thanks to all the members that helped and also to all you readers who made it a great night.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did four aerobic workouts last week. Got to keep moving...holidays are upon us!

***

Notable Quote:

1 Chronicles 16:34 (KJV)
"O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever."

Kicking it Old School

2010-11-15T18:59:00.010-06:00

The University of Missouri College of Engineering Scholarship Banquet was held last Thursday night. Around southern Kansas, that's not a very exciting event, but to me, it's definitely not-to-be-missed. You see, after my father passed away, my sister, Laura, suggested that our family honor him by starting a scholarship at his alma mater. My dad attended MU-Columbia in the 1950's after returning from serving in the Air Force during the Korean Conflict.

Every fall, members of my family travel to Columbia to meet our latest scholarship recipient and honor my father's memory. This year, my sister, Laura, myself and my mother traveled to be there. We got a couple of rooms at a hotel on campus and made a "girls night out" out of it. We had a lot of fun talking and looking around the campus together.

Our latest student, Jacob Miller, Liberty, MO, was so cool! He's a freshman mechanical engineering student, with two sisters already in college, so you know he and his family can use the help. He was an honor student in high school, taking 40 credits of AP classes, but more than that, this was a really great guy. We're so proud that he's representing my dad's name at the university. Next year...TWO STUDENTS!

***

"Back to the 80's" was a fun, fast-paced musical put on by Ark City High School students last weekend. I enjoyed Saturday night's performance of high-stepping, high-energy antics. The play centered on senior year at a high school in the 1980's, and all the student council elections, dating catastrophes, prom nights and anonymous love notes that involves. The music was great; all the artists we loved: Cindi Lauper, Michael Jackson, Rick Astley and Madonna. There was a live band on stage the entire time, comprised of Conner Coldwell, Cameron Crabtree, Rebecca Tast and Jeff Adams. My favorite performances were by actors Shane Clark, Joe Descartes, Mary Beth Byers, Rachel McAfee, Brenda Mapel and David Bartlett. Great job, guys!

***

The Cowley County Writers Guild will host a special Book Talk/Book Signing event at Ark City Public Library at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, November 18, 2010. Celebrating National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo), local authors Grant Williams, Dr. Steve Swaim and Tom Junkins will be discussing their latest books and Rik Tanos, of Tanos Publishing, Coffeyville, KS, will provide information on book publishing. Refreshments will be served and don't forget to pick up a signed copy of one of their books!

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I only did three aerobic workouts last week, due to my travel schedule. I also did some walking around the MU campus and cleaned the church on Saturday morning.

***

Notable Quote:

"A lot of fellows nowadays have a B.A., M.D., or Ph.D. Unfortunately, they don't have a J.O.B."--"Fats" Domino

Talking About Women

2010-11-08T20:09:00.007-06:00

Well, folks, I am bushed! Last weekend, I attended the Women of Faith Conference in Kansas City with my mom. We boarded a bus on Thursday evening, joined by a bunch of church ladies from the Wichita area. Let me tell you, we were a rowdy crowd. Anybody who says Christians don't know how to have fun is misinformed.

Conference speakers included Luci Swindoll, Sheila Walsh, Lisa Harper, Karen James and Kim Cash Tate. A very special guest speaker (not a woman!) was Marcus Buckingham, the world's leading authority on finding your strengths. The theme this year was "Imagine." Encouraging the eight thousand attendees to dream big, this team spoke on finding your strengths and gifts, trusting God to lead and paying attention to God's Word and will for your life. We heard compelling life stories, too, and lots of great music. Natalie Grant, Mary Mary and the Women of Faith Worship Team provided lots of fun songs to sing along.

As if two days of women, worship and fun weren't enough, I stayed all night with my mom on Saturday and woke up to the intoxicating aroma of pancakes the next morning. How lovely! After Sunday School at my childhood church, I was surprised with a request: I was asked to be the acolyte (candle lighter) during the call to worship. It's just like riding a bike, though, I hadn't forgotten.

The maraschino cherry on the top of this weekend's sundae was the Veteran's Dinner held at my mom's church on Sunday afternoon. Everyone brought soups and desserts and all the area vets were invited as special guests. The most special guest for me was The Hubster, who came to enjoy the dinner and take me home to Ark City. When I saw that handsome man in the Navy cap walk through the door, my knees wobbled big-time!

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did four aerobic workouts last week. Also did lots of walking around the Sprint Center and Power & Light District in KC. Even with restaurant meals, I lost one pound.

***

Notable Quote:

"...how trust turns nightmares into exhilarating moments when we are fully convinced of the trustworthiness of the One who is moving our lives along. It is about how trust is the greatest gift that we can give our Father--a gift of immeasurable beauty."--Sheila Walsh, "Beautiful Things Happen When a Woman Trusts God"

Inside, Outside, Upside Down

2010-11-01T17:11:00.011-05:00

As I sat outside on the back steps this morning, my first thought was, "Dang, it's cold!" I had just finished getting fresh water for the outside cats. The Hubster and I call the stray cats that hang around our neighborhood "outside" cats. There are five mostly feral felines feeding at our home twice daily. Not an easy task...to say or do.

Two of these cats, Simon and Lady Cat, are friendly and will sit with me and let me pet them. The other three, Scotchie, Dino and Missy, not so much. They run away when I open the kitchen door. After dark, when the temperatures fall, these kitties sit on the steps and look into the door at my warm home and "inside" cats.

They accept the kindness of the full food and water dishes every day, and they have come to expect this to be a daily occurrence. They return day after day, year after year. We have never shown any aggression or violence toward them, but they still don't trust us. And they don't want to come into the house.

I wonder how much my behavior is like an "outside" cat. God meets all my daily needs and simply wants to sit and fellowship with me. I accept all His many blessings, but can't give up my "wild" ways. When God calls me from the kitchen door, instead of running into His open arms, sometimes I just run in the opposite direction. One day, that door will close forever. I don't want to be stuck outside in the cold, looking into His warm Heavenly abode.

***

Female in Motion Blog Update: Last week's blog entry (Red Bird Mission)caused quite a commotion among my readers. As a result, I decided to send a link of this entry to Red Bird Mission and also submitted it as a devotion manuscript to "Upper Room" magazines. I'll keep you updated as to my writing endeavors.

***

Momala's Book Club: I'm reading former First Lady Laura Bush's autobiography "Spoken From the Heart." Most autobiographies by celebrities are "ghost-written," but this one is not. Regardless of your politics, Mrs. Bush has written a compelling, articulate book about her personal and political life. Three out of five stars.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did four 30-minute aerobic workouts last week. I keep gaining and losing the same three pounds. Ugh!

***

Notable Quote:

2 Corinthians 1:3-5 (KJV)
3 Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort;
4 Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.
5 For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ.

It's the Story of my Life

2010-10-25T19:17:00.011-05:00

His name was Adam, and he changed my life. I met him the summer before my junior year in high school. I was 15 years old in June 1978, and I was pretty satisfied with my life. I had a comfortable home and parents who loved me. My biggest problems were which jeans to wear to school and what movie to see on the weekend.

Before you jump to a bunch of crazy conclusions, let me enlighten you. I was selected to go on a Mission Education Tour through my church, Madison Avenue United Methodist Church in Derby, KS. Each church nominates a teen girl every year to tour several missions of the UMC. Thirty silly teenage girls from Kansas hopped on a bus and rode around the country, eating potluck meals, sleeping in church gymnasiums and fighting for mirror space the whole way through.

The tour included a Goodwill warehouse in Oklahoma City, which employed a number of intellectually challenged adults, an inner-city soup kitchen in Memphis and Red Bird Mission, high in the Smoky Mountains of Beverly, KY. Red Bird provides education, nutrition, health care, job training and spiritual support for hundreds of poverty-stricken folks who inhabit those green hills. And that's where I met Adam.

All of the girls were asked to form small teams to help all over the Red Bird campus for the two days we visited. My friend, Sheila liked kids, so she suggested we go to the daycare center. As we entered the room, 20 preschoolers were finishing an art project. Their teacher suggested we read to the children and handed me a book. I moved to a large, open area on the floor, sat down and began to read.

Something happened then, that's hard to explain. As I read, these young ones came closer to me, as if my words were physically drawing them in. My voice rose and fell with the rhythm of the story and I used my face and hands to express the words. That's when Adam, wearing an orange, flowered cardigan and shoes two sizes too big, snuggled into my lap. The back of his neck was dirty and it looked as if his fingernails needed a good scrubbing.

I ended up reading three stories in a row and then stayed on to help with snack time. Adam never left my side the rest of the day. I never realized how great it could feel, being needed. These kids, with so little, were giving me a gift that would last my whole life. I could make a difference, just by showing up. My life, up to that point had been so sheltered, so easy, and I didn't even know it.

When the tour bus pulled out the next afternoon, I kept my head pointed out the window. I couldn't stop the tears from flowing. My ears rang with the goodbyes of the preschoolers, especially Adam. His light blue eyes pierced my heart as he clung to my leg when we left. The church tour was meant to be educational, and I got one.

No, I didn't become a teacher, or a missionary, or a nurse. I became a storyteller. And so I am a teacher, a missionary and a nurse, of sorts. When I share my words, I want to create scenes, characters and situations that readers can relate to, or dream about. I want to touch hearts, like God touched mine in Kentucky.

***

Momala's Book Club: I finally finished "So Long, Insecurity" by Beth Moore. It took a long time, because it was an intense, emotional book. I waded through a lot of ancient personal history and cleared out a cellar-full of bad emotions. I highly recommend this to all women, especially mothers of girls. You won't regret it. (I've already loaned out two copies of the book.) Five out of five stars.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did four workouts last week. The aerobics are still proving to be a good time.

***

Notable Quote:

“A hundred years from now it will not matter what my bank account was, the sort of house I lived in, or the kind of car I drove...but the world may be different because I was important in the life of a child.”--Forest E. Witcraft, American scholar, teacher and scout leader (1894-1967)

Frozen in Time

2010-10-18T18:14:00.012-05:00

I read a story in The Telegraph, an online British newspaper, last week that captured my imagination. Captured is too mild. I was mesmerized. For 70 years, a Parisian apartment had been closed, rent paid up, but untouched since World War II. Wouldn't it be amazing to spend an afternoon poking around in the corners of a true time capsule?

The owner of the 9th arrondissement apartment died earlier this year. Turns out she was the granddaughter of Marthe de Florian, an actress who was also the muse of Giovanni Boldini (1842-1931), an Italian portrait painter who was known as The Master of Swish. When officials finally opened the apartment door and hacked their way through the cobwebs, they found a treasure trove of priceless antique furniture, ardent love letters and one very valuable Boldini painting of the apartment owner's beautiful grandmother. "Woman in a pink muslin evening dress" sold at auction for 2.1 million Euros. I think art collectors are romantics at heart.

***

Momala's Movie Pick: Last Friday, The Hubster and I celebrated a really banner month for RDS, our company, by having a night out on the town. We treated ourselves to dinner and a great movie at The Balcony in the Warren Theater East in Wichita. If you haven't been to The Balcony or even to a Warren Theater, you must go. It is a whole different level of entertainment. At The Balcony, you set in plush, heated love seats. We ordered our dinner from a full menu, or we could go the regular route of cokes and popcorn. The well-trained wait staff is summoned by a small red light on your table. I adore the pampering. It sure spoils me for any other movie experience.

The movie we saw was "Red," starring a dazzling array of Hollywood heavy hitters: Bruce Willis, Helen Mirren, John Malkovich, Morgan Freeman, Richard Dreyfuss and a very special cameo appearance by Ernest Borgnine. I loved this film! It seemed so much like the "caper" movies from the 60's, full of fun and adventure. "Red" had a tight, well-constructed story, with some violence and adult situations. It's about a group of retired CIA agents that fight back after being marked for execution. Rated PG-13. Four out of five stars.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did four aerobic workouts last week. You should see the cats line up to watch me huff and puff. Hilarious!

***

Notable Quote:

"The most beautiful make-up of a woman is passion. But cosmetics are easier to buy."--Yves Saint Laurent

Falling for Autumn

2010-10-11T18:15:00.011-05:00

On our way home from Dallas last weekend, The Hubster and I stopped at Turner Falls, OK. It's one of those places you always mean to stop and never get around to it. After all the hub bub of the weekend and fighting the Sooner traffic, we decided we needed a quiet interlude. I think a trip should calm you down, not just get you out of town.

Just a couple miles off I-35 highway in southern Oklahoma, the rustic Turner Falls recreation area is nestled in the Arbuckle Mountains. Featuring limestone cliffs and a playfully shallow Honey Creek, this would make a perfect picnic spot. Families were enjoying the day together, creek wading, grilling and hiking some of the prettiest hills in Oklahoma. Winter admission is cheap, just four bucks per person. There are cabins and camping spots for rent, but we just strolled the grounds, took photos and soaked up the positive ions emanating from the falls.

***

Momala's Video Pick of the Week: The Hubster and I had a Netflix double feature on Friday night. First up was "Letters to Juliet," a romantic comedy set in sunny Italy. The film starred Vanessa Redgrave and Amanda Seyfried. Rated PG, it was a fun, light movie. Act II was "Julie & Julia." This unique film tells two food stories: the first, how Julia Child became the French food authority and the second, how Julie Powell became a blogging phenomenon while cooking her way through Julia Child's cookbook, "Mastering the Art of French Cooking." Rated PG-13, this film has strong language and some adult situations, but the food is worth it.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did four aerobic workouts last week and cleaned the church, rearranged furniture in two bedrooms, cleaned out my clothes closet and my linen closet. I weighed myself this morning: 190 pounds.

***

Notable Quote:

"Invest in yourself. You're worth it."--B.D. Tharp, author of Feisty Family Values

La Dolce Vita in the Big D

2010-10-04T19:18:00.012-05:00

Our daughter, Rachel, and son-in-law, Drew moved to Dallas, TX in August. The Hubster and I are close to our kids and try to see them as often as we can. Or, as often as they can stomach it. Anyway, we jumped at the chance to make a trip down south to see their new digs.

Their apartment complex is a big, new, "green" build with all the best amenities: multi-level pool, gorgeous welcome center, sophisticated and modern style, interior parking garage, recycling program, pet friendly and charming courtyards with loads of flowers, seating and grills for outdoor meals. As a mom, I appreciated all the safety measures. We were pleased to stay in a guest suite on the property and use all the facilities. It's like a resort!

The neighborhood Rachel and Drew live in is super-cool. Addison is full of upscale restaurants, retail stores, beautiful homes and apartments, new schools, pretty churches and synagogues and tons of parks with trees. Everywhere you looked was green and lush. We made visits to a kosher Tom Thumb grocery store, Whole Foods, Avenue and Designer Shoe Warehouse.

Our family celebrates with food, so this weekend was definitely a party. We started off with dinner at The Melting Pot, a fondue place. You get to cook your own stuff in a big pot on the table. Fun for foodies! On Saturday, we had brunch at Corner Bakery Cafe, which was a perfect spot. I couldn't believe how many people eat outside in Texas. I'm used to windy Kansas.

The place Rachel works is really neat, too. She is "Director of First Impressions" at a local nursing school. (That means she works in reception.) Our kid gave us the grand tour and introduced us to some of her co-workers. Everyone there is really friendly. You can't beat Southern manners.

If you know my family, you are probably aware that we are not big sports fans. An average drive from Ark City to Dallas would take about five hours. Ours took seven on the way down and six on the way home. The Red River Rivalry reared its ugly head. Yes, the annual OU/UT game was last weekend and thousands of rabid Sooners made for the border and took us along for the ride. Our car crawled from Gainesville to downtown Dallas at a whopping 20 miles per hour, sometimes less.

Don't get me wrong, football is fun for a lot of people. And I wouldn't begrudge those folks even one TD in double-overtime. But it sure was funny to see the long line of Longhorn fans blasting "We Will Rock You" and waving goodbye at the Texas border. We just smiled and honked our horn.

When you're a parent, you need to see where your child is living and where they work. If you can picture them in their surroundings, then it gives you a lot of peace. Rachel and Drew took a big risk when they moved. It paid off. They're happy. You can see it on their faces. God is good!

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did three aerobic workouts last week. I also did a lot of walking(shopping and sightseeing) in Texas. I'll get back to normal this week.

***

Notable Quote:

"The reason women don't play football is because eleven of them would never wear the same outfit in public."--Phyllis Diller

Kill Cancer!

2010-09-27T19:17:00.008-05:00

My life has been touched by cancer. That's not so unusual. Everyone has a cancer story. Maybe your aunt or grandpa or second cousin twice removed had it. Everyone hates cancer...but who's going to do something about it?

I am a cancer survivor. My mother and sister conquered breast cancer. My father died of lung cancer. The Hubster has a chronic cancer condition. Loads of my other relatives have been touched by the disease. I don't want to lose any more loved ones. I don't want to see anyone else suffer. Let's take back control. Researchers are working hard to find a cure. Why can't we do our part?

What's my part, you ask? Take better care of the body that God has given you. Eat right (yes, vegetables!), exercise more days than not, drink water, not soda, and see a doctor regularly. Most importantly, stop smoking! And if you don't smoke, don't you dare start!

I don't want to ever witness another person I love suffer the agony that is cancer. Life is too precious and people are too important. We all deserve long, happy lives filled with loud birthday parties and funny movie nights and snarky Facebook posts. Take good care of yourself. We need you!

***

I spent the day with my mom last Thursday. She was holding a garage sale and I went up to hinder (uh, help) her. It was a blustery, drizzly day with a touch of fall in the air. This was affirmed by a very industrious squirrel who spent the day racing back and forth across the driveway, gathering nuts. He made trip after trip from the pecan tree in Mom's neighbors' yard, loaded up his jaws with nuts, then hustled back to her property.

He was burying the pecans in holes around the yard, except if we ventured over to watch him work. Then he would sit perfectly still like a Buckingham Palace sentry until we retreated back to the garage. He got more and more ambitious (read: frenzied), and went from carrying one or two pecans in his mouth, to four at a time. What a show off!

***

The Hubster and I ran into Walgreens on Sunday to pick up some earplugs. (I snore, not him!) While we were there we noticed that Duracell now makes a 4gb flash drive. Yeah, the battery company. Weird, huh? Here's the kicker: the flash drive included a bonus. The entire Encyclopedia Britannica. Ha!

My parents owned the entire Encyclopedia Britannica and as a kid I used it quite often as a reference for school reports or papers. The volumes took up two shelves on a rather large bookcase. The new Duracell flash drive, measuring three inches, includes the Encyclopedia Britannica as a free add-on. Yup, I'm officially older than dirt.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did four disco aerobic workouts last week and added another song onto the routine, so I'm now doing four more minutes per session. Lots more huffing and puffing.

***

Notable Quote:

1 Corinthians 6:19 (KJV)
"What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?"

Traveling in Style

2010-09-20T19:20:00.006-05:00

I took quite a little road trip on Saturday. First, I was up at 6 a.m. and on the road by 7:15. That is completely out of character for me, because I am NOT a morning person. I had motivation, however. The Fall meeting of the Kansas Authors Club District #3 was in Coffeyville on Saturday, and I wanted to be there.

Being a member of one of the oldest and most prestigious writers groups in America is a privilege I don't take lightly. This district only meets twice per year, so I make an extra effort to attend. Besides, our group is hosting the State Convention in Fall 2011, so we need to get organized. We discussed fund-raising efforts, the convention and writing projects, then enjoyed a tasty potluck lunch.

That was only half of my day, though. I arrived home around 2 p.m., and by 3:30 The Hubster and I were back on the road to Wichita. After a quick stop in Derby to pick up my mom, we were ready for The Hubster's birthday party at Kanai Restaurant in west Wichita. Our daughter, Sarah, and her fiance, Derek, met us there. Kanai is the best sushi place in Wichita, in their expert opinion, so we definitely wanted to try it.

Not everyone is a sushi lover. It's absolutely an acquired taste. I will admit that I don't care much for fish, so I was skeptical. I found Kanai's fare to be fresh, colorful and very good. I'm so glad I gave sushi a try. Trying new things is important, especially as we age. How else are we going to scratch things off our bucket lists?

All that time on the road reminded me of a childhood dream I have long since given up. As a kid, I read a book about a family of four that spent a year in an RV, traveling across the United States and having lots of adventures. Later, my family went to the Sport, Boat and Travel Show at Century II in Wichita. I wandered through trailer after trailer, fifth-wheel, pop-up and self-contained. I was hooked.

No matter how much I whined, my folks never did buy an RV. That is, until I left. The minute the last kid moved out, my folks started an antique car parts business, purchased a trailer and spent several years traveling the U.S. And not once did they invite me to tag along. How rude!

Anyway, The Hubster and I never purchased an RV, either. And we didn't spend a year traveling the country with our daughters. They would have hated it. But maybe someday we will make a big road trip. We've kicked around the idea of Route 66 out to California, then do Highway 1 all the way to Monterey. If we do, I'll be sure to post pictures.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did four aerobic workouts last week. I am no longer wheezing at the end of each routine, so I upped my time by one more song. That's an extra five minutes and I'm slowly building up the endurance.

***

Notable Quote:

"An author is a fool who, not content with boring those he lives with, insists on boring future generations."--Charles de Montesquieu (1689-1755) Thanks, H.B.!

When God Doesn't Make Sense

2010-09-13T19:45:00.005-05:00

Two things have happened recently that really claw at the fabric of my faith. Not that I am questioning God. My human brain just can't comprehend that there is such suffering and grief in this world. When it reaches out and slaps you in the face, it makes you stop and take a look at why you believe, what you believe.

A five-year-old boy I know fell ill several days ago and had to be hospitalized. He soon fell into a deep coma. Last weekend, he was declared brain-dead and his family had to make the impossible decision to take him off life support. He passed away on Sunday. My heart goes out to this suffering family.

A dear friend is recovering from a life-threatening illness and hospitalization. His wife had x-rays last week, and was found to have two large tumors on her brain. They are good and generous people with a vital ministry to this community. I am praying daily that God will restore the health of these two precious souls.

What do you say when God doesn't make sense? That God does make sense. Life doesn't. Life is full of heartache and sin and pain. God is full of grace and truth and peace. When life brings heartache, God gives us grace to face the challenges. When we sin, God shows us the truth of His Word. And when life is painful, God gives us peace to bear up under the pressure.

I don't always understand what God's plan is, for my life or anyone else's. God doesn't make bad things happen. We all have choices in this sin-filled world. But I know that He is always faithful and always ready to comfort our breaking hearts. So I will cling to Him, because sometimes, that's all you can do.

***

I will be heading out to Coffeyville for the semi-annual Kansas Authors Club District #3 meeting on Saturday. This is a great group of authors and writers who are prolific in their endeavors. We will have lunch together, conduct some business and talk about our favorite subject.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did five aerobic workouts last week. I started weighing myself every Monday morning. I had a big surprise last week. I have lost 14 pounds since May. Wow, how did that happen?

Also, my little black dress (LBD) was getting kind of big, so I bought a new one (size 14) last week while shopping in Wichita with my mom. Great to have my fashion advisor with me while trying on clothes!

***

Notable Quote:

2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 (KJV)
"Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace, Comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work."

You Haven't Aged a Bit!

2010-09-06T16:36:00.007-05:00

The Derby High School Class of 1980 reunion was held last weekend. The Hubster and I attended the Saturday night event, a get-together at a Wichita sports bar. It's a funny thing, how you can walk through an ordinary-looking doorway and enter into a parallel dimension. I walked into an Old Town drinking establishment and entered the hallways of my high school, circa 1980.

It was great to talk to several people that I hadn't seen since I graduated. Most were friends from choir (I was a vocal music nerd). The mixed ensemble I was in my senior year was called Madrigals. We performed all over the region for all kinds of groups and occasions. The guys wore snappy suits and us gals were decked out in what we referred to as "glorified bathrobes." See Facebook profile picture to the right of this entry for a glimpse. We were good, despite the gowns.

The Hubster and I had to leave the reunion early, due to his back pain, but it was interesting to see all the folks I left behind in May, 1980.

***

Today is Labor Day, the last blast of summer, and I can feel Fall coming on. In Wichita this weekend, the evening was cool and I was grateful for a sweater around my shoulders. On Sunday morning as we went to brunch at The Anchor with our daughter and her fiance, the weather was cool and breezy. Although the sun is beating down this afternoon, the heat feels listless and fleeting, almost like it knows that soon winter will be upon us.

Don't get me wrong. Autumn is my favorite season. I love the crisp mornings, followed by sunny afternoons, topped off with cool evenings and beautiful sunsets. I can't wait to get out my cords and sweaters. Soon, though, the sun will wane to almost nothing and the cold winds and leaden skies of winter will be upon us. Maybe the Farmer's Almanac will be right and we'll have a mild one this year.

***

Thanks to everyone who sent a message regarding last week's blog entry. I had a large and enthusiastic response. Because of this, I am reworking and expanding the entry to full-sized devotion length and will be submitting it to Chicken Soup for the Soul and/or Guideposts. I'll keep you posted!

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did four aerobic workouts last week and cleaned the church on Saturday, followed by a busy holiday weekend.

***

Notable Quote:

"Growing old is mandatory; growing up is optional."--Chili Davis

Even So

2010-08-30T15:15:00.005-05:00

For well over a year, I have been faithfully reading a daily blog by Holley Gerth, a writer for Dayspring Cards. "Heart to Heart with Holley" is a devotional diary, but so much more. She just "gets" me. It's like she's crawling around inside my head. Oh, my, that's a scary thought!

Today's blog entry from Holley was delving into the subject of overcoming obstacles. She says, "...the biggest challenge has been the voice inside my head. It's the one that says, 'You can never do this, This is in the way. That won't ever change.'" As she was praying one night, Holley asked God, "What do I say instead?" (to silence the negative voices in her head). The author says the answer was clear. Even so.

That set me thinking. I have battled negative voices in my mind since I was young. They began outside from another, but I picked up the mantra and continued to batter myself with insults. My favorites were "you're not good enough" and "nobody likes you anyway." After a lot of prayer and counseling and soul-searching, those thoughts are fading.

I'm halfway through reading a book called "So Long, Insecurity" by Beth Moore. She theorizes that the majority of women struggle with self-worth at least some point in their lives. Insecurity is a very private problem. It's not something you discuss with friends over coffee or at a church social. But maybe that's a mistake. Maybe we should be talking about it openly and candidly.

Those negative thoughts return once in a while. I have learned to ask myself, "Is this the truth? Is it based in reality?" Now, I will include, "Even so." Yes, I'm a mess on my own. Good thing that God is good and loves me wildly, despite my many(!) faults.

***

My 30th high school class reunion is this weekend. The Hubster and I will be attending and I will present a full report (with photos) next week. Fun!

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did four disco aerobic workouts last week and a passel of heavy-duty housework. I lost one more pound, as well.

***

Painting is by Birgit Huttemann-Holz, 2008, and is entitled Silent Poetry.

***

Notable Quote:

Deuteronomy 28:1-2 (KJV)
"And it shall come to pass, if thou shalt hearken diligently unto the voice of the LORD thy God, to observe and to do all his commandments which I command thee this day, that the LORD thy God will set thee on high above all nations of the earth:
2 And all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy God."

Small(er) Victory

2010-08-23T15:38:00.007-05:00

As I write, I am wearing a pair of St. John's Bay misses size 16 jeans, with the zipper and button done! They said it couldn't be done...but I did it. I guess all those weeks of aerobic workouts are paying off. In the last few months, I have lost five more pounds. Not a moment too soon, either, my high school class reunion is coming up!

***

I did something kind of gutsy on Saturday, or maybe just dumb. I attended the Kansas Writers Association's monthly meeting in Wichita, and read the first two pages of my novel-in-progress to a critique group. The experience was humbling (some people's work was more polished, mature, better), scary (it was the first time anyone besides The Hubster heard it), but ultimately helpful.

People in my group gave me some great ideas for the opening, so I set about to implement some of these on Sunday afternoon, after church. However, I had a nasty migraine, so my brain was pretty much cornmeal mush. I did get some thoughts on the page, and hope to work on more this week. If you have a hobby you're passionate about, find a support group and go! I really appreciate the respect I receive there.

***

In the past few years, I have been learning how to be the mother of two grown daughters. Believe me, it's a work-in-progress. I was a very hands-on, smother mother. I poured everything I had and everything I was into my kids. Today, I'm learning how to be myself and how to have an adult relationship with my girls.

One good example I have is my own mother. She has been so patient and loving with me. She walks a fine line between encouraging, but not constantly advising me. I'm going to keep working on this, until my daughters can come to me for fun and companionship, as well as "mothering."

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did four disco aerobic workouts last week. Also, I got crazy and stepped on the bathroom scale. To my total surprise, I had lost an additional three pounds. Well, all right!

***

Notable Quote:

"Writing a book is a horrible, exhausting struggle, like a long bout of some
painful illness. One would never undertake such a thing if one were not
driven on by some demon whom one can neither resist nor understand."--George Orwell, "Why I Write," 1947 (Thanks, H.B.!)

Ring-a-Ding

2010-08-16T20:55:00.005-05:00

Some things are given. When you get married, you get a ring. If you take care of it, it lasts a lifetime. (And so, hopefully, will the marriage!) Well, The Hubster and I are going strong at 29 years and counting, but the ring...not so much.

About a month ago, my wedding ring broke. Two days later, it broke again. I took it in to my favorite jeweler, Luke Schmidt, and he related the sad news. It was terminal. He could maybe mend the ring, but it would never be as strong as it was before, and it would cost much more to repair than the ring was worth. Hmmm.

The Hubster and I put our heads together and thought and prayed on it. We decided that perhaps now was a good time to "upgrade." Walking in to Schmidt Jewelers and sitting in the "engaged" seats was pretty surreal. Luke and Blanche were lovely, as usual. No pressure at all, just good customer service. These folks are not just our jewelers, they are friends. They know our personalities and preferences.

Luke knew I wasn't a girlie-girl, so he picked out some simple sets for us to look over. After examining all our options, we picked a simple white gold set and opted to drop my existing diamond into the new set. The Hubster had surprised me with a new diamond in January, 2001. Since my new wedding set was white gold (to match my ever-whitening hair), we purchased a matching band for The Hubster, too.

If you see a white-haired couple walking down an Ark City street hand-in-hand with brand new, sparkling wedding rings, honk and wave...it's us! Getting new rings wasn't something we had in mind, but God likes to surprise us once in a while. By the way, Luke said in 30 more years we can come back and get another new set. We just might take him up on it.

***

The Cowley County Writers Guild will meet from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Ark City Public Library this Thursday, August 19, 2010. Everyone who is interested in writing is welcome to come. You don't have to be published. Our members are teens to seniors, so everyone is invited. This month, we will be talking about productivity(and the lack, thereof), and carving time out of every day or week to write.

***

My daughter and son-in-law, Rachel and Drew, are moving to The Big D tomorrow. Have a safe trip, dudes! We're so proud of you! If you know them and want their new address, please contact me.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did four aerobic workouts last week. My daughters are hanging their heads in shame. They found out that I own a Richard Simmons DVD. Their fat momma is sweatin' to the oldies!

***

Notable Quote:

Acts 3:1-6 (KJV)
1 Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of prayer, being the ninth hour.
2 And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them that entered into the temple;
3 Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked an alms.
4 And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said, Look on us.
5 And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something of them.
6 Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk.

Three Years Old

2010-08-09T19:09:00.005-05:00

This week marks the third anniversary of my blog. My original goals were to exercise more, lose some weight and continue the work I had begun on Project Carol. Through the history of this blog, you can see the progress I have made. I stopped biting my fingernails, joined writer's groups, attended conferences, gave speeches and lost more weight. It seems as if while this blog was aging, I was doing some growing up, too.

When I began Female in Motion, I was a size 16W. Now I wear a 14W or 16 misses. That's not a lot of weight, but I have kept it off for three years, and that is much better than I have ever done before. I was always a yo yo dieter in the past.

My endurance and energy levels have increased, as well. I think regular exercise is the key for me. I feel better, sleep better, even eat better when I have worked out. My diet has improved, too. I drink lots of water and know my "trigger" foods, like potato chips, donuts and most desserts. Out of my house, off of my hips!

I'm no Nazi when it comes to food, though. I eat what I want, most of the time. I treat myself once in a while, and that is the trick. ONCE IN A WHILE. Not because it's Tuesday afternoon. I've learned to ask myself the question: Is this (insert fattening food here) worth the calories?

When I think about it, this is all your fault, dear readers! Since I am accountable to you, I feel a responsibility to make something of my life, to do better, to be better. And so, I continue on my journey of self-discovery, self-improvement, and hopefully, a minimum of self-absorption. All with a liberal smattering of humor, of course!

***

Momala's Book Club: I am currently reading two books. The first is a non-fiction writing guide, "Make Every Word Count," by Gary Provost. It has helpful tips, followed by exercises to improve your skills. It's on loan from my pastor, Charles Whaley. "So Long, Insecurity," by Beth Moore is a inspirational self-help book for women. I'll give more information on these when I finish.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did five more disco aerobic workouts last week. Richard Simmons is my new BFF!

***

Notable Quote:

Romans 14:12-13 (KJV)
"So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God. Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way."

Moving Forward

2010-08-02T19:49:00.008-05:00

Rachel and Drew are moving to Dallas! Yes, my youngest daughter and her husband are starting a new chapter in the book of their life. Some might say: They're too young! They're not wealthy! It's too far away! I say: I was younger. I was poorer. It's not the moon, people! When is the best time to start your life over? Today. Or tomorrow, at the very latest.

The kids have an opportunity to live in Dallas, where Drew will attend college. He is planning on becoming a physician in the Navy. I am impressed with his ambition and drive. It will take a lot of hard work and time, but he's young and energetic, and smart, to boot. I appreciate their enthusiasm to make this dream come true. That's what it takes.

To that end, I spent this afternoon in Rachel's bedroom, sorting through piles of clothes. My daughter is a bit of a clothes horse; she gets that from me. She has great taste, a keen eye for a bargain, and sews a lot of her own stuff. We made mountains. One mountain was "donate." Another was "sell." And, of course, "keep." I brought the "donate" mountain home to wash and donate to friends and Goodwill.

Funny thing, how clothes can evoke a memory. We found a sweater she had on in one of her senior pictures, long johns she took to New York one spring break, and lots of things we bought for college. We especially enjoyed looking at the gown and shoes she wore on her wedding day eight months ago. She won't need long johns in Texas!

Sorting through Rachel's wardrobe made me think of my own closet. I have shoes in there that may be older than my daughters! There's the black dress I wore to dinner on our 20th wedding anniversary, the crimson jacket I wore to my first writer's conference, even one of my grandfather's Standard Oil work shirts. Clothes can be talismans, in a way. Touch them, and the memory comes rushing back.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did five, count them, five disco aerobic workouts last week, and managed to drop another pound. Look out, Paris Hilton!!!

***

Notable Quote:

"People are always blaming their circumstances for what they are. I don't believe in circumstances. The people who get on in this world are the people who get up and look for the circumstances they want, and, if they can't find them, make them." ~G.B. Shaw, Mrs. Warren's Profession, 1893

The Legend of O.F. Ballew

2010-07-26T16:43:00.008-05:00

Families come in all shapes, sizes, colors and ilks. Trust me, I know. I'm a member of a large, noisy, colorful and zany family. It's a good thing...I blend right in. The traditions each family observes are revered and treasured by each member. Even the really goofy ones!

The following tome was written by my mother and read at the recent Ballew family reunion held in Branson, MO.

"Orange Fuzzy grew up in the beautiful home of our Aunt Kathleen Ballew-Lubben in Independence, MO. Aunt Kathleen kept a beautifully decorated home. That is, with the exception of one room. The primary color of her bathroom was a lovely rose pink. One day a dear friend gave Aunt Kathleen a little orange fuzzy creature that she had made. Aunt Kathleen pondered where to display this gift and finally decided on the bathroom. Orange Fuzzy was strategically situated on the wall facing the occupant of the 'throne.' This proved to be a distraction to some occupants and a comfort to others.

After Aunt Kathleen moved from her residence in Independence to a nursing home, it fell to her nieces Joyce, Nancy, Pat and Marilyn to sort and prepare the contents of her lovely home for an auction. Several comments and suggestions were made regarding Orange Fuzzy and he was finally placed in a box of miscellaneous items to be sold at auction.

At the end of the week, the nieces returned to their homes to await the day of the auction.

And now for 'the rest of the story!'

When Marilyn arrived back home in Kansas and opened her luggage to begin unpacking, she was quite surprised to see Orange Fuzzy right on top of her clothing! Now, how in the world did this happen? Well, that was not too difficult to figure out. It had to be Nancy and Joyce! Okay, so now what to do with this creature?

As Christmas drew near, Orange Fuzzy was placed in a box and beautifully wrapped in gold foil paper and placed under the Christmas tree at Dale and Bonnie Ballew's home.

O.F. remained with the Ballews until the next family reunion, when he was presented to Don and Sue Ballew on the occasion of their 25th wedding anniversary. O.F. enjoyed a two-year stay in Iowa before he again traveled to a family reunion.

Don and Sue made the presentation to Laura and Kent Seyfried at the 2006 reunion so that they could display him in their new home in Olathe, KS. O.F. resided in Kansas for the next two years. He retained his good looks and seemed not to have aged at all.

After two years in Kansas, Orange Fuzzy did not appear at the 2008 reunion. Everyone wondered where he could be, but in a few days Nancy Anderson discovered him in her bedroom in the lingerie drawer of her dresser! O.F. has resided in Chillicothe, MO for the past two years. Where will his travels take him in the future?"

Just prior to my mom reading this "historical document," my Aunt Nancy presented me with a beautifully wrapped gift and announced to the crowd that I was beginning to write a novel and she thought this gift might give me inspiration. When I opened the package, it was O.F. Ballew. He now lives on my desk. (In a Ziploc bag, though, because the cats think he's irresistible!)

***

Momala's Book Club: I finally finished reading "South of Broad" by Pat Conroy. First, I want to say that Conroy is a master word spinner and I love his textured and vibrant imagery. Also, this novel is a love story for Charleston, SC. It really made me want to visit this historic and cultured city. That being said, I was seriously disappointed in the base and violent turn this story took. What began as a hopeful tale of an adolescent misfit, morphed into a twisted tale of incest, sexual abuse and a sadistic killer. All this was peppered heavily with crude language. Two out of five stars.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did five disco aerobic workouts last week, one of which was 35 minutes. Longer than ever before!

***

Notable Quote:

"You don't choose your family. They are God's gift to you, as you are to them."--Desmond Tutu

Creativity Night

2010-07-19T18:45:00.011-05:00

Last Friday night, the Cowley County Writers Guild hosted an arts showcase, called "Creativity Night." It was co-hosted by Ark City Public Library and sponsored by Cherokee Strip Museum, Country Mart and Ark City Senior Citizens Center. This event was planned to celebrate the CCWG's first anniversary. That's right, I started this group in July 2009. Wow, a whole year has gone by, and my, how my life has changed!

Many members of the Guild and lots of other folks pitched in to help pull this wingding off. Some baked cookies, others set up tables and chairs, and still others cheered the performers. The event was held in the theater of the museum. What a great group of people there. Special thanks has to go to Lianne Flax, librarian, who handled publicity and printing of posters and programs.

There's just something about a small-town party. We had twenty guests, and though this doesn't seem like many, they were a supportive, enthusiastic bunch. This was a chance for our club to share with the public our writing. Interspersed between the six poets and writers were three accomplished musicians. In addition, we invited two painters and the Walnut Valley Woodcarvers to share their artistic efforts. It all added up to a fun, upbeat evening.

CCWG members who gave a reading were: Tom Junkins, Grant Williams, Michelle Sommerhauser, Lois Lobmeyer, Dr. Steve Swaim and myself. Danice Sweet played her guitar and sang original songs she composed to accompany her latest children's book. Tunes from the bayou were performed by Sylvia Riggs and Tim Durham, singer/songwriter, gave us numbers about faith, aging and friendship. Because of the positive response, look for Creativity Night to become an annual event.

(In photo, left: Danice Sweet. In photo, center, Grant Williams.)

***

In the first paragraph of this blog entry, I remarked how my life had changed in a year's time. And it has. If you had told me a year ago, that I would be standing on a stage before 20 people and reading my original work and playing mistress of ceremonies, I would have guffawed in your face. Not that I'm a shy, retiring flower, but I just don't put myself out there like that. Now I'm the "fearless leader" of a talented group of local writers, entering writing contests and making speeches and leading meetings. Whoosh! What next? I'm afraid to ask!

***

Now that the two big events of my summer (family reunion/arts showcase) are over, I am ready to kick back for a while. I began a new trend this weekend. I slept in, read the newspaper, watched old movies, and read the novel I had been neglecting. I even took a nap. It was bliss! A girl could definitely get used to this kind of summer.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did four disco aerobic workouts last week. That's what gave me enough energy to get through all the junk I did.

***

Notable Quote:

Deuteronomy 31:6 (KJV)
"Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee."

We Are Family

2010-07-12T20:11:00.012-05:00

It only occurs once every two years. It is the gathering of an eccentric and elusive species that is most rare. These beings flock from the darkest plains of Kansas, the wildest prairies of Iowa, the deeply forested hills of Missouri. One tribe even ventured all the way from the jungles of New York! It is...my family reunion!

My mother's family meets every two years in a different location to renew our commitment to each other as a family. We eat, talk, laugh, play games and enjoy each other's company. This year's destination was Branson, MO. Or, as my soon-to-be son-in-law calls it: Hillbilly Disneyland!

Really, we had a great time. The Hubster and I were so glad that both our daughters and their wonderful fellas were able to take the time to come with us. We rented a three-bedroom condo at Thousand Hills Golf Resort. When we weren't hanging out with the whole group, we cooked together, shopped, went to an IMAX film and watched old movies. There's no lack of things to do in Branson.

The condo was beautiful and spacious. It featured three bedrooms and bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, dining area, nice living room with TV and DVD player, and a pretty patio table and chairs with a great view of the pool and golf course. The jacuzzi tub was just icing on the cake. The Hubster made full use of this bonus to soothe his aching back.

My sister, Donna, did most of the planning and organization of the family meeting. I helped with correspondence, and put together an updated family phone book. My mom made sure that everything went smoothly. We make a pretty good team, I think. We held the luncheon meeting at the resort's hospitality room, then took off for a lakeside barbecue supper.

The feedback we received on the event was very positive. Our family seemed to enjoy all the activities, although Branson was crowded and traffic was a problem. The resort was beautiful and large, although two of our family members had items stolen from their cars overnight. Everyone liked that it was at a vacation destination, although we were all tired when we returned home. All in all, it was a very successful weekend. I am so grateful for the opportunity to reconnect with the people I love.

***

Don't forget! Creativity Night: An Arts Showcase is this Friday night! We have updated the time to include families with children: 6-8 p.m. Friday, July 16, 2010 at the Cherokee Strip Land Rush Museum. The Ark City Public Library is hosting, along with Cowley County Writers Guild. Our generous sponsors, along with the Museum, are Country Mart and Ark City Senior Citizens Center. Admission is free; bring the whole family. This isn't a stuffy art gallery affair, we'll have lots of great music, writers sharing their craft, refreshments and plenty of cool things to look at: wood carvings, paintings and photographs. Some of our published authors will offer their books for sale, too. Please come!

***

Momala's Book Club Pick: I just started reading Pat Conroy's "South of Broad" and already I'm in love! It's about a misunderstood young man living in Charleston, SC. Conroy is a master wordsmith. The pictures he paints in my mind are lush, full-colored works of art. I'll give a full report when I finish the book.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: Even though I was out of town part of the week, I did three aerobic workouts and walked a couple of miles around the Branson Tanger Outlet Mall! Take that, burger and fries!

***

Notable Quote:

"Families are like fudge - mostly sweet with a few nuts."--Author Unknown

What Does Carol Do All Day?

2010-07-05T18:13:00.007-05:00

Some of you may wonder, what do I do all day, besides write this blog? Good question. Actually, blogging is not my full-time job, it's just a hobby. The Hubster started a data processing business 11 1/2 years ago, and I am the office manager. I spend my day answering phone calls, doing data entry, exchanging emails with clients and generally putting out "fires." Yes, I'm part firefighter, part Sherlock Holmes, with a little Sigmund Freud tossed in.

Our business, Remote Data Services, processes electronic Medicaid claims. When you run your own business, it takes up a lot of time. Just because the clock says five p.m., doesn't mean we get to go home. It's a two-edged sword. I love giving my customers the best service in the world, but I know that I need to take time for myself, as well.

Is this what I thought I would be doing at this point in my life? Not really. When I was a kid, I was convinced I would be Evel Kneivel, or at the very least a glamorous flight attendant, flying all over the world. Later, when I went to college, I studied nursing. None of these occupations were a good fit.

During the ensuing years, I worked as a cashier, waitress, cook, nurse's aide, wheat harvest help, reporter, typist and printer. I was working as a proofreader when The Hubster got the idea for RDS. I jumped at the chance to work with him. Although it is a lot of hard work, I love making my customers happy and that makes me happy.

***

Momala's Book Club Pick: I just this minute finished "Plain Truth" by Jodi Picoult. This novel is based in Amish country, Pennsylvania. A dead newborn is found in a dairy barn on an Amish farm. The suspense builds ever-so-slowly, as details of the conception, pregnancy, delivery and death are revealed. A powerful woman attorney from Philadelphia defends the accused young woman and develops a respectful connection to these "plain" folk. Some romance, small amount of bedroom scenes and just a dot of salty language. Four out of five stars.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did four aerobic workouts last week. Disco is my life!

***

Notable Quote:

"People who work sitting down get paid more than people who work standing up."--Ogden Nash, poet

Calling All Artists, Musicians and Writers

2010-06-28T19:14:00.003-05:00

Who says there's never anything to do in our town? Arkansas City Public Library and Cowley County Writers Guild will be hosting "Creativity Night: An Arts Showcase" at 7 p.m. Friday, July 16, 2010. This local arts event will be held at the Cherokee Strip Land Rush Museum, and feature works of photographers, painters, woodcarvers, authors, poets, singer/songwriters and musicians from Cowley County. Bring the family out and nosh on refreshments while enjoying the art. A little culture never hurt anyone!

Lianne Flax, Ark City librarian, the members of the CCWG and little old me are putting this event together. We are still looking for visual artists and musicians of all kinds, so be on the look out. Call/email/yell at me if you know someone. There's no age limit and they don't have to be professional. We're simply looking for talented locals. There are already a bunch of cool people signed up, so don't miss it!

***

My family enjoyed a cookout at Sarah and Derek's place last weekend. It was potluck so everyone brought something. Derek manned the grill and Rachel made luscious desserts and Sarah made divine frozen coffee drinks and Mom made a fruit salad with fresh peaches from Waverly, MO. What a treat! It's nice to get together and act silly. It's a shame I don't get to do that more often.

***

Momala's Book Club Pick: "The Divide" by Nicholas Evans is the book I just finished. I would classify this book as adult/crime/mystery. Evans, author of "The Horse Whisperer," weaves a compelling tale of a fractured family coming to grips with their daughter's death, and discovering the secret double life she led. It has some strong language, a dash of sex, and a bit of violence. Three out of five stars.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: Since upping my aerobic workouts to five times per week, I'm noticing changes. I have more endurance, more energy, a flatter tummy and one less pound last week!

***

Notable Quote:

Psalms 144:9 (KJV)
"I will sing a new song unto thee, O God: upon a psaltery and an instrument of ten strings will I sing praises unto thee."

Happy Orbits, Major Astro

2010-06-21T19:16:00.011-05:00

The following blog entry was originally posted on September 21, 2009. For anyone who grew up in Kansas in the 60s and 70s, Major Astro was an after-school staple. Tom Leahy, Jr. played the galactic explorer for a generation of cartoon-crazed youngsters. Mr. Leahy, 87, passed away on Friday from complications of open-heart surgery. Godspeed, Major!

***

Somehow, The Hubster and I got on the subject of afternoon cartoons like Felix the Cat. As far as I am concerned, the consummate authority on afternoon cartoons was, is and will always be...Major Astro. Every day, after school, my brother and I raced home to catch Major Astro on KARD Channel 3. We loved Johnny Quest, Snagglepuss, Yogi and BooBoo, and all the rest, but Major Astro was our aeronautical icon. And I shook his hand!

It happened on one of the many visits our junior high choir made to Wichita television stations. The Derby vocal music department trotted us around to all the daytime local shows whenever we were preparing for a concert. One day, as we were walking down the hall toward the studio, a figure approached. A tall, commanding figure with a faraway look in his eye. Forget that he was wearing a sport coat and tie, it was him! It was MAJOR ASTRO!!!

After he extricated himself from the dogpile of prepubescent songsters, Major Astro was happy to sign autographs, shake our hands and answer about a million questions. That, my friends, was a very good day. Yes, The Hubster has traveled the world, eaten dog in the Philippines and flown in a helicopter with no doors, but I met Major Astro. So...we're even.

***

My friend, Dee Page, told me about a God-Incident she had last week. No, not a coincidence, a God-Incident. Dee attends my mom's church in Derby; the church in which I grew up. If you remember, Dee and my mom accompanied me to the book signing at the Derby Public Library a few weeks ago.

While driving to the library, Dee told me about a book she wanted to replace. She had lost "Out to Mitford," by Jan Karon, the first book in the Father Tim series. After loaning it to a girlfriend, this friend became sick and passed away. That was several years ago when Dee lived in Wichita. The girlfriend's daughter wasn't a very nostalgic sort, so she simply donated everything in her mother's house to Goodwill.

Dee loves books and always buys hardcover copies. She puts her own personalized bookplate on the inside cover and usually gets the author to autograph. The Jan Karon book was a gift from her niece, Barbara, and contained a lovely note from her. Dee resigned herself to the fact that the book was gone.

I promised to check Amazon.com to see if I could find a replacement. Since it was out-of-print, the cheapest used copy was $136.00. Mom and I agreed that we should wait to purchase a copy until the cost came down. I put a note in my Amazon wish list and promptly forgot about it.

Last week, Mom was in Derby doing a little shopping at a small used bookstore. She's a reader, too. (That's where I get it from!) Mom noticed that they had a few Jan Karon titles, so she perused the aisle. There it was, a hardcover copy of "Out to Mitford." Mom snapped it up and headed to the register.

After making her purchases, she called Dee on her cell phone and asked if she might drop by to show her something. Although Dee said that she was a mess, Mom persisted and drove right over. Taking the book out of the shopping bag, she placed it in her friend's hands. Dee was so pleased to see the book and thanked Mom graciously. Mom said, "Open the cover."

And that's when Dee saw that the book in her hands was HER BOOK, complete with personalized bookplate and lovely note from Barbara. Somehow, with lots of help from God, Dee's book had made its way from a Goodwill store several years ago, to a Derby bookstore, and from my mother's hands, back into the hands of the original owner. Ain't God good?

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: Last week I did four aerobic workouts and three sets of hand-weight calisthenics. The food diary is starting to pay off, I lost 1.5 pounds last week.

***

Notable Quote:

"Happy Orbits, boys and girls ... Everything will be A-Okay and all systems will be go."--Major Astro, aka Tom Leahy, Jr., 1922-2010

Woman Gives Birth to "Bump"

2010-06-14T19:30:00.004-05:00

I finished writing an inspirational story last weekend. "Just a Little Bump" is a semi-autobiographical tale of a young wife and mom that is diagnosed with malignant melanoma while she is in the hospital giving birth to her second daughter. I first told you about the story in this very blog on March 15. It took me long enough, but I finally got it done.

I tucked it into an envelope and now it is off to be judged in the Kansas Authors Club annual literary contest. "Bump" was more emotional for me to write than I thought it would be, so it took me quite a while to write. The end product is compelling, I hope. I will keep you apprised on the contest results in October.

***

A lot of friends are taking summer vacations this month. It reminds me of trips my family of six took in our 1962 Ford Falcon station wagon in the 1960s. Dad, Mom, Laurie, Donna, Carol and David would pile in the car and head off to Yellowstone National Park, Colorado, Texas, or parts unknown. Sometimes we rented a little trailer and stayed in campgrounds, or occasionally we would stay in a Best Western.

For two solid weeks, I sat in the back seat between my big sisters, hot summer wind blowing through the open windows. Not just wind, either, there were also bugs and dust and all kinds of other junk blowing through those windows. Once we arrived at our destination, it took a couple of hours to get the howling in your ears to die down and to rinse the road grit out of your hair and eyes and teeth. For the younger set, this was before air conditioning was available in cars. Ah, memories!

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did four aerobic workouts and three sets of arm weight calisthenics last week. I found out I gained another half-pound and it just made me mad. Hopefully, that will turn into energy for exercise this week.

***

Notable Quote:

"No tears in the writer. No tears in the reader."--Robert Frost, American poet

Bathing Beauty

2010-06-07T19:55:00.010-05:00

I bought a swimsuit last week. Let me clarify that. After not putting one on for over seven years...I bought a SWIMSUIT last week. The picture above was taken in Pensacola Beach, FL in July, 2003. The Hubster and I were celebrating our 22nd wedding anniversary. I was so relaxed and happy on that trip that he took a photo and I didn't even tackle him!

If you're a woman, you know what I'm talking about. It doesn't matter whether you weigh 82 pounds or 482 pounds. It doesn't matter if you bring your best friend, your mom or your husband of nearly 29 years. It doesn't matter if you are 21 or 81. Trying on swimsuits, under those lights, in one of those little cubicles, is hell on earth. Not that I'm overly dramatic...

***

Momala's Movie Pick: The Hubster and I went to see the new "Shrek" movie on Saturday night at the Cowley 8. That's not an unusual thing for a couple to do, except it had been over a year since we had seen a movie in a theater. The Hubster's physical condition is such that he can't sit for extended periods of time without excruciating pain. Because of a new type of electronic stimulation therapy, he sat comfortably through the whole funny flick. Next stop: The Warren Theater Balcony! Shrek is a great family film. Five stars.

***

Momala's Book Club Pick: I finished a book last night by prolific Ark City author/poet Grant Williams. "Rooftops to Rice Paddies" is a story about a talented young man that grew up in the projects of New York City in the 1960s. After a stellar high school career, in which he excelled in sports, music and academics, he is drafted into the Army and shipped off to Vietnam. He comforts himself and those around him with soulful blues from his trumpet. This book would be great for folks who grew up in the 60s or anyone interested in music. Some adult situations and war violence. Three stars.

***

My first attempt at a poem.

I WANT TO BE A CAT

My cat is the happiest person I know.
I want to be a cat.

My cat bathes herself for 45 minutes at a stretch.
I take a 10-minute bath and have my cat's undivided attention the whole time.

My cat is unemployed.
I work at least eight hours a day and then I clean up after my cat.

My cats sleeps 23 3/4 hours per day.
I'm lucky if I get 7.

My cat sleeps in the middle of the bed.
I sleep on the edge, so I won't disturb my cat.

My cat gets a weekly brushing to make her coat shiny and sleek.
I get a haircut four times a year.

My cat only eats expensive canned food that I drive 100 miles to retrieve.
I eat whatever's on sale at the store this week.

My cat plays with a box full of toys from a pricey pet boutique.
I'm still saving up for a mani-pedi.

My cat enjoys "quality time" with me by lounging on my computer keyboard.
I'm not allowed to disturb her when she's having her "me time."

My cat doesn't pay taxes.
I pay thousands in taxes every year.

My cat is dependent on me for all her needs.
I can't even claim my cat as a deduction on my taxes.

My cat loves the way I feed and groom and play with her.
I think my cat loves me.

My cat is content with her life.
I want to be a cat.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did three 30-minute aerobic workouts last week and three sets of hand weight calisthenics. I gained a half of a pound, but I'm not too worried.

***

Notable Quote:

"I don't know about you, but when I exit the dressing room after trying on swimsuits, I need counseling."--Cheryl Stritzel McCarthy, Daily Herald columnist

Memorial Day 2010

2010-05-31T19:07:00.010-05:00

(Pictured at top is Dot and T.J. on their last day at our house. Bottom photo is Dee Page, B.D. Tharp and Marilyn Monson at the Derby Public Library.)

My mom, our dear friend, Dee Page, and I attended the Book Talk for author B.D. Tharp on Thursday night at the Derby Public Library. If you haven't been to the new Derby Library yet, you must. It's gorgeous! Mom had never been to a book talk with an author before. We all enjoyed the lively discussion about women "of a certain age" and the unique challenges that presents. B.D. Tharp is a fun speaker, too.

***

The four-month odyssey is at a close. Socks, the pregnant cat who abruptly came into our lives one cold February day, and her four furry and fun kittens went to their forever home this afternoon. The whole family will be living on a beautiful farm outside Ark City, complete with barn and pond. Although we will miss them sorely, we're so happy that they will have a whole new world to explore. Best of all, they will have children to entertain. We are thankful to God for the blessing of this lesson on patience and nurturing.

***

Memorial Day passed quietly at our house today. I did some reminiscing about Memorial Days past, celebrated in Hale, Missouri, my parents' hometown. We would stay at one set of grandparents or the other, and have picnics, play games, attend church services and eat ourselves silly. My favorite part of the visit was traveling to all the local cemeteries and placing flowers on the graves of my ancestors. There was something so peaceful and harmonious about walking the rolling, green hills, brushing off the headstones, listening to a story or two about this third cousin or that great-great grandmother. Family is precious!

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did three sets of hand weight calisthenics and two 30-minute disco aerobics workouts, plus helped clean the church and vacuumed, mopped and scrubbed my own house. Some of the ladies in our church have started a "diet club" and I found out I lost 2.5 pounds last week. Doing a food diary helps!

***

Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Luke and Nathaly Smith, who were married at Missionary Baptist Church on Sunday afternoon. Congratulations also to Rick and Louise Coldwell on their 50th wedding anniversary on Saturday. God bless you!

***

Notable Quote:

"Some people live an entire lifetime and wonder if they have ever made a difference in the world, but the Marines don't have that problem." - Ronald Reagan (I'd say it was the Navy, actually!)

Need Some Inspiration?

2010-05-24T19:28:00.009-05:00

While watching "American Idol" a few weeks ago, the contestants chose inspirational tunes to sing. Most pieces were Whitney Houston tunes or the R. Kelly sap-fest, "I Believe I Can Fly." It got me to thinking, what songs do I consider to be inspirational? After pondering this question for a time, I came up with some surprising, albeit satisfying selections. What do these tunes have in common? None of them are sung by professional singers!

#3: "What a Wonderful World" by Louis Armstrong. This piece, recorded in 1970, stands the test of time. Most famous for his trumpeting skills, Armstrong delivers a heartfelt and sensitive touch to this classic song. Listen to it here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_5ROPCfL9hQ&feature=related

#2: "It's Not Easy Being Green" by Kermit the Frog. This self-acceptance anthem by the cute and cuddly amphibian from The Muppets is warm, wistful and completely wonderful. Listen to it here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hpiIWMWWVco

#1: "Pure Imagination" by Gene Wilder. "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory," the 1971 film starring Wilder, is the definitive kid's movie. The song, written by Anthony Newley & Leslie Bricusse, was written specifically for the film. Listen to it here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RZ-uV72pQKI&feature=related

***

Last Thursday night was Author Night at the Ark City Public Library. The Cowley County Writers Guild hosted B.D. Tharp, author of "Feisty Family Values," in a book talk and signing. Ms. Tharp was a fun, engaging speaker and the nearly SRO crowd was appreciative and asked lots of questions. Thanks to all the folks who came out. Look for more CCWG/ACPL Author Nights in the future.

***

Momala's Family News: Our youngest daughter, Rachel, turns 23 today. Happy Birthday, Kibbie! Also, our daughter, Sarah, is engaged to Derek Werner. They're planning a fall wedding. Congrats!

***

Female In Motion Exercise Update: I hit it hard last week, with three 30-minute disco aerobic workouts and two arm weight calisthenic sets. When you add in the floor scrubbing and vacuuming, I should be ready for a marathon in a couple of months. Ha!

***

Notable Quote:

"Our Father in heaven is more concerned about our character than our comfort, so we struggle and we learn and we grow and we share our experiences with others so that they might benefit."--Steve Kent, Adamas Ministries

My Mother's Garden

2010-05-17T19:19:00.014-05:00

I took a walk through my mom's garden on Mother's Day. It seemed to be a walk through my family's history, as well. I saw roses from my Grandmother Monson's garden, and ones from my Uncle Chuck, too. The pink and white peonies reminded me of MaMa Ballew. Peonies were her favorite flowers.

My mother spends time tending her flower garden, but all those roses and irises and peonies are not her ultimate focus. My mother tends something much more important: her relationships. Mom is a people person. Now you know where I get it from. She passionately cares about others, like her family, her friends, her church and pretty much everyone else she meets. I love how she can simultaneously make you feel as if she's giving every drop of her energy to you, while at the same time she is taking nothing away from herself. Cool!

***

There were three, count 'em, three high school concerts last week and yours truly was at every one of them! Due to the tornado in our backyard last Monday, the orchestra concert was postponed to Tuesday night and joined the jazz and concert bands on their night. Rebecca Tast directed the 6th-12th grade orchestras in up-tempo contemporary pieces, like the themes from "Jurassic Park," "Batman" and "Star Wars." Coldplay's "Viva la Vida" was awesome, with my favorite students, Alexis Coldwell on bass and Conner Coldwell on drums.

Next up, the Ark City High School's slamming Jazz Band brought four numbers to tap your toes to. I loved the Big Band feel of Hammerstein's "All the Things You Are," complete with girl singer (Mary Beth Byers). My favorite song was "The Woogie," which reminded me of all the times I sat on my mom's piano bench while she wailed on some boogie woogie tune. Chris Van Gilder led the Concert Band in five easy pieces that were chockful of sparkling solos and melodious musicianship. I loved the whimsy of P.D.Q. Bach's "Rondo Mucho Grando" complete with standard Silly String and Cameron Crabtree on thundering kettle drum.

The ACHS Vocal Music Department's Thursday concert was a tasty topper to this sumptuous musical feast. All the ensembles and choirs brought modern pop performances. My favorite solos were by juniors Joe Descartes, Tayler Gill and Mary Beth Byers. The Symphonic Choir did not one, but three show-stopping tunes. "Don't Stop Believin'" ala TV's "Glee," "Africa" by 80's pop group Toto and a senior student tribute, "You Raise Me Up."

A tender moment in this last song was when all the senior students presented a flower to their parents who gathered at the stage, except for one young man, whose parents were absent. He smiled and gave his flower to Tim Cassidy, the director. The mother in me wanted to rush the stage and hug his neck.

***

The Cowley County Writers Guild and Ark City Public Library are hosting a book talk and signing by B.D. Tharp, Wichita author. Her book "Feisty Family Values" was released in February and is already in its second printing. Ms. Tharp is a funny, vibrant woman and an engaging speaker. The event is slated for 6:30 p.m. Thursday, May 20, 2010 at the Ark City Public Library. If you bring a friend, you will get a freshly-baked cookie. Who could turn that down?

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I was a sloth last week and only did two sets of hand weight calisthenics. To avert a complete guilt trip, I cleaned the house like a mad woman on Friday and Saturday.

***

Notable Quote:

"The measure of achievement is not winning awards. It's doing something that you appreciate, something you believe is worthwhile. I think of my strawberry souffle. I did that at least 28 times before I finally conquered it."--Julia Child

Migraine Monday

2010-05-10T19:58:00.005-05:00

I've been battling a migraine all day today. I woke up at 5:48 this morning with my head pounding. No matter what type of medicine or rest or food I take, it hasn't let up much. I couldn't figure out what was going on...and then the tornado warning hit.

While The Hubster and I were huddled in the basement, riding out the storm surrounded by assorted cats, it hit me. When the barometric pressure swings wildly, my head pounds. Ah! But does that fact make my head and stomach feel any better? No, not really.

***

A spring concert was held at Cowley College last Tuesday. I got to see the Concert Band perform five exotic and intricate melodies, each one a sparkling gem. To top it off, the Concert Choir presented eight stunning operatic pieces. There were three solo arias, brought by sophomore members Mitch Wright, Jessica Latham and Bryce Sund. The delicious dessert portion of the evening was the "Brindisi" from "La Traviata" by Verdi. Soloists were Cowley alum Lindsay Ramirez and Brian Stranghoner, vocal music director at Douglass High School. They had me humming the rest of the week.

***

Don't forget to attend the Ark City High School spring concerts this week. Tuesday is the band's turn, then vocal music on Thursday night. Come and show your support to these hard-working teens.

***

Momala's Book Club: I finished "Angela's Ashes" this afternoon. Written by Frank McCourt, the eldest of the prolific literary McCourt family, this tome is Frank's bleak memoir of his Irish upbringing. He grew up desperately poor, the oldest of four boys (his four other siblings died young) with an alcoholic absentee father and an overwhelmed mother. It was a sad tale, albeit compelling. Extremely gritty, with a good smattering of rough language and carnal acts. Won the Pulitzer Prize. Two and a half stars.

***

Exercise Update: I did two disco aerobic workouts last week and two sets of hand-weight calisthenics. Hope to get back to a good routine this week.

***

Notable Quote:

"Life is too short for ugly food."--Sarah Martin

The Book of Life

2010-05-03T19:06:00.008-05:00

When my daughters were younger and ran across a heartache or a headache, I would sit down and talk with them about the Book of Their Life. I asked them, "Does this person or problem deserve a word, sentence, paragraph, page or chapter in the book of your life?" Although they rolled their eyes, I think my girls listened to me (at least about that!).

Have you ever thought about your life and the people and situations you allow to have place in it? Sometimes it seems as if our days have a life of their own and we are merely passengers that trail along after it, fingernails dug in. What if we got a lot more intentional about our lives? If you were writing the book of your life, would you think a little more carefully about your actions and associations? I know I would...that's how my brain works.

God has blessed me with a great life and I want to honor Him and myself with it. So I want to make a conscious effort to follow my passion, live honorably, love mightily and think before I speak and act. Besides, if the book of my life is a best-seller, they might make it into a movie! Now, who should play me...

***

Cowley College Singers and Jazz Band presented their Spring Concert last Tuesday. Since Jessica Coldwell, a Cowley freshman and friend of mine is in both groups, it was a do-not-miss on my list. The Singers performed a medley of Disney movie songs with full choreography. It was a ambitious project and they executed it with finesse. I loved that it had the perfect blend of fun and fancy. Some of the songs were serious love songs while some were just plain fun to watch. Jessica's brother, Conner, substituted on drums at the last minute and did a bang-up job.

The Jazz Band jammed with a samba, one with a Latin beat and a Caribbean number, too. My favorite was "Passado" by Dave Hanson, with saxophone and trumpet solos. This talented group of musicians provided a powerful sound and lots of toe-tapping enjoyment for the appreciative audience. A small guitar ensemble is the newest addition to the Cowley music department, and they brought two jazz pieces and a Bach fugue, which was gorgeous.

Don't forget to attend the Cowley Concert Choir/Concert Band Spring Concert at 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 4, 2010.

***

Momala's Netflix Pick of the Week: The Hubster and I enjoyed Disney's "Earth," a visually stunning documentary chronicling the life cycle of polar bears in the Arctic, elephants in the Kalahari Desert and humpback whales migrating south. The film has a not-so-subtle conservation message and a frank depiction of life and death in the wild, so it is not for small children. Three out of five stars. Rated G.

***

Notable Quote:

Luke 10:19 (KJV)
"Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you."

Book, Book, Book...Bible!

2010-04-26T20:36:00.006-05:00

Momala's Book Club Pick: "Cozy in Kansas," is a three-book collection by Nancy Mehl, a Wichita author. The 2008 trilogy, all set in fictional Winter Break, KS, are romance mystery stories with a mildly Christian bent. Mehl was nominated for the 2009 American Christian Fiction Writers Book of the Year Award in mystery for "For Whom the Wedding Bell Tolls." These stories, published by Barbour, have Ivy Towers as the main character. Ivy is a WSU student who interrupts her Christmas break to travel to Winter Break and attend to her great aunt's estate. There are lots of fun, eccentric townsfolk in this small village and it seems that most of them have secrets to keep (and secrets for Ivy to solve). I would give this collection three and a half out of five stars. It's available on Amazon.com. To learn more about the author, go to: www.nancymehl.com.

***

Mark your calendars! Missionary Baptist Church will be hosting their annual May Fellowship meeting on Thursday and Friday, May 6-7, 2010. This gathering attracts pastors and flock alike to hear great preaching and soul-stirring gospel music and sample delicious food. Guests are expected from Texas, Oklahoma and Colorado, among other states. Services start at 7 p.m. Thursday night, and continue from 9 a.m. through the evening service on Friday. The noon meal on Friday alone is worth your price of admission (if we charged admission). There will be piles of succulent roast beef and ham, mashed potatoes and gravy and homemade hot rolls! Make sure to set aside time to be fed from God's Word and our great cooks.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did three disco aerobic workouts last week and two sets of hand-weight calisthenics. During my well-woman annual exam this afternoon, the doctor was impressed with my workout routine and advised me to keep it up.

***

Notable Quote:

Proverbs 30:5 (KJV)
"Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him."

A Little Imagination is a Dangerous Thing

2010-04-19T18:59:00.011-05:00

A group of ladies at church were talking on Sunday about kids today not having much imagination. One said that her grandkids' constant refrain is "We're bored!" She said they'd rather watch TV or play video games than play pretend games in the yard with friends. That conjured up a lot of fun memories from my childhood days. How many characters could you be with a simple bath towel?

In my childhood neighborhood, my brother, our friends and I would tie beach or bath towels around our necks and play pirates, super heroes, wedding, international spies, knights of the Round Table, stuntmen, circus acrobats and Evel Knievel, along with a host of others.

Grownups used to look at me, shake their heads and say, "Carol, you have a wild imagination!" Maybe they didn't intend for it to be a compliment, but I took it as one. Yes, I do have a wild imagination. It hasn't dulled a bit over the years, and it comes in handy in my current avocation. I've been writing this blog for almost three years, and I haven't run out of crazy things to say, have I?

***

The Ark City Public Library/Cowley County Writers Guild Poetry Readaround last Thursday night was a big success. We had a roomful of people, including readers and guests. Romance, memoirs, travel, fantasy and funny poems were read, along with some other types of writing. It was fun to enjoy and appreciate each author's point of view (and guts for sharing their work in a public forum!). Thanks to Lianne Flax, ACPL librarian for organizing the event, and to all the folks who came. Bless you!

Along that line, the library is planning another Jazz Poetry/Prose evening this summer. They held one last summer in their parking lot that was very popular. We're hoping to expand on that idea by adding more music, prose readings and maybe even food. If it was held on a Friday night, would your family be interested in attending?

***

The family gathered in Wichita last weekend to celebrate our daughter, Sarah's birthday. After a divine Italian feast, we toasted her with chocolate chip cupcakes and milk chocolate frosting. The restaurant she picked was Carrabba's Italian Grill, and it was great! If you haven't gone there yet, check it out. I can highly recommend the Italian salad and chicken Marsala.

***

Momala's Book Club: I read Andrew Morton's "Diana: Her True Story." It is a biography of Princess Diana's childhood, adolescence, courtship and early marriage to Prince Charles. The book concludes as the couple divorced. She was a beautiful, fragile and incomparably compassionate woman, whose life came to a tragic early end.

***

Exercise Update: I did three hand-weight calisthenic sets and three disco aerobic workouts last week. Trying to change things up a little bit, I alternated calisthenics with aerobics day-to-day. The cats seemed to enjoy the show!

***

Notable Quote:

"There's a lot of stuff sitting in people's heads."--Thomas MacEntee, on blogging.

Blooming Memories

2010-04-12T20:09:00.009-05:00

The photo above is my lilac bush in bloom this week. Every Spring when it blooms, it reminds me of visits to my Grandmother Monson's cozy home in Hale, MO. Her house was surrounded by life of all kinds: kids, grand kids, birds, bugs, and every fragrant plant imaginable. Grandmother had the greenest of green thumbs and was always planting, pruning, weeding and harvesting the bounty of her many gardens. She had myriads of flowers, vines, fruit-bearing trees and bushes, and vegetables of every genus. Standing by her side at the stove, as she stirred a batch of peach preserves or steamed Mason jars full of tasty green beans, I felt connected to her and to my family's history.

***

Momala's Book Club Update: My friend, B.D. Tharp's novel "Feisty Family Values," has sold out of its first publishing run in just under two months! Due to this matter, the publisher has decided to do a second print run. This is really good news. If you haven't gotten a copy of the book yet, you can find one at all the Wichita bookstores, Amazon, or your local library. It's a great read!

***

Two of my best buds from church, Conner Coldwell and Sadie Lungren, came by this afternoon to play with the new kittens. It's so fun to watch people interact with the babies, and vice versa. Socks' offspring have just reached the playful and cuddly stage, so they love it when people come over to play. Ah, to be a young feline...or a young anything, for that matter.

***

Cowley County Writers Guild and Ark City Public Library are celebrating April as National Poetry Month by hosting a Poetry Readaround at 6 p.m. this Thursday, April 15 (Tax Day!) This event is open to anyone: writer, poet or just downright-fun-party-person. Come and bring a poem, original or your favorite, or just come to listen and support. It doesn't even have to be a poem, if that's not your thing. See you there!

***

Exercise Update: I did three disco aerobic workouts last week and three hand-weight calisthenic sets. My tummy muscles are starting to tighten.

***

Notable Quote:

"There's no money in poetry, but then there's no poetry in money either."--Robert Graves

Kitten Watch 2010

2010-04-05T19:51:00.014-05:00

How time zooms along! Sock's kittens will be three weeks old tomorrow. These four fur bundles are so fun to watch and cuddle. Every day, they get bigger, rounder, more brave and much, much cuter! This week, their ears are popping up and they are tussling with each other. Sibling rivalry is rearing its ugly head!

***

Easter weekend went by so fast it made a whooshing noise as it passed. The Hubster and I cooked, cleaned, shopped, ran errands and participated in lots of church activities. Sometimes I get concerned that while we try to fit in all the activities, we forget to stop and reflect on Christ's ultimate sacrifice for our sins...the reason for the holiday, after all. I got a chance to slow it all down and thank God for The Gift by observing one of our church's ordinances on Sunday night, The Lord's Supper.

Missionary Baptist Church, 210 Windsor Road, Ark City, will be hosting a Church Growth Seminar this week at 7 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, and Sunday at 11 a.m. The evangelist leading this meeting is Jeremy Rands, administrative pastor of First Baptist Church, Milford, Ohio. Rands is a young and dynamic preacher. You'll want to make time to hear him.

***

Momala's Book Club Pick of the Week: "Divine Justice" by David Baldacci is a spy thriller about a rogue government assassin on the run after bumping off the head of the CIA and a prominent U.S. Congressman. But that's not the exciting part. It's only when he happens upon a small, sleepy mining town in West Virginia that the plot really speeds up and gets intriguing. Yeah, I know...I love that, too! This was a 523-page book that I devoured in a mere few days, and a few late nights. The pace is quick and the characters are flawed, but fascinating. There is minimal romance and a fair amount of violence, which is to be expected. Four out of five stars. You can find this book at: http://www.amazon.com/Divine-Justice-Camel-David-Baldacci/dp/0446544884/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1270518452&sr=1-1.

***

Female in Motion Exercise Update: I did three hand weight calisthenic sets last week and two disco aerobic workouts. I have found that I work out longer to disco music than just regular aerobics with boring background music. Go figure!

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Photos: Pictured in the left photo are Socks, the mommy cat and her four furry eating machines: Auddie and Gladys, Dot and T.J. (named after The Hubster's and my grandparents); in the photo on the right are the delectable Easter cupcakes that our daughter, Rachel, made. Cute!

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Notable Quote:

Matthew 28:6 (KJV)
"He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay."

Rubbing Elbows with Writers

2010-03-29T21:00:00.010-05:00

I attended the Kansas Writers Association's Scene Conference at the Airport Hilton in Wichita on Saturday. This was my first chance to attend the biannual event since joining the group last April. There were workshops and lectures on parts of speech, dialogue techniques and revision and editing skills. Why would I spend a whole Saturday listening to that? Because that's all the stuff a writer nerd loves!

My favorite sessions were the ones led by Kirt Hickman, science fiction author and writing mechanics whiz. I learned a ton about making dialogue sound natural and not stilted. He also gave a lecture on self-editing that was incredibly helpful and clear. The keynote speaker during lunch was Lt. Ken Landwehr, Wichita Police Department homicide commander, who brought down the BTK Killer. It was fascinating to hear about his work and relationship with the media.

(Pictured above left are Janet Bahl, KWA Scene Conference Chair and B.D. Tharp, KWA past president and friend of Blogger Carol; above right is Blogger Carol sporting her official "I'm a Writer Nerd" neckwear!)

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Local high school instrumental music students are preparing for Spring Festival and Contest time, so they hosted their annual Prism Concert tonight. The full orchestra, concert band and jazz band performed, along with a plethora of ensembles. My favorites were Vivaldi's delicious Allegro in D by the orchestra, a very peppy Haitian Fight Song by the Jazz Band and the Concert Band's percussion-rich Festivo by Vaclav Nelhybel. My student bff's Alexis Coldwell, Conner Coldwell and Cameron Crabtree gave stellar performances. Tomorrow night...the choir!

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I can't believe that Easter is this coming Sunday. When did the time fly by? I am enjoying the weather warm-up. It took a while, but Spring is finally happening. Our church is planning some really fun and treasured Easter activities. Sunrise Service will begin at 7 a.m. by the tree in the field outside our building, followed by breakfast in our new, bright and spiffy fellowship hall. Regular Sunday School and Worship service times are 9:45 a.m. and 11 a.m., with special music provided. If you don't have a home church, you are welcome to join the family in the celebration of Christ's resurrection at Missionary Baptist Church.

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My first issue of Writer's Digest arrived last week. The magazine subscription was given to me as a birthday gift from my daughter, Sarah, and her handsome man, Derek. I was really blown away by their thoughtfulness. It's so fun to see my children supporting their old mom in her silly new "hobby." The March/April issue has an in-depth interview with author Elizabeth Berg, whose "Open House" was an Oprah Book Club selection. I am savoring each page like a silky Ghirardelli gourmet chocolate square.

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"Feisty Family Values," the hen-lit freshman novel by B.D. Tharp (pictured above), was recently named #1 on the Watermark Books Best Seller List for March. Congratulations, Bonnie! It's available at Wichita bookstores or Amazon.com for $20.76. If you need to borrow a copy, I will loan you mine. It's autographed by the author herself. Makes a great Mother's Day gift...

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Notable Quote:

"Freedom lies in being bold."--Robert Frost, American poet

No Room in the Inn

2010-03-22T14:18:00.015-05:00

About a month ago, a young lady came upon our garage in a snowstorm. She was cold, wet, dirty, homeless and very hungry. Since this young one was alone in the world, The Hubster and I took her in. We gave her a warm place to sleep in our basement and fed her. Soon, it was apparent that this young lady was with child, er...children.

You see, this young lady is a partially feral black-and-white cat. We named her Socks. Last Tuesday night, after just a couple of hours of labor, Miss Socks gave birth to four sweet and healthy kittens! Since we had never witnessed a feline birth, The Hubster and I researched the subject on the internet and prepared a birthing spot with supplies in the basement. We wanted a warm, clean and calm place for Socks to give birth.

Cats have minds of their own, though, so Socks chose a small dirt crawlspace under wooden shelves with shredded newspapers and a couple of Dillons bags. The kittens seem fine and healthy, no worse for wear. Socks took right to motherhood. She feeds and cleans them and keeps them warm. Socks also seems to be aware that we are helping her, so she greets us when we enter the room, allows us to pet her and view the kittens. Hopefully she will move them to a more suitable location soon. I will keep you updated.

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Saturday marked the spring equinox and, because God has a quirky sense of humor, He sent a huge snowstorm! That's right, down here in Ark City we had at least six inches of wet, sloppy spring snow to contend with. And I thought that we had all that stuff we needed for the year. The snow boots had to come out for one last blast before next fall. Thankfully, it melted so quickly I didn't need to shovel the sidewalks. You know how much I love to do that!

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I taught the high school Sunday School class on Sunday morning. Trying to come up with new and unique perspectives on Bible subjects is a challenge that I enjoy. Hanging out with teenagers recharges your batteries. They provoke, they inspire, they drive you nuts, but it's all for growth...yours and theirs.

I taught on Jeremiah 1: 4-9 "Then the word of the Lord came unto me, saying, [5] Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations. [6] Then said I, Ah, Lord God! behold, I cannot speak: for I am a child.[7] But the Lord said unto me, Say not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee thou shalt speak. [8] Be not afraid of their faces: for I am with thee to deliver thee, saith the Lord. [9] Then the Lord put forth his hand, and touched my mouth. And the Lord said unto me, Behold, I have put my words in thy mouth."

I love to think about this passage. Wherever you are in life, whatever your past, no matter your age, God has a plan for your life and you have His Seal of Approval. Good stuff!

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I am remembering The Hubster's Granny Moore today. She passed away one year ago. What a lovely, strong woman. Granny was smart, funny, a great cook and terrific gardener. I loved to spend time just talking with her. She was well-read, too. Do you have strong women in your life?

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Momala's Book Club: I finished "Boo Humbug" by Rene Gutteridge last week. Have you read any of her books? They are so funny and engaging. This Christian fiction writer lives in Oklahoma City, and doesn't knock you over the head with her faith. It's gentle and real. I have the complete "Boo" series of books and now hope to read some of her other books.

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I started a Facebook page for the Cowley County Writers Guild. This page will provide information for members on meeting times and activities and also bring a weekly writing tip. You don't have to be a writer or even be a local to be a "friend" on Facebook. Check it out!

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Exercise Update: I did three aerobic workouts last week and only two sets of hand-weight calisthenics. I did a lot of vacuuming and scrubbing in the house and church this week, so I count that as exercise, too.

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Notable Quote:

"Cats are smarter than dogs. You can't get eight cats to pull a sled through snow."--Jeff Valdez

"Just a Little Bump"

2010-03-15T19:20:00.011-05:00

"Just a Little Bump" is the working title of a short story I'm currently writing. The 2010 Kansas Authors Club Contest deadline is June 15 and I want to give myself plenty of leeway. Although this story is fiction, it is based on a life event. I am a cancer survivor of 23 years.

On the day I gave birth to our youngest daughter, I found out that I had a malignant melanoma on my right arm. The mole there started to grow and change during my pregnancy. The doctors called it a "hormonally fed cancer." After a small biopsy and confirmed diagnosis, I had surgery to remove a large section of my right bicep. Thanks be to God, I did not have to have chemotherapy or radiation treatment.

The real heroes of this story are God, my husband, my daughters and my wonderful mom and dad, who gave me support, love and sacrificed their time to help me heal. Now I have a good-sized scar on my arm. Some days I hide it, and others I show it off. Some days I tell people the real story of what made that scar, and others I spin a tall tale of scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef.

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The Hubster and I started spring cleaning on Saturday with...the basement. That dark, smelly hole had been neglected since last spring and was in dire need of a domestic intervention. Our basement is kind of a catch-all for discarded computer guts, pet supplies and a zany melange of lawn chairs, luggage and old toys. We spent a couple of hours vacuuming, sweeping, dusting and throwing away old junk. There were dust bunnies the size of buffaloes!

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Spring Forward hit me hard this year. That's a lie, it hits me hard every year. We usually set our alarm for eight a.m. on Sundays, but I woke up at seven a.m. yesterday for some reason. That means I actually woke up at SIX A.M.! Carol is not a morning person. This morning, I had a lot of trouble waking up and walked around like a zombie until 10 a.m. Can't wait for Fall Back!

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Exercise Update: I did four aerobic workouts and two sets of hand-weight calisthenics last week. The new disco workout video is a lot of fun and makes the time go faster.

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Notable Quote:

"The goal is to live a full, productive life even with all that ambiguity. No matter what happens, whether the cancer never flares up again or whether you die, the important thing is that the days that you have you will have lived."--Gilda Radner

"I Do Set My Bow in the Cloud"

2010-03-08T19:17:00.011-06:00

God gave a beautiful display this evening, after a day of thunderstorms. This double rainbow was complete and placed directly in front of our house. Of course, my photography skills are limited, so I just got a portion of it. Sorry!

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Momala's Book Club Review: It took just five days to read "Feisty Family Values," by B.D. Tharp. This hen-lit novel is a quick read and full of substance. "Feisty" is a real slice-of-life story, not some pretty thing that's tied up in a bow in the end. It is hopeful, though, and full of fun. Annabelle is the poor relation to Regina, and shows up on her doorstep, hankie in hand. She arrives uninvited with just a suitcase and a black eye. Regina, Annabelle's cousin, resides in a lovely historic home with her best friend, Tillie. Although reticent to welcome her cousin in to their grandmother's home, Tillie convinces Regina to do the right thing. As the three 60-something ladies become roommates, they are all dealing with their own burdens. Tillie has breast cancer, Annabelle was abused by her daughter and now fears for her three grandchildren, and Regina's dead snobby mother still haunts her daily thoughts. A mature romance develops between chef Tillie and Joe, the handsome ex-military neighbor. I appreciated that each of the three main characters faced her fears and worked through them. No more fainting, dainty damsels! These are real women, facing life with the cards they were dealt. There is some mild sensuality in the book and a small amount of "colorful" language. By the way, the story is set in Wichita, and you'll recognize the landmarks. B.D. Tharp, the author, is a friend and member of Kansas Writers Association. "Feisty Family Values" is her first novel and you can meet her at a number of locations in the area, as she is conducting a book tour. To find out more about her or look up her schedule, go here: www.bdtharp.com.

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As if you need another reason to enjoy the change of seasons, there are a number of great sales on. I got two pairs of cute shoes for just $41 at Kohls last week. If you haven't heard, I'm a bit of a shoe fanatic. The search for the perfect pair of black pumps started just after Christmas, and last week...there they were! These pumps are darling, with pointy-toes and kitten heels, not too tall. I also picked up a pair of black suede short boots, perfect for next fall with jeans and cords. That's me...always thinking ahead!

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Arkansas City Police Department has a new recruit. His name is Lee, and he's handsome, dark and strong. Oh, and he lives just around the corner from me! Before you all jump to any romantic conclusions...Lee's a German Shepherd! (Photos to follow)Yes, ACPD has their first K-9 officer. Life in the big city...

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Exercise Update: I have been a slacker, so I only did two aerobic workouts last week and three sets of hand weight calisthenics. However, I borrowed a Disco Sweat DVD last weekend, and tried it today. Fun, and the music helps me work out longer.

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Notable Quote:

"Hearts entirely surrendered to God can ordinarily be trusted."--Beth Moore, author