tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-91497565205308642412024-03-12T20:26:47.877-04:00HoliMessOne thing I ask from the LORD,
this only do I seek:
that I may dwell in the house of the LORD
all the days of my life,
to gaze on the beauty of the LORD
and to seek him in his temple.
Psalm 27:4Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10466502873197484041noreply@blogger.comBlogger386125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9149756520530864241.post-14762637127152687402015-03-29T13:13:00.003-04:002015-03-29T13:13:36.510-04:00Palm Sunday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuSq1RLRZ2kR2LWM8c3-q5du8KQFG2GFyZ75bEcYnHmnvNAQ1Ldw5sTngX0cSbbBhEOrc7Wd985v1eblEBzQK5CgyxSyeCd7E8TcoARHreBTvvcME_SQr_TDX0egK7_2-3ZUvUOGfM67_H/s1600/IMG_5438.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuSq1RLRZ2kR2LWM8c3-q5du8KQFG2GFyZ75bEcYnHmnvNAQ1Ldw5sTngX0cSbbBhEOrc7Wd985v1eblEBzQK5CgyxSyeCd7E8TcoARHreBTvvcME_SQr_TDX0egK7_2-3ZUvUOGfM67_H/s1600/IMG_5438.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
In Mark 11:1-11 We read about Jesus entering Jerusalem on what became known as Palm Sunday during the week of His crucifixion.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
As they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethpage and Bethany at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two of his disciples saying to them, “Go to the village ahead of you, and just as you enter it, you will find a colt tied there, which no one has ever ridden…”When they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their cloaks over it, He sat on it. Many people spread their cloaks on the road, while others spread branches they had cut in the fields. Those who went ahead and those who followed shouted, “Hosanna!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David!” “Hosanna in the highest!”<br />Jesus entered Jerusalem and went to the temple. He looked around at everything, but since it was already late, he went out to Bethany with the Twelve.</blockquote>
Jesus the Son of God entered the Temple as a somewhat notorious carpenter from Galilee. He looked around at everything, taking it all in. The Temple would have been crowded with people who had come to make a Passover sacrifice. There would have been the buzzing hum of the crowd, punctuated by the cries from the moneychangers. Lambs bleating. Smoke rising from the sacrificial altars. <br />
When Jesus, the Son of God, entered the Temple, there were parts of it that would have been barred to him. Only a person making a sacrifice could be admitted into the Court of the Priests, and then only to sacrifice their lamb. The person would then be pushed aside to give room for the next person to make their sacrifice. But Jesus, who was Himself the lamb, did not bring a sacrifice, and so the Court of the Priests would have been closed off to Him.<br />
The most sacred space of all within the Temple, the inner sanctuary, the Holy of Holies, was also prohibited to Jesus. Only the High Priest was allowed to enter the Holy of Holies.<br />
Jesus entered the Temple and looked around and because it was late, He left. And it was late. The crucifixion loomed just a few short days away. At Jesus’ death the Temple curtain in the Holy of Holies would be torn in two by the very hand of God, signifying that nothing can separate us from the love of God.<br />
Because of the sacrifice of Jesus on a lonesome cross, every one of us has access to the very heart of God. We can fall into the embrace of a loving God through our forgiveness in Jesus. Sometimes we like to think that God only sees our cleaned up church selves, but He also sees our Monday morning pre-coffee self, too. He sees all the secret places of our heart.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the first born from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood, and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father - to him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen. ~Rev. 1:5-6</blockquote>
Won’t you allow Jesus in to the temple of your heart? The time is growing late.<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/110/8D8F1ACF21664C267F783793C6B71E1E.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10466502873197484041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9149756520530864241.post-85976869936774383032015-02-27T14:44:00.000-05:002015-02-27T14:44:31.562-05:00What I Learned in February<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/lG-7e1vaB18" width="480"></iframe><br /></div>
1. I was amazed at how beautiful Bratz dolls could be with a simple change in "makeup." They look like dolls should look. Beautiful.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2LAPd2Yq6R-mHQQkwSR4FeuhKgfre-EnzLKw2loAyJpjg9wxr_pN1LJbobtcLa8TIiXJPHirutAmKM2XNOhM35p5Jt5Pn7lyKFI6H9I_dpMt-RQWeHxUQMB5S96WquKsZGVd6p8tK-FNl/s1600/God's%2Bmasterpiece.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2LAPd2Yq6R-mHQQkwSR4FeuhKgfre-EnzLKw2loAyJpjg9wxr_pN1LJbobtcLa8TIiXJPHirutAmKM2XNOhM35p5Jt5Pn7lyKFI6H9I_dpMt-RQWeHxUQMB5S96WquKsZGVd6p8tK-FNl/s1600/God's%2Bmasterpiece.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
2. I still remember <a href="http://holimess.blogspot.com/2015/02/poeima.html" target="_blank">a poem I wrote in fourth grade</a>. I got a C.<br />
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<a href="http://holimess.blogspot.com/2015/02/my-three-favorite-winter-moisturizers.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQDswB469PWlQ53AEY0zABBKpO06KcSZSOPGxPE4ayv1T7VqvdWARIi7CmUeEX5qSA3DwCyqsg5n9DEsVXjQDgyPANI_sefKK4mFeGrPWbliF9JRH7hUAm2E8vhyphenhyphenQ0RyrtuU3VvPz2-2Sb/s1600/Winter+Moisturizers.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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3. My <a href="http://holimess.blogspot.com/2015/02/my-three-favorite-winter-moisturizers.html" target="_blank">three favorite winter moisturizers</a> are from Beautycounter.<br />
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<a href="http://holimess.blogspot.com/2015/02/dancing-on-ceiling.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheKVwRHOZU_xPwbekT6zED0Eta9yIUoyNzmMsbpSns2atGdQ62-IXbSn1kUiEFsVTMyVBrhSdv3nJuyQ5gFwZtXIeQ_eufr3N6dX2e_PWbyzeP00GHncs9RGyJgSWjlyVSSHRK2cEFAJrl/s1600/patty+2.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
4. When walking in an attic it is very important to step on the joists and not on the sheetrock. <a href="http://holimess.blogspot.com/2015/02/dancing-on-ceiling.html" target="_blank">My daughter learned this very important fact the hard way.</a><br />
5. The last time Congress passed a law regulating cosmetics was in 1938. We deserve better. The European Union has spent the past two decades banning or restricting more than 1,300 ingredients, the US has only banned 11 to date. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/110/8D8F1ACF21664C267F783793C6B71E1E.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10466502873197484041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9149756520530864241.post-56370656972247379832015-02-22T08:07:00.001-05:002015-02-22T08:07:30.529-05:00Poeima<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin5Kw4_9QhJf-uPi2xJ4ScEijxM1W5fA9l6aHjIRS7t05NHldKAyb5kpTpzFYUd_sDhN5i0zwkED4yRQLkItu2xu-gANmUkpvafGFyZGOxG5j9S2RAY3yRHSnKp70zyCeGRURy7XrB_Bj6/s1600/masterpiece+paintbrush.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin5Kw4_9QhJf-uPi2xJ4ScEijxM1W5fA9l6aHjIRS7t05NHldKAyb5kpTpzFYUd_sDhN5i0zwkED4yRQLkItu2xu-gANmUkpvafGFyZGOxG5j9S2RAY3yRHSnKp70zyCeGRURy7XrB_Bj6/s1600/masterpiece+paintbrush.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. ~Ephesians 2:10</blockquote>
For we are God’s handiwork, His workmanship, and His masterpiece. The original word is poiema; which means “made, crafted, or composed. <br />
Poiema is where our English word poem came from. Poems are paintings with words using rhyme and rhythm. The poet carefully chooses each word for it’s meaning and cadence to tell a story or convey an emotion.<br />
When I was in fourth grade our class was given the assignment to write an original rhyming poem about a state that we would like to visit. I still remember the first stanza.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Florida is the land I’d like to see.<br />
Where oranges grow upon a tree.<br />
Where oceans make a lot of noise.<br />
And little children play with toys.<br />
That’s why,<br />
Florida is the land I’d like to see.</blockquote>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFY0n5I3wt3wM2eaLDldeXr0-RORkgXP17eLzMoB4A_eikA8b23DeD2VRJ4s1qn6jLpJN2J9JWDh2IysokeAWX8JLcmDzI1TxdXqBdB-4nj-yyEiBvMWyDw9zBTcq2FeMOEX2bKBACJO_J/s1600/God's%2Bmasterpiece.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFY0n5I3wt3wM2eaLDldeXr0-RORkgXP17eLzMoB4A_eikA8b23DeD2VRJ4s1qn6jLpJN2J9JWDh2IysokeAWX8JLcmDzI1TxdXqBdB-4nj-yyEiBvMWyDw9zBTcq2FeMOEX2bKBACJO_J/s1600/God's%2Bmasterpiece.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
I was quite proud of it at the time. My teacher was not so impressed. She gave me a C. Perhaps if she had known that it would have a public recitation almost 50 years later, I would have done better.<br />
God, unlike me, is a poet. He is the Master Poet. God, who paints the sunset and calls the stars by name, wants to compose a poem out of your life. You are the subject of God’s poem. His work of art. His masterpiece. It may be that our life is tattered with imperfections and confusion. We may feel like an unfinished work. Other’s may even believe that we rate a C. But we are in the hands of the Master Poet. <br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! ~2 Corinthians 5:17.</blockquote>
Jesus looks at you, and at me, and He doesn't see us just for what we are. He sees us for what we are in Him. We see a lump of clay; God sees a beautiful vessel. We see a blank canvas; God sees a finished painting. We see problems; God sees solutions. We see failures; God sees a finished work. We see a Jacob; God sees an Israel.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
But now, this is what the Lord says—<br />
he who created you, Jacob,<br />
he who formed you, Israel:<br />
“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;<br />
I have summoned you by name; you are mine.<br />
When you pass through the waters,<br />
I will be with you;<br />
and when you pass through the rivers,<br />
they will not sweep over you.<br />
When you walk through the fire,<br />
you will not be burned;<br />
the flames will not set you ablaze.<br />
For I am the Lord your God,<br />
the Holy One of Israel, your Savior; ~Isaiah 43:1-3a</blockquote>
God picks up the pieces of our lives to display His beauty and creativity. We are His masterpiece. We bear His signature. We are His poeima.<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/110/8D8F1ACF21664C267F783793C6B71E1E.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10466502873197484041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9149756520530864241.post-70126003171643024612015-02-16T19:28:00.002-05:002015-02-16T19:28:26.456-05:00How is God In Your Story?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's the children's eyes that grab me. The eyes that make me catch my breath. The eyes that have seen too much. The eyes that have known hunger. Some children gaze from their photo with a shy confidence, still others with a fragile hope.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsqtR5slJ4xrYj-TTpWmEpAYzV0LQlr22wpKlIWZoF9WwtNitBAEc2ZhmrLw_IdNnFp0BKsweY5kELTDCXsjSN92jN6sW72_Kms04uYDAXwL6j3Luyn3cPBD3_rsRXtqwRIi5y6bUzOOAw/s1600/How+is+God+in+your+story.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsqtR5slJ4xrYj-TTpWmEpAYzV0LQlr22wpKlIWZoF9WwtNitBAEc2ZhmrLw_IdNnFp0BKsweY5kELTDCXsjSN92jN6sW72_Kms04uYDAXwL6j3Luyn3cPBD3_rsRXtqwRIi5y6bUzOOAw/s1600/How+is+God+in+your+story.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
Compassion Bloggers are visiting the Dominican Republic this week. Through their stories, Compassion hopes to sponsor 300 children. Go <a href="http://www.compassion.com/become-a-sponsor-dashboard/dominican-republic.htm?referer=123801" target="_blank">here to see how many have been sponsored so far</a>.<br />
<a href="http://www.faithbarista.com/" target="_blank">Bonnie, who writes at Faith Barista,</a> posted a short video of an interview she did with fifteen year old Francimar. During her interview, Bonnie asked, "<b>How is God in your story</b>?' Her question reached out and caught me. How is God in <b>my</b> story? How is He in yours? Is there room in your story to sponsor a child through <a href="http://www.compassion.com/sponsor_a_child/default.htm" target="_blank">Compassion</a>?<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/110/8D8F1ACF21664C267F783793C6B71E1E.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10466502873197484041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9149756520530864241.post-31757641136921045692015-02-13T09:31:00.000-05:002015-02-13T09:33:17.883-05:00Talent for the Task The Good Morning Girls at <a href="http://womenlivingwell.org/" target="_blank">Women Living Well</a> are reading through the book of Exodus during the months of February and March. I am joining them on this journey.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFJf25dmYSVTql7e8Cp2cy8wPBNl8qk3aDutAH8tFzzWqJ9krH2rlUwCW4BdEkgZY8ww0eQOFu_BDWgqFWgAjW8udMpMAfOVV6xHXt4jNKxLJxVYTQ9bb8E8it82ET1O1hyphenhyphenUdscBmGsWlE/s1600/Announcing-The-Book-of-Exodus-300x239.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFJf25dmYSVTql7e8Cp2cy8wPBNl8qk3aDutAH8tFzzWqJ9krH2rlUwCW4BdEkgZY8ww0eQOFu_BDWgqFWgAjW8udMpMAfOVV6xHXt4jNKxLJxVYTQ9bb8E8it82ET1O1hyphenhyphenUdscBmGsWlE/s1600/Announcing-The-Book-of-Exodus-300x239.jpg" /></a></div>
You can read my other Exodus posts here:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Exodus 1-5 <a href="http://holimess.blogspot.com/2015/01/burning-bush.html" target="_blank">The Burning Bush </a></li>
<li>Exodus 6-10 <a href="http://holimess.blogspot.com/2015/01/exodus.html" target="_blank">Great Lengths</a></li>
<li>Exodus 11-15 <a href="http://holimess.blogspot.com/2015/01/brave-grace.html" target="_blank">Brave Grace</a></li>
<li>Exodus 16-20 <a href="http://holimess.blogspot.com/2015/02/support-on-hill.html" target="_blank">Support on the Hill</a></li>
</ul>
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This weeks reading is all about the construction of the Tabernacle and the items that would go into it. I was impressed with the level of detail that God provided in His instructions on building the Tabernacle. God gave specific materials, lengths, and designs for each item that went into it. The lampstands were to be made of gold and look like flowering branches. The ten curtains were to be skillfully woven of fine linen in blue, purple, and scarlet bordered with cherubim. The frame of the structure was to be made of acacia wood overlaid with gold. Even the priests sacred clothing had about six different parts. It all sounded extremely complicated. I was rather glad that God didn’t ask me to build His tabernacle. I just know it would be lopsided and unworthy of Him in every way. But then I noticed, that God gave the ability and talent to the workers who were asked to complete the Tabernacle.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Tell all the skilled workers to whom <b>I have given wisdom</b> in such matters that they are to make garments for Aaron, for his consecration, so he may serve me as priest. ~Exodus 28:3</blockquote>
I peeked ahead to Exodus 31 where God tells Moses that He has chosen and given Bezalel the talent to do the work required.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Then the Lord said to Moses, “See, I have chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, and <b>I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills</b>— to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, to cut and set stones, to work in wood, and to engage in all kinds of crafts. Moreover, I have appointed Oholiab son of Ahisamak, of the tribe of Dan, to help him. Also I have given ability to all the skilled workers to make everything I have commanded you: ~Exodus 31:1-6</blockquote>
When God had directed Moses from the burning bush to speak to Pharaoh, Moses had hesitated and questioned whether he had the skills necessary. He told God that he was "slow of speech." So God supported Moses with Aaron. In this instance, God reminds Moses that the talent has already been provided.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKsLAstODX3rVl2haKe5zy4O4CrzFJscW4z49yl9rK0lu5wj00SIJQUOTr3Aj1ufXNxpwRZwuKNHEQXqgyFxN5dswk-LSHLFzh9iHJVg3qy4xQ_lmhPcm8XwZsAgvZp2gOPHiTHDV1_yFc/s1600/Moses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKsLAstODX3rVl2haKe5zy4O4CrzFJscW4z49yl9rK0lu5wj00SIJQUOTr3Aj1ufXNxpwRZwuKNHEQXqgyFxN5dswk-LSHLFzh9iHJVg3qy4xQ_lmhPcm8XwZsAgvZp2gOPHiTHDV1_yFc/s1600/Moses.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
While you and I see all of our many failures and lacks, God sees the potential that He has tucked inside. He has graciously provided the skills to do the tasks He has set before us. He will give us understanding, knowledge, and wisdom to do the work that He has assigned us. He has filled us with His Holy Spirit. This knowledge helps us to step out of our comfort zone and risk failure to try something new. God gives ordinary people, extra-ordinary talents for His glory.<br />
What has God asked you to use your talent for?<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/110/8D8F1ACF21664C267F783793C6B71E1E.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10466502873197484041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9149756520530864241.post-12388318867690712672015-02-11T08:53:00.001-05:002015-02-11T20:40:20.806-05:00My Three Favorite Winter Moisturizers. Bad news: Punxsutawney Phil just predicted six more weeks of winter. If you’re anything like me, that means six more weeks of slathering on moisturizer, lip balm and lotion while wishing for warmer days – and less dry skin!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghIj0mTUP6baR6SBVF0pTxJA2JvKyY3SAIB4X9nwM9KkZwaod17b8Am-SR7o3Vmk_9MhSSEg0mbMxWdP5IUltKvmqJWO6Apz1N_S4tCreVvGABqAwvFsWK4zfHQqn66ZvzOSK8j_ILyjDL/s1600/Winter+Moisturizers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="beautycounter" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghIj0mTUP6baR6SBVF0pTxJA2JvKyY3SAIB4X9nwM9KkZwaod17b8Am-SR7o3Vmk_9MhSSEg0mbMxWdP5IUltKvmqJWO6Apz1N_S4tCreVvGABqAwvFsWK4zfHQqn66ZvzOSK8j_ILyjDL/s1600/Winter+Moisturizers.jpg" height="400" title="winter moisturizers" width="266" /></a></div>
Moisturizers are one of the best ways to keep your skin healthy and hydrated. But like all personal care products, they sometimes contain ingredients that are potentially toxic. The trouble is, chemicals with strong links to cancer and endocrine disruption – think parabens, phthalates and formaldehyde – are in many of the personal care products we use every day. Which is why I use Beauty Counter for my family.<br />
Our favorite products are:<br />
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<a href="http://www.beautycounter.com/skin-care/moisturizers/nourishing-cleansing-balm.html/?ConsultantFirstName=Donna&ConsultantID=114923&ConsultantLastName=McMorrow" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUsE1WVZYB1rFBa-Lpzo-6XzOQvXyONp1MT4EgjVGT2D6lhBUJEBGAG5G7NW67tiVFrgkFGpEQfJxE0vzxMmW1qGJRLzUthFOjZuqLd4RikqrEW5bkllDZ9-9UAjPMl99zd7bG7ttvgItB/s1600/beautycounter-countertime-nourishing_cleansing_balm-495x650_1.jpg" height="320" width="243" /></a></div>
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<li><a href="http://www.beautycounter.com/skin-care/moisturizers/nourishing-cleansing-balm.html/?ConsultantFirstName=Donna&ConsultantID=114923&ConsultantLastName=McMorrow" target="_blank"><b>Nourishing Cleansing Balm</b>: </a> Nourishing Cleansing Balm melts into your skin, while removing makeup, and it moisturizes as it cleanses. I use it as an overnight face masque for extra hydration. Raspberry Seed Oil and Cranberry Seed Oil hydrate and revitalize the skin, while Vitamin C brightens skin tone. This makes my skin look and feel amazing. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.beautycounter.com/cosmetics/lips/lip-conditioner-peppermint-balm.html/?ConsultantFirstName=Donna&ConsultantID=114923&ConsultantLastName=McMorrow" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcUzDTMZawYZb_L_72c2auAvPzOWBg6IPWXd13YP95n17tXt0ghwox41URLRXMGCiUGAH9L1zewEHtgR7cf-ohb7hrAm6tCcyY7bw02Ohay2g4iZ9H0rK10Y2YaYbULO01CsWm9lWfqcAd/s1600/beautycounter-lip_conditioner-peppermint-balm-495x650.jpg" height="320" width="243" /></a></div>
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</li>
<li><b><a href="http://www.beautycounter.com/cosmetics/lips/lip-conditioner-peppermint-balm.html/?ConsultantFirstName=Donna&ConsultantID=114923&ConsultantLastName=McMorrow" target="_blank">Lip Conditioner Peppermint Balm:</a> </b>This is my daughter, Patty's, favorite. This balm is made with regenerative Avocado Oil, Shea Butter, Meadowfoam Seed Oil, and Jojoba Seed Oil. Just apply when you are going out in the cold or anytime your lips feel dry or chapped. I like to put it on before bed. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.beautycounter.com/best-sellers/glow-sugar-scrub.html/?ConsultantFirstName=Donna&ConsultantID=114923&ConsultantLastName=McMorrow" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9AK4rQVeZ7dXztByCFXDEU7LzznkrkWgylZkotUaqyIsEcnBgVpCmQOCDN10W7JYp0EPMIpTG8nI7NNl6G1PLXURYKUxetTOORG-NVOaTu2W4-v81ElwVCjjsvqTgoCcvBSca2foKx7Yq/s1600/beautycounter-glow-sugar_scrub-495x650.jpg" height="320" width="243" /></a></div>
</li>
<li><b><a href="http://www.beautycounter.com/best-sellers/glow-sugar-scrub.html/?ConsultantFirstName=Donna&ConsultantID=114923&ConsultantLastName=McMorrow" target="_blank">Glow Sugar Scrub:</a> </b>Brown sugar buffs away dull skin cells while mineral-rich evening primrose, sweet almond, apricot kernel, and sunflower oils leave skin looking supple and smooth. Glow Sugar Scrub smells delicious. Use it in the shower and your skin will feel smooth, soft, and hydrated.</li>
</ol>
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Disclosure: As a cancer survivor, I know how important it is to choose safe products for my family and myself, which is why I became a Beauty Counter Consultant. I will be paid should you make a purchase through my website, however, the opinions are my own and I would never recommend a product that I did not know and love.<br />
There is no better time to check out <a href="http://www.beautycounter.com/?ConsultantFirstName=Donna&ConsultantID=114923&ConsultantLastName=McMorrow" target="_blank">Beauty Counter.</a><br />
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=9149756520530864241" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=9149756520530864241" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10466502873197484041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9149756520530864241.post-8282831935261105732015-02-11T08:04:00.000-05:002015-02-11T20:39:45.062-05:00Dancing on the Ceiling Pat and I have been completing all kinds of home projects. And when I say we, I mean we. Pat and I have put up crown molding, replaced windows, taken down decks and a pool, painted most of our rooms, taken down walls, replaced sheetrock, ripped out a cast iron tub, and well a lot of things. We have suffered smashed fingers and toes, splinters, paint in our hair, sore muscles, and frequent trips to Home Depot and Lowes. Pat now has pain in his left shoulder and is having trouble lifting things. The kids have been somewhat involved, but really most of the work is accomplished when they are at school or work.<br />
All of our work led to a mountain of debris. So Pat ordered a 24 foot dumpster. This lovely ornament was parked in our driveway. I’m sure that our neighbors were thrilled. While the dumpster was gracing our yard we decided that we should take advantage of it to rid ourselves of things that we had stored in the attics and forgotten about. <br />
We have two attics. One over the second floor of the house reachable with a ladder from the hallway and one over the garage. The one over the garage is quite high. The access panel is about 14 feet up from the concrete floor above a stair landing. Both attics held boxes of books, games, old suitcases, and random empty boxes for appliances that have long since broken and been discarded. I think we found the box for the Tandy Computer we bought in 1985.<br />
We enlisted the help of the kids and Brian who was home visiting. We were organized. It was a beautiful thing. We started in the house attic. Pat went into the attic which has a plywood floor in the storage area. Pat handed boxes down to Patty who stood on the ladder. Brian, Anthony, and I trudged up and down the stairs to the dumpster and back. Connor served as doorman, in a vain attempt to keep some heat in the house. The Middle School lesson plans I had so carefully stored for 17 years vanished into the depths of the dumpster. I think that I heard angels singing. But that is another story. Ten minutes later that attic was empty, so we moved down to the garage.<br />
We lost the doorman and the 17 year old in the move. Pat set the ladder on the stair landing and climbed back up into the attic. This attic has a piece of plywood across a rafter. Anyone going up there has to remember to step on the joists or risk falling through the ceiling. Sheetrock is not meant to support any weight. As an added hazard, because we had boxes of siding on the garage floor for another project, our large tools - including the tile saw, were placed pretty much under the part of the attic that we were emptying. Fortunately, there were just a few boxes and some old games up there. I yelled at my husband to be careful. I didn’t yell because I was being bossy, I yelled because we also had an air compressor going because the laser machine in the garage was running a piece. We were multi-tasking.<br />
Patty resumed her position at the base of the ladder and Brian and I took the junk out to the dumpster. We were decluttering! We were getting stuff done! I was thrilled!<br />
When I noticed that Patty was also missing in action, I incorrectly assumed that she had followed her younger brothers into the house to get warm. Patty was actually up in the attic. I discovered this when I walked back into the garage and saw Patty dangling from the ceiling! <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEickOhweI_wB26nJwZHcGl3V3FIqI4lVl0wTWVheWujn2CPX3Nj8LNLzjRada5Vg6yB3YXw90KskvB1RnVEsd8nOLcrK0KpwJz7sSJeD0woVYdm-aHi_UrFu8NfNqrTuGoO8sqgEszbMVjn/s1600/pattty+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEickOhweI_wB26nJwZHcGl3V3FIqI4lVl0wTWVheWujn2CPX3Nj8LNLzjRada5Vg6yB3YXw90KskvB1RnVEsd8nOLcrK0KpwJz7sSJeD0woVYdm-aHi_UrFu8NfNqrTuGoO8sqgEszbMVjn/s1600/pattty+1.jpg" height="320" title="sheetrock, attic, falling through ceiling" width="244" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is where my daughter was hanging!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There was my beloved daughter, dangling through a huge hole in the ceiling, over the tools and the saw. Through the cloud of plaster dust, I could see one long leg, her bottom and the skin of her waist and back. Her clothing looked like it had been ripped by a nail. Thankfully, there wasn’t any visible blood. <br />
Pat was on the ladder, head in the attic. I screamed, not that anyone could hear with the compressor going, and rushed up the stairs and the ladder trying to get to Patty. Pat blocked me. He yelled at me over the noise of the compressor, telling me that she was fine. As you may have guessed I argued this point. How could she possible be fine, she was hanging out of the ceiling! Pat refused to let me up there correctly surmising that I would also fall through the ceiling. But Pat wasn’t rushing up there either, remember he hurt his shoulder. Instead, Pat calmly talked Patty, who had managed to straddle the joists, back onto the beams and out of the attic. When she was safely back on the ground with no bones broken, the experience became a bit of an adventure to her. As for me, I went outside, kicked the dumpster and said some very unkind things. It was not my finest moment.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW4anFi5O5CJRkBtMgkDpId8sAk-xc6wbNM0qJbg-0XoMdbR2aBoxQ_ayZftk0rm5SCXrzuuMnlxxpRaBLhCAIQ6MlrkdFaRtd__jBYbKj8YevMBnYo6rC1DIZdWWz4zzDWl-OHirHQaes/s1600/patty+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="falling through ceiling" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW4anFi5O5CJRkBtMgkDpId8sAk-xc6wbNM0qJbg-0XoMdbR2aBoxQ_ayZftk0rm5SCXrzuuMnlxxpRaBLhCAIQ6MlrkdFaRtd__jBYbKj8YevMBnYo6rC1DIZdWWz4zzDWl-OHirHQaes/s1600/patty+2.jpg" height="266" title="home renovation" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Home renovation is not for the faint of heart.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Now I know what you are thinking. What scripture matches this occasion? <br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Behold, the LORD’S hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear: ~Is. 59:1</blockquote>
Accidents happen shattering our sense of self control. There are times when the floor shifts beneath us. Our feet slip and we are left dangling, feeling unsupported. We feel alone, scared, devastated. Sometimes we suffer watching a family member in a life threatening situation.<br />
But the truth is we are not alone. God is in our midst. We are precious to Him.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. ~Rom. 8:38,39</blockquote>
Whatever you are facing today, remember God loves you. He desires you. He forgives you. He died to bring you to Him.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
There is no one like the God of Jeshurun, who rides across the heavens to help you and on the clouds in his majesty. The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. ~Deuteronomy 33:26-27 </blockquote>
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/110/8D8F1ACF21664C267F783793C6B71E1E.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D9149756520530864241%23editor&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F2.bp.blogspot.com%252F-cF5mbr7URi8%252FVMWWOTqoKiI%252FAAAAAAAAE-4%252Fc61NX0c5Mlk%252Fs1600%252Fpattty%25252B1.jpg%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 231px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 690px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D9149756520530864241%23editor&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F2.bp.blogspot.com%252F-cF5mbr7URi8%252FVMWWOTqoKiI%252FAAAAAAAAE-4%252Fc61NX0c5Mlk%252Fs1600%252Fpattty%25252B1.jpg%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 231px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 690px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10466502873197484041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9149756520530864241.post-29328885800205830892015-02-07T17:17:00.001-05:002015-02-07T17:17:08.681-05:00When Oceans Rise<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5OM8hwRUtHffLsJ5fjQ5Ro6o3BAPoRo_tzTU5nfNBbRcJZVyRlN7j2iHz29RAJS0tHhbUem-oMUdH4xE7BtUOL6vbijyrBM65ntp7HVJbWvAN2SNID4yXjExBPkbMpu024AaNl0tzdFSj/s1600/oceans.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></div>
Love the way this song ministers to my soul. It can be purchased <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B9ZI5PC/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00B9ZI5PC&linkCode=as2&tag=holi051-20&linkId=JQCTAC73KA4BJ57F" target="_blank">here (affiliate link)</a>.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1m_sWJQm2fs" width="480"></iframe><br /></div>
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<br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=9149756520530864241" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=9149756520530864241" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10466502873197484041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9149756520530864241.post-47667122932807778752015-02-02T19:04:00.001-05:002015-02-02T19:04:21.118-05:00Support on the Hill I have been reading the Book of Exodus with the Good Morning Girls. at <a href="http://womenlivingwell.org/" target="_blank">Women Living Well</a>. My other Exodus posts may be found here.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjut-UofHIbSDukjZT-s6yIJZhR82hRlD8hfr_SnUzc4Cz4eGJ1kifUpONApiyHMHb0cW1Mqu0PdJcy3mMRse2mQTq7x9-ecpUA3GwQAhwckuqx2tKabq5U3vJ8duA7qNhRbX0ciTLNFPEk/s1600/Moses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjut-UofHIbSDukjZT-s6yIJZhR82hRlD8hfr_SnUzc4Cz4eGJ1kifUpONApiyHMHb0cW1Mqu0PdJcy3mMRse2mQTq7x9-ecpUA3GwQAhwckuqx2tKabq5U3vJ8duA7qNhRbX0ciTLNFPEk/s1600/Moses.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Exodus 1-5 <a href="http://holimess.blogspot.com/2015/01/burning-bush.html" target="_blank">The Burning Bush</a> </li>
<li>Exodus 6-10 <a href="http://holimess.blogspot.com/2015/01/exodus.html" target="_blank">Great Lengths</a></li>
<li>Exodus 11-16 <a href="http://holimess.blogspot.com/2015/01/brave-grace.html" target="_blank">Brave Grace</a></li>
</ul>
<br /><br />
In Exodus 17: 8-16, we read of a mighty battle. While Joshua was in the valley fighting a battle, Moses, Aaron, and Hur were up on the hill providing support. As long as Moses held up his hands, the Israelites were winning, but whenever he lowered his hands, the Amalekites were winning. When Moses arms became too tired to hold up the staff, Aaron and Hur held up his arms for him.<br />
That passage is often used to show that we need to support our pastors and our leadership by shouldering some responsibility, lending a word of encouragement or in some way offering them refreshment. I don't disagree with that. However, I think it is can be more than that. It also shows the support our leadership needs to have for the people below them. For example, pastors to congregation, parents to children, bosses to employees. Moses was the leader of the Israelites. He was supported by the second-in-command, Aaron and Hur. Together, they supported the Israelites. To do otherwise would have been to hurt themselves. Our leaders need to be out on that hill, holding up their hands. <br />
We first meet Joshua in this passage. At the time of the battle against the Amalekites, Joshua was far below Moses in the hierarchy. Joshua was on the ground, in the battle. Joshua could have thought, "Look at those guys doing nothing on top of the hill, while I'm down here about to get killed. Why do I have to do all of the work?" But Joshua was obedient to Moses and faithful to God. Joshua succeeded Moses as Israel's leader and became one of only two people who had left Egypt as an adult to actually enter the Promised Land.<br />
God was showing me a larger truth. As Christians living in this world, we are in a battle. Everyday we battle temptation, pressure, and the influences of this world that want us to rebel against God. Our spouses need to know that we are in their corner. Our children need to know it, too. We all go through valleys in our lives and we need support and fellowship to get us through.<br />
Who are the people that you need to provide support to? Think about the arenas in your life, home, church, school, work, or community. Like Moses, we need to lift up holy hands to the throne of the Lord, because the battle is won because of the support on the hill, not necessarily because of the skill of the warriors in the valley.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
This is what the Lord says to you: Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's... The Lord will be with you. ~2 Chronicles 20:15</blockquote>
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D9149756520530864241%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D4766712293280777875%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dposts%3BpostNum%3D0%3Bsrc%3Dlink&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F3.bp.blogspot.com%252F-xmdPuARtp8Q%252FVNAQWjFmmvI%252FAAAAAAAAFAc%252FkuX69BY5_vI%252Fs1600%252FMoses.jpg%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 193px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 54px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D9149756520530864241%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D4766712293280777875%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dposts%3BpostNum%3D0%3Bsrc%3Dlink&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F3.bp.blogspot.com%252F-xmdPuARtp8Q%252FVNAQWjFmmvI%252FAAAAAAAAFAc%252FkuX69BY5_vI%252Fs1600%252FMoses.jpg%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 193px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 54px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10466502873197484041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9149756520530864241.post-41642795888547157622015-01-28T18:51:00.002-05:002015-01-28T18:51:22.617-05:00Four Things I Learned in January<div style="text-align: left;">
1. I love my husband and would marry him all over again. We celebrated <a href="http://holimess.blogspot.com/2015/01/anniversary-35-years.html" target="_blank">35 years of marriage</a> this month.<br />
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJFH_u5M7rRlWr31TveVGwa7jXQ4Py8XpZ3JgtEveY4XXCNr9PsKraZ4LnVuXtl2T1FWX1Yl4dh08xlCDBSY6dtJjG0gJjbpclkKXHp58C0Bw3xgogRVw_EFtuSrPLtlmVj4BjJtKDeWHt/s1600/Our+weddin.jpg" height="320" width="209" /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
2. In the United States 1 out of 3 woman and 1 out of 2 men will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetimes. Autism, learning disabilities, and fertility issues are increasing. Serious illnesses are impacting our children.</div>
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Did you know that the United States has not passed a federal law to regulate the ingredients used in personal care products, shampoo, lotion, and cosmetics since <b>1938</b>. The European Union has spent the past two decades banning or restricting more than <b>1,300</b> ingredients, <b>the US has only banned 11</b> to date. Companies are allowed to use known toxins, ingredients that have been linked to cancer, reproductive issues,and hormone disruption, <b>without telling us, </b>and can legally say they are following the regulations!</div>
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As a breast cancer survivor, I was appalled to learn this. It is time for a change. As wives and mothers, we need to be better informed so that we can make healthier choices for our families.<br />
Two things you can do right now:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
a. Download the FREE <a href="http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/users-guide-to-skin-deep/" target="_blank">Skin Deep</a> app to your phone. You can scan the barcode of a product and receive its safety rating. For those with allergies, the database will let you know what products contain it, other names for it, and alternatives. I have been scanning the products on the counters in my house. Some real surprises. The video below is an Overview of the Environmental Working Group (EWG). The EWG sponsors Skin Deep.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6CPf11v-Qbw" width="480"></iframe><br /></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;"> b. Read </span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Little-Changes-Reluctant-Eco-Momics-Pioneer/dp/0984009647/ref=as_sl_pc_qf_sp_asin_til?tag=holi051-20&linkCode=w00&linkId=GM3SZSZ2LOHTECLD&creativeASIN=0984009647" style="text-align: left;" target="_blank">Little Changes:Tales of a Reluctant Home Eco-Momics Pioneer</a><span style="text-align: left;"> (affiliate link). Kristi Marsh is a breast cancer survivor who shows how making little changes in choices of products and foods that you bring into your home can help to ease the toxic load on ourselves and our families.</span><br />
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3. My daughter, Patty made these awesome <a href="http://holimess.blogspot.com/2015/01/minion-cupcakes.html" target="_blank">Minion Cupcakes</a> for a church social. They were the cutest things. You could add little footballs and green icing to serve them for Super Bowl Sunday. So cute!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlPxnaWqL5KnIHejPdUjaqj0zpZE5yR4Lpe_KtD4RhjcnOg6pTgSQuv9dkIcMr9ERiEYxJ8mrQiXYgRwhHgFPfkIrZM0ZkxCqTV-YecqDkTEMvfl1ZU8J0XJsfVADQGVflt9QYowgpfnVb/s1600/Minions.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlPxnaWqL5KnIHejPdUjaqj0zpZE5yR4Lpe_KtD4RhjcnOg6pTgSQuv9dkIcMr9ERiEYxJ8mrQiXYgRwhHgFPfkIrZM0ZkxCqTV-YecqDkTEMvfl1ZU8J0XJsfVADQGVflt9QYowgpfnVb/s1600/Minions.jpg" height="320" width="204" /></a></div>
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4. I loved <a href="http://erynlynum.com/how-936-pennies-will-forever-change-how-you-parent/" target="_blank">How 936 Pennies Will Forever Change How You Parent, </a>by Eryn Lynum. A wonderful post about the time we are privileged to have raising our children. Eryn was given a mason jar containing 936 pennies. One penny for each week that she has to raise her son. She tells of investing those pennies wisely. How heavy the weight of responsibility represented by the jar and how quickly it empties. Her post is beautiful. It is well worth the time it takes to visit.</div>
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What did you learn?</div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/110/8D8F1ACF21664C267F783793C6B71E1E.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10466502873197484041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9149756520530864241.post-29012572997852997662015-01-27T10:31:00.000-05:002015-01-27T10:50:41.904-05:00What I'm Reading<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8eQwT3hoaVx3EzFfCvL7FD2HxsUFJu6NNDOedXaQAxGL35M5MLuT33J4AULZrARFty3KIT4c5DqM77e3yBU8OWBIce2gfl8-zbS6FPA0AzLbVx8YSSNaFT8BoZnTnsOrVBvLPUV1U9lJN/s1600/no+enjoyment+like+reading.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8eQwT3hoaVx3EzFfCvL7FD2HxsUFJu6NNDOedXaQAxGL35M5MLuT33J4AULZrARFty3KIT4c5DqM77e3yBU8OWBIce2gfl8-zbS6FPA0AzLbVx8YSSNaFT8BoZnTnsOrVBvLPUV1U9lJN/s1600/no+enjoyment+like+reading.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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I was the kid who got excited when the teacher announced it was time for Drop Everything And Read. Here are two books I just finished that I think you will fall into. </div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/045141991X/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=045141991X&linkCode=as2&tag=holi051-20&linkId=EMMBM6MC3SFEHDPO" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheksUlxTYSC7ZVqnNkHSqDhsy57-0XYLtVTabioMcoRmHagBmnwKNRY4toKudIQtCe3AG5wRCyFpY8PrXB_Au7kMkIpELwF5LpNwai747QANuet-Y_Wd2ChLZKtiONlKqvqSoEDTuAXiIk/s1600/Unknown-2.jpeg" /></a></div>
I loved <u><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/045141991X/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=045141991X&linkCode=as2&tag=holi051-20&linkId=EMMBM6MC3SFEHDPO" target="_blank">A Fall of Marigolds</a></u>, by Susan Meissner. A beautiful scarf, passed down through the generations, connects two women who learn that the weight of the world is made bearable by the love we give away....<br />
September 1911. On Ellis Island in New York Harbor, nurse Clara Wood cannot face returning to Manhattan, where the man she loved fell to his death in the Triangle Shirtwaist Fire. Then, while caring for a fevered immigrant whose own loss mirrors hers, she becomes intrigued by a name embroidered onto the scarf he carries…and finds herself caught in a dilemma that compels her to confront the truth about the assumptions she’s made. Will what she learns devastate her or free her?<br />
September 2011. On Manhattan’s Upper West Side, widow Taryn Michaels has convinced herself that she is living fully, working in a charming specialty fabric store and raising her daughter alone. Then a long-lost photograph appears in a national magazine, and she is forced to relive the terrible day her husband died in the collapse of the World Trade Towers…the same day a stranger reached out and saved her. Will a chance reconnection and a century-old scarf open Taryn’s eyes to the larger forces at work in her life?<br />
This was my first experience with Susan Meissner. She is an author I will be reading again.<br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/031033795X/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=031033795X&linkCode=as2&tag=holi051-20&linkId=UZNPLG5AAZ25BCZT" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinFgFpt0hztvsJSu1okA_PCynUhwbUkmLD0AV93Hvfv1RyQ3ouIDR-xVCFYkTETowb-R7GOnKVHGTylMfLtelL4XqrrFLoPos1S_4orc3aQ0H-xEO3NEgyNxxSNsYzouj8Pgq-fhHkePPm/s1600/Unknown-3.jpeg" /></a></div>
<u> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/031033795X/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=031033795X&linkCode=as2&tag=holi051-20&linkId=UZNPLG5AAZ25BCZT" target="_blank">Let's All Be Brave</a>: Living Life with Everything You Have</u>, by Annie Downs is wonderful. I think Annie and I could be friends. Annie Downs shares her journey toward bravery with honesty and humor. Using wonderful stories from her own life, contemporary real-life examples, and fascinating historical and biblical references, Annie encourages readers to grab hold of the brave life that they desperately desire. John Piper said, "Books don't change people; paragraphs do, sometimes even sentences." <u>Let's All Be Brave</u> is full of those sentences.<br />
Annie Downs also wrote, <u><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0310742870/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0310742870&linkCode=as2&tag=holi051-20&linkId=WI7RKIM46VZZM4WK" target="_blank">Speak Love: Making Our Words Matter</a></u>. A book of encouragement to use your words to build people up, not tear them down. To speak love, healing, and hope into peoples lives. It was a blessing to read. It makes you aware that what you say and how you say it are truly important.<br />
Name the last great book you read in the comments. I would love to see your recommendations.<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/110/8D8F1ACF21664C267F783793C6B71E1E.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10466502873197484041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9149756520530864241.post-52277662739216951772015-01-23T09:05:00.003-05:002015-01-23T09:05:28.053-05:00Brave Grace God uses people to accomplish His purposes. Plain, old, ordinary people. Like you and me. Isn't that amazingly scary?<br />
The idea of being used by God was so astounding to Moses that he suggested that God use someone else. Moses thought that his story was one of failure and shame. He hesitated to let God use him. Of course, Pharaoh was reluctant to listen to Moses to let the Israelites go. And now that the Israelites were free, Moses was leading them into even more peril. What did God expect? Moses had killed an Egyptian and then spent forty years on the back side of the desert. God could have picked someone else. <br />
Moses knew that rescuing the people of God was an undertaking fraught with difficulty. <br />
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Then the Lord said to Moses, “Tell the Israelites to turn back and encamp near Pi Hahiroth, between Migdol and the sea. They are to encamp by the sea, directly opposite Baal Zephon. Pharaoh will think, ‘The Israelites are wandering around the land in confusion, hemmed in by the desert.’ And I will harden Pharaoh’s heart, and he will pursue them. But I will gain glory for myself through Pharaoh and all his army, and the Egyptians will know that I am the Lord.” So the Israelites did this. ~Exodus 14:1-4</blockquote>
God deliberately placed the Israelites between the sea and the Egyptian army. Through Moses, God gave them specific, step-by-step instructions. Instructions that were leading them down a path to apparent ruin. Turn around and camp. Camp there. On that particular spot of sand. Right there, before the entrapping sea. Yes, right there in that impossible place.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxPdUa7loJLWiwJtk0UIf66EFlfq5sn9_qohJHCmNTOtqB-VqZOvF-7f_ciy4Y8b2OV3qP_IKO02TFwXZ0IztkMw8nFReArEz9sHWPP24uQOtnslx-tknyCzV8GcyHwFDK6qgeBtWBHrTs/s1600/Moses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxPdUa7loJLWiwJtk0UIf66EFlfq5sn9_qohJHCmNTOtqB-VqZOvF-7f_ciy4Y8b2OV3qP_IKO02TFwXZ0IztkMw8nFReArEz9sHWPP24uQOtnslx-tknyCzV8GcyHwFDK6qgeBtWBHrTs/s1600/Moses.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
The Lord occasionally does the same with us, leading us into hardship, bringing us to a particular point or allowing us to be in a circumstance not of our choosing. Our initial reaction may be panic and alarm. (When I was diagnosed with cancer 5 years ago, I lay on the couch for three days.) God gently reveals the depth of our faith to us. He teaches us wisdom and shows us His ways. And then we learn to lean into Him. To rest securely on the only One who could ever save us anyway. The One who holds us gently in His arms.<br />
Moses and the Israelites learned that the same God who led them in, would lead them out. The problem was not left to Moses. It was God’s dilemma to solve which He chose to do through Moses inadequate hands. Moses stretched out his arm over the sea. The waters parted and the Israelites were brought through to safety.<br />
Sometimes, like Moses, we think that our story is one of shame, failure, and inadequacy. But you know, it doesn’t have to be. Our story can be a story of grace. <br />
It is a brave grace that saves. A grace that fixes broken lives. A grace that heals broken hearts and restores sinners. It is a brave grace that looks beyond what we have done and sees what we can be. God does not count our sin against us. <br />
God exhibits grace and mercy so that we might experience forgiveness and healing. So that, like Moses, we can see that we are capable of being used to further His glory. Thank God for His brave grace.<br />
This post is part of a series on Exodus. I have been joining the Good Morning Girls at <a href="http://womenlivingwell.org/" target="_blank">Women Living Well. </a> My other Exodus posts may be found here.<br />
Exodus 1-5 <a href="http://holimess.blogspot.com/2015/01/burning-bush.html" target="_blank">The Burning Bush </a><br />
Exodus 6-10 <a href="http://holimess.blogspot.com/2015/01/exodus.html" target="_blank">Great Lengths</a><br />
This weeks assignment Exodus, chapters 16-20.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGfn1gd_FiDRtrW3Hpchb_aN7Jc2EPmj9n-Ec12pKSsjCFcvhxKpqRDilR4v6v2IA-BtzlG5peH6LY01Cj1r8WJdZZ5OtIocBgY1iSmr6pMpqFCmm21ue0eOsQdyzvTIr-9qMIDbt7g_qP/s1600/Announcing-The-Book-of-Exodus-300x239.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGfn1gd_FiDRtrW3Hpchb_aN7Jc2EPmj9n-Ec12pKSsjCFcvhxKpqRDilR4v6v2IA-BtzlG5peH6LY01Cj1r8WJdZZ5OtIocBgY1iSmr6pMpqFCmm21ue0eOsQdyzvTIr-9qMIDbt7g_qP/s1600/Announcing-The-Book-of-Exodus-300x239.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10466502873197484041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9149756520530864241.post-10984848201518906982015-01-20T09:26:00.002-05:002015-01-20T12:12:59.796-05:00Read Books<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZXG4cg-W6ACGOq8v-O9RVQ2Z61vlPXOr2usLKcwgonwH_sKo7ty8zK_za5vRDNPTEhVsih8xZ-cSkdDpTjJa-IlbZcLmmEl7PQi8maYTdOJc8yyapFr4ibXGMvqWVntRSvbjXxzHfClz0/s1600/boots.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZXG4cg-W6ACGOq8v-O9RVQ2Z61vlPXOr2usLKcwgonwH_sKo7ty8zK_za5vRDNPTEhVsih8xZ-cSkdDpTjJa-IlbZcLmmEl7PQi8maYTdOJc8yyapFr4ibXGMvqWVntRSvbjXxzHfClz0/s1600/boots.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
On these cold January days there is nothing like a warm fire, a cup of tea, and a great book.<br />
So far in January, I have read:<br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1476746583/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1476746583&linkCode=as2&tag=holi051-20&linkId=3BTKGO2CAUFMGLNM" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhatZAyaWVFzV7o_tl1JwSZZeil1tCa7dhMYYBEtGhJEunLELtLzzhxEtGJuSxwV-2hH8_Df98vfyGnbkH1mJQvtkK3k_IOjk9WFyzvn0jH1WMaoiDaJFWlLe5xpE9FPq0n3KWg6UKHYjeV/s1600/Unknown.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1476746583/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1476746583&linkCode=as2&tag=holi051-20&linkId=3BTKGO2CAUFMGLNM" target="_blank"><u>All the Light We cannot See</u>,</a> by Anthony Doerr : I really enjoyed the way Doerr shared this story through a blind Parisian girl and a German orphan. The writing is beautiful and the characters are memorable.<br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0062361007/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0062361007&linkCode=as2&tag=holi051-20&linkId=VKZZ34ES4OZA6P3Z" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga58YU23p_HXvFG_4yIcSqErv9LTyLVToFr8qk1ffH2HVKyT8HCvXfrSwtCK0WwEOq0rwhI3PmGq_qUrHaisuSd98eYI8YPtQUHWy4mSmAHyiZj7vAO4yLPxLaoa8XrGCeXA8LX_VdnlnZ/s1600/Unknown-1.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<u><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0062361007/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0062361007&linkCode=as2&tag=holi051-20&linkId=VKZZ34ES4OZA6P3Z" target="_blank">Sweet Water</a></u>, by Christina Baker Kline: Reading this with our libraries Book Club. Sweet Water was a first novel. It was good, but wasn't as satisfying a read as <u><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0061950726/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0061950726&linkCode=as2&tag=holi051-20&linkId=35MAI3KDINHZGN5R" target="_blank">Orphan Train</a>, </u>which was excellent. <br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0984009647/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0984009647&linkCode=as2&tag=holi051-20&linkId=QYCSHWE6IMWWDYQ7" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSJKIBCjXn6ygCk6LQx5IGQjAiOXkpZ90cPYRkXQLXILFMWr1coA51luTCxaFjfY1AxYMoWFjbKJY8MCeFcLk49GX88L6yjaPtJANPk-CKXSvTKfElZj7DaIDYNIW-l6gw2QuauFoSkV_G/s1600/little_changes_300-cart-high-res-e1411737294215-210x300.png" /></a></div>
<a href="http://holimess.blogspot.com/2015/01/little-changes-tales-of-home-eco-momics.html" target="_blank">Little Changes - Tales of a Reluctant Home Economics Pioneer, by Kristi Marsh</a>: Little Changes blew me away. <br />
What are you reading?<br />
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This post contains affiliate links. The opinions are my own.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaVD5zhoJi2Ogv0T-KC_NgM6iVSynxJqpc6s4n46zisyuRVllGUvKb6oyRa4yf_ORu1bfcLCh2xAJ3qacRHTAGto7cd7xZuOi8ROlyCjNCaxHT5tRIFWtY1EU0WIZEze9bMUL4UUTt08bK/s1600/Minions.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaVD5zhoJi2Ogv0T-KC_NgM6iVSynxJqpc6s4n46zisyuRVllGUvKb6oyRa4yf_ORu1bfcLCh2xAJ3qacRHTAGto7cd7xZuOi8ROlyCjNCaxHT5tRIFWtY1EU0WIZEze9bMUL4UUTt08bK/s1600/Minions.jpg" height="640" width="409" /></a></div>
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Patty used a box mix, frosting which she colored blue and black, and Twinkies! She had some edible google eyes left over from another baking project, so she incorporated them, too. The Twinkies were cut in half and set on the blue frosting. <br />
We brought these to a church potluck and they were really a hit, especially with the younger crowd!<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/110/8D8F1ACF21664C267F783793C6B71E1E.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10466502873197484041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9149756520530864241.post-11707439331784379232015-01-19T00:30:00.000-05:002015-01-19T06:33:04.497-05:00What I Wish I Knew BEFORE I had Cancer I thought cancer happened to people who made unhealthy life style decisions (like smoking), or had unfortunate environmental exposure through a toxic waste dump in their neighborhood or even who had a family history. But did you know that one in two men and one in three woman will be diagnosed with cancer? And, it's not just cancer. There are dramatic rises in autism, adhd, fertility issues, asthma, auto-immune diseases, and allergies.<br />
I thought cancer wouldn't happen to me. I exercise, eat fairly well, and have regular screenings. I smoked for all of one month in high school. My alcohol intake amounts to maybe five glasses of wine a YEAR. I live in the 'burbs, think white picket fences and farms in my town.<br />
I may never know what caused my cancer, but I now suspect that a tipping point was reached. <br />
I am appalled at what I have recently learned. I trusted the government to regulate and make companies put safe products on the supermarket shelves. We live in a country that has rules and regulations for everything. Boy, was I wrong. The shampoos, baby lotion, sunscreen, and soaps that I trusted and used on my family contained known carcinogens. And I bet that YOURS DO, TOO.<br />
The last time Congress passed a law on cosmetics safety was in 1938. Since then, we’ve learned a lot from the scientific community about the harmful impacts of ingredients commonly used in the cosmetics industry. Meanwhile, other countries have taken significant steps to protect their residents from toxic chemicals in consumer products. The European Union, for example, has restricted over 1,400 cosmetics ingredients, whereas the United States has only taken action on 11. Yes, that is eleven!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR4O0KoNFxhfU95k4EUAyylK5twx8LROzK0Osa0cKzJ0EawUrsOwcssmD3pR3_RxQzOwupyrbMXXABCwLo8AYHb9Zzdu7KSbWFRZ2Dcbo2NYoHPdv0rCcmr2Tls40MRlg9fM5jP8cSp_g1/s1600/baby+face.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR4O0KoNFxhfU95k4EUAyylK5twx8LROzK0Osa0cKzJ0EawUrsOwcssmD3pR3_RxQzOwupyrbMXXABCwLo8AYHb9Zzdu7KSbWFRZ2Dcbo2NYoHPdv0rCcmr2Tls40MRlg9fM5jP8cSp_g1/s1600/baby+face.jpg" height="307" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="http://ideas.time.com/2012/08/22/the-real-lesson-of-formaldehyde-in-baby-shampoo/" target="_blank">Johnson's Baby Shampoo is one example of a product that we all recognize.</a> Every mother can identify its scent. I have always thought that there are few things better than holding a freshly bathed baby in your arms and inhaling the fresh clean aroma of baby shampoo from their sweet little scalps. Fifty plus years ago, my mother used it on my brothers and I. When I had children, I tenderly washed them with it. The "Pure and Gentle" wash contained formaldehyde, a known carcinogen. The company is now making a positive move by phasing formaldehyde out of it's formula, claiming that the amount was so small, it didn't really matter.<br />
Except that it DOES matter. My exposure to toxic chemicals started with baby shampoo and then continued with most of the other shampoos, soaps, deodorants, detergents, cosmetics, and cleaning products I have been using since.<br />
Remember, cosmetic and personal care companies can't use over 1,400 toxic ingredients in Europe. So the companies make <b>multiple formulas of the same shampoo</b>. The safer formula for other countries, and the one containing known and probable carcinogens for the US. <b>The personal care industry does know better.</b> I can only guess that it must be more profitable for them. <br />
We can't avoid some exposure to toxins, but we can lower our level of exposure.<br />
We can and must make healthier choices for our families.<br />
Start here:<br />
<ol>
<li>Get the <a href="http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/" target="_blank">Environmental Working Groups Skin Deep</a> FREE app on your phone. They have put the power of information in <b>your</b> hands. When you know what’s in the products you bring into your home and how those chemicals may affect your health and the environment, you can make informed purchasing decisions. Simply scan the barcode of the product into your phone and <a href="http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/users-guide-to-skin-deep/" target="_blank">get ratings for healh concerns</a>: cancer, developmental/reprotoxicity and allergens. It's quick and easy. I put it on my phone and began scanning all the products in our bathrooms. I was unpleasantly suprised. Why buy a product with carcinogens when there is a healthy alternative available at a similar price?</li>
<li>Be informed. A great place to start is by reading <u><a href="http://holimess.blogspot.com/2015/01/little-changes-tales-of-home-eco-momics.html" target="_blank">Little Changes: Tales of A Reluctant Home Eco-nomics Pioneer, by Kristi Marsh.</a></u> An amazing book. You can read <a href="http://holimess.blogspot.com/2015/01/little-changes-tales-of-home-eco-momics.html" target="_blank">my review here</a>. I do have an affiliate link for this book on my sidebar, however, I was not asked or paid to review it and the opinions expressed are my own. </li>
</ol>
Over the next few weeks, I will be sharing about the changes I am making in my home to reduce the levels of toxins my family is exposed to. Have you made any changes to protect your family? What are you doing differently? Let me know in the comments below.<br />
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D9149756520530864241%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D1170743933178437923%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dposts%3BpostNum%3D0%3Bsrc%3Dlink&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F4.bp.blogspot.com%252F-KI066rbW8xE%252FVLltoNfMX1I%252FAAAAAAAAE7s%252FQP5_dZcn_iA%252Fs1600%252Fbaby%25252Bface.jpg%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 324px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D9149756520530864241%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D1170743933178437923%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dposts%3BpostNum%3D0%3Bsrc%3Dlink&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F4.bp.blogspot.com%252F-KI066rbW8xE%252FVLltoNfMX1I%252FAAAAAAAAE7s%252FQP5_dZcn_iA%252Fs1600%252Fbaby%25252Bface.jpg%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 324px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10466502873197484041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9149756520530864241.post-11292650241702560222015-01-18T14:09:00.002-05:002015-01-18T14:09:47.156-05:00Exodus I have been joining the Good Morning Girls at <a href="http://womenlivingwell.org/" target="_blank">Women Living Well </a>in reading the <a href="http://womenlivingwell.org/2015/01/5-characteristics-of-our-almighty-god/" target="_blank">Book of Exodus.</a> Last week I shared about <a href="http://holimess.blogspot.com/2015/01/burning-bush.html" target="_blank">the burning bush</a>. The assignment for this week was to read chapters 6-10. During my reading, I was struck with how big God's plan was and all that He did to reach the Israelites.<br />
In Exodus 6:6-8, God promised the Israelites that He would be their God and that they would be His people. He would save them from the yoke of Egyptian oppression. He would redeem them and then they would be given the land that He had promised to their forefather Abraham. The Israelites would enjoy times of blessing as they walked with and obeyed Him. The message God sent through Moses was, “I will never leave you or forsake you. I Am here.”<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCNVY5omfivtfKnw8bqE14q4DfMYK7c5PgznReADLERu-s-R45qkurSzoJHVlz3Hm3v16rQ1krlGeBxj4cqHnq-b7o6h_DQq3tEfY-Y-0lwZEJrpo2jPTE-Xyw9-W3UkeyuqMJUQ0W5rkZ/s1600/Moses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCNVY5omfivtfKnw8bqE14q4DfMYK7c5PgznReADLERu-s-R45qkurSzoJHVlz3Hm3v16rQ1krlGeBxj4cqHnq-b7o6h_DQq3tEfY-Y-0lwZEJrpo2jPTE-Xyw9-W3UkeyuqMJUQ0W5rkZ/s1600/Moses.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
The Israelites felt alone and forsaken. They were slaves in Egypt. They endured harsh labor. They had to make bricks without enough straw. They witnessed the devastation of the plagues. Egypt had a powerful hold on them.<br />
Even though the people of God felt alone and abandoned, God never left them. They were special to Him. They had value in His eyes. God went through great lengths to restore the Hebrew people and to provide for them and their future descendants. The events in these chapters mark the end of bondage for Israel. The power of Pharaoh to enslave God’s chosen people was forever broken. The Israelites were delivered to live for God. They were free to worship Him and to daily make their choice to follow where He led them.<br />
We, too, are special to God. 1 Corinthians 6:20 tells us that we were bought with a price. God loves us. We are precious to Him. But, like the Hebrew people, there are times when we are shaken and afraid. When God seems far away and distant. When we feel frayed and stretched beyond bearing. When the diagnosis is devastating and the days are both too long and too short at the same time.<br />
Over the years, God has proven Himself faithful. He has been there in the good times and the bad. There were times when He was all I had, and it was enough. <br />
God went through great lengths to restore the Hebrew people, and He went through great lengths to restore you. He will never forsake you. You are graven on His hands.<br />
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<a href="http://womenlivingwell.org/2015/01/5-characteristics-of-our-almighty-god/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR4vFucHzGlIVz6E2NcjulyY4B5UfyEKrM0BvX4fQ3HPghLBBAMZ6kY7d_f1ImOMyS25oOATM3tHzjJnB7WXWF2jLqeKvtw23TgOIN5II-dP3_dQWVgI29v5WJ5GkCn_7mT8w618DWLJyZ/s1600/Announcing-The-Book-of-Exodus-300x239.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D9149756520530864241%23editor&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F2.bp.blogspot.com%252F-lOJB8sGDDNs%252FVLwEGT8BzMI%252FAAAAAAAAE78%252FW_FMEqezeug%252Fs1600%252FMoses.jpg%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 193px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 180px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D9149756520530864241%23editor&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F2.bp.blogspot.com%252F-lOJB8sGDDNs%252FVLwEGT8BzMI%252FAAAAAAAAE78%252FW_FMEqezeug%252Fs1600%252FMoses.jpg%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 193px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 180px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10466502873197484041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9149756520530864241.post-50758289985292607522015-01-13T20:46:00.002-05:002015-01-15T22:25:09.394-05:00Little Changes: Tales of a Home Eco-Nomics Pioneer<div style="text-align: left;">
This book is about one woman's quest to eliminate harmful and toxic chemicals from her life and environment. Like me, Kristi Marsh was diagnosed with breast cancer with three young children at home. While I had just turned 50 when I was diagnosed, Kristi was only 36.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Little-Changes-Reluctant-Eco-Momics-Pioneer/dp/0984009647/ref=as_sl_pc_qf_sp_asin_til?tag=holi051-20&linkCode=w00&linkId=GM3SZSZ2LOHTECLD&creativeASIN=0984009647" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt="Little Changes by Kristi Marsh" class="wp-image-2711 alignnone" src="http://www.choosewiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/little_changes_300-cart-high-res-e1411737294215-210x300.png" height="320" title="little_changes_300 cart high res" width="222" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Little Changes is available in Kindle and Paperback formats. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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While we can't avoid every toxin that is out there, we can greatly reduce the load of toxins that we expose ourselves and our families to. It's easy to place blame on things like tobacco use causing lung cancer, however, we need to shift our thinking and understand that multiple exposures from many different types of chemicals are <b>just as dangerous</b>. </div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
“So many people are reluctant to make changes in their lives because they think it’s going to be expensive or time consuming. But making little changes over time in the products we smother on our skin, foods we devour, and surroundings in which we immerse ourselves, doesn’t have to be difficult." ~Kristi Marsh </blockquote>
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Those little changes make a <b>big difference.</b></div>
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Kristi shares her story and her knowledge in an easy to read, easy to understand manner. There is so much information packed into this book. I will be reading <u>Little Changes</u> again in the near future. </div>
If you're interested (and you SHOULD be) in making better choices that will be healthier for your family, <u>Little Changes</u> is a must.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Nln2zjgltVw" width="480"></iframe><br /></div>
I purchased <u>Little Changes</u> myself and was not paid to review it. I genuinely believe that it contains important information that everyone needs to know. I am an Amazon Affiliate - which means that I may receive a small percentage (think pennies here, folks) should you make a purchase. This does not increase your cost.<br />
Have you read <u>Little Changes</u>? What did you think?<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10466502873197484041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9149756520530864241.post-16047372444917588802015-01-11T08:15:00.001-05:002015-01-11T08:15:48.218-05:00Anniversary, 35 Years<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy 35th Anniversary to my precious husband.<br />
Last July, Pat and I and our younger three children drove south to visit our son, James, and his wife in South Carolina. We left my parents house in Virginia while it was still dark because a hurricane was due to make landfall and travel up the eastern coast. We hoped to drive south of the hurricane. That worked as planned. <br />
We reached that wonderful tourist trap, South of the Border, in time for a much needed rest stop. We wandered around their gift shop and then decided to head across the street to the Waffle House for breakfast. You KNOW you are in the South when you see a Waffle House or a church on every corner.<br />
We piled back out of the car with visions of buttery syrup covered waffles in mind. The five of us walked in. It was July. It was hot. We all had on shorts.<br />
We were greeted by three Waffle House waitresses leaning over the counter. These Southern ladies had eyes for only one person in the crowd.<br />
“OOOWWEE, Sir. You have some <b><i>mighty fine legs</i></b>. Mighty fine.” Pat laughed. The other two ladies giggled appreciatively and continued to goggle at the legs on display.<br />
I thought, “Hello, did you notice the three kids and the WIFE that came in with those mighty fine legs?”<br />
But wait there’s more. The waitress leaned even further over the counter still peering at those mighty fine legs, “Why, those legs should be in a magazine.”<br />
Pat made a leg at his admirers and laughingly wondered what kind of magazine it would be. Then we were escorted to a table and those mighty fine legs were tucked under it. Our waffles were sweeter for teasing Pat.<br />
A marriage is made of a million little shared moments. Those small everyday things. The kiss in the morning. The look across a room. The tender touch. Singing side by side in church. There are moments full of beauty and laughter, shared dinners, campfires, and stars. There are giggles over waffles and syrup and mighty fine legs. Of course there is also, sunburn, Pepto Bismal, bee stings, and trying to get everyone out of the house on time. <br />
Last week, Pat left me standing on line with a grocery cart to retrieve something that we had forgotten in the depths of a big box store. It was crowded. I saw Pat looking for me and I noticed the way his face changed when he found me. He smiled like he hadn’t seen me in days instead of minutes. Those are the treasured moments that make up a marriage.<br />
The relationship a married couple have with each other is the same as the relationship God desires with each of us.<br />
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But now, O Israel, the Lord who created you says: "Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine. When you go through deep waters and great trouble, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown! When you walk through the fires of oppression, you will not be burned up: the flames will not consume you. For I am the Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. ... you are precious to me. You are honored, and I love you. ~ Isaiah 43: 1-4</blockquote>
So, to my dear husband, you are precious to me, and I love you, all the way down to your “mighty fine legs!”<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/110/8D8F1ACF21664C267F783793C6B71E1E.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10466502873197484041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9149756520530864241.post-12308511298641660162015-01-09T08:43:00.001-05:002015-01-19T06:42:27.882-05:00Burning Bush Can you be used like a common little scrubby bush in the desert? God used this unlikely plant to give us an important message.<br />
Moses was eighty years old when he received his big assignment while speaking to a burning bush. Moses had spent forty years in the palace of the Pharaoh, left because he had murdered an Egyptian, and fled into the desert. He then spent another forty years working as a shepherd for his father-in-law.<br />
We pick up the story here:<br />
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Now Moses was tending the flock of Jethro his father-in-law, the priest of Midian, and he led the flock to the far side of the desert and came to Horeb the mountain of God. There the angel of at the Lord appeared to him in flames of fire from within a bush. Moses saw that though the bush was on fire it did not burn up. So Moses thought, “I will fo over and see this strange sight—why the bush does not burn up.” When the Lord saw that he had gone over to look, God called to him from within the bush, “Moses! Moses!” And Moses said, “Here I am.” Do not come any closer, “ God said, “Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground.” ~Exodus 3:1-5</blockquote>
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The miracles of the burning bush assured Moses of the divine presence of God. The bush was burning, but not consumed by the fire. Jehovah God spoke to him from the burning bush. In many ways, <b>we are like that little bush</b>.<br />
The flaming bush was most likely a common scrubby thorn bush native to the area. It was minding it’s own business, just sitting in a remote area of the desert, looking a whole lot like the other little thorn bushes around it. In the scheme of things, it was a very common and very ordinary little bush. It was also unimportant to most everyone in its immediate area of the desert. The bush lifted its leaves and thorns to heaven and anchored its roots deep in the earth. And then God decided to use it, <b>right where it was</b>, in the condition it was in, because God can use anything or anyone for His purpose. This bush was simply available for use. Our God likes to use things and people who are ordinary to let others see the extraordinary contrast of His presence burning within them.<br />
When Moses turned aside to see the burning bush, he saw that it was burning but not burning up. The Lord of the Universe spoke to Moses from the heart of the bush. He was willing to speak through this otherwise insignificant little bush. God will use the foolish things of the world to show us what He wants us to see. <br />
<b>God still uses ordinary people</b> to make His point. God may not ask me to be a Moses. Instead, He may ask me to be a bush that allows God to speak to others through my heart.<br />
God’s presence was in the bush. While the bush appeared to be burning, it was not consumed by the fire. God protected it, not from the fire, bur through the fire. The fire of affliction touches all of us at times. But we can rest assured that <b>God will take us through the fire</b>. The fire will not destroy us, but rather preserve and purify us.<br />
Zecharaiah 2:5 is referring to the city of Jerusalem, but the thought still applies. “And I myself will be a wall of fire around it,” declares the Lord, “and I will be its glory within.”<br />
<b>Will you be a bush burning for God today?</b> Are you available in your corner of at the desert for His use? Or like Moses, has your time in the desert come to an end? Is your preparation complete? Is it time to take off your shoes because you are standing on holy ground?<br />
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<a href="http://womenlivingwell.org/2014/12/january-bible-reading-plan-workbooks-schedule-and-forum-open/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNlyHplCw9F5Rv1ffhHqQ2VT6RNBszi33SIj68Obn2PKwls56fYxn3Y7oRWFjtnYygirOGEYW5w6e0PIVWRD1gm_ItVyvgcwkHtw4xrUh5taPVmfxV4-fG0Zcrw8tFOif33AYvY_prHmhL/s1600/Announcing-The-Book-of-Exodus-300x239.jpg" /></a></div>
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PS: This post was featured at <a href="http://www.create-with-joy.com/2015/01/inspire-me-monday-week-159.html" target="_blank">Inspire Me Monday</a> at <a href="http://www.create-with-joy.com/" target="_blank">Create With Joy!</a> Thanks for stopping by.</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10466502873197484041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9149756520530864241.post-68878381851216300922015-01-08T18:50:00.002-05:002015-01-08T18:50:07.478-05:00My One Little Word for 2015<div style="text-align: center;">
"One little word can light up someone's day. "</div>
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In 2009, I decided not to make any New Year’s Resolutions. Instead, I chose the phrase, “Make room,” to guide me as I set about living the year. In my mind I thought vaguely about decluttering, saying “No,” to tasks that sapped my energy, and focusing on the important, instead of the urgent. God answered my intention with a diagnosis of <a href="http://holimess.blogspot.com/p/i-wear-pink.html" target="_blank">breast cancer</a> and I learned to make room for things that I had never considered as I navigated the murky waters of cancer and emerged on the other side. I was shaken, a bit bedraggled, scarred, and surprisingly whole.<br />
I continued to “make room” in 2010. When 2011 rolled around, I was ready for a new adventure. I signed up for <a href="https://aliedwards.com/shop/classes" target="_blank">One Little Word</a>, a class taught by <a href="https://aliedwards.com/blog" target="_blank">Ali Edwards</a>, and I have been taking it ever since. The class added structure and reflection about each of the words I have chosen to embrace. Each month Ali provides a prompt around your word. Some years, I have been better at doing the prompts than others, and that is okay. Always, I have enjoyed the journey my words have taken me on.<br />
My past words have been: <a href="http://holimess.blogspot.com/2012/01/kindle-afresh-gift-of-god.html" target="_blank">Kindle (2011)</a>, <a href="http://holimess.blogspot.com/p/one-little-word-2012-dwell.html" target="_blank">Dwell (2012)</a>, <a href="http://holimess.blogspot.com/p/one-little-word-2013-believe.html" target="_blank">Believe (2013)</a>, and <a href="http://holimess.blogspot.com/2014/01/deep-water.html" target="_blank">Sail (2014)</a>. Each of these words continues to speak to me and have become part of my life.<br />
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For 2015, I have chosen the word, “Anchor.” An anchor is a source of stability, strength, and security. It can refer to fixing or fastening firmly. <br />
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 50px; letter-spacing: 0px;">anchor</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">noun </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">1.</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">any of several devices, usually of steel, attached to a vessel by a cable and dropped overboard so as to grip the bottom and restrict the vessel's movement</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">2.</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">an object used to hold something else firmly in place: </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">3.</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">a source of stability or security:</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><i>4.</i></span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">a person or thing that can be relied on for support, stability, or security; mainstay:</span><br /><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">verb </span><br /><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">1.</span><br /><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">to hold fast by an anchor.</span><br /><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">2.</span><br /><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">to keep hold or be firmly fixed: <a href="http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/Anchor?s=t" target="_blank">(Source)</a></span></blockquote>
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An anchor travels with its ship to journeys end and then holds the ship securely, not allowing it to be shifted by storms, wind, or waves. This particularly appealed to me as we are planning on moving from the Hudson Valley of New York to a coastal town in South Carolina.</div>
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Hebrews 6:19 says, “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.” The word anchor is used metaphorically to mean, that which supports or keeps one steadfast in the time of trial or of doubt. <br />
An anchor is an emblem of hope. When you are afraid, trust in God, is the anchor that will hold you in safety. He is the Anchor that holds.<br />
<img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/110/8D8F1ACF21664C267F783793C6B71E1E.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /><br />
PS: This is not an affiliate link. I love the <a href="https://aliedwards.com/blog" target="_blank">One Little Word</a> class and think that you would enjoy it as much as I do.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10466502873197484041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9149756520530864241.post-32333190323783520242015-01-04T18:29:00.003-05:002015-01-04T18:31:39.263-05:00One Starry Night and Plan B Embarrassing moment number 4 million seventy-two: Last Sunday, when I tried to share a slide show from our church's One Starry Night event the video refused to play. Some kind of technical difficulty. I told our Pastor in the fellowship hall after the service that regrettably, I had no Plan B. My message for the service was the slide show. It reminded me of a story that Pastor had shared a while back. <br />
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A fictional story is told of a time shortly after Jesus was raised from the dead and returned to heaven. The angel Gabriel was talking with Jesus and congratulating Him on having defeated the devil with His death on the cross, resurrection from the grave. and the salvation of men. Gabriel, an angel with a type A personality, wanted to know what the plan was to announce the salvation of mankind. Gabriel suggested that perhaps they should call out the angel worship team. The heavenly choir could appear in the sky to proclaim the good news to all of the world.<br />
But Jesus responded, “No, Gabriel, my followers are going to tell the world about Me.”<br />
“Your followers!” Gabriel gasped. “Jesus, You can’t be serious!”<br />
“Oh, but I am,” Jesus replied. “I’ve told the ones who believe in me to tell everyone they know abut Me. And then they will tell the people that they know, and on and on, and, well, they’ll get the word out.”<br />
“But Jesus,” Gabriel responded, “You can’t trust them! Look at how they’ve failed! Remember how scared they were when you were arrested? Peter even denied he knew You. And, this is the most important message ever! The people of earth can experience peace with God because of what You did! Shouldn’t we angels tell the news?”<br />
Jesus shook His head firmly. <br />
Gabriel gave it one last try, “But, what if they fail? What’s plan B? Can the angel choir be plan B?”<br />
Slowly, deliberately, Jesus replied, “They must not fail. There is no plan B!”</blockquote>
For two thousand years, people have been telling others about Jesus. About His life and resurrection. About His birth One Starry Night.<br />
So this time, the story was my plan B, and the video once again refused to cooperate. But you can see it here below!<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/110/8D8F1ACF21664C267F783793C6B71E1E.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10466502873197484041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9149756520530864241.post-43394914540901313222014-12-02T09:50:00.000-05:002014-12-02T09:50:01.752-05:00What I Learned in November<div style="text-align: left;">
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<ol>
<li>Once again, SNOW in November! Twice!</li>
<li>Family is fun! Here are five of my six children. I love having the house full!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK14eRxITT1W_ZC0cni1DleQWlfcng9oMAG4Q7ogEDgapxbQK156DSw9KRaYdpvQ5EvnnAjR1ybE-reQJf0emSLSJo8V_xiXjKDXRBSBzaArCCA6ZopuaUVAb-dmDWS_0PftblWnNjpFOb/s1600/family.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK14eRxITT1W_ZC0cni1DleQWlfcng9oMAG4Q7ogEDgapxbQK156DSw9KRaYdpvQ5EvnnAjR1ybE-reQJf0emSLSJo8V_xiXjKDXRBSBzaArCCA6ZopuaUVAb-dmDWS_0PftblWnNjpFOb/s1600/family.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></li>
<li>One of my most popular posts is <a href="http://holimess.blogspot.com/2012/12/blog-post.html" target="_blank">Have You Any Room For Jesus?</a> This post is popular all year, but especially during the month of December when we are more conscious to make room for Jesus in the midst of Christmas preparations.</li>
<li>A few years ago, I wrote an original Christmas Story called <a href="http://holimess.blogspot.com/2011/12/innkeepers-son-christmas-story.html" target="_blank">The Innkeeper's Son</a>. I am often asked to share it. Here it is for you.</li>
<li>One in ten children have difficulty with learning to read. As a special education teacher, I was excited to see <a href="http://www.dyslexiefont.com/" target="_blank">this font</a> designed to help learners with dyslexia become readers. Christian Boer is the graphic designer who developed Dyslexie as a thesis project. It is available free for home use <a href="http://www.dyslexiefont.com/" target="_blank">here</a>.</li>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/110/8D8F1ACF21664C267F783793C6B71E1E.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10466502873197484041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9149756520530864241.post-56981281096455322592014-12-02T07:24:00.001-05:002014-12-02T07:24:14.415-05:00DIY Carrot Clarinet<div style="text-align: center;">
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This man, Linsey Pollak, makes a working clarinet out of a carrot with an electric drill and a saxophone mouth piece. Fun TED talk to watch. <br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/110/8D8F1ACF21664C267F783793C6B71E1E.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10466502873197484041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9149756520530864241.post-83009730087547954332014-11-16T14:51:00.001-05:002014-11-16T14:51:29.832-05:00Talk of the Town<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I don’t watch a lot of TV, but when I do it’s more often the Hallmark channel’s sappy romances than the blood and gore of horror movies. <br />
When I read my Bible, I take a similar path. I like the “Jesus loves you,” scriptures. The ones that tell me I am healed, forgiven, and whole in Jesus. I avoid the messy ones where people are cruel or crazy or killed. So, I know that this is not a scripture that I’ve shared about before and yet this was where I felt led and ironically, I found a “Jesus loves you scripture” that tells about a madman in a graveyard.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Jesus and the disciples arrived on the other side of the sea in the country of the Gerasenes. As Jesus got out of the boat, a madman from the cemetery came up to him. He lived there among the tombs and graves. No one could restrain him—he couldn’t be chained, couldn’t be tied down. He had been tied up many times with chains and ropes, but he broke the chains, snapped the ropes. No one was strong enough to tame him. Night and day he roamed through the graves and the hills, screaming out and slashing himself with sharp stones.<br /> When he saw Jesus a long way off, he ran and bowed in worship before him—then bellowed in protest, “What business do you have, Jesus, Son of the High God, messing with me? I swear to God, don’t give me a hard time!” (Jesus had just commanded the tormenting evil spirit, “Out! Get out of the man!”)<br /> Jesus asked him, “Tell me your name.”<br /> He replied, “My name is Mob. I’m a rioting mob.” Then he desperately begged Jesus not to banish them from the country.<br /> A large herd of pigs was browsing and rooting on a nearby hill. The demons begged him, “Send us to the pigs so we can live in them.” Jesus gave the order. But it was even worse for the pigs than for the man. Crazed, they stampeded over a cliff into the sea and drowned.<br /> Those tending the pigs, scared to death, bolted and told their story in town and country. Everyone wanted to see what had happened. They came up to Jesus and saw the madman sitting there wearing decent clothes and making sense, no longer a walking madhouse of a man.<br /> Those who had seen it told the others what had happened to the demon-possessed man and the pigs. At first they were in awe—and then they were upset, upset over the drowned pigs. They demanded that Jesus leave and not come back.<br /> As Jesus was getting into the boat, the demon-delivered man begged to go along, but Jesus wouldn’t let him. Jesus said, “Go home to your own people. Tell them your story—what the Master did, how he had mercy on you.” The man went back and began to preach in the Ten Towns area about what Jesus had done for him. <b>He was the talk of the town.</b> ~Mark 5:1-20, The Message</blockquote>
The first few verses of Mark 5 describe a man as sad and down trodden as a person could get. He lived in a graveyard. He was naked. He cut himself with sharp objects. Then Jesus’ boat bumped against the shore of his life and he, and his demons, recognized the Son of God immediately. He begged Jesus,”Do not torment me!” This madman’s life was a total disaster and he was afraid that Jesus was about to make it even worse. <br />
When some of us first glimpse Jesus, we have a similar fear. We are afraid of what it will cost to follow Him. Jesus might ask us to give up something of great value. It could cost the approval of friends, or things that we do for fun or pleasure. We might be asked to give some money. We might even be asked to do hard things.<br />
Jesus responds to the man’s pleas by simply asking, “What is your name.?” Anyone else would have defended themselves or left, refusing to make eye contact, to not see the need of this scarred, naked man. But instead, Jesus sent him a message. “You matter to Me.”<br />
Jesus knew exactly how to solve the mystery of this man’s broken life. He sent the demons into a large herd of pigs, who ran squealing into the water and drowned. Then the pig farmers were concerned about the cost of meeting Jesus. Jesus had done something great and wonderful, but they were worried about the pigs. Were they afraid that Jesus would change them, too? <br />
The delivered man clearly had been changed by the grace of God. He recognized that Jesus had touched him at his most unloveable. He was no longer a naked wild man. He pulled on clothes. He was able to hold a conversation. His chains were truly broken and had no power to hold him. <a href="http://www.focusonthefamily.com/lifechallenges/abuse-and-addiction/conquering-cutting-and-other-forms-of-selfinjury/conquering-cutting-and-other-forms-of-selfInjury" target="_blank"><span style="color: #45818e;"><b>He no longer needed to cut himself to feel.</b></span> </a> He was no longer living with the dead in trespasses and sin. He knew that Jesus did not love him because he was charming, attractive, eloquent, or talented; his former self was none of those things. He recognized the depth of his healing. <b>Jesus had delivered him completely.</b><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Have mercy on me, Lord, for I am faint; heal me, Lord, for my bones are in agony.<br />My soul is in deep anguish.<br />Turn, Lord, and deliver me; save me because of your unfailing love.<br />Among the dead no one proclaims your name. <br />Who praises you from the grave?<br /> the Lord has heard my weeping.<br />The Lord has heard my cry for mercy; <br />the Lord accepts my prayer. ~Verse’s from Psalm 6 </blockquote>
When Jesus was about to leave, the man begged Jesus to let him accompany Him. He went from begging Jesus to leave, to begging Jesus to take him with Him. A complete reversal of his former demands. Instead, Jesus sent him home to his family and friends to share the story of what had happened to him when he met Jesus. Restored and whole. Heard and accepted. <b>The talk of the town. </b><br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/110/8D8F1ACF21664C267F783793C6B71E1E.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10466502873197484041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9149756520530864241.post-91068143385381894682014-11-12T07:29:00.000-05:002014-11-12T07:29:06.690-05:00Did You Know?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<ol>
<li>Our church celebrated "Trunk or Treat." Families decorate the trunks of their cars. Children dress in costume and "trick or treat" from trunk to trunk. Neighborhood families and church families come. It is great fun. I put together a "Paper Moon Photo Booth." And by 'paper,' I mean two full pieces of paneling. I'll leave you the picture and post about how we did it, and what we would do differently later this week.</li>
<li> Five of my six children were home for the weekend! So excited. Our oldest, Patrick, flew up to visit from Georgia. Our third son, Brian, drove three hours to visit. Our weekend was filled with friends and family. Exactly the way I like it.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<li>"In sickness and in health." Few people consider sickness and suffering when choosing a person to marry. Kevin A. Thompson tells us to ask <i style="font-weight: bold;">a vital question, </i>one that he asserts is far more important than how this person will look in the morning or what bad habits they might have that have not yet been revealed. <a href="http://familyshare.com/Marriage/the-most-overlooked-characteristic-of-who-you-want-to-marry" target="_blank">The Most Overlooked Characteristic of Who You Want to Marry</a> You want to read this.</li>
<li>National Adoption Month: Four young siblings in separate foster care placements, are hoping that a special someone will hear their plea to be adopted together. See <a href="http://www.kplctv.com/story/27285239/four-siblings-make-their-plea-to-be-adopted-together#.VFwaed6_Pi0.blogger" target="_blank">their plea here.</a> There may be children in your town or city who are looking for someone to love and adopt them. </li>
</ol>
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/110/8D8F1ACF21664C267F783793C6B71E1E.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10466502873197484041noreply@blogger.com0