Peace

Be still and know that I am God.
-Psalm 46:10

Turning toward 2009

David Jeremiah had a great talk this morning about making plans...reminds me not to leave God out of my plans.
http://www.oneplace.com/ministries/Turning_Point/archives.asp?bcd=2008-12-30

Christmas Heavens and Christmas Review

Christmas was wonderful this year. I enjoyed being with Jamie and am thankful for his love and care for me. I also enjoyed being with Jamie's family - We ate, played games, opened presents and simply enjoyed each others' company.

Most importantly however, I am thankful for Jesus' love and care for me. His present to us for all eternity is his Presence. Oh and even much more than that - His grace, mercy, compassion, redemption, resurrection, wisdom, peace...friendship, fellowship, tender care. The list could go on.

Christmas afternoon, Jamie and I were able to go out to the beach. Jamie caught a few Christmas waves and I took a walk, talking with my mom on the phone and praising God -enjoying the sand beneath my toes...it was about 65 degrees! Although it was a little overcast, the heavens burst forth and His glory was in the clouds.

For dinner/dessert Christmas night, we stopped by to see Melinda, Cliff and Lisa. Good fellowship; good friends.

Don't give up your day job!

Well, Christmas is almost here and the festivities at work are winding down. We had an ornament making contest this year and mine was voted, "Sweet and simple...but don't give up your day job!"

Merry Christmas to everyone who is reading this blog. I pray that your heart may be filled with joy. That a reminder of Jesus' birth would bring you peace. We are so blessed that He came down to earth, in the form of a little infant baby, to save us all. I thank God everyday for rescuing me.

May God's richest blessings abound in your life this season and always. Peace and love. Amen.

Peace at Christmas

Last night I had a really nice evening with my family, celebrating the season and just enjoying being together. Maybe I enjoyed it so much because I personally was at peace and made an effort to be a "peacemaker." I believe the Lord really spoke to my heart to be this way last night. Although I have easily let strife and old hurts and disappointments get in the way of how I engage with my family, I really felt like the Lord said to me, "Lay that down. Forgive. Let go." And I did --and the evening was great.

Interestingly, in God's economy, here are the words of Mary Whelchel today, a Christian teacher who I often tune in to hear on the radio.

"Peacemaker or Peacekeeper?
At this Christmas season we often hear the quote from the Gospel of Luke when the angels declared “Peace on earth, good will to men.” Peace is a frequent topic, and there’s no doubt that most people want to have peace on earth.

But you know, peace is not something that can be declared or legislated. True peace is a heart condition, and each individual has the choice to be at peace with others or not. Just think, if every individual decided to be a peaceful person, to never harm anyone else, to do everything he or she could to promote peace, well, we would have peace on earth.

Obviously you and I have little influence on world peace. But we have great influence on our own environments, whether they are peaceful or not. So, I thought we should get realistic this Christmas week, and talk about peace in our individual worlds. How can we promote peace?

Let me begin by asking: Are you a peacemaker or a peacekeeper? There is a difference, you know. Peacemaking is something every Christian should be very good at doing. We are called to be peacemakers. Jesus said that people who make peace are blessed, and will be called "children of God."

Peacekeepers, on the other hand, often just want peace at any price. That can lead to compromising and lowering standards and going along to get along, just to keep the peace. So, we need to know the difference between being a peacemaker and a peacekeeper.

A peacemaker is one who makes peace where there is none. I'm sure you have many opportunities to make peace, if you recognize them and take advantage of them."

I lift up my eyes

Psalm 121
1 I lift up my eyes to the hills— where does my help come from?

2 My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.
3 He will not let your foot slip— he who watches over you will not slumber;
4 indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.
5 The LORD watches over you— the LORD is your shade at your right hand;
6 the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night.
7 The LORD will keep you from all harm— he will watch over your life;
8 the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.

Joy!

Christmas Cheer

The office homefront - tacky sweaters and all!

Weekend Christmas Gifts

I had a wonderful weekend and received some marvelous pre-Christmas gifts - quality time with people that I love. I spent time with Jamie and his family, celebrating the season. I spent time with Melinda, my best friend, and connecting with my sisters over the phone. Other weekend gifts were many, including that Jamie got to surf and Melinda got to sing! And I got to watch them both do what they love. Jamie also reminded me last night the other important gift to not just celebrate, but embrace this season - Jesus - "the reason for the season."

When Divinity invaded Humanity

Why no room in the inn?
http://www.oneplace.com/ministries/turning_point/

Bread of Life

Last night I was talking with Jamie about the Bread of Life. This morning, this was my Scripture reading:

John 6:24-35

24Once the crowd realized that neither Jesus nor his disciples were there, they got into the boats and went to Capernaum in search of Jesus. 25When they found him on the other side of the lake, they asked him, "Rabbi, when did you get here?"
26Jesus answered, "I tell you the truth, you are looking for me, not because you saw miraculous signs but because you ate the loaves and had your fill. 27Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. On him God the Father has placed his seal of approval."
28Then they asked him, "What must we do to do the works God requires?"
29Jesus answered, "The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent."
30So they asked him, "What miraculous sign then will you give that we may see it and believe you? What will you do? 31Our forefathers ate the manna in the desert; as it is written: 'He gave them bread from heaven to eat."
32Jesus said to them, "I tell you the truth, it is not Moses who has given you the bread from heaven, but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven. 33For the bread of God is he who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world."
34"Sir," they said, "from now on give us this bread."
35Then Jesus declared, "I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty.

Photos!

Jamie and I at my parent's house for Thanksgiving, and my Mom, my sister Michelle and I. Love love love!!!

Dec 1 - Preparation for Christmas

The Son of Man came, to give his life a ransom for many. - Matthew 20:28

Advent: A time to reflect and remember who God is and why Jesus came. I am looking forward to preparing for this special season. I am thankful that my church provided me with some Advent readings and was excited to hear Dr. David Jeremiah's sermon series this morning, which he is doing in preparation for Christmas. Here it is - it is going to be a great series:
http://www.oneplace.com/ministries/Turning_Point/archives.asp?bcd=2008-12-1

God's Creation:
I never cease to be amazed at His creation and how he uses it to reveal more about who he is. Last night watching Chariot's of Fire I am always moved by the scene of the runners on the shores of England, plodding through the beach and being splattered by the sand and sea. Man delighting in the vigor of his body, which is God's creation, reveling in hopes, and enjoying the beauty of his surroundings. As Eric Liddell put it, he marveled at the "heather on the hills" of Scotland. The natural beauty, only a small part of this great story of two runners, of God's purpose in man. That our struggle is in vain if it is without Him. Yet, that ultimate grace wins.

Be glad and merry today in Him.

Thankful heart

I have much to be thankful for this Thanksgiving. A wonderful new man in my life, a great job, a good solid family, friends who love me and a Savior who is constantly working on me, pruning me and who is bringing new experiences and overflowing blessings into my life everyday. I couldn't ask for more and I marvel at His care and His handiwork. He is awesome. He has created awesome things.

I encourage whoever reads this to also be thankful today, even for the small things. It is by His grace that we have been saved, and he encourages us to clothe ourselves with thanksgiving.

1Thessalonians 5
16Be joyful always; 17pray continually; 18give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.

Colossians 3
15Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. 17And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Glen's Account - Great SUP Afternoon

Today Jamie,Jessica, Karen and I went for a Sunday afternoon paddle in Broad Creek. We left from Shelter Cove Marina about noon:30 and paddled around Disney Resort to the basin where four boats were fishing for reds and trout. Jamie and I brought our poles on the paddle so we casted a few lures. Not too long before Jamie hooked on to a nice 12-13 inch trout using his mini 3ft rod w/ 4# test line. Several casts later I hooked into a trout that measured 17 inches. Jamie and I could of fished all day.. Jessica and Karen paddled back and forth doing laps as we fished. Deciding to explore, the sun beat down on a cloudless afternoon in the 55'f temp. Water temp a bit lower. We paddled over to the Long Cove area and paddled through some back creeks seeing the local wild life of birds doing their thing. Discovering a new place to paddle the tide started coming in and the sun lowered in the western sky. The shadows became longer and the colors of the marsh became vivid and crisp with cool Autumn colors. The air temp started dropping so we headed back for the hot tub. Not only was it a beautiful day paddling but I was privileged to spend my afternoon with a few of my closest friends; Jamie,
Jessica and Karen.

Cannot be shaken

Hebrews 12: 28-29

28 Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, 29 for our "God is a consuming fire."

Even at night

I love the Lord's Word. It even instructs me at night!
My hear rejoices in Him!
I will praise him in the morning and in the evening.
He makes my heart secure.

Psalm 16
1 Keep me safe, O God, for in you I take refuge. 2 I said to the LORD, "You are my Lord; apart from you I have no good thing." 3 As for the saints who are in the land, they are the glorious ones in whom is all my delight. 4 The sorrows of those will increase who run after other gods. I will not pour out their libations of blood or take up their names on my lips. 5 LORD, you have assigned me my portion and my cup; you have made my lot secure. 6 The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance. 7 I will praise the LORD, who counsels me; even at night my heart instructs me. 8 I have set the LORD always before me. Because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken. 9 Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure, 10 because you will not abandon me to the grave, nor will you let your Holy One see decay. 11 You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.

Do not worry - Trust!

Do Not Worry

25"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? 26Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?
28"And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? 31So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

That I would remember daily

Ephesians 2
By Grace Through Faith
1 And you He made alive, who were dead in trespasses and sins, 2 in which you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience, 3 among whom also we all once conducted ourselves in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, just as the others.4 But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, 5 even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), 6 and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, 7 that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.

Philippians 1
Greeting
1 Paul and Timothy, bondservants of Jesus Christ,To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, with the bishops and deacons: 2 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Thankfulness and Prayer
3 I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, 4 always in every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy, 5 for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now, 6 being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ; 7 just as it is right for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart, inasmuch as both in my chains and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, you all are partakers with me of grace. 8 For God is my witness, how greatly I long for you all with the affection of Jesus Christ. 9 And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment, 10 that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ, 11 being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.

Kitten Massage

Relieve pain.Massage stimulates the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers, to alleviate the soreness, aches, and pains associated with everything from chronic conditions such as arthritis to general joint and muscle pain.
Improve circulation.The rubbing and kneading motions of massage can increase blood flow throughout the body, with many benefits including reducing heart rate, lowering blood pressure, and relaxing muscles.
Enhance immune system.Some studies show that massage stimulates an increase in the number of cells in the body that help protect us against illness and disease.
Rehabilitate.Whether you're recovering from surgery or an injury, massage can reduce swelling, relieve muscle aches and stiffness, and improve range of motion to help you get back on your feet.
Reduce stress.Not only does massage feel good, but it relaxes your body and your mind, fostering reduced anxiety and a general sense of well-being.

Amen

I had a beautiful weekend. Full of love and amazement. I am truly blessed and am so grateful for how much the Lord loves me and how much he loves those I love!
I am marveled by his grace. I praise him for the beauty he has created. Yesterday was amazing to bundle up on the beach in love. The majesty of His creation. The love I feel.
The joy of fellowship with friends and family. The reassurance I felt. The arms of strength. The power of His life.

Amen.

I am blessed

I am blessed by the Lord today. Lord, you are wonderful. Thank you for your blessings and showering me with your love.

I praise the Lord this morning for His salvation...for his relentless pursuit of all of us! We are his sheep, the sheep of his pasture.

Psalm 100
A psalm. For giving thanks.

1 Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth.
2 Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.
3 Know that the LORD is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.
5 For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.

Psalm 126:2-3
2 Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, "The LORD has done great things for them."
3 The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.

Psalm 23
A psalm of David.
1 The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters,
3 he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
6 Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

Bible study with the gals

Bible Study - lots and lots to digest, but here's just a snipet-

Galatians 5
22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. 25Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. 26Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.

I desire to be daily 'in step' with the Spirit. I pray for more fruit! I pray I will be fruity!! - heehee!

I am humbled by my own areas that are lacking. I pray for God's grace and mercy when I fail...that I will live according to His grace, not by my strength or might, but by His Spirit within me. That I would trust Him completely, bar none. (and have peace) That I would let go and let God (patience). That joy would be anew. That the fruit would be succulent, tasty, ripe, juicy, zingy! - and fresh.

Shrimpin' on Saturday Night

So I had my first real taste of shrimping in the Low Country on Saturday night. Jamie was gracious enough to take me out with he and Rex for an evening of trying to catch some big ones! Well, the night was all set to be just perfect: the wind died down, the evening wasn't too too cold and Jamie and Rex had prepared some great bait. We put the poles out in a nice neat straight line, just like a good fisherman would do. And then we waited. But not too long. We were actually scouting out the other fisherman to see when they would start casting their nets.

Jamie set me up to be the little semi-active participant. I made my job bailing water out of the boat when needed and smiling and cheering the guys on. Rex made a valiant attempt the whole time to cast the nets as we passed by the poles. Jamie did a good job of driving the boat and not dumping Rex into the water.

However, as the hours grew longer, it was apparent that the shrimp weren't running as we had all hoped. Rex would pull in the nets, one shrimp at a time. We sadly had a low shrimp turnout --the shrmp just didn't realize that there was a big bait ball party going on!!...the shrimp really missed out!! So, after about 5 hours at about 9pm (we had started at 4pm) Jamie called the last pass for the night and we headed in.

For my part, I enjoyed the experience for what it was - good company and the stars were all starry and the half moon was shining bright. The water became a nice quiet calm when we pulled into the dock close to 10pm. I am thankful for the experience, even with the lower catch (again, the shrimp really missed out on the party!) And, I didn't freeze my tush off too much.

On Sunday, the eating was delicious and I am thankful for the hands who worked diligently on the boat to prepare us for the adventure. (And those same diligent hands went out the following day and caught more fish for the eating!)

Here are more pics!

Jazz Music

There is something about jazz music that makes me happy. It makes me want to have fun. I listen to Savannah State University's college radio station and it just puts me in a great mood. It makes me want to move and groove...makes me want to swing and dance.

Speaking of music, tonight was my best friend Melinda's birthday. Melinda was a music major in college and so often if I think of particular genres of music, I think of her. Especially Broadway. Anyhoo, I hope she enjoyed our company tonight....glad to be with her and am thankful for her.

Tonight, in addition to listening to great music I also have the pleasure of Elsie curled up in my lap. I have a very finnicky cat, and although I love her, at times she can drive me batty. But, tonight is a rare occassion when she is content to just sit. (Maybe it is because I smell nice after having taken a bath.)

Well, that's it...now more piano, drums and sax!

Silence is golden

I had several wonderful experiences last night. One being that I hadn't taken just a simple walk in quite awhile. I have been doing all of this running that I hadn't really just walked. It was heavenly...listening to the rustle of the wind in the trees and the quiet hum of the birds and tree frogs. The moon came out (I finished around 6:45pm) and things were fairly still. I had time for my body to relax in the walk, for my muscles to be stretched, and for my mind and heart to talk to the Lord.
---That lead to an evening of joy in many other ways. Of listening, of sharing of responding and of gentle silences.

Psalm 27:1
The LORD is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid?

Am happy for so many

I am happy for so many in this country and around the world today. I personally shed tears of joy and awe this morning as I watched the election recap. Paul said in his letter to the Galatians almost 2000 years ago,
"There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." - Galatians 3:28

Beer, Beauty and Praise

Proverbs 31
Sayings of King Lemuel
1 The sayings of King Lemuel—an oracle his mother taught him:
2 "O my son, O son of my womb, O son of my vows,
3 do not spend your strength on women, your vigor on those who ruin kings.
4 "It is not for kings, O Lemuel— not for kings to drink wine, not for rulers to crave beer,
5 lest they drink and forget what the law decrees, and deprive all the oppressed of their rights.
6 Give beer to those who are perishing, wine to those who are in anguish;
7 let them drink and forget their poverty and remember their misery no more.
8 "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute.
9 Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy."

Epilogue: The Wife of Noble Character
10 A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies.
11 Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value.
12 She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life.
13 She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands.
14 She is like the merchant ships, bringing her food from afar.
15 She gets up while it is still dark; she provides food for her family and portions for her servant girls.
16 She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.
17 She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks.
18 She sees that her trading is profitable, and her lamp does not go out at night.
19 In her hand she holds the distaff and grasps the spindle with her fingers.
20 She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy.
21 When it snows, she has no fear for her household; for all of them are clothed in scarlet.
22 She makes coverings for her bed; she is clothed in fine linen and purple.
23 Her husband is respected at the city gate, where he takes his seat among the elders of the land.
24 She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies the merchants with sashes.
25 She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.
26 She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.
27 She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.
28 Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:
29 "Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all."
30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.
31 Give her the reward she has earned, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.

My Weekend Duties with Meeting Planners

For work this past weekend I spent a lot of time hosting meeting planners here on Hilton Head Island in hopes to gain their business. It was beautiful here (thank goodness) on Friday and Saturday and they got to see our beaches plus all the other amenities we offer. Also, in Harbour Town we took them up to the top of the Harbour Town Yacht Club. The picture shows the view from the top.

Signe's Thanksgiving Menu

Signe's Holiday Menu is ready to go! For the best Thanksgiving and Christmas goodies on Hilton Head Island, please check out the menu and order early!
http://signesbakery.com/images/08Signes_Holiday_menu.pdf

Gentleness

from a prayer by Hassan Dehqani-Tafti:
'extinguish within me the feelings of self-importance, and the last stirrings of my ego, and make me gentle'

Last night I ran to my hearts content. I rid myself of the cares and worries of the day (it's been busy at work!) and was able to breathe deeply. Ego? Well, I am not sure if I was egotistic yesterday, but the desire to be self-important always knocks at my door. part of the running last night helped that subside. Also, knowing that at the foot of the Cross, all are equal and we are ONLY made righteous through Him, this helps free me to not strive for that self-importance.

Lord please help me to be gentle today. Pleae help me to remember that loving those around me is more important than getting things done. That smiling and laughter are good medicine for my own soul as well as showing love for others, and that relationships survive best with love, understanding and self-less care.

A prayer

'let my soul be detached, not grasping at anything in this world' - Arch Bichop Hassan Dehqani-Tafti

Pray today with hands open, sign of receiving, not grasping

Today is a new day....this is day that the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it!

Gone are the cares from yesterday...here are the new chances to begin anew.

Morning bell

"Let my soul be listening, be given to the needs of others."

"Create in me a carefree tranquility, a place for every encounter."
- Iranian bishop Hassan Dehqani-Tafti

From morningbell:
"Hello morning bell pray-ers.
Wherever we are in the world, it is so important to remember that we are part of a world-wide Church, and that in some places our sisters and brothers trying to follow in the way of Jesus the Christ are under intense pressures.
So this week the morning bell takes inspiration from one of the Christian communities of the East. We'll work with a prayer by the Iranian bishop Hassan Dehqani-Tafti, who died earlier this year. He was the Anglican Bishop in Iran from 1961 to 1990. He had to spend the last 11 years of that time in exile following a shooting attempt on his life in 1979 in which his wife was wounded. The following year his only son, 24-year-old Bahram, was murdered.
This prayer by Hassan Dehqani-Tafti is a deeply personal prayer born out of struggle, and yet it has a real capacity to become a prayer for many, and something that may change us as we pray it.
pace bene!"
Ian

Weekend on the water

Spent the weekend on the water (at least some of it!) on our beautiful Hilton Head Island paddle surfing again...yeah! One of these days I will get the hang of it. Although I took some spills that left a few bumps and bruises, it was fun regardless. That's me in the background with the hat on...avoiding the "bigger" waves - ( I prefer cruising around at this point....like a standing kayak session.)

The water was actually fairly warm albeit the air temperature made it a little chilly. But thanks to Jamie I had a good wetsuit and was all set. It was actually nice, too, to watch Jamie, Glen and the others surf.

At this point it is equally as fun for me to watch as it is to ride. Also I got to know a few ladies watching with me. It is a nice camaraderie of gals on the beach.
On Sunday I also took a walk on the beach with a good friend...it was a gorgeous afternoon...very sparkly water and lots of sunshine. Calm glistening waters at low tide.
Rounded the weekend off with oysters and trout for dinner...couldn't get much better. I am a blessed gal.

National Spotlight for Signe

My stepmom, Signe, always gains the national spotlight. Here she is again...
http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=4546226n%3fsource=search_video

The Lord's Table - Today

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on thy own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he shall direct thy paths. - Proverbs 3:5-6

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

But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy. Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace. - James 3:17-18

Cast your burden on the LORD, and He shall sustain you;
He shall never permit the righteous to be moved. - Psalm 55:22

When you pass through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee. When thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned, neither shall the flame kindle upon thee. - Isaiah 43:2

Cooler air

The temps are cooler today on the Island. I actually enjoy the cool down, because it signals that time for Fall and Winter activities are on their way. There's always plenty to do on Hilton Head Island, it is just a matter of getting out there and doing it. For instance, I am really looking forward to shrimping on Saturday night. Even though it might be chilly on the water, a good hat, fleece vest and maybe some gloves will probably do the trick to enjoy the outdoors. I have never done night shrimping, so am looking forward to being shown what it's all about. Also, one of these days I need to march over to Pinckney Island to see what fall colors can be seen there. I took some gorgeous photos a few years ago during the fall when the skies were bright royal blue, due to the dry air temps, and the foliage was a marvelous display of reds and golds.

Little kids dresssing up

Here is an adorable picture of my friend Sandy's kids dressing for school for Halloween week. I have lots of mixed thoughts about Halloween, but these girls are just too cute!!!

I love Hilton Head Island

Driving to and from work the past two days, I have been just thinking to myself how much I love Hilton Head. I love the beauty. I love the pace of life. I love the small-ness of it yet it isn't too small. I love the water. I love the beach. I love the marshes and birds. I love the live oaks and tall pines and the palmetto trees. I love the flowers - planted and wild. I love my family and friends. I love Elsie, my cat. I love the people and their love for the betterment of our community.
Life is very, very good here and I am really, really blessed. I could be living in places of the world with little food, little water to drink, no shoes on my feet and worn out clothes. But I am not, I am blessed to live here. I pray that I will always remember this and that I can be used by God in whatever capacity he chooses to serve him to His glory. I pray that I would remember God's blessings and would use what He has given me to serve others. --Amen.

Had a beautiful weekend

Already reminiscing about today and this weekend. It all was beautiful. I enjoyed so much, experienced so much, was welcomed, listened to and cherished so much. Today was just one of the highlights. Started off with an excellent service at church. Greg preached an awesome sermon - it was about servanthood to the Most High. What that means. What it means to be the Lord's own, purchased by His blood.

Next up for the day was an unplanned lunch with my friend Corrie. She's so great...she makes my heart happy. I love her friendship and company.

Then, if the day hadn't started out well enough, it moved onto the glorious afternoon in the sunshine and on the water. Jamie and I went kayaking in Jarvis Creek at the north end of the island, meandering through sanctuaries of marsh grass and flowing tides. Saw lot of birds - sandpipers, egrets, herons. Scurried with the kayaks beneath the boughs of the live oaks along the creek 's edges. Got blown back and forth by the wind...finally I got the hang of paddling with Jamie's helpful and knowledgeable instruction. It became even more fun at that point when I figured out how to do it correctly!

But not only did we kayak along the creek, but we also fished at the same time! I haven't fished like that in years and years and it was so fun. Although I didn't catch anything, I had fun trying. But Jamie caught a beautiful trout! A nice sized one! And I was so proud and so pleased for him. It was a fun 'win' for the day. (Picture tells it all.)

I ended the day by joining my parents for dinner, which I am thankful for. Signe offered to cook and I was able to enjoy their company and also enjoy time with my sister Silja, Eric and my nephew Kaleb.

Thank you Lord for a great day.

Marathon Pics

Just in from the official marathon photographer... thumbnail versions

Concert on Saturday Night for Justice

This Saturday night in Bluffton at Church of the Cross off of Buckwalter Parkway there is going to be a concert at 7pm, that highlights some Christian artists signing music for justice to support Food for the Hungry and the International justice Mission (IJM). If you have never heard of IJM, they are an amazing organization that is rescuing children and women from prostitution around the world, amongst doing other amazing things. Here is the link for the concert - it's $10 to go...http://www.saragroves.com/concerts/artmusicjusticetour/.

Here is the link for IJM...http://www.ijm.org/

Also, just found out about another cool blog spot where you can have daily Christian insights sent to you from a minister (?) in England...here is his description of his "morning bell" - I just signed up myself.

morning bell is a daily resource from Ian helping you to....
find a way into the monastic rhythm of prayer, create still space at the beginning of your day, pray with others around the world, discover the true ground of your being
morning bell is a txt message or email sent to you early each day with some wisdom from the Christian tradition, a prayer practise and meditation ---in tough times we can tend to become inward looking.
This week the morning bell call to prayer is a call to remain generous. I hope you find it helpful. Peace and generosity be yours....
if you want to receive morning bell direct to your phone or email please contact Ian at ian@maybe.org.uk.

Moonlight

Last night was great on the beach ..watching the moon rise was restful and fun.
This morning a friend sent me a link to the following blog...I am looking forward to checking it out... http://www.inthebellyofthebigfish.blogspot.com/

I finished!

"Congratulations from Bank of America for finishing the 2008 Bank of America Chicago Marathon! Your recorded finish time was 5:22:57 and you placed 23746 out of 31,401 finishers." I received this email in my inbox today. Yeah! I have completed what I set out to do and I survived to the end. I am so thankful for all the love and encouragement from family and friends. I am thankful for everyone's generosity with the fundraising and for the other forms of generosity. Thank you to Jesus for carrying me through. Thank you to Jamie for being there for me the whole way. Thank you to Laura for her hospitality. Thank you to Melinda for her care package and moral support. And today, I will celebrate with a massage and good food and a day off at home on Hilton Head, this beautiful place that we live, green from all the rain and with cool, mild temps. Praise to the Lord for He is good, his love endures forever.

Rain on Hilton Head

This afternoon it rained an rained on Hilton Head Island. Last night it was nice to listen to the rain outside the window. It is nice enough weather now on the island to have the windows open at night. Rain is a restful thing. I appreciate the overcast skies and the beckoning to relax. It is so easy these days to be uptight and busy, that God's call to relax, via rain, is very needed.

Family pic...

At my older sister's house this summer...great photo.

Sonshine and more sunshine

A quick note about spending a beautiful day in the sun... and with both a son and the Son. Spent the day enjoying walking on the beach, enjoying a good morning church service, enjoying good food, sharing experiences and watching Jamie kite surf. It turned out to be a splendid afternoon. So glad I didn't work all day.

The water sparkled yet was also a turquoisy blue. Jamie did great on his kiteboard...I am very proud of him. He did it. He conquered his fears, hopefully the Lord helped with that, and he had a blast. He was also fun to watch. So powerful and yet so graceful.

Now sitting back in my office (yes working on a Sunday night) I still feel the sun's glow on my face and its warmth on my forehead. I am thankful for the Lord's creation, the sun and God's Love through the Son. And, I am thankful for spending the day with Jamie.

Waves of energy

I am in the final count down to my marathon. A little more than a week to go. I am trained, I am ready. I just need to coast to the starting line. I am blessed by those who have comforted me and taken care of me along the way. I am thankful to my God. I am prayerful for the race and for the children in Zambia who will have clean water because of this run.

In the next week, I will breathe, relax, eat right, enjoy as much as possible the outdoors without over exertion, relish good company, sleep well and let the stress of work go. I will be on a wave of good energy. Praise be to the Lord. Amen.

(And when I get home from the race I can paddle surf again - yeah!)

Rest

After lots of sun, lots of exertion and being in the elements, a good rest is worth it and full of healing. I am thankful for my day of rest.

Hilton Head Evening run and morning inspiraton

Last night I ran 8 miles as part of my ongoing, near ending, training for my marathon. I left my house at about 6:30 and actually didn't get home until after dark. There were some pleasures along the way...the setting brilliant orange sun and the cool evening Fall breezes that are so fabulous this time of year. As the light faded, I heard the beautiful sounds of the tree frogs and crickets singing and also of the conversations being held between elegant white cranes in their rookery. I passes the rookery twice along the way and the early chatter of the cranes began to settle down as the evening grew.
My only caution was that it actually became so dark (with no moonlight) that I almost tripped on several occasions and almost had a collision with two bicyclists. But thank the Lord I was spared and real injury although my calf got a little tight and it was actually somewhat of a physically difficult run. I think I was tired. Yet, I reached home safely however and also had a chance to breathe in the stars that began to shine.
It was an overall great night, and yet something even better came my way this morning from a new friend. Here it is: http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=8cf08faca5dd9ea45513. More than inspiring.

Ran 20

I ran 20 miles yesterday! It was overcast on Hilton Head...perfect running weather. You can feel Fall in the air.
It was the farthest I have ever run in training for my marathon. It went very well. Just tired at the end.
I am thankful for a good running partner, perfect temperatures, a flat running course and the beautiful scenery along the island, and also to my Lord who gave me strength and inspiration to finish. "Let us fix our eyes on Jesus..."
And then, to top it off, I was thankful afterwards for a long rest on the couch, a good conversation with my best friend, and a wonderful meal prepared for me by a great companion. Amen.

Tonight

Tonight has been about rest and relaxation after a good day's work and a good evening run. Ran 8 miles tonight...getting closer to the end of my marathon training. It was a "short" run...yeah, ha ha, it's funny because not just 2 months ago 8 miles was a "long" run. Well...I guess I am improving and getting stronger. I can see the finish line. Praise Jesus.
But, back to kicking back, sometimes we all just need to kick-it alone. To pull in, to reflect, recharge, and do the things we need to do to rest our minds, hearts, bodies, etc, and just to take care of personal business and get stuff done. I spent 2 hours in front of the tube (while eating dinner...at least that is productive!) watching my favorite show, Project Runway. (Oh I LOVE watching the designs come down the runway...so thrilling, so creative and so interesting!) It is pretty much the only TV show I watch and definitely the only "reality" show I watch. All the others are just, well, I won't say it. But anyhoo...
What does this blog have to do with Hilton Head? Well, not a whole lot except to say that although I live in paradise, life can be just life sometimes and we all have to do the mundane....laundry, vacuuming (of which I am finishing now) cleaning the kitty litter box, etc. In a way I think God thinks the mundane, when looked at correctly, is actually a very spiritual experience...
Ok, well, enough ideology, gonna get back to housework. I'll be listening to one of my radio stations (Air 1--pretty rockin' Christian tunes) and then stretching (this 37 year old bod needs it) and then off to bed. Hallelujah. Another good day - with work, running, cleaning and all. God bless and good night.

Boating and the moon rise

I had an awesome day boating around Hilton Head Island with a wonderful companion. We spent a heavenly afternoon on Sunday cruising the Port Royal Sound and the Intracoastal Waterway. The water was sparkling, the temperature was just right, and the water felt like butter. The conversation and laughter were fun. And the sunset, and subsequent moon rise, which culminated the trip were resplendent. I am so blessed.

Busy-ness

Busy-ness...business...both feel the same to me of late. Lots of work, lots of work outside of work. Nothing necessarily bad. Actually lots of good things. But just a lot.
My solace tonight was my walk on the beach. It was windy and the sky was silvery blue. The waves had lots of white peaks. Messy surf. Walking gave me the ability to breathe. Gave me time to talk to God and work out the thoughts in my head.

Layers of Clouds

Tonight on the beach there were layers of clouds in the sky that reminded me of layers of cake. Signe, my stepmom, as many of you know makes absolutely delicious cakes and today the clouds reminded me of them. They weren't perfectly shaped layers, but something about them was very inviting. The sun was just starting to set so there was also a twinge of pink in the sky. Pink like Jessica's Pink Lemondae Cake. (If you haven't tried it, it is worth it.)
Also tonight there were many shells on the beach, no doubt from all of the wave action from the recent storms.
It was peaceful as always to take a breather from the day's work and step outside. Grateful to see God's handiwork once again.

Golfing on Hilton Head

This past week for work I was able to spend half the day with a film crew from The Golf Channel. We visited Harbour Town Golf Links 18th hole and also Oyster Reef Hole #6. It was a pretty day on Hilton Head and here are some of the snapshots from the day. Roshie and Tighe , the crew, were my fun companions.

Of course, the Harbour Town lighthouse always inspires. And the beauty of the Port Royal Sound from the 6th Hole at Oyster Reef is also captivating. It was mild sunny day, not too hot , (post Labor Day bliss) and it was really relaxing out on the courses. Not a bad day at the office!